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
104,221	US	With a pale color and mouthwatering acidity, this delicately structured Pinot goes well beyond its immediate flavors of raspberry tea, pomegranates, persimmons, orange peel, exotic spices and oak to offer a Burgundian touch of earth and mushrooms. There's also a firm, stony minerality on the palate. This gorgeous Pinot was produced in tiny quantities of 300 cases and will drink well over the next six years.	94	36	California	Pinot Noir
38,062	US	This excellent and rich wine smells beautiful, and coats the mouth with velvety smoothness. The flavors range from green olives to tobacco and blackberries, with oaky complexities. The finish is dry, spicy and intense.	90	30	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
67,262	Italy	This is still surprisingly fresh considering the age of this wine. It's simple and enjoyable, with mouthwatering cherry flavors layered with mint and white pepper accents. Pair it with rich pasta dishes.	86	45	Veneto	Red Blend
8,876	US	Sourced largely from the Martin Stelling Vineyard behind the winery in the western shade of Oakville, this wine opens with charred oak and a smoky, meaty character that intrigues. Seamless on the palate in soft, perceptible tannin, it delves into characteristics of cedar and brushy sage as it goes, unveiling a wildness that's hard to contain. Its bright, fresh finish gives it a roundness that's ready to enjoy now.	95	155	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
104,443	Spain	This heavily oaked Ribera del Duero features maple, barrel char, dried cheese, licorice and boysenberry jam aromas. The palate is so concentrated it's syrupy, its blackened oak, crème de cassis and chocolate flavors feeling heavy on the finish. Drink this saturated bruiser through 2022.	91	67	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
105,864	US	Von Strasser has a good track record with this wine, and the '05 is right up there with the best, but be forewarned. It's very tannic. But then, it is from Diamond Mountain. Give it a good 4 years, at least, to throw some sediment and let the rich blackberry and black currant flavors emerge. Should hold well for 15 years.	92	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
14,054	US	This classic Champagne blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is dry and crisp with raspberry, orange and leesy flavors. It's quite a good brut, but slightly rough in texture. Drink up.	87	39	California	Sparkling Blend
37,686	Argentina	The nose has warm, jammy aromas that suggest horsehide and blackberry syrup. It feels chunky and full, with jammy, spicy, slightly herbal flavors of black fruits. On the finish, it turns more herbal and loses its structure.	84	8	Mendoza Province	Malbec
37,201	US	Coming from the winery's vineyard just outside the Lake Chelan appellation, this wine is moderately aromatic with notes of lime, pear, flowers and diesel. It drinks off dry, with abundant stone-fruit flavors that linger.	88	20	Washington	Riesling
41,915	Italy	Aromas of blue flowers and wild berry lead the nose on this medium-bodied red. The bright, savory palate offers black raspberry, Morello cherry, white pepper and anise. Vibrant acidity supports the juicy fruit flavors.	89	18	Piedmont	Barbera
54,558	US	A beautiful red wine for drinking now. It's dry and smooth, with that herbal edge you sometimes find in a Sonoma Cabernet. There's a polished, complex stream of dried red and black currants and cola, with a pleasant touch of smoky oak.	88	19	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
72,146	Italy	Aromas of iris, plum and woodland berry unfold in the glass. The savory palate is elegantly structured and displays juicy red cherry, red currant, anise seed and black pepper alongside supple tannins. Drink through 2018.	90	40	Tuscany	Red Blend
117,924	US	Though considered a rosé, Grenache Gris is actually its own grape, and a delicious one at that. Pale pink in color, this shows bubblegum, watermelon, rose petal, strawberry and cola spice on the nose. The palate is marked by boisterous, lemon-like acidity yet remains soft and welcoming, with sweet cotton candy touches.	92	28	California	Rosé
35,460	Argentina	Oaky, smoky aromas are New World all the way. Heavily toasted and creamy on the palate, this hefty full-bodied Chardonnay tastes of wood resin, spiced apple and peach. Solid acidity keep this in line, while a lasting wave of toasty oak pushes the finish.	90	46	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
19,226	US	Here's a good, everyday-style Merlot. It's dry and medium-bodied, with pleasant flavors of black cherries, black currants and oak, finished with a savory edge of tannins. Shows class beyond its price.	86	15	California	Merlot
125,833	Italy	There's always something magical about Gaja's Sorì San Lorenzo. It's the intensity and fullness of the wine that penetrates to the back of the palate and offers many long minutes of persistency on the finish. The bouquet is redolent of black fruit, leather, spice, tar, licorice and dried herb.	96	495	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
8,784	Spain	A dark tint and ripe aromas of blackberry, black plum and leather are appealing and inviting. This is weighty and full-bodied, with blackberry, boysenberry and cassis flavors. There's not a lot of nuance or complexity, but overall this is clean, tasty and generous.	89	11	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
28,753	US	This lovely wine has a great depth of decadent, succulent aromas of citrus and apple blossom, that explode around tangy acidity. Pear, quince and lemongrass-ginger spice dot the palate in measured, beautiful ways, finishing balanced and crisp.	91	45	California	Chardonnay
29,113	Italy	This offer aromas of plum jam, Oriental spice, underbrush and a whiff of blue flower. The lively, approachable palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, white pepper and clove alongside vibrant acidity.	89	20	Piedmont	Barbera
45,657	US	Soft and sweet in fruity extract and glycerols, and very high in alcohol, this Syrah is almost a dessert wine. There's no denying the flavors of blackberries, currants, sweet oak and chocolate are impressive, yet the wine needs greater dryness and structure.	86	60	California	Syrah
27,794	US	Ian Brand is a student of old vines, and it shows in this bottling from a century-old vineyard about 20 minutes south of San Jose. Rose petals, potpourri, dried strawberry and hibiscus-laced rooibos tea aromas transport one back to an old perfumery shop. Then the palate combines the woody tea spices with tart red berries, tarragon and dewy herbs. Fascinating stuff.	94	38	California	Grenache
13,460	Italy	Woodland berry, forest floor, crushed iris, chopped herb, star anise and menthol take shape in the glass. The juicy, generous palate doles out ripe black cherry, cranberry, licorice, baking spice and a dusting of cocoa while fine-grained tannins provide a velvety framework. Drink 2018–2024.	93	49	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
29,843	US	This clean if somewhat simple bottling starts with an extremely light and delicate nose of red cherry, rust, sagebrush, thyme and anise. The texture is light on the sip but the tannins prove somewhat grippy, with flavors of pomegranate and cracked pepper.	88	60	California	Pinot Noir
58,807	US	This mélange of mostly Viognier and Chardonnay also holds smaller percentages of Sauvignon Blanc, Symphony and Muscat. Incognito spent no time in oak. With a lively taste of orange blossom, it could almost be mistaken for Gewürztraminer because of its distinct mixture of floral and spice.	86	18	California	White Blend
89,798	US	Despite good vineyard sources, including DuBrul, Weinbau and Ciel du Cheval, this does not rise to the top ranks of Washington Cabernet Franc. The addition of 10% Sangiovese seems only to thin it out. It's astringent and herbal, with light cherry fruit.	85	25	Washington	Cabernet Franc
60,529	Spain	Gritty cassis aromas are oaky and challenging, which is what you can get when a wine spends more than three years in oak. In the mouth, this is wiry and rubbery. Foxy plum and cherry flavors finish clampy and herbal. Very good but with a few holes and pitfalls.	89	38	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
6,378	US	Slate, raspberry and black plum aromas mark the nose of this blend of 39% Grenache, 38% Syrah, 13% Mourvèdre and 10% Petite Sirah. Pronounced gravel-like minerality leads the palate, which frames cranberry fruit with grippy tannins.	87	32	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
115,907	Italy	Prunotto tends to exemplify a ripe, almost jammy style of Barolo with succulent cherry and smoked meat characteristics followed by vanilla, cinnamon, mineral, blackberry and licorice. The intensity is wonderful here but the wine still needs a few extra aging years in the bottle to relax those young tannins.	91	60	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
73,785	US	It's dry, with just-in-time acidity brightening pleasant raspberry, red currant and sandalwood flavors. As it warms in the glass, certain instabilities emerge. It's not an ager.	87	72	California	Pinot Noir
116,823	US	Crisp acidity buoys sharp red fruit in this delectable wine—a blend of multiple sites across the appellation. Medium build, it shows youthful tannins and oak that supports without intrusion, allowing the crunch of cranberry, strawberry and pomegranate to speak forcefully.	94	45	California	Pinot Noir
118,601	US	A nice, easy Pinot Noir, dry and crisp in acidity, light in color, silky in texture. Shows a good array of cherry, raspberry, cola and spice flavors.	86	22	California	Pinot Noir
82,712	France	Fresh citrus and tangy orange give this perfumed wine both fruitiness and a tight, mineral texture. It has enough structure to age; drink from 2018. This bottling is a blend of second-level white grapes from two Domaine Dillon properties: Château Haut-Brion and Château La Mission Haut-Brion, both in Pessac-Léognan.	93	107	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
111,170	Spain	Once again this is a stalwart modern-style Rioja with a mix of floral aromas, licorice, blackberry and coconut. The palate is both lively and subtle, and the flavor profile shows an impressive blend of cherry, plum, cream and cocoa, while the finish is long and smooth. A high-quality wine that should impress. Drink now through 2015.	93	62	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
13,459	US	Aromatic, chocolaty and deliciously smooth, the Sheridan vineyard bottling sends up sweet scents of ground coffee and chocolate. Compact fruit flavors of fig and black cherry run right into a bourbon barrel finish, with granular tannins that add welcome texture and a streak of graphite.	89	60	Washington	Red Blend
44,283	US	A new addition to the winery's portfolio, this wine is predominantly Sangiovese with some Syrah blended in. Bright aromas of wild strawberry and peach lead to crisp, dry, lightly spritzy fruit flavors that persist.	88	12	Washington	Rosé
77,257	US	This is the first white bottling from a new project by John Wagner, co-owner of John Sebastiano and Sierra Madre vineyards, and winemaker Paul Lato. Flint, dried limes, chives and a touch of smoked chicken show on the fresh nose. Light and clean on the sip, it's distinctive with flavors of buttered lemon slices, smoke and sweet onions.	93	40	California	Chardonnay
6,260	US	This is a heavy-duty Cabernet, big in every way, with rich black cherry and cassis fruit, and dense, dark tannins. The long, slightly grainy finish reinforces the impression of raw power, yet the wine retains perfect proportion and is nicely differentiated from the other 2010s crafted by winemaker Chris Figgins.	95	89	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
11,180	US	Dry and crisp, with peach and citrus flavors and a touch of oak, this wine benefitted from a cool growing season in usually hot Paso Robles. It has the acidity of a true coastal white wine.	84	19	California	Chardonnay
57,204	US	This blend of Pommard, Coury and Dijon 667 clones shows bright cherry fruit, bedecked with lovely spices. It's round and forward, with medium weight and depth.	90	65	Oregon	Pinot Noir
98,864	US	This dry, silky Pinot Noir is a good introduction to the variety, for those who want to learn more about it without paying a premium price. It shows proper cherry, raspberry and cola flavors, with a spicy finish.	86	14	California	Pinot Noir
110,644	Italy	A blend of grapes including traditional Corvina and Rondinella undergoes air-drying for extra-rich concentration and intensity. That, with careful oak aging, has shaped a richly textured, dense wine that would pair with game meat or bean soup with smoked bacon. It shows raw, slightly chewy tannins on the close.	88	20	Veneto	Red Blend
109,027	US	A pretty nose, plummy and rich, with a nice toasty, roasted finish. Elegant and medium bodied, in a ripe year like this the fruit gets past all unripe flavors and into some nice, slightly leafy, pretty fruit with hints of cherry tobacco.	87	22	Oregon	Merlot
64,818	US	A little sharp in acidity, and the white pepper spice adds to the impression of zippiness in this bone-dry Zin. It's deep and likeable in raspberry, cherry, blackberry and sandalwood flavors.	85	10	California	Zinfandel
83,629	US	Charred beef tips, grilled whole fish, wet dirt and heavy tar combine for a pungent, serious nose on this Syrah from a vineyard planted by Central Coast pioneer Dale Hampton. It's elegant and soft on the palate, opening up with boysenberry and sage, and possesses ample tannins for aging. Hang on until 2018.	90	35	California	Syrah
89,867	France	Old vines planted in the 1950s by a neighbor named Ovide form this complex wine. Aged for eight months on lees, it is a concentrated wine, tight with acidity and with nutty flavors that add complexity and give the wine depth. This beautiful wine needs to age. Drink from 2018.	93	25	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
45,765	US	Thin going here, with citrusy flavors and big, fresh Monterey acids. Seems to have some oak in it. Finishes dry and tart.	83	11	California	Chardonnay
44,690	US	The future of Finger Lakes Sauvingnon Blanc is bright, at least in the hands of Steve Shaw. Fragrant with sweet, ripe gooseberries, apples and a touch of herbs and grass, this is a delicious choice for any occasion. Full bodied and complex, its palate is lush with quince and green plums, highlighted by a refreshing minerality and a lime zest astringency.	89	16	New York	Sauvignon Blanc
18,912	Italy	Aged in large oak barrels, this opens with aromas suggesting toast, espresso and baking spice. The firm, concentrated palate offers tart cherry, licorice and ground clove alongside a backbone of bracing tannins.	89	79	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
13,473	US	Ripe and plump blackberries shine through in a showcase of fruit purity, lifted by dried fennel, hot black gravel, peppercorns, toasted sesame and soy. There is tremendous structure and acidity on the sip, with black pepper and black-sesame nuance plus juicy boysenberry character to the midpalate.	93	28	California	Syrah
125,211	Spain	Wiry and abrasive on the nose, this smells a lot like licorice and white gumdrops. In the mouth, this feels clipped and slightly artificial. Flavors of plastic, vanilla, chocolate and cherry come mostly from sketchy oak, while the finish is somewhat hot, with a plastic-like oak flavor.	85	13	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
118,229	US	Succulent, juicy fruit flavors combine lemon drop and butterscotch hard candy, buttressed with vivid acidity. This irresistible wine is drinking beautifully already.	91	18	Oregon	Chardonnay
116,623	US	Sadly, this is the last vintage for this single-vineyard Pinot Gris. Oaky, spicy, buttery and rich, its mouthfilling flavors conjure up thoughts of that fabulous baked pear brioche you had at that little bakery in Paris. It's ripe, fleshy and deliciously buttery, and it should be consumed right now.	92	45	Oregon	Pinot Gris
100,646	US	Carefully distinguished from the other Lange Pinots, this cuvée marries thick cherry fruit to highlights of cola, anise and earth. The winery's defining trait is crafting wines with impeccable balance, that are already seamless and highly approachable upon release, yet have the style and substance for cellaring over the next 8–10 years.	92	70	Oregon	Pinot Noir
64,783	US	Smoothly textured, this wine is thick and generously layered in flavors of blackberry coffee cake and coffee bean, the two combining nicely into one. Grippy on the finish, it's full bodied and brawny, as well as dusty in old-vine character.	87	28	California	Zinfandel
674	US	From a knoll in Carneros, oft thought of as chilly for Cabernet, this wine exhibits cooler aspects of the variety, from pencil lead and cedar to dried herb. It is complemented by fruitier characteristics of cassis and plum, finishing in dusty, structured tannins. Cellar through 2017–2020.	90	38	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
79,148	US	Reticent aromas of dried blue fruit and spice lead to full-feeling fruit flavors. The tannins bring some astringency.	85	12	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
9,678	US	Waxy apple stars in this brisk, approachable white from a single estate-farmed block, the oak briny and salty in toast and honey. Textured and elegantly light bodied, it finishes with a satisfying note of lemon candy.	90	30	California	Chardonnay
6,935	US	Gavin Chanin's take on this vineyard shows lots of dark but never heavy spice on the nose, with bergamot, white sage and damp eucalyptus forest complementing the raspberry fruit. The palate clings to a line of graphite minerality, with cooked raspberry torte and loamy earth flavors leading into a black-tea finish.	93	50	California	Pinot Noir
14,947	US	This limited cuvée is made from the smallest block at the estate vineyard. It's entirely hand-farmed, with stem-driven savory notes around strawberry fruit. There's a sense of a slightly metallic minerality threading through, with drying tannins.	91	75	Oregon	Pinot Noir
101,070	US	Pronounced Kay-lee, this is sourced from Red Mountain, hence the graphite and grain in the tannins. Lush cherry, tobacco and earth flavors combine, with a whiff of smoke wafting through the wine from start to finish.	91	39	Washington	Syrah
27,926	US	Off-dry and direct in citrus, apricot, green apple and honey flavors, this easy-drinking wine is refreshed with crisp acidity. Good now as a cocktail sipper.	85	18	California	Pinot Grigio
32,503	France	The renaissance of Kirwan, with the consultancy of Michel Rolland, continues with this ripe, forward, concentrated wine. The tannins are sweet and soft, with a solid, chunky structure that promises a long life. The finish displays balanced new wood flavors and a smooth polish.	94	55	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
127,579	US	This one-of-a-kind offering from Chehalem celebrates what they are calling a “great” vintage. The wine is dark, supple and immensely rich and dense, yet retains a lightness that captures the elegance of the Pinot Noir grape while propelling it to rarified heights. The mix of red and purple fruits, herb, spice and earth all come together in a smooth and seductive wine that drinks like a dream.	95	99	Oregon	Pinot Noir
68,160	US	Black and white pepper pop from the glass in this cool-climate, cool-vintage wine that retains just enough power around lacy acidity. A bouquet of violets rises on the nose before the palate offers spicy, lean bursts of meat, leather and black licorice. Made in small amounts, this wine is well worth seeking.	94	50	California	Syrah
91,455	US	Mourvèdre (62%) takes the lead on this wine followed by Syrah (21%) and Grenache. It's aromatic and appealing, with notes of roasted meat, black pepper, herb and plum. The red- and black-fruit flavors are concentrated and bring a compelling sense of texture. Smoke and savory flavors linger on the finish. It's a standout at this price.	92	25	Washington	Rhône-style Red Blend
129,010	US	Blackberry and cherry go toe-to-toe with a dark, savory element full of granite, dusty herbs and earth in this elegantly restrained red wine. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot, it offers a more muted expression of black fruit lifted by bright acidity and fine feathery tannins.	88	35	New York	Red Blend
116,784	US	These vines were planted in 1984; they are dry-farmed with all-natural acids, most unusual for Washington State. So you have a beguiling mix of aromatic, lightly soapy, perfumed, floral scents, matched to exotic passion fruit and grapefruity citrus. There is a lot of acid here, and it's a young wine, but it has wonderful concentration and a full-throttle mix of perfume, fruit and flesh. The finish seems endless, and promises a long life ahead.	92	22	Oregon	Gewürztraminer
3,079	US	This particular bottling belongs with the very best Syrahs from this Syrah-infatuated state. A broad, toasty, full-bodied and fully realized wine, it has begun to smooth out from the extra years in bottle, but has a long life ahead. Berries, cherries, chocolate, coffee, mocha, tobacco, fungus, graphite… the flavors go and go.	94	36	Washington	Syrah
61,127	US	The 200-acre Shea vineyard provides fruit to many of Oregon's best winemakers. Here is the estate's own brand, offering up a fragrant, appealing blend from various blocks. Floral highlights, dusty spices, a whiff of cocoa and a streak of nut butter all come into focus around pretty purple fruits. The finish is silky, long and lovely.	91	42	Oregon	Pinot Noir
45,059	France	This exudes notes of ripe yellow fruits while keeping an edge of structure. It's fragrant, with a fine dense texture that brings out acidity and a caramel flavor. It has aging potential, so keep it for over three years.	91	35	Burgundy	Chardonnay
71,019	US	Sineann has a stellar record with Cabs from Oregon and Washington State. Now they're making a Napa Cab, from a tiny vineyard in the Oak Knoll District. They've brought their Bordeaux-inspired vision to California, producing a structured wine brimming with tannins and acids, yet with rewarding currant, mocha and smoky oak flavors.	93	64	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
117,068	US	Aromas of pork au jus with mashed cranberry and pomegranate mesh expertly with sage spice, woody forest-floor notes, porcini mushrooms and a touch of juniper on the nose. The palate offers lots of juniper and anise spice atop a boysenberry core, with black slate and graphite minerality.	93	65	California	Pinot Noir
82,336	US	This full-bodied and robustly concentrated wine has chocolate and cherry aromas, rich and ripe plum and blackberry flavors and layers of chocolate and vanilla on the palate and finish. It feels broad and juicy in texture, too.	90	36	California	Zinfandel
6,843	Italy	This Brunello opens with inky, dark concentration and definitely shows a chewy, almost raw quality of cherry fruit that will most likely disappear withdonn just two or three more years of cellar aging. Cola, spice, leather and smoke fill in the rear and the wine ends with crisp acidity.	91	60	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
117,204	US	One sip is all it takes to understand that this is a vital, impressive and possibly profound wine. A blend of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, it displays the voluptuous richness of a Heidi Barrett wine, but also shows a firmness of character and a structural dryness that elevate it. Exceptionally flavorful in blackberries and cherries, it has tantalizing hints of herbs, olive tapenade and, of course, intensely fine oak. Drink now–2016.	95	200	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
71,600	US	Perhaps the most accessible of Melville's new 2011s, the Sandy's exhibits cherry, pomegranate and sweet red plum fruit flavors, leading to a long, spicy finish. It's round and mellow in the mouth, with a nice tang of acidity. Drink now–2016.	90	50	California	Pinot Noir
126,062	US	The new Mercer Canyons label gets off to a good start with this Chardonnay that's low in alcohol and clean. Bracing and leesy, this is definitely European in style, and it offers celery and melon flavors along with palate-refreshing minerality.	88	13	Washington	Chardonnay
19,170	US	The winery blends 84% Cabernet Sauvignon with 11% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec for this high-end red. Burly in tobacco and cedar, it also offers a floral, high-toned spirit built around juicy cranberry on the palate. With well-integrated tannins and oak, it finishes in a note of bittersweet chocolate.	90	150	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
101,794	France	Now at its peak, this is a rich, full-bodied wine. It has a fine blend of dark tannins and dense plum and berry fruits. Maturing well, the wine is well balanced, with a smoky edge and still with a touch of acidity. Drink now.	91	22	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
46,294	US	Vibrant lemon- and lime-zest notes make this off-dry Riesling brisk and bright. Chalky minerality and a saline tone add depth, and there is a pleasantly bitter lemon-peel note that lingers on the finish.	89	30	New York	Riesling
109,441	US	This wine shines with notes of smoked meat, mineral, dark coffee and earthy funk. The flavors are dense, rich and voluptuous, while retaining an exquisite sense of balance. It's an exclamation point of a wine that's approachable now.	95	50	Washington	Syrah
38,936	France	Based in the village of Les Loges, close to the Loire, this producer has made a light, fruity style of wine. It is crisp with citrus, bright acidity and only the hint of a more mineral texture. It can be drunk now for its fruitiness.	88	22	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
54,699	US	A good Merlot, although not without some problems. It's dry and silky, with soft tannins framing currant, violet and cedar flavors. However, there's a stubbornly green, minty streak that limits ageability.	86	42	California	Merlot
62,179	Spain	Aromas of leather, smoked meats, charred oak and lacquer are not for the weak, while the mouthfeel is firm, deep and just right. Juicy and bright in terms of flavors, with black cherry, vanilla and coconut. Toasty and alert on the finish, but with smacking tannins. Drinkable now and good for another four or five years.	90	19	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
128,312	France	From one of Champagne's less ageworthy vintages, this is already deliciously drinkable. It has fine acidity that cuts through the mineral texture, shaping the rounded fruitiness. It's dry and crisp at the end. Drink now and over the next 4–5 years.	90	70	Champagne	Champagne Blend
57,682	US	Marked by hefty tannins, this Cabernet is a little too astringent to drink now. With blackberry, currant and mineral flavors, it should develop for a while, but it could go downhill quickly, so it's a gamble. Production was 13,500 cases.	90	66	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
98,394	Italy	Violet, perfumed berry, menthol and thyme are just some of the aromas offered by this fragrant Barbaresco. The structured, graceful palate weaves together red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and a balsamic note. It's impeccably balanced with firm but polished tannins and bright acidity that provide an age-worthy framework. Drink 2017–2025.	95	55	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
73,625	US	Continuing in a tart and juicy vein, as in previous years, this boasts a concentrated and immaculate palate layered with citrus, peach and melon. The abundant fruit is perfectly supported by mouth-puckering (in a good way) natural acidity.	92	28	Oregon	Riesling
56,107	Italy	Black plum, dark kitchen spice, leather and pressed violet aromas lead the nose on this round, savory wine. On the velvety palate, firm, polished tannins frame mature black cherry, licorice and a hint of chewing tobacco. Drink through 2018.	90	25	Tuscany	Sangiovese
30,506	Germany	White floral and peach notes bound from the glass of this gorgeously feminine Riesling. It's intensely ripe, with peach and melon flavors, but dry and mineral laden on the palate. Finishes long, with a kiss of spring blossoms and a shock of lemon-lime acidity.	90	28	Mosel	Riesling
84,556	US	Blackberry and black cherry fruit is lightly dappled with peppery spices. There's also the slightest suggestion of fresh herb. It's a sturdy, supple wine of modest proportions.	89	45	Oregon	Pinot Noir
100,819	US	Made in a sweetly ripe, oaky manner, this is a drink-me-now Pinot Noir. Easy to like for its jammy raspberry, cherry and Dr. Pepper cola flavors. The acidity and soft tannins define the modern Russian River style.	88	49	California	Pinot Noir
63,702	US	Despite its varietal label, this drinks more like a Bordeaux-style blend with the Cabernet Sauvignon (11%) and Cabernet Franc (9%) showing themselves prominently. Coffee, flower, dried herb and red- and black-fruit aromas are followed by elegant, lightly creamy fruit flavors that carry through the finish.	88	26	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
97,649	US	Thoroughly delicious. This captures a distinctive side of the grape that blends a sweet grassy herbaceousness with a lively mix of apple, lemongrass, citrus and orange peel, finished with the slightest suggestion of honey.	92	18	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
110,630	Italy	Leafy underbrush, scorched earth, tobacco, vanilla, toasted oak and spiced plum aromas lead the nose. The smooth palate offers crushed black cherry, game, grilled herb, espresso and cooking spice. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide support.	90	35	Tuscany	Red Blend
120,433	US	This is a lovely, light-hearted yet complex 100% varietal wine that shows the beauty of a lighter touch and cooler climate. Cedar, herb and compost provide a wildness next to aromas of feral mushroom. Intriguing all the way around, this wine finishes in a burst of white pepper.	93	32	California	Syrah
99,301	US	Dense, dry and ripe, this is a Cabernet to lay down. It's really tough and gritty in tannins, but solid in wild blackberry, cherry and herb flavors. A powerful young Cabernet that needs 6–8 years to come around.	92	325	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
77,424	US	A very engaging Rhône blend made for immediate enjoyment. Doesn't try to hide its warm-climate terroir, with a soft texture framing jammy-sweet black raspberry, cherry, red currant, root beer and mocha flavors. Drink now.	87	25	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
4,686	US	This wine is a bold but well-mannered blockbuster that serves generous helpings of dark color, spicy aromas, concentrated flavors and a luxurious dry texture. It needs full-flavored, rich food to accompany it, and will deliver a lot of pleasure under those circumstances. Best to drink now through 2020.	91	20	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
125,226	US	This medium-bodied wine has veggie and grapefruit aromas and unapologetic herbal flavors on a fairly crisp texture.	85	14	California	Sauvignon Blanc

104,221

US

With a pale color and mouthwatering acidity, this delicately structured Pinot goes well beyond its immediate flavors of raspberry tea, pomegranates, persimmons, orange peel, exotic spices and oak to offer a Burgundian touch of earth and mushrooms. There's also a firm, stony minerality on the palate. This gorgeous Pinot was produced in tiny quantities of 300 cases and will drink well over the next six years.

94

36

California

Pinot Noir

38,062

US

This excellent and rich wine smells beautiful, and coats the mouth with velvety smoothness. The flavors range from green olives to tobacco and blackberries, with oaky complexities. The finish is dry, spicy and intense.

90

30

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

67,262

Italy

This is still surprisingly fresh considering the age of this wine. It's simple and enjoyable, with mouthwatering cherry flavors layered with mint and white pepper accents. Pair it with rich pasta dishes.

86

45

Veneto

Red Blend

8,876

US

Sourced largely from the Martin Stelling Vineyard behind the winery in the western shade of Oakville, this wine opens with charred oak and a smoky, meaty character that intrigues. Seamless on the palate in soft, perceptible tannin, it delves into characteristics of cedar and brushy sage as it goes, unveiling a wildness that's hard to contain. Its bright, fresh finish gives it a roundness that's ready to enjoy now.

95

155

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

104,443

Spain

This heavily oaked Ribera del Duero features maple, barrel char, dried cheese, licorice and boysenberry jam aromas. The palate is so concentrated it's syrupy, its blackened oak, crème de cassis and chocolate flavors feeling heavy on the finish. Drink this saturated bruiser through 2022.

91

67

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

105,864

US

Von Strasser has a good track record with this wine, and the '05 is right up there with the best, but be forewarned. It's very tannic. But then, it is from Diamond Mountain. Give it a good 4 years, at least, to throw some sediment and let the rich blackberry and black currant flavors emerge. Should hold well for 15 years.

92

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

14,054

US

This classic Champagne blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is dry and crisp with raspberry, orange and leesy flavors. It's quite a good brut, but slightly rough in texture. Drink up.

87

39

California

Sparkling Blend

37,686

Argentina

The nose has warm, jammy aromas that suggest horsehide and blackberry syrup. It feels chunky and full, with jammy, spicy, slightly herbal flavors of black fruits. On the finish, it turns more herbal and loses its structure.

84

8

Mendoza Province

Malbec

37,201

US

Coming from the winery's vineyard just outside the Lake Chelan appellation, this wine is moderately aromatic with notes of lime, pear, flowers and diesel. It drinks off dry, with abundant stone-fruit flavors that linger.

88

20

Washington

Riesling

41,915

Italy

Aromas of blue flowers and wild berry lead the nose on this medium-bodied red. The bright, savory palate offers black raspberry, Morello cherry, white pepper and anise. Vibrant acidity supports the juicy fruit flavors.

89

18

Piedmont

Barbera

54,558

US

A beautiful red wine for drinking now. It's dry and smooth, with that herbal edge you sometimes find in a Sonoma Cabernet. There's a polished, complex stream of dried red and black currants and cola, with a pleasant touch of smoky oak.

88

19

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

72,146

Italy

Aromas of iris, plum and woodland berry unfold in the glass. The savory palate is elegantly structured and displays juicy red cherry, red currant, anise seed and black pepper alongside supple tannins. Drink through 2018.

90

40

Tuscany

Red Blend

117,924

US

Though considered a rosé, Grenache Gris is actually its own grape, and a delicious one at that. Pale pink in color, this shows bubblegum, watermelon, rose petal, strawberry and cola spice on the nose. The palate is marked by boisterous, lemon-like acidity yet remains soft and welcoming, with sweet cotton candy touches.

92

28

California

Rosé

35,460

Argentina

Oaky, smoky aromas are New World all the way. Heavily toasted and creamy on the palate, this hefty full-bodied Chardonnay tastes of wood resin, spiced apple and peach. Solid acidity keep this in line, while a lasting wave of toasty oak pushes the finish.

90

46

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

19,226

US

Here's a good, everyday-style Merlot. It's dry and medium-bodied, with pleasant flavors of black cherries, black currants and oak, finished with a savory edge of tannins. Shows class beyond its price.

86

15

California

Merlot

125,833

Italy

There's always something magical about Gaja's Sorì San Lorenzo. It's the intensity and fullness of the wine that penetrates to the back of the palate and offers many long minutes of persistency on the finish. The bouquet is redolent of black fruit, leather, spice, tar, licorice and dried herb.

96

495

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

8,784

Spain

A dark tint and ripe aromas of blackberry, black plum and leather are appealing and inviting. This is weighty and full-bodied, with blackberry, boysenberry and cassis flavors. There's not a lot of nuance or complexity, but overall this is clean, tasty and generous.

89

11

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

28,753

US

This lovely wine has a great depth of decadent, succulent aromas of citrus and apple blossom, that explode around tangy acidity. Pear, quince and lemongrass-ginger spice dot the palate in measured, beautiful ways, finishing balanced and crisp.

91

45

California

Chardonnay

29,113

Italy

This offer aromas of plum jam, Oriental spice, underbrush and a whiff of blue flower. The lively, approachable palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, white pepper and clove alongside vibrant acidity.

89

20

Piedmont

Barbera

45,657

US

Soft and sweet in fruity extract and glycerols, and very high in alcohol, this Syrah is almost a dessert wine. There's no denying the flavors of blackberries, currants, sweet oak and chocolate are impressive, yet the wine needs greater dryness and structure.

86

60

California

Syrah

27,794

US

Ian Brand is a student of old vines, and it shows in this bottling from a century-old vineyard about 20 minutes south of San Jose. Rose petals, potpourri, dried strawberry and hibiscus-laced rooibos tea aromas transport one back to an old perfumery shop. Then the palate combines the woody tea spices with tart red berries, tarragon and dewy herbs. Fascinating stuff.

94

38

California

Grenache

13,460

Italy

Woodland berry, forest floor, crushed iris, chopped herb, star anise and menthol take shape in the glass. The juicy, generous palate doles out ripe black cherry, cranberry, licorice, baking spice and a dusting of cocoa while fine-grained tannins provide a velvety framework. Drink 2018–2024.

93

49

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

29,843

US

This clean if somewhat simple bottling starts with an extremely light and delicate nose of red cherry, rust, sagebrush, thyme and anise. The texture is light on the sip but the tannins prove somewhat grippy, with flavors of pomegranate and cracked pepper.

88

60

California

Pinot Noir

58,807

US

This mélange of mostly Viognier and Chardonnay also holds smaller percentages of Sauvignon Blanc, Symphony and Muscat. Incognito spent no time in oak. With a lively taste of orange blossom, it could almost be mistaken for Gewürztraminer because of its distinct mixture of floral and spice.

86

18

California

White Blend

89,798

US

Despite good vineyard sources, including DuBrul, Weinbau and Ciel du Cheval, this does not rise to the top ranks of Washington Cabernet Franc. The addition of 10% Sangiovese seems only to thin it out. It's astringent and herbal, with light cherry fruit.

85

25

Washington

Cabernet Franc

60,529

Spain

Gritty cassis aromas are oaky and challenging, which is what you can get when a wine spends more than three years in oak. In the mouth, this is wiry and rubbery. Foxy plum and cherry flavors finish clampy and herbal. Very good but with a few holes and pitfalls.

89

38

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

6,378

US

Slate, raspberry and black plum aromas mark the nose of this blend of 39% Grenache, 38% Syrah, 13% Mourvèdre and 10% Petite Sirah. Pronounced gravel-like minerality leads the palate, which frames cranberry fruit with grippy tannins.

87

32

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

115,907

Italy

Prunotto tends to exemplify a ripe, almost jammy style of Barolo with succulent cherry and smoked meat characteristics followed by vanilla, cinnamon, mineral, blackberry and licorice. The intensity is wonderful here but the wine still needs a few extra aging years in the bottle to relax those young tannins.

91

60

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

73,785

US

It's dry, with just-in-time acidity brightening pleasant raspberry, red currant and sandalwood flavors. As it warms in the glass, certain instabilities emerge. It's not an ager.

87

72

California

Pinot Noir

116,823

US

Crisp acidity buoys sharp red fruit in this delectable wine—a blend of multiple sites across the appellation. Medium build, it shows youthful tannins and oak that supports without intrusion, allowing the crunch of cranberry, strawberry and pomegranate to speak forcefully.

94

45

California

Pinot Noir

118,601

US

A nice, easy Pinot Noir, dry and crisp in acidity, light in color, silky in texture. Shows a good array of cherry, raspberry, cola and spice flavors.

86

22

California

Pinot Noir

82,712

France

Fresh citrus and tangy orange give this perfumed wine both fruitiness and a tight, mineral texture. It has enough structure to age; drink from 2018. This bottling is a blend of second-level white grapes from two Domaine Dillon properties: Château Haut-Brion and Château La Mission Haut-Brion, both in Pessac-Léognan.

93

107

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

111,170

Spain

Once again this is a stalwart modern-style Rioja with a mix of floral aromas, licorice, blackberry and coconut. The palate is both lively and subtle, and the flavor profile shows an impressive blend of cherry, plum, cream and cocoa, while the finish is long and smooth. A high-quality wine that should impress. Drink now through 2015.

93

62

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

13,459

US

Aromatic, chocolaty and deliciously smooth, the Sheridan vineyard bottling sends up sweet scents of ground coffee and chocolate. Compact fruit flavors of fig and black cherry run right into a bourbon barrel finish, with granular tannins that add welcome texture and a streak of graphite.

89

60

Washington

Red Blend

44,283

US

A new addition to the winery's portfolio, this wine is predominantly Sangiovese with some Syrah blended in. Bright aromas of wild strawberry and peach lead to crisp, dry, lightly spritzy fruit flavors that persist.

88

12

Washington

Rosé

77,257

US

This is the first white bottling from a new project by John Wagner, co-owner of John Sebastiano and Sierra Madre vineyards, and winemaker Paul Lato. Flint, dried limes, chives and a touch of smoked chicken show on the fresh nose. Light and clean on the sip, it's distinctive with flavors of buttered lemon slices, smoke and sweet onions.

93

40

California

Chardonnay

6,260

US

This is a heavy-duty Cabernet, big in every way, with rich black cherry and cassis fruit, and dense, dark tannins. The long, slightly grainy finish reinforces the impression of raw power, yet the wine retains perfect proportion and is nicely differentiated from the other 2010s crafted by winemaker Chris Figgins.

95

89

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

11,180

US

Dry and crisp, with peach and citrus flavors and a touch of oak, this wine benefitted from a cool growing season in usually hot Paso Robles. It has the acidity of a true coastal white wine.

84

19

California

Chardonnay

57,204

US

This blend of Pommard, Coury and Dijon 667 clones shows bright cherry fruit, bedecked with lovely spices. It's round and forward, with medium weight and depth.

90

65

Oregon

Pinot Noir

98,864

US

This dry, silky Pinot Noir is a good introduction to the variety, for those who want to learn more about it without paying a premium price. It shows proper cherry, raspberry and cola flavors, with a spicy finish.

86

14

California

Pinot Noir

110,644

Italy

A blend of grapes including traditional Corvina and Rondinella undergoes air-drying for extra-rich concentration and intensity. That, with careful oak aging, has shaped a richly textured, dense wine that would pair with game meat or bean soup with smoked bacon. It shows raw, slightly chewy tannins on the close.

88

20

Veneto

Red Blend

109,027

US

A pretty nose, plummy and rich, with a nice toasty, roasted finish. Elegant and medium bodied, in a ripe year like this the fruit gets past all unripe flavors and into some nice, slightly leafy, pretty fruit with hints of cherry tobacco.

87

22

Oregon

Merlot

64,818

US

A little sharp in acidity, and the white pepper spice adds to the impression of zippiness in this bone-dry Zin. It's deep and likeable in raspberry, cherry, blackberry and sandalwood flavors.

85

10

California

Zinfandel

83,629

US

Charred beef tips, grilled whole fish, wet dirt and heavy tar combine for a pungent, serious nose on this Syrah from a vineyard planted by Central Coast pioneer Dale Hampton. It's elegant and soft on the palate, opening up with boysenberry and sage, and possesses ample tannins for aging. Hang on until 2018.

90

35

California

Syrah

89,867

France

Old vines planted in the 1950s by a neighbor named Ovide form this complex wine. Aged for eight months on lees, it is a concentrated wine, tight with acidity and with nutty flavors that add complexity and give the wine depth. This beautiful wine needs to age. Drink from 2018.

93

25

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

45,765

US

Thin going here, with citrusy flavors and big, fresh Monterey acids. Seems to have some oak in it. Finishes dry and tart.

83

11

California

Chardonnay

44,690

US

The future of Finger Lakes Sauvingnon Blanc is bright, at least in the hands of Steve Shaw. Fragrant with sweet, ripe gooseberries, apples and a touch of herbs and grass, this is a delicious choice for any occasion. Full bodied and complex, its palate is lush with quince and green plums, highlighted by a refreshing minerality and a lime zest astringency.

89

16

New York

Sauvignon Blanc

18,912

Italy

Aged in large oak barrels, this opens with aromas suggesting toast, espresso and baking spice. The firm, concentrated palate offers tart cherry, licorice and ground clove alongside a backbone of bracing tannins.

89

79

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

13,473

US

Ripe and plump blackberries shine through in a showcase of fruit purity, lifted by dried fennel, hot black gravel, peppercorns, toasted sesame and soy. There is tremendous structure and acidity on the sip, with black pepper and black-sesame nuance plus juicy boysenberry character to the midpalate.

93

28

California

Syrah

125,211

Spain

Wiry and abrasive on the nose, this smells a lot like licorice and white gumdrops. In the mouth, this feels clipped and slightly artificial. Flavors of plastic, vanilla, chocolate and cherry come mostly from sketchy oak, while the finish is somewhat hot, with a plastic-like oak flavor.

85

13

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

118,229

US

Succulent, juicy fruit flavors combine lemon drop and butterscotch hard candy, buttressed with vivid acidity. This irresistible wine is drinking beautifully already.

91

18

Oregon

Chardonnay

116,623

US

Sadly, this is the last vintage for this single-vineyard Pinot Gris. Oaky, spicy, buttery and rich, its mouthfilling flavors conjure up thoughts of that fabulous baked pear brioche you had at that little bakery in Paris. It's ripe, fleshy and deliciously buttery, and it should be consumed right now.

92

45

Oregon

Pinot Gris

100,646

US

Carefully distinguished from the other Lange Pinots, this cuvée marries thick cherry fruit to highlights of cola, anise and earth. The winery's defining trait is crafting wines with impeccable balance, that are already seamless and highly approachable upon release, yet have the style and substance for cellaring over the next 8–10 years.

92

70

Oregon

Pinot Noir

64,783

US

Smoothly textured, this wine is thick and generously layered in flavors of blackberry coffee cake and coffee bean, the two combining nicely into one. Grippy on the finish, it's full bodied and brawny, as well as dusty in old-vine character.

87

28

California

Zinfandel

674

US

From a knoll in Carneros, oft thought of as chilly for Cabernet, this wine exhibits cooler aspects of the variety, from pencil lead and cedar to dried herb. It is complemented by fruitier characteristics of cassis and plum, finishing in dusty, structured tannins. Cellar through 2017–2020.

90

38

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

79,148

US

Reticent aromas of dried blue fruit and spice lead to full-feeling fruit flavors. The tannins bring some astringency.

85

12

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

9,678

US

Waxy apple stars in this brisk, approachable white from a single estate-farmed block, the oak briny and salty in toast and honey. Textured and elegantly light bodied, it finishes with a satisfying note of lemon candy.

90

30

California

Chardonnay

6,935

US

Gavin Chanin's take on this vineyard shows lots of dark but never heavy spice on the nose, with bergamot, white sage and damp eucalyptus forest complementing the raspberry fruit. The palate clings to a line of graphite minerality, with cooked raspberry torte and loamy earth flavors leading into a black-tea finish.

93

50

California

Pinot Noir

14,947

US

This limited cuvée is made from the smallest block at the estate vineyard. It's entirely hand-farmed, with stem-driven savory notes around strawberry fruit. There's a sense of a slightly metallic minerality threading through, with drying tannins.

91

75

Oregon

Pinot Noir

101,070

US

Pronounced Kay-lee, this is sourced from Red Mountain, hence the graphite and grain in the tannins. Lush cherry, tobacco and earth flavors combine, with a whiff of smoke wafting through the wine from start to finish.

91

39

Washington

Syrah

27,926

US

Off-dry and direct in citrus, apricot, green apple and honey flavors, this easy-drinking wine is refreshed with crisp acidity. Good now as a cocktail sipper.

85

18

California

Pinot Grigio

32,503

France

The renaissance of Kirwan, with the consultancy of Michel Rolland, continues with this ripe, forward, concentrated wine. The tannins are sweet and soft, with a solid, chunky structure that promises a long life. The finish displays balanced new wood flavors and a smooth polish.

94

55

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

127,579

US

This one-of-a-kind offering from Chehalem celebrates what they are calling a “great” vintage. The wine is dark, supple and immensely rich and dense, yet retains a lightness that captures the elegance of the Pinot Noir grape while propelling it to rarified heights. The mix of red and purple fruits, herb, spice and earth all come together in a smooth and seductive wine that drinks like a dream.

95

99

Oregon

Pinot Noir

68,160

US

Black and white pepper pop from the glass in this cool-climate, cool-vintage wine that retains just enough power around lacy acidity. A bouquet of violets rises on the nose before the palate offers spicy, lean bursts of meat, leather and black licorice. Made in small amounts, this wine is well worth seeking.

94

50

California

Syrah

91,455

US

Mourvèdre (62%) takes the lead on this wine followed by Syrah (21%) and Grenache. It's aromatic and appealing, with notes of roasted meat, black pepper, herb and plum. The red- and black-fruit flavors are concentrated and bring a compelling sense of texture. Smoke and savory flavors linger on the finish. It's a standout at this price.

92

25

Washington

Rhône-style Red Blend

129,010

US

Blackberry and cherry go toe-to-toe with a dark, savory element full of granite, dusty herbs and earth in this elegantly restrained red wine. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot, it offers a more muted expression of black fruit lifted by bright acidity and fine feathery tannins.

88

35

New York

Red Blend

116,784

US

These vines were planted in 1984; they are dry-farmed with all-natural acids, most unusual for Washington State. So you have a beguiling mix of aromatic, lightly soapy, perfumed, floral scents, matched to exotic passion fruit and grapefruity citrus. There is a lot of acid here, and it's a young wine, but it has wonderful concentration and a full-throttle mix of perfume, fruit and flesh. The finish seems endless, and promises a long life ahead.

92

22

Oregon

Gewürztraminer

3,079

US

This particular bottling belongs with the very best Syrahs from this Syrah-infatuated state. A broad, toasty, full-bodied and fully realized wine, it has begun to smooth out from the extra years in bottle, but has a long life ahead. Berries, cherries, chocolate, coffee, mocha, tobacco, fungus, graphite… the flavors go and go.

94

36

Washington

Syrah

61,127

US

The 200-acre Shea vineyard provides fruit to many of Oregon's best winemakers. Here is the estate's own brand, offering up a fragrant, appealing blend from various blocks. Floral highlights, dusty spices, a whiff of cocoa and a streak of nut butter all come into focus around pretty purple fruits. The finish is silky, long and lovely.

91

42

Oregon

Pinot Noir

45,059

France

This exudes notes of ripe yellow fruits while keeping an edge of structure. It's fragrant, with a fine dense texture that brings out acidity and a caramel flavor. It has aging potential, so keep it for over three years.

91

35

Burgundy

Chardonnay

71,019

US

Sineann has a stellar record with Cabs from Oregon and Washington State. Now they're making a Napa Cab, from a tiny vineyard in the Oak Knoll District. They've brought their Bordeaux-inspired vision to California, producing a structured wine brimming with tannins and acids, yet with rewarding currant, mocha and smoky oak flavors.

93

64

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

117,068

US

Aromas of pork au jus with mashed cranberry and pomegranate mesh expertly with sage spice, woody forest-floor notes, porcini mushrooms and a touch of juniper on the nose. The palate offers lots of juniper and anise spice atop a boysenberry core, with black slate and graphite minerality.

93

65

California

Pinot Noir

82,336

US

This full-bodied and robustly concentrated wine has chocolate and cherry aromas, rich and ripe plum and blackberry flavors and layers of chocolate and vanilla on the palate and finish. It feels broad and juicy in texture, too.

90

36

California

Zinfandel

6,843

Italy

This Brunello opens with inky, dark concentration and definitely shows a chewy, almost raw quality of cherry fruit that will most likely disappear withdonn just two or three more years of cellar aging. Cola, spice, leather and smoke fill in the rear and the wine ends with crisp acidity.

91

60

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

117,204

US

One sip is all it takes to understand that this is a vital, impressive and possibly profound wine. A blend of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, it displays the voluptuous richness of a Heidi Barrett wine, but also shows a firmness of character and a structural dryness that elevate it. Exceptionally flavorful in blackberries and cherries, it has tantalizing hints of herbs, olive tapenade and, of course, intensely fine oak. Drink now–2016.

95

200

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

71,600

US

Perhaps the most accessible of Melville's new 2011s, the Sandy's exhibits cherry, pomegranate and sweet red plum fruit flavors, leading to a long, spicy finish. It's round and mellow in the mouth, with a nice tang of acidity. Drink now–2016.

90

50

California

Pinot Noir

126,062

US

The new Mercer Canyons label gets off to a good start with this Chardonnay that's low in alcohol and clean. Bracing and leesy, this is definitely European in style, and it offers celery and melon flavors along with palate-refreshing minerality.

88

13

Washington

Chardonnay

19,170

US

The winery blends 84% Cabernet Sauvignon with 11% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec for this high-end red. Burly in tobacco and cedar, it also offers a floral, high-toned spirit built around juicy cranberry on the palate. With well-integrated tannins and oak, it finishes in a note of bittersweet chocolate.

90

150

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

101,794

France

Now at its peak, this is a rich, full-bodied wine. It has a fine blend of dark tannins and dense plum and berry fruits. Maturing well, the wine is well balanced, with a smoky edge and still with a touch of acidity. Drink now.

91

22

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

46,294

US

Vibrant lemon- and lime-zest notes make this off-dry Riesling brisk and bright. Chalky minerality and a saline tone add depth, and there is a pleasantly bitter lemon-peel note that lingers on the finish.

89

30

New York

Riesling

109,441

US

This wine shines with notes of smoked meat, mineral, dark coffee and earthy funk. The flavors are dense, rich and voluptuous, while retaining an exquisite sense of balance. It's an exclamation point of a wine that's approachable now.

95

50

Washington

Syrah

38,936

France

Based in the village of Les Loges, close to the Loire, this producer has made a light, fruity style of wine. It is crisp with citrus, bright acidity and only the hint of a more mineral texture. It can be drunk now for its fruitiness.

88

22

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

54,699

US

A good Merlot, although not without some problems. It's dry and silky, with soft tannins framing currant, violet and cedar flavors. However, there's a stubbornly green, minty streak that limits ageability.

86

42

California

Merlot

62,179

Spain

Aromas of leather, smoked meats, charred oak and lacquer are not for the weak, while the mouthfeel is firm, deep and just right. Juicy and bright in terms of flavors, with black cherry, vanilla and coconut. Toasty and alert on the finish, but with smacking tannins. Drinkable now and good for another four or five years.

90

19

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

128,312

France

From one of Champagne's less ageworthy vintages, this is already deliciously drinkable. It has fine acidity that cuts through the mineral texture, shaping the rounded fruitiness. It's dry and crisp at the end. Drink now and over the next 4–5 years.

90

70

Champagne

Champagne Blend

57,682

US

Marked by hefty tannins, this Cabernet is a little too astringent to drink now. With blackberry, currant and mineral flavors, it should develop for a while, but it could go downhill quickly, so it's a gamble. Production was 13,500 cases.

90

66

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

98,394

Italy

Violet, perfumed berry, menthol and thyme are just some of the aromas offered by this fragrant Barbaresco. The structured, graceful palate weaves together red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and a balsamic note. It's impeccably balanced with firm but polished tannins and bright acidity that provide an age-worthy framework. Drink 2017–2025.

95

55

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

73,625

US

Continuing in a tart and juicy vein, as in previous years, this boasts a concentrated and immaculate palate layered with citrus, peach and melon. The abundant fruit is perfectly supported by mouth-puckering (in a good way) natural acidity.

92

28

Oregon

Riesling

56,107

Italy

Black plum, dark kitchen spice, leather and pressed violet aromas lead the nose on this round, savory wine. On the velvety palate, firm, polished tannins frame mature black cherry, licorice and a hint of chewing tobacco. Drink through 2018.

90

25

Tuscany

Sangiovese

30,506

Germany

White floral and peach notes bound from the glass of this gorgeously feminine Riesling. It's intensely ripe, with peach and melon flavors, but dry and mineral laden on the palate. Finishes long, with a kiss of spring blossoms and a shock of lemon-lime acidity.

90

28

Mosel

Riesling

84,556

US

Blackberry and black cherry fruit is lightly dappled with peppery spices. There's also the slightest suggestion of fresh herb. It's a sturdy, supple wine of modest proportions.

89

45

Oregon

Pinot Noir

100,819

US

Made in a sweetly ripe, oaky manner, this is a drink-me-now Pinot Noir. Easy to like for its jammy raspberry, cherry and Dr. Pepper cola flavors. The acidity and soft tannins define the modern Russian River style.

88

49

California

Pinot Noir

63,702

US

Despite its varietal label, this drinks more like a Bordeaux-style blend with the Cabernet Sauvignon (11%) and Cabernet Franc (9%) showing themselves prominently. Coffee, flower, dried herb and red- and black-fruit aromas are followed by elegant, lightly creamy fruit flavors that carry through the finish.

88

26

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

97,649

US

Thoroughly delicious. This captures a distinctive side of the grape that blends a sweet grassy herbaceousness with a lively mix of apple, lemongrass, citrus and orange peel, finished with the slightest suggestion of honey.

92

18

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

110,630

Italy

Leafy underbrush, scorched earth, tobacco, vanilla, toasted oak and spiced plum aromas lead the nose. The smooth palate offers crushed black cherry, game, grilled herb, espresso and cooking spice. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide support.

90

35

Tuscany

Red Blend

120,433

US

This is a lovely, light-hearted yet complex 100% varietal wine that shows the beauty of a lighter touch and cooler climate. Cedar, herb and compost provide a wildness next to aromas of feral mushroom. Intriguing all the way around, this wine finishes in a burst of white pepper.

93

32

California

Syrah

99,301

US

Dense, dry and ripe, this is a Cabernet to lay down. It's really tough and gritty in tannins, but solid in wild blackberry, cherry and herb flavors. A powerful young Cabernet that needs 6–8 years to come around.

92

325

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

77,424

US

A very engaging Rhône blend made for immediate enjoyment. Doesn't try to hide its warm-climate terroir, with a soft texture framing jammy-sweet black raspberry, cherry, red currant, root beer and mocha flavors. Drink now.

87

25

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

4,686

US

This wine is a bold but well-mannered blockbuster that serves generous helpings of dark color, spicy aromas, concentrated flavors and a luxurious dry texture. It needs full-flavored, rich food to accompany it, and will deliver a lot of pleasure under those circumstances. Best to drink now through 2020.

91

20

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

125,226

US

This medium-bodied wine has veggie and grapefruit aromas and unapologetic herbal flavors on a fairly crisp texture.

85

14

California

Sauvignon Blanc