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
72,117	US	With a dash of Petite Sirah, this wine, made from century-old vineyards, is extraordinarily rich. It explodes with blackberry, cherry, raspberry, chocolate, anise, vanilla fudge, pepper and clove flavors. The wine is a little on the sweet side, but not too much.	86	24	California	Zinfandel
61,139	France	Lifted, fresh notes of peach on nose and palate somehow manage to pull off a wine of utter freshness that is soft, mellow and rounded at the same time. The peachy fruit pervades the entire palate which has just a smidgeon of residual sweetness and a helpful, balancing edge of pleasant bitterness.	91	38	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
43,344	US	This contends for the best $10 Riesling in the country. It's off dry, with 30g/L of residual sugar, but not too sweet for some Asian noodle entrées. The mouthfeel is thick and borders on syrupy, with penetrating flavors of mango, papaya and peaches. It could also be served after dinner with fruit and soft cheeses.	91	10	Oregon	Riesling
30,348	US	All the essential elements of a mainstream California Chardonnay come together in this medium-bodied wine, from a buttery and vanilla-like aroma to ripe pear flavors and accents of nutmeg. The texture is smooth and lingering, with an almost sweet finish.	88	16	California	Chardonnay
34,979	US	This was the first winery to make a truly white Pinot Noir (back in 2004). Produced exclusively from Pommard clones, it's barrel fermented and aged much like a Chardonnay. Along with great texture and length, there's plenty of acid supporting its palate-pleasing mix of white peach, melon and gooseberry. It finishes with a thread of lightly buttery caramel.	92	95	Oregon	Pinot Noir
65,879	Argentina	Three years ago Trapiche started making three high-end single-vineyard Malbecs; Aciar's seems a little more closed and flat than its cousins, but it does pump forward with rock-solid blackberry and cola flavors. It's better on the attack than the follow-through, but the flavors are excellent and the balance is proper even if the length is short.	90	47	Mendoza Province	Malbec
112,041	France	From a Provence estate bearing the name of the family that has owned it for 17 generations, this wine is crisp, fruity and bright. It has a light touch of acidity, as well as red currant and spice flavors. The wine, with its lively aftertaste, is in a fine apéritif style.	89	15	Provence	Rosé
100,365	US	Blackberry and ripe elderberry meet with white pepper and thyme on the nose of this bottling by winemaker Tyler Russell. It's soft and syrupy on the sip, with rich blueberry, blackberry and a touch of kirsch made more interesting by a hint of anise and mint on the finish.	92	36	California	Syrah
32,251	France	A touch of flinty funk hovers on the nose. The palate at first unfurls in a grapefruity zesty texture on which riper notions of pear and peach, quince and smoke are displayed. The merest touch of residual sweetness lends a baroque sheen to this tableau, always countered by spicy zesty freshness while being so seductive. The dry whistle-clean finish still tingles with that aromatic fruit of the concentrated midpalate. A great expression of the great 2015 vintage: rich but streamlined, seductive but contained and therefore all the more intriguing. Drink now through 2035.	94	40	Alsace	Riesling
14,364	US	This wine is an unusual blend of Barbera (40%), Malbec (25%), Sangiovese (21%) and Cabernet Franc. It works, with aromas of sweet baking spices, vanilla, cherry and herb that are followed by generous, velvety cherry flavors. The oak is very primary but it still brings appeal.	89	30	Washington	Red Blend
28,182	Italy	Aromas of pressed rose, dried berry, leather, chopped herb, cinnamon and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. The subtle palate delivers dried black cherry, black raspberry, licorice and a hint of tobacco alongside firm, ripe tannins. Enjoy sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit richness.	90	102	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
31,967	US	A barrel selection from the estate and Shaw vineyards, this spent a couple of years in new French oak. It shows good concentration and oak influence. Cassis fruit is underscored with vivid acidity, and the wine retains its balance through a long finish that offers highlights of smoke and char.	90	55	Washington	Red Blend
40,011	US	Brown sugar and chocolate make for a hedonistic experience in this brawny, powerful wine. It's well-composed in smoky char, juicy blackberry and a full-bodied finish of black pepper.	87	30	California	Zinfandel
93,232	France	This is a tightly textured wine that has plenty of green stone fruit as well as a bitter almond edge. It is taut, and the fruit has not completely surfaced yet. Age for three years.	90	40	Burgundy	Chardonnay
84,333	US	Blended from two-thirds Zinfandel and one-third Sangiovese, this red is rustic in smoky fruit, soft tannin, raisiny-plum compote and black olive. Moderate in acidity, it presents as fairly light bodied.	86	25	California	Zinfandel
57,267	Argentina	Smells murky, leafy and of compost. The palate is lean, dry and slightly rough, with green herb, tomato and light raspberry and strawberry flavors. Finishes herbal and tea-like, with more earthiness than clarity.	83	19	Mendoza Province	Pinot Noir
38,368	US	Ripe cranberry and raspberry scents combine with wet slate and marjoram on the nose of this bottling from the Dwarf Oak Vineyard, located in a historic winegrowing region. The palate is broad with macerated raspberry and strawberry fruit, spiced with garrigue and white pepper touches.	90	25	California	Pinot Noir
120,262	US	From a vineyard on the southern end of the Silverado Trail that's rich in iron and decomposed granite, this 100% varietal red is nicely crafted, displaying elegance and power in equal parts. Silky and inviting on the nose, it's exuberant and expansive on the palate, with cranberry and red currant fruit, the finish soft and intense.	92	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
38,756	US	This is 100% Syrah from three vineyards: Funk, Les Collines, and Ranch at the End of the Road. Seamless, sexy scents of blue and purple berries, vanilla, licorice, black tea and cut tobacco swirl up from the glass and carry through to the palate. One third of the fermentation include whole clusters, adding savory flavors to the finish. An elegant Syrah for lovers of the grape.	91	40	Washington	Syrah
85,224	Italy	Pio Cesare's Barbera is a modern interpretation of a traditional grape, and a well-done one at that. Refined notes of mocha, cinnamon and vanilla vie with vibrant strawberry fruit while lively acidity lifts and supports the wine. Coffee notes dominate the perfumed, medium-length finish.	88	22	Piedmont	Barbera
12,456	Italy	Encouraging aromas of bread dough and baked apple give way to a rubber note. Moderately flavorful in the mouth but somewhat mono-dimensional with a foamy mousse. Medium finish. Drink now.	84	24	Piedmont	Sparkling Blend
100,060	France	Ripe and full bodied, this is packed with tasty fruits. Notes of pear, apricot and white peach mingle easily together, creating a forward, wine with the right depth of flavor.	87	20	Burgundy	Chardonnay
84,221	US	Aromas of brioche, strawberry and citrus are fresh in style. The citrus and smoke flavors are light and lively, broadening at the finish.	89	45	Washington	Sparkling Blend
44,957	US	Simply constructed, this has flavors of orange, mango and buttered toast. This will appeal to many who like their white wines with some sweetness.	85	20	California	White Blend
21,485	US	This wine offers lively citrus and moderate acidity—a simple dry expression of the variety that refreshes. Stainless-steel fermented, it's been aged in both stainless and neutral Burgundy oak, adding complexity around the seasonings of lemongrass and ginger.	87	30	California	Sauvignon Blanc
87,578	US	This is a fun, easy drinker, showing zippy acidity and lots of mouthwatering clove and vanilla notes that frame flavors of Asian pear, orange and honeysuckle. It tastes just a bit off-dry, but it's refreshing and will pair well with Vietnamese and Ethiopian poultry-based dishes.	90	16	California	Gewürztraminer
118,137	Australia	Call me traditional, but 100% American oak (roughly one-third new) doesn't quite harmonize with sparkling Shiraz, at least in this instance. It's given a sappy, resiny, almost hoppy character that lingers on the palate, marrying uneasily with the black cherry fruit.	83	28	South Australia	Sparkling Blend
69,987	US	Opening with perfumy aromatics amid a core of cassis liqueur, this is a nicely balanced, easy-to-drink Cab that has concentration and finesse. With smatterings of Merlot, Syrah and Mourvèdre, it drinks well and will pair well, a serviceable choice for gatherings big and small.	87	15	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
4,375	US	Ripe red raspberry fruit fills the nose; this seems more fruit forward than most other Klipsun designates. The tannins have been wrangled into submission, giving the wine good balance immediately, while preserving the acidity and tannic depth to age well. The blend is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Merlot—a classic, un-fussy, straight-ahead Red Mountain style.	91	45	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
50,302	US	An old-school, non-interventionist style of Pinot Noir with a slightly tawny color on the rim and similarly mature flavors. This has earthy, tea-like aromas, flavors of dried cranberries and a mellow texture.	84	50	California	Pinot Noir
125,158	US	Dry, tough in tannins and acidic, this Merlot isn't offering much now. Despite a rich, concentrated vein of cherries, it's a hard, almost old-fashioned wine. Your best bet is to age it, but no guarantees. Try after 2012.	86	35	California	Merlot
90,370	US	This estate-grown, single-vineyard, 100% varietal bottling is smooth, rich and forward. Scents of baking spices, caramel and toast introduce a full and lengthy palate loaded with black cherry and cassis fruit. A steely firmness to the wine anticipates further development in the bottle.	93	55	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
86,334	Italy	A blend of Sangiovese and 10% Ciliegiolo, this wine has a fruit and spice aroma of crushed red berries, white pepper and clove with a whiff of coffee. The tightly woven palate delivers black cherry, black raspberry, chocolate, mocha and black pepper alongside assertive, tongue-drying tannins.	88	30	Tuscany	Red Blend
79,368	US	Pungent with strong aromas of stem and herb, the fruit suggests green banana and other minimally-ripe flavors. The wine is a bit disjointed, with stiff tannins and a green edge to the finish.	85	35	Oregon	Pinot Noir
37,273	US	Lightly aromatic with notes of yellow apple, pear and melon. It drinks off dry, with the sugar seeming out of place but followed by an extended finish with clarifying acidity.	88	19	Washington	Pinot Grigio
115,551	US	Softly tannic and direct in jammy blackberry, cherry and red plum flavors, with chocolate overtones that have a candied, sugary edge. Not showing a great deal of complexity now, but could evolve in a few years. Hard to predict.	88	49	California	Pinot Noir
3,567	France	The wine is full of fruit that's soft and smooth. It has a broad ripe texture that is subtly contrasted with the acidity and more zesty character. The wine is refreshing and fruity and ready to drink.	89	20	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
88,426	Spain	Pointy, pinched black-fruit aromas come with complex notes of graphite, tobacco, tree bark and horse hide. A young, fierce palate is tannic like sandpaper, while roasted blackberry flavors are backed by savory spice notes and wood grain. Big, lusty flavors of coffee, mocha and toast unfold on the finish, which is everlasting. Drink 2018–2028.	93	110	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
114,764	Italy	Made of 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Trebbiano, this opens with violet and underbrush notes. The light-bodied palate offers red plum fruit with a hint of brown spice, framed by simple tannins. Enjoy soon.	85	11	Tuscany	Red Blend
85,502	US	This is one of those Zinfandels that needs food. On its own, it's a rustic wine, sweet in red jam and raisins, tannic, acidic and fairly oaky. It has considerable complexity, coming from a century-old vineyard that contains at least a dozen grape varieties barely grown anymore in California. Will be excellent with any form of beef stew, short ribs, Mexican beef-centered food, or a lusty lasagna.	90	40	California	Zinfandel
31,792	US	Pretty good price for a Cab of this richness and balance. Offers dry, forward flavors of blackberries, cocoa, anise, spice and cedar, with an olivaceous streak. Drink now.	87	17	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
50,165	US	Sharply defined aromas, with a little funk at the base, lead into tart red fruits and flavors of slightly bitter herbs. The fruit fades quickly, leaving tart flavors of stem and leaf in its wake.	84	22	Washington	Syrah
88,884	US	So rich and seemingly sweet in black currant, chocolate fudge and toasted oak flavors, you can hardly keep from drinking the whole bottle now. But that would be a mistake. You don't want to age it so long that all the fruit drops out, but 8–10 years in the cellar should do just fine.	94	95	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
123,254	US	This is a very dry, crisp and minerally Viognier. It shows a structure of elegance and sophistication. Yet the underlying flavors of apricots, peaches, honeysuckle flowers, vanilla and sweet oak spice are savory. Drink now.	90	68	California	Viognier
86,190	US	This is a quiet blend of 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 19% Malbec, 18% Merlot and 18% Petit Verdot. It's delicate and light in toasted oak, with clove, tobacco, blueberry and cassis flavors. It finishes on a lingering licorice note.	93	75	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
17,439	US	Soft and gentle in the mouth, with a silky texture, this very ripe Cab shows jammy blackberry, cherry, vanilla and smoke flavors. This is the best Lake county Cab from Guenoc in years.	87	18	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
54,624	Italy	A sophisticated blend of Merlot, Cabernet and Sangioveto from the newly inaugurated Frassinello winery designed by architect Renzo Piano. It has deeply etched oak tones over blueberry and forest berry. The close is fresh and crisp with very good length.	90	45	Tuscany	Red Blend
48,387	France	Tight and still very young, this wine has great aging potential. The fruits show apricot and green plum balanced by a tense, steely minerality that cuts through like a razor. Ready to age for several years, this wine will be best from 2020.	94	146	Burgundy	Chardonnay
63,955	US	This is nicely dry and rich in fine tannins, with classic Cabernet blackberry, black currant, cola and cedar flavors. But the wine is so soft, it lacks structural integrity.	84	20	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
44,057	US	A big wine bursting with the wildest of brambly berry flavors, and a peppery, herbal hint of earth and wood. The tannins are smooth and dusty. It's a nice bit of winemaking, but a little too big and uncontrolled for its britches. —S.H.	88	28	California	Zinfandel
19,558	US	Here is a well-priced example of the outstanding 2014 Oregon Pinots. Black cherry and pomegranate fruits make for a juicy fresh fruit-driven palate. There's a touch of cola and caffè latte as well. It's seen 20% new French oak, to good effect.	90	26	Oregon	Pinot Noir
94,216	US	This is an extreme example of an extreme varietal. The color is black except for a thin purple rim. The aromas are like dark chocolate and subdued blueberry. Flavors convey a deep profusion of blackberry and boysenberry with hints of sweet oak. Very full-bodied, full-flavored and mouthfilling, it delivers power with polish.	92	26	California	Petite Sirah
38,725	France	Soft notes of ripe Comice pear are laced with fresh lemon hints in this Pinot Gris that is both textured and refreshing, a great example of the 2014 zestiness. Dry, precise and lasting, it is lovely now but will develop. Drink now until 2020.	90	29	Alsace	Pinot Gris
47,545	France	This second label of Château de Cérons is lightly honeyed, even though bone dry. It has a soft, ripe texture with yellow fruits as well as a streak of good acidity. The perfumed Sauvignon Gris adds attractiveness. Drink from late 2017.	88	17	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
108,280	US	Not much going on in this dry wine. It's thin in fruit, making the acidity stick out with a sharp cut.	82	14	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
13,625	US	Soft and rich with pineapple, lemon candy and oak flavors, this simple Chardonnay has the benefit of acidity for balance. It's a nice, basic Chard at an everyday price.	84	11	California	Chardonnay
23,756	France	Firmly tannic yet with enough sense of juicy fruit to act as a balance, this is a fine, rich wine, showing power and concentration with a solid, ripe structure. Give this wine at least five years to soften and round out.	88	27	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
82,852	France	This rich wine offers spice and black plum fruit flavors in equal measure. It's certainly ripe, but a fresher character adds lift. Tannins are already well-integrated into this velvet-textured wine. Drink from 2017.	88	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
28,796	US	A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 20 months in 40% new French oak, this wine has a brambly quality. Otherwise it's dusty and intense, offering high-impact swirls of cassis, pomegranate and dusty cocoa powder. From start to finish the wine is ripe yet juicy.	88	47	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
117,636	Italy	Concentrated but one-dimensional, this features aromas of stewed fruit, fig, almond, nail polish and coconut, all of which follow through to the warm, monolithic palate. It's already extremely evolved, and lacks vibrancy and complexity.	85	120	Tuscany	Sangiovese
57,526	US	Light, bright and refreshing, it offers pear spritzer, lime zest and a hint of guava on the nose, followed by citrus rind, light papaya and apple juice on the palate. It makes a nice bridge between the richness of Chardonnay and crispness of Sauvignon Blanc.	88	18	California	Chardonnay
45,592	Italy	Cedar, cassis, red currant and grilled herb aromas lead the nose in this blend of 85% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The palate offers pomegranate, raw red berries, anise, sage and roasted coffee bean alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish.	87	26	Tuscany	Red Blend
80,606	US	Bay Area biotech scientist-turned-vintner Kristie Tacey offers a solid wine with sandalwood, pomegranate and a slight bitterness on the nose. The palate also shows pomegranate along with rhubarb, backed up by graphite minerality and brown spice throughout.	92	38	California	Pinot Noir
82,477	Italy	This beautiful Riserva Brunello opens with dark richness and loads of mature berry flavors such as blackberry, maraschino cherry and cassis syrup. A cheerful spice element comes through on the mouth thanks to overtones of crushed clove and black pepper.	94	120	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
116,901	France	Firm and concentrated, this wine has ample weight and aging potential. Dry tannins are balanced by ripe berry fruit, juicy acidity and solid structure. Give this dense wine at least five years.	91	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
96,239	US	Here's a nice everyday Merlot. It's not only flavorful in cherry, black currant, raspberry, and mocha flavors, it has a velvety texture, and leaves behind a pleasantly dry, spicy finish.	85	15	California	Merlot
20,839	US	Under the Feather label, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon styled by Napa's Randy Dunn s the only one pure varietal red wine in the Long Shadows collection. Eucalyptus aromas rise instantly as it's poured, leading into a smooth, appealing flavors of plum and cassis fruit. It fades rather quickly, even after being open for a few hours, leaving just an impression of chocolate from the barrel aging. It lacks the heft of past vintages.	89	60	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
92,824	US	This is a light, well-balanced Yakima Valley take on Merlot, with fresh strawberry and raspberry fruit flavors lightly dusted with chocolate. A pleasant quaffing wine for sure, but nothing substantial about it.	85	23	Washington	Merlot
122,240	US	Vanilla, cherry and a crunch of barbecue chips greet the entry of this full-bodied, weighty wine that's soft in tannin. Baked plum and cinnamon make it inviting and satisfying on the palate, finishing with a zest of racy acidity.	88	44	California	Zinfandel
6,178	US	Touches of ginger and orange zest lighten up the ample fruit flavors of this well-balanced value-priced wine. It has good acidity to match the ripeness of the Anjou pear and white peach flavors.	87	8	California	Chardonnay
116,159	US	Elegantly smooth in the mouth, like silk and velvet—this has rich, forward blackberry, black currant and oak flavors. It feels dramatic and complex, a white-tablecloth Cabernet for pairing with fine meats and cheeses. Seems best now and for a couple more years.	90	59	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
18,353	Italy	The nose isn't very expressive but it eventually reveals notes of red berry with undertones of game and a whiff of barnyard. The palate offers crunchy red berry and a hint of clove alongside fresh acidity and soft tannins.	87	15	Tuscany	Red Blend
71,678	US	With some new oak, this is an easy Sauvignon Blanc, with jammy oranges, pineapples and apricots. The acidity is just fine, giving a bright edge to the fruit.	86	32	California	Sauvignon Blanc
34,706	US	This is fairly sweet, with flavors of honey, apricots, oranges, nectarines, white flowers, vanilla and minerals. Brisk acidity provides the perfect balance to the sweetness. Lovely now with Asian fusion fare.	88	22	California	Riesling
34,846	US	The oak is at the fore initially, with aromas of toast, char and exotic spice out in front of green herbs and purple fruit that become more prominent over time. The fruit flavors are sweet and sappy, with abundant toasty and vanilla accents throughout. It delivers enjoyment, but fruit and barrel seem to tussle a bit at times.	89	42	Washington	Malbec
73,043	US	Deep and sweet, but there's also an unusual and appetizing edge offered via cola nut and root beer. Any tartness to the blackberry fruit is offset by vanillin oak. Pleasurable, full-bodied and on the money. It's stylish good stuff with a correct amount of woody character.	91	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
127,909	US	Quite dark in the glass, this is a lush rather than lithe expression of the shapeshifting grape, with bright boysenberry, black plum, uncrushed peppercorn, soy, roast beef and espresso aromas. Black pepper shows on the palate, but blueberry and blackberry fruits dominate, boosted by a touch of dark chocolate and presented with solid acidic sizzle.	89	46	California	Cabernet Franc
10,687	France	Very Sauvignon, with a strongly herbal character, the wine is crisp, tight and with intense acidity. It is all tangy fruit, ready to drink.	84	14	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
118,937	US	A little too soft for true balance, but with pleasant cherry, cola, vanilla and spice flavors. Finishes abruptly. Drink now.	85	30	California	Pinot Noir
86,667	Italy	This is a simple and straightforward expression of Prosecco with tight perlage and medium aromas of white flower and citrus. That subtle but soft sweetness you taste would pair nicely next to vegetable tempura.	85	20	Veneto	Glera
119,365	US	Coming from a warm site in a warm vintage, this wine offers aromas of butter and baked apple. The palate yields lightly creamy flavors. The concentration is pulled back but what's there is quite pretty.	86	14	Washington	Chardonnay
4,773	Argentina	Chunky, slightly rubbery aromas revolve around black fruits and oak. This is a dense, thick wine with blackberry, plum, fig and bitter chocolate flavors. The finish is dark and weighty in this meaty Malbec.	90	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
56,605	Italy	Aromas of ground pepper, clove, mature plum, black currant and charred earth emerge on this Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc blend, with a whiff of game. The palate delivers dried black cherry, blackberry extract, licorice and grilled herbs alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. A tobacco note marks the close.	90	50	Tuscany	Red Blend
40,358	US	This wine offers immediate appeal, opening with aromas of black olive, funk, flowers and moist earth. It does not disappoint, with soft fruit and savory flavors that coat the palate. Meaty flavors add to the enjoyment and the balance is spot on.	92	32	Washington	Syrah
95,745	US	One-third of the wine went through whole-cluster fermentation, giving an edge to a fresh herb and moist earth component. A streak of iron and a touch of licorice surrounds firm cherry fruit. It's a solid effort that fades a bit quickly.	89	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
119,688	US	A rich style from winemaker Bill Brousseau, this shows smoked pork, plum, boysenberry and dashes of dried ginger on the nose. Rounded black-plum flavors arise on the palate then tighten toward elderberry, brisk cranberry, bay leaf and green peppercorn, altogether savory and tart.	92	64	California	Pinot Noir
128,651	US	From grapes grown in the cool Oak Knoll District, this wine was given time in neutral oak for less than a year, providing a soft lushness on the palate. Tropical and just slightly grassy, it offers a long finish marked with sizzling acidity.	90	29	California	Sauvignon Blanc
80,996	Argentina	Mango, papaya and vanilla aromas are lightly tropical and chunky. The palate is plump and fair. Flavors of green melon, papaya and mixed tropical fruits finish steady and with a reprise of leesy, yeasty vanilla.	85	14	Mendoza Province	Pinot Grigio
79,851	US	The cherry, red currant, cola and oak flavors are delicious on this bone-dry Cab. Structuraly, however, the wine is so soft that the palate searches in vain for firmness and grip to complete the flavor experience.	84	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
105,088	US	This is a perfect wine, both in accessible flavors and somewhat affordable price, for pizza night or meatballs. Cooked red plum, strawberry and a bit of cracked pepper kick off the nose in the Cabernet Franc-led blend, with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. More plum hits the palate along with peppery spices, tobacco and marjoram. It's easy but not overly simple.	89	22	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
38,037	US	From the warm appellation, this wine offers moderate structure and undeniable ripeness—a deep, brooding expression of dark chocolate, plum and leather.	90	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
767	Spain	Aromas of red licorice candy and raspberry are fruity, forward and clean. The palate is more than competent and balanced, with creamy strawberry and raspberry flavors. The finish is short but easy, and for the price that's all you can ask for.	87	9	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
68,772	Argentina	Hard and fiery, with spearmint dominating the nose. Raw and jumpy in the mouth, with hard berry and coffee flavors. Not much else to say about this tough wine; it's a fighter not a lover. Imported by USA Wine Imports.	81	9	Mendoza Province	Malbec
104,682	France	This is a light wine with tropical fruit flavors. The acidity and notes of almond and white fruit add to its rounded, ready-to-drink feel.	86	16	Burgundy	Chardonnay
22,497	US	Winemaker Kathy Joseph delivers this seven-barrel ode to her father, who'd be proud of the tight blackberry, wet clay, shaved cedar and iron-rich aromas. The acidity is bountiful but not overpowering on the palate, where elderberry, dried lavender, wild mint and damp earth combine for a deep and lasting sip.	94	88	California	Pinot Noir
26,790	Italy	Alluring aromas of mature dark berry, leather, Asian spice and a whiff of fragrant purple flower slowly take shape in the glass. The palate has weight and precision, doling out dried cherry, prune, espresso, anise and pipe tobacco. Firm, fine-grained provide polished support.	92	70	Veneto	Red Blend
128,026	Italy	Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this soft wine opens with aromas of ripe red berries, plum, blue flower and toasted oak. The palate offers fleshy black cherry accented with notes of coffee and chocolate accompanying round tannins. It's already extremely accessible so enjoy soon.	89	34	Tuscany	Red Blend
15,518	France	Smoky aromas add to the red fruits and manifest themselves on the palate as the spicy, toasty wood aging. The fruits are still developing, a series of rich berries and currants that will be ripe and generous. For the moment, the dry tannins dominate, so give this wine until 2018.	93	72	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
102,862	US	Anyone familiar with native varieties of grapes will recognize the “foxy” aromas and flavors in this otherwise well-made bubbly. The color, attack, acidity and finish are all good, and it’s dry as advertised, but that foxiness will be a problem for consumers used to vinifera grapes.	81	10	New York	Champagne Blend
38,428	US	Fess Parker's sister winery hits a savory home run with this blend of 62% Syrah and 38% Grenache, which presents game, leather, blackberry extract and sage on the nose. Purple fruit leads the palate, with dark chocolate on the midpalate and strong acidity and smooth tannins throughout.	93	44	California	Rhône-style Red Blend

72,117

US

With a dash of Petite Sirah, this wine, made from century-old vineyards, is extraordinarily rich. It explodes with blackberry, cherry, raspberry, chocolate, anise, vanilla fudge, pepper and clove flavors. The wine is a little on the sweet side, but not too much.

86

24

California

Zinfandel

61,139

France

Lifted, fresh notes of peach on nose and palate somehow manage to pull off a wine of utter freshness that is soft, mellow and rounded at the same time. The peachy fruit pervades the entire palate which has just a smidgeon of residual sweetness and a helpful, balancing edge of pleasant bitterness.

91

38

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

43,344

US

This contends for the best $10 Riesling in the country. It's off dry, with 30g/L of residual sugar, but not too sweet for some Asian noodle entrées. The mouthfeel is thick and borders on syrupy, with penetrating flavors of mango, papaya and peaches. It could also be served after dinner with fruit and soft cheeses.

91

10

Oregon

Riesling

30,348

US

All the essential elements of a mainstream California Chardonnay come together in this medium-bodied wine, from a buttery and vanilla-like aroma to ripe pear flavors and accents of nutmeg. The texture is smooth and lingering, with an almost sweet finish.

88

16

California

Chardonnay

34,979

US

This was the first winery to make a truly white Pinot Noir (back in 2004). Produced exclusively from Pommard clones, it's barrel fermented and aged much like a Chardonnay. Along with great texture and length, there's plenty of acid supporting its palate-pleasing mix of white peach, melon and gooseberry. It finishes with a thread of lightly buttery caramel.

92

95

Oregon

Pinot Noir

65,879

Argentina

Three years ago Trapiche started making three high-end single-vineyard Malbecs; Aciar's seems a little more closed and flat than its cousins, but it does pump forward with rock-solid blackberry and cola flavors. It's better on the attack than the follow-through, but the flavors are excellent and the balance is proper even if the length is short.

90

47

Mendoza Province

Malbec

112,041

France

From a Provence estate bearing the name of the family that has owned it for 17 generations, this wine is crisp, fruity and bright. It has a light touch of acidity, as well as red currant and spice flavors. The wine, with its lively aftertaste, is in a fine apéritif style.

89

15

Provence

Rosé

100,365

US

Blackberry and ripe elderberry meet with white pepper and thyme on the nose of this bottling by winemaker Tyler Russell. It's soft and syrupy on the sip, with rich blueberry, blackberry and a touch of kirsch made more interesting by a hint of anise and mint on the finish.

92

36

California

Syrah

32,251

France

A touch of flinty funk hovers on the nose. The palate at first unfurls in a grapefruity zesty texture on which riper notions of pear and peach, quince and smoke are displayed. The merest touch of residual sweetness lends a baroque sheen to this tableau, always countered by spicy zesty freshness while being so seductive. The dry whistle-clean finish still tingles with that aromatic fruit of the concentrated midpalate. A great expression of the great 2015 vintage: rich but streamlined, seductive but contained and therefore all the more intriguing. Drink now through 2035.

94

40

Alsace

Riesling

14,364

US

This wine is an unusual blend of Barbera (40%), Malbec (25%), Sangiovese (21%) and Cabernet Franc. It works, with aromas of sweet baking spices, vanilla, cherry and herb that are followed by generous, velvety cherry flavors. The oak is very primary but it still brings appeal.

89

30

Washington

Red Blend

28,182

Italy

Aromas of pressed rose, dried berry, leather, chopped herb, cinnamon and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. The subtle palate delivers dried black cherry, black raspberry, licorice and a hint of tobacco alongside firm, ripe tannins. Enjoy sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit richness.

90

102

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

31,967

US

A barrel selection from the estate and Shaw vineyards, this spent a couple of years in new French oak. It shows good concentration and oak influence. Cassis fruit is underscored with vivid acidity, and the wine retains its balance through a long finish that offers highlights of smoke and char.

90

55

Washington

Red Blend

40,011

US

Brown sugar and chocolate make for a hedonistic experience in this brawny, powerful wine. It's well-composed in smoky char, juicy blackberry and a full-bodied finish of black pepper.

87

30

California

Zinfandel

93,232

France

This is a tightly textured wine that has plenty of green stone fruit as well as a bitter almond edge. It is taut, and the fruit has not completely surfaced yet. Age for three years.

90

40

Burgundy

Chardonnay

84,333

US

Blended from two-thirds Zinfandel and one-third Sangiovese, this red is rustic in smoky fruit, soft tannin, raisiny-plum compote and black olive. Moderate in acidity, it presents as fairly light bodied.

86

25

California

Zinfandel

57,267

Argentina

Smells murky, leafy and of compost. The palate is lean, dry and slightly rough, with green herb, tomato and light raspberry and strawberry flavors. Finishes herbal and tea-like, with more earthiness than clarity.

83

19

Mendoza Province

Pinot Noir

38,368

US

Ripe cranberry and raspberry scents combine with wet slate and marjoram on the nose of this bottling from the Dwarf Oak Vineyard, located in a historic winegrowing region. The palate is broad with macerated raspberry and strawberry fruit, spiced with garrigue and white pepper touches.

90

25

California

Pinot Noir

120,262

US

From a vineyard on the southern end of the Silverado Trail that's rich in iron and decomposed granite, this 100% varietal red is nicely crafted, displaying elegance and power in equal parts. Silky and inviting on the nose, it's exuberant and expansive on the palate, with cranberry and red currant fruit, the finish soft and intense.

92

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

38,756

US

This is 100% Syrah from three vineyards: Funk, Les Collines, and Ranch at the End of the Road. Seamless, sexy scents of blue and purple berries, vanilla, licorice, black tea and cut tobacco swirl up from the glass and carry through to the palate. One third of the fermentation include whole clusters, adding savory flavors to the finish. An elegant Syrah for lovers of the grape.

91

40

Washington

Syrah

85,224

Italy

Pio Cesare's Barbera is a modern interpretation of a traditional grape, and a well-done one at that. Refined notes of mocha, cinnamon and vanilla vie with vibrant strawberry fruit while lively acidity lifts and supports the wine. Coffee notes dominate the perfumed, medium-length finish.

88

22

Piedmont

Barbera

12,456

Italy

Encouraging aromas of bread dough and baked apple give way to a rubber note. Moderately flavorful in the mouth but somewhat mono-dimensional with a foamy mousse. Medium finish. Drink now.

84

24

Piedmont

Sparkling Blend

100,060

France

Ripe and full bodied, this is packed with tasty fruits. Notes of pear, apricot and white peach mingle easily together, creating a forward, wine with the right depth of flavor.

87

20

Burgundy

Chardonnay

84,221

US

Aromas of brioche, strawberry and citrus are fresh in style. The citrus and smoke flavors are light and lively, broadening at the finish.

89

45

Washington

Sparkling Blend

44,957

US

Simply constructed, this has flavors of orange, mango and buttered toast. This will appeal to many who like their white wines with some sweetness.

85

20

California

White Blend

21,485

US

This wine offers lively citrus and moderate acidity—a simple dry expression of the variety that refreshes. Stainless-steel fermented, it's been aged in both stainless and neutral Burgundy oak, adding complexity around the seasonings of lemongrass and ginger.

87

30

California

Sauvignon Blanc

87,578

US

This is a fun, easy drinker, showing zippy acidity and lots of mouthwatering clove and vanilla notes that frame flavors of Asian pear, orange and honeysuckle. It tastes just a bit off-dry, but it's refreshing and will pair well with Vietnamese and Ethiopian poultry-based dishes.

90

16

California

Gewürztraminer

118,137

Australia

Call me traditional, but 100% American oak (roughly one-third new) doesn't quite harmonize with sparkling Shiraz, at least in this instance. It's given a sappy, resiny, almost hoppy character that lingers on the palate, marrying uneasily with the black cherry fruit.

83

28

South Australia

Sparkling Blend

69,987

US

Opening with perfumy aromatics amid a core of cassis liqueur, this is a nicely balanced, easy-to-drink Cab that has concentration and finesse. With smatterings of Merlot, Syrah and Mourvèdre, it drinks well and will pair well, a serviceable choice for gatherings big and small.

87

15

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

4,375

US

Ripe red raspberry fruit fills the nose; this seems more fruit forward than most other Klipsun designates. The tannins have been wrangled into submission, giving the wine good balance immediately, while preserving the acidity and tannic depth to age well. The blend is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Merlot—a classic, un-fussy, straight-ahead Red Mountain style.

91

45

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

50,302

US

An old-school, non-interventionist style of Pinot Noir with a slightly tawny color on the rim and similarly mature flavors. This has earthy, tea-like aromas, flavors of dried cranberries and a mellow texture.

84

50

California

Pinot Noir

125,158

US

Dry, tough in tannins and acidic, this Merlot isn't offering much now. Despite a rich, concentrated vein of cherries, it's a hard, almost old-fashioned wine. Your best bet is to age it, but no guarantees. Try after 2012.

86

35

California

Merlot

90,370

US

This estate-grown, single-vineyard, 100% varietal bottling is smooth, rich and forward. Scents of baking spices, caramel and toast introduce a full and lengthy palate loaded with black cherry and cassis fruit. A steely firmness to the wine anticipates further development in the bottle.

93

55

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

86,334

Italy

A blend of Sangiovese and 10% Ciliegiolo, this wine has a fruit and spice aroma of crushed red berries, white pepper and clove with a whiff of coffee. The tightly woven palate delivers black cherry, black raspberry, chocolate, mocha and black pepper alongside assertive, tongue-drying tannins.

88

30

Tuscany

Red Blend

79,368

US

Pungent with strong aromas of stem and herb, the fruit suggests green banana and other minimally-ripe flavors. The wine is a bit disjointed, with stiff tannins and a green edge to the finish.

85

35

Oregon

Pinot Noir

37,273

US

Lightly aromatic with notes of yellow apple, pear and melon. It drinks off dry, with the sugar seeming out of place but followed by an extended finish with clarifying acidity.

88

19

Washington

Pinot Grigio

115,551

US

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

88

49

California

Pinot Noir

3,567

France

The wine is full of fruit that's soft and smooth. It has a broad ripe texture that is subtly contrasted with the acidity and more zesty character. The wine is refreshing and fruity and ready to drink.

89

20

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

88,426

Spain

Pointy, pinched black-fruit aromas come with complex notes of graphite, tobacco, tree bark and horse hide. A young, fierce palate is tannic like sandpaper, while roasted blackberry flavors are backed by savory spice notes and wood grain. Big, lusty flavors of coffee, mocha and toast unfold on the finish, which is everlasting. Drink 2018–2028.

93

110

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

114,764

Italy

Made of 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Trebbiano, this opens with violet and underbrush notes. The light-bodied palate offers red plum fruit with a hint of brown spice, framed by simple tannins. Enjoy soon.

85

11

Tuscany

Red Blend

85,502

US

This is one of those Zinfandels that needs food. On its own, it's a rustic wine, sweet in red jam and raisins, tannic, acidic and fairly oaky. It has considerable complexity, coming from a century-old vineyard that contains at least a dozen grape varieties barely grown anymore in California. Will be excellent with any form of beef stew, short ribs, Mexican beef-centered food, or a lusty lasagna.

90

40

California

Zinfandel

31,792

US

Pretty good price for a Cab of this richness and balance. Offers dry, forward flavors of blackberries, cocoa, anise, spice and cedar, with an olivaceous streak. Drink now.

87

17

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

50,165

US

Sharply defined aromas, with a little funk at the base, lead into tart red fruits and flavors of slightly bitter herbs. The fruit fades quickly, leaving tart flavors of stem and leaf in its wake.

84

22

Washington

Syrah

88,884

US

So rich and seemingly sweet in black currant, chocolate fudge and toasted oak flavors, you can hardly keep from drinking the whole bottle now. But that would be a mistake. You don't want to age it so long that all the fruit drops out, but 8–10 years in the cellar should do just fine.

94

95

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

123,254

US

This is a very dry, crisp and minerally Viognier. It shows a structure of elegance and sophistication. Yet the underlying flavors of apricots, peaches, honeysuckle flowers, vanilla and sweet oak spice are savory. Drink now.

90

68

California

Viognier

86,190

US

This is a quiet blend of 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 19% Malbec, 18% Merlot and 18% Petit Verdot. It's delicate and light in toasted oak, with clove, tobacco, blueberry and cassis flavors. It finishes on a lingering licorice note.

93

75

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

17,439

US

Soft and gentle in the mouth, with a silky texture, this very ripe Cab shows jammy blackberry, cherry, vanilla and smoke flavors. This is the best Lake county Cab from Guenoc in years.

87

18

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

54,624

Italy

A sophisticated blend of Merlot, Cabernet and Sangioveto from the newly inaugurated Frassinello winery designed by architect Renzo Piano. It has deeply etched oak tones over blueberry and forest berry. The close is fresh and crisp with very good length.

90

45

Tuscany

Red Blend

48,387

France

Tight and still very young, this wine has great aging potential. The fruits show apricot and green plum balanced by a tense, steely minerality that cuts through like a razor. Ready to age for several years, this wine will be best from 2020.

94

146

Burgundy

Chardonnay

63,955

US

This is nicely dry and rich in fine tannins, with classic Cabernet blackberry, black currant, cola and cedar flavors. But the wine is so soft, it lacks structural integrity.

84

20

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

44,057

US

A big wine bursting with the wildest of brambly berry flavors, and a peppery, herbal hint of earth and wood. The tannins are smooth and dusty. It's a nice bit of winemaking, but a little too big and uncontrolled for its britches. —S.H.

88

28

California

Zinfandel

19,558

US

Here is a well-priced example of the outstanding 2014 Oregon Pinots. Black cherry and pomegranate fruits make for a juicy fresh fruit-driven palate. There's a touch of cola and caffè latte as well. It's seen 20% new French oak, to good effect.

90

26

Oregon

Pinot Noir

94,216

US

This is an extreme example of an extreme varietal. The color is black except for a thin purple rim. The aromas are like dark chocolate and subdued blueberry. Flavors convey a deep profusion of blackberry and boysenberry with hints of sweet oak. Very full-bodied, full-flavored and mouthfilling, it delivers power with polish.

92

26

California

Petite Sirah

38,725

France

Soft notes of ripe Comice pear are laced with fresh lemon hints in this Pinot Gris that is both textured and refreshing, a great example of the 2014 zestiness. Dry, precise and lasting, it is lovely now but will develop. Drink now until 2020.

90

29

Alsace

Pinot Gris

47,545

France

This second label of Château de Cérons is lightly honeyed, even though bone dry. It has a soft, ripe texture with yellow fruits as well as a streak of good acidity. The perfumed Sauvignon Gris adds attractiveness. Drink from late 2017.

88

17

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

108,280

US

Not much going on in this dry wine. It's thin in fruit, making the acidity stick out with a sharp cut.

82

14

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

13,625

US

Soft and rich with pineapple, lemon candy and oak flavors, this simple Chardonnay has the benefit of acidity for balance. It's a nice, basic Chard at an everyday price.

84

11

California

Chardonnay

23,756

France

Firmly tannic yet with enough sense of juicy fruit to act as a balance, this is a fine, rich wine, showing power and concentration with a solid, ripe structure. Give this wine at least five years to soften and round out.

88

27

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

82,852

France

This rich wine offers spice and black plum fruit flavors in equal measure. It's certainly ripe, but a fresher character adds lift. Tannins are already well-integrated into this velvet-textured wine. Drink from 2017.

88

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

28,796

US

A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 20 months in 40% new French oak, this wine has a brambly quality. Otherwise it's dusty and intense, offering high-impact swirls of cassis, pomegranate and dusty cocoa powder. From start to finish the wine is ripe yet juicy.

88

47

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

117,636

Italy

Concentrated but one-dimensional, this features aromas of stewed fruit, fig, almond, nail polish and coconut, all of which follow through to the warm, monolithic palate. It's already extremely evolved, and lacks vibrancy and complexity.

85

120

Tuscany

Sangiovese

57,526

US

Light, bright and refreshing, it offers pear spritzer, lime zest and a hint of guava on the nose, followed by citrus rind, light papaya and apple juice on the palate. It makes a nice bridge between the richness of Chardonnay and crispness of Sauvignon Blanc.

88

18

California

Chardonnay

45,592

Italy

Cedar, cassis, red currant and grilled herb aromas lead the nose in this blend of 85% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The palate offers pomegranate, raw red berries, anise, sage and roasted coffee bean alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish.

87

26

Tuscany

Red Blend

80,606

US

Bay Area biotech scientist-turned-vintner Kristie Tacey offers a solid wine with sandalwood, pomegranate and a slight bitterness on the nose. The palate also shows pomegranate along with rhubarb, backed up by graphite minerality and brown spice throughout.

92

38

California

Pinot Noir

82,477

Italy

This beautiful Riserva Brunello opens with dark richness and loads of mature berry flavors such as blackberry, maraschino cherry and cassis syrup. A cheerful spice element comes through on the mouth thanks to overtones of crushed clove and black pepper.

94

120

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

116,901

France

Firm and concentrated, this wine has ample weight and aging potential. Dry tannins are balanced by ripe berry fruit, juicy acidity and solid structure. Give this dense wine at least five years.

91

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

96,239

US

Here's a nice everyday Merlot. It's not only flavorful in cherry, black currant, raspberry, and mocha flavors, it has a velvety texture, and leaves behind a pleasantly dry, spicy finish.

85

15

California

Merlot

20,839

US

Under the Feather label, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon styled by Napa's Randy Dunn s the only one pure varietal red wine in the Long Shadows collection. Eucalyptus aromas rise instantly as it's poured, leading into a smooth, appealing flavors of plum and cassis fruit. It fades rather quickly, even after being open for a few hours, leaving just an impression of chocolate from the barrel aging. It lacks the heft of past vintages.

89

60

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

92,824

US

This is a light, well-balanced Yakima Valley take on Merlot, with fresh strawberry and raspberry fruit flavors lightly dusted with chocolate. A pleasant quaffing wine for sure, but nothing substantial about it.

85

23

Washington

Merlot

122,240

US

Vanilla, cherry and a crunch of barbecue chips greet the entry of this full-bodied, weighty wine that's soft in tannin. Baked plum and cinnamon make it inviting and satisfying on the palate, finishing with a zest of racy acidity.

88

44

California

Zinfandel

6,178

US

Touches of ginger and orange zest lighten up the ample fruit flavors of this well-balanced value-priced wine. It has good acidity to match the ripeness of the Anjou pear and white peach flavors.

87

8

California

Chardonnay

116,159

US

Elegantly smooth in the mouth, like silk and velvet—this has rich, forward blackberry, black currant and oak flavors. It feels dramatic and complex, a white-tablecloth Cabernet for pairing with fine meats and cheeses. Seems best now and for a couple more years.

90

59

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

18,353

Italy

The nose isn't very expressive but it eventually reveals notes of red berry with undertones of game and a whiff of barnyard. The palate offers crunchy red berry and a hint of clove alongside fresh acidity and soft tannins.

87

15

Tuscany

Red Blend

71,678

US

With some new oak, this is an easy Sauvignon Blanc, with jammy oranges, pineapples and apricots. The acidity is just fine, giving a bright edge to the fruit.

86

32

California

Sauvignon Blanc

34,706

US

This is fairly sweet, with flavors of honey, apricots, oranges, nectarines, white flowers, vanilla and minerals. Brisk acidity provides the perfect balance to the sweetness. Lovely now with Asian fusion fare.

88

22

California

Riesling

34,846

US

The oak is at the fore initially, with aromas of toast, char and exotic spice out in front of green herbs and purple fruit that become more prominent over time. The fruit flavors are sweet and sappy, with abundant toasty and vanilla accents throughout. It delivers enjoyment, but fruit and barrel seem to tussle a bit at times.

89

42

Washington

Malbec

73,043

US

Deep and sweet, but there's also an unusual and appetizing edge offered via cola nut and root beer. Any tartness to the blackberry fruit is offset by vanillin oak. Pleasurable, full-bodied and on the money. It's stylish good stuff with a correct amount of woody character.

91

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

127,909

US

Quite dark in the glass, this is a lush rather than lithe expression of the shapeshifting grape, with bright boysenberry, black plum, uncrushed peppercorn, soy, roast beef and espresso aromas. Black pepper shows on the palate, but blueberry and blackberry fruits dominate, boosted by a touch of dark chocolate and presented with solid acidic sizzle.

89

46

California

Cabernet Franc

10,687

France

Very Sauvignon, with a strongly herbal character, the wine is crisp, tight and with intense acidity. It is all tangy fruit, ready to drink.

84

14

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

118,937

US

A little too soft for true balance, but with pleasant cherry, cola, vanilla and spice flavors. Finishes abruptly. Drink now.

85

30

California

Pinot Noir

86,667

Italy

This is a simple and straightforward expression of Prosecco with tight perlage and medium aromas of white flower and citrus. That subtle but soft sweetness you taste would pair nicely next to vegetable tempura.

85

20

Veneto

Glera

119,365

US

Coming from a warm site in a warm vintage, this wine offers aromas of butter and baked apple. The palate yields lightly creamy flavors. The concentration is pulled back but what's there is quite pretty.

86

14

Washington

Chardonnay

4,773

Argentina

Chunky, slightly rubbery aromas revolve around black fruits and oak. This is a dense, thick wine with blackberry, plum, fig and bitter chocolate flavors. The finish is dark and weighty in this meaty Malbec.

90

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

56,605

Italy

Aromas of ground pepper, clove, mature plum, black currant and charred earth emerge on this Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc blend, with a whiff of game. The palate delivers dried black cherry, blackberry extract, licorice and grilled herbs alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. A tobacco note marks the close.

90

50

Tuscany

Red Blend

40,358

US

This wine offers immediate appeal, opening with aromas of black olive, funk, flowers and moist earth. It does not disappoint, with soft fruit and savory flavors that coat the palate. Meaty flavors add to the enjoyment and the balance is spot on.

92

32

Washington

Syrah

95,745

US

One-third of the wine went through whole-cluster fermentation, giving an edge to a fresh herb and moist earth component. A streak of iron and a touch of licorice surrounds firm cherry fruit. It's a solid effort that fades a bit quickly.

89

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

119,688

US

A rich style from winemaker Bill Brousseau, this shows smoked pork, plum, boysenberry and dashes of dried ginger on the nose. Rounded black-plum flavors arise on the palate then tighten toward elderberry, brisk cranberry, bay leaf and green peppercorn, altogether savory and tart.

92

64

California

Pinot Noir

128,651

US

From grapes grown in the cool Oak Knoll District, this wine was given time in neutral oak for less than a year, providing a soft lushness on the palate. Tropical and just slightly grassy, it offers a long finish marked with sizzling acidity.

90

29

California

Sauvignon Blanc

80,996

Argentina

Mango, papaya and vanilla aromas are lightly tropical and chunky. The palate is plump and fair. Flavors of green melon, papaya and mixed tropical fruits finish steady and with a reprise of leesy, yeasty vanilla.

85

14

Mendoza Province

Pinot Grigio

79,851

US

The cherry, red currant, cola and oak flavors are delicious on this bone-dry Cab. Structuraly, however, the wine is so soft that the palate searches in vain for firmness and grip to complete the flavor experience.

84

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

105,088

US

This is a perfect wine, both in accessible flavors and somewhat affordable price, for pizza night or meatballs. Cooked red plum, strawberry and a bit of cracked pepper kick off the nose in the Cabernet Franc-led blend, with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. More plum hits the palate along with peppery spices, tobacco and marjoram. It's easy but not overly simple.

89

22

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

38,037

US

From the warm appellation, this wine offers moderate structure and undeniable ripeness—a deep, brooding expression of dark chocolate, plum and leather.

90

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

767

Spain

Aromas of red licorice candy and raspberry are fruity, forward and clean. The palate is more than competent and balanced, with creamy strawberry and raspberry flavors. The finish is short but easy, and for the price that's all you can ask for.

87

9

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

68,772

Argentina

Hard and fiery, with spearmint dominating the nose. Raw and jumpy in the mouth, with hard berry and coffee flavors. Not much else to say about this tough wine; it's a fighter not a lover. Imported by USA Wine Imports.

81

9

Mendoza Province

Malbec

104,682

France

This is a light wine with tropical fruit flavors. The acidity and notes of almond and white fruit add to its rounded, ready-to-drink feel.

86

16

Burgundy

Chardonnay

22,497

US

Winemaker Kathy Joseph delivers this seven-barrel ode to her father, who'd be proud of the tight blackberry, wet clay, shaved cedar and iron-rich aromas. The acidity is bountiful but not overpowering on the palate, where elderberry, dried lavender, wild mint and damp earth combine for a deep and lasting sip.

94

88

California

Pinot Noir

26,790

Italy

Alluring aromas of mature dark berry, leather, Asian spice and a whiff of fragrant purple flower slowly take shape in the glass. The palate has weight and precision, doling out dried cherry, prune, espresso, anise and pipe tobacco. Firm, fine-grained provide polished support.

92

70

Veneto

Red Blend

128,026

Italy

Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this soft wine opens with aromas of ripe red berries, plum, blue flower and toasted oak. The palate offers fleshy black cherry accented with notes of coffee and chocolate accompanying round tannins. It's already extremely accessible so enjoy soon.

89

34

Tuscany

Red Blend

15,518

France

Smoky aromas add to the red fruits and manifest themselves on the palate as the spicy, toasty wood aging. The fruits are still developing, a series of rich berries and currants that will be ripe and generous. For the moment, the dry tannins dominate, so give this wine until 2018.

93

72

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

102,862

US

Anyone familiar with native varieties of grapes will recognize the “foxy” aromas and flavors in this otherwise well-made bubbly. The color, attack, acidity and finish are all good, and it’s dry as advertised, but that foxiness will be a problem for consumers used to vinifera grapes.

81

10

New York

Champagne Blend

38,428

US

Fess Parker's sister winery hits a savory home run with this blend of 62% Syrah and 38% Grenache, which presents game, leather, blackberry extract and sage on the nose. Purple fruit leads the palate, with dark chocolate on the midpalate and strong acidity and smooth tannins throughout.

93

44

California

Rhône-style Red Blend