Tawse Winery Inc. Cuddy By Tawse Cabernet Merlot 2013, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario VQA, Canada: A seductive mocha, espresso nose on this distinguished Niagara red wine blend of Cabernet France, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. This wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. Rich and smooth on the palate, with a long, satisfying finish inflected with blackberry, dark spice and smoke. Decant 1-2 hours. The 2013 vintage is the inaugural release of this wine. Jim Cuddy, lead singer and guitarist of the Canadian band Blue Rodeo, has partnered with Niagara’s Tawse Winery to create a new wine brand, Cuddy by Tawse. Cuddy is one of the country’s most iconic musicians: over the past thirty years Blue Rodeo has sold more than four million records, released 14 albums and won eleven JUNO awards. Pair this wine with a rare steak and the band's hit song "Try," aptly named for tasting this new wine. Drink: 2016-2021. 469031 12.50% XD 750 mL  $25.25 Score: 93/100. June 24, 2017 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Château De La Grave Caractere 2012, Côtes De Bourg, Bordeaux A.C., France: Very sexy Merlot on the nose and palate from the sensational 2012 vintage. Seductive aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries with some clove dust mingling in between. Pleasingly grip yet it's velvet smooth. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with veal chops. Exceptional for the price. Drink: 2014-2020. 224683 13.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 28, 2016 Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review

Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2013, Veneto, Italy: Sweet purple plums and blueberry pie flavours. Relatively smooth and full-bodied. Pair with Mexican mole or sweet main entrees. Drink: 2014-2017. 910430 13% D 750 mL  $22.95 Score: 84/100. September 5, 2015 Spectacular Spicy Wine Full Review