Bryan McCaw

Tandem Porter Bass Vineyards Chardonnay 2004, Sonoma Coast

Helfrich Gewurztraminer 2010, Ac Alsace

Hands down the best Gewurzt we've ever had. I've got he official go ahead to buy more. A wonderfully rich and balanced wine. Oh, and it's less than 20 bucks.

Wegeler Riesling Spälese 2007, Qmp, Wehlener Sonnenuhr, Estate Btld.

I bought this based on the recommendations and I was not disappointed. It IS sweetish, almost like a dessert wine, but is balanced and it has an excellent nose. Tasted twice, before and after a meal. Serve chilled - excellent wine.

Closson Chase South Clos Vineyard Chardonnay 2011, VQA Prince Edward County

I had a couple of cases of this wine aging in my cellar. My god it is ready and the nose is amazing. Great wine. Epitome of county chardonnay.

Concha Y Toro Terrunyo Block 27 Carmenère 2008, Peumo Vineyard, Peumo, Cachapoal Valley

Although not quite at the same level as the 2007 this is a fine, structured Carmenere with the lovely nose that I love. Hopefully I'll have the patience to let this age a year or two. A definite step up from the glut of Carmenere at the $20 price point.

Exultet Estates 'the Blessed' Chardonnay 2011, VQA Prince Edward County

We visited Exlutet last year and managed to pry one last case of the 2010 out of Gerry's cellar. I got to try the 2011 at the Ottawa wine show last November and decided then to purchase more.

This is my favourite chardonnay from the county which is saying a lot as I love county chardonnay.

Amazing rich nose, great body, acidity and finish.

Pirramimma Petit Verdot 2010, Mclaren Vale

Quite surprised by this wine. Wonderful rich nose.

Ferngrove Shiraz 2007, Frankland River, Western Australia

Another great Shiraz for under $20! I've got the green light to buy a case of this today. At the rate we are going through this wine a case will last only 6 nights (well, maybe 6 Saturday nights).

Alta Vista Atemporal 2007

This wine is a fantastic value. A gorgeous, complex nose, rich middle with a wonderful finish. Probably the best wine under $20 I've ever tasted. [Note this review is posted in the morning, not immediately after consuming]

Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Mclaren Vale, South Australia

This is an awesome, classic Cabernet. It's all there on the nose, through the body and on to the finish. I gave it an extra point or two simply for the value. I don't think I've ever tasted a better Cabernet under $25. I now have official go-ahead to purchase a case.