A fresh, verdant Sauvignon Blanc with a fantastic price tag.
Aromas of nettle, grass clippings and gooseberry, green papaya and passionfruit with a whiff of jalapeno. There is a hint of sweetness on the palate and it is not a shy wine - it's loaded flavours of nettle, snap peas and citrus peel that linger through the finish.
A very affordable crowd-pleaser.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 7th, 2010

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

An affordable and charming wine, this Semillon and Chardonnay blend presents aromas of melon and honey, lanolin and citrus with a smoky core. It has nice concentration and clings to the palate; there are plenty of toasty flavours layered with lemon, herbs, melon and spice. The finish is long and zesty with hints of lemonbalm.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - September 7th, 2010

This easy-drinking white blend from Australia's Canonbah Bridge Estate has loads of citrus peel aromas, honeycomb and minerals with guava. On the palate, the fruit pops - clean and crisp with great acidity and some tropical and citrus juice flavours.
A refreshing, affordable white for any occassion!
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 14th, 2009

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

This very affordable Chardonnay is toasty - roasted spices, browned butter and grilled pineapple with hints of nuts and fresh lemonbalm. The palate is fresh and juicy, flavours of pineapple and citrus are bound in a rounded, slightly creamy palate - the finish is bright and zesty.
©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

This fresh, easy Sauvignon Blanc sparkler will impress you with its solid varietal character.
The aromas are of crisp citrus fruits, nettle and fresh herbs, green apples and delicate floral notes with a hint of honey. A hint of sweetness on the palate is balanced by lively acidity and flavours of citrus and tart green apple are wrapped in a moussy mouthful of bubbles. The finish is smooth and with a citrus peel finish.
Good value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 22nd, 2010

And for you Riesling drinkers who like just a bit more honey in your glass, the Gehringer Classic Riesling offers peach jelly, ginger and candied citrus peel aromas. It is full and quite ripe in the mouth with loads of pink grapefruit and gingery flavours that lead to a long and zesty finish.
Samosas dipped in spicy peach/ginger chutney will pair nicely with this wine.
Another good value Gehringer Riesling!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 20th, 2010

I really love the delicate aromas in this wine...the soft honey and peach with more obvious gala apple and floral notes are very appealing. Iit is crisp, dry and light-bodied with bright lime and grapefruit flavours - finish is long and zesty but not aggressive. Perfect served with agadashi tofu or rice topped with a spicy peanut/curry sauce.
Excellent value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 20th, 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

From Artisan Wine Company's portfolio of wines this Sauvignon Blanc presents tropical fruit, vanilla, honey and sweet citrus aromas. The palate is juicy and sweet too - an echo of its aromas - tropical fruit, honey, sweet citrus and vanilla with just a suggestion of zest on the finish. Simple and fun.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 6th, 2010

This is a delicious wine made from vineyards that have not seen the use of fertilizer or insecticides for more than 25 years and are currently in transition to organic.
It is a feminine wine, presenting aromas of forest berries and crushed flowers, white pepper and rosemary. The palate is brimming with sweet, high-toned fruit, mixed spice and cedary flavours. It is full and expressive with fine, firm tannins clinging to the finish. Pair this wine with Mediterranean dishes or aged, crumbly goat cheese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 6th, 2010

From the Artisan Wine Company's portfolio, this consumer friendly and value-priced Pinot Gris has confectionary aromas of candied pear, honey and citrus blossoms. The palate is a a sweet fruit-cup of slightly over-ripe tree fruits with a good dose of acidity to clean up.
Affordable by-the-case for a party.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 6th, 2010

A simple, rustic wine from Sicily's most important red grape, Nero d'Avola. It expresses earthy and savoury aromas of black fruit, leather and tobacco with a core of char-grill and smoked meat. The palate echoes the aromas, it has spicy fruit, tobacco and dry earthy flavours with loads of acidity and fine firm tannins on the finish.
A wine made for dense pastas, salami and firm cheese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 28th, 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

Great value!
Expect verdant grassy notes with passionfruit, juicy citrus and a hint of peach. The palate is tart, crisp and fresh, a mix of tropical and citrus fruit flavours spiked with jalapeno and culminating in a mouthwatering finish. Pair with fresh fish, greens tossed in vinagrette or goat cheese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 26th, 2010

Sporting a new label (read the story on the back label) and a new, lighter coloured bottle the Poacher's White still retains its freshness and value.
Lemons and honeysuckle, a hint of sweet herbs and a whiff of talc. The palate is mouthwateringly crisp with layers of lemon meringue, honey and tangerine peel - a fruitcup of flavours linger on the finish.
Very good!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 26th, 2010

From the Perrin family of the Rhone Valley, this great value red is made from Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault and Syrah - all varietals classic to Cotes du Ventoux's Rhone home.
Expect very attractive aromas of juicy black cherry and berry, licorice and sweet spices, violets and cedar chips with chocolate hints...
Ripe and juicy on the palate with bittersweet chocolate and coffee flavours and hints of char on the finish - an affordable, unassuming and very tasty everyday red.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

Yalumba's Oxford Landing produces this fresh, fragrant Pinot Gris. It releases aromas of minerals and creamy pears, nectarine and rich honey with herbal notes and a hint of toast. The palate is lively, an echo of crisp white fruit, citrus, herbal and toasted flavours with a mouth-watering and zesty finish.
Tasty and a good value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 15th, 2010

This fragrant blend of Malvasia Bianca, Muscat, Viognier, Gruner Veltliner and Pinot Grigio (accoding to the label) is a fantastic value and offers a great balance of aromatics, fruit and acidity.
Ripe mango and peach aromas, grapefruit and orange blossoms with warm spice and candied notes. The palate presents gobs of sweet apricot and peaches, honey and mouth-watering citrus followed with exotic spice. A nice lush texture with lively acidity makes this wine a fantastic sipper, or pair with fresh, spicy dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 8th, 2010

Very good value!
This fresh, light Sauvignon Blanc has peachy hints with citrus, sweet grass and a hint of vanilla on the nose. The palate has a slightly vivace tickle with nice crisp white fruit and citrus flavours. A simple sipper for the patio or pair with fresh shellfish and summer salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 7th, 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

This Ecocert certified organic wine trods the fine line of creamy and fresh very well.
Crisp apple and pear aromas layered with sweet praline, mineral, honeycomb and citrus notes. The palate is creamy and smooth offering pear compote and warm spice, vanilla and bright citrus flavours. The finish is mouth-watering and spicy...
Very tasty!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 5th, 2010

This very fragrant blend of 65% aromatic Traminer and 35% crisp Riesling is made for spicy dishes.
Lychee and rose oil aromas dominate layered with honeyed Turkish Delight, orange and grapefruit peel. The flavours are quite confectionary - sweet tropical fruit and preserved peaches, lots of sweet spice and a lively citrussy finish. It has a nice creamy texture with mouth-watering acidity to assist in cleaning up the sweetness on the palate.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 2nd, 2010

One full litre of value, this rustic food wine from the DOC Villetri provides aromas of cherries and leather, cedar, spicebox and earth with an undertone of tar. There is plenty of juicy cherry flavours on the palate with the same spicebox and leather that echo the nose.
Made from Cesanese, Montepulciano and Sangiovese.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 28th, 2010

The unique Argentine grape variety, Torrontes produces a supremely aromatic wine. The Circus presents a fragrant bouquet of stone fruit, lime leaf and exotic flowers with a spicy core. The texture is slick, it's a weighty, potent white with plenty of lime peel, mineral, stone fruit and marshmallow flavours peppered with spice. Impressive concentration and lively acidity throughout.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 22nd, 2010

Another easy-sipping white from [yellow tail] this fragrant Pinot Grigio smells of fresh pears and honey, orchard blossoms and a hint of talc. The palate is creamy but very lively with ripe orchard fruit and citrus flavours.
©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

Aromas of sunwarmed peaches and lemon-lime, honey and exotic flower notes with just a hint of herbs. The palate has plenty of rich honeyed and pomelo citrus flavours. Very easy sipping with a mouth-watering 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

A solid value and always consistent rose made of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah from mountainside vineyards in the southern Rhone Valley appellation of Ventoux.
Pretty aromas of berries in cream, violets and sweet spice with cherry notes. The palate dry but the berry fruit is ripe and sweet, hints of vanilla custard and fine spicebox flavours linger. Great acidity and a brilliant ruby red colour.
Great value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 18th, 2010

Great value!
This vibrant and juicy Sauv Blanc presents grapefruit, cut grass, white flowers and sweet herbal tones, minerals and lemon zest. The palate is clean and taut with plenty of bright citric and mineral flavours. A very pleasing and affordable everyday drinking wine or pair it with a fresh greens and chevre salad.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 16th, 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

Great value!
A simple, fun sipping wine with low alcohol and just a prickle of vivace bubble on the tongue. Light ruby in colour it is a fresh wine that presents aromas of juicy cherry and red berries, vanilla and hints of peach pit. The palate is very juicy, it is off-dry but provides lively acidity to balance the sweetness. The bright peachy/berry flavours return on the palate with a zesty 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 simple, everyday wine with plenty of sweet cherry and blueberry aromas, sweet spice and a layer of earthiness. The palate is sweet and supple with berry and chocolate flavours, a hint of tar and a sprinkling of herbs with spiced cocoa flavours lingering.
A very easy drinking wine great for a group barbecue.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - June 2nd, 2010

This unoaked Chardonnay is subtitled the Townsend Jack to pay homage to the White Tailed Jack Rabbit (aka Townsend Jack) now extinct from its natural habitat, the Osoyoos dessert.
It is simply fresh and fruity - peachy, grapefruit and starfruit aromas, the palate is off-dry with a pleasing rounded weight and juicy flavours of citrus, tree fruits and a hint of banana.
A simple, fresh quaffer with nicely balanced acidity.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 20th, 2010

Fun!
Here is a perfect summer sipper that will also pair well with Proscuitto di Parma and Parmagiano or a nice mixed antipasti platter.
This historical wine from Modena is a simple grape-y berry flavoured red frizzante (slightly bubbly) with an off-dry but balanced palate, nice weight and just a suggestion of tannin.
Chill it down and enjoy it all summer, the 8% alcohol is a blessing on hot summer days and the price makes it an easy buy-by-the-case wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 18th, 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

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 very affordable Sauvignon Blanc from California's famous Gallo Family Vineyards will impress you with its all around flavour and value. Obvious grassy and herbal notes with white peaches and citrus aromas. The palate is fresh - it is simple and juicy with herbs and crisp tree fruit flavours. The finish is tart and zesty.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 1st, 2010

Once again, Gallo Family Vineyards has produced an affordable and crowd pleasing wine that is perfect for your sumer parties. It has plenty of rich tropical fruit aromas sorrounded by vanilla caramels and oak spice. The palate is sweet - laden with similar pineapple and melon, vanilla and butterscotch with clove and cinnamon. Round and creamy with a bright apple-y finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

Not only a good value sipper, but a wine that supports a very worthy cause. Having just celebrated one year since it's first release I watched recently as a $100,000 cheque was handed over to beneficiaries in support ecosystem conservation of the Great Bear Rainforest and Spirit Bears. In fact 15% of all sales from the WhiteBear Wines go to this important cause.
The Pinot Blanc is a refreshing white with crisp tree fruit, mineral and floral notes. The palate presents sweet apple and pear fruit flavours and hints of herbs with peachy flavours lingering on the finish.
A great everyday quaffer and very affordable too.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 29th, 2010

One in this series of wines from Artisan Wine Co. which rally behind the Okanagan Valley and its history, this Sauvignon Blanc is subtitled the Council's Punch Bowl in an homage to the lake, discovered in the mid 1800s by Hudson's Bay Company's Alexander Caulfield Anderson.
Across the board these wines are excellent value, they provide fruity, refreshing wines for everyday drinking and they do not pretend to anything more.
This is a very pretty wine with aromas of flowers and tangerine, honey and peach with grapefruit peel and just a hint of cut grass. The palate echos the sweet fruit of the nose, it is lively and fresh with a rounded texture and a zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 28th, 2010

This richly-hued white blend is a fresh and affordable everyday wine.
It presents plenty of citrus on the nose, melon and pineapple aromas with tones of spice, grapefruit peel and herbs. Bright and zesty on the palate it has a slightly creamy texture and flavours of cut grass, fresh herbs, pineapple and grapefruit with hints of vanilla.
Nicely balanced and very easy drinking!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 2010

Don't let its classic blue label fool you, inside is a vibrant, vivace wine that you should consider buying-by-the-case!
Bright tree fruit, mineral and citric aromas lead the way to a fresh, vivace (slightly bubbly or prickly) and crisp mouthful of goodness. Again tree fruits, citrus, hints of herbs mineral, appear on the palate with just a kiss of sweetness balanced by lively acidity and a softly rounded texture.
Great value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 27th, 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

This Chilean Sauvignon Blanc has loads of typical grassy, verdant herbal, nettle and green apple aromas, with lemon-lime, passionfruit and elderflower notes. The palate is snappy and fresh with sweet passionfruit and tart citric flavours. A very good value wine with a mouth-watering, zesty finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 26th, 2010

Coppery salmon in colour the JeanJean in its recognizable undulating bottle smells of brambly berry fruit, sour cherry and cedar, tobacco and Szechuan peppercorns. The palate is tart with bright acidity, red berry, spice and herbal flavours linger on the finish.
This is a dry rose, priced to buy-by-the-case, that will pair nicely with fish, fresh summer salads or chevre.
©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

This affordable German Riesling is a perfect sushi or summer salad wine with its bright aromas of citrus and apricot, delicate blossoms and crisp green apple with mineral tones. Apricot and green apple flavours reappear on the palate alongside tart lemon drops. A kiss of sweetness lingers in the mouth but is cleaned up with bright acidity plus the alcohol is only 9% - perfect for warm summer afternoons.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 19th, 2010

This affordable Shiraz is made for food.
Leaning more toward the savoury side, it releases aromas of red berries and vanilla, licorice and chocolate with a meaty core of dried herbs and spice rub. The palate is more reserved - juicy on the entry with mineral and earth, dark cocoa and spice linger across the palate. Pair with grilled meats, stews or hearty pasta dishes.
*Graffigna is the oldest established winery in San Juan province, just north of Mendoza.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 16th, 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

Buy it by the case!
When I poured this wine into a glass and gave it a sniff, the first words out of my mouth were wow! Effusive aromas that will lure you back again and again. It has a faint peachy tone that matches its fragrance - pretty star fruit, spring blossoms and peach stone, tangerine peel and talc with a hint of anise. The palate is snappy and crisp with a slightly slick texture. Peach stone and flavours return on the palate, it has an impression of sweetness and bitter almond flavours lingering on the finish.
Fantastic value!
A blend of Gargenega, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Bianco
©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

The label has changed, a bit. It no longer peels away from the bottle and the legs don't dance as you move it from side-to-side.
It is a crowd-pleasing red with sweet spice, sunwarmed berries - raspberry, blueberry and blackberry - vanilla and chocolate with hints of wild flowers. The palate follows suit with plenty of berry, cocoa and coffee flavours, it is simple and juicy, a good value every day drinking wine with a spicy tobacco finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 9th, 2010

From the cooler reaches, the southernmost part of Argentina's traditional winegrowing regions in Patagonia, this expressive red flirts with aromas of purple berry jam, crushed lilac, vanilla and sweet cola spices. The palate echoes the nose's fruity expression, vanilla, chocolate and cedar chip flavours follow suit and it finishes smooth and sweetly spiced.
Good value consumer friendly wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - April 8th, 2010

A 2008 trip to South Africa sold me on their Chenin Blancs (I just wish we got more here) and it's diverse styles. Chenin can be bracingly crisp and fresh, lush and leesy or ripe and toasty - depending on the producer and winemaking style.
The Spier is a fresh style - a fruitcup of creamy pear and guava with a hint of dried pineapple, citrus blossoms, grass clippings and chalky minerality. The palate is crisp, with just a kiss of sweetness, snappy tropical fruit, citrus, soft mineral and herbal flavours linger. Clean and zesty - a great value!!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 10th, 2010

Here is your Monday-Thursday pasta wine - a Montepulciano D'Abruzzo with rich warm aromas of cherries and espresso, a hint of iodine, leather and sunbaked earth and a core of chocolate shavings and dried herbs. The palate reflects the aromas - chocolate and savoury spices, plum and cherry flavours, just a suggestion of dried fruit with char, cigarbox and spice lingering on the finish.
A simple, juicy and smooth weekday dinner wine.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 9th, 2010

A dark ruby in colour the Misterio Malbec releases primary smoked aromas - char-grill, meaty tones and spiced cocoa layered with blackberry, warm raspberry and toffee notes. It is smooth, medium-full bodied and peppery with plenty of savoury and sauvage flavours, mixed berry and mocha. The finish is juicy and lingers with flavours of cigar box and fine spice.
A good value weekday wine for hearty meals.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 3rd, 2010

This is a fruit forward Shiraz with layers of blackberry, cherry and a whiff of blueberry, plenty of chocolate and dark roasted coffee with a core of peppery spice notes. That dark, roasted theme follows through on the palate - it is savoury and spicy with juicy red and black fruit, grilled herbs and vauge meaty flavours linger with spice on the finish.
A wine for the BBQ.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - March 3rd, 2010

A consistently good value and satisfying partner to creamy mushroom risotto or chicken salad.
The Lurton Pinot Gris is a visually appealing, peachy hue, its aromas are reminiscent of wild flowers, creamy orchard fruits and citrus. The palate is simply refreshing with a rounded, weighted texture and flavours of pear, nectarine, citrus peel and minerals. The finish is clean and zesty.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 12th, 2010

This fresh, simple sipper smells of orchard fruits, talc and spring blossoms. The palate reveals apples and creamy pear flavours flowers and Earl Grey tea with mineral tones - it is crisp with a lovely soft round texture and nice weight.
A hot tub sipper, or pair this wine with seafood or salads.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 5th, 2010

Pink bubbles are not just for Valentine's Day and this one is affordable enough to sip every day.
It is a vibrant colour with exuberant black current and strawberry aromas. You can expect a soft mousse and a kiss of sweetness with flavours of cassis and wild berries, juicy citrus, a hint of cigarbox. Bright, crisp and refreshing.
Very good value.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 5th, 2010

Like it's siblings Emotivo Pinot Grigio and Montepulciano this blush-rose offers a straight forward sipper, simple and very affordable.
It is blushing pink in clour with peachy, berry aromas, a hint of soft floral and a spritz of citrus. It is crisp on the entry with friendly maraschino cherry, peach and citric flavours. It's not a dry rose by any stretch, but a nice dose of acidity on the finish helps to cleanse the palate.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 4th, 2010

You can expect sweet youthful aromas on this affordable BC Merlot - juicy berries and red plums, fresh mocha and an earthy core. The palate has plenty of bright fruit, it is medium-bodied with a powdery texture - spicy tannins and toasted oak flavours linger on the finish.
Easy sipping or pair with rich, mildly spiced stews.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - February 3rd, 2010

Another great value Gallo Family wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon has bright aromas of sweet cherries and berries, vanilla, dried herbs and chocolate with significant cola spice notes. The palate follows suit with loads of berry fruit - blueberry and raspberry - plenty of vanilla and spice with a sprinkling of tobacco leaf.
Simple, smooth and easy sipping.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 31st, 2010

A bright, juicy Chardonnay with abundant creamy pear, stone fruit and pineapple in vanilla syrup, talc and orange blossom aromas. The plate is vibrant - sweet and spicy with plenty of orange water and exotic spice anchored with stone fruit and lingering citrus flavours.
A fun, fragrant patio wine...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 27th, 2010

An appealing golden shade, this nicely priced and very refreshing Chardonnay has aromas of ripe pear and hints of brulee, crisp apple and citric aromas. The palate is nicely balanced with the requisite oakspice and caramel offset by bright acidity, tangy fruit and citrus peel flavours. It has a rounded texture with a creamy edge and a nicely spiced finish spiked with clove and zest.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 27th, 2010

Always a very good value, this German bubbly is bright and mousse-y with aromas of marmalade and green apple, peaches and spring blossoms, a hint of talc and slate. The palate is vibrant and juicy with mouth-filling bubbles and sweet fruit and citrus peel. It is off-dry with a decently long and crisp finish.
Great as an aperitif or in coctails.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 25th, 2010

This is a well-priced weekday pasta wine - simple and juicy with a bright ruby colour, cherry fruit aromas with leather, sunbaked earth and cocoa powder notes with a very savoury core of tomato leaf and dried herbs. The palate is juicy, loads of acidity and tart red fruit with more leather and spice following suit on the palate.
Pair with salami and cheese or pastas in red sauce.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 25th, 2010

I have to admit, there is nothing appealing to me about this bottle. The labels on the newly released Strut wines seem contrived and frankly callow. But it is what is in the bottle that I review, and review I have...
A blend of Okanagan VQA Gamay, Pinot Noir, Ehrenfelser and Schonberger, this brilliant cranberry-hued wine has aromas of wild berries and herbs, peppery spices and citrus. The palate is expectedly off-dry - but not cloyingly sweet - there is plenty of bright citrus and cran-rhubarb flavours.
A simple, fun and fresh rose sipper that pairs well with spicy Indian dishes.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 25th, 2010

A fresh, balanced Chardonnay with plenty of citrus and tree fruit flavours rounded out with oak spice and vanilla. The palate is crisp, the oak flavours don't overwhelm, soft fruit, citrus and fine spice dominate with nutty hints. A simple, easy-drinking weekday white to pair with creamy pasta or chicken salad.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 23rd, 2010

Great value, this plush sipper has rich dark berry fruit, chocolate shavings and brewed coffee with a hint of purple flowers and dark earth. The palate is smooth, full and rounded with loads of dark berries and powdery cocoa flavours with a spicy linger.
Easy drinking and affordable.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 22nd, 2010

A Monday to Thursday spaghetti wine - sufficiently rustic with cherries, fine spice, floral and red plum aromas with a core of forest floor and saddle leather. The palate is simple and smooth presenting juicy red fruit - which will work nicely with red sauces - sunbaked earth and meaty hints before fnishing with spice and leathery flavours.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 22nd, 2010

You cannot deny the price tag on the Gallo Family wines - they are easy drinking with at least some varietal character and the Pinot Noir is impressively tasty.
Black cherry and crushed purple floral aromas, cedar chips and fine spice with vanilla. The palate is simple juicy flavours of berry fruit, the texture is smooth with a slightly powdery edge and the finish carries flavours of roasted coffee bean, cedarbox and fine spices.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 22nd, 2010

This is a simple, fresh white with a price tag that will make you giggle.
The aromas are a fruitcup of peaches, pears and apricots with plenty of fresh floral an honey notes. The palate reflects those sweet orchard fruits with citrus to brighten it up - it's very quaffable and light-bodied making it a perfect patio sipper or hot tub wine...
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 22nd, 2010

Always a reliable Pinot Noir that provides some pretty amazing value, the Mirassou has a ripe California style with black cherry and raspberry aromas, cedar, violets and warm spice. The palate is smooth, it has sweet plush, berry flavours with allspice and lingering cigarbox and vanilla flavours on the finish.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 19th, 2010

This is a crisp, light sipper perfect for summer salads, fish or antipasti.
This new Emotivo label contains a very affordable trio which includes a Montepulciano and a Pinot Grigio rose.
It presents aromas of pears and honey, spring blossoms and flinty/mineral notes with a hint of wild herbs. Citrus and mineral flavours lead the palate - it is a fresh, delicate wine with a bright finish.
Simple and very pleasant!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 19th, 2010

Made from a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo this very affordable red is rustic and savoury. Expect aromas of spiced cherries, saddle leather, iodine, purple flowers and hints of dried fruit. The palate is supple with a typical dusty texture, flavours of spiced cocoa, roasted coffee beans and tobacco dominate, toast flavours linger on the finish.
A simple, juicy wine that will be a great weekday option with pastas in red sauce, tapas or strong cheeses.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 18th, 2010

Another great value from the Ganton & Larson project, this aromatic Pinot Blanc is oozing sweet pear and peach compote aromas, marmalade and citrus blossoms with just a pinch of ginger. Snappy and crisp, a sweet fruit forward palate and a zesty citrus finish.
Buy it by the case!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 13th, 2010

This is a fantastic find among BC Rieslings - a pristine version with aromas of crisp apples and apricot, fragrant citrus blossoms and lime peel. The palate is snappy with flavours that echo the aromas - orchard apples and apricots in honey and a mix of lime and pomelo citrus. A juicy wine, buzzing with vibrant acidity and just a kiss of sweetness to take the edge off...
Great value!
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 13th, 2010

A great value weekday meal wine, this white Cotes du Rhone blend of Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Bourboulenc and Roussanne is a savoury and aromatic medley. It releases notes of tart lemon, quince marmalade and beeswax, stone fruit, minerals and wild herbs. The palate is quite oily, weighted but bright with plenty of citrus peel, mineral and marzipan flavours.
A unique wine that partners well to dishes with mushrooms or lemon-herb butter sauces.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 11th, 2010

Expect an affordable bubbly with toasted hints with plenty of fruity notes - apple and apricot hints with some honey and citrus blossoms. The palate is smooth and mousse-y, it is unapologetically off-dry and bright with plenty of apricot jam and citrus with some chalky or talc flavours and a long, pleasant finish.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 10th, 2010

Don't let the "dry" on the label confuse you, this Henkell is more sweet than dry, but that shouldn't be a deterrent.
Ripe apricots, honey and citrus blossom aromas, mouth-filling mousse and loads of sweet fruit with grapefruit flavours on the finish.
Will pair well with spiced dishes or use in your brunch mimosas.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 22nd, 2009

This Viognier is an energetic bottle of fun that releases pretty aromas of peaches and Asian pear, soft floral notes and very subtle spice. The palate is juicy (with impressive concentration for the price) and flavours of tart citrus and stone fruit. It has a long, solid and spicy finish. Pair with fish in mildly spiced sauces or light curries.
This very affordable go-to white is fantastic for sipping or mid-week meals and it promises to be a crowd pleaser at parties.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 8th, 2010

The 120 series of Santa Rita's portfolio provides very affordable, consumer friendly wines. This one shows classic Merlot typicity - plush black cherry and plummy aromas with a heart of chocolate, dark earth and bay leaf. It flows smoothly across your palate, has a nice round texture and rich flavours of dark fruit, cocoa, vanilla and sweet spice. Spice flavours continue on the finish alongside a trace of dried herbs.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 8th, 2010

This uniquely packaged blend of Primitivo with 30% Negroamaro is a fruity quaffer that hails from Puglia, in the heel of the Italian boot.
It has lush purple fruit, sweet vanilla, crushed flowers and sweet spices. It's a supple wine with simple forward fruit, mocha and grapey flavours with a powdery texture.
©copyright 2010 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - January 8th, 2010

A 50/50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, this densely coloured red has appealing raspberry and blackberry aromas, sweet vanilla and cinnamon, mint chocolate patties and pepper with tobacco leaf undertones. Fantastic acidity on the palate, it is a supple, mouth-filling wine with plenty of fruit, chocolate and sweet spice flavours and fine tannins on the finish.
A very good value weekday red option to pair with meat or rich pastas.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

This well priced Italian cousin of Zinfandel has loads of red fruits - cherries and plums - with smoked hints, saddle leather and iodine with chocolate and espresso undertones.The palate is simple and rustic but satisfying with layered flavours of pomegranate, red currents, fine cedarbox spices and tobacco lingering on the finish. It's a smooth wine with nice balance.
Good value!
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

Excellent Value!
It's rare to be able to purchase a wine that has some cellar age on it - more so at a price like this...
A blend of Monastrell, Garnacha and Tempranillo you can expect typical rustic earthy character - wild red berries and cherries, forest floor and leather with cocoa powder and roasted coffee beans and a pinch of finely ground white pepper. Reserved red fruit on the palate, parched earth and wild herbal flavours with the pepper really showing through. Fine tannins cling to the finish.
Pair this wine with rustic dishes, simple meats, cheeses or tomato based sauces.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

Made from the inky-hued Garnacha Tintorera grape this fantastic value wine is both savoury and aromatic.
It presents gobs of purple fruit, crushed floral notes and tobacco with roasted herbs and pepper. The Palate has plenty of bright juicy berry fruits with savoury green olive and herbal flavours. An uncomplicated wine, excellent value, with spice and roasted coffee bean flavours lingering on the finish.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

The Finca Flichman Cabernet has primary sweet berry fruit aromas, crushed floral notes, sweet herbs and vanilla with milk chocolate, coconut and a pinch of pepper. On the palate you can expect a soft rounded texture, restrained dusty red fruit and tobacco. The power builds toward the smooth finish and pepper flavours linger.
Good value!
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

You can expect to find solid, typical Sauvignon Blanc aromas in this newest release from [yellow tail]. Notes of grass clippings, crisp green beans and gooseberry with elderberry flowers. Snappy lime leads the palate followed by subtle peach,grassy/vegetative hints, herbs and lemon drops. This is a crisp, easy drinking Sauvignon Blanc with impressive freshness that is made from 86% Aussie fruit and 14% New Zealand fruit.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

The region of Lisboa was formerly known as Estremadura. It runs along central coast of Portugal where Lisbon (Lisboa) is located.
Very well balanced between old world rustic and new world texture you can expect aromas of saddle leather and red berries, green olives and wild herbs, sunbaked earth and cherries with hits of cedarbox. It is fresh and very smooth on the palate layered with red fruit, leather and tobacco.
Simple yet complex all at once - drinking well now.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 11th, 2009

Consistently good value and quality the Carmen features juicy green apple aromas, verdant cut grass and herbal notes with goseberry and citrus peel. Sweet, crisp fruit on the palate - citrus and white tree fruit flavours, soft but bright acidity and a clean fresh finish.
A nice choice for an aperitif or pair with light, fresh fish and salads.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 9th, 2009

If quaffing over complexity is what what you want in your wine then this red from Argentina lives up to its rather fun and colourful label. Aromas of chocolate covered cherries, red fruits, vanilla and coconut with sweet spice notes. The palate is rounded and quite lush and features plush fruit flavours, oak and spiced cocoa with fine tannins on the finish.
Very suitable for a party or a barbecue.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 9th, 2009

Always a fantastic value!
This everyday white is fresh and clean. Aromas of gooseberry and grass clippings, mineral, lemon verbena and a hint of floral. It is crisp and snappy on the palate with white peach and bright citric flavours, sweet herbs and mineral notes. The Peachy/citrus flavours linger on the finish...
Serve as an aperitif or pair with appeatizers, seafood or salads.
©copyright 2009 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - November 9th, 2009