Trinchero Family Estates Mario's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Napa Valley, California

A full-bodied, complex Californian red wine with aromas of elegant cassis, blackberry and smoky oak. This wine is named in honour of founder Mario Trinchero. This is a 13-acre acre vineyard in St. Helena, Napa Valley. A benchmark Cabernet for Napa, and that's saying a lot! Pair with rare filet mignon.

Alcohol: 15.2%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2013-2020

Gorgeous Gift Wine

Price: $64.95
Score: 94/100
LCBO: 399600

 

Jackson-Triggs Proprietors' Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2012

 

Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A.

Solid Niagara Chardonnay for the price point with surprising acidity mid-palate. Toasty oak and green apple brightness. Try with roast chicken.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2014-2018

Charming Grilled Chicken Wine

Price: $19.95
Score: 80/100
LCBO: 593996

 

Simi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California

A full-bodied, savoury Californian Cabernet that needs to be decanted 1-2 hours before serving. Attractive notes of black fruit and smoke. Pair with a rare steak.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2014-2018

Best Beef Wine

Price: $21.95
Score: 90/100
LCBO: 25221

 

Cafe Culture Pinotage 2011

Western Cape, South Africa

Love wine? Love coffee? Then this is your wine. Smells and tastes uncannily like coffee in a good way. Warm and rich, but don't add milk and sugar.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2013-2015

Plush Pork Wine

Price: $12.95
Score: 87/100
LCBO: 292466

 

Beaulieu Vineyard BV Beaurouge Named Varietal Blends-Red 2010

California

A gloriously rich, full-bodied red wine that's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah and other grapes. This will do well in the cellar, but why wait? Decant for 1-2 hours and try this with a rare, juicy steak tonight.

Alcohol: 14.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2014-2020

Best Beef Wine

Price: $24.95
Score: 93/100
LCBO: 363531