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Tastings: August 2010
31 August 2010
88PTS
Francois Lurton Les Fumées Blanches 2008
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceIs there a better wine at this price in British Columbia? The nose alone, a smoky mineral citrus affair is better than most wines at twice the price. So too is the palate. Enjoy the fresh bits of green melon/gooseberry and grapefruit all with a dash of grass. Clean, balanced and crazy value and all under screwcap which means every bottle is likely the same.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.35 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc Charlotte's Home 2009
Sonoma County, California, United StatesFinally, American white wine vintages are back in synch in this market. You want 2009 sauvignon, not '08 or '07 and tasting this delicious, Sonoma example you can see why. So fresh and bright and under screwcap this is home run restaurant wine list white and note the new price: $17. Look for grassy, lemon/lime rind,, passion fruit flavours all in a clean, fresh white made for local shellfish. Load up.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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29 August 2010
90PTS
Leopold Gourmel Cognac Bio Attitude NV
Cognac, FranceSpent five years in barrel. Uncoloured and unsweetened, this offer up warm, cedary, vanilla, dried cherry, citrus, walnut, spicy, earthy aromas. Very dry, elegant, round, slightly hot palate with vanilla, peppery, spicy, walnut, dried orange, tobacco, cedar, cherry and smoke flavours. A bit fiery but has good flavour complexity and concentration. It is 100 percent certified organic.Prices:| BC | $75.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Brandlin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United StatesCassis, blackberry jam, spicy, liquorice nose with bits of chocolate, saddle leather, tobacco, pepper, iron, pencil lead and cedar aromas. There is fine complexity in what is a ripe, full, warm, supple cabernet. Look for blackberry/cassis, coffee, tobacco, cedar and black olive flavours with a leather, mineral, black pepper finish. Although it finishes a bit hot, there is great fruit and texture here for current drinking or keep for 2-5 years. Has improved over the last 3 years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $94.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cuvaison Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder 2007
Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United StatesOpen spicy, coffee/cassis jam, blackberry, menthol, garrigue nose with bits of barnyard, leather, liquorice root and floral notes. Very warm, round and dry on entry with some light, grippy tannins. Big cassis, spicy, minty, blackberry, coffee, peppery, leather, tobacco and barnyard flavours. Good acidity balance and finesse, drink now - 5 years.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Cuvaison Pinot Noir Block F5 2006
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesSpicy, floral, cherry jam, strawberry, barnyard, carrot top, compost, jasmine aromas. Ripe, rich, warm, full and velvety with light tannins and good acidity. Smoky, carrot top, strawberry jam, black cherry, licorice, compost, barnyard, dried herb and jasmine flavours. A touch warm but with fine fruit and concentration. For drinking over the next two years. Made from a single block site in Carneros.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cuvaison Chardonnay 2008
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesSpicy, citrus, green apple, light lees, floral, baked pear, honey and guava aromas. Ripe, round, fresh and slightly warm with a touch of sweetness and good viscosity. Vanilla, butter, orange, honey, guava, baked green apple and pear with a nutty, creamy finish. Ready to drink now. This chardonnay is 100% barrel fermented and made from 13 different clones. Delicious.Prices:| BC | $39.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $29.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Finca Decero Mini Edicion Petit Verdot Remolinos Vineyard 2007
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaPeppery, spicy, savoury, floral, coffee, black olive, weedy, boysenberry aromas. Round, dry, supple but a bit thin on the mid-palate. Fresh, lighter, lean tannins with peppery, rooty, coffee, black plum, vanilla, savoury, boysenberry flavours. A bit skinnier and leaner than the prior vintage but good for young vines.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 707 2007
South Australia, AustraliaDark cherry colour. Coffee, vanilla, cassis, tobacco, cedar, prune plum, saddle leather, black olive, clove aromas. Ripe, round, full, dry palate with some grippy tannins and fresh acidity. Cassis jam, chocolate, espresso, tobacco leaf, cedar, black olive, meaty, vanilla, soy and licorice root flavour. Warm, somewhat tart finish but very good flavours. Needs 3-5 years to soften out and perhaps flesh out the slightly skinny mid-palate. Best with grilled beef or lamb.Prices:| BC | $150.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $145.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $199.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $160.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $120.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $110.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $120.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $130.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Zonin Primo Amore Pinot Grigio 2008
Veneto, ItalyPear, honey, matchstick, earthy, citrus aromas. Fresh, round, slightly sweet entry with baked pear, citrus, red apple and honey flavours. Simple, easy, read to drink style.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Gray Monk Pinot Auxerrois 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeach, matchstick, green apple, pear, citrus aromas. Fresh, round, sweet entry with moderate acidity. Green apple, pear skin, honey, grapefruit flavours. Warm, sweet and sour finish. Easy-sipping, picnic-style white.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, lime, grapefruit, honey, matchstick aromas. Round, sweet, fat entry. Candied apple, honey, lime rind flavours. Too sweet, too warm and too heavy to appeal to $20 pinot gris drinkers.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Black Hills Carmenere 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDill pickle, green olive, tobacco leaf, riparian and chocolate aromas. Round, dry, soft palate with dill pickle, herbal, smoked tomato, olive and coffee aromas. Not much happening here and at a hefty $50 a bottle. Who is zooming who? Totally reliant on oak to cover up a lack of ripeness and concentration. Disappointing, given earlier examples.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Black Hills Nota Bene 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCranberry, crushed tobacco leaf, floral, black olive, peppery, cassis, dried herb, coffee vanilla oak aromas. Dry, tight, elegant but light bodied with light, dry tannins. A bit tart with cassis, cranberry, herbal, green olive, green bean, coffee, vanilla, chocolate, tobacco leaf and roasted meat flavours with some cedar bark notes. Simple, somewhat lean and green style that lacks concentration. Ploddingly ordinary.Prices:| BC | $53.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 407 2007
South Australia, AustraliaChocolate, mint, cassis, black cherry, iodine, tobacco, peppery, vanilla, saddle leather aromas. Dry, tight, medium bodied palate with some youthful, grainy tannins. Tobacco, black olive, cassis, coffee, vanilla, dried herb and cedar flavours. A bit tart and grippy now but will be good with a steak.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.15 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Shiraz Bin 389 2007
South Australia, AustraliaBig black cherry jam, cassis, plum, coffee, mocha, vanilla, licorice, peppery aromas. Ripe, round, moderately rich palate with some youthful tannin and fresh acidity. Chocolate, coffee, cassis jam, black cherry, vanilla, licorice, five spice, tobacco and black pepper flavours. Warm and youthful and a bit tart on the finish, should improve over the next 4-7 years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $41.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $38.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $38.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $41.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Blind Trust Red +10/10 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWarm peppery, cherry/coffee/chocolate nose with bits of black olive, vanilla, liquorice root and savoury aromas. The entry is fresh with light, grainy tannins that preview a smoky, vanilla, chocolate, espresso, cherry red with flecks of worsteshire, grilled meat, black olive and dried herbs. Solid but quite oaky and somewhat short in mid-palate concentration (young vines?). We like the price and quality and high merlot content and expect this wine will continue to gain in weight and power in the bottle. Theblend is 78/13/9 merlot, malbec and cabernet sauvignon.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Cuvaison Pinot Noir 2006
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesSpicy, compost, orange peel, strawberry jam, celery, smoky, barnyard, vanilla aromas with a rooty note. Ripe, round, dry palate with light tannins and some elegance. Cherry, strawberry, smoky, celery salt, green tea, vanilla, licorice flavours. Two years later and this is fully ready, soft and forward with good fruit expression. Blended from 24 blocks.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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28 August 2010
86PTS
St. Hallett Poacher's Semillon Sauvignon 2009
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaGrapefruit, gooseberry, grassy, asparagus, floral, green apple nose. Tart, dry, elegant palate with grassy, gooseberry, grapefruit, lime, honey, floral, jalapeno flavours. A leaner style but has a touch of oiliness for palate viscosity. The leanest version yet; think oysters. Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.15 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.10 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap Viognier Chenin Blanc Grenache Blanc 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaFloral, honey, white peach, ginger, earthy, matchstick, citrus aromas. Round, soft, full, forward palate with ginger, honey, buttery lees, spicy, guava, baked citrus flavours. Good intensity but could use a bit fresher acidity. Try with Indian or Thai food.Prices:| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sandalford Classic Dry White 2009
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaBig grapefruit rind, grassy, artichoke, light asparagus, granny smith, lime rind aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy, slightly sweet entry. Passion fruit, grapefruit, lime rind, grassy, artichoke, granny smith and gooseberry flavours. Good intensity and balance although the finish is a bit light. Good oyster and sole wine.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz 2006
South Australia, AustraliaBig blackberry, black plum, licorice, spicy, coriander, savoury, cedar, blueberry, meaty aromas. Rich, smooth, round, velvety palate with fresh acidity and light, tight tannins. Blueberry, coffee, peppery, black cherry jam, floral, spicy, mineral, licorice flavours. Good finesse and length but young, needs 3-5 years to fully soften. Thriving under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $64.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $46.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $52.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $64.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $55.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $54.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz 2007
Adelaide Plains, South Australia, AustraliaBig blackberry jam, floral, vanilla, licorice, mocha, meaty, marmite, tobacco, saddle leather, eucalyptus aromas. Ripe, full, warm, fresh palate with some grainy tannins. Coffee, mocha, coconut, vanilla, black cherry jam, licorice, Christmas pudding, blueberry, nutmeg, Oxo, five spice flavours. Good fruit intensity and concentration but very youthful. Needs 5-7 years to reach its peak.Prices:| ON | $75.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $76.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $75.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $76.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $75.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $74.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2009
Coastal Region, South AfricaVery spicy, smoky, chocolate, meaty, peppery, coffee, barnyard, leather and blackberry jam aromas. Ripe, round, supple, fresh palate with velvety tannins. Blackberry jam, pruny, meaty, smoky, leather, floral, gamey flavours.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $17.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.85 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Penfolds Shiraz Kalimna Bin 28 2007
South Australia, AustraliaSpicy, smoky, graphite, licorice, chocolate, peppery, pruny, black cherry, saddle leather, light rooty, cola aromas. Ripe, rich, dry, tight palate with some youthful tannins and fresh acidity. Very warm with blueberry, blackberry, liquorice, vanilla, coffee, cola, rooty, graphite flavours. Finish has some black tea tannins at the end. Consistent with the last version with a somewhat light mid-palate. Needs 4-5 years to soften out. A classic with lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $41.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $37.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $38.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $40.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Penfolds Shiraz Bin 128 2007
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaPeppery, blackberry jam, prune, floral, vanilla, meaty, tobacco, licorice root, saddle leather aromas. Warm entry with fresh acidity and some tight tannins. Cherry jam, coffee, vanilla, coconut, peppery, resin, rooty, mocha, blueberry flavours with a touch of tobacco leaf and olive on the finish. Nice finesse and grippy but a bit short on the finish and on the mid-palate.Prices:| BC | $41.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Syrah +24/9 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, vanilla, mocha, peppery, barnyard, blackberry, savoury aromas. Round, smooth, dry, fresh and warm palate with light tannins. Coffee, coconut, vanilla, peppery, spicy, chocolate, blackberry, tobacco leaf, meaty flavours with a cedary, green tea note on the finish. Warm and well-balanced but very oaky at this point. Next step a little less winemaking and little more soul. Give this another year or two in bottle for best results.This is the first syrah release at LS using East Bench Osoyoos vineyard fruit. The blend is 92 percent syrah with 8 percent viognier. Prices:| BC | $34.10 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Rosemount Diamond Cellars Grenache - Shiraz 2008
AustraliaPeppery, prune, spicy, coffee, black raspberry, rooty, floral nose. Soft, fresh, round and sweet entry with lots of black raspberry, plum, licorice, spicy, orange and tobacco flavours. Fun, warm, sweet fruity entry level consumer style for barbecue ribs.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pasqua Villa Borghetti Passimento Rosso 2007
Veneto, ItalyMeaty, tobacco leaf, chocolate, prune, menthol, peppery, cedar, floral, cherry nose. Round, dry, supple palate with earthy, rooty, cherry, smoky, prune and tobacco flavours with an herbaceous side. Well balanced and ready to drink now. Try this with grilled meat.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Qwam Qwmt Syrah 2007
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBlack cherry, savoury, peppery, meaty, vanilla, floral, herbal, black olive, leather and tobacco aromas with a touch of prune and mocha. Round, dry, elegant but leaner style palate. Savoury, licorice root, vanilla, dried herb, cherry, tobacco, black olive, rooty flavours. Well balanced and forward. Slightly riper fruit would perfectly complete the picture.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Qwam Qwmt Meritage 2007
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSolid round, dry, elegant palate with dark fruit aromas and light tannins. Coffee, savoury, liquorice, tobacco, earthy, black olive, resin and prune plum flavours. Good finesse and balance but still showing some savoury green elements that need to disappear so this wine can move to the next level.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
La Posta Malbec Cocina Blend 2008
Perdriel District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaVery spicy, resin, meaty, sausage, barnyard, coffee, savoury, sweaty saddle and black berry aromas. Dry, round, fresh palate with meaty, spicy, black cherry, cooked carrot, menthol, barnyard and Band-Aid flavours. Very rustic style and not up to the last edition.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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27 August 2010
88PTS
Bastianich Sauvignon 'B' 2009
Veneto, ItalyPassion fruit, gooseberry, nettle, grassy, grapefruit rind aromas. Fresh, juicy palate with a bit of sweetness. Nettle, lemon, light asparagus, grapefruit rind and gooseberry flavours. Good solid, balanced easy style for current drinking.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Wither Hills Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandGreen apple, gooseberry, passion fruit, smoky jalapeno aromas with a touch of asparagus and green melon. Fresh, crisp, juicy palate with good finesse and a touch of sweetness. Grapefruit, lemon nettle, passion fruit, jalapeno, gooseberry, granny smith and asparagus flavours. Very juicy, slightly herbaceous style with lots of intensity. Wither Hills is blended from 15 individual vineyard sites in Wairau Valley.Prices:| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Long Flat White Semillon Sauvignon 2008
AustraliaGrassy, lemon grass, asparagus, grapefruit, lime rind, green apple aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy style with a fair bit of sweetness. Jalapeno, asparagus, pink grapefruit, nettle, gooseberry, grassy flavours. Fun and fresh if a bit sweet.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Twisted Tree Syrah 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMeaty, peppery, sausage, spicy, garrigue, resin, tobacco, vanilla, espresso and tobacco leaf aromas. Round, soft but somewhat tart palate giving a touch of leanness. Warm with big espresso, coffee oak, vanilla, peppery, blackberry jam, meaty, floral flavours with a leafy note on the finish. Good savoury fruit notes but needs some additional texture and extract to balance the acidity.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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25 August 2010
86PTS
Llama Malbec Old Vine 2008
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig spicy, savoury nose with bits of vanilla, tobacco, olive, roasted pepper and dark cherry aromas. Round, soft, easy, somewhat flat entry with peppery, tobacco, plum, earthy, savoury, cherry chocolate flavours. An attartcive easy drinking style red wine for assorted meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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24 August 2010
87PTS
The Rhoning Stones 2007
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FrancePruny, black cherry, leather, dried fig, peppery, resin aromas. Dry, round, supple, slightly warm palate with spicy, peppery, resin, liquorice, black plum, orange, floral flavours. Good intensity on the palate but very warm finish with a pruny, flat edge. Drink now.Prices:| US | $12.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
M. Chapoutier Rasteau Côtes du Rhône Villages 2008
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceBig white pepper smoky, liquorice, thyme, black cherry, saddle leather and prune aromas. Round, dry, elegant, slightly tannic palate but good concentration. Black raspberry, meaty, carrot, smoky, garrigue, leather, tobacco and resin flavours. A bit pruny on the finish but has good structure for the next 2 years.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
M. Chapoutier Petit Ruche Crozes-Hermitage 2008
Crozes Hermitage, Northern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceBig black pepper, liquorice, garrigue, meaty, leather, cherry, blackberry, tobacco and herb aromas. Dry, round, supple, elegant palate, a much understated style with good acidity. Leather, meaty, spicy, cherry, tobacco leaf, roasted pepper, prune and licorice flavours. A lighter style for near term consumption but good finesse for dinner drinking. Good value.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
M. Chapoutier La Ciboise Rouge 2009
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceBig peppery, meaty, spicy, black cherry jam, smoky, leather, chocolate aromas. Ripe, round, supple, elegant palate with very light tannins. Black cherry jam, orange, chocolate, chalky, peppery, spicy meat, leather, garrigue flavours. Finish is fresh and fruity with a chocolate, grilled meat, black raspberry jam finish. Warm but not heavy and great fruit. Very good value here. The blend is 60/30/10 grenache/syrah/carignan-mourvèdre.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
M. Chapoutier Chateau des Estubier Côteaux-du-Tricastin 2007
Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceVery meaty, gamey, saddle leather, liquorice, prune, black cherry, rooty, orange peel, barnyard, tobacco aromas. Warm, round, dry and slightly hollow mid-palate with light tannins. Peppery, pruny, liquorice root, resin, meaty, tobacco, cooked carrot, earthy, black cherry flavours. Well made and fine quality but showing a bit backward at this stage. Give this one some extra time in bottle.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Delas Saint Esprit Côtes du Rhône 2008
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceFloral, black cherry, liquorice, garrigue, peppery, plum aromas. Dry, round, supple and elegant but with lightly grippy tannins on the palate and fine acidity. Plum, black cherry, spicy, licorice, dark chocolate, peppery, rooty flavours. Good finesse and length but need a year to soften or try with lamb. We like the value here too.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine de l'Auster Mosaïque 2008
Faugères, Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceVery meaty, gamey, black cherry, spicy, liquorice, cocoa, cedar, floral, tobacco leaf aromas. Round, soft, rich and supple palate but very warm. Peppery, floral, sausage meat, black raspberry jam, kirsch, garrigue, liquorice candy and tobacco leaf flavours. Big intensity but also big alcohol. Drink it cool during the winter with a lamb stew. Made from vines grown at an elevation of just under 1000 feet on soils of schist and marble.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Penfolds Shiraz - Mourvèdre Bin 2 2008
South Australia, AustraliaImpressive rich blueberry/ black cherry nose with floral, liquorice root, spicy, pencil lead and black pepper aromas. Round, supple, smooth and rich on entry it there is plenty more smoky, spicy, black cherry jam, blueberry, chocolate, vanilla, mocha flavours. The style is fresh and even fruity with fine intensity and concentration. Good value and a nice jump up in quality to match the jump in price. The blend is 88 per cent syrah and 12 percent mourvèdre.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Cabernet Merlot 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, cassis, black olive, floral, rooty, coffee aromas with a touch of leaf and herb. Dry, round, elegant but lean and a bit austere. Earthy, coffee, peppery, rooty, minty, green bean, black olive, resin, cassis flavours. A slightly greener, austere style that is best with grilled meat.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
M. Chapoutier Domaine de Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem Rouge 2008
Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, Sud de France, FrancePeppery, smoky, meaty, black cherry, plum, leather, barnyard, garrigue, liquorice aromas. Ripe, round, dry, elegant palate with light tannins and good body. Smoky, meaty, peppery, Oxo, black cherry, plum, leather, coffee, spiced carrot flavours. Good complexity for drinking now and over the next year. The blend is syrah, grenache and carignan aged in 50 per cent oak and 50 per cent tank. Delicious now but no rush to drink this.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine 2007
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceSmoky, meaty, spicy nose of black cherry, tobacco, garrigue with licorice root, leather, plum jam, orange peel and chocolate notes. Ripe, round, rich, smooth, suave palate but warm with big extract. Kirsch, black cherry jam, meaty, leather, coffee, peppery, vanilla, tobacco, liquorice flavours. Great fruit and finesse in a warm, forward style. The blend is mainly grenache, with a lesser proportion of syrah and mourvèdre.Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $53.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
La Vieille Ferme Côtes du Ventoux Rouge 2008
Ventoux, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FrancePeppery, leather, spicy, rooty, black cherry, liquorice, meaty aromas. Soft, round, velvety palate with earthy, black raspberry, peppery, liquorice root, spicy, orange peel and mineral flavours. Warm, clean and fresh but good solid fruit and style for current drinking. The Perrin Cotes du Ventoux is mostly grenache with small percentages of syrah, mourvèdre and cinsault. Love the value here.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.30 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.30 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.75 | 750ml |
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23 August 2010
91PTS
Stags' Leap Petite Sirah 2007
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThirty year old estate vineyards on deep, rocky soils are at the heart of this blend. You can taste the intense small berry fruit right up front with bits of mocha and dark chocolate. The blend also contains a selection of syrah, mourvèdre, grenache, carignane, peloursin and viognier to add balance and complexity. Expect a rich, intense, black fruit flavoured red that will stand up to and roasted meats.Prices:| NB | $46.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $48.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $55.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Coastal Region, South AfricaRefreshing clean well made style with notes of gooseberry, citrus and mild grassy notes. On the palate look for more tropical fruit notes with a grassy, zesty, finish. A simple but well made sauvignon that is perfect for most shellfish dishes.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Long Flat Pinot Grigio 2009
AustraliaNot a lot of aroma on the nose here but subtle hints of green apple skin and pear. The palate is crisp and clean with bits of green apples and citrus but lacks intensity. Simple clean style white wine that lacks a little soul.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesClassic Sonoma with that peppery, tobacco leaf earthy nose with red fruits underneath. The entry is elegant on the palate with a spicy olive, dill, cedar flavour streaked with bits of roasted coffee bean. Simple styling with some elevated acidity and cedar in the finish. Ready to drink now. Try it with grilled meats. Simple, forward style for current consumption with light tannins.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 750ml |
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22 August 2010
88PTS
El Escondido de Don Domenico Bonarda 2005
San Juan, ArgentinaIt's easy to like this wine with its mature bottle flavours, fruity nose and harmonious palate. Look for a sweet, round, plummy/jammy fruit with fairly prominent acidity and a long, soft finish punctuated with bits of vanilla and pepper. Delicious drinking right now. Perfect for rib-eye steaks.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vino Grigio 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThree years in a row constitutes consistency and this Naramata pinot grigio has it. Love the bright floral, spicy, ginger and peach fruit that spills onto the palate with bits of lemon oil, green apple skin, light lees and nectarine flavours. Solid fruit expression with balance just a whisper of that oily Alsace body and heat. Well done.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Flat Roof Manor Pinot Grigio 2009
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaWhat do you do when you like the wine but it doesn't really taste like pinot gris. If anything, this thin lemony crisp white is more grigio than gris but if you tasted it blind it is more sauvignon blanc than pinot gris. Try this with shellfish and enjoy the flavours for what they are.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
McWilliam's Hanwood Pinot Grigio 2009
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaAnother fine value Oz pinot grigio from McWilliams now under screwcap that is brimming with freshness and delicacy with bright grapefruit and orange aromas and flavours throughout. Bright stone fruit nuances. Food-friendly and affordable.Prices:| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Beringer Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Napa Valley, California, United StatesWinemaker Laurie Hook continues to hone a fresher cooler, modern style of sauvignon that has wide appeal. Expect a wine with a light, grapefruit/honey nose and aromas with a delicious, juicy appealing aftertaste. Perfect for grilled prawns.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Napa Valley, California, United StatesCalifornia cabernet has this hedonistic soft underbelly that gives it so much appeal among red wine drinkers. This sensible, "new' label from Beringer is cabernet pulled from Beringer's many vineyard sites across Napa Valley. Expect bright, cassis-scented fruit with bits of wild plums and cedar and traces of lead pencil. The palate is soft and fat with rich, dark, red fruit and bits of chocolate. Classic Napa cabernet that is ready to drink.Prices:| bc | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $49.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $39.00 | 750ml |
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10 August 2010
92PTS
Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaWinemakers Paul Hobbs and Luis Barraud are making blockbuster New World style cabernet from young vines at the Marchiori property at Perdriel, Mendoza. The wine is tightly wound with rich muscular fruit and power throughout its considerable length. Plums chocolate and spice mark the palate, while soft grainy tannins mark the finish. Cellar this one for another five years and then get out the steaks.Prices:| BC | $43.00 | 750ml |
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09 August 2010
87PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Qwam Qwmt Merlot 2007
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCedar, chocolate, leather, savoury, meaty, cassis, minty, sappy, bay leaf and cranberry aromas reminiscent of Maipo Valley, Chile. Round, dry, supple, elegant palate with light tannins. Spicy, peppery, black cherry, olive, cedar, minty, meaty, coffee, resin and leather flavours with a minty, sour cherry, black tea finish. Warm and a bit rustic on the tannins, needs a year or two to soften.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Clos l'Esquirol 2007
Minervois la Liviniere, Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceBig black liquorice, black plum, savoury, spicy, peppery, meaty, coffee, vanilla, smoky, wild herb aromas. Ripe, round, rich, full but elegant palate with fresh acidity. Intense black cherry, black raspberry, meaty, rooty, liquorice, savoury, herb, fig and sausage flavours. On the wild fruit side with countryside and fresh acidity but offers a ton of fresh fruit flavours. Lamb stew or pork loin and rosemary. Worth trying and good value.Prices:| BC | $19.75 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery Trutch Map Rosé 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, cherry, spicy, leafy, citrus, grapefruit aromas. Round, moderately sweet, fresh palate with strawberry, leafy, rhubarb, peppery, citrus flavours. Simple, easy, fresh picnic style rosé.Prices:| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mission Hill S.L.C. Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGooseberry, hay, grapefruit, lemon grass, smoky, passion fruit aromas with a bit of grassy, minty, vanilla, butter notes. Fresh, dry, crisp style with a note of austerity. Elegant with juicy green apple, passion fruit, grapefruit, grassy, waxy, lemon, butter, vanilla, herbal, bell pepper flavours. Good acidity and balance with finesse. Not a showy wine but a great seafood match. Fine effort and value again.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Olivares Jumilla Rosado 2009
Jumilla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainCherry, leafy, somewhat volatile, bruised apple, stewed rhubarb aromas. Fresh, slightly austere palate with a bit of sweetness. Apple skin, herbal, spicy, cherry, rhubarb flavours with a leafy, strawberry jam and bitter note.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Masi Modello Rosato delle Venezie 2009
Verona, Veneto, ItalyFloral, strawberry, light cherry, marzipan, citrus aromas. Clean, light, zippy palate with green apple, leafy, dried herb, citrus, rhubarb flavours. An easy, fresh style for summer.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pascual Toso Malbec Rosé 2009
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, mineral, citrus, cherry, apple, currant aromas. Round, off dry, fresh palate with an earthy, spicy, cherry, tobacco, spicy, currant palate. Good intensity with some extract to offer pairings with food.Prices:| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Dominique Piron Domaine de la Chanaise Beaujolais-Villages 2009
Beaujolais Villages, Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceGood colour with a carbonic cherry, peppery, licorice, spicy, gamy, dried herb, savoury nose. Dry, fresh, elegant, slightly tight palate with light tannins. Mineral, earthy, cherry, spicy, licorice root, smoky, slightly meaty flavours. Good finesse in a lighter, more austere style for food.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Falesco Umbria Merlot 2007
Umbria, ItalyMeaty, saddle leather, peppery, earthy, sausage, iodine, tobacco, cherry, resin, olive aromas. Rich, round, full, somewhat fresh palate with light, dry tannins. Cherry, tobacco, cedar, peppery, herbal, olive, meaty, saddle leather, resin and vanilla flavours. Finish is very dry and rustic with some tannins to shed. Needs some time to settle down but it will always be a bit wild.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinot Blanc 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRipe pear, floral, apple skin, buttery, earthy, grassy, nettle aromas. Round, delicate, juicy, slightly oily palate with a bit of sweetness. Floral, melon, honey, pear skin, green apple, grapefruit, mineral flavours. Simple, fresh, elegant style for light seafood.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Hugel Pinot Blanc "Blanc de Blancs" 2006
Alsace, FranceHoney, petrol, buttery, baked peach, baked apple and pear skin aromas. Dry, full, elegant palate but a bit flat with mineral, earthy, butter, nutty, honey, apple skin flavours. A bit mature for 2006 but solid.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Rosemount Diamond Cellars Shiraz Cabernet 2008
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaSpicy, cola, licorice, tobacco leaf, olive, black cherry, and resin aromas. Round, slightly tannic entry with a sweet edge. Black olive, tobacco leaf, black plum, herbal, spicy, rooty flavours. Finish is a bit bitter and leafy. Simple stuff.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.50 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.50 | 750ml |
| PEI | $16.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Domaine La Lieue Chardonnay 2009
Provence, Sud de France, FrancePerfumy, lemon oil, candied apple, pear, mineral aromas. Round, oily, sweet entry with candied apple, floral, spicy, almond, lemon oil and honey flavours. Fun but very sweet and sour style, not quite the wine it was last time out.Prices:| QC | $15.55 | 750ml |
| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Henry Fessy Saint-Amour 2008
Saint-Amour, Beaujolais Villages, Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceMeaty, black pepper, spicy, licorice root, somewhat dirty lees, mercaptan, cranberry aromas. Dry, light, tart, somewhat lean entry with cranberry, earthy, peppery, tobacco leaf, wild cherry, licorice flavours. A delicate, leaner's style but with some off aroma issues.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Blue Mountain Gamay Noir 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, earthy, spicy, black cherry, riparian nose with smoky, savoury, gamey aromas. Round, dry, elegant palate but the style is a bit tart and lean. The palate is a mix cherry, spicy, meaty, tobacco flavours flecked with herbal, peppery, riparian flavours. A rustic gamay for game birds.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Las Moras Tannat 2007
Valle del Tulum, San Juan, ArgentinaPeppery, meaty, gamy, black berry, spicy, rooty, chocolate aromas. Ripe, round, dry, slightly tannic palate with some warmth. Smoky, liquorice, savoury, chocolate cherry, meaty, blackberry, resin, sappy flavours. Warm and slightly tart on the finish. Should be perfect with lamb or meat stews.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Twisted Tree Tempranillo 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen spicy, sage, savoury nose with cherry, leafy, clove, poultry spice, liquorice and meaty, floral aromas. Ripe, round, supple, warm and fresh palate but a bit hard and green in the tannins. Savoury, spicy, vanilla, liquorice root, tobacco leaf, black tea, cherry jam and coffee flavours. Good solid effort with what has been a tough variety for the Okanagan.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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08 August 2010
88PTS
Sebastiani Sonoma Chardonnay 2008
Sonoma County, California, United StatesA lot has been said and written about no oak wines and wines showing little or no oak in the mouth but sometimes when it is done right California chardonnay can be fun oak and all. Sebastiani has always done a great job managing the oak with plenty of honey and butter and a fresh undercurrent of lees. The '08 edition with its slightly oily palate is awash in tropical fruit, vanilla, spicy baked apple fruit with a touch of honey and butterscotch in the finish. There is good acidity and palate lift to handle all the flavours. Try this with lobster or fresh Dungeness crab.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Tapiz Torrontés 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaA carbon copy of the last vintage this is Torrontés you can depend on. Expect a fragrant sweet aromatic nose with simply delicious juicy ripe peachy pear, tropical fruit with green apple and litchi bits. Full flavoured and balanced with lively acidity and fruit it will work with myriad menu items. Try it solo before dinner with appetizers or with main course roast chickens or turkey.Prices:| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Syrah Vintner's Reserve 2007
California, United StatesThe KJ syrah is super ripe with lush fruit flavours of peppery boysenberry and blackberry jam with bits of meaty spicy gamy notes. The fruit comes off an amazing array of sites in Mendocino County, Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County and Sonoma County. The fruit is impressively rich and dark but with that California sweetness. It is all aged ten months 70/30 mix of French and American oak. Well made and improving every year.Prices:| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Kendall-Jackson Stature Red 2005
Napa Valley, California, United StatesAs in previous editions Stature mixes rich mountain fruit cabernet sauvignon (85) and malbec (5) now with 10 percent merlot off Jackson Park in Sonoma's Bennett Valley. The nose is a mix of sweet vanilla and deep dark berry fruit notes with lots of spicy and fine grained tannins. Dark rich glossy and youthful this wine needs another five years to mature in bottle before it can begin to reveal its future. It is aged 17 months in French and American oak of which 87 per cent is new. Only 238 cases were made.Prices:| BC | $169.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $170.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $107.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $109.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rolling Shiraz 2008
Central Ranges, New South Wales, AustraliaTypical cedar soup nose with bits of blueberries and spice. The entry is soft and round with ripe warm peppery fruit flavours and some acidity poking through the back end. The finish is soft warm with some sweet liquorice and chocolate notes. Simple, ordinary Oz shiraz.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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07 August 2010
87PTS
Sileni Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandIt's hard to find any New Zealand wine at this price point so it is a delight to sip sauvignon blanc at $15. Expect a mix of tropical notes and gooseberry fruit flavours all in a fresh package. Lemon herbal buy no asparagus notes makes this a winner at this price point. Drink it with mussels and clams for a home run.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Santa Julia Organica Malbec Cabernet 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaAdding cabernet to the malbec mix freshens up the mix. Spicy, mocha, black cherry notes with more floral undercurrents and the rich soft underbelly of the malbec is stiffened by the cabernet. Rich savoury tasty barbecue red with a soft jammy liquorice finish. Another fine effort that punches well above its price range again.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Herder Meritage 2008
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAttractive open, fresh, floral nose with plums, green olives and spicy savoury notes. Similar fresh notes on the palate with cran-cherry fruit and deftly handled tannins - hooray. This is the style we do best and one the world will welcome. Drink now with roasted meats or cellar for three to five years.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Twisted Tree Tannat 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCorked try another...Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Pascual Toso Syrah 2008
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSmoky animal meaty nose with bits of liquorice and blackberry. The entry is spicy with more smoky glossy, vanilla and red fruit. Totally fun for the price and ready to drink. Back up the truck and start the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $13.60 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.25 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Vina Maipo Carmenère 2008
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileFine dark colour previews a leafy spicy nose with bits of chocolate and cran-cherry. The palate follows suit with a smooth but peppery red fruit flavour. Pretty good carmenère character for not a lot of money. Think hamburgers, grilled flank steak ribs even meaty pasta dishes. Great for parties. Decant for 30 minutes to get the best out of this bottle.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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06 August 2010
90PTS
Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Clare Valley, South Australia, AustraliaInviting smoky, spicy, cassis nose with bits of cedar and black olive. The entry is soft with ripe blueberry/ black fruit flavours and smoky vanilla and oak with a touch of coffee chocolate in the finish. It has some cabernet firmness but with a glossy undertone to soothe the palate. Bring on the lamb roast.Prices:| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Pétales d'Osoyoos 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe current Pétales, edition No. 4, is tight and restrained with resiny, cherry, black olive aromas with dried herbs and coffee in the back end. Similar resin and dry tannins mark its palate which while elegant remains tight and closed with peppery, cranberry fruit. Surprisingly tight for a second label, it needs another three to five years in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Mouton Cadet Rouge 2007
Bordeaux, FranceThe '07 seems more approachable than previous offerings. Expect a nice mix of soft red and black fruit with smooth tannins. The blend is merlot dominated with about 35 per cent cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc picked across several Bordeaux appellations. It is ready to drink now. Try it with grilled flank steak.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.75 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.80 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.99 | 750ml |
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05 August 2010
89PTS
Three Winds Syrah 2008
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceSpicy savoury smoked meat nose with bits of tar, violets black pepper and earth. Tightly wound firm mid-palate with peppery, meaty, spicy, juicy black cherry, plum and licorice root flavours. A delicious syrah at a great price; it is the essence of the competition. Serve with lamb chops or grilled beef. Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bogle Vineyards Merlot 2008
Lodi, Central Valley, California, United StatesA mix of fruit from Clarksburg, Lodi, Monterey and El Dorado all barrel aged in American oak has spawned a soft, glossy generous red with textbook plum and cherry fruit flavours. Attractive style merlot with fine intensity and length. Try it with soft cheeses, pork or tomato pasta dishes. Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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02 August 2010
87PTS
Painted Rock Chardonnay 2009
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMango, butter, vanilla, lees, canned grapefruit aromas with a touch of fruit cocktail and baked green apple. Dry, crisp, somewhat austere entry with light extract. Light lees, vanilla, butter, grapefruit, passion fruit, green apple skin flavours and a touch of cedar. Finish is waxy with a very buttery, tart, austere edge. All headed in the right direction it just needs a bit more fruit intensity to absorb the rest of the wine. Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Mission Hill Perpetua Chardonnay Osoyoos Vineyard Estate 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGreen apple, citrus rind, light melon, orange, grapefruit aromas with a touch of vanilla and pear. Fresh, crisp, juicy, dry palate with ample acidity. Grapefruit, mineral, green apple, spicy lees, light vanilla, butter and nectarine flavours. Finish has a bit of lime and floral notes. Good finesse in a fresher style that should age well over the next few years. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Penfolds Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay 2007
Tasmania, South Australia, AustraliaNice fresh lemon, buttery, nutty lees, toasty, pear, baked apple, lime, salty, waxy aromas. Fresh, crisp, delicate palate with juicy acidity in a more austere, linear style. Lime, grapefruit, nutty, spicy lees, light garlic, creamy vanilla, green apple flavours with a touch of seashore, butterscotch and chalk. Good balance and finesse in a fresh, tarter style that should age well over the next 3-5 years. The fruit is mostly from Tasmania 49 the remainder is picked at Adelaide Hills, Henty (Drumborg).Prices:| BC | $94.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $90.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $100.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $86.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $90.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $90.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Poplar Grove Chardonnay 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaInviting, butter, light lees, pineapple, grapefruit, baked apple aromas with a nutty/bread, note. Round, ripe, soft, light-bodied style with an oily touch in the finish. Guava, leesy, buttery, pineapple, grapefruit rind and green apple flavours with a light nutty, bitter citrus note. Classy mid-weight chardonnay for chicken and seafood dishes.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandNice passion fruit, lime, grapefruit rind, jalapeno, light asparagus with a light floral, waxy, melon note. Ripe, round, elegant, full palate with creamy, mineral acidity but also a touch austere. Gooseberry, smoky, asparagus, passion fruit, lime and grapefruit flavour with a touch of honey and orange with a nettle finish. Good concentration and acidity. The label Greywacke takes its name from the river stones in Kevin Judd's (Cloudy Bay fame) vineyard in Rapaura. The wines are made at Dog Point Vineyard in the lower Brancott Valley. Can't wait to taste the pinot noir.Prices:| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Columbia Crest Two Vines Unoaked Chardonnay 2008
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesPear, green apple skin, light butter, citrus, floral nose. Round, warm, fresh, slightly sweet entry with light tropical, baked apple, citrus and pear skin flavours. Simple and fresh with a tart, juicy finish. Finally under screwcap and it is working.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Columbia Crest Merlot 2007
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesPrune, soupy, cherry, tobacco, leather, olive aromas with a bit of barnyard and Brett. Round, soft, light, supple palate with some sweetness. Chocolate, cedar, tobacco, olive, pruny, cherry, meaty, herbal flavours. Very mature, ready-to-drink style.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Columbia Crest Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesBig mocha, chocolate, meaty, barnyard, peppery, earthy, tobacco aromas. Sweet, round, supple, fresh palate with pruny, animal, barnyard, leather, stewed prune, Band-Aid and roasted pepper flavours. Very rustic, meaty, Bretty style.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesPeppery, tobacco, earthy, cedar, meaty, animal, cassis, black cherry, saddle leather aromas. Dry, fresh, slightly tannic, lean palate. Coffee, prune, tobacco, leather, meaty, cassis jam, riparian, olive, vanilla cream flavours. Drink now with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| US | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Columbia Crest Grand Estate Merlot 2006
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesSpicy, prune, cherry, cedar, chocolate, vanilla, meaty, leather and barnyard aromas. Round, soft, supple palate with very light tannins. Coffee, vanilla, chocolate, pruny, cherry, meaty, resin, leather, spicy flavours. A bit rustic but ready to go with fruit.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| US | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Catena Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Mendoza, ArgentinaPeppery, cassis, tobacco, coffee, coriander, cedar, black cherry, vanilla, meaty, leather aromas. Rich, full, vibrant palate with slightly linear tannins but good balance. Smoky, herbal, black olive, tobacco, cassis, licorice root, savoury, roasted pepper flavours. Cooler, tighter intellectual style with vibrant acidity that should improve in the next year or two. Great with food.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.75 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kendall-Jackson Merlot Vintner's Reserve 2007
Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeppery, spicy, prune, tobacco, cherry jam, cedar bark, chocolate, black olive aromas. Round, dry, somewhat tart, light palate. Herbal, tobacco, cedar bark, cherry, resin, leather flavours with a prune note. A bit tired.Prices:| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| US | $18.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Grand Reserve 2008
Monterey - Santa Barbara, California, United StatesWinemaker Randy Ullom hits all the right notes with this delicious floral, spicy, green apple, peachy melon nose flecked with guava, vanilla, light lychee, lime and a dusting of nutty lees. The palate is fresh and crisp with elegant styling, juicy acidity and rich minerality. Baked green apple, floral, spicy, mango, pineapple, honey, buttery, vanilla, nutty, lime and melon flavours. Good complexity and balance in a brighter style than in the past. Drink now or over the next few years. This wine really deserves a better name than 'Grand Reserve.'Prices:| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $32.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 750ml |
| US | $24.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Kendall-Jackson Merlot Grand Reserve 2007
Sonoma - Napa, California, United StatesSpicy, peppery, black cherry, light coffee, tobacco, black olive, vanilla, barnyard aromas with a touch of plum, orange and carrot top. Round, dry, supple, fresh palate with light tannins. Cherry, tart plum, chocolate, peppery, cedar, tobacco, orange, meaty, licorice root flavours. Good finesse and fruit but with a bit of a tart note on the finish.Prices:| QC | $37.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $37.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve 2007
Napa - Sonoma, California, United StatesSmoky, peppery, cedar, chocolate, tobacco, roasted meat, liquorice root, earthy, cassis, and menthol aromas. Ripe, round, supple, elegant palate with light, dry tannins. Cassis, chocolate, vanilla, peppery, black olive, green bean, meat, tobacco, mineral, licorice, earthy, tea flavours. Somewhat tight, austere finish that should soften over the next few years.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $52.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Reserve 2007
California, United StatesMuddy, tobacco leaf, prune, blackberry, riparian, black olive, cedar, leather and five spice aromas. Dry, fresh, elegant but slightly tannic palate. Cedar, earthy, tobacco, black olive, green bean, cassis, spicy, coffee, dried herb and leather flavours. Solid, slightly rustic style to go with grilled meats.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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90PTS
Mud House Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandBig canned asparagus, jalapeno, grapefruit rind, passion fruit aromas with a lemon and nettle streak. Rich, full, creamy, fresh, elegant palate with juicy acidity. Passion fruit, gooseberry, smoky jalapeno, asparagus, lime and melon flavours. Good intensity and balance with a long finish. Delicious example of Kiwi sauvignon.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $22.32 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Robin Ridge Merlot 2007
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery dark colour. Spicy, vanilla, chocolate, cherry jam, peppery, tobacco leaf, rooty, tapenade aromas. Very warm, dry, fresh palate with light tannins and extract. Smoky, peppery, cherry, savoury, meaty, vanilla, sour plum with some cedar and tobacco leaf. The finish is alcoholic and slightly tart but shows potential. Best with rich meat dishes to tame the ending.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pascual Toso Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Las Barrancas Vineyards 2008
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaTobacco, peppery, coffee, chocolate, black berry, saddle leather, iodine, licorice root aromas. Dry, round, full, fresher palate with light tannins. Cassis, chocolate, iodine, floral, spicy, peppery, tobacco, mushroom and earth flavours. Good intensity and expression but needs a year or two to full maturity. Will be good with grilled lamb or beef. Good value and quality.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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01 August 2010
86PTS
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Pinot Blanc 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGooseberry grassy, passion fruit, grapefruit, granny smith aromas. Fresh, crisp, slightly austere style with mineral, pear, chalky, passion fruit, grapefruit flavours.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
De Bortoli DB Traminer Riesling Family Selection 2009
AustraliaGinger, slate, matchstick, nectarine, green apple, floral aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, sweeter entry with melon, ripe apple, floral, peach, spicy flavours. Fun, easy, fresh and juicy style for the patio, picnic or Thai food. Good consumer value.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Albert Mann Gewurztraminer 2008
Alsace, FranceLeesy, nutty, light sulphur, lychee, ginger, green apple skin, slate aromas. Ripe, round, elegant, soft palate with some sweetness. Slightly nutty, leesy, buttery, ginger, citrus, dried lychee, melon flavours. Nice finesse and intensity but could be a bit cleaner.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Pfaff Steinert Pinot Gris Grand Cru 2005
Alsace, FranceLight yellow gold colour. Cooked apple, spicy, plasticene, slightly nutty, citrus rind aromas. Round, full, somewhat fat and sweet palate. Buttery, honey, baked pear and apple with some nutty, citrus aspects. Better acidity on the finish but definitely your heavy, warmer style here.Prices:| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $26.80 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Pierre Sparr Gewürztraminer 2008
Alsace, FranceReborn under screwcap this is a delicious example of gewürztraminer with spicy, lychee, floral, green apple, melon, light sausage and citrus nose. Fresh, juicy, clean, somewhat sweet entry with ripe apple, nectarine skin, buttery, lychee, flora, melon rind flavours. Good fruity, juicy style if a bit on the sweet side. Good value and style. Serve with spicy food.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Rosemount Diamond CellarsTraminer Riesling 2009
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaSlate, light matchstick, petrol, spicy, lemon oil, ginger, red apple and lychee. Ripe, round, juicy, somewhat sweet entry with orange, lime, spicy, honey, light lees, baked apple flavours. Good fruit and juicy if a bit sweet. Finally under Stelvin this has possibilities on Pan Asian wine lists.Prices:| BC | $13.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Finca Flichman Malbec Roble Oaked Aged 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaSpicy, black cherry jam, earthy, tobacco, roasted mushroom, licorice root aromas. Fresh, round, dry, slightly tight palate with peppery, earthy, tobacco, licorice, grilled meat, black cherry, savoury, smoky flavours. Good solid meat wine at a great price.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $9.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
King Estate Pinot Gris Signature Selection 2008
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesSpicy, lime, floral, pear, mandarin peel and green apple aroma. Ripe, full, elegant, fresh, juicy palate with a touch of sweetness and good acidity. Melon, grapefruit, lime, light lees, pear and butter flavours. Good intensity and balance, a fine example.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Ruffino Lumina Pinot Grigio 2008
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyMelon, almond, floral, lemon aromas. Fresh, round, slightly austere palate with good acidity. Juicy pear, green melon, lemon, grapefruit and light buttery lees flavours. Juicy, zippy, elegant finish. Very solid styling for food.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Graffigna Centenario Pinot Grigio Reserve 2009
San Juan, ArgentinaLight spicy, green apple, pear skin, hay, nutty, melon and lemon aromas. Ripe, full, round, elegant and creamy palate. Ripe melon, mango, grapefruit, baked apple and lime flavours. Finish is crisp and juicy with good fruit. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Santa Eco Malbec 2008
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig black cherry, dark plum jam, spicy, peppery, tobacco leaf, earthy aromas with a floral note. Round, supple, slightly tart and sweet palate with juicy cherry, plum fruit with an earthy, licorice, tobacco finish. A more tart, fruity-tutti style but has good intensity for new consumers to malbec.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Le Bombarde Cannonau di Sardegna 2008
Sardinia, ItalyCorked, try anotherPrices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
White Bear Pinot Blanc 2008
CanadaFloral, candied gooseberry, grapefruit rind, apple skin aromas with a touch of matchstick. Round, fresh, delicate palate with a light sweet and sour entry. Similar flavours with a bit of cooked green apple on the finish. Simple, well-made commercial white wine.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
De Angelis Rosso Piceno 2008
Marche, ItalyBig meaty, leather, black cherry jam, licorice root, peppery, barnyard, lifted aromas. Ripe, round, rich, somewhat rustic palate with leather, peppery, barnyard, black olive, black cherry, Band-Aid, meaty, smoky medicinal flavours. Very rustic, full style.Prices:| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cooralook Pinot Gris 2008
Upper Goulburn Valley, Goulburn Valley, Victoria, AustraliaLight lees, spicy, earthy, cooked apple, nutty, pear and citrus aromas. Ripe, round, full, slightly fat entry with a touch of sweetness. Canned grapefruit, ripe pear, baked apple and melon flavours. A full, riper style with good length. Ready to drink.Prices:| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Voga Pinot Grigio 2009
Veneto, ItalyCooked green apple, marzipan, nectarine skin, honey aromas. Round, flat, easy style with light sweetness. Ripe apple, pear, nutty, honey, lemon oil flavours. Simple, easy consumer style.Prices:| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Felino by Viña Cobos Malbec 2008
Mendoza, ArgentinaBlack cherry, spicy, tobacco, earthy, meaty, rooty, poultry spice aromas. Ripe, round, suave and supple palate with good acidity. Chocolate, vanilla, plum jam, black cherry, tobacco, licorice root, waxy, roasted mushroom flavours. Finish is suave, warm and fresh with good fruit. An elegant, ready to drink style with light tannins to age a year or two. Good value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pascual Toso Malbec Reserva Barrancas Vineyards 2008
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaDeep black cherry colour. Aromatic nose with smoky, leather, licorice, black cherry jam, meaty, vanilla, tobacco, savoury nose with a bit of poultry spice. Rich, ripe, round, supple and suave palate. Black cherry jam, licorice, spicy, vanilla, savoury, cedar, tobacco flavours with a plummy, chocolate finish. Great textures and balance for this price. Fine value in a very sexy, glossy red.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Mouton Cadet Blanc 2008
Bordeaux, FranceGrassy, gooseberry, light bell pepper, floral and citrus rind aromas. Round, fresh, easy palate with grassy, grapefruit, mineral, gooseberry, light asparagus flavours. Simple, clean, slightly herbaceous, zippy style.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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September 2010