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
Parajes del Valle Ecológico Monastrell 2024, Jumilla D.O.P., Spain: Parajes del Valle Ecológico Monastrell from Jumilla in southeastern Spain is a lively, medium-bodied organic red that reveals a fresher, more energetic side of Monastrell than this sun-baked region is typically known for, making it one of the more surprising and delightful discoveries at this price point. Bright ruby in the glass, it opens with an enticing nose of crushed hibiscus, dried cranberry and a whisper of fennel frond, flowing into flavours of tangy tamarind, orange blossom and a subtle streak of chalky mineral on the palate, all carried by a crisp, refreshing acidity and a clean, youthful finish. It is bone dry with supple, approachable tannins, best served lightly chilled, and is drinking beautifully now through 2027. Jumilla is one of Spain's most exciting value appellations, and the move toward organic viticulture here is gaining real momentum as producers like Parajes del Valle demonstrate that certified organic farming and exceptional quality are not mutually exclusive, even in such a demanding, sun-drenched landscape. Serve it with a platter of sliced chorizo and manchego cheese, where the wine's bright acidity and tangy fruit will cut through the rich, paprika-spiced fat beautifully, or pair it with turkey burgers topped with roasted red pepper and aioli, letting its refreshing, mineral-driven character lift every bite. Monastrell food pairings: chorizo, turkey burgers, charcuterie. Drink: 2026 - 2027 41734 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. May 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Rosés
Mitolo Jester Sangiovese Rosé 2025, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Mitolo Jester Sangiovese Rosé from McLaren Vale in South Australia is a dry, light-bodied rosé crafted from Sangiovese grapes hand-harvested in the early morning hours to lock in every nuance of freshness and aromatic vitality, a thoughtful approach that sets this wine apart from more casually produced warm-climate rosés. Pale salmon in the glass, it charms with a nose of dried rose petal, white peach and a delicate suggestion of lemon verbena, flowing into flavours of pomelo, rhubarb and a cool whisper of crushed chalk on the palate, all carried by a bright, mouthwatering acidity and a crisp, clean finish that makes every sip feel alive and refreshing. It is off-dry with a featherlight body, best served well chilled, and will drink beautifully through 2028. Mitolo is one of McLaren Vale's most admired producers, originally founded as a passion project by Frank Mitolo whose family had deep roots in South Australian viticulture long before the winery was formally established, and the Jester range has since become a beloved gateway into the estate's characterful, site-driven style. Serve it alongside grilled salmon skewers with saffron rice and fresh peas, where the wine's bright acidity and delicate fruit will complement the dish's gentle richness beautifully, or pair it with a charcuterie board of thinly sliced cured meats and fresh fig, letting its chalk minerality and refreshing finish cut through every rich, savory bite. Sangiovese Rosé food pairings: charcuterie, grilled salmon skewers with rice and peas. Drink: 2026 - 2028 278101 12.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. May 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart