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Tastings: July 2011
31 July 2011
86PTS
Jaume Serra Brut Nature Cava NV
SpainPale colour with a super, fresh nose with chalk and mineral highlights and the scent of fresh oysters. The entry is as clean as whistle with dry, nutty, green apple fruit and a persistent refined citrus flavoured mousse. Rich intense and ready for a myriad of food choices.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Reserva 2008
Mendoza, ArgentinaTypically dark and mineral scented this robust malbec with its plummy, black cherry, smoky, floral nose. The attack is identical led by its minerality and savoury plummy fruit flecked with notes of orange and chocolate. The finish is long and firm with excellent acidity. Good value too. T-bones anyone?Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Heggies Vineyard Chardonnay 2009
Eden Valley, South Australia, AustraliaHeggies has long respected the Burgundian model and the vineyards several aspects and multiple clones over deliver in '89. It is all fermented wild in a combination of new and used French oak yielding a mix of citrus, pear skin, baked green apple/nectarine and oatmeal aromas that finish dry and crisp. The attack is dry and fruity with more pear, butter flavours and a creamy lees finish. Very food friendly.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Terra Andina Semillon Chardonnay 2008
Region del Valle Central, ChileFresh clean peachy grapefruit nose with bits of grass and mango. The entry is round and slightly flat (likely the chardonnay) but with fresh acidity and structure (from the sémillon). On the palate you note minerality mixed with grapefruit and grassy, green melon flavours. Solid simple white wine.Prices:| BC | $8.00 | 750ml |
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30 July 2011
83PTS
Moon Curser Viognier 2009
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, pear, grapefruit rind, rosewater, solvent-y aroma. Crisp, dry, flat palate with bitter grapefruit rind, quince, salty, apple skin, lees flavours and following the theme a bitter finish. Try this with an Indian curry.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Coastal Region, South AfricaCanned asparagus, jalapeno, lemon, smoky, herbal aromas. Dry, fresh, crisp palate with citrus, smoked jalapeno, asparagus, artichoke and gooseberry flavours. Finish is slightly sweet and sour. A simple, green style blanc to be served al fresco well chilled.Prices:| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $16.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $16.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante Alouette Blanc 2007
Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceAfter a long day of tasting ordinary wine Chante Aloutte can inspire. The spicy, honey, nutty, ginger, floral nose is très exotique and flecked with baked quince and lemon oil. The attack is rich, round, juicy and full-bodied but the palate is refreshingly dry. Waxy, cedar, lemon oil, leesy, cooked ginger, quince and floral, mineral flavours mark its palate. The finish is broad and warm but clean with a lot of intensity and unique flavours. We suggest lightly curried prawns as a match but you can use your imagination here.Prices:| BC | $66.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $74.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $74.50 | 750ml |
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29 July 2011
89PTS
Penfolds Riesling Bin 51 2010
Eden Valley, South Australia, AustraliaBin 51 spends a brief period in stainless steel before heading to bottle. High altitude/cool climate fruit sourcing is the trick behind this delicious drinking riesling that appeals on a wide level. The intense bright rosé petal and lime rind nose with talcum powder notes previews a minerally, passion fruit and lime soaked palate. Summer salads, Asian dishes and goats cheese all work here. Ready to drink. Closed under screwcap for maximum freshness and ageing potential.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $29.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $27.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Calliope Viognier 2010
British Columbia, CanadaFloral, green apple skin, canned grapefruit, butter, lees aromas with a touch of honey. The entry is fresh, crisp and juicy but the flavours sweet and sour and light. Spicy, canned pink grapefruit, buttered popcorn and green apple flavours. Lacks ripeness for the variety. Best with sauced seafood dishes. Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Pentagram Viognier 2009
Black Sea Region, BulgariaMineral, spicy, seashell, lees, honey, light ginger, cheesy, dried herb aromas, very unusual. Dry, flat, round, palate with green apple, grassy, ginger, waxy, floral flavours. Simple and dry finish. Fair price.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Three Winds Viognier 2010
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceFloral, honey, matchstick, popcorn, green pineapple, light lees aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, somewhat sweet palate with honey, citrus, baked pear, ginger, baked apple flavours. Simple, fresh, attractive consumer style for the money.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Serendipity Viognier 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, matchstick, leesy, egg yolk, citrus, honey aromas. Dry, flat, leesy, matchstick, ginger, grassy, garlic, butter flavours. It has some viognier character but it needs better acidity and little less lees character.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kettle Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntense gooseberry, passion fruit, grapefruit, grassy, cooked kiwi and artichoke aromas. Round, fresh, juicy but somewhat sweet palate with canned grapefruit, bitter herb, passion fruit and gooseberry flavours. Good fruit but with a bitter and sweet finish. Try it with a fresh chicken salad. Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Arabella Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaGooseberry, asparagus, passion fruit, smoky, bell pepper, citrus aromas. Soft, fresh, off-dry palate with grapefruit rind, grassy, jalapeno, asparagus, and gooseberry flavours. Solid, greener style at a fair price.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Liberty School Chardonnay 2008
California, United StatesRipe pineapple, honey, lemon, buttery, smoky oak, honey aromas. Fresh, round, elegant with some sweetness. Buttered popcorn, smoky, grassy, baked apple, leesy flavours. Very old style.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thelema Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Elgin, Overberg, South AfricaBell pepper, grassy, artichoke, canned grapefruit aromas. Fresh, crisp, round, slightly sweet palate with lemon, nettle, peppery, bell pepper, artichoke, grassy flavours. Crisp, zippy, smoky herb finish. Try with steamed mussels or clams.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blue Mountain Reserve Chardonnay 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNutty, lemon, leesy, baked green apple, oatmeal, grassy aromas. Very dry, tart, austere palate with lemon, green apple, butterscotch, nutty lees, biscuit-y flavours. A very leesy, tart style that needs food.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Viognier +7/10 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWe were hoping for a leaner version but year two looks a lot like year one. Look for a spicy, grassy, grapefruit, honey, lees nose with bits of buttered popcorn and some volatile notes. Ripe, round, fresh, flat and sweet palate with burnt matchstick, honey, baked quince, pineapple, grassy, leesy flavours. If you like your viognier sweet this is it. Pair it with spicy dishes for best results.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine du Clos du Bourg Sauvignon Touraine 2010
Touraine, Loire, FranceGooseberry, grapefruit, passion fruit, light bell pepper and jalapeno aromas with a light smoky, herb note. Crisp, dry, fresh palate with grassy, jalapeno, grapefruit, passion fruit, lemon flavours. A more austere style but great for summer seafood like grilled squid.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Foppiano Estate Chardonnay 2009
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesPeach, honey, leesy, grapefruit, nutty aromas with a touch of butter. Soft, round, easy palate with a bit of sweetness. Buttered popcorn, honey, nutty lees, baked apple and citrus flavours. A bit short and warm on the finish.Prices:| CDN | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Benziger Chardonnay Los Carneros 2008
Carneros, Sonoma County, California, United StatesHoney, nutty lees, spicy, butterscotch, baked apple, diacetyl aromas. Fresh, crisp, dry but slightly oily palate. Very nutty lees, garlic, citrus, green apple, pear skin and honey flavours. Solid, somewhat heavy lees style with some finesse in finish. Halibut woudl be a fine match.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Township 7 Un-Oaked Chardonnay 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLeesy, butter and matchstick notes mix with green apple skin. Soft, fresh, round, sweet and sour palate with butter, herbal, grassy, leesy, honey flavours with a short, matchstick, egg finish. Lacks verve and freshness, could it be the synthetic cork?Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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28 July 2011
92PTS
Penfolds Shiraz Kalimna Bin 28 2006
South Australia, AustraliaFive years in the bottle has set this shiraz up to show off now. Love the soft spicy, smoky nose with notes of chocolate, black cherry, liquorice and cola. The plate is soft and ripe with spicy savoury blueberry, liquorice fruit with muted vanilla, coffee, cola, graphite flavours. Consistently good and ready to drink. Would be great on restaurant wine lists. A classic with roast leg of lamb or hard cheeses.Prices:| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $41.00 | 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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91PTS
Castello di Bossi Chianti Classico Riserva 'Berardo' 2006
Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena, Tuscany, ItalyPeppery, tobacco, meaty, ash, licorice, black cherry jam, leather, rooty, menthol aromas. Rich, ripe, full palate with good acidity and some youthful tannin. Plum, black cherry, licorice, tobacco, peppery, meaty, cedar flavours. Good concentration and intensity but could use 1-3 years to round out.Prices:| BC | $54.90 | 750ml |
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27 July 2011
91PTS
Domaine Christian Moreau Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon Cuvée Guy Moreau 2009
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceFloral, seashell, grassy, pear skin, green apple, light honey aromas. Dry, fresh, crisp, and juicy, round palate. Grassy, green apple, honey, seaweed, light lees, spicy, nettle flavours. Still very youthful with good acidity on the finish with an oyster shell note but has finesse. Drink now -3 years.Prices:| BC | $43.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Joseph Drouhin Macon-Villages 2009
Mâconnais, Burgundy, FranceGrassy, green apple, floral, citrus, mineral, pear skin aromas. Dry, fresh, crisp, elegant palate with a touch of austerity. Butter, mineral, apple skin, pear, grassy, honey flavours. A more austere style with some finesse.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ruffino Tenuta Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino 2004
Tuscany, ItalySpicy, peppery, tobacco, ash, floral, black cherry, prune, cedar, barnyard aromas. Rich, ripe, round, dry palate with some youthful but balanced tannins but an austere note. Peppery, licorice, black cherry, ash, leather, barnyard, iron, prune and mineral flavours. Good intensity but still youthful, needs 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $50.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Quinta Ferreira Chardonnay 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, honey, butter, matchstick, baked apple, popcorn, nectarine aromas. Sweet, round, fat, fresh palate with honey, baked nectarine, spiced apple, cooked citrus and bound sulphur flavours. A bit too sweet, heavy and warm for food. A touch more freshness will help.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Merlot 2008
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBlack cherry, prune plum, spicy, menthol, tobacco, cedar, espresso oak aromas. Round, dry, slightly lean and austere with minty, spicy, smoky oak, vanilla, cedar, resin, sour cherry. A bit cool yet soupy and hollow on the finish. Drink up.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.50 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Terra Andina Carmenère Syrah 2010
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChilePeppery, sappy, cassis, menthol, chocolate, cherry jam aromas. Ripe, round, supple and smooth with fresh acidity and some sweetness. Cassis, prune, cedar, tobacco, earthy, chocolate flavours. Sweet but has good fruit in a very Yellowish tail style.Prices:| BC | $8.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Terra Andina Cabernet - Merlot 2009
Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, meaty, celery salt, cassis, leafy, tobacco aromas. Sweet, fresh, round, supple palate with cassis, leafy, tobacco, black olive, plum, cedar flavours. A very commercial style that will appeal to some.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Long Neck Chardonnay 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaSpiced apple, earthy, baked pear, butter, honey aromas. Fresh, crisp, off dry palate with apple skin, butter, spicy, pear flavours. Simple, easy style for the general consumer.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Long Neck Merlot 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaPeppery, prune, earthy nose with leafy, cassis and coffee aromas. Round, fresh, tart, somewhat sweet entry with stewed prune, leafy, tobacco, smoked tomato and herb flavours with a hot finish.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Long Neck Shiraz 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaMeaty, barnyard, smoky, peppery, prune, blueberry aromas. Round, supple, sweet and fresh entry with prune, earthy, smoked meat, peppery, blueberry, chocolate, leafy flavours. Has fruit but too sweet and sour and leafy.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kettle Valley Pinot Noir 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPruny, dried cherry, coffee, meaty, barnyard, compost aromas. Ripe, round, supple but dry and warm palate. Meaty, earthy, pruny, cherry, rooty, coffee, cedar, cooked carrot, celery root flavours. A very warm style of pinot that is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Kettle Valley Cabernet Merlot 2007
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaStewed prune, leafy, peppery, tobacco, smoked tomato, coffee, earthy aromas with a bit of barnyard. Warm, dry, round, fresh palate with tobacco leaf, savoury, dried herb, cassis, meaty, leather, soy flavours with a cedary, oaky finish.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Altesino Rosso di Montalicino 2007
Tuscany, ItalyVery meaty, pruny, peppery, spicy, rooty, cooked carrot, tobacco ash aromas. Soft, round, supple, easy palate with cherry, meaty, gamey, tobacco, resin, earthy, sweaty saddle leather flavours. Good acidity and suppleness but a very simple, rustic bottle for the price.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Branciforti Fuedi Bordonaro Nero d'Avola 2009
Sicily, ItalySpicy, tobacco, black cherry, plum, cedar, chocolate and spiced meat aromas. Round, fresh, supple, juicy palate with plum jam, black cherry, spicy, olive, floral flavours. A bit tart on the finish but has great fruit intensity for current drinking. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Noir 2008
California, United StatesSmoky, spicy, barnyard, celery salt, meaty, plum, cherry and tea aromas. Soft, round, supple palate with a hint of sweetness. Cherry jam, meaty, spicy, leather, celery, cooked rhubarb, barnyard and leather flavours. Simple, easy, forward style.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $20.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Robert Mondavi Private Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
California, United StatesLeafy, tobacco, roasted bell pepper, compost, cassis aromas. Round, supple, fresh, slightly sweet palate with cassis, prune, peppery, leafy, cedar, tobacco, herbal flavours. A surprisingly green style for California.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.00 | 750ml |
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26 July 2011
93PTS
Morlet Family Vineyards Passionnément Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Oakville, Napa Valley, California, United StatesVery ripe cassis, black berry, peppery, spicy, tobacco, cedar, leather, violet, earthy, mineral aromas with a touch of barnyard. Rich, full, round and ripe with grainy tannins and good acidity. Blackberry jam, cassis, chocolate, tobacco, cedar, peppery, minty, earthy, vanilla and smoky coffee flavours. A bit jammy with youthful tannins but very good intensity and balance, needs 3-5 years. Carries the alcohol better than the Mon Chevalier.Prices:| BC | $298.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Morlet Family Vineyards Mon Chevalier Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesBig cassis jam, black berry, tobacco, kirsch, floral, vanilla, earthy, menthol, peppery, barnyard aromas. Dry, ripe, round, supple and full palate with good acidity and some warmth. Black berry, black cherry jam, earthy, smoky, tobacco, cedar, peppery, black olive flavours with some vanilla, chocolate and leather on the finish. Fine balance and fruit with smooth textures but with a warm 15.2% alcohol finish. The blend is 86 cabernet sauvignon, 8 cabernet franc, 3 merlot, 2 malbec and one percent petit verdot.Prices:| BC | $210.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Morlet Family Vineyards Ma Princesse Chardonnay 2009
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesSpicy, nutty, waxy, floral nose with peach, honey, vanilla, lemon and green apple aromas. Round, fresh, elegant, slightly warm palate but with bright acidity and finesse. More spicy, nutty, earthy, honey, baked apple flavours flecked with peach and green mango. Fine delicacy and finesse with a toasty, baked apple finish. Seems a bit lighter and delicate than Ma Douce. The cuttings are a field selection of the old Wente clone. Only 200 cases produced.Prices:| BC | $120.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Morlet Family Vineyards Ma Douce Chardonnay 2009
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesFloral, peach, nutty, earthy, citrus, honey, baked pear, lemon, spicy aromas. Ripe, round, elegant, full, creamy, slightly oily palate. Juicy acidity with baked pear, nutty, spicy lees, honey, lemon, ginger, nectarine, muscat, vanilla and honeysuckle flavours. Very fine length and finesse with good fruit. Great now but should improve for 2-4 years. True cool-climate chardonnay grown on the coast of Sonoma (the second ridge from the ocean). 360 cases produced.Prices:| BC | $100.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Morlet Family Vineyards La Proportion Dorée 2008
Sonoma County, California, United StatesHoney, spicy, nutty, grapefruit, hay, lemon, acacia, grassy, ginger aromas. Dry, fresh, round, elegant, warm palate with good textures and juicy acidity. Waxy, honey, ginger, mineral, baked pear, grapefruit, lemon, nutty, spicy, nettle flavours with a touch of vanilla and butter on the finish. Very good finesse and balance despite a bit of warmth. 500 cases.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Calliope Sauvignon Blanc 2010
British Columbia, CanadaGrapefruit, floral, soapy, passion fruit, jalapeno, light lees aromas. Fresh, juicy, round, slightly sweet palate but good acidity. Gooseberry, canned grapefruit, mineral, spicy, honey and green apple flavours. A bit simple but good juicy fruit style with enough sweetness for the general consumer.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine 2008
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceVery peppery, saddle leather, barnyard, black cherry, cedar, smoked meat, cooked carrot, gamey, garrigue aromas. Ripe, round, rich, supple palate with smoky, prune, black cherry jam, gamey, garrigue, kirsch, peppery, resin and tobacco flavours. Youthful, gamey, rustic style with good complexity and a bit of stuffing with some warmth on the finish. Now -5 years.Prices:| BC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $53.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $52.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Blue Mountain Reserve Pinot Gris 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, pear, apple, honey, citrus, spicy, butt, mineral aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy palate but slightly austere. Light lees, vanilla, green apple skin, grapefruit, grassy, pear and lemon flavours. Solid intensity in a more Chablis like style.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Kettle Valley Chardonnay 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNutty, spicy, floral, cheesy, garlic, baked apple, honey aromas, very bizarre. Ripe, round, fresh, juicy palate but somewhat sweet. Canned apple, canned grapefruit, and nutty, spicy, honeyed flavours.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Mendoza Heights Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Mendoza, ArgentinaThe low has reached new heights with its cedar bark, tobacco leaf, mothball, leafy, cassis nose. Sweet, tart, round palate with earthy, tobacco leaf, mothball, volatile, stewed veg flavours. Disappointing and gross misuse of the "Mendoza" moniker.Prices:| BC | $8.50 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Mendoza Heights Chardonnay 2010
Mendoza, ArgentinaFloral, nectarine baked green apple, spicy, matchstick aromas. Ripe, round, fresh, somewhat sweet entry with citrus, green apple skin, baked pear, honey, slightly bitter citrus rind flavours. Basic but solid value.Prices:| BC | $8.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Trapiche Reserve Malbec 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaVery meaty, reduced, tobacco, resin, savoury, rubbery, black cherry aromas. Round, fresh, supple palate with cherry, chocolate, roasted peppers, tobacco, savoury, spicy flavours. Needs a bit of aeration to open up.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Louis Latour Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru 2006
Aloxe-Corton, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceButter, nutty, spicy, baked pear, acacia, apple, floral, quince and vanilla aromas. Rich, full, big but slightly austere with good acidity. Honey, butter, nutty lees, spicy, waxy, baked pear, mineral, citrus and clove flavours. Big but good acidity and structure, will age well over the next 3-7 years.Prices:| BC | $400.00 | 1500ml |
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91PTS
Faustino de Autour Reserva Especial 2001
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainSmoked meat, tobacco, earthy, peppery, black cherry jam, vanilla, prune, saddle leather and tobacco with a bit of cedar, Band-Aid and barnyard. Rich, round, dry, supple but grainy tannins on the palate. Floral, coffee, spicy, licorice, prune, cherry jam, leather, plum, smoky, savoury flavours with a meaty, vanilla finish. Good complexity but young with some tannins to shed. Needs 2-4 years but will improve in bottle.Prices:| BC | $48.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Faustino V Reserva Rioja 2005
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainBig spicy, savoury, meaty, Band-Aid, saddle leather, prune, tobacco, cedar and dried cherry aromas. Ripe, round, dry, supple palate. Smoky, meaty, peppery, Band-Aid, resin, barnyard, leather, and pruny, cooked carrot flavours. This has concentration and balance but it's pretty strong on the Brettanomyces nostril scale.Prices:| NS | $26.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Auzolan Joven Tinto Cosecha Organic 2009
Navarra and Basque Country, SpainMeaty, spicy, smoky, tobacco, resin, black berry and cedar aromas. Ripe, round, fresh and supple palate. Black cherry jam, plum, savoury, spicy, meaty, chocolate and cedar flavours. Fruity finish with some light tannins but well balanced. Very solid effort.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Langmeil Three Gardens SMG 2009
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaLiquorice, floral, black berry jam, black cherry, meaty, coffee, smoky, light vanilla aromas. Rich round, full bodied and smooth with juicy acidity and a touch of sweetness. Smoky, black plum jam, liquorice, tobacco, clove, earth and savoury flavours. A bit hot but has good fruit and balance for current consumption. Try with roast duck or pork.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Lujuria 2008
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainSpicy, savoury, plum, floral, cedar, meaty, tobacco, cherry aromas. Fresh, juicy, slightly tannic palate. Black cherry, plum, cedar, tobacco, meaty, peppery, savoury, liquorice flavours. A bit tart but has good fruit and intensity. Can't beat the value here.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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25 July 2011
87PTS
La Vieille Ferme Côtes du Luberon Blanc 2010
Côtes du Lubéron, Provence, Sud de France, FranceFresh, peachy ginger nose with bits of white flowers and lemon oil. The entry is dry and crisp with nectarine, baked pear, and almond, mineral and ginger flavours. There is fine intensity of flavours and it's persistent through the finish. Should be perfect with halibut and fruit salsa.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.30 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.30 | 750ml |
| NS | $11.66 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 1500ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
De Martino Legado Reserva Syrah 2010
Choapa Valley, Coquimbo Region, ChileCorked, try another.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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81PTS
Serendipity Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig sulphur dioxide, matchstick nose with pungent, gooseberry/cat pee notes. The entry is fresh and tart with bitter grapefruit, mineral, grassy, green passion fruit flavours. Marred by excessive sulphur, decant and aerate before serving. There's potential here but the sulphur needs to be dealt with better next time.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Gray Monk Pinot Auxerrois 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh green apple skin, lemon, pear, floral aromas with a touch of honey. Fresh, juicy, crisp palate with a hint of sweetness. Quince, lemon, green apple, mineral, baked pear flavours. Good juicy style for summer or seafood.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Three Mile Wines Pinot Noir Stone Hill Vineyards 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, rhubarb, sour cherry, herbal, carrot top, cool root aromas. Dry, somewhat astringent, tart palate with rhubarb, herbal, compost, tobacco leaf, sour cherry, cedar flavours. Simple, somewhat lean style.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Summa Quies Sin Cera 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMeaty, spicy, peppery, black cherry, barnyard, cola, chocolate bar aromas. Round, fresh and slightly astringent on entry but with a hollow palate. Smoky, espresso, green herb, olive, cherry, tobacco leaf and resin flavours lead to a dry finish. A bit to short and light in our estimation to carry the tannin and oak that marks the finish. Try this with some soft creamy cheese.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Summa Quies Pinot Noir 2009
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCherry, prune, spicy, tobacco leaf, coffee, licorice, cola, light barnyard aromas. Round, dry, fresh, warm palate with warm raspberry, leafy, peppery, rooty, cedar, liquorice, stewed rhubarb flavours. Solid but on the lean side with stewed (warm-site fruit) on the finish.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Louis Bernard Reserve de Bonpass Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2009
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceMeaty, gamey, ripe black cherry jam, coffee, peppery, spicy, licorice aromas. Ripe, round, dry, supple palate with light tannins. Smoked meat, peppery, black cherry jam, prune, savoury flavours. Good solid, honest, chunky red for your summer barbecue.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine la Souco Papale Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2007
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceBlack raspberry jam, roasted bell pepper, smoky, gamey, meaty, garrigue, saddle leather aromas. Ripe, round, supple, elegant style with peppery, tobacco leaf, compost, meaty, smoked bell pepper, black cherry, garrigue flavours. Meaty, slightly herbal, cherry finish. Ready to drink or keep a year or two.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $39.25 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Domaine la Souco Papale Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2009
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FrancePeppery, gamey, black cherry, liquorice, spicy, barnyard, roast beef aromas. Rich, round, supple palate with light tannins. Black cherry jam, plum kirsch, orange peel, gamey, garrigue, peppery, floral, licorice, chocolate flavours. Good concentration and intensity with ability to age 2-5 years. Well balanced, medium weight style. Will be a fine bottle by 2019.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $39.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine des Causses Lirac 2009
Lirac, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceBig spicy, white pepper, black raspberry jam, smoky, floral, licorice, gamey aromas. Ripe, round, dry, slightly tannic palate but full and balanced. Plum jam, black cherry, peppery, spicy, savoury, gamey, licorice flavours. Finish is warm and juicy with good fruit intensity. Drink now or keep for a few years. Worth seeking out.Prices:| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Louis Latour Meursault Blagny Chateau de Blagny 1er Cru 2009
Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceSpicy, grapefruit, floral, peach pit, pear, butter, lemon and mineral aromas. Rich, ripe, full and crisp with good acidity and concentration. Spicy, orange, citrus, green apple, pear, butter, vanilla and light lees flavours. Very good for the vintage with the ability to improve over the next 2-5 years.Prices:| BC | $71.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Louis Latour Meursault Blagny Chateau de Blagny 1er Cru 2005
Meursault, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceLight gold colour. Spicy, floral, honey, pear, quince, stony, peach pit aromas. Ripe, round, full but tight with good acidity and concentration. Juicy pear, baked apple, lemon, butter, spicy lees flavours. Good finish and length with acidity to allow aging 2-4 more years.Prices:| BC | $72.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Oxford Landing Pinot Grigio 2010
South Australia, AustraliaRipe pear, spicy, baked apple skin, butter and citrus aromas. Fresh, round, slightly soft palate with a touch of sweetness. Apple skin, pear, grapefruit, light leesy, cheesy, honey flavours. Simple and affordable.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Snap Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
California, United StatesCedar bark, menthol, resin, coffee extract, jammy aromas. Sweet, tart, tannic palate with cedar bark, candied herbs, tobacco leaf, and resin flavours. Disappointing cabernet in this day and age of wine growing.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Rosenblum Cellars Zinfandel 2007
California, United StatesCedar bark, menthol, pruny, berry jam, barnyard aromas. Round, warm, slightly astringent, tart palate with cedar bark, resin, licorice root, herbal, cooked olive, peppery flavours. Not a lot of zin characters.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sterling Vineyards Chardonnay Vintner's Collection 2009
Central Coast, California, United StatesHoney, pear, light citrus and butter aromas. Round, fresh, but soft and slightly oily palate with some sweetness. Butter, honey, citrus rind, green apple flavours. A somewhat more commercial style with a sweet and sour finish.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sterling Vineyards Merlot Vintner's Collection 2008
Central Coast, California, United StatesMenthol, cedar bark, coffee bean, tobacco, peppery, spicy aromas with a pine and cherry note. Round, chunky, slightly tannic palate with cedar bark, chocolate, herbal, menthol, rooty, herbal flavours. A basic barbecue red.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $16.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Ikella Malbec 2009
Agrelo District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaLeesy, cola, peppery, savoury, licorice, herbaceous, roasted mushroom aromas. Round, fresh, slightly lean and astringent with cola, rooty, herbal, peppery, black cherry, leesy, resin flavours. Somewhat on the green and reduced side. Best with grilled meats. Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Vina Maipo Limited Edition Syrah 2008
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileVery spicy, peppery, menthol, meaty, black cherry jam, coffee, vanilla, barnyard, saddle leather aromas. Dry, somewhat lean, tart, warm palate but lacks mid-palate concentration. Meaty, cedar, coffee, peppery, spicy, black cherry, resin flavours. Solid but lacks the length and finish its price demands.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $29.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Margaret River, Western Australia, AustraliaLeafy, mentholatum, cedar, black olive, resin aromas. Dry, somewhat astringent, fresh palate with cedar, herbal, coffee, peppery, rooty, riparian, cassis flavours. Rustic and ready for that hamburger but way too herbaceous for the money and our palate.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Faustino I Rioja Gran Reserva 1999
Rioja Alavesa, Rioja, SpainLeather, prune, barnyard, smoky nose with meaty, Band-Aid, cedar, cherry jam, soy and liquorice aromas. The attack is dry and supple but slightly lean with light tannins. Cherry jam, prune, spice and leather, coffee flavours with bits of vanilla, cedar, tobacco and olive flavours with some smoky, meaty, barnyard notes on the finish. Good concentration and intensity with less Brett showing than in past vintages. Nearly ready to drink. Try it with turkey. Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
St. Hallett Old Block Shiraz 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaBig black berry jam, blueberry, chocolate, coffee, spicy, pruny, vanilla, menthol, leather aromas. Rich, full, ripe, round palate with fresh acidity and some light tannins. Coffee, liquorice, peppery, blueberry, black berry, pruny, resin, menthol flavours. Some green tannin notes with some heat on the finish.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $56.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $47.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $60.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Castaño C Monastrell 2009
Yecla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainVery spicy, savoury, peppery, cedar, menthol, smoky, black cherry and tar aromas. Fresh, round, supple and juicy palate. Black cherry, plum, cedar, liquorice, tobacco, meaty, peppery flavours. A bit warm on the fin ish but has good fruit and textures. Continued good value.Prices:| BC | $11.40 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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24 July 2011
88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Pinot Noir Vintner's Reserve 2009
California, United StatesA blend from multiple estate vineyards throughout California. Cola, licorice, black cherry, tobacco, compost, peppery, barnyard, clove and celery salt aromas. Round, supple, elegant, fresh palate with black cherry, raspberry jam, spicy, tobacco, clove, cedar and celery flavour with a bit of carrot top on the finish. Good finesse and fruit for a current drinking style. Certainly the best yet in this range from KJ.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Serendipity Serenada 2008
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen smoky, cedar, vanilla, and resin, barnyard nose flecked with leather, coffee, black berry jam and gamey aromas. The entry is dry, full and warm with somewhat chunky tannins. Look for a fresh peppery, cedar, tobacco, earthy, black berry palate with bits of coffee, vanilla, cola, black tea and carrot top flavours. A bit dry and rustic but with ageing potential. Serve now with grilled meats or wait 24 months for further integration.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Chateau St. Jean Fumé Blanc 2009
Sonoma County, California, United StatesFloral, grassy, grapefruit, passion fruit, fig, vanilla, nettle and honey aromas. Fresh, juicy, round, elegant palate with nettle, grassy, bell pepper, smoky, grapefruit and vanilla flavours with a bit of lees. Good solid seafood wine for drinking now.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $31.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Pinot Gris +18/10 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaApple skin, light lees, citrus, baked pear, butter and light vanilla aromas. Fresh, juicy, crisp palate but with a somewhat sweet note. Honey, butter, popcorn, green apple, pear, grapefruit flavours. Finish is a bit warm, and sweet and sour, with buttery notes. Needs another six months to fully integrate in the bottle. Try this with fresh halibut and a fruit salsa.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Louis Latour Chateau Corton Grancey Grand Cru 1998
Aloxe-Corton, Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceSpicy, tobacco, barnyard, prune, cherry, meaty, licorice, floral, light Band-Aid aromas. Ripe, round, supple and full with good elegance but still some light tannin. Prune, tobacco, soy, dried cherry, compost, mineral, dried herb and waxy, earthy flavours. Very good finesse if a bit austere and warm but in fine shape. Drink now - 5 years.Prices:| BC | $125.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Henry Fessy Saint-Amour 2009
Saint-Amour, Beaujolais Villages, Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceLiquorice, meaty, spicy, black cherry, waxy, floral, gamey, plum, mineral nose. Ripe, round, rich and concentrated with juicy acidity. Black raspberry jam, cherry, liquorice, gamey, peppery, spicy, orange peel flavours. Big style with some light tannin but great intensity with the ability to improve over the next 2-5 years. Great value here and in many cru Beaujolais now.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Louis Latour Montagny 1er Cru 2008
Montagny, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, FranceEarthy, apple, light lees, floral, pear aromas. Round, fresh, juicy palate with baked apple, pear, spicy lees, chalky, lemon flavours. Good concentration and intensity, will age 1-3 years.Prices:| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Concha Y Toro Marqués de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2009
Valle del Limari, ChileButter, green apple, honey, citrus, nectarine aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy. Light palate with butter, green apple, spicy lees, honey and lime flavours. Fresh, more delicate style with a bit of oak. Solid.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Schug Pinot Noir Carneros 2008
Carneros, Sonoma County, California, United StatesBlack cherry, smoky, tobacco leaf, celery root, barnyard, meaty, herbal, compost aromas with a touch of orange rind. Dry, fresh, supple and elegant palate with juicy acidity. Savory, spicy, cherry, cedar, carrot top, orange and vanilla flavours with some smoke and strawberry jam on the finish. Good fruit and finesse with light tannins on the finish. Drink now - 3 years.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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21 July 2011
88PTS
Attems Pinot Grigio 2009
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyMuch like last year's grigio the nose is an enticing mix of pear, spice and honey drizzled with citrus and almonds. The attack is fresh and citrusy with honey, earth and juicy nectarine and pear flavours with surprising concentration and length. A lovely wine for seafood salads and pastas.Prices:| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Domaine du Pioch d'Or 2009
Picpoul de Pinet, Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FrancePicpoul makes a lot of sense in the summer heat. This '09 is getting long in the tooth but still offers up that wisp of Meyer lemon and honey with fresh minerality and a hint of ginger spice on the nose and palate. Good flavour intensity makes it one of few wines suited to soup such as bouillabaisse or simply pour freely on the patio.Prices:| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde 2010
Vinho Verde, Northern Portugal, PortugalJust the essence of the fruit here with light chalky, melon, lime rind and citrus aromas. The attack is similarly fresh and crisp with juicy mineral, green apple / green melon flavours with a citrus water finish. Classic summer sipper for light fare. Bring on the heat and a great try something different wine.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $12.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Famille Perrin Côtes du Rhône Rouge Réserve 2009
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceHow good is the 2009 vintage in the Rhone? Try this delicious Rhone red blend and consider the value. The fruit is ripe and round in '09 with a fresh open peppery, meaty nose flecked with the famous scent of wild herbs or garrigue. The palate is almost glossy with fine texture and rich, ripe, plummy, black cherry flavours flecked with mandarin skin. Super value.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Punto Final Malbec 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaWe like consistency and this label is starting to deliver that each year. Love the supple, fresh peppery palate with mineral, savoury bay leaf and liquorice notes mixed with black cherry flavours with a warm black raspberry aftertaste. Grilled meat seems an obvious choice but serve it with a chimichurri sauce.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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20 July 2011
88PTS
Santa Carolina Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2011
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileTasted the 2011 during the heat wave in southern Ontario and did it ever deliver. Like the 2010, Santa Carolina has nailed the fresh, mineral aspects of this variety with light, seawater, grapefruit and watermelon flavours. The style is refreshing without the aggressive, bitter asparagus notes in the finish but rather light, smoky jalapeno and juicy guava notes. Extreme value.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.75 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $11.26 | 750ml |
| NF | $11.11 | 750ml |
| NB | $11.00 | 750ml |
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17 July 2011
94PTS
Penfolds Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay 2008
Tasmania, South Australia, AustraliaChief Penfolds winemaker Peter Gago and the white wine team continue to refine the Yattarna ((little by little, gradually) and the 2008 is a sensational edition. The nose is a tour de force of freshness and subtle wisps of lemon, butter, lees and toasted cashews and baked apple. The attack is crisp but with delicacy and finesse and a creamy texture. More juicy flavours include honey, baked apple, oyster liquor and mineral flavours with a touch of seashore and chalk. Definitely Euro-style and its 87 per cent Tasmanian fruit with the remainder picked at Adelaide Hills. This wine is now capable of a decade of ageing. Super quality. All French oak 45-50 per cent is new. Prices:| BC | $110.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $130.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $125.00 | 750ml |
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14 July 2011
95PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 707 2008
South Australia, AustraliaClassic multi-vineyard and multi-regional (Coonawarra, Barossa Valley and Wrattonbully) cab that hits all the high notes in 2008. Open floral violet nose with a savoury cassis undercurrent. The attack is foursquare with a swarm of brooding black plummy fruit, cloves, espresso and liquorice root. The tannins are firm but fine-grained and supportive of the oak and fruit. Peter Gago hints there could be some Block 42 cabernet in the mix. Whatever this is a serious vintage of 707 and will easily rank among the best in the last 15 years.Prices:| BC | $150.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $145.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $199.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $160.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $120.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $128.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 407 2008
South Australia, AustraliaExpect a deep darkly coloured red, with expressive cabernet sauvignon aroma and flavours. Black currants and cedar dominate with some mid-palate acidity poking through flecked by black olives and spice and tomato paste. The tannins are expertly managed, fine grained and dense but soft. Mid to full-bodied you could serve it now with grilled meats or cheese or cellar through 2016.Prices:| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $41.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Penfolds Cabernet Shiraz Bin 389 2008
South Australia, AustraliaThe 08 Bin 389 has a warm aromatic nose scented with plums, blueberries, capsicum as they say Down Under and coffee and vanilla. The palate is awash in sweet fruit soft round and easy slipping down the gullet. The fruit is rich, still with some acid pushing back, but the oak, black pepper, tobacco and youthful cherry vanilla fruit soothes the finish. Impressive and clearly this wine has been upgraded. Think lamb chops or roast beef.Prices:| BC | $41.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $38.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $38.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $41.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $44.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
South Australia, AustraliaA relatively new addition to the Koonunga Hill line up the first cab appeared in 2002. The fruit is a mix of Barossa Valley and Langhorne Creek all matured for 15 months in old French and American oak. Expect a classic rendering of cabernet sauvignon with savoury, cedar, cassis fruit with some mid-palate acidity poking through and a black cherry, liquorice finish. A sturdy cab for barbecue duty that is ready to drink. Back ribs would our choice.Prices:| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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13 July 2011
87PTS
Frisk Prickly Riesling 2010
Victoria, AustraliaWait a minute didn't you just warn us about goofy names and labels. Yep, but sometimes the wine is better than the label and riesling gets the benefit of the doubt since we have so few to choose from. This one is simple, it's fresh, off-dry and the prickly thing is a bit of unfermented juice put back in the bottle to offer up some natural spritz. Nectarines, lemon sherbet, floral powder, limes you name it it's all here. Chill this down and order Thai food. Did I mention it is only 8 percent alcohol?Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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12 July 2011
90PTS
Poplar Grove Cabernet Franc 2007
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhen BC red wine is clean it usually has all the rest of the ingredients to jumps up my quality chart. Take this cabernet franc for instance. Love the ripe tobacco, cherry jam, vanilla, violet aromas and the similarly ripe, round, rich, dry palate. The tannins are present but fine-grained with savoury, soft varietal-ly correct franc black fruit and sage flavours that go long with finesse. Bravo. You can drink now or keep this for another two years for perfection. T-bone steaks anyone?Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Dão Sul Cabriz Encruzado 2009
Dão, Northern Portugal, PortugalAnother impressive offering from Dão Sul that just screams freshness and drinkability on the nose and immediately on the attack. We love the mineral grapefruit aromas, the finely-tuned, subtle oak additions and its bright, fresh, citrus and almond flavoured palate. Delicious and different, this would be great with an avocado and citrus salad or any summer chop salad. Great value in alternative, modern wine.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Signorello Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe latest Signorello cab contains 12 percent merlot and 8 per cent cabernet franc and rallies around the 2007 vintage a perfect year for cabernet. Made to exacting French standards it still offers a Napa signature dark colour and a warm inviting nose of blueberries and mocha notes. The '07 is slightly more open and evolved than the normal Signorello style with black fruit flavours, more mocha vanilla and pencil lead but not to worry it still practises enough restraint to allow one to finish the bottle, which is exactly what I'm going to do at the end of this review. Then again you can save your bottles and open them in 2017 to even better effect.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| US | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $66.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Fortius Reserva Navarra 2005
Navarra and Basque Country, SpainFortius is an 85/15 blend of tempranillo and cabernet, the latter adding some heft to the mid-palate, the former giving it some suave supple textures. Spicy red fruits mark the nose with along with some vanilla/American oak but not too much. The flavours are similar with more red fruit than dark, fairly bright acidity, a touch of tomato leaf and notes of black pepper in the finish. Lamb chops or shanks would be my choice, if not a Manchego cheese.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Porta Prima 2007
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainPortia Prima Ribera del Duero is made by the Martinez family owners of Bodegas Faustino in Rioja. Portia takes its name from the seventh of the planet Uranus and the Latin for a token offering of gratitude toward the elements in return for a healthy and abundant harvest. The wine is 100 percent tinta fina or tempranillo that spend 15 months in new French barrels followed by 8 more months in bottle. All that said the wine is big and typically full bodied if not a bit brawny with cranberry dark cherry flavours and fine acidity. The finish is soft and warm with flecks of spice and cocoa. Grilled meats with roasted vegetables would be a great pairing and then finish of the bottle with a favourite hard cheese.Prices:| BC | $31.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Chateau Paul Mas Clos des Mures Coteaux du Languedoc 2009
Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceCompletely corked, what a shame the structure is magnificent.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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11 July 2011
92PTS
Poet's Leap Riesling 2010
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesA follow up to last year' effort that was so on track the 2010 is equally refreshing and bright. The nose is perfectly aromatic offering a mineral, citrus and peach aromas with a similar attack on the palate flecked with candied grapefruit and limes. The finish is ripe but with sufficient tartness to produce a juicy racy finish.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| US | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Lucky Penny Shiraz Cabernet Merlot 2009
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaCedar and balsamic notes mixed with blueberries and bitter rooty elements on the nose. The soft warm round sweet palate offers more blueberries and chocolate flavours with hints of balsamic in the finish. Made for smoky barbecued meats. The finish like many of its contemporaries is long, warm sweet and sour.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Red House Wine Co. Cabernet Shiraz 2009
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaSurprisingly Oz like except for the herbal notes. Warm, soft, sweet and acidic and well warm sweet, soft and acidic. Pick a rustic dish like grilled sausages for best results.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Saggi 2007
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesBig open clove, blackberry jam, black cherry, blueberry, cedar, tobacco, meaty, vanilla, saddle leather, floral, barnyard aromas. Rich, round, full, warm, elegant palate with smooth, grainy tannins. Coffee, peppery, blackberry jam, black cherry, orange, coffee, meaty, tobacco, olive, black tea, mocha flavours. Good intensity and concentration. Drink well now but will further improve as it rounds into form through 2014.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| US | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $85.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $44.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Sequel Syrah 2006
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesPeppery, leather, tobacco, mocha, vanilla, blackberry jam, meaty, smoky nose. Ripe, ripe, round, dry, full bodied palate with some grainy tannins and warmth. Spicy, black cherry jam, vanilla, mocha, peppery, meaty, smoky, licorice, savoury flavours with some black tea on the finish. Very slick, rich style with a warm finish. Rounding into shape. Cheap when compared to the likes of Grange and RWT.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| US | $45.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $85.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $75.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Pirouette Red Blend 2005
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesBright black cherry jam with spicy, black raspberry, floral, peppery, mocha, herbal tobacco aromas. Very aromatic and flowery with a supple palate and fully ripe tannins. Spicy, smoky, coffee, black cherry, menthol, cedar, black olive and cardamom. Very warm but has good acidity and intensity. Just coming into its own now. Try this with lamb or a roast beeef. Love the elegance here.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $85.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
| US | $55.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Chester-Kidder Red Blend 2004
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesKudos to Long Shadows "home" winemaker Gilles Nicault for this smoky, cedar, tobacco, black olive, spicy, cherry jam, cassis scented red. Rich and dry with some grainy tannins and grip, it has fine black berry jam, cassis and coffee flavours flecked with orange peel, cedar, liquorice, spice and tobacco leaf. Good flavour intensity if a touch too warm on the finish. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $80.00 | 750ml |
| US | $42.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $47.00 | 750ml |
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10 July 2011
91PTS
Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2009
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe regular Beaucastel Blanc is an 80/15 mix if roussanne and grenache blanc whose vines are between 10 and 40 years old with a dollop of the famed 'Vieilles Vignes' cuvée and other white grapes. Some 30% of wine is fermented in old wood the rest in stainless steel while about half is aged in French oak for 8 months. The nose is an aromatic painting of tangerine rinds and honey. The plate weighty but fresh with big minerality and more tropical orange and pineapple notes. It goes on and on. Delicious wine from a great year. Prices:| AB | $82.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $95.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $103.00 | 750ml |
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96PTS
Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vig 2009
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe 100 percent roussanne "Vieilles Vignes" is 3 hectares in size and the old vines are now 89 years young. Some 30 to 50 percent is fermented in barrels and the remainder in stainless steel vats and similarly 30 to 50 percent is aged in oak and the remainder in stainless steel for about eight months. The colour is light yellow the nose is simply gorgeous with acacia flowers minerals and honey throughout. It is one hundred percent roussanne (brown in French) which gives it the capacity to age for a long time. So fresh and complex it's hard to believe how good this wine can be. According to Thomas Perrin it is a wine to consume up to five years of age or after a decade but not during the intervening years.Prices:| AB | $130.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $160.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2010
South Australia, AustraliaCitrus, green apple skin, pear, honey, light lees and butter aromas. Fresh, crisp, round, slightly soft and hot palate with baked pear, green apple skin, nectarine, butter and grapefruit flavours. A skinnier, cooler style chardonnay, Koonunga Hill is still sourced from multiple districts with significant contributions from South Australia GIs Clare and Padthaway.Prices:| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Vintner's Reserve 2009
California, United StatesButter, honey, baked apple, spicy lees, mango and floral aromas with a touch of citrus. Ripe, fresh, juicy and round with a touch of oiliness and sweetness. Honey, baked pear, pineapple, orange, green apple, butter and spicy lees flavours. A bit warm on the finish but has good fruit, balance and intensity. Best effort yet in a ripe but also cool style. Next will be screwcap.Prices:| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $21.00 | 750ml |
| US | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNutty, spicy, honey, butter, baked green apple, light citrus aromas. Round, fresh, warm, and elegant but soft palate. Very spicy, nutty, honeyed, butterscotch, baked pear and apple flavours. Finish is elegant but sweet and soft.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $33.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $27.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Moon Curser Chardonnay 2010
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, muscat aromas with nectarine, honey and green apple aromas. Crisp, fresh, juicy palate with canned grapefruit, light lees, nectarine, spicy, ginger, soapy floral flavours. A clean, zippy unoaked style.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Township 7 Chardonnay 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen warm, light, buttered lees nose with melon and citrus flecks two. Tropical notes on the palate with pineapple, papaya and canned peach that finishes a bit sweet and sour. Cleaner than last year but we would love to see a slightly drier less syrupy version of this wine that would be better with food.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Oxford Landing Chardonnay 2010
South Australia, AustraliaThe folks at Yalumba now how to make wine and the Oxford Landing Chardonnay 2010 prove they get value wine too. Expect an appealing citrus, apple skin, buttery nose with tiny little notes of bread dough. The attack is round and fresh with tropical peach flavours flecked with honey, butter and apple skin notes. A touch sweet and sour in the finish but otherwise a solid party wine or serve midweek with fishcakes.Prices:| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Snap Dragon Chardonnay 2009
California, United StatesHoney, spicy, baked peach, melon aromas. Fresh, round, somewhat sweet palate with confected fruit, butter, honey, artificial tropical fruit. A very contrived style.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wolf Blass Yellow Label Chardonnay 2010
South Australia, AustraliaGreen apple, peach skin, citrus, light honey and butter aromas. Ripe, round, fresh but somewhat sweet with melon, honey, butter, peach and citrus flavours. Balanced with fruit but finish is somewhat sweet and sour.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Schug Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2008
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesNutty lees, baked pear, honey, vanilla, citrus, nectarine aromas. Rich, round, dry, fresh palate with a touch of oiliness. Honey, orange, pineapple, baked pear, apple, nutty, clove flavours. A bit warm but lots of intensity with good acidity. Good value here.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Poggio Morino Maremma Toscana Rosso 2008
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyLeafy, tobacco, meaty, peppery, pruny, smoky, black cherry aromas. Soft, round, supple palate with spicy, meaty, peppery, savoury, smoky, black cherry flavours. Good solid barbecue red at a fair price.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Lucky Penny Chardonnay Viognier Pinot Grigio 2010
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaLight fresh bright nose of tropical fruits and the palate is similar with plenty of sweet melon, honey and pear flavours. Soft, flat and lacking vitality but may be useful with spicy hot Asian Dishes. Commercial at best. Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Hillside Merlot 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHerbal, tobacco leaf, meaty, spicy, cranberry, black olive, minty, smoky aromas. Fresh, juicy but somewhat sweet and sour with cherry, stewed plum, smoked meat, barnyard, tobacco, herbs and game flavours. Very tart finish despite the sweetness.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Hillside Cabernet Franc 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTobacco leaf, earthy, barnyard, sour cherry, cranberry, slightly smoky aromas. Dry, fresh, somewhat tart palate with light, cedary tannins. Cranberry, soapy floral, herbal, tobacco leaf, mineral, smoky, meaty flavours. Best with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Columbia Crest H3 Merlot Horse Heaven Hills 2000
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesChocolate, vanilla, cherry jam, spicy, menthol, black olive, tobacco, clove aromas. Soft, round, supple palate with some sweetness and light tannins. Cedar, sweet cocoa, chocolate, vanilla bean, tobacco, cherry, plum, dried herb flavours. Warm and oaky confected fruit style with some herbal notes in the finish. Not very food friendly.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
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96PTS
Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2007
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceThe 07 Beaucastel casts a wide swath in the glass. Black in colour and rich in aromas that remind of blueberries and cassis jam with plenty of liquorice and meaty notes but all with a fine balance of acidity. A fine reflection of the hot days and cool nights that marked the vintage. So rich and manly but with finesse and a floral savoury undercurrent that keeps it on balance. You can drink this now but 15 years in the cellar will build something far greater.Prices:| BC | $92.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $90.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $92.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $400.00 | 3000ml |
| AB | $200.00 | 1500ml |
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85PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery The Census Count Chardonnay 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNo surprises here. A commercial grade chardonnay with the emphasis on sweet fruit salad aromas and flavours. Its fresh enough but with a slightly oily, sweet palate and peach, butter, melon flavours. Simple, straight-up chardonnay on the sweet fruit side.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Township 7 Viognier 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLees, matchstick, flat, oxidized.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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09 July 2011
86PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Max Reserva cab is aged four 12 months in 83% French and 17% American oak barrels, 33% of which are new. Expect a classic cab nose of cassis, bay leaves, dried herbs and spices with a touch of balsamic. The palate is dry and supple with more with cassis, liquorice root, and cloves and vanilla. You need a big piece of meat to combat the youthfulness or cellar for another two to three years.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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87PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Syrah (Shiraz) 2009
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Max Reserva is aged twelve months in a 35/65 mix of American and French oak barrels of which 30 per cent are new. The nose is mix of red and black fruit including cranberries, blueberries with dried herbs and sweet spices. The tannins are soft but firm in texture with more black fruit and gamy meaty clove and cinnamon notes in the finish. Best with grilled lamb chops.Prices:| AB | $23.95 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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08 July 2011
90PTS
Thornhaven Gewurztraminer 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNobody does it better in BC or Canada. Every year this fresh, ripe, perfectly-tuned gewürztraminer is well worth hunting down. The combination of freshness, varietal character and ripe citrus, litchi fruit flavours with a strong floral undercurrent are exceptional. Terrific intensity and length. Bravo, again.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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06 July 2011
88PTS
Miquel Torres Cordillera de Los Andes Chardonnay Viognier Reserva Privada Familia Torres 2009
Region del Valle Central, ChileBright gold aromatic nose with notes of grass, melon and green apples. The attack is surprisingly soft and round for normally crisp Limari fruit; perhaps the viognier is at play here. Still the style is more subdued Burgundian even if it needs a bit more acid. The palate is rich and round with warm ripe red apple and melon fruit flecked with apricot.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $27.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Casa Planeta Nero d'Avola Syrah 2009
Sicily, ItalyThe Planeta family has no problem making high end wine but this is the first affordable label we have seen from the Sicilian producer. As you would expect the fruit is warm and spicy with a mix of plums and black fruit that finish smooth and warm. Pizza, chicken, pasta all work. Good value.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Wither Hills Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandMuch like last year that smoky gooseberry, jalapeno nose with an aggressive whiff of tinned asparagus. The palate is fresh and juicy with sweet grapefruit/passion fruit, jalapeno and gooseberry flavours. Classic Marlborough style blended from up to 15 individual vineyard sites in Wairau Valley. Try this with a plate of charcuterie.Prices:| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pascual Toso Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaAromatic nettle guava, kiwi grassy mineral nose that is fresh but somewhat flat on the palate. Soft and round on entry it there is fairly intense guava, grapefruit, mineral flavours that finish dry with a hint of quinine. Try it with clams.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Junta Winery Chile Viognier Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Reserve Momentos 2010
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileWe love to be surprised by wines and Junta did that given how unattractive the name may sound in English speaking markets. Expect an aromatic floral nose with bits violets and tropical fruit notes. The attack is fresh despite a large amount of viognier in the blend; the palate has a slightly candied lemon bent. Mostly good for the price and would be fine with a seafood salad. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Long Neck Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaThis is simple straight-up sauvignon with tropical fruit nuances and watery, citrus, bitter, grassy overtones. Clean fresh and drinkable it delivers for the price.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $10.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandAnother hit from Kevin Judd that rises above the usually aggressive Marlborough sauvignon crowd with finesse and sophistication. The entry is round and ripe with a creamy, mineral acidity that restrains itself. Love the ripe gooseberry and lime flavours flecked with honey and orange. Fine concentration and acidity mark its clean classy finish. The label Greywacke takes its name from the river stones in Judd's vineyard in Rapaura.Prices:| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
White House Wine Co. Riesling Pinot Grigio 2010
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaFresh light, aromatic white with a lime rind fruit salad nose and palate. Easy sipping summer patio wine you can serve solo or with appetizers. Simple clean Ontario white.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Finca La Celia Reserve Chardonnay/Viognier 2009
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaWe are impressed with this 50/50 reserve blend of chardonnay and viognier that see about 30 percent new French oak. The match is soft and harmonious on the palate. The oak subdued and the rich tropical melon/apple fruit persistent but not too fat with a touch of white pepper for complexity. Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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05 July 2011
88PTS
Mapema Malbec Tempranillo 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaI have a feeling this super rich, dense, fruity red will be a big hit in BC. The result of two Argentine wine masters, Pepe Galante (nee Catena) and Mariano di Paola of la Rural/Rutini the pair has chosen a combination that could have legs, malbec and tempranillo. The tempranillo tempers the fat lush malbec fruit and the result is a delicious, smoky, jammy red with a savoury mineral finish. T-bones are the answer here.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cantinian Red Blend Malbec - Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaLove the aromatics on the nose: red fruits and a white pepper. The attack is similar with ripe red fruit cab flavours crashing against sweet, ripe fat lush malbec fruit. The result is a smooth supple blend with a spicy finish. Ripe but still food friendly and definitely affordable. Prices:| BC | $16.80 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Di Majo Norante Sangiovese del Molise 2008
Molise, ItalyA consistently spicy, gamey red wine with smoky, dried cherries and milk chocolate aromas. The attack is soft and supple but with some elevated mid-palate acidity with more peppery, dried cherry, spicy earthy flavours. A rustic style red for pizza or spaghetti Bolognese.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Southern Most Red 2010
San Patricio del Chanar, Neuquén, Patagonia, ArgentinaThe 'end of the earth' winery Southernmost Red is predominately merlot based with some malbec and cabernet for richness and depth. It hails from San Patricio del Chañar in the province of Neuquén Patagonia. The palate is soft round supple and warm with sweet cedar-y black fruit and spicy soft smoky milk chocolate notes throughout. A classic hamburger red at a great price.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.50 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Stomping Ground Crush Pad White 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPast its prime and suffering under the synthetic cork to boot. Judgement is reserved for a newer vintage.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
8th Generation Vineyard Chardonnay Frizzante Unoaked 2009
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI've tasted this wine a couple of times at walkabout but finally got it to open it on the bench where there are far less distractions. This prosecco knockoff hits all the right notes from start to finish. Clean fresh delightfully fizzy. They use the carbon dioxide from the first fermentation and somehow put it back in the bottle before bottling and it works. Juicy fruity clean and fresh with hint of apricots. Novel and tasty what a great idea. Expect more bottles moving forward.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Arrowleaf First Crush White 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFirst Crush is a fruity mix of auxerrois, gewürztraminer and lees-aged pinot gris all grown mid-valley in Okanagan Centre. Predictably aromatic and fresh it has a juicy melon character and a juicy citrus undercurrent that suggest it will pair well with many summer style dishes both spicy and sweet. Love the value here.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Mionetto Prosecco Treviso Brut NV
Veneto, ItalyBright fresh floral nose with bits of peach and honey. The palate is off-dry with more juicy, fresh peach honey almond flavours with a fairly firm, green apple skin finish. A popular, light style bubble many are reaching for as a pre-dinner apéritif. Try it with grill prawns.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $20.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.98 | 750ml |
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04 July 2011
91PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Single Vineyard Carmenére 2009
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, Chile1This is an outstanding carmenère which speaks to what is possible when care is taken. We love the polish and weight the sweet spice and milk chocolate that entices followed by plenty of peppery black fruit and a wonderful, long smooth palate. The finish is like a long sunset with bits of dried tomatoes, spice, tobacco and sweet ripe tannins. The grapes for come from Max V planted in 1992 in the Valle de Aconcagua and are aged in 85% French and 15% American oak barrels, 30% of which were new. Stock up.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Emiliana Novas Limited Selection Chardonnay Marsanne 2010
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAnother winner from Emiliana in this case an organic 60/40 blend of chardonnay/marsanne from the cool Casablanca Valley. The nose and palate is a mix of melons, lemons, pineapples and ripe red apples with bits of honey and apricot; the textures, round and ripe. Perfect for a Thai curry, or grilled fish with a fruit salsa.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Pascual Toso Malbec Reserva Barrancas Vineyards 2009
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaWe remain impressed with the Toso Reserve malbec from its dense dark purple colour to its aromatic nose of smoky liquorice, black cherry jam, vanilla and poultry spice. So ripe and rich on entry it entices you with its supple attack and sweet black cherry jam, plum liquorice and savoury, cedar and chocolate finish. A sexy glossy malbec that manages to over deliver without being simply just too rich and alcoholic.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Finca La Celia Reserve Malbec 2007
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaA simple version of the Argentine grape with a dry savoury attack and palate. Dark fruit flavours and dried herbs are the story here with some slightly gripp-y drying wood tannins in the back end. Nothing a grilled piece of beef or game couldn't tame. Ready to drink. Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.55 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Portillo Pinot Noir 2009
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaAlmost indiscernible as pinot on the nose. The plate is soft and round with spicy cedar lifted red fruits with cran-cherry flavours sprinkled with cinnamon and soft tannins. Simple stuff for luncheon meats and chicken salads. Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Chateau de Caraguilhes 2009
Corbières, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceA delicious certified organically grown 40/25/20/15 blend of syrah/grenache/mourvèdre and carignan all grown within the Corbières. Love the clean, fresh nose of dark fruits with bits of earthy, dried herbs. The plate is awash in smooth black fruits, cherries and blackberries with a rich but balanced finished. Impressive young organic red that will improve in the bottle through 2015. Roasted meats, duck, even grilled chicken will work here. Good value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
The Holy Trinity Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2007
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe goal is a GSM blend reminiscent of southern Rhone reds. The style is definitely rich enough with its warm, earthy, black raspberry nose and generous dollops of vanilla, spice and liquorice notes. The attack is warm and round with more black raspberry and peppery fruit with bits of orange, liquorice and some elevated acidity in the finish. A big warm juicy red for lamb dishes.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $41.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Saumur Lieu-dit Les Pouches Rouge 2009
Saumur, Loire, FranceThere's herbaceous and green cabernet franc and then there is walking the line. This Saumur does the walking and talking. Light and sophisticated it doesn't bowl you over with alcohol but rather it entices with aromas and minerality black fruit ripe red fruits and olives and soft supple finish. Not for everyone but great with grilled sausages or lamb chops. Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Stomping Ground Reserve Pinot Noir 2006
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOne of the newer Okanagan producers (if you don't count some early years when the grapes were sold off) albeit from the northern fringes in Vernon. There is some pinot cherry character pushing through what is a fairly acidic and on the edge volatile red. The textures are soft but this baby needs drinking. Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Summerhill Pyramid Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe fluctuation in quality at Summerhill always baffles us. In this case who could have guess that a cabernet could be, well, so drinkable. Yes its cab with its herbaceous dried fruits nose and firm mid-palate but the blackcurrant fruit flavours are just plentiful enough to hold off the cedar and camphor notes to make this a tasty little red. Roasted meats are all that's required to let this shine at the dinner table.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Moillard Mercurey 2008
Mercurey, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, FranceCertainly an improvement on the '07 version but still a very basic pinot from the Côte Chalonnaise. The nose and palate is a mix of fresh red fruits with spice and compost bits throughout. Dry and firm with light raspberry finish. Balanced and ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
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03 July 2011
88PTS
Chateau Miraval Pink Floyd Rosé 2010
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceI love the style of this wine with its light, ethereal, fruity characters and yeasty, dry mid-palate. The colour is picture perfect pale coral; the attack a mix of pear and ripe red apple but it finishes dry and crisp and alive. Pick your favourite al fresco dishes and just add this wine. Delicious rosé for the patio.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Le Saint André Rosé 2009
Vin de Pays du Var, Vin de Pays de Provence, Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceMarginally darker coral colour with a flatter fruit and wet stone. Soft succulent entry with orange and ripe red apple flecks and a soft finish. A slightly richer, warmer version of rose that will be better with food than sipping solo. Any sort of corn and seafood salad would be a good match.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Domaine Houchart Côtes de Provence Rosé 2010
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, France.This rosé has a more salmon skin colour and a slightly stronger red fruit aspect on the nose. The attack is sweeter and heavier than most with a more commercial burnt caramel sugar finish. Try this with spicy Asian duck or beef dishes or even fresh fruit tarts for dessert.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Brotte Les Jeannes Rosé Côtes de Provence 2008
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceLight, breezy, aromatic notes of strawberry and watermelon with minerality. Pleasantly dry with bits of lime rind, rhubarb and just a feint hint of earthiness calling for grilled prawns or potato/chicken salad.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2010
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceStrawberry and marzipan notes greet you on the nose. The attack is fresh and juicy and frankly delicious. Expect a subtle mix of strawberries, lemons and rhubarb and watermelon - none too strong to dominate but as a group they invite you into the glass and delight the palate. Elegant and expressive.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Les Quatre Tours Signature Côte de Provence Rosé 2010
Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceDelicate light floral nose with hints of red fruits and berries. The attack is fresh and light with bits of cranberries, watermelon, strawberries, citrus and more floral undertones. Round and easy sipping but with enough weight and structure to stand up to ham or chicken if need be. A gorgeous garden party wine or even better for a late afternoon on date on the patio.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cantinian Malbec 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaSurprisingly attractive for the price and what is going on at this end of the malbec market. Fresh and spicy with a firm peppery undercurrent and dark plum flavours. The tannins are light and easily absorbed by most any grilled meat entrée. Good value.Prices:| BC | $16.80 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Beyerskloof Synergy Cape Blend 2007
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaAnother year and another edition of the smoky, saddle leather, leafy cassis, peppery, resin, smoked meat aromas that mar the nose of this wine. The palate is similar with bits of burnt rubber, barnyard and black cherry fruit. A round, warm, smoky, peppery red with elevated acidity and a hint of Brettanomyces. Adequate at best for the price but mostly this is just an old fashioned red wine.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Finca Flichman Cabernet Sauvignon Roble 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaSimple light peppery nose with bits of cherry, savoury red fruits. The attack is soft with elevated acidity and flavours of cedar, cassis mocha and cedar bark flavours. Simple red wine for the barbecue.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Finca La Celia Reserve Pinot Noir 2007
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThe pinot noir boom has stemmed a lot of wines that never should have been made concocted and this is one of them. So green and herbaceous this pinot never really ripened and leaves you with a resiny aftertaste in the mouth. A back to the vineyard.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Portillo Malbec 2009
Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaThis is a very soft, easy-sipping malbec with ripe round dark fruit aromas and flavours. Look for plums and milk chocolate on what is a balanced if friendly commercial palate.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ringbolt Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Western Australia, AustraliaLove the varietal cabernet character here. Red fruits and cranberries dominate the savoury nose. The attack is rich and open the tannins small grained yet with some grip. The palate is awash in deep dark brooding cab fruit with bits of briar and tannin in the back end. Grill some steaks and mushrooms for best results here.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Cabernet Merlot 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaClassic BC red with its savoury cassis nose, coffee grounds and black sage aromas. The attack is elegant with dry, earthy, lean red fruit flavours reminiscent of cranberries mixed with black olives, resin and more coffee grounds. The finish is firm and dry. Perfect for grilled flank steak and /or other barbecued meats. Not as austere as previous editions. Good value.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.45 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Carmen Sauvignon Blanc Gran Reserva 2010
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChilePassion fruit, guava, gooseberry, lemon grass, grapefruit rind aromas. Fresh, crisp, elegant and dry with finesse. Grapefruit, jalapeno, gooseberry, lemon, passion fruit flavours. Very solid style with some delicacy. Perfect summer shellfish winePrices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
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02 July 2011
80PTS
Summerhill Pyramid Winery Pinot Noir Organic Wine 2007
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight herbal, twiggy, cedar bark nose. The entry is soft but with little or no pinot character. The palate is identical with more emphasis on the peppery, herbaceous and sour green tomato flavours. Disappointing.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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01 July 2011
86PTS
Township 7 Reserve 7 2006
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaReserve 7 is blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc with a dusting of malbec and a speck of syrah. Lots of green smoky oak with tobacco and leather notes. The palate is similarly flavoured with dark red fruits but the wine is awkward and rustic. The duelling French and American oak doesn't appear to help the balance. Age it three years and serve with grilled meats for optimum results.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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August 2011