St. Hallett Blackwell Shiraz 2006, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Winner of a Gold Medal at the Royal Perth Wine Show in 2008. I’ve long loved this wine, packed with generous notes of fleshy blackberries and black raspberries. Some pepper and spice give it a lick and kick. Gorgeous! 535104 14.50% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 95/100. October 10, 2009
Full Review
Yalumba The Strapper Gsm Named Varietal Blends-Red 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This is an incredible robust red wine for the price! Full-bodied, lusciously rich and deep with a terrific long finish. Aromas of fleshy sweet dark fruit, a hint of pepper and savoury goodness. Mouth-watering and delicious. terrific with grilled pork shops, beef or lamb with rosemary. The Grenache in the blend gives this wine an extra richness, while the Mataro lends rustic tannins and the Shiraz, fleshy fruit. It's a terrific combo! Drink: 2013-2020. 295873 13.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. March 29, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Langmeil Hangin' Snakes Shiraz Viognier 2012, The Long Mile, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Minty blackberry nose with plush plum flavours on the palate. Generous, full-bodied and lovely. Dark, concentrated and complex with the dark fruit intensity from the Shiraz and the lifted flavours and brightness through the mid-palate from a splash of Viognier. Classic Barossa in all its glory. Some eucalyptus and black pepperoni the finish. Try it with grilled or blackened chicken. Drink: 2014-2018. 77685 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 16, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Schild Estate Gms Grenache Mourvèdre Shiraz 2012, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Oh yum. Comfort me with mourvèdre and other old bush vine grapes. Rich, complex and deep Australian red wine: exactly what you want in a partner (and in a wine). Full-bodied and smooth and inviting. The Schild family has been in the Barossa Valley for more than 60 years. Lots of complexity, depth and vibrancy in this richly rewarding wine. This is a blend of 45% Grenache, 28% Mourvèdre and 27% Shiraz grapes. Pair with brisket. Drink: 2013-2018. 108183 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. February 21, 2015
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
De Bortoli Wines - Yarra Valley Villages Pinot Noir 2012, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: Very pretty Pinot Noir that's medium-bodied, ultra smooth and redolent of fresh cherry-berry aromas. Lip-smacking tasty with balanced acidity. Drink: 2013-2017. 408336 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. June 2, 2015
Delightful Duck Wine Full Review
Barossa Valley Estate Shiraz 2014, Barossa Valley, Australia: Richly aromatic nose of violets, black plum and blueberry on this full-bodied Australian Shiraz. So juicy and smooth on the palate. Perfect for roast beef and big meat dishes. Drink: 2015-2019. 477801 14% D 750 mL $23.05 Score: 91/100. June 5, 2016
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Peter Lehmann Wines Layers Shiraz Tempranillo Mourvèdre Grenache 2014, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A spectacular, robust Australian red wine at a terrific price! The Shiraz in the blend provides the muscular structure and tannin plus black plum, while Tempranillo adds some tarry character. Grenache adds dark floral and a racy exotic texture. This wine is aged for 12 months in 10-year oak barrels. Pair with rare steak. Drink: 2016-2021. 138883 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 25, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Peter Lehmann Wines Portrait Shiraz 2014, Barossa, Australia: Juicy black and purple plums aromas and flavours. Very rich and concentrated. The grapes come from an elevated region of the Barossa Valley and express that cooler vibrancy in the wine. Aromas of dark chocolate and black plum. This is a terrific wine, especially for the price. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2015-2022. 572875 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 7, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Peter Lehmann Wines The Barossan Shiraz 2015, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: A generous, juicy, full-bodied Australian red wine made from the country's classic Shiraz grape in the region known for it, the Barossa Valley. Aromas of fleshy black plum, toasty oak, smoke and pencil led. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2016-2021. 522235 14.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. June 9, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Yalumba The Scribbler Cabernet Shiraz 2013, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Rich, round and full-bodied Australian red wine blend of Shiraz Cabernet. Good grip on the palate from tannins. Decant 1 hour and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2016-2020. 165811 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. January 6, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full Review
Benjamin Bridge Brut 2012, Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada: This Nova Scotia sparkling sets the trend for Canadian bubblies in style and elegance. The 2012 vintage of the Benjamin Bridge Brut is stunning. You're drinking the stars here. This bubbly is made using the traditional method (Methode Classique) of the second fermentation in the bottle, just as they do in the Champagne region of France. They also use two of the grapes, Pinot Noir (10%) and Chardonnay (8%), used in France in their blend, together with L'Acadie (42%) and Seyval (40%) to give a decidedly (and deliciously) Nova Scotia signature to the cuvee. All grapes are estate grown and hand-harvested in October and bottled in June after spending 5 years on the lees to add richness, creaminess and depth. The 2012 vintage had the ideal conditions of sustained cool weather moderated by the Bay of Fundy which allowed for slow and complex ripening of the grapes. Lovely aromas of lime citrus, fresh mint, and lemon brightness on the nose and palate with great replays of flavour. A long, toasty finish leaves you at the shoreline of this Atlantic bubbly longing for more. This wine dances in the glass like sunlight on the ocean, with just as much refreshing sea spray on the palate and senses. Pair with Atlantic lobster in melted butter or fresh seafood. Drink: 2013-2023. 415983 11% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 96/100. November 25, 2017
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Vanessa Vineyard Meritage 2013, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: A blockbuster BC red wine blend of estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. The wine is aged 18 months in French and American oak barrels. Aromas of dried herbs, leather, coffee and black currant. Pair with prime rib. Needs cellar time. Highly recommended. Drink: 2018-2024. 385401 14% D 750 mL $39.99 Score: 94/100. December 22, 2020
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full Review
Hester Creek Estate Winery The Judge Golden Mile Bench 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A blockbuster BC red wine with fairly firm tannins that will smooth out with cellar time, then decant 1-2 hours. Aromas of black fruit, smoke and toasty oak. Winemaker Robert Summers makes this wine from some of the oldest vines in the Okanagan for this wine on the Golden Mile Bench. It's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. This is stunning: Bordeaux elegance, BC power. Pair with a rare steak or lamb. Drink: 2018-2026. 133124 14.60% XD 750 mL $49.99 Score: 95/100. July 5, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinot Gris 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific BC white wine made from the classic Pinot Gris grape. The vines are planted in soil that's permeated with sea rocks. Aromas of white peach, golden apple and pear. Racy acidity for seafood. The wines are 100% made from estate grown fruit. Drink: 2018-2022. 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. August 10, 2020
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Classic aromas of rosewater, baking spice and lychee on the nose and palate. Very balanced yet not overdone. Viscous and mouth-filling with great layering. Finishes with baking spices and lemon zest. Pair with shellfish and mild curries. Drink: 2014-2018. 904185 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. February 8, 2016
Top Rated White Wine. Spectacular Spicy Wine Full Review
Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia Bc V.Q.A., Canada: Classic gewurz! Rose petal, spice and lychee aromas on the nose and palate. Very nice: balanced yet not overdone. Yay! Viscous and mouth-filling with great layering. Finishes with baking spices and lemon zest. Pair with shellfish and a clear conscience. Drink: 2013-2018. 904185 13.30% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. March 7, 2015
Spectacular Spicy Wine Full Review
Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Reserve Pinot Gris 2012, Okanagan Valley, Bristish Columbia BC VQA, Canada: Crisp and clean with aromas and flavours of white and green melon and lime zest on this BC white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes. This is the winery's reserve label. Pair with shellfish. Drink: 2012-2017. 13% XD 750 mL $25.90 Score: 89/100. September 16, 2015
Full Review
Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Devil's Collection 2014, Rapel Valley, Chile: A smooth, medium-bodied Chilean red wine with aromas of dried fruit and a chalky dry texture and taste. Some mocha on cocoa on the finish. This wine was aged in French and American oak barrels for 10 months. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2016-2018. 436956 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. March 5, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Falernia Titón Single Vineyard Reserva Syrah 2017, Elqui Valley, Chile: Falernia Reserva 2017 Syrah is an amazing value Chilean Reserva. Smoky and spicy on the nose, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated with dark berry, smoked meat, mocha, olive, cracked pepper spice with a velvety finish. Grapes were sourced from the Elquí Valley wine region near the town of La Serena, 320 miles north of Santiago. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 16793 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. March 4, 2023
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Gérard Bertrand Heritage 560 Tautavel 2020, Tautavel, Côtes Du Roussillon, Roussillon A.P., France: Gérard Bertrand Heritage 560 2020 is an excellent value Côtes du Roussillon-Villages at $20. Dry and full-bodied, this vibrant red is produced from a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan grapes sourced from vines growing in pebbly and limestone soils. Look for ripe dark fruits, dark cherry, smoky garrigue herbs and pepper spice flavours concentrated on the palate. Enjoy with roast chicken. Drink: 2022-2026. 272575 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 7, 2023
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Domaine Lafage Bastide Miraflors Syrah Vieilles Vignes Grenache 2019, Côtes du Roussillon, Roussillon A.P., France: Bastide Miraflors 2019 is a juicy Old Vines red wine blend of Grenache and Syrah sourced from the Côtes du Roussillon wine region. Full-bodied, plushy and vibrant on the palate with ripe dark berry, toasty oak spice, wild herbs and meaty flavours with a vibrant finish. Tannins are structured and pleasantly grippy. Very approachable now, but can easily hold in cellar for three years. Drink: 2022-2025. 320499 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 10, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review
Georges Duboeuf Hob Nob Pinot Noir 2015, Languedoc IGT, France: Juicy, supple and absolutely delicious Pinot Noir from the Languedoc region of southern France. Bursting with fleshy ripe cherry aromas and flavours. Satin smooth and full-bodied. Produced by well-known winery Georges duBoeuf. Pair with roast chicken and turkey. Drink: 2015-2019. 184069 13% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 89/100. February 26, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Michel Chapoutier Les Vignes Bila-Haut Syrah / Grenache / Carignan 2015, Côtes du Roussillon Villages, France: Another terrific southern French wine from the master winemaker Chapoutier. This is a robust white wine blend of 60% Grenache Blanc, 20% Macabeu, 10% Marsanne and the remainder Vermentino grapes. The grapes for the 2015 vintage of the Cotes du Roussillon les Vignes de Bila Haut Blanc were picked from September 1-15 and fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. Aromas of white peach and orchard fruit. Terrific acidity or seafood. Medium-bodied. Terrific! Drink: 2018-2022. 485656 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. February 28, 2018
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Diane de Belgrave 2011, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France: This is the second wine of Chateau Belgrave, and it's spectacular! Luscious and rich with juicy layers of fleshy ripe black plum. Long tannins mean that this wine is extra supple, with a velvet mouth-texture. It's accessible and ready to drink now, though you could also cellar it for 5-7 years. It's produced in the St. Julien district of the Haut Medoc in Bordeaux. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2013-2022. 226050 13.50% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 93/100. April 26, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Mommessin Beaujolais Nouveau 2016, Burgundy, France: A joyous nouveau from the 2016 vintage. Mommesin is one of the most respected producers in the Beaujolais region. Their nouveau this year offers rich aromas of cherry-berry and some spice. More weight than most nouveau wines. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2016-2017. 897934 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. July 6, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Bastide Miraflors Vieilles Vignes Syrah Grenache 2015, Côtes De Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: A blockbuster southern French red wine blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache grapes with lip-smacking juiciness on the palate. The Grenache component of the wine was aged for 1 year in 80% concrete tanks while the Syrah was matured in 500-litre demi-muids (large barrels). Purple plums and blueberry pie on the nose and palate of this robust, smooth, juicy French red wine. Pair with hamburgers and relish with salsa on the side. Drink: 2017-2021. 320499 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 16, 2019
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Bouchard Pere & Fils Pinot Noir 2013, Beaune, Burgundy AOC, France: Medium-bodied and silky smooth Burgundian Pinot Noir. Classic aromas of tart cherry and fresh earth. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2014-2018. 605667 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 31, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
La Domelière Rasteau Cave De Rasteau 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Gorgeous richness in this powerful red wine at a staggeringly great price! Black fleshy plums that rub up against your senses and pleasure centre. Layers and layers of velvet richness. Mouth-filling and mouth-pleasing. Get a case. Drink: 2014-2018. 222927 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. June 21, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Château Saint-Roch Chimères 2011, Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi A.C., France: Love the incredible range of styles that the Rhone region produces, like this intriguing red wine blend. Full-bodied and deeply savoury. Wow, so different: love it! Violets, black plum, deep dive black raspberry into a heart of welling darkness and satisfaction. Platonic ideal of concentration and depth with a long, sensuous finish that leaves you bathed in flavour satisfaction. Pair with hearty meat dishes and deep conversations. Drink: 2013-2019. 119354 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. July 19, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Château Montus Madiran 2007, Madiran, Southwest, France 750 mL $28.95. March 1, 2012
Full Review
Château De Pierreux Brouilly 2013, Beaujolais A.C., France: Liquid gorgeous! Full-bodied, rich and complex -- so let's just get over that stereotype now of Beaujolais being light and simple, shall we? Glorious rich black cherry flavours, dark spices and yet this is super satin, sexy in texture. Pair with grilled pork chops. Yum! Drink: 2013-2016. 5496 12.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. September 13, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
06 Ch. Montus Madiran (Alain Brumont) 2006, South West, France 704718 13.50% XD 750 mL $34.95. January 1, 2011
Full Review
Château Montus Madiran 2006, Sud-Ouest, France 13.50% 750 mL $26.05. March 1, 2012
Full Review
Cave de Rasteau La Domelière Rasteau 2010, A.C., Rhône, France: Savoury meaty notes, ripe black cherry, smoke and happiness on the nose. Full-bodied, plush and smooth in the mouth. Goes on and on with a long finish. Stunning for the price. Drink: 2013-2016. 222927 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. March 2, 2013
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Pierre Henri Morel Signargues 2010, A.C., Rhône, France: Dense black fruit, licorice and smoke on the nose of this amazingly well-priced wine. Full-bodied and supple with black plum and black raspberry on the finish. This is a terrific blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes. I'm still shaking my head at the great price. Try it with meat lovers' pizza or hamburgers. Drink: 2013-2016. 277038 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. March 16, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Mas Janeil 2008, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: Gorgeous depth and plushness in this full-bodied wine! Like diving into a sea of black plum pillows tongue-first. Supple and sexy. Pair it with grilled steak or pork chops. Drink: 2012-2016. 992800 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 27, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem M. Chapoutier 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages Latour De France, Midi, France: Rich, velvet fleshy black raspberries loll over your tongue and release their juicy flavour as you move the wine around in your mouth. Full-bodied and pleasurable. Close your eyes. I can't resist a good Latin name either. Makes a perfect gift for an English teacher. A finish as long as War & Peace with dark spice and plot twists. Drink: 2012-2018. 643239 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 95/100. July 20, 2013
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Hugel Gentil 2012, Alsace, France: A classic, refreshing white wine with lovely notes of lime, Asian pear, white peach and grapefruit. Perfect as an aperitif or an accompaniment to many dishes. This AC-designated wine is a field blend of Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner and Pinot Blanc grapes. Drink: 2013-2016. 162841 12% XD 750 mL $21.90 Score: 90/100. February 1, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Illuminati Riparosso 2013, Montepulciano D'Abruzzo DOC, Italy: A tart, medium-bodied Italian red wine with lots of acidity o the palate. Aromas of sour cherry and sun-dried tomato. Pair with a tangy tomato sauce. Drink: 2013-2017. 269985 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.50 Score: 87/100. December 31, 2015
Full Review
Marchesi de Frescobaldi Castiglioni 2014, Tuscany DOCG, Italy: Smooth and luscious with fleshy ripe dark berries and smoke. Pair with spicy Italian sausages. Drink: 2015-2020. 545319 14% XD 750 mL $14.90 Score: 89/100. March 5, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Peppoli Antinori Chianti Classico 2013, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Dark fruit and lots of spice on the nose of this full-bodied Italian red wine from the heart of the Chianti region in Tuscany. Some wild blackberry on the finish. Drink: 2015-2019. 606541 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. March 5, 2016
Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Marchesi de Frescobaldi Nipozzano Vecchie Viti Chianti Rufina Riserva 2012, Tuscany DOCG, Italy: This gorgeous Chianti Reserva could benefits from more cellar time: it has so much potential, yet it's also ready to drink now. Aromas of black fruit, tar and smoke. The 2012 vintage was a strong one, and thus this wine has great aging potential. Decant 1 hour. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2017-2023. 395186 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. April 28, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Castello di Gabbiano Chianti 2014, Tuscany DOCG, Italy: Savoury and juicy with attractive sour cherry notes. Supple and smooth and full-bodied. There's a lot to love in this wine. Racy acidity means this wine will dance with tomato sauce dishes, including pasta. Drink: 2016-2019. 78006 12% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 90/100. January 31, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Cusumano Nero D'avola 2015, Sicily, Italy: The Cusumano family has been making wine for more than 60 years on the southern Italian island of Sicily. Their expertise and craft shows in the glass of this exceptional red wine. An exceptional wine for the money! This Italian red wine is made from the Nero d'Avola grape, the iconic red grape of the island of Sicily. Layers of fleshy black (nero) fruit and pepper spice. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2015-2019. 143164 14% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2017
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Monte del Frá Lena Di Mezzo Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2015, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A voluptuous, supple Italian red wine with layers of black cherry, anise, coffee, mocha, dark chocolate and smoke aromas and flavours. Vibrant red berry notes with pepper and dark spice. Very lively on the palate with terrific acidity for tangy dishes and tomato sauces. This wine will cellar well. Drink: 2018-2022. 165662 14% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. January 3, 2019
Top Rated Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
Masi Campofiorin 2014, Veneto IGT, Italy: An attractive ruby hue in the glass. Aromas of fleshy ripe red berries and dark spice. A robust Italian red wine with polished tannins. Juicy acidity for tangy tomato and meat sauces.
Drink: 2018-2023. 297655 13% XD 375 mL $16.00 Score: 90/100. February 28, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Cecchi Storia Di Famiglia Chianti Classico 2015, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: An amazing price for this juicy, robust Italian red wine from the heart of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region. Made from the iconic Sangiovese grape, this terrific wine aromas of dark cherry, smoke and a lick of spice. Long finish. Pair with grilled meats and pasta with tomato sauce. Drink: 2018-2022. 540922 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.15 Score: 90/100. January 5, 2019
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
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. Drink: 2018-2022. 134544 12.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. July 7, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Beni di Batasiolo Langhe Rosso 2014, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Full-bodied with good acidity for tangy tomato dishes. Dried black fruit and some dried herbs. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2017-2020. 981019 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. October 6, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Cantina Zaccagnini Tralcetto Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2020, Abruzzo D.O.C., Italy: Zaccagnini Tralcetto 2020 Montepulciano D'abruzzo is great value at $17. Wine grower Marcello Zaccagnini founded this winery in 1978. Although now on the international wine stage, each bottle is still wrapped with a dried vine cutting from the vineyards. Produced from 100% Montepulciano, deep and rich with dark plum, cherry, mocha, savoury herbs, spicy and smoky on the palate. Soul flavourful. Drink: 2022-2027. 396382 12.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. April 29, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Fontanafredda Gavi Di Gavi 2016, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Frontanafredda 2013 Gavi de Gavi is made from 100% Cortese wine grapes. On the palate this dry white is ripe yellow apples, almonds and creamy and finishes with a zingy acidity.
Drink: 2018-2020. 366948 12.50% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. July 21, 2018
Best Value White Wine. Profound Pasta and Cream Sauce Wine Full Review
Whitehaven Pinot Noir 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This medium-bodied New Zealand red wine is satin smooth and tickles the senses. Juicy, fleshy bright cherries and dark chocolate dance across your senses with this pinot noir. Ultra-supple and sensuous. Amazingly great price for a flagship wine. Cloudy Bay put New Zealand on the wine map for its Sauvignon Blanc, but this Pinot Noir holds its own and deserves its own shining place in the wine world. Please make me some seared tuna and top up my glass. Pinot noir is New Zealand's benchmark red wine and it shows why in this wine. Highly recommended. Drink: 2017-2020. 532929 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 93/100. December 8, 2017
Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Kim Crawford Pinot Noir 2015, Marlborough, New Zealand: Always a delight! This Kim Crawford Pinot Noir is a perfect balance between fleshy ripe plums and lively, racy acidity for dishes such as grilled pork chops. Medium-bodied, smooth and supple. Terrific value. Drink: 2017-2021. 626390 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. October 30, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: A lovely, mouth-watering South African white wine made form the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Aromas of lemongrass and chives. Perfect for fresh seafood and roast turkey. Drink: 2018-2021. 456020 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. July 21, 2018
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Rio Madre Graciano 2016, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A juicy, full-bodied Spanish red wine with aromas of fleshy ripe purple and black plums and toasty oak. Made from the Graciano grape. Pair with rack of lamb. Drink: 2018-2024. 354753 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. July 21, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Torres Sangre de Toro Garnacha 2016, Catalonia, Spain: A beautiful, juicy, delicious wine, especially for this price point! Aromas of fleshy ripe dark plums and spice. Perfect for grilled lamb. Drink: 2018-2022. 6585 13.50% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 90/100. July 5, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Borsao Berola 2018, Campo de Borja D.O., Spain: From the Campo De Borja wine region in Spain, Borsao Berola 2018 is produced from Grenache and Syrah grown in high-altitude vineyards up to 700 metres above sea level and spent 14 months ageing in a mix of French and American oak barrels. Dry, fresh and fruity with concentrated black fruits, smoky toasty oak and pepper spice flavours rich and vibrant on the palate. Pour this bright beauty with a short rib ragu. Berola is the original name for the 12th century monastery of Veruela when the land was first granted to Cistercian monks to tend and plant as vineyards. Established in 1958, Bodegas Borsao has grown to include three co-ops with some 620 wine growers who cultivate over 2,430 hectares of vines. Drink: 2022-2025. 371518 15% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. November 18, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Atalaya Laya Almansa 2020, Almansa D.O.P., Spain: Laya 2020 is a vegan-friendly, full-bodied and smooth red wine blend of 70% Grenache Tintorera and 30% Monastrell grapes sourced from Spain's Almansa wine region from vineyards 1000 metres above sea level. Look for juicy, ripe blueberry, blackberry, spiced plum and smoky flavours on this vibrant red with dusty tannins. The wine was fermented in stainless-steel tank with full malolactic conversion in oak barrel, where the wine also matured for four months. Enjoy with ribs from the grill or a sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2022-2025. 132605 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 9, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full Review
Hacienda López de Haro Crianza 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: From the Rioja wine region, Hacienda López de Haro Crianza 2019 is great value at $17. A smooth and savoury, medium-bodied red wine blend of Tempranillo with a splash of Grenache and Graciano, this wine is so easy to love with its dark cherry, blueberry, anise, cocoa and toasty oak spice flavours vibrant on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Pour with kebabs and burgers from the grill. Drink: 2022-2026. 377481 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. September 10, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
CVNE Viña Real Crianza 2014, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A Full-bodied with black smoky fruit. Delicious lip-smacking juicy Spanish red wine with savoury notes of dried herbs as well as smoky red fruits. Decant 1 hour. Pair with grilled pork chops or lamb. Drink: 2017-2020. 657411 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. October 6, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full Review
Torres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Penedès, Spain: Terrific intensity and concentration of flavour yet it's balanced, structured and sculpted. Superb Spanish Cabernet! The grapes for this lusciously ripe Spanish Cabernet Sauvignon grow on vines planted on the belvedere of the Mas la Palana estate. Aromas of blackberry jam, dark spice and some pepper. Pair with grilled steak. Drink: 2015-2022. 36483 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 20, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Torres Sangre De Toro Garnacha 2015, Catalonia, Spain: A beautiful, juicy, delicious wine, especially for this price point! Aromas of fleshy ripe dark plums and spice. Perfect for grilled lamb. Drink: 2015-2019. 6585 13.50% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 89/100. June 16, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Alvear de Anada Pedro Ximenez 2014, Montilla-Moriles, Spain: A gorgeous, rich Sherry with a luxurious depth and mouth-filling texture. Aromas raisin flan and toasted nuts. Skip dessert and just have this. Drink: 2016-2025. 499152 16% S 375 mL $24.95 Score: 95/100. February 6, 2017
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2009, D.O., Campo De Borja, Spain: Savoury-juicy great! Seductive nose of ripe blackberries and wild cherries. Layers and layers of rich, full-bodied flavour. Fantastic quality for this price. Drink: 2012-2016. 273748 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. April 28, 2012
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Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha 2010, D.O., Campo De Borja, Spain: Some mocha and dark chocolate on the nose is quickly flooded with lusciously ripe black fruit on the palate. Full-bodied and smooth. This winery is located south of Rioja and is comprised of 100% Garnacha grapes. The wine itself was matured in 50/50 stainless steel and French barrels. A long, satisfying finish. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013-2019. 273748 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 19, 2013
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Segura Viudas Heredad Brut Reserva Traditional Method Cava, D.O., Spain: Here's your sparkling wine for the holidays (and year round)! Terrific value in this well-made, toasty and refreshing bubbly from Spain that's a third of the price of Champagne. Segura is one of the most respected producers of Cava, the Spanish name for sparkling wine. Terrific earthy aromas mingle with toasted almond and some green apple. Great aperitif or try it with roast turkey, friend chicken, or yes, even potato chips. 558825 12% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. October 25, 2014
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Brut Cava, Penedès D.O., Spain: A delightful, flavourful Spanish sparkling wine from one of the country's best producers. This is a fraction of the price of Champagne, and yet performs at that level. Crisp with lime lift and a long fresh finish. Drink: 2022-2024. 392548 12% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. November 4, 2023
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Decoy Duckhorn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: This robust Californian cabernet is almost chiseled in structure. Loaded with dark fruit aromas and flavours, it delivers. Generous character with great fruit, structure, complexity and balance. Now let's try it with duck comfit, shall we? Drink: 2014-2019. 186171 13.90% D 750 mL $31.95 Score: 92/100. March 7, 2015
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Sterling Vineyards Vintner's Collection Merlot 2013, California, United States: Fleshy ripe plums and blackberries. Juicy, layered and full-bodied. Perfect for grilled lamb or pork chops. Drink: 2014-2018. 622837 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. December 3, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: A juicy, supple, full-bodied Washington State red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberries and cassis. Pair with a grilled pepper steak. Drink: 2016-2021. 269357 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. June 9, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2015, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Fleshy cherry and dark spice with a long, naughty finish on this California Pinot Noir. Medium-bodied and satin smooth like lingerie. A supple red wine with cherry-berry mouth-filling wonder and flavours. Just enough oak for hedonists. Layered yet not heavy. This pinot has been one of my favourites for years. Satin seduction in a glass. Pair with roasted turkey or chicken. Drink: 2018-2022. 719435 13.90% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. March 31, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Josh Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Aromas of black fruit and toasty oak. Firm tannins. Finishes with smoke and all-spice. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2015-2019. 461053 13.50% D 750 mL $17.00 Score: 89/100. April 20, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review