Argentina
Alamos The Wines Of Catena Torrontés 2013, Salta, Argentina: Torrontes as a grape always delivers a floral profusion on the nose, and wisp vibrant white wine is no exception. Medium-bodied and food-friendly. Such an aromatic and characterful wine. Torrontés is the signature white wine of Argentina. Finishes with a lick of lemon and a wisp of white grapefruit. Torrontés food pairings: Asian dishes, fresh seafood salad, seafood appetizers, smoked turkey sandwiches. Drink: 2013 - 2016 81539 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Finca El Origen Gran Reserva Malbec 2011, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Produced by Viña Santa Carolina, this satisfying and robust Argentine red wine offers black fruit and dark spice flavours. Smooth and ready to drink when you are. Some attractive smoke, vanillin and toasty goodness from oak aging. Finishes with anise and blackberry. Try it with meat lovers' pizza tonight. Malbec food pairings: lamb, spicy sausage, beef, meatloaf, pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2018 65425 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chakana Maipe Reserve Bonarda 2012, 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. Lots of black fruit and mocha here. Pair with coffee-rubbed steak or grilled pork chops. Bonarda food pairings: pulled pork sammies, grilled meats in a black bean sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 361212 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Los Clop Reserva Malbec 2009, Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina: Sweet blackberry liqueur and dark chocolate notes on this full-bodied Argentine red wine made from Malbec grapes. Purple plums on the finish. Malbec food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, duck breast with celeriac purée, pomegranate gastrique and Brussels sprout ragout, tagliatelle alla Bolognese, chicken herb-rubbed roast. Drink: 2014 - 2017 186650 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Chapel Hill Parson's Nose Shiraz 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A black-fruited, tarry Australian red wine with lots of toasty oak and smoke on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and smooth. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets with pepperade and goat cheese, hamburgers, pizza, black bean soup, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 339705 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Nugan Estate Alcira Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Mint blackberry on the nose of this full-bodied, smooth Australian red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, hamburger, braised pork shanks with white beans, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 393686 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dark Side Of The Moon Claymore Wines Shiraz 2012, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Mint and blackberry aromas on the nose, with a laser-like focus and cleanness on the palate: well-structured and balanced, not flabby. Terrific winemaking here. Loaded with dark fruit depths and concentration of flavour. Smart use and integration of oak, with this wine having spent 18 months in barrel. A great wine for both proposals and sealed deals! This full-bodied red wine pairs well with lamb. Shiraz food pairings: grilled radicchio, beef prosciutto & greens, black bean soup, blue cheese, lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2018 72652 15% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kurtz Family Boundary Row Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Savoury and juicy, with robust aromas and flavours of blackberries and black cherries. This is a blend of 45% Grenache, 30% Shiraz, and 25% Mataro grapes, which was matured in French and American oak barrels. Pair with a hearty meat casserole tonight. Grenache Shiraz Mataro food pairings: aged meats and cheeses, venison, herbed roast beef, lamb, hamburgers. Drink: 2012 - 2018 223263 15% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013 - 2018 80234 10% M 750 mL $16.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Featherstone Winery Black Sheep Riesling 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is one of my favourite Niagara Rieslings: delightful every vintage. The 2013 vintage is no exceptional with lovely bright notes of lime blossom, lemon zest and flint. It's also my pick to pair with Canadian creamy cheeses like Little Qualicum Cheeseworks Island Brie, a small producer tucked into the base of Mt. Arrowsmith on Vancouver Island, BC. The wine has the zesty acidity to cut right through the creaminess of the cheese. Also pair with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 80234 10% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kacaba Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: Many people about Cabernet Sauvignon for cheddar, but I love a great Canadian Cabernet Franc. This one has a nose of savoury dried herbs and a touch of bell pepper that often accompanies Cabernet Franc, though not unpleasant at all. Full-bodied and smooth with fleshy black plums and a good finish. I'd pair this wine with Balderson Vintners' Cheddar for Red Wine, which is made with robust red wines in mind. Full disclosure: Balderson is a sponsor of the Canadian Wine Match, but I've been enjoying their cheeses for years. This wine really opens up after 1 hour of decanting. Cabernet Franc food pairings: robust pasta dishes and anything off the barbecue. Drink: 2014 - 2020 272146 12.9% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Vinedo Chadwick Errazuriz 2011, Maipo Valley, Chile Drink: 2016 - 2025 396325 14% XD 750 mL $249.00 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Medalla Real Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2013, Leyda Valley, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Good value in this medium-bodied Chilean Chardonnay from Santa Rita with green apple and toasty oak. The vineyards are planted close to the Pacific Ocean in Chile which moderates both daytime and nighttime temperatures. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, gougère, pork tenderloin, steamed mahi mahi with lime, garlic and chilies. Drink: 2013 - 2016 398503 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Miguel Torres Santa Digna Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Central Valley, Curicó Valley, Chile: Lots of herbal freshness and acidity in this Chilean white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Pair with fresh seafood and salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, Thai green curry fish, fresh oysters on the half shell with lemon and horseradish. Drink: 2014 - 2016 177444 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Crisp, refreshing and lovely: wow. Great value. Pair with salads and seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2016 462614 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile Drink: 2013 - 2017 738393 13.5% D 750 mL $22.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errázuriz Kai Carmenere 2012, Aconcagua Valley, Chile Drink: 2014 - 2021 55863 14.5% XD 750 mL $144.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile 7804304001441 13% D 750 mL $24.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz The Blend White 2012, Casablanca Valley, Chile 608057106357 13% D 750 mL $22.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Casablanca Valley, Chile Drink: 2013 - 2016 462614 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 January 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Casablanca Valley, Chile Drink: 2013 - 2016 462614 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 January 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir 2014, Casablanca Valley, Chile 7804304001441 13% D 750 mL $24.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Falernia Reserva Carmenère 2012, Elqui Valley, Chile: Blackberry and purple plum liqueur richness and concentration on the nose and palate of this robust Chilean red wine. Full-bodied and smooth with terrific depth. This is a very meaty wine, and a terrific one at this price point. It would go beautifully with prime rib, a juicy steak or conversations well past midnight. Carmenère food pairings: prime rib, juicy steak, game, rustic bread, turkey. Drink: 2012 - 2017 269175 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: This Eduardo Chadwick Chilean red wine is highly extracted. Cassis and blackberry liqueur, herbs and blackcurrant aromas on the note. Juicy, full-bodied and mouth-watering. Could use another year or two in the cellar. Decant 2 hours. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef enchiladas, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans. Drink: 2013 - 2018 208859 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Château Blaignan 2010, Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Lots of attractive toasty oak and smoke on the nose of this robust, rustic red wine. This Cabernet blend from Bordeaux is well-priced. It gets a bit thinner on the palate than the nose would lead you to believe but is nonetheless good value. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes, barbecued chicken, char-grilled lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2019 400606 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Haut-Surget 2012, Lalande-De-Pomerol, Bordeaux A..C, France: Lots of mocha and toasty oak on the nose from generous oak aging. Dark fruit flavours emerge on the palate with more vanilla smoke and chocolate notes from the oak. Pair with coffee-rubbed meats. Food pairings: hearty lamb stew with mint. Drink: 2015 - 2019 268680 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château De Monbadon 2010, Castillon, Côtes De Bordeaux A.C., France: An excellent value Bordeaux brought to us by Baron de Montfort. Great structure, balance, depth and finish. Firm grip with the tannins on the palate and big black fruit and toasty oak. Decant 2 hours. Full-bodied yes, and somewhat high alcohol for Bordeaux, but it doesn't taste hot. Superb value. The 2010 vintage was superb for Bordeaux in general as well as for this Cabernet Sauvignon blend in particular. Pair with rare steak. Food pairings: veal, fajitas, roasted eggplant, meat topped pizza. Drink: 2015 - 2019 365882 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J.M. Raffault Les Picasses Chinon Cabernet Franc 2011, Loire A.C., France: Very tart, but pleasantly so with some herbal notes on the id-palate and finish. Sour cherry and cranberry with lots of acidity for roast chicken or turkey. Medium-bodied and supple Old World Cabernet Franc from the heart of the Loire Valley. The vines for this wine are planted between the plateau that rests between the Loire and Vienne Rivers, which creates a concentrated wine with terrific nuances. Cabernet Franc food pairings: Brazilian slow-cooked pork, beef and black bean stew, roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2016 367011 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Fleur De Boüard 2010, Lalande-De-Pomerol, Bordeaux A.C., France: This robust Bordeaux red wine for the 2010 vintage of the La Fleur du Bouard is a blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered. Aromas and flavours of black plum, blackcurrant and tar and smoke. Pleasantly bitter with a tannic grip. Decant 2 hours, and cellar beforehand for several years at least. Pair with rare steak. Food pairings: wine-braised beef, game, turkey with heavy sauces, wild boar, bison chili. Drink: 2015 - 2020 257774 14.5% D 750 mL $52.85 Score: 92/100. January 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Blaignan Blend - Meritage 2015, Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France Blend - Meritage food pairings: hearty meat dishes, barbecued chicken, char-grilled lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2019 400606 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Haut-Monplaisir Malbec 2011, Cahors, Southwest A.C., France: A big, black (friendly) monster of a red wine from southern France. Black fruit and toasty oak with a tarry finish. Needs a big slab of steak beside it. Malbec food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, duck breast with celeriac purée, pomegranate gastrique and Brussels sprout ragout, tagliatelle alla Bolognese, chicken herb-rubbed roast. Drink: 2014 - 2018 673590 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
William Fevre Montmains Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Clean and fresh unoaked Chardonnay from the northern Burgundian region of Chablis. This premier cru (1ER CRU) is a very reputable producer of the genre. Pair with shellfish and fresh seafood or pasta in cream sauces. Chablis food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, gougère, pork tenderloin, steamed mahi mahi with lime, garlic and chilies. Drink: 2013 - 2019 977587 12.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Chatelain Les Vignes De Saint-Laurent-L'abbaye Pouilly Fumé 2013, Loire A.C., France: Sage and lemon zest with a savoury note in this Old World Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. Pair with goat cheese, clams and white meats. Pouilly Fumé food pairings: chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, Thai green curry fish, fresh oysters on the half shell with lemon and horseradish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 958801 12.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chapuy Carte Noire Tradition Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Smoky, toasty, almost oaky, robust bubbly. Great price. Buy this one by the case for your parties. Pair with fresh seafood. Champagne food pairings: pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce, Asian dishes with black bean sauces, pasta with tomato sauce, steamed mahi mahi with lime, garlic and chilies, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2014 - 2017 68304 12.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château De Jurque Fantaisie Jurançon Sec 2012, Southwest A.C., France: Very dry and acidic with aromas and flavours of toasted nuts. Pair with hard cheeses. Food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, linguini with clams and fennel, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 396226 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 85/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ormarine Carte Noire Picpoul De Pinet 2013, Midi A.P., France: Lots of acidity with lemon zest in this southern French white wine from JeanJean. Light-bodied and mouth-watering. Pair with light seafood dishes. Picpoul De Pinet food pairings: pasta with cream sauce, white meats, salads, French onion soup, duck rillettes with apricot purée. Drink: 2013 - 2016 525287 12.5% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 85/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaines Schlumberger Saering Grand Cru Riesling 2010, Alsace A.C., France: Deep core of minerality and savoury character here with classic and attractive petrol and flinty stone. Medium-bodied with nice acidity. Dry and refreshing with a very long finish. Riesling food pairings: grilled chicken with lemongrass stalk, spicy pasta dishes, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate. Drink: 2013 - 2020 627950 13% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Caves Des Vignerons De Buxy Montagny Les Chaniots 1Er Cru Chardonnay 2010, Burgundy, A.C., France: Very balanced and delicious chardonnay with just a touch of oak evident in the toasted almond aromas. Green apple freshness through the mid-palate. Medium-bodied. Perfect with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: veal, salmon dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 159020 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Cattin Brut Crémant d'Alsace, A.C., Alsace, France: Crisp and toasty and fresh French sparkling wine, especially for this great price. Classic and elegant for your large gatherings. Sip as an aperitif or pair with fresh seafood. Crémant D'alsace food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignonne, gougère, pork tenderloin, steamed mahi mahi with lime, garlic and chillies. Drink: 2014 - 2017 281329 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Kellerei St. Magdalena Pinot Grigio 2013, Südtirol, Alto Adige Trentino D.O.C., Italy: Classic northern Italian Pinot Grigio. Fresh, fresh, fresh! Lemon zest, lime and some green apple. Terrific mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied. Great price. Try with pasta and cream sauce. Pair with oysters, clams and mussels. Pinot Grigio food pairings: oysters on the half-shell, pasta in cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, pork burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 249466 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Riondo Castelforte Garganega 2013, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Light aromas of lime blossom, yet dry. Great aperitif or companion to mild curries and lightly spiced dishes. Medium-bodied. The lesser known Veneto Garganega grape is often overshadowed by Pinot Grigio, but is well worth exploring for both taste and value. Lovely crisp lime lift on the mid-palate and finish. Pair with field greens and shellfish. Garganega food pairings: prosciutto and melon. Drink: 2013 - 2016 230656 13% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vicchiomaggio Ripa Delle Mandorle 2013, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Smoky Tuscan red wine with dark tart cherry aromas. Good value for the money. A quaffer (stop analyzing). Drink: 2014 - 2017 677930 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gemma Barolo 2010, Piedmont, Italy: If you love the robust Barolo style, you'll welcome this blockbuster to the table. Towering, tannic and loaded with tar, black fruit, and wild violets. It's classic Barolo. Finishes with wild violet and truffles. Pair with lamb. Drink: 2016 - 2022 285502 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Podere La Vigna Brunello Di Montalcino 2008, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Pure liquid seduction. Tanned leather, violets, cigar smoke and reflection. Love this. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled meats and game. Drink: 2014 - 2022 390807 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. January 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tenuta Rocca Ornati Langhe 2009, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Savoury, meaty, dry and delicious! Dark red fruit, dark spices, smoke and dried herb aromas. A terrific wine for many meaty dishes or pasta with tomato sauce. Great price for such quality. Food pairings: homemade tagliatelle and veal ragú, grilled pork sausages, lamb, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 309369 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
San Remy Monica Di Sardegna 2012, Sardinia D.O.C., Italy: Great big red wine with purple plums and blackberry liqueur: reminds me of Zinfandel on steroids. Some violets here too for a lovely kick. Food pairings: spaghetti and meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2018 395947 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Spy Valley Pinot Noir 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Generous oak with fleshy ripe cherries. Smooth and full-bodied. For those who love power pinots. Extended oak aging makes this a pinot with a turbo boost of testosterone. Pinot Noir food pairings: planked salmon on the grill, roast beef, turkey, pork tenderloin, mushroom and truffle dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 242205 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Middle-Earth Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand: One wine to rule them all, one wine to watch JRR Tolkien's trilogy! Grassy but not too herbal, just enough to get you to Mordor. Pour Gandolph a second glass and listen to his wisdom. It will require that you leave the Shire. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, Thai green curry fish, fresh oysters on the half shell with lemon and horseradish. Drink: 2012 - 2016 391987 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Quinta Das Camélias Reserva 2012, Dão, Portugal: Loaded with purple and black plum aromas on the nose, and blackberry liqueur richness on the palate. Concentrated, intense and full-bodied with a mouth-coating viscosity. Great price. Pair with prime rib. Food pairings: grilled ribs, steak. Drink: 2014 - 2017 305334 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Romania
Monser Feteascã Neagrã 2011, Dealurile Hu_Iului, Moldova I.G., Romania: Here's your Ultimate Bargain Red Wine! Almost full-bodied with juicy black cherry aromas and flavours and just enough smoke from oak. Smooth. Buy a case or two for your large gatherings and parties. Pair with pepperoni pizza. Feteascã Neagrã food pairings: grilled meats, smoked hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2016 315069 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
The Bean Coffee Pinotage 2013, Western Cape, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Totally coffee-espresso on the nose and palate of this pinotage, and unapologetically so. Weirdly wonderful: end your day with the alcoholic version of your morning coffee. Full-bodied and smooth red wine with some black fruit flavours as well. South African is becoming known for its coffee-aroma Pinotage red wines, the coffee, espresso notes come from both the toasting and type of oak barrels used to mature the wines. Try it with gourmet hamburgers or meat lovers' pizza. Pinotage food pairings: coffee-rubbed beef, grilled peppercorn steak, meat topped pizza, quail, gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2016 251165 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Porcupine Ridge Boekenhoutskloof Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Grassy, herbal refreshment with a medium-bodied weight. Stunningly great price. South Africa does so well with Sauvignon Blanc, and it shows in this wine. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Pair with vegetarian dishes, seafood and grilled portobello mushroom. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: grilled calamari, vegetarian dishes, seafood and grilled portobello mushroom, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2014 - 2016 126797 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Duquesa De Valladolid Bodegas Lan Verdejo 2013, Rueda D.O., Spain: Searing, dry and acidic, yet it works with food: seafood, shellfish, salads. Bright, crisp like biting into a lemon or white grapefruit. Verdejo food pairings: lobster salad with Meyer lemon and grilled asparagus. Drink: 2013 - 2016 391649 13% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Macho Man Casa Rojo Monastrell 2016, Jumilla D.O., Spain Monastrell food pairings: veal, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 392993 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Macho Man Casa Rojo Monastrell 2012, Jumilla D.O., Spain: Blackberry liqueur and purple plum jam concentration, depth and sweetness in this "macho wine" dubbed MMM. This wine is made from 100% Monastrell grapes grown in Spain. Monastrell food pairings: veal, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 392993 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Finca Los Alijares Graciano 2009, Vino De La Tierra De Castilla, La Mancha, Spain: Medicinal menthol on the nose dominates then blackberry liqueur notes emerge. Full-bodied and smooth and huge on both weight and alcohol. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: thick stew of potatoes and spicy sausage, pan-seared venison with grilled asparagus and blue cheese-bacon mashed potatoes, grilled lamb steaks and spicy chorizo mash, smoked cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2017 392522 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Alidis 6 Meses En Barrica Tinto 2012, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Sweet chocolate, espresso and coffee on the nose of this full-bodied Spanish red wine from generous oak aging. Very smooth with more coffee notes on the palate. Drink: 2014 - 2018 461335 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tineta Bodegas Ordoñez Tempranillo 2012, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: A vibrant Spanish red wine with black and purple fleshy plums and mouth-awakening acidity. Full-bodied and smooth with lots of layers of pleasure. Tempranillo food pairings: herbed steaks, portobello mushroom, chili, soup, Papas con chorizo. Drink: 2014 - 2018 391565 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Torre De Oña Reserva 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Supple, smooth and full-bodied Spanish red wine but not heavy: very balanced. Aromas of violets, smoke and blackberry. Food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, duck breast with celeriac purée, pomegranate gastrique and Brussels sprout ragout, tagliatelle alla Bolognese, chicken herb-rubbed roast. Drink: 2014 - 2019 397117 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Baron De Ley Varietal Graciano 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Exotic and dark with pencil led, graphite, anise and black plums on the nose and palate of this full-bodied, smooth Spanish red wine made from the country's iconic Graciano grape. And now for something completely different .... Graciano food pairings: thick stew of potatoes and spicy sausage, pan-seared venison with grilled asparagus and blue cheese-bacon mashed potatoes, grilled lamb steaks and spicy chorizo mash, lamb chops, smoked cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 397166 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Ravenswood Vintners Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, California, United States: Ravenswood is known for very full-bodied zinfandels, and this cabernet is also robust, but in a smooth, balanced and mouth-watering way. Packed with blackberry and cassis flavours with some smoke on the finish. Terrific! Ravenswood is one of the famous three R's of California wineries famous for their Zinfandel (Ridge and Rosenblum being the other two), which sometimes overshadows just how well they make Cabernet Sauvignon. Don't blame me if you get hooked on this cab: I warned you. Pair with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued steak, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2018 606632 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ravenswood Vintners Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued steak, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2018 606632 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ravenswood Vintners Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued steak, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2018 606632 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 January 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Geyser Peak Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2013, California, United States: Very pleasing, very balanced Sauvignon Blanc with refreshing notes of lemon, lime, chives and lemongrass. No heavy oak or smoke. Completely, utterly refreshing. The grapes for Geyser Peak’s Sauvignon Blanc grow in cool climate vineyards throughout California. The winery uses only stainless steel tanks for fermentation to preserve fruit freshness. Pair with spinach quiche. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, pan-fried freshwater fish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 340208 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Arrowood Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: A rich and full-bodied Californian chardonnay with lovely layers of ripe peaches and pears, some lemon and lots of vanilla-butter goodness with the oak. This terrific white wine has a satisfyingly long finish and will pair well with roast chicken. The grapes for this Chardonnay come from cool climate vineyards in Sonoma. Each vineyard parcel of grapes is matured separately in French oak barrels, and undergoes a full malolactic fermentation. Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken, salmon, beef bourguignon, shell fish, cheese, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 270694 13.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
First Press Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied and round with attractive aromas and flavours of white peach and some dry pear. Just enough toasty oak wraps up this package nicely. Try it with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: veal, salmon dishes, roast chicken, cheese. Drink: 2012 - 2016 199810 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 88/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Plume Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian cabernet with aromas of blackcurrant, cassis and toasty oak. Decant for 1-2 hours. Supple and complex on the palate. Polished tannins, great depth and layering. Good finish with dark spices and smoke. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled meats, roast beef. Drink: 2014 - 2018 287367 14.6% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. January 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart