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
38,088	US	This is a Bordeaux-style blend, 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc and Merlot filling it out. All the fruit comes from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard. The initial aromas are dominated with sweet, toasty, pretty new French oak, with the irresistible flavors of mocha following. As good as it is, the fruit seems light and submerged, with little depth. This is a wine to enjoy in its youth.	89	43	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
8,742	US	A thin wisp of smoke lends complexity to a bouquet full of sunny peaches and apricots on this perfumed Riesling. Off-dry in style, sweet pink-grapefruit flavor quenches the palate. It's dancingly light in body yet surprisingly powerful in concentration.	89	14	New York	Riesling
21,876	US	This is a big, gutsy Syrah. It's strong and astringent in tannins and potent in ripe, fruity blackberries and plums, with a spicy edge of smoked bacon. The overall balance testifies to a pedigreed address and superior grapegrowing. As savory as it is, it's not really ready for drinking. Hold for up to six years.	92	40	California	Syrah
82,886	France	Full, creamy and soft, this is a rich Champagne, very much a food wine. It has great ripe swathes of peach and pineapple flavors, rounded by toast. While 2000 is not a vintage for aging, this opulent Champagne may be the exception.	95	150	Champagne	Champagne Blend
35,508	US	Earth, mint and blackberry flavors make this full-bodied and firmly-tannic wine both flavorful and eccentric. As the wine sits in the glass for several minutes the aroma become like beef bouillon and the texture on the palate is a bit astringent.	82	35	California	Merlot
14,567	US	Tart and tightly wound fruit flavors range from watermelon to strawberry, with a heavy infusion of citrus. It's sharply acidic, with some suggestions of toast from light barrel aging. A streak of cola runs through the finish.	89	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
125,057	US	The previous vintage of this sweet Pinot Gris was finished at 30 g/L residual sugar; this drops it down to half that. It's a sugary, spritzy wine that has not quite jelled the way the 2012 did, though time may help to pull it together. Right now it's just simple and sweet.	86	19	Washington	Pinot Gris
90,348	France	Initially earthy aromas give way to red fruits. The wine follows the same pattern, the barnyard flavors opening out with the ripe red plum and strawberry fruits. There is a delicious richness here, balanced with acidity and firm tannins.	92	95	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
38,417	US	This wine has deeply concentrated yet focused and spicy purple-fruit tones. It's generously endowed with notes of tobacco, licorice, mineral and pepper. The highlights keep piling on through a finish that seems to run for several minutes. This bold wine is enjoyable now but should also cellar well through 2020.	94	59	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
123,130	Australia	The Ratbag makes for a pleasant, if somewhat generic dry red. Dried fruit and prune notes are complemented by chocolate overtones and the mouthfeel is soft and user-friendly.	84	18	South Australia	Merlot
104,135	US	Like a fruit juice drink, with sugary pineapple, mango and orange flavors. The acidity is bright, but this Chardonnay is more like a dessert wine than a dry table wine.	84	18	California	Chardonnay
30,612	US	Grenache's essential fruity character is well-preserved thanks to the use of a whole berry press. Popcorn pink in color, it offers sweetly peachy flavors adorned by wild strawberry and tangerine. The wine light and minerally.	88	24	California	Grenache
97,793	US	One of the first 2014s available, this obscure yet successful blend of 71% Grenache Blanc and 29% Albariño invites the nose with vanilla-laced apple custard, orange blossom and baking soda aromas. It's bright on the tight and pithy palate, with bouncy apple cider flavors as well as poached pear and kaffir lime.	88	25	California	White Blend
21,018	US	Light peach and ale notes mark the nose of this wine. The palate is dry, and the flavors somewhat flat, making it hard to ascertain the variety.	84	16	Washington	Pinot Gris
62,885	US	The black pepper and cocoa flavors that always mark this fine vineyard show up again in this dry, tannic wine. So do the blackberries and cassis that make it so sweetly fruity. The acidity is awkward, though, and tastes like it was added to balance out a high alcohol wine.	86	36	California	Syrah
99,106	US	Ripe, strawberry/raspberry preserves, with a pleasing, jammy, fruity, luscious richness. Ten percent Petite Sirah adds color and punch. There's a fair amount of tannin, but overall a nice balance, and the plush fruit is the highlight.	89	19	California	Zinfandel
72,877	US	This bold, densely flavored and impressively tannic wine is dry, very well structured and will be interesting to age until 2018–2019. It smells darkly fruity, smoky and spicy, and tastes like cranberry and black cherry, finishing with a firm tang of tannin. It will be best after 2018.	91	30	California	Red Blend
101,318	Italy	From one of Barbaresco's most celebrated vineyard crus, this ruby-colored wine exhibits loads of intensity and power in the form of cherry, cassis, leather, tar and cola. The wine's compact, tonic mouthfeel would make a great companion to rich, sophisticated cuisine.	89	54	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
123,616	Spain	Smoky, charred aromas of maple, blackened spices and baked berry fruits set up a woody, fully oaked palate with good texture and weight. This features a blast of hickory flavor on top of berry and plum fruit, while the finish is grabby and tannic.	89	23	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
28,153	US	A beautiful Cabernet that shows the promise of this Lake County appellation. Coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. It's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.	90	28	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
126,383	US	With its dryness and firm tannins, there's lots of structural integrity in this Cab. New oak adds the right suggestions of toast and wood spices. It's an elegantly streamlined wine whose nuanced berry, cherry and currant flavors won't overwhelm a beautiful cut of beef.	91	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
17,172	US	This is a superb Cab at this price and case production level, tasting like one much smaller in production. With hearty tannins, it offers nuanced cranberry fruit and notable acidity, full body and a finish combining black olive and tobacco. Ready to enjoy now, it'll be just as good 2017–2019.	89	20	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
111,807	US	A dry, tannic Zinfandel from Amador, fairly large production at 14,000 cases a year, with enough blueberry, sweet black olive and spice on the finish to make the whole package a nicely made bottling from a Sierra Foothills Zin specialist.	86	18	California	Zinfandel
32,993	US	This wine is ripe and lush in style, but hints of tart lemons and limes add brightness and an acidic edge. The finish is a tad candied.	85	25	California	Sauvignon Blanc
98,041	Italy	Stewed black fruit, prune, raisin, espresso and exotic spice aromas lead the nose on this blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. The densely concentrated palate is dominated by toasted oak, grilled bell peppers and notes of black plum, all sweetened up with coffee, dark chocolate and sugary vanilla extract. It closes on a note of bitter wood tannins.	87	97	Tuscany	Red Blend
29,702	US	Steely and polished, this dry, intensely mineral Riesling calibrates savory apple and pear flavors against tart lemon, tangerine and pineapple acidity. The moderately long finish reverberates with a zesty bite of bitter lime skin.	88	20	New York	Riesling
122,119	US	A tower of tannin shapes this deep-colored and ripely fruity wine into an awesome drink. Layers of fine tannins pile up to make a firm, thick texture that supports lots of deep berry flavors and cleans the palate as you sip. It will make a good match with grilled and roasted beef, lamb or game.	91	11	California	Petite Sirah
748	US	The sweet scent of raspberry and strawberry preserves waft from this Cab Franc icewine from Casa Larga. On the palate as well, there's a nice concentration of preserved berry flavors that soar on the palate with a bright, sunny acidity. Finishes clean and long with just a hint of autumn leaves and bramble.	87	75	New York	Cabernet Franc
60,119	US	This is a smooth and gently fruity wine. Aromas are subtle, fresh and slightly floral, while the more-forward flavors resemble peaches and honeydew melons. The texture is smooth rather than tart, and the wine may have a touch of residual sugar to keep it tasting fruity and feeling rounded.	87	18	California	Riesling
73,881	France	Offers an intriguing nose with ginger, lime and floral elements. The mouthfeel is ephemeral—almost too light—but there’s a good case to be made for this style when bubbles are involved. Green apple, an almost lilac note, and lime on the palate. Finishes nicely, too.	91	27	Champagne	Champagne Blend
108,373	France	Across the river Dordogne from Castillon, the vineyard of Lajarre is on the first slope. This soft and ripe wine has black currant fruitiness, fresh acidity and a judicious use of wood aging. It still shows the structure of 2010, so will be better from 2015.	86	35	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
74,915	US	Clean and fresh, this juicy wine carries a bit of fruit sweetness, but the flavors are tilted toward minerality rather than fruitiness. It's wonderfully refreshing, with a mix of citrus rind, melon and white peach working into an extended, palate-cleansing finish.	90	10	Washington	Riesling
46,249	US	Heavy tannins, which accentuate the acids, lock this wine down now, making it astringently dry and tart. Underneath all that are deep, earthy flavors of blackberries, coffee and pepper. Doesn't seem to be ageworthy, so drink up.	86	32	California	Petite Sirah
100,406	Italy	Here's a gorgeous Riserva expression of Pinot Grigio with a creamy, dense mouthfeel and prominent aromas of peach cream, apricot, almond paste and honey. Those yellow fruit flavors last long on the palate and would pair with shellfish or white meat. Very nice.	91	30	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
70,241	US	Grenadine and flavors of red cherry provide a brightness to this wine that is otherwise characterized by juicy texture and mild-mannered use of oak. Enjoyable and soft, it's priced well and is worth stocking up on for everyday meals.	88	10	California	Merlot
44,367	France	Grown on gravel terraces that rise up from the Loire, this wine is both structuredand fruity. Fresh juicy black currant flavors bring acidity along with them, leaving a light tannic structure at the end. Drink now.	87	15	Loire Valley	Cabernet Franc
20,133	Spain	Made from Pinot Noir, this is an orange-tan color and offers dried, oxidized aromas of orange and tangerine. Foamy and coarse on the palate, with a sour-orange flavor, it finishes without much verve.	84	45	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
79,075	US	A bright golden color and generous, intricate aromas make this dry wine tempting even before sipping. Schramsberg says it has the least residual sugar of any wine they've made in 50 years. It offers light citrus, ginger and honey aromas, then a soft mouthfilling mousse and tangy lemon-lime flavors. Concentrated but steely and nicely bone-dry in texture, the wine will be fantastic with caviar.	94	75	California	Sparkling Blend
120,752	France	The Côtes d'Auxerre, west of Chablis, is the last outpost of Chardonnay in Burgundy. That results in this cool style of wine, light and fruity with apple and green-plum fruitiness. There is a zest to the wine, a lightly mineral texture and attractive final acidity. Drink now.	86	19	Burgundy	Chardonnay
80,180	Portugal	This is Vallado's entry-level wine, full of open, easy, expressive fruit. Yet, it also shows the natural structure and texture that comes from schist soil. Its tannins remain in the background, with black currant fruit and acidity in the fore. Drink now.	88	23	Douro	Portuguese Red
125,770	US	There is little difference between this and the winery's reserve. There simply is no flavor here. It's a watery, sour wine, with a finish that suggests something went wrong somewhere along the line.	81	10	Oregon	Chardonnay
88,722	Italy	Here's a blend of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia Istriana that shows easy fruit tones of stone fruit and melon backed by a waxy, slightly chewy feel in the mouth.	86	19	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
117,666	Argentina	Fully oaked, and you can tell via the aromas of coconut, resin, vanilla and latex that sit on top of tobacco and floral berry scents. Feels tight and high in acid, with herbal-leaning red berry flavors. Fresh and basic on the finish, with lasting acidity.	87	25	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Sauvignon
116,981	US	Brick red in color, this is a clear, clean expression of tar and ripe red cherry and raspberry fruit that's medium bodied and layered, popping at the finish with a spectacularly intense imprint of oak.	86	30	California	Pinot Noir
73,444	France	Lightly tannic and packed with raspberry flavors, this delicious wine has just the right balance between the ripe fruits and bright acidity. The wine is totally ready to drink.	89	10	Bordeaux	Rosé
19,721	France	There are dark tannins here, although they are embedded in the ripe black fruits. This wine is solid and firm, the acidity giving the essential freshness. The fruitiness and the plush texture are taking their time to show. Drink from 2020.	92	100	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
111,665	Italy	Aromas of Mediterranean herb, balsam, eucalyptus and dark berry lead the nose. The firm, elegant palate delivers juicy black cherry, dried blackberry, black pepper, clove, thyme, orange peel and anisette alongside youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins. Let this wine develop. Drink 2017–2022.	92	40	Tuscany	Sangiovese
88,218	US	Made in the sweet, simple way, with pineapple and orange jam fruit, buttered popcorn and vanilla flavors. However, the price isn't bad, and it will appeal to a lot of your friends at parties for its California richness.	84	10	California	Chardonnay
78,294	France	Subtle notes of earth mix with summer blossom, along with hints of honey, quince and zesty, fresh lemon peel. These aromas dance and take turns on the dry, balanced palate that shines both with rich fruit and slender tone. Lemony freshness pervades everything with its brightness. This is lovely now but will be even lovelier over the years. Drink 2016–2030.	95	46	Alsace	Riesling
70,824	US	Brambly berry fruit is dotted with highlights of black pepper and tart tangy herbs. The acids are way out in front of the fruit, delivering a citrusy, lightly toasty kick to the finish.	89	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
127,293	US	This Pinot is lovely for two reasons. One, it exhibits the tremendous balance and richness of a well-grown Santa Rita Hills Pinot. Secondly, the superb 2012 vintage makes it especially noteworthy. The raspberry and cherry fruit is ripe and fruity, and yet the finish is absolutely dry and complex. So good now, it's hard to recommend cellaring it, but you should, for up to eight years. A new brand from Margerum.	92	87	California	Pinot Noir
19,158	France	Fonréaud's vineyard is on the highest point in the Médoc (all of 120 feet), at the southern end of the Listrac appellation. This wine, as often with this property, has started out rugged and solid with firm dry tannins. The fruit though is all there and will show with increasing intensity over the next few years. Drink this powerful wine from 2018.	90	35	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
84,949	US	With this wine that comes from the cool 2010 vintage, you have to strain to hear the notes of cranberry, herbs and orange peel. The style is light, almost faint though remaining well executed.	86	28	Oregon	Pinot Noir
64,811	France	A medium-sweet, spicy wine that offers good fresh guava flavor to balance the ripe texture. The finish is fresh. Screw cap.	85	19	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
12,582	US	Crisp apple and pear aromas take a richer, riper turn towards melon and peach on the palate of this medium-sweet Riesling. Its juicy, fruity demeanor is straightforward and lush, but a punchy strike of lemon-lime acidity livens up the finish. Drink now.	87	14	New York	Riesling
118,574	Italy	Aromas of baked plum are joined by earthy whiffs of truffle, leather, game and cured meat. The aromas carry over to the ripe, dense palate along with fleshy black cherry, anise, mocha and mint. Velvety tannins provide the framework while a confectionary note backs up the finish. Drink 2017–2022.	90	45	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
4,359	France	With signs of its wood aging that are balanced with firm tannins and concentrated black fruits, this is a solid wine, packed with tannins. There is a touch of dark chocolate as well as the ripe fruit. It is a fine wine, ready to drink from 2020.	90	30	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
111,433	US	Simple and dry, this Cabernet has modest blackberry, tea and oak flavors. With its firm tannins, it gets the basic Cabernet job done.	83	12	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
37,769	US	Dry and crisp, this Chard has flavors of green apples, peaches, yellow apricots and vanilla cream, with little if any oak influence. Acidity perks it up, making the wine clean and vibrant.	86	18	California	Chardonnay
2,870	Italy	Candied fruit, caramel, smooth vanilla cream and apricot open the opulent bouquet of this beautifully made Riserva Chardonnay. Elena Walch produces one of the best, oak-aged expressions of the grape in Italy. It closes with creamy richness and persistence.	91	37	Northeastern Italy	Chardonnay
49,051	France	Very fruity, very juicy, this wine is all about crisp, fresh fruitiness, starting with hand-picked biodynamic vineyard plots and gravity-flow into the winery. Red currants dominate, with considerable acidity right at the fore. At the back, the tannins are developing, but fruit will be the hallmark for the long future. Owner Thierry Valette's family also owns Château Troplong-Mondot in Saint-Émilion.	87	34	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
80,958	France	Salmon-pink in color, this is a soft wine. With a relatively high dosage, it is full of red fruits and ripe apples. The acidity and the richness of the wine are well balanced, making it ready to drink.	86	45	Champagne	Champagne Blend
20,383	France	This wine is medium sweet in style with a rich, complex character. It has notes of spice and honey that accent ripe peach and apricot flavors. The richness of the wine comes from it's dense texture. It is ready to drink now, but will also age well.	93	30	Alsace	Pinot Gris
39,774	US	Jammy, candied raspberry and cherry fruit marks this simple but pleasurable wine. With a soft mouthfeel and an oaky finish, it's ready to drink now.	84	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
20,076	France	Rich, deliciously fruity and ripe, this combines warmth with a more mineral undertow that cuts through the palate, creating a wine that is refreshing and mouth-filling. It would be worth aging for two years or more.	87	20	Burgundy	Chardonnay
45,297	US	The blend includes old vine (1972 planting) Cabernet from Sagemoor, along with some Klipsun fruit and Seven Hills Merlot. This shows solid winemaking, excellent varietal character, and the structure to age gracefully. The tight cassis fruit is delineated with details of tarragon, rosemary and thyme.	91	30	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
85,509	Italy	This Amarone has ripe blackberry aromas, with hints of raisin and spice. The palate shows black cherry, black pepper and prune notes. It has tight tannins and fresh acidity, but needs time to unwind and develop; drink after 2016.	90	50	Veneto	Red Blend
61,088	US	Elegant, aromatic, and expressive in the nose, this blossoms into a pleasing mix of berries, cherries, bark, spice and sassafras. Good acidity, with a lick of chocolate in the tannins and the finish. Though very light for Syrah, this has good balance and length.	88	32	Washington	Syrah
100,358	US	Husch is one of the original Anderson Valley wineries and has not been a particular Pinot Noir star, but this fantastic 2014 may start a trend. Fresh and alive, the wine is medium bodied but packs lots of tangy cherry and almost jammy plum flavors into a smooth but lightly tannic texture that provides great structure. Simply delicious, it's balanced well enough to enjoy time after time.	92	25	California	Pinot Noir
72,926	US	This wine is both refined and robust, from a three-acre block replanted in 2007. It is aged in older French barrels, with the fruit sultry in cherry and black tea, the tension of the acidity hard to shake which contributes to its overall softness and complex intensity.	91	85	California	Pinot Noir
61,824	Germany	Even Grünhäuser's entry-level trocken is impressive in 2010, combining ample petrol-like notes with a pronounced streak of lime sherbet. It's medium bodied and slightly creamy on the midpalate, yet sharply focused on the finish.	89	26	Mosel	Riesling
77,852	US	This is Bordeaux-style blend is quite leathery, both on the nose and palate, with red fruit flavors that quickly vanish into a horsey, bitter finish. Your individual sensitivity to such flavors will determine how much you enjoy this wine.	85	30	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
84,916	US	As thick as a milkshake, this rich, fruity concoction tastes like blackberry jam and chocolate, is semisweet and has a mouth-coating texture and tongue-staining deep purple color. Although moderately alcoholic, its viscosity is impressive.	86	20	California	Red Blend
47,103	US	This light-bodied wine has a pale pink Provençal color but quite a bit of fruit flavor. It feels soft on the palate and tastes lightly sweet.	85	12	California	Rosé
41,319	Italy	Fun and fresh, this informal white offers whiffs of white flower and pear. The straightforward palate presents notes of apple and peach alongside lively acidity. It's not complex, but it is well made.	85	11	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
78,566	France	This wine is crisp, full of red apple and green-plum flavors, with a touch of minerality in the tangy texture. From chalky soil, it is tight and bright with lively acidity. Drink now.	87	18	Burgundy	Chardonnay
24,536	US	This wine does not display the Riesling sweetness scale that's found on most Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Rieslings. This is off dry, and it has punchy peach, pear and apple flavors.	86	8	Washington	Riesling
111,364	Italy	A dense and extracted expression of Barbera, with concentrated black fruit and citrusy sensations as well as a funky undercurrents of animal and smoke.	85	28	Piedmont	Barbera
86,351	Portugal	This is the entry-level wine at Vallado, one of the Douro's top quintas. Full of berry fruits, it also has layers of tannins and acidity, but is rich and soft enough now not to need much aging. Although it could be drunk now, it will be better from 2016.	89	23	Douro	Portuguese Red
85,230	US	A polished, pretty Syrah. It's black in color and very soft, and tastes like a blackberry- and blueberry-infused chocolate drink, with hints of bacon. Luscious and ready to drink now.	88	22	California	Syrah
65,519	Italy	Always one of the best quality-for-value wines in Italy, this classic Barbaresco delivers quintessential Nebbiolo sensations of rose, black cherry, red berry, cinnamon and a hint of leather. It's friendly, with firm, round tannins and just enough fresh acidity. Drink now–2020.	90	35	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
79,110	Spain	Jammy, creamy and superripe, with raspberry, burnt toast and coffee on the thick, meaty nose. Flavors reminiscent of an ice cream sundae work the palate, which means berry syrup, chocolate sauce and vanilla are highly prominent. Texturally speaking, this is a smooth, soft and plush wine. It pushes the envelope on ripeness, but that's become the Cirsion way. An awesome wine that deserves a proper decanting.	96	303	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
102,123	US	This wine is concentrated, richly textured and full of great dark fruit character. It smells like plump blackberries and raspberries, tastes ripe, lush in the mouth, and lingering on the finish. What's more, it has very good balance, full body and well-integrated tannins.	91	24	California	Barbera
107,813	US	Building on the almost century of Riboli family winemaking, this wine shows honeysuckle, cracked caramel brittle and seared lemons on the approachable, familiar nose. Good tension marks the palate, with lemon butter and ripe Golden Delicious apple warmth cut by a pithy sharpness.	88	24	California	Chardonnay
49,373	US	Not a successful vintage for the winery's Sangiovese. The wine is a bit unripe, with flavors of green vegetable, cherry and white pepper.	83	28	California	Sangiovese
122,986	US	A Petite Sirah abundant in black pepper and cinnamon spice, structured, ripe and leathery. The tannins show promise for aging 5–7 years, the wine's black fruit waiting to burst forth.	86	49	California	Petite Sirah
119,349	US	Along with the Lonesome Spring Ranch Sangiovese, the blend includes 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. It's still pulling itself together and needs some airing out, but shows accents of rose water along with strawberry-flavored fruit. The tannins are astringent and the acids tart and citrusy.	87	20	Washington	Sangiovese
110,052	Italy	This soulful red opens with earthy aromas of black olive, leather, ripe berry and a whiff of game. The round, enveloping palate delivers fleshy black cherry, blackberry preserve, tobacco and clove alongside firm, velvety tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, it's already rather accessible but it also has some staying power. Open a couple of hours in advance to let this breathe.	92	95	Tuscany	Sangiovese
67,914	US	This wine is an extrovert, boasting powerful jammy and smoky aromas, very ripe blackberry and maple syrup flavors, a dry impression and a good, thick layer of tannin.	89	20	California	Red Blend
67,261	US	Coming from the cool 2011 vintage, the aromas of herbs, apple and spice are light. It's medium bodied and creamy in feel with a lemony finish.	86	22	Washington	Chardonnay
46,651	France	This wine is outrageously perfumed. That's all there is, apart from a dry edge that stops the wine from totally tipping over into decadence.	85	12	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
86,414	US	As candied as a granola health bar, this Zin has flavors of sugared blackberries, roasted almonds, caramel and chocolate. If you like your Zins a little sweet, it's for you.	85	25	California	Zinfandel
60,889	US	Hawk and Horse have managed to make a delicious Cabernet from a challenging vintage. Dark, earthy flavors of cedar, spice and blackberry, are enriched with plenty of smoothness and structure to give it that extra something special. Made by winemakers Dick Peterson and Scott Harvey from a certified-Biodynamic vineyard with rocky red soil at 2,200 feet above sea level.	89	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
2,326	US	Light aromas of passion fruit and grapefruit are followed by tropical flavors that linger. It's an easy drinking quaffer.	85	10	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
39,802	US	Made in a light, pleasant style, and the drily tannic balance makes it food-friendly. Shows cherry, red currant, cola and oak flavors, with an earthy edge of herbs.	87	28	California	Merlot
62,543	Italy	Stewed prune, blue flower, Asian spice and a whiff of oak come together on this. The dense palate offers raisin, blackberry extract, tobacco, vanilla and licorice alongside firm fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017 through 2024.	90	75	Veneto	Red Blend
111,022	US	A beautiful Chardonnay, notable for its elegant structure. Perfect acidity and just a hint of tannins, much of it from oak barrels, provide the framework for the pineapple and kiwi fruit flavors, enriched with notes of cream and buttered toast.	93	40	California	Chardonnay
60,163	US	With very ripe pineapple and pear flavors, this Chard also has a taste like cheddar cheese-dusted buttered popcorn. Crisp acidity helps to provide balance.	84	18	California	Chardonnay
92,482	France	The wine comes from a small, seven-acre property. This 2010 is structured with a mineral character and chewy tannins. It is well balanced; the blackberry fruit synchronizes well with the dry texture and fresh acidity. Age for 4–5 years.	90	55	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
94,774	US	Lilac and violet hang with blackberries, black plums and sweet mocha on this purple chiffon-cake scented wine from winemaker Ryan Pease. The blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 12% Syrah and and 3% Counoise is full and silky on the palate, with olallieberry fruits, proving juicy but not jammy or overpowering.	93	48	California	Rhône-style Red Blend

38,088

US

This is a Bordeaux-style blend, 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc and Merlot filling it out. All the fruit comes from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard. The initial aromas are dominated with sweet, toasty, pretty new French oak, with the irresistible flavors of mocha following. As good as it is, the fruit seems light and submerged, with little depth. This is a wine to enjoy in its youth.

89

43

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

8,742

US

A thin wisp of smoke lends complexity to a bouquet full of sunny peaches and apricots on this perfumed Riesling. Off-dry in style, sweet pink-grapefruit flavor quenches the palate. It's dancingly light in body yet surprisingly powerful in concentration.

89

14

New York

Riesling

21,876

US

This is a big, gutsy Syrah. It's strong and astringent in tannins and potent in ripe, fruity blackberries and plums, with a spicy edge of smoked bacon. The overall balance testifies to a pedigreed address and superior grapegrowing. As savory as it is, it's not really ready for drinking. Hold for up to six years.

92

40

California

Syrah

82,886

France

Full, creamy and soft, this is a rich Champagne, very much a food wine. It has great ripe swathes of peach and pineapple flavors, rounded by toast. While 2000 is not a vintage for aging, this opulent Champagne may be the exception.

95

150

Champagne

Champagne Blend

35,508

US

Earth, mint and blackberry flavors make this full-bodied and firmly-tannic wine both flavorful and eccentric. As the wine sits in the glass for several minutes the aroma become like beef bouillon and the texture on the palate is a bit astringent.

82

35

California

Merlot

14,567

US

Tart and tightly wound fruit flavors range from watermelon to strawberry, with a heavy infusion of citrus. It's sharply acidic, with some suggestions of toast from light barrel aging. A streak of cola runs through the finish.

89

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

125,057

US

The previous vintage of this sweet Pinot Gris was finished at 30 g/L residual sugar; this drops it down to half that. It's a sugary, spritzy wine that has not quite jelled the way the 2012 did, though time may help to pull it together. Right now it's just simple and sweet.

86

19

Washington

Pinot Gris

90,348

France

Initially earthy aromas give way to red fruits. The wine follows the same pattern, the barnyard flavors opening out with the ripe red plum and strawberry fruits. There is a delicious richness here, balanced with acidity and firm tannins.

92

95

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

38,417

US

This wine has deeply concentrated yet focused and spicy purple-fruit tones. It's generously endowed with notes of tobacco, licorice, mineral and pepper. The highlights keep piling on through a finish that seems to run for several minutes. This bold wine is enjoyable now but should also cellar well through 2020.

94

59

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

123,130

Australia

The Ratbag makes for a pleasant, if somewhat generic dry red. Dried fruit and prune notes are complemented by chocolate overtones and the mouthfeel is soft and user-friendly.

84

18

South Australia

Merlot

104,135

US

Like a fruit juice drink, with sugary pineapple, mango and orange flavors. The acidity is bright, but this Chardonnay is more like a dessert wine than a dry table wine.

84

18

California

Chardonnay

30,612

US

Grenache's essential fruity character is well-preserved thanks to the use of a whole berry press. Popcorn pink in color, it offers sweetly peachy flavors adorned by wild strawberry and tangerine. The wine light and minerally.

88

24

California

Grenache

97,793

US

One of the first 2014s available, this obscure yet successful blend of 71% Grenache Blanc and 29% Albariño invites the nose with vanilla-laced apple custard, orange blossom and baking soda aromas. It's bright on the tight and pithy palate, with bouncy apple cider flavors as well as poached pear and kaffir lime.

88

25

California

White Blend

21,018

US

Light peach and ale notes mark the nose of this wine. The palate is dry, and the flavors somewhat flat, making it hard to ascertain the variety.

84

16

Washington

Pinot Gris

62,885

US

The black pepper and cocoa flavors that always mark this fine vineyard show up again in this dry, tannic wine. So do the blackberries and cassis that make it so sweetly fruity. The acidity is awkward, though, and tastes like it was added to balance out a high alcohol wine.

86

36

California

Syrah

99,106

US

Ripe, strawberry/raspberry preserves, with a pleasing, jammy, fruity, luscious richness. Ten percent Petite Sirah adds color and punch. There's a fair amount of tannin, but overall a nice balance, and the plush fruit is the highlight.

89

19

California

Zinfandel

72,877

US

This bold, densely flavored and impressively tannic wine is dry, very well structured and will be interesting to age until 2018–2019. It smells darkly fruity, smoky and spicy, and tastes like cranberry and black cherry, finishing with a firm tang of tannin. It will be best after 2018.

91

30

California

Red Blend

101,318

Italy

From one of Barbaresco's most celebrated vineyard crus, this ruby-colored wine exhibits loads of intensity and power in the form of cherry, cassis, leather, tar and cola. The wine's compact, tonic mouthfeel would make a great companion to rich, sophisticated cuisine.

89

54

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

123,616

Spain

Smoky, charred aromas of maple, blackened spices and baked berry fruits set up a woody, fully oaked palate with good texture and weight. This features a blast of hickory flavor on top of berry and plum fruit, while the finish is grabby and tannic.

89

23

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

28,153

US

A beautiful Cabernet that shows the promise of this Lake County appellation. Coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. It's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.

90

28

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

126,383

US

With its dryness and firm tannins, there's lots of structural integrity in this Cab. New oak adds the right suggestions of toast and wood spices. It's an elegantly streamlined wine whose nuanced berry, cherry and currant flavors won't overwhelm a beautiful cut of beef.

91

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

17,172

US

This is a superb Cab at this price and case production level, tasting like one much smaller in production. With hearty tannins, it offers nuanced cranberry fruit and notable acidity, full body and a finish combining black olive and tobacco. Ready to enjoy now, it'll be just as good 2017–2019.

89

20

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

111,807

US

A dry, tannic Zinfandel from Amador, fairly large production at 14,000 cases a year, with enough blueberry, sweet black olive and spice on the finish to make the whole package a nicely made bottling from a Sierra Foothills Zin specialist.

86

18

California

Zinfandel

32,993

US

This wine is ripe and lush in style, but hints of tart lemons and limes add brightness and an acidic edge. The finish is a tad candied.

85

25

California

Sauvignon Blanc

98,041

Italy

Stewed black fruit, prune, raisin, espresso and exotic spice aromas lead the nose on this blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. The densely concentrated palate is dominated by toasted oak, grilled bell peppers and notes of black plum, all sweetened up with coffee, dark chocolate and sugary vanilla extract. It closes on a note of bitter wood tannins.

87

97

Tuscany

Red Blend

29,702

US

Steely and polished, this dry, intensely mineral Riesling calibrates savory apple and pear flavors against tart lemon, tangerine and pineapple acidity. The moderately long finish reverberates with a zesty bite of bitter lime skin.

88

20

New York

Riesling

122,119

US

A tower of tannin shapes this deep-colored and ripely fruity wine into an awesome drink. Layers of fine tannins pile up to make a firm, thick texture that supports lots of deep berry flavors and cleans the palate as you sip. It will make a good match with grilled and roasted beef, lamb or game.

91

11

California

Petite Sirah

748

US

The sweet scent of raspberry and strawberry preserves waft from this Cab Franc icewine from Casa Larga. On the palate as well, there's a nice concentration of preserved berry flavors that soar on the palate with a bright, sunny acidity. Finishes clean and long with just a hint of autumn leaves and bramble.

87

75

New York

Cabernet Franc

60,119

US

This is a smooth and gently fruity wine. Aromas are subtle, fresh and slightly floral, while the more-forward flavors resemble peaches and honeydew melons. The texture is smooth rather than tart, and the wine may have a touch of residual sugar to keep it tasting fruity and feeling rounded.

87

18

California

Riesling

73,881

France

Offers an intriguing nose with ginger, lime and floral elements. The mouthfeel is ephemeral—almost too light—but there’s a good case to be made for this style when bubbles are involved. Green apple, an almost lilac note, and lime on the palate. Finishes nicely, too.

91

27

Champagne

Champagne Blend

108,373

France

Across the river Dordogne from Castillon, the vineyard of Lajarre is on the first slope. This soft and ripe wine has black currant fruitiness, fresh acidity and a judicious use of wood aging. It still shows the structure of 2010, so will be better from 2015.

86

35

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

74,915

US

Clean and fresh, this juicy wine carries a bit of fruit sweetness, but the flavors are tilted toward minerality rather than fruitiness. It's wonderfully refreshing, with a mix of citrus rind, melon and white peach working into an extended, palate-cleansing finish.

90

10

Washington

Riesling

46,249

US

Heavy tannins, which accentuate the acids, lock this wine down now, making it astringently dry and tart. Underneath all that are deep, earthy flavors of blackberries, coffee and pepper. Doesn't seem to be ageworthy, so drink up.

86

32

California

Petite Sirah

100,406

Italy

Here's a gorgeous Riserva expression of Pinot Grigio with a creamy, dense mouthfeel and prominent aromas of peach cream, apricot, almond paste and honey. Those yellow fruit flavors last long on the palate and would pair with shellfish or white meat. Very nice.

91

30

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

70,241

US

Grenadine and flavors of red cherry provide a brightness to this wine that is otherwise characterized by juicy texture and mild-mannered use of oak. Enjoyable and soft, it's priced well and is worth stocking up on for everyday meals.

88

10

California

Merlot

44,367

France

Grown on gravel terraces that rise up from the Loire, this wine is both structuredand fruity. Fresh juicy black currant flavors bring acidity along with them, leaving a light tannic structure at the end. Drink now.

87

15

Loire Valley

Cabernet Franc

20,133

Spain

Made from Pinot Noir, this is an orange-tan color and offers dried, oxidized aromas of orange and tangerine. Foamy and coarse on the palate, with a sour-orange flavor, it finishes without much verve.

84

45

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

79,075

US

A bright golden color and generous, intricate aromas make this dry wine tempting even before sipping. Schramsberg says it has the least residual sugar of any wine they've made in 50 years. It offers light citrus, ginger and honey aromas, then a soft mouthfilling mousse and tangy lemon-lime flavors. Concentrated but steely and nicely bone-dry in texture, the wine will be fantastic with caviar.

94

75

California

Sparkling Blend

120,752

France

The Côtes d'Auxerre, west of Chablis, is the last outpost of Chardonnay in Burgundy. That results in this cool style of wine, light and fruity with apple and green-plum fruitiness. There is a zest to the wine, a lightly mineral texture and attractive final acidity. Drink now.

86

19

Burgundy

Chardonnay

80,180

Portugal

This is Vallado's entry-level wine, full of open, easy, expressive fruit. Yet, it also shows the natural structure and texture that comes from schist soil. Its tannins remain in the background, with black currant fruit and acidity in the fore. Drink now.

88

23

Douro

Portuguese Red

125,770

US

There is little difference between this and the winery's reserve. There simply is no flavor here. It's a watery, sour wine, with a finish that suggests something went wrong somewhere along the line.

81

10

Oregon

Chardonnay

88,722

Italy

Here's a blend of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia Istriana that shows easy fruit tones of stone fruit and melon backed by a waxy, slightly chewy feel in the mouth.

86

19

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

117,666

Argentina

Fully oaked, and you can tell via the aromas of coconut, resin, vanilla and latex that sit on top of tobacco and floral berry scents. Feels tight and high in acid, with herbal-leaning red berry flavors. Fresh and basic on the finish, with lasting acidity.

87

25

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Sauvignon

116,981

US

Brick red in color, this is a clear, clean expression of tar and ripe red cherry and raspberry fruit that's medium bodied and layered, popping at the finish with a spectacularly intense imprint of oak.

86

30

California

Pinot Noir

73,444

France

Lightly tannic and packed with raspberry flavors, this delicious wine has just the right balance between the ripe fruits and bright acidity. The wine is totally ready to drink.

89

10

Bordeaux

Rosé

19,721

France

There are dark tannins here, although they are embedded in the ripe black fruits. This wine is solid and firm, the acidity giving the essential freshness. The fruitiness and the plush texture are taking their time to show. Drink from 2020.

92

100

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

111,665

Italy

Aromas of Mediterranean herb, balsam, eucalyptus and dark berry lead the nose. The firm, elegant palate delivers juicy black cherry, dried blackberry, black pepper, clove, thyme, orange peel and anisette alongside youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins. Let this wine develop. Drink 2017–2022.

92

40

Tuscany

Sangiovese

88,218

US

Made in the sweet, simple way, with pineapple and orange jam fruit, buttered popcorn and vanilla flavors. However, the price isn't bad, and it will appeal to a lot of your friends at parties for its California richness.

84

10

California

Chardonnay

78,294

France

Subtle notes of earth mix with summer blossom, along with hints of honey, quince and zesty, fresh lemon peel. These aromas dance and take turns on the dry, balanced palate that shines both with rich fruit and slender tone. Lemony freshness pervades everything with its brightness. This is lovely now but will be even lovelier over the years. Drink 2016–2030.

95

46

Alsace

Riesling

70,824

US

Brambly berry fruit is dotted with highlights of black pepper and tart tangy herbs. The acids are way out in front of the fruit, delivering a citrusy, lightly toasty kick to the finish.

89

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

127,293

US

This Pinot is lovely for two reasons. One, it exhibits the tremendous balance and richness of a well-grown Santa Rita Hills Pinot. Secondly, the superb 2012 vintage makes it especially noteworthy. The raspberry and cherry fruit is ripe and fruity, and yet the finish is absolutely dry and complex. So good now, it's hard to recommend cellaring it, but you should, for up to eight years. A new brand from Margerum.

92

87

California

Pinot Noir

19,158

France

Fonréaud's vineyard is on the highest point in the Médoc (all of 120 feet), at the southern end of the Listrac appellation. This wine, as often with this property, has started out rugged and solid with firm dry tannins. The fruit though is all there and will show with increasing intensity over the next few years. Drink this powerful wine from 2018.

90

35

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

84,949

US

With this wine that comes from the cool 2010 vintage, you have to strain to hear the notes of cranberry, herbs and orange peel. The style is light, almost faint though remaining well executed.

86

28

Oregon

Pinot Noir

64,811

France

A medium-sweet, spicy wine that offers good fresh guava flavor to balance the ripe texture. The finish is fresh. Screw cap.

85

19

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

12,582

US

Crisp apple and pear aromas take a richer, riper turn towards melon and peach on the palate of this medium-sweet Riesling. Its juicy, fruity demeanor is straightforward and lush, but a punchy strike of lemon-lime acidity livens up the finish. Drink now.

87

14

New York

Riesling

118,574

Italy

Aromas of baked plum are joined by earthy whiffs of truffle, leather, game and cured meat. The aromas carry over to the ripe, dense palate along with fleshy black cherry, anise, mocha and mint. Velvety tannins provide the framework while a confectionary note backs up the finish. Drink 2017–2022.

90

45

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

4,359

France

With signs of its wood aging that are balanced with firm tannins and concentrated black fruits, this is a solid wine, packed with tannins. There is a touch of dark chocolate as well as the ripe fruit. It is a fine wine, ready to drink from 2020.

90

30

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

111,433

US

Simple and dry, this Cabernet has modest blackberry, tea and oak flavors. With its firm tannins, it gets the basic Cabernet job done.

83

12

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

37,769

US

Dry and crisp, this Chard has flavors of green apples, peaches, yellow apricots and vanilla cream, with little if any oak influence. Acidity perks it up, making the wine clean and vibrant.

86

18

California

Chardonnay

2,870

Italy

Candied fruit, caramel, smooth vanilla cream and apricot open the opulent bouquet of this beautifully made Riserva Chardonnay. Elena Walch produces one of the best, oak-aged expressions of the grape in Italy. It closes with creamy richness and persistence.

91

37

Northeastern Italy

Chardonnay

49,051

France

Very fruity, very juicy, this wine is all about crisp, fresh fruitiness, starting with hand-picked biodynamic vineyard plots and gravity-flow into the winery. Red currants dominate, with considerable acidity right at the fore. At the back, the tannins are developing, but fruit will be the hallmark for the long future. Owner Thierry Valette's family also owns Château Troplong-Mondot in Saint-Émilion.

87

34

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

80,958

France

Salmon-pink in color, this is a soft wine. With a relatively high dosage, it is full of red fruits and ripe apples. The acidity and the richness of the wine are well balanced, making it ready to drink.

86

45

Champagne

Champagne Blend

20,383

France

This wine is medium sweet in style with a rich, complex character. It has notes of spice and honey that accent ripe peach and apricot flavors. The richness of the wine comes from it's dense texture. It is ready to drink now, but will also age well.

93

30

Alsace

Pinot Gris

39,774

US

Jammy, candied raspberry and cherry fruit marks this simple but pleasurable wine. With a soft mouthfeel and an oaky finish, it's ready to drink now.

84

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

20,076

France

Rich, deliciously fruity and ripe, this combines warmth with a more mineral undertow that cuts through the palate, creating a wine that is refreshing and mouth-filling. It would be worth aging for two years or more.

87

20

Burgundy

Chardonnay

45,297

US

The blend includes old vine (1972 planting) Cabernet from Sagemoor, along with some Klipsun fruit and Seven Hills Merlot. This shows solid winemaking, excellent varietal character, and the structure to age gracefully. The tight cassis fruit is delineated with details of tarragon, rosemary and thyme.

91

30

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

85,509

Italy

This Amarone has ripe blackberry aromas, with hints of raisin and spice. The palate shows black cherry, black pepper and prune notes. It has tight tannins and fresh acidity, but needs time to unwind and develop; drink after 2016.

90

50

Veneto

Red Blend

61,088

US

Elegant, aromatic, and expressive in the nose, this blossoms into a pleasing mix of berries, cherries, bark, spice and sassafras. Good acidity, with a lick of chocolate in the tannins and the finish. Though very light for Syrah, this has good balance and length.

88

32

Washington

Syrah

100,358

US

Husch is one of the original Anderson Valley wineries and has not been a particular Pinot Noir star, but this fantastic 2014 may start a trend. Fresh and alive, the wine is medium bodied but packs lots of tangy cherry and almost jammy plum flavors into a smooth but lightly tannic texture that provides great structure. Simply delicious, it's balanced well enough to enjoy time after time.

92

25

California

Pinot Noir

72,926

US

This wine is both refined and robust, from a three-acre block replanted in 2007. It is aged in older French barrels, with the fruit sultry in cherry and black tea, the tension of the acidity hard to shake which contributes to its overall softness and complex intensity.

91

85

California

Pinot Noir

61,824

Germany

Even Grünhäuser's entry-level trocken is impressive in 2010, combining ample petrol-like notes with a pronounced streak of lime sherbet. It's medium bodied and slightly creamy on the midpalate, yet sharply focused on the finish.

89

26

Mosel

Riesling

77,852

US

This is Bordeaux-style blend is quite leathery, both on the nose and palate, with red fruit flavors that quickly vanish into a horsey, bitter finish. Your individual sensitivity to such flavors will determine how much you enjoy this wine.

85

30

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

84,916

US

As thick as a milkshake, this rich, fruity concoction tastes like blackberry jam and chocolate, is semisweet and has a mouth-coating texture and tongue-staining deep purple color. Although moderately alcoholic, its viscosity is impressive.

86

20

California

Red Blend

47,103

US

This light-bodied wine has a pale pink Provençal color but quite a bit of fruit flavor. It feels soft on the palate and tastes lightly sweet.

85

12

California

Rosé

41,319

Italy

Fun and fresh, this informal white offers whiffs of white flower and pear. The straightforward palate presents notes of apple and peach alongside lively acidity. It's not complex, but it is well made.

85

11

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

78,566

France

This wine is crisp, full of red apple and green-plum flavors, with a touch of minerality in the tangy texture. From chalky soil, it is tight and bright with lively acidity. Drink now.

87

18

Burgundy

Chardonnay

24,536

US

This wine does not display the Riesling sweetness scale that's found on most Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Rieslings. This is off dry, and it has punchy peach, pear and apple flavors.

86

8

Washington

Riesling

111,364

Italy

A dense and extracted expression of Barbera, with concentrated black fruit and citrusy sensations as well as a funky undercurrents of animal and smoke.

85

28

Piedmont

Barbera

86,351

Portugal

This is the entry-level wine at Vallado, one of the Douro's top quintas. Full of berry fruits, it also has layers of tannins and acidity, but is rich and soft enough now not to need much aging. Although it could be drunk now, it will be better from 2016.

89

23

Douro

Portuguese Red

85,230

US

A polished, pretty Syrah. It's black in color and very soft, and tastes like a blackberry- and blueberry-infused chocolate drink, with hints of bacon. Luscious and ready to drink now.

88

22

California

Syrah

65,519

Italy

Always one of the best quality-for-value wines in Italy, this classic Barbaresco delivers quintessential Nebbiolo sensations of rose, black cherry, red berry, cinnamon and a hint of leather. It's friendly, with firm, round tannins and just enough fresh acidity. Drink now–2020.

90

35

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

79,110

Spain

Jammy, creamy and superripe, with raspberry, burnt toast and coffee on the thick, meaty nose. Flavors reminiscent of an ice cream sundae work the palate, which means berry syrup, chocolate sauce and vanilla are highly prominent. Texturally speaking, this is a smooth, soft and plush wine. It pushes the envelope on ripeness, but that's become the Cirsion way. An awesome wine that deserves a proper decanting.

96

303

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

102,123

US

This wine is concentrated, richly textured and full of great dark fruit character. It smells like plump blackberries and raspberries, tastes ripe, lush in the mouth, and lingering on the finish. What's more, it has very good balance, full body and well-integrated tannins.

91

24

California

Barbera

107,813

US

Building on the almost century of Riboli family winemaking, this wine shows honeysuckle, cracked caramel brittle and seared lemons on the approachable, familiar nose. Good tension marks the palate, with lemon butter and ripe Golden Delicious apple warmth cut by a pithy sharpness.

88

24

California

Chardonnay

49,373

US

Not a successful vintage for the winery's Sangiovese. The wine is a bit unripe, with flavors of green vegetable, cherry and white pepper.

83

28

California

Sangiovese

122,986

US

A Petite Sirah abundant in black pepper and cinnamon spice, structured, ripe and leathery. The tannins show promise for aging 5–7 years, the wine's black fruit waiting to burst forth.

86

49

California

Petite Sirah

119,349

US

Along with the Lonesome Spring Ranch Sangiovese, the blend includes 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. It's still pulling itself together and needs some airing out, but shows accents of rose water along with strawberry-flavored fruit. The tannins are astringent and the acids tart and citrusy.

87

20

Washington

Sangiovese

110,052

Italy

This soulful red opens with earthy aromas of black olive, leather, ripe berry and a whiff of game. The round, enveloping palate delivers fleshy black cherry, blackberry preserve, tobacco and clove alongside firm, velvety tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, it's already rather accessible but it also has some staying power. Open a couple of hours in advance to let this breathe.

92

95

Tuscany

Sangiovese

67,914

US

This wine is an extrovert, boasting powerful jammy and smoky aromas, very ripe blackberry and maple syrup flavors, a dry impression and a good, thick layer of tannin.

89

20

California

Red Blend

67,261

US

Coming from the cool 2011 vintage, the aromas of herbs, apple and spice are light. It's medium bodied and creamy in feel with a lemony finish.

86

22

Washington

Chardonnay

46,651

France

This wine is outrageously perfumed. That's all there is, apart from a dry edge that stops the wine from totally tipping over into decadence.

85

12

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

86,414

US

As candied as a granola health bar, this Zin has flavors of sugared blackberries, roasted almonds, caramel and chocolate. If you like your Zins a little sweet, it's for you.

85

25

California

Zinfandel

60,889

US

Hawk and Horse have managed to make a delicious Cabernet from a challenging vintage. Dark, earthy flavors of cedar, spice and blackberry, are enriched with plenty of smoothness and structure to give it that extra something special. Made by winemakers Dick Peterson and Scott Harvey from a certified-Biodynamic vineyard with rocky red soil at 2,200 feet above sea level.

89

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

2,326

US

Light aromas of passion fruit and grapefruit are followed by tropical flavors that linger. It's an easy drinking quaffer.

85

10

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

39,802

US

Made in a light, pleasant style, and the drily tannic balance makes it food-friendly. Shows cherry, red currant, cola and oak flavors, with an earthy edge of herbs.

87

28

California

Merlot

62,543

Italy

Stewed prune, blue flower, Asian spice and a whiff of oak come together on this. The dense palate offers raisin, blackberry extract, tobacco, vanilla and licorice alongside firm fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017 through 2024.

90

75

Veneto

Red Blend

111,022

US

A beautiful Chardonnay, notable for its elegant structure. Perfect acidity and just a hint of tannins, much of it from oak barrels, provide the framework for the pineapple and kiwi fruit flavors, enriched with notes of cream and buttered toast.

93

40

California

Chardonnay

60,163

US

With very ripe pineapple and pear flavors, this Chard also has a taste like cheddar cheese-dusted buttered popcorn. Crisp acidity helps to provide balance.

84

18

California

Chardonnay

92,482

France

The wine comes from a small, seven-acre property. This 2010 is structured with a mineral character and chewy tannins. It is well balanced; the blackberry fruit synchronizes well with the dry texture and fresh acidity. Age for 4–5 years.

90

55

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

94,774

US

Lilac and violet hang with blackberries, black plums and sweet mocha on this purple chiffon-cake scented wine from winemaker Ryan Pease. The blend of 55% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 12% Syrah and and 3% Counoise is full and silky on the palate, with olallieberry fruits, proving juicy but not jammy or overpowering.

93

48

California

Rhône-style Red Blend