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

Vintages Release March 3, 2018

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

Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec 2013, La Consulta, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: The Trapiche Terroir series of wines are made from several wineries around the Mendoza wine growing area. Their 2013 Terroir Series Orellana De Escobar is an elegant wine now and could cellar for a half-dozen years or more. This benchmark single vineyard Argentine red wine made from the iconic Malbec grape features aromas of blackberry, smoke, spice and anise. Luxuriously layered and rich with a thick mouth-coating texture and weight of flavours. A hint of mint on the nose wrapped on ripe black fruit, then a coffeed-espresso finish. Such a wonderfully unusual and decadent wine. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with game meats and great conversation. Superb craftsmanship. Malbec food pairings: roasted lamb, veal dishes, grilled pork chops, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2025 178145 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Aniello 006 Riverside Estate Pinot Noir 2016, Río Negro Valley, Patagonia, Argentina: A juicy, smooth, supple, mouth-watering Pinot Noir from the cool climate of Patagonia in Argentina. Light-to medium-bodied. Aromas of tart cherry. Pair with veal and roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled lamb chops, roast quail stuffed with wild mushrooms, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2018 - 2021 542092 12.7% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2015, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Fabre Montmayou Reserva 2015 is a dark, broody Malbec from Argentina. A juicy Argentine red wine with aromas of dark red fruit and spice. This powerful red wine features toasty oak. The grapes for this wine come from 40-year-old vines near the Lujan de Cuyo and Las Compuertas regions. Approximately, 40% of the wine is matured in French oak barrels for 1 year. Pair with a rare steak. Malbec food pairings: game, lamb, spaghetti and meat balls, veal cutlets, osso buco, hard cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 261867 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Susana Balbo Signature Torrontés 2016, Finca La Delfina, Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: This Torrontes is an exemplar of its kind: it gets better every year. Argentine winemaker Susana Balbo seems to have the golden touch when it comes to a wide range of styles and wines, from this delightful floral white wine to her more robust Malbecs. Gorgeous notes of white flowers, light spice and spring rain. Pair with salads and mild curries or spices. Torrontés food pairings: mild vegetarian curries, sushi, salads topped with grilled mango chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2021 384339 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Hancock & Hancock Shiraz Grenache 2015, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A smoky, full-bodied Australian red wine blend of 57% Shiraz and 43% Grenache grapes. The wine was matured in small French oak barriques, hogsheads and large-format foudres. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plums. Winemaker Chris Hancock's first vintage was in 1962 in the McLaren Vale. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz Grenache food pairings: Mediterranean rub grilled bavette steak, grilled sausages, gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2018 - 2022 530097 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Hands Fields Of Joy Shiraz 2015, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: The back label of this bottle reads: "The vista and views all around our Clare Valley vineyards are spectacular, and every time I walk through them I smile. I am also enamoured of he fruit we source. Lifted, welcoming, red fruited with multi-dimensional bouquets, deft mouth-feel and a core of soft fruits on a graceful finish. Welcome to our Fields of Joy." This 2015 Shiraz is polished and complex with fresh cherry and raspberry on the mid-palate and finished with anise and cake spice, coffee and dark chocolate. Drink now and for the next 10 years. A concentrated, intense and deeply flavoured Australian red wine with attractive notes of black fruit and toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup. Drink: 2018 - 2024 432963 15% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Lane Vineyard Block 10 Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: A lovely, zesty Australian Sauvignon Blanc from the cool climate of the Adelaide Hills. The Block 10 vineyard has ancient limestone soils that adds to the vibrancy of this wine. Balanced acidity for seafood and shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: goat cheese salad, onion tarte, smoked whitefish on baguette. Drink: 2017 - 2019 534735 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Clare Valley, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Minty coolness on the nose of this gorgeous Australian red wine is flooded by fleshy blackberry richness on the palate. A hedonist's wine to fill the senses. Full-bodied and smooth Cabernet Sauvignon. Finishes with dried herbs, tobacco leaves and cedar brush. Very satisfying, especially at this price. Pair with ribeye steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef enchiladas, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 142398 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jim Jim The Down-Underdog Shiraz 2014, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A juicy, spicy and full-bodied Australian red wine made from the Shiraz grape and named in honour of the winery’s faithful dog, Jimmy. Lovely Aussie shiraz with black fruit, generous oak and full-bodied heft. Some mint and pepper on the finish. The Down-Underdog is the second-label Shiraz from Hugh Hamilton winery, and among a pack of playful per names such as “The Villain,” “The Scoundrel,” and “Jekyll & Hyde.” Pair with gourmet burgers. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets with pepperade and goat cheese, hamburgers, pizza, black bean soup, beef. Drink: 2017 - 2020 682005 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hill-Smith Chardonnay 2015, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Love the toasted almond undertone here in this rich yet ethereally balanced cool-climate Australian Chardonnay. Full-bodied but not heavy with lovely acidity. Green apple and pear on the nose and palate. Good layers of complexity and freshness. Satisfying finish. Try with seared tuna. Chardonnay food pairings: seared tuna, planked salmon, smoked whitefish and crème fraiche. Drink: 2018 - 2023 361584 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Cave Spring Cellars Estate Bottled Chardonnay Musqué 2015, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This fresh white wine was vinified in stainless steel tanks with the unique Musqué clone of Chardonnay. Lovely and refreshing with lime lift acidity for shellfish. Green apple and grapefruit notes. Spicy finish. Perfect for medium curries and spices. Chardonnay Musqué food pairings: pan-fried tempura shellfish, crab cakes, pan-fried cod. Drink: 2017 - 2018 246579 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Featherstone Red Tail Merlot 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy, mouth-watering acidity makes this Niagara red wine terrific for tangy meat sauces. Sweet dark cherry aromas on the nose with some mocha. Medium-bodied and super smooth with juicy and fleshy black plums flavours. Merlot food pairings: beef, cheese, poultry, pork tenderloin , quesadillas, game. Drink: 2018 - 2021 131540 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Thirty Bench Small Lot Pinot Noir 2015, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely sour cherry aromas on the nose that follow through on the palate of this supple, smooth Niagara Pinot Noir. Only 220 cases of this wine were made, thus the name small lots. The grapes are managed by winemaker Emma Carmen for low yields which concentrates the flavor in the grapes and therefore in the wine. The vines are planted in a small appellation in Niagara called the Beamsville Bench which produces some of the region's finest wine. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, veal Porterhouse steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 461566 13.4% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jackson-Triggs Grand Reserve Meritage 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Wow, what a spectacular red wine blend of Cabernet and Merlot grapes! This Niagara producer has made the most of the amazing 2015 vintage. Complex, concentrated, rich and satisfying with a long finish. Loaded with dark fruit and smoke. Highly recommended. Meritage food pairings: grilled red meats, gourmet sausages, meatlover's pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2023 594002 12.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casa-Dea Estates Winery Pinot Noir 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This wine gets better every year. Love the sweet cherry and tart cranberry aromas and flavours on this Prince Edward County Pinot Noir aka the heartbreak grape because it's so difficult to grow and make. Silky and smooth with lots of acidity for roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, black bean soup. Drink: 2018 - 2022 296210 12.4% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Limestone Ridge-North Riesling 2015, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: From Ontario's Twenty-Mile Bench, this is the third release from Limestone Ridge, the organically and biodynamically farmed vineyard. There is mouth-watering acidity on this Riesling and it is a perfect match for seafood dishes such as seared scallops, or with mild vegetable curries. A lovely off-dry Niagara Riesling with notes of lemongrass and lime zest and petrol (like it). Tawse has developed a much-deserved first-class reputation among Niagara winemakers. Pair with fresh seafood and shellfish. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon. Drink: 2018 - 2022 431593 10% M 750 mL $24.25 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Montes Alpha Pinot Noir 2015, Aconcagua Coast, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: The 2015 vintage of this Montes Alpha is a vibrant Chilean Pinot Noir from the Casablanca Valley, Aconcagua Coast wine region. This is a full-bodied, juicy pinot noir with fleshy ripe cherry and berry aromas. Montes is a flagship producer for Chile, and their wines are always incredibly well priced, superb quality and taste. Its juicy and generous but balanced with some terrific acidity for planked salmon or roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: planked salmon, roast chicken, pork tenderloin, pizza, beef. Drink: 2018 - 2021 143214 14% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tabalí Talinay Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Limarí Valley, Chile: A zesty medium-bodied New Zealand Sauvignon with lots of fresh cut grass flavours and loaded with acidity. Pair with shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: goat cheese salad, seafood Alfredo, onion tarte. Drink: 2017 - 2019 542241 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Carmen Gran Reserva Carmenère 2015, El Peñasco Vineyard, Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile: The 2015 vintage of the Carmen Gran Reserva is made from mostly Carmenère grapes, and the wine is matured in French oak for 10 months. The soils in which this full-bodied Chilean Carmenère is planted are granitic (granite) and well-suited to the deeply penetrating Carmenère vine roots. Shallower soils and steep slopes moderate the vines' vigour and concentrate flavour. The climate in Apalta is also ideal for this varietal with 29 to 33 degree Celsius average daytime temperatures a and mild nights during the growing season. Finishes with dark spices and vanilla smoke. This classic Chilean red wine is savoury, dark and complex with a chewy, full-bodied mid-palate. Layers of black fruit with a long finish. The Carmenère grapes are sourced from the El Peñasco Vineyard. Superbly crafted for this price. Great structure and persistence of flavours on the finish. Pair with prime rib. Carmenère food pairings: lamb, pasta, venison, char-grilled burgers, tamarind-marinated steaks.. Drink: 2018 - 2022 439166 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Emiliana Coyam Organic Red 2013, Los Robles, Colchagua Valley, Chile: This beautifully structured, full-bodied Chilean red wine offers complex aromas of pencil led, smoke, cassis, wild blackberry and wild violets. Superbly balanced with great structure. Pair with rare filet mignon. The 2013 vintage of this Chilean red wine is a robust blend of 48% syrah, 24% carmenere, 11% merlot, 10% cabernet sauvignon, 3% mourvèdre and 3% malbec and 1% petit verdot grapes. Great structure and length showing ripe, dark fruit and with a nutty and long finish. Food pairings: roast leg of venison with sautéed mushrooms and sweet onions, roast pheasant, fried wild rabbit on toast. Drink: 2017 - 2020 63891 14.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ravanal Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Colchagua Valley, Chile: A savoury, juicy, full-bodied Chilean red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Aromas of black plum and toasty oak. The wine is aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels. Polished tannins. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled venison steak, slow-braised beef long ribs, roast pheasant. Drink: 2018 - 2022 542183 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Louis Bernard 2015, Vacqueyras, Rhône A.P., France: Dried tobacco leaf and cigar box smoke on the nose and palate from judicious oak aging on this robust southern French red wine from the Rhone Valley. Black charry plums and berries. Relatively polished tannins. Made primarily from Grenache and Syrah grapes, this Vacqueyras wine has a dense texture with spicy notes on the finish. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: roast pork, roasted root vegetables and Tyroller bacon, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2018 - 2022 546051 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alphonse Mellot Les Herses Sancerre Blanc 2014, Loire Valley, France: Incredibly juicy and mouth-watering acidity on this fresh French white wine from the Loire Valley region of Sancere. Made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Medium-bodied. Pair with seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2017 - 2019 518290 13% XD 750 mL $59.00 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Georges Duboeuf Domaine Mont Chavy 2014, Morgon, Beaujolais A.C., France: Franck and Cyrille Chavy are fourth-generation winemakers on this Morgon grand cru estate in Beaujolais, with their father Henri. The vines are planted in the "charmes" and "corcelette" climats. The wine undergoes a 6-12 day maceration to increase the intensity and complexity of flavour. Juicy and mouth-watering with blackberries and a pleasantly long finish. Surprisingly full-bodied for Beaujolais and the Gamay grape, but then again, the Morgon region is among the best of Beaujolais and capable of producing great wines like this one. Pair this with holiday turkey. Food pairings: gourmet burgers, grilled game sausages, vegetarian pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2019 276477 12.8% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Comte A. De Dampierre, A.C., Champagne, France: Toasty and crisp with deep aromas of ripe pear and hazelnut. Lovely long finish. Food pairings: shellfish, caviar, soft cheeses. 93146 12% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé 2015, Burgundy A.C., France: Classic French Burgundy (Chardonnay) with green apple, white peach and a sniff of smoke. So elegant and crisp. Perfect with a variety of dishes from roast chicken to seafood in cream sauce. Pouilly-Fuissé food pairings: grilled chicken, lobster dishes, egg dishes, quiches. Drink: 2018 - 2022 732917 13% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hervé Azo Chablis 2015, Burgundy A.C., France: Crisp and clean unoaked Old World Chardonnay from northern Burgundy with a lime finish. Pair with roast turkey. Chablis food pairings: roast turkey, pork tenderloin, crab cakes with garlic aioli, pan-fried panfish. Drink: 2018 - 2022 185736 12.2% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Sylvain Langoureau 2015, Saint-Aubin, Burgundy A.C., France: A generously oaked Old World Burgundian Chardonnay from the appellation of Saint-Aubin located west of the Burgundian villages of Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne Montrachet. Golden apple on the palate. Full-bodied with caramel and toffee on the finish. Pair with roast chicken. Food pairings: roasted stuffed chicken, roast pork tenderloin with apple sauce, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 538454 13.8% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coudoulet De Beaucastel Côtes-Du-Rhône 2015, Côtes-Du-Rhône, Rhône A.C., France: In 1687, the wine estate of Pierre de Beaucastel was ennobled by King Louis XIV, and has continued its august heritage in the history of Rhone Valley winemaking. This is a spectacular southern French red wine with 30 hectares of vineyards planted just east of the flagship vineyard Chateau de Beaucastel in the Rhone Valley thus it's often called "baby Beaucastel." Full-bodied with fleshy ripe blackberry jam and black raspberry preserves aromas and flavours. Rich and layered. Pair with roast beef. Côtes-Du-Rhône food pairings: braised meats, herbed steaks, venison. Drink: 2018 - 2026 48884 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sabot De Vénus Apremont 2016, Savoie A.C., France: Dry and crisp with aromas of grapefruit and white melon. Lots of mouth-watering acidity for shellfish. Medium-bodied. Food pairings: grilled chicken breast, cold turkey sandwiches, pan-fried panfish. Drink: 2018 - 2020 538371 11.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Umberto Cesari Riserva Sangiovese 2014, 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: 2018 - 2022 33399 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Donatella Cinelli Colombini Brunello Di Montalcino 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Savoury, tart and pleasantly bitter with sour cherry and smoky, dusty earth notes. Medium-bodied. The vines that produce the grapes for this wine are planted in clay and stone soils. Lovely, long finish. Love the Band-Aid aromas on the nose -- I sometimes get that from fine Bordeaux and is related to the oak aging. Love the maturity on this wine. Pair with grilled meats. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2018 - 2028 113357 14% XD 750 mL $64.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Feudi San Pio Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2015, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: This robust Italian red wine is a blend of Corvina and other native grapes. Amarone in style without Amarone's price. Smooth, supple and tasty. Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: linguini marinara, slow-braised lamb shanks with tomato and garlic, tomato garlic and clam sauce over penne. Drink: 2018 - 2023 181446 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cogno Ravera Barolo 2012, Piedmont Docg, Italy: The 2012 vintage of Elvio Cogno's Barolo Ravera is a blockbuster. Aromas of of tanned leather, cigar box and dried leaves. Pair with rissotto dishes and game meats. The 2012 Ravera grapes come from 70 year-old vines, 60% from the Lampia clone and 40% from the Michet clone. Tannins are starting to come together though this could age another 8-10 years. Decant 102 hours and pair with rare meats. Drink: 2019 - 2027 216341 14.3% XD 750 mL $72.00 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Re Manfredi Taglio del Tralcio Aglianico 2013, Basilicata Doc, Italy: Purple and black plum aromas, with dark spice and anise. This full-bodied Italian red wine produced by Folonari and bottled by Terre Degli Svevi, has a great smooth, supple texture. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2020 538470 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella Classico 2015, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Lots of mouth-watering acidity and sour cherry on the nose and palate. Cries out for a tangy tomato sauce. Valpolicella Classico food pairings: hard cheeses, spaghetti Bolognese, veal piccatta. Drink: 2018 - 2020 23259 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

CASCINA PIAN D'OR AZIENDA AGRICOLA DI BARBERO VALTER Moscato D'asti 2016, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: So pretty and honeysuckle floral. A light-bodied wine with some frizzante spritz. Perfect for an after-dinner dessert drink that's low in alcohol at 5%. You can also pair with it fruit flans and cobblers. Moscato D'asti food pairings: curries, pad Thai, sushi, rose petal torte. Drink: 2017 - 2019 378380 5% S 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kellerei Eisacktal Cantina Valle Isarco St. Magdalena Pinot Grigio 2016, Südtirol - Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: Italian Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige in northern Italy. This cool-climate Italian white wine is made from the country's classic white grape Pinot Grigio by Cantina Produttori Bolzano. Zesty and citrus bright with backbone and terrific mouth-watering zesty acidity. Crisp, vibrant northern Italian Pinot Grigio. Lemongrass and lime aromas. Lemon zest, and some green apple. 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 - 2019 249466 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castelforte Corvina 2014, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: A full-bodied, straight-forward red with attractive aromas and flavours of dark red fruit and some smoke. Pair with hamburgers. Corvina food pairings: pasta in a marinara sauce, veal parmesan, fricassee rabbit. Drink: 2018 - 2020 230649 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Carpineto Chianti Classico 2015, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Mocha, earth, dust and smoky oak on the nose. Full-bodied Italian red wine with tart black cherries, leather, earth and toasty oak on the palate. I prefer the 2012, 2010 and 2009 vintages, but this is solid. Chianti Classico food pairings: linguini marinara, slow-braised lamb shanks with tomato and garlic, tomato garlic and clam sauce over penne. Drink: 2017 - 2023 356048 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Kevin Judd, of Cloudy Bay wine fame, produces this signature 2016 New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with classic herbal aromas, lemon grass and light green vegetable aromas with mouth-watering acidity. Such a food friendly wine. Greywacke is a type of sandstone that is hard and dark in color. It has different sized grains of quartz, feldspar, and small rock fragments set in a compact, fine clay matrix. It is mostly found in Palaeozoic strata. Fresh and captivating with nervy acidity for shellfish. The name of this winery, Greywacke, is actually pronounced Greywacky. Kevin Judd produces this signature New Zealand Sauvignon Blanch with classic herbal aromas, fresh cut grass and asparagus with mouth-watering juiciness. Zesty, crisp, clean and medium-bodied. Ultra-refreshing as an aperitif or companion to line-caught halibut. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cheese, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, turkey pot pie. Drink: 2018 - 2020 164228 13% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kim Crawford Pinot Gris 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A fresh, crisp New Zealand white wine made from the Pinot Gris grape. We generally associate kiwi whites with Sauvignon Blanc, but Pinot Gris is equally refreshing and also does well in a cool climate. This 2017 Kim Crawford Pinot Gris offers aromas of lime, Asian pear and lemongrass. Pair with seafood, shellfish and wonderful performances of the Cirque du Soleil. Pinot Gris food pairings: grilled lobster tail in butter, stir-fried shrimp, grilled salmon. Drink: 2018 - 2020 369850 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Invivo Pinot Noir 2016, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: From the Central Otago on the South Island of New Zealand, the 2016 vintage of the Invivo is spicy, red and black cherry and a touch of vanilla on the nose. Drink now and for the next couple of years. Mocha and fleshy sweet cherry on the nose and palate of this luscious medium-bodied satin-smooth red wine from New Zealand made from the classic Pinot Noir grape. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb tangine, filet mignon of venison, rib steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 466029 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Gloria Riserva 2015, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: A juicy and delicious Portuguese red wine blend with aromas of fleshy black plum and blackberries. Full-bodied and fairly smooth. The grapes are grown in the Douro Valley in the northeast of Portugal. The wine was aged in oak barrels. Food pairings: slow-braised brisket, roast goose, grilled rack of lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2021 146522 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Glenelly Lady May Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Juicy ripe black plum aromas and flavours on the nose and palate of this this delightful South African Cabernet Sauvignon. Supple on the palate and full-bodied but balanced. The label shows a sculpture by the French artist Maxim Real Del Sarte of the winemaker May de Lencqesaing when she was just 23 years old. This wine is aged for 24 months in new French old barrels. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled game burgers, meatlover's pizza, bobtje. Drink: 2018 - 2021 480426 14.5% D 750 mL $55.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Graham Beck Brut Zero 2011, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: One of South Africa's best producers of sparkling wine, and it shows in this example. Toasty, crisp and fresh with aromas of golden apple and brioche. Pair with shellfish. Food pairings: fresh steamed shrimp, seafood bites, freshly steamed shellfish. Drink: 2018 - 2020 435453 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spier Wines Vintage Selection Chenin Blanc 2015, Swartland, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: A lovely lanolin rich South African Chenin Blanc with lemon beeswax and honeydew. Pair with seafood. Chenin Blanc food pairings: oysters, grilled white fish, chicken, pasta with pesto sauce. Drink: 2015 - 2018 648097 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nederburg Manor House Shiraz 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Delicious, dark and deep. Perfect for coffee-rubbed steaks. A rich, full-bodied, coffee laden red wine that's been generously oaked. Shiraz food pairings: espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, lamb cutlets, burgers with blue cheese, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2017 - 2020 68775 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Neil Ellis Pinotage 2015, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: A robust, juicy, savoury South African red wine made form the Pinotage grape. Firm tannins that will benefit from decanting 1-2 hours. The grapes are sourced from several vineyards. Aromas of ripe black plums. Pair with a pepper steak. Pinotage food pairings: prime rib, rare steaks, grilled herb-rubbed bavette steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 542167 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Atteca Garnacha 2015, Catalunya D.O., Spain: This wine is made from garnacha grapes grown on vines 80 to 120 years old. Mocha, espresso notes encase the fleshy blackberry. Garnacha food pairings: grilled cheese sandwiches, roast chicken, Salisbury steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 103473 14.6% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

López De Haro Crianza 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: From the Rioja wine region López de Haro Crianza (2010) has a great price point for a full-bodied, earthy and robust Rioja red. The 2013 vintage is a blend of 93% Tempranillo and 7% Grenache grapes and was matured for 18 months in French and American oak barrels. A smoky, full-bodied Spanish red wine with dried herbs, dust and earth. Not fruity. Smooth and offering a long finish. Classic. Leather aromas, love it. Pair with lamb. The vines grow on the hillside of the historic village of San Vicente de la Sonsierra flanked by the River Ebro. Food pairings: meatloaf, lentil patties, Italian style pizza, salami, veal shanks, charcuterie. Drink: 2018 - 2022 377481 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Paco & Lola Albariño 2016, Rías Baixas D.O., Spain: Aromas of lemongrass, lime peel and chives. Lots of racy acidity on this bone-dry wine. Perfect for all types of seafood dishes. Clean, crisp and zesty Spanish white wine made from the country's iconic white varietal Albariño. The grapes are estate grown and bottled. Albariño food pairings: linguine with crab meat, falafel, grilled veggies, hearty soups and stews. Drink: 2016 - 2019 350041 13% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Cannonball Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, California, United States: Sweet chocolate hits you on the nose first followed by smoky campfire aromas. The palate is round and supple with lots of sweet chocolate and mocha notes. Cannonball (on the label) represents freedom: the child with legs tucked up underneath him as he dives into the water. Lots of fleshy ripe black fruit here in this big Californian Cabernet. Full-bodied with some herbal notes. Lots of mocha, cocoa, cola, and smoke from generous oak aging. Good tannin structure and balance. Pair with Beef daube. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled burgers, Margherita pizza, pepper steaks, smoky ribs. Drink: 2017 - 2024 291666 13.8% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Hess Collection 19 Block Mountain Cuvée 2015, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United States: The 2015 vintage of the Hess Collection 19 Block Mountain Cuvée is a red wine blend of 61% Malbec, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance in Petit Verdot and Syrah, all from the estate on Mt. Veeder in the Napa Valley. This is a terrific, juicy Californian red wine with savoury, black fruit and smoke. 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 Veeder. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: grilled meats, meat lover's pizza, meaty stews. Drink: 2018 - 2022 18879 14.5% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Walt Blue Jay Pinot Noir 2015, Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California, United States: Lots of sweet cherry and berry aromas and flavours on this full-bodied, supple, smooth Californian Pinot from the cool climate of the Anderson Valley. Pair with veal. Pinot Noir food pairings: mushroom risotto, braised pork shanks, veal chops, slow-cooked lamb ribs. Drink: 2017 - 2020 518217 15.8% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Crossbarn Pinot Noir 2014, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: From master winemaker Paul Hobbs, this luscious Californian Pinot Noir offers fleshy ripe cherry-berry aromas and flavours. Lovely texture. Pair with veal. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast rack of lamb, rare roast beef, venison burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2023 522938 14.9% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel 2015, Lodi, California, United States: A rich, full-bodied Californian red wine made from the state's classic Zinfandel grape. Aromas of mocha, chocolate and smoke from generous oak aging. Some dark fruit and spice on the finish. Pair with barbecued ribs. Zinfandel food pairings: spaghetti Bolognaise, aged cheddar, grilled lamb loin, grilled duck breast, Italian sausage burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2019 678698 14.5% D 750 mL $15.75 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pinot Noir Stolen Identity Williamette V(Nexus) 2014, Oregon, United States: Lots of mocha, coffee and chocolate on the nose and palate of this generously oak aged Oregon Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley. Some toasted almond and figs on the finish. Pair with roast chicken. 536797 13.1% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Lovely balance with classic cassis and blackberry aromas in this California Cabernet. Plush, mouth-watering and celebratory. Great dinner party wine as it's subtle not in your face. While this wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, there's also a dash of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec in the blend. Great balance and finish. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, grilled game sausages. Drink: 2018 - 2024 642207 14.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Peter Franus Brandlin Vineyard Zinfandel 2014, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United States: A huge, blockbuster Californian Zinfandel with aromas of ripe purple and black plums and blueberries. Supple and smooth. Winemaker Peter Franus has been making Zinfandel from fruit grown in the Brandlin Vineyard since 1991, planted on a hillside 1200 feet above the valley floor. The grapes from the 85-year-old vines produce concentrated flavours. Pair with grilled meats a barbecued wings. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled feta-stuffed lamburgers, tourtière, rich, meaty stews with tomato sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2022 57331 14.8% XD 750 mL $57.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Newton Chardonnay 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: A Classic California Chardonnay that was not filtered before bottling and displays immense creaminess. Gorgeous mouth-filling texture. Rich and voluptuous with fleshy peach, pear and butterscotch. Chardonnay food pairings: poached white fish in white wine sauce, smoked kippers with lemon sauce, pan-fried trout. Drink: 2018 - 2020 1537 14.5% D 750 mL $78.00 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mount Veeder Reserve 2013, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley, California, United States: A stunning high altitude Californian red wine from winemaker Janet Myers. This baby could still use some cellar time, and even then be sure to decant 1-2 hours. Aromas of dark fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: standing rib roast, bison burgers, game stews. Drink: 2018 - 2025 21124 14.9% XD 750 mL $89.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


© 2024 Natalie MacLean