Dessert Wine
Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese 2013, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: Sublime German white wine made from classic Riesling grapes! Lime vibrancy delivered on a bed of honeysuckle that's not cloyingly sweet. Perfect for spicy dishes and curries. Riesling Spätlese food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream.. Drink: 2015 - 2022 197186 8.5% S 750 mL $30.95 Score: 94/100. November 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese 2013, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Sweet with ripe apricot and honeysuckle notes. Light-bodied and aromatic. The 2013 vintage of the Reichsgraf Von Kesselstatt Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese is intensely flavoured with a delicious core of vibrant lime acidity and deep minerality. Great with very spicy and hot dishes. Riesling Spätlese food pairings: blue-veined cheeses, spicy sushi.. Drink: 2015 - 2020 313502 8.5% MS 750 mL $49.00 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barão De Vilar Vintage Port 2011, Douro D.O.P., Portugal: A dark, concentrated Portuguese dessert wine; a classic vintage-dated port from the 2011 vintage. Aromas and flavours of blackberry jam, cassis and black plum. Food pairings: pecan pie, pavlova, bread pudding, chocolate mousse.. Drink: 2016 - 2022 428466 20% S 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
Wynns Coonawarra Estate Shiraz 2012, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Savoury black fruit with a satisfying meaty note on the mid-palate. Cassis and blackberry tickle the senses and lead into a long smoky finish. Such great finesse and elegance in a wine known for being all upfront with fruit. Sample and see that winemaker Sue Hodder has a special kind of genius when it comes to cool-climate Australian red wines. Drink: 2013 - 2017 433060 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Penfolds Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, South Australia, Australia: A hallway breeze of minty cool rushes out of the glass, then you open the door to fleshy black fruit on the palate and a lovely long finish. Full-bodied, smooth. This is a flagship wine for Australia, from a master producer. Great complexity, balance, structure and depth. It will do well in the cellar, but I challenge you to wait as it's terrific now! Decant 1-2 hours. Try it tonight with rare filet mignon. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: filet mignon, pork tenderloin, pizza, pasta, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2021 414987 14% XD 750 mL $109.00 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michael-David Winery 6th Sense Syrah 2012, Lodi, California, United States: Loaded with dark chocolate, charred oak, espresso, coffee dark roast from very generous oak aging. Some black fruit underneath. Full-bodied and smooth. Sweet black charred finish. High alcohol at 15%. Syrah food pairings: spicy beef dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 149756 15% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Milos Vinifera Plavac Mali 2010, Peljesac Peninsula, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia: Peppery with black fruit aromas and a smooth, seductive, full-bodied texture. There's some rust flavours on this wine that to me indicates drink this year as it's turning the corner maturity-wise. Lots of acidity. A great Croatian red wine for BBQs and potluck gatherings. This robust red wine from the Croatian Dalmatian Coast is related to the Zinfandel grape according to vine genetic studies. Big, delicious and bursting with brambleberry, mulberry, and plums. Try it with meat lovers' pizza too ... tonight! Plavac Mali food pairings: grilled chicken with tomato and olives, cheesy pizza, roasted venison. Drink: 2012 - 2015 261636 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 87/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Inniskillin Montague Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A beautiful Niagara Pinot Noir with great finesse and length. Cherry, but not too berry, with nuances of earth and smoke. Medium-bodied and satin smooth. A lovely expression of Niagara elegance. Pair with quail. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, avocado and papaya salad, grilled radicchio, basil pesto, frittata. Drink: 2013 - 2018 997353 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quinta Dos Carvalhais Colheita Vinho Tinto 2011, Dão D.A.O., Portugal: A full-bodied Portuguese red wine with aromas of black fruit, tar and smoke produced by Sogrape Vinhos. Toasty oak but not too much. Finishes with prune, blackberry, mocha and dried tobacco leaves. This robust red wine blend of mostly the native Touriga Nacional grape. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with a rare steak. This wood-aged Portuguese red wine is only produced in great years. Aromas of mulberry and blackcurrant on the nose and palate. Vanilla smoke from oak barrel aging. Tinto food pairings: meat stews, barbecued ribs.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 13474 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Marqués De Casa Concha Syrah 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: A gorgeously rich Chilean red wine with aromas of coffee, smoke, fleshy black plum and dark spice. Layered, textured and satisfying. The 2012 was a warm one and a strong one for the region and it shows in the glass. Pair with grilled meats. Syrah food pairings: game meats, rare roast beef, spice-braised lamb, cheddar.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 19042 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Cantenac 2010, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: A dark, smoky, full-bodied and richly flavoured French red wine from a terrific vintage, 2010. This is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Pair with rare steak. Drink: 2015 - 2020 24430 14% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Carolina Reserva De Familia Carmenère 2012, Rapel Valley, Chile: Robust and brooding with exceptional value, like the rest of the wines in the Santa Carolina line-up. Big black fleshy fruit, loaded with toasty oak, tar and smoke. This full-bodied Chilean red wine is made from the country's signature red grape Carmenere. Features aromas of dark spice, graphite, mint, and cedar. Endless, deep and rich. Discuss world domination over a rare piece of filet mignon. Carmenère food pairings: wine-braised beef, turkey with heavy sauces, wild boar, bison chili.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 34942 15% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, rich, deeply concentrated BC red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes during the strong 2012 vintage. Pair with roast beef. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 73098 14% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Candor Lot 6 Zinfandel, Central Coast, California, United States: A non-vintage Californian Zinfandel with mocha, coffee and loads of toasty oak on the nose and palate from lavish oak aging. Finishes with chocolate and espresso. Some black fruit. Pair with Mexican mole. Zinfandel food pairings: cheese pizza, hearty meat meals, lasagna, Asiago.. Drink: 2014 - 2017 133389 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Guillou 2012, Montagne, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: A medium-bodied, easy-drinking French red wine blend from Bordeaux. Notes of dark fruit and some oak. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2014 - 2017 140483 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Alto Moncayo Veraton 2012, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain: A savoury, juicy, lip-smacking delicious Spanish red wine with incredible depths of concentrated dark fruit flavour. Think fleshy black plum and blackberries with some cedar smoke and savoury bacon notes. So, so tasty. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2014 - 2019 173211 15.5% D 750 mL $36.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ernie Els Big Easy 2013, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A terrific, toasty, blockbuster South African red wine with brooding dark fruit and cedar notes. Perfect for when you almost got a hole in one ... Yes, this is named after the famous golfer who owns the winery. This wine is a blend of mostly shiraz with some cabernet sauvignon with small dashes of cinsault, mourvèdre, grenache and viognier grapes. Savoury, meaty note with mouth-watering juiciness. Let's go back to the clubhouse and discuss over a juicy steak. Food pairings: grilled beef medallions in a peppercorn sauce.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 220038 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rocca Di Castagnoli Chianti Classico 2013, 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. This sangiovese-based wine finishes with dried herbs. Try it with pasta in a meat sauce tonight. Chianti Classico food pairings: beef, pasta, veal, lamb.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 222810 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Montes Aurelio's Selection Napa Angel Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian Cabernet made and owned by one of Chile's best-known producers. Offers aromas of black fruit and toasty oak. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hodge-podge, grilled burgers, Margherita pizza, hamburger.. Drink: 2016 - 2020 255802 14.5% D 750 mL $51.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bottega Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A rich, full-bodied Ripasso with gorgeous aromas of black fruit, smoke and oak on the nose. Lovely texture and weight on the palate. Somewhat and surprisingly short on the finish. Pair with prime rib. Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso food pairings: meat lovers pizza , spicy sausage , prime rib roast, hearty winter stew.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 261453 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Columbia Crest Winery Grand Estates Merlot 2012, Washington, United States: A rich, smooth, textured Washington State wine from one of its best producers. Aromas of fleshy black plum and chocolate. Satin smooth and satisfying. Pair with a pepper steak. Merlot food pairings: Tandoori-flavored dishes, game, rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse. Drink: 2014 - 2017 454835 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Plumpjack Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Oakville, Napa Valley, California, United States: A rich, full-bodied Californian Cabernet with aromas of cassis and blackberry. Toasty oak on the palate and finish. Juicy and layered. Alcohol comes in high at 15.4%. Pair with a pepper steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, veal chops, pork tenderloin, barbecued ribs.. Drink: 2014 - 2017 296483 15.4% D 750 mL $156.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Reif Estate Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Niagara River, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied and layered Niagara Cabernet from the strong 2012 vintage. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hodge-podge, grilled burgers, Margherita pizza, hamburger.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 304162 12.6% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Robert Oatley Wines Shiraz 2013, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, mocha-rich Australian red wine with coffee, espresso and vanilla smoke from toasty oak aging. Lots of layers and pleasure. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 327387 14% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Minervois La Livinière 2011, Midi A.C., France: A robust southern French red wine with aromas of black cherry and black raspberry with some spicy strawberry on the finish. Pair with lamb in rosemary. Drink: 2014 - 2018 341958 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dandelion Vineyards Lioness Of Mclaren Vale Shiraz 2013, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied, robust and rustic with full-throttle black fruit, smoke, oak and spice aromas. This single vineyard Australian red wine is made form the Shiraz grape. Polished tannins and a long finish. Decant 1 hour and pair with rare steak. Shiraz food pairings: game meats, rare roast beef, spice-braised lamb, cheddar, grilled pork chops.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 357475 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ornellaia 2012, Bolgheri, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: This wine really needs some serious time to unwind: it's wound up tighter than a cobra right now. Lots of black fruit and toasty oak with massive tannins gripping on the palate. Structured like Back: big, deep, heavy tones. Pair with eternity. Drink: 2018 - 2030 15728 14.5% D 375 mL $103.95 Score: 96/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ornellaia 2012, Bolgheri, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: This wine really needs some serious time to unwind: it's wound up tighter than a cobra right now. Lots of black fruit and toasty oak with massive tannins gripping on the palate. Structured like Back: big, deep, heavy tones. Pair with eternity. Drink: 2018 - 2030 382515 14.5% D 1500 mL $520.00 Score: 96/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Casa Castillo El Molar 2013, Jumilla D.O., Spain: A full-bodied Spanish red wine with aromas and flavours of black fruit and dark spice. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2014 - 2018 397190 15% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mollydooker Carnival Of Love Shiraz 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Concentrated, rich and dark with aromas and flavours of black fruit, toasty oak and dark spice. Pair with robust meat dishes. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup.. Drink: 2013 - 2018 418723 16% XD 750 mL $116.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Des Versauds Morgon 2011, Beaujolais A.C., France: A lovely, smooth, medium-bodied French red wine from the southern Burgundian region of Beuajolais that is pack with flavour. Aromas of black cherry, pepper and spice. Pair with grilled chicken or pork shops. Drink: 2014 - 2018 424879 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Perez Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: A consistently solid Chilean producer of red wine including this robust Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of black fruit, spice and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled lamb chops, veal chops, mushroom burgers, pepper steaks.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 431015 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
In Situ Signature Wines Hillside Blend 2012, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: A full-bodied Chilean red wine blend with aromas of dark fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2014 - 2018 431098 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Terlato Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Rich and full-bodied with aromas of fleshy black plums and dark spice. Savoury, chewy and juicy mouth-watering lusciousness. Perfect for grilled steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 437137 14.8% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Masi Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: A full-bodied, intensely concentrated Italian red wine made using the Appassimento method of drying grapes before fermentation to add intensity of flavour, body and alcohol to the final wine. Pair with roast beef. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: pasta with a tomato sauce, roasted venison, beef and veggie stew, leg of lamb.. Drink: 2015 - 2022 462812 15.5% D 750 mL $99.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sassicaia 2012, Bolgheri, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: A cult Italian wine dubbed one of the Super Tuscans for breaking away from traditional Italian winemaking rules to create blends that eventually became more coveted and expensive than the highest classified wines in the country. Eventually, this winery was granted its very own DOC or appellation in recognition of its quality. The 2012 vintage was a spectacular one, and this wine has a long life ahead of it. Aromas of black fruit, smoke, dark spice and pencil led. Pair with rare filet mignon. Drink: 2017 - 2022 27611 13.5% D 750 mL $316.00 Score: 95/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stags' Leap Winery Petite Sirah 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Richly dark berries wrapped in smoke and dark spice with voluptuous layers on the palate. Full-bodied and endlessly long on the finish. Here's a rare chance to try a lesser-known varietal on its own that's usually used in blending. Petite Sirah food pairings: venison, barbecued steak, pork tenderloin.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 590356 14.1% D 750 mL $60.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Two Hands Wines Bella's Garden Shiraz 2013, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, deeply concentrated Australian Shiraz with attractive aromas of black plum and blackberry. Mouth-filling and delicious. Pair with roast beef. Shiraz food pairings: marinated pepper steaks, burgers with blue cheese, grilled pork chops, Muscovy duck.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 636407 15.8% D 750 mL $64.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Luce 2012, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A robust, complex, beautifully structured Italian red wine blend. Aromas of fleshy blackberry and black plum with smoke. Very seductive. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2022 685263 13.5% D 750 mL $114.95 Score: 94/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: This full-bodied Californian red wine from Joseph Phelps is the winery' leading label, Insignia. Aromas of black fruit, smoke, dark spice and pepper. Pair with rare filet mignon. Drink: 2015 - 2020 710400 14.5% D 750 mL $535.00 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Vineyards Geyserville 2013, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A towering, monumental Californian red wine from one of the state's most respected producers. Aromas of black fruit, dark spice and toasty oak. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2016 - 2022 723072 14.5% XD 750 mL $96.00 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: A dense, hugely tannic red wine that needs c=serious cellar time to come together and calm down. Black fruit, oak and tannin... All the elements are separate right now like an orchestra warming up. But I think in time it will come together. When you do open this bottle decant 2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: strong cheese, barbecued steak, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad.. Drink: 2017 - 2021 936039 14.2% D 750 mL $282.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chapel Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Deep ruby hue with violet accents on the nose of this fabulous Australian red wine. Classic Cabernet nose of blackcurrant, cassis and sage brush on this Australian red wine. Full-bodied and very solidly structured. Packed with dark fruit personality and flavour. Finishes with oak spice and dried herbs. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Great for steak. This voluptuous Australian red wine would also pair well with other fine cuts of meat. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef, pork tenderloin, burgers, hard cheese.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 965830 14.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elderton Ode To Lorraine Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This big, black fruited Australian red wine is produced by the Ashmead Family. It proffers a savoury, meaty note and mouth-watering acidity. Layered and delicious. I recommend many of the wines from this winery with my highest ratings, and deservingly so. Master craftsmanship here. Elderton winery is certified Carbon Neutral. I don't know who Lorraine is, but I'd like to thank her for being the inspiration for this wine. This full-bodied red wine is a blend of about mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Shiraz and Merlot grapes. Pair with roast beef. Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot food pairings: meatloaf, pork tenderloin.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 976423 14.5% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 94/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2007, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A towering, blockbuster Italian red wine. Rich black cherry liqueur and dark spice aromas with layers of full-bodied goodness on the palate. A long, lasting finish. Taste to see what a decade of patience yields in the glass. Benchmark Veneto red wine. Pair with prime rib. A huge Italian red wine blend meant for hearty meat dishes and conversation. Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: beef steak, smoked ribs.. Drink: 2015 - 2020 986117 15% D 750 mL $98.95 Score: 94/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Antinori Guado Al Tasso 2012, Bolgheri. Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: A modern-style, almost Californian cab-style wine, with fleshy ripe blackberry and tons of toasty oak. Pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2017 - 2020 986380 14.5% XD 750 mL $204.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Antinori Solaia 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Grilled bacon and lots of smoke on the nose of this cult Italian red wine, aka a Super Tuscan. Lots of toasted black fruit, dried herbs, cherry tar and toasty oak. The 2011 vintage of Solaia finishes with black truffle and violets. Needs cellar time then decant 2 hours. Drink: 2017 - 2022 987586 14.5% XD 750 mL $252.95 Score: 96/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Burrowing Owl 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is a concentrated and full-bodied Cab with layers of blackberry, black plum, dried wild herbs, sage, olive, cedar brush and toasty oak spice vibrant, concentrated and long on the palate. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Pair with grilled steaks topped with blue cheese or sage butter. Drink or hold. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 73098 14% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosés
Miraval Rosé 2014, Côtes De Provence A.P., France: This wine doesn't need to ride on the back of their celebrity: it stands alone as a terrific, refreshing rose with aromas of small field strawberries, orange zest and light spices. It's made by the much-respected Perrin family. Should I add though that there's a hint of drama on the nose, with a surprise twist finish? Sure to be a box office hit at your liquor store. Bottled Hollywood style in a lovely, shapely vessel. Lovely ballet slipper pink hue. Finishes floral and elegant. Pair with oysters and movie night. Rosé food pairings: planked salmon, pate, roast chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2017 342584 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. November 2015. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sparkling Wine
Featherstone Cuvee Joy Sparkling 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Toasty and robust with rich layers of freshly baked bread in this brilliant Ontario bubbly. Some lemon brightness through the centre and mid-palate. Lovely persistence of bubbles and a clean, crisp finish with some Granny Smith apple notes. Delightful, especially for the price. This Niagara sparkler is made using the Champagne approach and grapes (Mèthode Champenoise). It's bottle-fermented from the winery's estate-grown Chardonnay in the French Mèthode Classique. Inspired by traditions of the best sparkling wine houses of Europe, the wine is named after a woman at the heart of the winery's family - the winemaker's mother, Joyce. It's sealed with a crown-cap closure and festive red ribbon. Pair with shellfish and happiness. Food pairings: shellfish, fried chicken, salads. Drink: 2012 - 2018 310334 12.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moët & Chandon Brut Grand Vintage Champagne 2006, Champagne A.C., France: Superb, toasty and robust sparkling wine with zesty notes of green apple and baked bread. Complex and layered, yet with a mature nuance that makes this Champagne fascinating and so different from the Non-Vintage variety. Pair with holiday dinners and gift giving. Champagne food pairings: Thai coconut shrimp, pasta with cheese-based sauce, caviar, shellfish, seafood risotto.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 69773 12.5% XD 750 mL $88.95 Score: 94/100. November 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Saracco Moscato D'asti 2014, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Fresh honeysuckle and apple blossom in this lovely, lovely, low alcohol, slightly fizzy dessert wine. Beautiful. Try it with biscotti, fruit flan or on its own. Moscato D'asti food pairings: soft cheeses, appetizers.. Drink: 2014 - 2016 106385 5.5% M 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Krone Vintage Rosé Cuvée Brut 2014, South Africa: Offers attractive raspberry notes on the nose. Nice price, and very festive. This wine is riddled, just as they do in Champagne (rémuage) with the bottles turned by hand periodically so that the lees (sediment) gently and slowly collect in the neck. Pair with potato chips and oysters. Why not? Food pairings: beef and root vegetable stew, grilled salmon, crab legs, chili.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 130047 12.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Josef Chromy Pepik Sekt Sparkling Wine, Tasmania, Australia: A dry, vibrant Australian sparkling wine with aromas of fresh lime and lemon. Racy acidity on the palate. Pair with fresh seafood. Sparkling Wine food pairings: curry dishes, lamb stew, white turkey meat, pulled pork sammies.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 429704 12% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
Domaine Des Malandes Chablis 2014, Burgundy A.C., France: Incredibly juicy and mouth-watering and yet the racy acidity here is not what I call searing. It demands food, like shellfish or seafood or even roast chicken. Gorgeous notes of lime, green apple and white citrus like grapefruit. Unoaked northern Burgundian Chardonnay. Chablis food pairings: seafood.. Drink: 2014 - 2019 111658 12.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hugel Tradition Pinot Gris 2012, Alsace A.C., France: Despite the relatively high alcohol at 14% this wine is incredibly fresh and light-bodied with lovely white peach and pear notes. Dry and mouth-watering. How strangely wonderful. Pair with seafood. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , seafood, pasta with cream sauce.. Drink: 2013 - 2017 118919 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Max Roger Winery Cuvée G.C. Sancerre 2014, Loire A.C., France: Crisp, dry, mouth-watering with green apple and lime. Pure focus on fruit light intensity. Pair with spinach quiche. Drink: 2014 - 2017 189126 12.5% D 750 mL $37.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kistler Les Noisetiers Chardonnay 2013, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: This voluptuous Californian Chardonnay sets the benchmark for all others. Gorgeous liquid opulence! Balanced, beautiful and robust. Butterscotch and green apple with hints of white peach on the nose. Creamy, plush, layered and luxurious. Pair this classic Californian Chardonnay with more of itself or Cornish hen. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork chops, stuffed chicken breast, beef bourguignon, cheese.. Drink: 2015 - 2019 251223 14.1% XD 750 mL $139.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Donnachiara Greco Di Tufo 2013, Campania D.O.C.G., Italy: Crisp, dry and mouth-watering with attractive aromas of lime blossom and white melon. Pair with fresh field greens and seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2017 768739 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Les Bêtes Curieuses Gorges Sèvre & Maine Muscadet 2009, Loire A.C., France: A full-bodied French white wine with attractive notes of clementine, lime zest and racy acidity. Well-priced. Pair with shellfish. Muscadet food pairings: green salad, shellfish, eggs Benedict.. Drink: 2013 - 2017 429084 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spy Valley Envoy Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A grassy, herbal Sauvignon Blanc that's been generous fermented and aged in oak barrels. Pair with roast chicken. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: fresh tomato and basil salad, pan-fried freshwater fish, apple stuffed chicken breast, grilled prawns.. Drink: 2013 - 2016 429308 13.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 88/100. November 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tomich Woodside Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: An attractive Australian white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes with good acidity and lime-citrus notes. Pair with fresh seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: seafood salad, choucroute garnie, Asian dishes, pasta primavera.. Drink: 2014 - 2017 430660 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. November 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tomassi Le Rosse Pinot Grigio 2014, Delle Venezie I.G.T., Italy: A vibrant Italian white wine with mouth-wakening notes of melon and citrus. Tommasi is one of the most respected wine producers in the Veneto region. Pair this refreshing white wine with seafood and shellfish. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pan-seared sea scallops.. Drink: 2015 - 2017 19953 12% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pighin Pinot Grigio 2014, Fruili, Grave D.O.C., Italy: Clean and crisp Italian white wine with lemon and grapefruit notes, no heavy oak. This medium-bodied one has a fresh finish with some notes of white pear. Dry and satisfying! Lovely minerality on the finish. Try it with mixed field greens. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pan-fried freshwater fish, salads, frittata, basil pesto, herbed chicken breast.. Drink: 2015 - 2017 987545 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry of Pelham Winery Chardonnay 2013, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very balanced and well-rounded without being heavy. Lovely green apple notes with some toasted hazelnut on the finish from the barrel fermentation and aging. There's fresh baked bread notes sprinkled with some cinnamon aromas on the finish. Lovely! Pair with quail. Chardonnay food pairings: crab legs, corn dishes, stuffed chicken breast. Drink: 2013 - 2018 268342 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cloudy Bay Chardonnay 2012, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Toasted almond and hazelnut on the nose, with green apple vibrancy, gorgeous balance. I thought I loved this winery's Sauvignon Blanc best but now it's a toss up. Try this with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 359513 13.5% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 93/100. November 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart