Concha y Toro Merlot 2006, Peumo, Rapel Valley, Chile: Beautifully buffed tannins give this a slippery good texture with rich ripe blackberries and plums. Incredible depth and flavor for the money. Some tar, dried herbs, tar and cigar box. 939827 14.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 23, 2009 Full Review

Perrin & Fils Tavel Rose 2006, Rhone, France: Tavel produces some of the richest, yet driest rosés on the market. They work beautifully as a sipper and are quite adaptable to a variety of foods. My note: I love this wine! Why don't I drink more of it? 680801 14% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2007 Favorite Rose. Full Review

Planeta Syrah Rosé 2008, I.G.T., Sicily, Italy: What an amazing rose with mouth-watering aromas of strawberry, cranberry, rose petal. Gorgeous layers of flavor with a juicy core of pure pleasure. 111856 12% D 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 92/100. July 4, 2009 Full Review

Wolf Trap Syrah Mourvèdre Viognier 2009, Franschhoek, South Africa: Vintages Wine Panel: This Rhône-style blend got our attention. Lovely lifted black fruit aromas layered with notes of peppery spice, tar, leather, red licorice, and woodsmoke. Dry, medium bodied, with supple tannins, bright acidity, and a core of spicy fruit. The perfect match for barbecued fare (bring on the back ribs!), but its refreshing acidity and easy-drinking nature also make it a lovely sipper. My note: Spicy dark plums and berries with terrific extraction of flavour, concentration and depth. A smoky, spicy finish that's deeply satisfying for those who love full-bodied wonders. Drink: 2010-2014. 626333 14.50% XD 750 mL  $14.00 Score: 89/100. July 10, 2010 Full Review

Kunde Zinfandel 2002, Sonoma Valley, United States: A full-bodied wine with aromas of vibrant, ripe raspberries and black-berries. 965921 14.50% XD 750 mL  $33.05 Score: 90/100. July 7, 2007 Full Review

Le Baron Ranch Three Sisters Zinfandel 2006, Sonoma County, California, United States: Vintages Wine Panel: Deep ruby with purple high-lights, this Zin bursts out of the glass with exuberant aromas of raspberry jam, ripe black plum, blueberry, smoke and vanilla. It’s dry, with a medium full-body, ripe tannins and just enough acidity to balance the voluptuous black fruit flavors. Warm, soft and creamy with a touch of smoke on the very long finish. My note: Juicy good blueberry, blackberry and brambleberry notes. Absolutely delicious and full-bodied with polished tannins for a smooth texture. 119966 14.30% D 750 mL  $22.95 Score: 90/100. July 4, 2009 Full Review