GroNLP/ik-nlp-22_winemag · Datasets at Hugging Face

index int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 8 values	description stringlengths 34 829	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 3.3k	province stringclasses 21 values	variety stringlengths 4 26
9,723	US	Aromas of café au lait, woodspice and dark fruit lead to full-bodied, hedonistic coffee flavors. The style is rich, mixing fruit and barrel.	90	24	Oregon	Syrah
78,033	France	Soft notions of apple blossom suggest a light touch. The palate comes in with earthy confidence and fluid harmony of pear, orange and mandarin. There is a directness in the concentration of this wine with its pleasant dryness garlanded in ripe, fresh fruit. It finishes clean.	90	21	Alsace	Riesling
111,178	US	Fresh and clean, with scents and flavors of ripe apples and a beery, leesy note. This blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 48% Chardonnay boasts an aggressive bead that gives it a brash, in-your-face quality ideal for casual summer sipping, less so for elegant, formal occasions.	84	16	Oregon	Sparkling Blend
45,598	US	This single-vineyard designate is labeled simply Oregon, but is actually Dundee Hills. Somewhat dilute fruit flavors suggest pomegranate and tart strawberries. Despite 18 months in half new French oak, the wood does not overwhelm the fruit, and the wine actually improves overnight. Give it a good decanting for optimum drinking.	87	32	Oregon	Pinot Noir
59,181	US	This is a very good Napa Cabernet, stylishly dry and smooth in tannins. It's rich in blackberries, cherries and sweet new oak, with earthier hints of dried sage and tobacco. Drink now–2016.	88	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
62,278	France	From one of the top Premier Cru vineyards in Beaune, this structured wine shows concentration and richness. Packed with tannins in its center, it is cushioned by the generous red berry and cherry fruits. The wine has a finely perfumed aftertaste. Drink from 2018.	93	57	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
109,687	France	This is an attractive, ripe style of Pinot Gris. Off dry, it is aromatic, lightly spicy over crisper pear and yellow fruit flavors. It's ready to drink.	85	19	Alsace	Pinot Gris
118,464	US	Young, tight and sharp-toned upon first sniff, this broadens out and opens up with an hour or two of airing. The pinpoint focus brings black raspberry, black cherry and light hints of tobacco into play. The 30% new oak seems just right, although there is some burn in the finish from the high alcohol.	89	38	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
5,464	US	There are some lean, green peppercorn, mint and herb flavors that suggest unripeness. The chilly vintage appears to have taken its toll, despite some well-oaked raspberry and cherry lushness. Drink up.	86	50	California	Pinot Noir
74,703	US	A Chardonnay at a decent price for what you get. It's sweet and creamy, with buttered toast, pineapple and peach fruit flavors that are accented with brisk acidity.	84	15	California	Chardonnay
120,046	Italy	Violet, rose, cherry, baking spice, Alpine herb and mineral are some of the aromas and flavors you'll find on this radiant Nebbiolo. Bright acidity and silky tannins balance the juicy palate. It's elegant and boasts great depth, but will continue to evolve for years. Drink through 2030.	94	60	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
117,646	US	This Pinot has an admirable delicacy, with fairly low alcohol and crisp acids keeping it silky, brisk and elegant in the mouth. The all-important flavors suggest raspberries and cola, with a long, spicy finish. It's a little simple now, but could gain traction after some time in the bottle.	88	55	California	Pinot Noir
27,996	Portugal	Young Touriga Nacional vines produced this crisp, refreshing wine. With red currant flavor and a light touch of caramel, it's both fruity and full in the mouth. Drink now.	86	15	Douro	Rosé
40,080	Portugal	Produced from organic grapes grown in the dry Côa valley, this is a pure, fruited wine with a black-plum-skin texture and firm tannins. With its layers of acidity, it is crisp at the end while remaining solidly textured. The wine needs to age further, drink from 2018.	90	20	Douro	Portuguese Red
98,101	Italy	A Brunello with broad shoulders and a powerful bouquet that delivers bright, bold aromas of ripe fruit, dark spice, leather and dried tobacco. The wine's structure and dark fruit flavors move evenly over the palate with smoothness and harmony.	93	60	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
30,666	US	Sharp in acidity, and not entirely ripe, with a wintergreen mint zest to the cherries. Needs a rich, well-marbled steak to soften it.	85	25	California	Pinot Noir
95,897	US	Quite dry, nicely structured, and sporting generous, fresh acidity, this food-friendly Pinot Gris has moderately ripe fruit flavors that emphasis citrus and lemon rind. The alcohol is just 13.5%.	87	15	Oregon	Pinot Gris
27,019	US	Dark pink-orange in color, this pungent 100% varietal wine was given no time in oak, allowing its crisp orange peel, grapefruit and cherry flavors to shine. Moderate acidity underlies the simple finish.	88	15	California	Zinfandel
43,928	US	Vinified by the former Margerum winemaker (who now works for Morgan Winery), this bottling from one of the appellation's most exciting vineyards is chock-full of baked red cherry, vanilla, clove and gravel aromas. Though light and bright in body, the palate packs intriguing flavors, from raspberry and rose petal to dried fennel and dill.	93	44	California	Pinot Noir
83,586	US	Big and tannic, but tempting and tasty at the same time, this wine tastes ripe, full bodied and fruity, wrapping a blanket of fine tannins around the richness to keep it from being too sweet or overripe. It's half Merlot and half Petite Sirah.	87	58	California	Red Blend
88,326	US	Light daffodil aromas mix with Key lime pie, soft pear flesh, pressed tuberose and apple blossoms on the nose of this relatively complex wine from an often simplistic grape. There is decent grip on the palate, with flavors of dried pome fruit, pencil lead minerality and a lemony tang.	90	16	California	Pinot Grigio
97,002	US	This is clean and fresh, with bright scents and flavors of pomegranate and raspberry. It feels good in the mouth, showing youthful punch and presence; the score could rise with another year or two in the bottle.	87	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
42,981	US	Chalky tannins and subdued fruit and tannin weight make this an inviting, food-friendly wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller amounts of Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Made from estate vineyards, it's rich in black cherry and dark chocolate, concentrated and layered. It ends in a spicy back note of pepper. Cellar through 2022.	93	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
55,552	Spain	Clean, stylish and easy to like, this has apple and green herb aromas. It shows a good weight and mouthfeel, with papaya, thyme and baked apple flavors. Medium long and smooth on the finish, this is a commendable value-priced bubbly.	88	11	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
2,124	France	This shows the rich density of Merlot in 2009, giving a solid structure, with dried fruit and red berry flavors and a concentrated line of tannins. Big and dense, this is ready to age.	88	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
78,398	US	A delicious Sauvignon Blanc, really fine. It showcases how well this cool little corner of Monterey County, with its stony soils, ripens white wines. Brisk in acidity and laden with minerals, it offers rich flavors of citrus fruits, white flowers, white currants and spices.	90	32	California	Sauvignon Blanc
24,724	US	Oaky flavors of caramel, honey and butterscotch dominate. It's dry and crisp in acidity, with suggestions of limes and mangoes.	85	25	California	Chardonnay
115,111	France	From old vines and only produced in top vintages, this ripe perfumed wine is impressive. Rich with tropical fruits, layers of vanilla and acidity, it is full, up-front and packed with concentrated flavors and textures. Like many wines from this appellation, it can age and will be better from 2019.	92	23	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
114,135	US	This stiff, herbal, low-priced wine is in a suddenly competitive category. It's muscular and compact, with tight, sharp cranberry fruit, overtaken by stem and herb flavors.	86	20	Oregon	Pinot Noir
20,346	US	Approachable and jubilant rose petal, root beer, charred meat and ripe cherry aromas show on the dynamic nose of this bottling. The flavors are tighter and more focused, recalling red cherry, rust, tobacco and lava rock minerality. Tannins coat the palate with a delicate grip.	91	38	California	Tempranillo
35,443	US	This pretty Pinot offers ripe fruit flavors of strawberry and cherry. There's a nice dash of chocolate and a supple, seamless mouthfeel, with all the components beautifully integrated.	91	49	Oregon	Pinot Noir
28,214	US	You could classify this as an off-dry wine, but it's just sweet and honeyed enough to be a dessert wine. With pleasant acidity providing balance, it shows flavors of ripe peaches, diesel, nectarines, apples, vanilla and buttercup flowers.	85	20	California	Riesling
76,912	US	Whiffs of leather and black pepper add complexity to concentrated black-fruit flavors in this bold yet surprisingly finessed Merlot. Tannins are a shade grippy and unripe, but add structure and power.	87	18	New York	Merlot
29,891	US	From the steepest, east-facing block of the estate vineyard, given 15% whole-cluster fermentation, this is a dense, brooding wine, spicy and concentrated in blueberry and black cherry. It has a tenacity of earthiness that never lets go, lingering on the full-bodied palate for days. Drink now through 2023.	94	70	California	Pinot Noir
92,880	US	Key-lime pith, light jasmine, lemongrass, kiwi and a touch of lemon brioche aromas show on the nose of this energetic and tasty wine by the Duckhorn crew. The palate is commanded by a great textural grip offering flavors of Gravenstein apple, sea salt and saltine cracker.	92	55	California	Chardonnay
36,816	US	The core strength here is the bright, pure fruit. Boysenberry and blackberry to be specific, along with interesting scents of rose petals. The finish brings in the sweet botanical flavors of Amaro.	89	28	Oregon	Syrah
55,726	US	Expensive, but brilliant. At the forefront of California Sauvignon Blanc. Shows bright and clean acidity framing intense tangerine, lime and honey flavors, as well as complications from oak. Yet it finishes bone dry and elegant. Delicious and compelling, this wine lifts Sauvignon Blanc into entirely new territory.	95	40	California	Sauvignon Blanc
102,003	US	Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, this tart and sharp-edged Washington Syrah sports bright berry fruit and just a hint of earth in the tannins. The acids are a little chalky, and there is a slight medicinal quality in the back of the mouth as the wine finishes.	84	30	Washington	Syrah
92,606	US	Lots of fresh flavors of summer berry, red currant, tobacco and spice are found in this smoothly tannic Zin. There's a sweetness to the fruit, but the wine is actually dry. It's a fine Zinfandel to drink with barbecue. It should be relatively easy to find, with production nearing 21,000 cases.	86	14	California	Zinfandel
63,551	Germany	Juicy succulent tangerine and yellow peach flavors meld on the palate of this forward fruity off-dry wine. On first taste, it's quite straightforward, but added attention reveals glimmers of spice, saffron and mineral complexities. Drink now through 2024.	90	22	Mosel	Riesling
3,007	US	A rich mix of red, blue and black fruit opens into a sappy, spicy midpalate. The lush fruits are highlighted by a wash of milk chocolate. At first tightly wound, the wine seems to show more oak flavors with air, hinting at licorice and Bourbon barrel.	93	55	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
12,186	US	Overly sweet and lacking in vibrant acidity, this Cab has candied flavors of cherries and raspberries. It's a clean, simple wine for drinking now.	84	80	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
15,595	US	This blend of 55% Mourvèdre, 39% Syrah and 6% Grenache comes from Syncline winemaker James Mantone. It brings generous aromas of white pepper, herbs, mulberry jam and dried tobacco. The palate packs a hefty punch with über rich, dense fruit flavors that coat the palate from end to end, leading to a warm, tart finish.	92	50	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
120,837	Italy	White spring flower, ripe pear and grilled herb aromas take center stage in this medium-bodied white. The bright, linear palate offers green apple and citrus flavors, with a hint of clove.	88	28	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
99,413	US	There's a purity and wholesome quality to this lovely Syrah. It's dry and soft as velvet, with rich flavors of blackberries, mocha, leather, violets, black pepper and sandalwood. Best now and for a year or two.	88	25	California	Syrah
123,067	Italy	Made with Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, this offers aromas of ripe red berry, fragrant blue flowers and grilled herb. The straightforward palate delivers dried black cherry, clove, black pepper and a hint of espresso. Fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity make it enjoyable now.	88	19	Tuscany	Red Blend
8,897	France	Firmly structured wine, which also boasts delicious jammy fruit, very ripe, very opulent. The tannins are sweet and rich, suggesting aging potential over 7–8 years and more. An impressive wine.	93	359	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
1,147	US	The aromas of cinnamon, kelp, and dried fruit are unusual and don't seem in harmony. The gamy flavors bring some appeal but don't entirely come together.	83	17	Washington	Merlot
67,178	Italy	This opens with earthy aromas of ripe dark fruit, scorched earth, game and truffle. The concentrated palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, sweet cake spice, tobacco and herb accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins and a vein of fresh acidity.	92	53	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
36,648	US	This is the first vintage of this 100% varietal, vineyard-designate for the producer, a mountaintop site 1,900 feet high. Red, rocky volcanic soils contribute a dusty concentration to the wine that shows a graceful grip of cranberry, cherry and currant wrapped in buoyant acidity. A wisp of smoke appears at the end.	92	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
85,376	US	Lots of acidity and steel in this bone-dry Chard. Also, pronounced toasty oak, with a butterscotch and caramel taste dominating. Fortunately there's a good underpinning of peach, pear and pineapple fruit.	87	20	California	Chardonnay
127,536	US	Extremely light in the glass, this bottling demonstrates both the delicate and action-packed aspects of the grape, much like many world-class Pinot Noirs. Vivacious and fruity bramble and hibiscus aromas meet with anise and nutmeg on the nose. The palate refreshes with red plum and spice flavors.	90	30	California	Grenache
12,082	US	Dry and acidic, this Chardonnay has a herbaceous earthiness, plus flavors of orange and pear.	86	40	California	Chardonnay
72,616	US	Cassis, menthol, black olive, and some alfalfa make for a complex bouquet. It's undoubtedly forward—red fruit, chocolate and vanilla on the palate—with a piercing quality that could subside with age. This wine has the stuff to please: it's round, mouthfilling and very correct.	90	35	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
33,906	Italy	Here's a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero and Ciliegiolo that opens with aromas of dark skinned fruit, underbrush and a whiff of leather. The easygoing palate delivers ripe Morello cherry, crushed black cherry, savory herb and a balsamic note alongside fresh acidity and smooth tannins. There's not a lot of complexity but it is delicious.	89	29	Tuscany	Red Blend
72,584	US	More like an off white in color than actually pink, this 100% barrel-fermented, free-drained wine shows lemon blossoms, Pink Lady apple and lime zest on a very restrained nose. The palate is lively with tantalizing acidity, and fresh with light Meyer lemon zest and juice flavors.	89	20	California	Pinot Noir
41,063	US	This vineyard-designate opens with a luxurious nose of cardamom and plummy blackberry seasoned with dried herb, and is seamless and soft on the palate. An oaky swathe of tannin dominates on the finish.	87	40	California	Cabernet Franc
78,286	US	This is a finely made mix of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, light golden in color and dripping in marzipan, hazelnuts and baked bread. Complex and layered, it's got a depth of soul around zesty acidity, staying fleshy and full on the tongue.	93	40	California	Sparkling Blend
100,343	France	With a vivid mousse, this ripe wine shows tannic structure as well as bright red berries. It is lively with a touch of spice as well as acidity. The aftertaste is soft and ripe from the relatively high dosage.	87	65	Champagne	Champagne Blend
125,218	US	Light aromas, light body and delicate peach and apple flavors make this slightly sweet wine simple and refreshing.	85	17	California	Sauvignon Blanc
5,753	France	Three barrels were made of this structured, tannic wine that offers a juicy balance between acidity and dark tannins. It is perfumed with acidity that cuts through the red berry and dry concentration. It is a dense wine, full of fruit. Drink from 2019.	92	160	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
2,897	France	This light-colored wine has a spicy character that points up the tannins as well as the red berry fruits. It has a light feeling, with refreshing acidity that shows strongly at the end. It's ready to drink.	86	26	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
118,393	US	From an estate vineyard only six miles from the ocean, this wine is steeped in coolness, from its sharply tuned pomegranate and tart cranberry to its mushroomy, damp earth tones and savory spice. Refined and light to medium bodied, it picks up a tight-grained, oaky, leathery intrigue on the finish.	90	50	California	Pinot Noir
115,653	US	A creamy texture and apple pie flavors make this so rich it's almost a dessert. It is not actually sweet but has a full body and lush viscosity, presumably from barrel fermentation. It shows the shaping influence that barrels can have on heft and mouthfeel without adding heavy oak flavors per se. Delicious!	91	20	California	Chardonnay
49,523	France	Strongly herbal, this Sauvignon Blanc-dominated wine is fruity and crisp, with a good depth of flavor. Refreshing acidity adds a tight edge to this young wine. Drink from late 2017.	87	16	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
68,814	US	Dried lime rinds, wet cement, pear blossoms, honeydew melon and tangerine show on the nose of this bottling that is ever-so-slightly pink in the glass. Honeysuckle flavors meet with ripe pear and apple on the palate that is a tad sweet.	86	13	California	Pinot Grigio
34,772	US	A healthy dose of Petite Sirah toughens this Zin, sourced from a benchland vineyard in the heart of the Dry Creek Valley. The wine opens with aromas of cinnamon bark and cranberry, a tugging mushroomy element standing by. Subtle notes of black pepper come into play on the finish.	86	36	California	Zinfandel
84,589	US	Sourced from Rodgers Creek Vineyard, this is an ethereal, feminine Pinot, sublime in color and texture, bright in tart cherry. Brisk in acidity, it offers an undercurrent of dried herbes de Provence, cinnamon and exotic spice, evolving in the glass as it goes.	94	30	California	Pinot Noir
21,675	US	A bistro style wine to drink with grilled meats and game birds. It's juicy and crisp, with flavors of cherries, licorice and spices, wrapped into a creamy texture. Really rocks.	88	18	California	Syrah
24,975	Spain	Grassy white-fruit aromas are basic. This feels soft and easy, with mild acidity. Basic white-fruit flavors are undistinguished and are mellow on the finish. Everything about this brut strikes as good but standard.	87	17	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
125,114	Spain	Mild citrus, melon and peach aromas are clean. This wine feels solid and a touch plump, but with agility. Peach and melon flavors are simple, and it's fresh, tasty and fairly elegant on the finish.	88	14	Northern Spain	Rosé
15,694	France	From 70-year-old vines, with a low yield of tiny berries, this is a very textured, concentrated wine with a tight and mineral character. Melon and pear are shot through with intense citrus and wood flavors. It's a wine with structure, needing to age. Drink from 2017.	92	56	Burgundy	Chardonnay
87,053	Spain	Bready and yeasty smelling upfront, this feels round but also dry on the palate. Briny, pickled, yeasty flavors lead way to a salty finish. Quickly dissipating bubbles render it more of a demi-sec.	86	23	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
41,905	US	This appellation remains a standout for the variety, as evidenced by this 100% varietal wine that's mouthwatering in stone fruit and cantaloupe flavors. The aromatics center around pretty jasmine and lime zest aromas, while the palate is structured, crisp and fruity, all in good measure.	90	32	California	Sauvignon Blanc
92,791	France	Pale in color, this is a drier than usual Rosé d'Anjou. It is fresh, soft with attractive wild strawberry fruits and a touch of orange peel. The wine has a tangy texture that makes it extra refreshing. Drink now.	87	11	Loire Valley	Rosé
82,431	US	Smells and tastes overoaked, with toothpicky vanilla and smoky char notes. The amount of new French wood was 50%. The jammy raspberry, cherry and currant fruit just isn't intense or complex enough to support all that weight. Drink now.	86	44	California	Pinot Noir
82,253	US	A touch riper and richer than the Hillside, McCall's Reserve Pinot Noir offers fleshy, penetrating black-cherry flavor cooled by a vein of menthol and herbs. It's luscious and velvety on the palate yet totally poised, bolstered by brisk acidity and persistent but fine tannins. Drinks well already but should hold nicely through 2025.	92	75	New York	Pinot Noir
73,849	US	Red cherries, dark spices of clove and anise and gingerbread show on the nose of this wine from the Foley family portfolio. Darkness pervades the concentrated palate, with black fruits, dark chocolate, beef char and condensed purple flowers. It's so deep that it lacks noticeable flavor layers.	87	40	California	Merlot
49,359	US	A bit more oxidized style of Riesling from Buellton-based winemaker John Wright, this delivers aromas of baking bread, roasted almonds and toast with marmalade. The rich yet lively wine relies more on tannins than tart acidity, with flavors of honey-laced brioche and seared marshmallow.	89	24	California	Riesling
40,845	Italy	Aromas of truffle, tilled soil, dark berry and a whiff of blue flower lead the nose on this easygoing red. The lithe palate delivers dark cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside supple tannins and bright acidity.	87	22	Tuscany	Sangiovese
84,908	US	Hot pink in color, this wine offers aromas of bubblegum and cherry. It drinks dry with a stretched-out finish.	86	18	Washington	Rosé
43,952	US	Sourced from seven different vineyards across the appellation, this ripe Pinot is savory in flavor, seasoning the dark cherry fruit at its center with spicy cardamom and cinnamon. On the palate comes a taste of thick oak and bacon with sizable tannins.	88	38	California	Pinot Noir
15,726	France	This attractive, juicy wine is full of red fruit. It has strawberry and crisp red currant flavors as well as fine acidity. The result is a wine with good balance, richness, spice and tannins. Drink from 2019.	91	18	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
85,786	France	There is a distinct tannic edge to this 100% Pinot Noir Champagne. It gives a firm character and with spice as well as red fruits and citrus. These elements, not quite integrated, show the wine needs to age further. Drink from 2019.	89	100	Champagne	Pinot Noir
41,525	Italy	Grilled herb, dark spice, toast and leather aromas lead the nose. The palate is vigorous, marked by orange zest, dried cherry and thyme notes held together by tightly wound tannins.	87	17	Tuscany	Red Blend
31,658	US	Apple blossoms and yellow cherries abound on this very pretty, exuberant wine. Sweet stone-fruit flavors are juicy and ripe, but offset by a bristling streak of acidity. Enjoy now for it's youthful perfume.	89	16	New York	Riesling
30,286	Italy	With fruit harvested from 650 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Etna (making this one of the highest altitude vineyards in Italy), this bright red blend shows small berry nuances, with tangy almond, crushed clove and menthol notes. Drying mineral notes bring up the rear.	87	18	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
70,469	France	This is a tough wine, packed more with tannins than fruit. A bitter chocolate character comes from over-extraction of the tannins. The fruit is slow in coming, although there are hints of juiciness. Give it until 2017.	84	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
1,608	US	Vanilla, coconut and toast aromas are vibrant and out-front, followed by tropical fruit. This wine is full bodied with a viscous, almost oily feel that persists through the finish. It offers some good things, but the variety gets lost in the style.	87	30	Washington	Chardonnay
58,329	Italy	The nose isn't very expressive but eventually reveals fig and raisin aromas. The simple palate offers raw, red cherry alongside brisk acidity and firm tannins.	87	45	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
101,643	US	This appellation blend is rich and lush with baked black-cherry aromas, touches of black cardamom and clove spice, and earthy rhubarb and beet notes. The palate packs a lot of forest-floor flavors, from loam to pine needles, into dark cranberry and tight raspberry fruit, leveled by pepper and pencil lead.	89	45	California	Pinot Noir
85,199	Italy	Aromas of rose, red berry, espresso, grilled herb and toast lead the nose. The taut palate offers crunchy red cherry, raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside tightly wound, assertive tannins. It closes on a note of roasted coffee bean.	90	100	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
8,584	US	Very tight now, with minerally, yeasty flavors of lees and unintegrated smoky new oak. High acidity adds to the impression of austerity. Difficult to appreciate in its infancy, but this elegant, layered, complex Chard should begin to blossom after 2008 and hold for several years.	89	26	California	Chardonnay
100,814	Spain	Roasted and rustic smelling, with baked, brushy berry aromas. The palate is fresh, forward and well focused, with briary, roasted flavors of earthy berry and chocolate. Finishes with toasty oak flavors, chocolate and herbs along with heat and spice.	88	16	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
41,890	US	Very light in the glass, this bottling is fruit punch-like, with prominent pomegranate, cranberry and raspberry notes, alongside cola aromas. The palate is reminiscent of cran-raspberry soda: simple, light and easy, with a touch of licorice to spice it up.	85	17	California	Pinot Noir
77,732	US	Even though this Pinot Noir is instantly likeable for satisfying richness, it has some nuances. Flatters right off the bat with a soft texture housing lush raspberry and cherry pie filling, cola and sandalwood flavors that are easy to appreciate. But there are interesting mineral complexities. Drink soon.	92	36	California	Pinot Noir
28,173	US	Stainless-steel fermented, this wine remains pungently aromatic in woody, earthy tones, with accents of fragrant orange blossom and pear, while staying crisp and light on the palate. Honey and lemon combine on the complex finish.	90	18	California	Gewürztraminer
104,010	Italy	“Bolle,” which is Italian for “bubbles,” plays up its cheerful and playful side with bright aromas of citrus, peach, passion fruit and green apple. It washes down easily thanks to the wine's natural acidity.	86	15	Veneto	Glera
51,269	US	A super-delicious candy bar of a wine, with melted blackberry jam, milk chocolate and cassis liqueur flavors, sprinkled with black pepper and star anise. There's a brown sugar quality, but the finish actually is dry. Great price for a wine held back long enough by the producer to begin to soften and mellow. Drink now–2018.	90	25	California	Syrah
15,745	US	Aromatic fruit and floral notes join delicious honeydew melon flavors as this full-bodied wine wraps around the tongue, leaving a soft smooth impression and lingering on the finish. Very good concentration, layers of flavor and that lasting finish lift this wine above the ordinary.	91	18	California	Viognier

9,723

US

Aromas of café au lait, woodspice and dark fruit lead to full-bodied, hedonistic coffee flavors. The style is rich, mixing fruit and barrel.

90

24

Oregon

Syrah

78,033

France

Soft notions of apple blossom suggest a light touch. The palate comes in with earthy confidence and fluid harmony of pear, orange and mandarin. There is a directness in the concentration of this wine with its pleasant dryness garlanded in ripe, fresh fruit. It finishes clean.

90

21

Alsace

Riesling

111,178

US

Fresh and clean, with scents and flavors of ripe apples and a beery, leesy note. This blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 48% Chardonnay boasts an aggressive bead that gives it a brash, in-your-face quality ideal for casual summer sipping, less so for elegant, formal occasions.

84

16

Oregon

Sparkling Blend

45,598

US

This single-vineyard designate is labeled simply Oregon, but is actually Dundee Hills. Somewhat dilute fruit flavors suggest pomegranate and tart strawberries. Despite 18 months in half new French oak, the wood does not overwhelm the fruit, and the wine actually improves overnight. Give it a good decanting for optimum drinking.

87

32

Oregon

Pinot Noir

59,181

US

This is a very good Napa Cabernet, stylishly dry and smooth in tannins. It's rich in blackberries, cherries and sweet new oak, with earthier hints of dried sage and tobacco. Drink now–2016.

88

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

62,278

France

From one of the top Premier Cru vineyards in Beaune, this structured wine shows concentration and richness. Packed with tannins in its center, it is cushioned by the generous red berry and cherry fruits. The wine has a finely perfumed aftertaste. Drink from 2018.

93

57

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

109,687

France

This is an attractive, ripe style of Pinot Gris. Off dry, it is aromatic, lightly spicy over crisper pear and yellow fruit flavors. It's ready to drink.

85

19

Alsace

Pinot Gris

118,464

US

Young, tight and sharp-toned upon first sniff, this broadens out and opens up with an hour or two of airing. The pinpoint focus brings black raspberry, black cherry and light hints of tobacco into play. The 30% new oak seems just right, although there is some burn in the finish from the high alcohol.

89

38

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

5,464

US

There are some lean, green peppercorn, mint and herb flavors that suggest unripeness. The chilly vintage appears to have taken its toll, despite some well-oaked raspberry and cherry lushness. Drink up.

86

50

California

Pinot Noir

74,703

US

A Chardonnay at a decent price for what you get. It's sweet and creamy, with buttered toast, pineapple and peach fruit flavors that are accented with brisk acidity.

84

15

California

Chardonnay

120,046

Italy

Violet, rose, cherry, baking spice, Alpine herb and mineral are some of the aromas and flavors you'll find on this radiant Nebbiolo. Bright acidity and silky tannins balance the juicy palate. It's elegant and boasts great depth, but will continue to evolve for years. Drink through 2030.

94

60

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

117,646

US

This Pinot has an admirable delicacy, with fairly low alcohol and crisp acids keeping it silky, brisk and elegant in the mouth. The all-important flavors suggest raspberries and cola, with a long, spicy finish. It's a little simple now, but could gain traction after some time in the bottle.

88

55

California

Pinot Noir

27,996

Portugal

Young Touriga Nacional vines produced this crisp, refreshing wine. With red currant flavor and a light touch of caramel, it's both fruity and full in the mouth. Drink now.

86

15

Douro

Rosé

40,080

Portugal

Produced from organic grapes grown in the dry Côa valley, this is a pure, fruited wine with a black-plum-skin texture and firm tannins. With its layers of acidity, it is crisp at the end while remaining solidly textured. The wine needs to age further, drink from 2018.

90

20

Douro

Portuguese Red

98,101

Italy

A Brunello with broad shoulders and a powerful bouquet that delivers bright, bold aromas of ripe fruit, dark spice, leather and dried tobacco. The wine's structure and dark fruit flavors move evenly over the palate with smoothness and harmony.

93

60

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

30,666

US

Sharp in acidity, and not entirely ripe, with a wintergreen mint zest to the cherries. Needs a rich, well-marbled steak to soften it.

85

25

California

Pinot Noir

95,897

US

Quite dry, nicely structured, and sporting generous, fresh acidity, this food-friendly Pinot Gris has moderately ripe fruit flavors that emphasis citrus and lemon rind. The alcohol is just 13.5%.

87

15

Oregon

Pinot Gris

27,019

US

Dark pink-orange in color, this pungent 100% varietal wine was given no time in oak, allowing its crisp orange peel, grapefruit and cherry flavors to shine. Moderate acidity underlies the simple finish.

88

15

California

Zinfandel

43,928

US

Vinified by the former Margerum winemaker (who now works for Morgan Winery), this bottling from one of the appellation's most exciting vineyards is chock-full of baked red cherry, vanilla, clove and gravel aromas. Though light and bright in body, the palate packs intriguing flavors, from raspberry and rose petal to dried fennel and dill.

93

44

California

Pinot Noir

83,586

US

Big and tannic, but tempting and tasty at the same time, this wine tastes ripe, full bodied and fruity, wrapping a blanket of fine tannins around the richness to keep it from being too sweet or overripe. It's half Merlot and half Petite Sirah.

87

58

California

Red Blend

88,326

US

Light daffodil aromas mix with Key lime pie, soft pear flesh, pressed tuberose and apple blossoms on the nose of this relatively complex wine from an often simplistic grape. There is decent grip on the palate, with flavors of dried pome fruit, pencil lead minerality and a lemony tang.

90

16

California

Pinot Grigio

97,002

US

This is clean and fresh, with bright scents and flavors of pomegranate and raspberry. It feels good in the mouth, showing youthful punch and presence; the score could rise with another year or two in the bottle.

87

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

42,981

US

Chalky tannins and subdued fruit and tannin weight make this an inviting, food-friendly wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller amounts of Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Made from estate vineyards, it's rich in black cherry and dark chocolate, concentrated and layered. It ends in a spicy back note of pepper. Cellar through 2022.

93

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

55,552

Spain

Clean, stylish and easy to like, this has apple and green herb aromas. It shows a good weight and mouthfeel, with papaya, thyme and baked apple flavors. Medium long and smooth on the finish, this is a commendable value-priced bubbly.

88

11

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

2,124

France

This shows the rich density of Merlot in 2009, giving a solid structure, with dried fruit and red berry flavors and a concentrated line of tannins. Big and dense, this is ready to age.

88

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

78,398

US

A delicious Sauvignon Blanc, really fine. It showcases how well this cool little corner of Monterey County, with its stony soils, ripens white wines. Brisk in acidity and laden with minerals, it offers rich flavors of citrus fruits, white flowers, white currants and spices.

90

32

California

Sauvignon Blanc

24,724

US

Oaky flavors of caramel, honey and butterscotch dominate. It's dry and crisp in acidity, with suggestions of limes and mangoes.

85

25

California

Chardonnay

115,111

France

From old vines and only produced in top vintages, this ripe perfumed wine is impressive. Rich with tropical fruits, layers of vanilla and acidity, it is full, up-front and packed with concentrated flavors and textures. Like many wines from this appellation, it can age and will be better from 2019.

92

23

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

114,135

US

This stiff, herbal, low-priced wine is in a suddenly competitive category. It's muscular and compact, with tight, sharp cranberry fruit, overtaken by stem and herb flavors.

86

20

Oregon

Pinot Noir

20,346

US

Approachable and jubilant rose petal, root beer, charred meat and ripe cherry aromas show on the dynamic nose of this bottling. The flavors are tighter and more focused, recalling red cherry, rust, tobacco and lava rock minerality. Tannins coat the palate with a delicate grip.

91

38

California

Tempranillo

35,443

US

This pretty Pinot offers ripe fruit flavors of strawberry and cherry. There's a nice dash of chocolate and a supple, seamless mouthfeel, with all the components beautifully integrated.

91

49

Oregon

Pinot Noir

28,214

US

You could classify this as an off-dry wine, but it's just sweet and honeyed enough to be a dessert wine. With pleasant acidity providing balance, it shows flavors of ripe peaches, diesel, nectarines, apples, vanilla and buttercup flowers.

85

20

California

Riesling

76,912

US

Whiffs of leather and black pepper add complexity to concentrated black-fruit flavors in this bold yet surprisingly finessed Merlot. Tannins are a shade grippy and unripe, but add structure and power.

87

18

New York

Merlot

29,891

US

From the steepest, east-facing block of the estate vineyard, given 15% whole-cluster fermentation, this is a dense, brooding wine, spicy and concentrated in blueberry and black cherry. It has a tenacity of earthiness that never lets go, lingering on the full-bodied palate for days. Drink now through 2023.

94

70

California

Pinot Noir

92,880

US

Key-lime pith, light jasmine, lemongrass, kiwi and a touch of lemon brioche aromas show on the nose of this energetic and tasty wine by the Duckhorn crew. The palate is commanded by a great textural grip offering flavors of Gravenstein apple, sea salt and saltine cracker.

92

55

California

Chardonnay

36,816

US

The core strength here is the bright, pure fruit. Boysenberry and blackberry to be specific, along with interesting scents of rose petals. The finish brings in the sweet botanical flavors of Amaro.

89

28

Oregon

Syrah

55,726

US

Expensive, but brilliant. At the forefront of California Sauvignon Blanc. Shows bright and clean acidity framing intense tangerine, lime and honey flavors, as well as complications from oak. Yet it finishes bone dry and elegant. Delicious and compelling, this wine lifts Sauvignon Blanc into entirely new territory.

95

40

California

Sauvignon Blanc

102,003

US

Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, this tart and sharp-edged Washington Syrah sports bright berry fruit and just a hint of earth in the tannins. The acids are a little chalky, and there is a slight medicinal quality in the back of the mouth as the wine finishes.

84

30

Washington

Syrah

92,606

US

Lots of fresh flavors of summer berry, red currant, tobacco and spice are found in this smoothly tannic Zin. There's a sweetness to the fruit, but the wine is actually dry. It's a fine Zinfandel to drink with barbecue. It should be relatively easy to find, with production nearing 21,000 cases.

86

14

California

Zinfandel

63,551

Germany

Juicy succulent tangerine and yellow peach flavors meld on the palate of this forward fruity off-dry wine. On first taste, it's quite straightforward, but added attention reveals glimmers of spice, saffron and mineral complexities. Drink now through 2024.

90

22

Mosel

Riesling

3,007

US

A rich mix of red, blue and black fruit opens into a sappy, spicy midpalate. The lush fruits are highlighted by a wash of milk chocolate. At first tightly wound, the wine seems to show more oak flavors with air, hinting at licorice and Bourbon barrel.

93

55

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

12,186

US

Overly sweet and lacking in vibrant acidity, this Cab has candied flavors of cherries and raspberries. It's a clean, simple wine for drinking now.

84

80

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

15,595

US

This blend of 55% Mourvèdre, 39% Syrah and 6% Grenache comes from Syncline winemaker James Mantone. It brings generous aromas of white pepper, herbs, mulberry jam and dried tobacco. The palate packs a hefty punch with über rich, dense fruit flavors that coat the palate from end to end, leading to a warm, tart finish.

92

50

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

120,837

Italy

White spring flower, ripe pear and grilled herb aromas take center stage in this medium-bodied white. The bright, linear palate offers green apple and citrus flavors, with a hint of clove.

88

28

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

99,413

US

There's a purity and wholesome quality to this lovely Syrah. It's dry and soft as velvet, with rich flavors of blackberries, mocha, leather, violets, black pepper and sandalwood. Best now and for a year or two.

88

25

California

Syrah

123,067

Italy

Made with Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, this offers aromas of ripe red berry, fragrant blue flowers and grilled herb. The straightforward palate delivers dried black cherry, clove, black pepper and a hint of espresso. Fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity make it enjoyable now.

88

19

Tuscany

Red Blend

8,897

France

Firmly structured wine, which also boasts delicious jammy fruit, very ripe, very opulent. The tannins are sweet and rich, suggesting aging potential over 7–8 years and more. An impressive wine.

93

359

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

1,147

US

The aromas of cinnamon, kelp, and dried fruit are unusual and don't seem in harmony. The gamy flavors bring some appeal but don't entirely come together.

83

17

Washington

Merlot

67,178

Italy

This opens with earthy aromas of ripe dark fruit, scorched earth, game and truffle. The concentrated palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, sweet cake spice, tobacco and herb accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins and a vein of fresh acidity.

92

53

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

36,648

US

This is the first vintage of this 100% varietal, vineyard-designate for the producer, a mountaintop site 1,900 feet high. Red, rocky volcanic soils contribute a dusty concentration to the wine that shows a graceful grip of cranberry, cherry and currant wrapped in buoyant acidity. A wisp of smoke appears at the end.

92

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

85,376

US

Lots of acidity and steel in this bone-dry Chard. Also, pronounced toasty oak, with a butterscotch and caramel taste dominating. Fortunately there's a good underpinning of peach, pear and pineapple fruit.

87

20

California

Chardonnay

127,536

US

Extremely light in the glass, this bottling demonstrates both the delicate and action-packed aspects of the grape, much like many world-class Pinot Noirs. Vivacious and fruity bramble and hibiscus aromas meet with anise and nutmeg on the nose. The palate refreshes with red plum and spice flavors.

90

30

California

Grenache

12,082

US

Dry and acidic, this Chardonnay has a herbaceous earthiness, plus flavors of orange and pear.

86

40

California

Chardonnay

72,616

US

Cassis, menthol, black olive, and some alfalfa make for a complex bouquet. It's undoubtedly forward—red fruit, chocolate and vanilla on the palate—with a piercing quality that could subside with age. This wine has the stuff to please: it's round, mouthfilling and very correct.

90

35

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

33,906

Italy

Here's a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero and Ciliegiolo that opens with aromas of dark skinned fruit, underbrush and a whiff of leather. The easygoing palate delivers ripe Morello cherry, crushed black cherry, savory herb and a balsamic note alongside fresh acidity and smooth tannins. There's not a lot of complexity but it is delicious.

89

29

Tuscany

Red Blend

72,584

US

More like an off white in color than actually pink, this 100% barrel-fermented, free-drained wine shows lemon blossoms, Pink Lady apple and lime zest on a very restrained nose. The palate is lively with tantalizing acidity, and fresh with light Meyer lemon zest and juice flavors.

89

20

California

Pinot Noir

41,063

US

This vineyard-designate opens with a luxurious nose of cardamom and plummy blackberry seasoned with dried herb, and is seamless and soft on the palate. An oaky swathe of tannin dominates on the finish.

87

40

California

Cabernet Franc

78,286

US

This is a finely made mix of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, light golden in color and dripping in marzipan, hazelnuts and baked bread. Complex and layered, it's got a depth of soul around zesty acidity, staying fleshy and full on the tongue.

93

40

California

Sparkling Blend

100,343

France

With a vivid mousse, this ripe wine shows tannic structure as well as bright red berries. It is lively with a touch of spice as well as acidity. The aftertaste is soft and ripe from the relatively high dosage.

87

65

Champagne

Champagne Blend

125,218

US

Light aromas, light body and delicate peach and apple flavors make this slightly sweet wine simple and refreshing.

85

17

California

Sauvignon Blanc

5,753

France

Three barrels were made of this structured, tannic wine that offers a juicy balance between acidity and dark tannins. It is perfumed with acidity that cuts through the red berry and dry concentration. It is a dense wine, full of fruit. Drink from 2019.

92

160

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

2,897

France

This light-colored wine has a spicy character that points up the tannins as well as the red berry fruits. It has a light feeling, with refreshing acidity that shows strongly at the end. It's ready to drink.

86

26

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

118,393

US

From an estate vineyard only six miles from the ocean, this wine is steeped in coolness, from its sharply tuned pomegranate and tart cranberry to its mushroomy, damp earth tones and savory spice. Refined and light to medium bodied, it picks up a tight-grained, oaky, leathery intrigue on the finish.

90

50

California

Pinot Noir

115,653

US

A creamy texture and apple pie flavors make this so rich it's almost a dessert. It is not actually sweet but has a full body and lush viscosity, presumably from barrel fermentation. It shows the shaping influence that barrels can have on heft and mouthfeel without adding heavy oak flavors per se. Delicious!

91

20

California

Chardonnay

49,523

France

Strongly herbal, this Sauvignon Blanc-dominated wine is fruity and crisp, with a good depth of flavor. Refreshing acidity adds a tight edge to this young wine. Drink from late 2017.

87

16

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

68,814

US

Dried lime rinds, wet cement, pear blossoms, honeydew melon and tangerine show on the nose of this bottling that is ever-so-slightly pink in the glass. Honeysuckle flavors meet with ripe pear and apple on the palate that is a tad sweet.

86

13

California

Pinot Grigio

34,772

US

A healthy dose of Petite Sirah toughens this Zin, sourced from a benchland vineyard in the heart of the Dry Creek Valley. The wine opens with aromas of cinnamon bark and cranberry, a tugging mushroomy element standing by. Subtle notes of black pepper come into play on the finish.

86

36

California

Zinfandel

84,589

US

Sourced from Rodgers Creek Vineyard, this is an ethereal, feminine Pinot, sublime in color and texture, bright in tart cherry. Brisk in acidity, it offers an undercurrent of dried herbes de Provence, cinnamon and exotic spice, evolving in the glass as it goes.

94

30

California

Pinot Noir

21,675

US

A bistro style wine to drink with grilled meats and game birds. It's juicy and crisp, with flavors of cherries, licorice and spices, wrapped into a creamy texture. Really rocks.

88

18

California

Syrah

24,975

Spain

Grassy white-fruit aromas are basic. This feels soft and easy, with mild acidity. Basic white-fruit flavors are undistinguished and are mellow on the finish. Everything about this brut strikes as good but standard.

87

17

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

125,114

Spain

Mild citrus, melon and peach aromas are clean. This wine feels solid and a touch plump, but with agility. Peach and melon flavors are simple, and it's fresh, tasty and fairly elegant on the finish.

88

14

Northern Spain

Rosé

15,694

France

From 70-year-old vines, with a low yield of tiny berries, this is a very textured, concentrated wine with a tight and mineral character. Melon and pear are shot through with intense citrus and wood flavors. It's a wine with structure, needing to age. Drink from 2017.

92

56

Burgundy

Chardonnay

87,053

Spain

Bready and yeasty smelling upfront, this feels round but also dry on the palate. Briny, pickled, yeasty flavors lead way to a salty finish. Quickly dissipating bubbles render it more of a demi-sec.

86

23

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

41,905

US

This appellation remains a standout for the variety, as evidenced by this 100% varietal wine that's mouthwatering in stone fruit and cantaloupe flavors. The aromatics center around pretty jasmine and lime zest aromas, while the palate is structured, crisp and fruity, all in good measure.

90

32

California

Sauvignon Blanc

92,791

France

Pale in color, this is a drier than usual Rosé d'Anjou. It is fresh, soft with attractive wild strawberry fruits and a touch of orange peel. The wine has a tangy texture that makes it extra refreshing. Drink now.

87

11

Loire Valley

Rosé

82,431

US

Smells and tastes overoaked, with toothpicky vanilla and smoky char notes. The amount of new French wood was 50%. The jammy raspberry, cherry and currant fruit just isn't intense or complex enough to support all that weight. Drink now.

86

44

California

Pinot Noir

82,253

US

A touch riper and richer than the Hillside, McCall's Reserve Pinot Noir offers fleshy, penetrating black-cherry flavor cooled by a vein of menthol and herbs. It's luscious and velvety on the palate yet totally poised, bolstered by brisk acidity and persistent but fine tannins. Drinks well already but should hold nicely through 2025.

92

75

New York

Pinot Noir

73,849

US

Red cherries, dark spices of clove and anise and gingerbread show on the nose of this wine from the Foley family portfolio. Darkness pervades the concentrated palate, with black fruits, dark chocolate, beef char and condensed purple flowers. It's so deep that it lacks noticeable flavor layers.

87

40

California

Merlot

49,359

US

A bit more oxidized style of Riesling from Buellton-based winemaker John Wright, this delivers aromas of baking bread, roasted almonds and toast with marmalade. The rich yet lively wine relies more on tannins than tart acidity, with flavors of honey-laced brioche and seared marshmallow.

89

24

California

Riesling

40,845

Italy

Aromas of truffle, tilled soil, dark berry and a whiff of blue flower lead the nose on this easygoing red. The lithe palate delivers dark cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside supple tannins and bright acidity.

87

22

Tuscany

Sangiovese

84,908

US

Hot pink in color, this wine offers aromas of bubblegum and cherry. It drinks dry with a stretched-out finish.

86

18

Washington

Rosé

43,952

US

Sourced from seven different vineyards across the appellation, this ripe Pinot is savory in flavor, seasoning the dark cherry fruit at its center with spicy cardamom and cinnamon. On the palate comes a taste of thick oak and bacon with sizable tannins.

88

38

California

Pinot Noir

15,726

France

This attractive, juicy wine is full of red fruit. It has strawberry and crisp red currant flavors as well as fine acidity. The result is a wine with good balance, richness, spice and tannins. Drink from 2019.

91

18

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

85,786

France

There is a distinct tannic edge to this 100% Pinot Noir Champagne. It gives a firm character and with spice as well as red fruits and citrus. These elements, not quite integrated, show the wine needs to age further. Drink from 2019.

89

100

Champagne

Pinot Noir

41,525

Italy

Grilled herb, dark spice, toast and leather aromas lead the nose. The palate is vigorous, marked by orange zest, dried cherry and thyme notes held together by tightly wound tannins.

87

17

Tuscany

Red Blend

31,658

US

Apple blossoms and yellow cherries abound on this very pretty, exuberant wine. Sweet stone-fruit flavors are juicy and ripe, but offset by a bristling streak of acidity. Enjoy now for it's youthful perfume.

89

16

New York

Riesling

30,286

Italy

With fruit harvested from 650 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Etna (making this one of the highest altitude vineyards in Italy), this bright red blend shows small berry nuances, with tangy almond, crushed clove and menthol notes. Drying mineral notes bring up the rear.

87

18

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

70,469

France

This is a tough wine, packed more with tannins than fruit. A bitter chocolate character comes from over-extraction of the tannins. The fruit is slow in coming, although there are hints of juiciness. Give it until 2017.

84

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

1,608

US

Vanilla, coconut and toast aromas are vibrant and out-front, followed by tropical fruit. This wine is full bodied with a viscous, almost oily feel that persists through the finish. It offers some good things, but the variety gets lost in the style.

87

30

Washington

Chardonnay

58,329

Italy

The nose isn't very expressive but eventually reveals fig and raisin aromas. The simple palate offers raw, red cherry alongside brisk acidity and firm tannins.

87

45

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

101,643

US

This appellation blend is rich and lush with baked black-cherry aromas, touches of black cardamom and clove spice, and earthy rhubarb and beet notes. The palate packs a lot of forest-floor flavors, from loam to pine needles, into dark cranberry and tight raspberry fruit, leveled by pepper and pencil lead.

89

45

California

Pinot Noir

85,199

Italy

Aromas of rose, red berry, espresso, grilled herb and toast lead the nose. The taut palate offers crunchy red cherry, raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside tightly wound, assertive tannins. It closes on a note of roasted coffee bean.

90

100

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

8,584

US

Very tight now, with minerally, yeasty flavors of lees and unintegrated smoky new oak. High acidity adds to the impression of austerity. Difficult to appreciate in its infancy, but this elegant, layered, complex Chard should begin to blossom after 2008 and hold for several years.

89

26

California

Chardonnay

100,814

Spain

Roasted and rustic smelling, with baked, brushy berry aromas. The palate is fresh, forward and well focused, with briary, roasted flavors of earthy berry and chocolate. Finishes with toasty oak flavors, chocolate and herbs along with heat and spice.

88

16

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

41,890

US

Very light in the glass, this bottling is fruit punch-like, with prominent pomegranate, cranberry and raspberry notes, alongside cola aromas. The palate is reminiscent of cran-raspberry soda: simple, light and easy, with a touch of licorice to spice it up.

85

17

California

Pinot Noir

77,732

US

Even though this Pinot Noir is instantly likeable for satisfying richness, it has some nuances. Flatters right off the bat with a soft texture housing lush raspberry and cherry pie filling, cola and sandalwood flavors that are easy to appreciate. But there are interesting mineral complexities. Drink soon.

92

36

California

Pinot Noir

28,173

US

Stainless-steel fermented, this wine remains pungently aromatic in woody, earthy tones, with accents of fragrant orange blossom and pear, while staying crisp and light on the palate. Honey and lemon combine on the complex finish.

90

18

California

Gewürztraminer

104,010

Italy

“Bolle,” which is Italian for “bubbles,” plays up its cheerful and playful side with bright aromas of citrus, peach, passion fruit and green apple. It washes down easily thanks to the wine's natural acidity.

86

15

Veneto

Glera

51,269

US

A super-delicious candy bar of a wine, with melted blackberry jam, milk chocolate and cassis liqueur flavors, sprinkled with black pepper and star anise. There's a brown sugar quality, but the finish actually is dry. Great price for a wine held back long enough by the producer to begin to soften and mellow. Drink now–2018.

90

25

California

Syrah

15,745

US

Aromatic fruit and floral notes join delicious honeydew melon flavors as this full-bodied wine wraps around the tongue, leaving a soft smooth impression and lingering on the finish. Very good concentration, layers of flavor and that lasting finish lift this wine above the ordinary.

91

18

California

Viognier