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
103,442	Spain	Oaky aromas of almond, vanilla and peach settle on a palate with grip and acidity. Flavors of toasted almond, baked apple and briny apricot finish with forward acidity. This is a blend of Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo, but it's the white Garnacha that sticks out.	89	29	Catalonia	White Blend
36,299	Italy	Aromas of black berries, dark spices and tobacco take the lead in this blend of 55% Merlot, 35% Syrah and 10% Sangiovese. The dense palate delivers juicy but restrained black cherry accented with notes of black pepper, licorice and mocha alongside firm, dusty tannins. A warm note of alcohol on the close makes the wine seem even more structured than it is.	90	40	Tuscany	Red Blend
29,299	US	Blue fruit stars in this juicily exuberant wine that shows upfront citrus, red cherry and a spark of campfire-like smoke. Its bristling acidity is balanced in a core of backbone-building tannin that gives it weight and depth.	89	35	California	Pinot Noir
89,334	US	A new offering from the country's largest producer of Rieslings, this fits an emerging off-dry category, with 11% alcohol and 4.7% residual sugar. It's a slightly sweeter companion to the winery's popular Columbia Valley bottling, with more of the honey and tea, less of the cool fruit flavors.	87	9	Washington	Riesling
122,053	US	Densely purple scents of blackberry jam, plum, cola, cherry extract and dried violet syrup overcome the nose on this wine from a property once owned by a famous composer. The flavors are quite jammy, but given complexity by nuances of dark chocolate and espresso beans. Decent acidity and solid tannins will make this last. Drink 2018–2024.	90	65	California	Tempranillo
82,929	Italy	Aromas of oak, menthol and vanilla emerge. The dense palate offers black pepper, licorice and a suggestion of dried black cherry alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit is already drying up.	86	120	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
115,046	US	One of the better Sangioveses out there, although it's more like Zinfandel than the great grape of Tuscany. It's robust in rustic tannins, with ripe, extracted flavors of wild forest berries, cola, licorice, beef teriaki and sandalwood. At its best now.	87	28	California	Sangiovese
85,423	US	This dessert wine is sweetly complex, with apricot jam, peach pie, honeysuckle, vanilla fudge and smoky butterscotch flavors. Fortunately, the acidity is fine and crisp, providing a clean balance to the sweetness.	90	18	California	Sauvignon Blanc
87,499	Italy	This presents aromas of ripe black fruit—just shy of overripe—and bitter almond. The palate shows black cherry, baked plum and cinnamon flavors. While it's simply structured and a little shy on fresh acidity, it's still very enjoyable thanks to the generous fruit.	87	18	Veneto	Red Blend
26,986	Italy	Liquid smoke and toasted elements of roasted hazelnut and cured meat dominate the nose of this modern Barbera d'Alba. There is power and high alcohol here too, coupled by the wine's naturally high acidity that is a bit strong on the palate. Pair this wine with very cheesey foods.	87	22	Piedmont	Barbera
16,451	France	Perfumed wood dominates this wine, giving it structure and tannins. Juicy red fruits are still submerged beneath this welter of dryness. The wine needs time to integrate. Drink from 2019.	89	46	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
73,602	Argentina	Loud on the nose, with big berry aromas, this Cabernet is full and lively in the mouth, with brown sugar, chocolate and cassis flavors. On the finish, it's warm and maintains a chocolaty flavor from before. Overall, this is loaded with ripe cherry, plum and berry fruit, and still it's not a complicated wine.	89	20	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
65,980	US	This wine is equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, topped off with Petit Verdot (4%). Hailing from Dineen, Olsen, Stone Tree, Sheridan and Kiona vineyards, it offers aromas of herb, vanilla, and slightly raisinated-seeming fruit. Plush, rich flavors cap it off.	88	21	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
27,789	France	A big, fruity bold wine, packed with the ripest fruit, concentrated and complex, with room for tight acidity. It has citrus and green plum crispness, and needs time to fully integrate with the wood and ripe yellow fruits.	90	33	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
123,792	US	This opulent wine opens with a blast of buttered toast and tropical fruit aromas. The flavors are complex, with swirls of pineapple, pear, yeast, toast and cinnamon. Drink now–2015.	92	48	California	Chardonnay
99,315	US	Another longtime standout for Williams Selyem, Allen Vineyard fruit imparts textural subtleties and a wealth of minerality and freshness. Citrus-driven in its cranberry and orange flavors, it shows depth and complexity, accented by lively thyme and clove notes.	95	82	California	Pinot Noir
119,670	Italy	New leather, rose, violet, menthol and dark spice aromas set the tone on this luminous red. It's more about finesse than muscle, delivering tight layers of cherry, raspberry, mint and white pepper while tightly-knit refined tannins provide the taut framework. Bright acidity gives it intensity while a mineral note further lifts the finish. Give it time to soften and fully develop. Drink 2023–2043.	95	78	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
78,918	US	Stays true to its house style, with intensely grassy, herbal flavors of mint, citrus and hay. Extremely dry with bright acidity, it's a zesty clean wine, very refreshing and invigorating, and a good value. Best Buy.—S.H.	86	9	California	Sauvignon Blanc
15,662	France	Produced from organically grown grapes, this is a rich wine. Its lightly oxidative character gives it a smoothness as well as bringing out ripe white fruits and citrus. It is a finely made wine, worthy of aging for a few more years. Drink from 2019.	94	90	Champagne	Champagne Blend
90,315	Germany	Crisp apple and pears are streaked with earthy tones of saffron and bramble in this brisk invigorating Spätlese. It's concentrated and fruity on the palate with a clingy honeyed touch that extends the finish.	88	21	Mosel	Riesling
64,529	Italy	This opens with tonic aromas of citrus and crushed stone, with light touches of peach and pear at the back. The wine is bright and clean, with a sharp, firm quality of effervescence.	85	17	Veneto	Glera
14,183	US	The savory side of Pinot Noir shines in this bottling from a vineyard south of the Arroyo Seco appellation. Aromas include stewed tomato and green olives with pimento. Falling in line are the Middle Eastern spices and olive tapenade on the palate, with tight pomegranate fruit. Serve with lamb gyros.	90	21	California	Pinot Noir
106,056	US	This is a forward, rather light, chocolaty wine. The berry fruit flavors are swathed in chocolate, and a suggestion of citrus keeps a frame around it.	87	32	Oregon	Pinot Noir
17,871	Spain	Concentrated on the nose, with oak aromas that are under control, this Garnacha is fresh and firm on the palate. Flavors of loamy berry and cassis are ripe almost to the point of being raisiny. A plump yet dry and spicy finish ends with oak-based resin and creaminess.	88	16	Northern Spain	Grenache
28,181	France	This wine is dense, ripe and full of rich apricot and peach flavors, with a line of crisp lemon and a background of toast. Full in the mouth, this generous wine will be ready to drink from 2017. It comes Louis Max domaine vineyards in and around Mercurey.	90	65	Burgundy	Chardonnay
69,850	US	Suave aromas of bramble and red berries meet with chipped slate, a touch of anise and pressed lilacs on this nose of this blend of 37% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah, 10% Counoise, 6% Cinsault and 5% Carignane. Bright cranberry and red cherry fruit pop on the palate, which is bolstered by fennel, black peppercorns and dried rose petals.	88	25	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
17,122	US	This wine is direct and candied, with cherry and raspberry jam and and sweet oak flavors, but brightened with crisp acidity. A very good Pinot, but pricey for the quality. Keep in mind that this is not one of Rochioli's vineyard-designated bottlings.	87	79	California	Pinot Noir
78,415	France	Soft and generous, full of perfumed ripe berry fruits, touched with strawberry acidity. The tannins are all part of the softness, like flecks of dust on the wine. It is beautifully pure, ripe and open.	90	55	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
68,254	US	The Shea cuvée has more stuffing than the other Broadley Pinots, with clean strawberry-cherry flavors. There's a streak of caramel running through the middle, and overall it's a well-balanced, forward and flavorful wine that will drink nicely now through the early 2020s.	91	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
44,324	US	Toasty oak kicks off the nose of this bottling, and then come touches of vanilla, lemon cookie, flint, buttered toast and almost marshmallow. Flavors are quite smoky, with roasted almond and sea salt, but the grippy texture is the most intriguing part.	91	40	California	Chardonnay
23,349	US	Here's a rich, easy-to-like Sauvignon Blanc. Shows keen acidity and complex flavors of citrus fruits, lemongrass, minerals and honey. Feels vigorous and clean all the way through to the long, spicy finish.	90	20	California	Sauvignon Blanc
21,116	US	Enormously rich, showing cola, black cherry pie filling and even some dark chocolate notes. There's a soft sweetness of fruit and oak that suggests drinking this lovely wine now. You can't go wrong with a grilled steak, or carne asada.	92	60	California	Pinot Noir
97,464	France	Rounded ripe Chardonnay is the backbone of this accessible wine. Yes, it is crisp with an edge of steeliness, but its acidity is tempered by the rich lime and apricot flavors. The wine is ripe, fruity and ready to drink.	89	50	Champagne	Chardonnay
113,564	France	A wonderfully complete wine, with all the elements in place. It is ripe and powerful, the black fruits jammy and rich. But at the same time, the layer of acidity, the dark tannins and the succulent texture all come together in a finely balanced way. It is almost exotic, but the tannins promise good potential for aging.	96	2,000	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
61,654	France	Vines on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims have given this wine a soft character and ripe fruitiness. Fresh baked apples and bright acidity are right out front to produce a refreshing, accessible wine that is ready to drink now.	87	40	Champagne	Champagne Blend
102,254	US	Beautifully made, complex and complete, this full-bodied wine embraces seductive, spicy oak flavors, ripe fruit and a mouthfilling texture. Intricate vanilla, nutmeg and toasted baguette aromas lead to mulled plum, rhubarb and red-cherry flavors that coat the palate and linger on the finish.	93	82	California	Pinot Noir
8,658	US	Lots of rich, savory Pinot flavors in this silky wine. It's kind of generic, and not showing much sense of terroir, but it is a properly grown coastal wine whose brisk acidity highlights cola, pomegranate and persimmon flavors. Drink up.	88	35	California	Pinot Noir
25,953	US	Overlooking the Gualala River and Pacific Ocean, the McDougall Vineyard reaches elevations of 1,100 feet, a perfect vantage point from which to breathe in fresh, cooling coastal air. The resulting wine is awash in bright, vibrant acidity, yet offers equal measures of juicy black cherry fruit and dried herb spice.	93	58	California	Pinot Noir
115,948	US	This is a delicious and complex white wine, beginning with its aromas of matchstick, hay and hazelnuts. Zesty citrus stars on the midpalate, giving way to more generous, rounded layers of vanilla cream. Age-worthy, it peaks in bursts of orange blossom and tangerine, and would be a lovely partner for some fresh oysters on the half shell.	93	55	California	Sauvignon Blanc
98,797	France	Already this wine is so smooth that it is quite ready to drink. With its berry fruit flavors that are lifted by acidity, it is well balanced between mineral tannins and fruitiness. The aftertaste is full and round.	87	25	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
92,851	US	Known more for Zinfandel and Rhône blends, Bill Easton has quietly been making Cabernet as well for many years. This vintage is earthy and leathery, reminiscent of his Syrah-based wines, yet rich in savory black cherry, cedar and black olive. Built to age, put it away until 2019–2024 and the savory, herbal elements are sure to develop further.	90	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
24,256	Italy	Extremely fragrant and floral, this classic method sparkler delivers a full bouquet of jasmine, honeysuckle and chamomile. But the nose is not just floral: You'll get yellow fruit, peach, honey and a bit of apple pulp as well. The wine closes with a note of bitter almond.	85	35	Veneto	Sparkling Blend
37,187	US	This is a joy to drink. It's dry and silky, with savory raspberry, cherry and cola flavors that are accented by earthy notes of sautéed wild mushrooms, balsamic and soy sauce. It should improve even more with a few years in the bottle.	91	50	California	Pinot Noir
102,807	US	The aromas bring notes of generous wood spices, high-toned herbs, black currant and black cherry, along with a vanilla top note. The black-fruit flavors show richness but also restraint, with dusty tannins giving support.	91	25	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
22,436	US	The amount of alcohol in this Syrah has increased in 2010, which will appeal to some palates. The downside is the loss of texture and subtlety. Smooth and powerfully fruity, this hits with some chewy tannins, but it stops a bit short. More bottle age could certainly be a boon to this wine.	89	55	Washington	Syrah
95,148	US	The aromas explore Cabernet's greener side, with overt notes of bell pepper along with vanilla and other barrel spices. The black-fruit flavors show richness, with grainy tannins backing them up. This wine is best for those who enjoy the variety's savory aspects.	90	45	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
36,671	US	From one of the few Pinot Noir plantings in Paso, this wine is hearty on the nose, with black cherry, black plum, bay leaf, forest berry, balsamic reduction and a rugged earthiness. It's thick on the palate, where strong licorice spice meets with flavors of caramelized beef in a black-plum sauce.	92	65	California	Pinot Noir
12,633	Italy	Here is a freshly aromatic and vibrant Barbera d'Asti that offers elements of red berry, chopped herbs and white stone backed by spice and hazelnut. The wine is crisp and brightens up the mouth with its red berry flavors.	88	26	Piedmont	Barbera
116,880	Australia	Yes, the same Jacob's Creek that turns out vast quantities of drink-me-now wines at sub-$10 price points also makes this age-worthy Cabernet from Coonawarra fruit. The 2008 is a harmonious wine, blending notes of cassis, cigar box and vanilla into a richly textured, fairly tannic whole. Give it 4–5 years in the cellar.	91	35	South Australia	Cabernet Sauvignon
8,747	Italy	A blend of 50% Sangiovese and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this savory wine boasts structure and drinkability. Aromas of toast, chocolate and ripe plum carry over to the palate along with dark cherry, white pepper and smooth, velvety tannins. It's made for early drinking so enjoy soon.	89	21	Tuscany	Red Blend
82,006	US	Bitter lime peel and an elegant steeliness give structure to the sweet, fresh apples that dominate this off-dry style Riesling. Bright lemon-lime acidity leads to a mouthwatering pucker on the finish.	87	13	New York	Riesling
98,321	US	With the fruit coming from Stillwater Creek Vineyard, the aromas offer notes of coffee, cocoa, smoke, vanilla and purple fruit. The flavors are elegant in style, with nubby tannins providing the frame.	88	23	Washington	Syrah
5,594	US	From this longstanding grape grower and Napa-based producer is a Mendocino-sourced Gewürztraminer that's beautifully gold in color and full of pretty tropical aromas. Balanced, with good acidity, this is a Gewürztraminer that's light on its feet and still retains the right amount of spice.	88	29	California	Gewürztraminer
106,624	Italy	Fresh and informal, this opens with tangerine aromas, followed by notes of passion fruit, citrus and white flower. It's easy and fresh, with tonic bubbling on the close.	87	13	Veneto	Sparkling Blend
77,641	US	The Rough Justice Red is a tasty, big-boned, chunky red blend, with plenty of cherry fruit flavor, a substantial tannic bite, and a chewy, drying finish that lingers as if demanding a grilled steak.	89	20	Washington	Red Blend
114,757	Spain	Aromas of stone-fruit pit and citrus peel are punchy. This blend of Viura and Tempranillo Blanco feels solid. Pithy grapefruit and salty flavors carry over to the finish of this everyday white.	85	10	Northern Spain	White Blend
21,893	US	This is the darkest, biggest, richest of Raymond's 2007 Cabernets. It's ripe and full in blackberries and currants, with a thick coating of sweet, toasty oak, but it's not really drinkable now because the tannins are so strong. Designed for the cellar, it should develop bottle complexity over the next 10–12 years.	92	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
68,756	Italy	Aromas of violet, woodland berry and forest floor open this straightforward wine. The juicy palate doles out crushed black cherry lightly accented with notes of baking spices. It's dense and delicious but not an ager, so enjoy soon.	88	25	Tuscany	Sangiovese
18,200	US	Tannic and fruity, with the taste of an energy bar. The flavors suggest ripe blackberries, anise, almonds, honey, pepper and dark chocolate. Drink now.	85	27	California	Merlot
25,959	Germany	While the nose is subdued, lush honeydew and white peach flavors shine brilliantly on the palate of this taut, nervous wine. Streaks of steely mineral lend a polished feel that lingers on the finish. It's strikingly acidic still, but should meld together beautifully with some cellaring, ideally from 2019 on.	93	56	Mosel	Riesling
93,470	Italy	A great value wine from Sicily present on restaurant lists across southern Italy, La Segreta is a famously food-friendly red blend that offers light berry, cherry, almond and spice aromas. The easy mouthfeel pairs with pasta, risotto, veal or roast chicken.	87	15	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
58,437	Argentina	Citrusy in style, with aromas of orange, passion fruit and grapefruit. Feels flush and full-bodied, with basic tangerine and navel orange flavors. Fresh on the finish but hollow in terms of depth, with a light fade.	87	18	Mendoza Province	Sauvignon Blanc
118,228	US	Fairly tight in aromas with cranberry, tart cherries and gravel, this shows fresher squeezed bramble berries the longer it's opened. The palate is also tart with cranberries and anise, though streamlined with tones of gravel, slate and dark chocolate.	91	58	California	Pinot Noir
35,637	US	Electric-pink color and piercing acidity add to the unique personality of this bold angular Cabernet Franc rosé. Tart sour-cherry and raspberry flavors are pristine and primary, but nuanced with lingering hints of bramble and savory herb. This is a refreshingly substantive style of rosé to enjoy with even heartier fare well into the fall months.	88	16	New York	Rosé
33,566	US	Pretty to look at and lovely in the mouth, this all-Pinot rosé offers gentle hints of plum, sour cherry and orangeade. Bracing acidity puts a tight, tangy twist to the finish.	88	17	Oregon	Rosé
64,722	US	The subdued aromas might indicate a bland wine, but this turns out to be a rich and fairly full-bodied one. Flavors come on strong with vanilla, butter, fig and marzipan. The texture feels nicely thick, carrying along all those flavors to a lingering finish.	89	20	California	Viognier
35,479	Portugal	This wine is fruity, with attractive supporting tannins and the concentration of old vines. Berry fruits are developing well, giving a wine that will be generous and full bodied. The aftertaste introduces layers of acidity. Drink from 2019.	90	23	Douro	Portuguese Red
85,566	US	This is a broadly fruity, wide open style with fresh melon, pink grapefruit and orange marmalade flavors criss-crossing the palate. It's ready to enjoy right now, low in alcohol, with a touch of marshmallow sweetness to cut the acid.	87	13	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
15,933	Italy	Floral aromas are layered with notes of ripe black cherry, crushed blackberry, baking spices and a whiff of resin. Despite its full-bodied structure, this is one of the more elegant 2011 Amarones out there, delivering ripe black plum, cocoa and exotic spice. It's already accessible thanks to polished tannins. Drink through 2021.	91	92	Veneto	Red Blend
79,174	France	Notes of ripe, almost overripe, pears make this a juicy, rounded and easy wine. There is something pliable and soft about this, all beautifully hemmed in with slightly pithy midpalate notes.	88	17	Alsace	Pinot Gris
52,290	US	A bit high in alcohol, this has blackberry and mocha flavors that are overripe, veering into sweet-prune territory. Drink now.	87	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
1,872	France	Initially wood dominates, but this is a stage after bottling. Because then the ripe, smooth fruit comes in, pouring through with black fruits, very ripe and juicy. As this wine develops, this rich fruit will be its main character.	93	90	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
41	US	A stiff, tannic wine, this slowly opens and brings brambly berry flavors into play, along with notes of earthy herbs. There's a touch of bitterness to the tannins.	86	22	Oregon	Pinot Noir
1,567	US	A drop-dead gorgeous Pinot Noir that will satisfy everyone from Burgundy fans to diehard Cabernet cultists. Show an elegant complexity and silky texture that define great California Pinot Noir, yet with a powerful impact that emphasizes raspberries, cherries and blueberries. Brilliant acidity and tannins provide the perfect framework on this wine that's drinkable now, and will develop over the next 15–20 years.	97	82	California	Pinot Noir
53,806	Italy	Aromas of weedy underbrush, toast, menthol and cherry marinated in spirits emerge in the glass. The palate shows raw sour cherry and a hint of licorice alongside raspy tannins that dry out the finish.	86	100	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
58,596	France	A firm and tannic wine initially, but then it opens out with such sweet, generous fruits and flavors of strawberries and pepper. The texture is dense, a vertical pile of ripe tannins and richness.	93	330	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
82,392	US	This easy-to-love wine from the Michael Mondavi family has an obvious but attractive oaky character, from the abundant cedar and cinnamon aromas to the spicy nutmeg and cardamom flavors that bolster its red cherry fruit and medium body.	88	15	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
34,071	US	Aromas of pear, melted butter and toasty spice lead to a lightly creamy, elegantly styled palate with lingering stone-fruit flavors. It seems faint but what's there shows a fine sense of balance.	88	29	Washington	Chardonnay
6,429	France	This is a perfumed wine, dominated by Cabernet Franc. Black fruits are layered with wood, dry tannins and a beautiful aromatic quality. The wine is deep and complex, built for the long term with its power, density and considerable elegance.	95	235	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
68,619	Spain	Stalky, damp aromas are low on freshness and fruit. This feels full and chunky but lacking in structure. Stalky, rubbery plum and berry flavors lead to a short, low-volume finish that tastes a bit salty.	85	15	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
25,349	US	The artist label Syrah is usually Dunham's best, as this vineyard is well-established as one of the premier sites in Washington for Syrah. Scents of violets and black cherry introduce a dense, hard, tightly wound, muscular effort that needs a generous amount of breathing time. It rolls through the palate on a train of well-defined fruit, spice and chocolate, all nicely integrated. Supple and long.	94	75	Washington	Syrah
90,230	US	There's a vegetal note that really mars this Pinot Noir. Tastes like it was made from a bunch of lots picked up here and there, thrown in some oak, and bottled.	82	21	California	Pinot Noir
72,195	France	Mumm's nonvintage cuvée is a soft Champagne, although now drier than in the past with attractive apple and pear flavors that are cut by citrus. It is lightly textured, hinting at almonds and with perfumed acidity at the end. This bottling is ready to drink.	87	40	Champagne	Champagne Blend
51,491	US	This is an elegant, cinnamon-spicy Cabernet from Corey Beck, the head winemaker for Francis Ford Coppola. Balanced and soft, it has a texturally pleasing mouthfeel of velvety herb and cassis and a fully realized, lingering finish.	91	48	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
8,667	US	Fresh boysenberry aromas and Concord grape scents are lifted by cracked peppercorn on the nose of this bottling. There is a touch of dill to the palate, where black cherry and chocolate flavors also arise on the lighter, simple yet tasty bottling.	88	38	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
81,451	US	An aromatically pleasing wine with notes of pear, apple and petroleum jelly. It's almost frizzante in feel and drinks dry with just a touch of residual sugar (3.6 g/L) sweetening the finish.	85	10	Washington	Pinot Grigio
4,715	Germany	Slightly oxidized tones of pressed apple and pear are lifted by a shock of lemony acidity in this spry semi-dry Riesling. The tangerine palate extends moderately long, encouraged by a swathe of dried herb notes.	87	30	Mosel	Riesling
12,124	Germany	Pristine white grapefruits, tangerines and limes abound in this revitalizing, light-bodied Riesling. Just a touch sweet and refreshingly mineral on the palate, it offers loads of thirst-quenching enjoyment with a lingering, salty finish.	90	38	Mosel	Riesling
111,176	Australia	Has peach, banana and vanilla aromas on the nose; palate shows light yellow fruit, plus a sour peach-pit note, both of which continue through to the finish. Body is medium, with some viscosity.	84	15	South Australia	Chardonnay
53,491	France	Abelé lays claim to being the third-oldest Champagne house in Reims, and this stylish, sophisticated and thoroughly excellent bottle provides ample evidence that this is an important producer. From the textured, elegant, densely layered nose to the richly toasted flavors and the lingering, sensuous finish, it shows a confident touch with a continental flair.	92	25	Champagne	Champagne Blend
66,248	France	This attractively fruity wine has just a touch of tannin in the tangy, zesty structure. At the same time it offers crisp apple and grapefruit fruitiness. It's balanced, a great success with its combination of fruit and tense structure.	91	60	Champagne	Pinot Noir
88,168	US	This is a lighthearted, well-crafted take on the variety made for the producer's mother, Lee. It's bright and rich simultaneously, with highlights of tropical pineapple and mango supported by crisp minerality and a refreshing finish of tangerine and lime zest.	93	28	California	Sauvignon Blanc
80,357	Spain	Here's yet another excellent wine from this modern-leaning Riojano producer. The nose is full of spice, tobacco and deep berry aromas. Feels quasi-jammy and very rich, with thickness and mild tannins. Tastes baked, like a mix of prune, spicecake and chocolate. Warm and figgy on the finish, and ready to drink now.	91	143	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
46,404	US	From a benchland vineyard, this Zin is riper than almost anything out there. Higher in alcohol, too, with an astounding 16.8%. That's almost Port—exactly what it tastes like, with caramelized blackberry berry, dark chocolate, and vanilla flavors.	85	36	California	Zinfandel
13,128	US	Enticing complexities of bramble, rose and violet lend freshness to this ripe plummy Merlot. The palate is satisfyingly juicy, accented by crisp acidity and subtle notes of nuts and spice. A fine feathery layer of tannins cushions the finish.	89	17	New York	Merlot
103,180	US	A perennial standout, this is an exuberantly rich, classic expression of the variety, with the heady, unmistakable imprint of the producer and vineyard. Expansive and generous in style, it offers baked honeycrisp apple and a jolt of lemon pith, with aromas of honeysuckle and vanilla. The finish is lengthy and substantial, with memorable minerality.	94	52	California	Chardonnay
7,109	US	Given time to ferment and age in a majority of neutral oak, this wine still offers thickness and viscosity. It's rich and lush in tropical pineapple, mango and sliced peach, buoyed by acidity and a focused approach.	87	50	California	Chardonnay
11,818	US	This aromatic wine brings a potpourri of freshly rubbed sage, Dimetapp, bay leaf and sweet tobacco. It's broad yet light in feel with a pretty sense of elegance and restraint.	88	35	Washington	Grenache
21,657	Portugal	Named after the Pombal, or dovecote at Vesúvio, this is a soft, ready-to-drink wine. It has attractive acidity and black currant flavors. Layers of tannins offer support while not suggesting any long-term aging. Drink from 2015.	89	28	Douro	Portuguese Red
118,163	France	With more weight than its partner Vie Vité, this is a rich wine, with red plum as well as berry fruits. Almonds, vanilla and a mineral texture all contribute to its natural ripeness. Wait until the end of 2014.	89	28	Provence	Rosé

103,442

Spain

Oaky aromas of almond, vanilla and peach settle on a palate with grip and acidity. Flavors of toasted almond, baked apple and briny apricot finish with forward acidity. This is a blend of Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo, but it's the white Garnacha that sticks out.

89

29

Catalonia

White Blend

36,299

Italy

Aromas of black berries, dark spices and tobacco take the lead in this blend of 55% Merlot, 35% Syrah and 10% Sangiovese. The dense palate delivers juicy but restrained black cherry accented with notes of black pepper, licorice and mocha alongside firm, dusty tannins. A warm note of alcohol on the close makes the wine seem even more structured than it is.

90

40

Tuscany

Red Blend

29,299

US

Blue fruit stars in this juicily exuberant wine that shows upfront citrus, red cherry and a spark of campfire-like smoke. Its bristling acidity is balanced in a core of backbone-building tannin that gives it weight and depth.

89

35

California

Pinot Noir

89,334

US

A new offering from the country's largest producer of Rieslings, this fits an emerging off-dry category, with 11% alcohol and 4.7% residual sugar. It's a slightly sweeter companion to the winery's popular Columbia Valley bottling, with more of the honey and tea, less of the cool fruit flavors.

87

9

Washington

Riesling

122,053

US

Densely purple scents of blackberry jam, plum, cola, cherry extract and dried violet syrup overcome the nose on this wine from a property once owned by a famous composer. The flavors are quite jammy, but given complexity by nuances of dark chocolate and espresso beans. Decent acidity and solid tannins will make this last. Drink 2018–2024.

90

65

California

Tempranillo

82,929

Italy

Aromas of oak, menthol and vanilla emerge. The dense palate offers black pepper, licorice and a suggestion of dried black cherry alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit is already drying up.

86

120

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

115,046

US

One of the better Sangioveses out there, although it's more like Zinfandel than the great grape of Tuscany. It's robust in rustic tannins, with ripe, extracted flavors of wild forest berries, cola, licorice, beef teriaki and sandalwood. At its best now.

87

28

California

Sangiovese

85,423

US

This dessert wine is sweetly complex, with apricot jam, peach pie, honeysuckle, vanilla fudge and smoky butterscotch flavors. Fortunately, the acidity is fine and crisp, providing a clean balance to the sweetness.

90

18

California

Sauvignon Blanc

87,499

Italy

This presents aromas of ripe black fruit—just shy of overripe—and bitter almond. The palate shows black cherry, baked plum and cinnamon flavors. While it's simply structured and a little shy on fresh acidity, it's still very enjoyable thanks to the generous fruit.

87

18

Veneto

Red Blend

26,986

Italy

Liquid smoke and toasted elements of roasted hazelnut and cured meat dominate the nose of this modern Barbera d'Alba. There is power and high alcohol here too, coupled by the wine's naturally high acidity that is a bit strong on the palate. Pair this wine with very cheesey foods.

87

22

Piedmont

Barbera

16,451

France

Perfumed wood dominates this wine, giving it structure and tannins. Juicy red fruits are still submerged beneath this welter of dryness. The wine needs time to integrate. Drink from 2019.

89

46

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

73,602

Argentina

Loud on the nose, with big berry aromas, this Cabernet is full and lively in the mouth, with brown sugar, chocolate and cassis flavors. On the finish, it's warm and maintains a chocolaty flavor from before. Overall, this is loaded with ripe cherry, plum and berry fruit, and still it's not a complicated wine.

89

20

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

65,980

US

This wine is equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, topped off with Petit Verdot (4%). Hailing from Dineen, Olsen, Stone Tree, Sheridan and Kiona vineyards, it offers aromas of herb, vanilla, and slightly raisinated-seeming fruit. Plush, rich flavors cap it off.

88

21

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

27,789

France

A big, fruity bold wine, packed with the ripest fruit, concentrated and complex, with room for tight acidity. It has citrus and green plum crispness, and needs time to fully integrate with the wood and ripe yellow fruits.

90

33

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

123,792

US

This opulent wine opens with a blast of buttered toast and tropical fruit aromas. The flavors are complex, with swirls of pineapple, pear, yeast, toast and cinnamon. Drink now–2015.

92

48

California

Chardonnay

99,315

US

Another longtime standout for Williams Selyem, Allen Vineyard fruit imparts textural subtleties and a wealth of minerality and freshness. Citrus-driven in its cranberry and orange flavors, it shows depth and complexity, accented by lively thyme and clove notes.

95

82

California

Pinot Noir

119,670

Italy

New leather, rose, violet, menthol and dark spice aromas set the tone on this luminous red. It's more about finesse than muscle, delivering tight layers of cherry, raspberry, mint and white pepper while tightly-knit refined tannins provide the taut framework. Bright acidity gives it intensity while a mineral note further lifts the finish. Give it time to soften and fully develop. Drink 2023–2043.

95

78

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

78,918

US

Stays true to its house style, with intensely grassy, herbal flavors of mint, citrus and hay. Extremely dry with bright acidity, it's a zesty clean wine, very refreshing and invigorating, and a good value. Best Buy.—S.H.

86

9

California

Sauvignon Blanc

15,662

France

Produced from organically grown grapes, this is a rich wine. Its lightly oxidative character gives it a smoothness as well as bringing out ripe white fruits and citrus. It is a finely made wine, worthy of aging for a few more years. Drink from 2019.

94

90

Champagne

Champagne Blend

90,315

Germany

Crisp apple and pears are streaked with earthy tones of saffron and bramble in this brisk invigorating Spätlese. It's concentrated and fruity on the palate with a clingy honeyed touch that extends the finish.

88

21

Mosel

Riesling

64,529

Italy

This opens with tonic aromas of citrus and crushed stone, with light touches of peach and pear at the back. The wine is bright and clean, with a sharp, firm quality of effervescence.

85

17

Veneto

Glera

14,183

US

The savory side of Pinot Noir shines in this bottling from a vineyard south of the Arroyo Seco appellation. Aromas include stewed tomato and green olives with pimento. Falling in line are the Middle Eastern spices and olive tapenade on the palate, with tight pomegranate fruit. Serve with lamb gyros.

90

21

California

Pinot Noir

106,056

US

This is a forward, rather light, chocolaty wine. The berry fruit flavors are swathed in chocolate, and a suggestion of citrus keeps a frame around it.

87

32

Oregon

Pinot Noir

17,871

Spain

Concentrated on the nose, with oak aromas that are under control, this Garnacha is fresh and firm on the palate. Flavors of loamy berry and cassis are ripe almost to the point of being raisiny. A plump yet dry and spicy finish ends with oak-based resin and creaminess.

88

16

Northern Spain

Grenache

28,181

France

This wine is dense, ripe and full of rich apricot and peach flavors, with a line of crisp lemon and a background of toast. Full in the mouth, this generous wine will be ready to drink from 2017. It comes Louis Max domaine vineyards in and around Mercurey.

90

65

Burgundy

Chardonnay

69,850

US

Suave aromas of bramble and red berries meet with chipped slate, a touch of anise and pressed lilacs on this nose of this blend of 37% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah, 10% Counoise, 6% Cinsault and 5% Carignane. Bright cranberry and red cherry fruit pop on the palate, which is bolstered by fennel, black peppercorns and dried rose petals.

88

25

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

17,122

US

This wine is direct and candied, with cherry and raspberry jam and and sweet oak flavors, but brightened with crisp acidity. A very good Pinot, but pricey for the quality. Keep in mind that this is not one of Rochioli's vineyard-designated bottlings.

87

79

California

Pinot Noir

78,415

France

Soft and generous, full of perfumed ripe berry fruits, touched with strawberry acidity. The tannins are all part of the softness, like flecks of dust on the wine. It is beautifully pure, ripe and open.

90

55

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

68,254

US

The Shea cuvée has more stuffing than the other Broadley Pinots, with clean strawberry-cherry flavors. There's a streak of caramel running through the middle, and overall it's a well-balanced, forward and flavorful wine that will drink nicely now through the early 2020s.

91

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

44,324

US

Toasty oak kicks off the nose of this bottling, and then come touches of vanilla, lemon cookie, flint, buttered toast and almost marshmallow. Flavors are quite smoky, with roasted almond and sea salt, but the grippy texture is the most intriguing part.

91

40

California

Chardonnay

23,349

US

Here's a rich, easy-to-like Sauvignon Blanc. Shows keen acidity and complex flavors of citrus fruits, lemongrass, minerals and honey. Feels vigorous and clean all the way through to the long, spicy finish.

90

20

California

Sauvignon Blanc

21,116

US

Enormously rich, showing cola, black cherry pie filling and even some dark chocolate notes. There's a soft sweetness of fruit and oak that suggests drinking this lovely wine now. You can't go wrong with a grilled steak, or carne asada.

92

60

California

Pinot Noir

97,464

France

Rounded ripe Chardonnay is the backbone of this accessible wine. Yes, it is crisp with an edge of steeliness, but its acidity is tempered by the rich lime and apricot flavors. The wine is ripe, fruity and ready to drink.

89

50

Champagne

Chardonnay

113,564

France

A wonderfully complete wine, with all the elements in place. It is ripe and powerful, the black fruits jammy and rich. But at the same time, the layer of acidity, the dark tannins and the succulent texture all come together in a finely balanced way. It is almost exotic, but the tannins promise good potential for aging.

96

2,000

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

61,654

France

Vines on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims have given this wine a soft character and ripe fruitiness. Fresh baked apples and bright acidity are right out front to produce a refreshing, accessible wine that is ready to drink now.

87

40

Champagne

Champagne Blend

102,254

US

Beautifully made, complex and complete, this full-bodied wine embraces seductive, spicy oak flavors, ripe fruit and a mouthfilling texture. Intricate vanilla, nutmeg and toasted baguette aromas lead to mulled plum, rhubarb and red-cherry flavors that coat the palate and linger on the finish.

93

82

California

Pinot Noir

8,658

US

Lots of rich, savory Pinot flavors in this silky wine. It's kind of generic, and not showing much sense of terroir, but it is a properly grown coastal wine whose brisk acidity highlights cola, pomegranate and persimmon flavors. Drink up.

88

35

California

Pinot Noir

25,953

US

Overlooking the Gualala River and Pacific Ocean, the McDougall Vineyard reaches elevations of 1,100 feet, a perfect vantage point from which to breathe in fresh, cooling coastal air. The resulting wine is awash in bright, vibrant acidity, yet offers equal measures of juicy black cherry fruit and dried herb spice.

93

58

California

Pinot Noir

115,948

US

This is a delicious and complex white wine, beginning with its aromas of matchstick, hay and hazelnuts. Zesty citrus stars on the midpalate, giving way to more generous, rounded layers of vanilla cream. Age-worthy, it peaks in bursts of orange blossom and tangerine, and would be a lovely partner for some fresh oysters on the half shell.

93

55

California

Sauvignon Blanc

98,797

France

Already this wine is so smooth that it is quite ready to drink. With its berry fruit flavors that are lifted by acidity, it is well balanced between mineral tannins and fruitiness. The aftertaste is full and round.

87

25

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

92,851

US

Known more for Zinfandel and Rhône blends, Bill Easton has quietly been making Cabernet as well for many years. This vintage is earthy and leathery, reminiscent of his Syrah-based wines, yet rich in savory black cherry, cedar and black olive. Built to age, put it away until 2019–2024 and the savory, herbal elements are sure to develop further.

90

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

24,256

Italy

Extremely fragrant and floral, this classic method sparkler delivers a full bouquet of jasmine, honeysuckle and chamomile. But the nose is not just floral: You'll get yellow fruit, peach, honey and a bit of apple pulp as well. The wine closes with a note of bitter almond.

85

35

Veneto

Sparkling Blend

37,187

US

This is a joy to drink. It's dry and silky, with savory raspberry, cherry and cola flavors that are accented by earthy notes of sautéed wild mushrooms, balsamic and soy sauce. It should improve even more with a few years in the bottle.

91

50

California

Pinot Noir

102,807

US

The aromas bring notes of generous wood spices, high-toned herbs, black currant and black cherry, along with a vanilla top note. The black-fruit flavors show richness but also restraint, with dusty tannins giving support.

91

25

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

22,436

US

The amount of alcohol in this Syrah has increased in 2010, which will appeal to some palates. The downside is the loss of texture and subtlety. Smooth and powerfully fruity, this hits with some chewy tannins, but it stops a bit short. More bottle age could certainly be a boon to this wine.

89

55

Washington

Syrah

95,148

US

The aromas explore Cabernet's greener side, with overt notes of bell pepper along with vanilla and other barrel spices. The black-fruit flavors show richness, with grainy tannins backing them up. This wine is best for those who enjoy the variety's savory aspects.

90

45

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

36,671

US

From one of the few Pinot Noir plantings in Paso, this wine is hearty on the nose, with black cherry, black plum, bay leaf, forest berry, balsamic reduction and a rugged earthiness. It's thick on the palate, where strong licorice spice meets with flavors of caramelized beef in a black-plum sauce.

92

65

California

Pinot Noir

12,633

Italy

Here is a freshly aromatic and vibrant Barbera d'Asti that offers elements of red berry, chopped herbs and white stone backed by spice and hazelnut. The wine is crisp and brightens up the mouth with its red berry flavors.

88

26

Piedmont

Barbera

116,880

Australia

Yes, the same Jacob's Creek that turns out vast quantities of drink-me-now wines at sub-$10 price points also makes this age-worthy Cabernet from Coonawarra fruit. The 2008 is a harmonious wine, blending notes of cassis, cigar box and vanilla into a richly textured, fairly tannic whole. Give it 4–5 years in the cellar.

91

35

South Australia

Cabernet Sauvignon

8,747

Italy

A blend of 50% Sangiovese and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this savory wine boasts structure and drinkability. Aromas of toast, chocolate and ripe plum carry over to the palate along with dark cherry, white pepper and smooth, velvety tannins. It's made for early drinking so enjoy soon.

89

21

Tuscany

Red Blend

82,006

US

Bitter lime peel and an elegant steeliness give structure to the sweet, fresh apples that dominate this off-dry style Riesling. Bright lemon-lime acidity leads to a mouthwatering pucker on the finish.

87

13

New York

Riesling

98,321

US

With the fruit coming from Stillwater Creek Vineyard, the aromas offer notes of coffee, cocoa, smoke, vanilla and purple fruit. The flavors are elegant in style, with nubby tannins providing the frame.

88

23

Washington

Syrah

5,594

US

From this longstanding grape grower and Napa-based producer is a Mendocino-sourced Gewürztraminer that's beautifully gold in color and full of pretty tropical aromas. Balanced, with good acidity, this is a Gewürztraminer that's light on its feet and still retains the right amount of spice.

88

29

California

Gewürztraminer

106,624

Italy

Fresh and informal, this opens with tangerine aromas, followed by notes of passion fruit, citrus and white flower. It's easy and fresh, with tonic bubbling on the close.

87

13

Veneto

Sparkling Blend

77,641

US

The Rough Justice Red is a tasty, big-boned, chunky red blend, with plenty of cherry fruit flavor, a substantial tannic bite, and a chewy, drying finish that lingers as if demanding a grilled steak.

89

20

Washington

Red Blend

114,757

Spain

Aromas of stone-fruit pit and citrus peel are punchy. This blend of Viura and Tempranillo Blanco feels solid. Pithy grapefruit and salty flavors carry over to the finish of this everyday white.

85

10

Northern Spain

White Blend

21,893

US

This is the darkest, biggest, richest of Raymond's 2007 Cabernets. It's ripe and full in blackberries and currants, with a thick coating of sweet, toasty oak, but it's not really drinkable now because the tannins are so strong. Designed for the cellar, it should develop bottle complexity over the next 10–12 years.

92

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

68,756

Italy

Aromas of violet, woodland berry and forest floor open this straightforward wine. The juicy palate doles out crushed black cherry lightly accented with notes of baking spices. It's dense and delicious but not an ager, so enjoy soon.

88

25

Tuscany

Sangiovese

18,200

US

Tannic and fruity, with the taste of an energy bar. The flavors suggest ripe blackberries, anise, almonds, honey, pepper and dark chocolate. Drink now.

85

27

California

Merlot

25,959

Germany

While the nose is subdued, lush honeydew and white peach flavors shine brilliantly on the palate of this taut, nervous wine. Streaks of steely mineral lend a polished feel that lingers on the finish. It's strikingly acidic still, but should meld together beautifully with some cellaring, ideally from 2019 on.

93

56

Mosel

Riesling

93,470

Italy

A great value wine from Sicily present on restaurant lists across southern Italy, La Segreta is a famously food-friendly red blend that offers light berry, cherry, almond and spice aromas. The easy mouthfeel pairs with pasta, risotto, veal or roast chicken.

87

15

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

58,437

Argentina

Citrusy in style, with aromas of orange, passion fruit and grapefruit. Feels flush and full-bodied, with basic tangerine and navel orange flavors. Fresh on the finish but hollow in terms of depth, with a light fade.

87

18

Mendoza Province

Sauvignon Blanc

118,228

US

Fairly tight in aromas with cranberry, tart cherries and gravel, this shows fresher squeezed bramble berries the longer it's opened. The palate is also tart with cranberries and anise, though streamlined with tones of gravel, slate and dark chocolate.

91

58

California

Pinot Noir

35,637

US

Electric-pink color and piercing acidity add to the unique personality of this bold angular Cabernet Franc rosé. Tart sour-cherry and raspberry flavors are pristine and primary, but nuanced with lingering hints of bramble and savory herb. This is a refreshingly substantive style of rosé to enjoy with even heartier fare well into the fall months.

88

16

New York

Rosé

33,566

US

Pretty to look at and lovely in the mouth, this all-Pinot rosé offers gentle hints of plum, sour cherry and orangeade. Bracing acidity puts a tight, tangy twist to the finish.

88

17

Oregon

Rosé

64,722

US

The subdued aromas might indicate a bland wine, but this turns out to be a rich and fairly full-bodied one. Flavors come on strong with vanilla, butter, fig and marzipan. The texture feels nicely thick, carrying along all those flavors to a lingering finish.

89

20

California

Viognier

35,479

Portugal

This wine is fruity, with attractive supporting tannins and the concentration of old vines. Berry fruits are developing well, giving a wine that will be generous and full bodied. The aftertaste introduces layers of acidity. Drink from 2019.

90

23

Douro

Portuguese Red

85,566

US

This is a broadly fruity, wide open style with fresh melon, pink grapefruit and orange marmalade flavors criss-crossing the palate. It's ready to enjoy right now, low in alcohol, with a touch of marshmallow sweetness to cut the acid.

87

13

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

15,933

Italy

Floral aromas are layered with notes of ripe black cherry, crushed blackberry, baking spices and a whiff of resin. Despite its full-bodied structure, this is one of the more elegant 2011 Amarones out there, delivering ripe black plum, cocoa and exotic spice. It's already accessible thanks to polished tannins. Drink through 2021.

91

92

Veneto

Red Blend

79,174

France

Notes of ripe, almost overripe, pears make this a juicy, rounded and easy wine. There is something pliable and soft about this, all beautifully hemmed in with slightly pithy midpalate notes.

88

17

Alsace

Pinot Gris

52,290

US

A bit high in alcohol, this has blackberry and mocha flavors that are overripe, veering into sweet-prune territory. Drink now.

87

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

1,872

France

Initially wood dominates, but this is a stage after bottling. Because then the ripe, smooth fruit comes in, pouring through with black fruits, very ripe and juicy. As this wine develops, this rich fruit will be its main character.

93

90

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

41

US

A stiff, tannic wine, this slowly opens and brings brambly berry flavors into play, along with notes of earthy herbs. There's a touch of bitterness to the tannins.

86

22

Oregon

Pinot Noir

1,567

US

A drop-dead gorgeous Pinot Noir that will satisfy everyone from Burgundy fans to diehard Cabernet cultists. Show an elegant complexity and silky texture that define great California Pinot Noir, yet with a powerful impact that emphasizes raspberries, cherries and blueberries. Brilliant acidity and tannins provide the perfect framework on this wine that's drinkable now, and will develop over the next 15–20 years.

97

82

California

Pinot Noir

53,806

Italy

Aromas of weedy underbrush, toast, menthol and cherry marinated in spirits emerge in the glass. The palate shows raw sour cherry and a hint of licorice alongside raspy tannins that dry out the finish.

86

100

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

58,596

France

A firm and tannic wine initially, but then it opens out with such sweet, generous fruits and flavors of strawberries and pepper. The texture is dense, a vertical pile of ripe tannins and richness.

93

330

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

82,392

US

This easy-to-love wine from the Michael Mondavi family has an obvious but attractive oaky character, from the abundant cedar and cinnamon aromas to the spicy nutmeg and cardamom flavors that bolster its red cherry fruit and medium body.

88

15

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

34,071

US

Aromas of pear, melted butter and toasty spice lead to a lightly creamy, elegantly styled palate with lingering stone-fruit flavors. It seems faint but what's there shows a fine sense of balance.

88

29

Washington

Chardonnay

6,429

France

This is a perfumed wine, dominated by Cabernet Franc. Black fruits are layered with wood, dry tannins and a beautiful aromatic quality. The wine is deep and complex, built for the long term with its power, density and considerable elegance.

95

235

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

68,619

Spain

Stalky, damp aromas are low on freshness and fruit. This feels full and chunky but lacking in structure. Stalky, rubbery plum and berry flavors lead to a short, low-volume finish that tastes a bit salty.

85

15

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

25,349

US

The artist label Syrah is usually Dunham's best, as this vineyard is well-established as one of the premier sites in Washington for Syrah. Scents of violets and black cherry introduce a dense, hard, tightly wound, muscular effort that needs a generous amount of breathing time. It rolls through the palate on a train of well-defined fruit, spice and chocolate, all nicely integrated. Supple and long.

94

75

Washington

Syrah

90,230

US

There's a vegetal note that really mars this Pinot Noir. Tastes like it was made from a bunch of lots picked up here and there, thrown in some oak, and bottled.

82

21

California

Pinot Noir

72,195

France

Mumm's nonvintage cuvée is a soft Champagne, although now drier than in the past with attractive apple and pear flavors that are cut by citrus. It is lightly textured, hinting at almonds and with perfumed acidity at the end. This bottling is ready to drink.

87

40

Champagne

Champagne Blend

51,491

US

This is an elegant, cinnamon-spicy Cabernet from Corey Beck, the head winemaker for Francis Ford Coppola. Balanced and soft, it has a texturally pleasing mouthfeel of velvety herb and cassis and a fully realized, lingering finish.

91

48

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

8,667

US

Fresh boysenberry aromas and Concord grape scents are lifted by cracked peppercorn on the nose of this bottling. There is a touch of dill to the palate, where black cherry and chocolate flavors also arise on the lighter, simple yet tasty bottling.

88

38

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

81,451

US

An aromatically pleasing wine with notes of pear, apple and petroleum jelly. It's almost frizzante in feel and drinks dry with just a touch of residual sugar (3.6 g/L) sweetening the finish.

85

10

Washington

Pinot Grigio

4,715

Germany

Slightly oxidized tones of pressed apple and pear are lifted by a shock of lemony acidity in this spry semi-dry Riesling. The tangerine palate extends moderately long, encouraged by a swathe of dried herb notes.

87

30

Mosel

Riesling

12,124

Germany

Pristine white grapefruits, tangerines and limes abound in this revitalizing, light-bodied Riesling. Just a touch sweet and refreshingly mineral on the palate, it offers loads of thirst-quenching enjoyment with a lingering, salty finish.

90

38

Mosel

Riesling

111,176

Australia

Has peach, banana and vanilla aromas on the nose; palate shows light yellow fruit, plus a sour peach-pit note, both of which continue through to the finish. Body is medium, with some viscosity.

84

15

South Australia

Chardonnay

53,491

France

Abelé lays claim to being the third-oldest Champagne house in Reims, and this stylish, sophisticated and thoroughly excellent bottle provides ample evidence that this is an important producer. From the textured, elegant, densely layered nose to the richly toasted flavors and the lingering, sensuous finish, it shows a confident touch with a continental flair.

92

25

Champagne

Champagne Blend

66,248

France

This attractively fruity wine has just a touch of tannin in the tangy, zesty structure. At the same time it offers crisp apple and grapefruit fruitiness. It's balanced, a great success with its combination of fruit and tense structure.

91

60

Champagne

Pinot Noir

88,168

US

This is a lighthearted, well-crafted take on the variety made for the producer's mother, Lee. It's bright and rich simultaneously, with highlights of tropical pineapple and mango supported by crisp minerality and a refreshing finish of tangerine and lime zest.

93

28

California

Sauvignon Blanc

80,357

Spain

Here's yet another excellent wine from this modern-leaning Riojano producer. The nose is full of spice, tobacco and deep berry aromas. Feels quasi-jammy and very rich, with thickness and mild tannins. Tastes baked, like a mix of prune, spicecake and chocolate. Warm and figgy on the finish, and ready to drink now.

91

143

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

46,404

US

From a benchland vineyard, this Zin is riper than almost anything out there. Higher in alcohol, too, with an astounding 16.8%. That's almost Port—exactly what it tastes like, with caramelized blackberry berry, dark chocolate, and vanilla flavors.

85

36

California

Zinfandel

13,128

US

Enticing complexities of bramble, rose and violet lend freshness to this ripe plummy Merlot. The palate is satisfyingly juicy, accented by crisp acidity and subtle notes of nuts and spice. A fine feathery layer of tannins cushions the finish.

89

17

New York

Merlot

103,180

US

A perennial standout, this is an exuberantly rich, classic expression of the variety, with the heady, unmistakable imprint of the producer and vineyard. Expansive and generous in style, it offers baked honeycrisp apple and a jolt of lemon pith, with aromas of honeysuckle and vanilla. The finish is lengthy and substantial, with memorable minerality.

94

52

California

Chardonnay

7,109

US

Given time to ferment and age in a majority of neutral oak, this wine still offers thickness and viscosity. It's rich and lush in tropical pineapple, mango and sliced peach, buoyed by acidity and a focused approach.

87

50

California

Chardonnay

11,818

US

This aromatic wine brings a potpourri of freshly rubbed sage, Dimetapp, bay leaf and sweet tobacco. It's broad yet light in feel with a pretty sense of elegance and restraint.

88

35

Washington

Grenache

21,657

Portugal

Named after the Pombal, or dovecote at Vesúvio, this is a soft, ready-to-drink wine. It has attractive acidity and black currant flavors. Layers of tannins offer support while not suggesting any long-term aging. Drink from 2015.

89

28

Douro

Portuguese Red

118,163

France

With more weight than its partner Vie Vité, this is a rich wine, with red plum as well as berry fruits. Almonds, vanilla and a mineral texture all contribute to its natural ripeness. Wait until the end of 2014.

89

28

Provence

Rosé