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Vintages Release March 31, 2018

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Dessert Wine

Château des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Riesling Icewine 2014, St. David's Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Very unctuous and viscous on the palate. Gorgeous concentration with peach-marmalade preserves and a honeyed apricot finish. Lovely as dessert on its own or with biscotti or fruit- or nut-based desserts. Riesling Icewine food pairings: banana split, spice cake, crème brûlée, fruit-based desserts. Drink: 2017 - 2020 413724 9% S 375 mL $66.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

United Stars Kindzmarauli 2016, Kakheti, Georgia: As long as you're prepared for the sweetness uncommonly associated with a red wine, you'll enjoy it. It's savoury and tasty and ripe red berry fruit. Great for meaty dishes with a touch of sweetness to them or a glaze. This Georgian late-harvest wine is made from the country's indigenous Saperavi grape, whose name means "paint dye" due to its naturally dark colour. The "Kindzmarauli" designation means this wine is of high quality and is a naturally semi-sweet. Food pairings: sweet and warm curry dishes, spicy dark chocolate, chocolate covered ginger. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13961 12.5% MS 750 mL $17.95 Score: 85/100. March 2018. Best Value Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Featherstone Select Late Harvest Gewürztraminer 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely dessert wine with aromas of baking spice, lychee and lilies. This is a late harvest wine, not an icewine (Featherstone doesn't produce icewine) and so it has attractive sweetness but is not cloying. Pair with gingerbread men (and women). Gewürztraminer food pairings: mild curries, pad Thai, sushi, sashimi. Drink: 2018 - 2023 519033 12.4% S 375 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Pirramimma Katunga Grenache Tannat Shiraz 2014, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Juicy and vibrant with black and purple liqueur aromas and flavours. Full-bodied and ultra-smooth. Deeply concentrated and rich with layered complexity through the palate. Lots of toasty, smoky oak that's in balance with the luscious fruit. This wine cries out for hearty meat dishes, and for you to top up your glass. Stunning complexity, depth and finish in this towering Australian red wine. Grenache Tannat Shiraz food pairings: roast beef, bison burgers, roast rack of lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 203174 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Luis Felipe Edwards Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Full-bodied Chilean Cabernet at a great price! Offers seductive tarry blackcurrant and cassis aromas and flavours on the nose and palate. Finishes with blackcurrant and cedar brush. Pair with a juicy, rare steak or pepperoni pizza. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: juicy, rare steak, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2023 169847 14% D 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mazzei Fonterutoli Chianti Classico 2015, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Full-bodied and juicy Chianti Classico with rich aromas and flavours of black cherry, blackberry, smoke and just enough oak. Nicely balanced with a satisfying finish. Supple and smooth, and finishing nicely with oak spice and black fruits. The Mazzei family has been producing wine since 1435. Chianti Classico food pairings: beef roast, grilled T-bone steak, hard Italian cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2033 142389 13.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Don Cristóbal 1492 Bonarda 2016, Ugarteche, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina: Juicy, full-bodied and simple but you can't beat the price. Pair with hearty meat dishes and meat lovers pizza. Bonarda food pairings: turkey tetrazzini, tagliatelle alla Bolognese (pasta), roasted veal. Drink: 2018 - 2022 261941 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Coyote's Run Pinot Noir 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Seductive black cherry on the nose and liquid velvet on the palate. Great vintage. Juicy and tart Niagara Pinot Noir with delicious aromas and flavours of ripe berries with racy acidity. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: blackened beef and a side of braised Ontario beets, lamburgers, mushroom and onion risotto. Drink: 2018 - 2022 53090 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Clairmont Classique 2015, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône A.C., France: A dark and robust southern French red wine from the Rhone Valley's Croze-Hermitage region. Aromas of purple and black plums with blueberries on the finish. Smooth and supple. Pair with grilled lamb. Food pairings: rare rib steak, roast leg of lamb, roast stuffed breast of veal. Drink: 2018 - 2022 537811 13.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quintarelli Primofiore 2014, Veneto I.G.T., Italy: Superb craftsmanship in this benchmark Italian red wine. Complex and layered with aromas of cigar box, dark spice and earth. Mature beyond its years in a great way -- this wine is already rewarding us with tertiary aromas that we usually have to wait for many more years to develop: tanned leather, tobacco leaves and violets. Pair with juicy rack of lamb. Food pairings: rack of lamb, stuffed breast of veal, vegetarian lasagna. Drink: 2018 - 2025 20867 14% D 750 mL $74.95 Score: 96/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Paul Jaboulet Aine Plan De Dieu 2015, Côtes Du Rhone, Rhône A.C., France: A rich, savoury, full-bodied southern French red wine blend of old vine Grenache, Syrah and Mouvedre grapes from the Cotes du Rhone Villages. This vineyard is planted on pebbly terraces between the villages of Cairanne and Gigondas, and benefits from the drying effect of the Mistral wind. Aromas of dark berries, dried fig and smoke. Pair with game dishes and grilled lamb with rosemary. Food pairings: beef bourguignon, roast beef, roast chicken, game dishes. Drink: 2018 - 2021 526731 14.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Paul Mas Clos Des Mûres 2015, Côteaux Du Languedoc, Midi A.C., France: Dark, smoky and full-bodied with savoury, meaty black fruit. Terrific price for this quality of wine. Great for meat dishes. Elegant dinner party wine. Food pairings: prime rib roast, grilled pork tenderloin, lamburgers, roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2023 286393 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jacob's Creek Double Barrel Shiraz 2015, South Australia, Australia: This is the fourth vintage for this wine, as indicated by the back label, though there is no vintage printed on the label front or back. Dense, rich and concentrated Australian Shiraz. This wine was matured in French and American oak barrels for 15 months, then for another 3-6 months in old Scotch whisky barrels. This adds a sweet caramelized note to the wine. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2017 - 2020 419986 14% MD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Angove Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2017, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, intense GSM (Grenache, Shiraz, Mouvedre) red wine blend. Rich and smooth on the palate with ripe blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate, savoury herb and nutty flavours. Tannins are velvety. Enjoy now and for the next three years. Wine grapes are hand-picked and fermented separately and then blended prior to bottling. Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre food pairings: rare rib steak, roast leg of lamb, roast stuffed breast of veal. Drink: 2018 - 2026 534750 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rioja Vega Rioja Crianza 2014, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A full-bodied, supple Rioja with balanced acidity and tanned leather notes. Very savoury. Made from the Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes. Perfect for lamb or sausage. Crianza food pairings: bison burgers, venison stew, stuffed venison flank. Drink: 2018 - 2024 471854 13.5% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Robert Oatley Signature Series Shiraz 2015, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, mocha-rich Australian red wine with coffee, espresso and vanilla smoke from toasty oak aging. Lots of layers and pleasure. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz food pairings: rare rib steak, roast leg of lamb, roast stuffed breast of veal. Drink: 2018 - 2024 327387 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frei Brothers Winery Reserve Zinfandel 2015, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: The 2015 vintage is a blend of 96% Zinfandel and 4% Petite Sirah. The wine was matured in both French and American oak barrels. A robust Californian red wine with delicious aromas and flavors of fleshy ripe purple and black plums with spicy wild red berries on the finish. Smooth and supple. The fruit profile is not as raisined as it is in some Californian Zinfandels. This is a juicy, pleasing red wine. Perfect for potluck gatherings featuring grilled meats. Zinfandel food pairings: pizza, pulled pork served with crackling pigskin. Drink: 2018 - 2022 281758 14.5% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hedges Family Estate Red 2005, Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, Washington, United States: This Washington red is savoury, full-bodied and has a firm grip. The 2005 vintage is a robust blend of 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 61% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc. It was aged for 11 months in French, American and Hungarian oak barrels. Aromas of cedar brush, black currant and smoke. Finishes with vanilla spice and cedar brush. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with a rare steak. Red food pairings: lamburgers, gourmet burgers, bobotje. Drink: 2018 - 2022 1594 13.3% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Terra Noble Gran Reserva Carignan 2015, Maule Valley, Chile: Savoury, dark, deep and delicious! This full-bodied Chilean red wine is made from the Carignan grape, lesser known than Cabernet and Merlot. The vines are planted in the coastal range of the Maule Valley. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberries and dark plums. Pair with roast beef or brisket. Carignan food pairings: grilled pork chops, pepper steak, duck, grilled lamb, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2021 542118 14% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Angove Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2016, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: This is a robust, spicy blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mouvedre grapes -- the classic GSM blend. The grapes are picked and fermented separately, then blended before bottling. Polished tannins. Pair with prime rib. Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre food pairings: rare rib steak, roast leg of lamb, roast stuffed breast of veal. Drink: 2018 - 2026 534750 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Poggio Sant'enrico Nobile Di Montepulciano 2007, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This is staggeringly great in every dimension: depth, concentration, complexity, finish. Aromas of blackberries, tar, toasty oak, smoke and dried tobacco leaves. Made from the Sangiovese grape, the 2007 vintage of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Vigneto Poggio Sant'Enrico is a wine to enjoy now or in the future. decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Nobile Di Montepulciano food pairings: vegetarian lasagne, pasta with rich sun-dried tomato sauce, cheesy pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2028 998211 14% XD 750 mL $62.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Parcelas 2014, Douro D.O.C., Portugal: A pleasant, robust Portuguese red wine from the Douro Valley. Not overly aromatic, with some black dried fruit and oak on the nose. This wine is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Sousao grapes grown on vines planted in shale soils in the demarcated region of the Douro. The wine is aged for 9 months in French oak barriques. Pair with hamburgers. Food pairings: gourmet hamburgers, meat lover's pizza, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2018 - 2021 397422 14% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Ravenswood Dickerson Zinfandel 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: Since starting the Ravenswood winery in Sonoma County in 1976, Joel Peterson has amassed enormous critical acclaim, a dedicated cult following and has even been nicknamed the Grandfather of Zinfandel. Ravenswood's Dickerson Single Vineyard is planted close to eucalyptus trees and the oil from the trees blows off and coats the grapes lightly imparting a light hint of mint. The 100% Zin is fresh, red berries and cherries, and the wine is aged in Navarre French oak barrels for over 10 months, 30% new barrels. The barrels are made from oak primarily from the Navarre forest in France, and they are seasoned outside where the weather impacts their final flavour profile and brings out their natural wood-grain tannins. Joel Peterson says that "airoir" affects the taste of this wine and uses hand/manual punch down to extract more flavour. This wine displays dazzling aromas of ripe red berries and other fruits. Zinfandel food pairings: roast pork shoulder with cranberry Zinfandel wine sauce, roast chicken, red berry compote over baked brie. Drink: 2018 - 2021 599183 14.8% XD 750 mL $46.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Messer Del Fauno Nero D'avola 2016, Sicily I.G.T., Italy: A juicy, tasty, well-priced southern Italian red wine from the island of Sicily. Made from the island's classic grape Nero d'Avola, it offers so much flavour and character: fleshy ripe black plums and blackberries with some smoke. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Nero D'avola food pairings: vegetarian lasagne, pasta with rich sun-dried tomato sauce, cheesy pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2022 538132 13% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Banfi Rosso Di Montalcino 2015, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: Very dry with mostly earth and smoke... Not a lot of fruit here yet it's not thin. Good acidity for food such as tomato sauce and pasta. Rosso Di Montalcino food pairings: wine-braised beef, turkey with gravy, chorizo tacos, bean fajitas. Drink: 2018 - 2022 681262 14% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Jacob's Creek Reserve Shiraz 2016, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: A full-bodied, smoky, generous Shiraz with aromas of fleshy black plums and blackberries. The Limestone Coast is a cool climate region in Australia, which preserves the zesty and juiciness of the wines without over-ripening. Pair with prime rib. Drink: 2018 - 2021 665471 14.1% D 750 mL $17.45 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

San Marzano Vindoro Negroamaro 2014, Salento, Puglia I.G.P., Italy: This superb Italian red wine offers gorgeous black fruit aromas that slip up and out of the glass in between violet notes. Plush and luxurious with full-bodied goodness. Although it’s big, it’s still in balance. Wow. Pair with roast beef. Negroamaro food pairings: chicken salad, pork tenderloin, sugar snap pea soup, hodge-podge, avocado and papaya salad. Drink: 2018 - 2024 473181 14.9% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château St. Georges 2014, Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux A.C., France: Complex and rich with layers of dark red fruit and smoke. Pair with rare steak. Food pairings: rich beef dish, lamb dishes, roast pork. Drink: 2018 - 2023 960310 12.5% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa Valley, California, United States: A bone-dry, robust Californian red wine that's mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with a splash of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot grapes sourced from Napa Valley vineyards. Dusty tannins with a chalky mouth-feel. This winery, owned by the Sclatter family, has been producing wine since 1983. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled prime rib steak, roast chicken, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2025 470682 14.6% XD 750 mL $126.00 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Duckhorn Wine Company Decoy Merlot 2015, Sonoma County, California, United States: This is a succulent Merlot from Duckhorn Winery. Toasted oak on the nose of this attractive, full-bodied Californian Merlot that's been aged in oak. Black plums and sweet mocha on the finish. Merlot food pairings: borsch (beet soup), quesadillas, Tandoori-flavored dishes, lentil dishes. Drink: 2018 - 2023 460642 13.9% XD 750 mL $35.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Woodside Park Pinot Noir 2016, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Menthol and mint on the nose of this full-bodied, smooth Australian red wine made from the classic Pinot Noir grape in the cool climate of the Adelaide Hills region. On the palate sour cherry and cranberry. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: rack of lamb, rib eye steak, pork crown roast. Drink: 2018 - 2022 478289 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Alejandro Fernández Dehesa La Granja Tempranillo 2008, Vino De La Tierra De Castilla Y León, Spain: Smoky with dark fruit, toasty oak and dark chocolate aromas on the nose of this terrific Spanish red wine made from the country's classic Tempranillo grape. The winemaker is Alexandro Fernández of Pesquera renown. Full-bodied, smooth and brooding. Great for watching film noir as well as with hearty meat dishes. Tempranillo food pairings: herbed steaks, chili, Papas con chorizo, lamb chops, smoked cheese, pan-seared venison.. Drink: 2015 - 2018 192476 14.3% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Monte Zovo Cottini Amarone Della Valpolicella 2011, Veneto, Italy: An impressively rich and deeply concentrated Italian red wine with aromas of black cherry liquor and smoke. Pair with roast beef. Amarone Della Valpolicella food pairings: pasta with rich tomato sauce and wild mushrooms, vegetarian lasagne, chicken parmesan. Drink: 2018 - 2020 447888 15% D 750 mL $45.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Francis Ford Coppola Director's Cut Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A well-made robust red with black fruit and mocha notes. Yes, this is from the producer of The Godfather and other box office hits. The winery is well worth a visit when you're in Napa next time. Pair with goulash and the movie Dracula. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pork tenderloin, spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, roast lamb, game meats, slow-roasted beef. Drink: 2016 - 2020 61002 14.5% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lake Sonoma Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A spectacular Californian Cabernet that tastes like a cult classic but without the price tag. Aromas of fleshy black plum, blackberry and cigar box. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Highly recommended. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: grilled bison strip steaks, spice-braised lamb, stuffed pork chops. Drink: 2017 - 2022 380188 14.8% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Papale Linea Oro Primitivo di Manduria 2014, Puglia D.O.P., Italy: Sweet black plums on the nose and palate of this supple, robust wine. This turbo-charged red wine is made from Primitivo grapes, aka Zinfandel. The fruit is blackened and charred with lots and lots of toasty oak. Finishes with mocha and oak. Great with BBQ or grilled meats. Primitivo Di Manduria food pairings: three-sausage pizza, charcuterie, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2017 - 2022 261784 14.5% D 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2015, Sonoma Coast, California, United States: Fleshy cherry and dark spice with a long, naughty finish on this California Pinot Noir. Medium-bodied and satin smooth like lingerie. A supple red wine with cherry-berry mouth-filling wonder and flavours. Just enough oak for hedonists. Layered yet not heavy. This pinot has been one of my favourites for years. Satin seduction in a glass. Pair with roasted turkey or chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: veal medallions, roasted pork loin, roasted and braised lamb, chicken stuffed with asparagus and goat cheese, venison burgers. Drink: 2018 - 2022 719435 13.9% D 750 mL $39.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Sonoma County, California, United States: A robust and stately Cabernet Sauvignon with attractive aromas of blackberry, cedar brush, blackcurrant, cassis and vanilla oak on the nose of this classic Californian red wine, with a full-bodied weight on the palate. Firm tannins. Balanced cool-climate Californian Cabernet. Nicely integrated oak. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a pepper steak or gourmet hamburgers. Finishes with notes of cocoa and wood spice. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: pulled pork, burgers, hard cheese, grilled rare steak, smoked beef ribs. Drink: 2017 - 2021 226944 13.5% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Antinori Pian Delle Vigne Brunello Di Montalcino 2012, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Tanned leather, cigar box and dried tobacco: lovely tertiary aromas of a mature wine that has bouquet not just aroma. I would drink now (because I'm a hedonist) but I suppose you could wait. But why really. Brunello Di Montalcino food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal piccata. Drink: 2017 - 2022 651141 14% D 750 mL $81.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Balbás Reserva 2005, Ribera Del Duero D.O.C., Spain: Lots of acidity and a firm tannic grip even though this is a 2005. This full-bodied Spanish red wine has a good grip on the palate it offers more earthy, smoky, dusty aromas and flavours than fruit-forward ones. Complex, elegant and mature. Dry and subtle, with tanned leather and cigar box and made mostly from the traditional Tempranillo grape with some Cabernet. This Spanish DO wine finishes with dry tobacco and cedar. Decant for 2 hours and pair with lamb and rosemary. Terrific! Food pairings: rack of lamb, rib eye steak, pork crown roast. Drink: 2018 - 2022 85183 14% XD 750 mL $43.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rodney Strong Reserve Pinot Noir 2014, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: A gorgeously aromatic red with heavy bouquet of violets, ripe cherries, raspberries and a wisp of smoke. Medium- to full-bodied with a silky, seductive texture. Pinot Noir food pairings: beef bourguignon, roast beef, fried chicken, game dishes. Drink: 2018 - 2022 677690 14% D 750 mL $59.95 Score: 94/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Antinori Badia a Passignano Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2014, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: A towering, huge Tuscan red wine from the Chianti Classico region. The grapes are estate grown on one of the oldest growing areas in the Chianti district. The wine is aged in small oak barrels for at least 14 months before being bottled. Aromas of earth, tart dark cherry and smoke. Pair with tangy tomato sauce dishes. Chianti Classico food pairings: Margherita pizza, vegetarian lasagna, cannelloni with three cheeses. Drink: 2018 - 2028 384552 13.5% XD 750 mL $74.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2016, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A solid effort from the 2016 vintage with concentrated, dark intense flavours. Supple with rich layering. Aromas of savoury cedar and fleshy purple and black plums. Like Zinfandel but more savoury. Full-bodied and smooth. Pair with BBQ meats. Food pairings: leg of lamb, cheese, venison stew, hearty lasagne. Drink: 2018 - 2022 674564 14.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Borsao Bole 2014, Campo De Borja, Yecla D.O., Spain: This full-bodied southern French red wine is a blend of Grenache and Syrah, grapes that thrive in the warm, dry conditions of the Campo de Borja region. The Grenache vines are 15-30 years old and the Syrah vines are 10 years of age. Lots of fleshy black fruit and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Food pairings: grilled farmer's style pork chops, slow-cooked pork ribs, crown pork roast. Drink: 2018 - 2022 471565 14.5% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Palacio del Burgo Reserva 2010, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Savoury and juicy with aromas of dust, dark fruit and smoke. Full-bodied and fairly supple. Made from the Tempranillo grape. Pair with grilled lamb. Food pairings: grilled steak, roast leg of lamb, hard cheese, veal Porterhouse. Drink: 2018 - 2024 480038 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Verdignan 2005, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux A.C., France: A complex, flavourful Bordeaux red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Dark tint in the glass. Polished tannins with a long finish. Packed with full-bodied flavor. Layers of cassis and black plums. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: bison burgers, venison stew, stuffed venison flank. Drink: 2018 - 2021 527101 13% XD 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Buena Vista The Sheriff 2015, Sonoma County, California, United States: A gorgeous, balanced and elegant Californian red wine blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache grapes. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plums and blackberry. The Buena Vista was established in 1857 as California's first premium wine producing winery. The name The Sheriff is a nod to winery founder Sheriff Agoston Haraszthy, one of California's first sheriffs elected in 1850 in San Diego County and built the first jail. Pair with a rare steak. Food pairings: grilled prime rib steak, roast chicken, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2022 539114 14.5% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 93/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tedeschi Capitel San Rocco Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2015, Veneto D.O.C., Italy: Juicy black and purple plum aromas along with fleshy blackberry and blueberry notes on this luscious palate. Full-bodied, smooth and mouth-watering. Not tannic. Reminds me (almost) of a juicy Californian zinfandel. Pair with grilled meats and happiness. Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore food pairings: pizza topped with steak strips and garlic, spicy sausage, prime rib roast, hearty winter stew. Drink: 2018 - 2023 719294 14.5% D 750 mL $22.25 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château Peyros Tannat Cabernet Franc 2012, Madiran, Southwest A.C., France: Tanned leather and black fruit with a good grip on this full-bodied red wine. Great price. Perfect for hearty meat dishes. The quality designation for this wine is AC. This is a robust southern French red wine blend of 60% Tannat and 40% Cabernet grapes, both offering lots of tannic grip on the palate. Aromas of black raspberry, liquorice and clove-spice. Tannat Cabernet Franc food pairings: rare grilled meats, game dishes, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2018 - 2022 208249 13.5% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Castello di monsanto Monrosso 2015, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: A terrific, juicy, robust Italian red wine blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese grapes from Tuscany. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberries and black plums with some smoke. Perfect for roast beef. Food pairings: cheesy pizza, vegetarian lasagna, meat cannelloni. Drink: 2018 - 2025 541029 13.5% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Poggio Verrano Dròmos 2009, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: What a beautiful and artistic expression of the Maremma region in the heart of Tuscany! This red wine blend is extraordinary on length, depth, complexity and flavour. This will do well in the cellar, but it's also drinking nicely now. I know that I can't wait ;) Pair with hearty meat dishes and sauces. Food pairings: bucatini with peas, roast beef, pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2028 107383 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 94/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Il feuduccio Fonte Venna Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2014, Abruzzo D.O.C., Italy: A juicy, savoury, full-bodied Italian red wine with gorgeous aromas and flavours of spicy wild red berries and smoke. This Montepulciano d'Abruzzo offers so much pleasure in the glass. Winery owners Gaetano and Maria Lamaletto observe ancient farming traditions in Abruzzo. Pair with meat lovers' pizza. Montepulciano D'abruzzo food pairings: rare grilled meats, game dishes, sausage cassoulet. Drink: 2018 - 2022 541474 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Ninot 2015, Mercurey, Burgundy A.C., France: A juicy, mouth-watering Old World Burgundian Pinot Noir from the district of Mercurey. Aromas of sour cherry, earth and smoke. Lively, medium-bodied and balanced with a long finish. Very elegant. Pair with veal or roast chicken. Food pairings: grilled pork chops, pepper steak, duck, grilled lamb, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 534388 13% XD 750 mL $38.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Olarra Erudito Reserva Especial 2009, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Dense, deep, concentrated and mouth-watering complexity in the glass here. A wine to sip, savour and yes even analyze if you are so inclined (or reclined). Aromas of black fruit, smoke, dark spice, violets and mystery. Wow. Food pairings: leg of lamb, cheese, venison stew, hearty lasagne. Drink: 2018 - 2022 378885 14% XD 750 mL $44.95 Score: 95/100. March 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosés

Carpineto Dogajolo Rosato 2016, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: This robust Italian rosé is made with Sangiovese and Canaiolo, the signature grapes of Chianti. The vines are dry-farmed, which adds extra depth and nuance to this refreshing rosé with lots of acidity. Terrific notes of wild strawberry and field flowers on the finish. Dry and crisp and medium-bodied. Great aperitif or sunset sipper. Dry, refreshing finish. Enticing floral aromas on the nose of this medium-bodied to robust rosé that pairs well with grilled seafood and veal. Rosato food pairings: pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, tapas featuring marinated olives and chorizo, a charcuterie platter, salmon burgers. Drink: 2017 - 2018 699934 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Sparkling Wine

Krone Twee Jonge Gezellen Estate Sparkling Rosé 2016, Tulbagh, South Africa W.O., South Africa: Distinctive raspberry candy drops notes on the nose and palate. Nice price, and very festive. This wine is riddled, just as they do in Champagne (rémuage) with the bottles turned by hand periodically so that the lees (sediment) gently and slowly collect in the neck. Pair with potato chips and oysters. Sparkling Rosé food pairings: grilled salmon, seafood bites, spring greens salad. Drink: 2015 - 2020 130047 11.5% D 750 mL $23.95 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Best Value Sparkling Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Whitehaven Greg Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Grassy, herbal and refreshing like a piercing shaft of sunlight on a rainy day. Perfect for spinach quiche. Medium-bodied with lots of acidity. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: vegetable stir-fry, mild green curry. Drink: 2015 - 2018 325944 13% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Vineyards Wildass Riesling 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This lovely, light-bodied white wine offers enticing peach and melon notes, with just enough mouth-watering action for a wide range of dishes. Great balance, nice price. Riesling food pairings: light vegetarian curries, sautéed Thai prawns, smoked salmon roll on crackers. Drink: 2016 - 2019 129700 11% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Roche De Bellene Les Charrons 2009, Meursault, Burgundy A.C., France: A full-bodied, rich, round Old World Burgundian Chardonnay that was aged in French oak barrels, of which 40% was new. Aromas of toasty oak, toasted almond, Asian pear. The vines were planted in 1981 at a density of 10,000 feet/ha with a north-east exposure in clay and limestone soils. The wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Food pairings: roast chicken, buttered lobster rolls, roast duck. Drink: 2018 - 2025 541235 13.5% XD 750 mL $82.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Selbach Incline Riesling 2016, Mosel Qualitätswein, Germany: A crisp, mouth-watering German Riesling with lots of juicy acidity for seafood. Off-dry with attractive aromas of melon and pear. Medium-bodied. Also a nice chilled aperitif. Riesling food pairings: mild curries, pad Thai, sushi, sashimi. Drink: 2018 - 2021 523928 11.5% MD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

St. Urbans-Hof Old Vines Riesling 2016, Mosel Qualitätswein, Germany: Off-dry with lovely peach and pear ripeness. Perfect for glazed ham or sweet potatoes. Riesling food pairings: sushi, grilled salmon, grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2023 995746 9.5% MD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Mallory & Benjamin Talmard 2016, Mâcon-Uchizy, Burgundy A.C., France: Old World Chardonnay with a touch of oak but not much. Nice price. Green apple goodness. Harvested from the southern end of Burgundy. The Talmard name is recorded in viticultural documents going all the way back to the seventeenth century. Finishes with a citrus lift and bright orchard fruit. Pair with Dover sole. Food pairings: stuffed roast chicken, linguini with clams and fennel, grilled fish, lobster in butter sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2021 733956 13% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viu Manent Secreto Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Casablanca Valley, Chile: Aromas of lemon zest, nettle, freshly cut grass and chives on the nose and palate of this medium-bodied Chilean white wine made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. The vines grow in the cool climate of the Casablanca Valley. Lots of racy acidity for seafood and shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: crab cakes with garlic aioli, sushi, salads. Drink: 2017 - 2019 540823 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Lake Sonoma Chardonnay 2014, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Lots of butterscotch and caramel on the nose and palate from generous oak ageing. Rich and full-bodied. Made from Chardonnay grapes grown in the cool climate of Sonoma's Russian River Valley. Chardonnay food pairings: fried chicken, roast duck, Hawaiian pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2022 541557 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Feudo Maccari Grillo 2016, Sicily I.G.P., Italy: A simple, aromatic, floral Italian white wine made from the Grillo grape. Pair with mild curries. Grillo food pairings: chicken salad sandwiches, spring green salad, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2020 477877 12.5% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Howard Park Flint Rock Chardonnay 2016, Mount Barker, Great Southern, Western Australia, Australia: Oaky and toasty on the nose but I love it! Like admitting you adore vanilla ice cream but what the heck. Voluptuous and rich and enveloping of your senses in an extremely comforting way. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes, pork tenderloin, cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 410027 13% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. Such terrific balance and finesse, year after year. Love that hazelnut smoke on the nose followed by Asian pear. This Niagara Chardonnay is made by a master, Thomas Bachelder. Full-bodied yet balanced with a long finish. Pair with roast chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: tuna steaks, swordfish, turkey dinner, beef, chicken breast. Drink: 2018 - 2021 302083 12.5% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Château De La Gravelle Muscadet 2015, Sèvre Et Maine, Loire A.C., France: A crisp, dry, refreshing French white wine from the commune of Gorges. Aromas of lime and grapefruit. Pair with fresh seafood. Muscadet food pairings: steamed mussels in their own juice, fresh steamed shellfish, crab cakes. Drink: 2018 - 2021 527192 12% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 88/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis 2016, Burgundy A.C., France: An approachable unoaked Chardonnay from the northern Burgundian region of Chablis. Aromas of green apple and grapefruit. Pair with fresh seafood. Chablis food pairings: crab cakes, pan fried seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2020 124305 12.5% D 750 mL $29.75 Score: 87/100. March 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Pierre Sparr Altenbourg Riesling 2015, Alsace A.C., France: Beautiful lemon sharp intensity on the nose and palate of this superbly well-made Alsatian Riesling. Medium-bodied and mouth-watering with racy acidity perfect for seafood and fresh shellfish. Lots of minerality, intensity and balance. Well-priced. Riesling food pairings: feta cheese, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate, butternut squash risotto. Drink: 2018 - 2021 906016 12% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 91/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Frescobaldi Castello Di Pomino Bianco 2016, Tuscany D.O.C., Italy: Crisp and fresh Italian white wine that's slightly off-dry creating a lovely savoury note. This is made from mostly Chardonnay grapes and a touch of Pinot Bianco so it has a longer life than 100% Pinot Bianco. Notes of golden apple and lime. Pair with fresh seafood. Food pairings: lobster in butter sauce, garden salad, grilled seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2021 65086 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kistler Mccrea Vineyard Chardonnay 2015, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma County, 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 2015 vintage was bottled unfiltered and unfined and therefore may leave a natural sediment in the bottle. Pair with quail or Cornish hen. Chardonnay food pairings: lobster with melted butter, barbecued pork, roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2023 353706 14.1% XD 750 mL $119.95 Score: 94/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States: Fresh, crisp and balanced Californian white wine made from the classic Sauvignon Blanc. Aromas of lemon zest, chives and smoke. Perfect for seafood, shellfish and vegetarian dishes. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken breast, Tuna Nicoise, green salad topped with warm goat cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2020 932715 13.5% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huntaway Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lots of freshly cut grass and herbal aromas on the nose and palate of this vibrant and refreshing New Zealand white wine made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Lots of racy acidity for seafood and shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: tuna steaks, swordfish, grilled whitefish. Drink: 2017 - 2019 536276 13% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Viña Cobos Felino Chardonnay 2016, Mendoza, Argentina: Grapes are grown in the Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo appellation of the Mendoza wine region. Golden-yellow highlights in the glass. Just 20% of the fermenting juice gets oak contact. Great balance and elegance in this Argentine Chardonnay, with pleasant green apple and toasted almond finish. Full-bodied and luscious. This winery is co-owned by the esteemed California producer Paul Hobbs, Andrea Marchiori and Luis Barraud. Pair with crab cakes. Chardonnay food pairings: crab cakes with lemon sauce, seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2020 191915 14.5% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. March 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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