Just in case you were wondering - no, the Wine Barbarian did not stop drinking wine over the past three months!I regret that my polical blog, my work and family obligations sometimes mean updating the Wine Barbarian blog is delayed - this time for quite awhile.
But here are two great wines for you to try as small compensation for my absence.
First, on your right, the fabulous Monte Antico 2006 - ranked at Number 60 on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2009 - this blend of 85% sangiovese, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 5% merlot from Tuscany is rated 90 points.
But the real news is its amazingly low price for such great quality - it retails in BC Liquor Stores for just $16.99!! Get it fast - the Liquor Board says it has just over 1600 bottles in stock.
Plum, cherry and berry flavours coming from wine that spends a year in oak make this a crowd pleaser anywhere.
And on your left, another wonderful red wine - Bodegas Norton Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2006. The Wine Spectator scores it at 88 points and I'd say its even a bit better than that. Dark current, plum, fig, cocoa and mocha notes can all be found - or so they say - and it's definitely a concentrated but accessible wine - perfect for grilled meats or fowl.
The BC Liquor Stores current indicate just over 1000 bottles are available at $18.99 each. Try out Norton's other fine wines too - especially their 2006 Privada blend at $25.99 if you have an extra few dollars. It's rated 92 points by the Wine Spectator.
Cheers and hopefully more reviews - and our New Orleans restaurant reviews - very soon!
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