Monte Antico 2013, Tuscany IGT, Italy: Made in a modern style with generous oak aging. Full-bodied Italian red wine that's a blend of 85% Sangiovese grapes with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. This is a collaboration with winemakers Neil Empson and Franco Bernabei. The vines are planted on Tuscan hillsides and then aged 1 year in oak barrels and another 6 months in bottle before being released from the winery. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2013-2018. 69377 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 86/100. September 5, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Varvaglione 12 e Mezzo Primitivo 2015, Del Salento, Puglia I.G.T., Italy: Liquid chocolate and sweet black plums on the nose and palate of this smooth, full-bodied Italian red wine made from the Primitivo grape (aka Zinfandel). Finishes with a lick of dark spice and licorice. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2017-2019. 395053 12.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. October 28, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Grand Vin De Glenelly 2010, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Chocolate and mocha from oak aging. Savoury and juicy. The woodsy, cedar brush, wild berry notes on the nose. Full-bodied with lots of layers and terrific complexity. Pair with rare steak. Drink: 2017-2020. 652289 14.50% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. May 15, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Pinyolet Grenache 2013, Montsant D.O., Spain: Full-bodied with black fruit and toasty oak. Well-priced for the taste and quality. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2017-2019. 271791 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. April 28, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Conundrum Red 2014, California, United States: Sweet layers of dark chocolate and sweet black and purple plums. Smooth and full-bodied. Pair with Mexican mole. Drink: 2016-2019. 294298 15.20% M 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. September 3, 2017
Best Beef Wine Full Review