Presqu'ile de Saint-Tropez 'Carte Noire' Rosé 2004
AOC Côtes de Provence $14.85 (319384)
The brilliant copper salmon-coloured liquid is a stunning visual treat. The blend (90% Grenache-10% Cinsault) is summer in a glass with its fresh, grapey and cherry sherbet aromas. The flavours are full of tang; it's a lovely sipping wine and very food friendly— appetizers of rare beef with fleur de sel on toasts work well. The robust flavours are in the cranberry and red currant zones. It's medium bodied and sports a clean dry finish with a hint of red grapefruit. A Vintages Essentials product - it's always available. (VH)


Alsace Willm 'Réserve' Riesling 2007
AOC Alsace $16.95 (11452)
Mineral and slate aromas segue to this classy Alsatian. You'll experience bracing acidity, in the form of zesty and refreshing citrus flavours that are infused with spice and hints of white peach and apple. Supple velvet-like texture adds to the experience while the finish is lengthy and cleansing—everything a fine dry Riesling should be. This Vintages Essentials product (stocked continuously) is perfectly matched with German sausage and sauerkraut. (VH)



Torres 'Gran Coronas' Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
DO Penedès, Spain $18.95 (36483)
Full bodied and richly textured, look for aromas and flavours in the dark berry and spiced black plum to predominate. Ripe and perceptible tannins provide structure while a lovely moderating stream of acidity provides balance. The finish is lengthy, adding hints of tobacco, vanilla (from French and American oak ageing), and cassis. This is a perennial favourite and Vintages Essentials (always stocked) product. (VH)