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
51,722	US	This Gironde-inspired blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon is solid now, but will be far more interesting in the years to come. Aromas of wet slate and wet wool meet with Pink Lady apples and green, grassy meadows on the nose. The mineral-focused palate shows graphite and steel touches, with angular grass tones that lead into a warmed touch of toast on the finish. Drink 2018–2025.	92	65	California	Bordeaux-style White Blend
111,186	US	Pretty thin going, almost like a Sauvignon Blanc with its tart, citrusy fruit flavors and high acidity. Not a bad wine, but if you're looking for a rich, oaky Chardonnay, shop around.	84	9	California	Chardonnay
92,930	US	This wine is 100% varietal. The aromas are locked up at present, with notes of luxurious French oak treatment and cherry. The flavors are dense and concentrated, but the tannins show a fair amount of grip, providing some distraction. There are good things going on but the oak is intense at present.	89	60	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
124,832	US	A straightforward wine that goes the extra mile to achieve richness and finesse. The citrusy flavors are expressive and intense. One of the best Sauvignon Blanc values you'll find.	86	11	California	Sauvignon Blanc
87,532	US	This 100% Zin erupts in briary, peppery wild raspberry, blueberry and cherry flavors. The tannins are firm, and the acids crisp and savory. What a lovely Zinfandel, made in the soft, velvety style of Merlot, but with Bradford Mountain power.	92	45	California	Zinfandel
56,961	France	This wine is rich, concentrated and ripe. With its opulent mix of yellow fruits, citrus and sliced apple—a real fruit salad—it is also balanced with spice and wood flavors. The fruit is rich and will develop well. Drink this from 2020.	96	476	Burgundy	Chardonnay
60,777	US	This wine has a ridiculous alcohol of 16.3%, which makes it prickly, and the dryness makes it taste even hotter, since there's no sugar to balance and soften. It's got extremely ripe blackberry-pie flavors. Be careful if you drink this; a little goes a long way.	83	22	California	Zinfandel
88,171	Argentina	Heady, high-class aromas of kirsch, balsamic-soaked blackberry and licorice get this off to a great start. At this stage, this is intense and restricted, but concentrated in a promising way. Toasty black-fruit flavors welcome coffee and chocolate accents on the finish. Give this powerful Cab Franc time; best 2018–2027.	93	120	Mendoza Province	Cabernet Franc
37,613	Italy	This has textbook aromas of smoke, earth and cherry. On the palate, the flavors come through, and if in the final analysis, it lacked a little concentration, the complexity was here, and the finish is decent. Imported by Global E. Selections, LLC.	87	20	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
68,470	US	Best of the three, this ripe and round Merlot is fully loaded with juicy, appealing red and blue fruits. Forward and clean, with excellent palate penetration, its smooth tannins are supported with firm acid.	88	18	Washington	Merlot
103,627	France	A rich, smooth wine, all ripe black fruit and soft tannins. It has weight and depth, but is ready to drink now.	87	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
68,775	US	Simple and harsh in texture, this Pinot has the variety's silky texture, but not much else going for it. The flavors are minty and green, with just the barest suggestion of cherries.	81	12	California	Pinot Noir
93,022	Italy	Made with Sangiovese and small amounts of Malvasia Nera, Colorino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this opens with aromas of dark-skinned fruit, fragrant purple flower and dark culinary spice. Bright and juicy, the easygoing palate doles out succulent wild cherry, cinnamon and clove set against supple tannins. Drink through 2019.	89	24	Tuscany	Red Blend
61,685	US	Thick in sandpapery tannins, this Petite Sirah shows very ripe, sweet flavors of blackberry jam, currants, chocolate, raisins and pepper. It's rustic now, and likely to remain so over a long lifespan.	84	35	California	Petite Sirah
109,242	US	Light pepper, cassis and a hint of leather form the nose on this wine from a brand founded in 1994 specifically to deliver quality wines at affordable prices. The palate offers grilled meat and roasted root-vegetable flavors. Fairly gripping tannins mean that this wine could survive through 2017.	86	11	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
23,045	Italy	This big and brooding wine offers intense aromas of black fruits, raisins, vanilla and toast. The palate presents ripe blackberry, white pepper, prune and licorice flavors. Pair it with seasoned cheeses or mushroom risotto.	88	24	Veneto	Red Blend
1,321	Spain	Focused crisp aromas of white fruits reflect a cool vintage. This is roughly one-quarter each Macabeo, Parellada, Xarello and Chardonnay, and it feels tight, fresh and focused. Dry stone-fruit flavors include a hint of lime, while this is clean on the finish.	90	25	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
105,962	US	The same Bell as the well-known Napa Valley winery, Bell extends its reach into Oregon to make this lip-smackingly good Pinot Gris. Gooseberry, melon, kiwi and grapefruit flavors swirl across the tongue, leaving a clean, fresh and very fruity wake. The moderate alcohol is an added bonus.	88	22	Oregon	Pinot Gris
100,408	US	Quite a good wine, with Cabernet-esque blackberries and black currants, and a rich toastiness from charred oak. Feels a little angular and jammy in youth. Give it two or three years in the cellar to soften and mellow.	91	50	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
57,527	US	All stainless fermented, this seems to show some residual sugar, perhaps in order to round out the austere acidity. Lemon and tangerine fruit—all with plenty of acid—are annotated with highlights of fresh cilantro. It would be a fine match for simple, white fish.	88	16	Oregon	Pinot Gris
60,237	Italy	Delicate scents of red berry, blue flower, forest floor and menthol lead the nose. The no-frills palate offers juicy wild cherry, star anise and cured meat framed in firm acidity and close-grained tannins.	87	18	Tuscany	Sangiovese
19,148	US	A unique personality reveals itself through the subtle but exotic aromas, rich texture and vivid but not overripe fruit flavors. It tastes and feels substantial and full bodied. Vivid acidity buoys up everything and helps the finish linger. A blend of Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Picpoul Blanc, it tastes like it will improve with age. Best now through 2018.	90	38	California	White Blend
126,065	France	This wine has a crisp, steely texture. The apple and citrus flavors and the wood underlay make this a food-friendly selection.	88	35	Burgundy	Chardonnay
82,104	US	Round fruit flavors meld melon, pears and apricots. Partial barrel fermentation smoothes it all out and adds just a touch of vanilla spice. It's a lovely choice for a Chardonnay alternative that will match appropriately with a variety of food.	88	21	Oregon	Viognier
38,944	US	Supple white-fleshed fruits, from pear to cherimoya, touch the nose, as do aromas of lemon rind, struck match and dried apple on this blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Viognier. A gravelly, pencil lead minerality on the palate is boosted by sliced lemon wedges, cut grass and gooseberry notes.	88	35	California	White Blend
62,712	Spain	Dusty, earthy berry aromas are solid and pure. This is a juicy, lively organic wine with good weight and balance. Spicy, peppery flavors of oak and berry fruits finish with mild heat and dry spice notes.	87	12	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
45,481	US	Fleshy black plum and cherry flavors are offset by leafy, green layers of herb and stem in this luscious but balanced red blend. Its intense fruitiness makes it approachable and juicy but crisp acidity and fine penetrating tannins keep things in check. Drink now through 2021.	88	50	New York	Red Blend
2,328	US	This airy confection has aromas of lemon and vanilla, then almost sweet flavors of butterscotch and lemon cream on a fairly soft texture. It is light to medium bodied.	85	12	California	Chardonnay
68,679	France	This Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier blend is perfectly ready to drink with fine mature fruit, layers of toast and tangy spice. From a very good Champagne vintage, it's rich while having plenty of acidity to allow it to age further.	92	30	Champagne	Champagne Blend
120,508	US	A big, rich, softly jammy Petite Sirah that's packed with flavors of blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate, anise and pepper. It's tannic, so cellaring this puppy for a good six years is recommended—although, it will always be fairly rustic.	89	65	California	Petite Sirah
28,975	France	This blend of Cabernet France, Malbec and Pinot Noir shows the eclectic range of red grapes at the disposal of a Touraine vigneron. It has also produced a soft, gently tannic wine with perfumed fruits, bitter cherry and a herbal aftertaste.	86	17	Loire Valley	Red Blend
79,568	US	The cold 2011 vintage has taken its toll on this wine. It's bone dry, crisp in acidity and not quite ripe, with its citrus and tropical fruit flavors compromised by a touch of green bean.	84	20	California	Sauvignon Blanc
57,991	France	Big and bold, this is a rich wine with firm tannins that are balanced by dense fruitiness. Spice, a dark texture and concentration hint at the extraction although this does not detract from potential of the fruit. Give this several more years before drinking, certainly don't try it before 2020.	90	33	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
118,585	US	Plump blueberries, slate, gravel, turned earth and a light fennel character show on this wine, which comes in a custom bottle exclusive to the appellation's estate-grown Syrahs. The palate shows a lively acidity that briskly expresses the black pepper, black currant and espresso flavors.	90	29	California	Syrah
104,262	Italy	Made with Sangiovese, this vibrant red opens with aromas of fresh violet, woodland berry, underbrush, new leather and a balsamic note. The linear, elegant palate delivers crushed raspberry, wild cherry, star anise and a hint of white pepper. It boasts youthful tension, with taut polished tannins and bright acidity that give it an ageworthy structure. Give it a few more years to come together. Drink 2019–2028.	93	44	Tuscany	Sangiovese
111,003	US	Full, forward, fleshy nose shows lots of bright, spicy fruit. Unlike a lot of lower cost Zins, this wine has a lot of sweet fruit, and enough body and weight to carry through past the nose into a big, satisfying finish. Nice toast, plenty of acid, a bit hot in the finish.	87	12	California	Zinfandel
98,739	France	Rich new wood and fruit combine well in this concentrated wine. Flavors go right through to give mint, blackberry and dark plum fruits. The tannins are already integrated to give a wine that will be ready to drink in two years.	88	24	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
53,286	US	Simple and a little one-dimensional in fruit and spice flavors, this dessert wine's main feature is sweetness. It has a flavor like the syrup from canned peaches.	82	20	California	Gewürztraminer
60,283	US	Loaded with flavors of fresh Bartlett pears, this excellent Pinot Gris has both flavor and texture to spare. It's a fine expression of the Oregon style; clean and fruit-driven, forward and juicy, with a broad midpalate and crisp natural acids.	90	14	Oregon	Pinot Gris
35,959	US	MacPhail has shown steady improvement working with this vineyard, which seems to require a cool year like 2009 to succeed. The wine is quite light in body and color, but the flavors really penetrate and sink in deep. They range from red cherries and cola to red licorice, bacon and spices, with a deft touch of oak. Dry and crisp in acidity, it should provide fascinating drinking over the next seven years.	93	49	California	Pinot Noir
228	US	A thoroughly honest effort, opening with lovely quince, apple and lemon fruit. The palate has a crisp lime edge and finishes with a kick of refreshing acidity. Drink now.	85	14	New York	Riesling
13,179	US	From a challenging Napa Valley vintage, this red is made in what the winemaker calls a “Right Bank” style, blending 56% Cabernet Franc with 42% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards such as Hyde in Carneros. The wine is brimming in dark plum and severe chocolate and cherry, with a reasonable amount of grip.	87	54	California	Red Blend
79,965	US	Stainless-steel fermentation yields a tangy, ripe, tart, tongue-tickling Gewurztraminer with exceptional minerality. The echoing varietal flavors of flower and rosewater add interest to the finish. Still a bit yeasty, but should improve with a little more bottle age.	87	19	Oregon	Gewürztraminer
10,351	Italy	Aromas of cellar floor, roasted herb, anise and toast come together on this. The straightforward palate offers cherry marinated in spirits and licorice while a note of powdered sage gives it a bitter finish.	87	65	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
96,277	US	A nod to the winery's co-owner Judge Royce Lewellen, this bottling is full of campfire smoke, red cherry, hibiscus and roasted pork aromas. That smoky character, which is pleasant if a tad overbearing, follows through to the palate, accenting the plum and black pepper flavors.	89	58	California	Merlot
11,227	US	Vibrant aromas of honeysuckle, honey-drizzled peach and green apple lead to medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors. Pair it with a spicy Thai dish.	88	11	Washington	Riesling
58,456	Spain	Richly oaked aromas of burnt wood, caramel and sawmill compete with jammy blackberry and cassis notes. A rugged, drawing palate is fiercely tannic and dry. Blackberry, burnt oak and coffee flavors dry out quickly on the finish, leaving simmering toasty mint. Drink through 2025.	91	61	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
48,962	US	From winemaker Bryan Kane, who also makes the Howell Mountain Vineyards' wines, comes this tiny-production Cabernet Sauvignon from two separate Howell Mountain sources. A delight in black plum, licorice and peppery leather, it's soft and complex. Boysenberry highlights the fruit components, while the finish is deftly marked by wild vanilla.	92	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
95,550	US	Originating from a small, new producer based in the Napa Valley, this shows crushed stone and golden oak. Its essential succulence is that of high-toned citrus and apple kissed in caramel. A tease of lingering acidity makes it undeniably fresh and deliciously crisp.	95	65	California	Chardonnay
94,570	Spain	A little cidery and funky smelling at first, but it settles to show stalky notes, scallion, tarragon and citrus flavors. Layered in feel but a bit green tasting throughout.	85	10	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
83,360	US	A stunningly beautiful Cabernet, made from the estate vineyard of all five classic Bordeaux varieties. Softly tannic and dry, it shows lush flavors of green olives, black cherries, anise and smoky oak that swirl into a long, impressive finish. Drinkable now for sheer beauty, it will develop over the next decade.	96	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
53,253	France	This wine highlights a balanced blend of the three Champagne grapes. In the house style of Henri Abele, it is ripe, with a tight mineral edge that gives a crisp aftertaste enhanced by lemon, pink grapefruit and touch of spice. Drink this attractive bottling now.	90	40	Champagne	Champagne Blend
129,926	US	This pure Syrah from Reininger's estate vineyard has the focus and also the tightness that often characterize single-vineyard wines. There are dense flavors of cranberry and pomegranate, plenty of natural acid, along with polished tannins and a soothing layer of toasty oak, that helps smooth the rough edges and buff up the finish. Hints of earth, leaf and tar add detail and interest all the way through a lingering finish.	91	41	Washington	Syrah
22,335	Italy	Ferrari produces wonderful sparkling wines year after year and this Brut Rosé carries forth that proud Trento (northern Italy) tradition. It opens with a pale pink color and deep layers of yeast, cranberry and savory spice.	90	38	Northeastern Italy	Sparkling Blend
36,707	US	This hits the palate rather hard and green, with thin fruit that does not seem quite ripe. The barrel flavors add fat and caramel over the top, but remain unintegrated and seem out of place. The wine reverts to its green side as the tannins take over.	84	24	Washington	Merlot
124,906	US	Extremely refreshing and lovely on the nose, this slightly lower-priced bottling from the Mount Eden team shows nectarine, crisp pluot, cherimoya flesh and the lightest hint of Key-lime zest on the nose. The structure on the sip is intense, with stony crushed-concrete elements and flavors of lime rind, cold Gala apple and gunmetal.	93	30	California	Chardonnay
91,472	US	Minty, this restrained Syrah is from a sought-after vineyard, a pioneer in Sonoma County Rhône-style wines. Here, the producer keeps things interesting in swathes of white pepper, mint and cranberry, as well as a strong sense of leather throughout. High in acidity, it needs time to come together; try after 2020.	91	38	California	Syrah
72,808	Italy	Densely concentrated, this plush wine opens with aromas of black currant, espresso and cedar. The robust, one-dimensional palate delivers raisin, chocolate and licorice alongside velvety tannins that hold the flavors together.	89	65	Tuscany	Syrah
3,998	Spain	Horsey, leathery aromas are earthy and funky, although with time blackberry notes rise up. The wine is lively, tough and offers bracing acidity. Flavors of herbs, licorice and lemony acidity support core blackberry fruit, while the finish is herbal and woodsy, with dark notes of espresso and black licorice.	88	96	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
13,844	Portugal	The wine is rich, possibly too rich with its dark tannins and tarry character. While there are plenty of black plum fruits, there is also some bitter licorice that comes from extraction during winemaking. Considering its age, it is likely this character will remain. The wine is ready to drink.	86	10	Douro	Portuguese Red
7,404	US	Gary Farrell's Bordeaux blend is quite good and well-made, but it isn't showing much complexity now. It's a big, tannic wine that impresses with its blast of fruit. Blackberries, cherries, plums, currants, cocoa all swamp the palate, along with smoky oak notes. Maybe it will do interesting things in the cellar.	87	65	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
45,884	France	This is a pale-colored wine—lightly fruity and with a crisp clean texture. It is balanced with acidity and orange-zest flavor, giving the wine a refreshing lift at the end. This is an apéritif style, ready to drink now.	86	13	Provence	Rosé
31,747	France	This is a full, perfumed wine that's medium sweet in flavor. It is rich in spice, packed with honey and lychees, and well balanced with light acidity. The wine has an opulence and a warming aftertaste. Drink until 2022.	91	25	Alsace	Pinot Gris
81,751	US	Broad aromas of nectarine splashed with warm lemon juice mix with cut pear and ripe red apples on this bottling. The palate shows cooked apples, with slight hints of peach, all quite ripe.	85	28	California	Pinot Grigio
72,460	Italy	This opens with delicate aromas of red-skinned berry and baking spice. Straightforward and tangy, the palate offers raspberry, citrus zest and clove alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy soon.	87	16	Veneto	Red Blend
64,397	US	Young and bright, this is loaded with fresh boysenberry and tart cherry flavor. At first sip, it seems concentrated with excellent structure and length; as it breathes some green tannins begin to show in the finish. Overall a good effort.	89	25	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
82,437	US	A very fruity Zinfandel, rewarding in blackberry, blueberry tart and currant flavors, accented with dark chocolate, anise and pepper. Too soft, and would benefit from greater crispness, but it's a nice Zin now.	86	25	California	Zinfandel
1,123	US	Red apple, spice and honey aromas lead to medium-sweet fruit flavors. It brings some appeal but the concentration doesn't seem all there.	84	40	Washington	Pinot Gris
12,214	France	Tight and tannic, this wine is still young. The stalky fruit is cut with intense acidity coming from the crisp black currant flavors. It's a wine that needs some aging although it will probably remain dry and stalky. Drink from 2016.	86	20	Provence	Red Blend
121,047	US	Cutting crisp tangerine, peach and honeydew melons abound on the nose of this full-bodied textured Sauvignon Blanc. Sprightly lemon-lime acidity lends balance and edge, and a hint of bitterness on the finish lends elegant structure.	90	24	New York	Sauvignon Blanc
20,200	US	Rich and robust with smooth tannins, this Lake County Cabernet tastes deliciously austere, with leather, cedar and earth layered over crisp mountain berry fruit. More like the Xurus 2007 than the 2008, it should age just as gracefully, with its savory nature strengthening over time.	90	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
41,450	Argentina	Aromas of hard spices, licorice root and earth override any berry fruit notes this Cabernet blend shows. Round on the palate, with juicy acidity, this tastes of plum and spicy oak. A long, woody, spicy finish brings it home.	86	20	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
49,541	US	Welcoming bubblegum, key lime, grass and cement aromas check many Sauvignon Blanc boxes in this widely available and reliable bottling. The palate leads with decent structure, but then ripeness prevails, with peach and more bubblegum notes.	87	17	California	Sauvignon Blanc
73,318	US	100% varietal, this is a strict barrel selection from key vineyards – Les Collines, Seven Hills, Lewis and Portteus. It is tight, dense, deeply detailed, and built for long term aging. Right now it's showing a fair amount of herb and forest floor, but the structure is so perfect that it doesn't matter.	94	85	Washington	Syrah
4,418	US	This wine's aromas bring cherry and chocolate to mind. The palate provides pleasing fruit and barrel notes, but the two seem disconnected.	89	52	Washington	Merlot
8,655	US	Complex in Middle Eastern and baking spices, Occasio's Petite Sirah is meant to be a tribute to the Livermore Valley's early days of viticultural promise and it delivers in a modern way. With a juicy mouthfeel of red and black fruit, it retains vibrant acidity and finishes long.	89	35	California	Petite Sirah
88,279	Italy	This special selection Brunello shows ripe notes of strawberry and raspberry backed by spice and mature cherry. It's smooth and bright with a touch of sour fruit on the close.	88	90	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
46,449	US	Opens aromatically exhibiting lemon cheesecake, then delves into the rightful amount of apple and pear, finishing with a hearty helping of vanilla and caramel. Del Arroyo remains a source to watch in Livermore, especially for Chardonnay.	89	32	California	Chardonnay
38,269	Australia	This is surprisingly plump and accessible, featuring scents of lime rind upfront, then flavors of apple, nectarine and citrus. A medium-bodied wine with a long, mouthwatering finish, it's a tasty near-term drinker but should develop well for up to 10 years.	90	37	South Australia	Riesling
36,036	Spain	Floral and lightly earthy on the nose, with a touch of latex. Feels fresh and pure, with fine acidity pressing bright flavors of red cherry and raspberry. Gets toastier and darker on the finish, ending with spice and clarity.	86	13	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
42,276	US	Boldly grapey, this blend of Diamond, Cayuga White and Catawba grapes is a fun fruity sip with that characteristic “foxiness” of American grapes. It's simple and a bit sugary, but light footed and fresh.	86	10	New York	White Blend
20,060	France	This wine comes from a single vineyard on the south bank of the Vienne river. It is ripe, perfumed and generously rich with concentrated blackberry fruit and balanced tannins. Some wood aging has broadened the wine rather than adding flavor. The wine could age another year with noticeable benefit, so drink from 2018.	91	20	Loire Valley	Cabernet Franc
109,707	Italy	Underbrush, leather, black pepper, clove and leather lead the nose on this brawny wine. The spicy palate offers allspice, anisette, concentrated black cherry and juicy raspberry alongside strapping tannins. It's one-dimensional but savory. Enjoy through 2015.	88	27	Tuscany	Sangiovese
26,519	US	Sourced from the Cedar Ranch vineyard in the Illinois Valley, this exquisite Riesling was entirely fermented with native yeast in both concrete egg and neutral wood. Given extended lees contact, it's textural and loaded with dry extract. Flavors highlight citrus rind, grapefruit and wet stone through the long and satisfying finish.	93	25	Oregon	Riesling
105,768	Spain	This is leathery and earthy up front, with cherry and berry aromas that come with a flower accent. It feels snappy, alert and slightly citrusy, with raspberry, red plum and vanilla flavors. It's relatively short and choppy on the finish, but it's fresh, with the proper amount of oak.	89	17	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
66,438	France	The appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise only produces white wine. This wine has a smooth and creamy character with attractive acidity and bright acidity. It is a perfumed wine just hinting at a more mineral texture. Drink from 2017.	88	40	Burgundy	Chardonnay
15,062	Spain	A lot is going on up front; there's cassis, raisin, prune and dill aromas. Medium to full in the mouth, with lively berry, plum and spice flavors. Not too sweet and fairly long and earthy on the finish. A pure example of Rioja Reserva.	89	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
75,338	US	A rich, full-bodied wine with small amounts of Merlot and Malbec, this offers sizable tannins that wrap themselves around dark, brooding fruit and smoky oak. Blackberry and plum intertwine around luxurious chocolate and tobacco, complementing one another on the finish.	90	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
72,134	Italy	Made with 80% Sangiovese and 20% Colorino, Ciliegiolo and other native grapes, this vibrant red offers ripe black cherry, licorice, clove, black pepper, espresso, Mediterranean herb and a balsamic note. It's still young but well balanced with youthfully assertive tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2016–2022.	90	30	Tuscany	Red Blend
85,604	Portugal	This is a rich, full and structured wine with a great balance between black fruit and tannins. It shows the stony minerality of the Douro, with generous fruit and acidity. Drink from 2018.	88	12	Douro	Portuguese Red
56,830	Argentina	This Cabernet Franc blend opens with herbal oaky aromas of coffee and red fruits. The palate feels tartaric and shocking, with heavy extraction and an overall wiry feel. Jacked-up berry flavors come with more than enough oak, while this is steady but not finessed or elegant on the finish. Drink through 2021.	91	100	Mendoza Province	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
65,533	Spain	Bouncy, rubbery berry aromas come with latex and Band-Aid scents. A wiry, crisp mouthfeel sets up limited but spunky red-fruit flavors that are also a bit herbal and stalky. A briny finish shows juicy acidity but mediocre flavors.	84	13	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
41,338	US	This is a classic, well made Lake County Sauvignon Blanc. It's creamy with fig, vanilla, cantaloupe and pineapple flavors, but with a crisp finish.	87	16	California	Sauvignon Blanc
6,300	US	If you're new to Pinot Noir and curious, but not ready to spend a lot, check this out. It gets the idea across, with a dry, silky mouthfeel and basic flavors of raspberries, red currants and oak.	84	10	California	Pinot Noir
49,627	US	Despite 15.1% alcohol, this is dull, one dimensional and rather light. The tannins are a little beefed up, but there's marginal fruit and everything seems a bit out of whack.	81	14	Washington	Merlot
84,219	US	Light, bright and racy, this wine from Dave Potter's new label shows fresh and clean touches of lime, quinine, mandarin orange pith, baking soda and light mint on the nose. The texture is appropriately oily, with petrol flavors and sprinkles of acidity that play across the palate.	89	35	California	Riesling
50,064	US	Rich, ripe black-cherry and plum flavors penetrate throughout this plump, juicy Cabernet Franc. It's decadent and forward in style, but lingering notes of spice and tea leaves lend complexity to the palate.	90	20	New York	Cabernet Franc
38,457	US	The unfolding layers of aroma on the nose of this bottling—sesame, white pepper, rose and wild berry, to name a few—keep one coming back for more. The palate is textured and finishes on an uplifting note, showing raspberry, dried flowers, fresh herbs and a hint of menthol toward the end.	93	75	California	Pinot Noir
100,752	US	This Gewürz is on the sweet side, but it's clean and crisp in acids, and offers wildly rich citrus, tropical fruit, exotic spice, vanilla bean and white flower flavors. Great with today's Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai or Burmese fare.	88	22	California	Gewürztraminer
45,001	France	Extra rich, ripe and round , this offers a full fruitiness that explodes in the mouth. Tannins and structure are all there, although the main thrust of this wine is the balance between this tension and the generous fruits that are developing. Drink from 2019.	96	62	Burgundy	Chardonnay

51,722

US

This Gironde-inspired blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon is solid now, but will be far more interesting in the years to come. Aromas of wet slate and wet wool meet with Pink Lady apples and green, grassy meadows on the nose. The mineral-focused palate shows graphite and steel touches, with angular grass tones that lead into a warmed touch of toast on the finish. Drink 2018–2025.

92

65

California

Bordeaux-style White Blend

111,186

US

Pretty thin going, almost like a Sauvignon Blanc with its tart, citrusy fruit flavors and high acidity. Not a bad wine, but if you're looking for a rich, oaky Chardonnay, shop around.

84

9

California

Chardonnay

92,930

US

This wine is 100% varietal. The aromas are locked up at present, with notes of luxurious French oak treatment and cherry. The flavors are dense and concentrated, but the tannins show a fair amount of grip, providing some distraction. There are good things going on but the oak is intense at present.

89

60

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

124,832

US

A straightforward wine that goes the extra mile to achieve richness and finesse. The citrusy flavors are expressive and intense. One of the best Sauvignon Blanc values you'll find.

86

11

California

Sauvignon Blanc

87,532

US

This 100% Zin erupts in briary, peppery wild raspberry, blueberry and cherry flavors. The tannins are firm, and the acids crisp and savory. What a lovely Zinfandel, made in the soft, velvety style of Merlot, but with Bradford Mountain power.

92

45

California

Zinfandel

56,961

France

This wine is rich, concentrated and ripe. With its opulent mix of yellow fruits, citrus and sliced apple—a real fruit salad—it is also balanced with spice and wood flavors. The fruit is rich and will develop well. Drink this from 2020.

96

476

Burgundy

Chardonnay

60,777

US

This wine has a ridiculous alcohol of 16.3%, which makes it prickly, and the dryness makes it taste even hotter, since there's no sugar to balance and soften. It's got extremely ripe blackberry-pie flavors. Be careful if you drink this; a little goes a long way.

83

22

California

Zinfandel

88,171

Argentina

Heady, high-class aromas of kirsch, balsamic-soaked blackberry and licorice get this off to a great start. At this stage, this is intense and restricted, but concentrated in a promising way. Toasty black-fruit flavors welcome coffee and chocolate accents on the finish. Give this powerful Cab Franc time; best 2018–2027.

93

120

Mendoza Province

Cabernet Franc

37,613

Italy

This has textbook aromas of smoke, earth and cherry. On the palate, the flavors come through, and if in the final analysis, it lacked a little concentration, the complexity was here, and the finish is decent. Imported by Global E. Selections, LLC.

87

20

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

68,470

US

Best of the three, this ripe and round Merlot is fully loaded with juicy, appealing red and blue fruits. Forward and clean, with excellent palate penetration, its smooth tannins are supported with firm acid.

88

18

Washington

Merlot

103,627

France

A rich, smooth wine, all ripe black fruit and soft tannins. It has weight and depth, but is ready to drink now.

87

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

68,775

US

Simple and harsh in texture, this Pinot has the variety's silky texture, but not much else going for it. The flavors are minty and green, with just the barest suggestion of cherries.

81

12

California

Pinot Noir

93,022

Italy

Made with Sangiovese and small amounts of Malvasia Nera, Colorino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this opens with aromas of dark-skinned fruit, fragrant purple flower and dark culinary spice. Bright and juicy, the easygoing palate doles out succulent wild cherry, cinnamon and clove set against supple tannins. Drink through 2019.

89

24

Tuscany

Red Blend

61,685

US

Thick in sandpapery tannins, this Petite Sirah shows very ripe, sweet flavors of blackberry jam, currants, chocolate, raisins and pepper. It's rustic now, and likely to remain so over a long lifespan.

84

35

California

Petite Sirah

109,242

US

Light pepper, cassis and a hint of leather form the nose on this wine from a brand founded in 1994 specifically to deliver quality wines at affordable prices. The palate offers grilled meat and roasted root-vegetable flavors. Fairly gripping tannins mean that this wine could survive through 2017.

86

11

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

23,045

Italy

This big and brooding wine offers intense aromas of black fruits, raisins, vanilla and toast. The palate presents ripe blackberry, white pepper, prune and licorice flavors. Pair it with seasoned cheeses or mushroom risotto.

88

24

Veneto

Red Blend

1,321

Spain

Focused crisp aromas of white fruits reflect a cool vintage. This is roughly one-quarter each Macabeo, Parellada, Xarello and Chardonnay, and it feels tight, fresh and focused. Dry stone-fruit flavors include a hint of lime, while this is clean on the finish.

90

25

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

105,962

US

The same Bell as the well-known Napa Valley winery, Bell extends its reach into Oregon to make this lip-smackingly good Pinot Gris. Gooseberry, melon, kiwi and grapefruit flavors swirl across the tongue, leaving a clean, fresh and very fruity wake. The moderate alcohol is an added bonus.

88

22

Oregon

Pinot Gris

100,408

US

Quite a good wine, with Cabernet-esque blackberries and black currants, and a rich toastiness from charred oak. Feels a little angular and jammy in youth. Give it two or three years in the cellar to soften and mellow.

91

50

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

57,527

US

All stainless fermented, this seems to show some residual sugar, perhaps in order to round out the austere acidity. Lemon and tangerine fruit—all with plenty of acid—are annotated with highlights of fresh cilantro. It would be a fine match for simple, white fish.

88

16

Oregon

Pinot Gris

60,237

Italy

Delicate scents of red berry, blue flower, forest floor and menthol lead the nose. The no-frills palate offers juicy wild cherry, star anise and cured meat framed in firm acidity and close-grained tannins.

87

18

Tuscany

Sangiovese

19,148

US

A unique personality reveals itself through the subtle but exotic aromas, rich texture and vivid but not overripe fruit flavors. It tastes and feels substantial and full bodied. Vivid acidity buoys up everything and helps the finish linger. A blend of Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Picpoul Blanc, it tastes like it will improve with age. Best now through 2018.

90

38

California

White Blend

126,065

France

This wine has a crisp, steely texture. The apple and citrus flavors and the wood underlay make this a food-friendly selection.

88

35

Burgundy

Chardonnay

82,104

US

Round fruit flavors meld melon, pears and apricots. Partial barrel fermentation smoothes it all out and adds just a touch of vanilla spice. It's a lovely choice for a Chardonnay alternative that will match appropriately with a variety of food.

88

21

Oregon

Viognier

38,944

US

Supple white-fleshed fruits, from pear to cherimoya, touch the nose, as do aromas of lemon rind, struck match and dried apple on this blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Viognier. A gravelly, pencil lead minerality on the palate is boosted by sliced lemon wedges, cut grass and gooseberry notes.

88

35

California

White Blend

62,712

Spain

Dusty, earthy berry aromas are solid and pure. This is a juicy, lively organic wine with good weight and balance. Spicy, peppery flavors of oak and berry fruits finish with mild heat and dry spice notes.

87

12

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

45,481

US

Fleshy black plum and cherry flavors are offset by leafy, green layers of herb and stem in this luscious but balanced red blend. Its intense fruitiness makes it approachable and juicy but crisp acidity and fine penetrating tannins keep things in check. Drink now through 2021.

88

50

New York

Red Blend

2,328

US

This airy confection has aromas of lemon and vanilla, then almost sweet flavors of butterscotch and lemon cream on a fairly soft texture. It is light to medium bodied.

85

12

California

Chardonnay

68,679

France

This Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier blend is perfectly ready to drink with fine mature fruit, layers of toast and tangy spice. From a very good Champagne vintage, it's rich while having plenty of acidity to allow it to age further.

92

30

Champagne

Champagne Blend

120,508

US

A big, rich, softly jammy Petite Sirah that's packed with flavors of blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate, anise and pepper. It's tannic, so cellaring this puppy for a good six years is recommended—although, it will always be fairly rustic.

89

65

California

Petite Sirah

28,975

France

This blend of Cabernet France, Malbec and Pinot Noir shows the eclectic range of red grapes at the disposal of a Touraine vigneron. It has also produced a soft, gently tannic wine with perfumed fruits, bitter cherry and a herbal aftertaste.

86

17

Loire Valley

Red Blend

79,568

US

The cold 2011 vintage has taken its toll on this wine. It's bone dry, crisp in acidity and not quite ripe, with its citrus and tropical fruit flavors compromised by a touch of green bean.

84

20

California

Sauvignon Blanc

57,991

France

Big and bold, this is a rich wine with firm tannins that are balanced by dense fruitiness. Spice, a dark texture and concentration hint at the extraction although this does not detract from potential of the fruit. Give this several more years before drinking, certainly don't try it before 2020.

90

33

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

118,585

US

Plump blueberries, slate, gravel, turned earth and a light fennel character show on this wine, which comes in a custom bottle exclusive to the appellation's estate-grown Syrahs. The palate shows a lively acidity that briskly expresses the black pepper, black currant and espresso flavors.

90

29

California

Syrah

104,262

Italy

Made with Sangiovese, this vibrant red opens with aromas of fresh violet, woodland berry, underbrush, new leather and a balsamic note. The linear, elegant palate delivers crushed raspberry, wild cherry, star anise and a hint of white pepper. It boasts youthful tension, with taut polished tannins and bright acidity that give it an ageworthy structure. Give it a few more years to come together. Drink 2019–2028.

93

44

Tuscany

Sangiovese

111,003

US

Full, forward, fleshy nose shows lots of bright, spicy fruit. Unlike a lot of lower cost Zins, this wine has a lot of sweet fruit, and enough body and weight to carry through past the nose into a big, satisfying finish. Nice toast, plenty of acid, a bit hot in the finish.

87

12

California

Zinfandel

98,739

France

Rich new wood and fruit combine well in this concentrated wine. Flavors go right through to give mint, blackberry and dark plum fruits. The tannins are already integrated to give a wine that will be ready to drink in two years.

88

24

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

53,286

US

Simple and a little one-dimensional in fruit and spice flavors, this dessert wine's main feature is sweetness. It has a flavor like the syrup from canned peaches.

82

20

California

Gewürztraminer

60,283

US

Loaded with flavors of fresh Bartlett pears, this excellent Pinot Gris has both flavor and texture to spare. It's a fine expression of the Oregon style; clean and fruit-driven, forward and juicy, with a broad midpalate and crisp natural acids.

90

14

Oregon

Pinot Gris

35,959

US

MacPhail has shown steady improvement working with this vineyard, which seems to require a cool year like 2009 to succeed. The wine is quite light in body and color, but the flavors really penetrate and sink in deep. They range from red cherries and cola to red licorice, bacon and spices, with a deft touch of oak. Dry and crisp in acidity, it should provide fascinating drinking over the next seven years.

93

49

California

Pinot Noir

228

US

A thoroughly honest effort, opening with lovely quince, apple and lemon fruit. The palate has a crisp lime edge and finishes with a kick of refreshing acidity. Drink now.

85

14

New York

Riesling

13,179

US

From a challenging Napa Valley vintage, this red is made in what the winemaker calls a “Right Bank” style, blending 56% Cabernet Franc with 42% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards such as Hyde in Carneros. The wine is brimming in dark plum and severe chocolate and cherry, with a reasonable amount of grip.

87

54

California

Red Blend

79,965

US

Stainless-steel fermentation yields a tangy, ripe, tart, tongue-tickling Gewurztraminer with exceptional minerality. The echoing varietal flavors of flower and rosewater add interest to the finish. Still a bit yeasty, but should improve with a little more bottle age.

87

19

Oregon

Gewürztraminer

10,351

Italy

Aromas of cellar floor, roasted herb, anise and toast come together on this. The straightforward palate offers cherry marinated in spirits and licorice while a note of powdered sage gives it a bitter finish.

87

65

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

96,277

US

A nod to the winery's co-owner Judge Royce Lewellen, this bottling is full of campfire smoke, red cherry, hibiscus and roasted pork aromas. That smoky character, which is pleasant if a tad overbearing, follows through to the palate, accenting the plum and black pepper flavors.

89

58

California

Merlot

11,227

US

Vibrant aromas of honeysuckle, honey-drizzled peach and green apple lead to medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors. Pair it with a spicy Thai dish.

88

11

Washington

Riesling

58,456

Spain

Richly oaked aromas of burnt wood, caramel and sawmill compete with jammy blackberry and cassis notes. A rugged, drawing palate is fiercely tannic and dry. Blackberry, burnt oak and coffee flavors dry out quickly on the finish, leaving simmering toasty mint. Drink through 2025.

91

61

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

48,962

US

From winemaker Bryan Kane, who also makes the Howell Mountain Vineyards' wines, comes this tiny-production Cabernet Sauvignon from two separate Howell Mountain sources. A delight in black plum, licorice and peppery leather, it's soft and complex. Boysenberry highlights the fruit components, while the finish is deftly marked by wild vanilla.

92

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

95,550

US

Originating from a small, new producer based in the Napa Valley, this shows crushed stone and golden oak. Its essential succulence is that of high-toned citrus and apple kissed in caramel. A tease of lingering acidity makes it undeniably fresh and deliciously crisp.

95

65

California

Chardonnay

94,570

Spain

A little cidery and funky smelling at first, but it settles to show stalky notes, scallion, tarragon and citrus flavors. Layered in feel but a bit green tasting throughout.

85

10

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

83,360

US

A stunningly beautiful Cabernet, made from the estate vineyard of all five classic Bordeaux varieties. Softly tannic and dry, it shows lush flavors of green olives, black cherries, anise and smoky oak that swirl into a long, impressive finish. Drinkable now for sheer beauty, it will develop over the next decade.

96

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

53,253

France

This wine highlights a balanced blend of the three Champagne grapes. In the house style of Henri Abele, it is ripe, with a tight mineral edge that gives a crisp aftertaste enhanced by lemon, pink grapefruit and touch of spice. Drink this attractive bottling now.

90

40

Champagne

Champagne Blend

129,926

US

This pure Syrah from Reininger's estate vineyard has the focus and also the tightness that often characterize single-vineyard wines. There are dense flavors of cranberry and pomegranate, plenty of natural acid, along with polished tannins and a soothing layer of toasty oak, that helps smooth the rough edges and buff up the finish. Hints of earth, leaf and tar add detail and interest all the way through a lingering finish.

91

41

Washington

Syrah

22,335

Italy

Ferrari produces wonderful sparkling wines year after year and this Brut Rosé carries forth that proud Trento (northern Italy) tradition. It opens with a pale pink color and deep layers of yeast, cranberry and savory spice.

90

38

Northeastern Italy

Sparkling Blend

36,707

US

This hits the palate rather hard and green, with thin fruit that does not seem quite ripe. The barrel flavors add fat and caramel over the top, but remain unintegrated and seem out of place. The wine reverts to its green side as the tannins take over.

84

24

Washington

Merlot

124,906

US

Extremely refreshing and lovely on the nose, this slightly lower-priced bottling from the Mount Eden team shows nectarine, crisp pluot, cherimoya flesh and the lightest hint of Key-lime zest on the nose. The structure on the sip is intense, with stony crushed-concrete elements and flavors of lime rind, cold Gala apple and gunmetal.

93

30

California

Chardonnay

91,472

US

Minty, this restrained Syrah is from a sought-after vineyard, a pioneer in Sonoma County Rhône-style wines. Here, the producer keeps things interesting in swathes of white pepper, mint and cranberry, as well as a strong sense of leather throughout. High in acidity, it needs time to come together; try after 2020.

91

38

California

Syrah

72,808

Italy

Densely concentrated, this plush wine opens with aromas of black currant, espresso and cedar. The robust, one-dimensional palate delivers raisin, chocolate and licorice alongside velvety tannins that hold the flavors together.

89

65

Tuscany

Syrah

3,998

Spain

Horsey, leathery aromas are earthy and funky, although with time blackberry notes rise up. The wine is lively, tough and offers bracing acidity. Flavors of herbs, licorice and lemony acidity support core blackberry fruit, while the finish is herbal and woodsy, with dark notes of espresso and black licorice.

88

96

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

13,844

Portugal

The wine is rich, possibly too rich with its dark tannins and tarry character. While there are plenty of black plum fruits, there is also some bitter licorice that comes from extraction during winemaking. Considering its age, it is likely this character will remain. The wine is ready to drink.

86

10

Douro

Portuguese Red

7,404

US

Gary Farrell's Bordeaux blend is quite good and well-made, but it isn't showing much complexity now. It's a big, tannic wine that impresses with its blast of fruit. Blackberries, cherries, plums, currants, cocoa all swamp the palate, along with smoky oak notes. Maybe it will do interesting things in the cellar.

87

65

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

45,884

France

This is a pale-colored wine—lightly fruity and with a crisp clean texture. It is balanced with acidity and orange-zest flavor, giving the wine a refreshing lift at the end. This is an apéritif style, ready to drink now.

86

13

Provence

Rosé

31,747

France

This is a full, perfumed wine that's medium sweet in flavor. It is rich in spice, packed with honey and lychees, and well balanced with light acidity. The wine has an opulence and a warming aftertaste. Drink until 2022.

91

25

Alsace

Pinot Gris

81,751

US

Broad aromas of nectarine splashed with warm lemon juice mix with cut pear and ripe red apples on this bottling. The palate shows cooked apples, with slight hints of peach, all quite ripe.

85

28

California

Pinot Grigio

72,460

Italy

This opens with delicate aromas of red-skinned berry and baking spice. Straightforward and tangy, the palate offers raspberry, citrus zest and clove alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy soon.

87

16

Veneto

Red Blend

64,397

US

Young and bright, this is loaded with fresh boysenberry and tart cherry flavor. At first sip, it seems concentrated with excellent structure and length; as it breathes some green tannins begin to show in the finish. Overall a good effort.

89

25

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

82,437

US

A very fruity Zinfandel, rewarding in blackberry, blueberry tart and currant flavors, accented with dark chocolate, anise and pepper. Too soft, and would benefit from greater crispness, but it's a nice Zin now.

86

25

California

Zinfandel

1,123

US

Red apple, spice and honey aromas lead to medium-sweet fruit flavors. It brings some appeal but the concentration doesn't seem all there.

84

40

Washington

Pinot Gris

12,214

France

Tight and tannic, this wine is still young. The stalky fruit is cut with intense acidity coming from the crisp black currant flavors. It's a wine that needs some aging although it will probably remain dry and stalky. Drink from 2016.

86

20

Provence

Red Blend

121,047

US

Cutting crisp tangerine, peach and honeydew melons abound on the nose of this full-bodied textured Sauvignon Blanc. Sprightly lemon-lime acidity lends balance and edge, and a hint of bitterness on the finish lends elegant structure.

90

24

New York

Sauvignon Blanc

20,200

US

Rich and robust with smooth tannins, this Lake County Cabernet tastes deliciously austere, with leather, cedar and earth layered over crisp mountain berry fruit. More like the Xurus 2007 than the 2008, it should age just as gracefully, with its savory nature strengthening over time.

90

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

41,450

Argentina

Aromas of hard spices, licorice root and earth override any berry fruit notes this Cabernet blend shows. Round on the palate, with juicy acidity, this tastes of plum and spicy oak. A long, woody, spicy finish brings it home.

86

20

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

49,541

US

Welcoming bubblegum, key lime, grass and cement aromas check many Sauvignon Blanc boxes in this widely available and reliable bottling. The palate leads with decent structure, but then ripeness prevails, with peach and more bubblegum notes.

87

17

California

Sauvignon Blanc

73,318

US

100% varietal, this is a strict barrel selection from key vineyards – Les Collines, Seven Hills, Lewis and Portteus. It is tight, dense, deeply detailed, and built for long term aging. Right now it's showing a fair amount of herb and forest floor, but the structure is so perfect that it doesn't matter.

94

85

Washington

Syrah

4,418

US

This wine's aromas bring cherry and chocolate to mind. The palate provides pleasing fruit and barrel notes, but the two seem disconnected.

89

52

Washington

Merlot

8,655

US

Complex in Middle Eastern and baking spices, Occasio's Petite Sirah is meant to be a tribute to the Livermore Valley's early days of viticultural promise and it delivers in a modern way. With a juicy mouthfeel of red and black fruit, it retains vibrant acidity and finishes long.

89

35

California

Petite Sirah

88,279

Italy

This special selection Brunello shows ripe notes of strawberry and raspberry backed by spice and mature cherry. It's smooth and bright with a touch of sour fruit on the close.

88

90

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

46,449

US

Opens aromatically exhibiting lemon cheesecake, then delves into the rightful amount of apple and pear, finishing with a hearty helping of vanilla and caramel. Del Arroyo remains a source to watch in Livermore, especially for Chardonnay.

89

32

California

Chardonnay

38,269

Australia

This is surprisingly plump and accessible, featuring scents of lime rind upfront, then flavors of apple, nectarine and citrus. A medium-bodied wine with a long, mouthwatering finish, it's a tasty near-term drinker but should develop well for up to 10 years.

90

37

South Australia

Riesling

36,036

Spain

Floral and lightly earthy on the nose, with a touch of latex. Feels fresh and pure, with fine acidity pressing bright flavors of red cherry and raspberry. Gets toastier and darker on the finish, ending with spice and clarity.

86

13

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

42,276

US

Boldly grapey, this blend of Diamond, Cayuga White and Catawba grapes is a fun fruity sip with that characteristic “foxiness” of American grapes. It's simple and a bit sugary, but light footed and fresh.

86

10

New York

White Blend

20,060

France

This wine comes from a single vineyard on the south bank of the Vienne river. It is ripe, perfumed and generously rich with concentrated blackberry fruit and balanced tannins. Some wood aging has broadened the wine rather than adding flavor. The wine could age another year with noticeable benefit, so drink from 2018.

91

20

Loire Valley

Cabernet Franc

109,707

Italy

Underbrush, leather, black pepper, clove and leather lead the nose on this brawny wine. The spicy palate offers allspice, anisette, concentrated black cherry and juicy raspberry alongside strapping tannins. It's one-dimensional but savory. Enjoy through 2015.

88

27

Tuscany

Sangiovese

26,519

US

Sourced from the Cedar Ranch vineyard in the Illinois Valley, this exquisite Riesling was entirely fermented with native yeast in both concrete egg and neutral wood. Given extended lees contact, it's textural and loaded with dry extract. Flavors highlight citrus rind, grapefruit and wet stone through the long and satisfying finish.

93

25

Oregon

Riesling

105,768

Spain

This is leathery and earthy up front, with cherry and berry aromas that come with a flower accent. It feels snappy, alert and slightly citrusy, with raspberry, red plum and vanilla flavors. It's relatively short and choppy on the finish, but it's fresh, with the proper amount of oak.

89

17

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

66,438

France

The appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise only produces white wine. This wine has a smooth and creamy character with attractive acidity and bright acidity. It is a perfumed wine just hinting at a more mineral texture. Drink from 2017.

88

40

Burgundy

Chardonnay

15,062

Spain

A lot is going on up front; there's cassis, raisin, prune and dill aromas. Medium to full in the mouth, with lively berry, plum and spice flavors. Not too sweet and fairly long and earthy on the finish. A pure example of Rioja Reserva.

89

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

75,338

US

A rich, full-bodied wine with small amounts of Merlot and Malbec, this offers sizable tannins that wrap themselves around dark, brooding fruit and smoky oak. Blackberry and plum intertwine around luxurious chocolate and tobacco, complementing one another on the finish.

90

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

72,134

Italy

Made with 80% Sangiovese and 20% Colorino, Ciliegiolo and other native grapes, this vibrant red offers ripe black cherry, licorice, clove, black pepper, espresso, Mediterranean herb and a balsamic note. It's still young but well balanced with youthfully assertive tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2016–2022.

90

30

Tuscany

Red Blend

85,604

Portugal

This is a rich, full and structured wine with a great balance between black fruit and tannins. It shows the stony minerality of the Douro, with generous fruit and acidity. Drink from 2018.

88

12

Douro

Portuguese Red

56,830

Argentina

This Cabernet Franc blend opens with herbal oaky aromas of coffee and red fruits. The palate feels tartaric and shocking, with heavy extraction and an overall wiry feel. Jacked-up berry flavors come with more than enough oak, while this is steady but not finessed or elegant on the finish. Drink through 2021.

91

100

Mendoza Province

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

65,533

Spain

Bouncy, rubbery berry aromas come with latex and Band-Aid scents. A wiry, crisp mouthfeel sets up limited but spunky red-fruit flavors that are also a bit herbal and stalky. A briny finish shows juicy acidity but mediocre flavors.

84

13

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

41,338

US

This is a classic, well made Lake County Sauvignon Blanc. It's creamy with fig, vanilla, cantaloupe and pineapple flavors, but with a crisp finish.

87

16

California

Sauvignon Blanc

6,300

US

If you're new to Pinot Noir and curious, but not ready to spend a lot, check this out. It gets the idea across, with a dry, silky mouthfeel and basic flavors of raspberries, red currants and oak.

84

10

California

Pinot Noir

49,627

US

Despite 15.1% alcohol, this is dull, one dimensional and rather light. The tannins are a little beefed up, but there's marginal fruit and everything seems a bit out of whack.

81

14

Washington

Merlot

84,219

US

Light, bright and racy, this wine from Dave Potter's new label shows fresh and clean touches of lime, quinine, mandarin orange pith, baking soda and light mint on the nose. The texture is appropriately oily, with petrol flavors and sprinkles of acidity that play across the palate.

89

35

California

Riesling

50,064

US

Rich, ripe black-cherry and plum flavors penetrate throughout this plump, juicy Cabernet Franc. It's decadent and forward in style, but lingering notes of spice and tea leaves lend complexity to the palate.

90

20

New York

Cabernet Franc

38,457

US

The unfolding layers of aroma on the nose of this bottling—sesame, white pepper, rose and wild berry, to name a few—keep one coming back for more. The palate is textured and finishes on an uplifting note, showing raspberry, dried flowers, fresh herbs and a hint of menthol toward the end.

93

75

California

Pinot Noir

100,752

US

This Gewürz is on the sweet side, but it's clean and crisp in acids, and offers wildly rich citrus, tropical fruit, exotic spice, vanilla bean and white flower flavors. Great with today's Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai or Burmese fare.

88

22

California

Gewürztraminer

45,001

France

Extra rich, ripe and round , this offers a full fruitiness that explodes in the mouth. Tannins and structure are all there, although the main thrust of this wine is the balance between this tension and the generous fruits that are developing. Drink from 2019.

96

62

Burgundy

Chardonnay