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Vintages Release March 21, 2015

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Argentina

Mendel Lunta Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied with black fruit, tar and smoke aromas on the nose. A firm grip on the palate that will benefit from decanting 2 hours. Terrific for hearty meat dishes. Finishes with woodsmoke and black fleshy fruit. Pair with grilled pork chops. Malbec food pairings: cheese pizza, veal, beef, chicken herb-rubbed roast, hearty soups. Drink: 2012 - 2015 261917 14.3% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 86/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: A full-bodied, rich red Argentine wine with aromas and flavours black plum, pepper and dark spices on the finish. This muscular wine will elbow its way in beside a rare steak or prime rib. It's strong, but not overpowering like the ideal dinner companion conversation. Malbec is Argentina's flagship red wine grape, and this producer excels at the style of wine. Pair with grilled meats. Malbec food pairings: pepperoni pizza, radicchio, lamb cutlets, beef tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 105956 14% XD 750 mL $17.00 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luca Syrah 2012, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: A seductive nose of coffee and brooding black fleshy fruit opens up to mouth-filling richness on the palate. Velvet layers of dark fruit, tanned leather and cigar box. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. Syrah food pairings: chargrilled pork chop with braised red cabbage, burgers with blue cheese, wild mushroom strudel, fajitas, prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2018 167346 14% XD 750 mL $25.25 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chakana 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Black fruit with loads of smoke from oak aging. Big and brooding Argentine red wine. Drink: 2013 - 2017 322602 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pascual Toso Reserve Barracas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Mendoza, Argentina: Classic cassis, wild tart blackberry and some mint on the nose of this Argentine red wine. Full-bodied with a firm grip on the palate so decant for 1-2 hours. Very satisfying. This winery is a rising star among Argentina's producers. Enjoy it tonight with meat lovers' pizza and a movie. A good value. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: burgers, steak, ribs, meat sauce pastas. Drink: 2013 - 2017 83337 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

Tahbilk Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Nagambie Lakes, Victoria, Australia: Mature, full-bodied and balanced with seductive aromas of black fruit and smoke. The grapes for this wine come from a blend of six vineyards planted between 1949 and 2001. Pair with a pepper steak. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans, sizzling New York strip steaks, veal, Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2013 - 2018 138818 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Juicy, meaty, savoury and mouth-watering. An awesome full-bodied Australian red wine with fleshy dark red and black fruit aromas. Not too heavy, just right. Meaty dishes please. Great price. Finishes with great complexity and concentration of flavour. Pair with spring lamb. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans, sizzling New York strip steaks, veal Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2018 360636 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Schild Estate Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, Australia: Big fleshy blackberries and black plums roll off the nose of this fabulous Australian red wine, followed by savoury goodness and mouth-watering juiciness on the palate. Layers of pleasure with a long finish. Some dark spice and smoke on the finish. Oh double yum. There's some dark spice, hickory smoke-matchstick, black fruit and deeply seated longing and desire on the finish. Give this wine the filet mignon it deserves. Shiraz food pairings: veal, roasted stuffed turkey, hamburgers, pizza, barbecued beef. Drink: 2013 - 2019 66555 14.7% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Yalumba The Guardian Shiraz Viognier 2010, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Mocha and dark chocolate with lots of toasty oak. Charred black fruit and smoke. Full-bodied and smooth. Demands steak. Shiraz Viognier food pairings: grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, braised pork shanks with white beans, roast leg of lamb and root vegetables, Asian chicken salad, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2012 - 2017 396499 14.5% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Charles Cimicky Reserve Shiraz 2012, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This smoky, robust Australian red wine offers mocha-espresso and black fruit aromas on the nose and palate. Gorgeous mouth-coating texture and full-bodied weight. Pair with gourmet hamburgers. Swoon-worthy. Shiraz food pairings: fajitas, marinated pepper steaks, burgers with blue cheese, chargrilled pork chop. Drink: 2013 - 2019 685594 14.5% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jip Jip Rocks Unoaked Chardonnay 2014, Padthaway, South Australia, Australia: This medium-bodied unoaked Australian chardonnay offers fresh and pure with aromas of green apple and lime. No oak, no heaviness: run free in your bare feet! A crisp green melon finish. Perfect for fresh seafood. The Padthaway wine region of Australia is one of three cool climate areas known for producing terrific unoaked Chardonnay. The other two are Tumbarumba and Tasmania. Pair this white wine with roast chicken or turkey. Chardonnay food pairings: calamari, turkey pot pie, cheese, grilled chicken, pork. Drink: 2014 - 2018 175752 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Organized Crime Winery Chardonnay 2012, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A vibrant Chardonnay with lovely balance: white peach and Asian pear. Criminally good quality for the price. Pair with get out of jail cards from Monopoly. Chardonnay food pairings: spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 408435 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fielding Estate Winery Estate Bottled Riesling 2014, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A medium sweet Niagara Riesling with mouth-watering juiciness and lovely aromas of ripe peach and pear. Pair with seafood and shellfish. Riesling food pairings: grilled chicken with lemongrass stalk, spicy pasta dishes, Feta cheese, butternut squash risotto, duck liver pate. Drink: 2014 - 2018 251439 10.5% M 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Flat Rock Nadja's Vineyard Riesling 2013, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This lovely off-dry Niagara Riesling is bursting with aromas of fresh citrus, lime and green apple. two weeks later than the parcel below the winery. Although the 2013 vintage in Niagara was a cool one, which benefited white wines, especially Riesling. Remarkable, even though there are 18 grams of sugar in this wine, the acidity balances it perfectly, yielding only a slight impression of sweetness. Terrific mouth-watering acidity for seafood and salads. Riesling food pairings: grilled chicken with lemongrass stalk, spicy pasta dishes, Feta cheese, butternut squash risotto, duck liver pate. Drink: 2013 - 2018 578625 10.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. March 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Valle Secreto First Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Cachapoal Valley, Chile: Full-bodied Chilean red wine, smooth with black fruit and toasty oak. Perfect for meat lovers' pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, braised pork shanks with white beans, roast leg of lamb and root vegetables, Asian chicken salad, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2016 298042 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bisquertt La Joya Gran Reserva Syrah 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Black fruit and lots of charred oak. Full-bodied. Pair with a pepper steak. Syrah food pairings: rare roast beef with oven roasted potatoes, burgers with blue cheese, chargrilled pork chop, grilled bison strip steaks, Muscovy duck. Drink: 2013 - 2016 325407 14.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Casa Silva Los Lingues Gran Reserva Carmenère 2012, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Tasty and savoury with dark toasty fruit. Full-bodied and smooth. Concentrated, intense aromas and flavours of black fruit dipped in racy, dark spices. There's an expansive peacock spread of flavours on the palate of glorious, fleshy fruit. A real wow wine. Carmenère food pairings: pizza, pepper steak, gourmet hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 236314 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Carolina Gran Reserva Chardonnay 2012, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Stunning for this price point! Rich, toasted almonds wrap around a core of green apple vibrancy in this Chilean white wine made from Chardonnay grapes. Balanced and luscious, with loads of hedonistic happiness. This is an amazing party wine and it also works well for dinner parties. Finished with buttered toast and apple-nut aromas. Pair with roast chicken tonight. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, roast pork, prawn bisque, cheese fondue, stuffed chicken breast, roast turkey. Drink: 2013 - 2017 928580 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Matetic Eq Pinot Noir 2012, Casablanca Valley, San Antonio Valley, Chile: Minty cherry with mouth-watering acidity. Smooth and medium-bodied. Pair with planked salmon or seared tuna. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal stew with sautéed vegetables, roast quail wrapped in prosciutto, beef bourguignon, grilled tuna with a pepper crust, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 21952 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Manoir Du Carra Les Bottières Juliénas 2012, Burgundy A.C., France: Such a happy French wine from the southern Burgundian region of Beaujolais. This is definitely not Nouveau. Cherry-berry jubilee in your mouth with a touch of green herbal notes that give a pleasant bite and refreshment. Supple and medium bodied. Drink: 2013 - 2017 405696 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Peyros Vieilles Vignes Madiran 2009, Southwest A.C., France: Minty-band-aid, medicinal on the nose in a good way with wild blackberry notes mingling in. Full-bodied, rustic and raring to go. Food pairings: roast veal, wild boar, aged meats and cheeses, venison, herbed roast beef. Drink: 2013 - 2018 234997 13.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pontet-Canet 2011, Pauillac, Bordeaux A.C., France: A surprisingly great Bordeaux from a touch vintage. Balanced, complex, concentrated and offering a long finish. Black fruit, toasty oak and tar. There are several different product codes for the exact same wine in this release. Drink: 2015 - 2021 297739 13.5% XD 750 mL $159.85 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pontet-Canet 2011, Pauillac, Bordeaux A.C., France: A surprisingly great Bordeaux from a touch vintage. Balanced, complex, concentrated and offering a long finish. Black fruit, toasty oak and tar. There are several different product codes for the exact same wine in this release. Drink: 2015 - 2021 297747 13.5% XD 750 mL $159.85 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pontet-Canet 2011, Pauillac, Bordeaux A.C., France: A surprisingly great Bordeaux from a touch vintage. Balanced, complex, concentrated and offering a long finish. Black fruit, toasty oak and tar. There are several different product codes for the exact same wine in this release. Drink: 2015 - 2021 298885 13.5% XD 750 mL $159.85 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Pontet-Canet 2011, Pauillac, Bordeaux A.C., France: A surprisingly great Bordeaux from a touch vintage. Balanced, complex, concentrated and offering a long finish. Black fruit, toasty oak and tar. There are several different product codes for the exact same wine in this release. Drink: 2015 - 2021 300335 13.5% XD 750 mL $159.85 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Clerc Milon 2011, Pauillac, Bordeaux A.C., France: A big, brooding black Bordeaux wine with complex layers of black fruit, smoke and oak. In 1855, Chateau Clerc Milon was classified a fifth grow (5e Cru), and then in 1970 Baron Philippe de Rothschild bought the property. Drink: 2014 - 2020 301119 14% XD 750 mL $89.85 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Le Verger Chablis 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Green apple freshness and a little creaminess here on this classic Burgundian Chardonnay. No oak aging, which is the tradition in Chablis. Good mineral finish. Pair with shellfish. Chablis food pairings: seafood, shellfish, turkey pot pie, grilled chicken, pork. Drink: 2013 - 2018 181289 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wolfberger Signature Pinot Gris 2013, Alsace A.C., France: Clean and crisp with just a touch of sweetness. Medium-bodied and refreshing. Pair with seafood or crabs legs. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey, duck rillettes with apricot purée, fresh pan fried seafood, pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 398172 12.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Du Grand Tinel Alexis Establet 2012, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: Black cherry liqueur decadence and hedonism. Although this wine clocks in at 15.5% it doesn't taste hot or out of balance, just beautifully rich and mouth-filling. Smooth. Drink: 2014 - 2020 993899 15.5% XD 750 mL $63.95 Score: 93/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Sergent 2011, Madiran, Southwest A.C., France: Black as night in colour, taste and aroma. Tarry, black fruit and toasty oak. Savoury, meaty and well-priced. Cries out for a big slab of steak. Drink: 2013 - 2018 251561 15% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Belle-Vue 2011, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Big tannic grip on the palate so decant 2 hours. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Big black fruit aromas and flavours with loads of toasty oak. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2014 - 2019 294421 13% XD 750 mL $27.85 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Paul Jaboulet Aîné Secret De Famille 2012, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Very well-priced French red wine from the southern region of Cotes du Rhone. Smooth and full-bodied with attractive dark cherry and cedar brush. Drink: 2013 - 2018 400333 14% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Bel Air 2010, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: Savoury and woodsy Bordeaux at a reasonable price. Tart blackcurrant and cassis with some smoke from toasty oak. Drink: 2014 - 2019 403717 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bouchard Pere & Fils Volnay 2011, Burgundy A.C., France: The 2011 vintage was a tough one but this Burgundian Pinot Noir still manages to offer lovely tart cherry fruit, spring rain earth and lots of mouth-watering acidity. Drink: 2014 - 2019 403741 12.5% XD 750 mL $62.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Vincens 2011, Cahors A.C., France: A full-bodied southern French red wine from the region of Cahors, with mocha-dark chocolate aromas from oak aging, and fleshy black fruit. Great for pizza. Finishes with dark spices. Pair with meat lovers' pizza tonight. Food pairings: pizza (cheese), veal, beef, chicken herb-rubbed roast, hearty soups. Drink: 2013 - 2018 343400 14.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2011, Margaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas and flavours of black fruit, cigar box and tobacco leaves. This wine in this release has several different product codes. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 298901 14% XD 750 mL $89.85 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2011, Margaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas and flavours of black fruit, cigar box and tobacco leaves. This wine in this release has several different product codes. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 298919 14% XD 750 mL $89.85 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2011, Margaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas and flavours of black fruit, cigar box and tobacco leaves. This wine in this release has several different product codes. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 298976 14% XD 750 mL $165.00 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2011, Margaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas and flavours of black fruit, cigar box and tobacco leaves. This wine in this release has several different product codes. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 298984 14% XD 750 mL $89.85 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2011, Margaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: A full-bodied Bordeaux with aromas and flavours of black fruit, cigar box and tobacco leaves. This wine in this release has several different product codes. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 301101 14% XD 750 mL $89.85 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Philipponnat Royale Réserve Brut Champagne, Champagne A.C., France: A toasty, crisp, refreshing Champagne at a great price. Pair with fried chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 995720 12% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Top Rated Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

E. Guigal 2013, Côtes Du Rhône A.C., France: Fragrant and floral and expressively aromatic French white wine from the Rhone Valley. Drink: 2013 - 2017 290296 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trimbach Riesling 2010, Alsace A.C., France: Trimbach is one of Alsace’s most respected wineries, especially when it comes to classic, bone-dry Riesling from this northern French region that borders Germany. Terrific mouth-watering goodness for a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to vegetarian. Highly recommended. Riesling food pairings: grilled chicken with lemongrass stalk, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate. Drink: 2012 - 2018 734517 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Germany

Dr. Hermann Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett 2010, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: Sweet and gorgeous but not a dessert wine: beautiful replays of flavour across the palate of fresh apricot and peach. Drink: 2012 - 2019 402420 8.5% S 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Schloss Saarstein Serrig Schloss Saarsteiner Riesling Spätlese 2011, Pradikätswein, Mosel, Germany: Gorgeous concentration and profusion of flavour: ripe apricot, peach and pear. Drink: 2013 - 2020 400838 8.5% S 750 mL $41.95 Score: 93/100. March 2015. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Bocale Montefalco Sagrantino 2010, Umbria D.O.C.G., Italy: Plushly ripe black plums on the nose and palate. Extremely big tannic grip on the palate. Needs cellar time. Decant 2 hours and enjoy with brontosaurus burgers. Drink: 2015 - 2020 407155 15% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marchesi de Frescobaldi Tenuta Di Castiglioni 2011, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A smoky Italian red wine with attractive aromas of sun-dried tomato, dried herbs and black cherry. Layered and complex. Great wine for hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2019 145920 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello di Gabbiano Chianti 2013, Tuscany Docg, Italy: Attractive nose of cedar brush and wild tart black cherry. Medium-bodied and smooth with great mouth-watering, acidity for a wide range of dishes, from pasta in tomato sauce to spicy sausages. Chianti food pairings: pastas with mushroom sauce, aromatized white meat, roast lamb, or half-mature cheese.. Drink: 2016 - 2019 78006 12.5% D 750 mL $15.00 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello di Gabbiano Chianti Classico 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A smooth, full-bodied Italian red wine made from the classic Tuscan red grape Sangiovese. This wine has tart dark berry notes, cigar box and lots of juicy acidity that cries out for food. Feed this wine pizza or lasagna. Chianti Classico food pairings: pizza, sausages, lasagna. Drink: 2014 - 2018 219808 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Remo Farina Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2011, Veneto D.O.C.G, Italy: Towering, blockbuster amarone with mouth-coating texture and a voluptuous full-bodied weight. Big black fruit, tarry oak, smoke and black spice aromas. Don't waffle with this wine as it won't put up with indecisiveness. Drink or move on. (I suggest you drink.) The 2012 vintage of this Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is classic Amarone. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: chicken herb-rubbed roast, breaded veal cutlets, duck breast with celeriac purée, grilled steaks, cheese pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2020 995910 14.5% D 750 mL $36.95 Score: 93/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Nals Margreid Pinot Grigio 2013, Südtirol - Alto Adige D.O.C., Italy: Juicy, refreshing, clean and crisp Italian white wine with notes of lime and grapefruit. Pair with clams and oysters. Pinot Grigio food pairings: linguine with shrimp and lemon oil, pasta with cream sauce, grilled chicken breast, summer salads, frittata. Drink: 2013 - 2016 17365 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tommasi Arele Parziale Appassimento 2012, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Peppery red berry fruit and a supple smooth texture. Medium to almost full-bodied. This doesn't taste like the extracted Appassimento style in a good way. Very savoury. Drink: 2014 - 2018 224188 13% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Amisfield Pinot Noir 2011, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Ripe, fleshy cherries and raspberries wrapped in toasty oak on this New Zealand red wine. Medium- to full-bodied, plush and smooth. This is liquid satin for the senses. Don't wait for a special occasion though, drink it with dinner tonight and it will become a special occasion. Pair this New Zealand Pinot Noir with salmon or tuna. Pinot Noir food pairings: crisp garden salad, veal chops, grilled duck sausages, fresh seafood pan fried. Drink: 2012 - 2019 179754 14% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 93/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sileni Estates Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy-great refreshment with vibrant herbal and lime-citrus aromas on this well-respected New Zealand white wine made from the country's iconic grape Sauvignon Blanc. Medium-bodied with lots of mouth-watering acidity. Perfect for salads and vegetarian dishes. Finishes with notes of gooseberry, passionfruit and citrus. A party favourite. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: green salads, eggplant-garlic dips, cheese, shellfish, corned beef and cabbage. Drink: 2014 - 2017 662882 12.5% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Via Latina Alvarinho 2013, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: Crisp and clean with loads of mouth-watering acidity. Lime and grapefruit notes. Pair with seafood. OTH Drink: 2013 - 2016 398644 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Burmester Reserva 2011, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: The 2011 vintage of the Reserva Sogevinus is a blockbuster Portuguese red wine. Black fruit and toasty oak on the finish. Good acidity for food. Full-bodied and a firm grip on the palate so decant 1-2 hours and pair with a hearty meat dish. Food pairings: barbecued chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 266957 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

KWV Brut Méthode Cap Classique Kwv Sparkling White 2014, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: A pleasant, remarkably well-priced bubbly with toasty peach fruit goodness. Great for parties. This W.O. sparkling wine offers great refreshment with a lemon crisp finish. Made by KWV using the Méthode Cap Classique. Try it with shellfish. Sparkling White food pairings: cheese, poultry, pasta with cheese-based sauce, seafood , snack foods. Drink: 2015 - 2018 296426 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Mentors Kwv Shiraz 2011, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Supple and full-bodied with sweet black plums aromas and flavours. Nice pairing for hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2018 403618 14.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

KWV Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Paarl, South Africa: Lovely smoky, dark chocolate, mocha nose and palate from generous, but not heavy-handed oak aging. Rich, round and full-bodied. This is a terrific South African red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for the price. Drink: 2018 - 2020 328567 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tormentoso Bush Vine Pinotage 2013, Coastal Region, Paarl W.O., South Africa: Coffee espresso mocha nose from oak aging with a firm attach of acidity on the palate. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2013 - 2016 399527 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 86/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roodeberg 2012, Western Cape Wo, South Africa: A supple, smooth, full-bodied South African red wine with lovely aromas of cherry-berry, but not sweet, all wrapped in just enough toasty oak. Amazingly great value and price. Drink: 2012 - 2016 7187 14% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Cape Point W.O., South Africa: Lemon zest and lemongrass aromas with grapefruit freshness and sunshine happiness. Clean and refreshing. Finishes with white grapefruit and lime zest. Great value. An incredibly great wine for the money! This South African Sauvignon Blanc over delivers on every dimension: taste, food friendliness and price. Try it with fresh seafood. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cheese, shellfish, Caesar salad, corned beef and cabbage, turkey pot pie. Drink: 2013 - 2016 285221 13.5% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

Igneus Barranc Dels Closos 2012, Priorat D.O.C.A., Spain: Juicy purple plums and blueberry aromas and flavours on this full-bodied, smooth Spanish red wine. Pair with grilled pork chops for extra pleasure. Drink: 2013 - 2017 166660 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alto Moncayo Garnacha 2011, Campo De Borja D.O., Spain: The 16% alcohol made my nose hair stand up, but regardless this is a gorgeous wine. On the palate (past the hot nose) absolutely stunning flavors of fleshy black plum, blackberry and some smoke. Velvet texture. Love, love! Garnacha food pairings: veal stew with sautéed vegetables, roast quail wrapped in prosciutto, beef bourguignon, grilled tuna with a pepper crust, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2014 - 2018 396358 16% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 92/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alejandro Fernández Tinto Pesquera Reserva 2010, Ribera Del Duero D.O., Spain: The 2010 vintage of this Spanish Reserva red wine from Alejandro Fernández offers savoury aromas, rather than overtly fruity ones. Leather, smoke and nostalgia waft out of the bottle. Pair with pork tenderloin. Food pairings: rabbit sausage with lima beans, grape tomatoes and Swiss chard. Drink: 2011 - 2025 323345 14.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marqués de Cáceres Antea 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Great value in the glass. To add heft and richness to this Spanish white wine, the winery takes this blend of traditional -- Viura and Malvasia -- and uses French oak barriques, which impart more nuanced and subtle aromas and flavours than do the more commonly used American casks. Pair with seafood in a rich sauce. Food pairings: sea scallops pan-fried in butter. Drink: 2013 - 2017 518985 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 86/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tarima Hill Old Vines Monastrell 2011, Alicante, Jumilla D.O., Spain: Smoky mocha nose wraps around fleshy blackberry aromas. A smooth, full-bodied and attractive Spanish red wine made from the Monastrell grape. It offers a long finish infused with anise and dark floral notes. Very sexy. Nicely balanced. Highly recommended. Pair with leg of lamb. Monastrell food pairings: veal stew with sautéed vegetables, roast quail wrapped in prosciutto, beef bourguignon, grilled tuna with a pepper crust, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2018 310169 15% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Shafer Merlot 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: I’ve long been a fan of this aristocratic red wine from Napa. This wine comes off as beautifully polished, structured and elegant, and is a blend of 17% Cabernet Sauvignon; 7% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, fig, smoke and leather, it’s a classic. Pair with hanger steak. Merlot food pairings: rack of BBQ ribs, veal Porterhouse with mashed potatoes and green beans, grilled lamb, beef, cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2021 346262 15.1% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ironstone Old Vine Zinfandel 2013, Lodi, California, United States: Smoky great Californian red wine made from the state's classic Zinfandel grape, and offering lusciously ripe black and purple plum aromas. Please, tell me that campfire story again as the smoke swirls around my head and the stars above us on this mid-summer night. Perfect for grilled meats. Ironstone delivers extreme value in the glass at many price points. Pair this blockbuster red with BBQ chicken or ribs. Zinfandel food pairings: barbecued ribs, wings, burgers, spaghetti Bolognaise, aged cheddar. Drink: 2013 - 2018 951889 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.25 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: A generous and juicy Californian red wine blend, famous for having been in the movie Disclosure with Demi Moore and Michael Douglas. Aromas of fleshy black plums and toasty oak. Pair with corporate mergers and acquisitions of any kind. Food pairings: bucatini with sausage and peas, roast beef, cheesy pizza, stuffed roasted turkey. Drink: 2014 - 2019 329375 15.2% XD 750 mL $162.95 Score: 92/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Benton-Lane Estate Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Elegant and balanced, not overly fruity. Some earthy notes with cherry mingle on the palate. Medium- to almost full-bodied with vibrant mouth-watering acidity for a wide range of dishes from planked salmon to roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: crisp garden salad, veal chops, grilled duck sausages, fresh seafood pan fried. Drink: 2013 - 2018 407261 13.5% D 750 mL $35.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel 2012, Sonoma County, California, United States: A complex and balanced Californian red with classic aromas fleshy dark fruit and spices. Wonderfully structured: perfect for diner parties involving steak. This robust wine is a blend of Zinfandel, Carignan, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Mataro (aka Mourvèdre). The 2012 vintage of Ridge's Three Valleys is richly concentrated and complex. Polished tannins with a judicious use of oak. Pair with grilled meats. Zinfandel food pairings: zesty ribs, pulled pork, chicken wings, spaghetti, lamb shank. Drink: 2013 - 2018 652875 14.2% M 750 mL $59.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Buena Vista Chardonnay 2011, Sonoma County, California, United States: A medium to full-bodied Californian chardonnay with attractive notes of Asian pear and toasty oak. Chardonnay food pairings: spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2017 396440 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.75 Score: 87/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lemon brightness and mouth-watering acidity in the Californian Sauvignon Blanc. Some smoke from light oaking. Pair with smoke salmon. Drink: 2013 - 2017 27659 13.9% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clos Pegase Mitsuko's Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United States: Lovely hazelnut and toasted almond on the nose and palate of this full-bodied Chardonnay from generous oak aging. Notes of green apple and pear. Chardonnay food pairings: spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, lobster in butter sauce, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli served with Alfredo sauce, pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 986737 14.2% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frog's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Chalky dry Californian red wine, with enticing aromas of dark berries and cassis. Balanced and long. Elegant, not in your face. Complex, balanced and featuring a long finish. Pair with organic beef dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans, sizzling New York strip steaks, veal Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2020 27254 13.5% D 750 mL $68.95 Score: 92/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dominus Napanook Christian Moueix 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: A very Bordeaux style Napa red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot grapes. More earthy and elegant than not fruity for forward. Lovely earthy, smoky finish. Needs cellar time then still decant 2 hours when you open it. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2013 - 2020 212357 14.5% XD 750 mL $76.95 Score: 91/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Hilt The Vanguard Pinot Noir 2011, Santa Rita Hills, California, United States: Rich cherry-berry intensity on the nose and palate of this along full-bodied Californian Pinot Noir. Supple like liquid silk. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal stew with sautéed vegetables, roast quail wrapped in prosciutto, beef bourguignon, grilled tuna with a pepper crust, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2013 - 2019 407841 14.1% XD 750 mL $63.95 Score: 93/100. March 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ridge Estate Monte Bello Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Santa Cruz Mountains, California, United States: The 2011 vintage of the Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon has very attractive aromas and flavours of dark fruit, violets and smoke. Pair with grilled pork chops. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, braised pork shanks with white beans, roast leg of lamb and root vegetables, Asian chicken salad, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2014 - 2019 89284 14.5% XD 750 mL $61.95 Score: 90/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Liberty School Syrah 2012, Central Coast, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian red wine made from Syrah grapes with mocha and dark chocolate notes from generous oak aging. Smooth and supple. Soft, polished tannins. Nice with hamburgers. Drink: 2012 - 2017 942383 13.5% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: This Napa Cabernet is somewhat under-ripe and stemmy on the nose though riper dark fruit flavours emerge on the mid-palate. Decants 1-2 hours. Pair with rare filet mignon. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, beef enchiladas, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2020 71407 14.7% XD 750 mL $109.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cakebread Cellars Dancing Bear Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc 2011, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, United States: Slightly bitter blackberry on the palate with lots of mocha from generous oak aging. Supple, smooth and full-bodied. Drink: 2014 - 2018 220459 14.2% XD 750 mL $271.00 Score: 88/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cade Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, United States: A rich, complex, layered red wine offering classic cabernet sauvignon aromas of bitter somewhat tart black fruit, anise, cigar box and tanned leather. Balanced and robust. Perfect pairing for a rare filet mignon. Give it as a gift wine too. This top-notch Californian Cabernet Sauvignon sources grapes from Howell Mountain vineyards. The wine is made mostly from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, matured 18 months in 80% new French oak. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans, sizzling New York strip steaks, veal Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2014 - 2021 325027 14.5% D 750 mL $112.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Loaded with mocha and chocolate from lots of oak aging. Some sweet black plum notes under the oak. Supple and full-bodied. High alcohol at 15.5%. Pair with T-Rex burgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled New York strip loin with chimichurri sauce, braised pork shanks with white beans, roast leg of lamb and root vegetables, Asian chicken salad, Margherita pizza. Drink: 2013 - 2019 405209 15.5% XD 750 mL $100.00 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Dominus Christian Moueix 2011, Napa Valley, California, United States: A rich, dark nose of black fruit, smoke and tar aromas on this Californian red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Intensely concentrated yet supple red wine. Decant for 2 hours if you're going to drink soon (better to cellar). Dried tobacco and smoke on the finish, which is long. Food pairings: hearty meat dishes, hard cheese, braised pork shanks with white beans, sizzling New York strip steaks, veal Asian chicken salad. Drink: 2015 - 2021 212381 14.5% XD 750 mL $176.95 Score: 89/100. March 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kistler Mccrea Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma County, California, United States: A full-bodied Californian white wine with classic Chardonnay aromas of green apple, peach, butterscotch and smoke. Layered and complex. Kistler is known for producing benchmark Californian Chardonnay and it shows in this example. The 2012 vintage was bottled unfiltered and unfined and therefore may leave a natural sediment in the bottle. Don't worry. Pair with quail or Cornish hen. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster with melted butter, barbecued pork, roast chicken, beef bourguignon, linguini with clams and fennel. Drink: 2014 - 2020 353706 14.1% XD 750 mL $103.95 Score: 94/100. March 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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