Justin Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Paso Robles, California $45.50 04 $26.65/375ml bottle
Another big Napa Cab, this one showing well-concentrated dark fruit and
berry flavours, a good, firm tannic grip and long length. Theres a
remarkable purity of fruit right through the palate, and this will
sustain the wine through aging for ten years or more. Then drink it in
the company of well-seasoned friends and red meat. Order from the
Robert Groh agency: www.robgroh.com (RP)
Logan Wines Weemala Shiraz 2000
Central Ranges, NSW, Australia $17.50
Dusty, crushed black cherries and spicy aromatics set up this
medium-bodied beauty. Excellent grip and wonderful rich fruit
extraction (possibly due to a two-day cold soak) make this an
exciting offering in the style of a rich and expensive Rhône Syrah
(tar, licorice and currants). Great value to stock up and drink now to
2007. Try with any tomato-based sauces or veal Parmigiana. Order now
from Rob Beardall at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (VH)
Malivoire Wine Co. Levity Chambourcin 2003
VQA Ontario $14.00
Sourced from 100% hand-picked Bench fruit, this red French hybrid
produces a wine the name might suggest; a lighter style with a sweet
core of uncomplicated fruit flavours and imperceptible tannins. The
nose and palate match with fresh strawberries and sweet cranberries,
all combining to produce an interestingly tangy finish. Serve slightly
chilled with pork loin roast or veal Marsala. This is great value.
Order from Rob at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (VH)
McManis Family Vineyards Chardonnay 2003
River Junction, California $20.95
This San Joaquin Valley fruit is sourced from a cooler area than most,
and the upside is a fragrant aromatic offering boasting of smoky
tropical fruit and melons underpinned by a wonderful balance of
acidity. This has a creamy texture that begs for well seasoned grilled
chicken breast and creamy pasta. Rob Groh agency is the place to
purchase at www.robgroh.com (VH)
Murphy-Goode Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
California, U.S.A. $21.95
A spectacular Cab with new world stamped all over it. Jammy, rich and
concentrated with a firm spine of tannin and acidity allowing it to
knit together. Great for sipping, but much better with pepper steak or
rare beef tenderloin. www.robgroh.com is the site to purchase this value red. (VH)
Domaine de Montpertuis Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2001
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France
A blend of Grenache (70%), Mourvèdre (20%) and Syrah (10%), this shows
as rich and spicy with dominant flavours of dried fruit. It has a
smooth, well-structured texture, and theres no hint of the 14% alcohol
in the mouthfeel. A very successful wine that will keep well until the
end of the decade, and pairs well now with roasted mustard-wrapped rack
of lamb. Order from Allegro Wine Imports (416) 466 2720 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (RP)
Salvalai Monile Ripasso 2001
DOC Valpolicella Classico Superiore, Italy $24.00
This gutsy, rustic red starts out innocently with floral notes, black
cherries and raspberries. Once on the palate, it grabs hold and doesnt
let go. The core is sweet, rich and chewy ripe fruit whilst the finish
is where the firm tannins and good acidity balance off this made for
food gem. Osso Bucco would be simply divine. Order from Rob at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (VH)
Trénel Fils Saint Véran 2002
AOC Saint Véran, France $21.11
Fragrant floral, green apple and buttery notes lead one into this well
structured Chardonnay that is medium bodied and well balanced. Being a
n é gociant allows this producer to choose the best fruit from this
southern Burgundy appellation. Chicken Kiev would match well. Very good
value. Buy from Allegro Wine Imports (416) 466 2720 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (VH)
Voss Estate Pinot Noir 2002
Martinborough, New Zealand $49.35
The tiny Martinborough region, not far from Wellington, has become a
world benchmark region for Pinot Noir. The Voss 2002 gives you some
idea why. It offers a lovely and apparently seamless combination of
sweet and sour cherry, with earthy and spicy notes. Medium bodied and
with light tannins, it has just the right level of acidity to
complement food like medium-rare grilled New Zealand lamb. Available
from the Robert Groh Agency, www.robgroh.com (RP)
Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Napa Valley, California $68.10 or $35.75/375ml bottle
A luscious, full-bodied Napa Cab with rich, well-focused dark fruit and
complex flavours of fruitcake spice and black pepper. With firm tannins
and good balance, this is a natural for a big hunk of medium-rare red
meat. You can drink this now or hold it for another six to eight years.
Buy it from the Robert Groh Agency at www.robgroh.com (RP)