2011's best wines as chosen by Wine Spectator Magazine.
(Check them out now, quantities are extremely limited)
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This refreshing Chardonnay begins with aromas of ripe green apples and lemon. On the palate, creamy pear and tart peach flavors are followed by a smooth vanilla finish. Try serving with veal chops.
Winery: Greg Norman Estates
Vintage: 2004
Type: Chardonnay
Region: Santa Barbara, California
Ratings: THE WINE NEWS: 89 points
Price: $12.29
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The Chalone Vineyards 2005 Pinot Noir is mixed with a small amount of Petite Sirah, adding to its distinct dark color and providing additional body. Flavors of strawberry and dark cherry follow aromas of clove and nutmeg; pairs brilliantly with meaty fish such as salmon or swordfish.
Winery: Chalone Vineyard
Vintage: 2005
Type: Pinot Noir
Region: Monterey, California
Ratings: WILFRED WONG: 90 points
Price: $17.79
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Rated 85th in Wine Enthusiast’s Best Values of 2006, this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc displays aromas of sweet melon, nectarine, light herbs and hints of bell pepper. At this price, you cannot afford not to have at least one bottle of this well-balanced wine in your cellar.
Winery: Brancott Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough, New Zealand
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 88 points
Price: $10.99
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Deep flavors of dark cherry and red plums bring this velvety Chilean Merlot to life. And with a lasting peppery finish that pairs well with many meats and fine cheese, you won’t want to miss out on this Wine Enthusiast Editor’s Choice!
Winery: Vina Concha y Toro
Vintage: 2004
Type: Merlot
Region: Puemo, Chile
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 90 points
Price: $18.29
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If you’re the type of person who heads straight to the organics section in the grocery store, you should consider the ’05 Bonterra Chardonnay; one of the world’s top organically grown and farmed white wines. A full, rich Chardonnay with aromas of apricots, peaches and green apples. Rich buttery texture with great length.
Winery: Bonterra Vineyards
Vintage: 2005
Type: Chardonnay
Region: North Coast, California
Ratings: BRONZE MEDAL, 2006 CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR WINE COMP
Price: $12.99
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With grapes harvested from small clusters on vines as old as 80 years, the Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel boasts rich flavors of raspberry and plum, supported by a spicy mix of oaks. Pairs well with many foods including pizza, pasta, steak and grilled chicken.
Winery: Gnarly Head Cellars
Vintage: 2005
Type: Zinfandel
Region: Lodi, California
Ratings: CLUB BEV: 93 points, SILVER MEDAL, 2006 CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR WINE COMP
Price: $10.99
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The 2005 Columbia Winery Gewurztraminer is wonderfully rich, mixing sweet apple, pink grapefruit and hints of pimento. A good balance of acidity; pairs well with spicy asian cuisine.
Winery: Columbia Winery
Vintage: 2005
Type: Gewurztraminer
Region: Washington State, USA
Ratings: WINE ENTHUSIAST: 90 points
Price: $9.99
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The beautiful ruby colored 2003 Chateau Souverain Cabernet has aromatics of concentrated blackberry, plum and huckleberry, with a long toasty oak finish.
Winery: Chateau Souverain
Vintage: 2003
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Alexander Valley, California
Ratings: WINE SPECTATOR: 91 points
Price: $21.99
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