Bonterra Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Mendocino, Califorina $19.95 (342428) 13.5% alcohol
Produced from organic grapes, this inky violet-hued wine has abundant aromas of cassis, cedar, herbs and vanilla. A bold but approachable red, it’s full bodied, rounded and silky. Dark berry fruit, smoky oak, spice and mint flavours wash across the palate complemented by soft tannin and fine acidity. It’s an intensely pleasing mouthful of flavour with a harmonious and extended finish. (Susan Desjardins)


Mission Hill ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2006
VQA Okanagan Valley, Britsh Columbia $19.95 (545004) 13.5% alcohol
A brilliant golden colour, this tasty wine offers appealing aromas and flavours of sweet spicy oak mingling with ripe orchard and tropical fruit. It’s medium-full bodied, smooth and ripe with a subtle acidity balancing the rich fruit flavours. This is a refined and inviting wine with a persistent and toasty finish. Serve it with lobster or roast quail. (Susan Desjardins)


Christian Moueix Merlot 2005
AOC Bordeaux, France $15.95 (961227) 13.0% alcohol
From the owner of the famous Château Pétrus, this is a rich red with attractive layered aromas and flavours of plummy dark fruit, herbs and cedar. Medium-full bodied, it has a soft texture with moderate acidity and perceptible tannin. Subtle notes of pepper and tar linger on the finish. Well priced and well matched with filet mignon! (Susan Desjardins)


Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Marlborough, South Island $18.95 (316570) 13.0% alcohol
A perennial favorite, this pale-straw coloured wine has concentrated aromas of citrus, gooseberry and tropical fruits. Tangy and refreshing, the aromas replay on the palate underlain with soft vegetal and mineral notes. Light-medium bodied, the flavours are very consistent delivering a bright long-lasting finish. It’s a wonderful match with sole, halibut or your favorite goat cheese recipe. (Susan Desjardins)


Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Napa Valley, California $39.95 (255513) 15.5% alcohol
Dark, powerful, concentrated and intense, this heady wine has rich aromas and flavours of cassis, blackberries, sweet spice and licorice. It’s full bodied, structured and complex, with great balance and harmony. A fine wine designed for cellaring or to enjoy now with rare beef tenderloin with a tarragon mushroom sauce. (Susan Desjardins)


Zenato ‘Valpolicella Superiore’ Ripassa 2007
DOC Valpolicella, Italy $19.95 (910340) 14.0% alcohol
An intense, dense wine, this has the enticing fragrance of sweet dark berries, dried fruit and spice box. Rich concentrated flavours of ripened dark fruit, licorice, vanilla and dark chocolate tantalize. Full bodied and balanced, the wine is dry and fruity. The finish abounds with vibrant fruit and spice. Enjoy it with a meat dish with tomato-based sauce. (Susan Desjardins)