Henry of Pelham Cabernet Franc 2005
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95
Dusty red cherry and currant aromas waft from the glass of this medium-bodied red from one of Niagara's top wineries. Expect a round and warm offering, after a 3 hour decant, that showcases clean and pure plum and black currant flavours with beguiling hints of spice and toasty notes. Generous tang and soft tannins complete the medium-length finish. Pair this to a home-made creamy macaroni and cheese dish. (VH)

Liberty School Chardonnay 2004
Central Coast, California approx. $19.95 (960120)
Gorgeous aromas of tropical fruit and vanilla waft from the glass of this medium-bodied well-balanced beauty. The mouth feel and texture is creamy, from barrel-fermented vinification, while the flavours are intense and involved. They include pear, apple and gobs of honeyed stone fruit plus a tantalizing hint of caramel. It finishes zesty and clean, suggesting a pairing to a roast Sunday bird with your favourite stuffing. (VH)


Liberty School Syrah 2004
California, approx. $19.95 (942383)
With fruit sourced primarily from the cooler Paso Robles area, this medium-bodied red is stunning. Aromas of pepper and dark, ripe berry fruit waft from the glass. A 3% splash of Viognier gives a lift to the fruit-forward flavours of rich, sweet cherry and bramble berry. French oak is present, but deftly integrated into the elegant structure of ripe tannins and moderate zest. Paired perfectly when poured alongside rack of lamb. Well priced. (VH)

Austin Hope "Hope Family Vineyard" Syrah 2003
Paso Robles $49.95 (686121)
With full-bore fruit, astonishing complexity and immense concentration, this could be as far from a Rhône-style Syrah as the Rhône Valley is from, well, Paso Robles. Made from grapes sourced from root-stock at Ch. Beaucastel, this shows the authenticity of Syrah: a seam of sweet, ripe fruit at the core, enveloped by layers of dark fruit and berry flavours, all generously accented by pepper and spice. Drink it now with a well-seasoned grilled rack of lamb or hold it another five years. (RP)