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Tastings: October 2010
29 October 2010
90PTS
Cervaro della Sala 2008
Umbria, ItalyButter, honey, citrus, floral, waxy, leesy nose with bits of vanilla and baked pear aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy and dry with good elegance and a bit of austerity. Spicy lees, honey, butter, lime, quince, nutty, grapefruit, green apple flavours. Good finesse and length but youthful, needs one or two years to really shine. The blend is 80/20 chardonnay/grechetto.Prices:| BC | $66.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $55.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $53.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Tenuta San Leonardo Dolomiti 2004
Trento, Trentino- Alto-Adige, ItalySimilar in expression to the 2001 but this is tighter and more youthful. Vanilla, cassis, menthol, leather, tobacco leaf, peppery, black olive, cassis, ash, floral, waxy, meaty aromas. Dry, round, supple and fresh with light, tight tannins. Meaty, peppery, spicy, coffee, herbal, red currant, tobacco, olive flavours. A bit warmer and leaner than 2001, this needs 3-7 years to fully come out.Prices:| BC | $98.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $82.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $66.00 | 750ml |
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28 October 2010
94PTS
Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Brut 1998
Champagne, FranceMade from a blend of eight Grand Ccru vineyards the mix is 2/3 pinot noir, 1/3 chardonnay. Light yellow with a refined white mousse. Honey, orange rind, floral, brioche, nutty, creamy, baked pear, cherry, quince aromas. Rich, high acid, concentrated and full but a bit austere and tight. Cherry, strawberry, tobacco, toasty, brioche, chalky, honey, baked apple, quince, floral, pear and creamy flavours. Lots of acidity and structure with some maturity but will continue to improve with 2-7 years aging. Excellent.Prices:| BC | $223.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $250.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $226.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $239.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $246.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $228.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Veuve Clicquot Vintage Reserve 2002
Champagne, FranceThis spends about 6 years before disgorgement and has 60% pinot noir, mostly from Grand Cru sites withsome premier curs. Very fine, continuous mousse. Floral, citrus, green apple, brioche, nutty, pear, guava, peach pit, cherry flavours. Crisp, dryer, tight, full palate with very good acidity and lots of extract.. Green apple, pear, nutty, citrus, floral, toasty, quince, cherry and tobacco flavours. Very good finesse and length, full but delicate. Drink now or keep for 5 years. A year still improving.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $85.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $85.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Veuve Clicquot Rosé NV
Champagne, FranceMade with pinot noir and pinot meunier wine added to give the rose its pale salmon colour and style. Floral, toasty, cherry, tobacco, nutty, citrus, strawberry, baked apple aromas. Fresh, crisp, moderately dry, juicy palate with fine mousse. Cherry, strawberry, spicy, green apple, rhubarb, toasty, nutty, tobacco and citrus flavours. Finish is juicy and a tad on the sweet brut side but has good finesse and length with slightly softer acidity. Good match with lighter foods or salads.Prices:| BC | $87.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $80.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $77.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $82.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $85.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Emiliana Coyam 2007
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileCoyam takes a big step up and embraces the terrific 2007 vintage. The aromatics and nose are the best yet replete with blackberries, savoury red fruits, floral mineral aspects and a dusting of toffee, chocolate and coffee. The palate is rich and smooth. Its dark fruit flavours preview a glossy, slippery texture that slides down effortlessly. Quintessential biodynamic fruit alive with flavours and textures. The biodynamically farmed grapes come off the 150-hectare Los Robles vineyard surrounded by oak trees or Coyam in the native dialect. The latest blend is a 38/17/21/21/2/1/mix of syrah, merlot, carmenère, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot and mourvèdre aged 13 months in 80 per cent French oak, 20 per cent American. a third new. Tannins are still smooth and the carmenere showing more now but still lots of life.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Champagne Veuve Clicquot Brut NV
Champagne, FranceFine mousse. Spicy, nutty, citrus, brioche, baked apple honey aromas. Palate is fine and round if a touch foamy with a nice crisp edge balanced by a bit of brut sweetness, creaminess and fatness. Citrus, nutty, toasty, green apple, cherry, mineral flavours with a touch of grapefruit and orange on the finish. A citrusy style with good intensity. Will improve a bit in bottle. The big toasty N/V brut defines the house style thanks to some 25 to 40 per cent reserve wine in each edition and 50-55% pinot noir and 20% pinot meunier.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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27 October 2010
90PTS
Joseph Drouhin Chambolle Musigny Premier Cru 2007
Côtes de Nuits, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceA blend of five separate parcels. Spicy, floral, sauvage, barnyard, tobacco leaf, menthol, raspberry, rhubarb aromas. Ripe, round, supple, elegant and juicy palate. Raspberry, strawberry, smoky, menthol, tobacco leaf, spicy, compost, orange peel flavours. Very good finesse and fruit but on cool side with a bit of vanilla and smoke on the fresh finish. Needs 2-4 years but an attractive style.Prices:| BC | $82.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Joseph Drouhin Gevrey Chambertin 2007
Gevrey-Chambertin, Côtes de Nuits, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceSpicy, floral, strawberry jam, waxy, sauvage, tobacco leaf, earthy aromas. Ripe, fresh, clean, juicy palate with light tannins and some tartness. Light raspberry, strawberry, mineral, orange, floral, tobacco, currant flavours. A bit tart but has good intensity and fruit. Needs 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $58.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 2008
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceFrom two parcels, 50 and 75 year old sections. No new wood is used. Ripe floral, waxy, honey, lees, guava, seashell, spicy, grassy, green apple aromas. Ripe, full, dry, elegant and juicy with fresh, succulent flavours. Honey, vanilla, lime, peach pit, butter, green apple, spicy lees, floral, lanolin flavours. Long, rich, intense with lovely mouthfeel. Balanced with finesse but less robust than Vaudésir. Hold two to five years. The site has been organic since 1990 and biodynamic since 1999.Prices:| BC | $76.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Grand Cru Vaudésir 2008
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceFrom 65-year old vines grown in an amphitheatre-like setting. Spicy, floral, honey, guava, vanilla, seashell, oyster, lime, green apple, light lees aromas. Rich, ripe, full, juicy fresh palate but bigger and somewhat more austere at this stage. Vanilla, lees, waxy, spicy, honey, baked green apple, lime, oyster shell, seaweed, floral flavours. Long with fine concentration and intensity and plenty of acidity. Seems more forward but also more powerful, one to age 3-7 years. Good value here. The site has been organic since 1990 and biodynamic since 1999.Beginning with the 2008 vintage the name "Vaudon" will be associated with Joseph Drouhin for all its Chablis denoting Drouhin's historical link to the Moulin de Vaudon, the property of Joseph Drouhin and home to the Grand Cru vineyards in the heart of their 38 hectare estate.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Premier Cru Montmains 2009
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceDelicate seashell, guava, floral nose with green apple, lime, honey, nectarine skin aromas. Ripe, full, fresh palate with juicy acidity and a touch of oiliness. Seashell, lime, green apple, floral, light honey, lees, guava, quince flavours. Full, long, good concentration and acidity with a touch of salt and seashore in the finish. Well done. The vineyard has been farmed organically since 1990 and bio-dynamic since 1999.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Premier Cru Secher 2009
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceFrom 75 year old vines, normally part of Vaillons or Les Lys. Lime, floral, seashell, lemon, lees, grassy, pear aromas. Ripe, round, elegant, dry, slightly austere palate with good acidity. Juicy, crisp, slightly oily palate with light lees, honey, guava, lime, lemon, seashell, mineral, green apple flavours. Good length and finesse, needs 1-3 years aging.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Premier Cru 2009
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceA blend of several domain vineyards on the right side of the river. Floral, spicy, honey, lemon, green apple, light lees, oyster shell aromas. Dry, full, round, creamy but juicy palate. Green apple, honey, pear, lees, seashell, seaweed, mineral, spicy garlic flavours. Good intensity, finesse and acidity. Needs 1-2 years but can drink now. Despite being a very ripe vintage, there is lots of acidity.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Drouhin Vaudon Chablis Reserve de Vaudon 2008
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceThe style here is to be fruity, elegant and delicate with low oak and fresh acidity. Lemon, seashell, floral, lime, green apple aromas. Dry, fresh, crisp, zippy, juicy palate. Green apple, lime, lees, oyster, lemon, spicy, green nectarine flavours. Good intensity but quite tart now. Best with light seafood dishes or keep for a year or so.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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26 October 2010
93PTS
Ca' du Rabajà Barbaresco Rabajà 2007
Piedmont, ItalyDrinkable is not a word I associate with young Barbaresco and never with any sourced from the famous vigneto Rabajà but it is the story of Renzo Alutto's wines. Balance, minerality, fruit and well managed tannins stick out like a sore thumb as does the absence of Brettanomyces. A simply delicious, round, ready-to-explore Barbaresco with a range of spiced red fruits flecked with citrus and even bits of mocha. Alutto says it will go the distance through 2025 but really, you can savour the odd bottle now with piece of Reggiano. Great value.Prices:| BC | $79.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $68.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $60.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $62.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Ca' du Rabajà Barbera D'Alba Bricco di Nessuno 2008
Piedmont, ItalyRenzo Alutto got a lot of great advice from Dante Scaglione, long-time cellar-master for Bruno Giacosa including making the decision to stick to traditional Langhe winemaking. Long macerations and aging in large wooden barrels or botti has given this pure fruited barbera real life and vitality. Alutto says Barbera "is so diffused," about the Piedmont region that it has no real pedigree, hence the clever label moniker Bricco di Nessuno ("top of nothing") that describe this three vineyard blend made from 30 to 80 year old vines. You will love the fresh red fruit aromas and red liquorice, black pepper and juniper notes. Again, so delicious for the price. Pair this with porcini risotto or polenta Cinghiale. All winemaking is traditional and terroir based using time-honoured fermentations with the native yeasts, and long aging in large, neutral barrel. What is modern is the cleanliness of every wine. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $21.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Ca' du Rabajà Dolcetto D'Alba 2009
Piedmont, ItalyLorenzo Alutto employs "natural" viticulture whenever possible eschewing the use of chemicals. All winemaking is traditional and terroir based using time-honoured fermentation techniques with the native yeasts, and long aging in large neutral barrels. Despite all that his wines are super clean and fresh. This soft-ish Dolcetto, just under 14 per cent alcohol, will charm you with its nose of almonds and anise and flavours of black cherries and blueberries with an undercurrent of savoury wild fennel. Elegance balance and minerality at a great price.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.50 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ca' du Rabajà Arneis Meriggiare 2009
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyNo amount of writing will likely help to sell the grape arneis. That said my advice is buy the Ca' du Rabajà because it is delicious and it is suited to West Coast cuisine. Hints of crab-apple, melon and white flowers all flecked with apricot and surprising freshness make it a delicious alternative to sauvignon, viognier or grüner. Historically arneis was used as softening agent for nebbiolo, though today is appears mostly as a solo Piedmont varietal wine. Lorenzo Alutto employs "natural" viticulture whenever possible eschewing the use of chemicals. All winemaking is traditional and terroir based using time-honoured fermentation techniques with the native yeasts, and long aging in large neutral barrels. What is modern is the cleanliness of every wine. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.25 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Codorníu Reserva Raventos Brut NV
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainIf you are a fan of Cava you will love the Codorníu Reserva Raventos Brut a chardonnay,xarel-lo, macabeo blend from Penedès. The nose is aromatic with honey and spiced apple notes and a customary nutty undercurrent. We love the refined mousse character in the mouth not normally present at this price level and all the floral mineral, citrus, buttery, melon, peach flavours. A super sparkler with amazing versatility. Serve solo, with appetizers or during and after the meal. Great value too. Load up.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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24 October 2010
89PTS
Quinta Vale D. Maria Douro Vinho Tinto 2007
Rio Torto, Cima Corga, Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalTobacco, cedar, meaty, plum, black cherry, vanilla, coffee, liquorice root, barnyard, saddle leather aromas. Round, full, dry, fresh palate with light tannins. Coffee, peppery, black tea, liquorice and smoky, vanilla, black cherry, dried fig, resin flavours. Warm and somewhat oaky at this youthful stage it will need a few years to integrate. As always, well made and tasty but the new price is tough to swallow.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sileni Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandAsparagus, jalapeno, bell pepper, gooseberry, mineral aromas. Fresh, tart, juicy palate with asparagus, bell pepper, smoky, grassy, lemon nettle flavours. Quite herbaceous, bracing style.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2005
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalVery spicy, tobacco, pepper, floral, orange rind, raisin, plum jam, molasses, black tea aromas. Round, full, warm but juicier acidity palate with good sweetness. Orange, plum, black cherry, molasses, dried fig, tobacco, pepper, rooty flavours with a bit of a minty, spirity finish. Good intensity. Drink all winter.Prices:| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Orobio Rioja Tempranillo 2008
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainFloral, meaty, smoky, leather, cherry jam, coffee, vanilla, sausage, black olive aromas. Dry, tight, elegant palate with fresh acidity. Cherry, coffee, meaty, earthy, peppery, mineral, rooty, tobacco flavours. A classic ready to drink tempranillo you can serve with lamb chops. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Quinta do Alqueve 2 Worlds Reserva 2004
Tejo, Central and Southern Portugal, PortugalHuge barnyard, tobacco, earthy, pruny, meaty, bretty, sweaty saddle leather aromas. Dry, tart, thin palate with similar flavours and a rustic, astringent finish with a bunch of old oak. Too much of that meaty bretty character in the finish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2004
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalVery peppery, liquorice root, black cherry jam, black tea, fig, spicy, soy, slightly raisined nose. Round, full, slightly tannic palate but elegant in a somewhat drier, fresher style. Liquorice, smoky, peppery, dried cherry, nutty, pruny flavours. Bottled in 2009, this is ready to consume but will hold.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Fonseca Guimaraens Vintage Port 2005
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalPeppery, tobacco, black tea, menthol, dried herb, black cherry jam, and dark chocolate aromas with a touch of spirit. Full, round, moderately sweet palate but good acidity with youthful tannins. Lots of licorice, black cherry jam, dried fig, orange, smoky, earthy, black tea, peppery flavours. Good finesse and length, needs 7-10 years to develop.Prices:| BC | $64.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Noval Vintage Port 2008
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalDeep black cherry colour. Very peppery, spicy, floral, liquorice root, ash, black tea, plum jam aromas with a sausage meat note. Rich, full, warm, somewhat tannic palate with a spirity note. Smoky, peppery, meaty, dried fig, cherry jam, earthy, tobacco, liquorice root, stewed black tea flavours. Good weight and tannins but a bit less mid-palate concentration. Cellar through 2015.Prices:| BC | $135.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $115.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cortello Vinho Tinto 2007
Lisboa, Central and Southern Portugal, PortugalBig sausage, black pepper, tobacco leaf, cassis, meaty aromas. Soft, round, dry palate with fresh acidity. Meaty, sausage, peppery, smoky, olive, tobacco and plum flavours. Simple barbecue red for any grilled meat entrée.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rollingdale Pinot Gris Icewine 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight gold colour. Slightly mature nose with honey, butter, citrus, baked pear, plasticene aromas. Rich, round, elegant but slightly fat and sweet palate. Baked pear, waxy, honey, nutty, candied citrus, butterscotch and apricot flavours. A bit unusual but has good fruit and intensity for more near-term consumption. Sumptuous styling.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 200ml |
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80PTS
Seven Stones Speaking Rock Chardonnay 2008
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaButtery, leesy, roasted garlic, matchstick, vanilla, nutty aromas. Dry, flat, thin palate with very leesy, garlic, lemon oil, nutty, flavours with a bitter finish. Something is off base here.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Dunham Froese Amicitia White 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresher cleaner nose this year with floral, honey, lychee, grapefruit, nettle aromas. Round, full, slightly oily palate with a nutty, lees, honey, baked pear, grapefruit, buttery flavours. Still a bit heavy and leesy on the palate but over all a solid effort.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Fish Eye Chardonnay 2008
California, United StatesCandied citrus, floral cologne, baked apple, bruised peach aromas. Round, slightly sweet entry but crisp with soapy, floral, candied orange rind, buttery, artificial flavours. Very contrived, commercial chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $11.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Obikwa Chardonnay 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaPeach, honey, butter, slightly smoky nose. Fresh, crisp, juicy palate with grapefruit rind, butter, baked peach and apple skin flavours. Simple, easy, rind-y style white with a touch of bitterness. Inexpensive.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Bonitas Pinot Gris 2008
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNutty, slightly oxidative nose with some citrus aromas. Tart, fresh, zippy palate with lots of citrus, baked apple peel, bruised apple, nutty flavours. Unfortunately marred by the oxidation upfront. Could be a cork problem.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Flor de Crasto Douro Vinho Tinto 2008
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalSmoky, earthy, peppery, meaty, liquorice root nose with flecks of plum and tobacco. Clean, fresh, dry palate with some grip-py tannins and plenty of floral, smoky, resin, dark plum, tobacco, earthy, leather, savoury meat flavours. A dry id a bit rustic red for pizza and meat. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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23 October 2010
89PTS
Telmo Rodriguez Basa Rueda Blanco 2009
Rueda, Castilla-Leon, SpainWhat a delicious bottle of white wine. Floral, passion fruit, grapefruit, melon, lime, lees, slate and jalapeno aromas attract you to its fresh, crisp, juicy palate and creamy textures. Grapefruit, mineral, gooseberry, passion fruit, melon rind and green apple flavours with a smoky jalapeno finish. Good juicy style with some finesse. Delicious for current drinking. Finally an up-to-date vintage release and now, wait for it ...under screwcap. Restaurants load up.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Barros Colheita Porto 1996
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalBrick walnut colour. Spicy, cedar, tobacco, black licorice, tea, rancio, dried fig aromas. Elegant, juicy palate with moderate sweetness and good acidity. Coffee, licorice, black tea, walnut, mineral, earthy, rancio, cedar, dried cherry flavours. Good intensity and finesse with some light tannins on the finish. Very long nutty finish.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 375ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 375ml |
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90PTS
Williams & Humbert Don Guido Pedro Ximenez Solera Especial NV
Sherry Jerez - Manzanilla, SpainAged 20 years in oak barrels. Dark brick black cherry amber colour. Very spicy, walnut, floral, tobacco, cedar, soy, raisin, rancio aromas. Rich, ripe, round, full, unctuous palate but no overly heavy but sweet with good acidity. Huge raisiny, buttery, walnut, coffee, toffee, chestnut, soy, cedar, tobacco, orange peel flavours. Fun and complex for dessert with cheese or pecan pie.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 375ml |
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86PTS
Olivares Altos de la Hoya Finca Hoya de Santa Ana 2007
Jumilla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainPeppery, earthy, tobacco, black cherry, rooty, chocolate, resin aromas. Soft, round, fresh palate with chocolate, earthy, rooty, meaty, peppery, resin and black cherry flavours. Finish is simple and a bit tart but solid.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
B Barahonda Tinto Barrica 2007
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainVery spicy, peppery, tobacco, black olive, cherry jam, earthy aromas. Round, dry, fresh, warm palate with smoky, black olive, rooty, meaty, cherry, peppery, tobacco flavours with smoky, leather finish. Warm and fresh, ready to drink style.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Montecillo Reserva 2005
Rioja, SpainSmoky, meaty, chocolate, barnyard, cedar, tobacco leaf, vanilla, cherry and leather aromas. Dry, round, slightly lean palate with light tannins and fresh acidity. Vanilla, oaky, leather, coffee, peppery, rooty, leather, meaty, barnyard, cherry and olive flavours. An oaky, slightly austere style that will show best with beef dishes. Drink now- 2 years.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.60 | 750ml |
| NF | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Castaño Monastrell 2008
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainSomewhat reduced nose with liquorice root, peppery, meaty, floral, black olive, leather aromas. Round, full, fresh, slightly tannic palate with black cherry, peppery, floral, meaty, tobacco, rooty, smoky flavours. A bit rustic but decent intensity and balance for the money. As always, good solid value.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Castaño Hécula 2006
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainAnother interesting meaty, floral, chocolate, peppery nose with earthy, tobacco, plum and smoke undertones. Ripe, round, fresh, slightly tannic palate. Tobacco, peppery, smoky, meaty, chocolate, black cherry, liquorice root. A touch rustic on the finish but has good concentration and represents solid value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $17.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Castaño Colección Cepas Viejas 2007
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainElegant, floral, spicy, light menthol, meaty nose with chocolate, cassis, cherry and tobacco aromas. Round, dry, supple, slightly grainy palate but well balanced. Smoky, vanilla, cedar, tobacco, peppery, chocolate, blackberry, liquorice root, menthol, black olive and resin flavours with a touch of grilled meat and barnyard. Good concentration, drink now-5 years.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Torres Salmos Priorat 2007
Priorato, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainExpect a fragrant smoky, plum/liquorice nose with bits of pepper, blackberry jam and vanilla aromas. Rich, dry, warm, fresh palate with light tannin and smoky, orange, floral prune, blackberry fruit and coffee, tobacco, garrigue and liquorice flavours. It finishes very warm with a touch of barnyard. Good solid concentration and length. Try this with grilled lamb.Prices:| BC | $39.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $39.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $34.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Torres Celeste 2006
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainBig peppery, barnyard, saddle leather, coffee nose with rich flecks of vanilla, black cherry jam, cedar, and chocolate/meaty aromas. Rich, round, warm, fresh enticing palate with supple tannins and smoky, spicy, chocolate, orange, prune plum, vanilla, liquorice flavours. A bit youthful and even rustic but with lots of flavours and concentration. Cellar two to five years for best results. Prices:| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.85 | 750ml |
| MB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $26.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Formiga de Vellut (Organic) 2008
Priorato, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainAll hail Priorat and this spicy, floral, curry, black peppery, liquorice scented red. Love the dry, supple palate and its smoky, peppery, black cherry jam and meaty, licorice and cedar flavours. Good intensity and balance throughout despite a bit of heat on the finish. Fine effort for current drinking with lamb stew. Solid value and best of all the grapes are grown organically.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Torres Mas La Plana 2006
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainOpen peppery, cedar, tobacco nose with smoky, cassis, cranberry, black olive and saddle leather aromas. The palate is dry and supple with smooth, small-grained tannins and more peppery, tobacco, meaty, coffee, vanilla, black olive, coriander seed, mineral, black liquorice and cedar flavours. Fine concentration and intensity but needs another 3-5 years yet to fully develop.Prices:| BC | $64.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Eternum Viti 2007
Toro, Castilla-Leon, SpainI'm not sure eternal life is in the cards for this wine whose big barnyard, pruny, coffee, meaty, bretty notes will appeal to some and put others off. The entry is dry and round with cooked carrot, cherry jam smoky, meaty, barnyard fruit with flecks of prunes and coffee. Rich rustic reds for roasted meats and winter stews.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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22 October 2010
91PTS
Descendientes de J. Palacios Pétalos 2007
Bierzo, Castilla-Leon, SpainAlvaro Palacios is the man behind this delicious Bierzo red made from 100 per cent mencia. Rich and swimming in dense black blueberry-like fruit it has a wonderful underbelly of minerality and a strong aromatic floral character. The grapes are grown employing biodynamic viticulture. An exotic riveting red with bits of violets spice incense. A modern wine from old vines and even older methods.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $28.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Township 7 7 Blanc 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada7 - Blanc is an aromatic blend of Naramata pinot gris, gewürztraminer and a bit of muscat. Look for an off-dry palate mixing grapefruit, honey mango and red apple notes with bits of cherries and spice. Classic style summer sipper that will pair with a variety of foods.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ogier Crozes-Hermitage Les Brunnelles Rouge 2007
Crozes Hermitage, Northern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceVery peppery, garrigue, liquorice root, tobacco, grilled meat, smoky, black cherry aromas. Round, dry, fresh, elegant palate with light, soft tannins. Black cherry, plum, rooty, liquorice, meaty, black pepper, garrigue, menthol flavours. Good finesse and length for near term consumption. DeliciousPrices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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20 October 2010
87PTS
Ochoa Rosado de Lágrima Single Vineyard 2009
Navarra and Basque Country, SpainThe small region of Navarra just a bit northeast of Rioja is home to the Ochoa Rosado. The mix is garnacha and cabernet sauvignon run off the skins early to offer the perfect pale red orange colour and a delicious juicy, citrus, fruit flavoured pink with just a twist of spice and black cherries in the finish. Slightly more robust and alcoholic suggesting it will stand up to bigger dishes.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Navarro López Pergolas Old Vines Tempranillo 2006
Valdepeñas, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainPeppery, black olive, black cherry nose with hints of black liquorice and floral, vanilla aromas. The palate is dry and elegant with a dusting of tannins and more smoky black cherry, liquorice flavours flecked with orange, mineral and tobacco notes. Soft easy sipping style red for pizza, ribs or meat. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Lustau Sherry Solera Reserva Dry Oloroso Don Nuño NV
Sherry Jerez - Manzanilla, SpainThe Don Nuño is a rich concentrated Sherry that is classically dry but with hints of sweetness. Unlike most commercial Oloroso it isn't sweetened with Pedro Ximénez. It is aged a dozen years in America oak using the classic solera system all of which develops rich stone fruit flavours flecked with walnuts and citrus underneath. The finish is long. Serve by the fireside or try it with roast chicken.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 375ml |
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17 October 2010
85PTS
Marcel Lapierre Morgon 2009
Morgon, Beaujolais Villages, Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceSmoky, leather, meaty, Band-Aid/Brett notes, black cherry, earthy, rooty aromas. Dry, elegant but lean and slightly tart with floral, meaty, Oxo, leather, smoked tomato, peppery, resin and black cherry flavours. Lacks ripeness and purity. Disappointing given all the hype surrounding the vintage.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Josef Drathen Bereich Bernkastel Riesling QBA 2008
Mosel, GermanySlate, citrus, earthy, green apple, matchstick aromas. Fresh, juicy, slightly sweet style with guava, honey, baked apple, slate, earthy flavours. Would be much better under Stelvin to preserve the fruit.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Piesporter Treppchen Riesling QbA 2008
Mosel, GermanySpicy, floral, baked apple, minty, citrus and sawdust aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy, elegant palate with slate, big spice granny smith apple, petrol, citrus flavours. Good intensity and sugar-acid balance but suffers a bit from a cork closure. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Domaine de la Sarazinière Mâcon Bussières 2008
Mâconnais, Burgundy, FranceMeaty, spicy, resin, smoky, tobacco, lees, black olive, cherry flavours. Dry, light, slightly tart palate with cherry, herbal, tobacco, mineral, green flavours. Very tart and dry, lacks ripeness and fruit. Needs food.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Herrenweg de Turckheim 2007
Alsace, FranceToasty, nutty, butter baked green apple, waxy, citrus, honey, slate aromas. Ripe, rich, full palate, juicy palate with fine texture and finesse. Honey, lanolin, nutty, spicy, lemon, baked green apple, baked pear, slate, light petrol flavours. Complex lengthy finish. Pricey but worth it.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Road 13 Jackpot Riesling 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery floral, green apple skin, slate, orange, diesel aromas. Dry, tight, lean palate but light extract and a bit warm. Bitter grapefruit, slate, light petrol, rindy, green apple skin flavours with a strong rose oil finish. Lacks balance.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Devil's Rock Pfalz Riesling 2009
Pfalz, GermanyFloral, almond, citrus, baked green apple, matchstick aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy palate with green apple, lime, slate, orange flavours. Good fruit and intensity if a bit rindy and just off-dry. Great value.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Pierre Sparr Alsace One 2009
Alsace, FranceFloral, rose petal, spicy, red apple, peach, baked pear aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy, off dry palate with mineral, spicy, ginger, rose, pear, green apple flavours. A bit flat on the finish but has enough intensity for Indian or Thai food or scallops. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $17.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pierre Sparr Extrem Riesling 2009
Alsace, FranceFloral, fresh apple, pear, honey, spicy, citrus, light waxy aromas. Dry, elegant, fresh palate with good finesse and acidity. Slate, petrol, baked apple skin, honey, citrus, guava flavours. Good intensity and length and good value. Love the new package plus screwcap. This is a winning combo for Sparr and Alsace.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wild Goose Riesling God's Mountain Vineyard 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMarzipan, lemon oil, green apple skin, petrol, bruised apple aromas. Dry, slightly flat, round palate with moderate acidity. Floral, citrus, green apple, lemon, leesy, waxy flavours. Very hot finish and lacks it's the bright fruit we normally see from wild Goose. This needs a screwcap to eliminate any cork problems. Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rodney Strong Pinot Noir Reserve 2008
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe RS Reserve is a blend of individually farmed lots from across the Russian River Valley. Each is vinified separately and then barrel selected for the Reserve. Cluster and berry sorting precede a cold soak regime. Look for a supple, rich voluptuous style pinot with layers of red cherry, raspberry and strawberry fruit with a spicy sweet vanilla underbelly. The tannins are light. The finish is long with black cherry, strawberry and toasted vanilla notes. It's a touch warm but well balanced. The blend is a mix of clones 115, 777 with a bit of 114. A delicious rich, California-style pinot.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Vins Julien Schaal Riesling 2007
Alsace, FranceSlate, lanolin, light petrol, baked pear, honey, light butter aromas. Dry, fresh, crisp, elegant palate but slightly mature. Honey, beeswax, mineral, green apple, pear, floral, peach pit flavours. Long, refined, dry finish. Very well balanced for food or alone. Try this with pork.Prices:| BC | $24.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery Larch Tree Hill Riesling 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGinger, floral, light petrol, green apple, slate aromas. Off dry, fresh, easy palate with slate, honey, baked apple, ginger, floral flavours. Simple, easy style to go with Thai food or fish. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Rudolf Muller Riesling Chardonnay 2008
Pfalz, GermanyPeach, cream, green apple, citrus, slightly floral nose. Fresh, crisp, off dry palate but light bodied. Mineral, green apple, light petrol, spicy, pear skin flavours. Simple, fresh style with a juicy finish.Prices:| BC | $12.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Nederburg Riesling The Winemaster Reserve 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaPetrol, marzipan, mineral, buttery, baked pear, earthy, slate aromas. Fresh, crisp, moderately dry palate in a leaner style. Lemon, slate, petrol, slightly smoky, green apple skin flavours. A lean style, a la Clare Valley that will go with food. Uses a Diam cork but why not just go to screwcap and keep it super fresh. Good value.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Silkscarf Riesling Muscat 2009
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, floral, ginger, light sausage aromas. Fresh, juicy, somewhat sweet palate with ripe apple, honey, mineral, ginger, citrus rind flavours. A fresh, easy sipping white you can serve solo or pair up with Pan Asian food.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Big House Red 2008
California, United StatesIncense, coffee bean, vanilla, floral, chocolate, cologne aromas. Soft, round, fresh, slightly tannic palate with cherry, floral, chocolate, tobacco leaf, green tea flavours. Simple, easy sipping commercial red. A west coast Yellow Tail.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Aces Seven Deuce Red Wine 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCoffee, chocolate, meaty, tobacco leaf, cedar, peppery, slightly volatile aromas with a bit of cherry. Tart, dry, lean palate with cedar-y tannins. Chocolate cherry, peppery, cedar, rooty, smoked herb, oaky flavours. Warm and somewhat unbalanced style.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinotage 2008
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, smoked meat, roasted tomatoes, damp, tobacco leaf aromas. Dry, warm, slightly tart and tannic entry with chalky, mocha, chocolate, herbal, tobacco leaf, black olive, smoked leather flavours. Lots of oak with an herbal, sour cherry finish.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
2nd Crossing Long Creek Red 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSausage meat, peppery, tobacco, resin, smoky, sweaty saddle nose. Round, fresh, supple palate with spicy, meaty, peppery, coffee, savoury, cherry jam, vanilla and chocolate flavours. A bit tart and oaky on the finish but with some bright fruit streaks. Give this another year or two in bottle or serve it now with grilled meat to best effect.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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13 October 2010
86PTS
Rigamarole Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGrapefruit, nettle, light lees, melon, matchstick, canned fruit aromas. Crisp, fresh, slightly sweet. Tart, light palate. Grapefruit rind, melon, candied apple, gooseberry, tart apple, vanilla lees flavours. Solid effort if a bit candied and tart.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Rigamarole Red 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig black pepper, floral, cherry, tobacco leaf, meaty, leather, rooty nose. Dry, slightly hard, thin palate. Spicy, currant, cranberry, herbal, leafy flavours. Simple red blend.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Chono Rose Syrah 2009
Valle del Elqui, ChilePale colour, fresh citrus notes on the nose and palate. The entry is dry and pleasantly tart. Simple fresh excellent food style rose that reminds me of the south of France. Think of this with cold chicken and other picnic style foods and salads. Made with organic fruit.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Casa Real 2005
Buin, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileLast but not least is the Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Casa Real 2005, perhaps the best I have ever tasted. Made with 40-plus year old fruit the Casa Real entices you with its sublime nose of mint, cassis and spicy liquorice all supporting pure plum fruit. The textures are sublime, so supple, so balanced and zero green. Nothing but rich dense fruit in a sophisticated cabernet sauvignon. The best since 1999 and perhaps already better than that fine bottle.Prices:| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
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12 October 2010
87PTS
Caliterra Bio Sur Carmenere 2009
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileClassic carmenère with a richly spiced nose of cinnamon and cloves with bright red fruit. The entry is dry and fruity with black cherry fruit and medium structured tannins. It was a fabulous vintage to boot. Bio-Sur is made using organic grapes. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nativa Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig intense, smoky, Maipo bay leaf, black olive and blackberry, menthol aromas. The palate reflects the nose with classic Maipo mint and resin and a strong savoury, sappy, cassis undercurrent. Again a bit Bordeaux in nature. Dry firm back end. Very regional and no doubt focussed by organics.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
De Martino Cabernet - Malbec 2008
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileDry fragrant, earthy young fruity nose. The entry is similar earthy with cassis tobacco and bits of chocolate. Solid if unspectacular red that would be fine with most grilled meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Organics Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe nose offers sweet fruit notes of flecked with vanilla and sweet spices. The palate is a mix of red and black fruits, black liquorice and soft, chalky tannins. The finish is dry and earthy with an herbal fruit and cedar/balsam undercurrent.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Emiliana Adobe Chardonnay Reserva Orgánico 2010
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileSomewhat sauvignon-like on the nose with floral grapefruit, green apple skin notes. The entry is thin and crisp with bits of butter, peach skin, green apple, grassy, melon flavours. A simple style best with creamy seafood and pasta dishes. Made from organic fruit.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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11 October 2010
88PTS
J Vineyards Pinot Gris 2009
California, United StatesFloral, pear, green apple, light lees, peach pit aromas on the nose and a ripe round full palate with a fresh character and a touch California of sweetness. Ripe apple, pear, honey, spicy, lime, grapefruit, creamy flavours. Very fine fruit with intensity and length. A blend of Monterrey, Clarksburg, Alexander Valley and Russian River fruit.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Fort Berens Chardonnay 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBready, leesy, grassy, honey, waxy, vanilla, smoky aromas. Round, slightly flat palate but some concentration. Very waxy, lees, vanilla, honey, butter, baked apple, muscat flavours. Very oaky, smoky bacon, sweet, warm finish. Oak needs to be scaled back to allow the fruit to really shine. A good start.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
J Vineyards Chardonnay 2007
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, floral, pear, nutty, baked apple, citrus, butter, light garlic spice aromas. Ripe, round, full, fresh palate with a hint of sweetness and good acidity. Spicy lees, butterscotch, nutty, honey, baked apple, pear, lime, toasty vanilla flavours. A bit warm on the finish but very good complexity, like a Meursault that is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $44.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
J Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, dill, tobacco leaf, soy, rooty, rhubarb, smoky, raspberry, green herb aromas. Dry, round, supple and elegant palate with good acidity. Smoky, herbal, celery, dill, clove, cinnamon, vanilla, flavours with a cherry, black raspberry and green leaf finish. Very good finesse and delicacy in a cool style pinot.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
J Vineyards Brut Rosé NV NV
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesPale salmon-orange colour. Fine continuous white mousse. Strawberry, tobacco, honey, nutty, baked apple, cherry, almond and citrus peel aromas. Round, full, juicy palate with fine mousse. Spicy, tobacco, strawberry, rhubarb, nutty, garlic, honey, citrus flavours. More leesy, toasty style than the 20 Brut but has good finesse and fruit. It is also gets six additional months of aging prior to release.Prices:| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
J Vineyards Cuvée 20 Brut NV NV
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesFine continuous mousse. Nutty, brioche baked green apple, honey, floral, pear aromas. Fresh, crisp, slightly sweet Brut style with good fine mousse and juicy acidity. Cherry, nutty, floral, citrus, green apple, honey and tobacco flavours. Good finesse and fruit, fine value. The blend is 49/49/2 chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meunier.Prices:| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Malbec Phantom Creek Vineyard 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig leafy, peppery, herbal, tobacco, savoury dill, clove, liquorice aromas. The palate is round, dry and supple giving this red an easy-drinking style. The flavours mix pepper, dill, tobacco, savoury, mushroom, rooty, cherry flavours. Very malbec if a bit on the greener side. There is good potential though. The mix includes 11 per cent petit verdot.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Road 13 Viognier Riesling Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, floral, ginger, bubble gum, grassy, grapefruit aromas. The palate is fresh, crisp, juicy and a bit oily with some sweetness. Peach, honey, passion fruit, orange, gooseberry and guava flavours. A bit sweet on the finish but has great fruit for a fun drink. Another Pan Asian food-friendly wine. Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Camelot Vineyards Riesling 2009
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGreen apple, nectarine, matchstick, lime, floral aromas. Crisp, delicate, light palate that is slightly sweet a la Kabinett style. Lime, green apple, petrol, nectarine flavours. Solid crisp, delicate style riesling you can easily serve with your favourite Chinese food dishes.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Sandhill Sauvignon Blanc Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGood nose with pink grapefruit, nettle, passion fruit, leesy, vanilla aromas. Palate is dry, light and somewhat austere with low concentration. Passion fruit, lees, herbal, lemon, bell pepper flavours. Has some finesse but finishes too bitter and tart.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Syrah Phantom Creek Vineyard 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, weedy, plum, spicy, smoky, herbal, meaty, coffee, tobacco aromas. Round, full, soft and supple with a warm edge. Smoky, plum, cherry, riparian, vanilla, tobacco, cherry, savoury herbal flavours with a pruny edge. Good textures and concentration that finishes warm. Bring on the roast lamb.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Viognier Osprey Vineyard 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRipe mango, pineapple, honey, ginger, lychee aromas. Palate is hot, thin and low in acidity and concentration. Honey, pineapple, tropical, buttery, ginger flavours. Just too alcoholic and flat. Not up to prior editions.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Black Hills Viognier 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGinger, grapefruit rind, sweaty, honey, floral aromas. Round, oily, somewhat sweet and sour palate. Grapefruit rind and more sweaty lees, butter and bitter nettle flavours. Neither varietal nor balanced this wine has missed the mark this year.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Mission Hill Sauvignon Blanc Five Vineyards 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, grapefruit, green apple nose with grassy, lemon nettle aromas. Round, slightly sweet, flat palate with cooked green apple, grapefruit, herbal, nettle, lemon flavours. Solid, simple style sauvignon you can serve with a variety of seafood and pasta.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Garry Oaks Pinot Gris Salt Spring Island 2009
Buttery, waxy, vanilla, nutty lees, peach and honey aromas. Dry, tight, slightly acidic palate. Grapefruit rind, grassy, green apple, buttery flavours. Finish is quite rind-y and bitter but fresh. Try this with mussels.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Mistaken Identity Merlot 2008
Meaty peppery, lifted, rooty, herbal, tobacco leaf nose with bits of cherry. Dry, lean, chunky entry with a slightly hollow palate and a bit of volatility. Tobacco, resiny, earthy, compost, sour cherry flavours. Finish is warm and oaky. Bets with grilled meat entrées. Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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10 October 2010
89PTS
Falernia Syrah Reserva 2007
Valle del Elqui, ChileMeaty, garrigues, blackberry, black cherry, smoky, rooty, peppery aromas. Rich, ripe, full and supple palate. Juicy blackberry, peppery, meaty, licorice, garrigues, floral, sage flavours. Very good concentration and intensity in a cooler climate style. Fine value.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
De Martino Legado Reserva Syrah 2008
Choapa Valley, Coquimbo Region, ChileSpicy, floral, black cherry, rosemary, savoury, meaty, savoury aromas. Round, rich, dry, juicy and supple palate. Black cherry, plum, rooty, coffee, liquorice, garrigue, smoky flavours. Good fruit and concentration. Love the value here. Serve with ribs or lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Emiliana Novas Winemaker's Selection Syrah 2007
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileBlackberry, tobacco leaf, earthy, vanilla, meaty, smoky, leather, peppery, iodine aromas. Round, dry, supple palate that is fresh and warm. Spicy, coffee, blackberry, black cherry, smoky, dried herbs, peppery, rooty, licorice, meaty flavours. Good intensity and balance of fruit if a bit hot on the finish.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBack to a cooler leafy, tobacco, rhubarb nose with , carrot top, earthy, celery salt aromas. Dry, elegant, supple but tart with light, green tannins. Rhubarb, herbal, celery, coffee, rooty, minty, tobacco leaf flavours. Elegant but very cool and leafy style with light extract and a tart finish. Needs more fruit.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Felton Road Pinot Noir 2008
Central Otago, South Island, New ZealandRooty, gamey, strawberry jam, floral, thyme, compost, rhubarb aromas. Dry, elegant, supple, very fresh palate. Celery salt, earthy, rooty, rhubarb, strawberry, orange peel, tobacco leaf, thyme, herbal flavours. Simple but elegant with solid fruit.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $74.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir 2008
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesFloral, clove, incense, cinnamon, potpourri, celery salt, strawberry, vanilla, chocolate aromas. Round, soft, fresh palate. Sweet vanilla, coffee, prune, strawberry jam, celery salt, tobacco leaf, cedar, dried herb, gamey, menthol flavours. Finish is a bit oaky with light tannins to shed.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $52.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Meyer Family Vineyards Pinot Noir McLean Creek Road Vineyard 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMeaty, gamey, cherry jam, celery, prune, compost, vanilla, coffee aromas. Dry, tight, slightly sour but elegant palate. Rhubarb, sour cherry, herbal, incense, coffee, tobacco leaf, vanilla flavours. A bit oaky but solid fruit core.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tantalus Pinot Noir 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, clove, maraschino, strawberry, tobacco leaf, smoky, orange, compost, herbal aromas. Dry, round, elegant, slightly lean but juicy palate. Herbal, raspberry, smoky, coffee, vanilla, tobacco, savoury, compost flavours. A bit tart but good finesse and cool fruit for near term consumption. Solid effort. Diem cork.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $30.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Moillard Pinot Noir Huges le Juste 2007
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceCompost, earthy, meaty, gamey, medicinal, menthol aromas. Dry, tart, lean, bitter palate. Meaty, medicinal, herbal, bitter green flavours. Poor effort.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Boutari Santorini White 2009
Aegean Islands - Santorini, The Islands, GreeceTaste something different. Open nutty, chalky, floral, spicy, lemon and quince aromas with a grassy note. Dry and rich with a fresh, slightly oily and juicy palate. Lemon oil, butter, nutty quince and apricot flavours with a chalky, pear note. Similar to last vintage made in a rich and juicy style for seafood. Again, very unique style that is well worth investigatingPrices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.50 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Champagne Taittinger Brut Reserve NV
Champagne, FranceNice toasty, honey, peach, baked pear, cherry, citrus mineral aromas. Fresh, clean, fairly dry and very elegant with fine mousse. Light nutty, toasty, mineral, citrus, baked green apple, honey, strawberry, citrus flavours. Fine mousse, balanced, crisp and fresh with light sweetness and brioche on the finish. Delicious, very attractive style and very easy to drink. Well done.Prices:| BC | $74.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Eagle Bluff Crooked Post Pinot Noir 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery pale brick colour. Rhubarb, strawberry, tobacco leaf, spicy, compost, vanilla, chocolate aromas. Dry, elegant, light palate with low extract and some tart notes. Earthy, leafy, coffee, strawberry, herbal, rhubarb flavours mark what is a light, cool pinot. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Rollingdale Pinot Noir Reserve Organic 2007
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGamey, soy, cedar, tobacco leaf, chocolate, cherry aromas. Very dry, hard, tight palate with fresh acidity. Cedar, sour cherry, rhubarb, chocolate, peppery, rooty, meaty, carrot flavours. Has some pinot character but too lean and dry in the back end. Made with organically grown grapes.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Mistaken Identity Pinot Noir 2008
Made from certified organic grapes. Spicy, celery salt, matchstick, rhubarb, herbal, menthol, sour cherry nose. Dry, light, thin, slightly tart palate with light tannins. Cedar, peppery, rooty, earthy, herbal, rhubarb, green flavours.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Louis Latour Pinot Noir Bourgogne 2008
Burgundy, FranceMeaty, cedar bark, tobacco leaf, menthol, gamey, rooty aromas. Dry, thin, light, tart palate with cedar bark, earthy, gamey, tobacco leaf, green dill flavours. Lacks any fruit and generosity.Prices:| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Bonitas Pinot Noir Artist Series 2007
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMenthol, tobacco leaf, pruny, herbaceous, compost, rhubarb aromas. Ripe, round, supple, slightly sweet entry but a bit bitter and soupy. Cherry, prune, coffee, herbal, tobacco leaf, dill, compost, meaty flavours. Showing a bit of oxidation or maturity at this point. pricey. Drink up.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinot Noir 2008
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCoffee, chocolate, kirsch, stewed rhubarb, tobacco leaf, meaty, cedar, compost aromas. Dry, elegant palate but somewhat lean and tart with light tannins. Cedar, tobacco leaf, herbal, resin, coffee, earthy, compost, rhubarb flavours. Simple, dry, herbal style pinot noir.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLeafy, rhubarb, stewed strawberry, leesy, resin, chocolate, gamey aromas. Round, dry, somewhat tart, lean palate but with some elegance. The flavours mix sour cherry, rhubarb, chocolate, spicy, tobacco leaf, herbal, carrot flavours. Simple, cool, herbal style.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cono Sur Organic Pinot Noir 2009
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileOpen spicy, herbal, compost, rhubarb, menthol, caraway aromas. Dry, fresh, somewhat tart entry with menthol, rooty, herbal, raspberry, tobacco leaf flavours. Has solid fruit but it would be better balanced with softer acidity. Try this with food for best results.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Cono Sur Organic Chardonnay 2009
Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileNew, organic un-oaked chardonnay under screwcap that is ridiculously tasty for the price. Look for gooseberry, and spicy aromas. The entry is fresh, crisp and just off-dry with nettle, lemon, grapefruit, gooseberry, passion fruit flavours and a touch of grass. Love the juicy mineral, green guava finish. Buy this one buy the truckload.Prices:| BC | $14.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Villa Teresa Rosé Veneto Vino Frizzante NV
Veneto, ItalyPale salmon colour. Fresh fruity red fruit nose. On the palate you taste soft, candied cherry fruit flavours bolstered by the frizzante or spritz that keeps it light and fresh. Simple playful pink for tapas style appetizers or light evening meals.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Timbuktu Offshore Shiraz Grenache 2008
South Australia, AustraliaVery spicy, raspberry confiture, cherry, floral, liquorice, meaty, savoury nose. Very ripe, warm, round, somewhat sweet entry with fresh acidity. Big raspberry jam, black cherry, peppery, spicy, orange peel, mocha flavours. Finish is very warm and tart with some sweetness but there is plenty of fruit that will appeal to the most drinkers.Prices:| BC | $14.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaSavoury, peppery, smoky, dried herb nose with meaty, leather, blackberry, roasted pepper, mint bits. Dry, tight, fresh palate but full with cassis, blackberry, coffee, savoury, vanilla, waxy, peppery, black olive flavours. Good intensity and texture with a slightly tannic, tea finish. A big red wine made for beef.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Boutari Ode Cabernet Sauvignon Agiorgitko 2007
Nemea, Peloponnese, GreeceOriginating from Korinth, Ode is produced from a 50/50 blend with the fragrant mild agiorgitiko and the rich cabernet sauvignon. Look for peppery, floral, cherry, cassis, smoky meaty almond scented aromas. The entry is elegant and fresh with light tannins and rich savoury, tobacco ash, cassis, black cherry, chocolate, vanilla and liquorice flavours. Well balanced, concentrated and juicy but has some youthful tannin to shed. Best with grilled beef but also to age for 2-3 years.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Boutari Moschofilero 2008
Mantinía, Peloponnese, GreeceElegant, aromatic and enticing on the nose. The entry is light and refreshing, with hints of lime, lemongrass, jasmine and mineral/floral notes that resound on the palate, as well. Made from 100 percent moschofilero grown in the hills of Mantinia. No oak and modest alcohol makes this a go-to summer sipper or wine that pairs well with sushi and lightly spiced seafood dishes.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NL | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sabor Real Tempranillo 2006
Toro, Castilla-Leon, SpainOpen spicy liquorice, black cherry nose with notes of vanilla and orange. The entry is ripe and full with round, fresh warm smoky fruit with bits of meat, black cherry, orange peel and liquorice. A rich round and warm but with a fine fresh fruity underbelly. Try with roast lamb or other grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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09 October 2010
88PTS
Pierre Sparr Sublima Gewurztraminer 2009
Alsace, FranceNew packaging is very modern. Floral, spicy, ginger, light lychee, honey, sausage, mineral aromas. Fresh, round, somewhat sweet entry with butter, honey, floral, ginger, lees, lychee and sausage flavours. A full, elegant style on the sweeter side.Prices:| BC | $22.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Camelot Vineyards Gewürztraminer 2009
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh lychee, ginger, pear, green apple, floral, almond aromas. Round, light, slightly flat and sweet entry with honey, butter, nutty, lychee, sausage, ginger, mineral flavours. An easy sipping, friendly-style gewürztraminer that would be at home with turkey or Thai.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Wild Goose Gewurztraminer Mystic River Vineyard 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGinger, grapefruit, rose petal, lychee, honey, and lemon oil and light lees aromas. Fresh, crisp, slightly sweet palate with a touch of spritz. Green apple skin, honey, leesy, ginger, rose petal, zingy, grapefruit rind flavours. Finish is solid but a bit too much of bitter ginger.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Wild Goose Gewurztraminer 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGinger, dried lychee, rose petal, sausage, green apple, floral, grapefruit aromas. Fresh, light, somewhat sweet palate with lychee, grapefruit rind, honey, bitter ginger, sausage flavours. A bi oily and rindy but fun style.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Schloss Lieser Thomas Haag Riesling 2008
Mosel, GermanyLots of petrol, slate, spicy, nectarine skin, green apple, citrus aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy, delicate palate with good acidity and sweetness balance, Späetlese level. Lime, guava, green apple, orange, honey, slate, light petrol flavours. Great finesse and juicy with crunchy fruit and a touch of tropical on the finish.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
St. Hallett Faith Shiraz 2008
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaDeep cherry colour. Smoky, meaty, barnyard, licorice root, tobacco, coffee, black cherry, blueberry, peppery, vanilla aromas. Rich, ripe, round, tart, slightly sweet palate with supple tannins. Warm with blueberry, black cherry, vanilla, coffee, spicy, chocolate, tobacco, gamey flavours. Good fruit intensity but the finish is just to tart and warm for balance. Serve this with lamb stew.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Luigi Bosca Reserva Syrah 2007
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBig ripe nose of blackberry jam, peppery, spicy, savoury, gamey, liquorice, vanilla aromas. Rich, ripe, round, supple, fresh palate with peppery, tobacco, savoury, vanilla, licorice, black cherry jam, prune plum, smoky flavours. A bit too hot but great intensity and fruit. Good value here.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $21.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Casillero del Diablo Shiraz 2008
Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig black pepper, rooty, leather, meaty, garrigue aromas. Round, dry, tart, lean palate with peppery, tobacco, leather, savoury, herbal, coffee, meaty, black cherry flavours. Good aromas but finish is lacking with a skinny, tart line.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.25 | 750ml |
| NB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sandalford Shiraz 2008
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaVery peppery, gamey, meaty, licorice root, black cherry, black plum, vanilla, coffee, tobacco aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, slightly sweet, warm entry. Lots of blueberry, black cherry, coffee, vanilla, chocolate, floral, candied flavours. A fun, fruity-tutti style for consumers. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz 2008
Clare Valley, South Australia, AustraliaSmoky, curry, tobacco, peppery, meaty, liquorice, blueberry, blackberry, rooty, licorice aromas with a touch of vanilla and coffee. Rich, ripe, round, somewhat tart entry with light tannins. Blueberry, black cherry, liquorice, tobacco, curry, vanilla, chocolate flavours. Good fruit intensity but warm with an edgy finish.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Santa Carolina Coastal Hills Syrah 2009
Melipilla, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileBig black cherry, plum jam, peppery, leather, floral, meaty, licorice nose. Ripe, round, supple, smooth and fresh palate with meaty, gamey, peppery, spicy, liquorice, coffee, black cherry flavours. Good intensity and concentration for near term consumption. Try this with lamb.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Carmen Gran Reserva Syrah 2008
Apalta Valley, Santa Cruz, Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileSmoky, peppery, meaty, gamey, black cherry jam, liquorice root, sauvage aromas. Rich, ripe, round, full, slightly tannic palate. Liquorice, peppery, black cherry, tobacco, gamey, smoky, vanilla, dried sage flavours. A bit hot and tart on the finish but has good intensity. Needs a year or two or try with lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Garry Oaks Prism 2009
Gulf Islands, British Columbia, CanadaVery floral, spicy, honey, ginger, rose soap, green apple aromas. Round, fresh, off dry palate with ginger, spicy, floral, green apple, lees, light butter, honey, mineral, soap flavours. Fun, fresh style.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Escorihuela 1884 Reservado Syrah 2007
Mendoza, ArgentinaMeaty, peppery, leather, tobacco, plum jam, resin, licorice root, lifted aromas. Ripe, round, supple, fresh and juicy palate with peppery, meaty, spicy, floral, plum, black cherry, coffee, liquorice, savoury flavours. Finish is warm but with lots of sweet fruit for consumers to enjoy.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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06 October 2010
88PTS
Red Rooster Pinot Blanc 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLove the fresh nose of lemon, peach and pear aromas seemingly magically released by its screwcap lid. The flavours are similar with pear, green apple notes and a nice riff of mineral and a hint of butter. It finishes round but refreshing. Well made and perfect for the bird. Good value.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Nichol Vineyard Syrah 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, licorice, blackberry, savoury, tobacco, floral, vanilla, rooty, sausage and barnyard aromas. Soft, round, fresh palate with black cherry, meaty, savoury, liocorice, vanilla, sage, tobacco leaf and dried herb flavours. Finish is a bit warm and tart but has good fruit and balance for near term consumption.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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05 October 2010
88PTS
Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling 2008
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesOff dry and fresh with surprising balance and elegance propelled this wine to a major win at the IVWA. Expect a floral peachy nose with ripe red apple flavours and of course refreshing acidity. Washington State has the largest riesling plantings outside of Germany which explains the moderate price. Think spicy Pan Asian foods as the match.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileNot your average $15 cabernet Errazuriz come with a terroir stamp, of cassis and mint and more structure and acidity than most are used in this price range. The nose suggests dried red fruits and bay leaf with bits of liquorice and pencil lead. On the palate the wine is firm, dry and linear with intense black cherry and cassis notes and just a dusting of tannin in the back end. A perfect match with grilled flank steak.Prices:| BC | $15.11 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Errazuriz Don Maximiano Founder's Reserve 2006
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAt 91 percent cabernet Founders is a pure expression of Aconcagua with its intense aromatic cassis nose with bits of cedar and balsamic. The palate is soft and surprisingly elegant; obviously tannin management is now a priority. On the palate resin, pencil lead, red currant ripe olives and peppery, cassis, blackberry fruit mingle with its supple vanilla and tobacco finish. Well-structured and definitely one to age through 2012 and beyond. Game, osso buco and other hearty dishes come easily to mind as a pairing solution. Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $80.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Famiglia Bianchi Malbec 2007
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThe latest version is smooth and glossy with typical black cherries, plums and that savoury, black liquorice and flecks of orange. With one foot in the New World and the other in the Old World this wine represents a true bargain at $18 in British Columbia and a steal in Ontario at $15.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Chateau de Serame Minervois 2007
Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThree years in a row this wine has over delivered and now it is the 2010 "Red Blends" category champion at the 2010 International Value Wine Awards. The mix is a delicious blend of 50 percent mourvèdre, 38 percent grenache noir and 12 percent carignan offering up smoky, meaty, black cherry, chocolate fruit with a dollop of black liquorice. The attack is round and supple. It is rich yet elegant with a floral, black cherry, peppery finish. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileTasted several times the latest bottle now with some age is showing and drinking well. The nose is all Chile with a sappy cassis, minty, bay leaf notes and black olive undercurrent. The palate is round and dry with cassis, chocolate vanilla and licorice root now smoothing out the back end. A solid cabernet that would be perfect with steaks. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.05 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.05 | 750ml |
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04 October 2010
85PTS
Errazuriz Estate Shiraz 2008
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Estate shiraz fruit is grown close to the Don Maximiano Estate in Aconcagua. A third of the wine aged in French and American oak barrels for some eight months. This is simple stuff, showing primary fruit but with acidity that is in check and some spice and warmth in the finish. Best to use this one around the barbecue with hamburgers and or other grilled meats.Prices:| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Syrah (Shiraz) 2008
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe fruit in the Max Reserva Shiraz comes off the Don Maximiano and Ocoa Vineyards in the Valle de Aconcagua. The '08 vintage was cool perhaps further strengthening the Rhone style of this wine despite its shiraz moniker. The wine is aged twelve months in a /60 mix of American and French oak barrels of which 35 per cent are new. The colour is bright, the oak showy but helpful at this point, with spicy clove and cinnamon notes on the nose. The palate round and supple with juicy black fruit flavours and a dry finish. Well made and should be fine with lamb or other roasted meats.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Carmenère Max Reserva 2007
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Carmenère Max Reserva is all sourced from the Aconcagua home base: Don Maximiano Estate. The mix here is 89/11 carmenère/shiraz. The nose is intense and pure offering up peppery red fruits coffee and bits of chocolate. The palate is ripe with delicious juicy fruit, vanilla, and more chocolate and well managed oak. Glossy dense full-bodied carmenère. Well done.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Errazuriz Estate Carmenère 2008
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe estate carmenère offers up classic intense carmenère nose of crushed pepper, crushed dried leaves with bits of soya and coffee and chocolate. The fruit is red with a kiss of cran-cherry and chocolate on the palate. Soft sleek and just a hint glossy this one is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Estate Merlot 2008
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe '08 is 85/15 blend of merlot /carmenère grown in the Curicó Valley. The nose is fresh and fruity with strong brambleberry, pepper and cedar notes. On the palate bay leaf, pepper and minty cassis flavours shape the mouth with equally fresh acidity and light round tannins. Serve with grilled meats, stews and chicken for best results.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Pinot Noir Wild Ferment 2006
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe '06 wild ferment pinot came of the La Escultura vineyard in the Casablanca Valley. The clones here include 115 and 777, most of which was planted in 1996. The '06 year was cool with slow maturation leading to fragrant if less fruity style. The wine is aged for eleven months in French oak barrels, 57% of which were new. The nose is open and aromatic with an earthy, forest floor undercurrent and some red raspberry fruit over top. The oak is subtle and well-integrated. Look for quiet, earthy, red berry flavours light round tannins and bright acidity. Drink up.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Errazuriz Sauvignon Blanc Late Harvest 2007
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileI'm thinking it is the 15 per cent gewürztraminer in the blend that pulls this late harvest sauvignon out of the realm of the ordinary. Expect a fairly crisp wine with aromatic floral/citrus notes and ripe apricot honey, egg yolk and mineral flavours and a refreshing finish. Light and elegant you can serve this solo or with fresh fruit. Interestingly some of the grapes are dehydrated, others frozen while a portion is fermented in used French barrels; another part is kept sur-lie in tank. Good value and it won the LH category at the 2010 IVWA.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Aconcagua Costa, Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe new cool, coastal Aconcagua Costa vineyard is home to this delicious, fresh, cutting edge sauvignon blanc that is a cross between the Loire and Marlborough at about half the price. Expect a healthy citrus/gooseberry nose and palate with bits of melon, lime rind and jalapeno. Mussels, clams, chickens you decide they all work. Terrific value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.00 | 750ml |
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02 October 2010
87PTS
JoieFarm PTG 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPTG stands for "Passetoutgrain" the classic, gulp-able red from Burgundy that combines gamay and pinot noir. At Joie the plan is a much more serious wine and while PTG has all the components to be good it remains a bit youthful and rustic lacking freshness and style. Intense cherry fruit is bathed in oak and spice and for the moment is not showing much other than primary, candied cherries and unknit oak and a warm spicy finish. Best with a hearty fall/winter dishes.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sandhill Gamay Noir Sandhill Vineyard 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis gamay continues to track down the warm spicy oaky track with plenty of pepper and cedar and black fruit aromas. On the palate the style is full-bodied with smoky, spicy, resin, black liquorice and cherry flavours with a bitter ending. Lacks freshness and vitality.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.25 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.79 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Joseph Drouhin Laforet Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2007
Burgundy, FranceLight red colour with a quiet nose of red currants and cranberrie, sour cherries and spice. The plate is fresh with pronounced acidity and cedar notes with more red fruit and spice. Light almost non-descript entry-level Burgundy. I served this with grilled salmon where the fat and oil was a perfect foil to the acidity and dryness of this pinot.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Fish Eye Pinot Grigio 2009
California, United StatesThe latest FishEye gris is a grassy citrus affair with melon/mineral fruit flavours with a touch of residual (it is made in America) to sweeten up the finish. Simple white wine but not particularly varietal as in pinot gris. Made for a light lunch.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $11.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Santa Rita Chardonnay 120 2009
Region del Valle Central, ChilePretty much oak free there is a small amount of barrel fermented juice added for texture and mouth feel. Expect a fresh mineral, crunchy green apple fruit nose with similar flavours and bits of peach in the finish. Good value as always. Think chicken dishes.Prices:| AB | $11.50 | 750ml |
| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Hess Select Chardonnay 2008
Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesNot much has changed here over the years. Classic old-fashioned California chardonnay that has limited appeal in 2010. The nose is fat and buttery with citrus and tropical fruit aromas. On the palate the more butter and baked fruit nuances with sweet peach fruit flavours and plenty of oak. A bit too much for modern-day chardonnay drinkers.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Big House White 2008
California, United StatesEverything but the kitchen sink so to speak is in Big House White. Malvasia bianca, muscat canelli, viognier, grüner veltliner and pinot grigio suggests a fresh fruity aromatic style. The nose is all that and more. On the palate this wine is awash in tropical fruit, honeysuckle, apricot notes. A sort of inexpensive Conundrum with a slightly bitter finish. A warmer richer version of the Okanagan fruit salad blend. good vlaue.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
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November 2010