Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release January 4, 2014

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Trius Winery at Hillebrand Vidal Icewine 2012, Niagara, Ontario: A stunningly rich and satisfying icewine with notes of peach, pear and apricot preserves. Perfect with a fruit flan or cobbler. Drink: 2013 - 2019 137687 10% S 375 mL $30.00 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Argentina

Valle Las Acequias Luis Segundo Correas Malbec Oak 2007, Mendoza, Argentina: A terrific full-bodied red wine for the money! Robust, generous aromas and flavours of blackberries and black plums. There's toasty oak and dark chocolate on the finish with some blackberry preserves. Vanilla spice gives it a kick. Try it with a pepper steak. Malbec Oak food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin, pasta. Drink: 2012 - 2015 138412 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Killka Bodega Salentein Malbec 2012, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied, smooth with dark chocolate and black plum notes. Great price. Try it with hamburgers. Malbec food pairings: steaks, sliders. Drink: 2014 - 2017 353185 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yauquen Bodega Ruca Malen Bonarda 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Lots of campfire smoke and mocha on this robust red wine from generous oak aging. Black fruit, smoke and tar notes through the core. Cries out for a rare steak. Bonarda food pairings: steak fajitas. Drink: 2014 - 2017 360115 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Don David Finca La Urquiza #8 Michel Torino Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina: Staggeringly great value for this robust red wine! Aromas of black fruit, smoke, herbs, and the satisfaction of having paid so little for so much. Smooth, though decant for 1 hour and pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 357459 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Wakefield Shiraz 2010, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Lots of acidity in this full-bodied red wine that almost, but not quite, overwhelms the black fleshy plums aromas and flavours. Smooth and mouth-filling. Great value. Drink: 2014 - 2017 943787 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zonte's Footstep Avalon Tree Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Langhorne Creek, South Australia, Australia: Loaded with fruit, this full-bodied red wine over-delivers on its price. Some cedar, spice and more dark fruit on the finish. Try it with hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 353193 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Magpie Estate The Call Bag Named Varietal Blends-Red 2009, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Aromas of savoury, meaty, fleshy black plums and fruit with some mint on the nose. So delicious. Aged in French and American oak. Great value for the price. Drink: 2014 - 2018 203067 14% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wakefield Shiraz 2010, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Blackberry liqueur richness with a hint of mint. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth with excellent replays of dark fruit flavours across the palate. This is an incredible wine for the price. The grapes for this wine come from vines that were planted in 1969, and that concentration shows in the wine. Some spice and vanilla oak on a long finish. Shiraz food pairings: lamb cutlets, sharp cheddar, Mexican dishes, pork spareribs, grilled tuna. Drink: 2012 - 2015 943787 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Robert Oatley Vineyards Signature Series Chardonnay 2012, Margaret River, New South Wales, Western Australia, Australia: A full-bodied white wine that's rich and buttery with some smoke on the nose from generous oak aging. Supple, layered and tasty. Great price. Try with seafood pasta in a cream sauce or roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2016 350900 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Austria

Rabl Kittmansberg Grüner Veltliner 2011, Kamptal, Austria: Green, crisp and clean with not a spot of oak. Light and mouth-watering with lots of acidity for food such as salads and vegetarian dishes. The appellation for this wine is DAC Drink: 2013 - 2015 346007 12.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Flat Rock Chardonnay 2010, V.Q.A., Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Hailing from one of Niagara's top producers, this full-bodied white wine with lovely aromas of fresh peach wrapped in just the right amount toasty oak. Balanced and generous with green apple and hazelnut aromas. This is what cool-climate chardonnay is meant to be. Pair with corn dishes and roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2016 286278 12.8% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Riesling Icewine 2011, Okanagan V.Q.A., Bc, Canada: This lovely icewine hails from the challenging 2011 vintage. It's a tribute to Mission Hill's winemaker that this dessert wine still displays its classic signature in all it's apricot-peach glory with perfect balance. Drink: 2012 - 2020 776545995216 8.5% S 375 mL $69.99 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

13th Street Merlot 2012, Creek Shores, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada: Solid producer, good merlot. Balanced with aromas and flavours of dark fruit. Smooth and full-bodied. This is a VQA wine. Merlot food pairings: braised ribs, pulled pork, meaty pasta. Drink: 2014 - 2018 270504 12.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery Merlot 2011, V.Q.A., Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada: This full-bodied red wine offers tart black plum aromas and flavours, with some smoke and vanilla toast. Smooth and supple, this wine is matured in French barrels for 13 months. Some damson plum and dark spice on the finish. Merlot food pairings: basil pesto, lamb shanks, beef sirloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 211896 13% XD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Rock Riesling 2012, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Soooooo lovely! Apricot and honeysuckle aromas give this wine a lovely, natural fruit fleshiness and sweetness, but this wine is never cloying as it's beautifully balanced with mouth-watering acidity for a wide range of dishes. Luscious and seductive with a medium body and long finish. Highly recommended. Riesling food pairings: chicken, lobster, risotto, sushi, grilled lake fish, pork kebabs. Drink: 2012 - 2017 43281 11% MD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Mayu Gran Reserva Carmenère 2011, Elqui Valley, Coquimbo, Chile: Love it! Big smoky, mocha aromas with generous layers of luscious black fruit on the palate. Terrific price for such quality. Carmenère is the flagship grape of Chile, and it shows in this glass. There's a lovely weave of dried tobacco and espresso on the finish. Decant 1-2 hours and enjoy with a hearty meat dish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 90035 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Alicia Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Maipo Valley, Chile: Such a lovely wine for the price! Round, fleshy and luscious black plums, wrapped in mocha from toasty oak. Full-bodied and smooth. Perfect for hamburgers or pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2017 350074 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Estampa Assemblage Reserve Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2010, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Blackberry liqueur on the nose with a touch of menthol through the core. A big whopper of a red wine to satisfy those who love their wines full on at a great price. Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot food pairings: rich and meaty pasta dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2017 350082 14.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casas del Bosque Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Grassy-good with refreshing herbals aromas. Oak-free and pure. Crisp, fresh aromas of lime and grapefruit merge on the palate followed by a clean finish. Solid craftsmanship here. Try it with spinach quiche or shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 974717 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Château La Bastide 2010, Corbières, Midi, France: A full-bodied, rustic red wine with aromas of wild black fruit and toasty oak. Lots of grip on the palate. You can't beat the price. Decant 1 hour to smooth it out. This is an AC-designated wine. Drink: 2014 - 2017 360487 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Maison Roche de Bellene Cuvée Réserve Bourgogne Nicolas Potel Pinot Noir 2011, Burgundy, France: This medium-bodied, smooth pinot noir offers aromas and flavours of tart cherries, earth and some herbal, stemmy notes. Good acidity for food. Awesome price for Burgundy, especially for the quality designation of AC. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal scaloppini with a mushroom sauce, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2014 - 2017 299859 13% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut Mouleyre Meritage 2011, Bordeaux, France: A pleasant full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas of dark fruit and toasty oak. Straightforward pleasure at a great price. This AC-designated wine is Élevé en füts de chène (aged in oak). Drink: 2014 - 2017 349324 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Loire, France: Tart, green and refreshing: big lime and grass notes. Terrific price. Terrific minerality and refreshment with mouth-watering green apple notes on the crisp finish. This is classic Loire Valley sauvignon blanc. Try it with field greens or spinach quiche. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2015 745349 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Des Fées 2012, Côtes Du Rhône, France: Juicy, round and wonderful full-bodied red wine. Organic is a bonus. Aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe purple and black plums. This is an AC wine and it's unfiltered before bottling, produced by Les Vignerons d'Estézargues. Wow. Food pairings: burgers, lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 272450 14.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château La Croix Blanche Meritage 2010, Montagne Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France: A terrific, robust red wine for the price, especially for Bordeaux! Aromas of black fruit, toasty oak and smoke. This Right Bank Bordeaux is made with 80% merlot grapes and 20% cabernet franc. Decant 1 hour. The quality designation for this wine is AC and it's produced by SCEA Vignobles Guimberteau, Prop. Drink: 2014 - 2017 349316 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Robert Perroud Pollen Brouilly Gamay (Beaujolais) 2011, Burgundy, France: This is a full-bodied for Beaujolais, though it is both a cru Beaujolais and an AC wine. Lots of dark cherry and earth aromas. Very attractive. The grapes gamay grapes for this wine grow in stony soils. This wine could benefit both from decanting for 1 hour as well as some cellar time. Great price. Drink: 2014 - 2018 356766 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Haut Beyzac Cuvée O'peyrat Meritage 2009, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France: A full-bodied red wine with robust layers and depth. Aromas of black fruit, smoke, oak and tar in this blend of merlot (60%) and cabernet sauvignon (40%).The quality designation for this wine is AC and it's made by a family of independent wine growers in the Medoc region of Bordeaux. Great price. Meritage food pairings: steak and mushrooms in a red wine jus. Drink: 2015 - 2019 362020 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Les Verrières Les Sept Fontaines 2009, Languedoc, Midi, France: Spicy, racy and peppery: a terrific full-bodied red wine. Great price. Aromas of pitch black fruit and smoke. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. This is an AP-designated wine. Food pairings: roasted duck breast. Drink: 2014 - 2017 362913 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pierre Amadieu La Grangelière Vacqueyras 2011, Rhone, France: A full-bodied, juicy, rich red with aromas and flavours of rustic wild red cherries and cedar forest floor notes. The Rhone Valley offers such tremendous value in the glass, especially for these rich reds. Try this one tonight with a rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 76398 14.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Nozieres Cuvée Ambroise de l'Her 2010, South West, France: This very full-bodied red wine has black, smoky oak and fruit on the with a pleasantly bitter finish. Robust plus. Great for barbecues and hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 276055 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 86/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean-Pierre & Alexandre Ellevin Vaucoupin 1Er Cru Domaine Ellevin Chablis 2011, Burgundy, France: An elegant expression of Chablis with white peach and melon notes and a pure crispness. No oak on this chardonnay, just Burgundy in the glass. Try it with fresh seafood or shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 264457 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Bonnard Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Loire, France: This is vibrant, zesty white wine blends the best of Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of New Zealand style: lime and mineral, cut grass and a hint of gooseberry. Fresh and dry with a crisp, refreshing finish. A balanced and refreshing sauvignon blanc that’s not overly herbal or oaked. A lovely balanced approach with tasty notes of lime, green apple and chives. Try it with shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: grilled prawns, poached salmon, roasted herbed chicken, goat cheese-stuffed roasted red peppers. Drink: 2013 - 2015 140525 12.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Chablisienne Saint-Bris Sauvignon Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Burgundy, France: Did you know they make Sauvignon Blanc in Burgundy? A zesty, vibrant white wine that refreshes the palate and acts as a great companion to seafood and vegetarian dishes. With this unique Burgundian wine you can now impress your guests. And the Sauvignon Blanc grapes are only found in the Saint-Bris appellation. Vibrant, lemongrass and lime aromas leap out of the glass. Mouth-watering and juicy with terrific minerality and length. Medium-bodied and refreshing. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: grilled white fish, pork tenderloin, chicken salad. Drink: 2013 - 2015 641753 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Mussy Beaunes Épenottes 1Er Cru Pinot Noir 2010, Burgundy, France: This medium to full-bodied pinot noir offers aromas of black raspberry, smoke and violets. It has depth, length and layers. On the palate, the wine has a lovely mouthfilling finesse that belies the great 2010 vintage for Burgundy. The appellation for this complex wine is AC. Pinot Noir food pairings: sautéed duck breast seasoned with thyme, fresh nutmeg and black pepper. Drink: 2014 - 2018 356907 13% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

De L'arjolle Z Domaine De L'arjolle Zinfandel 2011, Vin De France, Midi, France: Superb and fascinating! Unlike California zinfandel. Smoky with rich layers, smooth, creamy texture and satisfyingly full-bodied weight. Want something different that's guaranteed to be delicious ... Here you go. Drink: 2014 - 2018 346072 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Germany

Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier Dom Riesling 2011, Qualitätswein, Mosel, Germany: Beautiful! Floral with honeysuckle and apple blossom. Try it with glazed ham or roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2016 359596 10% M 750 mL $15.25 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Valiano Tenute Piccini Chianti Classico 2008, Tuscany, Italy: This is a DOCG-designated is classic, full-bodied Chianti, with dark spices, dark red wine. Great length and finish. Excellent quality and value for this price. Drink: 2014 - 2018 354019 13% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Pieve Barolo 2009, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy: This full-bodied red wine offers enticing aromas of dark fruit, tar, toasty and spice. Barolo wines are rarely priced this affordably, so give this this Piedmont, Nebbiolo-based grape wine a try. The tannins are firm and there will be plenty of fruit here to bring balance. A real gripper but I like it! Big, black with a tarry streak through the middle. Black cherry resistance and some dark spices. Perfect for black magic nights. Barolo food pairings: beef stew. Drink: 2014 - 2018 213132 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Campo Casalin I Castei Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008, Veneto, Italy: Voluptuous rich red with aromas of cherry liqueur and blackcurrant preserves. This is a towering red that will go the distance in your cellar as well as muscle in beside the heartiest of meat dishes on your table. Superb craftsmanship. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: seared beef sirloin. Drink: 2013 - 2020 946558 15.5% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 93/100. January 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cusumano Noà 2010, Sicily, Italy: Exceptional value and quality for the price! This full-bodied red wine is smooth with mocha richness and brooding black plums slipping in underneath. Dark spice and smoke on a long finish. Terrific structure and balance. Demands hearty meat dishes and your full commitment. This wine is a blend of Nero d’Avola, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Nero d'Avola is the flagship red wine of Sicily: try it tonight with hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 109512 12.5% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Monte del Frá Bardolino 2012, D.O.C., Veneto, Italy: A terrific wine for the money, and a great one for holiday parties and potluck gatherings. It offers aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe cherries with full-bodied weight and mouth-watering juiciness. Decant 1 hour. Try it with pepperoni pizza. Bardolino food pairings: grilled meats. Drink: 2013 - 2015 134544 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2011, Veneto, Italy: This full-bodied red wine hails from one of Italy's top producers, and certainly also one of it's most consistent vintage after vintage. Tasty and full-bodied with lovely black fruit aromas, dark spices and some smoke. I love a half bottle, which is perfect for a very fun night on your own or when you just want a glass and an half each for a certain course, like a meat dish or sausages. Elegant with a dry finish. Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: grilled turkey, pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2018 69443 13% XD 375 mL $12.45 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello Del Terriccio Tassinaia 2006, Tuscany, Italy: Good tannic grip on the palate of this robust red wine. Loaded with black fruit, tar, toasty oak and pencil led. Some spice and leather on a long finish. This is an IGT wine. Decant 1 hour. Drink: 2014 - 2020 11650 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Geografico Montegiachi Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany, Italy: This DOCG-designated, full-bodied red wine offers juicy aromas and flavours of fleshy dark red fruit and smoke. Supple and mouthwatering. Great with pasta or pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2018 962142 12.6% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lebanon

Château Ksara 2011, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon: A tasty, full-bodied red wine with aromas and flavours of dark fruit and smoke and a savoury, mouth-watering finish. The vines of this wine grow clay and chalk in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. Great for hearty meat dishes. Food pairings: roast leg of lamb. Drink: 2013 - 2015 178095 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 85/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Eradus Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Marlborough, New Zealand: Fantastic sauvignon blanc! Fresh and crisp, not too herbals with terrific lime and citrus brightness. Year after year, I love this zesty white! Herbal, but not too grassy: a lovely lime lift on the finish that's ultra-refreshing. Medium-bodied and crisp. Perfect for salads and shellfish. The grapes for this zesty white grow in maritime sub-region of Marlborough known as the Awatere Valley. Try it with vegetarian pizza and creamy cheeses. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: white fish and seafood. Drink: 2012 - 2014 225557 13% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mount Riley Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This zesty white wine is herbal, grassy good! Medium-bodied, no oak, great for seafood and vegetarian dishes. Vibrant aromas of gooseberry and grapefruit on the palate, with lots of mouth-watering acidity for a range of dishes from salads to seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: chicken Alfredo, seafood, vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2015 981670 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Eradus Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Very herbal, grassy and refreshing. A herbaceous finish with chives and lemongrass. Great with salads. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cheese, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, turkey pot pie. Drink: 2013 - 2015 225557 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Villa Maria Private Bin Gewürztraminer 2012, East Coast, New Zealand: Amazing price for such a characterful, vibrant wine! Aromas of spice, lychee and rose petal. Perfect for Asian dishes and medium curries. Gewürztraminer food pairings: spicy pho noodles. Drink: 2013 - 2015 925585 13% M 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Quinta Das Camélias Reserva 2010, Dão, Portugal: Loaded with purple and black plums, and blackberry liqueur richness. Concentrated, intense and full-bodied with a mouth-coating viscosity. Great price. The appellation for this wine is DOC. Food pairings: grilled ribs, steak. Drink: 2014 - 2017 305334 14% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Calem Special Reserve Tawny Port, Douro, Portugal: A gloriously rich port that makes a lovely after-dinner drink. Aromas of blackberry preserves and cassis. Great price for such quality. Enjoy it on its own or with nut-based desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2021 349365 19% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Azul Portugal Wines & Winemakers by Saven 2008, Dao, Portugal: A very full-bodied red wine with deep, concentrated aromas and flavours of black fruit and toasty oak. There's a good grip on the palate so decant 2 hours for maximum enjoyment. The winemaker Anselmo Mendes is a big advocate of the Dão region and its potential for dry red wines. This particular wine is a blend of the Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz grapes. Try it with meat lovers' pizza. Food pairings: bean stews, roasted chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2016 82198 12.4% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Åguia Moura Em Vinhas Velhas Reserva Tinto 2008, Douro, Portugal: Big, black and brooding with dark fruit, tar, smoke and dust. Lots of toasty oak. Full palate whack. Good price. Drink: 2013 - 2017 354738 14% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Slovenia

Puklavec & Friends Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio 2011, Podravje, Slovenia: Crisp, clean and refreshing with aromas of lime and grapefruit. Nice aperitif or companion to seafood. Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio food pairings: seafood. Drink: 2012 - 2015 355883 12% D 750 mL $14.50 Score: 86/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Bayten Buitenverwachting Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Constantia, South Africa: A refreshing, crisp, white wine with notes of lime and grapefruit. Not an ounce of oak. Great as an aperitif or seafood companion. The quality designation for this wine is WO. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: sushi, Asian pork stew, pasta with cream-based sauce, pizza, grilled salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2015 977314 13.4% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bon Cap Organic Wines The Ruins Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Wo Eilandia Robertson, South Africa: Excellent berry ripeness in the glass along with layers of black plums. Bargain hunters will love this full-bodied red wine from South Africa. It offers notes of smoked meat, jammy black fruit and some robust tannins. Decant for 1-2 hours. This wine will make a big splash at your next party. This wine is a blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon organic grapes. Great value. Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork, bison steak, smoked pork chops, garlic and grilled vegetable casserole. Drink: 2013 - 2015 18739 14.8% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Monasterio de las Viñas Reserva Grandes Vinos Y Viñedos 2006, Cariñena, Spain: A terrific wine for the money! Juicy, full-bodied, savoury and smooth. Aromas of cedar and black cherry. Great pick for a potluck gathering or movie night. It would be terrific with cold cuts and hard cheeses. Drink: 2012 - 2015 166579 13% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2011, Jumilla, Spain: A tasty and full-bodied red wine with black and dark red fruit aromas and flavours. Monastrell is also known as Mataró or Mouvedre in other regions, and usually creates rich wines of great depth and concentration. Try it tonight with pepperoni pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2015 163154 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Torres Viña Esmeralda 2012, Catalunya, Spain: Simply divine even at triple the price it is. Stunningly lovely white floral notes along with some lychee and white melon. So, so pretty as an aperitif or with fresh seafood. Highly recommended. There’s no oak on this aromatic blend of mostly muscat grapes with some gewürztraminer grapes, that grow in the mountains of north-east Spain. A lovely honeysuckle finish. Try it with Asian dishes and mild to medium curries. Food pairings: seafood. Drink: 2013 - 2015 113696 11.5% MD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Romate Fino Sherry, Jerez-Xérès-Sherry, Spain: A dry, nutty fortified wine best enjoyed with nuts and cheeses. This is a DO-designated wine. Drink: 2013 - 2020 349357 15% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bula Bula 2011, Montsant, Spain: A dry, robust red with aromas of cassis and smoke and a mouthwatering intensity. This full-bodied blend of 50% Carinena, 30% garnacha and 20% syrah grapes was fermented in stainless steel tanks, then matured for 4 months in French and American oak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 292094 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rio Madre 2011, Rioja, Spain: A terrific, full-bodied red wine at an staggeringly great price! This is a DOCA wine and is produced by Bodegas Y Vinedos Ilurce. Loaded with fleshy dark fruit, mouth-watering action and layers of lip-smacking flavours. this wine was matured in French oak. Lovely! Drink: 2013 - 2017 354753 14.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Adaro 2009, Ribera Del Duero, Spain: A very concentrated, full-bodied red wine with intense flavours of black raspberry and kirsch. Balanced by toasty oak and good acidity. This is a DO-designated wine. Very sexy smooth texture. Highly recommended. Drink: 2014 - 2019 345686 14.5% XD 750 mL $39.00 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ukraine

Massandra Rose Muscat 2009, Black Sea Coast, Crimea, Ukraine, Ukraine: Pure blackberry pie in a glass... nice dessert wine that finishes with some orange zest. This fortified wine is made by the Massandra winery, one of the most well-known producers in the Ukraine. Massandra winery was founded more than a century ago to make wine for the Tsar when he was at his summer palace near Yalta. Try it with biscotti. Muscat food pairings: nut bowl, blue-veined cheeses. Desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2016 73155 16% MS 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Howling Moon Old Vine Zinfandel 2009, Lodi, California, United States: The grapes for this wine come from vines averaging 50 years old. This full-bodied red wine offers tasty aromas and flavours of purple plums and blueberry pie with a smooth, full-bodied texture. Luscious and satisfying. Yum! Ready for BBQ or chicken wings when you are. Zinfandel food pairings: rib roast. Drink: 2012 - 2015 57356 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.25 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay 2010, Columbia Valley, Washington State, United States: This full-bodied white wine is so classically made at such a terrific price! Die-hard Chardonnay lovers will embrace this wine, but so too will other white wine drinkers because it’s not heavy in oak or alcohol. Lovely green apple and melon aromas with a seductive weave of vanilla smoke. Drink: 2013 - 2016 232439 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: A lovely Chardonnay with enticing notes of white peaches, pear, green apple, almond and smoke. Full-bodied and dry. This classic chardonnay is one of California's best, and the featured wine in the movie Bottleshock, based on the true story of the Judgment of Paris, when this US winery placed ahead of traditional French wines in a blind tasting. See for yourself the quality in the glass. Try this lovely chardonnay with roast chicken or turkey tonight. Chardonnay food pairings: basil pesto, prawn bisque, stuffed chicken breast. Drink: 2013 - 2017 701748 13.7% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cline Cellars Viognier 2012, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: An aromatic, floral white wine with good balance and a nice finish. Try it with mild curries and Asian dishes. Good price. Drink: 2013 - 2016 128421 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Columbia Crest Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: A terrific full-bodied red wine with a smooth, supple texture. Enticing aromas of mocha and dark chocolate from oak aging, along with fleshy blackberry, mouth-watering juiciness. Supple and juicy with dark fruit and lovely layers violets and meaty notes. Perfect wine for watching CSI but it doesn’t take a forensic scientist to figure out how good it is. Pair with rare steak. Drink: 2013 - 2016 210047 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Merlot 2010, Sonoma County, California, United States: Rodney Strong was Sonoma’s 13th bonded winery back in 1959, and the Klein family has owned it ever since 1989. They strive for sustainable agriculture and thus became Sonoma County’s first carbon-neutral winery. There's terrific balance, structure, supple texture and length on the finish of this wine. 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. Try is with braised beef. Merlot food pairings: slow cooked beef, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2016 497933 13.8% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Atalon Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Love it! This is what benchmark, classic Californian Cabernet is: a tiger wrapped in velvet, power and elegance. An incredibly well-made wine with seductive aromas of blackberries, black plums and cedar. Try it with rare filet mignon tonight and toast your good fortune. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 906198 13.7% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, California, United States: This full-bodied red wine is classic California Cabernet at a great price! Balanced and tasty with lovely dark fruit and just enough oak. Enticing aromas of cassis, blackberry and vanilla smoke. Supple, smooth and full-bodied. Mocha and dark chocolate on the finish. Perfect for a juicy steak this evening. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: barbecued chicken, spare ribs in a sweet-and smoky sauce, pork, hodge podge, salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 537597 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied with great structure, depth, complexity and elegance. Aromas of subtle dark fruit and smoke. Long finish. Classic Californian cabernet. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: steaks, game. Drink: 2014 - 2020 203828 14.5% D 750 mL $79.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kistler Pinot Noir 2011, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A zesty acidic attack on the palate of this fleshy pinot noir. Aromas of tart black cherries and dark spices. Medium-bodied and smooth. It's a hefty price tag compared to several other Californian pinot noirs in this release. Pinot Noir food pairings: blackened mutton, beef. Drink: 2014 - 2020 330274 14.1% D 750 mL $97.95 Score: 91/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Wahluke Slope, Washington State, United States: Mocha and dark chocolate aromas with black fruit. Chalky dry and full-bodied. Great price for this quality. Some black plum and berries on the finish. Drink: 2014 - 2017 360222 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 89/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ravenswood Vintners Blend Petite Sirah 2011, California, United States: A full-bodied red wine from a lesser known grape (petite sirah). Aromas of black fruit, tar and lots of toasty oak. Great with pizza. Petite Sirah food pairings: meaty stews. Drink: 2014 - 2017 161554 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos du Bois Sonoma Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: This robust Californian cabernet has that classic signature of black fruit, smoke and toasty oak all wrapped into a supremely satisfying package. The winery, in Geyserville, first made wine in 1974. Sonoma cabernet always has a terrific blend of fruit richness and spicy depth. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: prime rib, grilled pork or chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2016 54080 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Irony Pinot Noir 2014, Monterey County, California, United States: Lovely pinot noir! Silky, layered and seductive with generous, fleshy aromas and flavours of cherry and spice. Perfect for planked salmon and marriage proposals. Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon, cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2018 353227 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.25 Score: 92/100. January 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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