Anselmi San Vincenzo 2008
IGT Veneto $16.95 (948158) 13.0% alcohol
Here’s a bright golden blend of Garganega, Chardonnay and Trebbiano that offers light floral and tree fruit aromas. Medium bodied with a refreshing acidity, it has appealing sweet fruit flavours—pears and peaches come to mind. It’s well integrated and balanced with a crisp and lingering finish. This is a versatile wine that pairs well with a range of light meat or pasta dishes. (Susan Desjardins)


Hardys ‘Bankside’ Shiraz 2007
South Eastern Australia $14.95 (436022) 13.5% alcohol
A big wine, this Shiraz offers substantial aromas of rich berry fruit and pepper, along with a spicy floral note. It’s sweet, rich and jammy, with quite a pronounced eucalyptus undertone. Full bodied and structured with all components in harmony, it’s a tasting treat with a lasting warm peppery finish. Good value. (Susan Desjardins)


Château Pey la Tour ‘Réserve du Château’ 2007
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur $22.95 (925859) 13.0% alcohol
This Merlot-based blend is a full deep red with loads of aromas of dark fruit, toast, eucalyptus and an earthy note. Full bodied, the fruit flavours carry to the palate, complemented by a toasty char nuance. Dry, with noticeable tannins and acidity, this complex integrated wine has a persistent warm, peppery finish. (Susan Desjardins)