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
48,892	US	The official alcohol is under 14%, but the wine smells and tastes like Port. It has a burnt, caramelized taste of baked fruit, and is tannicly astringent.	80	29	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
119,993	US	Young and tight, this requires aggressive aeration before it begins to show much flavor. It's worth the effort, as it evolves into a dense, delicious wine that marries its juicy stone fruits to a rich mix of vanilla, coconut and caramel components from the barrel aging. Drink 2018 to 2030.	92	65	Oregon	Chardonnay
96,569	US	This interesting Cabernet shows blackberry and cassis flavors alongside earthy notes of green olive and mint. The acidity is sharp and keen. It's not going anywhere, so drink up.	85	28	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
98,492	France	Fruity and with fine tannins, this wine is already tasting good. It has juicy acidity, lots of ripe tannins and black-currant fruitiness. Drink this wine from 2018.	86	13	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
41,633	US	The structure of this Syrah, from a vineyard in the Royal Slope, is impressive. It's a balanced blend of flavors, with juicy raspberry and blackberry fruit, black olive, pepper and spice.	89	36	Washington	Syrah
103,407	US	Tough and gritty in youth, this Pinot is showing edgy tannins, tart acidity and unincorporated oak. It's almost like a barrel sample. But it's stuffed with currant, licorice and mocha flavors, and should develop well in the bottle. Try after 2009.	90	56	California	Pinot Noir
18,474	Spain	Cherry and leather aromas show a stemmy, brambly element. The mouthfeel is sharp and scratchy, while the flavors are a mix of reedy tobacco, raspberry and cherry. Choppy but juicy and lively on the finish. A blend of Mazuelo, Syrah and Garnacha.	86	16	Catalonia	Red Blend
3,543	US	L'Ecole's Columbia Valley Cabernet is again 100% varietal; the blending magic comes from a mix of excellent vineyards. This is a classy, classic wine, with pinpoint structure and spot-on varietal character. The compact palate is packed with details, and though it's drinking well, it is clearly a wine to cellar for a while longer. Notes of clean earth, clover, herb and light chocolate add depth to a core of black cherry and cassis.	92	32	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
14,444	Italy	Sophie is a blend of mostly Chardonnay (88%) with touches of fragrant Viognier and Sauvignon. The wine shows amazing density and richness in the mouth followed by fresh tones of apricot, lemon curd, almond paste and cantaloupe melon. You'll love the balanced intensity.	91	35	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
61,304	US	Fruity and fresh, this medium-bodied wine has dark plum and blackberry aromas, along with ripe and almost sweet blackberry flavors. A lightly gripping texture helps make it appetizing.	88	15	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
98,935	Argentina	Basic sweet berry aromas come across like fruit punch. The palate has a standard, solid mouthfeel and generic berry flavors. A little bit medicinal on the finish, and overall it's your regular everyday red wine with not much varietal character. 50% each Sangiovese and Bonarda.	85	9	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
86,204	US	Wet leaf, black cherry, and assertive barrel flavors of brown sugar, maple syrup and crème brûlée are the dominant notes in this blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc. The short, slightly bitter, green finish is the downside.	85	28	Washington	Tempranillo
66,106	US	Aromas of lees, honeycomb, butter and biscuit are followed by full-bodied flavors with lees notes dominating. It's a stylistic expression of the variety.	87	26	Washington	Chardonnay
21,533	Italy	This opens with savory aromas of cured meat and leather with background tones of ripe fruit and black cherry. It is smooth and sophisticated on the palate with a fine texture and a fruit-forward finish.	92	88	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
23,657	US	Made from 50-50 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, this blend is firm in tannins and stuffed with lovely flavors of blackberry, cherry, currant, grilled meat, pepper, exotic spice and cedar. Brisk acidity and bold tannins suggest pairing with rich, fatty meats and cheeses now and over the next five years.	89	55	California	Red Blend
24,732	France	Bold and juicy, this is a ripe, forward wine. With red berry fruits prominent, it conveys attractive fruitiness. Tannins in the background suggest medium-term aging. Drink from 2016.	85	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
110,058	US	Brown sugar dots itself around grippy tannin and black fruit, cedar never far behind on the senses. Resolved, firm tannins balance against a brightness of acidity that manifests in a citrus-tinged finish. Drink now through 2023.	92	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
102,247	US	From a vineyard that's less than one acre in size, this special bottling is tiny but mighty, juicy in blue and red fruit. Robust in spice, it unleashes a velvety texture with ease, allowing room for focused tannin to be supportive rather than distracting. The finish retains a welcome freshness.	93	65	California	Pinot Noir
7,348	Italy	This forward wine opens with aromas that recall mature black plum, grilled herbs and meat juices with whiffs of farmyard and leather. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, sweet vanilla extract and round tannins. Even though it lacks complexity, it's enjoyable drinking for the near term. Drink through 2019.	88	45	Tuscany	Sangiovese
10,438	Italy	Here's a well-proportioned Rosso that shows notes of fresh raspberry and cherry, with an easy consistency and crisp acidity. The wine's mouthfeel is lean and crisp.	85	20	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
112,976	Italy	Subtle aromas suggesting moist soil, violet, red berry and a whiff of leather come together on this light-bodied red. On the straightforward palate, lithe tannins and bright acidity provide easygoing support for juicy Morello cherry, clove and a touch of anise. Enjoy soon.	86	14	Tuscany	Red Blend
65,185	US	This rich and strongly aromatic bottling shows marshmallow, cotton candy and banana cream on the nose. The palate picks up a freshness and flinty character, with rounded, ripe flavors of honeysuckle and lemon cream. The strong acidity and grippy texture keep the wine in line.	88	23	California	Chardonnay
126,196	Italy	Here's a simple but genuine expression from Montalcino with bright, easy fruit tones covered by a delicate layer of spice and dried tobacco. It's not too complicated or rich, but the wine offers a fresh, easy experience nonetheless.	88	79	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
107,811	US	A beautiful Syrah perfect for drinking now. It's softly tannic and dry, but very fruity, with forward flavors of blackberries, cherries, raspberries and milk chocolate, and an earthier grounding of tobacco, anise and leather.	90	28	California	Syrah
15,725	France	Full of the bright fruit typical of the vintage, this wine is made from 90% Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc. It's structured with still-young tannins and is dominated by red berry fruit, needing to age until 2021.	91	35	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
35	US	As with many of the Erath 2010 vineyard designates, this is strongly herbal. The notes of leaf and herb create somewhat unripe flavor impressions, with a touch of bitterness on the finish. The fruit just passes the ripeness of sweet tomatoes.	86	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
81,386	Spain	Clearly labeled as a medium-sweet wine, this wine's rather dry bouquet gives no hint of the soft, cloying palate to follow. This sweetness is more than medium to this taster, but it could be just the thing for guests who find normally dry wines puckery. —M.M.	81	7	Northern Spain	White Blend
125,779	US	An enormous, complex, brooding and extraordinary Pinot Noir, a blend of Bien Nacido and Gainey's Santa Rosa Hills vineyards. Opens with a blast of peppery, cherry fruit, with tobacco and minty overtones. The rich berry flavors in a creamy texture, with sweet oak tannins, feel ripe, plush and terrific in the mouth. Editors' Choice.	93	35	California	Pinot Noir
10,534	US	The reliable négociant winery scores once again on this bottling, which shows intriguing aromas of smoked plums, hoisin-marinated pork, cocoa powder, crushed pepper and ollallieberries. It's delicious once sipped, with pepper, boysenberries and a hickory wood character.	90	15	California	Syrah
102,263	Spain	Few wines offer as much as this for under $30, but this extracted, bullish Tempranillo blend is not for everyone. Blackberry, cola and savory herbal aromas are strong and pure. This feels wide and cushioned, yet is still a driller. Blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors finish rich and ripe. Drink through 2024.	93	28	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
76,543	US	Here's a good, dry and fairly complex Pinot Noir from the same estate as Calera's better and more expensive block bottings. It's light bodied and spicy, with earthy notes of tobacco, herbs, cherries and sandalwood. Drink now, after a good decanting.	89	35	California	Pinot Noir
19,151	Italy	Aromas of tilled earth, spice, leather, blue flowers and Mediterranean herbs lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot. The concentrated but polished palate offers a savory core of black cherry and red currant, while notes of bell pepper, mocha and baking spice provide backup. Supple tannins support the juicy flavors. Enjoy through 2017.	90	28	Tuscany	Red Blend
61,554	Italy	This sweet, frizzy wine opens with a dark ruby color and offers a veritable aromatic explosion. You get it all here: from blueberry and raspberry to sweet spice and cinnamon cream. From the Casorzo region of Piedmont, the wine is fresh and intensely fragrant. Pair it with cold cuts and salumi.	84	18	Piedmont	Red Blend
7,999	Argentina	Fresh, layered aromas of black fruits and licorice are appealing. The palate is full and offers kick, while flavors of berry and plum are fairly rich, spicy and honest for $9 Cabernet. A bit sticky and it falls off on the finish, but overall it's a nice value red.	87	9	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
114,791	Italy	This is a pleasant red wine from Piedmont in northern Italy made with Nebbiolo and Vespolina grapes for a clean delivery of berry, spice and cola aromas. The wine is tonic and fresh in the mouth with clean acidity and playful bite of exotic spice on the close.	88	40	Piedmont	Red Blend
87,702	US	This somewhat disjointed wine is laced tight with streaks of stem and herb. The light strawberry fruit flavors are accented with a touch of chocolate, presumably from barrel aging.	86	28	Oregon	Pinot Noir
13,307	US	Holding 42% Mourvèdre, 31% Cinsault and 27% Grenache, this full-bodied wine has aromas of peppery spices, herbs and jammy red and black fruit. Flavors are sweet and ripe, with restrained oak.	90	36	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
61,863	US	Near equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (14%), this wine is aromatically reserved, with notes of tire rubber, parsley, coffee and exotic spices. It's supple in feel, filled with coffee and cherry flavors. There's plenty interesting going on but the aromas and flavors seem disconnected.	87	25	Washington	Red Blend
94,237	US	Dramatic, powerful flavors of blackberries and cassis liqueur explode in this wine—the classic markers of great Cabernet Sauvignon. At the same time, it shows softly refined tannins that make it firm but drinkable now. With a long, spicy finish, it shows considerable complexity. Best now; it will gradually lose fruit for another 6–7 years.	94	100	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
120,232	US	This bottling offers plum and plump blackberry on the nose along with milk chocolate, leather and cedar. It's quite tight and tannic on the palate at first, but all the expected and delicious components are in place: tart blueberry, tobacco, coffee and hints of licorice and chocolate that will emerge emerge more with time.	90	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
23,372	Spain	Hefty and a tiny bit herbal on the nose, with tomato, red berry and spice aromas. The palate is perfectly formed and balanced, with roasted berry, smoked meat and earthy flavors. Turns juicy and dry on what amounts to a tight finish. Excellent modern Rioja to drink now through 2015.	92	33	Northern Spain	Red Blend
126,295	US	Roasted macadamia, toasted coconut and baked apple scents lead the nose of this wine from Santa Barbara County's first commercial vineyard. The palate is broad to start, with lemon curd, pear and almond flavors; but it centers on a flinty mineral character as it finishes.	92	40	California	Chardonnay
20,815	US	An aromatic, seductive wine, scented with smoke and chocolate, cedar and strawberry. Thick and chewy, with ripe raspberry fruit and a liquorous, barrel-inflected finish. This is a big wine for those who like sheer power, in both fruit and tannins.	91	23	Washington	Merlot
125,881	US	Dijon clones notwithstanding, this wine is buttery and oaky, emphasizing the flavors of barrel fermentation (in 40% new French oak). Apart from that, it shows moderate acids and a little heat in the finish.	87	30	Oregon	Chardonnay
92,637	Argentina	If you like big Malbecs, this blend of grapes from three elevations is up your alley. Graphite, blackberry, mocha and vanilla aromas are inviting, while the rich, sappy palate houses coffee, cooked berry and coconut flavors. It's oaky, ripe, heavy and full of power. Drink now–2016.	91	35	Mendoza Province	Malbec
17,779	US	Mourvèdre (45%), Grenache (31%) and Syrah (12%) make up the majority of this wine, which is fleshed out with Counoise, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul. Vibrant aromas of cracked pepper, raspberry, underbrush, dried violets, smoked meat and herb are followed by elegant yet still flavorful fruit and savory notes that show a pleasing tartness and generous mouthfeel.	92	60	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
76,625	France	With up to seven years' bottle aging, this is at a fine point between crispness and a fuller, more mature style. It is ripe with red fruits, cut with acidity and a hint of toastiness. Drink now.	90	60	Champagne	Champagne Blend
73,751	France	This is a fresh, strawberry-flavored wine with a crisp, dry aftertaste. An attractive tangy character gives life and brilliance. Ready to drink, it is a real apéritif wine.	89	23	Provence	Rosé
31,940	US	This Petit Verdot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend clearly wants some time in the cellar. Although it's extraordinarily rich with blackberries, black currants and violets, the tannin-acid structure is such that aging for at least ten years shouldn't be a problem.	90	65	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
100,337	US	There's a lot to like in this youthful, concentrated white, from its tartness of green apple and lime to its mineral-laden acidity. Full bodied, it never loses that sense of verve on the palate, which helps rein in the ripeness.	88	36	California	Chardonnay
39,922	US	Dry and soft, this is a pretty Merlot to drink with lusty fare, like barbecued pork and tri-tip. It has tannin-inspired flavors of black cherries, red currants, mocha, bacon and spice. Drink now.	84	20	California	Merlot
33,375	US	This ripe and rich wine has firm tannins and a smooth texture, making it a tasty match for rich protein dishes. It packs plump blackberry and juicy boysenberry flavors in a blend that tastes just slightly sweet, coating the palate and lingering on the finish.	87	22	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
24,029	US	Brisk and bright, this bottling showcases a more cutting expression of Merlot. Crisp black cherry and plum flavors are accented by bramble and a touch of sage. The finish lingers long, fringed by fine, firm tannins.	87	26	New York	Merlot
54,286	US	This single-block, one-barrel reserve is the best of the 2010 reserve Pinots from Coeur de Terre. It's medium ripe, with pretty accents of rose petals and milk chocolate, around raspberry fruit. Showing well already, it's a wine to drink young.	88	58	Oregon	Pinot Noir
34,507	US	This is the most accessible, most interesting and most compelling of Sbragia's new Cabernets. It's extraordinarily powerful in the potent, sweetly refined tannins and ripe flavors of blackberries and cassis, leading to a long, rich finish. You can drink it now, but it will age effortlessly for a good 8–10 years.	95	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
28,192	US	Notable for sheer deliciousness, the way you can't stop at one sip but want more. Soft and gentle, with just a touch of crispness and oak tannins, this Pinot's flavors star. Raspberries, cherries, cocoa, red licorice, cola, vanilla all mingle into some fabulously sweet confection that manages to finish thoroughly dry.	92	45	California	Pinot Noir
74,828	Italy	This release of Luca Sanjust's monumental Merlot is more subdued than the previous vintage, but what it lacks in intensity it makes up for in elegance. Instead of bursting red fruit and thick density, this feminine wine offers bite-size bursts of soft cherry, forest floor and toasted almond. It's smooth and supple in the mouth.	94	100	Tuscany	Merlot
32,207	US	This is rich and dense in blackberry and cherry jam, currant, mocha, anise and smoky cedar flavors. The mountain tannins are strong but refined, and the finish is long and spicy. It's a Bordeaux blend based on Cabernet Sauvignon, but be forewarned: It's high in alcohol.	93	90	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
12,866	US	What's so interesting about this wine is the savory minerality, racy acidity and extreme dryness that make it completely different from 99% of the Sauvignon Blancs in California. It's not without fruit. You'll find mouthwatering Meyer lemons, sweet Kaffir limes and spicy figs. Just beautiful, and a real sommelier's wine.	91	22	California	Sauvignon Blanc
101,059	US	A distinctive streak of cola runs through this wine, along with a mix of wild strawberries and spice. It's elegant and seamless, doing a lovely, gentle fade into a lightly spicy finish.	89	44	Oregon	Pinot Noir
36,928	Italy	Dark berry, chopped mint, sage, tobacco and a balsamic note are some of the aromas you'll find on this. Firmly structured and youthfully austere, the palate delivers red cherry, raspberry compote, anise and clove framed in vibrant acidity and tightly-woven tannins that give it a firm finish. It needs time to fully come together and develop complexity. Drink 2025–2043.	94	150	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
81,126	Italy	Dried black-skinned fruit, leather and a dash of Oriental spice unfold in the glass. The firm palate delivers raisin, mature blackcurrant and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins that grip the finish. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit is starting to dry up so drink soon.	87	19	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
44,821	US	Tart, acidic red fruit—pomegranate, sour raspberry—is given some sweet spice and sandalwood from barrel aging. The all-too-typical earthy/herbal aromas that plague so many Oregon Pinots are out in force. The wine sits in the mouth, sour and tight, without enough weight or texture to hint at future pleasure.	86	65	Oregon	Pinot Noir
5,024	US	There's a lot of lees influence on this wine, which gives it a sourdough taste and creamy mouthfeel. It's dense in tropical fruit, citrus, green apple and honey notes, with a touch of sweet, smoky oak. A dry, complex, multilayered wine, this will gain traction with 2–4 years in the cellar.	94	35	California	Chardonnay
12,937	Italy	This Amarone offers blackberry, plum, and chocolate flavors layered with licorice, black pepper and vanilla notes from the well-integrated oak. This is structured, but it also has finesse. Drink after 2016 for additional complexity.	90	60	Veneto	Red Blend
101,435	US	Aromatically unusual, this suggests raspberry jam, purple flowers, orange peel and manure. Flavors are tangy and almost seem to have a light spritz.	83	30	Washington	Grenache
92,560	US	There's no oak on this wine, but it sure doesn't lack in richness. Offers a blast of lemons, limes, pineapples, honeysuckle flowers, vanilla and smoky butter, brightened with crisp acidity. The grapes come from Yountville.	87	18	California	Sauvignon Blanc
123,941	France	This second wine of whites from both Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion is both rich and intensely crisp. It has a fine blend between great acidity and grapefruit fruit and a more tropical element. The tangy texture is taut with a mineral edge. Drink from 2020.	93	91	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
100,976	US	Another 100% Syrah from the producer aged in two-thirds new French oak for 18 months, this has a dullness around the fruit, a sourness almost, that is not otherwise sparked by its notes of meat and gunpowder.	85	62	California	Syrah
127,138	US	Apple and melon aromas are followed by medium-weight flavors. The concentration seems a bit watery in the midpalate but the variety is unmistakable and the balance is there.	86	10	Washington	Chardonnay
42,621	Italy	This opens with aromas that recall leafy underbrush, grilled porcini and mature dark-skinned fruit. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, coffee, sage and anise alongside tightly wound tannins that give it a firm finish.	89	80	Tuscany	Sangiovese
90,560	US	Fresh blackberry and cherry character is packed into this concentrated but rather soft and sweet wine. It has that signature wild berry aroma of the variety, then flavors are rich, the texture broad and the body full.	88	19	California	Zinfandel
57,632	France	This rosé needs to age. It has a zesty, crisp and mineral texture that is tight and nervy. As it softens, more red fruits will come to the front, although the structure will remain, making this a serious rosé for drinking with food.	92	29	Provence	Rosé
83,546	Germany	Bramble and dried herbs, pressed apple and peach notes blend elements of savory and sweet in this complex Spätlese. Shimmering lemon-lime acidity refreshes the midpalate, leaving lingering tones of finely crushed mineral.	90	33	Mosel	Riesling
90,287	France	Warm, shimmering notes of ripe pear fill nose and palate. This generous fruit is countered by citric freshness on this dry, almost slender wine that pulls off a lovely balance and softness without losing its definition.	91	50	Alsace	Pinot Gris
49,887	France	With just the right amount of bottle age, this is a vintage to drink now. It has light, sweet pastry flavors, some toast and yellow peach and strawberry flavors. Delicious, but not for keeping.	90	89	Champagne	Champagne Blend
43,916	US	This feral and gamy wine shows roast lamb, rosemary, dried fennel, rose petal and forest floor aromas on its dynamic nose. The palate leads with explosive acidity, before waves of Concord grape and blackberry flavor take hold. It's light on its feet but has some textural firmness, finishing on rosemary, lavender and game notes.	93	28	California	Syrah
108,161	US	This aromatic wine suggests green apple, tangerine and flowers. It drinks dry with stone fruit and citrus flavors that have a fleshy feel.	88	25	Washington	Riesling
81,023	US	This elegant Cabernet nicely threads the needle between fruit and herb, slaloming down the palate with a lingonberry here, a sprig of thyme there, underpinned with earth and chocolate. It's a wine that may be sipped and savored, offering subtle pleasures along the way.	90	20	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
92,804	US	This vineyard is far better known for Pinot Noir, although Failla has excelled with its Chardonnay. Novy's 2010 isn't particularly like Chardonnay. Too floral. Could almost be Viognier. Yet it's a fine wine, crisp and rich in orange, lime and honeysuckle flavors.	87	19	California	Chardonnay
120,691	US	From an estate-grown vineyard and blended with 18% Malbec, in addition to smaller percentages of Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine is crisp and edgy in red cherry and berry, with a layering of earthy fennel. Layered in fine-grained tannins, it finishes dense and seasoned in clove and cinnamon.	90	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
57,220	US	Spicy strawberry and cherry hover over forest floor and a tangle of tangy acidity that keeps this wine fresh and vibrantly compelling. Full bodied and robust, it maintains a balance in the glass, making it both food-friendly and an option on its own.	90	39	California	Pinot Noir
89,008	Italy	Perfumed red berry, blue flower, baking spice and balsamic aromas open this round, full-bodied red. The accessible palate offers wild cherry, crushed plum and cinnamon alongside soft tannins. Drink through 2016.	90	29	Tuscany	Red Blend
83,829	France	From a very fine vintage, this structured, tight while also fruity Champagne is poised and stylish. A creamy mousse balances the crisp texture and beautiful acidity. Red fruits and blood orange come through well at the end. It is ready to drink.	93	55	Champagne	Champagne Blend
124,958	US	The 2005 Doyenne Aix is 50% Cabernet, 48% Syrah and 2% Mourvèdre. The increased percentage of Syrah and the extra dollop of Mourvèdre ramps this up to a stiffer, more substantial wine than the 2004. It's a Cabernet-driven complement to the DeLille D2, replete with muscle and nerve. Dark and chewy, the wine has picked up a little Rhône-like savage-ness from the Mourvèdre, especially in the aroma. The tannins are chewy and a bit leafy, and need some airing out, but there's plenty of meaty flavor here.	89	38	Washington	Red Blend
77,810	US	Compiled from a half dozen vineyards scattered throughout the northern Willamette Valley. Firm, sculpted and dense, this has more grip and depth than might be expected at this price point. Each vineyard's grapes were separately fermented; the blending has pulled them all together with dark, plummy flavors, notes of raisin, baking spices and caramel, and a smooth, penetrating finish.	89	25	Oregon	Pinot Noir
97,153	US	A majority varietal with 10% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, this wine offers dusty tar, tobacco and chocolate around more succulent flavors of blackberry and black cherry. It finishes lean.	87	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
15,643	US	This gigantic Cabernet is not showing well now. The tannins are too strong, the fruit too fresh, sweet and direct in blackberries and cherries, the oak too unintegrated with everything else. It's like a bowl of ingredients that need to be cooked into a recipe. But the structure of tannins and acids is just fine, and while the alcohol is on the high side, the heat it gives is balanced into the overall mouthfeel. Give it 6–8 years to begin to come around.	92	80	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
95,896	US	Lots of ripe strawberries, raspberries and sweet smoky oak in this silky young Pinot Noir. It tastes a bit too extracted and jammy for subtlety, but sure does offer a mouthful of flavor.	87	50	California	Pinot Noir
15,799	US	This challenging island vineyard, planted in 2007, delivers a stunningly delicate but ripe wine, with aromas of smashed cranberry and strawberry pairing perfectly to sarsaparilla and sautéed oyster mushroom elements. The continually emerging palate shows dried citrus peels, iron and sour cherries, along with riper raspberry and pomegranate juice flavors and a spicy edge.	94	72	California	Pinot Noir
84,845	France	A bright and juicy wine, this has good potential. Its red-berry fruits are right up front along with some light tannins. Drink this fruity wine from 2018.	86	13	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
76,877	France	This wine has an austere character with a hint of tannins in its structure. Crisp apple backs up the bright luminous acidity. Almost startlingly fresh, it needs time in the bottle—drink from 2017.	92	25	Burgundy	Chardonnay
98,574	Italy	Here's a delicious Amarone, with aromas of spirit-soaked black cherry and spice. The palate is rich but refined, with succulent black cherry, raspberry and plum flavors all layered with nutmeg and white pepper accents.	92	52	Veneto	Red Blend
64,459	US	Soft red fruit adorns this light-bodied take on the variety. From the heart of the appellation, it has moderate acidity and a flavor profile characterized by rose petal, orange and cherry.	88	42	California	Pinot Noir
83,414	Italy	An attractive Cabernet Sauvignon, this opens with varietal aromas of cedar, red currants and tobacco while the palate offers dried black cherry, exotic spice and licorice. It's still tightly wound with firm but fine-grained tannins.	91	83	Tuscany	Cabernet Sauvignon
59,466	US	This blends 70% Zinfandel with 14% Petite Sirah, 6% Alicante Bouschet, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Carignane and 2% Viognier. It succeeds in its full embrace of juicy red berry and big tannin concentration, showing good structure and powerful waves of caramel and pie crust.	90	30	California	Red Blend
128,531	Argentina	Argentine Nebbiolo is a rarity, and for one to be this good is a blessing. Leather, dark berry, earth and citrus aromas are mellow and subdued, but the palate is full and forward, with baked berry, molasses and espresso flavors. This is tannic and chocolaty on the finish, with lasting sweetness.	89	65	Mendoza Province	Nebbiolo
11,146	Italy	French oak, coconut, underbrush and a balsamic aroma follow through to the full-bodied palate along with licorice, espresso, dried cherry and raw cranberry. Raspy tannins provide the assertive frame work and clench the finish. Give the tannins a few years to relax then drink to capture the remaining fruit.	89	95	Tuscany	Sangiovese
67,831	US	Rather full and deep in the nose. Some black fruit come across as being chunky but fresh. It’s quite the mouthful, with lots of oak in the backdrop providing a big serving of vanilla. Long, dry and oaky at the end. Interesting, though not overly complex or layered.	86	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
107,745	Italy	Summus is a beautiful Tuscan blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah that opens with a drying, dusty mineral feel followed by loads of plump, ripe fruit. Great care was executed in the clonal selection of Sangiovese and that variety delivers the wine's distinctive territoriality.	94	69	Tuscany	Red Blend

48,892

US

The official alcohol is under 14%, but the wine smells and tastes like Port. It has a burnt, caramelized taste of baked fruit, and is tannicly astringent.

80

29

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

119,993

US

Young and tight, this requires aggressive aeration before it begins to show much flavor. It's worth the effort, as it evolves into a dense, delicious wine that marries its juicy stone fruits to a rich mix of vanilla, coconut and caramel components from the barrel aging. Drink 2018 to 2030.

92

65

Oregon

Chardonnay

96,569

US

This interesting Cabernet shows blackberry and cassis flavors alongside earthy notes of green olive and mint. The acidity is sharp and keen. It's not going anywhere, so drink up.

85

28

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

98,492

France

Fruity and with fine tannins, this wine is already tasting good. It has juicy acidity, lots of ripe tannins and black-currant fruitiness. Drink this wine from 2018.

86

13

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

41,633

US

The structure of this Syrah, from a vineyard in the Royal Slope, is impressive. It's a balanced blend of flavors, with juicy raspberry and blackberry fruit, black olive, pepper and spice.

89

36

Washington

Syrah

103,407

US

Tough and gritty in youth, this Pinot is showing edgy tannins, tart acidity and unincorporated oak. It's almost like a barrel sample. But it's stuffed with currant, licorice and mocha flavors, and should develop well in the bottle. Try after 2009.

90

56

California

Pinot Noir

18,474

Spain

Cherry and leather aromas show a stemmy, brambly element. The mouthfeel is sharp and scratchy, while the flavors are a mix of reedy tobacco, raspberry and cherry. Choppy but juicy and lively on the finish. A blend of Mazuelo, Syrah and Garnacha.

86

16

Catalonia

Red Blend

3,543

US

L'Ecole's Columbia Valley Cabernet is again 100% varietal; the blending magic comes from a mix of excellent vineyards. This is a classy, classic wine, with pinpoint structure and spot-on varietal character. The compact palate is packed with details, and though it's drinking well, it is clearly a wine to cellar for a while longer. Notes of clean earth, clover, herb and light chocolate add depth to a core of black cherry and cassis.

92

32

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

14,444

Italy

Sophie is a blend of mostly Chardonnay (88%) with touches of fragrant Viognier and Sauvignon. The wine shows amazing density and richness in the mouth followed by fresh tones of apricot, lemon curd, almond paste and cantaloupe melon. You'll love the balanced intensity.

91

35

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

61,304

US

Fruity and fresh, this medium-bodied wine has dark plum and blackberry aromas, along with ripe and almost sweet blackberry flavors. A lightly gripping texture helps make it appetizing.

88

15

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

98,935

Argentina

Basic sweet berry aromas come across like fruit punch. The palate has a standard, solid mouthfeel and generic berry flavors. A little bit medicinal on the finish, and overall it's your regular everyday red wine with not much varietal character. 50% each Sangiovese and Bonarda.

85

9

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

86,204

US

Wet leaf, black cherry, and assertive barrel flavors of brown sugar, maple syrup and crème brûlée are the dominant notes in this blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc. The short, slightly bitter, green finish is the downside.

85

28

Washington

Tempranillo

66,106

US

Aromas of lees, honeycomb, butter and biscuit are followed by full-bodied flavors with lees notes dominating. It's a stylistic expression of the variety.

87

26

Washington

Chardonnay

21,533

Italy

This opens with savory aromas of cured meat and leather with background tones of ripe fruit and black cherry. It is smooth and sophisticated on the palate with a fine texture and a fruit-forward finish.

92

88

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

23,657

US

Made from 50-50 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, this blend is firm in tannins and stuffed with lovely flavors of blackberry, cherry, currant, grilled meat, pepper, exotic spice and cedar. Brisk acidity and bold tannins suggest pairing with rich, fatty meats and cheeses now and over the next five years.

89

55

California

Red Blend

24,732

France

Bold and juicy, this is a ripe, forward wine. With red berry fruits prominent, it conveys attractive fruitiness. Tannins in the background suggest medium-term aging. Drink from 2016.

85

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

110,058

US

Brown sugar dots itself around grippy tannin and black fruit, cedar never far behind on the senses. Resolved, firm tannins balance against a brightness of acidity that manifests in a citrus-tinged finish. Drink now through 2023.

92

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

102,247

US

From a vineyard that's less than one acre in size, this special bottling is tiny but mighty, juicy in blue and red fruit. Robust in spice, it unleashes a velvety texture with ease, allowing room for focused tannin to be supportive rather than distracting. The finish retains a welcome freshness.

93

65

California

Pinot Noir

7,348

Italy

This forward wine opens with aromas that recall mature black plum, grilled herbs and meat juices with whiffs of farmyard and leather. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, sweet vanilla extract and round tannins. Even though it lacks complexity, it's enjoyable drinking for the near term. Drink through 2019.

88

45

Tuscany

Sangiovese

10,438

Italy

Here's a well-proportioned Rosso that shows notes of fresh raspberry and cherry, with an easy consistency and crisp acidity. The wine's mouthfeel is lean and crisp.

85

20

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

112,976

Italy

Subtle aromas suggesting moist soil, violet, red berry and a whiff of leather come together on this light-bodied red. On the straightforward palate, lithe tannins and bright acidity provide easygoing support for juicy Morello cherry, clove and a touch of anise. Enjoy soon.

86

14

Tuscany

Red Blend

65,185

US

This rich and strongly aromatic bottling shows marshmallow, cotton candy and banana cream on the nose. The palate picks up a freshness and flinty character, with rounded, ripe flavors of honeysuckle and lemon cream. The strong acidity and grippy texture keep the wine in line.

88

23

California

Chardonnay

126,196

Italy

Here's a simple but genuine expression from Montalcino with bright, easy fruit tones covered by a delicate layer of spice and dried tobacco. It's not too complicated or rich, but the wine offers a fresh, easy experience nonetheless.

88

79

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

107,811

US

A beautiful Syrah perfect for drinking now. It's softly tannic and dry, but very fruity, with forward flavors of blackberries, cherries, raspberries and milk chocolate, and an earthier grounding of tobacco, anise and leather.

90

28

California

Syrah

15,725

France

Full of the bright fruit typical of the vintage, this wine is made from 90% Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc. It's structured with still-young tannins and is dominated by red berry fruit, needing to age until 2021.

91

35

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

35

US

As with many of the Erath 2010 vineyard designates, this is strongly herbal. The notes of leaf and herb create somewhat unripe flavor impressions, with a touch of bitterness on the finish. The fruit just passes the ripeness of sweet tomatoes.

86

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

81,386

Spain

Clearly labeled as a medium-sweet wine, this wine's rather dry bouquet gives no hint of the soft, cloying palate to follow. This sweetness is more than medium to this taster, but it could be just the thing for guests who find normally dry wines puckery. —M.M.

81

7

Northern Spain

White Blend

125,779

US

An enormous, complex, brooding and extraordinary Pinot Noir, a blend of Bien Nacido and Gainey's Santa Rosa Hills vineyards. Opens with a blast of peppery, cherry fruit, with tobacco and minty overtones. The rich berry flavors in a creamy texture, with sweet oak tannins, feel ripe, plush and terrific in the mouth. Editors' Choice.

93

35

California

Pinot Noir

10,534

US

The reliable négociant winery scores once again on this bottling, which shows intriguing aromas of smoked plums, hoisin-marinated pork, cocoa powder, crushed pepper and ollallieberries. It's delicious once sipped, with pepper, boysenberries and a hickory wood character.

90

15

California

Syrah

102,263

Spain

Few wines offer as much as this for under $30, but this extracted, bullish Tempranillo blend is not for everyone. Blackberry, cola and savory herbal aromas are strong and pure. This feels wide and cushioned, yet is still a driller. Blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors finish rich and ripe. Drink through 2024.

93

28

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

76,543

US

Here's a good, dry and fairly complex Pinot Noir from the same estate as Calera's better and more expensive block bottings. It's light bodied and spicy, with earthy notes of tobacco, herbs, cherries and sandalwood. Drink now, after a good decanting.

89

35

California

Pinot Noir

19,151

Italy

Aromas of tilled earth, spice, leather, blue flowers and Mediterranean herbs lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot. The concentrated but polished palate offers a savory core of black cherry and red currant, while notes of bell pepper, mocha and baking spice provide backup. Supple tannins support the juicy flavors. Enjoy through 2017.

90

28

Tuscany

Red Blend

61,554

Italy

This sweet, frizzy wine opens with a dark ruby color and offers a veritable aromatic explosion. You get it all here: from blueberry and raspberry to sweet spice and cinnamon cream. From the Casorzo region of Piedmont, the wine is fresh and intensely fragrant. Pair it with cold cuts and salumi.

84

18

Piedmont

Red Blend

7,999

Argentina

Fresh, layered aromas of black fruits and licorice are appealing. The palate is full and offers kick, while flavors of berry and plum are fairly rich, spicy and honest for $9 Cabernet. A bit sticky and it falls off on the finish, but overall it's a nice value red.

87

9

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

114,791

Italy

This is a pleasant red wine from Piedmont in northern Italy made with Nebbiolo and Vespolina grapes for a clean delivery of berry, spice and cola aromas. The wine is tonic and fresh in the mouth with clean acidity and playful bite of exotic spice on the close.

88

40

Piedmont

Red Blend

87,702

US

This somewhat disjointed wine is laced tight with streaks of stem and herb. The light strawberry fruit flavors are accented with a touch of chocolate, presumably from barrel aging.

86

28

Oregon

Pinot Noir

13,307

US

Holding 42% Mourvèdre, 31% Cinsault and 27% Grenache, this full-bodied wine has aromas of peppery spices, herbs and jammy red and black fruit. Flavors are sweet and ripe, with restrained oak.

90

36

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

61,863

US

Near equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (14%), this wine is aromatically reserved, with notes of tire rubber, parsley, coffee and exotic spices. It's supple in feel, filled with coffee and cherry flavors. There's plenty interesting going on but the aromas and flavors seem disconnected.

87

25

Washington

Red Blend

94,237

US

Dramatic, powerful flavors of blackberries and cassis liqueur explode in this wine—the classic markers of great Cabernet Sauvignon. At the same time, it shows softly refined tannins that make it firm but drinkable now. With a long, spicy finish, it shows considerable complexity. Best now; it will gradually lose fruit for another 6–7 years.

94

100

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

120,232

US

This bottling offers plum and plump blackberry on the nose along with milk chocolate, leather and cedar. It's quite tight and tannic on the palate at first, but all the expected and delicious components are in place: tart blueberry, tobacco, coffee and hints of licorice and chocolate that will emerge emerge more with time.

90

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

23,372

Spain

Hefty and a tiny bit herbal on the nose, with tomato, red berry and spice aromas. The palate is perfectly formed and balanced, with roasted berry, smoked meat and earthy flavors. Turns juicy and dry on what amounts to a tight finish. Excellent modern Rioja to drink now through 2015.

92

33

Northern Spain

Red Blend

126,295

US

Roasted macadamia, toasted coconut and baked apple scents lead the nose of this wine from Santa Barbara County's first commercial vineyard. The palate is broad to start, with lemon curd, pear and almond flavors; but it centers on a flinty mineral character as it finishes.

92

40

California

Chardonnay

20,815

US

An aromatic, seductive wine, scented with smoke and chocolate, cedar and strawberry. Thick and chewy, with ripe raspberry fruit and a liquorous, barrel-inflected finish. This is a big wine for those who like sheer power, in both fruit and tannins.

91

23

Washington

Merlot

125,881

US

Dijon clones notwithstanding, this wine is buttery and oaky, emphasizing the flavors of barrel fermentation (in 40% new French oak). Apart from that, it shows moderate acids and a little heat in the finish.

87

30

Oregon

Chardonnay

92,637

Argentina

If you like big Malbecs, this blend of grapes from three elevations is up your alley. Graphite, blackberry, mocha and vanilla aromas are inviting, while the rich, sappy palate houses coffee, cooked berry and coconut flavors. It's oaky, ripe, heavy and full of power. Drink now–2016.

91

35

Mendoza Province

Malbec

17,779

US

Mourvèdre (45%), Grenache (31%) and Syrah (12%) make up the majority of this wine, which is fleshed out with Counoise, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul. Vibrant aromas of cracked pepper, raspberry, underbrush, dried violets, smoked meat and herb are followed by elegant yet still flavorful fruit and savory notes that show a pleasing tartness and generous mouthfeel.

92

60

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

76,625

France

With up to seven years' bottle aging, this is at a fine point between crispness and a fuller, more mature style. It is ripe with red fruits, cut with acidity and a hint of toastiness. Drink now.

90

60

Champagne

Champagne Blend

73,751

France

This is a fresh, strawberry-flavored wine with a crisp, dry aftertaste. An attractive tangy character gives life and brilliance. Ready to drink, it is a real apéritif wine.

89

23

Provence

Rosé

31,940

US

This Petit Verdot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend clearly wants some time in the cellar. Although it's extraordinarily rich with blackberries, black currants and violets, the tannin-acid structure is such that aging for at least ten years shouldn't be a problem.

90

65

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

100,337

US

There's a lot to like in this youthful, concentrated white, from its tartness of green apple and lime to its mineral-laden acidity. Full bodied, it never loses that sense of verve on the palate, which helps rein in the ripeness.

88

36

California

Chardonnay

39,922

US

Dry and soft, this is a pretty Merlot to drink with lusty fare, like barbecued pork and tri-tip. It has tannin-inspired flavors of black cherries, red currants, mocha, bacon and spice. Drink now.

84

20

California

Merlot

33,375

US

This ripe and rich wine has firm tannins and a smooth texture, making it a tasty match for rich protein dishes. It packs plump blackberry and juicy boysenberry flavors in a blend that tastes just slightly sweet, coating the palate and lingering on the finish.

87

22

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

24,029

US

Brisk and bright, this bottling showcases a more cutting expression of Merlot. Crisp black cherry and plum flavors are accented by bramble and a touch of sage. The finish lingers long, fringed by fine, firm tannins.

87

26

New York

Merlot

54,286

US

This single-block, one-barrel reserve is the best of the 2010 reserve Pinots from Coeur de Terre. It's medium ripe, with pretty accents of rose petals and milk chocolate, around raspberry fruit. Showing well already, it's a wine to drink young.

88

58

Oregon

Pinot Noir

34,507

US

This is the most accessible, most interesting and most compelling of Sbragia's new Cabernets. It's extraordinarily powerful in the potent, sweetly refined tannins and ripe flavors of blackberries and cassis, leading to a long, rich finish. You can drink it now, but it will age effortlessly for a good 8–10 years.

95

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

28,192

US

Notable for sheer deliciousness, the way you can't stop at one sip but want more. Soft and gentle, with just a touch of crispness and oak tannins, this Pinot's flavors star. Raspberries, cherries, cocoa, red licorice, cola, vanilla all mingle into some fabulously sweet confection that manages to finish thoroughly dry.

92

45

California

Pinot Noir

74,828

Italy

This release of Luca Sanjust's monumental Merlot is more subdued than the previous vintage, but what it lacks in intensity it makes up for in elegance. Instead of bursting red fruit and thick density, this feminine wine offers bite-size bursts of soft cherry, forest floor and toasted almond. It's smooth and supple in the mouth.

94

100

Tuscany

Merlot

32,207

US

This is rich and dense in blackberry and cherry jam, currant, mocha, anise and smoky cedar flavors. The mountain tannins are strong but refined, and the finish is long and spicy. It's a Bordeaux blend based on Cabernet Sauvignon, but be forewarned: It's high in alcohol.

93

90

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

12,866

US

What's so interesting about this wine is the savory minerality, racy acidity and extreme dryness that make it completely different from 99% of the Sauvignon Blancs in California. It's not without fruit. You'll find mouthwatering Meyer lemons, sweet Kaffir limes and spicy figs. Just beautiful, and a real sommelier's wine.

91

22

California

Sauvignon Blanc

101,059

US

A distinctive streak of cola runs through this wine, along with a mix of wild strawberries and spice. It's elegant and seamless, doing a lovely, gentle fade into a lightly spicy finish.

89

44

Oregon

Pinot Noir

36,928

Italy

Dark berry, chopped mint, sage, tobacco and a balsamic note are some of the aromas you'll find on this. Firmly structured and youthfully austere, the palate delivers red cherry, raspberry compote, anise and clove framed in vibrant acidity and tightly-woven tannins that give it a firm finish. It needs time to fully come together and develop complexity. Drink 2025–2043.

94

150

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

81,126

Italy

Dried black-skinned fruit, leather and a dash of Oriental spice unfold in the glass. The firm palate delivers raisin, mature blackcurrant and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins that grip the finish. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit is starting to dry up so drink soon.

87

19

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

44,821

US

Tart, acidic red fruit—pomegranate, sour raspberry—is given some sweet spice and sandalwood from barrel aging. The all-too-typical earthy/herbal aromas that plague so many Oregon Pinots are out in force. The wine sits in the mouth, sour and tight, without enough weight or texture to hint at future pleasure.

86

65

Oregon

Pinot Noir

5,024

US

There's a lot of lees influence on this wine, which gives it a sourdough taste and creamy mouthfeel. It's dense in tropical fruit, citrus, green apple and honey notes, with a touch of sweet, smoky oak. A dry, complex, multilayered wine, this will gain traction with 2–4 years in the cellar.

94

35

California

Chardonnay

12,937

Italy

This Amarone offers blackberry, plum, and chocolate flavors layered with licorice, black pepper and vanilla notes from the well-integrated oak. This is structured, but it also has finesse. Drink after 2016 for additional complexity.

90

60

Veneto

Red Blend

101,435

US

Aromatically unusual, this suggests raspberry jam, purple flowers, orange peel and manure. Flavors are tangy and almost seem to have a light spritz.

83

30

Washington

Grenache

92,560

US

There's no oak on this wine, but it sure doesn't lack in richness. Offers a blast of lemons, limes, pineapples, honeysuckle flowers, vanilla and smoky butter, brightened with crisp acidity. The grapes come from Yountville.

87

18

California

Sauvignon Blanc

123,941

France

This second wine of whites from both Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion is both rich and intensely crisp. It has a fine blend between great acidity and grapefruit fruit and a more tropical element. The tangy texture is taut with a mineral edge. Drink from 2020.

93

91

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

100,976

US

Another 100% Syrah from the producer aged in two-thirds new French oak for 18 months, this has a dullness around the fruit, a sourness almost, that is not otherwise sparked by its notes of meat and gunpowder.

85

62

California

Syrah

127,138

US

Apple and melon aromas are followed by medium-weight flavors. The concentration seems a bit watery in the midpalate but the variety is unmistakable and the balance is there.

86

10

Washington

Chardonnay

42,621

Italy

This opens with aromas that recall leafy underbrush, grilled porcini and mature dark-skinned fruit. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, coffee, sage and anise alongside tightly wound tannins that give it a firm finish.

89

80

Tuscany

Sangiovese

90,560

US

Fresh blackberry and cherry character is packed into this concentrated but rather soft and sweet wine. It has that signature wild berry aroma of the variety, then flavors are rich, the texture broad and the body full.

88

19

California

Zinfandel

57,632

France

This rosé needs to age. It has a zesty, crisp and mineral texture that is tight and nervy. As it softens, more red fruits will come to the front, although the structure will remain, making this a serious rosé for drinking with food.

92

29

Provence

Rosé

83,546

Germany

Bramble and dried herbs, pressed apple and peach notes blend elements of savory and sweet in this complex Spätlese. Shimmering lemon-lime acidity refreshes the midpalate, leaving lingering tones of finely crushed mineral.

90

33

Mosel

Riesling

90,287

France

Warm, shimmering notes of ripe pear fill nose and palate. This generous fruit is countered by citric freshness on this dry, almost slender wine that pulls off a lovely balance and softness without losing its definition.

91

50

Alsace

Pinot Gris

49,887

France

With just the right amount of bottle age, this is a vintage to drink now. It has light, sweet pastry flavors, some toast and yellow peach and strawberry flavors. Delicious, but not for keeping.

90

89

Champagne

Champagne Blend

43,916

US

This feral and gamy wine shows roast lamb, rosemary, dried fennel, rose petal and forest floor aromas on its dynamic nose. The palate leads with explosive acidity, before waves of Concord grape and blackberry flavor take hold. It's light on its feet but has some textural firmness, finishing on rosemary, lavender and game notes.

93

28

California

Syrah

108,161

US

This aromatic wine suggests green apple, tangerine and flowers. It drinks dry with stone fruit and citrus flavors that have a fleshy feel.

88

25

Washington

Riesling

81,023

US

This elegant Cabernet nicely threads the needle between fruit and herb, slaloming down the palate with a lingonberry here, a sprig of thyme there, underpinned with earth and chocolate. It's a wine that may be sipped and savored, offering subtle pleasures along the way.

90

20

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

92,804

US

This vineyard is far better known for Pinot Noir, although Failla has excelled with its Chardonnay. Novy's 2010 isn't particularly like Chardonnay. Too floral. Could almost be Viognier. Yet it's a fine wine, crisp and rich in orange, lime and honeysuckle flavors.

87

19

California

Chardonnay

120,691

US

From an estate-grown vineyard and blended with 18% Malbec, in addition to smaller percentages of Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine is crisp and edgy in red cherry and berry, with a layering of earthy fennel. Layered in fine-grained tannins, it finishes dense and seasoned in clove and cinnamon.

90

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

57,220

US

Spicy strawberry and cherry hover over forest floor and a tangle of tangy acidity that keeps this wine fresh and vibrantly compelling. Full bodied and robust, it maintains a balance in the glass, making it both food-friendly and an option on its own.

90

39

California

Pinot Noir

89,008

Italy

Perfumed red berry, blue flower, baking spice and balsamic aromas open this round, full-bodied red. The accessible palate offers wild cherry, crushed plum and cinnamon alongside soft tannins. Drink through 2016.

90

29

Tuscany

Red Blend

83,829

France

From a very fine vintage, this structured, tight while also fruity Champagne is poised and stylish. A creamy mousse balances the crisp texture and beautiful acidity. Red fruits and blood orange come through well at the end. It is ready to drink.

93

55

Champagne

Champagne Blend

124,958

US

The 2005 Doyenne Aix is 50% Cabernet, 48% Syrah and 2% Mourvèdre. The increased percentage of Syrah and the extra dollop of Mourvèdre ramps this up to a stiffer, more substantial wine than the 2004. It's a Cabernet-driven complement to the DeLille D2, replete with muscle and nerve. Dark and chewy, the wine has picked up a little Rhône-like savage-ness from the Mourvèdre, especially in the aroma. The tannins are chewy and a bit leafy, and need some airing out, but there's plenty of meaty flavor here.

89

38

Washington

Red Blend

77,810

US

Compiled from a half dozen vineyards scattered throughout the northern Willamette Valley. Firm, sculpted and dense, this has more grip and depth than might be expected at this price point. Each vineyard's grapes were separately fermented; the blending has pulled them all together with dark, plummy flavors, notes of raisin, baking spices and caramel, and a smooth, penetrating finish.

89

25

Oregon

Pinot Noir

97,153

US

A majority varietal with 10% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, this wine offers dusty tar, tobacco and chocolate around more succulent flavors of blackberry and black cherry. It finishes lean.

87

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

15,643

US

This gigantic Cabernet is not showing well now. The tannins are too strong, the fruit too fresh, sweet and direct in blackberries and cherries, the oak too unintegrated with everything else. It's like a bowl of ingredients that need to be cooked into a recipe. But the structure of tannins and acids is just fine, and while the alcohol is on the high side, the heat it gives is balanced into the overall mouthfeel. Give it 6–8 years to begin to come around.

92

80

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

95,896

US

Lots of ripe strawberries, raspberries and sweet smoky oak in this silky young Pinot Noir. It tastes a bit too extracted and jammy for subtlety, but sure does offer a mouthful of flavor.

87

50

California

Pinot Noir

15,799

US

This challenging island vineyard, planted in 2007, delivers a stunningly delicate but ripe wine, with aromas of smashed cranberry and strawberry pairing perfectly to sarsaparilla and sautéed oyster mushroom elements. The continually emerging palate shows dried citrus peels, iron and sour cherries, along with riper raspberry and pomegranate juice flavors and a spicy edge.

94

72

California

Pinot Noir

84,845

France

A bright and juicy wine, this has good potential. Its red-berry fruits are right up front along with some light tannins. Drink this fruity wine from 2018.

86

13

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

76,877

France

This wine has an austere character with a hint of tannins in its structure. Crisp apple backs up the bright luminous acidity. Almost startlingly fresh, it needs time in the bottle—drink from 2017.

92

25

Burgundy

Chardonnay

98,574

Italy

Here's a delicious Amarone, with aromas of spirit-soaked black cherry and spice. The palate is rich but refined, with succulent black cherry, raspberry and plum flavors all layered with nutmeg and white pepper accents.

92

52

Veneto

Red Blend

64,459

US

Soft red fruit adorns this light-bodied take on the variety. From the heart of the appellation, it has moderate acidity and a flavor profile characterized by rose petal, orange and cherry.

88

42

California

Pinot Noir

83,414

Italy

An attractive Cabernet Sauvignon, this opens with varietal aromas of cedar, red currants and tobacco while the palate offers dried black cherry, exotic spice and licorice. It's still tightly wound with firm but fine-grained tannins.

91

83

Tuscany

Cabernet Sauvignon

59,466

US

This blends 70% Zinfandel with 14% Petite Sirah, 6% Alicante Bouschet, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Carignane and 2% Viognier. It succeeds in its full embrace of juicy red berry and big tannin concentration, showing good structure and powerful waves of caramel and pie crust.

90

30

California

Red Blend

128,531

Argentina

Argentine Nebbiolo is a rarity, and for one to be this good is a blessing. Leather, dark berry, earth and citrus aromas are mellow and subdued, but the palate is full and forward, with baked berry, molasses and espresso flavors. This is tannic and chocolaty on the finish, with lasting sweetness.

89

65

Mendoza Province

Nebbiolo

11,146

Italy

French oak, coconut, underbrush and a balsamic aroma follow through to the full-bodied palate along with licorice, espresso, dried cherry and raw cranberry. Raspy tannins provide the assertive frame work and clench the finish. Give the tannins a few years to relax then drink to capture the remaining fruit.

89

95

Tuscany

Sangiovese

67,831

US

Rather full and deep in the nose. Some black fruit come across as being chunky but fresh. It’s quite the mouthful, with lots of oak in the backdrop providing a big serving of vanilla. Long, dry and oaky at the end. Interesting, though not overly complex or layered.

86

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

107,745

Italy

Summus is a beautiful Tuscan blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah that opens with a drying, dusty mineral feel followed by loads of plump, ripe fruit. Great care was executed in the clonal selection of Sangiovese and that variety delivers the wine's distinctive territoriality.

94

69

Tuscany

Red Blend