Great Value!
A wine to pair with hearty meat sauces or rich tomato based pastas this is a delicious one with seductive aromas of warm, sweet black raspberry, roasted herbs and chocolate with very appealing notes of violets and cedar chips. The palate is supple, weighty and smooth - layered with dark chocolate, berries, spice and tobacco. The finish wraps up with savoury herbal flavours and fine, powdery tannins.
A blend of: Cabernet Sauvignon with 30% Carmenere and 15% Syrah
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 7th, 2010

This chewy blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with 30% Carmenere and 15% Syrah features savoury aromas of dark berries and roasted herbs, plenty of spice, mocha and a hint of bell pepper. The palate is supple, it's medium-full bodied with flavours of espresso and leather, dark fruits and grilled meat with toasted oak and green olives.
It is a hearty wine that is meant to be paired with hearty roasted meats or rich stews.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 9th, 2009

A decadent but fresh Barossa Shiraz with sweet and smoky aromas of bleuberry, blackberry, sweet mint and espresso, fruitcake spice and leather with hints of cigarbox and dark earth. The palate is sweet and lush with great acidity to balance the layers of berry, spice and coffee flavours. Soft tannins on the finish and a long mocha linger...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 24th, 2010

Named for the left (or Gauche) bank of Bordeaux, La Gauche is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with 15% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 2% Malbec that has been aged in French oak barrels for 19 months.
It is an intense wine with layers of ripe black raspberries, plums and cherries with hints of green olive, spice, dark chocolate and cigarbox. The palate is rich and full with flavours of dark fruit, spicebox, chocolate and mineral-rich earth. Very nice acidity with fine cocoa tannins clinging to the finish.
Well done.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 24th, 2010

NEW!
With the popularity of Malbec in Argentina, the birthplace of Malbec (also known as Cot or Auxxerois) in Cahors France, now wants to claim some of its recognition. The winery where Rigal is produced has been making Malbec here since 1755 and has developed this new label to bring a modern twist to an old variety...
This wine is predominantly earthy - cocoa, sunbaked earth, sweet dark chocolate and mocha rounded out with berry flavours. The palate follows suit with spicy black fruits and earthy flavours. It's medium to full-bodied, has a powdery texture with loads of acidity and cocoa tannins on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 23rd, 2010

A solid value blend that smells of mixed berries, grilled herbs and green olives with mocha and smoked spice. The palate is supple and spicy, concentrated and quite powerful with layers of blackberry, mocha and oakspice. It seems a bit hot on the finish (14%) but you can chew on this wine or just pair it with roasted meat or mushrooms in a creamy herb sauce.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 23rd, 2010

A new package on a old favorite!
This De Bortoli Family Selection red blend has obvious sunwarmed wild berry and eucalyptus aromas, chocolate, vanilla and a mineral/saline core. Sweet ripe fruit dominates the palate - notably juicy blueberry and raspberry - sweet spices and chocolate with a hint of tobacco. Supple and generous with a smooth lingering finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 23rd, 2010

An affordable Carmenere - great for hearty weeknight dinners or barbecues.
Smoked black cherry and plummy aromas, sunbaked earth, charred spices and a meaty/savoury core. The palate is firm with good intensity - flavours of espresso, cocoa and spice with a gamey layer. It has a powdery texture, some nice acidity and spicebox flavours on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 23rd, 2010

Here is an old world wine that will impress you with its intensity and bright character.
Vibrant aromas of black raspberry and cassis, spicebox and cedar, tobacco leaf and sweet spices. It is smooth on the entry and on the finish, the mid-palate has a slightly powdery texture and it is layered flavours of dark berries, spice and tobacco.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 17th, 2010

This is a simple savoury red, a dinner wine that will not empty your wallet.
Aromas of spiced cherries, smoke and dark earth with bittersweet chocolate. The palate echoes those spiced cherries and chocolate aromas, the texture is a bit dusty but it has great acidity and a smooth finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 17th, 2010

Here is a nice Cotes du Rhone that is perfect for simple, rustic meals.
It has aromas of sweet cherry and dusty red berries, leather, earth and hints of tobacco that lead to a juicy palate. Fresh, tasty and uncomplicated with firm powdery tannins and a spicy linger.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 9th, 2010

Released in June, this is a fantastic first vintage Syrah for Laughing Stock Vineyards. It is made in a northern Rhone-style (Syrah blended with a small amount of Viognier like the field blends in Cote Rotie) and is simply elegant.
Meaty, savoury and spicy aromas layered with black berries, leather, tobacco and dark earth, it has a very bloody (sauvage) hint to it too. The palate presents sweet, spicy berry flavours with dark chocolate and espresso lingering across the finish. Lovely balance, smooth and juicy...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 9th, 2010

Mission Hill's Select Lot Collection Syrah may need a bit of more time to mature but it will not disappoint. Still very youthful it presents aromas of dark chocolate, plums and wild berries, espresso and dark, mineral rich earth. The palate follows suit; it is dark, earthy and concentrated with savoury tones and plenty of hot spices.
Expect a powerful wine with fine, firm tannins.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 9th, 2010

This is an earthy and peppery wine, appropriately labeled Syrah (rather than Shiraz) that is layered with sweet dark berries, chocolate and a hint of tar. The palate has a powdery texture and concentrated flavours of espresso. earth and peppery spices. A solid wine, well-made with nicely balanced acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 9th, 2010

This delicious blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre from the southern Rhone is a perfect example of the southern Rhone's ability to produce quality wines with ripe fruit and complexity at an appealing price point.
There are obvious notes of mixed berry, wild herbs, saddle leather and spice on the nose but it leaps onto the palate with sweet blueberry and raspberry flavours, vanilla and spice flavours (notably star anise and clove) pepper and berries linger on the finish. It is a bright and supple wine that will pair well with rich mushroom dishes or firm, dry goat cheese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 9th, 2010

The sister wine to this macho looking Shiraz is the Bitch Grenache with its antithetical powder pink label.
The Luchador (Spanish for wrestler or fighter) presents black berries, dried cherry and mint aromas with lots of spice and dusty cocoa notes. The same spiced fruit appears on the palate but more in a vibrant red berry form. It is earthy and spicy in the mouth with hints of leather and chocolate smooth tannins linger on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 29th, 2010

The Rosso delle Venezie IGT is made from Corvina, Croatina and Merlot grapes that have been partially dried prior to fermentation - this gives more intensity to the grape as the water evaporates.
It is an earthy wine presenting scorched earth, intense fruit, patchouli and spice aromas. The palate is smooth and concentrated layered with sweet berries, chocolate and earthy flavours. It has balanced acidity and a long finish trailing toasted spice flavours.
Pair with robust tomato-based dishes, hard cheeses and roasted meats.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 2010

Despite the cooling winds of Monterey, the Hess Chardonnay is still a very ripe and buttery style. Obvious butterscotch and warm spice, pineapple and vanilla with orange cream and exotic citric notes. The caramel continues on the palate with a mix of sweet spice (loads of star anise and clove), vanilla, tropical fruit and citrus flavours with toasted oak on the finish. Lively acidity keeps it bright.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 2010

An impressive, concentrated Zinfandel with a bit of age to smooth it out.
Sweet, sunwarmed berries, spice and chocolate aromas are echoed on the palate. It is dense, weighty and warm with nicely balanced acidity and a long smooth finish.
Made from CCOF certified organic grapes, this wine will pair well with spicy meat dishes and aged cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 27th, 2010

The baker's dozen blend of varieties (including: Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Montepulciano) in this fun, screw-capped red express aromas of berries and plums, leather and cigarbox with plenty of peppery spice notes. There is nice complexity for the price, it is a charming wine with a supple texture and rustic edge. Flavours of berries, chocolate and mixed spices linger across the palate. The folks at Big House recommend spaghetti bolognese, lasagna or grilled meat to pair with this affordable red.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 27th, 2010

This organic rose is made from 95% Merlot and 5% Syrah and is not for the meek.
It is a dark rusty-ruby colour with aromas of cherry juice, smoke, dried tobacco leaf and wild herbs with an earthy core. There is plenty of lively acidity and flavours of tobacco and spice with hints of dried fruit. Quite powerful and grippy on the palate with a dusty texture - spice and bitter flavours linger on the finish.
Will hold its own with barbecued foods.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

This is a savoury Merlot to pair with grilled meats and roasted dishes - aromas of smoke and black plums, leather and game with peppery spices. The palate is smooth and chocolaty flavours of prune plum and char-grill/meaty hints echo the nose with pepper and spice lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 14th, 2010

This classic South African variety (a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault) is produced by a just few BC wineries. The Hillside shows typical red fruit and earthy characters - expect aromas of tart red fruit (think plum, cherry and currents), dried flowers and plenty of wild herbal notes, cigarbox and pepper. The palate is smooth and very juicy, it is medium-bodied with bittersweet cocoa, pepper and toasted/char hints. The finish is smooth, savoury and peppery.
A wine to pair with grilled or roasted meat dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 7th, 2010

This 'kitchen blend' of 60% Malbec with equal parts Bonarda and Syrah hails from the Mendoza sub-appellations of La Consulta, Altimira and Vista Flores.
It is inky purple and opaque in colour and has gobs of dense, sweet purple berry and grape-y aromas, saddle leather and warm spices, licorice and mocha. It is plush and juicy in the mouth, powerful and supple and is layered with purple fruit, sweet spice and cigarbox flavours. It has very nice balance and a long sweet, smooth finish.
Delicious!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 6th, 2010

This wine is made from grapes harvested from vines 50+ years old. It offers aromas of warm raspberry and blueberry, floral notes with cedar and spicebox. The juicy berry fruit reappears on the palate, the texture is smooth and it lingers with spice and vanilla across the finish.
Very good value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

There's no lack of ripe fruit and supple sweetness in this blend of 60/40 Shiraz~Cab - it has aromas of mixed black berry jam with eucalypt and vanilla, chocolate and fruitcake spices. The palate is juicy and plush as well - raspberry and black berries, chocolate and cola spice - smooth, fruity and very easy quaffing.
Will pair well with sweet and spicy barbecue sauces, burgers, pizza...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

Twisted Tree's second label is named for the winery's location, found at the second crossing of Long Creek and Highway 3 just east of Osoyoos. And like Long Creek, this wine will only flow in some years.
The aromas are dark and earthy - plums, black berries and dark chocolate with spice and hints of marzipan. The wine is smooth on the palate with sunbaked earth, black fruit, wild herbs and peppery spices. Very nice structure and balanced acidity with a firm finish.
Nice complexity - well done!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

Penfolds has the uncanny ability to make elegant wines at any price point and they do so, continuously.
The Koonunga Hill Shiraz~Cabernet is made from 70% Shiraz with the remainder being Cab. It is a a wine with aromas of black cherries and plums, chocolate and tobacco, sweet spice and savoury smoke and roasted herbal undertones. Good concentration - the dark juicy fruit reappears on the palate with cocoa and espresso hints, dried herbs, roasted meat and salty spice rub flavours.
A solid red for grilling or rich red sauces on pasta.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah has wonderful complexity and concentration.
Cassis and blackberry, smoke and cedar, hints of violets and sweet spices with a pinch of pepper. The palate provides layers of chocolate, black cherry, blackberry and char grill flavours. It has, lovely acidity a powdery mouth-feel and a firm finish with lingering spiced flavours.
Excellent!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 29th, 2010

The harsh tannic component of the Tannat grape generally makes it difficult to drink as wine without ageing it. Classic to the south of France and Uruguay it is a rare varietal indeed to see grown here in BC.
I was plesantly surprised at the unique qualities of the Twisted Tree Tannat, its potent red fruit, and hearty savoury notes - think sausage and spice rub, wild herbs and earth. It is a tightly wound wine with loads of acidity - juicy red fruit, coffee mixed spice and licorice flavours appear on the palate, the tannins are fine but firm and the finish is long.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 28th, 2010

Decadently rich fruit aromas - cherry jam, cassis liqueur, mint chocolate patties and cola spice notes. Lush, plump and smooth in the mouth - the rich fruit aromas are echoed on the palate, layerd with fruit cake and dense chocolate, sweet spice flavours linger across the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 21st, 2010

This plush Malbec presents fantastic sweet blackberry and cherry aromas, vanilla, fresh herbs and chocolate with just a subtle hint of a savoury core. The palate is wonderfully supple and layered with ripe berries, sweet spice, chocolate and espresso - the finish is smooth.
Nice intensity and very easy drinking.
Pair with mushroom ravioli , crumbly, aged cheese or BBQ.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 21st, 2010

This great value Spanish red is suitable for most of your outdoor grilling adventures.
It presents bold aromas of black fruit and tobacco with peppery spice and earthy undertones. It is a rustic wine that has plenty of acidity with chewy fruit and loads of peppery spice followed by a firm, dusty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 20th, 2010

This fruit-bomb Shiraz has just a splash of Viognier blended in and it releases aromas of blackberry and raspberry, vanilla and fruitcake spices with eucalypt notes. The palate is supple and juicy with plenty of sweet berry fruit, cocoa, espresso and leather followed by spice and cedar-y hints on the finish. A perfect wine for grilling when you are using a sweet, spicy and tangy barbecue sauce.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 18th, 2010

This red blend has a nice bright ruby hue and aromas of sweet red berries and chocolate, licorice and a core of char-grill and wild herbs. It is medium-bodied and smooth in the mouth with juicy fruit, vanilla, chocolate and spice. Very fresh and very affordable - perfectly priced for a BBQ party.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 17th, 2010

This is a simple and affordable, everyday table wine with aromas of smoke, blackberries and chocolate with hints of vanilla, cedar and licorice. It has a smooth texture and earthy flavours layered with chocolate and spice followed by fine lingering tannins.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 15th, 2010

This British Columbia based winery makes sure you know what the story is by stating produced and cellared in New Westminster BC with grapes from the USA on their front label.
The wines are all very impressive - especially this Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre blend. It is undeniably opulent and succulent with aromas of maraschino cherries, sweet spices and rich chocolate with toffee notes. The palate is concentrated with dense berry/cherry, espresso and cocoa flavours, it is luscious and smooth leaving a trail of spice lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 15th, 2010

In this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with 30% Carmenere you can expect aromas of black currents and vanilla, rich dark chocolate, grilled red peppers and cinnamon spice. The palate is supple with very nice complexity. In the mouth flavours fof dark berries and cherries co-mingle with chocolate and tobacco. It has fine firm tannins and a lengthy, spiced cocoa finish.
Very good!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 11th, 2010

Emiliana is the leader in organic and biodynamic viticulture in Chile and large scale biodynamic leaders world-wide -having visited, I know they take this stuff very seriously!
This recently released 2009 Carmenere Reserva is made from organically grown grapes and offers excellent value. It presents aromas of red berries and cherries, chocolate and sweet licorice with a core of dried herbs and roasted red pepper. The palate is smooth and fresh, sweet fruit pops through mid-palate layered with bittersweet chocolate, warm spice and tobacco flavours. Nice firm structure and bright acidity with an impressive finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 11th, 2010

Sweet ripe cherries and plummy aromas, warm spices and a core of wild sage, smoked meat and earth. Expect a powdery texture and flavours of black plum and cherry, leather, a hint of prune, coffee liqueur, cigarbox and cocoa. A wine with some built-in age that has nice structure and balance with a long finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

This food-friendly and fruity wine is made from a blend of Portuguese traditional varieties Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) and Tinta Barocca with the unique addition of Pinot Noir. It offers plenty of sweet raspberry and blueberry aromas, vanilla and tobacco with a potpourri of dried flowers and cedar chips. It has nice acidity and juicy berry fruit on the palate cola spices and cedar flavours and a slightly angular finish.
Pair this wine with crusty bread and soft cheese or fish in stewed tomato sauces.
Great value for weekday dinners!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 8th, 2010

A delicious Syrah, the 1884 Reservado presents abundant aromas of blackberry and raspberry with tobacco, chocolate, licorice and sweet spices. It is generous in the mouth with sweet, warm berry flavours followed by a spiced cocoa linger. This crowd pleasing wine has lovely a weight, a seductive, supple texture and smooth finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 7th, 2010

Exceedingly easy to drink this Sobon Estate Zinfandel is made from CCOF, certified organic grapes.
Expect abundant aromas of sour cherries and ripe red berries, dark floral notes, cedar and savoury, peppery spice tones. The palate is supple and offers plump, juicy berries, cocoa and vanilla, tobacco, sweet spice and coffee flavours. Nicely balanced with smooth tannins - delish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 7th, 2010

Surprise! Not all Malbec is made in Argentina - Inniskillin Okanagan winemaker Sandor Mayer does wonders with this grape variety as well...
Expect rich aromas berries and dried cherries, chocolate and licorice with a hint of crushed dark flowers. The palate is dense and concentrated with dark fruit and a savoury mouthful of roasted meat and herbs, cocoa and espresso. Expect nicely balanced acidity and powdery tannins with fine spice lingering on the finish.
Malbec is made for grilled meat or dense pastas.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 6th, 2010

Rich dark fruit and peppery spice aromas with tobacco, earth and fresh wild herbs. The palate although almost brooding, gives up sweet fruit with earth, tobacco and dark cocoa flavours. The texture is powdery, it has impressive power and structure with a nice balance of fruit and acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 5th, 2010

The Quails' Gate Merlot shows primary black berry and plummy aromas, sweet spice and mocha followed with a very savoury core of roasted peppers, sausage and wild sage. Dark and earthy on the palate with plenty of acidity and a powdery texture, you can expect flavours of black fruits, tobacco and spice. It is slightly angular with tight tannins.
Pairing suggestions - braised short ribs or roasted root vegetables
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 4th, 2010

There is 10% Viognier added to this savoury Shiraz.
It offers aromas of grilled meat and smoked spice, red fruit and roasted herbs with a good dose of black pepper. On the palate the sweet red fruit pops up balancing the smoky, savoury flavours. The finish is smooth and bright, lingering with flavours of pepper and coffee.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 4th, 2010

Mostly Malbec with equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot and a dash each of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon this decadent wine presents aromas of sweet maraschino cherry and spiced molten chocolate, crushed flowers and toasted hazelnuts with a meaty, sauvage core. The palate is supple and concentrated with liqueur-like intensity and flavours of espresso, cherries dipped in chocolate and sweet spice. The finish is long and smoky.
Delicious!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 3rd, 2010

A savoury wine meant for hard cheeses or flame grilled meat, the Guinea Fowl is somewhat brooding - dark fruit, roasted coffee beans and bittersweet chocolate with plenty of peppery spice rub aromas and a core of smoked meat. The flavours echo its aromas - sweet, ripe black fruits and layers of savoury spice, herbs and smoky/roasted notes. Nice acidity to balance and smooth tannins on the finish.
Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 2nd, 2010

Gorgeous ripe fruit aromas - blackberries and blueberries, mint chocolate patties and warm spice with a whiff of fragrant dak flowers. The palate is oozong sweet supple fruit and mint, spice, thick dark espresso and chocolate with hints of leather and tobacco. A concentrated wine with balanced acidity and a long juicy finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 2nd, 2010

This tasty and very well-priced, old vine Zin is also very easy drinking.
Aromas of ripe cherries and raspberries, sweet spices and cigarbox are layered with chocolate. It is supple and juicy in the mouth with sweet berry, chocolate, coffee, tealeaves and spice flavours. The finish is completely smooth. This is a wine for a barbecue party it will stand up to any sweet and tangy sauce you can throw at it, and will please a crowd.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 2nd, 2010

A savoury red with ripe aromas of plums and blackberry, sweet spice, vanilla and cocoa with a hint of green bean and charred oak and peppery notes. The fruit aromas are echoed on the palate with toasted spice and cocoa flavours, the finish is bittersweet with lingering toasted oak flavours.
Certainly a wine suited to hard cheeses or dense, grilled meats.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 1st, 2010

Yum - aromas of chocolate covered cherries, blackberry and menthol notes - sunbaked earth and mocha with cedar and licorice. The palate is creamy and quite spiced with lush fruit - cherry, chocolate and peppery spices linger. Dense and concentrated on the palate but with enough acidity to lift and balance.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 30th, 2010

This little brother to Le Grand Vin Osoyoos Larose is quite brawny. Aromas of black fruits and plums, a layer of dried fruit and dark chocolate, espresso and spice with sunbaked earth and a savoury, meaty core. Concentrated but not supple with dark earthy flavours to echo the aromas - coffee and cocoa, tobacco and spice with fine, tight tannins across the palate. The acidity is obvious, the flavours are dense and the finish is lengthy.
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 21st, 2010

This nicely packaged Tempranillo shows sweet red berry and red cherry aromas, spiced cocoa and rich dark earth. It has a solid backbone in the mouth with juicy red fruits, cocoa, earth, cigarbox and fine spice. Nice acidity brightens the palate and smooth tannins round out the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 21st, 2010

The Gamekeeper's Reserve is a wine made for rich dishes - grilled meat and stews.
The aromas are ripe fruit, black currents and cherries, coffee grounds and cocoa with a hint of jalapeno and a savoury core of spice rub, smoked meat and pepper. Full and ripe on the palate with a smooth texture layered with black fruit, chocolate and smoked spice. The finish is long with supple tannins.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 20th, 2010

A historic South African wine producer, Nederburg presents this affordable entry-level Cabernet that releases plenty of blackberry and spiced aromas, it is dense and earthy with black pepper and notes of crushed, dried herbs. Again nice black fruit appears on the palate with spice, chocolate and espresso flavours and savoury layers. It has nice acidity and powdery tannins on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 20th, 2010

Cannonau (you may know it as Grenache or Garnacha) is easily one of my favorite grape varieties.
The Le Bombarde never seems to disappoint with juicy raspberry and crushed floral notes, exotic spice and anise with a hint of herbs. The palate is rich and ripe with supple red fruit, spiced mocha and a hint of tobacco. The finish has a silky linger.
One to impress your guests with - trust me buy more than one.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 14th, 2010

Good option for travel and taking to the cottage this South African Shiraz has aromas of fruitcake spices, dried fruit and chocolate and earth. The palate is smooth with flavour of dark fruit, spiced dark cocoa and hints of char-grill on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 13th, 2010

Gorgeous fruit - cassis and black cherry aromas, spiced chocolate and tobacco with rich dark earth, smoke and garrigue. Sweet cassis and cherry fruit reappears on the palate wrapped in plush chocolate and espresso. A potent wine with balanced acidity and a long, succulent finish.
Simply delicious!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 13th, 2010

One of BC's oldest SKUs, this good value blend is always a reliable option.
Plenty of mixed berry - raspberry and blackberry dominate - cocoa and fine spice with an earthy, herbal core. The palate is juicy, fresh berry flavours, spice and dried herbs with coffee and tobacco lingering on the finish. It is medium-full bodied with great acidity and has a long smooth finale.
Great for weekday dinners or barbecueing.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 11th, 2010

This is a really delicious Shiraz - it lures you in with a combination of sweet and savoury aromas - bright red fruit, smoked meat and spice rub, violets and plenty of white pepper. The palate shows fantastic acidity and is laden with juicy red berries. An elegant wine, medium-bodied with smooth tannins, the finish is long and clean with spice and cigarbox flavours lingering.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 30th, 2010

This affordable and organic red (a classic grape variety to Sicily) presents upfront aromas of ripe berries and vanilla, sweet spice and mocha with a hint of tobacco. The palate is supple and shows juicy berries, spice,chocolate and hazelnut flavours wrapped in powdery tannins and bright acidity.
A nice weekday pasta wine!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

NEW!
Arriving on shelves in May 2010, this charming red blend will impress you with upfront sweet berry and cherry aromas supported by crushed purple flowers, leather, rich dark earth and fine spice. The palate is fresh with plenty of juicy fruit and spice. Very nice acidity and plenty of flavour from start to finish.
A simple, smooth everyday dinner wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

This tasty and affordable red is a summer barbecue sure bet.
You can expect a nose full of purple berries and cherries, creamy chocolate and peppery spice. The palate is fresh and supple, it shows earthy flavours, plenty of dark fruit and savoury roasted peppers and dried herbs. A simple, everyday red with a powdery texture and spice lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

With its fresh, youthful nose (and yet already nicely aged for you) this Coonawarra Cabernet smells of sweet black currents, chocolate and graphite with lifted eucalypt/menthol notes. The palate presents sweet, ripe berries, cola spice, mocha and vanilla - the texture borders on chewy, the tannins are firm, the texture powdery. A substantial wine, with nice extraction and cocoa flavours lingering across the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

This well-priced wine is nicely suited to barbecued foods and rich protein dishes. It has dark earthy fruit notes, cocoa and grilled red peppers, wild herbs and spice. The palate is juicy and fairly smooth with smoked/toasted flavours and an earthy spiced finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

Consistently tasty - this Boekenhoutskloof Syrah has affluent berry aromas - cassis, blackberry and hints of blueberry, sweet chocolate and mint with vanilla and a savoury core of dried, crushed herbs, grilled meat and sweet spices laced with white pepper. The palate is smooth and fresh with plenty of sweet berry flavours, espresso, toasty spice and some char with bittersweet cocoa flavours clinging to the finish.
Very good!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

South Africa puts its stamp on this delicious blend of Cabernet and Merlot - expect smoke and grilled meaty tones layered with black cherry and plums, chocolate and dry earth, wild herbs and a hint of hazelnut. The palate is smooth and spicy and concentrated with flavours of mocha and black fruit, underpinned by smoky, savoury notes. It has nice freshness in the mouth with substantial power and a long spicy finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

Excellent value!
Aromas of molten chocolate and plump raspberries, mint and crushed dark flowers with a core of smoke and minerality. The palate is supple and concentrated - lush berry flavours abound, wrapped in espresso, warm spice, roasted herbs and chocolate. Very nice acidity lifts the flavours, good weight and structure with sweet tannins and a long finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 15th, 2010

Made by Hawkes Bay producer Paritua, the Red Wire and its sibling White Wire are not only new to BC but they are fresh and affordable offerings worth seeking.
The Red Wire is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. It has plenty of sweet, ripe berries, chocolate and spice followed by vanilla and toasted hazelnut with a core of dark earth and wild herbs. A supple wine presenting layers of mixed berries, cocoa and coffee, herbs, green olive and smoky char but it is also nicely balanced with bright acidity.
Very tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 12th, 2010

A sweet and spicy Malbec with gobs of juicy red and black berries, violets and oak spice with hints of vanilla. The palate is medium to full-bodied and bright with layers of forest berries, espresso and spice. The texture is smooth, the tannins are ripe and sweet.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 11th, 2010

This organic wine from Mendoza's higher and slightly cooler Tupungato Valley shows appealing aromas of blackberries and chocolate, plummy notes and toffee with savoury base of dark earth, smoked meat and dried herbs. The palate is bright and fresh, black fruits and spice dominate with chocolate and roasted coffee flavours as support. The finish is long and smooth, toasted and spiced oak flavours linger.
Suitable for barbecuing and rich pasta dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 9th, 2010

New on my radar this attractively dressed, galvanized textured bottle contains a blend of Grenache & Syrah and presents very concentrated aromas of chocolate mint patties, ripe berries and cherry, violets and sweet, warm spices. The palate is round and smooth with chocolate, berry and cola spice flavours. An affordable, crowd-pleasing wine, great for barbecuing or parties.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 9th, 2010

This Malbec is blended with 16% of Argentina's "other red grape" Bonarda and 12% Syrah. It persuades you with sweet cherry and blueberry aromas, warm spice, vanilla, chocolate and hints of tobacco leaf. The palate is fresh, there are plenty of ripe berry flavours, espresso and spice with a savoury backbone. A supple, well-made wine with good acidity and a long smooth finish.
Very Tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 5th, 2010

Made mostly from Pinotage with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Mourvedre and Petit Verdot this delicious Stellenbosch blend presents aromas of vibrant red fruit and white pepper, choco/mocha and grilled herbs, mixed spices and hickory smoke. The juicy red fruit is echoed on the palate alongside flavours of smoked spices, bacon fat and bittersweet chocolate. Fantastc acidity, powdery tannins and lingering flavours of coffee trail on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 26th, 2010

The Round Hill releases gobs of ripe cassis and Ribena aromas with hints of dried fruits and mocha and undertones of jalapeno. Smooth on the entry, similar cassis and dried fruit appears on the palate supported by sweet spice, green olive and vanilla flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 26th, 2010

This concentrated blend of Malbec with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Syrah will impress you as much as it's new neck-tag label.
President Juan Peron and his wife Evita were fond of one of Escorihuela's red blends in the 1940s, this wine pays homage to that era with its broad and powerful characteristics - aromas of smoke and bittersweet chocolate, rich black fruit and a savoury core of green olives, roasted herbs and grilled meat. A dense palate with a lot of depth, layering black fruit, espresso and dark cocoa with plenty of spice. The texture is powdery, almost granular, the tannins are chewy and the finish lingers with flavours of toasted oak.
A brawny wine that will benefit from cellar time.
A wine made for Asado (Argentine barbecue).
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 12th, 2010

This is a savoury wine suited to savoury dishes like game meats and rich meaty stews. It opens with primary aromas of blackberry and black cherry with just a hint of dark flowers followed by savoury leather, dark spice and herbs with a core of char grilled meat. There is plenty of juicy berry flavours on the palate layered with sweet chocolate, earth and roasted coffee, spice lingers on the finish.
Syrah, Mourvedre and Viognier
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 3rd, 2010

One for the barbecue.
Aromas are cherries in vanilla and plums with sweet spice followed by savoury notes - sauvage, roasted herbs, mocha and char grill. The palate entry is fresh with a mix of tart red fruit and berries before the savoury layers kick in - grilling meat, smoke and dried herbs. The finish is smooth the flavours meaty, the oak just peeks through but does not overwhelm the wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 2nd, 2010

With its typical Okanagan Valley savoury character the Inniskillin Merlot presents red cherry and plummy hints, grilled herbs, oak spice and dry earth, hints of cocoa and a good dose of char. The palate follows suit with savoury herbal and meaty flavours, spice and toasted oak. It has nice bright acidity and toasted oak flavours linger on the finish - decanting recommended.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 2nd, 2010

Made by Cumulus Wines in New South Wales this easy drinking Shiraz has jammy aromas of black berry and ripe black cherry, vanilla and mocha laced with cola spices. Medium to full-bodied and juicy with plenty of berry and vanilla flavours, espresso and chocolate mint patties.
A crowd-pleasing Aussie red.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 27th, 2010

This very consumer friendly, tasty blend of Shiraz with 25% Cabernet and 10% Merlot presents chocolate covered cherry aromas with toasted oak, warm peppery spices, leather and mint with espresso undertones. The palate is dense and berry laden - molten chocolate and dark espresso flavours round out the palate - it is quite chewy throughout, followed by a supple finish with toffee flavours lingering.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 13th, 2010

Perhaps not so "Evil", this Aussie Cabernet is oozing brambly berries, smoke and chocolate aromas with hints of blueberry and a core of dark earth, mixed spices and tobacco leaf. The palate has a powdery texture and echoes the nose with flavours of dark cocoa, spice and tobacco. There is plenty of acidity, the mid-palate is firm and dusty tannins appear on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 12th, 2010

The Vintner's Blend is an amalgamation of Zinfandel grapes from an assortment of vineyards around California. It is an aromatic mix of blueberry, raspberry and cherry with a warm smoky core of spiced chocolate, coffee and espresso. The palate is spicy and supple, oozing mixed berries, cedar and mocha flavours, the finish is firm with and lingers with powdery tannins.
Very tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 12th, 2010

Made from Cabernet Sauvignon with a good dose of Cabernet Franc and small amounts of both Carmenere and Syrah, this dense wine provides aromas of rich dark berries, smoky cocoa and vanilla wrapped around a core of roasted coffee beans, toasted oak and tobacco. The palate is full and almost chewy, laden with spiced chocolate, dark espresso and leathery flavours and dark fruit. Expect a balanced wine with nice acidity and powdery tannins on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 10th, 2010

Like a growing number of wines in Argentina, this one is made under the famed consultancy of Michel Rolland (who has also left his stamp on juice all over the world) you can expect warm, ripe fruit aromas of plums and dark berries, cinnamon and spiced cocoa, savoury toasted herbs and dark earth. In the mouth this Malbec is sweet and supple with concentrated flavours of berries, spice and chocolate, the finish is long and powdery tannins linger.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 8th, 2010

This high altitude Monastrell entices and digs deep with smoky carob, dark earth and wild savoury herbs and pepper aromas but it doesn't lack fruit - cherry and berry with just a hint of licorice lift the nose. The palate is smooth and smoky, it presents layers of shaved dark chocolate, hazelnuts and rich berry flavours - it will never bore you!
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - December 18th, 2009

This old-world styled Syrah from the Osoyoos winery Twisted Tree has a mix of black and red berry aromas, and wild herbs, spice, leather and bacon fat. The palate is medium-bodied, it has firm tannins and plenty of juicy red fruit with layers of cocoa and espresso flavours and a hint of toasted oak on the finish.
Pair with game meats or rich bean stews.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - December 7th, 2009

Fantastic ripe briary berries, loads of violets and rich chocolate with minty/eucalypt and roasted coffee aromas. This Shiraz screams Aussie style - it's opulent but not overblown with a fine dusty texture, the fruit is juicy, not over-ripe, and the oak is balanced. Flavours of berries, chocolate and mint, minerals and cedar with warm baking spice flavours lingering on the finish with sweet ripe tannins.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - December 4th, 2009

A stand up version of Cabernet in British Columbia.
Expect aromas of juicy currents, hints of purple fruits, cigarbox, vanilla and chocolate with earthy/leathery undertones. It is bright on the entry with fresh black and red currents, wild herbs and plenty of oak and char grilled flavours on the finish with ripe tannins lingering. A firm hand on the oak use - hopefully it will calm with a bit of time.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 26th, 2009

A blend of 70% Merlot from the Casablanca Valley and equal parts of Carmenere from the Rapel Valley and Cabernet from the Maipo Valley the Trio is a very masculine wine made for dense protein dishes.
Aromas of grilled herbs and roasted red peppers, red fruit and parched earth with charred smoky undertones. The palate is supple, it grabs hold, it's very chewy and savoury with mixed wild berries and pomegranate flavours, pepper and earth with a long smooth finish.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

From Escorihuela, who also produces Argentina's Don Miguel Gascon wines.
The Circus Cabernet has appealing savoury and fruity aromas of cherries, cassis, vanilla and sweet spice aromas with smoke and grilled meat lifted by fresh herbal notes. It has youthful freshness and a smooth texture with red fruit, spicy herbal flavours, a hint of roasted pepper and tobacco. Nice structure and a rounded palate leads to smooth tannins and spiced oak flavours on the finish.
A solid weekday dinner wine option.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 10th, 2009

Generous plums and sweet cherry aromas, plenty of baking spices and hints of banana and vanilla. The palate is smoky and sweet - meat and mocha with intense black fruits. The palate is smooth with lifting acidity and fine cocoa tannins on the finish.
A tasty mid-week barbecue or pizza wine.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 3rd, 2009

A good value wine, full-bodied and powerful with aromas of blackberries, chocolate and bay leaf with toasted spice, hints of vanilla and crushed flowers and a core of savoury, smoked meaty tones. You'll find sweet, ripe berry fruit on the palate with loads of leathery and spiced flavours. It has good acidity and fairly coarse tannins that will benefit from decanting.
Pair with grilled meat or hearty bean and eggplant dishes.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - October 20th, 2009

Tinhorn Creek is celebrating 15 years in 2009 and part of that celebration includes new labels like the one you see here.
This 2007 Merlot has aromas of smoked plums, cherries and saddle leather with undertones of spiced cocoa. It is medium-bodied with a soft palate and powdery tannins. Expect flavours of cherries, roasted coffee beans and mocha with spice flavours lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - October 19th, 2009

Made from 80 year old biodynamically farmed Garnacha, this intoxicating red oozes crushed floral and raspberry/blueberry aromas, licorice and chocolate. The palate is brimming with sweet cherry fruit, spice, tobacco and mocha, it's supple and full on the palate, has loads of bright acidity and a smooth spiced finish.
Excellent value - tapas anyone?
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 14th, 2009