Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release May 24, 2014

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Argentina

Crios Susana Balbo Dominio Del Plata Torrontés 2013, Mondoza, Argentina: This Argentine gem of a wine introduces itself with lime and apple blossom. Medium-bodied, floral and expressive: it's so pretty. Perfect for mild and medium curries and spices. The price is simply amazing for the taste. This is one of Argentina's best winemakers. Torrontés food pairings: seafood, salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 1834 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dominio Del Plata Crios Limited Edition Red Blend Named Varietal Blends-Red 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Mocha, coffee, espresso -- oak aging anyone? Crios means offspring, a reference to the winemaker's children and her wines. This is a blend of 40% Malbec, 40% Bonarda, 15% Tannat and 5% Tannat grapes. Polished tannins and black fruit and spice on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2015 366146 13.9% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Leo Premium Valentín Bianchi Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Mocha dark chocolate blackberry express. Full-bodied, round and smooth and sweet on flavour. Drink: 2013 - 2017 375121 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Dark as night, and just as mysterious and intriguing! This powerful red wine comes out fighting with delicious dark fruit and toasty oak. The grapes for this wine come from 40-year-old vines near the Lujan de Cuyo and Las Compuertas regions. Approximately, 40% of the wine is matured in French oak barrels for 1 year. Delightful! Malbec food pairings: game, lamb, spaghetti and meat balls, veal cutlets, osso buco, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 261867 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chakana Maipe Reserve Bonarda 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Black fleshy plums with a good grip, like a friend that grabs you by the forearm and tells you the truth. The grapes for this wine are fermented in small lots and the wine is barrel aged for 12 months. True Andean terroir. Bonarda food pairings: pulled pork sammies, grilled meats in a black bean sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 361212 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alta Vista Premium La Casa Del Ray Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Wow, this is a full-on red loaded with flavour and character! Aromas of fleshy blackberry, cassis and toasty oak. It's big, but balanced and cries out for a brontosaurus burger, or another hearty meat dish. Gorgeous dark colour belies the concentration of this powerhouse that finishes long and satisfying. Superb value. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled sausages, juicy steaks, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 129957 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

De Bortoli Wines - Yarra Valley Gulf Station Pinot Noir 2012, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: Terrific! A gorgeous, silky pinot noir with layers of fleshy black cherries and a satin-rich texture. The grapes for this wine come from the Brookland Vineyard and provide great balance of fruit ripeness and some zingy acidity. Try this vibrant red wine with cheese pizza. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, pasta, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 15511 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rolf Binder Shiraz 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Here's a lip-smacking, delicious red wine at a great price! Bursting with aromas of black fruit and dark spice, this shiraz over-delivers and floods the senses. You order the pizza, and I'll pour the wine. Shiraz food pairings: hamburgers, pizza, black bean soup, cheese, beef. Drink: 2013 - 2019 54239 14% XD 750 mL $52.25 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tar & Roses Pinot Grigio 2013, Central Victoria, Australia: Clean and crisp with no heavy oak. Lime and lemon brightness on the nose and palate. The alcohol is high but not detectable as this wine has lovely balance and refreshment. Drink: 2013 - 2015 282723 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Austria

Salomon-Undhof Gruner Veltliner 2013, Austria, Austria: From Salomon-Undhof, just name of this wine is a mouthful! It's pronounced GROO-ner VELT-lee-ner and offers racy acidity and mouth-watering action. Troken means dry. Limes and white grapefruit head to the finish line to create an exciting sense of vibrancy and refreshment. No oak. Try it with clams or mussels. Gruner Veltliner food pairings: seafood dishes, chicken, avocado green curry with cilantro and lime. Drink: 2013 - 2015 669606 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Mike Weir Winery Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2012, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Balanced and full-bodied Chardonnay that uses four types of oak for aging. This flavourful Chardonnay is an exquisite expression of Ontario's wonderful 2012 vintage. Creamy texture, refined and elegant, this Chardonnay exudes layers of pear, lemon and vanilla along with subtle nuances of French oak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 367813 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sperling Vineyards Speritz Ann Sperling Moscato 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: So lovely! If you like Moscato d'Asti or even Prosecco, try this please. It's a gently fizzy and spritely white wine with enticing aromas of honeysuckle and apple blossom. Love the fact it's only 7% alcohol, yet packs so much flavour. Hello breakfast wine ;) Moscato food pairings: fruit or cheese platters. Drink: 2013 - 2015 364166 7.4% D 375 mL $13.00 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Pinot Noir Rosé 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy and savoury with dried herbs, garrigue and tart cherry aromas. Good acidity for a wide range of dishes. Finishes very dry with black raspberry. Pinot Noir Rosé food pairings: ham sandwiches. Drink: 2014 - 2016 336461 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kew Vineyards Blanc de Noir 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp and clean with baked bread and green apple notes. Good value for the price. This is a new winery worth following. The original vineyards were planted in 1975, among the oldest in the region, and winemaker Philip Dowell is an old hand with a well-established reputation in the region. Blanc De Noir food pairings: salmon sashimi. Drink: 2013 - 2017 380030 12% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Chardonnay Musqué 2011, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Delicate but racy; floral with petrol lint on the nose. Good acidity. Great for shellfish and seafood. Much more crisp and zesty than "regular" chardonnay. Some spritz here on the palate for more zest. Chardonnay Musqué food pairings: pork kebabs, spiced chicken and preserved lemons, zucchini flowers stuffed with herbed ricotta and tied with a chive sprig. Drink: 2012 - 2015 381897 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rockway Vineyards Wild Ferment Small Lot Block Chardonnay 2012, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara V.Q.A., Canada: A medium-bodied, soft chardonnay without a lot of acidity. Ripe and round melon and peach aromas with some oak, not a lot. Balanced and accessible. Only 125 cases of this wine were made. Drink: 2013 - 2016 346155 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Calamus Estate Winery Riesling 2012, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Petrol and peach on the nose of this acidic white wine that is medium in sweetness. Medium-bodied with mouth-watering juiciness. Riesling food pairings: spring salads. Drink: 2013 - 2017 158642 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

La Joya Reserve Viognier 2013, Colchagua Valley, Chile: This aromatic jewel of a wine from Bisquertt Family Vineyards will keep you coming back to the glass to see how it's unfolding. Exotic aromas of white flowers, baking spices and some white pear. Perfect for mild to medium curries and spicy dishes. Medium-bodied. Viognier food pairings: cashew chicken stir-fry, mild curries, shellfish, ham. Drink: 2014 - 2018 168542 14.3% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Ema Barrel Reserve Syrah 2011, Cachapoal Valley, Chile: Staggeringly great price for such voluptuous goodness in the glass. Full-bodied, dark and curvy. This robust red is made from 100% Syrah grapes. Pair with grilled chicken. Syrah food pairings: smoky grilled steaks. Drink: 2012 - 2016 371161 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Montes Alpha Syrah 2010, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Let me count the ways I love this wine: flavour, texture, body, depth, finish... I could go on, but I can see that you're eyeing the bottle. What a amazing wine for the money. Dark plums dance head to head with smoke and spice. I have a feeling that you'll be buying this wine year after year. Syrah food pairings: beef, game, BBQ sauced spareribs, hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2018 612 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Château Saint-Aubin Fernandez De Castro Meritage 2010, Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Splendifourous! Especially for the bargain basement price for Bordeaux from a great vintage. I'm buying a case. You? Aromas of black fruit, tar and toasty oak. Layered, complex and a dark attitude. Decant 1-2 hours, but try cellaring it. Advice I won't take myself given tendencies to instant gratification. Drink: 2015 - 2020 369389 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bosquet des Papes Cuvée Tradition 2011, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Produced by Maurice Et Nicolas Boiron, Prop.-Récolt., this generous and full-bodied red wine offers attractive aromas of dark cherry, berry and spice-infused smoke. Try this AC wine with a hearty meat dish tonight. Drink: 2015 - 2023 726687 14.5% XD 750 mL $58.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Vignes Bila-Haut M. Chapoutier 2012, Côtes Du Roussillon Villages, Midi A.C., France: Staggeringly great value in this full-bodied red wine that's a blend of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah grapes. This AC-designated wine features brooding black fruit, dark spices and intrigue. What a great price for such quality, especially from such an iconic winemaker as Chapoutier. Try it tonight with pepperoni pizza. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes, lamb, steak, ripe cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 168716 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Le Gravillas Séguret Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2011, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Wild heather, lavender and violets blowing in a summer breeze, fragrant with sunshine idleness. Lovely complexity and layers of black sun-ripened fruit. Take me there now please. This wine is a blend of Grenache and Syrah. Try is with game birds and serve at 17oC exactly... kidding. Drink: 2014 - 2019 309260 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Saransot-Dupré Meritage 2010, Bordeaux A.C., France: Seductive black cherry liqueur aromas with a blueberry-blackberry edge of darkness. The nose on this beauty is so intriguing: it's hard to pin down. I like an elusive nature in a wine. Why ruin it with words? Oh right, that's my job. Try this with a heart of darkness meat dish that's still growling. Produced by Yves Raymond, Prop. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2014 - 2019 65870 13.4% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Martin Plan De Dieu 2011, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Is it God's plan that I drink this wine? Well, maybe not, but I think Bacchus may have plans for me with this bottle. Full-bodied, balanced and generously flavoured with black fruit, dark spice and smoke. Most excellent for the price. This wine is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, and it was aged for 12 months in oak then unfiltered with light fining before bottling. Try with cheddar cheese and game meats. Drink: 2013 - 2018 370197 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Montaiguillon Meritage 2010, Montagne St-Emilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: A wild, feral, full-bodied red wine with growling notes of cedar underbrush, black wild tart raspberry and menace. Layered and complex. Most excellent for the price. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2015 - 2020 374405 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Courtois La Grange Vinsobres 2011, Rhône A.C., France: Solid performer. Full-bodied, rustic, straight-up pleasure. No BS. Aromas of black fruit and some toasty oak. Campfire top up wine. Produced by P. & R. Jaume. I have to smile when I see "Vinsobres" ... sober wine? Ha. Drink: 2014 - 2018 374983 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Bellane Valréas 2010, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.P., France: Pleasant, full-bodied, constant sipper. (trust me, that glass just keeps wanting to get to your lips.) Aromas of dark red fruit, black spice and smoke. Good price. Vineyards are planted at 410 metres above sea level next to 120 beehives and a truffle forest... how's that for a storybook setting? And they all drank happily ever after. Drink: 2014 - 2018 374991 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Vincens Prestige 2011, Cahors, Southwest A.C., France: The Cahors winemaking region in southern France produces very robust red wines, like this one. The prices are often excellent for the quality, as is the case for this bottle. This AC wine offers black fruit aromas and flavours wrapped up in lots of toasty, smoky oak. Some dark spices on the finish. Try it tonight with meat lovers' pizza. Yum! Food pairings: beef stew. Drink: 2014 - 2018 272427 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J.M. Raffault Les Picasses Chinon Cabernet Franc 2010, Loire A.C., France: Very tart, but pleasantly so. Sour cherry and cranberry with lots of acidity for roast chicken. Medium-bodied and supple. Drink: 2013 - 2016 367011 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Saint Estève D'uchaux Massif D'uchaux 2010, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Full-bodied with black fruit and toasty oak and a dry finish. This robust red wine is a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah. Finishes with black spice. Produced by Gerard & Marc Francais, Prop.-Récolt. Drink: 2013 - 2017 370189 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gabriel Meffre Sainte-Catherine Gigondas 2011, Rhône A.P., France: Full-bodied with dark fruit and toasty oak. Very dry finish. Dried herbs on the finish. Try it with roasted leg of lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 370270 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Lafond Roc-Épine Lirac 2011, Rhône A.P., France: Aromas of freshly picked wild raspberries in a basket sitting in a cool, breezy barn with both doors open at the front and back. You betcha this wine takes me there. Full-bodied, smooth and tasty. Love the effortless concentration and generosity of flavour. Drink: 2014 - 2018 128660 14.8% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Saint-Pierre 2011, Vacqueyras, Rhone A.C., France: A blockbuster red wine that's made from a blend of Grenache (60%) and Syrah (40%) grapes. Loaded with aromas of blackberry, cassis, tar and toasty oak. Decant 2 hours or cellar for a few years. This robust red was matured in a combination of old wood and tank. Great value. Produced by E.A.R.L. Fauque, Prop.-récolt. Food pairings: roast beef, prime rib. Drink: 2014 - 2020 130013 14.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Maison Coquard Fleur De Printemps Fleurie Gamay (Beaujolais) 2012, Beaujolais A.P., France: Pleasantly tart cherries and cranberries with some lovely spice notes. Medium-bodied, supple and lots of juicy acidity. Perfect for summer days and cold chicken sandwiches. Produced by Christophe Coquard. Drink: 2013 - 2016 364984 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Font Du Vent Notre Passion Signargues 2010, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.P., France: Raspberry pie and blackberry liqueur aromas on this full-bodied well-priced red wine that's a blend of Grenache and Syrah. Nice price. Produced by Bertrand & Guillaume Gonnet, Vign. Try it with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 370221 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine La Guintrandy 2012, Côtes Du Rhône A.P., France: Full-bodied, juicy and delicious! Seductive aromas of fleshy black raspberry and some smoke. Finishes ultra-dry. Perfect for grilled pork chops. This robust red wine is a blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. Produced by Olivier Cuilleras, Prop.-récolt. Food pairings: venison stew. Drink: 2015 - 2019 374975 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Des Fines Caillottes Jean Pabiot & Fils Pouilly-Fumé 2012, Loire A.C., France: The quality designation for this wine is AC -- it's citrus-driven rather than herbal or grassy. Classic Old World Sauvignon Blanc. This winery uses sustainable farming methods. The vines are planted in limestone-clay soils. Pouilly-Fumé food pairings: pan-seared scallops with grilled asparagus, cheese, pasta with cream-based sauce, pizza, sushi. Drink: 2013 - 2016 695908 12.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De La Valériane Vieilles Vignes 2012, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Black plum and blackberry liqueur on the nose and concentration of flavour on the palate. Tannic, brooding and dark. Required decanting 1-2 hours and a brontosaurus burger. A blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes. Rustic on the finish. Produced by Valérie Collomb, Proprietor.-récolt. Drink: 2014 - 2017 374280 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Grand Dignitaire Gadagne Terres D'avignon 2012, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.P., France: Rustic, full-bodied with black fruit, smoke, oak and garrigue aromas and flavours. Good grip on the palate. Decant 1-2 hours and serve with a pepper steak. Growl. Drink: 2014 - 2018 376475 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roger & Didier Raimbault Sancerre 2012, Loire A.C., France: Lovely balance and acidity here in a sun-dappled Old World Sauvignon Blanc. Pure expression of fruit, great mineral intensity. Drink: 2013 - 2016 82255 12.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean-Marc Brocard Vaucopin Chablis 1Er Cru 2011, Burgundy A.C., France: Pure green coolness on the nose and palate. Old World Chardonnay, classic. Short finish. Premier cru vineyard "Vaucoupin" is planted with 30-year-old vines on a hillside and the wine is fermented with indigenous yeast. Chablis 1Er Cru food pairings: oysters. Drink: 2013 - 2016 288019 13% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Beauvignac Picpoul De Pinet Les Costières De Pomérols 2013, Coteaux Du Languedoc, Midi A.C., France: Green, lime, acidic: refreshing, and mouth-watering. Medium-bodied. Picpoul de Pinet is a grape varietal as well as an AOC wine. The grapes are grown on southern France's Mediterranean coast, though this comes off as very cool climate white wine: think Vinho Verde x 10. Food pairings: wiener schnitzel and potato salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 350124 12.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lamiable Brut Grand Cru Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Toasty and classic Champagne at a great price. Tantalizing the senses, tickling the fancy. Try it with fried chicken tonight. Drink: 2013 - 2017 374298 12.5% XD 750 mL $53.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Bellevue La Forêt Rosé 2013, Fronton, Southwest A.C., France: Brought to us by Philip Grant, Proprietor, this dry, very elegant, lovely rose offers everything you want: great rosehip-dry cherry taste yet not overbearing. Perfect aperitif or companion to seafood. Spectacularly great price! Drink: 2013 - 2015 219840 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château d'Aquéria Tavel Rosé 2013, Cotes Du Rhône A.C., France: One of my favourite roses of all time, consistently crazy great year after year. I think about this rose in the middle of January and mark off the days on the calendar until its release. Fresh field berries and rose petal. Robust, dry and mouth-watering Brought to us by Jean Olivier. Yes please! Rosé food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak. Drink: 2014 - 2016 319368 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. May 2014. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

E. Guigal Château D'ampuis 2007, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Black cherry liqueur heaven! Bring it on, then keep it coming, please. Full-bodied, smooth, supple. Dried herbs, great complexity, long, dry finish. Perfect for a wide range of meaty dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2020 727503 14% XD 750 mL $69.00 Score: 93/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Crau De Ma Mère 2011, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.P., France: This wine punches well above its weight and it's a bruiser: robust, powerful and pleasing. This is an AC wine comes from Vign. Mayard, Prop.-Récolt. Black fruit and toasty oak lead you straight to a juicy, rare steak. Bring it! Food pairings: steak. Drink: 2015 - 2021 941740 14.5% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 93/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Albert Morot Beaune Les Teurons 1Er Cru Albert Morot Beaune Les Teurons 1Er Cru 2011, Burgundy A.C., France: Fleshy black cherry that press up against your senses, then roll seductively across your tongue. There's also the siren call of dark spice, mystery and intrigue on the satin smooth medium- to almost full-bodied Pinot Noir. Like slipping into a cold silk lingerie. Try it with planked salmon or foreplay. Drink: 2014 - 2020 902833 14% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 94/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem M. Chapoutier 2011, Côtes De Roussillon-Villages Latour De France, Midi A.C., France: Complex, mysterious and spectacular! Full-bodied, juicy, layered and smooth. Endless finish. I love the Braille label, plus the name includes a nice dose of Latin: perfect teacher's pet gift for end of the year (or perhaps now to lock in those 90s). Aromas of baked black fruit yet dry. So very delicious. Wish I knew the Latin phrase for that ... ultimum delici vinum! Drink: 2014 - 2020 643239 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 95/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rasteau Ortas Tradition 2011, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: A bold, big flavoured red wine with black cherry liqueur notes and smoke. Terrific value and taste here for the price. Try it with roast beef tonight. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 998716 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Lazzeretti Brunello Di Montalcino 2007, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This Brunello has many years ahead of it, unless of course, you can't resist drinking it. A DOCG wine that has such lovely replays of flavour across the palate, including coffee, spice, mocha and dark berry. This robust red wine cries out for a hearty meat dish. Listen to this wine and you'll have a terrific meal! Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled meats, game. Drink: 2014 - 2021 318352 14% XD 750 mL $42.95 Score: 93/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coltibuono Rs Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Bright with an inner core that radiates bright cherry happiness. Full-bodied, smooth and delicious. Nice price. Made from the Sangiovese grape. Quel surprise. Pair with spicy Italian sausages as well as spicy Italians. Drink: 2014 - 2018 532002 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domus Vitae Rosso Di Montalcino Sangiovese (Chianti) 2010, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: This full-bodied red wine is very dry with mouth-watering aromas and flavours of wild red fruit and cranberries. Try it with mildly spicy dishes, pasta in tomato sauce and grilled pork chops. Sangiovese (Chianti) food pairings: penne arrabbiata with spicy sausages, barbecued salmon with capers. Drink: 2014 - 2018 168757 13.8% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marziano Abbona Terlo Ravera Barolo 2008, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: As brooding as Bach, as dark as Heathcliffe: this is a towering monument to all dark forces that move us to delight. Tannic, yes so it could use cellar time and certainly decant 1-2 hours when opening it. Dark fruit, tar, violets and truffles comingle and delight. Barolo food pairings: anchovy pizza, porcini mushrooms, prime rib beef. Drink: 2014 - 2022 67918 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Montalbera La Tradizione Ruché Di Castagnole Monferrato 2011, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Cherry pie cooling on a country kitchen window. Lovely aromas and seduction on the palate. Finishes with dried herbs and longing ... for another glass. Food pairings: white bean and ham stew, spicy tuna burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2018 596113 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Stoneleigh Latitude Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Gorgeous aromas of lime blossom, gooseberry, pink grapefruit and a delicate hint and finesse of white flowers. Lovely citrus lift throughout: this is not a grassy sauvignon blanc. Lots of elegance and refinement yet also beautifully refreshing. Try it with seafood, salads, spinach quiche and vegetarian dishes. Also a min-blowing aperitif. Drink: 2013 - 2015 324228 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. May 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: One of New Zealand's best known (and most loved) Sauvignon Blancs, Kim Crawford delivers well above it's price point. This half bottle size is great when you only want a couple of glasses of wine, and it offers terrific lemon and lime brightness. The full bottle size is also available in liquor stores now. Winemaker Anthony blends different vineyard parcels of the grapes, like they do in Champagne to create more complexity and interesting flavours. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cheese, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2015 160085 13% XD 375 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Konrad Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Love the profusions of aromas on the nose of this zippy New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc! This is a very consistently good producer of kiwi savvy, and this particular vintage brings with it aromas of spring peas, limes, lemongrass and that summertime favourite of a freshly mowed lawn. Marlborough is a go-to region for Sauvignon Blanc. Try it with spinach quiche tonight. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: sea bass in a citrus sauce, pan seared chicken with a creamy tarragon sauce, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 171768 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.80 Score: 92/100. May 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Meandro Do Vale Meão 2011, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: The Douro region continues to impress me with the rising quality of its dry table wines like this one. Robust, concentrated and deep, this red wine has so much to offer alongside a juicy steak. Meandro do Vale Meão is Quinta do Vale Meão's second wine, and it's produced by F. Olazabal & Filhos with the same meticulous attention to detail as the flagship wine. Drink: 2014 - 2018 244731 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ninfa Single Vineyard João Barbosa & Filhos Touriga Nacional Syrah 2010, Vinho Regional Tejo, Portugal: Holy bacon Batman! Meat, herbs and sizzling steak aromas. Weird but tasty. Full-bodied and juicy. Pair with more bacon. Touriga Nacional Syrah food pairings: blackened steaks, burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 375329 13.9% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Aromas Das Castas Quinta Da Lixa Alvarinho Trajadura 2012, Monçao And Melgaço, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: Extreme acidity, green freshness, lime zest. No oak, just laser focus and mouth-watering action. The Alvarinho grape is one of the least productive in the world so it yields concentrated flavours of stone fruit such as tart white peach and green pear. The Trajadura grape adds complexity and finesse. Both are traditional grapes of the Vinho Verde region. Drink: 2012 - 2015 370056 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2008, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: Liquid gorgeous! Accessible far earlier than vintage port. Dow's is owned by the famous Symington family , the vice regals of port otherwise known as Symington Family Estates. Perfect as a dessert on its own or with Black Forest cake. Port food pairings: Roquefort, Cheddar, Stilton cheese, dark chocolate-themed desserts, crème brûlée, variety of nuts. Drink: 2013 - 2020 613927 19% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Broadbent Rainwater Medium-Dry Madeira, Madeira D.O.C., Portugal: Love it! My favourite Madeira ever, wow. Not that I've tasted many but this has a lovely toffee balance yet it's not cloyingly sweet. Perfect for biscotti and coffee cake. Brought to us by Justino's, Madeira Wines, S.A. Drink: 2013 - 2020 943258 19% M 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Audacia Shiraz 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Coffee, mocha and espresso big time on the nose then surprising acidity on the palate of this full-bodied red wine. Sounds weird but it's still a tasty combo with the right meal like grilled pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2016 366211 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Solid, delicious, beautifully balanced with juicy black fruit and just the right amount of toasty oak. Some blackcurrant and cassis on the finish. Aged for 18 months in French oak. Vineyards are planted on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountain. Drink: 2014 - 2018 949305 13.5% XD 750 mL $36.00 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Monte Pinadillo Crianza Tempranillo 2010, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Lovely, voluptuous and layered with black fruit aromas, silky smooth tannins, and an enveloping sense that all is right with the world. This full-bodied wine is made from 100% Tinto Fino aka Tempranillo. The vineyards are located in the heart of the region on the banks of the Duero River and the wine is aged in French and American oak. Produced by San Roque de La Encina. Drink: 2014 - 2018 360768 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Torres Perpetual 2010, Priorat D.O.C.A., Spain: Whispers mocha espresso on the nose from oak aging, followed by a full whistle stop of fleshy blackberry aromas. This robust red wine is a blend of Garnacha and Carinena grapes planted in licorella slate soils on steep hillsides. Sounds like a lot of hot, back-breaking work to pick these suckers. You should be appreciative. The wine is aged in fine-grained French oak barrels for 18 months. Pair with filet mignon. Drink: 2014 - 2019 265710 15.4% D 750 mL $61.35 Score: 92/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Cosentino Cigarzin Old Vine Zinfandel 2011, California, United States: Surprisingly low in alcohol for such a full-bodied, full-flavoured Californian zinfandel. Pure delicious! Smoky with fleshy black fruit. Complex zinfandel in all its glory. Yahoo! Zinfandel food pairings: steaks, ribs, grilled meats, pasta sauces, pizza, cheese, hearty stews, blackened seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2017 269340 15.4% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bonaccorsi Cargasacchi Pinot Noir 2010, Santa Rita Hills, California, United States: Full-bodied, full-throttle Pinot Noir with mocha, black cherry sundae aromas and flavours. Very smooth and supple. Drink: 2013 - 2016 329599 14% D 750 mL $53.95 Score: 91/100. May 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mica Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha, blackcurrant, cassis and dark chocolate with a gorgeous dark red robe in the glass. Concentrated and deep replays of dark fruit flavours across the palate. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: spiced steaks, grilled game, crown ribs. Drink: 2015 - 2020 210658 14.4% XD 750 mL $121.95 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chalk Hill Red Chalk Hill Estate Vineyard 2009, Chalk Hill, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Hulky, full-bodied, dry with brooding smoke, oak and cassis. Heavy bottle not a bonus. Apparently, according to the back label, three decades of research have been invested in the creation of this wine. Produced by William P. Foley II, Prop. Drink: 2014 - 2018 330225 15.6% D 750 mL $155.00 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

St. Supéry Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Grapefruit and lime aromas mingle on the nose, then open up to terrific refreshment and mouth-watering acidity on the palate. This isn't the grassy, herbal style of Sauvignon Blanc: it's citrus-driven, ideal for vegetarian dishes. Finishes with lemon zest. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cheese, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 339663 13.7% D 750 mL $29.25 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cliff Lede Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with smoky hazelnut from toasty oak aging. Very robust, with high alcohol though it's balanced. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: grilled or smoked fish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 675025 14.1% XD 750 mL $55.00 Score: 90/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

McManis Pinot Grigio 2012, California, United States: Crisp and clean with white peach and grapefruit notes. Medium-bodied. Pleasant aperitif. Pinot Grigio food pairings: seafood appetizers, pan-fried trout. Drink: 2013 - 2015 181453 11.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stonehedge Reserve Chardonnay 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Toasty oak and sweet peach on the nose and palate. Creamy with layers of vanilla, spice and buttered bread. Finishes with banana split sweetness. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken, lobster. Drink: 2013 - 2016 311548 13.9% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yamhill Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris 2011, Mcminnville, Yamhill Valley, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Clean and crisp with subtle notes of white grapefruit and some white pear. Medium-bodied, dry and acidic. Good aperitif or companion to shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 366294 13.1% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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