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Wine Picks August 4, 2016

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Note: This batch of wine reviews is not part of the bi-weekly Vintages Releases. Instead, it's a collection of wines outside the Vintages section in store (general list) or wines sent to me directly from wineries that may not yet be available in liquor stores. Click on the Winery or Wine Agency link to get more info.

Argentina

Trapiche Extravaganza Torrentes Chardonnay 2015, Mendoza, Argentina: A lovely Argentine white wine blend of Torrontes and Chardonnay grapes. Torrontes add pretty white floral notes while Chardonnay brings richness and baked bread aromas. Perfect for grilled chicken or seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2018 439851 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Astica Malbec Rosé 2015, Mendoza, Argentina: A crisp and refreshing Argentine Rosé at an incredibly great price for the taste and quality. Mouth-watering and juicy with notes of field strawberries. Serve as a chilled aperitif or companion to seafood. Drink: 2016 - 2017 445833 13% D 750 mL $7.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Traphiche Reserve Syrah 2015, Mendoza, Argentina Drink: 2015 - 2019 222281 14% D 750 mL $14.00 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trapiche Reserve Syrah 2015, Argentina, Argentina: Juicy and fleshy with ripe blackberry and plum. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2015 - 2018 222281 14% MD 750 mL $10.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Lindemans Bin 85 Pinot Grigio 2015, Australia: Crisp and fresh with a vibrant zest but not too acidic. Just right for seafood dishes and pasta with cream sauce. Notes of lime and green apple. Also enjoy as a chilled aperitif. Great price. Drink: 2015 - 2017 668947 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 50 Shiraz 2015, South East Australia, Australia: juicy, full-bodied, smooth and smoky with seductive notes of fleshy black plums and blackberries. Amazing price. pair with meat dishes. Shiraz food pairings: grilled steak, hamburgers, brisket, pork loin, lamb. Drink: 2015 - 2018 145367 13.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, South East Australia, Australia: Full-bodied, supple and smooth with aromas and flavours of fleshy blackberries and black plums. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2016 - 2019 119628 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 95 Sauvignon Blanc 2015, South Australia, Australia: Crisp and fresh: terrific for this price! More green melon than grassy with some gooseberry on the finish. Pair with fresh seafood. Perfect for parties. Drink: 2015 - 2017 181388 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Best's Wines Pty Ltd Bin No. 1 Shiraz 2013, Great Western, Victoria, Australia: Blackberry and fleshy black plum aromas on the nose with some mint, and a savoury mouth-watering note on the palate. Full-bodied and generous. Supple and smooth. Grilled pork chops please! This wine is robust yet it also has terrific balance, the result of its cool-climate origins. This wine will go the distance. Shiraz food pairings: pork chops, grilled radicchio, beef prosciutto, black bean soup, blue cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2019 222323 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hill-Smith Chardonnay 2014, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Love the toasted almond undertone here in this rich yet ethereally balanced cool-climate Australian Chardonnay. Full-bodied but not heavy with lovely acidity. Green apple and pear on the nose and palate. Good layers of complexity and freshness. Satisfying finish. Try with seared tuna. Chardonnay food pairings: seared tuna, planked salmon, smoked whitefish and crème fraiche. Drink: 2015 - 2018 361584 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, South East Australia, Australia Drink: 2016 - 2019 119628 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 95 Sauvignon Blanc 2020, South Australia, Australia Drink: 2015 - 2017 181388 12% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, South East Australia, Australia Drink: 2016 - 2019 119628 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, South East Australia, Australia Drink: 2016 - 2019 119628 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 95 Sauvignon Blanc 2016, South Australia, Australia Drink: 2015 - 2017 181388 12% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 85 Pinot Grigio 2016, South Australia, Australia Drink: 2015 - 2017 668947 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lindemans Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, South East Australia, Australia Drink: 2016 - 2019 119628 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Domaine Queylus Rosé 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2020 - 2022 13% D 750 mL $23.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Riesling 2014, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Riesling food pairings: roasted glazed ham, goats cheese or white pizza with mozzrella, Romano and vegetable toppings. Drink: 2015 - 2020 268375 10.5% MD 750 mL $14.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Grand Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp, fresh with lots of racy acidity for shellfish and seafood. A terrific Niagara white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Good price. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: fried herb-crusted and panko trout, chickpea lentil pea and potato curry, pizza with pork sausage. Drink: 2013 - 2016 25368 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Montague Vineyard Chardonnay 2013, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Smoke and baking spice nose opens up into sensory vistas of ripe fleshy peach, pear and a voluptuous butterscotch infused finish. Full-bodied and delicious! Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: prawn bisque, oyster poor boy, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast. Drink: 2014 - 2017 238642 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Southbrook Vineyards Seriously Cool Red 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, V.Q.A., Ontario, Canada Food pairings: dried meat platters, steak frites, duck confit, pizza and pasta with red sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2017 453639 12.9% XD 750 mL $15.95 August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Okanagan Reserve Chardonnay 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Chardonnay food pairings: curried butternut squash ravioli, breaded oysters and salmon. Drink: 2015 - 2019 13.2% D 750 mL August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blasted Church Vineyards Unorthodox Chardonnay 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2018 13% D 750 mL $19.00 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandbanks Estate Winery Pinot Grigio 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2014 - 2016 372219 12.5% D 750 mL $16.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Chardonnay 2013, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Beautifully rich and buttery, yet balanced with a nervy energy. Aromas of freshly baked bread, toasted almond and golden apple. So very gorgeous. Perfect for roast chicken or lobster in butter. Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken, lobster in butter, sweet pea soup, smoked fish. Drink: 2014 - 2020 616466 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Okanagan Unoaked Chardonnay 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Clean, apple-fresh nose on this BC white wine that is unoaked. White and green melon and the aroma of a fresh spring rain. Lovely and refreshing and mouth-watering. The Chardonnay grapes for this wine grow in the winery's Sundial Vineyard, Black Sage Bench, and Oliver vineyards. Pair with fresh seafood, shellfish and salads. Chardonnay food pairings: light cuisine and creamy cheeses. Drink: 2015 - 2017 726455 12.8% D 750 mL $17.99 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Queylus Reserve Chardonnay 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Butterscotch rich and voluptuous yet not heavy or cloying. Layers of pleasure and toasted almond. This winery is rising fast. Pair with roasted chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2021 417832 13% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Icewine Riesling 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is truly nectar of the gods ... but don't let them drink it all. We mere mortals should stock up on this glorious icewine from the winery that put Canadian icewine on the viticultural map. This is Riesling-based so there's a lovely seam of silver acidity balancing the luscious apricot perserves and peach jam. Os so lovely. Pair with more of the same, or if you must, angel food cake. Drink: 2015 - 2023 558288 9% S 375 mL $79.95 Score: 96/100. August 2016. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Culmina Family Estate Winery Decora Riesling 2014, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant and richly flavours BC Riesling that jumps out of the glass. Aromas of lime, grapefruit and chives. A lovely and racy core of minerality. Pair with fried chicken. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon. Drink: 2014 - 2020 444836 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandbanks Estate Winery Pinot Grigio 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Light and pretty with notes of melon. Serve chilled as an aperitif. Drink: 2014 - 2016 372219 12.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Queylus Rosé 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This racy Niagara rose is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes Pleasingly tart wild strawberry notes and mouth-watering acidity. The vins are planted in glacial till soils enricked by limestone minerality and benefit from the temperate microclimate of Lake Ontario. Serve as a chilled aperitif or companion to grilled seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2017 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Errázuriz Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: Terrific value for this vibrant, come-alive Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. Great aperitif or companion to seafood. Aromas of fresh gooseberry, grass, lime and lemon. Drink: 2016 - 2018 263574 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cono Sur Bicicleta Reserva Viognier 2015, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Absolutely phenomenal wine for the money! This Chilean white wine is made from the aromatic grape Viognier. It's floral but not aggressively so: breezy and pleasant. Perfect as a chilled aperitif or companion to seafood. Here's your ultimate party white wine. Drink: 2016 - 2019 64287 13.5% D 750 mL $14.00 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

M. Chapoutier Marius Grenache Syrah 2015, Pays D'oc Igp, France: A terrific wine, especially at this price! Full-bodied with aromas of cedar brush, black fruit and smoke. Beautifully balanced and complex. Just what you'd expect from a Chapoutier wine. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2015 - 2019 470096 13.5% XD 750 mL $11.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut-Bellevue 2010, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France Food pairings: venison meatball pot pie, wild turkey shepherd's pie, roast rabbit and mushroom herb dumplings. Drink: 2012 - 2020 444307 13.5% D 750 mL $26.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chapoutier Les Grands Merisiers 2012, Chateaueuf-Du-Pape A.O.C., France: Dark fruit and smoke on the nose and palate of this full-bodied, smooth French red wine. Racy acidity for tangy dishes, meat and tomato sauces. Select appellations are chosen by M. Chapoutier that blend several terroirs to create this wine that is itself a blend of different red wine grapes including Syrah, Mouvedre and Grenache, among others. Drink: 2014 - 2018 421073 XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 93/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Pays D'oc, Midi I.G.P., France: Clean and crisp with mouth-watering, juicy acidity for fresh seafood and shellfish. Notes of lime, grapefruit and green apple. Great price. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry fish, shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2015 - 2017 465146 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste Grand Cru Classé 2004, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2008 - 2019 13.5% XD 750 mL $238.00 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Pays D'oc, Midi I.G.P., France Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry fish, shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2015 - 2017 465146 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Pays D'oc, Midi I.G.P., France Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry fish, shellfish, chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad. Drink: 2015 - 2017 465146 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste Grand Cru Classé 2018, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2008 - 2019 13.5% XD 750 mL $238.00 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greece

Giannikos At Sea Roditis 2014, Peleponnese, Greece: Orange zest and apple blossom, yet dry and refreshing Greek white wine. Mouth-watering and juicy: perfect for fresh seafood and shellfish. The bonus is that this wine is organic. Roditis food pairings: baked salmon.. Drink: 2014 - 2018 912419 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.25 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greek Wine Cellars Apelia Agiorgitiko 2013, Peloponnese Igp, Greece Drink: 2014 - 2018 239871 12.5% D 1000 mL $14.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mountain Fish Agiorgitiko 2013, Peloponnese, Greece: Full-bodied and savoury and shockingly great for the price. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 392480 13% D 750 mL $11.25 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tsantali Makedonikos 2014, Macedonia, Greece: A pleasant cherry-berry Greek red wine. Medium-bodied, smooth and supple. Pair with pork chops. Drink: 2015 - 2018 420539 12% D 750 mL $9.95 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tsantali Makedonikos 2014, Macedonia, Greece Drink: 2014 - 2017 420547 11% XD 750 mL $9.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kourtakis Apelia White Moschofilero 2008, Greece Drink: 2008 - 2012 83253 12% D 1500 mL $18.45 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Atelier Lagorthi Riesling 2014, Achaia, Greece: Crisp and fresh with a lime lift through the mid-palate. Nice aperitif or seafood companion. Lagorthi Riesling food pairings: roasted chicken, pan fried trout, garden salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 435973 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Skouras Moschofilero 2014, Peloponnese P.G.I., Greece: Pretty and floral: delicate white florals, just enough. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering and perfect for mild spices and curries. Drink: 2014 - 2018 27154 12% XD 750 mL $18.75 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tsantali Reserve Rapsani Xynomavro Krassoto Stavroto 2011, Thessalia P.D.O., Greece: A rustic, tannic red wine with aromas of charred black fruit, toast, oak and smoke. Firm grip on the palate. It's a blend of traditional grapes including Xinomavro, Krassato, and Stavroto. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Xynomavro Krassoto Stavroto food pairings: Greek marinated lamb ribs on the grill, souvlaki, spanokapita pie. Drink: 2014 - 2020 734855 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Estate Argyros Santorini Assyrtiko 2015, Santorini P.D.O., Greece: Crisp and clean with no oak. You may not familiar with this Greek white wine or the grape, but give it a try and get out of your white wine rut. Pair with shellfish. Assyrtiko food pairings: clam, mussel and scallop hot pot, raw oysters, crab and asparagus omelet. Drink: 2017 - 2020 346055 13.5% XD 750 mL $27.50 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Axia Alpha Estate Syrah Xinomavro 2012, Florina P.G.I., Greece: Savoury with dried herbs and a pow through through the mid-palate. Love it! Black cherry and dark spice. Perfect for grilled meats. Drink: 2014 - 2018 392282 13.6% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Papaioannou Old Vines Agiorgitiko 2010, Nemea, Greece: Rustic, robust and full-bodied with aromas of black plum and berries. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2012 - 2018 277029 13.5% D 750 mL $33.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kourtakis Apelia White Moschofilero 2015, Greece: Campfire smoke and toasted almond on the nose and palate of this medium-bodied, well-priced Greek white wine. Perfect for parties and fresh seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2017 83253 12% D 1500 mL $18.45 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Hatzimichalis Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Attica, Greece: Full-bodied and rustic with dried herbs, savoury meaty notes and wild blackberries. Finishes with smoke and dust. Great for grilled meats. Drink: 2012 - 2019 538074 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boutari Agiorgitiko 2014, Nemea, Greece: Cherry with round and medium-bodied and smooth. Smoky with a great bite at the end. Pair with lamb chops. Drink: 2015 - 2018 172148 12.5% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Boutari Moschofilero 2014, Mantinia, Greece Drink: 2014 - 2017 172387 11.5% D 750 mL $16.05 August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Cusumano Syrah 2014, Sicily, Italy: Full-bodied, luscious with fleshy blackberries and black plums. Incredible price. Pair with rare meats. Drink: 2013 - 2016 145490 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Michele Chiarlo Moscato D'asti 2014, Moscato D'asti, Piedmont, Italy Drink: 2014 - 2016 5% S 750 mL $20.20 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2015, Alto Adige Trentino, Italy: No wonder this is one of the most popular Italian Pinot Grigios in the liquor store! Clean and crisp with lime zest and lemongrass. Lovely as an aperitif or pair with fresh seafood dishes. Pinot Grigio food pairings: pasta with cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, pork burgers, oysters on the half-shell. Drink: 2015 - 2018 106450 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Masi Levarie Soave Classico 2014, Soave, D.O.C., Italy: Light, dry and refreshing: perfect as a chilled aperitif or companion to seafood. Notes of white grapefruit, but not overly acidic. Drink: 2014 - 2017 539295 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bolla Classico Soave 2014, Italy: Terrific lemon vibrancy and refreshment on the nose and palate of this well-priced northern Italian white wine. Lovely lime lift with some grapefruit on the finish. Pair with fresh seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2017 438945 12.5% XD 750 mL $12.90 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fontanafredda Treiso Dolcetto D'alba 2014, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Full-bodied, juicy and tasty with attractive dark red berries and cedar smoke. Perfect for so many dishes with robust flavours. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Pair with pastas in meat sauce or sausages. Valpolicella Superiore food pairings: pasta in a thick tomato sauce. Dolcetto D'alba food pairings: rich tomato and roasted Italian vegetables sauce over penne, beef stuffed tomatoes and peppers. Drink: 2016 - 2022 258483 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

San Michele Castellani Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Iron-rich, cedar rustic Italian red wine. Medium-bodied, supple and easy drinking. Pair with pasta in tomato sauce. Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore food pairings: pizza topped with steak strips and garlic, spicy sausage , prime rib roast, hearty winter stew. Drink: 2013 - 2017 410688 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Guasti Clemente Gavi Di Gavi 2014, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Lots of crisp acidity and racy notes of white grapefruit and lime. Pair with grilled seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2018 435420 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore Classico 2008, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2010 - 2017 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.55 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ruffino Ducale Oro Riserva Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany, Italy: Chianti lovers know this wine ... very well. The 2011 vintage was a challenging one, yet the mastery of the winemaking shows in the glass of this Sangiovese-based wine. Aromas of back cherry, earth, dust and smoke. Vibrant with lively acidity and a long blackberry finish. This big Italian red wine needs serious cellar time. Decant 1-2 hours. Perfect for juicy meat dishes or homemade meatballs and pasta. Chianti Classico food pairings: meat-sauce pasta, meat lovers' pizza, beef stew. Drink: 2016 - 2022 353201 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore Classico 2000, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2010 - 2017 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.55 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pasqua Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore Classico 2014, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2010 - 2017 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.55 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ruffino Ducale Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2013, Tuscany, Italy Chianti Classico food pairings: meat-sauce pasta, meat lovers' pizza, beef stew. Drink: 2016 - 2024 353201 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Kim Crawford Pansy! Rosé 2015, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Don't let the brilliant strawberry hue of this rosé fool you: this wine is bone dry and bursting with refreshment. Aromas of tiny flavour-packed field berries and a lick of orange zest on the finish. Perfect as a chilled aperitif or pair it with seafood, shellfish, salads and more rosé, of course. Highly recommended. Rosé food pairings: seafood, quiche, planked salmon, seared tuna. Drink: 2016 - 2017 650325 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: So creamy, rich and seductively complex. This is a more richly woven Sauvignon Blanc than the winery's entry-level version. There's a longer pungency and persistence of flavours. Very mouth-filling and luscious with surprising lift and vibrancy. Winemaker Anthony is after more ripe tropical fruit in this expression, such as passion fruit, melon, and guava. So vibrant and expressive with clean slate and white citrus on the finish. Pair with mussels, oysters and scallops. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Margherita pizza, salad, pork, strong cheese. Drink: 2015 - 2017 38240 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Aveleda Vinho Verde 2015, Portugal: Crisp and lime fresh with racy edge that makes your day brighter, like sun breaking through clouds. Green apple vibrancy. Amazingly great price. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2015 - 2017 89995 9.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Curvos Prova Cega 2013, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: A full-bodied, smoky, toasty oak Portuguese red wine. Black cherry and dark spice. Perfect for barbecued ribs. Food pairings: grilled pork sausages, pork ribs. Drink: 2015 - 2019 446054 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Cape Heritage Inception Deep Layered Red 2012, Western Cape, South Africa Drink: 2013 - 2017 369967 13% D 750 mL $13.90 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Hacienda López de Haro Gran Reserva 2008, Rioja, Spain: Brilliant! Smoky, earthy, leather, dried herbs. Love this. My kinda wine. My birthday is soon, tomorrow. Pair with lamb and Nat's birthday. Drink: 2015 - 2025 431973 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

García De Aranda Señorío De Los Baldíos 2009, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Want a mature Spanish wine without having to cellar it or pay the usual three times this price? You're welcome. Full-bodied but not fruit forward. Smoky with tanned leather and dried herbs. Pair with lamb and rosemary. Food pairings: slow-braised beef short rib, bbq ribs, grilled marinated sirloin steak. Drink: 2011 - 2017 366393 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Torres Cos Perpetual 2013, Priorat D.O.C.A, Spain: Whispers mocha espresso on the nose from oak aging, followed by a full whistle stop of fleshy blackberry aromas. This robust red wine is a blend of Garnacha and Carinena grapes planted in licorella slate soils on steep hillsides. Sounds like a lot of hot, back-breaking work to pick these suckers. You should be appreciative. The wine is aged in fine-grained French oak barrels for 18 months. Pair with filet mignon. Food pairings: bison burgers, minced venison steak, roast pheasant stuffed with wild mushroom. Drink: 2015 - 2020 265710 15.4% D 750 mL $61.35 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Marimar Estate Acero Chardonnay 2014, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Divinely delightful with supreme balance and length. Chardonnay for royalty. Notes of toasted almond, green apple and white peach. Pair with coronations. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster Thermidor, coquilles St.Jacques, oyster hotpot. Drink: 2015 - 2019 383943 13.8% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 94/100. August 2016. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Columbia Crest Winery Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: The soils aren't heavy and rich in this wine region of Washington state; rather they're more like sand traps on a golf course so they don't retain water and make the vines work hard. That's a good thing and results in smaller, more flavourful grapes and wine. Also eastern Washington where these vineyards are located is the driest part of the state. It can be 19 degrees C and raining in Seattle (on the other side of the Cascade Mountains) but 35 degrees and dry here. As well it rains mostly in the winter when moisture doesn't bloat the grapes, which aren't growing at that time. Therefore the winemaker can control the amount of wine during the dry growing season so the wines develop the same intensity of flavour as warm climate wines but the cool nights preserve balance and freshness. This Cabernet features Old World flare and styling with New World fruit and power. Aromas of black fruit, mocha and vanilla spice. Pair this with prime rib. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork ribs smoked, juicy barbecued steak. Drink: 2014 - 2020 460154 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Full-bodied, with black fruit: Savoury, juicy, firm grip that's satisfying. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with a rare steak. Lots of fleshy dark plums on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2015 - 2019 38075 14.2% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Napa Cellars Merlot 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied, solidly made Merlot from Napa Cellars. Classic aromas of black plum and berries. Supple and smooth. Pair with grilled pork chops. Merlot food pairings: roast chicken paprika with onion and herb stuffing, onion pie, roast bresse chicken. Drink: 2015 - 2019 447300 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Menage A Trois Zinfandel 2014, Lodi, California, United States: Smoky campfire, mouth-watering fleshy blackberries. Wowsers. Juicy, savoury, come back for more wine. Pair with barbecued wings or ribs. Drink: 2015 - 2020 15% D 750 mL $25.30 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Leonetti Cellar Merlot 2005, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States Drink: 2007 - 2018 13.5% XD 750 mL $88.98 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

14 Hands Hot To Trot Red Blend 14 Hands 2012, Colombia Valley, Washington, United States: Full-bodied, ultra supple and smooth and luscious. Aromas of fleshy black plums and dark berries. Great price. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2014 - 2018 226522 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

McManis Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, grilled New York strip loin, hard cheese, braised pork shanks, veal chops. Drink: 2014 - 2017 212126 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Columbia Crest Winery Grand Estates Chardonnay 2013, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Aromas of Meyer lemon, toffee and butterscotch. Smooth and full-bodied. Full-bodied and smooth with layers of buttery richness. Finishes with toasty oak and pineapple and guava notes. What's remarkable is the careful and personal detail each of the 6000 barrels get for this wine. They are all hand-stirred weekly when aging on the lees to add creamy texture and rich depth. Every wine is touched every week by the winemaking team for 8 months, a term the French call batonnage to extract flavour from the proteins and yeasts in the wine that would naturally settle on the bottom and not have much impact. This process really builds the mid-palate. This wine is 100% barrel-fermented. Aromas of butterscotch, toasty oak and golden apple. This wine is available on the general list year-round outside of Vintages. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: poached salmon with sautéed snap peas and snow peas, Thai seafood noodle salad, butternut squash risotto,. Drink: 2015 - 2019 462846 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château St. Jean Fumé Blanc 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: A terrific and complex Californian blend of Sauvignon and Semillon grapes. Not loads of acidity: smoky but not buttery like chardonnay. Pair with shellfish. Fumé Blanc food pairings: roast turkey leg and wings with lemon pepper and green herbs, smoked salmon benny, butternut squash ravioli,. Drink: 2015 - 2018 537639 13.6% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Seven Falls Cellars Merlot 2011, Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Mocha, coffee and espresso on the nose that is so seductive... wow. Opens on the palate with fleshy black fruit and a velvet texture. Full-bodied and mouth-filling. Pair with a pepper steak. Merlot food pairings: Brazilian-style flank steak, rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse, grilled lamb, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 420711 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Charles & Charles Zinfandel 2014, California, United States: Juicy and fleshy with smoky aromas and fleshy ripe blackberries. Supple and smooth. Pair with BBQ ribs. Zinfandel food pairings: steak frites, grilled gourmet sausages. Drink: 2015 - 2020 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. August 2016. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Prisoner Wine Company Unshackled Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, California, United States Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: stuffed farmer's pork chops, grilled butcher's steak, lamburgers. Drink: 2021 - 2024 17812 14.5% D 750 mL $32.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sterling Vintner's Collection Central Coast Merlot 2013, Central Coast, California, United States Drink: 2015 - 2018 527481 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 August 2016. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Napa Cellars Merlot 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States Merlot food pairings: roast chicken paprika with onion and herb stuffing, onion pie, roast bresse chicken. Drink: 2015 - 2019 447300 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 August 2016. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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