Alamos The Wines Of Catena Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina: For Argentina’s signature grape, Catena’s Alamos Malbec is always a fine ambassador. A rich, full-bodied wine with concentrated fruit flavours of raspberry and cassis with doses of chocolate and sweet spice from the light oak ageing. A pleasant sipper with lovely blackberry aromas. Medium- to full-bodied and smooth. A solidly made wine with terrific balance. Ripe blackberries and pepper. Perfect for barbecue and movie night. 467951 13.50% D 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 88/100. January 21, 2012 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Château Saint Maurice Les Grès Laudun Christophe Valat, Vign. 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Laudun’s best vineyards tend to be north-facing and grown on sandy clay. Interesting aromas include pomegranate and black licorice, plus the usual scents of plum, raspberry and pepper-spice. Dry, and due to zippy acidity with a very ripe core, is not at all jammy. A value-priced wine for the cellar: 3-5+ years. To enjoy now, decant for 2+ hours and serve. Juicy, delicious and full-bodied with alluring aromas of black cherry, cedar box, violets and smoke. Love it! Incredible price. 177576 14.80% XD 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 89/100. January 21, 2012 Full Review

Vigné Lourac Terrae Veritas Alain Et Vincent Gayrel 2008, A.C., Gaillac, Southwest, France  264689 12.80% XD 750 mL  $14.95. January 21, 2011 Full Review

Barista Val De Vie Pinotage 2010, W.O., Western Cape, Robertson, South Africa: Juicy dark fruit with some coffee, though I don't find that aroma overwhelming. Full-bodied and supple. Drink: 2012-2014. 172585 13.90% D 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 87/100. February 4, 2012 Full Review