Argentina
Catena Alta Historic Rows Malbec 2014, Mendoza, Argentina: The grapes for this wine come from four different vineyards, picked at four different times from old vines (historic rows). Long finish with notes of dried tobacco leaves, leather and spice. Espresso aromas on the nose with fleshy ripe black plum flavours on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. Lovely, long dark spice finish. Truly one of Argentina's flagship wineries. Try it with rare tenderloin. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, cheddar cheese, herb-rubbed roast chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2923 982355 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Callejón Del Crimen Gran Reserva Malbec 2014, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied, smooth, supple Argentine made from 100% Malbec, the country's iconic red grape. Notes of fleshy black plums and blackberries. The vines grow in the Uco Valley of the Mendoza at 1100 metres above sea level. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. Pair with grilled meats. Malbec food pairings: barbecued meats, venison steak, bison burgers. Drink: 2016 - 2020 357467 14.8% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Susana Balbo Crios Malbec 2015, Mendoza, Argentina: Tasty and full-bodied Argentine red wine with black fruit and toasty smoke aromas. Supple and smooth. Winemaker Susana Balbo is one of the most respected names in the Argentine wine industry. This particular Malbec has a great finish. Pair with lamb chops. Great price. Malbec food pairings: cheese pizza, veal, beef, tagliatelle alla Bolognese (pasta), chicken herb-rubbed roast. Drink: 2017 - 2020 538784 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Howard Park Miamup Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Dark as night, pitch black fruit and charred, toasty oak on the nose and palate of this full-throttle Australian red wine. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, grilled burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2020 410019 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Yalumba The Scribbler Cabernet Shiraz 2013, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Rich, round and full-bodied Australian red wine blend of Shiraz Cabernet. Good grip on the palate from tannins. Decant 1 hour and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Shiraz food pairings: rich beef, lamb dishes, roast duck. Drink: 2016 - 2020 165811 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Two Hands Bella's Garden Shiraz 2015, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, deeply concentrated Australian Shiraz with attractive aromas of black plum and blackberry. Mouth-filling and delicious. Pair with roast beef. Shiraz food pairings: marinated pepper steaks, burgers with blue cheese, grilled pork chops, Muscovy duck. Drink: 2017 - 2020 636407 15.8% D 750 mL $64.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wakefield Winery Jaraman Shiraz 2018, Clare Valley, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Dark chocolate and sweet black fleshy plums on the nose with a pleasant zing of acidity mid-palate for lots of dishes from tangy meat sauces to grilled meats. More black fruit and mouth-filling roundness. A consistently good producer at fair prices for the quality. Highly recommended. This Australian red wine is a regional blend of Shiraz grapes of about two-thirds Clare Valley and one-third McLaren Vale regions. The wine was partially cold-soaked for 4 days, then aged in 100% new American oak barrels for 11 months. Deeply concentrated and flavoured. Shiraz food pairings: juicy, grilled rare sirloin steak, hard cheese like Cheddar or Havarti. Drink: 2020 - 2023 377036 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Austria
Laurenz V. Friendly Grüner Veltliner 2015, Kamptal D.A.C., Austria: Lime green intensity. Loads of acidity. Refreshing x 10. Finishes with a lime lift into the blue sky yonder. Try with shellfish. Grüner Veltliner food pairings: grilled seafood, lobster in butter sauce, ravioli in an Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2020 66225 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Featherstone Winery Joy Premium Cuvée Sparkling Rosé 2015, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Always a terrific sparkling wine vintage after vintage. Strawberry and wild raspberry on the nose of this lovely Niagara sparkling rose wine. Toasty, crisp and fresh yet with a firm backbone. Pair with fried chicken. Sparkling Rosé food pairings: pasta, lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew, white turkey meat. Drink: 2017 - 2020 450700 12.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hidden Bench Estate Chardonnay 2016, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: From the Beamsville Bench in the Niagara Escarpment, the 2016 vintage of the Hidden Bench Estate sources Chardonnay grapes for this wine from those 100% organically grown on the estate and come from the Locust Lane, Felseck and Rosomel Vineyards. Savoury and mouth-watering with toasted almond slivers and green apple on the nose and palate. A full-bodied, balanced Niagara Chardonnay with rich layers of butterscotch and lime notes. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled seafood, pork tenderloin, lobster in butter sauce, ravioli in an Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2024 68817 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Charles Baker Wines Picone Vineyard Riesling 2014, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Unparalleled quality and flavour in this off-dry, mouth-watering Ontario white wine. Superb craftsmanship in this benchmark Niagara Riesling. You simply won't find better than this. Incredible depth and concentration of flavour yet ephemerally light in alcohol. The best of all worlds: pure hedonism without the headache. Pair with happiness. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate. Drink: 2016 - 2022 241182 10.5% M 750 mL $34.95 Score: 96/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hidden Bench Estate Chardonnay 2015, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury and mouth-watering with toasted almond slivers and green apple on the nose and palate. A full-bodied, balanced Niagara Chardonnay with rich layers of butterscotch and lime notes. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled seafood, pork tenderloin, lobster in butter sauce, ravioli in an Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2020 68817 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tawse Winery Inc. Spark Limestone Ridge Sparkling Riesling 2015, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Zesty and vibrant with lime and lemon notes. Great value for the price. Pair with oysters. Sparkling Riesling food pairings: sautéed deep sea scallops, seafood salads, sushi. Drink: 2017 - 2019 370361 12% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Athene 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: The strength of the 2014 vintage shows beautifully in this BC blockbuster red wine. Wowsers. A robust BC red wine blend of Cabernet and Syrah grapes. Smoky, toasty oak with a charred, blackened edge. This is the winery's flagship label. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: grilled meats, meat lover's pizza, meaty stews. Drink: 2017 - 2023 371336 14.5% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stratus 2013, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant and terrific Niagara red wine blend from a much-respected winery in a spectacular vintage. Aromas of cassis, black currant and wild blackberry with some clove-spice on the finish. Great cellar wine. Pair with rare meats. The 2013 vintage of the Stratus Red is a blend of 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 11% Syrah, 2% Malbec, 3% Sangiovese and 2% Tannat grapes. Great structure, firm tannins and a long finish. Could also cellar for 10 years. Food pairings: rare roast beef, lamburgers, beef Bourguignon. Drink: 2017 - 2022 131037 13.5% D 750 mL $47.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Pérez Cruz Limited Edition Carmenère 2015, Maipo Valley, Chile: Wonderfully rich and concentrated red wine, yet savory and mouth-watering too. Full-bodied goodness in this Carmenère without being heavy. Nice balance and length. Offers aromas of black plum, smoke and dark spice on the finish. The Carmenère grape originates from the Bordeaux region of France and was first planted in Chile in the nineteenth century. Carmenère food pairings: marinated steak, herb-encrusted lamb chops, spicy red meats, dark chocolate, hearty stews. Drink: 2017 - 2020 670539 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Concha y Toro Marqués De Casa Concha Chardonnay 2015, Limarí Valley, Chile: An attractive Chilean Chardonnay for the money. Medium- to full-bodied quaffer with notes of green apples, peach, butter and some smoke with mouth-watering acidity. Lovely baked bread notes on the finish. Great value. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: veal cutlets with caper sauce, veal breast wild mushrooms in white sauce, slow-braised veal chops with white wine sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2020 342857 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Maipo Valley, Chile: Uber gorgeous, deep and delicious! Terrific bold red wine from Chile's Maipo Valley. This wine is made from diverse blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes within the Maipo Valley. The wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. A savoury and juicy Chilean cabernet sauvignon with aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries. A full-bodied red wine that's smooth and eminently gulpable. Dark red in the glass, mouth-filling in the palate. Finishes with smoke and spice. Great depth and length in the glass and on the palate. Polished tannins and a good finish. Great with pizza or gourmet hamburgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pizza, pasta, rare steaks, pork tenderloin, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2020 18721 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Domaines Schlumberger Kessler Riesling 2014, Alsace A.C., France: Classic bone-dry Alsatian Riesling that demands your attention then rewards you to gorgeous aromas of wet stone, white peach and dried apricot. Pair with lemon chicken. Excellent! Riesling food pairings: lemon chicken, crab cakes, pan-fried cod with lemon white sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2024 61176 13% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cave de Tain Grand Classique 2015, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône Ac, France: Spectacular for the money! Great intensity and depth of flavour in the glass; great pleasure and satisfaction in the mind. A lovely juicy, spicy wine with fleshy ripe cherries and smoke. Medium- to full-bodied and satin smooth. Terrific! Previous vintages of this wine have won the Gold Medal at the prestigious Concours des Grands Vins de France. Food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef stew, grilled chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2020 572230 12.5% D 750 mL $29.25 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Ferme du Mont Première Côte 2015, Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: Savoury with dried herbs and a firm tannic grip on the palate so decant 1-2 hours. Stéphan Vedeau produced this robust southern French red wine blend that's a typical GSM, mostly Grenache, with about a third Syrah and the remainder Mourvèdre grapes. He's a third generation winemaker from Cotes Du Rhone. His wines are all organic products, free of chemicals and pesticides, the fertilizers are organic and he uses ambient or natural yeasts to ferment the wines. The wine was matured concrete tanks for 12 months. The vines are planted on the eastern slopes near the town of Courthezon, which lies along the eastern border of Châteauneuf du Pape in the Rhone. The 2015 vintage of the Côtes du Rhône Premières Côte grapes were picked in late September and early October. Food pairings: roast beef, smoked beef sammies with gravy, rib eye steak. Drink: 2017 - 2021 251645 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Ferme du Mont Le Ponnant 2015, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, Rhône A.P., France: Balanced, full-bodied and savoury delicious. Although Grenache leads in the blend at 80%, there's also 10% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre grapes in this cuvee. Winemaker Stéphane Vedeau lovingly brings forward luscious fruit flavours that Syrah adds to this red wine blend from the Rhone Valley. Robust and smooth yet it has terrific concentration and complexity. Savoury with satisfying aromas and flavours of black cherry and cedar forest floor. Attractive notes of black raspberry, violets and wild brush on the mid-palate. A powerful red wine from the Rhone Valley, with seriously rich and fleshy ripe brandied cherry aromas and flavours. Polished tannins with anise and blackberry on the finish. Decant for 1 hour for maximum pleasure. Pair with rare cuts of meat. Food pairings: braised beef ribs, Porterhouse steak, standing rib roast. Drink: 2017 - 2023 171371 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Joinin 2015, Bordeaux A.C., France: Rustic, robust and tannic: drinks nicely after 2 hours decanting. Great price for Bordeaux. Needs a juicy rare steak. Food pairings: rare roast beef, lamburgers, beef Bourguignon. Drink: 2017 - 2020 527853 13.8% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Brotte Domaine Barville Châteauneuf-Du-Pape 2015, Rhône A.C., France: Balanced and delicious: not as heavy as I expected, which is good. The strong 2015 vintage Châteauneuf du Pape shows in the glass of this Domaine Barville. Full-bodied, layered and complex with black fruit and toasty oak. Châteauneuf-Du-Pape food pairings: rich stews osso Bucco, roasted root vegetable casserole. Drink: 2017 - 2024 148841 14.5% XD 750 mL $50.25 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Gérard Bertrand Fitou 2014, Midi A.P., France: Winemaker Gerard Bertrand loves the Mediterranean lifestyle. The vineyard for this wine lies between the mountains of Corbières and the lakes and beaches along the Mediterranean coastline in southern France. The Fitous region has a wide range of micro-climates and soils. This full-bodied red finishes with dark spices. Juicy-delicious, absolutely wonderful aromas and flavours of fleshy black jam, blackberry pie and some smoke. This is a dry, full-bodied wine but the riot of aromas are amazing. Fitou food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, lentil dishes. Drink: 2017 - 2022 403683 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Cattin Hatschbourg Gewurztraminer 2015, Alsace A.C., France: The 2015 vintage of this Hatschbourg Grand Cru seduces with lychee, rose petal and baking spices on the nose. Very distinctive and aromatic. Full-bodied with lots of layers. Luscious with a finish that leaves you longing for more. Highly recommended. Pair with mandarin and spice inflected dishes. Gewurztraminer food pairings: Asian and spicy dishes, pork tenderloin topped, lighter-flavoured sea-food dishes. Drink: 2017 - 2020 259770 13% M 750 mL $26.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Tauzinat L'hermitage 2015, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: A balanced, full-bodied Bordeaux red wine blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes from the Right Bank region of St. Emilion. Aromas of cedar brush, tart blackberry and smoke. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: roast beef, roast venison, duck. Drink: 2017 - 2022 486704 13% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Mellot La Chatellenie Sancerre 2016, Loire A.C., France: A grassy, herbal, fresh-cut hay French white wine. Pair with seafood. Sancerre food pairings: oyster spinach green onion crusted with mashed potato hot pot, potted shrimp on herbed toast, seafood chowder. Drink: 2017 - 2021 525154 12.5% D 750 mL $31.95 Score: 87/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Rosé Champagne 2008, Champagne A.C., France: A lovely, mature rose Champagne from one of the region's most respected producers. Aromas of field berries and dried flowers with some cherry on the finish. Enjoy as an aperitif or companion to salmon. Rosé Champagne food pairings: pasta with cheese-based sauce, caviar, lobster thermidor, sushi. Drink: 2017 - 2025 69831 12% D 750 mL $102.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Marchesi Antinori Castello Della Sala Bramìto Chardonnay 2016, Umbria I.G.T., Italy: Bright, lifted chardonnay that's more in the style of chablis: fresh peach, no heavy oak. Refreshing. Chardonnay food pairings: pan seared scallops, lobster tail marinated in dill and lemon juice, pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2020 139088 12.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 88/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Fazio Aegades Grillo 2015, Erice, Sicily D.O.C., Italy: Juicy, cherry-berry Chilean red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. Lovely nose and palate. A bit reduced on the finish. Grillo food pairings: roasted pork loin with a glaze of herbs, coq au vin, planked salmon on the grill. Drink: 2017 - 2020 388637 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 84/100. January 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Travaglini Gattinara 2012, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: If you like Barolo, try this one as it's also made from the Nebbiolo grape. This seductive, robust Italian red wine is still quite tannic with tarry black fruit and violets, so it needs cellar time. Decant 2 hours. Try it with a rack of lamb. Food pairings: beef, mushroom risotto, gorgonzola. Drink: 2017 - 2022 713354 13.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 87/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Marchesi di Barolo Barbaresco 2013, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: 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. Barbaresco food pairings: gourmet burgers, mutton with mint and coriander, pizza, steak. Drink: 2017 - 2025 155408 14.5% XD 750 mL $42.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Poggiotondo Brunello Di Montalcino 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Drink this now: its at peak. Seductive nose of wild violets and woodland tart berries. More earth and dust than fruit. Palate is mixed spice and mystery. Good finish but by far my fav is the nose and palate. Pair with truffle-accented dishes. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: pasta in tomato sauce, meat pizza, vegetarian lasagna. Drink: 2017 - 2023 276576 14% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Vite Lucente 2015, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Complex, full-bodied yet nuanced and long on the finish. This vibrant Italian red wine features gorgeous aromas of dried black cherry, cedar, smoke, fleshy blackberries from an iconic producer. It's a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, and it was aged for 1 year in French barriques. Decant for 1 hour. Pair this wine with prime rib. Food pairings: pepper steak, roast beef, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2017 - 2023 747030 13.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rivera Il Falcone Riserva Castel del Monte 2011, Puglia D.O.C.G., Italy: This robust Italian red wine is made in one of the more southerly wine regions of the country, where the grapes ripen to full flavour and depth. The 2011 vintage of the Rivera Il Falcone is a blend of mostly Nero di Troia grapes and some Montepulciano grapes. Savoury, smoky and brooding with fleshy black fruit aromas and flavours. Ultra-delicious and smooth already in texture. Southern Italy has undergone a quality revolution. Taste this red to see what I mean. Pair this wine with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef stew, grilled chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2020 177295 13.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lavarini Valpolicella Classico 2015, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A full-bodied Italian red wine with lots of juicy acidity for tangy tomato sauce. Aromas of dark berries and spice. Valpolicella Classico food pairings: beef, mushroom risotto, blue cheeses on burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2020 530568 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Oyster Bay Chardonnay 2016, Marlborough, New Zealand: A crisp, fresh New Zealand Chardonnay with bright notes of green apple and white peach. A subtle weave of oak comes from the fact that half of this wine is aged in oak barrels and the other half in stainless steel tank to preserve fruit freshness. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: roasted halibut or black cod, cheese tortellini, corn dishes, lobster in butter. Drink: 2016 - 2018 326728 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Republic Of Macedonia
Stobi Vranac 2015, Tikves, Republic Of Macedonia: A rustic, robust red wine with black fruit and toasted oak. Straight-up and a good price. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Vranac food pairings: stir-fry of spicy beef and broccoli, sausage cassoulet, roasted root vegetable casserole. Drink: 2017 - 2019 317297 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 84/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2015, Swartland W.O., South Africa: Burnt toast from oak aging and blackened fruit. This is full-bodied in overdrive. This full-bodied red wine is a blend of mostly shiraz grapes and some Grenache, cabernet sauvignon, cinsault and a splash of viognier grapes. It's savoury, complex and delicious: wow! Cassis, blackberry and cedar forest. Meaty and enticing, full-bodied wonderful with a concentrated weave of anise, cigar box, pepper and meaty notes. Extremely juicy and mouth-watering in a food-happy kind of way. Balanced and delicious: this is a terrific red to red if you're not familiar with South African wines, or even if you are. Highly recommended. Food pairings: roast chicken Marbella, western BBQ chicken, vegetable chilli. Drink: 2017 - 2021 129353 14.5% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 89/100. January 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mulderbosch Faithful Hound 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: The Faithful Hound offers enticing aromas of black, smoky fruit and a savoury, mouth-watering core. Some cedar notes in the background and on the finish. The 2014 vintage was a spectacular one for this winery. Perfect for prime rib or a rare steak. Decant for 1 hour. Highly recommended. Food pairings: roast beef, turkey, pork tenderloin, coq au vin.. Drink: 2017 - 2020 922443 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Bodegas Viña Magaña 2011, Navarra D.O., Spain: Juicy, complex, concentrated and rich: this is a staggeringly great value for the money! Fleshy black plums, smoke and pepper. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: grilled meats, meat lover's pizza, vegetarian chilli. Drink: 2017 - 2022 280552 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Honoro Vera Monastrell 2016, Jumilla D.O.P., Spain: Spectacular value for this robust Spanish red wine. If you love Californian Zinfandel, try this. 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: 2017 - 2023 167684 14.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. January 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Club Lealtanza Reserva 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Mocha and espresso on the nose of this robust Spanish red wine from oak aging. Chiseled structure and terrific balance, with black fruit, smoke and dried herb aromas. The Tempranillo grapes from the classic wine region of Rioja. Pair with grilled lamb. Food pairings: grilled chicken, veal roast, casseroles. Drink: 2017 - 2023 293852 14% XD 750 mL $39.00 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Rodney Strong Reserve Chardonnay 2014, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A gorgeously rich and plush Californian Chardonnay from the cool-climate of Sonoma's Russian River Valley. Sooooo good. Toasted almond and hazelnut from oak again with aromas of golden apple and pear. Match with roast chicken or turkey. Yes please! Chardonnay food pairings: veal chops, rosemary lamb, barbecued ribs in sauce, chicken cacciatore. Drink: 2016 - 2023 210039 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hogue Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Love this style of cabernet! Cedar and savoury with wild blackberries. Balanced and dry with a full-bodied weight and long finish. Great with many meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: prime rib roast, gourmet hamburgers, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2017 - 2024 301358 14.3% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kistler Chardonnay 2015, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma County, California, United States: Rich and luxurious on the nose and palate yet not heavy. Toasted almond with freshly baked bread aromas. Wakes up the senses on the palate with great acidity and green apple vibrancy. Most Kistler Chardonnays are sourced from a single vineyard but this is the winery's only multi-vineyard site Chardonnay. Chardonnay food pairings: panko-crusted grilled chicken, salmon steaks, basil pesto, prawn bisque, cheese fondue. Drink: 2017 - 2021 183921 14.1% XD 750 mL $149.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ridge Geyserville 2015, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: This is Ridge Geyserville's 50th anniversary: this stalwart Californian red is loved by many. This is a blend of 70% Zinfandel, 15% Carignane, 12% Petite Sirah and 3% Alicante Bouschet grapes. Aromas of black fruit, dark spice and toasty oak. Pair with a rare steak. The 2015 vintage of Ridge's Geyserville is another blockbuster Californian red wine that could use serious cellar aging. A towering, monumental Californian red wine from one of the state's most respected producers. Full-bodied with a long finish. Food pairings: barbecued meats, venison steak, bison burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2023 723072 14.5% XD 750 mL $96.00 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2015, Napa Valley, California, United States: Rich, unctuous and viscous Californian Chardonnay from the heart of Napa Valley. This is such a well-known (and respected) winery. Aromas of toasty oak, pear and smoke. There's no secondary (malolactic) fermentation to preserve the fresh acidity which is nicely balancing. Primary fermentation took place in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels to lend creaminess. Only about 15% new French oak, the rest is second use to not add too much oak flavour. Pair with game meats and fowl. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, grilled chicken breast, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin.. Drink: 2017 - 2020 361949 14.5% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 91/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Shafer Vineyards One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United States: Stupendously gorgeous, always balanced yet a blockbuster in character and taste. Full-bodied with aromas of fleshy ripe black plums, toasty and some spice. Decant 2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued meats, venison steak, bison burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2025 45476 15.3% XD 750 mL $203.00 Score: 96/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: A spectacular Californian Cabernet vintage after vintage. Beautifully structured and elegant with a long finish. This is royal Californian Cabernet. Layers of black fruit and toasty oak. Needs serious cellar time then decant 2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled rare steaks, blackened ribs with BBQ sauce, coq au vin, Cornish game hen, tomato tarte. Drink: 2017 - 2027 936039 13.8% XD 750 mL $282.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Stags' Leap Winery The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, United States: If this wine were from Bordeaux, it would be one of the five first growth: so elegant, stately, with great finesse. A benchmark Californian Cabernet Sauvignon from the heart of Napa Valley. This stunning red wine offers layered complexity and flavour. Aromas of ripe blackberries mingle with cedar. Great length, depth, balance and savoury character. This towering Californian red wine is an excellent cellar candidate. It also makes for a superb dinner party wine, but don't just save it for then. Serve it tonight with a well-seasoned pepper steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, prime rib. Drink: 2017 - 2028 142844 14.1% XD 750 mL $125.95 Score: 95/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Far Niente Chardonnay 2015, Napa Valley, California, United States: Luscious and rich with layers of orchard fruit flavour. Terrific balance in this classic Californian Chardonnay, with green apple and toasted almond aromas. Nice acidity and a mouth-filling richness on the mid-palate. Pair with roast turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: steamed mussels, lemon-herbed chicken, pan-fried trout. Drink: 2017 - 2022 539130 14.3% XD 750 mL $108.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2014, Dundee Hills, Oregon, United States: A splendid Oregonian Pinot Noir that is a benchmark for both the region and the grape. This silky red wine blends New World energy with Old World finesse and styling. Aromas of fleshy cherry, wild violets, earth and smoke. Pair with more of the same. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops, grilled duck sausages, pork tenderloin, barbecued lamb sirloin, grilled carrot mash and spring greens purée. Drink: 2017 - 2023 961284 13.9% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 94/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Duckhorn Merlot 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: Savoury and juicy with aromas and flavours of fleshy black plums and smoke. Firm tannins so decant 1-2 hours. Ultra-plush red wine for diehard merlot fans seeking the Platonic ideal of merlot. Founders Daniel and Margaret Duckhorn have created quite a following for their Merlot-based wines since they first made them in the 1970s, as well as other classic Bordeaux grapes. Cellar this beauty or enjoy it with grilled pork chops tonight. Merlot food pairings: bison burgers, steaks, crown pork roast. Drink: 2017 - 2021 992529 14.5% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling 2015, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Wet stone after a spring rain plus lemon zest and lime refreshment. Love this zingy Washington state white wine made form classic Riesling grapes. Fantastic value. Pair with fresh Dover sole in melted butter. A crisp and refreshing Washington state white wine from the varietal they do best: Riesling. Lots of racy juiciness on the palate for food like shellfish. The Columbia Valley region is experiencing surging popularity among wine drinkers. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate. Drink: 2017 - 2021 685651 11.5% M 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ravenswood Teldeschi Zinfandel 2013, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Incredibly rich, full-bodied, concentrated and delicious! This is old vine Californian Zinfandel at its best. Pair with cured meats. Zinfandel food pairings: gourmet burgers, hard cheeses and charcuterie, slow-braised beef ribs. Drink: 2017 - 2023 684589 14.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
The Hess Collection 19 Block Mountain Cuvée 2013, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United States: Black and brooding: this full-bodied Californian red wine is a blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes from vines planted at 2,000 feet above sea level in the winery's estate vineyards of volcanic rock and steep slopes on Mount Vedeer. A terrific, juicy Californian red with savoury with black fruit and smoke. Pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: grilled meats, meat lover's pizza, meaty stews. Drink: 2017 - 2023 18879 14.5% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. January 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart