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
11,132	US	Medium body and an attractive earthy, oaky flavor profile make this wine a little different from the norm and a great value. It has complexity in the red cherry, rhubarb and sweet-spice flavors, and a supple texture with a touch of tannin.	87	13	California	Pinot Noir
39,978	US	Smoky, elegant and soft aromas of leather, pepper and berry lead into flavors of cherry and cigarbox spice on the palate of this approachable Cabernet. The wine is not terribly complex, but good structure and acidity give it cellaring potential, and paired with duck, lamb or beef dishes, it will make a very nice addition to the table.	84	19	New York	Cabernet Sauvignon
76,513	Argentina	Slightly briny aromas akin to orange peel open this citric PG. Dry orange flavors are more or less it, while this holds steady and stays fresh across a standard finish.	87	12	Mendoza Province	Pinot Grigio
124,161	France	High-toast aromas from the wood aging are followed on the palate by more layers of toast and spice. Behind this wood and tannin there is plenty of the ripe, soft fruit that is more typical of this appellation. The wine will fill out and give some generous fruit. Drink from 2019.	90	35	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
114,076	US	Low in alcohol for a Syrah, this shows light, underripe flavors of strawberry and white pepper. Not particularly complex, it's maturing quickly and should be consumed over the next couple of years.	85	20	Oregon	Syrah
112,725	US	A little on the sugary sweet side, but the apricot and tangerine jam flavors are brightened by crisp acidity.	84	12	California	Pinot Grigio
86,984	Spain	Pale salmon in color, this Brut Nature leads with clean, stony aromas that are more neutral than expressive. It's fresh, crisp and tight on the palate, with light, dry currant and raspberry flavors that feel clean on the finish.	89	22	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
120,554	US	The 2011 Aurora Vineyard Chardonnay comes across as super rich, without being superripe—a neat trick. It's lush and toasty from the moment the cork is pulled, showing mixed tropical-fruit flavors buoyed with moderate acidity. The perfumed nose carries through in the mouth, almost like a Gewürztraminer.	91	60	Oregon	Chardonnay
6,168	France	A rich, soft, well- balanced wine. There is crispness, but this is given character by toast from some good bottle age, at least in the sample tasted here. The wine is suffused with white fruit flavors, which give a soft, creamy aftertaste.	89	63	Champagne	Champagne Blend
101,606	US	Once again, here is a Seven Hills wine that opens with truly lovely aromatics. It's a clean varietal expression of Syrah, with medium weight, wild berries and finishing highlights of pepper, earth, sea salt, baking spices and cassis.	92	22	Washington	Syrah
96,585	US	This is a sound example of the warm-climate style of Zinfandel. It's high alcohol gives it a hot, chili-pepper-like sting, and the blackberry fruit has a Port-like, raisiny edge.	84	38	California	Zinfandel
96,732	US	There's nothing elegant about this Cabernet, but it does score high on the deliciousness scale. Shows Dry Creek's rustic tannin structure, with a scoury mouthfeel, but the blackberry, blueberry and currant flavors, which are accented with smoky oak, are incredible. Drink it over the next few years, and watch it change as it breathes in the glass.	92	38	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
44,285	US	There is a very juicy nose to this bottling, with dark plum, berry and the slightest hint of baking spice. Red cherry and cranberry flavors pop on the palate, alongside decent helping of clove-like spice, but it's the stony grip that takes this one to the next level.	88	36	California	Grenache
116,452	US	Shows Petite Sirah's firm tannins, giving the wine a robust mouthfeel. Also you'll find Paso softness and high alcohol ripeness, with sweet, jammy blackberry, cherry and cola flavors. Ready now with barbecue.	86	38	California	Petite Sirah
106,494	Australia	Lean and crisp in style, this is citrusy through and through. Although a bit one-dimensional, it's clean and refreshing, with a pleasantly affordable price tag.	85	11	South Australia	Chardonnay
119,091	US	Smoky, charred meat notes add complexity to flavors of blackberries, cocoa, cedar and spice in this St. Helena Syrah. Its tannic complexity lifts the palate to nobility. Dramatically dark in color and rich in profile, it's the winery's best bottling since 2008. It needs a few years to meld, so drink from 2015–2017.	91	38	California	Syrah
29,121	Italy	Aromas of pressed violet, ripe berry, menthol and a touch of exotic spice emerge on this full-bodied red. Showing its hot-vintage origins, the firm palate doesn't boast a lot of fruit richness but offers licorice, espresso, powdered sage and dried cherry accompanied by bracing, grainy tannins.	89	115	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
38,654	US	Rich in oak and tannin, this wine delivers big flavors of blackberry and plum, supported by rounded layers of soft acidity and mouthfeel. Dark in color, it's a bold wine with plenty of personality and power.	89	35	California	Malbec
59,452	US	This tradition-bucking blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Viognier, 20% Sémillon and 20% Roussanne from three different vineyards is very subtle and clean on the nose with aromas of yellow apple, crisp pear, ripe grapefruit skins and the lightest hint of honey. The crisp palate is very grippy in texture, with pear and light lemon spray flavors. It will likely age well, due to strong acidity.	90	20	California	White Blend
111,830	US	This is bone dry, with plenty of acidity and tough tannins. It's not offering much relief, despite an evident core of blackberries, currants and cherries. Those tannins really lock the palate down, like a sandpaper straitjacket on the tongue. But you have to consider its origin in Yountville, a cool area noted for ageable wines. It hould begin to resolve its difficulties by 2016.	91	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
118,597	US	A little too ripe, with jammy raspberry, cherry, blackberry and Dr. Pepper flavors that have a pie-filling sweetness. Other than that, structurally, the wine has smooth, ripe tannins and a lush coating of oak.	86	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
116,603	US	Cola spice and eager acidity mark this blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Zinfandel, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Syrah, which spent time in both French and American oak. Soft and medium in weight, it's enjoyable now and an easy crowd pleaser, with a long, spicy finish.	90	39	California	Red Blend
104,213	US	Grenache and Syrah are the mainstays here, with a splash of Mourvèdre completing the Third Man blend. For the first time, Uplands contributes some of the fruit. It's immensely fragrant, fruity, peppery and rich with flavors of strawberry, raspberry, cherry and plum. There is nothing simple here; scents and flavors compound and linger, and the more you look, the more you find.	94	50	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
125,384	US	One of the few bubbling Pinot Grigios available in California, there's enough promise here to wonder why not more. Pink grapefruit, ripe peach, kiwi and Gravenstein apple aromas show on the nose, while the palate picks up light apple cider, lime juice and jasmine flavors.	88	19	California	Pinot Grigio
30,194	Italy	Traditional and bright with berry aromatics that really pop, Sesti's Brunello delivers a steady stream of cherry, cassis, dried ginger, leather and tobacco aromas. The acidity feels sharply etched in the mouth and the wine could use 5–7 years in the cellar to soften.	90	94	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
69,613	US	The aromas of this wine from a vineyard in the Corralitos area somehow reflect its orange color (perhaps due to three weeks of skin contact), with orange rose petals and iced rooibos tea, yet with a steely minerality more common in pale white wines. The palate shows pickled plums and stewed stone fruits against a gunmetal backdrop and citrus peel bite. It's unique and very tasty.	91	35	California	Pinot Gris
38,981	US	A pretty, perfumed Pinot Noir, with gorgeous streaks of kir and vibrant blackberry and cherry. It's subtle and structured, with a pronounced layer of earthy forest floor on the finish. With sprinklings of spice, it dazzles from beginning to end.	96	58	California	Pinot Noir
3,197	US	This smooth, lean red attractively delivers above its price point. Tart in clove and currant, it finishes with a whiplash of mocha.	90	22	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
721	Argentina	Saucy berry and tea aromas are herbal, earthy and stewed. This feels full but syrupy. Flavors of cooked berry, molasses and mocha finish sweet and soupy, with only a touch of acidic offset.	85	14	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
80,826	US	This wine opens with very flinty aromas of struck graphite and pencil shavings, with touches of fermenting orange and cranberry. It's light in weight but darkly flavored on the palate, with slate and clove spice.	89	46	California	Pinot Noir
48,080	France	A rare rosé Champagne whose color comes from Pinot Noir skins rather than from added red wine, this has vivid colors of orange and onion skin. It is rich, tasting as much like wine as like sparkling wine, with a full and ripe, yet dry, feel.	88	69	Champagne	Pinot Noir
45,732	France	This is a ripe, fruity wine that comes from river plain vineyards of Saint-Emilion. It has rich tannins and juicy blackberry and black-plum fruits. The structure is comfortably cushioned in the generous texture. Drink this wine from 2017.	90	50	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
40,308	US	This is a Pinot Noir of considerable force. Your first impression is of irrepressible power, with masses of fruit punching through an overlay of tannin and oak. Then the flavors fantail out, suggesting cherries, cola, currants and spices that are rich and complex through the long finish. For all its richness, the wine retains an agreeable delicacy of texture. Comprised of lots selected by winemaker Bob Cabral for this anniversary bottling, it's right up there with Williams Selyem's best 2010 Pinots, and just as ageable. Drink now–2022. The wine is only available as part of a two-pack from the winery for $250; the other bottle is the 2010 Morning Dew Ranch Pinot Noir, from Anderson Valley.	97	125	California	Pinot Noir
120,431	US	This famous site was planted in 1972 by Dick Erath, and the 44-year-old vines deliver an aromatic, elegant yet substantive bottle of Pinot. It's a complex mix of wild berries, cherries and chocolate, showing the generous flavors of the vintage. Delicious already, it's got the power and presence to age gracefully through 2023.	93	75	Oregon	Pinot Noir
30,872	US	A touch of the veggies, particularly asparagus and bell pepper, mix with citrus in this fuller-bodied white. While it isn't exactly a heavyweight, the ample body is weighed down by lower than average acidity. On the back end, the long, persistent finish is adequate, but the green element that's so present up front comes back in force.	87	15	California	Sauvignon Blanc
47,100	Portugal	The wine is full of acidity and with stalky fruit. There is a sharp edge that detracts from the otherwise fruity character of this light crisp wine. This is ready to drink now.	85	13	Douro	Portuguese Red
71,949	Italy	Black-skinned berry, cedar and espresso scents lead the nose of this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. The firm palate delivers blackberry, and licorice flavors and a toasted note, set against assertive tannins. Enjoy through 2019.	89	75	Tuscany	Red Blend
55,515	US	Aromas of slightly overripe fruit lead to just off-dry fruit flavors. It lacks a sense of cohesion.	83	11	Washington	Pinot Gris
26,709	US	Decadent chocolate and coconut macaroon accent sweet tannin and generous oak in this softly textured wine, made in small amounts. The finish is powerful and ripe.	88	55	California	Merlot
96,921	US	Powerful punches of black licorice dominate in this stewy, chewy, generously oaked wine, grown on a mountainous appellation. It finds a softness and gentle fruit character midway through on the palate, finishing on supple notes of tobacco.	87	70	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
44,198	US	This dark, concentrated wine is jammy in red and black fruit, with a doughy hint of biscuits. On the heavier side, it is structured with a hit of acidity on the dry, tannic finish. A sizable wine, it will require sizable pairings to tame its strength.	87	42	California	Syrah
123,338	Argentina	Dark, compact and with good lift. The nose is lively and the palate shows medicinal black cherry and coffee flavors. Juicy enough, with driving but blended acidity pushing a spicy, minty finish. Peppy but nice for Argentine Merlot.	88	16	Mendoza Province	Merlot
24,811	US	There's been lots to like from this SoCal winery, and this bottling adds to the list. Rusty in color, it offers cranberry, strawberry, sagebrush and iron aromas. The palate pops with zesty pomegranate fruit, lifted by herbal garrigue notes and spice.	93	35	California	Pinot Noir
108,238	Spain	Complete and inviting aromas of plum and raisin make a positive statement without shouting. This feels stout, dense and layered, while a flavor combination of blackberry, black currant, herbs de Provence and dark chocolate finishes earthy, lightly baked and moderately complex. Drink through 2021.	92	39	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
18,201	US	More like Zinfandel with its peppery, prickly mouthfeel, but not a bad wine for everyday purposes. It's dry and full-bodied and brisk, with blackberry, currant and herb flavors.	85	8	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
94,342	US	This seems like one of the sweeter Gewürztraminers out there, with flavors of white sugar, Asian pear, lychee and spice. The sweetness is balanced with crisp acidity.	85	15	California	Gewürztraminer
125,821	US	Tastes both underripe and overripe at the same time, with some polished cherry flavors in the middle. Lots of acidity makes it sour. A dry, somewhat rustic wine that rich meats and cheeses will help fatten.	85	30	California	Malbec
19,808	US	Other than being very sweet, this dessert wine has little to recommend it. It's soft and rich in white sugar flavors, with traces of oranges, red currants, chocolate and anise. High alcohol gives it a peppery burn.	83	20	California	Zinfandel
93,584	France	This wine is dominated by Grenache, which makes up 80% of the blend. That gives the spice and pepper edge as well as bringing out delicious red-berry fruits and crisp acidity. The wine, with its bright aftertaste,is ready to drink now.	87	19	Provence	Rosé
18,777	France	Hints of apricot mingle in the red fruit aromas of this fresh rosé sparkler. The mousse is foaming but the palate has a bitter edge. Dryness and structure mean that this will fare better with earthy food.	88	19	Alsace	Sparkling Blend
117,394	Argentina	A big and mauling version of Malbec. The nose is minty and dark, while the palate runs syrupy and full, with heavy black-fruit flavors darkened even more by a persistent peppery streak. Much less restrained and elegant than the Kaiken Ultra.	85	14	Mendoza Province	Malbec
9,600	US	This is 100% Riesling, but with less than half the residual sugar of the winery's 2011 vintage. Sourced from the Evergreen Vineyard in the up-and-coming Ancient Lakes AVA, it has great acidity and purity of fruit, along with the minerality for which the region is known. Dense flavors of lime, grapefruit and pineapple are at the core of this wonderfully concentrated, expressive Riesling.	93	18	Washington	Riesling
79,386	US	This wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc (33%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) and Merlot (20%) topped off with Malbec and Petit Verdot. It brings aromas of leafy herbs and dark brewed coffee that lead to easy-drinking flavors that persist.	90	40	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
62,603	US	Very ripe, almost like the berry-cherry filling from a pastry, this Zin also has notes of chocolate and sweet roasted coconut. It's rough and ready in the mouth, with jagged tannins, and needs meats and cheeses to balance it.	83	26	California	Zinfandel
87,146	Germany	Tasted five years after bottling, this profoundly elegant spätlese exhibits a minerality that penetrates through layers of fruit and honey. Struck flint and slate offer dark counterpoints to a lush, creamy palate full of ripe tangerine and apple marmalade flavors. It's a penetrating, deftly balanced wine that's both stimulating and thought-provoking. Drink now through 2021.	95	35	Mosel	Riesling
17,831	US	With a slight sweetness to the raspberry, cherry, pink grapefruit, clove and pepper flavors, this blush is balanced by crisp, citrusy acidity. If you like to drink wine with sushi or Chinese food, this is a good bet.	86	16	California	Barbera
54,509	Italy	Made with 70% Nebbiolo, 20% Croatina and 10% Vespolina, this has enticing scents of rose, pressed violet, wild berry and a hint of menthol. The bright, silky palate delivers juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2021.	90	32	Piedmont	Red Blend
80,971	Italy	Red berry, violet and a whiff of moist earth lead the nose on this simple red. The lean, rather diluted palate shows tart sour cherry, cranberry and a hint of graphite alongside bracing acidity. Fleeting tannins give it an abrupt finish.	85	20	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
11,569	US	This is a beautifully balanced and well-rounded wine that has light spicy aromas and generous fruit flavors. Made from nearly equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the mouthfilling texture boasts tiny bubbles, good acidity and excellent fruit concentration.	91	25	California	Sparkling Blend
82,141	Argentina	Charred, almost burnt aromas dominate the nose on this muscular, tannic Malbec. Like the nose, this tastes largely of blackened hickory and coffee, meaning the fruit is buried under a lot of barrel weight. Drink through 2027.	91	60	Mendoza Province	Malbec
59,066	US	This aromatic wine suggests candied red apple, jasmine and ale. It's medium sweet with a lightly spritzy feel and ale notes throughout.	84	10	Washington	Riesling
2,977	France	This vineyard is at one of the highest Castillon points. Big in tannins and also fruit, this is a dense wine. It has a dry core as well as rich blackberry fruits. Concentrated and full, the wine will be seriously worth drinking from 2019.	91	25	Bordeaux	Merlot
127,974	US	This pure Cabernet Franc was barrel-aged for 21 months in 30% new French oak. That barrel toast stands out, along with flavors of tart berries, hints of green fruit and earthy tannins. Aeration is a good idea for this young wine.	87	29	Oregon	Cabernet Franc
105,635	US	This stainless-steel take shows lime juice, golden apples and white pepper on the lean but ever-so-slightly warm nose. The palate is driven by a citrusy bitterness, showing tangerine peels and more squeezed lime throughout.	89	18	California	Chardonnay
77,769	US	This is a bright, spicy, crisply defined wine, and an overall supervalue. Clean and fresh flavors of apple and pear come lightly spiced, and are set against refreshing natural acidity. The fruit is sourced from a vineyard block planted in 1978.	91	12	Oregon	Pinot Gris
36,357	US	Bright and pure, with high natural acidity framing ripe flavors of peaches, pineapples, limes, kiwi fruits and smoky, oaky vanilla. Classic Edna Valley Chardonnay.	88	20	California	Chardonnay
65,828	US	With patience, the appellation's seminal vineyard reveals layer after aromatic layer of of damp wood, hot raspberry syrup laced with cardamom cream, and a bit of anise. Fresh cranberry hits the palate first, then picks up tobacco ash in the mid palate along with recently plucked oregano, thyme and marjoram.	92	60	California	Pinot Noir
85,485	US	Made with only 30% whole-cluster, this bottling by Bradley Brown allows lusher red-cherry fruit to show on the nose, alongside slate, mint and sandalwood notes. Those same red-cherry elements meet with cranberry on the palate, growing more complex as layers of graphite, bay leaf, pine needle and turned forest floor arise.	92	44	California	Pinot Noir
94,686	Spain	Hickory smoke and rubber band aromas control the nose. It feels stretched and acidic, with zesty plum and raspberry flavors. Oaky vanilla and creamy flavors surface, which lead to a long but undistinguished finish.	85	22	Northern Spain	Red Blend
70,556	US	This is a rich, flamboyant Viognier, showing lots of ripe, fruity flavors and a nice burst of acidity. It's high in alcohol, which gives some prickly heat, but the pineapple custard, tangerine and crème brûlée flavors are frankly delicious.	91	40	California	Viognier
71,475	US	Failla reaches into this new appellation within Napa Valley for this vineyard-designated Chard. It's a little heavier and softer than the Chardonnays from Sonoma County usually associated with the winery. Very rich in tropical fruits and pears, while the oak is lavish in vanilla and buttered toast. Drink now.	89	58	California	Chardonnay
30,677	France	Young, herbaceous wine, very fruity and lightly perfumed. It is crisp and delicate, with its citrus and pineapple fruits already lively and fresh.	85	14	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
42,319	France	This soft wine features attractive citrus and creamed-apple flavors. It is round, full, lightly spicy and presents an easy, immediately drinkable character.	86	15	Burgundy	Chardonnay
57,209	US	Everything in this full-bodied wine comes in big helpings, from the deep garnet color to aromas of rich oak and ripe fruit, to the mouthfilling black-cherry flavors. Yet it doesn't go over the top and achieves a high-level complexity that's delicious.	90	75	California	Pinot Noir
48,646	US	The vineyard has been a consistent source of good to great Pinot Noirs for Paraiso winery. Now La Rochelle dips into it, with successful results. It's a dry, elegantly silky but complex wine, with an array of cherry, raspberry, rose flower, cinnamon spice and smoky vanilla flavors, heightened with crisp acidity. Drink now.	90	40	California	Pinot Noir
106,833	US	This winery expertly differentiates its single-vineyard bottlings, here exploring the warmer, riper side of the grape, but with style and grace. Aromas of vanilla, sea-salt caramel, macadamia nut and hazelnut lead into a palate where lightly buttered yellow apples meet with jasmine tea, honeysuckle and a light touch of marzipan.	94	40	California	Chardonnay
20,992	France	Bold with tannins, this spicy wine is dense and dark. It's all structure and dryness at the moment. And, although the fruit is there, it looks as though the tannins will remain.	85	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
129,465	France	This is a crisp, dry wine that exibits delicious acidity, along with fresh citrus and green-apple flavors. It's bright and fruity, but has a textured undertow that promises good bottle aging. Ready to drink now, but could also benefit by cellaring for a year.	88	54	Champagne	Champagne Blend
106,723	US	Generous, fully ripe fruit flavors and an easy, melting texture make this wine easy to sink into. While it's full bodied, every sip delivers lively acidity and supportive tannins to give an appetizing grip and help the flavors continue through the finish.	90	49	California	Pinot Noir
31,252	US	Loaded with new oak, which in this case means it's cedary and very mentholly, Under that is some tobacco and coffee. Very drying tannins clamp down on the finish.	84	19	New York	Cabernet Sauvignon
68,705	France	Sometimes blended with grapes from the Fourchaume Premier Cru, this Vaulorent bottled on its own is a bit crisp—bright with citrus and toasty from wood aging. It will develop slowly over several years, so drink from 2019.	92	40	Burgundy	Chardonnay
102,578	US	There's residual sugar in this wine, to judge by the sweet cherry cola flavors with a hit of alcohol.	82	10	California	Red Blend
3,740	Italy	The nose is rather shy but eventually reveals aromas suggesting wet underbrush, wild herb, new leather and a hint of woodland berry. The slender palate is rather raw and diluted, offering hints of tart sour cherry and star anise alongside brisk acidity and angular tannins.	86	16	Tuscany	Sangiovese
30,143	US	Silverado has a mixed track record with Sauvignon Blanc, a difficult variety to get right in Napa Valley, as it's very vintage specific. It tastes a little on the sweet side, bearing flavors of green peas and oranges, with a savory spiciness.	87	22	California	Sauvignon Blanc
43,438	US	Planks of brawny oak are framed around the blueberry and raspberry fruit brimming in this Merlot, a tribute to Jack London's once-home in nearby Glen Ellen. The herbal component lingers ominously, a refreshing taste of mint popping out on the finish.	87	25	California	Merlot
25,641	US	This is a really nice dinner wine, posh and elegant, yet with richly ripe flavors. Fully dry, with a complex balance of herbs and fruits, and wonderfully rich tannins. Obviously built for the table, a wine that won't distract from your favorite dishes.	90	21	California	Merlot
8,873	France	This is rich, while also such a stylish wine. It is ripe and full of tannins while masking that firm structure with immensely generous fruit. The two give the wine power, density and elegance. Drink this impressive wine from 2025.	95	130	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
2,489	US	The Nashville-based R.S. Lipman Company, formerly just a Tennessee distributor, comes west for this deal of a wine, with lime blossoms, pink grapefruit and Gala apple slices on the nose. The palate is clean, crisp and rounded with lime spritzer and green-apple flavors.	88	15	California	Chardonnay
79,076	US	Adam Lee makes some concentrated wines each vintage, and this one shows cherry syrup, sandalwood and some smoke on the dense, layered nose. The palate is similarly deep, rich and complex, with tangy cherry, mulberry, dried ginger and mace flavoring, rising into a chorus of camphor on the finish.	94	58	California	Pinot Noir
104,298	France	An initial note of honey on the nose is followed by lemony freshness. The palate opens with very fine, delicate but lively mousse. The flavors are crisp and the fresh green-apple notes are backed with autolytic touches of lemon spongecake, the finish is dry, clean and refreshing.	89	20	Alsace	Sparkling Blend
104,744	Italy	This earthy red offers aromas suggesting stalky underbrush, Mediterranean scrub, toast, leather and a whiff of espresso that carry over to the robust palate along with dried cherry, grilled herb and a hint of licorice. Close-grained tannins provide the framework.	88	55	Tuscany	Sangiovese
65,370	US	This is an easy drinking Cabernet tasting of red cherry and cranberry with a slight layer of herb that would suffice for a midweek meal.	84	20	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
61,309	Italy	This zesty red has pretty aromas that suggest small red berry, blue flower and a whiff of moist soil. The vibrant palate offers sour cherry, pomegranate and a hint of anise alongside zesty acidity and refined tannins.	88	30	Tuscany	Sangiovese
10,078	Spain	Unusual exotic-leaning aromas of lavender, violet, cardamom and anise are intriguing. In the mouth, this has textural issues, namely it's abrupt and tannic. Flavors of mild chocolate, carob and blueberry are uncommon for Ribera del Duero.	88	35	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
125,715	France	This dense wine has a strong sense of dry tannins as well as red-berry acidity. It is balanced, in keeping with the cherry and strawberry fruits. The acidity, cutting through, keeps the wine bright and fruity. The end is strawberry jam with attractive acidity. Drink from 2018.	91	90	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
97,475	US	Fairly elegant and reserved on the nose, this shows black raspberry and boysenberry notes, along with leather and baking spice. It's medium-bodied on the palate, with candied strawberry, fennel pollen and wild herb flavors.	89	35	California	Cabernet Franc
568	US	This is a lovely wine, classically rendered in cedar, herb and red cherry. The dried herb and forest floor elements persist on the palate, with bursts of acidity giving it life and lingering persistence, the tannins well-integrated.	93	70	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
17,666	US	This dry-farmed vineyard is often challenging for Winemaker Billy Wathen, but it worked this vintage, showing bright and ripe aromas of apple blossom, pear, honey and sweet lemon, all underlined by white-rock minerality. The lively palate shows lime soda and chalk flavors, with a pear-skin bitterness and ample acidity, which keeps the mouth tingling deep into the finish.	92	37	California	Chardonnay
110,933	US	Sparkling reds may never be a strong domestic category, but some uniquely compelling examples have recently turned up. This one shows juicy and tart red cherry, plum, cola and shiitake scents, delivered with a yeasty touch. The foamy palate brings forth red cherry, earth and sourdough flavors.	90	45	California	Sparkling Blend
106,664	US	Pollen and dusty mineral tones lend earthiness to melon and lychee aromas on this off-dry Gewürztraminer. Medium bodied in style, it balances tart tangerine acidity with a round, rich mouthfeel.	83	20	New York	Gewürztraminer

11,132

US

Medium body and an attractive earthy, oaky flavor profile make this wine a little different from the norm and a great value. It has complexity in the red cherry, rhubarb and sweet-spice flavors, and a supple texture with a touch of tannin.

87

13

California

Pinot Noir

39,978

US

Smoky, elegant and soft aromas of leather, pepper and berry lead into flavors of cherry and cigarbox spice on the palate of this approachable Cabernet. The wine is not terribly complex, but good structure and acidity give it cellaring potential, and paired with duck, lamb or beef dishes, it will make a very nice addition to the table.

84

19

New York

Cabernet Sauvignon

76,513

Argentina

Slightly briny aromas akin to orange peel open this citric PG. Dry orange flavors are more or less it, while this holds steady and stays fresh across a standard finish.

87

12

Mendoza Province

Pinot Grigio

124,161

France

High-toast aromas from the wood aging are followed on the palate by more layers of toast and spice. Behind this wood and tannin there is plenty of the ripe, soft fruit that is more typical of this appellation. The wine will fill out and give some generous fruit. Drink from 2019.

90

35

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

114,076

US

Low in alcohol for a Syrah, this shows light, underripe flavors of strawberry and white pepper. Not particularly complex, it's maturing quickly and should be consumed over the next couple of years.

85

20

Oregon

Syrah

112,725

US

A little on the sugary sweet side, but the apricot and tangerine jam flavors are brightened by crisp acidity.

84

12

California

Pinot Grigio

86,984

Spain

Pale salmon in color, this Brut Nature leads with clean, stony aromas that are more neutral than expressive. It's fresh, crisp and tight on the palate, with light, dry currant and raspberry flavors that feel clean on the finish.

89

22

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

120,554

US

The 2011 Aurora Vineyard Chardonnay comes across as super rich, without being superripe—a neat trick. It's lush and toasty from the moment the cork is pulled, showing mixed tropical-fruit flavors buoyed with moderate acidity. The perfumed nose carries through in the mouth, almost like a Gewürztraminer.

91

60

Oregon

Chardonnay

6,168

France

A rich, soft, well- balanced wine. There is crispness, but this is given character by toast from some good bottle age, at least in the sample tasted here. The wine is suffused with white fruit flavors, which give a soft, creamy aftertaste.

89

63

Champagne

Champagne Blend

101,606

US

Once again, here is a Seven Hills wine that opens with truly lovely aromatics. It's a clean varietal expression of Syrah, with medium weight, wild berries and finishing highlights of pepper, earth, sea salt, baking spices and cassis.

92

22

Washington

Syrah

96,585

US

This is a sound example of the warm-climate style of Zinfandel. It's high alcohol gives it a hot, chili-pepper-like sting, and the blackberry fruit has a Port-like, raisiny edge.

84

38

California

Zinfandel

96,732

US

There's nothing elegant about this Cabernet, but it does score high on the deliciousness scale. Shows Dry Creek's rustic tannin structure, with a scoury mouthfeel, but the blackberry, blueberry and currant flavors, which are accented with smoky oak, are incredible. Drink it over the next few years, and watch it change as it breathes in the glass.

92

38

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

44,285

US

There is a very juicy nose to this bottling, with dark plum, berry and the slightest hint of baking spice. Red cherry and cranberry flavors pop on the palate, alongside decent helping of clove-like spice, but it's the stony grip that takes this one to the next level.

88

36

California

Grenache

116,452

US

Shows Petite Sirah's firm tannins, giving the wine a robust mouthfeel. Also you'll find Paso softness and high alcohol ripeness, with sweet, jammy blackberry, cherry and cola flavors. Ready now with barbecue.

86

38

California

Petite Sirah

106,494

Australia

Lean and crisp in style, this is citrusy through and through. Although a bit one-dimensional, it's clean and refreshing, with a pleasantly affordable price tag.

85

11

South Australia

Chardonnay

119,091

US

Smoky, charred meat notes add complexity to flavors of blackberries, cocoa, cedar and spice in this St. Helena Syrah. Its tannic complexity lifts the palate to nobility. Dramatically dark in color and rich in profile, it's the winery's best bottling since 2008. It needs a few years to meld, so drink from 2015–2017.

91

38

California

Syrah

29,121

Italy

Aromas of pressed violet, ripe berry, menthol and a touch of exotic spice emerge on this full-bodied red. Showing its hot-vintage origins, the firm palate doesn't boast a lot of fruit richness but offers licorice, espresso, powdered sage and dried cherry accompanied by bracing, grainy tannins.

89

115

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

38,654

US

Rich in oak and tannin, this wine delivers big flavors of blackberry and plum, supported by rounded layers of soft acidity and mouthfeel. Dark in color, it's a bold wine with plenty of personality and power.

89

35

California

Malbec

59,452

US

This tradition-bucking blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Viognier, 20% Sémillon and 20% Roussanne from three different vineyards is very subtle and clean on the nose with aromas of yellow apple, crisp pear, ripe grapefruit skins and the lightest hint of honey. The crisp palate is very grippy in texture, with pear and light lemon spray flavors. It will likely age well, due to strong acidity.

90

20

California

White Blend

111,830

US

This is bone dry, with plenty of acidity and tough tannins. It's not offering much relief, despite an evident core of blackberries, currants and cherries. Those tannins really lock the palate down, like a sandpaper straitjacket on the tongue. But you have to consider its origin in Yountville, a cool area noted for ageable wines. It hould begin to resolve its difficulties by 2016.

91

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

118,597

US

A little too ripe, with jammy raspberry, cherry, blackberry and Dr. Pepper flavors that have a pie-filling sweetness. Other than that, structurally, the wine has smooth, ripe tannins and a lush coating of oak.

86

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

116,603

US

Cola spice and eager acidity mark this blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Zinfandel, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Syrah, which spent time in both French and American oak. Soft and medium in weight, it's enjoyable now and an easy crowd pleaser, with a long, spicy finish.

90

39

California

Red Blend

104,213

US

Grenache and Syrah are the mainstays here, with a splash of Mourvèdre completing the Third Man blend. For the first time, Uplands contributes some of the fruit. It's immensely fragrant, fruity, peppery and rich with flavors of strawberry, raspberry, cherry and plum. There is nothing simple here; scents and flavors compound and linger, and the more you look, the more you find.

94

50

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

125,384

US

One of the few bubbling Pinot Grigios available in California, there's enough promise here to wonder why not more. Pink grapefruit, ripe peach, kiwi and Gravenstein apple aromas show on the nose, while the palate picks up light apple cider, lime juice and jasmine flavors.

88

19

California

Pinot Grigio

30,194

Italy

Traditional and bright with berry aromatics that really pop, Sesti's Brunello delivers a steady stream of cherry, cassis, dried ginger, leather and tobacco aromas. The acidity feels sharply etched in the mouth and the wine could use 5–7 years in the cellar to soften.

90

94

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

69,613

US

The aromas of this wine from a vineyard in the Corralitos area somehow reflect its orange color (perhaps due to three weeks of skin contact), with orange rose petals and iced rooibos tea, yet with a steely minerality more common in pale white wines. The palate shows pickled plums and stewed stone fruits against a gunmetal backdrop and citrus peel bite. It's unique and very tasty.

91

35

California

Pinot Gris

38,981

US

A pretty, perfumed Pinot Noir, with gorgeous streaks of kir and vibrant blackberry and cherry. It's subtle and structured, with a pronounced layer of earthy forest floor on the finish. With sprinklings of spice, it dazzles from beginning to end.

96

58

California

Pinot Noir

3,197

US

This smooth, lean red attractively delivers above its price point. Tart in clove and currant, it finishes with a whiplash of mocha.

90

22

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

721

Argentina

Saucy berry and tea aromas are herbal, earthy and stewed. This feels full but syrupy. Flavors of cooked berry, molasses and mocha finish sweet and soupy, with only a touch of acidic offset.

85

14

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

80,826

US

This wine opens with very flinty aromas of struck graphite and pencil shavings, with touches of fermenting orange and cranberry. It's light in weight but darkly flavored on the palate, with slate and clove spice.

89

46

California

Pinot Noir

48,080

France

A rare rosé Champagne whose color comes from Pinot Noir skins rather than from added red wine, this has vivid colors of orange and onion skin. It is rich, tasting as much like wine as like sparkling wine, with a full and ripe, yet dry, feel.

88

69

Champagne

Pinot Noir

45,732

France

This is a ripe, fruity wine that comes from river plain vineyards of Saint-Emilion. It has rich tannins and juicy blackberry and black-plum fruits. The structure is comfortably cushioned in the generous texture. Drink this wine from 2017.

90

50

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

40,308

US

This is a Pinot Noir of considerable force. Your first impression is of irrepressible power, with masses of fruit punching through an overlay of tannin and oak. Then the flavors fantail out, suggesting cherries, cola, currants and spices that are rich and complex through the long finish. For all its richness, the wine retains an agreeable delicacy of texture. Comprised of lots selected by winemaker Bob Cabral for this anniversary bottling, it's right up there with Williams Selyem's best 2010 Pinots, and just as ageable. Drink now–2022. The wine is only available as part of a two-pack from the winery for $250; the other bottle is the 2010 Morning Dew Ranch Pinot Noir, from Anderson Valley.

97

125

California

Pinot Noir

120,431

US

This famous site was planted in 1972 by Dick Erath, and the 44-year-old vines deliver an aromatic, elegant yet substantive bottle of Pinot. It's a complex mix of wild berries, cherries and chocolate, showing the generous flavors of the vintage. Delicious already, it's got the power and presence to age gracefully through 2023.

93

75

Oregon

Pinot Noir

30,872

US

A touch of the veggies, particularly asparagus and bell pepper, mix with citrus in this fuller-bodied white. While it isn't exactly a heavyweight, the ample body is weighed down by lower than average acidity. On the back end, the long, persistent finish is adequate, but the green element that's so present up front comes back in force.

87

15

California

Sauvignon Blanc

47,100

Portugal

The wine is full of acidity and with stalky fruit. There is a sharp edge that detracts from the otherwise fruity character of this light crisp wine. This is ready to drink now.

85

13

Douro

Portuguese Red

71,949

Italy

Black-skinned berry, cedar and espresso scents lead the nose of this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. The firm palate delivers blackberry, and licorice flavors and a toasted note, set against assertive tannins. Enjoy through 2019.

89

75

Tuscany

Red Blend

55,515

US

Aromas of slightly overripe fruit lead to just off-dry fruit flavors. It lacks a sense of cohesion.

83

11

Washington

Pinot Gris

26,709

US

Decadent chocolate and coconut macaroon accent sweet tannin and generous oak in this softly textured wine, made in small amounts. The finish is powerful and ripe.

88

55

California

Merlot

96,921

US

Powerful punches of black licorice dominate in this stewy, chewy, generously oaked wine, grown on a mountainous appellation. It finds a softness and gentle fruit character midway through on the palate, finishing on supple notes of tobacco.

87

70

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

44,198

US

This dark, concentrated wine is jammy in red and black fruit, with a doughy hint of biscuits. On the heavier side, it is structured with a hit of acidity on the dry, tannic finish. A sizable wine, it will require sizable pairings to tame its strength.

87

42

California

Syrah

123,338

Argentina

Dark, compact and with good lift. The nose is lively and the palate shows medicinal black cherry and coffee flavors. Juicy enough, with driving but blended acidity pushing a spicy, minty finish. Peppy but nice for Argentine Merlot.

88

16

Mendoza Province

Merlot

24,811

US

There's been lots to like from this SoCal winery, and this bottling adds to the list. Rusty in color, it offers cranberry, strawberry, sagebrush and iron aromas. The palate pops with zesty pomegranate fruit, lifted by herbal garrigue notes and spice.

93

35

California

Pinot Noir

108,238

Spain

Complete and inviting aromas of plum and raisin make a positive statement without shouting. This feels stout, dense and layered, while a flavor combination of blackberry, black currant, herbs de Provence and dark chocolate finishes earthy, lightly baked and moderately complex. Drink through 2021.

92

39

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

18,201

US

More like Zinfandel with its peppery, prickly mouthfeel, but not a bad wine for everyday purposes. It's dry and full-bodied and brisk, with blackberry, currant and herb flavors.

85

8

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

94,342

US

This seems like one of the sweeter Gewürztraminers out there, with flavors of white sugar, Asian pear, lychee and spice. The sweetness is balanced with crisp acidity.

85

15

California

Gewürztraminer

125,821

US

Tastes both underripe and overripe at the same time, with some polished cherry flavors in the middle. Lots of acidity makes it sour. A dry, somewhat rustic wine that rich meats and cheeses will help fatten.

85

30

California

Malbec

19,808

US

Other than being very sweet, this dessert wine has little to recommend it. It's soft and rich in white sugar flavors, with traces of oranges, red currants, chocolate and anise. High alcohol gives it a peppery burn.

83

20

California

Zinfandel

93,584

France

This wine is dominated by Grenache, which makes up 80% of the blend. That gives the spice and pepper edge as well as bringing out delicious red-berry fruits and crisp acidity. The wine, with its bright aftertaste,is ready to drink now.

87

19

Provence

Rosé

18,777

France

Hints of apricot mingle in the red fruit aromas of this fresh rosé sparkler. The mousse is foaming but the palate has a bitter edge. Dryness and structure mean that this will fare better with earthy food.

88

19

Alsace

Sparkling Blend

117,394

Argentina

A big and mauling version of Malbec. The nose is minty and dark, while the palate runs syrupy and full, with heavy black-fruit flavors darkened even more by a persistent peppery streak. Much less restrained and elegant than the Kaiken Ultra.

85

14

Mendoza Province

Malbec

9,600

US

This is 100% Riesling, but with less than half the residual sugar of the winery's 2011 vintage. Sourced from the Evergreen Vineyard in the up-and-coming Ancient Lakes AVA, it has great acidity and purity of fruit, along with the minerality for which the region is known. Dense flavors of lime, grapefruit and pineapple are at the core of this wonderfully concentrated, expressive Riesling.

93

18

Washington

Riesling

79,386

US

This wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc (33%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) and Merlot (20%) topped off with Malbec and Petit Verdot. It brings aromas of leafy herbs and dark brewed coffee that lead to easy-drinking flavors that persist.

90

40

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

62,603

US

Very ripe, almost like the berry-cherry filling from a pastry, this Zin also has notes of chocolate and sweet roasted coconut. It's rough and ready in the mouth, with jagged tannins, and needs meats and cheeses to balance it.

83

26

California

Zinfandel

87,146

Germany

Tasted five years after bottling, this profoundly elegant spätlese exhibits a minerality that penetrates through layers of fruit and honey. Struck flint and slate offer dark counterpoints to a lush, creamy palate full of ripe tangerine and apple marmalade flavors. It's a penetrating, deftly balanced wine that's both stimulating and thought-provoking. Drink now through 2021.

95

35

Mosel

Riesling

17,831

US

With a slight sweetness to the raspberry, cherry, pink grapefruit, clove and pepper flavors, this blush is balanced by crisp, citrusy acidity. If you like to drink wine with sushi or Chinese food, this is a good bet.

86

16

California

Barbera

54,509

Italy

Made with 70% Nebbiolo, 20% Croatina and 10% Vespolina, this has enticing scents of rose, pressed violet, wild berry and a hint of menthol. The bright, silky palate delivers juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2021.

90

32

Piedmont

Red Blend

80,971

Italy

Red berry, violet and a whiff of moist earth lead the nose on this simple red. The lean, rather diluted palate shows tart sour cherry, cranberry and a hint of graphite alongside bracing acidity. Fleeting tannins give it an abrupt finish.

85

20

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

11,569

US

This is a beautifully balanced and well-rounded wine that has light spicy aromas and generous fruit flavors. Made from nearly equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the mouthfilling texture boasts tiny bubbles, good acidity and excellent fruit concentration.

91

25

California

Sparkling Blend

82,141

Argentina

Charred, almost burnt aromas dominate the nose on this muscular, tannic Malbec. Like the nose, this tastes largely of blackened hickory and coffee, meaning the fruit is buried under a lot of barrel weight. Drink through 2027.

91

60

Mendoza Province

Malbec

59,066

US

This aromatic wine suggests candied red apple, jasmine and ale. It's medium sweet with a lightly spritzy feel and ale notes throughout.

84

10

Washington

Riesling

2,977

France

This vineyard is at one of the highest Castillon points. Big in tannins and also fruit, this is a dense wine. It has a dry core as well as rich blackberry fruits. Concentrated and full, the wine will be seriously worth drinking from 2019.

91

25

Bordeaux

Merlot

127,974

US

This pure Cabernet Franc was barrel-aged for 21 months in 30% new French oak. That barrel toast stands out, along with flavors of tart berries, hints of green fruit and earthy tannins. Aeration is a good idea for this young wine.

87

29

Oregon

Cabernet Franc

105,635

US

This stainless-steel take shows lime juice, golden apples and white pepper on the lean but ever-so-slightly warm nose. The palate is driven by a citrusy bitterness, showing tangerine peels and more squeezed lime throughout.

89

18

California

Chardonnay

77,769

US

This is a bright, spicy, crisply defined wine, and an overall supervalue. Clean and fresh flavors of apple and pear come lightly spiced, and are set against refreshing natural acidity. The fruit is sourced from a vineyard block planted in 1978.

91

12

Oregon

Pinot Gris

36,357

US

Bright and pure, with high natural acidity framing ripe flavors of peaches, pineapples, limes, kiwi fruits and smoky, oaky vanilla. Classic Edna Valley Chardonnay.

88

20

California

Chardonnay

65,828

US

With patience, the appellation's seminal vineyard reveals layer after aromatic layer of of damp wood, hot raspberry syrup laced with cardamom cream, and a bit of anise. Fresh cranberry hits the palate first, then picks up tobacco ash in the mid palate along with recently plucked oregano, thyme and marjoram.

92

60

California

Pinot Noir

85,485

US

Made with only 30% whole-cluster, this bottling by Bradley Brown allows lusher red-cherry fruit to show on the nose, alongside slate, mint and sandalwood notes. Those same red-cherry elements meet with cranberry on the palate, growing more complex as layers of graphite, bay leaf, pine needle and turned forest floor arise.

92

44

California

Pinot Noir

94,686

Spain

Hickory smoke and rubber band aromas control the nose. It feels stretched and acidic, with zesty plum and raspberry flavors. Oaky vanilla and creamy flavors surface, which lead to a long but undistinguished finish.

85

22

Northern Spain

Red Blend

70,556

US

This is a rich, flamboyant Viognier, showing lots of ripe, fruity flavors and a nice burst of acidity. It's high in alcohol, which gives some prickly heat, but the pineapple custard, tangerine and crème brûlée flavors are frankly delicious.

91

40

California

Viognier

71,475

US

Failla reaches into this new appellation within Napa Valley for this vineyard-designated Chard. It's a little heavier and softer than the Chardonnays from Sonoma County usually associated with the winery. Very rich in tropical fruits and pears, while the oak is lavish in vanilla and buttered toast. Drink now.

89

58

California

Chardonnay

30,677

France

Young, herbaceous wine, very fruity and lightly perfumed. It is crisp and delicate, with its citrus and pineapple fruits already lively and fresh.

85

14

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

42,319

France

This soft wine features attractive citrus and creamed-apple flavors. It is round, full, lightly spicy and presents an easy, immediately drinkable character.

86

15

Burgundy

Chardonnay

57,209

US

Everything in this full-bodied wine comes in big helpings, from the deep garnet color to aromas of rich oak and ripe fruit, to the mouthfilling black-cherry flavors. Yet it doesn't go over the top and achieves a high-level complexity that's delicious.

90

75

California

Pinot Noir

48,646

US

The vineyard has been a consistent source of good to great Pinot Noirs for Paraiso winery. Now La Rochelle dips into it, with successful results. It's a dry, elegantly silky but complex wine, with an array of cherry, raspberry, rose flower, cinnamon spice and smoky vanilla flavors, heightened with crisp acidity. Drink now.

90

40

California

Pinot Noir

106,833

US

This winery expertly differentiates its single-vineyard bottlings, here exploring the warmer, riper side of the grape, but with style and grace. Aromas of vanilla, sea-salt caramel, macadamia nut and hazelnut lead into a palate where lightly buttered yellow apples meet with jasmine tea, honeysuckle and a light touch of marzipan.

94

40

California

Chardonnay

20,992

France

Bold with tannins, this spicy wine is dense and dark. It's all structure and dryness at the moment. And, although the fruit is there, it looks as though the tannins will remain.

85

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

129,465

France

This is a crisp, dry wine that exibits delicious acidity, along with fresh citrus and green-apple flavors. It's bright and fruity, but has a textured undertow that promises good bottle aging. Ready to drink now, but could also benefit by cellaring for a year.

88

54

Champagne

Champagne Blend

106,723

US

Generous, fully ripe fruit flavors and an easy, melting texture make this wine easy to sink into. While it's full bodied, every sip delivers lively acidity and supportive tannins to give an appetizing grip and help the flavors continue through the finish.

90

49

California

Pinot Noir

31,252

US

Loaded with new oak, which in this case means it's cedary and very mentholly, Under that is some tobacco and coffee. Very drying tannins clamp down on the finish.

84

19

New York

Cabernet Sauvignon

68,705

France

Sometimes blended with grapes from the Fourchaume Premier Cru, this Vaulorent bottled on its own is a bit crisp—bright with citrus and toasty from wood aging. It will develop slowly over several years, so drink from 2019.

92

40

Burgundy

Chardonnay

102,578

US

There's residual sugar in this wine, to judge by the sweet cherry cola flavors with a hit of alcohol.

82

10

California

Red Blend

3,740

Italy

The nose is rather shy but eventually reveals aromas suggesting wet underbrush, wild herb, new leather and a hint of woodland berry. The slender palate is rather raw and diluted, offering hints of tart sour cherry and star anise alongside brisk acidity and angular tannins.

86

16

Tuscany

Sangiovese

30,143

US

Silverado has a mixed track record with Sauvignon Blanc, a difficult variety to get right in Napa Valley, as it's very vintage specific. It tastes a little on the sweet side, bearing flavors of green peas and oranges, with a savory spiciness.

87

22

California

Sauvignon Blanc

43,438

US

Planks of brawny oak are framed around the blueberry and raspberry fruit brimming in this Merlot, a tribute to Jack London's once-home in nearby Glen Ellen. The herbal component lingers ominously, a refreshing taste of mint popping out on the finish.

87

25

California

Merlot

25,641

US

This is a really nice dinner wine, posh and elegant, yet with richly ripe flavors. Fully dry, with a complex balance of herbs and fruits, and wonderfully rich tannins. Obviously built for the table, a wine that won't distract from your favorite dishes.

90

21

California

Merlot

8,873

France

This is rich, while also such a stylish wine. It is ripe and full of tannins while masking that firm structure with immensely generous fruit. The two give the wine power, density and elegance. Drink this impressive wine from 2025.

95

130

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

2,489

US

The Nashville-based R.S. Lipman Company, formerly just a Tennessee distributor, comes west for this deal of a wine, with lime blossoms, pink grapefruit and Gala apple slices on the nose. The palate is clean, crisp and rounded with lime spritzer and green-apple flavors.

88

15

California

Chardonnay

79,076

US

Adam Lee makes some concentrated wines each vintage, and this one shows cherry syrup, sandalwood and some smoke on the dense, layered nose. The palate is similarly deep, rich and complex, with tangy cherry, mulberry, dried ginger and mace flavoring, rising into a chorus of camphor on the finish.

94

58

California

Pinot Noir

104,298

France

An initial note of honey on the nose is followed by lemony freshness. The palate opens with very fine, delicate but lively mousse. The flavors are crisp and the fresh green-apple notes are backed with autolytic touches of lemon spongecake, the finish is dry, clean and refreshing.

89

20

Alsace

Sparkling Blend

104,744

Italy

This earthy red offers aromas suggesting stalky underbrush, Mediterranean scrub, toast, leather and a whiff of espresso that carry over to the robust palate along with dried cherry, grilled herb and a hint of licorice. Close-grained tannins provide the framework.

88

55

Tuscany

Sangiovese

65,370

US

This is an easy drinking Cabernet tasting of red cherry and cranberry with a slight layer of herb that would suffice for a midweek meal.

84

20

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

61,309

Italy

This zesty red has pretty aromas that suggest small red berry, blue flower and a whiff of moist soil. The vibrant palate offers sour cherry, pomegranate and a hint of anise alongside zesty acidity and refined tannins.

88

30

Tuscany

Sangiovese

10,078

Spain

Unusual exotic-leaning aromas of lavender, violet, cardamom and anise are intriguing. In the mouth, this has textural issues, namely it's abrupt and tannic. Flavors of mild chocolate, carob and blueberry are uncommon for Ribera del Duero.

88

35

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

125,715

France

This dense wine has a strong sense of dry tannins as well as red-berry acidity. It is balanced, in keeping with the cherry and strawberry fruits. The acidity, cutting through, keeps the wine bright and fruity. The end is strawberry jam with attractive acidity. Drink from 2018.

91

90

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

97,475

US

Fairly elegant and reserved on the nose, this shows black raspberry and boysenberry notes, along with leather and baking spice. It's medium-bodied on the palate, with candied strawberry, fennel pollen and wild herb flavors.

89

35

California

Cabernet Franc

568

US

This is a lovely wine, classically rendered in cedar, herb and red cherry. The dried herb and forest floor elements persist on the palate, with bursts of acidity giving it life and lingering persistence, the tannins well-integrated.

93

70

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

17,666

US

This dry-farmed vineyard is often challenging for Winemaker Billy Wathen, but it worked this vintage, showing bright and ripe aromas of apple blossom, pear, honey and sweet lemon, all underlined by white-rock minerality. The lively palate shows lime soda and chalk flavors, with a pear-skin bitterness and ample acidity, which keeps the mouth tingling deep into the finish.

92

37

California

Chardonnay

110,933

US

Sparkling reds may never be a strong domestic category, but some uniquely compelling examples have recently turned up. This one shows juicy and tart red cherry, plum, cola and shiitake scents, delivered with a yeasty touch. The foamy palate brings forth red cherry, earth and sourdough flavors.

90

45

California

Sparkling Blend

106,664

US

Pollen and dusty mineral tones lend earthiness to melon and lychee aromas on this off-dry Gewürztraminer. Medium bodied in style, it balances tart tangerine acidity with a round, rich mouthfeel.

83

20

New York

Gewürztraminer