Argentina
Mendel Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Tannic with tart black fruit. Aromas of varied dark fruits, smoke and cedar. Full-bodied: decant 2 hours. This will also do very well in the cellar, but even better in your glass. Malbec food pairings: grilled radicchio, lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2017 108225 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Versado Peter Gamble & Ann Sperling Malbec 2012, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Peppery and full-bodied with blackberry, some mint, some smoke and dark spice on the nose. Intriguing and robust and velvet smooth texture. Savoury, juicy and long on the finish. Terrific with a wide range of meat dishes. Good bones and breeding. Malbec food pairings: grilled radicchio, lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin, smoky steaks and chimichurri, meaty pasta, winter stews. Drink: 2013 - 2016 317008 13.8% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Salentein Reserve Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Stunning concentration of aromas and flavors with excellent balance. Round, polished tannins give a velvet mouth-feel. This wine was aged 14 months in French oak. Nightcap anyone? Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2016 640854 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clos de los Siete 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Black pepper and fleshy black plum aromas on the nose with some cassis on the finish. Layered, complex and deep, like math, but without the work. This red hails from one of Argentina's top producers. Food pairings: grilled lamb chops, liver and onions. Drink: 2013 - 2017 622571 14.5% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Catena Nicolás Catena Zapata Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Lots of toasty oak, black fruit and dark spices on the nose. Full-bodied and tannic. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with a rare steak. 510958 14% XD 750 mL $109.95 Score: 93/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Elderton Command Single Vineyard The Ashmead Family Shiraz 2009, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, full-bodied with black fruit yet not over-oaked. Loaded with layers of lapping pleasure with a long finish. Meaty and savoury and lip-smacking delicious. Sink your senses into this one. Perfect for holiday entertaining. Shiraz food pairings: beef prosciutto, black bean soup, blue cheese, lamb shank. Drink: 2013 - 2016 716142 14.5% D 750 mL $99.00 Score: 93/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
d'Arenberg The Footbolt Shiraz 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Meaty, savoury and lip-smacking delicious! Enticing eucalyptus and blackberry aromas in this full-bodied, smooth red. Sure to please even the most hardened cabernet fan. Loaded with concentrated dark red fruit flavours on the finish, along with a spice kick. Shiraz food pairings: beef fajitas, black bean soup, blue cheese, caramelized onion dip. Drink: 2013 - 2016 984021 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mountadam Estate The Red Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc 2009, High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied and complex red with great depths of black fruit and some mocha. Long finish. This wine was aged in new French oak barriques for 2 years and the added richness enfolds your palate. This is a traditional meritage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. Perfect for dinner parties. Savoury, meaty and delicious with some espresso on the finish. Yum! Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc food pairings: avocado and papaya salad, Asian chicken salad, asparagus and sugar snap sea soup, autumn hodge-podge, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 931105 13.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 94/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chapel Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Classic nose of blackcurrant, cassis and sage brush. Full-bodied and very solidly structured. Packed with dark fruit personality and flavour. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Great for steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 965830 14.5% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ladies Who Shoot Their Lunch Fowles Wine Shiraz 2010, Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria, Australia: Savoury, juicy and full-bodied: bursting with character and blackberry goodness. Just the right amount of toasty oak. Try it with wild game that you don't necessarily have to shoot yourself. 243592 14% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pillar Box Reserve Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied, meaty, savoury and mouth-watering. Black fruit and tarry notes with warm toasty oak. Delicious. Cries out for a juicy rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 199745 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Creekside Estate Winery Broken Press Queenston Road Vineyard Syrah 2010, V.Q.A., St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: This full-bodied red wine announces its presence with lots of black pepper over fleshy black plums. Robust and brooding. Decant 2 hours. Enjoy with a hearty meat dish. Syrah food pairings: beef stew. Drink: 2013 - 2016 202127 12.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stratus Red 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Mocha, dark chocolate, black fruit, full-bodied, tannic. A terrific red blend from one of Niagara's best producers. Decant 2 hours. Food pairings: roast lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2017 131037 13.5% D 750 mL $44.20 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Pinot Noir 2011, V.Q.A., Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Pleasant dark cherry and cedar brush notes. Tart and tannic. Medium-bodied. Give it some cellar time. Pinot Noir food pairings: turkey dinner, lamb shanks, autumn stews. Drink: 2014 - 2016 112177 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Daniel Lenko Old Vines Merlot 2010, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A robust merlot with exotic notes of blueberry, dark spices, anise and oak. Supple and layered. Decant 1 hour and try with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2016 75622 13% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Gewürztraminer 2012, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Classic gewurz! Rose petal, spice and lychee. Very nice: balanced yet not overdone. Yay! Gewürztraminer food pairings: pan-seared scallops, spicy pork, turkey dinner. Drink: 2013 - 2017 904185 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery Barrel Aged Chardonnay 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Kitchen comforting aromas of butterscotch, baking spices and apple pie. Lovely layers and richness. This winery is making great strides back to quality. Chardonnay food pairings: roast turkey, grilled pork dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 211490 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château des Charmes Earth & Sky Riesling 2011, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Canada: A pretty riesling with attractive aromas of fresh peach, pear and lime. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Great as an aperitif or companion to seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2016 343350 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Santa Carolina Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Stunning for this price point! Rich, toasted almonds wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy. Balanced and luscious, with loads of hedonistic happiness. This is an amazing party wine and it also works well for dinner parties. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, roast pork, prawn bisque, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast, roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2015 928580 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Koyle Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Alto Colchagua, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Lovely blackberry, mint on the nose! You can't go wrong with this full-bodied red, especially at this price point. It has the power of Chilean fruit but is also well-sculpted and balanced with a satisfying long finish. Perfect for the holidays when you want to put your feet up after rigorous shopping expeditions. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rich meat-based pasta dishes, grilled steaks with a flavourful sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 256073 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Carmenère 2009, Maipo Valley, Chile: Savoury and dark with meaty black fruit flavours and smoke. Love the barest hint of mint that lifts and brightens the black fruit flavours. Full-bodied, layered and lovely. Bold and friendly: just what you want in a wine. Carmenère food pairings: grilled pork chops, pepper steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 57513 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Concha Y Toro Merlot Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Rapel Valley, Chile: Juicy and lip-smacking delicious! How can you not love this wine? Mocha and espresso goodness with plum preserve flavours crushing between your lips. This wine is perfect for movie night or with many types of meaty pizzas. Merlot Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: mushroom risotto, osso bucco, grilled steak, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 433920 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sol De Andes Reserva Especial Syrah 2008, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Seductive, smoky, with toasty oak with some mocha and rich fleshy ripe black plum notes. Powerful and intense. Great with meat dishes and good intentions. A great quaffer for the price. Mellow time wine. Savoury and meaty and delicious! Wow especially for the price! Syrah food pairings: hard cheese, barbecued chicken, beef stew, lamb cutlets, mushroom pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2016 274159 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Croatia
Dingac Winery Peljesac Badel 1862 D.D 2011, Middle & South Dalmatia's Coastal Vineyards, Croatia: Pleasant, full-bodied with dark red fruit. Straight-forward pleasure. This robust red is made from the Plavac Mali grape. Good tannic grip. Great price. Decant 2 hours to soften. Food pairings: meat lovers' pizza, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 983494 11.9% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 86/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Château du Chatelard Cuvée Les Vieux Granits Fleurie Sylvain Rosier, Prop.-Récolt. Gamay (Beaujolais) 2011, A.P., Beaujolais, France: Tart cherry fruit and mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied and smooth. Straightforward and tasty. Try with cold chicken sandwiches. Drink: 2013 - 2015 207886 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château D'anglés Grand Vin 2008, A.C., Languedoc La Clape, Midi, France: Robust, rustic and tannic with big black fruit. Perfect for pizza or hamburgers. Some tanned leather and dark spice on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2014 286492 14.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Claude Nouveau Vieilles Vignes Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2010, A.C., Hautes Côtes De Beaune, Burgundy, France: An acquired taste no doubt: some barnyard (not bret), wet leaves, sour cherry and bacon. Smooth and medium-bodied and acidic. Good partner for roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: rare roast beef, duck. Drink: 2013 - 2016 358531 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ruhlmann Vieilles Vignes Gewürztraminer 2011, A.C., Alsace, France: Soft and luxurious with overflowing aromas and character of white flowers, honeysuckle, clementine and exotic lychee. Drink: 2013 - 2018 982082 12.8% MD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Capmartin Vieilles Vignes 2010, A.C., Madiran, Southwest, France: Full-bodied with brooding black fruit and a juicy mouth-watering finish. This wine is made mostly from the Tannat grape with about 20% Cabernet Sauvignon to give it structure. It spent a year in barrels which gives it added richness and depth along with some vanilla smoke on the finish. Decant 1 hour. In my mind, I'm going to Madiran ... Food pairings: pepper steak, hamburgers with all the fixins. Drink: 2012 - 2015 290106 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Rotier Les Gravels Gaillac 2010, A.C., Southwest, France: This full-bodied red wine is a blend of Duras, Braucol and Syrah grapes and offers aromas and flavours of blood brooding fruit, tar and smoky oak. Good tannic grip so decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with a hearty meat dish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 299537 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Chablisienne Montmains Chablis 1Er Cru Chardonnay 2010, A.C., Burgundy, France: Crisp, fresh and energetic with green apple vibrancy. No oak. Perfect for shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 265090 12.8% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château de Fontaine-Audon Langlois-Château Sauvignon Blanc 2012, A.P., Sancerre, Loire, France: Lovely lemon brightness and energy. Mouth-watering gusher that cries out for shellfish or fried chicken. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: oysters. Drink: 2013 - 2017 745893 12.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Deliance Ruban Vert Brut Crémant De Bourgogne, A.C., Burgundy, France: Toasty, crisp and refreshing: this is a great bubbly for the holidays, especially at this price. Drink: 2013 - 2015 355917 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Drappier Zero Dosage Brut Nature Pinot Noir Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Toasty, full-bodied and robust with rich aromas due to the lead of Pinot Noir in the blend. Very elegant. Great bubbly for the holidays. Drink: 2013 - 2017 179275 12% D 750 mL $45.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dom Pérignon Brut Rosé Champagne 2002, A.C., Champagne, France: A spectacular champagne named after the monk who made it famous. A traditional belnd of chardonnay, pinot meunier and pinot noir, this is a robust champagne, with seductive aromas and flavours of baked bread, white flowers and green apple. 91777 12.5% D 750 mL $299.95 Score: 95/100. November 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Roquefort Vignobles Bellanger Sauvignon Sémillon 2011, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Lime green intensity and a white grapefruit finish. No heavy oak. Good aperitif or seafood companion. Drink: 2013 - 2015 313346 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Luneau-Papin Clos Des Allées Sévre Et Maine Muscadet Sur Lie 2012, A.P., Loire, France: Lemon-lime piercing acidity and focus that's perfect for oysters. Clean, crisp and refreshing. Medum-bodied. Muscadet Sur Lie food pairings: seafood, soft goat cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2015 357327 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Moncontour Demi-Sec Vouvray 2011, A.C., Loire, France: While this is an off-dry wine, the lovely acidity makes it seem much drier and more savoury. Love this expression of the Chenin Blanc grape: so different with lemon zest and Asian pear aromas. Perfect for such a wide range of dishes. Get out of your chardonnay rut with this wine. Vouvray food pairings: roast chicken, fresh seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2016 16709 11.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hauller Muenchberg Grand Cru Riesling 2011, A.C., Alsace, France: Lovely floral notes, with just hint of peach sweetness. Soft and not acidic. Lovely aperitif. Drink: 2013 - 2016 360370 12.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Lafage Cuvée Nicolas Vieilles Vinges Grenache Noir 2010, I.G.P., Côtes Catalanes, Bordeaux, France: A spectacular, robust red wine with glorious aromas and flavours of black cherry liqueur, anise and smoke. Loaded with seductive black raspberry on the finish. Superb craftsmanship! Drink: 2013 - 2017 354191 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine La Roquète Frédéric & Daniel Brunier 2010, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: A robust red with mature dark fruit aromas. Pepper sprinkled on top of deep fleshy black fruit. Full-bodied but pleasantly so and seductively slippery smooth. Quite a spectacular dinner party wine, party if the conversation hasn’t got rolling yet. Food pairings: roast beef, prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2018 70862 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château de Beaucastel Vign. Pierre Perrin 2011, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Beautifully made with superb craftsmanship! Full-bodied, concentrated and complex with layers of rich black fruit flavour and smoke. Great cellar potential, but why wait? This comes from one of the most iconic producers in the Rhone Valley, and in all of France. Vivre la France! Food pairings: prime cuts of beef. Drink: 2013 - 2020 968750 14.5% XD 375 mL $46.95 Score: 96/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Cros De Romet Alain Boisson Cairanne 2011, Ac Côtes Du Rhône-Village, Rhone, France: A delicious, lip-smacking, full-bodied red wine with aromas of plums and blackberries. Decant for 1-2 hours. This is mostly Grenache grape, but also has some Syrah grapes in the blend. The wine itself was aged in stainless steel to preserve its fruit freshness and vitality. Perfect for potluck gatherings. Cairanne food pairings: beef, roast leg of lamb, barbecued chicken, avocado and papaya salad, barbecued lobster, hodge-podge. Drink: 2013 - 2016 42986 15.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Riesling Kabinett 2011, Prädikatswein, Wehlener Sonnenuhr, Mosel, Germany: Love it! Sweetly ripe peach and pear flavours with a great vein of acidity running through it. So packed with flavour yet light on the alcohol. This wine will handle the most pungent of cheeses. Riesling Kabinett food pairings: Bengali risotto, Asian chicken salad, apple strudel, black bean soup. Drink: 2013 - 2018 557652 8.5% MD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Terredora Aglianico 2010, I.G.T., Campania, Italy: A riot of aromas: red flowers and berries in a brambly mid-forest. So different , so open your mind and senses. Pretty and lifted floral notes. Incredible price. Why not? There's black cherry, spice and anise on the finish. Decant for 1 hour. Aglianico food pairings: pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 602284 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rocca Di Castagnoli Poggio A'frati Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Dry red fruit, leather and spices. Full-bodied with a tannic grip. Decant 2 hours. Drink: 2013 - 2015 23358 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido Toscana I.G.T. 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: This wine is made by the coveted Sassicaia winery. Juicy and savoury with smoky black fruit and full-bodied richness. A tannic, black blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese grapes. Needs a hearty meat dish. Decant 2 hours. Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido Toscana I.G.T. food pairings: ribeye steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 72439 14% XD 750 mL $75.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Crognolo Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010, I.G.T., Tuscany, Italy: Dry and mouth-watering with savoury herbs and tart cherry aromas. Full-bodied, but not heavy. Decant 2 hours. The finish is inflected with anise, pepper and blackberry. Food pairings: pasta with meat sauce. Drink: 2016 - 2025 727636 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Roccamora Schola Sarmenti Nardò Rosso Negroamaro 2009, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Full-bodied red wine with black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours, black fruit and smoke aromas. Dark spices on the finish. Very good price for the quality. Make this your house wine, and you may never leave the house. Negroamaro food pairings: pepper steak, prime rib, osso buco, pasta, sopressata pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2016 245654 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Margherita Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Lots of mouth-watering acidity that cries out for a hearty meat dish. Black fruit with smoke and robust tannins with a smoky finish. Decant 2 hours. Chianti Classico food pairings: peppery grilled steak, roast beef, pasta with meat sauce, char-grilled sausages, steak topped pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2015 91694 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 85/100. November 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Margherita Impronta del Fondatore Pinot Grigio 2012, D.O.C., Alto Adige, Trentino, Italy: Fresh, clean and crisp with white peach notes. Medium-bodied with lime lift on the finish. Great aperitif. This is a limited-production bottling made in the Alto Adige region and is the winery's flagship white. Pair it with the movie Il Postino. Life is beautiful! Pinot Grigio food pairings: pasta in a garlic sauce, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 231258 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michele Chiarlo Le Marne Gavi Cortese (Gavi) 2012, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: White floral nose then lime acidity on the palate to wake up your taste buds. Medium-bodied, clean and crisp. Great aperitif! A vibrant citrus finish. The Gavi region is in the southeast part of Piedmont and features Cortese grape vines planted on hillsides in calcareous-marl soil that is the reason for the name “Le Marne.” Cortese (Gavi) food pairings: shellfish, seafood salads. Drink: 2013 - 2015 228528 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Castello Del Poggio Dolce Brachetto, D.O.C., Piedmont, Italy: This odd little duck is a sweet sparkling red wine. It's got pleasant aromas of raspberries and would go very well with dark chocolate as an afer-dinner drink. Very festive colour. Drink: 2013 - 2016 101345 7% MS 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Masi Campolongo Di Torbe Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: A cellar keeper or for your drinking pleasure now. More plush and round than Masi's Mazzano in this release, and more hedonistic. Full-bodied, concentrated and deep with a long, smoky finish. Offers aromas of dark fruit and spices. Towering structure and rich depth combine to make this a blockbuster wine. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: meaty pasta, beef stew. Drink: 2015 - 2030 548677 16% XD 750 mL $121.25 Score: 94/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Masi Mazzano Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Black raspberry and tar with black spice and a deep core of concentrated pleasure. This is not for the faint of palate. Full-bodied palate whack. Deamnds hearty meat dishes. Decant 2 hours. Drink: 2014 - 2020 215764 16% XD 750 mL $99.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Contado Riserva Del Molise Di Majo Norante Aglianico 2010, D.O.C., Molise, Italy: Concentrated and powerful, with mouth-watering acidity for a wide range of dishes, plus dark red fruit notes and smoke on the finish. Great price for this quality. A pleasantly bitter finish. Aglianico food pairings: meat lovers' pizza, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 967208 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.00 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Remo Farina Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Smoky black cherries on the nose, juicy, smooth, full-bodied weight and texture, finishes with black plum note. Ripasso translates to “re-passing” and means fermenting Valpolicella wine a second time with dried Amarone grapes to deepen the flavour, body and persistence of the wine. I love persistence in a wine: shows great character! Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: grilled veal chops, pasta, beef stew, herbed tomato salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 999946 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Aldiano Riserva Cantina Tollo Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2009, D.O.C., Abruzzo, Italy: Lots of mocha and dark chocolate on the nose from oak aging, and it's woven nicely into the dark fruit aromas and flavours. Robust and supple. Very satisfying. Powerful and concentrated with some smoke, vanilla and dark fruit on the finish. Decant for 1-2 hours. Montepulciano D'abruzzo food pairings: coffee-rubbed steak, chicken, grilled meats, quiche, eggplant, lamb, pasta bolognese, spiced sausages. Drink: 2012 - 2016 51706 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Sofia Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2007, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: You can smell the high alcohol on the nose (15%) followed by black cherry liqueur and raspberry jam. Full-bodied and smooth. Decant 2 hours. A wine that deserves a fork and knife. Drink: 2014 - 2020 713669 15% D 750 mL $52.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ornellaia Tenuta Dell'ornellaia 2010, D.O.C., Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany, Italy: This tightly wound red wine needs cellar time. Ka-pow! Jumps out of the glass and pulls you back in head first. This wine floods the senses with black fruit, tar, dark spices and smoke. Can you see yourself negotiating in a smoky room with someone who wants a much higher rate of interest than you expected. Have another sip, take a deep breath and enjoy this classic wine that uses traditional Bordeaux grapes in its blend. Food pairings: kobe beef, filet mignon. Drink: 2016 - 2027 722470 14.5% XD 750 mL $189.95 Score: 97/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gaja Sito Moresco Nebbiolo 2011, D.O.C., Langhe, Piedmont, Italy: Superbly made. Elegant, balanced with exotic layers of flavour. Everything comes together without any one element dominating. Long finish. This robust red is a blend of Nebbiolo, Cabernet and Merlot grapes. his Piedmontese DOC region, Langhe, allows the most grape varieties in the blend as well as various winemaking techniques, which allows true stars like this producer to take their artistry to a new level. Nebbiolo food pairings: mature cheeses, rare cuts of meat. Drink: 2013 - 2018 976043 14% XD 750 mL $94.95 Score: 93/100. November 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gaja Ca'marcanda Promis 2010, I.G.T. Toscana, Estate Btld, Tuscany, Italy: This wine is a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese grapes. It’s a beautiful expression of fleshy ripe blackberries, fig, cassis, violets and sundried tomato. A mouth-coating texture and a lively acidity make for a delicious interplay of textures and flavors across the palate. This is one of Italy’s best producers. This winery is famed vintner Angelo Gaja’s project in Tuscany’s coastal region of Maremma. Thank-you Angelo. Food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, bean-based dishes, beet salad, leg of lamb, beef with stout, tuscan bread. Drink: 2013 - 2017 745638 14% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Quinta Do Portal Vintage Port 2003, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Gorgeous aromas and flavours of black plums, blackcurrant and blackberry liqueur. Juicy and mouth-watering, with incredible depth, concentration and length on the finish. Try it! Drink: 2013 - 2025 345041 20% S 750 mL $58.95 Score: 95/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Offley 10 Year Old Btld. 2013, Barão De Forrester Tawny Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Lovely caramel, toffee richness with toasted almonds. Great after-dinner drink or with biscotti. Drink: 2013 - 2018 297788 20% S 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Vergenoegd Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: This full-bodied red wine is at or just slightly past peak. Still drinking beautifully, but the fruit is completely mature now and I suggest cracking it open now. Drink: 2009 - 2014 68445 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Lar De Paula Reserva Heredad De Baro Tempranillo 2005, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Completely mature: leather, cigar box, dried fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. I say drink it now. Drink: 2010 - 2014 208207 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vega Sauco Adoremus Tinta De Toro 2008, D.O., Toro, Spain: A port-like, oxidized richness of dried fruit and currant liqueur. Full-bodied and supple. Demans a hearty meat dish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 268813 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Black Stallion Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Silverado Trail, Napa Valley, California, United States: A reputable Napa Valley cabernet with signature aromas of black fruit, mocha and toasty oak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 256768 14.5% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kistler Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied, rich and round with seductive aromas of tree fruit, brioche and green apple goodness. Finishes with hickory smoke and a desire for a second glass. Chardonnay food pairings: panko-crusted grilled chicken, salmon steaks, basil pesto, prawn bisque, cheese fondue. Drink: 2013 - 2017 183921 14.1% XD 750 mL $149.95 Score: 93/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Talbott Logan Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay 2011, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, United States: Liquid lovely! Full-bodied but not heavy. Savoury and juicy with layers of rich yellow and green apple, orange zest and happiness. Yes please! Drink: 2013 - 2017 716290 14.9% D 750 mL $32.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Karia Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied white wine with great balance. Peach and butterscotch. Try it with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork, lobster. Drink: 2013 - 2016 27216 13.5% XD 750 mL $51.00 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Francis Ford Coppola Diamond Collection Silver Label Pinot Noir 2012, Monterey County, California, United States: Juicy with black cherry and mocha notes. Satin texture and medium-bodied. Slippery good! The warm climate shows through the rich fruitiness and texture of this wine. Lots of lovely toasty oak. Pair with watching Dracula. Pinot Noir food pairings: planked salmon, pasta with a cream sauce, turkey dinner, grilled radicchio, eggplant parmigiana, lamb burgers. Drink: 2012 - 2016 47720 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J. Lohr Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Paso Robles, California, United States: Mocha-espresso nose with fleshy blackberry and black plums. Full-bodied and smooth with a cleansing grip on the finish. A thoroughly delicious wine for the holidays. Great balance and structure, yet rich and generous. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: braised ribs, slow-roasted beef, avocado and papaya salad, Asian chicken salad, autumn hodge-podge. Drink: 2013 - 2016 686584 14.9% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Beringer Merlot 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Smoky oak with tasty dark chocolate and black plum aromas and flavours. Fairly smooth though decanting for 2 hours will help. A towering merlot of great depth and structure from one of Napa's flagship producers. Soul soothing and heart quickening. Merlot food pairings: beef stew, prime rib, lamb cutlets, coq au vin, pot roast. Drink: 2013 - 2016 919647 14.3% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha rich with aromas of fleshy blackberries and plums and chocolate. Round and layered with lots of length on the finish. Decant 1-2 hours. This would be a terrific dinner party wine or gift wine. Give it to yourself! Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, lamb with rosemary. Drink: 2012 - 2018 119065 14.8% XD 750 mL $154.00 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: A cult cabernet from the heart of Napa Valley that is screamingly over-priced. Yes it's good, for $45. Full-bodied with dark fruit and a finish to satisfy fools who love to throw away their money. Drink: 2013 - 2017 329375 15.2% D 750 mL $159.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rodney Strong Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Love this style of cabernet! Balanced, deep, long and ultimately satisfying. Classic aromas of blackberry and cassis. Satin smooth and full-bodied. Decant 1-2 hours. Classic Californian cabernet. Yes please! Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: tender cuts of steak and other meats. Drink: 2013 - 2017 382325 14.9% D 750 mL $69.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Toasted Head Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, North Coast, California, United States: Mocha-coffee goodness wraps around black fruit and smoke aromas. Full-bodied and smooth with a nice grip. Decant for a 1 hour. This wine is usually aged for 18-20 months in French and American oak. There's a great grip (and growl) in this robust, chest-beating red for wild game. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued gourmet sausages, avocado and papaya salad, Asian chicken salad, autumn hodge-podge, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2016 686824 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Peachy Canyon Winery Westside Zinfandel 2011, Paso Robles, California, United States: Tasty and robust with smooth layers of black and purple plum fruit flavour. Great finish that leaves your mouth watering for more. Loaded with blackberry jam richness and mocha notes. Perfect for grilled anything. Zinfandel food pairings: roast pork in rich sauces, spicy, tomato-laced meat stews, barbecued chicken, lamb shanks. Drink: 2013 - 2015 930644 15.2% XD 750 mL $30.25 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kenwood Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Sonoma County, California, United States: Very pleasant and medium-bodied with cedar and cassis aromas and flavours. Concentrated and balanced with a satisfyingly long finish. Great for holiday entertaining. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: autumn hodge-podge, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 468157 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, United States: This is New World pinot in all its juicy glory. I love this wine year after year! Sweet cherry pie and raspberry jam on the nose and palate (technically it's a dry wine but the flavours are lusciously fruity sweet). Lots of layers of pleasure and hedonism. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast chicken, basil pesto, frittata. Drink: 2013 - 2018 212076 14.5% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 94/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Napa Valley, California, United States: Stunning in both taste and price. Complex, rich and deep with layers of subtly nuanced dark fruit, smoke, violets, anise and smoke. Wow. Matured for 2 years in new American oak, but the oak is judiciously woven in with the fruit. Celebrate with this wine. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork or beef tenderloin. Drink: 2010 - 2017 936039 13.7% XD 750 mL $282.95 Score: 92/100. November 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sterling Vineyards Vintner's Pinot Noir 2011, California, United States: Lovely cherry-berry aromas and flavours in this smooth, medium-bodied red wine. This is a remarkably great price for pinot noir, let alone a California pinot. Perfect for turkey and roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2019 226571 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. November 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart