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Tastings: February 2016
29 February 2016
89PTS
De Chanceny Crémant de Loire Brut Rosé NV
Loire, FranceThis pale pink fizz from the Loire is traditional method cabernet franc from 20-30 year old vines. Crisp and dry, the grape's herbal bramble peeks through, though tight, racy acidity, subtle pink florals, pink grapefruit and a thin cushion of Bing cherry fruit carry this bright, nimble brut. A nice riff of salted herbs close off the tight finish. Pass the tuna belly or salmon sashimi.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Haywire The Bub Bottle Fermented and Aged 2014
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaImpressive as ever, the 2014 vintage of The Bub once again unites pinot noir and chardonnay from cooler sites in Summerland and Oliver for this crisp, lean and racy fizz. Lightly salted nuts and lemon pith leads. The palate races with green apple, salted lemon, dry toast and ample tight stoniness. Lively acidity through to the crisp, vibrating finish, this is a lean bub that you should stock up on and pour liberally, especially with oysters. In youth and tight as a fist, but will continue to develop and relax with bottle age.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Bottega Gold Prosecco Spumante Brut NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyEven though the distinctively blinged out Bottega Gold doesn't carry DOCG on the label, it is entirely DOCG quality fruit. A quirk in the appellation laws dictate that the bottle has to be made of clear glass in a limited range of shades. Blingy, to be sure, but it's what inside that counts. Very concentrated nose, with yellow apple, ripe pear and light toast throughout the creamy, gently frothy palate, and a perfumed floral note that floats the finish. Presents on the upper sweetness level for Brut. Unlike most Charmat-produced Prosecco, Bottega Gold is made from Glera grapes, but unlike standard Proseccos, it is produced to order via a single fermentation in the winery's specialized pressurized cuve close tanks for forty days.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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25 February 2016
88PTS
Selbach-Oster Riesling Dry 2014
Mosel, GermanyTrue to label, this is a narrow and dry riesling, lemon driven with green apple and stone support. Tight, fresh and crisp, leesy interest cushions this racy fruit and plumps up the body. The acidity gobbles up the 7.3 g/l of residual sugar greedily, leaving this lean and tight and best suited to oysters or spot prawns.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Contadi Castaldi Satèn 2010
Brescia, Lombardy, ItalyIn the softer, silkier Satèn style, this 100 percent chardonnay is bright with sharp green apple acids, simply tempered with gentle white blossoms. There is a roundness and softness to the palate that implies delicacy, and 30-36 months on the lees to lend support. In the brut style, with sugars near to 12 g/l, this is a creamier, prettier style.Prices:| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Contadi Castaldi Zero 2011
Brescia, Lombardy, ItalyA 50/50 blend of chardonnay and pinot nero, unlike most Franciacorta because of the zero dosage. Sharp, crisp and bracing, with pithy acids and coarse mineral salts texturing the green apple, lemon and hay notes. Its structure and direction makes this quite attractive and refreshing.Prices:| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Contadi Castaldi Piñonero Natura 2009
Brescia, Lombardy, ItalyThe depth of pinot nero fruit is expressed here, bolstered by an average vine age of 25 years going in, and 60 months on the lees. Serious and structured, with crunchy acidity breaking up subtle cherry, red grapefruit pithiness and a fine bead of savoury spices. Firm and confident, with depth of flavours that will continue to merge and age gracefully over the next decade easy. Duck anyone?Prices:| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Errazuriz Max Reserva Syrah 2014
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileGrapes predominantly from the Max vineyards in the Aconcagua Valley are sprinkled with grapes from the cooler climate coastal Manzanar vineyard, resulting in this powerful, yet fresh, full-bodied syrah. Ripe and sun-sweetened black plum and medicinal cassis is textured with ample fragrant baking spices and studded cloves. Tannins are ripe and smoothed, with just enough toasty grip to remind you of the twelve months in French oak (20 percent new). Medicinal dark fruits and dusty dark cocoa powder linger on the finish of this youthful wine, one that packs a lot for its price. A fitting pour with braised lamb shank.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Max Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2014
Valle de Aconcagua, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThis Errazuriz MAX Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva is not to be confused with the Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon. Right... Well, at least the labels are different - this one is brand new. And according to the MAX label, this is sourced from the inland Aconcagua Valley and spent twelve months in French oak, the power of which is evident in the thick, full palate, dense with black cherry, inky dark florals and leather. Tannins are sticky and plentiful, finishing with a bitter cocoa powder dusting before a tsunami of heat (labelled 14 percent) on the end. Youthful and brash, but will calm a bit with a year in bottle. Best matched with equally powerful food, like fire grilled beef.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Burrowing Owl Merlot 2012
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDeep black plum, baking spices and dusky blackberry fill this southern Okanagan merlot, one that works hard to keep some minty, herbal freshness. Baked cherry pie, saddle, anise and balsamic factors in on the full bodied palate, one roughed up with savoury cedar sawn tannins and finishing with a swig of vanilla and a good deal of heat (feels like more than the 14.5 percent label). Best absorbed alongside rich braised lamb or beef.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
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24 February 2016
91PTS
BenMarco Malbec 2013
Mendoza, ArgentinaLove the freshness here on the nose. The colour is dark with ripe red fruits with a dash of blueberry and that typical but not overwhelming savoury undercoat. The textures are soft and dense with more black/red fruit flavours and spice, licorice and chocolate. A wine in transition (somewhere in the middle) from the old style to the fresher more mineral, red fruit, modern style. A gold medal winner at the 2016 Argentine Wine Awards and a solid value here in Canada. Try with steak and don’t be afraid to age this another three to five years.Prices:| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $23.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.25 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $23.25 | 750ml |
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23 February 2016
88PTS
Ormarine Picpoul de Pinet Les Pins De Camille 2014
Picpoul de Pinet, Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceA great summer sipper that makes almost any food better. Think of it as a squeeze of lemon on your food, assisted by notes of honey, quince and ginger. The palate is skinny but persistent again with a fresh, juicy lemon oil, honey, quince, grapefruit and ginger flavours. Great value and perfectly finished under screwcap. Serve with seafood chowder, grilled fish or a favourite charcuterie dish. Try something different.Prices:| BC | $14.79 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
The Hatch Hatchchild Cabernet Sauvignon Inkameep Vineyard 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom Osoyoos' Inkameep Vineyard, this cabernet sauvignon swears true to the grape's blackcurrant, black cherry, blackberry triad, though through a guise of soft, ripe and gently tannic structure. Subtle smoke, tobacco, black plum and a silken mouthfeel drape the palate, roughed up with a grippy tug of tannins, courtesy of 25 percent new French oak. A bitter swig of espresso lingers on the finish. Great start, shows promise for future vintages.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Costadilá Col Fundo NV
Veneto, ItalyThis will change your perception of Prosecco. "Col fundo" signifies ancestral method, and is a style that a number of independent, adventuresome producers are exploring in Prosecco. Costadilá has made this wine naturally - no added sulphites or sugar, and with one fermentation in bottle (as it was in past times). Dry, crisp and exacting, with ample oxidative notes, apple cider, delicate stone, dried grasses, white peach blossom and delicate shortbread notes. Very light frizzante bubbles (3.5 bars of pressure) to gently lift the 11 percent alcohol. The bottle is not disgorged and has fine sediment in the bottom of the bottle. The winemaker recommends decanting, but I prefer to gently tilt the bottle back and forth to mix the sedimentary lees throughout. The result is a cloudy pour, but one with texture and interest.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Valdo Superiore di Cartizze Oro Puro NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyFrom the single "cru" of Cartizze, this is a very fine, smooth and refined prosecco, entirely of glera and from vineyards at altitude between 300-400 metres. Light white florals, ample white peach and pear, with a fine sweetness (category Dry, which is actually quite sweet at 17-35 g/l RS). Pour at the end of the meal with delicate desserts.Prices:| BC | $37.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Haywire Waters and Banks Pinot Noir 2014
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWaters & Banks vineyard is a steep sloping Summerland vineyard comprised of limestone and granite. This pinot noir was wild yeast and whole bunch fermented and spent four weeks on skins before resting in concrete eggs, a regime under the watchful eye of international "rock star" (aka soil geek) Pedro Parra. The result is perfumed herbal raspberry, smoked branch, dusty desert sage and a textured silk palate, one with finely grippy veins of tannin and a delicately bright acidity. Pure fruited and youthful, with evident sous bois underlay, this is ideal for your fire grilled wild fowl or dark meat turkey. Track this vineyard and future vintages of this wine.Prices:| BC | $39.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
La Crema Chardonnay 2013
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThe Sonoma chardonnay pull sits fruit Chalk Hill, Los Carneros and the Russian River. The palate attack is a mix of butter, pears, peaches and melon with a squeeze of citrus in the finish. Almost all the wine sees some French oak ageing with only five percent stainless steel aged fruit blended in. The finish is clean with some mineral/chalky notes. Grilled chicken or creamy pasta dishes work well here.Prices:| BC | $27.49 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Hartford Court Pinot Noir Land's Edge Vineyard 2012
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThis pinot noir is sourced from the outer maritime limits or the ‘Land’s Edge’ of the Sonoma Coast AVA. Purity and cool notes dominate the nose and palate. Fog shrouded most mornings the nose is an entic9ing mix of red and black fruits with some floral stony bits. Its still Hartford warm (14.5) and spicy (100 percent French oak; 50 percent new) but slippery tannins and fresh acidity keep it all together.Prices:| BC | $53.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $54.00 | 750ml |
| US | $55.00 | 750ml |
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22 February 2016
88PTS
Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Rosé NV
Brescia, Lombardy, ItalyLight cherry, floral and quite fruity, this NV Rosé is 65/35 chardonnay/pinot nero that has spent 24-30 months on the lees. Red apple and summer berries lead the palate, one textured with coarser red fruit. This carries just enough structure to pour alongside tuna tataki or lox.Prices:| ON | $33.50 | 750ml |
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19 February 2016
88PTS
Haywire The Bub Bottle Fermented and Aged 2014
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe blend is pinot noir and chardonnay picked from cooler sites in Summerland and Oliver. The goal is to make a fresh, crisp lean style fizz that works with tapas like bites. The palate is a mix of citrus, sea salt and mineral notes mixed with green apples and just a hint of toasted croissant. The finish is vibrant with excellent acidity and what seems to be a trademark lean Bub style. The wine will unwind in time but for now may we suggest freshly shucked oysters.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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16 February 2016
84PTS
Rivani Prosecco Frizzante NV
Veneto, ItalySimple and fruity Prosecco DOC, with off dry peach, pear and floral notes. Though the screw cap makes for uber-easy access, it comes at the coast of bubbles. Whatever fizz was within, is gone pretty much instantaneously in the glass, as is the finish. That said, if you're looking for an easy value wine to chill down and use in sangria, here you go.Prices:| BC | $12.19 | 750ml |
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15 February 2016
88PTS
Tolloy Pinot Grigio 2014
Trentino- Alto-Adige, ItalyWines like this - from the foothills of the Dolomites - prove that Italian pinot grigio doesn't have to be boring and forgettable. Tight and lean, with almonds, meadow, bitter lemon, medicinal herbs and quiet white florals riding along a river bed of stones. Crisp and bright, subtle and lovely with spring risotto or shellfish.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Umani Ronchi Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi Classico (Exclamation Point) 2013
Marche, ItalyYoung, bright and fresh, the oil slicked verdicchio streams salty herbs, almonds and meadow grasses on a medium bodied palate. Three months in stainless steel preserves the bright fruit, while zippy green apple acidity lifts it. Best when not chilled right down. Drink now, with grilled or fresh seafood.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Alois Lageder Lagrein 2011
Trentino- Alto-Adige, ItalyDense, herbal and leathery, lagrein finds its true home in the mountainous Alto Adige region of Northern Italy. Five generations of the Lageder family have been farming grapes here, so you have to trust they know what works. With vines ranging from fifteen to fifty years old, and a seventeen-month rest in concrete, it's a promising glimpse. Like this - a richer red, freshened with mountain air, and built around dusky mulberry, herbal, black raspberry and red currants with a firm, leathery structure and furry tannins. Thorny florals and cinnamon bark spicing linger on the finish.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Torres Celeste Crianza 2012
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainThis tempranillo from high altitude vineyards in Ribera Del Duero takes its name from the heavens, seemingly within reach at 895 metres high. The label is a depiction of the constellations seen if you look straight up when you’re standing in the vineyard. And this intense, stylish and modern red is as full and potent as the night sky. Heady blackberry, cassis jam, and ripe black plums are veined with peppery spice, potent espresso and a lick of vanilla. Ample ripe tannins support the full palate, and the year in American and French oak is highly evident. Pour with rich braised lamb to best some of the density and heat on the finish.Prices:| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $23.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $28.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ca' del Bosco Franciacorta Cuvée Prestige NV
Lombardy, ItalyRich, doughy and concentrated, this blend of chardonnay, pinot nero and pinot bianco commands attention with its ample heady autolytic character. Twenty percent vintage wine and 28 months on the lees amps up the volume and density, while a persistent bead of acidity works overtime to lift the heft. Baked apple, brioche, nougat and lemon are supported with creamy mousse and fine spice through the lingering finish. Confident presence and rich from top to bottom, this would pair with mains such as roasted partridge with élan.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $33.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $48.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $50.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Ferghettina Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 2006
Lombardy, ItalyA serious, structured bubble, with 80/20 chardonnay/pinot noir spending 69 months on the lees. Ample brioche and lees here, laced with ripe pear, red apple, almonds, and orange blossom. The full, concentrated palate is sheared with pithy acidity, a well played foil to the richness in the mouth. If you're looking for a full, rich well built, aged (and age worthy - another ten years) traditional method sparkling, here you go.Prices:| BC | $57.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Cavalleri Franciacorta DOCG Brut Blanc de Blancs NV
Brescia, Lombardy, ItalyThe Cavalleri family have been landowners in Erbusco since 1450, and began this winery in 1905. This chardonnay has approximately 20 percent reserve wines and 10 percent fermentation in oak (large casks and older barriques) providing a comforting bolster of lees to this finessed, elegant fizz. White flowers, yellow apple, subtle hazelnut and stone lead the medium-bodied palate, lifted with pithy, chiselled acidity.Prices:| BC | $47.00 | 750ml |
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13 February 2016
92PTS
Donnafugata Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria 2011
Sicily, ItalyA rare dessert wine made with sun-dried zibbibo grapes (akin to muscat of Alessandria) from the tiny volcanic island of Pantelleria, south west of Sicily. Twelve different sites, soils and altitudes made up this complexed blend. This elegant & honeyed nectar is dense with perfumed bergamot, golden raisins, heady quince, ripe nectarine and dried apricots. A river of tangerine blossom and potent orange oils run throughout the syrupy palate - one full bodied and lush, but with strikingly good acid to balance. Exceptional length, exceptional sweetness, and both best enjoyed with a cheese plate or Italian olive oil cake.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 375ml |
| AB | $38.00 | 375ml |
| ON | $49.00 | 375ml |
| QC | $32.00 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Masi Angelorum Recioto Classico 2009
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyRecioto, the sweet wine of the Ancient Romans (Reticum) is transformed three different ways by Masi. Angelorum is the traditional version, where corvina, rondinella and molinara, are picked in hillside sites to be laid out for drying (appassimento) on bamboo racks during the winter months. The fully raisinated fruit is then pressed, fermented, aged for one year in Slavonian oak and turned into this - a dusty, mid-sweet and earthy sweet wine, harkening raisins, dried figs, dried cherry, pecan and subtle caramel. Tannins are sticky, and the acidity moderate enough to just carry the sweetness. Pair with panettone, sharp cheese, or roasted walnuts or pecans.Prices:| MB | $25.25 | 375ml |
| BC | $30.00 | 375ml |
| QC | $30.00 | 375ml |
| AB | $31.50 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Joseph Drouhin Cote de Beaune Rouge 2013
Côte de Beaune, Côte d'Or, Burgundy, FranceFrom vines on the Joseph Drouhin estate as well as younger vines of Clos des Mouches and other Premier Crus of Beaune that have been declassified. Forest, moss, a puff of smoke, raspberries and red currants flow on the palate, broken up with a firm rasp of wood tannins and smoked stone (10-15 months in French oak, 10 percent of which is new). Young leather and sweet spice closes out this rustic red Burgundy, and would welcome grilled pheasant or guinea fowl.Prices:| BC | $43.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2010
Veneto, ItalyDried cherry, worn leather, dried figs and dust - those are the notes that green upon first sniff of this Amarone Della Valpoicella Classico. The ripe, burnt sugar sweetness picks up on the dense palate, where charred marshmallow, Christmas cake and cracked cloves enter in, as do whiffs of VA. Tannins are ripe, round and sticky, and acidity is moderate enough to draw the density to the bitter espresso, bitter chocolate finish. A distinct style, corvina, rondinella and molinara grapes are dried for four months prior to pressing, and the fermented, raisinated juice is aged for three years in Slavonian oak barrels. Pour now with dried fruit sauced hearty meat dishes.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $57.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $48.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $55.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $48.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $49.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Mastroberardino Radici Taurasi 2008
Campania, ItalyRadici means 'roots' in Italian, and references the winery's intent to preserve the local grapes here in the volcanic soils of this DOCG in Campania. Potent leather, ink, wild herbs, deep brambles and dark earth continue into thick dried cherries, ample medicinal notes and hint of sweet, dried figs. Tannins are ripe and sticky and this carries much heat on the finish. Two years in French and Slovenian wood and one more in bottle before this was unleashed, and it wears its time well. Pair with big roasted game dishes or long braised lamb shank.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $54.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mastroberardino Aglianico Campania 2012
Campania, ItalyRipe sweet brambles, raspberry, leather, anise and scrubby rock roses fill the generous mouth of this aglianico, influenced by both the volcanic soils of Campania and the maritime influence. Velvet tannins support the dense, fleshy, ripe fruit, shading the full body with a dusky, Mediterranean-sun overlay. Moderately by stony acidity, this would make for a lovely pour with braised lamb with demi or a rich, meaty ragú or veal lasagne.Prices:| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Vietti Nebbiolo Perbacco 2012
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyThis Langhe nebbiolo is all declassified cru sites, aged for less than the minimum requirements, and therefore doesn't qualify for the Barolo DOCG. All the better for us - the same delicious nebbiolo, at a stellar price. Decant this and allow the 35-year-old vines some breathing room, and the savoury dried florals, leather, dried medicinal cherry and bramble to emerge. Firm, iron-dusted tannins harness everything in tightly, and though the finish carries heat and some cherry dryness (it's still young - give it time), its nothing that a mushroom risotto or truffled chicken won't easily cure. Fantastic value.Prices:| BC | $43.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Riserva Rocca Guicciarda 2012
Tuscany, ItalyPreviously, Rocca Guicciarda was one of Ricasoli's most important estates. Today, it is the name of the estate's Chianti Classico Riserva. Predominantly sangiovese, with merlot and cabernet sauvignon rounding out the blend, this sees fifteen months in barrique and tonneaux, the wood aging very evident in this strident riserva. Worn leather, old paper and dried cherry lead this medium bodied red, one roughed up by those rustically hewn wood tannins and ending with bitter, drying black cherry and blackest espresso. Not the friendliest, in the most traditional of styles.Prices:| QC | $28.30 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ruggeri Giustino B. Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore 2013
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyRinged with crisp, pithy pink grapefruit acidity and tight minerality, this extra dry prosecco is sourced from the hilltop ridges bordering the Dolomites. Refined and bright, with green apple and orchard pear, this carries the 16 g/l RS very well, leaving only pithy citrus in its wake. Pair with salads or sashimi.Prices:| AB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ruggeri Santa Stefano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Dry NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyFresh peach, pear and pink grapefruit blossoms fill the mouth of this 'Dry' prosecco from the high-altitude sub-zone of Santo Stefano. The bracing acidity handles it very well, leaving an impression of mandarin orange. From one of the steeper and higher sub-zones in Valdobbiadene, most of the Santo Stefano fruit goes to the Ruggeri. The residual sugar in this prosecco ranges from 17 to 32g/l making it more of a patio sipper preferably with panettone or even fruit but you could pair it up with some spicy Asian rolls.Prices:| AB | $32.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Pirramimma Shiraz 2012
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaThis supple, dark cocoa lined shiraz calls McLaren Vale, with its dense blueberry, dark floral musk, hint of cool mint and dusty tobacco character. Ripe and powdery black fruits lend heft to the full palate, weighing a few grams more than the moderate acidity can bear. Chewy tannins take this to a chocolate mint finish. Lamb chops with mint sauce please.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $29.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $32.00 | 750ml |
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12 February 2016
89PTS
Bodegas Gurrutxaga Txakoli 2013
SpainTxakoli is classic in the pintxos bars of San Sebastien and the Basque region, and classically (brilliantly) poured from above (at least 5 inches) into the glass to allow the wine some air, some bubbles and a lot of show. This deliciously authentic Txakoli is a light and brisk blend of predominantly hondarrabi zuri, with a touch of hondarrabi beltza, folle blanche, petit corbou, and cabernet franc. Saline and astutely ringing of the sea (grapes were sourced near the Bay of Biscay in Bizkaia), this bone dry white rips with lemon pith, crunchy green apples, dried herbs, subtle fennel and a faint beeswax savouriness. Firm, bamboo lean structure, with ample flakey sea salt and minerality echoing the sea and making the mouth water for savoury bites - and another cold glass. At a refreshing 11 percent alcohol and this much seriously gulpable fun, why not?Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Jim Barry The Cover Drive Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Coonawarra, South Australia, AustraliaThis cabernet sauvignon bats it out of the park (how's that for a sports reference?) for nailing its Coonawarra character. Tobacco, dusty red raspberry, a hint of medicinal cherry and a pretty floral vein flow through this medium bodied red. Supple red tannins support the concentration handily, with a welcome nudge of grippy tannins easing the crunchy corners. Brisk acidity and a stony, faintly iron underlay props up the whole through the finish, feeling slightly hotter than the 13.5 percent labelled. Regardless, pouring this with pork chops will earn you a home run (do they have those in cricket?) Ed note: that's a six, or a boundary six.Prices:| BC | $27.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Black Sage Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is a bold, dusky, wood-dominant red that shouts its arrival : the famed Black Sage Vineyard in the southern Okanagan. One year in French and American oak overwhelm the sun-ripened fruit, leaving grippy, chocolate powdery tannins and dense, winter baking spices linger on the palate. Full bodied and BBQ-purposed, though rustic and punchy.Prices:| BC | $21.79 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Adega on 45th Manuel NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaManuel is a non vintage blend of - unknown red grapes the back label and the website recommend cellaring for up to seven years. Ample disconnect. Sweet black liquorice, blackberries and blueberry gummies dominate, with a juicy, ripe and plummy-plump cushion of spicy black fruit building the base. Full bodied and spicy bold red, though heated through the finish, and ready to pour if you're looking for a ripe, perfumed and vanilla-licked red.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Evolve Cabernet Merlot 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEvolve is the latest label from the Okanagan's McWatters clan. Here, ripe, sweet and plush black fruit is roughed up with rustic wood hewn tannins and sweet spices. Cedar, bitter espresso and heat linger on the finish, welcoming pairing with rich meaty ragu and dense noodles.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Ganton & Larson Prospect Winery Haynes Barn Merlot Cabernet 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA fairly consistent BC value brand, the Prospect label gives affordable Okanagan-grown wine at an affordable price. The Haynes Barn is a deep, dusky and ripe black fruited blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Twine, tart cherry and downy wood spice sit on a bed of thorny blackberry and chewy tannins. Rustic and hot, this is best served with grilled burgers.Prices:| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Cabernet Merlot 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIn my mind, the best BC value brand out there, consistently sound from year to year, and representing the Okanagan in an approachable way. The Cabernet Merlot carries the twiney, rope-hewn black fruit of Okanagan cabernet sauvignon alongside black plum, bitter black cherry, tobacco and toasted wood. Tannins are chewy and sticky, propping up the dense sun-ripened fruit. Crack and drink now with grilled meat.Prices:| SK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
CedarCreek Pinot Gris 2014
British Columbia, CanadaHarvested over a month from September 22 to October 20 the 2014 gris is both tank (87) and barrel (13) fermented. The fruit comes off their east Kelowna, Upper CedarCreek Vineyard. Love the fresh vibrancy to the concentrated palate. This year only five grams of residual sugar made it into the blend, and the finished wine is better for it. Love the pear, orange zest, almond, white peach and brisk acidity, all bathed in a savoury dried herb and lemon peel finish and buoyed by a pillow of fine, creamy lees. Chicken, halibut or mussels will all work, and soak up some of the warmth on the 13.9 percent finish.Prices:| BC | $17.79 | 750ml |
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11 February 2016
87PTS
Black Sage Vineyard Shiraz 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh cracked black pepper and perfumed violets lead this ripe, full bodied shiraz. Dense, sweet blackberry and perfumed musk dominate the full palate, woven with rich plum compote, vanilla, candied black liquorice and heady violets. Tannins are sueded and a bit grippy, and the finish is suave and spicy; will appeal to those looking for a ripe, full bodied and peppery southern Okanagan red.Prices:| BC | $20.89 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Purato Nero d'Avola Organic 2013
Sicily, ItalyFriendly, solid, fresh organic red for mid-week spaghetti/pizza dinners. Expect an open aromatic menthol red fruit nose with pepper highlights. The attack is similar with more soft red fruit including bits of red liquorice and savoury strawberries. Ready to drink and a perfect foil to grilled chicken or vegetable pasta dishes or a mushroom pizza. Stock up.Prices:| BC | $17.49 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.42 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Umani Ronchi CaSal di Serra Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2015
Marche, ItalySo reliable the UR verdicchio is bright fresh yet round with a nutty fruity buttery nose. The attack is fresh but with some roundness butter, peaches flecked with guava and a dose of minerality. The finish is clean and refreshing. Delicious cleansing style white that pairs well with seafood, pesto and vegetables. Good value too.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Casa Silva Cool Coast Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileLovely fresh lean cool South American Chilean sauvignon blanc from coastal Colchagua. Bright fresh nectarine skin jalapeno and tinned asparagus. The attack is juicy with lemon lime, dried herbs and mineral notes with a salty burnt caramel finish. Grilled fish or sushi work here.Prices:| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Errazuriz Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc 2015
Region de Aconcagua, ChileErrazuriz is doing a fine job with sauvignon as evident by the value is in this tasty white with fresh asparagus, spring peas and medicinal lemon peel ring on the nose. The fruit is all Aconcagua Costa and it comes refreshed by the proximity of the cold Pacific Ocean and a little altitude. Clearly treated at a level far above its amazing value price point. Bright tropical fruit, melon and ample spicing glide on a leesy, creamy mid, before a spiced pineapple rind on the finish.Prices:| BC | $12.29 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Evolve Pinot Blanc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEvolve is the new Okanagan label from a very old Okanagan name - McWatters. Harry's daughter Christa Lee Bond oversees this line, meant to be affordable and approachable. A basket of orchard fruit here - white peach and pear dominant - on a pillow of creamy, silky lees. No oak here to mar up the fruit - just some spiced yellow mac apples on the finish. Spicy. Ready to drinkPrices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Calliope Viognier 2014
British Columbia, CanadaGinger ale and baked pear on the nose intensify on the palate, where butter, orange creamsicle, melon gummies and tropical fruit rule the off-dry palate. Gingersnap spicing linger on the finish. Simple, soft, round and easy. Serve with spicy foods.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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10 February 2016
88PTS
Giusti Asolo Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalySourced from vineyards in the hills of Asolo, this pretty prosecco is extra dry, though it's not overtly noticeable though the pithy pink grapefruit acids. Peach fuzz, red apple, pear blossom and gentle acacia fill the palate, one cushioned by the sugars and streamed by the high acidity, especially when kept nice and chilled. Melon and prosciutto, here you are.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rocca di Montemassi Rocca di Montemassi Maremma 2013
Maremma, Tuscany, ItalyMade by winemaker Stefano Ferrante in collaboration with famed Frenchman Denis Dubourdieu, Rocca di Montemassi is a Maremma red blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot and syrah. The four varieties are vinified separately in stainless including a 30-day maceration followed by 12 months in first and second year French oak. The nose has a warm Mediterranean demeanour with black and blue fruits over a savoury earthy mineral base. An elegant style red perfect for pork tenderloin, grilled steaks or any mushroom pasta dish.Prices:| BC | $42.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore 2010
Tuscany, ItalyThis Bolgheri red is a 45/45/10 mix of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc. The colour is deep, the nose a savoury, menthol, balsamic mix with floral notes. Identical palate impressions with dry red fruits with mineral and spicy notes flecked with roasted nuts and mushrooms. The blend is aged in mostly new French oak barriques for 18 months and then aged another year in bottle. It is a bit of a bruiser that needs more time in the bottle or a piece of grilled beef to soften the ages.Prices:| QC | $65.50 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Il Marroneto Brunello di Montalcino Selezione Madonna delle Grazie 2009
Montalcino, Siena, Tuscany, ItalyBalsamic, meaty, ash, black cherry, tobacco, sausage, licorice, light vanilla aromas. Full, dry, warm palate with some grainy tannins and round acidity. Black cherry jam, coffee, peppery, vanilla, plum, meaty, licorice and tobacco ash flavours. Young with good fruit and concentration but rustic and lifted in style. Now with meat or 2-5 years.Prices:| BC | $82.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $100.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2010
Tuscany, ItalyGamey, ash, black cherry, vanilla, peppery, tobacco, smoky, menthol, licorice aromas with a touch of curry leaf. Fresh, round, dry, full palate with fresh acidity and some grainy tannins. Big black cherry, black berry fruit with vanilla, cedar, chocolate, meaty, peppery, ash and licorice flavours. Finish has a bit of cola and blood orange. Good balance and intensity with the ability to improve over the next 3-5 years. Good value in a delicious Brunello.Prices:| BC | $54.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $68.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $45.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $55.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $45.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Torre Fosca Brunello di Montalcino 2010
Montalcino, Siena, Tuscany, ItalyGamey, smoky, black berry, leather, licorice, savoury, tobacco aromas with a bit of resin and garrigue spice. Dry, tight, full palate with light grainy tannins and juicy acidity. Black cherry, earthy, ash, licorice, plum, and tobacco flavours with a touch of leather and chocolate with thyme on the finish. Youthful but restrained style with fruit that should improve over the next 2-4 years. Not a big wine but balanced for food. Good value for Brunello.Prices:| BC | $41.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2010
Tuscany, ItalyFloral, black cherry, sausage meat, peppery, licorice root, tobacco, resin and savoury herb aromas. Ripe, round, elegant, dry and juicy palate with light, grainy tannins. Smoky, plum, black cherry, meaty, black pepper, tobacco, resin, cardamom and almond flavours with a touch of coffee. Very good intensity and balance but still youthful. Drink with grilled lamb or keep for 3-5 years. New plantings and clonal work done almost two decades ago are paying off at Ruffino's many estates; the Ducale Oro is an 85/15 blend of sangiovese with merlot and colorino.Prices:| BC | $44.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $44.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rocca delle Macie Roccato 2009
Tuscany, ItalyOpen inviting cedar, tobacco nose with black cherry, coffee, vanilla, and savoury, peppery, black olive, mint and meaty, sausage aromas. Dry, round, full, suave palate with ripe tannins with rich coffee, milk chocolate, savoury, peppery, black olive, cassis, balsamic, meaty, cigar flavours. Good intensity with some youthful tannins on the finish to round out over the next few years. Well done. Age this seven to ten years and serve with rich dishes. Roccato is a 50/50 mix of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon all picked by hand and vinified separately aged in French oak barriques some 9 and 13 months. Once blended it goes back into 35 hectolitre barrels from another bottle.Prices:| BC | $43.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $46.00 | 750ml |
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09 February 2016
94PTS
Two Hands Coach House Block Shiraz Single Vineyard Seppeltsfield Road Greenoch 2006
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaLike the winery the wine is still youthful. At Two Hands site specificity as noted by the source a single vineyard along Seppeltsfield Road at Greenoch in the Barossa Valley. Almost a decade down the road this shiraz has aged gracefully which is no mean feat given its 16.4 alcohol base. The nose is a pleasant mix of chocolate, dark fruits and spice. The attack is supple, round and now fully mature plum jam, licorice and more baking spices. As mentioned the balanced is perfect. Served with braised lamb dishes or old soft cheeses for best results.Prices:| ON | $105.55 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tedeschi Maternigo Valpolicella Superiore 2012
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe Maternigo property is large but this ‘cru’ comes off a specific plot of dirt known as the Impervio or steep sloped vineyard. The property is organically farmed but not certified. The mix is 40/30/30 corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella matured for 14 months in 20/25 hl Slavonian oak casks and another six months in bottle. Look for intense aromas of redcurrants and plums flecked with peppery, orange peel, cardamom aromas with a touch of almond. There is a freshness here with ripe fruit, big plum, cherry and anise flavours with a hint of minerality. Fine concentration here and perfect foil to red meats, game, dry-textured, mature cheeses. This could easily age more than a decade in bottle.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $39.99 | 750ml |
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08 February 2016
89PTS
Tedeschi Amarone della Valpolicella 2009
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyEarthy, plum jam, prune, coffee, gamey, tobacco, licorice root and Christmas cake aromas. Ripe, rich, juicy, slightly tannic and sweet palate. Raisin, black cherry jam, sage, peppery, chocolate, black licorice and ash flavours fill the palate. A more modern, fruity style to drink now - 5 years.Prices:| BC | $48.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $50.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $40.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $45.50 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Allegrini Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2011
Verona, Veneto, ItalyBlack cherry, prune, meaty, savoury, floral, tobacco and black licorice aromas with a bit of orange peel and sage. Round, full, suave, juicy palate with ripe tannins and some sweetness. On the palate there is lots of chocolate and black plum jam with peppery, strawberry, savoury, poultry spice and game flavours with a waxy, vanilla and coffee note. Lots of intensity here with structure but definitely on the sweeter side. Will age for 5-10 years. The winery suggest game, roasted and grilled meats, casseroles and well matured cheeses as classic matches or pair it with exotic sweet and sour dishes. It is therefore also perfect with Asian and middle-eastern dishes.Prices:| BC | $93.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $100.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $119.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $90.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Masi Modello Rosso delle Venezie 2012
Verona, Veneto, ItalyLight floral, sausage meat, smoky, peppery, black cherry, resin and saddle leather aromas with a black olive note. Round, fresh, soft palate with a hint of sweetness. Smoky, leather, savoury, meaty, olive, plum and cocoa flavours. Simple, modern style yet a bit rustic for entry level consumers.Prices:| NS | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $15.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.50 | 750ml |
| BC | $13.29 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Masi Campofiorin 2011
Verona, Veneto, ItalyBlack cherry, peppery, gamey, leather, chocolate, licorice and floral aromas with a bit of sage. Round, smooth, fresh palate with a hint of tannins. Cherry, plum, licorice, savoury herb, tobacco and leather flavours. Well balanced, simple, forward style with fruit. Drink now.Prices:| BC | $19.30 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $23.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.50 | 750ml |
| NB | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $22.50 | 750ml |
| YK | $23.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tenuta Sant'Antonio Monti Garbi Valpolicella Superiore Ripassa 2010
Veneto, ItalyEarthy, balsamic, black cherry jam, floral, gamey, coffee, pruney, licorice and dried herb aromas. Fresh, round, juicy palate with light tannins but light concentration also. Cocoa, prune, meaty, balsamic, coffee, peppery, rooty flavours. Easy going, pasta wine.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Tormaresca Trentangeli Castel del Monte 2012
Puglia, ItalyTormaresca is an Antinori project in Puglia bringing modern attitudes to ancient grapes. This DOC Rosso Castel del Monte DOC is a 70/20/10 blend of organic aglianico, cabernet sauvignon and syrah grown on Bocca di Lupo estate in Minervino Murge in the province of Bari-Andria-Trani. The must is fermented in conical stainless steel tanks for 15 days. The wine is aged 12 months in French and Hungarian oak barrels and eight months in bottle. Love its rich, silky textures, spiced black fruits, raisins and liquorice and the freshness that breathes vitality into the finish. Perfect for lamb osso buco.Prices:| BC | $17.49 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Masseria Altemura Sasseo 2013
Salento, Puglia, ItalyClassic southern Italian full bodied red with rich, warm, pruny fruit notes mixed with plums and meaty sausage note. The palate is similar with more warm raisiny fruit streaked with black cherries and tobacco Round long and warm we enjoyed this with a ground chicken tomato sauce and pasta. Solid red wine value in Ontario. BC is another story.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Allegrini Palazzo della Torre 2012
Verona, Veneto, ItalyOpen savoury, plum, black cherry, sage, licorice, cassis, peppery, tobacco leaf aromas with a smoky, meaty note. Fresh, juicy, dry palate with very light tannins and slightly tart acidity. Plum, cherry, riparian, earthy, spicy, olive flavours with a bit of chocolate and vanilla. Lighter but elegant style with solid fruit core to drink now.Prices:| BC | $27.69 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva 2010
Sardinia, ItalyWe liked last year’s edition but the 2010 may even be better. Cannonau is the Sardinian grape said to be the forerunner of grenache; in this case grown on clay and sandy soils. The grapes are aged for two years in large Slavonian oak barrels before spending several more months in bottle. The nose is fresh with that special Mediterranean warmth and even more plummy/raspberry cherry fruit aromas and flavours. The palate is balanced with a juicy, dry, fruity, savoury, cherry flavour throughout. Impressive for the price. Serve with roast chicken or mushroom dishes.Prices:| BC | $21.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.90 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Montresor Capitel della Crosara Valpolicella Ripasso 2013
Veneto, ItalySavoury, smoky, meaty, peppery, tobacco, black cherry, balsamic, olive and cedar aromas. Dry, fresh, elegant but juicy palate. Palate is a cooler, forward style with black cherry, licorice, peppery, meaty, prune, tobacco and herb flavours. Ready to drink for any pasta.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Masi Grandarella Refosco Delle Venezie Appassimento 2011
Verona, Veneto, ItalyBig ripe black cherry, plum jam nose with coffee, tobacco, chocolate, orange spice, licorice and herb aroma. Full, round, dry, juicy palate with light tannins and more chocolate, plum and strawberry jam flavours streaked with licorice, pepper, olive and resin flavours. Ready to drink with any lamb or fowl dish. Has good length and intensity that may improve over the next few years. Well made.Prices:| BC | $26.29 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Passori Rosso Veneto 2014
Veneto, ItalyRipe, rich and concentrated, the Passori is a blend of later harvested merlot and corvina fermented to medium dryness and retaining the velvet underbelly of intentional residual sugar. Dried plum, fig, prune is bolstered by time in oak, which provides a frame for the rich fruit and a spicy counterpoint to the heady concentration. Plush tannins carry a drying grip while this full bodied Venetian holds the 14 percent alcohol easily, making a pair for richer braised lamb casseroles or sharp cheese plates.Prices:| BC | $17.99 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Tommasi Arele Parziale Appassimento Rosso IGT 2013
Veneto, ItalyCherry, savoury, smoky leather, resin, gamey, chocolate and olive aromas with a bit of celery salt. Fresh, round, easy palate with light tannins and a hint of sweetness. Peppery, tobacco, resin, leather, herb and plum flavours followed by a touch of licorice. Easy going pizza and pasta wine.Prices:| MB | $22.50 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $23.25 | 750ml |
| BC | $21.79 | 750ml |
| NS | $23.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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05 February 2016
88PTS
Umberto Cesari Sangiovese Romagna Riserva 2011
Emilia-Romagna, ItalyThe Romagna style is on display here with a attractive, open sweet entry, not sweet-sweet but with ripeness that feeds into a savoury earthy mocha coffee flavoured wine with hit of wood toast. The finish is firm with good acidity, a hint of balsamic and more mushroom. Try this with a tomato-based meat sauce – Bolognese perhaps?Prices:| BC | $21.79 | 750ml |
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04 February 2016
88PTS
Nino Franco Rustico Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Brut NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyNino Franco was founded in 1919 and is one of the oldest wineries in Valdobbiadene, and the winery is now overseen by the forth Franco generation. Fresh and juicy, with golden apple, white peach, tight pear and subtle hay. Lime pith acidity cuts the residual sugar handily, leaving the finish crisp and dry.Prices:| BC | $22.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Col de' Salici Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry 2014
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyCrisp and fresh, with the residual sugar of Extra Dry (12-17 g/l) handled well by brisk acidity. White flowers, candied grapefruit peel, lemon pith , white peach and ample pear stream to a refreshingly bright finish.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Bottega Il Vino dei Poeti Prosecco Brut 2015
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThis brut Prosecco DOC gobbles up the 12 g/l RS pretty handily. Red apple skin, white flowers and peach lead with foamy mousse and a fuller, creamy body. Subtle almonds on the finish. Consistent, accessible, widely available.Prices:| BC | $17.29 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Canaletto Prosecco Vino Spumante DOC Brut NV
Veneto, ItalyMeadow herbs, hay and grass weave through the typical perfumed florals and yellow apples in this Prosecco DOC. The mouthfeel is soft and the mousse frothy, with residual sugar cut with ringing citrus acidity. Gooseberry and green herbs close out the short finish.Prices:| BC | $17.89 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sartori Erfo Prosecco DOC Brut NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyLight flowers, pear, peach and red apple on this Prosecco DOC. On the upper end of the Brut spectrum, though the sweetness is well countered with a brisk candied citrus acidity. A soft, creamy palate finishes with a brisk grapefruit freshness. Simplicity.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Valdo Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Superiore Marca Oro Extra Dry NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThis consistent extra dry Prosecco comes from the heartland of the region, Valdobbiadene DOCG. Candied grapefruit acidity gobbles up the sugar fairly well in this extra dry style (from 12-17 g/l RS), leaving an impression of sugared pear, candy apple, juicy peach, white flowers and candy necklace.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Foss Marai Prosecco Superiore Guia Millesimato 2014
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe steep hilled vineyard was first planted in the early 1900s by winemaker Carlo Biasiotto's grandfather. A garden of white flowers and fine, green apple in this finessed Brut. Brisk pithy pink grapefruit acidity snaps on the finish. A delicate, feminine style.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bisol Jeio Brut NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe Bisol family has been farming the famed hill of Cartizze since the 16th century. This, their lower entry tier of wines, is named for Desiderio Bisol, the current winemaker. Glera makes up the majority of this cuvée, accompanied by verdiso, pinot bianco and chardonnay. Crisp and bright, with the 9 g/l RS gobbled up by crunchy acidity. An appealingly dry riff of peach fuzz lingers on the finish.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $23.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Cinzano Prosecco NV
Veneto, ItalyExpect an aromatic, medium dry sparkling wine made from white muscatel grapes, not the normal glera. Fresh and balanced the sweetish peach baked apple fruit is offset by enough acidity to keep it all together. Ready to drink. Very affordable aromas. Simple easy-sipping summer-style fizz.Prices:| BC | $11.29 | 750ml |
| MB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Mionetto Prosecco Treviso Brut NV
Veneto, ItalyClassic fresh citrus, peach, floral nose with bits of peach and honey. The attack is fresh, with clean off-dry fruit with notes of green apple, honey and almonds. Juicy fun and off-dry you can serve it with spicy, prawns dishes or serve solo well chilled.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.99 | 750ml |
| PEI | $20.99 | 750ml |
| NS | $19.95 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.98 | 750ml |
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03 February 2016
92PTS
Stonestreet Chardonnay 2013
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United StatesWow. This is a delicious bottle of chardonnay that comes off four key Stonestreet vineyard sites blended for complexity and flavour. We love the rich understated style, the citrus, tangerine oil notes the pear, honey, smoke and toast and perfect wisp of caramel in the background to remind you its from California. Mountain chardonnay at its bests. Impressive New World style with an Old World Twist. Love this vintage.Prices:| BC | $42.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
La Crema Chardonnay 2014
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United StatesThere is only 18 percent new oak in the mix here and the wine only spend seven months in wood with the exception of a small amount of juice kept in stainless steel to maintain freshness. Winemaker Elizabeth Grant-Douglas speaks to the wines Meyer lemon scents you can add butter, pear, orange/honey, baked apple flavours with a delicious, spicy mineral note that draws you into every glass. In 2014 the weather was almost perfect giving the fruit the capacity to go through a malolactic fermentation and sur-lie ageing complete with hand-stirring every three or four weeks. Well done. Perfect with chicken or creamy pasta dishes.Prices:| BC | $27.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $32.25 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Vulture 2012
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is an exciting wine from Van Westen that illustrates the right grape in the right place, in this case cabernet franc on the Naramata Bench. The nose has beautiful floral note, followed by a melange of red and black fruit nuances from plum blueberries. The palate is soft but cast with rich fine grained dense tannins that chalk-up your palate and a delicious mix of plums and curry and chocolate and dried herbs. So impressive at this stage but wait on this three to five years. It will be even better. Perfect with oven roasted meats and mushroom dishes. Only 76 cases made.Prices:| BC | $34.70 | 750ml |
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02 February 2016
89PTS
Barone Ricasoli Albia Rosé 2014
Tuscany, ItalyWow, a shocking new favourite for me. Tuscan rosé, under Stelvin, am I dreaming? Ricasoli's Albia is merlot based picked earlier and then topped up with sangiovese. It’s as beautiful to the eye as it is to drink. Dry, fragrant, floral savoury, mineral fruit that is fresh as a daisy. Serve all spring and summer on the patio. Bravo Ricasoli.Prices:| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $26.09 | 750ml |
| SK | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Barone Ricasoli Torricella Chardonnay di Toscana 2013
Tuscany, ItalyChardonnay is splashed with 20 percent sauvignon blanc in this creamy, structured Tuscan white. Fifty percent of this wine rests in large wood for six months, while the rest waits in stainless steel, the mix evident in the balance between richness and bright fresh fruit. Fleshy pear, full cream, gentle lemon curd and fragrant white flowers fill the full palate, one grounded in hazelnuts and gently brightened with crystalline lemon. A streak of vanilla sweetness lingers on the finish. Not shy, pour this big boned wine with richer chicken dishes.Prices:| QC | $26.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Barone Ricasoli Casalferro 2010
Tuscany, ItalyAn unusual offering from Tuscany, a 100% merlot that has dried herb, curry leaf, cherry, tobacco, olive, gamey, vanilla, coffee, balsamic and saddle leather aromas. Round, dry, fresh palate with smooth tannins and juicy acidity. Black cherry, vanilla, coffee, leather, peppery, black olive, savoury, smoked meat and orange spice flavours with a bit of tobacco leaf. The Tuscan influence is strong here on the variety but this has intensity and can age a further 2-4 years. The Casalferro vineyard sits at 400 metres and faces south, southeast in Gaiole in Chianti. The soil is brown with a fine clay structure, very chalky, with a sub alkaline pH and little organic content. It is very stony and well drained.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Barone Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico Riserva 2012
Siena, Tuscany, ItalyFrom Gaiole in Chianti the vines sit between 280 to 480 meters above sea level over varied gravel-based soils. The blend is 80/15/5/ sangiovese, merlot and cabernet sauvignon aged 16 months in barrique and tonneaux. Look for menthol, black pepper, smoky, plum, earthy, tobacco and cedar aromas. Dry, fresh, tight, elegant palate with black olive, smoky, savoury, tobacco, rooty, cherry, vanilla and coffee flavours. Solid intensity in a purer but slightly rustic style. Serve with mushroom dishes to best effect.Prices:| AB | $33.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $36.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Barone Ricasoli Campo Ceni 2013
Tuscany, ItalyCampo Ceni is a mix of sangiovese, merlot and cabernet sauvignon fermented in stainless steel and aged 80/20 in barrique and stainless steel. Meaty, chocolate, light rubber, cedar bark, cocoa, black cherry aromas. Light, thin, tart palate with a bit of sweetness. Sour cherry, peppery, meaty, cocoa, cola, tobacco flavours. Not a lot of charm. Try with spaghetti and meatballs.Prices:| BC | $17.79 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.25 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Barone Ricasoli Colledilà Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2010
Tuscany, ItalyColledilà a part of the Brolio estate for centuries is the cru that stands above all others - a single varietal sangiovese from Gaiole in Chianti. Big cherry, plum, balsamic, smoky, savoury, meaty, vanilla, chocolate aromas with a touch of licorice and rose. Rich, round, smooth, juicy palate with some fine tannins. Coffee, cedar, cherry jam, black berry, cedar, tobacco, balsamic, meaty, ash and licorice flavours. Long but warm meaty finish. Lots of concentration here with some time to go but try it now with a leg of lamb. Colledilà is located at 380 metres above sea level and faces south-west. The soil is brown with a fine clay structure, very chalky, with a sub-alkaline pH and little organic content.Prices:| BC | $60.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $48.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $50.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Barone Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2010
Florence, Tuscany, ItalyThe Ricasoli flagship wine is a blend is 80/15/5/ sangiovese, merlot and cabernet sauvignon in 2010. The nose is intense with cigar tobacco, peppery, black cherry, game notes mixed with floral, cedar, rooty, savoury aromas. The attack is full, rich and dry, if slightly tannic, with a concentrated palate of black cherry, smoky, savoury, cedar, vanilla, tobacco, earthy, licorice, balsamic and rosemary flavours. Still youthful but drinkable now with a rare steak. Good effort here but needs a decade in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $49.50 | 375ml |
| BC | $35.00 | 375ml |
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01 February 2016
92PTS
BK Wines One Ball Chardonnay 2013
Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide, South Australia, AustraliaNamed in honour of the vineyard owner (yup), this striking upper altitude, organically farmed chardonnay from One Ball Vineyard will cement Adelaide Hills in your mind for cool climate, concentrated and complexed Aussie wines. Of course, a big part of that is Brendon Keys, founder and winemaker of BK Wines, and a leading proponent of hand crafted, site-specific wines from this exciting region. Keys seeks out special sites like this one, across Adelaide Hills. "Made with love, not money", this concentrated chardonnay carries one year in ten percent new French and remainder in two and three-year-old barriques/ puncheons allowing the fruit to strike through the wood with a laser beam of citrus and mineral acidity. Whole bunch pressing and wild yeast (no additives) amps the complexity, with heady orchard pear and apple, lemon, subtle meadow honey, broken stones, roasted nuts and an herbal, earthy cushion of lees to support. With a couple of years under its belt and a nutty, brioche maturity, this is drinking beautifully now, but will continue to mature and deepen with 5+ years. A stunner.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Hatch Semillon Sitrus Hill Vineyard 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis organic Osoyoos Sitrus Hill Vineyard semillon carries the grape's characteristic oily sheen, orchard pear, lemon blossom and lime pith, thankfully unmasked by oak. The acidity and vibrancy is a touch muted at this stage, and while it may turn up the volume with rest in bottle, you can easily enjoy this youthful white with tofu or prawn Pad Thai now.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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March 2016