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Wine Picks July 4, 2018

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Note: This batch of wine reviews is not part of the bi-weekly Vintages Releases. Instead, it's a collection of wines outside the Vintages section in store (general list) or wines sent to me directly from wineries that may not yet be available in liquor stores. Click on the Winery or Wine Agency link to get more info.

Dessert Wine

Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port 2014, Douro Valley, Portugal: The 2014 Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port offers concentrated aromas of blackberry, black cherry, smoke and toasted nuts. It's a full-bodied, fortified dessert wine. Perfect as an after-dinner sipper. Drink: 2017 - 2023 46946 19% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Fairview Cellars Eagle Bluff Estates Crooked Post Pinot Noir 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, elegant, supple BC Pinot Noir with aromas of fleshy ripe dark cherry and smoke. Medium-bodied with a silk texture on the tongue. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2024 13% D 750 mL Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stag's Hollow Winery & Vineyard Dolcetto 2016, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely medium-bodied, juicy BC red wine made from the Dolcetto grape. Aromas of tart cherry and earth. Perfect for a tangy tomato sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2022 12.9% XD 750 mL $18.99 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lake Breeze Vineyards Meritage 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A smoky, toasty, full-bodied BC red wine blend of Cabernet and Merlot grapes. Supple and juicy with lots of layers of pleasure. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2023 14% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cassini Cellars Collectors Series Maximus 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A stunning red wine from the Okanagan Valley. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 56%, Cabernet Franc 12%, Merlot 28% and Malbec 4% grapes delivers so much pleasure on the nose, palate and finish. Aromas of fleshy ripe plums and toasty oak. Decant 1 hour and pair with rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2024 303016 14.9% D 750 mL $36.25 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Intersection Winery Silica Merlot 2013, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, full-bodied BC red wine made from Merlot grapes. This wine was not filtered, leaving lots of flavour and character in the bottle. Aromas of ripe black plums and smoke. This wine was aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. Decant 1 hour and pair with rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.8% XD 750 mL Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Tempranillo 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Black cracked pepper and fleshy ripe dark plums on the nose and palate of this gorgeous BC red wine made from Tempranillo grapes. Full-bodied and supple. Pair with pepper steak. Drink: 2018 - 2024 17729 13.1% XD 750 mL $60.00 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Pinot Noir 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A smooth, medium-bodied, supple BC Pinot Noir with aromas of fleshy ripe cherry and earth. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2022 251835 12.4% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kettle Valley Winery, Ltd. Hayman John's Block Pinot Noir 2014, Naramata, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, luscious BC Pinot Noir with aromas of dark cherry and smoke. Medium-bodied with a supple, silky texture. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Upper Bench Estate Winery Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A generous, juicy BC red wine that's 95% Cabernet and 5% Merlot grapes.The wine was aged for 21 months in French oak barrels, of which 30% was new. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberry and plums with smoke. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2019 14.7% XD 750 mL $46.10 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blasted Church Vineyards Holy Moly Petit Verdot 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy, succulent BC red wine made from 100% Petit Verdot grapes. Only 225 cases produced. Aromas of black pepper, spice and fleshy ripe black plums. So tasty. Pair with confessions and red meats. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Robin Ridge Winery Merlot 2013, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A plush, juicy BC Merlot with aromas of fleshy ripe black plum and blackberry. Medium-bodied and supple on the palate with a nice finish. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $24.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lake Breeze Vineyards Merlot 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, succulent BC Merlot with fleshy ripe black plums and blackberries. Some smoke and spice. Full-bodied, smooth and supple. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $24.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Time Estate Winery Syrah 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Luxurious, supple and layered with a velvet texture. This BC red wine made from Syrah grapes over-delivers. Aromas of fleshy black plums and berries. Full-bodied. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13.8% XD 750 mL $35.00 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Corcelettes Estate Winery Reserve Pinot Noir 2017, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A plush, ripe, delicious BC Pinot Noir with aromas of fleshy ripe black cherries and spice. Medium-bodied, supple and smooth. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13.5% D 750 mL $30.35 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Cellar Hand Punch Down Red Merlot Blend 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, luscious BC red wine full-bodied blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Cabernet Franc grapes. Aromas of campfire smoke, mocha and black plum on this BC red wine produced by Black Hills Winery. Cellar hands are winemaker's assistants. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13.2% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stag's Hollow Winery & Vineyard Syrah 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A supple, generous velvet-textured BC red wine made from Syrah grapes. The wine was neither filtered nor fined leaving in all the good character and flavour. Aromas of ripe black plums and dark spice. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $35.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Widow Winery Single Vineyard Merlot 2016, Naramata, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous, full-bodied BC red wine made from Merlot grapes. Aromas of black plums and dark spice. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 15.1% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kettle Valley Winery, Ltd. Old Main Red 2014, Naramata, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific BC red wine robust blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec grapes. The fruit is grown mostly in the Old Main Vineyard with Petit Verdot and Malbec grown in the King Drive vineyard. The wine is matured in French oak for 22 months before to bottling. Aromas of ripe cassis, blackberry, plum and dark spice. Long finish. Decant 1 hour and pair with steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Haywire Winery Canyonview Pinot Noir 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A plush, juicy BC Pinot Noir that was "raised in concrete" meaning that it was aged in concrete tanks for 11 months, after being fermented with wild yeasts. This is the fourth vintage of their Canonview Pinot Noir made from grapes planted in a small vineyard overlooking the Trout Creek Canyon. Aromas of fleshy ripe strawberries, cherries and wild berries with some spice. Medium-bodied, juicy and smooth. Pair with veal, grilled chicken and happy gatherings. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13% D 750 mL $45.00 Score: 94/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Robin Ridge Winery Gamay 2014, Similkameen, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: The best Canadian Gamay I've tasted to date (and there have been a lot ;) Medium-bodied, peppery with fleshy ripe dark plums. Supple and smooth. Only 13 barrels produced. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2016 - 2020 14% D 750 mL $24.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stag's Hollow Winery & Vineyard Renaissance Meritage 2015, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A stunning, full-bodied BC red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. Aromas of dark fruit, smoke and toasty oak. A lovely juicy acidity for tangy meat sauces. Drink: 2018 - 2023 14.3% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Perseus Winery Cabernet Merlot 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied BC red wine blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. Herbals aromas on the nose with toast and smoke. Ripe black plums on the palate and finish. Pair with roast beef and prime rib. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.1% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Upper Bench Estate Winery Estate Grown Merlot 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, supple, smooth, complex BC Merlot. Aromas of ripe black plums and dark spice.Cropped low at 3.21 tons per acre and fermented in 700 litre wooden vats then cellared in French oak barrels. Only 141 cases produced. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.4% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Widow Winery Syrah 2016, Naramata, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy and succulent BC Syrah with sweet blackberry aromas and flavours. Supple and smooth with a velvet texture. Juicy acidity for tangy meat sauces. Lovely! Drink: 2018 - 2023 14.8% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Elephant Island Orchard Wines Think Again Merlot 2014, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, succulent BC Merot with aromas of ripe black plum, wild blackberry and spice. Supple and smooth. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.9% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blasted Church Vineyards Cross to Bear Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy ripe red wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Sweet blackberry and cassis aromas. Supple and smooth. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13.5% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Young & Wyse Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Osoyoos, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, savoury, juicy BC red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Lots of toasty oak from oak barrel aging. Black fruit and spice. Dense, chewy tannins. Finishes with cedar smoke. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nagging Doubt Pinot Noir 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Sweet cherry pie on the nose and palate of this lovely BC Pinot Noir. Wild ferment 50% and aged 16 months in French oak barrels. Luscious and juicy and full-bodied with a satin texture. Perfect for grilled chicken. Drink: 2016 - 2022 13.6% D 750 mL Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sage Hill Vineyard & Winery Syrah 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: This robust, peppery BC red wine is made from 100% Syrah grapes that are organically farmed in the winery's low-yield vineyard just north of Oliver in the Okanagan Valley. The wine is aged for 2 years in French oak barrels. Aromas of dark fleshy ripe plums and smoke. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.1% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Deep Roots Winery Malbec 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Peppery with dark spice and fleshy ripe black plums. Sweet blackberries on the palate with smoke. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.4% D 750 mL $21.50 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

L.A. Cetto Winery Private Reserve Nebbiolo 2009, Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico, Mexico: After Italian producers, this Mexican winery is the world’s largest producer of wines made from the Nebbiolo grape. A mouthful of ripe berry and black fruit rewards drinkers of this supple, robust wine. Incredible concentration and depth. Pair with grilled meats. Incredibly great price for such quality and taste. Nebbiolo food pairings: hearty meats, pasta in tomato sauce, cheddar cheese, risotto with mushrooms, beef braised in Barolo. Drink: 2014 - 2022 590182 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Odyssey Merlot 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury and juicy BC Merlot with seductive aromas of ripe black plums and dark spice. Oh so yum. Supple and smooth and full-bodied. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2016 - 2021 14.2% D 750 mL Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied, juicy Californian red wine made from the classic Cabernet grape from a well-respected producer. Aromas of cassis and black currant and toast. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2016 - 2021 292151 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Perseus Winery Select Lots Malbec 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Spicy, racy and seductive with peppered wild forest blackberries in its dark heart. Robust, supple and smooth. The Malbec grapes for this BC red wine are grown in the southern Okanagan Valley on the Osoyoos Bench. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2017 - 2021 14.4% D 750 mL $29.99 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Arrowleaf Cellars Pinot Noir 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, juicy Pinot Noir that was aged in French oak barrels. Aromas of fleshy ripe red and dark cherry.Smooth, supple and medium-bodied. Perfect for veal or risotto. Drink: 2017 - 2023 13.5% D 750 mL Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lariana Cellars Thirteen 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A spicy, peppery, deeply delicious BC red wine that's a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah, and 12% Carmenere grapes. The grapes are fermented and aged separately for 8 months before blending. Total aging is 20 months in French oak barrels. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.5% D 750 mL $45.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos du Soleil Winery Celestiale 2014, Keremeos, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific, juicy BC red wine blend of 38% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. Aromas of cracked black pepper, fleshy ripe black plum and toasty oak. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.2% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

C.C. Jentsch Cellars The Chase 2014, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, savoury, juicy BC red wine blend of 34% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot grapes. Aromas of blackberry, cassis and toasty oak. Firm tannins. Decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2023 14.1% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery Kings Ransom Pinot Noir 2014, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied BC Pinot Noir with generous aromas of fleshy ripe black cherry and smoke. Even though the alcohol is high at 14.3%, this wine is balanced and tastes elegant. Velvet smooth mouth-feel and texture. Only 120 cases produced. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2024 14.3% D 750 mL $55.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vanessa Vineyard Meritage 2014, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, complex and layered BC red wine that's a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, with some Merlot grapes. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plums, espresso and graphite. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2023 385401 14.7% D 750 mL $39.99 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery King's Ransom Meritage 2014, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A spectacular BC Meritage! This red wine is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec for the 2014 vintage. The wine was aged 16 months in French and American oak barrels. Aromas of wild cassis, cigar box, graphite, tart blackberry and anise. Cellar this a few more years at least. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with rare meats. Drink: 2020 - 2027 15% XD 750 mL $65.00 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Poplar Grove Winery Syrah 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Dark, spicy and pepper BC red wine made from Syrah grapes. Aromas of grilled meat, bacon fat and black plum. So tasty. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with rack of lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% XD 750 mL $30.35 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Checkmate Artisanal Winery Silent Bishop Merlot 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia Bcvqa, Canada: A stunningly lush and layered BC Merlot, with only 12 barrels produced. Aromas of ripe black plum, black cherry, graphite and spice. Full-bodied and supple. Pair with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2018 - 2013 14% XD 750 mL $85.00 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

River Stone Estate Winery Stones Throw 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A robust BC red wine blend of 69% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec, and 5% Petit Verdot. This wine was aged for 14 months in French oak barrels. Aromas of cassis and blackberry with toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Decant 2 hours. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.3% XD 750 mL $24.25 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

C. C. Jentsch Cellars Syrah 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A sexy BC Syrah with aromas of black cherry liqueur on the nose and palate. Full-bodied with a velvet smooth texture. Some spice and smoke on the long finish. Pair with grilled lamb. Yum. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.9% D 750 mL $31.90 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Checkmate Artisanal Winery End Game Merlot 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A stunning BC red wine made from the Merlot grape. Checkmate Artisanal Winery sources their fruit from the Osoyoos East Bench and Black Sage Bench vineyards rooted in the renowned Golden Mile Bench in Oliver. Aromas of fleshy black plum, wild blackberry, dark spice and smoke. The 2013 vintage of the End Game has a long finish. Only twelve barrels were produced. Pair with rare meats. Drink: 2018 - 2023 14.5% XD 750 mL $85.00 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos du Soleil Winery Estate Red Reserve 2013, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, succulent BC red wine blend made from organically grown grapes and aged 18 months in French oak barrels. Aromas of ripe dark fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2017 - 2021 13.1% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vanessa Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2015, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, fresh and savoury cool-climate Cabernet Franc from BC. Aromas of black plum, blackberry, cedar woodland and smoke. Perfect for grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.1% XD 750 mL $49.99 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fairview Cellars Cabernet Franc 2016, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury and juicy BC Cabernet Franc with a fresh nose of wild swept wild blackberry. Mouth-watering, full-bodied and supple. Pair with roast beef. 14.2% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Fancy Farm Girl Flamboyant Red 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A savoury and juicy Niagara red wine blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc grapes. Mocha on the nose and fleshy ripe black plums on the palate. Pair with grilled pork chops. Food pairings: grilled pork chops, pork stuffed veal roast, smoked savoury ham. Drink: 2015 - 2019 394080 12.4% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Left Coast Cellars Cali's Cuvee Pinot Noir 2015, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: A medium-bodied Oregon red wine made from the classic grape Pinot Noir. Aromas of black cherry and smoke. Lots of racy acidity for tangy sauces. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon, duck, roast chicken, charcuterie, cheeses, mushrooms. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13622415 13.5% XD 750 mL $30.25 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Left Coast Cellars Rotie Syrah Noir 2015, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: A juicy, rich, full-bodied Oregon red wine made from 80% Syrah Noir grapes and 20% Viognier, which is a classic blend in the Rhone Valley of France, thus the Rotie on the label as a nod to its model. The two grapes are co-fermented, and the Viognier creates an enzymatic reaction within the fermentation that causes a deeper maceration and extraction of flavour from the grapes. Aromas of black juicy cherries and blackberries with some smoke and pepper. Pair with grilled meats and roast beef. Syrah Noir food pairings: grilled red meats, duck, charcuterie. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13.5% XD 750 mL $61.75 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Cabernet Franc 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This wine is named for the Horse Chestnut Tree that the winery's landscape for more than 100 years. The estate is 200 years old and winemaker Sue-Ann Staff is a firth generation winemaker. Aromas of dark fleshy plums and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Franc food pairings: lamb chops. Drink: 2017 - 2022 352393 13.1% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Bank Barn Baco Noir 2017, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This full-bodied, supple Niagara red wine is made from Baco Noir grapes. The wine is named for Bank Barn, which is the heart of this 200 year old estate. Aromas of black plums and dark berries and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. Baco Noir food pairings: blackened, smoked beef dishes, grilled radicchio, hamburgers. Drink: 2018 - 2021 22471 10.4% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Left Coast Cellars Latitude 45 Pinot Noir 2015, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: A rich and full-bodied Oregon red wine made from the classic grape Pinot Noir. Velvet texture, with lots of voluptuous layers on the palate. Aromas of black cherry and smoke. Lots of racy acidity for tangy sauces, veal and roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled salmon, duck, roast chicken, charcuterie, cheeses, mushrooms. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13.8% XD 750 mL $50.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Averill Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, Canada: This lovely, silky BC Pinot Noir is made from estate grown vines on a 30 acre Cowichan Valley vineyard. Aromas of fleshy ripe cherry and cranberry. Lots of layers and complexity. This wine was matured for 1 year in new, 2- and 3-year-old Burgundian oak barriques. Pair with truffle-accented dishes and grilled seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13% D 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Averill Creek Vineyard Somenos Pinot Noir 2014, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, Canada: A spectacular BC Pinot Noir with layers of pleasure, passion and complexity. Reminds me of the best Burgundian Pinots through the mid-palate -- a field of wild violets and truffles. Full-bodied and velvet smooth. Oh my. Pair with risotto, veal and duck comfit. Drink: 2018 - 2024 13.5% D 750 mL $50.00 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery Terraces Pinot Noir 2015, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, glorious BC Pinot Noir grown in terraces with a southwestern exposure in glacial rocky soil. Although the alcohol is high for Pinot Noir at 14.5%, this wine remains elegant and balanced. Aromas of ripe cherry and earth. Pair with venison. Drink: 2018 - 2023 14.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery Reserve Pinot Noir 2013, Creston, British Columbia, Canada: A silky, seductive BC Pinot Noir with a satin texture and deep sensuality. Medium-bodied, elegant with great finesse. Aromas of fleshy ripe cherry and smoke. Vines are planted in glacial soils. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2023 12.5% D 750 mL $50.00 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Joie Farm Pinot Noir 2015, Naramata, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A dark, earthy BC Pinot Noir with aromas of black cherry and smoke. Medium- to full-bodied with a velvet texture. The vines are low yielding with much canopy management. The wine is aged for 10 months in Burgundian oak barriques. Pinot Noir food pairings: spring vegetable pizza with goat cheese, sundried tomato, zucchini and red onion pizza,. Drink: 2018 - 2024 13.5% XD 750 mL $45.00 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

CedarCreek Estate Winery Meritage 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Full-bodied, juicy and delicious BC red wine blend of 38% Malbec, 37% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc grapes for the 2015 vintage. Aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry and smoke. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.5% D 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

CedarCreek Estate Winery Estate Merlot 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury and juicy with cedar smoke and black fruit. Full-bodied with firm tannins do decant for 1 hour. Pair with grilled pork chops. Merlot food pairings: grilled pork tenderloin. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.6% XD 750 mL $19.90 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosés

50th Parallel Estate Pinot Noir Rose 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely BC rose made from Pinot Noir grapes. Racy acidity for seafood. Aromas of fresh field strawberries. Medium-bodied and juicy. Drink: 2018 - 2020 13.6% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Fancy Farm Girl Foxy Pink Rosé 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, vibrant, fresh and light-bodied Niagara rosé that's a blend of 90% Riesling and 10% Cabernet Franc grapes. Aromas of tiny field strawberries. Dry, refreshing fun! Pair with with seared salmon or tuna. Drink: 2017 - 2019 469338 11% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Louis Eschenauer Cremant De Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France: A fresh, crisp French sparkling wine from Bordeaux. Aromas of golden apple and toast. Serve as a chilled aperitif. Drink: 2018 - 2021 543108 11.9% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Santa Carolina Reserva Chardonnay 2017, Casablanca Valley, Chile: A full-bodied, tasty Chilean Chardonnay with aromas of green apple and toasty oak. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken, fish, creamy pasta. Drink: 2018 - 2021 304022 13.5% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Fancy Farm Girl Frivolous White 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous, off-dry, light-bodied Niagara white wine made from the classic Riesling grape. Winemaker Sue-Ann Staff is a master of Riesling! Aromas of honeydew and lime blossom. Pair with medium curries and spices. Drink: 2017 - 2021 394072 11.5% M 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery The Louie Pinot Gris 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The 2016 was a warm vintage which shows in the richness and depth of this Niagara white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes. The wine is named for winemaker Sue-Ann Staff's great great uncle Lewis (Louie). It was fermented and aged in French oak barrels for 10 months. Aromas of white peach and melon. Pair with poultry, veal and appetizers. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Elisha's Chardonnay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Niagara white wine is made from Chardonnay grapes and is named for winemaker Sue-Ann Staff's great great grandfather Elisha Staff. This wine was aged in French oak barrels. Aromas of freshly baked bread with melting butter, golden apples and almond. Full-bodied and luscious. Pair with roasted chicken and turkey. Drink: 2018 - 2022 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

50th Parallel Estate Pinot Gris 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, medium-bodied BC white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes. Aromas of white melon and lemon zest. Racy acidity for seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2018 - 2021 14% D 750 mL $21.54 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

50th Parallel Estate Chardonnay 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely toasted almond and freshly baked bread on the nose and palate of this full-bodied BC Chardonnay. Aromas of golden apple and white peach. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14% D 750 mL $21.54 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

50th Parallel Estate Riesling 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy BC Riesling bursting with flavour: aromas of peach, lime blossom and apricot. Mouth-watering with racy acidity for seafood. Medium-bodied and absolutely delicious. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13.1% D 750 mL Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Chenin Blanc 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Love this juicy, succulent BC white wine! Racy mouth-watering acidity for seafood and shellfish in this crisp, vibrant BC Chenin Blanc. Notes of green apple and white pear. Chenin Blanc food pairings: aperitif wine that pairs exceptionally well with fresh seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2021 391854 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Chasselas Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada: A terrific and vibrant BC white wine blend of Chasselas, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris grapes. White floral aromatics with some white peach on the finish. Off-dry but the racy acidity makes that barely perceptible. Medium-bodied with terrific balance. Pair with fresh seafood and mild curries. Chasselas Pinot Blanc Pinot Gris food pairings: fish tacos with avocado and buttermilk dressing; baked onion tart with creme fraiche. Drink: 2018 - 2020 12% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Game Changer The Visionary White 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, mouth-watering Niagara white wine blend. Aromas of honeysuckle, apricot and peach. Medium-sweet with luscious layers of flavour. Great price. Pair with Asian dishes and curries. Food pairings: linguine with clams and fennel, stuffed roasted turkey, Asian dishes, grilled seafood. Drink: 2017 - 2019 485607 10% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Oceans Pinot Grigio 2017, Western Cape, South Africa: A clean, crisp, zesty South African white wine made from the Pinot Grigio grape. Aromas of white melon and grapefruit. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2019 295022 12.5% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 85/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Roof Manor Pinot Grigio 2017, Stellenbosch, South Africa: A zesty South African white wine made from Pinot Grigio grapes. Refreshing and lively with terrific notes of green melon, grapefruit, lime and white peach. Pair with shellfish or seafood. Pinot Grigio food pairings: enjoy on its own or with light salads or cold meats. Drink: 2017 - 2019 27128 12.5% D 750 mL $14.45 Score: 86/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Calmel & Joseph Villa Blanche Chardonnay 2016, Igp Pays D'oc, Languedoc-Roussillon, France: It's little wonder that this wine won gold at the World Chardonnay Competition, yet it's so affordably priced. A terrific white wine from southern France that offers crisp minerality and refreshment, unusual for Chardonnay these days. Lots of lime-bright acidity for food, yet there's also an underlying richness and fullness to the wine that is mouth-filling and delicious! Very versatile with food, from fresh seafood to roast chicken or pork chops. Drink: 2017 - 2020 375071 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.15 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Gewurztraminer 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific BC white wine made from the highly aromatic Gewurztraminer grape. Medium-bodied with aromatic notes of white florals, daisies, lilies, baking spice and lychee. Subtle and delicious. Just enough acidity for many dishes like Asian fare, mild to medium curries and spices. Gewurztraminer food pairings: seared scallops over a bed of butter leaf lettuce & a cucumber, dill & pink grapefruit vinaigrette. Drink: 2018 - 2021 585745 13% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Fancy Farm Girl Frissonesque Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A crisp, dry, mouth-watering Niagara Sauvignon Blanc with racy acidity for seafood and shellfish. Aromas of grass, lemon, grapefruit and chives. Pair with asparagus, spring peas, salads, cheese pizza. Medium-bodied, no oak. Drink: 2016 - 2019 552059 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Caythorpe Family Estate Riesling 2017, Marlborough, New Zealand: This gorgeous, off-dry, ephemeral Zealand white wine is made from the classic Riesling grape. So delicate yet packed with flavour. Aromas of lime blossom, lemon and chives. Perfect for seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2018 - 2022 11.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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