GroNLP/ik-nlp-22_winemag · Datasets at Hugging Face

index int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 8 values	description stringlengths 34 829	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 3.3k	province stringclasses 21 values	variety stringlengths 4 26
123,430	Spain	Strawberry and other red-fruit aromas run the bouquet. The palate is tangy and crisp, with dry but clean red-fruit flavors. Mildly spiced on the finish, this has length and purity. A very good quaffer.	87	12	Northern Spain	Rosé
40,962	Italy	Here's a simple Barbera with bright aromas of red fruit. On the palate, this shows cherry along with a hint of vanilla and peppery notes. Very fresh and smooth, but ready to drink now.	86	15	Piedmont	Barbera
28,468	US	Ripe strawberry compote typifies this appealing wine. The nicely ripened fruit is set in a mineral-driven, high acid frame, and shows both texture and length as it develops in the mouth. It's especially noteworthy given the moderate alcohol.	90	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
98,262	US	Stylistically focused in its clear embrace of fruit and cool-climate acidity, this balanced white is honeysuckle-inflected, with steely pear and orange blossom elements, unfettered by oak.	88	18	California	Chardonnay
44,271	US	Made by David Low of Anthill Farms in extremely small quantities, this is a new brand devoted to light-bodied wines from fine, cool-climate sites. Tight in dried cranberry and cherry, this is indeed a light and subtle undertaking, dusty and perfumed in rosewater fragrance.	88	46	California	Pinot Noir
4,411	US	In this 100% varietal wine, tire rubber, spice box and flower aromas are followed by seamless dark fruit flavors backed by firm but well integrated tannins. It shows a pleasant balance that sustains through the finish.	88	35	Washington	Merlot
112,657	US	This southern Rhône blend is a good everyday one. With its slightly sweet, jammy berry, cherry, cocoa, herb and spice flavors, it's an easy partner with burgers and fries.	84	17	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
59,682	US	Full and roundly lush, this is a big, bold wine from a specially selected site within an estate vineyard. It imparts smoked meat alongside rich, spiced plum, an undercurrent of rosemary and herbes de Provence whipping in between the fruit and generous tannin.	92	80	California	Pinot Noir
23,990	US	The Loner title seems to refer to an absence of oak, although it's not entirely unoaked. The wine spent time in what the winemaker calls “seasoned barriques” that lent no overt oak influence, but let the wine breathe and mellow. Marked by intense lemon, lime and mineral flavors, this bone-dry wine is elegant and eccentric.	92	60	California	Chardonnay
82,306	US	Seemingly as tart as a Riesling can get despite having residual sugar of 1.2%, this lemony lip-smacker shows good concentration. It would be a gem with the right foods, but on its own, the searingly tart acids may be too much for most tasters.	87	22	Oregon	Riesling
58,317	Argentina	Berry and cassis aromas are spicy and powerful, with integrated oak in support. This solid, tough wine features rugged but fair tannins. Savory berry, baked notes, leather and herbal flavors are very Cabernet-ish, while the finish is dry, firm and tannic. Age this until 2017–2022, or decant if drinking now.	91	23	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
38,903	Italy	Floral scents of honeysuckle and citrus blossom mingle with white stone fruit aromas. The lively weightless palate doles out white peach and green apple framed in bright acidity and a polished perlage. It has a clean, refreshing finish.	89	20	Veneto	Glera
68,724	US	Shows a certain aggressiveness, offering up vibrant raspberry and cherry fruit, cola, mocha and oak flavors, but kept aloof by its acidity and tannins. It's certainly elegant and pedigreed, but it need 3–4 years in the cellar.	93	57	California	Pinot Noir
84,698	Argentina	Dark berry and cassis aromas precede a focused chewy palate. Blackberry, blueberry, chocolate and spice flavors come together well, while a chunky full finish is ripe and satisfying.	89	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
94,855	US	From the producer's Annapolis vineyard, planted at 700 to 900 feet, this is a floral, spicy and high-toned wine. It shows pomegranate, plum and a noticeable streak of forest among its highlights, the tannins integrated and kept fresh and structured by the acidity.	91	50	California	Pinot Noir
29,508	US	This 100% Cabernet is so approachable now. The palate offers waves of ripe blackberries, cherries, cassis and mocha, touched with oak and wrapped in firm tannins. The grapes were grown in the new Coombsville appellation of the valley.	89	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
123,659	US	Vanilla salt-water taffy and melted butter are undercut with lime juice on the nose of this wine. Once sipped, it has a slightly waxy mouthfeel along with flavors of dried apples and underripe lime rinds, giving a slightly sour character.	84	15	California	Chardonnay
109,419	Argentina	Jammy, scratchy, oddly spiced aromas set up a drawing, cloying palate feel. Gummy strawberry and raspberry flavors finish short and briny, with a sweet, chocolaty note.	81	15	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
64,102	Italy	Big and bold, this opens on aromas of ripe wild berry, forest floor, sunbaked earth, leather and grilled herb. The concentrated palate offers fleshy Morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice, clove and dried herb while firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the close but the fruit richness keeps it in check. Drink 2018–2025.	91	70	Tuscany	Sangiovese
117,937	France	One of two wines reflecting different soil types, this one comes from ground with a good amount of clay as well as chalk. That produces weight, richness and an open character. Created from nearly 50-year-old vines, there is concentration here, as well as great fruitiness. The wine is still young, still bursting with crisp fruit, so wait until 2018 to drink.	92	25	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
84,060	Italy	There's slight sweetness here in the form of soft oak elements that glide easily together with the natural fruitiness and freshness of Barbera. There's nice personality and dimension and the wine is smooth and soft on the finish (save for that prickly touch of acidity you should expect).	90	25	Piedmont	Barbera
41,559	France	Richly structured, this is a wine with style and balance. It has plenty of firm tannins to contrasted with its juicy blackberry fruit. It needs some time to fill out. Drink from 2019.	88	32	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
70,249	US	This is bright, hot, spicy and (initially at least) showing some high tones that lift the flavors but also attenuate the midpalate. It's aromatic, with sweet cherry fruit, hot and spicy tannins and enough new oak (60%) to add butter and butterscotch to the finish.	90	45	Washington	Syrah
124,852	US	A plump but graceful wine, brimming with sour plum and cherry flavors. Finishes tart and lemony, but with coffee and chocolate accents as well. It's slow out of the blocks, so give it a brisk decanting prior to serving.	85	45	California	Pinot Noir
103,096	France	This full-bodied, ripe and generous wine is already open for drinking. It has rich green and white fruits, sliced pear and quince with a topping of lime juice. Toast gives a broader character. Drink from 2015.	87	32	Burgundy	Chardonnay
28,947	Spain	Aromas of plum, wild herbs and tobacco are mature and suggest that this is ready to drink. In the mouth, this is medium-bodied, with clarity and a sense of freshness. Plum, berry and cherry flavors finish in harmony. Drink through 2020.	90	35	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
80,918	US	This easy-to-drink Merlot is lusciously forward in blackberries and cherries, yet has extra qualities of structural complexity that recommend it. Beyond the sweetness are rich tannins, just-in-time acidity and a subtle floweriness of rose petals and violets.	90	45	California	Merlot
95,632	US	This blend of 83% Albariño and 17% Grenache Blanc is slightly incongruous from the juicy nose to the tight sip, but it works. Sunny aromas of honey, peach and white flowers hint at a sweeter wine, but the palate is tight, bright and bone dry, showing orange mousse, Key lime and grassy flavors.	91	24	California	White Blend
48,578	Spain	Gritty, stalky aromas override the wine's plum and berry scents. This feels acidic and rough, with abrasive tannins. Thus the flavors are tight, juicy and narrow, with an emphasis on red fruits. Minerality and acidity drive the finish.	85	42	Catalonia	Red Blend
82,883	France	A great celebration of the fine 2004 vintage, this wine reveals both generosity and a steely resolve. It has a cool elegance as well, giving it a sense of refinement, while still preserving the Roederer richness. The tight acidity holds the wine together and promises long aging.	95	67	Champagne	Champagne Blend
107,405	US	The Estate Vineyard bottling shows a definite meaty, almost Rhone-like aroma, but this is no Syrah. It's a very elegant, light, sultry bottle of Pinot Noir. The tart black cherry and currant fruit is shadowed by smoke and cinnamon, but the balance throughout is light and delicate.	90	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
116,817	US	Dry and clean, this is a nice Cabernet for everyday drinking. It shows modest blackberry, cherry, currant and herb flavors, with a kiss of oak.	84	12	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
36,710	Spain	A little bit off balance, with mild compost and earth on the nose giving way to an angular palate with pointed acids along with flavors of zesty berries and red apple skins.	84	21	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
33,493	France	This ripe, deliciously fruity wine has red plum and black currant fruits along with fragrant acidity and a gently tannic structure. It will be ready to drink from 2017. Canadian David Curl purchased Moya in 2008; Damien Landouar is the winery director. The vineyard was certified organic in 2013.	87	25	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
40,059	US	A delightful rosé sparkler, rich in raspberry, cherry and toasty, yeasty flavors, with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel and a honey-sweet finish. Made from Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Gamay and Chenin Blanc, it's a super value at this price.	87	12	California	Sparkling Blend
108,405	France	Balanced acidity and fruit give this Lobre wine its immediate attraction. It has a bright character, the fruit and the acidity in harmony. Drink this ripe wine now.	87	12	Bordeaux	Rosé
8,709	US	Softly tannic and direct in jammy blackberry, cherry and red plum flavors, with chocolate overtones that have a candied, sugary edge. Not showing a great deal of complexity now, but could evolve in a few years. Hard to predict.	88	49	California	Pinot Noir
115,689	US	A plush texture and mild fruit flavors make this easy to drink and enjoy. It's rather light bodied, showing spicy, oaky aromas plus soft plum and berry flavors. Just enough acidity and tannin give a satisfying bite.	87	50	California	Cabernet Franc
100,395	France	Balanced, a wine that shows the right richness, spice, great wafts of fresh plums, peaches, lifted by acidity and rounded by a fine wood element.	92	30	Burgundy	Chardonnay
76,968	Spain	This luxury Cava is entirely clean and pure on the bouquet. The palate is bright, lifted and zesty for a 2006, with apple, dry spice and lingering citrus notes. The body is defined by its yeasty weight and foam but it's not heavy or dull. Only 100 cases of this beauty were made. Drink now–2015.	91	40	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
103,972	US	Likably round and approachable, this medium-bodied red is mellow and fruity, showing red cherry fruit spiked with vanilla bean. It finishes on charred oak.	87	27	California	Merlot
73,578	US	Nothing small about this wine. A super-dark, ripe, juicy Zin full of oak and bacon flavors, lusty in every imaginable way, but not for everyone. Aged 18 months in American oak and edging into Port territory, drink this in moderation or have a nap spot picked out nearby.	85	59	California	Zinfandel
122,060	Italy	A blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, this robust red opens with aromas of ripe, black-skinned fruit, cedar and ground pepper. The concentrated palate doles out fleshy black cherries and black currants accented by licorice and allspice. Velvety tannins and the heat of evident alcohol provide the framework. It will definitely appeal to fans of bold, muscular wines, but it's shy on freshness so drink now.	90	115	Tuscany	Red Blend
106,538	Italy	Dark in color and slightly bashful at first, this blend of Syrah, Sangiovese and Merlot shows strength in its solid structure, with bright aromas of red cherry, blackberry, leather and cured meat. It would pair perfectly with stewed game meat, like wild boar.	88	27	Tuscany	Red Blend
103,142	US	Oaky and dense, this wine is sourced from the Nunes Vineyard, a fine site in the heart of the appellation. Raspberry and blueberry jam sway between a juicy midpalate, integrated with the oak and yet toasty, before boasting a vanilla-cherry finish.	88	57	California	Pinot Noir
110,468	US	Jammy blackberry and blueberry flavors highlight this 100% Cab, along with plenty of sweet new oak. The tannins are bold, but ultra-refined. High alcohol lends some heat as well as a glycerine feel. It's an unctuous, delicious wine, although slightly overripe.	88	145	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
46,135	France	Very mineral textured wine, speaking of limestone soil. It balances a toasty, smoky character against the ripest green and yellow fruits. The citrus lends its acidity to tighten up a finely structured, ageworthy wine.	92	93	Burgundy	Chardonnay
15,688	France	Not to be confused with wines from the vineyard of the same name in neighboring Pernand-Verglesses, this balanced wine shows ripe tropical fruits as well as toasted wood flavors. It is structured and still developing its rich potential. Drink from 2017.	92	44	Burgundy	Chardonnay
48,379	US	Wy'east is better than ever in this vintage, a divine balancing act with berry, plum, Asian spices and chocolate all in focus. From the opening scents, laden with complex and perfectly fused notes of blackberry, mineral, coriander and cacao, right on through the extended, captivating finish, this is a wine that is almost impossible to put down, yet will drink well at least through 2025.	95	36	Oregon	Pinot Noir
59,542	US	Tight tannins support a blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon with 21% Petit Verdot, 11% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. Black fruit, tobacco and leather give it a robust profile, finishing full bodied and ripe.	87	70	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
114,940	Australia	Nicely rounded in texture without being flabby, this is a lively, crisp white wine, well endowed with flavors reminiscent of melon, pear and lime. Perfect to drink now with most seafood dishes, or as an apéritif.	90	15	South Australia	Pinot Grigio
53,608	US	Perfumed, soft, smooth and elegant, this 100% varietal wine is not overly oaken nor overly tannic, a surprising twist on type. Plum and blackberry weave through a medium build and easygoing finish.	89	40	California	Petite Sirah
128,704	US	Dry and dusty, this lovely Cab shows red cherry sour candy, red currant, violet flower and smoky cedar flavors. The tannins are significant. It's a wine that needs time, but it should be very fine after 2011 and for several years after.	93	100	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
58,704	Argentina	Pungent, rudimentary berry aromas come across as candied, while the palate is very narrow and sweet. Drying on the finish due to wayward tannins; doesn't go beyond the ordinary. Imported by USA Wine Imports.	83	14	Mendoza Province	Malbec
70,496	US	Sourced from the excellent Lawrence Vineyard, this checks out as dry on the official Riesling scale, posted on the back label. It's yeasty and rich in the mouth, with lightly honeyed fruit flavors of lemon curd, candied orange peel, key lime and guava.	91	17	Washington	Riesling
125,063	US	With smidgens of Viognier and Sémillon, this wine offers aromas of sweet jasmine and fig, and is bright with some heft on the palate. With suggestions of tropical fruit and apricot, the acidity is subtle.	86	14	California	Sauvignon Blanc
78,254	US	Supple and elegant, with complex flavors of red cherries, cola, anise and smoky vanilla, and a sprinkle of orange zest in the finish. The mouthfeel could be a little firmer, but it's a pleasing Pinot for early drinking.	87	60	California	Pinot Noir
74,318	France	While the wine has some richness, it is also firmly structured, with a minerally severity from its tight tannins. Under the surface, there is a fruity character that's dominated by a juicy black-currant flavor.	89	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
64,905	Argentina	This warm-climate Chardonnay displays aromas of baked apple, toast and spice. It's resiny and heavy in the mouth, but there's enough acidity to maintain balance. Flavors of honeyed peach, baked apple, cinnamon and white pepper finish in tropical fashion, where banana is the lasting fruit note.	88	46	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
106,820	Italy	Underbrush, dried plum, resin, leather and a whiff of baking spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. The big chewy palate shows juicy blackberry, ripe black cherry, tobacco and clove set against a backbone of firm velvety tannins. Despite its heft, it also boasts surprising finesse. Hold for even more complexity. Drink 2017–2025.	94	135	Veneto	Red Blend
90,280	France	Slenderness and light touch are apparent with the first sniff of fresh citrus blossom. The palate of this wine shows the full fruit of 2015 with pear, peach, orange and apple shimmering through. The soft, bouncy palate is super-clean, fresh and dry.	91	25	Alsace	Riesling
96,656	US	The winery's top cuvée, this offers barely ripe rhubarb and cranberry fruit flavors, with heavy tannins tasting of green coffee. The finish has a slight bitterness, but the wine overall shows medium concentration and depth, and could be cellared for a few more years to smooth it out.	87	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
31,986	Italy	This full-bodied wine opens with pretty aromas of crushed blue flower, spice and perfumed berry. The dense, one-dimensional palate doles out juicy black cherry, cinnamon-spice and licorice. There's no complexity but it is delicious. Drink through 2015.	89	16	Tuscany	Red Blend
22,926	US	Ripe pear fruit introduces a full-bodied Pinot Gris, and carries it through a satisfying finish. It's fruit all the way, dusted with a little taste of cinnamon spice.	88	18	Oregon	Pinot Gris
47,061	France	Well balanced, this red fruited-wine is also fully structured with a mineral background. With a dosage that brings out the texture as well as the fruit, this is a great apéritif-style of wine. Drink now.	88	50	Champagne	Champagne Blend
86,302	US	A decent, everyday red for easy drinking with meats, cheeses and pasta. A blend of Syrah, Cabernet, Petite Sirah and Viognier, which gives a lemony brightness to the berry flavors.	84	12	California	Red Blend
98,317	US	Lavish heaps of blackberries and cherries are accented by nuances of nuts, dried herb and black tea leaves in this composed red wine. Full bodied but balanced in acidity and fruit, it's substantial without overpowering. The finish lingers on velvety tannins.	88	20	New York	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
122,558	US	In keeping with the voluptuous approachability of the 2007 vintage, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is simply fabulous now for its flood of the ripest, sweetest blackberrries, cherries, cassis and chocolate imaginable. Especially noble is the tannin structure, firm and soft, dry and sweet, a combination of opposites. The depth is vast, and the spicy finish goes on for a long time, suggesting the wine's concentration. Simply a joy to drink, it should develop over many years, but you might want to err on the side of youthfulness and open it by 2015.	97	225	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
18,080	US	Tonella has 16% Merlot within, from the estate vineyard around the winery. Cedar, currant and dried herb greet the nose and palate before allowing chalky, dusty tannin to season layers of chocolate and black cherry, staying structured and bright from start to finish.	90	90	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
78,569	US	Cola and cranberry juice decorate the crushed asphalt and light peppercorn notes of the nose on this bottling by Adam Lazarre and company. The palate plays the slightly underripe card, with Kalamata olive and green-peppercorn notes spicing up the more standard cranberry and pomegranate flavors. It's quite vibrant and zesty.	87	11	California	Pinot Noir
64,808	US	From the Columbia Valley AVA in Oregon, this is quite different from Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. It's a warmer, drier climate, and the wine has tighter flavors, with sharp tannins. There's cherry fruit and chocolate from barrel aging, with a hard, slightly bitter finish.	85	26	Oregon	Pinot Noir
72,924	US	There's a ton of inviting baking spices on the nose of this bottling, from crushed clove to nutmeg, as well as lushly stewed strawberries, bacon fat and purple flowers. It's rich and thick once sipped, certainly not a dainty wine, with baked black cherry and mace spice flavors proving hearty and delicious.	91	44	California	Pinot Noir
109,782	US	Brooding aromas of barrel spices, red and black fruit, freshly brewed coffee and pencil lead are followed by an intense full palate. It displays a lot of layers to explore.	92	75	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
111,983	US	Concentrated hibiscus and rose petals are cut by an iron minerality and anise character on the nose of this wine that Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton make for a Japanese partner. It's rich on the palate but still just medium weight, showing graphite, Asian spices, black peppercorns and lots of textural energy and acidic verve on the palate.	93	68	California	Pinot Noir
42,357	Italy	Ripe dark-skinned berry, forest floor and cooking spice aromas lead the nose along with a whiff of new leather. The chewy palate offers fleshy black cherry, cinnamon, vanilla and a hint of tobacco while polished tannins provide the framework. This is already accessible so no need to cellar it for years. Best through 2021.	90	50	Tuscany	Sangiovese
111,656	US	Aromas of vanilla, mocha, dried herbs, pencil lead and flowers rise up from the glass. Rich and hedonistic in style, it's full of concentrated cherry and coffee flavors that pack a hefty punch.	92	50	Washington	Cabernet Franc
125,058	Italy	This blend of 70% Nero d'Avola and 30% Syrah opens with aromas of blackberry and blue flower. The lean palate is drying out, but still offers a black cherry note and astringent wood tannins that give it an abrupt, drying finish.	86	26	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
80,517	Italy	Young and fresh, this opens with delicate scents of red berry, pressed violet and tilled soil. On the bright enjoyable palate, notes of white pepper and dark spice add interest to a core of wild cherry. It's easy drinking, thanks to zesty acidity and silky tannins.	89	32	Tuscany	Sangiovese
10,759	US	A spectacular Pinot that succeeds due to superior structure and complex flavors. With a silky texture, it feels smooth in the mouth, and shows dry, cool-climate flavors of raspberries, cola, oranges and anise, with the most lovely overlay of smoky oak. Beautiful acidity and finely meshed tannins provide the architecture. Drink now–2014.	94	110	California	Pinot Noir
78,931	US	From R.H. Phillips, itÕs a shade oakier and more refined than their regular bottling. The peach flavors are more concentrated, and sappier, but it comes at the cost of crispness. The wine sags in the mouth, like a Dali melted watch. But it tastes good.	85	14	California	Chardonnay
111,179	US	This is a country-style Cab, rugged and easy. Provides a pretty good mouthful of blackberry and currant flavor, and is nice and dry. Tough tannins suggest big, rich foods.	84	9	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
19,843	US	This young release carries strong scents and flavors of cranberry, along with the sharp acidic attack that implies, which qualifies it as a good choice for many fatty dishes. It's rather simple, fruity, with no hint of new oak. Drink up while it's young and fresh.	87	20	Oregon	Pinot Noir
122,266	Italy	Bright and savory, this opens with aromas of blue flowers, mint, dark berry and an earthy whiff of underbrush. The firm palate doles out black cherry, crushed raspberry, peppermint and white pepper alongside firm, sleek tannins. Drink through 2020.	90	19	Tuscany	Red Blend
69,123	France	So light in color, this Pinot Noir is almost a rosé. The texture and structure, though, are definitely of a red wine. Firm tannins give a backbone to the red cherry fruitiness and fresh acidity. It's still young so keep this wine until 2016.	87	28	Loire Valley	Pinot Noir
32,185	US	The oak is far out front, with this wine's aromas of Mounds Bar and green wood followed by raisinated fruit. Dark chocolate and cherry flavors are lighter in style with the concentration a bit wanting.	86	20	Washington	Syrah
117,140	US	Sourced from Red Willow, Olsen and Les Collines, this is the finest effort yet from Gramercy Cellars and one of the greatest Syrahs ever produced in Washington state. Think Hermitage with brighter fruit. It's intensely aromatic, dense and seamless, stacked with rich flavors of mixed berries, layers of smoke, earth and herb, and punctuated by citrusy acidity. Highlights of oranges and tangerines sneak into the finish, which lingers for an astonishingly long time. Exceptional in every way.	98	55	Washington	Syrah
76,347	Germany	Ripe, juicy peach and pink grapefruit flavors are accented with subtle mineral tones on this easy drinking, yet noteworthy Riesling. Dry and full bodied in style, it's lushly textured, with a bristle of lemon-pith astringency on the finish.	88	21	Mosel	Riesling
126,795	US	Quite a good wine. It's luscious in creamy flavors of blackberries, cherries and toast, and also beautifully balanced. You feel the elegant interplay of oak, tannins and acidity. Should develop over the next 6–8 years.	92	60	California	Red Blend
29,276	Germany	A tinge of white flower mingles with notes of honeycomb and lemon rind on this beautifully complex semi-dry Riesling. The palate is rich with sweet yellow peach and honey flavors balanced by citrus acidity and a bristle of black-tea astringency.	90	35	Mosel	Riesling
118,514	US	Massively ripe in pineapples, limes, green apples and lemons, this Sauvignon Blanc is clean and brisk in acidity. It's an upscale, fancy white wine that finishes just a little sweet in jam.	87	28	California	Sauvignon Blanc
51,675	Spain	Plum, cherry, cassis and earth aromas are as is, with little nuance or complexity. In the mouth, this is plump, maybe a bit chunky. Quiet, ripe plum and spice flavors finish with more of the same and little to no change. Drink now.	89	18	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
129,321	US	Quite spicy and nicely oaky in aroma and flavor without seeming overdone, this wine offers smooth and elegant red and black cherry flavors and a generous, soothing texture.	90	36	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
129,526	US	Sourced from the Clockspring Vineyard, this Sangiovese has a strong, long-lingering personality, smoky and intense in plum, baked strawberry and tobacco plus, a leathery streak of roasted herbs amid a solid texture of dark chocolate. It's the wine to pair with roast chicken similarly garnished in herbs, and similar fowl.	89	24	California	Sangiovese
108,574	US	Barrel fermented and ripened to exceptionally high alcohol, this dark, soapy wine is over the top in flavor. Not a trace of varietal character is left, just barrel and burn, plus intense perfume that dominates the nose. Drink up; it's already going over the hill.	83	22	Oregon	Viognier
77,540	US	This 100% varietal wine comes from older plantings at this vineyard. Aromas of plum, barrel spice and herb are up front followed by sweet black-fruit flavors. It shows hang time on the finish.	88	40	Washington	Malbec
89,007	US	This wine intoxicates aromatically in wild cherry and strawberry before entering into an entirely different direction of feral earth. Softly smooth on the palate, it's enjoyable now and an interesting taste experience, with an unfussy finish.	90	40	California	Pinot Noir
45,513	Spain	Earthy, syrupy aromas come with a spot of green and a touch of earthy mulch. This is bulky and flabby in feel as it struggles for balance. Thick berry flavors are matched by green, herbal, mossy notes, while the finish is chewy in feel and baked in flavor.	85	16	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
99,929	Spain	Basic apple aromas start it off, with a bit of lime coming in late. The palate is a touch boring and slightly heavy, with soft bubbles and thick, conventional apple flavors that turn sweet and mealy with time. Finishes with some baked corn and herbs.	84	19	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
7,196	France	This is the entry-level wine from this fine producer. It is soft, laced with acidity and grapefruit. Sliced apples add a further texture and bring out the steely edge of the wine. It has ripe fruit and a tangy aftertaste. It's ready to drink now.	90	28	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
94,535	US	Scents of peach and melon are layered with deep mineral tones on this gorgeously aromatic Riesling. The palate is lavish, with stone fruit and blossom flavors, yet it's steely and dry, with a waxy richness that lends volume and power to the finish. This is elegance epitomized.	91	19	New York	Riesling

123,430

Spain

Strawberry and other red-fruit aromas run the bouquet. The palate is tangy and crisp, with dry but clean red-fruit flavors. Mildly spiced on the finish, this has length and purity. A very good quaffer.

87

12

Northern Spain

Rosé

40,962

Italy

Here's a simple Barbera with bright aromas of red fruit. On the palate, this shows cherry along with a hint of vanilla and peppery notes. Very fresh and smooth, but ready to drink now.

86

15

Piedmont

Barbera

28,468

US

Ripe strawberry compote typifies this appealing wine. The nicely ripened fruit is set in a mineral-driven, high acid frame, and shows both texture and length as it develops in the mouth. It's especially noteworthy given the moderate alcohol.

90

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

98,262

US

Stylistically focused in its clear embrace of fruit and cool-climate acidity, this balanced white is honeysuckle-inflected, with steely pear and orange blossom elements, unfettered by oak.

88

18

California

Chardonnay

44,271

US

Made by David Low of Anthill Farms in extremely small quantities, this is a new brand devoted to light-bodied wines from fine, cool-climate sites. Tight in dried cranberry and cherry, this is indeed a light and subtle undertaking, dusty and perfumed in rosewater fragrance.

88

46

California

Pinot Noir

4,411

US

In this 100% varietal wine, tire rubber, spice box and flower aromas are followed by seamless dark fruit flavors backed by firm but well integrated tannins. It shows a pleasant balance that sustains through the finish.

88

35

Washington

Merlot

112,657

US

This southern Rhône blend is a good everyday one. With its slightly sweet, jammy berry, cherry, cocoa, herb and spice flavors, it's an easy partner with burgers and fries.

84

17

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

59,682

US

Full and roundly lush, this is a big, bold wine from a specially selected site within an estate vineyard. It imparts smoked meat alongside rich, spiced plum, an undercurrent of rosemary and herbes de Provence whipping in between the fruit and generous tannin.

92

80

California

Pinot Noir

23,990

US

The Loner title seems to refer to an absence of oak, although it's not entirely unoaked. The wine spent time in what the winemaker calls “seasoned barriques” that lent no overt oak influence, but let the wine breathe and mellow. Marked by intense lemon, lime and mineral flavors, this bone-dry wine is elegant and eccentric.

92

60

California

Chardonnay

82,306

US

Seemingly as tart as a Riesling can get despite having residual sugar of 1.2%, this lemony lip-smacker shows good concentration. It would be a gem with the right foods, but on its own, the searingly tart acids may be too much for most tasters.

87

22

Oregon

Riesling

58,317

Argentina

Berry and cassis aromas are spicy and powerful, with integrated oak in support. This solid, tough wine features rugged but fair tannins. Savory berry, baked notes, leather and herbal flavors are very Cabernet-ish, while the finish is dry, firm and tannic. Age this until 2017–2022, or decant if drinking now.

91

23

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

38,903

Italy

Floral scents of honeysuckle and citrus blossom mingle with white stone fruit aromas. The lively weightless palate doles out white peach and green apple framed in bright acidity and a polished perlage. It has a clean, refreshing finish.

89

20

Veneto

Glera

68,724

US

Shows a certain aggressiveness, offering up vibrant raspberry and cherry fruit, cola, mocha and oak flavors, but kept aloof by its acidity and tannins. It's certainly elegant and pedigreed, but it need 3–4 years in the cellar.

93

57

California

Pinot Noir

84,698

Argentina

Dark berry and cassis aromas precede a focused chewy palate. Blackberry, blueberry, chocolate and spice flavors come together well, while a chunky full finish is ripe and satisfying.

89

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

94,855

US

From the producer's Annapolis vineyard, planted at 700 to 900 feet, this is a floral, spicy and high-toned wine. It shows pomegranate, plum and a noticeable streak of forest among its highlights, the tannins integrated and kept fresh and structured by the acidity.

91

50

California

Pinot Noir

29,508

US

This 100% Cabernet is so approachable now. The palate offers waves of ripe blackberries, cherries, cassis and mocha, touched with oak and wrapped in firm tannins. The grapes were grown in the new Coombsville appellation of the valley.

89

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

123,659

US

Vanilla salt-water taffy and melted butter are undercut with lime juice on the nose of this wine. Once sipped, it has a slightly waxy mouthfeel along with flavors of dried apples and underripe lime rinds, giving a slightly sour character.

84

15

California

Chardonnay

109,419

Argentina

Jammy, scratchy, oddly spiced aromas set up a drawing, cloying palate feel. Gummy strawberry and raspberry flavors finish short and briny, with a sweet, chocolaty note.

81

15

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

64,102

Italy

Big and bold, this opens on aromas of ripe wild berry, forest floor, sunbaked earth, leather and grilled herb. The concentrated palate offers fleshy Morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice, clove and dried herb while firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the close but the fruit richness keeps it in check. Drink 2018–2025.

91

70

Tuscany

Sangiovese

117,937

France

One of two wines reflecting different soil types, this one comes from ground with a good amount of clay as well as chalk. That produces weight, richness and an open character. Created from nearly 50-year-old vines, there is concentration here, as well as great fruitiness. The wine is still young, still bursting with crisp fruit, so wait until 2018 to drink.

92

25

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

84,060

Italy

There's slight sweetness here in the form of soft oak elements that glide easily together with the natural fruitiness and freshness of Barbera. There's nice personality and dimension and the wine is smooth and soft on the finish (save for that prickly touch of acidity you should expect).

90

25

Piedmont

Barbera

41,559

France

Richly structured, this is a wine with style and balance. It has plenty of firm tannins to contrasted with its juicy blackberry fruit. It needs some time to fill out. Drink from 2019.

88

32

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

70,249

US

This is bright, hot, spicy and (initially at least) showing some high tones that lift the flavors but also attenuate the midpalate. It's aromatic, with sweet cherry fruit, hot and spicy tannins and enough new oak (60%) to add butter and butterscotch to the finish.

90

45

Washington

Syrah

124,852

US

A plump but graceful wine, brimming with sour plum and cherry flavors. Finishes tart and lemony, but with coffee and chocolate accents as well. It's slow out of the blocks, so give it a brisk decanting prior to serving.

85

45

California

Pinot Noir

103,096

France

This full-bodied, ripe and generous wine is already open for drinking. It has rich green and white fruits, sliced pear and quince with a topping of lime juice. Toast gives a broader character. Drink from 2015.

87

32

Burgundy

Chardonnay

28,947

Spain

Aromas of plum, wild herbs and tobacco are mature and suggest that this is ready to drink. In the mouth, this is medium-bodied, with clarity and a sense of freshness. Plum, berry and cherry flavors finish in harmony. Drink through 2020.

90

35

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

80,918

US

This easy-to-drink Merlot is lusciously forward in blackberries and cherries, yet has extra qualities of structural complexity that recommend it. Beyond the sweetness are rich tannins, just-in-time acidity and a subtle floweriness of rose petals and violets.

90

45

California

Merlot

95,632

US

This blend of 83% Albariño and 17% Grenache Blanc is slightly incongruous from the juicy nose to the tight sip, but it works. Sunny aromas of honey, peach and white flowers hint at a sweeter wine, but the palate is tight, bright and bone dry, showing orange mousse, Key lime and grassy flavors.

91

24

California

White Blend

48,578

Spain

Gritty, stalky aromas override the wine's plum and berry scents. This feels acidic and rough, with abrasive tannins. Thus the flavors are tight, juicy and narrow, with an emphasis on red fruits. Minerality and acidity drive the finish.

85

42

Catalonia

Red Blend

82,883

France

A great celebration of the fine 2004 vintage, this wine reveals both generosity and a steely resolve. It has a cool elegance as well, giving it a sense of refinement, while still preserving the Roederer richness. The tight acidity holds the wine together and promises long aging.

95

67

Champagne

Champagne Blend

107,405

US

The Estate Vineyard bottling shows a definite meaty, almost Rhone-like aroma, but this is no Syrah. It's a very elegant, light, sultry bottle of Pinot Noir. The tart black cherry and currant fruit is shadowed by smoke and cinnamon, but the balance throughout is light and delicate.

90

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

116,817

US

Dry and clean, this is a nice Cabernet for everyday drinking. It shows modest blackberry, cherry, currant and herb flavors, with a kiss of oak.

84

12

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

36,710

Spain

A little bit off balance, with mild compost and earth on the nose giving way to an angular palate with pointed acids along with flavors of zesty berries and red apple skins.

84

21

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

33,493

France

This ripe, deliciously fruity wine has red plum and black currant fruits along with fragrant acidity and a gently tannic structure. It will be ready to drink from 2017. Canadian David Curl purchased Moya in 2008; Damien Landouar is the winery director. The vineyard was certified organic in 2013.

87

25

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

40,059

US

A delightful rosé sparkler, rich in raspberry, cherry and toasty, yeasty flavors, with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel and a honey-sweet finish. Made from Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Gamay and Chenin Blanc, it's a super value at this price.

87

12

California

Sparkling Blend

108,405

France

Balanced acidity and fruit give this Lobre wine its immediate attraction. It has a bright character, the fruit and the acidity in harmony. Drink this ripe wine now.

87

12

Bordeaux

Rosé

8,709

US

Softly tannic and direct in jammy blackberry, cherry and red plum flavors, with chocolate overtones that have a candied, sugary edge. Not showing a great deal of complexity now, but could evolve in a few years. Hard to predict.

88

49

California

Pinot Noir

115,689

US

A plush texture and mild fruit flavors make this easy to drink and enjoy. It's rather light bodied, showing spicy, oaky aromas plus soft plum and berry flavors. Just enough acidity and tannin give a satisfying bite.

87

50

California

Cabernet Franc

100,395

France

Balanced, a wine that shows the right richness, spice, great wafts of fresh plums, peaches, lifted by acidity and rounded by a fine wood element.

92

30

Burgundy

Chardonnay

76,968

Spain

This luxury Cava is entirely clean and pure on the bouquet. The palate is bright, lifted and zesty for a 2006, with apple, dry spice and lingering citrus notes. The body is defined by its yeasty weight and foam but it's not heavy or dull. Only 100 cases of this beauty were made. Drink now–2015.

91

40

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

103,972

US

Likably round and approachable, this medium-bodied red is mellow and fruity, showing red cherry fruit spiked with vanilla bean. It finishes on charred oak.

87

27

California

Merlot

73,578

US

Nothing small about this wine. A super-dark, ripe, juicy Zin full of oak and bacon flavors, lusty in every imaginable way, but not for everyone. Aged 18 months in American oak and edging into Port territory, drink this in moderation or have a nap spot picked out nearby.

85

59

California

Zinfandel

122,060

Italy

A blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, this robust red opens with aromas of ripe, black-skinned fruit, cedar and ground pepper. The concentrated palate doles out fleshy black cherries and black currants accented by licorice and allspice. Velvety tannins and the heat of evident alcohol provide the framework. It will definitely appeal to fans of bold, muscular wines, but it's shy on freshness so drink now.

90

115

Tuscany

Red Blend

106,538

Italy

Dark in color and slightly bashful at first, this blend of Syrah, Sangiovese and Merlot shows strength in its solid structure, with bright aromas of red cherry, blackberry, leather and cured meat. It would pair perfectly with stewed game meat, like wild boar.

88

27

Tuscany

Red Blend

103,142

US

Oaky and dense, this wine is sourced from the Nunes Vineyard, a fine site in the heart of the appellation. Raspberry and blueberry jam sway between a juicy midpalate, integrated with the oak and yet toasty, before boasting a vanilla-cherry finish.

88

57

California

Pinot Noir

110,468

US

Jammy blackberry and blueberry flavors highlight this 100% Cab, along with plenty of sweet new oak. The tannins are bold, but ultra-refined. High alcohol lends some heat as well as a glycerine feel. It's an unctuous, delicious wine, although slightly overripe.

88

145

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

46,135

France

Very mineral textured wine, speaking of limestone soil. It balances a toasty, smoky character against the ripest green and yellow fruits. The citrus lends its acidity to tighten up a finely structured, ageworthy wine.

92

93

Burgundy

Chardonnay

15,688

France

Not to be confused with wines from the vineyard of the same name in neighboring Pernand-Verglesses, this balanced wine shows ripe tropical fruits as well as toasted wood flavors. It is structured and still developing its rich potential. Drink from 2017.

92

44

Burgundy

Chardonnay

48,379

US

Wy'east is better than ever in this vintage, a divine balancing act with berry, plum, Asian spices and chocolate all in focus. From the opening scents, laden with complex and perfectly fused notes of blackberry, mineral, coriander and cacao, right on through the extended, captivating finish, this is a wine that is almost impossible to put down, yet will drink well at least through 2025.

95

36

Oregon

Pinot Noir

59,542

US

Tight tannins support a blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon with 21% Petit Verdot, 11% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. Black fruit, tobacco and leather give it a robust profile, finishing full bodied and ripe.

87

70

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

114,940

Australia

Nicely rounded in texture without being flabby, this is a lively, crisp white wine, well endowed with flavors reminiscent of melon, pear and lime. Perfect to drink now with most seafood dishes, or as an apéritif.

90

15

South Australia

Pinot Grigio

53,608

US

Perfumed, soft, smooth and elegant, this 100% varietal wine is not overly oaken nor overly tannic, a surprising twist on type. Plum and blackberry weave through a medium build and easygoing finish.

89

40

California

Petite Sirah

128,704

US

Dry and dusty, this lovely Cab shows red cherry sour candy, red currant, violet flower and smoky cedar flavors. The tannins are significant. It's a wine that needs time, but it should be very fine after 2011 and for several years after.

93

100

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

58,704

Argentina

Pungent, rudimentary berry aromas come across as candied, while the palate is very narrow and sweet. Drying on the finish due to wayward tannins; doesn't go beyond the ordinary. Imported by USA Wine Imports.

83

14

Mendoza Province

Malbec

70,496

US

Sourced from the excellent Lawrence Vineyard, this checks out as dry on the official Riesling scale, posted on the back label. It's yeasty and rich in the mouth, with lightly honeyed fruit flavors of lemon curd, candied orange peel, key lime and guava.

91

17

Washington

Riesling

125,063

US

With smidgens of Viognier and Sémillon, this wine offers aromas of sweet jasmine and fig, and is bright with some heft on the palate. With suggestions of tropical fruit and apricot, the acidity is subtle.

86

14

California

Sauvignon Blanc

78,254

US

Supple and elegant, with complex flavors of red cherries, cola, anise and smoky vanilla, and a sprinkle of orange zest in the finish. The mouthfeel could be a little firmer, but it's a pleasing Pinot for early drinking.

87

60

California

Pinot Noir

74,318

France

While the wine has some richness, it is also firmly structured, with a minerally severity from its tight tannins. Under the surface, there is a fruity character that's dominated by a juicy black-currant flavor.

89

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

64,905

Argentina

This warm-climate Chardonnay displays aromas of baked apple, toast and spice. It's resiny and heavy in the mouth, but there's enough acidity to maintain balance. Flavors of honeyed peach, baked apple, cinnamon and white pepper finish in tropical fashion, where banana is the lasting fruit note.

88

46

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

106,820

Italy

Underbrush, dried plum, resin, leather and a whiff of baking spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. The big chewy palate shows juicy blackberry, ripe black cherry, tobacco and clove set against a backbone of firm velvety tannins. Despite its heft, it also boasts surprising finesse. Hold for even more complexity. Drink 2017–2025.

94

135

Veneto

Red Blend

90,280

France

Slenderness and light touch are apparent with the first sniff of fresh citrus blossom. The palate of this wine shows the full fruit of 2015 with pear, peach, orange and apple shimmering through. The soft, bouncy palate is super-clean, fresh and dry.

91

25

Alsace

Riesling

96,656

US

The winery's top cuvée, this offers barely ripe rhubarb and cranberry fruit flavors, with heavy tannins tasting of green coffee. The finish has a slight bitterness, but the wine overall shows medium concentration and depth, and could be cellared for a few more years to smooth it out.

87

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

31,986

Italy

This full-bodied wine opens with pretty aromas of crushed blue flower, spice and perfumed berry. The dense, one-dimensional palate doles out juicy black cherry, cinnamon-spice and licorice. There's no complexity but it is delicious. Drink through 2015.

89

16

Tuscany

Red Blend

22,926

US

Ripe pear fruit introduces a full-bodied Pinot Gris, and carries it through a satisfying finish. It's fruit all the way, dusted with a little taste of cinnamon spice.

88

18

Oregon

Pinot Gris

47,061

France

Well balanced, this red fruited-wine is also fully structured with a mineral background. With a dosage that brings out the texture as well as the fruit, this is a great apéritif-style of wine. Drink now.

88

50

Champagne

Champagne Blend

86,302

US

A decent, everyday red for easy drinking with meats, cheeses and pasta. A blend of Syrah, Cabernet, Petite Sirah and Viognier, which gives a lemony brightness to the berry flavors.

84

12

California

Red Blend

98,317

US

Lavish heaps of blackberries and cherries are accented by nuances of nuts, dried herb and black tea leaves in this composed red wine. Full bodied but balanced in acidity and fruit, it's substantial without overpowering. The finish lingers on velvety tannins.

88

20

New York

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

122,558

US

In keeping with the voluptuous approachability of the 2007 vintage, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is simply fabulous now for its flood of the ripest, sweetest blackberrries, cherries, cassis and chocolate imaginable. Especially noble is the tannin structure, firm and soft, dry and sweet, a combination of opposites. The depth is vast, and the spicy finish goes on for a long time, suggesting the wine's concentration. Simply a joy to drink, it should develop over many years, but you might want to err on the side of youthfulness and open it by 2015.

97

225

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

18,080

US

Tonella has 16% Merlot within, from the estate vineyard around the winery. Cedar, currant and dried herb greet the nose and palate before allowing chalky, dusty tannin to season layers of chocolate and black cherry, staying structured and bright from start to finish.

90

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

78,569

US

Cola and cranberry juice decorate the crushed asphalt and light peppercorn notes of the nose on this bottling by Adam Lazarre and company. The palate plays the slightly underripe card, with Kalamata olive and green-peppercorn notes spicing up the more standard cranberry and pomegranate flavors. It's quite vibrant and zesty.

87

11

California

Pinot Noir

64,808

US

From the Columbia Valley AVA in Oregon, this is quite different from Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. It's a warmer, drier climate, and the wine has tighter flavors, with sharp tannins. There's cherry fruit and chocolate from barrel aging, with a hard, slightly bitter finish.

85

26

Oregon

Pinot Noir

72,924

US

There's a ton of inviting baking spices on the nose of this bottling, from crushed clove to nutmeg, as well as lushly stewed strawberries, bacon fat and purple flowers. It's rich and thick once sipped, certainly not a dainty wine, with baked black cherry and mace spice flavors proving hearty and delicious.

91

44

California

Pinot Noir

109,782

US

Brooding aromas of barrel spices, red and black fruit, freshly brewed coffee and pencil lead are followed by an intense full palate. It displays a lot of layers to explore.

92

75

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

111,983

US

Concentrated hibiscus and rose petals are cut by an iron minerality and anise character on the nose of this wine that Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton make for a Japanese partner. It's rich on the palate but still just medium weight, showing graphite, Asian spices, black peppercorns and lots of textural energy and acidic verve on the palate.

93

68

California

Pinot Noir

42,357

Italy

Ripe dark-skinned berry, forest floor and cooking spice aromas lead the nose along with a whiff of new leather. The chewy palate offers fleshy black cherry, cinnamon, vanilla and a hint of tobacco while polished tannins provide the framework. This is already accessible so no need to cellar it for years. Best through 2021.

90

50

Tuscany

Sangiovese

111,656

US

Aromas of vanilla, mocha, dried herbs, pencil lead and flowers rise up from the glass. Rich and hedonistic in style, it's full of concentrated cherry and coffee flavors that pack a hefty punch.

92

50

Washington

Cabernet Franc

125,058

Italy

This blend of 70% Nero d'Avola and 30% Syrah opens with aromas of blackberry and blue flower. The lean palate is drying out, but still offers a black cherry note and astringent wood tannins that give it an abrupt, drying finish.

86

26

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

80,517

Italy

Young and fresh, this opens with delicate scents of red berry, pressed violet and tilled soil. On the bright enjoyable palate, notes of white pepper and dark spice add interest to a core of wild cherry. It's easy drinking, thanks to zesty acidity and silky tannins.

89

32

Tuscany

Sangiovese

10,759

US

A spectacular Pinot that succeeds due to superior structure and complex flavors. With a silky texture, it feels smooth in the mouth, and shows dry, cool-climate flavors of raspberries, cola, oranges and anise, with the most lovely overlay of smoky oak. Beautiful acidity and finely meshed tannins provide the architecture. Drink now–2014.

94

110

California

Pinot Noir

78,931

US

From R.H. Phillips, itÕs a shade oakier and more refined than their regular bottling. The peach flavors are more concentrated, and sappier, but it comes at the cost of crispness. The wine sags in the mouth, like a Dali melted watch. But it tastes good.

85

14

California

Chardonnay

111,179

US

This is a country-style Cab, rugged and easy. Provides a pretty good mouthful of blackberry and currant flavor, and is nice and dry. Tough tannins suggest big, rich foods.

84

9

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

19,843

US

This young release carries strong scents and flavors of cranberry, along with the sharp acidic attack that implies, which qualifies it as a good choice for many fatty dishes. It's rather simple, fruity, with no hint of new oak. Drink up while it's young and fresh.

87

20

Oregon

Pinot Noir

122,266

Italy

Bright and savory, this opens with aromas of blue flowers, mint, dark berry and an earthy whiff of underbrush. The firm palate doles out black cherry, crushed raspberry, peppermint and white pepper alongside firm, sleek tannins. Drink through 2020.

90

19

Tuscany

Red Blend

69,123

France

So light in color, this Pinot Noir is almost a rosé. The texture and structure, though, are definitely of a red wine. Firm tannins give a backbone to the red cherry fruitiness and fresh acidity. It's still young so keep this wine until 2016.

87

28

Loire Valley

Pinot Noir

32,185

US

The oak is far out front, with this wine's aromas of Mounds Bar and green wood followed by raisinated fruit. Dark chocolate and cherry flavors are lighter in style with the concentration a bit wanting.

86

20

Washington

Syrah

117,140

US

Sourced from Red Willow, Olsen and Les Collines, this is the finest effort yet from Gramercy Cellars and one of the greatest Syrahs ever produced in Washington state. Think Hermitage with brighter fruit. It's intensely aromatic, dense and seamless, stacked with rich flavors of mixed berries, layers of smoke, earth and herb, and punctuated by citrusy acidity. Highlights of oranges and tangerines sneak into the finish, which lingers for an astonishingly long time. Exceptional in every way.

98

55

Washington

Syrah

76,347

Germany

Ripe, juicy peach and pink grapefruit flavors are accented with subtle mineral tones on this easy drinking, yet noteworthy Riesling. Dry and full bodied in style, it's lushly textured, with a bristle of lemon-pith astringency on the finish.

88

21

Mosel

Riesling

126,795

US

Quite a good wine. It's luscious in creamy flavors of blackberries, cherries and toast, and also beautifully balanced. You feel the elegant interplay of oak, tannins and acidity. Should develop over the next 6–8 years.

92

60

California

Red Blend

29,276

Germany

A tinge of white flower mingles with notes of honeycomb and lemon rind on this beautifully complex semi-dry Riesling. The palate is rich with sweet yellow peach and honey flavors balanced by citrus acidity and a bristle of black-tea astringency.

90

35

Mosel

Riesling

118,514

US

Massively ripe in pineapples, limes, green apples and lemons, this Sauvignon Blanc is clean and brisk in acidity. It's an upscale, fancy white wine that finishes just a little sweet in jam.

87

28

California

Sauvignon Blanc

51,675

Spain

Plum, cherry, cassis and earth aromas are as is, with little nuance or complexity. In the mouth, this is plump, maybe a bit chunky. Quiet, ripe plum and spice flavors finish with more of the same and little to no change. Drink now.

89

18

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

129,321

US

Quite spicy and nicely oaky in aroma and flavor without seeming overdone, this wine offers smooth and elegant red and black cherry flavors and a generous, soothing texture.

90

36

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

129,526

US

Sourced from the Clockspring Vineyard, this Sangiovese has a strong, long-lingering personality, smoky and intense in plum, baked strawberry and tobacco plus, a leathery streak of roasted herbs amid a solid texture of dark chocolate. It's the wine to pair with roast chicken similarly garnished in herbs, and similar fowl.

89

24

California

Sangiovese

108,574

US

Barrel fermented and ripened to exceptionally high alcohol, this dark, soapy wine is over the top in flavor. Not a trace of varietal character is left, just barrel and burn, plus intense perfume that dominates the nose. Drink up; it's already going over the hill.

83

22

Oregon

Viognier

77,540

US

This 100% varietal wine comes from older plantings at this vineyard. Aromas of plum, barrel spice and herb are up front followed by sweet black-fruit flavors. It shows hang time on the finish.

88

40

Washington

Malbec

89,007

US

This wine intoxicates aromatically in wild cherry and strawberry before entering into an entirely different direction of feral earth. Softly smooth on the palate, it's enjoyable now and an interesting taste experience, with an unfussy finish.

90

40

California

Pinot Noir

45,513

Spain

Earthy, syrupy aromas come with a spot of green and a touch of earthy mulch. This is bulky and flabby in feel as it struggles for balance. Thick berry flavors are matched by green, herbal, mossy notes, while the finish is chewy in feel and baked in flavor.

85

16

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

99,929

Spain

Basic apple aromas start it off, with a bit of lime coming in late. The palate is a touch boring and slightly heavy, with soft bubbles and thick, conventional apple flavors that turn sweet and mealy with time. Finishes with some baked corn and herbs.

84

19

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

7,196

France

This is the entry-level wine from this fine producer. It is soft, laced with acidity and grapefruit. Sliced apples add a further texture and bring out the steely edge of the wine. It has ripe fruit and a tangy aftertaste. It's ready to drink now.

90

28

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

94,535

US

Scents of peach and melon are layered with deep mineral tones on this gorgeously aromatic Riesling. The palate is lavish, with stone fruit and blossom flavors, yet it's steely and dry, with a waxy richness that lends volume and power to the finish. This is elegance epitomized.

91

19

New York

Riesling