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Tastings: September 2025
26 September 2025
88PTS
Dirty Laundry Unoaked Chardonnay 2024
Washington, United StatesThe '24 Chardonnay comes out of Yakima Valley, Washington, although it’s tough to tell because it tastes very much like a Dirty Laundry wine. It is bright and citrusy, fresh, and packed full of sweet orchard fruits, led by red apple and peach. There is no oak here, allowing the fruit to be the star. Wine pairings include crab legs and prawns, lighter pasta dishes, goat cheese, Camembert, and even nuttier cheeses like Fontina.Prices:| BC | $20.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Meyer Family Vineyards Chardonnay McLean Creek Road Vineyard 2023
Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaAn Okanagan benchmark for style and enjoyment, the 2023 chardonnay from winemaker Chris Carson has survived the heat of 2023 to give us another Meyer treat that sings Okanagan Falls in a way few others can. It has a somewhat abnormal light gold colour. Still, the wine retains its elegant profile with bright, lemony forepalate and a creamy, leany, citrusy mid-palate supported by a modest 22% new oak. It is hard not to drink this wine now, so don't bother to try. Enjoy.Prices:| BC | $32.26 | 750ml |
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88PTS
River Stone Unoaked Chardonnay Good Neighbours Series 2024
Horse Heaven Hills, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThe Good Neighbours Series is the River Stone Crafted in BC / replacement wines for the 2024 vintage. The fruit is from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, in the Columbia Valley, WA. The style mirrors the River Stone style, pitching fresh green apple with a crunchy mid-palate and citrus finish. Simple, clean, fresh, and ready to drink with crab cakes or fish tacos.Prices:| BC | $24.90 | 750ml |
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25 September 2025
89PTS
Tommasi Valpolicella Ripasso 2021
Veneto, ItalyThis Ripasso has spent near 2 weeks on Amarone skins, giving extra oomph and richness to the corvina (70%), rondinella (25%), and corvinone (5%) blend. Ripe cherry, sweet baking spice, and subtle leather work through the medium+ body, with some sticky tannins hugging the sides through a bitter cherry finish. A freshness here welcomes food pairings, especially anything ragu.Prices:| BC | $37.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $31.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $31.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $20.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Famiglia Pasqua Amarone della Valpolicella 2017
Veneto, ItalyThis apassimento wine blends corvina, corvinone, rondinella, and negrara, planted on calcareous clays and gravels, and all harvested very late and left to dry on bamboo racks and straw mats. The process desiccates the grapes to 25% of their weight, concentrating the remaining fruit and sugars. After approximately 3 months, the raisinated fruit is pressed and fermented in stainless, after which it rests in French barrels for 20 months. Ripe and rich with baked plum, bittersweet cassis, dark cocoa, and worked leather, though this full+ bodied red (15%) still carries a freshness that moves it along its plumped, sinewy tannins. A rich wine for equally rich braised meats.Prices:| BC | $54.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $43.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $50.00 | 750ml |
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24 September 2025
88PTS
Monte Antico Toscano 2020
Santa Lucia, Pisa, Tuscany, ItalyMonte Antico was founded in 1977 by Neil and Maria Empson, spurred on by their love for Tuscany. The Empsons asked a longtime friend, famed winemaker Franco Bernabei, to style a blend of 85/10/5 sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot. Most years, this wine overdelivers for its price and role as a mid-week dinner wine. It is soft sangiovese with bright red cherries and plums, and a subtle dusting of oak. Ready to drink with a funghi pizza or pasta dish. Good value.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| NB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Rocca delle Macie Chianti Riserva 2022
Tuscany, ItalyThis Chianti, produced during a challenging vintage, opens with classic sangiovese traits, including plum and raspberry, complemented by subtle floral nuances. On the palate, it presents a light body with a brief finish, marked by earthy forest brush that lends a dryness to the aftertaste. It is currently suitable for consumption, in the true style of a pizza or spaghetti red.Prices:| ON | $16.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $16.15 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2023
Tuscany, ItalyPèppoli is a single estate in Chianti Classico owned and farmed by Marchesi Antinori. It is primarily sangiovese and complemented by other indigenous grapes, each fermented and separately aged in stainless steel before ageing for nine months in large, older Slavonian oak barrels. As hot as 2023 was in Italy, one of the warmest years ever, Tuscany mainly emerged unscathed, in a richer style. Ripe fruit with a thread of chocolate, this wine will be a hit with many. The textures are luxurious, opening with noticeably softer, fleshy black cherry with dense, sweet tannins. Polished in a way most Classicos are not. Drink or hold.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Guffo Sangiovese Merlot 2024
Abruzzo, ItalyLooking for value is never easy in BC, but this rustic red from Abruzzo meets most of the guidelines. The 55% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot blend from Cantina Tollo is called Gufffo, meaning owl in Italian, and by extrapolation, hopefully, a smart wine. The colour is medium red, as is the plummy spicy fruit and slightly gritty tannins. A spaghetti red, especially with a meat sauce, or a similarly bold pizza, would be the perfect match.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico 2021
Siena, Tuscany, ItalyFèlsina has ancient roots in Tuscany that go back to the Etruscans, who introduced grapevines and olive trees to the region. Nestled in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Fèlsina was a much sought after rest stop in the Middle Ages. The property has pioneered massale selection in Chianti since 1983, preserving genetic diversity within Sangiovese, vital to forming the estate's identity and commitment to ongoing quality. There should never be any obvious oak or chocolate or cooked fruit in Chianti Classico, and this '21 Berardenga complies with an earthy, leathery, spicy, savoury underside that offsets a vibrant, crunchy red fruit topside, housed in salinity, minerality, and herbs. Complex yet inviting, it is classic Classico from a vintage that will be in the running for the Vintage of the Century. Countless Italian dishes work here; you only need to use your imagination.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Clos Fornelli Niellucciu 2023
Corsica, Sud de France, FranceClos Fornelli is a family property of 45 hectares on the eastern coast of Corsica, 18 of which are planted with vines. Owner Josée Vanucci and her husband Fabrice Couloumère organically farm indigenous Corsican varieties, such as this Niellucciu (sangiovese), with a kiss of Minustellu. From deep alluvial soils, this was native fermented in a tank before aging in concrete for up to 1 year. Wild plum, black raspberry, wild blackberry is gripped with fine, thorny tannins, wrapping around an alluringly pure plum core. Acidity is easily lofted, stony and saline, the latter lingering far on the finish of this charming red.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino Fiore del Vento 2019
Tuscany, ItalyWinemaker Hayo Loacker, driven by his passion for Burgundy's vineyard system, has spent a decade studying the terroir and vines at Corte Pavone, aiming to produce Brunello crus that reflect their unique origins. Today, there are seven Brunello single vineyards on the property, whose individual blocks are subjected to yearly selections, meaning the wines are constantly evolving. Loacker says the anemone, or the Fiore del Vento, is a sensitive, delicate flower that senses and reacts to every little breeze, just like the wine Fiore del Vento. This is an elegant presentation and much more refined than its many competitors with fleeting red cherry, dark plums, and forest floor, complemented by bright acidity. Ready to drink now.Prices:| BC | $119.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico 2021
Tuscany, ItalyVolpaia originates from high altitude, predominantly sandstone vineyards located in the historical centre of Chianti. This wine is produced from organically grown grapes with a small proportion of merlot, using traditional methods where earthy and spicy notes are more prominent than the fruit. The aromas include subtle cherry and wild plum, while tart red berries and bitter espresso are present on the finish. It pairs well with slow cooked pork dishes and is ready to drink.Prices:| ON | $32.95 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Monte Antico Toscano 2020
Santa Lucia, Pisa, Tuscany, ItalyAs ever, this remains a consistent, simple Toscana blend of sangiovese, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Light/medium bodied, with cherry, smoked plum, and leather framed with soft, downy tannins, finishing briefly with that bitter Italian cut. An easy sausage pizza red.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| NB | $21.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $21.00 | 750ml |
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23 September 2025
88PTS
No Compromise Orange Carricante NV
Sicily, ItalyNo Compromise Orange is a skin contact carricante, from Sicilia's Mt Etna and its volcanic slopes. Pouring a glowing golden hue, this draws honeysuckle, apricot blossoms, and peach fuzz along the slender palate, with modest tangerine acidity keeping it afloat, and finely buzzy / ashy skin tannins keeping it interesting. Keep this in mind for food pairings (grilled peach and prosciutto and burrata come to mind).Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Natte Valleij Axle Chenin Blanc 2024
Darling, Coastal Region, South AfricaCinsault-centric Alex Milner crafted this white for his Chenin-loving wife, sourcing fruit from 1985 planted dry farmed bush vines in Darling's decomposed granites. The vineyard was picked twice, 1 week apart, and each lot was partial basket press / partial destemmed with 5 hours skin contact. Each part went into to older 225L barrels for native ferment save for the final destemmed portion, which continues on in foudre. It remained in the barrels post-ferment with regular bâtonnage for a couple of months, and then a quiet rest until the following spring, totalling 9 months in all. From the lower-yielding 2024 vintage, the concentration here is a step up from 2023, with ripe pear, white peach, grilled quince, toasted cashew, and downy lees swirling on the textural palate. A fine line of lemony acidity draws this old vine chenin through the stony finish. Drinking well now, ideally with fuller bodied dishes to match.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
JoieFarm En Famille Gewurztraminer 2023
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis En Famille Gewurztraminer is estate grown on the Naramata Bench, featuring clones 643 and 47. While nodding to Alsace, it presents a distinctly BC profile with crisp, spicy, floral green apple, ripe pear, pineapple, black licorice, and citrus rind. Off-dry yet not cloying, it spends ten months on its lees plus a year in bottle before release. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $30.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Artemis Karamolegos Terra Nera Assyrtiko 2023
Aegean Islands - Santorini, The Islands, GreeceArtemis Karamolegos is one of the most dynamic wineries on the unique island of Santorini. Led by his grandfather, who started making wine and cultivating vines as a hobby in the 1950s, Artemis founded the winery in 2004. They own just over 3ha of vineyards (some over 100 years old) across Pyrgos, Megalorchori, Exo Gonia, Akrotiri and Fira, and have long term contracts to farm another 5 hectares. This 'entry level' Assyrtiko comes from relatively young vines, averaging only 50 years, from lower altitude vineyards. It was fermented and aged in stainless, on lees, for 6 months. Juicy and sleek with tangerine, lime blossom, mandarine pith, and pear skin skipping along a slender palate, lit with pink grapefruit acidity that lingers on the stony finish. A lively and smart example to the grape and region.Prices:| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Thierry Delaunay Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Touraine, Loire, FranceThis poor man's Sancerre is a winner in 2023. This sauvignon blanc is a blend of plots sprinkled across Touraine that is cool fermented, aged on its lees for three months with regular stirring, and offers a bright nose of lemon, green apple, nectarine and wild herbs. The palate is crisp, with refreshing acidity and classic varietal character. Perfect for shellfish, especially oysters, and young chèvre. Well done. Super price. Not in BC because?Prices:| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
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87PTS
See Ya Later Ranch Gewurztraminer 2024
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThis '24 replacement gew is from Washington State. This is simple, straightforward stuff, but it's well made. It's just off-dry but with enough acidity to keep it fresh. Look for classic litchi mixed with a juicy melon palate. With more sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures than the Okanagan, Columbia Plateau brings extra tropical fruit and spice to the glass. Ready to drink. The winery suggests matching it with BBQ wings, lamb curry, or spicy shrimp.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Pfaff Gewurztraminer 2023
Alsace, FranceThis is a textbook introductory Alsace gew that delivers all you want for the price. As before, it has a fine intensity, pitching honey, litchi, apricot marmelade with round, soft textures and plenty of Alsace spice with a twist of oil. Serve well chilled with a classic cheese quiche or a Moroccan tagine.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Alkina Kin Semillon 2024
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaAlkina is a certified organic and biodynamic Barossa farm on the traditional lands of the Ngadjuri people. The founders honour and learn from the land’s Indigenous history (Alkina is an indigenous girl's name meaning 'moon') through their 43 hectares of vines, with the eldest planted in the 1950s. Kin is primarily younger vine sem, with a splash of semillon gris, and partial old vine material. Fruit was destemmed save for 10% whole berries, while the sem gris was left to cold soak overnight before basket pressing to concrete and MLF with time on lees in amphora before joining the rest of the stainless blend. Energetic and joyous, as the best young sem is, this rings along the palate with shining lime, white grapefruit, green fig, and crunchy pear tempered by a fine lees bed, finishing in a very long saline wash. Lovely purity and vibrancy here, and nothing but time ahead.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Cellier du Pont D'Arc Ardeche Blanc 2024
Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThis delicious sauvignon blanc/grenache blanc hails from the Ardeche region of southeastern France. The cuvée is made from the first free run and press juices to preserve the freshness and aromatic intensity of the grapes. Post-ferment, it spends several more months on its lees to build texture and mouthfeel. Look for a straw colour and a refreshing nose of lemon, lime, green apple, pear, and a streak of black cherry that spills onto the palate. Pure, clean, and elegant, it is a wine to enjoy during the rest of summer and take you into fall. Perfect with the classic goat cheese match or local shellfish. It's currently on sale until the end of the month at BCLS. It is also HVE certified, Haute Valeur Environnementale, signifying that the wine comes from a farm that prioritizes biodiversity, minimizes pesticide use, manages water resources effectively, and pays close attention to the protection of flora and fauna. Love the value.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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22 September 2025
89PTS
Frind Estate The Premier 2023
British Columbia, CanadaThe Premier is Frind's flagship red, featuring a varying blend of grapes led by merlot at 50-60%, with any of the following syrah, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, malbec, cabernet franc, teroldego, and marechal foch added in, which gives it its deep, dark colour. It was built to be a palate pleaser with ripe black cherries, dark plums, vanilla, all wrapped up in an early drinking style. Barbecued ribs or pork roast would both work here.Prices:| BC | $44.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Famille Sichel Château Daviaud 2022
Bordeaux, FranceAt the end of the 1960s, the Sichel Family firmly established itself in the southern part of Côtes de Bordeaux by setting up the Bel Air cellar to become the first Bordeaux negociant to possess its own winemaking cellar. In 2002, the family purchased Château Argadens in Saint André du Bois, and at the start of 2020, they took control of Château Daviaud, a property they were familiar with. The vineyards are planted on slopes, facing south/south west, on the right bank of the Garonne River. The winemaking is traditional and the aging in oaks lasts six months. I enjoyed 2020, and 2022 may be better. Expect cherries and currants to have a fine structure, and the class only Bordeaux can produce. Charming is the word again for this delicious modern reference to everyday Bordeaux. A serious bargain.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Château Landereau 2020
Bordeaux, FranceThis is a pleasant midweek red that comes with balance, class, and a sense of not being more than it is. Expect earth and black cherries, while the palate includes dried plums and blueberries with a touch of sticky tannins. It is ready to drink and would be a match for flank steak and frites. It is grown over clay-siliceous soil with gravelly ridges. The blend is 70/15/15 merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc aged for 15 months in French oak vats and barrels.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Hillside Montage 2022
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis Bordeaux inspired blend highlights the unique characteristics of the Naramata Bench terroir. Developed in partnership with Tightrope Winery, the blend features merlot predominantly sourced from their vineyards, complemented by Hillside cabernet franc harvested from both the Wickert and Occhi Dolci Vineyards. The wine has undergone two years of barrel aging in French oak. Expect a lean, fresh style with subtle dark fruit supported by a refined tannin structure, and an elegantly integrated finish.Prices:| BC | $55.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Chronos Ouroboros 2020
British Columbia, CanadaThe blend here is 56% merlot and 44% syrah sourced from the terraced Reluctant Dragon Vineyard just north of Summerland. The wine was fermented in French oak barrels, positioned upright with their heads off, before being filled with hand selected fruit. Typically, only one or two barrels make the final cut, resulting in less than 50 cases of Ouroboros. It is a rich red with plum, ripe blueberry, and boysenberry with a dose of cigar and vanilla. There is no rush to drink this wine, but if you must, serve it with big, rich dishes such as a Tomahawk steak, roast lamb, or a favourite game dish.Prices:| BC | $90.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Evolve Momento 2021
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada2021 was not an easy year to make wine, as evidenced by this edition of Momento. The blend is a mix of cabernet franc, merlot, and syrah, pitching a lightly smoky nose and palate that dulls most of the other notes in the wine. The finish is dry and short. I await 2022.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Hester Creek The Judge 2022
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWith the addition of new vineyards, the 2022 harvest yielded a larger crop than average that got off to a late start. A warm summer and a long, pleasant fall remedied most problems in the vineyard. The winery describes the 2022 vintage as a milestone year for producing exceptional, fruit forward and age worthy wines. The Judge is made from old vines dating back to 1968, the final ’24 freeze outcome notwithstanding, and in 2022, it is really shining. Winemaker Mark Hopley has been refining the blend, the oak regime, and generally freshening up the wine, but perhaps its best attribute is its silky texture. The grapes are meticulously sorted, cold soaked and fermented in separate lots in specialized Italian tanks designed to extract the ideal level of flavour gently. The latest blend is 47% merlot, 34% cabernet franc, 17% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot, and 1% malbec, aged 24 months in French oak. A merlot, cabernet franc blend is the recipe for success in the South Okanagan, and with even less cabernet sauvignon this year, it is even better. Fresher, tighter, with refined black fruit, cocoa, savoury dried spices, and cedar all together to create a symphony that is polished to a tee. The Judge continues to up its game among the elite reds in BC.Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $95.99 | 1500ml |
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88PTS
Mayhem Cabernet Merlot 2023
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaDespite lower yields than previous vintages, the fruit quality here was consistently high. This wine is a blend of 79% merlot and 21% cabernet franc, hand picked from three South Okanagan vineyards: Anarchist Mountain Vineyard; Pheasant Run Vineyard; and Ryegrass Road Vineyard. Each lot was harvested and fermented separately before aging 11 months in French oak barrels. The palate shows notes of fresh red berries with a savoury swirl of South Okanagan garrigue. The tannins are soft, with a dry finish that includes sage and spice. Burgers, ribs, or a meaty spaghetti sauce all work here. Solid.Prices:| BC | $26.18 | 750ml |
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19 September 2025
88PTS
Evolve Pinot Noir 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe latest Evolve Pinot presents as spicy and mouth-filling up front with plenty of black cherry, baking spice, and forest floor that penetrate the wine from front to back. It's fresh, with moderate alcohol, giving it a consistency of weight and style, and providing a platform for food. The tannins are silky, adding to the finish of this wine. Anything mushroom is a good match here, or a nice piece of soft cheese. The wine is a single site pick from Naramata, destemmed and fermented in open top stainless steel tanks using the labour intensive délestage method. Rather than enhancing extraction, the process promotes a fruitier character, resulting in a softer wine with inviting complexity. Post fermentation, the wine is gently pressed and transferred into French oak barrels (20% new), allowing it to age gracefully for 12 months. This limited production bottling yields only 200 cases.Prices:| BC | $41.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Plume Pinot Noir 2023
Oregon, United StatesPlume has been jumping in and out of the country for a while now, having first started in California. Quails' Gate owns the brand, so it is only natural that they would get around to Oregon sooner rather than later. In 2023, this fruit came off high elevation vineyards in Dayton, Oregon, giving one an inside look at the terroir of the Willamette Valley. The colour is ruby red light, the nose is a pleasant mix of leafy red berry with a classic twist of earth and forest floor. On the palate, the textures are silky smooth, with wild black cherries and earth. It is easy to sip and ready to drink with anything salmon.Prices:| BC | $48.00 | 750ml |
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18 September 2025
90PTS
JoieFarm PTG 2023
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe flagship Joie blend is a little-known French blend tagged PTG (or passe-tout-grains), which is a copy of an old Burgundian blend featuring pinot noir and gamay. The nose is a big hit of spice and red cherries that pulls you into the glass. The attack is round and soft, the fruit is juicy with more spice and persistence through the finish. The fruit is perfectly balanced by a dusting of earth and silky pinot tannins. Friendly and gulpable; be careful.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $42.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
1 Mill Road Pinot Noir Home Block 2023
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaRetasted in September, noting that the fine core of fruit that framed this pinot early on has slid into the mix seamellesly to support the graphite, black tea, and spice. Sleek, velvety, and long this wine has impeccable balance from front to back. Quiet, complex, and inviting, it is showing well right now with a 30 minute decant. It was fermented using 30% whole cluster and only 20 days on skins to contain the intensity and robustness of the '23 harvest. This wine showcases a remarkable blend of skilled winemaking and experience. Bright and fresh upfront, but that fades into a more moody pinot in the finish. Winemaker Ben Bryant excels at picking at the right time, often earlier than others, ensuring he never worries about getting enough acidity. He says in the Okanagan, you achieve plenty of natural extracts if you take enough care at the winery, thus the balance we see here. It was aged in a mix of barrels and larger puncheons to enhance the balance.Prices:| BC | $65.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Hillside Dickinson Vineyard Pinot Gris 2024
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Dickinson Vineyard Gris has been released to club members at a hefty $50 a bottle, a price tag that suggests that its 22 case production was the only significant local wine made at Hillside in 2024. The wine was fermented in older oak and given frequent bâtonnage of the lees to protect its freshness and produce some extra volume. The style is juicy with pure pear dressed in citrus. This is a sophisticated pinot gris that elevates the game.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Pfaff Pinot Gris 2023
Alsace, FrancePfaff consistently overdelivers for its price range, while managing to bottle the distinctive Alsace style. On the palate, this wine portends richness and length, offering layers of ripe melon and spicy ginger complemented by a slightly off-dry profile of smoky yellow fruits and subtle honeysuckle. Expressive without excess, it pairs well with spicy sushi rolls. It is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Pinot Gris Saison Vineyards 2024
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaThe Saison effect reflects a heightened intensity that is balanced by a refined delicacy. The enduring collaboration between Unsworth and nearby Saison Vineyard now spans fifteen years, with both achieving notable maturity. The single vineyard bottling is predominantly fermented in stainless steel, with approximately 10% use of neutral French oak. The resulting style is something I describe as coastal electric, pitching a silky texture, subtle lees influence, a vibrant mineral core, and a fresh mid-palate that evokes saline washed stones. This wine pairs well with shellfish dishes, reflecting the principle that what grows together goes together. Did I mention its 10.4 % alcohol level?Prices:| BC | $30.90 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Pinot Gris 2024
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaUnsworth winemaker Dan Wright is known for his style, mainly pure and precise, and this pinot gris is a fine example. Pinot gris is the most widely planted white grape on Vancouver Island. It is all grown over a mix of marine silts and loams. The region was spared the great freeze of 2024 that devastated the Okanagan Valley crop. In the glass, it has a subtle yet expressive nose of pear, citrus, and minerals. The palate is marked by a lean, crisp character, offering crunchy textures and a distinctive sea air finish, a nod to the Island's coastal influence. This fresh profile makes it an ideal companion for oysters.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Lightning Rock Cross Border Collection Pinot Gris Airfield Estate Vineyard 2024
Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesDefinitely one of the better Washington wines bottled in BC in 2024. This Airfield Estate Vineyard, situated in the Yakima Valley AVA, clocks in at a super fresh 12% with zero sugar. It opens with pear and quince, flecks of apricot, and even some wet stone. The palate has a light, creamy lees character that does not impede the fruit. The finish is long and refreshing with a final desert scrub note poking through for interest. The fermentation occurred naturally with indigenous yeasts in a mix of concrete eggs (40%) and neutral oak puncheons (60%).Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Tantalus Pinot Gris Stoneridge Vineyard Oregon 2024
Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThe 2024 freeze presents Tantalus with a chance to look elsewhere for fruit, hence the appearance of an Oregon Pinot Gris, the first ever Gris bottled at the property. It comes from the organic Stoneridge Vineyard in Willamette's Ribbon Ridge, planted in 1985. It was fermented in an assortment of containers, older barriques, puncheons, and stainless steel tanks. The nose has an attractive scent of pear, lemon, and grapefruit pith with a nice mineral underside and a fresh finish. Love the balance here. Seafood, anyone? Stock up.Prices:| BC | $20.87 | 750ml |
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16 September 2025
91PTS
Evolve Grenache 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThere's nothing like true, authentic grenache, and Evolve winemaker Lynzee Schatz has knocked it out of the park with this first release, clearly demonstrating the Okanagan Valley's diversification at a dizzying pace. The colour is perfectly mid to light red, and the nose is awash in vibrant red fruit, including raspberries, cranberries, and cherries that spill onto the palate. It is simply fun to drink, especially with a slight chill.Prices:| BC | $45.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Chronos Petit Verdot 2021
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Chronos PV is grown on the home vineyard in Osoyoos, where production in 2021 was only 2.93 tons per acre. After a classic open top fermentation, the destemmed grapes undergo an 18 month ageing process in American and French oak barrels. After repeated tastings, it was decided to isolate this year's petit verdot and make a standalone single bottling. It is a blockbuster red with rich, dark black and blue fruit peppered with smoke. The palate is equally sturdy and long, but the smoke lingers among the black fruit through the finish.Prices:| BC | $58.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Moon Curser Touriga Nacional 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA consistent star at Moon Curser, except for last year's smoky edition, the 2022 is back on track in a big way. An opaque purple colour introduces you to a nose full of floral aromatics, including licorice and savoury black fruit. Power and concentration are the name of the game here, but with that not so surprising Okanagan acidity that keeps it fresh. As rich as the tannins are, the fruit is richer. Now you know why this grape is so revered in northern Portugal. It is a giant of wine, and I suspect it will live long and prosper in the bottle.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Moon Curser Carmenere 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCarmenere may be a rarity in the Okanagan (0.1% of total plantings), but this label continues to show promising results, especially on warm sites like the Osoyoos East Bench, the source of this wine. The 2022 was highly regarded at the 2025 WineAlign National Wine Awards, as it continues to pitch juicy, crunchy fruit mixed with some of the earthy, peppery, green desert scrub notes we see in Chilean examples. The tannins are smooth but dry, suggesting this is best with food. It is ready to drink.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Albamar Edicion Especial NAI Mencía 2020
Ribeira Sacra, Galicia, SpainAlbamar NAI is a Mencía red made by winemaker Xurxo Alba to honour his mother, whom they refer to as the best cook of Rías Baixas. Nai Albamar originates from the warm vineyards of Ribeira Sacra and undergoes a six month maturation in French oak barrels before being bottled. The wine is a deep, rich red-purple colour. On the nose, it has a refreshing ripe black fruit with a hint of dried herbs. On the palate, the texture is soft and creamy, with a savoury mix of red fruit compote and perfect acidity. Mencía is always a rich red, but its supple nature makes it easy to enjoy. Roasted chicken would be an excellent match here, or later in the fall, a rustic stew would be equally enjoyable.Prices:| BC | $42.99 | 750ml |
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15 September 2025
88PTS
Santa Carolina 150 Anninversary 2022
Valle del Cachapoal, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe grapes in this 150th anniversary wine, including petite syrah, malbec, and carmenère, are sourced from Cachapoal Valley, which boasts a unique combination of Andes Mountains' cool climate and alluvial soils that provide elegance and structure. Additionally, Maule Valley, one of the country's oldest wine producing regions, offers a Mediterranean climate. Hand harvested and then bunch and berry selected, it is fermented in stainless steel and aged in oak for 12 months. After bottling, it spends another six months at the winery. Expect a classic wild herb, boldo nose with spicy plummy fruit and a whiff of candle wax, cigar, and more grilled wild herbs in the finish. The texture is perfectly managed with smooth sides and a persistent finish. Roast beef is the ticket here.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Moon Curser Dead of the Night 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMoon Curser flagship Dead of the Night is nothing if not a hefty red. But unlike many pretenders, this wine has a touch of finesse to keep it on track in the glass and in your mouth. The blend is essentially the top selected syrah and tannat blocks from the East Osoyoos Bench. It's always a dense, opaque black/red colour with a savoury licorice nose that smells like a warm afternoon in the south Okanagan. The oak regime is a mix of 225 litre French oak barriques, mixed with Hungarian oak (35% new), as well as some neutral oak barrels. Despite the alcohol and the warm site, the wine is pleasantly juicy, all of which offset its powerful black fruit, sprinkled with raspberry, pomegranate, and cedar. There is tannin to be sure, but the balance will see through a decade with ease. If you like giant reds, this one is for you. The winery suggests a hearty beef stew, mushroom bourguignon, or dark chocolate chilli and cherry brownies.Prices:| BC | $46.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Dirty Laundry Vineyard Bordello 2020
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2020 vintage has been widely lauded in BC, so it's nice to see a wine from that year still in the marketplace. Winemaker Mason Spink is an easy going guy who makes wine to drink, and the 2020 Bordello is a good example, albeit from a superior vintage. The nose is awash in spice, black currant, and cocoa that all spill onto the palate. The texture is lightly sticky, but it's barely noticeable. More figgy, cedar, earthy black fruit takes you through a warm, spicy finish. Generous but not cloying or overpowering, this is a terrific wine to drink all winter with richer meats and casseroles. The blend is 68% petit verdot, 22% cabernet sauvignon, and 10% merlot.Prices:| BC | $44.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Lightfoot and Wolfville Fauna Red 2022
Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, CanadaFauna is a new line of red wines from Nova Scotia's Lightfoot and Wolfville focusing on the hybrid grapes that have proven well suited to their maritime climate. For Fauna (vs Flora, the white in the series), this blends Léon Millot, Petite Pearl, and Marquette from local growers, partially carbonically fermented, and all rested briefly in stainless. Juicy plum, dusky dark raspberry is woven with a foxy herbaceousness that ends on tart cassis. The palate is cushy soft, and tannins are near negligible, though guide this to a maritime tart / saline end. Enjoy with a light chill and simple sausages / charcuterie.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Black Sage Vineyard GSM 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2022 opens with lifted spicy black fruits and vanilla. The palate is equally rich and tangy with more lifted black fruit that disappears into a soft, long finish. The wine is aged 14-16 months in a mix of French and American oak. This bold red is perfect for all winter, paired with sweet and spicy ribs, a meaty, wood fired pizza, or lamb chops.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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12 September 2025
91PTS
Corcelettes Merlot 2021
Keremeos, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMedium-deep purple-ruby in the glass, this rich merlot offers a mix of red and black fruit, lifted by floral and herbal notes. Oak spices weave through the nose with a subtle smoky undertone - present but never overbearing. On the palate, ripe dark fruit takes centre stage before giving way to a dark chocolate finish, leaving an exuberant, hedonistic impression. Tasted blind at the NWACs 2025.Prices:| BC | $32.90 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tightrope Winery Merlot Fleet Road Vineyard 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMy first look at the 2022 merlot, made sustainably, with grapes grown at the Fleet Road and Marmot vineyards within the Tightrope Estate on the Naramata Bench. The nose is more plummy, and the acid is more prominent in this issue. Fresh and vibrant, it highlights the peppery notes on the savoury tobacco, earthy, somewhat dry finish. Impressive styling but suited more to the discerning merlot drinker. The fruit is hand harvested over two days and placed into half-ton fermenters for a five day cold soak and 21 days on skins, followed by one year in 50% new French oak.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Privato Vineyard and Winery Merlot 2021
British Columbia, CanadaThis single vineyard merlot originates from the Black Sage Hills in Oliver. Post-ferment, it spends 18 months maturing in French and American oak, followed by an additional 12 months in bottle. The result is a lean profile of peppery, red, raw cherry. Skinny and savoury, this wine is best served with high fat dishes to balance its acidity and absorb the fat at the same time. Slow roasted pork or caramelized roasted root vegetables would be a solid match.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Riverview Cellars Merlot 2021
Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaThis NOTL Merlot was aged in French and American wood over 2 years. Boysenberry, raspberry is seasoned with wet branchiness, and light wood spice. Tannins are finely sticky and acidity is tart, all welcoming partnering with rustic stews.Prices:| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
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11 September 2025
87PTS
Bodegas Beronia Viura 2024
Rioja Alta, Rioja, SpainAt $14 in Ontario, Bodegas Beronia Viura is a dry white that’s ideal for parties. Made mostly from viura with some garnacha blanco and tempranillo blanco, it has fresh citrus, pear, and tropical notes. Straightforward and food friendly, it pairs well as an aperitif or with pasta, rice dishes, salads, fish, and white meats. Ready to drink.Prices:| ON | $13.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Menade Rueda Verdejo Ecologico 2022
Rueda, Castilla-Leon, SpainThe Menade nose opens with a balanced combination of white fruit that mix with herbaceous and dried scrub. On the palate, it's vibrant and fresh, pitching ripe citrus and lime complemented by hints of sweet mango. It's moderately rich without becoming cloying. In fact, the finish comes with a touch of water to give it a juicy drink-me style. Shellfish, anyone? Menade is an organic verdejo grown without sulphur or copper sulphate treatments. Wild fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks of varying sizes, tailored to the yield from each vineyard block.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Tenute Musone Via Condotto Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2023
Marche, ItalyIdentical to last year, and given that the price didn't go up, it is an even better value. Hunt this down. Verdicchio is a very flexible grape that can travel down different paths: dry, fresh and mineral; spicy, rich, and full-bodied; and the sweet passito style. I am partial to the fresh, dry style found in this Colognola Via Condotto Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi. The nose is an aromatic affair reminiscent of fresh cut white and yellow flowers, while a line of acidity and freshness runs the length of the wine. Orchard fruit and figs dusted with almonds round out the palate. Another versatile gastronomic wine for West Coast seafood dishes that sells for a bargain price of $22. Real wine.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Allegrini Soave Oasi San Giacomo 2023
Verona, Veneto, ItalyThe Allegrini Soave is listed at Earl's Restaurant, and private wine shops, and it's an oasis of sorts for wine drinkers. Graceful, stylish, and seamless, it brings freshness and wild flowers to the party. On the palate, there is a persistent minerality poking through the lemon and pink grapefruit, keeping it refreshed and focused. It's a versatile food wine that we enjoyed with salmon rolls, calamari, and a margherita pizza. If you were in Lake Garda, you might expect a frog's leg pairing.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Rebil Viognier 2021
Cawston, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Rebil (Liber spelled backward) is a barrel aged Viognier grown on the west facing banks of the Similkameen River. It is the perfect exposition for this variety, allowing it to fully ripen under a gentle daytime sun on a site that cools down early in the evening thanks to the river. It spends six months in neutral oak for expansion, leaving the nose a fresh tangerine affair with a whiff of vanilla. The palate is equally fresh with honeysuckle, melon, apricot, and almond. The winery likes this wine with creamy lemon sage whitefish, or panko-crusted cauliflower. Me too.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Wild Island Auxerrois 2023
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaOnly a few barrels of Auxerrois are made each year. Still, this wild fermented white is a charming wine, offering ripe melon and yellow fruit splashed with lemon, creating a perfect level of acidity that supports but does not overpower. It is an ideal wine for spaghetti vongole or a Margherita pizza, and the best part? It's ready to drink now. The Unsworth Auxerrois vines were planted in the early 1990s at the Zanatta Vineyard in the Cowichan Valley.Prices:| BC | $28.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Santadi Villa Solais Vermentino di Sardegna 2024
Sardinia, ItalyThe Villa Solais is vermentino, as demonstrated by its straw yellow colour with some green hues at the edge. The nose and attack are super fresh with strong mineral and citrus, and bright acidity throughout. The palate is well balanced and a mixture of fruit and minerality craves creamy cheeses or seafood pasta dishes. Ready to drink all summer on the patio. Sushi, anybody?Prices:| BC | $26.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $21.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Full Flap Albarín Blanco 2024
Castilla-Leon, SpainThe renewed cultivation of the Albarín grape in Spain has revived a centuries-old tradition and resulted in exceptional wines like this Full Flap Albarín. It is a variety likely unfamiliar to most wine enthusiasts, as few have probably encountered it before. Albarín descends from Savagnin, an aromatic French white grape native to the Jura region. It is grown on calcareous and clay soils influenced by cool Atlantic Ocean breezes. Fresh, lively, and distinctive, it should not be confused with Albariño. As far as I am aware, Vilano wines are not distributed in British Columbia, but they deserve broader availability. This bottle is DO León, with an electric green-yellow colour. The nose is more tropical, with big citrus marked by desert scrub dried herbs. While it opens with a fresh sweetness, its bitter notes in the finish complete a complex picture. Ready to drink and well worth seeking out in Spain.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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10 September 2025
89PTS
Cusumano Nero d'Avola 2023
Sicily, ItalyAs temperatures begin to drop, Sicilian Nero d'Avola offers an ideal transition from white to red wines. The Cusumano label has been in the market for years, and its wines have seen significant improvement. The family cultivates over 1000 acres of vineyards, planted to 5000 vines per hectare. The high density helps control yields, resulting in enhanced wine quality. The fruit is aged for five months on its lees without oak influence. The latest release is approachable, displaying ripe, peppery fruit, black raspberry, and a savoury umami finish. It pairs excellently with pasta, but would also complement grilled ribs. The price is a bonus.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $20.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $19.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $10.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Belle Colle Langhe Nebbiolo 2023
Piedmont, ItalyDOC Langhe Nebbiolo is a stepping stone to the more substantial, prosperous, and intense versions of nebbiolo, such as Barolo. But there is Langhe Nebbiolo, and then there is Langhe Nebbiolo. Belle Colle stands out among its peers, offering Barolo-like qualities with aromas of violet, rose, and ripe black cherry. Soft, fresh, and dry on the palate, it features plum and raspberry, along with light tannins that are not overly dry. This approachable red from a tough year in Piemonte is enjoyable now and worth a closer look. Give it all the air you want and serve it at your summer barbecues when beef is on the menu.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Frank Cornelissen Munjebel Terre Siciliane Rosso 2021
Etna, Sicily, ItalyThe 20th vintage of the Munjebel Rosso is made from nerello mascalese grown on a series of vineyards bearing 50 year old vines offering classic, traditional fruit with rich antioxidants and perfect ripeness. The ultimate style is the vision of winemaker Frank Corneillson to produce a traditional, balanced and rich Northern Valley Etna red. It is a rich and fragrant red made in the natural style with a fresher, lighter than expected structure but with an earthy, spicy undertow that persists long into the finish. The grapes are destemmed and lightly crushed. The ferment starts in the vineyard with a pied de cuve using only indigenous yeasts, and skin contact for about 50 days. It is aged in neutral epoxy tanks, ranging from 2500 litres to 7000 litres, for approximately 12 months.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Marcarini Ciabot Camerano Barbera D'Alba 2022
La Morra, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyBarbera d'Alba Ciabot Camerano comes from some of the winery's sunniest vineyards. Barbera is a rustic and humble native variety of southwestern Piedmont that is surprisingly one of the most planted grapes in Italy. It opens with aromatic licorice and mushrooms along with juicy red fruits and a long, dry, full-bodied finish. Think braised beef, game, and aged cheeses. At Marcarini, Barbera is treated with respect, grown at lower yields, and then fermented traditionally in concrete and stainless steel. It is aged in older Slavonian oak for 9 months as well as stainless steel, plus two months in bottle before release. Good value.Prices:| BC | $30.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Luigi Einaudi Dogliani 2023
Dogliani, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyDogliani is a Piemontese DOC based on dolcetto, a slightly more rustic red wine than its neighbouring nebbiolo. The colour in '23 is medium dark. The nose is a mix of spice, leather, ripe black cherries, and a touch of prune and balsamic. The palate is slightly chunky, although the tannins are pretty much non-existent, despite its normal dry, Italian finish. Ready to drink, but it's best paired with grilled sausages or a meaty pasta dish.Prices:| BC | $28.50 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Pietradolce Etna Rosso 2023
Etna, Sicily, ItalyThis nerello mascalese is grown at 800m on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. Perfumed boysenberry, iris, scrubby rosemary and thyme are woven through this buzzy, humming, volcanic red, scented with pink peppercorn, and hugged with finely sticky tannins through a lingering kirsch kissed finish. Such a lovely wine of place, with so much going on gracefully.Prices:| CDN Average | $40.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stemmari Nero d'Avola 2022
Sicily, ItalyThe nero d'avola grape is an important native grape, found initially in Siracusa and now widely cultivated throughout the island of Sicily. In the case of Stemmari, Sambuca di Sicilia, in the province of Agrigento, is home to this highly structured nero d'avola. Grown in clay, it thrives best when it's not excessively dry. Its deep ruby/black colour promises a wild currant nose and a rich palate, featuring black cherry with a pomegranate seed finish. The winery suggests pairing it with risotto, first courses of meat or lamb, and ideally with traditional Sicilian dishes, such as Spaghetti alla Norma, which features eggplant and smoked ricotta cheese. It is an excellent mid-week red.Prices:| BC | $21.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $16.99 | 750ml |
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93PTS
G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe 2021
Barolo, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalySurprisingly, given their access to great terroir, this estate was only founded in 1972 by Aldo, who just 4 years earlier, age 15, took over his family's vines. Named after his father Giuseppe Domenico who planted most of the family’s vines, the property sits at one of the highest points in Piedmont, so the grapes ripen later than anywhere else in the region. Today the estate comprises 150 acres. Albe is a tribute the tradition of the appellation, blending higher elevation vineyards from where, every day, you view the beautiful sunrise (Albe in Italian). This was fermented over 30 days before aging 26 months in large Slavonian casks. Fragrant cherry, perfumed raspberry, crushed florals lure and lead to a finely structured Barolo, kissed with blood orange, black tea, cracked pink pepper, and savoury ferrous notes on the juicy palate. Long, chiselled and grippy tannins take this to a lingering, mineral finish. Superb now in youth, but will easily take to cellaring.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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09 September 2025
90PTS
Moon Curser Syrah 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2022 vintage is a significant improvement over the smoky 2021 and is already proving to be a winner. Expect a rich floral aroma that leads to a ripe, almost sweet burst of black fruit accompanied by dense, sweet tannins. This wine is still young and will likely continue to improve in the bottle until 2027. For the best experience now, pair it with lamb or pulled pork.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| BC | $79.99 | 1500ml |
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93PTS
Tightrope Winery Syrah 2022
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2022 95/5 syrah/viognier was co-fermented and aged for one year in 100 percent French oak, 50% of which was new. The fruit comes from a west-facing, steep slope on the Upper Naramata Bench. It is the best we have seen from Tightrope and among the best we have tasted in B.C. Despite all the new French oak, it appears to have been easily absorbed by this elegant, flavourful, peppery edition that is all Northern Rhone in style. Violet florals and sweet plum and desert brush notes add complexity to the wine from front to back. The finish is all silk and class. Well done.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Lightning Rock Cross Border Collection Carbo Syrah King Organics Vineyard 2024
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesAt only 12 percent, this is a fun, juicy, vibrant, light coloured syrah with some grassy, meaty notes on the nose. The palate is soft, with a mix of ripe red and black berry fruit flavours, savoury fresh-cut herbs, and black pepper, complemented by velvety tannins in the finish. It was all hand-harvested on King Organics Vineyard, grown on the warm, well-drained soils of the Wahluke Slope. Korean BBQ short ribs are the perfect match for smashburgers, where crispy beef and melted cheese complement the Syrah's bright fruit. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $25.00 | 750ml |
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08 September 2025
89PTS
Moon Curser Tempranillo 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA rare tempranillo is grown on a pair of sandy, siliceous, and granite sites on the East Bench's southwest facing slope. It opens with a medium dark indigo tint. The attack is juicy, with plenty of savoury black cherry, and bright acidity that runs through the finish. It is a touch on the rustic side, but otherwise pleasant drinking, and indeed a wine you can enjoy with grilled lamb or sausages. Drink or hold, there's no rush.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
V Vilano Ribera del Duero 2022
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainPouring an inky purple hue, this powerful Ribera del Duero opens with black plum and dark cherries layered with savoury black olive, nutmeg, and earthy warm soil. Aged 24 months in French oak barrels, it is firmly structured, carrying rich, lush fruit on the palate. Tannins and oak are still prominent and will benefit from additional time to integrate, allowing the wine’s full complexity to unfurl.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Pannell Koomilya 2019
McLaren Vale, South Australia, AustraliaKoomilya was Stephen and Fiona Pannell's first vineyard, purchasing the 35-hectare McLaren Vale property in 2012, and has been organically farmed ever since. This blend of tempranillo and touriga nacional was native cofermented and pressed after 15 days on skins, settled in tank and then moved to French vats for MLF and maturation. Perfumed blackberries, fragrant black plums, and violets course through this concentrated, muscular wine, lofted by an easy ferrous / stony acidity, and wrapped with sticky tannins. The finish lingers with crushed spices and flake salts. A packed wine, tasting lovely now (think herb grilled lamb) and with time ahead.Prices:| BC | $70.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Full Flap Red Blend by Vilano 2023
SpainI love how this wine fills the palate and expresses the blend of tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot. The floral violet nose draws you into a fresh, mostly red-fruited wine with plums, cranberries, and black currants. The tannis are medium-weight and well managed, and the finish is smooth and long, with some cedar notes. The perfect barbecue wine. Currently unavailable in Canada, but it sells in Spain for approximately $13 to $15.Prices:| BC | $18.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
V Vilano Ribera del Duero 2022
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainThis Ribera del Duero presents with an intensely opaque purple hue, characteristic of its Denomination of Origin. The bouquet is dominated by dark fruits, complemented by lighter plum and cherry, all enveloped in savoury, earthy undertones. Maturation for two years in French oak barrels imparts additional structure to this elegant red wine, indicating strong ageing potential well into the next decade. While pairing with grilled lamb chops or shoulder would be suitable at present, allowing the wine further time to develop will enable it to express its complexity fully.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Bodegas Vilano La Baraja 2021
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainA giant of tempranillo that I can only surmise has been somewhat contained by the addition of cabernet sauvignon (15%) and merlot (10%) to the mix. The vineyard's old vines, grown over limestone, face north, providing some of the freshness that balances this rich red. The nose is full of big, savoury, earthy notes mixed with black fruit. On the palate, it spreads far and wide, offering more black currant, blackberry flecked with black pepper, tobacco, licorice, and balsamic, along with classic oak tones. There is no rush to drink this wine, which should comfortably age for a decade. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $75.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $65.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bodegas Vilano Terra Incognito Ribera del Duero 2021
Ribera del Duero, Castilla-Leon, SpainFrom 100ish year old vines, this was fermented over 10 days at warm temperatures, followed by 2 weeks' maceration, and then 22 months in French barrels before bottling, and another year's rest there before release. As expected, ripe and dense, with sweet, port-like fruit reflecting the picking decisions, and ample sticky tannins that finish bitter, revealing the assertive winemaking. Heady kirsch, black plum jam, allspice, dried florals, and black licorice fill the thicker palate, finishing with warmth, bitter espresso, and baking spice. Old school, full throttle RdD that drinks more like a port wine than a table wine.Prices:| EU | $33.00 | 750ml |
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05 September 2025
89PTS
Tedeschi Capitel Tenda Soave Classico 2022
Soave, Verona, Veneto, ItalyAt Tedeschi, the garganega comes from 35 year old vines grown in the commune of Monteforte d'Alpone, the oldest area of Soave. It opens with earthy honey and elderflower. On the palate, crisp lemon, pear, light lees, apricot, and nervy acidity dominate. Lean but concentrated, it finished clean with a mix of almonds and starfruit. A perfect white for West Coast seafood.Prices:| BC | $24.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tedeschi Gary 2023
Veneto, ItalyGary is a blend of 84% garganega, 10% chardonnay, and 6% riesling (Renano). It features a stunning label that reflects the family's modern sensibilities while also honouring the rich history of Valpolicella. The grapes are hand picked and undergo a brief maceration process before aging in the bottle for eight months. It is bottled with a screw cap, which suggests that it will be particularly well received in Canada. At first glance, the blend may seem unconventional, but the Garganega offers a connection to its origins. The wine is characterized by refreshing and vibrant qualities that are hard to resist. On the nose, it presents a delightful blend of florals and yellow fruit, leading to a fresh palate. The flavours of citrus, particularly lemon and lime, along with hints of wet stone make it an excellent choice to pair with seafood, including shellfish, sushi, and sashimi. Gary is a welcome addition to the strong lineup of Tedeschi wines, which now includes both red and white varieties.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Tedeschi Marne 180 Amarone della Valpolicella 2019
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyWhen I taste Marne 2019, I am reminded that Amarone has never been a wine for the casual sipper. This type of wine can overwhelm the senses in youth, and as it matures, it throws a veil of complexity that is equally overwhelming for some. 2019 is best described at this point as a gastronomic wine, complex enough to take on a range of rich dishes. The nose is a blend of earthy and garrigue spices. On the palate, warm 16.5% black cherry covers the palate, adding a modicum of ripeness to the mix, at least as ripe as it gets for the biggest, driest Italian reds. There is less bitterness and more drinkability, although there is no rush to drink this wine. There is plenty of time to allow it to become increasingly more intriguing and complex. Since 2015, this label has been named Marne 180, referencing the soil type, while the 180 refers to the layout of the vines and their 180 degree view of the countryside.Prices:| BC | $59.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $55.95 | 750ml |
| MB | $60.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $45.50 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Tedeschi Maternigo Valpolicella Superiore 2020
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyMaternigo is a full on Tedeschi red, meaning it has muscle and can flex at the right time, when required. Otherwise, it has a soft opening with ripe black cherries, chocolate, and vanilla, but all with a cooling structure with bright acidity to keep it all in balance. The complexed palate shows figs, almonds, and a savoury olive note. Impressive for any straight up Valpolicella, the blend is composed of 40% corvina, 30% corvinone, and 30% rondinella, all grown organically at 400m at Impervio Vineyard. We enjoyed it with duck, but a medium rare steak or mature cheese after dinner is a great choice.Prices:| BC | $39.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $38.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $39.99 | 750ml |
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96PTS
Tedeschi La Fabriseria Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva 2016
Veneto, ItalyLa Fabriseria is a rare Tedeschi label, produced in limited quantities and only during select vintages. Ten vintages have been released since 1983. The grapes used are 40% Corvina, 40% Corvinone, 15% Rondinella, and 5% Oseleta, which are hand selected from the La Fabriseria vineyard located between Fumane and Sant'Ambrogio on the hillsides of Valpolicella Classica. After harvest, the grapes are dried for four months in a humidity controlled environment. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel, followed by 48 months of aging in Slavonian oak barrels, and then an additional year in the bottle before release. At 17% alcohol, the wine presents tar, balsamic, black cherries, tobacco, and minerals, with additional complexity from subtle meaty notes. In Valpolicella, it is commonly served with dishes such as game, braised meats, and mature cheeses.Prices:| BC | $400.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $378.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
Tedeschi Amarone della Valpolicella Capitel Monte Olmi 2017
Pedemonte Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, ItalyMonte Olmi is a 2.5 hectare vineyard in Pedemonte di Valpolicella, at the heart of Valpolicella Classico. Its terraced layout aids drainage, and the clay soil retains moisture. Farmed as a single vineyard since the early 1960s, grapes are dried for 48 months, then bottled and aged for another year. The blend consists of 30% corvina, 30% corvinone, 30% rondinella, and 10% traditional varieties, including molinara, rossignola, oseleta, negrara, dindarella, croatina, and forselina. In the glass, the flavours are intense yet harmonious, with ripe fruit exhibiting refined sweetness. The wine is fresh, subtly bright, textured, and vibrant. It is a wine capable of ageing gracefully for decades or more. First class from the master.Prices:| BC | $135.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $125.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $88.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $92.00 | 750ml |
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04 September 2025
90PTS
Unsworth Vineyards Gamay Noir 2023
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, CanadaA classic example of a pure, Vancouver Island wine, in this case a rare Gamay Noir sighting full of red fruit, life, and spice. It is stainless steel fermented for a short 6 months in neutral French oak. The nose is a very enticing affair of red and black Bing cherries with a savoury forest floor touch. Best served slightly chilled, its acidity and spice make it a versatile accompaniment to a wide range of foods. This Gamay Noir hails from Mildenstein Vineyard in Glenora, and Blue Grouse Vineyard in Cowichan Station.Prices:| BC | $36.90 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Domaine Artema Gamay Village 2023
CanadaPale ruby in colour, this gamay was fermented in stainless steel with 85% destemmed fruit and 15% whole clusters, then aged for 6 months in a mix of neutral French oak (81%) and stainless steel (19%). The nose shows smoky tones and a hint of green herbs, layered over baked cherry and subtle dried lavender. The palate is lean, driven by tart acidity, with a modest finish that leaves a touch of astringency.Prices:| BC | $34.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Artema Gamay Cru 2022
CanadaFrom three blocks of the Artema Vineyard, this gamay underwent a 12 day whole berry fermentation in stainless steel before completing fermentation in tank, then aged with 20% new French oak. In the glass, it shows a very pale ruby-garnet with an amber rim, a bit mature in appearance for a 2022. The nose follows suit, with slightly lifted, evolved notes of dried cranberry and red apple skin layered with potpourri and subtle toasted spice. Light-bodied on the palate, tangy acidity lifts the fruit and keeps the profile lively. Best served chilled to enhance the freshness.Prices:| BC | $54.90 | 750ml |
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03 September 2025
87PTS
Aveleda Fonte Vinho Verde 2024
Vinho Verde, Northern Portugal, PortugalA classic Vinho Verde is an excellent choice for a warm summer day or simply prepared seafood. Its pale yellow-green hue and refreshing bouquet pull your nose into the glass. Notable aromas include lemon, freshly picked green herbs, and subtle notes of baked bread, along with a light effervescence. The Guedes family, proprietors of Quinta da Aveleda, has maintained a tradition of viticulture for five generations, dating back to the 1870s.Prices:| BC | $14.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $12.39 | 750ml |
| QC | $11.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Le Vieux Pin Ava Washington Edition 2024
Horse Heaven Hills, Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesFor the 2024 / Replacement Wine Ava, LVP sourced fruit from Washington State's Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Roussanne (54%) and Viognier was primarily fermented in stainless (73%), with the remainder in used French oak where it spent 5 months with weekly bâtonnage. Perfumed cold cream beds apricot blossom, ripe pear, mandarin, and jasmine, drawn out along a subtly waxy frame, finishing in fragrant spices and bitter orange pith. An elegant and sophisticated Ava.Prices:| BC | $36.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
JoieFarm A Noble Blend Pacific Northwest Edition 2024
Canada - USA, CanadaThe 2024 CIBC / Pacific Northwest Edition replacement of A Noble Blend sourced fruit from Washington State to complement Summerland and Naramata fruit, in a cross-border blend, processed at their Naramata winery. A blend of primarily gewürztraminer, riesling (co-fermented in stainless) with tips of native fermented and skin contact ehrenfelser and oraniensteiner to add layers and diversity. Amply perfumed, with rosewater, gooseberry, lush white peach, lime pulp and jasmine woven across the palate, with a bump of RS to sweeten the deal, and cool acidity to draw this through the pink peppercorn and bitter orange finish. Noble Blend fans will not be disappointed in this CIBC example.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Moon Curser Broad Daylight 2024
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaBroad Daylight is a new, dangerous and delicious label from Moon Curser. Dangerous because it could have ended up as a kitchen sink wine, but delicious because it didn't. It is a vibrant white blend comprising 69% pinot gris, 14% muscat, 11% viognier, and 6% arneis. The fruit is alive, an orchestra of apricot, honeydew, citrus, and a swath of minerality and wet stone in the finish. A refreshing white wine you can serve before or during dinner.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Otter Trail Winery Cuvée Blanc 2022
CanadaThe cuvée is a 77/10/8/5 blend of gewürztraminer, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and sémillon. The effect is a leesy, fruit salad white wth creamy textures and barely enough acidity to keep it fresh. Earlier picking and more precision winemaking would help moving forward. Best now with Thai or spicy Chinese dishes.Prices:Read Full Note
87PTS
K - Little Vintners My White 2021
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt has been a while since I have seen this label. It has an improved opening with a distinct Alsace lilt that signals a blend of gewurztraminer and pinot gris. Floral, with a mix of candied orchard fruit, this light summer white is a perfect poolside wine. Chill and serve with gusto, accompanied by a piece of fresh cheese or a spicy sushi roll.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Noble Ridge Vilicus Pinot Gris Viognier 2024
Washington, United StatesThese grapes were harvested and pressed in Washington according to the established protocols of Noble Ridge Director of Winemaking Benoit Gauthier. The must was stabilized and promptly delivered to the Noble Ridge facility. This blend of Pinot Gris and Viognier offers a soft, accessible off-dry profile with florals and orchard fruits, including peach, honeysuckle, and citrus. For best enjoyment, serve well- hilled alongside spicy dishes such as short ribs or tuna roll.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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02 September 2025
91PTS
Chronos Malbec 2020
British Columbia, CanadaThe Chronos Malbec 2020 is a small batch production (eight barrels) made by winemaker Lyndsey Schatz. It's a bold, rich red, pitching opaque black fruit with surprisingly light violets, blueberries, and meaty notes (yes, almost like Syrah) that finish with dry peppery hints. It is an excellent year that suggests it needs more time to reveal itself. Let's hope the fruit holds out and the alcohol dissipates. Braised pork belly, anyone?Prices:| BC | $58.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Moon Curser Malbec 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe '22 Moon Curser Malbec charmed the judges at the National Wine Awards, with perfectly ripe, sweet black fruit and spicy, juicy black fruit that runs long into soft, dense, fine grained tannins. A little bit of Cahors in the south Okanagan should impress even the harshest critics of BC reds.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Burrowing Owl Malbec 2021
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCrafted entirely from Osoyoos fruit in 2021, this wine was aged for 16 months in a combination of French, American, and Hungarian oak, with 20% of the barrels being new. This approach highlights the wine's sense of origin, offering both red and black fruit complemented by earthy, peppery, and smoky nuances, along with firm, ripe tannins. The result is an appealing, savoury southern red you can drink or hold.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Finca La Linda Old Vines Malbec 2021
Maipú, Northern Region, Mendoza, ArgentinaI first saw this well kept vineyard twenty years ago, unaware of its name or owner, but impressed by its altitude and location at 950m in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, on the Andes Ridge. The 50-60 year old vines produce fruit aged in older barrels, resulting in a soft, polished wine with blackberry, cherry, and baking spice. It pairs well with barbecued meats, burgers, beef tacos, or Portobello mushroom burgers. It's a rare value in an ever pricy marketplace. This is back up the truck value.Prices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $19.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $18.95 | 750ml |
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