Geyser Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Sonoma, California $15.95 (340208)

A fabulous blending of New Zealand-like characteristics of SB with the warmer climate of Sonoma. Aromatics of gooseberries and passion fruit mark it as SB, while the beautiful fruit flavours (peaches and melons) and gorgeously textured mouth feel, bring the warm climate to the fore. A good spine of acidity runs through to the tangy finish. Quaff on its own or pair with mussels steamed in white wine. (VH)


Greg Norman Cabernet/Merlot 2002
Limestone Coast, Australia $23.95 (552075)

Beginning with the minty, oaky, black cherry nose and ending with a lingering finish of currants and balancing acidity, this wine is a crowd pleaser. It has gorgeous texture and provides a mouth watering array of fruit (spiced cranberry, plum and black currant) flavours with enough grip to mark it as a wine to be enjoyed with a meal. Why not try with grilled rare steak slathered with melted blue cheese and cracked pepper. (VH)


Masi Grandarella Appassimento
Rosso delle Venezie I.G.T, Italy $28.95 (606921)

This Amarone-like red is huge, brooding and delicious. Vinified 3/4 from an indigenous grape, Refosco, and 1/3 Carmenére, they are left some 2 months to dry, losing 1/3 of their weight, thereby concentrating flavours to make this mammoth wine. Cherry and mint aromatics blast away and provide a glimpse of the taste treat to follow. Grainy tannins, gobs of chocolate, cherries and tar dazzle the palate. The finish is luxurious. Drink 2010 to 2020 with a rare grilled Elk steak - now being farmed just west of Ottawa. (VH)


Viña Pérez Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2004
Maipo Valley, Chile $13.95 (694208)

An new edition to Vintages Essentials, this deep rich opaque Cab is incredible value. Hand picked fruit, low yields and only utilizing free run juice help make this wine memorable. Includes token amounts of Merlot (4%) and Syrah (1%), but the winery is convinced the 4% Carmenére really adds richness and complexity. The nose is toasty with black currants and raspberries whilst the palate is mouth filling with cherries and chocolate predominating. Cleans up with good acidity in the medium-length finish. Drink now until 2008 with grilled rare filet mignon. (VH)