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
9,798	US	Graphite, rose petals, vanilla and a strong yet not over-exuberant black cherry quality pump up the nose of this decadent bottling by Brian Loring. There's great tactile texture once sipped, with chalky tannins unveiling ripe cranberry, red cherry, clay, cinnamon and baking-spice elements.	93	50	California	Pinot Noir
34,453	US	Here's a full-bodied, dry, tannic Syrah that displays elegance and balance. The blackberry, currant, grilled meat bone, mocha and licorice flavors finish in a swirl of peppery spice. Could develop bottle complexities through 2010.	87	30	California	Syrah
10,877	US	This wine is dry, rich and a perfect representation of a modern Napa Cabernet. Shows intricate layers of black cherries, black and red currants, cassis and minerals, with the funky layer of bacon and olives that the winery's other 2010 Cabs display. Way too young to drink now. Should begin to open after 2018 and hold its own for another decade.	91	140	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
94,120	US	Made entirely from Chardonnay, it shows real delicacy and richness, with a mousse as smooth as fine satin. Flavorwise, it's enormously rich, suggesting oranges, limes, honey, vanilla, toast and the sweet, yeasty doughiness of a brioche pastry. Really gorgeous, a worthy followup to the fabulous 2005 La Rêve.	95	95	California	Sparkling Blend
92,795	US	Here's a clean, savory Merlot for drinking now at a fair price. It's dry, tannic and smooth in the mouth, with blackberry, blueberry and tobacco flavors, subtlely enhanced with oak.	87	14	California	Merlot
116,459	US	Moderately herbal and tannic, with tight cranberry and pomegranate fruit tucked inside the leaf and stem flavors. That said, this perfectly captures the terroir of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. If there is a classic Oregon style of Pinot, this would be it.	86	43	Oregon	Pinot Noir
45,017	US	This is a complex wine, jammy and funky in pomegranate and orange notes that are acid-driven but not lacking in fruit or spice components. Soft and silky on the palate, it conveys a twinge of sandalwood to round things out on the long finish.	94	38	California	Pinot Noir
28,526	France	This cuvée honors a sailor who, in 1919, docked his boat, La Favorite, at Blaye in the Gironde estuary and bought the property. It is still owned by the l'Amouller family. Juicy and fruity, this wine is immediately attractive and accessible. Red fruits, soft tannins and a bite of acidity all contribute to the ready-to-drink taste.	85	45	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
49,568	US	This Bordeaux blend is a complex and sappy red with plenty of raspberry, cherry and cassis fruit flavor, tangy acids and ripe tannins. Young and tart, it is structured for age, compact and quite young. The oak brings in hints of butter and caramel.	91	48	Washington	Red Blend
75,701	US	Waxy peach-, pineapple- and pear-scented, this fulsome and fresh white offers lively acidity within a complex, medium-bodied framework. From estate-grown fruit, it's a rarity from the appellation and well worth seeking out.	90	34	California	Pinot Gris
46,746	US	As pretty and polished as California Gewürztraminer gets. Shows fabulous Anderson Valley acidity and minerality undergirding varietal flavors of sweet Asian spices, pears, peaches, limes and honeysuckle flowers. With its dry finish, it's a rich accompaniment to Vietnamese or Thai food.	87	18	California	Gewürztraminer
68,346	Italy	Aromas of grilled porcini mushroom, scorched earth, dark spice and a whiff of crushed herb lead the nose. The brawny palate offers dried cherry, vanilla, prune and a hint of licorice alongside a backbone of bracing tannins. The heat of evident alcohol throws off the finish.	89	80	Tuscany	Sangiovese
73,645	US	A brassy color and generous fruit flavors define this rich, dry and sophisticated bubbly. It has vivid cherry and white peach flavors, a smooth effervescence, crisp acidity and a lingering finish.	89	26	California	Sparkling Blend
6,422	US	Oddly, Silver Lake's least expensive Merlot is its best. It's a solidly made, straight-ahead varietal wine, with a core of black olive and currant, stiff tannins and enough grip to hold up to hearty main meat dishes.	85	12	Washington	Merlot
38,619	US	An overly soft, alcoholic wine. It tastes like the blackberry and cola syrup that goes into soda, before the carbonation is added, and finishes prickly hot.	84	45	California	Petite Sirah
28,852	US	A very pretty pale salmon color, cherry and spice aromas are followed by light, tart, dry, mouthwatering fruit flavors. The concentration seems light but there's still much to enjoy.	86	12	Washington	Sangiovese
110,084	US	Sweet tannins and an extracted, concentrated sense of brambly blackberry make for a robust wine, puckering in weight and oak. Rustic, leathery overtones dominate the bouquet and finish.	84	95	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
15,018	US	The vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, and here it yields an aromatic wine, with inviting suggestions of buttery cherry pie. It also offers blueberries, a touch of light herb and a deliciously smooth mouthfeel.	91	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
49,990	France	This is deliciously crisp and steely, with an apple flavor and the weight of citrus and grapefruit. It has a minerally, chalky feel, and then the wine rounds out, with crisp fruit on the finish.	90	37	Burgundy	Chardonnay
69,571	US	The simple structure frames cherry, red currant and sandalwood flavors. At this price, though, it's a useful everyday wine.	84	15	California	Merlot
121,111	Spain	Apple skin and red-plum aromas are herb-infused and suggest tomato sauce and carrot juice. A full, almost sticky feeling palate deals plum, cherry and tomato flavors along with notes of oregano and tarragon. A finish with red-licorice flavors and tomato notes is the final salvo on this blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay.	84	15	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
15,891	US	Big-boned, this wine is juicy and herbal, a nice mixture of pipe tobacco and rustic, brawny blackberry and sage.	88	35	California	Zinfandel
26,304	US	Smooth, dry and tannic, but a little thin, this is not one for the cellar. Shows some nice blackberry, black currant and oak flavors, with marked Napa elegance and balance. Drink up.	87	32	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
109,204	Italy	Delicately scented, this offers yellow stone-fruit and citrus aromas. The bright, savory palate mirrors the nose, offering ripe yellow-peach, nectarine and golden apple flavors, while tangy acidity provides balance and freshness.	90	34	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
69,826	France	With its floral rose motif, the bottle is attractive in itself. The rosé inside comes to life with crisp red fruits and lively acidity. This wine has a real freshness with a tangy texture, spice and a perfumed aftertaste.	88	18	Provence	Rosé
122,456	US	Made from grapes sourced from an inland Mendocino County appellation, this is at first forceful, tannic and dusty, with strong red-berry and blueberry flavors. A tad decadent, it settles down nicely in the glass.	87	24	California	Zinfandel
91,044	Italy	This Amarone has nearly overripe aromas, with hints of nail varnish and raisin. The palate is better, offering spirit-soaked black cherry, black pepper and licorice notes. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate.	88	86	Veneto	Red Blend
111,974	Italy	Aromas of steeped cherries, ripe plums, scorched earth and a medley of cooking spices lead the nose on this round, rich wine. The lush palate doles out ripe black cherries, raspberry jam, licorice and a dash of black pepper while velvety tannins lend finesse.	93	65	Veneto	Red Blend
42,743	Germany	Layers of smoke, spice and lanolin cast a shadowy tone to summery peach and tangerine flavors on this semi-sweet Riesling. Nuances of mineral, spice and fruit build in intensity on the palate, augmented by brisk lemony acidity. Finishes long with a delicate lace of sweetness.	91	44	Mosel	Riesling
119,961	US	Plummy cherry and vanilla meet cedar and black pepper wrapped in toasted oak in this bold, full-bodied, ripe wine from Moon Vineyards. Aged for two years in all French oak, it shows a classic structure and firmness, with succulence that builds on the finish.	91	60	California	Merlot
103,785	Germany	A hint of honeysuckle perfume lends flair to this dry, easy-quaffing Riesling. It's fairly straightforward on the palate, with fresh apple and lemon flavors, but brisk and bright, with pineapple acidity and a swathe of fresh herbs on the finish.	87	18	Mosel	Riesling
9,510	US	Perhaps the greatest way to taste this legendary winery in an affordable way, this appellation-blend bottling shows baked bramble pie, dried chaparral scrub, licorice, roasted beef and allspice on the palate. The plump blackberry and black-cherry fruit is leveled by rocky minerality and clove spice, all boosted by long lasting acidity.	92	39	California	Pinot Noir
29,242	Spain	This shows the floral, red-fruit side of Priorato. Violet, berry and plum aromas are schisty and almost delicate. A restrained but tannic palate features cherry compote, cassis and mild toast flavors. On the finish, this mellows out and hums smoothly. Drink through 2020.	92	44	Catalonia	Red Blend
86,764	France	Ripe and juicy, this is a wine with structure and fine, dusty tannins that give it density. The red fruit is juicy, perfumed and has the freshness of the vintage, bright and forward. The underlying tannins are concentrated and will allow the wine to age. Drink from 2020.	92	80	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
120,141	US	A wine club selection, this pure Malbec is fragrant and streaked with well-defined layers of blackberry, dark chocolate and earth. There's a pleasing whiff of sandalwood and baking spice that carries through to the finish.	91	30	Washington	Malbec
53,489	France	Opens with a compelling nose offering a bready, yeasty and subtle deep strawberry quality. The solid performance continues on the palate, with full, lively flavors and a steady bead. Has a fine mousse and closes with impressive tart-sweet strawberry and plum flavors. Full and complex.	92	42	Champagne	Champagne Blend
100,987	US	Spicy purple fruits come up quickly, followed by flavors of leaf, earth and stem. Tannins are tight and slightly coarse, and it ends suddenly.	85	39	Oregon	Syrah
20,768	US	Tastes like orange juice with an extra hit of white sugar, sprinkled with cinnamon, vanilla and an oaky sweetness.	82	17	California	Chardonnay
94,125	France	This is taut and mineral, with hidden power. It's very closed at this stage. It's a wine with acidity and notes of green fruits and crisp apples, with just a touch of wood. This will age for many years.	95	70	Burgundy	Chardonnay
114,315	US	The nose and palate of this wine are quite mellow for the first few hours after opening but grow more compelling with time, so decanting is strongly recommended. Pepper, subtle blueberry, coffee and slate aromas lead into chocolate, black plum, charcoal and soy flavors on the palate.	88	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
48,254	France	A dry Gewürztraminer, more fruity than many, showing intense spice and pepper as well as sultana and pear flavors. It has concentration, a dense texture, and delicious perfumes.	90	40	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
95,348	US	This wine is half Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc (22% each), topped off by Petit Verdot. The aromas of fresh herbs, flowers and blue fruit are still wound up. The palate shows more tannic heft than this vineyard is often known for, needing some time in the cellar to soften. Best after 2020.	91	60	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
53,856	US	Touches of menthol and pine flavors set this wine apart from the crowd, dominating the fruit flavors from the aroma to the finish. It is medium to full bodied, tastes a little earthy and smoky, and is relatively lean in texture.	84	15	California	Zinfandel
4,906	Italy	Perfumed berry, rose petal and baking spice aromas waft out of the glass. Young and vibrant, this offers crunchy sour cherry, fresh raspberry, white pepper and chopped herb alongside tightly packed, polished tannins. It closes on a coffee note.	91	62	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
80,234	Spain	Passion fruit and citrus aromas are straightforward and a bit sharp. This feels lemony yet wan, with tangy, lean flavors of lemon-lime mixed with fresh green herbs. Notes of scallion and tarragon blend with lingering lime on the finish.	86	13	Northern Spain	Sauvignon Blanc
72,498	US	This wine is dry, with a hint of oaky vanilla and buttered toast. Rich orange, peach and honey flavors are brightened by a burst of citrusy acidity.	86	11	California	Chardonnay
56,432	US	Certainly a remarkable value, this brings concentrated flavors of ripe raspberry and cherry liqueur into a big, broad and deep midpalate. The exuberance and depth of fruit is astonishing, and the balancing acidity suggests that the wine will retain its freshness through 2020 and beyond. This is one to buy by the case.	91	18	Oregon	Pinot Noir
104,288	Portugal	Coming from the plateau above the river Douro, this wine has a cool edge with plenty of acidity. At the same time it is ripe with spice from 12 months of wood aging and full of black-currant fruitiness. Drink this wine now.	89	18	Douro	Portuguese Red
107,166	US	Crisp acidity combined with ripe fruit is pleasant here, but this blush is a tad heavy and lacking in delicacy. The color is dark, and the wine is rich with raspberry jam and spices.	86	24	California	Pinot Noir
118,213	Italy	Scents of green apple and sage float from the glass and carry over to the frothy palate of white peach. Vibrant acidity offsets the rich fruit flavors while a note of candied citrus backs up the finish.	88	20	Veneto	Glera
48,303	US	Although this Cab is very dry, it's a bit astringent, with hard, edgy tannins and blackberry fruit flavors that veer into raisins. At its best now, so drink up.	85	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
56,272	US	A Zin brimming with berry deliciousness, this is lushly fruit forward with a dusty coat and hints of cracked black pepper for good measure. It has a great, long, cocoa-kissed finish.	88	25	California	Zinfandel
42,895	France	Siaurac, at 153 acres, is the largest estate in Lalande de Pomerol. The 2007 shows the relative lightness of the vintage, but boosts it up with chocolate and dark plum flavors. The wine finishes freshly, but still with tight tannins.	89	31	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
50,971	US	This is full bodied, tannic and concentrated, in the way of Mount Veeder red wines. It's also sweet and high in alcohol, with jammy blackberry flavors.	85	50	California	Red Blend
65,908	US	Green apples and soft apple blossom scents mix with cut-grass aromas on this wine, which comes from rows near the entrance of the iconic estate. There is lots of apple-skin-driven grip on the palate, which also shows pears, more grass and a slight hint of passionfruit.	88	22	California	Sauvignon Blanc
118,739	US	Sourced from 35-year-old Wente clone vines, this offers bright apple with hints of peach. It's medium bodied and streaked with flavors of caramel and butterfinger candy.	88	45	Oregon	Chardonnay
104,660	US	Locked up garden herb and cherry aromas are followed by bountiful dark fruit flavors. It possesses a lovely sense of balance and appeal, with chewy tannins backing it all up.	91	40	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
69,437	Italy	Aromas suggest porcini mushroom, espresso and oak. The oak-driven palate offers up roasted coffee bean, vanilla, oak extract, coconut and vanilla alongside astringent wood tannins that leave the mouth feeling dried out. The lack of fruit richness gives it a raw quality.	87	69	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
29,005	France	Jammy fruits conflict with a firm tannic structure. This wine is not yet balanced and needs a lighter touch. Producer is Jean Paul Barre.	84	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
96,539	US	The Yiddish word zaftig describes this Merlot perfectly. It's fleshy, with a soft, fat mouthfeel framing ultraripe cherry pie filling, milk chocolate, anise and sandalwood flavors that finish jammy-sweet and spicy.	87	25	California	Merlot
36,387	US	This comes from a single vineyard—Folie Hill—and shows the pinpoint flavors that such wines can deliver. Cherries and milk chocolate, with light notes of dried herbs, sail across the palate. It's drinking well and needs no further cellaring.	88	34	Oregon	Pinot Noir
105,795	US	A generic red wine with 13% Petit Verdot and 10% Merlot, there's a thread of rich, ripe red fruit at the heart of this wine, which is medium bodied if not on the lean side, finishing simply. French, Hungarian and American oak did the aging.	84	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
91,031	US	At first a stiff, unyielding wine, this shows promising—though compact—dark fruits with a strong herbal streak. Fresh greens and other herbs move into a finish with barrel flavors of tar and espresso.	88	30	Washington	Merlot
58,012	France	This is a powerful wine with a strong presence of Cabernet Sauvignon to give structure as well as fruit. The wine has great acidity and a rich texture along with ripe plum and black-currant fruit. It comes from an 18th-century estate in the southern Médoc. Drink from 2022.	90	34	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
28,775	US	This luxurious wine from a rising star winery is saturated with ripe fruit flavors and accented with spices and dark chocolate, verging on sweetness. It's not an oak bomb, but has dark, melting blackberry and chocolate-covered cherry flavors supported by fine tannins and full body.	91	32	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
126,466	France	This is full and fruity with great swathes of smoky tannins. Structured and concentrated, it promises a good future. Strawberry and red-plum flavors are there, along with the darker tannic element. Drink from 2019.	93	55	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
64,993	US	Whiffs of toasted wood and cardamom lend a warm, spicy tone to concentrated black-fruit notes on this boldly tannic, structured Cab. Brisk acidity adds balance to fruit and body, highlighting delicate herb notes on the finish.	86	28	New York	Cabernet Sauvignon
115,423	US	There's an overwhelming sense of menthol to this bottling, with a minty character extending over the pomegranate of the nose. It's also prominent on the sip, with camphor masking the cranberry fruit.	87	25	California	Pinot Noir
88,369	US	This is a young yet lush and amazingly rich Pinot Noir. The raspberry and cherry fruit hardly could be riper. Yet the balance of sweet tannins and just-in-time acidity gives the wine good structure. Fine to drink now, and should age well for a couple of years.	90	72	California	Pinot Noir
59,132	US	This Tempranillo gives off intense aromatics of ripe berry pie and has a crisp, smoky finish. In between it's big and brawny, delicious and rustic around the edges. On second sip, the flavors are wrapped in vanilla-kissed oak.	85	22	California	Tempranillo
38,367	US	Golden hay in color, this clonal exploration imparts light-bodied peach, graham cracker and orange flavors, the latter showing prominently on the nose. Bright acidity keeps it youthfully refreshing, with both body and weight in balance.	90	48	California	Chardonnay
4,708	Argentina	Crisp almost scratchy aromas of herbal red fruits are a bit strained. This feels solid, with ample volume. Earthy flavors of tomato sauce, mixed spices, stewed plum and cassis finish long and herbal, with some grace.	87	22	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
121,439	US	Rich, thick and blended with 10% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, this dual-county red is high in ripeness and tannin, well representing the vintage in terms of enviable structure, as well. Leathery earth and juicy black currant are tempered by dried herb. Drink now through 2023.	90	65	California	Cabernet Franc
72,597	France	A wine that is showing signs of maturity, emphasizing the sweetness of the rich vintage. It offers juicy spice, firm but sweet tannins and flavors of licorice and dark chocolate. It is ready to drink.	89	31	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
116,426	US	There are lots of rich, satisfying orange, pear and vanilla flavors in this dryish bubbly. It's clean, vibrant in acidity and a touch rough. The blend is Pinot Blanc, Riesling and Muscat.	87	19	California	Sparkling Blend
85,386	US	Here's a Merlot-like Zinfandel, in terms of the silky mouthfeel, the elegance of the tannins, and the cherry and currant flavors that have a flowery, violet finish. But the black pepper, clove and nutmeg spices are all Zin. Drink this lovely wine now.	89	22	California	Zinfandel
34,306	US	This is a pretty good value for a Pinot Noir from one of California's better districts. The wine is dry and balanced, with fine acidity framing raspberry jam flavor.	85	14	California	Pinot Noir
67,491	US	Brambly berry flavors carry a streak of cola throughout this wine, 80% of which was whole-cluster fermented. The pleasant fruit is somewhat offset with chalky acids and drying tannins.	88	48	Oregon	Pinot Noir
57,868	Argentina	Jammy and mineral-smelling at the same time, this Malbec exhibits an ideal set of plum and berry aromas. The palate is full but juicy, fresh and alert. Raspberry, currant, toast and spice flavors finish elegant and long, with no break-up in the wine's totality. Drink through 2022.	93	135	Mendoza Province	Malbec
93,308	US	This is a light and fruity wine that's forward on the palate, with red berries and hints of orange peel. It leaves a tart, citrusy aftertaste.	86	19	Oregon	Pinot Noir
59,131	Spain	Moderately leafy and brambly smelling, this is supported by its berry aroma. It feels edgy and juicy, with tangy, herbal raspberry and plum flavors. The finish is quick and snappy, with a hint of tomato and lasting green flavor.	85	12	Catalonia	Red Blend
28,506	US	Aromas of green, leafy herbs, plummy blue fruit and woodspices are followed by moderate flavors that show a mix of fruit and barrel. It's a pleasingly varietal wine at the right price.	87	14	Washington	Malbec
36,510	US	A rare finding of this variety in California, this wine is golden-orange in color and offers resin-like sweetness that may not appeal to everybody.	83	25	California	Rosé
126,983	US	Blended from all five Bordeaux varieties, this wine has fine, strong flavors of blackberries, black currants and oak, and is dry. The texture, though, is a bit edgy, with jagged tannins and bitter hints of raisins and mint. Drink now.	86	40	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
30,791	US	Textured vanilla-cream and green apple appear initially in this wine, which offers plenty of weight and structure around a core of balanced acidity and fresh lemon zest. Cardamom and vanilla play at the edges alongside elements of savory brine and white flowers. The oak presence is subtle.	92	58	California	Chardonnay
33,311	US	High acidity and modest alcohol combine to make this dry wine crisp and elegant. It's not particularly rich, but has just enough pear and peach flavors to get by.	85	22	California	Chardonnay
49,761	Argentina	Focused berry aromas are cool and smell slightly rubbery. A medium-bodied, good-quality palate features generic but pleasant plum and berry flavors, while the finish holds steady, with a dash of spice and complexity.	87	12	Mendoza Province	Malbec
17,829	France	A blend of Grenache and Rolle, this easy-drinking rosé features peach and canteloupe aromas, simple ripe strawberry and grapefruit flavors and a fruit-driven finish.	86	20	Provence	Rosé
115,589	US	This is a new brand and a very good introductory Pinot Noir. In its light, silky mouthfeel and deep, complex flavors, it showcases its Russian River origins in a classic way. Offers up brilliantly ripe flavors of red currants, licorice, cola, gingerbread, mocha and spices, wrapped into a dry, balanced structure. Best now for its youthful charm.	93	48	California	Pinot Noir
49,889	Italy	Phiale (an unusual expression of oak-aged Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio) shows power, extraction and concentration in the form of toast, spice, cedar, bramble and blackberry. The mouthfeel is dense and long-lasting and the wine tastes very exotic with a touch of bitter almond on the close.	90	26	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
38,127	US	Lime and pink grapefruit flavors are etched with refreshing minerality, and the leesy, textural mouthfeel keeps this wine feeling light, despite alcohol over 14%. Drink now and over the next five years.	90	21	Oregon	Pinot Gris
115,323	France	A lovely, heady lift of lemon, peach and passion fruit dances on the nose. This rich sweet-fruited tropicality is played out fully on the medium-sweet palate where the passion fruit swirls tartly alongside sweet ripe generous peach. It is the passion-fruit aroma and tartness that gives this a real edge. This not only has sweetness but a real tropical thrill. It's a very concentrated, pure-fruited wine with lots of promise. Drink 2017–2027.	94	36	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
112,756	US	Lots of zippy acidity in this bone-dry Pinot Noir, a testament to the chilly vintage. If you can get past the tartness, you'll find a rich vein of wild cherry, cranberry and cola fruit flavor. Ready now.	87	45	California	Pinot Noir
110,626	US	There's a filigreed delicacy to this late-release 2012 Gewürztraminer, yet it's powerfully persistent, bursting with sweet, almost tropical fruit flavors. Zesty acidity and whispers of pollen and earth lend a savory complexity that's beguiling, sip after sip.	90	60	New York	Gewürztraminer
127,346	US	This is a generous, tightly wound vineyard-designate that tastes more full-figured than it lists in terms of alcohol, jammy in dark plum and cardamom. It finishes with a ripe robustness of dark cherry fruit flavor and hint of earth.	88	64	California	Pinot Noir
15,491	US	Aromas of cream and corn on the cob are followed by lively full-bodied fruit flavors with plenty of toasty accents. It offers an appealing sense of texture along with a lovely sense of balance.	90	30	Washington	Chardonnay
12,327	France	This is a fine entry-level rosé from this Provence classed-growth estate. It has fresh red fruits and a light texture that is rounded out with some concentration and almond flavors. Drink now.	88	40	Provence	Rosé
30,981	Spain	Borderline exotic on the nose, with aromas of black cherry, violet and a touch of earthy leather. The palate has some prickle and snap to it, but it settles into lively black plum and boysenberry. Finishes smooth, ripe and big, with medium length. The coupage is 80% Syrah and 20% Monastrell.	87	23	Catalonia	Syrah
97,515	US	Light and frothy in the glass, this beautifully perfumed dry sparkling is redolent of orange blossoms, apples and pears. A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, there's a delicious hint of buttery cashew nut and bitter almond amidst the floral, fresh apple and lemon flavors.	88	42	New York	Chardonnay
41,445	France	This wine is initially tight and austere. The red-cherry fruit will develop slowly and with bright acidity to sustain it. Drouhin vineyards are biodynamic; this blend comes from its own and partner vineyards. Drink from 2018.	86	32	Burgundy	Pinot Noir

9,798

US

Graphite, rose petals, vanilla and a strong yet not over-exuberant black cherry quality pump up the nose of this decadent bottling by Brian Loring. There's great tactile texture once sipped, with chalky tannins unveiling ripe cranberry, red cherry, clay, cinnamon and baking-spice elements.

93

50

California

Pinot Noir

34,453

US

Here's a full-bodied, dry, tannic Syrah that displays elegance and balance. The blackberry, currant, grilled meat bone, mocha and licorice flavors finish in a swirl of peppery spice. Could develop bottle complexities through 2010.

87

30

California

Syrah

10,877

US

This wine is dry, rich and a perfect representation of a modern Napa Cabernet. Shows intricate layers of black cherries, black and red currants, cassis and minerals, with the funky layer of bacon and olives that the winery's other 2010 Cabs display. Way too young to drink now. Should begin to open after 2018 and hold its own for another decade.

91

140

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

94,120

US

Made entirely from Chardonnay, it shows real delicacy and richness, with a mousse as smooth as fine satin. Flavorwise, it's enormously rich, suggesting oranges, limes, honey, vanilla, toast and the sweet, yeasty doughiness of a brioche pastry. Really gorgeous, a worthy followup to the fabulous 2005 La Rêve.

95

California

Sparkling Blend

92,795

US

Here's a clean, savory Merlot for drinking now at a fair price. It's dry, tannic and smooth in the mouth, with blackberry, blueberry and tobacco flavors, subtlely enhanced with oak.

87

14

California

Merlot

116,459

US

Moderately herbal and tannic, with tight cranberry and pomegranate fruit tucked inside the leaf and stem flavors. That said, this perfectly captures the terroir of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. If there is a classic Oregon style of Pinot, this would be it.

86

43

Oregon

Pinot Noir

45,017

US

This is a complex wine, jammy and funky in pomegranate and orange notes that are acid-driven but not lacking in fruit or spice components. Soft and silky on the palate, it conveys a twinge of sandalwood to round things out on the long finish.

94

38

California

Pinot Noir

28,526

France

This cuvée honors a sailor who, in 1919, docked his boat, La Favorite, at Blaye in the Gironde estuary and bought the property. It is still owned by the l'Amouller family. Juicy and fruity, this wine is immediately attractive and accessible. Red fruits, soft tannins and a bite of acidity all contribute to the ready-to-drink taste.

85

45

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

49,568

US

This Bordeaux blend is a complex and sappy red with plenty of raspberry, cherry and cassis fruit flavor, tangy acids and ripe tannins. Young and tart, it is structured for age, compact and quite young. The oak brings in hints of butter and caramel.

91

48

Washington

Red Blend

75,701

US

Waxy peach-, pineapple- and pear-scented, this fulsome and fresh white offers lively acidity within a complex, medium-bodied framework. From estate-grown fruit, it's a rarity from the appellation and well worth seeking out.

90

34

California

Pinot Gris

46,746

US

As pretty and polished as California Gewürztraminer gets. Shows fabulous Anderson Valley acidity and minerality undergirding varietal flavors of sweet Asian spices, pears, peaches, limes and honeysuckle flowers. With its dry finish, it's a rich accompaniment to Vietnamese or Thai food.

87

18

California

Gewürztraminer

68,346

Italy

Aromas of grilled porcini mushroom, scorched earth, dark spice and a whiff of crushed herb lead the nose. The brawny palate offers dried cherry, vanilla, prune and a hint of licorice alongside a backbone of bracing tannins. The heat of evident alcohol throws off the finish.

89

80

Tuscany

Sangiovese

73,645

US

A brassy color and generous fruit flavors define this rich, dry and sophisticated bubbly. It has vivid cherry and white peach flavors, a smooth effervescence, crisp acidity and a lingering finish.

89

26

California

Sparkling Blend

6,422

US

Oddly, Silver Lake's least expensive Merlot is its best. It's a solidly made, straight-ahead varietal wine, with a core of black olive and currant, stiff tannins and enough grip to hold up to hearty main meat dishes.

85

12

Washington

Merlot

38,619

US

An overly soft, alcoholic wine. It tastes like the blackberry and cola syrup that goes into soda, before the carbonation is added, and finishes prickly hot.

84

45

California

Petite Sirah

28,852

US

A very pretty pale salmon color, cherry and spice aromas are followed by light, tart, dry, mouthwatering fruit flavors. The concentration seems light but there's still much to enjoy.

86

12

Washington

Sangiovese

110,084

US

Sweet tannins and an extracted, concentrated sense of brambly blackberry make for a robust wine, puckering in weight and oak. Rustic, leathery overtones dominate the bouquet and finish.

84

95

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

15,018

US

The vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, and here it yields an aromatic wine, with inviting suggestions of buttery cherry pie. It also offers blueberries, a touch of light herb and a deliciously smooth mouthfeel.

91

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

49,990

France

This is deliciously crisp and steely, with an apple flavor and the weight of citrus and grapefruit. It has a minerally, chalky feel, and then the wine rounds out, with crisp fruit on the finish.

90

37

Burgundy

Chardonnay

69,571

US

The simple structure frames cherry, red currant and sandalwood flavors. At this price, though, it's a useful everyday wine.

84

15

California

Merlot

121,111

Spain

Apple skin and red-plum aromas are herb-infused and suggest tomato sauce and carrot juice. A full, almost sticky feeling palate deals plum, cherry and tomato flavors along with notes of oregano and tarragon. A finish with red-licorice flavors and tomato notes is the final salvo on this blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay.

84

15

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

15,891

US

Big-boned, this wine is juicy and herbal, a nice mixture of pipe tobacco and rustic, brawny blackberry and sage.

88

35

California

Zinfandel

26,304

US

Smooth, dry and tannic, but a little thin, this is not one for the cellar. Shows some nice blackberry, black currant and oak flavors, with marked Napa elegance and balance. Drink up.

87

32

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

109,204

Italy

Delicately scented, this offers yellow stone-fruit and citrus aromas. The bright, savory palate mirrors the nose, offering ripe yellow-peach, nectarine and golden apple flavors, while tangy acidity provides balance and freshness.

90

34

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

69,826

France

With its floral rose motif, the bottle is attractive in itself. The rosé inside comes to life with crisp red fruits and lively acidity. This wine has a real freshness with a tangy texture, spice and a perfumed aftertaste.

88

18

Provence

Rosé

122,456

US

Made from grapes sourced from an inland Mendocino County appellation, this is at first forceful, tannic and dusty, with strong red-berry and blueberry flavors. A tad decadent, it settles down nicely in the glass.

87

24

California

Zinfandel

91,044

Italy

This Amarone has nearly overripe aromas, with hints of nail varnish and raisin. The palate is better, offering spirit-soaked black cherry, black pepper and licorice notes. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate.

88

86

Veneto

Red Blend

111,974

Italy

Aromas of steeped cherries, ripe plums, scorched earth and a medley of cooking spices lead the nose on this round, rich wine. The lush palate doles out ripe black cherries, raspberry jam, licorice and a dash of black pepper while velvety tannins lend finesse.

93

65

Veneto

Red Blend

42,743

Germany

Layers of smoke, spice and lanolin cast a shadowy tone to summery peach and tangerine flavors on this semi-sweet Riesling. Nuances of mineral, spice and fruit build in intensity on the palate, augmented by brisk lemony acidity. Finishes long with a delicate lace of sweetness.

91

44

Mosel

Riesling

119,961

US

Plummy cherry and vanilla meet cedar and black pepper wrapped in toasted oak in this bold, full-bodied, ripe wine from Moon Vineyards. Aged for two years in all French oak, it shows a classic structure and firmness, with succulence that builds on the finish.

91

60

California

Merlot

103,785

Germany

A hint of honeysuckle perfume lends flair to this dry, easy-quaffing Riesling. It's fairly straightforward on the palate, with fresh apple and lemon flavors, but brisk and bright, with pineapple acidity and a swathe of fresh herbs on the finish.

87

18

Mosel

Riesling

9,510

US

Perhaps the greatest way to taste this legendary winery in an affordable way, this appellation-blend bottling shows baked bramble pie, dried chaparral scrub, licorice, roasted beef and allspice on the palate. The plump blackberry and black-cherry fruit is leveled by rocky minerality and clove spice, all boosted by long lasting acidity.

92

39

California

Pinot Noir

29,242

Spain

This shows the floral, red-fruit side of Priorato. Violet, berry and plum aromas are schisty and almost delicate. A restrained but tannic palate features cherry compote, cassis and mild toast flavors. On the finish, this mellows out and hums smoothly. Drink through 2020.

92

44

Catalonia

Red Blend

86,764

France

Ripe and juicy, this is a wine with structure and fine, dusty tannins that give it density. The red fruit is juicy, perfumed and has the freshness of the vintage, bright and forward. The underlying tannins are concentrated and will allow the wine to age. Drink from 2020.

92

80

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

120,141

US

A wine club selection, this pure Malbec is fragrant and streaked with well-defined layers of blackberry, dark chocolate and earth. There's a pleasing whiff of sandalwood and baking spice that carries through to the finish.

91

30

Washington

Malbec

53,489

France

Opens with a compelling nose offering a bready, yeasty and subtle deep strawberry quality. The solid performance continues on the palate, with full, lively flavors and a steady bead. Has a fine mousse and closes with impressive tart-sweet strawberry and plum flavors. Full and complex.

92

42

Champagne

Champagne Blend

100,987

US

Spicy purple fruits come up quickly, followed by flavors of leaf, earth and stem. Tannins are tight and slightly coarse, and it ends suddenly.

85

39

Oregon

Syrah

20,768

US

Tastes like orange juice with an extra hit of white sugar, sprinkled with cinnamon, vanilla and an oaky sweetness.

82

17

California

Chardonnay

94,125

France

This is taut and mineral, with hidden power. It's very closed at this stage. It's a wine with acidity and notes of green fruits and crisp apples, with just a touch of wood. This will age for many years.

95

70

Burgundy

Chardonnay

114,315

US

The nose and palate of this wine are quite mellow for the first few hours after opening but grow more compelling with time, so decanting is strongly recommended. Pepper, subtle blueberry, coffee and slate aromas lead into chocolate, black plum, charcoal and soy flavors on the palate.

88

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

48,254

France

A dry Gewürztraminer, more fruity than many, showing intense spice and pepper as well as sultana and pear flavors. It has concentration, a dense texture, and delicious perfumes.

90

40

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

95,348

US

This wine is half Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc (22% each), topped off by Petit Verdot. The aromas of fresh herbs, flowers and blue fruit are still wound up. The palate shows more tannic heft than this vineyard is often known for, needing some time in the cellar to soften. Best after 2020.

91

60

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

53,856

US

Touches of menthol and pine flavors set this wine apart from the crowd, dominating the fruit flavors from the aroma to the finish. It is medium to full bodied, tastes a little earthy and smoky, and is relatively lean in texture.

84

15

California

Zinfandel

4,906

Italy

Perfumed berry, rose petal and baking spice aromas waft out of the glass. Young and vibrant, this offers crunchy sour cherry, fresh raspberry, white pepper and chopped herb alongside tightly packed, polished tannins. It closes on a coffee note.

91

62

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

80,234

Spain

Passion fruit and citrus aromas are straightforward and a bit sharp. This feels lemony yet wan, with tangy, lean flavors of lemon-lime mixed with fresh green herbs. Notes of scallion and tarragon blend with lingering lime on the finish.

86

13

Northern Spain

Sauvignon Blanc

72,498

US

This wine is dry, with a hint of oaky vanilla and buttered toast. Rich orange, peach and honey flavors are brightened by a burst of citrusy acidity.

86

11

California

Chardonnay

56,432

US

Certainly a remarkable value, this brings concentrated flavors of ripe raspberry and cherry liqueur into a big, broad and deep midpalate. The exuberance and depth of fruit is astonishing, and the balancing acidity suggests that the wine will retain its freshness through 2020 and beyond. This is one to buy by the case.

91

18

Oregon

Pinot Noir

104,288

Portugal

Coming from the plateau above the river Douro, this wine has a cool edge with plenty of acidity. At the same time it is ripe with spice from 12 months of wood aging and full of black-currant fruitiness. Drink this wine now.

89

18

Douro

Portuguese Red

107,166

US

Crisp acidity combined with ripe fruit is pleasant here, but this blush is a tad heavy and lacking in delicacy. The color is dark, and the wine is rich with raspberry jam and spices.

86

24

California

Pinot Noir

118,213

Italy

Scents of green apple and sage float from the glass and carry over to the frothy palate of white peach. Vibrant acidity offsets the rich fruit flavors while a note of candied citrus backs up the finish.

88

20

Veneto

Glera

48,303

US

Although this Cab is very dry, it's a bit astringent, with hard, edgy tannins and blackberry fruit flavors that veer into raisins. At its best now, so drink up.

85

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

56,272

US

A Zin brimming with berry deliciousness, this is lushly fruit forward with a dusty coat and hints of cracked black pepper for good measure. It has a great, long, cocoa-kissed finish.

88

25

California

Zinfandel

42,895

France

Siaurac, at 153 acres, is the largest estate in Lalande de Pomerol. The 2007 shows the relative lightness of the vintage, but boosts it up with chocolate and dark plum flavors. The wine finishes freshly, but still with tight tannins.

89

31

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

50,971

US

This is full bodied, tannic and concentrated, in the way of Mount Veeder red wines. It's also sweet and high in alcohol, with jammy blackberry flavors.

85

50

California

Red Blend

65,908

US

Green apples and soft apple blossom scents mix with cut-grass aromas on this wine, which comes from rows near the entrance of the iconic estate. There is lots of apple-skin-driven grip on the palate, which also shows pears, more grass and a slight hint of passionfruit.

88

22

California

Sauvignon Blanc

118,739

US

Sourced from 35-year-old Wente clone vines, this offers bright apple with hints of peach. It's medium bodied and streaked with flavors of caramel and butterfinger candy.

88

45

Oregon

Chardonnay

104,660

US

Locked up garden herb and cherry aromas are followed by bountiful dark fruit flavors. It possesses a lovely sense of balance and appeal, with chewy tannins backing it all up.

91

40

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

69,437

Italy

Aromas suggest porcini mushroom, espresso and oak. The oak-driven palate offers up roasted coffee bean, vanilla, oak extract, coconut and vanilla alongside astringent wood tannins that leave the mouth feeling dried out. The lack of fruit richness gives it a raw quality.

87

69

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

29,005

France

Jammy fruits conflict with a firm tannic structure. This wine is not yet balanced and needs a lighter touch. Producer is Jean Paul Barre.

84

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

96,539

US

The Yiddish word zaftig describes this Merlot perfectly. It's fleshy, with a soft, fat mouthfeel framing ultraripe cherry pie filling, milk chocolate, anise and sandalwood flavors that finish jammy-sweet and spicy.

87

25

California

Merlot

36,387

US

This comes from a single vineyard—Folie Hill—and shows the pinpoint flavors that such wines can deliver. Cherries and milk chocolate, with light notes of dried herbs, sail across the palate. It's drinking well and needs no further cellaring.

88

34

Oregon

Pinot Noir

105,795

US

A generic red wine with 13% Petit Verdot and 10% Merlot, there's a thread of rich, ripe red fruit at the heart of this wine, which is medium bodied if not on the lean side, finishing simply. French, Hungarian and American oak did the aging.

84

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

91,031

US

At first a stiff, unyielding wine, this shows promising—though compact—dark fruits with a strong herbal streak. Fresh greens and other herbs move into a finish with barrel flavors of tar and espresso.

88

30

Washington

Merlot

58,012

France

This is a powerful wine with a strong presence of Cabernet Sauvignon to give structure as well as fruit. The wine has great acidity and a rich texture along with ripe plum and black-currant fruit. It comes from an 18th-century estate in the southern Médoc. Drink from 2022.

90

34

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

28,775

US

This luxurious wine from a rising star winery is saturated with ripe fruit flavors and accented with spices and dark chocolate, verging on sweetness. It's not an oak bomb, but has dark, melting blackberry and chocolate-covered cherry flavors supported by fine tannins and full body.

91

32

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

126,466

France

This is full and fruity with great swathes of smoky tannins. Structured and concentrated, it promises a good future. Strawberry and red-plum flavors are there, along with the darker tannic element. Drink from 2019.

93

55

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

64,993

US

Whiffs of toasted wood and cardamom lend a warm, spicy tone to concentrated black-fruit notes on this boldly tannic, structured Cab. Brisk acidity adds balance to fruit and body, highlighting delicate herb notes on the finish.

86

28

New York

Cabernet Sauvignon

115,423

US

There's an overwhelming sense of menthol to this bottling, with a minty character extending over the pomegranate of the nose. It's also prominent on the sip, with camphor masking the cranberry fruit.

87

25

California

Pinot Noir

88,369

US

This is a young yet lush and amazingly rich Pinot Noir. The raspberry and cherry fruit hardly could be riper. Yet the balance of sweet tannins and just-in-time acidity gives the wine good structure. Fine to drink now, and should age well for a couple of years.

90

72

California

Pinot Noir

59,132

US

This Tempranillo gives off intense aromatics of ripe berry pie and has a crisp, smoky finish. In between it's big and brawny, delicious and rustic around the edges. On second sip, the flavors are wrapped in vanilla-kissed oak.

85

22

California

Tempranillo

38,367

US

Golden hay in color, this clonal exploration imparts light-bodied peach, graham cracker and orange flavors, the latter showing prominently on the nose. Bright acidity keeps it youthfully refreshing, with both body and weight in balance.

90

48

California

Chardonnay

4,708

Argentina

Crisp almost scratchy aromas of herbal red fruits are a bit strained. This feels solid, with ample volume. Earthy flavors of tomato sauce, mixed spices, stewed plum and cassis finish long and herbal, with some grace.

87

22

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

121,439

US

Rich, thick and blended with 10% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, this dual-county red is high in ripeness and tannin, well representing the vintage in terms of enviable structure, as well. Leathery earth and juicy black currant are tempered by dried herb. Drink now through 2023.

90

65

California

Cabernet Franc

72,597

France

A wine that is showing signs of maturity, emphasizing the sweetness of the rich vintage. It offers juicy spice, firm but sweet tannins and flavors of licorice and dark chocolate. It is ready to drink.

89

31

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

116,426

US

There are lots of rich, satisfying orange, pear and vanilla flavors in this dryish bubbly. It's clean, vibrant in acidity and a touch rough. The blend is Pinot Blanc, Riesling and Muscat.

87

19

California

Sparkling Blend

85,386

US

Here's a Merlot-like Zinfandel, in terms of the silky mouthfeel, the elegance of the tannins, and the cherry and currant flavors that have a flowery, violet finish. But the black pepper, clove and nutmeg spices are all Zin. Drink this lovely wine now.

89

22

California

Zinfandel

34,306

US

This is a pretty good value for a Pinot Noir from one of California's better districts. The wine is dry and balanced, with fine acidity framing raspberry jam flavor.

85

14

California

Pinot Noir

67,491

US

Brambly berry flavors carry a streak of cola throughout this wine, 80% of which was whole-cluster fermented. The pleasant fruit is somewhat offset with chalky acids and drying tannins.

88

48

Oregon

Pinot Noir

57,868

Argentina

Jammy and mineral-smelling at the same time, this Malbec exhibits an ideal set of plum and berry aromas. The palate is full but juicy, fresh and alert. Raspberry, currant, toast and spice flavors finish elegant and long, with no break-up in the wine's totality. Drink through 2022.

93

135

Mendoza Province

Malbec

93,308

US

This is a light and fruity wine that's forward on the palate, with red berries and hints of orange peel. It leaves a tart, citrusy aftertaste.

86

19

Oregon

Pinot Noir

59,131

Spain

Moderately leafy and brambly smelling, this is supported by its berry aroma. It feels edgy and juicy, with tangy, herbal raspberry and plum flavors. The finish is quick and snappy, with a hint of tomato and lasting green flavor.

85

12

Catalonia

Red Blend

28,506

US

Aromas of green, leafy herbs, plummy blue fruit and woodspices are followed by moderate flavors that show a mix of fruit and barrel. It's a pleasingly varietal wine at the right price.

87

14

Washington

Malbec

36,510

US

A rare finding of this variety in California, this wine is golden-orange in color and offers resin-like sweetness that may not appeal to everybody.

83

25

California

Rosé

126,983

US

Blended from all five Bordeaux varieties, this wine has fine, strong flavors of blackberries, black currants and oak, and is dry. The texture, though, is a bit edgy, with jagged tannins and bitter hints of raisins and mint. Drink now.

86

40

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

30,791

US

Textured vanilla-cream and green apple appear initially in this wine, which offers plenty of weight and structure around a core of balanced acidity and fresh lemon zest. Cardamom and vanilla play at the edges alongside elements of savory brine and white flowers. The oak presence is subtle.

92

58

California

Chardonnay

33,311

US

High acidity and modest alcohol combine to make this dry wine crisp and elegant. It's not particularly rich, but has just enough pear and peach flavors to get by.

85

22

California

Chardonnay

49,761

Argentina

Focused berry aromas are cool and smell slightly rubbery. A medium-bodied, good-quality palate features generic but pleasant plum and berry flavors, while the finish holds steady, with a dash of spice and complexity.

87

12

Mendoza Province

Malbec

17,829

France

A blend of Grenache and Rolle, this easy-drinking rosé features peach and canteloupe aromas, simple ripe strawberry and grapefruit flavors and a fruit-driven finish.

86

20

Provence

Rosé

115,589

US

This is a new brand and a very good introductory Pinot Noir. In its light, silky mouthfeel and deep, complex flavors, it showcases its Russian River origins in a classic way. Offers up brilliantly ripe flavors of red currants, licorice, cola, gingerbread, mocha and spices, wrapped into a dry, balanced structure. Best now for its youthful charm.

93

48

California

Pinot Noir

49,889

Italy

Phiale (an unusual expression of oak-aged Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio) shows power, extraction and concentration in the form of toast, spice, cedar, bramble and blackberry. The mouthfeel is dense and long-lasting and the wine tastes very exotic with a touch of bitter almond on the close.

90

26

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

38,127

US

Lime and pink grapefruit flavors are etched with refreshing minerality, and the leesy, textural mouthfeel keeps this wine feeling light, despite alcohol over 14%. Drink now and over the next five years.

90

21

Oregon

Pinot Gris

115,323

France

A lovely, heady lift of lemon, peach and passion fruit dances on the nose. This rich sweet-fruited tropicality is played out fully on the medium-sweet palate where the passion fruit swirls tartly alongside sweet ripe generous peach. It is the passion-fruit aroma and tartness that gives this a real edge. This not only has sweetness but a real tropical thrill. It's a very concentrated, pure-fruited wine with lots of promise. Drink 2017–2027.

94

36

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

112,756

US

Lots of zippy acidity in this bone-dry Pinot Noir, a testament to the chilly vintage. If you can get past the tartness, you'll find a rich vein of wild cherry, cranberry and cola fruit flavor. Ready now.

87

45

California

Pinot Noir

110,626

US

There's a filigreed delicacy to this late-release 2012 Gewürztraminer, yet it's powerfully persistent, bursting with sweet, almost tropical fruit flavors. Zesty acidity and whispers of pollen and earth lend a savory complexity that's beguiling, sip after sip.

90

60

New York

Gewürztraminer

127,346

US

This is a generous, tightly wound vineyard-designate that tastes more full-figured than it lists in terms of alcohol, jammy in dark plum and cardamom. It finishes with a ripe robustness of dark cherry fruit flavor and hint of earth.

88

64

California

Pinot Noir

15,491

US

Aromas of cream and corn on the cob are followed by lively full-bodied fruit flavors with plenty of toasty accents. It offers an appealing sense of texture along with a lovely sense of balance.

90

30

Washington

Chardonnay

12,327

France

This is a fine entry-level rosé from this Provence classed-growth estate. It has fresh red fruits and a light texture that is rounded out with some concentration and almond flavors. Drink now.

88

40

Provence

Rosé

30,981

Spain

Borderline exotic on the nose, with aromas of black cherry, violet and a touch of earthy leather. The palate has some prickle and snap to it, but it settles into lively black plum and boysenberry. Finishes smooth, ripe and big, with medium length. The coupage is 80% Syrah and 20% Monastrell.

87

23

Catalonia

Syrah

97,515

US

Light and frothy in the glass, this beautifully perfumed dry sparkling is redolent of orange blossoms, apples and pears. A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, there's a delicious hint of buttery cashew nut and bitter almond amidst the floral, fresh apple and lemon flavors.

88

42

New York

Chardonnay

41,445

France

This wine is initially tight and austere. The red-cherry fruit will develop slowly and with bright acidity to sustain it. Drouhin vineyards are biodynamic; this blend comes from its own and partner vineyards. Drink from 2018.

86

32

Burgundy

Pinot Noir