Trapiche Extravaganza 2013
Argentina
Rich and full-bodied with lots of mocha, dark chocolate and vanilla spice on the nose from generous oak aging. A mouth-filling wine with layers of fleshy black fruit flavour on the palate. This is a blend of Malbec, Bonarda and Syrah grapes that yields a velvet texture on the tongue. Try it with coffee-rubbed steak or ribs.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2014-2018
Price: $15.95
Score: 90/100
LCBO: 360776
Yellow Tail Pink Bubbles Rose Sparkling
South Australia
A good value sparkling wine that offers pleasant notes of faint strawberry. Crisp and refreshing, not sweet. You can't beat the price.
Alcohol: 11.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2013-2014
Price: $13.95
Score: 82/100
LCBO: 229047
Kim Crawford Fizz Methode Traditionnelle 2009
Marlborough, New Zealand
All the grapes for this sparkling wine come from the Marlborough region. It's crisp and clean with lovely notes of green melon and green apple. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to seafood and vegetarian dishes. The winemaker Anthony calls 2009 a terrific vintage.
Alcohol: 12%
Sweetness: Dry
Drink: 2013-2016
Price: $30.00
Score: 92/100
LCBO: 381236
Laborie Brut Sparkling Wine Méthode Cap Classique Kwv Sparkling White 2009
Western Cape, South Africa W.O.
Toasty and smoky and robust. Terrific quality for the price.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Dry
Drink: 2012-2014
Price: $17.95
Score: 88/100
LCBO: 280115
Casa Lapostolle Cuvée Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Colchagua Valley, Chile
Very dry and savoury with dried herbs and cassis. Lovely elegance with a long finish. Very well-structured. Decant 2 hours. A dinner party wine.
Alcohol: 14.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2011-2015
Price: $24.95
Score: 90/100
LCBO: 947929