Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
www.nataliemaclean.com

Vintages Release April 24, 2017

Login to see Natalie's scores and notes

Reviewed Wines | All Wines | Group by Wine Type | Group by Country/Region

Increase Font Size | Decrease Font Size


Argentina

Catena Appellation Agrelo Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Agrelo, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied with black fruit. Supple. A bit short on the finish. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rare roast beef, grilled flat iron steak, lamb tangine. Drink: 2017 - 2020 484303 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trapiche Finca Las Palmas Chardonnay 2015, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Rich, round and luscious Chardonnay with terrific balancing acidity for roast chicken. A supple, full-bodied Argentine Chardonnay offering remarkable value and quality for this price point. Aromas of butterscotch and toasty oak with fleshy ripe pear and peach notes. Match this with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: Asian dishes, crab cakes, pan-fried cod, toasted ravioli in Alfredo sauce, chicken cordon bleu. Drink: 2017 - 2019 355610 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Catena Appellation Paraje Altamira Malbec 2014, Mendoza, Argentina Malbec food pairings: grilled game meats, meatball stew in wild mushroom sauce, gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2017 - 2020 492413 14.2% XD 750 mL $22.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chakana Estate Selection 2014, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: The vines for this robust wine are planted at 1300 metres above sea level. Black fruit with loads of smoke from oak aging. Big and brooding Argentine red wine. Food pairings: beef, hamburgers, fajitas, lamburgers. Drink: 2017 - 2021 322602 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Heartland Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Black at heart and soul; gotta love this big Aussie Cabernet. Hails from a cool climate yet rich in flavour. A massive, towering wine with full-on flavour and character. This full-bodied Australian red wine is made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which tend to offer more structure and balance than other red grapes. Finishes with smoke, dried herbs and fleshy black fruit. Decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with grilled ribs tonight. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, roast leg of lamb and root vegetables, barbecued pork spareribs, veal chops. Drink: 2017 - 2022 58099 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dutschke Gods Hill Road Neighbours Shiraz 2013, Lyndoch, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A juicy and mouth-watering Australian red wine with attractive with lusciously rich black fruit flavours. Pair with a pepper steak. Shiraz food pairings: prime rib, hearty meat stews, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 247296 14.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Glaetzer Wines Bishop Shiraz 2015, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Charred blackened fruit with loads of oak from lavish oak barrel aging on this robust Australian red wine made form the Shiraz grape. Not a lot of structure but delicious nonetheless. Serve this with char-grilled meats for backbone. Shiraz food pairings: game meats, rare roast beef, spice-braised lamb, burgers with blue cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 627869 15% XD 750 mL $44.00 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Turkey Flat Butcher's Block 2014, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Smoky and toasty from lavish oak aging. This full-bodied and delicious Australian red wine blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvèdre (GSM). Aromas of fleshy black plum and berry. Round and smooth and mouth-filling. Portions of these grapes grow on some of the Barossa Valley's oldest vines. Pair with a pepper steak. Food pairings: grilled red meats, roast chicken, stir fried pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 90241 14% XD 750 mL $21.25 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lionheart Of The Barossa Shiraz 2014, South Australia, Barossa, Australia: This full-bodied red wine has lip-smacking delicious aromas and flavours of black and purple fruit. Smooth and supple. Love the fact that this big shiraz is not filtered, giving us the full-on flavour experience. Try is with lamb and rosemary. Shiraz food pairings: potato, chickpea and lentil green curry, spaghetti with clams, mussels and bay scallops, saffron potato cakes. Drink: 2016 - 2022 167189 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2014, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Concentrated pleasure with dark depths of fleshy black plums and blackberry fruit. Chary black fruit and loads of toasty oak. What a package, especially for this price. Winemaker Elena Brooks apparently wears steel cap work boots every day but carries a pair of high heels in case of "emergencies" (you go girl!). Pair with t-rex burgers. Shiraz food pairings: rare roast beef, grilled pork chops, blue cheeses. Drink: 2016 - 2020 269464 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Stratus Red 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A glorious Niagara red wine blend from a much-respected winery in a spectacular vintage: the perfect (good) storm comes together in a glass. Aromas of cassis, black currant and wild blackberry with some clove-spice on the finish. Great cellar wine. Pair with rare meats. Drink: 2015 - 2021 131037 13.8% D 750 mL $44.20 Score: 92/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Game Changer The Visionary White 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: linguine with clams and fennel, stuffed roasted turkey, Asian dishes, grilled seafood. Drink: 2017 - 2018 485607 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wildass Stratus Vineyards Riesling 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This lovely, light-bodied white wine offers enticing peach and melon notes, with just enough mouth-watering action for a wide range of dishes. Great balance, nice price. Riesling food pairings: light vegetarian curries, sauteed Thai prawns, smoked salmon roll on crackers. Drink: 2017 - 2019 129700 11.6% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Burnt Ship Bay Vidal Icewine 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Vidal Icewine food pairings: apple tarte, pear and onion galette, creamy cheeses with berry compote. Drink: 2014 - 2025 485573 10.1% S 200 mL $22.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tzafona Cellars Cold Climate Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Tourtière, roast beef, roasted venison. Drink: 2017 - 2021 493981 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Cabernet Icewine 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Icewine food pairings: Fresh berry tarte and custard cream, chocolate ganache cake. Drink: 2017 - 2025 346692 9.5% S 375 mL $75.00 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Foreign Affair Winery Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken with lemon and honey thyme, smoked whitefish with mango relish, oyster pot pie. Drink: 2017 - 2018 149211 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ridgepoint Wines Ripasso Cabernet Merlot 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Cabernet Merlot food pairings: deep dish lasagne, meat lover's pizza, grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2017 - 2019 485599 14% D 750 mL $19.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

In Situ Reserva Carmenere 2015, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: Juicy, rich and round Chilean red wine made from the country's iconic Carmenere grape. Produced by San Esteban, this robust Chilean red wine comes from the winery's Winemakers Selection. It offers aromas of cassis and cedar with full-bodied richness. This wine is named after the river that divides it in half. The region of Aconcagua in Chile is extremely warm and dry, ideal for ripening rich, full-bodied red wines. It's supple and layered on the palate, like liquid velvet. I'd drink this wine with hearty meat dishes. Carmenere food pairings: pork tenderloin, pork roast, gourmet burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2021 37952 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viña Chocalán Reserva Syrah 2015, Maipo, Chile: Rich and full-bodied with attractive aromas and flavours of fleshy black plum and coffee-mocha. Supple and mouth-filling. Amazingly great price. Try it with grilled pork chops. Syrah food pairings: rare roast beef with oven roasted potatoes, game, cheddar, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2017 - 2020 38513 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Echeverria Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2015, Casablanca Valley, Chile Chardonnay food pairings: chicken Kiev, grilled cracked pepper calamari, lemon buttered lobster. Drink: 2017 - 2019 485292 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Echeverria Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Central Valley, Chile: Balsamic notes on the nose with cedar forest and wild blackberries. This is a full-bodied Chilean red wine offers attractive aromas of blackcurrant and cassis. The Limited Edition is a red wine blend of about 85% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes with the remainder being Carmenere and Syrah grapes sourced from select vineyards. Pair with red meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: sausage and bean cassoulet, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2020 389221 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Domaine Pierre Usseglio Et Fils Châteauneuf-Du-Pape 2013, Rhone A.C., France: A deep, rich, concentrated Rhone Valley red with a long, long finish. Great cellar candidate. The vines are planted in calcareous soils. Pair with roast beef Decant 1-2 hours. Châteauneuf-Du-Pape food pairings: prime rib, hearty meat stews, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2025 381079 15% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 93/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cuvée Des Mofs Chartreuse, South Of France A.C., France Chartreuse food pairings: dried stonefruit, sweet and salted nuts. Drink: 2017 - 2022 480962 44.9% S 700 mL $64.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Ferraud Les Charmes Morgon 2015, Beaujolais A.C., France: Pretty and medium-bodied with fleshy cherry and filed berries. This southern French red wine is made from the Gamay grape from one of the most respected regions in Beaujolais -- Morgon. The vines are planted is decomposed rocks. This winery has been family owned since 1942. A little herbal on the finish. Perfect for charcuterie. Food pairings: roast chicken, hearty lentil stew, pork roast. Drink: 2017 - 2019 268052 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Schlumberger Princes Abbes Pinot Gris 2014, Alsace A.C., France: Dry and refreshing with good balance and structure. The 7 Alsatian grapes which comprise the blend of Princes Abbes range in style and contribute to the complexity. They are low yielding vines planted in sandstone soil slopes. Kicks off with fresh orange zest then continues with a crisp citrus medley of vibrant notes of lemons and limes. Medium-bodied. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to seafood and salads. An energetic finish of dry refreshment Pinot Gris food pairings: chicken cacciatore, pasta, potato salad, liver pâté, cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2018 21253 13% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Billaud-Simon Mont De Milieu Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France Chablis food pairings: steamed mussels and clams in their own juice, sauteed prawns in white wine sauce, oysters on the half shell. Drink: 2017 - 2019 373548 13% XD 750 mL $62.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem 2014, Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi A.C, France: This Cotes du Roussillon Villages Latour de France Occultum Lapidem sources grapes grown on vines planted in schist soils close to the village of Latour de France. It's a red wine blend of mostly Syrah and Grenache along with some Carignan grapes. The wine was matured in concrete tanks. Produced by M. Chapoutier, this is benchmark Rhone Valley red wine from a spectacular vintage. Black fruit, smoke, tar and black pepper. Full-bodied, balanced, concentrated with great depth. An incredible wine for this price point. Pair with filet mignon. Food pairings: filet mignon, slow-roasted baron of beef, rib steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 643239 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 95/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Grand Mouëys 2015, Bordeaux A.C., France Food pairings: pan-fried trout, seafood pot pie, coquilles St. Jacques. Drink: 2017 - 2018 489807 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bailly Lapierre Réserve Brut Crémant De Bourgogne, Burgundy A.C., France: This Burgundian bubbly offers tremendous value, especially at this modest price point. It's crisp and toasty with good persistence of tiny bubbles. Finishes with vibrancy. Pair with shellfish. Crémant De Bourgogne food pairings: lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew. Drink: 2014 - 2108 641423 12% D 375 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Besancenot Clos Du Roi 2013, Côte De Beaune Burgundy A.C., France: Lovely, elegant and balanced with a satin texture and cherry aromas. Dry and satisfying with Old World finesse. Food pairings: prime rib, hearty meat stews, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 183772 13.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Saint Nabor 2015, Côtes Du Rhone, Rhone A.C., France Food pairings: butter chicken, seafood pot pie, lemon buttered lobster. Drink: 2017 - 2019 485532 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut-Vignoble Seguin 2012, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux A.C., France Food pairings: sausage and bean cassoulet, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 348748 14% XD 750 mL $32.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blanche De Montal White Armagnac, Armagnac A.C., France Armagnac food pairings: fruitcake, game pot pie, game pate. Drink: 2017 - 2025 481127 39.9% D 700 mL $37.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mas des Bressades Cuvée Tradition Rosé 2016, Costières De Nîmes, South Rhone A.P., France: Lovely, red floral, wild strawberry, bone-dry, mouth-watering. Packed with flavour yet not heavy. Perfect for grilled Portobello mushroom and eggplant dishes. Rosé food pairings: onion tarte, baked ham with citrus glaze, salmon and potato cakes. Drink: 2017 - 2018 950576 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Puig-Parahy Carignane De La Perpignane 2013, Cotes Du Roussillon, Roussillon A.C., France Food pairings: roast chicken, turkey casserole, shepherd's pie. Drink: 2017 - 2019 480988 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Xavier Vignon Ventoux 2015, Ventoux, Southern Rhone, Rhone A. P., France: Xavier Vignon was the consulting winemaker for several respected Rhone Valley wineries. Building on this work, he now creates his own wine under this label. A well-priced supple, smooth French red wine with aromas of dark fruit and good juicy acidity. Pair with grilled pork chops. Food pairings: sausage and bean cassoulet, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2020 413211 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Brumont Tour Bouscasse 2011, Madiran, Southwest A.P., France: A towering big southern French red wine with smokey aromas with toasty oak and black fruit. Full-bodied. Food pairings: Tourtière, roast beef, roasted venison. Drink: 2017 - 2021 414615 14.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Cérons 2007, Cérons, Bordeaux A.C., France Food pairings: smoked salmon pizza, seafood pot pie, quiche. Drink: 2017 - 2017 486092 13% XD 750 mL $38.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De Biéville Louis Moreau 2015, Chablis, Burgundy A.C., France: Lots of crisp green apple aromas and flavours on the nose and palate of this unoaked northern Burgundian Chardonnay from the Chablis region. Perfect for fresh seafood and shellfish. Food pairings: oysters on the half-shell, grilled calamari, steamed mussels. Drink: 2017 - 2019 106161 12% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine du Grapillon d'Or Gigondas Millesime 2014, Southern Rhône, Rhone A.C., France: This is black liquid velvet; so tantalizing to the tongue and senses. Gigondas is my go-to region on a restaurant list. There are 35 acres planted for this wine that produces 50,000 bottles a year. The average age of the vines is 40 years, which imparts incredible depth and complexity of flavour in the wine. The grape are hand-picked and selected. Bursting with aromas and flavours of fleshy dark fruit, dark spices, dried herbs and garrigue. This wine is unfiltered. Pair with prime rib. Food pairings: prime rib, hearty meat stews, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 981787 14.5% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 94/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Ursulines Pinot Noir 2015, Burgundy A.C., France: Juicy with lots of bright, mouth-watering acidity. Aromas of tart cherries and small field berries. A little herbal/green but not unpleasant. Pinot Noir food pairings: chicken, planked salmon, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2020 408310 12.5% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greece

Boutari Xinomavro 2014, Naoussa, Macedonia, Greece: Full-bodied, smooth and juicy with aromas of dried red fruits. Lots of acidity for a wide range of dishes from lamb with rosemary to pork tenderloin. Earthy and dry. Classic Old World style, not fruit-forward. Some dark spices on the finish makes it ideal for hearty meat dishes. This has the signature of Xinomavro, the leading red grape in modern Greek wines, with cedar and black olive notes. Loads of mouth-watering acidity for lamb. Excellent for the price. The Naoussa gets about 1 year aging in French oak barrels. The Chief Oenologist Yiannis Voyatzis has a deft hand on this wine. Xinomavro food pairings: lamb, pizza, paté. Drink: 2017 - 2021 764118 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hungary

Puklus Pincészet Tokaji Yellow Muscat 2015, Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary: Beautiful concentration of lemon essence! Here's a dessert wine that's not cloying sweet, and will be perfect with lemon or poppy seed cake. Oh yum. Muscat grapes thrive in clay and volcanic, which brings out the floral essence in them and the finished wine, especially in dessert styles. The rolling hills of north-eastern Hungary provide excellent drainage for the vines planted on their slopes. Yellow Muscat food pairings: smoked paprika chicken, lemon cake, poppy seed strudel. Drink: 2017 - 2022 46508 13.5% M 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Marchesi Antinori Guado al Tasso Vermentino 2015, Bolgheri, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: Crisp and refreshing with lots of nervy, edgy acidity for seafood and shellfish. No Oak. Lime zest on the finish. Vermentino food pairings: steamed mussels and clams in their own juice, sauteed prawns in white wine sauce, grilled calamari. Drink: 2017 - 2018 177428 13% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Casisano Brunello Di Montalcino 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: roasted game meats, roast leg of lamb with garlic and rosemary, veal chops in rich mushroom sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2019 483800 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Leonardo Da Vinci Rosso Di Montalcino 2011, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy Rosso Di Montalcino food pairings: veal chops in red wine sauce, turkey tetrazzini, soft cheeses. Drink: 2017 - 2019 451419 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pietranera Riserva Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A distinguished and vibrant Brunello with mouth-watering acidity for tomato and meat sauces. Full-bodied with tart black cherry and smoke. Pair with truffle dishes. Wow. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: filet mignon, slow-roasted baron of beef, rib steak. Drink: 2017 - 2025 473116 14.5% XD 750 mL $80.95 Score: 93/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Lecciaia Riserva Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: pizza, pasta, rare steaks, pork tenderloin, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 241307 14.5% XD 750 mL $73.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cesari Riserva Sangiovese 2013, Emilia-Romagna D.O.C., Italy: Sweet chocolate, mocha and coffee espresso on the nose of this big Italian red wine displays aromas of 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, Tuscan salami. Drink: 2017 - 2021 33399 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Baracchi O'lillo 2014, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy Food pairings: sausage and bean cassoulet, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2020 479071 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gaja Ca' Marcanda Promis 2014, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Towering, deep and complex Italian red wine. This wine is a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese grapes. It’s a beautiful expression of fleshy ripe blackberries, fig, cassis, violets and sundried tomato. A mouth-coating texture and a lively acidity make for a delicious interplay of textures and flavours across the palate. This is one of Italy’s best producers. This winery is famed vintner Angelo Gaja’s project in Tuscany’s coastal region of Maremma. Thank-you Angelo. Food pairings: breaded veal cutlets, bean-based dishes, beet salad, leg of lamb, beef with stout, Tuscan bread. Drink: 2017 - 2025 745638 13% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jacopo Poli Cleopatra Grappa, Veneto, Italy Grappa food pairings: fresh fruit, nuts, hard cheeses, cured ham and meats. Drink: 2017 - 2022 367664 40% D 700 mL $79.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2014, Alto Adige Trentino Doc, Italy: Soft and mild with some notes of white melon. Not a lot acidity. Pleasant aperitif. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pasta with cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, pork burgers, oysters on the half-shell. Drink: 2014 - 2016 106450 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello Di Ama Al Poggio 2013, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy Drink: 2017 - 2019 747394 13% XD 750 mL $33.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marchesi de Frescobaldi Mormoreto 2012, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A stunning Italian red wine that's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot (aka a Super Tuscan). Aromas of dark fruit, smoke and violets. Perfect for game dishes and hard cheeses. Food pairings: venison burgers, rib roast, roast lamb shoulder. Drink: 2017 - 2022 951210 14.5% XD 750 mL $63.95 Score: 96/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenuta San Guido Le Difese 2014, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Juicy and mouth-watering with sour and tart cherry notes. Supple and fairly smooth. Perfect for grilled meats. Food pairings: prime rib, hearty meat stews, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2022 147876 12.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kellerei St Magdalena Cantina Produttori Bolzano Pinot Grigio 2015, Alto Adige Trentino D.O.C., Italy: Crisp, vibrant northern Italian Pinot Grigio. Lemongrass and lime aromas. Fresh, fresh, fresh! Lemon zest, and some green apple. Terrific mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied. Great price. Try with pasta and cream sauce. Pair with oysters, clams and mussels. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pineapple and ham pizza, baked mussel and clam casserole, spring greens salad with pear and apple. Drink: 2017 - 2017 249466 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 87/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Squealing Pig Pinot Noir 2016, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops in red wine sauce, lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, rabbit fricassee. Drink: 2017 - 2022 427211 14% D 750 mL $24.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Squealing Pig Pinot Noir 2014, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Lovely bright cherry notes on this medium-bodied, smooth New Zealand Pinot Noir. Racy acidity for planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops in red wine sauce, lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, rabbit fricassee. Drink: 2017 - 2022 427211 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kim Crawford Wild Grace Small Parcels Chardonnay 2015, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand: Full-bodied, voluptuous and layered with butterscotch goodness and pineapple aromas. Yet not cloying or heavy, just mouth-filling and soul satisfying. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: butter chicken, seafood pot pie, lemon buttered lobster. Drink: 2015 - 2020 378604 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. April 2017. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Giesen Riesling 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Magnificent, especially at this price! Lime, green melon, chives and spritely sunshine fill the glass. Mouth-watering and dry. Wow. Riesling food pairings: shellfish, vegetarian dishes, light curries. Drink: 2017 - 2018 277673 10% MS 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Castello D'alba Vinhas Velhas Grande Reserva 2013, Douro D.O.C., Portugal Food pairings: roasted game meats, roast leg of lamb with garlic and rosemary, veal chops in rich mushroom sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2022 10399 14.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Paulo Laureano Reserve 2014, Vidigueira, Alentejo D.O.C., Portugal Food pairings: prime rib roast, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2020 488775 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dow's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2011, Douro Valley D.O.C., Portugal: Terrific value for this Portuguese fortified dessert wine from the Douro Valley. Aromas of blackcurrant jam and blackberry pie wrapped in smoke. Pair with holiday fruitcake, chocolate cheesecake or chocolate chip cookies. Port food pairings: blue cheese, nuts, almond torte, chocolate. Drink: 2016 - 2022 533364 20% S 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 2017. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Romania

Astrum Cervi Feteasca Neagra 2014, Prahova, Romania Feteasca Neagra food pairings: apple tarte, pear saffron cake, fresh fruit. Drink: 2017 - 2020 466466 12.9% D 750 mL $17.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Ken Forrester Renegade 2012, Stellenbosch, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Juicy and full-bodied with black fruit and mouth-watering acidity for tangy meat dishes. Balanced. Sustainably farmed with no hericides or pesticides. Food pairings: gourmet burgers, slow-braised beef ribs, bobtje. Drink: 2017 - 2021 487306 14.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ken Forrester Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc 2012, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Clean and fresh like an early spring breeze. Mouth-watering, medium-bodied and crisp. Terrific white peach and floral notes. I continue to be impressed with South African Chenin blanc: it's a lovely change from other whites. Great for after an evening dip in the pool. Quince and orange zest on the finish. Terrific! Chenin Blanc food pairings: white fleshed fish, Greek salad, game, grilled pork, salmon tartare served on homemade crisps. Drink: 2014 - 2018 231282 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J.C. Le Roux Pinot Noir Rosé Sparkling 2010, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa Pinot Noir Rosé Sparkling food pairings: goat cheese, dried cranberry and spring greens salad, charcuterie, baked chicken in rosé sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2019 483057 13% D 750 mL $16.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Marquésa Valserrano Reserva 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Coffee and espresso wrapped in mocha on this highly seductive red. Dark fleshy black plums and blackberries. Full-bodied and ultra-supple. Long finish with dark spices. Perfect for coffee-rubbed steak. Food pairings: beef, hamburgers, fajitas, lamburgers. Drink: 2017 - 2022 314963 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alvarez De Toledo Senorio De La Antigua Mencía 2012, Castilla Y Léon I.G.P., Spain Mencía food pairings: grilled rare steak on the bbq, slow-cooked beef ribs, hearty lentil and bean stew. Drink: 2017 - 2020 481549 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coto De Imaz Gran Reserva Tempranillo 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Dusty dry with some savoury dark red and dried fruit. Mature notes of leather and cigar smoke. Tempranillo food pairings: herbed steaks, Portobello mushroom, chilli, soup, Papas con chorizo. Drink: 2017 - 2020 976811 13.5% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

González Byass Del Duque Vors Amontillado Sherry, Jerez D.O., Spain Sherry food pairings: roasted nuts, Manchengo cheese, hard cheeses. Drink: 2017 - 2020 694331 21% XD 375 mL $39.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Treana Marsanne Viognier 2016, Central Coast, California, United States: Hope Family Wines produces this full-bodied Californian white wine blend of tradition Rhone Valley grapes, such as Viognier and Marsanne. Love the richness and the viscous texture! Dried pineapple and apricot with layers and layers of lapping pleasure. Full-bodied with a long finish. Pair with roast turkey. Marsanne Viognier food pairings: coconut shrimp, caviar, roast chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2019 11247 14.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Opus One Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: This flagship Napa Valley wine is produced by a collaboration between Baron Philippe De Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. It's mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with some Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec grapes in the blend. Complex, rich and deep, this cabernet delivers lasting and substantial pleasure on the palate and in the memory. Try it at least once in your life. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: filet mignon, rare rib steak, tenderloin en croute. Drink: 2017 - 2030 26310 14% XD 750 mL $459.00 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Silver Palm Zinfandel 2012, North Coast, California, United States Zinfandel food pairings: veal chops in red wine sauce, turkey tetrazzini, cranberry and wild rice stuffed Cornish hens. Drink: 2017 - 2019 481457 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stonehedge Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: Robust with lots of toasty oak and cigar box with some golden apple on the palate. Smoky with campfire and hickory smoke on the nose. Full-bodied and smooth with more smoke from toasty oak aging on the palate. Baked apple on the finish. Pair with smoked turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: linguine with clams and fennel, stuffed roasted turkey, Asian dishes, grilled seafood. Drink: 2017 - 2020 311548 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Joel Gott Wines Zinfandel 2014, California, United States: Beautifully juicy and full-bodied and supple with aromas and flavours of juicy black and purple plums. Pair with grilled meats. Zinfandel food pairings: pizza, gourmet burgers, baby back ribs in a spicy sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2021 224139 14.8% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Groth Vineyards & Winery Hillview Vineyard Chardonnay 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: Buttery and bold with notes of freshly baked bread and butterscotch. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: butter chicken, seafood pot pie, lemon buttered lobster. Drink: 2017 - 2019 225672 13% XD 750 mL $71.00 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Airfield Chardonnay 2014, Yakima Valley, Washington, United States Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken with lemon and honey thyme, smoked whitefish with mango relish, oyster pot pie. Drink: 2017 - 2018 479295 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot 2015, Paso Robles, California, United States Merlot food pairings: veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, grilled pork chops, Tandoori-flavored dishes. Drink: 2016 - 2019 27516 13.5% D 750 mL $22.95 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot 2014, Paso Robles, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian red wine made from Merlot grapes offering aromas of black fruit, dark chocolate and lots of toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Merlot food pairings: veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, grilled pork chops, Tandoori-flavored dishes. Drink: 2016 - 2019 27516 13.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: A juicy full-bodied mouthful with mocha and dark chocolate and black fleshy plums. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet hamburger, braised short ribs, vegetable stew. Drink: 2015 - 2020 904532 14.5% XD 750 mL $99.00 Score: 92/100. April 2017. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Paso Robles, California, United States: This robust Californian red wine from J. Lohr is the Seven Oaks label. Lots of dark chocolate and espresso on this robust Californian Cabernet that has been oak aged. Pair this Californian Cabernet Sauvignon with meat lovers' pizza. This is the half sized bottle which is great for nights on your own or when you want to start with a glass each and move on to something else with your dining companion. Great for the BBQ. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef, hamburgers, fajitas, lamburgers. Drink: 2016 - 2019 313817 13.6% D 375 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2017. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Charles Smith Wines Of Substance Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Washington, United States: A firm tannic grip on this big Washington state red wine. Cellar a few years then decant 2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Aromas of black fruit and toasty oak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: prime rib roast, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2022 419770 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Opus One Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Napa Valley, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: filet mignon, rare rib steak, tenderloin en croute. Drink: 2017 - 2030 26310 14% XD 750 mL $459.00 April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Charles Smith Vino Pinot Grigio 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Melon crisp and crisp with a medium body and pleasing acidity for seafood or to make this a terrific stand-alone aperitif. Pinot Grigio food pairings: cracked pepper grilled calamari, whitefish in lemon and white wine sauce, seafood linguini. Drink: 2017 - 2018 493205 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 2017. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


© 2024 Natalie MacLean