Wolf Blass Yellow Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Langhorne Creek McLaren Vale, Australia: Wolf Blass first made 250 cases of the Grey Label Shiraz, but realized he could not earn a living based on such a small production of a premium-priced wine. Thus was born Yellow Label in 1966. It was created to be a crowd pleaser with the goal of quality, character and consistency, according to current winemaker Chris Matcher. Consistency is key as Yellow Label is designed to give consumers confidence that they are getting the same signature taste each time. That was the challenge to maintain when Yellow Label moved to regional selection of grapes for this vintage rather than widespread blending. Chris says that they achieve it through careful vineyard management and barrel selection. This Cabernet offers great value and attractive aromas of blackcurrant and cassis. Pair with a juicy steak. Drink: 2016-2021. 251876 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 8, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem 2014, CĂ´tes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi A.C, France: This Cotes du Roussillon Villages Latour de France Occultum Lapidem sources grapes grown on vines planted in schist soils close to the village of Latour de France. It's a red wine blend of mostly Syrah and Grenache along with some Carignan grapes. The wine was matured in concrete tanks. Produced by M. Chapoutier, this is benchmark Rhone Valley red wine from a spectacular vintage. Black fruit, smoke, tar and black pepper. Full-bodied, balanced, concentrated with great depth. An incredible wine for this price point. Pair with filet mignon. Drink: 2017-2022. 643239 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 95/100. April 24, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
14 Hands Merlot 2014, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: The vines for this terrific Merlot are planted at the southern limit of the Yakima Valley in the foothills of Washington state's Horse Heaven Hills wine region. This wine is bursting with fleshy ripe black plums, cherry and mocha. The horses on the label are a tribute to the wild horses that once roamed the Hose Heaven Hills. They were approximately 14 hands tall: small but sturdy and strong, known for their unbridled strength and freedom. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014-2018. 463000 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 16, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Beringer Founders' Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, 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: 2016-2021. 534263 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. April 25, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review