Crios Brioso Dominio Del Plata Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec Cabernet Franc Petit Verdot Merlot 2005, Mendoza, Argentina: Fantastic expression of elegance, balance and finesse. Old World restraint with New World fruit power. Aromas of dark fruit: cassis and blackcurrant in this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% petit Verdot and 5% Merlot. This wine was aged 14 months in new French oak barrels. An international benchmark wine. 14% XD 750 mL  $15.00 Score: 95/100. June 12, 2009 Full Review

Kaiken Icon Malbec 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: This as yet unnamed flagship wine for Kaiken is breath-taking in it's scope and depth. It's made by blending Malbec grapes from different vineyards that the estate owns. Classic, deep, rich and redolent of dark fruit and smoke. A wine for collectors. 14% XD 750 mL Score: 95/100. June 12, 2009 Full Review

Limited Edition Syrah 2005, Mendoza, Argentina: My favorite wine in a terrific line-up from this producer. Generous, balanced and plush. Aged 12 months in French oak. Aromas of violets, cinnamon and blackberry. Superb. 14% D 750 mL  $15.00 Score: 96/100. June 12, 2009 Full Review

Louis Roederer Non-Vintage Brut Rosé 2003, A.C. Champagne, France: Vintages Wine Panel: The 2003 vintage in Champagne is destined to be legendary. While far from ‘classic’, the very warm, drought-like conditions have made for some fascinating expressions of the world’s best bubblies that are a must-have for Champagne collectors and enthusiasts. The Roederer House is among the elite Champenoise that chose to embrace the unique qualities of this historic vintage. This rosé blends 70% Pinot Noir with 30% Chardonnay. Aged on its lees for four years, this rich and complex Champagne has generous ripe red berry fruit aromas and flavors with floral accents. Dry, full-bodied with a creamy texture, it’s bold Champagne. My note: A full-bodied and complex Champagne with layers of dark cherries and strawberries from the Pinot Noir in the blend as well as violets, nutmeg and toast. A stupendously long finish. Is there anything more festive during the holidays than pink bubbly? Float a raspberry on top. These folks also make the coveted Cristal Champagne. I visited Louis Roederer in chapter three of my book red, White and Drunk All Over to discover the secrets behind top bubblies. I highly recommend a visit if you’re ever in the Champagne region. Drink: 2008-2015. 368415 12% XD 750 mL  $88.95 Score: 97/100. December 6, 2008 Favorite Sparkling Wine. Full Review