Dessert Wine
Château Dereszla 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2007, Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary: A gorgeous Hungarian dessert wine that's not cloyingly sweet yet it's richly complex and concentrated. Honey heaven for angels with apricot wings. Pair with angel cake (or devil's food cake). Tokaji Aszú food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2015 - 2022 12203 12.5% S 500 mL $45.95 Score: 95/100. December 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ruppertsberger Linsenbusch Gewürztraminer Spätlese 2014, Pfalz Prädikatswein, Germany: A gorgeous German sweet wine with layers of honeyed apricot flavours and some peach notes on the finish. Pair with fruit flans. Gewürztraminer Spätlese food pairings: honey cake, chocolate cookies, berry tarts, apple dumplings. Drink: 2014 - 2022 320473 11% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Patrick Chan On Ice Riesling Icewine 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The 2013 vintage is the first one for this splendid icewine from the champion figure skater, Patrick Chan. He's teamed up with Flat Rock winery to create his new line of wines. Peach loveliness, elegant, graceful, precise yet self-contained with an inner power like Patrick himself. Love it. Attractive aromas of apricot and apple crumble. Pair with fruit flans and aspirational dreams. Riesling Icewine food pairings: apple dumplings, blueberry grunt, cheese cake, banana split. Drink: 2014 - 2020 438861 10% S 200 mL $34.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cotnari Vin Alb Dulce Tãmâioasã Româneascã 2012, Cotnari D.O.C., Romania: Pretty and light and tastes like medium sweet, not sweet sweet. Fresh peaches with cream on a sunny deck. Pair with fruit-based desserts. This lovely Romanian dessert wine is pretty and light and tastes like medium sweet, not cloyingly sweet. Pair with fresh peaches with cream or other fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2017 458786 11.5% S 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
Gnarly Head Old Vine Zin Zinfandel 2013, Lodi, California, United States: Aromas of purple plum preserves and blueberries on the nose. The palate opens up luxuriously, smooth and full-bodied with more lip-smacking tasty flavours of dark fruit. An amazing wine for BBQ ribs or chicken wings. Fire up the grill! The wine is named for the gnarled 35-80 year old vines from which the grapes are sources: these vines produce fewer, but more richly flavoured fruit. Produced by Delicato Family Vineyards. Zinfandel food pairings: BBQ ribs, chicken wings, spaghetti, pizza, lamb shank. Drink: 2015 - 2018 678698 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Athene 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Black fruit and charred toasty oak on the nose and palate of this full-bodied BC red wine. A bit hot on the palate from the alcohol. Supple, with good cellar aging capability. Food pairings: grilled steaks. Drink: 2016 - 2020 371336 14% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir Pic Saint Loup 2011, Coteaux Du Languedoc, Midi A.P., France: Full-bodied with savoury notes of cedar brush, garrigue and wild black cherry. Pair with grilled pork chops or lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 376491 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barossa Valley Estate Ebenezer Shiraz 2007, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This spectacular red wine manages to be both rich and deeply flavoured yet fresh and vibrant. How do they do that? Well, I'm not going to spend a lot of time trying to figure it out: let's just enjoy the fruits of their labour, shall we? A corridor of cool mint blackberry happiness breezes up from the glass. Full-bodied, supple and gulpable. You will want more so don't just buy one bottle. Great with hearty meat dishes. Love that this is a mature Shiraz: hard to find those on the market these days: offers an intriguing look at just how well superbly crafted Australian Shiraz can age. Shiraz food pairings: pizza, barbecued beef, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken, fajitas. Drink: 2012 - 2017 971705 13.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Napa Cellars Merlot 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha and dark chocolate on the nose with luscious black fruit unfolding the palate and mouth-filling juiciness. This wine was aged in 100% French oak, 46% of which was new. There were 988 barrels produced of this wine. A intense, deep Merlot offering dark fruit and toasty oak. Finishes long and smooth with blackberry and cedar smoke. Perfect for a rare, juicy steak tonight. Merlot food pairings: prime rib, grilled leg of lamb, pork, roasted turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2018 161299 14.1% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Luca Malbec 2012, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied with lots of attractive mocha and chocolate on the nose from generous oak aging. Fleshy black fruit emerges on the palate. Delicious and layered. The grapes for this full-bodied red wine come from three vineyards in the Uco Valley in Altamira, La Consulta and Gualtallary. The vines are an average 46 years old. the wine is then matured for 16 months in French oak, 60% of which is new. Pair with prime rib. Malbec food pairings: pizza, lamb, spicy sausage, beef, hamburger. Drink: 2014 - 2018 167312 14% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Montes Purple Angel Carmenere 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Purple Angel will make you feel as though you've gone to heaven aloft a cloud of sensory pleasure. Can one wine pack more flavour into the bottle? I'm skeptical. If you love full-bodied, juicy, fruit-forward wines, this is your apogee as it also has all of those other great hallmarks of superb wine: complexity, balance and finish. Pair with a juicy steak. Yes please! Carmenere food pairings: hearty meat dishes, grilled steaks, osso buco. Drink: 2014 - 2020 62364 14% XD 750 mL $96.95 Score: 96/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
KWV Cathedral Cellar Shiraz 2013, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Full-bodied and robust South African Shiraz with aromas of cassis, rust (in a good way) and dark spice. Perfect for pepperoni pizza. Shiraz food pairings: bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken, hamburgers, pizza, barbecued beef. Drink: 2015 - 2019 561142 14.3% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Irony Small Lot Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied, smooth Californian Cabernet with a chalky dry finish. Aromas of blackcurrant and cassis and toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2015 - 2017 25106 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Edge Wines Signorello Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, North Coast, California, United States: Dark chocolate and toasty oak on the nose of this Californian red wine are followed by brooding black fruit aromas and seductive dark spices, smoke and dried herbs. Good balance, depth and concentration with a satisfying finish. Try it with grilled pork chops tonight. Try this with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers, meaty pasta dishes, hard cheese, steaks, chicken wings, pork. Drink: 2015 - 2018 34223 13.5% D 750 mL $38.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Castelgiocondo Marchesi De' Frescobaldi Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Great concentration and depth of flavour on the palate. This blockbuster is in serious need of cellar time. This full-bodied red wine features aromas of blackberry, black plums, smoky oak and tar. It's fairly smooth, though this will improve with aging. Decant for 1-2 hours when you open it. A powerful and classic Italian red wine. Pair with prime rib. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: pasta in meat sauce, spicy sausages, grilled meats, game. Drink: 2014 - 2019 35295 14% XD 375 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Teusner The Riebke Shiraz 2013, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied Australian red wine made from the country's classic Shiraz grape. This blockbuster offers tart black fruit and toasty oak on the nose with a good grip on the palate. Barossa is Australia's heartland for Shiraz. This one offers great complexity and a long finish. Pair with prime rib. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup, cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2018 48470 14.6% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Groom Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied Australian Shiraz with lavish oak aging and aromas: smoke, coffee, espresso, cigar box, tobacco and dark chocolate. Some fleshy ripe black plums on the palate. Pair with roast beef. Shiraz food pairings: pepper steaks, burgers with blue cheese, black bean soup, cheese pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 74237 14.6% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Ema Amplus Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Maipo Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile: A full-bodied, black-fruited Chilean red wine with aromas of cigar box, dried tobacco leaves and toasty oak. Pair with rare meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 76307 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: A towering, blockbuster Californian Cabernet that still needs cellar time. Classic aromas of cassis and black currant Deeply concentrated and complex with a firm tannic grip that will integrate and become smoother with cellar time then decanting of 2 hours. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: veal chops, rosemary lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, chicken cacciatore. Drink: 2016 - 2022 91058 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cerro Añon Reserva 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A full-bodied, mature Spanish red wine with dried fruit and herbs. At peak now. Not fruity at all any at now. Pair with a juicy steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 114306 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Alta Vista Premium La Casa Del Ray Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: Wow, this is a full-on Argentine red wine loaded with flavour and character! Aromas of fleshy blackberry, cassis and toasty oak. Gorgeous dark colour belies the concentration of this powerhouse that finishes long and satisfying. Superb value. It's big, but balanced and cries out for a brontosaurus burger, or another hearty meat dish. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled sausages, juicy steaks, hard cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2018 129957 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Les Aphillanthes Vieilles Vignes 2012, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, Rhône A.C., France: A spectacular, full-bodied southern French red wine from the heart of the Rhone Valley. Aromas of black fruit, wild brush and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2015 - 2020 144832 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Beringer Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: This complex, subtle and full-bodied cabernet sauvignon has great elegance and a long finish. Dark fruit and smoke notes on this red wine, with lots of layers and great cellar potential. Superb craftsmanship. Highly recommended. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this benchmark wine are grown in one of Napa Valley's greatest vineyards. Winemaker Laurie Hook's superb craftsmanship is evident. The wine is aged for about 18 months in custom-toasted new French oak barrels. Pair with rare filet mignon. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2021 149955 14.6% D 750 mL $164.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Posta Pizzella Malbec 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: This dark, meaty and full-bodied Argentine wine sources its Malbec grapes from local growers, the Pizzella Family Vineyard (Ed Lehrman and Nick Ramkowsky). Lots of chocolate, espresso, coffee and mocha from oak aging. This La Posta is more robust than the winery's Angel Paulucci red wine. Winemakers Paula and Pablo Pizzella grow the grapes in Altamira, Mendoza. Pair with Mexican mole. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2015 - 2017 166298 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Réserve Des Armoiries Demazet 2012, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: This full-bodied southern French red wine from the Rhone Valley is cedary with wild black fruit, cassis and blackcurrant. Excellent for the price. Robust and relatively smooth, though decant for 1 hour. Savoury and mouth-watering. Perfect for hearty meat dishes like prime rib. Food pairings: slow-roasted beef, leg of lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2019 194886 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michael David Petite Petit 2013, Lodi, California, United States: Full-bodied, with rich aromas of mocha and dark chocolate with black fruit on the nose. Finishes with anise, coffee and spice. This wine mostly Petite Sirah with a small amount of Petit Verdot grapes in the blend. Pair with grilled lamb chops. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2015 - 2018 213017 14.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ernie Els Big Easy 2013, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Savoury, juicy and lip-smacking with dried herbs and a core of spicy, wild blackberry. Pair with a ribeye steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 220038 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Karydas Xinomavro 2010, Naoussa P.D.O., Greece: A juicy, ultra-dry, mouth-watering Greek red with superb balance and complexity. More bones and structure than fruit here: tanned leather, dried herbs and lots of acidity for food. Contemplative wine for sipping or pair with juicy meats like lamb. Xinomavro food pairings: lamb, pizza, planked salmon, paté. Drink: 2013 - 2018 272013 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2013, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain: This winery is located south of Rioja and is comprised of 100% Garnacha grapes. The Garnacha grapes for this wine grow on old vines, which provides additional concentration and flavour. Great structure. This full-bodied Spanish red wine was fermented in stainless steel; half of the wine was matured in small French oak barrels, of which about 40% new, and the remaining half in stainless steel tank. Lots of mocha and dark chocolate aromas on the nose that are then flooded with lusciously ripe black fruit on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. A rich darkly hued colour in the glass. A long, satisfying finish. Pair with grilled meats. The 2013 vintage of the Tres Picos offers solid value. Garnacha food pairings: veal, soft cheese, roast pork, lamb, turkey. Drink: 2015 - 2020 273748 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Marchand-Tawse Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: A very seductive nose of black cherry and violets. Smooth, supple and almost full-bodied with great richness on the palate. Aromas of sour cherry, cranberry and wild tart blackberry. Good acidity for smoked salmon or grilled chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal scaloppini, beef, smoked salmon, coq au vin. Drink: 2015 - 2019 285601 13% XD 750 mL $32.25 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Small Gully Mr. Black's Little Book Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This robust Barossa Shiraz reads well on the palate and finish. A narrative of rich and layered nuances of blackberry, mint and black plum aromas. Smooth, with polished tannins and a long finish. Terrific mouth-watering juiciness. Pair this big red with roast beef or a literary bio-pic film. Shiraz food pairings: pork, pasta in meat sauce, steak, lamb cutlets, beef brisket, peppercorn steak. Drink: 2015 - 2019 287979 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mazzei Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Juicy and full-bodied Italian red wine with lots of wild black cherry notes, some smoke and mocha. Savoury and meaty with a long finish. The Mazzei family have been the owners of this Italian winery, Castello di Fonterutoli, since 1435. The 2010 vintage of the Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Lapo offers black fruit aromas and firm tannins. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Pair with grilled meats. Chianti Classico Riserva food pairings: ravioli, beef stew, pizza, pork chops. Drink: 2015 - 2018 288530 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burgess Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Hickory woodsmoke on the nose and palate from generous oak aging. Some blackcurrant and cassis on the palate. This would benefit both from cellar aging and decanting 2 hours. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2016 - 2020 291914 14.5% D 750 mL $86.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Punset Barbaresco 2010, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: A full-bodied Italian red wine with lots of mouth-watering acidity on the palate. Some spicy, acidic cherry notes along with tree sap. Pair with grilled pork chops. Barbaresco food pairings: barbecued leg of lam, cheddar cheese, roasted pork loin, game birds. Drink: 2014 - 2018 302786 14% XD 750 mL $55.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2012, South Australia, Australia: A rich, complex, full-bodied red wine blend of Cabernet and Shiraz grapes from one of Australia's best producers. Black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours on the nose and mid-palate. Penfold's Bin 389 is sometimes referred to fondly as "Baby Grange" as sells for a fraction of the winery's flagship Grange, but still demonstrates superb craftsmanship in the hands of chief winemaker Peter Gago and his team. Pair with grilled meats. Highly recommended. Cabernet Shiraz food pairings: beef. Drink: 2015 - 2019 309625 14% XD 750 mL $100.00 Score: 93/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Monser Feteascã Neagrã 2012, 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 along with some sweet cinnamon spice on the finish. 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: 2015 - 2017 315069 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Doolhof Dark Lady Of The Labyrinth Dark Delight Pinotage 2013, Wellington W.O., South Africa: Sweet mocha coffee aromas on the nose that is followed by smokier espresso on the palate. Full-bodied, smooth and deeply, weirdly attractive. Pair with smoked meats or breakfast. Pinotage food pairings: coffee-rubbed beef, grilled peppercorn steak, meat topped pizza, gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 376889 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michael David 6Th Sense Syrah 2012, Lodi, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian Syrah with lots of aromas and flavours of chocolate, mocha, cocoa and coffee from lavish oak aging. Some black plums underneath. Syrah food pairings: game meats, rare roast beef, spice-braised lamb, cheddar. Drink: 2014 - 2017 149756 15% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Crema Panorama Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California, United States: Terrific balance on this Californian Pinot Noir from very evidently a cool climate. Balanced, racy and exciting. No cherry fruit bomb here, thank-you, though it's generously flavoured. Pair with grilled or roasted chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, lamb in a red wine sauce, roasted pork loin, tourtière. Drink: 2015 - 2020 417303 14.5% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Red Blend 2012, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: A full-bodied Washington state red wine made from varietals that do well in the Columbia Valley. Notes of cassis and blackcurrant with a pleasant bitter finish wrapped in mocha. Pair with braised meats. Drink: 2015 - 2018 421081 14.5% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Rita Secret Reserve Red Blend 2013, Maipo Valley, Chile: A full-bodied, fleshy ripe Chilean red wine with attractive flavours of red and black fruits and smoke. Pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2015 - 2018 431080 XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château L'hermitage 2003, Saint-Émilion Bordeaux A.C., France: Surprisingly the 2003 vintage of this wine still has life in it, a testament to its craftsmanship. This is definitely mature, and at peak but enjoyable. Aromas of dried black fruit, cigar box, dried herbs, dark spice and tobacco leaves. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2012 - 2017 431692 13.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Trio Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Shiraz 2013, Maipo Valley: A full-bodied, well-priced Chilean red wine that's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc grapes. Mouth-watering and juicy, pair this wine with pepper steak. Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Shiraz food pairings: hearty stew, stuffed roasted turkey. Drink: 2014 - 2017 433912 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stonestreet Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied and complex Californian red wine with aromas of wild tart blackberry and cedar brush. Finishes with a lick of dark spice. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Drink: 2016 - 2021 435099 14.5% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Croix Du Casse 2010, Pomerol, Bordeaux A.C., France: Chary and black-hearted by very tasty. Black chary fruit, mocha and toasty oak with layered complexity from a superb vintage. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2015 - 2020 436097 14% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Du Bois De Saint-Jean La Ballade Des Anglès Vacqueyras 2013, Rhône A.C., France: Extremely dark and chary black, almost not fruity, but more tarry flavours and smoke and black spice. Full-bodied and almost smooth. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2014 - 2017 437178 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Georges Puig Le Fort Saint Pierre 2011, Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi A.C., France: A full-bodied southern French red wine from the heart of the Rhone Valley with notes of cedar brush, wild black chary and dark spice. Pair with gourmet burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 437517 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Suau 2010, Côtes De Bordeaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: Spicy with charred black fruit and dark spices in this full-bodied French red wine. Needs a rare steak to dance with those furry tannins. Drink: 2014 - 2018 437889 13% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Frédignac Terroir 2012, Blaye-Côtes De Bordeaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A vibrant and robust Bordeaux red wine with classic aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry with some spice. Perfect for hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2018 438150 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Victor Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Lodi, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian Cabernet with relatively high alcohol that's perceptible on the palate and finish. Nonetheless, this is an enjoyable wine especially with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge. Drink: 2015 - 2018 438515 14.7% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Murua Reserva 2007, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Dry and mature, at peak right now. This Spanish red wine is all bones as the flesh has rescinded to the background. This makes it a contemplative wine for those who enjoy good acidity for food, and more earthy, leather, dusty aromas rather than ripe fruit. Pair with rack of lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2016 439836 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Salentein Reserve Malbec 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: Round, polished tannins give a velvet mouth-feel. This wine was aged 12 months in French oak. A richly hued wine that finishes with black plum, mocha and vanilla spice and a lick of black pepper. Pair with game dishes and duck comfit. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2015 - 2017 640854 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Crios Syrah Bonarda 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: A robust and supple Argentine red wine with aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2017 657619 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Toasted Head Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, California, United States: Juicy and full-bodied and smooth Californian Cabernet that goes down slippery easy. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plums and blackberries. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued ribs in sauce, chicken cacciatore, hamburger, hodge-podge. Drink: 2014 - 2018 686824 13.5% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: This wine almost jumps out of the glass in its vibrancy and intensity. It's incredibly flavourful for Australian cabernet which is usually far more austere than shiraz. Pair this full-bodied red wine with pepperoni pizza. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled lamb, bison burgers, chicken salad, pork tenderloin, autumn hodge-podge. Drink: 2015 - 2018 730374 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Vite Lucente 2013, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Complex, full-bodied yet nuanced and long on the finish. This vibrant Italian red wine features gorgeous aromas of dried black cherry, cedar, smoke, fleshy blackberries from an iconic producer. It's a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, and it was aged for 1 year in French barriques. Decant for 1 hour. Pair this wine with prime rib. Food pairings: pepper steak. Drink: 2015 - 2021 747030 13.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lan Gran Reserva Tempranillo 2006, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This full-bodied Spanish red wine is a blend of mostly Tempranillo, and small amounts of Mazuelo and Graciano grapes grown on 20- to 25-year-old vines. Complex with aromas of cigar box, leather, violets and black cherry. Full-bodied and mouth-watering. Love the taste and feel of maturity in this wine. Drinking well now though will also keep in the cellar for a few years. Pair with veal. A gorgeous garnet hue in the glass. Very mouth-filling and coating. Long, lingering finish. Pair with toasted nuts, hard cheeses and gentle conversation. Tempranillo food pairings: herbed steaks, portobello mushroom, chili, soup, lamb chops. Drink: 2013 - 2019 928622 13.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barone Ricasoli Castello Di Brolio Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: I've long been a fan of the wine's under Ricasoli's Castello di Brolio line. Even in the challenging vintage of 2011, this is so well made. Balanced, complex with a long finish. Dark fruit but more smoke, earth and leather. Pair with a juicy beef dish. Chianti Classico food pairings: roast beef, cheesy pizza, stuffed roasted turkey, breaded veal cutlets. Drink: 2014 - 2020 942607 14% D 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Catena Alta Historic Rows Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Coffee aromas on the nose with fleshy ripe blackberry and plum flavours on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. Lovely, long espresso-anise finish. Truly one of Argentina's flagship wineries. Try it with rare tenderloin. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, cheddar cheese, herb-rubbed roast chicken. Drink: 2015 - 2018 982355 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Remo Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2012, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: A dense, dark, deeply concentrated red wine with charred black fruit and lots of smoke and dark spice. Requires (demands) a huge meaty dish as a companion. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: leg of lamb, cheese, venison stew, hearty lasagna. Drink: 2014 - 2018 995910 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Remo Farina Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Juicy, robust and vibrant: a terrific wine especially at this price point. Aromas of black fleshy ripe blackberries, black plums and some dark spice. Almost reminds me of Californian Zinfandel but with a darker undertone. Perfect for grilled meats and barbecue. Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso food pairings: hearty winter stew, turkey burgers, pasta with a cream based sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2018 999946 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sparkling Wine
Tawse Winery Inc. Spark Limestone Ridge Riesling 2013, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Bright and zesty with lime-alive aromas and toasty bread. Great value and quality for the price of this Ontario sparkling wine. Finishes with a lick lemon zest. This Niagara bubbly is made from Riesling from the winery's Limestone Ridge Estate Vineyard. This is a great gift wine or pair it with shellfish. Riesling food pairings: deep sea scallops. Drink: 2014 - 2017 370361 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne, Champagne, France: Toasted hazelnut aromas on the nose of this lovely Champagne with crisp, mouth-watering acidity. Terrific green apple vibrancy on the mid-palate. Perfect for oysters and mussels. Champagne food pairings: lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew, white turkey meat, tacos, seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2019 268771 12% XD 750 mL $67.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry of Pelham Winery Cuvée Catharine Carte Blanche Blancs De Blanc 2010, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A stunning sparkling wine from Niagara from a spectacular vintage. Aromas of freshly baked bread with mleting farmhouse butter, lemon zest and toasted almond. Green apple brightness and racy acidity on the palate. Creamy and mouth-filling. This is truly a knock-out bubbly. Pair with salmon caviar and sour cream or Malpeque oysters with a sqeeze of lemon. Blancs De Blanc food pairings: shellfish, fried foods, Asian fusion dishes, salad. Drink: 2014 - 2019 315200 12.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave de Beblenheim Rosé Crémant D'alsace, Alsace A.C., France: This Brut (dry) French sparkling wine is produced by Cave De Beblenheim. It's light, with mouth-watering notes of wild field raspberries and some toast, especially on the finish. Medium-bodied and juicy with a savoury goodness. Stock up for weddings. Pair with fried chicken. Rosé Crémant D'alsace food pairings: lighter fish, seafood dishes. Drink: 2015 - 2018 168948 12.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Charles Mignon Premium Réserve Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Very toasty and bready, with aromas of freshly baked (still warm) croissants and buns. Robust and flavourful. Pair with caviar. Champagne food pairings: Thai coconut shrimp, pasta with cheese-based sauce, caviar, seafood risotto. Drink: 2014 - 2018 12% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Brigandat & Fils Tradition Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Toasty, crisp, clean and refreshing Champagne with aromas of freshly baked bread and lime zest. Pair with oysters. Champagne food pairings: lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew, crab legs, chili. Drink: 2014 - 2018 421057 12.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henri Giraud Hommage François Hémart Äy Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: This robust and classic Grand Cru Champagne offers attractive notes of toasted bread, green apple and orchard fruit. Pair with fried chicken. Champagne food pairings: lobster thermidore, sushi, lamb stew, pulled pork sammies. Drink: 2014 - 2018 436071 12% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 91/100. December 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2013, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County, California, United States: Attractive tropical fruit and freshly buttered bread on the nose of this full-bodied Californian Chardonnay. The palate of this rich white wine opens up with green apple and melon. Generous, layered and delicious! Pair this with roast turkey or chicken. Highly recommended. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken, shellfish, beef bourguignon, cheese, egg dishes. Drink: 2015 - 2018 59576 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J. Lohr October Night Chardonnay 2013, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California, United States: A buttery, full-bodied Californian Chardonnay with aromas of tangerine spice. Mouth-watering acidity with a good finish. Perfect to pair with roasted turkey or chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, grilled seafood, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2017 225375 14.9% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
McManis Chardonnay 2014, River Junction, California, United States: A medium-bodied, balanced California Chardonnay with soft acidity, and attractive flavours of peach and pear. Finishes with pineapple and buttered toast. This winery is Certified Sustainable, practising farming and winemaking methods that have a lower impact on the environment. Pair with salmon casserole. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2015 - 2017 265983 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De Chalet Pouilly Pouilly-Fuissé 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Rich and full-bodied without being heavy. Lovely aromas of golden apple, butterscotch and pineapple. Very complex with a long finish. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Pouilly-Fuissé food pairings: chicken in a garlic, white wine sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2019 295717 13% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mountadam Chardonnay 2013, High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: In a blind tasting, you'd easily mistake this Australian Chardonnay for a top Burgundian Meursault Chardonnay. Mountadam High Eden Estate is Australia's coolest climate Chardonnay vineyard. Intensely flavoured with mouth-coating viscosity. Pair with buttered popcorn or lobster in melted butter. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled fish, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli with Alfredo sauce, Asian dishes with black bean sauces. Drink: 2015 - 2017 333211 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine du Colombier Chablis 2014, Burgundy A.C., France: This clean, crisp white wine comes to us from Guy Mothe et Ses Fils, prop.-récolt. Bright and vibrant aromas of lemon zest and white grapefruit. Terrific mouth-watering acidity for a variety of dishes. Not a trace of oak on this Old World Chardonnay. Classic and amazingly well-priced. This lemon-infused Chardonnay offers tremendous enjoyment, along with deep veins of minerality and zest. Try this ultra fresh wine with freshly caught haddock or sole. Chablis food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, grilled seafood, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2018 366419 12.5% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Hamelin Beauroy Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Crisp and clean unoaked northern Burgundian Chardonnay from the cool climate of Chablis. Aromas of white pear and apple. Pair with shellfish. Drink: 2014 - 2018 391805 12.5% XD 750 mL $45.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, United States: A robust Californian Chardonnay with assertive aromas of green and golden apple, butterscotch and toffee from oak aging. Good acidity to balance this richness on the palate as well as to pair with food like buttered chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: chicken cordon bleu, Dover sole, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2014 - 2020 394502 13.5% D 750 mL $57.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tawse Limestone Ridge-North Riesling 2013, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely off-dry Niagara Riesling with notes of lemongrass and lime zest. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon. Drink: 2014 - 2019 431593 10% M 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Zinck Pinot Blanc 2014, Alsace A.C., France: A vibrant, zesty Alsatian Pinot Blanc with an assertive acidic attack on the palate. Aromas of white grapefruit and lime. Pair with shellfish. Pinot Blanc food pairings: salmon rice bowl, Thai shrimp, chicken caesar. Drink: 2014 - 2017 435040 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henri Ehrhart Réserve Particulière Riesling 2013, Alsace A.C., France: Lively aromas of grapefruit, lime and green apple: very fresh and lively and mouth-watering. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: planked salmon, feta cheese, duck liver pate, spicy pasta dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2017 435073 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
William Hill Chardonnay 2013, North Coast, California, United States: A rich, golden, butterscotch Californian Chardonnay with layers of luscious flavour. Notes of vanilla toffee and golden apple. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, lobster in melted butter, cheese, grilled seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2018 437251 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ontañón Vetiver Viura 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Perfumed with white floral aromas and a lovely lime blossom on the mid-palate. Medium-bodied: a lively aperitif or companion to shellfish. Drink: 2014 - 2017 437707 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Salmon Grande Réserve Muscadet Sèvre & Maine Sur Lie 2014, Loire A.C., France: A refreshing and crisp French white wine with aromas of lime and green apple. Pair with fresh seafood. Muscadet Sèvre & Maine Sur Lie food pairings: shellfish, pan fried cod fillets. Drink: 2014 - 2017 438309 12% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wynns Coonawarra Estate Chardonnay 2014, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied Australian Chardonnay with lovely replays of green apple, smoke and butter across the palate. Terrific stonefruit on the finish along with some toasty oak. Terrific minerality and racy acidity for food. Pair with seared tuna or scallops. Chardonnay food pairings: basil pesto, prawn bisque, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast. Drink: 2015 - 2018 468728 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Trio Premium Blend Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Casablanca Valley, Rapel Valley, Limarí Valley, Chile: Grassy and refreshing with aromas of chives, lemongrass, lime and grapefruit. Pair with fresh seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: apple stuffed chicken breast, curry fish, salad, grilled prawns. Drink: 2014 - 2016 678656 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Zenato San Benedetto Lugana 2014, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A zesty northern Italian white wine with notes of grapefruit, lime and lemon zest. Racy acidity on the palate for shellfish. Food pairings: roast turkey, planked salmon, pasta in cream sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2017 707158 13% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wither Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Vibrant tropical fruit and lime citrus on the nose of this mouth-watering New Zealand white wine made from Sauvignon blanc grapes. Pair with shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry fish, apple stuffed chicken breast, steamed mussels, herbed couscous salad. Drink: 2014 - 2017 919514 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Coopers Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Juicy and mouth-watering New Zealand Sauvignon that'll pair perfectly with seafood, shellfish or salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: oysters on the half shell, chicken and sage skewers, garden salad, pan-fried freshwater fish. Drink: 2014 - 2016 957407 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
KWV Chardonnay 2013, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A full-bodied, generous round South African Chardonnay with aromas of butterscotch and smoke. Well-priced and delicious. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled fish, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli with Alfredo sauce, Asian dishes with black bean sauces. Drink: 2014 - 2017 328559 14.7% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. December 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kim Crawford Small Parcels Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This is a more complex and richly woven Sauvignon Blanc than the winery's entry-level version. There's a longer pungency and persistence of flavours. Very mouth-filling and luscious with surprising lift and vibrancy. Winemaker Anthony is after more ripe tropical fruit in this expression, such as passion fruit, melon, and guava. So vibrant and expressive with clean slate and white citrus on the finish. Pair with mussels, oysters and scallops. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Margherita pizza, salad, pork, strong cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 38240 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. December 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart