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Selections $25 & under ( *10% Off 12 bottles )
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Bodegas Borsao
2008 Tres Picos
Campo de Borja Spain
The flagship of this portfolio is the perennially outstanding Tres Picos. The 2008 Tres Picos is 100% Garnacha old vines in which 50% was aged in tank and 50% in French oak for 10 months. It gives up a compelling nose of black cherry fruit that jumps from the glass along with earth and mineral notes. Plush on the palate bordering on voluptuous, this pleasure-bent, full-flavored effort will drink well for another 3-4 years although few will be able to resist its charms for that long. Bodegas Borsao has long been known for high quality value-priced wines and the current releases are no exception. Jay Miller.
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Ridge
2007 Lytton Springs Red Blend
Sonoma County
The 2007 Lytton Springs Proprietary Red (71% Zinfandel, 22% Petite Sirah, and 7% Carignan; 14.4% alcohol) exhibits a similar dark ruby/purple hue as well as more black fruits and spice in the impressive aromatics. It is a fuller-bodied, richer wine with beautiful texture, purity, and length. Enjoy it over the next 7-10 years.
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Molly Dooker
2008 The Boxer Shiraz
South Australia
Bright and jazzy, offering an effusive mouthful of cherry, pomegranate and spice flavors that are as aromatic as they are long and vivid. This has density without great weight, and the finish keeps on going. Drink now through 2015.
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Luigi Righetti
2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico
Capitel de' Roari
Sweet berry and jam on the nose. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and very pretty ripe fruit. Offers fine tannins and a long finish. So delicious now. Why wait? Readily available and well-priced. Drink now through 2013.
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Chappellet
2007 Mountain Cuvee
Napa Valley
Chappellet winery always seems to over-deliver on quality for the price, thanks in large part to the estate's 100 acres of vines on Pritchard Hill, high above Napa Valley. The 2007 is a blend of 51 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 46 percent Merlot, with a dash of Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The wine is rich and seamlessly mouth-filling yet complex and beautifully structured. It's ready to drink in the short term-it brought out the best in the beef-but will do fine in the cellar for a few years.
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Decoy
2009 Sauvignon Blanc
Napa Valley
Crisp and refreshing, offering a well-balanced blend of mouthwatering, citrusy lemon-lime flavors, with touches of flowers and freshly cut grass, followed by a honeydew melon note on the finish. Drink now.
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Loosen Bros.
2008 Dr. L Riesling
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer
Sleek and tangy, showing apricot, lime and mango flavors matched to a lively structure. There's good harmony and persistence through the finish. Drink now through 2018.
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Brancott B
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough New Zealand
Dramatic, aromatic and elegantly proportioned, with vivid grapefruit, green apple, passion fruit and vaguely piney aromas and flavors competing for attention on a sleek frame that lets the finish reverberate nicely. Drink now. Only 500 cases imported.
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Two Hands
2008 Angels Share Shiraz
Barossa Valley
Deep ruby. Ripe, smoky aromas of blackberry and cherry pie, with complicating notes of licorice and dark chocolate. Broad and jammy, offering sweet dark berry flavors and a slow-building cocoa quality. Finishes supple and sweet, with a repeating licorice note and zesty mineral and spice qualities.
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La Posta
2008 Cocina Blend
Mendoza Argentina
The 2008 Cocina Blend composed of 60% Malbec, 20% Bonarda, and 20% Syrah aged for 12 months in 20% new French and American oak before bottling without fining and filtration (as are all of these red wines). Purple-colored, it has an enticing bouquet of cinnamon, Dentyne gum, cigar box, violets, black cherry, and blueberry. Medium-bodied, round and sweetly-fruited on the palate, it has plenty of savory spice notes, enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years, and a lengthy, pure finish.
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Dombeya
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Stellenbosch South Africa
This is a fatter and richer style Sauvignon Blanc. The wine's nose shows flavor of green figs, granadilla and kiwifruit. The palate is full bodied and lingers with tropical fruit flavors with a good fruit acid balance. Winemaker's notes.
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Jessie's Grove
2008 Earth, Zin & Fire
Lodi
This old vine Zinfandel is something special!! This wine has a deep opaque red-purple color and an intense nose. Loads of blackberry and strawberry flavors with notes of chocolate and spice. Soft tannins and a smooth, long finish. Aged for 10 months in both French and American Oak. Winery notes.
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Felsina
2007 Chianti Classico
Tuscany
Felsina delivers a pretty mineral vein that frames the wine’s vibrant aromas of dried currants, cherry, white earth, dried violets, very light smoke and cedar wood. The wine has structure— thanks to that natural minerality—and wonderful persistency with a clean and defined finish.
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Domaine Charvin
2007 A Cote
Southern Rhone
A deep ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by sweet black cherry, spice box, pepper, and unsmoked cigar tobacco notes. The wine possesses a ripe, round texture, and a long, lusty finish. This is pure hedonism at its best combined with the unmistakable character of Provence. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.
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Stinger
2007 Zinfandel
Paso Robles
Stinger is a blend of two separate clones from two different sides of "The Knoll" Vineyard on the Margarita Ranch in the very southern end of Paso Robles, where it is cooler. The wine is very deep in color, with bright magenta to the rim. The aroma jumps out with African violets, pomegranates and cinnamon. The flavor is rich, dense and fresh with vibrant flavors of red plum, pomegranates and five-spice powder. This is a wine with real flavor that hasn't been blended away. Winery notes.
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Verget
2006 Pouilly Fuisse de Vergisson La Roche
Burgundy
Green-gold. Highly expressive aromas of ripe peach and melon complemented by yellow rose and musky herbs. Fleshy pit fruit flavors are firmed by salty minerality, which adds grip to the long, spicy finish. This clean, racy wine has the balance to repay a few years of aging.
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Poet's Leap
2008 Riesling
Columbia Valley
The Poet's Leap Riesling continues its string of outstanding vintages, once again exceptionally concentrated and complex. The high-acid 2008 vintage adds extra vibrancy to the fruit, giving the wine an impression of dryness (though it is a bit over 1% residual sugar) and a dense, layered fruit component. A mix of old vine and German clones, this is a superb effort. Editors' Choice Award.
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Bodegas Atalaya
2007 Atalaya
Almansa Spain
The 2007 Atalaya is a blend of Monastrell, Garnacha Tintorera, and other red grapes. The wine was aged for eight months in French and American oak. This purple-colored wine has an expressive bouquet of violets, spice box, leather, game, blueberry, and black cherry. On the palate it comes off as borderline kinky and definitely sexy with lots of easy-going flavor, superb depth, complexity, and a 45-second finish. Although it can be enjoyed now, it will evolve for another 2-3 years.
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Ridge Vineyards
2005 Syrah
Lytton West Vineyard Dry Creek Valley
6% Viognier. There is a sense of refinement and pure precision about this bottling that not only moves it to the head of the class but sets it in a class all its own. Very deep and impeccably structured, it eschews runaway ripeness in favor of layered richness and real nuance, and it begs for comparison with the fine wines of Cote Rotie rather than its more blustery Californian kin. It is as classy and sophisticated as local Syrah is likely to get, and it is bound to age famously by dint of balance and depth.
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M. Chapoutier
2008 Les Vignes de Bila-Haut
Cotes du Roussillon Villages
A muscular red, with concentrated flavors of dark cherry, plum, raspberry tart and grilled fig. The dense finish of dark chocolate is firm and focused, with smoky notes. Best from 2010 through 2014.
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Villa Mt. Eden
2006 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir
Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley
Sweet oak abounds and serves as an equal partner to raspberries and cherries in this nicely plumped, moderately full-bodied look at Pinot Noir, and, while fairly ripe, the wine is not defined by its ripeness as much as it is by its very obvious varietal fruit. Its uncomplicated pleasures might come at the cost of complexity, but this is a tasty and eminently likeable wine that delivers the goods at a noteworthy price.
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Gloria Ferrer
2001 Brut Royal Cuvee
Carneros
This sparkling wine is fresh and vibrant, yet offers a core of rich, luscious fruit. Aromas of Asian pear, rose water and lemon curd lead to layered flavors of fresh ginger, pippin apple and cinnamon that finish on a showy note. Drink now through 2013. Only 6,500 cases made.
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Byron Vineyards
2008 Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley
Our 2008 Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir displays aromas of dark cherry and plum, accented by hints of rose petals, brown spice and smoke. The flavor profile has a core of black cherry and dark plum with hints of earth and cardamom backed by a smooth, silky and toasted finish. Winery notes.
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Chateau Ste. Michelle
2006 Merlot Indian Wells District
Columbia Valley
19% Syrah. Here is a straightforward Merlot that gets everything right in terms of the agreeable fruit, open richness and supple texture that are the variety's principal virtues. It may not be the deepest or most complex example to be found, but it is eminently tasty with enough spine to keep for a while, and it ranks as nothing less than an out-and-out bargain.
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Verget
2006 Macon Bussieres VV de Montbrison
Burgundy
Light yellow. Honeyed pear and tangerine on the nose, with licorice, iodine and dried flowers emerging with air. Juicy orchard fruit flavors are firmed by dusty minerals, which extend through the long, juicy finish.
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Landmark
2006 Overlook Chardonnay
Sonoma, Santa Barbara & Monterey
Bright gold. Spicy melon, peach and orange aromas are complicated by smoked meat and floral honey. Leesy melon and pit fruit flavors are energized by zesty minerality, which adds focus and lift.
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Jean Ginglinger
2008 Pinot Blanc
Alsace
A yellow gold color. Aromas of white flowers and yellow peach. This wine is complex, fruity, rich, generous and fresh. Ideally served with fish, shellfish, white meat and poultry. Importers notes.
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Peirano Estate Vineyards
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Lodi California
The rich, dark color of this wine catches you from the first pour. It exhibits a rich deep burgundy hue with perfect clarity. The aromas are a compendium of dark fruit - blackberry, black raspberry, and currant - with elements of toasty oak, chocolate, dark roasted coffee bean, sage and spices. A sip fills the mouth with blackberry pie, with hints of rich, ripe black cherries, sweet oak and white pepper, while maintaining absolute dryness and firm, yet supple, tannins. This delicious Cabernet is ready to drink now and will continue to age gracefully for the next 6 to 8 years. Winery notes.
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Goose Ridge Vineyards
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley
Smooth and polished, delivering a lovely burst of red berry and savory herb flavors that find a harmonious balance and keep shining against fine tannins on the long, elegant finish. Drink now through 2014. Only 1,300 cases made
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Chateau de Fontenille
2009 Blanc
Entre-Deux-Mers Bordeaux
Lovely aromas of very, ripe citrus fruits. The palate is fresh, crisp andat the same time, round and flavorful. The balance between fruit and acid is perfect for before dinner and with dinner. Highly recommended.
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Stags' Leap Winery
2008 Viognier
Napa Valley
The 2008 Stags' Leap Viognier features luscious aromas of fresh pear, guava, honeysuckle and orange blossom. On the palate, flavors of tangerine, pear and lime zest are wrapped around a rich, unctuous texture. The exceptionally long finish is punctuated by a vibrant acidity and notes of white peach and lemon blossom. Winery notes.
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Domaine Andezon
2007 Cotes du Rhone Villages la Grancha
Southern Rhone Valley
A brilliant 100% Grenache cuvee from old vines, the 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages La Granacha Signargues comes from an organically farmed parcel, and is bottled unfined and unfiltered with no SO2 additions. Deep ruby to the rim, with beautiful aromas of kirsch liqueur, melted licorice, ground pepper, and garrigue, it is a superb, full-bodied effort with terrific precision, definition, and concentration. This beauty should drink well for 5-6 years.
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Domiane Manciat-Poncet
2007 Macon-Charnay
Macon Region
Though still young and tight, this is also bold and concentrated, with potent acidity that adds spice and a green floral tone to the fruit. The flavors of green apple, lime pith and ginger last with youthful compression. Give it three or four years in the cellar for the complexity to evolve.
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Ferraton Pere et Fils
2007 Cotes du Rhone Samorens
Southern Rhone Valley
The beautiful 2007 Cotes du Rhone Samorens possesses a solid structure, surprising density, a lot more character and fruit than one normally finds in wines of this level, and lovely black currant and cherry fruit notes interwoven with smoke and earth. Full-bodied and rich, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years.
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Torbreck
2008 Woodcutter's Shiraz
Barossa Valley
The purple-colored 2008 Woodcutter’s Shiraz offers up a fragrant bouquet of violets, Asian spices, plum, and blueberry. Round, smooth-textured, and forward, this flavorful, easy-going effort can be enjoyed over the next 4-5 years.
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Benton-Lane
2008 Pinot Gris
Willamette Valley
This racy gris tastes like biting into a crisp apple. It leads with scents of camellia blossoms, elegant and cool. Its green apple flavors show impressive energy and drive, with a talc-like texture and a fine, dusty stone finish that lasts. Ideal with roast pork and herbed potatoes.
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La Bastide Saint Dominique
2007 Cotes du Rhone Villages
Southern Rhone Valley
The amazing 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages tastes like a first rate Chateauneuf du Pape. Abundant aromas of kirsch liqueur, raspberries, licorice, and garrigue emerge from this fruit-driven, medium to full-bodied, luscious, pure red. Consume it over the next 5-6 years.
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Sierra Cantabria
2003 Cuvee Especial
Rioja Spain
Dark red. Highly expressive, exotic bouquet of fresh red berries, vanillin oak spice and yellow rose. A silky, fine-grained midweight with impressively bright red fruit flavors and round tannins. Nothing hot-year about this. Finishes firm, dry and very persistent.
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Creta Roble
2006 Tempranillo
Ribera del Duero
The 2006 Roble is sourced from a single vineyard at 850 meters of elevation, the highest vineyard in Ribera del Duero. The wine was aged for 4 to 5 months in French and American oak. Purple/black in color, the nose reveals cedar, mineral, damp earth, and assorted black fruits. Powerful on the palate, this tannic, structured effort has superb depth and grip and should evolve for 3-4 years. Drink it from 2011 to 2020.
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Peirano Estate Vineyards
2006 Red Shorts Red
Lodi
The color of this wine is a vibrant deep burgundy. The aromas of blackberries and plums are complimented by spice, toasty oak and cedar notes. The flavors are distinct sweet black cherries, blackberry and smoky boysenberry with a long seductive finish. The wine is ready to drink, but will continue to age over the next 5 to 8 years. Winery notes.
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Cantina Terlano
2008 Terlaner Classico
Alto Adige
A pleasant young white, with sliced pear and apple character and clean mineral notes. Medium-bodied, balanced and fruity, with a tangy finish. Stylish. Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay and Sauvignon. Drink now.
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Ciacci Piccolomini
2006 Rosso di Montalcino
Tuscany
The 2006 Rosso di Montalcino is a knock-out effort bursting with dark red fruit, spices and earthiness. It flows onto the palate with remarkable density and plushness, with silky tannins that are beautifully integrated into the wine. Ciacci’s 2006 Rosso is a gem, and is not to be missed. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2011.
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Mulderbosch
2005 Chardonnay Stellenbosch
Coastal Region South Africa
A plump, ripe style, with rounded pear, grilled hazelnut and Jonagold apple flavors that carry through the creamy, almost showy finish. Still bright enough, despite extra bottle age. Drink now. Only 2,133 cases made.
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Chateau Les Grands Chenes
2006 Bordeaux Blend
Medoc
A blend of 55% merlot, 40% cabernet sauvignon and 5% cabernet franc) Bright ruby-red. Complex aromas of musky currant, dark raspberry, tobacco and nutty oak. Lush and smooth but with lift and vinosity to the currant and tobacco flavors. A sweet, suave midweight with considerable immediate appeal.
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Chateau Pesquie
2007 Cuvee des Terrasses
Cotes du Ventoux
A dense ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of cassis, kirsch, lavender, pepper, and spice. The sweetness of the tannins, abundant glycerin, razor sharp focus, and wonderful depth make for a wine that transcends its humble price and bucolic appellation.
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Molly Dooker
2007 The Maitre d' Cabernet
South Australia
The 2007 The Maitre D’ Cabernet Sauvignon is opaque purple-colored with legs that slowly ooze down the glass. It received the same elevage as The Scooter. It reveals an enticing nose of spice box, scorched earth, smoke, black currant, and blackberry followed by a velvety-textured, layered, savory Cabernet with excellent depth and balance. This lengthy effort will evolve for 1-2 years and provide pleasure through 2017.
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Ulithorne
2003 Shiraz Frux Frugis
McLaren Vale Australia
This big, blockbuster Shiraz (100 cases produced) was aged in a combination of new and old French and American oak. Its deep purple color is accompanied by aromas of graphite, blackberries, cherry liqueur, cola, smoke, and damp earth. Full-bodied and chewy, with abundant glycerin, moderately sweet tannin, and an impressively long, packed finish, it can be drunk now, but will be even better in 2-3 years. It should last for a decade or more.
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Edmeades
2007 Zinfandel
Mendocino
The 2007 Zinfandel Mendocino is a super-generic cuvee boasting a deep ruby hue as well as a stunning nose of sweet, briery black cherries, black currants, spice, and an underlying floral character. Abundant flavor, medium to full body, impressive purity, and fine elegance suggest this delicious Zinfandel should drink well for 2-3 years.
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Gordon Brothers
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley
Distinctly spicy, with cardamom and coriander seed notes prominent in the mix, riding over a supple core of black cherry and blackberry fruit, finishing with polish and real presence. Drink now through 2016. Only 3,000 cases made.
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Duckhorn
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Napa Valley
This Sauvignon Blanc seamlessly combines lush mouth-filling fruit with refreshing acidity. The aromas highlight bright citrus notes of lemon zest grapefruit and kaffir lime underscored by subtle hints of pear and dried apricot. Echoing the aromatics the palate reveals vibrant citrus layers complemented by more subdued tropical elements of banana coconut and lychee. Winery notes.
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Columbia Crest
2007 H3 Merlot
Columbia Valley
Dark, supple and generous with its blackberry and black currant flavors, playing against superfine tannins on an open-textured finish. Floral, savory overtones add depth. Best from 2011 through 2017.
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Ironstone Reserve
2007 Old Vines Zinfandel
Lodi
Lusty and ripe, this big, exuberant Zinfandel brims with black currant, red cherry, plum, chocolate, anise and cedar flavors, leading to a long, spicy finish. It's an easy wine to drink, but also shows some real complexity.
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Errazuriz
2009 Chardonnay
Casablanca Valley Chile
Light greenish-yellow in colour, this wine offers elegant aromas of herbs and fresh fruit that evolve into notes of white flowers accompanied by a hint of truffle. There is plenty of fruit on the palate with a subtle minerality that lends complexity, elegance, and reflects the terroir that produces the grapes. An elegant wine with medium body and volume, tremendous fruit intensity, and lively acidity that promise good cellaring potential. Winemaker's notes.
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d'Arenberg
2004 The Derelict Vineyard Grenache
McLaren Vale Australia
A brilliant effort, the 2004 Grenache The Derelict Vineyard represents a Grenache on steroids. Its deep ruby/purple-tinged color is accompanied by a sweet kiss of kirsch liqueur intermixed with licorice, pepper, and a touch of lavender. Full-bodied with superb concentration, a beautiful, multilayered texture, sweet tannin, low acidity, and a long, supple finish, it should provide plenty of pleasure over the next 7-8 years.
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Vinas del Cenit
2006 Venta Mazzaron
Vines de la Tierra, Spain
The 2006 Venta Mazzaron is 100% Tempranillo aged in oak for nine months. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up a smoky perfume of mineral, licorice, espresso, and blackberry. This leads to a firm, structured wine with plenty of succulent fruit, spice notes, excellent balance, and a pure finish. Although it will improve in the bottle for 1-2 years, it can be enjoyed now.
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Feudi di San Gregorio
2007 Falanghina Sannio
Campania Italy
Aromas of banana, cream and mango follow through to the palate in this full-bodied white, with lots of fruit and a long finish. Drink now.
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Bodegas Emilio Moro
2007 Finca Resalso
Ribera del Duero
The 2007 Finca Resalso was sourced from younger vines and aged in French oak for four months. Dark ruby-colored, it emits an enticing perfume of mineral, violets, black cherry, and blackberry. On the palate it reveals an elegant personality, savory, spicy flavors, good depth, and a fruit-filled finish. Drink this tasty effort over the next four years
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Novelty Hill
2005 Syrah
Columbia Valley
Washington has clearly staked a claim for making some of the New World's best Syrahs. But in this price range? This is a great place to start your explorations. It’s almost pure varietal, dark and tight and spicy. Young and still backward, it rewards breathing time with pure blackberry and black cherry fruits, black olive, coffee grounds and a lick of licorice. Seamless, muscular and layered, this wine definitely wants some breathing time.
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Tikal Patriota
2008 Bonarda/Malbec Blend
Mendoza Argentina
The 2008 Patriota is composed of 60% Bonarda and 40% Malbec aged in French (40% new) and American (seasoned) oak. Purple/black in color, it has a splendid bouquet of cigar box, Asian spices, lavender, black cherry, and plum. Full-bodied, dense, rich, and powerful, this loaded effort has gobs of flavor, succulence, and great length. Only hedonists need apply. Drink it over the next six years while it retains its fleshy character. Jay Miller.
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I Greppi
2007 Greppicante
Bolgheri Italy
Deliver currant, toasty oak and coffee aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a lot of rich fruit. Very polished and attractive. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best after 2012. Only 5,265 cases made.
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Durigutti
2008 Malbec Classico
Mendoza Argentina
A lush, toasty style, with lots of cocoa and roasted vanilla up front, followed by dark, well-layered fig, boysenberry and mulled currant fruit flavors. The long finish lets all the fruit hang nicely, with an underlying graphite hint supporting it all. Drink now through 2011.
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BenMarco
2008 Malbec
Mendoza Argentina
The 2008 Malbec, which contains 10% Bonarda, spent 11 months in 50% new French oak and 50% first use American oak. Purple-colored, it reveals an expressive nose of wood smoke, cinnamon, incense, and black cherry. Round, ripe, medium-bodied, and savory, this layered effort has a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Enjoy it over the next 5 years.
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Meyer-Fonne
2008 Pinot Blanc Vieilles Vignes
Alsace
Normally, Pinot Blanc comes from young vines, and this shows in their bright, refreshing character. The Meyer-Fonné Pinot Blanc is from old vines and there is an added depth and smokiness from the vine age, supported by crisp acidity, a vein of creamy richness, and aroma of raw honey. This is a lot of great wine for such a low price. Importer's notes.
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Jermann
2008 Pinot Grigio
Venezia-Giulia
Tropical fruit aromas lead to a full body, with plenty of fruit and an orange peel and pie tart aftertaste. Delicious.
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Sbragia Family Vineyards
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Home Ranch Dry Creek Valley
Yellow-amber hue. Exotic scents of kumquat and elderberry. Crisp acidity and juicy flavors of Meyer lemon and white grapefruit. Lemon notes resonate in the lingering close.
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Michel Dutour
2008 Pouilly Fuisse La Roche
Maconnais
Very light in weight and color. Clean, round and smooth on the palate with pear and citrus undertones. An excellent food wine. The perfect light, summer, Chardonnay sipper.
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Kaesler
2006 Stonehorse GSM
Barossa Valley
Smooth and velvety, with dusky tobacco nuances to the ripe blackberry and spice flavors, gliding nicely on a sleek frame. Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2016.
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Volver
2007 Tempranillo
La Mancha Spain
The 2007 Volver is sourced from a single 72 acre vineyard that was planted in 1967 with head pruned Tempranillo. The wine was barrel-fermented and aged for 14 months in new French oak. Purple-colored, it offers up an alluring aromatic array of pain grille, smoke, violets, black cherry, and blackberry that jumps from the glass. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied with gobs of ripe fruit, succulent flavors, soft tannins, and excellent balance. This lengthy effort over-delivers big-time and is a superb value.
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M. Chapoutier
2005 Crozes-Hermitage Petite Ruche
Northern Rhone Valley
Focused and pure, with a racy beam of black cherry, mineral, floral and sanguine flavors. The nice tangy finish shows a touch of grip. Exhibits the vintage's purity and backbone. Drink now through 2008.
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Huber
2008 Gruner Veltliner
Austria
Pale green-yellow. Subtle aromas and flavors of cantaloupe, orange and lemon verbena are nicely framed and lifted by juicy, well-integrated acid. The refreshing finish of this harmonious, medium-bodied wine shows the typical Gruner Veltliner pepperiness. Drink now through 2018.
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Chocolate Box
2007 Dark Chocolate Shiraz
Barossa Valley
Impressive for its balance of soft, creamy richness with bright, juicy raspberries. Notes of brown sugar, cinnamon and espresso add a layer of decadence surprising at this price. EDITORS' CHOICE AWARD.
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De Lisio
2005 Quarterback Red
McLaren Vale Australia
An intriguing blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon aged in mostly old French wood, the deep ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Quarterback reveals notions of new saddle leather, black currants, licorice, and spice box. Full-bodied as well as elegant, restrained, and Eurocentric in character, it should be consumed over the following 6-10 years.
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Delas
2007 Cotes du Rhone St. Esprit
Southern Rhone Valley
The amazing 2007 Cotes du Rhone St.-Esprit (75% Syrah and 25% Grenache) reveals a northern Rhone orientation, but it is loaded with spice and black fruits, and displays a beautiful opulent texture as well as a gorgeous finish with impressive purity. Chateauneuf du Pape has also benefitted from the new attention to detail and upgraded quality. The good news is that there are about 1,500 cases of this cuvee.
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Saint Roch Les Vignes
2009 Rose
Cotes du Provence
A 50/50 blend of Cinsault and Grenache. Delightful mixed aromas of fresh strawberries and herbs. It offers a refreshing palate of dry cherry and herbs. This is a perfect summer sipper.
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Cannonball
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
California
This is a big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon. It explodes with black cherry and wild berry fruit. Finishes off with notes of chocolate and oak while the rich texture lingers long with a bright, fresh finish. Winery notes.
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Domaine Nicolas Maillet
2007 Macon Verze
Burgundy
Light yellow-gold. Precise, high-pitched nose offers lemon, lime, fresh ginger and salty minerals. Incisive and pure, with finely etched citrus and green apple flavors and vivid minerality. Reminds me of a top-drawer Chablis for its energy, citrus expression and tanginess. Lucid and quite long on the aftertaste.
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Familia Zuccardi Q
2006 Tempranillo
Mendoza Argentina
The 2006 Tempranillo Q was sourced from an estate vineyard planted in 1974. Purple-colored, it displays an enticing bouquet of mineral, blackberry, pepper, and espresso. Medium- to full-bodied, on the palate it is dense, nicely endowed with spicy, savory fruit, and impeccably balanced. It will evolve for 2-3 years and will offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2018. Jay Miller.
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Bremerton
2006 Shiraz "Selkirk"
Langhorne Creek South Australia
The 2006 Selkirk Shiraz was produced entirely from estate-grown fruit. It was aged for 18 months in 30% new American oak barriques. Purple in color, it has an attractive nose of cedar, spice box, pepper, blueberry, and blackberry. This leads to a savory Shiraz which exhibits some elegance, good grip, and a lengthy, pure finish. Give it 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2010 to 2018.
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Landmark Vineyards
2007 Steel Plow Syrah
Sonoma Valley
Saturated ruby. Extremely primary nose displays dark berry and cherry skin scents, along with cracked pepper and black olive. Deep and sweet on the palate, with chewy dark fruit compote flavors, youthfully firm tannins and a late note of candied violet. Gains energy with air and finishes with impressive lift and cut.
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Zios
2007 Albarino
Rias Biaxas Spain
Zios is a perfect example of a textbook Albarino. It's slightly gold in color with aromas of lemon, flowers and spices. Fresh, crisp and round on the palate with very good length. Highly Enjoyable.
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Bouchaine
2007 Pinot Noir
Carneros
The wine highlights classic Carneros fruit: pomegranate, plum, and cherry fruit flavors, balanced by nuances of coffee and toffee. The multiple layers of flavors lead to a silky finish that lingers on the palate. Winery notes.
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Havens
2005 Reserve Merlot
Carneros
A selection of the best lots of merlot, a majority from Hyde Vineyard. Bright ruby-red. Riper, wilder aromas of black raspberry, meat, dark chocolate and spices. Distinctly sweeter and silkier than the basic merlot, with well-integrated acidity contributing to an impression of energy. This spreads out nicely to coat the palate and finishes with sweeter tannins and greater length than the basic bottling.
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Molly Dooker
2009 the "Violinist" Verdelho
McLaren Vale Australia
The current Mollydooker collection begins with the one white wine, the medium straw-colored 2009 Verdelho The Violinist. It was partially barrel-fermented and aged on its lees in barrel and tank. It gives up fragrant aromas of toast, baked apple, mango, and other tropical aromas. Creamy textured, round, ripe, and concentrated, this long, tasty wine can be enjoyed over the next 2 years.
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the Black Chook
2005 Shiraz-Viognier
Langhorne Creek Australia
Deep violet. Powerful, ripe aromas of blackberry, candied licorice, tar, oak spice and fresh flower are precise and hugely seductive. Offers great intensity of raspberry and blackberry liqueur flavor, with sexy baking spice notes. For all this flavor, the wine is surprisingly elegant, with silky tannins and gently acids giving lift and freshness.
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Chateau Fombrauge
2006 Bordeaux Blend
St. Emilion
The 2006 Fombrauge is a soft, round, spicy effort displaying plenty of oak, earth, and ripe red currant and black cherry fruit. This pretty, alluring, charming effort is best drunk over the next 7-8 years. It is a blend of 77% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon.
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Domiane de la Noblaie
2006 Chinon "Les Chiens-Chiens"
Loire Valley
This shows dense flavors of black fig, black cherry and cassis, yet its fresh acidity gives the wine a vibrant, energetic feel. It's delicious now, and should gain further harmony and complexity with time
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Bodegas Mano a Mano
2005 Venta La Ossa
La Mancha Spain
Opaque violet. Sexy, oak-spiced cherry and cassis aromas offer an array of Asian spices, vanilla and mocha. Suave dark fruit liqueur flavors are velvety and seemingly tannin-free. Gains focus on the sappy, sweet finish. Oaky, yes, but also packed with concentrated fruit.
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Vina Godeval
2008 Godeval
Valdeorras Spain
Green-tinged gold. Pungent, expressive bouquet evokes peach pit, almond, tarragon and white pepper. Deep, chewy pit and orchard fruit flavors are complemented by hints of spice and dried flowers, with the tarragon note repeating on the finish. This wine could stand up to strongly flavored foods.
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Slipstream
2006 Shiraz/Grenache
McLaren Vale
Inky red. Impressively complex aromas of black raspberry, licorice, black cardamom and fresh violet. Deep and fleshy, with sweet red and dark berry flavors, a youthfully chewy texture and a late jolt of anise. Gains power with air, finishing with excellent clarity and length.
| Sale Price: $13.99 |
ST - 90 | |
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Decoy
2007 Red Blend
Napa Valley
Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this is a dry, full-bodied wine that shows considerable sophistication and elegance. Fruit aficionados will find a wealth of blackberries, cherries and cocoa, while structuralists will like the firm tannins and acids. Quite good now and for a few years.
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Allegrini
2004 Palazzo della Torre
Veneto Italy
Allegrini's Palazzo della Torre (70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 5% Sangiovese) has long been one of my favorite ripasso-style wines and the 2004 is another winner. It reveals a plump, juicy personality loaded with perfumed, jammy fruit, roasted coffee beans and new leather. Although it is absolutely irresistible today, a few additional months of bottle age should help soften the wine further. It is a gorgeous effort at this level and a terrific value.
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Alkoomi
2004 Shiraz Viognier
Frankland River
Dark violet. Exuberant and high-pitched on the nose, with scents of blackberry, blueberry, candied cherry, vanilla and floral oils, along with an exotic hint of apricot. Fine-grained, silky red and dark berry flavors are complicated by floral and oak spice notes, with subtle supporting tannic structure. A sexy wine, with a suave, velvety finish emphasizing sweet berry fruit.
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Llopart
2006 Brut Rose
Cava Spain
The 2006 Llopart Brut Rose was produced by the traditional Champagne method and is composed of 60% Monastrell, 20% Garnacha, and 20% Pinot Noir. Salmon pink-colored, it has a lovely perfume of strawberry, rhubarb, and biscuit. Crisp on the palate with a persistent stream of small bubbles, this tasty Cava would be the ideal match for Spain’s legendary Joselito jamon when Dom Perignon Rose is unavailable.
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Joseph Drouhin
2008 Pouilly Fuisse
Burgundy
Pouilly-Fuissé has an emerald-golden hue. It is usually very brilliant. The bouquet is seductive : floral and fruity with a dominance of ripe fruit and fresh almonds. After some time in the bottle, Pouilly-Fuissé develops a lovely, complex bouquet. On the palate, the wine is round and dry. As such, it is a nice expression of the Chardonnay. Importer's notes.
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Emilio Moro
2006 Red Blend
Ribera Del Duero
The 2006 Emilio Moro was aged in French and American oak for 12 months. It has a superb bouquet of smoke, roasted herbs, scorched earth, and blackberry. Layered on the palate, it has tons of fruit, plenty of spice box notes, a firm structure, and 2-3 years of aging potential. This lengthy effort should provide pleasure through 2026.
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Cliff Lede
2009 Sauvignon Blanc
Napa Valley
Intense citrus blossom, honeysuckle, and tropical undertones of pineapple, calamansi lime, and passion fruit describe the nose of the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc. The wider use of the Musque clone in this blend contributes to this vintage’s intense floral and tropical flavors. Subtle notes of marzipan, ginger, and tarragon add complexity in the finish complimenting the lemon meringue and strawberry guava base. The crisp minerality lifts the flavors in the palette making this wine perfect with spicy dishes. Winery notes.
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La Spinetta
2008 Moscato d'Asti
Piedmont Italy
This Moscato d'Asti offers beautiful aromatic intensity to match its luminous golden color. The wine is fresh and zippy in the mouth but then that natural sweetness takes over and caresses the palate. This is an excellent example of Piedmont's favorite sparkling dessert wine.
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Domaine Charvin
2007 Cotes du Rhone Le Poutet
Southern Rhone Valley
Juicy, with nice grip underlying the mix of red and black currant fruit, laced with tobacco, hot stone and garrigue notes. Very lively. Drink now through 2010. Only 5,435 cases made.
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Torbreck
2008 Juveniles
Barossa Valey
Supple and silky, this distinctive for and herbal edge to its dark cherry and chocolate flavors, lingering beautifully. Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro. Drink now through 2015.
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Cristina Ascheri
2007 Langhe Arneis
Piedmont Italy
This wine has a beautiful bouquet of fresh, spring flowers. On the palate, it's a tiny bit spicy and the fruit flavors (green apple, citrus and lemon) area absolutely delightful. Crisp, fresh with a slight hint of nuttiness. A pure value in Arneis.
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Peachy Canyon Winery
2006 Zinfandel
Old School House Paso Robles
This very well-constructed, medium-full-bodied Zin features fully ripened blackberry aromas that steer to fruity side of the varietal spectrum, and that mannerly approach continues in flavors that demonstrate plenty of depth to go along with both good, but not intrusive, tannic structure and firming latter-palate acidity. Drinkable now with savory pork roasts and pastas in red sauces, it can age a bit as well.
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Villa Mt. Eden
2006 Chardonnay Grand Reserve
Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Maria Valley
Shows a welcome return to form, with lush oak-inspired flavors of grilled pineapples, apricots and mulled green apple cider. This is a very good price for a Chardonnay of this quality.
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Onix
2007 Vinicola del Priorat
Priorat Spain
The 2007 Onix is a blend of Garnacha old-vines and Carinena. It is medium ruby-colored with a bouquet of mineral, earth notes, leather, blueberry, and cherry. Elegant on the palate, it reveals a smooth-texture, excellent depth, and a pure close. Drink it over the next eight years.
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Lamadrid
2006 Malbec Reserva
Mendoza Argentina
The dark ruby-colored 2006 Malbec Reserva offers a spicy, black cherry-scented perfume leading to a chunky wine with good depth, savory flavors, excellent balance, and a pure finish. Drink this excellent value over the next three years.
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Broglia
2008 Gavi La Meirana
Piedmont Italy
Broglia's 2008 Gavi di Gavi La Meirana is wonderfully fresh and perfumed in its peaches, apricots, spices and flowers. This is an especially ripe style of Gavi with an almost-tropical expression of fruit wrapped into a medium-bodied frame. The wine's balance is simply impeccable. As is often the case, Broglia makes some of the finest wines in the Gavi appellation.
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Torres
2006 Celeste
Ribera Del Duero
Built on a solid base of black currant and cherry flavors, this 100 percent tinto fino slowly expands its flavor profile to a spicier tone, while the tannins remain firm. For roast baby lamb.
| Sale Price: $16.99 |
W&S - 90 | |
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Tenuta Curezza
2008 Prine
Salento
A bright cherry red colored wine with jammy red fruit (especially red plums and currants), violet and white pepper aromas. In the mouth, this full-bodied wine has intense black cherry, cola, blackberry jam and mineral flavors and a long finish on fruit. This hearty Italian red is the perfect pizza and pasta wine. It will also be great with roasted or grilled meat, sausage and aged cheeses. Winery notes.
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Bodegas Ondarre
2004 Rioja Reserva
Rioja Spain
Black cherry, licorice, smoke, tobacco and tar notes mingle nicely in this firm, lively red. Maturing now, but shows balance and length. Still fresh, it brings you back for another sip. Drink now through 2016.
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Cantina del Taburno
2008 Aglianico Rosato Albarosa
Campania Italy
Cantine del Taburno's 2008 Aglianico del Taburno Rosato Albarosa is gorgeous in its layers of soft, perfumed fruit, all of which come together with superb harmony. There is plenty of Aglianico character in the glass, not to mention tons of personality. Simply put, the 2008 Albarossa is not to be missed.
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Wither Hills
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Wairau Valley New Zealand
Crisp and vibrant, this is lively with grapefruit, lemon and pineapple fruit, lingering on the racy finish. Drink now.
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Charles Smith Wines
2009 Kung Fu Girl Riesling
Evergreen Vineyard Columbia Valley
This Girl is serious!Aromatic, smooth, vibrant and tasty. Think tangerine, apricot, wet stone, key lime, clove, and nectarine. Now stop thinking and start drinking.....'CAUSE KUNG FU GIRL KICKS ASS! winery notes.
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Post House
2008 Blueish White
Stellenbosch South Africa
Elegant and finely crafted blend of 60% Chenin Blanc and 40% Sauvignon Blanc giving a fruity upfront wine for easy drinking. Lightly colored with a tinge of green and a nose of pineapple, guave, citrus and grassy tones. Full and intensely refreshing mouthfeel.
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Domaine Cristia
2007 Vacqueyras
Southern Rhone Valley
Reds from the Southern Rhone basically come a few different styles all of which have their place and when they're made well can be enjoyed for what they are. However, one of my favorite styles is this one: Big, rich, gamey and highly extracted and for all that going on the tannins are smooth and well behaved. This is what you can do with a Vacqueyras in a great vintage. It's as good as many Chateauneufs at a 1/3 the price.
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Saint Clair Vicar's ChoiceTerrunyo
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough New Zealand
Initially tight, with a reductive scent of scallions, this opens with air, as it will with six months in bottle. The flavors are clean and rainwater-fresh, with the fruit richness of nectarine and litchi. The acidity is finely integrated, providing the kind of crisp finish that suits briny oysters.
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GirardTerrunyo
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
This cabernet's sweet black cherry flavors gained spice from time in oak. That
oak is seamlessly integrated, adding high tones to the tannin and warmth to the finish while the fruit remains cool and clean. An approachable Napa Valley cabernet at a reasonable price, this is suited to roast lamb.
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Enkidu
2007 Humbaba
Sonoma-Lake-Napa
A total hedonistic wine experience. The color is an inky purple with beautiful aromas of lavender and dark fruits. The palate is rich and full of flavors from black fruits, blueberry, boysenberry and cherry. Long, smooth finish to end it all.
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Goose Ridge Winery
2007 Estate Riesling
Columbia Valley
Unabashed and fragrant. The straw toned hue sets up a nose that offers Bosc pear, golden delicious apple, apricots and honeysuckle; the parade of aromatics is bound by a fresh lemony fragrance. The palate is medium bodied; this Riesling is a touch richer with delightful elements of residual sugar to balance its bright acidity. Stone fruits, nectarine and floral elements dominate while pleasing touches of minerality act as supporting cast. The finish is long and clean.
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True Grit
2004 Petite Sirah
Mendocino
Paul Dolan and the Thornhill family joined forces to buy Parducci in 2004, converting this old Mendocino winery into a thoroughly modern one. This petite takes Parducci into a new league. It's a vibrant wine, saturated in it color and it s purple-black fruit, pure Mendocino petite in the redwood-frond character of the tannin and delicious for it. There's a bluesy tension right in the middle of the wine where acidity drive all the dark tones into a brighter riff. Check this out.
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Marcel Lapierre
2007 Morgon
Morgon Region
Bottled unfiltered, this shows extravagant fruit, very rich, black cherry in character, with tannins that veer between serious structured concentration and balanced with the fruit. The texture is sweet, the fruit deliciously ripe, showing good concentration as well as an exuberant play between acidity and fruit.
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Bodegas Teso la Monja
2007 Almirez
Toro Spain
The grapes for the 2007 Almirez came from 30-year-old ungrafted head pruned vines. The wine was aged for 12 months in one-year-old French oak. Deep crimson-colored, it displays an expressive nose of spice box, espresso, plum, and blackberry compote. Full-bodied on the palate with layers of savory black fruits, lots of spice, and enough fine-grained tannin to evolve for 1-2 years, it will drink beautifully from 2011 to 2019. It is an excellent value that over-delivers in a big way. Jay Miller.
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Domaine Lafage
2008 Cote d'Est
Languedoc Roussillon
The wine is aged in tank on its fine lees and the result is not only irresistibly delicious but truly complex. Orange and lime zest, white pepper, narcissus, fennel, and mint in the nose lead to a juicy, bright palate with musky floral perfume and a shimmering interchange of citrus with wet stone, salt, iodine, and other ineffable mineral elements.
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Stags' Leap Winery
2006 Petite Syrah
Napa Valley
A blend of 75% Petite Syrah, 17% Syrah, 5% Grenache and 1% Mourvedre. Expressive notes of cocoa powder, raspberry and lavender introduce this luscious and intensely fruity Petite Syrah. The palate follows with ripe black plum, black coffee, bittersweet chocolate and brown spice wrapped around structured tannins with juicy, berry flavors on the finish.
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Chateau Peynaud
2009 White Blend
Bordeaux
50% Semillon, 50% Sauvignon - Château Peynaud is a fresh, crisp and fruity wine. An aromatic citrus nose leads into a vivacious palate with delectable acidity. Can age for 2-3 years. Serve with seafood, fish & salad. Importers notes.
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Domaine De La Petite Cassagne
2009 Rose
Costieres de Nimes
Very fresh and juicy, with racy red and black currant fruit laced with a bracing cherry pit hint. Solid length. Drink now.
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Copain
2006 Syrah
Madder Lake Lake County
The 2006 Syrah Madder Lake is co-fermented with 5% Viognier, and that gives the wine an exotic, heady feel to the exuberant aromatics. It is a wine to drink in the next 4-5 years and is a wonderful bistro-styled Rhone Valley red with loads of spicy, peppery, peach and blackberry fruit notes in a stunningly proportioned style. It’s seamless and velvety-textured.
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Ken Forrester
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Stellenbosch South Africa
Shows good richness and focus, with lemon peel, honeysuckle and pink grapefruit notes that linger through the medium-weight finish. Drink now. 8,000 cases made.
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Atalon
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
Made in a similar style, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa displays a deep ruby/purple hue as well as an elegant bouquet of licorice, new saddle leather, toasty oak, and black currants. Low acidity, velvety tannin, and a medium-bodied, elegant style suggest consumption over the next 10-12 years.
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Bodegas Hijos de Juan Gil
2007 Monastrell
Jumilla
100% monastrell. Opaque purple. Blueberry, boysenberry and smoky Indian spices on the nose, with a sexy floral quality coming on with air. Juicy, sweet dark berry flavors are framed by velvety tannins and enlivened by zesty minerality. Gains depth and fleshiness with air, finishing on a strong boysenberry note, with excellent sappy persistence. This is delicious right now.
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Domaine de la Rossignole
2008 Sancerre Cuvee Vieilles Vignes
Loire Valley
Pale yellow. Spicy citrus and orchard fruits on the nose, with notes of fennel and white pepper adding energy. Tightly wound, focused grapefruit and lemongrass flavors are deepened by a note of bitter pear skin. The finish is taut, linear and refreshingly tangy.
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Chateau Des Roques
2007 Vacqueras
Southern Rhone Valley
The 2007 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, loads of roasted herbs, smoky black cherries, and cassis, good acidity, and a sumptuous, full palate. Elegant and pure, it should be a crowd-pleaser over the next 3-4 years.
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Jermann
2008 Chardonnay
Venezia Italy
Its color is brilliant straw-yellow with greenish highlights, its aroma is intense and fruity (banana when young, golden delicious apple when mature), lightly aromatic and with excellent persistence.The wine noticeably exalts the natural aromas of the grape variety. Winery notes.
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Ameztoi
2009 Txakolina
Pais Vasco, Spain
Ameztoi’s 2009 Txakolina is light straw-colored with a come hither nose of mineral, green apple, citrus, and sea salt. Crisp and vibrant on the palate with residual CO2 livening things up, this dry, intense offering will drink well for another 12-18 months. Jay Miller.
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Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier
2007 Shiraz-Viognier
Victoria Australia
This joint-venture has been turning out consistently charming, balanced Shiraz over the past few vintages. The 2007 is simultaneously peppery-spicy, floral-perfumed and meaty-savory. It's medium-bodied, with a lovely plump softness to its mouthfeel, yet not without spine. Drink it over the next 5-8 years.
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Chateau La Baume
2007 Red Blend
Costieres De Nimes
25% Syrah, 25% Grenache & 50% Carignan. Incredibly, deep purple in color...almost inky! The wine oozes with fruit. Flavors include; cassis, herbs, blackberry, dark chocolate and ripe cherry. This full-bodied wine drinks well now but could last at least 10 years.
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Mapema
2008 Malbec
Mendoza Argentina
Slightly candied berries, licorice and mint, lifted by a floral note. Very ripe, even a bit roasted, yet not overly sweet, with good density to the flavors of currant, chocolate, tobacco and herbs. Finishes with sweet tannins and broad flavors of black licorice and spice.
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The Black Chook
2007 Shiraz Viognier
South Australia
Highly perfumed nose offers an energetic bouquet of peppery dark berries, fresh violet and smoked meat. On the palate, this displays a real northern Rhonelike personality, with an array of dark berry and candied floral fl avors. Picks up vanilla and cola on the seductively sweet and very persistent fi nish. Leaves tangy minerality behind, along with a lively note of cracked pepper.
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Familia Zuccardi Q
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza Argentina
The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Q spent 12 months in new French oak. Purple-colored, it exhibits an excellent perfume of damp earth, mineral, tobacco, spice box, and black currant. Medium-bodied, it has layered flavors, plenty of succulence, good balance, and a lengthy finish. Give it 2-3 years of additional bottle age and drink it from 2011 to 2018. Jay Miller.
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Layer Cake
2008 Malbec
Mendoza Argentina
Dense purple-colored with notes of blackberry, earth, roasted meats, and a hint of barbecue spice, this wine exhibits great fruit, delicious, full-bodied texture, silky tannins, and a long finish. It does taste more like a $30-50 bottle of Malbec than one that can be purchased for $15. It should drink nicely for at least 2-3 years.
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William Fevre
2008 Chablis "Champs Royaux"
Chablis
Bright yellow-green. High-pitched aromas of lime oil and spearmint. At once supple and juicy, with enticing fruit intensity and good fat and cut. Finishes ripe, tasty and persistent. A very good villages.
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Verget
2006 Pouilly Fuisse VV Les Combes
Burgundy
Light yellow. Spicy lime, Anjou pear and white flowers on the nose, with a suave mineral underpinning. Juicy orchard fruit flavors are given a pleasant bitterness by anise and lime pith, gaining in firmness with air. Brisk, finely etched citrus flavors define the finish, which leaves a strong note of minerals behind.
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Matanzas Creek
2007 Sauvignon Blanc
Sonoma County
This hits the pure passionfruit flavor of finely ripened sauvignon. It's mouthwatering and firmly structured, with umami flavors of oyster mushrooms and marrow to balance the fruit. A portion of the blend is sauvignon musque (13%) and a portion is fermented and aged in French oak barrels (21%). The result is delicious with roast fish.
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Flora Springs
2007 Merlot
Napa Valley
Our Napa Valley Merlot has always been a favorite among seekers of soft supple red wines ready to drink from the get go. To celebrate the 'born ready' exuberance of our merlot we chose to bottle the 2007 vintage in a Stelvin closure. The 2007 vintage shows full fruit characteristics of strawberry and cherry, with a hint of raspberry and spice. Rather than make you sweat for it, we’ll just make you twist for it! Winery notes.
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Perez Cruz
2008 Carmenere Reserva Limited Edition
Maipo Valley Chile
Let this onet get some air for about 2 hours, after that it opens up beautifully. It offers up aromas of blueberry and cigar box. It's mouth-filling flavors coat the palate and the tannins are long and silky.
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Gain Bay
2008 Cabernet Family
Napa Valley
A well-priced wine from Napa! As it was the case with the three previous releases, this puppy is ready upon uncorking. The fruit was sourced from some very well-known Napa Valley vineyards. This latest release offers a nice array of spicy black stone fruit with a whiff of sweet vanilla. Medium to full in body and layered with luscious fruit on the palate. Winery notes.
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Clos de L'Oratoire des Papes
2007 Chateauneuf du Pape
Southern Rhone Valley
The 2007 traditional Chateauneuf du Pape is a beauty – deep ruby/purple in color with a classic nose of jammy black cherries and black currants intermixed with lavender, spice box, fruit cake, and pepper. It is a medium to full-bodied wine with silky tannins, an alluring texture, and terrific purity and length. Drink it over the next decade.
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Neyers
2006 Zinfandel
Pato Ranch Contra Costa
As for the 2006 Zinfandel Pato Vineyard, this wine has a dark ruby color as well, with hints of bay leaf, tobacco, loamy soil notes, and some sweet cherry and strawberry notes. The wine is medium-bodied and spicy.
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Isole e Olena
2007 Chianti Classico
Tuscany
Moderately saturated red. Complex aromas of red fruits, gunflint, white pepper and violet. Then sweet, supple and silky in the mouth, with rather suave red fruit, tobacco and sweet spice flavors. The firm finish features building chewy tannins, sneaky length and a persistent floral note. Though it's already quite accessible, I'd cellar it for another couple of years and enjoy for another ten after that.
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Vignamaggio
2001 Chianti Classico Riserva
Castello di Monna Lisa Tuscany
The estate’s 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Monna Lisa presents perfumed aromatics along with vibrant notes of black cherries, violets, and toasted oak. This beautifully-proportioned blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot was aged in small French oak barrels. Another year or two should help the oak tannins better integrate into the wine. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Antonio Galloni.
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Columbia Crest
2007 H3 Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley
Polished and silky in texture, with ripe blackberry, currant and mint flavors that keep sailing through the long, expressive finish. The tannins are beautifully integrated. Best from 2011 through 2017.
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Perrin & Fils
2007 Vinsobres 'Les Cornuds'
Southern Rhone Valley
Very pure, with superracy red cherry, raspberry and violet notes that stretch out through the lengthy, graphite-filled finish. There's lovely, integrated acidity. Delicious. Drink now through 2011. 5,000 cases made.
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Bodegas Caro
2008 Amancaya
Mendoza Argentina
(50/50 blend) Bright red-ruby. Subtle, fresh and wonderfully aromatic nose offers complex scents of redcurrant, blueberry, strawberry, tobacco, mocha, graphite, leather and cedar. Penetrating and claret-like, with superb delineation to the redcurrant and tobacco flavors. Perfectly integrated acidity and an intriguing herbal nuance give this wine a light touch. Finishes with tactile, dusty tannins and lovely lift and persistence. Offers compelling complexity and class for the price.
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Villa de Ontur
2006 Monastrell
Jumilla
Enticing aromas of raspberry jam arouse your sense of smell. It has juicy flavors of red berries and dark fruits with a hint of mineral. There's simply no tannins here to get in the way. Finishes clean and fresh.
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Goyette
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
This is a very tasty Napa Cabernet without the Napa Cabernet price. No sticker shock here! Rich and delicious....It has the power and complexity of some of the bigger names in Napa. A great find and value in Napa Cabernet.
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Marques de Caceres
2004 Reserva Tempranillo
Rioja Spain
This reflects the vintage in its beefy richness, while it follows Cáceres's modern style in the polish and elegance of its tannin. The fruit develops definition with air, tasting of tiny cherries and red currants. For the cellar, or give it time in a decanter for lamb chops off the grill.
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Eroica
2007 Riesling
ColumbiaValley
Bright and juicy, with bracing acidity against lightly sweet, expressive pear, apricot and quince aromas and flavors, remaining vibrant as the finish persists. A slate character hovers in the background. Drink now through 2017.
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Ridge Vineyards
2007 Zinfandel Three Valleys
Dry Creek Valley
8% Petite Sirah; 7% Syrah; 6% Grenache; 3% Carignane. When measured against its far riper cousins, this very well-balanced wine may seem a bit light on muscle, but what is really missing is fat, and, instead, it turns out to be both deep and quite long on bona fide fruity substance. Its careful composition and keen, claret-like structure mark it indelibly as an eminently food-worthy Zin for now and the next few years.
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Rocca Del Principe
2008 Fiano Di Avelino
Avelino
This wine shows in a beautiful straw yellow, very clear and is of good consistency. The impact is intense and delicate, floral and fruity notes of fresh citrus fruit. At first taste accepts a sweet attack due to a slight residual sweetness, and then loosens the reins of an incredible contribution to propel the acid drop. Overall, the two sensations in contrast end up with the balance. Winery notes.
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Domaine Chignard
2008 Fleurie les Moriers
Beaujolais
Relatively light in color and body by Chignard’s standards, it is dominated by but tart-edged blackberry and mulberry fruit, but harbors meat stock and marrow element to accompany its bright finishing fruit. Fleurie is dominated by iron-rich, weathered granite, and lacks the manganese-rich clay found in much of Moulin-a-Vent and often associated with that appellation’s age-worthiness. But ever since two years ago when I tasted a remarkably fresh 1928 Fleurie that had been bottled by Sichel, I have been more convinced than cellaring Chignard’s wines had already made me that this is an appellation with amazing potential. David Schildknecht.
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Roederer Estate
non Vintage Sparkling Brut
Anderson Valley
Fully ready to drink now, this dry brut shows the classy elegance of a fine Champagne. The Chardonnay contributes white peaches and apples, while Pinot adds a subtle note of cherries with spicy, yeasty nuances.
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De Martino
2006 Syrah Legado Reserva
Choapa Chile
This is alluring, with shaved vanilla and cocoa powder notes followed by a ripe beam of focused black cherry and currant fruit. The long, fine-grained finish stretches out nicely. Drink now through 2010. Only 6,000 cases made.
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Babich
2008 Chardonnay
Hawkes Bay New Zealand
Supple, silky and refined, showing lovely pear and honey character, with a touch of golden raisin, as the finish sails on. This is creamy at the end.
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Z-52
2005 Zinfandel
Agnes Vineyard Lodi
Medium crimson hue. Pretty aromas of raisin, plum and redwood. Rich texture on entry with chewy cherry, rhubarb and sweet vanilla-laced tannins. Sweet/sour red fruit on the finish with a smooth integration of subtle oaky notes.
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Joseph Phelps
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Napa Valley
This year’s Sauvignon Blanc is distinctive for its aromatics of lemon curd, honeydew and lime blossom, all of which contribute to freshness in the palate. The minerality, bright fruit, fine texture and length create mouth-watering, lingering flavors. Winery notes.
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Domaines des Chanssaud
2007 Cotes du Rhone Blanc
Southern Rhone Valley
This Estate bottled Rhone Blanc is absolutely delicious.Very fresh and exciting with beautiful floral notes. Easy going flavors of honeysuckle, melon, peach and bit of orange blossom. Highly enjoyable.
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Kaesler
2005 Avignon
Barossa Valley
The 2005 GSM Avignon, a Provencal look-alike made from 41% Grenache, 40% Shiraz, and 19% Mourvedre aged 12 months in old French oak, reveals an attractive peppery, herbal, sweet cherry, and raspberry-scented bouquet with plenty of spice and cedar. Ripe, opulent, and full-bodied with a Mediterranean character, it will offer tremendous flexibility with a variety of cuisines. The Grenache and Mourvedre are from 70-year-old vines, and the Shiraz from 105-year-old vines.
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Rancho Zabaco
2004 Zinfandel
Russian River Valley
The 2004 Zinfandel Russian River (1,500 cases) is stunning. Coming from a vineyard near Porter Creek, this wine has a dense ruby/purple color, a big nose of black tea, underbrush, sweet cherry jam, raspberry, and earth. Full-bodied, dense, chewy, and opulent, this is a stunner to drink over the next 3-4 years.
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Pavillon Crossing
2008 Chardonnay
Northcoast
The grapes from this 2008 Chardonnay come from vineyards within Sonoma’s Russian River Valley and Napa Valley. The aromas are complex with bright spicy green apple, pear and hint of vanilla. The pallet is creamy and full bodied with hints of butter, nut and light toasty oak. The balance of this wine makes it a pleasure to savor on its own or enjoy with a variety of foods. Winery notes.
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Allan Scott Family Winemakers
2009 Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough New Zealand
A fragrant mix of pineapple and passionfruit tropical aromas with underlying ripe citrus characters adding complexity to the nose. On the palate, again a flavorsome array of pineapples and passionfruit, with a zesty citrus essence of orange and lime. Texture from the fruit concentration gives this wine great mouthfeel with a mouthwatering acid backbone creating an enduring, structured and well balanced finish. Winery notes.
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Piane di Maggio
2008 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Italy
A beautiful, vibrant, ruby-purple-red wine with a nose of plums, raisins, black cherries dates and berries. In the mouth, the tannins are balanced by supple roundness and attractive blackberry and plum flavors. A robustly structured wine, it has balanced alcohol and fruit and a particularly long finish for a wine in this price range. Serve this food-friendly wine with grilled or roasted lamb, mushrooms, pasta with meat sauce, roasted meats or cheeses. Enjoy now through 2013. Winery notes.
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Casar de Burbia
2006 Tebaida
Bierzo Castilla Leon Spain
Saturated violet color. Sexy dark berry preserve and candied plum aromas are brightened by Asian spices and floral scents. Pliant and concentrated, with lively black raspberry and cassis flavors, velvety tannins and a late jolt of vanilla and cola. Manages to be deep and succulent while maintaining energy and clarity, and finishes with noteworthy sweetness and length. A very seductive wine that is delicious now but built to age.
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Domiane Ostertag
2007 Sylvaner
Alsace
Pale, green-tinged color. Pretty aromas and flavors of pear, lime, mint and flowers. Brisk and energetic, with good cut and precision. Very pure on the aftertaste.
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Finca Sandoval
2007 Salia
Manchuela
A subtle, balanced red, delivering firm tannins that are fleshed out by dark berry, plum and lots of spice. A touch of dark chocolate shows midpalate, and through to the lingering finish. Give this some air in the glass. Best from 2011 through 2017. Only 500 cases imported.
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Excelsior
2009 Chardonnay
South Africa
This lively Chardonnay starts with lemon, lime and pear on the nose, followed by a terrific combination of crisp citrus fruit and oaky, white fruit roundness. Elegant but fun, it’s a perfect food wine. Think spicy ethnic cuisine, grilled seafood, salads.
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Novy
2006 Syrah
Santa Lucia Highlands
Intensely peppery with cracked black and jalapeño evident this turns rich, dense and loamy in a pleasing way, ending with a chewy, tannic finish. Best from 2010 through 2016. Only 517 cases made.
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Urban Uco
2008 Malbec
Valle de Uco Mendoza Argentin
The 2008 Urban Uco Malbec was aged for 3 months in barrel.
A glass-coating opaque purple, it has a nose offering up spice box,
incense, and black cherry. Ripe and sweetly-fruited, it has intense flavors, excellent depth, and a lengthy finish. Drink it over the next 4 years.
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Allegrini
2004 Palazzo delle Torre
Veneto
Allegrini's Palazzo della Torre (70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 5% Sangiovese) has long been one of my favorite ripasso-style wines and the 2004 is another winner. It reveals a plump, juicy personality loaded with perfumed, jammy fruit, roasted coffee beans and new leather. Although it is absolutely irresistible today, a few additional months of bottle age should help soften the wine further. It is a gorgeous effort at this level and a terrific value.
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Matteo Correggia
2008 Roero Arneis
Piedmont
The 2008 Roero Arneis is an intensely mineral-driven offering laced with white peaches, flowers, almonds and smoke. This pure, crystalline Arneis offers remarkable focus and energy in a highly appealing style. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011.
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Pennywise
2008 Petite Sirah
California
This Petite Sirah blend is the collaboration of two lots from the heart of Lodi. With deep purple color, this wine has an exotic aroma of blackberries and smoky bacon which draws you further into the glass. The first sip shows you Petite Sirah's silky fruit forward flavors of black raspberry, strawberry, and candied blueberries. The second sip shows you the depth of this wine, with notes of tobacco leaf, French roast coffee, and blackberry compote smuggling even more fruit that shines throughout this blend. This is a brilliant berry explosion that holds its ground with round tannins, bacon nuances, and rich French oak. Winery notes.
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Santa Alicia
2008 Reserva Carmenere
Maipo Valley Chile
Delicate on the surface while firmly tannic underneath, this wine delivers fresh fruit that gains nuance from herbal scents of tea leaves and tobacco. For beef empanadas.
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Norman Vineyards
2006 Petite Sirah
Paso Robles
Ripe and jammy with cherry and blackcherry aromas, it has complex, spicy notes of pepper, licorice and molasses. The ultra-full body is voluptuous with berry and mocha flavors, finishing with silky tannins. Winery notes.
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La Posta
2008 Angel Paulucci Vineyard Malbec
Mendoza Argentina
Bright medium ruby. Ripe, slightly reduced aromas of plum and pepper. Sweet, silky and very ripe, with a distinctly chocolatey character. Not as complex as the Pizzella malbec but boasts sound vinosity and more obvious sweetness. Finishes with dusty, slightly drying tannins. This is from old, low-yielding vines in a warm site southeast of Agrelo, while the Angel Paulucci is from the cooler La Consulta area.
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Feudi di San Gregorio
2007 Primitivo Ognissole Estate
Puglia Italy
Medium-dark ruby. Bright, intensely vinous aromas of red berries, red cherry and flowers show an immensely appealing red fruit cocktail quality. Red cherry and redcurrant flavors put on weight in the glass, picking up a mineral tang and a seductive floral quality on the long, clean finish. This offers excellent energy and verve, and strikes me as the best-ever primitivo made by Feudi from their Ognissole estate in Puglia.
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Errazuriz
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard
Casablanca Valley Chile
Deep red. Pungent aromas of redcurrant, cherry pit, licorice, cedar and tobacco: this is textbook cabernet. Juicy and lively, with very good sweetness of fruit and noteworthy sappiness and clarity. Harmonious and gently spicy, finishing with sweet tannins and lingering smokiness.
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Three Wine
2008 Petite Sirah
Contra Costa County
The Petite Sirah is sourced from a mature vineyard in Contra Costa County with an extremely sandy-loam soil (similar to beach sand). Due to this soil type and moderate growing conditions, the vineyard produces low yields with intense fruit flavors. This wine showcases deep blackberry fruit with a big tannin framework. For those of us who love Petite Sirah, this one will not disappoint. Winery notes.
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St. Clement Winery
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
This classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon shows aromas of blackcherry, bittersweet chocolate, vanilla, clove and a hint of black pepper. The palate is dense and structured, offering layers of cherry cola, black currants, roasted coffee and a finish of cocoa powder. The lots are kept separate throughout harvest and fermentation. After nineteen months in French oak (57 percent new), winemaker Danielle Cyrot assembles the final blend.
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Sierra Cantabria
2005 Tempranillo Crianza
Rioja Spain
Saturated ruby. More powerful than the '04 on the nose, offering deep cherry preserve and plum scents. Displays zestier red fruits on the palate, which is firmed by fine-grained tannins. A suave mineral quality arrives with air, adding energy to the dark fruit qualities. The nicely focused finish is spicy and long.
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Thorne Clarke
2006 Shotfire Shiraz
Barossa Valley
Aims for refinement and achieves a supple balance of ripe plum and currant fruit against a range of sweet spices and fine tannins. Lingers gently and expressively. A Smart Buys Designation.
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Bennett Lane
2007 Maximus White
Napa Valley
Fragrant peach blossom, honeysuckle and citrus notes are juicy and refreshing, with a pleasantly fleshy texture and a long, intense finish. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Muscat. Drink now.
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BenMarco
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza Argentina
The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 10% Merlot and was aged for 8 months in a mix of new French oak and second use American oak. Purple-colored, it reveals an excellent nose of cedar, spice box, cassis, and violets. Medium-bodied, on the palate it has plenty of sweet fruit and ripe tannin but is in need of a bit more depth and concentration. Drink it over the next 6 years. Jay Miller.
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Feudo Arancio
2008 Nero d'Avola
Sicily Italy
Medium garnet color. Warm strawberry and raspberry aromas with notes of stewed tea and forest floor. Full body with medium to high acidity. Medium level of soft tannins. Medium to long finish.
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Vina Cobos Felino
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza Argentina
The purple-colored 2007 Felino Cabernet Sauvignon offers up spicy black currants and blackberry. Smooth-textured and layered, it has excellent balance and a lengthy, pure finish. It’s hard to think of a better value in Cabernet Sauvignon. Jay Miller.
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Branko
2007 Pinot Grigio
Collio Italy
Subtle cooked apple, fresh pineapple and minerals. Medium- to full-bodied, with clean acidity and a flavorful finish. Almost as good as the 2006. Drink now. Only 700 cases made.
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Botani
2009 Dry Moscatel
Malaga, Andalucia, Spain
The 2009 Botani was sourced from organically farmed 70-year-old Moscatel de Alejandria vines producing tiny yields. Thirty percent of the wine was barrel-fermented in neutral French oak, the rest in stainless steel. Medium straw-colored with a green tint, it displays a nose of mineral, spring flowers, acacia, and a hint of tropical aromas. The 2009 vintage has produced a wine with extra density and concentration. Although the aromatics suggest sweetness, the wine is dry but very fruity, refreshing, and exceptionally long. It is an outstanding value that over-delivers in a big way.
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Stags' Leap Winery
2006 Merlot
Napa Valley
Aromatics of ripe red cherry and sweet strawberry jam lead to flavors of rich red fruit, toasted almonds, dried thyme, and rosemary with a hint of black truffles. The firm tannic structure holds the melody of flavors together as a full-bodied mid palate carries through to a long finish complete with hints of licorice, black chocolate and orange peel.
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Verget
2006 Pouilly Fuisse Vers Asnieres
Burgundy
Pale gold. Sharply focused lemon and lime aromas gain depth with air, slowly taking a turn to peach and melon. Deeply concentrated citrus and orchard fruit flavors pack a serious punch, gaining sweetness on the close while maintaining focus. A weighty, powerful style, but in no way heavy or musclebound.
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Stinger
2009 Chardonnay
Carneros
Bright, fresh and clean tropical fruit flavors of which one would expect from good Carneros juice, only this one is very inexpensive. This is easily a crowd pleaser for your next home party or for that matter just a great house Chardonnay.
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Chateau Ollieux Romanis
2007 Red Blend
Corbieres
A blend of Carignan, Syrah, Grenacheand Mourvèdre. Intense and rich in tone, with a nose of blackcurrant and cherry. The palate is dominated by concentrated notes of fruit, and is round and full-bodied. Winery notes.
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Domaine du Tariquet
2009 Sauvignon
VDP Cotes de Gascogne
The innovative “bottling to order” at Domaine du Tariquet guarantees consistent quality and freshness. This 100% Sauvignon Blanc displays intense floral notes, as well as great minerality. Its beautiful texture will be the perfect accompaniment to any fish or seafood dishes. Winery notes.
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Morgenhof Estate
2004 Brut Reserve
Stellenbosch South Africa
Not to mention getting four stars in John Platter Wine Guide 2007.
This Methode Cap Classique has a nose that is a combination of biscuits, granny smith apples, peaches and orange blossom flavors. The palate has a good acidity which adds to a lot of freshness with undertones of peaches and citrus, quite full-bodied in style with a long finish. Winery notes.
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Tallulah
2005 Syrah
Del Rio Vineyard Oregon
The top wine of this trio is the 2005 Syrah from Oregon’s Del Rio Vineyard. An elegant, French-styled effort, it reveals subtle notes of crushed pepper, smoke, and restrained raspberry as well as blueberry characteristics. This dark plum-hued Syrah is built on elegance and restraint offered in a medium-bodied, decidedly European style. However, there is no shortage of flavor, and the wine has plenty of punch (15% alcohol). It should drink nicely for 5-6 years.
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Domaine Rosier
2007 Brut
Blanquette de Limoux
Made in the traditional Champage Methode, this Brut is the perfect sparkler to have around the house to share with family and friends. Let's call it the perfect aperitif. The nose is very floral and it's full of flavor in the mouth with a fine mousse. There's absolutely nothing not to like about this party sparkler. Enjoy!
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Stags' Leap Wine Cellars
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Napa Valley
This wine makes an outstanding first impression. Aromas of fresh clover, passion fruit and cling peaches mingle with hints of jasmine in the nose. On the palate, fresh fruit flavors of passion fruit, grapefruit, and nectarine are balanced by subtle notes of white pepper and honeysuckle. A small amount of Semillon adds floral top notes while more than six months of aging sur lies smoothes out the blend. Winery notes.
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Decero
2008 Malbec
Remolinos Vineyard Mendoza Argentina
Remolinos is a new vineyard at 3,500 feet in Agrelo, where the vines' orientation allows them to catch the morning sun. This malbec is pure in its varietal expression, with full flavors of red cherries and violets. Its youth shows in nervous acidity that makes the tannins feel kinetic. For roast duck.
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Finca Allende
2004 Allende
Rioja
The 2004 Allende, a 100% Tempranillo cuvee, was barrel fermented in a mix of new and used French oak, remained in barrel for 13 months, and was bottled unfiltered. The wine is inky purple-colored and has a superb nose of pain grille, mineral, violets, cranberry, and blueberry. The youthful palate reveals layers of fruit, ripe tannin, and excellent balance. The wine merits another 3-4 years of bottle age and should drink well through 2020. Kudos to Finca Allende for a magnificent set of 2004 Riojas!
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Bodegas Atteca
2007 Atteca
Calatayud Spain
100% garnacha, from vines reportedly 80 to 120 years of age) Inky purple. Ripe boysenberry and blueberry on the nose, with licorice and graphite adding complexity. Juicy dark berry preserve flavors show palate-saturating depth and impressive clarity, picking up smoky minerals with air. Energetic finishing notes of blackberry skin and candied licorice linger with impressive tenacity. According to the importer, the yield for this wine, made from vines reportedly 80 to 120 years of age, was less than one ton per hectare.
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D'Arenberg
2007 The Hermit Crab Marsanne & Viognier
McLaren Vale
The 2007 The Hermit Crab is a blend of 58% Viognier and 42% Marsanne. It received a dollop of oak for a rounder texture. The alluring aromatics offer floral notes, candle wax, and pit fruits. Smooth-textured and ripe, the wine also has excellent depth and length. Enjoy it over the next 1-2 years.
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Perez Cruz
2008 Malbec Reserva Limited Edition COT
Maipo Valley Chile
Inky ruby. Pungent aromas and flavors of dark berries, licorice, bitter chocolate and spicecake. Juicy, fruit-driven and nicely structured, with a pliant texture, building sweetness and very good depth to the cassis and bitter cherry flavors. Finishes with lingering fruit and sweet tannins. A suave midweight that offers impressive depth and very good energy.
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Martino Biscardo
2007 Valpolicella Ripasso
Veneto Italy
After fermentation in stainless steel, the final step for Ripasso is obtained when the base wine is re-passed or in Italian: “Ripassando” the newly fermented juice on the skins of the Amarone wine. Finally 12 months in oak adds suppleness to the fig-infused, brambly finish. This is a bold, dense ruby-colored wine with terrific plum, fig, black cherry, chocolate, and earth-like characteristics. Importer notes.
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Lamadrid
2007 Single Vineyard Bonarda Reserva
Argentina
Very ripe, with almost gushing layers of plum sauce, dark licorice, fig paste and mulled boysenberry fruit. Sweet fruit pumps through on the broad, toasty finish. For fans of the style. Drink now. Only 500 cases made.
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Veramonte
2009 Sauvignon Blanc Reserva
Casablanca Valley Chile
Pale yellow. High-pitched, spicy aromas of lime zest, grapefruit and talc, with a suave floral overtone. Juicy, sharply focused citrus and mineral flavors expand and gain depth in the middle palate, picking up a juicy pear quality. The talc note returns on the finish, which is refreshingly nervy and dry.
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Tabali
2008 Reserva Especial Chardonnay
Lamari Valley Chile
The 2008 Chardonnay Reserva Especial shows off the potential for Chardonnay in Limari. It delivers Cote de Beaune like aromatics of mineral, toast, white fruits, and hazel nut. Elegant, intense, with lively natural acidity, this lengthy effort may well evolve for 1-2 years and can be enjoyed through 2014.
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Mapema
2009 Sauvignon Blanc
Argentina
There is little Sauvignon Blanc coming out of Argentina but Mapema’s 2009 Sauvignon Blanc is a fine one by any standard. The wine was aged predominantly in stainless steel but 10% of the wine was aged in new French oak for 3 months. It offers up an excellent bouquet of fresh herbs, citrus, and floral aromas leading to a spicy, savory, concentrated Sauvignon with impeccable balance and plenty of length. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. Jay Miller.
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Domaine Beau Mistral
2007 Cotes du Rhone Rasteau Vieilles Vignes
Southern Rhone Valley
The dense ruby/purple-hued 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Vieilles Vignes exhibits a big, sweet nose of melted chocolate, damp forest floor, black cherry jam, and black currants. Full-bodied, broad, powerful, and muscular with sweet tannin, this chewy wine's impression is one of sumptuous texture as well as amazing depth. Consume it over the next 10-15 years.
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Fairview
2007 La Beryl Blanc Paarl
Coastal Region South Africa
A round and forward style, with richly textured papaya, pineapple and creamed peach flavors that linger on the lush, sweet finish. For the hedonist crowd. Drink now through 2010. Only 200 cases made. (500 ml)
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Wagtail
2007 Shiraz
Barossa Valley
Deep red/purple. An enticing bouquet of berries, plum, spice, hints of chocolate and toasty oak. Ripe, dark cherry and plum on the palate, a mouth-filling wine with excellent length. Winery notes
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Goulart Clasico
2009 Malbec
Mendoza Argentina
From 20- to 40-year-old vines in a parcel that dates back to the 1920s) Bright, deep red. Subtle aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, tobacco and flowers, with hints of pepper and mint. Supple and easygoing, with good texture and restrained sweetness to its red fruit flavors. Nicely pliant malbec.
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Hogue Genesis
2007 Syrah
Columbia Valley
Smooth and velvety, delivering a warm, inviting mouthful of blueberry, plum, coffee and spice flavors that linger against refined tannins. Drink now through 2015
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Chateau St. Jean
2008 Fume Blanc
Sonoma County
Intense smoke and honeysuckle aromatics mingle well together, leading to crisp and refreshing lemon, tangerine and yellow apple flavors on a medium body, with good acidity. The smoke flavors persist on the finish.
Drink now.
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Turn 4 by Bennett Lane
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
This Napa Valley Cabernet opens with intense aromas of black fruit, bright cherry, & minerals. Background notes of cedar, sage and violets add to the complexity of the wine. On the palate the wine has good weight, with flavors of dark cherry, cocoa, and plums. The tannins are velvety and approachable, leading to a long, elegant, fruit driven finish.
Winery notes.
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Tenuta Curezza
2008 Nerosso
Puglia
Fleshy and rich. Appealing for its upfront Cherry, plum and black fruit flavors. Attractive and accessible with long, smooth tannins.
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Santadi
2007 Carignano del Sulcis Grotta Rossa
Sardinia
From Carignano grown in a mixture of clay, sand and limestone, this wine is aged in cement vats prior to bottling, so there's no oak to get in the way of the scents of wild thyme, coastal breezes and black, earthy fruit. It's a savory, mouthwatering red, lasting on elegant minerality.
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Unique
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Loire Valley
This is classic Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc with the quality of Sancerre at a New Zealand price tag. Quaffable, sprightly, and bright, this wine jumps around your tongue like a fiddler's bow on strings. Importer's notes.
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Marco Felluga
2008 Molamata
Collio
Golden yellow in color. When young the wine is characterized by an elegant bouquet of exotic fruits. Over time, as the wine evolves, it develops a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of vanilla. The wine is fresh and round with a warm, prolonged finish. Importer's notes.
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De Martino
2008 Cabernet-Malbec
Maipo Valley Chile
Starts off with an enticing bouquet of black cherry and other spicy black fruit. A very nice texture on the palate with a smooth, lengthy finish. Highly enjoyable. Made with certified organic grapes too.
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Errazuriz
2009 Sauvignon Blanc Estate
Casablanca Valley
Scents of herbs and fresh-cut grass appear in the forefront, while flavors of tart white fruit deepen and linger in the background. This is juicy and full of vitality, a sauvignon made for cevidche.
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La Caplana
2009 Gavi di Gavi
Piedmont Italy
La Caplana’s Gavi is a straw yellow with green reflexes. At the olfactory exam it shows intense fragrances ranging from apple to the typical scents of white flowers. The palate is fresh but at the same time rich in structure and long persistence. Importer notes.
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Joseph Drouhin
2008 Chablis
Burgundy
A dry and fruity wine, easy to drink. Its color is pale gold with greenish hues. Very fresh aromas reminiscent of citrus (lemon or grapefruit); small pleasant touches of fern or coriander are found as well. On the palate, dry and fruity, with mineral notes. Pleasant and long aftertaste. Importer notes.
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Verget
2006 Macon Bussieres VV du Clos
Burgundy
Bright gold. Exotic, expansive bouquet of lemon, quince and ginger, along with a suave dusting of minerals. Tightly wound and spicy, with sharply focused citrus and orchard fruit flavors joined by riper melon and pear on the finish. Boasts an impression combination of depth and clarity, and possesses the balance to age.
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Thomas Henry
2007 Meritage
Sonoma County
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Sourced from the famed Chalk Hill, and Alexander Valley Appellations in Sonoma County, bringing longer grape maturity period, and therefore packs richer dark berry flavors. A Bordeaux style wine, with plenty of dark fruit and savory flavors. Aromatics of Casis, plum, and cherry. Wonderful with grilled meats, and vegetables. Winery notes.
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Charles Cimicky
2007 Trumps Shiraz
Barossa Valley
Offers terrific presence. Supple in texture, this vibrates with black cherry, raspberry, red plum and subtle spice flavors, hinting at white pepper as the finish sails on and on. Drink now through 2017.
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Babich
2009 Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough New Zealand
On the nose some tropical fruits and green apple including the Kiwi-typical grapefruit. The palate is exuberant and intense -fruit salad, nettles and fresh herbs; at the end nice lime/citrus and mineral notes. A powerful and lengthy Sauvignon. Winery notes.
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Ascheri
2008 Arneis
Piedmont Italy
This Cristina Ascheri Arneis emitted a honeyed perfumed aroma, leading into a wine of minimal acidity, considerable body, and a long penetrating finish – the same descriptions one readily associates with my beloved Viognier. The almond-dominated nutty note ultimately declared its Italian stock, but a look at the map of Europe reminds that Piedmont is not far from the Rhône anyway. Importers notes.
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Jinks Creek Winery
2005 Shiraz
Longford Gippsland Victoria Australia
Deep, glass-staining ruby. Hugely aromatic nose displays suave red and dark berries, Asian spices, tapenade and smoky bacon; this could pass for a northern Rhone wine. Energetic black raspberry and blueberry flavors deliver solid punch but are surprisingly lithe, carrying no fat or excess ripeness. Turns brighter on the finish, leaving behind tangy strawberry and graphite flavors. Graceful and vibrant wine.
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Macrostie
2007 Chardonnay
Carneros
Here is a deep and very nicely balanced Chardonnay that hits all the right varietal and winemaking markers without resorting to runaway ripeness, overdone oak or any enological tricks. Its very rich and well-composed flavors feature lots of energetic apple-like fruit juxtaposed with complementary touches of vanilla and spice, and its overall impression of depth and structural firmness argue for better to come if allowed a few years of cellar time.
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Novelty Hill
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley
A deep, concentrated wine with fresh blackberry, dark cherry and red currant. Expressive and balanced, with dark fruit flavors persisting across a long, generous finish. Winery notes.
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Viticcio
2006 Chianti Classico
Tuscany
Exhibits lots of blackberry and vanilla character on the nose, with hints of flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, crisp finish. A beautiful wine. Best after 2011. A Smart Buys Designation.
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Domaine Bila-Haut
2008 Occultum Lapidem
Cotes du Roussillon Villages
Deep, dark and seductive red. Sumptuous ripe red fruits are enveloped by a twang of provençale herbs and spice. Scents of coffee and liquorice dominate the attack. The wine is very concentrate and ripe with warm fruit through the mid palate. The finish is long and rich in tannin. This wine can be kept for 5-6 years. Importer's notes.
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Uccelliera
2007 Rosso di Montalcino
Tuscany
A clean, fruity red, with strawberry, raspberry and a hint of creamy mineral. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh, fruity finish. Well-balanced and delicious. Drink now.
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Peirano Estate
2007 "Six Clones" Merlot
Lodi
Aromas of rich ripe cherries, blackberries with hints of toast, and vanilla coalesce into a single sensation of olfactory bliss. The mouth is filled with an array of flavors, including cherry, plum, cranapple, sweet raspberries and strawberries with lingering hints of cocoa and cinnamon, while supple tannins leave a pleasing finish. Each juicy sip is more comforting than the last always leaving the palate to want more. Winery notes.
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Stanley Lambert
Non Vintage Choc-a-Bloc
South Australia
Choc-a-Bloc is a luscious dessert wine, made using a fortified Australian Tawny wine and seeping it with chocolate. A pleasant accompaniment with sweets or coffee. It's really dessert in itself. Great to sip on with friends. Chocoholics beware. Winery notes.
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Maso Canali
2008 Pinot Grigio
Trentino Italy
Maso Canali Pinot Grigio has a brilliant golden color with aromas of tropical fruit and apricot. This wine is well-balanced with ripe flavors of apple and pear, leading into a clean finish. Winemaker's notes.
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Aia Vecchia
2006 Lagone
Tuscany
Has sweet berry and fresh herbs on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Tight now, but shows excellent potential. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best after 2010.
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Marti Fabra
2003 Seleccio Vinyes Velles
Costa Brava Spain
The wine was aged 18 months in French oak prior to being bottled unfined and unfiltered. A great expression of the appellation, it reveals terrific minerality along with wonderfully projected, even flamboyant sweet red and black fruits interwoven with notions of flowers and graphite. Deep purple-hued, rich, full-bodied, stunningly pure, and well-textured, this beauty can be drunk over the next 10-12 years.
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La Posta Cocina
2009 Blanco de Blancos
Argentina
The unoaked 2009 Cocina Blanco de Blancos is an intriguing blend of 70% Chardonnay, 15% Torrontes, and 15% Sauvignon Blanc. It exhibits an excellent bouquet of mineral, citrus, and lemon meringue leading to a medium-bodied, dry, intensely flavored, ripe wine that would be a fine match for a crab cake. Jay Miller.
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Terlato & Chapoutier
2007 Shiraz-Viognier
Victoria Australia
This joint-venture has been turning out consistently charming, balanced Shiraz over the past few vintages. The 2007 is simultaneously peppery-spicy, floral-perfumed and meaty-savory. It's medium-bodied, with a lovely plump softness to its mouthfeel, yet not without spine. Drink it over the next 5-8 years.
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Celler Can Blau
2007 Can Blau Red
Monsant Spain
(A blend of carinena, syrah and garnacha) Dark purple. Sexy aromas of blackberry, blueberry, Asian spices and smoked meat. Supple and open-knit, with sweet dark berry preserve flavors, velvety texture and good mineral bite. Manages to be both nervy and concentrated, with very good finishing clarity and cut. Leaves strong blue fruit notes behind and repeats the spicy quality.
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Chateau Teyssier
2006 Bordeaux Blend
St. Emilion
The 2006 is an outstanding success as well as a sleeper of the vintage. Its dark ruby color is accompanied by plenty of black fruit, licorice, earth, and spice characteristics. It should drink nicely for 8-10 years.
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Freemark Abbey
2007 Merlot
Napa Valley
Dark ruby in color, the wine has intense Bing cherry aromas, with blackberries, plums, slight juniper berry and forest floor. There is a childhood memory of aromas of warm cherry Jello and dark chocolate... very inviting. The oak is well-integrated with nuances of spice and aromatic cedar. The flavors of black cherry, Santa Rosa plum and Earl Grey tea lead into cinnamon, with a hint of cardamom and vanilla on the finish. There is a nice balance of acidity and richness with firm tannin structure.
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Bouchaine
2007 Chardonnay
Carneros
It's a true expression of Chardonnay - bright, citrusy flavors graced with only the merest hint of oak. Its fruit flavors, bright acidity, notable texture (a hallmark characteristic of Carneros Chardonnay), and relentless finish harmonize in an elegant, stylish wine. Straw gold in color, it dances in the glass like sunlight. Winery notes.
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Errazuriz
2008 Single Vineyard Carmenere
Aconcagua Valley
Inky ruby. Roasted cherry, plum, tobacco, licorice and dried flowers on the intriguingly Bordeaux-like nose and palate. Sweet and juicy, with precise flavor definition and lift. Finishes with supple, broad tannins and very good spicy length. Shows a lot of personality, not to mention impressive balance and clarity.
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d'Arenberg
2006 The Cadenzia
McLaren Vale
The Shiraz portion of The Cadenzia GSM comes from the Laughing Magpie selection. Purple-colored, it reveals an already complex aromatic array of cedar, mineral, underbrush, espresso, black cherry, and blueberry. Layered and succulent on the palate, it has loads of fruit, plenty of spice, and excellent length. Give it 2-3 years to round out and drink it from 2011 to 2021.
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O. Fournier
2007 Urban Ribera
Ribera del Duero
The 2007 Urban Ribera is a strong candidate for the best new release Ribera del Duero under $25. Made from 100% Tinta del Pais (Tempranillo), the wine spent four months in French oak. Purple-colored, it offers up a fragrant bouquet of scorched earth, violets, and black cherry that leaps from the glass. Smooth-textured and suave on the palate, it has loads of succulent black fruit, silky tannins, excellent depth and grip, and a juicy finish. Drink this tasty effort over the next four years.
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Lustau
nv Pedro Ximenez San Emilio Cream Sherry
Jerez Spain
With piercing aromas of raisin pudding, molasses and spice, this rolls out the welcome mat and more. Luscious is probably as tame as you can put it; this is a ribald sweet wine with acidic backbone and hugely intense flavors of baked brown sugar, cinnamon cake and molasses. Powerful but still racy due to bracing acidity. About as good as it gets with PX.
| Sale Price: $24.99 |
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| Sarasota 941-926-WINE (9463) |
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