Domaine De Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem M. Chapoutier 2012

Côtes De Roussillon-Villages, Midi A.C., France

Complex, mysterious and spectacular! Full-bodied, juicy, layered and smooth. Endless finish. I love the Braille label, plus the name includes a nice dose of Latin: perfect teacher's pet gift for end of the year (or perhaps now to lock in those 90s). Aromas of baked black fruit yet dry. So very delicious. Wish I knew the Latin phrase for that ... ultimum delici vinum! Taut, robust and ready to rock when you are! This full-on, take-me-on red wine has it all. Black fruit, smoke, mocha and dark spice on the finish, which is loooooooong.

Alcohol: 14%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2014-2020

Gorgeous Gift Wine

Price: $25.45
Score: 95/100
LCBO: 643239

Napa Cellars Merlot 2012

Napa Valley, California, United States

Mocha and dark chocolate on the nose with luscious black fruit unfolding the palate and mouth-filling juiciness. This wine was aged in 100% French oak, 46% of which was new. There were 988 barrels produced of this wine. A intense, deep Merlot offering dark fruit and toasty oak. Finishes long and smooth with blackberry and cedar smoke. Perfect for a rare, juicy steak tonight.

Alcohol: 14.1%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2013-2018

Best Beef Wine

Price: $24.95
Score: 90/100
LCBO: 161299

 

Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir 2006

Marlborough, New Zealand

A rich, layered pinot with more heft then some other New Zealand pinots. Lovely notes of black cherries, vanilla and wild mushrooms.

Alcohol: 14%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: Now

Plush Pork Wine

Price: $19.95
Score: 90/100
LCBO: 66803

 

Mark West Pinot Noir 2012

Santa Lucia Highlands, California, United States

A smooth, supple Californian Pinot Noir with lots of toasty oak, mocha, espresso and coffee on the nose from aging in French oak barrels. Silky tannins. The winery is situated above the Salinas Valley. Pair with coffee-rubbed pork chops or a pepper steak. Yum!

Alcohol: 13.8%
Sweetness: Dry
Drink: 2013-2017

Best Beef Wine

Price: $17.99
Score: 88/100
LCBO: 83329

 

Beaulieu Vineyard Coastal Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

California, United States

Great value for this full-bodied, supple and smooth Cabernet Sauvignon from California. Great for casual gatherings involving pizza or hamburgers.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Sweetness: Extra Dry
Drink: 2013-2017

Heavenly Hamburger Wine

Price: $10.95
Score: 87/100
LCBO: 569871