Argentina
Zuccardi Q Malbec 2013, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A fleshy ripe malbec with a touch of dark spice on the finish. Full-bodied and smooth. Great price for such quality. This wine was matured in French oak for 1 year. Lovely cedar and spice on the finish. Try it tonight with asado, the traditional Argentine outdoor barbecue, usually with beef. Malbec food pairings: turkey, tomato sauces, meaty casseroles, hamburgers, steak and kidney pie. Drink: 2015 - 2019 723478 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Colomé Torrontes 2015, Calchaqui Valley, Salta, Mendoza, Argentina: Torrontes, Argentina's best-known white grape, reaches its most poignant expression in high altitude vineyards planted at 1700 to 3100 metres above sea level which creates a unique micro-climate. Love the honey blossom spicy mix with grapefruit peel here in this exotic Argentine white wine, with medium body, and a great price. The aromatic Torrontes grape finishes with peach blossom and nectarine. A perfect wine to pair with Mexican or Tex-Mex dishes with some heat or spice. Torrontes food pairings: spicy dishes and curries, salads, seafood, shellfish, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2016 - 2019 357913 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Cobos Felino Chardonnay 2015, Mendoza, Argentina: Grapes are grown in the Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo appellation of the Mendoza wine region. Golden-yellow highlights in the glass. Just 20% of the fermenting juice gets oak contact. Great balance and elegance in this Argentine Chardonnay, with pleasant green apple and toasted almond finish. Full-bodied and luscious. Pair with crab cakes. This winery is co-owned by the esteemed California producer Paul Hobbs, Andrea Marchiori and Luis Barraud. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood. Drink: 2016 - 2019 191915 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: A many-layered, multi-faceted wine with great complexity and classic aromas of cassis, blackberry, blackcurrant, coffee and wood spice. Grapes were grown in vineyards that ranged from 940 meters above sea level to 1180 meters. Aged 18 months in new French oak. Full-bodied with great length; elegant and balanced. You'll find my feature story on Catena, and a visit with Nicolas Catena that was part of my second book, Unquenchable. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued and grilled meats, game, chicken salad, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2016 - 2020 959965 14% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fabre Montmayou Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Lujan De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied and pleasant Argentine Cabernet, with Bordeaux leanings and styling in its balance, elegance and restraint. Aromas of black fruit with balanced use of oak. Good price. Pair with rare steak. The 2014 vintage of this Argentine Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon sources grapes from the region of Lujan de Cuyo. Lots of hearty black fruit aromas, smoke and tannin. Decant 2 hours. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 261891 14.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Zuccardi Emma Bonarda 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A robust Argentine wine made form the country's lesser-known bonarda grape. Aromas of dark plums and smoke with racy acidity for grilled meats. Bonarda food pairings: roast chicken, pork tenderloin stuffed with dried fig and apricot, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2017 - 2021 477372 14% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fabre Montmayou Barrel Selection Malbec 2014, Patagonia, Argentina: A robust Argentine Cabernet with blackened fruit aromas and flavours and lots of toasty oak. Finishes with vanilla spice. Pair with game dishes. Malbec food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse. Drink: 2016 - 2019 477364 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Altaland Histórico 2015, Mendoza, Argentina Food pairings: roast rabbit in wild leek and mushroom sauce, beef tenderloin in red wine sauce, venison strip loin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 477323 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Cobos Felino Malbec 2015, Mendoza, Argentina: The Malbec grapes for this elegant red wine are selected from several mountain vineyards in the Uco Valley and Lujan de Cuyon districts of the Mendoza wine region that are planted at altitudes of 2,300 and 3,800 feet above sea level. The cool nights high on the mountainside where the vines for this wine are planted provide a lively, vibrant balance for this full-bodied wine that is redolent of blackberry and black cherry. Terrific smoky finish with a lingering note of dried herbs. Finishes with attractive black fruit and minerality. Polished tannins. Pair with prime rib. This unfiltered Argentine red wine is produced by the renowned Californian winemaking consultant Paul Hobbs. Malbec food pairings: beef, turkey, tomato sauces, hamburgers, spaghetti and meat balls. Drink: 2016 - 2020 118067 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Colomé Estate Malbec 2013, Calchaqui Valley, Salta, Argentina Malbec food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 477315 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Benmarco Expresivo 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied, vibrant Argentine red wine made a robust blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and some Malbec grapes. Fine polished tannins and deep minerality. A terrific representation of Uco Valley terroir. The viticulturist is Edy del Popolo, also winemaker. Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2020 263517 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Susana Balbo Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Robust and savoury with blackberry and wild cassis. Firm tannic grip. A great value. Pair with a rare steak. Dominio del Plata produces this blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and 5% Merlot grown at 1,160 metres above sea level. The wine was aged for 13 months in 80% new French oak barrels and 20% second use French oak. Winemaker Susana Balbo has been unofficially dubbed the "Evita of Wine" in her native Argentina. She had been making superb wine for 25 years as a winemaking consultant before establishing her own winery, Dominio del Plata, in 1999. The Signature line of wines are her premium portfolio. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Margherita pizza, barbecued ribs in sauce, New York strip loin, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 260919 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Colomé Torrontes 2016, Calchaqui Valley, Salta, Mendoza, Argentina Torrontes food pairings: spicy dishes and curries, salads, seafood, shellfish, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2016 - 2019 357913 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Colomé Estate Malbec 2015, Calchaqui Valley, Salta, Argentina Malbec food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 477315 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Penfolds Bin 2 Shiraz Mataro 2014, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied Australian red wine blend of traditional Rhone varieties: Shiraz (about 90%) and Mourvèdre (about 10%) grapes with terrific structure and depth. Judicious use of oak wraps around blackberries and some dark spice notes. The wine was aged in second use American oak barrels. A pleasantly long, dry finish. Another classic red from Australia. Perfect for grilled meats: smooth yet robust. Finishes with dark fruits, pepper and spice. Pair with braised meats or stew. Shiraz Mataro food pairings: veal, roast chicken, venison stew. Drink: 2017 - 2022 468629 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Forester Cabernet Merlot 2013, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia Cabernet Merlot food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, smoked ham and split pea soup. Drink: 2017 - 2021 480152 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Monterra Loonie Wine Shiraz 2014, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia Shiraz food pairings: grilled pork ribs, steak, hard cheeses. Drink: 2017 - 2022 477059 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Black Chook Shiraz Viognier 2014, Mclaren Vale, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Aromas of blackberry preserves, blackcurrant jam lusciousness with some mint. Layers and layers and layers of pleasure. Eyes closed kinda wine. Some violets and cedar on this finish. Highly recommended. Loaded with fleshy ripe dark berries and vanilla spice from toasty oak aging. Good mouth-watering acidity on the palate leads to a clean finish. Pair with a juicy steak. Shiraz Viognier food pairings: chicken pieces in creamy gravy, rosemary lamb, pepper steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 66738 14.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
The Tragically Hip Fully Completely Grand Reserve 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2017 411595 13.5% D 750 mL $24.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Inniskillin Cabernet Franc Icewine 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A gloriously rich and layered Niagara icewine made from the Cabernet Franc grape, thus the lovely ruby hue. Aromas and flavours of field strawberries and cherries. Pair with dark chocolate especially if it has a raspberry swirl through the core. Yum! Cabernet Franc Icewine food pairings: French vanilla ice-cream, raspberry and custard tarte, fresh berry fruit salad. Drink: 2017 - 2022 149963 9.5% S 200 mL $42.95 Score: 92/100. January 2017. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosewood Select Series Merlot 2013, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Full-bodied Niagara Merlot that's savoury and juicy and loaded with delectable fleshy black plum flavours. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2018 211896 13.9% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Featherstone's Black Sheep Riesling stands shoulder to shoulder (ear to ear) with the best of Niagara Rieslings. This is one of my favourite Niagara Rieslings: delightful every vintage. The 2015 vintage is no exception with lovely bright notes of lime blossom, lemon zest and flint. Pair with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. This Ontario white wine offers great refreshment in the glass. Riesling food pairings: chicken tikka masala, potato and cauliflower yellow curry, vegetable coconut curry. Drink: 2017 - 2020 80234 10% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. January 2017. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Tragically Hip Ahead By a Century Chardonnay 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Chardonnay food pairings: pan-fried freshwater fish, fish tacos, grilled chicken breast. Drink: 2017 - 2019 483875 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rockway Vineyards Unoaked Chardonnay 2015, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Unoaked Chardonnay food pairings: pan-fried freshwater fish, fish tacos, Poorboy oysters. Drink: 2017 - 2019 483891 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vineland Estates Gewürztraminer 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, floral, aromatic Niagara white wine made from the Gewürztraminer grapes. Aromas of lavender, lilies, baking spice, lychee and rosewater. Medium-bodied with good acidity for curries and spicy dishes. Gewürztraminer food pairings: grilled chicken breast with peach and apricot coulis, seafood hotpot, mild vegetable curries. Drink: 2017 - 2019 434779 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Inniskillin Cabernet Franc Icewine 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Franc Icewine food pairings: French vanilla ice-cream, raspberry and custard tarte, fresh berry fruit salad. Drink: 2017 - 2022 149963 9.5% S 200 mL $42.95 January 2017. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Santa Alicia Millantu 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile Food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borscht. Drink: 2016 - 2019 469288 14% D 750 mL $24.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Primus Alto De Casablanca Carmenere 2013, Colchagua Valley, Chile: A lovely expression of Colchagua Valley terroir. This is a terrific, full-bodied Chilean red wine made from the country's signature red wine grape Carmenere. Carmenere is believed to have traveled from Bordeaux, where it was one of the six original grape varieties planted there before the devastation from the root louse Phylloxera in 1867 wiped out all the vines. Chile's natural protections from this vine louse include the ocean, the Andes mountains and the dessert. Carmenere is named for it's colour - crimson (carmin). It has some similarities with Merlot but is not the same grape. Aromas of dark red fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled pork chops. Carmenere food pairings: wine-braised beef, turkey with gravy, chorizo tacos, bean fajitas. Drink: 2016 - 2019 439356 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Vintage Brut Champagne 2006, Champagne A.C., France: A superb Champagne of the first order. Toasty, creamy and now showing very mature notes of hazelnuts and dried herbs. Champagne food pairings: oysters on the half-shell, lobster salad, crab cakes. Drink: 2017 - 2018 411793 12.5% XD 750 mL $95.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J.L. Chave Sélection Offerus Saint-Joseph 2013, Rhone A.C., France Food pairings: gourmet pizza, hard cheeses, rare grilled steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 359109 13.5% D 750 mL $39.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Ernest Descombes Gamay 2012, Morgon, Burgundy A.C., France: Terrific aromas of black cherry and pepper on the nose. The palate is fleshy and rich and mouth-filling. Don't confuse this wine with Beaujolais nouveau: there's far more depth and complexity here. Perfect for movie night. Lots of mouth-watering acidity for a wide range of dishes from salmon to roast chicken and turkey. Gamay food pairings: turkey, hamburgers, pizza. Drink: 2016 - 2018 946186 13.5% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave Vinicole Du Vieil Armand Riesling 2015, Alsace A.C., France Riesling food pairings: mild vegetable curries, shellfish, grilled chicken breast. Drink: 2017 - 2019 205807 13% D 750 mL $19.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ferraton Père & Fils Samorens 2014, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Wild black cherry and cedar underbrush in this feral red wine from southern France in the heart of the Rhone Valley. Full-bodied and smooth. A cedary, smoky southern French red wine, with ripe fleshy dark berry aromas. Love this style of Rhone! It’s so interesting and lip-smacking delicious with each sip; you don’t tire of it. It also pairs with many hearty meat dishes. Amazing value and complexity here. Finishes with savoury notes of bacon, dried herbs and cedar forest. Decant for 1-2 hours and enjoy with pepperoni pizza, especially at this phenomenal price. Perfect for roast beef. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 168708 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gassier Sables D'azur Rosé 2015, Côtes De Provence A.P., France: Lovely balance in this light-bodied rose that's packed with fresh field strawberry aromas. Bone-dry and refreshing. Finishes with white pepper. Pair with cold chicken sandwiches. Rosé food pairings: wine-braised duck, grilled goose breast in cherry wine sauce, duck breasts with bacon and onions. Drink: 2015 - 2017 33621 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Rosé Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Ernest Descombes Gamay 2013, Morgon, Burgundy A.C., France Gamay food pairings: turkey, hamburgers, pizza. Drink: 2016 - 2018 946186 13.5% D 750 mL $25.95 January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Ernest Descombes Gamay 2015, Morgon, Burgundy A.C., France Gamay food pairings: turkey, hamburgers, pizza. Drink: 2016 - 2018 946186 13.5% D 750 mL $25.95 January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Le Grand Ballon Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Val De Loire, Loire I.G.P., France Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: pan-fried freshwater fish, fish tacos, smoked oysters. Drink: 2017 - 2018 469593 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.00 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Des Aladères Sélection Vieilles Vignes 2013, Corbières, Midi, South West A.C., France: Huge, dense, ripe blackberry and black plum fruit aromas on the nose with some liqueur-like richness and smoke. Wonderfully concentrated for the price. Demands brontosaurus burgers. Growl. This 2013 vintage of this Sélection Vieilles Vignes (old vines) is a southern French red wine blend of 45% Carignan, 35% Grenache and 20% Syrah grapes. The wine was aged for 12 months in stainless steel tanks. Fermentation took 15 days with selected yeasts. Also pair with stuffed mushrooms, eggplant, sundried tomatoes and croustade of lamb. Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 431726 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Larose-Trintaudon 2012, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: A terrific Bordeaux from the strong 2012 vintage! This wine was aged French oak barrels for 12 months. Mocha and dark chocolate on the nose of this robust Bordeaux red wine from the Left Bank of the Gironde River. Fleshy black plums on the palate. Decant 1 hour. This full-bodied red wine is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot from the excellent 2012 vintage. Pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: turkey, roast breast of veal, prime rib. Drink: 2016 - 2022 297945 13% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Camus Elegance Xo Cognac, Cognac A.C., France Cognac food pairings: fruit cake, orange cake with dark chocolate icing, fresh fruit salad. Drink: 2017 - 2027 79285 40% D 700 mL $216.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vincent Couche Sensation Champagne 1997, Champagne A.C., France Champagne food pairings: fresh steamed shellfish, lobster bisque, crab cakes. Drink: 2017 - 2018 403006 12.5% XD 750 mL $75.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Marchand-Tawse Bourgogne Chardonnay 2014, Burgundy A.C., France: Lovely richness, balance and vibrancy in this Old World Burgundian Chardonnay. This is a collaboration between French vigeron Marchand and the Niagara winery Tawse. Toasted almond and hazelnut on the nose. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood, oysters on the half shell with strawberry mignonette. Drink: 2017 - 2021 414557 12.5% XD 750 mL $29.25 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Pitray 2012, Côtes De Castillon, Bordeaux A.C., France Food pairings: wine-braised beef, turkey with gravy, chorizo sausage. Drink: 2016 - 2019 468249 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Max Roger Winery Cuvee C.M. Sancerre 2014, Loire A.C., France: Lots of racy acidity on the palate of this crisp white wine. Clean and fresh with lemon sunshine in this Old World Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. Signature Sancerre. Perfect for seafood and shellfish. Fresh and crisp with lots of minerality in this Loire Sauvignon Blanc. Sancerre food pairings: freshwater fish, seafood, shellfish, goat cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2019 196667 12.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De La Vieille Cure Sur Lie Muscadet Sèvre & Maine 2015, Loire A.C., France Muscadet Sèvre & Maine food pairings: steamed mussels in their own juice, sauteed shrimp in white wine sauce, oysters on the half shell. Drink: 2017 - 2019 469775 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Poulet & Fils Tradition Clairette De Die, Rhone A.C., France Clairette De Die food pairings: fresh steamed shellfish, lobster bisque, crab cakes. Drink: 2017 - 2018 460758 13% D 750 mL $19.25 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Durieu Châteauneuf-Du-Pape 2014, Rhone A.C., France: The 2014 vintage of this blockbuster Châteauneuf du Pape is a blend of mainly Grenache grapes along with 10% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre, with some minor bits of other grapes. Robust and towering southern French red wine from the heart of the Rhone Valley, with black and dark red raspberry and blackberry aromas. Violets, anise and dark spices on the palate with a velvet smooth texture and ultra-long finish. Perfect dinner party wine or gift wine. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Will cellar well. Châteauneuf-Du-Pape food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2022 320168 15% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
J.L. Chave Sélection Offerus Saint-Joseph Syrah Shiraz 2014, Rhone A.C., France Syrah Shiraz food pairings: gourmet pizza, hard cheeses, rare grilled steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 359109 13.5% D 750 mL $39.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Peyros Cabernet Franc Tannat 2011, Madiran, South West A.C., France: Tanned leather and black fruit with a good grip on this full-bodied red wine. Great price. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. The quality designation for this wine is AC. This is a robust southern French red wine blend of 60% Tannat and 40% Cabernet grapes, both offering lots of tannic grip on the palate. Aromas of black raspberry, liquorice and clove-spice. Cabernet Franc Tannat food pairings: rare grilled meats, game dishes. Drink: 2016 - 2019 208249 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Greece
Lykos Winery Pop Art 2014, Evia, Central Greece P.G.I., Greece Food pairings: wine-braised beef, roast baron of beef, chorizo sausage. Drink: 2017 - 2020 913763 14% XD 750 mL $12.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Antinori Pian Delle Vigne Brunello Di Montalcino 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Tanned leather, cigar box and dried tobacco: lovely tertiary aromas of a mature wine that has bouquet not just aroma. I would drink now (because I'm a hedonist) but I suppose you could wait. But why really. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata.. Drink: 2013 - 2020 651141 14% D 750 mL $81.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
14 Rosso Toscana Igt Athos Corte Medicea (Bollina) 2014, Tuscany, Italy 475996 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Corte Majoli Tezza Amarone Della Valpolicella 2011, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: This Amarone is a little past peak with the fruit drying out, however there is still some life left. Pair with hearty meat dishes, such as roast beef and brisket. Amarone Della Valpolicella food pairings: grilled steak, tortellini, rich tomato sauce and pasta. Drink: 2016 - 2019 81943 15.5% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 87/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Pieve Barolo 2012, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: This full-bodied red wine offers enticing aromas of bitter dark fruit, tar, toasty and spice. Barolo wines are rarely priced this affordably, so give this Piedmont, Nebbiolo-based grape wine a try. The tannins are huge and there will be plenty of fruit here to bring balance. A real gripper but I like it! Big, black with a tarry streak through the middle. Black cherry resistance and some dark spices. Perfect for black magic nights. Barolo wines are great candidates for the cellar given their aging ability. Piedmont's Nebbiolo grapes provide firm tannins that support this character. The 2012 vintage was a warm one. Barolo food pairings: beef stew, roast pheasant, prime rib. Drink: 2016 - 2022 213132 14.5% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Banfi Rosso Di Montalcino 2014, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: Very dry with mostly earth and smoke... Not a lot of fruit here yet it's not thin. Good acidity for food such as tomato sauce and pasta. Rosso Di Montalcino food pairings: wine-braised beef, turkey with gravy, chorizo tacos, bean fajitas. Drink: 2016 - 2020 681262 14% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vigneti Zabu Impari Nero D'avola 2011, Sicily I.G.T., Italy Nero D'avola food pairings: grilled pork ribs, steak, hard cheeses. Drink: 2016 - 2019 477968 14% XD 750 mL $36.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gran Passione Rosso 2015, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Dark berries on the nose with sweet chocolate and mocha flavours on the palate of this smooth, full-bodied Italian red wine. Intense purple violet tints in the glass. Polished tannins. Vanilla spice sweetness on the finish. Pair with game dishes. Rosso food pairings: veal Parmigiano, rich lentil and tomato stew, bbq prime ribs. Drink: 2017 - 2022 410704 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Cappuccina Pinot Grigio 2015, Veneto I.G.T., Italy Pinot Grigio food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood hot pot, Poorboy oysters. Drink: 2015 - 2017 362434 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.00 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Guicciardini Strozzi Villa Cusona Vernaccia Di San Gimignano 2015, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A crisp Italian white wine made from the Vernaccia di San Gimignano grape. Notes of white grapefruit and lime. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Vernaccia Di San Gimignano food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2017 172726 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 85/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
San Marzano Vindoro Negroamaro 2012, Salento, Puglia I.G.T., Italy: This superb Italian 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. Wow. The Jonata Todos Red is a blend of 63% Syrah, 12% Sangiovese, 11% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and smaller amounts of Grenache, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Pair with roast beef. Negroamaro food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, sugar snap pea soup, hodge-podge, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2017 - 2022 473181 14.9% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rocca Di Montemassi Le Focaie Sangiovese 2014, Maremma, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: The Italian wine region of Maremma is situated on the southwest coastal area of Tuscany. With its gorgeous landscape, it's one of the most popular destinations for Italians when vacationing. This terrific red wine features aromas of dark fruit, violets and smoke. Lovely medium-bodied wine with a smooth texture. Mouth-watering acidity makes it an excellent partner to many Italian dishes Sangiovese food pairings: Tuscan food like Stracotto (slow-braised beef), Pecorino Toscana cheese, pasta with tomato sauce, lasagne. Drink: 2016 - 2020 31005 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cantele Primitivo 2015, Salento, Puglia I.G.T., Italy Primitivo food pairings: roast leg of lamb, beef tenderloin in red wine sauce, venison strip loin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 473165 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Basciano Chianti Rufina 2013, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A pleasant, supple, almost full-bodied Italian red wine with attractive aromas of mocha and dark berries. Some toasty oak on the finish. Pair with grilled hamburgers. Chianti Rufina food pairings: grilled steak, tortellini, rich tomato sauce and pasta. Drink: 2017 - 2020 68163 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Michele Chiarlo Le Marne Gavi 2015, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: White peach and Asian pear on the nose of this vibrant Italian white wine. The Italian wine region of Gavi is in the southeast part of Piedmont and features Cortese grape vines planted on hillsides in calcareous-marl soil that is the reason for the name “Le Marne.” This white wine is made 100% Cortese grapes. Finishes with notes of green apple, anise and lime. Pair with creamy cheeses or grilled prawns. White floral nose then lime acidity on the palate to wake up your taste buds in this vibrant Italian white wine. Medium-bodied, clean and crisp. Also enjoy as an aperitif. A vibrant citrus finish. Pair with halibut or sole. Gavi food pairings: creamy cheese, shellfish, seafood salads. Drink: 2016 - 2018 228528 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Planeta Noto Nero D'avola 2012, Sicily D.O.C., Italy Nero D'avola food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borscht. Drink: 2016 - 2020 477190 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bibbiano Chianti Classico 2013, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy Chianti Classico food pairings: breaded veal chops, spaghetti and meatballs, vegetarian lasagne. Drink: 2014 - 2017 168286 14% D 750 mL $23.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Spy valley Envoy Outpost Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012, Omaka Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Candied cherry and baking spices on the nose and palate of this almost full-bodied New Zealand red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. Pair with grilled lamb. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger. Drink: 2016 - 2018 465872 14% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 88/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spy Valley Chardonnay 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A reliable and robust Chardonnay with notes of green apple, butter, vanilla spice and peach. Matured 10 months in French oak barrels. Good balance and length. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled halibut steaks, lemon sole in white sauce. Drink: 2016 - 2019 57737 13% D 750 mL $23.00 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Babich Black Label Pinot Noir 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A lovely, juicy New Zealand Pinot Noir with classic cool-climate aromas of tart cherry and spice. Pair with grilled chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: mint and thyme lamb chops, lamb shish kebab, lamb stew. Drink: 2017 - 2025 465963 14% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dashwood Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, bouillabaisse, poached salmon in white wine sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2018 465989 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Beyra Vinhos De Altitude 2014, Beira Interior D.O.C., Portugal: A pleasant, full-bodied Portuguese red wine blend with notes of black fruit and oak. Pair with hamburgers. Food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borscht. Drink: 2015 - 2017 408120 13% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 86/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lagar De Darei 2012, Dão D.O.C., Portugal Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2019 477265 14% D 750 mL $13.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Album Reserva 2013, Alentejano V.R., Portugal Food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, ham and pea soup. Drink: 2017 - 2020 616945 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quinta Da Romeira Principium Merlot Touriga Nacional 2012, Lisboa V.R., Portugal Merlot Touriga Nacional food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borscht. Drink: 2016 - 2020 479329 14% D 750 mL $13.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Casa de Cambres Reserva 2009, Douro D.O.C., Portugal Food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse. Drink: 2016 - 2019 470377 14% D 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quinta Do Portal Frontaria 2014, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: Full-bodied, and loaded with oak on the nose along with black fruit aromas, mocha, espresso flavours. This wine was aged in French oak barrels. Perfect for a pepper steak. This is a robust red wine blend of classic Portuguese grapes: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Touriga National. Decant 1-2 hours. Food pairings: meat lover's pizza, hard cheeses, rare grilled steak. Drink: 2016 - 2020 324533 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Rustenberg Wines Merlot 2014, Simonsberg-Stellenbosch W.O, South Africa: Savoury and meaty with mouth-watering acidity that's perfect for roast beef and brisket. Fleshy black plums and blackberry. Absolutely delicious! The 2014 vintage of this South African Merlot is aged in 55% French new oak barrels. Lots of black pepper and dark plums on the palate. Merlot food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borscht. Drink: 2016 - 2020 404194 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stone Town Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Darling, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: pan-fried trout, fish tacos, smoked fish. Drink: 2016 - 2017 456012 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Honoro Vera Juan Gill Monastrell 2015, Jumilla D.O., Spain: Fleshy ripe black and purple plums and blueberries on the nose and palate of this smooth, full-bodied Spanish red wine. Pair with barbecued sweet ribs. This Spanish red wine is made from 100% Monastrell grapes grown on low bush vines planted in poor limestone soils. There are low yields due to these impoverished soils and extreme weather. Polished tannins. The Spanish winery of Juan Gil was established in 1916 in the region of Jumilla, known for its red wines made from the Monastrell grape, which is called Mourvèdre in France. Monastrell food pairings: breaded veal chops, cheesy pizza, barbequed ribs. Drink: 2016 - 2020 167684 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cvne Imperial Reserva 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain Food pairings: bison burgers, venison strip loin, rabbit stew. Drink: 2016 - 2019 424390 14% D 750 mL $38.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Espelt Viticultors Old Vines Grenache 2015, Empordà D.O., Spain Grenache food pairings: roast partridge, roast breast of veal, bison burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2022 422469 14% D 750 mL $14.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Don Jacobo Reserva 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Savoury dried herbs and tanned leather on the nose of this mature Spanish red wine, along with dried red fruit and smoke. Very attractive and drinking at its peak if you love mature wines like I do. Pair with a savoury, juicy lamb dish garnished with rosemary. Food pairings: roast turkey and all the trimmings, prime rib, pork roast. Drink: 2014 - 2017 313270 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Borsao Crianza 2013, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain Food pairings: roast leg of lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 472563 14% D 750 mL $15.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Sterling Vineyards Oak Knoll Chardonnay 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: A lovely, balanced Californian Chardonnay with aromas of green apple and toast. Pair with grilled chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken breast with peach and apricot coulis, seafood hotpot, mild vegetable, peach and mango curry. Drink: 2017 - 2019 478891 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Leese-Fitch Chardonnay 2014, California, United States Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood hot pot, grilled chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2019 478826 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sextant Zinfandel 2013, Central Coast, California, United States: A juicy, plush, berry-rich Californian Zinfandel with purple plums on the finish. The winery is named for the Old World navigational instrument that used the sun, stars and horizon to chart a course on open water. The vines are planted in the arid, rocky soils of Monterey County, just north of Paso Robles. The chalky soils yield intense berry flavours. Pair with barbecued meats. Drink: 2014 - 2018 478933 14.8% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Lodi, California, United States: A richly concentrated California Cabernet with ripe dark fruit and balanced toasty oak. Supple, smooth and full-bodied. Mocha and dark chocolate on the finish. Perfect with a juicy steak this evening. This California red wine has a respectable quality-price-ratio. Pair with barbecued meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued chicken, spare ribs in a sweet-and smoky sauce, pork, hodge podge, salad. Drink: 2015 - 2018 537597 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
H3 Columbia Crest Merlot 2013, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: The difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures in this eastern Washington state wine region is the reason why Merlots like this one are terrific. In October, during the last weeks of the key ripening season before harvest the nighttime temperature can plummet from 35 degrees in the day to just 20 degrees at night which allows for ripening during the day but then the grapes stop in the night and preserve freshness and natural acidity. The great thing is that the grapes don't get over-ripe as in some warm climates where photosynthesis produces more sugar and therefore more alcohol. That's why Washington red wines are often a moderate 13% alcohol. This wine features aromas of dark spice, fleshy blackberry and smoke. Pair with roast beef. Merlot food pairings: grilled pork chops, pepper steak, duck, grilled lamb, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2019 209874 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cabpothesis Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Lodi, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rare rib roast, beef tenderloin in red wine sauce, venison strip loin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 26826 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Primarius Pinot Noir 2014, Oregon, United States: Tart berries and spices on the nose and palate of this Oregonian red wine made from the state's iconic Pinot Noir grape. Supple, smooth and medium-bodied. Pair with grilled pork chops. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops, stuffed roast breast of veal, lamb stew. Drink: 2017 - 2020 402180 13.7% D 750 mL $29.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bogle Winery Essential 2014, California, United States: A rich Californian red wine blend with aromas of mocha and coffee from toasty oak aging plus dark fleshy ripe fruit on the palate and finish. Perfect for grilled meats. Food pairings: turkey, roast breast of veal, prime rib. Drink: 2016 - 2020 394452 13.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Barton Distilling 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, Kentucky, United States Bourbon Whiskey food pairings: apple pie and vanilla ice cream, crème caramel, pork roast glazed with maple syrup. Drink: 2017 - 2027 208918 47% D 750 mL $49.95 January 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ironstone Chardonnay 2015, Lodi, California, United States: Classically made Californian Chardonnay with balance and finesse, but it also reveals lip-smacking delicious flavours of green apple and butterscotch. The winemaking Kautz family was first to plant Chardonnay grapes in Lodi and that experience with the varietal shows. There's a crisp, refreshing finish. Crack it open tonight. Finishes with fleshy ripe tropical fruit flavours and toast. Almost full-bodied, lots of oak and butter with some peach fruit. Pair with roast chicken. This Californian from Ironstone is a consistent Chardonnay year after year. Pair with tuna steaks. The Ironstone Chardonnay is matured for 5 months in French oak barrels giving it a toasty finish. Chardonnay food pairings: pasta, shellfish, chicken breast, barbecued pork. Drink: 2016 - 2019 355776 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. January 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart