Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release November 22, 2014

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Dessert Wine

Reif Estate Winery Vidal Icewine 2012, Niagara River, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Liquid gorgeous! What a spectacular dessert wine. Aromas of honey, peaches, baking spice and tree fruit. Perfect for fruit-based desserts or pumpkin pie. Yum! Vidal Icewine food pairings: apricot, peach or pineapple based desserts , bold blue cheeses or on its own as a dessert. Drink: 2014 - 2020 544791 10% S 200 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quady Essensia Orange Muscat 2012, California, United States: Clementine bite, sharp and soft at the same time in this gorgeous dessert wine. Quady is one of California's best-known and most respected dessert wine producers. The Quady Essencia was first produced in 1980. Pair with orange and chocolate cake. Drink: 2012 - 2018 299552 15% S 375 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Icewine Cabernet 2013, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Niagara dessert wine is made from Cabernet grapes, thus the cherry colour. Aromas of cran-cherry and dark spice. Pair with light chocolate desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2018 672402 10% S 200 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Icewine Riesling 2012, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Love this Niagara Riesling icewine from Inniskillin! Gorgeous aromas of peach pie, baking spices and freshly baked bread glazed with toasted almond on the top. Pair with apple or strawberry crumble. Drink: 2012 - 2019 558288 9% S 375 mL $79.95 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Cabernet Icewine 2013, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Dive into this gorgeous Niagara icewine with its raspberry preserves and strawberry-rhubarb jam aromas and flavours. The luscious red berry nuances come from the red wine grape base Cabernet Franc. It's an exotic treat that pairs well with darker, richer desserts than do the riesling and vidal-based icewines, though this one has just as much balancing acidity to avoid being cloying. Think chocolate cake. Rich and long and satisfying. Cabernet Icewine food pairings: pumpkin, fruit flans, syllabubs. Drink: 2013 - 2018 672402 10% S 200 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Raymond-Lafon 2010, Sauternes, Bordeaux A.C., France: The 2010 vintage of the Raymond-Lafon Sauternes is divine with rich layers of marmalade, quince and peach jam. Terrific balance, length and acidity in this Bordeaux dessert wine. Drink: 2013 - 2020 256362 13% S 750 mL $31.85 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dereszla 6 Puttonyos Tokaji Aszú 2005, Hungary: A honeyed treat from Hungary. Layered and rich and mouth-filling, this viscous dessert wine offers lots of pleasure in the glass. Drink: 2011 - 2018 393132 13% S 500 mL $81.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cave Spring Cellars Icewine Riesling 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cave Spring is Niagara's master producer of Riesling, whether it's the dry table style or the dessert version like this icewine. Aromas of fresh apricot, honey and peach preserves. Pair with apple cobbler. Drink: 2014 - 2025 447441 11.5% S 375 mL $49.95 Score: 94/100. November 2014. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

PondView Estate Winery Icewine Vidal 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely Ontario dessert wine made from the Vidal grape. This icewine offers aromas of honey and peach pie. Pair with fruit-based desserts. Vidal food pairings: peachy desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2018 390351 11% S 200 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Suduiraut 1Er Cru Classé 2010, Sauternes, Bordeaux A.C., France: A spectacular dessert wine from the Bordeaux region of Sauternes, made from a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The 2010 vintage was a real stand-out. Aromas of honey, peach and baking spice. Pair with foie gras or fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2013 - 2022 256214 13% S 750 mL $129.85 Score: 95/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2011, South Australia, Australia: A rich, complex, full-bodied red wine blend of Cabernet and Shiraz grapes from one of Australia's best producers. Black cherry liqueur aromas and flavours on the nose and mid-palate. Pair with grilled meats. Highly recommended. Drink: 2013 - 2018 309625 14.5% D 750 mL $100.00 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Reif Estate Winery The Fool Gamay Nouveau 2014, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Jubuliant, fleshy ripe cherry aromas and flavours on this delicious medium-bodied red wine from Niagara. The Fool is made in the nouveau style of beaujolais nouveau, with the grapes picked and the wine bottled by the third Thursday in November. This is no joke wine. Well done! Drink: 2014 - 2014 220483 12% D 750 mL $11.75 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Joseph Drouhin Primeur Beaujolais Villages Nouveau 2014, Burgundy, France: One of the best nouveau wines year after year. This medium-bodied smooth red wine has remarkable character for being bottled so quickly. Attractive aromas of dark cherries. Great mouth-watering juiciness for roast turkey or chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2014 113266 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.35 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mommessin Beaujolais Nouveau 2014, Burgundy, France: A joyous nouveau from the 2014 vintage. Mommesin is one of the most respected producers in the Beaujolais region. Their nouveau this year offers aromas of cherry-berry and some spice. Drink: 2014 - 2014 897934 12% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 86/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Catalans Primeur Syrah Merlot 2014, Roussillon, France: Cherry cola and cherry bubblegum flavours in this light, simple nouveau-style wine from southern France made from a blend of Syrah and Merlot grapes rather than Gamay used in Beaujolais. Drink: 2014 - 2014 220533 13% D 750 mL $9.95 Score: 86/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Georges Duboeuf Gamay Nouveau 2014, Beaujolais, France: A second nouveau wine from George duBoeuf: buy both and compare. This is a lighter, more carefree version of the nouveau style. Cherry-berry and some banana notes. Pair with bistro fare. Drink: 2014 - 2014 891846 12.5% D 750 mL $10.95 Score: 86/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Villages Nouveau 2014, Burgundy, France: This is the best of this year's Beaujolais Nouveau wines, and it's no surprise that it comes from George duBoeuf, known as the King of Beaujolais. Aromas of tart cherry and mouth-watering berries. Smooth and medium-bodied. Drink: 2014 - 2014 932780 12.2% XD 750 mL $17.75 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Negrar Novello 2014, Veneto, Italy: Strawberry bubblegum and banana peel on the nose of this light, acidic Italian nouveau-style wine. Pair with Skittles. Drink: 2014 - 2014 899955 12% D 750 mL $9.95 Score: 84/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tollo Novello Rosso Terre Di Chieti 2014, Abruzzo, Italy: Banana bumblegum and purple berry flavours in the light Italian nouveau-style wine. Drink: 2014 - 2014 271759 12.5% XD 750 mL $8.95 Score: 85/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J.P. Chenet Art’s Primeur Nouveau Gamay 2014, Beaujolais, France: Dr. Pepper and cherry cola on the nose followed by cherry bubblegum on the palate. Rustic with more of a tannin grip than the other nouveau-style wines in 2014. Finishes with Juicy Fruit purple gum. Pair with red licorice. Drink: 2014 - 2014 366476 12% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 84/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château La Bourrée Meritage 2009, A.C., Côtes De Bordeaux, Castillon, France: Exceptional for the price! Full-bodied with black fruit and some toasty oak. Fairly smooth but decant for 1 hour. Great with steak. Meritage food pairings: burgers, sausages, grilled steaks. Drink: 2013 - 2015 138800 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Versado Reserva Malbec 2010, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Exotic Bordeaux nose that still delivers plenty of Argentine sunshine and black fruit power and concentration. There's finesse and elegance here. Aromas of smoke, dark spice, and field of black flowers. Full-bodied and smooth though decant for 2 hours. Serve only the finest cuts of meat with this red wonder. Malbec food pairings: lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2019 316984 14.2% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 95/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Remo Farina Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2012, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Ripasso is a fascinating Italian winemaking technique that is also used now in other regions. The wine is “re-passed” or fermented a second time with dry Amarone grapes to deepen the flavour and concentration. What emerges from the glass is a bundle of black cherry and dark berry aromas along with some anise, cloves and cedar brush. This wine will do well in the cellar as well as on your table tonight. Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: grilled veal chops, pasta, beef stew, herbed tomato salad, roast rack of lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 999946 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Saltram Mamre Brook Shiraz 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: A blockbuster Shiraz for lovers of this genre! Generous depths of flavour in this robust red wine. This is a savoury, meaty wine with fleshy dark berry aromas. There's judicious weave of oak throughout that makes it toasty great. This wine hails from a warm-climate, and it shows in the depth and concentration of dark fruit flavour. The wine equivalent of a box office hit. Shiraz food pairings: roast beef, black bean soup, blue cheese, peppercorn steak, burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 32227 14% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Perrin & Fils L'andéol Rasteau 2011, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Classic Rhone Valley red wine with signature aromas of black fruit, pepper, cedar smoke and dried herbs. Savoury and delicious with earthy rather than overtly fruity nuances. Decant 2 hours or cellar it.  Your choice; your aptitude for delayed gratification -- or not! Food pairings: lamb burgers, grilled Angus beef steak. Drink: 2013 - 2017 976845 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bodegas Altanza Lealtanza Crianza Tempranillo 2011, Rioja, Spain: Robust, rustic pleasure with aromas of dark red fruit, smoke and cedar. Full-bodied and smooth, crafted from Spain's flagship red wine grape Tempranillo. Perfect for book club get-togethers, especially when you're reading a dark and brooding detective story or murder mystery. The grapes for this wine are all grown on the winery's estate. Then the wine is aged for 1 year in oak. Great balance and finish. Tempranillo food pairings: chili, soup, beef, lamb chops, smoked cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2018 114835 13.3% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wither Hills Pinot Noir 2011, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: A lovely, layered New Zealand Pinot Noir, with generous notes of cherries and plums on the nose and palate. Silky smooth texture and medium body. Pair with seared tuna or roast turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: prime rib, turkey, pork tenderloin, mushroom and truffle dishes, grilled salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2017 919829 14% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

M. Chapoutier Petite Ruche 2012, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône A.C., France: Gorgeous black cherry liqueur aromas run through the heart of this savoury, chewy, bone-dry Rhone red. Full-bodied and bursting to tell you who it is and where it came from: no mistaking its identity from the Rhone Valley. Chapoutier is a name you can trust. Complex, layered and delicious. Pair with rack of lamb. Food pairings: prime rib, brisket, game meats, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2019 264655 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lungarotti Rubesco Sangiovese Canaiolo Colorino 2010, Rosso Di Torgiano, Umbria D.O.C., Italy: Very tart, acidic and tannic: sour cherry notes with blackened earth. Perfect for a tangy, acidic tomato sauce best served in a rustic Italian taverna with Mamma coaxing you to eat more ... You are too thin! Drink: 2013 - 2016 368548 13.5% XD 750 mL $72.25 Score: 85/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casa De Santar Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Dão D.O.C., Portugal: Mocha and dark chocolate with some fleshy black plums and blueberries. Smooth and full-bodied. Polished tannins, concentrated and satisfying Portuguese red wine. Drink: 2013 - 2017 190710 13.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Wine Estates Knotty Vines Zinfandel 2012, Northern Sonoma, Sonoma County, California, United States: Mocha and dark chocolate from loads of oak aging. At 15% alcohol, this is hefty. Not a lot of ripe fruit here, mostly oak. Zinfandel food pairings: pizza topped with dried salami, ribs. Drink: 2013 - 2016 363358 15% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Duck Pond Cellars Fries Family Cellars Pinot Noir 2011, Oregon, United States: Stemmy and acidic, with tart cherry notes on this Oregon Pinot Noir, with a wonderfully lifted, bright mid-palate. Earth and cranberry aromas with a spice edge. Lovely balance that makes this red wine both edgy and racy and very food friendly. This is also a very reasonable price for Oregon Pinot Noir. Pair with planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal chops, spiced duck breasts, pizza with anchovies. Drink: 2013 - 2018 427872 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vallado 2011, Douro Do.C., Portugal: Black, dark, charred and brooding: toasted black fruit and chary oak. Full-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2014 - 2017 694992 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A rustic, robust Italian red wine with tart, charred black fruit and lots of oak and acidity. Pair with tomato sauce and pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2017 727636 14.5% XD 750 mL $34.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenuta Lena di Mezzo Monte del Frá Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2010, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: A full-bodied, smooth Italian red wine with subtle notes of dark, dried berries and smoke. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2017 165662 14% D 750 mL $28.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Laidlaw Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Lots of acidity on the palate with sour cherry aromas and flavours. Very supple and smooth texture. Pair with planked salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2018 264796 13% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenuta Stefano Farina Le Brume Langhe 2009, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Love the tertiary aromas that waft up from a glass of mature wine: leather, violets, pipe tobacco. Pair with lamb and rosemary. Drink: 2013 - 2017 360073 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Barahonda Sin Madera Monastrell 2011, Yecla D.O., Spain: Big sweet purple plums and blueberries on the nose and palate. Smooth and full-bodied. Black and red licorice on the finish. Drink: 2013 - 2017 366823 15% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Merlot 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Big, and chalky-dry with black fruit aromas and flavours. There's a fairly robust tannic grip on the mid-palate so decant 2 hours. Pair with grilled pork chops. Merlot food pairings: roasted pork. Drink: 2015 - 2019 639633 14.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tenuta Sant'Antonio Monti Garbi Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2011, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Sweet berry aromas on the nose and flavours on the palate, yet finishes dry. Almost full-bodied and very smooth and supple. Pair with hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 29850 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir 2010, Monterey County, California, United States: Sweet chocolate on the nose and palate with fleshy blackberries and lots of toasty oak. Full-bodied and supple. The Valdiguié grape adds plushness to this blend. Pair this wine with grilled pork chops. Pinot Noir food pairings: coffee-rubbed steak, duck, veal. Drink: 2013 - 2017 361717 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rocca Delle Macìe Riserva Chianti Classico 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A dark, mouth-watering Italian red wine with black fruit and toasty almost charred oak. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2013 - 2017 930966 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viña Ventisquero Queulat Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Colchagua Valley, Chile: A terrific Chilean red wine at a great price. Notes of black cherries and cocoa on the nose and palate. Finishes with toasty vanilla spice, dark cherry and smoke. Very dry, and ultimately satisfying. Pair this beauty with pepperoni pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 61937 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Finca El Encinal Crianza 2010, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: Full-bodied with mature aromas of leather, cigar box and dry black cherry. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 355081 14% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Elderton High Altitude Shiraz 2012, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Savoury, juicy, meaty with mouth-watering flavours of black and purple plums. Round and mouth-filling. Wow. Pair with meat lovers pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2018 382366 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

San Felice Il Grigio Riserva Chianti Classico 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Smooth and robust with attractive wild black cherry and dark spices. Mouth-watering and very food friendly. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2013 - 2018 716266 14% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

d'Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, savoury and delicious Australian red wine with black fruit and cedar. Smooth and long. The result is an intensely concentrated Cab that finishes with terrific notes of vanilla smoke, chocolate and black fruits. Pair this hearty red wine with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hamburgers, steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 943456 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Akarua Pinot Noir 2012, Bannockburn, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: A gloriously vibrant New Zealand Pinot Noir that's medium-bodied and packed with flavour. A rich, silky Pinot bursting with ripe cherries and wild berries. Small kick of spice on the finish. Closed with a screwcap. Try it tonight with roast chicken, and invite me along please. Match this wine with lamb, duck, or turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: duck with mango, fried turkey, matzo ball soup, pepperoni pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2020 79541 14% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Hedonist Walter Clappis Wine Co. Shiraz 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: This towering, blockbuster Australian red wine from Walter Clappis Wine Co. delivers! Down Under intensity and concentration of flavour. Savory, meaty and juicy with luscious layers of black fruit. This is a big-boned wine, yet balanced. Love the replays of fleshy blackberries and plums across the palate. Signature McLaren Vale Shiraz with smoky, toasty oak and charred black plums in an attractive way. Shiraz food pairings: bison steak, grilled cheese sandwich, chicken marsala, Mexican dishes, tandoori flavored dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2018 90191 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cusumano Noà 2011, Sicily I.G.T., Italy: Exceptional value and quality in this southern Italian red wine for the price! This full-bodied Sicilian red 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 40% Nero d'Avola, 30% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Nero d'Avola is the flagship red wine of Sicily: try it tonight with hamburgers. There were 175 cases of this wine produced for this vintage. Food pairings: hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 109512 12.5% XD 750 mL $33.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Josef Chromy Pepik Pinot Noir 2012, Tasmania, Australia: This bottling from Josef Chromy is juicy, racy and mouth-watering as red cherries dance across your mouth, waking up on your senses in a pure Aussie fruit sensation. This isn’t earthy or spicy: it’s sunny and tasty and complex. Finishes long and smooth with black cherry and pepper. Great concentration and focus of flavour. Try this Pinot Noir with roast turkey. Pinot Noir food pairings: salmon steaks, pork, spaghetti Bolognese, veal, roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2018 162990 13.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Le Clos Des Cazaux La Tour Sarrazine 2012, Gigondas, Rhône A.C., France: Black cherry liqueur and kirsch on the nose and palate. Gorgeous layers and mouth-filling richness yet it's not heavy. Hearty meat dishes please. Drink: 2014 - 2020 279562 14.6% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De Vieux Télégraphe Télégramme 2012, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Mature and robust with great complexity and concentration. Aromas of black cherry and cigar box. Pair with brisket. Drink: 2012 - 2020 292722 14.8% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tilenus Crianza Mencía 2006, Bierzo D.O., Spain: Very tannic but this big bruiser has potential not only to smooth out with cellar time and decanting but also to become integrated. Aromas and black fruit and toasty oak and black olive tapenade. Drink: 2015 - 2019 383992 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mollydooker Carnival Of Love Shiraz 2010, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Liquid cigar in the best sense -- so smoky and great! Black fruit and dried herbs and pipe tobacco and cigar box. Pair with brontosaurus burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2019 242743 15.5% XD 750 mL $114.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stags' Leap Winery The Leap Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, California, United States: A benchmark Californian Cabernet Sauvignon from the heart of Napa Valley. This stunning red wine offers layered complexity and flavour. Aromas of ripe blackberries mingle with cedar. Great length, depth, balance and savoury character. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, prime rib. Drink: 2015 - 2022 142844 14.5% XD 750 mL $125.95 Score: 94/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ravenswood Teldeschi Single Vineyard Zinfandel 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Incredibly rich, full-bodied, concentrated and delicious! This is old vine Californian Zinfandel at its best. Pair with cured meats. Drink: 2012 - 2019 684589 14.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2010, Veneto D.O.C.G., Italy: Smoky and dark yet elegant in a muscular way. This brooding Italian red wine offers black fruit aromas and smoke on the nose. Underneath and on the palate there's a sensual layer of black fleshy ripe fruit and dark spices. Oh yes! Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: borscht, beef, lentil patties, osso buco. Drink: 2015 - 2023 356220 15% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 95/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château de Beaucastel 2012, Châteauneuf Du Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Beautifully made with superb craftsmanship! Full-bodied, concentrated and complex with layers of rich black fruit flavour and smoke. Great cellar potential but why wait? Drink: 2012 - 2020 711317 14.5% XD 750 mL $89.95 Score: 95/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Black Hills Estate Winery Syrah 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: I can't believe that the alcohol level on this wine isn't higher than 13% given it's heft and mouth-filling flavour. Deft winemaking at work here. Gorgeous supple texture and mouth-feel. Full-bodied and balanced with aromas of dark fruit, mocha and cedar. Perfect for hearty meaty dishes, especially grilled pork chops. Drink: 2015 - 2019 22633 13% D 750 mL $46.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Monte Quieto Quieto 3 Malbec 2009, Mendoza, Argentina: Inky black and savoury with meaty, cedar notes and wild black fruit. Drink: 2012 - 2015 275701 14.3% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cellar Hand Punch Down Red 2012, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Lots of mocha, espresso and dark chocolate on the nose of this full-bodied, smooth red wine from BC produced by Black Hills Winery. Some savoury notes mid-palate with a dark chocolate finish. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2016 13.4% D 750 mL $25.00 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Veuve Clicquot Vintage Rosé Champagne 2005, A.C., Champagne, France: Supremely satisfying and lovely... just like Mom. Hint. Gorgeous notes of field strawberry and some subtle smoke on a long, refreshing finish. Mouth-watering and crisp with some orange citrus lift on the mid-palate. Some kind of wonderful. Drink: 2013 - 2018 588475 12% D 750 mL $97.95 Score: 96/100. November 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tawse Winery Inc. Spark Brut 2012, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Ontario bubbly is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris grapes. Good acidity and toastiness on the nose and palate. This half bottle is a nice way to start a meal with a toast. Drink: 2014 - 2016 404558 12% XD 375 mL $14.95 Score: 86/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Oyster Bay Sparkling Wine, Marlborough, New Zealand: This New Zealand Brut Cuvée Sparkling Wine is toasty and vibrant with green apple. Zesty refreshment. Clink! Pair with fried chicken or fish and chips. Sparkling Wine food pairings: grilled calamari, oysters, pan-seared scallops, squash soup, pork spare ribs. Drink: 2013 - 2015 238195 12% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bailly Lapierre Réserve Brut Crémant De Bourgogne, Burgundy A.C., France: Love it! This Réserve Brut from Bailly Lapierre shows just how great non-vintage Champagne can be. Warm and toasty with aromas of baked bread, fresh apples and peaches. Stunningly great price. Great persistence of bubbles. Pair with fired chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2016 991562 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Henry of Pelham Winery Cuvée Catharine Carte Blanche Blancs De Blanc 2009, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Zesty, refreshing and balanced Niagara sparkling wine with crisp notes of green apple and baked bread. Superb quality. Great persistence of beaded bubbles along the sides of the glass as well as the mouse crowning the top. Finishes crisply with green granny smith apple and lime zest notes. Why pay double or tripe for non-vintage champagne when you can have three bottles of this lovely bubbly? Blanc de blanc means that this sparkling wine was made from white grapes only. Pair with fried chicken or potato chips. Blancs De Blanc food pairings: shellfish, fried foods, Asian fusion dishes, salad. Drink: 2013 - 2017 315200 12.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Laurent-Perrier Brut Millésimé Champagne 2004, Champagne A.C., France: A Classic Champagne from a very respected producer. Crisp, toasty, bubbly and refreshing with notes of lemon zest and baked bread. Pair with fresh seafood. Drink: 2010 - 2019 983874 12.5% XD 750 mL $84.95 Score: 92/100. November 2014. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Macrostie Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Green apple brightness but not huge acidity on this medium-bodied Californian white wine. This Chardonnay has some toasty oak. Soft and round. Drink: 2012 - 2016 244467 14.5% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fielding Estate Winery Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2013, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Light and subtle with some white melon not a lot of acidity. Fresh and soft. Nice aperitif sipping wine. Chardonnay food pairings: smoked haddock cakes, grilled pork chops, roast chicken. Drink: 2013 - 2015 355842 12.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nyarai Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Good balance and acidity in this medium-bodied Niagara white wine. Aromas of nettle with a mid-palate lime lift, not too much acidity and not grassy. The winemaker is Steve Byfield. Pair with vegetarian dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2015 378398 12.7% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mission Hill S.L.C. Chardonnay 2011, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: Soft acidity, almost full-bodied weight in this BC Chardonnay with hazelnut and white peach richness. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: rolled chicken stuffed with cheese. Drink: 2012 - 2017 144170 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Saint-Roch Vielles Vignes Blanc 2016, Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: Soft and round French white wine with good minerality and medium acidity. This balanced wine sources grapes from old vines that are hand picked, low yield and dry grown Pair with pork tenderloin. Food pairings: roast turkey with all the trimmings, tender roast pork. Drink: 2018 - 2020 175232 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casas del Bosque Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Casablanca Valley, Chile: This Reserva Sauvignon Blanc is grassy-good with refreshing herbals aromas. Oak-free and pure, fresh Chilean white wine. Crisp 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, bell peppers, cheeses, shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2015 974717 12.5% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frescobaldi Castello Di Pomino Bianco 2013, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: A soft, mellow white wine that's ideal as an aperitif or companion to fresh light seafood dishes. Not a lot of acidity, very elegant. Food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, garden salad. Drink: 2013 - 2016 65086 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Eberle Estate Mill Road Vineyard Viognier 2012, Paso Robles, California, United States: Classic lychee and rose petal aromas on the nose with baking spices on the finish. Full-bodied, rich and mouth-filling. Pair with mild to medium curries and spices. Viognier food pairings: basil cream pesto pasta. Drink: 2013 - 2017 313478 15% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Principessa Gavia Gavi Vigne Regali 2013, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Pure lemon sunshine in this zesty Italian white wine from Vigne Regali (Gavi)! Clean, crisp and refreshing with terrific mouth-watering acidity for seafood and salads. Medium-bodied layers of pleasure in this DOCG wine. This would also be a great aperitif. Finishes crisply with notes of chives and lemon. Food pairings: lighter fish dishes, salad. Drink: 2014 - 2017 250696 12% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Billaud-Simon Montée De Tonnerre Chablis 2009, Burgundy A.C., France: Clean and crisp with fresh apple notes yet not overwhelming acidity. This Old World classic Chardonnay has no oak. The 2009 vintage of the Chablis Montee de Tonnerre is complex and layered. Long finish. Chablis food pairings: chicken in a garlic, white wine sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 325241 13% XD 750 mL $47.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

McWilliams Wines Semillon 2007, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: The Semillon grapes for this spectacular white wine are sourced from the Mount Pleasant Elizabeth vineyard. There's nothing like Australian Semillon grape-based wines: you must try this one if you haven't sampled their delights previously. Semillon from Australia also differs vastly from Semillon in other regions of the world: here it has a complex beeswax, dry honey and lanolin bouquet and mouth-filling texture. Terrific balancing acidity for a wide range of dishes and a long finish to make you return to this bottle again and again. Pair with pork chops. Semillon food pairings: smoked salmon, shellfish, antipasti, poultry, veal. Drink: 2014 - 2020 724492 10.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay 2011, Monterey, California, United States: Superb Californian Chardonnay from a cool climate that results in a racy energy running through this robust white wine! Buttery Chardonnay with layers of full-bodied goodness. My mouth is watering. Chardonnay food pairings: pan-seared scallops, blackened chicken, lobster, corn-on-the-cob. Drink: 2013 - 2018 979344 13.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chapel Hill Chardonnay 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Lovely balance between oaky buttery richness and some vibrant mouth-watering acidity. Make this luscious full-bodied white very food friendly. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: shellfish with melted garlic butter. Drink: 2013 - 2017 34397 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Waimea Estates Chardonnay 2012, Nelson, South Island, Australia: Buttery, rich and round and surprisingly full for New Zealand. Caramel dripped over red apple. Yum! Chardonnay food pairings: pork tenderloin, linguini with clams and fennel. Drink: 2013 - 2016 650242 13.5% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Schieferkopf Riesling 2011, Alsace A.C., France: There's a deep core of minerality here in this vibrant French white wine with a laser like focus and lime lift through the mid-palate. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: planked salmon, shellfish. Drink: 2012 - 2018 390609 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Michel Caillot La Barre Dessus-Clos Marguerite Meursault 2010, Burgundy A.C., France: Nutty hazelnut toasted almond richness with green apple dipped in salty butter. Lovely Old World Chardonnay from the heart of Burgundy. Food pairings: Brazilian slow-cooked pork. Drink: 2013 - 2022 20545 13% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pahlmeyer Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: Full-bodied, rich and delicious Californian Chardonnay from one of its best-known and most respected producers. This full-bodied white wine features lovely aromas and flavour of ripe peach, pear and toasted almond. Pair it with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, breads, cheese, poultry. Drink: 2013 - 2019 147454 14.9% D 750 mL $96.95 Score: 94/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Paco & Lola Albariño 2013, Rías Baixas D.O., Spain: Crisp and clean on the nose: that freshness follows through on the palate and finish. Lime and white grapefruit with loads of mouth-watering acidity and clean refreshment. No oak. Great aperitif or companion to salads and seafood. I'd love this with shellfish. This Spanish white wine has loads of acidity and lime green notes. Albariño is a native grape to this region. Albariño food pairings: green salad, fresh seafood, shellfish. Drink: 2013 - 2016 350041 12.5% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. November 2014. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tramin Pinot Grigio 2013, Südtirol-Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: Terrific refreshment in this Italian Pinot Grigio! Limes, chives and lemon lift in this gloriously fresh white wine. Great aperitif or companion to seafood and shellfish. Pinot Grigio food pairings: seafood, liver paté, cheese, poultry, quiche, risotto with mushrooms. Drink: 2013 - 2015 627059 12.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. November 2014. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jermann Pinot Grigio 2013, Venezia Giulia, Friuli I.G.T., Italy: This is one of the best, if not the best, Italian Pinot Grigios I've tasted. Sure, the price reflects that but it's worth seeing how vibrant and full of character Pinot Grigio can be with this benchmark wine. Zesty, refreshing and alive in the glass. Aromas of white peach, lime and white grapefruit. Incredibly refreshing and mouth-watering. Great as an aperitif or with many dishes, from seafood to salad. Great structure and finish. Says winemaker Silvio Jermann: "Wines should move us, prompt our emotions and have a sense of authenticity." Amen. Pinot Grigio food pairings: salads, vegetarian dishes, seafood, cheese, poultry. Drink: 2013 - 2016 117093 12.5% XD 750 mL $37.95 Score: 93/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2011, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Rounded and ripe white peach and pear on the nose and palate of this mouth-filling, balanced Niagara Chardonnay. Green apple emerges mid-palate and there's a long, crisp finish. Drink: 2013 - 2018 33936 13.5% XD 750 mL $30.00 Score: 91/100. November 2014. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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