Bel Echo Terroir Greywacke Clos Henri Pinot Noir 2012, Marlborough, South Island: Love the blend of expressive New World fruit with a savoury, earthy Old World edge in style. Aromas of mouth-watering black cherry, luscious layers of satiny fleshy fruit with some spice on the finish. Superb quality and taste for the money. The signature of the Greywacke sandstone soil comes through on the both the palate and finish. Previous vintages of this wine have won the Gold Medal at the Royal Easter Show Wine Awards. Drink: 2013-2016. 159137 13.50% XD 750 mL $25.25 Score: 90/100. July 5, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Alamos The Wines Of Catena Torrontés 2013, Salta, Argentina: Torrontes as a grape always delivers a floral profusion on the nose, and wisp vibrant white wine is no exception. Medium-bodied and food-friendly. Such an aromatic and characterful wine. Torrontés is the signature white wine of Argentina. Finishes with a lick of lemon and a wisp of white grapefruit. Drink: 2013-2016. 81539 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 24, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full Review
Malma Reserva Bodega Nqn Malbec 2010, Argentina, Argentina: Love it! Chewy and full-bodied with generously lush black and purple plums. Smooth with lots of layers of flavour and pleasure. Malma translates to “pride” in the native language of Mapuche. Absolutely perfect for gourmet hamburgers or meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2012-2015. 222158 14.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. July 5, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Clos de los Siete 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Black pepper and fleshy black plum aromas on the nose of this blockbuster Argentine red wine, with some cassis and dark spice on a long finish. Layered, complex and deep, like math, but without the work. This red hails from one of Argentina's top producers. This wine benefits from the guidance of the famous consulting winemaker Michele Rolland. Pair this wine with asada (Argentine-style barbecued meats). Wow. Drink: 2013-2018. 622571 14.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
La Posta Estela Armando Bonarda 2017, Mendoza, Argentina: Produced by Laura Cantena, La Posta Estelo Armando 2017 is a great value Bonarda. Intense ruby in the glass with flavours of raspberry, spice and licorice. Taste dry, medium body, light tannin, mouth-watering plus and fruity. Enjoy now and pair with chicken mole. Drink: 2018-2024. 261586 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. February 6, 2020
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Colomé Torrontés 2023, Calchaquí Valley, Salta,, Argentina: Colomé 2023 Torrontés is a great value, vegan-friendly, medium-bodied white wine at $16 from the Calchaqui Valley in Argentina. Produced by the Hess Family, a bright and fragrant Torrontés with wine grapes sourced form their best high-altitude vineyards planted at 1700 to 3100 metres above sea level, it is fresh and floral with mango, apricot, peach, honeysuckle, lemon zest flavours and ginger spice notes with lip-smacking acidity for food. Drink: 2024-2025. 357913 13.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value White Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full Review
Yalumba Y Series Sangiovese Rosé 2009, Barossa, Wrattonbully, South Australia, Australia: Savoury, dry and mouth-watering: love this style! Dried herbs, fresh strawberries. 169425 11.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. June 26, 2010
Full Review
Stella Bella Skuttlebutt Shiraz Cabernet 2009, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: A real palate-grabber! Fleshy black plum, minty aromas in this red wine wonder! Walk down this tunnel of sensory pleasure ... brush your taste buds against the walls of caressing black fruit flavour. Smooth, deep, rich. Madly, truly, deeply. Drink: 2014-2018. 58131 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. April 12, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
d'Arenberg D'arry's Original Shiraz Grenache 2010, Mclaren Vale, Australia: This big Australian red wine is savoury, dark and delicious with chary, toasty oak and black fruit. Full-bodied and smooth with loads of satisfaction. Lip-smacking delicious from one of Australia's most respected producers! Try this with hamburgers and all the fixins. Drink: 2012-2017. 942904 13.90% D 750 mL $17.25 Score: 91/100. October 11, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
McWilliams Wines Semillon 2007, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: The Semillon grapes for this spectacular white wine are sourced from the Mount Pleasant Elizabeth vineyard. There's nothing like Australian Semillon grape-based wines: you must try this one if you haven't sampled their delights previously. Semillon from Australia also differs vastly from Semillon in other regions of the world: here it has a complex beeswax, dry honey and lanolin bouquet and mouth-filling texture. Terrific balancing acidity for a wide range of dishes and a long finish to make you return to this bottle again and again. Pair with pork chops. Drink: 2014-2020. 724492 10.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. November 22, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Wolf Blass Gold Label Chardonnay 2013, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: A rich, round Australian Chardonnay with lovely aromas of green apple, almond and light spices. The palate is mouth-filling and expansive, yet balanced. Finishes with attractive orchard fruit and some smoke. Full-bodied goodness is perfect for roast chicken. Drink: 2014-2019. 399543 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. April 15, 2015
Top Rated White Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Mountadam Chardonnay 2009, High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Beautiful Chardonnay: the Platonic essence of full-bodied, buttery, hazelnut-rich Chardonnay. In a blind tasting, you'd easily mistake this for a top Burgundian Chardonnay. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2013-2017. 333211 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review
Wolf Blass Yellow Label Chardonnay 2014, Padthaway Adelaide Hills, Australia: A staggeringly great value for full-bodied Australian chardonnay. The grapes for this wine are sourced from the cool climate regions of the Padthaway and Adelaide Hills, both southern regions so in this southern hemisphere that means cool climate fruit freshness. This wine is mouth-filling without being hey, and there's some faint buttery notes from 30% malolactic fermentation, but its subtle. Pair with value-priced wine with roast chicken or seafood in a ream sauce. Drink: 2014-2017. 226860 14% D 750 mL $18.00 Score: 89/100. March 4, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Wakefield Winery Chardonnay 2014, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Great value Chardonnay! Full-bodied with green apple and toasty oak aromas. Perfect for roast chicken. Lovely melon and pear notes on the finish of this Australian Chardonnay. Drink: 2014-2018. 711556 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2016
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Sister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, meaty, savoury and mouth-watering. An awesome full-bodied Australian red wine with fleshy dark red and black fruit aromas. Not too heavy, just right. Meaty dishes please. Great price. Finishes with great complexity and concentration of flavour. Pair with spring lamb. Drink: 2014-2018. 360636 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Jacob's Creek Reserve Chardonnay 2017, Adelaide Hills, Australia: Lovely butterscotch and toasted almond on the nose of this full-bodied, luscious, well-priced Australian Chardonnay. Golden apple and white peach on the palate. The higher altitude of the Adelaide Hills makes it a cool climate with a long, slow ripening season that produces crisp white wines. This wine is oak fermented which gives it a toasty note. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2018-2020. 270017 12.50% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. October 13, 2018
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Featherstone Four Feathers 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, medium-bodied Niagara white wine blend of Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Floral, aromatic and off-dry, this is a terrific aperitif or companion to fresh seafood. Finishes with apple blossom. Pair with medium curries and spices as well. Great price. Drink: 2016-2018. 341586 12% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. August 20, 2016
Top Rated White Wine. Venerated Vegetarian Wine Full Review
Tantalus Vineyards Rosé 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC VQA, Canada: A lovely BC rose that's a blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. So fragrant and floral with fleeting notes of small field strawberries. Dry and refreshing. Pair with planked salmon. Drink: 2016-2018. 13.30% XD 750 mL $21.90 Score: 92/100. May 14, 2016
Top Rated Rosé Wine. Full Review
Malivoire Ladybug Rose 2015, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario VQA, Canada: So pretty on the nose with red florals and wild strawberries. Dry and mouth-watering with a summer-fleeting airiness. Pair with grilled veggies or seafood. Drink: 2015-2018. 559088 12.50% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. June 5, 2016
Best Value Rosé Wine. Full Review
Fielding Estate Winery Unoaked Chardonnay 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lively and surprisingly aromatic as often unoaked cool climate chardonnays are fairly subtle. This one is bursting with white peach and green apple. So alive in the glass! Pair with fresh seafood. Drink: 2014-2018. 164491 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 11, 2016
Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review
Featherstone Winery Black Sheep Riesling 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Featherstone's Black Sheep Riesling stands shoulder to shoulder (ear to ear) with the best of Niagara Rieslings. This is one of my favourite Niagara Rieslings: delightful every vintage. The 2014 vintage is no exceptional with lovely bright notes of lime blossom, lemon zest and flint. Pair with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. This Ontario white wine offers great refreshment in the glass. Featherstone's Black Sheep Riesling stands shoulder to shoulder (ear to ear) with the best of Niagara Rieslings. Mouth-watering juiciness with vibrant notes of tropical tree fruit. Off-dry and ready from a range of dishes from glazed ham to chutney. Drink: 2014-2019. 80234 10% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. January 11, 2016
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Creekside Estate Winery Cabernet Rosé 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Fresh field berries on the nose: very enticing. Bold and refreshing with layers of small berry flavours. Dry and mouth-watering. This vivacious rose is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Cabernet Franc grapes, which lends more depth and concentrated flavour of dark field berries and a refreshing finish. Pair with planked salmon. Drink: 2014-2016. 48819 13.30% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 18, 2016
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Cave Spring Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2009, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2013-2018. 256552 13% D 750 mL $18.95. December 6, 2014
Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review
Megalomaniac Local Squeeze White 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Love it! Juicy blend of white wine grapes that has to include the aromatic Riesling (grapes aren't listed on the bottle). Mouth-watering with just the right amount acidity and slight sweetness, beautifully balanced. There isn't a better wine for glazed ham, or medium curries. Drink: 2014-2016. 357418 11.10% M 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. October 16, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Vineland Estates Winery Elevation St. Urban Vineyard Riesling 2021, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Truly one of Niagara’s riesling masters. This incredible white is packed with flavour: bursting at the seams! Yet it’s also incredibly refined and ephemeral. Angel juice. Lots of minerality through the core and a laser-like focus on fruit purity, especially lime and lemon. I love that it's low alcohol yet packed with flavour. A spectacularly vibrant wine that bursts from the glass with lime blossom, lemon zest, white flowers and green apple. Try this lovely white with fresh seafood, shellfish, roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2023-2026. 38117 8.40% M 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. October 14, 2023
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
13th Street Cuvée 13 Rosé, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very pretty, dry and toasty. Lovely notes of field raspberries. One of Canada’s best bubblies. A blend of pinot noir, chardonnay and a dash of syrah. Drink: 2011-2015. 147504 12.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. November 12, 2011
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Featherstone Winery Rosé 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Hello spring-summer day! Rhubarb-strawberry compote, tinge of sweet raspberry, mostly lovely mouth-watering juiciness. Where are the chicken sandwiches and pate? Lovely ballet slipper pink. Finishes crisp and clean. Drink: 2013-2015. 117861 12.50% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. July 5, 2014
Best Value Rosé Wine. Venerated Vegetarian Wine Full Review
Neige Première Ice Cider 2011, Quebec, Canada: Fun! Essence of apple in the glass. A delicious cider of mingled and various types of apples that go into the blend, and finishing with fresh, crisp green apples. Think homemade apple bite with a pleasing and refreshing bite. Pair with fruit cobbler. Drink: 2013-2017. 39305 10% MS 375 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014
Best Value Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 2013, Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada: This lovely honeysuckle, apple blossom pleasure is never cloyingly sweet. It's also just slightly effervescent, enough spritz to make it refreshing and give a zip to your palate. It's a lovely pairing for the Canadian Feta Apetina, which can be crumbled by hand and is divine with virgin olive oil and some herbs. Benjamin Bridge finishes with pretty floral notes and white peaches basking in Annapolis Valley sunshine. Perfect as an after-dinner drink on its own when you don't want anything heavy, or pair it with a fruit-based dessert like fresh peaches and cream. Drink: 2014-2017. 256289 6.50% S 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. August 22, 2015
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Rounded and ripe white peach and pear on the nose and palate of this mouth-filling, balanced Niagara Chardonnay. Green apple emerges mid-palate and there's a long, crisp finish. Drink: 2013-2018. 33936 13.50% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. November 22, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Rosehall Run Defiant Pinot Noir 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2018-2022. 307769 12.30% D 750 mL $18.95. November 8, 2018
Full Review
Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Maipo Valley D.O., Chile: Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva is a great value Cabernet Sauvignon from the Maipo Valley. Savoury with ripe black plums, dark spices and tobacco leaf flavours on the palate, pair this full-bodied earthy Cab with smoky barbequed ribs. Drink: 2007-2015. 18721 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. November 24, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Aconcagua Valley D.O., Chile: Arboleda 2016 is a well-priced single-vineyard, medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with ripe black currant, fresh green herbs on the nose and smooth on the palate. Enjoy now and pair with a grilled steak and sautéed mushrooms. Drink: 2018-2024. 606764 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 24, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full Review
Viña Chocalán Reserva Syrah 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: Rich and full-bodied with attractive aromas and flavours of fleshy black plum and coffee-mocha. Supple and mouth-filling. Amazingly great price. Try it with grilled pork chops. Note the grape name is Syrah, not Shiraz, which is appropriate as this Chilean red has an Old World soul that belongs to the Rhone Valley, but its heart is pure Maipo Valley. Try this wine with a rack of lamb. Drink: 2013-2018. 38513 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. December 6, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Perez Cruz Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: Juicy purple plums and blueberries on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and smooth and mouth-watering. Some dark pepper and more purple-blue fruit notes on the finish. This wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with a splash of Syrah and Carmenere grapes. Some vanilla smoke and dark fruit on the finish. Try it with grilled meats. Drink: 2014-2017. 311753 13.50% XD 375 mL $8.95 Score: 88/100. April 12, 2014
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Amaral Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Leyda Valley, Chile: Unbelievably great quality, taste and freshness for the price. Clean notes of lime and lemon, with a citrus lift on the finish. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the cool-climate Chilean region of the Leyda Valley that borders and is moderated by the Pacific Ocean. Drink: 2014-2016. 367292 13.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. October 25, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Veramonte Reserva Chardonnay 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Cracking great for the money! Full-bodied, blousy, buttery, bootiful Chilean Chardonnay. Layered and luscious. Drink: 2013-2015. 320788 14% XD 750 mL $11.45 Score: 87/100. October 16, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review
Domaine Des Carteresses Tavel Rosé 2015, Rhone A.C., France: Field fresh raspberries greet you on the nose followed by some watermelon and red grapefruit. This is truly liquid refreshment, with a lovely sunset thrown into the glass as extra. This is a wide-ranging and all-embracing rose that will please many people, but especially you. Drink: 2016-2018. 739474 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. May 28, 2016
Top Rated Rosé Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Gassier Sables d'Azur Rosé 2014, Côtes de Provence A.P., France: The southern region of France, Provence, is famous for rosé. It only produces the dry style so it is refreshing and great with a wide range of dishes. Strawberry fields forever! Love it! Light, bone-dry and ultra-refreshing. Transport yourself to Provence in your mind and save the airfare. Perfect as an aperitif or with pate and picnics beside shady rivers. Refreshing French rosé in an iconic curvy bottle from Provence. Serve well chilled. Drink: 2014-2016. 33621 12.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. May 30, 2015
Best Value Rosé Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Château Des Aladères 2012, Corbières, Midi A.C., France: Huge, dense, ripe blackberry and black plum fruit with some liqueur-like richness and smoke. Wonderfully rich and terrific for the price. Full-on palate whacker with the alcohol to boot. Demans brontosaurus burgers. Growl. Drink: 2013-2018. 431726 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Pierre Sparr Reserve Gewurztraminer 2012, Alsace A.C., France: Made by a master! Lovely concentration of lychee, rose petal aromas on the nose that open up on the palate. This Alsatian Gewürztraminer will convince of what you've been missing. Zesty acidity and lovely replays of flavour across the palate. Perfect for Asian dishes and curries. Try it as well as an aperitif chilled. Drink: 2013-2018. 747600 13.50% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Guillaume Aurèle Viognier 2013, Pays D'oc, Midi I.G.P., France: Superb for the money! Floral, fragrant and aromatic but not over the top. White peach blossom and apple bloom. Finishes with stone fruit. Lovely! Drink: 2013-2016. 380741 13.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. August 16, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Gérard Bertrand Réserve Spéciale Viognier 2022, Pays d'Oc, Languedoc I.G.P., France: From the Languedoc wine region, Gérard Bertrand 2022 Viognier is amazing value at $16. Dry, bright and elegant, it is fragrant with white florals and juicy with ripe peach, hazelnut, ginger spice and a mouth-watering finish that ends on a mineral note. Chill and enjoy it with grilled fish and chicken dishes. Drink: 2024-2027. 147975 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. June 8, 2024
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
St. Regis Chardonnay, South of France, France: A lovely, light-bodied, alcohol-free Chardonnay from France. Vibrant fresh peach and pear notes. Perfect for field greens, roast chicken. This dealcoholized wine has only 150 calories per bottle. MD 750 mL $10.99 Score: 89/100. October 11, 2024
Best Value White Wine. Celebrated Chicken and Cream Sauce Wine Full Review
Zacharias Moschofilero 2022, Peloponnese P.G.I., Greece: Zacharias 2022 is a great value Moschofilero from the Peloponnese wine region. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and fragrant with rose petal, crab apple, lemongrass, soft citrus zest, the wine is intense on the palate and matched with vibrant food-friendly acidity perfect for seafood or green salads topped with freshly steamed and chilled shrimp. Drink: 2024-2027. 548222 13.40% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. July 6, 2024
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Royal Tokaji Blue Label 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszu 2008, Hungary: Honeyed greatness with blinding fleshy sweet pure fruit essence. Apricot and peach jam. Tokaji's reputation as the wine of kings is well deserved -- treat yourself to this royally great dessert wine tonight on its own or with biscotti. A long finish. Drink: 2011-2020. 972836 10% S 250 mL $23.95 Score: 94/100. September 13, 2014
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Puklus Pincésze, 3 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2008, Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary: Splendid! Rich apricot, clementine unfolds on the palate enveloped by layers of ripe peach goodness. Supremely great dessert wine! Hungary's Tokaji region is renowned for making the "king of wines" - the sweet wine Tokaji Aszù. The more “Puttonyos,” which range from 3 to 6, the sweeter the wine. This lovely dessert elixir finishes with apricot preserves, pear, and clementine. The acidity and moderate sweetness makes it very balanced and suitable for nuts, cheeses and fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2012-2022. 980805 13.50% MS 500 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. April 12, 2014
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Rocca Delle Macìe Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Terrific price for this DOCG-designated robust red wine. Luxuriously ripe black fruit, dark spice, smoke, tar and toasty oak. What a package! This red wonder has cellar potential but it will give you pleasure tonight. Drink: 2014-2018. 930966 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. May 10, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
Peppoli Antinori Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A smooth, supple medium- to full-bodied red wine with mouth-watering acidity and tart cherry flavours with some earthy notes. This wine needs food like pasta in tomato sauce or spicy Italian sausages -- anything with some acidity and zing itself. Drink: 2013-2016. 606541 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. June 18, 2014
Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Rocca Delle Macìe Chianti Riserva Sangiovese 2005, D.O.C.G. Tuscany, Italy: Vintages Wine Panel: This is an exceptional value for Chianti! The aromas are intense, showing black cherry, dried mixed berries, forest floor, new leather, sweet spices and licorice notes. It’s dry, medium-bodied and very well balanced, with good fruit intensity and hints of pencil shavings leading to a medium-long, toasty finish. Extremely food-friendly, it will make a fine match for roasts, homemade meatballs, meatloaf or gourmet pizzas. My note: Mocha, black cherry goodness. Terrific wine for the money. Rich, warm, smooth layers of blackberry and black plum with a coffee-tinged finish. More New World cabernet than Chianti to me, but heck it’s good wine so let’s not quibble. 111641 13.90% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 90/100. February 28, 2009
Full Review
Assolati Montecucco Sangiovese 2008, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: Blackberry pie aromas yet dry on the palate and mouth-watering. Savoury, juicy and full-bodied. Love it! Brought to us by Loriano Giannetti & Sani Daniela. Drink: 2015-2019. 369405 14.50% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 93/100. March 29, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full Review
Castello di Gabbiano Castle Vineyard Sangiovese 2009, Tuscany, Italy: A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% other red grapes. Smooth and medium- to full-bdoied. Needs food and would be very versatile with a variety of dishes. Drink: 2012-2015. 219808 13% 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. October 27, 2012
Full Review
Salcheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano Sangiovese 2008, D.O.C.G. Tuscany, Italy: A full-bodied, mouth-watering red with enticing aromas and flavours of black tart cherries and cedar. Great partner for a variety of dishes. Love the balance here and the long finish. A terrific example of the dark side of the Sangiovese grape. Drink: 2012-2016. 685180 13.50% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 91/100. October 26, 2013
Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review
Ruffino Ducale Riserva Chianti Classico 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Dried herbs, cedar brush and tart, wild black cherry on this nose of this robust Italian red wine. Ruffino's Chianti Classico Riserva is a dependable bottle year after year. It's aged for 24 months in oak, and oak does not dominate at all. Rather it provides a lovely wisp of smoke on the finish. Pair with a rack of lamb. Drink: 2014-2018. 45195 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. August 15, 2014
Full Review
Tomassi Le Rosse Pinot Grigio 2014, Delle Venezie I.G.T., Italy: A vibrant Italian white wine with mouth-wakening notes of melon and citrus. Tommasi is one of the most respected wine producers in the Veneto region. Pair this refreshing white wine with seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2015-2017. 19953 12% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 28, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Principessa Gavia Vignes Regali Gavi 2015, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Pure lemon sunshine in this zesty Italian white wine from Vigne Regali (Gavi)! Finishes crisply with notes of chives and lemon. The ancient story says that the Principessa Gavia, daughter of the King of the Franks, had a village and a wine named after her. Clean, crisp and refreshing with terrific mouth-watering acidity for seafood and salads. Medium-bodied layers of pleasure in this DOCG wine. This would also be a great aperitif. Produced by Vigne Regali Banfi, this Italian white wine is made from the local Cortese grape and offers lots of refreshment. Lots of minerality and acidity. Drink: 2016-2019. 250696 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. October 1, 2016
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Fattoi Brunello Di Montalcino 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Black and brooding as Heathcliffe on the moor (can’t think of the Italian equivalent just now, sorry). Plush, opulent layers of black plum, blackberry and smoke. Long and satisfying. Finishes with wild truffle, violets, black cherry and cigar box. Pair with truffled risotto. Drink: 2014-2020. 33498 14.50% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. February 7, 2015
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Principessa Gavia Gavi Vigne Regali 2013, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Pure lemon sunshine in this zesty Italian white wine from Vigne Regali (Gavi)! Clean, crisp and refreshing with terrific mouth-watering acidity for seafood and salads. Medium-bodied layers of pleasure in this DOCG wine. This would also be a great aperitif. Finishes crisply with notes of chives and lemon. Drink: 2014-2017. 250696 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 22, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full Review
Monkey Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, New Zealand: Crisp and clean with lively notes of lime-citrus and white grapefruit. Not overly grassy. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2014-2016. 620062 11.50% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 15, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full Review
Beyra Vinhos De Altitude 2012, Beiras Interior D.O., Portugal: This light-bodied, slightly floral white wine doesn't have a lot of acidity yet it's refreshing. The vines grow in schist and gravel soils, and there a core of minerality here. The vineyards are in the heart of the Douro River Valley. Quite lovely, especially for the price. Drink: 2013-2015. 380824 12% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 16, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review
Quinta De Pancas Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Vinho Regional Lisboa, Portugal: Elegant, balanced, restrained Spanish Cabernet that comes off with as much finesse as Bordeaux at a fraction of the price. Tastes mature too, which is a bonus. Drink: 2014-2018. 380568 13.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. September 13, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Pegos Claros 2010, Palmela D.O.C., Portugal: OMG, this is delicious! Full-bodied, juicy, smooth, with black and purple plum liqueur and fleshy blueberries. You can't beat the price here. Great party wine when the party involves hearty meat dishes. Stock up! Drink: 2013-2018. 385252 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. September 13, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
Guadalupe 2011, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal: A robust Portuguese red wine that's deeply concentrated and smoky with attractive charred black fruit. Finishes with smoky black raspberry. Paired with grilled red meats. Drink: 2014-2017. 336313 13.50% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 30, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine Full Review
Pedra Cancela Dao Selecao Do Enologo 2016, Dao, Portugal 14438 13.50% XD 750 mL $13.95. January 1, 2014
Full Review
Quinta De Cabriz Seleccionada Colheita 2011, Dão D.O.C., Portugal: This robust Portuguese red wine is smoky with black fruit aromas and flavours. Full-bodied and delicious. Perfect for parties and hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013-2017. 247973 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. October 25, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Morgadio Da Torre Alvarinho 2013, Monção E Melgaço, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: This Vinho Verde is a crisp white wine from Sogrape Vinhos that is green melon fresh and mouth-watering: loaded with personality. Great aperitif or companion to shellfish. This lively white really highlights the refreshing nature of the Alvarinho grape, which is known in Spain as Albariño. Vibrant notes of lime-citrus course through the glass with a lovely silver seam of acidity to keep things interesting, especially with seafood. Finishes with stonefruit and white grapefruit notes. Terrific minerality. Drink: 2013-2016. 960955 12.50% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. February 21, 2015
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Delaforce Real Companhia Velha Touriga Nacional 2012, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: A full-bodied, generous Portuguese red wine with mocha and toasty oak on the nose. Black plum and raspberry with dark spices on the mid-palate and finish. Long finish on this D.O.C. wine. There's been a revolution in dry red wines from Portugal: try this one and you'll know what I'm talking about. This particular wine hails from a well-known producer of port, the fortified dessert wine. Drink: 2014-2018. 324517 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. February 21, 2015
Top Rated Red Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Convento De Tomar Reserva 2011, Do Tejo D.O.C., Portugal: Black, smoky and brooding, this full-bodied Portuguese red wine packs a punch. Almost smooth, though it could benefit from 1 hour decanting. Aromas of black charred fruit, tar, smoke and oak. This wine is aged in both French and American oak barrels. Drink: 2012-2017. 404434 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. March 7, 2015
Best Beef Wine Full Review
Cdv Brazão Colheita Seleccionada Arinto 2013, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: Crisp and clean with lime zest and white grapefruit aromas and flavours. Mouth-watering acidity for seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2013-2016. 405217 12.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. April 4, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Montefino Reserva Tinto 2005, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal: A mature Spanish red wine that's almost past peak with dried fruit and ferrous-iron aromas. Full-bodied and smooth; more bones than flesh. This wine was aged in oak barrels for 12 months. There were 56,000 bottles produced. Pair with a t-bone steak. Drink: 2013-2017. 165159 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. February 7, 2015
Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Quinta Dos Carvalhais Colheita Vinho Tinto 2009, Dão D.A.O., Portugal: A full-bodied Portuguese red wine with aromas of black fruit, tar and smoke produced by Sogrape Vinhos. Toasty oak but not too much. Finishes with prune, blackberry, mocha and dried tobacco leaves. This robust red wine blend of mostly the native Touriga Nacional grape. Although the Vintages Catalogue notes the 2010 vintage, we tasted 2009. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with a rare steak. Drink: 2014-2017. 13474 13.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. February 7, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Quinta Do Roncão Reserva 2012, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: An opulent, robust red wine brought to us by Maria Manuela, with dollops of fleshy dark cherries, raisins and hickory smoke. Some dark spices on the finish. Terrific! This is a Portuguese red wine blend of 50% Touriga Franca, 30% Tinta Roriz, and 20% Touriga Nacional grapes. Finishes with dark spices. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013-2017. 147942 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. February 7, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Blissful Blue Cheese Wine Full Review
Jp Azeitão Castelao Aragonez Syrah 2017, Setubal, Portugal: A robust, supple Portuguese red wine blend of Syrah, Castelao and Aragonez grapes. Great price! Aromas of dark plums and toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2018-2021. 286195 13.50% XD 750 mL $9.35 Score: 86/100. October 13, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
Medeiros Rosé 2021, Alentejo, Portugal: From Alentejo, Medeiros 2021 is a bright, medium-bodied rosé made from Touriga Nacional, Syrah and Aragonez wine grapes. Fresh on the nose with bright cherry, strawberry, raspberry, soft citrus aromas and flavours generous and mouth-watering on the palate. Excellent value at $14, this rosé is lovely and lively with a promise of spring! Chill and enjoy with seared tuna steaks. Drink: 2022-2023. 451385 12.50% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. April 1, 2022
Best Value Rosé Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review
Neil Ellis Wines Groenekloof Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Groenekloof, Darling W.O., South Africa: Neil Ellis Groenekloof 2017 is a medium-bodied, vibrant Sauvignon Blanc with stony, green herb and peppery spice flavours on the palate. Made for food! Pair with an asparagus, artichoke and goat cheese galette, this Darling wine region SB can handle it. Big acidity on the palate is perfect for your toughest-to-pair- dishes involving asparagus or artichoke. Drink: 2018-2020. 673913 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 24, 2018
Best Value White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review
Boschendal The Pavillion Chenin Blanc Viognier 2017, Western Cape, South Africa: I love South African Chenin Blanc, and this is no exception! Aromas of lemon, lanolin, beeswax and chives. Medium-bodied with rich mouth-feel. Perfect for roast chicken. Drink: 2018-2021. 281311 12.50% XD 750 mL $11.35 Score: 89/100. October 13, 2018
Best Value White Wine. Full Review
Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc 2015, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: This is a great example South African Chenin Blanc with seductive aromas of Asian pear and something I can only describe as black apricot. Oak imparts baked bread and wraps this wine beautifully. Baking spices on the finish of this exotically wonderful wine. Pair with mild curries. Drink: 2015-2019. 675421 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2016
Best Value White Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full Review
Porcupine Ridge Boekenhoutskloof Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Grassy, herbal refreshment with a medium-bodied weight. Stunningly great price. South Africa does so well with Sauvignon Blanc, and it shows in this wine. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Pair with vegetarian dishes, seafood and grilled portobello mushroom. Drink: 2014-2016. 126797 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 24, 2015
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Thelema Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Stellenbosch Elgin W.O., South Africa: Incredible price! Herbal, lime and grassy good. Very refreshing. Wonderful quaffer. This South African Sauvignon Blanc shows its roots in the cool climate of the Elgin region. Finishes with a whiff of ocean spray and terrific minerality. Try it with fresh oysters. Drink: 2013-2015. 446384 13% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. August 16, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full Review
Mulderbosch Faithful Hound Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot Malbec Cabernet Franc 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: The 2011 vintage was a spectacular one for this winery. In particular, the Faithful Hound red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc grapes is greatly benefiting from Mulderbosch's new, dynamic winemaker, Adam Mason. As well, there's a new owner, American Charles Banks, and together they are creating a tremendous amount of energy, vision and great wine together. The Faithful Hound offers enticing aromas of black, smoky fruit and a savoury, mouth-watering core. Some cedar notes in the background and on the finish. Perfect for prime rib or a rare steak. Decant for 1 hour. Highly recommended. Drink: 2013-2019. 922443 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Muga Rosé 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Robust dry Spanish rose from one of the country's best-known producers. Aromas of tart strawberries and other red berries and some spice. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2013-2015. 603795 13% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 89/100. August 16, 2014
Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Bonterra Zinfandel 2011, Mendocino County, California, United States: This Californian Zinfandel is made from organic grapes and the winery practises sustainable viticulture, but that's not its main selling point - flavour is! Big, juicy black fruit wrapped lovingly in a warm blanket of toasty oak. This wine would make even cold pizza (topped with free range chicken of course) taste good. Drink: 2014-2018. 530139 14.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. July 5, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Outstanding Organic Wine Full Review
Beaulieu Vineyard BV Coastal Estates Sauvignon Blanc 2012, California, United States: A zesty, vibrant white wine with come-alive aromas of grapefruit and lime. Great as an aperitif or pair it with shellfish or chevre. Drink: 2013-2016. 295253 13.50% MD 750 mL $10.95 Score: 87/100. August 15, 2014
Best Value White Wine. Great Goat Cheese Wine Full Review
St. Francis Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: Buttery and balanced white wine, with full-bodied goodness. Nice price for classic Californian chardonnay. Aromas of fleshy white peach and toasty oak. Finishes nicely with ripe apricot and butterscotch. Try this chard with roast turkey. Drink: 2013-2018. 317131 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated White Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Sterling Vineyards Vintner's Collection Merlot 2013, California, United States: Fleshy ripe plums and blackberries. Juicy, layered and full-bodied. Perfect for grilled lamb or pork chops. Drink: 2014-2018. 622837 13.50% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. December 3, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Lone Birch Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: A gorgeous Washington State red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the warm region of the Yakima Valley. This winery is named after a lone birch tree that grows in the vineyard that's more than 70 years old. It was planted in the 1940s by H. Lloyd Miller, founder of the estate. The 2016 vintage features aromas of smoky black plums and berries with dried tobacco leaves and herbs. Great structure for cellar aging. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018-2025. 446971 14.10% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 24, 2018
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review