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Tastings: September 2011
26 September 2011
87PTS
Pentâge Winery Gamay Noir 2010
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPentâge continues to impress me with the finesse and styling of its wine. Case in point is this gamay. The nose is clean and fresh with spicy red berry notes. The attack is supple but mouth-filling. It's looking a little pinot-like thanks to fresh black cherry fruit finish. Classy.Prices:| BC | $19.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Chorus 2010
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaStoneboat has a firm fresh handle on this blend and have one of the best aromatic blends in the valley. It's the minerality that makes this odd-ball mix of grapes: pinot gris, pinot blanc, viognier, kerner, müller-thurgau and schönburger work. Just like last year its citrus, red apple, lime rind flavours flecked with peach make it a delight to sip.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Château de Valcombe Costières de Nîmes 2009
Costières de Nîmes, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceValcombe is a Costières de Nîmes blend of syrah and grenache that delivers a lot of flavour for the price. Expect a meaty raspberry nose with hints of liquorice and spice. The entry is soft and juicy with more meaty black raspberry flavours and a pleasant soft, simple, finish. A solid red for the by-the-glass wine list or serve liberally with hamburgers mushrooms and stews. Good value.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Can Blau Kia Montsant 2009
Montsant, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainThe Cellar Can Blau Kia is a delicious mix of samsó or carignane along with syrah and garnacha grown on old granite soils in Montsant, a sub-zone of Catalonia. Three months of French oak seems enough to smooth out the edges and bring the grapes into a fleshy, ripe coalition of flavours. The combination of spice, chocolate and dark fruits with easy tannins make this a winner. Love the value.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gabriel Meffre Plan de Dieu Cotes du Rhone Villages Saint Mapalis 2009
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceAnother delicious '09 from the Rhone. Love the spicy red fruit nose with traces of dried herbs and pepper. The palate is similar with dense, rich fruit, bits of chocolate, rich but smooth tannins. Drink now with lamb chops or hold five years for even better results. Gabriel Meffre established his company in Gigondas in 1936 and has launched the Laurus, Louis Bernard, La Châsse, Fat Bastard and Wild Pig brands. They own over 2,000 acres in the southern Rhone along with numerous grower contracts. Plan de Dieu or literally the "Plain of God," has been planted since the late Middle-Ages and was recently restored by Meffre. In 2005 it was officially recognised with "AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages" classification.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Intrigue Ten (10) 2010
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntrigue '10,' a reference to the vintage, is an unusual mix of riesling, gewürztraminer and muscat Canelli. The classic BC aromatic white is a mesh of honey, pineapple and grapefruit on the nose and palate with bits of citrus and litchi in the juicy almost tart finish. Serve this creamy seafood or pasta dishes.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Quails' Gate Late Harvest Totally Botrytis Affected Optima 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOptima rises above its station once infected by botrytis. The sweet honeyed orange rind, apricot and floral nose comes with a twist of complexity. The palate remains fresh and inviting the flavours elegant and intense with enough sugar acid tension to keep it all interesting. A delicious dessert style wine you can serve solo, with chocolate and or nutty cakes.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $30.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Argento Reserva Bonarda 2010
Mendoza, ArgentinaBonarda always has plenty of colour. In this case it comes with a fresh, floral raspberry scent. The flavour is similar with a savoury note and jammy texture. The finish shows a touch of vanilla from its ageing in American oak. The fruit is grown at Rivadavia, Mendoza at 600-700m above sea level.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Nik Weis St. Urbans-Hof Riesling Ockfener Bockstein Kabinett 2009
Mosel, GermanyHoney, green apple, guava, clover, floral, grassy, peach and wax aromas. Fresh, crisp, juicy, elegant palate with good concentration. Waxy, floral, green apple, nectarine, clover, guava and lime flavours. Delicate, juicy, crisp style with the ability to age 2-10 years but delicious now. A very fine Kabinett.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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25 September 2011
88PTS
Cooralook Shiraz 2007
Victoria, AustraliaClassic cedar/herby and blueberry fruit nuances on the nose and palate. The attack is soft and round with cedar-y, herbal peppery fruit up front and darker spicy fruit flavours underneath. A solid effort here that should improve in bottle for a year or two.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Giorgio & Gianni Negroamaro 2008
Salento, Puglia, ItalyA two time winner at the Wine Access International Value Wine Awards this negroamaro way over delivers. Look for rich plummy fruit with bits of barnyard, coffee and oak. The attack ids soft, with more plums, spice and chocolate with a fine undercurrent of acidity to keep it fresh. Bolognese anyone.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Grand Reserve 2009
Monterey - Santa Barbara, California, United StatesCorked, try another.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 750ml |
| US | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Hahn Winery Chardonnay 'Nicky Hahn' 2009
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesTypically rich and satiny chardonnay form Santa Lucia Highlands. Intense spicy rich round with baked apple, pineapple, peach and overripe pear fruit flavours and creamy baked apple, butterscotch finish with a dollop of vanilla. Tasty upfront but a bit over the top and sweet in the back end. Would easily tame a roasted turkey and savoury dressing.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Hahn Winery Pinot Noir 'Nicky Hahn' 2009
Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesLots of alcohol underpins this smoky tea leaf spice pinot with a silky undercurrent. The fruit is red but ripe with floral rhubarb, smoke and spice throughout. Almost elegant. Still showing some oak but it has the rooty Monterey style that can be attractive. Drink now with roasted chicken or duck dishes.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Beringer Chardonnay 2009
Napa Valley, California, United StatesWe really like the evolution of this wine now a bright, fresh, clean, mineral/citrus affair that belies its Napa Valley origins. Expect a creamy mid palate and persistent, ripe red apple fruit flecked with a nutty leesy undertones and spicy orange flecks. Excellent value. First class.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $27.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $30.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blasted Church Pinot Noir 2009
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe all mid-valley, Skaha fruit comes of two blocks and is pressed and aged in French oak for nine months. At this ppoint a small portion of carbonic macerated fruit is added to the blend to reduce tannins and boost fruit. The palate is soft and spicy with dried strawberries, mushrooms and spice flavours before a short dry finish. An okay pinot that under delivers for the price.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Serendipity Pinot Noir 2007
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSerendipity ages its pinot in older wood. The style is soft, the nose spicy with resiny, meaty, rhubarb, forest floor undertones and with a fairly dry mid-palate. There is a modicum of red fruits on the palate but the finish is dry and spicy. Needs a fatty duck dish to be at its best or a mushroom risotto. A slightly cleaner version going forward would be welcome. Good potential. Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Spierhead Chardonnay 2010
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA north south blend that grabs your attention on the nose. Love the vibrant, green apple notes and minerality on the nose before the French oak and the toasted nutty characters begin to overwhelm the fruit. I like this wine but it remains component-like on the palate and needs some time to pull itself together into a more cohesive mix of flavours. That said erring on the side of sophistication is always good. Try this with some brie for best results.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
J Vineyards Cuvée 2002 Brut 2002
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesOnly 900 cases were made giving you an idea how artisanal the J bubble is. Hand harvested, each lot is fermented and kept separated until blending. The wine is aged on tirage for five years at the winery before it is hand disgorged and topped up for another six months in bottle. Expect a vibrant nose of white fruits pear and peaches with bits of spice and a toasted nut character and creamy finish. The blend is 49/49/2 chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier. Perfect with cheese.Prices:| US | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Luigi Bosca Brut Nature NV
Mendoza, ArgentinaBrut Nature is a blend of fruit off several vineyards, average age 40 years, situated at about 800 meters. The mix is 60/40 chardonnay/pinot noir. The colour is light and bright the nose reserved with bits of green apple skin and almonds. The palate is on the lemony yeasty green apple side with dry tight finish. Super dry and totally natural best with food.Prices:| BC | $29.95 | 750ml |
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23 September 2011
89PTS
Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut NV
Sonoma County, California, United StatesAlways fresh and always reliable the GF Brut is has a wonderful mix of red fruits on the nose with hints of apple and minerality. The attack is crisp and rich with toasted nut, cherry, citrus, peach and cherry flavours with a hint of honey and baked apple on the finish. A great wine for tapas.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $27.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $30.00 | 750ml |
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22 September 2011
90PTS
Dr. Loosen Wehlener Urziger Wurzgarten Kabinett 2009
Mosel, GermanyÜrziger Würzgarten is grown on red volcanic soil an exceptional deposit of 200 to 300 meters of decomposed lava over the blue slate. We love its light yellow colour, golden apple aromas and rich, nervy attack full of big fruit flavours. A terrific riesling on the slightly heavier fruity style with spicy, herbal, cardamom notes and a bit of Christmas cake.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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20 September 2011
92PTS
John Duval Eligo 2008
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaEligo '08 is made from a selection of vineyards in Eden and Barossa Valley. The fruit is barrel aged in 80 percent new French oak which adds a level of sophistication to what could be a rambunctious red. Winemaker John Duval a former Penfolds chief winemaker who was responsible for the Oz icon red Grange says Eligo is the pinnacle of his production. It is 100 percent shiraz that is made in a restrained manner. In 2008 it appears less opulent and grainier in texture with some pronounced acidity than the 2006 (there was no 2007 made). In short less hedonistic which should attract a crowd of its own.Prices:| BC | $110.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
John Duval Eligo 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaEligo is a vineyard selection, one in Eden Valley and two from Barossa Valley, and few are better versed at that process than winemaker John Duval a former Penfolds chief winemaker who was responsible for the Oz icon red Grange. Eligo is the pinnacle at John Duval and it gets a full strapping of 2/3 new French oak. In 2006 it has the structure and the opulence to turn heads at any tasting but it's the elegance of this wine that surprises. So rich and plump it is a delight to drink now but that savoury, red fruit will keep for a decade. A new Australia? Decant for 30 minutes for best effect and serve it with the likes of lamb or beef.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
John Duval Entity Shiraz 2008
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaWhat difference a year makes. The '08 Entity is a blockbuster Barossa shiraz whose aim is to please. We love the rich savoury black fruit and liquorice lace red. Big and sweet it has a delicious hedonistic style yet with a fine balance of fruit and spice and some big white pepper undertones. There's a big potential here to cellar this wine and it will only get better.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $55.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
John Duval Entity Shiraz 2007
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe '07 Entity is a slightly lesser version than the previous offerings. Still all Barossa but in this case with a little less vibrant fruit and some creeping acidity that takes away from its hedonistic style. The wine spends 17 months in French oak hogsheads. Expect a lifted, fairly alcoholic red with meaty juicy tarry boysenberry notes and plenty of soft, vanilla laced textures in the finish where the acidity pokes through. Good if not a great bottle with harmony but may be a bit too easy drinking for the price. Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $55.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
John Duval Plexus 2008
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaMostly fine weather until March, then a heat wave with several days over 35C marks a vintage of two halves in '08. For all its foibles the '08 is sweeter than the '07 looking more like the magnificent '06. Opulence is one word that jumps out of the glass but with ample tannins and weight. The grenache especially leaps from the glass but the classy oak treatments and big spice in the back end tends to settle it all down. Winemaker John Duval likes this wine's ageing potential thinking it will be drinkable in two to four years but not likely to peak for another seven to ten years.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
John Duval Plexus 2007
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe '07 Plexus red is a bit more rugged than its stylish '06 showing more resin and liquorice fruit with a fairly, savoury almost leafy forest floor flavour on the mid-palate. There is plenty of bright acidity that works well with the fruit to keep the wine fresh and focused on the palate Only 10 percent of the wood, all French, is new, which is in keeping with winemaker John Duval's preference for the red fruit flavours whenever possible. Duval prefers the SGM blend to the GSM thus Plexus Red because it is less confected by the grenache fruit thus the blend is a 50/30/20 mix of shiraz grenache and mourvèdre with the latter two grapes coming off old bush vines.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato 2008
Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyThe baby brother of Guado al Tasso, Il Bruciato is grown on the Tuscan coast some 60 miles southwest of Florence, in an area known as the Maremma. The '08 is a 50/30/10 blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah with ten percent other grapes. It is the savoury fragrance of this wine that makes it so inviting on the nose and while it's ripe, it is more of a red fruit red wine with violets than a bruiser cabernet sauvignon. Balance and finesse with spicy, savoury red fruits and milk chocolate. Again, impressive for the price.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $28.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $32.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Evening Land Vineyards Blue Label Bourgogne Chardonnay 2009
Burgundy, FranceExpectations are high for this project that spans Burgundy, Oregon and California. The French wines are under the purvey of famed Burgundian Dominique Lafon and the introductory blue label is impressive. There is unexpected intensity of flavour one never associates with Bourgogne. Better yet is the subtle white flower nose, ripe red apple flavours and perfectly tuned minerality and acidity. This is textbook chardonnay that meets all expectations for the price. Well done.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Le Jau de Jau Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Cotes de Gascogne, Sud-Ouest, FranceJaja is the local dialect for house wine or everyday wine. In this case it is a lip smacking grassy fresh citrus sauvignon that sees no wood and is released after six months in stainless steel. White flowers and lemon green leaf and refreshing tart acidity make it the perfect oyster wine. In fact, any shellfish will do. A dry white for connoisseurs and it is good value too.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Lan Rioja Crianza 2006
Rioja, SpainThe '06 Crianza is 100 per cent tempranillo is aged in American and French oak barrels for 12 months followed by some months in the bottle. Typically the tannins are lightish, the textures round. The fruit is a mix of black cherry and earth, bright acidity with a twist of florality. The perfect chicken/lamb stew wine for the fall.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Blasted Church Merlot 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntense spicy, lifted fruit nose with bits of black olive, barnyard and black cherry notes. The attack is rich and smooth with round almost fat black fruit, liquorice, ripe olive and saddle leather with just a whiff of barnyard. Solid red if a bit pricey.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Santa Rita Merlot Reserva 2008
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileElegant open bay leaf and dry roasted herbs on the nose with a hint of cherries. Almost identical palate with soft warm red fruits and a leafy, sagebrush, tobacco, vanilla finish. Could be an interesting pizza red especially if there's cheese to ameliorate the resin and the dried herbs.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Secco Bertani Valpolicella Valpantena 2008
Veneto, ItalyAfter a disastrous 06 the Secco-Bertani '08 appears back to normal. The blend is a mix of corvina Veronese 70%, rondinella 25% and molinara 5%. Some 75% of the wine is aged in large Slavonian oak casks, 25% in French oak barriques for about 18 months. Expect a sweet, round, smoky savoury fruit nose and palate with a smooth, silky texture and cherry jam flavours. Valpantena is the smallest region in Valpolicella with the coolest, darkest soils.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ricossa Antica Casa Barbera d'Asti 2009
Piedmont, ItalyThis wine seems to get better every year. The nose is fresh and bright with vibrant red plums, liquorice, meat and pepper/floral highlights. The entry is soft and the textures rich and dense with pleasant acidity. Love the juicy, black cherry fruit with bits of almond and resin and ripe kirsch flavours. Modern clean and fun to drink. Good value.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Intrigue Merlot 2010
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNervous acidity and freshness mark the palate of this merlot. Dried herbs, dried tomato and bits of sour cherries all combine on the palate of this simple red with a medium short dry finish. Try this with grilled flank steak or a meaty pizza. The fruit comes off Trout Creek vineyards in Mid-valley Summerland.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Merlot 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSoft cedar-y, black cherry aromas with bits of dried herbs, tobacco leaf and earthy green tea aromas. Despite a soft almost sweet entry the tannins immediately swarm across your palate quickly drying out this red. Look for a spicy warm black olive, dried tomato and tobacco flavours with a warm resiny burn in the finish. Needs a big juicy steak at this stage ar five more years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
John Duval Plexus 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaDuval prefers the SGM blend to the GSM thus Plexus Red because it is less confected by the grenache fruit thus the blend is a 50/30/20 mix of shiraz grenache and mourvèdre with the latter two grapes coming off old bush vines. The shiraz provides a rich blackberry backbone and now a few years down the road a wonderful open aroma of rich black fruits and spice all with a savoury edge. The grenache is old as is the mataro but the fruit is clean and rich. A delicious style with a warm milk chocolate undercurrent it perfectly illustrates what was a lovely warm vintage with a dry summer.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
John Duval Entity Shiraz 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaJohn Duval's 'Entity' shiraz is all about Barossa Valley shiraz. Smoky bacon, white pepper, rich and opulent it is loaded with liquorice, vanilla and meaty, tobacco, garrigue, celery salt and plum, blackberry aromas. Rich, ripe, round and supple its warm velvety palate come with balanced acidity and a huge whack of blackberry/blueberry fruit, dark chocolate and savoury notes from the oak. The tannins are high quality and chalky with after ageing in 33 percent, 300-litre new French oak hogshead. Terrific styling and delicious drinking.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $55.00 | 750ml |
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18 September 2011
90PTS
John Duval Plexus Marsanne Rousanne Viognier 2010
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaThe first Plexus White was released in 2010. The blend is 62 marsanne from Marananga, 22 roussanne from Kalimna and 12 per cent viognier from Eden Valley. Free run pressed and cold settled juice give some early complexity while some of the marsanne and viognier was barrel fermented and aged in barrel for seven months and only seven per cent was new. The wine is surprisingly fresh and bright but with fine structure and acidity. Expect a stone fruit palate with orange flecks and with a touch of nuttiness on the finish. Stylish and modern it is picked in early March to keep the alcohol in check at 13 percent.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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17 September 2011
89PTS
Beringer Pinot Noir 2009
Napa Valley, California, United StatesOak Knoll ranch just north of the town of Napa seems an unlikely source for pinot noir but it's close enough to San Pablo Bay to benefit from a cooling effect. This wine is made from a mix of Burgundian clones from Napa and other lots from Carneros. The nose is suitably earthy with a cool Rhubarb and forest floor undertones. The palate is dry with dark, sour cherry nuances, spice and a smooth silky finish. Impressive styling for Napa pinot and very food friendly.Prices:| BC | $49.95 | 750ml |
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16 September 2011
94PTS
Continuum 2007
Napa Valley, California, United StatesYear three of Continuum Estates received a 20 percent dose of Pritchard Hill fruit but it is still predominately an Oakville cabernet. The blend is a 60/22/18 mix of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and petit verdot. The nose youthful with a real wild blackberry character with big pepper and spice and a strong savoury, black olive and mineral undercurrent. The tannins are beautiful managed perhaps surprising to some younger Napa wine drinkers but the finesse and elegance of winemaker Tim Mondavi is all over this wine. Production is growing with the '07 sitting at about 1500 cases or about a quarter of the projected ceiling. Just a baby but I expect it will age gracefully like most Mondavi wines well into 2025. Prices:| BC | $185.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $190.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Continuum 2006
Napa Valley, California, United StatesI recently re-tasted the 2006 Continuum (year two of the project) as part of a mini vertical including the 2007 and 2008 and if you have this wine in your cellar consider yourself very lucky. It has lost a lot of that puppy fat that young Napa cabernets can possess and it is beginning to settle in to its own showing amazing elegance and restraint for Napa Valley. The palate is focused, even linear with ripe black fruit and dense sweet tannins balanced by just enough acidity and tannin to keep the wine form exploding its britches. Savoury and harmonious it reminds mean of some of those great Bolgheri reds. The latest chapter in the Mondavi saga, it has Tim's signature winemaking all over and while this is still all ToKalon fruit we can' t wait to see what the mountain fruit of Pritchard Hill will be bring to this red that is seemingly destined for greatness.Prices:| BC | $185.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $190.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Continuum 2008
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe latest Continuum is dramatically different than its predecessors. The '08 blend is a 71/17/7/5/ cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc/ petit verdot/merlot. Why the merlot you ask, because it was so damned good according to Tim Mondavi. This is one sleek, linear, mountain red with a stubborn streak of minerality and a pureness of fruit. Now with 70 percent Pritchard Hill fruit Continuum is beginning to look like the wine the Mondavi's envisioned when they move to Pritchard Hill in the eastern hills above St. Helena alongside the likes of Colgin, Bryant Family, David Arthur, Chappellet, Long Vineyards and a host of other famous names. All French oak and precision winemaking have yielded a fabulous, glossy sophisticated red for the decades ahead. Production now up to 2200 cases heading for 6000.Prices:| BC | $185.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $190.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery Birch Canoe Pinot Blanc 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAnother grassy, gooseberry, green apple skin white with a rounder soft mid-palate attack. The palate is sweet up front with red apple peachy fruit and bits of bitter grapefruit rind in the finish. A simple commercial rendition that reflects its price.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Est Est Est di Montefiascone 2010
Lazio, ItalySome of you of a certain age will remember the Bigi Est Est Est that used to dominate the market prior to the explosion of New World wines. This edition from Falesco eschews the cardboard and flavourless aspects for a bright fresh, citrus, mineral, peachy white that represents some crazy value in this market. Simply prepared pasta or chicken would be a fine match.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Wild Goose Mystic River Pinot Blanc 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a lovely floral mineral "German" edition of this wine bringing elegance and style to the category. Expect afresh zippy attack with citrus and butter mixing with juicy, mineral, green apple flavours and a hint of orange. Well done. Serve with halibut and a fruit salas.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Canapi Grillo 2010
Sicily, ItalyAromatic tropical and refreshing all in one gulp this grillo smells of the sea and should likely be served with seafood to best effect. And amazing citrus flavoured white that should work well with a variety of West Coast cuisine.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Le Vieux Pin Petit Blanc Feenie's Blend 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI get nervous when restaurants and chefs start making wine as they should if I ever start making wine. It may be one thing to know what you want but it's a lot tougher to make it happen in the bottle. This fruit salad affair likely had noble beginnings something fresh and crisp that works with food, maybe even Alsace-like because for some reason sommeliers love Alsace wines even if consumers avid them like the plague. The Viognier and muscat make it a bit too sweet and heavy to light and refreshing and the sauvignon and chardonnay are a bit too bitter and rindy. Best with spicy food.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blasted Church Chardonnay Musqué 2010
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaExpect a fresh bright green apple, citrus, mineral nose that follows directly onto the palate with more crisp green apple lime and apricot skin flavours with a dash of minerality. Clean if a bit simple but would be fine with most West Coast seafood dishes or sushi.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Blasted Church Hatfield's Fuse 2010
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlways solid this spicy, floral white has a bright fruit salad nose with bits of citrus and rosé petals and most of that carries through on the palate. Look for citrus and peach flavours with a lime rind undercurrent. A summer sipper, you can pull back out whenever turkey is on the menu.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Barefoot Moscato NV
Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Barefoot moscato is much more intensely muscat with fine underlying acidity to balance its sweet fruit flavours. Look for a juicy fresh apricot peach entry with lemon lime and orange in the back end. Try it with a spicy hot pot or an Indian curry for best results.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2009
Campo de Borja, Aragon, SpainIt's difficult not to like this exuberant red wine and its fresh, spicy, floral fragrant nose. The attack is warm and spicy showing some hefty alcohol mixed with a touch of Brettanomyces and fairly rustic tannins. The palate is awash in black pepper, black cherries and black olives with along dry firm finish. A bit Rhone like but still very much its own wine. If the Brett remains in check it should be a great bottle in five years time.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Quails' Gate Pinot Gris 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDelicious ripe fresh with a twist of lees describes the first ever pinot gris we tasted by Quails' Gate. Okay it's a bit sauvignon blanc-like but the outcome is still an eminently drinkable slightly sweet, fruity, fresh style white wine that consumers will enjoy with or without food. Love intensity and citrus theme tempered by dusting of lees in the finish. Wine Club members only. What a shame.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Farmer Robert Grenache Noir 2010
FranceFarmer Robert is a bit kitschy for the French but make no mistake this grenache is a winner for the price. Ripe and round its intense raspberry fruit aromas and flavours lay over a rustic earthy tobacco scented red that will disappear if you leave it on the kitchen table at any house party. Try it with grilled meats for best effect.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Sutter Home Moscato 2009
California, United StatesThe good news is Sutter home has been making moscato for 50 years so at least the vines are old. Like most muscat it's the nose that draws you in with its intoxicating perfumed followed by a very sweet palate of grapey/peachy melon and strawberry fruit flavours but at least with some decent acidity to keep it fresh. You can drink this on the patio any hot day but it might be fun to experiment with hot or spicy food for best results. A fun wine for sure.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Bousquet Malbec Reserve Organic Wine 2010
Tupungato, Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaRich, spicy and savoury and with a hint of carrot mark the nose of this malbec that comes with a supple, sweet if slightly warm (alcoholic) palate. Classic malbec for this price range and one of the few made organic. Solid value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Noble Ridge Mingle 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe fermentation for Mingle is halted before the end to better save the rich honey characters of the pinot gris and make it a little more friendly on the patio. It still has the classic tropical fruit nuances but with a touch of sweetens that allows it to be used as an aperitif before dinner while your friend "mingle" or even better to knock down the heat and spice on your favourite curries. Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Noble Ridge Pinot Grigio 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThere's a slightly oxidative character to this wine, perhaps from its short stint in French oak that will no doubt appeal to some. Over all it has a ripe pear character with bits of nettle, grass and guava. Pan Asian dishes and seafood pasta dishes would be affine match.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Junta Winery Chile Carménère Grand Reserve 2009
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThere is better intensity here and more styling as you would expect at this price. The Curicó fruit is darker and deeper with more black characters and lots of round ripe fruit on the mid-palate and through the finish. Chocolate black fruit and pepper favours with a dash of spice make this perfect with flank steak.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Junta Winery Chile Cabernet Franc Grand Reserve 2009
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileYou don't see a lot cabernet franc coming out of Chile but this one is worth looking at. The nose is classic with intense leafy tobacco notes but with a background of dark sweet fruit nuances. Expect black cherries and dried herbs and a savoury minty undercurrent throughout the finish. Turkey, roasted chicken and even spaghetti Bolognese would be a good match. Tasty.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Junta Winery Chile Carménère Seleccion 2010
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileA pleasant leafy carmenère style nose with red fruits and pepper in the background. The attack is soft and warm with more dried and crushed leaf characters with black cherry, resin and plum fruit nuances. Simply easy to drink and affordable.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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15 September 2011
90PTS
Shingleback Shiraz (White Label) 2007
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaThe Shingleback Vineyard is in the Willunga Basin at the southern end of McLaren Vale less than 5 kilometers from the ocean. A mix of clones grown on both dark and light soils over limestone leads to a big rich generous red with ripe red and black fruit aromas with floral notes and some obvious minerality. The palate is similar with fairly tight, spicy, resiny black fruit, soft tannins and fresh acidity poking through the back. The classic match is lamb.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Red Knot by Shingleback 2010
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaMuch like our last review Red Knot reminds us of shiraz form a decade ago and that is a good thing. They are made to be hedonistic, to drink now. The attack is soft and spicy with juicy rounded harmonious black and blueberry fruit with bits of coffee and mocha. Fine quality for the price and would be perfect with grilled sausages or steaks.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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11 September 2011
87PTS
Arboleda Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, Chile This Arboleda blanc hails from Aconcagua where you might guess the climate is too warm but not at Chilhué in Aconcagua Costa where the cold Pacific Ocean, only 12 kilometers away, engineers a sauvignon blanc with minerality, dried herbs, lemongrass, gooseberry and citrus aromas and flavours. Oysters or simply prepared fish dishes are the answer. Good value.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
The Doctor's Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandLow alcohol wine can be scary thing until you think the Mosel. In this case Kiwi Dr. John Forrest has nailed the concept with this unbelievably tasty little sauvignon bottled at 9.5 percent's. Carefully select clones yield a vibrant ripe, okay a touch sweet, with lime and lemongrass aromas and fresh passion fruit flavours that finish long and soft. Pick you favourite patio spot and order a bottle of this immediately. Delicious friendly easy-drinking style at a great price.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Hillside Muscat Ottonel 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA Hillside specialty that should not be overlooked. So fresh and bright with beautiful floral, ginger, orange and spiced honey aromas. The plate is equally compelling with bright mineral streaked apricot flavours. What a delicious, balanced, aromatic wine.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Cathedral Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Coastal Region, South AfricaOpen black cherry dried herbs and rooty, liquorice notes with bits of vanilla and cedar. More Euro style than say California or Oz. The attack is dry with medium weight tannins and more cedar-y herby black fruit. The finish is dry with some green pepper undertones. Old style.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Robertson, Breede River Valley, South AfricaMedium dark with a touch of amber at the edge. The nose is a classic mix of cedar, black liquorice and crushed raspberries. The attack is warm and spicy with dark earthy, forest floor and black cherry fruit flavours with a dollop of vanilla and oak. Solid if ordinary cabernet best with pizza or meaty spaghetti dishes.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Piola Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Suisun Valley, California, United StatesThis is straight-forward simple California cabernet with soft spicy resiny fruit aromas and flavours. The tannins are mild, the finish dry. Try this with beef kabobs or a roast beef sandwich.Prices:| BC | $14.90 | 750ml |
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10 September 2011
89PTS
Graceland Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaI'm always delighted and a little bit surprised by South African reds that don't have that pronounced burnt rubber on the nose. Similar to last year it has an attractive cran-cherry, chocolate, smoky black fruit nose and flavour profile and all with elegance. A stylish red wine with a supple long finish flecked with acidity.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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09 September 2011
87PTS
Contado Mankas 2005
Suisun Valley, California, United StatesIf you like your cabernet mature this wine is for you. Expect a soft open dry red with bits of blackberry spice and bell peppers. On the downside now you can drink this tonight with a grilled steak or spaghetti Bolognese.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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05 September 2011
87PTS
Noble Ridge Chardonnay 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThere is plenty of potential here with big, floral, nectarine skin aromas and a good whack of lees and brioche on the nose. The palate is full and oaky with baked apple a touch of marzipan, citrus leesy flavours and fresh acidity throughout. A ready-to-drink, slightly older style, chardonnay that would be perfect with crab or halibut.Prices:| BC | $23.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bellingham The Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2010
Coastal Region, South AfricaThis is my second encounter with this delicious chenin made form old, dry farmed, low yielding bush vines and aged in 50% new French oak. The nose is bright and stylish with rich pear, honey, green apple notes and floral undertones. The attack is crisp but the French oak kicks in mid-palate along with vanilla, butter and baked green apple flavours flecked with honey and orange notes. Best served well chilled with spicy Asian dishes.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
The Land of Hope Chenin Blanc 2009
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaThe wine stems from old bush vines grown in the Helderberg area of Stellenbosch. Ocean facing you can taste the minerality in the wine. Loves the fresh flinty leesy, Burgundian feel of this chenin. Perfect with grilled salmon. Owner Alex Dale is an impressive wine grower working in South Africa so when he says the Land of Hope Trust project, launched in 2007, was initiated against the background of many "smoke and mirrors" projects purporting to uplift Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) we believe him. In this case the direct and sole beneficiaries of this Trust are the previously disadvantaged individual employees of Winery of Good Hope and their children and dependents now back to the wine. Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Elgin, Overberg, South AfricaElgin is cool, and the season is long, resulting in New Zealand-like sauvignon flavours where gooseberry and grapefruit dominate. Expect that wet rock minerality. Sutherland is the new Thelema; they change names, so get used to it. Good value too. Note Sutherland is the new moniker for this former Thelema Winery white.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Sacred Hill Pinot Noir 2009
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandLow yields help pinot noir and that's what happen in 2010 in Marlborough. Cedar cherry plums and forest floors dominate the nose of this juicy red with a touch of Oregon on the palate. Black cherries and cedar with rooty herby, earthy notes complete the flavour profile. Ready to drink. Serve with a fall mushroom risotto dish for best results.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Weltenburg Kloster Hefe-Weissbier Hell NV
GermanyA blonde wheat beer with fine white mousse. Spicy, floral, honey, earthy, grainy, pear aromas. Creamy, crisp palate with good acidity and a touch of sweetness. Similar flavours with a touch of ginger and clove. A spicier, slightly sweeter style but with good texture. Perhaps some lavender in here?Prices:| BC | $3.05 | 500ml |
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88PTS
Weltenburg Kloster Pils NV
GermanyPale blonde with fine white head. Spicy, earthy, pear, malt, oatmeal, floral aromas. Fresh, crisp, dry palate with creamy mousse. Earthy, soapy, pear, spicy, malt flavours. More elegant pilsner on the bitter side that will go well with food.Prices:| BC | $3.00 | 500ml |
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90PTS
Weltenburg Kloster Asam Bock NV
GermanyDark amber colour with fine light brown head. Toffee, malt, light coffee, seashore, spicy, grainy nose. Rich, full, creamy palate with earthy, grainy, coffee, floral, nutty flavours with a bit of bitter hops and sweetness on the long finish. Very good balance with mild carbonation. At 6.9% alcohol, a very good drink designed for sipping and barbecue foods.Prices:| BC | $3.30 | 500ml |
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86PTS
Obikwa Chenin Blanc 2009
Western Cape, South AfricaLast time out I was singing the praises of this wine as in how can they get it on the shelf in Canada for $9, it is the same story this year plus $1. Fresh dry fruity and clean this all you can want in an apéritif style white for dinner service on the patio. Why do they bother making cheap red in South Africa when they can crank out white wine at this price and quality?Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $9.25 | 750ml |
| SK | $10.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $8.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.50 | 750ml |
| NS | $9.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Saumur Blanc Cuvee Les Pouches 2010
Saumur, Loire, FranceThis label continues to impress with its floral, grassy, green apple, almond notes. The attack is fresh and nervous with a strong, citrus, nettle, fig mineral flavours flecked with honey, lime and minty and a touch of chalky minerality throughout the finish. Should be a hit in seafood restaurants especially with oysters or clams. Good value and need we say much brighter and fresher under screwcap.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thornhaven Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBright fresh light citrus green apple skin nose - that classic B.C. aromatic scent. The palate is similarly fresh and clean with a mix of melons and grassy citrus green apple grapefruit flavours. Simple clean fresh and ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Pavillon Arnaud Minervois Blanc 2010
Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceYou don't see a lot of Minervois blanc but we like the effort given only a little over 5 per cent of all Minervois is white. Look for a warm tropical fruit nose with bits of fig and citrus. If we have one complaint it tastes warmer than its labelled 12.5 alcohol. Try it with mussel or seafood pasta for best results.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Hillside Pinot Gris Reserve 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSlightly tired nose and oxidative aromas and flavours. Likely a closure problem. Need to try another bottle.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vivacious 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVivacious is mostly pinot blanc with a dash of pinot gris all home grown on the Home Lot Vineyard on the Naramata Bench. Expect a refreshing, lean style white with bright, green apple and pear fruit aromas and flavours flecked with bits of orange and a touch of lees for complexity. Crisp fresh and ready to drink. Try with shellfish.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2009
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesOpen fresh red fruit nose with dusty strawberry, sour cherry and spicy tobacco leaf with bits of barnyard. The attack is round and elegant with more strawberry, pepper, compost and carrot top flavours. The usual finesse of France with the density and texture of Oregon. Ready to sip now but it will improve through 2014 in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 375ml |
| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $39.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Taylor Fladgate First Estate Reserve Port NV
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalTaylor's First Estate is a 'vintage character" blend of selected wine aged in both vats and casks made in a drink-me-now manner that maintains the famous, full-bodied house style. It is packed with bright, fragrant black fruits with a dash of molasses, liquorice and spice a la Christmas cake. Serve nightly alongside a great read.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NFL | $23.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay Jackson Hills 2008
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesLove this new, toned-down, American version of chardonnay from Santa Barbara County. Some 55 percent of the fruit comes off the Santa Maria Valley benches home of the tropical pineapple/mango fruit flavours while the key to Jackson Hills is the rest of the fruit coming off the Los Alamos hillsides and benches because the latter brings the minerality, spice and floral aromas and minerality that shouts modern. We love the creamy textures and fresh fruit that suggest you can serve this with roasted chicken, pasta and or halibut dishes with confidence.Prices:| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ken Forrester Petit Chenin Blanc 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaI love the drinkability of this wine. Fresh and clean not too aggressive in acidity, dry with just the right amount of crunchy apple fruit and all in a pleasing, food-friendly style. A lovely introductory statement that you can confidently buy by the case. Fine match with local shellfish. A much needed addition to the BC portfolio.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
The Beach House White 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaSimilar to last year with its gooseberry, grapefruit, melon rind aromas with a twist of lemon. The blend is an 80/20mix of sauvignon/sémillon that delivers fresh, tart white fruit flavours of grapefruit, gooseberry, nettle and asparagus. An apéritif style white you can serve with oysters.Prices:| BC | $11.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Intrigue Pinot Gris 2010
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaI'm intrigued by this wine but the fact that it seems more sauvignon blanc-like than a pinot gris probably won't help it in blind tastings. Still the freshness and its ripe, red apple fruit entry is to be applauded as is the bright tart fruit, clean finish. Try it with clams or fresh cracked crab for best results. Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Farmer Dominique Torgan Grenache Blanc 2010
FranceThere is something to be said for fresh, bright mouth-watering, citrus, herbal, mineral based white wines that do not pretend to be anything else but that. Love the fresh drinkability and balance. We tried it with guacamole and baby carrots but it would be equally at home with roasted chicken. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Finca Flichman Gestos Shiraz 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaIt's been a few years since I last tried this wine but my response is the same. This is the level of wine we want from Argentina and Finca Flichman. Expect a rich savoury, floral, mineral, black fruit nose with bits of liquorice and meaty notes. The palate is expansive, the acidity bright with pepper, smoky, black fruit. The finish is weight and warm but nothing a T-bone steak would not easily resolve.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Finca Flichman Misterio Malbec Oak Aged 2010
Mendoza, ArgentinaSoft cedar tobacco, leafy, rooty nose with very similar notes on the palate with cassis, black cherry, tobacco meaty aromas. Just a bit too much acidity for us on the mid-palate before a savoury, tobacco, smoky, liquorice flavours. Solid if somewhat uninspiring.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $13.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $13.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Felino by Viña Cobos Malbec 2009
Mendoza, ArgentinaThis wine continues to improve as winemaker Paul Hobbs and Co dial back the cream and oak and up the minerality and terroir. Look for black cherry and poultry spice aromas in was is a supple red with fine acidity. The palate is a savoury mix of plum jam, liquorice and roasted mushroom flavours; the finish warm and fresh and suave and still with some fruit poking through. Fine value and a benchmark at this price range for quality.Prices:| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Taylor Fladgate Fine White Port NV
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalThe 'Fine White Port' is a mix of white grapes grown mainly on the Upper slopes of the Douro Valley; varieties include arinto, boal, codega, esgana cão, folgasão, gouveio, viosinho and rabigato. Each variety is aged solo in oak vats for about three years. Taylor's pioneered dry white aperitif port more than 60 years ago under the Chip Dry label, first blended in 1934 but the 'The Special White Port' is a much sweeter version. Look for a fresh floral anise with bits of vanilla and caramel throughout. I like it served over ice with a slice of lemon, especially on a hot day.Prices:| BC | $20.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $23.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.75 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Junta Winery Chile Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Momentos 2010
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe Momentos cabernet is a slightly better version of the Selección from Junta. The nose is deeper and more aromatic with cedar-y black fruits dominating. The attack is soft and supple with plummy, blueberry and cassis all with a generous lashing of spice. The finish is still a touch astringent and needs barbecued meat to work.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Junta Winery Chile Cabernet Sauvignon Selección 2010
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileGood bright cherry red color that precedes a cedar-y briar herbal savoury cabernet nose. The attack is skinny and fairly acidic with big blueberry and cedar flavours with a roasted coffee note in the finish. Simple and a bit sour. Try this with a cheesy pizza.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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04 September 2011
86PTS
Sibling Rivalry White 2010
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaAnother year another bright, clean fresh white full of citrus and mineral notes. We just love the simplicity and of this aromatic blend of riesling, chardonnay and gewürztraminer whose quality matches its price. Drink anytime you need a pick-me up. Great with sushi.Prices:| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Moon Curser Afraid of the Dark 2010
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is all-Osoyoos grown fruit that may surprise those who regularly suggest it's too hot to make white wine in the south. Each of the three varieties is fermented separately before blending but there is no oak in the mix, yeah! Viognier marsanne and roussanne signal a tight Rhone-style blend and despite its name - Afraid of the Dark, it is a white wine to die for. We love its fresh, peachy, ginger/nectarine aromas and fruit. The palate is equally intense and electric. Well done again. Don't be afraid of the packaging but be forewarned the wine is far more serious than it looks.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Blind Trust White +17/10 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest 'blind"' trust is a 60/22/9//9 mix of pinot gris, viognier sauvignon blanc and pinot blanc. The attack is fresh and bright with plenty of signature honey notes flecked with a strong undercurrent of orange, ginger, guava and peach. The finish is round and slightly sweet with honey, butter ginger highlights. What it lacks in finesse it makes up for in charm. We like it with Indian curries.Prices:| BC | $25.10 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine du Clos du Bourg Chenin Blanc Demi-Sec 2010
Touraine, Loire, FranceDemi-sec is your clue that this red apple and honey-scented white is off-dry. The attack is warm and full with big floral, mineral, pear fruit flavours. There is enough acidity to carry the sweet, succulent character that shouts out spicy dishes. You could easily pair this with spicy curries and other Asian dishes or be a little more daring and try it with barbecued ribs. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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03 September 2011
86PTS
Finca Los Primos Torrontés 2010
San Rafael, General Alvear, Southern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaIntense bright lifted fragrant white spicy orange and red apple fruit and hints of lime oil. The attack is similar but clean and fresh and full of orange and lime flavours. Delicious stuff for the price. Drink liberally on the palate.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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02 September 2011
86PTS
Miss Molly by Môreson Hoity Toity Chenin Blanc 2010
South AfricaThere are several styles of chenin blanc in the market and Hoity Toity fits into the slightly off-dry fruity spectrum offering up bits of tropical pineapple notes and peaches. The attack is fresh and weighty showing some fine creamy notes and a bit of fat from a small component of barrel aged viognier.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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October 2011