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While on family road trips this summer in Ontario, I’ve shopped at many different LCBO agency stores. These are often local general stores that sell beer, wine and spirits alongside their usual goods. The grab-and-go selection is limited to popular brands, which prompted these recommendations of widely available wines that offer good value for money. Each wine offers compelling and complex flavours that evolve as you enjoy a glass.
Nine wines to enjoy in August, whether you’re looking for refreshment or flavours to savour
Cathedral Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2024 (South Africa), $19.95
Rating: 91
Cathedral Cellar is one of the popular brands produced by KWV, one of South Africa’s historic producers based in Paarl. The brand is named after the winery’s 1930 cellar, which is lined by 32 ornately carved oak vats for aging wine or brandy. The current release of cabernet sauvignon is a textbook example of the variety, with juicy dark fruit flavours rounded out by complex leather, smoke and graphite notes. This affordable expression has refined structure and balance as part of its rich and ripe character. This has 14.5 per cent ABV and 4 g/litre r.s. Drink now to 2030. Available at the above price in Ontario ($16.99 until August 16), $20.49 in British Columbia ($18.49 until August 29), various prices in Alberta and Saskatchewan, $19.99 in Manitoba.
The Beachhouse Sauvignon Blanc 2025 (South Africa), $12.95
Rating: 88
Thanks to an intense flavour and creamy texture that add weight and dimension, Beachhouse Sauvignon Blanc continues to be one of South Africa’s best values. There’s a lot going on in the glass. Expect a mix of apricot, nectarine and mango flavours, supported by grassy and floral notes. The soft and juicy acidity and clean finish, also add to its crowd-pleasing character. This has 13 per cent ABV and 3 g/litre r.s. Drink now. Available at the above price in Ontario ($11.95 until August 16), $13.99 in British Columbia ($11.99 until August 31), various prices in Alberta and Saskatchewan, $14.99 in Manitoba ($13.49 until August 31), $15.99 in New Brunswick, $15.49 in Nova Scotia ($14 until August 23), $15.99 in Prince Edward Island, $18.16 in Newfoundland.
Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2025 (New Zealand), $20
Rating: 88
Widely available across the country, Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc makes an impression thanks to its fragrant and generous style. The 2025 vintage strikes a winning balance between herbal and fruity flavours, with tropical, elderflower and grassy notes that stand out. Its zesty and flavourful character is especially enjoyable in the summer months. This has 12 per cent and 5 g/litre r.s. Drink now to 2028. Available at the above price in Ontario ($17 until August 16), $19.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta and Saskatchewan, $19.99 in Manitoba ($17.99 until August 31), $19.95 in Quebec, $25.30 in New Brunswick, $25.01 in Nova Scotia ($22.01 until August 23), $25.99 in Prince Edward Island, $24.82 in Newfoundland ($21.82 until August 29).