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
63,928	US	Light in color and body, with a silky texture and cherry, cola, bacon and peppery spice flavors, this Grenache could be easily mistaken for Pinot Noir. It's a very nice wine to drink with a steak, lamb chop or pork loin.	88	25	California	Grenache
101,819	France	This is a herbaceous wine with dominant green fruit, followed by acidity and fine flavors of sweet currant, kiwi and thyme. It is fresh and ready to drink.	87	23	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
23,789	US	Fully ripe, this opens with scents of hibiscus tea, mixed berry, plum and black cherry. The fruit flavors are bold and intense, right on the border of showing some prune character. Streaks of balsamic, tobacco and black olive make it a real potpourri. Drink up now through 2018.	89	25	Oregon	Cabernet Franc
101,631	US	Blueberry fruit, purple flowers and licorice break through the very dense cloud of finely knit tannins that frame the entire experience of this best-of-house bottling. Dark-roast coffee beans and hints of blackberry fruit can be found once sipped, but this needs years to evolve. Luckily, it has the excellent tannins and bright acidity needed to do so.	89	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
33,258	US	Solid and substantial, this single-vineyard wine has real meat on its bones, both figuratively and literally, as it carries some savory notes along with ripe blackberry fruit. The acid-tannin balance is picture-perfect, and though sturdy and ripe, it conveys an impression of grace and elegance.	92	60	Oregon	Pinot Noir
93,864	France	This is an attractive fruity wine with citrus fruits and a tangy, zesty texture. The lightest hint of wood gives the wine extra richness. It is already drinkable.	87	30	Burgundy	Chardonnay
5,967	France	A rather dull nose does not want to reveal much. The palate counters this with freshness and a rosehip tartness that has some bitter-edged redcurrant charm. This is fresh and easy and would also work as a chilled red.	87	20	Alsace	Pinot Noir
126,072	Italy	A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese, Poggio alla Guardia is bright, clean and enjoyable, and it exudes notes of cherry, blackberry and spice. It would pair seamlessly with red meat, chicken or pasta.	88	20	Tuscany	Red Blend
2,618	Argentina	Lightly brambled and ever so slightly green, with pleasant strawberry and raspberry aromas. The mouthfeel is a touch choppy and grabby, but it's not too thin and rough to make it unpleasant. Not bad for the price.	83	6	Mendoza Province	Tempranillo
125,530	US	One of the few Petite Sirahs grown in Santa Barbara County's cooler climate, this bottling offers tart boysenberry, wild sagebrush and lean graphite touches on the nose. The tannins are sticky, although the body is relatively light, showing violet floral notes and earthy minerality.	88	28	California	Petite Sirah
70,016	US	This honest effort at a terroir-driven Cabernet starts with currant and blackberry aromas, although they’re a little on the weak side. Nice berry and spice flavors with a dash of wood. High acidity gives it a real bite, and it finishes a little sharp as well.	84	19	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
12,757	US	Aged over two years in American oak with fruit grown in Amador and Lodi, this Syrah is all oak and leather, recalling bacon on the grill like a diner on a workday morning. Balanced in the mouth with come-hither tannins.	85	28	California	Syrah
79,908	Spain	This smells rubbery and gritty, with notes of gas and leather. It feels acidic and drawing but healthy, with earthy red-berry flavors. Dry and peppy, there's still not a lot of style or character to the wine.	84	15	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
63,260	France	With some firm structure behind the red fruits, this wine will have a good future. A dry core sustained by the acidity is waiting to burst out and give a ripe, fruity while always fresh wine. Drink from 2018.	90	56	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
11,013	US	Grapefruit peel and tart lemon combine for a memorably savory beginning to this crisp wine. This one integrates its acidity with a medium weight into a clean, dry and lengthy package of flavor and bite.	90	32	California	Rosé
6,951	Italy	Podere Paganico offers an impressive level of aromatic complexity thanks to layers of forest floor, dried apricot, underbrush, wet earth, cured meats and dried apple skins. It's a chewy, big wine with solid texture and firm tannins.	89	47	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
36,838	Argentina	Black-fruit aromas are accented by notes of licorice, green herbs and grass. This is full and chunky, but a bit hollow in mouthfeel. Pronounced tartaric acidity results in surface-level pop along with hollowness, while lactic oak and coconut flavors on the finish are familiar for Argentine Cabernet.	89	26	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
39,822	US	Sourced entirely from the Carabella vineyard, this offers a pleasing blend of citrus, pineapple and pear fruit, with a backing of honey-laced lemon tea. It's delicious and ready to drink.	90	28	Oregon	Chardonnay
43,603	France	This tight wine lacks fruit. Touches of apple and citrus are lost in the austere texture. No artificial yeasts were used during vinification in stainless steel and large oak barrels.	84	18	Burgundy	Chardonnay
86,767	Italy	Alluring aromas of ripe berry, violet, iris, baking spice and fennel take center stage on this stunning red. The structured palate delivers juicy red berry, black raspberry, clove and star anise alongside fresh acidity and close-grained tannins. A mineral note energizes the finish.	92	75	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
94,377	US	The winery's more accessible offering, this hearty full-bodied red is impressive in its smoky char and herbal kick—elements that ride along a thickness of tannin and black-fruit concentration.	90	48	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
94,801	US	Made from grapes sourced from an inland Mendocino County appellation, this is at first forceful, tannic and dusty, with strong red-berry and blueberry flavors. A tad decadent, it settles down nicely in the glass.	87	24	California	Zinfandel
73,232	Italy	Mature dark-skinned berry, leather, forest floor, eucalyptus and dark cooking spice aromas come together in the glass. The delicious palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, white pepper, clove and licorice alongside round, chewy tannins.	92	30	Piedmont	Barbera
91,933	US	Tastes so softly decadent, so rich in jam and chocolate flavors, that it's no surprise to learn the alcohol on this Merlot is a hefty 16.2% by volume. It's almost Port-like, but the finish is dry and clean. It's not for long aging, but with the right foods—Mexican mole beef or lamb comes to kind—this is a good marriage.	89	75	California	Merlot
9,177	US	Distinctly wet-earth aromas of mushroom surround a line of graphite with touches of red fruit in this impressive bottling from young winemaker Cris Carter. The umami-driven flavors of shiitake and dried figs are elegant and soft in the mouth, a great fit for lovers of earthy, savory Pinot Noir.	92	35	California	Pinot Noir
118,248	Italy	Taut and tense, this opens with aromas of red berry, crushed herb, clove and whiff of menthol. The firm, tightly wound palate offers bright cherry, licorice and ground black pepper alongside assertive tannins and nervous acidity. Give this time to unwind and fully develop. Drink 2019–2031.	91	97	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
125,856	US	A rich golden color, this unctuous offering is luxuriously layered in honeycomb and vanilla crème brûlée, complex, big and bold. A wall of oak adds structure and density without taking over, opening the door to a finish of juicy ripe fig.	93	45	California	Chardonnay
38,714	US	Simple and green, with mint, tobacco and cherry flavors. It's a sound, clean wine. Even though the fruit isn't exactly concentrated, it's an easy wine to drink at parties.	83	10	California	Merlot
52,619	US	Alienor Grand Vin hails from Kelseyville, in Lake County, a fine place for Bordeaux varieties. A blend of 51% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, this is highly structured with a lot of herbal intensity. The typical fruit forwardness of many California reds is subdued; the wine may need time for the fruit to make its way through.	89	65	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
51,089	US	A bit too sweet for comfort. The tannins are soft and refined, and the blackberry, cocoa and spice flavors are just fine. But that sugary finish makes it unbalanced.	83	24	California	Syrah
120,231	Italy	Rose, strawberry and forest floor aromas meld in the glass on this charming expression of Nebbiolo. The bright, savory palate doles out crushed strawberry, black raspberry, clove and star anise alongside silky tannins. Like a little black dress, this would be perfect for any occasion.	90	20	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
94,697	US	Flavors of cracker and toast accompany light raspberry fruit. The wine is a bit unbalanced, and it falls a little flat on the finish.	85	18	Washington	Red Blend
116,013	US	Made in the popular style, this will find plenty of fans. It's sweet and creamy in buttered toast, pineapple and pear flavors.	85	15	California	Chardonnay
1,842	US	Sweet and somewhat disjointed, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc offers ripe apricot and peach before becoming slightly sour and herbal on the finish.	83	16	California	Sauvignon Blanc
75,593	US	Dry and zesty in acidity, this Chard offers flavors of apricots, green apples, pears and butter cream. It's pretty good for this everyday price.	85	10	California	Chardonnay
77,392	US	From one of the producer's coolest sites, this wine has a nose of wet gravel and lime peel, enveloped in oaky caramel and toast with Meyer lemon jam. A mouthwatering structure of spicy acidity underlies it all. It has ages to go in the bottle; drink now through 2023.	94	60	California	Chardonnay
13,701	US	A likeable Pinot from a stalwart Anderson Valley vineyard, this Ferrington is light in color but rich with baked strawberry and violet. With a distinct woodsy component remniscent of forest floor, it's an ideal wine for wintertime meals adorned in mushrooms and herbs. Its finish is particularly sauvage.	90	55	California	Pinot Noir
101,719	US	There's plenty of ripe blackberry and cherry here, along with a heady dose of vanilla and spice, but also darker, earthier tones of forest floor and mulch that linger on the nose. The palate is fresh and crisp though, framed by fine, firm tannins and brisk acidity. It finishes with a tang.	86	15	New York	Cabernet Franc
95,011	US	Half tank fermented, half barrel fermented, this full-bodied and spicy effort marries apple and banana fruit flavors to a dash of piney herb. It strikes a different chord than most Willamette Valley Chardonnays, but has the suppleness and body to match most poultry dishes.	88	22	Oregon	Chardonnay
48,572	Argentina	A wonderful wine from the Uco Valley of Mendoza that opens with fine fruit, richness and molten earth. The palate is big as they come but not hard and out of whack, and the flavors are an amalgam of rich black plum, berry fruit, fig paste and chocolate. Smoky and sultry on the back end, with mocha and coffee for finishing notes. Drink now through 2014.	93	45	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
73,324	US	An absolutely gorgeous Cabernet. It flatters all the way through, from the flamboyantly ripe cassis, cherry, cocoa and anise flavors to the smooth tannins and long, spicy finish. So refined and rich, yet so elegant. Should age for at least the next 6–8 years.	94	90	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
111,910	Italy	Aromas of dark berry, blue flower, baking spice and a whiff of forest floor come together in the glass. The vibrant palate starts off with wild cherry, clove and sage but then loses some steam midpalate. Fine-grained but not very persistent tannins offer support. It's already surprisingly accessible. Drink through 2016–2020.	88	45	Tuscany	Sangiovese
38,486	US	Here's one of the fruitier Pinots you'll ever encounter. It's like diving into a pool of raspberry and cherry jam. There's excellent acidity to balance all that richness, and while it's not a subtle wine, the texture is nice and silky. Drink up.	85	26	California	Pinot Noir
91,640	US	Black pepper, espresso, dark berries and woody herbs show on the nose of this blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Sangiovese, 13% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot and 6% Freisa from the Los Alamos and Valley View Vineyards. Stewed blackberries and more pepper show on the densely structured, acid-laced palate, which also offers coffee and dark chocolate flavors.	92	38	California	Red Blend
74,587	Germany	Initial impressions are smoky and savory, but the nose opens to reveal aromas of freshly pressed apple, lemon and crushed minerals. The palate is ripe with sunny tangerine and yellow peach flavors, but moderated with piercingly tart lemon-lime acidity. Finishes moderately long on a sumptuous honey-tangerine note.	90	26	Mosel	Riesling
102,440	US	This aromatically appealing wine brings aromas of blue fruit, barbecue briquettes, herbs, mineral and assorted spices. The fruit flavors are lithe yet intense, with a squeeze of tannins that lead to a supremely long finish.	92	55	Washington	Syrah
129,682	US	After helping Liquid Farm launch to Chardonnay success, the Dragonette crew took their own stab at making the white grape, and have succeeded wildly. Extremely pithy aromas of lime and yellow grapefruit meet with yogurt, kiwi and chive on the zesty nose, which unleashes a citrus explosion once sipped of lime peels, tangerine flesh and skin, and yellow apples in the midpalate.	93	60	California	Chardonnay
125,117	US	The restrained nose of this bottling shows red cherry, dusty earth, sagebrush and a bit of rosebud. The palate blends the sour and sweet tones of candied cranberry with thyme and bay leaf, proving quite clean and tasty.	88	55	California	Pinot Noir
82,032	US	A touch of new oak in the aroma and bright raspberry and cherry in the flavors make this medium-bodied wine easy to sip and enjoy. Typical for the grape variety, it has noticeable liveliness in the texture and a bit of tang on the finish.	88	25	California	Barbera
45,329	US	The Daou brothers' heady blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon is very dark in the glass, offering blueberry, espresso, cream and dark chocolate ganache on the lush nose. Blackberry jam, tobacco, pencil lead and oregano show on the palate, where firm structure and juicy acidity leaves the mouth uplifted.	93	65	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
69,292	US	With a mix of melon and cucumber flavors, this is not-quite-ripe tasting. Clean and quaffable, it has a hint of alcoholic warmth on the palate.	85	14	Oregon	Pinot Gris
77,699	US	Dry Creek Chards ask for a certain indulgence. They're never opulent or over the top, and have rather earthy flavors that bring to mind sweet, cured tobacco. This wine, which is a fine example, features winemaker interventions, like lees and oak, and finishes with some tannins. If you're adventurous, try aging it.	87	30	California	Chardonnay
42,202	US	Barrel aromas of vanilla and graphite take the lead. The red-fruit flavors are ripe and jammy. There are plenty of good things going on but they don't quite all come together.	88	24	Washington	Merlot
96,368	US	Soft and spicy, this wine is a mix of full-bodied ripeness and edgier undertones of dried herb, black tea and tobacco leaf. Blackberry jam is the fruitier component, while the finish is sizable in tannin.	88	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
102,186	US	Pretty nice for a statewide appellation, with true Zin characteristics of wild, brambly berries. The alcohol is high and the wine is very dry, a full-throttle assault on the senses, with its maximum load of jammy fruit. Nothing subtle, just a bases-loaded, ripe wine that leaves little to the imagination. Best Buy.	86	10	California	Zinfandel
116,301	US	A full 13 years old, the aromas are still vibrant, with notes of cranberry sauce, leather, vanilla and baking spice. The palate displays a beautiful sense of balance between the fruit and barrel flavors. It's in an absolute sweet spot right now but still has life in front of it.	92	42	Washington	Syrah
339	Spain	Red in color, with berry and apple aromas, this is sweet, with a heavy body and light effervescence.	82	13	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
15,510	France	Mature, toasty aromas give this wine an immediate sophistication. It is full in the mouth, showing almonds, ripe toastiness, coffee and tight acidity. It's ripe and full-bodied while keeping a more nervy character that allows it to finish with a great lift. It's ready to drink.	93	140	Champagne	Champagne Blend
58,180	US	Grippy blackberry and licorice wrap around an intriguing bouquet of Italian deli meats and spices, with sinewy tannins and unobtrusive oak. Given over a year in 40% new French oak, it proffers a subtle hit of pepper on the finish.	88	29	California	Malbec
34,806	Spain	This smells like fresh pavement at first, with gritty black-fruit and burnt leaf notes. The palate feels edgy, with a spotty red-fruit flavor that's matched with notes of resiny oak and vanilla. It finishes in a similar fashion. Novo Imports and Aidil Wines & Liquors.	85	14	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
104,361	US	Winemaker Bill Brosseau tapped into his family's vineyard to produce this light and delicate wine. Its aromas suggest white flowers, key lime and chalk, while its flavors are high-toned and tight, recalling chilled pear, lime and pomelo pith. A graphite-like minerality adds complexity.	92	49	California	Chardonnay
115,886	US	Ripe waves of juicy strawberry ride along an ocean of tight, firm tannins that need time to coalesce and soften. Complex, the fruit is complemented by spicy clove and black tea, giving a savory edge to the succulent fruit. It needs time, through 2020.	91	54	California	Pinot Noir
118,496	Argentina	Dark aromas of black cherry and plum are spicy and suggestive of crude oil. In the mouth, this everyday Cab shows juicy balance and clean lines. Standard black-fruit flavors come with spice notes and a harmonious, long finish.	88	10	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
56,233	US	This blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc is still quite fresh for being seven-years-old, offering aromas of concentrated red-cherry juice, allspice, sandalwood and nose-tickling cinnamon. Cedar and myrrh flavors lead the woody palate, where a buoyant acidity lifts up the red cherry and tart red-currant fruits.	91	79	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
121,701	France	The wine is tight with a strong mineral element over the acidity. It shows a sense of chalky terroir, full of red-currant fruits and a nervy aftertaste. It will take some time to fully develop, so wait until 2023.	93	109	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
67,621	US	This is the winery's best Nebula in years. While it's still a little on the soft, sweet side, the cool vintage has resonated in the wine's flavor, giving it a good structure housing cherry, currant and sandalwood flavors. Drink now.	87	29	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
59,676	US	A vivid yellow-gold color and creamy, butterscotchy flavors pile up the richness in this full-bodied wine. Great underlying acidity lifts up the wine for good balance and a lasting, tingly finish. The concentration and creaminess are wonderful to taste.	92	28	California	Chardonnay
91,213	Spain	Smoky and dark on the nose, with crusty black fruit aromas. It's short and tough in the mouth, with beaming acidity but only monoline red berry flavors. High acidity rears up again on the finish. Reflects the tough conditions of 2008.	86	25	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
45,844	US	While the concentrated flavors of peaches and sweet pears are pleasant, whiffs of smoke and toasted nuts lend a savory, rather atypical character to this dry Gewürz. It's dry and brisk, with soft, lemony acidity.	84	13	New York	Gewürztraminer
90,100	US	Big, upfront flavors mark this Cabernet, providing big blackberry, black cherry, mocha, vanilla and toast notes. It's very dry, tannic and a little aggressive at this time. It could develop bottle complexity over the years.	89	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
38,292	US	Scented with herbs, pine needles and a hint of pepper, this has a solid core of tart, wild-cherry fruit. The tannins are drying and show some stem flavors, but as the wine breathes it smoothes out and softens up.	90	48	Oregon	Pinot Noir
116,209	US	A little too sweet on the finish to recommend it as a balanced wine, this Gnarly Head from Lodi's old vines has about 16% Petite Sirah in it, too.	84	11	California	Zinfandel
884	US	Pretty dark in color and full bodied for a sparkling wine, even one that's majority Pinot Noir. But it's delicious and dry, which surely are prime requisites for any bubbly. Shows ripe, flashy raspberry, strawberry, orange, vanilla, honey, yeast and toast flavors, and the mouthfeel is silky and refined.	90	28	California	Sparkling Blend
90,768	US	Dark gold in color and intensely cradled in oak, this wine maintains a balance of complex, well-defined flavors of honey and apple, with lurking minerality that keeps it fresh and lively. It's lush and yet layered, a complete package. Drink now through 2020.	93	42	California	Chardonnay
6,163	US	Succulent and opulent, with ripe pineapple purée, Meyer lemon tart, kiwi fruit, pastry crust and tangy mineral flavors, enriched with the buttered toast and caramel of new oak.	89	29	California	Chardonnay
60,193	Spain	Smoky aromas of tree bark and tobacco blend with dried, earthy cherry and plum scents. This feels a bit raw and pulling, while dried cherry, plum and baking-spice flavors finish good but a touch hot and scratchy. Drink now.	88	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
60,514	US	Round and fruity, this differs from Willamette Valley Pinots, in that it's broad, fruit-driven, perhaps less complex but readily accessible and quite delicious immediately. Cherry lollipop, oranges and light tropical-fruit flavors abound. Drink while it's young and fresh—slightly chilled if you wish.	89	22	Oregon	Pinot Noir
36,758	France	Hints of fresh mint leaves highlight the brooding black currant and dark fruit aromas. The balance of Cabernet and Merlot has been successfully achieved, as the wine is beautifully structured with a firm backbone of ample tannins and a rich, supple mouthfeel.	86	32	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
21,299	Italy	Aromas of red berry, clove and star anise emerge on this lively, light-bodied red. The easygoing palate offers tart cherry, white pepper and an orange peel note alongside lithe tannins and bright acidity.	87	28	Tuscany	Red Blend
126,542	US	There's an exotic saltiness and briny ocean element to this memorable wine, grandly textured and integrated in terms of oak. Medium in weight, it finds balance between savory, spicy and salty tones and a crispness of Gravenstein apple.	91	51	California	Chardonnay
103,522	US	Full body, a broad texture and very ripe flavors give both heft and softness to this cedar- and brown-sugar-scented wine. The ample fruit flavors taste mature and fully ripe, like dried plums.	86	28	California	Pinot Noir
111,119	France	Well balanced, this red fruited-wine is also fully structured with a mineral background. With a dosage that brings out the texture as well as the fruit, this is a great apéritif-style of wine. Drink now.	88	50	Champagne	Champagne Blend
42,461	Italy	This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese offers earthy aromas of violet, plum, leather and meat juice. The palate delivers ripe blackberry, chocolate, orange zest, pepper and nutmeg flavors, all enveloped in smooth, round tannins.	88	26	Tuscany	Red Blend
75,545	US	They say the grapes come from Lake, Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. There are some pretty good black-currant and oak aromas, but the flavors are thin and sharp. It’s well made, as you’d expect. Still, the overall impression is lean and austere.	83	13	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
122,865	US	Aromas of raspberry, plum, freshly ground black pepper, herb and wood spice lead to pure tart cranberry and cherry flavors that bring a compelling feel. The tannins bring a light squeeze. It's a lovely example of the variety.	91	50	Washington	Malbec
84,243	France	Aromatically, this wine is still shy on nose and palate. Underneath that the linearity and inherent slenderness of ripe tangerine flesh and zest come though, enriched with an earthy notion of ripe pear. The palate is dry and energetic, but also still rather closed. The true colors are revealed on the finish, with a lasting pear note bundled on the concentrated, linear palate. Drink 2019–2030.	93	25	Alsace	Riesling
84,356	Germany	The little-known Mosel village of Reil is the source of this perplexing wine. It possesses attractive and slightly stony, citrus aromas, and starts off on the sweet side, with bright pineapple fruit. But somewhere on the palate it shifts gears, turning dry and tart almost to the point of being sour.	84	30	Mosel	Riesling
129,266	France	A well constructed, solid wine, this has a fine layer of firm tannins that melds well with the rich black plums and acidity. Even this young, the wine is showing a balanced character, warm and ripe. It will age, so drink from 2018.	90	35	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
41,443	Argentina	Saucy and briary smelling up front, with additional horsey, earthy berry aromas, this Malbec is chewy in feel, with baked berry and a hint of chocolate for flavors. A resiny, sticky finish tastes stewy and baked, with a leftover touch of chocolate.	86	15	Mendoza Province	Malbec
6,450	Italy	Here's a beautiful interpretation from the 2008 vintage that shows balance, harmony and intensity all zipped up into one tight package. That seamless integration, followed by rich extraction, gives the wine momentum overall. Although this is a different wine from past vintages, the quality is just as high. Hold 5–10 years.	94	65	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
40,063	France	With a sweet dosage, this is soft Blanc de Blancs. Pears, hints of apricots go with some crisp acidity. It still tastes young and needs time to integrate, but will always be on the sweet side of Brut.	87	46	Champagne	Chardonnay
74,941	US	After starting out reductive, this wine opens to reveal light aromas of fig and tropical fruit, seeming a bit muddled. The flavors, however, come through clearly, providing a textured feel.	88	19	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
116,777	US	Good for the winery for producing a Cab Franc that's truly distinct and interesting. It doesn't have a vineyard designation, but it's from the highly regarded Truchard vineyard. With a firm core of dusty tannins and a heart of blackberries, black cherries, currants and black pepper, it's elegant, complex and ageworthy.	92	40	California	Cabernet Franc
96,640	US	A new offering from the producer, this is a barrel-aged white chiseled in a complexity of melon, dried herb and lemongrass. With subtle hints of baked pineapple and papaya, it veers tropical without becoming overripe, finishing in refreshing waves of light, bright acidity.	90	28	California	Sauvignon Blanc
29,414	Italy	Aromas of French oak, roasted coffee bean, dark berry and menthol lead the nose. The ripe, full-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and a toasted note alongside assertive, close-grained tannins. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol that throws the finish off balance.	88	75	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
61,935	US	A thick, pasty wine with considerable tannins and a heavy-handed mouthfeel. Flavors are weedy and generic berry. Not going anywhere.	82	18	California	Pinot Noir
60,322	US	Don't let the evil-eye label scare you off. An earthy, beefy flavor gives this dry and medium-bodied wine a bit of an unusual but attractive personality. It feels firm and well-balanced on the palate, with good acidity and firm tannins.	86	15	California	Red Blend
96,117	US	This bold densely structured Chardonnay suggests notes of candied orange peel, preserved apple and pears accented with caramel and sweet spice. Delicate acidity accentuates a warm spicy finish.	87	35	New York	Chardonnay
92,235	Italy	Aromas of cooked fruit, stewed plum, toast, coffee and vanilla lead the nose. The warm palate offers up fleshy black cherry, mocha and a licorice note, with the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate. It's already accessible so drink soon.	87	55	Tuscany	Sangiovese
88,859	US	The winery held this back an additional six months after their other 2008 Pinots were released, presumably to let it become integrated. Still, it's quite tannic, with a sandpaper-like toughness. Despite the astringency, the massive wild-cherry, cola, mushroom and anise flavors come through. It's a huge wine, feral and untamed—quite exquisite in its wildness. So delicious now, it's hard to resist, but the wise collector will cellar it for 4–5 years, maybe even longer.	95	49	California	Pinot Noir

63,928

US

Light in color and body, with a silky texture and cherry, cola, bacon and peppery spice flavors, this Grenache could be easily mistaken for Pinot Noir. It's a very nice wine to drink with a steak, lamb chop or pork loin.

88

25

California

Grenache

101,819

France

This is a herbaceous wine with dominant green fruit, followed by acidity and fine flavors of sweet currant, kiwi and thyme. It is fresh and ready to drink.

87

23

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

23,789

US

Fully ripe, this opens with scents of hibiscus tea, mixed berry, plum and black cherry. The fruit flavors are bold and intense, right on the border of showing some prune character. Streaks of balsamic, tobacco and black olive make it a real potpourri. Drink up now through 2018.

89

25

Oregon

Cabernet Franc

101,631

US

Blueberry fruit, purple flowers and licorice break through the very dense cloud of finely knit tannins that frame the entire experience of this best-of-house bottling. Dark-roast coffee beans and hints of blackberry fruit can be found once sipped, but this needs years to evolve. Luckily, it has the excellent tannins and bright acidity needed to do so.

89

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

33,258

US

Solid and substantial, this single-vineyard wine has real meat on its bones, both figuratively and literally, as it carries some savory notes along with ripe blackberry fruit. The acid-tannin balance is picture-perfect, and though sturdy and ripe, it conveys an impression of grace and elegance.

92

60

Oregon

Pinot Noir

93,864

France

This is an attractive fruity wine with citrus fruits and a tangy, zesty texture. The lightest hint of wood gives the wine extra richness. It is already drinkable.

87

30

Burgundy

Chardonnay

5,967

France

A rather dull nose does not want to reveal much. The palate counters this with freshness and a rosehip tartness that has some bitter-edged redcurrant charm. This is fresh and easy and would also work as a chilled red.

87

20

Alsace

Pinot Noir

126,072

Italy

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese, Poggio alla Guardia is bright, clean and enjoyable, and it exudes notes of cherry, blackberry and spice. It would pair seamlessly with red meat, chicken or pasta.

88

20

Tuscany

Red Blend

2,618

Argentina

Lightly brambled and ever so slightly green, with pleasant strawberry and raspberry aromas. The mouthfeel is a touch choppy and grabby, but it's not too thin and rough to make it unpleasant. Not bad for the price.

83

6

Mendoza Province

Tempranillo

125,530

US

One of the few Petite Sirahs grown in Santa Barbara County's cooler climate, this bottling offers tart boysenberry, wild sagebrush and lean graphite touches on the nose. The tannins are sticky, although the body is relatively light, showing violet floral notes and earthy minerality.

88

28

California

Petite Sirah

70,016

US

This honest effort at a terroir-driven Cabernet starts with currant and blackberry aromas, although they’re a little on the weak side. Nice berry and spice flavors with a dash of wood. High acidity gives it a real bite, and it finishes a little sharp as well.

84

19

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

12,757

US

Aged over two years in American oak with fruit grown in Amador and Lodi, this Syrah is all oak and leather, recalling bacon on the grill like a diner on a workday morning. Balanced in the mouth with come-hither tannins.

85

28

California

Syrah

79,908

Spain

This smells rubbery and gritty, with notes of gas and leather. It feels acidic and drawing but healthy, with earthy red-berry flavors. Dry and peppy, there's still not a lot of style or character to the wine.

84

15

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

63,260

France

With some firm structure behind the red fruits, this wine will have a good future. A dry core sustained by the acidity is waiting to burst out and give a ripe, fruity while always fresh wine. Drink from 2018.

90

56

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

11,013

US

Grapefruit peel and tart lemon combine for a memorably savory beginning to this crisp wine. This one integrates its acidity with a medium weight into a clean, dry and lengthy package of flavor and bite.

90

32

California

Rosé

6,951

Italy

Podere Paganico offers an impressive level of aromatic complexity thanks to layers of forest floor, dried apricot, underbrush, wet earth, cured meats and dried apple skins. It's a chewy, big wine with solid texture and firm tannins.

89

47

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

36,838

Argentina

Black-fruit aromas are accented by notes of licorice, green herbs and grass. This is full and chunky, but a bit hollow in mouthfeel. Pronounced tartaric acidity results in surface-level pop along with hollowness, while lactic oak and coconut flavors on the finish are familiar for Argentine Cabernet.

89

26

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

39,822

US

Sourced entirely from the Carabella vineyard, this offers a pleasing blend of citrus, pineapple and pear fruit, with a backing of honey-laced lemon tea. It's delicious and ready to drink.

90

28

Oregon

Chardonnay

43,603

France

This tight wine lacks fruit. Touches of apple and citrus are lost in the austere texture. No artificial yeasts were used during vinification in stainless steel and large oak barrels.

84

18

Burgundy

Chardonnay

86,767

Italy

Alluring aromas of ripe berry, violet, iris, baking spice and fennel take center stage on this stunning red. The structured palate delivers juicy red berry, black raspberry, clove and star anise alongside fresh acidity and close-grained tannins. A mineral note energizes the finish.

92

75

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

94,377

US

The winery's more accessible offering, this hearty full-bodied red is impressive in its smoky char and herbal kick—elements that ride along a thickness of tannin and black-fruit concentration.

90

48

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

94,801

US

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

87

24

California

Zinfandel

73,232

Italy

Mature dark-skinned berry, leather, forest floor, eucalyptus and dark cooking spice aromas come together in the glass. The delicious palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, white pepper, clove and licorice alongside round, chewy tannins.

92

30

Piedmont

Barbera

91,933

US

Tastes so softly decadent, so rich in jam and chocolate flavors, that it's no surprise to learn the alcohol on this Merlot is a hefty 16.2% by volume. It's almost Port-like, but the finish is dry and clean. It's not for long aging, but with the right foods—Mexican mole beef or lamb comes to kind—this is a good marriage.

89

75

California

Merlot

9,177

US

Distinctly wet-earth aromas of mushroom surround a line of graphite with touches of red fruit in this impressive bottling from young winemaker Cris Carter. The umami-driven flavors of shiitake and dried figs are elegant and soft in the mouth, a great fit for lovers of earthy, savory Pinot Noir.

92

35

California

Pinot Noir

118,248

Italy

Taut and tense, this opens with aromas of red berry, crushed herb, clove and whiff of menthol. The firm, tightly wound palate offers bright cherry, licorice and ground black pepper alongside assertive tannins and nervous acidity. Give this time to unwind and fully develop. Drink 2019–2031.

91

97

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

125,856

US

A rich golden color, this unctuous offering is luxuriously layered in honeycomb and vanilla crème brûlée, complex, big and bold. A wall of oak adds structure and density without taking over, opening the door to a finish of juicy ripe fig.

93

45

California

Chardonnay

38,714

US

Simple and green, with mint, tobacco and cherry flavors. It's a sound, clean wine. Even though the fruit isn't exactly concentrated, it's an easy wine to drink at parties.

83

10

California

Merlot

52,619

US

Alienor Grand Vin hails from Kelseyville, in Lake County, a fine place for Bordeaux varieties. A blend of 51% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, this is highly structured with a lot of herbal intensity. The typical fruit forwardness of many California reds is subdued; the wine may need time for the fruit to make its way through.

89

65

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

51,089

US

A bit too sweet for comfort. The tannins are soft and refined, and the blackberry, cocoa and spice flavors are just fine. But that sugary finish makes it unbalanced.

83

24

California

Syrah

120,231

Italy

Rose, strawberry and forest floor aromas meld in the glass on this charming expression of Nebbiolo. The bright, savory palate doles out crushed strawberry, black raspberry, clove and star anise alongside silky tannins. Like a little black dress, this would be perfect for any occasion.

90

20

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

94,697

US

Flavors of cracker and toast accompany light raspberry fruit. The wine is a bit unbalanced, and it falls a little flat on the finish.

85

18

Washington

Red Blend

116,013

US

Made in the popular style, this will find plenty of fans. It's sweet and creamy in buttered toast, pineapple and pear flavors.

85

15

California

Chardonnay

1,842

US

Sweet and somewhat disjointed, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc offers ripe apricot and peach before becoming slightly sour and herbal on the finish.

83

16

California

Sauvignon Blanc

75,593

US

Dry and zesty in acidity, this Chard offers flavors of apricots, green apples, pears and butter cream. It's pretty good for this everyday price.

85

10

California

Chardonnay

77,392

US

From one of the producer's coolest sites, this wine has a nose of wet gravel and lime peel, enveloped in oaky caramel and toast with Meyer lemon jam. A mouthwatering structure of spicy acidity underlies it all. It has ages to go in the bottle; drink now through 2023.

94

60

California

Chardonnay

13,701

US

A likeable Pinot from a stalwart Anderson Valley vineyard, this Ferrington is light in color but rich with baked strawberry and violet. With a distinct woodsy component remniscent of forest floor, it's an ideal wine for wintertime meals adorned in mushrooms and herbs. Its finish is particularly sauvage.

90

55

California

Pinot Noir

101,719

US

There's plenty of ripe blackberry and cherry here, along with a heady dose of vanilla and spice, but also darker, earthier tones of forest floor and mulch that linger on the nose. The palate is fresh and crisp though, framed by fine, firm tannins and brisk acidity. It finishes with a tang.

86

15

New York

Cabernet Franc

95,011

US

Half tank fermented, half barrel fermented, this full-bodied and spicy effort marries apple and banana fruit flavors to a dash of piney herb. It strikes a different chord than most Willamette Valley Chardonnays, but has the suppleness and body to match most poultry dishes.

88

22

Oregon

Chardonnay

48,572

Argentina

A wonderful wine from the Uco Valley of Mendoza that opens with fine fruit, richness and molten earth. The palate is big as they come but not hard and out of whack, and the flavors are an amalgam of rich black plum, berry fruit, fig paste and chocolate. Smoky and sultry on the back end, with mocha and coffee for finishing notes. Drink now through 2014.

93

45

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

73,324

US

An absolutely gorgeous Cabernet. It flatters all the way through, from the flamboyantly ripe cassis, cherry, cocoa and anise flavors to the smooth tannins and long, spicy finish. So refined and rich, yet so elegant. Should age for at least the next 6–8 years.

94

90

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

111,910

Italy

Aromas of dark berry, blue flower, baking spice and a whiff of forest floor come together in the glass. The vibrant palate starts off with wild cherry, clove and sage but then loses some steam midpalate. Fine-grained but not very persistent tannins offer support. It's already surprisingly accessible. Drink through 2016–2020.

88

45

Tuscany

Sangiovese

38,486

US

Here's one of the fruitier Pinots you'll ever encounter. It's like diving into a pool of raspberry and cherry jam. There's excellent acidity to balance all that richness, and while it's not a subtle wine, the texture is nice and silky. Drink up.

85

26

California

Pinot Noir

91,640

US

Black pepper, espresso, dark berries and woody herbs show on the nose of this blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Sangiovese, 13% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot and 6% Freisa from the Los Alamos and Valley View Vineyards. Stewed blackberries and more pepper show on the densely structured, acid-laced palate, which also offers coffee and dark chocolate flavors.

92

38

California

Red Blend

74,587

Germany

Initial impressions are smoky and savory, but the nose opens to reveal aromas of freshly pressed apple, lemon and crushed minerals. The palate is ripe with sunny tangerine and yellow peach flavors, but moderated with piercingly tart lemon-lime acidity. Finishes moderately long on a sumptuous honey-tangerine note.

90

26

Mosel

Riesling

102,440

US

This aromatically appealing wine brings aromas of blue fruit, barbecue briquettes, herbs, mineral and assorted spices. The fruit flavors are lithe yet intense, with a squeeze of tannins that lead to a supremely long finish.

92

55

Washington

Syrah

129,682

US

After helping Liquid Farm launch to Chardonnay success, the Dragonette crew took their own stab at making the white grape, and have succeeded wildly. Extremely pithy aromas of lime and yellow grapefruit meet with yogurt, kiwi and chive on the zesty nose, which unleashes a citrus explosion once sipped of lime peels, tangerine flesh and skin, and yellow apples in the midpalate.

93

60

California

Chardonnay

125,117

US

The restrained nose of this bottling shows red cherry, dusty earth, sagebrush and a bit of rosebud. The palate blends the sour and sweet tones of candied cranberry with thyme and bay leaf, proving quite clean and tasty.

88

55

California

Pinot Noir

82,032

US

A touch of new oak in the aroma and bright raspberry and cherry in the flavors make this medium-bodied wine easy to sip and enjoy. Typical for the grape variety, it has noticeable liveliness in the texture and a bit of tang on the finish.

88

25

California

Barbera

45,329

US

The Daou brothers' heady blend of 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon is very dark in the glass, offering blueberry, espresso, cream and dark chocolate ganache on the lush nose. Blackberry jam, tobacco, pencil lead and oregano show on the palate, where firm structure and juicy acidity leaves the mouth uplifted.

93

65

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

69,292

US

With a mix of melon and cucumber flavors, this is not-quite-ripe tasting. Clean and quaffable, it has a hint of alcoholic warmth on the palate.

85

14

Oregon

Pinot Gris

77,699

US

Dry Creek Chards ask for a certain indulgence. They're never opulent or over the top, and have rather earthy flavors that bring to mind sweet, cured tobacco. This wine, which is a fine example, features winemaker interventions, like lees and oak, and finishes with some tannins. If you're adventurous, try aging it.

87

30

California

Chardonnay

42,202

US

Barrel aromas of vanilla and graphite take the lead. The red-fruit flavors are ripe and jammy. There are plenty of good things going on but they don't quite all come together.

88

24

Washington

Merlot

96,368

US

Soft and spicy, this wine is a mix of full-bodied ripeness and edgier undertones of dried herb, black tea and tobacco leaf. Blackberry jam is the fruitier component, while the finish is sizable in tannin.

88

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

102,186

US

Pretty nice for a statewide appellation, with true Zin characteristics of wild, brambly berries. The alcohol is high and the wine is very dry, a full-throttle assault on the senses, with its maximum load of jammy fruit. Nothing subtle, just a bases-loaded, ripe wine that leaves little to the imagination. Best Buy.

86

10

California

Zinfandel

116,301

US

A full 13 years old, the aromas are still vibrant, with notes of cranberry sauce, leather, vanilla and baking spice. The palate displays a beautiful sense of balance between the fruit and barrel flavors. It's in an absolute sweet spot right now but still has life in front of it.

92

42

Washington

Syrah

339

Spain

Red in color, with berry and apple aromas, this is sweet, with a heavy body and light effervescence.

82

13

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

15,510

France

Mature, toasty aromas give this wine an immediate sophistication. It is full in the mouth, showing almonds, ripe toastiness, coffee and tight acidity. It's ripe and full-bodied while keeping a more nervy character that allows it to finish with a great lift. It's ready to drink.

93

140

Champagne

Champagne Blend

58,180

US

Grippy blackberry and licorice wrap around an intriguing bouquet of Italian deli meats and spices, with sinewy tannins and unobtrusive oak. Given over a year in 40% new French oak, it proffers a subtle hit of pepper on the finish.

88

29

California

Malbec

34,806

Spain

This smells like fresh pavement at first, with gritty black-fruit and burnt leaf notes. The palate feels edgy, with a spotty red-fruit flavor that's matched with notes of resiny oak and vanilla. It finishes in a similar fashion. Novo Imports and Aidil Wines & Liquors.

85

14

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

104,361

US

Winemaker Bill Brosseau tapped into his family's vineyard to produce this light and delicate wine. Its aromas suggest white flowers, key lime and chalk, while its flavors are high-toned and tight, recalling chilled pear, lime and pomelo pith. A graphite-like minerality adds complexity.

92

49

California

Chardonnay

115,886

US

Ripe waves of juicy strawberry ride along an ocean of tight, firm tannins that need time to coalesce and soften. Complex, the fruit is complemented by spicy clove and black tea, giving a savory edge to the succulent fruit. It needs time, through 2020.

91

54

California

Pinot Noir

118,496

Argentina

Dark aromas of black cherry and plum are spicy and suggestive of crude oil. In the mouth, this everyday Cab shows juicy balance and clean lines. Standard black-fruit flavors come with spice notes and a harmonious, long finish.

88

10

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

56,233

US

This blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc is still quite fresh for being seven-years-old, offering aromas of concentrated red-cherry juice, allspice, sandalwood and nose-tickling cinnamon. Cedar and myrrh flavors lead the woody palate, where a buoyant acidity lifts up the red cherry and tart red-currant fruits.

91

79

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

121,701

France

The wine is tight with a strong mineral element over the acidity. It shows a sense of chalky terroir, full of red-currant fruits and a nervy aftertaste. It will take some time to fully develop, so wait until 2023.

93

109

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

67,621

US

This is the winery's best Nebula in years. While it's still a little on the soft, sweet side, the cool vintage has resonated in the wine's flavor, giving it a good structure housing cherry, currant and sandalwood flavors. Drink now.

87

29

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

59,676

US

A vivid yellow-gold color and creamy, butterscotchy flavors pile up the richness in this full-bodied wine. Great underlying acidity lifts up the wine for good balance and a lasting, tingly finish. The concentration and creaminess are wonderful to taste.

92

28

California

Chardonnay

91,213

Spain

Smoky and dark on the nose, with crusty black fruit aromas. It's short and tough in the mouth, with beaming acidity but only monoline red berry flavors. High acidity rears up again on the finish. Reflects the tough conditions of 2008.

86

25

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

45,844

US

While the concentrated flavors of peaches and sweet pears are pleasant, whiffs of smoke and toasted nuts lend a savory, rather atypical character to this dry Gewürz. It's dry and brisk, with soft, lemony acidity.

84

13

New York

Gewürztraminer

90,100

US

Big, upfront flavors mark this Cabernet, providing big blackberry, black cherry, mocha, vanilla and toast notes. It's very dry, tannic and a little aggressive at this time. It could develop bottle complexity over the years.

89

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

38,292

US

Scented with herbs, pine needles and a hint of pepper, this has a solid core of tart, wild-cherry fruit. The tannins are drying and show some stem flavors, but as the wine breathes it smoothes out and softens up.

90

48

Oregon

Pinot Noir

116,209

US

A little too sweet on the finish to recommend it as a balanced wine, this Gnarly Head from Lodi's old vines has about 16% Petite Sirah in it, too.

84

11

California

Zinfandel

884

US

Pretty dark in color and full bodied for a sparkling wine, even one that's majority Pinot Noir. But it's delicious and dry, which surely are prime requisites for any bubbly. Shows ripe, flashy raspberry, strawberry, orange, vanilla, honey, yeast and toast flavors, and the mouthfeel is silky and refined.

90

28

California

Sparkling Blend

90,768

US

Dark gold in color and intensely cradled in oak, this wine maintains a balance of complex, well-defined flavors of honey and apple, with lurking minerality that keeps it fresh and lively. It's lush and yet layered, a complete package. Drink now through 2020.

93

42

California

Chardonnay

6,163

US

Succulent and opulent, with ripe pineapple purée, Meyer lemon tart, kiwi fruit, pastry crust and tangy mineral flavors, enriched with the buttered toast and caramel of new oak.

89

29

California

Chardonnay

60,193

Spain

Smoky aromas of tree bark and tobacco blend with dried, earthy cherry and plum scents. This feels a bit raw and pulling, while dried cherry, plum and baking-spice flavors finish good but a touch hot and scratchy. Drink now.

88

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

60,514

US

Round and fruity, this differs from Willamette Valley Pinots, in that it's broad, fruit-driven, perhaps less complex but readily accessible and quite delicious immediately. Cherry lollipop, oranges and light tropical-fruit flavors abound. Drink while it's young and fresh—slightly chilled if you wish.

89

22

Oregon

Pinot Noir

36,758

France

Hints of fresh mint leaves highlight the brooding black currant and dark fruit aromas. The balance of Cabernet and Merlot has been successfully achieved, as the wine is beautifully structured with a firm backbone of ample tannins and a rich, supple mouthfeel.

86

32

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

21,299

Italy

Aromas of red berry, clove and star anise emerge on this lively, light-bodied red. The easygoing palate offers tart cherry, white pepper and an orange peel note alongside lithe tannins and bright acidity.

87

28

Tuscany

Red Blend

126,542

US

There's an exotic saltiness and briny ocean element to this memorable wine, grandly textured and integrated in terms of oak. Medium in weight, it finds balance between savory, spicy and salty tones and a crispness of Gravenstein apple.

91

51

California

Chardonnay

103,522

US

Full body, a broad texture and very ripe flavors give both heft and softness to this cedar- and brown-sugar-scented wine. The ample fruit flavors taste mature and fully ripe, like dried plums.

86

28

California

Pinot Noir

111,119

France

Well balanced, this red fruited-wine is also fully structured with a mineral background. With a dosage that brings out the texture as well as the fruit, this is a great apéritif-style of wine. Drink now.

88

50

Champagne

Champagne Blend

42,461

Italy

This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese offers earthy aromas of violet, plum, leather and meat juice. The palate delivers ripe blackberry, chocolate, orange zest, pepper and nutmeg flavors, all enveloped in smooth, round tannins.

88

26

Tuscany

Red Blend

75,545

US

They say the grapes come from Lake, Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. There are some pretty good black-currant and oak aromas, but the flavors are thin and sharp. It’s well made, as you’d expect. Still, the overall impression is lean and austere.

83

13

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

122,865

US

Aromas of raspberry, plum, freshly ground black pepper, herb and wood spice lead to pure tart cranberry and cherry flavors that bring a compelling feel. The tannins bring a light squeeze. It's a lovely example of the variety.

91

50

Washington

Malbec

84,243

France

Aromatically, this wine is still shy on nose and palate. Underneath that the linearity and inherent slenderness of ripe tangerine flesh and zest come though, enriched with an earthy notion of ripe pear. The palate is dry and energetic, but also still rather closed. The true colors are revealed on the finish, with a lasting pear note bundled on the concentrated, linear palate. Drink 2019–2030.

93

25

Alsace

Riesling

84,356

Germany

The little-known Mosel village of Reil is the source of this perplexing wine. It possesses attractive and slightly stony, citrus aromas, and starts off on the sweet side, with bright pineapple fruit. But somewhere on the palate it shifts gears, turning dry and tart almost to the point of being sour.

84

30

Mosel

Riesling

129,266

France

A well constructed, solid wine, this has a fine layer of firm tannins that melds well with the rich black plums and acidity. Even this young, the wine is showing a balanced character, warm and ripe. It will age, so drink from 2018.

90

35

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

41,443

Argentina

Saucy and briary smelling up front, with additional horsey, earthy berry aromas, this Malbec is chewy in feel, with baked berry and a hint of chocolate for flavors. A resiny, sticky finish tastes stewy and baked, with a leftover touch of chocolate.

86

15

Mendoza Province

Malbec

6,450

Italy

Here's a beautiful interpretation from the 2008 vintage that shows balance, harmony and intensity all zipped up into one tight package. That seamless integration, followed by rich extraction, gives the wine momentum overall. Although this is a different wine from past vintages, the quality is just as high. Hold 5–10 years.

94

65

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

40,063

France

With a sweet dosage, this is soft Blanc de Blancs. Pears, hints of apricots go with some crisp acidity. It still tastes young and needs time to integrate, but will always be on the sweet side of Brut.

87

46

Champagne

Chardonnay

74,941

US

After starting out reductive, this wine opens to reveal light aromas of fig and tropical fruit, seeming a bit muddled. The flavors, however, come through clearly, providing a textured feel.

88

19

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

116,777

US

Good for the winery for producing a Cab Franc that's truly distinct and interesting. It doesn't have a vineyard designation, but it's from the highly regarded Truchard vineyard. With a firm core of dusty tannins and a heart of blackberries, black cherries, currants and black pepper, it's elegant, complex and ageworthy.

92

40

California

Cabernet Franc

96,640

US

A new offering from the producer, this is a barrel-aged white chiseled in a complexity of melon, dried herb and lemongrass. With subtle hints of baked pineapple and papaya, it veers tropical without becoming overripe, finishing in refreshing waves of light, bright acidity.

90

28

California

Sauvignon Blanc

29,414

Italy

Aromas of French oak, roasted coffee bean, dark berry and menthol lead the nose. The ripe, full-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and a toasted note alongside assertive, close-grained tannins. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol that throws the finish off balance.

88

75

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

61,935

US

A thick, pasty wine with considerable tannins and a heavy-handed mouthfeel. Flavors are weedy and generic berry. Not going anywhere.

82

18

California

Pinot Noir

60,322

US

Don't let the evil-eye label scare you off. An earthy, beefy flavor gives this dry and medium-bodied wine a bit of an unusual but attractive personality. It feels firm and well-balanced on the palate, with good acidity and firm tannins.

86

15

California

Red Blend

96,117

US

This bold densely structured Chardonnay suggests notes of candied orange peel, preserved apple and pears accented with caramel and sweet spice. Delicate acidity accentuates a warm spicy finish.

87

35

New York

Chardonnay

92,235

Italy

Aromas of cooked fruit, stewed plum, toast, coffee and vanilla lead the nose. The warm palate offers up fleshy black cherry, mocha and a licorice note, with the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate. It's already accessible so drink soon.

87

55

Tuscany

Sangiovese

88,859

US

The winery held this back an additional six months after their other 2008 Pinots were released, presumably to let it become integrated. Still, it's quite tannic, with a sandpaper-like toughness. Despite the astringency, the massive wild-cherry, cola, mushroom and anise flavors come through. It's a huge wine, feral and untamed—quite exquisite in its wildness. So delicious now, it's hard to resist, but the wise collector will cellar it for 4–5 years, maybe even longer.

95

49

California

Pinot Noir