Argentina
Clos de los Siete 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Richly layered and textured Argentine red wine with grapes sourced from seven premium vineyards, thus "Siete." Renowned consulting winemaker Michel Rolland manages the winery and oversees production. Aromas of blackberry, cassis, smoke and dark spice. Pair with sausages. Food pairings: grilled lamb chops, liver and onions. Drink: 2014 - 2019 622571 14.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Luca G Lot Chardonnay 2013, Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina: Butterscotch and baked apple nose -- lots of richness and creamy texture. Layered and complex yet balanced with good length. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, cheese, stuffed pork roast. Drink: 2014 - 2019 167338 14% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Finca El Origen Gran Reserva Malbec 2013, Vista Flores, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Savoury and juicy and fleshy wild blackberry notes. Smooth and ready to drink when you are. Some attractive smoke, vanillin and toasty goodness from oak aging. Finishes with anise and blackberry. Try it with meat lovers' pizza tonight. Malbec food pairings: lamb, spicy sausage, beef, meatloaf, pizza. Drink: 2015 - 2019 65425 14.6% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Bordeaux styling and elegance with Argentine power and concentration. Lovely balance and structure but gorgeously attractive fleshy dark fruit. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with rare steak. Malbec food pairings: cheese pizza , tagliatelle alla Bolognese, chicken herb-rubbed roast, hamburger. Drink: 2015 - 2019 170035 14% D 750 mL $125.00 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Claymore Walk On The Wild Side Shiraz 2013, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Good juicy bite on he palate of this full-bodied, savoury Australian red wine. Not all fleshy fruit... this wine talks back (to your senses and reason). The Claymore Shiraz Viognier is juicy and mouth-watering with purple and black plum aromas and flavours. Full-bodied, smooth and satisfying. Satin smooth tannins with a long finish. Great value. Pair with a rare steak. Shiraz food pairings: steak, hamburgers, meat lovers pizza. Drink: 2015 - 2019 166983 13.8% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sister's Run Cow's Corner Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2014, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A supple, luscious Australian red wine blend with aromas of fleshy ripe dark berries and plums with some smoke on the finish. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2016 - 2019 346510 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Thorn-Clarke Terra Barossa Shiraz 2012, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Blackberry seduction with a hint of mint. Full-bodied, beautifully layered. Lots of acidity on the palate, slightly unbalanced. Love the savoury finish. Full-throttle red wine for those who love a big flavour experience. Smooth texture, with plush mouth-filling roundness. Will cellar well, but really, why wait? Shiraz food pairings: grilled steak in a peppercorn-mushroom sauce, pizza, bison steak, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2018 595306 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chapel Hill Shiraz 2013, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Ripe black plum and toasty oak aromas on the nose of this Australian shiraz, with an amazing acidic zing on the palate for food. Full-bodied and supple. This wine was designed for steak. Blackberry and vanilla smoke on this finish. Highly recommended. Shiraz food pairings: gourmet burgers, mutton with mint and coriander, pizza, steak. Drink: 2015 - 2020 743989 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Quails' Gate Estate Winery Chardonnay 2013, Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: Round and rich with attractive golden appear and yellow pear aromas and flavours. Almost full-bodied with a mouth-filling roundness. Pair with scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Chardonnay food pairings: turkey burgers, crab cakes, chicken breast, lobster in butter sauce, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 377770 13% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
13th Street Red Palette 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. The result? A great palette wine for your palate pleasure. Try it with grilled pork chops. Food pairings: thin-crust pizza, charcuterie, cheese boards, rustic stews, grilled veal steaks. Drink: 2015 - 2018 249458 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry of Pelham Winery Family Tree Red 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A remarkably rich and complex red wine from the Speck brothers. Aromas of smoke, black fruit and spice. Love the depth and richness here. Pair with beef. Food pairings: grilled pork ribs, steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 247882 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Angels Gate Snow Angel Riesling Icewine 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Perfect apricot ice essence of crystalline happiness preserved in a wall of glacial sculpture with fissures of silver beam acidity. Translation: a lovely rich yet refreshing icewine to pair with angel food cake or biscotti. Riesling Icewine food pairings: crème brûlée, chocolate mousse, fresh field berries in cream, apple dumplings. Drink: 2014 - 2021 733378 9.9% S 200 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. March 2016. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fielding Estate Winery Gewürztraminer 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Beautifully balanced and subtle yet highly aromatic with white florals, grapefruit, lychee and rosewater on the nose, slight sweetness of fleshy peach on the palate then finishes with a lime blossom. Medium-bodied. Perfect for Asian dishes. Gewürztraminer food pairings: lighter-flavoured sea-food dishes, Asian dishes, pork tenderloin, curried rice. Drink: 2015 - 2019 146753 12% M 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Peninsula Ridge Chardonnay 2014, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Kitchen comforting aromas of butterscotch, baking spices and apple pie. Lovely layers and richness. This winery is making great strides back to quality. Chardonnay food pairings: roast turkey, grilled pork dishes, beef bourguignon, cheese. 211490 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
13th Street Riesling 2012, Creek Shores, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: An aromatic and pleasant Niagara Riesling with notes of lime blossom and honeydew. Pair with fresh fish. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2019 431700 12% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridgepoint Merlot Ripasso 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Ripasso style offers pepper and dark spice with some black fruit and smoke. Pair with rare meats. Merlot Ripasso food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2018 270488 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Nk'mip Qwam Qwmt Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Loads of mocha and dark from generous oak aging. Some black fruit peeps out from underneath. Smooth and full-bodied. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Margherita pizza, lamb Bolognese, beef enchiladas, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 303719 14.5% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Falernia Reserva Syrah 2013, Elqui Valley, Chile: Black fruit and great depths of coffee flavour richness. Full-bodied and delicious. Great price! This cool-climate Chilean Syrah over-delivers. Pair with grilled pork chops. Syrah food pairings: rare roast beef, spice-braised lamb, chargrilled pork chop, burgers with blue cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2019 16793 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Santa Alicia Gran Reserva De Los Andes Carmenère 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: Chocolate and mint aromas on the nose with lots of black fruit, oak and tannin on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with hamburgers. Carmenère food pairings: pizza, T-bone steaks, bison burgers, tomato-based dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2017 93831 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Nativa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: A full-bodied Chilean red wine offering solid valid in the glass for this price point. Aromas of dark fruit and smoke. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Drink: 2014 - 2019 456921 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
William Fevre Espino Gran Cuvée Chardonnay 2013, Maipo Valley, Pirque, Chile: A full-bodied, creamy Chilean Chardonnay with aromas of butterscotch and pear. Match with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: pulled pork, pan fried scallops, lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2014 - 2020 45146 13.9% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Jean-Max Roger Winery Cuvée Les Caillottes Sancerre 2014, Loire A.C., France: A soft white wine with subtle acidity and white pear notes. Some lime on the finish. Clean and fresh. Pair with seafood and salads. Sancerre food pairings: salad, grilled chicken, seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2019 65573 12.6% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henriot Souverain Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Toasty, elegant, refined Champagne with great length and aromas of fresh brioche, green apple. Great value for this price. Pair with fried chicken. Champagne food pairings: Thai coconut shrimp, pasta with cheese-based sauce, lobster thermidore, sushi. Drink: 2015 - 2020 959643 13% XD 750 mL $62.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Sparr Réserve Gewurztraminer 2014, Alsace A.C., France: A terrific Alsatian white wine with classic Gewürztraminer aromas of lychee, rosewater, grapefruit and baking spice. Pair with spicy and Asian dishes. Gewurztraminer food pairings: Asian dishes, pork tenderloin, curried rice, Panko-crusted chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 747600 13.5% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Caves D'esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2014, Côtes De Provence A.C., France: Lovely pretty in pink French rosé with bone dry mouth-watering acidity. Aromas of field strawberries. Surprisingly robust for Provence which tends to be very light. Good balancing acidity and dry finish. Perfect for planked salmon. Rosé food pairings: pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, tapas featuring marinated olives and chorizo, a charcuterie platter, salmon burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2016 325076 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Foucher-Lebrun Le Petit Mont Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Val De Loire I.G.P., France: Crisp and fresh with lime zest and green apple goodness. Lots of racy acidity on the palate. Not herbal. Pair with fresh seafood and shellfish. Great value for the price. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: pan-fried freshwater fish, vegetarian dishes, Thai green curry fish, garden salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 443127 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
William Fèvre Saint-Bris 2014, Burgundy, A.C., France: Clean, green apple brightness on the nose and acidity on the palate. No oak, very refreshing. Usually white wines from Burgundy are made from the chardonnay grape, so this is a refreshing change with sauvignon blanc. There's only the one producer of this wine in Saint-Bris, about 10 miles southeast of Chablis. Finishes with wet stone, Granny Smith apple and chives. Enjoy with vegetarian dishes and seafood. Food pairings: ratatouille, grilled white fish with a lemon-dill sauce, squash soup, salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 626523 12.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Le Verger Chablis 2014, Burgundy, A.C., France: Green apple freshness and a little creaminess here on this classic Burgundian Chardonnay. No oak aging, which is the tradition in Chablis. Good mineral finish. Pair with shellfish. Chablis food pairings: seafood, shellfish, turkey pot pie, grilled chicken, pork. Drink: 2015 - 2020 181289 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Célestière Tradition 2010, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: This seductive blend of 70% Grenache and then equal parts Mourvèdre, Cinsault and other grapes is simply gorgeous! Full-bodied with classic black and dark red berries and smoke. This wine almost fumes from the glass: concentrated and deep. Drink: 2016 - 2021 247999 15% D 750 mL $47.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Mamin 2009, Graves, Bordeaux A.C., France: Very nicely balanced between the blackened fruit and toasty oak on the nose and palate of this full-bodied Bordeaux red wine at a great price for the quality. Food pairings: Muscovy duck roasted. Drink: 2016 - 2020 444281 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Du Vallier 2010, Côtes De Bordeaux A.C., France: Loaded with oak and smoke on the nose but still attractive in a warm campfire way. Black charred plums on the palate. Long finish. Pair with rare meats. Drink: 2016 - 2021 445163 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Faiveley Mercurey 2014, Burgundy A.C., France: Classic Old World Pinot Noir! Juicy and expressive with an amazingly great price. Aromas of sour cherry, wild violets and plush layers of dark berry. Medium-bodied and complex. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2016 - 2021 341925 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Famille Perrin Les Sinards 2013, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Oodles of flavour and character packed into a compact package -- this is the half bottle size of this terrific red wine from the Rhone. Lots of dark red cherry, black fleshy plum, spice and smoke. Perfect for grilled meats. Food pairings: prime rib, roast beef. Drink: 2015 - 2019 5975 14% XD 375 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Roche Dorée 2010, Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Wow, amazing value for this price point, especially for Bordeaux. Great vintage in 2010 and this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 50% and Merlot 50% grapes is produced by Catherine Doret. Decant 1-2 hours. Serve at 16-18 oC with hearty red meats. Drink: 2015 - 2019 165381 12% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Germany
St. Urbans-Hof Nik Weis Selection Urban Riesling 2014, Mosel, Germany: Apparent sweetness is balanced with fruit freshness and a beam of sunshine acidity. Pure happiness in a bottle! Light, joyous and fragrant: field flowers, fleshy white peach in a sun-dappled orchard. Off-dry with a touch of sweetness for glazed ham and curries. Riesling food pairings: Thai style grilled shrimp, roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, planked salmon. Drink: 2014 - 2019 617182 9.5% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Riesling 2014, Mosel Q.B.A., Germany: Spectacularly concentrated flavours, yet not heavy and, bonus, is light in alcohol. Yes, you can have your cake and eat it too when it comes to German Riesling. (Though pair this zesty white wine with dishes that have a touch of sweetness like glazed ham rather than dessert itself.) Glorious pleasure that could be three times the price! Ripe peach, apricot and pear with some zingy moth-watering action. Light and fresh… float away on its flavours. Riesling food pairings: beef, fish, game birds, pork, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2021 596601 10% M 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Nals Margreid Baron Salvadori Riserva Chardonnay 2012, Südtirol Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: A full-bodied, creamy, rich and generous Italian Chardonnay with aromas of butterscotch and fleshy ripe peach and pear. Match it with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled seafood, stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2020 435404 14% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tenuta Roveglia Vigne Di Catullo Lugana Riserva 2012, Lombardy, D.O.C., Italy: Fresh and intensely crisp with lime zest. Perfect for vegetarian dishes and fresh seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2019 437004 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ciacci Piccolomini D'aragona Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany, D.O.C.G., Italy: Very bitter on the mid-palate and finish, but pleasantly so, with charred black fruit, dried herbs and cigar box. Full-bodied with layers of complexity. Pair with filet mignon. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata, grilled steak. Drink: 2016 - 2022 1065 14.5% XD 750 mL $72.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Di Lenardo Pinot Grigio 2014, Venezia-Giulia, Friuli I.G.T., Italy: Lovely, crisp and refreshing Italian Pinot Grigio with delicate white floral notes and lime zest. Terrific for the price. Pair with fresh seafood. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pasta with cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, pork burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 173328 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vietti Moscato D'asti 2014, Piedmont D.O.P., Italy: Apple blossom with apricot preserves and sun-dappled apple pie cooling on an open country farm kitchen window. Try this for pure pleasure. Moscato D'asti food pairings: banana split, spice cake, crème brûlée, blue cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2018 441253 5% S 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fontanafredda Raimonda Barbera D'alba 2014, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Dark fruit and smoke on the nose of this full-bodied Italian red wine. Some grip on the palate from tannins, but this can be helped with 1-2 hours of decanting. Pair with a rare steak. Barbera D'alba food pairings: meat lovers pizza, pork tenderloin, Mexican dishes, grilled sausage. Drink: 2016 - 2019 23135 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Umberto Cesari Riserva Di Romagna Sangiovese 2012, Emilia-Romagna D.O.C., Italy: This dark and marauding red wine displays aromas of coffee, mocha, dark chocolate and espresso on the nose followed by fleshy black plums on the palate. A muscular wine, right up to the flavour punch on the finish. Umberto Cesari makes finely crafted wines from Sangiovese, a signature Italian red wine. Sangiovese food pairings: hard cheeses, pasta, salami Toscana. Drink: 2016 - 2019 33399 13% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Masi Mazzano Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2009, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A towering Italian red wine of great depth, nuance, layering and complexity. This is amarone at its best produced by a master. Aromas of black raspberry, kirsch, blackberry liqueur and tar with black spice and a deep core of concentrated pleasure. This is not for the faint of palate. Full-bodied and mouth-filling. Demands hearty meat dishes. Decant 2 hours. Great cellar candidate. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: meaty pasta, beef stew, polenta dishes, roasted venison. Drink: 2017 - 2025 215764 16% D 750 mL $101.95 Score: 96/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Umberto Cesari Liano Sangiovese Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Emilia-Romagna, Rubicone I.G.T., Italy: Mocha and sweet chocolate and coffee-espresso on the nose from lavish oak aging. Black fruit on the palate of this Italian red wine. Full-bodied and smooth and delicious. This wine previously won a Gold Medal at the Sélections Mondiales des Vins in Montreal. Try with hamburgers and all the fixins. Sangiovese Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hamburger. Drink: 2015 - 2018 225086 13.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Mannella Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany, D.O.C.G., Italy: Oddly great! Not typical for Brunello with juicier purple and black plums, less austerity and tannin (though that's there). Full-bodied and juicy with a long finish. Pair with grilled meats. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2015 - 2020 279083 14.5% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 95/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Molino Di Sant'antimo Paolus Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany, D.O.C.G., Italy: An ultra-dry Italian red wine with tanned leather and dried herbs. Not fruity: this is all bone, not flesh. Complex and meditative and smooth. Pair with juicy lamb. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata, grilled steak. Drink: 2016 - 2025 519149 14.5% XD 750 mL $77.85 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
San Felice Poggibano Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Pleasant and full-bodied with good acidity and firm tannins. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: meat pizza, grilled portobello mushroom burgers, lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin. Drink: 2016 - 2019 431171 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
I Sodi Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Balanced, full-bodied and attractive though not overly expressive. Black fruit and smoke with good acidity for tomato sauces. Chianti Classico food pairings: steak topped pizza, pasta in tomato sauce, breaded veal cutlets, cobb salad. Drink: 2015 - 2018 435123 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Luca Bosio Barbaresco 2011, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Lovely sour cherry, tanned leather and smoke aromas on the nose and palate of this mature and complex Italian red wine. Pair with lamb in rosemary. Barbaresco food pairings: barbecued leg of lamb, cheddar cheese, roasted pork loin, game birds. Drink: 2017 - 2021 437046 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Casale del Bosco Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany, D.O.C.G., Italy: Surprisingly smooth and polished tannins on this medium-bodied Brunello with enticing aromas of dried back fruit, leather, herbs and smoke. Pair with a juicy rare steak. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2016 - 2022 438572 14% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quercecchio Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany, D.O.C.G., Italy: This savoury, full-bodied northern Italian red wine offers exotic aromas of wild truffle, tanned leather, smoke and some char. Very complex and attractive. Pair with fine cuts of meat. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: hard cheese, veal piccata, grilled steak, roast leg of lamb. Drink: 2017 - 2022 438580 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Cafaggio Riserva Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Sour, tart cherry, earth and mushroom aromas on the nose of this acidic, full-bodied red wine that also finishes with sour cherry. Pair with tomato sauce dishes. Chianti Classico food pairings: roast beef, cheesy pizza, stuffed roasted turkey, breaded veal cutlets. Drink: 2016 - 2021 945196 13.4% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Lagoon Hill Tablelands Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Martinborough, North Island, New Zealand: A clean, zesty New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with aromas of freshly cut grass and gooseberry. Pair with spinach quiche. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: seafood salad, Choucroute Garnie, pasta primavera, oysters on the half shell. Drink: 2014 - 2017 388389 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Casa Do Arrabalde Avesso Alvarinho Arinto 2014, Minho, Portugal: Crisp and fresh with lime and grapefruit Mouth-watering acidity yet not harsh. Perfect for seafood, shellfish and vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 429324 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Newman's Celebrated Port, D.O.P., Portugal: A straightforward tasty dessert wine. Not for analyzing, just enjoy it. Pair with chocolate-based desserts. Port food pairings: Camembert, appetizers, pecan pie, pavlova. Drink: 2015 - 2021 134908 20% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Robertson W.O., South Africa: Fresh and crisp South African Sauvignon Blanc at a great price point. Aromas of lime and grass. This winery has been making wine since 1697. The vines are planted in the calcerous soils of the Robertson region. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: beer battered haddock and chips, vegetarian dishes, stuffed chicken breast, pasta primavera. Drink: 2014 - 2017 382085 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2012, Simonsberg-Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: A robust South African red wine blend with aromas of blackcurrant, cassis and wild blackberry with toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2020 707323 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clos Malverne Le Café Pinotage 2012, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Gorgeous nose of dried herbs, coffee, leather, smoke and dry plum. Full-bodied, but smooth and perfectly balanced. Pair with roasted meats. Pinotage food pairings: smoked spareribs, coffee-rubbed beef, grilled peppercorn steak, meat topped pizza. Drink: 2016 - 2019 666776 15% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Rioja Bordón Reserva 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Mature notes of dried fruit and cigar box and leather on the nose and palate. Finishes with spices and dusty earth. Pair with lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2020 194753 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
González Byass Cristina Oloroso Abocado Sherry, Jerez D.O., Spain: A delicate Olorso Sherry with notes of toasted nuts, dried fruit and some caramelized toffee. Not too sweet. Pair with biscotti. Sherry food pairings: cheesecake, honey cake, chocolate cookies, berry tarts. Drink: 2015 - 2019 196808 17.5% M 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bodega del Abad Crianza 2006, Bierzo D.O., Spain: Lovely mature flavours of tanned leather, violets and cigar box. Not fruity. Love this lots more than "younger" Crianzas. Somewhat like mature Rioja without the markup. The Bierzo region of Spain has recently reinvested itself and emerged as a modern producer of a very traditional grape, Mencia. This wine finished with black, mocha and spice. Try it with light curry dishes. Food pairings: lamb, curry dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2017 244699 13.6% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barón de Ley Reserva 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: An oaky, full-bodied red with notes of dark red fruit and leather. Pair with lamb and rosemary. Food pairings: barbecued corizo sausage, lamb skewers, French cheeses. Drink: 2015 - 2019 958868 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Frog's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Chalky dry Californian red wine, with enticing aromas of dark berries and cassis. Balanced and long. Elegant, not in your face. Complex, balanced and featuring a long finish. This Californian Sauvignon Blanc is produced by a winery founded in 1981 by John Williams and Larry Turley. The grapes are dry farmed and it shows here in the depth and complexity of this wine. Pair with organic beef dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, sizzling New York strip steaks, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2015 - 2021 27254 13.8% D 750 mL $83.95 Score: 92/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J. Lohr Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Paso Robles, California, United States: Chocolate, oak and smoke on the nose of this red wine with a firm tannic grip on the palate. Nice balance in this Californian Cabernet. Lots of blackberry and mocha and dark chocolate aromas. Smooth and full-bodied. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes with autumn veggies. Drink: 2013 - 2017 686584 14.9% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 87/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Gris 2014, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: A light-bodied and refreshing Oregonian white wine with notes of white pear. Pleasant aperitif and companion to light seafood dishes. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , seafood, pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2018 955038 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Chardonnay 2016, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Toasted bread along with green apple aromas on the nose and palate of this classic Californian white wine made from the icon Chardonnay grape. Medium- to full-bodied and balanced. Very tasty. This Russian River Valley Chardonnay shows its cool-climate regions roots, with the grapes being whole cluster pressed to avoid bitterness and preserve fresh fruit notes. This Chardonnay undergoes a full malolactic fermentation to add richness and depth. Pair with veal chops. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops, beef bourguignon, grilled chicken breast, veal chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 317891 13.9% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kistler Mccrea Vineyard Chardonnay 2013, Sonoma Mountain, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian white wine with classic Chardonnay aromas of green apple, peach, butterscotch and smoke. Layered and complex. Kistler is known for producing benchmark Californian Chardonnay and it shows in this example. The 2013 vintage was bottled unfiltered and unfined and therefore may leave a natural sediment in the bottle. Pair with quail or Cornish hen. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster with melted butter, barbecued pork, roast chicken, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2015 - 2022 353706 14.1% D 750 mL $120.95 Score: 94/100. March 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jonata Todos 2011, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: This superb Californian red wine offers gorgeous black fruit aromas that slip up and out of the glass in between violet notes. Plush and luxurious with full-bodied goodness. Although it’s big, it’s still in balance. Food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, sugar snap pea soup, hodge-podge. Drink: 2015 - 2020 218941 14.7% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Fleshy ripe with black cherry... doesn't taste hot even though the alcohol is 14.4% which is high for Pinot Noir especially from a cool climate region like Sonoma's Russian River Valley. That's because this wine is packed with everything: fleshy depth, complexity, and layers and length. Some spice on the finish. Pair with planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, lamb in a red wine sauce, roasted pork loin, tourtière. Drink: 2015 - 2022 119081 14.4% XD 750 mL $99.95 Score: 94/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Balanced, dry, and elegant with layered complexity and satisfaction on the palate and long finish. Mocha, espresso and blackberry are seductive. Great cellar candidate. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled portobello mushroom burgers, lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2021 189795 14.5% D 750 mL $127.00 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys 2013, Sonoma Country, California, United States: A complex and balanced Californian red with classic aromas fleshy dark fruit and spices. Wonderfully structured: perfect for diner parties involving steak. This robust wine is a blend of Zinfandel, Carignan, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Mataro (aka Mourvèdre). The 2013 vintage of Ridge's Three Valleys is richly concentrated and complex. Polished tannins with a judicious use of oak. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: zesty ribs, pulled pork, chicken wings, spaghetti, lamb shank. Drink: 2015 - 2019 652875 14.4% D 750 mL $65.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Storybook Mountain Mayacamas Range Napa Estate Zinfandel 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Chocolate and mocha with some tannic grip on the palate and acidity. Pair with meaty dishes. Zinfandel food pairings: spaghetti Bolognaise, aged cheddar, grilled lamb loin, grilled duck breast. Drink: 2015 - 2019 682989 14.9% D 750 mL $71.95 Score: 89/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Prisoner Wine Company Red 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: Very high alcohol on this wine, but it has the fruit heft to handle it. A robust, layered Californian red wine of solid structure and concentration. Pair with hamburgers or steak. Red food pairings: beef, roasted pork loin, tourtière, prime rib, coq au vin. Drink: 2016 - 2021 373076 15.2% D 1500 mL $115.95 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Loaded with mocha and chocolate from lots of oak aging. Some sweet black plum notes under the oak. Supple and full-bodied. High alcohol at 15.5%. Pair with T-Rex burgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, roast leg of lamb, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2015 - 2019 405209 15.5% D 750 mL $100.00 Score: 91/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Brandlin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United States: This full-bodied Californian Cabernet has a strong tannic grip on the palate and needs cellar time. Notes of dark fruit and toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops, rosemary lamb. Drink: 2016 - 2026 340513 14.5% D 750 mL $159.00 Score: 90/100. March 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Shafer Merlot 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: So elegant, august, complex and balanced. If I had zillions, I'd drink this wine daily. I’ve long been a fan of this aristocratic red wine from Napa. This wine comes off as beautifully polished, structured and elegant, and is a blend of 17% Cabernet Sauvignon; 7% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, fig, smoke and leather, it’s a classic. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with hanger steak. Merlot food pairings: rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, beef. Drink: 2016 - 2023 346262 15.3% D 750 mL $94.95 Score: 93/100. March 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart