CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES CABERNET/MERLOT (V) VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake, Estate Bottled
Paul Bosc Sr. and family have been at the vanguard of quality wine production in Ontario for nearly thirty years. This Bordeaux-style blend has received consistent critical raves. Medium full-bodied with aromas of black cherries, plums, pepper and smoke, this wine is deep, dark and complex. An exceptional match for barbecued steak or roast leg of lamb.
222372 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
FLAT ROCK PINOT NOIR (V) VQA Twenty Mile Bench
Flat Rock Cellars was started in 1999, with its first full vintage in 2003. In a few short years, it has emerged as one of Ontario's finest producers of Pinot Noir. This example shows pretty cherry, plum, earth and beetroot aromas and flavours. A layer of crisp acidity and gentle tannins add balance. Enjoyable now with grilled lamb, or lay it down to improve for 2-3 years in a cellar.
001545 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
HENRY OF PELHAM RESERVE BACO NOIR (V) VQA Ontario
It is still rare in Ontario for a winery to be closely identified with one grape variety; Henry of Pelham and Baco Noir is one such hugely successful association. Years ago, the Speck brothers and winemaker Ron Giesbrecht recognized the potential of this hybrid grape and made it their signature wine. Bursting with black-fruit aromas and flavours that are perfectly balanced by fresh acidity, this Reserve version is a most welcome addition to our Essentials Collection. Match it to many of the big-flavoured meat dishes off your barbecue this summer. It will also reward 3-5 years in a cellar.
461699 (XD) 750 mL $24.95
MIKE WEIR ESTATE CABERNET/MERLOT (V) VQA Niagara Peninsula
This wine scores a hole-in-one with its aromas of blackberries, black cherry, pepper, vanilla, toast and hints of sweet herbs. Dry and medium full-bodied, its round fruit flavours are nicely balanced by the soft tannins. A tasty partner for roast beef au jus.
000109 (XD) 750 mL $18.95
HILLEBRAND TRIUS RED (V) VQA Niagara Peninsula
Hillebrand is one of the trailblazers for winemaking in Ontario. Their Trius Red was the among the first Bordeaux-blend wines to successfully demonstrate the strengths of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the vineyards of Ontario. A consistently delicious wine, it displays complex aromas of cedar, blackcurrant, bell pepper and tobacco leading to a juicy, medium-long finish. Try with lamb or beef dishes, or Gorgonzola cheese.
303800 (D) 750 mL $19.95
British Columbia
MISSION HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVE (V) VQA Okanagan Valley
This Cab more than meets the challenge of international standards with its aromatic display of ripe blackberry and cassis mingled with cedar, mocha and smoke. It has a soft, rich mouthfeel, medium-full body, excellent balance and a long spicy finish. Enjoy now with T-bone steak, or cellar for 2-3 years.
553321 (XD) 750 mL $24.95
California
BERINGER CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) Knights Valley, Sonoma County
This sensual Cab from the Knights Valley appellation in Sonoma County displays aromas of plums, cocoa, blackcurrant, sweet cherry and cedar. Creamy textured and loaded with sweet fruit flavours and a nice backbone of acidity, it is medium full-bodied with a long fruity/gently tannic finish. An excellent companion for barbecued leg of lamb.
352583 (XD) 750 mL $39.95
BONTERRA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) Mendocino County
This Cabernet uses only organically grown grapes. The extra effort rewards with pure aromas and flavours of cassis, plum, cherry and ripe blackberry all wrapped in silky tannins with a medium-long finish. Toast mother nature as spring flowers and summer fruits and vegetables come into season. Match it to grilled steak.
342428 (D) 750 mL $19.95
CLINE SYRAH (V) Sonoma County
Made with grapes sourced primarily from Cline's Sonoma County vineyards, this well-priced Syrah will have you singing its praises! Look for aromas and flavours of blackberry, plum, cracked pepper, spice and leather with a hint of oak, and a medium-long finish. A natural partner for rack of lamb or gourmet hamburgers.
733758 (D) 750 mL $12.95
LIBERTY SCHOOL CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) California
This delicious Cabernet teaches the meaning of value. Its nose is intense with concentrated dark fruit, particularly cherry and plum, complemented by spicy and savoury notes. It's dry, dense and richly textured with great balance and ripe tannins. For continuing education, enjoy anytime over the next 2-3 years with filet mignon.
738823 (D) 750 mL $16.95
RAVENSWOOD VINTNERS BLEND ZINFANDEL (V) California
Ravenswood was one of a handful of wineries that recognized early on that Zinfandel was an exceptional grape variety for fine wine production. Their Vintners Blend Zin is ready for any occasion with aromas of spice, raspberry, and mocha. Soft and round with lots of fruit and cocoa flavour, enjoy it with pork chops or barbecued chicken.
359257 (D) 750 mL $17.95
ROBERT MONDAVI CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) Napa Valley
Mondavi's original Napa Cab has an intense bouquet of red and black currants, licorice, and cedar. Full-bodied and well balanced with black fruit flavours and ripe tannins on the palate. Long, firm, with a spicy finish. Match with rib-eye steaks, or cellar for 2-3 years.
255513 (XD) 750 mL $37.95
RODNEY STRONG ESTATE PINOT NOIR (V) Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
This silky smooth wine shows why the Russian River Valley is the 'go to' region for quality Pinot Noir in California. Seductive aromas of cherry, plum, cinnamon, and oak spice replay on the medium full-bodied palate. Dry and well-balanced, it's soft and smooth with a peppery finish. If you're not already a Pinot lover, you're about to become one. Try it with grilled salmon or veal tenderloin.
954834 (D) 750 mL $24.95
ROSENBLUM ZINFANDEL (V) California
Rosenblum is one of California's Zinfandel masters. This version serves up lively aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and mocha. Ripe berry-fruit flavours are balanced by cedar tones and ripe tannins. It has a very nice berry-spice finish. Excellent with stuffed pork tenderloin, roasted leg of lamb or barbecued backribs.
284653 (D) 750 mL $17.95
STERLING CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) Napa Valley
It's not just Sterling Vineyard's spectacular mountaintop view of the Napa Valley that stirs the soul - this wine's rich aromas of cassis, spicy plum, and hints of chocolate and suede do it too. Bold and flavourful with fine tannins that lead to a long, complex finish, this wine will have your palate dancing. Serve with a prime rib roast and mushroom risotto.
314575 (D) 750 mL $29.95
STERLING MERLOT (V) Napa Valley
Rich and jammy with ripe blackberry and sweet cherry aromas. Medium full-bodied with an approachable ripe fruit centre and hints of spice and toasty oak. Long, full-flavoured finish. This Merlot would pair well with veal chops, shish kebabs or even a Philly cheese steak sandwich. Delicious now but can age 2-3 years.
330241 (D) 750 mL $29.95
Chile
CONCHA Y TORO MARQUES DE CASA CONCHA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) Puente Alto
A perennial favourite with Wine Spectator (the 2003, 2004 and 2005 vintages all earned scores of 90 points or above), here's a robust Cab that offers solid value. This powerhouse is packed with red currant, cassis, earth, sage, smoke and cedar aromas and flavours. It's dry, with a plush mouth-filling texture leading to ripe tannins on the lingering finish. Enjoy with bison steaks, lamb chops or rare roast beef.
337238 (D) 750 mL $19.95
MIGUEL TORRES SANTA DIGNA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVE (V) Chile
The Torres family has revolutionized the production of fine wine not just in Spain, but in Chile too. This Cab has plum, blackcurrant and toasty oak aromas. Fruit dominates on the well-balanced palate, with ripe tannins showing on the long finish. A perfect match for pulled-pork sandwiches.
177451 (D) 750 mL $14.95
PÉREZ CRUZ CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVA (V) Maipo Valley
A favourite of Vintages customers, this Cabernet is an overachiever that offers exceptional value. Rich and ripe, it features complex aromas and flavours of cherry, pomegranate, toasty oak, chocolate and some spicy notes. It's smooth and well-balanced with a medium-long finish. Savour it with gourmet sausages or roast pork.
694208 (XD) 750 mL $14.95
Argentina
CATENA MALBEC (V) Mendoza
(Bodega Catena Zapata)
Catena has built their reputation on Malbec from Mendoza, so here's an excellent opportunity for you to get acquainted with this new addition to our Essentials Collection. This rich and polished, alluring wine features aromas of fig, mocha, new leather and sweet spice. Dry and flavourful, its fruit core is nicely supported by ripe tannins. The finish is long and lush. Enjoy it tonight the Argentinian way with rare barbecued steak sliced and dipped in kosher salt.
478727 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
Australia
D'ARENBERG D'ARRY'S ORIGINAL (V) McLaren Vale, South Australia
Equal parts Shiraz and Grenache, this bold blend displays aromas and flavours of blackberry, black cherry, and licorice with background notes of coffee and caramel. This mouth-filling wine lands softly on the palate, and finishes long and smooth. Delicious with beef stir-fry or grilled lamb burgers.
942904 (D) 750 mL $19.95
GREG NORMAN CABERNET/MERLOT (V) Limestone Coast, South Australia
Previous vintages of this Cab/Merlot made the cut on Wine Spectator's Top 100 wines. Expect more sweet swings with this version. Aromas of blackcurrants, mint and toasty oak lead to lovely currant and plum flavours with hints of cedar and toast. Serve it with roast lamb and you've got yourself a hole-in-one.
552075 (XD) 750 mL $24.95
GREG NORMAN SHIRAZ (V) Limestone Coast, South Australia
The Shark's Shiraz is rich and vibrant, with aromas of blackberry, plum, dark chocolate and black pepper. It's dry with ripe blackberry and licorice flavours with tangy acidity and gripping tannins providing great structure. This predator craves meat, so we suggest serving it with traditional roast beef or grilled steak off the barbie.
575092 (XD) 750 mL $24.95
HARDYS BANKSIDE SHIRAZ (V) South Australia
For over 150 years, Hardys has been crafting some of Australia's best-known and most popular wines. This rich red shows typical Shiraz characteristics of intense black fruit, mint, vanilla, and pepper aromas. It's dry with generous fruit flavours, excellent structure and balance. Great with pasta and meat sauce or grilled gourmet sausages.
436022 (D) 750 mL $14.95
PENFOLDS THOMAS HYLAND SHIRAZ (V) South Australia
In the late 19th century, Thomas Hyland, son-in-law of founder Christopher Rawson Penfold, helped shape Penfolds into Australia's most famous name in wine. This top-notch Shiraz pays homage to that Aussie pioneer with its aromas of ripe black cherries, plum, tea, chocolate and spicy oak with more ripe berry-fruit flavours and seductively silky tannins on the palate. A fine match for grilled portobello mushrooms or barbecued backribs.
611210 (D) 750 mL $20.95
WOLF BLASS PREMIUM SELECTION CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) South Australia
Since he arrived on the international wine scene in the 1970s, Wolf Blass has taken the world by storm by consistently producing high-quality wines such as this full-bodied Cab. Its aromas and flavours recall blackcurrant, eucalyptus and dark chocolate. Serve this flavourful wine with rare prime rib or a barbecued Angus steak.
321927 (D) 750 mL $25.95
WOLF BLASS PREMIUM SELECTION SHIRAZ (V) South Australia
Lovely aromas of blackberry, cassis, mint, and black pepper lead to rich, concentrated fruit flavours, exotic spice and vanilla nuances, culminating in a long, toasty and fruity finish. This refined and well-balanced Shiraz matches well with mixed grill and blackberry compote.
348540 (XD) 750 mL $25.95
South Africa
CATHEDRAL CELLAR CABERNET SAUVIGNON (V) WO Paarl
This classy Cab from the Cape is loaded with aromas of cassis, cherry, violets, smoky oak and savoury herbs. It's dry, medium bodied and well crafted with juicy rich flavours and firm tannins. Enjoy it anytime over the next 2-4 years with dishes featuring coriander, cumin or allspice.
328567 (D) 750 mL $16.95
FAIRVIEW GOATS DO ROAM RED (V) WO Western Cape
Immensely popular worldwide, this wittily named Rhône-style blend (Shiraz, Cinsault, Carignan and Mourvèdre with a dash of local Pinotage) has proven to be more than just a funny name. It's a friendly, straightforward and fun wine featuring berry fruit and plum aromas with some pepper and earth in the background. A fantastic value and a great party wine!
718940 (D) 750 mL $12.95
France
CHANSON PÈRE & FILS LE BOURGOGNE PINOT NOIR (V) AC, Burgundy
This sleek and sexy wine shows that Burgundy produces stunning Pinot Noir for all budgets. Elegant with a medium body and classic aromas and flavours of ripe cherry, spices, vanilla plus a mineral note. Perfectly structured, it pampers your palate with a lingering sour-cherry finish that lasts and lasts. Enjoy this wine with roasted duck breasts or rotisserie chicken.
050575 (D) 750 mL $19.95
CHÂTEAU PEY LA TOUR (V) AC Bordeaux Supérieur, Réserve du Château
Modern styled, elegant and rich, this red features raspberry and blackcurrant flavours with hints of mint and earth leading to a chewy, medium finish. Primed for prime rib, it will continue to reward with two to five years of cellaring time. Formerly Château Clos de la Tour.
925859 (XD) 750 mL $22.95
LOUIS JADOT BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES (V) AC, 'Combe aux Jacques'
The most popular red wine in the VINTAGES Essentials Collection entices with its bouquet of smoke, cherry and fresh plum. Vivacious and fruity, this light- to medium-bodied Beaujolais has a succulent mouthfeel. Serve lightly chilled with grilled salmon or tuna steaks.
365924 (D) 750 mL $17.95
MOUEIX MERLOT (V) AC Bordeaux
(Jean-Pierre Moueix, Négoc.)
No one knows Merlot better than Christian Moueix, owner of the world famous (and Merlot-based) Château Pétrus. Year after year, the Moueix Merlot defines the grape. Soft and round with aromas of raspberry, cedar and blueberry. With ripe fruit, great balance and a medium-long finish, it's magic with veal medallions and sautéed mushrooms, or baked pasta.
961227 (XD) 750 mL $15.95
PERRIN & FILS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE LES SINARDS (V) AC, Rhône
Jean-Pierre, François and Pierre Perrin created Les Sinards as an homage to their late grandfather. With some of the grapes sourced from their famous Château de Beaucastel estate, this is a classic Châteauneuf with cocoa, blackcurrant, cherry and leather aromas. It's dry, medium to full bodied and packed with rich fruit flavours, as well as earth and smoke notes. With such great structure, this big wine needs roast beef or rack of lamb. It will also reward 2-4 years in a cellar.
926626 (XD) 750 mL $37.95
PERRIN RÉSERVE (V) AC Côtes du Rhône
This wine will transport you to the south of France. Five generations of Perrin winemaking culminate here as you breathe in aromas of candied cherries, plum, spice, and earthy tones. There's loads of juicy cherry flavours surrounded by good ripe tannins on the medium-bodied palate. Gourmets can savour it with homemade pizza or hamburgers.
This single-vineyard Barbera is an excellent value! It displays intense aromas of ripe cherry, leather and hints of vanilla oak. Medium-bodied, it's fresh and fruity with sour cherry and plum flavours, ripe tannins and a medium-long finish. Enjoy with cheese and spinach ravioli in tomato sauce or pulled pork sandwiches.
982462 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
BANFI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO (V) DOCG, Tuscany
This wine is made with the rather unique-to-Brunello Sangiovese clone, Sangiovese Grosso. Critically acclaimed Banfi commands respect with this wine as it is consistently one of the best of the region. Aromas of raspberry, coffee, truffle, plums, sage, and oak leads to dry, ripe fruit flavours surrounded by velvety tannins. A hearty, full-bodied wine to be enjoyed with thick lamb loin chops with a rosemary rub. It will improve further with two to three years in the cellar.
Made with 100% Nero d'Avola, this fantastic value displays rich aromas and flavours of pomegranate, dried plum, leather and smoky oak. A smouldering wine that's as warm as the island of Sicily itself. The soft tannins make it perfect with calzone, or give it a try with grilled lamb chops.
546192 (D) 750 mL $14.95
ROCCA DELLE MACÌE CHIANTI CLASSICO (V) DOCG, Tuscany
Italo Zingarelli, the late film producer and founder of Rocca delle Macìe, passed his love for winemaking onto his family. They are masters of Chianti. This delicious, well-structured wine has complex aromas and flavours of plum, earth, mushroom and a touch of oak. Uncompromising quality and value that works beautifully with antipasto, simple pasta with fresh tomato sauce or veal scallopini.
741769 (XD) 750 mL $19.95
SELLA & MOSCA CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA RISERVA (V) DOC, Sardinia
Cannonau is the Sardinian name for the Grenache grape. This versatile wine displays aromas of cherry, spice, wild berries, and smoke. It has a medium full-body, lush berry, earth and toasty oak flavours with ripe tannins on the finish. Best enjoyed with barbecued spicy Italian sausages or strong cheeses.
425488 (D) 750 mL $15.95
TEDESCHI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO (V) DOC, Veneto
Amarone is a labour of love. The art of drying grapes creates in the finished wine sweet Port-like aromas of chocolate and plum that are very inviting. In addition, it is loaded with delectable currant, cherry, spice and tobacco aromas and flavours. Medium full-bodied with a very long finish, it is ready to drink now on its own, with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese or good dark chocolate. It will also reward 3-4 years in a cellar.
433417 (D) 750 mL $44.95
TIGNANELLO (V) IGT Toscana
Consistently one of the most sought-after wines, this is a must for any cellar. 'Tig' is considered one of the best Italian wines, racking up numerous awards and accolades with each and every vintage. This rich and spicy blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is loaded with blackberry, coffee, tar and truffle aromas. It should be cellared for 2-10 years. Or decant it for at least two hours and it will be a fine choice for a hearty roasted lamb with a wild mushroom risotto.
This new addition to our Essentials Collection from the acclaimed Veneto producer, Tommasi, features a deep ruby-purple colour and aromas of plum, mushroom, cinnamon, leather and tomato leaf. It has an accessible New World nose and a very elegant, flavourful European-wine palate. Dry, smooth and juicy, it is nicely balanced with a zippy acidity and supportive tannins. An excellent partner for meat and vegetable lasagna or roast pork in a reduction sauce.
Founded in 1960 by Sergio Zenato, the winery's philosophy is to celebrate the region's traditions coupled with a desire to eclipse everything they have done before. This Ripassa consistently delivers on that philoposphy with its aromas of blackberry, raisins, and rich chocolate. The palate is dry with plenty of fruit flavours, hints of licorice, ripe tannins and even more chocolate. A great match for pasta with meatballs and tomato sauce, roast beef or pecorino cheese.
479766 (D) 750 mL $24.95
Portugal
DUQUE DE VISEU DÃO (V) DOC
Three generations of the Guedes family have built Sogrape into a signature Portuguese producer of quality wines. This blend of Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (two of the great grapes used to make Port) is a great value from the heart of the Dão region. Expect a dry, full-bodied wine with attractive aromas of violets and sweet berries, flavours of lovely fruit, pepper and oak, and a spicy, plummy finish. Enjoy with roast pork or churrasco chicken.
546309 (XD) 750 mL $12.95
Spain
JULIAN CHIVITE GRAN FEUDO RESERVA (V) DO Navarra
Bodegas Julian Chivite is the oldest continuously family-owned winery in Spain. Over 11 generations, they have developed into one of the finest producers in Navarra and Spain. This wine is bursting with ripe cherry, vanilla, cocoa and blueberry aromas and flavours. It's dry, medium full-bodied, well structured with a lengthy finish. The easygoing, soft tannins make this wine very approachable. A great match for roasted chicken stuffed with olives, almonds and paprika.
479014 (D) 750 mL $15.95
TORRES GRAN CORONAS CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVA (V) DO Penedès
Over the last 130 years, the Miguel Torres winery has almost single-handedly built and maintained the reputation of Penedès, and this wine shows why. Velvety and rich with alluring aromas of blackberry, currants, coffee, vanilla and bell pepper, it is medium-bodied with gentle fruit flavours and silky tannins. Delicious with a meaty paella or roast pork tenderloin.
