Pillitteri Estates Winery Gewurztraminer Icewine 2008, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario: Generous aromas and flavours of apricot, peach, mango, and clementine in this superb icewine. Harvested around Christmas 2008 at 39.5 Brix, the juice was fermented slowly to 200g/L residual sugar. Drink: 2013 - 2019 729954 11.5% S 375 mL $60.00 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Argentina
Finca Flichman Paisaje De Barrancas Named Varietal Blends-Red 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Black and purple plum liqueur with intense concentration. Smooth and ultra-full-bodied. This robust red wine is matured in French and American oak for 1 year. Decant 1-2 hours and put it beside steak. Highly recommended. Named Varietal Blends-Red food pairings: slow-cooked lamb stew, grilled steaks, portobello mushroom burgers. Drink: 2012 - 2015 17129 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Thorn-Clarke Shotfire Shiraz 2011, South Australia, Australia: A big, robust, brooding red wine with full-bodied weight and layering. Attractive aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, cassis and cedar. Smooth and ready when you are. Try it with meat lovers' pizza. Shiraz food pairings: beef rosciutto, black bean soup. Drink: 2013 - 2016 18796 14.5% D 750 mL $16.25 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Saltram Wine Estate Mamre Brook Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Seductive nose of cassis and blackberry aromas. A superbly crafted wine with tremendous balance yet it's still lip-smacking, juicy-delicious. This cabernet has both structure and elegance with a long finish. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Smoke and cedar on the finish: very savoury and satisfying! Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: blackened beef skewers, grilled steaks in a mushroom sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2016 48579 15.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Alkoomi Riesling 2010, Frankland River, Western Australia, Australia: Lovely petrol and white peach on the nose. Terrific intensity on the palate with a satisfying long finish. Great acidity for a wide range of dishes, from fresh seafood to salads. Nice price, too. Riesling food pairings: Asian chicken salad, risotto. Drink: 2012 - 2017 269290 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Small Gully Robert's Formula Shiraz 2009, South Australia, Australia: Lots of toasty oak on the nose from generous oaking plus dark roasted black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth with great heft. This packs a punch flavour-wise. Demands hearty meat dishes. This wine was fermented on its skins for seven days, then matured 3 years in oak and another 10 months in bottle. Try it with a juicy steak tonight. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, salmon, turkey with traditional trimmings, spicy chorizo sausages, peppercorn steaks, grilled or roasted meats. Drink: 2012 - 2015 142935 15.9% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart Of The Barossa Shiraz 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This full-bodied red wine has lip-smacking delicious aromas and flavours of black and purple fruit. Smooth and supple. 167189 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Penfolds Bin 138 Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A structured and balanced blend of dark fruit, smoke and a touch of spice on the finish. Elegant and full-bodied, but not heavy. Some dark spice on the finish. Highly recommended. Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre food pairings: roast beef, brisket. Drink: 2013 - 2016 468637 14% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ben Glaetzer Bishop Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Smoke and black fruit on the nose with more charcoal, heart-warming warmth on the palate. Full-bodied, supple and smooth. Very tasty. Shiraz food pairings: grilled game, bison burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 627869 15.1% D 750 mL $44.00 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wolf Blass Black Label Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2008, South Australia, Australia: A full-on, full-bodied red wine with rich, deep layers of ripe black fruit and seductive smoky oak. New World vitality and style. Closed with a screwcap. The 1998 vintage of this wine won the coveted Jimmy Watson Award, the most prestigious wine award in Australia. This wine is mostly a blend of Shiraz with about a third Cabernet Sauvignon and a dash of Malbec grapes. It was matured in French and American oak for 22 months. Great structure, long finish. What more could you want? Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec food pairings: ratatouille, beef fajitas, roast beef, roast goose, creamed onions, lamb shanks. Drink: 2013 - 2020 960468 14% XD 750 mL $99.95 Score: 94/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tait Wines The Ball Buster Red Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot food pairings: beef, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2016 269472 15.3% D 750 mL $24.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wolf Blass Black Label Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 1984, South Australia, Australia Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec food pairings: ratatouille, beef fajitas, roast beef, roast goose, creamed onions, lamb shanks. Drink: 2013 - 2020 960468 14% XD 750 mL $99.95 December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Austria
Bründlmayer Kamptaler Terrassen Gruner Veltliner 2013, Kamptal D.A.C., Austria Gruner Veltliner food pairings: chicken, veggie salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 979708 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Jackson-Triggs Methode Cuvee Close Reserve Sparkling 2015, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2017 - 2019 217679 13.3% XD 750 mL $17.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Foreign Affair Winery The Temptress Meritage 2015, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada Meritage food pairings: low-cooked Italian pot roast. Drink: 2013 - 2016 127340 14.3% XD 750 mL $44.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sperling Vineyards Old Vines Ann Sperling Riesling 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2017 361204 10.2% XD 750 mL $34.00 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hinterland Sparkling Wine Whitecap Method Charmat 2016, V.Q.A., Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada Food pairings: shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 332809 12% XD 750 mL $22.00 December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Foreign Affair Winery The Temptress Meritage 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada Meritage food pairings: low-cooked Italian pot roast. Drink: 2013 - 2016 127340 14.3% XD 750 mL $44.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sperling Vineyards Old Vines Ann Sperling Riesling 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2015 - 2019 361204 10.2% XD 750 mL $34.00 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Blasted Church Vineyards Pinot Gris 2013, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada Drink: 2013 - 2015 353128 13% D 750 mL $24.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jackson-Triggs Methode Cuvee Close Sparkling 2013, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific sparkling wine for this price point! Zesty, clean and crisp with notes of green apple and toast. Try it as an aperitif or with turkey dinner. Drink: 2014 - 2016 217679 13.3% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Peller Estates Oak Aged Vidal Icewine 2012, Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Superb richness and layers in this icewines from the oak aging. It's like wrapping apricot in vanilla spice. The luscious mouth-filling intensity of flavour finishes with lemon drops and clementines. Drink: 2013 - 2019 12% S 375 mL $60.20 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wayne Gretzky Estates No.99 Cabernet Franc Icewine 2010, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Aromas of fresh strawberry and raspberry wrap themselves around your senses in this dazzling icewine. A superb effort. Drink: 2012 - 2020 12% S 375 mL $99.00 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Reif Estate Winery Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine 2012, Niagara River, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Homemade strawberry jam in a glass: this icewine is opulent and comforting at the same time. Raspberry, strawberry and rhubarb aromas and flavours flood the senses. Perfect with dark chocolate truffles. Cabernet Franc Icewine food pairings: Chocolate mocha coffee cake, red velvet cake, chocolate fondue. Drink: 2012 - 2022 652107 13.5% S 375 mL $95.00 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 2009, Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada Food pairings: salmon, lobster, seafood chowder, charcuterie and Dragon's Breath blue cheese. Drink: 2011 - 2013 256289 6.5% S 750 mL $25.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Foreign Affair Winery The Temptress Meritage 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Full-bodied, rich and layered with savoury, meaty notes and aromas of black fruit and smoke. Great with hearty meat dishes. Meritage food pairings: low-cooked Italian pot roast. Drink: 2013 - 2016 127340 14.3% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave Spring Cellars Estate Bottled Cave Spring Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy, mouth-watering aromas and flavours of tart cherries and fresh-turned earth! Lovely balance and appeal in the glass with one of Niagara's signature grapes and flagship producers. This wine would be perfect for holiday dinners, whether you're serving the turkey or bringing the hostess gift. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2012 - 2017 246551 13.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Blasted Church Vineyards Pinot Gris 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Fresh, crisp and clean with lime, green apple and white tart peach. Great aperitif or companion to seafood. Mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2013 - 2015 353128 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave Spring Cellars Cave Spring Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2008, V.Q.A., Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: A terrific example of cool-climate cabernet franc! Full-bodied, balanced and delicious. This appealing red offers aromas and flavours of dark plums with some herbal notes. Toasty and tasty. Try it with a hearty meat dish by a blazing fire. Cabernet Franc food pairings: herb-rubbed chicken, beef stew, goat cheese, turkey, Asian-styled noodles. Drink: 2012 - 2017 72751 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sperling Vineyards Old Vines Ann Sperling Riesling 2011, V.Q.A., Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: A vibrant, aromatic white wine with lovely aromas of green apple, lime zest and white peach. So alive in the glass. Great aperitif or companion to seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2017 361204 10.2% XD 750 mL $34.00 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery The Lost Bar Vidal Icewine 2009, Okanagan Valley, Bc, Canada: Lovely richness and tropical fruit decadence in this icewine. A great dessert on its own or with biscotti or angel food cake. Drink: 2013 - 2019 776545400109 9% S 375 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hinterland Sparkling Wine Whitecap Method Charmat 2012, V.Q.A., Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada: A crisp and refreshing sparkling wine from one of Prince Edward County's emerging stars. This winery focuses on sparkling wine and that dedication shows in the glass. Aromas of green apple and freshly baked bread, with a lively finish. Food pairings: shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 332809 12% XD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Montes Twins 2011, Colchagua Valley, Chile: A full-bodied red wine blend of cabernet sauvignon and malbec. This delicious, gulpable red wine offers aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe black plums and blackberries. Try it with a juicy steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 352054 14% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Veramonte Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah Merlot Carmenere 2011, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Juicy-wonderful! Just dripping with fleshy berry flavor and plums with some real vibrancy and lift on the mid-palate. I love it! This wine is a blend of about a third cabernet sauvignon, a third syrah, and the balance split between merlot and carmenere grapes. Superb craftsmanship; great value. Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah Merlot Carmenere food pairings: brisket, beef ribs, pork chops, braised meats, winter stews. Drink: 2013 - 2016 712463 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Reserva Concha Y Toro Merlot Carmenère Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Casablanca, Rapel & Maipo Valleys, Chile: This full-bodied red wine offers vibrant aromas and flavours purple plums. Smooth and gulpable. Great price. Great for pizza. Merlot Carmenère Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: mushroom risotto and osso bucco, grilled steak. Drink: 2013 - 2015 433920 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Chateau Bertinerie Cru Réserve Bantegnies & Fils, Vign. Meritage 2009, A.O.C., Blaye Côtes De Bordeaux, France: Gorgeous depth and extraction of blackberry flavour here, with some dried herbs and a voluptuous texture. There’s some balancing cedary notes and herbal flavours that prevent the wine from tasting flabby. Full-bodied and scrumptious. This is an incredible price for this wine. Meritage food pairings: roast beef, blackened lamb. Drink: 2012 - 2016 244640 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Ferme Du Mont Côtes Jugunda Gigondas 2010, Rhône Ap, France: Black cherry liqueur richness and concentration on the nose and palate. Layered complexity on this full-bodied red wine made from grapes grown on 60-year-old vines in a 5-acre vineyard with soils of decomposed limestone over red clay. Aromas of black fruit, cedar brush and smoke with a long finish. Classic. Stéphane Vedeau is winemaker. Drink: 2014 - 2020 354118 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave De Roquebrun Les Fiefs D'aupenac 2011, A.C., Saint-Chinian-Roquebrun, Southwest, France: Black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours, incredibly concentrated and deep. Some herbal notes. Good finish. Drink: 2014 - 2018 354183 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Thevenet & Fils Bussières Les Clos Bourgogne Terroirs Originels Pinot Noir 2011, A.C., Burgundy, France: Extremely tart and acidity with sour cherry and cranberry notes. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Pinot Noir food pairings: beef bourguignon, tourtière with mushrooms, duck, turkey dinner. Drink: 2013 - 2015 356733 13% XD 750 mL $18.25 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Des Trois Orris Lhusanes 2006, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi, France: Peppery, spicy with black and purple plums! Delicious, robust and lip-smacking good. Perfect for pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 358515 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Mucyn Saint-Joseph Syrah Shiraz 2010, A.C., Rhône, France: This full-bodied red wine is made 100% from syrah grapes. It features aromas of black fruit, cedar and herbal notes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 358614 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Castelnau De Suduiraut 2Nd Wine Of Ch. Suduiraut Meritage 2010, A.C., Sauternes, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2013 - 2025 348797 14% S 750 mL $42.95 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Laurent Gauthier Morgon Vieilles Vignes Grand Cras Gamay (Beaujolais) 2011, A.C., Beaujolais, France: A happy, bright medium-bodied red wine. Fleshy ripe cherries and some strawberry-floral notes - wonderful splashing fun. Try it with roast chicken or turkey. Lovely dry finish. Incredibly great price. Drink: 2012 - 2016 279059 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Chante Cigale Tradition 2010, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhone, France: This spectacular red wine is a brilliant blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault grapes. It offers both Old World charm and New World concentration and depth of fruit. It reminds me of ancient monastery where the monks illuminate manuscripts: that smoky, earthy kind of aroma tinged with black fruit. Extraordinary… take your mouth on an adventure. Drink: 2012 - 2020 194993 14% D 750 mL $42.25 Score: 94/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Vincens Malbec 2009, A.C., Cahors, France: A full--bodied red with mocha-dark chocolate from oak again, black fruit. Great for pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2016 343400 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Beau Mistral Vieilles Vignes Rasteau Jean-Marc Brun, Vign.-Récolt. 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône Villages, France: This robust red wine offers aromas of black fruit, cedar, smoke and dried herbs. It's complex, layered and deep with a long finish. Drink: 2013 - 2018 343574 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Les Vignerons De Visan 2011, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages Visan, France: A full-bodied red with aromas and flavours of blackberries and cedar notes. Straight-up pleasure. Previous vintages of this wine have won the Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins de France in Mâcon. Try it tonight with hamburgers and all the fixins. Food pairings: roast beef tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2015 179234 14.3% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Castelnau De Suduiraut 2Nd Wine Of Ch. Suduiraut Meritage 2009, A.C., Sauternes, Bordeaux, France: Gorgeous profusion of peach and pear preserves with honeyed elixir finish. Wow. A luscious blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Drink: 2013 - 2025 348797 14% S 750 mL $42.95 Score: 93/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
José Dhondt Brut Champagne Blanc De Blancs, A.C., Champagne, France: Fresh, vibrant, creamy and lovely. White peach, green apple and toasty. Drink: 2013 - 2016 358408 12.5% XD 750 mL $53.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Cattin Gewurztraminer 2011, A.C., Alsace, France: Superb! Class Gewürz : rose petal, lychee and baking spice aromas. Mouth-watering and dry yet exotically floral. Previous vintages of this wine won the Gold Medal at the coveted Concours Général Agricole in Paris. Medium-bodied and mouth-filling. Perfect for Asian dishes and mild to medium curries. Gewurztraminer food pairings: ham, pork tenderloin topped with unsweetened apricot chutney, curried rice with cloves, cinnamon and cardamom. Drink: 2013 - 2018 224626 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Sparr Altenbourg Riesling 2010, A.C., Alsace, France: A refreshing, light-bodied white wine white with attractive and subtle melon notes. Terrific as an aperitif or companion to many seafood dishes or roast turkey given its mouth-watering juiciness. Nice price. Riesling food pairings: chicken salad, risotto, apple strudel. Drink: 2013 - 2018 906016 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Louis Jadot Domaine Gagey Le Clou D'orge Ladoix Chardonnay 2010, A.C., Burgundy, France: Lovely hazelnut and toasted almond on the nose give way to vibrant green apple on the palate. Classic Old World chardonnay. Very well-structured and satisfying. Drink: 2013 - 2018 356642 13.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vignobles Guilhem Viognier 2012, Pays D'oc, Midi, France: Classically floral viognier yet not over-the-top. Medium- to almost full-bodied with white peach and Asian pear. Tryu with mild to medium curries and spicy dishes. Viognier food pairings: turkey breast, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2016 358507 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly Fumé 2012, A.C., Loire, France: A vibrant Sauvignon Blanc with lemon-lime come hither liquid invitation. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering, whet your appetite way... Ready for seafood or vegetarian dishes when you are! Pouilly Fumé food pairings: seafood stir-fry, lemongrass chicken stew. Drink: 2013 - 2015 358697 12.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Chenevieres Chablis Chardonnay 2011, Burgundy, France: Just smelling this wine made my mouth water! Gorgeous aromas and flavours of lime, lemongrass, tart white peach and a laser pure focus and purity. No oak. Superb aperitif or food companion. Like chardonnay? Try this one. Chardonnay food pairings: poached salmon, seafood risotto, sushi, sashimi, good-quality goat cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2016 277913 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
Bollig-Lehnert Kabinett Piesporter Riesling 2011, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Loaded with flavour yet not heavy - and so low in alcohol. Peach, pear and happiness. Drink: 2013 - 2018 345736 8.5% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Peter Steger Edition Badischer Winzerkeller Pinot Noir 2011, Qualitätswein, Baden, Germany: Stewed strawberry is prominent yet the wine is pleasant and picks up pleasantly on the palate with spicy peppered black raspberry. Medium-bodied and smooth and mouth-watering. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken thighs in a garlic-sage rub, autumn stews with sausage. Drink: 2013 - 2015 345710 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bollig-Lehnert Kabinett Piesporter Riesling 2013, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany Drink: 2013 - 2018 345736 8.5% M 750 mL $16.95 December 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Bersano Costalunga Barbera d'Asti 2017, Piedmont, Italy Drink: 2019 - 2025 348680 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.15 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Beni di Batasiolo Langhe Rosso Dolcetto Barbera Nebbiolo 2010, Piedmont, Italy: A smooth, medium-bodied wine with attractive plum and berry notes. This red wine is a blend of Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo grapes, each of which contribute different flavours and complexity to the wine: Dolcetto offers ripe fruit, Barbera brings balancing acidity for food and Nebbiolo imparts tannin for structure. Enjoy with a prime rib. Dolcetto Barbera Nebbiolo food pairings: gourmet sausages, meat-based pasta dishes, barbecued chicken, rare roast beef. Drink: 2013 - 2015 981019 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bersano Costalunga Barbera D'Asti 2015, Piedmont, Italy Drink: 2017 - 2021 348680 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.15 December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bersano Costalunga Barbera D'Asti 2014, Piedmont, Italy Drink: 2016 - 2020 348680 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.15 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pietranera Centolani Brunello Di Montalcino 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Gorgeous! Floral (wild violets) with some exotic spice and wild dark fruit. On the palate there's an immense lift so it's not heavy yet this is a richly complex wine. Wow, best brunello in a while. Drink: 2013 - 2019 189761 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 95/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Difese Tenuta San Guido 2011, I.G.T., Tuscany, Italy: Complex, full-bodied yet subtle. Gorgeous aromas of dried black cherry, cedar, smoke, fleshy blackberries. This full-bodied red wine is a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, that was aged for 1 year in French barriques. Decant for 1 hour and you're ready to go! Food pairings: pepper steak. Drink: 2013 - 2018 747030 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.90 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Vite Lucente 2011, I.G.T., Tuscany, Italy: Love it! Complex, full-bodied yet subtle. Gorgeous aromas of dried black cherry, cedar, smoke, fleshy blackberries. Buy this one for my birthday please. This full-bodied red wine is the second wine to Frescobaldi’s flagship label Luce. It's a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, and it was aged for 1 year in French barriques. Decant for 1 hour and you're ready to go! Food pairings: pepper steak. Drink: 2013 - 2019 747030 13.5% XD 750 mL $67.25 Score: 94/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michele Castellani Cinque Stelle Classico Amarone della Valpolicella 2008, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Full-bodied and delicious: it offers a full-palate-flavour of fleshy black cherries and blackberries. There's also some dried herbs and dark spices on the finish. Powerfully crafted for pleasure. Highly recommended. Amarone Della Valpolicella food pairings: ribeye steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 75127 15.5% D 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bersano Costalunga Barbera D'Asti 2012, Piedmont, Italy: A lovely, mouth-watering, medium-bodied red wine with aromas and flavours of tart cherry. Perfect for tangy tomato sauces. Great price. Drink: 2013 - 2015 348680 12.5% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
No 1 Family Estate No. 1 Cuvée, Méthode Traditionnelle, Blanc De Blancs, Marlborough, New Zealand: This zesty, full-bodied bubbly has lovely notes of lime, green apple and toast. This sparkling wine is made using the traditional champagne method, and winemaker Daniel Le Brun comes from a long line of Champagne winemakers, some 12 generations. Drink: 2013 - 2015 56358 12.5% D 750 mL $36.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, lime-citrus and still great at this price. Lively and zesty with mouth-watering acidity. Wonderful! It goes down slippery fast with terrific refreshment. There's gooseberry and lime zest on the finish. Perfect for salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, grilled radicchio, avocado and papaya Salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 686675 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Seresin Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy and herbal with crisp, ultra dry refreshment. Limes and lemons dance in delight across your palate. This medium-bodied white wine works as both an aperitif or companion to many dishes. A nice snap of refreshment on the finish. Complex and dry. Perfect for fresh seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: seafood, Asian chicken salad, rosemary-stuffed pork tenderloin, turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2015 735043 13.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, lime-citrus and still great at this price. Lively and zesty with mouth-watering acidity. Wonderful! This is the convenient half bottle size of this popular wine. It goes down slippery fast with terrific refreshment. There's gooseberry and lime zest on the finish. Perfect for salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, grilled radicchio, avocado and papaya Salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 199968 13% XD 375 mL $10.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Sandeman Quinta Dos Carvailhas Duque De Viseu 2009, Dao, Portugal: Dark, brooding and full-bodied: loaded with ripe blackberry and blackcurrant notes. Smooth and balanced. A wisp of smoke on the finish. Decant for 1-2 hours. Great price. Food pairings: barbecued chicken, stew, roast pork. Drink: 2013 - 2015 546309 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Newman's Celebrated Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: A straightforward tasty dessert wine. Not for analyzing, just enjoy it. Port food pairings: chocolate dessert, large chips of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Drink: 2013 - 2017 134908 20% S 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sandeman Quinta Dos Carvailhas Duque De Viseu 2007, Dao, Portugal Food pairings: barbecued chicken, stew, roast pork. Drink: 2013 - 2015 546309 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut Cap Classique Named Varietal Blends-Red 2011, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: Absolutely stunning for the money! Toasty, complex and refreshing. Aromas of baked bread and green apple. Wow. Named Varietal Blends-Red food pairings: sourdough toasts with mushrooms and oysters. Drink: 2013 - 2015 342758 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pecan Stream Waterford Estate Chenin Blanc 2012, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: Aromatic and robust white wine with mouthwatering acidity. Great with mild to medium spicy dishes and curries. Chenin Blanc food pairings: appetizers, main dishes featuring seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2015 34512 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clos Malverne Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2011, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: A terrific full-bodied red wine for the money! Black fruit, tannic grip on the palate so decant 1-2 hours. Great with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot food pairings: braised meats, hearty stews. Drink: 2013 - 2015 678433 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rust En Vrede Jean Engelbrecht, Prop. Shiraz 2011, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: This full-bodied red wine is more dusty and earthy Old World style than fruit New World though there is blackcurrant and cassis. There's also pencil led and smoke on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 220046 15.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Altolandón 2007, D.O., Manchuela, Spain: A full-bodied wine with purple plum notes and dusty earth. Tannic grip on the palate so decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2013 - 2016 359588 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Juvé Y Camps Cinta Purpura Reserva Brut Cava 2009, D.O., Cava, Catalunya, Spain: Lots of toasty oak and warmth on the nose. Refreshing, robust and deep and earthy. Drink: 2013 - 2015 352864 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Juan Gil 4 Meses De Cepas Viejas Monastrell 2012, D.O., Jumilla, Spain: Deal of the Century! Full-bodied, juicy, savoury and delicious. Loaded with dark wild blackberries, purple plums and forest-deep cherries and cedar. The 4 Meses translate to 4 months and correspond to how long the wine was aged in a mix of French and American oak, which imparts the wine with a toasty note. Decant this wine 1-2 hours for maximum pleasure. Monastrell food pairings: mushroom and wild rice dishes, savoury meat stews, braised meats, fajitas. Drink: 2013 - 2016 13656 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.25 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rioja Bordón Gran Reserva Bodegas Franco-Españolas Tempranillo 2006, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Lovely, mature aromas of leather, cigar box and dust. Not fruity. Full-bodied and smooth. Enjoy soon. Tempranillo food pairings: lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2024 12295 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava Sparkling, Penedès D.O., Spain: This crisp, refreshing sparkling wine is made from the local grapes Macabeo and Parellada. This bubbly almost leaps from the glass with aromas of baked bread, green apple and lees. Very dry and zesty. Great fizz for the New Year or with shellfish. 216960 12% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 89/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Chandon Méthode Traditionnelle Rosé 2012, California, United States Rosé food pairings: seafood dishes, lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2015 56341 12.5% D 750 mL $33.00 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chandon Méthode Traditionnelle Rosé 2015, California, United States Rosé food pairings: seafood dishes, lamb. Drink: 207 - 2019 56341 12.5% D 750 mL $33.00 December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mer Soleil Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2011, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, United States: Love this full-bodied chardonnay with aromas and flavours of peach, pear, toffee and butterscotch, the latter two from generous oak aging. This is the magnum size format that's the equivalent to two regular sized 750 ml bottles. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster tail, turkey pot pie. Drink: 2013 - 2017 271551 14% XD 1500 mL $74.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Roederer Estate Brut Sparkling White, Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California, United States: One of my favourite California sparkling wines that's consistently great year after year. The price of this zesty and refreshing sparkling wine is incredibly low, especially for the quality. Terrific toasty aromas with full-bodied weight and lift on the finish. Keep some in stock throughout the holidays. Drink: 2013 - 2015 294181 12% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rodney Strong Wine Estates Chardonnay 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: A lovely, balanced chardonnay at a great price. Just enough oak to balance the ripe tree fruit, especially pear and green apple. This style of chardonnay pairs well with dishes such as roast chicken and lobster in melted butter. A consistently good producer year after year. Chardonnay food pairings: basil pesto, prawn bisque, chicken, vegetable lasagna, turkey. Drink: 2012 - 2016 226936 13.7% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chandon Méthode Traditionnelle Rosé, California, United States: Attractive aromas of field strawberries in this crisp, dry sparkling wine. Refreshing, great price. Rosé food pairings: seafood dishes, lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2015 56341 12.5% D 750 mL $33.00 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Zinfandel 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A robust red wine with big purple and black plum aromas and flavours as well as blueberry pie. Smooth and supple. Ideal for meat lovers pizza. Zinfandel food pairings: pulled pork served with crackling pigskin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 281758 14.9% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cannonball Merlot 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: Lots of mocha and dark chocolate on the nose form oak aging. Some black fruit underneath and mouthwatering juiciness. Try with pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2015 342824 13.7% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Belle Glos Meiomi Joseph Wagner Pinot Noir 2012, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Sonoma Counties, California, United States: Fleshy ripe cherries and raspberries in this full-bodied, supple, smooth, jammy wine. Enjoy with charred seafood or chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: rib-eye steaks in a coffee porter sauce, bean mole with roast winter squash. Drink: 2013 - 2017 130138 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Classic Californian cabernet: beautifully sculpted with enticing aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and some dark spices. This is an extremely consistent producer year after year. Makes me want to hunt some ducks for dinner, or perhaps just order duck a l'orange at my local restaurant specializing in that dish. Some vanilla spice and smoke on the finish. This will cellar well. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: slow-roasted beef, grilled-rare steaks, grilled chicken, pot roast with wild mushrooms, prime rib with a Cabernet jus. Drink: 2013 - 2018 186171 13.9% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart