El Esteco 1945 Old Vines Torrontés 2019, Calchaquí Valley, Argentina: A gorgeous Argentine white wine made from the country's iconic Torrontes grape. Notes of tropical fruit and lemon. Pair with poultry dishes. Drink: 2020-2022. 10695 14.10% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. November 3, 2020
Top Rated White Wine. Great Goat Cheese Wine Full ReviewTerrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2018, Mendoza, Argentina: This Malbec is deep, dark and gorgeous with rich blackberry, mulberry, ripe dark fruit and spicy flavours finishing long on the palate with food-friendly acidity Tannins are structured. Pair with grilled steaks. Drink: 2022-2025. 29280 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewKaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Mendoza, Argentina: A smooth and sensuous, medium-plus-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of plum, currant, blueberry, cedar and dark chocolate. Look for ripe dark berry, blueberry, mint, fine herbs, toasted nut and cedar spice flavours on the palate. Tannins are firm and pleasantly grippy. Drink or hold. Drink: 2020-2022. 135202 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. April 1, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBenMarco Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Los Árboles, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Benmarco 2019 is a classic Argentinean Cabernet Sauvignon from Los Árboles in the Uco Valley. Great value under $20. Dry, medium-bodied, fresh with bright dark plum, blackberry, cassis, savoury herb and dark spice flavours with great acidity for food on the palate. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Tannins are firm. Pair with grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2021-2025. 232637 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 17, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewMi Terruño Expresión Cabernet Franc 2016, Mendoza, Argentina: Mi Terruño Expresión 2016 Cabernet Franc is brambly on the nose, dry, medium-bodied, rich and vibrant on the palate with red currant, dried wild herbs, pepper spice and flinty flavours on the palate. Tannins are fresh, rich and smooth. Drink or hold. Pour with roast turkey. Drink: 2021-2025. 22007 13.80% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 9, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTonel 46 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Tonel 46 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-priced and enticing Cab with fine herb, dark berry and oak spice flavours on the palate. Expressive and nicely balanced. Tannins are velvety. The wine matured in oak barrels for one year and 50,000 bottles were produced. Enjoy with burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink: 2021-2022. 17445 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. August 6, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewEl Esteco Blend de Extremos Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Cafayate Valley, Argentina: El Esteco Extremos 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, medium-plus bodied Cab from the Cafayate Valley in Argentina. Fresh with black currant, bell pepper, pepper spice wrapped up with racy acidity. Pour with burgers and ribs for the grill. Drink: 2021-2024. 19237 14.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. November 12, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewViñalba Reserva Malbec Touriga Nacional 2019, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Viñalba Reserva 2019 is a full-bodied 80% Malbec and 20% Touriga Nacional red wine blend from the Mendoza wine region. Fresh and bright on the nose with red cherry, dark plum, earthy mushroom, dried herbs, dark chocolate, citrus zest and savoury spice flavours finishing fresh and long on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Drink: 2022-2025. 442459 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. January 21, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewKaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mendoza, Argentina: A smooth and sensuous, medium-plus-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of plum, currant, blueberry, cedar and dark chocolate. Look for ripe dark berry, blueberry, mint, fine herbs, toasted nut and cedar spice flavours on the palate. Tannins are firm and pleasantly grippy. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 135202 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. November 19, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewKaiken Ultra Malbec 2019, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Produced by Aurelio Montes, Kaiken Ultra 2019 Malbec is a smoky, earthy, dry, medium-plus-bodied Malbec made from orgranically-grown grapes. The well-known beauty is plushy and intense on the palate with ripe blueberry, earthy violets, dark chocolate, dark spices finishing long on a mineral note. Drink: 2022-2025. 50849 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 94/100. May 27, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewBenMarco Malbec 2019, Los Chacayes, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From Dominio del Plata, BenMarco 2019 Malbec is unfined and unfiltered and oh... so good. Produced by Susana Balbo from 100% Malbec from Los Chacayes, 1,200 metres above sea level. Meaning the wine is not only fresh but concentrated and lush on the palate with blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate, and savoury herb flavours. Aged in neutral oak barrels for 11 months. Tannins are fine-grained and firm and there is great acidity for food on this well-balanced, structured Malbec. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 657601 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. July 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewTerrazas de los Andes Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mendoza, Argentina: Terrazas de los Andes Reserva 2019 is produced from sustainably-grown Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the Perdriel in the Luján de Cuyo and Eugenio Bustos in the Uco Valley wine regions. This is an excellent value Cab under $20 with power and grace. Look for ripe blackberry, cassis, fine herbs and well-integrated toasty oak spice flavours on the palate. Tannins are firm and fine and there is great acidity for food on this wine. A portion of the wine was aged in previous-use barrels. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2026. 77776 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 13, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewD.V. Catena Historic 2019, Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina: D.V. Catena Historic 2019 is a fragrant, plushy and juicy medium-bodied blend of 75% Malbec, 19% Bonarda and 6% Petit Verdot. Look for ripe dark berry, pink florals, dried herbs and savoury spice flavours fresh on the palate. Produced by Cantena Zapata. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 555466 12.70% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 10, 2022
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewSusana Balbo Críos Malbec 2020, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From Dominio del Plata , Mendoza, Susana Balbo Críos 2020 Malbec features a label of three connected and overlapping hands, an image inspired by a Mayan artifact. The three hands represent Susana and her two children. "Crios" means offspring. Fragrant with spiced cherry, plum, smoky grilled herbs and flinty aromas mirrored on the palate with fresh acidity and a smooth, fruity finish. Tannins are velvety. So good now. Drink: 2022-2023. 538784 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 24, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full ReviewEscorihuela Gascón 1884 Estate Grown Malbec 2020, Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: From Agrelo, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza wine region, Escorihuela Gascón 1884 2020 Malbec is a dry, full-bodied Argentinean Malbec produced from hand-harvested grapes sourced from vineyards planted at the foot of the Andes mountains. This is a blend based on vineyards in Agrelo (80%) with the balanced from El Cepillo, Uco Valley. Since 1884, the wines of Bodegas Escorihuela have been perfecting their craft starting with the founder Dona Miguel Escorihuela who emigrated from Spain and settled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Look for blueberry, mulberry, red berry, clove spice and mocha flavours vibrant and long on the palate. Drink: 2022-2024. 375444 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. November 5, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTrapiche Medalla Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mendoza, Argentina: Trapiche Medalla 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust and juicy Old Vines Cabernet sourced from grapes in the Mendoza wine region in Argentina. Vines were planted in 1960. Dry, full-bodied and elegant with ripe black fruit aromas, with black currant, plum, dark cherry, savoury herbs, mint chocolate and earthy smoky spices concentrated on the palate. Tannins are velvety and rounded. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 568865 14% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. April 15, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewKaiken Selección Especial Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Mendoza, Argentina: Kaiken 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a vegan-friendly, medium-plus-bodied and rich red wine. Dry, concentrated and plushy on the palate, look for bright blueberry, dark fruit, cherry and spicy flavours with a creamy finish. Tannins are fine and powdery. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 143248 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 21, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTonel 46 Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mendoza, Argentina: Tonel 46 Reserve 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-priced and enticing Argentinean Cab at $18. Look for red berry, bright cherry, fresh herbs, chocolate, cracked pepper, anise and well-integrated toasty oak spice flavours on this full-bodied Cab vibrant on the palate with smooth tannins. The wine matured in oak barrels for one year. Enjoy with burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink: 2023-2028. 17445 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. March 18, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewAlta-Yarí Malbec 2020, Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Crafted by Hervé Joyaux Fabre, Alta-Yarí Reserva 2020 Malbec is great value at $19. Produced from grapes sourced from a selection of vineyards in the Gualtallary with altitudes up to 1450 metres above sea level. Fragrant with blue and pink florals, dry, medium-bodied and bright on the palate with red berry, dark berry fruit, savoury herbs balanced with brilliant acidity. Tannins are pleasantly grippy. Enjoy with a mixed grill. Drink: 2023-2028. 28086 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 94/100. March 18, 2023
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewLuigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Mendoza, Argentina: From Familia Arizu, Luigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon is an intense, full-bodied Argentinean red wine with grapes sourced from estate vineyards 800 to 1000 metres above sea level in the Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, Mendoza wine region. Smoky on the nose, vibrant and savoury on the palate with black currant, blackberry, black olive, minty and spicy flavours. Tannins are firm and if having tonight, decant the wine up to two hours prior to pouring it with meaty stews or grilled game sausages. The wine spent a total of 14 months in French and American oak barrels. Good now, better in 2024. Drink: 2023-2026. 128629 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWapisa Malbec 2020, Rio Negro, Patagonia, Argentina: Wapisa 2020 Malbec is from San Javier near Patagonia. Dry, medium-plus-bodied, plushy and concentrated on the palate with plum, blueberry, blackberry, savoury herb, dark spice and mocha flavours, vibrant, creamy and long on the finish. Tannins are structured and frame the wine beautifully. Produced by winemaker, Jean-Claude Berrouet of Château Pétrus fame. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2028. 631879 13.90% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. September 2, 2023
Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewViñalba Malbec 2021, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From Bodegas Fabre, Viñalba Reserva 2021 is an excellent value Uco Valley Malbec at $20. Deep, dark and inky in the glass the wine is fragrant with dark berry, blueberry, chocolate, spicy and savoury herb flavours on its full-bodied frame. Very elegant and approachable now with velvety tannins, but will also continue to develop in bottle for three-plus years. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2029. 555763 14.30% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 2, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewInfinito Malbec 2018, Mendoza, Argentina: Infinito 2018 Malbec is an excellent value Argentinean red from the Mendoza wine region at $17. Look for dark plum, cassis, ripe raspberry and flinty mineral flavours velvety on the palate. Enjoy with a skirt steak from the grill. Drink: 2023-2024. 10971 14.40% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 2, 2023
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewAlta Yarí Malbec 2020, Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From the Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Alta Yarí 2020 Gran Malbec is produced from grapes sourced from high altitude vineyards at 1,500 metres. This is a vibrant, fresh and mouth-watering Malbec with bright red berry fruit, pink and blue florals, earthy and savoury on the palate. Drink or cellar to 2033. Drink: 2023-2033. 32147 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. September 23, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewDesquiciado Cabernet Franc 2021, Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina: The Cabernet Franc and Malbec grapes for Desquiciado 2021 were sourced from Argentina's Tupungato wine region. Grapes were co-fermented giving the wine some beautiful ripe raspberry, blueberry, savoury herb and pepper spice flavours. Tannins are fine-grained. Lovely now though 2026. Amazing value at $16! Drink: 2023-2026. 32146 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. September 23, 2023
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewWapisa Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, San Javier, Río Negro, Patagonia, Argentina: From San Javier, Río Negro, Patagonia wine region, Wapisa 2020 is a dry, medium-plus-bodied, fresh and fragrant Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of black currant, blackberry, fir, nutty, sweet dried tobacco leaf and baking spice flavours smooth and velvety with a creamy dark chocolate finish on the palate. So good now and excellent value at $20. Drink: 2023-2028. 10970 14.60% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 7, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewNorton D.O.C. Malbec 2020, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Norton D.O.C. 2020 Malbec is excellent value at $17. Luján de Cuyo was the first Appellation of Origin for Argentine wines. The D.O.C. classification signifies that all the grapes for this wine came from Lujan de Cuyo, and have had an aging process of at least one year in oak barrels and one year of bottle aging prior to release. The grapes for the D.O.C. come from Bodega Norton’s Agrelo, Perdriel, and Lunlunta estate vineyards, all located within the boundaries of the Lujan de Cuyo wine growing region. Produced by wine maker, David Bonomi, this is a lush, concentrated and full-bodied Argentine Malbec with grapes sourced from 30-year-old vines. Look for ripe dark cherry, violets, black and blueberry fruits, lush, spicy and savoury on the palate. So good now! Drink: 2023-2025. 618348 14.10% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewRuca Malen Capítulo Dos Malbec 2021, Los Chacayes, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Ruca Malen Capítulo Dos 2021 Malbec is a dry, medium-plus-bodied and lush Malbec produced from organically grown grapes. Expect layers of ripe dark berry, dark chocolate and baking spice flavours, bright with food-friendly acidity and firm tannins. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 31974 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. October 21, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewLas Invernadas Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, San Juan D.O., Argentina: From the San Juan wine region in Argentina, Las Invernadas 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, medium-bodied and spicy Cab with black currant, black olive, bell pepper, nut and toasty oak spice flavours fresh on the palate with a lingering dark chocolate finish. Drink through 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 31976 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewEl Esteco Malbec 2021, Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina: From the Cafayate Valley, Salta El Esteco 2021 Malbec is a juicy, fruit-driven medium-bodied and plushy Malbec with ripe black plums, blackberry, blueberry, cedar brush, earthy and flinty flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are rich and creamy. Delicious now. Drink: 2023-2029. 113191 14.50% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 92/100. November 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewSalentein Portillo Pinot Noir 2021, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From the Uco Valley, Mendoza wine region, Salentein Portillo 2021 Pinot Noir is vegan-friendly and produced from sustainably grown grapes. Fresh from beginning to end, look for tart cherry, red currant, bramble leaf and sweet baking spices vibrant and supple on the palate. Tannins are polished. Drink or hold to 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 19274 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. November 18, 2023
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewCatena Appellation Agrelo Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Appellation Agrelo, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From Agrelo, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Catena 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, medium-bodied, spicy red, fragrant with fresh black currant, dried blueberry, herbs, cola, cloves, baking spice and flinty flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are firm. A beautifully expressive Cab, good now but better in 2024 when it will begin to show its best. Drink: 2024-2028. 484303 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 94/100. December 2, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewZuccardi Q Cabernet Franc 2021, Paraje Altamira, San Pablo, Mendoza, Argentina: The Cabernet Franc grapes for Zuccardi Q 2021 were sourced from Paraje Altamira and San Pablo in the Uco Valley wine region. At $22, the wine over delivers on the palate with wild herbs, dark cherry, raspberry, plum, well-integrated oak spice matched with vibrant acidity for food. Good now, better in 2024 and to drink to the end of the decade. Drink: 2024-2029. 15121 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. December 2, 2023
Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewLa Posta Armando Bonarda 2022, Mendoza, Argentina: La Posta Armando 2022 is an excellent value Bonarda at $15. Produced by Laura Cantena, the wine is dry, medium-bodied, vibrant and silky with ripe blackberry, plum, dried florals, toasty spice and smoky flavours with a lingering spicy finish. Produced from sustainably grown grapes sourced from a 50-year-old vineyard in the Guaymallén zone and about 750 metres above sea level. A portion of wine was aged in oak barrels for eight months prior to bottling. Drinking beautifully now. Drink: 2024-2026. 261586 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. May 11, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewFabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2021, Mendoza, Argentina: Fabre Montmayou Reserva 2021 Malbec is great value at $19. Produced from 40-year-old vines in Vistalba, Luján de Cuyo,, the wine is fragrant with roses and violets and is dry, medium-plus-bodied with ripe strawberry, red plum, violets, white pepper and well-integrated oak spice flavours velvety on the palate. A portion of the wine (60%) was aged in barrel for 12 months. Drink now through the end of the decade. Drink: 2023-2030. 261867 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. December 16, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewColosso Wines Indomable Blend de Malbec 2021, Mendoza, Argentina: From Colosso Wines, Indomable 2021 is produced from 100% Malbec grapes sourced from the Mendoza wine region. Dry and medium-bodied, the wine is perfumed with blue florals, cedar brush spice, tobacco leaf and vanilla aromas with dark berry, sweet cherry and spicy notes fresh and lifted on the palate. Enjoy it with meats from the grill. Drink: 2023-2028. 31972 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 94/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewSusana Balbo Signature Malbec 2021, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Susana Balbo Signature 2021 is a stylish Malbec with a splash of Petit Verdot added to the mix. Produced from grapes sourced from a high-elevation vineyard (1200 metres) in the Paraje Altamira, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and fragrant with violets, blueberry, anise spice and minerally notes zesty and fresh on the nose and palate. The wine was aged for 13 months in oak barrels (30% new). Tannins are firm. Good now, better in 2024 to the end of the decade. Drink: 2024-2030. 79798 14.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 95/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewNieto Senetiner Malbec 2021, Mendoza, Argentina: Nieto Senetiner 2021 Malbec is dry, rich and medium-bodied with ripe blueberry, dark plum, blue florals, silky and creamy on the palate with a mochanilla finish. A great value Malbec at $17 from the Mendoza. Drink or hold to 2027. Drink: 2024-2027. 32145 14.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 92/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewKoskil Patagonia Pinot Noir 2021, Patagonia, Argentina: From the Patagonia wine region in Argentina, Koskil 2021 Pinot Noir is a bright dry, medium-bodied PN with fresh red cherry, wild strawberry, red berry, subtle spicy and fine herb flavours silky smooth on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Drink or hold to 2029. An excellent value PN from Patagonia at $18! Drink: 2024-2029. 34816 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 93/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewTapiz Alta Collection Malbec 2020, San Pablo Vineyard, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From Fincas Patagónicas, Tapiz Alta Collection 2020 Malbec is produced from sustainably grown grapes and is dry, medium-plus-bodied and juicy with ripe blackberry, plum, baking spice, cocoa and minerally notes on the palate. A great value, velvety red from Argentina at $20. Drink: 2024-2028. 450155 14.20% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewPiattelli Luján de Cuyo Reserve Malbec 2021, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Piattelli Luján De Cuyo Reserve 2021 Malbec is produced from grapes sourced from Agrelo and Perdriel. The wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied, juicy and concentrated with dark plum, dark berry, smoky spices and meaty flavours vibrant on the palate. Still quite youthful, enjoy it now through 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 452029 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 27, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewFabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2022, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Drink: 2025-2031. 261867 14% D 750 mL $19.95. November 16, 2024
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewFabre Montmayou Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Perdriel, Mendoza, Argentina: From Perdriel, Mendoza, Fabre Montmayou Reserva 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is vegan-friendly and great value at $20. Fresh with dark berry, black currant, minty and brambly flavours on the palate, tannins are fresh and polished. Perdriel is a stony terroir near the Mendoza river and is known as one of the best places to grow the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Drink: 2024-2029. 261891 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. May 11, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewKaiken Ultra Malbec 2021, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Kaiken Ultra 2021 Malbec is vegan-friendly and is produced from organically-grown grapes sourced from high-altitude vineyards located in Uco Valley's Los Chacayes zone. Produced from 100% Malbec, look for ripe dark berry, sweet dried tobacco, dark spices and flinty mineral flavours concentrated on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained and dusty. From an excellent vintage, enjoy it now through 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 50849 14.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. June 8, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewSusana Balbo Signature Malbec 2022, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From the Uco Valley, Mendoza wine region, Susana Balbo Signature 2022 is an unfined and unfiltered 100% Malbec. Produced from grapes sourced from high-elevation vineyards, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and fragrant with ripe dark fruits, blueberry, sweet spice and chocolate flavours generous and fresh on the palate. The wine was aged in oak barrels (30% new) for 13 months. Drink: 2024-2030. 79798 14.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 95/100. June 8, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewDurigutti Cabernet Franc 2022, Mendoza, Argentina: Durigutti 2022 is a great value Cabernet Franc from the Mendoza wine region at $17. Dry and medium-plus-bodied, it is rich and fruity with dark plums, black raspberry, smoked meat and anise flavours on the palate framed by firm and structured tannins. Produced from 100% Cabernet Franc. Drink or hold. Drink: 2024-2028. 14916 13.80% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. July 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewViña Cobos Felino Malbec 2022, Mendoza, Argentina: Viña Cobos Felino 2022 Malbec is produced from hand-harvested grapes from mountain vineyards in the Uco Valley and Lujan de Cuyo districts of the Mendoza wine region which were planted at altitudes of 2,300 and 3,800 feet above sea level. Cool nights on the mountainside allow the grapes to keep their vibrancy. Dry, medium-bodied with bright blueberry, boysenberry and savoury aromas and flavours on the palate, this juicy red finishes on a flinty mineral note. An amazing value Malbec from the Mendoza wine region at $21, enjoy it now with bison burgers and grilled game sausages through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 118067 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. August 10, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewLuigi Bosca Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Mendoza, Argentina: Luigi Bosca 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a fragrant, full-bodied Argentinean Cab. Smoky on the nose with black currant, blackberry, dark cherry, plum and spicy flavours vibrant and savoury on the palate, the wine lingers on the finish on a spicy and fine herb note. Tannins are firm, so decant it for an hour or two prior to pouring it with game sausages from the grill or baked savoury meat pies. Drink: 2024-2028. 128629 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewZuccardi Serie A Malbec 2022, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Zuccardi Serie A 2022 Malbec is a dry, medium-plus-bodied red with grapes sourced from several vineyards in the Uco Valley, including San José, Los Árboles, Tupungato, El Peral, Gualtallary, Vista Flore and La Consulta. Fresh and fragrant with potpourri, blueberry, mulberry, dark cherry, wild herbs, pepper and toasty oak spice flavours, it is balanced with fresh acidity for food. Tannins are fine-grained and structured. A great value Malbec at $19 to enjoy through 2026. Drink: 2024-2026. 167619 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. October 18, 2024
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewTerrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2022, Mendoza, Argentina: This Malbec is gorgeous cool-climate red wine with aromas of ripe blackberry, mulberry, ripe dark fruit and spicy flavours finishing long on the palate with food-friendly acidity. Tannins are structured. Pair with grilled steaks. Drink: 2024-2026. 29280 14% Dry 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 18, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewAlamos Malbec 2020, La Consulta, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: From La Consulta, Uco Valley, Mendoza wine region, Alamos Seleccion 2020 Malbec is great value at $19. Fresh and fragrant with aromas of ripe red and dark berries, baking and dried sweet tobacco spice concentrated on the palate, this Argentinean Malbec is medium-bodied with very approachable velvety, fine-grained tannins. Drink or hold. Drink: 2024-2026. 322800 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. October 19, 2024
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewTrivento Malbec 2022, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Trivento Private Reserve 2022 is a great value Argentinean Malbec at $18. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and vegan-friendly, it is as enticing on the nose as it is on the palate with fresh violets, fine herb, fennel and brambleberry aromas and flavours with a subtle spicy and dark chocolate finish. Tannins are chalky-textured and elegant. Enjoy it with chops from the grill through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 38142 14.50% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 92/100. October 19, 2024
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSusana Balbo Críos Malbec 2022, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina: Drink: 2024-2025. 162529 14% XD 750 mL $17.95. November 6, 2024
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewFinca Sophenia Altosur Malbec 2023, Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Drink: 2024-2028. 13113 14.20% D 750 mL $17.95. November 6, 2024
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Cow's Corner Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2022, Gomersal, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: From Gomersal, Barossa, Sister's Run Cow's Corner 2022 is a fragrant and juicy red wine blend of mostly Grenache with Shiraz and Mourvèdre in support. Fragrant with exotic spices, ginger, plum, cherry, mulberry, toasty oak and pepper spice flavours generous and vibrant on the palate, the wine finishes long, smooth and harmonious. Great value at $19, enjoy it through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 346510 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. October 18, 2024
Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewElderton Barossa Shiraz 2021, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Drink: 2024-2033. 713024 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95. November 6, 2024
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewKnappstein Clare Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Drink: 2024-2031. 23905 14% XD 750 mL $19.95. November 6, 2024
Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewBrickfielder G.F. Angas Shiraz 2020, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Brickfielder G.F. Angas 2020 is a great value Barossa Valley Shiraz at $19. Fragrant and enticing with blackberry, pink florals, dark spices and vanilla flavours weighty and long on the palate, this Shiraz is velvety with fine-grained tannins. Drinking beautifully now through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 36283 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 21, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2021, Mclaren Vale, Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Epiphany 2021 is a great value Shiraz at $18. Crafted by Elena Brooks, founder & winemaker and Anthony John Parkinson, vign., this vintage is opulent with a hedonistic richness of ripe dark fruits, cocoa, cake spice and toasty oak spice flavours plushy and powerful on the palate. Hugely gratifying, enjoy it with a prime rib roast and all the trimmings. Grapes for the 2021 vintage were sourced from the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu wine regions in South Australia. Drink now through 2036. Drink: 2024-2036. 269464 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 93/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Blissful Blue Cheese Wine Full ReviewThomas Goss Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Thomas Goss 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great value McLaren Vale Cab at $17. A cool-climate Cab and very expressive on the nose with blueberry, black currant, violets and pink florals with black olive and toasty nutty flavours succulent on the palate. Farmed by fine-grained velvety tannins, it is so attractive and should be delicious through 2032. Drink: 2024-2032. 36238 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSevenhill Inigo Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: From Clare Valley, South Australia, Sevenhill Inigo 2020 is a dry, medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon-driven red wine blend with Ruby Cabernet (a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignan), Cabernet Franc and Shiraz in support (87%/8%/3%/2%). Ruby red in the glass and fragrant with red berry, blackberry, savoury herbs and subtle spicy notes, it is a fresh red wine blend with a juicy fruit finish. The wine spent 10 days on it skins and was matured in French oak cask (16% new). Enjoy it through 2035. Drink: 2024-2035. 36419 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. September 20, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewBec Hardy Koala Life Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: From Bec Hardy, Koala Life 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is vegan-friendly and also supports koala management and conservation through its wine sales. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from this wine are sourced for a Langhorne Creek vineyard planted in 1998 on its own roots. Deep dark ruby in the glass, the wine is fresh and fragrant with black currant, dark chocolate, minty and spicy notes framed by velvety tannins and a long finish. Drink or hold to 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 36281 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full Review3 Rings Shiraz 2021, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Barossa Valley, South Australia, 3 Rings 2021 Shiraz is a consistent crowd pleaser as is its price point at $18. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and lifted with fresh dark berry, violets, nutty and cocoa flavours weighty and silky on the palate, tannins are fine-grained and very approachable now. Enjoy it with a garlic and rosemary rubbed roast leg of lamb through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 15495 14.60% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 13, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewStonehaven Stepping Stone Shiraz 2020, Limestone Coast, South Australia, Australia: Stonehaven Stepping Stone 2020 Shiraz is a great value, vegan-friendly Shiraz with grapes sourced from the Limestone Coast, South Australia. Elegant and lithe, it is fragrant with pink florals, violets and juicy with ripe red berry fruit, blueberry, liquorice and chocolatey notes silky on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Drink: 2024-2028. 36387 14% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 92/100. April 27, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review3 Rings Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Barossa Valley, 3 Rings Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 is great value at $18. Fragrantly rich on the nose as it is on the palate with wild herbs, cassis, black currant, nutty and spicy notes, supple and so flavoursome. Enjoy it now with burgers and ribs from the grill through 2032. Drink: 2024-2031. 36237 14.70% XD 750 mL $17.90 Score: 91/100. April 27, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Gomersal, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: From Gomersal, Sister's Run Bethlehem Block 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is big, bold and a mouthful of cassis, dark berry fruit, dried herbs, minty, dark chocolate and spicy notes smooth and plushy on the palate. Tannins are structured, so enjoy this beautiful Barossa red with a juicy steak from the grill. Drink or hold. Drink: 2024-2031. 360636 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. January 20, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewKarl's Scepter Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: From the Coonawarra, South Australia, Karl's Scepter 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is fragrant with black currant, dark cherry, toasty oak spice and vanilla aromas and flavours generous and juicy on the palate. Lots of gorgeous dark fruit on this wine and excellent value as well at $18. Drink or hold to 2030. Drink: 2024-2029. 33732 14.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 93/100. January 20, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewAlkoomi Grazing Collection Shiraz 2021, Western Australia, Australia: Alkoomi Grazing Collection 2021 Shiraz is excellent value at $18. The 2021 vintage was co-fermented with Viognier and matured in French oak barrels (20% new). Fragrant with violets, black cherry, raspberry, dark plum and pepper spice flavours on the palate, the wine is dry, medium-bodied, lithe and elegant on the palate. Drink through 2033. Drink: 2024-2032. 33369 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 94/100. January 20, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewHugh Hamilton The Larrikin Cabernet Shiraz 2020, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Hugh Hamilton The Larrikin 2020 is a dry, full-bodied, smoky Cabernet and Shiraz red wine blend with earthy, smoked meat, sous bois, coffee and cocoa flavours with a spicy cracked black pepper finish on the palate. Grapes for this vintage were sourced from the Black Sheep Vineyard in McLaren Vale. Excellent value at $23 from this producer, this is a wine built to age and will continue to evolve in bottle. Drink through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 33559 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. April 1, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewFrankland Rocky Gully Cabernet 2019, Frankland River, Western Australia, Australia: Frankland Rocky Gully 2019 is a great value Frankland River Cab at $20. A rich and vibrant medium-bodied red wine blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot, 19% Malbec, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance in Petit Verdot, grapes for this vintage were sourced from the certified-organic Frankland Estate (in 2010) in Frankland River, and the coolest and most isolated wine-growing region in Western Australia. Fresh with bright red currant, plum, black olive, cedar brush spice, fine herbs, chocolate and vanilla flavours mouth-watering on the palate, it finishes on an earthy note with a touch of sweet tobacco. What can you ask for more at this price, except for more? Drink: 2024-2029. 33556 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 93/100. April 1, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSidewood Stablemate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Sidewood's Stablemate 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is fragrant with pink rose petals, blackberry, cassis, dried sweet tobacco leaf and toasted nut flavours elegant and plushy on the palate. Nicely balanced and finishes long with a mouthful of ripe black fruits. Enjoy it through 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 26926 14.60% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 13, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Reviewd'Arenberg The Stump Jump Red Blend 2020, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: From the McLaren Vale, South Australia, d'Arenberg The Stump Jump 2020 has always been a customer favourite with its dark cherry, ripe raspberry, plum, nutty, earthy and savoury herb flavours. Dry and medium-plus-bodied, this vintage is a juicy red wine blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre and excellent value at $17. The wine label tells a story of Richard Bowyer Smith, who was a South Australian blacksmith and inventor of the stump-jump plough (able to plough tree roots) who also had poor eyesight, and the reason for the optometrist chart on the label. Drink: 2024-2029. 33558 14.40% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. April 13, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewFarmer's Leap Random Shot Shiraz 2020, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Farmer's Leap Random Shot 2020 Shiraz is dry, medium-plus-bodied, bright and generous with dark berry, fine herb flavours with spicy and chocolate notes fresh on the palate. Drink or hold to 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 33368 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 95/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewHollick The Bard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: From the Coonawarra, South Australia, Hollick, The Bard 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Coonawarra Cab and amazing value at $15. Dry, medium-plus-bodied, this Cab is rich and generous with dark cherry, cassis, plum, minty, cedar brush spice and herbal flavours spicy and zesty on the palate. Hollick, The Bard honours Australia's famous lyric poet, John Shaw Neilson, who was raised in the cottage on Hollick's Neilson's Block vineyard. Drink: 2024-2030. 18525 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewWakefield Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Limestone Coast, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Limestone Coast, Clare Valley, Wakefield Estate 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is great value at $20. This Cab is lush, full-bodied, concentrated and juicy with crushed black raspberry, fresh red cherry, tomato leaf, fine herbs, nutty and mocha flavours balanced with fresh acidity for food. Tannins are silky. Drinking beautifully now. Drink: 2024-2032. 744235 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewBleasdale Broad-Side Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2019, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: At $19, Bleasdale Broad-Side 2019 is a great value dry, medium-plus-bodied 49% Shiraz, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Malbec red wine blend. Produced from grapes sourced from the Langhorne Creek wine region, the wine is totally expressive of its terroir with ripe dark plum, cherry, cedar brush spice and dark chocolate flavours and nicely balanced with food-friendly acidity and a silky-smooth finish. Drink to 2028. Drink: 2023-2028. 632091 14.20% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. December 16, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewPenny's Hill The Specialized Shiraz Cabernet Merlot 2019, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Penny's Hill The Specialized 2019 is a vegan-friendly, fresh and juicy medium-plus-bodied red blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Elegant and powerful, the wine is fragrant with pink florals and is full-bodied with a mouthful of black currant, dark cherry, wild herbs, cedar brush spice, textured and velvety with fine-grained tannins. Drink or hold to 2035. Drink: 2023-2035. 15976 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 95/100. December 2, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewKnappstein Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Knappstein 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is excellent value at $20. Dry, full-bodied and fragrant with blackcurrant, dark cherry, green olive, nutty and savoury with a long and supple finish and framed with fine-grained, velvety tannins. Elegant and very nice now, drink through the end of the decade. Drink: 2023-2030. 23905 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 2, 2023
Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewLeeuwin Prelude Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Leeuwin Prelude Vineyards 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon has a splash of Malbec added to the mix and is fragrant with cassis, red berry, licorice, clove, wild herbs, umami and flinty flavours with a briny mineral finish on the palate. So complex but so easy to enjoy. This vintage was produced from grapes sourced from the Margaret River, Western Australia wine region. Drink through 2035. Drink: 2023-2035. 986133 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 96/100. April 1, 2024
Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Old Testament Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Old Testament 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a consistent crowd pleaser and excellent value as well at $19. The Coonawarra is known for its red iron-oxide terra Rossa soils, one of the most distinct terroirs and The Old Testament vineyard is located in the heart of that wine region. Intense with aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, spicy notes rich and elegant with balanced acidity on the palate. Tannins are easy and this Coonawarra red is ready for ribs and burgers from the grill. Drink to 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 478271 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. October 19, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWynns The Siding Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: From the Coonawarra wine region, Wynns Coonawarra Estate The Siding 2021 is a rich, dark ruby red in the glass with ripe plum, blackberry, cedar brush spice and menthol flavours, rich, full-bodied and smoky on the palate. Tannins are structured and fine-grained. Good now, better in 2024. Drink to 2030. A great showing of terroir on this Coonawarra Cab. Drink: 2023-2031. 333229 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. November 18, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewFrankland Rocky Gully Shiraz 2019, Frankland River, Western Australia, Australia: The grapes for Rocky Gully 2019 Shiraz were sourced from the Frankland River wine region in Western Australia. Great value at $20, look for ripe dark fruits, dark chocolate, earthy and spicy flavours on this dry, medium-plus-bodied and plushy red. Pour with a well-marbled steak from the grill. Drink: 2023-2025. 33371 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewMonterra Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Monterra 2021 is a vegan-friendly Cabernet Sauvignon produced from grapes sourced from the McLaren Vale wine region in South Australia. From a near perfect vintage that included warm days, cool nights and dry conditions up to and at harvest, this is a beautifully fresh wine fragrant with earthy florals, dark berry, plum, vanilla and toasty oak spice flavours generous on the palate. Enjoy it now and through the end of the decade. Drink: 2023-2031. 12835 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. October 21, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewThe Lane Shiraz 2020, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: The Lane 2020 Shiraz is a dry, full-bodied and fruit-driven Shiraz concentrated with ripe black plum, clove, toasty oak and cracked black pepper spice silky-smooth and lingering on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained and very approachable now. Excellent value at $20. Drink or cellar to 2033. Drink: 2023-2033. 462515 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. September 2, 2023
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Cow's Corner Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2021, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Cow's Corner 2021 is always a crowd pleaser red wine blend of primarily Grenache with Shiraz and Mourvèdre in support. Fragrant with exotic spices, ginger, plum, cherry, mulberry and mocha flavours vibrant and plushy on the palate, the wine finishes with spiced plum notes and chalky, pleasantly grippy tannins. Starting to show its best now and great value at $20. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2028. 346510 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 7, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewSons of Eden Kennedy Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2020, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Barossa Valley wine region, Sons of Eden Kennedy 2020 is a savoury, dry and medium-plus-bodied 45% Grenache, 30% Shiraz and 25% Mourvèdre red blend with grapes sourced from vines 20-plus to 90-plus years of age. The wine was so named as a tribute to the legendary Barossa Vignerons who pioneered the planting of the vineyards that exist there to this day. This GSM is plushy on the palate with ripe red berry, dark berry, plum, pepper spice and savoury herb flavours with a long and satisfying finish. Drink: 2023-2029. 558692 14.90% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. October 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewWakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Clare Valley, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield Jaraman 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is dry, full-bodied and enticing with aromas of fresh red cherry, black currant, dark chocolate, well-integrated oak spice and minty flavours juicy and intense on the palate. Beautifully made and balanced, tannins are fine, silky and the wine is very approachable now. Drink through the end of the decade. Drink: 2023-2033. 142398 14.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. October 7, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTurkey Flat Butchers Block 2019, Tanunda, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From Tanunda, Barossa Valley wine region, Turkey Flat Butchers Block 2019 is a dry, medium-plus-bodied and fragrant red wine blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mataro with ripe red cherry, dark plum, blackberry and minty mouth-filling flavours juicy on the palate. Tannins are smooth. The Shiraz, Grenache and Mataro grapes for this vintage were sourced from some of the original 150-year old vines on the Bethany estate vineyards. A great value Barossa Valley red at $22 to drink now through 2024. Drink: 2023-2024. 90241 14.80% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. September 2, 2023
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBest's Bin No. 1 Great Western Shiraz 2020, Victoria, Australia: Best's Bin No. 1 Great Western 2020 Shiraz is great value at $22. Dry, full-bodied, spicy and juicy with ripe dark berry, cherry, chocolate and cracked black pepper flavours deep and rich on the palate. Tannins are structured. A perfect wine for the Barbie, or an excellent cellaring candidate to 2032. Drink: 2023-2033. 222323 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. June 24, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewBarossa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Barossa Valley, Barossa Valley Estate 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is dry, medium-plus-bodied, fresh and elegant with dark plum, blackberry, cassis, cold black tea, mocha and garden herb aromas and flavours on the palate. A great value Cab from the Barossa at $22. Easy to love! Drink: 2023-2026. 493551 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. June 24, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Baron Von Nemesis Shiraz 2019, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Zonte's Footstep Baron Von Nemesis 2019 Shiraz is a vegan-friendly Barossa Valley 100% Shiraz, rich and smooth with a mouthful of dark berry, cherry, blueberry, savoury herb, dark spice and well-integrated oak spice flavours opulent, vibrant and long on the finish. Tannins are velvety. This single site wine is produced by Baron Von Nemesis in the heart of the Barossa Valley. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2032. 212936 14.50% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 93/100. March 4, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewAylesbury Waterfall Gully Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Ferguson Valley, Western Australia, Australia: From Ferguson Valley, Western Australia, Aylesbury Waterfall Gully 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, full-bodied, elegant and beautifully crafted Cab with fresh black currant, dark cherry, mint, chocolate, toasty nut and oak spice flavours on the palate. Tannins are polished. Drinking beautifully now. Drink: 2023-2026. 27363 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 1, 2023
Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewPenley Phoenix Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Penley Phoenix 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, elegant, medium-bodied and earthy Coonawarra Cab with dark plum, liquid cherry, cocoa, baking and cedar brush spice flavours vibrant on the palate. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2028. 639575 14.80% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. April 1, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewHeartland Stickleback 2021, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Produced by winemaker, Ben Glaetzer, Heartland Stickleback 2021 is a bright, entry level red blend of Cabernet, Shiraz and a touch of Dolcetto sourced from the Langhorne Creek wine region in South Australia. Excellent value at $20, look for ripe dark fruits, blueberry, plum, cracked pepper and oak spice flavours, savoury, smoky and juicy on the palate. One for the BBQ. Drink: 2023-2029. 116574 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 29, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewFarmer's Leap Shiraz 2017, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Farmer's Leap 2017 Shiraz is a mouthful of dark cherry, berry, plum, cedar brush spice and cocoa flavours fresh and velvety on the palate. Excellent value on this juicy, medium-plus-bodied Padthaway, South Australia Shiraz at $19. Tannins are velvety. Drinking beautifully now. Drink: 2023-2027. 30521 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. April 29, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewHollick The Bard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Hollick The Bard 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Coonawarra Cab and great value at $17. Dry, medium-plus-bodied with ripe dark berry fruit, plum, cherry, vanilla and bramble leaf flavours zesty and spicy on the palate. Tannins are firm. Drink or hold. Pour with grilled game meats or a roast duck or goose. Drink: 2022-2028. 18525 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. December 17, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2019, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Excellent value on Sister's Run Epiphany (2019) under $18. Produced by Elena Brooks, founder & winemaker; Anthony John Parkinson, vign., this juicy Shiraz is fragrant with ripe blackberry, plum, chocolate and dried herbs savoury, concentrated and finishing long on the palate. A popular and easy-to-love Shiraz made for the BBQ. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2030. 269464 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. January 7, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Bethlehem Block 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from a single block in the vineyard. Big, bold and full-bodied, rich with ripe blackberry, dark berry and plum compote, earthy with cedar and toasty oak spice flavours fresh and long with a minty chocolate finish. Tannins are rich and fine. So good now. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2027. 360636 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 21, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWakefield Winery Pinot Noir 2021, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield 2021 Pinot Noir is dry, medium-bodied and excellent value at $20. Produced from several sites throughout the Adelaide including Gumeracha, Birdwood, Woodside, Oakbank and Balhannah and matured for nine months in oak barrels, look for bright cherry, red berry, menthol, cedar and toasty oak spice flavours vibrant on the palate. Lightly chill and pour with a mixed grill. Drink: 2023-2026. 197392 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 6, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewVasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Vasse Felix Filius 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon has a splash of Malbec added to the mix. Dry, medium-bodied and vibrant with ripe dark berry, dark cherry, savoury spice, vanilla and smoky flavours harmonious on the palate. Tannins are fine and structured. Drink or hold. Produced by winemaker, Virginia Willcock. Drink: 2022-2025. 559872 14% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 93/100. November 5, 2022
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewBleasdale Mulberry Tree Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: From Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Bleasdale Mulberry Tree 2019 is a great value Cab for $20. Grapes were fermented on their skins in open top fermenters for 12 days, then macerated for 12 months in new (10%) and neutral French oak barrels. This is a dry, full-bodied Cab savoury with ripe blackberry, mulberry, olive and baking spice flavours generous on the palate. Tannins are fine. Drink or hold in cellar to 2030. Frank Potts is the founder of the winery which was established in 1850 and the winery is named for the Mulberry tree growing in the middle of the vineyard. Drink: 2022-2030. 661892 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. November 19, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewKilikanoon Killerman's Run Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Kilikanoon Killerman's Run 2019 is a lip-smacking and great value Cabernet Sauvignon from the Clare Valley, South Australia. Excellent value at $20 and crafted by one of the most respected producers of red wine in Australia, this cab is dry, medium-bodied with layers of red berry, blueberry, Rosa plum, cassis and cedar brush spice flavours. Very approachable now with smooth, silky tannins. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2026. 675223 14% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. November 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewPeter Lehmann The Barossan Shiraz 2020, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: From the Barossa wine region, Peter Lehmann The Barossan 2020 is a great value Shiraz at $22. Full-bodied and plushy with lots to love; a classic with ripe blackberry, plum, cherry, black pepper and toasty oak spice flavours big and bold with a deliciously long mocha finish. Pour with a prime rib roast. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2029. 522235 14.90% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. October 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Cow's Corner Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2019, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Cow's Corner 2019 is a great value Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre red wine blend at $20. From the Barossa Valley wine region, this crowd pleaser is intense and full-bodied with ripe dark plums, dark berry, mocha, wild herb, cracked pepper and toasty oak spice flavours silky on the palate. Drink: 2022-2025. 346510 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 24, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSidewood Shiraz 2019, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: From Adelaide Hills, Sidewood 2019 Shiraz is fragrant and rich with dark cherry, dark berry, pepper spice and fine herb flavours, fresh and zesty with a satisfying bitter orange bite on the finish. The Shiraz grapes for this vintage were sourced from three estate vineyards and the wine was matured in French oak barrels (25% new) for 18 months. Excellent value at $20, enjoy it with steaks from the grill. Drink: 2022-2027. 446146 14% XD 750 mL $21.60 Score: 93/100. May 27, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewJip Jip Rocks Shiraz Cabernet 2020, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: From Padthaway, South Australia, Jip Jip Rocks 2020 Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon blend (60%/40%) is excellent value under $20. Fragrant with ripe blackberry, black currant, baking spice and savoury herb flavours supple and lingering on the palate. The Jip Jip rocks are an outcrop of 350 million year old red granite near the family's vineyard in the heart of the Padthway region near Morambro Creek. Drink: 2023-2028. 186114 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. March 4, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewHaselgrove First Cut Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Haselgrove First Cut 2019 is a solid Cabernet Sauvignon, dry, medium-plus-bodied and vibrant with blackcurrant, black olive, wild herb and cedar brush spice flavours vibrant on the palate. Tannins are chewy. Pour with burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2027. 18008 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. October 8, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewHeartland Stickleback Red 2019, Australia: Produced by winemaker, Ben Glaetzer, Heartland Stickleback 2019 is a great value Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Dolcetto spicy and medium-bodied red wine blend with dark berry, plum compote, black cherry, olive, mint, vanilla and Christmas cake spice flavours wrapped up in a whiff of smoke. Pour with barbequed meats. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2028. 116574 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 13, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz 2018, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Zonte's Footstep Lake Doctor 2018 is a vegan-friendly Shiraz and great value under $20. Dry, full-bodied, rounded and supple on the palate with black plum, earthy violets, chocolate and anise flavours. Lovely now, Pour with a rib roast. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2027. 72975 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. July 16, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewDandelion Vineyards Lioness of Mclaren Vale Shiraz 2019, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Dandelion Vineyards, Lioness Of Mclaren Vale 2019 Shiraz is amazing value at $22. A dry, rich, vibrant and sumptuous Shiraz, sensuous with blue florals, dark berry, dark spice, cocoa, vanilla flavours generous on the palate. So approachable and delicous now but can easily cellar for 10-plus years. Drink: 2022-2032. 357475 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. July 15, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewMountadam Five-Fifty Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Mountadam Vineyards Five-Fifty 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great value Barossa Cab under $20. Look for black currant, wild herbs, cedar brush spice and a hint of vanilla on this full-bodied and flavoursome red with a smooth, long finish. Pour with meats from the grill. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2028. 18006 15% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. July 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewAngove Crest Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: From the McLaren Vale, Angove Crest 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is silky smooth with ripe blackberry, earthy florals, fine herbs with a kiss of spice on the palate. The winery and vineyard is Australian Certified Organic (ACO) Standard. Drink: 2022-2025. 20886 13.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Reviewd'Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: d'Arenberg, The High Trellis 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is fantastic value at $20. A solid Cab Sauv., produced from grapes sourced from the cool-climate McLaren Vale wine region in South Aus. Fragrant with smoky spices and ripe dark plum aromas, dry, fresh and full-bodied with blackberry, cassis, ripe plum, sagey wild herbs, black olive, vanilla and smoky spices. Tannins are structured and velvety. Pour with beef brisket. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2024. 943456 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Canto Sangiovese Lagrein 2019, Fleurieu, South Australia, Australia: From Fleurieu, South Australia, Zonte's Footstep Canto 2019 is a vegan-friendly and unique blend of 87% Sangiovese and 13% Lagrein wine grapes. Dry, medium-bodied with dark plum, cherry, chocolate and savoury herb flavours harmonious and juicy on the palate. Tannins are structured and mouth-coating and there is plenty of food-friendly acidity to accompany juicy ribs from the grill. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2027. 289967 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Super Trooper 2018, Fleurieu, South Australia, Australia: Zonte's Footstep Super Trooper 2018 is a vegan-friendly, fresh and zesty, full-bodied red wine blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the Fleurieu wine region in South Australia. Ripe, delicious and mouth-filling with pink florals, dark berry, nutty and spicy flavours and a satisfyingly long finish. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2027. 23782 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 29, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full ReviewHollick Wines Wrattonbully Shiraz 2019, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Hollick Wrattonbully 2019 Shiraz is a rich, full-bodied and supple Coonawarra Shiraz with bramble berry, blackberry, sous bois, baking and pepper spice flavours vibrant and long with a dark chocolate finish. Tannins are velvety. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2027. 165944 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 29, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBarossa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Valley Estate 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is an elegant Cab with blue florals, blueberry, blackberry, dried sweet tobacco leaf, wild herbs, olive, minty and dark spice flavours lush, long and vibrant on the palate. Great value at $20. Drink: 2021-2024. 858795 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. July 16, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Old Testament Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Sister's Run Old Testament 2019 is a great value Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon under $20. Coonawarra is known for its red iron-oxide terra Rossa soils, one of the most distinct terroirs . The Old Testament vineyard is located in the heart of that wine region and the 2019 vintage is rich, lush and smoky, with ripe blackberry, dark plum, savoury herbs, mocha, spicy and mouth-filling with a long finish. The 2019 vintage was awarded Gold at the 2020 San Francisco International Wine Competition. Drink: 2024-2030. 478271 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. December 17, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Blackberry Patch Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia, Australia: Zonte's Footstep Blackberry Patch 2019 is a toasty, rich and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon, dry, full-bodied with ripe blackberry, cassis, cedar brush, anise and dark chocolate flavours that are absolutely mouth-filling, finishing long and savoury. Amazing value under $20. Pour with gourmet burgers from the grill. Drink: 2021-2030. 353193 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. August 13, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWakefield Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is amazing value under $20. Love the ripe, dark spiced plum, savoury herbs and dark chocolate aromas on this Cab. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and well-balanced with vibrant acidity, there are layers of ripe dark fruits, blackberry, plum, mint, dark chocolate and fine dried herbs mouth-filling, supple and long on the palate. Drink: 2021-2024. 744235 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 20, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Reviewd'Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: From d'Arenberg, The High Trellis 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is great value under $20. Fragrant with earthy florals, fresh herbs, dark cherry and blueberry aromas, this dry, medium-bodied, vibrant Cab is supple on the palate with spiced black plum, blueberry, violets, fresh herbs, cedar spice and smoky vanilla flavours. Grapes are sourced from the cool-climate McLaren Vale wine region. Drink: 2021-2026. 943456 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. August 20, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Shades Of Gris Pinot Grigio 2019, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: From Zontes Footstep Shades Of Gris 2019 Pinot Grigio. Clever name *(*. Love this bright, dry and medium-bodied PG with ripe apple, pear, peach, nectarine, lemon-lime zest and spicy pepper flavours silky and mouth filling. Chill and enjoy with pan-fried trout. Drink: 2021-2022. 17645 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. June 12, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewJip Jip Rocks Shiraz Cabernet 2019, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: From Padthaway, South Australia, Jip Jip Rocks 2019 is a full-bodied, smooth and vibrant 60% Shiraz, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon fragrant with ripe, juicy blackberry, cherry, nutty, vanilla and cracked pepper spice flavours supple and plushy on the palate. Excellent value under $17. The Jip Jip rocks are an outcrop of 350 million year old red granite near the family's vineyard in the heart of the Padthway region near Morambro Creek. Pour with prime rib. Drink: 2022-2027. 186114 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 93/100. April 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewThe Black Chook Shiraz Viognier 2019, South Australia, Australia: Love this full-bodied Shiraz and Viognier red wine blend. The Black Chook 2019 is floral on the nose with dark cherry, earthy, savoury herb, pepper and toasty oak spice flavours generous on the palate. Great food-friendly acidity to pair with BBQ beef ribs. Drink: 2023-2024. 66738 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. January 7, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewLangmeil Winery Blacksmith Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied and richly textured, this is a terrific value Barossa Cabernet with fleshy, ripe dark fruit, mint, vanilla, cedar and baking spice flavours concentrated on the palate with a long and vibrant finish. Perfect for a steak dinner. Drink: 2020-2024. 644039 14.50% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. November 5, 2020
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Produced by Winemaker Elena Brooks, a single-block Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon. Ripe with dark fruit, blackberry, black currant, savoury herb flavours with bright acidity food. Pair with grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2020-2025. 360636 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 30, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewLayers Shiraz Tempranillo Mourvèdre Grenache 2017, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A rich and balanced Shiraz, Tempranillo, Mourvèdre and Grenache blend with blackberry, plum, black cherry, cinnamon spice and mocha plushy and silky on the palate. Produced by Peter Lehmann, the first Australian wine industry figure to be appointed to the Order of Australia. Pair with wine-braised beef short-rib and thyme-infused escargot en croute. Drink: 2020-2024. 138883 14.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. November 3, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewWits End Luna Shiraz 2018, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A mouth-watering Shiraz with a dollop of Barbera grapes added into the blend and has always been a crowd-pleaser with its dark cherry, spiced plum, smoky, meaty and vanilla flavours supple and smooth on the palate. Drink: 2020-2025. 311258 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. June 5, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWakefield Winery Shiraz 2018, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: A generous, full-bodied, smooth and savoury Australian Shiraz from the cool climate of the Clare Valley. Aromas of ripe fleshy black plums. Terrific value. Absolutely delicious. Pair with grilled steak and hamburgers. Drink: 2020-2023. 943787 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 16, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewWakefield Wines Promised Land Shiraz 2016, South Australia, Australia: A solid, full-bodied Australian Shiraz with aromas of fleshy black plum and blackberries wrapped in toasty oak. Smooth texture. Great price. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018-2021. 441543 13.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 12, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full ReviewRosemount Estate Shiraz 2017, South Eastern Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, well-priced Australian Shiraz. Aromas of toasty oak, smoke and blackberries. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2018-2020. 302349 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. August 15, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2018, Epiphany Vineyard, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: a well-priced juicy Shiraz with ripe blackberry, red berry jam, plum, cocoa, savoury herbs and toasted nut flavours on the palate, generous and soft with ripe tannins. Easy-to-enjoy with burgers and ribs. Drink: 2021-2025. 269464 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. December 18, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWits End Luna Shiraz 2016, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: This full-bodied Australian Shiraz is made from grapes grown in the cool McLaren Vale, and made more interesting with a splash of Barbera grapes in the blend. Attractive aromas of blackberry and black current on the nose and palate of this dry, full-bodied wine. Savoury and meaty, yet also juicy. This wine packs a flavour punch. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2018-2023. 311258 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. October 3, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTrius Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Niagara Peninsula, V.Q.A., Canada: I hedged on this wine between 89 and 90 points... definitely 90 if you set the winning conditions: decant 1-2 hours and pair with a juicy steak and great conversation. Aromas of dark fruit and smoke. Drink: 2020-2023. 587956 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. June 11, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewVineland Estates Winery Elevation Cabernet 2020, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: From the Niagara Escarpment wine region, Vineland Estates Elevation 2020 is a fruity, juicy red wine blend of mostly Cabernet Franc with about 30% in Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from the winery's Bo-Teek Vineyard. Elevation 2020 is fresh and fruity on the nose with bright red cherry, ripe raspberry, blueberry, rose petal and savoury herbs with a touch of spice and mineral notes on the palate. Beginning to show its best now, drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2028. 173609 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewBenjamin Bridge Pink Piquette Rosé 2022, Nova Scotia, Canada: Alcohol-free with lovely notes of pink and white grapefruit. Vibrant and mouth-watering. Perfect for a summer day. Chill and enjoy dockside. Vegan, gluten free and certified organic. Only 50 calories per 250ml can serving. Pink Piquette Zero food pairings: grilled fish, herbed pork roast, fingerling potatoes. Drink: 2024-2025. 38282 5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. October 11, 2024
Top Rated Rosé Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full ReviewMaquis Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Valle de Colchagua, Chile: Maquis Gran Reserva 2020 is an excellent value Cabernet Sauvignon-driven red (with 8% in Cabernet Franc and 2% in Petit Verdot) from this Colchagua Valley winery. Dry, full-bodied with ripe dark fruits, crushed raspberry and well-integrated toasty oak spice, it finishes long with good concentration of dark fruits and espresso coffee flavours. Balanced with fresh acidity and framed by medium, velcroish tannins, enjoy it with meats from the grill through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 13064 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 13, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewSanta Carolina El Pacto Agreement No. 1 Limited Production Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Cachapoal Valley, Chile: Santa Carolina El Pacto Agreement No. 1 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great value Chilean Cab at $20. Produced from sustainably grown grapes, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied with oodles of red berry, sweet dried tobacco leaf, spicy and savoury flavours lingering on the palate and finishing on a black olive note. Tannins are firm. Drink or hold to 2026. Drink: 2024-2026. 35673 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. February 3, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewMontes Limited Selection Carmenère 2022, Rapel Valley D.O., Chile: Montes 2022 is a great value Rapel Valley Carmenère at $18. A juicy and plushy, medium-plus-bodied Carmenère with fresh ripe cherry, strawberry, red currant, blackberry, vanilla and toasty oak spice flavours fresh on the palate, it is a perfect pairing to southwest veggie burgers or a roast duck and lentil ragu. Drink: 2024-2028. 256685 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewArboleda Carmenère 2021, Aconcagua Valley, Aconcagua Costa D.O., Chile: Arboleda 2021 Carmenère is produced from organically-grown grapes sourced from Chile's Aconcagua Valley. The wine is dry and medium-bodied with bright and dark cherry, grilled wild herbs, black olive and roasted bell pepper flavours fresh on the palate. Enjoy it through 2028 with sausages and burgers from the grill. Drink: 2024-2027. 46284 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. June 8, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewCalcu Tiny Blocks Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Chile, Chile: Calcu Tiny Blocks Gran Reserva 2020 is produced from sustainably grown Cabernet Franc grapes sourced from the granitic soils of Marchigüe, Colchagua Valley in Chile. An excellent value Cab Franc at $15, enticing with its juicy crushed raspberry, fine herbs, sweet dried tobacco leaf and flinty notes elegant on the palate. Tannins are firm, so enjoy it with roast duck or leg of lamb. Drink: 2024-2030. 37867 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. October 18, 2024
Full ReviewMiguel Torres Andica Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Itata Valley, Chile: From the Itata Valley, Miguel Torres Andica Gran Reserva 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is an amazing value Chilean Cab at $18. Produced from organically grown grapes, it is dry, medium-plus-bodied and fruity fresh with dark cherry, blueberry, plum, spicy cumin and black pepper flavours silky on the palate. The wine was aged both in stainless steel tanks and mature oak barrels giving it a lovely balance of fruit freshness as well as a rounded mouthfeel. Drink: 2024-2028. 25933 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. September 21, 2024
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Las Piedras, Maipo Valley, Chile: San Pedro 1865 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is great value at $20. Grapes were sourced from the sandy and gravel-mix soils of select vineyards from the terraces of the Maipo Valley. Las Piedras (the stones) is dry, medium-bodied and delicious with crushed raspberry, plum, blueberry, black currant and fine herbs fresh on the palate and framed by rich and structured tannins. Enjoy it now through 2030 with meats form the grill. Drink: 2024-2028. 37911 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 21, 2024
Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewViu Manent Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Viu Manent Gran Reserva 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from sustainably grown grapes (with 4% in Cabernet Franc grapes) and is vegan-friendly. Produced from a cooler vintage, it is elegant, fresh and ripe with blackberry, blueberry, savoury herb and toasty oak spice flavours. Grapes were sourced from Old Vines Cabernet planted nearly a century ago in San Carlos de Cunaco. Amazing value at $18, enjoy it with ribs from the grill. Drink: 2024-2029. 569673 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewCaliterra Tributo Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Casablanca Valley, Chile: From Casablanca Valley, Caliterra Tributo is a perfumed Sauvignon Blanc, rich with tropical fruit aromas, with bright apple, pear and fine herb flavours creamy, mouth filling and zesty on the palate. A refreshing wine to chill and enjoy with grilled seafood dishes. Most of the wine (90%) saw elevage in stainless-steel tanks with the balance in neutral oak barrels. Chill and enjoy through 2025. Drink: 2024-2026. 37750 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. September 20, 2024
Splendid Salad Wine Full ReviewMontes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2022, Colchagua Valley D.O., Chile: From the Colchagua Valley, Montes Limited Edition 2022 is a fragrant and richly layered medium-plus-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère red wine blend with ripe plum, baked cherries, mocha, blue florals and mint generous on the palate and framed by fine-grained tannins. Mouth filling and fresh with beautifully balanced acidity for food, enjoy it through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 292169 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewPerez Cruz Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Maipo Valley, Chile: A superb Chilean Cabernet at an incredibly great price. Aromas of ripe blackberry, dark plum and a whisper of smoke. Full-bodied, smooth and supple with a long, satisfying finish. Perfect for hearty meat dishes and hard cheeses. Drink: 2024-2026. 694208 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 93/100. September 20, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewVentisquero Queulat Single Vineyard Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Trinidad Vineyard, Maipo Valley, Chile: Drink: 2024-2029. 37866 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95. November 6, 2024
Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewSanta Ema 60/40 Barrel Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2021, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: Santa Ema 60/40 Barrel Reserve 2021 is a 60/40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère with grapes sourced from the Maipo Valley wine region. Produced from sustainably grown grapes, look for ripe red berry, tomato leaf, savoury herbs with a kiss of spice creamy on the palate. An excellent value, vibrant and juicy new addition to the Santa Ema portfolio. Drink through 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 34606 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewMontes Alpha Carmenère 2021, Colchagua Valley D.O., Chile: Montes Alpha 2021 Carmenère is produced from sustainably-grown, dry-farmed grapes sourced from the Marchigue and Apalta, Colchagua Valley wine region. A lovely vintage that is dry and medium-plus-bodied, showing plenty of ripe red berry, blueberry fruit, sweet dried tobacco leaf and spicy notes on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained. Drink through 2026. Drink: 2023-2027. 143230 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 16, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewViña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Organic Red Blend 2021, Maipo Valley, Chile: Tarapacá Gran Reserva 2021 is a vegan friendly, organic red wine blend produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot grapes (54%/21%/10%/10%/5%) sourced from Fundo Tarapacá, Maipo Valley in Chile. Great value at $19 and loaded with ripe dark fruit, blackberry, raspberry, cold black tea and spicy flavours wrapped up in vibrant food-friendly acidity. Tannins are firm. Pour with prime rib. Drink or hold to 2030. Drink: 2024-2031. 35970 13.60% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 93/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Carmenère 2021, Maule Valley D.O., Chile: From a good vintage, San Pedro 1865 2021 is a great value Maule Valley Carmenère at $20. Dry, medium-bodied and fragrant with dark plum, cherry, dried grilled herbs, white pepper and green leafy/bell pepper notes fresh on the palate. Very tasty, enjoy it with sirloin steaks from the grill. Delicious now or hold to 2026. Drink: 2023-2027. 249201 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 4, 2023
Venerated Vegetarian Wine Full ReviewRavanal Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Colchagua Valley, Chile: From Colchagua Valley, Ravanal Gran Reserva 2019 is great value at $17. A dry, medium-plus-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon fragrant with blackcurrant, cedar brush spice, nutty, mocha and dried fine herb flavours concentrated on the palate. So easy to love, especially at this price. Drink or hold to 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 542183 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. November 4, 2023
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewMontes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Colchagua Valley D.O., Chile: Montes Alpha 2020 is an excellent value Cabernet Sauvignon-driven red wine blend (with 10% Syrah and 5% Carmenère added to the mix), a special cuvée with grapes sourced from Montes' extensive plantings in Marchigüe. Although the wine is built to age, it is currently showing some beautiful flavours of wild herbs, black currant, black cherry, plum and earthy florals smoky with subtle spicy and dark chocolate notes on the palate. Tannins are plushy. Drink from 2024 to the end of the decade. Drink: 2024-2031. 649160 14.60% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 95/100. December 2, 2023
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewArboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Aconcagua Costa D.O., Chile: From the Aconcagua Costa wine region, Arboleda 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great value Chilean Cab at $20. Produced by Eduardo Chadwick, this dry, medium-plus-bodied, vegan-friendly and fruity Cab is rich in blackberry, herbal and toasted oak spice flavours with good acidity for food and refreshing on the palate. Tannins are structured. The grapes for this vintage were sourced from the Las Vertientes zone on the west side of the Aconcagua Valley and the wine was aged 14 months in oak barrels (30% new). Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2029. 606764 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 16, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewErrázuriz Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Aconcagua Alto, Aconcagua Valley D.O., Chile: Errázuriz 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a vegan-friendly 100% Cab with grapes sourced from a selection of vineyards in the Panquehue area in the Aconcagua Valley wine region. Although from a hot vintage, this dry, medium-plus-bodied red is refined and elegant with bright red fruit, fine herb and spicy notes balanced with brilliant acidity on the palate. The wine was aged up to 14 months in French oak barrels. Drink through 2028. Drink: 2023-2028. 203364 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. September 2, 2023
Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Selected Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Las Piedras, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: From Las Piedras, Maipo Valley wine region, San Pedro 1865 2021 is a great value Cabernet Sauvignon at $21. Sourced from select vineyards from the terraces of the Maipo Valley with sandy and gravelly soils, the wine is dry, medium-bodied and earthy with black olive, crushed black raspberry, savoury herbs, dark chocolate and spicy flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained. The wine was aged in oak barrels for 12 months (20% new). Drink: 2023-2027. 37911 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. February 3, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewLuma Chequen Carmenère 2019, Maule Valley, Chile: Luma Chequen Gran Reserva 2019 Carmenère is a great value Chilean red at $17. Dry, medium-bodied, fresh and fruity, look for bright cherry, mulberry, coffee and meaty flavours on this vibrant red wine from the Maule Valley. Drink: 2023-2028. 30988 13.90% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. September 9, 2023
Vital Vegetarian Pizza Wine Full ReviewAlyan Family Ambassador Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Maipo Valley, Chile: Alyan Family Ambassador 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great value Alto Maipo Valley, dry and medium-plus-bodied Cab at $20. Grapes are sourced from estate vineyards from vines that are 14-plus years of age grown in the Pirque zone. Look for fresh, dark berry fruit, spicy and herbal notes on this vibrant, food-friendly and elegant red wine. Tannins are fine and smooth. Enjoy with steaks from the grill. Drink: 2023-2027. 30993 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 7, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewConcha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Maule Valley, Chile: Concha y Toro Casillero Del Diablo Reserva Especial 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is dry, medium-bodied and bright with black currant, black olive, pepper and toasty oak spice flavours juicy and fresh on the palate with a lingering berry fruit finish. Tannins are pleasantly chewy. A great value Chilean Cab at $18 made for burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink: 2023-2026. 30994 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. September 23, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewMorande Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Maipo Valley, Chile: From the Maipo Valley wine region, Morande Gran Reserva 2020 is a flavourful Cabernet Sauvignon, dry, medium-bodied and lithe with black currant, dark berry, wild herb and pepper spice flavours fresh on the palate. The wine was aged 18 months in French oak barrels. Drink now and through 2030. Drink: 2023-2029. 389254 14.20% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Maipo Valley, Chile: Each of the wines from the 1865 portfolio is made from its own selected vineyard planted with the particular grape in mind. This gorgeous Chilean Cabernet is full-bodied with fleshy ripe blackberries. Lots of dark fruit flavour and a long satisfying finish. This Cabernet is planted in the winery's Alto Maipo vineyard planted 40 years ago with vines propagated by massal selection. Average summer high temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius or 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The vines are in clay-loam soils in an alluvial terrace. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2018-2022. 37911 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. March 30, 2019
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewPerez Cruz Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Maipo Valley, Chile: Terrific full-bodied Chilean Cabernet with fleshy ripe black plums and a savoury juiciness. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014-2019. 694208 13.50% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. September 5, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Leyda Valley, Chile: A crisp, mouth-watering, vibrant Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. Medium-bodied with a long finish. Match with seafood, shellfish and roast turkey. Each of the wines in the 1865 line-up comes from its own single vineyard. These Sauvignon Blanc grapes are planted only 4 kilometres from the Pacific Ocean. Drink: 2019-2021. 375212 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. November 10, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewMontGras Intriga Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Maipo Valley, Chile: A bright and nervy medium-bodied Cab-Sauv-based red blend from Intriga estate, produced from vines averaging over 70 years of age. Fragrant and juicy blackberry, strawberry, cassis and mint on the nose mirrored on the palate. Drink: 2020-2026. 57901 14.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. November 5, 2020
Top Rated Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewViña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: A savoury and juicy cabernet sauvignon with aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries. A full-bodied red wine that's smooth and imminently gulpable. Finishes with smoke and spice. Terrific for such a bold red wine from Chile's Maipo Valley with depth and length in the glass and on the palate. Try it with grilled ribs. Drink: 2022-2025. 18721 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. May 12, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewLapostolle Gran Selección Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Rapel Valley, Chile: Lapostolle Gran Seleccion 2018 is a fantastic value Rapel Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($17) from a carbon neutral winery. Fresh and juicy on the palate, this is a dry, medium-bodied Cab with ripe blackberry, black currant, cedar spice and toasty oak spice flavours finishing long and bright on the palate. Drink: 2021-2022. 514166 14.10% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. August 6, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewMorandé Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2019, Casablanca Valley D.O., Chile: From the Casablanca Valley wine region, Morandé Gran Reserva 2019 Chardonnay is elegant and refined with layers of fresh pear, apple, lemon zest, anise and smoky vanilla spices balanced with fresh acidity. Nice complexity and concentration. Drink or hold. Pour with a seafood Alfredo. Drink: 2021-2024. 83287 13% XD 750 mL $16.25 Score: 91/100. October 15, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewMontes Alpha Carmenère 2018, Colchagua Valley D.O., Chile: Montes Alpha 2018 Carmenère is produced from sustainably-grown, dry-farmed grapes from the Colchagua Valley wine region. The wine over delivers at $20 and is always a crowd pleaser. Fragrant with ripe plum, blackberry, mocha aromas on the nose; dry, medium-bodied with plum compote, dark berry fruit, blueberry, dried herbs, olives and flinty mineral flavours. Pour with a sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2021-2025. 143230 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 30, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewSan Pedro 1865 Selected Vineyards Carmenère 2022, Colchagua Valley, Las Lagunas D.O., Chile: From the Colchagua Valley, Las Lagunas D.O., San Pedro Selected Vineyards 1865 (2022) Carmenère is dry, medium-bodied and fragrant with bright cherry, dark plum, cassis, smoky and spicy on the palate with balanced bright acidity for food. Tannins are velvety. Very nice as is its price at $20. Drink: 2024-2028. 249201 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 21, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewViña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Carmenère 2020, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: From the Maipo Valley, Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva 2020 Carmenère is a fragrant, big, bold and full-bodied red wine with layers of ripe dark fruit, anise, black pepper and grilled herb flavours on the palate. Pour with steaks from the grill. Drink: 2024-2028. 57513 14.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. March 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewPrimus The Blend 2019, Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Produced from sustainably grown grapes from Alto de Casablanca, Primus The Blend 2019 is a vegan-friendly red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Syrah, Petit Verdot with a splash of Cabernet Franc . Amazing value at $20, look for dark cherry, plum, earthy violets, savoury herb flavours bright on the palate. Tannins are firm. Good now, better in 2023. Drink: 2023-2026. 712463 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. October 8, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewFalernia Titón Single Vineyard Reserva Syrah 2017, Elqui Valley, Chile: Falernia Reserva 2017 Syrah is an amazing value Chilean Reserva. Smoky and spicy on the nose, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated with dark berry, smoked meat, mocha, olive, cracked pepper spice with a velvety finish. Grapes were sourced from the Elquí Valley wine region near the town of La Serena, 320 miles north of Santiago. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 16793 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. March 4, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewEscudo Rojo Reserva Carmenère 2020, Colchagua Valley, Chile: From the Colchagua Valley, Escudo Reserva 2020 Carmenère is excellent value at $19. Produced by Baron Philippe de Rothschild with sustainably grown grapes from Marchigüe on the western side of the Colchagua Valley. The wine is fragrant with blueberry, red berry, savoury herb and mocha flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Enjoy with a roast duck dinner. Drink: 2022-2024. 14058 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. December 3, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewMorandé Gran Reserva Carmenère 2020, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: Morandé Gran Reserva 2020 Carmenère is produced from sustainably grown grapes from organically-managed vineyards in the Maipo Valley. Fragrant with ripe blackberry, exotic spices and chocolate aromas, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and zesty with bright cherry, dark berry, dark spices and dark chocolate flavours smooth and silky on the palate. The wine was aged in large oak vats for 16 months. A straight-forward Carmenère to enjoy with a sausage cassoulet or sirloin steak from the grill. Drink: 2023-2026. 371112 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. February 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Venerated Vegetarian Wine Full ReviewPérez Cruz Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Maipo Valley, Chile: From the Maipo Valley wine region, Pérez Cruz 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a solid, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon aged in French oak barrels, look for ripe blackberry, black currant, dark cherry, chocolate, mint and spicy flavours vibrant and silky on the palate. Enjoy it with lamb chops from the grill. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2029. 431015 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. February 4, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewErrázuriz Alto Carmenère Carmenère 2020, Aconcagua Alto, Aconcagua Valley D.O., Chile: From the Aconcagua Alto, Aconcagua Valley wine region, Errázuriz 2020 Carmenère is a dry, medium-plus-bodied, vegan-friendly Chilean red fragrant with bright cherry, dark berry, sweet dried tobacco leaf, savoury olive and chocolate flavours juicy and plushy on the palate. Drink: 2023-2024. 546424 14.20% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. February 18, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewViña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Carmenère 2021, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: Tarapacá Gran Reserva 2021 Carmenère is fragrant with ripe blackberry, savoury black olive and dark spices and is dry, medium-plus-bodied and plushy with cassis, black olive, savoury herbs, pepper and toasted oak spice flavours long and silky on the palate. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 57513 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. December 2, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewEmiliana Novas Gran Reserva Carmenère 2020, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Emiliana Novas Gran Reserva 2020 is a rich, silky and spicy, vegan-friendly Carmenère and Cabernet Sauvignon red wine blend produced from organically-grown grapes sourced from the Colchagua Valley. Typical of its terroir, the wine is showing fine herbs, black currant and tomato leaf flavours with a long and spicy finish, Tannins are velvety. Drink: 2023-2025. 30996 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 91/100. April 29, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewGérard Bertrand An 806 2019, Corbières, Languedoc A.P., France: Gérard Bertrand An 806 2019 is an excellent value Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre red wine blend at $18. A full-bodied and silky red from the Corbières, Languedoc wine region, smoky on the nose and rich on the palate with rich dark berry, plum, crushed raspberry, savoury herbs, mocha and smoky toasted oak flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are medium and rounded. Enjoy with grilled meats. Drink: 2023-2027. 394288 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. May 27, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewDomaine de La Madone Le Perréon 2021, Burgundy A.C., France: Domaine de La Madone Le Perréon 2021 is produced by Jean Bererd et Fils. This dry, medium-bodied Beaujolais Village 100% Gamay is as enticing on the nose as it is on the palate with fragrant pink florals, raspberry, citrus zest, anise, white pepper spice and smoky flavours on the palate and a briny mineral finish. Tannins are supple. A lovely expression of Gamay produced from grapes sourced from the high-altitude granitic slopes of Perréon in the southern Beaujolais. Drink: 2023-2025. 981175 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. April 1, 2023
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewDomaine Fond Croze Le Serre De La Garde 2020, Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: Domaine Fond Croze Le Serre De La Garde 2020 is produced from organically grown Grenache and Syrah wine grapes from the Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône wine region. Amazing value at $17, the wine is fragrant with fresh violets, blueberry, dark cherry and raspberry flavours with a hint of minerality on the finish. Very nicely done! Tannins are supple. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 28545 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. April 1, 2023
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewGérard Bertrand Heritage An 1886 Les Aspres Grenache Mourvèdre Syrah 2019, Côtes du Roussillon, Languedoc A.P., France: From the Côtes Du Roussillon, Languedoc wine region, Gérard Bertrand Heritage Les Aspres 2019 is a dry, spicy and full-bodied red wine blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache with black cherry, blackberry, grilled herbs, cocoa, clove and toasty oak spice flavours with a mineral kiss on the finish. "Heritage" is the new name for Gérard Bertrand's Terroir line of wines. Drink: 2022-2026. 413245 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 18, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewChâteau de Tréviac Corbières 2019, Corbières, Languedoc A.P., France: Château de Tréviac 2019 is a great value Corbières at $18. Dry, full-bodied with a mouthful of raspberry, blueberry, dark cherry, dark chocolate and pepper spice flavours generous on the palate, the wine is produced from 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache sourced from the Talairan in the Aude department. Drink: 2022-2025. 670505 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. October 8, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewSaint-Roch Vieilles Vignes Syrah Grenache 2019, Côtes Du Roussillon, Roussillon A.P., France: From the Côtes Du Roussillon wine region, Saint-Roch 2019 Old Vines Grenache and Syrah is amazing value at $17. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and spicy with dark berry fruit, smoky herbs, anise and pepper spice flavours plushy on the palate. Delish! Pour with grilled meats. Drink: 2022-2027. 195107 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. October 8, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewGérard Bertrand An 990 Grenache Carignan 2019, Fitou, Midi A.P., France: Gérard Bertrand An 990 2019 is a fresh, fruity and spicy Fitou; a dry and full-bodied blend of Grenache and Carignan. The year 990 on this wine's label refers to the feudal citadel of Fitou, which marked the border between France and Aragon. The Carignan for this wine underwent carbonic maceration while the Grenache aged in a combination of new and previous-use oak barrels. Look for spiced plum, cherry, strawberry and wild herb flavours plushy on the palate. Excellent value under $20, pour with burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink: 2022-2026. 403683 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. July 16, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewChâteau Hyot Réserve 2018, Castillon Côtes De Bordeaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: Château Hyot Reserve 2018 is a great value Castillon, Côtes De Bordeaux red wine blend of 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc. Look for ripe dark cherry, red currant, dried florals, dried tobacco leaf, anise, clove and toasty oak spice velvety and lingering on the palate. Tannins are polished and rounded. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2028. 14667 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. June 3, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewLouis Bernard Louis Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2020, Côtes du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: Louis Bernard Louis 2020 is an excellent value Côtes du Rhône Villages at $17. Produced from mostly Grenache with a portion in Syrah, the wine is elegant with dark berry, cassis, pepper and toasty oak spice flavours lush, juicy with a kiss of minerality on the finish. Easy to love. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2024. 561290 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. October 7, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewChâteau Saint-Roch Vieilles Vignes Syrah Grenache 2018, Côtes du Roussillon A.P., France: Saint-Roch 2018 is an excellent value, full-bodied Syrah and Grenache wine blend under $17 from old vines over 60 years of age. A tasty GSM from the Côtes-De-Roussillon wine region. Rich with dark fruit, savoury and supple on the palate with ripe blueberry, dark cherry, wild herbs and smoky spicy flavours. Drink: 2021-2026. 195107 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 30, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewChâteau Peyros Tannat Cabernet 2018, Madiran, Southwest A.C., France: Château Peyros 2018 is a dry, full-bodied muscular Tannat and Cabernet Franc red wine blend produced by the Famille Lesgourgues. Rich and spicy on the palate with blueberry, black raspberry, earthy florals and dried wild herbs made for roast duck or a rich sausage cassoulet. Grapes are sourced from the family estate in southern Madiran. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2028. 208249 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. February 4, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewLouis Bernard Louis Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2019, Côtes du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: From the Côtes du Rhône wine region, Louis Bernard Louis 2019 is a medium-bodied Côtes Du Rhône Village produced from 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah wine grapes lush and plushy on the palate with ripe cassis, blackberry, meaty and pepper spice flavours finishing toasty, long and elegant on the palate. Drink or hold. Drink: 2021-2026. 561290 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. November 26, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTessellae Old Vines Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre 2018, Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: From Domaine Lafage Tessellae 2018 is produced from old vines Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (60/30/10) from the Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi wine region. This is a plushy GSM, full-bodied and concentrated with rich cherry, dark berry, plum, cracked pepper, garrigue herbs and dark spice flavours on the palate. Enjoy now and for the next couple of years with ribs and burgers from the grill. The Lafage family have been wine growers for seven generations. Drink: 2021-2025. 343517 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 26, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewMichel Gassier Nostre Païs 2017, Costières-de-Nîmes, Rhône A.P., France: Produced by Michel Gassier, a juicy, vibrant, medium-plus-bodied red wine blend of 55% Grenache, 25% Syrah with some Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Carignan wine grapes. Look for ripe red berry, plum, garrigue herb, pepper and savoury spice flavours on the palate. Drink: 2020-2026. 295410 14% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. November 13, 2020
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewGérard Bertrand Languedoc Syrah Grenache 2017, Languedoc A.P., France: A robust southern French red wine blend of Syrah and Grenache grapes, with vines planted closer to the Mediterranean sea and therefore there are more spice accents in the finished wine along with red berries and pepper. Although the Languedoc is the world's largest wine region with 235,000 acres, it is not one homogenous mass or style wine-wise. There are actually 5 sub-climates and more than 50 different grapes used in varying blends. Compare that to the 5 grapes used in Bordeaux. There are also 8 different and distinctive winds that blow through the vines here as compared to one in the Rhone, the Mistral. Pair with steak and hamburgers. Drink: 2019-2024. 413237 14.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. December 3, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewSaint-Roch Vieilles Vignes Syrah Grenache 2017, Côtes Du Roussillon, Roussillon A.P., France: a great value GSM, full-bodied, juicy from the Côtes-De-Roussillon wine region. Dry, fruity and spicy with ripe dark fruit, cherry and dried wild herb flavours on the palate. Enjoy now with grilled game sausages. Drink: 2020-2026. 195107 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. March 25, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewTessellae Old Vines Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre 2017, Côtes du Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: Produced from old vines Grenache (50%), Syrah (40%) and Mourvèdre (10%) grapes sourced from the Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi wine region in south France. Full-bodied with ripe blackberry, cherry liqueur, dark berry, plum, dried florals, wild herbs and dark spice flavours smooth on the palate. Drink: 2019-2022. 343517 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 5, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewPerrin & Fils Reserve 2015, Cotes du Rhône, France: A superb value, especially at this price! This southern French red wine from the heart of the Rhone Valley is made by the Perrin family, which also produces the coveted Chateau Beaucastel and farm organically. Smoky, dark, rich and full-bodied, this is a superb wine for anyone who wants a drier style of Syrah (Shiraz). Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2018-2023. 363457 13.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. April 11, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewLouis Bouillot Perle d'Aurore Brut Rosé Crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy A.C., France: Dry, crisp and refreshing yet with the softening aromas of fresh field strawberries. Terrific value: unbeatable for rose sparkling wine! Yes please, again. Pair with seared tuna or planked salmon. Drink: 2022-2025. 48793 12% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. June 29, 2022
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewSaint-Roch Chimères Grenache Syrah Carignan 2020, Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: From the Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi wine region, Saint-Roch Chimères 2020 is a dry, medium-plus-bodied red blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignan grapes. Produced by winemaker Jean-Marc Lafage. Look for dark cherry, ripe plum, sweet baking spice, wild herbs and pepper spice flavours generous and plushy on the palate. Overdelivers at $20. Drink: 2023-2029. 119354 15% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. March 12, 2024
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewVia Caritatis Vox Angelorum 2020, Ventoux, Rhône A.P., France: From the Ventoux, Rhône wine region, Via Caritatis Vox Angelorum 2020 is a great value Syrah and Grenache red wine blend at $20. Dry, medium-bodied, fruity and elegant with red berry, blueberry, blackberry and pepper spice flavours concentrated and fresh on the palate, this is a Rhône red to be enjoyed with a slow-cooked shoulder roast of lamb. The Syrah and Grenache grape vines for this wine were planted at an altitude of 320-380 metres above sea level and are tempered by the Mistral wind. Vines are organically grown and the grapes benefit from the region's warm days and cool nights. Drink: 2023-2027. 35622 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. November 18, 2023
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewLa Roselière Laudun 2020, Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: From Frédéric Arnaud, La Roselière Laudun 2020 is an excellent value Côtes du Rhône Villages at $19. A dry, medium-plus-bodied rich and intense blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, this Rhône red is perfumed with ripe red berry, cherry, black olive, dark plum, wild herb flavours spicy, zesty and finishing long on the palate. Absolutely fantastic and irresistible at this price. Drink: 2023-2028. 31694 14.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewChâteau Hyot 2020, Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: From the Castillon Côtes De Bordeaux wine region, Château Hyot 2020 is a great value Merlot-driven red wine blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc in support. Produced by Alain Aubert, prop., the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and rich with dark plum, cassis, pepper spice and flinty mineral notes from beginning to end. Tannins are fine and firm, but the wine has the structure, acidity and fruit to handle it. Give it some time to marry and mellow. An amazing value Bordeaux at $16 to drink from 2025. Drink: 2025-2028. 63537 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. December 16, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewDomaines André Aubert Visan Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2022, Côtes du Rhône, Rhône A.C., France: Domaines André Aubert Visan 2022 is an excellent value Côtes Du Rhône Village at $17. The wine is a lush and full-bodied red wine blend of Grenache and Syrah sourced from the southern Rhône appellation of Visan, and is a mouthful of ripe and juicy strawberry, cherry, pepper spice and flinty mineral flavours framed by chalky-textured tannins. Beautifully balanced and in total harmony, at this price point buy it by the case. Drink through 2025. Drink: 2023-2025. 224915 13.50% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. June 8, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewLouis Bernard Louis 2021, Côtes Du Rhône, Rhône A.P., France: Louis Bernard Louis 2021 is an excellent value Côtes du Rhône Villages at $18. Lovely, rich and concentrated, it is an intense 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah blend showing dark berry, cassis, wild herbs, dark cherry, dark spices and mineral notes juicy on the palate. Enjoy with gourmet burgers or veal stuffed Portobello mushrooms from the grill. Drink: 2024-2028. 561290 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. September 21, 2024
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewGérard Bertrand Heritage 560 Tautavel 2021, Tautavel, Côtes du Roussillon, Roussillon A.P., France: Gérard Bertrand Heritage 2021 is an excellent value Côtes du Roussillon-Villages at $20. This dry, vibrant and full-bodied red is produced from Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan grapes sourced from vines grown in pebbly and limestone soils in the Tautavel region. Fragrant with ripe red cherry, plums and sweet spice flavours, it is creamy and rounded on the palate with velvety tannins and a long bright cherry finish. Drink or hold through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 272575 14.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewFanti Poggio Torto 2020, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Poggio Torto 2020 is a dry, full-bodied and savoury red wine blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes sourced from the Tenuta Fanti estate. Poggio Torto translates to "leaning hill" referring to the irregular shape of the Poggio d’Arna hill that is situated in front of the winery. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks for four months prior to ageing for four months in oak barrels. Fruity and vibrant, the wine is dry, medium-bodied and generous on the palate with blackberry, cherry, boysenberry, earthy mushroom and fine herb flavours framed by soft, velvety tannins and a zesty finish. Drink: 2023-2028. 574251 14.30% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 93/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewTedeschi Capitel Nicalò Valpolicella Superiore 2020, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: From the Veneto wine region, Tedeschi Capitel Nicalò 2020 is a great value Valpolicella Superiore at $20. Produced from sustainably-grown grapes (35%) Corvina, (35%) Corvinone and (10%) Rondinella. A portion of the grapes were dried, destemmed, pressed and fermented on their skins for 14 days, then blended with the balance of the wine and matured in oak barrels for 12 months. Fresh and concentrated on the palate with flavours of ripe blackberry, cherry, raisined fruit, prune jam, cedar spice and savoury herbs. Tannins are rich and structured. Pour with roast beef dinner. Drink: 2023-2028. 984997 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. June 24, 2023
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewTommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella Classico 2020, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Tommasi Rafaèl 2020 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a great value fruity, full-bodied, traditional Corvina, Rondinella and Molina red blend at $20. Fragrant with fresh red berries, cherry, fine herb, vanilla, baking spice flavours and peppery notes on nose and palate. Beautifully balanced with fresh acidity, tannins are medium and fine-grained. The wine was matured for 15 months in Slavonian oak casks. Produced from a fourth-generation family estate founded in 1902 with holdings of 260 acres in the Valpolicella Classico zone. Drink: 2023-2025. 23259 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 9, 2023
Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewZenato Alanera 2019, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Zenato 2019 is a great value parziale appassimento at $19. The winery partially dries half of the grapes for several months so the wine is fruity and concentrated with fresh fruit and dried fruit flavours. This example is lush with blueberry, dark cherry, spiced plums, dried herbs and spicy flavours silky smooth and long on the palate. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2028. 451724 13.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. September 9, 2023
Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewCastello di Gabbiano Cavaliere d'Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2018, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: From Castello di Gabbiano, Cavaliere D'oro Riserva 2018 is dry, full-bodied Chianti produced with mostly Sangiovese grapes and 5% Merlot. Fermentation took place on the skins in small stainless-steel tanks with regular punch downs. A secondary natural malolactic conversion occurred with half in stainless steel and French oak barrel. The wine was aged 12 months in traditional French oak casks and barriques (10% new oak) with an additional 12 months development in bottle prior to its release. Look for bright red cherry, dried strawberry, fine herbs, mint and subtle spicy flavours on the palate with a soft citrus finish. Drink through 2030. Drink: 2023-2032. 216309 14.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. October 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewFontanafredda Barbera D'alba 2021, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: From the Piedmont wine region, Fontanafredda 2021 is a great value Barbera d'Alba at $18. Fragrant with pink florals, black cherry and dark berry fruit, the wine is zesty, meaty and spicy on the palate with a lingering mineral and mocha finish. Enjoy with roasted Cornish game hens or bison and blueberry sausages from the grill. Drink through 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 17530 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. September 23, 2023
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewZenato Valpolicella Superiore 2020, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Zenato 2020 Valpolicella Superiore is great value at $19. Dry, medium-bodied and perfumed with spicy dark cherry, red currant, plum and toasty oak spice fresh on the palate with a hint of chocolate, cola and savoury herbs. The wine is produced mostly from Corvina Veronese with Rondinella and Corvinone grapes in support. Tannins are well-integrated. Founded in 1960, Zenato is one of the most trusted names in all of wine industry. For more than half a century, Zenato has concentrated on making premium wines in Veneto. Drink: 2024-2025. 995704 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewCusumano Terre Siciliane Nero D'avola 2018, Sicily, Italy: This Italian red wine is made from the Nero d'Avola grape, the iconic red grape of the island of Sicily. Layers of fleshy black (nero) fruit and pepper spice. The Cusumano family has been making wine for more than 60 years on the southern Italian island of Sicily. Their expertise and craft shows in the glass of this exceptional red wine. Such terrific value! Pair with gourmet hamburgers and meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2019-2022. 143164 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. December 16, 2019
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewTolaini Al Passo 2015, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy Drink: 2020-2023. 380104 13.50% D 750 mL $29.95. February 26, 2020
Full ReviewSanta Margherita Chianti Classico 2017, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A vibrant Chianti Classico with bright black cherry, red berry, earthy florals, cedar spice, savoury herbs wrapped up in a whiff of smoke. Drink: 2020-2024. 91694 13.50% D 750 mL $33.95 Score: 90/100. May 11, 2021
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewSan Felice Chianti Classico 2019, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: San Felice 2019 Chianti Classico is a dry, medium-bodied Chianti Classico produced from mostly Sangiovese grapes. Earthy, savoury fragrant with pink florals with a mouthful of tart cherry, savoury herbs and orange zest flavours fresh and silky on the palate. Enjoy with a Margherita pizza. Drink: 2022-2023. 282996 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. February 4, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full ReviewTedeschi Capitel Nicalò Valpolicella Superiore 2019, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Tedeschi Capitel Nicalò 2019 Valpolicella Superiore is excellent value at $18. Produced from 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella and 10% of other local grapes from vines over 20 years of age. Grapes were dried for one month, destemmed, pressed and fermented on their skins for 14 days and the blended wine was matured in oak barrel for 12 months. Look for tart cherry, wild herb, sous bois and spicy and smooth on its medium-bodied frame. Love the lengthy dark cherry and chocolate finish on this well-crafted Valpolicella. Drink: 2021-2025. 984997 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. October 8, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewLa Pieve Barolo 2017, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: La Pieve 2017 Barolo continues to evolve. A beautiful, developing, full-bodied Barolo produced with 100% Nebbiolo with dark cherry, tar, leather, smoky and spicy flavours on the palate. Tannins are grippy. Good now but better 2022 and can easily cellar for 10-plus years. Excellent value!. Enjoy with prime rib. Drink: 2021-2032. 213132 14.50% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 92/100. October 27, 2021
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewMazzei Ser Lapo Riserva Chianti Classico Riserva 2019, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Mazzei Ser Lapo Reserva 2019 Chianti Classico is produced from 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot sourced from vines 15 to 30 years of age. Smoky and fragrant with black cherry on the nose, spicy and zesty on the palate with layers of earthy florals, dark cherry, blackberry and smoke. Tannins are dusty. A good cellaring candidate for 10-plus years. Drink or hold. Drink: 2024-2029. 288530 13.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. November 18, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBoscaini Carlo S. Giorgio Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2015, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: From the Veneto wine region, Boscaini Carlo S. Giorgio 2015 Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico is a rich and sumptuous blend of 40% Corvina, 40% Corvinone and 20% Rondinella. Look for concentrated dried red berry fruit, cherry, dried fine herbs and chocolate minty flavours on the palate. Pour with a Bistecca Florentine. Drink: 2022-2026. 82230 16% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. July 16, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewBricco Rosso Dogliani 2019, Dogliani, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Bricco is a vegan-friendly, certified-organic Dolcetto from the Dogliani, Piedmont wine region and amazing value under $17. Juicy, full-bodied and vibrant with spiced plum, dark cherry, earthy florals, smoky pepper and sous bois flavours on the palate. Tannins are rich. The Dolcetto grape allows the wine to be more approachable and ready to drink than Nebbiolo-based Barolos and Barbarescos. Produced form 100% Dolcetto sourced from the steeply sloped vineyards of Bricco Rosso Estate. Pour with grilled meats or a rich meaty lasagne with a sun-dried tomato sauce. Drink: 2022-2025. 705699 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. July 15, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Vital Vegetarian Pizza Wine Full ReviewTommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2019, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Tommasi Rafaèl 2019 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a fruity, full-bodied, traditional Corvina, Rondinella and Molina red blend and super value at $20. Fragrant with ripe raspberry, cherry compote, black olive, anise, cinnamon, cedar brush spice creamy and lingering on the palate. Balanced with bright acidity and tannins are medium and fine-grained. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2026. 23259 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 8, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewCarpineto Farnito Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Carpineto Farnito 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, vibrant, full-bodied Cab produced from grapes grown in the winery vineyard estates of Gaville and Chianciano/Montepulciano. Fragrant with dark berry, cherry, liquorice and vanilla aromas; rich and layered with dark berry, cherry, plum, chocolate, menthol and spicy flavours that linger and replay on the palate. Tannins are structured and fine-grained. Drink or hold. Drink: 2022-2025. 996553 12.50% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. February 1, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewLornano Chianti Classico 2017, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Lornano 2017 Chianti Classico is a great value 100% Sangiovese ($21) from the Tuscany wine region. Fragrant and juicy with bright, ripe cherry, red berry, plum, loamy earth and dark chocolate flavours lingering on the palate with a nutty, spicy finish. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 211599 14.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. February 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full ReviewStoria Antica Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2020, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Storia Antica Superiore 2020 Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore is a great value, dry, full-bodied Veneto red, rich on the nose and palate with ripe dark fruits, cherry, dark chocolate, pepper and toasty oak spice flavours supple and elegant on the palate. Tannins are velvety. "Storia antica" translates to "ancient history" in recognition of the ancient technique of drying grapes prior to their fermentation. Pair it with a beef rib ragu. Drink: 2023-2029. 273672 14% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. January 21, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewCarpineto Chianti Classico 2019, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: From the Tuscany wine region, Carpineto 2019 Chianti Classico is a juicy, stylish, medium-bodied Chianti produced from mostly Sangiovese with some Canaiolo added to the mix. Look for bright red berry fruit, fresh raspberry, bay leaf, minty and white pepper flavours brilliant on the palate with a long red berry finish. Drink: 2023-2026. 356048 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. February 18, 2023
Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewThe Hunting Lodge Expressions Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: The Hunting Lodge Expression 2019 Sauvignon Blanc is a juicy Marlborough SB with passionfruit, fine herbs, lime peel subtle on the nose and vibrant on the palate. At its best now to 2022. Drink: 2021-2022. 17667 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. May 12, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Great Goat Cheese Wine Full ReviewMatahiwi Estate Chardonnay 2020, Hawke's Bay, North Island, New Zealand: From Hawke's Bay, North Island, Matahiwi Estate 2020 Chardonnay is produced with sustainably-grown grapes. Dry, medium-bodied and creamy, this is a lovely mouth-filling Chard with ripe stone fruit, red apple, vanilla and sweet toasty oak spice flavours nicely balanced with food-friendly acidity. Excellent value under $20. Drink: 2021-2023. 17547 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewEradus Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: From the Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, Eradus 2020 Sauvignon Blanc is a vibrant, medium-bodied SB fragrant with grassy, pineapple, ripe stone fruit and stoney mineral aromas. Dry, with pineapple, lemon-lime zest, melon, peach flavours finishing with a vibrant citrusy minerality. Loads of flavour here. Chill and enjoy with a scallop ceviche. Drink: 2021-2023. 225557 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. February 2, 2022
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewJules Taylor Pinot Noir 2020, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: From the Marlborough, South Island wine region, Jules Taylor 2020 Pinot Noir is fresh and bright with plum, earthy violets, raspberry, strawberry, dark cherry and nutty, spicy flavours with a fresh earthy mushroom finish. Produced with sustainably-grown grapes sourced from the Awatere and Brancott Valley wine regions. Drink through 2026. Drink: 2023-2026. 329805 13.50% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 94/100. September 23, 2023
Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewStoneleigh Latitude Pinot Noir 2020, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Stoneleigh Latitude 2020 Pinot Noir is produced from grapes sourced from a strip of land called the Golden Mile that is known for its quality Pinot Noir. This example is bright and mouth-filling with spiced plum, cherry, savoury herbs and mocha notes juicy and concentrated on the palate. Lightly chill and enjoy it with lamb kebabs from the grill. Drink: 2024-2026. 325654 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. October 18, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewFiuza Eminente 2020, Tejo, Portugal: From the Tejo wine region, Fiuza Eminente Reserva 2020 is excellent value at $17. Produced from Touriga Nacional and Cabernet Sauvignon and juicy with ripe dark berry, black currant, dark cherry, smoky spices, full-bodied and fleshy on the palate. Tannins are pleasantly grippy. A rich wine to drink now or cellar for up to three years. Drink: 2023-2026. 646042 13.30% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 29, 2023
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewCabeça de Toiro Reserva 2017, Tejo D.O.C., Portugal: From the Tejo wine region, Cabeça de Toiro Reserva 2017 is excellent value at $18. A blend of Syrah, Castelão and Touriga Nacional aged nine months in French oak barrels. The wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and zesty on the palate with ripe dark fruits, savoury herbs, dried sweet tobacco and toasty oak spice flavours. Tannins are firm. Produced by Winemaker, João Vicêncio. Drink: 2022-2024. 168856 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. April 29, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewPorcupine Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Porcupine Ridge 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is amazing value at $17. The grapes for this vintage were sourced from the Coastal wine region of South Africa. Look for fresh, bright and juicy blackberry, black currant, spicy and dark chocolate flavours balanced with food-friendly acidity on the palate. Enjoy with grilled meats. Drink: 2022-2026. 146894 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. July 10, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewThe Wolftrap Syrah Mourvèdre Viognier 2018, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A terrific, full-bodied, smooth South African red wine blend with aromas of dark plums, smoke and bacon. Pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2020-2023. 292557 14% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. July 27, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewKWV Cathedral Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Western Cape, South Africa: Savoury and juicy, offering incredibly great value. This robust South African red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon offers dried herbs, black plum and dark spice. Decant 2 hours. Pair with Kobe beef. Drink: 2019-2026. 328567 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 1, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewPorcupine Ridge Syrah 2018, Swartland, South Africa: Excellent value for this robust, smooth South African red wine. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2019-2022. 595280 14.60% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. September 4, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewPorcupine Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: This terrific South African Cabernet Sauvignon features blackcurrant and wild blackberry flavour richness on the nose and palate, with a gorgeously smooth texture and full-bodied weight. Nice cedar and underbrush notes on the finish. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Nice price, too. Drink: 2017-2022. 146894 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. January 20, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSpier Wines Creative Block 2 Sauvignon Blanc Sémillon 2019, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Spier Creative Block 2 2019 is a vegan-friendly, dry, medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon white wine blend produced from sustainably-grown grapes from vineyards in Durbanville and Stellenbosch wine regions. Fresh and mouth-watering with gooseberry, grassy notes, pink grapefruit and fine herb flavours leesy and creamy on the palate. Produced by Jacques Erasmus. Drink: 2021-2023. 307827 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. August 20, 2021
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewGlenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Glenelly Glass Collection 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied Bordeaux-style red and second label for May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, formerly of Pauillac Château Pichon Comtesse. Fragrant with pink florals, dried herbs, cedar spice and ripe dark berry aromas and flavours on the palate and delivers for the price. Drink or hold. Drink: 2021-2026. 13316 14.80% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. August 6, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewCathedral Cellar KWV Pinotage 2018, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: KWV Cathedral Cellar 2018 Pinotage is a savoury Western Cape red, fragrant with aromas of charcuterie, ripe dark cherry and smoky Madagascar vanilla. Savoury and full on the palate with ripe dark plum, dark cherry, smoked meat, mocha, toasty oak and vanilla flavours on the palate. Wine grapes are sourced from the Darling, Stellenbosch and Swartland wine regions. Drink: 2023-2025. 99267 13.90% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. March 18, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewGlenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: From the Stellenbosch wine region, Glenelly Glass Collection 2020 is a great value Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon at $19. This is the second label for May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, formerly of Pauillac Château Pichon Comtesse. Look for black currant, mint, anise, black olive and well-integrated toasty oak spice flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are fine-grained and velvety. Enjoy it through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 13316 14.80% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. July 6, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewErnie Els Big Easy 2020, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: From the Western Cape wine region, Ernie Els Big Easy 2020 is a well-priced, dry and full-bodied red blend pf 60% Shiraz, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance in equal amounts of Cinsault, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Viognier. This South African red is fragrant with earthy florals, dark berry, wild herbs, black cherry compote and chocolate flavours savoury and smooth on the palate. the wine is so name after South African golf pro Ernie Els, who earned the nickname 'The Big Easy' for his effortless swing on the golf course. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 220038 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. June 24, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewFinca Monica Crianza 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Finca Monica 2019 Tempranillo is a full-bodied Rioja red wine with dark cherry, red berry, plum, cassis, vanilla and toasty oak spice flavours fresh, generous and supple on the palate. Drink: 2023-2028. 574368 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. May 27, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewDe La Madre Garnacha 2018, Castilla La Mancha, La Mancha, Spain: From Castilla La Mancha wine region, De La Madre 2018 is a 100% estate bottled Garnacha Tintorera. Dry, medium-bodied, rich and smoky on the nose with cured meat, red berry, spicy and flinty mineral notes on the palate. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks with élevage in concrete tanks for 12 months. Fresh and elegant, enjoy it with turkey tournedos from the grill. Drink: 2023-2028. 18927 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 23, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewChapillon Siendra 2019, Calatayud D.O., Spain: From Bodegas Langa Hnos in the Calatayud wine region, Chapillon Siendra 2019 is a dry, medium-bodied 80% Old Vines Grenache, 7% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot red wine blend, savoury and plushy on the palate with ripe dark fruits, dark berry, cherry, blue florals, cedar brush spice and chocolate flavours. Tannins are velvety. Drink: 2023-2025. 417675 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. October 7, 2023
Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewClos De Tafall 2020, Priorat D.O.Q., Spain: From the Priorat D.O.Q., Clos De Tafall 2020 is a dry and intense red wine blend of mostly Old Vines Grenache with Cariñena, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in support. Smoky and spicy on the nose, on the palate look for strawberry fruit leather, anise, sweet dried tobacco leaf, savoury herbs and a lingering spicy finish. Tannins are textured. Very nice now, enjoy it to the end of the decade. Drink: 2023-2029. 574616 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewCosme Palacio 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Cosme Palacio 2018 is a great value 100% Tempranillo at $20 from the Rioja wine region. Dry, full-bodied and rich with aromas of f blackberry, plum, earthy mushroom, loam and stoney mineral flavours, it is complex Rioja red with a fresh and creamy finish. Drink or hold to 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 37552 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 21, 2024
Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewAgramont Graciano 2021, Navarra D.O., Spain: From Bodegas Agronavarra in the Navarra wine region, Agramont 2021 is an excellent value 100% Graciano at $17. A good expression of this varietal, the wine is fresh and focussed with ripe dark berry, dried tobacco, herbal and spicy notes long on the finish and framed by structured and velcroish tannins. There is plenty of food-friendly acidity on this youthful, but very approachable Graciano to enjoy with a spicy pasta dish. Drink: 2024-2026. 37262 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. June 8, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewAnciano No. 10 Grand Reserva 2015, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Anciano Gran Reserva No. 10 (2015) is always a crowd-pleaser. Deep ruby in the glass with ripe red berry, black cherry, olive, fine herb, dark chocolate, cinnamon spice and orange zest flavours with a touch of minerality, it finishes with good length and balanced acidity to pair with roast duck or a sausage cassoulet. An easy-to-love, medium-plus-bodied 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo Rioja red wine blend to enjoy through 2026. Drink: 2024-2027. 37384 13% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. April 27, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewMás Que Vinos Garnacha de la Madre 2015, Castilla La Mancha, La Mancha, Spain: From Castilla La Mancha, La Mancha Garnacha De La Madre 2015 is a 100% estate bottled Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet). Rich and smoky on the nose with cured meat, earthy and flinty aromas. Dry, medium-bodied and elegant on the palate with ripe red berry, wild herbs, white pepper and exotic spices. Fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in concrete vats for one year prior to bottling. Pour with roast duck or turkey. Drink: 2021-2022. 18927 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 3, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewCune Crianza 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Cune Crianza 2018 is a dry, medium-bodied, vegan-friendly Tempranillo with fresh red berry, cherry, citrus zest and spicy flavours on the palate balanced with bright acidity. Easy-to-understand and to enjoy. A lighter Tempranillo with easy tannins to enjoy with antipasto, crackers and cheese, or simply a glass or two by itself. Drink: 2022-2024. 39925 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 91/100. September 10, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewBurgo Viejo Crianza 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Burgo Viejo Crianza 2018 is an amazing value Rioja at $14. A red blend of mostly Tempranillo with some Graciano added to the mix, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and spicy with dark plum, blackberry, dried tobacco leaf, herbs, dark chocolate, pepper and well-integrated oak spice flavours with balanced acidity on the palate. Tannins are structured. The wine was matured for one year in American oak barrels. Pair with aged, sharp cheeses. Drink: 2022-2024. 168815 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. March 5, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBodegas Hidalgo Tradición H 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: From the Rioja wine region, Hidalgo Tradición H 2018 is a full-bodied Tempranillo with a splash of Graciano and Grenache added to the mix. Grapes were sourced from 70-plus-year-old bush vines and the blended wine was aged in American and French oak barrels for 24 months. Plushy with dark plum, red berry fruit, black olive, baking and pepper spice flavours balanced with food-friendly acidity. Tannins are chewy. Pour with grilled meats. Drink: 2022-2025. 18933 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 10, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewAtalaya Laya Almansa 2020, Almansa D.O.P., Spain: Laya 2020 is a vegan-friendly, full-bodied and smooth red wine blend of 70% Grenache Tintorera and 30% Monastrell grapes sourced from Spain's Almansa wine region from vineyards 1000 metres above sea level. Look for juicy, ripe blueberry, blackberry, spiced plum and smoky flavours on this vibrant red with dusty tannins. The wine was fermented in stainless-steel tank with full malolactic conversion in oak barrel, where the wine also matured for four months. Enjoy with ribs from the grill or a sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2022-2025. 132605 14.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. September 9, 2022
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewTarima Monastrell 2020, Alicante D.O., Spain: From Bodega Volver, Tarima 2020 is a great value Monastrell at $14. Full-bodied and vibrant with dark plum, blackberry, savoury with dark chocolate, black olives, dried tobacco leaf and smoky vanilla flavours rich on the palate. Tannins are ripe and firm. Drink: 2023-2025. 310151 14.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. February 18, 2023
Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewRomeo Selección Monastrell 2019, Jumilla D.O.P., Spain: From Bodegas Alceño in the Jumilla wine region, Romeo 2019 Monastrell is excellent value at $18. Bright with aromas of fresh blackberry, blueberry, dark plum, and vanilla with piney notes plushy and vibrant on the palate. Tannins are polished. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2026. 16590 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. February 4, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewDrumheller Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: From the Columbia Valley wine region, Drumheller 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is great value at $20. A full-bodied Cab with vibrant acidity food, ripe dark currant, raspberry, mocha, fine herbs, smoky and spicy on the finish. Enjoy with grilled meats. Grapes for this vintage were sourced from the Wahluke Slopes where grapes enjoy warm sunny days and cool nights giving vibrancy and concentration of flavours in this wine. Pour with a beef brisket. Drink: 2023-2028. 551473 13.70% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 21, 2023
Best Value Red Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewIronstone Merlot 2019, Lodi, California, United States: From the Lodi wine region, Ironstone 2019 Merlot is a consistent crowd-pleaser and a great value California Merlot under $18. Produced by the Kautz family, owners and operators of Ironstone, who began farming Lodi in 1926 and who have been making wine there ever since. Rich on the nose and rich on the palate with dark berry, black cherry, chocolate and toasty oak spice flavours on the palate, this is a supple and easy-to-enjoy Merlot to pour with burgers and ribs from the grill. Drink: 2021-2026. 704353 14% XD 750 mL $18.25 Score: 91/100. September 30, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewFirestone Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Santa Ynez Valley, California, United States: Campfire and hickory smoke on the nose and palate of this attractive, full-bodied California red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Supple. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2017-2021. 292128 13.90% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 88/100. October 13, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewStave & Steel Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, California, United States: A robust, smooth, tasty Californian red wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the Livermore Valley, a cool climate district. The wine is aged in bourbon barrels for four months rather than the oak usually used to age wine from France, Hungary or the US (but not bourbon oak). The bourbon oak staves (panels or strips of wood) impart a maple spice flavour to the wine, much like bourbon itself, with a brown sugar, vanilla toast finish. Aromas of ripe black fruit through the mid-palate. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2019-2023. 541946 13.50% D 750 mL $21.05 Score: 91/100. November 10, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewStave & Steel Canadian Whisky Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian Cabernet that's aged in Canadian whisky barrels. Aromas of fleshy ripe black fruit and smoke. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2018-2023. 13733 15.50% D 750 mL $21.05 Score: 91/100. July 8, 2021
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full ReviewDrumheller Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Drumheller 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is an amazing value Columbia Valley Cab at $19. A dry, full-bodied Cab with vibrant acidity for food, it is very approachable now and easy to love with its ripe dark and red berry, fine herb and mocha flavours fresh and concentrated on the palate. Grapes for this vintage were sourced from the sandy soils of the Wahluke Slopes that take advantage of the warm sunny days and cooler evening temperatures. A lovely Wednesday wine to enjoy with roast beef sandwiches or a meat-lover's pizza. Drink: 2024-2028. 551473 13.70% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. April 27, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewAngeline Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, California, United States: Angeline 2020 is a dry, medium-bodied, ready-to-drink-now California Cabernet Sauvignon with ripe dark fruits, earthy mushroom, black olives, nutty and spicy flavours fresh on the palate. Tannins are pleasantly grippy. Drink: 2023-2025. 33814 14.10% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. December 16, 2023
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review