Trius Winery at Hillebrand Vidal Icewine 2012, Niagara, Ontario: A stunningly rich and satisfying icewine with notes of peach, pear and apricot preserves. Perfect with a fruit flan or cobbler. Drink: 2013-2019. 137687 10% S 375 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. January 4, 2014
Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz Viognier 2012, Victoria, Australia: Lots of attractive black pepper and dark fruit on the nose. This full-bodied, juicy red derives a lift in the mid-palate from the splash of viognier in the blend. It delivers hedonistic pleasure and ripe, fleshy layers of black plums and blackberries. This would be a superb gift wine, but why wait for a special occasion? Cote Rotie in inspiration but pure Australian at heart. Pair with a rack of lamb, or kangaroo burger. Drink: 2014-2019. 18887 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Netzl Classic Grüner Veltliner 2015, Niederösterreich, Austria: Produced by Franz & Christine Netzl. Aromas of grapefruit and lime zest. The gruner veltliner grapes for this vibrant Austrian white wine are grown in the winery's estate vineyards of Rothenberg, Plutzer and Hagelsberg. Lots of racy acidity for fresh seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2016-2019. 12.50% XD 750 mL $21.00 Score: 93/100. January 26, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Nikolaihof Wachau Terrassen Grüner Veltliner 2017, Wachau, Austria: A lovely yeasty, freshly baked bread note on the nose of this vibrant, beautifully balanced Austrian white wine made from the country's iconic Gruner Veltliner grape. Fresh, racy acidity to take on seafood and shellfish as well as vegetarian dishes. This wine is Demeter certified, and is made using biodynamic farming principles which go well beyond organic methods to respect the earth and the people making this wine. Highly recommended. Drink: 2019-2029. 85274 11.50% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. January 12, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Pinot Gris 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC VQA, Canada: Flavourful and viscous: this is no boring-beige Pinot Gris! Mouth-filling texture is what comes across most in this gorgeous white wine. The Pinot Gris is 60% fermented and aged in stainless steel, and the remaining 40% fermented and aged in two and three year old French oak barrels for 6 months. What a deft touch that wraps this package in richness. Drink: 2017-2020. 329458 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. January 10, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Cool Creamy Cheese Wine Full Review
Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Baco Noir 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Simply stunning. There's nothing like it. Words fail. Full-bodied, juicy, smooth, complex and concentrated with fleshy ripe black plum and savoury meaty notes. Pair with more of the same wine. Forget food. Drink: 2016-2021. 461699 13.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. February 18, 2017
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Two Sisters Vineyards Icewine Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Splendid Niagara icewine in all dimensions, and most importantly, pure hedonistic pleasure. Aromas of red berries and spice. Smooth tannins. Pair with dark chocolate. Yum. Drink: 2016-2022. 13% D 750 mL $48.00 Score: 93/100. January 9, 2017
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Flat Rock Gravity Pinot Noir 2014, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: I've long been a fan of Flat Rock's Pinot Noirs, especially the Gravity which I think is even stronger in 2014 over last year. Aromas of fleshy cherry yet it's balanced with racy acidity. The winery uses the gentlest methods to press the grapes and make the wine via a gravity flow system rather than pumping (thus the name gravity on the label). Then the wine was aged in French oak barrels for 18 months. Medium ruby hue with cherry accents, polished tannins, silky smooth texture and medium bodied weight. Gorgeous cherry-berry aromas and flavours on the mid-palate. Then it finishes with wisps of black raspberry and vanilla toast. This red wine is so vibrant and so fantastically great year after year. Try it with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2014-2020. 1560 13% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. May 13, 2019
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The Hatch Hobo Series Cabernet Franc 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC VQA, Canada: A seriously good and medium-bodied BC Cabernet Franc with none of that bell pepper nonsense. Dark red berries and smoke on the nose and palate. Racy acidity. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2016-2021. 854323 12.80% D 750 mL Score: 90/100. July 7, 2017
Full Review
The Hatch Dynasty Red 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC VQA, Canada: Flippin' gorgeous! This towering BC red wine comes in a very squat bottle... but let it out in your glass and it grows like a magical beanstalk of flavour to the sky. Aromas of black fruit and wonderment. Pair with rare steak and company. Decant 2 hours. Drink: 2016-2028. 664987 14.50% D 750 mL $39.99 Score: 93/100. July 7, 2017
Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review
Trail Estate Winery Single Barrel Reserve Pinot Noir 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This gorgeous Prince Edward County Pinot Noir offers aromas of fresh earth, violets and dark cherry. Complex and balanced with a long finish. Pair with grilled chicken. Drink: 2015-2021. 13.50% XD 750 mL $35.00 Score: 93/100. April 22, 2016
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Trail Estate Winery Riesling 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2015-2018. 13.50% XD 750 mL $20.00. April 22, 2016
Full Review
Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Cabernet Merlot 2010, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, luscious has everything wine. Aromas of dark plums and black spice. So everything: want it now please. Pair with fine cuts of meat. Drink: 2016-2023. 616433 14% D 750 mL $47.95 Score: 94/100. November 26, 2016
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Megalomaniac Bubblehead Rosé Sparkling Wine, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cranberry and raspberry from the Pinot Noir base of this Niagara bubbly. A hint of sweetness. Pair with fried fish. Drink: 2015-2018. 363655 13% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 89/100. November 24, 2018
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Inniskillin Niagara Estate Commemorative Edition Vidal Icewine 2006, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Vintages Wine Panel: This delicious Icewine was crafted in commemoration of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and a portion of proceeds from every bottle sold will support our Canadian Olympic athletes and the Games. The unique label was commissioned from Canadian artist Gordon Halloran, who uses ice as his canvas to make beautiful abstract works. Definitely a collectible, this is also a sophisticated and impeccably balanced Icewine for those who like to bring home the gold and savor it in a glass. My note: Redolent of ripe peaches, pears, apricot and honeysuckle. Unctuous layers of flavor with a tangerine-tinged finish. 87775 10% S 375 mL $59.95 Score: 95/100. October 16, 2010
Favourite Dessert Wine. Full Review
Vineland Estates Winery St. Urban Riesling 2007, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario VQA, Canada: Tart and lovely! It’s a wake-up call for your mouth and needs food. Gorgeous aromas of lime, white peach, grapefruit and summer days. Let this wine have its way with you. Drink: 2008-2018. 38117 8.40% D 750 mL $20.00 Score: 91/100. January 11, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Full Review
Stratus Cabernet Icewine 2008, Ontario, Canada: Superb! Strawberry rhubarb aromas with a gorgeous depth and complexity. This wine is a blend of cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and syrah. Lovely long finish. What a treat! Drink: 2010-2018. 56689 13% S 375 mL Score: 96/100. January 3, 2012
Full Review
Jackson-Triggs Proprietors' Grand Reserve Gewurztraminer Icewine 2007, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Canada: A terrific dessert wine that will cap a wonderful meal. Redolent of ripe apricot, peach and pear preserves. Lovely honey-infused finish. Bring it on! Drink: 2011-2020. 593954 12.50% S 750 mL $64.95 Score: 93/100. June 6, 2011
Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Jackson-Triggs Reserve Vidal Icewine 2007, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario VQA, Canada: Concentrated aromas of baked pears, honey and orange marmalade. Luscious texture that unfurls over the palate. A gorgeous elixir of apricots, honeysuckle and peach perserves. Lovely balance and extraordinary length and persistence of flavours. Treat yourself to this dessert wine soon. Drink: 2012-2021. 389411 11% S 375 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. July 7, 2012
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Cave Spring Reisling Icewine 2008, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: One of Canada's top wine producers, especially when it comes to Riesling, both dry and dessert style. This lovely dessert wine offers aromas an flavours of apricot and peach, Beautifully balanced. Drink: 2013-2019. 576033 10% S 375 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. September 12, 2013
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Henry of Pelham Cuvée Catharine Rosé Brut, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous rose with lovely notes of field strawberries. Toasty, refreshing, crisp and dry. Ever so festive with its pale pink hue. Cheers! 217505 12% D 750 mL $32.95 Score: 92/100. February 6, 2017
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Full Review
Reif Estate Winery Riesling 2009, Niagara River, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Superb! Aromas of honeyed apricots, tangerine zest and marmalade. Yet there's also a lovely seam of acidity that silver-snakes its way through this wine and maintains a nervy, exciting balance. Drink: 2012-2020. 111799 12% S 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. January 3, 2012
Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Jackson-Triggs Proprietors' Grand Reserve Gewürztraminer Icewine 2007, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: This bold Icewine deserves a full-flavoured, sweet dessert. A terrific dessert wine that will cap a wonderful meal. Redolent of ripe apricot, peach and pear preserves. Lovely honey-infused finish. Bring it on! Food matches: serve slightly chilled on its own, with rich pâtés, fresh fruit, rich (but not overly sweet) desserts or a selection of fine cheeses. Drink: 2011-2020. 193326 10% S 200 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. November 24, 2012
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Stratus Riesling Icewine 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Some kind of gorgeous. Platonic ideal of peach preserves and honeysuckle with drizzled honey. Just drink. Drink: 2012-2020. 56671 12.50% S 200 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. November 24, 2012
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Full Review
Stratus Red Icewine 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada: Superb! Strawberry rhubarb aromas with a gorgeous depth and complexity. This wine is a blend of cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and syrah. Lovely long finish. What a treat! 56689 12% S 200 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. September 12, 2013
Full Review
Peller Estates Oak Aged Vidal Icewine 2012, Niagara, Ontario, Canada: Superb richness and layers in this icewines from the oak aging. It's like wrapping apricot in vanilla spice. The luscious mouth-filling intensity of flavour finishes with lemon drops and clementines. Drink: 2013-2019. 12% S 375 mL $60.20 Score: 93/100. December 7, 2013
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
Henry of Pelham Reserve Baco Noir 2012, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Henry of Pelham does Baco Noir right: this is best of class. Brooding aromas of black and purple plum, blackberries and blueberries wrapped in smoke. Supple and full-bodied. The 2012 vintage was another strong one for Ontario producers, and especially this winery. Could this be the ultimate hamburger wine? I think so as this wine won the beef category for The Great Canadian Wine Match people's choice awards this year. Well-structured with a solid finish. Try it tonight. Drink: 2014-2018. 461699 13.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 15, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Featherstone Winery Black Sheep Riesling 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is one of my favourite Niagara Rieslings: delightful every vintage. The 2013 vintage is no exceptional with lovely bright notes of lime blossom, lemon zest and flint. It's also my pick to pair with Canadian creamy cheeses like Little Qualicum Cheeseworks Island Brie, a small producer tucked into the base of Mt. Arrowsmith on Vancouver Island, BC. The wine has the zesty acidity to cut right through the creaminess of the cheese. Also pair with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013-2018. 80234 10% M 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. January 24, 2015
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Cave Spring Cellars Icewine Riesling 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cave Spring is Niagara's master producer of Riesling, whether it's the dry table style or the dessert version like this icewine. Aromas of fresh apricot, honey and peach preserves. Pair with apple cobbler. Drink: 2014-2025. 447441 11.50% S 375 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. November 22, 2014
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
PondView Estate Winery Icewine Vidal 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely Ontario dessert wine made from the Vidal grape. This icewine offers aromas of honey and peach pie. Pair with fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2013-2018. 390351 11% S 200 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 22, 2014
Best Value Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Quails' Gate Estate Winery Merlot 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Big, and chalky-dry with black fruit aromas and flavours. There's a fairly robust tannic grip on the mid-palate so decant 2 hours. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2015-2019. 639633 14.50% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. November 22, 2014
Plush Pork Wine Full Review
Featherstone Winery Select Late Harvest Cabernet Franc 2011, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely cinnamon-sprinkled apple pie with sweet fleshy strawberries. A terrific dessert wine that's neither too sweet, nor too alcoholic. Drink: 2012-2018. 210757 11.50% S 375 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. February 7, 2015
Best Value Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Jackson-Triggs Delaine Vineyard Cabernet Merlot 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is the top single vineyard site red wine from the Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate. The Niagara River sub-appellation produces a terrific, full-bodied red with accented red and dark berries, plums and richly ripe cassis and currants. Beautifully structured with excellent balance, weight, depth and length on the finish. A spice-rich and lingering finish. This is a good cellar candidate. When you open, decant for 1-2 hours. Pair with better cuts of steak. Drink: 2014-2019. 989269 13.70% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 6, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Domaine Labranche Fire Cider 2013, Eastern Townships, Canada: A juicy, luscious mouth-watering dessert cider with glorious aromas of red and golden apples. Flavours are concentrated by the heat of the estate's maple syrup pans. Serve chilled at 6-8 degress C. Gorgeous on its own or with maple glazed salmon. Drink: 2013-2019. 12% S 375 mL Score: 90/100. December 31, 2015
Best Value Dessert Wine. Full Review
San Pedro 1865 Carmenere 2011, Maule Valley, Chile: Wow, this single vineyard Carmenere rocks! Carmenere is arguably the flagship red wine of Chile. It has it all: concentrated, rich black fruit flavours and depth, yet it's supple and smooth with a long finish. Velvet on the palate, lingering in the mind. This robust red wine finishes with notes of cassis and dried tobacco. Great balance and depth. Try it with a rack of lamb tonight. Highly recommended. Drink: 2012-2017. 249201 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 11, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full Review
Concha y Toro Reserva 2012, Maipo Valley, Chile: Concha Y Toro produces this robust red wine of extraordinary value/taste for the money! Mocha and dark chocolate aromas wrap themselves seductively around a core of fleshy blackberry fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. This wine is a blend of three grapes, thus “Trio”, including Cabernet Sauvignon (70% of the blend), Shiraz and Cabernet Franc. Finishes with some lovely cassis and pepper notes. Perfect party wine! Try it with combination pizza. Drink: 2013-2017. 433912 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. December 6, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
1865 Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Maipo Valley, Chile: Love it! Superb complexity, depth and heft for the money. Each of the wines for the San Pedro line comes from its own selected vineyard planted with a specific variety, in this case fleshy ripe Cabernet Sauvignon that's surprisingly aromatic. Notes of blackberry and cassis. Finishes with mocha and dark spice. The grapes are grown in the Alto Maipo Valley in high altitude vineyards planted 40 years ago in clay loam soils on an alluvial terrace with cobblestone 50 centimetres (20 inches) below the surface to create excellent drainage and superbly concentrated wine. Drink: 2014-2018. 37911 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. July 19, 2014
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Vina Cono Sur 20 Barrels Limited Edition Pinot Noir 2016, Casablanca Valley, Chile, Chile: Luscious and full-bodied Chilean Pinot Noir, with terrific depth of flavour and length on the finish. This is New World style all the way: fleshy ripe black cherries dance across your palate and play with your senses. Fabulous dinner party or gift wine that will appeal to many people. Try it with grilled chicken or planked salmon tonight. This wine has won the International Wine Challenge's Trophy for Chilean Pinot Noir and the Trophy for Chilean Red for previous vintages. Drink: 2018-2024. 957836 14% XD 750 mL $34.30 Score: 93/100. January 12, 2017
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E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2012, Cotes du Rhone, France: A superb southern French red wine from the Rhone Valley with gorgeous aromas of black cherry and cigar box. Guigal is one of the most respected winemakers in the region, and indeed, in the country. Full-bodied yet supple and smooth. Pair with grilled meats. Wow for the price. Drink: 2015-2020. 259721 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. January 11, 2017
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Domaine du Grapillon d'Or 2015, Gigondas, Rhône A.C., France: This is black liquid velvet; so tantalizing to the tongue and senses. Gigondas is my go-to region on a restaurant list. There are 35 acres planted for this wine that produces 50,000 bottles a year. The average age of the vines is 40 years, which imparts incredible depth and complexity of flavour in the wine. The grapes are hand-picked and selected. Bursting with aromas and flavours of fleshy dark fruit, dark spices, dried herbs and garrigue. This wine is unfiltered. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2018-2025. 981787 14.50% XD 750 mL $36.95 Score: 94/100. March 2, 2018
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
Alsace Willm Réserve Riesling 2015, Alsace, France: Fresh and crisp with lemon zest. Medium-bodied with good acidity. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2017-2020. 11452 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. January 8, 2017
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Pierre Sparr Rosé Crémant D'alsace, Alsace A.C., France: Superb quality and taste for the price of this French rosé sparkling wine! Toasty with some field raspberry notes. Bone-dry and refreshing. Here's your summer party rosé bubbly. Bring it on! A terrific producer and well-known in Alsace and around the world. Pair with grilled fish. Drink: 2014-2017. 39016 12.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. June 13, 2015
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Complete Cheese Pizza Wine Full Review
Maximin Grünhäuser Abtsberg Riesling Spätlese 2014, Mosel, Pradikätswein, Germany: A gorgeous sweet German Riesling with aromas of apricot and peach pie. Pair with fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2017-2023. 481374 8% M 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. February 9, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Calm Curry Wine Full Review
Cavino Grande Reserve 2007, Nemea P.D.O., Greece: Attractive tart cherry, dry earth and dried herbs on the nose and palate of this balanced, full-bodied and supple wine. Decant 1 hour. Very nice. Drink: 2013-2017. 295618 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. October 3, 2015
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review
Puklus Cellar 3 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszu 2012, 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: 2016-2020. 980805 13.50% S 500 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. December 30, 2016
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full Review
Cusumano Nero D'avola 2015, Sicily, Italy: 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. An exceptional wine for the money! 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. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2015-2019. 143164 14% XD 750 mL $12.95 Score: 90/100. January 11, 2017
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Cusumano Noà 2011, Sicily I.G.T., Italy: Exceptional value and quality in this southern Italian red wine for the price! This full-bodied Sicilian red is smooth with mocha richness and brooding black plums slipping in underneath. Dark spice and smoke on a long finish. Terrific structure and balance. Demands hearty meat dishes and your full commitment. This wine is a blend of 40% Nero d'Avola, 30% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Nero d'Avola is the flagship red wine of Sicily: try it tonight with hamburgers. There were 175 cases of this wine produced for this vintage. Drink: 2013-2017. 109512 12.50% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. November 22, 2014
Top Rated Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full Review
Tommasi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2010, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: Smoky and dark yet elegant in a muscular way. This brooding Italian red wine offers black fruit aromas and smoke on the nose. Underneath and on the palate there's a sensual layer of black fleshy ripe fruit and dark spices. Oh yes! Drink: 2015-2023. 356220 15% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 95/100. November 22, 2014
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Santa Margherita Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: White melon and white peach aromas and flavours on this crisp Italian sparkling wine, with good acidity and yet also a creamy softness. Pair with soft cheeses. Drink: 2022-2024. 687582 11.50% MD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. September 9, 2022
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Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Superiore 2010, Veneto D.O.C., Italy 479766 13.50% D 750 mL $24.95. March 13, 2014
Full Review
Villa Maria Private Bin Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, New Zealand: This is just the third year that Villa Maria has produced this delightful, lightly sparkling wine. It's an interesting (and delicious) take on Sauvignon Blanc, for which New Zealand is famous. Tropical fruit and melon on the nose and palate. If you love moscato, try this wine. The bubbles don't dry out on the finish, yet it's refreshing. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to seafood. Drink: 2015-2017. 429969 12.50% M 750 mL $69.50 Score: 89/100. February 18, 2017
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé, Marlborough, New Zealand: A lovely persistence of tiny bubbles beading along the sides of the glass in this toasty New Zealand sparkling wine. Aromas of citrus spice and strawberry flan. The chardonnay grapes in this blend come from Hawkes Bay region, while pinot noir grapes hail from Marlborough. Lovely persistence of flavours and bubbles. Crisp, clean finish. A solid value for a sparkling wine: crisp, clean and fresh. Try with fried fish, potato chips, roast turkey and New Year's resolutions. Stock up now for the holidays! 280172 12% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. August 10, 2024
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Amisfield Pinot Noir 2011, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Ripe, fleshy cherries and raspberries wrapped in toasty oak on this New Zealand red wine. Medium- to full-bodied, plush and smooth. This is liquid satin for the senses. Don't wait for a special occasion though, drink it with dinner tonight and it will become a special occasion. Pair this New Zealand Pinot Noir with salmon or tuna. Drink: 2012-2019. 179754 14% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 93/100. March 21, 2015
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Amisfield Pinot Noir 2015, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Amisfield 2015 is a silky Pinot Noir with savoury herb, strawberry, raspberry, rhubarb and vanilla spice flavours on the palate. Plushy and smooth with fine, soft tannins. Enjoy now with grilled salmon steaks. The Amisfield Vineyard is located on the 45th parallel at the foot of the Pisa Mountain Range in New Zealand's Central Otago. Vines are planted in glacial schist soils. Drink: 2019-2022. 179754 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. February 27, 2019
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Cloudy Bay Chardonnay 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Toasted almond and hazelnut on the nose, with green apple vibrancy, gorgeous balance. I thought I loved this winery's Sauvignon Blanc best but now it's a toss up. Try this with pork tenderloin. Drink: 2016-2020. 359513 14% XD 750 mL $40.95 Score: 93/100. November 11, 2017
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review
Aveleda Vinho Verde 2015, Vinho Verde, Portugal: Ultra-crisp and refreshing Portuguese white wine made from the zingy, vibrant Vinho Verde grape. Green apple racy acidity for fresh seafood and shellfish. Light-bodied. Great value. Drink: 2015-2017. 5322 9.50% XD 750 mL $15.00 Score: 89/100. April 27, 2017
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
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Miguel Torres Coronas Tempranillo 2011, Catalunya, Spain: Wow, what an amazing wine for the price! Juicy, full-bodied, mouth-filling with layers of delicious fleshy dark fruit and some smoke. Great depth and length. Tempranillo is such an amazing grape with done in this style of Spanish wine. Drink: 2013-2018. 29728 13% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. November 15, 2014
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Torres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Penedès, Spain: What a magnificently balanced, structured and sculpted Spanish Cabernet! The grapes for this lusciously ripe Spanish Cabernet Sauvignon grow on vines planted on the belvedere of the Mas la Palana estate. Aromas of blackberry jam, dark spice and some pepper. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2014-2020. 36483 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 11, 2017
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Muga Selección Especial 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Complex, rich, balanced, powerful and concentrated: this robust Spanish red really does have it all. Great price-quality ratio too. Try it with Kobe beef. Drink: 2015-2022. 472902 13% XD 750 mL $58.00 Score: 93/100. March 19, 2016
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review
H3 Columbia Crest Merlot 2014, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: The difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures in this eastern Washington state wine region is the reason why Merlots like this one are terrific. In October, during the last weeks of the key ripening season before harvest the nighttime temperature can plummet from 35 degrees in the day to just 20 degrees at night which allows for ripening during the day but then the grapes stop in the night and preserve freshness and natural acidity. The great thing is that the grapes don't get over-ripe as in some warm climates where photosynthesis produces more sugar and therefore more alcohol. That's why Washington red wines are often a moderate 13% alcohol. This wine features aromas of dark spice, fleshy blackberry and smoke. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2017-2020. 209874 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. March 4, 2017
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MacMurray Estate Vineyards Chardonnay 2014, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied, luscious Californian Chardonnay with notes of butterscotch, golden apple and pear. Finishes with baking spice. Pair with roasted turkey. Classic! Drink: 2016-2021. 262063 13% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. November 26, 2016
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La Crema Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2014, Russian River , United States: The grapes for this full-bodied red wine are grown in Sonoma's Russian River Valley appellation, a cool climate that adds a racy, nervy edge to the wine. This classic Californian red wine is pure liquid satin in the glass! Black cherry seduction with mouth-watering yearning for more. Complex with layered of dark berries that intermingle with a judicious use of oak. Cherry and raspberry jam on the midpalate: rich and delicious. Only about 12,000 cases were produced of the 2014 vintage of this Californian Pinot Noir from the Russian River. Drink now or save for a few years: you have the luxury of that choice with this wine. Pair with holiday turkey. Highly recommended. Drink: 2016-2022. 906404 14.50% D 750 mL $54.95 Score: 93/100. November 26, 2016
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Ravenswood Big River Single Vineyard Zinfandel 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Gorgeous and decadent with aromas of blackberry and spice on the nose and palate. Lovely violets and mystery on the finish. Full-bodied, juicy and supple. Very concentrated and rich. Drink with grilled meats. Drink: 2014-2022. 327205 14% D 750 mL $46.00 Score: 93/100. November 11, 2016
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Joel Gott Wines Unoaked Chardonnay 2015, California, United States: Butterscotch and toffee on the nose and palate of this richly layered, full-bodied Californian Chardonnay. Finishes with notes of banana and baking spice. So voluptuous: it's hard to believe there's no oak on this but there isn't. A testament to the ripeness of the grapes themselves. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2015-2019. 458778 13.90% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. February 18, 2017
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