Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.
White Wine
Lawson's Dry Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2024, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand: Lawson's Dry Hills Reserve Sauvignon Blanc is an elegant, sustainably grown Marlborough white that goes well beyond the category's usual zesty simplicity, with a portion barrel-fermented in neutral French oak adding a subtle weight and complexity that sets it apart. It is dry, medium-bodied, and polished, with an aromatic nose of ripe honeydew, star fruit, white peach, and a bright thread of grapefruit zest, layered with a delicate herbal note and a cool, flinty stony quality on the finish. The palate is silky and salivating, with fine lees texture lending a satin-smooth mouthfeel and a long, clean finish that lingers satisfyingly. Serve it chilled and enjoy through 2028, as the barrel influence and lees work give it a quiet structure that will continue to develop. Winemakers Ross and Barbara Lawson have been growing grapes in Marlborough since 1980 and producing wine since 1992, and their winery holds a distinguished place as one of the Family of Twelve, a celebrated group of a dozen artisanal New Zealand wineries committed to showcasing the country's finest terroir-driven wines. Pair it with a golden grilled chicken breast stuffed with ham, gruyere, and Dijon mustard, where the wine's bright acidity and fruit generosity will cut through the richness beautifully, or enjoy it alongside chilled shrimp and avocado salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a light, vibrant warm-weather meal. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: grilled Dijon chicken stuffed with ham and cheese, salads topped with grilled shrimp, fish tacos. Drink: 2026 - 2028 47921 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 93/100. April 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
Monte da Ravasqueira Coutada Velha 2022, Alentejo, Portugal: This wine offers outstanding value, with richness and complexity that stand out. The colour is a deep ruby, and the palate is balanced with lively acidity, dry tannins, and a long, persistent finish. Aromas of dark cherry, plum, blackberry, cassis, anise, leather, tobacco leaves, fig, and violets are evident on the nose. It has been matured in oak for 8 months and is ready to enjoy now or can be cellared for 3-5 years. This wine pairs beautifully with roasted porchetta sandwiches or grilled steak. Highly recommended for its quality and price. Food pairings: roasted porchetta sandwiches, grilled chorizo, grilled vegetables. Drink: 2025 - 2028 11152 13.1% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 90/100. April 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart