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Tastings: December 2007
31 December 2007
95PTS
Colgin IX Proprietary Red 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesColgin's 20 acre vineyard sits between 900-1400 feet above sea level. The rocky, low yielding hillside site is home to the 59/22/13/6 blend of cabernet sauvignon/merlot/cabernet franc/petit verdot. The colour is opaque. The nose, magnificent mix of juicy, fruity black cherry and finely chiselled acidity. The tannins are dense yet silky smooth - a real cult wine trademark. The flavours are layered and intense all playing on the rich fruit, dark chocolate theme with a minerality and acidity to balance the equation. Excellent New World red that should be best buy 2015. The winery released 1200 cases at $250 in April 2007.Prices:| US | $250.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Gallo Family Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2006
California, United StatesTight lemon rind, grapefruit nose. Intense mouth puckering style with more lemon rind flavours and a dry, grassy finish. Very simple tart white wine. Needs a chicken salad sandwich to smooth out the edges.Prices:| BC | $8.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.69 | 750ml |
| SK | $9.29 | 750ml |
| MB | $9.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.45 | 750ml |
| QC | $10.45 | 750ml |
| NB | $10.21 | 750ml |
| NS | $10.21 | 750ml |
| PEI | $10.21 | 750ml |
| NF | $10.21 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Camaraderie Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Washington, United StatesThe 03 cabernet boasts 15 per cent merlot. The cab is mix of fruit from several vineyards include Fred Artz on Red Mountain, Paul Champoux at Mercer Ranch, Len Parris at Chandler Reach, and Butch Milbrandt at Clifton. Lightly 'lifted' fruit tones of black cherry with vanilla mark its nose. The entry is smooth with a touch of volatility and Brett yet somehow appealing. The plate is rich and full with black fruit and smoky, peppery, resiny notes. It's ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Valdivieso Pinot Noir Reserva 2006
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThis is delicious sweet pinot with a twist of spice. The nose is strawberries and cream with just a dusting of peppery and cardamom. The entry is soft with a dash of carrot top, more strawberry and earthy tealeaf, compost notes. Good value in a warm New World style.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2006
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Veramonte sauvignon sports the Casablanca Kiwi style. Fresh juicy grapefruit and gooseberry with a dose of green apple skin. The flavours are similar with bits of green peach and kiwi fruit. Elegant styling and a perfect seafood wine. Bring on the mussels. Good value.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.25 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Black Chook Shiraz Viognier 2006
South Australia, AustraliaLifted open confected fruit nose that smacks of floral viognier notes. On the palate there is plenty of that peppery, licorice, blueberry fruit with a touch of cola. A big noisy red that's best served with roasted meats and chicken.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Twisted Tree Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGrassy, baked apple notes and showing a bit of maderized character. The entry is soft with a touch of sweetness with more baked apple and asparagus flavours. Not really typical sauvignon at this point. Look for the next vintage.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tarapaca Cabernet Sauvignon / Shiraz La Cuesta Vineyard 2005
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileAlways a solid effort, the '05 edition is similar to the last with its crushed leaf and herbal nose mixed with cassis and licorice. The entry is round and soft before fading into coffee black fruit and leather finish. A balanced barbecue red selling at a fair price.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.15 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Rocca delle Macie Occhio A Vento Vermentino 2006
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyLovely floral, pear aromas mixed with butter, lemon and white peach aromas. Round, dry, soft palate with apple skin, pear, lemon, butter and quince flavours. Good solid fruit core that could use a touch more acidity for freshness.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.95 | 750ml |
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30 December 2007
86PTS
Gehringer Brothers Desert Sun 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCandied, floral fruit nose. Soft, sweet-ish, baked apple, pink grapefruit and pear aromas with a touch of orange. More pink grapefruit, floral orange flavours and creamsicle on the finish. Clean Gehringer style with a touch of sugar in the finish. Takeout Chinese is the ticket here.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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29 December 2007
86PTS
Folonari Shiraz IGT Sicilia 2005
Sicily, ItalyA deep coloured, Southern Italian shiraz. The nose is mix of tar and rubber with bits of licorice and black fruit. The palate is soft and spicy with similar flavours of licorice chocolate and black cherries. The finish is warm and spicy with just a hint of vanilla and espresso. Simple straight-up red for everyday use. Served with grilled meats or spaghetti and meatballs.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Feudo Arancio Syrah 2004
Sicily, ItalyBright, fresh, elegant, cool styling with meaty, peppery, tobacco, black cherry jam aromas. On the palate the fruit is ripe showing black cherry and chocolate with floral, smoky licorice flavours. Love the balance and weight in this wine. Fine value.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gehringer Brothers Schönburger Gewürztraminer Classic 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlways exotic with spicy, muscat-y/floral, lychee aromas and a fresh, lemony, mineral underside. The entry is soft and clean with more lychee nut fruit, spicy and oily citrus rind. Plenty of fruit and acidity holds the fish. Built for Indian or Thai food. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gehringer Brothers Dry Ehrenfelser Classic 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAnother winner from Gehringer. Bright fresh floral spicy nose with flecks of orange and mineral. The entry is soft and round, the acidity firm and the flavours a mix of peaches, baked apple and mineral flavours. Good value here and a perfect match of Indian cuisine.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Gehringer Brothers Ehrenfelser Classic 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOne of the better ehrenfelsers in the valley likely because it never tries to do too much. It is round ripe and fresh with a creamy orange creamsicle aromas and flavours. The finish is off dry and perfectly balanced by good acidity and minerality. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Gehringer Brothers Auxerrois Classic 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTypically fresh and clean with bits of green apple and nectarine. Fresh green peach flavours with butter, mineral and green apple skin undertones. Easy-sipping dry B.C. white. Best with simply prepared seafood dishes.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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28 December 2007
87PTS
De Toren Fusion V 2004
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaMeaty, smoky, big Brett-y, warm tobacco leaf, barnyard, sweaty horse saddle, chocolate, cassis. Rich, round, supple, forward palate but warm with some acidity poking through. Chocolate, stewed prune, Brett-y, meaty, coffee, peppery, cassis, cigar, saddle leather flavours. Intense if you like this style.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Prunotto Moscato d' Asti 2005
Alba, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyCooked orange peel, marzipan, floral, buttery, spicy nose, a bit mature. Ripe, round, fresh, effervescent palate with orange, spicy, canned pear and pineapple flavours. Good acidity and sugar balance with a honey, orange marzipan finish.Prices:| BC | $0.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Antinori Tignanello 2004
Tuscany, ItalySmoky, meaty, peppery, black cherry, orange nose with flecks of menthol, cassis, tobacco and sweaty saddle leather aromas. Rich, round, dry, grainy tannin palate with some intensity. Vanilla, mocha, peppery, black cherry, cassis jam, tobacco, saddle leather, resin, minty flavours. Good concentration and balance with a long finish. A solid Tignanello that will require 4-7 years to fully mature.Prices:| BC | $96.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $90.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $90.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $95.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $209.00 | 1500ml |
| ON | $57.00 | 375ml |
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90PTS
Prunotto Barolo Bussia 2000
Piedmont, ItalySmoky, tarry, rose petal, tobacco nose with coffee, barnyard, leather and prune aromas. Rich, round, dry, somewhat tannic palate and warm. More resiny, coffee, vanilla, black cherry jam flavours with bits of tar, tobacco, spice, truffle and leather. Still young, needs to shed some tannins but has enough structure to improve with 3-5 years additional aging.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $68.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Schloss Johannisberger Rosalack Riesling Auslese 2006
Rheingau, GermanyFresh lime, floral, honey, peach, green apple, honeysuckle, mineral aromas. Rich, round, full, elegant and crisp with balanced sweetness. Bright green apple, lime, honey, apricot, pineapple, mineral flavours. Great finesse and length, delicious drinking now but will repay mid-term ageing.Prices:| BC | $94.95 | 375ml |
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0PTS
Schloss Johannisberger Silberlack Riesling Trocken Qualittatswein 2006
Rheingau, GermanyCorked, try anotherPrices:| BC | $78.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Schloss Johannisberger Grunlack Riesling Spatlese 2006
Rheingau, GermanyHoney, peach, red apple, orange, slate, floral aromas. Rich, full, elegant, round palate with good sweetness and creamy acidity. Orange, honey, lime, clover, red apple, wet slate flavours. Long, rich, creamy finish. Very ripe, full style will drink well over the next 5 years. Delicious now.Prices:| BC | $52.95 | 750ml |
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27 December 2007
88PTS
Parker Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Terra Rossa 2003
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaBig green olive, briny, tobacco leaf, resin, peppery, vanilla, dill pickle, light Band-Aid, cassis leaf, leather aromas, quite herbaceous. Round, rich, supple palate with some grainy tannins but warm with elevated acidity. Lots of smoky oak, vanilla, coffee, green olive, cassis, peppery, resin, tobacco flavours. Has good intensity and full palate but acidity and alcohol are a bit too high. Needs 2-4 years to soften.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
La Spinetta Moscato d'Asti Bricco Vigneto Biancospino 2007
Piedmont, ItalyRose petal, lychee, spicy, citrus, pear skin, mineral, ginger aromas, very fresh. Rich, round, fresh and crisp with delicate bubbles. Peach, rose, spicy, ginger, soapy, pear, mineral, orange flavours. Great muscat flavours and delicacy. The sweetness level is balanced and fun for sipping or with dessert.Prices:| AB | $24.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Ruffino Il Ducale 2004
Tuscany, ItalyThe Ducale name is well known to Chianti drinker but this Il Ducale (80 per cent sangiovese 20 per cent cabernet) is a modern twist on an old name. Look for a meaty, smoky, Brett-y, warm tobacco leaf nose with flecks of barnyard, sweaty leather saddle, chocolate and cassis. Rich, round, supple, forward palate but warm with some acidity poking through. Chocolate, stewed prune, Brett-y, meaty, coffee, peppery, cassis, cigar, saddle leather flavours. Intense Tuscan red at not so intense a price.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $22.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Antinori Solaia 2003
Tuscany, ItalyAn impressive Solaia nose. Cassis, floral, meaty, saddle leather, tobacco, smoky game notes with vanilla, barnyard and coffee aromas. Ripe, rich, round, supple, slightly grainy, chalky tannins. Vanilla, coffee, peppery, meaty, smoky, cassis, black cherry, eucalyptus, floral, mineral, tobacco, leather flavours. Long, fat, rich finish if a bit warm but good acidity balance. Will improve with 5-7 years bottle aging but drinkable now with beef or veal steak.Prices:| BC | $150.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $140.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $150.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Scurati Nero d'Avola 2006
Sicily, ItalyBlack olive, floral, herbal, resin, black pepper, savoury, meaty nose. Soft, round, plush palate with light tannins. Peppery, smoky, savoury, licorice root, black cherry, orange peel, mineral flavours. Full, warm, slightly rust young palate. Good for lamb stew or keep a year.Prices:| BC | $23.90 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Domaine de Sancet 2006
Gascony, FranceLemon rind, sweaty grapefruit, mineral, gooseberry, grassy aromas. Ripe, round, full bodied with good acidity. Gooseberry, grapefruit, lemon, grassy flavours with a touch of oily texture. Good solid shellfish wine for the money. Great valuePrices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Alain Brumont Gros Manseng-Sauvignon 2006
Gascony, FranceGrassy, mineral, lemon oil, cooked grapefruit, floral, pear aromas. Round, fresh, crisp but slightly oily with lemon, gooseberry, grapefruit, fig, honey and mineral flavours. Good intensity and length for matching with seafood. Good quality.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Norton Sangiovese 2005
Mendoza, ArgentinaPeppery, spicy, black cherry jam, meaty, licorice, floral nose. Soft, dry, slightly rustic, warm palate. Earthy, peppery, spicy, black cherry, orange, licorice flavours. Full, slightly tart finish. Very solid, try with steak.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Conundrum 2005
California, United StatesHuge floral, spicy, peach, citrus, honey, grassy, gooseberry nose. Rich, round, crisp palate but a bit sweet. Honey, creamsicle, ginger, floral, citrus, peach pit flavours. Great intensity if a bit sweet. Good sipper or with spicy food.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $26.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $28.55 | 750ml |
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23 December 2007
85PTS
Finca Flichman Malbec Oak Aged 2006
Mendoza, ArgentinaSmoky, savoury, black fruit nose. As per usual the entry is soft and the textures round and the black licorice and spicy fruit plentiful. Always good value the latest edition doesn't disappoint for a mere $11. The modern-day pizza chicken spaghetti red that delivers character and flavour for the price.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Mission Hill Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen, pungent Marlborough-style nose with a mix of gooseberry, lime rind and just a touch of grass. Rich and full-bodied with fine freshness and ripe pink grapefruit flavours and more lime rind. Like the previous edition this works well with west coast shellfish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Diego Murillo Malbec 2006
Alto Valle del Río Negro, Rio Negro, Patagonia, ArgentinaYouthful purple colour with the typical spicy, meaty, savoury nose. Not as reductive as previous versions showing more licorice and less rubber. It's reasonably soft and round in the mouth with a warm spicy meaty cherry chocolate flavour. Inexpensive, rustic red destined for barbecue ribs.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Don Miguel Gascon Malbec 2004
Mendoza, ArgentinaA new label from an old winery that will have a lot of appeal. Look for a soft smoky white pepper, meaty savoury licorice flavoured red with bits of black fruit and chocolate. Full bodied but balanced and with supple tannin. Fine value in inexpensive red wine. Grilled meats and roasts are the match.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cliff Lede Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Napa Valley, California, United StatesVery impressive fresh mineral passion fruit nose that's flecked with melon lees and mineral notes. The style is rich but not fat. Lots of mineral, honey, apricot and passion fruit with a dash of lime rind. Fresh balanced and surprisingly elegant for Napa. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $36.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $32.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Blasted Church Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh light, mineral bell pepper nose. The entry is dry and crisp but light and lacking intensity of flavour. Light clean, apple skin with grassy lemon notes and a dry finish. Simple style this time out.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandBig robust, passion fruit and lemon grass on the nose with a touch of pungent tinned asparagus. Full flavoured and rich on the palate and will stand up to strong shellfish dishes. Serve with mussels New Zealand style.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.15 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Funky Llama Malbec 2005
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaFresher this year but almost more Oz -like with elevated acidity and a thin mid-palate. Spicy resiny tart notes with a thin spicy meaty, licorice finish. Too much funk not enough substance.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Trapiche Malbec 2006
Mendoza, ArgentinaOpen soft round sweet cherry fruit nose with chocolate and bits of dried herbs. Very soft, warm alcoholic mid-palate with a sweet, spicy, peppery, coffee, chocolate black fruit flavours. A bit too sweet for this taster but will have appeal for others, the finish is hot.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.75 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.49 | 750ml |
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22 December 2007
87PTS
Clarendelle Blanc 2005
Bordeaux, FranceSlate, grapefruit, melon, butter, light floral nose with an earthy note. Soft, round, rich, slightly oily palate with light lees, lemon, grapefruit, dry stone, slightly grassy hay flavours. Full with good acidity, slightly austere but may improve. This wine would be much better off under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Burrowing Owl Meritage 2005
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLeafy, orange peel, saddle leather, green olive, peppery, barnyard, coffee aromas. Soft, dry, round palate with light tannins. Smoky, herbal, peppery, spicy, cassis, coffee, olive, dill, vanilla flavours. Warm, slightly tart, milk chocolate, bitter oak finish. Solid, needs a few years to round out.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Chateau Janon Entre-Deux-Mers 2006
Entre-Deux-Mers, Bordeaux, FranceLemon, grapefruit rind, mineral, light grassy aromas with a touch of seashell and matchstick. Round, moderately dry, fresh palate with grapefruit rind, gooseberry, light butter, lemon, slate flavours. Solid, simple, fresh style for seafood. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Château La Caussade 2003
Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux, Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, FranceSpicy, dusty, prune, coffee, black olive, cedar aromas. Dry, elegant, slightly tight and acidic palate but full with smoky, prune, black olive, cedar, Band-Aid, cassis flavours. Warm, full finish. Solid but a bit tart.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Castillo de Almansa Reserva 2003
Almansa, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainPeppery, spicy, smoky, meaty, tobacco leaf, coffee. Smooth, round, dry, slightly lean palate with black cherry, cedar bark, spicy, meaty, leather, smoky chocolate flavours with a bit of tannin to shed. Fresh barbeque wine.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.10 | 750ml |
| QC | $12.45 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gehringer Brothers Cabernet Franc Ice Wine Signature Series 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight ruby colour. Minty, cedar bark, stewed cherry, caramel, tobacco leaf aromas with a bit of matchstick. Elegant, round, slightly fat and sweet but soft acidity. Caramel, tobacco, menthol, earthy, cherry and orange flavours. Solid, good acidity on finish if a bit on the herbal side.Prices:| BC | $52.00 | 375ml |
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85PTS
Gehringer Brothers Cabernet Franc Late Harvest 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight ruby colour. Floral, menthol, cedar, resin, candied cherry nose. Soft, sweet, candied cherry, caramel, cedar, light tomato leaf flavours. Simple, soft style with an earthy finish.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 375ml |
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0PTS
Clarendelle Rouge 2003
Bordeaux, Francecorked, try anotherPrices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Jorge Ordonez Old Vines Garnacha de Fuego 2005
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainOpen floral, spicy, cherry kirsch, orange peel, peppery, saddle leather, Band-Aid aromas. Soft, round, supple, dry palate but a bit chunky. Floral, peppery, black cherry jam, orange, earthy, barnyard, spicy flavours. Tart, slightly tannic, chunky finish. Good for pork or turkey but may benefit with a year in bottle.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Paradise Ranch Merlot Whistler Icewine 2003
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAmber brown colour. Coffee, caramel, stewed cherry, leafy, minty, slightly volatile nose. Very sweet, soft, round, fat style with caramel, baked apple, cigar, maple, cedar bark flavours. Low acidity, sweet style for current consumption.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 200ml |
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81PTS
Paradise Ranch Pinot Noir Icewine 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGold, copper colour. Extremely volatile nose with burnt caramel, tobacco leaf aromas. Sweet, round, soft palate with tobacco, burnt match, coffee, hard caramel flavours. Far too volatile, sweet, slightly bitter finish.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 375ml |
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87PTS
Finca Luzon Jumilla Organic 2006
Jumilla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainSmoky, meaty, chocolate, peppery, cardamom, vanilla, spicy, cherry compote nose. Soft, round, supple, forward palate with balanced acidity. Peppery, coffee, cedar, earthy, spicy, cooked cherry, mocha flavours with a tart orange peel finish. Good solid meat wine.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Stellaport Elephant Island NV
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPort-style wine made exclusively from the Stella cherry and aged in French oak. Peppery, walnut, prune, cooked cherry, sweaty saddle, meaty, menthol, barnyard, cigar aromas. Round, fat, warm, medium sweetness with good acidity. Smoky, meaty, peppery, pruny, dried cherry, meaty, rancio, vanilla flavours. High acidity but very intense flavours with some light tannins in a somewhat oxidized style.Prices:| BC | $36.90 | 375ml |
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89PTS
Gonzalez Byass Nutty Solera Oloroso Medium Dry NV
Sherry Jerez - Manzanilla, SpainNutty, rancio, pecan shell, saddle leather, mineral and fig nose. Round, elegant style that is a touch warm but balanced. Slightly sweet with good acidity to balance out. Nutty, walnut, buttery, spicy, rancio flavours with a bit of date. Good length and intensity with finesse. Drink as an aperitif or as an after dinner treat. Great value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
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21 December 2007
85PTS
Calona Vineyards Pinot Blanc Artist Series Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh mineral, leesy nose with a buttery, citrus undercurrent. Similar flavours of with green apple skin pear, vanilla and round, oily buttery textures. Soft easy sipping style.Prices:| AB | $15.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.97 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.49 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sandhill Cabernet Merlot Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBright open aromas of earth, black fruit and tobacco with flecks of vanilla. Almost sweet on entry with firm dry mid-palate flavours of vanilla, minty/savoury black fruit with coffee and cedar spice. Rich mouth-filling red that needs roasted meats to tame its character.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tinhorn Creek Cabernet Merlot 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLovely soft, open nose of chocolate and coffee with bits of savoury black fruit. The entry is round and soft with spice, mocha, coffee, black fruit flavours. A solid mid-term red you can serve now with grilled meats and chicken.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blasted Church Pinot Gris 2006
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh, citrus, green apple, apricot skin aromas with bits of mineral. The entry is fresh and clean with ripe, red apple fruit flavours and just a touch of earth for balance. A solid effort that should pair well with a variety of seafood dishes.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.49 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Gehringer Brothers Pinot Gris Private Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTypically in the skinny fresh Gehringer style with bits of mineral lees and pear aromas. The palate is lively with lemongrass, green apple and spicy flavours with just a touch of oiliness in the finish.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gehringer Brothers Optimum Pinot Gris 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLovely fresh peaches and honeysuckle aromas on the nose and it carries straight on through to its weight mid-palate. We love the fresh mineral, honeyed, ripe, pear flavours all with a touch of earth. A very fine example of B.C. pinot gris. Good value when compared to the category.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Gray Monk Pinot Blanc 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRefreshing, green apple skin, mineral nose with bits of butter. Like the last edition it's super sweet on entry with candied lemon and baked apple, flavours. Very commercial sweet patio sipper.Prices:| BC | $16.49 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gray Monk Pinot Gris 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlways solid, the Gray Monk gris comes with a dash of colour and plenty of mineral honeyed green apple aromas. The entry is soft and warm and a touch sweet the flavours, candied baked apple with flecks of citrus. Would be a fine complement to spicy Asian dishes.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Hillside Cabernet Merlot 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCorkedPrices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lake Breeze Seven Poplars Meritage 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLook for a roasted tomato, coffee and leather nose with bits black currants. The texture is rich an jammy with more leafy black cherry, black olive and spicy mocha chocolate notes. Fairly rich and soft for the price. Good effort.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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20 December 2007
88PTS
Quails' Gate Maréchal Foch Limited Release Fortified Vintage 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFoch and Quails' gate go top together so it should come as no surprise to see a fortified edition from the winery. FVF as it's referred to, is made in a traditional fortified Port style using super ripe maréchal foch grapes. The mocha, coffee black fruit and chocolate flavours along with a touch of Christmas cake do an admirable job of imitating the real thing.Prices:| BC | $22.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wolf Blass Yellow Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
South Australia, AustraliaThe nose of this sales machine has changed over the years dropping the oak and exchanging it for more pencil lead, cedar and leather. Now fairly lean on the palate YL dabbles in blueberry and blackberry fruit with resin, cedar and savoury minty notes. Best with steak.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cockfighter's Ghost Verdelho 2006
Clare Valley, South Australia, AustraliaAmazingly clean and fresh. Simply picked, crushed, fermented and bottled. Skinny slightly herbaceous with tropical fruit undertones. Very New-Hunter. Perfect with shellfish. Prices:| NS | $24.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pooles Rock Semillon 2003
Hunter, New South Wales, AustraliaFour years later this sémillon is just awakening. Light crisp and fresh on the nose with bits of honey, lanolin and mineral/chalk/flint flavours. All citrus and fresh in the finish still just a baby.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Cockfighter's Ghost Semillon 2007
Hunter, New South Wales, AustraliaSemillon on sandy loam is the genesis for this super fresh, Hunter Valley white. A high quality low yielding harvest delivered pristine fruit to the press where it was simply crushed fermented and bottled by June. Look for a screamingly fresh white with lemon lime and tropical fruits throughout. Perfect for oysters.Prices:| US | $12.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaThe Vasse Felix cab is all Western Oz with its black colour, licorice, cigar butt, cedar and spicy black currant nose. The entry is a mix of lemon and dusty herbs and olives with an earthy, leathery finish. Elegant and dry but needs grilled meats to tame its savoury resiny notes. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon The Reserve 2005
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaCherries and chocolates dominate the nose of this sweet cabernet sauvignon. Kirsch and minty flavours dominate the mid-palate with cedar, spice and elevated acid in the aftertaste. An intense version of the regular Yellow Tail.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen sweet nose of lifted blueberry, cherry and cedar notes. Similar flavours mark the palate where the sweet fruit and acid fight it out in the aftertaste. Simple resiny, spicy hamburger red.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.15 | 750ml |
| NB | $13.23 | 750ml |
| NS | $13.49 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.48 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lindemans Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Coonawarra 2005
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaLook for black almost an opaque colour form this warmer than normal 2005 harvest. The Coonawarra Reserve is aged in American oak that seems to help lend a bit of fatness to the wine. Sweet blueberry and cedar fruit with bits tobacco, chocolate and earth. Bottle under screwcap it should work easily around the barbecue with either chicken or beef.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $16.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.25 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.60 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Gehringer Brothers Ehrenfelser Ice Wine Minus 9 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen waxy, dried apricot, marmalade, floral, spicy sausage, citrus nose. Rich, fat, round with big concentration. Big apricot, floral, spicy, buttery, citrus, waxy flavours. Good acidity and sugar balance on the finish if a touch warm. Wonderful expression of ehrenfelser.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tarapaca Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileThis wine continues to impress for the money. It has plenty of earthy, peppery, black fruit flavours flecked with chocolate, licorice and spice. The textures are smooth, if a bit warm but otherwise this is all you can expect for the price and then some. Best with grilled meat dishes. Good value.Prices:| BC | $10.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.70 | 750ml |
| QC | $10.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Long Flat Destinations Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaTight black fruit nose with bits of rosemary and resiny cedar notes. The entry is acidic with resiny black pepper and earthy cedar-y blueberry fruit. Skinny and warm with some acid and heat poking through back end. A mid-week, red best served with rustic foods.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Trapiche Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Cask 2004
Mendoza, ArgentinaIt's been several years since we seen this label still clinging to the 'Oak Cask' nomenclature. The nose is dry with earthy clove and cassis notes. The entry is sweet showing lifted cassis fruit and peppery savoury dry earthy flavours. Simple rustic red for the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $16.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Torres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainGran Coronas is a big jump up from Coronas in price and quality. The blend is 85/15 cabernet sauvignon and tempranillo and it's all estate grown fruit. The '03 offers a mix of leather, chocolate, vanilla, cassis fruit all with a touch of Band-aid. Elegant stylish red with rich, fruity, earthy finish. Well done.Prices:| BC | $20.49 | 750ml |
| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
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18 December 2007
88PTS
Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
California, United StatesIt seems everyone loves cabernet and the Paso Robles-based Hope family have done a terrific job with their delicious stylish Liberty School brand. The '05 is the product of a longer, cooler growing season whose extra added hang-time has resulted in a red wine packed full of peppery, sweet black fruit and soft tannins. It's a real crowd pleaser.Prices:| BC | $22.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.20 | 750ml |
| SK | $22.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Pacific Breeze Chardonnay 2005
Product of CanadaVanilla, butterscotch, honey, light garlic lees, floral, melon aromas. Round, warm and dry on the palate with soft, slightly oily textures. Butterscotch, lees, honey, garlic, mineral and baked apple flavours. A bit over-ripe and slightly warm on the finish but solid concentration and fruit. Well made if a touch old fashioned in style. Good value. This is high quality San Giacomo Vineyard fruit that's has been shipped up from Carneros and made into wine in Canada.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Saintsbury Brown Ranch Carneros Chardonnay 2003
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesBig butterscotch, honey, melon, baked pear, nutty, vanilla nose with a bit of orange. Round, fat, oily, full bodied style and very dry. Nutty, buttery, vanilla, spicy garlic lees, baked pear and mineral flavours. Solid somewhat Meursault-like style but now fully mature. Drink up.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Rodney Strong Chardonnay Reserve 2005
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesCitrus, floral, green apple skin, nectarine, buttered popcorn, spicy lees aromas. Fresh, round, dry, elegant style. Citrus, butter, lees, nectarine, honey and baked green apple flavours. Good finesse and juicy if a bit too much buttered popcorn flavour on the finish. Well done and should have wide appeal.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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16 December 2007
91PTS
Marques de Griñon Dominio de Valdepusa El Rincon Syrah & Garnacha 2003
Castilla-La Mancha, SpainBig smoky, white pepper, roasted pepper, floral, compost, meaty, black cherry jam, oyster shell aromas. Dry, round, elegant, slightly tight palate with some youthful tannin. Cherry kirsch, floral, peppery, smoky pepper, licorice, tobacco leaf, rootsy flavours. Good finesse and intensity although a bit warm on the finish. Needs 2-4 years to shine but very drinkable.Prices:| BC | $36.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blasted Church Revered Series Chardonnay 2005
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAs it was last year this is a very good chardonnay. Bright, citrus, melon, green apple fruit nose with some creamy lees textures. The mid-palate is fresh with leesy, citrus rind and melon fruit. Delicious styling made for seafood.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Blasted Church Chardonnay Musque 2005
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh inviting youthful nose with bits of banana and less. Aromatic style mixes lime rind and peachy melon fruit with afresh finish. Clean, dry and simple and best served with food.Prices:| BC | $18.07 | 750ml |
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86PTS
MandraRossa Chardonnay 2005
Sicily, ItalyMandraRossa is out of Sicily and the historic town of Menfi. This 100 per cent chardonnay sees no oak but is somehow tastes mouth-filling and full-bodied. Fairly intense citrus fruit with candied apricot and flecks of orange. The finish is warm. Best with buttery scallops or prawns. Good value.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Funky Llama Chardonnay 2004
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaGoofy name, decent wine. Fresh and clean with a balanced round simple fruity melon apple flavours with a touch of residual. A fun party white that won't break the bank.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.15 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Gray Monk Chardonnay Unwooded 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSimilar to last year with its green apple core, grapefruit and peachy pit aromas. The entry is fresh and round with greener apple and sweet fruit cocktail flavours with just a hint of lees. A serviceable apéritif-style white for food.Prices:| BC | $16.49 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Seven Stones Speaking Rock Chardonnay 2006
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMedium dark yellow colour with a nutty warm baked apple nose. The attack is warm and alcoholic with butter, lifted apricot and toasted nut flavours. Somewhat over the top at this point. Fully mature and needs drinking.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Noble Ridge Chardonnay 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig bright oaky buttery nose with citrus nutty notes. The entry is warm with more buttery oak sitting over vanilla, mineral, oaky caramel flavours. Like last year the finish is out of balance. Too much oak for the level of fruit.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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15 December 2007
86PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery The Townsend Jack Unoaked Chardonnay 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh nose with green apple and honey notes. The entry is soft and a touch sweet with baked apple honey and citrus notes. A simple, light, candied lemon soft easy-sipping, introductory-style chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Rosé NV
Champagne, FranceA consistent favourite now with its attractive salmon hue and bright fresh nutty, raspberry, mineral aromas. Look for a persistent, fine mousse with a creamy smooth entry and a fresh acidity throughout the creamy, nutty, baked apple, cherry citrus flavours. Elegant and balance this is a terrific bottle of rose.Prices:| BC | $64.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $68.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $54.25 | 750ml |
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14 December 2007
91PTS
Champagne Veuve Clicquot Brut NV
Champagne, FranceThe origin of Veuve Clicquot's distinctive "yellow" label (which looks orange) is linked colour of free-run chicken's egg yolk. Clicquot's non vintage label is a powerful house style with good fruit and plenty of brioche and butter flavours." Its weight and power stems from the addition of some 25 to 40 per cent reserve wines (older vintages) to the blend. "Power and elegance in the same bottle. Anything with salmon will work here. The big toasty N/V brut defines the house style thanks to some 25 to 40 per cent reserve wine in each edition. Straw yellow color. Heady, fruity, toasty aromas. Big yeasty dough flavours on entry with an almost malty/peaty flavour on the mid-palate. A big, round, rich sparkler with lots of finesse. Definitely for those who prefer their bubble with attitude.Prices:| BC | $82.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $93.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $84.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $86.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $89.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $88.29 | 750ml |
| NL | $98.90 | 750ml |
| NB | $91.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $178.99 | 1500ml |
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13 December 2007
88PTS
Saint-Cosme Côtes du Rhône 2006
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceBig peppery, black cherry jam, orange peel, smoky, floral, licorice root, spicy aromas. Dry, round, elegant but light tannins. Peppery, spicy, licorice, garrigue, chocolate, black cherry, orange, five spice flavours. Youthful with some acidity and tannins on the finish. Will improve over the next 1-2 years. Fine intensity and value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine de la Grand'Ribe Côtes du Rhône Cuvée Tradition Vieilles Vignes 2004
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceNice freshly ground black pepper, spicy, meaty, dark plum, licorice root, chocolate, tobacco aromas. Round, dry, slightly tannic but elegant palate. Black cherry, smoky, black peppery, licorice root, smoky flavours with some chocolate tobacco on the finish. A bit rustic and tannic, should improve over the next year or so. Good concentration and value. The wine is made from 45-year old vines that are certified 100 per cent organic.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Famille Perrin Côtes du Rhône Rouge Réserve 2005
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceSpicy, meaty, peppery, chocolate, compost, Band-Aid, black cherry aromas. Dry, moderately rich, slightly tannic palate with peppery, smoky, meaty, earthy, dark chocolate, black cherry, rootsy flavours. A chunky style wine with a bit of residual tannins and acidity showing. Designed to accompany meat or keep a year to age.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gabarda Uno 2006
Cariñena, Aragon, SpainFresh black raspberry kirsch, cherry, meaty, tobacco, licorice, floral nose. Dry, tight but round and ripe. Big black raspberry jam, orange peel, mineral, licorice, spicy, white pepper flavours. Warm, slightly fresh finish but great fruit and intensity to go with pork, duck or turkey. Solid value here.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Château des Aveylans Costières de Nîmes 2006
Costières de Nîmes, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceRoasted peppery, earthy, menthol, black cherry, floral, spicy nose. Soft, round, supple entry with peppery, smoky, roasted peppery, meaty, cherry, plum, tobacco leaf flavours. Warm, full finish but well balanced. Ready to drink; fine value.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine des Soulanes 2004
Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceDark cherry colour. Big smoky, peppery, vanilla, plum jam, gamey, kirsch, coffee bean, chocolate, licorice root aromas. Rich, round, full bodied style with some warmth and youthful tannins. Baked plum, earthy, smoky, coffee, resiny, licorice, tobacco flavours. The finish is warm, chunky and youthful with fine intensity. It will be better yet in twp to three years.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Ortas Tradition Rasteau Côtes du Rhône Villages 2005
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FrancePeppery, lees, smoky, meaty, black cherry, animal, licorice root aromas. Soft, round, elegant but dry palate with earthy, black cherry, spicy, compost, rootsy, peppery flavours. Tight, fresh acidity finish needs food or a year in bottle to soften.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Marques de Griñon Dominio de Valdepusa Caliza 2004
Castilla-La Mancha, SpainFloral, spicy, black cherry, meaty, coffee, orange compote, vanilla, rootsy aromas. Dry, round, rich, elegant palate with some grainy tannin. Fresh plum, black cherry, mocha, licorice, mineral, rose water, tobacco flavours. Nice intensity and balance with good fruit intensity. Very good value.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Domain Roche-Audran Visan Cotes-du Rhône Villages 2004
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceMeaty, smoky, compost, peppery, rootsy, leather aromas. Dry and slightly tight on entry but fresh with mineral, smoky, rootsy, plum flavours flecked with pepper and menthol. Tart, warm finish. It really needs food to balance the dryness in the aftertaste.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gehringer Brothers Riesling Ice Wine Signature Series 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig apricot, honey, lime, waxy, orange aromas with a hint of light nalgene. Ripe, rich, round, slightly fat style but decent acid sugar balance. Lots of ripe apple, orange, mineral, apricot, honey flavours. Elegant, full style you should drink while its young.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Ogier Côtes du Rhône Heritages Rouge 2005
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceSmoky, peppery, spicy, garrigue, light meaty cherry nose. Dry, round, slightly tannic entry with a dry edge. Peppery, cherry, orange peel, chocolate flavours. Juicy but very warm and tart on the finish. Simple Rhone red best with food.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.04 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Torres Sangre de Toro 2005
Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainSlightly reductive (screwcap) nose with leather, smoky, earthy, spicy plum aromas. Soft, round, slightly tannic entry with cranberry, cherry, meaty, earthy, compost, orange peel flavours. Simple, slightly rustic finish but a bit tart, best with food.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Qwam Qwmt Riesling Icewine 2006
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCitrus rind, mineral, egg yolk, cooked peach aromas. Round, rich, fat style with orange peel, green apple skin, lime, cooked peach and light shower curtain flavours. Solid if a bit sweet and soft. What it lacks in elegance it makes up for in richness and length. Drink now.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Jérôme Seguin Côtes du Rhône 2005
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceMeaty, spicy, black cherry, peppery, slightly smoky nose. Dry, tight, slightly tannic palate with earthy, prune, spicy, meaty, compost, black cherry flavours. Solid food style wine, best with lamb or beef. Will improve with a year or so in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine Lirac 2004
Lirac, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceSpicy, peppery, black raspberry jam, meaty nose with a touch of chocolate and licorice and barnyard. Round, dry, somewhat tight palate with light tannins. Peppery, black raspberry, floral, spicy, licorice root flavours with a touch of garrigue. Nice fruit and intensity but the tannins and acidity are just a bit bony. Try with roast lamb.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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12 December 2007
89PTS
Le Macchiole Bolgheri Rosso 2005
Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyThis is all Bolgheri with its floral, spicy smoky chocolate notes on the nose. The styling is elegant with a wonderful balance of fruit and tannins. The palate is a fresh mix of cherry and minerals with savoury gamey, smoky notes and bits of black olive in the finish. Very easy sipping red you can drink now or hold three to five years. The blend is mostly equal parts of merlot/cabernet franc/sangiovese with a dash of syrah. Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Lizard Flat Chardonnay Verdelho 2005
AustraliaA simple straight-up white blend where the verdelho helps lift the chardonnay out of the box. Fairly lively and fresh with floral, citrus, pineapple fruit flavours in a medium weight white with a touch of residual sugar in the finish. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 1000ml |
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87PTS
Fork in the Road Oliver Block 212 White 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhen you come to a fork in the road, take it, says former New York Yankee Yogi Berra. We might say the same for this Mission Hill concept wine that is an ode to a less uptight, more modern style white. The nose is very floral with bits of melon and nutty aromas. The palate is rich with oily textures and more mineral, nutty, grapefruit rind and green apple fruit. Well made solid food wine under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Guado al Tasso Vermentino 2006
Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyThis is 100 per cent vermentino grown at Tenuta Guado al Tasso near Bolgheri on the Tuscan coast. The grapes are always harvested in stages to include lively just underripe grapes and a portion of fully ripen fruit. It's the blend that gives this wine its fresh but intense flavours. There is a pre-maceration cold-soak and ferment resulting in a very fresh, floral, red apple citrus scented wine that sees no oak. A delicious drinking food wine that could drive you away from chardonnay.Prices:| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Chamarré Chardonnay - Sauvignon 2005
FranceWhenever I taste wines designed for UK supermarkets I wonder how it is that London remains the centre of the wine world. This chardonnay sauvignon blanc blend is soft, round, white and warm. It may be New France but it taste old fashioned. Another brand chasing its Yellow Tail.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Contempo Nero d'Avola 2004
Sicily, ItalyThe Contempo series is focused on the traditional Sicilian varieties like this néro d'Avola. Another soft fresh red that spends only three months in barrique to smooth out the edges. The vines sit from 820' to 1,640' above sea level where the latitude surely contributes to the fresh character. Made for food this soft earthy, licorice flavoured red delivers from front to back on the palate.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Monte Antico Toscano 2003
Santa Lucia, Pisa, Tuscany, ItalyMonte Antico is a proprietary label of the Empsons, Neil and Maria. This is a modern version of the classic Tuscan sangiovese. What can you say? Well, it's a fragrant, elegant red wine with clean juicy cranberry, licorice flavoured fruit and a dash of leather. A firm, medium-weight red with grace that is made for food. Very well done.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Toscolo Chianti 2005
Tuscany, ItalyAnother Neil Empson selection from the Pisa region, Toscolo is Renaissance word for 'Tuscan boy'. The fruit grows from 250 to 450 metres and give the wine a richness and plush-ness in the mouth that can surprise. Still it has the Empson Bernabei palate - fragrant, elegant cran-cherry fruit with a dusting of earth and leather. A workhorse Monday to Friday red best with meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Hester Creek Chardonnay Semillon 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaChardonnay and sémillon is an unusual blend for B.C. but its sweet fruit style and weighty textures may work well with Pan Asian dishes. Look for an aromatic nose of pineapple, minerals and spice with similar flavours on the palate. A fairly simple straight-up white wine with a touch of sugar.Prices:| BC | $14.09 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nemorino Toscano Rosso 2005
Tuscany, ItalyThe mix is 50/30/20 sangiovese/merlot/cabernet sauvignon aged partly in wood and partly in tank lending the wine a clean modern Tuscan look. Floral (violet) meaty aromas preview the fragrant cran- cherry flavours and soft tannins. Elegant stylish modern red that would be perfect with lamb osso buco or a pappardelle con fungi. Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
The Little Penguin Chardonnay Riesling 2006
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaI wasn't expecting that much from this wine but I can report it delivers for the price. There is nothing complicated here just clean fresh fruit that in this case mixes honey and tropical fruit with bits of melon and vanilla. Clean fresh simple and very drinkable.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.48 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.20 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Montalto Nero d'Avola Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Sicily, ItalyThis is your basic, updated, spaghetti red from Sicily that mixes cabernet sauvignon with néro d'Avola. Look for a slightly over ripe cherry fruit and chocolate flavoured red spiked with leather and spice. Impressive value and coming under screwcap seals the deal. Think pizza chicken pasta and party. Great value.Prices:| BC | $10.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.15 | 750ml |
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11 December 2007
87PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Viognier 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAnother good effort from Van Westen and similar to the 05 with its bright floral, orange and honey scented nose and flavours. The entry is fresh and clean with fine minerality. The structure is slightly leaner than last year making it a wine you can sip solo before dinner or with appetizers. Clearly this site is working we need only wait now for the vines to get a bit older and produce a little less fruit with more intensity to match the price.Prices:| BC | $27.90 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Humberto Canale Viognier 2007
Alto Valle del Río Negro, Rio Negro, Patagonia, ArgentinaThis 100 per cent viognier in a pleasant off-dry style. Smooth ripe fruit with a slightly sweet finish it is made for 'hot' spicy dishes. Bits of minerality and orange give it a viognier profile. Tasty, clean, well made simple edition of this grape.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Serame Viognier 2006
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceEach year this wine impresses us and the '06 is no different. Look for plenty of the fresh mineral honey notes on the nose spikes with bits of ginger and apricot skin. The palate is relatively weighty for such a straight -up style with more honey mineral ginger notes and a refreshing clean light finish. Terrific value and perfect for roasted birds and or Pan Asian foods.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Moillard Viognier Huges le Juste 2005
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceLook for a full open, floral, spicy aroma with bits of orange and honey in the background. On entry it is a mix of mineral and floral peachy fruit with a smooth oily mid-palate and finish. Just a touch of residual sugar should help it deal effectively with any heat or spice on the menu. Good value in an introductory style European viognier. Now under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Anakena Viognier 2006
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileNice to see this terrific bargain in government stores. This is quintessential cool-climate New World viognier from Chile's Rapel Valley. Love the ginger melon mineral nose, the dry palate with mineral honey pink grapefruit notes and the general vibrancy of this wine. Be sure to serve this with bird and keep the bottle down your end of the table.Prices:| BC | $17.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
McManis Family Vineyards Viognier 2006
California, United StatesThis is a warmer style viognier with more spice and ginger threaded thought the mineral nectarine fruit nose. The plate is on the heavier style with oily textures and tropical flavours mixed with ginger, honey and orange. Big fresh powerful style that could easily handle a roast turkey and all the trimmings.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.20 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Clay Station Viognier 2005
Lodi, Central Valley, California, United StatesWhat a pleasant surprise this, as in, can a warm Lodi site produce a crisp viognier? The answer is yes. This wine is really delicious for the price but even better is the fruit mix of peaches and guava with bits of honey and passion fruit. The finish clean and fresh with orange blossom undertones. Very fine value.Prices:| BC | $19.98 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.55 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.99 | 750ml |
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10 December 2007
93PTS
Ramos Pinto Vintage Port 2003
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalSpicy, licorice, black berry, plum jam, black tea, floral, minty, cedar chocolate aromas with a bit of spirit showing. Rich, round, elegant style but not too sweet or fat. Some youthful tannins evident but balanced with peppery, black tea, warm orange, licorice, cedar, black plum and black berry flavours. Long, good finesse and complexity but quite young with a coffee finish. Needs 7-10 years more bottle age to fully develop.Prices:| BC | $87.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Château Haut-Beauséjour 2004
St. Estèphe, Haut-Médoc, Médoc, Bordeaux, FrancePeppery, spicy, earthy, tobacco, smoky coffee, black berry and barnyard aromas. Round, full, elegant but slightly tannic with a bit of acidity showing. Cassis, peppery, vanilla, coffee, earthy, tobacco, black olive with a touch of leather. Solid, balanced early maturing style, best over the next 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Chateau de Pez 2001
St. Estèphe, Haut-Médoc, Médoc, Bordeaux, FranceSpicy, peppery, coffee, licorice root, floral, cassis, Band-Aid, tobacco, waxy aromas. Round, dry, supple, slightly warm palate with light tannins. Peppery, coffee, cassis, plum, cedar, earthy, tobacco, licorice flavours with a bit of black olive and dill herb on the finish. Balanced, nearly ready but needs 2-3 years to integrate a slight green side.Prices:| BC | $52.09 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Cave de Tain Cornas Arènes Sauvages 2003
Hermitage, Northern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceVery spicy, meaty, chocolate, black cherry, plum, cedar tobacco aromas with a smoky, licorice root note. Soft, round, dry and supple, very forward style with good acidity. Peppery, meaty, smoky, tobacco, chocolate, vanilla, black cherry, earthy, resin flavours. Good finesse, nearly ready, but will improve over the next 1-2 years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $56.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cave de Tain Hermitage 2003
Hermitage, Northern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FrancePeppery, smoky, meaty, floral, cedar, chocolate, saddle leather, spicy cardamom nose with black cherry and plum fruit. Round, dry, lightly tannic palate with fresh acidity and warm. Cherry, plum, mineral, licorice, coffee, smoky resin, tobacco leaf flavours and a light herbal, garrigue finish. Good finesse and fruit but still a bit youthful and nervy. Serve with meats or keep for 2-3 years for further seasoning.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Golden Mile Black Arts Fifth Element White 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, perfume, honey, citrus aromas. Dry, crisp, delicate style with honey, creamsicle, ginger, rose flower, mineral flavours and a tart granny smith finish. A fine dry but fairly acidic style on the finish. Not for beginners. The blend is 61 per cent viognier (Black Sage Bench) 25 per cent orange muscat (Black Sage Bench) and 14 per cent chardonnay (Castle Vineyard).Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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09 December 2007
90PTS
Delta Vineyard Hatter's Hill Pinot Noir 2005
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandSpicy, coriander, carrot top, smoky, black tea nose with tobacco leaf, cherry and barnyard aromas. Round, elegant, smooth palate with good acidity. Black cherry, spicy, celery root, tea, tobacco, orange peel, vanilla, smoky herb flavours. Good finesse and elegance if a tad soft. Very good value for current consumption.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.95 | 750ml |
| SK | $24.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.95 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Syrah 2005
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky, coffee, roasted bell pepper, barnyard, vanilla, port-y, licorice, savoury, all spice nose with some compost notes. Very soft, round, supple, dry palate but warm. Spicy, smoky, vanilla, milk chocolate, mace, sage, coffee, black cherry, flavours. A forward ready -to-drink style that should improve with a few years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Waipara Hills Pinot Noir 2006
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandCelery salt, carrot top, black cherry, spicy, rootsy, curry spice nose. Round, dry, elegant, fresh palate but a bit tight. Rootsy, orange peel, stemmy, carrot top, spicy, sour cherry, smoky flavours. Very tart, smooth finish. Best with food but has some intensity.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Mission Hill S.L.C. Syrah 2004
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, white pepper, floral, licorice, meaty, black cherry jam, tobacco leaf aromas. Round, dry, slightly tannic palate, fresh but has some elegance. Sweet vanilla, licorice, sage, milk chocolate, black cherry, plum, tobacco, smoked meat, minty flavours. Good fruit intensity in a more Euro style with an extra dose of oak. We look for forward to an all French oak edition at some point.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $34.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mission Hill Reserve Shiraz 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhite pepper, licorice root, roasted bell pepper marks the nose of this smoky, celery salt, black cherry, tobacco leaf scented shiraz. Dry, round, elegant palate with light, tight tannins, bit light on extract. Cherry, cocoa, meaty, all spice, candied coconut, milk chocolate, tobacco leaf flavours. Solid if a bit light and oaky but mostly it is true to its Oz-like styling.Prices:| BC | $21.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Graham's Malvedos Vintage Port 2001
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalHeavy licorice root, spirity, spicy nose with peppery, eucalyptus, savoury, floral, black cherry jam and resin notes. Ripe, round, rich but elegant with good acidity and sweetness. Light tannins still showing with black cherry, plum, licorice root, menthol, black tea, peppery, smoky flavours. Good finesse, somewhat more forward style. Can drink now but will improve over the next 3-7 years.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 375ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 375ml |
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92PTS
Planeta Moscato di Noto 2005
Sicily, ItalyMade from grapes picked and then dried for 40 days. Light gold colour. Huge spicy, ginger, floral, nectarine skin, dried pear, apricot and orange aromas. Ripe, round, fresh and elegant. Sweet but has excellent acidity balance. Big ginger, orange peel, mineral, apricot, green apple skin, spicy flavours. Excellent length and acidity. Worth trying.Prices:| BC | $44.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $38.25 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Planeta Burdese 2004
Sicily, ItalyBig dried leafy, tobacco, cassis, peppery, menthol, barnyard, vanilla and coffee nose with a bit of saddle leather. Dry, round, slightly tannic and tight palate with cedary, tobacco leaf, black olive, peppery, coffee and cassis flavours. Somewhat like a Coonawarra cab. Solid but on the herbal side.Prices:| BC | $48.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Champagne Gosset Grande Reserve Brut NV
Champagne, FranceFine, tiny mousse. Citrus, toasty, pear, floral, baked apple, cherry aromas. Round, crisp, elegant, fresh palate with good acidity balance. Good citrus, baked granny smith, pear, honey, toasty brioche flavours. Long, fresh finish with juicy textures. A bit tighter style.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $85.80 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Champagne Pommery Brut Royal NV
Champagne, FranceLots of mousse if a bit foamy with continuous bead. Nutty, toasty, baked apple, honey, brioche, baked cherry aromas. Round, elegant, slightly sweet brut style with very toasty, nutty, earthy, cherry cream, baked apple, honey flavours. More forward style that will appeal to most consumers. Very friendly fruity style with good acidity.Prices:| BC | $81.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Babich East Coast Pinot Noir 2004
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandFloral, spicy, barnyard, vanilla bean, cherry, candied, compost nose. Round, soft, supple palate but fresh. Cooked cherry, orange, vanilla, cola, rootsy flavours. Simple, easy, slightly tart style.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Finca Los Primos Syrah 2006
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaPeppery, earthy, animal, rubbery, tea, black cherry, smoky nose. Soft, round, smooth, slightly sweet entry with good acidity. Spicy, black cherry, cedar, meaty, resin, peppery flavours. Fresh fruit finish but a bit too tart. Solid pizza wine.Prices:| BC | $9.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Seven Stones Speaking Rock Pinot Noir 2006
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRhubarb, sour cherry, spicy, mineral, licorice aromas. Soft, round, dry, elegant palate with candied sour cherry, rhubarb, carrot top, tea leaf flavours. Brisk, warm finish but has some finesse.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Syrah Phantom Creek Vineyard 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPrune, black cherry, resin, dill, brine, coffee, vanilla, sage, all spice, and peppery, vanilla nose. Soft, supple, round, easy palate with coffee, smoky, resin, black plum, licorice, dried herb, milk chocolate flavour. Easy, forward, somewhat oaky, soupy style.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Pinot Noir 2005
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceVery dark cherry colour. Meaty, cherry, smoky, pruny, cedar aromas, not very pinot-like. Warm, fat, rich, slightly tannic palate with smoky, cedar, licorice, plum, tea flavours. Tart, warm finish. Sound but not really pinot.Prices:| BC | $13.98 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Pascual Toso Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon Pedregal Vineyard 2004
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSecond bottle retaste. Big spicy, peppery, vanilla, sage, tobacco, cassis, black olive, roasted mushroom, savoury, plum jam nose with a hint of sweaty saddle leather. Rich, ripe, round and warm with young grainy tannins and good acidity. Very spicy, vanilla, black cherry, savoury, tobacco, leather, licorice, dill, cassis, sweet chocolate, coffee flavours. Good intensity of fruit and balance, should improve over the next 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $59.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Champagne Taittinger Prélude Grands Crus NV
Champagne, FranceFine, continuous mousse. Very nutty, honey, lemon, cherry, floral, waxy, oyster shell aromas. Fresh, lively, round, crisp, drier brut style with good concentration. Again, very nutty, green apple skin, baked pear, honey, oyster shell, salty, toasty cherry flavours. Crisp, slightly sweet finish with citrus rind. Nice finesse, slightly unusual.Prices:| BC | $95.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne NV
Champagne, FranceSimilar to the last bottling with fine continuous mousse. Fresh lemon, toasty, baked apple, citrus aromas with a floral, spiced cherry note. Crisp, round, elegant and full with good creamy mousse. Cherry, baked granny smith, toasty, citrus, floral, biscuit flavours. Good acidity and balance in a slightly richer style. Classy.The Brut Premier blend is 56% pinot noir, 34% chardonnay and 10% pinot meunier and that includes 10% of reserve wine from three former harvests that is aged in oak casks for 2-6 years. Prices:| AB | $64.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $68.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $66.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $68.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $319.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $66.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $70.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $60.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Champagne Moët & Chandon Rosé Imperial NV
Champagne, FranceDelicate pale cherry colour with continuous but slightly large mousse. Floral, cherry, slate, toasty, green apple and citrus aromas. Rich, ripe, round palate with good acidity and moderate dosage. Red currant, leafy strawberry, nutty, mineral, apple skin flavours. It has good finesse in a rounder, slightly sweeter brut style.Prices:| BC | $93.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $99.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $104.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $99.65 | 750ml |
| QC | $95.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Champagne Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV
Champagne, FranceLots of mousse. Baked apple, lemon, honey, light cherry and toasty aromas. Round, elegant, fresh but somewhat sweeter brut style and a bit fat. Creamy apple, honey, nutty, citrus, toasty butter flavours. Solid, appealing consumer style with good flavours.Prices:| BC | $77.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $71.10 | 750ml |
| SK | $85.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $87.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $80.55 | 750ml |
| QC | $77.15 | 750ml |
| NS | $77.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $79.99 | 750ml |
| NL | $78.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Champagne Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial NV
Champagne, FranceGood continuous mousse. Lemon, nutty, baked apple, croissant, floral, cherry and pear skin aromas. Fresh, round, lively style with lots of strawberry, baked pear, candied citrus, biscuit-y, nutty, honey flavours. Nice style and well balanced but quite sweet. Definitely a post-dinner style for a fruit dessert or with foie gras or try with Indian food.Prices:| BC | $75.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $76.75 | 750ml |
| ON | $76.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $75.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Champagne Laurent Perrier Brut NV
Champagne, FranceFine tiny mousse. Lemon, green apple, toasty pear, strawberry, light toasty nose. Light, elegant, crisp palate with moderate mousse. Cherry, toasty, baked apple, citrus, quince and honey flavours. A bit short on the finish but nice fruit flavours that will appeal to all.Prices:| BC | $60.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $58.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $51.25 | 750ml |
| BC | $139.99 | 1500ml |
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90PTS
Champagne Taittinger Brut Reserve NV
Champagne, FranceFine continuous mousse. Citrus, honey, nutty, baked pear, apple aromas with a touch of quince. Crisp, round, elegant, fresh palate with baked red apple, toasty, spicy, citrus, peach skin flavours. Good finesse and acidity with just a hint of sweetness showing up on the juicy citrus finish. Very consistent and classy.Prices:| BC | $74.99 | 750ml |
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08 December 2007
86PTS
Finca Los Primos Malbec 2006
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaAnother good value from Los Primos. This is simple straight up malbec with primary black cherry, savoury aromas and a warm soft slippery palate. More smoky black fruit with bits of liquorice and tobacco. Cheap party red that delivers.Prices:| BC | $9.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $10.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
337 Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Lodi, Central Valley, California, United StatesThe 337 cabernet is a French clone planted to a rocky site in Lodi, California. The nose is boisterous with lifted black cherry aromas. On the palate it's smooth and the tannins mostly supple. The fruit remains exuberant flecked with chocolate and coffee. Fun but simple.Prices:| BC | $19.98 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Emiliana Novas Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileViñedos Orgánicos Emiliana is all about environmentally responsible, organic and biodynamic wines. The driving force is former Carmen winemaker Alvaro Espinoza. There's no mistaking the leafy spicy carmenère but the wine is quite alive and fresh after spending nine months in both French and American oak. Look for a juicy spicy red that is not only organic but attractive. Serve with grilled meats. Good value.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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07 December 2007
89PTS
Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Montmains 1er Cru 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceSeashell, slate, nutty lees, light garlic. Round, dry, fresh and elegant with good acidity and a touch of oiliness. Lemon, oyster shell, light garlic, flinty, slightly toasty apple skin flavours. Very good balance and finish, will improve under the screw cap. Good value.Prices:| BC | $35.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.85 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Vaucoupin 1er Cru 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceSlate, citrus, garlic lees, lime, green apple skin, sea shore, butter flavours. Dry, round, elegant, crisp with buttery, garlic lees, citrus, green apple, floral, light honey flavours. Very good finish and aftertaste wit butterscotch, lemon and mineral. Slightly more pure and a bit longer than Montmains. Well done.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.95 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru 2005
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceLight butterscotch, garlic lees, floral, butter, oyster shell, honey aromas with a touch of spice and quince. Ripe, round, rich, elegant, fresh palate with lemon, flint, butter, garlic, nutty lees, quince, green apple flavours with a touch of iodine and smoke on the finish. Great acidity and finesse, should improve for the next 3-7 years under screw cap. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $71.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $59.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Château du Cray Montagny 2004
Montagny, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, FranceGreen apple, grassy, honey, asparagus, lees aromas. Dry, round, tight palate but elegant with crisp acidity. Butter, herbal, mineral, citrus, grassy flavours with a slight vegetal, honey, garlic lees finish. The tighter style and structure calls for food.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Chartron et Trébuchet Meursault 2003
Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceLight garlic lees nose with mineral lemon, buttery, nutty, flinty, earthy notes. Soft, round, slightly oily palate with earthy, buttery, garlic lees, cedar sawdust, green apple skin and citrus rind flavours. Warm and tart on the finish and a bit flat in flavour profile. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Chartron et Trébuchet Pouilly-Fuissé Cuvée de la Chapelle 2004
Pouilly-Fuissé, Mâconnais, Burgundy, FranceFloral, lemon oil, buttery, wet rock, peach pit aromas. Dry, tight, elegant slightly oily palate with good acidity. Buttery, lime rind, wet stone, granny smith, flinty pear skin flavours. Good balance in a drier, more crisp style. Best with seafood.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Chartron et Trébuchet Bourgogne Blanc 2005
Burgundy, FranceCitrus, butter, earthy, apple skin aromas. Round, soft, elegant with citrus, peach pit, green apple, butter flavours. Warm, slightly tight mineral finish. A good candidate for screwcap to better lift the fruit.Prices:| BC | $19.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bogle Vineyards Chenin Blanc 2006
California, United StatesPink grapefruit rind, bubble gum, green apple, honey, floral nose. Fresh, round, crisp palate with a touch of sweetness. Grapefruit, mineral, honey, buttery green apple skin flavours. Lively, elegant, food style wine with some finesse and flavour. Good value, very solid; would be fun with turkey.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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06 December 2007
88PTS
Blasted Church Revered Series Merlot 2005
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Revered Series 'reserve' showed well at the Canadian Wine Awards thanks to its rich expression of fruit. Look for plenty of toasted oak and spiced flavours of mocha, coffee and ripe black fruits. Fine length here and still some tannin to dissipate suggests it will improve in time. Best with a rib-eye steak at the moment.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Blasted Church Merlot 2005
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMuch like the previous year the regular merlot has a nice mix of cranberry and black raspberry fruit with hints of espresso. More coffee cedar, minty black cherry and smoky vanilla fruit. A touch warm but otherwise solid. Bottle under screwcap. Not cheap.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Dry Rock Vineyards Merlot 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTypical Gehringer clean and fresh. It never hits any high notes but it's well made and serviceable at the table. Look for a slightly sweet vanilla nose with earthy, peppery black cherry fruit. It's soft and round on entry with more cedar cherry, spicy flavours in the finish. A simple barbecue red.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Hester Creek Merlot 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen earthy, green bean, nose with herbal hints. The entry is soft with peppery earthy dry black fruit flecked with cedar and spice. Simple merlot that is a touch unclean and that needs drinking. Prices:| BC | $17.09 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Red Rooster Reserve Merlot 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen lifted nose offering up cedar plum and a touch of spicy balsamic notes. The entry is dry and round a mix of ripe peppery black cherry and plum flavours. Fairly harmonious with a warm soft finish. Another year in bottle should round it out. The price is a bit shocking for the quality.Prices:| BC | $34.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Calona Vineyards Merlot Artist Series 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Artist Series reds have always been extremely reliable for the price but the '05 merlot really over delivers. The nose is bright showing some lifted fruit notes and just a whiff of spicy and vanilla. The entry is soft the textures supple and fruity with a soft finish. Well done and perfect for medium weight and light, grilled meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.29 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Sandhill Merlot Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSomewhat dry and tight on the nose showing spicy resiny earthy notes but not much else. On the palate there is some smoky oak, and more resiny, earthy tobacco fruit with just a hint of cherry fruit. Fairly skinny aftertaste for the price. Disappointing given the quality of the sister brand Artists Series merlot in '05.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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83PTS
The Little Penguin Merlot 2006
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaSweet candied nose spicy, cedar leafy notes. The entry is supple with sweet plummy cassis flavours. More beverage than wine. Not for people who are serious about drinking inexpensive wine. Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.59 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.95 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.12 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.99 | 750ml |
| NF | $12.98 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Fat Bastard Merlot 2006
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe FB merlot opens with an attractive spicy oaky nose lying over some ripe round sweet black fruit with bits of anise/liquorice. There is a touch of garrigue or dried herbs in the finish. Think roasted chicken.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.85 | 750ml |
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05 December 2007
84PTS
Therapy Vineyards Superego 2005
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSuper Ego is Therapy's top of the line red but it need some work. It's aged in French and American oak for 18 months and the merlot dominated blend contains bits of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Look for a sweet vanilla a nose with hint o f volatility. On the palate, dark fruits coffee and resin predominate with more volatility. Big and soft but a little over the top and herbaceous too. Needs more time in the bottle to settle down.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Ten Mile Proprietary Red The Broken Road 2005
California, United StatesTen Mile "The Broken Road" is based on classic old California field blends using dry-farmed fruit in this case petite sirah, zinfandel, barbera, malbec and carignane from Lodi, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, and Napa Valley. The nose is a mix of resiny smoky licorice with spicy bits of cassis. The palate is rich and warm cherry, mineral, herbal notes. Perfect for big hearty winter stews or roast.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sandalford Protégé Cabernet Merlot 2005
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaProtégé is an 83/17 of cabernet sauvignon/merlot from the Margaret River region age din two year old French oak. The nose has a savoury coffee mint thread that permeates its black fruit and liquorice flavours. It's reasonably soft and ready to drink but will age for 3 to 5 years in bottle with no trouble. Best with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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04 December 2007
88PTS
Valdivieso Syrah Reserva 2005
Region del Valle Central, ChileTar, smoky, peppery, eucalyptus, sausage, rubbery, barnyard, tobacco aromas. Dry, round, supple palate with vanilla, spicy, peppery, tar, cherry, coffee, smoky sausage, cola, rubber flavours. Good finesse and finish if a bit lighter in style.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Marques de Casa Concha Syrah 2005
Puente Alto, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileWhite pepper, garrigue, vanilla, smoky licorice, eucalyptus, plum, black cherry, rubber, sausage aromas. Round, supple, dry palate with sweet vanilla, mocha, plum, black cherry, licorice, bay leaf, mint, peppery, meaty flavours with a milk chocolate, herbal finish. Good intensity and balance if a bit oaky at this point. Will improve but very drinkable.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Montes Alpha Syrah 2005
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig spicy, peppery, smoky, sausage, mocha, bay leaf, vanilla, saddle leather, black cherry aromas with some menthol. Rich, round, dry, slightly tannic palate. Peppery, menthol, spicy, garrigue, vanilla, coffee, sausage, and black cherry flavours with some smoky leather on the finish. It is still young and will need 2-3 years to dissipate the tannins and oak.Prices:| BC | $27.40 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ona Anakena Syrah 2004
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, bay, minty, meaty, vanilla, smoky, black cherry, licorice, coffee nose. Round, dry, slightly tight palate with some light tannins. Peppery, smoky, bay, resin, black cherry, dried herb, meaty, leather and tobacco flavours. A bit more meaty and tannic in style needs lamb or try in a year or two.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Benziger Sauvignon Blanc Shone Farm 2005
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSmoky, canned jalapeno, grapefruit juice, gooseberry, bell pepper, butter aromas. Dry, crisp, round, elegant palate with good flavour intensity. Grapefruit rind, gooseberry, butter, smoky jalapeno, mineral, juicy passion fruit flavours. A slightly austere sauvignon with great intensity reminiscent of a top Sancerre. This wine was made with grapes grown by sustainable farming methods and is in-transition to certified-organic.Prices:| US | $22.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceFloral, melon, gooseberry, kiwi aromas with some burnt butter and bruised apple. Tart, dry, somewhat austere but has some body. Mineral, grapefruit rind, bitter apple skin, herbal, grassy flavours. Simple, herbal style with some zest. Now mature, drink up with food.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.95 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Wild Horse Canyon Sauvignon Blanc 2006
CanadaGrapefruit rind, bell pepper, grassy, light asparagus nose. Round, slightly sweet, soft palate with bitter grapefruit rind, butter, grassy, green apple skin. Simple wine that needs food. The fruit is a blend of vineyards from the West Coast's British Columbia, Washington and California.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Wild Horse Canyon Chardonnay 2006
CanadaFloral, buttery, green apple, baked pear nose. Sweet, round, fresh style with citrus rind, melon, buttery, apple skin flavours. Simple, fresh consumer sipper.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Groth Chardonnay 2005
Napa Valley, California, United StatesButter, vanilla, baked apple, grassy, pear, lime oil aromas. Round, dry, elegant, slightly oily palate with mineral, earthy, citrus rind, green apple, buttery, lees flavours. Tight, slightly bitter grapefruit rind finish. Very solid, needs a year to round out.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $39.56 | 750ml |
| MB | $39.46 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Groth Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Napa Valley, California, United StatesPassion fruit, gooseberry, light grapefruit, grassy, pear skin nose. Dry, crisp, somewhat austere style with passion fruit, grapefruit rind, mineral, herbal, light canned asparagus flavours. Good finesse and intensity but finish is a tad bitter and herbaceous.Prices:| BC | $34.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $28.34 | 750ml |
| MB | $28.34 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tinhorn Creek Chardonnay 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaButter, citrus, floral, lees, vanilla, melon skin aromas. Round, moderately dry, fresh palate with citrus rind, butter, lees, green apple skin, ginger flavours. Somewhat oily, bitter finish but fresh.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Emiliana Adobe Syrah Reserva Orgánico 2005
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileVery spicy, peppery, smoky, chocolate, sausage, black cherry jam, vanilla aromas with some barnyard notes. Round, dry, elegant palate with barnyard, resin, peppery, smoky, bay, chocolate, vanilla, bay leaf flavours. Good finesse if a bit tight now. Good solid value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Fat Bastard Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceLemon oil, gooseberry, melon rind, bell pepper aromas. Tart, round, slightly oily entry with bitter grapefruit rind, gooseberry, herbal, grassy, butter flavours. Solid food wine.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Therapy Vineyards Freudian Sip 2006
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, sausage, baked pear and lime rind aromas. Round, fresh, elegant but somewhat sweet and soft. Mineral, spicy, peach pit, sausage, ginger, citrus rind flavours. Simple, fresh style for spicy food or the summer deck.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Henri Bourgeois Sauvignon Petit Bourgeois 2005
Loire, FranceCanned asparagus, butter, gooseberry, mineral, menthol, grapefruit nose. Dry, fresh, round, juicy entry with canned asparagus, jalapeno, grapefruit, gooseberry, mineral herbal flavours. Well balanced.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Les Cazalets Syrah 2005
Languedoc, Sud de France, FrancePeppery, sausage, chocolate, licorice, barnyard, black cherry nose. Dry, round, elegant, slightly tight palate with earthy, cherry, smoky, chocolate, licorice root, sausage and cardamom flavours. Good solid food style. Les Trois Terroirs is a leading co-operatives in the Languedoc employing a price/quality reward system that encourages the co-ops members - all independent growers - to adopt modern vineyard practices. It seems to be working.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Obikwa Chardonnay 2006
Western Cape, South AfricaSimple melon, peach, butter nose with a grassy streak. Dry, tart, slightly lean entry with mineral, green apple, grassy, peach pit and butter flavours and a tart finish. Affordable but could use better balance.Prices:| BC | $9.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.25 | 750ml |
| SK | $10.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $8.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $9.99 | 750ml |
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03 December 2007
86PTS
Red Rooster Riesling 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeach, clover, red apple, floral nose with a slight candied, leesy note. Fresh, round, elegant entry but sweeter profile. Orange rind, red apple, honey flavours. Very ripe, warm style with some fruit and acidity on the finish. Solid summer sipper.Prices:| BC | $14.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Frescobaldi Danzante Pinot Grigio delle Venezie 2005
Veneto, ItalyBaked pear, nutty, lees, citrus oil, toasty nose. Round, dry, soft palate with nutty, buttery, toasty, baked pear flavours. Good complexity but now mature. Solid food style.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Kerner Icewine 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, orange, butter, ginger, floral, apple nose. Fat, round, somewhat sweet style that could use more acidity. Buttery, honey, poultry spice flavours. A bit overripe and lacking acidity, drink while young.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Cline Viognier 2006
California, United StatesOrange spice, creamsicle, honey, spicy, floral, ginger aromas. Round, rich, somewhat sweet entry with buttery, honey, ginger, creamsicle, citrus rind and mineral flavours. Solid but a bit too soft and fat, could use a bit more acidity to balance the ripeness.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Sandalford Protégé Premium Classic White 2006
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaRoasted jalapeno, artichoke, grassy, citrus rind, lemon oil aromas. Crisp, round, slightly sweet entry with grapefruit rind, canned jalapeno, asparagus, Granny Smith flavours. Very tart, herbaceous finish. Needs more fruit and a little less vegetable garden.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Rigamarole White 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, honey, orange, soapy peach skin nose. Crisp, elegant, light style with some residual sugar. Green apple skin, grapefruit rind, peach pit flavours with a bitter, mineral edge. Simple, fresh style for the patio.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Bouchard Aîné & Fils Hautes Côtes de Nuits Blancs 2005
Burgundy, FranceCorked, try anotherPrices:| AB | $11.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Golden Mile Old Vines Chenin Blanc Luckhurst Family Vineyards 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight honey, citrus, almond, floral, earthy, grassy nose with some light bruised apple. Rich, warm, dry, very crisp palate with grapefruit rind, chalky, grassy, bitter apple skin, and tart gooseberry flavours. Has richness but the finish is a bit too bitter and edgy.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Calona Vineyards Sovereign Opal Artist Series Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, floral, soapy muscat, grassy, bubble gum aromas. Soft, round, somewhat sweet style with pear, mineral, bitter citrus rind, herbal flavours. Simple patio sipper for the summer.Prices:| BC | $12.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.49 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.49 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Peller Estates Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGreen olive, tobacco leaf, weedy, smoky bell pepper aromas. Round, dry, slightly tight palate with light cedary tannins. Peppery, smoky, resiny, black olive, briny, minty, tobacco, bell pepper, sappy cassis flavours. A cool, green style that could have used some more hang time.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.29 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Garry Oaks Pinot Gris Estate 2006
Burgoyne Valley, Salt Spring Island, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaLeesy, baked apple, grassy, citrus rind aromas with a floral note. Round, fresh, slightly sweet palate with wintergreen, granny smith, buttery lees, pear skin and grapefruit rind flavours. Delicate, summer style sipper.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Ridge Quartage 2004
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaSpicy, blueberry, blackberry, licorice, sausage, meat, peppery, tobacco, earthy, floral nose. Round, dry, supple palate with very light tannins. Tobacco, cassis, blueberry, peppery, black olive, minty flavours. Fresh, fruity style with a bit of an herbal side on the finish. Solid food wine with some fruit.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Nebbia 2005
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBruised apple, nutty, cooked citrus, spicy nose but very old, somewhat oxidized type aromas. Round, dry, slightly oily palate but very mature, showing old apple and citrus flavours. Past its prime.Prices:| BC | $17.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Jackson-Triggs Viognier Proprietors' Reserve 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHoney, lees, ginger, floral, orange flower, lemon oil aromas. Round, rich, somewhat sweet entry but balanced. Spicy, ginger, buttery, creamsicle, mineral flavours. A touch of bitterness on the finish but very solid varietal expression. To drink now.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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02 December 2007
86PTS
Kendall-Jackson Meritage Vintner's Reserve 2004
California, United StatesKJ Meritage mixes 65/34/1 cabernet sauvignon/merlot and cabernet franc from fruit sources up and down the coast. It is still a bit unknit, showing dry cedar fruit characteristics and not a great deal of charm. It is tight on the mid-palate with hint of garlic lees character in the flavour. Needs some time to settle down. Simple style.Prices:| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Kendall-Jackson Stature Red 2004
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe latest Stature (2004) gets 80 percent of its fruit off Stagecoach Vineyard in Napa, with 18 per cent from Mt Veeder and only 2 per cent from Jackson Park in Sonoma's Bennett Valley. It is more opulent than the '03 with a million dollar nose and youthful, spicy, black fruit and powerful fine grained cabernet tannins. The mix is 90/5/2/2/1 cabernet sauvignon/petit verdot/malbec/merlot/cabernet franc aged 20 months in 95 per cent French oak. Just a baby and it is early days, but perhaps this the first Stature with structure and style to warrant serious attention by global cabernet collectors. It would easily give the California cult wines a run for their money at a much lower base cost. No release date yet.Prices:| BC | $169.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $170.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $107.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $109.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Kendall-Jackson Stature Red 2003
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe 2003 Stature is wound up tight as this stage with showing a drier profile with less glossy fruit that is already evident in the 2004. The fruit is a mix from Stagecoach, Veeder and Knights Valley and the break down is 80/10/5/5/ cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc /merlot/petit verdot. Winemaster Randy Ullom does a cold pre-soak and puts the wine in 81per cent new French oak for 20 months. Look for a youthful red with intense peppery, liquorice and blackberry fruit, now typical fine-grained tannins with bits of cedar, chocolate, orange rind and liquorice in the aftertaste.Prices:| BC | $169.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $170.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $107.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $109.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Highland Estate Napa Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe Highland 'Napa' comes in a giant-sized wrapper with plump, floral, spicy fruit yet still lined with traces of mineral, dusty earth and savoury bits. Slightly richer and rounder than the Sonoma labels although the tannins are probably a bit more plentiful and full strength. On the palate it's beefy displaying rich pepper youthful fruit with smoky, black fruits and spice. A blockbuster in '05. All the fruit in '05 comes off the grey pumice soils of Veeder Peak at 1250'-1850' above sea level and it's 100 per cent estate grown 'mountain' cabernet. Huge potential.Prices:| US | $60.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Highland Estate Hawkeye Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesHawkeye Mountain is the spectacular signature KJ property on Alexander Mountain and home to owners Jesse Jackson and Barbara Banke. The 2005 is easily the best yet bathed in spicy black cherry, and tobacco scented fruit flecked with green olive, liquorice and cassis. Clone 4 and 7 cabernets, grown on steep hillsides and terraces provide a firm structure for this red wine to live a long life. An impressive savoury, made from small clusters of small berries sitting well above the valley floor at 900-2200 feet elevation. Buy and cellar for 5 to 7 years and beyond.Prices:| BC | $83.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $65.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $60.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Highland Estate Trace Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesTrace Ridge comes off the Kellogg Vineyard blonde soils (new and old blocks) some 400 - 1000 feet above sea level in Knights Valley. Still unknit the '05 is tight and somewhat disjointed at the moment showing bits of spice and floral fruit and bold espresso notes but not much more. The structure is as you would expect firm and there is a fair load of tannin and more smoky angular coffee, vanilla and blackberry fruit in the aftertaste. A sleeper that will require revisiting in two to three years. Only 550 cases made. The name Trace stems from the vineyards position overlooking the original "Trace," or settler's path that linked Sonoma County to Lake County.Prices:| US | $78.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Highland Estate Taylor Peak Merlot 2005
Bennett Valley, Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesWhen the pinot geeks trashed merlot in the movie 'Sideways' it wasn't the Taylor Peaks of the world they had in mind. This 100 per cent Bennett Valley red is as good as Sonoma 'Mountain' merlot gets. The powerful, mouth-filling red spends 13 months in 46 per cent new French oak. The result is a sophisticated mix of cool blueberry fruit flavours flecked with liquorice, tobacco and exotic bits or orange peel. Impressive 'Right Bank' Bordeaux styling with plenty of fine-grained tannins to take it the distance. Cellar through 2015.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $63.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $49.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Highland Estates Alisos Hills Syrah 2005
Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesAlisos is cool-climate syrah that is 100 per cent grown at Los Alamos in Santa Barbara County. Look for an intense red wine with smoky, floral, peppery red fruit aromas and flavours. On the palate, the wine is meaty with black raspberry, cherry cola flavours. The attack is round, the textures dense almost beefy with super ripe fruit. Alisos is becoming consistently good year in and year out.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $53.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $43.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $43.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Highland Estates Seco Highlands Pinot Noir 2006
Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe latest Seco Highlands pinot is another jump up in finesse and elegance. There is also more black cherry fruit this year and little less of the spicy, carrot top, and rhubarb flavours. Fine mid-palate weight and with smoky black fruit in the finish. Refined textures. It's age 10 months in 100 per cent French oak and 50 per cent of that is new. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $55.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $43.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $43.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Highland Estates Seco Highlands Chardonnay 2006
Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesA unique chardonnay made with a blend of the muscat/gewürztraminer, spice-like, Rued clone and the very aromatic floral Dijon 76 clone along with bits of 4, Z and 809. It spends about 8 months in 55 per cent new French oak. As you might expect the wine is highly aromatic, a trait that combines well with its creamy viscosity and slightly oily texture. The flavours tend toward baked apple and spicy butterscotch with a squeeze of ginger and honey. An exotic version of California chardonnay.Prices:| US | $30.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Highland Estates Camelot Highlands Chardonnay 2006
Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesBlock M is 100 per cent clone four chardonnay and it delivers on all levels. Sophisticated, rich, elegant and packed full of floral, pineapple, citrus, buttery fruit with flecks of orange and spice. Fresh toasted bread mixes with a creamy mid-palate and a long smouldering finish. Excellent finesse and length in a 100 percent barrel fermented (French) oak that is three quarters new. KJ is buying and ageing its oak before barrel assembly and it shows in the quality of the wine.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $37.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve 2005
Napa - Sonoma, California, United StatesThis has become a mostly Sonoma blend (87) with a dash of fruit from Mendocino (8) and Napa (5). Big boisterous and flavourful this is full on California cabernet. Somewhat reminiscent of the 1997 with its spicy, earthy blackberry fruit and beautiful mid-palate textures. Dense round and showing well now this should only get better with time. Chosen form only 1.5 percent of all the KJ cab lots.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $52.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Meritage Grand Reserve 2005
Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe '05 GR Meritage opens with a big vanilla and toasted oak nose that draws you into the glass. The entry is similarly attractive with round edges but once on the palate the attack is a bit tougher with firm tannins and dry leathery notes. The blend is 57/29/14 cabernet sauvignon /merlot /cabernet franc and it's all aged in 50/50 new and old French oak for 14 months. Not as harmonious as it could be at this stage but it will improve in the bottle for over the next three to five years.Prices:| ON | $32.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Kendall-Jackson Merlot Grand Reserve 2005
Sonoma - Napa, California, United StatesMore and more French oak (now 85 per cent but only 23 per cent new) has really helped to shape the new style of this wine that while ripe and full flavoured is eminently more suited to food. Look for a bright core of plummy black cherry fruit and mocha notes with warm cedar, violet and tobacco undercurrents. Highly polished fruit from some impressive sites in Sonoma (85) and Napa (15). Well done. (AG-ST)Prices:| BC | $46.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $37.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Kendall-Jackson Pinot Noir Grand Reserve 2006
Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesNew for us is the GR pinot representing only one per cent of all the pinot made in the company and it is a treat. Aged nine months in 36 percent new French oak it really projects the chiselled dark fruit flavours of Santa Barbara - Monterey County. The entry is ripe showing sweet, black cherry, pinot fruit in a voluptuous mouthful. Round, mouth-filling, soft, supple delicious styling. This will have mass appeal for the 'Sideways' crowd and budding fans of New World pinot. (AG-ST)Prices:| US | $25.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Grand Reserve 2006
Monterey - Santa Barbara, California, United StatesThe latest GR chardonnay is delicious. The fruit split is mostly settled in at 55/45 between Monterey and Santa Barbara but still only represents a miniscule 3 per cent of total chardonnay that comes off all Jackson estates. Rich open, leesy, nose with fresh red apple fruit drizzled with honey. Sumptuous styling with plenty of tropical fruit flavours including peach, mango pineapple and more. The finish is rich without clinging finishing with bits of mineral and fine acidity. Very impressive effort.Prices:| BC | $39.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $32.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Reserve 2005
California, United StatesA true North Coast cabernet with a rich spicy nose mixing cassis and vanilla aromas with flecks of leather olive and spice. Dry, round, lean on entry with more peppery, black olive, blackcurrant fruit and vanilla flavours. Still quite youthful but tight and not showing much. Best in two to three years when the edges smooth out.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kendall-Jackson Meritage Vintner's Reserve 2005
California, United StatesThe first release in Canada of the Meritage comes with bits of olive, Band-Aid, spicy, earthy, tobacco, cassis and a slightly leafy, resin nose. Round, dry, slightly tight and hollow with light tannins and some alcohol. Smoky, spicy, cassis, peppery, chocolate, resin, black olive flavours with a bit of tobacco and coriander on the finish. Soft, forward, warm and flabby. Needs more fruit.Prices:| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kendall-Jackson Merlot Vintner's Reserve 2005
California, United StatesTasted once and disappointing. The nose is slightly dirty with spicy, leather and green olive notes. The entry is dry and tight. A merlot without a lot of generosity and a bit too much of the tobacco dill and cedar notes. Not quite right. All estate grown North Coast fruit from Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino.Prices:| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Syrah Vintner's Reserve 2005
California, United StatesWell done in '05 with that appealing KJ styling sitting over a ripe, smoky, peppery syrah with just a hint of meaty gamey notes. The palate is round and supple with tasty vanilla black cherry, liquorice root and coffee flavours. Impressive dry, black fruit flavours run through the finish. Its 92 per cent syrah with bits of carignane, grenache and petite sirah. With 72 per cent French oak and climbing, and all estate fruit, it is well on the way to stardom.Prices:| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Pinot Noir Vintner's Reserve 2006
California, United StatesThe nose is pinot with an appealing smoky black cherry aroma and bits of steeped tea. The mid-palate is rich and round with more smoky black fruit and fine structure. Winemaker Randy Ullom adds a dash of syrah to the blend to bolster themed-palate and add some complexity and it seems to work just fine. Much like the previous version this is well managed cool style pinot sourced from Monterey, Santa Barbara, Mendocino Sonoma and Napa counties. Impressive for the price.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kendall-Jackson Riesling Vintner's Reserve 2006
California, United StatesMostly Monterey fruit is behind this sweet, somewhat commercial version of riesling. It's attractive with an open aromatic nose of peaches and orange blossoms. The flavours are equally ripe with more peachy fruit and spicy, dried fruits and sweet aftertaste. Think spicy Asian or Indian cuisine or chill well and serve on the patio.Prices:| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Vintner's Reserve 2006
California, United StatesAmazingly, this 2.3 million case brand is 100 per cent Jackson Estates grown exhibiting the enormous commitment of KJ to source the proper fruit to make its signature label. The 06 has the slightest whiff of lees on the nose that serves to lift the VR out of the realm of the ordinary. Clearly cool fruit with a tropical bent, 90 per cent of the blend is barrel fermented for five months and 61 per cent of that ferment occurs in French oak. A treat to sip and packed with honey, melon, pineapple and mineral fruit and just a hint of butterscotch in the finish it doesn't get much better than this for $20. Elegant stylish modern California chardonnay sourced from 100 per cent coastal fruit from Santa Barbara, (42) Monterey (38) and Mendocino (8) counties.Prices:| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Sauvignon Blanc Vintner's Reserve 2006
California, United StatesWinemaster Randy Ullom continues to shape the VR sauvignon into a more food- friendly, fresh style sauvignon and the '06 is the best yet. Now 99 per cent sauvignon the aromatics are bright and lifted with a cool, super clean nose of citrus, lime rind and tropical fruit aromas. On the palate, the flavours vacillate between tropical and cool nectarine skin. The fruit is predominately Lake County (82%) with bits of fruit from San Luis Obispo (7), Sonoma (7) and Mendocino (3). Revamped and ready to go.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Yellow Tail Chardonnay The Reserve 2004
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaOpen inviting nutty nose with butter, vanilla and citrus notes. On the palate the wine is slightly heavy dosed with vanilla, peach and tropical fruits with a creamy, buttery, nutty finish. Attractive consumer style of what is essentially an intense version of the original chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Finca Los Primos Chardonnay 2006
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaMuch like the previous version this is a straight-forward fresh tasting chardonnay with mineral green apple caramel notes. Smooth round and a touch sweet on the palate with a touch of butter in the finish. Certainly this delivers for the highly affordable price of $10.Prices:| BC | $9.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $10.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Kendall-Jackson Stature Red 2002
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe '02 Stature is a 70/28/2 cabernet /merlot/petit verdot blend that is beginning to awaken. Stature is always the best of the best fruit meaning it is a vintage dependent, block by block pick. Love the coffee, leather, tobacco notes as they mix with the spicy, blackberry jam, clove and cedar aspects. On the palate, the wine is rich, round, supple and concentrated. It has fine density to the corners with smoky, vanilla, coffee, peppery, blackberry jam, black cherry, clove, olive, cardamom flavours with a warm, long finish. It's beginning to shape up but with its finesse and length, it has fine potential to age through 2015. Well done.Prices:| BC | $175.00 | 750ml |
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January 2008