Two Hands Wines Brave Faces Shiraz Grenache Mataro 2008, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Espresso-mocha nose from generous oaking followed by blackberry and plush plums. Full-bodied and luscious. 660035 14.80% D 750 mL  $24.95 Score: 90/100. August 21, 2010 Full Review

Domaine Menada Tcherga Cabernet Sauvignon Mavrud 2007, Bulgaria, Bulgaria: Vintages Wine Panel: Here’s a shake-things-up-on-the-patio wine. Stump the oenophiles at your next get-together by asking them to guess what this delicious blend is. (It blends Cabernet Sauvignon with Bulgaria’s indigenous grape variety, Mavrud.) Medium ruby with a hint of garnet. Brooding aromas of cassis, dried fruits, flowers, woodsmoke, sandalwood and Christmas cake. Dry, but very ripe, sunny, and fruity. Lively acidity, fine tannins, and very tasty. My note: Very simple and tasty with neon purple plums and fleshy blueberries. Full-bodied, smooth and knock-it-back-don’t-think-about it style. 179960 13.20% XD 750 mL  $11.95 Score: 84/100. August 21, 2010 Full Review

Domaine Chanson Teurons 1Er Cru Pinot Noir 2008, A.C., Beaune, Burgundy, France: A gorgeous rose of a wine: delicate yet concentrated with flavour. Seductive fleshy red cherries, satin texture and a finish that goes on forever. One of the best pinot noirs that I’ve tasted in quite some time. Why do I always fall in love with the expensive ones? Drink: 2011-2025. 84426 13.50% XD 750 mL  $43.95 Score: 95/100. December 10, 2011 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review

Speri La Roverina Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Medium-bodied, supple and juicy with bright tart cherry aromas and flavours. A lovely everyday pasta wine. Think tomato sauce. Drink: 2013-2017. 204008 12.50% D 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 87/100. May 10, 2014 Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full Review

Babich Wines Pinot Noir 2008, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Tasty juicy cherries and plums. Love this style with its vibrant mouth-watering acidity for food. Polished tannins with a silky smooth texture and satisfying finish. Drink: 2008-2012. 216 13.50% D 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. August 21, 2010 Full Review