Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release February 2, 2013

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Argentina

Luigi Bosca Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Maipu, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied with black smoky fruit and a deep core of richness. Perfect for barbecues. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled thick cut steaks. Drink: 2012 - 2015 128629 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Familia Zuccardi Organica Torrontés 2011, Mendoza, Argentina: Gorgeous floral aromatics on this organic wine has just 8 mg/l of free sulphur. Medium- to almost full-bodied with mouth-watering acidity for seafood and grilled chicken. Some white peach on the finish. Lovely, especially for the price. Torrontés food pairings: sushi, Thai noodles in a light lemongrass sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2015 232694 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Agrelo, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Ripe blackberry and black plum on the nose with a fleshy mouth-filling richness o the palate. Full-bodied and supple. This wine was matured for 8 months in new French and American oak. Some sweet spice and smoke on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2015 234518 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Susana Balbo Signature Dominio Del Plata Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: Blueberry-blackberry pie with dark spices and smoke. Full-bodied, supple and smooth. Great price. Highly recommended. Drink: 2013 - 2016 79798 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Celia Elite Malbec Tannat 2009, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A dark-hearted blend of Malbec (60%) and Tannat (40%) grapes that was matured in French and American oak for 1 year. Loaded with blackberry, blackcurrant and smoke, with a tarry, dark spice finish. Terrific! Drink: 2013 - 2016 303677 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Chapel Hill Shiraz 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Luscious black plum with an acidic zing on the palate for food. Full-bodied and supple. Perfect for diehard hedonists. Drink: 2013 - 2016 743989 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz Cabernet 2010, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: Minty blackberry on the nose with fleshy black plum on the palate. Mouth-filling and rich with a great finish. Balanced and food friendly especially for meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2016 186114 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Best's Great Western Bin No. 1 Shiraz 2010, Great Western, Victoria, Australia: Blackberry and fleshy black plum with a savoury mouth-watering note on the palate. Full-bodied and generous. Supple and smooth. Grilled pork chops please! Drink: 2013 - 2016 222323 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Duck Shoot Pinot Noir 2010, Yarra Valley, Victoria, South Australia, Australia: A sweet cherry infused wine with raspberry pie aromas and baking spices. Good acidity for food. Medium-bodied. Drink: 2013 - 2016 311373 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chapel Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Classic nose of blackcurrant, cassis and sage brush. Full-bodied and very solidly structured. Decant 2 hours. Great for steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 965830 14.5% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Tanunda Barossa Tower Shiraz 2010, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Black pepper and black plum with savoury, meaty notes. Pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 289983 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hill-Smith Estate Chardonnay 2010, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Full-bodied but not heavy with lovely balancing acidity. Green apple and pear on the nose and palate. Good layers of complexity and freshness. Satisfying finish. Try with seared tuna. Drink: 2012 - 2015 361584 13% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Arlewood Marsanne Roussanne 2010, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: Rich and full-bodied with lovely notes of toasted almond and pear on the palate. A nod toward the Rhone but this is very much its own wine with more Australian fruit. Drink: 2012 - 2015 313247 14% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yalumba The Strapper Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2010, Barossa Valley, Australia: This is an incredible wine for the price! Full-bodied, lusciously rich and deep with a terrific long finish. Aromas of fleshy dark fruit, a hint of pepper and savoury goodness. Mouth-watering and delicious. terrific with grilled pork chops, beef or lamb with rosemary. Grenache Shiraz Mataro food pairings: slow-braised beef cheek or lamb shanks, garnished with crisp smoked bacon and served with roasted root vegetables. Drink: 2012 - 2020 295873 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bulgaria

Lovico Ls Traminer 2011, Varna, Suhindol, Bulgaria: Totally orange orchard on the nose to you think it's going to be sweet but it's very dry. Mouth-watering with baking spices and some toasted almond. Great with curries and spices. Food pairings: grilled chicken thighs with a Dijon mustard sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2015 297754 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Cooper's Hawk Vineyards Riesling 2011, V.Q.A., Lake Erie North Shore, Ontario, Canada: A light-bodied, pretty white with white floral and peach notes. Nice acidity on the palate for seafood and shellfish. Balanced and lovely. Riesling food pairings: lake fish, roast turkey breast, pork chops. Drink: 2012 - 2015 318402 11.2% M 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Megalomaniac Wines Coldhearted John Howard Cellars Of Distinction Riesling Icewine 2008, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Lovely! Lemon meringue and honeysuckle on this gorgeous dessert wine. Yet it's light and gliding over the palate. Try it with angela food cake. Riesling Icewine food pairings: spicy spring rolls, freshly sliced melon. Drink: 2013 - 2020 243519 7.9% S 200 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. February 2013. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: Supple and medium- to full-bodied. Dark red, juicy fruit and a nice finish. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roasted and/or braised meats, meatloaf and fine cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2018 609826 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Sketches Of Niagara Riesling 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Stunning! Incredibly intensity of flavor and mouth-filling juiciness. Medium-bodied. This winery truly deserves its reputation. Riesling food pairings: grilled salmon, tilapia with a spicy rub. Drink: 2011 - 2015 89029 10% MD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Sketches of Niagara Rosé 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy with mouth-watering flavours of raspberries and strawberries. Bone-dry and refreshing. Drink: 2012 - 2013 172643 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value Rosé Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Featherstone Joy Premium Cuvée Sparkling 2008, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Remarkably toasty and robust -- reminds me of Bollinger Champagne, but this has its own story. Toasted bread and crisp orchard fruit. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to shellfish or seafood. Sparkling food pairings: spinach salad with red berries, pomegranate and goat cheese, spinach souffle, pan-fried freshwater fish. Drink: 2010 - 2014 310334 12.5% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Emiliana Novas Gran Reserva Carmenère Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile Carmenère Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecue ribs, barbecue steaks, roast beef, meaty pasta dish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 434662 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.00 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Alicia Gran Reserva De Los Andes Carmenère 2009, Maipo Valley, Chile: Minty black plums on the nose that opens to a fleshy seductive richness on the tongue. Full-bodied and supple. I like that the fruit doesn't taste sweet but more savoury. Great food wine, and all-round lovely wine for the money. Carmenère food pairings: T-bone steaks, bison burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 93831 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Carmen Wines Gran Reserva Syrah 2009, Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Purple and black plums and blueberries on the nose. Generous, supple and full-bodied on the palate, loaded with dark fruit flavour. Lip-smaking tasty. Drink: 2013 - 2016 14124 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Emiliana Novas Gran Reserva Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Lovely black plums on the rose with a savoury, tart awakening on the palate. Full-bodied and ultra smooth. Slips down slippery fast. Top me up please. Carmenere Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecue ribs, barbecue steaks, roast beef, meaty pasta dish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 434662 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.00 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Maipo Valley, Chile: Savoury and juicy with fleshy black plums and blackberries. Full-bodied and smooth. Imminently gulpable. Dark red in the glass, mouth-filling in the palate. Finishes with smoke and spice. Great with pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2016 18721 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Château Pey De Pont Meritage 2009, A.C., Médoc, Bordeaux, France: Black and tarry with some wild tart blackberries and a pleasantly bitter finish. Solid structure and balance. Could use a few years in the cellar before drinking. Decant 1-2 hours. Drink: 2014 - 2018 307967 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Oratio Canon-Fronsac Merlot 2009, A.C., Bordeaux, France: Vibrant, tasty and well-priced! Full-bodied with juicy and fleshy ripe black and dark red berry flavours and mocha. Terrific! Drink now. Merlot food pairings: veal tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 307918 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Alain Jaume & Fils 2010, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône, France: A terrific price for this robust, savoury blend of Grenache (70%), Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes sourced from one vineyard. Enticing aromas of cedar brush, wild black raspberry, anise and blackberry. Smooth with a pleasantly bitter and refreshing finish. Deep and intense. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 76331 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Albert Bichot Clos Prieur Gevrey-Chambertin Pinot Noir 2010, A.C., Burgundy, France: Satin seduction in a glass! Sexy fleshy ripe cherries, smooth texture with a medium to almost full body. The nose is so seductive and the palate follows through: no bait and switch here folks. Complex and layered with a long finish. Drink: 2013 - 2018 299941 13% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tour De L'isle Patrick Jaume 2010, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Black cherry liqueur richness and depth with smoke, dried herbs and great complexity. Layers of pleasure here. Smooth texture yet massive and towering structure. Decant 2 hours. Will cellar well. Drink: 2013 - 2020 309849 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 95/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hardys Cognac Xo (½ Ounce) Hardy X.O. Cognac Fine Champagne, Cognac, France Hardy X.O. Cognac Fine Champagne food pairings: roasted nuts. 912527 40% 750 mL $145.95 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Vrignaud Chablis 1Er Cru Fourchaume Chardonnay 2011, Burgundy, France 691070 13% XD 750 mL $34.95 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Fleur De Bouard Le Plus De Blend - Meritage 2003, Lalande-De Pomerol, Bordeaux, France 590950 12.5% XD 750 mL $199.00 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

R. Pouillon & Fils 1Er Cru Brut Rosé Champagne, A.C., Champagne, France: Lovely field strawberry and raspberry notes on this dry champagne. Some plum and toast on the finish. Very refreshing. Try with planked salmon. Drink: 2012 - 2015 314518 12% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clairette Monge Granon De Die Tradition, A.C., Rhône, France: Toasty, crisp and fresh on the nose. Lovely aperitif. On the palate , some sweetness with ripe peach and pear notes. Food pairings: fruit turnovers, spicy Thai dishes with a papaya salad. Drink: 2012 - 2015 305474 8% M 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bestheim Réserve Pinot Gris 2011, A.C., Alsace, France: A lovely, friendly and accessible white with attractive ripe peach, pear and melon notes. Medium- to almost full-bodied. Lovely for chicken with herbs. Pinot Gris food pairings: spicy noodle dishes, mandarin orange salad with roasted almonds. Drink: 2012 - 2015 315143 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Willy Gisselbrecht Tradition Sylvaner 2011, A.C., Alsace, France: Soft and slightly floral with a light-bodied weight. Hint of peach. Great for those who love light whites. Try with a tender sliver of sole. Sylvaner food pairings: oysters, pan-fried scallops, steamed clams, mussels. Drink: 2012 - 2015 315028 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Chêne Mâcon-Milly Lamartine Chardonnay 2011, A.C., Burgundy, France: Fresh with lemon, lime and a hint of green apple on the nose. Medium-bodied and balanced on the palate. Try this with grilled chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster tail, crab legs. Drink: 2012 - 2015 302711 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Eric Forest L'ame Forest Pouilly-Fuissé 2009, A.C., Burgundy, France: A vibrant and aromatic Old World chardonnay with notes of lemongrass, lime and some green apple. Some smoke on the finish. Very fresh and nicely balanced. Drink: 2012 - 2016 301911 13% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château de Pocé Touraine Domaine Chainier Sauvignon Blanc 2011, A.O.P., Touraine, Loire, France: Terrific lemon vibrancy and mouth-watering juiciness for food, especially salads and vegetarian dishes. Not too herbal, with a medium body weight. A stunningly great price for such taste and quality. This would also make a great aperitif. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: mild green curry with shrimp, herbed chicken breast with a green salad. Drink: 2012 - 2016 313569 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine de Ménard Cuvée Marine 2011, I.G.P., Côtes-De-Gascogne, Southwest, France: Lemon and nettles on the noses, with lots of mouth-watering acidity for food on the palate. Medium-bodied, clean and crisp. Great for seafood or salads. Nicely balanced. Food pairings: tuna steaks, mild cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2014 310201 11.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Guibeau Meritage 2009, A.C., Puisseguin St-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: Rustic and full-bodied with tart black fruit, smoke and tar. Needs a big piece of steak, but would be divine with it. Meritage food pairings: grilled lamb chops and oven-roasted potatoes. 307934 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Roumagnac Rencontres 2010, A.O.P., Fronton, Southwest, France: Savoury, delicious and decidedly different. Aromas of purple plum and blueberry with a blackberry-smoke finish. Smooth and gulpable. Food pairings: blackened steaks, burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 311472 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Les Halos De Jupiter 2010, A.C., Costières De Nîmes, Rhône, France: This savoury blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Carignan grapes is full-bodied, rustic and tasty. Amazingly great price for this quality. Aromas of wild black cherry and cedar forest. Drink now, right now. Drink: 2013 - 2015 309153 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Germany

Studert-Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling 2008, Prädikatswein, Mosel, Germany: One of my favourite German rieslings! Clementine blossom on the nose followed by soft lime and white flowers. Mouth-watering acidity is perfectly balanced with just enough sweetness. Try it with glazed ham or sweet potatoes or any sauce with a touch of sweetness or chutney or salsa. Drink: 2012 - 2016 970129 7.5% M 750 mL $26.00 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Volkacher Kirchberg Trocken Silvaner 2011, Qualitätswein, Franken, Germany: Green apple and green melon on this friendly, straight-forward white. Good acidity on the palate for freshness and dishes such as chicken or planked salmon. Silvaner food pairings: lake fish, seafood. Drink: 2012 - 2015 314880 12% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dr. Loosen Dr. L Sparkling Riesling, Deutscher Sekt, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany: Fans of Dr. L Riesling will lap this bubbly up, literally! It's fresh and crisp with lovely white peach and toasty pear notes. And my goodness, the price: you can't beat it. Is it a typo? Stock up for your weddings and big parties now. Try with fresh steam lobster and a marriage proposal. Drink: 2012 - 2015 296095 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greece

Skouras Saint George Aghiorghitiko 2010, A.O.P., Nemea, Peloponnese, Greece: Smoky and mysterious on the nose, almost like Bordeaux. Opens up to lovely fleshy black fruit. What a package, especially for this price. Full-bodied yet very supple. Try it. Drink: 2013 - 2016 533504 12.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Spadina Una Rosa Signature Nero D'avola 2009, I.G.P., Sicily, Italy: Mocha and dark chocolate on the nose followed by fleshy black plum and blackberries. Layered and juicy with lots of pleasure. Great for hamburgers or pizza. Nero D'avola food pairings: pasta featuring meat and tomato sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2015 10330 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Storia Antica Valpolicella Ripasso 2010, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Generous oak is well woven with rich black fruit. Savoury, dark and delicious with full-bodied weight and incredible concentration of flavour. Long finish. Great wine. Valpolicella Ripasso food pairings: grilled steaks, slow-cooked beef, osso buco. Drink: 2013 - 2017 273672 13% D 750 mL $18.25 Score: 91/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pelassa Bricco Enrichetta Langhe Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) 2011, D.O.C., Piedmont, Italy: Lovely fleshy ripe cherries and raspberries do a happy dance across your mouth yet finish dry. Full-bodied and smooth. Awesome price. This wine will be a great companion to most meat dishes, including roast chicken. Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresio) food pairings: pasta in tomato sauce, pizza, seafood/chorizo paella. Drink: 2013 - 2016 305508 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Villa Girardi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: Classic amarone with gorgeous concentration: black cherry liqueur, smoke and dried herbs. Mouth-watering and complex with layers of depth and length. Wow. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: aged cheeses, herbed lamb stew with raisins. Drink: 2013 - 2020 159913 13.5% D 750 mL $41.95 Score: 95/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenementi Angelini Val Di Suga Brunello Di Montalcino 2007, D.O.C.G., Tuscany, Italy: Complex and classic: violets, tar, black fruit and smoke. Smooth and ageless. A flagship of its type. Drink: 2013 - 2018 713719 13.9% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ca' Dei Mandorli Le Donne Dei Boschi D'acqui Brachetto 2011, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Strawberry and fruitcake spice on this lightly sparkling, sweet wine. Perfect for chocolate desserts. Brachetto food pairings: berry tarts, chocolate-dipped strawberries, beef carpaccio, grilled calamari. Drink: 2012 - 2014 30536 5.5% MS 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ricossa Antica Casa Moscato D'asti 2011, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: Always pretty with lovely honeysuckle and apple blossom notes on this lightly effervescent, medium sweet wine. Perfect for glazed ham, hot curries and spices or as a light after-dinner drink that's low in alcohol. Try it with crème brûlée. Drink: 2012 - 2014 72272 5.5% S 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sampietrana 1952 Riserva Brindisi Negro Amaro 2008, D.O.C., Puglia, Italy: Purple plum liqueur and blueberry jam, finishes dry. Full-bodied and smooth. Gulpable especially with meat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2015 310086 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De Luca Armannia Pecorino 2011, I.G.T., Abruzzo, Italy: Lemon, lime and nettle nose with a mouth-watering acidity that's great for cream sauces or seafood. Medium-bodied and fresh. Pecorino food pairings: oven-baked macaroni and cheese dish, and add some Pecorino cheese. Drink: 2012 - 2015 311613 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kellerei St. Magdalena Cantina Produttori Bolzano Pinot Grigio 2011, D.O.C., Südtirol - Alto Adige Trentino, Italy: Fresh, fresh, fresh! Lemon zest, lime and some green apple. Terrific mouth-watering acidity. Medium-bodied. Great price. Try with pasta and cream sauce. Pinot Grigio food pairings: oysters on the half-shell garnished with lemon slices. Drink: 2012 - 2015 249466 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Villa Tonino Inzolia 2011, I.G.P., Sicily, Italy: Lime and orange blossom on this mouth-watering, dry white. If you like Torrontes from Argentina, try this. Less floral but just as pretty. Medium-bodied and ultra food-friendly for seafood and chicken. Food pairings: seafood, fish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 100552 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Te Mata Estate Woodthorpe Vineyard Chardonnay 2010, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: Lots of green apple and some white flowers on the nose. Bursts forward with mouth-watering lime acidity on the palate. Medium-bodied and fresh. Great for shellfish. Chardonnay food pairings: roasted whole chicken, pork roast. Drink: 2012 - 2015 295246 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Momo Seresin Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, herbal and refreshing with lots of mouth-watering acidity. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green curry shrimp, grilled herbed chicken breast. Drink: 2012 - 2014 9167 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coopers Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is worth a try, especially if you want to get out of your white wine rut. This rendition for Cooper's Creek has a terrific and refreshing lemon zest finish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Thai green mango salad, pan-fried sole with lemon sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2014 957407 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dashwood Winery Pinot Noir 2010, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Sweetly ripe fleshy cherry aromas and some dark spice. Supple and almost full-bodied. Lovely layers of hedonistic pleasure. Pinot Noir food pairings: pork roast, grilled salmon steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2016 296202 14% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 91/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Aneto Red 2009, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: An amarone-like nose of concentrated black cherry liqueur fruit, smoke and black earth. Full-bodied and smooth with layers of richness. Needs a hearty meat dish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 314930 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quinta Das Carvalhas Reserva Tawny Port Real Companhia Velha, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Very pretty dessert wine with attractive toffee and toasted almond aromas and flavours. Pair with crème brûlée and biscotti. Yum. Food pairings: nut bowl, blue-veined cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 298059 19% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cockburn's Special Reserve Port, D.O.C., Douro, Portugal: Mind-blowing for the price. This gorgeous dessert wine offers aromas and flavours of blackberry pie and dark spices. Pair with chocolate cake. Drink: 2013 - 2016 63180 20% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quinta da Ponte Pedrinha 2008, D.O.C., Dão, Portugal: Rustic and full-bodied with a pleasant tarry, bitter finish. Tart wild blackberries and cassis. Needs a rare steak! Decant 2 hours. Great price. Food pairings: rare roast beef. Drink: 2013 - 2016 219188 14.7% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Graham Beck Bowed Head Chenin Blanc 2010, W.O., Paarl, Coastal Region, South Africa: Beautiful nose of toasted almond and white peach. Lovely contrasts carry through on a full-bodied palate. Stunning with roast chicken or pasta in cream sauce or lobster in butter. Drink: 2012 - 2016 231357 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. February 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Man Vintners Chardonnay 2011, W.O., Coastal Region, South Africa: A nicely balanced chardonnay at an incredibly great price. Medium- to full-bodied with lovely, generous flavours of ripe peach and pear and some almond. Try it with pork tenderloin. Chardonnay food pairings: cream-based pastas, chicken dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2015 12423 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Remhoogte Estate Wine Named Varietal Blends-Red 2006, W.O., Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa: Cabernet nose and character here: cassis and blackcurrant. Tannic so decant for 2 hours or cellar. Full-bodied and concentrated. Great taste for the money. Drink: 2013 - 2016 694539 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cirrus Syrah 2007, W.O., Stellenbosch, South Africa: Opulent and intriguing with rich dark blackberry, black and purple plums that are fleshy ripe. There's a tang and a zing here that keeps it lively. Full-bodied with a velvet texture and mouth-filling capacity for happiness. Drink: 2013 - 2016 54338 14.5% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Beronia Reserva Tempranillo 2008, D.O.C.A., Rioja, Spain: Mocha, dark chocolate and fleshy black plum on the nose. Balanced with nice oaking and concentrated black fruit flavours. Smooth though decanting for 1-2 hours will enhance this wine. Tempranillo food pairings: blackened steaks, roast leg of lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2017 50203 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United Kingdom

Corryvreckan Islay Single Malt (½ Ounce) Whisky, Ardbeg, Scotland, United Kingdom 211730 40% 750 mL $183.95 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Colonel E.H. Taylor Straight Rye (½ Ounce) Whisky, Buffalo Trace, Kentucky, United States 912527 40% 750 mL $79.95 February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dominus Christian Moueix Cabernet Sauvignon 1991, Napa Valley, California, United States Drink: 2013 - 2018 212381 14.5% XD 750 mL $151.95 February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dominus Christian Moueix Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Rich, dark and complex nose of black fruit, smoke and tar. Intensely concentrated yet supple though decant for 2 hours if you're going to drink soon (better to cellar). Dried tobacco and smoke on the finish, which is long. It's spectacular but I couldn't justify spending this much on it. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 212381 14.5% XD 750 mL $151.95 Score: 96/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dutton Estate Dutton Palms Vineyard Chardonnay 2010, Russian River Valley, California, United States: Lovely lemon vibrancy with a rich, mouth-filling texture and weight. Perfect for creamy dishes or those with lots of butter as it has the heft for them yet also the mouth-watering acidity to cut through the richness and cleanse your palate. Highly recommended. Drink: 2012 - 2016 234856 14.2% D 750 mL $53.95 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Treana Red 2009, Paso Robles, California, United States: A dark, brooding red with savoury, meaty notes and flavours. Blackberries and grilled meats. Good finish. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2016 11221 15.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marimar Estate La Masía Pinot Noir 2007, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California, United States: Baked cherry pie on the nose yet much drier on the palate. Medium to almost full-bodied and ultra smooth and supple. Very seductive and well-crafted. Owned by Torres Family of Spain. Highly recommended. Drink: 2012 - 2017 303974 14.1% XD 750 mL $83.00 Score: 93/100. February 2013. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Murphy-Goode The Fumé Sauvignon Blanc 2011, North Coast, California, United States: Lemon zest and chives with great freshness in this half bottle size. Great for nights when you're on your own, or when you want to start with a glass of wine with salad then move on to a different wine with the main dish. Drink: 2012 - 2015 721191 13.5% D 375 mL $10.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Three Saints Chardonnay 2009, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara, California, United States: Lovely toasted almonds on the nose wrap around mouth-awakening green apple and white peach notes. Full-bodied but not heavy. Very balanced. Highly recommended. Chardonnay food pairings: whole-roasted branzino. Drink: 2012 - 2016 297531 14.1% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. February 2013. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marilyn 25 Silver Anniversary Merlot 2009, Napa Valley, California, United States: Fleshy black plum and mocha, dark chocolate on the nose and palate Almost full-bodied and very smooth. Great for birthdays or wishing the president a breathy happy birthday. Drink: 2012 - 2015 306738 13.9% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 88/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Merlot 2008, Sonoma County, California, United States: Alluring aromas of mocha-coffee on the nose along with rich black fruit. Pleasantly surprising vibrant acidity for food. Plush black plums and coffee on the finish. Drink: 2011 - 2015 497933 13.8% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. February 2013. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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