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
104,938	US	Clean, crisply defined green apple and pear fruit flavors anchor this high-acid Pinot Gris. A fine choice with cream-based sauces or seafood that needs something to cut through the flavor. More bottle age could round it out.	86	19	Oregon	Pinot Gris
34,176	US	Strong aromas of charred oak and equally boisterous smoked meat flavors give this wine a rowdy personality. It has medium body but full-throttle aromas like rubber tires and flavors like Concord grapes.	85	13	California	Red Blend
57,226	Italy	Aromas suggesting toast, hazelnut, camphor and mocha lead the nose. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe wild cherry, white pepper, grilled sage and anise alongside close-grained tannins that leave an assertive finish.	90	93	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
88,270	US	Exotic scents immediately characterize this wine as fascinating; weaving together incense, smoke, wild berry, baking spices and plum jam. Yet the wine retains a delicacy, lightness, its flavors based upon juicy acids rather than new oak. It showcases the fruit, and does so with grace and panache.	88	22	Oregon	Malbec
67,500	US	This is the winery's low production barrel selection reserve. It shows big, zingy acidity and spicy, jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries, and is totally dry. The alcohol is refreshingly low. Tastes a bit direct now. Give it until early 2011 to calm down.	87	55	California	Pinot Noir
89,325	US	Very soft, it feels like the vinous equivalent of a creampuff. The fruit is lightly tropical, with notes of caramel and banana, cut through with a streak of citrus and apple.	87	19	Washington	Chardonnay
45,793	US	A vineyard for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Allen is exquisitely detailed in this textured bottling that's weighty, with a tannin backdrop and replete with savory fruit. Wild strawberry, Bing cherry and black tea stand out, with an undercurrent of lushness that's hard to resist.	96	82	California	Pinot Noir
111,835	US	Delicious now, this has waves of blackberries, cherries, currants, dark chocolate, spices and oak. It seems almost sweet, but the finish is a swirl of dry tannins. Might develop over the long haul, and will it certainly last to 2015. Give it a few hours in the decanter.	91	45	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
105,218	France	Very light mango, pineapple and banana aromas are joined by flowers and minerals. Nutty notes are brought to the fore on the dry and stony palate. Finishes broad and long, with echos of the floral and mineral notes on the nose. Now it's pretty tight; best in 2002 and beyond.	92	85	Burgundy	Chardonnay
113,852	France	Paillard's crispest Chardonnay comes mainly from the Côte des Blancs. Offering great white fruit and bright apple flavors, this wine is also textured and mineral. It is beginning to mature, suggesting a touch of toastiness while the fruit remains. It finishes dry. Drink the wine now.	94	87	Champagne	Champagne Blend
54,427	US	Dense and juicy, this wine is abundant in black cherry, plum and chocolate that does a good job of reining in the sweetness of ripe fruit. Leathery and oaky on the palate, it needs time to open. After a mighty swirl in the glass, its medium body and lengthy finish will shine.	88	19	California	Merlot
13,196	US	Grape soda, prune, leather, graphite, dust and black tobacco blend into an intriguing nose on this estate Malbec from Paso's Eastside. It's a little rustic around the edges once sipped, but pleasantly so. The mouthfeel is soft, the flavors are peppery and the tannins and acidity are built to last.	86	28	California	Malbec
26,008	US	This wine is principally Cabernet Sauvignon (52%), Merlot (35%), along with dollops of Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Carmenère. The aromas show complexity, with notes of herb, pink peppercorn, dark fruit, coffee and wood spice. The flavors are supple and layered, with bright acidity and firm tannins providing the frame.	91	42	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
117,550	US	A unique blend of Pinot Gris, Muscat, Riesling and Gewürztraminer, it is—as its name suggests—quite floral, along with notes of lychee and white grapefruit. It drinks off dry, with a medium-bodied feel. Citrus and spice flavors carry through the finish.	88	12	Washington	White Blend
102,955	Spain	Berry and plum aromas start out aggressive before settling on earth tones and cinnamon spice notes. This feels juicy, ripe and well constructed. Flavors of raspberry, currant and plum are mildly peppery, while savory earth notes continue the wine's good vibes and solidity. Drink through 2020.	91	19	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
31,625	Italy	This blend of 75% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino opens with aromas that recall underbrush, woodland berries and tobacco leaf. The bright palate delivers tart sour cherry punctuated with white pepper and clove alongside supple tannins. It's already very drinkable so enjoy soon.	89	25	Tuscany	Red Blend
100,922	Australia	This simple, quaffable red is a solid introduction to the Wirra Wirra stable. Ribena-like cassis notes dominate, picking up hints of vanilla on the palate and finishing crisp and dry.	86	15	South Australia	Red Blend
9,835	US	Soft, ripe and thick, this is one of those Rhône-style Pinots that purists will find on the big side for a variety that's supposed to be silky and delicate. On the plus side, it's a dry, rich wine, with oodles of cherries, blackberries and cinnamon-spiced punch.	88	45	California	Pinot Noir
69,259	US	This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot offers aromas of cranberry, cherry, mesquite, vanilla and herb. The fruit flavors are sleek and elegant, lingering on the finish.	88	25	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
55,369	Argentina	Opaque in color, this saturated Malbec-led blend exhibits coconut and cola aromas along with fully ripe blackberry notes. This is massive in the mouth, with a solid foundation. Maximum berry expression and a jammy, deep-fruited finish give this power and content beyond its price point.	91	17	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
47,837	France	This crisp, dry style of Champagne with its tightly wound texture and acidity is deliciously balanced, showing just the hint of toasty maturity that lies behind the apple and citrus fruits. Relying on ripe fruit for its richness, the wine is on the cusp of drinkability. Ideally wait until 2017.	93	110	Champagne	Champagne Blend
96,620	France	A light, toffee-and-caramel-tinged red that seems to be fading. Some earth and cherry flavors provide for acceptable drinking now, but this wine is headed south. Get to it soon.	82	12	Provence	Rhône-style Red Blend
13,302	US	Made from a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon with a handful of Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine is on the cooler-climate side of the sensory equation, a note of pencil and olive here, a bit of juicy cranberry there. Chalky tannins complete the picture, the wine balanced and medium to light in weight.	90	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
69,965	US	Sourced from Les Collines vineyard, one of Walla Walla's best, this 100% Syrah opens with characteristic scents of smoke and bacon and black cherry. But in the mouth it has a syrupy flavor, somewhat medicinal, and dense tannins.	85	30	Washington	Syrah
54,789	US	A dramatic Cabernet that immediately impresses for power and voluptuous texture. Dazzles with waves of blackberries, cassis and chocolate, wrapped into the smoothest tannins you can imagine. Winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown made this lovely 100% Cabernet from fruit grown in a warmer region of the Vaca Mountains. Drink now–2019.	92	100	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
49,580	Argentina	This bold, burly wine has a pretty shine to it. Attractive honey, melon and buttered-toast aromas dance on the nose, and the creamy yet structured palate offers coconut and banana flavors along with proper acids. It's very much like the inaugural '99 wine, maybe a bit better balanced, but less concentrated. Regardless, it's still potent Chardonnay featuring plenty of high-grade oak.	89	32	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
94,696	US	A Riesling that's quite sweet, its best feature is its perfumed, flowery nose. It's tropical flavors come off as slightly too sweet, so try pairing it with a simple pear tart.	85	15	California	Riesling
79,129	US	This blend of Zin, Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre is sort of old fashioned, a dark, full-bodied wine whose berry fruitiness has an earthy, balsamic vinegar edge. It's tannic and slightly sweet.	84	17	California	Red Blend
71,026	France	Classic Sauternes, treading the fine line between sweetness and elegance. Initially, it seems to be dominated by the botrytis, but then sweet fruits also show, with ripe yellow fruits, honey and almonds, touched with citrus. As it develops, the wine will become richer and more intense.	93	110	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
126,922	France	An herbal wine, this is full of gooseberry and grapefruit flavors. It's tangy, tight with a steely texture and a strong mineral streak. The wine is fresh, fruity and ready to drink.	87	28	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
52,992	Italy	Here's a savory selection, offering earthy and balsamic aromas of underbrush, tobacco and Mediterranean herbs. The restrained palate reveals ripe plum, cassis and licorice notes layered with chewy tannins and a warm midpalate.	91	29	Tuscany	Red Blend
66,135	Spain	This is a neutral smelling bubbly with a distant hint of nectarine. It's foamy on the palate, with mild citrus flavors along with a touch of green. The finish feels o.k. but doesn't offer much additional flavor.	83	13	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
92,881	US	Delicious and deep, this full-bodied wine is comfortable in its own skin, showing spice and pencil-shaving aromas, rich black-cherry flavors, a broad texture and firm but polished tannins. It seems to gain power with each sip, and will be best after 2020.	92	95	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
116,779	Spain	Opaque in color, with reduced aromas of mushroom, rubber and so forth. But do not give up on this masculine bruiser; it will loosen up with air and offer plum, leather and chocolate flavors that are nothing short of excellent. And while it's a touch zesty at its core, the wine still mixes in enough coffee and richness to make it a modern-style success story.	92	92	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
54,665	US	This opens with vibrant aromas of green olive, herbs and fresh asparagus along with dark cherry. Not shy, the full-bodied, tightly wound flavors bring a core of dark fruit and savory flavors that persist on the finish.	92	35	Washington	Syrah
24,315	US	This blend of 59% Syrah, 21% Mourvèdre and 20% Grenache from the Sierra Foothills tastes a bit indistinct and slightly warm on the finish. It does deliver dark fruit flavors and plenty of vanilla-tinged oak. Drink now.	85	17	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
7,527	US	The last vintage that the Melvilles are pulling from this Los Alamos Valley vineyard, this wine shows a complex nose of lemon candy, dill and fresh oregano. There is plenty of tension and grip on the palate, thanks to the lime-pith flavors, but a show of white flowers like tuberose keeps it properly ripe.	92	24	California	Chardonnay
42,152	US	This is the winery's reserve bottling, representing the best five barrels of the vintage. Supple and refined, it frames its young berry fruit flavors in elegant tannins. Nicely focused and still a bit raw, this wine will reward some further years of aging.	91	70	Oregon	Pinot Noir
16,368	US	This bottling, which is balanced by 16% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot, rides the savory edge of the grape, with aromas of underbrush and dried herbs giving depth to the black-olive and black-currant aromas. The palate offers a mix of red and darker fruits, including cranberry, plum and blackberry, with touches of thyme and anise.	92	84	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
91,192	US	Continuing a long-running streak of excellence, the latest vintage of Eroica blends fruit from vineyards in the Lake Chelan, Yakima Valley, Royal Slope and Horse Heaven Hills regions. It's a rich mix of peach and papaya, creamy and slightly sweet (16.6 g/L). The citrusy acids keep a fine edge on the lush flavors.	92	20	Washington	Riesling
103,858	Spain	Like it's bigger sibling El Anejón, this Reserva from a warm vintage is almost one-quarter Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in addition to Tinto Fino (Tempranillo). The opening of burnt earth, brandied cherry, rubber and herbal aromas is distinct. This feels a bit tough and chewy, with boysenberry, cassis, vanilla-cream and herbal spice flavors. A fairly smooth finish is young and vital. This should improve with aging. Best from 2019–2026.	93	91	Northern Spain	Red Blend
60,472	Italy	Charred earth, smoke, roasted coffee bean and raisin aromas come together on this. The brawny palate offers prune, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside tightly packed tannins that leave a drying, rather astringent finish.	88	40	Veneto	Red Blend
44,256	France	Exquisitely fresh and fruity, this delicious rosé has crisp red currant fruits that are tangy, bright and tight. It is very refreshing now, although in a few months the almost shocking acidity will soften. Drink from mid-2016.	88	26	Loire Valley	Rosé
34,527	US	are starting to recognize Clarksburg, for growing some amazingly flavorful Chenin Blanc and Albarino, but if it's Chardonnay they want to grow, too, this wine won't help make the case. From the Wilson Vineyard, it's sweet and uncomplicated and tasting a bit burnt.	83	13	California	Chardonnay
63,172	US	Almost as good as some of the winery's best single-vineyard bottlings, this wine has a tremendous nose that offers tangerine blossom, pink grapefruit skin, sea salt and toast around a line of graphite. The palate presents juicy nectarine and ripe citrus alongside yeasty sizzle, salt and a chalk minerality.	92	35	California	Chardonnay
86,924	US	A big, fleshy blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre that serves up rich, chewy tannins supporting ripe plum, black-cherry, herb and toast flavors. Moderate and elegant on the finish.	88	25	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
13,287	Italy	This 100% Sangiovese opens with aromas of plum, wild berry, grilled herb and a menthol note. The structured palate offers ripe black cherry, mint and ground white pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2016–2020.	90	45	Tuscany	Sangiovese
115,244	US	This wine makes reference to certain vineyards in France's cult Côte-Rôtie. The flavors are immaculate, suggesting fully ripened blackberries and currants, grilled wild mushrooms, black pepper and sweet oak. The tannins are thick and tough, but beautiful enough to warrant aging. One troubling aspect is acidity. It's very strong, and may take some time to smoothen out.	88	45	California	Syrah
67,988	US	This is a generous, likable Syrah for drinking soon. It's dark in color, full-bodied and dry, with ripe flavors of blackberries, plums, cola, anise, sandalwood and peppery spices. The soft tannins help the wine finish rich and silky.	89	35	California	Syrah
94,039	Argentina	Aromas of cherry Lifesaver and red currant are medicinal. This has a thick, sticky, cough-syrup mouthfeel and dark, medicinal flavors of stewed plum, burnt brown sugar and crème de cassis. Heat and sticky grab define the finish on this sweet Malbec.	85	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
94,372	France	This smooth and ripe wine is full of dark berry fruit and layered with tannins that will allow it to age. Although rich with black plum flavors, it's balanced with acidity. Fine and ageworthy, it will be ready to drink from 2021.	90	16	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
91,132	US	Vanilla, wood spice, herb and plum aromas are followed by soft, silky purple-fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze on the finish.	88	55	Washington	Malbec
127,800	Italy	Bright and intense berry aromas lead into a tart palate that runs heavy with pie cherry and leather. It's probably a tad too tight, tart and hard to merit higher, but with food it should do the trick. Some dark black coffee notes on the finish add to the wine's drying character.	85	18	Tuscany	Sangiovese
119,596	Portugal	This is a delicious, fruity wine, full of black fruits and soft tannins. The wine is forward, and ripe, and demands to be drunk now. Have it with a barbecue.	87	15	Douro	Portuguese Red
25,798	US	A forest-like earthiness mingles with yeasty baked bread aromas in this soft, well-built Mourvèdre- and Petite Sirah-dominant field blend. Fig, black pepper and tar flavors show through a tightly knit foundation of powerful tannin and texture, seasoned with Asian spice.	93	45	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
96,905	US	Coming from a reliable vineyard in the Los Alamos Valley, this wine presents aromas of dried violet, blackberry, leather and espresso. Brooding dried-cherry fruit directs the palate, which benefits further from roasted game and crushed oregano and thyme. The tannins are still prominent.	88	42	California	Syrah
91,025	US	Grenache, which accounts for 31% of the blend, dominates the flavor, giving it the pure essence of red cherries. There's also a lot of Syrah, which brings darker tones as well as tannic weight and depth. It's quite a good wine, and shows mastery of the blend, with grapes coming from all over Central and Northern California. Drink now.	88	38	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
82,386	Portugal	A wine that is dominated by the floral character of Touriga Nacional, this is a dense and dry at this young stage. It has a dry, firm character, with the fruit still firmly masked by tannins. Give it until 2017 before drinking.	86	13	Douro	Portuguese Red
104,640	US	This Viognier shows off the variety's characteristic tropical fruit, honeysuckle and apricot flavors, with an oaky finish and a trace of honey. There's a bit of overripeness on this lush, soft wine, but the finish is dry.	86	26	California	Viognier
115,477	France	Anne-Marie and Jean-Guy Todeschini started a revolution here and at Château Mangot and sons Karl and Yann (mid-Millennials) are moving it on. They use Jean-Pierre Cousinié's terroir analysis (look it up), no pesticides, experiment with no sulfur and are changing the way their terroir talks to the wine. This vintage is a rich wine with attractive black currant fruit and fine acidity. With structured tannins and light spice, it is fruity, juicy and will be ready to drink from 2018.	90	18	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
25,719	France	Simply fruity Bordeaux. It has signs of wood and black currant fruit along with acidity and a light layer of tannin. Drink now.	84	25	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
23,473	France	The ultra-steep Kirchberg de Barr vineyards can give ripe wines such as this from its great exposure. The wine has a ripe character, the yellow fruits cut through with lively acidity, a perfumed character. Fruity, likely to age over the next 3–5 years.	91	38	Alsace	Riesling
102,768	US	A layering of 100% new French oak takes center stage in this wine, which is leathery and rustic. Black currant and tight-grain tannin compete for attention atop a noticeable seasoning of dried herb.	86	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
101,095	US	Big-time tannins make this blend of all five classic Bordeaux varieties tight in character. Underneath the astringency are intense flavors of blackberries, cherries and currants that are liberally oaked. Dry and refined, the wine will develop bottle complexity after 2018.	91	52	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
80,325	Argentina	Floral red-berry aromas come with a note of bath soap. A heavy palate feels buttery, while woody blackberry and plum flavors finish solid but a touch bitter, with an echo of floral black cherry.	85	13	Mendoza Province	Malbec
71,758	US	Juicy and smoky, this robust wine is thickly textured and earthy in dusty dried herb. Blackberry, tar and leather provide ample additional intrigue, with a pleasing taste of strawberry jam and supportive, toasty oak.	90	50	California	Merlot
61,605	France	The wine has all the right crispness and steeliness of a Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay. It also has warmth, yellow fruits along with a touch of apple. That makes a wine that is full-bodied while not missing out on a tight, very fresh aftertaste.	90	50	Champagne	Chardonnay
127,015	Italy	Enticing floral scents of rose and iris mingle with red fruit and aromatic herbs on this stunning wine. The elegant, structured palate doles out strawberry, sour cherry, clove and white pepper alongside bright acidity while noble, refined tannins provide the backbone. Give this a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2020 through 2028.	93	180	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
106,446	Italy	The name of the wine is an old word used to measure fields, and reflects the Gallo (no connection with the California winery) family's use of traditional ideas and techniques at Vie de Romans. This wine has full, ripe fruit, soft and with layers of attractive wood and vanilla flavors.	87	28	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
63,004	Germany	Ripe berries and violets scent this heady, perfumed Riesling. The palate is rich and confectionery in style with candied cherry and honey notes that linger amidst a dusty, earthy backdrop of crushed stones and minerals. It's a brisk, but slightly unbalanced wine, yet refreshing through the finish.	85	14	Mosel	Riesling
108,727	Spain	This is a concentrated bruiser from a ripe warm vintage. Aromas of cheesy oak, vanilla, maple and blackberry require as much air as possible. Saturated, heavy and jammy on the palate, this pounds the palate with rugged tannins. Flavors of blackberry, prune and chocolate finish thick, chewy and grabby. This is not about elegance—it's all about power and concentration. Drink through 2025.	92	33	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
95,754	US	The recent vintages of Rex Hill Pinots tend to be big, ripe wines, at times just on the border of raisiny, with fleshy, effusive fruit flavors matched to plenty of toasty oak. Despite the high alcohol, these are enjoyable and even seductive wines. The red fruit flavors are sharp and angular, with spicy tobacco and pepper highlights.	89	42	Oregon	Pinot Noir
24,187	US	With 6 Rhône varieties, including Viognier, this is a fresh, fruity wine meant to be consumed within the next five years. It's strong in cherry, blackberry and other berry flavors, with the smoky vanilla of oak.	87	40	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
47,469	France	The characteristic 2014 acidity makes a lovely lemony splash in the center of this dry, refreshing wine. Lemon freshness rises from the glass, offering lots of verve and a lip-smacking finish.	89	26	Alsace	Riesling
106,145	US	Although slightly off dry, it retains excellent tension and minerality. Pear, peach and pineapple fruit flavors combine in an elegant and long-lasting wine.	90	15	Washington	Riesling
96,775	Spain	Leather, cheesy oak, baked raspberry and mild herbal notes create a good bouquet. This is somewhat raw, choppy and pinched in feel, while flavors of loamy black fruits hint at prune. Finishing flavors of coffee and spice are offset by residual juicy acidity.	88	18	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
70,466	US	Demure on the nose with hints of dust, smoke and dried herbs, this is a dry, decidedly savory style of Sauvignon Blanc. It's crisp and spry on the palate with pleasant lemon-lime flavors, but finishes briskly.	84	16	New York	Sauvignon Blanc
41,259	US	Maybe a tad off the pace from the excellent 2008, but still a wonderfully rich, complex wine. Pale in color, it tastes fresh and lively, with raspberry and cherry sour candy flavors accompanied by a burst of zesty acidity. Enjoyable now, and should gain bottle complexities over the next six years.	91	65	California	Pinot Noir
97,610	US	The recent vintages from this Santa Maria-based winery of actress Challen Cates and winemaker Kevin Law are some of the most impressive wines out there. This is dark in the glass, with a rich bouquet of cinnamon-clove foam, black plum pudding and hot pastry. It hits the palate with panache and power, showing allspice, dried ginger and sharp cola notes atop rich black cherry fruit.	94	65	California	Pinot Noir
122,447	Argentina	Red berry and cola aromas come with a cool menthol note. It feels chunky and jammy; the moderate-to-soft acidity creates a rubbery palate, with cherry and plum flavors. The finish turns sweet like caramel and slightly stewed.	87	12	Mendoza Province	Malbec
21,937	Italy	This wonderful ruby-colored Riserva delivers notes of ripe cherry, milk chocolate, herbs and pipe tobacco. It has loads of zest and pizzazz, with lingering spice tones, solid structure and silky tannins. It presents a complete and very pretty package.	90	25	Tuscany	Sangiovese
23,102	US	An unusual blend of 59% Sauvignon Blanc and 41% Chardonnay, this wine opens with a creamy mousse and flavors of ripe apple. Crisp, soft and medium bodied, it's textured and good at hiding the larger amount of SB, resembling more closely a traditional blanc de blancs.	88	20	California	Sparkling Blend
124,467	Argentina	Fresh like a peach on the nose, with a bit of warm radiator dust. Flavors of lemon and green apple are narrow, and the mouthfeel is limited and indicates that the lifespan of the wine may be short. Citric on the finish, and overall there's just not a lot going on here.	83	10	Mendoza Province	Sauvignon Blanc
91,403	Italy	Made with organically farmed grapes, this pretty Pinot Grigio offers floral aromas of white spring flowers along with creamy green apple and citrus notes. It has crisp, clean finish. Sip as an apéritif or pair with lightly seasoned fish dishes.	86	11	Veneto	Pinot Grigio
83,958	US	Tasty fresh fruit, leaning toward grapefruit and pineapple, peach and lemon. Zesty and forward, it refreshes rather than fatigues the palate, and is perfect for sipping on a spring afternoon. Best Buy.	87	11	Washington	Chardonnay
107,250	US	Peppery and beefy in aroma, this wine is heavy on the savory components and rather lean on fruit flavors.	85	31	California	Barbera
7,540	US	Freshly acidic and jammy in blackberry, cherry and raspberry flavors, this is one of the fruitier Napa Cabs available. It's at its best now, so drink up with a nice steak.	87	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
114,625	Spain	Clean, fruity and solid smelling, with a fresh, lightweight palate housing flavors of ginger, lime, lemongrass and powdered sugar. Easy on the finish. Textbook quaffing Cava if you like it a little sweet.	86	10	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
119,627	US	In the blend of this intensely fragrant young wine is 14% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. I like the complexity, the way the primary fruits mix in unusual notes of pineapple along with the black cherry. It's resonant and tangy, with good, long flavors and lots of new oak. This was a year of winemaker transition, and may be the last of the real chocolaty wines from Northstar. Give this plenty of airing, or cellar it for another 3–4 years.	92	41	Washington	Merlot
58,209	US	This excellent red is 75% Cabernet Franc, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. O•S generally produces one of the best Francs in Washington, lifted and intense, occasionally a bit high-toned, but always packed with juicy red fruits and barrel highlights of coffee and tobacco.	91	30	Washington	Cabernet Franc
67,668	Italy	This opens with aromas that recall weedy underbrush, crushed dill, camphor, saline, hay and a hint of orange rind. The evolved palate offers roasted coffee bean, licorice and a confectionary note but it lacks fruit richness. Astringent but fleeting tannins dry out the finish.	85	50	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
92,535	US	Balletto's style is typically earlier picked, drier and more acidic and lower in alcohol than many other Russian River Pinots. The 2007 is quite a good wine along those lines. The great structure houses flavors of currants, Dr. Pepper cola and spice, while the firm tannins give a chewy leathery feel. Should develop through 2013.	89	24	California	Pinot Noir
79,172	US	This wine is a blend of Malbec (69%) and Syrah. Aromas of plum and spice lead to a plump, flavorful palate full of fruit flavors.	88	15	Washington	Red Blend
100,707	France	This is a spicy wine, with balanced wood, yellow-fruit flavors and acidity that cuts through the spice and ripeness. A zing of citrus finishes this attractive wine in style.	89	30	Burgundy	Chardonnay
127,417	US	You'd likely never peg this as either Grenache or Alexander Valley. With a light, crisp mouthfeel and pure flavors of cherries and pomegrantes, it's likeable for its dry silkiness, and ready to drink now.	88	30	California	Grenache
120,722	US	The flavors in this Merlot are exceptionally ripe with cherries, red currants, red plums, mocha and new oak, and the tannins are rich and refined. High alcohol gives it a heat that makes it uncomfortable.	87	50	California	Merlot
61,547	US	You get what you pay for in this crisp, savory Sauvignon Blanc. It's tart and clean, with fruity flavors of pineapple, lemon and lime juices that finish a little sweet.	84	13	California	Sauvignon Blanc
16,262	France	The wine is all spice and sweet fruits. It has a honeyed character that gives the wine softness while also showing a dry core. The wine is rounded now and ready to drink.	86	30	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
67,326	US	Here's a textbook California Chardonnay made in a ripe, oaky style that pleases for its richness. The pineapple pie flavors have a toasted meringue edge, and the finish is dry and spicy.	87	28	California	Chardonnay
45,543	US	This wine combines 38% Cabernet Sauvignon with 35% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, with fruit from Stagecoach and Alta vineyards contributing to the mix. Dusty tannin and a weight of leather saddle permeate the nose and palate, with graphite puncturing through the soft texture and finish.	90	54	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend

104,938

US

Clean, crisply defined green apple and pear fruit flavors anchor this high-acid Pinot Gris. A fine choice with cream-based sauces or seafood that needs something to cut through the flavor. More bottle age could round it out.

86

19

Oregon

Pinot Gris

34,176

US

Strong aromas of charred oak and equally boisterous smoked meat flavors give this wine a rowdy personality. It has medium body but full-throttle aromas like rubber tires and flavors like Concord grapes.

85

13

California

Red Blend

57,226

Italy

Aromas suggesting toast, hazelnut, camphor and mocha lead the nose. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe wild cherry, white pepper, grilled sage and anise alongside close-grained tannins that leave an assertive finish.

90

93

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

88,270

US

Exotic scents immediately characterize this wine as fascinating; weaving together incense, smoke, wild berry, baking spices and plum jam. Yet the wine retains a delicacy, lightness, its flavors based upon juicy acids rather than new oak. It showcases the fruit, and does so with grace and panache.

88

22

Oregon

Malbec

67,500

US

This is the winery's low production barrel selection reserve. It shows big, zingy acidity and spicy, jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries, and is totally dry. The alcohol is refreshingly low. Tastes a bit direct now. Give it until early 2011 to calm down.

87

55

California

Pinot Noir

89,325

US

Very soft, it feels like the vinous equivalent of a creampuff. The fruit is lightly tropical, with notes of caramel and banana, cut through with a streak of citrus and apple.

87

19

Washington

Chardonnay

45,793

US

A vineyard for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Allen is exquisitely detailed in this textured bottling that's weighty, with a tannin backdrop and replete with savory fruit. Wild strawberry, Bing cherry and black tea stand out, with an undercurrent of lushness that's hard to resist.

96

82

California

Pinot Noir

111,835

US

Delicious now, this has waves of blackberries, cherries, currants, dark chocolate, spices and oak. It seems almost sweet, but the finish is a swirl of dry tannins. Might develop over the long haul, and will it certainly last to 2015. Give it a few hours in the decanter.

91

45

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

105,218

France

Very light mango, pineapple and banana aromas are joined by flowers and minerals. Nutty notes are brought to the fore on the dry and stony palate. Finishes broad and long, with echos of the floral and mineral notes on the nose. Now it's pretty tight; best in 2002 and beyond.

92

85

Burgundy

Chardonnay

113,852

France

Paillard's crispest Chardonnay comes mainly from the Côte des Blancs. Offering great white fruit and bright apple flavors, this wine is also textured and mineral. It is beginning to mature, suggesting a touch of toastiness while the fruit remains. It finishes dry. Drink the wine now.

94

87

Champagne

Champagne Blend

54,427

US

Dense and juicy, this wine is abundant in black cherry, plum and chocolate that does a good job of reining in the sweetness of ripe fruit. Leathery and oaky on the palate, it needs time to open. After a mighty swirl in the glass, its medium body and lengthy finish will shine.

88

19

California

Merlot

13,196

US

Grape soda, prune, leather, graphite, dust and black tobacco blend into an intriguing nose on this estate Malbec from Paso's Eastside. It's a little rustic around the edges once sipped, but pleasantly so. The mouthfeel is soft, the flavors are peppery and the tannins and acidity are built to last.

86

28

California

Malbec

26,008

US

This wine is principally Cabernet Sauvignon (52%), Merlot (35%), along with dollops of Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Carmenère. The aromas show complexity, with notes of herb, pink peppercorn, dark fruit, coffee and wood spice. The flavors are supple and layered, with bright acidity and firm tannins providing the frame.

91

42

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

117,550

US

A unique blend of Pinot Gris, Muscat, Riesling and Gewürztraminer, it is—as its name suggests—quite floral, along with notes of lychee and white grapefruit. It drinks off dry, with a medium-bodied feel. Citrus and spice flavors carry through the finish.

88

12

Washington

White Blend

102,955

Spain

Berry and plum aromas start out aggressive before settling on earth tones and cinnamon spice notes. This feels juicy, ripe and well constructed. Flavors of raspberry, currant and plum are mildly peppery, while savory earth notes continue the wine's good vibes and solidity. Drink through 2020.

91

19

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

31,625

Italy

This blend of 75% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino opens with aromas that recall underbrush, woodland berries and tobacco leaf. The bright palate delivers tart sour cherry punctuated with white pepper and clove alongside supple tannins. It's already very drinkable so enjoy soon.

89

25

Tuscany

Red Blend

100,922

Australia

This simple, quaffable red is a solid introduction to the Wirra Wirra stable. Ribena-like cassis notes dominate, picking up hints of vanilla on the palate and finishing crisp and dry.

86

15

South Australia

Red Blend

9,835

US

Soft, ripe and thick, this is one of those Rhône-style Pinots that purists will find on the big side for a variety that's supposed to be silky and delicate. On the plus side, it's a dry, rich wine, with oodles of cherries, blackberries and cinnamon-spiced punch.

88

45

California

Pinot Noir

69,259

US

This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot offers aromas of cranberry, cherry, mesquite, vanilla and herb. The fruit flavors are sleek and elegant, lingering on the finish.

88

25

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

55,369

Argentina

Opaque in color, this saturated Malbec-led blend exhibits coconut and cola aromas along with fully ripe blackberry notes. This is massive in the mouth, with a solid foundation. Maximum berry expression and a jammy, deep-fruited finish give this power and content beyond its price point.

91

17

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

47,837

France

This crisp, dry style of Champagne with its tightly wound texture and acidity is deliciously balanced, showing just the hint of toasty maturity that lies behind the apple and citrus fruits. Relying on ripe fruit for its richness, the wine is on the cusp of drinkability. Ideally wait until 2017.

93

110

Champagne

Champagne Blend

96,620

France

A light, toffee-and-caramel-tinged red that seems to be fading. Some earth and cherry flavors provide for acceptable drinking now, but this wine is headed south. Get to it soon.

82

12

Provence

Rhône-style Red Blend

13,302

US

Made from a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon with a handful of Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine is on the cooler-climate side of the sensory equation, a note of pencil and olive here, a bit of juicy cranberry there. Chalky tannins complete the picture, the wine balanced and medium to light in weight.

90

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

69,965

US

Sourced from Les Collines vineyard, one of Walla Walla's best, this 100% Syrah opens with characteristic scents of smoke and bacon and black cherry. But in the mouth it has a syrupy flavor, somewhat medicinal, and dense tannins.

85

30

Washington

Syrah

54,789

US

A dramatic Cabernet that immediately impresses for power and voluptuous texture. Dazzles with waves of blackberries, cassis and chocolate, wrapped into the smoothest tannins you can imagine. Winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown made this lovely 100% Cabernet from fruit grown in a warmer region of the Vaca Mountains. Drink now–2019.

92

100

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

49,580

Argentina

This bold, burly wine has a pretty shine to it. Attractive honey, melon and buttered-toast aromas dance on the nose, and the creamy yet structured palate offers coconut and banana flavors along with proper acids. It's very much like the inaugural '99 wine, maybe a bit better balanced, but less concentrated. Regardless, it's still potent Chardonnay featuring plenty of high-grade oak.

89

32

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

94,696

US

A Riesling that's quite sweet, its best feature is its perfumed, flowery nose. It's tropical flavors come off as slightly too sweet, so try pairing it with a simple pear tart.

85

15

California

Riesling

79,129

US

This blend of Zin, Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre is sort of old fashioned, a dark, full-bodied wine whose berry fruitiness has an earthy, balsamic vinegar edge. It's tannic and slightly sweet.

84

17

California

Red Blend

71,026

France

Classic Sauternes, treading the fine line between sweetness and elegance. Initially, it seems to be dominated by the botrytis, but then sweet fruits also show, with ripe yellow fruits, honey and almonds, touched with citrus. As it develops, the wine will become richer and more intense.

93

110

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

126,922

France

An herbal wine, this is full of gooseberry and grapefruit flavors. It's tangy, tight with a steely texture and a strong mineral streak. The wine is fresh, fruity and ready to drink.

87

28

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

52,992

Italy

Here's a savory selection, offering earthy and balsamic aromas of underbrush, tobacco and Mediterranean herbs. The restrained palate reveals ripe plum, cassis and licorice notes layered with chewy tannins and a warm midpalate.

91

29

Tuscany

Red Blend

66,135

Spain

This is a neutral smelling bubbly with a distant hint of nectarine. It's foamy on the palate, with mild citrus flavors along with a touch of green. The finish feels o.k. but doesn't offer much additional flavor.

83

13

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

92,881

US

Delicious and deep, this full-bodied wine is comfortable in its own skin, showing spice and pencil-shaving aromas, rich black-cherry flavors, a broad texture and firm but polished tannins. It seems to gain power with each sip, and will be best after 2020.

92

95

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

116,779

Spain

Opaque in color, with reduced aromas of mushroom, rubber and so forth. But do not give up on this masculine bruiser; it will loosen up with air and offer plum, leather and chocolate flavors that are nothing short of excellent. And while it's a touch zesty at its core, the wine still mixes in enough coffee and richness to make it a modern-style success story.

92

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

54,665

US

This opens with vibrant aromas of green olive, herbs and fresh asparagus along with dark cherry. Not shy, the full-bodied, tightly wound flavors bring a core of dark fruit and savory flavors that persist on the finish.

92

35

Washington

Syrah

24,315

US

This blend of 59% Syrah, 21% Mourvèdre and 20% Grenache from the Sierra Foothills tastes a bit indistinct and slightly warm on the finish. It does deliver dark fruit flavors and plenty of vanilla-tinged oak. Drink now.

85

17

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

7,527

US

The last vintage that the Melvilles are pulling from this Los Alamos Valley vineyard, this wine shows a complex nose of lemon candy, dill and fresh oregano. There is plenty of tension and grip on the palate, thanks to the lime-pith flavors, but a show of white flowers like tuberose keeps it properly ripe.

92

24

California

Chardonnay

42,152

US

This is the winery's reserve bottling, representing the best five barrels of the vintage. Supple and refined, it frames its young berry fruit flavors in elegant tannins. Nicely focused and still a bit raw, this wine will reward some further years of aging.

91

70

Oregon

Pinot Noir

16,368

US

This bottling, which is balanced by 16% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot, rides the savory edge of the grape, with aromas of underbrush and dried herbs giving depth to the black-olive and black-currant aromas. The palate offers a mix of red and darker fruits, including cranberry, plum and blackberry, with touches of thyme and anise.

92

84

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

91,192

US

Continuing a long-running streak of excellence, the latest vintage of Eroica blends fruit from vineyards in the Lake Chelan, Yakima Valley, Royal Slope and Horse Heaven Hills regions. It's a rich mix of peach and papaya, creamy and slightly sweet (16.6 g/L). The citrusy acids keep a fine edge on the lush flavors.

92

20

Washington

Riesling

103,858

Spain

Like it's bigger sibling El Anejón, this Reserva from a warm vintage is almost one-quarter Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in addition to Tinto Fino (Tempranillo). The opening of burnt earth, brandied cherry, rubber and herbal aromas is distinct. This feels a bit tough and chewy, with boysenberry, cassis, vanilla-cream and herbal spice flavors. A fairly smooth finish is young and vital. This should improve with aging. Best from 2019–2026.

93

91

Northern Spain

Red Blend

60,472

Italy

Charred earth, smoke, roasted coffee bean and raisin aromas come together on this. The brawny palate offers prune, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside tightly packed tannins that leave a drying, rather astringent finish.

88

40

Veneto

Red Blend

44,256

France

Exquisitely fresh and fruity, this delicious rosé has crisp red currant fruits that are tangy, bright and tight. It is very refreshing now, although in a few months the almost shocking acidity will soften. Drink from mid-2016.

88

26

Loire Valley

Rosé

34,527

US

are starting to recognize Clarksburg, for growing some amazingly flavorful Chenin Blanc and Albarino, but if it's Chardonnay they want to grow, too, this wine won't help make the case. From the Wilson Vineyard, it's sweet and uncomplicated and tasting a bit burnt.

83

13

California

Chardonnay

63,172

US

Almost as good as some of the winery's best single-vineyard bottlings, this wine has a tremendous nose that offers tangerine blossom, pink grapefruit skin, sea salt and toast around a line of graphite. The palate presents juicy nectarine and ripe citrus alongside yeasty sizzle, salt and a chalk minerality.

92

35

California

Chardonnay

86,924

US

A big, fleshy blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre that serves up rich, chewy tannins supporting ripe plum, black-cherry, herb and toast flavors. Moderate and elegant on the finish.

88

25

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

13,287

Italy

This 100% Sangiovese opens with aromas of plum, wild berry, grilled herb and a menthol note. The structured palate offers ripe black cherry, mint and ground white pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2016–2020.

90

45

Tuscany

Sangiovese

115,244

US

This wine makes reference to certain vineyards in France's cult Côte-Rôtie. The flavors are immaculate, suggesting fully ripened blackberries and currants, grilled wild mushrooms, black pepper and sweet oak. The tannins are thick and tough, but beautiful enough to warrant aging. One troubling aspect is acidity. It's very strong, and may take some time to smoothen out.

88

45

California

Syrah

67,988

US

This is a generous, likable Syrah for drinking soon. It's dark in color, full-bodied and dry, with ripe flavors of blackberries, plums, cola, anise, sandalwood and peppery spices. The soft tannins help the wine finish rich and silky.

89

35

California

Syrah

94,039

Argentina

Aromas of cherry Lifesaver and red currant are medicinal. This has a thick, sticky, cough-syrup mouthfeel and dark, medicinal flavors of stewed plum, burnt brown sugar and crème de cassis. Heat and sticky grab define the finish on this sweet Malbec.

85

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

94,372

France

This smooth and ripe wine is full of dark berry fruit and layered with tannins that will allow it to age. Although rich with black plum flavors, it's balanced with acidity. Fine and ageworthy, it will be ready to drink from 2021.

90

16

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

91,132

US

Vanilla, wood spice, herb and plum aromas are followed by soft, silky purple-fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze on the finish.

88

55

Washington

Malbec

127,800

Italy

Bright and intense berry aromas lead into a tart palate that runs heavy with pie cherry and leather. It's probably a tad too tight, tart and hard to merit higher, but with food it should do the trick. Some dark black coffee notes on the finish add to the wine's drying character.

85

18

Tuscany

Sangiovese

119,596

Portugal

This is a delicious, fruity wine, full of black fruits and soft tannins. The wine is forward, and ripe, and demands to be drunk now. Have it with a barbecue.

87

15

Douro

Portuguese Red

25,798

US

A forest-like earthiness mingles with yeasty baked bread aromas in this soft, well-built Mourvèdre- and Petite Sirah-dominant field blend. Fig, black pepper and tar flavors show through a tightly knit foundation of powerful tannin and texture, seasoned with Asian spice.

93

45

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

96,905

US

Coming from a reliable vineyard in the Los Alamos Valley, this wine presents aromas of dried violet, blackberry, leather and espresso. Brooding dried-cherry fruit directs the palate, which benefits further from roasted game and crushed oregano and thyme. The tannins are still prominent.

88

42

California

Syrah

91,025

US

Grenache, which accounts for 31% of the blend, dominates the flavor, giving it the pure essence of red cherries. There's also a lot of Syrah, which brings darker tones as well as tannic weight and depth. It's quite a good wine, and shows mastery of the blend, with grapes coming from all over Central and Northern California. Drink now.

88

38

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

82,386

Portugal

A wine that is dominated by the floral character of Touriga Nacional, this is a dense and dry at this young stage. It has a dry, firm character, with the fruit still firmly masked by tannins. Give it until 2017 before drinking.

86

13

Douro

Portuguese Red

104,640

US

This Viognier shows off the variety's characteristic tropical fruit, honeysuckle and apricot flavors, with an oaky finish and a trace of honey. There's a bit of overripeness on this lush, soft wine, but the finish is dry.

86

26

California

Viognier

115,477

France

Anne-Marie and Jean-Guy Todeschini started a revolution here and at Château Mangot and sons Karl and Yann (mid-Millennials) are moving it on. They use Jean-Pierre Cousinié's terroir analysis (look it up), no pesticides, experiment with no sulfur and are changing the way their terroir talks to the wine. This vintage is a rich wine with attractive black currant fruit and fine acidity. With structured tannins and light spice, it is fruity, juicy and will be ready to drink from 2018.

90

18

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

25,719

France

Simply fruity Bordeaux. It has signs of wood and black currant fruit along with acidity and a light layer of tannin. Drink now.

84

25

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

23,473

France

The ultra-steep Kirchberg de Barr vineyards can give ripe wines such as this from its great exposure. The wine has a ripe character, the yellow fruits cut through with lively acidity, a perfumed character. Fruity, likely to age over the next 3–5 years.

91

38

Alsace

Riesling

102,768

US

A layering of 100% new French oak takes center stage in this wine, which is leathery and rustic. Black currant and tight-grain tannin compete for attention atop a noticeable seasoning of dried herb.

86

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

101,095

US

Big-time tannins make this blend of all five classic Bordeaux varieties tight in character. Underneath the astringency are intense flavors of blackberries, cherries and currants that are liberally oaked. Dry and refined, the wine will develop bottle complexity after 2018.

91

52

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

80,325

Argentina

Floral red-berry aromas come with a note of bath soap. A heavy palate feels buttery, while woody blackberry and plum flavors finish solid but a touch bitter, with an echo of floral black cherry.

85

13

Mendoza Province

Malbec

71,758

US

Juicy and smoky, this robust wine is thickly textured and earthy in dusty dried herb. Blackberry, tar and leather provide ample additional intrigue, with a pleasing taste of strawberry jam and supportive, toasty oak.

90

50

California

Merlot

61,605

France

The wine has all the right crispness and steeliness of a Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay. It also has warmth, yellow fruits along with a touch of apple. That makes a wine that is full-bodied while not missing out on a tight, very fresh aftertaste.

90

50

Champagne

Chardonnay

127,015

Italy

Enticing floral scents of rose and iris mingle with red fruit and aromatic herbs on this stunning wine. The elegant, structured palate doles out strawberry, sour cherry, clove and white pepper alongside bright acidity while noble, refined tannins provide the backbone. Give this a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2020 through 2028.

93

180

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

106,446

Italy

The name of the wine is an old word used to measure fields, and reflects the Gallo (no connection with the California winery) family's use of traditional ideas and techniques at Vie de Romans. This wine has full, ripe fruit, soft and with layers of attractive wood and vanilla flavors.

87

28

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

63,004

Germany

Ripe berries and violets scent this heady, perfumed Riesling. The palate is rich and confectionery in style with candied cherry and honey notes that linger amidst a dusty, earthy backdrop of crushed stones and minerals. It's a brisk, but slightly unbalanced wine, yet refreshing through the finish.

85

14

Mosel

Riesling

108,727

Spain

This is a concentrated bruiser from a ripe warm vintage. Aromas of cheesy oak, vanilla, maple and blackberry require as much air as possible. Saturated, heavy and jammy on the palate, this pounds the palate with rugged tannins. Flavors of blackberry, prune and chocolate finish thick, chewy and grabby. This is not about elegance—it's all about power and concentration. Drink through 2025.

92

33

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

95,754

US

The recent vintages of Rex Hill Pinots tend to be big, ripe wines, at times just on the border of raisiny, with fleshy, effusive fruit flavors matched to plenty of toasty oak. Despite the high alcohol, these are enjoyable and even seductive wines. The red fruit flavors are sharp and angular, with spicy tobacco and pepper highlights.

89

42

Oregon

Pinot Noir

24,187

US

With 6 Rhône varieties, including Viognier, this is a fresh, fruity wine meant to be consumed within the next five years. It's strong in cherry, blackberry and other berry flavors, with the smoky vanilla of oak.

87

40

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

47,469

France

The characteristic 2014 acidity makes a lovely lemony splash in the center of this dry, refreshing wine. Lemon freshness rises from the glass, offering lots of verve and a lip-smacking finish.

89

26

Alsace

Riesling

106,145

US

Although slightly off dry, it retains excellent tension and minerality. Pear, peach and pineapple fruit flavors combine in an elegant and long-lasting wine.

90

15

Washington

Riesling

96,775

Spain

Leather, cheesy oak, baked raspberry and mild herbal notes create a good bouquet. This is somewhat raw, choppy and pinched in feel, while flavors of loamy black fruits hint at prune. Finishing flavors of coffee and spice are offset by residual juicy acidity.

88

18

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

70,466

US

Demure on the nose with hints of dust, smoke and dried herbs, this is a dry, decidedly savory style of Sauvignon Blanc. It's crisp and spry on the palate with pleasant lemon-lime flavors, but finishes briskly.

84

16

New York

Sauvignon Blanc

41,259

US

Maybe a tad off the pace from the excellent 2008, but still a wonderfully rich, complex wine. Pale in color, it tastes fresh and lively, with raspberry and cherry sour candy flavors accompanied by a burst of zesty acidity. Enjoyable now, and should gain bottle complexities over the next six years.

91

65

California

Pinot Noir

97,610

US

The recent vintages from this Santa Maria-based winery of actress Challen Cates and winemaker Kevin Law are some of the most impressive wines out there. This is dark in the glass, with a rich bouquet of cinnamon-clove foam, black plum pudding and hot pastry. It hits the palate with panache and power, showing allspice, dried ginger and sharp cola notes atop rich black cherry fruit.

94

65

California

Pinot Noir

122,447

Argentina

Red berry and cola aromas come with a cool menthol note. It feels chunky and jammy; the moderate-to-soft acidity creates a rubbery palate, with cherry and plum flavors. The finish turns sweet like caramel and slightly stewed.

87

12

Mendoza Province

Malbec

21,937

Italy

This wonderful ruby-colored Riserva delivers notes of ripe cherry, milk chocolate, herbs and pipe tobacco. It has loads of zest and pizzazz, with lingering spice tones, solid structure and silky tannins. It presents a complete and very pretty package.

90

25

Tuscany

Sangiovese

23,102

US

An unusual blend of 59% Sauvignon Blanc and 41% Chardonnay, this wine opens with a creamy mousse and flavors of ripe apple. Crisp, soft and medium bodied, it's textured and good at hiding the larger amount of SB, resembling more closely a traditional blanc de blancs.

88

20

California

Sparkling Blend

124,467

Argentina

Fresh like a peach on the nose, with a bit of warm radiator dust. Flavors of lemon and green apple are narrow, and the mouthfeel is limited and indicates that the lifespan of the wine may be short. Citric on the finish, and overall there's just not a lot going on here.

83

10

Mendoza Province

Sauvignon Blanc

91,403

Italy

Made with organically farmed grapes, this pretty Pinot Grigio offers floral aromas of white spring flowers along with creamy green apple and citrus notes. It has crisp, clean finish. Sip as an apéritif or pair with lightly seasoned fish dishes.

86

11

Veneto

Pinot Grigio

83,958

US

Tasty fresh fruit, leaning toward grapefruit and pineapple, peach and lemon. Zesty and forward, it refreshes rather than fatigues the palate, and is perfect for sipping on a spring afternoon. Best Buy.

87

11

Washington

Chardonnay

107,250

US

Peppery and beefy in aroma, this wine is heavy on the savory components and rather lean on fruit flavors.

85

31

California

Barbera

7,540

US

Freshly acidic and jammy in blackberry, cherry and raspberry flavors, this is one of the fruitier Napa Cabs available. It's at its best now, so drink up with a nice steak.

87

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

114,625

Spain

Clean, fruity and solid smelling, with a fresh, lightweight palate housing flavors of ginger, lime, lemongrass and powdered sugar. Easy on the finish. Textbook quaffing Cava if you like it a little sweet.

86

10

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

119,627

US

In the blend of this intensely fragrant young wine is 14% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. I like the complexity, the way the primary fruits mix in unusual notes of pineapple along with the black cherry. It's resonant and tangy, with good, long flavors and lots of new oak. This was a year of winemaker transition, and may be the last of the real chocolaty wines from Northstar. Give this plenty of airing, or cellar it for another 3–4 years.

92

41

Washington

Merlot

58,209

US

This excellent red is 75% Cabernet Franc, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. O•S generally produces one of the best Francs in Washington, lifted and intense, occasionally a bit high-toned, but always packed with juicy red fruits and barrel highlights of coffee and tobacco.

91

30

Washington

Cabernet Franc

67,668

Italy

This opens with aromas that recall weedy underbrush, crushed dill, camphor, saline, hay and a hint of orange rind. The evolved palate offers roasted coffee bean, licorice and a confectionary note but it lacks fruit richness. Astringent but fleeting tannins dry out the finish.

85

50

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

92,535

US

Balletto's style is typically earlier picked, drier and more acidic and lower in alcohol than many other Russian River Pinots. The 2007 is quite a good wine along those lines. The great structure houses flavors of currants, Dr. Pepper cola and spice, while the firm tannins give a chewy leathery feel. Should develop through 2013.

89

24

California

Pinot Noir

79,172

US

This wine is a blend of Malbec (69%) and Syrah. Aromas of plum and spice lead to a plump, flavorful palate full of fruit flavors.

88

15

Washington

Red Blend

100,707

France

This is a spicy wine, with balanced wood, yellow-fruit flavors and acidity that cuts through the spice and ripeness. A zing of citrus finishes this attractive wine in style.

89

30

Burgundy

Chardonnay

127,417

US

You'd likely never peg this as either Grenache or Alexander Valley. With a light, crisp mouthfeel and pure flavors of cherries and pomegrantes, it's likeable for its dry silkiness, and ready to drink now.

88

30

California

Grenache

120,722

US

The flavors in this Merlot are exceptionally ripe with cherries, red currants, red plums, mocha and new oak, and the tannins are rich and refined. High alcohol gives it a heat that makes it uncomfortable.

87

50

California

Merlot

61,547

US

You get what you pay for in this crisp, savory Sauvignon Blanc. It's tart and clean, with fruity flavors of pineapple, lemon and lime juices that finish a little sweet.

84

13

California

Sauvignon Blanc

16,262

France

The wine is all spice and sweet fruits. It has a honeyed character that gives the wine softness while also showing a dry core. The wine is rounded now and ready to drink.

86

30

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

67,326

US

Here's a textbook California Chardonnay made in a ripe, oaky style that pleases for its richness. The pineapple pie flavors have a toasted meringue edge, and the finish is dry and spicy.

87

28

California

Chardonnay

45,543

US

This wine combines 38% Cabernet Sauvignon with 35% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, with fruit from Stagecoach and Alta vineyards contributing to the mix. Dusty tannin and a weight of leather saddle permeate the nose and palate, with graphite puncturing through the soft texture and finish.

90

54

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend