Bel Echo Terroir Greywacke Clos Henri Pinot Noir 2012, Marlborough, South Island: Love the blend of expressive New World fruit with a savoury, earthy Old World edge in style. Aromas of mouth-watering black cherry, luscious layers of satiny fleshy fruit with some spice on the finish. Superb quality and taste for the money. The signature of the Greywacke sandstone soil comes through on the both the palate and finish. Previous vintages of this wine have won the Gold Medal at the Royal Easter Show Wine Awards. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled beef, lamb skewers with a rosemary rub, roast chicken, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2016 159137 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.25 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Argentina
Trapiche Fincas Las Palmas Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied with attractive black fruit and smoke aromas. Balanced and elegant at an amazingly great price. Great with meat dishes. Finishes with black cherry. Try it with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2016 143206 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Malma Reserva Bodega Nqn Malbec 2010, Argentina, Argentina: Love it! Chewy and full-bodied with generously lush black and purple plums. Smooth with lots of layers of flavour and pleasure. Malma translates to “pride” in the native language of Mapuche. Absolutely perfect for gourmet hamburgers or meat lovers' pizza. Malbec food pairings: grilled sausages, slow-cooked saucy ribs, lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2015 222158 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Dry Riesling 2013, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Austerity writ large. Holy acids Batman! Come-alive Australian Riesling with crisp, cool lines of refreshment from start to finish. Love it! Petrol, lemon blossom, lime zest, mineral depth. Mouth-watering and dry. Supreme! Try it with creamy cheeses. Riesling food pairings: beef, game birds, pork, cheese, seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2018 262469 12.4% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz Cabernet 2012, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: A lively, mouth-coating red wine blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from a consistently good producer. This vintage offers aromas of minty blackberry on the nose with fleshy black plum on the palate. Round, supple and satisfying with a great finish. Try it with gourmet hamburgers and all the fixings. Shiraz Cabernet food pairings: pizza, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 186114 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Classic Australian Cabernet, with the power engine of fleshy fruit yet corns deftly like a sports car (excellent balance and structure). A rich and robust Cabernet with aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, cedar and blackberry. Fantastic price. Try it with pepperoni pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2019 203158 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Hedonist Walter Clappis Wine Co. Shiraz 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A towering, blockbuster red wine from Down Under! Superb intensity and concentration of flavour. Savory, meaty and juicy with luscious layers of black fruit. This is a big-boned wine, yet balanced. Love the replays of fleshy blackberries and plums across the palate. Mouth-watering and perfect for ribeye steak. Bring it on. Shiraz food pairings: bison steak, grilled cheese sandwich, chicken marsala, Mexican dishes, tandoori flavored dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 90191 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Smokie Ridge Vineyard Sabrevois Frontenac Noir Cabernet De Montage 2011, Mountain, Eastern Ontario, Canada: A full-bodied red wine blend of three unique hybrid grapes that grow well the cool climate of the Ottawa region in eastern Ontario. Aromas and flavours of wild blueberries and blackberries, with tangy, mouth-watering acidity. Pair this wine with a rare, juicy steak and fried onions. Sabrevois Frontenac Noir Cabernet De Montage food pairings: bacon, caramelized onions, mushroom dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2016 14.1% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 85/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pillitteri Estates Winery Canadian Gothic Cabernet Merlot 2012, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 395616 13% XD 750 mL $12.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pillitteri Estates Winery Canadian Gothic Chardonnay 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2018 395624 13% XD 750 mL $12.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Scarlet Red Cabernet Franc 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 387076 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery Unoaked Chardonnay 2013, Lake Erie North Shore, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada 391730 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosehall Run JCR Pinot Noir 2011, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Love this style of Prince Edward County Pinot Noir with its tart cranberry and sour cherry aromas and flavours. This medium-bodied red wine will literally whet your palate and get those juices running in anticipation of a lovely planked salmon, seared tuna or tender cut of veal. Yes please! Drink: 2013 - 2017 326504 12.5% XD 750 mL $39.00 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 2011, Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada: Celebrate life! Wow this is liquid exuberance. Moscato-grape aromas with orange zest and honeysuckle swaying in the summer breeze. Low alcohol, and some sweetness make this a great aperitif or companion to any spicy dish or one with a bit of sweetness like glazed ham, sweet potatoes etc. Food pairings: salmon, lobster, seafood chowder, charcuterie and Dragon's Breath blue cheese. Drink: 2011 - 2013 256289 6.5% S 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Featherstone Winery Rosé 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Hello spring-summer day! Rhubarb-strawberry compote, tinge of sweet raspberry, mostly lovely mouth-watering juiciness. Where are the chicken sandwiches and pate? Lovely ballet slipper pink. Finishes crisp and clean. Rosé food pairings: stuffed peppers, green salads, olives, salty cheese, turkey sandwiches. Drink: 2013 - 2015 117861 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Redstone Winery Cabernet Franc 2010, Lincoln Lakeshore, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A superb cool-climate Cabernet Franc, quite possibly the best I've tasted yet from Ontario. Fleshy ripe black plums depths give way to savoury herbs and cedar smoke. Full-bodied, supple and rich with a satisfying long finish. Yes please! Cabernet Franc food pairings: wood-fired prosciutto & arugula pizza, beef carpaccio with shaved Parmesan, Ossobuco with lemon gremolata. Drink: 2014 - 2019 381244 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Franc 2011, Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: A rich, robust, complex red wine that glows with all the glory of what Canadian Cabernet Franc is capable of. Aromas of blackberry and cassis, not an herbal note in site. Layered complexity for hedonists. Try it with prime rib. Cabernet Franc food pairings: five-spice dusted free-range chicken, sage-infused braised short ribs. Drink: 2014 - 2022 556621 14.5% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château des Charmes Chardonnay Musque 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Light and floral; a pleasant aperitif served well-chilled. The clone of the Chardonnay (809) for this wine was developed by Chateau des Charmes founder Paul Bosc. It produced an aromatic un-oaked white wine. Drink: 2013 - 2016 640516 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 85/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Icewine Vidal 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely honeyed apricot preserves on this dessert wine from Niagara. This producer also makes spectacular Rieslings. Drink: 2014 - 2019 368720 11% S 200 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Château Moncontour Cuvée Prédilection Brut Vouvray Brut 2011, Loire A.C., France: What a delightful sparkling wine from an underrated region of France; the Loire Valley. If you haven't tried Vouvray before, here's your chance. Lemon richness, toasty oak, great refreshment. You can't beat this quality for this price when it comes to bubbly. Works as an aperitif or companion to shellfish. Oysters, yum! Vouvray Brut food pairings: shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 168963 12% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Salmonière Vieilles Vignes Muscadet Sèvre & Maine 2012, Loire A.C., France: This zesty white wine, brought to us by Gilbert Chon Et Ses Fils, was aged sur lie: bottled without filtering or fining the sediment giving the wine a more mouth-filling, creamier texture and taste. One of the most refreshing white wines around is Muscadet. This shows subtle aromas of salty mineral, grapefruit, peach, floral and notes of lees. It is dry and crisp with a medium body on the palate, and its soft citrus fruit flavours lead to a finish that is medium-long, zesty, and minerally. An exuberant wine with fresh, clean notes of lime, lemongrass and herbal refreshment. Perfect as an aperitif or food companion. Did I hear we're having shellfish tonight? Muscadet Sèvre & Maine food pairings: clams steamed in wine and fresh tarragon, light fish, sashimi, rich creamy dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 142380 12.2% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. July 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Croix De Queynac Bordeaux Rosé 2013, Bordeaux A.C., France: Savoury, juicy and dry French rose with lovely, oh so lovely essence of field berries and clementine zesty. Sunshine in your glass. Perfect aperitif. Rosé food pairings: grilled chicken, stuffed peppers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 119529 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaines Ott Château De Selle Coeur De Grain Rosé 2013, Côtes De Provence A.C., France: Yes, they can actually charge $47 for a rose: just watch them! Annoyingly, this is spectacularly great. (Why can't I love the cheaper roses more?) Dried herbs, savoury goodness, bone dry, complex. This is the Dom Perignon of rose from Provence. Drink: 2013 - 2016 74617 13% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 94/100. July 2014. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kuhlmann-Platz Muehlforst Gewürztraminer 2012, Alsace A.C., France: Intense gingered spice candied apricot in this exotic, signature Alsatian Gewurztraminer. Yes!!! Love the aromatics on this wine. If any wine can handle Asian dishes and curries, it's this one. Gewürztraminer food pairings: ginger pork, seafood, papaya salad. Drink: 2013 - 2020 168864 13% M 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mas Des Bressades Les Vignes De Mon Père Cabernet Syrah 2011, Vin De Pays Du Gard, Midi I.G.P., France: Big black, tarry fruit and oak on the nose of this blockbuster red wine. A consistently great producer of robust red wines from southern France. A savoury and deep red with dark red fruit and dried herbs. Mouth-watering and juicy. This is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Syrah grapes that was matured in oak barrels for one year. Some smoke and dark spices on the finish. Try it with prime rib. Cabernet Syrah food pairings: beef. Drink: 2013 - 2017 712174 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ortas L'estellan Rouge 2011, Gigondas, Rhône, A.C., France: Full-bodied and robust with aromas of dark fruit, smoke and cedar underbrush. Perfect for dinner parties or more casual gatherings. Decant 1-2 hours and serve with a juicy steak. Will also do well in the cellar. Drink: 2012 - 2018 328435 15.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaines Du Château De Riquewihr Les Murailles Riesling 2009, Alsace A.C., France: Holy petrol! Love it. Dry peach essence. Perfectly flavourful yet light. Wow. Finishes with the freshness of lemon zest and green apple. Perfect for seafood, shellfish, salads and vegetarian dishes. Riesling food pairings: mildly spiced noodles and veggies, grilled calamari with lemon and oregano. Drink: 2013 - 2018 933069 12% M 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maison Roche de Bellene Bourgogne Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir 2017, Vieilles Vignes, Cotes De Beaune, Burgundy, France Drink: 2020 - 2023 12.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maison Roche de Bellene Vieilles Vignes 2011, Côte Du Nuits-Villages Burgundy A.C., France: This is a bargain for Burgundy, which usually tends to be 2 to 3 times more expensive. Pinot Noir is indeed the heartbreak grape financially to make and to buy. This one offers pleasantly sour cherries and cranberry; lots of mouth-watering acidity for food. This well-priced red Burgundy from a lauded producer offers fresh beetroot, strawberry, cherry and raspberry character. Food pairings: barbecued chicken and beets, mushroom burgers, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2013 - 2018 240473 12.5% XD 750 mL $38.00 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Gachon Cuvée Les Petits Rangas 2010, Montagne St-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C,, France: Fairly smooth already and medium- to full-bodied with pleasant notes of cassis and smoke. This Bordeaux red wine blend leads with the Merlot grape, as do most Right Bank Bordeaux wines. The 2010 vintage was a strong one at all price points, yielding great gems like this one. Decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with rare filet mignon tonight. Food pairings: osso buco, grilled steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2017 280040 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Lagrave-Cissan 2010, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Lots of smoky oak and blackcurrant on the nose and palate of this full-bodied, remarkably well-priced Bordeaux from a great vintage. Try it with a juicy rare steak, but decant for 1-2 hours before you do. Drink: 2014 - 2019 340224 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château De Gourgazaud Réserve 2010, Minervois La Livinière, Midi A.C., France: Château de Gourgazaud offers superb value for the price in this robust red wine from southern France. The estate has 70 hectares of vineyards, of which 40 hectares are designated AC, the appellation control designation. The balance are Vin de Pays d’Oc, and still yield wines of great quality. This is gorgeous wine country to visit, and even better wine to drink. Aromas of black fruit, toasty oak, tar and dark spice. Pleasantly bitter finish. Try it with grilled meats tonight. Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs or wings. Drink: 2014 - 2018 986083 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
Dr. Loosen Dr. L Riesling Sparkling, Deutscher Sekt, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Product Of Germany, Germany: Fans of Dr. L Riesling will lap this bubbly up, literally! It's fresh and crisp with lovely white peach and toasty pear notes. And my goodness, the price: you can't beat it. Is it a typo? Stock up for your weddings and big parties now. Try with fresh steam lobster and a marriage proposal. Riesling Sparkling food pairings: beef, lobster, game birds, pork, cheese, Thai dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2015 296095 12% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Cormòns Pinot Grigio 2012, Isonzo Del Friuli D.O.C., Italy: Clean, crisp and simple with white grapefruit and lime aromas in this zesty white wine. The wine sources its grapes from a grape growing co-operative that has more than 200 small vineyard owners as members, and is the largest wine producer in the Friulian province of Gorizia. Clean, crisp and refreshing at a nice price. Pinot Grigio food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, liver paté, cheese, poultry, quiche. Drink: 2013 - 2015 734038 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. July 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sergio Cerrino Brich Menu Moscato D'asti 2012, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: I love most Moscato d’Astis and every time I try them, I chastise myself for not drinking them more often. They have a light spritz and a touch of sweetness that expresses itself more in citrus ripeness and orange zest rather than in any sort of cloying sweetness. They make wonderful aperitifs and digestifs. This one has lovely notes of clementines, fleshy ripe peach and apricot preserves. Give it a go. Moscato D'asti food pairings: fruit-based desserts, biscotti. Drink: 2014 - 2017 159822 5.5% MS 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Coltibuono Cancelli Di Toscana Sangiovese 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A rustic, robust, ready to drink when you are red wine. Great quaffer that delivers black cherry and cedar smoke aromas and flavours. Full-bodied ... need you ask? Drink: 2013 - 2017 920173 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Cafaggio Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Sour, tart cherry, earth and mushroom in this acidic, full-bodied red wine that also finishes with sour cherry. Drink: 2013 - 2107 945196 14.5% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Antiche Terre Venete Ripasso Valpolicella 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Love that smoky, meaty, sizzling bacon nose! The Antiche Terre was founded in 2000, and in a short time has earned a reputation for respecting the traditions of the Veneto wine region, while injecting some new energy and style into its winemaking. Honkin' big black fruit with great depths of flavour and concentration. A pleasant finish with some notes of tar and smoke. Awesome price! Fire up the grill please! Ripasso Valpolicella food pairings: grilled steaks, gourmet sausages, hamburgers, pasta with chorizo. Drink: 2014 - 2018 178459 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pipoli Aglianico Del Vulture 2011, Basilicata D.O.C., Italy: A Southern Italian wine that punches well above its weight on the price-quality ration scale. This one is loaded with mocha and dark chocolate on the palate from generous oak aging. Full-bodied and smooth. Finishes with dried herbs and freshness. Drink: 2014 - 2018 320507 13.5% D 750 mL $24.15 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Velona Brunello Di Montalcino 2008, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Love it! Tart cherry notes with tarry blackness and a bitter finish, but it's great! Coming into its own, this robust red wine with nuances of dark fruit and smoke makes for a wonderful dinner companion. Lovely balance and fleshiness with lovely black cherries bobbing on a summer wind in the grove and violets swaying at the base of the trees. Of course, those cultivars may not actually exist in nature, but they do in my mind. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled meats, game. Drink: 2014 - 2020 181321 14.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Masi Grandarella 2010, Rosso Delle Venezie, Appaxximento, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: A full-bodied red wine blend featuring aromas of espresso, mocha, dried herbs and some wild tart blackberries. Robust, smooth, rich and deep. Cries out for a hearty meat dish. This wine is part of the Super Venetian trend toward very concentrated wines from the Veneto region of Italy, much like Tuscany has Super Tuscans or Turbo Tuscans. The wine is made from semi-dried grapes: Refosco, Carmenère (both of which aren't permitted under DOC regulations therefore this wine is designated IGT) and local grapes. Think Amarone but with a Venetian flair. Food pairings: rich meat-based or baked pasta dishes, blackened leg of lamb, strong cheese, mushroom risotto with plenty of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Drink: 2014 - 2019 606921 14.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sartori Amarone Della Valpolicella 2010, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: Smoky, meaty with bacon sizzle in this full-throttle Italian red wine. this is truly the benchmark for Valpolicella winemaking and uses those ancient methods of concentrating the wine via the drying the grapes and ripasso. Intense and powerful. Bring it on! Drink: 2015 - 2020 85217 15% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Staete Landt Paladin Pinot Noir 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Deep-rooted cherry bliss, berry ripeness and a cranberry edge just in case you feel too familiar with this wine -- it has a lovely bite. Full-bodied yet not heavy. Beautiful balance. The 2010 vintage offers some cedar smoke on a ling finish. Polished tannins, polished wine polished off quickly. Drink: 2013 - 2019 376731 14% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mount Riley Pinot Noir 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Perfect for planked salmon and grilled seafood on the barbecue! This is a vibrant, delightful pinot noir, especially at this price point! Very aromatic of exotic wild violets and lush cherries. Medium- to full-bodied, silky smooth and mouth-watering. Subtle and superbly crafted. Top me up! Pinot Noir food pairings: barbecue roasted herbed chicken, roast beef, brisket, turkey, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 60137 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lawson's Dry Hills Dry Hills Gewurztraminer 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Gorgeous! Exotic with lychee, rose petal and baking spices. Perfect with Asian and spicy dishes. Looooove it! Previous vintages of this wine won the Gold Medal winner at the prestigious New Zealand Royal Easter Wine Show. Expressive, exuberant, exceptional. Try it with medium and mild curries. Gewurztraminer food pairings: vegetable stir-fry with shrimp and ginger, beef bourguignon, cheese, fish, poultry. Drink: 2012 - 2016 60129 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elephant Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Signature New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. No oak, just glorious green notes of kiwi and chives. Grassy good, pure refreshment! Love the limes and grapefruit. Here’s how to keep your cool when the temperature rises. Try it with salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: hard cheeses, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage. Drink: 2013 - 2016 96644 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Doctors' Forrest Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Classic Kiwi Savvy nose here: herbal yes, but not too grassy. Incredibly mouth-watering and juicy with fresh notes of lime, lemon and white grapefruit. Hard to believe the alcohol level is so low with so much flavour here, but yay! Try this with fresh seafood or shellfish to keep the other doctor away ;) Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: salads, seafood, pasta with cream-based sauce, pizza, guacamole. Drink: 2013 - 2016 317842 9.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Momo Pinot Gris 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This spritely organic wine make my mouth water just smelling it! Lovely white peach and melon with mouth-watering acidity for food. Very refreshing as an aperitif or companion to many dishes from seafood to salads. Classic aromas and flavours here for a cool climate region. Some toasted almond on the finish. Great wine for potluck gatherings and barbecues -- think grilled veggies and portobello mushrooms. Yum! Pinot Gris food pairings: seafood, light pastas, grilled chicken and vegetables, cured meats, green salads. Drink: 2014 - 2017 163535 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sileni Estates Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy-good refreshment and herbal aromas with the distant sound of lawnmowers on the finish. Ah, summer's here and the sippin is easy. Medium-bodied with lots of mouth-watering acidity. Perfect for salads and vegetarian dishes. Finishes with notes of gooseberry, passionfruit and citrus. A backyard party favourite: perfect for watching the kids run through the sprinkler. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: green salads, eggplant-garlic dips, cheese, shellfish, corned beef and cabbage. Drink: 2014 - 2016 662882 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clos Henri Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Herbal but not too much in this Kiwi Savvy. Good grassy, lime lift through the mid-palate and finish. Mouth-watering acidity. Great food wine. Drink: 2013 - 2015 675629 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Oyster Bay Cuvée Rosé Sparkling Wine, New Zealand: A lovely, toasty bubbly at an exceptionally great price! The chardonnay grapes in this blend come from Hawkes Bay region, while pinot noir grapes hail from Marlborough. Lovely persistence of flavours and bubbles. Crisp, clean finish. Stock up now! Rosé Sparkling Wine food pairings: shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 238187 12% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Quinta Da Murta White 2012, Bucelas, Lisboa D.O.C., Portugal: Very soft, hardly any acid in this delicate Portuguese white wine. Soft white peach notes. Nice aperitif. A clean finish wraps up this package nicely. Drink: 2013 - 2015 380279 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 86/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Herdade Grande Gerações Colheita Seleccionada 2010, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal: New World power and vibrancy in the fruit here: big purple and black plums, fleshy and ripe. Tannic grip on the palate needs to be tamed with cellar time or decanting of 2 hours. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2015 - 2019 379883 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
KWV Kwv Merlot 2010, Western Cape, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Incredibly great quality for the money: this wine gets better every year. Rich, full-bodied, smooth and mouth-watering with fleshy ripe black plums. Awesome price for this quality. Great party wine that is matured in new French oak. Try it with hamburgers. Merlot food pairings: beef, cheese, poultry, quesadillas, Tandoori-flavored dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 522219 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2012, Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, South Africa: Spectacular! Rich, concentrated and hedonistic, yet with a nervy edge in this South African Chardonnay. A chardonnay lover's chardonnay. Perfectly balanced between luscious ripe peach and green apple, toasty oak and a nervy seam of acidity for a range of dishes, from roast chicken to seafood. Please bring some the next time you drop by. Highly recommended. Chardonnay food pairings: prawn bisque, chicken breast, frittata, cheese fondue, turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2018 931006 13% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Martín Códax Burgáns Albariño 2012, Rias Baixas D.O., Spain: We don't see a lot of Albariño, that refreshing white wine from northern Portugal, on the liquor store shelves, so here's your chance to try it. This producer is very consistent and has a great reputation for zesty whites. Clean, crisp and fresh with bright lime-lemon aromas and mouth-watering white grapefruit flavours. Great aperitif or food companion. This vibrant white wine hails from the northern region of Spain where the climate maintains the crispness in style. Perfect for a wide range of dishes from fresh seafood to salads. Finishes with green apple and lime. Albariño food pairings: seafood, shellfish, salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 945063 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Finca Constancia 2011, Vino De La Tierra De Castillia, La Mancha, Spain: Savoury and meaty with black fruit and tarry smoke. Pleasantly bitter on the palate and finish. Decant 2 hours and pair with prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2019 376384 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vizcarra Senda Del Oro Roble 2011, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Looking for a delicious, robust organic wine? Here's your answer! This organic wine has just 8 mg/l of free sulphur and is made 100% Tempranillo grapes grown in organic vineyards. The wine was matured 7 months in both French and American oak. Black fruit, smoke, layered depth and a long finish. Great value. Try it with free range chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2017 331249 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Faustino Reserva 2008, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This is how wines age gracefully and to great complexity. Leather, dried herbs and Old World maturity. Full-bodied and smooth. I’m riding into the sunset now. Finishes with vanilla spice, black plum, and cigar box. Great texture on the palate, with many layers of flavour and complexity. This Tempranillo-based blend will pair well with a variety of meat dishes. Food pairings: cloved ham, roast lamb, traditional Spanish tapas, grilled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 22798 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Olabarri Gran Reserva 2005, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Love the mature tertiary aromas coming through on this Rioja red wine: truffles (the fungi kind, not chocolate), violets, old leather, cigar box and dried herbs with dusty earth. Not fruit-forward, but balanced and smooth and full-bodied. Some thyme and vanilla smoke on a long finish. Highly recommended. Food pairings: veal. Drink: 2013 - 2017 329102 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.00 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Faustino Reserva Tempranillo 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain Tempranillo food pairings: cloved ham, roast lamb, traditional Spanish tapas, grilled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 22798 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Faustino Reserva Tempranillo 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain Tempranillo food pairings: cloved ham, roast lamb, traditional Spanish tapas, grilled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 22798 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Faustino Reserva Tempranillo 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain Tempranillo food pairings: cloved ham, roast lamb, traditional Spanish tapas, grilled pork. Drink: 2015 - 2019 22798 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Kendall-Jackson Trace Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Knights Valley, California, United States: A towering Cabernet Sauvignon with a big tannic grip. Needs cellar time. This huge red wine offers signature aromas of blackcurrant, cassis and cedar smoke. Very tannic. After you cellar, decant 2 hours and enjoy with a rare steak. Drink: 2016 - 2022 186841 14.5% XD 750 mL $89.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lafond Pinot Noir 2012, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, California, United States: Love the mouth-watering juiciness upfront: embrace acidity -- it is your friend and makes wine come alive in the glass and dance with food. Loaded with black cherries and smoky oak with a plus texture and full-bodied weight. Very satisfying wine from SRH (Santa Rita Hills). Finishes with dark spice, chocolate mocha and hedonistic happiness. Try it with grilled chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon, grilled lamb with mushrooms and green onions, grilled beef, roast chicken, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2014 - 2019 998666 14.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Richly layered and full-bodied. Delicious with a classic Napa Valley signature for Cabernet Sauvignon. Layers of complexity and richly nuanced flavours of dark fruit, spices and toasty oak. This wine will age well in the cellar, if you have the patience to wait. Try it with lamb. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, prime rib, smoky steaks, lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2020 24190 14.5% XD 750 mL $76.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha, coffee and toasty oak on the nose open up to fleshy black fruit on the palate. Layered complexity and satisfaction. This robust red is a blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% each Petit Verdot and Merlot grapes. Beringer is a benchmark producer in the Napa Valley, all price points and offers a wide range of styles. Try this with filet mignon. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: filet mignon, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled or roasted meats. Drink: 2014 - 2020 91058 14.3% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Decoy Zinfandel 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: Luscious, juicy and generous with rich aromas and flavours of black and purple plums and blueberries. Supple and smooth and full-bodied. Perfect for BBQ meats. Finishes with black raspberry and some pepper. This is a blockbuster wine but it doesn't overwhelm your palate, senses or food. Try it with roast beef. Zinfandel food pairings: char-grilled burgers, ribs, lamb, pizza, turkey dinner, wings. Drink: 2013 - 2017 327502 13.5% D 750 mL $37.95 Score: 93/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Edge Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, North Coast, California, United States: Dark chocolate and toasty oak on the nose are followed by brooding black fruit aromas and seductive dark spices, smoke and dried herbs. Good balance, depth and concentration with a satisfying finish. Try it with grilled pork chops tonight. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers, meaty pasta dishes, hard cheese, steaks, chicken wings, pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 34223 13.5% D 750 mL $38.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
R Collection By Raymond Blend Lot No. 7 2012, California, United States: Full-bodied, juicy and mouth-watering with sweet cherry-blackberry flavours. Luscious layers of dark fruit and berries that finishes long, smoky and satisfying. This wine is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, petite sirah and zinfandel with a few other grapes in small amounts. This is where field blend comes from and it's a traditional method of planting different grape varieties in a vineyard rather than just one. There are notes of blackberries and plums on the finish. Supple and polished. I can taste a grilled hamburger with this wine. Finished with black raspberry and pepper notes. Food pairings: grilled hamburger topped with grilled veggies, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2017 265959 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bonterra Zinfandel 2011, Mendocino County, California, United States: This Californian Zinfandel is made from organic grapes and the winery practises sustainable viticulture, but that's not its main selling point - flavour is! Big, juicy black fruit wrapped lovingly in a warm blanket of toasty oak. This wine would make even cold pizza (topped with free range chicken of course) taste good. Zinfandel food pairings: turkey, pizza, burgers, rack of lamb, roast duck. Drink: 2014 - 2018 530139 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. July 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ironstone Vineyards Merlot 2012, California, United States: Mocha-dark chocolate with fleshy black plum aromas on the nose of this full-bodied Merlot. Delicious and dependable. Don't listen to Miles (from the movie Sideways), try this with burgers. Merlot food pairings: grilled ribs, burgers, cheese, poultry, lamb, grilled sausages. Drink: 2014 - 2017 704353 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cannonball Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, California, United States: Broad strokes of black cherry flavour here in this big Californian Cabernet. Full-bodied and loaded with fleshy black fruit aromas plus some herbal notes. Finishes pleasantly with mocha and oak spice. Good tannin structure and balance. Needs a juicy steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pepper steaks, smoky ribs. Drink: 2014 - 2019 291666 13.8% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. July 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kali Hart Robert Talbott Vineyards Chardonnay 2012, Monterey County, California, United States: Lovely bottled Californian sunshine here! Luscious layers of ripe tree fruit and toffee goodness. A balanced and tasty Chardonnay with green apple and smoke. Round and generous. Try it with chicken dishes. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, cheese, poultry. Drink: 2013 - 2017 46417 14.6% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. July 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart