Rymill Coonawarra Classic Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: From the Coonawarra, South Australia, Rymill 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a Coonawarra classic, rich with blackberry pie, cassis, anise, bramble leaf, mint and dried sweet tobacco flavours rich and concentrated on the palate. Tannins are firm. Lots to love on this lush, medium-bodied and plushy Cab with pleasantly grippy tannins. Enjoy it through 2033. Drink: 2024-2033. 10541 15.60% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 2, 2024 Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review

Wakefield Estate Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield Estate 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a terrific value red from cool-climate vineyards in the Clare Valley and Limestone Coast. Bold and flavourful, this full-bodied wine shows layers of dark berry, red cherry, roasted herbs, cocoa and a hint of toasted nuttiness, all supported by vibrant acidity and smooth tannins. Matured in French oak, it strikes a harmonious balance between richness and finesse. Pour with beef short ribs or grilled portobello mushrooms. Drink: 2025-2032. 744235 13% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 95/100. October 25, 2025 Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Schild 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 Review

Wakefield 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 15, 2025 Best Value Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review

Rymill Coonawarra Coonawarra Classic Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Coonawarra, South Australia, Australia: Rymill's 2020 Coonawarra Cabernet delivers classic cassis, mint and tobacco with violet and anise hints; integrated oak and firm tannins—serve with grilled steaks or aged cheddar. Drink: 2025-2035. 10541 15.60% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 15, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Wirra Wirra MVCG Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: Drink: 2025-2027. 45380 14.50% XD 750 mL  $24.95. December 5, 2025 Terrific Turkey Wine Full Review

Reif Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Niagara River, Niagara-on-the Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Drink: 2025-2031. 304162 13.50% XD 750 mL  $34.95. December 5, 2025 Best Beef Wine Full Review

Pelee Island Winery Blanc de Blanc, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A crisp, lively sparkling wine with aromas of green apple, lemon, and pear, lifted by delicate floral notes and a touch of brioche. It’s light-bodied, dry, and refreshing on the palate, with fine bubbles, bright acidity, and 12% alcohol creating an elegant balance. Serve it well-chilled to highlight its freshness and sparkle. Fascinating fact: Pelee Island Winery crafts this bubbly from estate-grown grapes on Canada’s southernmost island, where the moderating effect of Lake Erie helps preserve vibrant acidity—perfect for sparkling wine. Best enjoyed young within 2–3 years for its crisp, fruit-driven style. You can order this wine directly from the winery at www.peleeisland.com. 276170 11.80% D 750 mL  $13.95 Score: 90/100. September 13, 2025 Best Value White Wine. Full Review

Benjamin Bridge Méthode Classique Non Vintage Brut Sparkling, Gaspereau, Nova Scotia, Canada: Drink: 2025-2028. 528752 11.50% D 750 mL  $32.95. December 5, 2025 Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review

Veuve du Vernay Brut Sparkling, Burgundy, France: A terrific sparkling wine from the Burgundy region of France! Zesty and crisp with lovely notes of white peach and green apple. Perfect for seafood. Drink: 2024-2026. 32535 11% D 750 mL  $15.95 Score: 90/100. July 20, 2024 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Full Review

Janare 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 Review

Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno 2022, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: From Tenuta Sette Ponti, Oreno 2022 emerges as a Tuscan red of remarkable poise, instantly captivating the senses with a bouquet of delicate blossoms, nuanced mineral hints, and layers of rich, dark berries. Crafted from organically grown grapes in a blend of 45% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot, it offers a medium-plus structure where its intricately refined tannins envelop the palate with a silky, sumptuous texture. Although its current expression is impressive, further cellaring beyond 2028 will allow additional dimensions of balance and complexity to surface. For a memorable culinary experience, savour it alongside a hearty porchetta accented with fennel and sage, a rustic roasted eggplant parmesan, or a classic Tuscan tagliatta steak. Drink: 2025-2029. 735597 15% XD 750 mL  $99.95 Score: 100/100. November 15, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Carpineto Farnito Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: Carpineto's 2019 Farnito Cabernet Sauvignon offers black-currant and plum depth with cedar-and-iron minerality, Mediterranean herb lift and a long, spice-tinged oak finish. Try it with osso buco or grilled ribeye. Drink: 2025-2036. 996553 12.50% XD 750 mL  $33.95 Score: 94/100. October 25, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Famiglia Zingarelli Roccato Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Tuscany I.G.T., Italy: This wine weaves savory cured-meat and graphite notes with flashes of tart cherry and berry, underpinned by firm tannins and vibrant acidity. Try it alongside charcuterie boards or herb-roasted chicken. Drink: 2025-2030. 964130 14.50% XD 750 mL  $45.95 Score: 93/100. October 11, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Nikka 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 Review

Villa 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 Review

Jules 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 Review

Matahiwi 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 Review

Tohu 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 Review

Quinta 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 Review

Quinta 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 Review

Casa 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 Review

Graham Beck Méthode Cap Classique Brut Pinot Noir Chardonnay Rosé Sparkling, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Drink: 2025-2027. 175588 12% D 750 mL  $24.95. December 5, 2025 Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review

Thelema Sutherland Chardonnay 2021, Elgin W.O., South Africa: Thelema Mountain Vineyards Sutherland Chardonnay sees struck-flint minerality and blossom-fresh apple meld with soft-peach sweetness and cooling cucumber; a creamy sour-cream texture spills onto a bright lime-zest close. Try it alongside pan-seared halibut or mushroom risotto. Drink: 2025-2025. 146423 13.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 91/100. September 27, 2025 Cool Creamy Cheese Wine Full Review

Ken Forrester Pat's Garden Reserve 2020, Western Cape W.O., South Africa: Minty raspberry and crushed-strawberry aromas segue into a medium-bodied core of plush dark fruit and a hint of black-pepper grip, with grainy texture and balanced structure. Try it alongside roasted lamb chops or pepper-crusted beef. Drink: 2025-2030. 45169 14.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. September 27, 2025 Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Alvi'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 Review

Radford Dale Vinum Chenin Blanc 2023, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: Radford Dale's 2023 Vinum Chenin Blanc combines citrus and peach with leesy wax and pear-driven concentration, its punchy acidity and slight pithy finish giving old-vine complexity. Try it with roast chicken or apricot-stuffed quail. Drink: 2025-2027. 13338 12.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 25, 2025 Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full Review

Agramont 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 Review

Viña Olabarri Gran Reserva 2015, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: This wine unfurls a smoky bouquet of bacon-fat, dark chocolate and forest fruits, while mocha, espresso and anise dance over plush tannins to a long, spiced close. A great pairing for grilled steak or truffle mushroom pasta. Drink: 2025-2027. 329102 14% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. October 11, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Hacienda 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 Review

R. 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 Review

Cune Blanco Reserva 2020, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Cune's 2020 Blanco Reserva marries creamy, spice-tinged oak with Viura’s citrus and dried-floral notes, its chalky texture and lively acidity keeping the palate clean and balanced. Try it with grilled sea bass or roasted vegetables. Blanco Reserva marries creamy, spice-tinged oak with Viura’s citrus and dried-floral notes, its chalky texture and lively acidity keeping the palate clean and balanced. Drink: 2025-2027. 22446 13.50% D 750 mL  $27.95 Score: 93/100. October 25, 2025 Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full Review

Terra 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 15, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review

Lan Reserva 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: Drink: 2025-2031. 42929 13.50% XD 750 mL  $28.95. December 5, 2025 Plush Pork Wine Full Review

Ontañón 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 Review

Izarbe 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 Review

Muriel 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 Review

Elías Mora Crianza 2020, Toro D.O., Spain: Elías Mora Crianza 2020 is produced by Bodegas Elías Mora in San Román de Hornija, Toro wine region. Bodegas Elías Mora is a winery that was founded in 2000 by Victoria Benavides and Victoria Pariente. The two vineyards named after the two Victorias, are planted with pre-phylloxera Tinta de Toro vines and so have not been grafted. Fresh and fragrant with dark cherry, rich black plum, potpourri, wild herbs, expresso and smoky flavours on the palate, this is a powerful and elegant Toro crianza with satiny tannins and lingers on fresh, subtle spicy finish. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tank and after malolactic conversion, the wine was aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels. Enjoy it with veal chops from the grill. Drink: 2024-2030. 366815 15% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 16, 2024 Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review

Altanza Reserva 2017, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: From the Rioja wine region, Altanza Reserva 2017 is a great value, vegan-friendly Tempranillo and is dry, medium-plus-bodied and vibrant on the palate with black cherry, blackberry jam, bittersweet chocolate, olive tapenade, earthy and spicy notes framed by rich and mouth-coating tannins that linger on and on. A perfect pairing to an equally juicy roast of pork. Drink: 2024-2028. 208223 14% XD 750 mL  $21.95 Score: 90/100. November 16, 2024 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

La 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 Review

Puelles 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 Review

Ontañón 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 Review

Nivarius 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 Review

Pomelado 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 Review

Burgo Viejo Reserva 2020, Rioja D.O.C.A, Spain: This pure Tempranillo races forward on waves of macerated cherry, tart cranberry and succulent plum, all underpinned by firm tannins and vivid freshness. Its silky mid-palate leads to a seamless, resonant finish that lingers beautifully. Enjoy it with manchego-and-quince crostini or a smoky paprika-spiced pork loin. Drink: 2025-2026. 168823 13.50% XD 750 mL  $19.95 Score: 90/100. July 19, 2025 Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Castaño 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 Review

Vilarnau 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  $16.95 Score: 90/100. October 11, 2025 Best Value Sparkling Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full Review

Cuatro 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 Review

Torres 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 Review

Matilda 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 Review

Altanza Crianza 2018, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: From Bodegas Altanza, Altanza Crianza 2018 is a great value 100% estate-grown Tempranillo at $18. The wine was aged for one year in French oak casks, followed by two months in French oak foudres. Easy to enjoy and pretty yummy now with ripe strawberry, cherry, plum, spicy cigar box and dark chocolate flavours. Enjoy it with a variety of aged cheeses like Manchego and Comté. Drink or hold. Drink: 2023-2027. 114835 13.30% XD 750 mL  $18.95 Score: 90/100. September 2, 2023 Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Barón 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: 2024-2032. 642496 13.50% D 750 mL  $33.95 Score: 92/100. June 7, 2025 Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full Review

Cune 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 Review

Rombauer 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 Review

Beringer 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 Review

J. 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 Review

Obsidian 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