Santa Julia Familia Zuccardi Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Mendoza, Argentina: Vintages Wine Panel: From the always-reliable Familia Zuccardi comes this perennial smart buy. Argentina consistently offers wine lovers incredible value, even beyond its benchmark Malbec wines, and this elegant Cab is a case in point. With its lovely black cherry fruit and notes of spice, mint and smoke, this medium-bodied wine pairs beautifully. My note: A blackberry greeting is followed by lovely aromas of ripe cassis and blackcurrant. Elegant structure and a nice long finish. 93781 14% XD 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 90/100. January 9, 2010 Favourite Red Wine. Full Review

Evans & Tate Cabernet Merlot 2004, Margaret River, Australia: A juicy, generous red with lovely, heart-stopping aromas of blackberry and fleshy plum. Great finish. 721548 14.50% D 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 90/100. February 20, 2010 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Domaine Puig-Parahy Georges Carignan Grenache Syrah 2007, A.C., Côtes De Roussillon, Midi, France: A blend of Carignan, Grenache and a little Syrah. Fantastic peppery, blackberry nose! Supple and full-bodied with a deep, dark concentration of flavour. Chewy tannins and a long, satisfying finish. I can’t believe how low the price is for this one. Drink: 2010-2015. 171025 14.50% XD 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 91/100. May 1, 2010 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review