WINES OF THE WEEK

STONEY RIDGE EXCELLENCE 2010 CHARDONNAY $24.95 (NIAGARA)

A superb local chardonnay. Gorgeous nose of coconut, golden apple and apricot spills into rich, very long yellow apple, lemon and sandalwood, toasty oak depth. Stunning.

LCBO #254243 Food suggestion: Roast turkey or game hens

Rating: 92

VALDEMAR INSPIRACION 2008 RIOJA $19.95 (SPAIN)

Easy victor among the five new Spanish reds at Vintages. Tempranillo-based, this delivers smoky black cherry, cedar, plum, coconut and vanilla notes, with a whiff of mocha in the finish. LCBO #166512 Food suggestion: Coffee-crusted pork tenderloins

Rating: 90

CHÂTEAU LA GORCE 2008 MEDOC RED $16.95 (FRANCE)

Fabulous value in a field of Bordeaux newcomers, with upfront mocha, blackberry, plums, tar and unlit cigars aromas and sweet-edged ripe black fruits flavours. LCBO #91397 Food suggestion: Stir-fried flank

steak

Rating: 90+

COLIO CEV RESERVE 2009 MERLOT $19.95 (LAKE ERIE)

One of the gems from the giant winery on Lake Erie North Shore, with smoky plum, blackberry and cedar aromas and tight but supple black cherry and summer plum depth. LCBO #500447 Food suggestion: Prime rib roast Rating: 90

CHÂTEAU GAUDRELLE CLOS LE VIGNEAU 2011 VOUVRAY $18.95 (FRANCE)

Vouvrays like this pure chenin blanc often show a tinge of sweetness. The aromas and flavours show perfectly pitched peach, melon and mellow golden apple appeal. LCBO #318840 Food suggestion: Scallops in cream-sauced pasta

Rating: 90