Herdade do Esporão ‘Reserve Red’ 2006
DOC Alentejo, Portugal $24.95 (606590) 14.5% alcohol
This is a gorgeous blend—Trincadeira, Aragonês (a.k.a.Tempranillo), Cabernet Sauvignon and Alicante Bouschet—flirting with 5 stars; it’s an oft-overlooked wine bargain in the LCBO. It’s rich, powerful and brimming with aromas and flavours of boysenberry, cassis and succulent Bing cherry. The tannin is ripe and supple providing solid structure for this impeccably balanced gem. The finish truly lingers with a luxurious display of ripe fruit and balancing acidity. This is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in selected stores. (Vic Harradine)


Bodegas Julian Chivite ‘Gran Fuedo Reserva’ 2004
DO Navarra $15.95 (479014) 13% alcohol
A red blend—Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot—that was aged in American and French oak for 18 months, this delivers a solid stream of red berry and red cherry fruit flavours along with hints of mixed spice and wisps of well-integrated oak. It’s ready for the glass with medium weight, an integrated finish and a spine of moderating acidity throughout. It shines with tomato-based sauces and pasta. This is a Vintages Essentials wine, always available in selected stores. (Vic Harradine)