Dessert Wine
Maynard's Finest Reserve Ruby Port, Portugal: This Portuguese fortified dessert wine offers aromas of purple plums and blueberries on the nose and palate. This ruby port features black raspberry on the finish. Straight-forward dessert wine pleasure. Pair with black raspberry desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2019 385237 19.5% S 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Suduiraut Sauternes 2010, Bordeaux A.C., France: This is the half bottle size of this spectacular dessert wine from the Bordeaux region of Sauternes, made from a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The 2010 vintage was a real stand-out. Aromas of honey, peach and baking spice. Pair with foie gras or fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2014 - 2025 256206 13% S 375 mL $62.85 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Quinta Nova Late Bottled Vintage Port 2009, Portugal: Juicy and delicious late bottle vintage (LBV) port, with loads of blueberry and purple plum flavours in this dessert wine. Pair with Black Forest Cake. Drink: 2013 - 2020 398792 19.5% S 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Inniskillin Niagara Estate Vidal Sparkling Icewine 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Although Inniskillin didn't invent Sparkling Icewine, they have perfected it. This vidal grape based bubbly has all the decadence you want in a dessert wines with the heaviness, high sweetness or high alcohol. The bubbles have a wonderfully drying effect in contrast to the wine's sweetness. Pair this sparkler with pâté or foie gras. Drink: 2013 - 2018 560367 10% S 375 mL $79.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Southbrook Vineyards Vidal Icewine 2013, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This gorgeous dessert wine is made from organically grown Vidal grapes by one o Ontario's most respected wineries. This is a terrific dessert on its own or pair it with fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2020 525634 11% S 375 mL $39.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Ice Cider food pairings: nuts, blue-veined cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 39305 10% MS 375 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Puklus 5 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2008, Tokaj-Hegyalja, Hungary: Platonic essence of honey! Yes, let it pour over your senses, starting with your scalp as it drips down and fills every crevice. Dessert on its own or heavenly with biscotti and angel cake. Finishes with gorgeous aromas of honeyed apricot and butterscotch. Pair with foie gras at the beginning of the meal, or cheeses at the end. Tokaji Aszú food pairings: biscotti, angel cake, foie gras, blue-veined cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2020 47209 11% S 500 mL $35.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
Trim Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, California, United States: Produced by Signorello Estate, this robust Californian Cabernet Sauvignon offers attractive aromas of dark chocolate, espresso and mocha on the nose from generous oak againg. The palate is more savoury than sweet, with cedarbrush and sage. Full-bodied, smooth and supple. Drink: 2015 - 2019 20811 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosenblum Cellars Zinfandel 2011, Paso Robles, California, United States: Full-bodied with rich dark fruit and a complex structure. Not as sweet as many zins: more concentrated and complex. This muscular Zinfandel reflects the warmth and richness of Paso Robles in southern California. Lots of bold black cherry, pepper and spice. Sourced from grapes grown in the warm foothills of the arid vineyards studded with oak trees. Drink: 2013 - 2016 31781 14.9% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chapoutier Rasteau 2012, Rhone Valley Aoc, France: An excellent, complex, deeply layered Rhone Valley red wine blend from one of the region's best producers. Layers of dark fruit and smoke. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: filet mignon, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2016 321539 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Trapiche Terroir Series Single Vineyard Jorge Miralles Malbec 2009, La Consulta, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied red wine with attractive aromas of blackberries, black plums, dark spice and tar. Long finish. Superb craftsmanship. Drink: 2013 - 2018 261040 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Les Yeuses Les Épices Syrah 2011, Pays D'oc, Midi I.G.P., France: Fantastic for the money! Full-bodied and juicy with black and purple fleshy plums and berry aromas and flavours. The Ultimate grilled hamburger wine. Great for parties given the price. Produced by Jean-Paul et Michel Dardé. Yes please! Syrah food pairings: ribs, lamb, burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 177584 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Laughing Stock Blind Trust Red 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: While I have enjoyed this BC red wine in the past, the 2012 vintage is disappointing. Short, unripe and almost stemmy in character. This Okanagan blend of Bordeaux grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, has received some of my highest scores in previous vintages, but sadly not this one. Do the math: this price-quality ration doesn't compute. Pair with under-performing stocks and over-priced bonds. Drink: 2014 - 2019 230110 14% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 84/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hiver Festif Juliénas 2013, Beaujolais A.C., France: Tart cherry with lots of acidity in this medium-died French red wine made from the Gamay grape. Simple and straight-forward. Pair with holiday turkey and cranberry sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2016 390492 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 86/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Planet Oregon Tony Soter Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Slightly under-ripe and herbal Pinot Noir from Oregon, a state renowned for this wine, though it's a very cool climate and hard to achieve ideal ripeness. Medium-bodied, smooth and acidic with lots of sour cherry notes. Drink: 2012 - 2017 333245 13.4% XD 750 mL $34.55 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
KWV The Mentors Canvas 2011, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: A humongous South African red wine has aromas blackened, charred dark fruit, smoke, oak and tar. This is a blend of mostly Syrah with Tempranillo, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the traditional Rhone blend. The wine was aged for 18 months in oak barrels. Food pairings: beef stew with root vegetables. Drink: 2013 - 2016 348839 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Bogle Vineyards Essential Red 2012, California, United States: Chocolate, mocha, espresso and coffee on the nose from lots of oak aging on this Californian red wine. Smooth and full-bodied with a sweet chocolate finish. Pair with coffee-rubbed steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 394452 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hope The Cracker Cabernet Merlot 2011, Western Australia, Australia: Juicy and mouth-watering with charred blackened fruit and lots of toasty oak and dark spice. Purple plums and blackberries. Smooth and full-bodied. Cabernet Merlot food pairings: beef, poultry, pork. Drink: 2013 - 2017 20206 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Burrowing Owl Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Mocha, dark chocolate and espresso from very generous oak aging. The 2011 vintage was a tough one and the fruit here is not as expressive as past vintages. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, beef enchiladas. Drink: 2013 - 2017 73098 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
São Miguel Dos Descobridores Seleccionada Colheita 2012, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal: Lovely blackberry liqueur on the nose and palate, like amped up Zinfandel. Fleshy ripe black plums and purple berries on the finish. Perfect for pizza night. Drink: 2013 - 2017 146092 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, California, United States: Smoky with savoury black fruit and a hickory campfire finish. Full-bodied and smooth -- great for meat lovers pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef. Drink: 2013 - 2017 224162 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Poderi Angelini Di Manduria Primitivo 2009, Puglia D.O.C., Italy: Dark spice and burnt fruit with tarry smoke. Tasty in a full-throttle way. Zinfandel on steroids. Needs charred meats. Primitivo food pairings: lamb, beef. Drink: 2013 - 2017 268136 15% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Ricaud 2010, Blaye Côtes De Bordeaux A.C., France: Rustic, robust and cedary with tart wild blackberry and cassis notes. Nice price for everyday Bordeaux. Decant for 2 hours and pair with juicy meats and rare steaks. Drink: 2014 - 2018 390237 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Palacios Remondo La Montesa 2011, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A blend of 65% Garnacha, 30% Tempranillo and 5% Mazuelo grapes. Full-bodied, chalky and smooth. Aromas of dark fruit and smoke. Matured in 20% in new oak barrels. Some anise and black plum on the finish. Pair with osso buco. Food pairings: chili, soup, beef, lamb chops, smoked cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 674572 14% XD 750 mL $20.75 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine du Grand Tinel 2010, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Blackened, charred dark fruit, smoke, tar and cigar box o the nose and palate of this huge French red wine that weights in at 15% alcohol and shows it. Pair with T-Rex burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2020 993964 15% XD 750 mL $52.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Montes Alpha Merlot 2011, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Juicy, full-bodied and intense with aromas and flavours of big purple and black fleshy plums and berries. Tannic grip, so decant for 1 hour and enjoy with grilled pork shops. Merlot food pairings: roast beef, salt pork and cabbage. Drink: 2013 - 2017 22228 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Nozieres Cuvée Ambroise de l'Her Malbec 2011, Cahors, Southwest A.C., France: Big, blackened fruit, smoke, tar and brooding dark mystery on the nose and palate of this full-bodied French red wine that is a blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Merlot grapes. Grippy tannins and lots of punch on the palate. Oak aging makes this wine finish with dark spice and smoke. Pair with grilled meats in a hearty sauce or stew, lamb or hard cheeses. Drink: 2013 - 2017 276055 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dandelion Vineyards Lioness Of Mclaren Vale Shiraz 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied, robust and rustic with full-throttle black fruit, smoke, oak and spice. Polished tannins and a long finish. decant 1 hour and pair with rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2018 357475 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Il Molino Di Grace Riserva Chianti Classico 2006, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Right on the edge of peak or past-peak but still lovely. Dried leather and cigar box. Drink now. Full-bodied and smooth with lots of good acidity. Drink: 2012 - 2016 382945 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Meyer Family Vineyards Pinot Noir 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Supple, smooth and mouth-watering with tart black cherry and fresh earth in the medium-bodied BC red wine made from the iconic Pinot Noir. Drink: 2013 - 2018 392449 13% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lavau Rasteau 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Robust, dry and almost leathery in a good way. Dried black fruit, smoke and dark spice on the nose and palate of this French red wine blend of Grenache and Syrah that express the Rasteau terroir of the Rhone. Drink: 2014 - 2018 394650 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Monastir S.Xii Cluny 2006, Navarra D.O., Spain: Mature Spanish wine in the best sense, but drink it soon. Old tanned leather, cigar smoke wafting past a sunlight window in the library of leather-bound editions, gold glinting n the light. Adjust your silk smoking jacket, loosen that cravat and reach for the bottle again. Drink: 2010 - 2016 391557 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rapitala Alto Nero D'avola 2012, Sicily I.G.T., Italy: Love the dark fruit seduction. Layers of luscious black berry velvet caresses the senses and tongue. Wrap your mind and everything else around this black beauty. This wine was aged in both oak barriques and casks. Pair with brisket. Drink: 2013 - 2017 392852 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De Grand Garant Le Vivier Fleurie 2013, Beaujolais A.C., France: Robust Beaujolais that has nothing to do style-wise with nouveau. Dark cherry and a core of sensuality in this medium-bodied, smooth, supple French red wine made from the Gamay grape. Drink: 2013 - 2017 398404 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kenwood Vineyards Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Sonoma Mountain, California, United States: Big tannic grip on this blockbuster Californian red wine made from cabernet sauvignon grapes. Smoke and toasty oak with tart black fruit on the palate and finish. Needs cellar time, then decant for 1-2 hours. Drink: 2015 - 2019 470500 13.5% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Heitz Wine Cellars Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Napa Valley, California, United States: A smoky, mature Californian red wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. This wine is at peak, or slightly past right now so drink soon. It's an interesting estate experiment to see how well Napa wines can age. Drink: 2013 - 2017 992438 14.6% XD 750 mL $215.00 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
13th Street Winery Sandstone Old Vines Gamay Noir 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Black pepper sprinkled on tart dark cherry in this vibrant go-to Gamay from Niagara. Lots of acidity for food. Juicy and medium-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2012 - 2017 130195 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vidal-Fleury Vacqueyras 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Black cherry liqueur on the nose with wild violets, followed by an expansive palate of the same. Very mouth-filling and robust. Beautifully balanced acidity for food. Long finish. Great price. Highly recommended. Drink: 2014 - 2019 394643 13.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Caprili Brunello Di Montalcino 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This Italian red wine is slow to age, but as this is the 2009 vintage, it has come into its own. Seductive aromas of black fruit, wild violets, truffles and smoke. Full-bodied, very smooth and just the perfect amount of acidity for roast beef. Drink: 2014 - 2018 14962 15% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moillard Tradition Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: A stunningly gorgeous Old World Pinot Noir at a steal of a price for Burgundy. Holy smokes! Fleshy ripe cherry aromas and flavours with just enough juicy acidity for a wide range of dishes from turkey to salmon. Lovely long finish. Don't buy it all before I get to the store please. Drink: 2013 - 2018 66399 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pepperjack Barossa Red 2012, Barossa Valley, Australia: A wow wine! Mouth-watering aromas of wild blackberry and mulberry on the nose that delivers luscious, fleshy, juicy flavour on the palate. Full-bodied and very supple with layers of caressing pleasure on the tongue. Not overdone or a fruit bomb by any means: balanced, and dignified as only the way Barossa Valley reds can do. This is a robust red wine finishes with nuances of violets, anise and a touch of mocha. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Highly recommended. Drink: 2013 - 2018 393801 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Salentein Reserve Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Stunning concentration of aromas and flavors with excellent balance robust Argentine red wine. Round, polished tannins give a velvet mouth-feel. This wine was aged 14 months in French oak. Nightcap anyone? A richly hued wine that finishes with black plum, mocha and vanilla spice. The estate vineyards are located between 1,110 and 1,700 metres above sea level and benefit from five different microclimates. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, pasta, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 640854 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Fairly robust Pinot Noir, with cherry aromas and a firm grip. Fresh acidity makes this wine very food friendly. Finishes with notes of cranberry, beet root and wild raspberry. Elk Cove is one of the most respected wineries in Oregon, and has been making wine for more than 35 years, with an intense focus on Pinot Noir. Decant 2 hours. Pair with meaty fish, like salmon and tuna. Pinot Noir food pairings: beef, meaty fish, roast turkey, gourmet burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 234534 14% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Crema Pinot Noir 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Liquid velvet! Black cherry seduction with mouth-watering yearning for more. Please! Complex with layered of dark berries that intermingle with a judicious use of oak. Cherry and raspberry jam on the midpalate: rich and delicious. Drink now or save for a few years: you have the luxury of that choice with this wine. Pair with holiday turkey. The grapes for this full-bodied red wine are grown in Sonoma's Russian River Valley appellation. Highly recommended. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled radicchio , zucchini frittata, seared tuna, barbecued duck, veggie mushroom burger. Drink: 2013 - 2018 154442 14.5% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Terrazas De Los Andes Reserva Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Love it! Meaty and mouth-watering with gorgeous ripe dark berries. Smooth and full-bodied. Juiciness and acidity cry out for a food companion, especially for the hearty meat variety. Decant 1 hour. Some blackberry and anise on the finish. The grapes for this wine are grown at an altitude of 1067 metres above sea level, which gives the wine balance and a nervy edge due to excellent drainage for the vintages and cool microclimate for the grapes. Pair this dark beauty with a juicy steak. Malbec food pairings: veal, beef, chicken herb-rubbed roast, hearty soups, stew. Drink: 2013 - 2017 29280 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Morgenster Lourens River Valley 2005, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Mocha and fleshy black plum on he nose. Full-bodied and supple. Feel your way through this red with your eyes closed and brush your senses with silk drapery. This is the second label of this well-respected producer, and it benefits from the same care and attention as the flagship wine. The wine is a blend of Merlot (37%), and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon for most of the remainder with a splash of Petit Verdot. Pair this robust red with brisket. Food pairings: beef. Drink: 2013 - 2018 709303 14% XD 750 mL $27.25 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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 13.7% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
MacMurray Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Good balance with black cherry aromas and flavours but not overly sweet. Medium-bodied and smooth and a fair price for this quality, especially for Pinot Noir, which is always expensive because it's so difficult to grow. This hails from one of California's cool climate regions in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma which creates the balance in the wine from cool nights. Produced by Ernest & Julio Gallo, this Californian Pinot Noir offers the balance that's the signature of the Sonoma region. The original MacMurray homestead was settled 150 years ago. Offers notes of sage, black raspberry and spice. Polished tannins. Pinot Noir food pairings: ratatouille, smoked salmon, veal, grilled pork, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2014 - 2019 48207 13.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Corte Pavone Loacker Brunello Di Montalcino 2008, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Pleasantly bitter black fruit on the nose mingles with wild violets and tar: trust me, this is a good thing. Simply delicious: one of the best brunellos I've tasted in a long time. This wine is unfiltered, which gives it lots of character and stuffing, and almost a dark, feral nature. Decant for 2 hours, pair with osso buco, and put on some Italian baroque music. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: ravioli, autumn hodge-podge, chili, bastilles, onion dip. Drink: 2013 - 2021 237263 15% XD 750 mL $57.95 Score: 94/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Paitin Sori Barbaresco 2010, Piedmont D.O.C.G., Italy: Love it! Produced by Azienda Agricola Paitin, this mature red wine features aromas of leather, violets and dried fruit. This is liquid gorgeous. Give the fruit bombs a rest and try a grown-up wine. Lovely structure, balance and long finish. Perfect for dinner parties, especially those with lamb on the menu. Superb craftsmanship. Barbaresco food pairings: egg plant, lamb, pasta, beef, pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2020 106591 13.5% XD 750 mL $69.00 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ondarre Reserva Tempranillo 2008, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A full-bodied red wine blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo and 10% Garnacha grapes, aged in American and French oak barrels. Dark red fruit, leather and some smoke. Supple and ready now. Pair with roast beef. Tempranillo food pairings: pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 723452 12.8% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: A balanced wine and a great value. This is mostly cabernet sauvignon with some merlot and zinfandel grapes in the blend. Dark fruit aromas are wrapped in toasty oak. Nice symmetry and balance with full-bodied weight. Gets my vote! Finished with dried herbs an dark fruit. Pair with roast beef. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, hodge-podge, avocado and papaya salad, beef. Drink: 2014 - 2018 73817 13.5% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Predator Old Vine Zinfandel 2013, Lodi, California, United States: Campfire smoke, hickory and toasty oak with black fruit on the nose. Full-bodied and smooth. Old vines really do show their age nicely in a wine with deep concentration of dark fruit flavours. Supple, mouth-filling and delicious. Which dish to pair with the Predator? I'm sure you can hunt down something in the kitchen. Zinfandel food pairings: pepper steaks, smoked meat, barbecued pork, grilled chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 322957 15% D 750 mL $26.90 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cantine Due Palme Primitivo 2012, Salento, Puglia I.G.T., Italy: Dark chocolate and mocha aromas on the nose with fleshy ripe blackberry notes. Lovely toasty oak on the finish. Medium- to full-bodied. Supple and smooth but packed with flavour, just as a Primitivo (aka Zinfandel) grape-based wine should be. Try this with a variety of pizzas, from meat lovers' to four cheeses. Primitivo food pairings: grilled steak with mushrooms and onions, coq au vin, Cornish game hen, bruschetta. Drink: 2013 - 2016 658351 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Shiraz Viognier food pairings: grilled pork chops, herb-rubbed chicken, roast beef, lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2019 18887 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Luis Felipe Edwards Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Full-bodied Chilean Cabernet at a great price! Offers seductive tarry blackcurrant and cassis aromas and flavours on the nose and palate. Pair with a juicy, rare steak. Finishes with blackcurrant and cedar brush. Pair with pepperoni pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: juicy, rare steak, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 169847 14% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Food pairings: grilled lamb chops, liver and onions. Drink: 2013 - 2018 622571 14.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vineland Estates Winery Pinot Meunier 2012, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lovely essence of Pinot Meunier -- an undiscovered red grape often just used in a blend like an understudy. This offers enticing notes of soft cherry and red floral aromas. Perfect for roast turkey or chicken. Makes a nice aperitif too. Medium-bodied and balanced. In the Champagne region of France, Pinot Meunier is one of the three key grapes in the sparkling wine blend, along with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It's rare to find a single varietal Pinot Meunier wine, so give it a try with grilled pork chops. Pinot Meunier food pairings: roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2016 225508 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Decoy Pinot Noir 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: The Decoy range of wines, now being made for more than two decades have come into their own, offering fleshy cherry-berry aromas on the nose. The much-respected Californian winery Duckhorn Vineyards produces this second label Pinot Noir that that is excellent quality for the money. Full-bodied, round and rollicking with good natured ripe fruit, spices and cedarwood smoke. Mouth-watering yet it finishes long and elegant. Sonoma County shines in this Pinot Noir, which has benefited from warm days to ripen its fleshy fruit character and cool nights to preserve balance. Try it with seared tuna or roast turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled pork, coq au vin, beef bourguignon, grilled salmon, roast lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2019 191833 13.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: A stunning Californian Cabernet of incredible depth. A trophy wine that you should actually drink not just look at longingly as it gathers dust in your cellar. Dark red fruit, smoke, violet and cassis fill the glass. The winery that produces this blockbuster is gorgeous. The tannins are exceptionally well-integrated with the other elements of the wine, which will allow it to age gracefully for a long time. Decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with rare filet mignon. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef. Drink: 2014 - 2025 709881 14.5% XD 750 mL $147.95 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Syrah food pairings: rare roast beef with oven roasted potatoes, game, cheddar, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2018 38513 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Black Stallion Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with black fruit, cassis and toasty oak. Very dry with a long finish. Black Stallion produces classic Californian Cabernet from the Oak Knoll district of Napa Valley along the Silverado Trail. The fieldstone exterior houses a state-of-the-art winery. Try this with ribs or roast beef, and a side of horseradish. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: juicy, rare steak, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2019 256768 14.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Food pairings: roast beef dinner. Drink: 2013 - 2017 433912 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Ernie Els Big Easy 2012, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A terrific, toasty, blockbuster red wine with brooding dark fruit and cedar notes. Perfect for when you almost got a hole in one ... Yes, this is named after the famous golfer who owns the winery. This wine is a blend of mostly shiraz with some cabernet sauvignon with small dashes of cinsault, mourvèdre, grenache and viognier grapes. Savoury, meaty note with mouth-watering juiciness. Let's go back to the clubhouse and discuss. Food pairings: grilled beef medallions in a peppercorn sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 220038 14.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Cicchitti Gran Reserva Malbec 2006, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied and edgy with aromas of dried herbs, wild blackcurrant and fennel. Interesting and different. The grapes for this full-bodied red wine came from the Altamira vineyard. The wine was then matured for 1 year in French and American oak barrels. Pair with venison. Malbec food pairings: pizza, lamb, spicy sausage, beef, meatloaf. Drink: 2012 - 2016 155713 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Balbás Crianza 2005, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Juicy and mouth-filling with layered flavours of mouth-watering blackberry and blueberry notes. Polished tannins with great mouth-weight. Produced by Bodegas Alitus. Lovely finish. The robust red wine is a blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Food pairings: porterhouse steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 167601 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Catena Nicasia Vineyard La Consulta Malbec 2010, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Cigar box aromas borne on a river of black plum pleasure through the palate. Full-bodied with lapping layers of liquid velvet. This is the one to pour if you want to celebrate anything, including just opening this bottle. Pair this with a New York steak. Malbec food pairings: pizza, lamb, spicy sausage, beef, meatloaf. Drink: 2012 - 2018 132357 14.7% D 750 mL $96.00 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Montes Purple Angel Carmenere / Petit Verdot 2011, Colchagua Valley Do, Chile: Purple Angel will make you feel as though you've gone to heaven aloft a cloud of sensory pleasure. Can one wine pack more flavour into the bottle? I'm skeptical. The grape Carmenere resurfaced in Chile about 12 years ago after being believed extinct when the root louse phylloxera hit Bordeaux, its original home, in 1880. In Chile it's called the "Jurassic Grape" because it returned from so-called extinction. Montes grapes are planted on steep vineyards for maximum drainage. This vintage is a blend of 92% Carmenere, 8% petite Verdot aged for 18 months in French and American oak barrels. If you love full-bodied, juicy, fruit-forward wines, this is your apogee as it also has all of those other great hallmarks of superb wine: complexity, balance and finish. Yes please! Carmenere / Petit Verdot food pairings: hearty meat dishes, grilled steaks, osso buco. Drink: 2014 - 2020 62364 14% XD 750 mL $85.00 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Wakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Clare Valley, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Minty coolness on the nose is flooded over by fleshy blackberry richness on the palate. A hedonist's wine to fill the senses. Full-bodied and smooth. Finishes with dried herbs, tobacco leaves and cedar brush. Very satisfying, especially at this price. Pair with ribeye steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: beef enchiladas, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 142398 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Descendientes de J. Palacios Pétalos 2012, Bierzo D.O., Spain: Founded in 1998 by Alvaro Palacios, one of the most respected winemakers in Spain. A rich, meaty wine of great balance and length. Savory with blackberries and pepper. Full-bodied with an attractive subtle herbal note mid-palate. This wine is made from the Mencia grape, which is called Jaen in Portugal. Lovely dark spices and pepper on the finish. Great for the cellar or enjoy now after decanting for an hour. Top me up! The 2012 vintage of Petales from Alvaro Palacios rivals recent great vintages. There were 320,000 bottles produced. Aromas of violets, smoke and wild berries. Lovely. Food pairings: shepherds pie, hamburgers, chicken with goat cheese, herbed crusted tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 446484 15% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Elderton Ode To Lorraine Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2010, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This big, black fruited red wine is produced by the Ashmead Family. It proffers a savoury, meaty note and mouth-watering acidity. Layered and delicious. I recommend many of the wines from this winery with my highest ratings, and deservingly so. Master craftsmanship here. Elderton winery is certified Carbon Neutral. I don't know who Lorraine is, but I'd like to thank her for being the inspiration for this wine. This full-bodied red wine is a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Shiraz and 9% Merlot grapes. Pair with roast beef. Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot food pairings: meatloaf, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 976423 14.5% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 94/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem M. Chapoutier 2012, Côtes De Roussillon-Villages, Midi A.C., France: Complex, mysterious and spectacular! Full-bodied, juicy, layered and smooth. Endless finish. I love the Braille label, plus the name includes a nice dose of Latin: perfect teacher's pet gift for end of the year (or perhaps now to lock in those 90s). Aromas of baked black fruit yet dry. So very delicious. Wish I knew the Latin phrase for that ... ultimum delici vinum! Taut, robust and ready to rock when you are! This full-on, take-me-on red wine has it all. Black fruit, smoke, mocha and dark spice on the finish, which is loooooooong. Drink: 2014 - 2020 643239 14% XD 750 mL $25.45 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sparkling Wine
Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut, Sonoma County, California, United States: One of my favourite Californian bubblies! Toasty and fresh at a great price. Don't limit yourself to pre-dinner toasts and New Year's Eve with this terrific bubbly: drink it throughout the meal and throughout the year. In fact, why not make a resolution to do so now? Pair with fried chicken, oysters and other shellfish. Food pairings: chicken, curried dishes, pretzels, green peppers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 192898 12.5% XD 750 mL $36.35 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
La Marca Prosecco, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: An excellent price for this zesty and refreshing Italian sparkling wine! Lime-grapefruit notes with a clean, dry finish. Crisp Meyer lemon on the finish. Terrific as an aperitif or companion to shellfish. The La Marca Prosecco is made from Glera grapes and offers great value in the sparkling wine category. Pair with shellfish and fried foods. Prosecco food pairings: salad, cheese, poultry, pasta with cheese-based sauce, seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2016 287987 11% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moët & Chandon Brut Grand Vintage Champagne 2000, Champagne A.C., France: Superb, toasty and robust with zesty notes of green apple and baked bread. Complex and layered, yet with a mature nuance that makes this Champagne fascinating and so different. Pair with holiday dinners and gift giving. Champagne food pairings: Thai coconut shrimp, pasta with cheese-based sauce, caviar, shellfish, seafood risotto. Drink: 2010 - 2018 69773 12.5% XD 750 mL $85.95 Score: 94/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Rosé Champagne 2004, Champagne A.C., France: Spectacular! I love rose bubbly the best, and this one hails from the king of Champagne houses. Rose Champagne is the liquid translation of camaraderie and celebration. Gorgeous aromas of fleeting field raspberries combine with toasty effervescence. Perfect holiday gift (for yourself). Pair with oysters. Champagne food pairings: turkey sandwiches, veal tenderloin, light fruit pastries. Drink: 2012 - 2022 69831 12.5% XD 750 mL $102.95 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Featherstone Cuvee Joy Sparkling 2010, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Toasty and robust with rich layers of freshly baked bread in this brilliant Ontario bubbly. Some lemon brightness through the centre and mid-palate. Lovely persistence of bubbles and a clean, crisp finish with some Granny Smith apple notes. Delightful, especially for the price. This Niagara sparkler is made using the Champagne approach and grapes (Methode Champenoise). It's bottle-fermented from the winery's estate-grown Chardonnay in the French methode classique. Inspired by traditions of the best sparkling wine houses of Europe, the wine is named after a woman at the heart of the winery's family - the winemaker's mother, Joyce. Pair with shellfish and happiness. Food pairings: shellfish, fried chicken, salads. Drink: 2012 - 2016 310334 12.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Sumarroca Gran Reserva Brut Nature Cava 2009, Penedès D.O., Spain: Love it! Savoury, robust and juicy Spanish sparkling wine at a bargain rice. Stock up for holiday parties now. Dry and crisp with lime green apple notes. Pair with shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2016 393504 11.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Taittinger Nocturne Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Toasty, bready and robust especially for a Champagne house known for the delicacy of its sparkling wines. Love this. Pair with sushi. Drink: 2013 - 2018 385195 12.5% D 750 mL $73.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Perrier-Jouët Cuvée Belle Époque Brut Champagne 2006, Champagne A.C., France: A luxurious Champagne from one of the region's best producers in a remarkable vintage. Crisp, clean, refreshing yet robust and toast: this sparkling wine has it all. Great persistent of bubble and a long finish. Drink: 2014 - 2020 135798 12.5% XD 750 mL $189.95 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Benjamin Bridge Brut 2009, Nova Scotia, Canada: Benjamin Bridge has established itself among premium producers of Canadian sparkling wine. This east coast bubbly was aged for three years on its lees, adding richness and creaminess to the wine, and was disgorged in August 2014 using the Méthode Classique. This wine will cellar well, but I challenge you to wait. Pair with fresh seafood, from Nova Scotia, of course. Food pairings: stuffed roast turkey, battered seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2018 415983 12.5% D 750 mL $47.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dom Pérignon Metamorphosis Champagne 2004, Champagne A.C., France: A gloriously rich and robust Champagne with notes of toasted almond, brioche and apple. Long beaded bubbles with a persistent finish and replays of flavour. Pair with the finest fresh seafood. Drink: 2014 - 2022 12.5% XD 750 mL $249.00 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dom Perignon Metamorphosis Rosé Champagne 2003, Champagne A.C., France: A lovely pink Champagne made from the most exhausting of fine practices to achieve that salmon ballet slipper colour. Aromas of fleeting field berries and some dry spice on the finish. Wow. Drink: 2014 - 2022 12.5% XD 750 mL $329.95 Score: 95/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Josef Chromy 2008, Tasmania, Australia: This bubbly hails from the cool climate of Tasmania, where it excels in making other cool climate wines such Pinot Noir, part of this blend. Aromas of mixed spices, freshly baked bread and green apple dominate in this vibrant sparkling wine. Pair with shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 393629 12.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Brut Vintage Champagne 2004, Champagne A.C., France: The grand dame herself Madame Clicquot was known for her robust, rather masculine Champagnes, in which Pinot Noir often led in the blend. Today is no different, especially with this marvelous vintage dated sparkling wine. Great balance, structure, acidity and finish here. Drink: 2014 - 2020 508614 12.5% D 750 mL $93.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre Sparr Brut Méthode Traditionnelle Crémant D'alsace Rosé, Alsace A.C., France: Superb quality and taste for the price! Toasty with some field raspberry notes. Bone-dry and refreshing. Here's your summer party bubbly. Bring it on! A terrific producer and well-known in Alsace and around the world. This bubbly is made using the traditional champagne method from only pinot noir grapes. Crémant D'alsace Rosé food pairings: asparagus and linguine carbonara, pizza, cheddar dill puffs. Drink: 2012 - 2015 39016 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne, Champagne, France: Astoundingly great Champagne, toasty, creamy and rich like a wealthy low-maintenance boyfriend. The best non-vintage champagne in the liquor store -- none other can compete with this quality. From the makers of Cristal (see rap songs). Drink: 2014 - 2018 268771 12% XD 750 mL $68.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
M. Chapoutier Belleruche Blanc Grenache Blanc 2013, Cotes-Du-Rhone A.O.C., France: A full-bodied, mouth-filling white wine blend from the Rhone Valley that offers excellent value. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 245340 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château La Grave D'arzac Blanc 2013, Graves, Bordeaux A.C., France: A straight-forward lemon-grassy Bordeaux blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon grapes. Not much apparent oak. Lots of acidity for food. The ajubert family has been making wine for five generations. Graves, like neighbouring Margaux, has some of the same soils of excellent drainage. Food pairings: tossed green salad with salmon chunks. Drink: 2013 - 2016 206714 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 86/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pieropan Soave Classico 2013, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Crisp, fresh Italian white wine without oak. Loads of acidity. Lime fresh. Pair with vegetarian dishes, seafood or shellfish. Drink: 2014 - 2016 946848 12% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 86/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Featherstone Winery Canadian Oak Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is a good vintage for this Canadian Chardonnay aged in Canadian oak, which imparts a distinctive aroma and nuance. The wine was fermented with wild airborne yeasts and then the wine was aged in oak barrels made from trees that grow near the winery. Finishes with vanilla smoke. Drink: 2013 - 2017 149302 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Hervé Azo Chablis 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Crisp and clean unoaked Old World Chardonnay from northern Burgundy with a lime finish. Pair with roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 185736 12.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Marisco The King's Bastard Chardonnay 2012, Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A balanced, full-bodied New Zealand Chardonnay from the cool climate of Marlborough. Generous oak aging. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: pork tenderloin, stuffed roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 393694 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Green apple and lime aromas on the nose and palate of this unoaked Chardonnay, with lots of mouth-watering acidity. Unoaked Burgundian Chardonnay. Long finish. Pair with roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 124305 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Decoy Chardonnay 2013, Sonoma County, California, United States: Balanced and full-bodied with buttery richness and some green apple and white peach notes. Pair with roasted chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2017 311555 13.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Anne De Laweiss Vieilles Vignes Lieu-Dit Patergarten Pinot Gris 2013, Alsace A.C., France: Pretty and light and floral with some sweetness. Orange and clementine with fleshy peach. Good balancing acidity. Pair with glazed ham and chutney. Drink: 2013 - 2018 390682 13.5% M 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Dr. Bürklin-Wolf Estate Trocken Riesling 2012, Qualitätswein Pfalz, Germany: Bone-dry German Riesling that's unexpectedly refreshing and great! Petrol on the nose in the best sense, then great minerality and flint and acidity on the palate. Stone-fruit and a dry finish. From the Pzalz region. Drink: 2013 - 2020 991315 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Alpha Omega Unoaked Chardonnay 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Surprisingly rich and full-bodied Californian Chardonnay given the relatively low alcohol for this style and grape from the sunshine state. Rich and mouth-filling with aromas of Meyer lemon, butterscotch, apple and toffee from generous oak aging. Drink: 2013 - 2018 396432 12.9% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Framingham Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy great vibrancy in this New Zealand white wine! This expressive Sauvignon Blanc has a pop of citrus flavour on the palate and finish. Lots of acidity. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2016 606848 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Thierry Delaunay Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Loire A.C., France: Excellent Old World Sauvignon Blanc that has the herbal grassy power and concentration of a New World wine. Pure lime focus in this mouth-watering, medium-bodied French white wine. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 391847 12% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Château Du Trignon Le Bossu Viognier 2013, Côtes Du Rhone A.C., France: Intense and aromatic nose of rose petal and lychee and spices. Gorgeous. On the palate, very dry and not quite as expressive but still very pleasant. Pair with mild Asian dishes and curries. Drink: 2013 - 2018 394585 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Villa Maria Southern Clays Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lovely lime-herbal lift on the nose and palate of this vibrant New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Terrific complexity and concentration of pure citrus flavour here. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: variety of hard cheeses, stuffed roasted turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 388405 13% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Pierre André Meursault 2011, Burgundy A.C., France: Liquid gorgeous! Everything you want in a Burgundian Chardonnay: classic. Toasted almond and hazelnut with ripe peach and pear notes. Complex, concentrated and balanced. Drink: 2013 - 2019 732792 13.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Mike Weir Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This crisp and clean Niagara Sauvignon Blanc would be my wine pairing with Canadian goat cheese. It has a lemon freshness from the nose to the finish that would marry well with the grassy, meadowy notes of Woolwich Goat Cheese. This is a family-owned, Ontario-based cheese producer that specializes in goat cheeses, and also has some interesting variations on the theme such as Goat Brie and Chevrai. Love the pictures of the herd of goats on the site! This is also a New World take on the traditional match of Sancerre from the Loire Valley (Sauvignon Blanc) and chevre, the French name for goat cheese. I'd also pair this white wine with fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2016 686972 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Calliope Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Okanagan Valley, BC V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant BC white wine made in a modern, clean and refreshing style from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Lime citrus lift through the mid-palate with a lemon kick on the finish. Great as an aperitif or pair with a wide variety of salads, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: fresh seafood or shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2016 133215 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Gewurztraminer food pairings: lighter-flavoured sea-food dishes, Asian dishes, curries. Drink: 2013 - 2018 747600 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese 2012, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: Apricot and peach ripeness with layers of honey richness in this glorious aromatic and flavourful German Riesling. Lovely balance with a sunshine finish. Attractive apricot aromas balance the silver seam of acidity running through this wine. Pair with fresh seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2019 336396 8% MS 750 mL $28.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2012, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County, California, United States: Butterscotch and baked bread on the nose of this inviting, robust Californian Chardonnay. The palate of this rich white wine opens up with green apple and melon. Full-bodied, generous and delicious! Pair this with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled chicken, shellfish, beef bourguignon, cheese, egg dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 59576 13.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Jackson-Triggs Delaine Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This is the top Single Vineyard site from Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate, the Niagara River sub-appellation. A lovely balanced and rich Chardonnay filled with ripe aromas and flavours of melons and pears. Finishes with toasty oak and butterscotch. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: chicken kiev, shellfish, beef bourguignon, cheese, egg dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 623454 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Lingenfelder Bird Label Riesling 2012, Qualitätswein, Pfalz, Germany: Magnificent for the price point! Floral with fleshy ripe peach yet airy and refreshing. Medium-bodied with a peach blossom finish. Slight sweetness lends food versatility, yet it's not at all cloying. Winemaker Rainer Lingenfelder has created an outstanding Riesling here that will appeal to many palates. This "Bird Label" is part of his Vineyard Creatures series. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: Thai or Indian dishes, melons, soft cheese, curries. Drink: 2013 - 2016 568634 10.5% M 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: A lovely Californian Chardonnay with enticing notes of white peaches, pear, green apple, almond and smoke. Full-bodied and dry. This classic chard is one of California's best, and the featured wine in the movie Bottleshock, based on the true story of the Judgment of Paris, when this US winery placed ahead of French wines in a blind tasting. See for yourself the quality in the glass. Try this lovely white wine with roast chicken or turkey tonight. Chardonnay food pairings: basil pesto, prawn bisque, stuffed chicken breast, beef bourguignon, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2019 701748 13.7% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 93/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Treana Marsanne Viognier 2011, Central Coast, California, United States: Hope Family Wines produces this full-bodied Californian white wine blend of tradition Rhone Valley grapes, such as Viognier and Marsanne. Love the richness and the viscous texture! Dried pineapple and apricot with layers and layers of lapping pleasure. Full-bodied with a long finish. Pair with roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 11247 14.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. December 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Konrad Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Love the profusion of aromas on the nose of this zippy New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc! This is a consistently good producer of kiwi savvy, and this particular vintage brings with it aromas of spring peas, limes, lemongrass and that summertime favourite of a freshly mowed lawn. Marlborough is a go-to region for Sauvignon Blanc. Marlborough is renowned for Sauvignon Blanc, and the grapes for this one are planted in alluvial soils which get more than 2,500 of sunshine hours a year. Cool nights keep the balance and acidity in the wine. Harvested from two family vineyards in the Wairau and Waihopai Valleys. The 2013 vintage fermented mostly in stainless steel tanks, but a very small amount was barrel-fermented. Try it with spinach quiche tonight. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: sea bass, pan seared chicken, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 171768 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.80 Score: 92/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Vineland Estates Winery St. Urban Riesling 2012, 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. Riesling food pairings: shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate, eggs benedict, planked salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2019 38117 8.4% MD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
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. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled pork chops, stuffed chicken breast, beef bourguignon, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 317131 14% D 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. December 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart