KWV Cathedral Cellar Merlot 2002
WO Coastal, South Africa $16.95 (522219)
Toasty, spiced black plums blow off the glass while the palate is dazzled with a huge attack of sweet (14.5% alcohol) and concentrated black Bing cherry and currant flavours. This medium to full-bodied gem offers layers of flavours, balancing tang and a memorable, luxurious, fruit-driven finish. Would marry well to pork tenderloin with a dried nectarine and raisin stuffing. Serious wine at a sensible price, stock up. (VH)


Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Blancs 2003
Carneros $25.25
An excellent sparkling wine for the holiday season, from California's premium sparkling wine producer. This has fine bubbles and a delicate mousse, and delivers a mélange of flavours that include pineapple, apple, pear and lemon. It's complex, refreshing and delicious, and makes an excellent aperitif or partner to spicy seafood. (RP)



Schug Pinot Noir 2005
Carneros $TBA
Owner Walter Schug attributes some of the complexity in this wine to the fact that the grapes grow thicker skins as a response to the buffeting winds they're subjected to. Certainly, rich pepper and spicy notes complement the concentrated flavours of raspberry, strawberry and cherry. This Pinot has very good structure and great balance, and it pairs well with grilled lamb. (RP)


Schug Chardonnay 2005
Carneros $TBA
This delivers rich fruit flavours in the peach-tropical-apricot zones, accented with notes of caramel and spice. It has added complexity from having been barrel-fermented and aged nine months sur lie. Add a silky texture and you have a very attractive wine that goes very well with stuffed pork tenderloin. (RP)


Schug Merlot 2003
Sonoma Valley $TBA
I'm more and more impressed by Merlots from cool regions, and here's another. As owner Walter Schug says, "this smells like fruit instead of jam." That's what makes this Merlot so attractive: the fresh fruit aromas and flavours, with red plum to the fore. The tannins are firm and in keeping with the texture of the wine. (RP)
Vintages Release December 2006/early 2007


Schug Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Sonoma Valley $TBA
This contains 12% Cabernet Franc and 8% Merlot. It's quite big and elegant with dominant flavours of dark fruit and a subtle, attractive green note. The acidity is spot-on and the tannins are ripe and firm. (RP)