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Tastings: October 2011
31 October 2011
90PTS
Pentâge Winery Viognier 2009
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, butter, ginger, lees, honeysuckle, nectarine aromas. Round, fresh, soft palate with honey, butter, lees, ginger, baked pear, orange peel flavours. Good solid styling in a buttery style that you can drink now. Superclean and fresh under screwcap. Love the new low price too.Prices:| BC | $19.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Wild Goose Pinot Gris 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, honey, floral, citrus, baked green apple aromas. Fresh, juicy, round, somewhat sweet entry with soft acidity. Honey, butter, spicy, ginger, floral, apricot skin flavours. Good intensity but finish is quite sweet and a touch rind-y.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Penfolds Bin 138 Shiraz - Mourvèdre - Grenache 2007
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaVery spicy, floral, black raspberry jam, chocolate, orange and coffee aromas. Very fresh, warm, juicy palate with light tannins but slightly sweet. Big jammy, raspberry, black cherry, candied orange, floral, peppery, chocolate mint flavours. Finish is juicy but very warm and a bit raisiny.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $35.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $38.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $63.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Cassini Cellars Chardonnay 2010
Grapefruit rind, canned fruit, butter, green apple, matchstick aromas. Soft, fresh, somewhat sweet entry with butterscotch, lees, honey, canned grapefruit and apple skin. Simple, easy style with a sweet, rindy finish. Drink now.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Cloudline Pinot Gris 2009
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesCitrus, marzipan, green apple, grassy, passion fruit aromas. Fresh, juicy, round, slightly sweet but bitter entry. Grassy, nettle, ginger, passion fruit, marzipan, bruised apple skin flavours. Very soapy, bitter finish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Joseph Drouhin Laforet Bourgogne Chardonnay 2009
Burgundy, FranceEarthy, buttery, mineral, baked green apple, citrus aromas. Fresh, crisp, round, juicy palate with apple skin, pear, light butter, earthy, mineral flavours. Good ripeness and elegance but lacking a bit of freshness. Perhaps a screwcap would help this wine. Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
De Martino Legado Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Isla de Maipo, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileMenthol, bay leaf, cassis, savoury, peppery, chocolate, vanilla, tobacco, tar aromas. Dry, fresh, full palate with grainy tannins. Smoky, coffee, vanilla, tobacco, peppery, menthol, cedar, cassis, blackberry and herbal flavours with a bit of green bean on the finish. A bit chunky but should improve over the next year or two.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
De Martino Legado Reserva Carmenère 2009
Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, ChileSmoky, spicy, sappy, savoury, black cherry, tobacco leaf, herbal aromas. Soft, round, supple palate with light tannins. Tobacco leaf, coffee, black cherry, vanilla, smoky, licorice, savoury, menthol flavours. A smooth style red that is well balanced. Try this with a savoury, whole roasted chicken.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
De Martino Carmenère Alto de Piedras 2009
Isla de Maipo, Valle del Maipo, Region del Valle Central, Chile Very spicy, black pepper, vanilla, chocolate, black cherry jam, cassis jam, saddle leather, bay leaf and tobacco aromas. Rich, full, somewhat astringent but ripe palate. Smoky, chocolate, coffee, peppery, tobacco, cedar, savoury, rosemary, black cherry, bay and roast meat flavours. Good intensity and concentration. It will need to a few years to round out.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Chateau Bauduc Blanc Gordon Ramsay's Selection 2009
Bordeaux, FranceLight lees, passion fruit, grapefruit, nettle, green apple with a bit of matchstick. Fresh, juicy, soft and elegant palate with buttery lees, nutty, grapefruit, gooseberry, floral, canned jalapeno and hay flavours. Good finesse and intensity, ready to drink. Would be better under Stelvin.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thornhaven Tortured Grape 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, nectarine, green apple, ginger, pear skin aromas. Fresh, juicy, off dry palate with citrus, green apple, apricot pit, mineral, spicy, ginger flavours. Simple and elegant for spicy foods.Tortured Grape is a blend of riesling, viognier and orange muscatPrices:| BC | $18.00 | 375ml |
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83PTS
Thornhaven Pinot Noir 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLeather, carrot top, worsteshire, leesy, gamey, barnyard, animal aromas. Dry, flat, slightly lean entry with smoked leather, smoked meat, barnyard, dried cherry, oaky flavours. Needs to be cleaner.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Thornhaven Pinot Gris 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, green apple, pear skin, fruit cocktail aromas. Fresh, round, juicy but somewhat sweet entry with pear, honey, floral, spicy, baked green apple. Good fruit but too sweet. Will appeal to some entry level consumers.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tinhorn Creek Pinot Noir 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCompost, barnyard, tobacco leaf, geranium leaf, strawberry, herbal aromas. Dry, somewhat tannic, palate with herbal, meaty, earthy, compost, coffee flavours with cedar-y undertones. Not up to the same fruity standard we see in the Tinhorn merlot or syrah.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Chateau de Jau 2008
Côtes du Roussillon, Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceSmoky, meaty, peppery, black berry, black cherry, rosemary, floral aromas. Fresh, juicy, round palate with black cherry, chocolate, meaty, peppery, savoury, leather flavours. A bit rustic but has good fruit intensity. Try it with pulled pork or barbecue ribs.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Alazani Valley Semi-Sweet White 2008
GeorgiaOxidized/corked,Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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30 October 2011
92PTS
St. Clement Vineyards Oroppas 2007
Napa Valley, California, United StatesSt. Clement's flagship red is the Oroppas Cabernet Sauvignon in this case 92 percent with bits of merlot, petit verdot and cabernet franc. The fruit, mostly mountain, is grown off-site at Diamond Mountain, Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder, Rutherford and Spring Mountain. The '07 is a big, rich showy red wine with plenty of rich tannins, dried herbs, liquorice and black fruit flavours with a dollop of French oak. It is built to age but you can drink it now with a T-bone steak but it will be best in a decade.Prices:| BC | $86.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
St. Clement Vineyards Merlot 2008
Napa Valley, California, United StatesSt. Clement merlot is based on a blend of cool-ish south Napa fruit. In '08 the berries were small and yields were low giving the wine an intense strawberry/plum fruit aromas and flavours. Some 40 percent of the wine is aged in new French oak for 19 months giving it polished sweet' round tannins that mix effortlessly with its black fruit and chocolate finish. Grill meat is a perfect match.Prices:| SK | $39.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
ll Nostro Grecanico 2010
Sicily, ItalySicily doesn't evoke visions of clean, fresh, crisp dry white wine but this grecanico delivers all that and more for less than $13 and it's under screwcap. Look for bright citrus/green apple fruit flavours with a twist of orange rind and wax. Clams, lobster or crab would all work well with this wine.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Vina Gravonia Crianza Blanco 2000
Rioja Alta, Rioja, SpainA curiosity for most wine drinkers but this 100 percent old vine viura that spends four long years in old 225 litre American oak barrels and then four years in bottle certainly qualifies as quirky. The nose is slightly oxidative with nutty, old wood and mineral tones and lime zest. The attack is bone dry and tart with a strong lemon mineral undertone. There is nothing modern about this white wine but perhaps that is its charm. Complex old white wine you have to taste to believe. Seafood is the match.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine 2009
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceDefinitely an upgrade since we last tasted the 2004. Expect a warm, rich, meaty, black raspberry jam and liquorice nose flecked with chocolate. The attack is round and generous with more peppery, black raspberry, spicy, liquorice and black fruit flavours all with that undercurrent of garrigue. Fleshier than the previous edition no doubt due to the fine '09 harvest. Try this with lamb osso buco.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Jacob's Creek Chardonnay 2009
South Eastern Australia, AustraliaAmazing style here for the price. The nose is fresh with a strong peachy, mineral, butter scent. The attack is fresh and zesty with more peachy, lime rind flavours and a crisp, dry citrus finish. It doesn't get much better than this for the price.Prices:| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $12.00 | 750ml |
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29 October 2011
84PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Alazani Valley Semi-Sweet Red 2008
GeorgiaSavoury, herbal, riparian, sour cherry, peppery, rubber aromas. Fresh, round, slightly sweet entry with very light tannins. Sour cherry, rhubarb, savoury, herbal, leafy, slightly foxy flavours. A bit tart on the finish but has some fruit and balance. Try it with meat stews.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Saperavi Dry Red 2008
Kakheti, GeorgiaPeppery, plum, black cherry, herbal, floral, minty, barnyard aromas. Fresh, supple, elegant palate with light tannins. Riparian, smoky, herbal, cherry, plum, mineral, rooty, spicy flavours. Youthful, slightly astringent finish but has fruit and some intensity to go 1-3 years. Worth trying at this price.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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0PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Saperavi Dry Red 2007
Kakheti, Georgiacorked, try anotherPrices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Ojaleshi Semi-Sweet Red 2010
Western Georgia, GeorgiaSappy, menthol, tobacco leaf, riparian, black cherry, rooty, smoky game aromas, a bit like Foch. Somewhat sweet, fresh, astringent palate with leafy, peppery, plum, tomato, herbal, smoky, gamey, tobacco flavours. Rustic and on the herbaceous side at this point, needs a few years to soften. Stronger characteristics than Khvanchkara version.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Khvanchkara Semi-Sweet Red 2008
Racha, Ambrolauri, GeorgiaOpen spicy, liquorice, dried cherry, raisin, smoky nose with bits of leather, herbal and sage aromas all with a hint of marzipan. Full, juicy, somewhat sweet palate with youthful tannins. On the palate expect tobacco, meaty, savoury, stewed rhubarb, dried cherry flavours flecked with poultry spice and carrot top flavours. Good concentration but needs a few years to soften the tannins.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Pirosmanu Semi-Dry Red 2008
Alazani and Duruji, Kakheti, GeorgiaPeppery, black liquorice, plum, floral, leafy, tobacco, light compost aromas. Smooth, round, elegant palate with light sweetness and a touch of tannins. Cherry, stewed rhubarb, tobacco leaf, herbal, spicy, peppery flavours. Solid balance if a bit rustic on the finish. More of a hamburger red.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Mukuzani Dry Red 2007
Mukuzani, Kakheti, GeorgiaLeather, smoky, roasted tomato, black pepper, rooty savoury, menthol aromas. Smooth, dry, fresh palate with herbal, spicy, herbal, smoky leather, leafy, tomato, riparian flavours. Balanced but exhibits leafy underripe characters.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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24 October 2011
89PTS
Nik Weis Selection Urban Riesling 2010
Mosel, GermanyThis label is always consistently fresh and juicy with crunchy apple fruit dominating all with a superior mix of mouth-watering acidity. A fine minerality pierces through the finish suggesting this is a very versatile food wine.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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23 October 2011
87PTS
Jacob's Creek Chardonnay Pinot Noir Brut Cuvee NV
AustraliaNew to the market and a fun addition for those of you who want a dry but fruity sparkler without the aggressive acidity. The grape mix is chardonnay and pinot noir, the nose a citrus affair with soft red fruit flavours with a touch of yeast and crushed hazelnuts. The texture and finish is creamy and soft.Prices:| BC | $11.79 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Dow's Old Tawny Port Aged 10 Years NV
Douro Valley, Northern Portugal, PortugalA blend of wines that have spent a minimum average of 10 years in oak casks. During the aging process the deep purple colour of youthful port wanes to a more subtle orange brown tawny colour, hence its name. Nuts and exotic spice mix with toffee, nutmeg and orange peel lending this delicious port style its enormous curb-side appeal in the glass. Sip forever by the fireside or with nutty cake desserts.Prices:| MB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $38.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis Domaine de Bieville 2008
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceProduced from old vines in the Vivier area at the edge of the Chablis region in the south east. Green apple, nutty, wet leaf, lemon, minty, seashell aromas. Fresh, crisp, round, elegant and vibrant palate. Mineral, nutty, lemon, spicy, leafy, green apple and pear skin flavours with a bit of lees. Well balanced for current consumption but should improve over the next year.Prices:| BC | $29.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Domaine Louis Moreau Petit Chablis 2008
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceFloral, citrus, chalky, lime, green apple aromas. Light, fresh, elegant style with juicy acidity. Lime, seashell, chalky, green apple flavours. A simple, vibrant style for food accompaniment.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Joseph Drouhin Cote de Beaune Blanc 2009
Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceButter, baked pear, floral, nutty, spicy, waxy, apple aromas. Round, dry, elegant palate with soft but juicy acidity with freshness. Lanolin, baked apple, pear, butter, nutty lees flavours with a grapefruit, chalky note. Good food wine for current consumption. Offers balance despite a touch of austerity.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Thornhaven Chardonnay 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaButtery, floral, honey, popcorn, baked apple aromas with a bit of lees. Ripe, round, slightly fat and sweet entry. Baked apple, honey, spicy lees, vanilla, pear and butterscotch flavours. Good fruit and intensity if a bit commercial.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Pavillon Arnaud Minervois Rouge 2009
Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceMeaty, smoky, gamey, peppery, black cherry, savoury spice nose. Dry, fresh, slightly lean palate with light tannins. Tobacco, resin, plum, peppery, meaty, liquorice and herb flavours. Solid red if a bit rustic this vintage.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Calliope Rosé 2010
British Columbia, CanadaPale raspberry colour. Floral, spicy, earthy, leafy, cherry and apple aromas. Round, fresh, somewhat sweet entry with ginger, spicy, earthy, tobacco and cherry flavours. Fresh, easy style for any picnic.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tinhorn Creek Kerner Icewine 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHoney, baked pear, dried apricot, citrus and butter aromas with a volatile note. Ripe, fresh, round and juicy palate with softer, creamy acidity. Butter, baked orange, honey, lime, pear and apple flavours. Good fruit and balance with a touch of volatility on the finish.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 200ml |
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83PTS
Kressmann Merlot 2010
FranceSmoky, herbal, black olive, cherry, meaty, earthy, tobacco leaf nose. Fresh, round, dry palate with a bit of astringency. Herbal, resin, smoke, tobacco, cedar, earth and herb flavours. On the greener side of life.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 1500ml |
| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Kressmann Chardonnay 2010
FranceLight, floral, green apple, citrus, earthy, mineral aromas. Fresh, crisp, light palate with pear skin, green apple and citrus flavours. Clean, simple, light extract style. Fair price.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $18.00 | 1500ml |
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88PTS
The Big Easy 2007
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesBig ripe style with blackberry jam, savoury, licorice, black plum, peppery, meaty aromas. Rich, full, round, ripe and warm, soft palate. Tobacco, peppery, leafy, savoury, blackberry jam, black cherry, smoky flavours. Warm, soft, round finish with big fruit and sweet vanilla. A warming, winter red.Prices:| BC | $44.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $60.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Villa Ponte Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah 2008
Black Sea Region, BulgariaVery peppery, rooty, resin, tobacco, meaty, black berry nose. Dry, fresh, light palate with black olive, herbal, cassis, spicy, meaty, leather, cedar and resin flavours. A bit rustic but has varietal characters.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Penfolds Magill Estate Shiraz 2008
Adelaide Plains, South Australia, AustraliaRipe blackberry jam, plum, floral, licorice, gamey, vanilla, smoky leather, garrigue and espresso nose. Full, ripe, round, smooth and supple palate with fresh acidity. Black plum, blackberry, licorice, smoky, bacon, vanilla, coffee, peppery, rooty flavours. Good finesse, fruit and balance with a bit of tartness and warmth on the finish. Drink now-10 years.Prices:| ON | $75.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $76.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $75.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $76.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $75.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $74.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Tibaneli Single Estate Tsinandali Dry White 2007
GeorgiaSpicy, minty, honey, light butter, baked green apple, seashell and lime aromas. Dry, round, somewhat austere but elegant palate. Green peach, minty, apple skin, pear, grassy flavours. Solid and unusual but could use a bit more freshness. Perhaps a younger vintage would be livelier?Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vino Grigio 2010
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHoney, floral, pear, citrus aromas. Fresh, juicy, crisp palate with grapefruit, pear, and white peach and green apple flavours. Delicate, fresh style with good fruit and balance. Continued fine styling.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Meritage 2008
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCoffee, chocolate, barnyard, saddle leather, smoky, cassis, peppery, floral, blackberry and vanilla pudding aromas. Ripe, round, smooth palate with light tannins and a touch of warmth. Smoky, spicy, peppery, tobacco leaf, coffee, vanilla, herbal, black olive, resin, prune and cassis flavours. Finish is very warm with cedar, espresso, vanilla, black tea and tobacco flavours. A very solid effort despite the obvious heat.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Burrowing Owl Pinot Noir 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGamey, tobacco, smoky, chocolate, worsteshire, tobacco leaf aromas. Round, dry, slightly lean entry but delicate style. Coffee, chocolate, vanilla, cedar bark, herbal, smoky, dried cherry flavours. Finish is very warm and oaky. Needs more freshness and fruit.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rollingdale Estate Red 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSmoky, earthy, tobacco, cherry jam, gamey, riparian aromas. Soft, dry, easy palate with herbal, olive, riparian, tobacco, meaty, spicy, sappy, sour cherry flavours. The foch is tamed in this edition that offers some fruit and balance for immediate consumption.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rollingdale Pinot Noir Stoney Slope Vineyards 2008
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, black cherry, strawberry jam, floral, resin, light compost aromas. Dry, fresh, somewhat austere palate with cedar bark, cherry, rhubarb, smoky, herbal, tobacco flavours. A bit lean on the finish but shows potential.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rollingdale Merlot Le Droit 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTobacco, spicy, black olive, cherry, plum, light floral and barnyard aromas. Smooth, round, supple and elegant palate with plum, carrot top, tobacco, earthy, spicy, vanilla, meaty flavours with a touch of barnyard and cedar. A very feminine style without big extraction but solid fruit. A big step forward in style and quality. Drink now or keep for 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Shoo Fly Shiraz 2009
South Australia, AustraliaBig blackberry jam, peppery, black cherry, spicy, meaty, savoury, slightly smoky aromas. Ripe, round, smooth, fresh and supple palate with warm bacon, chocolate, prune, blackberry jam, and leather and smoky, rosemary flavours. A bit warm and jammy but offers good fruit and finesse in a forward style. Drink now with lamb stew or duck confit.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Flying Winemaker Zinfandel Ancient Vine 2009
Lodi, Central Valley, California, United StatesPeppery, black berry, plum, spicy, floral, liquorice aromas. Ripe, fresh, round, slightly tannic palate with a touch of sweetness. Black berry jam, smoky, liquorice, floral, peppery lifted chocolate flavours. A bit warm but offers solid fruit for entry level Zin drinkers.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Ogio Primitivo 2009
Puglia, ItalySpicy, prune, blackberry jam, meaty, barnyard aromas. Fresh, light, dry palate with peppery, meaty, rooty, black cherry, almond, leafy flavours. A very basic red for oven bakes spareribs.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.85 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Finca La Linda Tempranillo by Luigi Bosca 2009
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaPrune, smoky, tobacco, black cherry jam, roast meat and chocolate aromas. A full, round, soft, elegant red with a fresh palate and chocolate, prune, meaty, tobacco, peppery, savoury, kirsch flavours. Solid fruit core and concentration for hearty fall stews.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cameron Hughes Lot 191 Zinfandel 2009
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United StatesBlack pepper, smoky, liquorice root, blackberry and prune aromas. Ripe, round, smooth, fresh palate with light tannins. Warm blackberry, chocolate, vanilla, peppery, spicy, prune and tobacco flavours with a touch of warmth and sweetness on the finish. Well balanced overall for near term consumption. Try ity with barbecue fare.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinot Blanc VLH 2008
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHoney, citrus, ripe pear, butter, green apple and floral aromas. Ripe, sweet but fresh palate with moderate acidity. Clean, baked pear, honey, lime, butter, quince and apple flavours. Good delicacy and fruit flavours without being too heavy. Ready to drink now - 2 years.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinot Noir 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight ruby colour. Cooked strawberry, prune, barnyard, rhubarb, spicy, leafy, gamey aromas. Fresh, supple and slightly juicy, elegant palate. Smoky, vanilla, herbal, rhubarb, prune, coffee, strawberry jam flavours with a bit of compost. A tad oaky and tight now but offers solid pinot fruit and balance in a more elegant style.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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21 October 2011
92PTS
Luigi Bosca Icono 2007
Mendoza, ArgentinaPlum, vanilla, chocolate, blackberry jam, floral, tobacco, cedar, five spices, Christmas pudding aromas with a bit of saddle leather. Smooth, soft, supple palate with light tannins and balanced acidity. Warm plum, black cherry, mocha, cedar, tobacco, savoury, spicy, peppery, vanilla, Christmas cake, liquorice and cassis flavours with a bit of barnyard. Although warm, this is a very balanced and refined style that has achieved good fruit intensity and concentration without over extraction. Drinkable now but should improve over the next 2-5 years.Prices:| BC | $124.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Le Jau de Jau Syrah 2010
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceSpicy, peppery, sausage meat, lees, savoury, black cherry aromas. Fresh, light, supple and smooth with plum, tobacco leaf, peppery, spicy, orange peel and licorice flavours. A very forward, light style with fruit and easy appeal.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Rollingdale Cabernet Sauvignon Le Gauche 2008
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig tobacco leaf, herbal, green olive, green bean, cassis, smoky leather and light barnyard aromas. Dry, fresh, smooth, light palate with balanced acidity but a bit lean. Cassis, herbal, roast pepper, tobacco leaf, cedar, smoky, meaty, olive and resin flavours with a smoky oak, vanilla finish. Offers finesse like the merlot but on a much greener scale. Will improve over the next few years.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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20 October 2011
91PTS
Torres Mas La Plana 2007
Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainHuge spicy, peppery, black olive nose with tobacco, barnyard, cassis, coffee, vanilla, smoky, dried cranberry aromas with a touch of saddle leather. Dry, fresh, elegant, juicy palate with light, grainy tannins and a touch of austerity. Cassis, coffee, vanilla, herbal, tobacco, smoky, saddle leather, barnyard, olive, green bean and savoury flavours with a bit of Band-Aid and cedar on the finish. Good finesse and structure that will benefit from 3-7 years aging. Definitely improves with decanting and shows more intense fruit.Prices:| BC | $47.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
| US | $50.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $48.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $43.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $38.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Miss Molly by Môreson In My Bed Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2009
South AfricaSmoked leather, coffee, prune, meaty, peppery, cigar butt and medicinal aromas. Round, dry, slightly tannic and lean palate. Huge smoky, shoe leather, tobacco, cedar, meat and resin flavours.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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19 October 2011
88PTS
Black Hills Chardonnay 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHoney, butter, pear, peach, canned grapefruit and melon aromas. Round, full, ripe palate but soft and creamy. Melon, butterscotch, popcorn, baked apple and lees flavours. Good finesse and fruit but lacks mid-palate weight and has a short finish. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bret Brothers La Soufrandiere Domaine de Beaujolais-Leynes Bien-Venu in X-tremis Rouge 2009
Beaujolais, Burgundy, FranceSpicy, meaty, leesy, floral, cherry, red plum, mineral and licorice root aromas with a strong Band-Aid streak. Fresh, supple, elegant and juicy dry palate. Chalky, cherry, cranberry, gamey, smoky leather, tobacco, Band-Aid and celery salt flavours. Good freshness and fruit but has a strong streak of Brettanomyces for such a young wine. Drink now while the Bret is still festering.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz 2007
South Australia, AustraliaBlackberry, black plum, menthol, licorice, rosemary, peppery, tobacco, spicy, savoury aromas. Ripe, round, full and supple with a warm, tart edge. Tobacco, spicy, savoury, five spice, blackberry, licorice, smoky, meaty flavours. Good finesse and fruit but the streak of warmth and acidity remains. Drink now-8 years.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $75.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $46.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $52.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $75.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $55.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $54.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $63.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Drouhin Arthur Chardonnay 2009
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesSecond tasting of this is much better after 5 months. Pear, honey, white floral, baked apple, nutty lees, butter, vanilla and citrus aromas. Fresh, round, slightly juicy but austere palate. Buttery, lemon, vanilla, spicy lees, baked green apple and pear flavours flavours. A leaner, cooler style with a Chablis like streak.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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17 October 2011
89PTS
Benziger Merlot 2007
Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe signature of Sonoma merlot is its supple texture and soft tannins and this Benziger has it in spades. Certified sustainable it's hard not to like the rich black fruit and pepper aromas and flavours with a dash of milk chocolate. Beef tenderloin is recommended by the winery and we concur.Prices:| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery Council's Punch Bowl Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGrassy, matchstick, passion fruit, grapefruit, herbal aromas with a floral note. Fresh, slightly sweet entry with good a juicy edge. Grapefruit, green apple, passion fruit, grassy flavours. A simple, fresh, varietal correct entry level style at a solid price.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Vina Robles White 4 2010
Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, Central Coast, California, United StatesFloral, honey, spicy, ginger, peach, mineral and light lees aromas. Ripe, round, juicy but slightly sweet palate. Ripe pear, honey, ginger, earthy, floral, butter and melon flavours. Good overall fruit and balance but finish is a bit too sweet.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pascual Toso Chardonnay 2010
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaHoney, citrus, light lees, baked pear, butter, vanilla, apple skin aromas with a bit of toasted garlic. Fresh, juicy, off-dry palate with good intensity. Melon, citrus, green apple, lees, pear and grapefruit flavours with a buttery finish. Good solid entry level chardonnay at a fair price.Prices:| BC | $13.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $11.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pentagram Chardonnay 2009
Black Sea Region, BulgariaPear, butter, honey, light garlic and baked apple aromas. Dry, round, juicy, slightly austere palate with some oiliness. Baked apple, pear skin, buttery, chalky, citrus flavours. Solid food friendly style.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Canapi Rosé 2010
Sicily, ItalyPale salmon-orange colour with an earthy, spicy, tobacco, almond, black cherry nose. Fresh, crisp, off dry palate with cherry jam, prune, spicy, baked apple, earthy, citrus flavours. Simple, fresh style with solid balance and good fruit for food matching. Very good value here.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Ortas La Domeliére Rasteau 2009
Rasteau, Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceFrom the excellent 2009 vintage this Rasteau red is a 70/20/10 blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre. Expect an attractive sweet smoky nose with bits of red fruit spice. The entry is fragrant with black cherry, plum, licorice root, savoury, meaty, peppery, kirsch flavours. Big warm finish with some intensity. Try with lamb or chicken grilled on rosemary or keep for a year or two to soften.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Averill Creek Vineyard Pinot Gris 2009
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaThis one hundred percent pinot gris from Vancouver Island wowed the pre-dinner crowd on Saturday night and it was a perfect foil to the mini cup of chanterelle risotto appetizer. Razor thin but with stone fruit, lemon oil and honey aromas and flavours that give it enough weight to carry its juicy, melon mineral finish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Emiliana Novas Winemaker's Selection Syrah 2006
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileCasablanca syrah seems incongruous given the cool nature of the valley but the eastern end of Casablanca, tucked up against the tunnel to Santiago is a warmer "cool" environment that inspires this organic syrah. Look for smoky meaty Rhone notes over cool, spicy plummy fruit. The palate is mix of red fruits with coffee, chocolate and savoury berries. Seriously delicious style here.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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12 October 2011
93PTS
Errazuriz Don Maximiano Founder's Reserve 2007
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe top of the line Errazuriz Don Maximiano Founder's Reserve 2007 is based on 82 percent cabernet sauvignon blended to equal parts of cabernet franc, petit verdot and syrah and the result is an inviting fragrant nose of red fruits and liquorice. Founders is always very pure expression of Aconcagua with its intense aromatic cedar, cassis and balsamic notes. The palate is elegant and the tannins well-managed. Red currants, spice, and blackberry fruit disappear into the youthful French oak and vanilla all in balance. Hearty winter dishes will settle this young red down but it should be perfect by 2016. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $80.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe grapes for the Max Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2010 were sourced 75 percent from the Manzanar Vineyard in Aconcagua Costa, located just 12 km from the Pacific Ocean and 25 percent from Casablanca Valley. Only two percent of the grapes were fermented in barrels but all the wine is aged on its lees. A pale greenish-yellow colour, this wine has great aromatic expression full of dried herbs, lemon and passion fruit aromas and flavours. There is a small bit of barrel-fermented fruit added to the mix to flesh out the body and add a creamy character to the finish.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Fontanafredda Briccotondo Barbera 2010
Piedmont, ItalyThere's something fragrant and satisfying abut youthful barbera. Plums and cherries reign on the palate with fine acidity but not with that over the top tartness. In fact, the texture is silky enough to attract even the fussiest sippers. We love the black pepper and fruit spiced with bits of cardamom. Perfect for spaghetti Bolognese or mushroom risotto.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Errazuriz Chardonnay Wild Ferment 2010
Aconcagua Costa, Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe first "wild ferment" using grapes from the Aconcagua Costa region and the Errazuriz Manzanar Estate. Manzanar's rolling hills sit 100 to 300 m above sea level and are only 12 km from the super cool Pacific Ocean. The 28.5 hectares planted in 2005 include clones 548 (structure), 95 (aromatics) and 76 (tropical notes). It's all hand-picked, early in the morning and before a swift and gentle whole-cluster pressing. The blend is aged on its lees for 12 months in French oak barrels (10% new). The nose is complex mix of aromas including lees, mineral and lively, citrus, nutty notes. The style is fresh and clean with fine concentration of flavour. Lush, creamy and sophisticated it is a very modern take on Chilean chardonnay.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
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10 October 2011
90PTS
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Aconcagua Costa, Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileTasted several times. The 2010 comes off five-year old vines grown at the Manzanar Vineyard, Aconcagua Costa a mere 12 kilometers from the Pacific Ocean. Errazuriz has 80 hectares planted to the sauvignon blanc clones 1, 107, 376 and 242 and all combine to shape the wines vibrant style. Very little pre-maceration has led to a beautifully structured, aromatic white wine that dances a herbal, mineral, passion fruit ballet on the palate. It was made for oysters. A stunning new future for Errazuriz. Fabulous restaurant wine. Currently on the reserve wine list at Earls at a very modest price.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $25.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Speri Valpolicella Classico Superiore Sant' Urbano 2001
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyClean and fragrant the colour gives indication this wine is ten years old. Expect a strong fragrant red fruit nose form this 70/25/5 blend of corvina Veronese/rondinella/molinara with 5 percent local varieties. The 19 hectare Monte Sant 'Urbano estate is at the heart of this wine and sits some 280 to 350 metres above sea level at Fumane. The grapes are dried approximately three weeks. Look for a wealth of dried cherry fruit with smoky, mushroom, cedar and earth undertones on the nose. The attack is firm and dry with obvious red fruit flavours, fine acidity and subtle tannins. Just coming into its own with a decade in the bottle. Try this with pecorino cheese or an osso buco dish to best effect.Prices:| BC | $39.95 | 750ml |
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09 October 2011
88PTS
Mer Soleil Silver Unoaked Chardonnay 2010
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesMer Soleil makes a simple un-oaked style chardonnay they bottle in a ceramic container. Look for a fresh nose with bits of pear, citrus, baked apple with tropical undertones. The attack is fresh and clean with rich buttery, tropical pineapple and honey fruit all in a ripe juicy style.Prices:| BC | $31.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Montes Classic Series Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Valle del Curicó, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe Classic Series is exactly what you want for the price. Fresh lemons dried herbs a dash of green fruit and gooseberry but all in balance. The texture is soft but with fine acidity and crispness that invites another bite of food. Super value.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Pentâge Winery Chardonnay 2007
Skaha Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIntense citrus, green apple and butterscotch and resin on the nose with bits of spice and pear. The attack is slightly off balance with citrus, peachy, apricot and sour apple fruit with minerality and toasted butterscotch notes in the back end. Awkward at best. Drink now.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Bret Brothers Macon-Uchizy Climat La Martine 2009
Mâconnais, Burgundy, FranceThe Mâcon-Uchizy La Martine is made from fruit grown on 50+ year-old vines situated over clay and limestone with an abundance of small stones. You will love the ripe, red apple fruit aromas and flavours with flecks orange too, but it's the balance, minerality and sheer delicious flavour profile that attracts. A wine that clearly over delivers for its appellation.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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08 October 2011
84PTS
Umbala Chenin Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Western Cape, South AfricaUmbala's mix of chenin and sauvignon is a simple pleasing commercial mix of grassy sauvignon and ripe grapefruit/melon flavoured chenin blanc. Serve it with seafood and or chicken salads or solo as an aperitif.Prices:| BC | $12.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Rollingdale Organic Estate Pinot Gris 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTight floral nose with green apple skin and dried herbs. The attack is crisp with fairly intense citrus fruit flavours that scrape your palate clean. The finish is short but also clean. A perfect wine for West coast oysters or clams. Organically grown and certified fruit.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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80PTS
Ogio Pinot Grigio 2010
Puglia, ItalySnappy packaging is about all this wine has going for it. Super dry from front to back it tastes more like pressed wine than fresh wine. I guess at $8.85 in Ontario it makes a bit of sense but not for $13 in BC.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $11.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $8.85 | 750ml |
| NF | $14.00 | 750ml |
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07 October 2011
88PTS
Dr. Loosen Sparkling Riesling NV
GermanyI'm seldom intrigued by wines that distributors ask their clients to produce for them but the Loosen sparkler is a good idea. Sekt as the Germans refer to sparkling wine is something they drink more than anyone else in the world so they do know bubble. The Dr. L Sparkling Riesling is 100% riesling so you can expect a super fresh, crisp, steely fruit bubble with a touch of sweetness. We like its juicy demeanour on the palate and expect you will too.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Dr. Loosen Beerenauslese 2006
Mosel, GermanyAccording to Ernie Loosen an 'enormous' amount of Dr. Loosen 2006 TBA was made (because they could) and he smartly packaged it all in 187 ml bottles to help contain the price and get people drinking it. Whether you choose to serve it with foie gras before dinner or some sort of chocolate/orange dessert after the meal this wine will stun you. The nose is simply sensational and packed full of peach and dried apricot aromas. The palate is unctuous and awash in citrus/lime and orange oil flavours the finish is long, complex and intense but clean and surprisingly refreshing. Bravo.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 187ml |
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93PTS
Dr. Loosen Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese 2009
Mosel, GermanyThe Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese is left about 10 days longer on the vine and the result is a studier wine that is as masculine as it gets in this super elegant theatre of vines known as the Mosel. Stone fruit and dried apricot aromas and flavours mark the palate of this delicious, juicy, mineral laden riesling made from two vineyard parcels averaging 89 through 100 years old and two parcels of 25 year old vine. You can easily cellar this for a decade and beyond.Prices:| BC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Dr. Loosen Erdener Treppchen Kabinett 2009
Mosel, GermanyLove the nervous energy of this wine, the tension between the acidity and the sugar and the flora undertones. If you don't drink riesling this wine will turn your head. Take you pick: citrus, lime, melon, honeysuckle red apple, wet stone minerality and freshness blanket the palate. Delicious clean refreshing Kabinett style perfectly balanced.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenhur Riesling Kabinett 2009
Mosel, GermanyThe legendary 1920 and 1921 vintages of Prum Wehlener Sonnenhur really made this vineyard's reputation. Wow, this 2009 just pops out of the glass with sensational freshness, ripeness and acidity. So ethereal and according Loosen there has been no vintage like it, i.e. so much ripe fruit and even more acidity. Sonnenhur, the sundial, is a 100 percent south-facing slope of weathered, deep blue slate rich in potassium and now covered in 80-year old vines. A fantastic buy and cellar worthy to boot.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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04 October 2011
88PTS
Road 13 Honest John's White 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Honest John is a big jump up in quality with 58 percent riesling at the centre of the blend. The rest is a 5/18/4/12/3/ mix of sauvignon blanc, kerner, chardonnay, bacchus, and viognier. The nose is an explosive aromatic mix fruits that include melon and red grapefruit with a dash of honey. The palate is super fresh with more pear green apple and melon fruit with perfect tension between the acidity and sweetness. A wonderful wine for turkey.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPruny, floral, cassis, roasted bell pepper, tobacco leaf, black olive, green bean, meaty, barnyard aromas. Dry, round, somewhat light and lean palate. Spicy, prune, barnyard, sweaty saddle leather, cranberry, herbal, coffee, soupy, olive flavours. Lacks mid-palate and cleanliness. Best with barbecue meat.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $41.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Flying Winemaker Chardonnay 2008
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesRipe peach, honey, baked apple, floral, light butter aromas with a hint of orange. Round, soft, elegant palate with a touch of sweetness. Honey, spicy, butter, ripe melon, orange, baked pear flavours. Good fruit and ripeness, just needs a bit fresher acidity to balance the warm and richness.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Tribunal Red Wine 2009
Sonoma County, California, United StatesLifted blackberry, meaty, floral, liquorice aromas with a savoury, spicy, pepper undertones. Expect a rich, round, slightly sweet entry with some chunky tannin. Warm with prune, coffee, peppery, black cherry jam, espresso oak and smoky, rooty flavours. A bit rustic and warm but with solid fruit.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Koyle Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva Alto Colchagua 2008
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, peppery, savoury, menthol, sappy, cassis, bay leaf, cedar, leather aromas indeed showing a bit of its 14 percent carmenère content. Round, ripe, supple palate with peppery, smoky, herbal, cassis, cedar, meaty, chocolate flavours. A bit warm but good intensity for drinking now and over the next two years.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Cameron Hughes Lot 200 Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Napa Valley, California, United StatesPrune, blackberry, leather, meaty, barnyard, peppery, smoky, cassis, tobacco aromas. Full, ripe, round, supple palate with light tannins. Cedar, tobacco, floral, cassis jam, prune, peppery, barnyard, saddle leather, meaty, coffee, vanilla flavours. Good intensity with a warm, oaky, meaty finish.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $51.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Cameron Hughes Lot 189 Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United StatesFloral, blackberry jam, peppery, lifted tobacco, leather, cedar, black cherry, meaty aromas. Round, dry, elegant but short mid-palate with some gritty tannin. Cassis, black cherry, smoky, coffee, vanilla, liquorice, leather flavours. Finish is short and a bit volatile with a balsamic edge.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Anciano Gran Reserva Tempranillo Aged 10 Years 2001
Valdepeñas, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainSpicy, tobacco, peppery, earthy, black cherry, prune, saddle leather aromas with a floral, cigar note. Round, dry, supple, full palate. Cedar, tobacco, chocolate, leather, prune, dried sage, olive and black tea flavours. Good flavours and intensity with some light tannins. Just a bit more concentrated than the 7 year old version.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Anciano Gran Reserva Tempranillo Aged 7 Years 2003
Valdepeñas, Castilla-La Mancha, SpainExpect a pleasant cedar, tobacco, black olive, savoury smoky nose. Fresh dry, round and elegant the palate is supple with earthy, tobacco, olive, peppery, spicy, sage, dried cherry and prune flavours. Good acidity and balance that is designed for food and drinking. Can't beat the quality and price.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Antica Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Napa Valley, California, United StatesSmoky, toasted bell pepper nose with vanilla, coffee, olive, green bean, tobacco leaf and herbal aromas. The entry is supple and the styling elegant but a lean 'Euro' palate with light dusty tannins. Smoky, meaty, spicy, sweaty saddle leather, sage, tobacco leaf, bell pepper, olive flavours with a sappy, barnyard, hot, green herbal finish. Try this with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Monster Vineyards Rosé 2009
British Columbia, CanadaThe Monster blush is made from merlot, cabernet franc and syrah that get just a hint of skin contact via the bleeding or saignée process. It's all done in a cool environment and the result is a fresh but richer style pink with hints of earth and herbs. The palate is just off-dry pink with citrus/strawberry, forest floor notes throughout and a warm finish. Ready to drink. Try this with richer dishes.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Jackson Hills 2007
Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesCassis, blackberry, cedar, floral, tobacco, black pepper, saddle leather, licorice, chocolate aromas. Rich, round, smooth, dry, fresh palate with fine grained tannins. Chocolate, earthy, smoky, peppery, blackberry jam, kirsch, mineral, licorice, vanilla, chalky, meaty flavours. Fine intensity and length with the ability to age 3-5 years. A super New World red.Prices:| USA | $37.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve 2008
Napa - Sonoma, California, United StatesAll Napa and Sonoma fruit contributes to the spicy, earthy, peppery, blackberry nose laced with liquorice coffee, meaty, curry, nutmeg aromas. The attack is typically KJ, ripe and supple but with full tannins and plenty of smoky, peppery, meaty, blackberry barnyard, black olive flavours with bits of vanilla and cedar. Good concentration and intensity but the finish is warm. Cellar this for three to five years and then serve with your favourite steak.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $47.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $36.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $52.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Faux Pas Rosé 2010
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Faux Pas is a mix of early harvested pinot noir and cabernet franc presumably fresh and crisp. The colour is eye of the partridge perfect, the nose bright and refreshing with hits of citrus, cranberries and ripe rhubarb. The finish is essentially dry and crisp. A home run for its lively fresh demeanour. A super pink for a variety of West coast bites.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Big Red Monster NV
California, United StatesExpect a rich open spicy, peppery nose with meaty, prune, blackberry jam, black cherry flavours and saddle leather aromas. The attack is soft, round and fresh; the palate warm with black raspberry, chocolate, spicy, white pepper, tobacco leaf flavours. Simple, solid style for lamb and pork.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Protocolo Tinto 2008
Vinos de la Tierra de Castilla, SpainFloral, savoury, meaty, tobacco, black cherry, carrot top, herbal aromas. Dry, round, supple palate with peppery, earthy, black olive, tobacco, leather, and prune and curry flavours. Good structure and intensity for food and a great price. Made with 100 per cent high-altitude tempranillo, grown in central Spain.Prices:| BC | $13.00 | 750ml |
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03 October 2011
92PTS
Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenhur Riesling Spatlese 2009
Mosel, GermanyThe Wehlener Sonnenuhr is another steep, rocky vineyard known to produce some of the most elegant and refined white wines in the world. The minerality is lively to say the least along with a wonderful crisp citrus and peach fruit. The Spätlese is a richer style with ginger and orange/apricot flavours on the palate but with fine acidity and balance. Intense but with elegance it is showing some mature subtle 'firne' or sous bois aromas. Impressive wine that will keep for a decade and more. Prices:| BC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Villa Wolf Pinot Gris 2010
Pfalz, GermanyThe Villa Wolf is made in a dry style by Mosel guru Ernie Loosen. There is no botrytis as Dr L. prefers to keep the style on the pure style with a bright aroma structure and maximum alcohol of some 12.5 to 13 percent. The vines are at lower elevation and grown on more sandy soil closer to the river. The style is fresh with honey and lemon aromas over citrus and bright acidity. It finishes clean with hints of dried fruits reminiscent of mango and melon. Prices:| BC | $17.98 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Dr. L Riesling 2010
Mosel, GermanyDr. L comes off the legendary slopes and slate of the Mosel and in 2010 the style is fresh, crisp and delicious with ripe, red apple fruit and limes all with the sugar dialled back. You will love its juicy mid-palate and fresh almost lemonade finish. A very friendly, entry-level riesling. It appears even drier in 2010 due to large level of acidity not seen in the Mosel since 1984. Stock up; this goes with everything.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Pinot Grigio 2010
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMission Hill continues to churn out a super fresh pinot gris in the grigio style mixing citrus and pear notes with bits lees and honey all in a clean refreshing style. Consistently well made with attention to detail. Good value here especially with shellfish and creamy seafood and or pasta dishes.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.15 | 750ml |
| NB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Koyle Syrah Royale Alto Colchagua 2008
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChilePeppery, savoury, tobacco, black plum, chocolate, vanilla, leather, floral, celery root aromas. Rich, ripe, round, supple palate with smooth tannins. Chocolate, black cherry, prune, peppery, vanilla, savoury, clove, blackberry, liquorice flavours. Well balanced with good fruit intensity.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Amelie Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2005
Suisun Valley, California, United StatesTobacco leaf, roasted bell pepper, carrot, green bean, herbal aromas. Soft, round, supple palate with leather, tobacco, herbal, bell pepper and prune flavours. Simple and elegant but very cool and green style.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Pinot Gris 2010
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBurrowing Owl has made a subtle and welcomed change to its 2010 pinot gris. The style is much crisper with mineral, tangerine citrus notes on the nose and palate. There's a hint of sweetness covered with lees, lemons, grass and grapefruit in the finish. It is tracking in the food-friendly direction extending its use to more than the summer. Try this with halibut and a fruit salsa.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
The Flying Winemaker Malbec 2008
Mendoza, ArgentinaMeaty, cedar, barnyard, tobacco, rooty, savoury, herbal aromas. Dry, round, slightly lean palate with herbal, tobacco leaf, meaty, menthol, barnyard, leather flavours. Needs more fruit and cleaner characters. Disappointing.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Koyle Syrah Reserva Alto Colchagua 2008
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileSpicy, meaty, garrigue, peppery, black cherry, eucalyptus, liquorice and earth aromas with a touch of tobacco and barnyard. Ripe, round, dry and supple with smoky, tobacco, meaty, peppery, menthol, black cherry, savoury, herbal flavours. Good solid effort.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Monster Vineyards Merlot 2008
British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, cherry, floral, meaty, leather, dried herb aromas. Ripe, round palate but very fresh with cherry, plum, herbal, peppery, floral, coffee, tobacco leaf flavours. Good fruit and juiciness but the finish is just a bit too tart. Try it with grilled flank steak.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cusumano Nero d'Avola 2009
Sicily, ItalyA new closure, Vino-Lok, keeps thing fresh not to mention elegant looking. Fragrant spicy, floral, cherry, licorice, meaty, tobacco aromas. Ripe, round, dry, elegant palate with very light tannins. Fresh cherry, plum, spicy, chocolate, tobacco, herbal, floral flavours. Good finesse and fruit for the money. A good wine for cold nights and hearty dishes.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Three Winds Grenache 2009
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceSpicy, liquorice, floral, light black cherry aromas. Round, supple, easy palate with fresh acidity. Black cherry, plum, liquorice, rooty, mineral flavours. A bit tart but has fresh fruit and some intensity to go with any meat dishes. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Three Winds Syrah 2010
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceMeaty, rooty, liquorice, gamey, leather, barnyard aromas. Round, dry, supple palate with fresh acidity. Liquorice, meaty, gamey, smoky, herbal, tobacco, black cherry flavours. Good intensity but somewhat reduced, give it a bit of air-time in a decanter to clean up the nose. Try this with lamb.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Diego Murillo Merlot 2010
Alto Valle del Río Negro, Rio Negro, Patagonia, ArgentinaSpicy, prune, chocolate, peppery, tobacco, floral, cherry aromas. Fresh, simple, soft palate with fresh acidity. Clean supple, chocolate, cherry, tobacco, earthy, spicy, minty flavours. Solid effort for the price.Prices:| BC | $10.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinotage 2009
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaExpect a weedy, tobacco leaf, peppery, savoury aromas. Dry, full and round but with lean peppery, smoky, celery, meaty, herbal flavours flecked with coffee and leather. The finish is very gamey with some light tannin to shed. Best with grilled meats.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Le Vieux Pin Petit Rouge Feenie's Blend 2009
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFeenie's blend refers to this Le Vieux Pin mix of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. A chocolate, espresso, cranberry nose with leafy, spicy notes. The style is austere with a tart, dry undertone. Cedar, cranberry, floral, leafy, herbal, tobacco flavours dominate the palate. A lean red wine that needs fatty foods for best results.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Monte Antico Toscano 2007
Santa Lucia, Pisa, Tuscany, ItalyMonte Antico is a proprietary label of Italian wine distributors Neil & Maria Empson. A sangiovese with minor amounts of merlot and cabernet sauvignon it has a peppery, tobacco, meaty, black olive, weedy nose. The palate is dry and elegant; a light-bodied style with fresh acidity and more earthy, meaty, tobacco, cherry, prune, rooty, clove flavours. A solid if rustic spaghetti red.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.90 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Toscolo Chianti 2009
Tuscany, ItalyA Neil Empson selection from the Pisa region, Toscolo is Renaissance word for 'Tuscan boy'. It has that Empson Bernabei palate - fragrant, elegant spicy, prune, peppery, dried cherry, floral aromas. The attack is round, dry and tart with sour cherry, floral, meaty, leather, tobacco, cooked carrot flavours. A more austere style for food.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.95 | 750ml |
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02 October 2011
90PTS
Sacred Hill Riflemans Chardonnay 2007
Hawkes Bay, North Island, New ZealandToasted nuts, peaches, and apricot skin conspire to draw you into this wine that over delivers at all levels. The palate is lively but intense and awash with lemony, mineral fruit flecked with orange and apricot highlights. The finish is long and persistent with nutty, mealy, lees undertones. A lovely ode to Burgundy albeit in a somewhat riper, exotic tone.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cameron Hughes Lot 188 Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Chalk Hill, Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe top Chalk Hill release by Cameron Hughes is Lot 188 in this case from the cool 2008 vintage. The addition of some malbec and merlot has helped to round out this red in the mouth and gives it a bit more definition. Look for a delicious five spice nuance and wild black fruit on the nose and palate. There is still some gritty youthful tannin in the back end of this linear red. Love the only 25 percent new oak that helps the wine better express its mountainside fruit. Good value.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Napa Valley, California, United StatesAnother fine rendition of the iconoclastic Caymus/Wagner cabernet style that is mostly no holds barred. There are eight Napa Valley sub-appellations in the mix and they include both the big, linear mountain fruit and the glossy, rich flavour profile of the valley floor. The '09 were picked at the bitter end of the growing season on November 5 but the wait was obviously worth it. It's not quite in the same league as the 2008 but the big, spicy, vanilla scented fruit is similar on the nose. The attack is rich, the texture supple with fine-grained tannins mixing with dark chocolate and black fruits all over the palate that persist well into the finish. Grilled steak is the pairing here. Drink through 2019.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $74.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $85.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $75.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $89.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 2007
Napa Valley, California, United StatesIt's been some time since we tasted a Beringer PR cab this good. Obviously 2007 was kind to Napa. If anything the normal-ish but dry growing season helped to reduce berry size and give this wine the extra added oomph that makes it special. Dense dark and delicious it has all the bells and whistles; this is Napa (Howell Mountain) opulence at its best. The six percent cabernet franc seems to add just the right spice and texture to complicate what has always been a very varietal cabernet. You can actually drink this now but it will be much better in 2017 and well beyond. Terrific wine.Prices:| BC | $159.00 | 750ml |
| US | $112.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $140.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $149.00 | 750ml |
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November 2011