Argentina
Trivento Amado Sur Malbec Bonarda Syrah 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: This wine is a blend of 80% Malbec, 10% Bonarda and 10% Syrah grapes that was matured for a year in oak. Black fruit, smoke and tar. This wine needs cellar time and decanting of 2 hours. Pencil led and black fruit on the finish. Drink: 2014 - 2017 37036 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Espiritu De Argentina Classic Bonarda 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied and supple with charred black fruit and toasty oak. This is the lesser-known rd grape varietal of Argentina. Give Bonarda a try with hearty meat dishes. Bonarda food pairings: spicy chicken and ham stew with lots of vegetables, spicy pork sausage. Drink: 2013 - 2016 380451 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kaiken Terroir Series Corte Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: A savoury, dark plum and cedar brush nose on this full-bodied well-priced Argentine red wine blend. This is the winery's terroir series. Pair with chorizo sausages or jambalaya. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: game burgers, beef steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 384305 14.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Decero Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Agrelo, Mendoza, Argentina: Black fruit and a fresh eucalyptus lift on the nose of this robust red wine, with toasty oak and dark spice notes. The palate has a good grip and more satisfying fleshy black fruit flavours. Smoky with a great finish. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this wine were sourced from the estate's Remolinos Vineyard. Pair with spicy ribs or steak fajitas. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pizza, pasta, rare steaks, pork tenderloin, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 195677 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Alicia Paso De Piedra Malbec 2010, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied Malbec with black and purple plum aromas and flavours. Malbec is the flagship red wine of Argentina: distinctive and rich and complex. This wine finished with a pleasant black fruit and toasty oak note. Try it with meat lovers' pizza tonight. Malbec food pairings: herb-roasted lamb, pork tenderloin, cheddar cheese, spaghetti and meat balls. Drink: 2013 - 2017 301457 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
The Contradiction Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2010, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: A savoury, juicy, full-bodied red wine that's a blend of 50% Grenache, 26% Shiraz and 24% Mourvèdre grapes. Loaded with ripe black plums and blackberry aromas and flavours. Drink: 2013 - 2017 377077 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mitolo Savitar Shiraz 2009, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Balanced and elegant with layers of dark fruit and complexity. I love that this is not a fruit bomb: it shows what Australia is capable of in the finesse category. Nice acidity for a variety of dishes. Perfect for dinner parties or as a gift wine. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, cheddar cheese, roast beef. Drink: 2012 - 2016 21017 14.5% D 750 mL $47.45 Score: 93/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elderton Friends Shiraz 2011, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Incredible concentration, depth and power for the price. Big blackberries and blackcurrants in a lovely weave of full-bodied weight and velvet texture. Be the hero of the evening with this robust wonder from the prestigious Barossa region. Liquid opulence. Shiraz food pairings: roasted lamb, grilled steaks, meaty gourmet pizza, black bean soup, blue cheese. Drink: 2012 - 2015 660480 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tanunda Hill Blaxland Vineyards Limited Shiraz 2011, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Black pepper and black plum aromas on the nose of this full-bodied red wine with savoury, meaty notes. This Shiraz is classic Barossa Valley style with great complexity and savoury goodness. This wine was matured for 18 months in new and used French and American oak, with mocha an dark chocolate on this finish as a result. Shiraz food pairings: hamburgers, pizza, barbecued beef, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken, stir-fry lamb north Chinese style. Drink: 2013 - 2017 289983 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Saltram Wine Estate Mamre Brook Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: This Australian treasure was aged for 18 months in oak to create a rich, deep and complex cabernet that has signature blackberry, cassis and just a hint of mint on the nose. Terrific long finish where the smoky note come through in a completely integrated way. Prime rib anyone? Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: blackened beef skewers, grilled steaks in a mushroom sauce, pork tenderloin, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2020 48579 15.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hungerford Hill Chardonnay 2010, Tumbarumba, New South Wales, Australia: Lovely buttery petrol fueled Chardonnay with golden apple and ripe peach. Full-bodied, juicy and smooth. Where's my roast chicken? Drink: 2013 - 2017 397083 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
d'Arenberg D'arry's Original Shiraz Grenache 2010, Mclaren Vale, Australia: This big Australian red wine is savoury, dark and delicious with chary, toasty oak and black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth with loads of satisfaction. Lip-smacking delicious from one of Australia's most respected producers! Try this with hamburgers and all the fixins. Drink: 2012 - 2017 942904 13.9% D 750 mL $17.25 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
St. Hallett Blackwell Shiraz 2010, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Gorgeous hue of dark violet in the glass hints at the intensity of this wine on the palate. Smoky, toasty oak wraps around black, brooding dark fruit aromas. Full-bodied and smooth. Hedonistic mingling of fleshy blackberry and dark spices. Great framework and balance; long finish. Try it with prime rib. Shiraz food pairings: hamburgers, pizza, barbecued beef, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken. Drink: 2012 - 2019 535104 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pirramimma Shiraz 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Very peppery Australian red wine with a black plum mantle and warming shawl of mouth-filling flavour. The superb 2011 vintage was ideal for ripening Shiraz. the grapes were selected from vineyards such as War Horse, Johnson Prolific, Bellevue and Bullrush. Finishes with vanilla bean and black pepper. Shiraz food pairings: grilled back ribs with a rich sauce, marinated steaks, dark chocolate, lamb, salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2018 987784 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Exultet Estates The Blessed Chardonnay 2012, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A seductive Ontario chardonnay with a deep core of minerality and soul. Gorgeously rich hue of golden yellow sparkles in the glass. A heady bouquet of orchard ripe apple, white pear, smoke and honey-spice floods the senses. Layered and mouth-filling on the palate: full-bodied, yes, but balanced and elegant too. Finishes with dusty hopes of another glass (please). Drink: 2014 - 2018 266262 13.1% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Laughing Stock Vineyards Portfolio 2012, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: An over-the-top red wine blend from an MBA graduate (thus the name "Portfolio" and Laughing "Stock") who doesn't know the meaning of restraint. This is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, and Malbec grapes. Pair with over-priced kobe beef. Food pairings: flavourful charcuterie, blue Stilton cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 71464 14.7% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rotary Club 1951 Château Des Charmes Cabernet Merlot 2011, Niagara-On-The-Lake , Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A red wine that's almost full-bodied and smooth. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Cabernet Merlot food pairings: rare roast beef with oven roasted potatoes. Drink: 2012 - 2015 393967 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 85/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rotary Club 1951 Unoaked Chardonnay 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A medium-bodied white wine with mild notes of white melon. Pleasant sipper. Chardonnay food pairings: field greens salad and fresh shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 393959 12% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 85/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Megalomaniac Frank Cabernet Franc 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lots of bell pepper and herbal notes, typical of some Niagara Cabernet Franc wines -- an acquired taste. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2014 - 2017 205021 12.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Clos Jordanne Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard Chardonnay 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Voluptuous, mouth-filling aromas of green apple, toasted almond and happiness! Full-bodied and richly textured. Hazelnut, peach, and some baking spice on the finish. One of Niagara's best Chardonnays that combines richness with cool climate raciness. Beyond words, isn’t it? Try it with roast turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: rich seafood pasta dishes, boiled lobster, grilled pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 33910 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 93/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fielding Estate Winery Unoaked Chardonnay 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: What cool climate unoaked chardonnay should be -- pleasant not boring. Vibrant white and green melon and citrus notes. Pair with fresh seafood. Chardonnay food pairings: barbecued chicken breast. Drink: 2013 - 2016 164491 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Clos Jordanne Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Even in this challenging vintage of 2011, Le Clos Jordanne's Pinot Noir from Le Clos Jordanne Vineyard performs well. The grapes for this wine grow in a warmer part of the vineyard, on the eastern side, and so it has a richer, fleshier style as compared to other leaner, more acidic pinots. Lovely notes of ripe cherry and some judicious oak. The winery uses a partial whole cluster fermentation and some pressing which results in a fleshy style with good structure. Beautifully textured with a long finish. Try it with roast chicken or turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: coq au vin, beef bourguignon, grilled salmon, cassoulet, roasted and braised lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2019 33902 13.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Nk'Mip Cellars Merlot 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied BC Merlot with lots of toasty, charred oak treatment. Black fruit and dark spice with a supple texture. Expressive and succulent. Pair with coffee-rubbed steak. Merlot food pairings: teriyaki pork kabobs, hickory smoked chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2017 626416 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Echeverria Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Central Valley, Chile: A very heavy bottle that should be updated and lightened to reflect environmental concerns in transport and disposal. This is a full-bodied red wine with aromas of blackcurrant and cassis. I expected more after almost spraining my wrist pouring it. Drink: 2013 - 2017 389221 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Maipo Valley, Chile: A savoury and juicy cabernet sauvignon with aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries. A full-bodied red wine that's smooth and imminently gulpable. Dark red in the glass, mouth-filling in the palate. Finishes with smoke and spice. Great with pizza. Terrific for such a bold red wine from Chile's Maipo Valley. Great depth and length in the glass and on the palate. Try it with gourmet hamburgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pizza, pasta, rare steaks, pork tenderloin, hard cheese. Drink: 2010 - 2016 18721 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Miguel Torres Cordillera De Los Andes Chardonnay 2012, Limarí Valley, Chile: Full-bodied, balanced, buttery with white peach and green apple notes. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2017 296624 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
San Pedro 1865 Carmenere 2011, Maule Valley, Chile: Wow, this single vineyard Carmenere rocks! Carmenere is arguably the flagship red wine of Chile. It has it all: concentrated, rich black fruit flavours and depth, yet it's supple and smooth with a long finish. Velvet on the palate, lingering in the mind. This robust red wine finishes with notes of cassis and dried tobacco. Great balance and depth. Try it with a rack of lamb tonight. Highly recommended. Carmenere food pairings: venison, ratatouille, rabbit stew, bison steaks. Drink: 2012 - 2017 249201 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Maison Roche De Bellene Vieilles Vignes Gevrey-Chambertin 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Seductive black cherry nose that opens up to fleshy red cherry, and a mouth-filling satin texture on the palate. Incredibly luscious. Medium-bodied but packed with flavour and character. Pair with holiday turkey for a special treat. Drink: 2013 - 2021 240424 13% XD 750 mL $56.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Hanteillan 2010, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: An amazing bargain for Bordeaux from a spectacular vintage! This baby could use more cellar time and definitely 1-2 hours decanting before you enjoy it. Classic aromas of cassis and blackcurrant with just enough toasty oak. Firm tannic grip on the palate of this full-bodied, balanced red wine blend. Drink: 2015 - 2020 377408 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
DOMAINE DU COLOMBIER Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: A soft Old World unoaked Chardonnay without pronounced acidity. Golden delicious apple and minerality. Fresh. Chablis food pairings: pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce, linguini with clams and fennel, fresh garden salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 390468 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Max Roger Winery Cuvée Les Caillottes Sancerre 2012, Loire A.C., France: Clean, fresh, lemon brightness in this Old World Sauvignon Blanc. Good mouth-watering acidity for fresh seafood, shellfish and salads. Sancerre food pairings: shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2012 - 2016 65573 12.5% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barons De Rothschild Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: A toasty, earthy Champagne with aromas of freshly baked bread and smoke. Fine boned, well textured. Finishes with orange zest and some toast. Pair with shellfish. Drink: 2014 - 2017 263715 12% D 750 mL $67.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pommery Brut Silver Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: A non-vintage sparkling wine from one of Champagne's better-known producers. The underground caves of this winery are worth visiting if you go to the Champagne region. Toasty, crisp and refreshing. 385161 12.5% XD 750 mL $58.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
André Blanck Et Ses Fils Altenburg Gewürztraminer 2013, Alsace A.C., France: Gorgeously rich and concentrated with cinnamon-spiced peach preserves and spicy apple pie aromas. Mouth-filling and viscous. Drink: 2013 - 2019 168906 13.5% MS 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Peynaud 2009, Bordeaux A.C., France: Big black fruit, tarry oak and a firm grip. Well-priced for Bordeaux. Decant 2 hours and pair with brontosaurus burgers: this one is big on the palate. Food pairings: black bean and beef stew, cheese plate. Drink: 2013 - 2016 391979 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaines Schlumberger Kessler Grand Cru Riesling 2009, Alsace A.C., France: Petrol perfect white peach forgiveness. Everyone needs forgiveness: why not find it in a glass? This wine bites then soothes. Drink: 2013 - 2020 61176 13.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Clos De Sixte Lirac 2011, Rhône A.C., France: Beautifully concentrated with a core of hedonistic black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours running through it. Full-bodied, dry, complex and ultimately satisfying. Gutsy and muscular with a fair kick of dark fruit in its heart. Decant for 1 hour. Pair this beauty with lamb or steak. Produced by Alain Jaume & Fils. Food pairings: meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2018 76349 15% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Goubau La Source 2010, Côtes De Bordeaux Castillon, Bordeaux A.C., France: Rustic and robust, this Bordeaux offers good value. Decant 2 hours. The 2010 vintage was such a strong one for the region. Aromas of blackcurrant, cassis and toasty oak. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2015 - 2019 382846 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Croze De Pys Prestige Malbec 2010, Cahors, Midi Southwest A.C., France: A rich, full-bodied red with black fruit and smoke aromas. This wine is a blend of Malbec and Merlot grapes, from a family who has been growing vines since 1773 in this region. This red displays that history with lots of heft, concentration and depth. It finishes with some pepper and smoke. I'd drink it with brisket or prime rib. Malbec food pairings: hamburgers, pizza, Irish stew, hodge podge, spaghetti and meat balls. Drink: 2012 - 2017 681668 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Les Halos De Jupiter 2010, Vacqueyras, Rhône A.C., France: Savoury, toasty and chary and not quite burnt on the toast for the oak. Black, black fruit dipped in tar and a dark mood. Supple, velvet texture, full-bodied (you kidding me?). Mouth-texture, yes! Drink: 2014 - 2018 274324 15% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mommessin Domaine De Champ De Cour 2012, Moulin-À-Vent, Beaujolais A.C., France: Love it! Peppered black cherries and a touch a smoke. Full-bodied for Beaujolais. Smooth and supple and so flavourful. Moulin-a-Vent is known to produce the best Beaujolais, and longest lived. Made from the Gamay grape. This is not nouveau. Food pairings: mushroom burgers, red wine beef stew. Drink: 2013 - 2018 430876 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Brunel De La Gardine Crozes-Hermitage 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Smooth and supple and almost full-bodied with black plums and berries and some smoke. This wine is mostly made form Syrah grapes. Pair with smokehouse ribs and charcuterie. Food pairings: braised pork shoulder in Chianti sauce, slow-roasted lamb shank, beef stew. Drink: 2013 - 2017 339861 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ferraton Père & Fils Samorens 2012, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Cedary with ripe fleshy dark berry aromas. Love this style of Rhone! It’s so interesting and lip-smacking delicious with each sip; you don’t tire of it. It also pairs with many hearty meat dishes. Amazing value and complexity here. Finishes with savoury notes of bacon, dried herbs and cedar forest. Decant for 1-2 hours and enjoy with pepperoni pizza, especially at this phenomenal price. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 168708 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
Freiherr Von Göler Burg Ravensburg Pinot Noir 2011, Qualitätswein Baden, Germany: An oaky black cherry, acidic wonder to pair beautifully with herb-crusted veal tenderloin. Medium to almost full-bodied and ultra-smooth and mouth-watering. Pinot Noir food pairings: spicy sausages, charcuterie tray. Drink: 2013 - 2016 390971 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dr. Loosen Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett 2013, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: Dr. Loosen is dependably great at all price levels when it comes to zesty German white wines based on the iconic grape Riesling. This genius of Germany has fomented (fermented?) a revolution in taste and quality. See for yourself. Drink: 2013 - 2019 927756 8% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Studert-Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese 2012, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: This style of German Riesling is rich and voluptuous, with gorgeous aromas of apricot preserves and honeyed lemons. The sweetness is balanced perfectly with the acidity. Pair with curries and spicy dishes. Riesling Spätlese food pairings: barbecued pork tenderloin, grilled salmon with lemon sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2020 912659 9% M 750 mL $28.95 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Greece
Estate Argyros Santorini Assyrtiko 2013, Santorini P.D.O., Greece: Crisp and clean with no oak. You may not familiar with this Greek white wine or the grape, but give it a try and get out of your white wine rut. Assyrtiko food pairings: salt cod fish cakes with rhubarb relish. Drink: 2013 - 2015 346055 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.50 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Katogi & Strofilia Averoff Xinomavro 2008, Naoussa, Macedonia P.D.O., Greece: Dark spices intermingle with black cherry aromas on the nose of this full-bodied Greek red wine. Robust and smooth with terrific acidity for food. Black raspberry and smoke on the finish. Try this with prime rib tonight. Xinomavro food pairings: hamburger. Drink: 2013 - 2017 249615 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hungary
Zombory Pince 6 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2007, Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary: A luxuriously rich Tokaji with honey-peach jam and apple blossom notes. Viscous, mouth-coating and mouth-filling. This is a dessert wine to make both humans and queen bees happy (as well as queen bee humans). Drink: 2013 - 2020 382606 12% S 500 mL $74.00 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
La Chiara Gavi Di Gavi 2013, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Clean and crisp with lots of refreshing acidity. No apparent oak. Pair with shellfish such as oysters and clams. Food pairings: calamari in a citrus cream sauce, salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 383612 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Travaglini Gattinara 2008, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: If you like Barolo, try this one as it's also made from the Nebbiolo grape. This seductive, robust Italian red wine is still quite tannic with tarry black fruit and violets, so it needs cellar time. Decant 2 hours. Try it with a rack of lamb. Food pairings: beef, mushroom risotto, gorgonzola. Drink: 2014 - 2021 713354 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
San Felice Chianti Classico 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A moderately priced, pleasant Chianti for Italian fare. Black cherry, spice and good acidity in this almost full-bodied red wine. Polished tannins. Made from Sangiovese, Colorina and Pugitello grapes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 282996 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dolianum San Maté Dogliani 2011, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Full-bodied with black fruit, toasty oak and mocha. Nice price for the quality. Pair with brisket. Drink: 2013 - 2017 378729 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Medoro Rosso Del Duca Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2009, Abruzzo D.O.C., Italy: Rustic and robust with cedar brush and black fruit. Pair with a big meat casserole. Drink: 2013 - 2017 357160 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tormaresca Torcicoda Primitivo 2012, Salento, Puglia I.G.T., Italy: Balanced, almost restrained for Primitivo aka the Italian version of Zinfandel. Black plums and blackberries with a smooth, supple texture. Perfect for pizza night. Primitivo food pairings: prepared meats , pasta with ground beef in a tomato sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2017 320929 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Monte del Frá Bardolino 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A terrific wine for the money, and a great one for holiday parties and potluck gatherings. It offers aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe cherries with full-bodied weight and mouth-watering juiciness. Finishes with some spice and black plum. Decant 1 hour. Try it with pepperoni pizza or enjoy on its own. Bardolino food pairings: grilled meats, pepperoni pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2017 134544 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rocca di Castagnoli Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A juicy and savoury Italian red wine from the heart of Tuscany, with full-bodied richness on the palate. Dark berries with a smoky finish. Try it with pasta in a meat sauce tonight. Chianti Classico food pairings: beef, pasta, veal, lamb. Drink: 2012 - 2015 222810 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.25 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Angelo Negro Cascinotta Barbaresco 2010, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Fragrant Barbaresco on the nose, tannic grip on the palate with full-bodied weight. I wish there was more length on the finish but this is still very enjoyable. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2019 268953 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sobrero Ciabot Tanasio Barolo 2009, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Vibrant and alive, though the acidity mid-palate will surprise. Worry not. Give this wine the food it deserves: big pasta or meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2019 286070 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Schola Sarmenti Roccamora Nardo Negroamaro 2006, Nardò, Puglia D.O.C., Italy: Trust me: load up on this robust and smooth smoky red wine for your holiday parties. You'll be a hero. It doesn't get much better than this for the price. Fleshy black fruit with campfire warmth and comfort. Yes please! Drink: 2012 - 2016 379768 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domìni Veneti Vigneti Di Torbe Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Rich and delicious Italian red wine with aromas of dark chocolate, mocha and espresso on the nose and palate. Lots of oak treatment here. Full-bodied, smooth and juicy. Finishes clean and dry with some smoke. Polished tannins, god balance and great finish. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: turkey burgers, salami, pizza, stuffed mushrooms, beef. Drink: 2013 - 2018 303537 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Giuseppe Campagnola Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Great price for a quaffer, spice-black fruit full-bodied, supple, smooth Italian red wine. Party wine for sure, or have a big feed of spaghetti and meatballs, or both. Mocha on the finish. Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore food pairings: chicken herb-rubbed roast, beef stew with fall vegetables. Drink: 2013 - 2017 313486 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Giuseppe Quintarelli Rosso Ca' Del Merlo 2004, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Mocha, dark chocolate aromas with black cherry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and supple. Fleshy dark fruit and spices on this finish. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with steak or lamb. Food pairings: osso buco, baked pasta with herbs and grated Parmigiano, steak. Drink: 2014 - 2023 958595 13.5% XD 750 mL $97.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gaja Sito Moresco 2012, Langhe Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Superbly made. Elegant, balanced with exotic layers of flavour in this full-bodied Italian red wine. Everything comes together without any one element dominating. Long finish. This robust red is a blend of Nebbiolo, Cabernet and Merlot grapes from the Piedmontese DOC region, Langhe. The climate here allows nurtures these grape varieties, which allows true stars like this producer to take their artistry to a new level. Try it with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: mature cheese, rare cuts of meat, risotto with mushrooms. Drink: 2014 - 2020 976043 14% XD 750 mL $94.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, lime-citrus aromas, and still great at this price (which seems to rise every year). 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 and vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, grilled radicchio, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 686675 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Dourosa Quinta De La Rosa 2011, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: A smooth, supple almost full-bodied Portuguese red wine with black fruit aromas. Pair with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 146233 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Pella The Vanilla Chenin Blanc 2012, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: A benign, soft-spoken wine with gentle aromas of white melon. No big acidity or oak or tannin. Nice sipper. Nicer price. Drink: 2013 - 2015 389619 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Savoury and juicy with Old World classic structure but uniquely South African fruit. Lovely craftsmanship. This full-bodied South African red wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (48%) with some Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Great dinner party wine. Balanced oak treatment of 40% new French barrels for 20 months. Try it with grilled pork chops. Food pairings: pizza, lamb, veal cutlets, beef, pork. Drink: 2014 - 2019 707323 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Muriel Gran Reserva 2004, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Texture, texture, texture! Velvet wrapped in satin. Yes! Black fruit, layered, contemplative. Not showy or huge. This wine was matured for 30 months in oak barrels yet the oak doesn't dominate at all. There was another 3 years of aging in the bottle. This wine is ready to be a counselor to other wines such is its maturity and wisdom. Have a seat, pour out your troubles. Drink: 2013 - 2017 984187 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Vendimia Palacios Remondo Tempranillo 2012, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Hauntingly savoury and delicious Spanish red wine from one of the country's best producers. There must be a typo on the price for such quality. Full-bodied and smooth with incredible texture. From the hands of a master: when you see Alvaro Palacios’ name on the label, buy it ... quickly. Try it with grilled chicken. Tempranillo food pairings: chili con carne, lamb ragout, beef, hard cheese, pork. Drink: 2014 - 2018 674564 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Borsao Garnacha 2011, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain: This full-bodied red wine was fermented in stainless steel; half of the wine was matured in small French oak barrels, of which about 40% new, and the remaining half in stainless steel tank. Loaded with mocha and sweet chocolate aromas on the nose that are then flooded with lusciously ripe black fruit on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. Garnacha food pairings: veal, soft cheese, roast pork, lamb, turkey. Drink: 2014 - 2020 273748 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cuatro Rayas Viñedos Centenarios Verdejo 2012, Rueda D.O., Spain: Pretty and soft but not boring. Great aperitif with ripe peach and white melon aromas and flavours. Lovely. Terrific acidity for a wide variety of dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2015 312900 12.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
François Lurton Hermanos Tempranillo 2011, Toro D.O., Spain: This towering big Spanish red needs to be decanted at least an hour, but two is better. It completely transformed in the glass after this amount of time as it almost mute at the beginning. Gorgeous aromas of cedary black fruit support the high alcoholic content. Layered and satisfying. Great price. Drink: 2014 - 2019 372342 15% XD 750 mL $16.15 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rotllán Torra Autor Crianza 2010, Priorat D.O.C.A., Spain: Firm tannic grip on this full-bodied Spanish red wine. This wine was matured for 12 months in American oak barrels as well as fine grain French oak from Allier and Nevers, with another 12 months aging in bottle before release. Drink: 2014 - 2018 383588 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Altanza Reserva 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This full-bodied Spanish red wine is produced by Bodegas Altanza and has achieved the D.O.C.A. quality designation. It's a pleasant, robust sipper with dark red fruit aromas and some dark spices on the finish. Balanced and well-crafted. Try it with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: game meats, tarragon sirloin tips with mushrooms. Drink: 2015 - 2018 208223 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Torres Grans Muralles 2006, Conca De Barberà, Penedès D.O., Spain: Seductive nose of fleshy black plums and mocha smoke. velvet texture on the tongue. Full-bodied and layered. Iconic producer from Spain. Drink: 2013 - 2020 378851 14.5% XD 750 mL $85.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Langa Centenaria Garnacha 2011, Calatayud D.O., Spain: Superb value in this full-bodied Italian red wine for this price point. Coffee and espresso on the nose then some black fruit on the palate. Concentrated, rich and deep with great layers of flavour. Decant for 1-2 hours. Try this with meat lovers' pizza or pasta with a meat sauce. Garnacha food pairings: roasted turkey, game, pork, cannelloni, sausage. Drink: 2013 - 2017 194795 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Francis Ford Coppola Director's Cut Zinfandel 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Supple, full-bodied, yet mellow: the kind of wine you'd sip slowly while watching The Godfather or Dracula. (Yes, the winery owner is that Francis Ford Coppola, the famous movie director.) Dark fruit and a long finish. Finishes with black raspberry and cracked pepper. Signature Dry Creek Zin with that cool climate influence and balance. Pair with beef brisket. Zinfandel food pairings: turkey, pizza, hamburgers, venison, chicken. Drink: 2012 - 2017 203208 14.5% D 750 mL $38.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kunde Family Winery Zinfandel 2012, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: Liquid chocolate but pleasant. Full-bodied and smooth with mouth-watering acidity. Try with grilled pork chops. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled lamb loin with Zinfandel sage morel sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 965921 14.7% D 750 mL $33.05 Score: 88/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rodney Strong Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Full-bodied Californian Cabernet with dark chocolate and black plum aromas on the nose. Supple, though it could take an hour decanting for that extra smoothness on the palate. Blackcurrant and sandalwood smoke notes on the finish. Signature Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of blackcurrant, cassis and toasty. Good tannins lend a grip and the cool climate of the Alexander Valley lends the balance. Will cellar well. Try it with rare filet mignon. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hamburger, grilled chicken, pot roast with wild mushrooms, hard cheese, duck. Drink: 2014 - 2020 382325 14.9% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: Purple and black plum aromas with some blueberry compote on the side. Full-bodied, heart warming and layered on the palate. Very comforting finish. Meat lovers' pizza please! Terrific balance and structure in this Sonoma cabernet. Dark fruit and vanilla spice on the finish. Try it with roast beef. Signature California Cabernet. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: meat stews, pork tenderloin, grilled chicken, prime rib, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2020 671164 14.6% D 750 mL $37.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Macrostie Pinot Noir 2012, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Smooth and full-bodied Californian cool climate Pinot Noir. If you like Belle Glos, give this a try. Aromas of sweet cherry and mocha. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled duck breast with blackcurrant pomegranate sauce, fresh salmon steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 674911 14.2% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir 2011, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: High alcohol here but fleshy ripe strawberries and raspberries can handle it. Full-throttle Pinot Noir from one of California's most iconic producers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 148536 14.9% XD 750 mL $100.95 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cannonball Merlot 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: Lots of mocha and dark chocolate on the nose from generous, but balanced oak aging. Some black fruit underneath and mouth-watering juiciness for a wide range of dishes from steak to grilled pork chops. Make a splash with Cannonball at your next potluck gathering. Merlot food pairings: pork chops, turkey, grilled seafood, beef, coq au vin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 342824 13.8% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Adelsheim Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: A vibrant and exotic Oregon Pinot Noir, with notes of tart cherries and black plums, and terrific mouth-watering acidity for a wide range of dishes from planked salmon to roast turkey. A long finish with rose petal, spice and berry fruits. Winemaker Dave Paige has done a superb job here. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon, duck breast, stuffed veal tenderloin, goat cheese, grilled vegetables. Drink: 2014 - 2019 683821 13% XD 750 mL $57.95 Score: 89/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kenwood Vineyards Pinot Noir 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Sweet cherry fruit and toasty oak. Medium-bodied and smooth. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal tenderloin with mashed potatoes and green beans. Drink: 2013 - 2016 943225 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Crema Chardonnay 2012, Los Carneros, Sonoma County, California, United States: Love the butterscotch bite on entry with this Californian Chardonnay. Cool climate gotcha at its best. Green apple and toffee. Silk and spikes. Roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2018 184929 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Flowers Vineyards And Winery Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Lovely mouth-watering juiciness with green apple brightness and just a kiss of toasty buttery oak. Superb balance. Super food friendly. Drink: 2013 - 2018 215210 13.8% XD 750 mL $64.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
MacMurray Estate Vineyards Chardonnay 2012, Russian River, Sonoma, California, United States: The Vintages catalogue says 2011 but the tasting presented the 2012 bottle for review. Lovely, round and voluptuous Californian Chardonnay, with classic aromas of green apple, peach and just the right amount of toasty oak. Layers of mouth-filling richness, yet the cool climate of Sonoma's Russian River provides superb balance and structure. A Chardonnay lover's Chardonnay. Try it with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: veal, turkey scaloppini. Drink: 2014 - 2018 262063 13.9% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Folie à Deux Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A spectacularly rich and full-bodied Californian Cabernet with aromas of mocha, fleshy blackberry and black plum. Smooth and supple. Pair with meat lovers' pizza or hamburgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2018 186163 13.5% XD 750 mL $36.75 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Vineyards Lytton Springs 2012, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Needs decanting or better yet, more cellar time. Big black fruit and oak. Chary, toasty, smoky. Drink: 2014 - 2019 982413 14.4% D 750 mL $96.00 Score: 90/100. October 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: Savoury, meaty, juicy and mouth-watering. A surprisingly great Californian Zinfandel that borrows some Cab-like majesty, elegance and complexity. Ravenswood is your go-to Zin. Pair with inviting me over to dinner please. Drink: 2013 - 2018 673798 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. October 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart