Trapiche Finca Las Palmas Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Mendoza, Argentina: Beautifully structured and balanced Argentine Cabernet with attractive aromas of cedar brush, cassis and black currant. Very classic in its styling and elegance. Perfect for filet mignon. Drink: 2015-2022. 143206 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. February 9, 2017
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Terrazas De Los Andes Reserve Malbec 2014, Argentina: A rich, luscious, full-bodied Argentine Malbec with classic aromas of fleshy ripe black plum and mulberry. A meaty, savoury mid-palate with a strong core of minerality. This Argentine red wine is made from Malbec grapes grown at the ideal altitude of 1,067 metres above sea level for the ripening and complex evolution of Malbec. Round, full-bodied and redolent of black fruit and toast. Some dark spice on the finish which is long and satisfying. Pair with a rare filet mignon. Drink: 2017-2022. 29280 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. April 28, 2017
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Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Mendoza, Argentina: Sexy Argentine red wine for sensualists. A rich, deeply concentrated red with blackberry liqueur and blueberry preserve aromas. Smooth and full-bodied. Fantastic for barbecues. This is a red for hedonists and evenings beside a crackling fire. Drink: 2017-2022. 135202 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. April 28, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Trapiche Gran Medalla Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Mendoza, Argentina: A spectaclarly well-crafted wine, especially for this price point. Rich, full-bodied and savoury with aromas of dark fleshy berries and some meaty notes that are very satisfying. Lots of great layers. Pair with rare filet mignon. Drink: 2014-2021. 13608 14.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2017
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Elderton Shiraz 2013, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Black as pitch, with lots of toasty oak, smoke and tarry notes. Full-throttle Australia Shiraz in all its glory. I'm a big fan of Elderton wines, and this is one fine example of why. A lovely vein of blackberry liqueur supports this concentrated wonder. Perfect for film noir and blackened ribs. Drink: 2017-2020. 713024 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. June 17, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
M. Chapoutier Tournon Mathilda 2014, Victoria, Australia: Sunshine bright and vibrant with lemon rays of loveliness. Lime zest on this gorgeous southern French white wine blend. Just the right amount of acidity for a wide range of dishes from fresh seafood to spinach quiche. Drink: 2016-2021. 401398 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 28, 2017
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Mitchell Watervale Riesling 2014, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: A robust Australian red wine with aromas of black plum and pepper. Pair with steak. Drink: 2017-2020. 487785 13.50% M 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 28, 2017
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Two Hands Sexy Beast Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, South Australia, Australia: Classic Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of sweet plum, blueberries, cassis, dark spice and some tar. Sexy Beast is indeed sexy, with fleshy ripe back fruit, a lingering whiff of smoke and a voluptuous texture that wraps itself around your senses. Powerful, but balanced. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2015-2019. 219469 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. February 18, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Yalumba Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Coonawarra, Australia: A terrific and vibrantly flavoured Australian Cabernet Sauvignon from the cool climate of Coonawarra. Great balance and restraint, yet there's no shortage of flavour and character. Black fruit, spice and smoke. Perfect for prime rib. Drink: 2016-2021. 460667 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 25, 2017
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Two Hands Wines Sexy Beast Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: The grapes for this blockbuster red wine come from the McLaren Vale, a much-respected wine region in Australia. Sexy Beast is indeed sexy, with fleshy ripe back fruit, a lingering whiff of smoke and a voluptuous texture that wraps itself around your senses. Classic Cabernet Sauvignon aromas on the finish of cassis, dark spice and some tar. Powerful, but balanced. Try it with a brontosaurus burger. Drink: 2014-2019. 219469 14.80% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 93/100. July 19, 2014
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Henry of Pelham Estate Pinot Noir 2015, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, V.Q.A., Canada: Fleshy ripe black cherry aromas on the nose follow through with those flavours on the palate. Racy acidity for roasted chicken and turkey. Very complex with a long finish. Plush and sexy with a satin-smooth texture. Gorgeous aromas of smokey cherries. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Drink: 2016-2023. 268391 13.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. May 26, 2018
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Muscedere Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2011, Lake Erie North Shore, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Medium-bodied, supple, happy-go-lucky red just taking a stroll down a sunny back road. Aromas of dark red fruit and some smoke. Drink: 2013-2015. 334144 12.70% XD 750 mL $18.20 Score: 88/100. May 11, 2013
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Château des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014, St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2014-2017. 332858 12.50% XD 750 mL $35.00. October 17, 2016
Full Review
Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Featherstone's Black Sheep Riesling stands shoulder to shoulder (ear to ear) with the best of Niagara Rieslings. This is one of my favourite Niagara Rieslings: delightful every vintage. The 2016 vintage is no exception with lovely bright notes of lime blossom, lemon zest and flint. Pair with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. This Ontario white wine offers great refreshment in the glass. Drink: 2017-2020. 80234 13.80% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. November 25, 2017
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Carmen Wines Gran Reserva Carmenère 2012, Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile: 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 Carmenere grapes are sourced from the El Peñasco Vineyard. Superbly crafted for this price. Great structure and persistence of flavours on the finish. Terrific value. The 2012 vintage of the Carmen Gran Reserva is made from mostly Carmenère grapes, and the wine is matured in French oak for 10 months. Finishes with dark spices and vanilla smoke. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2013-2018. 439166 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 4, 2015
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Château de Nages 2013, Costières De Nîmes, Southern Rhone A.C., France: A gorgeous Rhone white wine blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Viognier grapes with richness and roundness and mouth-coating texture. Pair with butter chicken. Drink: 2017-2020. 485854 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 28, 2017
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Michel Gassier Nostre Païs 2014, Costières De Nîmes, Southern Rhone A.C., France: A robust and delicious red with aromas of black liquorice (it's dry), blackberries, black cherry and smoke. Lovely length and weight. Polished, smooth tannins make it easy to drink now though it'll also keep well in the cellar. This wine was mature for six months in French barrels, with most of it resting on its lees. Terrific price. Gassier is the iconic flagship of the Nimes region, and this wine shows why. Drink: 2017-2020. 295410 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. April 28, 2017
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Chateau De Treviac 2014, Corbieres, Languedoc, Midi A.P., France: Rich and complex southern French red wine. Corbieres is an under-appreciated region- get some before the prices go up. A luscious, smoky, full-bodied blend of syrah and Grenache grapes, at a terrific price. Black pepper and fleshy black plum aromas. Velvet texture. Awesome! The southern French region of Corbières is often underestimated, and yet it's capable of producing blockbuster reds like this one. Usually Carignane is part of the blend, but not in this case. Intense and satisfying. Pair with ribeye steak. Drink: 2017-2021. 670505 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. April 28, 2017
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Canonica A Cerreto Riserva Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: The winery's names translates to small chapel in the oak woodlands, and the estate is nestled in the hills of the Chianti Classico region near the town of Siena in Tuscany. The vineyards are planted at 1250 feet above sea level. An earthy, full-bodied wine with smoky dark red fruit and good, mouth-watering acidity. Best consumed with hearty dishes involving tomato sauce. Mixed spices and black raspberry on the finish. A wine to satisfy a savage thirst (for good wine). Drink: 2017-2021. 275867 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. April 28, 2017
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Santa Margherita Impronta del Fondatore Pinot Grigio 2016, Alto Adige Trentino D.O.C., Italy: This zesty Italian white wine is fresh, clean and crisp with white peach notes. Medium-bodied with lime lift on the finish. Great aperitif. Try this medium-bodied white wine with balsamic grilled radicchio, basil pesto or zucchini and red onion frittata. Drink: 2016-2018. 231258 13.50% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. June 17, 2017
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Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2016, Alto Adige Trentino DOC, Italy: Beautifully balanced and refreshing Italian Pinot Grigio from one of the country's best-known producers of this wine. Santa Margherita was, in fact, the first to make Pinot Grigio back in 1961, and has led the way ever since. Crisp and lively with racy acidity for seafood and shellfish. Also works on its own as a chilled aperitif. Drink: 2017-2021. 106450 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 26, 2019
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Ruffino Modus 2013, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: The 2013 vintage of this rich, full-bodied Italian red wine is a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot grapes. The vines are planted primarily in the vineyards of Ruffino's estates of Poggio Casciano and Santedame, which is hilly clay rich in fossil fragments. The wine undergoes a malolactic fermentation and a post-fermentative maceration on the skins for 2 weeks to add richness and depth. It's then aged for 12 months in first, second and third use American and French 225 litre oak barrels. This Super Tuscan is worthy of your attention, from its ruby-violet gem glints in the glass to its finish as long as a Tuscan country road. It delivers an intense bouquet of black cherry, plum, graphite, dried tobacco leaves and dark spice. This robust red wine has remarkably polished tannins that yield to a supple, smooth texture. Incredible concentration and flavour at such a reasonable level of alcohol. Pair with truffle-inflected dishes and grilled meats. Drink: 2015-2023. 912956 13.50% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 94/100. April 25, 2017
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Nino Franco Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: Crisp and clean with white peach and white grapefruit notes. Great for large gatherings. Nice price. Terrific persistence of bubbles and mousse. Pair with pasta in cream sauce. Drink: 2017-2020. 349662 11% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. April 15, 2020
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Castello di Gabbiano Riserva Chianti Classico 2013, Tuscany D.O.C.G, Italy: A vibrant, racy, smooth, full-bodied Chianti Reserva with great typicity of the region and terroir. Aromas of earth, smoke and dried black fruit. Mouth-watering and juicy. Pair with tomato-based meat sauces. Drink: 2017-2023. 216309 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Torresella Brut Prosecco, Prosecco D.O.C., Italy: Vibrant, fresh and fruity with white and green melon notes. Great aperitif or companion to hors d'ouevres. Drink: 2023-2024. 400440 11.50% M 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 21, 2023
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Ruffino Prosecco, Tuscany, Italy: A fresh, crisp, vibrant Italian sparkling wine with attractive aromas of freshly cut lemon and lime. This Prosecco makes for a wonderful aperitif or pair it with seafood, shellfish and friend chicken. Drink: 2016-2019. 467811 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. January 8, 2017
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Kim Crawford Wild Grace Small Parcels Chardonnay 2015, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand: Full-bodied, voluptuous and layered with butterscotch goodness and pineapple aromas. Yet not cloying or heavy, just mouth-filling and soul satisfying. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2015-2020. 378604 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. April 24, 2017
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Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: The Sauvignon Blanc wine grapes for Squealing Pig (2017) are sourced from the driest and coolest vineyard sites in the Awatere Valley. Look for fresh grapefruit, zesty lemon and fresh herb flavours on the palate finishing long with vibrant acidity. Chill and enjoy with grilled seafood dishes. Drink: 2018-2019. 414789 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. September 15, 2018
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Borsao Tres Picos Grenache 2015, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain: This winery is located south of Rioja and is comprised of 100% Garnacha grapes. The Garnacha grapes for this wine grow on old vines, which provides additional concentration and flavour. Great structure. Lots of mocha and dark chocolate aromas on the nose that are then flooded with lusciously ripe black fruit on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. A rich darkly hued colour in the glass. A long, satisfying finish. Pair with grilled meats. The 2013 vintage of the Tres Picos offers solid value. Drink: 2017-2023. 273748 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 25, 2017
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Bodegas Viña Magaña 2010, Navarra D.O., Spain: Juicy, complex, concentrated and rich: this is a staggeringly great value for the money! Fleshy black plums, smoke and pepper. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2017-2020. 280552 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 28, 2017
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Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Elegant, classic and enduring (and endearing -- en'deer'ing?) Californian red wine. One of the cult classics that collectors chase through the forest of liquor store aisles. Rich, luscious and full-bodied with velvet layers of fleshy blackberries to caress your tongue and senses. Lovely nuances of smoke, forest floor and bacon. Racy, chewy and satisfying. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2017-2022. 708982 14.50% XD 750 mL $121.95 Score: 93/100. April 28, 2017
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Kali Hart Talbott Chardonnay 2014, Monterey County, California, United States: Lovely bottled Californian sunshine here! Luscious layers of ripe tree fruit and toffee goodness. A balanced and tasty Chardonnay with green apple and smoke. Round and generous. Try it with chicken dishes. Drink: 2017-2020. 46417 14.60% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. April 28, 2017
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Treana Blanc 2014, Central Coast, California, United States: This is a luscious, full-bodied blend of 45% Viognier, 45% Marsanne and 10% Rousanne grapes. Butterscotch rich with golden apples aromas. Hope Family Wines produces this full-bodied Californian white wine blend of tradition Rhone Valley grapes, such as Viognier and Marsanne. Love the richness and the viscous texture! Dried pineapple and apricot with layers and layers of lapping pleasure. Full-bodied with a long finish. Pair with roast turkey. Drink: 2015-2020. 11247 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. April 28, 2017
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Union Wine Company Underwood Pinot Noir 2015, Oregon, United States: Tart cherry with underbrush and some herbal notes though not unripe or stemmy. Racy acidity demands food like roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2017-2020. 421198 13% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. April 28, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Michael David Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Lodi, California, United States: Full-bodied and juicy with black fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2017-2022. 405175 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. January 20, 2018
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Charles Smith Vino Pinot Grigio 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Melon crisp and crisp with a medium body and pleasing acidity for seafood or to make this a terrific stand-alone aperitif. Drink: 2017-2018. 493205 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 24, 2017
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Bold Vine Old Vine Zinfandel 2013, Lodi, California, United States: Fleshy ripe and sweet, juicy black plums -- so good! Supple and smooth. Juicy and generous with black and purple plum aromas and flavours. Full-bodied made from gnarly head vines. Perfect for grilled meats. Drink: 2017-2020. 281600 14.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. April 28, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
Joel Gott Wines Grenache 2014, Napa Valley, California, United States: A voluptuous and richly texture Californian red wine made from the Grenache grape. Loaded with dark berries and smoke. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2015-2021. 14.10% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. April 25, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Simi Winery Merlot 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: Winemakers Susan Lueker and Megan Schofield have crafted a supple, smooth, rich Merlot for the 2012 vintage. This is a red wine blend of 87% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. The wine was fermented in 100% stainless steel then aged in 1005 oak for 14 months in a combination of small French and American oak barrels, 20% of which was new. This wine delivers pleasing aromas of blackberry, plum, clove, cedar forest and spice. Great balance of acidity and luscious fruit flavour for dishes like grilled pork chops and lamb. Drink: 2017-2019. 417386 13.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. April 28, 2017
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Josh Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, California, United States: Smoky campfire on the nose of this full-bodied, layered red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2015-2019. 461053 13.50% D 750 mL $17.00 Score: 90/100. April 25, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Menage A Trois Zinfandel 2014, Lodi, California, United States: Smoky campfire, mouth-watering fleshy blackberries. Wowsers. Juicy, savoury, come back for more wine. Pair with barbecued wings or ribs. Drink: 2015-2020. 15% D 750 mL $25.30 Score: 92/100. August 4, 2016
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Meiomi Wines Pinot Noir 2014, California, United States: Produced by Joseph Wagner, this medium-bodied, silky smooth Californian red wine offers plus aromas of fleshy cherry, sweet berry, and cinnamon spice. Pair with grilled chicken or pork chops. Drink: 2014-2019. 130138 14% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. April 19, 2016
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Beringer Founders' Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, California, United States: Very juicy and succulent Californian Cabernet with terrific aromas of fleshy ripe black and purple plums. Smooth and layered on the palate. Great value for this price. Pair with hamburgers or meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2014-2018. 534263 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. December 3, 2015
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Mirassou Winery Pinot Noir 2016, California, United States Drink: 2012-2015. 185249 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95. November 20, 2012
Full Review
Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2015, Central Coast, California, United States: Cline's Zinfandel grapes are sourced from dry-farmed vines planted more than 100 years ago, thus deserving the name Ancient Vines. The depth and concentration of that aging vine wisdom shows in the glass. Notes of blackberry and toasty, black fruit, tar, smoke and toasty oak. Full-bodied. Perfect for BBQ meats and a campfire. This is a truly mouth-filling wine. Big, long finish like a Broadway number... it's a dazzling kick-line for the senses. Warm, sunny days and cool nights along the San Joaquin and Sacramento Rivers provide unique growing conditions to produce robust, intense red wines. Drink: 2017-2020. 719211 15% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. April 28, 2017
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