Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico 2006
DOCG Chianti Classico $18.95 (741769)
Dusty, earthy and dried fruit aromas form the involved nose while the flavours deliver a gorgeous mouthful of rich red berry fruit—pie cherry and red currant up front. It’s deftly balanced and nicely textured, look for ripe and supple tannins and a lingering zesty finish. This pairs particularly well with pasta puttanesca. It’s a ‘Vintages Essentials’ product—always available in selected LCBO stores. (VH)


Duca di Castelmonte ‘Cent’are’ Nero d’Avola 2006
IGT Sicilia $14.95 (546192)
Hailing from the southern tip of Sicily, Nero d’Avola is often favourably compared to Shiraz. A crowd-pleasing gem, this opens with expressive aromas and flavours of kirsch liqueur, ripe black currant and spiced black plum. It’s ready to drink, well-structured, medium bodied, fully textured and sports a lingering, well balanced and lip-smacking finish. This 'Vintages Essentials' product, always available in selected LCBO retail locations, is one of the best-value wines in the category. (VH)