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
19,471	US	Hints of tropical fresh fuit and flowers lends an exotic touch to this pretty wine, and on the palate, it offers balanced elements of crisp fruit and spicy oak. Not terribly complex but a friendly food wine.	85	13	New York	Chardonnay
23,819	France	There is an almost tropical touch to the apple and lemon fruit: this is almost like vanilla-spiced apple tart with lemon zest. Very appetizing with that unusual vanilla-edge and more of that tropical lychee. Overall, this is balanced and very fruit-driven.	89	32	Alsace	Riesling
4,168	US	Equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the aromas start out quiet, with notes of cherry, wood spice and dark fruit. The flavors are reserved and polished, showing an exquisite sense of balance and a lingering finish.	92	42	Washington	Red Blend
84,509	France	The wine is rounded and rich, balancing some signs of mature toastiness with ripe white fruits and citrus. A tight, citrus character gives a tense structure, mineral and chalky. Typical of Paillard's wines, the bubbles of the mousse are tiny, the result of lower pressure in the bottle.	91	68	Champagne	Chardonnay
83,901	US	Scents of plum and cassis lead into a tart wine with acidic, tannic, black cherry fruit flavors. The acids are quite chalky, and the tannins chewy and slightly green.	83	24	Oregon	Cabernet Sauvignon
35,360	US	This is a barrel selection, and as such, may be expected to show extra layers of concentration—more stuffing overall. It's a rich, smoky, lush wine, with a complex mix of red fruits ranging from rhubarb to raspberry to Bing cherries. Spicy highlights and a frame of orange peel also enter the picture. You might wish to give this another couple of years of bottle age before popping the cork. Drink 2018–2025.	92	100	Oregon	Pinot Noir
91,559	US	Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot each make up 40% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc. The aromas suggest notes of herbs, fruit leather and anise that are followed by tart, palate-coating cranberry flavors, with celery notes on the finish.	88	40	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
29,579	US	Flat but clean, with very light and distant apricot and celery aromas. The flavors veer toward green apple and lemon, while the finish is bland. From a texture standpoint, it's watery, with only modest fruit quality.	82	13	Oregon	Pinot Gris
100,564	Italy	Stalky underbrush, crushed violet and woodland berry aromas lead the way. The brisk palate offers tart cherry, clove, a hint of chopped herb and an orange zest note alongside racy acidity. Tightly knit tannins leave a firm finish.	87	27	Tuscany	Sangiovese
107,295	US	This wine was aged 15 months sur lee in all-new French oak. The barrel aromas and flavors are in the lead, with notes of vanilla, butterscotch and spice followed by pear. It's creamy in feel but with an elegant styling.	90	26	Washington	Chardonnay
40,135	Argentina	Savory, grapy aromas include gamy notes and an herbal influence. A choppy, abrupt palate is gravelly in feel. Herbal plum and cranberry flavors are meaty and a touch green on the finish. For a Malbec that's not just about black fruits and oak, give this a shot.	87	13	Mendoza Province	Malbec
3,213	Spain	This straightforward, perfectly clean blend of Carignan, Syrah and Garnacha would function as a great everyday house red. It's lively and a little racy and grating on the palate, with standard, fresh berry flavors touched up by a sprinkle of chocolaty oak. A modest finish keeps the vibe positive.	88	12	Catalonia	Red Blend
9,950	US	The first vintage from this estate vineyard, this is quite light, especially as the 2011 vintage was cool. It shows the delicate structure at which Pinot Noir excels. It's aromatic and varietal, very well made, and a good bottle for any roasted small bird such as squab or quail.	87	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
125,196	France	This refreshing wine comes from one of the Premier Cru sites on the north-facing bank of the Serein river. It's structured, tight and full of fine acidity and grapefruit and crisp apple flavors. Its texture and mineral character will allow it to age. Drink from 2019.	93	35	Burgundy	Chardonnay
97,694	US	This is a blend of 90% Tempranillo, with the balance of Garnacha and Graciano. It's from one of the new appellations in Lodi. Seems like there's a soft, dry, complex wine in there, with cherry and herb flavors, but too much oak weighs it down and makes it heavy.	85	25	California	Tempranillo
112,055	Argentina	Blackberry, oak, spice and chocolate aromas are dealt in equal parts. This feels ripe and fairly plush. Flavors of burnt toast, black pepper and charred wood lead secondary fruit notes across the palate and onto the finish.	89	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
24,661	Italy	Mildly grassy in the nose, with accents of fig, melon and citrus rind. It's got some hay and funky earthiness to the otherwise tangy, citrus-driven palate. The acidity isn't overpowering, so the mouthfeel is a bit creamy. Overall it's a good mainstream wine unlikely to offend anyone.	88	19	Northeastern Italy	Sauvignon Blanc
73,406	Argentina	Woody and smelling of sawdust early, this four-grape blend eases toward roasted berry, cassis, herbal plum and molten chocolate. It's massive and structured, with a big-boned skeleton and heat on the leathery, roasted finish due to 15.5% alcohol. Big, fiery, saucy and lusty, but short on refinement and elegance.	89	25	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
77,765	US	This wine seems a bit reduced right out of the bottle. Give it plenty of oxygen, and light blueberry fruit flavors emerge. The aging in 60% new French oak brings in a lot of barrel flavors that seem mismatched with the light fruit.	86	30	Washington	Syrah
84,802	US	This lively wine is sourced from the excellent Boushey vineyard in Washington's Yakima valley. The deep blackberry fruit is ripe and tasty; and the tannins nicely smoothed out with a dusty, chocolaty finish.	89	36	Washington	Syrah
3,450	US	This is a light-bodied and full-flavored wine with a good, gripping texture and plenty of ripe plum and black pepper aromas. A fruity and beefy flavor carries through the finish.	88	10	California	Merlot
83,427	Italy	This full-bodied blend of 50% Cabernet, 20% Petit Verdot, 20% Syrah and 15% Merlot delivers aromas and flavors of black currant, tobacco, licorice, clove and dried mint. Tightly wound, dusty tannins offer support and need time to unwind. Drink 2017–2022.	90	76	Tuscany	Red Blend
72,664	US	Made with 75% Sangiovese, with the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera, this wine has aromas of barrel spices, coffee, dark raspberries and herbs. It's medium bodied with plump fruit flavors, tart acids and a lightly chalky feel.	86	12	Washington	Red Blend
124,796	US	Hints of smoke and vanilla add complexity to notes of dried cherry and autumn leaves in this earthy, umami-rich Pinot Noir. Aged three years in barrel, this late-release wine is silken and rich on the palate with just a flurry of tannins on the finish.	88	30	New York	Pinot Noir
79,780	US	Sourced entirely from the Winter's Hill vineyard, this is a lively mix of raspberry, lime, pineapple and cherry candy. Young and tart, it needs more time to flesh out and show more detail. Currently the baking spice accents from aging in one-third new oak, appealing as they are, stick out a bit. Give this until 2016 or so to bottle age.	90	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
3,336	US	Dusty mineral and earth tones lend a savory feel to delicate cherry and red-plum flavors in this pale pink rosé. Bright, fresh raspberry-lemonade acidity bristles on the palate.	84	13	New York	Rosé
4,004	France	A fruity wine, it shows ripe red berries, red currants and refreshing acidity. So while the wine has weight, it is also totally fresh and crisp. It's a rosé for food, rich while balanced.	88	20	Provence	Rosé
114,850	US	This is a combination of 2003 Petite Sirah, as well as Syrah from both 2001 and 2004. Vineyards from Spring Mountain comprise a majority of the blend. The multi-vintage approach works well, for the wine has the softness and bouquet of an older wine, with the fresh, ripe fruit and acidity of a young one. Raspberries, cherries, blueberries, plums and sweet leather and Asian spices are the main flavors.	91	38	California	Red Blend
33,012	US	Some unripe vegetal flavors mar this blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah. It's softly tannic, and what fruit there is suggests sweetened cherry pie.	85	34	California	Red Blend
22,174	US	With an edge of sweet red currants and slightly sugared herb tea, this Zin can't really be called completely dry. But the tannin-acid balance is very fine, and makes the wine balanced and enjoyable. Should be great with pasta with a marinara sauce.	87	25	California	Zinfandel
92,716	France	Warm, rich, with a southern Chardonnay ripeness, this shows high toast, but also ripe tropical fruit. The acidity is light, with a creamy texture, and added spice and richness. It's a harmonious style that needs 3–4 years.	91	58	Burgundy	Chardonnay
30,729	Germany	There's an intense minerality that reverberates from nose to finish on this off-dry Riesling. On the palate, sunny lemon and honey notes are accented by a steely streak of lime and steel that linger on the finish.	88	20	Mosel	Riesling
117,797	France	Like all wines from this producer, the fruit from this five-acre vineyard has been grown biodynamically. That explains both the clean lines of the wine and its beautiful ripe fruitiness. The yellow fruits and generous texture are deliciously full in the mouth. Drink this fine wine from 2018.	92	33	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
107,394	US	Stewed olallieberries and black cherries gain nuance from concentrated red rose petals, cola and gravel on this wine from Riverside County. Like many of this winery's bottlings, the palate shows lots of barrel influence, with strong vanilla elements laced amidst blueberry and lighter red fruits.	88	48	California	Syrah
95,893	Spain	Baked, saucy aromas suggest the wine's overall character. It's ripe and stewy, with a grippy palate and a flavor profile full of tomato, herbs and red plum. Tastes herbal and roasted on the finish; aggressive, savory Rioja.	84	40	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
91,375	US	Spicy in vanilla cola, this vineyard-designate does justice to the variety, imparting thick rich characteristics of smoky oak, mocha, blueberry and plum. It maintains an undercurrent of herbal underbrush that balances nicely against the fruit.	88	43	California	Cabernet Franc
118,306	Italy	Citrus blossom and orchard fruit aromas lead the way. On the round, medium-bodied palate, tangy acidity supports ripe yellow apple and pear flavors. A hint of citrus zest marks the close.	89	25	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
90,717	Italy	Grilled herb, underbrush toasted hazelnut and stewed prune aromas meld together along with a floral note. The juicy, structured palate presents fleshy Morello cherry, raspberry, star anise, clove and a hint of orange zest alongside firm, polished tannins that give this a smooth mouthfeel.	92	41	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
118,111	US	Bright aromas of toast, spice and pear are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors that persist on the finish.	88	25	Washington	Chardonnay
62,706	Germany	Delicate quince and apple aromas are fringed with foresty notes of pine needles on this bright, medium-sweet Riesling. It's brisk and breezy on the palate, with sweet apple flavor struck with vivacious lemon-lime acidity.	87	13	Mosel	Riesling
82,218	Spain	Mild citrus aromas are clean and fresh. A tight, pure palate of crisp acidity is par for good Cava, while this basic brut deals a sampling of white-fruit flavors rolled into one.	87	12	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
29,547	France	With some weight, this has raspberry flavor to go with its sweetness. Berry fruits dominate in a wine that is full in the mouth.	84	16	Loire Valley	Rosé
43,437	France	Light and attractively spicy, the wine is off dry, with a touch of honey, apricots and dried fruits. The texture, soft and tangy, is peppery while the acidity is already well integrated. It's an attractive, ready to drink wine.	87	25	Alsace	Pinot Gris
81,231	US	On the sharp and lean side, showing sour red cherry candy, wintergreen and green peppercorn flavors, fattened with sweet oak. Dry and elegant, but not very rich. Drink up.	86	56	California	Pinot Noir
41,557	France	This wine is firm with powerful surface tannins. Underneath, its blackberry-like fruit is developing, bringing out spice, acidity and plenty of weight. Drink from 2020.	88	24	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
27,707	Italy	L'Erpico is a dense and meaty expression of Sangiovese from Montecucco (coastal Tuscany) that opens with ripe cherry, blackberry and meaty tones of bacon and moist earth. There's an interesting juxtaposition in the mouth of sweet versus sour fruit flavors.	88	29	Tuscany	Sangiovese
57,955	US	Black cherry fruits sink even deeper into blackberry jam on this nose, which is leveled by vanilla and black licorice. It's chunky and sticky once sipped, with blueberry juice and chocolate-chip elements that are cut with anise-like herbs. Espresso shows on the finish, which is slightly sour and bitter.	87	45	California	Merlot
47,663	Spain	Briny notes of pickled cabbage and cider seem alarming at first but prove to be misleading. This is quite elegant, lifted and clean on the palate, while mature flavors of sourdough bread, apple, pear and dry spices finish smooth and long. Drink now.	91	39	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
33,235	US	This is a richly textured but straightforward Chardonnay. It's soft on the palate with buttered toast, cream, pineapple, vanilla and lime flavors.	85	32	California	Chardonnay
80,010	US	Pretty and perfumed it exhibits dark cherry from start to finish. Spice and cola notes explode midway through, and that see-saw balance between fruit and spice persists into the finish. Round and soft, with a lean texture, it's very enjoyable.	90	36	California	Pinot Noir
60,552	Australia	Starts with scents of pear and melon, butter and spice, but takes on an ever-larger oak presence in the mouth, adding more and more wood spice and cedar. Not sure if this will ever completely integrate, so the best bet seems to be drinking earlier rather than later.	88	30	South Australia	Chardonnay
58,286	France	A blend of Grenache, Carignan and Mourvèdre, this is a driven by its bright black cherry flavors, although there are enough spicy, savory notes to add complexity. It's medium-bodied, with crisp acids and firm tannins, making it a candidate to match with rare beef or lamb.	86	19	Provence	Rhône-style Red Blend
93,246	US	This distinguished Cabernet deserves its reserve status. It shows the softness and herbal quality of Alexander Valley, along with rich tiers of red currants, cherry pie and mocha flavors. The tannic structure gives it special complexity. Now through 2012.	92	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
96,283	Australia	Despite it's considerable size, this silky wine is fresh and vibrant. Black currants and cherries lead the way, tinged with herbal notes suggestive of mint and lavender. Drink now–2020.	89	20	South Australia	Cabernet Sauvignon
12,166	US	Elegant and in balance, despite its powerful mix of ripeness and tension, this wine offers cranberry, thyme, oregano, graphite and tar. All combine for a savory succulence of intrigue and deliciousness, finishing in a length of black pepper.	91	32	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
11,879	US	Thick and lemony, this is a juicy fruit-powered style. It places its power squarely on plush fruit flavors of Meyer lemon, candied orange peel and candied pineapple. It saw no oak and needed none. Drink while it's at its freshest.	90	20	Oregon	Viognier
78,905	US	A pretty shade of pale pink, this dry and spicy rosé has a boisterous personality. Its watermelon and strawberry flavors come with a kick, showing real depth. Juicy acidity keeps it fresh and forward.	90	28	Oregon	Pinot Noir
50,390	Spain	At first this is lactic and heavy, but later it becomes charred and toasty. Its feel is full, round and fairly smooth, with baked plum, berry, vanilla and chocolate flavors. The finish is toasty and solid. Good for a 50,000-case production.	86	13	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
98,474	US	True to the winery's style, this wine pulls no punches, with aromas of black licorice, dark cherries and woodspice. It's rich and full bodied with a grainy feel.	91	28	Washington	Red Blend
3,369	US	In this inaugural release, winemaker James MacPhail travels to the far reaches of Annapolis to source grapes from the true wilderness, the site next door to Goldrock Ridge Vineyard. Made in a full-bodied style, this wine is intriguing in dried herb, black pepper and forest floor, with a healthy, lengthy seasoning of savory black tea.	92	65	California	Pinot Noir
4,862	US	Made in a thick, oaky style, this shows burned caramel, fudge and hints of dried mint and oregano on the nose. The palate is rich with blueberry and dark chocolate, wrapped in a veil of oak smoke, with chunky, chewy tannins and a purple-flower nuance.	87	35	California	Cabernet Franc
21,613	US	A lush Cabernet that feels soft and delicious right now, but has layers of complexity that make it a cellar candidate. Dry and oaky, the wine is enormously rich in blackberry, cassis, cocoa and cedar flavors, with considerable tannins. The wine is wonderfully balanced. Drink now through 2010, at least.	93	90	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
59,286	Spain	This is a modern-styled, young Priorat with driving, focused aromas of ripe cherry, plum and cassis. The palate feel is total purity and silk, while smooth flavors of black cherry, nutmeg and cocoa blend with pepper, chocolate and mineral notes on what can best be described as a delicious finish. Drink now through 2016.	94	80	Catalonia	Red Blend
30,265	US	A perfectly fine, full-bodied red wine. Dry and tannic, it has ripe cherry and some overripe raisin and prune notes, wrapped into fancy tannins. Drink now.	86	34	California	Merlot
23,772	Italy	Delicate aromas of Spanish broom and pear come with a hint of nuts on the nose. The palate offers yellow peach, green apple and a mineral note alongside vibrant acidity and small, persistent bubbles.	89	19	Veneto	Glera
55,792	US	This is a solid wine from a new appellation, offering much promise for vintages to come. Baked red cherry, smashed pomegranate, cinnamon and bay leaf play on the nose, while anise, light clove, strawberry, red plum and red apple vie for attention on the palate.	89	26	California	Pinot Noir
39,753	US	This wine is a unique blend of Syrah, Merlot, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre. It seems locked up, with aromas of pickling spices, smoke, berry and vanilla that are followed by broad blue and black-fruit flavors that provide appeal.	88	12	Washington	Red Blend
126,831	US	The Oliver red is a mix of Syrah, Petite Sirah and Grenache from the excellent Olsen and Stone Tree vineyards. At four years of age it seems to be flattening out. The blueberry and cassis fruit, along with substantial savory notes, are smooth but not quite as lively as past vintages. Drink now.	88	55	Washington	Red Blend
9,787	US	This is taut and dense, and requires time and air to untangle. Deep, dark fruits are mixed in with layers of black olive, smoke, compost, tar, moist earth and herb—a delicious mélange of flavors that promises good things to come as the wine ages. It's masterful winemaking in a package so young and wrapped up tight that it may pass you by if you don't give it a good look.	92	44	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
32,140	Italy	Heady aromas of honeysuckle, white peach and green apple carry through to the vibrant palate along with lemon zest. It boasts crisp acidity and a lively perlage that lead to a dry refreshing close.	88	15	Veneto	Glera
6,164	US	The name refers to the fact that the wine was both fermented and aged in stainless steel barrels. Made with Dijon clones from two different vineyards, it's fruit-driven, nicely flavored, offering melon, apple and white peach in equal proportion. It's a well-balanced wine, with clean, fresh flavors and just the right amount of acid to keep you reaching for the next glass.	89	18	Oregon	Chardonnay
67,456	Italy	Dark berry, pressed flower, iron, leather and spice aromas come together on this firmly structured wine. The full-bodied palate delivers juicy black cherry, eucalyptus, anise and clove alongside big, velvety tannins. A licorice note closes the lingering finish. It's already almost approachable but hold for more complexity. Drink 2018–2028.	94	85	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
28,942	US	From Old Wente clones grown on the famous vineyard, this full-bodied, textured wine shows ripe elements of golden honey, Gravenstein apple and toasted vanilla oak. Along the way, it flirts nicely with pear and marzipan, finishing in balanced minerality.	90	40	California	Chardonnay
425	US	Blossom and berry notes are accented by hints of smoked nut in this refreshingly light-bodied wine. Zesty and lithe on the palate, it's an ideal summer-to-fall apéritif or porch sipper. The moderately long finish is marked with a hint of waxy florals.	89	18	New York	Rosé
1,170	Argentina	Apricot and oak aromas make for a smoky, slightly heavy bouquet. The wine keeps that weightiness as it passes from nectarine to citrus to tropical fruits. Long on the finish, with integrity. But it's also a bit citric in the center. “Pulpy” is another descriptor.	86	17	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
61,664	US	An earthy aroma, light apricot and lemon flavors and crisp, tangy texture add up to a lean, medium-bodied and refreshing wine made from Pinot Noir grapes.	87	20	California	Rosé
63,427	US	A strongly herbal take on the grape, this clonal combo shows bay leaf, eucalyptus and tarry earth notes on the nose. The palate kicks off with a red plum tang, settling into cranberry -inflected fruit before pine needle-laced forest floor flavors emerge with herbaceous power.	90	35	California	Pinot Noir
20,803	US	Fresh apple and pear aromas are accented with notes of white flowers on this delicate Pinot Grigio. It's bristling with lemon-lime acidity, but pleasantly concentrated citrus flavors, and just a hint of reeds on the finish.	86	16	New York	Pinot Grigio
106,328	France	A mineral-driven wine, this is tangy-zesty, with a tight texture. Great fruit shines through the crispness. Balanced, ripe and with some potential, the wine will be ready from late 2018.	88	25	Burgundy	Chardonnay
125,607	US	This is a full-bodied version of the variety and yet it rides a line of soft texture and floral aromatics that ground it in nice ways. Meaty and fruity in cherry, it finishes thick and rich.	90	34	California	Grenache
128,153	US	Ripe in plum, raspberry and leather this is a full-bodied, smooth and long-lived Syrah ripe in pepper and coffee. Pair with wintertime meals that are equally rich and savory.	90	32	California	Syrah
46,931	Germany	Pristine grapefruit and lemon are cloaked in savory notes of crushed mineral, pollen and fennel in this light-bodied Riesling. Off-dry and spry in style, it's lifted by a racy crush of lemon-lime acidity on the finish.	88	12	Mosel	Riesling
40,517	US	Like Petite Sirah's rustic power? You'll love this lusty wine. It's dark, tannic and dry, with massive blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate and oak flavors that finish with hints of bacon and black pepper. Will age forever, but your window is now and through 2018.	88	24	California	Petite Sirah
91,358	Argentina	This very ripe, jammy blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah smells rich and concentrated. In the mouth, however, it's syrupy and low in acidity, while flavors of cassis and blueberry push up against candied before finishing dense and extremely ripe. Drink now through 2019.	91	45	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
105,543	US	Softened by the addition of 13% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, this wine leads with smoky oak and baked bread aromas, followed by cassis and mocha notes. Medium bodied, with a seamless texture, it adds baked cherry, cedar and tomato leaf components with measured richness.	92	58	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
124,872	US	This wine is a blend of 50% Syrah aged for 40 months in new American oak, with the other half Cabernet Sauvignon aged in new Slovakian oak. Aromas of cardamom, green pepper, cherry, vanilla and anise are followed by abundant baking-spice accents backed by tart fruit flavors. Barrel notes take over the finish.	88	38	Washington	Red Blend
84,012	US	This is full-bodied expression of the variety, big in oak and tannin presence, grippy still, with a leathery feel on the palate. Baked plum is seasoned by a hint of clove and cola, finishing expansively.	88	60	California	Pinot Noir
87,239	US	Smooth and chocolaty, this generous Cabernet brings plenty of chocolate-covered cherry flavors to the heart of the palate. Balanced and seamless, it follows the path of previous vintages. Drink it young for maximum enjoyment.	90	30	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
15,783	US	Many of Oregon's best winemakers are scrambling to acquire Shea grapes. This small-scale producer does a fine job. Its Shea designate is a captivating wine loaded with blueberry, blue plum, black raspberry and a touch of violets. One-third new French oak brings a vein of chocolate. The balance is impeccable. Drink this with enjoyment immediately, or cellar it through 2025.	94	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
41,980	France	An equal blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, this is the producer's nonvintage cuvée, soft and ripe. Balanced and crisp, it has attractive acidity under the light texture and tangy lemon-zest flavor. The bottling is ready to drink.	88	35	Champagne	Champagne Blend
81,340	US	This is an outstanding value in a Willamette Valley Pinot Noir—soft, subtle and spicy, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit. All neutral oak fermented, the mouthfeel is smooth and supple, and the flavors have a sexy, delicious quality that says “drink me now!”	91	22	Oregon	Pinot Noir
68,350	Italy	Subdued aromas suggesting forest floor, leather, stewed plum and exotic spice lead the nose. The dense concentrated palate shows black cherry extract, prune and licorice alongside compact tannins. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol.	89	90	Tuscany	Sangiovese
111,385	US	Though 100% Merlot, it seems more reminiscent of a Syrah with notes of blue fruit and ash. The flavors are light with chalky, mouthcoating tannins.	84	9	Washington	Merlot
59,563	US	This unusual Chardonnay is fermented and aged sur lie in 60 gallon stainless-steel barrels. The pleasant mix of fruit includes cucumber, melon, jicama and apple, balanced and tart. The color, already a fairly deep gold, suggests that you drink it soon.	87	20	Oregon	Chardonnay
83,165	France	A blend of Syrah and Grenache from organic vineyards gives a herbal, very southern taste to this ripe wine. It is still young and showing both acidity and a firm structure. As it develops further, it will get a rich, full and plummy character. Drink from 2017.	89	20	Provence	Red Blend
89,151	US	This blend of Syrah and Petite Sirah is made in a drink-me-now style that emphasizes sheer deliciousness. Soft and almost sweet, it dazzles with pastry-filling cherries and raspberries, with exotic touches of cocoa, anise and cinnamon. Tannins provide a sturdy architecture, but they're ripe and accessible.	89	70	California	Red Blend
82,036	US	Rick Longoria chooses a new artist every two years to illustrate this label. This vintage features 40% Cabernet Franc, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Syrah and 18% Merlot, resulting in cranberry, red cherry and dried herbs notes, with a touch of eucalyptus and pine sap. The palate offers woody cedar and juniper flavors along with tart cherry fruit.	88	30	California	Red Blend
26,373	US	One of the best Californian Pinot Gris currently available, this is rich, creamy and complex, and it would make for a great alternative to Chardonnay. This wine traditionally ages in used oak, which imparts just a hint of wood-driven sweetness to the pear, peach, mango and lime flavors.	90	22	California	Pinot Gris
101,988	Argentina	Opens with fairly deep blackberry aromas, but there's also a stemmy edge to the bouquet. Generic flavors of baked plum and berry are lifted by slicing acids, while the finish bounces along before ending with some straightforward chocolate and berry notes.	85	14	Mendoza Province	Malbec
99,307	US	Tough in tannins, with an astringent, lockdown quality. That's the iron fist of this wine. The velvet glove is the rich, flamboyant core of blackberries and cassis. Give this young wine at least six years to come around.	92	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon

19,471

US

Hints of tropical fresh fuit and flowers lends an exotic touch to this pretty wine, and on the palate, it offers balanced elements of crisp fruit and spicy oak. Not terribly complex but a friendly food wine.

85

13

New York

Chardonnay

23,819

France

There is an almost tropical touch to the apple and lemon fruit: this is almost like vanilla-spiced apple tart with lemon zest. Very appetizing with that unusual vanilla-edge and more of that tropical lychee. Overall, this is balanced and very fruit-driven.

89

32

Alsace

Riesling

4,168

US

Equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the aromas start out quiet, with notes of cherry, wood spice and dark fruit. The flavors are reserved and polished, showing an exquisite sense of balance and a lingering finish.

92

42

Washington

Red Blend

84,509

France

The wine is rounded and rich, balancing some signs of mature toastiness with ripe white fruits and citrus. A tight, citrus character gives a tense structure, mineral and chalky. Typical of Paillard's wines, the bubbles of the mousse are tiny, the result of lower pressure in the bottle.

91

68

Champagne

Chardonnay

83,901

US

Scents of plum and cassis lead into a tart wine with acidic, tannic, black cherry fruit flavors. The acids are quite chalky, and the tannins chewy and slightly green.

83

24

Oregon

Cabernet Sauvignon

35,360

US

This is a barrel selection, and as such, may be expected to show extra layers of concentration—more stuffing overall. It's a rich, smoky, lush wine, with a complex mix of red fruits ranging from rhubarb to raspberry to Bing cherries. Spicy highlights and a frame of orange peel also enter the picture. You might wish to give this another couple of years of bottle age before popping the cork. Drink 2018–2025.

92

100

Oregon

Pinot Noir

91,559

US

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot each make up 40% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc. The aromas suggest notes of herbs, fruit leather and anise that are followed by tart, palate-coating cranberry flavors, with celery notes on the finish.

88

40

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

29,579

US

Flat but clean, with very light and distant apricot and celery aromas. The flavors veer toward green apple and lemon, while the finish is bland. From a texture standpoint, it's watery, with only modest fruit quality.

82

13

Oregon

Pinot Gris

100,564

Italy

Stalky underbrush, crushed violet and woodland berry aromas lead the way. The brisk palate offers tart cherry, clove, a hint of chopped herb and an orange zest note alongside racy acidity. Tightly knit tannins leave a firm finish.

87

27

Tuscany

Sangiovese

107,295

US

This wine was aged 15 months sur lee in all-new French oak. The barrel aromas and flavors are in the lead, with notes of vanilla, butterscotch and spice followed by pear. It's creamy in feel but with an elegant styling.

90

26

Washington

Chardonnay

40,135

Argentina

Savory, grapy aromas include gamy notes and an herbal influence. A choppy, abrupt palate is gravelly in feel. Herbal plum and cranberry flavors are meaty and a touch green on the finish. For a Malbec that's not just about black fruits and oak, give this a shot.

87

13

Mendoza Province

Malbec

3,213

Spain

This straightforward, perfectly clean blend of Carignan, Syrah and Garnacha would function as a great everyday house red. It's lively and a little racy and grating on the palate, with standard, fresh berry flavors touched up by a sprinkle of chocolaty oak. A modest finish keeps the vibe positive.

88

12

Catalonia

Red Blend

9,950

US

The first vintage from this estate vineyard, this is quite light, especially as the 2011 vintage was cool. It shows the delicate structure at which Pinot Noir excels. It's aromatic and varietal, very well made, and a good bottle for any roasted small bird such as squab or quail.

87

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

125,196

France

This refreshing wine comes from one of the Premier Cru sites on the north-facing bank of the Serein river. It's structured, tight and full of fine acidity and grapefruit and crisp apple flavors. Its texture and mineral character will allow it to age. Drink from 2019.

93

35

Burgundy

Chardonnay

97,694

US

This is a blend of 90% Tempranillo, with the balance of Garnacha and Graciano. It's from one of the new appellations in Lodi. Seems like there's a soft, dry, complex wine in there, with cherry and herb flavors, but too much oak weighs it down and makes it heavy.

85

25

California

Tempranillo

112,055

Argentina

Blackberry, oak, spice and chocolate aromas are dealt in equal parts. This feels ripe and fairly plush. Flavors of burnt toast, black pepper and charred wood lead secondary fruit notes across the palate and onto the finish.

89

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

24,661

Italy

Mildly grassy in the nose, with accents of fig, melon and citrus rind. It's got some hay and funky earthiness to the otherwise tangy, citrus-driven palate. The acidity isn't overpowering, so the mouthfeel is a bit creamy. Overall it's a good mainstream wine unlikely to offend anyone.

88

19

Northeastern Italy

Sauvignon Blanc

73,406

Argentina

Woody and smelling of sawdust early, this four-grape blend eases toward roasted berry, cassis, herbal plum and molten chocolate. It's massive and structured, with a big-boned skeleton and heat on the leathery, roasted finish due to 15.5% alcohol. Big, fiery, saucy and lusty, but short on refinement and elegance.

89

25

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

77,765

US

This wine seems a bit reduced right out of the bottle. Give it plenty of oxygen, and light blueberry fruit flavors emerge. The aging in 60% new French oak brings in a lot of barrel flavors that seem mismatched with the light fruit.

86

30

Washington

Syrah

84,802

US

This lively wine is sourced from the excellent Boushey vineyard in Washington's Yakima valley. The deep blackberry fruit is ripe and tasty; and the tannins nicely smoothed out with a dusty, chocolaty finish.

89

36

Washington

Syrah

3,450

US

This is a light-bodied and full-flavored wine with a good, gripping texture and plenty of ripe plum and black pepper aromas. A fruity and beefy flavor carries through the finish.

88

10

California

Merlot

83,427

Italy

This full-bodied blend of 50% Cabernet, 20% Petit Verdot, 20% Syrah and 15% Merlot delivers aromas and flavors of black currant, tobacco, licorice, clove and dried mint. Tightly wound, dusty tannins offer support and need time to unwind. Drink 2017–2022.

90

76

Tuscany

Red Blend

72,664

US

Made with 75% Sangiovese, with the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera, this wine has aromas of barrel spices, coffee, dark raspberries and herbs. It's medium bodied with plump fruit flavors, tart acids and a lightly chalky feel.

86

12

Washington

Red Blend

124,796

US

Hints of smoke and vanilla add complexity to notes of dried cherry and autumn leaves in this earthy, umami-rich Pinot Noir. Aged three years in barrel, this late-release wine is silken and rich on the palate with just a flurry of tannins on the finish.

88

30

New York

Pinot Noir

79,780

US

Sourced entirely from the Winter's Hill vineyard, this is a lively mix of raspberry, lime, pineapple and cherry candy. Young and tart, it needs more time to flesh out and show more detail. Currently the baking spice accents from aging in one-third new oak, appealing as they are, stick out a bit. Give this until 2016 or so to bottle age.

90

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

3,336

US

Dusty mineral and earth tones lend a savory feel to delicate cherry and red-plum flavors in this pale pink rosé. Bright, fresh raspberry-lemonade acidity bristles on the palate.

84

13

New York

Rosé

4,004

France

A fruity wine, it shows ripe red berries, red currants and refreshing acidity. So while the wine has weight, it is also totally fresh and crisp. It's a rosé for food, rich while balanced.

88

20

Provence

Rosé

114,850

US

This is a combination of 2003 Petite Sirah, as well as Syrah from both 2001 and 2004. Vineyards from Spring Mountain comprise a majority of the blend. The multi-vintage approach works well, for the wine has the softness and bouquet of an older wine, with the fresh, ripe fruit and acidity of a young one. Raspberries, cherries, blueberries, plums and sweet leather and Asian spices are the main flavors.

91

38

California

Red Blend

33,012

US

Some unripe vegetal flavors mar this blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah. It's softly tannic, and what fruit there is suggests sweetened cherry pie.

85

34

California

Red Blend

22,174

US

With an edge of sweet red currants and slightly sugared herb tea, this Zin can't really be called completely dry. But the tannin-acid balance is very fine, and makes the wine balanced and enjoyable. Should be great with pasta with a marinara sauce.

87

25

California

Zinfandel

92,716

France

Warm, rich, with a southern Chardonnay ripeness, this shows high toast, but also ripe tropical fruit. The acidity is light, with a creamy texture, and added spice and richness. It's a harmonious style that needs 3–4 years.

91

58

Burgundy

Chardonnay

30,729

Germany

There's an intense minerality that reverberates from nose to finish on this off-dry Riesling. On the palate, sunny lemon and honey notes are accented by a steely streak of lime and steel that linger on the finish.

88

20

Mosel

Riesling

117,797

France

Like all wines from this producer, the fruit from this five-acre vineyard has been grown biodynamically. That explains both the clean lines of the wine and its beautiful ripe fruitiness. The yellow fruits and generous texture are deliciously full in the mouth. Drink this fine wine from 2018.

92

33

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

107,394

US

Stewed olallieberries and black cherries gain nuance from concentrated red rose petals, cola and gravel on this wine from Riverside County. Like many of this winery's bottlings, the palate shows lots of barrel influence, with strong vanilla elements laced amidst blueberry and lighter red fruits.

88

48

California

Syrah

95,893

Spain

Baked, saucy aromas suggest the wine's overall character. It's ripe and stewy, with a grippy palate and a flavor profile full of tomato, herbs and red plum. Tastes herbal and roasted on the finish; aggressive, savory Rioja.

84

40

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

91,375

US

Spicy in vanilla cola, this vineyard-designate does justice to the variety, imparting thick rich characteristics of smoky oak, mocha, blueberry and plum. It maintains an undercurrent of herbal underbrush that balances nicely against the fruit.

88

43

California

Cabernet Franc

118,306

Italy

Citrus blossom and orchard fruit aromas lead the way. On the round, medium-bodied palate, tangy acidity supports ripe yellow apple and pear flavors. A hint of citrus zest marks the close.

89

25

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

90,717

Italy

Grilled herb, underbrush toasted hazelnut and stewed prune aromas meld together along with a floral note. The juicy, structured palate presents fleshy Morello cherry, raspberry, star anise, clove and a hint of orange zest alongside firm, polished tannins that give this a smooth mouthfeel.

92

41

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

118,111

US

Bright aromas of toast, spice and pear are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors that persist on the finish.

88

25

Washington

Chardonnay

62,706

Germany

Delicate quince and apple aromas are fringed with foresty notes of pine needles on this bright, medium-sweet Riesling. It's brisk and breezy on the palate, with sweet apple flavor struck with vivacious lemon-lime acidity.

87

13

Mosel

Riesling

82,218

Spain

Mild citrus aromas are clean and fresh. A tight, pure palate of crisp acidity is par for good Cava, while this basic brut deals a sampling of white-fruit flavors rolled into one.

87

12

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

29,547

France

With some weight, this has raspberry flavor to go with its sweetness. Berry fruits dominate in a wine that is full in the mouth.

84

16

Loire Valley

Rosé

43,437

France

Light and attractively spicy, the wine is off dry, with a touch of honey, apricots and dried fruits. The texture, soft and tangy, is peppery while the acidity is already well integrated. It's an attractive, ready to drink wine.

87

25

Alsace

Pinot Gris

81,231

US

On the sharp and lean side, showing sour red cherry candy, wintergreen and green peppercorn flavors, fattened with sweet oak. Dry and elegant, but not very rich. Drink up.

86

56

California

Pinot Noir

41,557

France

This wine is firm with powerful surface tannins. Underneath, its blackberry-like fruit is developing, bringing out spice, acidity and plenty of weight. Drink from 2020.

88

24

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

27,707

Italy

L'Erpico is a dense and meaty expression of Sangiovese from Montecucco (coastal Tuscany) that opens with ripe cherry, blackberry and meaty tones of bacon and moist earth. There's an interesting juxtaposition in the mouth of sweet versus sour fruit flavors.

88

29

Tuscany

Sangiovese

57,955

US

Black cherry fruits sink even deeper into blackberry jam on this nose, which is leveled by vanilla and black licorice. It's chunky and sticky once sipped, with blueberry juice and chocolate-chip elements that are cut with anise-like herbs. Espresso shows on the finish, which is slightly sour and bitter.

87

45

California

Merlot

47,663

Spain

Briny notes of pickled cabbage and cider seem alarming at first but prove to be misleading. This is quite elegant, lifted and clean on the palate, while mature flavors of sourdough bread, apple, pear and dry spices finish smooth and long. Drink now.

91

39

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

33,235

US

This is a richly textured but straightforward Chardonnay. It's soft on the palate with buttered toast, cream, pineapple, vanilla and lime flavors.

85

32

California

Chardonnay

80,010

US

Pretty and perfumed it exhibits dark cherry from start to finish. Spice and cola notes explode midway through, and that see-saw balance between fruit and spice persists into the finish. Round and soft, with a lean texture, it's very enjoyable.

90

36

California

Pinot Noir

60,552

Australia

Starts with scents of pear and melon, butter and spice, but takes on an ever-larger oak presence in the mouth, adding more and more wood spice and cedar. Not sure if this will ever completely integrate, so the best bet seems to be drinking earlier rather than later.

88

30

South Australia

Chardonnay

58,286

France

A blend of Grenache, Carignan and Mourvèdre, this is a driven by its bright black cherry flavors, although there are enough spicy, savory notes to add complexity. It's medium-bodied, with crisp acids and firm tannins, making it a candidate to match with rare beef or lamb.

86

19

Provence

Rhône-style Red Blend

93,246

US

This distinguished Cabernet deserves its reserve status. It shows the softness and herbal quality of Alexander Valley, along with rich tiers of red currants, cherry pie and mocha flavors. The tannic structure gives it special complexity. Now through 2012.

92

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

96,283

Australia

Despite it's considerable size, this silky wine is fresh and vibrant. Black currants and cherries lead the way, tinged with herbal notes suggestive of mint and lavender. Drink now–2020.

89

20

South Australia

Cabernet Sauvignon

12,166

US

Elegant and in balance, despite its powerful mix of ripeness and tension, this wine offers cranberry, thyme, oregano, graphite and tar. All combine for a savory succulence of intrigue and deliciousness, finishing in a length of black pepper.

91

32

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

11,879

US

Thick and lemony, this is a juicy fruit-powered style. It places its power squarely on plush fruit flavors of Meyer lemon, candied orange peel and candied pineapple. It saw no oak and needed none. Drink while it's at its freshest.

90

20

Oregon

Viognier

78,905

US

A pretty shade of pale pink, this dry and spicy rosé has a boisterous personality. Its watermelon and strawberry flavors come with a kick, showing real depth. Juicy acidity keeps it fresh and forward.

90

28

Oregon

Pinot Noir

50,390

Spain

At first this is lactic and heavy, but later it becomes charred and toasty. Its feel is full, round and fairly smooth, with baked plum, berry, vanilla and chocolate flavors. The finish is toasty and solid. Good for a 50,000-case production.

86

13

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

98,474

US

True to the winery's style, this wine pulls no punches, with aromas of black licorice, dark cherries and woodspice. It's rich and full bodied with a grainy feel.

91

28

Washington

Red Blend

3,369

US

In this inaugural release, winemaker James MacPhail travels to the far reaches of Annapolis to source grapes from the true wilderness, the site next door to Goldrock Ridge Vineyard. Made in a full-bodied style, this wine is intriguing in dried herb, black pepper and forest floor, with a healthy, lengthy seasoning of savory black tea.

92

65

California

Pinot Noir

4,862

US

Made in a thick, oaky style, this shows burned caramel, fudge and hints of dried mint and oregano on the nose. The palate is rich with blueberry and dark chocolate, wrapped in a veil of oak smoke, with chunky, chewy tannins and a purple-flower nuance.

87

35

California

Cabernet Franc

21,613

US

A lush Cabernet that feels soft and delicious right now, but has layers of complexity that make it a cellar candidate. Dry and oaky, the wine is enormously rich in blackberry, cassis, cocoa and cedar flavors, with considerable tannins. The wine is wonderfully balanced. Drink now through 2010, at least.

93

90

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

59,286

Spain

This is a modern-styled, young Priorat with driving, focused aromas of ripe cherry, plum and cassis. The palate feel is total purity and silk, while smooth flavors of black cherry, nutmeg and cocoa blend with pepper, chocolate and mineral notes on what can best be described as a delicious finish. Drink now through 2016.

94

80

Catalonia

Red Blend

30,265

US

A perfectly fine, full-bodied red wine. Dry and tannic, it has ripe cherry and some overripe raisin and prune notes, wrapped into fancy tannins. Drink now.

86

34

California

Merlot

23,772

Italy

Delicate aromas of Spanish broom and pear come with a hint of nuts on the nose. The palate offers yellow peach, green apple and a mineral note alongside vibrant acidity and small, persistent bubbles.

89

19

Veneto

Glera

55,792

US

This is a solid wine from a new appellation, offering much promise for vintages to come. Baked red cherry, smashed pomegranate, cinnamon and bay leaf play on the nose, while anise, light clove, strawberry, red plum and red apple vie for attention on the palate.

89

26

California

Pinot Noir

39,753

US

This wine is a unique blend of Syrah, Merlot, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre. It seems locked up, with aromas of pickling spices, smoke, berry and vanilla that are followed by broad blue and black-fruit flavors that provide appeal.

88

12

Washington

Red Blend

126,831

US

The Oliver red is a mix of Syrah, Petite Sirah and Grenache from the excellent Olsen and Stone Tree vineyards. At four years of age it seems to be flattening out. The blueberry and cassis fruit, along with substantial savory notes, are smooth but not quite as lively as past vintages. Drink now.

88

55

Washington

Red Blend

9,787

US

This is taut and dense, and requires time and air to untangle. Deep, dark fruits are mixed in with layers of black olive, smoke, compost, tar, moist earth and herb—a delicious mélange of flavors that promises good things to come as the wine ages. It's masterful winemaking in a package so young and wrapped up tight that it may pass you by if you don't give it a good look.

92

44

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

32,140

Italy

Heady aromas of honeysuckle, white peach and green apple carry through to the vibrant palate along with lemon zest. It boasts crisp acidity and a lively perlage that lead to a dry refreshing close.

88

15

Veneto

Glera

6,164

US

The name refers to the fact that the wine was both fermented and aged in stainless steel barrels. Made with Dijon clones from two different vineyards, it's fruit-driven, nicely flavored, offering melon, apple and white peach in equal proportion. It's a well-balanced wine, with clean, fresh flavors and just the right amount of acid to keep you reaching for the next glass.

89

18

Oregon

Chardonnay

67,456

Italy

Dark berry, pressed flower, iron, leather and spice aromas come together on this firmly structured wine. The full-bodied palate delivers juicy black cherry, eucalyptus, anise and clove alongside big, velvety tannins. A licorice note closes the lingering finish. It's already almost approachable but hold for more complexity. Drink 2018–2028.

94

85

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

28,942

US

From Old Wente clones grown on the famous vineyard, this full-bodied, textured wine shows ripe elements of golden honey, Gravenstein apple and toasted vanilla oak. Along the way, it flirts nicely with pear and marzipan, finishing in balanced minerality.

90

40

California

Chardonnay

425

US

Blossom and berry notes are accented by hints of smoked nut in this refreshingly light-bodied wine. Zesty and lithe on the palate, it's an ideal summer-to-fall apéritif or porch sipper. The moderately long finish is marked with a hint of waxy florals.

89

18

New York

Rosé

1,170

Argentina

Apricot and oak aromas make for a smoky, slightly heavy bouquet. The wine keeps that weightiness as it passes from nectarine to citrus to tropical fruits. Long on the finish, with integrity. But it's also a bit citric in the center. “Pulpy” is another descriptor.

86

17

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

61,664

US

An earthy aroma, light apricot and lemon flavors and crisp, tangy texture add up to a lean, medium-bodied and refreshing wine made from Pinot Noir grapes.

87

20

California

Rosé

63,427

US

A strongly herbal take on the grape, this clonal combo shows bay leaf, eucalyptus and tarry earth notes on the nose. The palate kicks off with a red plum tang, settling into cranberry -inflected fruit before pine needle-laced forest floor flavors emerge with herbaceous power.

90

35

California

Pinot Noir

20,803

US

Fresh apple and pear aromas are accented with notes of white flowers on this delicate Pinot Grigio. It's bristling with lemon-lime acidity, but pleasantly concentrated citrus flavors, and just a hint of reeds on the finish.

86

16

New York

Pinot Grigio

106,328

France

A mineral-driven wine, this is tangy-zesty, with a tight texture. Great fruit shines through the crispness. Balanced, ripe and with some potential, the wine will be ready from late 2018.

88

25

Burgundy

Chardonnay

125,607

US

This is a full-bodied version of the variety and yet it rides a line of soft texture and floral aromatics that ground it in nice ways. Meaty and fruity in cherry, it finishes thick and rich.

90

34

California

Grenache

128,153

US

Ripe in plum, raspberry and leather this is a full-bodied, smooth and long-lived Syrah ripe in pepper and coffee. Pair with wintertime meals that are equally rich and savory.

90

32

California

Syrah

46,931

Germany

Pristine grapefruit and lemon are cloaked in savory notes of crushed mineral, pollen and fennel in this light-bodied Riesling. Off-dry and spry in style, it's lifted by a racy crush of lemon-lime acidity on the finish.

88

12

Mosel

Riesling

40,517

US

Like Petite Sirah's rustic power? You'll love this lusty wine. It's dark, tannic and dry, with massive blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate and oak flavors that finish with hints of bacon and black pepper. Will age forever, but your window is now and through 2018.

88

24

California

Petite Sirah

91,358

Argentina

This very ripe, jammy blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah smells rich and concentrated. In the mouth, however, it's syrupy and low in acidity, while flavors of cassis and blueberry push up against candied before finishing dense and extremely ripe. Drink now through 2019.

91

45

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

105,543

US

Softened by the addition of 13% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, this wine leads with smoky oak and baked bread aromas, followed by cassis and mocha notes. Medium bodied, with a seamless texture, it adds baked cherry, cedar and tomato leaf components with measured richness.

92

58

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

124,872

US

This wine is a blend of 50% Syrah aged for 40 months in new American oak, with the other half Cabernet Sauvignon aged in new Slovakian oak. Aromas of cardamom, green pepper, cherry, vanilla and anise are followed by abundant baking-spice accents backed by tart fruit flavors. Barrel notes take over the finish.

88

38

Washington

Red Blend

84,012

US

This is full-bodied expression of the variety, big in oak and tannin presence, grippy still, with a leathery feel on the palate. Baked plum is seasoned by a hint of clove and cola, finishing expansively.

88

60

California

Pinot Noir

87,239

US

Smooth and chocolaty, this generous Cabernet brings plenty of chocolate-covered cherry flavors to the heart of the palate. Balanced and seamless, it follows the path of previous vintages. Drink it young for maximum enjoyment.

90

30

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

15,783

US

Many of Oregon's best winemakers are scrambling to acquire Shea grapes. This small-scale producer does a fine job. Its Shea designate is a captivating wine loaded with blueberry, blue plum, black raspberry and a touch of violets. One-third new French oak brings a vein of chocolate. The balance is impeccable. Drink this with enjoyment immediately, or cellar it through 2025.

94

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

41,980

France

An equal blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, this is the producer's nonvintage cuvée, soft and ripe. Balanced and crisp, it has attractive acidity under the light texture and tangy lemon-zest flavor. The bottling is ready to drink.

88

35

Champagne

Champagne Blend

81,340

US

This is an outstanding value in a Willamette Valley Pinot Noir—soft, subtle and spicy, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit. All neutral oak fermented, the mouthfeel is smooth and supple, and the flavors have a sexy, delicious quality that says “drink me now!”

91

22

Oregon

Pinot Noir

68,350

Italy

Subdued aromas suggesting forest floor, leather, stewed plum and exotic spice lead the nose. The dense concentrated palate shows black cherry extract, prune and licorice alongside compact tannins. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol.

89

90

Tuscany

Sangiovese

111,385

US

Though 100% Merlot, it seems more reminiscent of a Syrah with notes of blue fruit and ash. The flavors are light with chalky, mouthcoating tannins.

84

9

Washington

Merlot

59,563

US

This unusual Chardonnay is fermented and aged sur lie in 60 gallon stainless-steel barrels. The pleasant mix of fruit includes cucumber, melon, jicama and apple, balanced and tart. The color, already a fairly deep gold, suggests that you drink it soon.

87

20

Oregon

Chardonnay

83,165

France

A blend of Syrah and Grenache from organic vineyards gives a herbal, very southern taste to this ripe wine. It is still young and showing both acidity and a firm structure. As it develops further, it will get a rich, full and plummy character. Drink from 2017.

89

20

Provence

Red Blend

89,151

US

This blend of Syrah and Petite Sirah is made in a drink-me-now style that emphasizes sheer deliciousness. Soft and almost sweet, it dazzles with pastry-filling cherries and raspberries, with exotic touches of cocoa, anise and cinnamon. Tannins provide a sturdy architecture, but they're ripe and accessible.

89

70

California

Red Blend

82,036

US

Rick Longoria chooses a new artist every two years to illustrate this label. This vintage features 40% Cabernet Franc, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Syrah and 18% Merlot, resulting in cranberry, red cherry and dried herbs notes, with a touch of eucalyptus and pine sap. The palate offers woody cedar and juniper flavors along with tart cherry fruit.

88

30

California

Red Blend

26,373

US

One of the best Californian Pinot Gris currently available, this is rich, creamy and complex, and it would make for a great alternative to Chardonnay. This wine traditionally ages in used oak, which imparts just a hint of wood-driven sweetness to the pear, peach, mango and lime flavors.

90

22

California

Pinot Gris

101,988

Argentina

Opens with fairly deep blackberry aromas, but there's also a stemmy edge to the bouquet. Generic flavors of baked plum and berry are lifted by slicing acids, while the finish bounces along before ending with some straightforward chocolate and berry notes.

85

14

Mendoza Province

Malbec

99,307

US

Tough in tannins, with an astringent, lockdown quality. That's the iron fist of this wine. The velvet glove is the rich, flamboyant core of blackberries and cassis. Give this young wine at least six years to come around.

92

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon