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
45,179	US	Here's a smooth, polished and rewarding Cabernet Sauvignon. It shows the structure and finesse you expect from Napa Valley, and is not one of those modern fruit bombs despite rich flavors of blackberries, currants and cassis. Good now and through 2010, at least.	90	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
68,761	US	Zesty lime-skin notes lend elegance to this lavishly floral, fruity saprkling Chardonnay. It's brisk and clean on the palate, with startling citrus acidity that cuts through a thick, heavy mousse.	88	60	New York	Chardonnay
82,890	US	Shows good Chardonnay character, with pleasant citrus and tropical fruit, buttered toast and vanilla flavors. The acidity is fine, but it's watery, lacking depth and fullness. Disappointing from this producer.	85	30	California	Chardonnay
95,089	US	Deliciously soft and flavorful now, with all sorts of ripe primary fruit and new oak influences that are almost candied in their richness. Raspberries, cherries, orange zest, licorice, bacon, cinnamon, vanilla and sweet smoky sandalwood flood the mouth, firmed up with fine tannins. Best now–2012.	90	48	California	Pinot Noir
70,379	France	Baked red currant and apple notes create a very appetizing nose. Their tart fruitiness mingles beautifully with the shortbread notes on the dry, refreshing palate and makes this almost impossible to put down. The finish is wonderfully clean and refreshing.	89	15	Alsace	Pinot Noir
9,238	US	This wine opens with the fresh liveliness of stemmy earth and black tea notes, growing funkier and more herbal on the midpalate. Brightly layered and deeply flavored, it's a full-bodied rendition that remains true to its variety.	91	35	California	Pinot Noir
34,613	US	This delivers the best of both worlds for this aromatic grape. Crispy cut-grass notes blossom into tropical pineapple guava and green papaya. A laser focus of lime on the palate subsequently opens toward green pears, freshly cut oregano and dill, and an apple skin-driven bitterness.	91	24	California	Sauvignon Blanc
122,705	US	In sharp contrast to the heavily oaked companion Syrahs from Bergevin Lane, the Oui Deux puts the fruit up front. Spicy and sharp-toned, it was co-fermented with 5% Viognier, and for all practical terms is a Stonetree Vineyard bottling. It should continue to improve nicely with a couple more years of bottle age.	88	32	Washington	Syrah
119,645	Italy	Aromas of new leather, ripe dark berry, vineyard dust and a whiff of smoky flint waft out of the glass along with floral and balsamic notes. The full-bodied palate shows great energy and intensity, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, ripe cranberry, white pepper and clove framed in youthfully assertive, refined tannins and bright acidity. A mineral note wraps up the lingering finish. With time, this will develop even greater complexity. Drink 2023–2053.	97	97	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
40,370	US	A vibrant minerality consumes the aromas on this bottling from an extremely coastal vineyard. On the palate, strawberry and sagebrush flavors emerge, all couched in a clean, crisp and refreshing acidity with appropriate bitterness as well. Ready to drink now.	91	38	California	Pinot Noir
74,784	US	Pleasant and straightforward, with light fruit flavors of citrus and white peach. It's simple, slightly dilute, with an awkward resolution.	85	20	Washington	Viognier
92,935	US	Earthy and leathery, this medium-bodied, ripe varietal wine dabbles in vanilla, blueberry and coffee cake aromas and flavors, finishing with a welcome softness.	88	32	California	Petite Sirah
55,057	Italy	Charred earth, toast, underbrush and roasted nut aromas come together on this. The palate shows the heat of the vintage, offering raisin and clove alongside close-grained tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.	87	22	Veneto	Red Blend
72,132	Spain	Yeast, scrambled egg, apple and lime aromas are elevated and improve with airing. On the palate, this is minerally and pure. Apple, briny citrus, persimmon and salt flavors finish tight, linear and briny in flavor, with an echo of sea salt.	90	36	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
95,635	US	Principally Cabernet Franc, it's tight and reductive, with a tarry note. In the mouth it is surprisingly soft, almost silky, offering plummy fruit flavors that seem to be quickly maturing. Drink soon.	86	15	Washington	Red Blend
57,420	Italy	Emilio Bulfon delivers a portfolio of wines that are intensely aromatic and thickly concentrated, to the point of being syrupy and viscous. Off-gold in color, this white blend bares aromas of apricot, Thai peanut sauce and toasted almond.	88	22	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
34,232	US	This is an easy, gentle wine to drink now. It's softly tannic and dry, with cherry, red currant and cocoa flavors. Shows enough complexity to warrant pairing with an upscale steak.	88	50	California	Cabernet Franc
18,677	US	Easily the best MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir ever. Shows impressive depth and complexity, with rich flavors of cherries, red currants, cola, pomegranates, persimmons and smoky sandalwood, finished with tangy Asian spices. Tastes a bit jammy, suggesting a few years in the bottle.	92	60	California	Pinot Noir
58,838	US	This wine over-delivers in quality for the price. It's made from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with handfuls of Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc blended in to good effect. The whole combines into layers of chocolate and graham cracker, dappled in vanilla and jam. Thick tannins suggest a swirl or two of the glass. The finish is all tobacco.	91	28	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
87,542	US	This is an elegant Syrah, blended with 18% Mourvèdre and topped with a splash of Grenache. Good phenolic ripeness along with substantial sugars lead into flavors that have melded nicely. Berry, truffle, chocolate, leather, pepper and coffee are all in the mix, and the mid-palate is delicious. Only a fairly quick fade keeps the score from climbing even higher.	91	28	Washington	Syrah
126,597	US	Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up the majority of this blend. The aromas of dried herbs, pencil lead, cherry and spice are subdued while the palate brings a somewhat elegant style, with the tannins seeming a bit bunched up.	88	27	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
29,226	US	Whole-cluster fermented, this wine offers complexities of baked plum, raspberry and truffled earth. Generous in oak and structure, it also flashes lavender, rose and black licorice around a core of meaty game. Smooth on the palate, enjoy this wine through 2027.	92	52	California	Pinot Noir
94,299	US	This lightly crafted, affordable red blends in smaller percentages of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah. It works as a soft, approachable and rounded experience of moderately tannic black cherry and cola, with a streak of black pepper, graphite and cedar mixed within.	88	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
3,419	US	Aromas of blueberries, beef roast and fudge give way to a light, straightforward palate of purple fruit. It's a clean wine, but not very complex.	86	40	California	Zinfandel
86,765	France	This austere wine offers some firm tannins over the red fruit. It has acidity, red-currant fruit and a core of dryness, typical of young Pommard, that suggests it will age well. Drink from 2020.	92	130	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
57,408	France	A soft and rounded wine, full of ripe fruits that command all the attention. Red fruits dominate, just supported by tannins and a firm dryness. This is a rich wine that will age quickly, worth drinking in the next two years.	88	35	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
59,585	US	Young, tannic and acidic now, this is a gritty wine not offering lots of pleasure because of the toughness, despite some very rich blackberry, black currant, mineral and cedar flavors. You'll want to cellar it for four or five years. Its future beyond that is a question mark.	87	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
1,475	Italy	Opens with a pretty shade of gold that denotes more sophisticated extraction and in fact that impression is carried through to the nose and mouth where the wine exhibits ripe fruity aromas, honey, almond skin, dried herbs and natural rubber. The mouthfeel is thin, but remains a step above the commercial Pinot Grigio that is so commonly available. The wine is packaged with a real vine clipping around the bottle neck.	86	15	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
89,420	Italy	Earthy aromas suggest tilled soil, leather, prune, balsam and dried cherries marinated in spirits. The palate offers ripe black cherry accented with sensations of white pepper, cinnamon, fig, black tea and a hint of chocolate. It has assertive but polished tannins and nice depth, but it already seems fully developed. Drink 2015–2023.	90	85	Tuscany	Sangiovese
108,901	Italy	Talc powder and white pepper appear at first and the bouquet opens to include additional layers of citrus and stone fruit. The perlage is sharp and toned.	85	15	Veneto	Glera
48,177	France	From a parcel of vines in the Meursault village appellation, this attractive, soft wine has ripe grapefruit and pear flavors to go with the crisp acidity and the lightest touch of wood. Drink from 2015.	90	55	Burgundy	Chardonnay
107,649	US	Dark in color and meaty, this stainless-steel-fermented wine is made from Pinot Gris grapes from the Rocky Hill Vineyard and Pinot Noir grapes from Gold Rock Vineyard. Together, they offer a crisp interpretation of strawberry, watermelon and peach, finishing light and bright.	90	28	California	Rosé
90,016	US	This is a new offering for Columbia Crest's Grand Estates lineup. Fresh fruit flavors emphasize lemon, lime and pineapple, backed with moderate acidity. A nice spicy lift informs the finish. Light and lively.	87	12	Washington	Chardonnay
53,434	US	This excellent Syrah captures much of the depth and complexity of higher priced bottles. Boysenberry fruit provides a concentrated core of flavor and rings of licorice, earth, coffee, smoke and vanilla circle through the lingering finish. Tannins are a bit on the crunchy side.	90	24	Washington	Syrah
74,945	US	A new wine for this winery, this is all varietal and aged in neutral French oak. Notes of pineapple and papaya are followed by full-bodied, rounded, sweet tropical flavors that linger.	88	18	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
117,558	US	A lightly volatile tilt to this wine provides some distraction from its aromas and flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, leather and dates. The juicy dark fruit, abundant vanilla flavors and tart acidity provide a counterpoint.	88	38	Washington	Malbec
93,883	Germany	Enticing, with notes of candle wax, spice and zesty lemon, this off-dry blend of Müller-Thurgau and Riesling is deeply concentrated with white peach and apricot flavors. It's weighty and rich in feel, with streaks of mineral that add delicate complexity to the finish.	88	10	Mosel	White Blend
121,001	Italy	Made entirely with Sangiovese, this stunning elegant wine is initially closed but then blooms in the glass to reveal red berry, iron, blue flower, underbrush and dark spice. The focused, radiant palate delivers bright cherry, star anise, white pepper and mineral alongside vibrant acidity and polished tannins. A hint of orange zest graces the lingering finish. Hold for more complexity. Drink 2018–2028.	95	70	Tuscany	Sangiovese
43,216	US	The Toreador bottling represents the best Zin winemaker Eric Cinnamon can make from the vineyard. So far, it's been a complex, ageworthy wine, and the '05 continues that tradition. Despite high alcohol, the wine is balanced, with firm tannins framing flavors of dried cherries and blackberries, pomegranates, red currants, leather, dark chocolate, briary nettles and smoke. It will happily take a decade of bottle age.	92	60	California	Zinfandel
85,565	US	For its bold footprint (and the amount of wood aging it went through) this rich Zinfandel offers a depth of pleasant berry flavor and a measured texture, with a savory edge on the finish.	87	32	California	Zinfandel
81,037	US	Expensive, but aims for a Zinfandel touchdown and largely succeeds. With firm tannins and acids, it has explosive flavors of wild forest berries, currants, spices and oak that are complex enough to warrant a second, maybe even a third glass.	90	42	California	Zinfandel
94,883	France	Full of the fresh acidity of the 2014 vintage, this light, bright wine has refreshing lemon and crisp apple flavors that are given richness by the lively acidity. Bursting with fruit, it is ready to drink now.	87	25	Burgundy	Chardonnay
26,205	Italy	Aromas of ripe blackberry, anisette, black pepper and scorched earth lead the nose. On the tight palate, notes of licorice, espresso, leather and clove accent a core of dried black cherry and fig.	88	320	Sicily & Sardinia	Red Blend
30,110	France	This wine comes from the vineyard that sits at the pinnacle of Chardonnay in Burgundy. It is majestic and opulent, a powerful wine full of deeply concentrated fruit as well as the ineffable acidity of the vintage. It is structured, tensely mineral and demands long aging. Drink this beautiful wine from 2023.	97	886	Burgundy	Chardonnay
109,907	Italy	Made with 100% late-harvested Syrah, this opens with subdued aromas of blackberry jam, cedar, ground pepper and a smoky note. On the moderately sweet palate, nutmeg accentuates both dried prune and fig.	89	30	Sicily & Sardinia	Syrah
98,289	Portugal	This structured wine is balanced with great fruit, firm tannins and ripe berry flavors. Drink this impressive wine from 2019.	91	20	Douro	Portuguese Red
124,806	US	This is a very ripe, forward wine, saturated in cherries, blackberries, currants and oak. It has Malbec's characteristically sturdy tannins and could use some protein and fat, a grilled steak, perhaps, to play against it.	88	35	California	Malbec
64,137	Italy	There's a slight coppery tinge to this wine's color, which sets it apart from the vast majority of other Grigios on the market. And maybe it's just the suggestion of the hue, but it seems to taste "pink" as well, showcasing ripe berries and appples backed by tangy acids and great length. Classy stuff.	90	24	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
111,346	France	From a small estate, this big, ripe and fruity wine has swathes of black fruits to go with the dark, brooding tannins. Very broad and fruity, the wine is always likely to be structured. Drink from 2017.	91	25	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
124,420	France	Powerful and structured, this offers both the weight and the potential for rich fruit. Dominated at this stage by tannins and wood-influenced flavors, the black plum note is likely to come through in the next year. The acidity is crisp, and a bitter cherry character flavors the finish.	90	17	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
62,250	US	The winery used to make an indifferent Pinot Noir from Carneros, but now they have some good fruit, and the improvement shows. The wine is delightful, with crisp acidity brightening very ripe flavors of raspberries, cola and black cherries, with lots of smoky oak. Drink this complex wine now and for the next few years. .	90	40	California	Pinot Noir
100,087	US	Using grapes sourced from the excellent Stillwater Creek Vineyard, this is a ripe—to the point of being pruny—yet acidic red wine. The unsettled mix of raisiny fruit and chalky acids may or may not shake out with further bottle age.	85	35	Washington	Malbec
119,303	Italy	Fresh and bright, this has lasting aromas of stone fruit, lime and white flower. The mouthfeel is creamy and soft thanks to the foamy quality of bubbles.	87	12	Veneto	Glera
98,017	US	Strawberry and thyme show strongly on the nose of this bottling, as does a slate minerality and violet florality. It's soft and lush on the palate with dried strawberry, plum, black raspberry and a vanilla richness, but the wet-slate earthiness shines throughout.	91	56	California	Pinot Noir
124,888	France	The golden hue promises flavors of development. A clearly advanced nose brims with notes of dark, bitter fir honey, chalky stone and dried currant fruit, while the palate holds honey, stone and bright, sprightly citrus. The poles of Pinot Gris richness and Alsace acidity are brought to a wonderful counterpoint. It finishes rich with lemon freshness, gingerbread and bitter almond.	93	66	Alsace	Pinot Gris
4,280	US	A red table wine (RTW) combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this is stewy, dry and tannic, still puckering from two years spent in French oak. Let it open before settling in.	85	49	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
12,272	US	Good color, tight, firm fruit, with some heft to it. There's cassis as well as cherry, and the wine has the weight of a Sonoma Zin, with good acids to give it lift. This is the first estate bottling from this exciting new winery. Unfortunately, just 28 cases made.	90	21	California	Zinfandel
126,145	France	A bright, herbaceous wine that is full of citrus and grapefruit flavors. These go with a tangy character, crisp and hinting at black currants and more tropical fruit.	84	15	Bordeaux	Sauvignon Blanc
108,736	France	On the lean side, with a layered concentrated wood structure. The wine has weight along with dryness, although the fruit is harder to discern.	89	32	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
44,970	US	A Grenache blended with small amounts of Mourvèdre and Syrah, this may need more time in bottle to truly reveal itself. But for now, its herbal characteristics overpower the hidden notes of blueberry and vanilla trying to get out.	85	25	California	Grenache
81,910	France	A fine, elegant wine, with balanced toast and acidity, great ripe apricot flavors along with spice from the toast, acidity, citrus and a hint of ginger. Still very young, this pure fruited wine could age over 6–10 years.	95	260	Burgundy	Chardonnay
52,471	Italy	Shapely and balanced, this bright Brunello shows a clean style that is reinforced by pristine aromas of forest fruit, cranberry, white cherry, cola, ginger and a spicy touch of ground white pepper. Bright acidity creates a cooling sensation in the mouth and would pair well with creamy or cheesy pasta dishes.	90	70	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
30,249	France	A very herbaceous Sauvignon aroma, crisp and fresh with pink grapefruit and lemon grass flavors on top of a bright squeeze of lime. There is a final touch of pear juice acidity.	86	13	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
110,731	Italy	This luminous, ruby-red blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Ciliegiolo and 5% Alicante starts with intense aromas of forest floor, underbrush, berry and tobacco. Lively, juicy fruit flavors are accented with mint, black pepper and thyme accompanied by bracing tannins. Give this a couple of more years to come around. Vos Selections, Tosco Wine.	89	32	Tuscany	Red Blend
24,915	US	Beautifully fragrant of sweet black cherry and violet, this intensely fruity yet earthy wine is a standout within the Heart & Hands collection. Richly textured, it finishes with hints of spice, dried leaf and lingering, gentle tannins.	87	30	New York	Pinot Noir
115,602	US	Blueberry, dark berries and tar swirl together on the nose of this hedonistic wine from Mike Sinor's Bassi Ranch property, located just 1.3 miles from the ocean at Shell Beach. It's rich, meaty and heavily spiced on the palate, with dark chocolate, cedar and plenty of blackberry, but the bitter and savory elements stop it short of being a fruit bomb.	92	29	California	Syrah
124,329	US	Lane Tanner makes sexy wines. You're not supposed to say so, but there it is. This wine brings to mind silk and velvet. Something about it shimmers. It's also delicious, so full of opulent berry fruit you want to swirl it around your mouth forever before you swallow. Fortunately, you can always take another sip. Editors' Choice.	91	28	California	Pinot Noir
123,220	US	The appellation continues to impress with this variety, well showcased by this producer. White flowers and waxy apple form its character foremost, followed by lemon peel and zest. A dry, salty finish makes for a conclusively satisfying end.	90	14	California	Sauvignon Blanc
45,603	US	A mineral layering of waxy pear gives this wine a light, crisp complexion, punctuated by subtle, oaky spice and plenty of vibrant lemon. Light on the palate, it'll serve well for larger gatherings.	87	25	California	Chardonnay
26,350	Italy	This blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon offers excellent fruit and shapely oak tones of spice, chocolate and sweet tobacco.	90	35	Tuscany	Red Blend
49,866	US	This 100% Sauvignon Blanc has just a touch of oak, which brings a subtle toastiness to the citrus, peach and green apple fruit flavors. It's bone dry, yet shows an exciting balance between green gooseberries and honey flavors.	88	24	California	Sauvignon Blanc
33,677	Australia	This seems a bit oaky on the nose, where scents of baking spices and cedar dominate, but those elements are balanced out on the palate, where blackberries, plums and black currants comes to the fore. This is a full-bodied, ripe-textured wine worth a look. Drink now–2025.	90	30	South Australia	Cabernet Sauvignon
112,590	US	This is a very good Pinot Noir that shows how well the appellation can balance the variety. It has lush cherry, blackberry, tea, cola and cocoa flavors, and a rich, silky texture. Could develop bottle complexity over the next six years.	88	25	California	Pinot Noir
102,907	US	It's nice to find a smooth, full-bodied Cab that's not too tart or tannic, and has enough pleasant, plummy flavors to pair well with burgers, burritos or fried chicken. The flavors have an almost sweet touch of oak, especially on the finish.	86	13	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
103,294	US	A nice Pinot Noir to drink now. It's bone dry and somewhat austere, showing only modest cherry, pomegranate and cola flavors that are marked by rich tannins and zesty acidity. But it's very elegant.	87	21	California	Pinot Noir
61,892	US	Paso Robles-based Alma Sol reaches into Napa Valley for its Cabernet, with good results. The wine is dry, full-bodied and smooth, with rich flavors of blackberries, currants, dark chocolate and spices. Nice now, after a good decanting, and it should develop bottle complexities over 5–6 years.	90	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
67,608	Italy	This shows notes of prune and chocolate, but not much complexity or finesse. It has delicious fruit and an approachable palate, but it's a bit one dimensional.	87	80	Veneto	Red Blend
83,245	France	This is a rich wine, full of juicy fruit and attractive acidity. A blend of 95% Malbec and 5% Merlot, it has touches of wood aging along with the tannins. It will develop quickly, so drink from 2018.	88	22	Bordeaux	Malbec
107,494	US	Bright, crisp red cherry and blackberry flavors drive a refreshing, fruity personality. Touches of nutmeg and vanilla show through, but this is not an oaky wine by any means. It will please a crowd and pair well with a wide variety of foods.	87	40	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
45,250	US	Aromas of cigar box, green herb, asphalt and cherry are followed by sweet fruit flavors that display a very pretty sense of styling. It doesn't quite all come together but delivers plenty of intrigue, showing a fine sense of elegance.	89	50	Washington	Cabernet Franc
89,791	Italy	Underbrush, grilled porcini, red berry and grilled herb aromas lead the way. The bracing palate offers dried wild cherry, clove, cinnamon and powdered sage alongside astringent tannins. Drink after 2018.	89	50	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
114,069	US	There's an earthy, rustic quality to this soft red Bordeaux blend that veers into overripe, syrupy qualities on the palate, giving it a heaviness that seems to defy its cooler appellation.	85	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
44,508	US	This medium-bodied, affordably priced wine offers a wealth of juicy red fruit with soft layers of tannin. It was aged in unobtrusive oak, 25% of it new.	88	35	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
114,948	US	Sure is easy to like this Chardonnay, with its rich flavors of honey, pineapples, peaches, crême brulée, vanilla and cinnamon spice. It seems almost sweet, but zesty acidity and minerality pull it back into dryness and elegance.	90	42	California	Chardonnay
37,936	US	This new winery knocks it out of the park with a terrific Tempranillo that includes smaller amounts of Cabernet and Merlot. The black cherry fruit is accented with rose water and cut tobacco, and the characteristic acidity of Tempranillo lends the flavors a further boost.	91	36	Washington	Tempranillo
29,339	US	). Very good wine from a winery increasingly known for its red varieties, and one of the best Cabernets ever to hail from this appellation. It shows a dry, distinguished tannin structure and the concentration of flavors typical of this warm, low-yielding region, with black currant intensity. Give it a decant and drink over the next six years.	92	47	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
94,295	US	Dark hibiscus, deep red cherry and rare roast beef show on the nose of this wine from Malibu that is fragrant but fairly light in aromas. Pencil shavings, baked blackberry and a touch of clove show on the sip, which is juicy and interesting.	88	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
119,939	US	This is pure Syrah, ripened to a heady 15.3% abv, yet still balanced and offering classic aromas of black fruits, espresso and roasted meats. It's a barbeque in a glass, with a smoky, lightly charred base and ample, rich, ripe fruit flavors. Drink over the next 3–5 years.	91	28	Washington	Syrah
101,894	France	Showing richness, this wine is smooth and well balanced between ripe red berry fruits and generous tannins. The wood aging shows in a slight burnt edge, but this will pass as the wine develops. Drink from 2016.	91	74	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
79,997	Germany	Zesty lemon and lime aromas add elegance to unctuous white peach and apricot flavors on this delicate, yet remarkably complex wine. Off-dry in style, it balances a youthful fruit profile with nuanced shades of smoke and earth. Nervy citrus acidity drives a long, focused finish.	91	19	Mosel	Riesling
85,482	US	Distinct aromas of sour plum and dried pomegranate meet with damp tobacco, forest floor, green olive and Greek spice on the nose of this clonal study. It's herbal on the palate, with oregano, marjoram and green cardamom notes, alongside cranberry and red cherry fruit in the midpalate. Altogether, it's a light, bright and highly seasoned wine.	92	55	California	Pinot Noir
36,938	US	This wine is a blend from several of the producer's higher-elevation estate vineyards in the appellation. Floral and inviting in sugar apple, caramel crème brûlée and complex spice and salt seasonings, it's plush and voluptuous, with supportive acidity and a crushed stone minerality.	94	40	California	Chardonnay
2,743	Spain	Straightforward red-fruit aromas suggest cherry and plum. Rubbery, pinching tannins are the adhesive for this punchy young Rioja that tastes of raspberry and cherry and finishes steady.	86	13	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
31,688	US	The blend is Zinfandel, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is dry and full bodied. It conveys earthy flavors of blackberries, herbs and not-quite-ripe vegetables.	82	16	California	Red Blend
34,660	Germany	Dramatically ripe, this delicately framed spätlese is a showcase of pristine, sunny peach and Meyer lemon flavors accented by caramel and crystallized honey. It's nuanced as well, darting with acidity and touches of sea salt and slate that persist.	93	33	Mosel	Riesling
99,337	US	Full and plush on the palate, this wine shines in spicy red and black cherry, offering both a juicy core and sculpted texture. Finishing long, it retains a freshness of acidity, fine tannin and seamless oak. A dark, earthy expression of the grape with a twist of spice.	95	82	California	Pinot Noir
24,231	France	Along with weight and richness, this wine also has a lively fresh, red fruit character. Caramel and ripe berries are shot through with acidity to give a warm, yet bright wine.	90	30	Provence	Rosé
81,574	US	Monolith is a Bordeaux-style blend, 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 100% new French oak barrels. Tart cherry flavor is layered with barrel spices and an impression of malt powder. The finishing tannins are quite astringent and chalky, suggesting that further bottle age is needed for optimal enjoyment.	89	34	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
103,470	France	Notes of earth mix with notes of leafy apple on the nose, the dry, fresh palate continues in that earthy vein and finishes dry with a bruised apple flavor.	88	34	Alsace	Riesling
129,968	France	Well-drained gravel soil gives this wine its crisp and dry character. It is ripe and fruity, although the spice is subdued in favor of a more serious structure. This is a wine to age for a couple of years, so drink from 2017.	90	30	Alsace	Gewürztraminer

45,179

US

Here's a smooth, polished and rewarding Cabernet Sauvignon. It shows the structure and finesse you expect from Napa Valley, and is not one of those modern fruit bombs despite rich flavors of blackberries, currants and cassis. Good now and through 2010, at least.

90

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

68,761

US

Zesty lime-skin notes lend elegance to this lavishly floral, fruity saprkling Chardonnay. It's brisk and clean on the palate, with startling citrus acidity that cuts through a thick, heavy mousse.

88

60

New York

Chardonnay

82,890

US

Shows good Chardonnay character, with pleasant citrus and tropical fruit, buttered toast and vanilla flavors. The acidity is fine, but it's watery, lacking depth and fullness. Disappointing from this producer.

85

30

California

Chardonnay

95,089

US

Deliciously soft and flavorful now, with all sorts of ripe primary fruit and new oak influences that are almost candied in their richness. Raspberries, cherries, orange zest, licorice, bacon, cinnamon, vanilla and sweet smoky sandalwood flood the mouth, firmed up with fine tannins. Best now–2012.

90

48

California

Pinot Noir

70,379

France

Baked red currant and apple notes create a very appetizing nose. Their tart fruitiness mingles beautifully with the shortbread notes on the dry, refreshing palate and makes this almost impossible to put down. The finish is wonderfully clean and refreshing.

89

15

Alsace

Pinot Noir

9,238

US

This wine opens with the fresh liveliness of stemmy earth and black tea notes, growing funkier and more herbal on the midpalate. Brightly layered and deeply flavored, it's a full-bodied rendition that remains true to its variety.

91

35

California

Pinot Noir

34,613

US

This delivers the best of both worlds for this aromatic grape. Crispy cut-grass notes blossom into tropical pineapple guava and green papaya. A laser focus of lime on the palate subsequently opens toward green pears, freshly cut oregano and dill, and an apple skin-driven bitterness.

91

24

California

Sauvignon Blanc

122,705

US

In sharp contrast to the heavily oaked companion Syrahs from Bergevin Lane, the Oui Deux puts the fruit up front. Spicy and sharp-toned, it was co-fermented with 5% Viognier, and for all practical terms is a Stonetree Vineyard bottling. It should continue to improve nicely with a couple more years of bottle age.

88

32

Washington

Syrah

119,645

Italy

Aromas of new leather, ripe dark berry, vineyard dust and a whiff of smoky flint waft out of the glass along with floral and balsamic notes. The full-bodied palate shows great energy and intensity, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, ripe cranberry, white pepper and clove framed in youthfully assertive, refined tannins and bright acidity. A mineral note wraps up the lingering finish. With time, this will develop even greater complexity. Drink 2023–2053.

97

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

40,370

US

A vibrant minerality consumes the aromas on this bottling from an extremely coastal vineyard. On the palate, strawberry and sagebrush flavors emerge, all couched in a clean, crisp and refreshing acidity with appropriate bitterness as well. Ready to drink now.

91

38

California

Pinot Noir

74,784

US

Pleasant and straightforward, with light fruit flavors of citrus and white peach. It's simple, slightly dilute, with an awkward resolution.

85

20

Washington

Viognier

92,935

US

Earthy and leathery, this medium-bodied, ripe varietal wine dabbles in vanilla, blueberry and coffee cake aromas and flavors, finishing with a welcome softness.

88

32

California

Petite Sirah

55,057

Italy

Charred earth, toast, underbrush and roasted nut aromas come together on this. The palate shows the heat of the vintage, offering raisin and clove alongside close-grained tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.

87

22

Veneto

Red Blend

72,132

Spain

Yeast, scrambled egg, apple and lime aromas are elevated and improve with airing. On the palate, this is minerally and pure. Apple, briny citrus, persimmon and salt flavors finish tight, linear and briny in flavor, with an echo of sea salt.

90

36

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

95,635

US

Principally Cabernet Franc, it's tight and reductive, with a tarry note. In the mouth it is surprisingly soft, almost silky, offering plummy fruit flavors that seem to be quickly maturing. Drink soon.

86

15

Washington

Red Blend

57,420

Italy

Emilio Bulfon delivers a portfolio of wines that are intensely aromatic and thickly concentrated, to the point of being syrupy and viscous. Off-gold in color, this white blend bares aromas of apricot, Thai peanut sauce and toasted almond.

88

22

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

34,232

US

This is an easy, gentle wine to drink now. It's softly tannic and dry, with cherry, red currant and cocoa flavors. Shows enough complexity to warrant pairing with an upscale steak.

88

50

California

Cabernet Franc

18,677

US

Easily the best MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir ever. Shows impressive depth and complexity, with rich flavors of cherries, red currants, cola, pomegranates, persimmons and smoky sandalwood, finished with tangy Asian spices. Tastes a bit jammy, suggesting a few years in the bottle.

92

60

California

Pinot Noir

58,838

US

This wine over-delivers in quality for the price. It's made from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with handfuls of Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc blended in to good effect. The whole combines into layers of chocolate and graham cracker, dappled in vanilla and jam. Thick tannins suggest a swirl or two of the glass. The finish is all tobacco.

91

28

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

87,542

US

This is an elegant Syrah, blended with 18% Mourvèdre and topped with a splash of Grenache. Good phenolic ripeness along with substantial sugars lead into flavors that have melded nicely. Berry, truffle, chocolate, leather, pepper and coffee are all in the mix, and the mid-palate is delicious. Only a fairly quick fade keeps the score from climbing even higher.

91

28

Washington

Syrah

126,597

US

Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up the majority of this blend. The aromas of dried herbs, pencil lead, cherry and spice are subdued while the palate brings a somewhat elegant style, with the tannins seeming a bit bunched up.

88

27

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

29,226

US

Whole-cluster fermented, this wine offers complexities of baked plum, raspberry and truffled earth. Generous in oak and structure, it also flashes lavender, rose and black licorice around a core of meaty game. Smooth on the palate, enjoy this wine through 2027.

92

52

California

Pinot Noir

94,299

US

This lightly crafted, affordable red blends in smaller percentages of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah. It works as a soft, approachable and rounded experience of moderately tannic black cherry and cola, with a streak of black pepper, graphite and cedar mixed within.

88

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

3,419

US

Aromas of blueberries, beef roast and fudge give way to a light, straightforward palate of purple fruit. It's a clean wine, but not very complex.

86

40

California

Zinfandel

86,765

France

This austere wine offers some firm tannins over the red fruit. It has acidity, red-currant fruit and a core of dryness, typical of young Pommard, that suggests it will age well. Drink from 2020.

92

130

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

57,408

France

A soft and rounded wine, full of ripe fruits that command all the attention. Red fruits dominate, just supported by tannins and a firm dryness. This is a rich wine that will age quickly, worth drinking in the next two years.

88

35

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

59,585

US

Young, tannic and acidic now, this is a gritty wine not offering lots of pleasure because of the toughness, despite some very rich blackberry, black currant, mineral and cedar flavors. You'll want to cellar it for four or five years. Its future beyond that is a question mark.

87

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

1,475

Italy

Opens with a pretty shade of gold that denotes more sophisticated extraction and in fact that impression is carried through to the nose and mouth where the wine exhibits ripe fruity aromas, honey, almond skin, dried herbs and natural rubber. The mouthfeel is thin, but remains a step above the commercial Pinot Grigio that is so commonly available. The wine is packaged with a real vine clipping around the bottle neck.

86

15

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

89,420

Italy

Earthy aromas suggest tilled soil, leather, prune, balsam and dried cherries marinated in spirits. The palate offers ripe black cherry accented with sensations of white pepper, cinnamon, fig, black tea and a hint of chocolate. It has assertive but polished tannins and nice depth, but it already seems fully developed. Drink 2015–2023.

90

85

Tuscany

Sangiovese

108,901

Italy

Talc powder and white pepper appear at first and the bouquet opens to include additional layers of citrus and stone fruit. The perlage is sharp and toned.

85

15

Veneto

Glera

48,177

France

From a parcel of vines in the Meursault village appellation, this attractive, soft wine has ripe grapefruit and pear flavors to go with the crisp acidity and the lightest touch of wood. Drink from 2015.

90

55

Burgundy

Chardonnay

107,649

US

Dark in color and meaty, this stainless-steel-fermented wine is made from Pinot Gris grapes from the Rocky Hill Vineyard and Pinot Noir grapes from Gold Rock Vineyard. Together, they offer a crisp interpretation of strawberry, watermelon and peach, finishing light and bright.

90

28

California

Rosé

90,016

US

This is a new offering for Columbia Crest's Grand Estates lineup. Fresh fruit flavors emphasize lemon, lime and pineapple, backed with moderate acidity. A nice spicy lift informs the finish. Light and lively.

87

12

Washington

Chardonnay

53,434

US

This excellent Syrah captures much of the depth and complexity of higher priced bottles. Boysenberry fruit provides a concentrated core of flavor and rings of licorice, earth, coffee, smoke and vanilla circle through the lingering finish. Tannins are a bit on the crunchy side.

90

24

Washington

Syrah

74,945

US

A new wine for this winery, this is all varietal and aged in neutral French oak. Notes of pineapple and papaya are followed by full-bodied, rounded, sweet tropical flavors that linger.

88

18

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

117,558

US

A lightly volatile tilt to this wine provides some distraction from its aromas and flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, leather and dates. The juicy dark fruit, abundant vanilla flavors and tart acidity provide a counterpoint.

88

38

Washington

Malbec

93,883

Germany

Enticing, with notes of candle wax, spice and zesty lemon, this off-dry blend of Müller-Thurgau and Riesling is deeply concentrated with white peach and apricot flavors. It's weighty and rich in feel, with streaks of mineral that add delicate complexity to the finish.

88

10

Mosel

White Blend

121,001

Italy

Made entirely with Sangiovese, this stunning elegant wine is initially closed but then blooms in the glass to reveal red berry, iron, blue flower, underbrush and dark spice. The focused, radiant palate delivers bright cherry, star anise, white pepper and mineral alongside vibrant acidity and polished tannins. A hint of orange zest graces the lingering finish. Hold for more complexity. Drink 2018–2028.

95

70

Tuscany

Sangiovese

43,216

US

The Toreador bottling represents the best Zin winemaker Eric Cinnamon can make from the vineyard. So far, it's been a complex, ageworthy wine, and the '05 continues that tradition. Despite high alcohol, the wine is balanced, with firm tannins framing flavors of dried cherries and blackberries, pomegranates, red currants, leather, dark chocolate, briary nettles and smoke. It will happily take a decade of bottle age.

92

60

California

Zinfandel

85,565

US

For its bold footprint (and the amount of wood aging it went through) this rich Zinfandel offers a depth of pleasant berry flavor and a measured texture, with a savory edge on the finish.

87

32

California

Zinfandel

81,037

US

Expensive, but aims for a Zinfandel touchdown and largely succeeds. With firm tannins and acids, it has explosive flavors of wild forest berries, currants, spices and oak that are complex enough to warrant a second, maybe even a third glass.

90

42

California

Zinfandel

94,883

France

Full of the fresh acidity of the 2014 vintage, this light, bright wine has refreshing lemon and crisp apple flavors that are given richness by the lively acidity. Bursting with fruit, it is ready to drink now.

87

25

Burgundy

Chardonnay

26,205

Italy

Aromas of ripe blackberry, anisette, black pepper and scorched earth lead the nose. On the tight palate, notes of licorice, espresso, leather and clove accent a core of dried black cherry and fig.

88

320

Sicily & Sardinia

Red Blend

30,110

France

This wine comes from the vineyard that sits at the pinnacle of Chardonnay in Burgundy. It is majestic and opulent, a powerful wine full of deeply concentrated fruit as well as the ineffable acidity of the vintage. It is structured, tensely mineral and demands long aging. Drink this beautiful wine from 2023.

97

886

Burgundy

Chardonnay

109,907

Italy

Made with 100% late-harvested Syrah, this opens with subdued aromas of blackberry jam, cedar, ground pepper and a smoky note. On the moderately sweet palate, nutmeg accentuates both dried prune and fig.

89

30

Sicily & Sardinia

Syrah

98,289

Portugal

This structured wine is balanced with great fruit, firm tannins and ripe berry flavors. Drink this impressive wine from 2019.

91

20

Douro

Portuguese Red

124,806

US

This is a very ripe, forward wine, saturated in cherries, blackberries, currants and oak. It has Malbec's characteristically sturdy tannins and could use some protein and fat, a grilled steak, perhaps, to play against it.

88

35

California

Malbec

64,137

Italy

There's a slight coppery tinge to this wine's color, which sets it apart from the vast majority of other Grigios on the market. And maybe it's just the suggestion of the hue, but it seems to taste "pink" as well, showcasing ripe berries and appples backed by tangy acids and great length. Classy stuff.

90

24

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

111,346

France

From a small estate, this big, ripe and fruity wine has swathes of black fruits to go with the dark, brooding tannins. Very broad and fruity, the wine is always likely to be structured. Drink from 2017.

91

25

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

124,420

France

Powerful and structured, this offers both the weight and the potential for rich fruit. Dominated at this stage by tannins and wood-influenced flavors, the black plum note is likely to come through in the next year. The acidity is crisp, and a bitter cherry character flavors the finish.

90

17

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

62,250

US

The winery used to make an indifferent Pinot Noir from Carneros, but now they have some good fruit, and the improvement shows. The wine is delightful, with crisp acidity brightening very ripe flavors of raspberries, cola and black cherries, with lots of smoky oak. Drink this complex wine now and for the next few years. .

90

40

California

Pinot Noir

100,087

US

Using grapes sourced from the excellent Stillwater Creek Vineyard, this is a ripe—to the point of being pruny—yet acidic red wine. The unsettled mix of raisiny fruit and chalky acids may or may not shake out with further bottle age.

85

35

Washington

Malbec

119,303

Italy

Fresh and bright, this has lasting aromas of stone fruit, lime and white flower. The mouthfeel is creamy and soft thanks to the foamy quality of bubbles.

87

12

Veneto

Glera

98,017

US

Strawberry and thyme show strongly on the nose of this bottling, as does a slate minerality and violet florality. It's soft and lush on the palate with dried strawberry, plum, black raspberry and a vanilla richness, but the wet-slate earthiness shines throughout.

91

56

California

Pinot Noir

124,888

France

The golden hue promises flavors of development. A clearly advanced nose brims with notes of dark, bitter fir honey, chalky stone and dried currant fruit, while the palate holds honey, stone and bright, sprightly citrus. The poles of Pinot Gris richness and Alsace acidity are brought to a wonderful counterpoint. It finishes rich with lemon freshness, gingerbread and bitter almond.

93

66

Alsace

Pinot Gris

4,280

US

A red table wine (RTW) combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this is stewy, dry and tannic, still puckering from two years spent in French oak. Let it open before settling in.

85

49

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

12,272

US

Good color, tight, firm fruit, with some heft to it. There's cassis as well as cherry, and the wine has the weight of a Sonoma Zin, with good acids to give it lift. This is the first estate bottling from this exciting new winery. Unfortunately, just 28 cases made.

90

21

California

Zinfandel

126,145

France

A bright, herbaceous wine that is full of citrus and grapefruit flavors. These go with a tangy character, crisp and hinting at black currants and more tropical fruit.

84

15

Bordeaux

Sauvignon Blanc

108,736

France

On the lean side, with a layered concentrated wood structure. The wine has weight along with dryness, although the fruit is harder to discern.

89

32

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

44,970

US

A Grenache blended with small amounts of Mourvèdre and Syrah, this may need more time in bottle to truly reveal itself. But for now, its herbal characteristics overpower the hidden notes of blueberry and vanilla trying to get out.

85

25

California

Grenache

81,910

France

A fine, elegant wine, with balanced toast and acidity, great ripe apricot flavors along with spice from the toast, acidity, citrus and a hint of ginger. Still very young, this pure fruited wine could age over 6–10 years.

95

260

Burgundy

Chardonnay

52,471

Italy

Shapely and balanced, this bright Brunello shows a clean style that is reinforced by pristine aromas of forest fruit, cranberry, white cherry, cola, ginger and a spicy touch of ground white pepper. Bright acidity creates a cooling sensation in the mouth and would pair well with creamy or cheesy pasta dishes.

90

70

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

30,249

France

A very herbaceous Sauvignon aroma, crisp and fresh with pink grapefruit and lemon grass flavors on top of a bright squeeze of lime. There is a final touch of pear juice acidity.

86

13

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

110,731

Italy

This luminous, ruby-red blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Ciliegiolo and 5% Alicante starts with intense aromas of forest floor, underbrush, berry and tobacco. Lively, juicy fruit flavors are accented with mint, black pepper and thyme accompanied by bracing tannins. Give this a couple of more years to come around. Vos Selections, Tosco Wine.

89

32

Tuscany

Red Blend

24,915

US

Beautifully fragrant of sweet black cherry and violet, this intensely fruity yet earthy wine is a standout within the Heart & Hands collection. Richly textured, it finishes with hints of spice, dried leaf and lingering, gentle tannins.

87

30

New York

Pinot Noir

115,602

US

Blueberry, dark berries and tar swirl together on the nose of this hedonistic wine from Mike Sinor's Bassi Ranch property, located just 1.3 miles from the ocean at Shell Beach. It's rich, meaty and heavily spiced on the palate, with dark chocolate, cedar and plenty of blackberry, but the bitter and savory elements stop it short of being a fruit bomb.

92

29

California

Syrah

124,329

US

Lane Tanner makes sexy wines. You're not supposed to say so, but there it is. This wine brings to mind silk and velvet. Something about it shimmers. It's also delicious, so full of opulent berry fruit you want to swirl it around your mouth forever before you swallow. Fortunately, you can always take another sip. Editors' Choice.

91

28

California

Pinot Noir

123,220

US

The appellation continues to impress with this variety, well showcased by this producer. White flowers and waxy apple form its character foremost, followed by lemon peel and zest. A dry, salty finish makes for a conclusively satisfying end.

90

14

California

Sauvignon Blanc

45,603

US

A mineral layering of waxy pear gives this wine a light, crisp complexion, punctuated by subtle, oaky spice and plenty of vibrant lemon. Light on the palate, it'll serve well for larger gatherings.

87

25

California

Chardonnay

26,350

Italy

This blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon offers excellent fruit and shapely oak tones of spice, chocolate and sweet tobacco.

90

35

Tuscany

Red Blend

49,866

US

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc has just a touch of oak, which brings a subtle toastiness to the citrus, peach and green apple fruit flavors. It's bone dry, yet shows an exciting balance between green gooseberries and honey flavors.

88

24

California

Sauvignon Blanc

33,677

Australia

This seems a bit oaky on the nose, where scents of baking spices and cedar dominate, but those elements are balanced out on the palate, where blackberries, plums and black currants comes to the fore. This is a full-bodied, ripe-textured wine worth a look. Drink now–2025.

90

30

South Australia

Cabernet Sauvignon

112,590

US

This is a very good Pinot Noir that shows how well the appellation can balance the variety. It has lush cherry, blackberry, tea, cola and cocoa flavors, and a rich, silky texture. Could develop bottle complexity over the next six years.

88

25

California

Pinot Noir

102,907

US

It's nice to find a smooth, full-bodied Cab that's not too tart or tannic, and has enough pleasant, plummy flavors to pair well with burgers, burritos or fried chicken. The flavors have an almost sweet touch of oak, especially on the finish.

86

13

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

103,294

US

A nice Pinot Noir to drink now. It's bone dry and somewhat austere, showing only modest cherry, pomegranate and cola flavors that are marked by rich tannins and zesty acidity. But it's very elegant.

87

21

California

Pinot Noir

61,892

US

Paso Robles-based Alma Sol reaches into Napa Valley for its Cabernet, with good results. The wine is dry, full-bodied and smooth, with rich flavors of blackberries, currants, dark chocolate and spices. Nice now, after a good decanting, and it should develop bottle complexities over 5–6 years.

90

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

67,608

Italy

This shows notes of prune and chocolate, but not much complexity or finesse. It has delicious fruit and an approachable palate, but it's a bit one dimensional.

87

80

Veneto

Red Blend

83,245

France

This is a rich wine, full of juicy fruit and attractive acidity. A blend of 95% Malbec and 5% Merlot, it has touches of wood aging along with the tannins. It will develop quickly, so drink from 2018.

88

22

Bordeaux

Malbec

107,494

US

Bright, crisp red cherry and blackberry flavors drive a refreshing, fruity personality. Touches of nutmeg and vanilla show through, but this is not an oaky wine by any means. It will please a crowd and pair well with a wide variety of foods.

87

40

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

45,250

US

Aromas of cigar box, green herb, asphalt and cherry are followed by sweet fruit flavors that display a very pretty sense of styling. It doesn't quite all come together but delivers plenty of intrigue, showing a fine sense of elegance.

89

50

Washington

Cabernet Franc

89,791

Italy

Underbrush, grilled porcini, red berry and grilled herb aromas lead the way. The bracing palate offers dried wild cherry, clove, cinnamon and powdered sage alongside astringent tannins. Drink after 2018.

89

50

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

114,069

US

There's an earthy, rustic quality to this soft red Bordeaux blend that veers into overripe, syrupy qualities on the palate, giving it a heaviness that seems to defy its cooler appellation.

85

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

44,508

US

This medium-bodied, affordably priced wine offers a wealth of juicy red fruit with soft layers of tannin. It was aged in unobtrusive oak, 25% of it new.

88

35

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

114,948

US

Sure is easy to like this Chardonnay, with its rich flavors of honey, pineapples, peaches, crême brulée, vanilla and cinnamon spice. It seems almost sweet, but zesty acidity and minerality pull it back into dryness and elegance.

90

42

California

Chardonnay

37,936

US

This new winery knocks it out of the park with a terrific Tempranillo that includes smaller amounts of Cabernet and Merlot. The black cherry fruit is accented with rose water and cut tobacco, and the characteristic acidity of Tempranillo lends the flavors a further boost.

91

36

Washington

Tempranillo

29,339

US

). Very good wine from a winery increasingly known for its red varieties, and one of the best Cabernets ever to hail from this appellation. It shows a dry, distinguished tannin structure and the concentration of flavors typical of this warm, low-yielding region, with black currant intensity. Give it a decant and drink over the next six years.

92

47

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

94,295

US

Dark hibiscus, deep red cherry and rare roast beef show on the nose of this wine from Malibu that is fragrant but fairly light in aromas. Pencil shavings, baked blackberry and a touch of clove show on the sip, which is juicy and interesting.

88

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

119,939

US

This is pure Syrah, ripened to a heady 15.3% abv, yet still balanced and offering classic aromas of black fruits, espresso and roasted meats. It's a barbeque in a glass, with a smoky, lightly charred base and ample, rich, ripe fruit flavors. Drink over the next 3–5 years.

91

28

Washington

Syrah

101,894

France

Showing richness, this wine is smooth and well balanced between ripe red berry fruits and generous tannins. The wood aging shows in a slight burnt edge, but this will pass as the wine develops. Drink from 2016.

91

74

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

79,997

Germany

Zesty lemon and lime aromas add elegance to unctuous white peach and apricot flavors on this delicate, yet remarkably complex wine. Off-dry in style, it balances a youthful fruit profile with nuanced shades of smoke and earth. Nervy citrus acidity drives a long, focused finish.

91

19

Mosel

Riesling

85,482

US

Distinct aromas of sour plum and dried pomegranate meet with damp tobacco, forest floor, green olive and Greek spice on the nose of this clonal study. It's herbal on the palate, with oregano, marjoram and green cardamom notes, alongside cranberry and red cherry fruit in the midpalate. Altogether, it's a light, bright and highly seasoned wine.

92

55

California

Pinot Noir

36,938

US

This wine is a blend from several of the producer's higher-elevation estate vineyards in the appellation. Floral and inviting in sugar apple, caramel crème brûlée and complex spice and salt seasonings, it's plush and voluptuous, with supportive acidity and a crushed stone minerality.

94

40

California

Chardonnay

2,743

Spain

Straightforward red-fruit aromas suggest cherry and plum. Rubbery, pinching tannins are the adhesive for this punchy young Rioja that tastes of raspberry and cherry and finishes steady.

86

13

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

31,688

US

The blend is Zinfandel, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is dry and full bodied. It conveys earthy flavors of blackberries, herbs and not-quite-ripe vegetables.

82

16

California

Red Blend

34,660

Germany

Dramatically ripe, this delicately framed spätlese is a showcase of pristine, sunny peach and Meyer lemon flavors accented by caramel and crystallized honey. It's nuanced as well, darting with acidity and touches of sea salt and slate that persist.

93

33

Mosel

Riesling

99,337

US

Full and plush on the palate, this wine shines in spicy red and black cherry, offering both a juicy core and sculpted texture. Finishing long, it retains a freshness of acidity, fine tannin and seamless oak. A dark, earthy expression of the grape with a twist of spice.

95

82

California

Pinot Noir

24,231

France

Along with weight and richness, this wine also has a lively fresh, red fruit character. Caramel and ripe berries are shot through with acidity to give a warm, yet bright wine.

90

30

Provence

Rosé

81,574

US

Monolith is a Bordeaux-style blend, 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 100% new French oak barrels. Tart cherry flavor is layered with barrel spices and an impression of malt powder. The finishing tannins are quite astringent and chalky, suggesting that further bottle age is needed for optimal enjoyment.

89

34

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

103,470

France

Notes of earth mix with notes of leafy apple on the nose, the dry, fresh palate continues in that earthy vein and finishes dry with a bruised apple flavor.

88

34

Alsace

Riesling

129,968

France

Well-drained gravel soil gives this wine its crisp and dry character. It is ripe and fruity, although the spice is subdued in favor of a more serious structure. This is a wine to age for a couple of years, so drink from 2017.

90

30

Alsace

Gewürztraminer