d'Arenberg The Ironstone Pressings Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2006, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: This wine is a blend of Grenache (70%), Shiraz (25%) and Mourvedre (5%). Saturated flavors of fig paste, raspberry jam, cappuccino, smoke, vanilla and cinnamon spice and hickory smoke. Great purity of fruit expression with a gutsy core of polished tannins and mouth-watering acidity. Full-flavored finish lasts and lasts. Drink: 2010-2025. 974816 14.50% XD 750 mL  $68.00 Score: 95/100. June 2, 2015 Favorite Red Wine. Full Review

Wolf Blass Gold Label Riesling 2008, Eden Valley, Clare Valley, Australia: Gorgeously layered and flavoured yet absolutely refreshing! A petrol nose (a good thing) gives way to a profusion of white flowers, lime blossom and zesty energetic spring fruit. Mouth-watering and tasty. Superb! Drink: 2010-2015. 606269 13.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 11, 2010 Favourite White Wine Tied. Full Review

Le Vieux Donjon Syrah Blend 2008, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Big and bold with enticing and dazzling aromas of black cherry and cedar forest. A wine to draw you in and never let you go. Full-bodied and supple. Drink: 2010-2020. 700922 14% XD 750 mL  $80.00 Score: 93/100. December 11, 2010 Favourite Red Wine Tied. Full Review

Dr. Hermann Kabinett Riesling 2008, Erdener Treppchen, Mosel, Germany: Classic German Riesling with ripe peach and pear and a laser-focused minerality through the core. Mouth-watering acidity. Packed with flavour yet not heavy. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2010-2016. 189647 7.50% MD 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 92/100. December 11, 2010 Full Review

Michele Castellani Cinque Stelle Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2005, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: A river a satin-smooth black cherry liqueur wraps around your head and then your body. One of the most sensual wines I’ve tasted in a long time. Full-bodied and smooth with layers of hedonistic happiness. It’s high in alcohol, but why don’t you worry about that tomorrow morning? Drink: 2010-2015. 75127 15.50% D 750 mL  $54.95 Score: 97/100. November 27, 2010 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez Tinto Pesquera Crianza 2007, D.O., Ribera Del Duero, Spain: Love this style: Old World classic. Aromas of leather, dried fruit and maturity. This is simple lovely and tastes older than the vintage in a good way. Drink: 2010-2017. 247262 14% XD 750 mL  $34.95 Score: 92/100. November 13, 2010 Full Review