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
Aubert & Mathieu Marie Antoinette Corbières 2023, Corbieres A.O.P., Languedoc, France: Aubert & Mathieu's Marie Antoinette from Corbières, Languedoc is a polished, medium-bodied red wine blending Syrah and Grenache with notes of red plum, lavender, garrigue and black pepper. This dry, food-friendly wine displays smooth tannins and vibrant acidity that make it immediately approachable. Serve it at room temperature with herb-roasted chicken thighs as the wine's Mediterranean character complements the rosemary and garlic, or pair it with ratatouille where the wine's bright acidity enhances the stewed vegetables and Provençal herbs. Winemaker Frédéric Brochet oversees production for this négociant partnership, sourcing fruit from sun-drenched hillside vineyards in the rugged Corbières appellation where limestone soils and sea breezes create wines of remarkable freshness. The wine's name pays homage to Marie Antoinette, who famously championed French wines during her reign, making this an apt tribute to accessible elegance. This versatile red represents excellent value and will drink beautifully through 2029. Food pairings: lamb kebabs, roast breast of duck, grilled chicken dishes. Drink: 2025 - 2029 25811 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. December 2025. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
Pago del Cielo Celeste Verdejo Sur Lees 2024, Rueda D.O., Spain: Pago del Cielo's Celeste Verdejo Sur Lees from Rueda is a vibrant, medium-bodied white wine blending Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc with notes of green apple, grapefruit, lime and fresh herbs. This dry wine displays creamy texture and refreshing acidity that create an energetic, food-friendly profile. Serve it well chilled with grilled asparagus with hollandaise as the wine's bright acidity cuts through the rich sauce, or pair it with Spanish tortilla where the wine's freshness balances the creamy eggs and potatoes. Winemaker Juan Carlos Sancha ages this expressive white wine on its lees to add texture and complexity while preserving the fruit's aromatic purity and taut structure. Pago del Cielo represents a new generation of Spanish winemaking, focusing on indigenous varieties like Verdejo while bringing modern techniques to showcase the potential of Rueda's high-altitude vineyards. This clear, expressive wine represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2027. Verdejo Sur Lees food pairings: Manchego cheese, calabrese salad, gilled asparagus and artichoke galette. Drink: 2025 - 2027 44756 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 2025. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart