THE RESULTS ARE IN! Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2011
2011's best wines as chosen by Wine Spectator Magazine.
(Check them out now, quantities are extremely limited)

Brassfield Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Brassfield Sauvignon Blanc 2005 Bottle

Rated #27 on the Wine Enthusiast’s Top Values of 2006, the Brassfield Sauvignon Blanc is 89% Sauvignon Blanc and 11% Semillon. The Semillon adds a touch more body, resulting in a somewhat dry wine with a surprisingly smooth finish.

Winery: Brassfield Estate
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Clear Lake, California
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 91 points
Price: $13.79

Bodegas Arrocal Ribera del Duero 2005

Bodegas Arrocal Ribera del Duero 2005 Bottle

Tempranillo is the most important red wine varietal for both everyday and world-class Spanish wines, and some studies have shown that it is actually a relative of Pinot Noir. Aromas of blackcherry and blueberry, with a silky texture and soft tannins, this excellently balanced Spanish red can be enjoyed over the next 3-5 years.

Winery: Bodegas Arrocal
Vintage: 2005
Type: Tempranillo
Region: Ribera del Duero, Spain
Ratings: ROBERT PARKER, JR: 90 points
Price: $16.79

Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc 2005

Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc 2005 Bottle

The 2005 Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc is Sauvignon Blanc blended with a small amount of Semillon and Viognier. On the nose, expect fresh aromas of grapefruit and lemongrass. On the palette the Semillon adds a touch of sweet apple to a crisp citrus base. A great summer wine, serve it chilled with salad and light white fish.

Winery: Chateau St Jean Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Fume Blanc
Region: Sonoma County, California
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 91 points
Price: $10.99

Valentin Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Valentin Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Bottle

The Mendoza region is the most important region in Argentina’s wine industry. The 2004 Valentin Bianchi cab is medium-to-full bodied and opens with beautifual aromas of chocolate, pepper, and dark berries. Rich, spicy, berry flavors follow on the mouth and end in a long, smooth finish. Perfect for the next time you barbeque steak or cook lamb.

Winery: Bianchi Vineyards
Vintage: 2004
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Mendoza, Argentina
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 90 points
Price: $16.79

Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Bottle

Matua Valley Wines was the first winery in New Zealand to produce Sauvignon Blanc. This crisp and refreshing wine opens with aromas of lime, gooseberry and a brush of green apple. The finish is long, with a touch of residual sugar follow on the palette. Try pairing it with seafood, shellfish, or cheese.

Winery: Matua Valley
Vintage: 2006
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 89 points
Price: $10.29

Kinderwood Merlot 2003

Kinderwood Merlot 2003 Bottle

Ever since the movie Sideways, the many great and inexpensive wines of Southern California have become very highly regarded. And although the movie may imply that you should avoid Merlot, that is anything but the case! The Kinderwood ’03 is a great dry red wine, boasting rich flavors of current and just a touch of oak. Pair it with hamburger, steak, or even pizza. Enjoy until 2009.

Winery: Kinderwood Winery
Vintage: 2003
Type: Merlot
Region: Paso Robles, California
Ratings: THE WINE MESSENGER: 91 points
Price: $9.75

Fess Parker Riesling 2005

Fess Parker Riesling 2005 Bottle

Like all Rieslings, the Fess Parker 2005 is semi-sweet (3.5% residual sugar), but not to be mistaken for a dessert wine. Floral aromas and hints of orange and lychee nut are followed by crisp flavors of peach and pineapple in the mouth. Serve slightly chilled alongside spicy Asian food, soup and salad, or fruity desserts.

Winery: Fess Parker Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Riesling
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Ratings: SILVER MEDAL, 2006 California State Fair Wine Competition
Price: $11.99

Domaine Puech Cocut Pinot Noir 2006

Domaine Puech Cocut Pinot Noir 2006 Bottle

This medium-bodied French Pinot Noir opens with delicious aromas of cherry, red berries, and a touch of mint. On the palette it is well-balanced with bright cherry & ripe plum flavors. Pairs brilliantly with grilled veggies and chicken. Drink it now or store up until to 2009.

Winery: Puech Cocut (Domaine de Raissac)
Vintage: 2006
Type: Pinot Noir
Region: The Languedoc (Pays d’Oc), Southern France
Ratings: THE WINE MESSENGER: 91 points
Price: $12.50