Made from grapes grown in the picturesque Douro Valley, this Ruby Port offers alluring aromas and flavours of candied cherry and strawberry jam. A perfect after-dinner indulgence with fruit pie or cheesecake, or serve with strong cheeses. As this Port is aged for at least four years in barrel, there will be no sediment and, therefore, will not require decanting. Will drink well for several weeks after opened.

This wine won a Gold Medal for Best Dry Riesling at the 2008 Ontario Wine Awards. Made from grapes grown exclusively in Château des Charmes' vineyards, this is a dry, crisp Riesling with zingy grapefruit, pear and lemon-lime notes, and a medium-long finish. Exceptional for food pairing, this will match well to lemon-herbed chicken, seafood dishes, or a seasonal vegetable stir-fry.

277228    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95     

A Gold Medal winner at the Ottawa Wine and Food Show 2007, this is a big, buttery Chardonnay brimming with vanilla spice, baked apple and some mango notes on the long, silky finish. There's enough structure here to allow 3-4 years in cellar, though it's delicious now with grilled fish, or a green salad with mandarin oranges and slivered almonds.

069609    (XD)            750 mL    $20.95     

The 'i baci' series (Italian for 'the kisses') features original paintings by Montreal-based artist, Niko. This luscious Vidal Icewine displays aromas and flavours of peach preserves, honey and sun-dried mango. Serve it chilled as a digestif along with a selection of fresh fruits.

The 2007 is a blend of Pinot Noir (that spent only 48 hours on its skin) plus a touch of Riesling and Chardonnay for aromatics and body.

TASTING NOTE: Very pale salmon-pink colour. Pretty aromas of delicate cherry, rosehip, red pepper jelly and cranberry dominate. Dry with a very nice mouthfeel supported by soft acids. This wine is a fine match for a variety of foods, including lobster salad, smoked salmon with capers, grilled calamari or pulled-pork sandwiches. (VINTAGES panel, April 2008) 

039974    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95     

Henry of Pelham was blessed with an exceptional harvest in 2007, with each of their individual grape varieties meeting or exceeding expectations. Cabernet Sauvignon, the last variety picked, is showcased here in this fresh, crisp rosé. Floral and berry-fruit aromas emerge from the glass while flavours of cherry, rhubarb and lemon zest dance on the palate. This will make a lovely partner to grilled chicken or summer salads.

Under the Ladybug name, Malivoire consistently crafts one of Ontario's most expressive and classy rosés. The 2007 vintage is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Gamay, Merlot and a dollop of Pinot Noir. This refreshing, brightly fruity wine is delicious with prosciutto rolled in arugula leaves topped with black pepper, extra virgin olive oil and a shave of Parmigiano Reggiano, or even deli-style hot dogs with diced onion, Dijon mustard, and coarsely chopped tomato on a sesame-seed bun.

559088    (D)            750 mL    $16.00     

Winemaker Austin Hope does double-duty for his family's Treana winery and their second label, Liberty School. He crafted this Chardonnay in an attractive, fruit-forward style featuring loads of ripe apple and peach, plus butterscotch and vanilla. Enjoy this medium full-bodied wine with crab cakes or veal cutlets with lemon and capers.

960120    (D)            750 mL    $18.95   

'Mossback' is old American slang for farmer. This wine is named in tribute to the farmers in the Russian River Valley who supply owner JL Giguiere with the exceptional fruit to make this Chardonnay. Made in an unoaked style, Giguiere is aiming to emulate Chablis. He achieves this with a fruitiness that is expertly balanced by a seam of acidity and a fresh minerality on the finish. Match it to poached salmon with a light lemon sauce.

Retired race car driver Mario Andretti turned to winemaking after his career in the fast lane ended. He created the Andretti Selections series to release wines that are ripe, round and fruity crowd-pleasers. Enjoy this Cabernet with gourmet hamburgers or sausages while you watch the races on Speed TV.

Before turning to winemaking, Fess Parker was a popular actor best known as TV's Daniel Boone and as the father in Disney's Old Yeller.

TASTING NOTE: Supple yet a bit racy, with blackberry and smoky oak aromas leading to layered and appealingly rustic huckleberry, licorice and beef flavors that fan out on the finish. Drink now through 2011. Score - 89. (Tim Fish, www.winespectator.com, Feb. 29, 2008) 

942136    (XD)            750 mL    $20.95   

The fruit for this wine was sourced from vineyards throughout Paso Robles. Its flavours of mulberry and blueberry are nicely complemented by undertones of exotic spice and cigar tobacco. The well-integrated tannins, that extend through the long finish, are softened by a dollop of Viognier. Try with slow-cooked ribs or brisket.

942383    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   

This crowd-pleasing, 'round-the-barbecue Cabernet is loaded with plum and chocolate flavours and aromas. The fruit and alcohol are well-aligned in this Cab, giving it the right stuff for grilled steaks or hamburgers.

Winemaking in Mexico is really gathering momentum. Using grapes sourced from vineyards along the Baja California peninsula, L.A. Cetto's Chenin Blanc is a ripe and exuberant effort displaying tropical fruit aromas, and flavours of lemon peel, guava and green apple. Enjoy this on its own as a refreshing aperitif or serve it with citrus-seasoned chicken enchiladas.

683979    (D)            750 mL    $9.95   

This Zinfandel is a value version of the California interpretation. Aged for half a year in new oak and an additional six months in bottle prior to release, this delicious red showcases aromas and flavours of plum, raspberry and vanilla. Perfect with steaks hot off the barbecue, gourmet hamburgers or grilled portobello mushrooms.

405605    (D)            750 mL    $10.95   

True Bonarda is only grown in northern Italy. Argentinian Bonarda, the provenance of which is still a matter of debate, is now one of the two most widely planted grapes in the country. Internationally, Bonarda wines are quickly growing in popularity. Finca el Retiro's version is rich on the palate and as juicy as summer fruit.

New at VINTAGES

LUIGI BOSCA SINGLE VINEYARD MALBEC  2004
Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza  

TASTING NOTE: Full, chewy, doughy, spicy and intensely fruity. This single-vineyard Malbec offers a little bit of everything, and all in balanced, measured doses. The cherry and blackberry fruit is bold but pure, while chocolate comes in to darken things up. A textbook steak and potatoes wine with a bit of complexity, but mostly it's about easygoing fun. Score - 92. (Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast, Oct. 2007) 

074922    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   

New at VINTAGES

ANAKENA ONA SAUVIGNON BLANC  2006
Casablanca Valley  

TASTING NOTE: Pale straw. Intensely perfumed, suave bouquet of tangerine, pear, quince, quinine and mint. Juicy citrus fruit and herbal flavors are firmed by dusty minerals, picking up an anise quality with air. Finishes dry and firm, with excellent clarity and persistence. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, March/April 2008) 

059501    (XD)            750 mL    $16.95   

New at VINTAGES

LA PLAYA BLOCK SELECTION RESERVE CHARDONNAY  2007
Limari Valley, Reserve Block No. 23

Hand-picked from a single block in the Limari Valley, this Chard is consistently a superb value. Its bouquet offers pineapple, peach and citrus notes, with ripe tropical fruit flavours on the palate and a smooth, pleasing finish. Perfect for sipping while lounging on the deck with a good book and a bowl of fresh fruit.

Each wine in Cono Sur's Visión series is sourced from a plot of land personally chosen by the winemaker, with the aim of producing a wine with individual character. The 2007 Carmenere is an intense purple colour in the glass, offering aromas of black cherry, mocha and hazelnuts. Richly textured with dark berry fruit flavours and ripe tannins, it would make a fine partner to blackened Cajun steak.

059360    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   

Made from grapes grown in the renowned Colchagua Valley, this elegant Pinot Noir displays lovely cherry, strawberry and raspberry notes. Silky with fine, soft tannins, this is rounder than some Pinots and will nicely complement smoked salmon or avocado salad.

689992    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   

New at VINTAGES

VIÑA LA ROSA DON RECA CABERNET SAUVIGNON  2006
Cachapoal Valley, Limited Release 

The Don Reca range produces the rarest and most celebrated wines of Viña La Rosa. Blended with 15% Merlot, the 2006 Cab Sauv offers aromas of cherry and mint leaf, with blueberry, cassis and chocolate in velvety combination on the palate. This can be cellared for up to 3-4 years, or enjoy it now with rare steak or spicy beef fajitas.

063792    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

Hunter Valley is one of the finest regions in Australia, if not the world, for single-variety Semillon. Never oak aged, Penmara's Reserve Semillon displays aromas and flavours of green apple, pear, and a remarkable toastiness that many mistakenly think is the result of wood contact. Enjoy tonight with flavourful seafood dishes or cellar 3-5+ years.

058644    (D)            750 mL    $14.95   

CHAIN OF PONDS THE LEDGE SHIRAZ  2003
Adelaide Hills/McLaren Vale, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Blended from Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale Shiraz, this is a very user friendly red wine. Liqueury blackberry oozing richly from the aromas - all pure, succulent and quite distinct. Red cherries, a hint of earthiness - all fresh, vibrant and upfront. Some sweet oak as well. A delightful easy drinking ... red full of luscious black fruits and imparting a velvety and seamless mouthfeel with fine tannins on the finish. Try this with lamb roast. Drink to 2015. Score - 92. (Paul Ippolito, www.webwombat.com.au/lifestyle)

059899    (D)            750 mL    $27.95   

A deep red-purple colour in the glass, this Cab offers up aromas of blackberry, currant, earth and cedar. More flavours emerge on the palate, including ripe raspberry, chocolate, and mint notes. The smooth but hearty tannins make this an ideal partner for pepper steak or bison burgers.

New at VINTAGES

CORIOLE REDSTONE SHIRAZ  2005
McLaren Vale, South Australia  

TASTING NOTE: Ripe juicy berry fruit, a little mint, black pepper, dark chocolate and some light coconut oak. On the palate medium to full bodied with mouth filling berry and cherry fruit, dark chocolate, a few dried herbs and a bit of coconutty oak in support. The tannins are grainy (but reasonably soft) and run on to the finish. It all ticks along very nicely. Score - 90. (Gary Walsh, www.winorama.com.au, Nov. 17, 2007) 

059915    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   

Known in Australia as 'Gamekeeper's Reserve', this Shiraz/Grenache blend also contains a small amount of Touriga Nacional which adds a touch of floral spice. Earthy with red-berry fruit on the nose, the palate is big, rich and peppery with raspberry and strawberry flavours and the telltale spicy finish. This wine can be cellared for 2-3 years or enjoyed on barbecue night with chorizo sausages.

024117    (XD)            750 mL    $14.95   

A warm and jammy fruit Cabernet that is ripe, round, full-bodied and long-finishing. An ideal choice for barbecued back ribs or bison burgers. Made with certified organically grown grapes, our Quality Assurance laboratory has determined that this wine contains 6 mg/L of free sulphur.

065540    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   

Jancis Robinson MW says this about Saint-Véran: " ... I very rarely encounter a disappointing St-Véran. Is this the most reliable white burgundy appellation of all?" (Nov. 14, 2006) The wines here are much like those from neighbouring Pouilly-Fuissé but significantly less expensive. This is Burgundian Chardonnay par excellence: sunny, fruity, with lots of freshness and body. Bring on the summer!

042804    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

New at VINTAGES

VIGNOBLE BRISEBARRE VOUVRAY SEC  2005
AC  

It is often said that Vouvray is Chenin Blanc and Chenin Blanc is Vouvray. Producers in Vouvray are always pursuing the pure fruit expression, so if you were to set up a cooperage in Vouvray to make barrels you would go broke pretty quickly. Brisebarre's dry version features aromas of pear, citrus, candle wax and grapefruit. Dry and quite crisp, this wine will reward 4+ years in a cellar. It may be enjoyed tonight with lemon- and rosemary-stuffed grilled whole salmon.

715185    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

DOMAINE MARC ROY GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN VIEILLES VIGNES  2005
AC  

TASTING NOTE: This is distinctly riper than its '04 counterpart with a deft touch of wood framing the dark berry fruit and warm earth aromas that lead to rich, full, sweet and firm flavors that offer good detail on the sappy, persistent and slightly austere finish that definitely displays old vine depth of extract. This is not a big wine but I like the focus and finishing intensity. Drink 2011+. Score - 88. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Jan. 1, 2007) 

070185    (XD)            750 mL    $54.95   

Pic Saint-Loup is one of the Languedoc's most exciting areas without its own appellation. Still part of the larger Côteaux du Languedoc AC, Pic Saint-Loup is filled with dynamic producers doing wondrous things with old vines Syrah and Grenache. This wine is a prime example. Loaded with black cherry, garrigue and perfectly configured wood tones, this full-bodied, long-finishing wine will reward
2-4 years in a cellar, or match it tonight to braised beef or roast pork dishes.

Named in homage to Thoreau, the Walden 2006 is a blend of Carignan and Grenache. Displaying an attractive bouquet of blackberry, raspberry and black pepper, it is fresh and inviting on the palate with berry flavours and spicy herbal notes, and a long finish. This is the perfect wine to serve at your summer evening wine and cheese party, with a selection of softer French cheeses.

070334    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   

La Causse is a blend of 71% Malbec, 19% Merlot and 10% Tannat. A wine such as this proves that Argentina does not have a stranglehold on Malbec. Château de Chambert finds ways to bring forth its vibrant earthy fruitiness while still maintaining Cahors' structure. They add Merlot to fill in the fruit and the Tannat for structure and colour. This wine is still young and is a good candidate for 2-5 years in a cellar or pair it tonight with lamb chops or game meats such as bison steak.

070011    (XD)            750 mL    $12.95   

Tavel produces some of the richest, yet driest, rosés on the market. They work beautifully as sippers and are quite adaptable to a variety of foods such as grilled chicken, seafood salads, bouillabaisse or pork tenderloin. The Perrin 2007 vintage is a lovely blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault.

680801    (XD)            750 mL    $21.95   

New at VINTAGES

GUSTAV ADOLF SCHMITT RIESLING SPÄTLESE  2006
QmP, Niersteiner Auflangen, Estate Btld.  

Gustav Adolph Schmidt is a centuries-old property that produces some of the most striking Rieslings to come out of the vineyards surrounding the town of Nierstein. This Spätlese features aromas of orange marmalade, peach compote and citrus. Medium in sweetness, it is leavened by a lovely seam of youthful acidity. Age it 3+ years, or have it tonight with spiced prawn dishes.

071225    (M)            750 mL    $15.95   

The indigneous Agiorgitiko (pronounced Ah-yohr-yee-tee-koh) grape is the only red variety producers in Neméa are allowed to use. It is the country's second most planted red grape. When handled by exceptional producers such as Tsantali, the grape can produce berry- and plum-scented wines with structure and elegance that will reward 2-4 years in a cellar. It may also be enjoyed tonight with grilled leg of lamb.

013524    (D)            750 mL    $14.95   

The 'Greco' in this wine is Greco Bianco, a grape variety known during the Roman period as 'aminea' ('without red'). With an intriguing nose displaying melon, honey and roses, it is medium-bodied with flavours of candied fruits and citrus. Try this unique white alongside honey-glazed chicken with thyme and oregano.

072231    (D)            750 mL    $16.95   

Villanova's Pinot Grigio is known for its crisp, dry, minerally personality and lemon, peach, and herb notes. One sip of this balanced, long-finishing golden wonder and you will instantly discover why Pinot Grigio has soared in popularity.

022012    (XD)            750 mL    $15.95   

The Cortese grape that must be used to make Gavi wines is a very old cultivar that has been grown in Piedmont since the 17th century. In good hands it can create clean, fresh, and delicious wines that are a fine complement to shellfish or pan-fried freshwater fish.

073866    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   

Lugana, located at the south end of Lake Garda, is home to little-known whites made from Trebbiano that Robin Garr calls "luscious, full-bodied and surprisingly ageworthy, deserve ranking among the world's great whites for their balance, beauty and food-friendly style." Lugana wines are still inexpensive so grab some before this becomes the wine world's next hot white!

013284    (D)            750 mL    $17.95   

This wine made the Wine Spectator's Top 100 wine list in 2007.

TASTING NOTE: Has lots of dried flowers and very ripe fruits, with a Christmas pudding undertone. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, rich finish. A little Port-like, but rich and impressive. This is consistently delicious. Best after 2010. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 15, 2007) 

713354    (XD)            750 mL    $29.95   

DOCG regulations require that Vino Nobile wines contain at least 70% Prugnolo Gentile (the local name for Sangiovese) and be aged for two years. Riservas, such as this one, must be aged a further year. Crociani's version is a blend of 75% Prugnolo Gentile, 15% Canaiolo Nero, and 10% Mammolo.

TASTING NOTE: Medium ruby colour, this crisp and focused wine features aromas of black cherry, plum, truffle and earth aromas. It's very dry, medium-bodied with a fruity cherry/plum core, bright acidity and mild tannins leading to a lingering finish. Drink now with grilled gourmet sausages, veal chops or roast lamb. VINTAGES panel, April 2008) 

073825    (XD)            750 mL    $25.95   

If you are looking for a red wine for Sunday brunch when you are serving cold cuts and other antipasto dishes, then this Chianti Colli Fiorenti, with its flavourful cherry and plum aromas and flavours, is a fine choice. Chill it down a bit to accentuate the fruits and brighten up the acids.

073445    (XD)            750 mL    $19.95   

Made with the Alvarinho grape, Aveleda's Follies is attractive and friendly, with aromas of lemon, lime, grapefruit, and apple. There's plenty of fruit on the palate too, with ginger spice adding complexity. Try this quencher tonight with pad Thai or chicken Szechuan. Compare this with Quinta Do Ameal's Vinho Verde (578930, also in this release) that is made with the region's other principal grape, namely Louriero.

059048    (D)            750 mL    $15.95   

The 2005 Tinto is a young wine with a lot of power waiting to come to the front. Right now, it is loaded with black plum, cherry, vanilla and cocoa powder. Dry and fruity, but currently quite cleanly balanced by firm tannins, it will reward 3-5 years in a cellar. If you want to explore it tonight, decant it for two or three hours and match it to rare lamb dishes.

694992    (XD)            750 mL    $17.75   

The vineyards for this wine, Quinta de Ervamoira and Quinta dos Bon Ares, are located in the heart of Douro's Port-producing area. Ramos Pinto uses the traditional port grapes Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional in this dry red wine. It has an intense nose of blackberries with a wisp of vanilla, and a long, silky finish. Try it with meat dishes with lots of garlic.

Planted on sandy/clay soils, this Pinot Gris does a fine job emulating the off-dry style of Alsatian Gris and at a value price. Look for aromas of pear, spice, flowers and citrus. This medium-dry, full and rich wine is an excellent choice for stuffed pork tenderloin.

073247    (MD)            750 mL    $13.95   

The grapes for the Marques de Valcarlos are sourced in northern Spain's Navarra region, from vineyards situated at the foot of the Pyrenees. The 2000 Reserva displays herbaceous and tobacco notes, with hints of vanilla and burnt cinnamon. It has the tannic firmness to last 2-3 years in the cellar, or enjoy it tonight with barbecued spareribs.

The wine is a blend of 58% Tempranillo, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Carignan, 4% Syrah and 3% Merlot, aged for 9 months in a new French oak. The aromas are complex, featuring blackberry, black currant, black pepper, cedar and spices. Dry with good fruit surrounded by softening tannins and a good acid streak. This superb wine is an ideal choice for grilled steak, plus it will also reward 3-5 years in a cellar.

066928    (XD)            750 mL    $17.15   

"One of my favourite Rioja estates, Bodegas Muga continues to fashion traditionally made cuvées, but also has a foot in the future." (Robert Parker Jr., Wine Advocate, June 30, 2005). Made with Garnacha, Tempranillo and Viura, this 2007 vintage is dry and flavourful with a bright raspberry and strawberry nose. A great complement to paella or pan-fried freshwater fish.