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Vintages Release April 4, 2015

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Dessert Wine

Rockway Vineyards Late Harvest Vidal 2013, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely and light like liquid soufflé for dessert. Bright aromas of field-fresh daisies, white melon and peach. Perfect for biscotti. Vidal food pairings: spice cake, pastries. Drink: 2014 - 2019 413617 10.5% S 375 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cálem Lágrima White Port, Douro D.O.P., Portugal: This lovely white port has a Cognac nose of clementine and baking spices, without Cognac's high alcohol. Food pairings: crème brûlée, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2014 - 2021 912568 19.5% S 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château La Tour Blanche Sauternes 2011, Sauternes, Bordeaux A.C., France: This gorgeous Bordeaux dessert wine offers notes of apricot, peach preserves and baking spices. Prefect for crème brûlée. Food pairings: fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2015 - 2028 296319 14% S 375 mL $49.85 Score: 94/100. April 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Other Wines/Drinks

Neige Première Ice Cider 2011, Quebec, Canada: Fun! Essence of apple in the glass. A delicious cider of mingled and various types of apples that go into the blend, and finishing with fresh, crisp green apples. Think homemade apple pie with a pleasing and refreshing bite. Pair with fruit cobbler. (Natalie MacLean, nataliemaclean.com, Sept. 2, 2014) 12.5% MS 200 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Stefano Accordini Acinatico Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Although the Vintages Catalogue indicates the 2012 vintage, we tasted the 2011. A smooth, full-bodied and balanced Italian red wine with aromas of dark dry cherry and some spice notes. The 2011 Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore Acinatico finishes with dark fruit and brooding. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 85159 14% XD 750 mL $25.50 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Allegrini Della Torre 2011, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: This full-bodied Italian red wine is a classic blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Sangiovese grapes. Aromas of coffee and espresso nose, with black fruit and smoke on the nose and palate of this robust red. Smooth and mouth-filling on the palate with black fruit and smoke on a long finish. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2020 672931 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quinta Do Portal Frontaria 2009, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Full-bodied, smooth and savoury with black fruit aromas and flavours. This wine was aged in French oak barrels. Perfect for a pepper steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 324533 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Oyster Bay Merlot 2013, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Round, smooth, supple Merlot with enticing aromas and flavours of fleshy black plum and blackberry on the nose and palate. Medium- to almost full-bodied. This would be a great match for grilled pork chops. Merlot food pairings: rare roast beef, coq au vin, lamb chops. Drink: 2013 - 2016 692343 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bodegas Muriel Reserva 2008, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This lovely Spanish red wine is dusty and earthy with great structure, but it's not fruity in the least. Just a faint hint of dried blackberry on this Rioja red wine. Also dried herbs and an almost chalky finish in an attractive way. This full-bodied Spanish red wine is made from all Tempranillo. Finishes with espresso. Drink: 2013 - 2018 276030 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cannonball Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, 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. This robust Californian cabernet would be perfect with strong farmhouse cheeses. Cannonball represents freedom: the child with legs tucked up underneath him as he dives into the water. Lots of mocha, cocoa, cola, and smoke from generous oak aging. - Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pepper steaks, smoky ribs. Drink: 2014 - 2019 291666 13.8% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jackson-Triggs Grand Reserve Merlot 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A big, tannic red wine with tart black currant notes, and lots of mocha and dark chocolate from lavish oak aging. Very firm tannic grip on the palate here with coffee-espresso finish. Merlot food pairings: grilled porterhouse steak, calf’s liver with bacon and onions. Drink: 2014 - 2018 563197 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Brazin Dry Creek Valley (B)Old Vine Zinfandel Zinfandel 2012, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, California, United States: Tart cherries and purple plums with lots of acidity. Some mocha and dark chocolate from oak aging. Pair with hamburgers. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled lamb loin, spaghetti Bolognaise, aged cheddar, grilled duck breast. Drink: 2013 - 2017 202457 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

A to Z Wineworks Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Tart cherries and berries with lots of acidity. This smooth, supple, juicy Oregon Pinot Noir is medium-bodied. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, pasta, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 229781 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ser Lapo Riserva Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Juicy and full-bodied with lots of wild black cherry notes, some smoke and mocha. Savoury and meaty with a long finish. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Chianti Classico food pairings: ravioli, beef stew, pizza, pork chops. Drink: 2012 - 2018 288530 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Les Roches De Ferrand 2010, Fronsac, Bordeaux A.C., France: The high alcohol is on the palate here, though it subsides on the finish. Full-bodied with black charred fruit and lots of toasty oak. Drink: 2015 - 2019 403725 14.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Maison Chanzy Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Silky-satin smooth with balancing vibrant acidity in this medium-bodied French red wine made from the Pinot Noir grape. Loving the low alcohol without giving up taste. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 408153 12% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J.C. Boisset Les Ursulines Bourgogne 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Juicy with lots of bright, mouth-watering acidity. Aromas of tart cherries and small field berries. A little herbal/green but not unpleasant. Food pairings: chicken, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 408310 12.5% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Riscasoli Brolio Chianti Classico 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This respected winery is located between Florence and Siena in the heart of Tuscany. A robust, mouth-watering red wine made from the Chianti region's classic grape Sangiovese. A balanced, medium- to full-bodied red with aromas of tart cherries and raspberries. Pair with pasta in tomato sauce. Chianti Classico food pairings: bucatini with sausage and peas, roast beef, cheesy pizza, stuffed roasted turkey, pasta with tomato sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2018 3962 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mendel Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Tart black fruit with aromas of various dark berries, smoke and cedar. A firm tannic grip on the palate that will smooth out with cellar aging and then decanting 1-2 hours. Full-bodied. This will also do very well in the cellar, but even better in your glass. Malbec food pairings: grilled radicchio, lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2012 - 2017 108225 14.1% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

World's End If Six Was Nine Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Very tannic with bitter black fruit and lots of oak, smoke and tar. Full-bodied. Needs cellar time. Decant 2 hours when you open it and air with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pepper steaks, smoky ribs. Drink: 2016 - 2020 396127 14.9% XD 750 mL $72.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mayschoss 140 Jahre Jubiläumswein Trocken Pinot Noir 2013, Qualitätswein Ahr, Germany: Sweet cherry-berry, fleshy ripe fruit on the nose and palate with mouth-watering acidity. Lovely for roast chicken. Jubilant! Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 409649 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Diemersfontein Pinotage 2013, Wellington W.O., South Africa: Big and oaky with lots of mocha and espresso, but I like it! It’s warm and fleshy and generous like a pair of jeans that fits just right. Aromas of ripe blackberries and voluptuous plums. So smooth. Top me up! Diemersfontein Pinotage is part of he cult-coffee style wines all the rage. They are the toast of a gathering each year in Wellington, Western Cape, with the Pinotage On Tap festival. Pair with coffee-rubbed steak. Pinotage food pairings: coffee-rubbed beef, meat topped pizza, blackened lamb burgers, quail, smoked cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 956409 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zenato Valpolicella Superiore 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Full-bodied, juicy and tasty with attractive dark red berries and cedar smoke. Perfect for so many dishes with robust flavours. Great value in this robust Italian red wine from the Valpolicella region. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Pair with pastas in meat sauce or sausages. Valpolicella Superiore food pairings: pasta in a thick tomato sauce, meat lasagna, sausage and cheesy pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 995704 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Fontenelles Cuvée Renaissance 2011, Corbières, Midi A.C., France: A full-bodied red wine featuring fleshy ripe black cherry aromas on the nose wrapped in mocha and dark chocolate. Smooth. Previous vintages of this wine have won the Gold Medal at the Concours des Grands Vins du Languedoc-Roussillon. There are attractive notes of spice and coffee on this finish. This wine is a blend of 55% Syrah along with Grenache, Carignan and Mourvèdre grapes from old vines. Pair with a pepper steak. Food pairings: braised meat dishes, blackened peppercorn steaks, char-grilled burgers. Drink: 2012 - 2017 148692 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zuccardi Zeta 2011, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied, supple and smooth Argentine red wine blend. Zuccardi consistently over-delivers on the taste-price ratio, and this wine is no exception. Pair with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2014 - 2018 163725 15.1% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pillar Box Reserve Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: This blockbuster Australian red wine is full-bodied, meaty, savoury and mouth-watering. Black fruit and tarry notes with warm toasty oak aromas and flavours. Delicious. About 30% of the wine is aged in 90% French and 10% American oak barrels for 1 year. Cries out for a juicy rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin, strong cheeses, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2013 - 2018 199745 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vitanza Riserva Brunello Di Montalcino 2007, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Velvet mouth-feel and texture on the full-throttle Italian red wine. Firm tannic grip, layers of concentrated black fruit and tar and smoke. Decant 27 hours (okay, 2). Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2015 - 2022 11673 14.5% XD 750 mL $89.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luigi Bosca De Sangre 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: A tannic red wine with tarry black fruit and toasty oak. Full-bodied and savoury. Needs cellar time. Then when you open it decant 2 hours and enjoy with rare filet mignon. Drink: 2015 - 2019 261933 14.1% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tscharke Marananga Gnadenfrei Shiraz 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Fleshy ripe blackberry, dark plum and some mint on the nose and palate of this full-bodied Australian red wine made from Shiraz grapes. Shiraz food pairings: grilled meats and vegetables, pizza, barbecued beef, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 303370 15% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Finca Villacreces Pruno 2012, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Full-bodied with dark black fruit, dark cherry liqueur, kirsch and toasty oak with dried herbs on the finish. Nicely balanced. Villacreces winery is located next to the famous Vega Sicilia estate. Finishes with woodsmoke and dark spices. Pair with prime rib. Food pairings: rare steak, beef braised in red wine. Drink: 2013 - 2018 312140 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Classic Californian Cabernet Sauvignon with cassis, tart black currant and toasty oak with cedar smoke. Full-bodied with a tannic grip. Needs cellar time especially in this magnum size. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, pepper steaks, smoky ribs. Drink: 2015 - 2019 331579 13.9% XD 1500 mL $280.00 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Donatoni Massenà Appassimento 2011, Rosso Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Chocolate dipped black cherries are the prominent aromas and flavours in this robust Italian red wine. Fairly smooth. Pair with hearty meat dishes, especially caramelized meats with a touch of sweetness. Drink: 2014 - 2019 332403 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Masperla 2009, Priorat D.O.C.A., Spain: Dry and full-bodied with a firm tannic grip. Not fruity: think tanned leather, earth, dust and toasty oak. Drink: 2015 - 2018 385732 14.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Agriverde Piane Di Maggio Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2013, Abruzzo D.O.C., Italy: Smooth, supple and full-bodied with generous fleshy black plums and berries. Perfect for roasted meats. Montepulciano D'abruzzo food pairings: pasta with bolognese sauce, rabbit stew, roast chicken with olives. Drink: 2014 - 2018 394999 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Punta De Flechas Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Juicy and supple with good acidity for hearty meat dishes and tangy sauces. Full-bodied and mouth-filling. A generously flavoured wine with fleshy black plums and blackberries. Malbec food pairings: grilled radicchio, lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2019 399402 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Queyron Lartigue 2012, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: Balanced and well-structured with classic Bordeaux aromas of cassis, blackcurrant and toasty oak and mocha. Pair with duck, wild game, grilled pork or hard cheeses. OT Drink: 2015 - 2021 404996 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Pitray 2010, Castillon Côtes De Bordeaux A.C., France: A big-boned French red wine with a firm tannic grip so it needs cellar time but this baby is hugely delicious! When you (finally) open it, decant 2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Highly recommended. Drink: 2015 - 2019 405688 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De La Madrière Vieilles Vignes Fleurie 2011, Beaujolais A.C., France: Tart cherry and some herbal notes on this smooth, medium-bodied, mouth-watering French red wine made from Beaujolais' classic Gamay grape. Lots of juicy acidity for food such as planked salmon and roast chicken. Drink: 2012 - 2017 405779 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Collosorbo Brunello Di Montalcino 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Youthful, vibrant Brunello despite its age. Mouth-watering and some tannic grip and heat from the alcohol. Attractive aromas of black tart cherry, violets, smoke and earth. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2015 - 2020 408492 14.5% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Lodi, California, United States: This full-bodied red wine is classic California Cabernet at a great price! Balanced and tasty with lovely dark fruit and just enough oak. Enticing aromas of cassis, blackberry and vanilla smoke. Supple, smooth and full-bodied. Mocha and dark chocolate on the finish. Perfect for a juicy steak this evening. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued chicken, spare ribs in a sweet-and smoky sauce, pork, hodge podge, salad. Drink: 2013 - 2018 537597 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bouchard Pere & Fils Gevrey-Chambertin 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Beautifully tart black cherries on the nose and palate with a satin seductive texture. Medium-bodied with layers of complexity and a long finish. Enjoy it with planked salmon or roast turkey tonight. Dried herbs and violets on the nose with polished tannins on the palate. Great length and bouquet. Pair with duck comfit. Food pairings: planked salmon, roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2019 661330 13.5% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Isole e Olena Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Fleshy cherry-berry aromas and flavours with the warmth of relatively high alcohol. Smooth, supple, full-bodied and delicious. Chianti Classico food pairings: ravioli, beef stew, pizza, pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2019 704346 14.5% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kenwood Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: Very pleasant and medium-bodied Californian Cabernet, with cedar and cassis aromas and flavours. Concentrated and balanced with a satisfyingly long finish. Great for entertaining and dinner parties. Pair with a hanger steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: autumn hodge-podge, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 468157 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Lackey Kilikanoon Shiraz 2013, South Australia, Australia: This blockbuster Australian red wine is big and bold with tarry black fruit and lots of toasty oak. Black pepper finish. Pair with grilled meats. Despite being a heavyweight, this wine is also balanced and offers great layering of flavour and complexity. Polished tannins and a velvet mouth-feel. Shiraz food pairings: spiced beef dishes, spicy ribs. Drink: 2014 - 2019 5199 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Marsalette 2011, Bordeaux A.C., France: Extremely seductive: liquid lingerie. Aromas of black fleshy plums, voluptuous mouth-feel and a satin smooth slithering finish. Food pairings: beef souvlaki, lamb chops. Drink: 2016 - 2024 298703 13.5% XD 750 mL $39.85 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Bortoli Wines - Yarra Valley Gulf Station Pinot Noir 2013, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: A gorgeous, silky pinot noir with layers of fleshy black cherries and a satin-rich texture. The grapes for this wine come from the Brookland Vineyard in Australia's Yarra Valley and provide great balance of fruit ripeness and some zingy acidity. Finishes with great vibrancy and refreshment. This balanced red wine shows attractive intensity in the glass. Try this vibrant red wine with cheese pizza. Excellent value. Highly recommended. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, pasta, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2019 15511 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Calera Ryan Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011, Central Coast, California, United States: Lovely black cherry aromas and flavours, rich in flavour complexity and yet this wine remains medium-bodied and smooth and supple. The alcohol is high yet the wine doesn't smell or taste hot: that's the definition of balance. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, pasta, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 58966 14.5% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alain Jaume & Fils Clos De Sixte Lirac 2012, 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. Produced by Alain Jaume & Fils. Pair this beauty with lamb or steak. Food pairings: meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2018 76349 14.5% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fuligni Brunello Di Montalcino 2008, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Full-bodied, towering, tannic and black as night. This has at least a decade ahead of it, why rush the matter? Supple and a velvet mouth-filling texture. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2016 - 2024 245225 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dandelion Vineyards Lionheart Of The Barossa Mclaren Vale Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This full-bodied red wine has lip-smacking delicious aromas and flavours of black and purple fruit. Smooth and supple. Love the fact that this big shiraz is not filtered, giving us the full-on flavour experience. The grapes for this robust red wine come from vines 100 years old. The wine is open-fermented with wild yeast, then aged 18 months in French oak barrels, and is not fined nor filtered. This robust Australian Shiraz sources grapes from heirloom vineyards. Try this with lamb and rosemary. Shiraz food pairings: grilled meats and vegetables, pizza, barbecued beef, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2018 358127 14.5% XD 375 mL $11.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Carmen Wines Gran Reserva Carmenère 2012, Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile: This classic Chilean red wine is savoury, dark and complex with a chewy, full-bodied mid-palate. Layers of black fruit with a long finish. The Carmenere grapes are sourced from the El Peñasco Vineyard. Superbly crafted for this price. Great structure and persistence of flavours on the finish. Terrific value. The 2012 vintage of the Carmen Gran Reserva is made from mostly Carmenère grapes, and the wine is matured in French oak for 10 months. Finishes with dark spices and vanilla smoke. Pair with roast beef. Carmenère food pairings: lamb, pasta, venison, char-grilled burgers, tamarind-marinated steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2018 439166 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2013, Contra Costa County, California, United States: Cline's Zinfandel grapes are sourced from dry-farmed vines planted more than 100 years ago, thus deserving the name Ancient Vines. The depth and concentration of that aging vine wisdom shows in the glass. Notes of blackberry and toasty, black fruit, tar, smoke and toasty oak. Full-bodied. Perfect for BBQ meats and a campfire. This is a truly mouth-filling wine. Big, long finish like a Broadway number... it's a dazzling kick-line for the senses. Warm, sunny days and cool nights along the San Joaquin and Sacramento Rivers provide unique growing conditions to produce robust, intense red wines. Zinfandel food pairings: hearty meat meals, pasta, aged cheddar, pulled pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 719211 15% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Syrah 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: This estate bottled BC Syrah is beautifully balanced, rich and mouth-watering with luscious aromas and flavours of black fruit, pepper and some mocha from oak aging on the long finish. Classic! Velvet texture with a satin tickle finish for your senses. Syrah food pairings: barbecued chicken, beef stew, lamb cutlets, mushroom pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2019 73072 14% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 93/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut Selve Réserve 2010, Graves, Bordeaux A.C., France: The Graves region of southern Bordeaux tends to produce the biggest red wines in the Bordeaux region. This is no exceptional. The difference here is a gorgeous balance, layered complexity and supple enticing aromas of fleshy black fruit and toasty oak. This wine has remarkable intensity and concentration for just 13.5% alcohol -- love it! Drink: 2017 - 2022 235424 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 93/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pieve Di Spaltenna Chianti Classico 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A full-bodied Italian red wine from the heart of Tuscany made from Sangiovese grapes. Pair with pasta in a tomato meat sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 395137 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Grand Corbin Manuel 2009, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: From the overlooked but strong 2009 vintage (2010 stole the limelight), this Grand Cru Bordeaux blend of Merlot and Cabernet grapes from the Right Bank region of St. Emillion is a solid performer and value. Food pairings: portobello mushroom, chili, lamb chops, pan-seared venison, grilled lamb steaks. Drink: 2015 - 2020 403907 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Le Bertarole Podere Cariano Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2009, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: This full-bodied Italian red wine is purple-built for pleasure. Aromas and flavours of liquid black cherry rivers of hedonism. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: polenta dishes, venison, beef daube, pasta with tomato sauce, leg of lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2022 403840 15.5% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. April 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Drappier Brut Rosé Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: A lovely rose Champagne with notes of fresh field berries and toast. Pair with planked salmon. Champagne food pairings: caviar, live turtle, quail, lobster thermidore. Drink: 2014 - 2018 173146 12% D 750 mL $52.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Thorn-Clarke Brut Reserve, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Lemon green apple brightness in this terrific Australian sparkling wine. Perfect for fried chicken and potato chips. Excellent price. Food pairings: calamari or other seafood in a citrus cream sauce, salad. Drink: 2014 - 2017 280925 12.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Flat Rock Riesling 2013, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The Vintages Catalogue says 2014 but we tasted the 2013 vintage. Green apple and white pear. Love it. Building an inukskuk is now a ritual at the end of harvest for this winery: lifting the heavy stones requires a team effort. Pair with roast turkey and fun. Riesling food pairings: herb rubbed chicken, seafood, shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2019 43281 11% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Horse Valley Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2013, Danubian Plain, Bulgaria: A pleasant, easy-drinking almost full-bodied Chardonnay with green apple and some oak. Match with veal. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 398222 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coyote's Run Estate Winery Red Paw Vineyard Pinot Gris 2013, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A refreshing Niagara white wine made from the Pinot Gris grape, with notes of grapefruit. Clean and crisp. Try this is you like Pinot Grigio as it has more heft. Pair with fresh seafood. Pinot Gris food pairings: linguine with shrimp and lemon oil, Caprese salad, grilled chicken breast, frittata, basil pesto. Drink: 2013 - 2017 116582 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gehringer Brothers Private Reserve Pinot Gris 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A very pleasant sipper with mouth-watering aromas of white peach and melon. Clean and crisp, no heavy oak. Pair with shellfish. Pinot Gris food pairings: grilled calamari, pork tenderloin, roast turkey , pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2016 347203 13.2% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Havens Reserve Stonehedge Chardonnay 2013, Oakville, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with a very viscous, voluptuous mouth-feel. High alcohol at 15.1% though it doesn't taste hot. Moderate buttery notes and some pear notes. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 396259 15.1% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Famille Excellor Terre De Vignerons Sauvignon 2012, Bordeaux A.P., France: Nettle, gooseberry and green herbs on this nose of this Bordeaux white wine blend. Pair with halibut in a lemon sauce. Sauvignon food pairings: planked salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2017 403915 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zenato Lugana San Benedetto 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Attractive notes of white pear, melon and lime on the nose of this crisp white wine. Medium-bodied with good balancing acidity for seafood and shellfish. Food pairings: seafood, shellfish, chicken, pasta dishes with olive oil or light cream sauces. Drink: 2013 - 2015 707158 13% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 87/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lammershoek Roulette Blanc 2011, Swartland W.O., South Africa: This wine is a blend of Chenin Blanc (50%) along with Viognier, Chardonnay and Clairette grapes. Lovely notes of white flowers, lime and lemongrass. Full-bodied and packed with flavour. Highly recommended. Pair with veal. Food pairings: salad, pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2017 225458 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Eidosela Albariño 2013, Rias Baixas D.O., Spain: Crisp and clean and refreshing. This does have mouth-watering acidity but it's not the searing attack of acidity that you find in some wines from this region. Lovely as an aperitif or companion to fresh seafood. Albariño food pairings: linguine with crab meat. Drink: 2013 - 2017 336271 13% XD 750 mL $15.75 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ca' Momi Chardonnay 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Round and generous with balancing acidity. Green apple, pear and lime. Pair with butternut squash. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 361972 13.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cdv Brazão Colheita Seleccionada Arinto 2013, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: Crisp and clean with lime zest and white grapefruit aromas and flavours. Mouth-watering acidity for seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 405217 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean Geiler Réserve Particulière Riesling 2013, Alsace, A.C., France: Dry and acidic with mouth-watering white grapefruit and lime notes. Perfect for shellfish. Food pairings: stir fry pork, lobster with lemon butter. Drink: 2013 - 2018 408237 11.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cousiño Macul Antiguas Reservas Chardonnay 2013, Maipo Valley, Chile: Great value for this full-bodied, toasty Chilean Chardonnay. In 1969, the Cousiño-Macul winery made the first Antiguas Reservas Chardonnay, a trademarked designation reserved for the producer's best Chardonnay from the vintage. A small part of this white wine was matured for 7 months in small French oak barrels, and an even smaller amount was put through a malolactic fermentation to soften some of the acidity. Pair with veal chops. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, prawns, baked salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2016 730044 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Garamvári Szolobirt Irsai Olivér 2013, Balatonlellei P.D.O., Hungary: Dry white floral notes: perfect aperitif or seafood companion when you are bored out of your mind with Pinot Grigio. Think aromatics similar to Muscat and Gewürztraminer. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2017 12070 11.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Estate Winery Laura's White 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A floral, aromatic pretty Niagara white wine blend. White floral, honey blossom and red apple notes. Pair with Dover sole. Food pairings: fresh pan fried fish, turkey breast, garden salads. Drink: 2013 - 2017 121764 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Bonnard Sancerre 2013, Loire A.C., France: This is vibrant, zesty white wine blends the best of Old World Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc with the vibrancy of New World New Zealand: lime and mineral, cut grass and a hint of gooseberry. Fresh and dry with a crisp, refreshing finish. A balanced and refreshing sauvignon blanc that’s not overly herbal or oaked. A lovely balanced approach with tasty notes of lime, green apple and chives. Try it with shellfish. Sancerre food pairings: grilled prawns, poached salmon, roasted herbed chicken, goat cheese-stuffed roasted red peppers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 140525 13% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fielding Estate Winery Viognier 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant, exotic and classic Viognier with Niagara (and Fielding's) distinct signature. Robust and flavourful, floral yet there's a backbone. Finishes with spice-dusted white peach. Pair with spice-dusted roast chicken. Viognier food pairings: roast pork, fresh white fish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 142323 13% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Vincent Sauvestre Bourgogne 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Fresh green apple and lime notes with bracing acidity on this Old World Chardonnay. Pair with roasted chicken. Food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 365056 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Livia Sarba 2013, Cotesti D.O.C.-C.M.D., Romania: If you love Viognier, give this a try. Lovely floral aromatics and apricot-peach ripeness. Pair with mild curries. Drink: 2013 - 2017 396424 13.3% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Krauthaker Grasevina 2013, Kutjevo, Slavonija Continental, Croatia: Lovely freshness and apricot blossom, lime zest, green apple and peach. Great aperitif or companion to seafood. Grasevina food pairings: pan fried fresh fish with an herbal coating. Drink: 2013 - 2017 398909 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Long-Depaquit Les Vaillons Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Lemon and lime zest with intense minerality and acidity in this northern Burgundian Chardonnay. Pair with chicken in a lemon sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 19364 13% XD 750 mL $77.00 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-throttle Californian Chardonnay from the heart of Napa Valley. This is such a well-known (and respected) winery. Aromas of toasty oak, pear and smoke. There's no secondary (malolactic) fermentation to preserve the fresh acidity which is nicely balancing. Primary fermentation took place in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels to lend creaminess. Only about 15% new French oak, the rest is second use to not add too much oak flavour. Pair with game meats and fowl. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2014 - 2018 361949 14.5% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Jean Collet & Fils Montmains Chablis 2011, Burgundy A.C., France: Fresh green apple notes a steely purity of fruit. Lots of acidity. Pair with lemon or cream sauces. Chablis food pairings: shellfish, seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2018 405704 12.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 90/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Crema Chardonnay 2013, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied, well-rounded, buttery wine with lovely balancing acidity and citrus fruit notes. Ideal for roast chicken or seafood with cream sauces, as well as lobster in butter. The Chardonnay grapes for this Californian white wine are a regional blend from vineyards in the Russian River valley. Finishes with nuances of fresh golden apple, pear and crème brûlée. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 67231 14.5% D 750 mL $54.95 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Forrest Estate The Doctors' Sauvignon Blanc 2013, 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 ;) All of the Sauvignon Blanc grapes that went into this New Zealand white wine were grown in vineyards with excellent drainage along the Wairau River. where gravel soils dominate. New Zealand is a cool climate country, but this particular region tends to be even cooler on average so the grapes tend to ripen later than other regions and develop more complex flavours as a results. Pair with fresh halibut or sole. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: salads, seafood, pasta with cream-based sauce, pizza, guacamole. Drink: 2013 - 2016 317842 9.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Pegase Hommage Mitsuko's Vineyard Chardonnay 2010, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United States: Ripe tropical tree fruit, guava, passionfruit and butterscotch from oak aging. Robust and delicious for full-on Chardonnay lovers. Pair with veal. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 408385 14.5% XD 750 mL $75.00 Score: 91/100. April 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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