La Posta Estela Armando Vineyard Bonarda 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Very balanced with lovely fleshy dark plums, smoke and a dry, chalky finish. Lots of layers of enjoyment here with a medium- to full-bodied weight. Drink: 2012-2015. 261586 13.90% XD 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 88/100. March 31, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Mount Langi Ghiran Billi Billi Shiraz 2007, Australia, Australia: Rich and luscious with terrific intensity. A core of black cherry runs through the heart of this dark wine. Ultra-satisfying and hedonistic. Drink: 2012-2016. 719575 14% XD 750 mL  $17.95 Score: 92/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Syrah 2008, BC VQA Okanagan Valley, Canada: Love it! Juicy and gripping with big fleshy black plums. Dark cherries dance across your mouth in a cascade of pleasure. Dark spices on the finish. Could use a few more years in the cellar. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2012-2018. 688229004087 15% D 750 mL  $35.00 Score: 92/100. April 22, 2011 Full Review

Lallier Grande Réserve Grand Cru Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Toasty, crisp and fresh with vibrant notes of white peach and green apple. Great structure and length. A sparkling expression of happiness. Drink: 2013-2017. 225284 12.50% D 750 mL  $48.95 Score: 93/100. April 27, 2013 Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Gorgeous Gift Wine Full Review

2008, A.C., Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France: Fantastic! Oh tripe yum. Savoury, juicy and meaty with seductive and slippery black cherries wrapped in cedar smoke. Layers and layers of pleasure. Drink: 2012-2017. 142802 15% XD 750 mL  $22.95 Score: 94/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Alain Jaume & Fils Terrases De Montmirail 2009, A.C., Gigondas, Rhône, France: Beautiful black cherry richness with savoury cedar and a gorgeously long finish. Full-bodied but not heavy despite its alcoholic strength. Love it! Drink: 2013-2022. 264234 15% D 750 mL  $27.95 Score: 94/100. March 31, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Fattoi Brunello Di Montalcino 2006, D.O.C.G., Italy: Black and brooding as Heathcliff on the moor (can’t think of the Italian equivalent just now, sorry). Plush, opulent layers of black plum, blackberry and smoke. Long and satisfying. 33498 14.50% XD 750 mL  $44.95 Score: 92/100. January 7, 2012 Full Review

Boeri Ribota Moscato D'asti 2010, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: A lovely light fizz with aromas of clementine and honeysuckle. Perfect as an aperitif or after-dinner sipper, as well as with spicy and hot dishes. Drink: 2010-2013. 184978 13% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 88/100. March 31, 2012 Best Value Sparkling 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

Stags' Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Superb, balanced, classic. Full-bodied with fleshy black fruit, smoke and espresso. Definitely a cellar keeper. Decant 2 hours. Great dinner party wine or gift wine. Drink: 2013-2018. 996405 13.90% XD 750 mL  $79.95 Score: 93/100. March 7, 2013 Gorgeous Gift Wine Full Review