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Tastings: October 2007
31 October 2007
87PTS
Les Hauts de Peyruse Côtes du Ventoux 2006
Ventoux, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThis is a delicious little French red under screwcap. The nose is fragrant; the fruit subdued but very much in place with classic peppery plum fruit flecked with Asian spice. Clean, fresh, and lively it I sunder screwcap which no doubt adds to its clean appeal in the glass. Great value too.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Vinha do Monte 2004
Alentejo, Central and Southern Portugal, PortugalNew label but same spicy, resiny, gamey, earthy aromas flecked with cherries and vanilla. The entry is rich and dry but surprisingly round and smooth for Portuguese red wine. Similar peppery, plum flavours with spice and licorice in the finish. Solid red wine for hearty fall dishes. It represents pretty good value for the adventurous sipper.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Chakana Syrah 2006
Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig open expressive meaty black fruit nose with intense streaks of spicy, savoury, menthol throughout. The entry is quite smooth with meaty, resiny, black cherry, coriander notes on the mid-palate and finish. Still with some lurking youthful tannins the Argentines would subdue with some barbecued meat.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Marrenon Private Gallery Syrah Grenache 2006
Vin de Pays de Vaucluse, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceAnother pleasant surprise. Sensibly designed with fragrance, black fruit and spice. A bit warm and correspondingly ripe and soft but not in an overpowering manner. A fine dinner wine for an uncomplicated meal of pork or chicken. The blend is 70/30 syrah/grenache. Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.49 | 750ml |
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24 October 2007
85PTS
Finca Flichman Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Aged 2006
Mendoza, ArgentinaLight peppery fruit nose with specks of spicy, tar, and savoury red fruits. The textures are soft and round on entry; the fruit lively with good acidity and more tarry, cassis, tobacco and vanilla flavours. Short dry finish.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Shiraz 2004
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaOpen inviting glossy red wine with red licorice, and minty aromas. The entry is supple with more minty, blueberry sweet red fruit flavours with spicy coffee, gamey, leather flavours. Warm, round fruity finish with good spice and length. Solid.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Ridge Shiraz 2004
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaBig spicy dusty white pepper nose with smoky, blueberry leather notes. The entry is smooth but dry with more dusty earthy blackberry jam. This is big powerful shiraz that needs an equally strong dish to stand up to it. Roast lamb or venison would be a good choice.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Jackson-Triggs Cabernet Sauvignon Proprietors' Reserve 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis wine is fairly consistent from year to year now with its roasted bell pepper and spicy, cassis aromas. The entry is soft with some grainy tannins and plenty of peppery chocolate cassis fruit. The finish is warm and spicy with a fair amount of alcohol. Young but solid - you can drink with roasted meats or hold.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Inniskillin Okanagan Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntense, herbal/minty cassis nose. On entry you get the cool bell pepper notes with more smoky resiny coffee leafy, extracted fruit notes. The tannins are youthful and dry suggesting it needs more time or a big piece of meat.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kaiken Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThis is a full-metal jacket cabernet with the savoury black fruit nose. On the palate you get a bit of minerality with fine acid and more spicy, blueberry cassis and coffee mocha fruit. It's big but the tannins are fine-grained with some black olive, cigar flavours in the finish. Made to age but you can drink it now with a steak. There is ten per cent malbec in the blend. Prices:| US | $10.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Montes Classic Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileTypical Montes with an attractive, minty opening with bits of red fruit and chocolate. The blend is 85/15 cabernet sauvignon and merlot all from the Colchagua Valley and all aged six months in new and used American oak. Fine, spicy, mid-palate with leafy, black fruit and chocolate flavours. Well made straight-up cabernet.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileTwelve months in French oak and ten per cent merlot gives this old vine red all the gloss it needs. The nose is inviting showing black fruit, vanilla, spice and tobacco. Similar flavours penetrate the palate in a smooth jacket of warm red fruits with blueberry and smoky black licorice in the finish. The finish is long and persistent.Prices:| BC | $26.94 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Redbank Long Paddock Shiraz Victoria 2004
Victoria, AustraliaOld barrels, ripe fruit and cool vineyards all add up to a peppery, meaty blackberry nose with a touch of compost. On the palate it's dry and mouth-filling with ripe black fruit and resiny black licorice flavours. The finish is big, warm and spicy. Good value.Prices:| AB | $16.50 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Simon Gilbert Cabernet Merlot Card Series 2003
New South Wales, AustraliaSpicy, tobacco, minty, chocolate, black cherry aromas with a big peppery streak. Soft, round, supple style with light tannins and a touch of sweetness. Coffee, chocolate, cherry, candy, minty, tobacco flavours with a hint of mint. Starting to dry out, needs drinking.Prices:| BC | $15.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.75 | 750ml |
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23 October 2007
90PTS
Catena Malbec 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaCatena's insistence on less new oak, using a multitude of clones and vineyards makes its version less voluptuous, but more sophisticated assort of über cool edition. The nose is open and inviting with that savoury mix of black fruit and licorice streaked with bits of chocolate, orange and bay leaf. A stylish red wine you can drink now or age through 2015.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Forefathers Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandForefathers Sauvignon Blanc comes from a single vineyard on an eastern slope in the heart of Marlborough comprised of a gravely loam soil. Produced by Goldschmidt Vineyards, this is exceptionally tasty New Zealand sauvignon that concentrates on ripe mature flavours versus the aggressive, pungent herbal aspects. Its tank-fermented on the lees to add a creamy quality to the texture and complement its fabulous fruit flavours. Look for plenty of peachy/pear fruit that slips on the palate with just enough acidity and structure to make it food friendly. This is stage two of the modern-day, pristine, Kiwi sauvignon that comes, as you might expect, under Stelvin closure.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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22 October 2007
87PTS
Finca La Linda Extra Brut NV
Mendoza, ArgentinaLa Linda Extra Brut is a 50/50 selection of estate chardonnay and sémillon grown at Finca La Linda 960 metres above sea-level at Luján de Cuyo and "El Paraíso" Vineyard 780 metres above sea level at Maipú. It has a wonderful tropical fruit character with bits of honey and dried nectarine skin. There's just enough finesse to hide the fact it's made using the bulk Charmat process. Soft easy sipping aperitif style bubble you can sip solo or with appetizers.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Barefoot Shiraz NV
Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Barefoot theme is fun and inexpensive. The wine is sound but sweet with warm smoky, brambly black fruit aromas and a sweet, chocolate, berry, vanilla flavours. Simple round, smooth, commercial red without much varietal definition. The blend is non-vintage.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Peter Lehmann Semillon 2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaAlmost identical to the previous year with an intense fresh citrus fruit nose with a touch of oil and lanolin. The entry is dry, with intense peachy, melon citrus fruit flavours in a surprisingly delicate package. Ready to drink and perfect with oysters this is a terrific value wine. As Peter Lehmann is fond of saying, "Our style of Barossa Semillon sits beautifully between the freshness of riesling and the greater weight of chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thirsty Lizard Shiraz 2005
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaI must say this wine surprised me for the price. Ripe round and spicy on the palate with dark red fruit and chocolate notes and not too much acidity poking through at the end. The finish is warm and spicy with some decent density and weight. A great value barbecue red in an unbreakable box. I'm betting it will get better with time too.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 1000ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 1000ml |
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21 October 2007
89PTS
Edge Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesA warm harvest has given the '04 Edge a big showy demeanour on the nose and in the glass. The nose is a mix of chocolate, blackberry and clove aromas. The entry is smooth and round and so are the edges in the finish. In between it pleases with big ripe fruit and chocolate flavours with bits of vanilla, pepper, and spicy, cedar in the back end. Intensity, power and drinkability, all wrapped up in a delicious cabernet.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Edge Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe Edge cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from grapes grown near St. Helena and in the Oak Knoll district of the Napa Valley. Hard on the heels of the award winning 2004 the latest '05 is showing equally well. More restrained in style but with appealing peppery, black fruit aromas with flecks of vanilla. On the palate it is silky with dusty, peppery, red fruit flavours and just a touch of vanilla. Solid Napa Cabernet at a reasonable price.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc Private Bin 2007
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandIt's not hard to love the intense passion fruit and melon nose with just a touch of jalapeno. It has terrific mid-palate freshness with plenty more melon, guava, and citrus/ granny smith flavours. Intense, yet cool and delicate. Well done for the price and you can serve it with a variety of foods.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Barefoot Merlot NV
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesRound soft and sweet in the Yellowtail style, with coriander anise and leafy notes throughout. Simple round commercial red that should appeal for its price value quotient.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Beringer Chardonnay 2005
Napa Valley, California, United StatesIn homage to the fine work and style transformation going on at Beringer under winemaker Laurie Hook's watch, and her mentor Ed Sbragia, it might be appropriate to call this '05 Napa chardonnay "Ed Lite." Certainly it hits all the right notes from its leesy, nutty, honey peach aromas, to its creamy, spicy textures. On the palate it's fresh with spicy, nutty, baked apple notes and a creamy lees finish. Both elegant and balanced, and very much a food/restaurant wine. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $28.15 | 750ml |
| QC | $29.80 | 750ml |
| NF | $29.97 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Fat Bastard Merlot 2005
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceYouthful Euro red with a dusty, spicy, licorice nose. The entry is similarly dry with peppery, resiny, vanilla and black cherry fruit and dry tannins. Like the last vintage the style is dry calling for a rustic meat dish to disperse the tannins.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $18.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Outback Chase Shiraz 2006
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaOpen, pruny, compost aromas with black fruit undertones. Sweet, round entry with black plum, blueberries, chocolate and spicy, cedar and compost flavours. Simple round,warm, sweet, commercial finish.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Outback Chase Cabernet Sauvignon Coonawarra 2001
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaDeep red in colour with a sweaty leather slightly oxidative nose with bits of cherries and prunes. Similar palate flavours with good concentration and weight but drying out in the back end. Ready to drink now.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Outback Chase Chardonnay 2006
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaRiverland fruit that is night harvested is the source here. Another simple, commercial-style chardonnay of no particular pedigree. Lean, fresh, acidic mid-palate with green apple skin and pineapple undertones.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Outback Chase Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaSmoky, leafy, cherry nose with bits of bay leaf. The entry is warm, soft and sweet with minimal tannins. More sweet cherry, vanilla, and leather flavours with a round sweet finish. Simple straight-up 'Yellowtail'-style red.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Laurel Glen Reds 2004
California, United StatesLaurel Glen Reds is what California wine should be about. Hedonistic, rich round soft and tasty, neither complicated nor over-extracted it is a pleasure to drink. Old vines make up this Mediterranean-style blend that mixes zinfandel (60%), carignane (30%) and petite syrah (10%). A bookend (at least in the B.C. market) to Washington State's, House Wine. Look for a big earthy red packed with dark cherry fruit and chunky, if soft tannins. The finish is splashed with spice and vanilla. Fine value here for a wine that will have wide appeal.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.30 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
House Wine Red 2005
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesK Vintners draws from two excellent grape growing sites in the Columbia Valley: Wahluke Slope and Walla Walla Valley to produce a rich fat, earthy meaty red wine that as big as house. It's soft enough to have wide appeal but plenty rich for those who need a big red wine for their food. Plums blueberries and barnyard make this an impressive bottle for the price.Prices:| BC | $21.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Brecciarolo Rosso Piceno 2003
Marche, ItalyRosso Piceno comes off the hillsides of Marche from within the province of Ascoli Piceno. The blend is 55/45 montepulciano/sangiovese and that sees some time in neutral French oak. The nose is aromatic with floral, spice and earth tones. On the palate it's fresh with red currant and spicy flavour and a touch of almond. A dryish, Euro-red built for the dinner table.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bridlewood Syrah 2004
Central Coast, California, United StatesBridlewood does whole berry fermentation in open top tanks before ageing its syrah in French oak. Look for light floral overtones on the nose with bits of vanilla and milk chocolate. The palate is extremely inviting with pleasing meaty dark cassis fruit streaked with cool hints of violets and licorice. Well made uncomplicated, easy drinking at a great price.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.99 | 750ml |
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20 October 2007
89PTS
Francis Ford Coppola Presents Diamond Collection Black Label Claret Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
California, United StatesTight, cool, fresh nose of blackberry jam, licorice, cedar and tobacco. The entry is smooth with warm black fruit/cassis flavours flecked with a bit of chocolate and black pepper. Definitely drinkable now but will hold another two or three years. The wine is made primarily from grapes grown at Napa, Sonoma, and the warmer El Dorado AVA. It's all handpicked fruit that is barrel-aged in French oak.Prices:| BC | $30.06 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Francis Ford Coppola Presents Diamond Collection Black Label Claret Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
California, United StatesThe Coppola 'claret' blends cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, merlot, malbec, and cabernet franc. Typically smooth and rich on entry with cedar, spice and black fruit aromas the flavours are similar with a touch of cherry cola and vanilla in the finish. The winery suggests lamb chops with a mustard-herb rub or beef tenderloin.Prices:| BC | $30.06 | 750ml |
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19 October 2007
87PTS
Beato Bartolomeo Breganze Prosecco Extra Dry Vino Spumante NV
Veneto, ItalyFragrant open pear, green apple nose spiked with quince and a hint of petrol. Round, full and slightly sweet on the palate at entry with a creamy, light mousse. More baked pear, floral, marzipan, green apple flavours. An attractive, stylish luncheon bubble or serve solo before dinner.Prices:| BC | $19.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.30 | 750ml |
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17 October 2007
87PTS
Mark West Pinot Noir 2005
Central Coast, California, United StatesMuch like last year with a smoky, rootsy, carrot top nose flecked with strawberry, cherry and vanilla notes. The entry is soft and warm with more spicy, rootsy, black fruit, and smoky celery salt flavours. Solid value, affordable American-style pinot with good fruit.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.95 | 750ml |
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09 October 2007
89PTS
Leopard Frog Kiss & Tell Reserve 2005
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaTobacco leaf, peppery, black olive, smoky, rootsy, roasted pepper nose with some saddle leather and blackberry underneath. Dry, round, supple palate with balanced acidity. Peppery, resin, licorice, plum, cedar, tobacco and gamey flavours with a vanilla, orange peel and mocha finish. Solid, somewhat unusual blend that is drinkable now with meat but should improve for 1-2 years as it dissipates the remaining tannins.Prices:| BC | $41.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Leopard Frog Tribe 2005
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaSmoky, meaty, spicy, peppery, cedar, black cherry, licorice root and mocha aromas. Dry, round, full and fresh palate with light tannins. Juicy black cherry, plum, cedar, spicy, peppery, vanilla, licorice, gamey flavours. Good fruit and freshness on the finish if a tad tart. Drink now with game or keep a year.Prices:| BC | $21.95 | 750ml |
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08 October 2007
89PTS
Bommarito Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe '03 Bommarito is back on track with the clean pretty, Napa cabernet nose. Plums, spicy cherries and licorice with pepper and cardamom all figure in the taste. Soft, round and a touch dry with cassis licorice and vanilla flavours. Solid value and could be outstanding with a price correction to reflect the dollar.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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07 October 2007
89PTS
Ortas Prestige Rasteau Côtes du Rhone Villages 2004
Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe Ortas Prestige is the full meal deal from the Cotes du Rhone Villages - Rasteau. Big dark and brooding, you can smell scorched earth and barnyard of the mourvèdre and syrah underneath the fruit of the Grenache. Big ripe peppery and pack with juicy black fruit and gripp-y tannins it's a red made for winter and hearty meals.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Golden Mile Riesling Luckhurst Family Vineyards 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGolden Mile cleverly adds a bit of orange muscat to the riesling and the wine soars. Dry and, yes a bit slate-ty, this is an attractive riesling on many fronts. The acidity is youthful and at this point bracing for most but this is the road to travel down. Let me count the food you can serve with this if you can get the bo0ttle to the table before it's all gone. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
CedarCreek Dry Riesling 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe '06 riesling is a delightful drop of juicy floral, lime rind and mineral aromas and flavours. The mid-palate is clean and fresh with grapefruit, green apple and orange citrus notes. The winery suggests saffron lobster risotto or ginger crab cakes. Bring it on. Great value here.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Jackson-Triggs Riesling Dry Proprietors' Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig perfumed nose of orange blossom and oily lime zest. The entry is smooth and just off-dry with more mineral lime rind and citrus rind notes. Crisp, well made if slightly lacking in intensity. Ready to drink. Serve before dinner with appetizer bites.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Elephant Island Orchard Wines Cherry 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe nose is a bit dull and oxidative. On the palate there is a fine expression of cherry fruit flavours in a dry savoury environment. They say you can serve this with any imaginable dish. I think venison would be my choice. Well done and don't forget to chill it off room temperature.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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78PTS
Elephant Island Orchard Wines Pear 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is made with 100 per cent organic Naramata grown pears. There is a touch of oxidation on the nose, a common problem with pears. The palate is light with somewhat dirty fruit flavours with hints of plastic shower curtain. Not up to snuff.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Elephant Island Orchard Wines Fortified Framboise NV
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEasily the best fruit wine made at Elephant Island. Almost pure raspberry with just a hint of alcohol from the fortification. Round sweet and balanced this will have a great deal of appeal for the chocolate dessert crowd. Well made. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Stonehill Zweigelt 2005
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaClean red fruit nose with just a hint of barnyard. On the palate the fruit is fresh with firm tannins and bits of dried herbs, licorice and leafy note. The finish is warm and persistent in what is a simple, medium-bodied, red with a slightly tannic finish that is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $16.90 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Lang Vineyards Maréchal Foch 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNo big changes here but I assume it popular otherwise why foch. Look for the characteristic earthy, tobacco, meaty, cherry aromas and flavours. There's a touch of sweetness throughout its cranberry, smoky roasted tomato, flavours. An easy-sipping, meaty style red.Prices:| BC | $17.90 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Lang Vineyards Grand Pinot 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLang makes a fun little blend of lemberger, pinot noir and pinot meunier. This is a bit like Beaujolais on steroids. Soft, ripe, maybe even a touch volatile with bright candied fruit and prominent acidity in the finish. Ready- to- drink.Prices:| BC | $14.90 | 750ml |
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06 October 2007
86PTS
Pisse-Dru Beaujolais 2006
Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceThe '06 Pisse-Dru has the classic strawberry / raspberry fruit nose and palate. The entry is soft and slippery showing less acidity than usual and more inviting smooth pleasing fruit in the finish. Notes of strawberry and licorice linger in the finish. Perfect for a long lunch in French restaurant.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.35 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Schloss Johannisberger Gelblack Riesling Qualitatswein 2006
Rheingau, GermanyA classic full-bodied riesling or at least as full bodies as a riesling can be. Love the fragrant nose and bright fruit flavours including peachy apple fruit and dash of minerals. Intensity with finesse and delicacy all in one wine. Delicious.Prices:| BC | $32.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Bouchard Aîné & Fils Beaujolais Les Coteaux 2005
Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceBright, floral, fresh nose with cherry cranberry aromas. The entry is warm and relatively full for gamay with more spicy, strawberry cherry jam, citrus flavours. Simple well-made straight-up Beaujolais at an affordable price. Serve with pork or turkey dishes.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.57 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Hillside Old Vines Gamay Reserve 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMore pinot than gamay on the nose with quite a gamey, barnyard, Band-aid aroma. The entry is warm with ripe, peppery soft red fruit flavours. The finish is pleasant and smooth with more meaty fruit and white pepper notes. Best with bird dishes and fall vegetables.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pisse-Dru Beaujolais 2005
Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceSlightly tired nose of spicy, strawberry/cherry licorice fruit. Fine richness on the palate, typical for 2005, with lemony licorice, strawberry mineral notes. Warm soft round finish. Well made.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.35 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Argiolas Perdera Monica di Sardegna 2005
Cagliari, Sardinia, ItalyLove the slightly aromatic floral fruity nose that emanates the monica grape of Sardegna. On the palate the wine is a mix of spicy, dried herbs, barnyard and earthy notes with bit of band-aid. There is a subtly of hand here that reveals in a modest way a peppery, black fruit with a touch of mocha and chocolate. We love the savoury serve me with food aftertaste. Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Voluptuous 2004
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVoluptuous is merlot with one third cabernet franc. The nose is a smoky, tobacco affair with just a touch barnyard. The entry is dry with the textures gripp-y with mostly ripe fruit flecked with bits of dried herbs and pepper. Not as dry as last year, thankfully, and with a bit more fruit. Definitely tracking in the right direction.Prices:| BC | $27.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Herder Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhen you have 76 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 24 per cent cabernet franc in the same B.C. wine blend you are bound to get the spicy, savoury garrigue black sage and olive notes that mark our cran-cherry- flavoured, local reds. A big slab of beef would help this wine at the dinner table otherwise it needs three to five years of ageing and even then it's will always be dominated by minty green olive fruit.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2004
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaIt hard not to like the Luigi Bosca Reserva cab with its inviting mocha vanilla savory red fruit nose. The entry is spicy and rich with minty/eucalyptus, licorice plummy fruit notes on the nose and palate. The fruit is deep and ark with plenty of density and length. A wonderful, spicy full-bodied red for meaty dishes.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Desert Hills Gamay 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig and brawny the 06 is much like the 05 with plenty of meaty, black cherry, licorice aromas flecked with pepper. The entry is soft and fruity with more spicy, meaty, black cherry, coffee mocha, mineral flavours. More like a light pinot noir than gamay but it works.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Angus The Bull Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
South Australia, AustraliaOpen generous nose of cassis and olives with bits of smoky, savoury leather. Much better palate this year with less of that glaring acidity. Look for round blueberry/cassis fruit with an undercurrent of dried herbs and mint. Break out the steaks.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $21.88 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Pelee Island Pinot Gris 2005
Pelee Island, Ontario, CanadaA little bit of skin contact gives this southern Ontario gris a hint of green apple skin mixed with lemony crisp fruit. A light luncheon style white you can pair with simple chicken dishes, soup or even fresh goat cheese or simply sip solo on the patio.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.69 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaAnother tasty Argentine cabernet that overcomes its savoury minty origins with plummy rip red fruit and plenty of licorice. The palate is full and round with more sweet vanilla and peppery, vanilla and roasted peppers to fill out the back end. Another candidate for roast lamb or beef.Prices:| BC | $18.95 | 750ml |
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04 October 2007
89PTS
Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2004
Tuscany, ItalyThe '04 Tuscan growing season was much warmer than the cool-ish '03 leading to sangiovese with more structure and backbone to accompany its fine acidity. Look for a beautiful fragrant, floral nose, black cherry fruit and a dollop of milk chocolate underneath. There is a tiny drop of syrah in this wine to add a bit spice in the finish. Very fine.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Peter Lehmann Weighbridge Unwooded Chardonnay 2006
South Australia, AustraliaConsistently fresh on nosing with bright floral tones a touch of lees and citrus. The entry is tart with mineral grapefruit rind, and baked apple notes. Fairly tart with a twist of lemon rind twist in the end. Best with food.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Palo Alto Reserva 2006
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe '06 blend of cabernet sauvignon, syrah and carmenère comes in a slightly denser package than the '05. It's has all the bell pepper and bay leaf character but with more pepper and plummy, black fruits. A step up from the 2005, with a little less acidity poking through. Serve with simply prepared grilled meats. Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Palo Alto Reserva 2005
Valle del Maule, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe blend is cabernet sauvignon, syrah and carmenère. It's all very Chile with its deep colour and medicinal minty, bay leave nose. The fruit is a mix of leafy black currants with bits of cranberry, chocolate and coffee. Round supple and with just a twist of lemon in the finish.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Faustino Selección de Familia Rioja Crianza 2002
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainGamey, meaty, chocolate, black cherry, floral, smoky peppery nose with a streak of barnyard. Soft, round, dry and forward with some finesse. Spicy, cherry, plum, tobacco, smoky, meaty, rootsy flavours with a touch of Band-Aid. Very light tannins on the finish. Solid food wine ready for any meat dish.Prices:| CDN | $0.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Monte Llano Old Vine Tempranillo Rioja 2004
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainCorked, try another bottlePrices:| CDN | $0.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Colegiata Tinto 2004
Toro, Castilla-Leon, SpainSmoky, earthy, coffee, tobacco, black cherry jam, meaty, pruny nose. Soft, round, supple but chunky palate. Spicy, licorice, black cherry, tobacco, pruny, meaty flavours with a bit of tobacco and cooked cherry on the finish. A rustic, warm style but has some intensity.Prices:| CDN | $0.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Urban Oak Ribera del Duero 2003
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainSpicy, peppery, meaty, black cherry, floral, briar nose with a smoky sausage note. Round, supple, full palate with balanced acidity. Spicy, licorice, smoky, black cherry, meaty, tobacco flavours. Fruity with a warm finish, very drinkable style.Prices:| CDN | $0.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Tormaresca Torcicoda Primitivo 2003
Salento, Puglia, ItalyAfter the vineyard reorganisation Torcicoda vines average some 15 years. The nose is slightly feral with peppery, plum fruits and a wisp of almonds. The entry is rich; the tannins are smooth and chalky. On the palate the flavours are a mix of wild game (Salento), ripe black berry jam with licorice and vanilla. Big blockbuster style red that spends just over a year in oak barrels. Good value.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tormaresca Neprica 2004
Puglia, ItalyThe clever Neprica blends ne-groamaro, pr-imitivo and ca-bernet sauvignon to capture the warm, almost tropical essence of southern Italy. Chocolate, licorice and black fruit with flecks of mineral and anise make this a perfect introduction to the New South wrapped in an earthy, inviting style. A solid performer spaghetti Bolognese, grilled sausages and flank steak.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.95 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.97 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tormaresca Chardonnay 2005
Puglia, ItalyTormaresca chardonnay blends fruit from both key Tormaresca estates: Bocca di Lupo in Murgia, and Masseria Maime in Salento. It's partially barrel fermented which accounts for its buttery peach aromas and flavours, but you can also taste the minerals and the nearby sea influence on the nose and palate. A soft, fresh, ripe apple/citrus chardonnay with an elegant demeanour that reflects its European origins in flavour and style. Try with sole or other light, simply prepared fish dishes.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.19 | 750ml |
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03 October 2007
91PTS
Planeta Syrah 2005
Sicily, ItalyIf you are more of a red wine person than look to the Planeta Syrah 2005. The vineyard is now 13 years old and that, in combination with only 30 per cent new French oak, yields a big, inviting red with smoky, barnyard, licorice root and roasted mulberry notes. The texture is supple with plenty of warm generous, black berry jam, and minty bay leaf and licorice flavours. At Planeta they suggest you pair it with a piece of mature Pecorino cheese. I can't wait.Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Planeta Santa Cecilia 2005
Sicily, ItalyI love the ripe plummy fruity Planeta Santa Cecilia 2005. The entry is smooth but dry with good acidity. It's almost Bordelais elegance is a Planeta hallmark. The flavours are intense black fruit and spicy Christmas cake, pepper, licorice and coffee. This all néro d'Avola is best served with robust dishes of grilled meats or lamb.Prices:| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Planeta Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2006
Sicily, ItalyPlaneta has hit a home run with Cerasuolo. The first DOCG wine in Sicily is a 60/40 blend of néro d'Avola and frappato. The fruit is fabulous - red berries and strawberries - the texture smooth and mysteriously pinot noir like. The finish is long ands stylish with spice and licorice undertones. Very impressive wine for the money. Try it with grilled shellfish. Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Planeta Cometa 2006
Sicily, ItalyAt the other end of the white wine spectrum is Planeta Cometa 2006. The 'comet' is made with 100 Fiano and it's a wow! wine. Intense, refreshing and packed with a wide spectrum of tropical floral flavours including peach, pineapple, apricot skin, and orange citrus. Perfect minerality with an undercurrent of Mediterranean garrigue. Elegant stylish. Bravo Italia.Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $35.25 | 750ml |
| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Planeta Chardonnay 2005
Sicily, ItalyPlaneta Chardonnay 2005 the first IGT Chardonnay (Indicazione Geografica Tipica Sicilia) was first produced in 1994. It's yellow colour and old fashion oak styling is somewhat alarming but the wine is extremely well made. The nose is has a pronounced honey, crème brûlée, creamy nose. On the palate it is rich and warm with peachy, hazelnut flavours with citrus and butterscotch aftertaste. For lovers of big robust, chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $42.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $36.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Planeta Merlot 2004
Sicily, ItalyThe good thing about Sicilian merlot is you probably don't have any preconceived notions. In the case of Planeta Merlot 2004 the nose is almost aromatic, with spicy, fresh cranberry and mineral notes. The flavours are similar with a smooth, juicy, mid-palate flecked with chocolate, bay leaf notes. A stylish, cool, in the Maipo Valley, St. Emilion-style, red that should have wide appeal. Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Planeta Alastro 2006
Sicily, ItalyA mix of grecanico and chardonnay delivers a viognier -like Planeta Alastro 2006. Look for plenty of lively melon fruit with floral mineral undertones. There's fine intensity of floral flavours, firm acidity and a clean crisp finish. Grilled calamari would be a great dish here. Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Planeta La Segreta Rosso 2006
Sicily, ItalyThe workhorse Planeta wines are the La Segreta blends - both the bianco and rosso. Now at just under the $20 mark they should have wide appeal. The Planeta La Segreta Rosso 2006 is a curious blend of néro d'Avola with merlot, syrah and cabernet franc. The nose is fresh sporting dried herbs, cassis, and smoky licorice cherry notes. The entry is soft with supple tannins and bright red berry fruits and spice. Elegant and fresh there is a whiff of dried herbs in the aftertaste. Impressive food wine. Planeta suggests fennel flavoured grilled sausages as a pairing.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Planeta La Segreta Bianco 2006
Sicily, ItalyThe workhorse Planeta wines are the La Segreta blends - both the bianco and rosso. Now at just under the $20 mark they should have wide appeal. The La Segreta Bianco 2006 is shockingly fresh with big mineral floral aromas and bits of honey and citrus. It's fresh on entry with tart citrus/orange rind and mineral flavours. Great for soups, cheese and lighter meats.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $0.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Trivento Amado Sur Malbec Bonarda Syrah 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaA new listing form Trivento now well established as a quality for money producer. This is a big rich savoury malbec, further bolster by a 30 per cent mix of bonarda and syrah. The entry is sweet and spicy with peppery mid-palate tones and ripe plummy dark fruit flavours. Lots of smoke and vanilla. Good if a bit-like an Australia wannabe. Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Jackson-Triggs Shiraz Proprietors' Reserve 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe JT shiraz has enjoyed much acclaim over the years from this writer and the latest effort continues to impress. Typically it offers up big generous blackberry blueberry fruit on the nose with just a hint of briary sage underbrush. The front end is loaded with peppery, vanilla black fruit flavours streaked with mocha coffee and some elevated Oz-like acidity. Very warm, peppery finish. Should be just fine with turkey.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Goats do Roam (Red) 2005
South AfricaThe latest Goats is much like its predecessors with an open gamy, meaty, licorice plum jam nose. The entry is smooth and supple; the flavours a mix of meaty spicy black cherry/licorice flavours. The finish has a touch of acidity that seems to set off the ripe fruit and dusty tannins. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Leopard's Leap The Lookout Chenin Blanc - Chardonnay - Colombard 2006
Western Cape, South AfricaA clean nose is great start. Fresh notes of citrus, green apple and honey aromas and flavours. A dry, lip-smacking finish suggests oysters, clams or simple white fish dishes.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Antinori Solaia Annata Diversa 2002
Tuscany, ItalyA blend of 85/15 cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc. There was no sangiovese used in 2002. Smoky, meaty, peppery, black olive, tobacco, salty, earthy, resin, cassis, menthol, vanilla aromas. Dry, round, tight palate but rich with some grainy, tight tannin. Black berry, cassis, chocolate, peppery, tobacco, cranberry, meaty, licorice root flavours with some smoky, vanilla, roasted game and leather on the finish. Warm, slightly chunky style that will benefit from 1-3 years aging. Solid effort for a tough vintage.Prices:| BC | $135.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $109.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $129.95 | 750ml |
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November 2007