Catena High Mountain Vines Chardonnay 2022, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Catena High Mountain Vines 2022 Chardonnay was produced from sustainably grown grapes sourced from four vineyards that are 950 to 1,450 metres above sea level. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and zesty, look for ripe peach, pineapple, lemon zest, nutty almond and vanilla flavours creamy and textured on the palate. About 60% of the wine was aged in French oak barrels for 10 months while the remainder was brought up in stainless-steel tanks. Drink through 2025. Drink: 2023-2026. 918805 14% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 94/100. October 5, 2024
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewClos de los Siete 2020, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: Produced by Michel Rolland, Clos de los Siete 2020 is a medium-plus-bodied and juicy red wine blend of 55% Malbec, 16% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Syrah and 5% in Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc grapes. Fragrant with flinty mineral aromas, wild herbs, earthy violets, ripe blackberry and red currant flavours fresh and sleek on the palate, this beautifully crafted Mendoza red finishes long, supple and silky with dark chocolate and vanilla notes. Enjoy it through 2029. Drink: 2024-2030. 622571 14.50% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 95/100. November 16, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewGen del Alma Ji Ji Ji Gen Fuerza Tranquila Malbec Pinot Noir 2022, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina: The delicate and fragrant 2022 JI JI JI is a balanced blend of Malbec and Pinot Noir, crafted with minimal intervention. Fermented using whole clusters through carbonic maceration, it showcases vibrant floral aromas and lively fruit notes, with a light to medium body and silky tannins. Bottled without oak influence, it retains a crisp, invigorating character that's utterly enjoyable. Best enjoyed between 2023 and 2027 alongside grilled salmon or a fresh beet and goat cheese salad. Drink: 2025-2027. 38494 13% XD 750 mL $20.95 Score: 92/100. March 4, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewKoskil Pinot Noir 2022, Patagonia, Argentina: From the Patagonia wine region in Argentina, the 2022 Koskil Pinot Noir is a dry, medium-bodied red that offers fresh red cherry, wild strawberry, and red berry notes with subtle spice and delicate herbal undertones. The wine is silky on the palate, with velvety tannins that add to its smooth texture. A fantastic value, this wine is perfect for current enjoyment paired with pork tenderloin off the grill or grilled chicken breast, or can be cellared until 2029. Drink: 2025-2028. 34816 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 93/100. April 26, 2025
Plush Pork Wine Full Review3 Rings Shiraz 2022, South Australia, Australia: 3 Rings 2022 Shiraz from the Barossa Valley is a smooth, crowd-pleasing red that combines excellent value with bold character. This dry, medium-plus-bodied wine presents vibrant dark berry, floral, nutty, and cocoa notes, all framed by supple tannins and a silky texture. It’s approachable now and will continue to evolve until 2030. Pair it with a garlic and rosemary-infused roast leg of lamb or grilled steak for an enhanced experience. Drink: 2025-2032. 15495 14.60% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 92/100. April 26, 2025
Heavenly Hamburger Wine Full ReviewThompson Steer Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, South Australia, Australia: This Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon showcases a deep crimson hue with touches of purple, exuding rich dark fruit aromas and a prominent oak influence. The wine is robust, with a well-balanced structure of fine tannins that complement its bold fruit character. Its depth and complexity make it a perfect match for hearty dishes like grilled steak or slow-cooked lamb. A true standout from the region. Drink: 2025-2027. 41313 14% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewMcHenry Hohnen Rocky Road Shiraz 2022, Western Australia, Australia: McHenry Hohnen Rocky Road Shiraz 2022 is a bold and characterful red from Margaret River, showing off its deep violet colour and expressive aromatics. Bursting with tangy blackberries, mulberries and a twist of cracked pepper, the wine also reveals earthy mineral nuances and hints of clove and star anise. Full-bodied with a touch of rustic charm, the tannins are plush and mouth-coating, lending structure without overwhelming the vibrant fruit. Pair with grilled lamb chops or a lentil and root vegetable bake through 2030. Drink: 2025-2030. 42064 13.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. April 26, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewWakefield Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Wakefield's Jaraman 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry, full-bodied wine with captivating aromas of ripe red cherry, black currant, dark chocolate, and subtle oak spice, complemented by refreshing mint notes. The palate is vibrant and flavourful, with juicy fruit intensity, fine, velvety tannins, and a smooth, approachable finish. Enjoy now or cellar through the end of the decade. Pair it with herb-crusted lamb chops or grilled portobello mushrooms. Drink: 2025-2027. 142398 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 95/100. September 27, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewTyrrell's Semillon 2023, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia: The 2023 Tyrrell's Hunter Valley Series Semillon, from New South Wales, is a dry, medium-bodied white that shines with its vibrant apple, sun-warmed hay, and delicate herbal notes. The wine also reveals hints of lanolin, honeyed melon, lemon peel, and a touch of minerality, delivering a smooth and lively mouthfeel, all with a refreshing 10% abv. This expressive wine is best enjoyed chilled and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken skewers or a light seafood pasta. Drink: 2025-2027. 632034 10.60% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewXanadu Circa 77 Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia: This wine is elegantly crafted, with an inviting nose of blackcurrant, dried herbs, floral notes, clove, and toasted nuts. On the palate, it impresses with a smooth texture, supported by fine, powdery tannins, and a structure that is both firm and supple. Enjoyable now, it will continue to evolve beautifully. Pairs equally well with roasted lamb or a beef stew. Drink: 2025-2028. 18344 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewYalumba Galway Vintage Shiraz 2021, Barossa, Australia: So perfumed, this wine is delicious with notes of Black Doris plum, blackberry, violet, clove, and a touch of toasted nuts. The palate is richly textured, showcasing excellent weight and concentrated ripe fruit flavors. Silky and well-balanced with supple tannins, it is a wine that is a delight to savour. Enjoy now or cellar through 2028. Drink: 2025-2028. 41311 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 21, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewChateau Tanunda Grand Barossa Shiraz 2022, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa 2022 Shiraz is great value at $23. Dry, full-bodied and intensely fragrant with blue florals, blackberry, toasty oak and anise spice wrapped up in smoky Madagascar vanilla, this Grand Barossa is generous, silky, fresh and rounded on t he palate. Enjoy it through 2034. Drink: 2024-2033. 20884 14.90% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 94/100. November 16, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSidewood Shiraz 2021, Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia: Sidewood 2021 Shiraz is a beautifully fragrant and elegant red with aromas of dark cherry, dark berry and a touch of white pepper spice. The wine is medium-bodied and smooth, showcasing fine herbal notes and its silky texture on the palate. It spent 18 months maturing in French oak barrels, which adds a subtle depth to its rich fruit character. A fantastic option now, but with the potential to evolve in bottle. Enjoy it with roast pheasant and other game meats. Drink: 2025-2043. 446146 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 94/100. August 16, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewDandelion Menagerie of the Barossa Grenache Shiraz Mataro 2022, Barossa, South Australia, Australia: Dandelion's Menagerie Of The Barossa 2022 is an excellent value Barossa Valley GSM at $22. Dry, medium-bodied and a juicy blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro, it is fragrant with rose petal, crushed raspberry, cedar brush spice, savoury herbs with a kiss of mint and textured dusty tannins on the palate. Enjoy it through 2032. Drink: 2024-2032. 399899 14.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. November 2, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewWakefield Jaraman Shiraz 2022, Clare Valley Mclaren Vale, South Australia, Australia: From Clare Valley McLaren Vale, South Australia, Wakefield Jaraman 2022 Shiraz is robust, youthful and mouth filling with ripe dark cherry, blackberry, red plum, baking spice, chocolate, mint, anise and cedar brush spice flavours juicy on the palate. Tannins are structured and firm. Big, bold, juicy and very nicely balanced, enjoy it through 2034. Drink: 2025-2033. 377036 14.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. May 10, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewZonte's Footstep Lake Doctor Shiraz 2021, Langhorne Creek, South Australia,, Australia: Zonte's Footstep Lake Doctor 2021 is a great value vegan-friendly Shiraz. Grapes for this vintage were sourced from Langhorne Creek, South Aus. and the wine is rich and enticing with dark berry, earthy violets, meaty and cracked pepper spice plushy and generous on the palate. Finishes long and silky and tannins are fine-grained and velvety. Pretty terrific now, enjoy it through 2033. Drink: 2024-2033. 72975 14.50% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. December 14, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewSister's Run Bethlehem Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Gomersal, Barossa, Australia: Sister's Run Bethlehem Block 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon from Gomersal showcases a bold, full-bodied profile with layers of cassis, ripe dark berry fruits, dried herbs, and a touch of mint. Hints of dark chocolate and warm spices add depth to the wine’s smooth and plush texture. The structured tannins provide excellent balance, making it a perfect pairing for a juicy grilled steak. A standout Barossa red, it is drinking beautifully now and has the potential to evolve further. Drink: 2025-2028. 360636 14.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 21, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewKnappstein Clare Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia: Knappstein 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is excellent value at $20. Dry, medium-plus-bodied and fragrant with blue florals, black currant, dark cherry, green olive, cake baking spice, this Cab is so expressive and elegant on the palate. So flavoursome with precise and pure fruit flavours, it is excellent now through 2031. Drink: 2024-2031. 23905 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. September 13, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewMegalomaniac Narcissist Riesling 2021, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Megalomaniac Narcissist 2021 Riesling is crisp, juicy and, of course, expressive with ripe pear, apple, minerally and petrol notes. The wine is off-dry and balanced with racy acidity and can take on any rich holiday dish because, well, it just can! Drink: 2023-2027. 67587 10.90% M 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. August 10, 2024
Best Value White Wine. Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewOrganized Crime Wild Ferment Riesling 2021, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: From Beamsville Bench on the Niagara Escarpment, Organized Crime 2021 Riesling is an exemplary exercise in natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts and maturation in venerable oak casks. This wine dazzles with its profusion of blossom and herb accents, coupled with vibrant notes of lemon and tart lime, crisp green apple, a hint of waxy character, and an undercurrent of flint-like flavour. On the palate, it dazzles with lively, brisk acidity and concentrated layers of mature apple, succulent pear, and zesty citrus nuances, making it enjoyable now yet promising further evolution in bottle. An outstanding value, its versatility makes it a delightful partner for seared scallops with a citrus beurre blanc or a spiced pork belly reduction. Drink: 2025-2030. 11952 10.90% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. May 10, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewPerez Cruz Piedra Seca Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Maipo Valley, Maipo Andes D.O., Chile: From Maipo Valley, Perez Cruz Piedra Seca 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a sustainably produced second wine of Pircas, crafted from grapes grown under the Maipo Andes D.O. Predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc (5%), it unveils enticing aromas of deep cherry, bramble leaf, mint, and wild herbs. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and succulent, complemented by tannins that offer a pleasingly tactile structure. Perfect with grilled burgers or ribs, it’s enjoyable through 2035. Drink: 2025-2034. 36167 14.50% XD 750 mL $22.95 Score: 94/100. May 10, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewMontes Alpha Pinot Noir 2022, Zapallar D.O., Chile: Montes Alpha Special Cuvée Pinot Noir 2022 from the coastal Zapallar vineyard is an expressive Chilean red, bursting with lifted red fruit, blood orange zest, and subtle savoury and mineral undertones. Medium-plus in body with a bright, floral perfume and a silky texture, this Pinot shows impressive elegance and balance. Fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity carry the wine through to a long, spice-tinged finish. Enjoy it now with lamb and dried apricot stew or veal Marsala, or cellar confidently through 2028. Drink: 2025-2027. 19288 14.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. April 26, 2025
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewFalernia Titón Single Vineyard Reserva Syrah 2019, Elqui Valley, Chile: Falernia Titón Single Vineyard Riserva 2019 Syrah is produced from grapes sourced from block 16 of the Titon Vineyard. Look for bright red cherry, dried wild herbs and pepper spice flavours intense and long on this flavoursome Chilean Syrah reminiscent of northern Rhône reds. Enjoy it through 2029. Drink: 2024-2029. 27198 14.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. November 2, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewMorandé Vitis Única Pinot Noir 2022, Casablanca Valley D.O., Chile: A quintessential Pinot Noir from Casablanca, showcasing a balanced profile free of overly sweet or tart nuances. Aromas of earthy red fruits and damp woodland set the tone. Medium-weight on the palate, this offers lively acidity and structured velvety tannins. The finish is impressively lengthy, refreshing, and full of vitality. Exceptionally crafted, this wine is enjoyable now but will continue to develop beautifully until 2029. Savour it with herb-roasted duck or grilled lamb chops. Drink: 2025-2029. 42111 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. February 1, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Delightful Duck Wine Full ReviewArboleda Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Aconcagua Valley D.O., Chile: Produced by Eduardo Chadwick, Arboleda 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from sustainably grown grapes sourced from Las Vertientes, mid-Coastal Mountain Range. The grapes in this area are treated to cooling winds from the Pacific Ocean giving this dry, medium-bodied wine fresh and rich flavours of dark cherry, blackberry, sweet and spicy dried tobacco leaf, chocolate and mint. The wine is framed with fine-grained tannins. Drink or hold through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 606764 14% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. April 26, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewEcheverría Family Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Curicó Valley, Chile: This 2019 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon stands out for its exceptional elegance and balance. Sourced from vineyards planted in the 1970s in the Molina zone of the Curicó Valley, it delivers a fresh and delicate profile, unlike many overly ripe and heavy wines from the vintage. Aromas of black cherry and mocha are complemented by nuanced notes of black fruit, spice, and a touch of cold black tea and an herb-like fragrance. The tannins are soft and refined with crisp acidity providing freshness. A smooth, full-bodied wine with a rich, vanilla-spiced finish perfect with steak from the grill. Drink: 2025-2027. 737 14% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. February 1, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewEmiliana Novas Stellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah Carignan 2022, Maule Valley, Chile: Emiliana Novas Stellar Selection 2022 is an exceptional value, dry, full-bodied red wine blend produced from organically grown grapes. This vegan-friendly wine combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Carignan, showcasing delightful wild cherry, red berry and garrigue herb aromas. The palate reveals textured, flinty mineral notes with a juicy, lingering finish. With excellent tension and fine tannins, this wine is a great option grilled meats or a charcuterie board. Enjoy it through 2027. Drink: 2025-2027. 35672 13.50% XD 750 mL $17.95 Score: 94/100. February 1, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Terrific Turkey Wine Full ReviewBaron Philippe de Rothschild Tierra Sagrada Vigno Carignan 2020, Maule Valley, Chile: This wine is a bold, flavour-packed red brimming with dark cherry, blackberry, and graphite notes, with a delicate touch of violets. It presents a near-full body on the palate, showcasing dense, velvety tannins that create a smooth, integrated mouthfeel. Fresh and vibrant, it offers a focused and intense profile. After spending 14 months in seasoned barrels and an additional eight months in bottle, it’s ready to drink now or cellar for further development. Pair it with roasted duck breast or grilled steak with a rosemary garlic rub. Drink: 2025-2028. 41880 13% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. February 18, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewChâteau Saint-Roch Chimères Grenache Carignan Syrah Côtes Du Roussillon-Villages 2022, Côtes Du Roussillon, Midi A.P., France: Château Saint-Roch Chimères 2022, crafted by winemaker Jean-Marc Lafage, offers exceptional value at $20. This dry, medium-plus-bodied Côtes du Roussillon-Villages blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan is aromatic with dried thyme and Mediterranean garrigue. The palate is rich and flavourful, featuring black cherry, anise, baking spices, and a touch of chocolate. Enjoy it with grilled lamb skewers or roasted vegetable ratatouille. Drink: 2025-2028. 119354 15% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. August 16, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewChâteau Hyot 2020, Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux A.C., France: From the Castillon Côtes De Bordeaux wine region, Château Hyot 2020 is a great value Merlot-driven red wine blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc in support. Produced by Alain Aubert, prop., the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied and rich with dark plum, cassis, pepper spice and flinty mineral notes from beginning to end. Tannins are fine and firm, but the wine has the structure, acidity and fruit to handle it. Give it some time to marry and mellow. An amazing value Bordeaux at $16 to drink from 2025. Drink: 2025-2028. 63537 13% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 92/100. December 14, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewChâteau de Nages Héritage Costières de Nîmes 2022, Costières de Nîmes, Rhône A.P., France: Produced by Michel Gassier, Château de Nages Héritage 2022 is a dry, medium-bodied, Old Vines, Grenache-driven red wine blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre and 15% Syrah grapes. Perfumed with bright red berry, blueberry, plum, cracked black pepper spice, this Costières De Nîmes red finishes long on an earthy and soft citrus note. Tannins are fine-grained and velvety. Very nicely done as is its price point at $23. Drink: 2024-2030. 40964 15% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 93/100. November 2, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewDomaine D'ansignan Petites Grappes 2021, Côtes Du Roussillon A.P., France: This Grenache-Carignan blend is a lively, medium-bodied red brimming with redcurrant, tart cherry, and a savoury touch of dried herbs. Its bright acidity and fine tannins lend energy and focus, while subtle spice notes add lift to the fruit-forward core. Silky in texture and refreshingly precise on the finish, it's a polished and expressive wine that shines now. Enjoy with grilled Mediterranean vegetables or lamb kofta. Drink: 2025-2025. 40370 12% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. April 26, 2025
Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewI Sodi Chianti Classico Riserva 2019, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva offers exceptional value for the price. Its aromatic profile is lively and engaging, showcasing dark fruit, olive, smoky nuances, and a hint of pencil shavings. There’s an ample amount of oak spice and tar, which might feel overwhelming for some. The wine finishes with a sleek, refined character. This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo is perfect for pairing with hearty pasta dishes or roasted lamb. Enjoy it now through 2027. Drink: 2025-2027. 213074 13% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full ReviewLeonardo Da Vinci Monnalisa Sangiovese 2021, Emilia-Romagna D.O.C., Italy: Hailing from Romagna but echoing the character of its Tuscan cousins, this Sangiovese offers lively red berry fruit layered with earthy herbs and a subtle rustic edge. The grapes are rooted in the same region that nurtured Leonardo da Vinci’s early years, whose family grew wine grapes in the village of Vinci. A dynamic and expressive red, it’s ideal with wild boar ragù or rosemary-roasted eggplant. Drink: 2025-2026. 39167 15% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 92/100. April 26, 2025
Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewTenuta Rapitalà Vigna Casalj Alcamo Classico 2022, Sicily D.O.C., Italy: This 100% Catarratto Lucido is made by fermenting in stainless steel and then ageing in sizeable barrels over three months, resulting in a radiant, pale-gold hue. The nose unfolds with enticing aromas of sun-kissed peach, gentle meadow blossoms, hints of citrus zest, and a trace of almond, evoking a timeless elegance. On the palate, it delivers a lively, well-structured experience with layers of orchard fruit and a delicate, briny accent that carries through to a persistent finish. A superb match for lemon-butter scallops or herbed grilled sea bass, this wine is delightful to sip until 2027. Drink: 2025-2028. 39654 12.50% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 93/100. May 10, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewLeone de Castris Negroamaro Riserva Salice Salentino 2019, Salice Salentino, Puglia D.O.C., Italy: Leone de Castris Riserva 2019 is an excellent value full-bodied Negroamaro from the Puglia wine region at $23. So fragrant and juicy, this is a robust red with rich dark cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate and flinty mineral flavours vibrant and lingering on the palate with cocoa powder tannins. An outstanding Negroamaro to drink through 2028. Drink: 2024-2028. 597534 13.50% D 750 mL $22.95 Score: 92/100. November 2, 2024
Best Value Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full ReviewMazzei Ser Lapo Chianti Classico 2021, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: This Chianti Classico Riserva from Mazzei is a dynamic and precise wine, brimming with vibrant aromas of wild currants, Morello cherries, and herbal spices. The medium-bodied structure is supported by fine tannins, offering both intensity and energy, with juicy forest fruit notes melding seamlessly with dried herbs. It’s a beautifully balanced wine with a focused, crisp finish, promising enjoyment through 2030 and beyond. Pair it with a hearty Italian dish like lasagne, veal Parmigiano, or a rich mushroom risotto for the perfect match. Drink: 2025-2030. 288530 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 94/100. April 26, 2025
Best Beef Wine Full ReviewNestore Bosco Montelpulciano d'Abruzzo 2020, Abruzzo D.O.P., Italy: This wine opens with inviting aromas of gentle spice and dark berries, accented by a subtle dried-herb character. Generous in weight, it offers a supple and smooth texture through the mid-palate, while refined tannins build toward a well-defined, lingering finish. While not overly intricate, it is well-balanced and elegantly composed. Try it with grilled lamb chops, savoury wild mushroom risotto, or spaghetti Bolognese. Drink: 2025-2027. 39282 13% XD 750 mL $16.95 Score: 92/100. February 18, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Perfect Pasta and Tomato Sauce Wine Full ReviewTasca d'Almerita D'Almerita Regaleali Nero d'Avola 2022, Sicily D.O.C, Italy: This Nero d'Avola is vibrant and fruit-forward, offering ripe cherry, currant and wild herb aromas, complemented by a hint of spice. It’s a medium-bodied wine with smooth tannins and a refreshing, crisp finish. The bright berry notes provide a lively, yet mellow character, making it a delightful choice now to enjoy with a roasted porchetta sandwich or a grilled steak. Drink: 2025-2027. 39660 13% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. February 1, 2025
Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full ReviewRocca delle Macìe Riserva Chianti Classico 2021, Tuscany D.O.C.G., Italy: Rocca delle Macìe Riserva 2021 Chianti Classico is produced from sustainably grown Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Dry, medium-bodied, this is a mouthwatering red wine blend with dark cherry, spiced plum, earthy, meaty and menthol flavours supple and long on the palate. The wine was aged in French oak barrels for 24 months. If having tonight, decant it for a few hours and enjoy it with a meaty lasagne dish, or try it from 2026 when it will be showing its best through 2040. Drink: 2026-2040. 930966 13% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 94/100. March 29, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full ReviewVilla Maria Wairau Valley Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: From the Wairau Valley, Marlborough, South Island, Villa Maria Reserve 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is produced from sustainably grown grapes. Dry, medium-bodied and showing pristine fruit flavours of passionfruit, mango, gooseberry, lemon-lime zest, grassy and herbal notes fresh and vibrant on the palate, it is drinking beautifully now through 2030. Drink: 2024-2030. 536201 12.50% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 95/100. November 16, 2024
Top Rated White Wine. Profound Pasta and Cream Sauce Wine Full ReviewPaddy Borthwick Paper Road Pinot Noir 2022, Wairarapa, New Zealand: Paddy Borthwick’s Paper Road 2021 Pinot Noir from the Wairarapa region delivers an enticingly fragrant and juicy profile. The nose is expressive with dark cherry, ripe plum, and hints of cedar brush spice, intertwined with fine garden herbs. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine is succulent and smooth, its fine-grained tannins adding texture and depth. The finish is silky with a touch of spice, making for a beautifully complex and savoury wine. Drink: 2025-2026. 179770 13.50% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 92/100. January 21, 2025
Top Rated Red Wine. Luscious Lamb Wine Full ReviewMount Riley Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc 2024, Marlborough, New Zealand: Bursting with intensity, this Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is a showcase of vibrant aromatics, with enticing notes of gooseberry, passionfruit and green apple crunch, accented by a hint of kaffir lime. The palate delivers exceptional purity and concentration, layered with fresh melon, zesty citrus, and a whisper of fine herbs. Bright and irresistibly refreshing, it finishes long and mouthwatering. Enjoy its expressive charm now or savor through 2027. Drink: 2025-2027. 447425 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 95/100. January 21, 2025
Top Rated White Wine. Charming Grilled Chicken Wine Full ReviewThornbury Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Thornbury 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent value Marlborough SB at $18. Vibrant and fragrant with fresh gooseberry, creamy tropical fruits, fresh cut grass, fine herb, minerally and citrus zest flavours fresh and intense on the palate, it is terrific now through 2026. Drink: 2024-2026. 734798 13.50% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 92/100. May 10, 2025
Best Value White Wine. Sensational Shellfish Wine Full ReviewUrlar The Mediator Gladstone Pinot Noir 2020, Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand: Urlar The Mediator Gladstone 2020 is an intense and perfumed Pinot Noir from the Wairarapa. Fragrant with dark cherry, salumi, baking and pepper spice flavours silky-smooth on the palate, the wine is both elegant and complex. Tannins are fine-grained and this North Island, New Zealand PN is drinking beautifully now through 2026. Drink: 2024-2026. 37396 13.50% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. November 2, 2024
Top Rated Red Wine. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full ReviewRapaura Springs Rohe Pinot Noir 2021, Awatere Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand: The 2021 Rapaura Springs Rohe Pinot Noir, sourced from a single vineyard in the Awatere Valley, offers a captivating expression of fruit purity and refined complexity. It opens with delicate aromas of cherry, leather, and red berries, complemented by hints of earthy spice and nutty nuances. The palate is medium-plus-bodied, with a silky texture and a long, smooth finish that lingers with elegance. Best enjoyed now or cellared through to 2029. Pair it with roasted chicken, veal cutlets, or a margherita pizza. Drink: 2025-2029. 25804 13% XD 750 mL $27.95 Score: 94/100. April 26, 2025
Remarkable Roast Chicken Wine Full ReviewGraham Beck Méthode Cap Classique Brut 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: 2025-2027. 175588 12% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 92/100. May 10, 2025
Top Rated Sparkling Wine. Scrumptious Seafood Wine Full ReviewRadford Dale Vinum Chenin Blanc 2022, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: From the Stellenbosch wine region, Radford Dale Vinum 2022 is a vegan-friendly Chenin Blanc produced from sustainably grown grapes from 40-plus year old bush vines. Look for rich ripe pear, melon, stone fruit and soft orange citrus flavours on this zesty and expressive Chenin. Amazing value at $20, enjoy it now through 2026. Drink: 2024-2027. 13338 12.50% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 93/100. October 5, 2024
Top Rated White Wine. Glorious Game Wine Full Review