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
48,210	US	Co-fermented with a small quantity of Viognier, this Syrah was aged in 100% new oak. It's flashy and completely satisfying to drink now. Starts a little soft and dry, then explodes midpalate into a burst of cherry and raspberry fruit, with creamy, caramelized notes. The finish is long-lasting and elegant.	93	50	California	Syrah
128,835	US	A blend of Syrah (70%), Grenache (25%) and Mourvèdre, this tantalizing wine offers a near endless list of aromatic descriptors, from white pepper to smoked meat, currant, mineral, licorice, coffee and dried herbs, seeming to evolve with each swirl. The palate is layered and rich with plum, pomegranate and lingering dark fruit flavors. It drinks best at a cool 62 degrees.	92	40	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
65,834	US	Quite light in the glass, this bottling still shows a vast array of tropical-leaning aromas, from jasmine and honeysuckle to ripe Gala apples, orange juice and key lime pie. Crisp stonefruit shows on the sip, as do more powerful white flowers, like tuberose.	86	28	California	Viognier
47,429	US	This expresses the greatness of its vintage and vineyard, offering wave after wave of raspberry and cherry pie flavors, plus notes of red currant, sweet licorice, spicy Dr. Pepper and smoky sandalwood. There's also something exotically briary and wild that intrigues. Even more remarkable is the texture, an amalgam of acids and tannins that rivals any Pinot Noir ever produced in California. It should age for up to 20 years.	99	75	California	Pinot Noir
85,474	US	Richer scents of maple smoke and bacon fat integrate well into a sexy purple flower, blackberry and clove-laced black-cherry-syrup character on the nose of this wine, which includes 2% Viognier. A black-pepper-crusted beef quality shows once sipped alongside boysenberries, violets, lilacs, Sichuan peppercorn and even black tea.	92	55	California	Syrah
51,316	US	Right now this is a big, tough Cabernet. It's very dry and oaky, and the black and red cherry flavors have a jammy edge. Despite the apparent simplicity, you find yourself returning to it, a good sign that suggests complex ageability. Give it 4–6 years in a cool cellar.	90	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
97,026	US	This dry light-footed blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris offers zesty grapefruit and lemon flavors edged with white tea leaves. Balanced in alcohol, subtle and refreshing, it finishes on a clean, slightly mineral tone.	88	16	New York	White Blend
89,407	Argentina	Chunky, slightly rubbery aromas revolve around black fruits and oak. This is a dense, thick wine with blackberry, plum, fig and bitter chocolate flavors. The finish is dark and weighty in this meaty Malbec.	90	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
33,098	Italy	You'll find earthy aromas of used leather, game and a slight whiff of barnyard on this soulful red. The funky aromas follow over to the palate along with fleshy black cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and a note of salted game. The rounded tannins are rather forward for such a young Barolo. Drink 2019–2025.	88	50	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
75,080	US	Medium-bodied, this wine's ripe fruit characteristics offer dark plum and golden raisin flavors. It will serve most basic wine needs.	85	15	California	Merlot
90,710	France	This is a warm, creamy wine with layers of toast and yellow fruits. It has a ripe feel and a generous texture, with a mineral backbone keeps the wine in shape. Drink now.	92	38	Burgundy	Chardonnay
126,319	US	Pretty aromas of rose and lavender mark the entry of this full-bodied, concentrated wine characterized by pomegranate, cranberry and a lightness of cardamom. Lengthy and dense, it opens in the glass, its tannins softened, with a length of earthiness that lingers on the finish.	92	54	California	Pinot Noir
15,861	US	Lipstick cherry and vanilla provide a burst of red fruit succulence around a core of big oak and a leathery midpalate marked by dried sage. Drying tannins belabor the finish, before rediscovering its lovely, though bold, expression of fruit.	90	20	California	Merlot
70,696	Australia	After 26 months in French oak and additional time in bottle, this is a sumptuously silky Grenache. The complex aromas hint at roasted meat, vanilla and stewed plum, while the flavors follow suit, picking up mocha notes on the long, mouthwatering finish. Ready to drink.	90	80	South Australia	Grenache
5,385	Argentina	Creamy aromas of vanilla cookies and melon lead to a plump palate with just enough vital acidity to keep things fresh. Citrusy flavors lean toward clementines and grapefruit, while the finish is peachy but also pithy in flavor.	85	13	Mendoza Province	Pinot Grigio
21,778	US	Heavy and dull, this dry Zin has overripe flavors of raisins and prunes, and is quite tannic. Drink now.	82	34	California	Zinfandel
30,152	France	This is an attractive pink-colored wine, with soft crushed strawberry fruit flavors. The acidity is light, giving preference to the fruit and ripe flavor. The aftertaste veers on the sweet side, but it's well balanced.	87	60	Champagne	Champagne Blend
93,012	US	A light garnet color along with lightly earthy and spicy flavors fit this wine into the old school, where it offers nice balance, elegant texture and complex nuances of tea, cherry and raspberry. There is no heavy, overripe fruit or extreme oakiness to get in the way of pure enjoyment.	89	38	California	Pinot Noir
1,227	US	Marc Piro continued to hone his craft under Jim Clendenen at Au Bon Climat, and that expertise shows in this bottling, which combines Presqu'ile and Bien Nacido Vineyards to produce a wine that's both zesty in the underripe style yet full of fruit as well. Aromas of wild oregano, thyme, tapenade and red cherry lead into a palate full of tantalizing acidity, with tart Montmorency cherry, tangy tomato and fennel spice.	93	32	California	Pinot Noir
44,546	Italy	Aromas of white spring flowers, grapefruit and Bartlett pear lead the nose. The bright palate offers lime zest, green apple and a note of white peach alongside bright acidity and a foaming mousse.	87	16	Veneto	Glera
90,341	US	Shows the impeccable balance you expect from this master winemaker, even in this hot vintage, where supermaturity was a challenge. The wine is certainly ripe, offering a mouthful of blackberries, cherries and currants. But it never loses its elegant tannin-acid architecture. Beautiful now, and should develop through 2014.	93	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
791	US	Just one barrel was produced from the own-rooted vines planted almost 50 years ago. It's earthy and scented with a menthol/eucalyptus note, that carries on through. Cranberry flavor reflects the rather low alcohol, but there is no hint of unripeness or any vegetative character.	90	85	Oregon	Pinot Noir
91,218	US	A big, rich, fruity Cabernet. It's a little one-dimensional, but there's no denying that the blackberries, cherries and raspberries are delicious. Drink now.	86	22	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
30,554	US	The Stillwater Creek vineyard bottling of Novelty Hill Syrah shows a bit more concentration than its sibling in 2011, with whiffs of pepper, earth, soy and umami. There's a saline character as well, reflective of the mineral-rich soil, and a pleasant taste of toast in the tannins.	88	28	Washington	Syrah
16,385	France	This is a generous wine with fine potential. Its rich red fruits and acidity are contrasted with dense tannins and spice from the wood aging. It will be slow but sure to develop into a delicious wine. Drink from 2021.	92	79	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
93,847	US	This is a fruit-driven wine showing lots of apple and melon aromas, broad peach and apple flavors and a generous texture. It's very tasty and refreshing and has touch of sweetness.	87	10	California	Sauvignon Blanc
108,805	Italy	The 2005 vintage was a hot one, and this offers aromas of ripe fruit and savory spice, and the intensity is not overdone by any means. In fact, it shows elegance and restraint, with a thick, succulent quality to the firm tannins.	92	49	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
509	US	This would be a straightforward Bordeaux red blend if not for the 5% Petite Sirah within. Together, it's 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec as well, sourced from Howell Mountain and valley floor sites. Dusty and herbal, the wine is thick and sizably tannic, with dense black fruit, leather and coffee.	91	65	California	Red Blend
14,481	France	A bold pink color suggests the richness of this vanilla-flavored wine that misses out on a truly refreshing character. It is full and soft, with a touch of bitter acidity at the end.	84	14	Bordeaux	Rosé
62,477	US	With no time spent in oak, this bright, simple Sauvignon Blanc has pear, grapefruit and gooseberry notes and a quick finish.	86	14	California	Sauvignon Blanc
28,001	US	This is a soft, simple white marked by green olive and vanilla bean flavors that feel concentrated and full on the finish.	86	25	California	Chardonnay
5,752	US	There's a very savory, gamy element on the nose of this wine, which shows wild berries, woody shrubs, rusty iron and turned forest-floor aromas. The palate is punchy at first, with decent acidity and cranberry-plum-raspberry flavors, then clings to a pencil-lead core deeper into the sip. It offers quite a bit of complexity.	92	30	California	Pinot Noir
117,392	US	This Chardonnay, Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier blend is a good, all-purpose white wine but lacks focus.	85	14	Washington	White Blend
76,232	Spain	Cidery aromas vie with bready notes to give the bouquet complexity. This feels zesty, juicy and citric, with a lean, racy body. Apple cider, green herb, lime and scallion flavors finish with a lasting taste of lime.	88	18	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
87,643	US	A luxurious, tempting oak perfume continues through the flavors of this richly textured, spicy wine. Aromas are toasted and smoky while the flavors are ripe blackberries and dark chocolate.	90	21	California	Tempranillo
34,947	US	Big and bold, broad in texture and deep in ripe, chocolaty flavors, this wine is full bodied. Rich in mouthfeel, it's almost sweet, and deftly made to be appealing now despite very firm tannins. It will be outstanding in a pairing with big proteins.	91	45	California	Syrah
118,167	US	The color is a pale copper-pink, suggesting the wine's delicacy in the mouth. It's low in alcohol, bright in acidity and subtle in apricot, orange rind and white pepper flavors.	89	32	California	Rosé
69,945	France	Dominated by grapefruit and pineapple flavors, this is very fresh and herbaceous. The wine is crisp and clean, with acidity at the end. Drink over the next year.	86	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
32,876	Italy	Here's a standout Sangiovese-based super Tuscan with a very unique peppermint-like characteristic that helps to increase the wine's intensity and delicious overall effect. Beyond that layer of fresh mint are softer aromas of earth, white mineral, talc powder, pencil lead, cherry and spice. The wine has a strong mineral component.	92	120	Tuscany	Sangiovese
80,030	France	This is a bright wine—still a little closed but promising fine fruitiness for the future. With herbal acidity, lemon and grapefruit flavors and a zesty tang at the end, it will develop relatively quickly. Drink from 2020.	92	22	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
102,655	US	Young and precise, this balances flavors of wild raspberries against a mineral foundation. Suggestions of wet stone and a dash of brown spices come through, with lots of supporting acidity. As it fades, there's a lick of chocolate from aging in 29% new French oak.	90	105	Oregon	Pinot Noir
83,907	US	Weedy and vegetal despite some decent raspberry, cherry and spice flavors. Okay for a big party where nobody's fussy.	83	10	California	Zinfandel
96,388	US	While unusual for the variety, the herb, lemon and orange zest, berry, green pepper and asphalt aromas provide intrigue. The fruit flavors are plump but light, showing good length. This wine provides enjoyment, though Merlot wouldn't be a first guess.	88	20	Washington	Merlot
42,889	US	Brings a welcome restraint to Cabernet, offering a dry, somewhat tannic wine of great elegance. Easy to like for its balanced flavors of blackberries and black currants, with gentle influences of oak. Pretty good price for a wine of polish and sophistication.	89	19	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
68,977	US	The fruit pops on this wine, with notes of blackberry and blueberry pie. It pulls no punches with a full-throttled style. It's a bit one-note but hits that note hard.	91	80	Washington	Syrah
112,048	US	Dark and toasty, this wild yeast fermented wine spent 10 months in 10% new Oregon oak. Slightly roasted flavors combine coffee grounds, chunky cherry and cassis. It's a full-bodied full-flavored wine which favors power over finesse.	89	26	Oregon	Pinot Noir
49,808	France	The great dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend has given this wine both a fine structure and crisp swathes of black-currant fruit. It is a firm wine at this stage, although the fine fruitiness will become an important part of the taste. The estate is named after one of Napoleon's generals who became King of Sweden. Drink from 2021.	91	40	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
46,420	US	Mourvèdre (81%) makes up the majority of this blend with Grenache (12%) and Syrah filling it out. It leans into savory notes, with aromas of sage, dried herbs, white pepper and mineral. The flavors are plush and palate-coating, bringing a slightly tacky feel that softens over time. It will be best after 2019.	92	45	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
79,995	US	This is a simple North Coast Cabernet with herbal and green olive and pepper tones.	83	10	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
52,131	US	This is the biggest, ripest and most expensive of Von Strasser's new releases and also the least satisfying at the moment. It's explosive in blackberries, cherries, blueberries, mulberries, chocolate and cedar, and comes across as a bit direct and jammy. Could surprise after 5–6 years in the cellar.	90	125	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
109,547	US	V. Sattui has quietly been producing outstanding Cabernets, and here's another. The vineyard is on the Rutherford bench, arguably the tenderloin of the appellation. Made from 100% Cabernet, the wine is sumptuously rich and soft in tannins, with sour red-cherry candy, licorice, bacon and pepper spice flavors. Will age well for at least 10 years.	94	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
105,150	US	This is a classic, concentrated but elegant wine, from the wonderful black cherry and forest underbrush aromas to the ripe fruit flavors, full body and polished texture. Aging in 30% new Hungarian barrels gave a subtle spicy accent.	92	32	California	Pinot Noir
36,390	US	Chalky tannins and dried herb mark the entry of this wine, which stays varietal despite the addition of 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sage, peppercorn and high-toned cherry complete the picture, with well-integrated, generous tannins framing the overall picture, finishing in swirls of cinnamon and vanilla.	88	42	California	Cabernet Franc
47,060	Italy	A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Montepulciano, this opens with aromas of violet, toast and spiced plum. The ripe palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and espresso. It's balanced with round, hearty tannins.	88	18	Tuscany	Red Blend
21,196	Italy	Vanilla, baked cherry and coconut aromas lead the nose. Bright and tense, the palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, vanilla and clove flavors, bolstered by firm acidity and youthfully austere tannins that leave a grippy finish. It needs to unwind and soften.	89	42	Tuscany	Sangiovese
1,760	France	While this wine has a strong tannic structure, it also offers plenty of ripe fruit. Acidity is kept in its place, giving freshness allied to warm berries. Drink this attractive wine from 2016.	84	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
121,255	US	This is a lightly style wine but extremely vivacious and sexy, with cut red apple, mandarin orange skin, ripe nectarine and lightly honeyed Gravenstein apple on the nose. It's clean, crisp and focused on the palate, where lime zest, limestone and a touch of buttered pear in the midpalate makes for a complete and balanced sip.	93	55	California	Chardonnay
100,158	US	Aromas of wood spice, black licorice, graphite and blackberry are followed by cranberry and cherry flavors. It shows a fine sense of balance.	90	25	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
119,438	Germany	Earthy, smoky mineral tones extend from nose to finish here, accentuating flavors of fresh red apple, tangerine and lemon. The sharp, racy mouthfeel is softened by hints of honey and a long, salt and citrus finish.	91	43	Mosel	Riesling
92,709	Australia	Despite this wine's 16% alcohol, it does an excellent job carrying it. There's a superripe lift to the aromas of black cherry and a hint of sur-maturité in the notes of apricot preserves, but this is a big, lush, creamy-textured wine with a wonderfully rich mouthfeel and layers of fruit on the finish. Drink now–2012.	91	80	South Australia	Grenache
93,590	US	The aromas seem quite dried out, with notes of fruit leather, medicine cabinet and green herbs. The palate brings more of the same, seeming more advanced than its age might indicate.	87	34	Washington	Cabernet Franc
411	US	A nice Cabernet for this everyday price. Dry and smooth, it shows interesting flavors of black currants, plums, herbs and spice, with a touch of smoky oak.	85	12	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
80,459	France	Every Burgundy merchant seems to have a Clos de Vougeot. The Aegerter's version is relatively light, as much fruit as tannins even while it is young. Berry fruits comes forward, while the layer of tannin is in a supporting role. It's a solid wine, not one that has a long future. Drink from 2018.	91	369	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
29,853	US	Vanilla, cocoa, barrel spice and herb aromas are followed by creamy fruit and barrel flavors. The vanilla notes overwhelm the nose and palate, however, distracting from the fruit.	88	28	Washington	Malbec
125,808	US	Deeply colored in gold, this Chardonnay already is showing signs of premature aging. The pineapple and mango fruit is drying out, showing a nutty edge, as in cashews and macadamias. Oak sticks out a bit clumsily.	85	40	California	Chardonnay
78,698	US	This wine is aging out quickly and will not meet reserve-level expectations for most consumers. The fruit tastes a little cooked and the tannins have a strong stemmy character. Drink up.	83	15	Oregon	Pinot Noir
32,454	France	This is a firm wine with solid tannins as well as layers of juicy black currant and cherry fruits. Acidity and a good sense of structure are still developing, meaning the wine needs to age longer. Drink from 2018.	90	40	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
92,245	US	Lovely honeysuckle and apple blossoms lead into lush flavors of gooseberry jam, lemon curd and apple butter; the mind reels at the complexity. It's all in perfect balance, the fruit set against bracing acidity, the hint of sweetness rounding out the mouthfeel, and the whole flavor circus rolling merrily along through an extended finish.	93	24	Oregon	Riesling
9,264	US	Fiesta is the lightest, most fruit forward of the four different Tempranillos from Abacela. In a great year such as this, it's also substantial and authoritative, with deeply driven flavors of red and blueberry fruit, a whiff of oak and slightly grainy tannins. This wine clearly over-delivers for the price.	91	23	Oregon	Tempranillo
38,788	US	This wine is 40% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre with the balance Counoise. It's lighter in color, with aromas of plum, boysenberry, herbs, flowers and peppery spices. It's palate-coating with silky, sweet fruit flavors that linger.	89	28	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
29,542	US	The volatiles are quite amped on this wine. It makes it a struggle to get at the tart black cherry flavors.	84	34	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
120,636	US	Aged 22 months in French and American oak, this wine hails from a rolling hillside in the appellation and is 100% varietal. Subdued aromas give way to an expansive and full-bodied array of red currant, cranberry and black pepper, with a vibrant underpinning of minerality as well as tobacco and baking chocolate.	91	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
116,448	US	Marked by excessive heat from high alcohol, with a jalapeño pepper burn all the way through. If you can get past that, it's dry and smoothly tannic, with rich berrry, currant, cocoa and spice flavors.	86	39	California	Red Blend
55,413	US	This rosé is dry, crisp, tart and complex, offering raspberry, cherry, herb, white pepper and vanilla flavors.	87	20	California	Rosé
73,959	France	Although this wine has structure and acidity, it's lean, and the fruit seems to be missing. Spice and a smoky character give some pleasure. Drink from 2020.	85	19	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
32,242	France	Intense lemon and tangerine notes create a most inviting nose. The palate continues in full tangy mode: the aromatic zest of tangerine and ripe Amalfi lemon create a concentrated, uplifting and even cooling freshness. The body is slender but totally concentrated with a dynamic linear structure. Over time, riper notes of honeyed stone fruit appear despite the very dry style, but the chief charms are a marvel of citrus diversity. Drink now through 2035.	94	36	Alsace	Riesling
89,161	US	From the estate vines, this toasty wine will please those who love a soft and buttery style of Chardonnay. Buttered popcorn, toasted walnuts, soft and ripe tropical fruits all come into play; Bonair's definable house style.	89	20	Washington	Chardonnay
15,916	US	Herb, flower and exotic spice aromas lead to broad creamy-feeling fruit flavors that persist on the finish.	88	36	Washington	Malbec
95,244	France	Very young, fruity wine. The tannins are already soft and there is stalky black currant acidity that gives the wine a bright freshness. It has no wood and will develop fast.	83	14	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
104,272	US	This Cabernet Sauvignon-based ode to Pauillac improves immensely as it sits open for days, suggesting great ageability. Black currant, gravel, teriyaki and dark chocolate show on the nose, leading into a palate that is tightly wound with chalky tannins. Flavors of black fruit, charcoal, pencil shavings and coffee slowly emerge. Drink 2019–2033.	93	50	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
72,262	US	This is a chewy, generous and expansive vineyard-designated wine, dense and fulsome in savory cranberry, cardamom and streaks of black tea. Full bodied, its layers of texture are soft and velvety, and the finish lengthy in spice.	91	65	California	Pinot Noir
42,281	US	The aromas are up front, with barrel notes of char, vanilla, coconut and baking spice followed by cigar box. The wood really shows through on the palate as well, with the tannins bringing a strong sense of astringency.	86	40	Washington	Tempranillo
24,477	US	This kitchen-sink blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah shows squashed black plum, caramelized blueberries, mocha and a sweet cedar touch on the nose. Toasty oak flavors carry the palate, with vanilla, brown sugar, beef char, baked blueberries and a touch of Vietnamese coffee.	90	30	California	Red Blend
44,295	US	Made in tiny amounts from a single vineyard, this is an impressive layering of dark cherry, vanilla and black pepper, retrained in texture. Bulky tannins paint a portrait of mountain power as the grippy texture holds on tenaciously.	88	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
27,303	US	Winemaker Ross Cobb, formerly with Williams Selyem and Flowers, did his best, but this Pinot tastes acidic and labored. It has lean flavors of strawberries and raspberries and new French oak. The wine isn't showing well now, seemingly a victim of the harsh vintage. Its future is problematic.	88	85	California	Pinot Noir
97,817	US	Soft, hot in alcohol and sweet, this simple wine tastes like melted raspberry and cherry jam.	84	40	California	Zinfandel
10,008	France	This is an attractive, fast-maturing wine with soft tannins, ripe fruits and a juicy, perfumed acidity. It has considerable weight and concentration, along with firm red-plum and berry flavors. It's an elegant wine that should be drunk from 2017.	91	193	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
114,308	US	Ripe with cherry-berry juiciness, this is a value-priced Zin that's straightforward all around, with a bitter taste to the finish.	82	11	California	Zinfandel
69,586	US	It conveys tastes of buttered toast, honey and vanilla. The underlying fruit flavors are of oranges and mangoes.	84	23	California	Chardonnay
77,243	US	Baked black cherry and black plum meet with lots of crushed gravel and light fennel on the nose of this bottling that is all about fruit and earth, rather than herb and spice. Tart red plum and sour raspberry show upon the palate's gravelly texture, but darker red fruit awaits in the midpalate along with char and a touch of soy.	93	52	California	Pinot Noir
104,534	US	You'll want to give this young Cab some time in the cellar, because it's locked down in tannins. Buried underneath the astringency is a wealth of sweet black currants and savory anise and sandalwood. Try after 2011.	91	62	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
72,263	Italy	Enticing scents of wild flowers and white peach lead the nose, with a whiff of dried herbs. The creamy palate offers juicy apple, yellow pear and crushed minerals alongside zesty acidity and a frothy, elegant mousse. It's elegant and linear, with vibrant acidity that lifts up the fruit richness.	91	34	Veneto	Glera
101,441	US	With very neutral aromas and flavors, this medium-bodied and reasonably crisp wine will be fine for everyday meals. Made from 60% Chardonnay and 40% Viognier, it is quiet and subdued. .	83	10	California	White Blend
81,810	Italy	Aromas of dark berry, scorched earth and leather take shape in the glass. The forward palate offers ripe sour cherry and grilled herb alongside round but not very persistent tannins. Drink through 2016.	87	40	Tuscany	Red Blend
81,738	US	Dried herb and bramble notes cast a savory shadow to crisp apple, pear and lemon flavors in this sweet-tart Riesling. Brisk acidity enlivens the midpalate.	85	25	New York	Riesling
30,609	France	The wine is all fruit initially and then the firmer tannins kick in. It has a strongly tannic core that leaves the wine dry and tough after 12 months in barrel. The fruit weight should broaden the wine out, giving black fruitiness in the future. Drink from 2017.	88	17	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
57,688	Argentina	A bright and lifted three-grape blend with red berry, bright plum and mild oak aromas. The feel is firm but round, with raspberry, plum, pepper and other dry spice flavors. Finishes smooth and uncomplicated, with lingering vanilla flavors. A complete wine made from Malbec, Cabernet and Merlot.	90	35	Mendoza Province	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
102,871	France	From a vintage that frankly hasn’t impressed us much, this is a pleasant surprise. Full and toasty, with some yeast and butter, there are also youthful citrus elements of lemon and lime. A creamy texture and a long, smooth finish complete the package.	92	55	Champagne	Champagne Blend
34,426	US	Nicely ripe fruit flavors and a full rounded texture give this affordably priced wine more presence than most. The aroma is honeydew melon and the flavors are ripe apple and Anjou pear, while the acidity is on the soft side.	89	13	California	Sauvignon Blanc
119,466	US	Delicately structured, this Chardonnay has simple citrus peach flavors, with an undertow of green herbs. It's dry and tart with acidity.	83	17	California	Chardonnay

48,210

US

Co-fermented with a small quantity of Viognier, this Syrah was aged in 100% new oak. It's flashy and completely satisfying to drink now. Starts a little soft and dry, then explodes midpalate into a burst of cherry and raspberry fruit, with creamy, caramelized notes. The finish is long-lasting and elegant.

93

50

California

Syrah

128,835

US

A blend of Syrah (70%), Grenache (25%) and Mourvèdre, this tantalizing wine offers a near endless list of aromatic descriptors, from white pepper to smoked meat, currant, mineral, licorice, coffee and dried herbs, seeming to evolve with each swirl. The palate is layered and rich with plum, pomegranate and lingering dark fruit flavors. It drinks best at a cool 62 degrees.

92

40

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

65,834

US

Quite light in the glass, this bottling still shows a vast array of tropical-leaning aromas, from jasmine and honeysuckle to ripe Gala apples, orange juice and key lime pie. Crisp stonefruit shows on the sip, as do more powerful white flowers, like tuberose.

86

28

California

Viognier

47,429

US

This expresses the greatness of its vintage and vineyard, offering wave after wave of raspberry and cherry pie flavors, plus notes of red currant, sweet licorice, spicy Dr. Pepper and smoky sandalwood. There's also something exotically briary and wild that intrigues. Even more remarkable is the texture, an amalgam of acids and tannins that rivals any Pinot Noir ever produced in California. It should age for up to 20 years.

99

75

California

Pinot Noir

85,474

US

Richer scents of maple smoke and bacon fat integrate well into a sexy purple flower, blackberry and clove-laced black-cherry-syrup character on the nose of this wine, which includes 2% Viognier. A black-pepper-crusted beef quality shows once sipped alongside boysenberries, violets, lilacs, Sichuan peppercorn and even black tea.

92

55

California

Syrah

51,316

US

Right now this is a big, tough Cabernet. It's very dry and oaky, and the black and red cherry flavors have a jammy edge. Despite the apparent simplicity, you find yourself returning to it, a good sign that suggests complex ageability. Give it 4–6 years in a cool cellar.

90

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

97,026

US

This dry light-footed blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris offers zesty grapefruit and lemon flavors edged with white tea leaves. Balanced in alcohol, subtle and refreshing, it finishes on a clean, slightly mineral tone.

88

16

New York

White Blend

89,407

Argentina

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

90

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

33,098

Italy

You'll find earthy aromas of used leather, game and a slight whiff of barnyard on this soulful red. The funky aromas follow over to the palate along with fleshy black cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and a note of salted game. The rounded tannins are rather forward for such a young Barolo. Drink 2019–2025.

88

50

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

75,080

US

Medium-bodied, this wine's ripe fruit characteristics offer dark plum and golden raisin flavors. It will serve most basic wine needs.

85

15

California

Merlot

90,710

France

This is a warm, creamy wine with layers of toast and yellow fruits. It has a ripe feel and a generous texture, with a mineral backbone keeps the wine in shape. Drink now.

92

38

Burgundy

Chardonnay

126,319

US

Pretty aromas of rose and lavender mark the entry of this full-bodied, concentrated wine characterized by pomegranate, cranberry and a lightness of cardamom. Lengthy and dense, it opens in the glass, its tannins softened, with a length of earthiness that lingers on the finish.

92

54

California

Pinot Noir

15,861

US

Lipstick cherry and vanilla provide a burst of red fruit succulence around a core of big oak and a leathery midpalate marked by dried sage. Drying tannins belabor the finish, before rediscovering its lovely, though bold, expression of fruit.

90

20

California

Merlot

70,696

Australia

After 26 months in French oak and additional time in bottle, this is a sumptuously silky Grenache. The complex aromas hint at roasted meat, vanilla and stewed plum, while the flavors follow suit, picking up mocha notes on the long, mouthwatering finish. Ready to drink.

90

80

South Australia

Grenache

5,385

Argentina

Creamy aromas of vanilla cookies and melon lead to a plump palate with just enough vital acidity to keep things fresh. Citrusy flavors lean toward clementines and grapefruit, while the finish is peachy but also pithy in flavor.

85

13

Mendoza Province

Pinot Grigio

21,778

US

Heavy and dull, this dry Zin has overripe flavors of raisins and prunes, and is quite tannic. Drink now.

82

34

California

Zinfandel

30,152

France

This is an attractive pink-colored wine, with soft crushed strawberry fruit flavors. The acidity is light, giving preference to the fruit and ripe flavor. The aftertaste veers on the sweet side, but it's well balanced.

87

60

Champagne

Champagne Blend

93,012

US

A light garnet color along with lightly earthy and spicy flavors fit this wine into the old school, where it offers nice balance, elegant texture and complex nuances of tea, cherry and raspberry. There is no heavy, overripe fruit or extreme oakiness to get in the way of pure enjoyment.

89

38

California

Pinot Noir

1,227

US

Marc Piro continued to hone his craft under Jim Clendenen at Au Bon Climat, and that expertise shows in this bottling, which combines Presqu'ile and Bien Nacido Vineyards to produce a wine that's both zesty in the underripe style yet full of fruit as well. Aromas of wild oregano, thyme, tapenade and red cherry lead into a palate full of tantalizing acidity, with tart Montmorency cherry, tangy tomato and fennel spice.

93

32

California

Pinot Noir

44,546

Italy

Aromas of white spring flowers, grapefruit and Bartlett pear lead the nose. The bright palate offers lime zest, green apple and a note of white peach alongside bright acidity and a foaming mousse.

87

16

Veneto

Glera

90,341

US

Shows the impeccable balance you expect from this master winemaker, even in this hot vintage, where supermaturity was a challenge. The wine is certainly ripe, offering a mouthful of blackberries, cherries and currants. But it never loses its elegant tannin-acid architecture. Beautiful now, and should develop through 2014.

93

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

791

US

Just one barrel was produced from the own-rooted vines planted almost 50 years ago. It's earthy and scented with a menthol/eucalyptus note, that carries on through. Cranberry flavor reflects the rather low alcohol, but there is no hint of unripeness or any vegetative character.

90

85

Oregon

Pinot Noir

91,218

US

A big, rich, fruity Cabernet. It's a little one-dimensional, but there's no denying that the blackberries, cherries and raspberries are delicious. Drink now.

86

22

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

30,554

US

The Stillwater Creek vineyard bottling of Novelty Hill Syrah shows a bit more concentration than its sibling in 2011, with whiffs of pepper, earth, soy and umami. There's a saline character as well, reflective of the mineral-rich soil, and a pleasant taste of toast in the tannins.

88

28

Washington

Syrah

16,385

France

This is a generous wine with fine potential. Its rich red fruits and acidity are contrasted with dense tannins and spice from the wood aging. It will be slow but sure to develop into a delicious wine. Drink from 2021.

92

79

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

93,847

US

This is a fruit-driven wine showing lots of apple and melon aromas, broad peach and apple flavors and a generous texture. It's very tasty and refreshing and has touch of sweetness.

87

10

California

Sauvignon Blanc

108,805

Italy

The 2005 vintage was a hot one, and this offers aromas of ripe fruit and savory spice, and the intensity is not overdone by any means. In fact, it shows elegance and restraint, with a thick, succulent quality to the firm tannins.

92

49

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

509

US

This would be a straightforward Bordeaux red blend if not for the 5% Petite Sirah within. Together, it's 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec as well, sourced from Howell Mountain and valley floor sites. Dusty and herbal, the wine is thick and sizably tannic, with dense black fruit, leather and coffee.

91

65

California

Red Blend

14,481

France

A bold pink color suggests the richness of this vanilla-flavored wine that misses out on a truly refreshing character. It is full and soft, with a touch of bitter acidity at the end.

84

14

Bordeaux

Rosé

62,477

US

With no time spent in oak, this bright, simple Sauvignon Blanc has pear, grapefruit and gooseberry notes and a quick finish.

86

14

California

Sauvignon Blanc

28,001

US

This is a soft, simple white marked by green olive and vanilla bean flavors that feel concentrated and full on the finish.

86

25

California

Chardonnay

5,752

US

There's a very savory, gamy element on the nose of this wine, which shows wild berries, woody shrubs, rusty iron and turned forest-floor aromas. The palate is punchy at first, with decent acidity and cranberry-plum-raspberry flavors, then clings to a pencil-lead core deeper into the sip. It offers quite a bit of complexity.

92

30

California

Pinot Noir

117,392

US

This Chardonnay, Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier blend is a good, all-purpose white wine but lacks focus.

85

14

Washington

White Blend

76,232

Spain

Cidery aromas vie with bready notes to give the bouquet complexity. This feels zesty, juicy and citric, with a lean, racy body. Apple cider, green herb, lime and scallion flavors finish with a lasting taste of lime.

88

18

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

87,643

US

A luxurious, tempting oak perfume continues through the flavors of this richly textured, spicy wine. Aromas are toasted and smoky while the flavors are ripe blackberries and dark chocolate.

90

21

California

Tempranillo

34,947

US

Big and bold, broad in texture and deep in ripe, chocolaty flavors, this wine is full bodied. Rich in mouthfeel, it's almost sweet, and deftly made to be appealing now despite very firm tannins. It will be outstanding in a pairing with big proteins.

91

45

California

Syrah

118,167

US

The color is a pale copper-pink, suggesting the wine's delicacy in the mouth. It's low in alcohol, bright in acidity and subtle in apricot, orange rind and white pepper flavors.

89

32

California

Rosé

69,945

France

Dominated by grapefruit and pineapple flavors, this is very fresh and herbaceous. The wine is crisp and clean, with acidity at the end. Drink over the next year.

86

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

32,876

Italy

Here's a standout Sangiovese-based super Tuscan with a very unique peppermint-like characteristic that helps to increase the wine's intensity and delicious overall effect. Beyond that layer of fresh mint are softer aromas of earth, white mineral, talc powder, pencil lead, cherry and spice. The wine has a strong mineral component.

92

120

Tuscany

Sangiovese

80,030

France

This is a bright wine—still a little closed but promising fine fruitiness for the future. With herbal acidity, lemon and grapefruit flavors and a zesty tang at the end, it will develop relatively quickly. Drink from 2020.

92

22

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

102,655

US

Young and precise, this balances flavors of wild raspberries against a mineral foundation. Suggestions of wet stone and a dash of brown spices come through, with lots of supporting acidity. As it fades, there's a lick of chocolate from aging in 29% new French oak.

90

105

Oregon

Pinot Noir

83,907

US

Weedy and vegetal despite some decent raspberry, cherry and spice flavors. Okay for a big party where nobody's fussy.

83

10

California

Zinfandel

96,388

US

While unusual for the variety, the herb, lemon and orange zest, berry, green pepper and asphalt aromas provide intrigue. The fruit flavors are plump but light, showing good length. This wine provides enjoyment, though Merlot wouldn't be a first guess.

88

20

Washington

Merlot

42,889

US

Brings a welcome restraint to Cabernet, offering a dry, somewhat tannic wine of great elegance. Easy to like for its balanced flavors of blackberries and black currants, with gentle influences of oak. Pretty good price for a wine of polish and sophistication.

89

19

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

68,977

US

The fruit pops on this wine, with notes of blackberry and blueberry pie. It pulls no punches with a full-throttled style. It's a bit one-note but hits that note hard.

91

80

Washington

Syrah

112,048

US

Dark and toasty, this wild yeast fermented wine spent 10 months in 10% new Oregon oak. Slightly roasted flavors combine coffee grounds, chunky cherry and cassis. It's a full-bodied full-flavored wine which favors power over finesse.

89

26

Oregon

Pinot Noir

49,808

France

The great dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend has given this wine both a fine structure and crisp swathes of black-currant fruit. It is a firm wine at this stage, although the fine fruitiness will become an important part of the taste. The estate is named after one of Napoleon's generals who became King of Sweden. Drink from 2021.

91

40

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

46,420

US

Mourvèdre (81%) makes up the majority of this blend with Grenache (12%) and Syrah filling it out. It leans into savory notes, with aromas of sage, dried herbs, white pepper and mineral. The flavors are plush and palate-coating, bringing a slightly tacky feel that softens over time. It will be best after 2019.

92

45

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

79,995

US

This is a simple North Coast Cabernet with herbal and green olive and pepper tones.

83

10

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

52,131

US

This is the biggest, ripest and most expensive of Von Strasser's new releases and also the least satisfying at the moment. It's explosive in blackberries, cherries, blueberries, mulberries, chocolate and cedar, and comes across as a bit direct and jammy. Could surprise after 5–6 years in the cellar.

90

125

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

109,547

US

V. Sattui has quietly been producing outstanding Cabernets, and here's another. The vineyard is on the Rutherford bench, arguably the tenderloin of the appellation. Made from 100% Cabernet, the wine is sumptuously rich and soft in tannins, with sour red-cherry candy, licorice, bacon and pepper spice flavors. Will age well for at least 10 years.

94

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

105,150

US

This is a classic, concentrated but elegant wine, from the wonderful black cherry and forest underbrush aromas to the ripe fruit flavors, full body and polished texture. Aging in 30% new Hungarian barrels gave a subtle spicy accent.

92

32

California

Pinot Noir

36,390

US

Chalky tannins and dried herb mark the entry of this wine, which stays varietal despite the addition of 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sage, peppercorn and high-toned cherry complete the picture, with well-integrated, generous tannins framing the overall picture, finishing in swirls of cinnamon and vanilla.

88

42

California

Cabernet Franc

47,060

Italy

A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Montepulciano, this opens with aromas of violet, toast and spiced plum. The ripe palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and espresso. It's balanced with round, hearty tannins.

88

18

Tuscany

Red Blend

21,196

Italy

Vanilla, baked cherry and coconut aromas lead the nose. Bright and tense, the palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, vanilla and clove flavors, bolstered by firm acidity and youthfully austere tannins that leave a grippy finish. It needs to unwind and soften.

89

42

Tuscany

Sangiovese

1,760

France

While this wine has a strong tannic structure, it also offers plenty of ripe fruit. Acidity is kept in its place, giving freshness allied to warm berries. Drink this attractive wine from 2016.

84

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

121,255

US

This is a lightly style wine but extremely vivacious and sexy, with cut red apple, mandarin orange skin, ripe nectarine and lightly honeyed Gravenstein apple on the nose. It's clean, crisp and focused on the palate, where lime zest, limestone and a touch of buttered pear in the midpalate makes for a complete and balanced sip.

93

55

California

Chardonnay

100,158

US

Aromas of wood spice, black licorice, graphite and blackberry are followed by cranberry and cherry flavors. It shows a fine sense of balance.

90

25

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

119,438

Germany

Earthy, smoky mineral tones extend from nose to finish here, accentuating flavors of fresh red apple, tangerine and lemon. The sharp, racy mouthfeel is softened by hints of honey and a long, salt and citrus finish.

91

43

Mosel

Riesling

92,709

Australia

Despite this wine's 16% alcohol, it does an excellent job carrying it. There's a superripe lift to the aromas of black cherry and a hint of sur-maturité in the notes of apricot preserves, but this is a big, lush, creamy-textured wine with a wonderfully rich mouthfeel and layers of fruit on the finish. Drink now–2012.

91

80

South Australia

Grenache

93,590

US

The aromas seem quite dried out, with notes of fruit leather, medicine cabinet and green herbs. The palate brings more of the same, seeming more advanced than its age might indicate.

87

34

Washington

Cabernet Franc

411

US

A nice Cabernet for this everyday price. Dry and smooth, it shows interesting flavors of black currants, plums, herbs and spice, with a touch of smoky oak.

85

12

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

80,459

France

Every Burgundy merchant seems to have a Clos de Vougeot. The Aegerter's version is relatively light, as much fruit as tannins even while it is young. Berry fruits comes forward, while the layer of tannin is in a supporting role. It's a solid wine, not one that has a long future. Drink from 2018.

91

369

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

29,853

US

Vanilla, cocoa, barrel spice and herb aromas are followed by creamy fruit and barrel flavors. The vanilla notes overwhelm the nose and palate, however, distracting from the fruit.

88

28

Washington

Malbec

125,808

US

Deeply colored in gold, this Chardonnay already is showing signs of premature aging. The pineapple and mango fruit is drying out, showing a nutty edge, as in cashews and macadamias. Oak sticks out a bit clumsily.

85

40

California

Chardonnay

78,698

US

This wine is aging out quickly and will not meet reserve-level expectations for most consumers. The fruit tastes a little cooked and the tannins have a strong stemmy character. Drink up.

83

15

Oregon

Pinot Noir

32,454

France

This is a firm wine with solid tannins as well as layers of juicy black currant and cherry fruits. Acidity and a good sense of structure are still developing, meaning the wine needs to age longer. Drink from 2018.

90

40

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

92,245

US

Lovely honeysuckle and apple blossoms lead into lush flavors of gooseberry jam, lemon curd and apple butter; the mind reels at the complexity. It's all in perfect balance, the fruit set against bracing acidity, the hint of sweetness rounding out the mouthfeel, and the whole flavor circus rolling merrily along through an extended finish.

93

24

Oregon

Riesling

9,264

US

Fiesta is the lightest, most fruit forward of the four different Tempranillos from Abacela. In a great year such as this, it's also substantial and authoritative, with deeply driven flavors of red and blueberry fruit, a whiff of oak and slightly grainy tannins. This wine clearly over-delivers for the price.

91

23

Oregon

Tempranillo

38,788

US

This wine is 40% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre with the balance Counoise. It's lighter in color, with aromas of plum, boysenberry, herbs, flowers and peppery spices. It's palate-coating with silky, sweet fruit flavors that linger.

89

28

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

29,542

US

The volatiles are quite amped on this wine. It makes it a struggle to get at the tart black cherry flavors.

84

34

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

120,636

US

Aged 22 months in French and American oak, this wine hails from a rolling hillside in the appellation and is 100% varietal. Subdued aromas give way to an expansive and full-bodied array of red currant, cranberry and black pepper, with a vibrant underpinning of minerality as well as tobacco and baking chocolate.

91

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

116,448

US

Marked by excessive heat from high alcohol, with a jalapeño pepper burn all the way through. If you can get past that, it's dry and smoothly tannic, with rich berrry, currant, cocoa and spice flavors.

86

39

California

Red Blend

55,413

US

This rosé is dry, crisp, tart and complex, offering raspberry, cherry, herb, white pepper and vanilla flavors.

87

20

California

Rosé

73,959

France

Although this wine has structure and acidity, it's lean, and the fruit seems to be missing. Spice and a smoky character give some pleasure. Drink from 2020.

85

19

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

32,242

France

Intense lemon and tangerine notes create a most inviting nose. The palate continues in full tangy mode: the aromatic zest of tangerine and ripe Amalfi lemon create a concentrated, uplifting and even cooling freshness. The body is slender but totally concentrated with a dynamic linear structure. Over time, riper notes of honeyed stone fruit appear despite the very dry style, but the chief charms are a marvel of citrus diversity. Drink now through 2035.

94

36

Alsace

Riesling

89,161

US

From the estate vines, this toasty wine will please those who love a soft and buttery style of Chardonnay. Buttered popcorn, toasted walnuts, soft and ripe tropical fruits all come into play; Bonair's definable house style.

89

20

Washington

Chardonnay

15,916

US

Herb, flower and exotic spice aromas lead to broad creamy-feeling fruit flavors that persist on the finish.

88

36

Washington

Malbec

95,244

France

Very young, fruity wine. The tannins are already soft and there is stalky black currant acidity that gives the wine a bright freshness. It has no wood and will develop fast.

83

14

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

104,272

US

This Cabernet Sauvignon-based ode to Pauillac improves immensely as it sits open for days, suggesting great ageability. Black currant, gravel, teriyaki and dark chocolate show on the nose, leading into a palate that is tightly wound with chalky tannins. Flavors of black fruit, charcoal, pencil shavings and coffee slowly emerge. Drink 2019–2033.

93

50

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

72,262

US

This is a chewy, generous and expansive vineyard-designated wine, dense and fulsome in savory cranberry, cardamom and streaks of black tea. Full bodied, its layers of texture are soft and velvety, and the finish lengthy in spice.

91

65

California

Pinot Noir

42,281

US

The aromas are up front, with barrel notes of char, vanilla, coconut and baking spice followed by cigar box. The wood really shows through on the palate as well, with the tannins bringing a strong sense of astringency.

86

40

Washington

Tempranillo

24,477

US

This kitchen-sink blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah shows squashed black plum, caramelized blueberries, mocha and a sweet cedar touch on the nose. Toasty oak flavors carry the palate, with vanilla, brown sugar, beef char, baked blueberries and a touch of Vietnamese coffee.

90

30

California

Red Blend

44,295

US

Made in tiny amounts from a single vineyard, this is an impressive layering of dark cherry, vanilla and black pepper, retrained in texture. Bulky tannins paint a portrait of mountain power as the grippy texture holds on tenaciously.

88

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

27,303

US

Winemaker Ross Cobb, formerly with Williams Selyem and Flowers, did his best, but this Pinot tastes acidic and labored. It has lean flavors of strawberries and raspberries and new French oak. The wine isn't showing well now, seemingly a victim of the harsh vintage. Its future is problematic.

88

85

California

Pinot Noir

97,817

US

Soft, hot in alcohol and sweet, this simple wine tastes like melted raspberry and cherry jam.

84

40

California

Zinfandel

10,008

France

This is an attractive, fast-maturing wine with soft tannins, ripe fruits and a juicy, perfumed acidity. It has considerable weight and concentration, along with firm red-plum and berry flavors. It's an elegant wine that should be drunk from 2017.

91

193

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

114,308

US

Ripe with cherry-berry juiciness, this is a value-priced Zin that's straightforward all around, with a bitter taste to the finish.

82

11

California

Zinfandel

69,586

US

It conveys tastes of buttered toast, honey and vanilla. The underlying fruit flavors are of oranges and mangoes.

84

23

California

Chardonnay

77,243

US

Baked black cherry and black plum meet with lots of crushed gravel and light fennel on the nose of this bottling that is all about fruit and earth, rather than herb and spice. Tart red plum and sour raspberry show upon the palate's gravelly texture, but darker red fruit awaits in the midpalate along with char and a touch of soy.

93

52

California

Pinot Noir

104,534

US

You'll want to give this young Cab some time in the cellar, because it's locked down in tannins. Buried underneath the astringency is a wealth of sweet black currants and savory anise and sandalwood. Try after 2011.

91

62

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

72,263

Italy

Enticing scents of wild flowers and white peach lead the nose, with a whiff of dried herbs. The creamy palate offers juicy apple, yellow pear and crushed minerals alongside zesty acidity and a frothy, elegant mousse. It's elegant and linear, with vibrant acidity that lifts up the fruit richness.

91

34

Veneto

Glera

101,441

US

With very neutral aromas and flavors, this medium-bodied and reasonably crisp wine will be fine for everyday meals. Made from 60% Chardonnay and 40% Viognier, it is quiet and subdued. .

83

10

California

White Blend

81,810

Italy

Aromas of dark berry, scorched earth and leather take shape in the glass. The forward palate offers ripe sour cherry and grilled herb alongside round but not very persistent tannins. Drink through 2016.

87

40

Tuscany

Red Blend

81,738

US

Dried herb and bramble notes cast a savory shadow to crisp apple, pear and lemon flavors in this sweet-tart Riesling. Brisk acidity enlivens the midpalate.

85

25

New York

Riesling

30,609

France

The wine is all fruit initially and then the firmer tannins kick in. It has a strongly tannic core that leaves the wine dry and tough after 12 months in barrel. The fruit weight should broaden the wine out, giving black fruitiness in the future. Drink from 2017.

88

17

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

57,688

Argentina

A bright and lifted three-grape blend with red berry, bright plum and mild oak aromas. The feel is firm but round, with raspberry, plum, pepper and other dry spice flavors. Finishes smooth and uncomplicated, with lingering vanilla flavors. A complete wine made from Malbec, Cabernet and Merlot.

90

35

Mendoza Province

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

102,871

France

From a vintage that frankly hasn’t impressed us much, this is a pleasant surprise. Full and toasty, with some yeast and butter, there are also youthful citrus elements of lemon and lime. A creamy texture and a long, smooth finish complete the package.

92

55

Champagne

Champagne Blend

34,426

US

Nicely ripe fruit flavors and a full rounded texture give this affordably priced wine more presence than most. The aroma is honeydew melon and the flavors are ripe apple and Anjou pear, while the acidity is on the soft side.

89

13

California

Sauvignon Blanc

119,466

US

Delicately structured, this Chardonnay has simple citrus peach flavors, with an undertow of green herbs. It's dry and tart with acidity.

83

17

California

Chardonnay