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Wine Picks December 14, 2025

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Reviewed Wines | All Wines | Group by Wine Type | Group by Country/Region

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Note: This batch of wine reviews is not part of the bi-weekly Vintages Releases. Instead, this is 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 stores. Click on the Winery or Wine Agency link to get more information.

Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.

Red Wine

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2022, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: From the Tuscany wine region, Ruffino Ducale Oro Riserva 2022 Chianti Classico is a robust, juicy, full-bodied Chianti produced with mostly Sangiovese wine grapes with some Merlot and Colorina added to the mix. This example is intense with dark fruit, clove, anise, dark cherry, grilled wild herbs and smoky flavours on the palate with balanced acidity to match. Pour with a meat-lover's pizza. Chianti Classico food pairings: meat-sauce pasta, meat lovers' pizza, beef stew. Drink: 2025 - 2032 353201 13.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. December 2025. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Other Wines/Drinks

Bothwell Habanero With Cracked Black Pepper Monterey Jack, Canada: Bothwell Habanero with Cracked Black Pepper brings serious heat for those who love adventure on their cheese board. This is hot-level spice where the habanero delivers fruity heat while the cracked black pepper adds aromatic sharpness and visual appeal. It is a boldly flavoured cheese that brings just the right amount of swagger to the table, opening with creamy dairy aromas, followed by cracked black pepper and a warming hint of habanero heat. On the palate, the Monterey Jack base is smooth, supple, and medium-bodied, cushioning the spice so it builds gently rather than shouts, with a lingering peppery finish that keeps you reaching back for another bite. Fascinating fact: Bothwell Cheese is one of Canada’s oldest cheddar makers, founded in 1936, and still crafts cheese in small batches, proving that prairie dairy can absolutely bring the heat without losing its cool. $9.00 Score: 93/100. December 2025. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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