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
38,969	Spain	Strained aromas are followed by an astringent palate that's dried-out and tart, with an herbal, semisour finish.	81	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
98,809	US	White blossoms and peaches perfume this unusually zesty Viognier. Dry and delicately framed, it's balances crisp, cutting acidity against sunny citrus flavors. It's an easy, refreshing wine with a moderately long finish.	87	40	New York	Viognier
103,860	US	Textural and beautifully detailed, this offers front-loaded flavors of cola, cocoa, graphite and tobacco, wrapped around blackberry and black-cherry fruits. Despite the relatively steep alcohol, this drinks in a lighter, more elegant, yet quite showy style.	93	60	Oregon	Pinot Noir
92,729	US	The label says Napa Valley but the grapes come from Carneros, and you can taste the cool fog in the crisp acidity that frames long hangtime flavors of ripe pineapple, guava, nectarine, roasted peach and lime custard. This is a pretty Chard, balanced and dry, and it impresses for its volume and length.	91	36	California	Chardonnay
46,894	US	This is a spicy, fully plush and complete wine, integrated in oak and tannin with a strength of black-cherry compote that gives an extra edge. The length and texture are impressive, showcasing the power of the vineyard in a ripe, even vintage, and some deft winemaking as well.	94	62	California	Pinot Noir
113,550	US	Though reserved in the nose, this wine from a vineyard to the west of the Sta. Rita Hills already presents a bit of aromatic age, with honey, almond and dried apricot. It's lean, bright and flinty once sipped, with gravel, tangerine pith and chamomile, proving to be a refreshing sipper that never tires. Drink now.	90	39	California	Chardonnay
48,026	France	This wine has structure and strong old-wood flavors. It comes from the most southerly Premier Cru in the Côte de Beaune, close to the Chalonnaise vineyards. The fruit is still working its way through the tannins of this firm wine. It will have a juicy red-berry character as it develops, giving the potential for aging. Drink from 2018.	87	35	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
25,071	France	The spicy wood aroma that shows strongly on the nose of this wine is confirmed on the palate, as it seems to have spent too much time in barrels. The fruit has been neglected and is dry. It will open up with time, although the dryness will probably remain.	85	28	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
102,438	Italy	From one of the hottest vintages in recent years, this wine delivers layers of succulent wild cherry, crushed raspberry and cinnamon. It's balanced with firm but refined tannins and surprising freshness for the vintage. Drink through 2022.	92	45	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
73,041	US	Full, complex bouquet of dark berries, tobacco and smoke, with a cool pine note adding interest. Similar flavors follow on the palate, and the texture is lean and refined, with very good fruit-to-acid balance. The long, supple finish offers sweet black fruit buttressed by toasty oak and supported by brisk tannins. Oaky, in a Bordeaux manner, and very elegant.	91	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
82,222	Spain	Clean white-fruit aromas are fresh and dry. This brut Cava puts out citric notes on a palate with bright malic acidity. Lime and green-apple flavors finish fresh but without any shift towards complexity.	87	16	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
103,736	US	Soft and supple yet powerful on the palate, this is generously seasoned with smoky oak and meat aromas. Tobacco and clove flavors keep it savory and are complemented by black currant fruit.	90	150	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
46,392	France	A soft, lightly herbaceous style, with good green apple and white currant flavors. Crisp, light, refreshing, drink this year.	85	11	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
97,516	US	Feels muscular and dry in the mouth, with powerful black cherry, currant, bacon, black pepper and sandalwood flavors. The tannins are potent, but negotiable, although you should give this Syrah a decant of several hours to let it breathe.	88	20	California	Syrah
123,414	US	The mini-trend to making white Pinot Noir is taking off in Oregon, and the wines get better with each new vintage. There's not a trace of color here, but plenty of flavor, headed with chunky apple and white peach fruit. Overall fruit-forward describes this best, with some of the flesh of a good stainless Chardonnay.	88	24	Oregon	Pinot Noir
81,051	Spain	In good vintages like 2004, Deyo can be one of Spain's best Merlots. The fact that it is one of Spain's only Merlots is moot when you taste Deyo's warm and spicy black fruit, its fine-grained oak, and then all the coffee, butter and pepper that work the finish. A little tannic and grabby, but food will offset that.	89	18	Northern Spain	Merlot
65,663	US	This is a gutsy wine, with firm tannins, making the texture slightly astringent while tightly holding in the fruit and oak flavors. It needs rich food alongside, or hold it until 2017 to mellow.	87	12	California	Petite Sirah
79,498	Portugal	The Reserva version of Mural makes a powerful statement. Dark in color and packed with concentrated fruit, it is full of tannins as well as brooding black-plum flavors. Spice and juicy acidity complete the ensemble. It's a solid wine that needs to age to soften the tannic structure. Drink from 2017.	91	12	Douro	Portuguese Red
107,259	US	Earthy, savory, seaside flavors dominate the mild fruit component of this rich-feeling but light-tasting wine.	85	24	California	Viognier
127,049	Argentina	Medicinal cherry and plum aromas set up a palate with clipped, hard tannins. Forced flavors of oak and carob are more obvious than the wine's plum and cassis notes. Oak dominates the creamy, charred finish.	85	10	Mendoza Province	Malbec
103,191	US	Aromas of sage, espresso and green, savory herbs are at the fore on this lightly colored blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with the fruit notes in the background. The coffee and cherry flavors are elegant yet rich, with an outrageously long, expressive finish. It's all about subtlety, refinement and detail with plenty of each but needing some time for them all to meld together.	93	95	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
21,233	US	A tremendous wine. Made from 100% Cabernet and raised for nearly two years in 40% new French oak, it defines the ripe, hedonistic Napa style. Yet it's no mere fruit bomb, offering a tobaccoey earthiness to the berries. A touch of raisins and heat in the finish seems to limit ageability, though, so drink up.	89	48	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
109,048	France	From this rich vintage comes this delicious, open wine. Flavors of tropical fruit and peach create an opulent and generous feel, with notes from having aged in wood offering complexity. It's concentrated and ageworthy, worth keeping for 4–5 years and more.	93	70	Burgundy	Chardonnay
123,108	Portugal	This wine is rich, full of fruit and with a medium-term potential. Attractive berry flavors are ripe and full of juicy acidity. Drink this lively, fruity wine from 2018.	88	10	Douro	Portuguese Red
5,825	France	This light-colored, soft and supple wine has a palate filled with red fruits. It's immediately drinkable, already showing signs of maturity.	84	24	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
30,959	Italy	Here's a cheerful and bright Prosecco that delivers enticing aromas of dried hay, field flower, peach and light lemon zest. Tonic, lively bubbling would match fried finger foods.	87	23	Veneto	Glera
51,521	Spain	This smells a bit like asphalt and peanuts. It feels angular, with plum, berry and pepper flavors. The finish is spicy, with drying tannins and a lasting leafy flavor.	84	15	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
23,272	Italy	With a bright red Vespa on its label, Rapido Red is a racy little wine (with a screwcap) that delivers tight, compact aromas of wild berry, currants and red licorice. The wine is clean and easy in the mouth and is absolutely perfect for pizza night.	85	12	Piedmont	Barbera
32,121	France	Bottles of this brand bear the double-headed eagle of Russia, a reminder it is named after the wife of the Russian imperial monarch. This nonvintage cuvée is in the house style, crisp, tangy and with a fine combination of citrus and green-plum freshness. Drink now.	88	45	Champagne	Champagne Blend
30,707	France	Retaining a good sense of structure, this is also a relatively light and fresh Gevrey-Chambertin. It has plenty of raspberry and red plum flavors and lively acidity at the end. Drink from 2015.	88	70	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
96,058	US	Fresh and citrus-driven on the nose, this bottling—comprised of 88% Los Alamos estate fruit and 12% from Goodchild in the Santa Maria Valley—offers grapefruit, lemongrass, and key lime on the nose. On the palate, it's sour at first with pink grapefruit tones, opening up into riper orange and tangerine flavors.	87	17	California	Chardonnay
112,531	France	Produced in western Touraine, close to Chinon and its red wines, this soft wine is ready to drink. With its smoky character and jammy fruit flavors, it is very much a light, perfumed Cabernet Franc. The aftertaste is dry, although the fruit is always there.	88	19	Loire Valley	Cabernet Franc
3,876	US	A nice, everyday Pinot, with a properly silky texture. The cherry, cola, red licorice and bacon flavors are satisfyingly rich, with elaborate oak overtones. It's a pretty good value in an under-$20 Pinot Noir.	86	18	California	Pinot Noir
56,117	Spain	Floral lime aromas are fresh, while this wine feels tight, and light. Bright citrus and tropical-fruit flavors are winners, and this is steady and fresh on a tasty finish.	89	22	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
87,177	US	Very smooth and flavorful, this full-bodied wine pairs excellent concentration of dark-fruit flavors with subtle accents of both dark and milk chocolate. Classic varietal cues of black olive, black cherry and a faint hint of rosemary make it complex and interesting to taste. The mouthfeel strikes a good balance between firm, fine-grained tannins and a posh richness that helps the finish linger. Best after 2024.	92	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
56,280	Germany	Initial aromas of smoke and earth dissipate to reveal scents of rich, honeyed peaches and spice. The palate is bright and sweet with ripe, juicy stonefruit and preserved quince, accented by hints of fresh herbs and ramps. An unusual harmony of sweet and savory, it finishes long and complex.	89	40	Mosel	Riesling
37,988	Italy	Scents of fragrant field flowers and white orchard fruit emerge on this refreshing sparkling wine. The vibrant, silky palate delivers crisp green apple, juicy pear and lime alongside tangy acidity and a refined, persistent bead. The finish is dry and clean.	92	25	Veneto	Sparkling Blend
102,976	Italy	Mature dark-skinned berry, forest floor, spice rack, chopped mint, eucalyptus and graphite are some of the aromas you'll find on this structured red. The chewy, full-bodied palate doles out black raspberry, juicy wild cherry, licorice and dried herb alongside tightly packed but ripe tannins. Best 2019–2026.	93	90	Tuscany	Sangiovese
71,801	US	This is a pristinely fruity yet vivacious sparkling rosé. It's deft in body and scintillatingly crisp, offering layers of tart red-apple and raspberry flavors. Fine delicate froth and persistent bubbles set it apart, as does its long sugar-cookie finish.	90	45	New York	Sparkling Blend
10,221	France	There’s a distinct and unmistakable scent of rotten eggs in this wine, which usually indicates excessive amounts of sulfur were used during bottling. Apart from that we have a rough and tumble, rustic style with big fruit and a yeasty, chewy finish.	85	39	Champagne	Champagne Blend
11,567	US	Classic Petite Sirah aromas leap off the nose of this bottling, including dense black rocks, crushed gravel and lava rocks, a touch of espresso bean and a light brush of purple flowers. The palate starts juicy with ripe blueberry then grows complex through charred meat, tar and coffee. The tannins are still stiff but will mellow slowly.	91	38	California	Petite Sirah
63,211	US	This late-released bottling is incredibly interesting. Connoisseurs will appreciate the bone-dry minerality and acidity, the subtle creaminess from lees aging and the citrusy flavors that just begin to suggest tropical fruit. It should continue to develop in the bottle for a few more years.	93	45	California	Chardonnay
55,492	Italy	Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese and Syrah produce a sophisticated and refined blend that boasts fantastic power and intensity. The wine is dark, chewy, rich and bursting with flavors of mature berry, spice, cola, leather and tobacco.	92	35	Tuscany	Red Blend
68,421	US	This soft and approachable Merlot brims in smoke and oak, with subtle plum fruit. A slight layering of spice on the back of the palate is pleasing.	86	58	California	Merlot
78,863	US	Tough in tannins and soft in acids, this Malbec has a syrupy texture. The flavors of blackberries and currants have a raisiny, Porty edge.	82	24	California	Malbec
14,483	France	Still dominated by wood and toast aromas, this wine is certainly too young to drink. The wood needs to smooth out and allow room for the fruit. It will age, with its fresh fruits and acidity, so drink from 2017.	84	9	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
15,923	US	This cool vintage helps keep the alcohol down, but the seductive aromatics more than compensate. Varietal nuances of rosewater and other floral overtones enhance a rather delicate, elegant reserve. Raspberry fruit and highlights of baking spices continue through a persistent finish.	91	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
36,626	Italy	Truffle, ripe berry, plum, oak-driven spice, espresso and leather aromas lead the nose. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, raisin, licorice and tobacco alongside tightly knit tannins. It closes on a note of grilled herb. Drink 2016–2021.	91	40	Tuscany	Sangiovese
51,501	US	New oak stands out in this slightly sweet Chardonnay, giving a butterscotch taste to the pineapple and fig fruit. It has pleasant acidity.	85	28	California	Chardonnay
12,363	US	Flavors are restrained in this medium-bodied wine, so there are not a lot of fruits or herbs to shout out. However, it has a straightforward appeal and will make an unobtrusive pairing with many foods because it has a good, crisp mouth feel.	85	24	California	Chardonnay
123,641	US	A gentle, easy to drink Pinot, with pleasantly complex flavors of raspberry and cherry pie filling and new oak. The alcohol is high, making for a burn that might offend Pinot purists. But most fans will appreciate its sheer deliciousness. Drink now.	87	50	California	Pinot Noir
9,840	US	While a bit lean in concentration, yellow apple, pear and lemon are pristine and ripe on the nose and palate. The mouthfeel is a bit broad and flat but finishes briskly. Drink now.	86	18	New York	Chardonnay
127,194	Italy	A hint of initial sulfur blows off almost completely to leave fresh aromas of stone fruit, melon and honey. This Chardonnay has good natural structure and offers fruit flavors.	83	12	Northeastern Italy	Chardonnay
6,890	US	Thick and tannic, this wine, among all the single-varietal offerings from Griffin Creek, shows a bit more ripeness to the black, muscular fruits. It's dense in the mouth, with cassis, cocoa and coffee, bolstered with sharp, piercing acidity.	87	40	Oregon	Cabernet Franc
128,507	Italy	Truffle, underbrush, mature plum, saddle leather and a balsamic note emerge on this robust red. The hearty, one-dimensional palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice and grilled herb alongside solid if not very persistent tannins. You'll also notice the heat of alcohol on the rather quick, drying finish.	89	80	Tuscany	Sangiovese
27,390	US	Lean and tough, but not without a certain charm, this Cab's blackberry and currant flavors are wrapped in hard, edgy tannins. The sweet core of fruit will wake up when paired with rich beef dishes.	86	28	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
33,688	US	This cuvée gets some extra time in 40% new wood, and is bottled unfiltered. Plush blackberry and black cherry fruit flavors, accented with streaks of cola and chocolate, capture your attention. It's a rich tasty forward immediately enjoyable bottle, so go for it now through 2020.	90	35	Oregon	Pinot Noir
42,686	US	An opening act of spices, nutmeg and musk promises much. While offering up some appealing pear and apricot notes the palate doesn't quite deliver as both concentration and persistence are lacking.	84	19	New York	Riesling
45,079	US	The vineyard sits at nearly a half-mile in elevation, and you'll find true mountain concentration to the blackberry jam, black cherry, raspberry, licorice, pepper and molasses flavors. The alcohol is quite high, but the wine feels rich and balanced.	87	40	California	Zinfandel
73,021	Germany	Earthen notes of clay and pollen mingle with flavors of fresh grapefruit, lemon and lime in this sweet and savory spätlese. Its invigorating acidity and filigreed texture are classically Mosel. The finish lingers on a lacy tangerine sweetness.	90	30	Mosel	Riesling
83,029	US	Finding a good Anderson Valley Pinot Noir for under $25 is no easy feat and so this Husch bottling is impressive in delivering a fairly good experience for the price. A tad chewy still, with an oaky presence, it shows dark, ripe strawberry and mushroom-y flavors and finishes with some spice.	87	23	California	Pinot Noir
121,204	Italy	Aromas of red berry, blue flower and tilled soil lead the way on this young elegant wine. The fresh tightly wound palate shows cherry, licorice, sage and an iron note set against close-knit tannins. It's still youthfully austere so give it time to come around. Drink 2020–2031.	90	75	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
119,800	Argentina	Earthy blackberry aromas are spicy and moderately complex. Structured and sound on the palate, with a strong tannic framework, this tastes of well-defined cherry and cassis. Spice and chocolaty notes on the finish are barrel driven.	90	25	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
3,528	US	A good sense of concentration and depth make this medium-bodied wine taste big and satisfying without overdoing it. It has a very dark color, fruity and lightly spicy aromas, rich plum and black cherry flavors and rather mild tannins.	88	10	California	Red Blend
61,486	Italy	Tommasi's easy-going Romeo is a well-priced Italian red with fresh aromas of wild berries, blue flowers and slight shadings of sweet spice. Complete with a screw-cap closure, the wine would work well at picnics and informal lunches.	85	10	Northeastern Italy	Red Blend
123,172	Italy	This bright and fruit-forward Nebbiolo d'Alba offers clean notes of white cherry, raspberry and cassis. There's a subtle layer of tar, spice and licorice and the wine is fresh and well structured overall.	87	16	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
7,053	Argentina	Grassy, herbal aromas rest on top of basic red-fruit notes. This feels choppy and hollow, with flavors of buttery oak, chemical and red currant. The raw hot finish doesn't have a lot of body or padding.	84	13	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
63,365	Argentina	Raisiny black-fruit aromas are jammy and a clarion indicator of what's to come. In the mouth, this Malbec is saturated and chunky, with extreme ripeness. Flavors of raisin, prune and baked berry fruits come with secondary spice and pepper notes. The finish is earthy, heavy and rich but short on vibrancy.	88	19	Mendoza Province	Malbec
36,300	Italy	Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019.	90	57	Tuscany	Sangiovese
13,355	US	Keefer has not been Loring's most successful bottling. The '06 is pleasant, and in its own way delicious, with upfront raspberry, cherry, cola and smoky vanilla flavors balanced with crisp acidity. But it has a candied one-dimensionality, and doesn't seem likely to age.	85	50	California	Pinot Noir
29,073	Spain	Reddish in color and big on the bouquet, with sweet berry and cherry aromas. The palate is full and fun, with acidity and heavier, sweeter flavors of strawberry, raspberry and sweet plum. Handles its size well. Made from 80% Garnacha and 20% Graciano (for acidity).	86	10	Northern Spain	Rosé
70,097	US	Here the fruit seems to stay in the watermelon/strawberry range, not under-ripe, but more in a high-acid, Euro style. The oak aging (18 months) cloaks it in a lush coat of milk chocolate.	89	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
117,007	US	A simple, thin wine, with vegetable aromas and flavors that warm up a little in the glass to turn into sweet cherries.	82	42	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
122,207	US	This is the winery's sweet sparkling wine. It has the elegant structure, fine acidity and forward raspberry, strawberry, lime, vanilla and smoke flavors of the dry bruts, with a sugary finish, for those who like their bubblies on the sweet side.	86	15	California	Sparkling Blend
933	France	While the wine is firm and tannic at this early stage, it does have the potential to bring out a more fruity character. The red-berry fruits and acidity are there, promising a fresh wine from 2018.	87	16	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
101,321	US	A clean, bone-dry Sauvignon Blanc with plenty of mouthwatering acidity to get those tastebuds whistling. It has polished flavors of lemons, limes, grapefruits, vanilla and white pepper. Good value.	89	16	California	Sauvignon Blanc
77,568	US	Lush, full, forward, ripe and round fruit flavors of spiced plum and cherry pour from the glass. Rich, smooth and mouth coating, this instantly-accessible young Pinot finishes with pretty milk chocolate and light toast, a balanced and satisfying effort.	91	37	Oregon	Pinot Noir
83,460	US	Long hangtime fruit is the star of this Pinot, which is pretty much as good as the winery's more expensive bottlings, making it a comparative value. The raspberry, cherry, tea, cola and Indian spice flavors developed perfectly in this perfect vintage, giving the wine an elaborate richness, while crisp coastal acidity provides balancing tartness. It wants some time in the cellar. Give it until 2012 to begin to develop bottle complexity.	91	55	California	Pinot Noir
22,574	US	Hints of bergamot add a musky elegance to tropical notes of sweet melon and tangerine in this beautifully perfumed Riesling. There's a sugariness on the midpalate, but the finish is clean and brisk, with a shower of pink grapefruit acidity.	86	15	New York	Riesling
66,445	Italy	This is initially very closed and a little funky, but it soon opens up in the glass to reveal ripe black-skinned fruit, raisin and a whiff of kitchen spice. On the solid, no-frills palate, notes of fig and grilled sage back up a core of dried black cherry while close-grained grip the finish.	88	60	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
38,076	US	This might be one of Oregon's best Cabernet efforts to date. Yes, it's firm, with hard tannins, but time should allow that to settle down. In the meantime, there's char, road tar and caramel on the nose, while plum, cassis and chocolate dominate the rich, extracted palate. Toward the end it's the tannic structure that makes itself most felt. But again, some time in the cellar is probably all it requires.	89	28	Oregon	Cabernet Sauvignon
117,456	US	This wine's plum, vanilla, milk chocolate and blue fruit aromas are followed by a palate saturated with supersmooth fruit and barrel flavors. The variety isn't immediately apparent, but it's delicious all the same.	91	25	Washington	Merlot
96,646	US	One of Adam Lee's more affordable appellation blends, this delivers a lot of bang for the buck, with aromas of extracted strawberry, rich plum, sandalwood and a slate backbone. Soft red fruit starts the palate, then sharpens into cranberry, with lots of herbal spice and acidic sizzle throughout.	90	34	California	Pinot Noir
49,132	US	The second in Three Brothers' series of four Rieslings, this wine would be more accurately described as semisweet. There's a familiar hint of fennel and petroleum on the nose here, contrasted by a bright lemon-honey sweetness and hints of grapefruit.	84	13	New York	Riesling
27,521	Spain	Classic old-school Gran Reserva. The nose is full of barbecue, molasses and dried plum, while the palate has complexities in the form of tobacco, tire rubber and earth. It goes somewhat citrusy and quick on the finish, ending in a wash of orange-infused leather and chocolate. Drink now or hold for another 5 years.	88	25	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
20,263	US	At first high-toned, this opens nicely with crisp green apple fruit flavors. It's balanced and clear. Don't look for big, blowsy tropical flavors or buttery oak, though the barrel fermentation provides some texture to the finish. A great food wine.	87	18	Washington	Chardonnay
95,613	US	This wine is a blend of Sangiovese (52%), Cabernet Sauvignon (32%) and Syrah. Aromas of bittersweet chocolate, herb, pencil lead, smoke, cranberry and dark fruit lead to palate-coating black-fruit flavors that display depth and density. It shows a lovely sense of balance and detail.	91	50	Washington	Red Blend
97,149	France	Based in Bué, one of the top villages of Sancerre, this producer has made a ripe, crisp and nervy wine that comes from chalk soil. Tangy with a mineral texture, it offers rich currant and lime flavors and full-throated final acidity. Drink now.	87	25	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
36,367	Italy	Pretty aromas of stone fruit and yellow flower come together in the glass. The vertical palate delivers dried peach, yellow apple, nectarine zest and a flinty note balanced by bright acidity.	88	15	Veneto	White Blend
88,061	US	A bit less intense aromatically than other Adam Lee bottlings, this shows sour plum, smoked meat and a touch of garden herbs on the nose. Those elements come alive on the palate, where peppercorns, oregano, thyme and pencil lead decorate dark cranberry fruits.	90	49	California	Pinot Noir
46,200	US	The nose on this wine from the longtime Santa Ynez Valley producer is a bit faint, with wet lawn and lemon most apparent. The palate is more sensation-based than flavor-driven, all about light texture and simmering acidity, with green apple and lime skin elements.	89	15	California	Sauvignon Blanc
84,312	Italy	Red currant, blackberry, espresso, wood shavings and cedar aromas unfold in the glass. The palate offers dried black cherry, anise, coffee, coconut and oak alongside alongside drying tannins that leave an astringent finish. The fruit is starting to dry up so drink sooner rather than later.	88	65	Tuscany	Merlot
74,631	US	Aromas of black currant, dark chocolate and herb are followed by lightly concentrated dark-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a sense of astringency.	84	8	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
100,220	US	This bottling smells much like a bundle of freshly cleared sagebrush, with hints of fennel, charred tomato, wood, cola and wild black cherry. Its extremely soft mouthfeel massages the tongue with lush tannins, and its black cherry richness is cut by tart pomegranate-like acidity and lifted by cocoa, coffee and ginger spice notes.	92	56	California	Pinot Noir
46,435	US	This wine is a joy to drink with its aromas and flavors of coffee, dark chocolate, herbs and cherry. The opulently styled flavors are rich but well balanced, with chewy tannins backing it all up. It's irresistible.	92	34	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
82,749	Spain	Way too charred and roasted. The mouthfeel is acceptable and ranks as the best part of the wine. The rest is just a burnt, charred, overoaked mess with flavors of earthy berry, leather, peanut and resin. A poor effort that makes you wonder what the winery was thinking.	80	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
39,182	France	A spicy, wood-aged wine with a fine combination of pineapple and citrus fruit. With the spice from the wood, the wine is rich while keeping a line of pure bright acidity. Drink the wine from late 2017.	88	65	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
124,003	US	Quite grassy in aromas for a Chardonnay, this wine shows lemongrass, fennel, Gala apple and light honeydew melon on the nose. The palate is light and tight, with flavors of grapefruit and apples.	87	16	California	Chardonnay
31,703	US	Lusty and strong, this is Lodi Zinfandel at its most classic. It's a big, thick, softly ripe wine that floods the mouth with exuberant flavors of blackberry jam, chocolate, red and black currants and peppery spices. Easy to like. Drink now.	88	25	California	Zinfandel
101,783	US	This blend of 39% Mourvèdre, 31% Grenache, 21% Syrah and 9% Durif shows black-plum pastry notes on the nose as well as crushed asphalt, dried rose petals and smoked pork. A line of graphite minerality grabs the palate first, then comes dark red and olallieberry fruit that are lifted by notes of lilac, lavender and potpourri, followed by grippy tannins that entertain the mouth for awhile.	91	28	California	Red Blend

38,969

Spain

Strained aromas are followed by an astringent palate that's dried-out and tart, with an herbal, semisour finish.

81

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

98,809

US

White blossoms and peaches perfume this unusually zesty Viognier. Dry and delicately framed, it's balances crisp, cutting acidity against sunny citrus flavors. It's an easy, refreshing wine with a moderately long finish.

87

40

New York

Viognier

103,860

US

Textural and beautifully detailed, this offers front-loaded flavors of cola, cocoa, graphite and tobacco, wrapped around blackberry and black-cherry fruits. Despite the relatively steep alcohol, this drinks in a lighter, more elegant, yet quite showy style.

93

60

Oregon

Pinot Noir

92,729

US

The label says Napa Valley but the grapes come from Carneros, and you can taste the cool fog in the crisp acidity that frames long hangtime flavors of ripe pineapple, guava, nectarine, roasted peach and lime custard. This is a pretty Chard, balanced and dry, and it impresses for its volume and length.

91

36

California

Chardonnay

46,894

US

This is a spicy, fully plush and complete wine, integrated in oak and tannin with a strength of black-cherry compote that gives an extra edge. The length and texture are impressive, showcasing the power of the vineyard in a ripe, even vintage, and some deft winemaking as well.

94

62

California

Pinot Noir

113,550

US

Though reserved in the nose, this wine from a vineyard to the west of the Sta. Rita Hills already presents a bit of aromatic age, with honey, almond and dried apricot. It's lean, bright and flinty once sipped, with gravel, tangerine pith and chamomile, proving to be a refreshing sipper that never tires. Drink now.

90

39

California

Chardonnay

48,026

France

This wine has structure and strong old-wood flavors. It comes from the most southerly Premier Cru in the Côte de Beaune, close to the Chalonnaise vineyards. The fruit is still working its way through the tannins of this firm wine. It will have a juicy red-berry character as it develops, giving the potential for aging. Drink from 2018.

87

35

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

25,071

France

The spicy wood aroma that shows strongly on the nose of this wine is confirmed on the palate, as it seems to have spent too much time in barrels. The fruit has been neglected and is dry. It will open up with time, although the dryness will probably remain.

85

28

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

102,438

Italy

From one of the hottest vintages in recent years, this wine delivers layers of succulent wild cherry, crushed raspberry and cinnamon. It's balanced with firm but refined tannins and surprising freshness for the vintage. Drink through 2022.

92

45

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

73,041

US

Full, complex bouquet of dark berries, tobacco and smoke, with a cool pine note adding interest. Similar flavors follow on the palate, and the texture is lean and refined, with very good fruit-to-acid balance. The long, supple finish offers sweet black fruit buttressed by toasty oak and supported by brisk tannins. Oaky, in a Bordeaux manner, and very elegant.

91

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

82,222

Spain

Clean white-fruit aromas are fresh and dry. This brut Cava puts out citric notes on a palate with bright malic acidity. Lime and green-apple flavors finish fresh but without any shift towards complexity.

87

16

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

103,736

US

Soft and supple yet powerful on the palate, this is generously seasoned with smoky oak and meat aromas. Tobacco and clove flavors keep it savory and are complemented by black currant fruit.

90

150

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

46,392

France

A soft, lightly herbaceous style, with good green apple and white currant flavors. Crisp, light, refreshing, drink this year.

85

11

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

97,516

US

Feels muscular and dry in the mouth, with powerful black cherry, currant, bacon, black pepper and sandalwood flavors. The tannins are potent, but negotiable, although you should give this Syrah a decant of several hours to let it breathe.

88

20

California

Syrah

123,414

US

The mini-trend to making white Pinot Noir is taking off in Oregon, and the wines get better with each new vintage. There's not a trace of color here, but plenty of flavor, headed with chunky apple and white peach fruit. Overall fruit-forward describes this best, with some of the flesh of a good stainless Chardonnay.

88

24

Oregon

Pinot Noir

81,051

Spain

In good vintages like 2004, Deyo can be one of Spain's best Merlots. The fact that it is one of Spain's only Merlots is moot when you taste Deyo's warm and spicy black fruit, its fine-grained oak, and then all the coffee, butter and pepper that work the finish. A little tannic and grabby, but food will offset that.

89

18

Northern Spain

Merlot

65,663

US

This is a gutsy wine, with firm tannins, making the texture slightly astringent while tightly holding in the fruit and oak flavors. It needs rich food alongside, or hold it until 2017 to mellow.

87

12

California

Petite Sirah

79,498

Portugal

The Reserva version of Mural makes a powerful statement. Dark in color and packed with concentrated fruit, it is full of tannins as well as brooding black-plum flavors. Spice and juicy acidity complete the ensemble. It's a solid wine that needs to age to soften the tannic structure. Drink from 2017.

91

12

Douro

Portuguese Red

107,259

US

Earthy, savory, seaside flavors dominate the mild fruit component of this rich-feeling but light-tasting wine.

85

24

California

Viognier

127,049

Argentina

Medicinal cherry and plum aromas set up a palate with clipped, hard tannins. Forced flavors of oak and carob are more obvious than the wine's plum and cassis notes. Oak dominates the creamy, charred finish.

85

10

Mendoza Province

Malbec

103,191

US

Aromas of sage, espresso and green, savory herbs are at the fore on this lightly colored blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with the fruit notes in the background. The coffee and cherry flavors are elegant yet rich, with an outrageously long, expressive finish. It's all about subtlety, refinement and detail with plenty of each but needing some time for them all to meld together.

93

95

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

21,233

US

A tremendous wine. Made from 100% Cabernet and raised for nearly two years in 40% new French oak, it defines the ripe, hedonistic Napa style. Yet it's no mere fruit bomb, offering a tobaccoey earthiness to the berries. A touch of raisins and heat in the finish seems to limit ageability, though, so drink up.

89

48

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

109,048

France

From this rich vintage comes this delicious, open wine. Flavors of tropical fruit and peach create an opulent and generous feel, with notes from having aged in wood offering complexity. It's concentrated and ageworthy, worth keeping for 4–5 years and more.

93

70

Burgundy

Chardonnay

123,108

Portugal

This wine is rich, full of fruit and with a medium-term potential. Attractive berry flavors are ripe and full of juicy acidity. Drink this lively, fruity wine from 2018.

88

10

Douro

Portuguese Red

5,825

France

This light-colored, soft and supple wine has a palate filled with red fruits. It's immediately drinkable, already showing signs of maturity.

84

24

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

30,959

Italy

Here's a cheerful and bright Prosecco that delivers enticing aromas of dried hay, field flower, peach and light lemon zest. Tonic, lively bubbling would match fried finger foods.

87

23

Veneto

Glera

51,521

Spain

This smells a bit like asphalt and peanuts. It feels angular, with plum, berry and pepper flavors. The finish is spicy, with drying tannins and a lasting leafy flavor.

84

15

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

23,272

Italy

With a bright red Vespa on its label, Rapido Red is a racy little wine (with a screwcap) that delivers tight, compact aromas of wild berry, currants and red licorice. The wine is clean and easy in the mouth and is absolutely perfect for pizza night.

85

12

Piedmont

Barbera

32,121

France

Bottles of this brand bear the double-headed eagle of Russia, a reminder it is named after the wife of the Russian imperial monarch. This nonvintage cuvée is in the house style, crisp, tangy and with a fine combination of citrus and green-plum freshness. Drink now.

88

45

Champagne

Champagne Blend

30,707

France

Retaining a good sense of structure, this is also a relatively light and fresh Gevrey-Chambertin. It has plenty of raspberry and red plum flavors and lively acidity at the end. Drink from 2015.

88

70

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

96,058

US

Fresh and citrus-driven on the nose, this bottling—comprised of 88% Los Alamos estate fruit and 12% from Goodchild in the Santa Maria Valley—offers grapefruit, lemongrass, and key lime on the nose. On the palate, it's sour at first with pink grapefruit tones, opening up into riper orange and tangerine flavors.

87

17

California

Chardonnay

112,531

France

Produced in western Touraine, close to Chinon and its red wines, this soft wine is ready to drink. With its smoky character and jammy fruit flavors, it is very much a light, perfumed Cabernet Franc. The aftertaste is dry, although the fruit is always there.

88

19

Loire Valley

Cabernet Franc

3,876

US

A nice, everyday Pinot, with a properly silky texture. The cherry, cola, red licorice and bacon flavors are satisfyingly rich, with elaborate oak overtones. It's a pretty good value in an under-$20 Pinot Noir.

86

18

California

Pinot Noir

56,117

Spain

Floral lime aromas are fresh, while this wine feels tight, and light. Bright citrus and tropical-fruit flavors are winners, and this is steady and fresh on a tasty finish.

89

22

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

87,177

US

Very smooth and flavorful, this full-bodied wine pairs excellent concentration of dark-fruit flavors with subtle accents of both dark and milk chocolate. Classic varietal cues of black olive, black cherry and a faint hint of rosemary make it complex and interesting to taste. The mouthfeel strikes a good balance between firm, fine-grained tannins and a posh richness that helps the finish linger. Best after 2024.

92

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

56,280

Germany

Initial aromas of smoke and earth dissipate to reveal scents of rich, honeyed peaches and spice. The palate is bright and sweet with ripe, juicy stonefruit and preserved quince, accented by hints of fresh herbs and ramps. An unusual harmony of sweet and savory, it finishes long and complex.

89

40

Mosel

Riesling

37,988

Italy

Scents of fragrant field flowers and white orchard fruit emerge on this refreshing sparkling wine. The vibrant, silky palate delivers crisp green apple, juicy pear and lime alongside tangy acidity and a refined, persistent bead. The finish is dry and clean.

92

25

Veneto

Sparkling Blend

102,976

Italy

Mature dark-skinned berry, forest floor, spice rack, chopped mint, eucalyptus and graphite are some of the aromas you'll find on this structured red. The chewy, full-bodied palate doles out black raspberry, juicy wild cherry, licorice and dried herb alongside tightly packed but ripe tannins. Best 2019–2026.

93

90

Tuscany

Sangiovese

71,801

US

This is a pristinely fruity yet vivacious sparkling rosé. It's deft in body and scintillatingly crisp, offering layers of tart red-apple and raspberry flavors. Fine delicate froth and persistent bubbles set it apart, as does its long sugar-cookie finish.

90

45

New York

Sparkling Blend

10,221

France

There’s a distinct and unmistakable scent of rotten eggs in this wine, which usually indicates excessive amounts of sulfur were used during bottling. Apart from that we have a rough and tumble, rustic style with big fruit and a yeasty, chewy finish.

85

39

Champagne

Champagne Blend

11,567

US

Classic Petite Sirah aromas leap off the nose of this bottling, including dense black rocks, crushed gravel and lava rocks, a touch of espresso bean and a light brush of purple flowers. The palate starts juicy with ripe blueberry then grows complex through charred meat, tar and coffee. The tannins are still stiff but will mellow slowly.

91

38

California

Petite Sirah

63,211

US

This late-released bottling is incredibly interesting. Connoisseurs will appreciate the bone-dry minerality and acidity, the subtle creaminess from lees aging and the citrusy flavors that just begin to suggest tropical fruit. It should continue to develop in the bottle for a few more years.

93

45

California

Chardonnay

55,492

Italy

Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese and Syrah produce a sophisticated and refined blend that boasts fantastic power and intensity. The wine is dark, chewy, rich and bursting with flavors of mature berry, spice, cola, leather and tobacco.

92

35

Tuscany

Red Blend

68,421

US

This soft and approachable Merlot brims in smoke and oak, with subtle plum fruit. A slight layering of spice on the back of the palate is pleasing.

86

58

California

Merlot

78,863

US

Tough in tannins and soft in acids, this Malbec has a syrupy texture. The flavors of blackberries and currants have a raisiny, Porty edge.

82

24

California

Malbec

14,483

France

Still dominated by wood and toast aromas, this wine is certainly too young to drink. The wood needs to smooth out and allow room for the fruit. It will age, with its fresh fruits and acidity, so drink from 2017.

84

9

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

15,923

US

This cool vintage helps keep the alcohol down, but the seductive aromatics more than compensate. Varietal nuances of rosewater and other floral overtones enhance a rather delicate, elegant reserve. Raspberry fruit and highlights of baking spices continue through a persistent finish.

91

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

36,626

Italy

Truffle, ripe berry, plum, oak-driven spice, espresso and leather aromas lead the nose. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, raisin, licorice and tobacco alongside tightly knit tannins. It closes on a note of grilled herb. Drink 2016–2021.

91

40

Tuscany

Sangiovese

51,501

US

New oak stands out in this slightly sweet Chardonnay, giving a butterscotch taste to the pineapple and fig fruit. It has pleasant acidity.

85

28

California

Chardonnay

12,363

US

Flavors are restrained in this medium-bodied wine, so there are not a lot of fruits or herbs to shout out. However, it has a straightforward appeal and will make an unobtrusive pairing with many foods because it has a good, crisp mouth feel.

85

24

California

Chardonnay

123,641

US

A gentle, easy to drink Pinot, with pleasantly complex flavors of raspberry and cherry pie filling and new oak. The alcohol is high, making for a burn that might offend Pinot purists. But most fans will appreciate its sheer deliciousness. Drink now.

87

50

California

Pinot Noir

9,840

US

While a bit lean in concentration, yellow apple, pear and lemon are pristine and ripe on the nose and palate. The mouthfeel is a bit broad and flat but finishes briskly. Drink now.

86

18

New York

Chardonnay

127,194

Italy

A hint of initial sulfur blows off almost completely to leave fresh aromas of stone fruit, melon and honey. This Chardonnay has good natural structure and offers fruit flavors.

83

12

Northeastern Italy

Chardonnay

6,890

US

Thick and tannic, this wine, among all the single-varietal offerings from Griffin Creek, shows a bit more ripeness to the black, muscular fruits. It's dense in the mouth, with cassis, cocoa and coffee, bolstered with sharp, piercing acidity.

87

40

Oregon

Cabernet Franc

128,507

Italy

Truffle, underbrush, mature plum, saddle leather and a balsamic note emerge on this robust red. The hearty, one-dimensional palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice and grilled herb alongside solid if not very persistent tannins. You'll also notice the heat of alcohol on the rather quick, drying finish.

89

80

Tuscany

Sangiovese

27,390

US

Lean and tough, but not without a certain charm, this Cab's blackberry and currant flavors are wrapped in hard, edgy tannins. The sweet core of fruit will wake up when paired with rich beef dishes.

86

28

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

33,688

US

This cuvée gets some extra time in 40% new wood, and is bottled unfiltered. Plush blackberry and black cherry fruit flavors, accented with streaks of cola and chocolate, capture your attention. It's a rich tasty forward immediately enjoyable bottle, so go for it now through 2020.

90

35

Oregon

Pinot Noir

42,686

US

An opening act of spices, nutmeg and musk promises much. While offering up some appealing pear and apricot notes the palate doesn't quite deliver as both concentration and persistence are lacking.

84

19

New York

Riesling

45,079

US

The vineyard sits at nearly a half-mile in elevation, and you'll find true mountain concentration to the blackberry jam, black cherry, raspberry, licorice, pepper and molasses flavors. The alcohol is quite high, but the wine feels rich and balanced.

87

40

California

Zinfandel

73,021

Germany

Earthen notes of clay and pollen mingle with flavors of fresh grapefruit, lemon and lime in this sweet and savory spätlese. Its invigorating acidity and filigreed texture are classically Mosel. The finish lingers on a lacy tangerine sweetness.

90

30

Mosel

Riesling

83,029

US

Finding a good Anderson Valley Pinot Noir for under $25 is no easy feat and so this Husch bottling is impressive in delivering a fairly good experience for the price. A tad chewy still, with an oaky presence, it shows dark, ripe strawberry and mushroom-y flavors and finishes with some spice.

87

23

California

Pinot Noir

121,204

Italy

Aromas of red berry, blue flower and tilled soil lead the way on this young elegant wine. The fresh tightly wound palate shows cherry, licorice, sage and an iron note set against close-knit tannins. It's still youthfully austere so give it time to come around. Drink 2020–2031.

90

75

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

119,800

Argentina

Earthy blackberry aromas are spicy and moderately complex. Structured and sound on the palate, with a strong tannic framework, this tastes of well-defined cherry and cassis. Spice and chocolaty notes on the finish are barrel driven.

90

25

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

3,528

US

A good sense of concentration and depth make this medium-bodied wine taste big and satisfying without overdoing it. It has a very dark color, fruity and lightly spicy aromas, rich plum and black cherry flavors and rather mild tannins.

88

10

California

Red Blend

61,486

Italy

Tommasi's easy-going Romeo is a well-priced Italian red with fresh aromas of wild berries, blue flowers and slight shadings of sweet spice. Complete with a screw-cap closure, the wine would work well at picnics and informal lunches.

85

10

Northeastern Italy

Red Blend

123,172

Italy

This bright and fruit-forward Nebbiolo d'Alba offers clean notes of white cherry, raspberry and cassis. There's a subtle layer of tar, spice and licorice and the wine is fresh and well structured overall.

87

16

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

7,053

Argentina

Grassy, herbal aromas rest on top of basic red-fruit notes. This feels choppy and hollow, with flavors of buttery oak, chemical and red currant. The raw hot finish doesn't have a lot of body or padding.

84

13

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

63,365

Argentina

Raisiny black-fruit aromas are jammy and a clarion indicator of what's to come. In the mouth, this Malbec is saturated and chunky, with extreme ripeness. Flavors of raisin, prune and baked berry fruits come with secondary spice and pepper notes. The finish is earthy, heavy and rich but short on vibrancy.

88

19

Mendoza Province

Malbec

36,300

Italy

Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019.

90

57

Tuscany

Sangiovese

13,355

US

Keefer has not been Loring's most successful bottling. The '06 is pleasant, and in its own way delicious, with upfront raspberry, cherry, cola and smoky vanilla flavors balanced with crisp acidity. But it has a candied one-dimensionality, and doesn't seem likely to age.

85

50

California

Pinot Noir

29,073

Spain

Reddish in color and big on the bouquet, with sweet berry and cherry aromas. The palate is full and fun, with acidity and heavier, sweeter flavors of strawberry, raspberry and sweet plum. Handles its size well. Made from 80% Garnacha and 20% Graciano (for acidity).

86

10

Northern Spain

Rosé

70,097

US

Here the fruit seems to stay in the watermelon/strawberry range, not under-ripe, but more in a high-acid, Euro style. The oak aging (18 months) cloaks it in a lush coat of milk chocolate.

89

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

117,007

US

A simple, thin wine, with vegetable aromas and flavors that warm up a little in the glass to turn into sweet cherries.

82

42

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

122,207

US

This is the winery's sweet sparkling wine. It has the elegant structure, fine acidity and forward raspberry, strawberry, lime, vanilla and smoke flavors of the dry bruts, with a sugary finish, for those who like their bubblies on the sweet side.

86

15

California

Sparkling Blend

933

France

While the wine is firm and tannic at this early stage, it does have the potential to bring out a more fruity character. The red-berry fruits and acidity are there, promising a fresh wine from 2018.

87

16

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

101,321

US

A clean, bone-dry Sauvignon Blanc with plenty of mouthwatering acidity to get those tastebuds whistling. It has polished flavors of lemons, limes, grapefruits, vanilla and white pepper. Good value.

89

16

California

Sauvignon Blanc

77,568

US

Lush, full, forward, ripe and round fruit flavors of spiced plum and cherry pour from the glass. Rich, smooth and mouth coating, this instantly-accessible young Pinot finishes with pretty milk chocolate and light toast, a balanced and satisfying effort.

91

37

Oregon

Pinot Noir

83,460

US

Long hangtime fruit is the star of this Pinot, which is pretty much as good as the winery's more expensive bottlings, making it a comparative value. The raspberry, cherry, tea, cola and Indian spice flavors developed perfectly in this perfect vintage, giving the wine an elaborate richness, while crisp coastal acidity provides balancing tartness. It wants some time in the cellar. Give it until 2012 to begin to develop bottle complexity.

91

55

California

Pinot Noir

22,574

US

Hints of bergamot add a musky elegance to tropical notes of sweet melon and tangerine in this beautifully perfumed Riesling. There's a sugariness on the midpalate, but the finish is clean and brisk, with a shower of pink grapefruit acidity.

86

15

New York

Riesling

66,445

Italy

This is initially very closed and a little funky, but it soon opens up in the glass to reveal ripe black-skinned fruit, raisin and a whiff of kitchen spice. On the solid, no-frills palate, notes of fig and grilled sage back up a core of dried black cherry while close-grained grip the finish.

88

60

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

38,076

US

This might be one of Oregon's best Cabernet efforts to date. Yes, it's firm, with hard tannins, but time should allow that to settle down. In the meantime, there's char, road tar and caramel on the nose, while plum, cassis and chocolate dominate the rich, extracted palate. Toward the end it's the tannic structure that makes itself most felt. But again, some time in the cellar is probably all it requires.

89

28

Oregon

Cabernet Sauvignon

117,456

US

This wine's plum, vanilla, milk chocolate and blue fruit aromas are followed by a palate saturated with supersmooth fruit and barrel flavors. The variety isn't immediately apparent, but it's delicious all the same.

91

25

Washington

Merlot

96,646

US

One of Adam Lee's more affordable appellation blends, this delivers a lot of bang for the buck, with aromas of extracted strawberry, rich plum, sandalwood and a slate backbone. Soft red fruit starts the palate, then sharpens into cranberry, with lots of herbal spice and acidic sizzle throughout.

90

34

California

Pinot Noir

49,132

US

The second in Three Brothers' series of four Rieslings, this wine would be more accurately described as semisweet. There's a familiar hint of fennel and petroleum on the nose here, contrasted by a bright lemon-honey sweetness and hints of grapefruit.

84

13

New York

Riesling

27,521

Spain

Classic old-school Gran Reserva. The nose is full of barbecue, molasses and dried plum, while the palate has complexities in the form of tobacco, tire rubber and earth. It goes somewhat citrusy and quick on the finish, ending in a wash of orange-infused leather and chocolate. Drink now or hold for another 5 years.

88

25

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

20,263

US

At first high-toned, this opens nicely with crisp green apple fruit flavors. It's balanced and clear. Don't look for big, blowsy tropical flavors or buttery oak, though the barrel fermentation provides some texture to the finish. A great food wine.

87

18

Washington

Chardonnay

95,613

US

This wine is a blend of Sangiovese (52%), Cabernet Sauvignon (32%) and Syrah. Aromas of bittersweet chocolate, herb, pencil lead, smoke, cranberry and dark fruit lead to palate-coating black-fruit flavors that display depth and density. It shows a lovely sense of balance and detail.

91

50

Washington

Red Blend

97,149

France

Based in Bué, one of the top villages of Sancerre, this producer has made a ripe, crisp and nervy wine that comes from chalk soil. Tangy with a mineral texture, it offers rich currant and lime flavors and full-throated final acidity. Drink now.

87

25

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

36,367

Italy

Pretty aromas of stone fruit and yellow flower come together in the glass. The vertical palate delivers dried peach, yellow apple, nectarine zest and a flinty note balanced by bright acidity.

88

15

Veneto

White Blend

88,061

US

A bit less intense aromatically than other Adam Lee bottlings, this shows sour plum, smoked meat and a touch of garden herbs on the nose. Those elements come alive on the palate, where peppercorns, oregano, thyme and pencil lead decorate dark cranberry fruits.

90

49

California

Pinot Noir

46,200

US

The nose on this wine from the longtime Santa Ynez Valley producer is a bit faint, with wet lawn and lemon most apparent. The palate is more sensation-based than flavor-driven, all about light texture and simmering acidity, with green apple and lime skin elements.

89

15

California

Sauvignon Blanc

84,312

Italy

Red currant, blackberry, espresso, wood shavings and cedar aromas unfold in the glass. The palate offers dried black cherry, anise, coffee, coconut and oak alongside alongside drying tannins that leave an astringent finish. The fruit is starting to dry up so drink sooner rather than later.

88

65

Tuscany

Merlot

74,631

US

Aromas of black currant, dark chocolate and herb are followed by lightly concentrated dark-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a sense of astringency.

84

8

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

100,220

US

This bottling smells much like a bundle of freshly cleared sagebrush, with hints of fennel, charred tomato, wood, cola and wild black cherry. Its extremely soft mouthfeel massages the tongue with lush tannins, and its black cherry richness is cut by tart pomegranate-like acidity and lifted by cocoa, coffee and ginger spice notes.

92

56

California

Pinot Noir

46,435

US

This wine is a joy to drink with its aromas and flavors of coffee, dark chocolate, herbs and cherry. The opulently styled flavors are rich but well balanced, with chewy tannins backing it all up. It's irresistible.

92

34

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

82,749

Spain

Way too charred and roasted. The mouthfeel is acceptable and ranks as the best part of the wine. The rest is just a burnt, charred, overoaked mess with flavors of earthy berry, leather, peanut and resin. A poor effort that makes you wonder what the winery was thinking.

80

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

39,182

France

A spicy, wood-aged wine with a fine combination of pineapple and citrus fruit. With the spice from the wood, the wine is rich while keeping a line of pure bright acidity. Drink the wine from late 2017.

88

65

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

124,003

US

Quite grassy in aromas for a Chardonnay, this wine shows lemongrass, fennel, Gala apple and light honeydew melon on the nose. The palate is light and tight, with flavors of grapefruit and apples.

87

16

California

Chardonnay

31,703

US

Lusty and strong, this is Lodi Zinfandel at its most classic. It's a big, thick, softly ripe wine that floods the mouth with exuberant flavors of blackberry jam, chocolate, red and black currants and peppery spices. Easy to like. Drink now.

88

25

California

Zinfandel

101,783

US

This blend of 39% Mourvèdre, 31% Grenache, 21% Syrah and 9% Durif shows black-plum pastry notes on the nose as well as crushed asphalt, dried rose petals and smoked pork. A line of graphite minerality grabs the palate first, then comes dark red and olallieberry fruit that are lifted by notes of lilac, lavender and potpourri, followed by grippy tannins that entertain the mouth for awhile.

91

28

California

Red Blend