Wynns Coonawarra Estate Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Drink: 2025-2043. 84996 14% XD 750 mL $44.95. June 20, 2026
Spectacular Spicy Wine Full ReviewSchild Estate Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: This 2021 multi-site Cabernet (Angus Brae / Narrow Road / Three Springs) from Schild Estate offers blackcurrant, clove and cedary oak, with a plump mouthfeel and chalky tannins for persistence. Try it with slow-roasted prime rib or mushroom Wellington. Drink: 2025-2036. 45345 14.50% XD 750 mL $28.95 Score: 93/100. October 25, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWakefield Estate Label Pinot Noir 2024, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield Estate Pinot Noir 2024 offers bright cherry and red-berry perfume with cedary oak spice and a hint of menthol; silky and approachable now, cellar gently to 2029—pair with mixed grill or roast chicken. Drink: 2025-2029. 197392 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewWirra Wirra MVCG Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Wirra Wirra MVCG Cabernet Sauvignon shows classic cassis and blood-plum depth with dried herb and menthol lift; full-bodied and finely balanced, cedar and spice frame a firm-tannic core—drink now or cellar for texture to soften. Drink: 2025-2027. 45380 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 22, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewMountadam High Eden Estate Chardonnay 2023, High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia, Australia: Mountadam's High Eden Estate Chardonnay from High Eden, Eden Valley, South Australia is an elegant, medium to full-bodied white wine offering notes of white peach, Meyer lemon, hazelnut and honeycomb. This dry wine displays creamy texture and vibrant minerality that will continue to develop over the next six years. Serve it chilled with butter-poached lobster as the wine's richness complements the succulent shellfish, or pair it with roasted chicken breast stuffed with spinach and feta where the wine's bright acidity balances the creamy filling. Winemaker Con Moshos crafts this Burgundian-style Chardonnay from high-altitude vineyards at 550 meters elevation, where cool nights and ancient soils create wines of remarkable finesse and mineral complexity that rival French benchmarks. Mountadam was established in 1972 by the late David Wynn, a pioneering figure who recognized the Eden Valley's potential for producing world-class cool-climate wines long before the region gained international recognition. This refined Chardonnay represents exceptional quality and will drink beautifully through 2031. Drink: 2025-2031. 333211 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 90/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewSchild Estate Ben Schild Single Vineyard Shiraz 2021, Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia: Schild Estate's Ben Schild Single Vineyard Shiraz from Barossa Valley is a plump, full-bodied red wine offering notes of dark plum preserve, ripe black cherry, baking spice, and espresso bean. This dry wine shows a rich, mouth-coating texture with polished tannins that will continue to evolve over the next ten years.
Serve it at room temperature with roast porchetta, where the wine’s layered intensity complements the herb-crusted pork, or pair it with grilled beef short ribs, as the wine’s dense fruit core stands up to the smoky char. Winemaker Scott Hazeldine crafts this instantly appealing Shiraz from grapes sourced from the Angus Brae Vineyard, building impressive concentration alongside savoury and spice-laced barrel nuance.
Ed Schild took over family vineyard operations following his father’s death in 1956, and this wine pays tribute to his legacy. This powerful, satin-textured Shiraz represents outstanding quality and will drink beautifully through 2036. Drink: 2026-2036. 58727 14.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 95/100. February 21, 2026
Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewBachelder Kirby Pinot Blanc 2023, Four Mile Creek, Niagara On The Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Drink: 2026-2030. 51810 13% XD 750 mL $34.95. June 20, 2026
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewErrázuriz Pinot Noir 2022, Aconcagua Costa D.O., Chile: Errázuriz's Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir from Chile is an elegant, medium-bodied red wine offering notes of ripe raspberry, red cherry, cranberry, and thyme. This dry wine displays sinewy tannins and mineral core that will continue to integrate over the next three years. Serve it slightly below room temperature with herb-roasted leg of lamb as the wine's structure complements the rich meat, or pair it with grilled veal chops where the wine's focused character balances the tender cut. Winemaker Francisco Baettig crafts this structured Pinot Noir from coastal vineyards twelve kilometers from the Pacific Ocean, where cooling maritime breezes create ideal conditions for the grape, aging the wine in previous-use French oak barrels with ten percent in concrete vats. Errázuriz has made a specialty of growing Pinot Noir on the Aconcagua Costa, pioneering this cool-climate region and demonstrating Chile's potential for producing world-class examples of this finicky variety. This pretty, food-friendly Pinot Noir represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2029. Drink: 2026-2029. 541151 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. January 24, 2026
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewCharly Nicolle Les Fourneaux Ante Mcmlxxx Chablis 2022, Burgundy A.O.P., France: Charly Nicolle's Les Fourneaux Ante Mcmlxxx Premier Cru Chablis from Burgundy is a generous, medium to full-bodied white wine offering notes of golden apple, Meyer lemon, orchard fruit and fresh herbs. This dry wine displays fabulously layered concentration and elegant mineral tones that will continue to develop over the next two years. Serve it well chilled with grilled halibut as the wine's pristine character complements the delicate fish, or pair it with duck terrine where the wine's refreshing acidity cuts through the rich pâté. Winemaker Charly Nicolle crafts this exquisite Chablis revealing deep citrus core enveloped by refined stony complexity and a remarkably harmonious, lengthy finish with an attractive maritime twist. The name Ante Mcmlxxx refers to vines planted before 1980, showcasing the remarkable quality possible from mature Chablis parcels. This brilliant, exuberant wine earned 95 points at the 2024 International Wine & Spirit Competition and represents outstanding quality and will drink beautifully through 2028 and the end of the decade. Drink: 2026-2028. 24945 13.50% XD 750 mL $54.95 Score: 92/100. February 7, 2026
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewPaul Mas La Forge Vineyard Marsanne 2024, La Forge Vineyard, Pays D'oc, Languedoc I.G.P., France: Paul Mas' La Forge Vineyard Marsanne from Pays d'Oc, Languedoc is a stunning, full-bodied white wine offering notes of golden pineapple, honeysuckle, cantaloupe and lemon custard. This dry, single-vineyard wine displays vibrant acidity and high-toned white florals that will continue to integrate over the next year and beyond. Serve it chilled with lemon and garlic chicken as the wine's opulent texture complements the citrus-infused poultry, or pair it with mild curries with fruit chutney where the wine's tropical character balances the spices. Winemaker Jean-Claude Mas crafts this perfectly sunny wine from an award-winning, historic estate, creating remarkable richness alongside green apple, Bartlett pear and velvety mouthfeel. The wine's lithe structure and zingy freshness make it wonderfully food-friendly. This fragrant, great-value Marsanne from a highly respected producer represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2027 and beyond. Drink: 2026-2027. 462457 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. February 21, 2026
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewPaul Mas Viognier 2024, Pays D'oc, Languedoc I.G.P., France: Paul Mas' Viognier from Pays d'Oc, Languedoc is a lush, medium to full-bodied white wine offering notes of apricot, honeysuckle, toasted almond and citrus blossom. This dry wine displays creamy texture and bright acidity that make it remarkably food-friendly. Serve it chilled with grilled sea bass as the wine's richness complements the delicate fish, or pair it with Thai red curry with vegetables where the wine's aromatic character balances the spicy, coconut-based sauce. Winemaker Jean-Claude Mas sources fruit from fifteen to twenty-five year old vines planted in clay and limestone soils just ten kilometers from the Mediterranean, where coastal breezes preserve freshness while abundant sunshine ripens the grapes fully. The Mas family has been making wine in Languedoc for four generations, and Jean-Claude has built an international reputation for producing exceptional quality at accessible prices across southern France. This sophisticated Viognier represents outstanding value and will drink beautifully through 2028. Drink: 2025-2028. 49802 13.50% D 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. December 20, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewFamile Perrin Les Christins Vacqueyras 2022, Vacqueyras A.O.C., Rhône, France: Famille Perrin's Les Christins Vacqueyras from Rhône is a vibrant, full-bodied red wine blending Grenache and Syrah with notes of black plum, wild thyme, white pepper and forest floor. This dry, beautifully balanced wine displays supple tannins and impressive freshness that will continue to develop over the next five years. Serve it at room temperature with grilled lamb merguez sausages as the wine's spicy character mirrors the North African spices, or pair it with herb-roasted pork loin where the wine's savory depth complements the fragrant rosemary and garlic. Winemaker Charles Perrin oversees this cuvée sourced from fifty-year-old vines in the rocky Dentelles de Montmirail foothills, hand-harvesting and aging the wine in traditional large oak foudres for a year. The Perrin family is best known for producing the legendary Château de Beaucastel in nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and they bring the same meticulous attention to detail to this exceptional Vacqueyras. This wine captures the essence of southern Rhône terroir at an outstanding price and will cellar gracefully through 2030. Drink: 2025-2030. 973453 14.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 93/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewJean-Paul Couamais Vouvray Cuvée Réserve Brut Sparkling, Loire, France: Jean-Paul Couamais Vouvray Cuvée Réserve Brut Sparkling is a dry, light-bodied sparkling wine made from 100% Chenin Blanc. It displays bright pear, baked apple, and grapefruit notes with a subtle hint of elderflower and a fresh, tangy finish. Pair it with seafood or chilled shrimp for a delicate complement, or enjoy it with creamy cheeses for a balanced, refreshing contrast. Serve chilled to enhance its vibrant acidity. This sparkling wine showcases the elegance and tradition of the Loire Valley. Drink: 2025-2028. 44208 12.50% D 750 mL $20.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2025
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full ReviewLa Chapelle de Lafaurie-Peyraguey Sauternes 2015, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France: La Chapelle de Lafaurie-Peyraguey from Sauternes is a luminous golden dessert wine crafted from the classic Bordeaux blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc affected by noble rot, unveiling intoxicating aromas of dried peach, beeswax and lime blossom with a sumptuously rich yet remarkably fresh palate. This is the convenient half bottle size (375 ml) which is ideal when you'd like to begin a meal with a glass and half each to toast. Serve it chilled with a wedge of Roquefort cheese and toasted walnuts, where the wine's nectarous sweetness melts into the pungent blue cheese while the nuts echo its complex layers, or pair it with a classic crème brûlée as the wine's toffee notes mirror the dessert's burnt sugar crust. Winemaker Sandrine Garbay produces this elegant second wine of the renowned Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, a Premier Cru Classé estate whose history dates back to the 13th century when it was owned by a family of local lords, and this exceptional Sauternes can be enjoyed now or cellared until 2028 as its complexity continues to evolve. Drink: 2025-2028. 477588 12.50% S 375 mL $40.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2025
Top Rated Dessert Wine. Divine Dessert Wine Full ReviewGardet Saint Flavy Champagne, Chigny les Roses, Champagne, France: A steal for Champagne! Great finesse, finish and crispness. Well-toned and refreshing. Aromas of baked bread, green apple and lime. Good persistence of flavours and bubbles. Perfect as an aperitif, whether as a toast to the happy couple or just for sipping on a sunlit afternoon. Drink: 2025-2028. 924654 12% XD 750 mL $59.95 Score: 92/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Splendid Salad Wine Full ReviewVeuve du Vernay Brut Sparkling, Burgundy, France: Veuve du Vernay Brut Sparkling, France is a terrific sparkling wine from the Burgundy region, zesty and crisp with lovely notes of green apple, citrus zest, and white peach, alongside soft brioche and floral hints. Light to medium-bodied, dry, and refreshing with fine bubbles and a clean, joyful finish at around 11.5% alcohol, it’s perfect for seafood and best served well chilled. Rooted in France’s 19th-century Crémant tradition, Veuve du Vernay crafts approachable, crowd-pleasing sparklers that deliver style and value. Drink: 2024-2026. 32535 11% D 750 mL $16.10 Score: 90/100. July 20, 2024
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full ReviewDomaine Bouchard Père & Fils Beaune Du Château Blanc Chardonnay 2021, Beaune, Burgundy A.O.C., France: Drink: 2026-2034. 88716 13.50% XD 750 mL $79.95. June 20, 2026
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewSaint-Roch Corbarol 2025, Côtes Du Roussillon, Roussillon A.O.P., France: Saint-Roch's Corbarol from Côtes du Roussillon is a dry, full-bodied white blend of old vine Grenache Blanc and Roussanne, pouring a pale lemon with glinting lime-green reflections and offering an inviting bouquet of beeswax, dried apricot, crushed oyster shell, warm brioche, and a whisper of saffron on the lingering finish. It's generously textured with a creamy, rounded mouthfeel and a streak of stony, sun-warmed minerality that gives the wine a wonderful sense of purpose and place. Saint-Roch is a historic estate rooted in the sun-baked terroir of Roussillon, a region tucked between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean that produces some of southern France's most characterful and underappreciated white wines. This wine was awarded a Gold medal at the prestigious Concours Général Agricole de Paris 2026, one of France's oldest and most respected wine competitions. Serve it at room temperature alongside a butternut squash risotto finished with sage and Parmesan, where the wine's nutty richness and fruity warmth create a seamless and satisfying pairing, or try it with a lemon herbed roast chicken, where the wine's stony brightness and creamy texture mirror the dish's golden, aromatic character beautifully. It will reward cellaring through 2032. Drink: 2026-2032. 175232 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 91/100. May 16, 2026
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewJanare Q Brut Falanghina Sparkling, Sannio Benevento, Campania D.O.P., Italy: Pale gold fizz lifts honeyed-melon and quince-blossom aromas, while a plush core of baked-pear and fresh-almond notes rides on a cushion of fine bead. Bright and inviting, it finishes on a chalky whisper. Pair with prosciutto-wrapped melon and lemon-ricotta crostini. Drink: 2025-2027. 45390 12% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. September 13, 2025
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewNikka From The Barrel Whisky, Japan: A powerful, complex spirit that greets you with aromas of caramel, dried fruit, and toasted oak, layered with spice, vanilla, and a hint of smoke. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, rich, and warming, with flavors of toffee, orange peel, baking spice, and a touch of leather, all carried by its bold 51.4% alcohol. The texture is velvety yet assertive, finishing long and layered. Serve it neat to appreciate its intensity, or with a splash of water to open up its intricate aromas. Fascinating fact: Created in 1985 by master blender Tadashi Sakuma, this whisky combines over 100 different malt and grain whiskies, which are re-casked to “marry” before bottling—a technique that adds remarkable depth and harmony. With its strength and concentration, it will keep beautifully for many years once opened if stored properly. 10226 51.40% 500 mL $64.95 Score: 95/100. October 25, 2025
Full ReviewDomaine des Tourelles Marquis des Beys Red 2019, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon: Domaine des Tourelles' Marquis des Beys from Bekaa Valley is a structured, full-bodied red wine blending Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon with notes of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, wild berries and forest floor. This dry wine displays firm tannins and impressive depth that will continue to soften over the next four years. Serve it at room temperature with grilled lamb kefta as the wine's bold structure complements the spiced meat, or pair it with slow-roasted eggplant with tahini where the wine's earthy complexity enhances the smoky vegetable. Winemaker Faouzi Issa crafts this expressive blend from higher-altitude parcels in the Bekaa Valley, where cool nights and ancient soils create wines of remarkable concentration and Mediterranean character. Domaine des Tourelles is one of Lebanon's oldest wineries, established in 1868, and the Issa family has been crafting exceptional wines for five generations, preserving Lebanese winemaking traditions while embracing modern techniques. This complex red represents outstanding quality from one of the world's most ancient wine regions and will drink beautifully through 2029. Drink: 2025-2029. 45620 14% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 92/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Full ReviewClos Henri Estate Pinot Noir 2022, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Clos Henri Petit Clos is a dry, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with a juicy weight and elegant structure. Organically and biodynamically farmed in Marlborough by the Bourgeois family, the wine showcases red and purple berry flavours with subtle loamy and forest floor notes, complemented by gentle toast influence. Pair it with roast turkey for a classic holiday meal, or grilled veal chops for a simple, savoury pairing. The estate's commitment to sustainable farming reflects its careful attention to terroir and vineyard health. Enjoy this wine now or cellar for a few years to enhance its complexity. Drink: 2025-2030. 19621 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. December 6, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewEradus Pinot Gris 2024, Marlborough, New Zealand: Eradus' Pinot Gris from Marlborough is a delightful, medium-bodied white wine offering notes of cantaloupe, Bosc pear, Meyer lemon zest and cardamom spice. This dry wine displays supple texture and vibrant acidity that will continue to integrate over the next year. Serve it chilled with pork tenderloin as the wine's fruit purity complements the tender meat, or pair it with pasta in cream sauce where the wine's fleshy character balances the rich dish. Winemaker Michèle Eradus crafts this elegantly fragrant wine with remarkable savory complexity alongside dried oregano notes and succulent mouthfeel. The wine's lengthy, invigorating finish showcases New Zealand's ability to produce Pinot Gris with distinctive personality beyond typical styles. This equally attractive, food-friendly wine represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2027. Drink: 2026-2027. 439000 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. February 21, 2026
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewMount Riley Pinot Noir 2023, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Mount Riley Pinot Noir from Marlborough offers fragrant wild raspberry, dark cherry, dried thyme and a whisper of toasted oak. It's dry and medium-bodied with silky tannins and bright acidity that keeps the wine fresh and food-friendly. Serve it slightly below room temperature alongside herb-crusted roast chicken where the wine's savory notes and smooth texture complement the crispy skin and tender meat, or pair it with grilled pork chops topped with cherry compote where the wine's fruit intensity echoes the sweet-tart sauce while cutting through the richness. Winemaker Matt Murphy, who honed his craft at prestigious Craggy Range for seven years before joining this family operation, crafts this Pinot Noir from fruit grown across Mount Riley's ten sustainably-farmed vineyards in Marlborough's diverse subregions, including fruit from their warmest Waihopai site and their cooler 17 Valley vineyard which often produces their most elegant expressions. Founded in 1992 when fifth-generation Marlborough resident John Buchanan left his corporate job to return to his family's roots, Mount Riley remains firmly family-owned with John's daughter Amy managing operations and her husband Matt leading winemaking, and their 17 Valley Pinot Noir earned Gold at the 2020 Marlborough Wine Show while the winery has collected 19 Gold medals at the New World Wine Awards since 2008, making it the third most awarded winery in that competition's history. Enjoy this elegant Pinot Noir through 2027. Drink: 2026-2027. 60137 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 94/100. February 21, 2026
Calm Curry Wine Full ReviewInvivo Pinot Noir 2024, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand: Invivo's Pinot Noir from Central Otago, South Island is an elegant, medium-bodied red wine offering notes of ripe raspberry, wild strawberry, black olive and toasted hazelnut. This dry, small-batch wine displays silky-smooth texture and supple character that will continue to develop over the next four years. Serve it slightly below room temperature with lamb tagine as the wine's sweetly fruited profile complements the aromatic spices, or pair it with filet mignon of venison where the wine's velvety tannins balance the lean game. Winemaker Tim Lightbourne crafts this charming Pinot from fruit selected from three small growers, creating remarkable purity alongside cardamom spice and garden herb complexity. The wine's beautifully rounded palate flows to a lengthy, refined finish showcasing Central Otago's potential for world-class Pinot Noir. This fresh, inviting wine represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2030. Drink: 2026-2030. 466029 14.20% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 93/100. February 21, 2026
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewCraggy Range Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc 2024, Martinborough, North Island, New Zealand: Craggy Range's Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc from Martinborough, North Island is a vibrant, medium-bodied white wine offering notes of ripe guava, golden kiwi, Meyer lemon, and nectarine. This dry wine reveals a flinty edge and smooth, rounded texture that will continue to evolve over the next five years.
Serve it well chilled with grilled calamari, where the wine’s bright acidity lifts the charred seafood, or pair it with fish tacos, as the wine’s juicy mid-palate complements the fresh toppings. Winemaker Matt Stafford crafts this wine with a clear sense of place, expressing gravelly earth tones alongside papaya and citrus blossom, shaped by coastal freshness and a hint of wild herb nuance.
Its lively structure and refreshing drive make it exceptionally food-friendly. This polished, expressive Sauvignon Blanc represents outstanding quality and will drink beautifully through 2030. Drink: 2025-2030. 466011 13% XD 750 mL $32.95 Score: 94/100. February 21, 2026
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewStoneleigh Latitude Pinot Noir 2023, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Stoneleigh Latitude Pinot Noir offers lifted aromas of raspberry, woodland herbs and hints of sandalwood. It's dry and medium-bodied with polished tannins. Serve it lightly chilled with cedar-planked salmon where the wine's earthy character complements the smoky wood while its vibrant acidity balances the fish's richness, or cellar it through 2032. Group winemaker Jamie Marfell, who has crafted Stoneleigh wines for over 20 years, sources this wine from the Golden Mile, a strip of land covered with ancient sunstones that absorb heat during the day and radiate it back to the vines at night. The Stoneleigh estate was first planted in 1981 and helped establish Marlborough as one of the world's great regions for Pinot Noir. This versatile wine also pairs beautifully with herb-roasted turkey breast, where the wine's silky texture complements the tender meat while its fresh acidity cuts through the richness. Drink: 2026-2032. 325654 14% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 94/100. March 7, 2026
Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewKono Pinot Noir 2022, South Island, New Zealand: Kono Pinot Noir from South Island, New Zealand is a dry, medium-bodied cool-climate red that opens with a delicate and fragrant nose of ripe red cherry, fresh strawberry, dried rose petal, wild thyme, and a thread of earthy forest floor. On the palate it is elegant and finely structured, with silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a persistent, beautifully balanced finish that carries layers of red berry, warm spice, and a gentle whisper of toasted French oak. Lightly chilled, it drinks beautifully from 2026 and will continue to develop through 2034. The Kono winemaking team crafts this Pinot Noir from sustainably grown South Island grapes, maturing the wine in French oak to build complexity while preserving the freshness and finesse that define the region's cool-climate character. Kono is a proudly Maori-owned business, collectively held by approximately 250 families descended from the traditional landowners of the Te Tauihu region of Nelson, and the name itself comes from the Maori tradition of presenting a kono, a woven flax basket of food, to welcome guests - an expression of hospitality that speaks to the spirit of every bottle. Pair it with grilled lamb chops rubbed with rosemary and sea salt, where the wine's earthy red fruit and wild herb notes are a natural companion, or try it with a golden herb-roasted chicken, letting the wine's silky fruit and gentle oak warmth weave through every savoury bite. Drink: 2026-2034. 19623 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 91/100. April 11, 2026
Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewRapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc 2025, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Rapaura Springs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is a dry, medium-bodied white of real intensity and distinction, sourced from sustainably grown grapes and bursting with a boldly expressive bouquet of crushed lychee, white currant, kaffir lime leaf, sun-ripened fig, and a gorgeous briny, oyster shell minerality that gives this wine a thrilling sense of coastal place and Marlborough character. It's mouth-filling and concentrated, with a mouthwatering, electric acidity and a long, focused finish that lingers with real persistence and drive. Rapaura Springs takes its name from the Rapaura area of Marlborough, widely considered the golden heart of the region's most prized Sauvignon Blanc vineyards, where the stony, free-draining soils and long, cool ripening season consistently produce wines of exceptional aromatic intensity and freshness. This Reserve was awarded an outstanding 96 points at the New Zealand International Wine Show 2025, one of the Southern Hemisphere's most respected wine competitions, a remarkable achievement that speaks to the quality and ambition behind this wine. Serve it well chilled alongside barbecued lobster with a tarragon butter sauce, where the wine's briny minerality and tropical richness create a luxurious and memorable pairing, or try it with a chilled seafood platter, letting the wine's crisp, vibrant acidity and layered fruit cut through the delicate brininess of fresh shellfish with effortless elegance. Enjoy it through 2028. Drink: 2026-2028. 388421 13.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 94/100. May 16, 2026
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewVilla Maria Pinot Gris 2024, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Villa Maria's Marlborough Pinot Gris is a dry, medium-bodied white of delightful freshness and expressive character, crafted predominantly in stainless steel with just 5% aged in oak barrels, a restrained and thoughtful approach that preserves the wine's racy, vibrant personality while adding a subtle whisper of textural complexity. It opens with an inviting and fragrant bouquet of honeyed quince, dried nectarine, white jasmine, warm gingerbread, and a gentle thread of candied citrus peel that gives the wine a quietly exotic and thoroughly appealing aromatic lift. The palate is succulent and fleshy, with a juicy, mouthwatering acidity and a clean, persistent finish that makes this wine as compelling with food as it is on its own. Villa Maria is one of New Zealand's most decorated and respected wine producers, founded by Sir George Fistonich in 1961 and credited with helping to establish New Zealand's reputation for world-class white wine on the global stage. Serve it well chilled alongside steamed prawns in a garlic and lemon sauce, where the wine's citrusy brightness and fleshy texture are a wonderfully natural match, or pair it with king crab in lemon butter, letting the wine's honeyed depth and racy acidity cut through the richness of the dish with effortless elegance. Enjoy it through 2028. Drink: 2026-2028. 447490 13.50% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. May 16, 2026
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewVilla Maria Private Bin East Coast Pinot Gris 2021, New Zealand: Villa Maria Private Bin East Coast 2021 Pinot Gris is so fragrant with ripe pear, apple, honeyed melon aromas mirrored on the palate with a smooth and lingering mineral finish. A lovely, fresh, dry and juicy PG produced from grapes sourced from several coastal sites: Hawke's Bay, Marlborough, Gisborne and Waipara. Great value at $20. Drink: 2023-2025. 30153 13.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. September 9, 2023
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewJules Taylor Pinot Noir 2021, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: This Marlborough Pinot Noir from Jules Taylor greets you with a perfume of ripe damson and violet petals, laced with a hint of clove spice. Its medium-bodied palate glides on a silky ribbon of chalky tannin, unveiling bright raspberry and earthy mushroom notes. Fresh acidity and a fine-grained structure deliver tension and polish through the finish. Pair with thyme-roasted quail or creamy chèvre polenta for a refined experience. Drink: 2025-2032. 329805 13.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 95/100. July 19, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewMatahiwi Estate Pinot Gris 2023, Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand: Matahiwi Estate 2023 Pinot Gris from Wairarapa unfurls aromas of golden plum and ripe melon layered with toasted brioche and cedar undertones. It’s lush yet agile, finishing with a zesty lift. Chill and enjoy with pork medallions in herb vinaigrette, roasted baby potatoes and charred corn salsa. Drink: 2025-2027. 12679 12.80% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. August 2, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewThornbury Sauvignon Blanc 2024, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Green-melon and apple aromas entwine with lemon zest and herbaceous lift, flowing into a succulent palate of vibrant citrus and lingering minerality. Fabulous together with oysters on the half shell or goat-cheese salad. Drink: 2024-2026. 734798 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. May 16, 2026
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewTohu Awatere Valley Pinot Gris 2024, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Succulent Asian-pear and nectarine aromas glide into a silky-smooth core of lemon-blossom sweetness, underpinned by lifted acidity and a clean, lingering finish. Try it alongside seared scallops or goat-cheese crostini. Drink: 2025-2027. 43361 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. September 27, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewWhitehaven Greg Southern Valleys Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Whitehaven Greg Southern Valleys Single Vineyard Pinot Noir is a dry, medium-bodied and beautifully concentrated Marlborough Pinot that pours a translucent ruby and opens with a captivating, complex nose of macerated wild cherry, dried currant and rose hip, layered with savoury notes of dried porcini mushroom, crushed autumn leaves and toasted hazelnut, with a silky whisper of whole-bunch fermentation adding a lifted, spicy dimension. The palate is plush yet precise, with polished, fine-grained tannins and a vibrant, cooling acidity that gives the wine impressive freshness and length, finishing long and harmonious with lingering earthy spice. Serve it slightly below room temperature and drink from now through 2034. Chief winemaker Peter Jackson crafts this wine as the flagship single vineyard expression of the estate, and the Greg label carries a deeply personal story: it was created in honour of co-founder Greg White, who passed away from cancer in 2007, having established Whitehaven just thirteen years earlier after seeking shelter from a Pacific storm in the Marlborough Sounds aboard his 48-foot sailboat and falling irreversibly in love with the region. The anchor symbol on every Whitehaven bottle is a tribute to that founding moment of adventure and discovery, and every bottle of the Greg series keeps that spirit very much alive. Try this alongside a slow-roasted duck breast with cherry reduction, where the wine's earthy complexity and red-fruit core are an inspired pairing, or serve it with a classic coq au vin for a deeply satisfying and elegant dinner. Drink: 2026-2034. 48068 13.50% XD 750 mL $39.95 Score: 97/100. May 16, 2026
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewQuinta da Raza Alvarinho 2023, Vinho Verde D.O.C., Portugal: This lovely Alvarinho shows honeysuckle perfume, pear-nectar and apricot flesh on a lime-tinged palate, while vibrant acidity sparkles through to a refreshing finish. Excellent with ceviche or steamed mussels. Drink: 2025-2025. 31789 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. October 11, 2025
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewQuinta do Espírito Santo 2020, Vinho Regional Lisboa, Portugal: From Casa Santos Lima, Quinta do Espírito Santo 2020 is a vegan-friendly, full-bodied and vibrant red wine blend of Tinta Roriz and Castelão wine grapes. Excellent value at $16, the wine is fragrant with crushed red berry, dried fruits, mocha and spicy with a warm and long, silky finish. The wine was aged in a blend of Portuguese and American oak vats, and this vintage was awarded Grand Gold at the 2023 Citadelles du Vin. Drink: 2024-2028. 488015 15% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. May 11, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewCasa Santos Lima Quid Pro Quo 2021, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Alentejo, Portugal: From Vinho Regional Alentejano, Casa Santos Lima, Quid Pro Quo 2021 is a vegan-friendly and velvety red wine blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Syrah and Alicante Bouschet. Amazing value at $14, this is a beautifully balanced, dry and full-bodied Alentejo red, generous with ripe dark fruits, plum, savoury herbs rounded and supple on the palate. Very nicely structured. Buy cases of it at this price. Drink: 2024-2027. 37768 14% D 750 mL $11.95 Score: 89/100. June 8, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBacalhôa Moscatel De Setúbal 2022, Setúbal D.O.P., Portugal: Bacalhôa's Moscatel de Setúbal from Setúbal is a youthful, medium-bodied fortified wine crafted from 100% Moscatel de Setúbal with notes of white nectarine, orange blossom, honeyed apricot and sweet spice. This lusciously sweet wine displays generous acidity to balance its rich texture and warming character. Serve it well chilled with lemon tart as the wine's citrus peel notes complement the dessert, or pair it with creamy blue cheese where the wine's sweetness balances the pungent, salty flavors. Winemaker José Neiva Correia crafts this fortified dessert wine with a façade of honeysuckle aromatics leading to an unctuous core diffused by bright acidity, finishing with marzipan, toasted nuts and dried fruit complexity. Bacalhôa has been producing exceptional fortified wines in Setúbal for generations, showcasing Portugal's traditional Moscatel style at accessible prices. This warming wine earned 95 points and Value designation at the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards and represents outstanding quality and will drink beautifully through 2030. Drink: 2026-2030. 996181 17% S 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. February 7, 2026
Divine Dessert Wine Full ReviewKasteelberg Chenin Blanc 2025, Swartland W.O., South Africa: Kasteelberg Chenin Blanc from Swartland is a rich, medium-bodied white offering aromas of candied tangerine, ripe papaya, and hints of toasted vanilla. It's off-dry with lively acidity and a luxurious texture. Serve it well chilled with grilled prawns as the wine's tropical character and silky mouthfeel will enhance the seafood's sweetness beautifully, or pair it with roasted chicken and herbs where the wine's depth and oak-influenced complexity will complement the savory flavors perfectly. Head winemaker Alecia Boshoff, who leads production at Riebeek Valley Wine Co. (formerly Riebeek Cellars), crafts this wine from hand-selected grapes grown on the foothills of the majestic Kasteelberg Mountain, which stands as sentinel over the fertile Riebeek Valley. Established in 1941, the cooperative brings together 22 families of third- and fourth-generation grape growers who farm dry-land vineyards planted on distinctive prehistoric sandstone and shale soils, and the winery ages this wine partially in oak barrels to add depth and textured richness. Enjoy now or cellar for 2-4 years. Drink: 2026-2030. 48110 12.50% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. February 21, 2026
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewWarwick The First Lady Sauvignon Blanc 2025, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Warwick The First Lady Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa's Western Cape is a zesty, aromatic white wine bursting with notes of white peach, pink grapefruit, and tropical guava with a subtle herbaceous edge. It's bone-dry and light to medium-bodied with bright, refreshing acidity that energizes the palate through to a clean, mineral finish. Serve it well chilled with steamed mussels in white wine broth as the wine's lively acidity and citrus character will complement the briny shellfish beautifully, or pair it with herb-roasted chicken where the wine's fresh, grassy notes will echo the aromatics. Cellarmaster JD Pretorius, a Cape Winemakers Guild member since 2018 and recipient of the Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year award in 2014, crafts this wine at the historic estate founded in 1771. The First Lady range honors Norma Ratcliffe, one of South Africa's pioneering female winemakers who became the first woman inducted into the Cape Winemakers Guild in 1989 and its first female chairperson in 1993. This wine drinks beautifully now or can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. Drink: 2026-2028. 48092 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. February 7, 2026
Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewKanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2022, Stellenbosch D.O., South Africa: Kanonkop Wine Estate's Pinotage from Stellenbosch is an expressive, full-bodied red wine showcasing notes of blackberry, rose petal, cinnamon and dark chocolate. This dry wine displays silky tannins and vibrant acidity that will continue to evolve over the next five years. Serve it at room temperature with grilled ostrich steaks as the wine's bold fruit matches the lean game meat, or pair it with barbecue pulled pork sandwiches where the wine's spice complements the smoky sauce. Winemaker Abrie Beeslaar has been crafting world-class Pinotage at Kanonkop since 2002, producing wines that showcase the elegance and complexity this uniquely South African grape can achieve. Kanonkop Estate is one of South Africa's most celebrated wineries, having won the prestigious Robert Parker Wine Advocate Winery of the Year award, and the estate has been instrumental in elevating Pinotage's reputation on the global stage. This widely distributed Pinotage represents exceptional value and will drink beautifully through 2030. Drink: 2025-2030. 30191 14.20% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewGraham Beck Pinot Noir Chardonnay Rosé Sparkling, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Graham Beck Méthode Cap Classique Brut Pinot Noir/Rosé Sparkling Chardonnay is a brilliant example of South Africa’s esteemed sparkling tradition, meticulously crafted using the time-honoured méthode champenoise. This blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay displays a striking blush hue, while the nose teases with hints of freshly baked brioche, zesty citrus peel, and a touch of roasted almonds. On the palate, the wine is robust yet refreshingly brisk, with an expertly measured dosage that maintains its inviting character without sacrificing its lively spirit. An exceptional choice for festive occasions, it pairs beautifully with crispy calamari and chargrilled shrimp skewers. Drink: 2025-2029. 175588 12% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. May 16, 2026
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewAlvi's Drift Private Cellar Viognier 2024, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: White-blossom and ripe-peach aromas mingle with zesty citrus and apricot warmth, forming a generous, lively profile. Fabulous together with spicy chicken or veggie lasagna. Drink: 2025-2027. 18687 13.50% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. September 27, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewAgramont Gran Reserva 2015, Navarra D.O., Spain: Black-currant and pomegranate aromas unfurl into baking-spice warmth and a hint of espresso; silky tannins weave through cherry compote and dark-chocolate echoes, finishing with aniseed and lavender. Pair this Gran Reserva with beef tenderloin or dark-chocolate desserts. Drink: 2025-2026. 44663 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. September 27, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewOntañón Viura 2021, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Toasty pastry and honeyed almond aromas glide into waxed-lemon brightness, while a lees-kissed core leads to a long, dry finish crowned with butterscotch warmth. Pair with roasted pork loin or aged Manchego. Drink: 2025-2027. 437707 13% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 91/100. September 27, 2025
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewHacienda López de Haro Reserva 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Hacienda López de Haro Reserva 2018 offers raspberry-and-plum aromas laced with dried-tobacco and spice, while a succulent mid-palate unfolds under medium-firm tannins and gentle clove warmth. Try it alongside roast pork or mushroom risotto. Drink: 2025-2028. 357335 13.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 90/100. October 11, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewR. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Reserva 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: The 2013 Reserva Viña Tondonia melds sous-bois and restrained black-fruit aromas with balsamic-herb lift and cedar-vanilla spice, all carried by medium body, chalk-dust tannins and a layered tertiary finish. A great pairing for aged Manchego or grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2025-2055. 19022 12.50% XD 375 mL $43.95 Score: 95/100. October 11, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewPuelles Gran Reserva 2015, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This Gran Reserva Rioja (95% Tempranillo, 5% Grenache, Graciano & Mazuelo) spent 24 months in French and American oak. Aromas of dark plum and red berries flow into layers of bittersweet chocolate and balsamic nuance, framed by perfect acidity and silky, integrated tannins. Drinking beautifully now and will evolve gracefully into the early 2030s. Pair with smoked meats, braised beef dishes, meat pies or hard cheeses. Drink: 2025-2029. 30222 14% XD 750 mL $26.75 Score: 93/100. August 2, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewOntañón Reserva Rioja 2015, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: A ripple of cracked black-pepper and dried-tobacco leaf frames rich damson compote, all carried by taut tannins. Balanced and savory, it demands bold flavors. Pair with duck-confit pizzettes and smoked-brisket quesadillas. Drink: 2025-2028. 725895 13.50% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 94/100. September 13, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewNivarius Edición Limitada Blanco 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Toasted almond and white-flower aromas meet baked apple and lemon-zest on a creamy, oak-kissed palate. Bright acidity and a long, nutty finish promise graceful aging. Pairs equally well with mushroom risotto or grilled sea bass with almond crust. Drink: 2025-2029. 15591 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 93/100. September 13, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewMuriel Reserva 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Fresh bay-leaf and tomato-vine aromas weave through a tapestry of cranberry compote and cedar plank. Chalk-fine tannins support each sip, leading to a lingering thread of dusty spice. Serve with herb-crusted rack of lamb and piquillo-pepper empanadas. Drink: 2025-2027. 276030 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. September 13, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewIzarbe 2007, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Warm hazelnut and dark-chocolate aromas mingle with spiced cherry and subtle tobacco leaf, while cedar oak weaves through a plush core of plum. The finish is creamy and resonant, with fine-grained tannins ensuring longevity. Pair with grilled ribeye or smoked gouda. Drink: 2025-2030. 44870 14% XD 750 mL $51.95 Score: 93/100. September 27, 2025
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewLa Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi Reserva 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This pure Reserva Tempranillo captivates with enticing aromas of sweet spices, a wisp of smoke, and a savoury hint of seaweed. Subtle nuances of roasted nuts and Iberico ham add depth to the bouquet. Medium-bodied on the palate, it reveals a juicy core of fruit supported by rounded, finely polished tannins. Balanced and approachable, this wine offers a harmonious drinking experience now, with the potential to evolve gracefully into the early 2030s. Drink: 2025-2030. 30885 14% XD 750 mL $29.95 Score: 92/100. January 21, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewVilarnau Barcelona Reserva Brut Organic Cava, Penedès D.O., Spain: Vilarnau Barcelona Reserva Cava is a traditional method sparkler produced with organically grown Viura, Xarel-lo and Parellada grapes and the cuvée was fermented with native yeasts. Fragrant with fresh yellow apple, biscuit with exotic florals on the nose and layered on the palate on a fine mousse, it is a stylish and delish Cava to enjoy chilled up with tapas, or simply on its own. Awarded Double Gold at the 2022 Sakura Japan Women's Wine Awards. Drink: 2025-2027. 515254 11.20% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 90/100. October 11, 2025
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewCuatro Rayas 40 Cuarenta Vendimias Seleccion Especial Verdejo 2023, Rueda, Spain: This vibrant and straightforward Verdejo comes from 40-year-old vines, showcasing classic citrus notes of grapefruit pith, lime, and a hint of pine. The palate is fresh and energetic, with the distinctive intensity from the region's canto rodado soils. A wine with character and a refreshing, unpretentious charm, perfect for a variety of occasions. Drink now through 2027 alongside smoked salmon or grilled seafood. Drink: 2025-2027. 41261 13% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 92/100. April 26, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewTorres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Penedès, Spain: Gorgeous complexity and concentration of flavour on this blockbuster Spanish red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape! The grapes for this lusciously ripe Cabernet grow on vines planted on the belvedere of the Mas la Palana estate. Aromas of blackberry jam, dark spice and some pepper. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2017-2024. 36483 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 16, 2019
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewBarón de Ley Gran Reserva 2017, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Barón de Ley Gran Reserva 2017 is a vegan-friendly, dry, full-bodied Tempranillo from the Rioja wine region with a mouthful of ripe dark cherry, crushed raspberry, savoury herbs and dark spice flavours plentiful on the palate. Very elegant with chalky tannins, enjoy it now or cellar to 2027. Drink: 2025-2032. 642496 13.50% D 750 mL $32.95 Score: 95/100. December 6, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewPomelado Orange Wine 2023, Castilla La Mancha, Spain: Dominio de Punctum’s 2023 Pomelado is a copper-tinted orange wine steeped in apricot, ripe mango and toasted almond notes. Skin contact delivers a plush, tannic structure, balanced by bright, juicy acidity. The finish is long and laced with spice and minerality. Pair with roasted root-vegetable salad or Korean-style pork belly. Drink: 2025-2026. 12119 13.20% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. July 19, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewCastaño Hécula Organic Monastrell 2022, Yecla D.O., Spain: Castaño Hécula 2022 Monastrell skips the heavy theme in favor of fresh-picked berry uplift, melding wild-herb garrigue notes with ripe boysenberry and a kiss of rhubarb. Its light-footed tannins and bright pulse of acidity give each sip a sprightly finish. Pair it with smoky eggplant stacks topped with labneh or spicy chorizo-and-poblano tacos for a fun contrast. Drink: 2025-2026. 718999 14% XD 750 mL $13.95 Score: 90/100. July 19, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewCune Blanco Reserva 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Cune Blanco Reserva 2019 is produced from Viura grapes from vines planted in 1973 in clay-rich soils around the village of Torre Montalvo. The vineyard is protected from the frost by the small Barbarroja mountain. This is the second vintage of the Reserva white similar to the style of wine they produced in the 1950s and 1960s. The 2019 vintage is dry, medium-bodied and citrusy with fine herbs, dried florals and smoky notes, chalky-textured and vibrant on the palate. The wine was matured in a combination of concrete, oak vats and barrel for 18 months. Chill and enjoy it through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 22446 13.50% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 92/100. September 20, 2024
Top Rated White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewCampo Viejo Brut Cava, Catalunya D.O., Spain: Campo Viejo's Brut Cava from Catalunya is a crisp, light to medium-bodied sparkling wine showcasing notes of green apple, citrus, toasted almond and white flowers. This sparkling wine is made using Méthode Traditionnelle or the traditional method of the second fermentation in the bottle, just as they do in the Champagne region. The wine displays bright acidity and delicate bubbles that make it ideal for aperitifs and light fare. Serve it well chilled with Spanish manchego cheese and marcona almonds as the wine's effervescence refreshes the palate between bites, or pair it with shrimp ceviche where the wine's citrus character complements the lime-cured seafood. Winemaker Elena Adell crafts this traditional-method Cava from indigenous Spanish varieties including Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada, creating a sparkling wine of remarkable balance and elegance. This Cava earned a prestigious Gold medal at the 2023 New York International Wine Competition, recognizing its exceptional quality at an accessible price point. Enjoy this refreshing sparkler through 2028. Drink: 2025-2028. 37268 11.50% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 94/100. December 20, 2025
Best Value Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewPleno Gran Reserva 2015, Navarra D.O., Spain: Pleno's Gran Reserva from Navarra is an opulent, full-bodied red wine offering notes of dark cherry, coffee, violet and dried herbs. This dry wine displays polished tannins and concentrated fruit that reflect its extended aging and excellent vintage. Serve it at room temperature with grilled lamb chops with rosemary as the wine's herbaceous character complements the aromatic seasoning, or pair it with aged manchego and quince paste where the wine's richness balances the sharp cheese and sweet fruit. Winemaker Javier Hernández crafts this Gran Reserva from carefully selected parcels, aging the wine extensively in oak to develop layers of complexity while maintaining freshness. Navarra has long stood in the shadow of neighboring Rioja, but forward-thinking producers like Pleno are showcasing the region's potential for crafting world-class wines at exceptional prices. This luxurious Gran Reserva represents outstanding value and will continue to evolve through 2030. Drink: 2025-2030. 25537 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. December 20, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewMatilda Nieves Mencia 2020, Ribeira Sacra, Ribera del Duero D.O., Spain: From Bodegas Rectoral de Amandi, Matilda Nieves 2020 is a vibrant red wine blend of 85% Mencia, 8% Garnacha and 7% Sousón with grapes sourced from the incredibly steep slopes of Ribeira Sacra. Fragrant with ripe dark plum, blackberry, mulberry and blueberry aromas, the wine is silky and mouth-filling with dark berry and ripe plum flavours fresh, vibrant and silky on the palate. Tannins are velvety. Drink: 2025-2027. 26322 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. March 29, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewPalacio Glorioso Reserva 2019, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Palacio Glorioso Reserva from Rioja is a polished, full-bodied red wine crafted from Tempranillo with notes of dark cherry, vanilla, dried violet and aged balsamic. This dry wine displays silky tannins and vibrant acidity that will continue to evolve over the next six years. Serve it at room temperature with lamb tagine with prunes as the wine's sweet spice complements the Moroccan flavors, or pair it with mushroom and manchego empanadas where the wine's earthy depth enhances the savory filling. Winemaker Juan Carlos López Lacalle ages this Reserva in a combination of American and French oak barrels, creating layers of complexity while preserving the fruit's purity. The historic Bodegas Palacio was founded in 1894 by Don Cosme de Palacio, who later went on to establish the legendary Vega Sicilia estate in Ribera del Duero, making him one of Spain's most influential wine pioneers. This elegant Rioja represents exceptional value and will drink beautifully through 2031. Drink: 2025-2031. 930164 12.50% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. December 20, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewPago del Cielo Celeste Verdejo Sur Lees 2024, Rueda D.O., Spain: Pago del Cielo's Celeste Verdejo Sur Lees from Rueda is a vibrant, medium-bodied white wine blending Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc with notes of green apple, grapefruit, lime and fresh herbs. This dry wine displays creamy texture and refreshing acidity that create an energetic, food-friendly profile. Serve it well chilled with grilled asparagus with hollandaise as the wine's bright acidity cuts through the rich sauce, or pair it with Spanish tortilla where the wine's freshness balances the creamy eggs and potatoes. Winemaker Juan Carlos Sancha ages this expressive white wine on its lees to add texture and complexity while preserving the fruit's aromatic purity and taut structure. Pago del Cielo represents a new generation of Spanish winemaking, focusing on indigenous varieties like Verdejo while bringing modern techniques to showcase the potential of Rueda's high-altitude vineyards. This clear, expressive wine represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2027. Drink: 2025-2027. 44756 13.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 92/100. December 20, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Full ReviewTerra d'Uro Reserva Toro 2011, Toro D.O., Castilla Y León, Spain: This 2011 Terra D'Uro Toro Reserva brims with coffee-and-cedar spice over dried-berry and tea-leaf notes; full-bodied and traditionally drying, it remains lively now—serve with roasted game or braised beef. Drink: 2025-2027. 44871 14.50% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 92/100. November 8, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBon Mas 2020, Priorat D.O.Ca, Spain: Bon Mas Priorat from Catalonia is a bold, full-bodied red offering aromas of ripe blackberry, dark cocoa, and hints of crushed peppercorn. It's dry with velvety tannins and concentrated dark fruit. Serve it slightly below room temperature with grilled lamb chops as the wine's rich structure and mineral backbone will enhance the meat's savory richness beautifully, or pair it with aged Manchego cheese where the wine's depth and smooth finish will complement the cheese's nutty complexity perfectly. Winemaker Jordi Puxeu crafts this wine for Cellers Unió, the historic cooperative founded in 1942 that predates even the Priorat appellation and bottled its first official DO Priorat wine in 1945. The wine comes from old, low-yielding vines planted on the region's famous llicorella—black slate and quartz soils formed millions of years ago—which force roots to dig deep through rocky crevices, producing intensely concentrated berries that create Priorat's signature power and minerality. Enjoy now or cellar for 3-4 years. Drink: 2026-2030. 44773 14.50% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 91/100. February 7, 2026
Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewMarieta Albariño 2024, Rias Baixas D.O., Spain: Marieta Albariño from Rías Baixas is a vibrant, medium-bodied white wine offering notes of Granny Smith apple, Bartlett pear, golden apricot and honeydew melon. This dry wine displays high-toned floral character and well-defined fruit that will continue to integrate over the next three years. Serve it well chilled with calamari as the wine's crisp acidity complements the tender seafood, or pair it with spaghetti alle vongole where the wine's citrus brightness enhances the briny clams. Winemaker Luciano Amoedo crafts this fun wine for Martín Códax, the largest cooperative in Galicia and renowned for producing the finest Albariño in the region. The wine's yellow peach and tangerine complexity make it built for seafood or vegetarian sushi. This bright, food-friendly Albariño represents excellent quality and will drink beautifully through 2029. Drink: 2026-2029. 22498 11.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. February 21, 2026
Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewArmas de guerra Godello 2024, Bierzo D.O.P., Spain: Armas de Guerra Godello from Bierzo D.O.P., Spain is a crisp, dry, and light-bodied white made from 100% Godello, sourced from vines between 45 and 65 years old grown on clay and slate soils at elevations between 450 and 600 metres. Fermented in stainless steel and given three months on fine lees, the wine delivers an aromatic, textured nose of white tea blossom, candied citrus peel, ripe mirabelle plum, and a cool sliver of wet slate minerality. Precise and refreshing on the palate with a tensile acidity and a clean, lingering finish, it is best served well chilled and can be enjoyed through 2028. The wine is produced by Vinos Guerra, one of the oldest wineries in Bierzo, founded in 1879 by visionary pharmacist Antonio Guerra, who recognised the potential of Bierzo's vineyards long before the region received its official Designation of Origin status in 1989. Notably, the estate controls roughly one third of all vineyard land in the entire Bierzo appellation, an extraordinary landholding that gives it unrivalled access to the region's finest fruit, and the wine earned a commendable medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2025. Drink: 2026-2028. 47864 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 89/100. May 16, 2026
Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewRombauer Carneros Chardonnay 2023, Carneros, California, United States: From Carneros, California, Rombauer 2023 Chardonnay is a dry, full-bodied 100% Chardonnay concentrated with ripe peach, red apple, melon, apple cake spice flavours with buttery and lemon curd notes generous and zesty on the palate. Elegant and youthful, enjoy it now through 2028 with a traditional roast chicken dinner. Rombauer was founded by Koerner Rombauer in 1980 and the winery has been making Chardonnay since 1982. Rombauer's great-aunt, Irma, also wrote the international bestseller, The Joy of Cooking. Drink: 2024-2029. 441089 14.60% XD 750 mL $69.95 Score: 91/100. November 2, 2024
Top Rated White Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewBeringer Private Reserve Chardonnay 2021, Napa Valley, California, United States: Beringer Private Reserve 2021 Chardonnay is produced from grapes sourced from Gamble Ranch in Oakville. Dry and full-bodied, this Napa Valley Chard from an Old Wente Clone, is fragrant with summer-kissed white florals, tropical fruit, fresh sliced pear, apples and lemon curd flavours, toasty and plushy on the palate. Drinking beautifully now but will continue to evolve in bottle for the next few years. Drink to 2030. Drink: 2023-2031. 26682 14.70% D 750 mL $79.95 Score: 95/100. November 4, 2023
Top Rated White Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewJ. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Paso Robles, California, United States: From the Paso Robles, California wine region, J. Lohr's Hilltop 2018 is a fragrant Cabernet Sauvignon-driven red wine blend with 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec splashed in. The wine was matured 18 months in French oak barriques (70% new). Look for ripe blueberry, cherry and dark plum aromas on the nose, full-bodied and smooth on the palate with ripe dark berry, cherry, mocha, dark spices, smoky and toasty on the palate. Pour with a grilled T-bone steak or roast beef dinner. This vintage was awarded Gold at the 2020 San Francisco International Wine Competition. Drink: 2021-2028. 686584 14.90% D 750 mL $49.95 Score: 90/100. April 1, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewObsidian Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Red Hills, Lake County, California, United States: From Red Hills, Lake County, California, Obsidian Ridge Vineyard 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, full-bodied and tannic Cab that needing some cellar time. Rich on the nose with black currant, dark cherry and flinty mineral aromas with balanced acidity on the palate. The wine was aged in Hungarian oak barrels for 18 months (40% new). Try it in 2026. Drink: 2023-2028. 544940 14.80% XD 750 mL $58.95 Score: 94/100. November 19, 2022
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review