Carole scored this wine: 93/100

The excellent Château Haut-Lalande, Côtes de Bordeaux 2015 is a merlot, cabernet sauvignon and malbec blend. This medium bodied dry red delivers complex aromas of nutmeg, blueberries, cassis and oak. On the palate, this wine has mouth-watering acidity, well integrated tannins and some of the same flavors encountered on the nose. Very drinkable now, it can be cellared for a couple of years. This wine is a very good value for the price. Pairing suggestion: this wine was superb with beef tenderloin Madeira demi-glace sauce.

Carole scored this wine: 85/100

The Laughing Magpie 2012, a Shiraz and Viognier blend, delivers earthy and prune aromas as well as a touch of oak. It is a powerful full-bodied dry red with a hint of residual sugar, fresh acidity and firm tannins. After letting it breathe for 30 minutes in a carafe, the tannins were much smoother and allowed to better taste the prune, fig and pepper flavors. Still young, this wine can be cellared for a few years. Pairing suggestions: BBQ ribs