Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: An intense, expertly made wine. Almost pitch black in the glass. Impactful aromas of cassis, woodsmoke, cloves, mineral and mocha come wafting forth. Dry and very richly fruity, but it is immediately brought into balance by bright acidity and chewy tannins. This robustly full-bodied and long-finishing wine is an ideal candidate for mid-term cellaring (2-4 years), but it will also reward enjoyment tonight. My note: Juicy-black concentration of flavours and happiness. This is incredibly flavourful for cabernet which is usually far more austere than shiraz. I love it because the balance is just right between structure and fruit power. Drink: 2011-2017. 730374 14.50% D 750 mL  $24.95 Score: 93/100. August 20, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Jean Féry & Fils Les Nosroyes Puligny Montrachet Chardonnay 2008, A.C., Burgundy, France: Vintages Wine Panel: Displays the best of what Puligny-Montrachet Chardonnay can offer. Aromas suggest orchard fruit, applesauce, lemon zest, smoke, toast and hints of marzipan and minerality. Dry, very complex and layered with a nice interplay between the fruit, tangy acidity and well-handled oak. Poised with a lingering, elegant finish. This will cellar gracefully for 3-5+ years. It may be enjoyed tonight. My score: Smokin good! Green apple goodness, with a smoky loveliness. Full-bodied and mouth watering. Drink: 2011-2018. 243568 13% XD 750 mL  $55.00 Score: 95/100. July 23, 2011 Top Rated White Wine. Full Review

Perrin & Fils Les Sinards Syrah Blend 2007, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Pure black cherry liqueur in concentration and flavour. Rich, robust and layered. Full-bodied doesn’t begin to describe it for those who love a full-palate wallop. This one will age well in the cellar. This half-size bottle will mature faster than the 750 mL bottle that he’s referring to – 6-8 years is probably more accurate. It’s part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. Drink: 2010-2020. 5975 14% XD 375 mL  $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 4, 2010 Full Review

Perrin & Fils Les Sinards Syrah 2007, A.C., Rhône, France: Come hither nose, with a warm embrace once you do hither over to the glass. Full-bodied, smooth and savoury with dark red fruit and a long finish. Superbly crafted, as are most wines from this producer who cares about every step. Terrific half bottles are hard to come by so stock for those nights when you’re on your own or when you and what’s his name just want a glass and a bit each. This is part of the Vintages Essentials Collection so you’re likely to find it in stock Drink: 2011-2020. 5975 14% XD 375 mL  $19.95 Score: 93/100. March 5, 2011 Full Review

Quintarelli Primofiore Corvina Rondinella Molinara 2006, I.G.T., Veneto, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: An exceptional blend of the Veneto trio: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. Primofiore is packed with complex rich flavours of cherry, olives, exotic spices, and oak. Giuseppe Quintarelli designs this wine to be enjoyed much younger than most of his wines. There is a touch of Amarone added to this fresh blend for additional complexity before the wine begins its maturation in oak. My note: Stunning seduction! Fleshy cherry liqueur aromas followed up by mixed spices and ripe dark red fruit. Full-bodied and as smooth a velvet dress with a satin petticoat. I am undone. But before I faint top me up will you please? Drink: 2011-2018. 20867 13.50% XD 750 mL  $59.95 Score: 95/100. March 5, 2011 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review

Talamonti Tre Saggi Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2006, D.O.C., Abruzzo, Italy: Rich, dark and savoury with black cherries and smoke. Full-bodied and luxuriously thick like a comforting blanket you wrap closer to you on a chilly night. Great structure and balance. An elegant dinner party wine that won’t cost a fortune. Plus the label looks like you imported it. Drink: 2011-2016. 204016 13.50% D 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 90/100. March 19, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Michele Castellani Colle Cristi Classico Amarone Della Valpolicella 2006, D.O.C., Ca' Del Pipa, Veneto, Italy: Dried raisined cherries with a deep, luxurious layers of richness. Full-bodied and lip-smacking delicious aromas. A finish that says “buy me again!” Drink: 2011-2020. 222109 15.50% XD 750 mL  $45.95 Score: 96/100. August 20, 2011 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review