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Carolyn Evans Hammond: Our critic says these two under-$10 red wines at the LCBO are sure to sell out

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/29 .. -red-wines-at-the-lcbo-are-sure-to-sell-out.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 18:16 GMT by Toronto Star
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TL;DR:
The Toronto Star’s wine column has spotlighted two budget‑friendly reds that are both surprisingly good and comfortably priced under $10 at the LCBO. The picks – a 2015 Côtes du Rhône from Bouchard Père & Fils and a 2018 Red Zinfandel from the California‑based Lodi Vineyards – come with generous tasting notes, suggested pairings, and handy links to LCBO product pages. Whether you’re a seasoned wine‑sniffer or a casual sampler, the article gives you a clear, concise reason to check them out next time you’re hunting for value in the wine aisle.

1. Why “under $10” matters in the LCBO

The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) is a provincial staple for wine lovers, but the sheer volume of products can be intimidating. For many, the price is the first gatekeeper, and the “under $10” category has emerged as a hotspot for quality‑to‑price seekers. In the article, the critic explains that this price point is no longer a badge of “budget” but a badge of smart buying – a place where a well‑made wine can deliver more than its tag.

The column also touches on the LCBO’s own pricing strategy: the board often rounds prices to the nearest 5¢ and offers periodic promotions that can lower the cost of a bottle further. The writer advises readers to check the LCBO’s online catalog or their app, where you can filter by price, region, and even “critics’ picks” – a useful feature for those who want to follow trusted recommendations.

2. The first star of the lineup: Bouchard Père & Fils Côtes du Rhône

Product details
2015 vintage
0.75 L bottle
* $9.90 at the LCBO (price may vary by store location)

Why it’s a hit
The critic describes the wine as “a classic expression of the Rhône valley’s character.” It’s a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, delivering a smooth, medium‑bodied palate with soft tannins and an approachable finish. The bouquet is a mix of ripe red cherries, plum, and a hint of black pepper, rounded off with subtle floral undertones.

Taste notes
- Nose: ripe red fruit (cherry, raspberry), a whisper of spice and a touch of earth.
- Palate: juicy, fruit‑forward, with a hint of oak that adds a silky texture.
- Finish: lingering fruit, a mild peppery kick, and an overall balanced, easy‑drinking character.

Pairings
The critic recommends pairing it with classic comfort foods such as a hearty meatloaf, pasta with a tomato‑based sauce, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich. For a lighter option, try it with roasted chicken or a fresh tomato salad.

How to buy
The column links directly to the LCBO product page (https://www.lcbo.com/en-ca/wine/2015-bouchard-pere-et-fils-cotes-du-ronne). The page includes a 4‑star rating from the Star’s wine panel and a short tasting note summary. The bottle is available in most LCBO stores across the province; you can also order it online for pickup or delivery.

3. The second star: Lodi Vineyards Red Zinfandel

Product details
2018 vintage
0.75 L bottle
* $9.70 at the LCBO (price may vary by store location)

Why it’s a hit
While the Côtes du Rhône is a European classic, the Lodi Zinfandel brings a “California twist” to the conversation. The critic notes the wine’s “bold, jammy fruit flavors and a hint of spice that is both exotic and familiar.” It’s a good example of how the LCBO’s Canadian shelves host a diverse range of terroirs.

Taste notes
- Nose: deep, dark fruit (blackberries, plums), with undertones of dried herbs and a faint smoky note.
- Palate: full‑bodied, slightly velvety, with generous tannins and a subtle earthy finish.
- Finish: a lingering, almost sweet echo of blackberry, balanced by a slight spice and mineral undertone.

Pairings
The critic suggests a “classic grilled steak” or “BBQ pulled pork” for a robust pairing. The wine also pairs well with cheese plates featuring aged cheddar, gouda, or a strong blue cheese. For a lighter meal, a mushroom risotto or a tomato‑based pasta works beautifully.

How to buy
A clickable link to the LCBO’s page is included (https://www.lcbo.com/en-ca/wine/2018-lodi-vineyards-red-zinfandel). The page shows the bottle’s rating, a brief review, and the exact in‑store availability. The critic notes that the wine is part of a “small-batch” release, so it may be worth visiting the store in advance to secure a bottle.

4. Additional resources and follow‑ups

• Critic’s profile: The article includes a link to the critic’s own page on the Star website (https://www.thestar.com/author/...). Readers can explore other wine picks, tasting notes, and commentary on LCBO policy changes.
• LCBO’s “Wine Explorer” feature: The critic highlights this tool, which lets you search by price, region, or even a critic’s rating. It’s particularly handy for discovering more under‑$10 gems.
• Related articles: The column references a companion piece on “Best wines under $20 in Ontario” (link provided in the Star’s archive). Those interested can get a broader sense of what else is worth buying in that price bracket.

5. Bottom line

The article serves as both a practical guide and a taste test for two solid, affordable reds that prove a great bottle can come in a modest price tag. By coupling concise tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and direct links to the LCBO, the critic provides a one‑stop resource for readers wanting to buy wisely without sacrificing quality. If you’re planning a next‑week dinner or simply want to add a few bottles to your collection, the Bouchard Père & Fils Côtes du Rhône and the Lodi Vineyards Red Zinfandel are worth a look (and a sip).