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
28,418	US	Purple and tannic, with a grapey aroma and a suggestion of dusty earth. The most interesting of RiverAerie's pure varietals, perhaps because of its high-toned, slightly volatile mouthfeel. Berry/cherry fruit comes through sharply, then quickly fades into herbal tannins.	86	24	Washington	Malbec
93,757	Spain	Leathery plum and raspberry aromas are earthy and emphasize red-fruit qualities over black ones. A hard, tannic mouthfeel is drubbing, while a fully oaked flavor profile includes vanilla, butter and other oak-based notes in addition to raspberry and plum. A creamy, oaky flavor leads the way on a woody finish. Drink through 2030.	91	43	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
10,697	US	This wine's intense grapey, jammy aromas lead to very fruity and blackberry jam, melted butter and strawberry syrup flavors. It's medium bodied and sweet.	84	5	California	Red Blend
101,695	France	The second wine of Château Fonplégade is fresh and bright with good fruits, berry flavors and some richness. It has good poise; ready to drink in 2–3 years.	87	45	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
6,470	France	Big and fruity, this is very lively, balancing butteriness with green-fruit acidity. The wine is maturing quickly, its tension is fading into rich, wood-flavored fruitiness.	91	70	Burgundy	Chardonnay
125,563	US	This bottling, which includes 20% Sémillon, offers aromas of cut grass, sliced Anjou pear and a lemon-lime freshness on the nose. Sour Granny Smith apple and green lime rinds rule the palate, making for a solid and classic style of Sauv Blanc.	89	24	California	Sauvignon Blanc
94,817	Italy	Made with organically farmed fruit, this is redolent of honeydew, jasmine, white peach and rose. It has a soft, foamy quality to its effervescence.	87	16	Veneto	Glera
108,519	US	This is very tannic yet very elegant. With a dry, astringent mouthfeel, it has a powerful heart of red and black cherries. Aging this wine is a bit of a gamble, but trying cellaring it until 2015. Otherwise, drink it with foods that are compatible with astringent, dry red wines.	90	65	California	Cabernet Franc
4,355	Italy	Leather, underbrush, grilled herb and charred earth aromas take center stage, accented by a balsamic note. The structured, medium-bodied palate offers juicy black cherry, coffee, licorice and rosemary flavors, framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink or hold a few more years.	90	25	Tuscany	Red Blend
12,955	US	X is for extra dry, and this is, made from 74% Pinot Noir, the remainder Chardonnay. It jumps out of the glass in an explosion of nutty, salty lemon peel, dry as a bone and rewarding in its full embrace of minerality. This sparkler begs for oysters and a skiff out to sea.	94	50	California	Sparkling Blend
24,772	US	Simply delicious, this Zin is well mannered and not too full bodied. Aromas of this dry and elegant wine are like cinnamon and cardamom, and flavors are a little smoky and full of cherries. The mouthfeel is good and gripping due to fine tannins and supportive acidity.	93	33	California	Zinfandel
27,136	Italy	This opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, mature berry, menthol and anise. The palate offers dried blackberry, raisin and licorice alongside close-grained tannins and brisk acidity.	87	30	Piedmont	Barbera
123,354	Australia	This medium-bodied Barossa blend displays supple tannins and a silky finish, making it immediately accessible. Hints of smoke and sweat and complexity to the currant aromas and flavors.	87	16	South Australia	Red Blend
12,666	US	Made from a mix of 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir, this delivers sweet peach and homemade biscuit scents. A dry, seductive mousse gives it body, while moderate acidity—which presents as fresh lemon peel flavor—gives it lift.	90	50	California	Sparkling Blend
83,199	US	High-toned aromas of cocoa, toast, mixed green herb and dark fruit lead to tart cherry and cranberry flavors that bring a pucker factor. It shows a very lovely sense of balance that keeps the interest high. Give it some additional time in bottle or a short decant.	91	65	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
79,655	US	This coastal wine hails from two sites, including the Gloria Vineyard in Sebastopol, and Hummingbird Hill in the Petaluma Gap. It stays true to form in its light approach and high-toned acidity. Earthy, light in color and bristling in black tea, cranberry and pomegranate, it's lightly spiced in cardamom.	91	33	California	Pinot Noir
92,648	US	Made in the earthy style this pioneering winery is known for, showing mushroom-inflected wild strawberries, spices and sandalwood. The acid-tannin balance is such that this Pinot could age up to 6–8 years.	91	48	California	Pinot Noir
87,409	US	Apricot, melon and caramel apple provide an alluring richness to this concentrated, full-bodied wine, which finds its balance in texture and power as it opens in the glass. Pretty aromatics provide the counterpoint to the curvy lustiness at its core, offering focus and finesse.	94	68	California	Chardonnay
37,436	France	This is a ripe rounded wine. It has generous apricot and red-berry fruits that are lifted by spice. The schist soil gives a mineral edge to the wine while the acidity in the background is just right to give this wine its crisp aftertaste. Drink this balanced wine now.	90	20	Provence	Rosé
80,249	US	Slightly funk kiwi, dried apples and dried white-flower aromas show on the nose of this appellation blend. Flavors are flat and muted, with a flash of sweet apples.	84	14	California	Chardonnay
88,235	Spain	Ink, graphite, lemon peel, licorice root and reedy berry aromas combine into a solid, somewhat complex whole. This feels snappy and pure, with medium weight. Toasty flavors of plum and berry fruits are earthy and deep, while this finishes in good shape, with moderate complexity.	89	15	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
12,790	US	A bracing, tart Riesling, quite dry and still under 13% alcohol, this mixes green apples, fresh citrus, pineapple and unusual suggestions of clove and spice. It's a fine follow-up to the winery's excellent 2007 bottling, though perhaps not quite as concentrated.	90	16	Oregon	Riesling
7,074	US	Simple and sugary, with blackberry and cherry jam flavors and a solid plaster of sweet, caramelized oak. Production was 20,000 cases.	83	28	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
8,016	US	Made from 100% Cab Franc, this is a soft, rather one-dimensional wine. It has complex flavors of cherries, red currants, cola, white pepper and herbs, but is short on structure and interest. Drink now.	86	40	California	Cabernet Franc
66,770	US	Hints of white blossom and lemon are pleasant in this zesty, full-bodied wine, but are accompanied by savory tones of dusty mineral and white button mushroom. The finish is brisk but clean.	85	28	New York	Sauvignon Blanc
9,318	US	There's a bit more fruit—cherry, cranberry—and no dust to this Cigare compared to other Bonny Doon bottlings, but blacker aromas of asphalt and char persist. The blend of 36% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre and 19% Cinsault delivers strong tannins and flavors of a black-and-blue filet mignon topped with a wild berry reduction sauce	92	38	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
30,900	Italy	This savory blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo leads with earthy aromas of freshly tilled soil, underbrush, black berries and plum. The vibrant, structured palate offers sour cherry layered with white pepper, thyme and sage balanced by fresh acidity and a solidly tannic backbone. Hold to develop complexity. Drink 2015–2020.	91	35	Tuscany	Red Blend
126,506	US	Young and vigorous now, marked by tannins and dryness that mask the fruit, making the wine somewhat aloof. However, the fruit is huge. It's ripe and succulent in blackberries and black cherries, and you'll find additional notes of smoked meat and black pepper for complexity. A wonderful Syrah that needs 3–5 years to blossom.	92	42	California	Syrah
100,097	US	There's a slightly dusty, grassy element to this understated Sauvignon Blanc, but the palate is nicely concentrated, with abundant yellow-peach and tangerine flavors. The lemonade-like acidity is brisk and refreshing. Drink now.	85	15	New York	Sauvignon Blanc
96,405	France	From organically grown fruit, this is a soft, lemon- and pear-flavored wine. It has plenty of fresh acidity as well as a warm, full-in-the-mouth character. The aftertaste brings out touches of vanilla as well as the acidity.	85	25	Burgundy	Chardonnay
39,407	Germany	While the nose of this ethereal, lithe Riesling is a bit bashful, glorious shades of tangerine, quince and peach await on the palate. High-toned acidity pierces through sweet honey and nectar, darting into a long, minerally finish. It's stunning now, but should develop with integrity for at least another decade.	92	28	Mosel	Riesling
26,154	US	This proprietary blend combines 52% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, another in its line of Aaron Pott-made wines. It's lovable in its austerity and varietal suggestions of dried herb, cedar and green bean. Dusty, soft tannins support a full-bodied, straightforward structure.	89	135	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
97,186	US	Dull and vegetal. Tastes like canned asparagus juice, with a squeeze of citrus.	80	19	California	Sauvignon Blanc
14,614	US	From the cooler reaches of the Petaluma Gap, a sub-area of the larger Sonoma Coast that is awaiting its own appellation status, this Pinot was made with 25% whole-cluster berries, giving it a rough-hewn, earthy edginess that's appealing in the glass. Tightly wound cherry and cranberry complete the picture, with a taste of dried herb and black tea on the lengthy finish.	91	39	California	Pinot Noir
100,123	US	The grapes come from a vineyard thought to be the first planted or grafted to Tempranillo in the Mokelumne River appellation. Fields picks the fruit relatively early and treats it to only neutral oak, the result a tamed, more flavorful version of the variety. Soft, leathery, spicy and subtly loaded in blackberry and black cherry fruit, it's well worth seeking out.	90	22	California	Tempranillo
76,262	US	The flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, mocha and sweet toasty oak mark this wine, which was grown in St. Helena. It's ripe, soft and flashy, and instantly appealing. Drink now.	87	68	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
82,154	US	This rich and creamy wine definitely pulls out the new barrel flavors, with buttery nut, salted caramel and toast notes highlighting its ripe peach and apple fruit. From vines planted in 1989, it's styled for drinking right now.	91	45	Oregon	Chardonnay
61,165	US	Richness and ripeness are immediate draws to this Pinot. It's lusciously ripe with raspberries and cherries, but perky with acidity and a jacket of smooth tannins. It's quite nice to drink now, with everything from pork or steak to pizza.	87	27	California	Pinot Noir
72,533	US	The production of Malbec at Three Rivers has risen dramatically, and the new vintage seems considerably lighter and less complex than it previously did. Fruity and forward, it shows black cherry and cola flavors, with a light streak of licorice.	87	29	Washington	Malbec
90,930	US	This tastes soft, sweet and simple. The blend is Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Columbard and Gewurztraminer.	80	10	California	White Blend
106,209	US	Grown in the southern section of the valley in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, this rare varietal bottling from this appellation shows aromas of cranberry, raspberry and citrus, along with some hints of oxidation. It's tart and full in feel, not seeming entirely varietally correct.	86	35	Washington	Pinot Noir
72,813	Italy	Fruity aromas of red and black berry lead the nose along with whiffs of violet and dark cooking spices. The vibrant, supple palate doles out wild cherry, black raspberry, orange zest and ground pepper framed in racy, refreshing acidity.	89	20	Piedmont	Barbera
93,083	US	This supple, seductive and sublime white is tart with acidity and bolstered by supportive oak. Pear, quince and an underlying hint of apple blossom combine in a lovely and focused expression on the palate that feels at once classic and balanced.	92	38	California	Chardonnay
77,144	Italy	Dark extraction and concentrated fruit set the stage. The wine has soft touches of blackberry fruit and plump cherry that are inevitably followed by tight tannins and sharp acidity. This is an astringent, firm wine that should be paired with fatty foods.	88	60	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
40,536	US	What a delicious Zin this is. Sourced from the warm climates of Lodi and Amador County, it's ripe and fruity, offering waves of wild raspberries and cherries dusted with brown sugar, cocoa and pie spice. Great value in a lusty, versatile Zin.	89	11	California	Zinfandel
9,512	US	Saracina makes dazzling white wines, but this intense red is outstanding too. Dark fruits like blackberry mingle with bright raspberry in this hefty, substantial wine that's full bodied and handsomely tannic. It's dry, very textural in the mouth and concentrated well enough for a lingering finish.	92	30	California	Zinfandel
98,278	US	A blend of Merlot (62%), Cabernet Sauvignon (23%), Malbec (6%), Cabernet Franc (5%) and Petit Verdot, this wine opens with aromas of cocoa powder, spice, dark cherries, savory herbs and flowers, displaying pleasing complexities. The palate is full of exquisitely balanced red and black-fruit flavors that sail off into the distance on the finish.	91	38	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
19,041	US	Smells and tastes thin and stemmy, with watered down cherry and cola flavors. On the plus side, it's dry and silky.	84	14	California	Pinot Noir
94,359	US	Soft and fruity, this has ripe black-cherry and blackberry compote flavors, plus plenty of oak influence. Drink now.	85	19	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
89,466	US	The producer's highest-end bottling, this is tightly wound in fine-grained tannins with complex, diverse undertones of chocolate mocha, cherry-vanilla, black tea and garrigue. Layered and balanced, it sends gentle waves of black currant and cassis to the palate, a floral element lurking behind the proceedings. This well-made wine will cellar nicely, through 2032.	95	185	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
10,610	US	Blueberry pie, black plum, licorice and a touch of tobacco show on the inviting nose of this solid bottling from the Morgan Hill producer. The palate is very well integrated and delicious, with blackberry jam, vanilla cookies and strong espresso flavors, framed by sticky, prominent tannins.	91	28	California	Petite Sirah
77,865	France	Soft and ripe, this wine is all fruit and sweet acidity. There is a light yet generous mouthfeel, with its tannins following its open fruitiness.	85	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
3,957	US	This weirdly named wine is a blend of 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. It's a bit soft and melted in texture, like liquid licorice, with flavors of cherries, red currants, mocha, anise and smoky oak, and the finish is dry. Notable for the elegance and purity of its tannin structure.	90	105	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
2,069	US	A good Cab, dry and balanced, whose tannins are richly impressive and sweet. Shows a good tension between the oak and the ripe black currants. Easy to like, and should develop for a few years.	90	35	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
70,828	Germany	Subtle notes of crushed mineral and lime on the nose contrast the lush tangerine and orange flavors in this off-dry, concentrated wine. It's harmoniously sweet, balanced neatly by strikes of steel and acid that tighten the finish. Drink now through 2019.	89	13	Mosel	Riesling
41,154	US	While not as full-bodied and complex as the winery's Les Pionniers bottling, their Tradition is considerably less expensive. Like Pionniers, it's unoaked and bright with acidity, with savory citrus and tropical fruit, green grass, honey and spice flavors.	89	30	California	Sauvignon Blanc
45,012	France	Fulsome notes of ripe, juicy pear lead straight to a fluid, concentrated palate that holds a whole world of ripe pear flavors. This is still deep in its shell, ringing with primary fruit but burying many layers of spiced joy: think marzipan and gingerbread. This is one for laying down that will reward patient drinkers. The deep core of fruit, the concentration on the midpalate and the ultraclean finish all suggest a great future. Drink 2018–2028.	94	105	Alsace	Pinot Gris
43,529	France	This is seaside Provence rosé right down to the traditional shape of the bottle. It is fresh and bright, with berry fruits and lively acidity. Drink as an apéritif.	84	15	Provence	Rosé
35,880	US	Lots of tangy acidity in this Chard, and tannins too. It has a grainy, stubborn mouthfeel. Shows plenty of pineapple, orange, apricot and lime flavors, with sweet oak essence, but cant quite overcome that resistant tug. Drink now.	87	39	California	Chardonnay
83,310	Italy	Aromas of wild berry, graphite, dark cooking spice and grilled herb lead the nose. The concentrated palate shows dense black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice, clove, toast and a hint of espresso accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.	92	65	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
7,343	Italy	Fragrances recall wet leaves, underbrush, forest berries and baking spices with a touch of espresso. The palate reveals black cherry accented with black pepper and espresso alongside bracing, tongue-drying tannins. This is a big wine, but the fruit isn't quite rich enough to support the evident alcohol.	88	50	Tuscany	Sangiovese
86,613	US	Planted in 1979, the Wädenswil block brings raspberry, cherry and cola flavors together into a nicely textured wine with a wide streak of vanilla. Round and forward, it gently resolves into a balanced finish with light highlights of herb, nutmeg and coffee.	92	60	Oregon	Pinot Noir
38,337	France	From vineyards owned by the Gagey family, this wine is ripe, easy to drink and full of fruit. Its strawberry and red cherry flavors are lifted by acidity and grounded in balancing tannins. It is made to be drunk young and will be ready from late 2017.	87	38	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
49,936	US	Isolated as a single clone, this limited bottling comes across as sharp and grassy, with some sour plum fruit. The finish carries a hint of asparagus.	85	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
122,174	US	Lighter in color than the typical Cabernet from the state, this wine brings appealing notes of coffee, dusty chocolate and dark plum. The extraction is dialed back giving a very elegant feel to the fruit flavors and tannins, with vanilla lingering on the finish.	88	30	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
91,625	US	From a well-farmed site, this wine is invitingly floral in apple-blossom notes, followed by fully developed flavors of peach and meringue. Earthy and complete, it offers concentration and balance.	92	45	California	Chardonnay
82,892	Spain	The overriding character of this basic Rioja is raisiny, ripe berry fruit; it's on the nose, palate and finish. Alongside these notes are mild tannins, some rubbery weight and chunky friendliness.	85	14	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
35,156	US	A pretty good Pinot Noir, elegantly silky as it should be, with flavors of tart cherries, cola, red licorice and sandalwood. It's a bit too soft and sweet, but easy to drink.	86	22	California	Pinot Noir
86,180	US	Sultry black-cherry and berry flavors and ripe deeply integrated tannins are held upright by a strident backbone of acidity in this elegantly structured Cabernet Franc. Swathes of fresh peppery greens offset sweet spice and vanilla tones on the midpalate. It's an elegant, deeply textural wine that's lovely already but should only improve through at least 2025.	93	55	New York	Cabernet Franc
109,784	US	Herb, stem, green olive and floral aromas lead to generous fruit and savory flavors that carry though the finish. It shows a lot of finesse and a beautiful sense of balance.	92	65	Washington	Syrah
92,189	Italy	Made of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, this opens with plum and violet aromas. Mellow tannins frame a palate of red cherry and baking spice flavors. Enjoy soon.	87	16	Tuscany	Red Blend
67,209	Italy	Made with Sangiovese, this shows ripe berry and black pepper aromas with a whiff of tobacco leaf. The bright palate delivers a tight core of black cherry accented with mint, white pepper and a hint of cocoa. Pair this with barbecued meats and grilled vegetables.	90	20	Tuscany	Sangiovese
26,141	Spain	A fresh and lively style of Rioja, with red-fruit aromas leading straight to a no-issues palate full of ripe plum and cherry flavors. The wine is uncomplicated, smooth and even a little chocolaty.	89	30	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
24,768	US	Pungent earth opens this wine, the small-production label of Napa Valley geologist and worldwide soils expert Dr. Paul Skinner, who has named it appropriately to mark its literal roots. A strip of red berry and vanilla highlight the palate of this overall bright and balanced wine.	93	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
87,677	US	This 100% varietal wine offers aromas of coffee, green herbs, pencil lead and vanilla followed by silky cherry and dark chocolate flavors. There's plenty of appeal but the variety seems to get lost.	88	24	Oregon	Merlot
115,634	US	Despite the Columbia Valley label this is all Red Mountain, old-vine Merlot from the winery's estate vineyard. Raspberry, mocha, clove and spice aromas lead to supple, understated fruit flavors and an extended finish. It's a perfect example of what makes this variety special in Washington.	91	25	Washington	Merlot
94,800	Italy	Packaged with a grape cutting tied to the neck of the bottle, this generous wine shows aromas of ripe melon, apricot and tangerine skin. There's a fresh note of sweet honeysuckle on the close.	87	14	Veneto	Pinot Grigio
13,220	US	Substantial in dense red plum and black cherry, this dry, chewy wine will benefit from a decant or time in the glass. It furnishes a high-toned kick of acidity on the finish.	86	22	California	Merlot
102,129	US	Whiffs of cedar and baking spices lead to ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors in this well-balanced and easy to appreciate wine. The ample fruit flavors are hard to resist, and the supple, modestly tannic texture is just right.	90	32	California	Barbera
34,664	US	The grapes for this wine are grown at 1,500-foot elevation, from a site that provides more coolness than the appellation's valley floor, a data point that becomes relevant to the taste and aroma of this wine. Spice, leather and garrigue combine for a seamless, soft and ageable experience, the wine dark and brooding in blackberry and bacon, yet beautifully aromatic in fresh violet and lavender. Enjoy through 2020.	93	50	California	Syrah
69,383	US	There's a fresh, juicy sense of dark cherry and cranberry in this medium-bodied wine. A lurking forested, mushroomy earthiness hovers around it as well, the finish awash in rich, dark toasty oak accented by notes of chocolate.	88	50	California	Pinot Noir
36,773	Italy	This is a big, modern wine that delivers thick oak renderings stacked tall against smaller offerings of black fruit. Aromas of leather, spice and vanilla are dominant, and the wine is characterized by firm tannins. Drink after 2010.	86	60	Tuscany	Red Blend
96,101	US	Fresh green herbs and granite notes add a lean, angular elegance to the concentrated black-cherry flavor in this wine. It's bold in structure with penetrating tannins that linger on the finish.	87	25	New York	Cabernet Sauvignon
91,110	Germany	Whiffs of caramelized sugar and smoked nuts accent aromas of ripe, concentrated peaches and nectarines on this intensely juicy semi-sweet Riesling. It's fruitiness makes it unabashedly approachable, but it's stately in feel with bold mineral and smoky earth tones that linger on the finish.	91	20	Mosel	Riesling
15,527	France	Finely rounded wine, smoky wood and spice combining well with ripe yellow fruits. The acidity is rather underplayed, but all the other elements are well in place. The aftertaste shows more ripe fruit character.	89	30	Burgundy	Chardonnay
115,440	US	Fresh, primary red-cherry and raspberry flavors get a kick of cherry-cola spice and vanilla here. It's an approachably plummy, juicy red with soft, feathery tannins, but puckering cranberry acidity keeps it fresh. Drink now through 2020.	87	34	New York	Cabernet Franc
35,701	US	Beguiling aromas of honeysuckle, lime, peach and baking spices are followed by palate-coating stone-fruit flavors. It shows an impeccable sense of balance.	90	23	Washington	Viognier
59,691	US	Coming from the winery's estate vineyard in The Rocks District, this aromatic brooder shows notes of crushed flowers, wet stone, orange peel, brown stems and dark fruit, along with lightly smoked meat accents. The palate boasts generous fruit and savory flavors that linger on the finish.	92	60	Washington	Syrah
71,493	Italy	Here's a fragrant and delicate Chardonnay from the far north of Italy that delivers aromas of honeysuckle, passion fruit and almond skin. The wine has fresh appeal and zesty spice on the close that makes it a natural companion to fish and vegetable dishes.	87	20	Northeastern Italy	Chardonnay
125,099	France	Vines situated close to the fortified citadel of Blaye have produced this bright and shiny 2014. With its clear red-berry fruits, black currants and acidity, it is immediately attractive. The tannins, a great support to the fruit, promise some aging. Drink now, or, better yet, wait until 2018.	88	22	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
37,747	US	There's a slightly gamy, pleasantly rustic touch to the nose of this hearty bottling, with a broad and deep boysenberry base spiced up by dark cola, nutmeg and wet gravel aromas. The mouthfeel is very full and the tannic structure is tight, propping up flavors of dark mulberry, tree bark and more roasted game.	93	55	California	Pinot Noir
27,187	Italy	This excellent blend of Chardonnay and Friulano offers a rich and reassuring feel in the mouth that would stand up to creamy artichoke risotto or white meat. Its beautiful aromas include melon, pear, apricot and a touch of butterscotch.	90	41	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
43,432	France	This wine is smoky, ripe and packed with tannins. The fruit gives the wine weight although it is not yet fully developed. There is a toasty background to this rich wine with its juicy red-berry fruits and acidity. Drink from 2019.	89	55	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
46,669	US	Intended as a take on Rioja, this is noticeably volatile, dusty and loaded with chocolaty barrel flavors. Cocoa and raspberry are in the mix, but it's chocolate that runs away with the finish.	85	29	Oregon	Tempranillo
128,655	US	This wine is immediately appealing with vibrant aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, white peach and wet stone. It drinks off dry, with a fleshy feel and drawn-out fruit flavors that linger.	90	19	Washington	Riesling
54,174	US	This single-vineyard wine offers high-toned citrus, almond and vanilla bean flavors. Fresh and fruity, it's light bodied yet doesn't skimp on flavor or texture, finishing on a tart note of lemon pith.	90	24	California	Sauvignon Blanc
95,581	US	This Syrah, blended with 9% Cabernet, tastes of dark fruit, tobacco and leather. But there's an odd aroma lurking in the wine's background that's hard to pinpoint and not entirely pleasant.	84	16	California	Syrah
122,531	US	Tasted pre-release, this is clearly ready for prime time. It's both compact and generous, with a core of wild berries soaked in minerals. The words lucid and crystalline come to mind—rarely applied to a red wine, let alone Cab Franc.	90	30	Washington	Cabernet Franc
5,728	US	Plum clafouti and a marriage of cherry and clove provide a foundation above which lies a spicy mix of dried herb and cedar in this integrated, softly approachable wine of medium-build and length.	90	42	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
13,050	US	Cola spice dominates the nose of this thick, concentrated wine from the heart of Westside Road. Stemmy earth notes accompany its ripe red fruit, as toasted oak and vanilla flavors extend long into the finish.	90	85	California	Pinot Noir

28,418

US

Purple and tannic, with a grapey aroma and a suggestion of dusty earth. The most interesting of RiverAerie's pure varietals, perhaps because of its high-toned, slightly volatile mouthfeel. Berry/cherry fruit comes through sharply, then quickly fades into herbal tannins.

86

24

Washington

Malbec

93,757

Spain

Leathery plum and raspberry aromas are earthy and emphasize red-fruit qualities over black ones. A hard, tannic mouthfeel is drubbing, while a fully oaked flavor profile includes vanilla, butter and other oak-based notes in addition to raspberry and plum. A creamy, oaky flavor leads the way on a woody finish. Drink through 2030.

91

43

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

10,697

US

This wine's intense grapey, jammy aromas lead to very fruity and blackberry jam, melted butter and strawberry syrup flavors. It's medium bodied and sweet.

84

5

California

Red Blend

101,695

France

The second wine of Château Fonplégade is fresh and bright with good fruits, berry flavors and some richness. It has good poise; ready to drink in 2–3 years.

87

45

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

6,470

France

Big and fruity, this is very lively, balancing butteriness with green-fruit acidity. The wine is maturing quickly, its tension is fading into rich, wood-flavored fruitiness.

91

70

Burgundy

Chardonnay

125,563

US

This bottling, which includes 20% Sémillon, offers aromas of cut grass, sliced Anjou pear and a lemon-lime freshness on the nose. Sour Granny Smith apple and green lime rinds rule the palate, making for a solid and classic style of Sauv Blanc.

89

24

California

Sauvignon Blanc

94,817

Italy

Made with organically farmed fruit, this is redolent of honeydew, jasmine, white peach and rose. It has a soft, foamy quality to its effervescence.

87

16

Veneto

Glera

108,519

US

This is very tannic yet very elegant. With a dry, astringent mouthfeel, it has a powerful heart of red and black cherries. Aging this wine is a bit of a gamble, but trying cellaring it until 2015. Otherwise, drink it with foods that are compatible with astringent, dry red wines.

90

65

California

Cabernet Franc

4,355

Italy

Leather, underbrush, grilled herb and charred earth aromas take center stage, accented by a balsamic note. The structured, medium-bodied palate offers juicy black cherry, coffee, licorice and rosemary flavors, framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink or hold a few more years.

90

25

Tuscany

Red Blend

12,955

US

X is for extra dry, and this is, made from 74% Pinot Noir, the remainder Chardonnay. It jumps out of the glass in an explosion of nutty, salty lemon peel, dry as a bone and rewarding in its full embrace of minerality. This sparkler begs for oysters and a skiff out to sea.

94

50

California

Sparkling Blend

24,772

US

Simply delicious, this Zin is well mannered and not too full bodied. Aromas of this dry and elegant wine are like cinnamon and cardamom, and flavors are a little smoky and full of cherries. The mouthfeel is good and gripping due to fine tannins and supportive acidity.

93

33

California

Zinfandel

27,136

Italy

This opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, mature berry, menthol and anise. The palate offers dried blackberry, raisin and licorice alongside close-grained tannins and brisk acidity.

87

30

Piedmont

Barbera

123,354

Australia

This medium-bodied Barossa blend displays supple tannins and a silky finish, making it immediately accessible. Hints of smoke and sweat and complexity to the currant aromas and flavors.

87

16

South Australia

Red Blend

12,666

US

Made from a mix of 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir, this delivers sweet peach and homemade biscuit scents. A dry, seductive mousse gives it body, while moderate acidity—which presents as fresh lemon peel flavor—gives it lift.

90

50

California

Sparkling Blend

83,199

US

High-toned aromas of cocoa, toast, mixed green herb and dark fruit lead to tart cherry and cranberry flavors that bring a pucker factor. It shows a very lovely sense of balance that keeps the interest high. Give it some additional time in bottle or a short decant.

91

65

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

79,655

US

This coastal wine hails from two sites, including the Gloria Vineyard in Sebastopol, and Hummingbird Hill in the Petaluma Gap. It stays true to form in its light approach and high-toned acidity. Earthy, light in color and bristling in black tea, cranberry and pomegranate, it's lightly spiced in cardamom.

91

33

California

Pinot Noir

92,648

US

Made in the earthy style this pioneering winery is known for, showing mushroom-inflected wild strawberries, spices and sandalwood. The acid-tannin balance is such that this Pinot could age up to 6–8 years.

91

48

California

Pinot Noir

87,409

US

Apricot, melon and caramel apple provide an alluring richness to this concentrated, full-bodied wine, which finds its balance in texture and power as it opens in the glass. Pretty aromatics provide the counterpoint to the curvy lustiness at its core, offering focus and finesse.

94

68

California

Chardonnay

37,436

France

This is a ripe rounded wine. It has generous apricot and red-berry fruits that are lifted by spice. The schist soil gives a mineral edge to the wine while the acidity in the background is just right to give this wine its crisp aftertaste. Drink this balanced wine now.

90

20

Provence

Rosé

80,249

US

Slightly funk kiwi, dried apples and dried white-flower aromas show on the nose of this appellation blend. Flavors are flat and muted, with a flash of sweet apples.

84

14

California

Chardonnay

88,235

Spain

Ink, graphite, lemon peel, licorice root and reedy berry aromas combine into a solid, somewhat complex whole. This feels snappy and pure, with medium weight. Toasty flavors of plum and berry fruits are earthy and deep, while this finishes in good shape, with moderate complexity.

89

15

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

12,790

US

A bracing, tart Riesling, quite dry and still under 13% alcohol, this mixes green apples, fresh citrus, pineapple and unusual suggestions of clove and spice. It's a fine follow-up to the winery's excellent 2007 bottling, though perhaps not quite as concentrated.

90

16

Oregon

Riesling

7,074

US

Simple and sugary, with blackberry and cherry jam flavors and a solid plaster of sweet, caramelized oak. Production was 20,000 cases.

83

28

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

8,016

US

Made from 100% Cab Franc, this is a soft, rather one-dimensional wine. It has complex flavors of cherries, red currants, cola, white pepper and herbs, but is short on structure and interest. Drink now.

86

40

California

Cabernet Franc

66,770

US

Hints of white blossom and lemon are pleasant in this zesty, full-bodied wine, but are accompanied by savory tones of dusty mineral and white button mushroom. The finish is brisk but clean.

85

28

New York

Sauvignon Blanc

9,318

US

There's a bit more fruit—cherry, cranberry—and no dust to this Cigare compared to other Bonny Doon bottlings, but blacker aromas of asphalt and char persist. The blend of 36% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre and 19% Cinsault delivers strong tannins and flavors of a black-and-blue filet mignon topped with a wild berry reduction sauce

92

38

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

30,900

Italy

This savory blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo leads with earthy aromas of freshly tilled soil, underbrush, black berries and plum. The vibrant, structured palate offers sour cherry layered with white pepper, thyme and sage balanced by fresh acidity and a solidly tannic backbone. Hold to develop complexity. Drink 2015–2020.

91

35

Tuscany

Red Blend

126,506

US

Young and vigorous now, marked by tannins and dryness that mask the fruit, making the wine somewhat aloof. However, the fruit is huge. It's ripe and succulent in blackberries and black cherries, and you'll find additional notes of smoked meat and black pepper for complexity. A wonderful Syrah that needs 3–5 years to blossom.

92

42

California

Syrah

100,097

US

There's a slightly dusty, grassy element to this understated Sauvignon Blanc, but the palate is nicely concentrated, with abundant yellow-peach and tangerine flavors. The lemonade-like acidity is brisk and refreshing. Drink now.

85

15

New York

Sauvignon Blanc

96,405

France

From organically grown fruit, this is a soft, lemon- and pear-flavored wine. It has plenty of fresh acidity as well as a warm, full-in-the-mouth character. The aftertaste brings out touches of vanilla as well as the acidity.

85

25

Burgundy

Chardonnay

39,407

Germany

While the nose of this ethereal, lithe Riesling is a bit bashful, glorious shades of tangerine, quince and peach await on the palate. High-toned acidity pierces through sweet honey and nectar, darting into a long, minerally finish. It's stunning now, but should develop with integrity for at least another decade.

92

28

Mosel

Riesling

26,154

US

This proprietary blend combines 52% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, another in its line of Aaron Pott-made wines. It's lovable in its austerity and varietal suggestions of dried herb, cedar and green bean. Dusty, soft tannins support a full-bodied, straightforward structure.

89

135

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

97,186

US

Dull and vegetal. Tastes like canned asparagus juice, with a squeeze of citrus.

80

19

California

Sauvignon Blanc

14,614

US

From the cooler reaches of the Petaluma Gap, a sub-area of the larger Sonoma Coast that is awaiting its own appellation status, this Pinot was made with 25% whole-cluster berries, giving it a rough-hewn, earthy edginess that's appealing in the glass. Tightly wound cherry and cranberry complete the picture, with a taste of dried herb and black tea on the lengthy finish.

91

39

California

Pinot Noir

100,123

US

The grapes come from a vineyard thought to be the first planted or grafted to Tempranillo in the Mokelumne River appellation. Fields picks the fruit relatively early and treats it to only neutral oak, the result a tamed, more flavorful version of the variety. Soft, leathery, spicy and subtly loaded in blackberry and black cherry fruit, it's well worth seeking out.

90

22

California

Tempranillo

76,262

US

The flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, mocha and sweet toasty oak mark this wine, which was grown in St. Helena. It's ripe, soft and flashy, and instantly appealing. Drink now.

87

68

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

82,154

US

This rich and creamy wine definitely pulls out the new barrel flavors, with buttery nut, salted caramel and toast notes highlighting its ripe peach and apple fruit. From vines planted in 1989, it's styled for drinking right now.

91

45

Oregon

Chardonnay

61,165

US

Richness and ripeness are immediate draws to this Pinot. It's lusciously ripe with raspberries and cherries, but perky with acidity and a jacket of smooth tannins. It's quite nice to drink now, with everything from pork or steak to pizza.

87

27

California

Pinot Noir

72,533

US

The production of Malbec at Three Rivers has risen dramatically, and the new vintage seems considerably lighter and less complex than it previously did. Fruity and forward, it shows black cherry and cola flavors, with a light streak of licorice.

87

29

Washington

Malbec

90,930

US

This tastes soft, sweet and simple. The blend is Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Columbard and Gewurztraminer.

80

10

California

White Blend

106,209

US

Grown in the southern section of the valley in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, this rare varietal bottling from this appellation shows aromas of cranberry, raspberry and citrus, along with some hints of oxidation. It's tart and full in feel, not seeming entirely varietally correct.

86

35

Washington

Pinot Noir

72,813

Italy

Fruity aromas of red and black berry lead the nose along with whiffs of violet and dark cooking spices. The vibrant, supple palate doles out wild cherry, black raspberry, orange zest and ground pepper framed in racy, refreshing acidity.

89

20

Piedmont

Barbera

93,083

US

This supple, seductive and sublime white is tart with acidity and bolstered by supportive oak. Pear, quince and an underlying hint of apple blossom combine in a lovely and focused expression on the palate that feels at once classic and balanced.

92

38

California

Chardonnay

77,144

Italy

Dark extraction and concentrated fruit set the stage. The wine has soft touches of blackberry fruit and plump cherry that are inevitably followed by tight tannins and sharp acidity. This is an astringent, firm wine that should be paired with fatty foods.

88

60

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

40,536

US

What a delicious Zin this is. Sourced from the warm climates of Lodi and Amador County, it's ripe and fruity, offering waves of wild raspberries and cherries dusted with brown sugar, cocoa and pie spice. Great value in a lusty, versatile Zin.

89

11

California

Zinfandel

9,512

US

Saracina makes dazzling white wines, but this intense red is outstanding too. Dark fruits like blackberry mingle with bright raspberry in this hefty, substantial wine that's full bodied and handsomely tannic. It's dry, very textural in the mouth and concentrated well enough for a lingering finish.

92

30

California

Zinfandel

98,278

US

A blend of Merlot (62%), Cabernet Sauvignon (23%), Malbec (6%), Cabernet Franc (5%) and Petit Verdot, this wine opens with aromas of cocoa powder, spice, dark cherries, savory herbs and flowers, displaying pleasing complexities. The palate is full of exquisitely balanced red and black-fruit flavors that sail off into the distance on the finish.

91

38

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

19,041

US

Smells and tastes thin and stemmy, with watered down cherry and cola flavors. On the plus side, it's dry and silky.

84

14

California

Pinot Noir

94,359

US

Soft and fruity, this has ripe black-cherry and blackberry compote flavors, plus plenty of oak influence. Drink now.

85

19

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

89,466

US

The producer's highest-end bottling, this is tightly wound in fine-grained tannins with complex, diverse undertones of chocolate mocha, cherry-vanilla, black tea and garrigue. Layered and balanced, it sends gentle waves of black currant and cassis to the palate, a floral element lurking behind the proceedings. This well-made wine will cellar nicely, through 2032.

95

185

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

10,610

US

Blueberry pie, black plum, licorice and a touch of tobacco show on the inviting nose of this solid bottling from the Morgan Hill producer. The palate is very well integrated and delicious, with blackberry jam, vanilla cookies and strong espresso flavors, framed by sticky, prominent tannins.

91

28

California

Petite Sirah

77,865

France

Soft and ripe, this wine is all fruit and sweet acidity. There is a light yet generous mouthfeel, with its tannins following its open fruitiness.

85

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

3,957

US

This weirdly named wine is a blend of 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. It's a bit soft and melted in texture, like liquid licorice, with flavors of cherries, red currants, mocha, anise and smoky oak, and the finish is dry. Notable for the elegance and purity of its tannin structure.

90

105

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

2,069

US

A good Cab, dry and balanced, whose tannins are richly impressive and sweet. Shows a good tension between the oak and the ripe black currants. Easy to like, and should develop for a few years.

90

35

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

70,828

Germany

Subtle notes of crushed mineral and lime on the nose contrast the lush tangerine and orange flavors in this off-dry, concentrated wine. It's harmoniously sweet, balanced neatly by strikes of steel and acid that tighten the finish. Drink now through 2019.

89

13

Mosel

Riesling

41,154

US

While not as full-bodied and complex as the winery's Les Pionniers bottling, their Tradition is considerably less expensive. Like Pionniers, it's unoaked and bright with acidity, with savory citrus and tropical fruit, green grass, honey and spice flavors.

89

30

California

Sauvignon Blanc

45,012

France

Fulsome notes of ripe, juicy pear lead straight to a fluid, concentrated palate that holds a whole world of ripe pear flavors. This is still deep in its shell, ringing with primary fruit but burying many layers of spiced joy: think marzipan and gingerbread. This is one for laying down that will reward patient drinkers. The deep core of fruit, the concentration on the midpalate and the ultraclean finish all suggest a great future. Drink 2018–2028.

94

105

Alsace

Pinot Gris

43,529

France

This is seaside Provence rosé right down to the traditional shape of the bottle. It is fresh and bright, with berry fruits and lively acidity. Drink as an apéritif.

84

15

Provence

Rosé

35,880

US

Lots of tangy acidity in this Chard, and tannins too. It has a grainy, stubborn mouthfeel. Shows plenty of pineapple, orange, apricot and lime flavors, with sweet oak essence, but cant quite overcome that resistant tug. Drink now.

87

39

California

Chardonnay

83,310

Italy

Aromas of wild berry, graphite, dark cooking spice and grilled herb lead the nose. The concentrated palate shows dense black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice, clove, toast and a hint of espresso accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.

92

65

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

7,343

Italy

Fragrances recall wet leaves, underbrush, forest berries and baking spices with a touch of espresso. The palate reveals black cherry accented with black pepper and espresso alongside bracing, tongue-drying tannins. This is a big wine, but the fruit isn't quite rich enough to support the evident alcohol.

88

50

Tuscany

Sangiovese

86,613

US

Planted in 1979, the Wädenswil block brings raspberry, cherry and cola flavors together into a nicely textured wine with a wide streak of vanilla. Round and forward, it gently resolves into a balanced finish with light highlights of herb, nutmeg and coffee.

92

60

Oregon

Pinot Noir

38,337

France

From vineyards owned by the Gagey family, this wine is ripe, easy to drink and full of fruit. Its strawberry and red cherry flavors are lifted by acidity and grounded in balancing tannins. It is made to be drunk young and will be ready from late 2017.

87

38

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

49,936

US

Isolated as a single clone, this limited bottling comes across as sharp and grassy, with some sour plum fruit. The finish carries a hint of asparagus.

85

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

122,174

US

Lighter in color than the typical Cabernet from the state, this wine brings appealing notes of coffee, dusty chocolate and dark plum. The extraction is dialed back giving a very elegant feel to the fruit flavors and tannins, with vanilla lingering on the finish.

88

30

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

91,625

US

From a well-farmed site, this wine is invitingly floral in apple-blossom notes, followed by fully developed flavors of peach and meringue. Earthy and complete, it offers concentration and balance.

92

45

California

Chardonnay

82,892

Spain

The overriding character of this basic Rioja is raisiny, ripe berry fruit; it's on the nose, palate and finish. Alongside these notes are mild tannins, some rubbery weight and chunky friendliness.

85

14

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

35,156

US

A pretty good Pinot Noir, elegantly silky as it should be, with flavors of tart cherries, cola, red licorice and sandalwood. It's a bit too soft and sweet, but easy to drink.

86

22

California

Pinot Noir

86,180

US

Sultry black-cherry and berry flavors and ripe deeply integrated tannins are held upright by a strident backbone of acidity in this elegantly structured Cabernet Franc. Swathes of fresh peppery greens offset sweet spice and vanilla tones on the midpalate. It's an elegant, deeply textural wine that's lovely already but should only improve through at least 2025.

93

55

New York

Cabernet Franc

109,784

US

Herb, stem, green olive and floral aromas lead to generous fruit and savory flavors that carry though the finish. It shows a lot of finesse and a beautiful sense of balance.

92

65

Washington

Syrah

92,189

Italy

Made of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, this opens with plum and violet aromas. Mellow tannins frame a palate of red cherry and baking spice flavors. Enjoy soon.

87

16

Tuscany

Red Blend

67,209

Italy

Made with Sangiovese, this shows ripe berry and black pepper aromas with a whiff of tobacco leaf. The bright palate delivers a tight core of black cherry accented with mint, white pepper and a hint of cocoa. Pair this with barbecued meats and grilled vegetables.

90

20

Tuscany

Sangiovese

26,141

Spain

A fresh and lively style of Rioja, with red-fruit aromas leading straight to a no-issues palate full of ripe plum and cherry flavors. The wine is uncomplicated, smooth and even a little chocolaty.

89

30

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

24,768

US

Pungent earth opens this wine, the small-production label of Napa Valley geologist and worldwide soils expert Dr. Paul Skinner, who has named it appropriately to mark its literal roots. A strip of red berry and vanilla highlight the palate of this overall bright and balanced wine.

93

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

87,677

US

This 100% varietal wine offers aromas of coffee, green herbs, pencil lead and vanilla followed by silky cherry and dark chocolate flavors. There's plenty of appeal but the variety seems to get lost.

88

24

Oregon

Merlot

115,634

US

Despite the Columbia Valley label this is all Red Mountain, old-vine Merlot from the winery's estate vineyard. Raspberry, mocha, clove and spice aromas lead to supple, understated fruit flavors and an extended finish. It's a perfect example of what makes this variety special in Washington.

91

25

Washington

Merlot

94,800

Italy

Packaged with a grape cutting tied to the neck of the bottle, this generous wine shows aromas of ripe melon, apricot and tangerine skin. There's a fresh note of sweet honeysuckle on the close.

87

14

Veneto

Pinot Grigio

13,220

US

Substantial in dense red plum and black cherry, this dry, chewy wine will benefit from a decant or time in the glass. It furnishes a high-toned kick of acidity on the finish.

86

22

California

Merlot

102,129

US

Whiffs of cedar and baking spices lead to ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors in this well-balanced and easy to appreciate wine. The ample fruit flavors are hard to resist, and the supple, modestly tannic texture is just right.

90

32

California

Barbera

34,664

US

The grapes for this wine are grown at 1,500-foot elevation, from a site that provides more coolness than the appellation's valley floor, a data point that becomes relevant to the taste and aroma of this wine. Spice, leather and garrigue combine for a seamless, soft and ageable experience, the wine dark and brooding in blackberry and bacon, yet beautifully aromatic in fresh violet and lavender. Enjoy through 2020.

93

50

California

Syrah

69,383

US

There's a fresh, juicy sense of dark cherry and cranberry in this medium-bodied wine. A lurking forested, mushroomy earthiness hovers around it as well, the finish awash in rich, dark toasty oak accented by notes of chocolate.

88

50

California

Pinot Noir

36,773

Italy

This is a big, modern wine that delivers thick oak renderings stacked tall against smaller offerings of black fruit. Aromas of leather, spice and vanilla are dominant, and the wine is characterized by firm tannins. Drink after 2010.

86

60

Tuscany

Red Blend

96,101

US

Fresh green herbs and granite notes add a lean, angular elegance to the concentrated black-cherry flavor in this wine. It's bold in structure with penetrating tannins that linger on the finish.

87

25

New York

Cabernet Sauvignon

91,110

Germany

Whiffs of caramelized sugar and smoked nuts accent aromas of ripe, concentrated peaches and nectarines on this intensely juicy semi-sweet Riesling. It's fruitiness makes it unabashedly approachable, but it's stately in feel with bold mineral and smoky earth tones that linger on the finish.

91

20

Mosel

Riesling

15,527

France

Finely rounded wine, smoky wood and spice combining well with ripe yellow fruits. The acidity is rather underplayed, but all the other elements are well in place. The aftertaste shows more ripe fruit character.

89

30

Burgundy

Chardonnay

115,440

US

Fresh, primary red-cherry and raspberry flavors get a kick of cherry-cola spice and vanilla here. It's an approachably plummy, juicy red with soft, feathery tannins, but puckering cranberry acidity keeps it fresh. Drink now through 2020.

87

34

New York

Cabernet Franc

35,701

US

Beguiling aromas of honeysuckle, lime, peach and baking spices are followed by palate-coating stone-fruit flavors. It shows an impeccable sense of balance.

90

23

Washington

Viognier

59,691

US

Coming from the winery's estate vineyard in The Rocks District, this aromatic brooder shows notes of crushed flowers, wet stone, orange peel, brown stems and dark fruit, along with lightly smoked meat accents. The palate boasts generous fruit and savory flavors that linger on the finish.

92

60

Washington

Syrah

71,493

Italy

Here's a fragrant and delicate Chardonnay from the far north of Italy that delivers aromas of honeysuckle, passion fruit and almond skin. The wine has fresh appeal and zesty spice on the close that makes it a natural companion to fish and vegetable dishes.

87

20

Northeastern Italy

Chardonnay

125,099

France

Vines situated close to the fortified citadel of Blaye have produced this bright and shiny 2014. With its clear red-berry fruits, black currants and acidity, it is immediately attractive. The tannins, a great support to the fruit, promise some aging. Drink now, or, better yet, wait until 2018.

88

22

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

37,747

US

There's a slightly gamy, pleasantly rustic touch to the nose of this hearty bottling, with a broad and deep boysenberry base spiced up by dark cola, nutmeg and wet gravel aromas. The mouthfeel is very full and the tannic structure is tight, propping up flavors of dark mulberry, tree bark and more roasted game.

93

55

California

Pinot Noir

27,187

Italy

This excellent blend of Chardonnay and Friulano offers a rich and reassuring feel in the mouth that would stand up to creamy artichoke risotto or white meat. Its beautiful aromas include melon, pear, apricot and a touch of butterscotch.

90

41

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

43,432

France

This wine is smoky, ripe and packed with tannins. The fruit gives the wine weight although it is not yet fully developed. There is a toasty background to this rich wine with its juicy red-berry fruits and acidity. Drink from 2019.

89

55

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

46,669

US

Intended as a take on Rioja, this is noticeably volatile, dusty and loaded with chocolaty barrel flavors. Cocoa and raspberry are in the mix, but it's chocolate that runs away with the finish.

85

29

Oregon

Tempranillo

128,655

US

This wine is immediately appealing with vibrant aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, white peach and wet stone. It drinks off dry, with a fleshy feel and drawn-out fruit flavors that linger.

90

19

Washington

Riesling

54,174

US

This single-vineyard wine offers high-toned citrus, almond and vanilla bean flavors. Fresh and fruity, it's light bodied yet doesn't skimp on flavor or texture, finishing on a tart note of lemon pith.

90

24

California

Sauvignon Blanc

95,581

US

This Syrah, blended with 9% Cabernet, tastes of dark fruit, tobacco and leather. But there's an odd aroma lurking in the wine's background that's hard to pinpoint and not entirely pleasant.

84

16

California

Syrah

122,531

US

Tasted pre-release, this is clearly ready for prime time. It's both compact and generous, with a core of wild berries soaked in minerals. The words lucid and crystalline come to mind—rarely applied to a red wine, let alone Cab Franc.

90

30

Washington

Cabernet Franc

5,728

US

Plum clafouti and a marriage of cherry and clove provide a foundation above which lies a spicy mix of dried herb and cedar in this integrated, softly approachable wine of medium-build and length.

90

42

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

13,050

US

Cola spice dominates the nose of this thick, concentrated wine from the heart of Westside Road. Stemmy earth notes accompany its ripe red fruit, as toasted oak and vanilla flavors extend long into the finish.

90

85

California

Pinot Noir