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
9,036	Germany	This summery Riesling wafts of ripe yellow cherries and blossoms. Dry in style with a rich, rounded mouthfeel, it's deeply concentrated with stone fruit flavors accented by hints of waxy lemon and lime skin. It's delicious now for its fragrant, fruity exuberance, but likely to develop its waxy, mineral complexities through 2019–2021.	91	35	Mosel	Riesling
75,606	Argentina	The Oak Cask in the name is evident in the bacon, vanilla and creamy berry aromas that open things up. The palate, however, is fairly acidic, making the fruit taste bright and feel zesty. Flavors of cherry and plum are distinctly red in character, and the finish is quick and lean.	85	13	Mendoza Province	Syrah
34,961	US	A simple, jammy Zinfandel, with gentle raspberry, cherry, cola and spice flavors that finish sweet and hot in high alcohol.	83	27	California	Zinfandel
75,101	France	The wine is completely mature. With soft strawberry flavors that have melded into the rounded texture, this is a wine that has only the lightest tannins. Acidity and an attractive ripe fruit character make this a wine to enjoy now.	89	40	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
76,291	US	This wine is quite locked up at present, with barrel notes of cocoa and vanilla in front of high toned dried herbs, black cherry and dusty earth. The flavors are elegant yet rich, tart and fresh with bright acids and an extended finish. Though the wood occasionally gets a bit out front, it's a very pretty expression of the variety that needs time to fully stretch its legs. Best after 2018 or give it a long decant.	92	95	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
114,011	US	A muskiness is present on the nose of this wine from Santa Barbara County's first commercial vineyard, along with fruitier aspects of strawberry-boysenberry tart. It's fruit-forward on the palate, yet cinnamon toast and cedar give it a more serious edge as well.	92	36	California	Pinot Noir
80,539	US	The 2011 Resonance Reserve has just a bit more concentration than the elegant regular bottling. There seems to be more new barrel influence as well, offering proportioned touches of milk chocolate, nougat and caramel. All in all, this is a tasty wine with fine length and impressive detail.	92	60	Oregon	Pinot Noir
65,461	US	This vintage-dated Pinot Noir is the newest addition to the Evolution lineup. Tart and tangy, its light and lively pomegranate and raspberry flavors come from grapes principally fermented in stainless steel. In your wine-drinking pantheon, it might find a comfortable place alongside a cru Beaujolais.	88	20	Oregon	Pinot Noir
58,984	France	Fresh, with the attractive cool feel that's typical of the Loire, this is a red currant and raspberry flavored wine. It is fruity, just lightly structured and with a fine tang of citrus to finish.	88	18	Loire Valley	Sparkling Blend
99,163	US	A good, rugged Zinfandel, tannic and spicy, with a rustic mouthfeel framing wild berry, currant, licorice, beef jerky and spice flavors. Drink now with spicy pork, beef and chicken dishes.	86	20	California	Zinfandel
122,315	France	This is a firmly textured wine, with tannins pushing through the black currant fruit. It is beginning to show a balanced structure and a smooth, smoky character that's leavened by acidity and juicy fruit.	89	18	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
91,024	Italy	Made in a restrained style, this has savory black-fruit sensations. The palate delivers plum and raspberry flavors, with hints of bitter almond and tobacco that are supported by fresh acidity. Tellitalia Imports, Tradizione Imports.	88	20	Veneto	Red Blend
111,137	France	90-92 New wood aromas, and a tight palate, very toasty in character. Blackberry juice is under the wood, with the relief of final acidity.	91	60	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
42,282	France	Organic grapes go into this light and fruity wine with its unexpected animal name. It is soft with bright red-berry fruits that are cut with acidity. The wine is dry with strong citrus flavors at the end. Drink now.	86	17	Provence	Rosé
55,749	France	This is a refreshing crisp wine. Made from Pinot Gris, it has a light color, red-currant fruits and lively acidity. With a delicate perfume, it is a bright wine to drink now.	86	19	Loire Valley	Rosé
103,880	Italy	Violet, rose and woodland berry aromas fuse with a whiff a new leather on this bright red. On the luminous no-frills palate, accents of clove and orange peel add interest to unripe strawberry and sour cherry. Fresh acidity and firm tannins provide solid support.	88	29	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
40,191	Argentina	Fairly large, dark and extracted, but also lush and rich, with aromas of raisin and stewed blackberry. The palate is rich to the point of almost being heavy, while the flavors of blackberry and roasted black plum are mildly leathery and salty. Nice, big, meaty and tasty for the price.	88	12	Mendoza Province	Syrah
18,952	US	This new designation from Rex Hill is a bit reticent aromatically, but full on the palate, with plummy fruit and a light hint of barnyard. Good texture and nicely threaded flavors roll onto the smooth, lingering finish.	91	58	Oregon	Pinot Noir
126,823	US	It's hard to resist the charms of this delicious Syrah. It has brisk acids and tannins, yet it's curiously soft on the palate, with rich, exotically sweet flavors of black currants, dark chocolate, bacon and plum sauce.	90	36	California	Syrah
110,310	Italy	Forest floor, leather, tobacco and menthol aromas take shape in the glass. The palate is tense and vibrant, offering raspberry, pomegranate, licorice and espresso notes, bolstered by tightly wound tannins. Drink after 2020.	91	90	Tuscany	Sangiovese
71,500	France	A solid, structured Bordeaux. It shows black berry fruit flavors, lifted by acidity and rounded with dark plum, dry spice and firm tannins. There's a fine, juicy richness to the finish, which leaves fruit and dry tannins firmly in place.	86	13	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
45,624	France	Finely balanced, crisp and clean, a pure delight. The wine has a delicious swathe of fresh strawberry and pink grapefruit, in a style that is wine-y, ready for food. The final acidity is soft, but always fresh.	91	50	Champagne	Champagne Blend
9,261	US	Nutty and lush with layers of peach, pear and lime fruit, this is a medium-bodied and well-balanced white. It's refreshing while offering both length and breadth on the palate.	91	31	California	Sauvignon Blanc
17,252	US	Boldly flavored and slightly sweet, this blend of mostly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon smells jammy, tastes ripe and juicy and has a fairly smooth texture with a touch of tannin. The flavors resemble black berry and sweet red cherry, the body is full and the finish is fruity.	85	32	California	Red Blend
113,365	US	Rich flavors of peaches, pears, buttercream and toast appear in this dry Chardonnay, which shows no signs of tiredness, although many 2007s do. The chief problem is excessive softness. It lacks balancing acidity and brightness.	85	35	California	Chardonnay
39,995	Spain	Red in color and pretty clean on the nose, where raspberry and rose petal essence come together. The palate is acidic and tight, with tangy watermelon and peach flavors carrying the cleansing finish. Juicy to the extreme, but a good partner for food.	84	8	Northern Spain	Rosé
119,769	US	Black cherry notes persist throughout this bluish-pink dry rosé. Ripe white peach, watermelon and plum flavors are punchy and fresh, marked by a razor-edged line of acidity.	87	16	New York	Rosé
33,675	US	From the famous Westside Road-adjacent vineyard, this Chardonnay shows a proclivity toward lush roundness of texture and tropical flourish in flavor. Vanilla nuttiness is complemented by pineapple, green apple and caramel, lasting long into the finish.	90	44	California	Chardonnay
116,699	US	A common wine, slightly sweet and simple in construction, showing jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries. Finishes somewhat bitter, with green tannins.	82	15	California	Merlot
63,439	US	This co-mingling holds 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Petit Verdot. Juicy blackberry and cassis make up the wine's fruit component, accompanied by solid structure and tannins, and an unusual sprinkling of coconut macaroon.	89	40	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
61,904	US	The oak stands out, giving this Pinot a vanilla, caramel and buttered cinnamon toast dominance over the underlying cherry jam fruit. Although the texture is nice and silky, the wine itself feels simple, especially at this price.	86	42	California	Pinot Noir
59,807	Italy	Mormoreto is an exceptional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that produces a sensual, silky wine with gorgeous concentration and intense shadings of blueberry, cola, root beer, clove, cherry, chocolate fudge and moist earth. It boasts great complexity and a long, spice-driven finish.	93	54	Tuscany	Red Blend
33,740	US	This Syrah is candied on the palate with brown sugar and blackberry jam flavors, with a cassis liqueur headiness from high alcohol. It's not an ager, so drink up.	86	45	California	Syrah
63,143	US	The estate-grown, Dijon clone fruit is bursting with flavors of grapefruit, pineapple and Meyer lemon. Barrel fermentation rounds it out a bit and adds suggestions of nut oil to the finish. The relatively low alcohol keeps the acids up and suggests that this is one that could age well up to 2025.	91	50	Oregon	Chardonnay
86,841	US	Here's a no-nonsense wine with fresh fruit aromas, ripe but not overripe flavors, good acidity to keep it tangy and a smooth but firm texture that is appetizing. It tastes like white peaches with a splash of orange, then brings in toasted almonds on the finish.	87	17	California	Viognier
55,911	US	A big, strong Chardonnay with prominent buttered toast, buttered popcorn, vanilla, and pineapple-orange jam flavors. Elaborate and flashy, but obviously made to appeal to the modern style. Drink up.	87	37	California	Chardonnay
53,791	US	From a small vineyard in Los Olivos, this wine offers boysenberry, lavender, rosemary and a touch of oak on the nose. Intriguing pine tar, bay leaf and eucalyptus resin show on the palate, which gives depth to the deep black fruit.	91	30	California	Syrah
82,908	US	This bottling is typical of the style of Zin this vineyard produces. It's very high in alcohol, soft in acids, firm in tannins, and luscious with blackberry, cherry and milk chocolate flavor. Palls after a few sips due to its glyceriney richness.	85	42	California	Zinfandel
34,734	Portugal	The second wine of Quinta do Vesúvio, Pombal is still concentrated and dense from low yielding vines. Layers of juicy plum flavors and acidity gain strength and power from the dense, sweet tannins. It will need to age a few years, so drink from 2017.	92	28	Douro	Portuguese Red
66,382	US	In this vintage, one of Sonoma's top SBs scores points in all the requisite areas. A tiny bit of talc softens the tropical fruit bouquet. More exotic fruit is on the palate, highlighted by firm edges and some citrus rind. A bit of banana sweetens the long, dry finish, leaving you with the right overall impression.	90	24	California	Sauvignon Blanc
110,040	US	There's an elegant blend of red cherry, rose petal and purple-flower aromas on the nose of this wine. The palate is even more exquisitely layered, with espresso, dark red cherry, black plum, mission fig, North African spice and a touch of mint, all hung on a solid tannic structure.	93	39	California	Sangiovese
124,477	US	This wine carries a new label, very spare; the drawing of house and vineyard is gone; it's all white with simple type. The wine is simple, soapy, light and showing just a watery impression of citrus, banana and tropical fruits.	83	24	Washington	Chardonnay
105,793	US	Slight touches of smoked meat, iron, slate, cranberry, raspberry and dried sage show on the nose of this wine. The palate is a bit weak, with tangy strawberry and rust flavors.	84	18	California	Pinot Noir
75,526	US	This beautifully concentrated wine is all-fruit, all the time. It's appetizing texture is buoyed by firm, fine-grained tannins. It oozes blackberry syrup aromas, and floods the palate with rich grape and cassis flavors that linger a long time on the finish.	93	55	California	Zinfandel
28,134	US	Far better known as a Pinot Noir producer, Roessler has released this dry Riesling from 25-year-old vines, and it's a terrifically interesting, distinctive California white wine. At 4 years of age, it's bone dry, showing crisp, vibrant Anderson Valley acidity, and is showing the oily, diesel, peach, honeysuckle and hazelnut flavors of a maturing, Alsatian-style Riesling. Should continue to develop bottle complexity for another decade.	90	18	California	Riesling
111,687	US	A cleverly threaded mix of black cherry extract, cola, brown sugar and baking spice notes, with a dash of espresso, this is undeniably flavor-packed. It's big but remains balanced and nuanced, with all components in proportion. It's drinking well now, so don't delay.	91	37	Oregon	Pinot Noir
107,652	US	The man who makes a million Syrahs dives into a blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre and 15% Syrah on this bottling, which offers composting lilac, black pepper, fresh boysenberry, dried herb and a tarry quality on the nose. There's a strong blackberry-balsamic reduction flavor once sipped, as well as beef char, elderberry and more tar.	90	36	California	Rhône-style Red Blend
51,503	US	This very dry Cabernet feels rugged and gritty in the mouth, with too much acidity that lends bite. The austerity is relieved by black cherry and sweet tobacco flavors. Drink up.	85	39	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
83,804	US	As with its companion releases, the inviting aromatics capture your attention. On the palate, the wine offers classic varietal flavors of berry and tart plum, along with nuanced highlights of sassafras, bramble and a slight hint of hemp. Concentrated and compact, it should cellar well for at least a decade. Drink now through 2026.	93	90	Oregon	Pinot Noir
35,284	France	A soapy textured wine that misses any focus. There are soft red berry fruits, gentle tannins and some juicy acidity. But it is just dull.	84	18	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
124,126	US	More new oak shows here; it's packed with butterscotch and toasted, caramel-coated, apple-flavored fruit. It's tighter, spicier and oakier than the Elerding Vineyard Chardonnay from Januik, though at the moment it seems less complex in the finish.	91	30	Washington	Chardonnay
102,870	US	This beautiful single-vineyard wine takes all the themes of the regular Wente Cabernet and carries them into deeper, lusher, more complex territory. The color is darker, the depth of flavor more profound, the fruit veering more toward black currants, the tannins more refined, and the fruity-spicy finish simply wonderful and long.	92	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
69,855	US	Already entering its maturity, this offers flavors of dried cherries, cherry tobacco and rather tough, chewy tannins. It seems to have a hole in the midpalate, and may be moving quickly past its prime. Drink up.	86	47	Oregon	Pinot Noir
70,701	France	The vineyards of this estate take their name from their hillside (Puy) position. The wine is still very young with its generous black fruits and acidity still bubbling with energy. With tannins in the background, it will be a wine that develops relatively quickly, certainly ready to drink by 2019.	87	20	Bordeaux	Merlot
27,072	Germany	Lush strokes of honey and caramel intensify ripe peach and melon flavors in this fruity but light-footed wine. It's luscious, delicately sweet and calibrated with electric acidity and lime pith astringency on the finish. Irresistibly forward yet featherlight in demeanor.	94	37	Mosel	Riesling
65,503	France	Very mineral and textured from the limestone soil, this is a concentrated and complex wine. It boasts considerable acidity and very crisp fruit, with grapefruit and juicy lemons coming through strongly. Age until at least 2016.	91	25	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
77,181	Italy	Chopped mint, menthol, blue flower and red berry aromas take the lead in this wine. The taut palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, star anise and ground clove flavors alongside fine-grained tannins.	90	40	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
75,090	Argentina	Spicy mossy aromas are cool and herbal, and with that there are grapy, toasty, and chocolaty oak scents. This Malbec blend is tight and rugged, with clampy red-bery flavors resting on that same chocolaty oak. Drying tannins make for a hard finish that should mellow in due time. Drink through 2021.	89	30	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
40,060	US	This bottling by fine producer Kunde always shows a grassy, hay-like note to the citrus fruit flavors, so if that's your style, you'll like it. The wine itself is only lightly oaked, and feels crisp and clean in the mouth, as well as dry. The low alcohol is a pleasure.	87	15	California	Sauvignon Blanc
46,224	US	Char and savory spices accent blackberry and cherry aromas on this crisp, medium-bodied wine. On the palate, delicate fruit flavors are a bit overwhelmed amidst layers of oak and spice. It ends with a soft kiss of tannins.	85	35	New York	Pinot Noir
72,687	France	Tannins and a firm structure give this wine a firm character, but some smoky fruit offers a juicy alternative vision. With a ripe aftertaste, this wine will develop over the next few months. Drink from 2016.	86	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
86,071	US	The Milbrandt bottling is all Sundance Vineyard fruit, cropped a little higher, and macerated with fewer stems for a shorter time. It is a fine introduction to the K Vintners style; showing good density in a moderately ripe format. The fruit is brambly and tart, with some earth and stem flavors, good balance, and a hint of the grape's gamy aspect.	90	30	Washington	Syrah
49,340	Italy	This fine and delicate Brunello shows soft elegance and sophistication in the form of cassis, wild berry, white pepper, root beer, toasted nut and cigar tobacco. The mouthfeel is firm and clean, with elements of tannic structure and fresh acidity that work well together. The oak element still needs time to integrate.	93	70	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
69,741	US	Stiff at first, the Stoller puts on more interesting layers after an hour or two of breathing time. Pomegranate, peach skin, mineral and smoke components weave together, with slightly bitter phenolics wrapping up the finish.	90	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
43,885	France	This wine is initially austere, but then shows rich, ripe fruit and a solid structure. The wine's strong tannic character suggests considerable aging potential, while it already shows a deliciously gentle side.	92	76	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
40,334	US	An assertive and mouthfilling wine, this has a relatively light color. Aromas are on the earthy side, but the flavors are ripe and focused on cherries and berries with deeper hints of clove and coriander. It's full bodied, plush in texture and long on the finish.	93	58	California	Pinot Noir
41,895	US	Made from a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, this is a big, juicy wine with high acidity and a taste of crisp, red fruit. Substantial tannins suggest cellaring through 2018–2020 to elongate the young, puckering finish.	90	59	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
11,613	US	Intensely ripe, this is a straightforward wine with upfront cherry jam and oak flavors. Not much else going on, but it's fine for a party.	83	15	California	Merlot
73,696	Italy	A blend of Sangiovese and Merlot in equal parts, this concentrated wine opens with aromas of vanilla, ripe black-skinned fruit and mocha. The supple palate offers coconut, toast and black plum alongside velvety tannins.	91	140	Tuscany	Red Blend
74,914	US	Pure Cabernet sourced principally from the Cold Creek Vineyard, this instantly accessible reserve plays out broadly across the palate, with black cherry, caramel and creamy coffee flavors in abundance. Hints of graphite and chalk carry through the tannins and into the well-defined, balanced finish.	90	48	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
37,701	US	Simple and jammy in raspberries and cherries, but the acidity is fine and the tannins are just right. It's an easy Merlot to drink now.	85	20	California	Merlot
87,278	US	This reserve is actually one of the winery's less expensive Chardonnays. It's full, fruity and forward, with a lush mix of pineapple, peaches and tropical fruits, buttressed with juicy acids and highlights of toasted nuts. Thoroughly delicious, and ready for immediate enjoyment.	92	55	Oregon	Chardonnay
90,524	US	This Christian Roguenant wine, which translates to “Red Falcon,” offers a plump and inviting nose of black plum, cherry, cinnamon,and gingerbread aromas, with a touch of crushed slate. The palate tightens up remarkably, revealing gravel notes and dark berry fruit, proving minerally throughout the sip.	92	35	California	Pinot Noir
54,627	Portugal	A richly ripe wine, full of tarry, dark tannins and black fruits. Despite its weight and density, it is well balanced, the dark flavors opening out with flavors of licorice, bitter chocolate and spicy wood.	90	12	Douro	Portuguese Red
62,878	US	Lots of acidity in this Pinot, maybe too much, as it gives a sour edge to the sweet raspberries and cherries. The end result is candied cough drop. Decant before serving.	86	35	California	Pinot Noir
13,653	US	Round rather than racy, this fruity effort rings out with peach, melon and papaya flavors. It's finished dry with just 4g/L residual sugar, and the delicious finish has a honeysuckle note.	91	30	Oregon	Riesling
95,281	US	Clean and varietal, this firm and juicy Pinot Noir offers light, forward raspberry and plum fruit, dusted with cinnamon and cocoa. Medium concentration and length.	88	27	Oregon	Pinot Noir
43,409	Spain	Very familiar Rioja aromas of cherry, plum and prune scream Tempranillo. This is wiry in feel, with tight, hammering acidity. Berry and black-cherry flavors finish on a subtle note of chocolate along with a final shot of juicy, sharp acidity.	89	23	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
115,036	US	Dry and firm in tannins, this has upfront blackberry, cherry, oak and spice flavors. It's a Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux blend with some Syrah, which brings a smoked meat taste.	87	35	California	Red Blend
14,358	Italy	The wine's beauty and intensity are impossible to match. There's enormous complexity of aromas here with chocolate, black tar, spice, blackberry, forest currant and tobacco. You'll pick up toasted oak tones as well, but they are carefully balanced within the naturally supple and smooth essence of this standout Brunello.	94	115	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
110,869	US	Nice, clean and brisk, this has flavors of lemongrass, white pepper, cream, butter and just a hint of white flower. While it's technically dry, there's lots of California-style ripe fruit. Easy to like as an appetizer wine.	87	22	California	Sauvignon Blanc
45,768	US	This wine doesn't quite know what it wants to be when it grows up. It vacillates between an intensity of oak, matchstick flintiness and a misplaced sense of austerity.	83	18	California	Chardonnay
120,693	Italy	You'll find aromas of scorched soil, roasted coffee bean, cedar and mature black-skinned fruit in this structured Syrah. The full-bodied palate delivers toasted oak, espresso, crushed Mediterranean herbs and dried black fruit alongside ample, polished tannins.	90	175	Tuscany	Syrah
64,262	US	Made in a direct style to appeal now, and succeeds. Dry, soft and silky, the wine seduces with lush black cherry, raspberry, red currant, mocha and spice flavors that are deeply satisfying. Not an ager, but nice now through 2010.	91	30	California	Pinot Noir
110,379	US	The Stalker is made by drying the stalks before embarking on whole berry fermentation. It's good to go, with bright cherry-candy flavors, light spices and a tart cranberry kick to the finish.	89	50	Oregon	Pinot Noir
60,007	US	Brine and oak accents cradle this impressive wine's elegant green apple, wet stone and lime notes. Bold and concentrated yet complex, it's balanced by lively acidity and persistent freshness.	95	55	California	Chardonnay
49,903	US	Supple and scented with a sweet mix of fruit, coffee and mocha, this expressive red blend (53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 8% Cab Franc, 8% Syrah) tastes of bright black cherry fruit, coffee grounds, some grainy tannins and a long finish that brings in pepper, spice and chocolate. Very accessible and full-flavored, it is built for immediate drinking rather than cellaring.	88	20	Washington	Red Blend
43,096	US	As sweet as raspberry tea sweetened with a couple spoons of white sugar. Alcohol provides a pleasant burn. If this sweeter style of Zin is your thing, it's quite a nice wine.	85	14	California	Zinfandel
84,036	US	This wine leaps out of the glass with fresh and bright aromas of strawberry blossoms, ripe raspberries, red flowers and a tiny bit of iron. The flavors are reminiscent of a potpourri satchel, with dried hibiscus flowers, tart cranberries, sour cherries and touches of pencil lead.	88	20	California	Pinot Noir
128,696	US	Fresh, fruity and acidic, this young Pinot Noir wants some time in the cellar. It's brilliantly structured, with a core of black cherries, cola, rhubarbs, pomegranates, mushrooms and spices, with rich notes of smoke, cocoa and cedar. Silky and complex, and should age through 2013.	94	58	California	Pinot Noir
104,066	US	Sourced from the Stanly Ranch Vineyard, among other sites, this 100% varietal wine is light pink-orange in hue, and citrus-driven in flavor. Cherry and strawberry notes complement the lemon and grapefruit, delivering a refreshingly lengthy zip of acidity.	92	19	California	Pinot Noir
16,299	US	Swathes of fresh tarragon lend a green, herbal tone to cassis and black plum flavors in this pretty wine. Penetrating, grippy tannins are jolting on the finish, underlining a tight, brisk finish.	87	25	New York	Cabernet Sauvignon
31,152	US	It's impossible to exaggerate the yummy factor of this silky, fruity Pinot Noir. While it has pleasant acidity, it's the raspberry, cherry, cinnamon and brown-sugar flavors that make it so appealing to drink now.	92	35	California	Pinot Noir
64,351	US	The aromas of blue fruit, herbs and spice are initially under tight restraint. The flavors are full, with the tannins simultaneously firm and fine grained. It shows good length.	90	40	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
10,668	France	Lean, soft and soapy in character, this has a dry core and soft tannins, with a lightweight red-berry note. Not for aging.	84	50	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
82,286	US	This is your basic California Chardonnay with oak, orange, Meyer lemon and papaya flavors. Produced without malolactic fermentation, the palate is vibrant with acidity.	85	10	California	Chardonnay
73,201	US	With easy raspberry, cherry and sandalwood flavors, this has the softness you want in Merlot, although it lacks some complexity.	86	30	California	Merlot
77,614	US	A blend of Stillwater Creek and Dineen vineyard fruit, aromas of assorted dried herbs, coffee and barrel spices intermingle. The dark-fruit flavors are elegant, polished and reserved, supported by lightly grainy tannins.	88	36	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
117,984	US	A welcome presence of clean, spicy oak aromas and flavors lifts this full-bodied and fruity wine to a higher level of complexity. It's elegant in balance and smooth in texture, showing a lingering, light spicy finish.	90	35	California	Barbera
58,225	US	A pace off the 2005, this single-vineyard wine, from the Sebastopol area, shows enormously ripe, powerful flavors of cherries, blackberries, raspberries, cola and vanilla. Fortunately, acidity is quite high, giving all that rich flavor a crisp bite.	90	55	California	Pinot Noir

9,036

Germany

This summery Riesling wafts of ripe yellow cherries and blossoms. Dry in style with a rich, rounded mouthfeel, it's deeply concentrated with stone fruit flavors accented by hints of waxy lemon and lime skin. It's delicious now for its fragrant, fruity exuberance, but likely to develop its waxy, mineral complexities through 2019–2021.

91

35

Mosel

Riesling

75,606

Argentina

The Oak Cask in the name is evident in the bacon, vanilla and creamy berry aromas that open things up. The palate, however, is fairly acidic, making the fruit taste bright and feel zesty. Flavors of cherry and plum are distinctly red in character, and the finish is quick and lean.

85

13

Mendoza Province

Syrah

34,961

US

A simple, jammy Zinfandel, with gentle raspberry, cherry, cola and spice flavors that finish sweet and hot in high alcohol.

83

27

California

Zinfandel

75,101

France

The wine is completely mature. With soft strawberry flavors that have melded into the rounded texture, this is a wine that has only the lightest tannins. Acidity and an attractive ripe fruit character make this a wine to enjoy now.

89

40

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

76,291

US

This wine is quite locked up at present, with barrel notes of cocoa and vanilla in front of high toned dried herbs, black cherry and dusty earth. The flavors are elegant yet rich, tart and fresh with bright acids and an extended finish. Though the wood occasionally gets a bit out front, it's a very pretty expression of the variety that needs time to fully stretch its legs. Best after 2018 or give it a long decant.

92

95

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

114,011

US

A muskiness is present on the nose of this wine from Santa Barbara County's first commercial vineyard, along with fruitier aspects of strawberry-boysenberry tart. It's fruit-forward on the palate, yet cinnamon toast and cedar give it a more serious edge as well.

92

36

California

Pinot Noir

80,539

US

The 2011 Resonance Reserve has just a bit more concentration than the elegant regular bottling. There seems to be more new barrel influence as well, offering proportioned touches of milk chocolate, nougat and caramel. All in all, this is a tasty wine with fine length and impressive detail.

92

60

Oregon

Pinot Noir

65,461

US

This vintage-dated Pinot Noir is the newest addition to the Evolution lineup. Tart and tangy, its light and lively pomegranate and raspberry flavors come from grapes principally fermented in stainless steel. In your wine-drinking pantheon, it might find a comfortable place alongside a cru Beaujolais.

88

20

Oregon

Pinot Noir

58,984

France

Fresh, with the attractive cool feel that's typical of the Loire, this is a red currant and raspberry flavored wine. It is fruity, just lightly structured and with a fine tang of citrus to finish.

88

18

Loire Valley

Sparkling Blend

99,163

US

A good, rugged Zinfandel, tannic and spicy, with a rustic mouthfeel framing wild berry, currant, licorice, beef jerky and spice flavors. Drink now with spicy pork, beef and chicken dishes.

86

20

California

Zinfandel

122,315

France

This is a firmly textured wine, with tannins pushing through the black currant fruit. It is beginning to show a balanced structure and a smooth, smoky character that's leavened by acidity and juicy fruit.

89

18

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

91,024

Italy

Made in a restrained style, this has savory black-fruit sensations. The palate delivers plum and raspberry flavors, with hints of bitter almond and tobacco that are supported by fresh acidity. Tellitalia Imports, Tradizione Imports.

88

20

Veneto

Red Blend

111,137

France

90-92 New wood aromas, and a tight palate, very toasty in character. Blackberry juice is under the wood, with the relief of final acidity.

91

60

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

42,282

France

Organic grapes go into this light and fruity wine with its unexpected animal name. It is soft with bright red-berry fruits that are cut with acidity. The wine is dry with strong citrus flavors at the end. Drink now.

86

17

Provence

Rosé

55,749

France

This is a refreshing crisp wine. Made from Pinot Gris, it has a light color, red-currant fruits and lively acidity. With a delicate perfume, it is a bright wine to drink now.

86

19

Loire Valley

Rosé

103,880

Italy

Violet, rose and woodland berry aromas fuse with a whiff a new leather on this bright red. On the luminous no-frills palate, accents of clove and orange peel add interest to unripe strawberry and sour cherry. Fresh acidity and firm tannins provide solid support.

88

29

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

40,191

Argentina

Fairly large, dark and extracted, but also lush and rich, with aromas of raisin and stewed blackberry. The palate is rich to the point of almost being heavy, while the flavors of blackberry and roasted black plum are mildly leathery and salty. Nice, big, meaty and tasty for the price.

88

12

Mendoza Province

Syrah

18,952

US

This new designation from Rex Hill is a bit reticent aromatically, but full on the palate, with plummy fruit and a light hint of barnyard. Good texture and nicely threaded flavors roll onto the smooth, lingering finish.

91

58

Oregon

Pinot Noir

126,823

US

It's hard to resist the charms of this delicious Syrah. It has brisk acids and tannins, yet it's curiously soft on the palate, with rich, exotically sweet flavors of black currants, dark chocolate, bacon and plum sauce.

90

36

California

Syrah

110,310

Italy

Forest floor, leather, tobacco and menthol aromas take shape in the glass. The palate is tense and vibrant, offering raspberry, pomegranate, licorice and espresso notes, bolstered by tightly wound tannins. Drink after 2020.

91

90

Tuscany

Sangiovese

71,500

France

A solid, structured Bordeaux. It shows black berry fruit flavors, lifted by acidity and rounded with dark plum, dry spice and firm tannins. There's a fine, juicy richness to the finish, which leaves fruit and dry tannins firmly in place.

86

13

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

45,624

France

Finely balanced, crisp and clean, a pure delight. The wine has a delicious swathe of fresh strawberry and pink grapefruit, in a style that is wine-y, ready for food. The final acidity is soft, but always fresh.

91

50

Champagne

Champagne Blend

9,261

US

Nutty and lush with layers of peach, pear and lime fruit, this is a medium-bodied and well-balanced white. It's refreshing while offering both length and breadth on the palate.

91

31

California

Sauvignon Blanc

17,252

US

Boldly flavored and slightly sweet, this blend of mostly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon smells jammy, tastes ripe and juicy and has a fairly smooth texture with a touch of tannin. The flavors resemble black berry and sweet red cherry, the body is full and the finish is fruity.

85

32

California

Red Blend

113,365

US

Rich flavors of peaches, pears, buttercream and toast appear in this dry Chardonnay, which shows no signs of tiredness, although many 2007s do. The chief problem is excessive softness. It lacks balancing acidity and brightness.

85

35

California

Chardonnay

39,995

Spain

Red in color and pretty clean on the nose, where raspberry and rose petal essence come together. The palate is acidic and tight, with tangy watermelon and peach flavors carrying the cleansing finish. Juicy to the extreme, but a good partner for food.

84

8

Northern Spain

Rosé

119,769

US

Black cherry notes persist throughout this bluish-pink dry rosé. Ripe white peach, watermelon and plum flavors are punchy and fresh, marked by a razor-edged line of acidity.

87

16

New York

Rosé

33,675

US

From the famous Westside Road-adjacent vineyard, this Chardonnay shows a proclivity toward lush roundness of texture and tropical flourish in flavor. Vanilla nuttiness is complemented by pineapple, green apple and caramel, lasting long into the finish.

90

44

California

Chardonnay

116,699

US

A common wine, slightly sweet and simple in construction, showing jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries. Finishes somewhat bitter, with green tannins.

82

15

California

Merlot

63,439

US

This co-mingling holds 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Petit Verdot. Juicy blackberry and cassis make up the wine's fruit component, accompanied by solid structure and tannins, and an unusual sprinkling of coconut macaroon.

89

40

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

61,904

US

The oak stands out, giving this Pinot a vanilla, caramel and buttered cinnamon toast dominance over the underlying cherry jam fruit. Although the texture is nice and silky, the wine itself feels simple, especially at this price.

86

42

California

Pinot Noir

59,807

Italy

Mormoreto is an exceptional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that produces a sensual, silky wine with gorgeous concentration and intense shadings of blueberry, cola, root beer, clove, cherry, chocolate fudge and moist earth. It boasts great complexity and a long, spice-driven finish.

93

54

Tuscany

Red Blend

33,740

US

This Syrah is candied on the palate with brown sugar and blackberry jam flavors, with a cassis liqueur headiness from high alcohol. It's not an ager, so drink up.

86

45

California

Syrah

63,143

US

The estate-grown, Dijon clone fruit is bursting with flavors of grapefruit, pineapple and Meyer lemon. Barrel fermentation rounds it out a bit and adds suggestions of nut oil to the finish. The relatively low alcohol keeps the acids up and suggests that this is one that could age well up to 2025.

91

50

Oregon

Chardonnay

86,841

US

Here's a no-nonsense wine with fresh fruit aromas, ripe but not overripe flavors, good acidity to keep it tangy and a smooth but firm texture that is appetizing. It tastes like white peaches with a splash of orange, then brings in toasted almonds on the finish.

87

17

California

Viognier

55,911

US

A big, strong Chardonnay with prominent buttered toast, buttered popcorn, vanilla, and pineapple-orange jam flavors. Elaborate and flashy, but obviously made to appeal to the modern style. Drink up.

87

37

California

Chardonnay

53,791

US

From a small vineyard in Los Olivos, this wine offers boysenberry, lavender, rosemary and a touch of oak on the nose. Intriguing pine tar, bay leaf and eucalyptus resin show on the palate, which gives depth to the deep black fruit.

91

30

California

Syrah

82,908

US

This bottling is typical of the style of Zin this vineyard produces. It's very high in alcohol, soft in acids, firm in tannins, and luscious with blackberry, cherry and milk chocolate flavor. Palls after a few sips due to its glyceriney richness.

85

42

California

Zinfandel

34,734

Portugal

The second wine of Quinta do Vesúvio, Pombal is still concentrated and dense from low yielding vines. Layers of juicy plum flavors and acidity gain strength and power from the dense, sweet tannins. It will need to age a few years, so drink from 2017.

92

28

Douro

Portuguese Red

66,382

US

In this vintage, one of Sonoma's top SBs scores points in all the requisite areas. A tiny bit of talc softens the tropical fruit bouquet. More exotic fruit is on the palate, highlighted by firm edges and some citrus rind. A bit of banana sweetens the long, dry finish, leaving you with the right overall impression.

90

24

California

Sauvignon Blanc

110,040

US

There's an elegant blend of red cherry, rose petal and purple-flower aromas on the nose of this wine. The palate is even more exquisitely layered, with espresso, dark red cherry, black plum, mission fig, North African spice and a touch of mint, all hung on a solid tannic structure.

93

39

California

Sangiovese

124,477

US

This wine carries a new label, very spare; the drawing of house and vineyard is gone; it's all white with simple type. The wine is simple, soapy, light and showing just a watery impression of citrus, banana and tropical fruits.

83

24

Washington

Chardonnay

105,793

US

Slight touches of smoked meat, iron, slate, cranberry, raspberry and dried sage show on the nose of this wine. The palate is a bit weak, with tangy strawberry and rust flavors.

84

18

California

Pinot Noir

75,526

US

This beautifully concentrated wine is all-fruit, all the time. It's appetizing texture is buoyed by firm, fine-grained tannins. It oozes blackberry syrup aromas, and floods the palate with rich grape and cassis flavors that linger a long time on the finish.

93

55

California

Zinfandel

28,134

US

Far better known as a Pinot Noir producer, Roessler has released this dry Riesling from 25-year-old vines, and it's a terrifically interesting, distinctive California white wine. At 4 years of age, it's bone dry, showing crisp, vibrant Anderson Valley acidity, and is showing the oily, diesel, peach, honeysuckle and hazelnut flavors of a maturing, Alsatian-style Riesling. Should continue to develop bottle complexity for another decade.

90

18

California

Riesling

111,687

US

A cleverly threaded mix of black cherry extract, cola, brown sugar and baking spice notes, with a dash of espresso, this is undeniably flavor-packed. It's big but remains balanced and nuanced, with all components in proportion. It's drinking well now, so don't delay.

91

37

Oregon

Pinot Noir

107,652

US

The man who makes a million Syrahs dives into a blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre and 15% Syrah on this bottling, which offers composting lilac, black pepper, fresh boysenberry, dried herb and a tarry quality on the nose. There's a strong blackberry-balsamic reduction flavor once sipped, as well as beef char, elderberry and more tar.

90

36

California

Rhône-style Red Blend

51,503

US

This very dry Cabernet feels rugged and gritty in the mouth, with too much acidity that lends bite. The austerity is relieved by black cherry and sweet tobacco flavors. Drink up.

85

39

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

83,804

US

As with its companion releases, the inviting aromatics capture your attention. On the palate, the wine offers classic varietal flavors of berry and tart plum, along with nuanced highlights of sassafras, bramble and a slight hint of hemp. Concentrated and compact, it should cellar well for at least a decade. Drink now through 2026.

93

90

Oregon

Pinot Noir

35,284

France

A soapy textured wine that misses any focus. There are soft red berry fruits, gentle tannins and some juicy acidity. But it is just dull.

84

18

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

124,126

US

More new oak shows here; it's packed with butterscotch and toasted, caramel-coated, apple-flavored fruit. It's tighter, spicier and oakier than the Elerding Vineyard Chardonnay from Januik, though at the moment it seems less complex in the finish.

91

30

Washington

Chardonnay

102,870

US

This beautiful single-vineyard wine takes all the themes of the regular Wente Cabernet and carries them into deeper, lusher, more complex territory. The color is darker, the depth of flavor more profound, the fruit veering more toward black currants, the tannins more refined, and the fruity-spicy finish simply wonderful and long.

92

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

69,855

US

Already entering its maturity, this offers flavors of dried cherries, cherry tobacco and rather tough, chewy tannins. It seems to have a hole in the midpalate, and may be moving quickly past its prime. Drink up.

86

47

Oregon

Pinot Noir

70,701

France

The vineyards of this estate take their name from their hillside (Puy) position. The wine is still very young with its generous black fruits and acidity still bubbling with energy. With tannins in the background, it will be a wine that develops relatively quickly, certainly ready to drink by 2019.

87

20

Bordeaux

Merlot

27,072

Germany

Lush strokes of honey and caramel intensify ripe peach and melon flavors in this fruity but light-footed wine. It's luscious, delicately sweet and calibrated with electric acidity and lime pith astringency on the finish. Irresistibly forward yet featherlight in demeanor.

94

37

Mosel

Riesling

65,503

France

Very mineral and textured from the limestone soil, this is a concentrated and complex wine. It boasts considerable acidity and very crisp fruit, with grapefruit and juicy lemons coming through strongly. Age until at least 2016.

91

25

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

77,181

Italy

Chopped mint, menthol, blue flower and red berry aromas take the lead in this wine. The taut palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, star anise and ground clove flavors alongside fine-grained tannins.

90

40

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

75,090

Argentina

Spicy mossy aromas are cool and herbal, and with that there are grapy, toasty, and chocolaty oak scents. This Malbec blend is tight and rugged, with clampy red-bery flavors resting on that same chocolaty oak. Drying tannins make for a hard finish that should mellow in due time. Drink through 2021.

89

30

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

40,060

US

This bottling by fine producer Kunde always shows a grassy, hay-like note to the citrus fruit flavors, so if that's your style, you'll like it. The wine itself is only lightly oaked, and feels crisp and clean in the mouth, as well as dry. The low alcohol is a pleasure.

87

15

California

Sauvignon Blanc

46,224

US

Char and savory spices accent blackberry and cherry aromas on this crisp, medium-bodied wine. On the palate, delicate fruit flavors are a bit overwhelmed amidst layers of oak and spice. It ends with a soft kiss of tannins.

85

35

New York

Pinot Noir

72,687

France

Tannins and a firm structure give this wine a firm character, but some smoky fruit offers a juicy alternative vision. With a ripe aftertaste, this wine will develop over the next few months. Drink from 2016.

86

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

86,071

US

The Milbrandt bottling is all Sundance Vineyard fruit, cropped a little higher, and macerated with fewer stems for a shorter time. It is a fine introduction to the K Vintners style; showing good density in a moderately ripe format. The fruit is brambly and tart, with some earth and stem flavors, good balance, and a hint of the grape's gamy aspect.

90

30

Washington

Syrah

49,340

Italy

This fine and delicate Brunello shows soft elegance and sophistication in the form of cassis, wild berry, white pepper, root beer, toasted nut and cigar tobacco. The mouthfeel is firm and clean, with elements of tannic structure and fresh acidity that work well together. The oak element still needs time to integrate.

93

70

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

69,741

US

Stiff at first, the Stoller puts on more interesting layers after an hour or two of breathing time. Pomegranate, peach skin, mineral and smoke components weave together, with slightly bitter phenolics wrapping up the finish.

90

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

43,885

France

This wine is initially austere, but then shows rich, ripe fruit and a solid structure. The wine's strong tannic character suggests considerable aging potential, while it already shows a deliciously gentle side.

92

76

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

40,334

US

An assertive and mouthfilling wine, this has a relatively light color. Aromas are on the earthy side, but the flavors are ripe and focused on cherries and berries with deeper hints of clove and coriander. It's full bodied, plush in texture and long on the finish.

93

58

California

Pinot Noir

41,895

US

Made from a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, this is a big, juicy wine with high acidity and a taste of crisp, red fruit. Substantial tannins suggest cellaring through 2018–2020 to elongate the young, puckering finish.

90

59

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

11,613

US

Intensely ripe, this is a straightforward wine with upfront cherry jam and oak flavors. Not much else going on, but it's fine for a party.

83

15

California

Merlot

73,696

Italy

A blend of Sangiovese and Merlot in equal parts, this concentrated wine opens with aromas of vanilla, ripe black-skinned fruit and mocha. The supple palate offers coconut, toast and black plum alongside velvety tannins.

91

140

Tuscany

Red Blend

74,914

US

Pure Cabernet sourced principally from the Cold Creek Vineyard, this instantly accessible reserve plays out broadly across the palate, with black cherry, caramel and creamy coffee flavors in abundance. Hints of graphite and chalk carry through the tannins and into the well-defined, balanced finish.

90

48

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

37,701

US

Simple and jammy in raspberries and cherries, but the acidity is fine and the tannins are just right. It's an easy Merlot to drink now.

85

20

California

Merlot

87,278

US

This reserve is actually one of the winery's less expensive Chardonnays. It's full, fruity and forward, with a lush mix of pineapple, peaches and tropical fruits, buttressed with juicy acids and highlights of toasted nuts. Thoroughly delicious, and ready for immediate enjoyment.

92

55

Oregon

Chardonnay

90,524

US

This Christian Roguenant wine, which translates to “Red Falcon,” offers a plump and inviting nose of black plum, cherry, cinnamon,and gingerbread aromas, with a touch of crushed slate. The palate tightens up remarkably, revealing gravel notes and dark berry fruit, proving minerally throughout the sip.

92

35

California

Pinot Noir

54,627

Portugal

A richly ripe wine, full of tarry, dark tannins and black fruits. Despite its weight and density, it is well balanced, the dark flavors opening out with flavors of licorice, bitter chocolate and spicy wood.

90

12

Douro

Portuguese Red

62,878

US

Lots of acidity in this Pinot, maybe too much, as it gives a sour edge to the sweet raspberries and cherries. The end result is candied cough drop. Decant before serving.

86

35

California

Pinot Noir

13,653

US

Round rather than racy, this fruity effort rings out with peach, melon and papaya flavors. It's finished dry with just 4g/L residual sugar, and the delicious finish has a honeysuckle note.

91

30

Oregon

Riesling

95,281

US

Clean and varietal, this firm and juicy Pinot Noir offers light, forward raspberry and plum fruit, dusted with cinnamon and cocoa. Medium concentration and length.

88

27

Oregon

Pinot Noir

43,409

Spain

Very familiar Rioja aromas of cherry, plum and prune scream Tempranillo. This is wiry in feel, with tight, hammering acidity. Berry and black-cherry flavors finish on a subtle note of chocolate along with a final shot of juicy, sharp acidity.

89

23

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

115,036

US

Dry and firm in tannins, this has upfront blackberry, cherry, oak and spice flavors. It's a Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux blend with some Syrah, which brings a smoked meat taste.

87

35

California

Red Blend

14,358

Italy

The wine's beauty and intensity are impossible to match. There's enormous complexity of aromas here with chocolate, black tar, spice, blackberry, forest currant and tobacco. You'll pick up toasted oak tones as well, but they are carefully balanced within the naturally supple and smooth essence of this standout Brunello.

94

115

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

110,869

US

Nice, clean and brisk, this has flavors of lemongrass, white pepper, cream, butter and just a hint of white flower. While it's technically dry, there's lots of California-style ripe fruit. Easy to like as an appetizer wine.

87

22

California

Sauvignon Blanc

45,768

US

This wine doesn't quite know what it wants to be when it grows up. It vacillates between an intensity of oak, matchstick flintiness and a misplaced sense of austerity.

83

18

California

Chardonnay

120,693

Italy

You'll find aromas of scorched soil, roasted coffee bean, cedar and mature black-skinned fruit in this structured Syrah. The full-bodied palate delivers toasted oak, espresso, crushed Mediterranean herbs and dried black fruit alongside ample, polished tannins.

90

175

Tuscany

Syrah

64,262

US

Made in a direct style to appeal now, and succeeds. Dry, soft and silky, the wine seduces with lush black cherry, raspberry, red currant, mocha and spice flavors that are deeply satisfying. Not an ager, but nice now through 2010.

91

30

California

Pinot Noir

110,379

US

The Stalker is made by drying the stalks before embarking on whole berry fermentation. It's good to go, with bright cherry-candy flavors, light spices and a tart cranberry kick to the finish.

89

50

Oregon

Pinot Noir

60,007

US

Brine and oak accents cradle this impressive wine's elegant green apple, wet stone and lime notes. Bold and concentrated yet complex, it's balanced by lively acidity and persistent freshness.

95

55

California

Chardonnay

49,903

US

Supple and scented with a sweet mix of fruit, coffee and mocha, this expressive red blend (53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 8% Cab Franc, 8% Syrah) tastes of bright black cherry fruit, coffee grounds, some grainy tannins and a long finish that brings in pepper, spice and chocolate. Very accessible and full-flavored, it is built for immediate drinking rather than cellaring.

88

20

Washington

Red Blend

43,096

US

As sweet as raspberry tea sweetened with a couple spoons of white sugar. Alcohol provides a pleasant burn. If this sweeter style of Zin is your thing, it's quite a nice wine.

85

14

California

Zinfandel

84,036

US

This wine leaps out of the glass with fresh and bright aromas of strawberry blossoms, ripe raspberries, red flowers and a tiny bit of iron. The flavors are reminiscent of a potpourri satchel, with dried hibiscus flowers, tart cranberries, sour cherries and touches of pencil lead.

88

20

California

Pinot Noir

128,696

US

Fresh, fruity and acidic, this young Pinot Noir wants some time in the cellar. It's brilliantly structured, with a core of black cherries, cola, rhubarbs, pomegranates, mushrooms and spices, with rich notes of smoke, cocoa and cedar. Silky and complex, and should age through 2013.

94

58

California

Pinot Noir

104,066

US

Sourced from the Stanly Ranch Vineyard, among other sites, this 100% varietal wine is light pink-orange in hue, and citrus-driven in flavor. Cherry and strawberry notes complement the lemon and grapefruit, delivering a refreshingly lengthy zip of acidity.

92

19

California

Pinot Noir

16,299

US

Swathes of fresh tarragon lend a green, herbal tone to cassis and black plum flavors in this pretty wine. Penetrating, grippy tannins are jolting on the finish, underlining a tight, brisk finish.

87

25

New York

Cabernet Sauvignon

31,152

US

It's impossible to exaggerate the yummy factor of this silky, fruity Pinot Noir. While it has pleasant acidity, it's the raspberry, cherry, cinnamon and brown-sugar flavors that make it so appealing to drink now.

92

35

California

Pinot Noir

64,351

US

The aromas of blue fruit, herbs and spice are initially under tight restraint. The flavors are full, with the tannins simultaneously firm and fine grained. It shows good length.

90

40

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

10,668

France

Lean, soft and soapy in character, this has a dry core and soft tannins, with a lightweight red-berry note. Not for aging.

84

50

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

82,286

US

This is your basic California Chardonnay with oak, orange, Meyer lemon and papaya flavors. Produced without malolactic fermentation, the palate is vibrant with acidity.

85

10

California

Chardonnay

73,201

US

With easy raspberry, cherry and sandalwood flavors, this has the softness you want in Merlot, although it lacks some complexity.

86

30

California

Merlot

77,614

US

A blend of Stillwater Creek and Dineen vineyard fruit, aromas of assorted dried herbs, coffee and barrel spices intermingle. The dark-fruit flavors are elegant, polished and reserved, supported by lightly grainy tannins.

88

36

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

117,984

US

A welcome presence of clean, spicy oak aromas and flavors lifts this full-bodied and fruity wine to a higher level of complexity. It's elegant in balance and smooth in texture, showing a lingering, light spicy finish.

90

35

California

Barbera

58,225

US

A pace off the 2005, this single-vineyard wine, from the Sebastopol area, shows enormously ripe, powerful flavors of cherries, blackberries, raspberries, cola and vanilla. Fortunately, acidity is quite high, giving all that rich flavor a crisp bite.

90

55

California

Pinot Noir