Familia Fantelli ‘Orgánico’ Malbec 2008
Mendoza, Argentina $14.95 (194134) 13.6% alcohol
Here’s an up-scale, certified-organic Malbec that’s in short supply, but worth the hunt. It’s full of vitality with great balance throughout. Spice-driven aromas of berry fruit segue a juicy mouthful of mulberry and field berry flavours mingling with spice and underpinned by ripe, fine-grained tannins. The lingering aftertaste is lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)


Henry of Pelham Family Estate Pinot Noir 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (13904) 13.0% alcohol
This is well structured, nicely balanced and lip-smacking good. Aromas of cherry and earthy tones waft easily from this medium-bodied nicely textured Pinot. Racy cranberry, red cherry and tangy red currant wash over the palate and lengthy refreshing aftertaste in waves. It’s silky smooth throughout and really shines paired with roast chicken or grilled smoked duck breasts. (Vic Harradine)