Natalie MacLean - delicious wine picks and pairings
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Vintages Release May 30, 2015

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Argentina

Yauquen Bodega Ruca Malen Bonarda 2013, Mendoza, Argentina: Lots of campfire smoke and mocha on this robust Argentine red wine from toasty oak aging. Black fruit, smoke and tar notes through the core. Lots of acidity with tart fruit. Cries out for a rare steak. Bonarda food pairings: steak fajitas. Drink: 2014 - 2017 360115 13.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Trivento Golden Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Tart with lots of acidity and smoky dark toasty oak on this full-bodied Argentine red wine. Pair with a steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2017 400143 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Diamandes De Uco Malbec 2011, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Full-bodied and savoury with meaty notes of black fruit and toasty oak. Very robust and mouth-filling. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Malbec food pairings: cheese pizza, veal, beef, tagliatelle alla Bolognese (pasta), chicken herb-rubbed roast. Drink: 2014 - 2017 404145 14.5% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Australia

The Black Chook Shiraz Viognier 2013, South Australia, Australia: Surprisingly excellent for the price, wow. This full-bodied Australian red wine is a blend of mostly Shiraz and a splash of Viognier from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek. Aromas of blackberry jam lusciousness with some mint. Layers and layers and layers of pleasure. Eyes closed kinda wine. Some violets and cedar on this finish. Highly recommended. Loaded with fleshy ripe dark berries and vanilla spice from toasty oak aging. Good mouth-watering acidity on the palate leads to a clean finish. Pair with a juicy steak. Shiraz Viognier food pairings: rosemary lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 66738 14.9% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Serafino Shiraz 2012, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Coffee-smoke and espresso on the nose from oak aging followed by chary black fruit on the palate. Full-bodied with good acidity. Shiraz food pairings: espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak, lamb cutlets, burgers with blue cheese, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2018 407718 14% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

O'leary Walker Pinot Noir 2012, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Strong mint and eucalyptus on the nose, a bit medicinal. Tart black fruit and a firm tannic grip on the palate. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2013 - 2017 408419 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Juniper Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: A dark, smoky, toasty oak Australian red wine with black fruit flavours. Pair with grilled hamburgers. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2013 - 2017 694547 14.5% XD 750 mL $41.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Canada

Creekside Estate Winery Queenston Road Pinot Noir 2013, St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cherry-berry with some medicinal notes and lots of tart acidity. Medium-bodied and smooth. Pair with seared tuna. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2014 - 2017 415877 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Redstone Winery Cabernet 2012, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cocoa and mocha on the nose and palate from generous oak aging of this full-bodied, supple Niagara Cabernet. Finishes with coffee and espresso notes. Cabernet food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 415885 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Raven's Roost Coyote's Run Pinot Noir 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Sour cherry and tart cranberry with some stewed fruit on the finish. Medium-bodied, smooth with lots of acidity. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2013 - 2016 415828 13.5% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 86/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château des Charmes Cuvée D'andrée Rosé 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A deeply flavoured rose (for rose) with notes of dark cherry and ripe black raspberry. Good balance and refreshment. Works as an aperitif or companion to salmon. Rosé food pairings: planked salmon, pate. Drink: 2014 - 2016 333260 13% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Hungry Point Pinot Noir 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Love this style of Pinot Noir from the County! Sour cherry and tart cranberry make your mouth water, which is exactly what you need for so many dishes from grilled chicken to planked salmon. Medium-bodied, silky smooth. Drink: 2014 - 2017 422519 12% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hidden Bench Estate Riesling 2012, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula V.Q.A., Canada: Petrol lemon awesome. How do they get so much flavour with so much alcohol? Okay I know the answer but still. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, feta cheese, baby greens salad with fig dressing. Drink: 2013 - 2021 183491 11% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chile

Errázuriz Aconcagua Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Aconcagua Valley, Chile: A gloriously rich and robust Cabernet Sauvignon with 15% Cabernet France grapes in the blend from one of Chile's best-known and most-respected wineries. Classic aromas of cassis, blackberry and blackcurrant are wrapped luxuriously n vanilla smoke. Savoury, meaty and juicy with full-bodied weight and layers of dark fruit flavour. Concentrated, rich and deep. Long finish, great structure. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: herbed steaks, beef fajitas. Drink: 2013 - 2018 203364 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir 2012, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Juicy fleshy ripe cherry berry aromas and flavours on this delicious medium-bodied Chilean Pinot Noir. Amazingly great price. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2013 - 2017 37937 14% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

France

Altivitis Ventoux 2011, Rhône A.C., France: This is a full-bodied blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes. Lots of toasty oak and black fruit aromas. Amazing value and taste for the price. Food pairings: grilled chicken. Drink: 2014 - 2018 414359 14.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Les Aphillanthes Plan De Dieu Cuvée Des Galets 2011, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: A vibrant acidic attack on entry, this robust red wine has aromas and flavours of blackberry and tart blackcurrant. With a juicy steak or even pasta primavera, this wine wouldn't taste as acidic and would been quite tasty. Drink: 2014 - 2019 414367 15% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine les Grands Bois Cuvée Philippine 2013, Côtes Du Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Lots of fleshy purple plum and black licorice aromas and flavours on this robust, smooth French red wine. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2014 - 2018 286344 14.5% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Les Ormes De Pez 2011, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux A.C., France: Smokey with charred black fruit from generous oak aging. Full-bodied with a firm tannic grip on the palate. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2016 - 2020 296418 13% D 750 mL $55.85 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Louis Bouillot Perle D'ivoire Crémant De Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs Brut, Burgundy A.C., France: Crisp and clean with toasty warmth and green apple refreshment. A steal of a deal. The Burgundian estate of Louis Bouillot was one of the first wineries in the region to create sparkling wine, called Crémant de Bourgogne, back in 1877. This bubbly is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. Pair with fried chicken. Drink: 2015 - 2017 48801 12% M 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chàteau De Nages Jt Michel Gassier 2012, Costiéres De Nîmes, Rhône A.C., France: Rich and full-bodied with black cherry and black olive aromas and flavours. Juicy and supple. Hearty meat dishes, yes please! Drink: 2013 - 2018 736876 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Nairac 2011, Barsac, Bordeaux A.C., France: Lovely dessert wine with aromas of spice cake and apricot preserves. Perfect for foie gras or crème brûlée. Food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2013 - 2019 302125 13% S 375 mL $41.85 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaines Schlumberger Kessler Gewurztraminer 2010, Alsace A.C., France: The Grand Cru Alsatian dessert wine offers aromas of clementine, lychee, spices and rose water. Pair with spice cake. Gewurztraminer food pairings: spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts, pastries, fresh field berries in cream. Drink: 2013 - 2018 307694 13% MS 750 mL $33.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jean-Pierre Teissedre Morgon 2013, Burgundy A.C., France: Purple and juicy with mouth-watering acidity for roasted chicken and planked salmon. Medium-bodied and smooth. Drink: 2014 - 2017 405811 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roche De Bellene Vieilles Vignes Meursault 2010, Burgundy A.C., France: Classic Burgundian Chardonnay with incredible complexity, depth and richness. Green apple and hazelnut-infused smoke. Finishes with caramel, toffee and toasted almond. Pair with roasted chicken. Food pairings: trout in a white-wine sauce. Drink: 2012 - 2017 241091 12.7% D 750 mL $48.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château de Sancerre 2013, Sancerre, Loire A.C., France: This Sauvignon Blanc from the Old World has some lemon and smoke notes. Pair with fish in a lemon burr sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 340893 12.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ortas Prestige Rasteau, Cave De Rasteau 2010, Côtes-Du-Rhône-Villages A.C., France: Savoury and tasty with dark red spicy fruit in this AC-appellation southern French red wine. Full-bodied, juicy and smooth. Good value. A terrific, long, dry finish that leaves you longing for more. Pair with rack of lamb. Food pairings: rare beef. Drink: 2014 - 2019 985929 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine De La Vieille Julienne Les Trois Sources 2012, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône A.C., France: This is a towering, huge French red wine. You can taste the heat of 15.5% alcohol though it does have the fruit to support it. Big black fleshy fruit with blackberry liqueur concentration of aromas and flavours. Pair with brontosaurus burgers. Drink: 2015 - 2021 414433 15.5% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Perrin & Fils Les Christins Vacqueyras 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Concentrated and complex with deep, satisfying layers of blackberry liqueur. Smooth yet mouth-filling. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2015 - 2022 973453 14% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine du Vieux Lazaret Jérôme Quiot 2011, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhone A.C., France: Spicy with black fruit and cedar forest notes on this southern French red wine blend. Many layers of voluptuous, full-bodied pleasure on the palate with fleshy dark fruit flavours. Smooth with a long finish. A wonderful way to spend an evening of conversation and sipping. Pair with roast beef. Food pairings: braised beef dishes. Drink: 2012 - 2018 983650 14.5% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pierre Amadieu Romane-Machotte Gigondas 2012, Rhône A.C., France: Rich and dark with bitter black fruit and a firm tannic grip on the palate. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with prime rib or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 17400 14.5% D 750 mL $27.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Bellavista La Cuvée D'ava 2011, Côtes Du Roussillon A.P., France: Big fleshy black and purple plums with blackberry liqueur on the nose and palate of this full-bodied, smooth red wine. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 383398 14.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Duseigneur Antarès Lirac 2011, Rhône A.P., France: This robust Rhone red wine offers loads of black fruit pleasure wrapped in smoky notes. The wine was matured in cement tanks, not oak, and wasn't filtered before bottling. The yield for the vineyard is low at 30 hectoliters per hectare, which concentrated the flavours in the grapes and thus the wine. Pair with prime rib. Food pairings: hamburgers. Drink: 2014 - 2020 213082 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château La Croix Rosé 2014, Bordeaux A.C., France: Savoury, juicy and dry French rosé with lovely, oh so lovely essence of field berries and clementine zesty. Sunshine in your glass. Perfect aperitif. Gorgeous notes of dry cherry on the finish. Try with planked salmon and a sunset. Rosé food pairings: grilled chicken, stuffed peppers. Drink: 2014 - 2016 119529 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Perrin & Fils Tavel Rosé 2014, Rhône A.C., France: Soft with rose petal florals. No biting acidity here yet it's still fresh. Fleshy cherries. Lovely aperitif. Pass that bottle please. Rosé food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish, fresh fruit, veggies, pasta primavera. Drink: 2014 - 2016 680801 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Gassier Sables d'Azur Rosé 2014, Côtes De Provence A.P., France: The southern region of France, Provence, is famous for rosé. It only produces the dry style so it is refreshing and great with a wide range of dishes. Strawberry fields forever! Love it! Light, bone-dry and ultra-refreshing. Transport yourself to Provence in your mind and save the airfare. Perfect as an aperitif or with pate and picnics beside shady rivers. Refreshing French rosé in an iconic curvy bottle from Provence. Serve well chilled. Rosé food pairings: seasoned seafood, turkey breast. Drink: 2014 - 2016 33621 12.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Germany

Königschaffhauser Vulkanfelsen Trocken Winzergenossenschaft Pinot Noir Rosé 2014, Qualitätswein, Baden, Germany: The vineyards on Baden's Kaiserstuhl rest on an extinct volcano close to Switzerland and the Alsace border. Low yields lend a copper tone to this rosé which is refreshing and a great aperitif or companion to ham or grilled vegetables. Pinot Noir Rosé food pairings: turkey sandwiches, salmon burgers. Drink: 2014 - 2016 168237 12.5% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Italy

Badia A Coltibuono Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Love the old tanned leather and dried tobacco on this Italian red wine -- those mature, tertiary aromas that make a wine complex and intriguing. Balanced acidity for so many dishes from red meats to pasta in tomato sauce. Lovely. Chianti Classico food pairings: stuffed roasted turkey, cheesy pizza, roast beef, pasta with meat sauce, char-grilled sausages. Drink: 2014 - 2018 683474 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pietranera Brunello Di Montalcino 2010, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Lovely mature Brunello that has mellowed beautifully. Aromas of dark plum, dried herbs and some wild violets. Supple and easy drinking. Pair with truffle-inflected dishes. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2014 - 2018 189761 14% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Monte Faustino Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2008, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Purple plums and blueberries: sweet fleshy fruit and lots of heft. Rich robust flavours of fleshy black plums and blackberries, liqueur-like concentration, though it's a dry wine. Good dark spice and signed contracts on the finish. Pair with rare meats. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: polenta dishes, venison, beef daube, leg of lamb, pasta with tomato sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2019 327122 15.5% XD 750 mL $56.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Terra D'aligi Tolos Riserva Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2009, Abruzzo D.O.C., Italy: A full-bodied juicy robust Italian red wine with good acidity and a firm tannic grip. Aromas of fleshy black fruit. Pair with a rare steak. Decant 1-2 hours. Montepulciano D'abruzzo food pairings: hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 19166 14.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Provolo Campotorbian Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2009, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Excellent value in this robust, juicy, tasty and savoury Italian red wine. Lovely oak-bandaid that I get in Bordeaux sometimes and adore. This wine uses the Ripasso method of grapes to add depth and flavour. Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: pizza topped with steak strips and garlic, spicy sausage , prime rib roast, hearty winter stew. Drink: 2014 - 2018 974402 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Poggio Bonelli Poggiassai 2010, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Still needs lots of cellar time. Tannic yet so towering and full of potential when it all comes together. Gorgeous. Drink: 2017 - 2022 85365 14% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello di Gabbiano Riserva Chianti Classico 2011, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A robust, characterful Chianti. Full-bodied with dark fruit aromas on the palate and long finish. Pair with meat sauces. Chianti Classico food pairings: stuffed roasted turkey, cheesy pizza, roast beef, pasta with meat sauce, char-grilled sausages. Drink: 2014 - 2018 174473 14.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Villa Girardi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2011, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Classic DOC Amarone with gorgeous concentration: black cherry liqueur, smoke, bacon and dried herb aromas. Mouth-watering and complex with layers of depth and length. A towering Italian red wine to celebrate life! Pair with fine cuts of beef. Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico food pairings: aged cheese, herbed lamb stew with raisins, lasagna, venison, beef daube. Drink: 2014 - 2022 159913 15% D 750 mL $42.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Corino Dolcetto D'alba 2013, Piedmont D.O.C., Italy: Lots of acidity on this robust Italian red wine. Aromas and flavours of tart red cherries and smoke. Pair with tangy tomato sauce. Dolcetto D'alba food pairings: pork tenderloin, pasta in a rich tomato sauce. Drink: 2014 - 2017 412353 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rocca Delle Macìe Rubizzo Di Toscana Rubizzo Tosccana Igt 2013, Toscana I.G.T., Italy: Lovely juicy red fruit and lip-smacking delicious flavor on this robust Italian red wine. A happy, full-bodied wine that's great for parties. Firm grip on the palate so decant 1-2 hours. Needs a juicy rare steak. Rubizzo Tosccana Igt food pairings: roasted meats, ravioli, Caciotta cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 913780 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello Di Ama Rosato 2014, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Deep robust flavours for rose including black cherry and strawberry (if such a thing exists). Lots of acidity. Great food wine. Food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish, fresh fruit, veggies. Drink: 2014 - 2016 39800 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Le Arche Rossogrande 2012, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Very tasty, especially if you love Zinfandel or Primitivo, try this juicy, full-bodied red wine. Smooth with flavours of fleshy ripe black and purple plums and berries. Perfect for grilled meats. Food pairings: barbecued burgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 410696 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Marchesi Torrigiani Guidaccio 2008, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A full-bodied, smooth juicy Italian red wine with racy acidity for dishes with tomato sauce and tangy elements. Drink: 2014 - 2018 674499 14% XD 750 mL $48.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

New Zealand

Auntsfield Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012, Southern Valleys, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Tart cherry and some herbal notes with a medium body and a supple, smooth texture. The fruit is a little under-ripe, but the acidity is refreshing. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2013 - 2018 361246 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Saint Clair Family Estate Pinot Noir 2013, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Balanced and beautiful with luscious layers of fleshy red cherries and wild field raspberry. Nice acidity for a variety dishes. Finishes with black cherry. Pair with tomato sauce. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2014 - 2019 413591 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spy Valley Wine Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lively and zesty with mouth-watering acidity. It goes down slippery fast with terrific refreshment. There's gooseberry and lime zest on the finish. Perfect for salads and vegetarian dishes. A go-to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc that entered the market several years ago. Mouth-watering and crisp with a grassy underlay for vegetarian dishes and snappy discussions. The 2014 vintage of this Sauvignon Blanc continues to trend of increasing in price almost every year. This used to be $14.95. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Asian chicken salad, pork tenderloin, grilled radicchio, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2014 - 2017 686675 13.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coopers Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy and herbal but not overly so in this zesty, well-respected New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Finishes with lime lift and zest. Even the acids are well balanced here. I smell vegetarian quiche. I'm hungry (and thirsty). Try it with vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: fresh tomato and basil salad, quiche, ahi tuna ceviche with toasted baguette slices, chicken and sage skewers. Drink: 2014 - 2017 957407 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Portugal

Álvaro Castro Red 2011, Dão D.O.C., Portugal: Very savoury and meaty with mouth-watering acidity for food. Incredible taste and quality for the price. Stock up as a party wine. Pair with hearty meat dishes. Drink: 2014 - 2018 285288 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quinta Das Carvalhas Touriga Nacional 2011, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: Smoky with bacon and meaty notes and juicy acidity. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with prime rib and be happy. Touriga Nacional food pairings: herb roasted lamb, beef, venison, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 408112 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mula Velha Premium Tinto 2012, Vinho Regional Lisboa, Portugal: Pleasant, full-bodied Portuguese red wine blend of Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Alicante Bouschet grapes. Decant 1 hour and enjoy with meat lovers' pizza. Tinto food pairings: barbecued chicken, hamburgers. Drink: 2013 - 2017 409250 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

South Africa

Boschendal 1685 S & M Shiraz Mourvèdre 2013, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: A robust, rustic red wine blend of Shiraz and Mourvèdre grapes. Cedary and smoky. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2014 - 2017 403667 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rustenberg Merlot 2010, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Savoury and meaty with mouth-watering acidity that's perfect for roast beef and brisket. Fleshy black plums and blackberry. Absolutely delicious! Merlot food pairings: grilled pork chops, rack of BBQ ribs, lentil dishes, veal Porterhouse, borsch. Drink: 2013 - 2017 404194 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Oldenburg Chardonnay 2012, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Classic butterscotch and green apple and white peach. Lovely, full-bodied and balanced. Serve with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled fish, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli with Alfredo sauce, Asian dishes with black bean sauces. Drink: 2014 - 2018 374645 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2014, Coastal Region W.O., South Africa: Lovely cherry-berry rounded and juicy mouth-watering acidity. No Cabernet tannins: the grape base just lends lovely red fruit flavour. Excellent price. Yahoo. Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé food pairings: lox and capers, grilled salmon steak, shellfish, fresh fruit, veggies, pasta primavera. Drink: 2014 - 2016 999821 12.5% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Spain

G Garnacha 2011, Vinos De Madrid D.O., Spain: Great purple plum juiciness and some tannic grip. decant 2 hours and grilled the meats baby. These vines were planted in 1893 in granite soil 870 metres above sea level. Imagine how many barbecues they've seen. Garnacha food pairings: braised beef dishes, turkey, soft cheese, roasted pork, lamb. Drink: 2014 - 2018 132266 15% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United States

Migration Duckhorn Vineyards Pinot Noir 2013, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Good acidity and vibrant tart and ripe red and dark cherries. Supple, smooth and satin on the palate. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2014 - 2019 412437 14.5% XD 750 mL $49.25 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Zynthesis Old Vine Zinfandel 2013, Lodi, California, United States: The Vintages Catalogue says 2011 but we tasted the 2013 vintage. Vibrant, juicy, fleshy ripe purple plums and blueberry jam on the nose and palate of this full-bodied, smooth Californian red wine. The grapes grow on old vines that are weathered and head pruned in the Lodi region. Finishes with boysenberry flavours. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled duck breast, spaghetti Bolognaise, aged cheddar, grilled lamb loin. Drink: 2013 - 2017 412510 14% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jekel Pinot Noir 2012, Monterey, California, United States: Lovely cherry berry ripeness on the nose yet perfectly balanced with racy acidity on the palate. Monterey makes spectacular Pinot Noir at great prices, like this one. Pair with pasta primavera. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2014 - 2018 27268 14.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Napa Valley, California, United States: Campfire smoke and savoury meaty notes on the nose and palate of this delicious Californian red wine. Black fruit and smoke with a chary finish. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2019 73817 13.5% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Chalk Hill Chardonnay 2012, Chalk Hill, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Baked bread and toasted almond on the nose of this Californian Chardonnay. Lovely green apple and white peach on the palate. Full-bodied and generous. A lovely golden hue in the glass. Finishes with vanilla smoke, toasted almond and dried herbs. Pair with four-cheese pizza. Chardonnay food pairings: pulled pork, grilled lobster tail. Drink: 2012 - 2017 706580 14.5% D 750 mL $67.00 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Crema Chardonnay 2013, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Sonoma Coast vineyards enjoy a long, cool growing season due to the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean, and its fogs and winds that blow inland. This is perfect for slowly ripening grapes to develop complex flavours and nuances without lots of sugar that translates to heavy alcohol. Classic Californian Chardonnay with toast, oak and green apple on the nose. Full-bodied, and generously layered. Generous flavours of pear and peach on the palate with a long, dry finish and a hint of wild white flowers in a spring rain. Perfect for roast chicken or mild curries. Chardonnay food pairings: pasta, hodge podge, lobster with mayonnaise, roasted chicken, pork with a creamy lemon sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2018 962886 13.9% D 750 mL $34.95 Score: 91/100. May 2015. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Columbia Crest Winery Grand Estates Chardonnay 2012, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: Weird and interesting with aromas of Meyer lemon and butterscotch. Smooth and full-bodied. Chardonnay food pairings: grilled fish, spinach and pepper jack stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon, toasted ravioli with Alfredo sauce, Asian dishes with black bean sauces. Drink: 2013 - 2017 462846 13.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Argyle Artisan Series Reserve Pinot Noir 2012, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Dark cherry and cedar smoke on the nose of this fairly robust Oregonian Pinot Noir. Lots of mouth-watering acidity. Pair with seared salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2013 - 2017 70623 13.5% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cloudline Pinot Gris 2013, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United States: Dry and crisp Oregon white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes, with attractive aromas of white melon and lime. Highly recommended. Perfect as an aperitif or companion to many seafood dishes. Pinot Gris food pairings: pork tenderloin, roast turkey , seafood, pasta with cream sauce. Drink: 2013 - 2017 159988 13% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Seven Falls Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Wahluke Slope, Washington, United States: This is a terrific Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon, especially for the price point! Mocha and dark chocolate aromas with black fruit. Chalky dry and full-bodied. Some black plum and berries on the finish. Great balance, with a deep red-garnet colour. Finishes with vanilla smoke. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hamburgers, steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 360222 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Inglenook 1882 Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United States: Tannic with tart black fruit and loaded with toasty oak. Big, black and brooding. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2014 - 2018 412502 14.5% D 750 mL $77.95 Score: 88/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stonestreet Legacy 2010, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Full-bodied and supple with pleasant notes of purple plums and smoke. Generously oaked. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2014 - 2018 708024 14.5% XD 750 mL $99.95 Score: 87/100. May 2015. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Pinot Noir 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Rounded, mouth-filling and voluptuous Pinot Noir like falling backwards on to satin cushions. Fleshy cherry aromas and flavours. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, prime rib, coq au vin, grilled tuna with a pepper crust. Drink: 2014 - 2018 91025 14.5% D 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. May 2015. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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