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Wine Picks December 17, 2021

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

Austria

Weingut Weinrieder Reserve Old Vines Gruner Veltliner 2016, Austria Drink: 2021 - 2025 932268 13% D 750 mL $54.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Loimer Grüner Veltliner 2019, Kamptal D.A.C., Austria: Loimer 2019 Grüner Veltliner is a medium-bodied, crisp and lemon-zesty Gruner with ripe stone fruit, yellow apple, green herbs, grassy, ginger and pepper spice flavours with a vibrant briny mineral and citrus zest finish. The wine was aged on its fine lees for four months adding structure and creaminess to the wine. Grüner Veltliner food pairings: linguini with rose sauce, creamy green herb risotto, asparagus with fried egg. Drink: 2021 - 2025 142240 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. December 2021. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Weingut Weinrieder Birthal Weissburgunder 2017, Niederösterreich, Weinland, Austria Drink: 2021 - 2025 932250 13% D 750 mL $25.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Weingut Weinrieder Reserve Riesling 2017, Niederösterreich, Austria Drink: 2021 - 2030 932227 13.5% MD 750 mL $60.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Weingut Weinrieder Old Vines Gruner Veltliner, Niederösterreich, Austria 932235 13.5% D 750 mL $37.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Weingut Weinrieder Ried Bockgarten Riesling 2018, Niederösterreich, Austria Drink: 2021 - 2026 932193 13% D 750 mL $27.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Schlumberger Sekt Reserve Chardonnay Brut Austrian Sparkling, Niederösterreich, Austria Chardonnay Brut Austrian Sparkling food pairings: grilled seafood, summer salad with chicken and freshly picked herbs. 11.5% D 750 mL $33.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Big Head Wines Chenin Blanc 2020, Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario, V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 13.5% D 750 mL $24.80 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: shrimp or lobster pasta, goat’s cheese or oysters. Drink: 2021 - 2023 12% D 750 mL $32.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Oxley Estate Winery Pinot Gris 2020, Lake Erie North Shore, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 12% D 750 mL $19.15 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lakeview Cellars Vidal Icewine 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Vidal Icewine food pairings: almond tarte, fruit flan, peach cobbler. Drink: 2021 - 2029 522672 12% S 200 mL $22.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosewood Gewcci 2019, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: roast chicken, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, scallops and seafood. Drink: 2021 - 2025 13.5% XD 750 mL $40.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Organized Crime Sacrilege Skin Fermented White 2020, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Skin Fermented White food pairings: shellfish, seafood salads, sushi, tempura vegetables. Drink: 2021 - 2023 12.8% D 750 mL $25.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huff Estates Winery Catharine’s South Bay Chardonnay 2019, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 88955 12% D 750 mL $35.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Adamo Estate Wismer Foxcroft Vineyard Oaked Chardonnay 2017, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 12.5% D 750 mL $26.50 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Honsberger Estate Chardonnay Musqué 2020, Creek Shores, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 13% XD 750 mL $24.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Reif First Growth Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Niagara River, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A blockbuster Niagara Cabernet Sauvignon that needs more cellar time. Aromas of black plum and black cherry liqueur with a seducative weave of smoke. Supple. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2020 - 2030 17500 14.5% D 750 mL $100.20 Score: 92/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Niagara Rosé 2020, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The 2020 Gretzky Rosé is a vibrant blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio. Notes of field berries and a touch of spice. Zesty and crisp and mouth-watering. Pair this with crab cakes, gazpacho, cold cuts and charcuterie. Rosé food pairings: seasoned pork tenderloin, crabcakes, creamy chicken carbonara. Drink: 2021 - 2022 14870 12% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trius Red The Icon 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: grilled steak, tourtière, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2021 - 2026 303800 13.7% XD 750 mL $27.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Redstone Limestone Vineyard South Riesling 2019, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Riesling food pairings: scallop ceviche, white fish with mango salsa, salt and pepper shrimp skewers. Drink: 2021 - 2026 381251 10.5% M 750 mL $18.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Rooster Winery Riesling Icewine 2018, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2028 9.5% S 375 mL $79.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nyarai Cellars Folklore Sparkling Wine 2020, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 11% D 750 mL $22.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Checkmate Artisanal Winery Black Rook Merlot 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2030 14.4% D 750 mL $85.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Monte Creek Ranch and Winery Ancient Waters Chardonnay 2019, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 13% D 750 mL $22.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Upper Bench Estate Winery Zweigelt 2019, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 13% D 750 mL $28.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Time Family of Wines Chronos Riesling 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 12% D 750 mL $28.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Harper's Trail Field Blend White 2020, Thompson Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 12% D 750 mL $16.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

McWatters Collection Meritage 2018, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2026 14% D 750 mL $52.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandhill Small Lots Barbera 2017, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 143800 14.5% D 750 mL $35.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Morandin Wines Two Thousand Twenty Pinot Noir 2020, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 13% D 750 mL $35.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Riverview Cellars Riesling Icewine 2019, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Riesling Icewine food pairings: fruit flan, almond custard tarte, cheesecake, caramel glazed vanilla cake. Drink: 2021 - 2030 10% S 375 mL $70.05 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Riverview Cellars Vidal Icewine 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Vidal Icewine food pairings: custard fruit torte, caramel apple dumpling, pecan pie, strawberry shortcake. Drink: 2021 - 2029 519769 11% S 375 mL $50.05 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Pinot Gris 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 118638 13.4% MD 750 mL $19.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Xoxo Mini Rosé, Ontario, Canada: A terrific, refreshing Rosé with aromas of field berries and summer sunshine. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2021 - 2022 16783 11% M 250 mL $3.95 Score: 87/100. December 2021. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Xoxo Botanicals Strawberry Hibiscus Wine Spritzer, Ontario, Canada 48162016965 6% M 355 mL $3.45 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Okanagan Rosé 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Rosé food pairings: seasoned pork tenderloin, crabcakes, creamy chicken carbonara. Drink: 2021 - 2022 11.6% D 750 mL $15.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Maple Cream, Ontario, Canada Drink: 2020 - 2030 21825 17% S 750 mL $34.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Whisky Oak Aged Red 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The 2019 Red is aged in whisky barrels, imparting a seductive smokey character. Pair this full-bodied red with seared meats in rich red wine reductions; roasted leg of lamb; mushroom stews and of course Hockey Night in Canada. Food pairings: grilled steak, veal cutlets, lamb chops. Drink: 2021 - 2027 617738 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Odyssey Brut Rosé 2018, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A beautiful BC sparkling wine that's a blend of Pinot Meunier, Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir grapes. Aromas of orange zest and strawberry. Enjoy on its own or with seafood. Drink: 2020 - 2023 12.4% D 750 mL $26.00 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandhill Rosé 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous BC rose with aromas of field strawberries. Refreshing and crisp. Serve chilled with seafood. Rosé food pairings: salmon burgers, salads topped with Edam or Fontina cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, grilled chicken dishes. Drink: 2021 - 2022 19532 13.1% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. December 2021. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Gamay Noir 2019, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 57349 13% D 750 mL $15.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lakeview Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: salads, herbed goat cheese quiche, fish cakes. Drink: 2021 - 2023 483958 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant, mouth-watering Niagara Sauvignon Blanc with fresh aromas of chives and lemon. Pair with shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: blackened lemon-pepper-crusted chicken, applewood-smoked cheddar. Drink: 2020 - 2022 20260 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. December 2021. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Salted Caramel Cream, Ontario, Canada: A gorgeous cream liqueur from the Gretzky distillery. Aromas of caramel, toffee, butterscotch and sea salt. Medium-bodied, smooth as liquid velvet. Enjoy on it's own over ice, in a coffee or hot chocolate. Perfect after-dinner treat. Drink: 2020 - 2030 18524 17% S 750 mL $34.95 Score: 92/100. December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Cabernet Merlot 3L, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This boxed wine is the equivalent of four regular glass bottles of wine and offers extraordinary value for the taste and size. It's a full-bodied VQA red wine with aromas of dark fruit and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. 18393 12.5% D 3000 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Benchmark Series Blue Terrace Vineyard NBO 2018, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Nbo food pairings: Grilled rib eye or mushroom risotto.. Drink: 2020 - 2028 572719 14.8% D 750 mL $35.97 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelee Island Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2016 - 2024 435321 14% D 750 mL $13.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelee Island Winery Lighthouse Cabernet Franc 2018, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2020 - 2022 145441 13% D 750 mL $15.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Icellars Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2018 - 2023 13% XD 750 mL $35.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Odyssey White Brut 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A spectacular BC sparkling with crisp, toasty refreshment. Layers of green apple and freshly baked bread. Long, persistent finish. Pair with more of the same please ;) Drink: 2018 - 2023 711218 11.3% D 750 mL $30.00 Score: 94/100. December 2021. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sage Hills Vineyard Low Yield Gewurztraminer 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2018 - 2021 13% D 750 mL $20.10 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trius Red The Icon 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A consistently great Niagara red wine blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec grapes. Aged 12 months in French and American oak barrels. Aromas of black plum, blackcurrant, dark berries, smoke, mocha and dark spice. Pair with grilled meats. Decant 1 hour. The Icon food pairings: venison steak, grilled peppers, meatlovers pizza, old cheddar. Drink: 2021 - 2024 303800 13% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Queenston Mile Vineyard Blanc de Noirs 2015, St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: 3 years ageing on lees gives this elegant champenoise blend of Chardonnay (58%) and Pinot noir (42%) added complexity of brioche and toast. Sourced entirely from their St. David’s Bench Vineyard. Drink: 2019 - 2025 10139 12.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Thirty Bench Effervescent Riesling 2018, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Effervescent Riesling food pairings: pasta, lightly spiced curry dishes, lamb stew, white turkey meat. Drink: 2021 - 2026 11% MD 750 mL $38.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Peller Estates Vidal Icewine 50Ml 2018, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, V.Q.A., Canada Vidal Icewine 50Ml food pairings: lemon custard tart, fresh fruit cup, apple cobbler. Drink: 2021 - 2028 11% S 50 mL $10.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Peller Estates Family Reserve Light Rosé 2020, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 9% MD 750 mL $13.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gray Monk Estate Winery Kerner 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 11% MS 750 mL $20.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Good Natured Balanced Red 2020, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 13.7% D 750 mL $15.98 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Good Natured Okanagan Crisp Chardonnay 2020, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 423702 12.7% D 750 mL $14.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandhill Cabernet Franc 2019, British Columbia, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2025 14.7% D 750 mL $20.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sandhill Chardonnay 2020, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2024 157982 12.9% XD 750 mL $19.49 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vivo Blend No. 25 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Canada And Chile, Canada 23296 13% D 750 mL $13.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Peller Estates Private Reserve Vidal Icewine 2018, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Vidal Icewine food pairings: Apple strudel, coffee cake, caramel cheesecake, Tiramisu, peanut brittle. Drink: 2021 - 2028 18564 11% S 200 mL $27.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Winemaker’s Cut Bohemian Blanc 2019, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 12.5% D 750 mL $28.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Old Vines Foch Reserve 2018, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A., Canada Foch Reserve food pairings: lamb kebab or moussaka. Drink: 2021 - 2026 13.5% D 750 mL $29.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fort Berens Estate Winery Meritage 2018, Lillooet, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Meritage food pairings: steak. Drink: 2020 - 2025 78113 14.5% M 750 mL $26.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fort Berens Estate Winery Meritage 2019, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Meritage food pairings: steak. Drink: 2022 - 2027 78113 12.7% D 750 mL $27.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Big Head Wines Chenin Blanc 2019, Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario, V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 13.5% D 750 mL $24.80 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wayne Gretzky Estates Whisky Oak Aged Red 2020, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: grilled steak, veal cutlets, lamb chops. Drink: 2021 - 2027 617738 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 December 2021. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fort Berens Estate Winery Meritage 2020, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Meritage food pairings: steak. Drink: 2022 - 2027 78113 12.7% D 750 mL $27.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fort Berens Estate Winery Meritage 2021, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada Meritage food pairings: steak. Drink: 2022 - 2027 78113 12.7% D 750 mL $27.99 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Township 7 Vineyards & Winery Seven Stars Sirius 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia Bc, V.Q.A., Canada Food pairings: Oysters, scallops, aged cheeses, mushroom risotto. Drink: 2021 - 2031 390425 12% D 750 mL $79.97 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Big Head Wines Chenin Blanc 2023, Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario, V.Q.A., Canada Drink: 2021 - 2023 13.5% D 750 mL $24.80 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Bougrier Vouvray Chenin Blanc 2020, Loire Valley, France Chenin Blanc food pairings: grilled prawns, vindaloo chicken, picy South Asian dishes. Drink: 2021 - 2023 253229 12% M 750 mL $18.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marie Duffau Bas Armagnac Napoleon, France 313304 40% 750 mL $49.85 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cointreau, Angers, France 10322 40% 375 mL $21.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Chanceny Cremant de Loire Rosé Brut, Loire Valley, France: Pretty with tart strawberry notes. Bone-dry and refreshing. Great bubbly for weddings and large gatherings. Awesome price! Rosé Brut food pairings: shellfish, potato chips, fried chicken. 211466 12.5% D 750 mL $20.05 Score: 87/100. December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lillet Blanc Aperitif, Bordeaux, France: This fortified wine from Bordeaux is made from the same grapes as the dry table wines there: sauvignon and semillon. About 15% liqueur is added by macerating sweet and bitter oranges in brandy. This is then aged for about a year in oak barrels. There are terrific aromas of bitter orange zest in this lively aperitif. You can also try is as a cocktail in a flute glass with about 1 oz of Lillet and 5 oz of sparkling wine. Pair with chocolate and bitter orange zest peel or dark chocolate. 322297 17% MS 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. December 2021. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marie Brizard Blue Curaçao Liqueur De Fruit, France 25% S 750 mL $19.90 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Veuve Clicquot Non-Vintage Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: This classic, well-known Champagne is a traditional blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. Lime zest, green apple and freshly baked bread aromas on the nose, with a terrific persistence of bubbles on the palate. Try the ultra-shabby chic combo here between French Champagne and a bucket of KFC chicken. Why wait for New Year’s or a wedding before you pop open bubbly when it’s so tasty? The bonus is that it’s just about the best partner for fried food on the planet: it’s mouth-watering acidity and bubbles wash away the fat, making you want more of course. Brut Champagne food pairings: potato chips, fried food, sushi, seafood, vegetarian dishes. 563338 12% D 750 mL $79.95 Score: 92/100. December 2021. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château de Sancerre Sancerre 2014, Loire A.C., France: This Sauvignon Blanc from the Old World has some lemon and smoke notes. Pair with fish in a lemon burr sauce. Drink: 2016 - 2018 340893 12.5% D 750 mL $35.95 Score: 87/100. December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Louis Bouillot Perle d'Ivoire Brut Blanc de Blancs Crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy A.C., France: The Burgundian estate of Louis Bouillot was one of the first wineries in the region to create sparkling wine, called Crémant de Bourgogne, back in 1877. Crisp and clean with toasty warmth and green apple refreshment. Pair with fried chicken. A toasty Crémant de Bourgogne with great texture and mouth-filling weight. Nice crisp finish. Crémant De Bourgogne food pairings: pan fried chicken, spinach and goat cheese salad with fresh strawberries. Drink: 2022 - 2024 21034 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Floridene Grand Vin de Graves 2018, Bordeaux, France Drink: 2023 - 2028 14% D 750 mL $45.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Louis Latour Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2015, Burgundy, France: A lovely Burgundian Pinot Noir with tart cherry and earth notes. Lots of racy acidity for roast chicken. Drink: 2021 - 2024 69914 12.5% D 750 mL $26.15 Score: 88/100. December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henri Bourgeois Les Baronnes Sancerre 2020, Loire Valley, France Drink: 2021 - 2023 542548 12.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Georgia

Dugladze Wine Company Ranina Alazani Valley Semi-Sweet Red, Alazani Valley, Kakheti, Georgia Semi-Sweet Red food pairings: It goes with cheese, fruit and cakes. 693126 12% MS 750 mL $16.80 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Germany

Herres Romeo Peach Bellini, Germany 485086 5.9% S 750 mL $10.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wegeler Weinguter Geheimrat J. Wegeler Geisenheim Rothenberg Riesling Auslese 2015, Rheingau, Germany Drink: 2021 - 2030 15540 7.5% S 375 mL $34.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Folonari Classico Valpolicella 2020, Veneto, Italy Drink: 2021 - 2023 26278 12% 1500 mL $30.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frangelico, Italy 169441 20% S 750 mL $29.50 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Folonari Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC 2019, Veneto, Italy 229542 12% D 750 mL $14.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Antinori Pèppoli Chianti Classico 2018, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy Drink: 2020 - 2025 606541 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jermann Venezia Giulia Vintage Tunina 2018, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy Drink: 2021 - 2023 964825 12.5% XD 750 mL $88.00 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alois Lageder Terra Alpina Dolomiti Pinot Grigio 2019, Dolomiti, Alto Adige I.G.T., Italy Pinot Grigio food pairings: pasta with cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, oysters on the half-shell. Drink: 2021 - 2023 681429 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Marlborough, New Zealand: A lovely, zesty NZ SB that delivers vintage after vintage. Aromas of lime citrus and grass with racy acidity perfect for seafood. Drink: 2021 - 2023 293043 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. December 2021. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Vale D Maria Rufo 2018, Douro D.O.C., Portugal Food pairings: pulled pork sandwiches, slow-braised beef brisket, BBQ ribs. Drink: 2021 - 2026 14437 15% D 750 mL $17.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dow's Colheita Port 1997, Douro, Portugal: This lovely fortified dessert wine was estate bottled in 2007. It was aged 10 years before being released from the winery, much like 10-Year-Old Tawy Ports are, and it too does not require decanting as there is not sediment. However, a Colheita Port differs from a Tawny in that a Colheita is made from the grapes grown in a single vineyard, rather than a blend of several vineyards. This offers aromas of black fruit, vanilla spice, coffee and chocolate. A rich, luxurious port with layers of toffee, nuts and caramel on the finish. Drink: 2007 - 2024 69906 20% S 750 mL $32.95 Score: 92/100. December 2021. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

François Lurton Pilheiros Red Cap Wine 2016, Douro D.O.C., Portugal Drink: 2022 - 2026 427856 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Marques De Riscal Rioja Reserva 2016, Rioja D.O.C., Spain Drink: 2021 - 2025 32656 14% XD 750 mL $32.15 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United Kingdom

Drambuie, Mainland Scotland, United Kingdom 1867 40% 750 mL $47.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

L'Aventure Winery Optimus Estate 2018, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, California, United States: The L’Aventure Optimus 2018 is a rich and robust red wine blend of mostly Syrah, with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot that’s aged for over a year in 70% new French oak barrels. It features dark florals, ripe red berries, and toasty oak. It’s luscious and full-bodied, with some lingering notes of dark pepper on the finish. I’d pair this with a pepper steak or Porterhouse, grilled beef sliders or slow braised lamb shanks with coriander, fennel and star anise. This would make for a spectacular gift. Drink: 2022 - 2027 683409 15.6% D 750 mL $85.00 Score: 94/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Imagery Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, California, United States: A juicy, full-bodied California Cabernet with aromas of dark plums and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: Pork tenderloin, herbed roasted duck, mushroom burgers. Drink: 2021 - 2025 14369 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sea Sun Chardonnay 2018, California, United States: A luscious, buttery Californian Chardonnay with notes freshly baked bread and lime zest. This wine is produced by the Wagner family who've been making wines for five generations in California and also produce the coveted Caymus wines. Enjoy with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2021 - 2023 15548 14.3% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Longshot Pinot Grigio 2020, California, United States Drink: 2021 - 2023 633354 13% D 750 mL $16.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sea Sun Pinot Noir 2018, California, United States: This medium-bodied, silky smooth red wine features aromas of ripe berries, plum, bing cherry, vanilla, and toasty oak. Pair with veal or roast turkey or chicken. Sea Sun 2018 Pinot Noir is produced by Charlie Wagner from wine grapes sourced from California's cool-climate coastal vineyards. The Wagners come from a long line of Napa Valley wine grape growers and winemakers dating back to the 1850s. They're also the family who produce the coveted Caymus wines. Drink: 2020 - 2024 16027 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Longshot Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, California, United States Drink: 2022 - 2024 633347 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Longshot Pinot Noir 2019, California, United States: A juicy, smooth, medium-bodied California Pinot Noir. Aromas of strawberries and field berries. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: pork tenderloin, grilled chicken, sausages, mushroom burgers. Drink: 2021 - 2024 21969 13.5% D 750 mL $17.00 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trefethen Family Vineyards Estate Merlot 2018, Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied, complex Napa Valley Cabernet with aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and smoke. Pair with rare and grilled meats. Drink: 2021 - 2027 147462 14% XD 750 mL $68.00 Score: 93/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bread & Butter Chardonnay 2019, Napa Valley, California, United States Drink: 2021 - 2023 19261 13.6% D 750 mL $20.05 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bonanza Lot 3 California Cabernet Sauvignon, California, United States: A savoury, juicy, full-bodied California Cabernet with dark fruit and toasty oak aromas. Non-vintage. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: dark chocolate studded with dried dark berries, grilled sausages, grilled burgers. Drink: 2021 - 2025 660241 14.6% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. December 2021. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Avalon Appellation Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Napa Valley, California, United States Appellation Series Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: T-bone steaks, veal roast, lamb stew. Drink: 2021 - 2024 16457 14.5% D 750 mL $39.95 December 2021. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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