Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release May 16, 2015

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Dessert Wine

Château De Myrat 2011, Barsac, Bordeaux A.C., France: This second growth (2e cru) offers notes of apricot jam, baking spice and clementine. Pair with crème brûlée. Food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2014 - 2019 297028 13% S 375 mL $24.85 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cockburn's Quinta Dos Canais Vintage Port 2000, Douro D.O.P., Portugal: The vintage of 2000 was a warm one for Portugal, and Port wines. This vintage-dated Port offers aromas of blackberry pie, anise, prunes and mocha. Food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2015 - 2025 335380 20% S 750 mL $39.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

C.H. Berres Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese Riesling 2012, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: A lovely, unctuous dessert wine with aromas of apricot tart and baking spices. Riesling food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2013 - 2019 408583 9.5% S 375 mL $33.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Jim Barry Wines The Lodge Hill Shiraz 2012, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: A top-notch shiraz with aromas of fleshy blackberry and mint. Juicy, smooth and full-bodied. Very tasty. Perfect for hamburgers, pizza and steak. The grapes for this wine are grown in vineyards at an elevation of 480 metres above sea level which imparts great elegance and balance to this full-bodied red wine. Elegance meets decadence in the glass. Shiraz food pairings: pizza, barbecued beef, pork, grilled or spice-rubbed chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 998476 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Family Tree Red 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Mocha and dark chocolate on the nose of this full-bodied, smooth red wine from generous oak aging. Supple and smooth and very accessible. Flavours of fleshy ripe black plums. Nice price. Food pairings: grilled pork ribs, steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 247882 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run The Certain Ratio 2012, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Smooth and full-bodied red wine blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Franc. Attractive aromas and flavours of dark fruit and smoke in this County wine. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2018 415554 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Valle Las Acequias Luis Segundo Correas Oak Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: A terrific full-bodied Argentine wine for the money! Robust, generous aromas and flavours of blackberries and black plums. There's toasty oak and dark chocolate on the finish with some notes of blackberry preserves. Vanilla spice gives it a kick. This red wine was aged in French oak for 10 months, which gives it an inviting toasty character. The Malbec grapes are grown on 85-year-old low vines and the wine spends 10 months in French oak, 6 months in bottle before being released. Try it with a pepper steak tonight. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, pasta. Drink: 2012 - 2016 138412 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

E. Guigal 2011, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Robust, black and brooding southern French red wine, with incredible concentration and depth. Toasty oak and lots of rich, tarry notes. Needs cellar time and decant 2 hours. Classic Old World styling, balance and finesse. Finishes with black olive, anise, and dried herbs. Pair with lamb and rosemary. Food pairings: lamb cutlets with pepperade and goat cheese, hamburgers, pizza, black bean soup, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2019 413252 13% XD 375 mL $10.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut Peyraud 2010, Blaye Côtes De Bordeaux A.C., France: Aromas of black fruit, oak, smoke. Straight-forward, full-bodied and rustic. Decant 1 hour and pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 413948 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Liberty School Zinfandel 2012, Pasa Robles, California, United States: This robust Californian red wine offers attractive aromas of sweet purple plums and blueberries and coffee mocha toast from oak aging. It's succulent, smooth, lip-smacking delicious and full-bodied. Lots of juicy black raspberry on the finish will have you coming back for another top up. The winery practises aggressive canopy management, trimming back the leaves and vegetation on the vines so that more nutrients go to the grapes, which in turn become more concentrated in flavour. This is a terrific wine for movie night, especially if you're having meat lovers' or pepperoni pizza. Finishes with black plums and dark spice. What better robust red wine for barbecued and grilled meats? Good value too. Zinfandel food pairings: hamburgers, cheese, game, Mexican dishes, pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 41095 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Carabella Estate Pinot Noir 2012, Chehalem Mountains, Oregon, United States: Candied cherry dipped in chocolate from oak aging. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with hamburgers and sweet relish. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled lamb sirloin with cocoa rub, veal chops, grilled duck sausages, grilled pork tenderloin with cauliflower purée and cherry compote. Drink: 2014 - 2017 180125 14.4% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meandro Do Vale Meão 2012, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: The Douro region continues to impress me with the rising quality of its dry table wines like this one. Meandro do Vale Meão is Quinta do Vale Meão's second wine, and it's produced by F. Olazabal & Filhos with the same meticulous attention to detail as the flagship wine. Robust, concentrated and deep, this red wine has so much to offer alongside a juicy steak. OTHER: Quinta Meandro do Vale began in the late 1800s as the passion project of Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, owner of the largest winemaking estate in the Douro at that time. Her great-great-great-grandson Francisco Javier de Olazabal has managed the estate since the 1970s. This wine blends 38% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Franca, 20% Tinta Roriz and a handful of other varieties, all trodden by foot in the old-school way before being vinified in stainless steel and aged in French Allier oak barriques. Look for a complex array of dark berry and plum fruits, spices, and tarry notes. (VINTAGES panel, undated.) Food pairings: pizza topped with meat. Drink: 2014 - 2018 244731 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Graticcio Appassimento 2013, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Fleshy ripe purple plums and blueberries on this Italian red wine. Extra richness and juiciness from the Appassimento style of winemaking. Full-bodied but not heavy. Finishes with leather, dried herbs and dark fruit with smoke. Perfect for hamburgers and meat lovers' pizza. Food pairings: hamburgers, pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 338939 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quivira Reserve Zinfandel 2012, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Full-bodied with black fruit and a savoury bite. Great with grilled burgers. Zinfandel food pairings: pizza, lamb kabobs, nachos, turkey and cranberry sauce, barbecue ribs. Drink: 2013 - 2017 394494 14.5% XD 750 mL $44.00 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

El Enemigo Malbec 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Purple and black plums flavours with lots of mocha and chocolate from lavish oak aging. Short finish. Pair with hamburgers. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, pasta. Drink: 2014 - 2016 400150 13.9% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

San Michele Castellani Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Iron-rich, cedar rustic Italian red wine. Medium-bodied, supple and easy drinking. 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. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo 2010, Guadalupe Valley, Baja California, Mexico: After Italian producers, this Mexican winery is the world’s largest producer of wines made from the Nebbiolo grape. A mouthful of ripe berry and black fruits rewards drinkers of this supple, robust wine. Incredible concentration and depth. Pair with grilled meats. Incredibly great price for such quality and taste. Nebbiolo food pairings: hearty meats, pasta in tomato sauce, cheddar cheese, risotto with mushrooms, beef braised in barolo. Drink: 2011 - 2017 590182 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Di Majo Norante 2013, Terra Degli Osci, Molise I.G.T., Italy: Solid Italian red wine for the money. Rich, dark and bursting with black fruit flavour and mocha and dark chocolate from oak aging. Supple and full-bodied and ready to go now. Crack one open on the next movie night. Pair with roast beef or meat lasagna. Food pairings: braised pork shoulder in Chianti sauce, slow-roasted lamb shank. Drink: 2014 - 2017 591974 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coppi Peucetico Primitivo 2008, Gioia Del Colle, Puglia, Italy: Deep plushly ripe purple and black plum aromas on the nose with some blueberry jam on the palate. It's full-bodied and dry with layers of voluptuous dark fruit. Perfect for meat lovers' pizza and meat sauce pasta. This Primitivo (aka Zinfandel) offers dark spice and vanilla smoke on the finish. Gioia del Colle is nestled in the centre of the Puglia region and is known as the Italian heart of Primitivo. In the 1700s, a local priest named these grapes with a Latin word, Primitivo, which means "first to ripen." Pair with bolognese or salami and charcuterie . Primitivo food pairings: veal scaloppini in a sun-dried tomato sauce, salad, pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2016 19006 13.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De Gourgazaud Cuvée Mathilde Minervois 2013, Midi A.C., France: Lots of dark spice and pepper on the nose of this well-priced southern French red wine. Aromas of dark fruit. very smooth on the palate and almost full-bodied. Pair with pork chops. Food pairings: barbecued hamburgers, lamb chops. Drink: 2014 - 2017 958629 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

MontGras ANTU Ninquén Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère 2013, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Very nicely balanced, smooth, full-bodied Chilean Cabernet. Aromas of dark fruit and toasty oak. Finishes with woodsmoke, graphite and dark spices. Firm tannins so decant 1-2 hours. Great campfire wine, or pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenère food pairings: beef ribs, lamb burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 59329 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pinyolet Garnacha 2012, Montsant D.O., Spain: Full-bodied with black fruit and toasty oak. Well-priced for the taste and quality. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Garnacha food pairings: braised beef dishes, turkey, soft cheese, roasted pork, lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2017 271791 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hess Family Estates Artezin Zinfandel 2012, Mendocino County, California, United States: Generous aromas of sweet purple plums, blackberry, blueberry and brambleberry with some underbrush as a backdrop. While this is a big wine, it's also balanced and elegant. Finishes with blackberry and black raspberry, notes with a hint of vanilla. Start a romance with this wine. Lip-smacking delicious. Zinfandel food pairings: pizza, lamb kabobs, nachos, turkey and cranberry sauce, barbecue ribs. Drink: 2013 - 2017 4887 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Don David Reserve Malbec 2012, Calchaquí Valley, Salta, Argentina: Especially gorgeous for the price: this is my new party wine. Wow. Rich blackberry and black plum with mouth-watering juiciness and satisfying full-bodied weight. Winemaker Michel Torino is much-respected for his robust, flavourful Malbec wines made in the Cafayate region of northern Argentina. Some of his vineyards are planted at the highest elevations above sea level for viticulture worldwide, which gives them an extra dimension of balance and complexity. Pair with gourmet hamburgers tonight. Malbec food pairings: steak, sausages. Drink: 2013 - 2017 64998 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hall Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with rich black fruit flavours. A bit hot on the nose from the high alcohol at 14.9%. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 273391 14.9% XD 750 mL $107.00 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cade Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Mocha and dark chocolate nose from oak aging. Surprisingly smooth and supple on the palate. Just barely full-bodied. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 296509 14.5% XD 750 mL $205.00 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Querceto Di Castellina L'aura Chianti Classico 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Firm tannic grip so decant 2 hours. Savoury, meaty, satisfying. Aromas of black fruit and smoke. Needs a fire-grilled steak and a man growl. Chianti Classico food pairings: bucatini with sausage and peas, roast beef, pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 405019 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Maison Chanzy Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Du Roy 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Lovely cherry and fresh earth on the nose of this medium-boded, smooth and supple premier cru (1er cru) Burgundian Pinot Noir. Slightly reduced on the finished, but perhaps it will open up with some air time. Pair with seared tuna. Food pairings: rack of lamb, pork roast, duck. Drink: 2013 - 2017 408161 13% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: Sweet chocolate and mocha on the nose from oak aging along with fleshy sweet blackberries. Full-bodied and smooth. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2017 461053 14.1% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tedeschi Capitel San Rocco Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Juicy purple plums flavours along with fleshy blackberry and blueberry. Full-bodied, smooth and mouth-watering. Not tannic. Reminds me (almost) of a juicy Californian zinfandel. Pair with grilled meats and happiness. Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore food pairings: pizza topped with steak strips and garlic, spicy sausage , prime rib roast, hearty winter stew. Drink: 2014 - 2018 719294 14.5% D 750 mL $22.25 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rocca delle Macìe Riserva Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A dark, mouth-watering Italian red wine with black fruit and toasty almost charred oak. Lots of black fruit and mocha. Pair with grilled meats. Chianti Classico food pairings: bucatini (pasta) with sausage and peas, roast beef, pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 930966 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wente Vineyards Charles Wetmore Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay, California, United States: Full-bodied, smooth and elegant with Old World restraint. Not fruit forward. More structure and earthy notes than big berry flavours. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 963397 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.25 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Full-bodied, with black fruit, Savoury, juicy, firm grip. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin, hamburger, hard cheese, grilled lamb chops, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 38075 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jonata La Sangre De Jonata Syrah 2008, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, United States: Campfire hickory smoke and toasty oak with vanilla spice from generous oak aging. Some black fruit underneath then it finishes with more smoke and dark spice. Syrah food pairings: grilled bison strip steaks, spice-braised lamb, rare roast beef, chargrilled pork chop, burgers with blue cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 220517 14.9% D 750 mL $247.00 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Susana Balbo Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied and supple Argentine red wine, with aromas of black fruit and dark chocolate. Great value for this quality. Produced by Dominio Del Plata, Susanna Balboa is one of the country's most respected vintners. The wine is mostly (95%) Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from three regions in Mendoza, plus there is another 5% of Malbec grapes. Classic cabernet: it has solid structure and could benefit from decanting for 2 hours. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: gourmet burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2018 260919 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marchesi Mazzei Zisola Nero D'avola 2011, Sicily I.G.T., Italy: Terrific black fruit aromas and espresso notes on the nose and palate of this southern Italian red wine made from Sicily's iconic red wine grape Nero d'Avola. Some anise and pepper on the finish. Lushly weighted and fulsome with lots of layers of pleasure. Pair with grilled chicken or roast beef. Nero D'avola food pairings: slow-roasted rump roast with root vegetables, herbed chicken, brisket. Drink: 2012 - 2017 303925 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wakefield Shiraz 2013, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Solid and full-bodied with big black fruit aromas on this robust Australian red wine made from Shiraz grapes. Tarry, spicy and peppery. Juicy and mouthwatering. This full-bodied Australian Shiraz offers notes of black fruit and pepper. Finishes with aromas of violets, black fruit as well as with vanilla smoke from aging in American oak barrels. Pair with hamburgers or BBQ ribs. Shiraz food pairings: hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 943787 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marques de Casa Concha Concha Y Toro Carmenere 2012, Peumo, Rapel Valley, Chile: This savoury and juicy red wine, features big black plum and berry aromas and flavours. Full-bodied and smooth carmenere. Offers incredible quality and taste for the price. Try it with a hearty meat dish. Lovely dark spices and black plums on the nose of this robust red wine. Decant for 1-2 hours. Carmenere food pairings: spicy red meats,  tomato-based dishes, rare steak,  dark chocolate. Drink: 2013 - 2017 169862 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

2005, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Smokey and tanned leather and charred plums in a great way. Mature, love it! Savoury, meaty and dark spice earth. Drink: 2012 - 2017 206409 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tahbilk Shiraz 2010, Nagambie Lakes, Central Victoria, Australia: A full-bodied and mouth-watering Australian red wine made from the country's classic red grape Shiraz. Lots of black fruit and toasty oak on the nose and palate. Robust, with a dry, smoky finish. This big red is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. Savoury, meaty, juicy. Fire up the barbecue! Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, hamburgers, pork with soy. Drink: 2012 - 2017 214742 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yalumba The Strapper Gsm 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied, lusciously rich and deep with a terrific long finish. Aromas of fleshy sweet dark fruit, a hint of pepper and savoury goodness. Mouth-watering and delicious. Dense, complex and concentrated with black fruit, anise, violets and spices. Amazing quality for the price. Terrific with grilled pork shops, beef or lamb with rosemary. Food pairings: slow-braised beef cheek, lamb shanks, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2013 - 2019 295873 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Troteligotte K-Or Malbec 2012, Cahors, Southwest A.C., France: A vibrant and full-bodied southern French red wine made from Malbec grapes. There's a very firm tannic grip on the palate here so decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with a protein rich hearty dish. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, pasta. Drink: 2014 - 2019 299982 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine L'ostal Cazes Grand Vin 2011, Minervois La Livinière, Midi A.C., France: Intriguing and delicious flavours and aromas of black and purple plum, dark tart and fleshy ripe berries, smoke and dried herbs. Complex, rich and deep. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2020 413021 14.5% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lapostolle Cuvée Alexandre Apalta Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Colchugua Valley, Chile: A full-bodied Chilean red with a towering structure, great depth of black fruit and tar flavour and a good grip on the palate. Decant for 2 hours for maximum pleasure. Long finish. Could use cellar time to mellow and integrate. Finishes with notes of blackcurrant and cedar smoke. Pair with a rare steak tonight. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: rare steak, beef braised in red wine. Drink: 2014 - 2019 947929 14.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

D'arenberg The Love Grass Shiraz 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A vibrant, full-bodied Australian red wine with aromas of black plums, smoke and a hint of mint. This is a red wine blend of mostly Shiraz grapes, the country's flagship red varietal. However, winemaker Chester Osborn also adds small portions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo and Pinot Noir grapes to add complexity, depth and richness. You gotta love the name of this wine: pair with a romantic dinner or movies requiring a kleenex box. Shiraz food pairings: ribeye steak, pepperoni pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2018 48785 14.2% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Crema Pinot Noir 2013, Los Carneros, California, United States: Beautifully balanced and vibrant. Ripe and tart cherry aromas: love that this doesn't lead with chocolate for oak aging. Thank-you. Pinot Noir food pairings: grilled lamb sirloin with cocoa rub, veal chops, grilled duck sausages, grilled pork tenderloin with cauliflower purée and cherry compote. Drink: 2014 - 2019 58024 14.5% XD 750 mL $45.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rufus Stone Tyrell's Shiraz 2012, Heathcote, Victoria, Australia: Classic blackberry richness touched by a mint fresh breeze on this Australian red wine. Full-bodied and mouth-watering, juicy fun. The 2012 growing season provided excellent conditions and the Tyrrell family make the most of the Heathcote region's soil and climate in their wines. Polish tannins, long finish. Pair with prime rib. Shiraz food pairings: lamb, beef and game dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2017 91488 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Recchia Masùa Di Jago Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2011, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: A gorgeous Amarone with the most seductive nose I've smelled in a long time: black fleshy fruit that tease the senses and caress the tongue ... over and over and over again. Again please. Insatiable. Yes. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: polenta dishes, venison, beef daube, leg of lamb, pasta with tomato sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2022 362921 16% D 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

E. Guigal 2009, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: The 2009 vintage of this Châteauneuf du Pape is robust and fully flavoured with blackberry liqueur and smoke. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2015 - 2021 727503 14% XD 750 mL $69.00 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henschke Henry's Seven 2013, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: This robust Australian red wine is a blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Viognier. Gorgeously ripe blackberry and plum aromas are lifted and highlighted in the mid-palate with the Viognier. Wonderful balance and complexity with a smooth and hugely satisfying finish. Pair with roast beef. Food pairings: grilled meats and vegetables, beef stew, meat lover's pizza, barbecued ribs. Drink: 2014 - 2019 198621 14.5% XD 750 mL $42.95 Score: 93/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine La Fourmone Le Fauquet Gigondas 2012, Rhône A.P., France: Seductive liquid satin. You'd never guess that this full-bodied, balanced Rhone red wine clocks in at 15% alcohol. Black cherry liqueur wrapped lovingly in dried herbs and dark spices and mystery. Oh yum. Drink: 2014 - 2021 380618 15% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 94/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosés

Château Bellevue La Forêt Rosé 2014, Fronton, Southwest A.C., France: Brought to us by Philip Grant, Proprietor, this dry, very elegant, lovely French rosé offers everything you want: great rosehip-dry cherry taste yet not overbearing. The iron and quartz content of the gravel soils in which the vines for this wine are planted are perfectly suited to the Négrette grapes used for this wine. Very balanced rosé with outdoorsy, meadow fresh aromas, including wild berries. Spectacularly great price! Perfect aperitif or companion to seafood or cold chicken sandwiches. Drink: 2014 - 2016 219840 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Somontes Rosado 2014, Serra Da Estrela, Dão D.O.C., Portugal: Highly perfumed floral on this rose with rose petal and lavender. Dry with some strawberry blossom on the finish. Food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish, fresh fruit, veggies. Drink: 2014 - 2016 13% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Delas Frères Saint-Esprit Rosé 2014, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Dry and refreshing with notes of fleeting strawberries on a summer breeze. Lovely salmon pink colour here on this bone-dry French rosé. Finishes with strawberries and rhubarb. Pair with pate or cold chicken sandwiches beside yonder babbling brook. Rosé food pairings: summer salads, grilled chicken breast, calamari, grilled white fish. Drink: 2014 - 2016 224964 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Tour De L’Eveque Rosé 2014, Provence A.C., France: This lively French rosé not only offers wild strawberry notes, it also has a little white pepper for intrigue and pleasure. Medium-bodied, dry and some kind of wonderful from Régine Sumeire, Propreitor-récolt. One of the most respected rosé producers in Provence: consistently great year after year. This bone-dry rosé is a blend of 64% Grenache, 29% Cinsault, 4% Syrah, 2% Rolle and 1% Sémillon grapes. Please pass the pate. Rosé food pairings: pasta, smoked salmon, sausages, grilled pork. Drink: 2014 - 2016 319392 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. May 2015. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Megalomaniac Wines Pink Slip Rosé 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very aromatic: big pink flavours up front, think pink grapefruit, pinkish peach and strawberries. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering. Great for the price. Rosé food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish, fresh fruit, veggies. Drink: 2014 - 2016 85126 12% M 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut Cap Classique Sparkling Wine 2012, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Absolutely stunning South African sparkling wine for the money! Toasty, complex and refreshing. Aromas of baked bread and green apple. Wow. Finishes with white peach. Enjoy as an aperitif or pair with fresh shellfish. Sparkling Wine food pairings: sourdough toasts with mushrooms and oysters. Drink: 2013 - 2016 342758 12.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Delouvin-Bagnost Tradition Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: Very yeasty, bready Champagne almost beer-like on the nose. Robust with mouth-watering acidity. This is a value-driven non-vintage champagne. Pair this sparkling wine with fresh seafood. Finishes with brioche, vanilla, and green apple. Great persistence of bubbles. This Récoltant-Manipulant Champagne is a classic blend of all three Champagne grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Pair with fried chicken for an extra treat tonight. Drink: 2013 - 2018 385369 12% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Vinum Africa Chenin Blanc 2012, Stellenbosch, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: This seductive South African Chenin Blanc is produced by The Winery Of Good Hope. It features fleshy peach and toasty oak on the nose. Full-bodied with lots of mouth-watering acidity for food. Great! Almost as superb as the 2010 vintage of this wine. Chenin Blanc food pairings: seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2017 739995 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Calamus Estate Winery Pinot Gris 2015, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Niagara Pinot Gris is very soft and not much on the nose. Suitable sipper for when you're in a mindless mood. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , pasta with cream sauce, cheeses, salads. Drink: 2017 - 2018 349456 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 83/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bergstrom Old Stones Chardonnay 2011, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Bright and vibrant lemon acidity on the palate. Think green apple and lime mouth-watering action. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, beef bourguignon, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin, cheese. Drink: 2012 - 2017 410753 13.4% XD 750 mL $42.00 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro Pinot Grigio 2013, Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: A vibrant Pinot Grigio packed with character. This northern Italian white wine offers notes of lime and lemon zest. Pinot Grigio food pairings: oysters on the half-shell, pasta in cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, pork burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 317867 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Backyard Block Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Creek Shores, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: More matchstick on the nose, campfire, smoky with some white fruit underneath. Pair with smoked salmon. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, oysters on the half shell, pan-fried freshwater fish. Drink: 2015 - 2017 341792 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rapaura Springs Pinot Gris 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A zesty New Zealand Pinot Gris with notes or lime and lemon sunshine. Good mouth-watering acidity for a range of dishes from field greens to shellfish. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , pasta with cream sauce, cheeses, salads. Drink: 2013 - 2016 393702 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Legends Terroir Pinot Gris 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: White melon and fresh aromas of spring flowers and rain. Great aperitif or pair with fresh seafood. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , pasta with cream sauce, cheeses, salads. Drink: 2013 - 2016 415844 12.5% D 750 mL $17.55 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Pinot Gris 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: OTHER: This impressive PG rides the line where subtle elegance meets robust flavour with pinpoint precision. Gentle spice notes accent the lemon peel and mineral characteristics, gliding on a soft texture and fresh acidity toward a clean, dry finish. Fans of both the Italian and Alsatian archetypes of this varietal should enjoy this little beauty. (VINTAGES panel, March 2014) Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , pasta with cream sauce, cheeses, salads. Drink: 2013 - 2017 522979 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

William Fèvre Saint-Bris 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Clean, green apple brightness on the nose and acidity on the palate. No oak, very refreshing. Usually white wines from Burgundy are made from the chardonnay grape, so this is a refreshing change with sauvignon blanc. There's only the one producer of this wine in Saint-Bris, about 10 miles southeast of Chablis. Finishes with wet stone, Granny Smith apple and chives. Enjoy with vegetarian dishes and seafood. Food pairings: ratatouille, grilled white fish with a lemon-dill sauce, squash soup, salad, chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2017 626523 12% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stoneleigh Latitude Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Gorgeous aromas of lime blossom, gooseberry, pink grapefruit and a delicate hint and finesse of white flowers. Lovely citrus lift throughout: this is not a grassy Sauvignon Blanc. Lots of elegance and refinement yet also beautifully refreshing. Try it with seafood, salads, spinach quiche and vegetarian dishes. Also a mind-blowing aperitif. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: seafood, salads, spinach quiche and vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2017 324228 13.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frog's Leap Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Intense lemon vibrancy on the nose and palate, which also offers green apple tartness. Assertive mouth-watering acidity. Crisp and refreshing with nuances of long wispy grass in a fresh spring rain. Finishes with green apple and lime tang. Try it with vegetarian dishes. This Californian Sauvignon Blanc is produced by a winery founded in 1981 by John Williams and Larry Turley. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: bell peppers, cheeses, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage. Drink: 2014 - 2017 966036 13.4% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Champy Signature Bourgogne 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Stunning Burgundian Chardonnay for the money! Gorgeous full-bodied French white wine with buttery goodness wrapping itself around a core of vibrant green apple fruit. Not heavy, just generous. Pair with chicken in a cream sauce. Food pairings: turkey burgers, crab cakes, chicken breast, lobster in butter sauce, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 43455 13% XD 750 mL $24.00 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Finca El Origen Reserva Torrontés 2014, Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina: White floral aromas and a profusion of peach-pear happiness on the nose of this Argentine white wine. Try this wine made from the lesser-known Torrontes grape if you haven't and open your world to more happiness. The grapes are grown in Argentina’s Salta region. Finishes with white peach and lime blossom. Pair with mild to medium spicy dishes and curries. Torrontés food pairings: lobster salad with Meyer lemon and grilled asparagus. Drink: 2014 - 2017 262089 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tyrrell's Wines Brookdale Semillon 2013, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: Lemon freshness in a glass with a lovely rich lanolin texture. The perfect wine that is stylistically between sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. There is no oak fermentation or aging to stay true to that signature. Lots of lemon and lime on the finish. Drink with fresh seafood or shellfish. Semillon food pairings: seafood, salads, Asian Dishes, biscotti, pasta with cheese-based sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2019 269316 11% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Chardonnay 2013, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Love this style of South African chardonnay. Toasty and rich but also mouth-watering and vibrant: it's got it all. This wine was aged in 40% new and 60% second-use oak barrels for a year. Toasted almond and green apple on the nose with lime-orange citrus on the palate. Balanced and lovely with a long finish. Wow! Pair with grilled chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: turkey burgers, crab cakes, chicken breast, lobster in butter sauce, cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 598631 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay 2016, Napa Valley, California, United States: Classic California Chardonnay with green apple and toasty oak aromas. Try with roast chicken. Vanilla smoke and dried apricot on the finish of this full-bodied white wine. Pair with oven roasted chicken or slow baked dishes. Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken, scallops with a sesame ginger dressing, beef bourguignon, breads, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2020 709717 14.3% XD 750 mL $73.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gustave Lorentz Réserve Riesling 2013, Alsace A.C., France: This dry, balanced Alsatian Riesling offers aromas of white flowers, pear, and stonefruit. Deep core of minerality and refreshment. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: roasted chicken, spicy pasta dishes, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate, cheese. 641639 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Cave du Coudray Réserve Du Chiron Sèvre Et Maine Muscadet 2013, Loire A.C., France: This wine was aged sur lie: bottled without filtering or fining the sediment giving the wine a more mouth-filling, creamier texture and taste. Muscadet food pairings: eggs Benedict, leeks, green pepper, green salad, shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 413757 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pierre Sparr Réserve Pinot Gris 2013, Alsace A.C., France: A lovely, sunlit wine with attractive aromas of ripe peach and pear. The moderate sweetness is perfectly balanced with refreshing acidity so this wine will be divine with Asian and spicy dishes as well as those with some sweetness like glazed ham. Pinot Gris food pairings: chicken and noodles in a light Thai peanut sauce, pan-seared scallops in garlic and butter. Drink: 2013 - 2017 983395 13.5% MD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Gewürztraminer 2013, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Classic BC gewurz with aromas of lychee, rose petal and baking spices. Full-bodied and delicious. The 2013 vintage of the Gray Monk Gewürztraminer has a lovely pale golden hue in the glass. Finishes with Asian pear, lychee and roses. Perfect for Asian dishes, curries and spicy dishes. Gewürztraminer food pairings: mildly spiced Asian cuisine. Drink: 2015 - 2018 321588 12.6% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Matetic Corralillo Sauvignon Blanc 2014, San Antonio Valley, Chile: Grassy gloriously: Love this! Herbals and refreshing and the Platonic ideal of green. Chives and some grapefruit. Perfect for salads and seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken and sage skewers, fresh tomato and basil salad, oysters on the half shell, pan-fried freshwater fish. Drink: 2014 - 2016 347740 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio 2014, Südtirol-Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: Pinot Grigio is usually not this aromatic, which makes this wine both unusual and terrific! Aromas of green pear, golden apple, lime and grapefruit. This is outstanding northern Italian Pinot Grigio. Some white pear and stony minerality on the palate. Medium-bodied and thirst-quenching: perfect as an aperitif or companion to seafood or shellfish. Highly recommended. Pinot Grigio food pairings: salad, seafood, shellfish, chicken cacciatore, spaghetti. Drink: 2014 - 2017 954024 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yalumba Viognier 2013, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Deep, resonant Viognier for those not afraid of flavour. Dare you! Beautiful and exotic with white floral notes in this vibrant white wine. It's smooth yet characterful in the mouth. Some apricot-peach on the finish. This vibrant Australian white wine is made from 100% indigenous yeasts. Kudos to winemaker Louisa Rose. Try this style and compare it to those from the Rhone region of Condrieu. Perfect for mild curries and spicy dishes, or fresh seafood. Viognier food pairings: mild curries, shellfish, ham, poultry, Emmental cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 233220 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.20 Score: 93/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kistler Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay 2013, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: Toasted almond on the nose with some butterscotch. Wakes up the senses on the palate with great acidity and green apple vibrancy. Most Kistler Chardonnays are sourced from a single vineyard but this is the winery's only multi-vineyard site Chardonnay. Chardonnay food pairings: panko-crusted grilled chicken, salmon steaks, basil pesto, prawn bisque, cheese fondue. Drink: 2014 - 2019 183921 14.1% XD 750 mL $121.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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