Catena Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mendoza, Argentina: Dark woodsmoke and blackcurrant and cassis on the nose. A noble and elegant structure and balance and length. August character. Drink: 2010-2014. 985002 13.90% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. June 11, 2011
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Alzamora Grand Reserve Syrah 2005, San Juan, Argentina: This wine has it all: elegance, depth, length and terrific fruit concentration. It's a captivating wine with many layers of flavor to discover and dive into. Notes of black raspberry, blackberry, clove, rose and violet. Aged in French oak for 12 months. Fleshy and full-bodied and ultimately satisfying. 14% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 94/100. June 12, 2009
Full Review
Zolo Fincas Patagonicas Torrontés 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: The aromatic Torrontés is quickly becoming Argentina’s flagship white grape. Look for pretty aromas of pear, peach, apricot and citrus. Dry and very flavourful, this sprightly wine is a fine choice. My note: Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried Torrontes, the grape. This is a wonderful interpretation of peachy-floral splendor. Ignore the price as it’ll bias you because it’s so low. Drink: 2011-2014. 183913 13.60% D 750 mL $13.25 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Fincas De Agrelo Malbec 2008, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: This Malbec from Luján de Cuyo shows the intensity this sub-region of Mendoza is known for, and offers exceptional value. A fine food-match wine for flavourful meat-based pasta dishes. My note: Tasty and delicious with full-bodied richness and black fruit. Perfect for BBQs and movie night Drink: 2011-2015. 234492 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 90/100. September 3, 2011
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Maipe Reserve Proviva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Succulently ripe black fruit with a lovely dark chocolate note. Like falling into a room of black satin cushions blind-folded. Drink: 2011-2015. 246116 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
BenMarco Dominio Del Plata Malbec 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Savoury and delicious with fleshy black plums and a meaty note through the middle that makes me want to chew on the wine. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth. Drink: 2011-2015. 657601 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 92/100. November 26, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Catena Chardonnay 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Oh yum! Buttery richness drips around a green apple core of vibrancy. Full-bodied, but not heavy. One of the best chardonnays I have tasted in a while. Drink: 2012-2017. 918805 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 14, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Terrazas De Los Andes Reserva Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Love it! Meaty and mouth-watering with gorgeous ripe dark berries. Smooth and full-bodied. Juiciness and acidity cry out for a food companion, especially for the hearty meat variety. Decant 1 hour. Some blackberry and anise on the finish. Drink: 2011-2015. 29280 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. May 25, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Alta Vista Premium Chardonnay 2012, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: A fabulous find! Full-bodied, buttery chardonnay a discount price. Lovely richness and satisfaction. Yay! Drink: 2013-2016. 166504 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. October 26, 2013
Best Value White Wine. Smart Buy Wine Full Review
Zolo Reserve, Fincas Patagónicas Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: What an incredible wine for this price! Full-bodied with attractive aromas of blackberry and cassis. Good balance with a long, satisfying finish. This winery produces other terrific reds as well, so keep an eye out for this producer. Pair this wine with a juicy, rare steak and full-bodied conversation tonight. Drink: 2013-2016. 54098 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. October 26, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Valle Las Acequias Luis Segundo Correas Malbec Oak 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: A terrific full-bodied red wine for the money! Robust, generous aromas and flavours of blackberries and black plums. There's toasty oak and dark chocolate on the finish with some blackberry preserves. Vanilla spice gives it a kick. Try it with a pepper steak. Drink: 2012-2015. 138412 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. January 4, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Don David Finca La Urquiza #8 Michel Torino Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina: Staggeringly great value for this robust red wine! Aromas of black fruit, smoke, herbs, and the satisfaction of having paid so little for so much. Smooth, though decant for 1 hour and pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014-2018. 357459 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 4, 2014
Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Domaine Tournon Mathilda M. Chapoutier Shiraz 2011, Victoria, Australia: Loaded with black pepper, dark spice and intrigue on the nose of this beguiling, full-bodied red wine. Once again, Chapoutier over delivers no matter where he makes wine in the world. This is an incredible price. Dark fruit and smoke on the finish. Drink: 2014-2018. 327395 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. June 7, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Zonte's Footstep Avalon Tree Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Loaded with fruit, this full-bodied red wine over-delivers on its price. Some cedar, spice and more dark fruit on the finish. Try it with hamburgers. Drink: 2014-2017. 353193 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 4, 2014
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Robert Oatley Vineyards Signature Series Chardonnay 2012, Margaret River, New South Wales, Western Australia, Australia: A full-bodied white wine that's rich and buttery with some smoke on the nose from generous oak aging. Supple, layered and tasty. Great price. Try with seafood pasta in a cream sauce or roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2013-2016. 350900 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 4, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Turkey Flat Butchers Block Shiraz Grenache Mourvèdre 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Exceptional value! Full-bodied and delicious with aromas of fleshy black plum and berry. Round and smooth and mouth-filling. Drink: 2013-2016. 90241 14% D 750 mL $21.25 Score: 91/100. October 26, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Oscar's Estate Shiraz Viognier 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Like the dark hero on a romance novel: take me now! Brooding, full-bodied, muscular and well, you know, seductive. Black fruit aromas, savoury flavours with a long finish (most importantly). Again please, and again. Drink: 2012-2016. 287961 15.90% XD 750 mL $17.25 Score: 93/100. September 28, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Evans & Tate Metricup Road Chardonnay 2010, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Lovely lemon and lime lift on the nose. A lean, crisp style of chardonnay that still is packed with flavour. Great food versatility from roast chicken to seafood. Amazing value. Drink: 2012-2015. 311449 13.50% D 750 mL $17.25 Score: 90/100. April 13, 2013
Best Value White Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Over The Shoulder Oakridge Wines Chardonnay 2011, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia: Toasted almond and white peach brightness on the nose. Full-bodied, juicy and layered. Lovely craftsmanship! Drink: 2012-2016. 285759 12.30% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. October 13, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Hickinbotham Shiraz Cabernet 2009, South Australia, Australia: Savoury and delicious with rich dark layers of black fruit and a hint of mint and smoke. Amazingly great price. Cries out for a juicy steak. Please help this wine now! Drink: 2013-2016. 159632 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. March 30, 2013
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay 2010, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: A chardonnay lover's chardonnay: buttery and rich, yet balanced with mouth-brightening green apple acidity. Lovely for lobster in butter and long conversations into the evening by a campfire (or space heater). Drink: 2012-2016. 416511 12.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. May 26, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Best's Great Western Bin No. 1 Shiraz 2009, Grampians, Victoria, Australia: Juicy and savoury with some mouth-watering chewy flavours of dark fruit. Amazing price for this quality. Great dinner party wine. Drink: 2012-2016. 222323 14.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. May 26, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Two Hands Wines Angels' Share Shiraz 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A gusher of a wine with mouth-watering fleshy ripe aromas and flavours of blackberries and dark raspberries. Loaded with flavour and character. Smooth and full-bodied with a delightfully long finish. You'll want to hold on to this wine with two hands, lest someone try to snatch it from you! Drink: 2012-2016. 9480 15.60% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 93/100. May 26, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
The Hedonist Walter Clappis Wine Co. Shiraz 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Savory, meaty and juicy with luscious layers of black fruit. Mouth-watering and perfect for food. Bring it on. Drink: 2011-2016. 90191 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
Clairault Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Smoky like two cigars wrapping a wreath of smoke around black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2011-2015. 246876 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
Hungerford Hill Fishcage Shiraz 2009, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: Love the savoury note that balances the fruit plushness here! Black fruit with a mouth-watering core juiciness. Amazing for the price. Drink: 2011-2014. 77958 14.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. October 29, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Ferngrove Shiraz 2007, Frankland River, Western Australia, Australia: Deep, dark and brooding with aromas of blackberry, cassis and cedar box. Great gift or dinner party bottle. 90282 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. May 23, 2009
Full Review
Elderton Friends Shiraz 2010, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Vintages Wine Panel: If you want to impress your friends without breaking the bank, then this is your wine. From the prestigious Barossa region, this crowd-pleasing Shiraz is rich and vivacious with aromas and flavours of crushed berries, black plum, vanilla, chocolate and earthy notes. A stunning value, this smooth and opulent red is great. My note: Incredible concentration and power for the price. Big blackberries and currants in a lovely weave of full-bodied weight and velvet texture. Drink: 2010-2014. 660480 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. June 11, 2011
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Flat Rock Chardonnay 2008, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario VQA, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine won Judges’ Choice honours for Oaked Chardonnay at the Wine Access 2011 International Value Wine Awards. Try this impressive Chardonnay. My note: Toasted almonds and hazelnuts wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy. Luscious and lively: could you ask for a better combination? I think not. Drink: 2011-2015. 681247 11.90% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. September 3, 2011
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Tawse Winery Inc. Chardonnay 2009, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Complex almond and baking spice nose followed by a sunburst of green apple and white peach. Superb! Drink: 2011-2016. 253518 13% XD 375 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. November 12, 2011
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Tawse Winery Inc. Sketches Of Niagara Riesling 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Stunning! Incredibly intensity of flavor and mouth-filling juiciness. Medium-bodied. This winery truly deserves its reputation. Drink: 2011-2015. 89029 10% MD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. February 2, 2013
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
De Martino Legado Reserva Carmenère 2008, Maipo Valley, Chile: Vintages Wine Panel: A truly inviting nose that offers herbal, brambleberry and spice notes wonderfully intermingled with suggestions of rich fruit and cocoa. The palate is dry, crisp, medium bodied, and yet complex and layered too. There is also a sweet fruit centre and an impressive finish. My note: Come dance with me nose! Lusciously ripe blueberries and blackberries leap out of the glass. Full-bodied and smooth with an incredible price point. Drink: 2011-2015. 282615 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 26, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Mayu Gran Reserva Carmenère 2009, Elqui Valley, Coquimbo, Chile: Love it! Big smoky. Mocha black fruit with generous layers of luscious dark flavours on the palate. Terrific price for such quality. Drink: 2012-2015. 90035 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. June 9, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Potro De Piedra Family Reserve Viña Requingua Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc 2008, Curicó Valley, Chile: New World fruit and energy with Old World styling and balance. Really liking this wine! Terrific balance with juicy, mouth-watering dark fruit flavours and a lovely finish. Drink: 2012-2016. 273995 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. June 9, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Montes Alpha Carmenère 2009, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Yes, yes, yes! I am referring to the wine: this is simply amazing for the price. The total package. Packed with gorgeously layered fruit yet there’s acidity and elegance. Drink: 2011-2015. 143230 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 10, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Valle Andino Reserva Especial Agricola Y Commercial Santa Camila Syrah 2008, Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley, Chile: Pretty darn amazing for the price, even at twice the price. Lusciously ripe black fruit with layers of juicy pleasure that will make you regret buying only one bottle. Full-bodied and some kinda wonderful. Drink: 2012-2015. 272682 14.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 91/100. June 23, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Mayu Gran Reserva Carmenère 2011, Elqui Valley, Coquimbo, Chile: Love it! Big smoky, mocha aromas with generous layers of luscious black fruit on the palate. Terrific price for such quality. Carmenère is the flagship grape of Chile, and it shows in this glass. There's a lovely weave of dried tobacco and espresso on the finish. Decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with a hearty meat dish. Drink: 2013-2016. 90035 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 4, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Château Rahoul Alain Thiénot, Prop. Meritage 2010, A.C., Graves, Bordeaux, France: Glorious richness and balance in this full-bodied, complex and concentrated Bordeaux at a bargain price (for Bordeaux). Fleshy black fruit wrapped gently in a toasty oak blanket. Long finish. Great for dinner parties and hostess gifts. Drink: 2013-2018. 226043 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 14, 2015
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Domaine Lafage Cuvée Nicolas Vieilles Vinges Grenache Noir 2010, I.G.P., Côtes Catalanes, Bordeaux, France: A spectacular, robust red wine with glorious aromas and flavours of black cherry liqueur, anise and smoke. Loaded with seductive black raspberry on the finish. Superb craftsmanship! Drink: 2013-2017. 354191 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 23, 2013
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Jean-Pierre & Alexandre Ellevin Vaucoupin 1Er Cru Domaine Ellevin Chablis 2011, Burgundy, France: An elegant expression of Chablis with white peach and melon notes and a pure crispness. No oak on this chardonnay, just Burgundy in the glass. Try it with fresh seafood or shellfish. Drink: 2013-2017. 264457 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. January 4, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Tessellae Old Vines Côtes Du Roussillon Domaine Lafage Carignan 2011, A.P., Midi, France: Fresh, full-bodied and invigorating: those adjectives don't usually go together but in this wine they blend beautifully. Although the alcohol is high, this full-bodied wine is nimble on its feet and tastes balanced and just right. Aromas of fleshy black fruit, just enough toast from oak and a cool breeze across a moor of garrigue on a long finish. Drink: 2013-2018. 343517 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. October 12, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Château Saint-Roch Chimères Chimères Maison Lafage 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: Intriguing! 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 LSD. Drink: 2013-2016. 119354 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. March 30, 2013
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Le Ferme Du Mont Le Ponnant Stéphane Vedeau 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Savoury, cedary and chewy with satisfying aromas and flavours of black cherry and forest floor. Full-bodied and smooth, though decant for an hours for maximum pleasure. Drink: 2012-2016. 171371 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. July 7, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Domaine Des Fines Caillottes Jean Pabiot & Fils Pouilly-Fumé 2011, A.C., Loire, France: Savoury and mouth-watering, and quite unlike New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. More dried herbs and lemon-smoke than cut grass. I love this style as it’s less in-your-face, more subtle. Classic signature of the region and wine style of Pouilly-Fumé that offers a exuberant vigour and sensory tingle on the nose and palate. This review was also published in the Vintages Catalogue. Drink: 2011-2014. 695908 12.50% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. August 3, 2013
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Château De Pennautier Terroirs D'altitude Cabardès Comte Nicolas De Lorgeril, Prop. 2009, A.C., Midi, France: A brooding black bruiser that offer aromas and flavours of fleshy black fruit, tar and smoke. Concentrated and deep. Good price. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013-2016. 328187 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 17, 2013
Best Value Red Wine. Enchanting Feta Cheese Wine Full Review
Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir Grenache Syrah 2009, A.P., Côteaux Du Languedoc, Montpeyroux, Midi, France: Incredibly juicy with fleshy ripe purple and black plums and the most seductive aromas of wild violets in the middle of a forest. A profusion for the senses. Make yourself happy. Drink: 2012-2016. 147983 13.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. June 9, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Le Ferme Du Mont Le Ponnant Stéphane Vedeau 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Super-duper (pulling out all the technical tasting terms now)! Juicy come-alive black fleshy cherry, some smoke and a gorgeous, give-me-more full-bodied smooth texture. Fantastic price. Drink: 2011-2016. 171371 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. November 26, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Domaine Chenevières Chablis Chardonnay 2010, A.C., La Chapelle Vaupelteigne, Burgundy, France: Just smelling this wine made my mouth water! Gorgeous aromas and flavours of lime, lemongrass, tart white peach and a laser pure focus and purity. No oak. Superb aperitif or food companion. Like chardonnay? Try this one. Drink: 2012-2016. 277913 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 12, 2012
Full Review
Château Fongaban Meritage 2006, A.C., Côtes De Castillon, France: Incredible for the price! Full-bodied and juicy with black fruit and smoke. Lip-smacking delicious layers of fleshy ripe blackberries. Top me up! Drink: 2011-2015. 138735 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 12, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Ferraton Père & Fils La Matinière Crozes-Hermitage Syrah Shiraz 2009, A.C., Rhône, France: Fleshy black cherries in a cedar box jump out of the glass. This wine is so delicious! Mouth-watering on the palate with more juicy dark red berries. Full-bodied. Decant 1-2 hours. Amazing price. Drink: 2011-2016. 127712 13% XD 750 mL $28.25 Score: 90/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
Chusclan Les Genêts Vign. Laudun Chusclan 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Incredibly delicious for this price! Rich, ripe dark fruit with a nza.ice weave of smoke throughout. Perfect for potluck, and meat lovers’ pizza. Drink: 2011-2018. 245399 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
Château De Haute-Serre Georges Vigouroux, Prop.-Récolt. Malbec 2008, A.C., Cahors, Southwest, France: Dark and full-bodied with black fruit and a lifted mid-palate of gorgeously ripe flavours and mouth-watering juiciness. Drink: 2011-2017. 693952 13.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. November 12, 2011
Full Review
Perrin & Fils Syrah Grenache 2009, A.C., Rhône, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine has plenty of enjoyment to offer tonight with gourmet hamburgers and all the trimmings. My note: This price has to be a typo: buy a case before they discover the mistake! Juicy, savoury, chewy and satisfying, this full-bodied red has ripe cherries and meaty notes. Smooth and full-bodied. This 50/50 blend of Syrah and Grenache grapes is the Ultimate Barbecue Wine. Drink: 2011-2015. 241604 14% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. June 25, 2011
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Domaine Les Verrières Les Sept Fontaines 2009, Languedoc, Midi, France: Spicy, racy and peppery: a terrific full-bodied red wine. Great price. Aromas of pitch black fruit and smoke. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. This is an AP-designated wine. Drink: 2014-2017. 362913 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 4, 2014
Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Château De Nages Vielles Vignes Michel Gassier 2010, Costières De Nîmes, Rhône, France: This is a spicy blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre grapes. It's juicy, smooth and layered. The grapes were de-stemmed and both the Syrah and Mourvèdre components were matured for 1 year on the lees in French oak barrels. The Grenache portion is kept in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. This AC wine was bottled without filtration. This is a fantastic wine from Gassier and winemaking consultant, Philippe Cambie, especially for this price. Aromas of wild dark fruit, dried herbs, spice, and cedar underbrush. Highly recommended. Drink: 2014-2018. 40964 15% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. January 18, 2014
Spectacular Spicy Wine Full Review
Schloss Reinhartshausen Dry Pinot Noir 2007, Q.B.A., Rheingau, Germany: Juicy and lovely! Smooth and medium-bodied, packed with cherry-berry and earthy notes. Terrific mouth-watering character for food. This is my kinda pinot. Yum! Drink: 2012-2016. 40543 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. June 23, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese 2009, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: Sublime! Lime vibrancy delivered on a bed of honeysuckle that's not cloyingly sweet. Drink: 2012-2019. 197186 7.50% S 750 mL $30.95 Score: 94/100. June 9, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Masi Brolo Campofiorin Oro Appaxximento 2009, I.G.T., Rosso Del Veronese, Veneto, Italy: Smooth, full-bodied and lovely with mocha and dark fruit goodness. Gorgeous replays of black plum and cherry across the palate. Finishes with a touch spice and espresso. Highly recommended. Drink: 2012-2016. 976092 14% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. September 13, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Mazzei Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy Drink: 2012-2016. 288530 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95. July 6, 2013
Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Zenato Lugana Riserva Sergio Zenato 2009, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Exotic and delicious, somewhat like semillon with toasty oak. Lemon lanolin richness. Will cellar. Drink: 2012-2017. 928218 13.50% XD 750 mL $50.00 Score: 92/100. October 13, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Toscolo Riserva Chianti Classico 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Lovely! Mocha but not too much, just a warming edge along with fleshy black plum. Full-bodied and almost smooth (nothing that 2 hours of decanting can't solve). Layered and delicious. Drink: 2013-2018. 69369 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. October 26, 2013
Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Cusumano Noà 2010, Sicily, Italy: Exceptional value and quality for the price! This full-bodied red wine is smooth with mocha richness and brooding black plums slipping in underneath. Dark spice and smoke on a long finish. Terrific structure and balance. Demands hearty meat dishes and your full commitment. This wine is a blend of Nero d’Avola, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Nero d'Avola is the flagship red wine of Sicily: try it tonight with hamburgers. Drink: 2013-2016. 109512 12.50% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. January 4, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot Noir 2008, New Zealand, New Zealand: A juicy, generous pinot with a tumble of fleshy ripe raspberries over your tongue and senses. Medium-bodied and silky smooth, this is a terrific red. Drink: 2012-2016. 14548 13.50% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. July 7, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Astrolabe Voyage Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Smoky, almost cedar smoked cherries. Love this style! Be prepared with a wake-up call with mouth-brightening acidity that cries out for food. Supple, satin smooth with a medium to full-bodied weight. Simply stunning. Drink: 2012-2017. 538918 14.50% XD 750 mL $27.25 Score: 94/100. May 26, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Oyster Bay Pinot Noir 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Toasty oak on the nose wraps around fleshy ripe black cherries. Full-bodied, mouth-watering juicy and smooth with a great finish. Smoky and toasty. Terrific with a wide range of dishes. Yum! Long finish. Drink: 2012-2017. 590414 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 31, 2013
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Paul Cluver Chardonnay 2010, W.O., Elgin, South Africa: Drop to your knees gorgeous. Makes me love chardonnay all over again. Buttery, rich, Asian pear and laughter play on the senses. Full-bodied and generous, but not heavy. Ripe green melon notes mid-palate then finishes with a sweep of toast. Are you cooking the roast chicken tonight, or am I? Drink: 2012-2017. 277939 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. June 9, 2012
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Reyneke Wines Reserve White Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa: This wine spent 16 months in barrel and offers lovely floral, citrus and stone fruit aromas. Perfectly balanced with incredible depth and intensity and a long quince-infused finish. Drink: 2010-2016. 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 94/100. May 13, 2010
Full Review
The Chocolate Block Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Shiraz 2010, W.O., Western Cape, South Africa: Savoury, complex and delicious: wow! Cassis, blackberry and cedar forest. Meaty and enticing, full-bodied wonderful. Drink: 2012-2016. 129353 14.50% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. November 10, 2012
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Ken Forrester Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Clean and fresh like an early spring breeze. Mouth-watering, medium-bodied and crisp. Terrific white peach and floral notes. I continue to be impressed with South African chenin blanc: it's a lovely change from other whites. Great for after an evening dip in the pool. Try it! Drink: 2012-2015. 231282 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. August 3, 2013
Best Value White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Ernie Els Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, W.O. Stellenbosch, South Africa: Savoury, juicy and loaded with black fruit. Decant 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Smooth and satisfying like a hole in one. Loaded with purple and black plums and attractive dark spice and smoke on the finish. Els had retired from golfing, then returned with a flourish, winning the 2012 British Open. Let's raise a glass to him! Drink: 2013-2016. 278358 14.60% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. October 26, 2013
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Vinum Africa The Winery Of Good Hope Chenin Blanc 2011, W.O., Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa: Seductive with fleshy peach and toasty oak on the nose. Full-bodied with lots of mouth-watering acidity for food. Great! Almost as superb as the 2010 vintage of this wine. Drink: 2013-2016. 739995 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. October 26, 2013
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
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
Torres Gran Sangre De Toro Reserva Garnacha Cariñena 2007, D.O., Catalunya, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Throughout the wine world Miguel Torres is known as the “King of Spain,” and his name is synonymous with quality. Intense, ripe and delicious, this velvety and full-bodied Reserva is a blend of Garnacha (aka Grenache), Cariñena and Syrah and offers aromas and flavours of blackberry and spice, with a long finish. Quite versatile, this wine will pair well with stuffed peppers. My note: An absolutely terrific red, especially at this price point! Rich and savoury and juicy with dark plums, berries, smoke and dark spice. This wine would be amazing with a variety of hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2011-2015. 315648 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. June 25, 2011
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Juan Gil White Label De Cepas Viejas Monastrell 2010, D.O., Jumilla, Spain: Deal of the Century! Full-bodied, juicy, savoury and delicious. Loaded with dark wild blackberries and forest-deep cherries and cedar. Oh yum. Drink: 2012-2015. 13656 14.50% XD 750 mL $14.25 Score: 90/100. May 12, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Ramón Bilbao Reserva 2005, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Coffee aromas mingle sensually with fleshy black plum notes. Full-bodied and supple. Very delicious! Drink: 2012-2015. 281097 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. June 23, 2012
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Vina Robles White 4 2010, Huerhuero Vineyard, Paso Robles, California, United States: Reminds me of Caymus Conundrum blend: white floral and baking spice notes. Medium to full-bodied and ready for mild curries and spices. Drink: 2013-2016. 313460 14.20% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2, 2013
Spectacular Spicy Wine Full Review
Seven Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel 2010, Lodi, California, United States: Wow! Coffee smoke and fleshy black plums on the nose. Layers of pleasure and full-bodied richness on the palate. Long finish. Top me up please! Drink: 2013-2016. 59311 14.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. March 7, 2013
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Sterling Vineyards Vintner's Collection Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied, lusciously mouth-filling and tasty, especially for the price. Aromas of toasty oak, green apple and white peach on the nose and palate. This is a chardonnay that will please many palates and pair well with a wide range of dishes. Long finish. Drink: 2012-2016. 669242 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. March 7, 2013
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel 2010, Lodi, California, United States: Incredible concentration and mouth-watering lusciousness. There's also 25 percent petite sirah to add depth and layering. Terrific concentration of flavour from these old-vine grapes shows through. Remarkable, especially for the price. Long finish, great satisfaction! Try it with grilled meats. Drink: 2013-2016. 942599 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. May 25, 2013
Top Rated Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Grove Street Pinot Noir 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: Juicy cherry berry aromas with some mocha. Round and mouth-filling and smooth. Lovely sunset wine. Drink: 2013-2017. 231613 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 26, 2013
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review