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Tastings: September 2007
30 September 2007
87PTS
Wild Pig Syrah 2006
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThis 'shiraz' is actually syrah from the Languedoc area between the Rhône River and Carcassonne. Normally it has been quiet a feral offering but the '06 is an improvement showing less of that wild character. The guts red fruits with an earthy, spicy, licorice bent and good acidity. Needs food, grilled meats or cassoulet would do. Decent value. Prices:| BC | $15.07 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Herder Cabernet Franc Osoyoos Lake Bench 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Herder cabernet franc grows on the warm Osoyoos Lake Bench. It has a sweet fruit entry with plenty of minty leafy cassis flavours with spicy chocolate spicy, cranberry undertones. A bit too leafy for us but some like this style. A fall mushroom dish would no doubt improve the overall flavour of this wine.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Herder Merlot Osoyoos Lake Bench 2005
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest herder merlot is a blend of Cawston, Keremeos fruit from the Similkameen valley with another third coming from Oliver aged in 80 per cent French oak (20 American). Open spicy peppery nose with bits of earth, vanilla and black fruit. The entry is spicy with resiny licorice black fruit and mocha coffee undertones. Good acidity in a Bordelais style with just a few grainy tannins in the finish. Cellar for three to five years for best results. Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Desert Hills Syrah Select 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe new DH syrah has a soft richer coat of aromas and flavours. Look for plenty of black pepper with chocolate, espresso and black cherry on the mid-palate with milk chocolate and roasted meat undertones. The tannins are soft and there a twist of vanilla in the finish. Best with lamb and or rich cheeses.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Fat Bastard Shiraz 2005
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceNot quite as fat as its name the '06 is dense and bits spicy, white pepper on the nose and the palate. Look for a peppery gamey mid-palate with earthy roasted meaty black fruits notes and a touch of acidity poking through the back end. Served with hearty fall dishes. The vines are sourced in the Minervois area near Carcassonne as well as north of Nimes.Prices:| BC | $16.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.05 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.30 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.30 | 750ml |
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29 September 2007
88PTS
Villa Maria Gewurztraminer Private Bin 2006
East Coast, New ZealandPrivate bin is actually made for everyday drinking and it's obvious from its bright floral, peach, and lychee fruit aromas it's ready to drink. The entry is smooth and rich with plenty of mineral, ripe peach and lychee with orange flecks throughout. Fine for spicy food or to serve solo before dinner with appetizers.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Vina Casablanca Nimbus Estate Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileA new listing for Vina Casablanca is the single vineyard sauvignon 'Nimbus Estate'. The nose is aromatic with bits of asparagus (Marlborough) and the citrus minerality of Sancerre. The textures are soft; the flavours offer more lemon and dried herbs with spice and melon. Well done if just a pinch dry in the finish. Cool Casablanca.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Gehringer Brothers Sauvignon Blanc Dry Rock Vineyards 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLook for an aromatic, cooked apple nose with bits of mint and musk melon. Soft and warm on entry with grassy, gooseberry fruit flavours but this is an unremarkable sauvignon that lacks the normal zip and lift of most Gehringer wines.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Castaño Macabeo Chardonnay 2006
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainFloral, honeysuckle, spicy, peach, almond, red apple and honey aromas. Ripe, round, fresh palate that is a tad fat but is well balanced. Mineral, citrus, honey, passion fruit, ginger and apple skin flavours. Fine seafood or turkey wine, has a bit of Albariño like characters. Incredible value. What more can you ask for at this price? A 50/50 blend of macabeo and chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Howling Bluff Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThird year vines are the engine for this stainless steel fermented sauvignon from Naramata. The nose is clean, with plenty of green apple skin and gooseberry notes. Piercing acidity carries the mid-palate with a crisp tangy, slightly herbaceous mouth-watering finish. Best with oysters or goat cheese to tame the acidity. A pretty good start for a wine that is much more serious than its label.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Golden Mile Sauvignon Blanc Luckhurst Family Vineyards 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlmost all sauvignon with 3 per cent sémillon this sauvignon is 60 per cent stainless steel fermented at low temperatures. The remainder was barrel fermented in new French oak but spent only seven weeks in wood. The nose is a mix of weedy/stalky notes with bits of pineapple and mineral. On the palate tight mineral, citrus fruit dominates. This needs food, like oysters or chèvre or a traditional sole meunière.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Hardys Oomoo Shiraz 2005
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaBlack cherry, cedar, plum jam, vanilla, spicy, earthy, barnyard nose with a bit of bacon and coffee. Round, dry, slightly tannic palate but balanced. Earthy, black cherry, bacon, peppery, coffee, vanilla, rootsy flavours. Finish is a bit warm and tart. Solid style to drink now with meat or keep 1-2 years.Prices:| AB | $17.49 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.04 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.74 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Hardys Stamp Series Shiraz - Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaEarthy, tobacco, blueberry, licorice nose with a smoky, shoe leather and briar streak. Soft, round, supple, slightly sweet entry. Spicy, blueberry, black cherry, licorice, tobacco and resin flavours. Very consumer friendly style without too much of an acidic bite.Prices:| BC | $12.49 | 750ml |
| PEI | $11.29 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.39 | 750ml |
| MB | $10.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $11.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
JoieFarm Muscat 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaItalian Muscat is the idea here with its hedonistic sweet aromatic notes. Love the pure grapey flavours here and the perfect acidity. Not a wine for everyone but the curious oenophile will know what to do with this bottle from sipping it solo, to eating Indian cuisine.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
JoieFarm Chardonnay Un-oaked 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThey love aromatics at Joie and it marks the nose of the '06 Un-Oaked Chardonnay that contains about 40 per cent of the aromatic chardonnay clone, Musqué. Look for plenty of green apple fruit with bits of sour grapefruit and oily mineral, flavours. Good effort.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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28 September 2007
86PTS
Trapiche Reserve Malbec 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaTrapiche always has a soft, easy-sipping style and this malbec is no different. There plenty of plummy fruit and spice in a ripe setting. The tannins are soft and the finish is clean with just a whiff of those characteristic meaty, savoury notes. Fine value in an everyday red.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.75 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Rabl Grüner Veltliner Spiegel 2006
Kamptal, Niederösterreich, Weinland Österreich, AustriaMineral, floral, citrus, green apple, grapefruit nose with a grassy edge. Crisp, round, elegant palate, just a hint of sweetness. Grapefruit, butter, mineral, spicy, apple skin flavours. Good ripeness and freshness, just a bit more acidity than the Kafenberg, and not quite as fat. Good solid food or you can sip it solo. Good value.Prices:| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.95 | 750ml |
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27 September 2007
85PTS
Argento Malbec 2006
Mendoza, ArgentinaThe '06 Argento exhibits bright floral notes and red fruit aromas. On the palate the wine is bright an lively with good acidity and spicy blackberry/brambleberry notes. The finish is clean and fruity. Good value.Prices:| ON | $10.05 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Bodega Lurton Malbec 2006
Medrano, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaLurton manages to suppress the savoury earthy characters of Mendoza, pushing them into the background in favour of a slightly cleaner, fruiter style. Look for more black fruit flavours with a smooth, supple palate. It has impressive texture and weight and should be a big hit for the price.Prices:| BC | $13.49 | 750ml |
| NS | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.15 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Finca Flichman Misterio Malbec Oak Aged 2006
Mendoza, ArgentinaIt's difficult to ignore the Misterio Malbec if you consider what you get for the money. Look for earthy vanilla and dark fruit aromas and flavours. The finish is rustic yet with supple tannins and just a twist of vanilla. A solid mid-week red.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.95 | 750ml |
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25 September 2007
87PTS
Rabl Grüner Veltliner Kaferberg 2006
Kamptal, Niederösterreich, Weinland Österreich, AustriaGreen apple, butter, grapefruit, floral, light mineral and passion fruit nose. Fresh, round, elegant palate with a touch of sweetness. Baked pear, butter, slate, grassy, passion fruit flavours. Good acidity, very ripe and round with a sweet edge. Attractive, food friendly wine and good value.Prices:| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.95 | 750ml |
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23 September 2007
88PTS
Tinhorn Creek Oldfield's Collection Syrah 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThey only made three barrels of the OC 2004 Syrah, the first official vintage and one of those was blended into the OC merlot to increase its density and weight. Like most Okanagan syrah we encounter these young vine reds are usually riper and better tasting their cabernet or merlot kin. It was aged 14 months in new French oak - 42 cases were bottled by hand on May 17, 2006. I like the style, its syrah not shiraz if you know what I mean. Look for youthful, peppery, meaty, syrah fruit reminiscent of the Northern Rhone. No doubt this will improve every vintage out. I'm told this wine is long since sold out.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Miguel Torres Santa Digna Seleccion Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe '06 Reserve is a super fresh statement of citrus, mineral and lime rind with flecks of gooseberry and melon. Light airy and clean on entry the mix of grapefruit and mineral, gooseberries and green apples benefit form no wood. A fun oyster wine but will be just as effective with an array of seafood. Great value. Should be listed across the country.Prices:| ON | $12.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Ping 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Ping is slightly riper than previous versions but still carries a bit of those cranberry and cedar bark notes throughout. The entry is softer now with more mocha chocolate vanilla highlights streaked with black cherries. Almost JT-like. You can drink this now but I would wait a year or two. Pricey for what you get.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Chardonnay 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaConsistently the best wine made at SYL is this chardonnay. It 100 barrel-fermented but now only 25 of the oak is new, leaving the fruit a chance to express itself. Look for a lovely lees character with floral, lemon, honey, buttery vanilla aromas. On the palate it's lively and fresh with buttery, baked apple, nutty, fruit flecked with citrus and smoky honey notes. Impressive texture and length.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Pinot 3 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNow under screwcap the '06 the pinot trio of blanc, gris and noir sees no oak and no malolactic fermentation leaving it bright and fresh. The nose is a mix of floral, mineral, nectarine notes with a hint of strawberry. On the palate it mixes melon and honey notes with a touch of sweetness in the finish. Solid if a bit expensive for the quality.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Jimmy My Pal 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA pleasant 55/45 mix of chardonnay and pinot gris that gets a bit of oak ageing. The entry is a mix of sweet and sour fruit with vanilla, honey and red apple aromas. The textures are soft and round with more vanilla and baked apple fruit upfront and slightly bitter apple skin finish. Simple.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Pinot Noir 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMuch like the previous edition the wine is pleasant enough but it lacks pinot definition. Soft candied caramel flavours mix with smoky, resiny, cooked black cherry fruit and a dry savoury finish. Simple pinot form a warm site. Disappointing.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Gewurztraminer 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSoft pleasant floral entry with quite a bit of residual sugar. Ripe red apple fruit flavours with bits of litchi. Fairly one dimensional but would be fine to cool down a hot curry dish or a spicy Asian hot pot. Simple sweet gewürztraminer that should be served well-chilled.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
See Ya Later Ranch SYL Brut NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA fine mousse previews a floral, meaty bread dough/brioche nose with nutty lees and peach pit aromas. Crisp, round and fresh on entry with baked pear, marzipan, yeasty floral, peach flavours. A nice notch up in complexity for this bubble. Well done.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $21.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $24.00 | 750ml |
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22 September 2007
87PTS
Chateau Bonnet Entre-Deux-Mers 2006
Bordeaux, FranceBonnet was built in the 18th century and has remained in the Andre Lurton family since the end of the 19th century. The vineyard, and the wine, is a blend of 45/45/10 sauvignon blanc / sémillon / muscadelle. The '06 is a delicious rendition with its leesy, mineral, grapefruit nose flecked with passion fruit and gooseberry. The new screwcap finished Bonnet has shed that corky garlic flavour that often knocks down the top 5 per cent of fruit, in affect liberating this white wine. The finish is round and chalky with more gooseberry. A versatile food wine.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.15 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.35 | 750ml |
| NF | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaRich open peppery dried herb nose with bits of licorice and black cherry. Open oaky overtones on entry with fat, supple, savoury black fruit flavours. Look for lots of roasted meaty savoury mushroom hints in the finish. Serious if a touch rustic but this should age gracefully through 2012.Prices:| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Casa Lapostolle Merlot 2005
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileTypically Lapostolle with its floral spicy, thyme/plum, cassis aromas. The attack is warm and generous with soft ripe tannins and peppery, menthol, black fruit flavours with a touch of orange and chocolate. This is the real deal for merlot drinkers at a very attractive price.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.50 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.45 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Santa Rita Triple C 2004
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, floral, cedar, minty, cassis, earthy, cigar, waxy, iodine, peppery, orange peel nose with a coriander and black olive streak. Round, dry, rich and supple with grainy tannins and good grip and concentration. Big cassis, plum, minty, peppery, cedar, olive, vanilla, and coffee flavours with a tobacco and milk chocolate finish. Long, rich, hot but good balance with very good complexity. Maipo mint but not too aggressive. Needs 3-7 years.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $49.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $42.95 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Santa Rita Floresta Apalta Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Apalta Valley, Santa Cruz, Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig black cherry, blackberry, cigar, chocolate, vanilla, leather, black pepper aromas mixed with mint, licorice, smoke and resin. Rich, ripe, round and very supple with smooth grained tannins. Very warm with good acidity. Spicy, peppery, blackberry jam, vanilla, mint and cassis jam with a touch of orange, tobacco and chocolate on the finish. Very good finesse and intensity but finish is a bit too hot and hard. Needs to integrate the oak and tannins over the next 3-5 years.Prices:| BC | $54.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Santa Rita Floresta Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChilePassion fruit, grapefruit rind, mineral, floral, lime, smoky slate aromas. Round, ripe, elegant and fresh palate but broad with a hint of sweetness. Ripe granny smith, passion fruit, grapefruit, jalapeno, mineral flavours with a chalky, nectarine finish. Very good fruit intensity if a tad warm.Prices:| AB | $19.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Casa Real 2003
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileCoffee, minty, cassis jam, peppery, spicy, tobacco, licorice, plum aromas with a streak of cedar, iodine and saddle leather. Dry, round, elegant, slightly tannic palate with good grip and finesse. Lots of cassis, chocolate, peppery, black olive, saddle leather, tobacco, plum and vanilla flavours with a touch of cedar. Fine balance and finesse, very drinkable now but needs 2-4 years. Despite being a lighter vintage, this is showing well in a more Bordelais style.Prices:| BC | $89.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $50.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Medalla Real 2004
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileMinty, chocolate, tobacco leaf, cassis, peppery, menthol, green olive aromas. Round, supple, warm and full with plush, grainy tannins. Big cassis jam, sappy, menthol, black cherry, chocolate, tobacco and leather flavours with vanilla and iodine on the finish. Hot finish with a velvety texture, has great balance despite some green fruit characters. Good value, can age 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.29 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.60 | 750ml |
| NS | $22.60 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Highland Estate Trace Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesVery spicy, cassis, floral, black cherry, smoky leather, chocolate, smoky aromas. Full, rich, somewhat tannic, tighter palate. Peppery, chocolate, cassis jam, blackberry, licorice, smoky leather, and tobacco flavours. Good acidity, fruit and structure but hot. Needs 3-5 years.Prices:| BC | $78.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $49.95 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Highland Estate Hawkeye Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeppery, smoky, resin, olive, cassis jam, spicy, blackberry, sweaty leather, tobacco aromas. Round, dry, supple but slightly tannic palate. Peppery, smoky, resin, blackberry, licorice, vanilla, mineral, and tobacco flavours. Good concentration and finesse but hot on the finish. Needs 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $83.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $65.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Grand Reserve 2005
Monterey - Santa Barbara, California, United StatesFloral, peach, citrus, spicy, vanilla, baked apple nose with a touch of pineapple. Round, rich, elegant and slightly oily with a touch of bitterness. Citrus, green apple skin, vanilla, leesy, peach pit and mango flavours. Very good balance, just a slight hollowness and needs a touch more acidity.Prices:| BC | $32.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Santa Rita Reserva Pinot Noir 2006
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe first 100% Leyda bottling from 8 and 9 year-old vines. Look for an enticing spicy, licorice, black cherry, rootsy, smoky nose with vanilla, orange peel and floral aromas. Ripe, round, supple and fresh and all with elegance. There is fine acidity balance and the alcohol is managed quite well. Big black cherry jam, orange peel, compost, celery salt, licorice, and caraway flavours. Very New World but very pinot. Good concentration and finish with great fruit. The is terrific value pinot for current drinking. Buy this one by the case. Coming in November 2007.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Santa Rita Pehuén Carmenère 2004
Apalta Valley, Santa Cruz, Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChilePehuén is new "super carmenère" from Santa Rita made by long time winemaker Andrés Ilabaca from 60+ year old vines. The 95/5 split of carmenère and cabernet mirrors its origin Apalta, Colchagua / Alto Jahuel, Maipo Valley. The name derives from the Mapuche name for the local Araucaria Araucana tree (or Monkey Puzzle tree variety). It spends 20 months in new American and French oak barrels and another 12 months in bottle before release. Look for rich earthy, tobacco leaf and chocolate espresso aromas flecked with black olive, pepper and minty. The palate is round and supple, almost sweet with plenty of fine grained tannins. On the palate it's full of smoky, coffee, cassis, black olive fruit with spicy, chocolate/mocha flavours. A suave if oaky style of what is a well-made carmenère.Prices:| CDN | $60.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Pinot Noir Vintner's Reserve 2005
California, United StatesAppealing spicy smoky cola nose with tea and black cherry notes. Silky full rich entry with more vanilla cola black cherry fruit flavours with a spicy, smoky licorice aftertaste. Well managed cool style pinot that should have wide appeal. The fruit for VR pinot is sourced from Monterey, Santa Barbara, Napa and Mendocino counties.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| US | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
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21 September 2007
92PTS
Sequel Syrah 2004
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThis Long Shadows project involves former Stimson Lane head Allan Shoup and former Penfolds (Grange) chief winemaker John Duval. Tobacco, chocolate, vanilla, sausage meat, spicy, white pepper, floral, black cherry jam, licorice, light barnyard aromas with a bacon streak. Rich, ripe, round, elegant but full palate with smooth tannins. Smoky garrigue, black pepper, meaty, spicy, orange peel, black plum, cherry, tobacco, mocha flavours. Fine integration of tannins, oak and fruit with a touch of youthful acidity, alcohol and tannins poking through on the finish. Needs 3-7 years.Prices:| BC | $84.49 | 750ml |
| US | $55.00 | 750ml |
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19 September 2007
88PTS
Quails' Gate Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Family Reserve Chardonnay is made from 100 per cent estate grown fruit and it's all French clones. The FR is aged in only 40 per cent new oak and the dividend is a lively fruit character throughout. Lees stirring and full malolactic fermentation gives the wine a lovely texture to complement its pear and citrus flavours with spicy toasted oak underpinnings. Good now but will age gracefully and improve over the next three years.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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18 September 2007
89PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Portfolio 2005
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLike many Okanagan reds, it is usually the latest edition that is the best and that's certainly the case with the Portfolio 2005, easily the best we've tasted from winemaker David Enns. Burdened early on with the goofy 'cult wine' tag, Portfolio is beginning to spread its wings, shedding some of those green notes and dry tannins for a slightly more expansive palate of ripe cassis and black fruits and better oak integration. A solid effort and getting better each time out.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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17 September 2007
88PTS
Dr. H. Thanisch Riesling Classic 2006
Mosel, GermanyFloral, lime, slate, red apple aromas with a touch of apricot skin. Very delicate, elegant palate, fresh and light with good crisp acidity and a bit of sweetness. Steely, apple, floral, lime, butter flavours. A slightly dryer style (about 1.3% residual) with very good acidity balance at 12% alcohol. Delicious.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Dr. H. Thanisch Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2005
Mosel, GermanyVaseline, slate, apricot, floral, orange, red apple, honey, clove, pineapple aromas. Rich, crisp, elegant but concentrated with great acidity and sugar balance. Juicy apricot, red apple, slate, Vaseline and lime flavours with a bit of pineapple and mango on the finish. Long, good weight at 10% alcohol. Excellent effort.Prices:| BC | $44.80 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Dr. H. Thanisch Berncasteler Doctor Riesling Spatlese 2005
Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, GermanyBig mineral, green apple, slate, smoky, floral, peach pit aromas but a bit closed. Crisp, zesty, juicy, fresh palate. Big mineral, slate, smoky, green apple, lime, guava, honey flavours. Great verve and acidity, very long and taut. Will continue to improve for years. Great effort.Prices:| BC | $62.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Dr. H. Thanisch Berncasteler Doctor Riesling Auslese 2005
Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, GermanyFloral, guava, pineapple, smoky, slate, green apple, lime, light Vaseline aromas. Rich, ripe, fat, full and intense but juicy and crisp with very good acidity. Baked pear, orange, guava, lime, green apple, honey, waxy, creamy flavours. Great finesse and flavour with balance and fine ripeness. Delicious.Prices:| BC | $53.70 | 375ml |
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90PTS
Dr. H. Thanisch Berncasteler Doctor Riesling Kabinett 2005
Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, GermanySlate, mineral, green apple, spicy, pear, lime and floral aromas. Ripe, crisp, fresh and delicate. Green apple, green peach, lime, mineral flavours. Fine delicacy and acidity with a juicy granny smith finish. Needs several years to open but will be very fine.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Mission Hill 2004 Oculus has just been released at a formidable $70. It is the best yet and likely only the start of a series of vintages that will benefit from the most recent round of massive investments the winery. At 74 percent merlot it has the enticing 'drink-me' factor that earlier editions lack along with plenty of cedar cassis and savoury black fruit undertones. It's young and will need time but at this price it should be available for a bit.Prices:| BC | $72.00 | 750ml |
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16 September 2007
90PTS
Almaviva 2004
Puente Alto, Valle del Maipo, ChileCedar bark, cassis, peppery, earthy, barnyard, chocolate, saddle leather nose with a mint, floral note. The palate is dry and elegant with cedar-y tannins. Big cedar bark, cassis, minty, peppery, cherry, olive, floral, mineral flavours with some meaty, Band-Aid on the finish. Elegant with vibrant acidity but the cedar bark character dominates at this point. Needs five years in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $113.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $88.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rubicon Estate Cask Cabernet 2003
Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United StatesCassis, leafy compost, peppery, spicy, coriander, coffee, cedar and vanilla aromas. Dry, elegant, slightly tannic palate with prune, chocolate, peppery, earthy, tobacco, coffee, cedar flavours. Finish is dry and tight with some youthful tannins with a cassis, black olive, cedar finish. Young, needs 2-4 years or steak.Prices:| US | $70.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Rubicon 2003
Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United StatesSpicy, vanilla, chocolate, tobacco, black cherry, pencil lead, earthy, floral nose. Dry, fat, ripe palate with lots of grainy, round tannins. Big cedar, coffee, vanilla, peppery, black cherry, cassis jam, mineral, tobacco, earthy, olive flavours. Very warm with a touch of acidity and good length. Needs 3-5 years to round out but also drinkable young with the smoother tannins.Prices:| US | $115.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Cliff Lede Napa Valley Claret 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesCedar, floral, olive, smoky, peppery, vanilla, tobacco, green olive nose, a bit herbal and green on the edges. Moderately rich, round, full palate with slightly dry, cedar-y tannins. Peppery, floral, blueberry, black cherry, olive, tobacco leaf, cedar, clove flavours. Very buttery, oaky, hot vanilla finish. Needs food to really smooth out the edges.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Cliff Lede Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United StatesFloral, earthy, peppery, black olive, tobacco leaf, black cherry, vanilla, saddle leather, resin aromas. Rich, round, full-bodied, warm palate with good grainy tannins. Chocolate, tobacco, peppery, vanilla, cedar, vanilla, resin, black cherry, cassis flavours. Warm finish but very good intensity and balance. Will improve over the next 2-5 years.Prices:| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $65.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Cliff Lede Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United StatesChocolate, vanilla, black berry, licorice, violet, five spice, tobacco leaf, black olive, spicy, blackberry nose. Rich, round, dry, slightly tannic palate but elegant and full. Big coffee, spicy, peppery, cassis jam, black cherry, vanilla, cedar, menthol, black olive, licorice with some smoky saddle leather, resin and cigar on the finish. Very warm and full but has fine balance. Needs 3-5 years.Prices:| BC | $165.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $161.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Starmont Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesBlack olive, licorice root, cedar, peppery, spicy, clove, smoky vanilla nose with a touch of Band-Aid. Round, dry, slightly tannic palate with some finesse. Peppery, earthy, chocolate, tobacco, compost, black olive, light cassis flavours with some leathery, meaty, cedar flavours on the finish. Solid, needs a year or two or drink now with beef.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 375ml |
| BC | $0.00 | 375ml |
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87PTS
Sandhill Syrah Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is the first Sandhill syrah and it comes in a highly concentrated almost soupy style. There are plenty of peppery meaty resiny flavours flecked with bits of plummy black fruit. The finish is hot as in warm and alcoholic. A bit of a bruiser that is going to require a bit more finesse in the vineyard and the winery to reach higher a level. Best with roasted meats at this point. Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Groth Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesEucalyptus, tobacco, black olive, cherry, cola, cedar aromas with a touch of pepper and coriander. Dry, tight, somewhat lean tannins but balanced extract. Black olive, cassis, tobacco leaf, licorice, resin, vanilla, earthy flavours. A bit lighter, leaner style that needs 2-4 years to round out. A welcomed more food-oriented style from Napa.Prices:| BC | $87.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $73.88 | 750ml |
| MB | $74.81 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Magdalena Toso 33 Barrels Selection 2005
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig floral, spicy, plum, black cherry, savoury, poultry spice, vanilla, peppery, tobacco nose with a slightly port-y note. Rich, round, fresh and elegant with light, grainy tannins. Savoury, spicy, floral, black cherry, plum, mineral, vanilla, poultry spice, cumin flavours. Young but well balanced with good acidity despite the obvious ripeness. A showy, attractive style that should age well over the next 3-5 years.Prices:| BC | $89.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Errazuriz Merlot Estate 2005
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileLeafy, earthy, cedar, sappy, minty cassis nose. Fresh acidity, dry, slightly tannic palate with meaty, leafy, minty, chocolate, cassis flavours and a bit of Band-Aid and prune. Simple, basic red.Prices:| BC | $15.11 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Errazuriz Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2005
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileMinty, sappy, cassis, peppery, spicy, slightly rubbery nose. Round, dry and a bit chunky with some tannins and a bit of acidity. Smoky, leather, chocolate, peppery, spicy, minty cassis flavours with a bit of tobacco leaf and compost on the finish. A bit tannic with dry, cool fruit flavours.Prices:| BC | $15.11 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.41 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.55 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Laroche Mas La Chevaliere Rouge 2003
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceSomewhat cool meaty, menthol, carrot, cassis nose flecked with tobacco leaf. On the palate its round dry and elegant with a tight lean-ish Euro structure. Herbal, olive, cassis, spicy, roasted pepper, mineral, menthol flavours with a fresh, dry, tight finish. Solid but best with food.Prices:| BC | $27.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Wild Rock Merlot 2004
Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New ZealandEarthy, rootsy, gamey, peppery, tobacco aromas. Smooth, round, dry, slightly tart entry with light, cedar-y tannins. Spicy, herbal, cherry, tobacco, dill, and rootsy flavours. Designed for food.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.40 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesEarthy, tobacco, black olive, spicy, floral, coffee, meaty nose. Rich, round, dry palate with a touch of acidity showing and tight tannins. Cassis, cedar, tobacco, earthy, smoky, saddle leather, coffee, vanilla, warm black olive flavours. A bit hot and hard on the finish; needs 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $109.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $94.95 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Matua Valley Bullrush Merlot 2004
Hawkes Bay, North Island, New ZealandSpicy, sweaty saddle, smoky, olive, tobacco leaf, Band-Aid aromas. Soft, supple, dry, elegant but slightly hard palate. Soy, leather, tobacco, prune, cooked cedar, flavours Band-Aid/Brettanomyces with an oaky finish. Just a bit too cool and dirty for the price.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cumulus Rolling Cabernet Merlot 2004
Central Ranges, New South Wales, AustraliaWet compost, earthy, peppery, tobacco leaf, floral nose. Dry, tart, slightly tannic palate with cherry, compost, earthy, cedar, peppery, olive flavours. Definitely cooler style but finish is very warm.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Frontera Merlot 2006
Region del Valle Central, ChileConsistent each year the Frontera merlot is a soft savoury, cedar-scented red with bits of mint, leaf and tobacco. The entry is soft, the tannins supple, the flavour a mix of black cherries, earth and dried leaves. and earthy. Simple straight-up merlot for pizza and burgers. Not bad for $9.Prices:| BC | $8.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.95 | 1000ml |
| AB | $8.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $8.28 | 750ml |
| NF | $8.97 | 750ml |
| NB | $8.83 | 750ml |
| PEI | $10.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sheridan Vineyards Kamiakin 2004
Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington, United Statessomewhat cooked, pruny, coffee, blackberry nose with smoky, peppery, tobacco, dill notes. Dry, round and hot on entry but with dry textures. Cassis, menthol, tobacco leaf, cooked, pruny, herbal flavours. Seems a bit too green and overly mature.Prices:| BC | $31.95 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Merlot 2004
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileSpicy, cedar, sappy, cherry cassis nose with some dill and rubbery, licorice notes. Dry, tart, warm palate with earthy, meaty, cooked carrot, chocolate, bandaid, dill flavours. Not well balanced nor up to the usual standard, fading.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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15 September 2007
94PTS
Domaine Christian Moreau Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceOpen buttery, spicy lees, floral, citrus, baked pear, lemon aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, elegant palate but dry and structured. Juicy with red apple, lemon, pear, nutty lees, butter, honey, floral, vanilla flavours. Great finesse and crispness, more open and juicy than the Valmur but good acidity. Drink now or hold.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $48.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $58.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Domaine Christian Moreau Chablis Grand Cru Valmur 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceMineral, sea shell, flinty, citrus, pear skin, buttery, slightly floral nose but slightly closed at this point. Dry, fresh, crisp but round and delicate. Butter, mineral, chalky, sea shell, green apple, lees, spicy, nutty, pear flavours with a finely delineated acid on the finish to keep the focus. Very fine but young with a buttery finish. A bit more austere and closed than the Les Clos at this point.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $48.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $58.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Domaine Christian Moreau Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon Cuvée Guy Moreau 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceNutty, buttery, spicy, floral, baked pear, citrus, sea shell, green apple skin aromas. Ripe, round, dry but juicy and elegant with leesy, slightly nutty, lemon, pear, apple skin flavours with a touch of nectarine. Finely balanced with finesse, this is ready to drink now but will improve over the next 2-5 years. Worth the extra money over the regular cuvée.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Christian Moreau Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceAnise, pear, green apple, nectarine skin, light buttery nose with a light lees streak. Ripe, round, elegant, dry palate with spicy, chalky, mineral, citrus, baked pear and butter flavours with a touch of butterscotch. Very solid, attractive style that will improve over the next 2-3 years. Good value.Prices:| BC | $37.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $36.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
William Fèvre Petit Chablis 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceRipe red apple, pear, butter, mineral aromas, good ripe nose. Dry, fresh, round, crisp palate with chalky, mineral, green apple skin, citrus rind flavours. Very solid style to accompany food with good vibrancy.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $28.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Torres Coronas Tempranillo 2004
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainCompost, earthy, chocolate, gamey, leather nose with a touch of cherry. Dry, round, elegant, lightly tannic palate with black cherry, menthol, gamey, earthy flavours. Fresh, dry finish that will go well with basic foods. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $13.25 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
De Bortoli Shiraz-Viognier Yarra Valley 2004
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaWhite pepper, licorice, menthol, meaty, floral, caraway aromas. Dry, round, supple and elegant palate with roasted pepper, black cherry, meaty, spicy, floral, menthol, peppery flavours. Good finesse and finish, will improve over the next 2-4 years. Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Villa Teresa Prosecco Veneto 2004
Veneto, ItalyOpen floral, candied granny smith, anise, and almond nose in a fresh and attractive style. Fresh, crisp, elegant, delicate style with floral, spicy, pear and apple flavours. Fun and fresh with soft mousse but good vibrancy. Great value, drink anytime.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Champagne Taittinger Nocturne Sec NV
Champagne, FranceFine, continuous mousse. Nutty, toasty, baked apple, floral, pear, slightly waxy nose. Fresh, round, crisp, full bodied style with good acidity balance and a bit of sweetness. Baked apple, pear, and toasty, nutty, brioche, mineral, citrus and cherry flavours. Very solid fruit core and balance, not too austere nor too sweet. Great drinking now.Prices:| BC | $93.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Abadia Retuerta Cuvée El Palomar 2002
Sardon del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainMeaty, smoky, black cherry, chocolate, sweaty saddle leather, tobacco aromas. Round, dry, slightly tannic palate with a touch of acidity. Smoky, meaty, gamey, peppery, minty, earthy, tobacco, cooked carrot, Band-Aid flavours. Finish is chunky with some smoky oak. Needs food or a few years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $37.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Abadia Retuerta Seleccion Especial 2003
Sardon del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainSmoky, spicy, black cherry, cedar bark, sweaty saddle, prune, gamey aromas. Dry, round, slightly tannic palate with cherry, peppery, smoky, mineral, Band-Aid, saddle leather, menthol, rootsy flavours. A bit chunky and coarse, showing some youthful structure.Prices:| BC | $31.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Abadia Retuerta Rivola 2004
Sardon del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainSpicy, cherry jam, saddle leather, chocolate, sweaty animal, barnyard aromas. Dry, round, supple palate with cedar, chocolate, Band-Aid, cherry, smoky leather. Solid food wine with a warm finish.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Domaine Carneros Pinot Noir 2005
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesCelery salt, rootsy, cherry, tea leaf, compost, mint aromas. Dry, round, elegant, light palate with compost, celery, smoky, tea leaf, cool fruit flavours. Forward style with some finesse.Prices:| BC | $39.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Rosemount Shiraz 2005
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen peppery, licorice root, gamey nose with black cherry aromas. Round, supple, soft palate with licorice, spicy, rootsy, black cherry flavours. Simple, easy drinking Oz red with a fresh finish.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $17.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.15 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $18.99 | 750ml |
| NF | $16.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $17.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Black Label 2004
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaIntense leafy, tobacco, green olive, green bean, resin, smoky cedar aromas. Dry, tart, lean entry with coffee grind, vanilla, peppery, green olive, tobacco leaf, smoky resin flavours. Tart, somewhat edgy finish with green edges. A Coonawarra red but it lacks elegance and ripeness.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.55 | 750ml |
| SK | $21.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.79 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Grant Burge Cameron Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaSpicy, peppery, cassis, blueberry, minty, violet aromas. Soft, round, dry palate but quite fresh with lean tannins. Peppery, cassis, licorice root, cherry, coffee, resiny, cola, coffee flavours. Finish is quite tight and hard, needs food or a couple years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Grant Burge Barossa Vines Shiraz 2004
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaCoffee, peppery, blackberry, cola, blueberry, licorice and cedar aromas. Dry, round, full, slightly tart palate. Warm with blueberry, black cherry, coffee, vanilla, cola flavours. Young, fresh, fruity style with some grip on the back end. Good value, best with grilled lamb or turkey.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.15 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Terrazas de los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2003
Mendoza, ArgentinaCorked, try another.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.25 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Puente Alto, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileSmoky, peppery, cassis jam, sappy, spicy, menthol, vanilla, rubber aromas. Dry, round, full bodied with chalky tannins. Cassis, black cherry, peppery, cedar, vanilla, coffee, sappy, menthol flavours. Good solid style of cabernet with concentration that will improve over the next year or two.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mission Hill Reserve Pinot Noir 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky vanilla, resin, rhubarb, green tea leaf aromas. Dry, round, tight but elegant palate with more resin, cedar, cooked rhubarb, smoky, celery flavours. A simple, ready-to-drink pinot that will be best with food.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $28.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $29.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Yalumba Cabernet Sauvignon Y Series 2005
South Australia, AustraliaTobacco leaf, rootsy, green olive, smoky, cedar bark notes mark the nose with flecks of cassis and dried herbs. Dry, slightly tannic palate with green olive, coffee, cassis, tobacco leaf, herbal, smoky, twiggy resiny cabernet flavours. A very cool, herbal style that needs grilled meat to tame its herbal side.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.45 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.05 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileTasted a year later, the nose is still big and spicy with mint, cherry, cedar, sappy cassis aromas with a touch of chocolate and tobacco. The mid-palate is firm and dry with young tannins. Lots of sappy cassis fruit, vanilla, chocolate, coffee grind, licorice and smoky spicy black cherry fruit flavours. Full but elegant style cabernet with that will age well for a few more years.Prices:| BC | $20.20 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.05 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.05 | 750ml |
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14 September 2007
85PTS
Mapu Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2006
Region del Valle Central, ChileThe '06 Mapu blend continues as a 60/40 sauvignon blanc/chardonnay but this version is crisper and fresher with more grassy sauvignon blanc showing through and just a touch of bitterness. Clean fresh simple affordable white wine for mid-week meals. Good value.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Melini Chianti 2005
Tuscany, ItalyMelini Chianti remains the classic regional sangiovese with its cedar-y, sappy, floral notes and skinny textures. Light hints of cherries and almonds mark its short dry aftertaste. Simple, unadorned, sangiovese that needs a bit of fat to tame its acidic after bite.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.25 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Parducci Coro Mendocino 2003
Mendocino County, California, United StatesThe '03 Coro is an all-Parducci affair with each of the lots now coming off the estate in a 60/25/15 blend of zinfandel, syrah and petite sirah. The zinfandel fruit is front and centre offering juicy blackberry and bramble fruits backed up by and earthy, spicy finish. It's a gutsy, mouth-filling red with a serious need for food.Prices:| US | $35.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Le Bombarde Cannonau di Sardegna 2005
Sardinia, ItalyCorked!Prices:| BC | $15.21 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Mapu Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2005
Region del Valle Central, ChileThe Mapu blend is 60/40 sauvignon blanc that focus on crisp clean fruit picked about the Maipo Valley. I got to the '05 review a little late but there's still a bit of zip in what is a maturing version of citrus fruits with a whiff of tropical fruit in the back end. Fairly dry at this point and needs food to excel. Drink up.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $12.45 | 750ml |
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13 September 2007
91PTS
Highland Estate Napa Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United StatesFloral, spicy, peppery, mineral, dusty earth, cassis jam, garrigue, smoky aromas. Rich, round, concentrated palate with some young tannin. Big black pepper, smoky, roasted earth, bitter chocolate, cassis, coffee, blackberry flavours. Long, hot, bigger style, less finesse now, needs 3-5 years.Prices:| US | $45.00 | 750ml |
| CDN | $80.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Highland Estates Alisos Hills Syrah 2004
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesSmoky, licorice, black cherry, meaty, garrigue, peppery, plum, cola aromas. Round, supple, dry and slightly tannic palate. Peppery, smoky, roasted pepper, garrigue, black cherry, resin, licorice root flavours. Good balance if a bit hot and hollow. Plush palate is nice but could use a bit more freshness and grip. Prices:| BC | $59.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $58.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Highland Estates Seco Highlands Chardonnay 2005
Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesA mix of chardonnay clones including 4, 76, 96, Rued, Z and 809 are behind its spicy, floral, honey, Muscat, red apple, peach skin, ginger, butterscotch nose. Round, slightly fat and hot, elegant palate. Butterscotch, spicy lees, ginger, baked apple, honey, melon flavours. Nice delicacy but needs less alcohol and more acidity. Very aromatic.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.95 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Highland Estates Camelot Highlands Chardonnay 2005
Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesMineral, citrus, floral, honey, pineapple, lees, earth, buttery nose with a hint of spicy Muscat. Ripe, round, good concentration and acidity with some viscosity. Butter, mango, mineral, vanilla, lees, citrus, creamsicle flavours. Good finesse and length, bigger style, just a touch hot.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
De Bortoli Gulf Station Riesling 2006
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaFloral, lime, slate, peach skin aromas. Round, full, elegant but fresh and crisp with a touch of oiliness. Peach pit, mineral, lime, spicy flavours. Good balance, not heavy despite a 13% alcohol level.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
De Bortoli Sauvignon Blanc Yarra Valley 2006
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaToasty oak, melon, lees, gooseberry, citrus, slate aromas. Round, elegant, fresh palate with a touch of oiliness. Lees, spicy, gooseberry, grapefruit, melon, slate, buttery, grassy flavours with a touch of lime and grapefruit rind on the finish. Good concentration and finesse. Made with wild yeast, barrel fermentation in older French oak, lees stirring for 5-6 months.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
De Bortoli Chardonnay Yarra Valley 2006
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaWaxy, vanilla, citrus, lees, melon, ripe peach aromas. Round, elegant, fresh and dry palate with good crispness and viscosity. Melon, citrus, mineral, green apple, vanilla, butter, peach skin flavours. Finish has a bit of bitter grapefruit rind and toasty lees. Good food wine in a cooler style from Oz.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
De Bortoli Pinot Noir Reserve Yarra Valley 2005
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaFrom the oldest estate vines, about 35 years old. 250 cases made. Spicy, carrot top, cherry, floral, strawberry jam, smoky, licorice root aromas. Round, elegant, dry, slightly tannic palate but delicate. Strawberry, celery root, spicy, smoky, carrot top, orange peel, cherry flavours with a bit of vanilla and spice on the finish. Good finesse and length but a bit simple. Prices:| BC | $42.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
De Bortoli Pinot Noir Yarra Valley 2006
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaBlack cherry, spicy, Worcester, pepper, vanilla, carrot top, gamey aromas. Round, dry, elegant palate but a bit tight with fresh acidity. Smoky, resin, black cherry, orange peel, celery, spicy, rootsy flavours with a vanilla, mineral finish. Good balance, bit cooler style with some light tannins and green edges to soften over the next 1-3 years. Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
De Bortoli Shiraz-Viognier Yarra Valley 2005
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaMade with 4% viognier co-fermented with shiraz. Used 20% whole bunch, cold soak, part wild and part cultured yeast. Very smoky, spicy, black cherry, floral, barnyard, licorice root, boysenberry, minty, white pepper aromas. Round, ripe, elegant and supple with smooth tannins. Cherry, boysenberry, spicy, vanilla, peppery, minty, licorice, carrot top flavours. Nice elegance and length, only 20% new French oak. Ripe but tart fruit finish, a good food wine. Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
De Bortoli Syrah Reserve Release Yarra Valley 2004
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaMade from the oldest vines, planted in 1971 at Dixons Creek. Big spicy, smoky, peppery, barnyard, leather, stewed prune plum, tobacco, and black cherry aromas with a touch of iodine. Round, dry, supple and smooth but a bit tight. Good concentration and acidity balance. Boysenberry jam, plum, licorice, vanilla, tobacco, peppery, orange juice and soy flavours. Long, good fruit, will age further, a slightly cooler style with more tannins.Prices:| AU | $53.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $42.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
De Bortoli Shiraz Yarra Valley 2003
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaPure shiraz, last 100% bottling is 2003. Smoky, floral, barnyard, leather, peppery, blackberry, red licorice aromas with a touch of prune plum. Round, ripe, full, and slightly hot but supple. Blackberry, black cherry, rootsy, peppery, vanilla, spicy, orange flavours with a bit of leather and blueberry on the finish. Showing well, can age further 1-3 years.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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95PTS
De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon 2004
AustraliaNoble One continues to impress one vintage short of its 25th anniversary. The 2004 has undergone two important changes: the switch to screwcap (for those markets who want it) and the addition of 20 per cent un-oaked juice to the final blend. The result is anew level of aromatics that in a sense has allowed Noble One to trade its some mid-palate weight for stunning vibrancy in the mouth. We love the big apricot, botrytised nectarine fruit, the layered spicy, orange marmalade flavours streaked with creamy, smoky, vanilla flecks. The finish is a crisp as ever and clean with plenty of honey, dried apricot, baked apple, melon, grapefruit and butter with a creamy vanilla, toasty, fig finish This should age gracefully for decades under screwcap. Fabulous value.Prices:| BC | $27.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $33.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $30.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Kaiken Malbec 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaIt would appear Aurelio Montes has put the magic back into malbec, but he had to go to Argentina to do it, hence "Kaiken," named after the wild goose that flies back and forth over the Andes between Chile and Argentina. Rich, savoury, soft flavours streaked with licorice, pepper, black cherry jam, coffee and cardamom.Prices:| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| US | $10.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Francis Ford Coppola Presents Presents Rosso Classic 2004
California, United StatesCoppola Presents isn't quite a feature film but it's a decent short. Floral peppery bramble fruit aromas mark the nose of this spaghetti red. The palate mixes cedar bark sausage and black fruit in a simple sipping red. Grill chicken or pork should help tame the rough edges.Prices:| BC | $21.15 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Trivento Reserve Syrah 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaTrivento has its eye on value and this Reserve syrah is likely as good as any label yet we've seen from this Concha y Toro property in Mendoza. Expect dense meaty peppery, black fruit with a twist of savoury Argentine spice. Warm rustic, and affordable it's the perfect antidote to a cool, autumn evening. Prices:| BC | $13.98 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Casillero del Diablo Shiraz 2006
Region del Valle Central, ChileIt's hard to believe this wine could be so consistent year after year, but it is. Always peppery, it has just enough smoky meaty notes grab your attention before the cherry and chocolate kicks in. This is outstanding for the price and pretty much in a field of its own at $13.Prices:| BC | $12.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.25 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.10 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $12.29 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Yalumba Barossa Shiraz Viognier 2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaAlways spicy and floral with celery salt, ginger and black raspberry fruit this is a heady expression of shiraz with viognier. The palate is cleaved open by the viognier exposing sweet black raspberry jam flavours, with flecks of citrus and orange. The finish is warm and a touch acidic calling for food to smooth out the final impression.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Folie à Deux Ménage a Trois Red 2005
California, United StatesI've always preferred the white version of this label but the 05 red is a fine improvement specifically with less herbal notes. The palate is supple and soft with ripe, juicy black fruit and bramble berry flavours. The trio of grapes is mostly Amador zinfandel with about 30 per cent cabernet (sauvignon and franc) out of Napa. Very pleasant California red wine with no sharp edges. Good value.Prices:| BC | $17.90 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $19.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $19.99 | 750ml |
| NF | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Vina Casas del Bosque Syrah Reserve 2004
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileMuch like its Okanagan brethren this new Chilean syrah offers terrific value. Bosque's syrah is cool with bright spicy pepper and earth notes with bits of smoke and resin. It's a touch rubbery when you open it but eventually it blows off in the glass or decanter. Look for intense Rhone-like characters with cracked pepper and meaty notes throughout the finish. It will support a variety of hearty autumn dishes.Prices:| BC | $21.55 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cremaschi Furlotti Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileI'm not a big fan of Chilean cabernet but I must admit this is an attractive wine and it will have wide appeal for those who like a spicy, sappy, minty, cassis nose mixed with a hint of cigar leaf. The palate is dry, that tannins a bit chewy but there is plenty of peppery fruit and black olive flavours to attract. It's ready to drink now and would be perfect with most hearty fall dishes or grilled meat entrees or strong cheeses.Prices:| BC | $16.95 | 750ml |
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12 September 2007
88PTS
Errazuriz Chardonnay Wild Ferment 2005
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileWild Ferment is hand-picked, whole-cluster pressed and fermented wild in stainless steel tanks. The nose is a mix of minerals lees and butter. The entry is soft and round with more buttery lemon fruits and bits of pear and honey. Long and warm, it finishes with a touch of butterscotch. Oddly New Wave (wild ferment, lees, cool-climate) and a touch old fashioned at once. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
CedarCreek Merlot Cabernet Classic 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 'Classic' blend is 59/28/13 merlot/cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc and it spends some 18 months in French oak for polishing. Look for red fruit aromas spiked with vanilla and mocha. The palate is dry with flavours of blackberry, plums and just a hint of blueberries with plenty of fine-grained tannins at the back end. Perfect for hearty, Fall dishes like game or lamb or sausages.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Pinot Gris 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest SYL gris is a winner. The nose has a nice touch of earth mixed with yellow fruits honey and mineral notes. On the palate its rich and mouth filling with more honey, mineral, pear and green apple flavours. Cleaner with less obvious oak than in previous editions. Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Black Hills Alibi 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe current release Black Hills Alibi 2006, a 81/19 mix of sauvignon blanc an sémillon is simply a delicious drop of wine and a poster child for a B.C. white wine you can serve with food. It's both stainless steel fermented and a portion is also fermented in oak puncheons. The result is a super fresh stylish white. The Tenant's are working on the complexity meter to get that up a notch but other this is among my top ten labels in the valley. It will only get better. Prices:| BC | $23.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Anakena Sauvignon Blanc Single Vineyard 2006
Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChilePassion fruit, grapefruit rind, floral, canned jalapeno and pear aromas. Ripe, round, crisp and elegant. Good fresh passion fruit, grapefruit, granny smith, jalapeno, nectarine flavours with a touch of guava. A tad warm but very good flavour concentration with some finesse and length. Well made, very attractive style for current consumption.Prices:| BC | $17.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tinhorn Creek 2Bench Oldfield Collection White 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada2Bench is an alluring mix of sémillon chardonnay sauvignon blanc and gewürztraminer. There's no oak used here in attempt to keep the wine fresh and pure. The plan is let the aromatics lead with some tropical aromas and have the chardonnay fill in the mid-palate with a bit of weight and texture. It's finished under screwcap to best retain its fresh character for years to come.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Franc 2005
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlthough I'm not normally a big fan of cabernet franc, no one does it better in B.C. The nose is classic cedar and tobacco with bits of dried leaf, chocolate and cranberry. It's very supple on the palate with more spicy, cigar and cherry/chocolate notes. The finish is long, mouth filling and warm with fine fruit character and thankfully ripe tannins. Good now but will age. Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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10 September 2007
87PTS
The Show Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
California, United StatesAnother concept wine that tries to make sipping simple. The Show mixes fruit from the Central and North Coast AVAs. The bulk is Monterey (42%) and Paso Robles (28%) and Napa (10%) cabernet with bits of merlot, cabernet franc, petite sirah and petit verdot. The colour is deep while the palate is predictably soft and supple with black jammy fruit flavours with sweet, spicy, vanilla notes in the finish. Easy drinking if a bit boring.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cypress Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
California, United StatesMuch like last year the 05 cypress comes with a floral cherry licorice note nose and bits of cherry blossoms. The attack is dry and resiny with brambleberry, rootsy fruit like flavour and some fairly dry tannin. Needs a grilled meat entrée to tame its sharp edges.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cypress Merlot 2005
Central Coast, California, United StatesThe latest Cypress merlot has a floral blueberry note throughout the nose and palate. The structure is dry with resiny spicy notes in the finish. More tobacco and cedar notes marks its rustic finish that is neither as soft nor as supple as you would expect for this variety.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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09 September 2007
87PTS
Morandé Carmenère 2005
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileAnother stylish effort form Morandé deliver all you could ask for at this price level. Unabashedly carmenère with is herbaceous leafy nose but with a soft peppery fruity demeanour flecked with chocolate. Fine value for carmenère freaks. Serve liberally around the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Calina Carmenère Reserva 2005
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileMuch like the previous version the '05 has that spicy, gamey, leafy nose followed by an earthy, leafy, bitter chocolate and spicy cherry flavours. There's 11 per cent cabernet sauvignon in the blend that tends to stiffen the finish. Needs a grilled steak to tame its dry finish. Prices:| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| US | $7.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Bisquertt Casa La Joya Premium Carmenère 2002
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChilePremium Osvaldo Bisquertt is the top expression of the winery's carmenère line-up. Look for bright cassis and peppery cherry fruit aromas with a leafy undercurrent. On the palate, dark fruits and even a hint of blueberries marks its sweet palate. There are plenty of dry supple tannins in the finish that suggest this will need several more years to reach maturity but its well done and probably worth investing in if you are fan of carmenère.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bisquertt Family Vineyards La Joya Gran Reserve Carmenere 2003
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe La Joya Grand Reserve reaches yet another level with its enticing spicy and barrel notes. Perfectly ripe and yet sporting solid acidity you get the pepper and fruit with a spicy black cherry under carriage. The finish is showing some dry youthful tannin that should dissipate over time or with food. Think meaty Mexican dishes or grilled beef.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bisquertt Casa La Joya Reserve Carmenere 2004
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe La Joya Reserve has fine intensity moving everything up a notch form the regular. Look for intense herbal smoky peppery black fruit, with a touch of jalapeño and smooth silky tannins. Well constructed for grilled meats or pork. Drink or hold for three to five years.Prices:| BC | $14.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Cremaschi Furlotti Carmenère Reserve 2005
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileFermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in French oak barrels for 12 months the latest Furlotti carmenère has big smoky floral peppery nose with bits of cedar and cherry. On the palate the wine is spicy and smooth with vanilla, coffee black cherry and cedar flavours. There is some gripp-y tannin in the finish. Best with rustic grilled meat dishes off the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $16.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.95 | 750ml |
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08 September 2007
87PTS
Santa Cristina Antinori Pinot Grigio 2006
Tuscany, ItalyNew from Antinori and this Sicilian pinot grigio is a winner. Look for a bright fresh, citrus floral nose that follows through on the palate. Snappy fresh and affordable this is grigio that works for the price and screams Italy too. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Garci Grande Verdejo Viura Rueda 2006
Rueda, Castilla-Leon, SpainA classic mix of verdejo and viura that has a fresh clean upfront scent but remains richer and fatter that you might expect on the palate. It's fairly warm and round in the finish suggesting this could be much more than just a summer sipper.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Riesling 2006
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWe love the way winemaker Randy Picton works his riesling combining honey notes with fresh apples or what he simply calls orchard fruits. The palate is fresh with a touch of sweet fruit and fine minerality. Sip solo or pair it up with spicy Asian/Indian dishes for maximum effect.Prices:| BC | $17.09 | 750ml |
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07 September 2007
87PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Pinot Blanc 2006
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWinemaker Randy Picton whole bunch pressed his Nk'Mip Cellars Pinot Blanc 2006 and fermented it in stainless steel. The result is a super clean, fresh, pinot with delightful tropical fruit flavours and fine acidity. The finish is a mix of citrus and mineral notes that cleans the palate throughout the finish. Delicious and good value too. Now under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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04 September 2007
93PTS
Hartford Court Chardonnay Stone Côte 2004
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeach, butter, floral, citrus, lees, pineapple, red apple, spicy aromatic nose. Round, rich, elegant palate. Butterscotch, creamy, pineapple, baked nectarine, citrus, guava, spicy cinnamon flavours. Fine concentration and length, like a fruit driven Corton Charlemagne but not too heavy or oily. Could use a touch more acidity but fine quality for drinking now and over the next 2-3 years.Prices:| AB | $55.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Château Pey la Tour Reserve du Chateau 2004
Bordeaux, FranceCassis, cedar, spicy, cherry, peppery, smoky saddle leather aromas with a touch of olive and coffee. Dry, round, fairly supple palate with light tannins and fresh acidity. Spicy, cedar, licorice, smoky, cassis and tobacco flavours. Simple, elegant style with good acidity balance. Drink now - 2 years.Prices:| BC | $25.49 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.75 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.71 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Château Pey la Tour Reserve du Chateau 2003
Bordeaux, FranceCedar, pepper, resin, black olive, tobacco, beef, briary nose. Dry, slightly tannic, tight entry with spicy, coffee, cassis, peppery, cherry flavours. Simple, easy style that needs a year or so to soften. Best with beef.Prices:| BC | $25.49 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.75 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.71 | 750ml |
| ON | $21.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Paul Pillot Saint Aubin 1er Cru Les Charmois 2004
Burgundy, FranceGreen apple, citrus, floral, mineral, light lees and butter aromas. Round, ripe, elegant style with good acidity. Ripe green apple, lime, mineral, butter, spicy, earthy flavours. Good solid style for food with some intensity.Prices:| BC | $45.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Saumur Lieu-dit Les Pouches 2006
Saumur, Loire, FranceChalky, floral, lime, green apple skin, slate aromas with a slight smoky, pear note. Dry, crisp, round palate with good finesse and a slight oiliness. Juicy citrus, granny smith, buttery, slate flavours with a hint of honey and almond on the finish. Very attractive food wine with balance. Terrific value.Prices:| BC | $16.75 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Corte Giara Amarone della Valpolicella 2004
Veneto, ItalyVanilla, stewed plum, tobacco leaf, violet, meaty, earthy, spicy, slightly reduced nose. Round, dry, slightly tannic gritty palate with fresh acidity. Tobacco leaf, black cherry, licorice root, bitter almond, chocolate flavours. A tad green but very solid. Needs 2-4 years to soften. More modern style Amarone.Prices:| BC | $52.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $47.95 | 750ml |
| SK | $41.75 | 750ml |
| MB | $41.75 | 750ml |
| ON | $37.75 | 750ml |
| QC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Corte Giara Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2005
Veneto, ItalySpicy, licorice, meaty, floral, cherry jam, strawberry aromas with a smoky, tobacco leaf streak. Soft, round, ripe palate with good acidity and light tannins. Fresh with cherry, plum, tobacco, cedar, meaty spicy chocolate flavours. Good solid pasta or meat wine with some finesse.Prices:| BC | $25.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.95 | 750ml |
| SK | $20.42 | 750ml |
| MB | $20.42 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.10 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Corte Giara Pagus Valpolicella 2006
Veneto, ItalySmoky, licorice, plum, meaty, tobacco, black cherry aromas. Soft, round, supple and dry but fresh on the palate. Cherry, licorice, spicy, rhubarb, smoky, resin flavours. Solid, easy drinking style for light foods and pizza.Prices:| BC | $15.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $11.71 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.80 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo 2005
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyMeaty, peppery, sausage, black cherry, resin, cassis, smoky barnyard nose. Ripe, round, supple, slightly dry palate. Black cherry, smoky, licorice, peppery, cassis, vanilla, cedar flavours. Good solid fruit core with some light tannins and fresh acidity on the finish.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.90 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Brancaia Tre 2004
Tuscany, ItalyPrices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $28.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tommasi Poggio al Tufo Rompicollo 2004
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyOpen meaty, smoky, spicy, peppery, resin nose with light tobacco, cherry notes. Round, dry, supple, easy style with light tannins. More smoky, cherry, resin, cedar, peppery, olive flavours. Elegant but quite a warm (alcoholic) finish. The blend is 60/40 sangiovese/cabernet sauvignon.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.90 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Brancaia Il Blu 2004
Tuscany, ItalySmoky, peppery, garrigue, floral, black cherry, cassis, vanilla, licorice root and coffee aromas with a tobacco, cedar streak underneath. Rich, round, dry palate with some tight tannin. Peppery, smoky, resin, black cherry, meaty, licorice, cedar, black olive and tobacco flavours. Tight, youthful tannin finish, this is a bit more austere in style than the Ilatria. Needs 3-5 years to soften.Prices:| BC | $96.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $80.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Brancaia Ilatraia Maremma 2004
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyVery good black cherry colour. Very spicy, cassis, vanilla, black cherry, smoky, coffee, tobacco, meaty, saddle leather nose. Rich, ripe, round, elegant palate with some youthful but ripe tannin. Cedar, tobacco, vanilla, coffee, black cherry, cassis, peppery, olive flavours. Good concentration and intensity, shows young cabernet character most. Will improve over the next 2-5 years. Fine fruit.Prices:| BC | $87.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $79.00 | 750ml |
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03 September 2007
87PTS
Zumaya Tempranillo Ribera del Duero 2005
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainZumaya takes its name from the small owl that lives in the region and it's a new concept in the D.O. Ribera del Duero, namely ready to drink earlier. This is 100 per cent tempranillo, hand-picked grapes grown on 25 year-old vines close to Aranda del Duero, in the heart of the D.O. The colour is dark, the nose a mix of smoke and meaty red fruits. The flavour is a mix cranberry and black fruits with bits of vanilla and mocha from the American oak barrels it is aged in. A touch alcoholic if otherwise a solid Spanish red.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Château de Valcombe Costières de Nîmes 2005
Costières de Nîmes, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceChateau de Valcombe is a Costières de Nîmes (south of France) blend of syrah and grenache with floral mineral, black fruit notes on the nose. The textures are soft and pliable with red fruits and meaty, licorice finish. Perfect for fall menus items such as mushrooms and stews.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cycles Gladiator Syrah 2005
Central Coast, California, United StatesFinally a California wine that seems to be passing on the benefits of a stronger Canadian dollar. The Cycles Gladiator is a well-priced Central Coast red sourced from cool Monterey and warm Paso Robles fruit. The combination of plums and white pepper with blueberries and French oak make this a winning combination. Soft sensuous ripe and mouth filling most consumes will love this style. Will easily match a variety of fall game dishes but it's so soft and supple you could sip it solo if you had to. Great by-the-glass candidate. Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Joe Blow Red 2005
California, United StatesJoe Blow Red is supposed to be a 'serious' wine with a not so serious name. The nose is slightly dirty with a leafy compost edge to it, showing less fruit that you might expect given its mix of syrah, merlot, petite sirah, zinfandel and cabernet sauvignon grapes. On the palate the wine is slightly acidic with blueberry and earthy flavours. A hamburger red wine selling at the price of a cheap steak.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Luna Beberide Mencia 2005
Bierzo, Castilla-Leon, SpainThe Luna, made from 100 per cent mencia, is a very consumer friendly wine from its dark red colour to its enticing floral black fruit nose. It is extremely soft and supple on entry with a long soft round black fruit finish. Just dry enough to be more interesting than so many other reds in this price range from around the world that are too sweet. A versatile food wine that represents very good value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Anakena Carmenère 2006
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileAnakena has all the classic, minty cassis and dill notes of carmenère with plenty of earthy tobacco leafy compost minty chocolate flavours on the palate. Smooth and ripe it should appeal to carmenère lovers. It is certainly good value.Prices:| BC | $13.50 | 750ml |
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02 September 2007
84PTS
Peninsula Ridge Viogner 2006
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaThe nose is fresh and floral with flecks of orange citrus. The entry is skinny and a bit acidic with dried peach and orange notes throughout. There are plenty of mineral undertones but the finish is sharp and edgy. Best with richer seafood dishes or sauced chicken dishes.Prices:| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Arceno Prima Voce 2003
Tuscany, ItalyPrima Voce is a blend of 57/22/13/8/ merlot/cabernet sauvignon/sangiovese and syrah. Cassis, earthy, spicy, cherry, floral, meaty nose. Round, soft, dry palate. Cherry jam, resin, spicy, smoky tobacco flavours with a touch of roasted meat. Warm, lightly tannic finish but somewhat hollow. Solid meat wine.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Beringer Viognier 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesOpen heavy perfumed nose of honey, quince and citrus. Big and rich on entry it actually offers sup some finesse and freshness on the mid-palate and finish. Look for spicy dried honey, mineral and exotic floral fruit with flecks of orange. Should be a fine match with seafood. We need younger vintages of this wine to really appreciate its style. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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October 2007