Whether you're craving a spicy Pinot Noir or a citrusy organic Chardonnay, there's bound to be a wine that will satisfy the most discerning palates. Here's a selection of wines that have garnered top ratings in 2012 by Sun Media wine columnist Christopher Waters.

Rating: ****
Wine: Peter Lehmann 2009 Shiraz Portrait Series
Tasting notes: The 2009 Shiraz marks the 30th consecutive vintage of Peter Lehmann's flagship wine. It's dressed up with a new label, but the attractive and juicy red inside the bottle is classic Barossa Shiraz. This rich and ripe red is bold enough to match with steak and balanced enough to pair with pizza or pasta.
Availability: BC $22.99 (572875) | AB $21 | MB $21 |$19.95 (572875)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Yalumba 2011 Y Series Viognier
Tasting notes: This is likely the best Y Series Viognier yet. Its mix of attractive fruit and floral aromas and flavours show what the fuss is all about. It's dramatically different from Chardonnay, but with similar mouthfilling weight and texture.
Availability: BC $17.99 | AB $16.99 | ON $15.95 (624502)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Torres 2008 Gran Coronas Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Tasting notes: Cabernet takes on some Spanish flair with the addition of Tempranillo, one of Spain's benchmark native grapes. Made in Torres' classic style, this is a solid, complex red wine that puts the emphasis on earthy and savoury flavours as opposed to the jammy fruit found in many Cabernet Sauvignons available at this price.
Availability: BC $19.99 | AB $20 | MB $18.95 | ON $18.95 (036483)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Sonoma Cutrer Vineyards 2009 Russian River Ranches Chardonnay
Tasting notes: This is the largest volume wine that Chardonnay specialist Sonoma-Cutrer makes. An aroma that suggests popcorn and citrus fruit sets the stage nicely for an appealingly fresh and flavourful white wine. The mix of rich, complex flavours and zesty character make this worth the splurge.
Availability: BC $25.99 (359505) | AB $26 | ON $24.95 (608653)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Trius Winery 2010 Trius Red
Tasting notes: The new vintage of Trius Red promises to be one of the best. It's rich and ripe flavours make it something to enjoy now, while the concentration and backbone suggest it has the stuffing to go the distance should you choose to cellar it for the next five to 10 years. It remains an impressive and enjoyable red wine.
Availability: BC $21.99 | $22.95 (303800)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Tommasi Viticoltori 2009 Arele
Tasting notes: This pleasing red makes the most of its juicy, spicy flavours. The mix of fresh berry and plummy fruit is nicely enhanced by spice and herbal noted. Good value.
Availability: BC $24.99 (203539) | AB $18.90 (745967) | MB $22.25 (745967) | ON $17.95 (224188)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Thirty Bench Wine Makers 2011 Riesling
Tasting notes: This aromatic white, which is made with younger vines from the Thirty Bench estate, gets the balance right with riper peach flavours and zesty lime notes. It is a refreshing, enjoyable wine that is easy-going enough to enjoy by itself or as a great companion with grilled chicken, fish or seafood. Thirtybench.com
Availability: $18.95 (024133)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Villa Maria Estate 2010 Private Bin Pinot Noir Marlborough
Tasting notes: Pinot Noir is an emerging star in New Zealand thanks to ripe and spicy versions like this. The bold berry and cherry flavours and smooth texture make this really tasty and easy-to-appreciate.
Availability: AB $24.99 | ON $19.95 (146548)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Vina Cono Sur 2011 Organic Chardonnay
Tasting notes: Cono Sur has been aggressively expanding its organic production, without losing sense of quality or cost. Its dynamic range includes a ripe Cabernet Sauvingon/Carmenere and this bright, citrusy Chardonnay that offers some rich nutty and spicy notes. This is made in an easy-to-appreciate, refreshing style that is enjoyable by itself or as a complement to a meal.
Availability: BC $14.49 (471367) | ON $11.95 (230565)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Boekenhoutskloof 2011 Porcupine Ridge Syrah
Tasting notes: Big vineyard investments in the up-and-coming Swartland region have turned an already rich, robust red into something even more stunning. Porcupine Ridge Syrah has long been one of the best value red wines available, and the new vintage strikes me as the best yet. Its rich flavours and complexity make it very attractive.
Availability: BC $18 | AB $18 | MB $17.99 | ON $14.95 (595280)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Bodegas Francois Lurton 2011 Pinot Gris
Tasting notes: Here is an exciting, aromatic version of Pinot Gris that shows there is much more to Mendoza than just Malbec. There's a purity and persistence to this flavourful dry white that makes it a tremendous value. It is a solid option to have on hand for pretty much any occasion.
Availability: BC $13.99 (556746) | BC $13 | ON $11.95 (556746)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Rodney Strong Vineyards 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting notes: This enjoyable Sonoma County Cabernet presents appealing dark fruit that is nicely accented by vanilla and cedar notes from the oak barrels used to age the wine. It is nicely balanced, with terrific intensity of flavour and length.
Availability: BC $29.99 (833376) | AB $20.98 (725352)
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Rating: ****
Wine: The Wolftrap Viognier Chenin Blanc Grenache
Tasting notes: This stunning white wine shows the real excitement in South Africa today is with its blended wines. A creative mix of Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Grenache Blanc, this spicy, floral-scented white has aromatic charm and fresh, fruity intensity which is bound to make it some adventurous wine lover's new favourite wine. Highly recommended.
Availability: BC $14.99 (856450) | AB $13 | MB $15 | ON $13.95 (292532)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Inniskillin Wines 2011 Pinot Noir Rosé
Tasting notes: A recent medallist at the Ontario Wine Awards, this flavourful rosé makes the most of its berry and spice notes. Its surprisingly fruity aroma and refreshing palate make it an enjoyable option for summer get-togethers. Inniskillin.com
Availability: BC $14.99 (856450) | AB $13 | MB $15 | ON $13.95 (292532)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Mission Hill Family Estate 2011 Five Vineyards Rosé
Tasting notes: The follow-up to the InterVin gold medal winner doesn't miss a beat. This fresh and lively rosé makes the most of its berry and citrus flavour, with a hint of sweetness that gives it real appeal. Missionhillwinery.com
Availability: BC $14.99 (856450) | AB $13 | MB $15 | ON $13.95 (292532)
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Rating: ****
Wine: Chateau St. Jean 2009 Sonoma Pinot Noir
Tasting notes: Top-notch Sonoma County producer Chateau St. Jean struck gold again with its Sonoma Pinot Noir. The 2009 follows last year's award-winning 2008 vintage. InterVin judges loved its ripe red fruit and spice notes as well as its long, complex finish.
Availability: BC $27.95 (567420) | AB $23 | $ON $29.95 (687970)
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