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Tastings: August 2015
31 August 2015
86PTS
Peller Estates Family Series Chardonnay 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight butter, garlic, peach, honey, lees and baked apple aromas. Round, fresh, easy palate with grapefruit rind, butter, light lees, apple skin, pear and grassy flavours. Solid balance with some bitterness on the light finish.Prices:| BC | $11.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.50 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.50 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Township 7 Chardonnay 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGreen apple, soapy floral, citrus, light honey, matchstick, peach and pear aromas with a hint of butter. Dry, fresh, elegant palate with light citrus, granny smith, grassy, butter flavours and a soapy finish. The palate lacks intensity and length with a light bitterness. A big departure in style from the previous vintage although in the right direction, still a work in progress.Prices:| BC | $18.25 | 750ml |
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28 August 2015
86PTS
Eau Vivre Winery Malbec 2012
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRipe blueberries, liquorice, musk perfume and nutmeg open this Similkameen malbec - a rarity. The perfumes continue to the palate, concentrated, ripe dark fruited and violets dominate, lightened by a brisk acidity. Tannins are granular and a bit chalky on the clipped, vanillin finish. Fermented and aged in French and American oak for eighteen months - hoping for a lighter hand with the wood program in future editions so the fruit purity could really shine. That said, drinking well now, and would make a good mate with sticky, BBQ beef or pork ribs.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Samantha Canyonview Vineyard Chardonnay 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig green apple, minty, grassy nose with lees and butter aromas. Fresh, tight, light, brisk palate with light, creamy texture. Earthy, light honey, baked green apple, pear skin, grapefruit rind and clover flavours. Delicate, fresh, cool, tight style for seafood all it needs is a touch more flavour intensity to sing.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Red Rooster Pinot Gris 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSpicy, floral, grapefruit, red apple and light lees aromas. Fresh, off-dry palate with floral, soapy grapefruit, baked apple, pear and earth flavours. Ripe with good intensity mixed with bitter citrus, marzipan and juicy floral notes. Edgy and slightly warm in the finish. Best with a Margherita pizza.Prices:| BC | $15.69 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Masi Tupungato Passo Doble 2012
Tupungato, Valle de Uco, Tunuyán, Central Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaA cleaner edition than last year. The attack is dry and peppery with a strong savoury olive, black liquorice undercurrent mix with black plums, minty, black cherry and smoked olives. There are some tannins to disperse but nothing a piece of grilled meat wouldn’t break down. Your basic barbecue red.Prices:| BC | $11.57 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $19.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Ricossa Antica Casa Barbera d'Asti 2013
Piedmont, ItalyVery peppery, sausage meat, black licorice nose with earthy, cedar, savoury, prune aromas. The style is somewhat rustic but dry and fresh with a lean palate and plum, sour cherry, licorice, meaty, peppery, tobacco, resin and earth flavours. Rustic tannins dot the finish with some acidity showing but has fruit and intensity for grilled meat and pasta. Offers good value for barbera.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.00 | 750ml |
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27 August 2015
93PTS
Gérard Bertrand La Forge Legend Vintage Rivesaltes Ambré 1974
Rivesaltes, Les Pyrénées Orientales, Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceAkin to port, Rivesaltes' fortification during fermentation arrests the yeast and leaves the wine's natural sugars as sweetening factor. The wines are then aged slowly in wooden casks, becoming a tawny, amber hue as the wine matures. Complex bouquet of orange peel, marzipan, dried apricots and marmalade. Crystallized ginger spices the very smooth palate, one marked with orange, caramelized sugar, caramel and beeswax. The body is quite light and lifted, especially considering the concentration and complexities found in this 41 year old wine. Exceptional length and a pair for extra old Gouda or fine almond or walnut biscotti.Prices:| USA | $250.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Gérard Bertrand Clos d'Ora 2012
Minervois la Liviniere, Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceClos d'Ora is a new, super-premium project from Gérard Bertrand, and the culmination of a dream to capture the unique terroir (and spiritual experience Bertrand felt there in 1997) at Clos d'Ora. This nine-hectare stone-walled vineyard already contained old-vine carignan and grenache, beside which Bertrand planted syrah and mourvèdre, all farmed biodynamically. At 220m, chalk, sandstone and marl soils are cultivated by mule, and the grape varieties harvested and macerated separately in concrete before joining in French oak for a year. In the flush of youth, this dense, concentrated wine quakes with youthful energy and enthusiasm, still tightly wound and bound, but starting to reveal its character: Cherry, wild herbs, leather and sweet black plum fruit. Tannins are elegant and lengthy, though very firm, clad with ripe, savoury black fruit, fresh fig, herbal anise and tobacco. Slight smoke lingers on the lengthy finish. Best cellared for 5+ years, though if you drink now, decant for a couple of hours and serve with tenderloin or short ribs. Ten thousand bottles of this inaugural vintage.Prices:| QC | $262.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Gérard Bertrand Le Viala 2011
Minervois la Liviniere, Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe grenache, syrah, mourvèdre and carignan that make up this powerful wine come from a single vineyard between 110-210m in La Livinière. A very expressive nose, reveals earth, meat, blood, leather, and ample dark perfumes. Dense, ripe cassis dominates the layered palate, allowing leather, dried and fresh black cherry, wild rosemary, cured meats and iodine each turns to shine through. Firm tannins rein all this power in, and will slowly release over the next decade as the wine matures. Unfined and unfiltered, with great length and depth.Prices:| QC | $76.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $80.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir Les Aspres 2011
Côtes du Roussillon, Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceThese syrah, mourvèdre and grenache vines grow in the shadow of Mont Canigou in the Pyrenean foothills. Les Aspres is a benchmark cru in the Côtes du Roussillon, translating to 'arid' in Catalan and reflecting the sun-drenched terroir. A powerful nose, with iron, violets, stone, thorns and fragrant cassis. Fine grained spices - pepper, clove - dust the fine, firm tannins, supporting ripe layers of cassis, cherry, raspberry, leather and cured meats. The finish lingers with garrigue and fine black pepper, welcoming pouring with leg of lamb. Fantastic value.Prices:| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gérard Bertrand Terroir Saint Chinian Syrah Mourvèdre 2011
St Chinian, Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceSaint-Chinian is a special village in the Languedoc where grapes have grown since the Middle Ages. Sandstone and schist slopes yield these syrah and mouvèdre vines and their perfumed, cold cream and violets aromas. Rustic and a bit chunkier, this richer red carries smoked, dried meats, dried blackberry, cassis and liquorice across ripe, ragged tannins. Pour with equally rustic dishes for best effect.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir La Clape 2011
Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThis syrah/carignan/mourvèdre from La Clape has gained complexity and shed baby weight over the two years since we last tasted it. Limestone soils and a coastal Mediterranean climate yield a freshness and minerality to this floral, red fruited blend. Currants, floral perfume, garrigue, big peppery spices rasp along fine, gravelly tannins, ending with a light grittiness. Juicy, structured and nimble - a winning combination for salt crusted chicken. Drinking well now.Prices:| QC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir Tautavel 2011
Tautavel, Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceTautavel is a village in the warmer, spoon-shaped, sunshine-catching Roussillon valley. Pebbly, limestone-rich terraces and south-east facing hillsides house the grenache/syrah/carignan in this blend. Lovely perfumed, savoury cassis and anise pervades this confident, concentrated wine. Dense and dark perfumed ripe fruits, violets, figs, cassis rest on fine, slightly sticky tannins, trailing off with sweet spices and lavender. Acidity throughout carries the weight nimbly. Amazing value for quality here, and a terrific pour for your lamb shank.Prices:| QC | $19.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $18.50 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $20.25 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gérard Bertrand Terroir Fitou 2011
Fitou, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceGrenache and carignan make up this rustic red, one led by cranberry, suede and red cherry. Ragged tannins tannins, cedar hewn and spicy red currants trail off with a dry, astringent finish. Bottle feels a bit past its prime; best to drink now with poultry in red sauce pastas.Prices:| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Gérard Bertrand Terroir Corbières Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre 2011
Corbières, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe dryness of Corbières is transmitted through this blend of grenache, syrah and mourvèdre. Highly perfumed strawberry, black raspberry and fragrant sandalwood entice on the nose. Black cherry, thorny cassis, dark plum and wild blackberry pack around the firmer core, textured with garrigue and peppery spice. Tannins are fine, raspy and structured, while acidity is brisk. Pour alongside roast chicken or turkey with cranberry.Prices:| CDN | $19.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Gérard Bertrand Terroir Minervois 2011
Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceA 20 degree Celsius diurnal shift keeps the freshness of syrah up in the arid and dry Minervois region, a vast sloping limestone and stony amphitheatre up against the Black Mountain. Scented black florals, tar, charcoal and cured meats lure to the dense and complexed anise-scented black fruit of the heady palate. Striking freshness lifts the density across very fine grained, structured tannins to a lingering finish. Lost some of its youthful punchiness and drinking very well now, especially with baby lamb.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gérard Bertrand Terroir Languedoc 2011
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe Terroir range promotes the appellations of the South of France in their diversity. Here, the hot, windswept semi-arid Mediterranean climate of Languedoc is expressed through syrah and grenache. Cracked currants, cherry, cassis, fine spice fill the nose. Dense cassis and clove lead the generous, fruity palate - one upped by syrah undergoing partial carbonic fermentation. Grippy, sandpaper textured tannins finish with iron stoniness. Acidity is brisk throughout, making for a refreshing if rustic pour alongside herbed pork tenderloin or leg of lamb.Prices:| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Gérard Bertrand Côte Des Roses Rosé 2014
Coteaux du Languedoc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThis gossamer pink hued rosé is presented in a very special, original glass bottle with the base designed in the shape of a rose. Even the closure is vino-loc glass, as to not detract from the aesthetic. Trés chic. Lovely perfumed strawberry, delicate raspberry blossom aromas. Pear and stony garrigue spice leads the substantial, dry palate, one that flows to roses and fine spices on the finish. Intense, lively and graceful - a rare match. Pour this rosé with your seared tuna or charcuterie.Prices:| ON | $19.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $19.65 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Gérard Bertrand Gris Blanc 2014
Vin de Pays d'Oc, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThis grenache/grenache gris blend is sourced mostly from limestone terraces and hillsides in Roussillon, regulated by the ripping Tramontana north wind. A lovely gossamer pale orange hue, this delicate, dry rosé opens with light blossoms, mineral before a savoury, stony, strawberry and pink grapefruit pith palate. Crisp and light, and a lovely aperitif.Prices:| ON | $17.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Gérard Bertrand Tautavel Hommage aux Vignerons 2011
Tautavel, Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, Sud de France, FranceTautavel is a village in Roussillon where civilisation was first recorded, nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. Here old, low-yielding grenache vines are sourced from 20 hectares of limestone terraces and hillsides, fermented and macerated in cement before a year in French oak barrels. Fresh and bright, with anise, cocoa, dried garrigue, black raspberry, violet, vanilla aromas. Rich, round and elegant on the medium bodied palate, with light tannins carrying a savoury mix of bittersweet cocoa, pepper, black raspberry, plum, blood orange and cedar spice. Fine fruit and structure for old vine grenache, delicious now with duck or lamb but will continue to deepen and mature in the bottle for several more years.Prices:| BC | $41.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $40.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $37.50 | 750ml |
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26 August 2015
90PTS
Orofino Pinot Gris 2014
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSourced from two Similkameen vineyards, this bright pinot gris was partially fermented in a locally-produced concrete tank, with the majority (60 percent) sent to stainless and a splash (12 percent) going to old French oak barrels. The result is a layered, rewarding, complete pinot gris, one with creamy concrete cushioning, wild herbs, fennel, fine spice and a vein of bright, pure orchard fruit.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Cherry Tart Chardonnay 2013
California, United StatesDon’t be fooled by the Cherry Tart name this is real chardonnay beginning with its ripe pear, spicy lees, and baked apple nose marked by nutty butter, vanilla and peach aromas. The attack is juicy and creamy, the palate forward with butterscotch, melon, peach, baked apple, spicy lees, citrus and vanilla flavours and a smoky oaked finish. Good fruit and balance for current drinking with broad consumer appeal. A blend of Monterrey, Sonoma and Napa County fruit.Prices:| BC | $30.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Five Vineyards by Mission Hill Chardonnay 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAlways tasty and modern, yet right on the pulse of what a $15 chardonnay should be. The attack is soft and creamy with some green apple and fresh melon notes. The attack is similar with apple pith and pear fruit dominating all with the support of some minerality and floral notes. A perfect wine for most seafood pasta dishes, risotto or even grilled halibut. Always good value.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $16.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $17.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $18.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Noble Ridge Stony Knoll Chardonnay 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA near perfect vintage has created, perhaps, the best chardonnay yet from Noble Ridge. Free to express its most minute notes under screwcap it opens clean and crisp with a breathe of lees over ripe apples and citrus undertones. Only eight percent of the wine sees oak and even that is a mix of new and one year old oak that respects the natural acidity; again to allow the bright, peachy/pear fruit to shine through. Fish soup, cheeses, chicken, this delicious bottle is very complementary to food. One hundred percent Okanagan Falls fruit masquerading as an Okanagan Valley chardonnay which is likely why its $19.95 instead of $29.95.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Chardonnay 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaChardonnay with a dash of pinot gris sourced from select sites at See Ya Later Ranch and Thomas Ranch, just south of Okanagan Falls. The fruit finishes its ferment in barrel to give the wine a more generous palate but thankfully there is a freshness and a complexing lees to balance off the rich fruit. The attack is creamy with vanilla and caramel underlying spicy baked apple, melon and pear fruit. The winery suggests grilled veal chops with mushrooms but lobster, scallops or a bowl of popcorn will do to. At 13.5 percent it stays within itself. Drink now. Good value.Prices:| BC | $14.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Anarchist Mountain Vineyards Elevation Chardonnay 2013
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEasily the best yet from Anarchist Mountain, blazing a path to where we need to go in chardonnay. After a stainless steel ferment a second new barrel of French oak (a tighter grain and different flavour profile) was added to the six barrel fold. A blessing in disguise was a malolactic fermentation that didn’t complete thus halting the creamy, softening process. The nose is a mix of lemons and pears with more of that toasted hazelnut character and light lees. The palate is richer than the 2012 with a more intense citrus butter and peachy stone fruit notes. Made at Meyer Family Vineyards in Okanagan Falls.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Anarchist Mountain Vineyards Elevation Chardonnay 2012
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTasted alongside the 2013 Elevation the ’12 is a big improvement over the 2011. Pressed and barrel fermented this chardonnay is aged on its lees for 10 months. Production is tiny at 75 cases or three French oak barrels and thankfully only one is new. The vines are almost 30 years old, planted in 1985, and production is mountain spare. The attack is fresh and crisp and full of lemon and citrus notes over butter and hazelnuts. Ready to drink now with a great piece of brie or a rich piece of fish.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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25 August 2015
89PTS
CedarCreek Platinum Block 3 Riesling 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTwenty-three year vines were picked twice for this expressive riesling; first the top clusters were collected, leaving the bottom ones to hang longer and ripen further. Add in twelve hours of skin contact and you have a youthful, bright and zippy riesling with layers of depth underneath. Ample perfumed apple and pear blossoms lead into concentrations of pear butter, white flowers, key lime curd and whispy, ginger-shaded spices and lime pith. In youth, still finding its feet, but give this duckling 2+ years in the bottle and it will reward you ten fold. Looking forward to retesting this in future.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Blue Mountain Chardonnay 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPolished and complete, with five French clones of 24 year old vines whole cluster pressed and split between stainless and newish French oak. The result is a creamy, complexed and firm chardonnay, one that reveals hazelnuts and lemon curd and subtle white flowers now with the promise of releasing more over the next couple of years. Bright lemon peel and vanilla take the lead, with subtle toasty spice support and well integrated oak to a lingering finish. Enjoy with Dungeness crab.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $27.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Gold Hill Meritage Family Reserve 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig chocolate, coffee, vanilla aromas with cedar, black pepper, tobacco, prune, barnyard and balsamic aromas. Round, dry, tart palate with some lighter, lean tannins. Peppery, cassis, smoked herb, prune, tobacco leaf, dill, olive and cherry flavours. Has some elegance but the finish is warm and tart with some green tea tannins and lots of oak to shed.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Kismet Estate Mantra 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBig smoky, oaky, coffee, vanilla aromas with flecks of black olive, cassis, mint, leather and compost. Dry, fresh, round, suave palate with light tannins. Tart cherry, cassis fruit with chocolate, coffee, vanilla flavours that mix with resin, licorice, roasted tomato, pepper, prune flavours. Easy-sipping, oaky style you can drink now or hold a year or two. Best with roasted meats.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2009
Tuscany, ItalyNot quite up to the 2010. Lighter cherry, brick colour. Smoky, prune, peppery, light sausage meat nose with flecks of black cherry, balsamic/cigar aromas. Dry, round, fresh, elegant palate with light tannins but fine concentration. Smoky, coffee, peppery, roast meat with red fruits/cherry jam, licorice root, savoury, tobacco/prune flavours. Good intensity but finish is a bit dry and pruny. Drink now with grilled beef or mushroom pasta or age two or three years to round out further.Prices:| BC | $43.49 | 750ml |
| ON | $44.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $45.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $50.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Juan Gil Silver Label 2012
Jumilla, Valencia and Murcia, SpainHuge black pepper nose with tobacco leaf, meaty, chocolate, plum, light vanilla and licorice aromas. Rich, ripe, round, full, juicy palate with some light, astringent tannins. The attack is warm with plum jam, black cherry, chocolate, savoury, vanilla, smoky herb, roast meat flavours. Super ripe fruit but finish is hot and somewhat tannic. Needs a few years or air it out before serving with hardy dishes. Our pick: lamb stew.Prices:| BC | $21.79 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $23.00 | 750ml |
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24 August 2015
88PTS
Deep Roots Winery Frosted Pinot 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis late harvest pinot gris veers quite sweet, but there is bright lemon acidity to float it. Floral, pear blossom lime pulp gooseberry and soapy perfume fill the round palate. Pair with cream fruit tarts or peach pie.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 375ml |
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86PTS
Orofino Beleza 2012
Cawston, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDeep cherry colour. Black cherry, pruney, tobacco leaf, light compost, peppery, resiny, inky, coffee, chocolate, vanilla aromas. Dry, elegant, slightly tight palate with light tannins and some sharp acidity. Prune, coffee, peppery, black olive, resin, tea leaf, green bean and dried herb flavours. Finish is a bit tart with soupy, oak notes. Needs time in the bottle or food.Prices:| BC | $34.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tellurian Tranter Heathcote Shiraz 2012
Heathcote, Victoria, AustraliaCombining full, ripe fruit and freshness, this finessed Heathcote shiraz impresses with dark florals, black pepper and sun warmed blackberry. A lick of mint and dark cocoa threads through the ripe black plums, violets, thorns, dried scrubby herbs and sweeter cured meats on the medium bodied palate. Ripe tannins are finely grained, carrying through to a lingering peppery finish. Drinking well now (try with duck) but will hold and build for the next 5+ years.Prices:| Australia | $40.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Indigenous World Simo Small Lot Red Blend 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLots of vanilla, coffee, chocolate, light black berry, tobacco, prune, floral, balsamic aromas. Dry, fresh, slightly lean and tart entry with light tannins. More rich smoky, espresso, vanilla, sour cherry, cassis flavours with underlying licorice, resin, tobacco/olive flavours with some roasted bell pepper notes on the finish. Needs a few years in bottle and could do with less oak. Try with big rich fall and or winter menu items.Prices:Read Full Note
87PTS
Stag's Hollow Heritage Block 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaInitially very reductive on the nose that cleared off to reveal notes of black pepper, roast bell pepper, cassis, smoky, coffee, light black cherry, rubber and cedar aromas. Dry, somewhat lean and a touch astringent with smoky, prune, black licorice, cassis, rooty, sour cherry and olive flavours. Finish is quite warm and tart with some tannins to shed. Best with grilled chicken or beef.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program One Phantom Creek Vineyard 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCoffee, chocolate, smoky vanilla, black pepper, black berry jam, tobacco leaf, black olive, cranberry, savoury, licorice aromas. Round, dry, slightly tart palate with light tannins. Smoky, dark chocolate, vanilla, cassis, black cherry, resin, licorice, poultry spice and tapenade flavours. Finish is a bit tart and very oaky with tea leaf tannins but better balance than last edition. Needs five years in the bottle to settle down.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.99 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Moon Curser Border Vines 2012
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, smoky, savoury, black olive, light dill, roast bell pepper, prune and light coffee aromas. Dry, tight, somewhat lean palate with light astringency. Coffee, prune, smoky, dried herb, black pepper, roast tomato, cedar, resin and licorice flavours. Finish is quite dry and warm with some astringent tannins. Needs food to balance the tannins but strangely on the herbaceous side.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Culmina Family Estate R&D Red Blend 2013
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery savoury, dried herb, black pepper, prune plum, tobacco leaf, chocolate, menthol and balsamic aromas. Dry, tight, elegant, juicy but slightly lean entry with some astringent tannins. Coffee, inky, violet, black pepper, black berry, plum, savoury, Oxo, vanilla and tapenade flavours. Finish is long, warm and youthful with some tannins to shed. Good concentration but will need 2-4 years.Prices:| BC | $48.00 | 750ml |
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22 August 2015
82PTS
Gold Hill Viognier 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaYellow apple, pineapple aromas turn sour and tinny on the round palate. Bruised fruits, sour citrus and wilted blousy florals finish with a bit of spice and a lot of heat.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Monte Creek Ranch Frontenac Gris Late'r Harvest 2014
British Columbia, CanadaClassic, new shower curtain nose with bits of honey and orange. The attack is off dry with a mix of mango, honey and sour lemons with some bitter notes pushing through the back end. Simple style light late harvest. Could use a little less alcohol and a little more sugar.Prices:| BC | $17.49 | 375ml |
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21 August 2015
87PTS
Poplar Grove The Legacy 2011
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA quiet nose opens this premium red from Poplar Grove, whiffs of clay, leather, twine and cassis hinting at the merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, cabernet sauvignon and syrah blend. Tight cassis, stone, plum and cracked pepper on the fresh palate, with structured tannins and good length. Well made and knit, especially for a challenging vintage.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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20 August 2015
85PTS
Noble Ridge Meritage 2011
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCedar, cranberry, floral, smoky, roast tomato, cherry, light bell pepper aromas with some coffee, olive, prune and vanilla notes. Dry, slightly tart and lean palate with some astringent tannins. Coffee, smoky oak, cranberry, cherry, cedar, tobacco leaf, pepper, green olive, dill, savoury, prune flavours. This needs some bottle age or a steak to settle in.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Tabali Reserva Pinot Noir 2013
Valle del Limari, ChileNot a lot of changes here in what is essentially a cool but ripe version of New World pinot. The attack is mouth-watering with citrus, spicy red fruits, plums and a dash of rhubarb mixed with carrot top and a wisp of vanilla. Soft and slippery it meets the pinot tannin test. Grown less than thirty kilometers from the cold Pacific Ocean the perfect match is salmon.Prices:| BC | $17.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $17.19 | 750ml |
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82PTS
Enrico Winery Cabernet Libre 2012
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaA new hybrid with strong tobacco leaf, crushed compost, cedar, olive, pyrazine, minty aromas. Dry, light, thin palate with tart acidity. Compost, coffee, earthy, bell pepper, smoked tomato and game flavours. A very herbaceous style that would be best with a hardy, winter-style stew.Prices:| BC | $18.40 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Enrico Winery Cabernet Foch 2012
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaOpen peppery, smoky, resin, gamey, tobacco leaf, roast tomato, smoked olive and meat aromas. Dry, tight, light, thin palate with olive, dill, peppery, smoky, compost, tobacco and cedar flavours. Not much fruit here but rounder than the libre. Served this with grilled sausages or hamburgers for the best effect.Prices:| BC | $18.40 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2014
Côtes du Rhône, Rhone Valley, FranceSpicy, peppery, licorice, resin, meaty, black raspberry and smoky herb aromas. Dry, fresh, elegant but leaner palate with floral, black raspberry, savoury, gamey, licorice flavours. A lighter, leaner version this year and a bit less dense than the Villages version.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $15.50 | 750ml |
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19 August 2015
87PTS
Fort Berens Chardonnay 2014
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaModerate toasty oak, lemon and green apples lead this Lillooet chardonnay on the nose and lighter bodied palate. Tight, crisp lemon, butter and spices peak out through the toasty barrels and intrigue, but the oak overwhelms the fresh, green and citrus fruit and lively pithiness at this stage. Hopefully it will be dialled back in future vintages. A cool stoniness on the finish would well suit creamy pasta dishes.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Benjamin Bridge Rosé 2011
Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia, CanadaA new release from Canada's most acclaimed sparkling producer, the 2011 Rosé harkens the confidence and finesse of Champagne, but with a crisp, linear cut and saline marine freshness that sings Nova Scotia. Light florals, roses, subtle toast and stone aromas are the entry to a bright, delicate and focussed palate, one light and subtle but with ample fluidity of cherry, stone and a whiff of cinnamon spicing on the lengthy finish. I appreciate the leanness and fine structure of this 11.5 percent bubble, equal parts pinot meunier and pinot noir, with a 15 percent splash of chardonnay that has spent two years on the lees. Disgorged July 2014 and drinking well now (enjoyed with wine dressed moules frites) but will reward with 3-5 years time.Prices:| NS | $45.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Fort Berens Riesling 2014
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaWhite flowers, baby powder and red apple aromas on this estate riesling. Pretty gooseberry, lychee, pear and pithy tangerine lead the lighter palate, off dry and floral. Simple, youthful and light (11 percent) and a sunny pour for summer salads.Prices:| BC | $18.40 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge 2014
Côtes du Rhône Villages, Southern Rhone, Rhone Valley, FranceLighter intensity this year with earthy, smoky, raspberry and cranberry aromas. The palate is fresh and elegant but lighter with gamey, savoury, black raspberry flavours with a bit of licorice. Fresh and light a perfect mid-week red for chicken or meaty pizzas.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| YK | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.50 | 750ml |
| ON | $15.00 | 750ml |
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18 August 2015
87PTS
Moon Curser Contraband Series Arneis 2014
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPear, green apple, quince, light citrus, floral, lees aromas with a touch of lees and grass. Dry, fresh, juicy palate but a touch austere. Green apple, minty, herbal, pear, grapefruit, spicy, quince flavours. A touch skinny and soapy on the finish but well balanced overall for seafood. Solid effort for a more difficult, unusual variety.Prices:| BC | $25.90 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Township 7 Un-Oaked Chardonnay 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGrapefruit, baked apple, leesy, waxy, spicy, floral aromas. Dry, somewhat lean, light palate with grapefruit rind, green apple skin, leesy, earthy flavours. Bitter, soapy, leesy finish. Cooler fruit style but lacks texture and intensity with high bitterness and some sour notes.Prices:| BC | $16.51 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Averill Creek Vineyard Foch Eh! 2014
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaDeep plum cherry colour. Smoky, gamey, sour cherry, tobacco leaf, plasticene, sausage, riparian aromas. Dry, tart, elegant, slightly lean palate with soapy floral, sour cherry, tobacco, gamey, rooty flavours. A bit tart and fresh but well made Foch with fruit.Prices:| BC | $16.12 | 750ml |
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13 August 2015
90PTS
Château La Tour de l'Evêque Pétale de Rose 2014
Côtes de Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FrancePouring a palest peach hue, this fragrant rose opens with mandarin, salted strawberries and stone. A gentle cushion of wild strawberries and Rainier cherries supports the garrigue, white pepper, grapefruit pith and minerality of this juicy, smooth and savoury rosé. Quite complete and finessed, this harmonious rosé is a blend of all the grapes (red and white) grown on the estate: cinsault, grenache, syrah, ugni blanc, mourvèdre, sémillon, cabernet sauvignon and rolle. Buy up, drink up.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Chateau Beaulieu Coteaux D'Aix-en-Provence 2014
Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, Provence, Sud de France, FranceThe property producing distinctive shaped bottle of rosé has a highly distinctive lineage. 180 hectares of vines are plated in the heart of the extinct la Trévaresse volcano, at an altitude of 400 metres. Château Beaulieu is the largest estate in the AOP appelation Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence and has been owned successively by some of the top families of Provence over hundreds of years. Heady sous bois, florals and cherry aromas lead to a medium bodied, firmer palate. Red currant, tart cranberry, rhubarb and white pepper finish with pithy pink grapefruit and a bit of lingering heat. Brisk and frisky, pour this bone dry blend of grenache/cabernet sauvignon/syrah/cinsault/mourvèdre with charcuterie or lardon, cherry arugula salad.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
L'Opaline 2014
Coteaux Varois, Provence, Sud de France, FranceA whisper of blush hue, this delicate, crisp rose echoes pink grapefruit and wild strawberries on the nose. The light, bone dry palate continues with bright, tart grapefruit, adding in a cushion of white peach and pear, rainier cherries and a gentle rasp of spice on the pithy finish. Elegant and refreshing.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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12 August 2015
90PTS
Road 13 Marsanne Low Yield Wines 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAn orchard of perfumed florals, starfruit, passionfruit and pink grapefruit open this expressive marsanne. Whole cluster pressing and fermentation in old neutral barrels builds mouth-feel and complexities, resulting in an elegant wildflower and honeyed pour. A sheen of wax on the fuller palate helps the honeyed melon, ripe pear and quince glide along, buoyed easily by moderate lemon oil acidity and lingering with fine almond spices. A lovely, elegant, concentrated expression of marsanne, and one that would suit kasu marinated sablefish or butter seared scallops.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Road 13 Viognier Low Yield Wines 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPear blossoms, lychee and yellow apples open this ripe, creamy viognier, amped up with low yields and whole cluster pressing. Orange creamsicle, white peach, pear blossoms and apricot lead the smooth, off-dry palate, one spiced up with fine cinnamon spicing. The grape's flamboyance is well managed here, making this a great pairing choice for melon and prosciutto or green curry mussels.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Maverick Estate Winery Pinot Gris 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLove that this is hand-picked and whole bunch pressed to reduce phenolics. A portion is naturally fermented in oak before it is blended and aged on its fine lees for 3 months. In conjunction with a warm year this is a super ripe honeyed gris with intense note tropical fruits and ripe guava. All that said it’s fresh and bright, with a crease of minerality, but a little too much sugar to be considered serious. It will have legions of fans nonetheless. Try this with spicy sushi dishes.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Maverick Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2014 growing season was one of the warmest since 1998 and 2003 for both heat and length and you can feel it and taste it in this sauvignon. At 13.8 alcohol this is weighty and the fruit is ripe yet not overbearing. Juice was settled and then fermented (15°-16° C) in stainless steel tanks. The press portion was barrel fermented in used French oak. All of it was left on its fine lees for 3 months prior to blending and bottling. Look for classic sauvignon aromatics with ripe almost sweet honey grassy pink grapefruit flavours. It finishes long with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for west coast seafood dishes and or chicken.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Kismet Syrah 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight hickory notes open this ripe, richer syrah from the southern Okanagan. Raspberry, branch, black cherry, cedar spice dominate the round, ripe palate, pushed with a steak sauce spiciness. The finish trails off with spiced cloves, welcoming pouring with a juicy grilled steak.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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11 August 2015
89PTS
CedarCreek Platinum Riesling Icewine 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLemon curd, honey and pineapple lead the very sweet nose and carry through to the candied, heady palate. Snappy vibrant and pointed citrus acidity moderates the tropical sweetness and lingers on the finish.Prices:| BC | $53.00 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Sperling Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis super ripe, heady gewürztraminer streams eraser, white peach, spiced pear and apple butter. Very juicy and round for a lighter bodied gewürztraminer, but carries a bitter pear skin edge that offsets the off-dry finish.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Blue Mountain Pinot Blanc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOne of BC's best whites is pinot blanc. That's right. Pinot blanc. Complexities and restraint at once, via two clones of 29 year old grapes, sustainably harvested and whole cluster pressed. Sixty percent rests in stainless and the remainder goes off to older French oak for 5 months of light lees contact. Crisp citrus, gentle lees, orchard pear and grapefruit pith through the nose and medium bodied palate, where hints of honey, wildflowers, dried thyme and shining minerality swirl to a lingering finish. Bright acidity throughout, with white pepper and pithy spice to close off. Drinking beautifully now, but this elegant and finessed wine will continue to hold and grow over the next 5 years.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Monte Creek Ranch Rosé 2014
British Columbia, CanadaA new, frontier winery in the Thompson Valley, just outside of Kamloops, Monte Creek Ranch runs along the Thompson River, and its 44 acres of vines are planted predominantly to hybrids, like this 100 percent marquette rosé. Dusty orange pink hue, with cherry popsicle dominating the nose and full bodied palate. Just off dry, berry, red apple, candied fruit and a subtle undertone of milk chocolate and a swing of thorny bitterness on the finish. Richer, fruity style to chill down and drink up this summer.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Yangarra GSM 2013
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaG'Day new Australia. Nearly half of this fragrant, layered biodynamic wine is old bush vine grenache, planted in 1946 in Kangarilla, McLaren Vale. Wild ferment, nine months in old French oak and no fining ups the mouth-feel and complexities. Fresh, textured, lively and balanced, with fragrant ripe strawberry, cherries, perfumed anise, leather, and sweet savoury herbs. The medium bodied palate is lifted with graceful acidity and anchored with fine boned, lightly powdery tannins. White and black pepper lingers on the finish, drawing you back for another glass. A wine of finesse to pour with herb roasted chicken.Prices:| BC | $29.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Moon Curser Petit Verdot 2012
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAmple and potent aromas of violets, black pepper and tar open this structured petit verdot, a rare solo appearance from the Okanagan. Inky cassis, bitter cherry, resinous and branch dominate the tannic, rustic palate. There is some acidity trying to poke through, but the force of the tannic grape overwhelms at this point. Mitigate now with a sauced flank steak, or lay down for a couple of years to soften and integrate.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Moon Curser Touriga Nacional 2012
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe desert heat of Osoyoos suits Portugal's legendary touriga nacional. Perfumed sandalwood, cedar and toasted coconut aromas open this big, brooding red. Bitter cassis, black plum, coconut oil and toast adds intrigue to the ripe, full bodied red. Massive, ragged tannins and smoke close out the finish. Interesting, pricey, and a solid pour for grilled ribs, but not a solo sipping wine at this young point.Prices:| BC | $39.00 | 750ml |
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10 August 2015
90PTS
Vistalba Corte C Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon Bonarda 2014
Vistalba District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBodega Vistalba was opened in 2002 in Luján de Cuyo and was setup to delve into the traditional winemaking style where wines were blended ‘corte.’ Vistalba turns out various grape mixes under malbec, cabernet sauvignon and bonarda blends and the wine is fermented in concrete vessels and then blended and aged in French oak barrels. The 2014 is easily the most approachable version of this wine we have seen in years. The nose is warm and spicy, by the textures are supple and soft on the palate with rich, black fruits with plums and prunes dominating. Elegance and style is the hallmark of this year and this wine is well worth buying.Prices:| BC | $19.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $22.35 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Adami Vigneto Giardino Dry DOCG Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, Italy‘Rive’ is the local dialect for steep hillside vineyards - average altitude, 200 - 250 m. situated on a slope forming an amphitheatre facing south in the case of Giardino owned by Adami. The creamiest style of all the Adami bubbles the nose and palate are a delicate, refined and complex as it gets for prosecco. A fruit salad that fines dry and full and long. A versatile wine you could serve with scallops or shrimp or with nutty desert cakes. Best to drink this young.Prices:| BC | $26.89 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Adami Col Credas Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Rive Farra di Soligo NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, Italy‘Rive’ is the local dialect for steep hillside vineyards. The grapes are grown 350-400 metres above sea level. The first wine is matured on its fine lees in stainless steel for three months before a second ‘Metodo Italiano’ fermentation done in a pressurized stainless tank. The style is mostly dry with delicate floral blossom notes. The attack is crisp and fresh with citrus, apples and pears and dried herbs over a stony mineral base. The finish is prolonged and fruity with fresh acidity to cleanse the palate. Perfect with white fish especially with tomatoes. Perfect with sushi as well.Prices:| BC | $31.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Adami Garbèl Brut Prosecco Treviso NV
Treviso, Verona, Veneto, ItalyGarbèl Brut DOC Prosecco Treviso Garbèl in the ancient local dialect refers to dry and crisp and pleasantly tart. Garbèl is grown on mostly clay soils mixed with chalk on hillsides and on the plains. This is the everyday Adami prosecco. The nose is a bright mix of ripe yellow fruits; the palate a creamy mix of tart, crisp, full-flavoured fruit salad. Tight well-knit solid bubble suitable for celebratory toasts, tapas-style appetizers or even creamy pasta dishes.Prices:| BC | $22.59 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Bartier Bros. Gewürztraminer Lone Pine Vineyard 2013
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSoft soap, perfumed peach blossoms and wild meadow grass aromas on this herbal, streamlined gewürztraminer from Summerland's Lone Pine Vineyard. Subtle blossoms and pear skin on the softer palate, with whiffs of savoury pork sausage, wild peach, subtle orange, apple blossoms and gooseberry. An elegant, herbal style to pair with pork chops and apples.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Gewürztraminer 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDelicate florals, soap and blossoms open the nose and mouth of this leaner gewürztraminer, sourced from vineyards on Mt. Boucherie. Lemon and orange blossoms, pear and melon lead the oily palate, finishing with fine, exotic spices. Pour with Chinese styled chicken or pork belly dishes.Prices:| BC | $14.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| YK | $19.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Eau Vivre Gewurztraminer 2013
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSubtle soap, rose and peaches open this off-dry Similkameen gewürztraminer. The soft, honeyed palate continues the theme, along with powdery fine spices and mandarin and gentle acidity. Ample ginger spicing and heat lingers on the finish and would suit spiced, citrus-slicked Chinese chicken or vegetarian dishes.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Terravista Fandango Albariño Verdejo 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaUnique for Canada, this concentrated albariño/verdejo blend opens with pear, orange blossoms and yellow plum. The fresh, waxy palate carries herbal-kissed, ripe orchard fruit - white peach, gooseberry, tangerine along with zesty lime pith and fine white pepper spicing. Fuller bodied and expansive, you can feel the 14 percent alcohol on the finish; pair with richer seafood, like sablefish or tuna tataki with papaya salad.Prices:| BC | $21.69 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Poplar Grove Merlot 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMerlot remains undervalued, and frankly not all that well done in the Okanagan, but there is no reason we couldn’t do a better job as evidence by this Poplar Grove. This one hits many of the highs - the ripe, brambled, dark plum and medicinal cherry/blueberry notes only to be held back by its youthful, oaky somewhat hard tannins (press wine?) We love the concentration and while somewhat chunky this is a solid effort and can easily be tamed by richer, beef or lamb dishes at this stage. Heading in the right direction.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Vistalba Corte C Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon Bonarda 2013
Vistalba District, Luján de Cuyo, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaBodega Vistalba was opened in 2002 in Luján de Cuyo and was setup to delve into the traditional winemaking style where wines were blended ‘corte.’ Vistalba turns out various grape mixes under malbec, cabernet sauvignon and bonarda blends Corte A, Corte B and the wine is fermented in concrete vessels and then blended and aged in French oak barrels. In 2013 the nose is an enticing mix of spice, licorice and stony red and black fruit blend with floral undertones. The palate is awash in peppery, cedar, tobacco, meaty, black cherry and plum flavours with a savoury smoky finish. You can drink this now but it will improve with three to five years in bottle.Prices:| BC | $19.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Five Vineyards by Mission Hill Pinot Blanc 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe %V pinot blanc is unoaked which explains the freshness and bright acidity that lifts all the fruit flavours. The plate is mix of ripe green/gold apple fruit with bits of lemon lime and pink grapefruit. The finish is of medium length. The winery recommends oysters or a beet and goat's cheese salad. We think most sushi rolls would work too. The fruit comes from a wide mix of sites including Oliver 63%, Kelowna 18%, Naramata 11% and Osoyoos 8%.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $17.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.45 | 750ml |
| NB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Transcendent 2010
Napa Valley, California, United StatesIn spite of its moniker, and wax covered corked, Transcendent is an attractive New World cabernet that boasts an intense black cherry, blueberry fruit nose of what must have been tiny cabernet sauvignon berries. The attack is linear with structured cabernet tannins, slightly grip-y tannins and balanced freshness. The finish is youthful with some tannin yet to shed but in a less fat mode it has its attraction. There’s 11 percent merlot in the mix and its needed to soften the textures. For the moment it need time in the bottle. If opening the bottle is on the agenda make sure you have a grilled leg of lamb at the ready.Prices:| USA | $150.00 | 750ml |
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09 August 2015
89PTS
Haywire Gamay Noir Rosé Secrest Mountain Vineyard 2014
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis fragrant, stony gamay rosé comes from Secrest Mountain Vineyard in Oliver wrapped in a Provençal pink hue. Concrete fermentation seems to set the tone for a mouth-watering salty mineral, faint raspberry nose flecked with dried herbs. The attack is creamy, with more stony, spicy wild strawberry, raspberry bush, florals, rhubarb and pear skin notes with crunchy acidity and certain lightness and finesse that makes you want to empty the bottle.Prices:| BC | $22.90 | 750ml |
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08 August 2015
87PTS
Bench 1775 Merlot 2013
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaOpen warm black fruit, savoury dried herb nose with flecks of crushed tobacco leaf. The attack is fresh, dry with a combination of sour black cherry, more dried herbs, licorice and old wood. The tannins are youthful and powdery and this finishes with some heat, but you can drink this now with roasted lamb, venison or beef.Prices:| BC | $34.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Sandhill Small Lots Program Two Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFresh red cherries, black cherries, raspberries and light sweet smoke open this cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc blend. The palate is intense with rooty, ripe, sweet black fruit, with fairly astringent wood tannins and smoke on the finish. At this point the wood overrides fruit suggesting taming it dishes of long braised beef.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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07 August 2015
89PTS
Liquidity Viognier 2014
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEraser, pear skin, lime pith opens this ripe, expressive and alluring viognier. Ripe pear, earthy spice, orange pith dominates the ripe and round palate, trailing off with apricot and marmelade. Acidity is fresh and the savoury qualities (wild ferment?) play well against the ripe fruit.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Van Westen Vineyards V 2012
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis dense blend of merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot opens with inky lacquer, black cherry, black raspbery and heady wild blackberry. The density continues on the palate, with deep and brooding spice and dark florals plumped around big, gripppy tannins and lifted with moderately fresh acidity. Florals and ink closes out the lingering, spicy finish.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Synchromesh Riesling Storm Haven Vineyard 2013
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis is the premium riesling from one of the Okanagan's riesling specialists, sourced from a single coarse gravelled vineyard in Okanagan Falls. Amazing concentration for 9.4% alcohol, opening with alluring salty lemon pith, pear skin, green apple and chalk. The off dry palate shimmers with limey focus, drawing lemon, white grapefruit, pear and honeysuckle through a long, minerally finish. Drinking beautifully now, but will last the next decade happily.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Trius Winery at Hillebrand Showcase Sparkling 5 Blanc de Noir 2009
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaLovely intensity on this pinot noir / pinot meunier blend. Big toasty spice, red apple and some mature lees aromas lead to a creamy palate. Maturity is showing here, with nutty lees and dried fruit, though acidity is still quite sharp and bright. Spiced apple pie on the finish.Prices:| ON | $55.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Thirty Bench Small Lot Gewürztraminer 2013
Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaWhat a lovely surprise to come across this pure, true to form gewurztraminer from Beamsville Bench. Honeycomb, ripe pear aromas on the enticing nose. Lovely flow, gentle pear, quince roses, fine spices are drawn across a waxy palate, lingering with honeyed lemons on the finish. Acidity is buoyant and natural and the finish is spicy and lingering, welcoming pairing with Thai green curries.Prices:| ON | $30.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Tawse Riesling Quarry Road Vineyard 2013
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaElectric and exciting from first whiff to the lingering finish - impressive from this 7 year old certified organic and biodynamic vineyard. Pear, lime sherbet notes to open, before a vibrant, energetic palate. Ripe pear, mandarin, lime, eraser, minerality leap forward along the lean, pithy length of this wine, with a well placed cushion of pear and citrus sweetness. Verve and intensity, handled with finesse.Prices:| ON | $24.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Eau Vivre Cabernet Franc 2012
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPerfumed cassis, dusty raspberry aromas before a juicy black raspberry and cherry palate. Fine grained tannins and black pepper spice throughout the lively palate. Lovely fruit and length. Well done.Prices:| BC | $22.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Burrowing Owl Cabernet Franc 2012
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRed and black fruits team with lacquer, tar and dark cherry leather on the nose and palate, brightened with lifted acidity. The medium bodied palate carries tobacco, plum, dark cola and cherry compote along structured, lightly gritty tannins. Drinking well now, especially with grilled pork or ribs.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $45.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $44.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Clos du Soleil Capella 2013
British Columbia, CanadaSauvignon blanc is splashed with 9 percent sémillon in this finessed, bright grapefruit-laced blend. Elderflower, lemon curd, white peach, white grapefruit and tight apricot on the nose and palate, plumped slightly with a gentle waxy sheen and fine peach fuzz. Youthful crunchy acidity keeps this zippy; pour with simply prepared and grilled octopus or light white fish.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Farnese Fantini Primitivo 2013
Puglia, ItalyExpressive dark flowers, plum and perfumed blueberries open this smooth, fresh red. Black and red raspberries, blackcurrants, red liquorice and dried rosemary sit along finely grained tannins. The end is a bit clipped and granular, but I've no complaints for an $11 red - it's honest and ideal for your midweek pizza.Prices:| BC | $11.49 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Painted Wolf The Den Chenin Blanc 2014
Swartland, Coastal Region, South AfricaLovely quince, cream and pear aromas lead this Swartland chenin blanc. Wild herbs, pear blossoms, bitter pear skin and yellow apple take over the palate, kissed by honeyed sweetness and finishing with a powdery, talc note and texture. A little heat on the end - try with poached poultry or pork roulade.Prices:| BC | $16.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Graceland Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South AfricaPerfumed plums, cassis open this leathery cabernet sauvignon, textured with layers of red and black fruit, dark cocoa, fresh herbs and bright, lifted acidity. Tannins are structured, fine grained and support the stylish fruit very well. An earthy, brambled note on the finish that ends with bitter cherry and espresso; pair with pork tenderloin or tender lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $26.49 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Haywire Waters and Banks Sauvignon Blanc Raised in Concrete 2014
Summerland Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNamed for the Summerland vineyard owned by Terry Waters and Cathy Banks, this sauvignon blanc has been given a great deal of attention beginning with Chilean rock star Pedro Parra who calls the site rare and special. It was fermented and aged in concrete using wild yeast. The stony herbal blossoms and subtle lemon open what is a creamy textured white no doubt broadened via the concrete. More alluring wild herbs, lemon oil, light cream, lees, subtle wildflowers, clementine pith/peel and wild fennel stream on the palate, with fresh gooseberry-clad acidity and a spice lingering mineral finish. More Okanagan than sauvignon blanc its wine that reinvents itself with every sip. Pour alongside game fowl and richer fish dishes. Good value.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Le Vieux Pin Equinoxe Syrah 2012
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDeep cherry colour. Savoury, poultry spice, vanilla, white pepper, black cherry, leather aromas with a bit of tobacco. Dry, fresh, round, elegant palate with light, lean tannins. Dark chocolate, peppery, black cherry, plum, tobacco, savoury herb, resin and licorice flavours with some tea leaf notes and a hint of meat. A leaner, elegant style that is still sitting well with in itself that will develop over the next five to seven years.Prices:| BC | $80.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Backyard Vineyards Syrah 2013
British Columbia, CanadaSyrah is splashed with 6 percent viognier in this earthy, twiney red. Branch, dark cocoa, cassis and bacon fat notes dominate the round palate, finishing with dark flowers and big pepper. Lifted acidity refreshes, welcoming pouring alongside stewed beef or ribs.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Backyard Vineyards Nosey Neighbour White 2013
British Columbia, CanadaNosey Neighbours is an aromatic mix of pinot gris, riesling and gewürztraminer. Somewhat similar to last year but with a fresher cleaner style. The attack is off-dry with baked apple and butter aromas followed by peach nectarine skin, resin and pineapple flavours. Simple ready to drink summer salad wine.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Avalon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley, California, United StatesA better version in 2012 with a riper black olive tapenade, tobacco, black fruited nose. The attack is cabernet sauvignon substantial, boasting fruit from Rutherford, Atlas Peak, Chiles Valley District and Coombsville AVAs. The blend is 80/16/4/ cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc and the result is a juicy, spicy, smoky red with black cherries and boysenberries with the softer, warm, amply dusty Napa Valley tannin finish. Grilled steaks or firm, rich cheese would be a fine match.Prices:| BC | $29.29 | 750ml |
| NF | $20.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Fort Berens Late Harvest Riesling 2014
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaThe FB estate grown Late Harvest Riesling is 100 percent Lillooet and well worth investigating. The LH riesling nose is predictably expressive with peachy, apricot and orange blossom tones. The attack is fresh, with watery, orange, melon fruit flavours that are fun to sip. Fun and ready to drink it would be perfect with fresh fruit or a fruit tart.Prices:| BC | $20.70 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Church & State Wines Coyote Bowl Series Cabernet Franc 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA new line of wines with various catchy / questionable labels, the Lost Inhibitions wines question wine packaging conventions and open conversation, presumably more so as the bottle is drunk. This ripe, round blend of merlot, cabernet franc, malbec and petit verdot opens with perfumed dark florals, cassis, black plum, blackberry and ink. Violets lead the palate, where ripe cassis and plum notes return before ample black pepper on the finish. Approachable, soft and likeable, perfect for date night or blue cheese dressed burgers.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Obikwa Shiraz 2014
Western Cape, South AfricaRoasted cassis, smoked branch earthy and somewhat swampy. The powdery smooth palate carries sweet, off dry berry fruit, smoked branch, burnt coffee and black pepper notes. Simple, BBQ burger red.Prices:| BC | $8.69 | 750ml |
| ON | $9.45 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $11.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Obikwa Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Western Cape, South AfricaRoasted meats, earth and berry compote aromas open this smooth, simple cabernet sauvignon. Branch, sweet raspberry and cherry rule the palate, along soft, powdery tannins and up to a warm finish. Non-distinct for variety or provenance; a simple, fruity mid-week red for pizza.Prices:| BC | $8.69 | 750ml |
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06 August 2015
86PTS
Sandhill Sauvignon Blanc Sandhill Estate Vineyard 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBitter melon, pear skin and white peach aromas start this single vineyard sauvignon blanc. Rainier cherries, white grapefruit, grass and sour lemon notes on the moderate, simple palate, finishing in some burnt lemon notes. Try with gazpacho or melon-kissed ceviche.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc 2013
Sonoma County, California, United StatesLight toast and fresh green apple aromas lead to a fresh, fuller bodied palate. White honey, meadow florals, ripe gooseberry, melon and anise-kissed medicinal notes are lifted with streaking white grapefruit acidity, binding and narrowing this richer wine. Thirty-five percent has been fermented and rested in French oak, with the remainder in stainless, preserving the crisp orchard fruit. A nice balance, especially when paired with sablefish.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $24.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Santa Julia Pinot Grigio 2014
Mendoza, ArgentinaLight pear, lees, earthy, lemon oil and green apple aromas but with a strong sulphur note. Grapefruit rind, lemon, green apple, earthy, spicy flavours. Solid fruit but too much bitter grapefruit rind and struck matchstick on the finish. Decant and shake it up.Prices:| ON | $11.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $11.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Graffigna Centenario Pinot Grigio Reserve 2014
San Juan, ArgentinaFloral, citrus, green apple nose with pear, light lees and lemon oil notes. Full, juicy, dry palate with lemon oil, grapefruit, earth, spicy, nectarine and green apple flavours. A touch rind-y but good flavour intensity and balance. Ready to drink.Prices:| AB | $13.50 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.25 | 750ml |
| BC | $12.59 | 750ml |
| ON | $13.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Cusumano Nero d'Avola 2013
Sicily, ItalyCherry jam, licorice, spicy, floral nose with earthy, cardamom notes. Dry, elegant, fresh palate with very light tannins. Dark chocolate, peppery, earthy, tobacco, cherry and licorice flavours. A touch lean and dry on the finish but could use a year to round out or with lamb or duck dishes.Prices:| BC | $16.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
JoieFarm Plein de Vie Brut 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLively cranberry, apple fruit on the nose of this new, fun sparkling wine translated as "full of life". Kool-Aid red hue in the glass, this off-dry pinot meunier/pinot noir/chardonnay showers apples, cherry blossoms and tart rhubarb and cranberry on frothy palate. Pair with friends and summer.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Roodeberg Red 2012
Western Cape, South AfricaYou can tell how long this red Western Cape blend has been listed in Canada by the fact that the CSPC has only four digits. Sweet raspberry, red currant and cherry aromas. The smooth palate brings light smoke, sausage, red and black cherry and pepper to the snappy, slightly hot finish. Medium bodied, dry, with light tannin and well-knit fruit. Makes for a great mid-week pour with spaghetti, meatballs and cracked chili.Prices:| BC | $12.29 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Kismet Infinity Rosé 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDeep pink hue, this 100 percent merlot rosé opens with salted plums, roses and earthy notes on the nose. Off dry and fruity, the full, glossy palate shows ripe strawberry, plum and fine peppery spice with lower acidity. Not shy (14.5 percent alcohol), this is best matched to lightly spiced, flavourful Indian dishes.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wild Goose Mystic River Pinot Blanc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, pear, green apple, earthy, slightly grassy, herb aromas. Fresh, juicy, creamy but sweet and sour on the palate. Peach pit, lees, baked pear, earth and light honey and butter flavours. Solid fruit but styling is too rind-y and citrus-y with the sweetness and butter on the finish. Best with spicy dishes.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Wild Goose Autumn Gold 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA model of consistency this aromatic blended white mixes about a third of gewürztraminer, riesling and pinot blanc resulting in a delicious, flavourful white with citrus, honey and tangerine notes. The palate is spicy and fresh with off-dry orchard fruits, nectarine skin and lime rind highlights. You can sip this solo on the patio or serve with a chicken hot pot.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Road 13 Jackpot Syrah 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt’s been a while since we have tasted the Jackpot syrah and obviously we have been missing something. We just love the savoury meaty, peppery, floral nose with stony bits of black cherry and roasted coffee. The attack is dry and firm with super fresh acidity. The palate is equally electric with dense but highly taut black fruit wrapped in white pepper. Another excellent syrah from the south Okanagan and fairly priced. Lamb anyone?Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Major's Block Red Blend 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMerlot dominates Major’s block and good thing in this northern region. Bits of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel are mixed into fill out the flavours and its spine. I’m not a fan of the American/French oak blend mostly because it gives most wine a muddled mid-palate of oak in this case mixed with spicy cassis and blueberries. The finis is sweet with cloves and chocolate over an edge of acid. Grilled beef will tame the rough edges here.Prices:| BC | $21.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Backyard Vineyards Nosey Neighbour Red 2013
British Columbia, CanadaWarm spicy, peppery, cassis nose with bits of olive and cedar. The attack is warm and soft with simple, spicy, sweet and sour fruit and candied cranberry, confected notes in the dry tart finish. A hamburger red.Prices:| BC | $15.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Backyard Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
British Columbia, CanadaA nice jump up in ripeness from the 2010 it opens with a peppery tobacco leaf nose with cassis and rich, red fruit aromas. The attack is juicy if a touch astringent with more plums and berries, spice and fresh acidity. Still youthful and robust in a cabernet way but give it some time in the bottle or better yet grill a steak and taste pair up with some meat. The blend is 87/13 cabernet sauvignon/merlot.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Backyard Vineyards Pinot Gris 2014
British Columbia, CanadaLight floral, struck matchstick, pear, apple, lees aromas but low intensity. Round, soft, fresh but somewhat sweet palate with grapefruit, green apple, soapy, lees flavours with some bitterness and sulphur on the finish. Back to the drawing board.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Felino by Viña Cobos Malbec 2013
Mendoza, ArgentinaThis wine is mostly dialed in these days and the price remains relatively constant. Made by American winemaker/partner Paul Hobbs with Argentine partners Andrea Marchiori and Luis Bernard it remains a high quality, entry level Malbec. It’s always been generous but the oak is better handled to let the spice and pure, ripe, malbec fruit show through. If you like black cherries and licorice this is it. Prepare your steak and a classic chimichurri sauce and you are all set.Prices:| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $17.39 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $20.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Pascual Toso Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Mendoza, ArgentinaOpen warm earthy, tobacco, black olive, light cassis aromas. The attack is fresh, soft and warm with sweetish, milk chocolate, tobacco, resin, blackberry fruit flavours. Simple, commercial style with a fuzzy, vanilla oak covering. Too successful to care at this level?Prices:| BC | $15.15 | 750ml |
| SK | $15.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Eau Vivre Buddafull 2010
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPeppery, prune, mint, black cherry, light barnyard, floral nose with bits of cedar, coffee, tobacco, smoky leather, cassis and dried herb. Dry, warm, slightly tart palate on attack with coffee, vanilla, chocolate, cranberry, tobacco, resin and cassis flavours with a bit of black olive and roast pepper on the finish. A touch tart and oaky but with solid fruit in a more forward style. This will improve in bottle and further integrate with oak over the next 18 months. The blend is 52/27/15/6 cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, malbec, syrah.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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05 August 2015
87PTS
Clos du Soleil Rosé 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis bold and gusty cabernet sauvignon rosé pours a deep raspberry hue and opens with a rhubarb pie and candied strawberry nose. Off dry and fuller bodied, the ripe and juicy palate carries candied berries, ripe plum and wild raspberries. Quite concentrated, though crunchy rhubarb acidity keeps things fresh and tangy. Finishes with some heat; pair with a roast pork and cranberry sandwich or bacon and caramelized onion tart.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bench 1775 Pinot Gris 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHerbal meadow flowers and ripe peach open this concentrated, off-dry gris. Orchard fruits dominate the palate - peach fuzz and ripe flesh, along with yellow apple, pear, light honey and nutmeg spicing. Juicy and ripe, though finishes a bit hot; an ideal pour with mango chicken sandwich or peach and prosciutto.Prices:| BC | $21.50 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Young & Wyse Collection Viognier 2013
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLight honey, lees, ginger, butter, melon rind and a hint of orange aromas. Round, fresh, elegant, slightly soft palate with green apple, butter, apricot, light honey, citrus and ginger flavours. A lighter style that is lacking a bit of depth and intensity. A fine match for sablefish.Prices:| BC | $20.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Wave Series by Carmen Left Wave Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileThe Wave Series was created to demarcate wines made in the proximity of the cool Pacific, like this sauvignon blanc from Leyda. Asparagus, spring pea and passionfruit on the brash nose. The juicy palate is dominated by the same, along with green bell pepper, tart grapefruit, bitter herbs and gooseberry. A fresh, tropical and assertive style to partner with spot prawns. Good value.Prices:| BC | $11.49 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Blue Mountain Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA blend of two clones, one high density vineyard and 7-8 year old vines make up this sauvignon blanc quickly becoming one of BC's best. More complexities come via a whole cluster pressed ferment with wild yeast, and, 30 percent was barrel aged and fermented in French oak sur lie for 2-4 months. Stone, light toast and pear is brightened by tart green apple, white grapefruit and gooseberry in this finessed, medium bodied white. Fine lees and finer spices linger on the lengthy, savoury citrus finish. Can age for the next 5 years, but drinking beautifully now with halibut.Prices:| BC | $19.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Crios Torrontés by Susana Balbo Dominio de Plata 2014
ArgentinaSpicy, lees, lemon oil, floral, apricot and herb aromas. Fresh, creamy, juicy, elegant but lean palate with nectarine, ginger, green apple, lemon oil, lees and herb flavours. Well balanced if a shade lighter than last vintage. This should improve in the bottle over the next year. Try this with a grilled chicken salad.Prices:| BC | $14.39 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $14.50 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.50 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Moraine Pink Mountain Rosé 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCandied rose petals and strawberry jam aromas open this deeply hued, punchy rosé, a blend of malbec and merlot. Fuller bodied and mid-sweet, with raspberry jam, strawberry marshmallows and a brûlée-d pink grapefruit zest character. Acidity is moderate, though the finish is a bit hot; pair with maple candied smoked salmon.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Amphora VRM +15/10 2014
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaYear two of the Enns amphora project is another notch up the quality ladder taking us back to how wine was made a thousand years ago. Fermenting VRM (viognier, roussanne and marsanne) in terracotta clay amphorae is showing a lot of promise. The grapes come off sites in Osoyoos and the Black Sage area in Oliver. Picked the same day the juice and skins were fermented naturally in two 500L clay Amphorae. In all the juice and skins were left in the clay pots 75 days. The style is rich and fat with clean honey. Almond nougat notes to match its honey orange tinted colour and orange blossom notes. The finish is soft and long with ginger and baked pear notes. Warm rich and complex and finished under a glass stopper in nifty short antique bottle. Wine club only better get in line for next year.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
JoieFarm Muscat The Pure Grape (v) 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaVery floral, spicy, nectarine, minty, green apple aromas. Fresh, crisp, delicate, round palate with light sweetness. Green apple, floral, spicy, ginger, nectarine, soapy grapefruit flavours. A bit soapy on the finish but nice delicacy and varietal aromas.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
JoieFarm En Famille Reserve Gewurztraminer 2012
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, peach, light lychee, spicy, rose, red apple aromas. Fresh, round, juicy, but a bit soft and sweet with citrus, rose water, soapy litchi fruit, apple and peach flavours. Fine delicacy and varietal notes but could use a bit more weight and acidity to really shine.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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84PTS
Painted Wolf The Den Pinotage 2012
Coastal Region, South AfricaRoasted berry, earth, cola and branch opens the nose of this Coastal Region pinotage. The medium bodied palate shows roast meats, earth, thorny dark berries and gummy, sticky tannins. Rustic and finishes with some heat - best tamed with lamb, beef or hearty mushroom stew.Prices:| BC | $14.49 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap 2013
Western Cape, South AfricaThis syrah/mourvèdre/viognier opens with perfumed black plums, cassis, cracked spices and black pepper. Syrah rules the packed palate, with ripe cassis and black cherry, savoury smoked meats, tobacco, tar thorns, thyme and sage. Ample tannins tend slightly sticky, but support well the ripe, wild, perfumed fruit. An impressive twist on your typical syrah, and impressive value.Prices:| BC | $13.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $15.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $14.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.80 | 750ml |
| NF | $15.75 | 750ml |
| NS | $16.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $14.25 | 750ml |
| NB | $16.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $17.20 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Glen Carlou Grand Classique 2013
Paarl, Coastal Region, South AfricaPoppies, red currants and smoked cedar plank and gingersnap aromas open this spicy full bodied red, a blend of cabernet sauvignon/petit verdot/merlot/malbec/cabernet franc. Perfumed florals, fragrant raspberries, black cherry, leather, bergamot, ginger and five spice are swept up with ripe, slightly sticky tannins and finish with a trailing spice. Nice freshness throughout, making this interesting pour a great match for spiced and sticky short ribs.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Stag's Hollow Pinot Noir 2012
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCherry, earthy, celery salt, rooty, cedar nose with a touch of strawberry. Dry, smooth but lean and tart palate with more cool, celery salt, sour cherry, coffee, earthy, tobacco leaf flavours. Simple and somewhat thin expression of the variety. On to the next year.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $26.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Haywire White Label Pinot Noir Raised Concrete 2013
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNot a lot intervention here, the fruit is fermented in concrete tanks then spend time in old French oak barrels before heading to bottle. The textures are soft and round the fruit very sweet with that south Okanagan dried herbs character. It’s a fragrant mix of sweet strawberry fruit with earthy, stony mineral notes with a hint of spicy worsteshire sauce. Best with simply prepared roast chicken.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Quails' Gate Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaEarthy, lees, cherry, peppery, celery root, tobacco leaf and smoky aromas with a bit of carrot top and mint. Light, round, elegant but thin plate with light tannins. Raspberry, celery root, carrot, tobacco, earthy, vanilla, smoky herb flavours. Good finesse but lacks fruit concentration and length. Waiting for next year.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon 120 2013
Region del Valle Central, ChileSmoky, peppery, minty, cassis, bay, black olive, rubbery earth aromas. Dry, full, slightly tart palate with light tannins. Cassis, bay, black berry, smoky, tobacco, cedar and eucalyptus flavours. Fine for bbq meats but it remains somewhat reduce under screwcap and this will need some attention. Decant and shake liberally.Prices:| BC | $9.79 | 750ml |
| AB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $13.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| PEI | $14.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $13.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Santa Cristina Chianti Superiore 2012
Tuscany, ItalyBlack cherry jam, prune, gamey, smoked meat, balsamic, licorice, light floral and resin aromas. Dry, fresh, juicy but with some astringency. Coffee, black cherry jam, smoked meat, peppery, tobacco, balsamic, licorice root and herb flavours. Fairly rustic style but has good fruit ripeness with some tannins to be tamed with the steak or roast turkey.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $20.00 | 750ml |
| YK | $21.00 | 750ml |
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85PTS
J. P. Chenet Malbec 2012
FranceVery savoury, gamey, smoky, peppery, black cherry, prune and tobacco aromas. Dry, elegant, somewhat lean palate with some grainy tannins. Smoky prune, tobacco, leather, black cherry, savoury, resin and licorice flavours with some tea tannins on the finish. Not your Mendoza style but designed for roast meat nevertheless. Could use more fruit for the lean structure.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Achaval-Ferrer Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Mendoza, ArgentinaDark black cherry colour with peppery, smoky, leather, black berry jam, savoury, dill, floral, sausage and earth aromas. Dry, fresh, juicy, round palate with cassis jam, black berry, coffee, black pepper, tobacco and herb flavours. A surprisingly forward style but with fine fruit intensity. Drink now with a steak.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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04 August 2015
88PTS
Mistaken Identity Bliss 2014
Southern Gulf Islands, British Columbia, CanadaOrganically farmed pinot noir from estate vineyards go into this dry, crisp and light rosé. Gentle summer strawberries and red apples lead the delicate nose and silken palate. A pink grapefruit crispness closes out the finish. Simple, pretty and charming - ideal for your summer sipping.Prices:| BC | $17.30 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Moraine Viognier 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA touch frizzante when you crack the screwcap, the nose is an appealing mix of orchard fruits, citrus and watermelon. The attack is similar with a touch less intensity this year with more melon, honey and dried apricot and a sweet and sour finish. The winery suggest Indian curry dishes, or serve well chilled on the patio.Prices:| BC | $16.50 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nautilus Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandHeady passionfruit, melon, green pepper and hedgerow open this juicy, crisp Marlborough sauvignon blanc. The finessed, lively palate carries fresh lemon and lime, tangerine, Asian pear, lemongrass and passionfruit, finishing with fine white pepper and jasmine spicing. Fruit-driven and spring fresh, a vibrant pour for fragrant Thai green curry or Indian spiced spot prawns.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $23.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $22.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Santa Carolina Sauvignon Blanc Reserva Leyda Estate 2013
Valle de Leyda, Valle de San Antonio, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAssertive passionfruit, melon, smoked stone and pineapple rind. The creamy palate carries the whiff of smoke, alongside asparagus, gooseberry, grass and tart, green tropical fruits. Juicy and bright, ready for your ceviche or goat cheese tart. Good value.Prices:| BC | $12.29 | 750ml |
| AB | $10.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $12.00 | 750ml |
| NF-LAB | $11.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Church & State Wines Coyote Bowl Series Cabernet Franc 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPerfumed berries and downy, dusky blue fruit on the nose of this fresh cabernet franc. Ripe, perfumed black cherry, dense cassis is appealingly cut with a bitter black current edge, and lifted with well integrated freshness. Tannins are structured, well supportive of the density. Will cellar for 3-5 years easily. Try now with pork belly.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Van Westen Vineyards Viognier 2014
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRipe pear, gooseberry, orange and apricot blossom open the nose of this voluptuous, off-dry viognier sourced from Granite Ridge and Orlando Vineyards on Naramata Bench. Sugared pear, lime peel, lime cordial carry the driving palate through tight reins, allowing viognier's expressivity without oversaturation. Honeysuckle, pear and apple blossom linger on the spicy finish. Very well styled. Try this with turkey.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tinhorn Creek Gewürztraminer 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe best we can remember with such a fresh juicy demeanour. Awash in aromatics from litchi to rosewater and orange blossoms. The palate follows the same themes adding balance and brightness to this off-dry spicy white. I’m thinking a spicy curry, ribs or even sweet and sour chicken.Prices:| BC | $14.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Monte Creek Ranch Riesling 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis wine was a favourite among some of the judges at The Nationals in Niagara Falls this year. From a pioneering wine region in the Thompson Valley, ten minutes outside of Kamloops. The nose is a stand-offish mix of yellow fruits and guava with some nectarine skin notes. There is surprising intensity on its weighty palate with more yellow fruits, kiwi and apple flavours and some nutty mineral notes in the back end. Some bitter pear skin trails on the finish. An impressive start for this label and we hope it tracks down this path moving forward. Good value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 375ml |
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88PTS
Road 13 Viognier Low Yield Wines 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAnother rich ripe version of the variety from 2014 similar to the Laughing Stock but perhaps a touch stonier and more mineral. It is fresh on the attack and fragrant with a soft, gentle palate. Juicy peaches and vanilla dominate the palate and the finish. Long ripe delicious styling. Ready to drink. Try this with salmon or sablefish. Only 200 cases made.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Laughing Stock Vineyards Viognier +07/10 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe LS viognier comes out of the Perfect Hedge Vineyard in Osoyoos. Where they are plenty of heats units to ripen this grape. The nose is classic orange blossoms with a pinch of honeysuckle. The attack is rich and full with honeysuckle, orange rind and spice. A big, rich weighty almost sweet white reminiscent of southern France. The grapes were whole cluster pressed and fermented in 40% stainless, 40% French oak and 20% concrete eggs before ageing in a mix of oak, stainless steel and concrete. Super ripe and ready to drink this is a power house version of viognier.Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
JoieFarm En Famille Reserve Pinot Noir 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPrices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
JoieFarm A Noble Blend 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhat a difference a year makes. Crafted in the spirit of Edelzwicker, the traditional blend of Alsace, this gewürztraminer, riesling, pinot auxerrois, pinot blanc, muscat, schoenberger blend is sourced from up and down the Okanagan. Very fragrant, floral notes with pear blossom, white flowers, anise and lime pith in the lead. Off-dry, pear drop, candied lime and lemon peel, apple blossom and fine spice swell with a juicy freshness on the well knit palate. I like this with Vietnamese or Indian dishes.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $34.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nk'Mip Cellars Dreamcatcher 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis aromatic white will impress with its balance, and price. Bright lemon, gooseberry, lime pith, ripe pear and an herbal lift entice on the nose. Asian pear, tangerine, kiwi and gooseberry rush the juicy palate, and linger with candied lime peel. Lovely limey citrus throughout; a welcome pour for papaya salad or Vietnamese dishes.Prices:| BC | $14.79 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Monster Vineyards White Knuckle 2014
British Columbia, CanadaOff dry and fleshy, this blend of pinot gris, viognier, verdejo, riesling, chardonnay and muscat carries lemon blossoms, florals, candied pear and yellow apple. Soft and gentle.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Monster Vineyards Riesling 2014
British Columbia, CanadaThis is a fun sweet, soft, easy sipping style of Riesling for patio parties and spicy barbecue foods. The nose is fresh and clean with a baked apple and citrus noes. The attack is similar with more baked apple and candied lime, honey and canned grapefruit. Ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Robin Ridge Sparkling Finch 2012
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis crisp, traditional method bubble blends chardonnay and pinot noir into a crisp, dry and lively Similkameen sparkler. Toast, green apple and cracked stone aromas are the entry to a tight lemon pith, chalky, green apple bubble. Body and concentration are light but focussed - this leaves the palate as quickly as bubbles can pop. That's not a negative - it just requires filling up with another sip, stat. A great pour with salty starters or snacks. Kudos for dialling this wine in from the previous vintage we tasted.Prices:| BC | $26.90 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Averill Creek Gewurztraminer 2014
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaFloral, spicy, rose soap, light peach, nectarine aromas with a hint of lychee and green apple. Dry, fresh, juicy but slightly lean palate with granny smith, lime, green peach, rose water, lees and a touch of lychee flavours. Delicate, brisk style with lighter concentration. Needs a year to flesh out a bit.Prices:| BC | $15.82 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Corcelettes Trivium 2013
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe old Herder Estate is operating under new ownership, a Swiss family Baessler and the winery is named after their home farm town Corcelettes. Trivium is a 50/36/14 mix of chasselas, gewürztraminer and pinot gris all grown in the Similkameen. The goal is a crisp, expressive white with floral fruity tones and the result is close. Bits of rose petal, yellow fruit with just a hint of stony mineral notes underneath (more please) with a medium crisp finish. A fine summer salad sipper or try this with a seafood pasta.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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03 August 2015
80PTS
Mistaken Identity Truth 2014
Southern Gulf Islands, British Columbia, CanadaIf we tell the truth… look for a big faulty, bruised apple nose and flavours with some bitterness underneath. Back to the drawing board.Prices:| BC | $17.30 | 375ml |
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86PTS
Twin Islands Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandJalapeño, green pepper, gooseberry and white peach open this juicy and aromatic Marlborough sauvignon blanc, and continue on the intense, creamy palate. Bell pepper, lemon pith, passionfruit and a pungent herbal note close out the crisp finish. Solid, simple, consistent and fruity - pour with vegetarian Chinese or Thai.Prices:| BC | $17.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
The Ned Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandThe Ned series is names for the tallest peak in the Wither HIlls range, and the mountain is a symbol of Marlborough. Vibrant and zesty gooseberry, white grapefruit, cut grass and apricot fuzz, with pointed passionfruit and kiwi on the palate and a tangerine oil finish. Juicy and tart and welcoming kiwi style. Solid value.Prices:| NS | $21.00 | 750ml |
| BC | $14.79 | 750ml |
| YK | $18.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
River Stone Merlot 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDusty wood, cassis, violet leaves and black currant on the nose. Structured and savoury black cherry, tobacco, chocolate and thorn on the palate, brightened with a lifted spike of cool mint. Pour with grilled steak.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Deakin Estate Shiraz 2014
Victoria, AustraliaWhiffs of tar, rubber and blackberry open this simple, lighter style shiraz. Smoked branch offsets perfumed plum on the moderate, soft palate, though the perfumed fruit is somewhat overshadowed by toasty, smokey notes. Dark cocoa and black pepper on the finish.Prices:| BC | $13.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $13.00 | 750ml |
| NB | $14.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $13.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
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02 August 2015
85PTS
Jackson-Triggs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRipe pear, gooseberry and pink grapefruit open this soft and juicy sauvignon blanc. Grapefruit, melon, subtle florals and a pillow of sweet candied pear complete the simple, medium bodied white. Chill this down for the patio.Prices:| BC | $10.49 | 750ml |
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88PTS
JoieFarm Riesling iv 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWhite peach, honeydew melon and lime blossom open the nose of this fragrant, delicate riesling. A tight, narrow drop, with perfumed freesia, lime blossom, orange creamsicle, pink grapefruit and a mild wildflower honey on the off-dry finish. Lean, floral riesling ready to drink this summer with soft cheeses and charcuterie. *April 2016: building slight and lovely weight on the palate, with lime cordial richness.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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01 August 2015
88PTS
Haywire Pink Bub Bottle Fermented & Aged 2013
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA cooler mountainside vineyard near Oliver was the source for the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes in Pink Bub (there is a 375ml Baby Bub out in the world as well). At disgorging, a red wine dosage is added for colour. Tart red and green apples, tight cherry, youthful strawberry and a kiss of sweetness is entirely gobbled up by racy acidity. Ends tart and zesty and ready for canapés or brunch - especially alongside prosciutto, figs and melon.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Inniskillin Klose Vineyard Riesling 2014
Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaA disappointing look at this single vineyard riesling that comes off flat and heavy on the palate. The nose is a mix of citrus oil, orange blossoms and white peaches. The attack is rich and flavourful but the acidity fails to kick in for me. Solid but not very electric look at Niagara riesling.Prices:| ON | $25.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Intrigue I Do Sparkling 2014
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMerlot and riesling may make for odd companions, but here are tapped a medium pink hued, off-dry rosé. Fragrant perfume, pear blossoms, candied strawberry and raspberry notes lead this pretty, accessable wine. The riesling character dominates, but is plumped up with candied berry notes and spice on the finish. With a name like I Do, I can only expect they're going after the wedding market.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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85PTS
Intrigue Riesling 2014
Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNot up to the previous edition this off-dry riesling comes off as a bit green and under ripe yet with quite a bit of residual sugar. A cooler greener version of last year with candied green apples, tangy lemon and honey. Bits of citrus and honey but with an herbal undertone and a sweet aftertaste. Try with barbecue ribs or an Indian curry and let the sugar works its magic on the heat.Prices:| BC | $16.90 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Poplar Grove Syrah 2012
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSeven percent cabernet sauvignon lends a skiff of support to this savoury, red fruited syrah. Leather, anise, cassis, stone, fragrant raspberry, red currant, tobacco and bitter cherry is carried along fine grained, lightly textured tannins. Pour with pork tenderloin or rustic wild mushroom and bacon tart.Prices:| BC | $34.90 | 750ml |
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83PTS
Enrico Winery Ortega 2013
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaOrtega is winter hardy and has found a home on Vancouver Island. The Enrico is very light and ethereal with minimal fruit an intensity. Fresh if not a bit watery with light floral undertone and hints of green fruits. Try this with sushi salmon rolls.Prices:| BC | $16.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
JoieFarm Riesling (iv) A Delicate Balance 2013
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaGranny smith apple, lime, grapefruit, light lees and grassy aromas. Fresh, creamy, juicy, off-dry palate with lime rind, granny smith, spicy, green apricot, herb and floral flavours. Solid balance and fruit intensity if a bit rind-y but youthful. Give it a year in bottle or drink with summer seafood. Well made. Retasted August1, 2014. Perfect now.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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September 2015