Argentina
Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec 2015, Barrancas Vineyards, Mendoza, Argentina: This wine offers generous aromas of wild blackberry, toasty oak and cedar forest. Full-bodied and smooth. Lovely freshness on the nose of this full-bodied Argentine red wine made from the country's flagship red grape, Malbec. Decant 2 hours. Pair with grilled lamb. Malbec food pairings: savoury herb-rubbed roast, duck breast with celeriac purée, breaded veal cutlets, tagliatelle alla Bolognese, lamb burgers, spicy sausage.. Drink: 2018 - 2023 183897 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Australia
Credaro Five Tales Shiraz 2016, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: A robust Australian red wine made from the country's iconic Shiraz grape grown in the winery's Summus, Cellar Door and Carbunup River Vineyards. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Shiraz food pairings: kangaroo strip loin on the barbie, roast leg of venison, lamb chops smothered with roasted garlic and wild mushrooms. Drink: 2018 - 2022 491068 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Teusner The Riebke Shiraz 2016, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: The 2016 vintage of the Riebke is a blockbuster Barossa Shiraz produced by the Riebke brothers in the Ebenezer district of the Barossa Valley. The grapes grow on old, low yielding vines and the family has made wine for six generations. Kym Teusner is winemaker. Look for dark, ripe fruits, savoury spice on this full-bodied big red. This wine offers minty blackberry and toasty oak on the nose with a good grip on the palate. Barossa is Australia's heartland for Shiraz. This one offers great complexity and a long finish. Pair with prime rib. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, black bean soup, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2024 48470 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Leeuwin Prelude Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Savoury with dried herbs on the nose and palate. Racy acidity for tangy meat sauces. Full-bodied with some tannic grip so decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot food pairings: grilled flat iron steak, grilled pork chops, meatlover`s pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2025 986133 13.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mr. Riggs Outpost Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Aromas of fleshy ripe red and black plums and berries with mocha and smoke. The red soils of the Coonawarra region make it famous for its Cabernet wines. Pair with a rare steak or prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled Porterhouse steak, roast breast of veal, grilled lamb chops, tourtière. Drink: 2018 - 2024 126896 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Austria
Loimer Grüner Veltliner 2016, Kamptal D.A.C., Austria: From Austria, this Gruner Veltliner from the Kamptal wine region is ripe pear and fresh herbs. The 2016 vintage of the Loimer Langenlois has a refreshing spritz in the wine with a zesty citrus acidity and white pepper on the nose. Very clean and very good with seafood. Crisp and fresh with terrific vibrant lime acidity. Medium-bodied. Grüner Veltliner food pairings: linguini with rose sauce, creamy green herb risotto, asparagus with fried egg. Drink: 2018 - 2023 142240 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Canada
Featherstone Phoenix 2017, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A rich, unctuous Niagara Gewurztraminer with baking spice aromas in a huge and lovely way, some musky rose petal but not a lot of lychee notes. Finishes with ginger spice. Try with mild curries. Food pairings: turkey or chicken breast, mild savoury cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2020 519025 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Megalomaniac Selfie 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp and clean, and delivering lots of delight. Pair with seafood. Food pairings: lemon and green herb crusted fried sole, baked sole with gooseberry coulee, pizza with cheese and arugula. Drink: 2018 - 2021 453506 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tinhorn Creek Chardonnay 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Balanced and supple with mouth-watering juiciness. Yellow apple and some toasted almond. Pair with grilled seafood. Chardonnay food pairings: linguini with rose sauce, creamy green herb risotto, asparagus with fried egg. Drink: 2018 - 2022 378489 13% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Henry of Pelham Riesling 2016, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A superbly well-made Niagara Riesling with juicy mouth-watering action for dishes from fresh seafood to roasted turkey. Notes of lime and lemon zest. Great price and value. Riesling food pairings: smoked salmon and chive cream cheese on baguette, oyster hotpot, mild curries. Drink: 2018 - 2022 557165 11.5% M 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Westcott Vineyards Estate Chardonnay 2016, Vinemount Ridge, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Terrific balance in this lovely, full-bodied Chardonnay that offers seductive aromas of toasted bread, green apple and smoke. Very Burgundian in its balance and elegance. This wine was aged in French oak barrels for 11 months, of which one-third was new. Pair with roasted chicken.
Chardonnay food pairings: Asian dishes with black bean, steamed mahi Mahi, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2018 - 2022 424507 12.6% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Reif Estate Winery Riesling 2016, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, savoury, mouth-watering Niagara Riesling with aromas of fresh lime and lemongrass. Perfect for seafood. Riesling food pairings: lighter fare like fish, poultry and vegetarian dishes, spicier food, Chinese or Thai. Drink: 2017 - 2021 111799 12% D 750 mL $13.75 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pelee Island Winery Mousseux de Pomme, Ontario, Canada: A delightful sparkling wine made from apples in southwestern Ontario. Pure apple essence in the glass with natural orchard sweetness. Enjoy on its own or with a fruit cobbler. Food pairings: pear saffron upside cake, apple cobbler, fruit flan. Drink: 2021 - 2022 556324 10% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. July 2018. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Megalomaniac Pink Slip Rosé 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very aromatic: big pink flavours up front, think pink grapefruit, pinkish peach and strawberries. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Great for the price. Rosé food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish. Drink: 2018 - 2020 85126 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Closson Chase Vineyard Chardonnay 2016, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific Prince Edward County Chardonnay from winemaker Keith Tyers. Robust, layered and complex with aromas of white peach, green apple and toasty oak. Lots of layers and pleasure. Balancing acidity and deep minerality. Long finish. Pair with game birds, poultry and veal. Chardonnay food pairings: ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, lobster in butter sauce, fish tacos, gougère. Drink: 2018 - 2024 148866 12.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Flat Rock The Rusty Shed Chardonnay 2016, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Full-bodied with so much going for it. On the nose this gold Chardonnay is baked apple dumpling, pear compote, fresh pastry and lemon. Love this Niagara Chardonnay: voluptuous but balanced. Chardonnay that is the liquid version of worn-in jeans. Comfy, familiar, just right. Almost full-bodied, this tongue-loving, caressing white wine will be perfect tonight when you kick back with some buttered popcorn and an old movie. Chardonnay food pairings: pan fried scallops, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2022 1552 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chile
Toro De Piedra Gran Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Colchagua Valley, Curicó Valley, Chile: Juicy, tasty and mouth-watering Chilean Cabernet. Amazing price. The Chilean wine region of the Curicó Valley has a reputation for producing excellent Cabernet Sauvignon due to its ideal climate. Good structure in this robust red wine which balances the fleshy black fruit. A smoky finish. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers, hearty meat dishes, hard cheeses. Drink: 2018 - 2024 39362 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maycas Del Limarí Limestone Coast Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2016, Limarí Valley D.O., Chile: The 2016 vintage of the Reserva Especial is a single vineyard selection Chardonnay from the Limarí Valley. Maycas Del Limarí Chardonnay was brought up in alluvial-clay, calcareous soils and good drainage. The wine spend 11 months in French oak Burgundy barrels. Bright yellow in colour, the wine is citrus, with ripe golden apple, white stone fruit and a hint of hazelnut nuttiness from judicious oak treatment. Full-bodied intensity and concentration on this delicious Chilean Chardonnay. Butterscotch, freshly baked bread and golden apple. Pair with roast chicken. Pair with smoked salmon eggs Benedict, or on its own. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled scallops, hand-peeled, fresh steamed shrimp sandwiches, chicken Caesar. Drink: 2018 - 2020 143768 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ritual Pinot Noir 2015, Casablanca Valley, Chile: A lovely cherry-berry rich Chilean red wine made from the classic Pinot Noir grape. Supple and smooth with good balance. Reminds me of Carneros Pinot Noir, the cool climate of the Napa Valley. This winery hand harvests in small batches in the cool morning fog of the Casablanca Valley. They us gravity flow for gentler handling of the wine. Perfect for roast chicken or turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb chops, roast leg of lamb, roast duck. Drink: 2016 - 2025 514182 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
France
Bouvet-Ladubay Excellence Cremant De Loire, Loire A.C., France: A toasty, refreshing French sparkling wine that's well priced. Aromas of white pear, melon and pear. Toasty finish. Great value. Pair with fried chicken. Cremant De Loire food pairings: lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew, white turkey meat, tacos, seafood. Drink: 2017 - 2019 303636 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Chevallier Chablis 2016, Burgundy A.P., France: Intense minerality with a bright core of refreshment running through the heart of this zesty white wine. Ultra-dry Old World unoaked Chardonnay with mouth-watering acidity. Lime lift. Perfect foil for shellfish. Clean, crisp and refreshing. No oak. Finishes freshly with green apple. Try it with shellfish. Chablis food pairings: green salads topped with grilled prawns, lobster in butter sauce, cheese, poultry. Drink: 2018 - 2022 112227 12.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Roche Bazin 2014, Côtes De Bordeaux - Blaye, Bordeaux A.C., France: The winemaker for this robust Bordeaux red wine is Odile and Thierry Bazin. Lots of toasty oak on the nose and a firm tannic grip on the palate. Rustic, cedary, tannic and full-bodied, this Bordeaux red wine is tasty but could use 1-2 years in the cellar and then 1-2 hours of decanting to smooth it out. Pair with a pepper steak. Food pairings: pepper steak, slow-braised blade roast, rouladen. Drink: 2018 - 2022 416701 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ortas Prestige 2013, Rasteau, Rhône A.C., France: Full-bodied, juicy and smooth. Good value. A terrific, long, dry finish that leaves you longing for more. Pair with rack of lamb. Food pairings: slow-roasted crown of pork stuffed with corn niblets chickpea green onion and cilantro, stir-fried pork tenderloin, veal Parmigianino. Drink: 2018 - 2020 985929 14.5% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Carte D'or Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: A crisp, refreshing, muscular Champagne with notes of golden apple and freshly baked bread. A long, satisfying finish. Enjoy on its own or with shellfish. Champagne food pairings: seafood canapes, smoked salmon, salads. Drink: 2018 - 2020 726281 12.3% D 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Serge & Bruno Sourdais Le Logis De La Bouchardière 2016, Chinon, Loire A.C., France: This robust Loire Valley red wine is made from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes. Some herbal and bell pepper notes on the nose and palate with some tart berries. Pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: pepper steak, grilled lamb chops, Porterhouse veal chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 490375 13% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Clarence Dillon Clarendelle Red 2014, Bordeaux A.C., France: In 1935, Clarence Dillon purchased Chateau Haut-Brion and created an homage to the Francophile American Clarendelle, according to the back label. This wine is aged in oak barrels. A rustic, tannic Bordeaux red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Aromas of black fruit, toasty oak and dark spice. Pair with a rare steak or grilled lamb. Decant for 2 hours. Food pairings: grilled lamb chops, bison burgers, tourtière. Drink: 2018 - 2022 28837 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Tour De L'évêque Rosé 2017, Côtes De Provence, Provence A.C., France: Château La Tour De L'évêque 2017 is a Rosé from the Côtes De Provence in France. Made by Régine Sumeire, the wine is medium-bodied and bone dry. The wine blend is made from Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Rolle and Semillon wine grapes with fermentation in stainless steel tank. The vines from which this rosé is sourced have been organically farmed since 2005.This lively French rosé not only offers wild strawberry notes, it also has a little white pepper for intrigue and pleasure. Medium-bodied, dry from Régine Sumeire, Propreitor-récolt. One of the most respected rosé producers in Provence: consistently great year after year. Rosé food pairings: pan-fried pickerel, gravel, steamed shrimp with lemon butter. Drink: 2018 - 2020 319392 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jean-Max Roger La Grange Dîmière Sancerre Rosé 2017, Loire A.C., France: Dark raspberry and strawberry notes on this medium-bodied, juicy, mouth-watering French rose. Lots of acidity for planked salmon. Sancerre Rosé food pairings: cheese and deli plate, green salad with warm goat cheese and baby beets, salmon cakes. Drink: 2018 - 2020 490813 13.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mas des Bressades Cuvée Tradition 2017, Costières De Nîmes, Rhône A.P., France: Produced by Cyril Marès, prop.-vigneron in the Costières de Nîmes region where only 7% of wine made is white. This area is the southernmost appellation in the Rhône, and therefore summers are very hot, with more than 2,700 hours of sunshine every year, moderated only by cool breezes from the river delta called the Petite Camargue where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean. Dry, crisp and clean and excellently priced! If you like pinot grigio, give this white a try. Some terrific floral notes on the finish. In the early twentieth-century, the Marès family started making wine in Algeria, but later moved to Bordeaux to start Château Puy Castéra and then on to the Rhone in the Costières de Nîmes region for this coveted winery. This wine is a zesty blend of Grenache Blanc and Roussanne grapes. Try is with fresh seafood. Food pairings: steamed crab with lemon garlic butter sauce, seafood salad, mussel and clam soup. Drink: 2018 - 2022 701094 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Saint Aix Rosé 2017, Côteaux D'aix-En-Provence, Provence A.C., France: Such a lovely, delicate rose with fleeting notes of small, fresh, wild strawberries that run riot in an open field by a small stream. Medium-bodied and so fresh. Perfect as a mouth-watering aperitif or as a companion to seafood. Rosé food pairings: roast turkey, roast ham studded with cloves roasted in orange sauce, pork sausage casserole. Drink: 2018 - 2020 490904 13% XD 1500 mL $45.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joseph Cattin Pinot Gris 2016, Alsace A.C., France: The Cattin family has been making wine in Alsace since the 1850s. The lovely white wine finishes with green apple and baking spices. Perfect for Indian dishes, especially mild to medium spicy ones. A classic Alsatian Pinot Gris with spiced peach aromas and flavours. This off-dry French white wine from the northern region of Alsace won a Gold Medal at the 2013 Concours Général Agricole wine competition in Paris. Peach and wet stone aromas mingle on the nose in a hedonistic blend. Refreshing zesty acidity on the palate as an aperitif or with cold chicken sandwiches. Pair with pate or foie gras. Pinot Gris food pairings: sweet red Thai curry, chicken à l’orange, rich cheese, seafood, light pastas. Drink: 2018 - 2020 196956 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Italy
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2017, Valdadige, Alto Adige, Trentino D.O.C., Italy: Fresh, clean and crisp with sunshine bright aromas of lemon zest, lime blossom and white peach. Finishes with crisp lime citrus notes. Pair with grilled veggies. Pinot Grigio food pairings: shellfish, chicken, salads, basil pesto and pasta. Drink: 2018 - 2020 687558 12.5% XD 375 mL $10.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Planeta Nero D'avola 2012, Noto, Sicily D.O.C., Italy: The 2012 vintage of the Planeta is 100% Nero d'Avola grapes from Sicily, and grown in the white soils of Noto, a UNESCO heritage site. Seductive black plum, smoke and Oriental spices on the nose and palate. Deep, rich and concentrated southern Italian red wine blend from the sunny island of Sicily. Pair with grilled meats and barbecue. Nero D'avola food pairings: roast venison, rabbit stew, goose, onion and potato pie. Drink: 2018 - 2022 477190 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Maculan Pinot Grigio 2016, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Fresh and dry with white peach and lime aromas. Great aperitif. Perfect companion to vegetarian dishes. Zesty, vibrant Pinot Grigio from an Italian producer that's consistent year after year. Medium-bodied. Good aperitif. Pair with fresh seafood. Pinot Grigio food pairings: seafood, pasta, breaded veal cutlets, barbecued chicken, cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2019 734921 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Principe Corsini Le Corti Chianti Classico 2015, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This history winery was founded 800 years ago by the Corsini family, who at the time, was once Italy's largest landowner. This Chianti Classico winery -- Le Villa Corti -- has 49 hectares of vines planted in San Casciano Val di Pesa. The 2015 vintage has lots of racy acidity for tangy tomato sauces. Firm tannins. Aromas of tart cherry and spices. Chianti Classico food pairings: meaty lasagne, rich tomato sauce and cheesy pasta, meatlover's pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2024 400861 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Monte del Frá Bardolino 2016, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Lots of bright red berry fruit notes on the nose and palate of this mouth-watering Italian red wine -- just a great, drink-now wine. Bardolino is often nicknamed "baby Valpolicella," a nod to that appellation that is next to it. A terrific wine for the money, and a great one for holiday parties and potluck gatherings. It offers aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe cherries with full-bodied weight and mouth-watering juiciness. Finishes with some spice and black plum. Decant 1 hour. Try it with pepperoni pizza or enjoy on its own. Bardolino food pairings: pizza meat, lasagne, rich tomato sauce and pasta. Drink: 2018 - 2022 134544 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Schola Sarmenti Cubardi Primitivo 2012, Salento, Puglia, I.G.T., Italy: Sweet chocolate and black cherry maraschino flavours on this robust Italian red wine. High alcohol at 15% - finishes warm. Pair with Mexican mole and barbecue sweet ribs. Primitivo food pairings: rib steak, pork roast, meat lasagna. Drink: 2016 - 2020 316083 15% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Pieve Barolo 2013, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: This full-bodied red wine offers enticing aromas of bitter dark fruit, tar, toasty and spice. Barolo wines are rarely priced this affordably, so give this Piedmont, Nebbiolo-based grape wine a try. The tannins are huge and there will be plenty of fruit here to bring balance. A real gripper but I like it! Big, black with a tarry streak through the middle. Black cherry resistance and some dark spices. Perfect for black magic nights. Barolo wines are great candidates for the cellar given their aging ability. Piedmont's Nebbiolo grapes provide firm tannins that support this character. The 2012 vintage was a warm one. Barolo food pairings: beef stew, roast pheasant, prime rib. Drink: 2017 - 2025 213132 14.5% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Marchesi de Frescobaldi Nipozzano Riserva Chianti Rufina 2014, Tuscany Doc, Italy: A juicy, full-bodied Italian red wine from the heart of Tuscany in the Chianti region and made from the classic Sangiovese grape. Mouth-watering acidity for tangy tomato sauces. Drink: 2014 - 2020 107276 13% XD 750 mL $21.75 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Soprasasso Amarone Della Valpolicella 2014, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: Black cherry liqueur and spices on the nose and palate of this rich, luscious, full-bodied Italian red wine. Made using the appassimento method of drying the grapes before fermentation to add weight, colour, alcohol and flavour to the final wine. Pair with roast beef. Amarone Della Valpolicella food pairings: aged cheeses, grilled game meats, meaty game stews. Drink: 2018 - 2024 473124 15% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
New Zealand
Kim Crawford Small Parcels Fizz Sparkling Wine 2012, Marlborough, New Zealand: A terrific, full-bodied toasty sparkling wine ie fizz from New Zealand. Lovely green apple notes and smoke. Sparkling Wine food pairings: green salads, mild vegetable curry, asparagus and gruyere galette. 381236 12% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kim Crawford Wild Grace Chardonnay 2016, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Full-bodied, voluptuous and layered with butterscotch goodness and pineapple aromas. Yet not cloying or heavy, just mouth-filling and soul satisfying. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: butter chicken, seafood pot pie, lemon buttered lobster. Drink: 2018 - 2021 378604 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Portugal
Cabriz 2017, Dão D.O.C., Portugal: Very pleasant. Dry with field strawberry notes. Cabriz food pairings: salmon, grilled pork with a berry compote, barbecued chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2020 30445 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 86/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Adegamãe Dory 2015, Lisboa V.R., Portugal: A robust Portuguese red wine blend of Touriga Nacional, Syrah, Tinta Roriz and Merlot grapes. Aromas of dark berries and smoke. Smooth and full-bodied with racy acidity for tangy meat sauces. Decant 1 hour. Food pairings: grilled steaks, slow-cooked beef blade roast, smoked meats. Drink: 2018 - 2022 570085 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Arca Nova Vinho Verde 2016, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: A zesty northern Portuguese wine from the region of Vinho Verde made from a blend of native grapes. Lime and green apple acidity provide great refreshment and demand fresh seafood or shellfish. Medium-bodied. No oak. Serve well chilled. Vinho Verde food pairings: grilled seafood steamed shellfish, green salads topped with fresh steamed shrimp, crab cakes. Drink: 2018 - 2019 292029 10.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
South Africa
Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir 2017, Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay W.O., South Africa: I love this wine year after year, and I'd rather be drinking it than writing about it so I'll let the previous note stand. Breathing this in is like walking into an opium den for wine lovers. Satin pillows of fleshy black cherry invite you to lie back, close your eyes and let your senses roam. Surely one of South Africa's finest Pinot Noir producers! Hamilton-Russell leads the way in the country for cool-climate viticulture and racy, exciting wines. Sophisticated and complex, but extremely easy to drink. Lavish fleshy ripe cherry aromas and flavours yet not simple or sweet. Complex, elegant and layered South African Pinot Noir from a master producer. Some dark spice on the finish. Silk texture. Chapter three of my second book (Unquenchable) includes a visit to this winery and dinner with the brilliant Anthony Hamilton Russell. This is easy to mistake for a top shelf Burgundian Pinot. Pair with your holiday dinners, especially those featuring roast turkey or chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: lamb kabobs, venison burgers, roast veal, beef Carpaccio. Drink: 2018 - 2024 999516 13.5% XD 750 mL $58.95 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Graham Beck Premier Cuvée Brut Blanc De Blancs 2013, Robertson W.O., South Africa: Lovely toasty notes with green apple brightness through its core. It finishes with fresh green apple notes, crisp and dry. A vibrant sparkling wine at an great price. Pair with shellfish. Blanc De Blancs food pairings: crab legs, seafood chilli, mussels Portuguese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 907568 12% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2017, Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay W.O., South Africa: The 2017 vintage of the Hamilton Russell is a cool-climate Chardonnay from Hemel-En-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay wine region. This vintage is fresh with great acidity after receiving only partial malolactic conversion. The wine was matured in 40% new oak barrel for over nine months. Hamilton Russel Vineyards sees the strongest maritime influence of any winegrowing area in South Africa. At less than two kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean's Walker Bay, the cooling influence of the cold Benguela current flowing up from Antarctica flows over the vineyard with the prevailing southeast winds allowing for cooler days but warmer nights and warmer winters. The overall climate is Mediterranean. A chardonnay lover's chardonnay. Rich, concentrated and hedonistic, yet with a nervy edge in this South African Chardonnay. A concentrated vein of tree fruit and minerality. Perfectly balanced between luscious ripe peach and green apple, toasty oak and a nervy seam of acidity for a range of dishes, from roast chicken to seafood. Highly recommended. Drink now and for the next 10 years. Chardonnay food pairings: prawn bisque, chicken breast, frittata, cheese fondue, turkey. Drink: 2018 - 2025 931006 13% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 95/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Man Family Skaapveld Shiraz 2016, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: From MAN Vintner, an easy-drinking plummy Shiraz with soft tannins and a splash of viognier lends lift to the mid-palate. "MAN" Vintners is so named after Marie, Annette and Nicky, wives of the team who had to give up weekends in support of the new winery project. This easy-drinking Shiraz has plush tannins with plum and spice flavours. A splash of viognier lends a mid-palate lift. Smoky with toasty oak on this finish. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Shiraz food pairings: hamburger steak, Salisbury steak bobtje. Drink: 2018 - 2024 71332 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Spain
Izadi Larrosa Premium Rosé 2017, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This light-bodied pretty rose is made from Spanish old-vine Garnacha grapes. Aromas pf fresh strawberry and spice. Pair with seafood and salads. Rosé food pairings: grilled lamb lollipops, grilled salmon steak, grilled pork. Drink: 2018 - 2020 490961 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Viña Vilano Crianza 2013, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Viña Vilano Crianza is a 100% Tempranillo red from the Ribera Del Duero wine region. Lots of plum, chocolate and savour spice on this deep-purple red wine. The wine is full-bodied with smooth tannins. Drink now and for the next five to seven years. Ribero del Duero is famous for red wines. This one is dark and savoury with lovely dark chocolate notes on the top. Underneath is fleshy dark fruit, especially plums. Full-bodied, smooth and satisfying. Food pairings: lamb breast stuffed with veal pork and green herbs, spinach souffle, meatlover`s pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2024 82180 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Tarima Monastrell 2015, Alicante D.O., Spain: A robust, juicy, savoury Spanish red wine at a nice price. Supple, velvet smooth and loaded with seductive fleshy black cherry aromas and flavours. Beautiful depth and length. Gorgeous black raspberry on the finish. Pair with grilled lamb, prime rib roast and herbed chicken. Monastrell food pairings: prime rib roast, roast savoury herbed chicken, roast duck. Drink: 2017 - 2020 310151 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
United States
Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells 2013, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: A full-bodied Washington state red wine made from varietals that do well in the Columbia Valley. Notes of cassis and blackcurrant with a pleasant bitter finish wrapped in mocha. Pair with braised meats Food pairings: chicken, braised lamb, roast beef, rosemary pork tenderloin. Drink: 2017 - 2020 421081 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
McManis Chardonnay 2016, River Junction, California, United States: A medium-bodied, balanced California Chardonnay with soft acidity, and attractive flavours of peach and pear. Finishes with pineapple and buttered toast. This winery is Certified Sustainable, practising farming and winemaking methods that have a lower impact on the environment. Pair with salmon casserole. Chardonnay food pairings: scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2017 - 2019 265983 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Dark ruby hue red and dark fruit aromas. Joseph J. Wagner produces this Californian red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. The Clark & Telephone Vineyard was planted in 1972. Joe Wagner produces four single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from four Californian appellations. Changes in sunlight hours, rain, climate, fog and elevations results in four distinct styles for the four vineyards: Dairyman, Las Alturas, Taylor Lane and Clark & Telephone. Mocha and sweet dark chocolate on the nose and palate of this Californian Pinot Noir from generous oak aging. This is followed by sweet cherry flavours and a supple almost full-bodied weight. Finishes with flavours of raspberry pie and clove and cinnamon spices. Pair with ham or Mexican mole. Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon steaks, pork, spaghetti Bolognese, veal, roast beef. Drink: 2018 - 2021 652883 14.6% MD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Angels & Cowboys Rosé 2017, Sonoma County, California, United States: A light-bodied, delicate, dry Californian rose made from Grenache grapes, but the same winemakers who make Cannonball wines. Aromas of wild strawberries and light spice. Pair with grilled seafood. Rosé food pairings: charcuterie and cheese board, smoked salmon pizza, green salads. Drink: 2018 - 2020 493155 12.8% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Calera Pinot Noir 2015, Central Coast, California, United States: The 2015 is the fortieth anniversary vintage of this wine. Hand-picked, wild fermented, aged in French oak barrels, 10% of which was new. Elegant, refined pinot noir from a master! Earthy with violets and some fleshy black cherry. Medium-bodied, almost full. Gorgeous. Pair with grilled seafood or roast turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: filet mignon, pork tenderloin, pizza, pasta, hard cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2024 933044 14.5% XD 750 mL $48.95 Score: 94/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Valley Of The Moon Blend '41 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: The name of this wine, Blend '41, is in honour of the year 1941 when the Valley of the Moon winery was founded. This is a robust Californian red wine blend of 44% Zinfandel, 24% Syrah, 18% Barbera, 8% Merlot, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Sangiovese grapes. Loaded with dark berry jam and toasty oak notes. Perfect for barbecued meats. Food pairings: beef bourgignon, coq au vins, roast goose. Drink: 2018 - 2023 570838 15.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Truchard Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied and plush with a smooth texture. Lots of juicy black fruit flavour but not over-the-top. Racy acidity for barbecue wings or tangy tomato and meats sauces. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled lamb chops, bison burgers, tourtière. Drink: 2018 - 2024 59683 14.2% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 90/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Drouhin Arthur Chardonnay 2015, Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Viscous, mouth-filling and luscious -- oh yum! Pure green apple sunshine infused with a toasted almond finish. The Chardonnay was fermented half in stainless steel and half in 30% new oak, then the oak-fermented portion went through malolactic fermentation to give a creamier mouth-feel. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork chops, stuffed chicken breast, roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2022 959619 13.9% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 93/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Seven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: A pleasant, full-bodied Washington Cabernet, with aromas of dark fruit and lots of toasty oak. This winery was founded in 1980. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rouladen bobtje, tourtière, gourmet burgers. Drink: 2018 - 2024 510792 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 89/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kistler Les Noisetiers Chardonnay 2016, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: This voluptuous Californian Chardonnay sets the benchmark for all others. Gorgeous liquid opulence! Balanced, beautiful and robust. Butterscotch and green apple with hints of white peach on the nose. Creamy, plush, layered and luxurious. Pair this classic Californian Chardonnay with more of itself or Cornish hen. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork chops, stuffed chicken breast, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2023 251223 14.1% XD 750 mL $139.95 Score: 92/100. July 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Crema Chardonnay 2016, Monterey, California, United States: Lots of caramel and toffee on this buttery, oaky Californian Chardonnay that has balancing acidity and some apple notes. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2021 158683 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. July 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: The 2014 vintage of this Californian Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa's Frank Family has lots of black fruit and anise aromas. Since founding the winery in 1992, the family has owned and operated the estate which now has 450 acres of vineyards. Winemaker Todd Graff creates the wines in a 19th century stone winery that's listed on the Register of National Historic Places and is surrounded by elm trees. A full-bodied red wine with aromas of cassis and black currant. Good acidity on the palate for tangy sauces. Pair with chili con carne. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Drink: 2018 - 2024 246900 14.5% XD 750 mL $90.00 Score: 91/100. July 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart