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
11,408	US	Toasty aromas lead the nose of this bottling from the Parker family's own vineyard, with brioche, freshly peeled lemon and a slight walnut touch. The palate shows restraint, just barely allowing its crushed chalk, Asian pear, exotic white flower and chamomile flavors to shine through.	91	40	California	Chardonnay
17,638	Argentina	With ripe aromas of cough syrup, baked berry, cherry and smoke, this Malbec offers a bit of everything. The palate is full but has energy, and the flavors of boysenberry, blueberry and chocolate come in a big, pounding wave. Finishes chunky and jammy, with adequate freshness.	87	12	Mendoza Province	Malbec
55,479	US	With off-dry flavors of ripe lemons, limes and vanilla, accented with brisk acidity, this simple wine will pair well with sweet Chinese and Vietnamese foods, and the price is right.	84	12	California	Sauvignon Blanc
66,327	US	Tart, almost sour, in gooseberry and pyrazine aromas and flavors, and bone dry, with crisp, citrusy acidity. Finely structured and dry, but those feline tastes are pretty strong.	84	21	California	Sauvignon Blanc
38,866	US	Aromas of blackberry jam and boysenberry lead to a ripe full-bodied palate. It brings a sense of hedonism.	90	44	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
70,001	US	This is a lovely Chardonnay, filled with varietal character. The pear, tropical fruit and kiwi flavors are enhanced with sweet, toasty oak, buttered-toast and vanilla notes.	87	26	California	Chardonnay
109,667	France	Something of both fresh and dried pink grapefruit zest plays about the nose. The very frothy palate adds some spice to that, as well as a pleasant hint of bitterness. All the fruit is accentuated by the frothing bursting bubbles. Drink soon, ideally as an animating apéritif. The zesty finish is very appetizing.	88	28	Alsace	Sparkling Blend
45,119	Italy	This opens with sensations of underbrush, tobacco, espresso and toasted notes. The extracted palate displays stewed fruit sensations, oak, vanilla, roasted coffee bean and searing alcohol. It's already evolved and ends on an almost sugary-sweet note.	85	25	Tuscany	Sangiovese
41,433	US	A knockout effort, this features perfectly ripened fruit flavors of berries, plums and cherries adorned with baking spices. There's a suggestion of candied citrus rind as well, but it's the superlush fruit that rocks on through a lengthy finish.	94	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
31,006	US	A very bright, citrusy Sierra Foothills Sauvignon Blanc, very fairly priced, that tastes of cool lemonade on a summer's day.	87	10	California	Sauvignon Blanc
49,659	US	The blend is 80% Zinfandel and 20% Petite Sirah. The nose is forward, with rich, ripe scents of plummy fruit and zingy spice. This is a lively, tart, zippy wine with attractive flavors. The fruit mingles plums, apples and berries; it's distinctive-very spicy and fairly lightweight, but still quite flavorful.	87	20	Washington	Zinfandel
128,865	US	Marked by two things, a very great spiciness and a robust body, this Zin comes from vines that are more than 80 years old. The crushed black pepper, anise and cinnamon notes frame soft, jammy flavors of berries and chocolate. Good price for a Zin this interesting.	86	12	California	Zinfandel
55,731	US	This wine's name translates to “dear father” in Farsi, the Persian owner's native tongue.The blend of 63% Shiraz and 37% Petite Sirah offers black fruit, wet earth and anise on the nose—altogether quite reserved for such a dark wine. The mouthfeel is full, but the flavors of black currant and cola are very shy.	86	35	California	Red Blend
87,410	US	Yet another example of where a producer's slightly cheaper appellation blends are just as stunning as the single-vineyard expressions. Steve Dooley's bottling offers black sage, dried tarragon, fennel, beet juice, cranberry, Earl Grey tea and smoked game on the nose. The palate shows smoked pork with a black-cherry rub, a touch of pencil lead and an intriguing red-sumac flavor.	94	32	California	Pinot Noir
45,978	France	Ripe and full in the mouth, this generous wine has yellow fruits and a warm, rich texture. Flavors of freshness flow right through the wine. Balanced and smooth at the end, it is ready to drink.	90	20	Burgundy	Chardonnay
33,475	Italy	Aromas of black currant, menthol, oak and vanilla lead the nose. The extracted, one-dimensional palate offers prune, blackberry extract, dried sage and tobacco alongside extremely raspy, astringent tannins that dry out the palate.	87	50	Tuscany	Red Blend
21,447	Italy	Fragrant and enjoyable, this offers aromas of ripe berry, Mediterranean herb, pressed violet and a whiff of pine forest. On the round easygoing palate, savory notes of brown cooking spice accent a core of red cherry and black raspberry. Enjoy through 2017.	88	14	Tuscany	Sangiovese
121,234	US	Reserved aromas of pencil lead, butterscotch and spice are followed by a full-bodied, creamy feeling palate, with a thread of lemony acidity that runs throughout. It's a compelling example of the variety, with a finish that won't quit.	92	40	Washington	Chardonnay
5,984	US	This easily affordable wine is a full-blown oaky version that has prominent toasted oak and wood smoke aromas that meld with butter, caramel and ripe pear flavors. It feels almost sweet and is full-bodied with mild acidity.	87	10	California	Chardonnay
62,826	France	An apple-fresh Champagne, this is fruity while also having a tangy, mineral character. It has a soft texture, showing white currants and citrus freshness to finish.	87	35	Champagne	Champagne Blend
35,246	US	The earthy aromas of this medium-bodied wine will not be to everyone's liking, but it follows up with very ripe fruit flavors and a smooth texture.	83	13	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
67,839	US	Eberle brings their signature touch of supreme drinkability to this youthful Cabernet. Strikes you for sheer balance, a wine that doesn't demand to star at the table. Shows classic, pleasant flavors of blackberries, black currants and anise.	88	34	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
17,519	US	Rollat's Sophie occupies the entry-level rung on the ladder, behind the elegant and polished Rollat and the dense, compact and highly cellar-worthy Edouard. But Sophie is charming and accessible, a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc that is elegant and bright. The fruit focus is on cranberry and raspberry, tart and well-defined, and the wine is immaculately clean. It's light and charming, but a perfect choice for autumnal foods.	89	29	Washington	Red Blend
70,385	France	This certified organic wine from Damien Lorteau is juicy with attractive blackberry fruit. Spice and warm tannins (aged 12 months in barrel) give it a rich structure. It will have a fine future—a ripe wine with plenty of fruitiness. Drink from 2019.	89	26	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
128,845	US	Golden roasted nuts, shredded pineapple and white peach converge on the nose of this wine, which remains tight and even thanks to a wet-slate minerality. The palate is nicely textured with a bit of grip, showing golden apples, orange cream, lemon pith and vanilla dust on the finish.	92	45	California	Chardonnay
18,018	Italy	Barolo Parafada is a lush, meaty and expressive wine with power, heft and bright aromas of cured meat, Bresaola, leather, dried rose, licorice and cola. The wine presents a solid wall of tannins and gritty firmness that will need at least another five years of bottle aging.	92	65	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
30,510	France	Initially austere in the mouth, this is a serious and complex wine. It has firm tannins, layers of blackberry fruits and acidity along with a strong feeling of wood aging. Powerful and with good depth, it's a wine that needs age. Drink from 2017.	90	40	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
78,122	US	This limited-production, aged wine incorporates 8% Merlot, sourcing grapes from several vineyards across the Napa Valley. Blueberry pie and sweet tobacco rise to the fore around an elegantly crafted structure, while soft, firm tannins provide just enough grip to stay juicy and compelling on the palate. It finishes with notes of chocolate, caramel and baking spice.	94	200	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
103,959	US	The aromatics immediately catch your attention: an inviting mix of raspberry and tart citrus. The wine is tightly focused, with crisp edges around wild-berry flavors. Just a tiny hint of bloody beef moves it toward more Northern Rhône Syrah flavors.	87	28	Oregon	Syrah
15,174	US	A pretty Sauvignon Blanc, polished and crisp, with a delicate, cleansing mouthfeel, and a dry finish. It has strong flavors of grapefruits, Asian pears and white tobacco, with stimulating spices.	87	22	California	Sauvignon Blanc
12,084	US	A vigorous, aggressive Syrah, this is full bodied and tannic, and it deals assertive blackberry, cherry, currant and sandalwood flavors.	86	28	California	Syrah
45,517	US	Juicy red cherry and raspberry flavors are layered with toast, cinnamon, vanilla and spice in this ornate yet approachable wine. It's sunny and plush on the midpalate, but grippy tannins mark a tight, brisk finish.	85	22	New York	Pinot Noir
35,693	US	A savory, woody accent runs through this medium-bodied, earthy and attractive wine made from “America's oldest Zinfandel vineyard.” The mouthfeel is quite smooth, with ample blackberry and strawberry flavors that soak the palate.	90	45	California	Zinfandel
6,666	US	A beautiful Sauvignon Blanc that shows why this warmish Santa Barbara County valley is such a natural home for the variety. With crisp acidity and a creamy texture, it's dry and minerally, with interestingly rich flavors of citrus fruits, melons and pears, and a touch of smoky oak.	90	15	California	Sauvignon Blanc
82,301	Italy	From one of Sicily's most powerful wine co-ops, this blend of Syrah and Nero d'Avola offers pretty fruit intensity, with layers of red cherry and blackberry. Subtle tones of spice, leather and bitter almond fill in the back.	87	30	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
23,690	US	Dried lemon peels and a hint of butter-fried apples show on the nose. Strong lemon acidity drives the palate, with a touch of sea salt and stone fruit proving very familiar.	87	30	California	Chardonnay
23,155	Italy	Still young and nervous, this opens with aromas of resin, pressed rose petal, dark berry and a whiff of coffee. The tightly packed palate offers a ripe black cherry core backed up by notes of sage and anise. It's still tense, with youthfully assertive tannins that need to loosen up. Drink 2018–2025.	90	37	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
129,823	France	Aromas of ripe yellow fruits announce a wine that has rich fruit flavors of apricots touched by pineapple. It does have the attractive, nervy texture of 2008, along with an important layer of toast.	89	65	Burgundy	Chardonnay
113,312	Italy	Subdued aromas of toast and red berry lead the way on this easygoing red. The simple, rather diluted palate offers sour cherry and a hint of spice alongside soft, fleeting tannins and fresh acidity.	85	18	Tuscany	Red Blend
87,204	France	Soft and on the sweet side of Brut, this wine is dominated by Pinot Noir grown in the Côte de Bar, in the Aube region. It is round, smooth and rich in character, ready to drink with a crisp aftertaste.	86	45	Champagne	Champagne Blend
48,897	France	A beautiful wine, smooth, polished, with rounded corners. Its intense fruit is balanced and harmonizes well with the sweet tannins, the layers of wood and the red berry flavors. Certainly powerful, it impresses equally with the pleasure it will give in 7–10 years.	98	319	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
47,583	US	Clear, light and varietal, this wine ping-pongs between subtle cinnamon and Asian spice around dark cherry and earth, with a big, juicy hit of oak and intense tannin. It finishes full-figured and robustly concentrated.	88	38	California	Pinot Noir
87,206	Portugal	This wine is made to be enjoyed young and fruity—it is a ripe, generous and full-bodied blend of Douro red grapes. There is a dry edge of tannins which are cushioned by the rich black fruits and lifted by final acidity. Drink now.	86	13	Douro	Portuguese Red
19,739	US	This beautifully balanced, flavorful wine combines vivid watermelon and canteloupe flavors with medium body, a rich texture and lingering finish. It has great concentration without being heavy.	91	22	California	Rosé
93,313	US	A pleasant sipper for drinking now, with citrus fruit, Asian-pear and peach flavors, accented by acidity. This 100% Sauvignon was unoaked.	86	15	California	White Blend
42,391	US	A stunning return to the quality that was seen in 2008, this superb effort bursts onto the palate with brambly berries, sweet herbs, coffee grounds and somewhat stiff, but polished, tannins. It's complex, with a touch of earthiness and generous length. The label reads Willamette Valley, though the vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA.	93	58	Oregon	Pinot Noir
75,172	France	This is a heavily Merlot dominated wine, hence the high alcohol. The effect, though, is of a wine that is fruity and with a crisp edge of black currant juice. It is young, spicy from wood aging and finishes with a stalky aftertaste.	86	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
29,760	France	This sweet soft wine is lightly perfumed and gentle on the palate. Crushed strawberry flavors have just the lightest acidity to keep the wine from being cloying. Drink now.	83	13	Loire Valley	Rosé
114,248	US	Red cherry, a touch of cinnamon, purple flowers and baked vanilla cookies show on the nose of this wine. Black cherry and gingerbread spice consume the palate, which also offers a rocky minerality and a vanilla foam finish.	88	62	California	Barbera
25,546	Italy	Classic scents of dark-skinned berry, chopped herb, dark spice and new leather take the lead in this wine. On the firm elegant palate, youthfully assertive, noble tannins support dried Marasca cherry, licorice and clove flavors while bright acidity lends balance.	92	38	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
87,668	US	Initially dense and brooding, this wine reveals lightly etched layers of cherry and strawberry on the palate. Just the right accent of earthy dirt and stone round out the finish.	88	45	California	Pinot Noir
75,123	Italy	Made entirely from Sangiovese, it has earthy aromas of tilled soil, blue flower, ripe berry and notes of balsamic herbs. The palate offers juicy black cherry, white pepper, dried Mediterranean herbs and coffee bean alongside firm but ripe tannins. Straightforward and accessible now, it is not an ager so enjoy soon. Guido & Son Italian Imports, Old Bridge Cellars.	87	20	Tuscany	Sangiovese
89,130	US	This is a 100% Cabernet, grown further north than the winery's amazing Rockaway bottling, which is to say in a hotter area. Comparisons are inevitable. Although it's rich and even dramatic, it's not as impressive a wine, showing a raisiny edge to the black currants and chocolate. Doesn't have the balance for aging, so drink now with upscale beef and lamb dishes.	88	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
112,943	France	Crisp and with a strongly mineral character, this is a young, textured wine. As it softens and gets the ripeness of the vintage, it will become smooth and rich. Drink from late 2017.	87	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
119,119	US	Blackberry, tobacco, dried purple flowers and bloody meats greet the nose on this solid wine from pioneering winegrower Louis Lucas and his retired judge partner, Royce Lewellen. The palate shows black cherries and plums, with complexity added by tobacco and pepper spice. The flavors come in and go out quickly, proving clean and fresh.	88	26	California	Syrah
41,244	US	A lovely wine, rich and balanced and crisp, that shows how sometimes an offbeat blend can be better than a varietal wine. Made from Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer and Viognier, it's deliciously off-dry. Each variety brings something to the table, resulting in a whole that's superior to its parts.	91	26	California	White Blend
40,664	US	Black pepper, graphite and reluctant boysenberry notes balance the rubbery funk on the nose of this cool-climate Syrah. It's fairly light on the palate, with just-ripe boysenberry and chopped Italian herbs.	85	32	California	Syrah
36,669	Portugal	This is a new style for Redoma, smoother and fruitier when young than in the past. Old vines give concentration and extra richness, making it velvet-textured and packed with black fruits, This will be an impressive wine as it ages. Drink from 2019.	92	48	Douro	Portuguese Red
66,408	France	This still tastes impressively young for a simple Chablis. In fact it isn't simple at all, showing all the intensity of a premier cru with its minerality, fresh lime and other citrus flavors, hints of honey and white fruits.	89	32	Burgundy	Chardonnay
40,066	Italy	Clean, simple and correct, this wine offers an excellent window into the Nebbiolo grape. From a young vintage and free of the aromas and textures associated with long aging in wood, this bright wine focuses on quality of fruit and fresh berry aromas backed by crispness and good structure.	87	20	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
27,662	Italy	This happy blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet and Merlot delivers delicate blueberry nuances and warm toast. It's a wine that flows over the palate, leaving it clean and refreshed.	90	20	Tuscany	Red Blend
93,376	Italy	This offers aromas of baked earth, pressed rose, dark cooking spice and mature plum. The bright palate offers black cherry, raspberry, clove and anise accompanied by vibrant acidity. Enjoy through 2016.	87	35	Piedmont	Barbera
8,691	US	The aromas bring appeal, with notes of sour cherry, herbs and spice. The palate is light bodied, tart and elegant, with a coffee-filled finish. It's a pretty expression of the variety.	88	25	Washington	Sangiovese
125,732	France	While this has a tight corset of freshness and structure, expressive notes of peach show their exuberance. The palate again reveals tautness, shot through with lemon purity while the peach delightfully plays around them.	91	22	Alsace	Riesling
8,449	Argentina	This opens with persuasive aromas of wild berry and cassis before cola and leather notes enter. It's a powerfully built Malbec with bright acidity, strong bones and pure, bold flavors of blackberry and black cherry. This is youthful and more fruit focused than the oakier DJN 2006 Reserva Malbec.	92	32	Mendoza Province	Malbec
48,340	US	There's no denying this wine's appeal with its aromas and flavors of dark fruit, café au lait, earth and herbs. It's restrained yet flavorful, with a lingering, coffee-filled finish.	90	28	Washington	Syrah
53,023	US	This Cabernet is a mixed bag. It's oaky and also fruity, but a little vegetal, with some green notes alongside sweet raspberry and cherry candy and caramel flavors. A real disappointment, coming after a series of good bottlings, but the vintage was difficult.	86	135	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
12,293	France	The beauty of Krug's rosé is the sense of bottle age, of that extra richness. That means the wine is not just the sum of its delicious red berry fruits. It's also the way the wine is rounded out, filled with secondary flavors, toast and almonds and a taut minerality. The aftertaste is taut, dry, seamless, complex.	94	400	Champagne	Champagne Blend
56,229	US	This full-bodied wine does a superb job of blending luscious fruit flavors of Anjou pear and fresh fig with a spice rack of nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon. Good concentration and depth help it feel full and creamy on the palate and extend the finish nicely.	91	18	California	Chardonnay
116,743	US	This wine is an intriguing blend of three-quarters Cabernet Sauvignon, with the rest Syrah (20%) and Grenache. Aromas of café au lait, exotic spice, vanilla, wood notes and black cherries lead to tangy cherry flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins.	89	40	Washington	Red Blend
68,597	Italy	Pinot Grigio Unterebner offers a beautiful contrast between cool-climate aromas of white flower and passion fruit and spicy, oak-driven aromas of vanilla and cinnamon bun. Pair this wine with a savory appetizer strudel filled with spinach, cheese and pine nuts.	90	31	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
29,861	US	This Cab is in a bit of a hole now, caught midway between the fresh fruitiness of youth, and what it will be at the age of, say, ten years. It feels very soft and dense, with blackberry, cassis, chocolate and funky leather flavors. You're best off leaving it in the cellar for another 5–6 years.	89	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
81,457	US	Coming from cool Edna Valley, the acidity is here, even in this hot vintage, and so is the clean, long hangtime fruit. The wine bursts with blackberries, cherries, plums and wilder notes of unidentified forest berries and sweet, smoky leather. Drink now, for its complex, juicy youthfulness.	89	25	California	Syrah
22,646	US	The name comes from a Django tune, and also means “clouds” in French. Nothing cloudy here though—it's a pretty, lively, fruit-driven blend with cherry candy flavors. Crisp and fresh, a streak of cola runs comet-like through the tail, along with a hint of mint.	88	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
59,720	US	This wine offers baked flavors of red raspberry, black cherry and grapy plum. It finds its balance between juicy approachability and a swat of tannin that provides depth and body. It finishes ripe and with a suggestion of char.	88	45	California	Pinot Noir
14,651	Italy	This Brut style Prosecco from Gancia (one of the most historic producers of this popular Italian sparkling wine) offers fresh floral aromas backed by drying mineral tones and pulpy notes of peach and apricot. The finish is crisp, cleansing and tonic.	86	11	Veneto	Glera
40,868	US	Intensely ripe cherry and berry flavors mark this plush, softly structured rosé. It's easygoing, fruity style is approachable.	84	16	New York	Merlot
107,964	Spain	Solid up front, with sweet and spicy aromas of plum, vanilla and candied berry. Feels full and good, with weight and thickness boosting up toasty, woody berry flavors. Dries out on the finish, leaving spice and a resiny taste. Drink now through 2014.	88	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
24,935	France	This blend of 50% Mourvèdre and 50% Syrah shows some deep, plummy aromas and flavors and blackberries, spice and cola. It's medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a touch of warmth on the finish. Drink now–2014.	88	28	Provence	Rhône-style Red Blend
23,745	US	A very good Mendocino County Cabernet, Kimmel is tightly tannic with an elegant backbeat. The palate is very savory in its cranberry, herb and dark berry fruit flavors. Full bodied with layers of concentration, the wine's still young; give it time to open and develop.	88	48	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
103,487	Germany	Sweet and lush in the house style, but lighter on its feet than many of the other bottlings from Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler, this kabinett shows some intriguing fumé-like notes on the nose, then delivers ripe melon and pear fruit on the palate. Finishes long.	90	25	Mosel	Riesling
43,202	Italy	Lamaione is Frescobaldi's flagship Merlot and this vintage is especially plush and velvety. The wine's nose recalls inky berry juice, exotic spice and soft tones of leather and tobacco. The finish is long and satisfying, supported by the wine's dense structure.	93	60	Tuscany	Merlot
49,091	US	It's difficult to find a good California Pinot for under $20, but this bottling pulls it off. The wine is silky, crisp and clean, with delicious raspberry, cherry, oak and spice flavors. It's an affordable wine to introduce a new generation to the joys of Pinot Noir.	87	17	California	Pinot Noir
109,839	US	Mocha, baked plum and black pepper play equal roles in this stunning, full-bodied beauty from the famous site, all within a tightly focused, integrated experience of seamless texture and structure. Richly concentrated and yet able to find a balance of acidity and freshness within its voluptuous nature, this wine impresses from end to end and will do well in the cellar; enjoy best from 2023 to 2025.	97	175	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
103,187	US	Salty and savory, this unfiltered wine conveys a lot of wet stone and petrol character. The dark golden color reveals its time in oak. Concentrated and full-bodied, with rich layers of baked apple and pear, it shows a complexity on the palate and a depth of lingering fruit and ginger on the finish.	93	130	California	Chardonnay
73,208	Spain	Raisiny aromas are rich and gritty. Pounding tannins and a beam of acidity drive the palate, which brings flavors of oaky baked fruits and black licorice. A jammy finish with baked berry and raisiny flavors confirms that this is extremely ripe and ready to drink now.	86	17	Catalonia	Red Blend
36,245	US	A fascinatingly flavorful wine by South African Ernst Storm, this shows very perfumed apple peels, pungent green pears and telltale grass shavings on the nose, all lifted by white pepper, wet thyme and hints of dried peaches. The incredibly vibrant palate, with lots of energy and acidity yet not in a biting way, offers flavors of rainy cement, limestone, Granny Smith apple skins and more grass.	92	35	California	Sauvignon Blanc
111,980	US	A rich, decadent and generous wine, 100% varietal, this is both floral and fruity, bright in cherry and raspberry alongside herbal cedar and vanilla. A medium weight surrounds softly integrated tannins, leading the way to an explosive, juicy finish. This is a classic example of the appellation's prowess in approachable power.	93	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
15,348	France	As its 14.5% indicates, this is a particularly rich wine. Maybe too rich, because it is all superripe black fruit without the balance of structure or acidity. Enjoy it as a blockbuster, probably not with food.	84	17	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
54,451	US	This Chardonnay is marked by tart acidity, lemon and pear flavors and oak. While it's technically dry, it has a honeyed note that suggests Asian fare, or Sunday brunch with a cheese omelet.	87	28	California	Chardonnay
110,818	US	More delicate and dainty in mousse than other bottlings from Château Frank, this blanc de blancs calibrates gossamer layers of pristine apple, pear and citrus flavors against spine-tingling acidity. It's breathlessly vivacious and penetrates long with a touch of sugar cookie crumbles.	90	30	New York	Chardonnay
61,036	US	Fans of fruity Pinot Noirs will love this one, with its sweet raspberry and cherry jam flavors. Beyond that, there's not much going on. It's silky in texture, with a boost of acidity.	84	20	California	Pinot Noir
944	US	Sharply defined, this has piercing, penetrating high notes that are both floral and fruity. Its lemon and tangerine fruit is amped up with some alcoholic burn. Aerating it helps to smooth it out.	87	27	Oregon	Viognier
125,289	US	The latest entrant into the Napa Cabernet sweepstakes succeeds with this flashy wine. Made from grapes grown in the warm Vaca Hills east of the Silverado Trail, this wine impresses immediately with aromatics of black currants, mocha and lightly toasted French oak. In the mouth, it's pure Cabernet pleasure, with soft, compelling tannins and fine acidity. It's a dramatic wine that should develop well over the next 10 years, if not longer. This is a winery to watch.	94	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
1,338	France	This blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah is attractively fruity. It has a crisp texture that gives it a bright character, red-currant fruitiness and intense refreshing acidity. The aftertaste is elegant and fruity. The wine's name (meaning to dare) is an anagram of Rosé. Drink now.	90	21	Provence	Rosé
43,966	Spain	Not too loud or vocal on the nose; it offers basic but entirely attractive ripe berry aromas. Tastes like blackberry and black cherry, with ample oak adding chocolate and vanilla flavors. Baked and rich tasting but it dries out well on the finish. 375 cases made; drink now through 2016.	91	85	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
122,695	US	They can't call the grapes old vine, because the vineyard is only 15 years old. But it was planted from clones that constituted an old vineyard that contained Petite Sirah, Carignane, Mataro and Alicante Bouschet. The wine is robust and rustic, with bright, briary berry fruit and spice flavors that will stand up well against any roasted meats.	88	22	California	Zinfandel
27,847	US	Steve Clifton captures freshness and vibrancy like few winemakers. This bottling shows deep and inviting tones of olallieberry, dill, anise, lavender and lilac on the nose. Powerful boysenberry fruit is lifted by spicy black pepper and even a chile zest on the palate, where strong acidity and firm tannins ensure long aging potential. It still needs a little time.	92	40	California	Barbera
52,546	US	The stylish label puts this in the “bro” wine category, yet it's quite a good get for the price. Light aromas of crushed cherry candies, charred wood and fresh chopped mint drop into a palate laden with cherries and menthol. It's a nice, easy and not overpowering wine.	87	20	California	Zinfandel
40,472	US	Despite its light-as-a-feather demeanor, a crush of bright red cherry and cranberry flavors pulsate from this dazzling Cabernet Franc. It's refreshingly thirst quenching, yet elegant enough to savor through a long, herb and bramble-toned finish. Drink now through 2016.	91	19	New York	Cabernet Franc

11,408

US

Toasty aromas lead the nose of this bottling from the Parker family's own vineyard, with brioche, freshly peeled lemon and a slight walnut touch. The palate shows restraint, just barely allowing its crushed chalk, Asian pear, exotic white flower and chamomile flavors to shine through.

91

40

California

Chardonnay

17,638

Argentina

With ripe aromas of cough syrup, baked berry, cherry and smoke, this Malbec offers a bit of everything. The palate is full but has energy, and the flavors of boysenberry, blueberry and chocolate come in a big, pounding wave. Finishes chunky and jammy, with adequate freshness.

87

12

Mendoza Province

Malbec

55,479

US

With off-dry flavors of ripe lemons, limes and vanilla, accented with brisk acidity, this simple wine will pair well with sweet Chinese and Vietnamese foods, and the price is right.

84

12

California

Sauvignon Blanc

66,327

US

Tart, almost sour, in gooseberry and pyrazine aromas and flavors, and bone dry, with crisp, citrusy acidity. Finely structured and dry, but those feline tastes are pretty strong.

84

21

California

Sauvignon Blanc

38,866

US

Aromas of blackberry jam and boysenberry lead to a ripe full-bodied palate. It brings a sense of hedonism.

90

44

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

70,001

US

This is a lovely Chardonnay, filled with varietal character. The pear, tropical fruit and kiwi flavors are enhanced with sweet, toasty oak, buttered-toast and vanilla notes.

87

26

California

Chardonnay

109,667

France

Something of both fresh and dried pink grapefruit zest plays about the nose. The very frothy palate adds some spice to that, as well as a pleasant hint of bitterness. All the fruit is accentuated by the frothing bursting bubbles. Drink soon, ideally as an animating apéritif. The zesty finish is very appetizing.

88

28

Alsace

Sparkling Blend

45,119

Italy

This opens with sensations of underbrush, tobacco, espresso and toasted notes. The extracted palate displays stewed fruit sensations, oak, vanilla, roasted coffee bean and searing alcohol. It's already evolved and ends on an almost sugary-sweet note.

85

25

Tuscany

Sangiovese

41,433

US

A knockout effort, this features perfectly ripened fruit flavors of berries, plums and cherries adorned with baking spices. There's a suggestion of candied citrus rind as well, but it's the superlush fruit that rocks on through a lengthy finish.

94

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

31,006

US

A very bright, citrusy Sierra Foothills Sauvignon Blanc, very fairly priced, that tastes of cool lemonade on a summer's day.

87

10

California

Sauvignon Blanc

49,659

US

The blend is 80% Zinfandel and 20% Petite Sirah. The nose is forward, with rich, ripe scents of plummy fruit and zingy spice. This is a lively, tart, zippy wine with attractive flavors. The fruit mingles plums, apples and berries; it's distinctive-very spicy and fairly lightweight, but still quite flavorful.

87

20

Washington

Zinfandel

128,865

US

Marked by two things, a very great spiciness and a robust body, this Zin comes from vines that are more than 80 years old. The crushed black pepper, anise and cinnamon notes frame soft, jammy flavors of berries and chocolate. Good price for a Zin this interesting.

86

12

California

Zinfandel

55,731

US

This wine's name translates to “dear father” in Farsi, the Persian owner's native tongue.The blend of 63% Shiraz and 37% Petite Sirah offers black fruit, wet earth and anise on the nose—altogether quite reserved for such a dark wine. The mouthfeel is full, but the flavors of black currant and cola are very shy.

86

35

California

Red Blend

87,410

US

Yet another example of where a producer's slightly cheaper appellation blends are just as stunning as the single-vineyard expressions. Steve Dooley's bottling offers black sage, dried tarragon, fennel, beet juice, cranberry, Earl Grey tea and smoked game on the nose. The palate shows smoked pork with a black-cherry rub, a touch of pencil lead and an intriguing red-sumac flavor.

94

32

California

Pinot Noir

45,978

France

Ripe and full in the mouth, this generous wine has yellow fruits and a warm, rich texture. Flavors of freshness flow right through the wine. Balanced and smooth at the end, it is ready to drink.

90

20

Burgundy

Chardonnay

33,475

Italy

Aromas of black currant, menthol, oak and vanilla lead the nose. The extracted, one-dimensional palate offers prune, blackberry extract, dried sage and tobacco alongside extremely raspy, astringent tannins that dry out the palate.

87

50

Tuscany

Red Blend

21,447

Italy

Fragrant and enjoyable, this offers aromas of ripe berry, Mediterranean herb, pressed violet and a whiff of pine forest. On the round easygoing palate, savory notes of brown cooking spice accent a core of red cherry and black raspberry. Enjoy through 2017.

88

14

Tuscany

Sangiovese

121,234

US

Reserved aromas of pencil lead, butterscotch and spice are followed by a full-bodied, creamy feeling palate, with a thread of lemony acidity that runs throughout. It's a compelling example of the variety, with a finish that won't quit.

92

40

Washington

Chardonnay

5,984

US

This easily affordable wine is a full-blown oaky version that has prominent toasted oak and wood smoke aromas that meld with butter, caramel and ripe pear flavors. It feels almost sweet and is full-bodied with mild acidity.

87

10

California

Chardonnay

62,826

France

An apple-fresh Champagne, this is fruity while also having a tangy, mineral character. It has a soft texture, showing white currants and citrus freshness to finish.

87

35

Champagne

Champagne Blend

35,246

US

The earthy aromas of this medium-bodied wine will not be to everyone's liking, but it follows up with very ripe fruit flavors and a smooth texture.

83

13

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

67,839

US

Eberle brings their signature touch of supreme drinkability to this youthful Cabernet. Strikes you for sheer balance, a wine that doesn't demand to star at the table. Shows classic, pleasant flavors of blackberries, black currants and anise.

88

34

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

17,519

US

Rollat's Sophie occupies the entry-level rung on the ladder, behind the elegant and polished Rollat and the dense, compact and highly cellar-worthy Edouard. But Sophie is charming and accessible, a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc that is elegant and bright. The fruit focus is on cranberry and raspberry, tart and well-defined, and the wine is immaculately clean. It's light and charming, but a perfect choice for autumnal foods.

89

29

Washington

Red Blend

70,385

France

This certified organic wine from Damien Lorteau is juicy with attractive blackberry fruit. Spice and warm tannins (aged 12 months in barrel) give it a rich structure. It will have a fine future—a ripe wine with plenty of fruitiness. Drink from 2019.

89

26

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

128,845

US

Golden roasted nuts, shredded pineapple and white peach converge on the nose of this wine, which remains tight and even thanks to a wet-slate minerality. The palate is nicely textured with a bit of grip, showing golden apples, orange cream, lemon pith and vanilla dust on the finish.

92

45

California

Chardonnay

18,018

Italy

Barolo Parafada is a lush, meaty and expressive wine with power, heft and bright aromas of cured meat, Bresaola, leather, dried rose, licorice and cola. The wine presents a solid wall of tannins and gritty firmness that will need at least another five years of bottle aging.

92

65

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

30,510

France

Initially austere in the mouth, this is a serious and complex wine. It has firm tannins, layers of blackberry fruits and acidity along with a strong feeling of wood aging. Powerful and with good depth, it's a wine that needs age. Drink from 2017.

90

40

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

78,122

US

This limited-production, aged wine incorporates 8% Merlot, sourcing grapes from several vineyards across the Napa Valley. Blueberry pie and sweet tobacco rise to the fore around an elegantly crafted structure, while soft, firm tannins provide just enough grip to stay juicy and compelling on the palate. It finishes with notes of chocolate, caramel and baking spice.

94

200

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

103,959

US

The aromatics immediately catch your attention: an inviting mix of raspberry and tart citrus. The wine is tightly focused, with crisp edges around wild-berry flavors. Just a tiny hint of bloody beef moves it toward more Northern Rhône Syrah flavors.

87

28

Oregon

Syrah

15,174

US

A pretty Sauvignon Blanc, polished and crisp, with a delicate, cleansing mouthfeel, and a dry finish. It has strong flavors of grapefruits, Asian pears and white tobacco, with stimulating spices.

87

22

California

Sauvignon Blanc

12,084

US

A vigorous, aggressive Syrah, this is full bodied and tannic, and it deals assertive blackberry, cherry, currant and sandalwood flavors.

86

28

California

Syrah

45,517

US

Juicy red cherry and raspberry flavors are layered with toast, cinnamon, vanilla and spice in this ornate yet approachable wine. It's sunny and plush on the midpalate, but grippy tannins mark a tight, brisk finish.

85

22

New York

Pinot Noir

35,693

US

A savory, woody accent runs through this medium-bodied, earthy and attractive wine made from “America's oldest Zinfandel vineyard.” The mouthfeel is quite smooth, with ample blackberry and strawberry flavors that soak the palate.

90

45

California

Zinfandel

6,666

US

A beautiful Sauvignon Blanc that shows why this warmish Santa Barbara County valley is such a natural home for the variety. With crisp acidity and a creamy texture, it's dry and minerally, with interestingly rich flavors of citrus fruits, melons and pears, and a touch of smoky oak.

90

15

California

Sauvignon Blanc

82,301

Italy

From one of Sicily's most powerful wine co-ops, this blend of Syrah and Nero d'Avola offers pretty fruit intensity, with layers of red cherry and blackberry. Subtle tones of spice, leather and bitter almond fill in the back.

87

30

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

23,690

US

Dried lemon peels and a hint of butter-fried apples show on the nose. Strong lemon acidity drives the palate, with a touch of sea salt and stone fruit proving very familiar.

87

30

California

Chardonnay

23,155

Italy

Still young and nervous, this opens with aromas of resin, pressed rose petal, dark berry and a whiff of coffee. The tightly packed palate offers a ripe black cherry core backed up by notes of sage and anise. It's still tense, with youthfully assertive tannins that need to loosen up. Drink 2018–2025.

90

37

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

129,823

France

Aromas of ripe yellow fruits announce a wine that has rich fruit flavors of apricots touched by pineapple. It does have the attractive, nervy texture of 2008, along with an important layer of toast.

89

65

Burgundy

Chardonnay

113,312

Italy

Subdued aromas of toast and red berry lead the way on this easygoing red. The simple, rather diluted palate offers sour cherry and a hint of spice alongside soft, fleeting tannins and fresh acidity.

85

18

Tuscany

Red Blend

87,204

France

Soft and on the sweet side of Brut, this wine is dominated by Pinot Noir grown in the Côte de Bar, in the Aube region. It is round, smooth and rich in character, ready to drink with a crisp aftertaste.

86

45

Champagne

Champagne Blend

48,897

France

A beautiful wine, smooth, polished, with rounded corners. Its intense fruit is balanced and harmonizes well with the sweet tannins, the layers of wood and the red berry flavors. Certainly powerful, it impresses equally with the pleasure it will give in 7–10 years.

98

319

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

47,583

US

Clear, light and varietal, this wine ping-pongs between subtle cinnamon and Asian spice around dark cherry and earth, with a big, juicy hit of oak and intense tannin. It finishes full-figured and robustly concentrated.

88

38

California

Pinot Noir

87,206

Portugal

This wine is made to be enjoyed young and fruity—it is a ripe, generous and full-bodied blend of Douro red grapes. There is a dry edge of tannins which are cushioned by the rich black fruits and lifted by final acidity. Drink now.

86

13

Douro

Portuguese Red

19,739

US

This beautifully balanced, flavorful wine combines vivid watermelon and canteloupe flavors with medium body, a rich texture and lingering finish. It has great concentration without being heavy.

91

22

California

Rosé

93,313

US

A pleasant sipper for drinking now, with citrus fruit, Asian-pear and peach flavors, accented by acidity. This 100% Sauvignon was unoaked.

86

15

California

White Blend

42,391

US

A stunning return to the quality that was seen in 2008, this superb effort bursts onto the palate with brambly berries, sweet herbs, coffee grounds and somewhat stiff, but polished, tannins. It's complex, with a touch of earthiness and generous length. The label reads Willamette Valley, though the vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA.

93

58

Oregon

Pinot Noir

75,172

France

This is a heavily Merlot dominated wine, hence the high alcohol. The effect, though, is of a wine that is fruity and with a crisp edge of black currant juice. It is young, spicy from wood aging and finishes with a stalky aftertaste.

86

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

29,760

France

This sweet soft wine is lightly perfumed and gentle on the palate. Crushed strawberry flavors have just the lightest acidity to keep the wine from being cloying. Drink now.

83

13

Loire Valley

Rosé

114,248

US

Red cherry, a touch of cinnamon, purple flowers and baked vanilla cookies show on the nose of this wine. Black cherry and gingerbread spice consume the palate, which also offers a rocky minerality and a vanilla foam finish.

88

62

California

Barbera

25,546

Italy

Classic scents of dark-skinned berry, chopped herb, dark spice and new leather take the lead in this wine. On the firm elegant palate, youthfully assertive, noble tannins support dried Marasca cherry, licorice and clove flavors while bright acidity lends balance.

92

38

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

87,668

US

Initially dense and brooding, this wine reveals lightly etched layers of cherry and strawberry on the palate. Just the right accent of earthy dirt and stone round out the finish.

88

45

California

Pinot Noir

75,123

Italy

Made entirely from Sangiovese, it has earthy aromas of tilled soil, blue flower, ripe berry and notes of balsamic herbs. The palate offers juicy black cherry, white pepper, dried Mediterranean herbs and coffee bean alongside firm but ripe tannins. Straightforward and accessible now, it is not an ager so enjoy soon. Guido & Son Italian Imports, Old Bridge Cellars.

87

20

Tuscany

Sangiovese

89,130

US

This is a 100% Cabernet, grown further north than the winery's amazing Rockaway bottling, which is to say in a hotter area. Comparisons are inevitable. Although it's rich and even dramatic, it's not as impressive a wine, showing a raisiny edge to the black currants and chocolate. Doesn't have the balance for aging, so drink now with upscale beef and lamb dishes.

88

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

112,943

France

Crisp and with a strongly mineral character, this is a young, textured wine. As it softens and gets the ripeness of the vintage, it will become smooth and rich. Drink from late 2017.

87

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

119,119

US

Blackberry, tobacco, dried purple flowers and bloody meats greet the nose on this solid wine from pioneering winegrower Louis Lucas and his retired judge partner, Royce Lewellen. The palate shows black cherries and plums, with complexity added by tobacco and pepper spice. The flavors come in and go out quickly, proving clean and fresh.

88

26

California

Syrah

41,244

US

A lovely wine, rich and balanced and crisp, that shows how sometimes an offbeat blend can be better than a varietal wine. Made from Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer and Viognier, it's deliciously off-dry. Each variety brings something to the table, resulting in a whole that's superior to its parts.

91

26

California

White Blend

40,664

US

Black pepper, graphite and reluctant boysenberry notes balance the rubbery funk on the nose of this cool-climate Syrah. It's fairly light on the palate, with just-ripe boysenberry and chopped Italian herbs.

85

32

California

Syrah

36,669

Portugal

This is a new style for Redoma, smoother and fruitier when young than in the past. Old vines give concentration and extra richness, making it velvet-textured and packed with black fruits, This will be an impressive wine as it ages. Drink from 2019.

92

48

Douro

Portuguese Red

66,408

France

This still tastes impressively young for a simple Chablis. In fact it isn't simple at all, showing all the intensity of a premier cru with its minerality, fresh lime and other citrus flavors, hints of honey and white fruits.

89

32

Burgundy

Chardonnay

40,066

Italy

Clean, simple and correct, this wine offers an excellent window into the Nebbiolo grape. From a young vintage and free of the aromas and textures associated with long aging in wood, this bright wine focuses on quality of fruit and fresh berry aromas backed by crispness and good structure.

87

20

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

27,662

Italy

This happy blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet and Merlot delivers delicate blueberry nuances and warm toast. It's a wine that flows over the palate, leaving it clean and refreshed.

90

20

Tuscany

Red Blend

93,376

Italy

This offers aromas of baked earth, pressed rose, dark cooking spice and mature plum. The bright palate offers black cherry, raspberry, clove and anise accompanied by vibrant acidity. Enjoy through 2016.

87

35

Piedmont

Barbera

8,691

US

The aromas bring appeal, with notes of sour cherry, herbs and spice. The palate is light bodied, tart and elegant, with a coffee-filled finish. It's a pretty expression of the variety.

88

25

Washington

Sangiovese

125,732

France

While this has a tight corset of freshness and structure, expressive notes of peach show their exuberance. The palate again reveals tautness, shot through with lemon purity while the peach delightfully plays around them.

91

22

Alsace

Riesling

8,449

Argentina

This opens with persuasive aromas of wild berry and cassis before cola and leather notes enter. It's a powerfully built Malbec with bright acidity, strong bones and pure, bold flavors of blackberry and black cherry. This is youthful and more fruit focused than the oakier DJN 2006 Reserva Malbec.

92

32

Mendoza Province

Malbec

48,340

US

There's no denying this wine's appeal with its aromas and flavors of dark fruit, café au lait, earth and herbs. It's restrained yet flavorful, with a lingering, coffee-filled finish.

90

28

Washington

Syrah

53,023

US

This Cabernet is a mixed bag. It's oaky and also fruity, but a little vegetal, with some green notes alongside sweet raspberry and cherry candy and caramel flavors. A real disappointment, coming after a series of good bottlings, but the vintage was difficult.

86

135

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

12,293

France

The beauty of Krug's rosé is the sense of bottle age, of that extra richness. That means the wine is not just the sum of its delicious red berry fruits. It's also the way the wine is rounded out, filled with secondary flavors, toast and almonds and a taut minerality. The aftertaste is taut, dry, seamless, complex.

94

400

Champagne

Champagne Blend

56,229

US

This full-bodied wine does a superb job of blending luscious fruit flavors of Anjou pear and fresh fig with a spice rack of nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon. Good concentration and depth help it feel full and creamy on the palate and extend the finish nicely.

91

18

California

Chardonnay

116,743

US

This wine is an intriguing blend of three-quarters Cabernet Sauvignon, with the rest Syrah (20%) and Grenache. Aromas of café au lait, exotic spice, vanilla, wood notes and black cherries lead to tangy cherry flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins.

89

40

Washington

Red Blend

68,597

Italy

Pinot Grigio Unterebner offers a beautiful contrast between cool-climate aromas of white flower and passion fruit and spicy, oak-driven aromas of vanilla and cinnamon bun. Pair this wine with a savory appetizer strudel filled with spinach, cheese and pine nuts.

90

31

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

29,861

US

This Cab is in a bit of a hole now, caught midway between the fresh fruitiness of youth, and what it will be at the age of, say, ten years. It feels very soft and dense, with blackberry, cassis, chocolate and funky leather flavors. You're best off leaving it in the cellar for another 5–6 years.

89

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

81,457

US

Coming from cool Edna Valley, the acidity is here, even in this hot vintage, and so is the clean, long hangtime fruit. The wine bursts with blackberries, cherries, plums and wilder notes of unidentified forest berries and sweet, smoky leather. Drink now, for its complex, juicy youthfulness.

89

25

California

Syrah

22,646

US

The name comes from a Django tune, and also means “clouds” in French. Nothing cloudy here though—it's a pretty, lively, fruit-driven blend with cherry candy flavors. Crisp and fresh, a streak of cola runs comet-like through the tail, along with a hint of mint.

88

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

59,720

US

This wine offers baked flavors of red raspberry, black cherry and grapy plum. It finds its balance between juicy approachability and a swat of tannin that provides depth and body. It finishes ripe and with a suggestion of char.

88

45

California

Pinot Noir

14,651

Italy

This Brut style Prosecco from Gancia (one of the most historic producers of this popular Italian sparkling wine) offers fresh floral aromas backed by drying mineral tones and pulpy notes of peach and apricot. The finish is crisp, cleansing and tonic.

86

11

Veneto

Glera

40,868

US

Intensely ripe cherry and berry flavors mark this plush, softly structured rosé. It's easygoing, fruity style is approachable.

84

16

New York

Merlot

107,964

Spain

Solid up front, with sweet and spicy aromas of plum, vanilla and candied berry. Feels full and good, with weight and thickness boosting up toasty, woody berry flavors. Dries out on the finish, leaving spice and a resiny taste. Drink now through 2014.

88

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

24,935

France

This blend of 50% Mourvèdre and 50% Syrah shows some deep, plummy aromas and flavors and blackberries, spice and cola. It's medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a touch of warmth on the finish. Drink now–2014.

88

28

Provence

Rhône-style Red Blend

23,745

US

A very good Mendocino County Cabernet, Kimmel is tightly tannic with an elegant backbeat. The palate is very savory in its cranberry, herb and dark berry fruit flavors. Full bodied with layers of concentration, the wine's still young; give it time to open and develop.

88

48

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

103,487

Germany

Sweet and lush in the house style, but lighter on its feet than many of the other bottlings from Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler, this kabinett shows some intriguing fumé-like notes on the nose, then delivers ripe melon and pear fruit on the palate. Finishes long.

90

25

Mosel

Riesling

43,202

Italy

Lamaione is Frescobaldi's flagship Merlot and this vintage is especially plush and velvety. The wine's nose recalls inky berry juice, exotic spice and soft tones of leather and tobacco. The finish is long and satisfying, supported by the wine's dense structure.

93

60

Tuscany

Merlot

49,091

US

It's difficult to find a good California Pinot for under $20, but this bottling pulls it off. The wine is silky, crisp and clean, with delicious raspberry, cherry, oak and spice flavors. It's an affordable wine to introduce a new generation to the joys of Pinot Noir.

87

17

California

Pinot Noir

109,839

US

Mocha, baked plum and black pepper play equal roles in this stunning, full-bodied beauty from the famous site, all within a tightly focused, integrated experience of seamless texture and structure. Richly concentrated and yet able to find a balance of acidity and freshness within its voluptuous nature, this wine impresses from end to end and will do well in the cellar; enjoy best from 2023 to 2025.

97

175

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

103,187

US

Salty and savory, this unfiltered wine conveys a lot of wet stone and petrol character. The dark golden color reveals its time in oak. Concentrated and full-bodied, with rich layers of baked apple and pear, it shows a complexity on the palate and a depth of lingering fruit and ginger on the finish.

93

130

California

Chardonnay

73,208

Spain

Raisiny aromas are rich and gritty. Pounding tannins and a beam of acidity drive the palate, which brings flavors of oaky baked fruits and black licorice. A jammy finish with baked berry and raisiny flavors confirms that this is extremely ripe and ready to drink now.

86

17

Catalonia

Red Blend

36,245

US

A fascinatingly flavorful wine by South African Ernst Storm, this shows very perfumed apple peels, pungent green pears and telltale grass shavings on the nose, all lifted by white pepper, wet thyme and hints of dried peaches. The incredibly vibrant palate, with lots of energy and acidity yet not in a biting way, offers flavors of rainy cement, limestone, Granny Smith apple skins and more grass.

92

35

California

Sauvignon Blanc

111,980

US

A rich, decadent and generous wine, 100% varietal, this is both floral and fruity, bright in cherry and raspberry alongside herbal cedar and vanilla. A medium weight surrounds softly integrated tannins, leading the way to an explosive, juicy finish. This is a classic example of the appellation's prowess in approachable power.

93

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

15,348

France

As its 14.5% indicates, this is a particularly rich wine. Maybe too rich, because it is all superripe black fruit without the balance of structure or acidity. Enjoy it as a blockbuster, probably not with food.

84

17

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

54,451

US

This Chardonnay is marked by tart acidity, lemon and pear flavors and oak. While it's technically dry, it has a honeyed note that suggests Asian fare, or Sunday brunch with a cheese omelet.

87

28

California

Chardonnay

110,818

US

More delicate and dainty in mousse than other bottlings from Château Frank, this blanc de blancs calibrates gossamer layers of pristine apple, pear and citrus flavors against spine-tingling acidity. It's breathlessly vivacious and penetrates long with a touch of sugar cookie crumbles.

90

30

New York

Chardonnay

61,036

US

Fans of fruity Pinot Noirs will love this one, with its sweet raspberry and cherry jam flavors. Beyond that, there's not much going on. It's silky in texture, with a boost of acidity.

84

20

California

Pinot Noir

944

US

Sharply defined, this has piercing, penetrating high notes that are both floral and fruity. Its lemon and tangerine fruit is amped up with some alcoholic burn. Aerating it helps to smooth it out.

87

27

Oregon

Viognier

125,289

US

The latest entrant into the Napa Cabernet sweepstakes succeeds with this flashy wine. Made from grapes grown in the warm Vaca Hills east of the Silverado Trail, this wine impresses immediately with aromatics of black currants, mocha and lightly toasted French oak. In the mouth, it's pure Cabernet pleasure, with soft, compelling tannins and fine acidity. It's a dramatic wine that should develop well over the next 10 years, if not longer. This is a winery to watch.

94

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

1,338

France

This blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah is attractively fruity. It has a crisp texture that gives it a bright character, red-currant fruitiness and intense refreshing acidity. The aftertaste is elegant and fruity. The wine's name (meaning to dare) is an anagram of Rosé. Drink now.

90

21

Provence

Rosé

43,966

Spain

Not too loud or vocal on the nose; it offers basic but entirely attractive ripe berry aromas. Tastes like blackberry and black cherry, with ample oak adding chocolate and vanilla flavors. Baked and rich tasting but it dries out well on the finish. 375 cases made; drink now through 2016.

91

85

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

122,695

US

They can't call the grapes old vine, because the vineyard is only 15 years old. But it was planted from clones that constituted an old vineyard that contained Petite Sirah, Carignane, Mataro and Alicante Bouschet. The wine is robust and rustic, with bright, briary berry fruit and spice flavors that will stand up well against any roasted meats.

88

22

California

Zinfandel

27,847

US

Steve Clifton captures freshness and vibrancy like few winemakers. This bottling shows deep and inviting tones of olallieberry, dill, anise, lavender and lilac on the nose. Powerful boysenberry fruit is lifted by spicy black pepper and even a chile zest on the palate, where strong acidity and firm tannins ensure long aging potential. It still needs a little time.

92

40

California

Barbera

52,546

US

The stylish label puts this in the “bro” wine category, yet it's quite a good get for the price. Light aromas of crushed cherry candies, charred wood and fresh chopped mint drop into a palate laden with cherries and menthol. It's a nice, easy and not overpowering wine.

87

20

California

Zinfandel

40,472

US

Despite its light-as-a-feather demeanor, a crush of bright red cherry and cranberry flavors pulsate from this dazzling Cabernet Franc. It's refreshingly thirst quenching, yet elegant enough to savor through a long, herb and bramble-toned finish. Drink now through 2016.

91

19

New York

Cabernet Franc