Luigi Bosca Malbec 2010 

Wine of Argentina $17.95 (79293) 14.0% alcohol
This is found in Vintages Essentials, always available in select stores. Rich, robust aromas of black plum, red licorice and dark juicy cherry abound. A creamy, smooth river of black currant and dark cherry bathe the palate interwoven with roasted herbs and spice. It’s mid weight, balanced and tangy with a savory-scented finish and aftertaste. Pour with burgers, pizza, wings or pasta in tomato and meat sauce. (Vic Harradine)


Château des Charmes ‘St. David’s Bench Vineyard’ Chardonnay 2010
VQA St. David’s Bench $19.95 (430991) 14.0% alcohol
This also available in CdC Boutique stores in Toronto and Hamilton as well as on-line from Château des Charmes. Barrel fermented and aged in French oak, this wine offers rich aromas of vanilla, toasted nut, butter pastry and autumn fruit pie. Dry, medium-full bodied, it has a lovely smooth, round texture, a subtle structure and a great replay of orchard fruit garnished with sweet spice. A touch of warm, toasty oak lingers on the full-flavoured finish. A good choice for roast pork or chicken. (Susan Desjardins)


Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine Estate Carte Blanche’ Blanc de Blanc 2008 

VQA Short Hills Bench $44.95 (315200) 12.0% alcohol
This vintage-dated Chardonnay was hand harvested, partial barrel-fermented, made in the traditional method and left on its lees 4½ years before disgorgement. Mineral, floral, nutty and citrus notes intro a stunning mouthful of bubbles, lemon curd, ripe yellow plum and apple garnished with wisps of tropical fruit and ripe pear. It’s structured, complex and very long on the crisp, mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)


Henry of Pelham ‘Speck Family Reserve’ Pinot Noir 2009
VQA Short Hills Bench $40.00 (657874) 13.5% alcohol
This is firm and focused with balance, ripe fruit and years of drinking in store. Piquant spice, beetroot, dark berry fruit and tobacco aromas herald a wash of tangy red cherry and ripe briary berry interweaving with cranberry and toast persisting through the lengthy, balanced aftertaste. It’s structured and stylish throughout, drinking now after a two-hour aeration/decant and on to 2020. (Vic Harradine)