Wolf Blass Yellow Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Langhorne Creek McLaren Vale, Australia: Wolf Blass first made 250 cases of the Grey Label Shiraz, but realized he could not earn a living based on such a small production of a premium-priced wine. Thus was born Yellow Label in 1966. It was created to be a crowd pleaser with the goal of quality, character and consistency, according to current winemaker Chris Matcher. Consistency is key as Yellow Label is designed to give consumers confidence that they are getting the same signature taste each time. That was the challenge to maintain when Yellow Label moved to regional selection of grapes for this vintage rather than widespread blending. Chris says that they achieve it through careful vineyard management and barrel selection. This Cabernet offers great value and attractive aromas of blackcurrant and cassis. Pair with a juicy steak. Drink: 2016-2021. 251876 13.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 8, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review
La Fiole Brotte 2014, Cotes Du Rhone, France: Deliciously spicy and smoky on the nose and palate. This full-bodied, southern French red wine from the Rhone Valley over-delivers on value and taste. The oddly shaped bottle evokes the twisted vines from the strong Mistral wind that blows through the vineyards keeping the grapes dry until harvest.This is a blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes aged in French oak tanks for 6 months. Decant 1 hour and pair with a juicy steak. Drink: 2014-2019. 293498 14% D 750 mL $15.05 Score: 88/100. August 27, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Miguel Torres Coronas Tempranillo 2013, Catalunya, Spain: Round, supple, generous and juicy Spanish red wine made from the Tempranillo grape. Aromas of dark red berries and spice. Pair with smoked meats. Drink: 2014-2018. 29728 13% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. June 16, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
El Guardian Crianza Tempranillo 2012, Rioja D.O.C., Spain: A pleasant, full-bodied Spanish red wine with lots of acidity on the palate, black fruit and oak. The bird featured on the label is one often found in Rioja vineyards. It eats the bees and insects that eats the vine grapes so they call it the Guardian. Pair this wine with game birds ;)
Drink: 2014-2018. 429670 12.50% XD 750 mL $14.10 Score: 86/100. November 9, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Castillo De Monseran Old Vine Garnacha 2011, Carinena, Aragon, Spain: Dry and savoury with mouth-watering acidity for lamb and meat sauces. Earthy with leather notes. Dried herbs and spice on the finish. Drink: 2014-2018. 375055 14.50% D 750 mL $13.99 Score: 88/100. September 28, 2016
Best Value Red Wine. Full Review