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
93,491	Italy	Machiavelli's “The Prince” is an innovative super Tuscan blend with Sangiovese, Pinot Nero and Cabernet that is fruity and fresh but with excellent power and intensity. The nose is redolent of small berries and exotic spice and the dry finish is long and satisfying.	88	30	Tuscany	Red Blend
32,250	France	Lifted ethereal notes of bitter almond and peach kernel alongside hints of chamomile announce evolution and development. Underneath these aromatic forces on the nose, the palate reveals ripe peach and pear on a very concentrated, absolutely streamlined and bone-dry body. Pleasantly bitter pith notes give a grown-up edge to this mature marvel. Wonderfully layered flavors make you linger and show what time can do to a classy Pinot Gris.	94	63	Alsace	Pinot Gris
66,215	US	Simple and direct, this wine is characterized by flavors of blackberry, currant, mocha and oak. It's a softly tannic Cabernet with a large production of 48,000 cases. Dry and spicy, it's ready to drink now.	86	26	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
27,647	US	To judge by the blast of white pepper and strong tannins, the Northern Rhône is the model for this dry, single-vineyard wine. It is a distinguished Syrah, but too tannic and closed down now for thorough enjoyment. Best to cellar for 3 or 4 years, maybe longer, until it throws some sediment.	90	32	California	Syrah
35,560	US	This flashy, complex Zinfandel wants to be paired with a burger. It's just luscious in blackberry jam and teriyaki beef flavors, with tart acidity that can't wait to bite into greasy protein and fat.	91	27	California	Zinfandel
31,862	US	This Merlot's soft mouthfeel and mellow tannins make it fine for everyday drinking. It has stylish flavors of cherries and red licorice, and is beginning to show its age.	86	26	California	Merlot
33,915	France	Cinsault, at 53%, is the major player in this soft, tangy wine. It has a good balance of red fruits, citrus acidity and crisp apple. The wine is ripe, poised with an attractively fruity aftertaste.	86	18	Provence	Rosé
88,241	US	Smoky berries and black cherry mix with crushed grapeseed and a dried-mint element on the nose of this bottling. Dill, dried oregano and a touch of thyme pop on the palate, where deep and dark elderberry flavors are framed by sticky tannins.	89	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
26,096	US	Production was 10,000 cases, amazing when you consider how good this mountain wine is. Immediately drinkable for the soft purity of the tannins and complex cassis, chocolate and oak flavors, it has the sturdy structure to develop for some years, but is best now for its elegant purity. Hess is on a real Cabernet roll, and is one of Napa's overlooked stars.	92	50	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
128,101	France	The floral perfume of this wine is subdued, while the palate has the grip of fir honey and citrus pith along with softer notes of blossom and gentle yellow plum. These are balanced so well by bitter elements that this medium-dry wine almost finishes dry. Matched with ripe, washed-rind cheeses it will be a triumph.	89	33	Alsace	Gewürztraminer
7,020	France	This ripe, sweet-fruited wine is soft and quite mature. Red fruits have developed into a smooth and round texture with a delicate mushroom character. Drink now.	89	54	Alsace	Pinot Noir
44,771	US	Very dark, very focused, and very pure, this full-bodied wine polishes the notorious tannins of the varietal just slightly, while pouring on dark chocolate, blackberry jam, white pepper and a touch of floral flavor. It's a great wine to buy and stash in a cool place for a few years to see how interesting Petite Sirah can get. Best after 2024.	93	45	California	Petite Sirah
19,574	US	This is the winery's most expensive bottling, a late disgorged bubbly that has now seen a decade of age. It shows the elegant polish of the '97 Royal Cuvée, but is superior even to it in richness. The creamy smoothness is the star attraction, but so are the subtle citrus, raspberry, brioche and vanilla flavors. Impeccably dry balance guarantees that this beautiful brut will age effortlessly for 10 years, if not longer.	95	50	California	Sparkling Blend
40,606	Spain	Spicy plum and berry aromas are slightly earthy and on the money. This feels full and plump, but well balanced. Spicy dry plum and berry flavors are limited but focused, while this offers a vanilla note on a finish that fades out slow and easy. Drink through 2019.	90	32	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
48,035	Argentina	The welcoming aromas of red berry and cherry are slightly smoky and spicy. Showing good body, this has light tannins, with flavors of toasty plum, berry, chocolate and spice. It's round, mellow and easy on the finish.	87	10	Mendoza Province	Malbec
5,528	US	Sturdy and basic, this Pinot Noir has vegetal aromas, modest fruit flavors, and a dry, lean texture. Aromas suggest tomato and herbs, while flavors are more rich.	82	7	California	Pinot Noir
93,224	US	Tight at first, this has a fine tannin structure that wraps around the wine like a scarf. The aromatics come with force, with intoxicating wafts of violet, pepper and herb.	90	35	California	Syrah
10,471	Italy	Aromas of charred earth, underbrush and roasted coffee beans lead the nose of this blend of 50% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot. The palate offers dried black cherries, prunes, clove, anise and tobacco set in a framework of tightly woven tannins. Drink 2016–2021.	90	90	Tuscany	Red Blend
10,461	Argentina	Slightly herbal plum and berry aromas come with a pinch of spice and meatiness. Feels medium-bodied and crisp, with juicy red-fruit flavors of plum, tomato and raspberry. Dries out on the finish, where it becomes more herbal and roasted.	85	10	Mendoza Province	Malbec
109,913	US	Cabernet Sauvignon (38%), Syrah (35%), Merlot (22%) and Sangiovese comprise this blend of declassified barrels. It displays aromas of mocha, barrel spices, dark berries and cranberry. The black-fruit flavors are ripe and generous, backed up by a firm lick of tannins.	89	20	Washington	Red Blend
125,240	US	This bottling offers an expression of velvety plush texture that's persistent in stony minerality and an edge of graphite. Cranberry, rhubarb and orange provide tart, tangy fruit flavors that are irresistible around the complex spice core.	92	39	California	Pinot Noir
2,044	Italy	Barolo Bricco delle Viole is a lush and generous wine with a bright ruby color and attractively intense aromas of cherry, wild berry, nutmeg, clove, powdered licorice and root beer. The oak influence is still obvious at this early stage, but will no doubt integrate with time. The mouthfeel is exceedingly soft, smooth and velvety. You don't need to wait too many years before uncorking this bottle.	92	75	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
39,413	US	Viognier is a particular strength at Penner-Ash, and here, once again, the challenge of balancing the grape's high-wire sensibility is met with ease. Firm and compact initially, it blooms with delicious flavors of lemon pastry, hints of mint, and lemongrass. It's full bodied, poised and steers clear of both bitterness and burn.	92	35	Oregon	Viognier
65,524	US	While savory on the nose with pungent whiffs of smoke and dried herb, this full-bodied Chardonnay is surprisingly forward with ripe, sunny peach and apricot flavors. Straightforward in style yet juicy and enjoyable.	84	20	New York	Chardonnay
103,866	US	Scoring slightly higher than the Alderpoint vineyard-designated wine, this basic Humboldt County bottling bursts with with black cherry aroma. It's medium-bodied, free of oak-driven flavor and loaded with fruit. Lively acidity and mouth-filling texture keep the cherry and raspberry notes echoing through the finish, striking wonderful balance in an appetizing, mouthwatering package.	92	29	California	Pinot Noir
4,737	US	This David Lake Signature Series wine blends two different clones, Sangiovese Piccolo and Sangiovese Grosso, and starts with a lovely, complex bouquet of rose petals, strawberry, watermelon, cherry and cocoa. It's supple, elegant and graceful, with pretty accents and subtle spicy highlights nicely spaced across the palate. A delicate, sensuous wine.	90	18	Washington	Sangiovese
112,568	US	This 100% varietal wine, barrel-aged in French and American oak, offers aromas of vanilla, cranberry, cinnamon and raisinated red fruit, seeming a bit advanced for its age. The palate has tart acids and good flavor concentration, backed by somewhat blocky tannins.	88	28	Washington	Cabernet Franc
84,541	US	Pale salmon in color, this delivers mineral, strawberry and cherry aromas. It's dry on the palate, with tart, lightly concentrated sour cherry and citrus rind flavors.	88	21	Washington	Rosé
101,035	US	Unusually dry and tangy, this light-bodied wine smells like celery and herbs, and tastes very lean and straightforward.	82	25	California	Pinot Grigio
41,383	France	A blend of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Sémillon, this is a crisp fruity wine with attractive acidity and lemon flavors that have been given some time to soften out. It has a touch of barrel aging, but the wine is really all about fruitiness. Drink now.	86	18	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
33,953	US	One of the few Finger Lakes' Gewürztraminers to exhibit such spot-on varietal typicity, this is gorgeously aromatic with loads of honeysuckle, lychee, stone fruit and exotic spice notes. Off-dry, concentrated and bold on the palate, it's balanced with just a touch of phenolic bitterness.	88	18	New York	Gewürztraminer
53,122	US	Elegant aromas of black plum, asphalt, black tea and sandalwood show on the nose of this appellation blend from Adam Lee. The palate offers hints of forest floor with mushroom and mulberry flavors, as well as a persistent woody spice.	89	39	California	Pinot Noir
24,946	France	Hints of savory earth mingle with fresh apple notes. The palate has the bright mellow freshness of ripe oranges and the juiciness of ripe pear. A core of bright lemon acidity makes for a clean, bright and refreshing finish.	90	23	Alsace	Riesling
84,616	Italy	A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this supple, delicious wine opens with aromas of blackberry, tilled soil, leather, vanilla and tobacco. The juicy palate doles out black cherry, fleshy plum, well-integrated oak and graphite. It's balanced with firm but fine-grained tannins and modest acidity. Drink through 2019.	93	40	Tuscany	Red Blend
38,545	US	Darker than the winery's other single-vineyard Pinot, this one shows intense raspberry/loganberry flavors, and some spice and pepper too. There is good concentration in the midpalate, with tart, tangy, tightly-wound fruit and well-integrated tannins. I would prefer a bit more new oak, but even so there is a pleasant toasty bite to the finish.	91	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
35,791	France	Liversan makes a serious style of wine from its 125-acre vineyard, situated in the north of the Haut-Médoc. Dense, this is balanced between the black plum fruits and dry tannins. It's a wine for long-term aging, so drink from 2018.	90	26	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
107,747	US	One of the best Nebbiolos to ever come from California. The aroma dazzles with notes of tar, licorice, roasted meat, cherries, pepper and cedar. The wine is absolutely dry, with brilliant acidity, and seems to change with each moment in the glass. Just starting to dry out, but still fresh and lively. A remarkable wine at an amazingly affordable price for what you get.	94	35	California	Nebbiolo
108,911	Italy	Tramontana refers to northern winds that wash across Italy. With those winds as inspiration, this easy Pinot Grigio opens with a lean, watery mouthfeel and crisp endnotes of melon and lemon.	84	10	Veneto	Pinot Grigio
1,560	US	A stunning Pirouette—63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 9% Cab Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. Full and magnificently rich, it is loaded with dense and thrilling fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis. A streak of iron and a hint of citrus keep the wine evolving through a long, beautifully balanced finish. Retasted after being open for 24 hours, the wine was as fresh and thrilling as on the first day.	98	50	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
119,439	US	Fresh and stony on the nose, this bottling from one of the region's leading properties shows crisp lime and grapefruit pith aromas. The palate is edged with tart yellow grapefruit yet also offers warmer tones of nectarine-like fruit. Refreshing acidity and chalky grip carry deep into the finish.	91	28	California	Sauvignon Blanc
20,656	France	This is a juicy black-currant flavored wine that's ripe in tannin and in fruitiness. It has a hint of bitter extraction and an edge of dark wood aging, which need to soften and become round, so age it for at least five years.	87	30	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
51,653	US	Sharp and focused, with fine-tuned varietal expression, this is flat out loaded with rich fruit flavors. Orange, lime, pineapple and pear can be found, all beautifully polished. It's ripe and precise without being bitter or hot, and a fine value as well.	93	23	Oregon	Viognier
104,419	US	Dark pink in color, this wine is marked by a nutty layering of light acidity and orange, Gravenstein apple and cherry flavors. It's delicate yet has enough stuffing and structure to pair with a wide array of dishes.	91	25	California	Pinot Noir
26,062	France	From vines in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers, the wine is fresh, fruity and light. It has red-currant flavors that are bright and crisp. It's perfumed by the Cabernet Franc that dominates the blend. Drink from 2018.	84	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
40,857	US	Bursts of tropical citrus, mango and melon abound from nose to finish in this forward,fruity off-dry Riesling. Its uncomplicated fruitiness is a bit reminiscent of mixed-fruit cocktail, but it's juicy and approachable for a wide audience. Drink now through 2018.	87	16	New York	Riesling
115,383	US	Blackberry pie stars in this soft, grippy estate wine, held in both French and American oak, only a third of it new. Integrated tannins provide an approachability, along with a strong suggestion of leather.	88	40	California	Cabernet Franc
51,890	US	This blend of Roussanne, Chardonnay and Viognier is a wine of tremendous interest and complexity. While it's quite dry, it shows powerful flavors, but is not a bomb, with the voluptuous, flowery fruitiness retreating into firmer minerals in the finish. Sweet oak is present in the most exacting balance. An exciting experiment in control and verve from this distinguished winery.	94	50	California	White Blend
107,671	Spain	Baked, rooty aromas of sandalwood, exotic spices and berry fruits are attractive. Though slightly grabby on the palate, this shows the right structure and build. Flavors of up-front oak, herbal plum and raspberry finish dry, with firm, pinching tannins. Drink through 2021.	90	20	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
20,534	France	The lightest touch of wood gives this wine a full, rich character. Weight and density are balanced by the intense acidity. Melon, apricots and citrus are all blended in this ripe wine. Drink from 2018.	90	80	Burgundy	Chardonnay
86,890	Australia	Standard stuff, done right. Smoke and toast aromas add nuance to scents of citrus and peach. Hints of vanilla and baking spices buttress apple and pear flavors. The wine finishes with fresh, lemony notes. This is textbook Chardonnay.	87	18	South Australia	Chardonnay
9,027	US	Ken Wright produces more than a dozen single-vineyard Pinots in any given vintage. This wine, which sells for a fraction of the cost of those wines, uses many of the same grapes. It's an astonishing value, lushly fruited, tangy and laced with appealing minerality. The mix of red fruits, earth, acid and mineral is a perfect encapsulation of the pricier cuvées' strengths.	91	25	Oregon	Pinot Noir
11,868	US	Black cherry pie, milk chocolate and lilacs combine for a very accessible and rather lavish nose on this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. It's easy to like on the sip, with candied purple fruit and licorice spice flavors, proving very fruity, lush and quaffable.	90	35	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
107,703	US	This is a clear, light wine, aged lightly in oak, only 30% of it new. Wild brush and burnt orange dominate in taste and aroma, with additional characteristics of rhubarb, red cherry and lovely rose.	91	68	California	Pinot Noir
66,866	US	The Paso producer heads a bit north to produce this wine. Aromas suggest browned butter, lemon slices, pan-seared peach and a bit of smoke, with some steely aromatic backbone. The palate is consumed by lemon blossoms and buttered toast.	89	28	California	Chardonnay
77,537	US	This broad-shouldered, burly and feral wine is ripe with smoky cherry and vanilla notes. Smoothly textured, it imparts dusty leather and black licorice accents amid a serious slathering of oak.	88	75	California	Syrah
111,464	Italy	Fragrant purple flowers, dark berries and a whiff of baking spices lead the nose of this medium-bodied red. The round, soft palate offers black cherry, vanilla, milk chocolate and cinnamon alongside smooth, polished tannins. A confectionary note signals the close.	88	25	Tuscany	Red Blend
69,786	US	Primarily sourced from vineyards on Howell Mountain and within Napa Valley's Glass Mountain area, this wine aims to take its cues from Bordeaux, according to the producer. It's soft and revelatory in cinnamon and black-pepper spiciness, with black currant on the palate. It finishes in chewing tobacco and tar.	86	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
6,479	US	From the prestigious Rutherford appellation comes this soft, smooth and mellow Cabernet, with delicious flavors of black cherry, cola and beef teriyaki. It shows just a trace of bitterness on the finish, so drink soon.	91	36	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
38,809	Italy	Here's a savory Chianti from the Senesi hills that offers offers bright cherry and strawberry sensations with hints of white pepper. It's fresh, zesty and made to be enjoyed young. Pair this with a variety of pasta dishes or pecorino cheese.	88	15	Tuscany	Sangiovese
2,190	US	Slightly sour Meyer-lemon-pith aromas meet with honeysuckle and yellow pear on the nose of this bottling by veteran Bob Lindquist. There is a strong sizzle of acidity on the sip, where green-apple flavors meet with tart nectarine and lime-peel zip. It's very fresh and food-friendly.	89	20	California	Chardonnay
37,711	US	Preserved red-cherry and strawberry notes penetrate throughout this ripe, full-bodied Pinot Noir. Bright acidity and hints of brambly wood, baking spice and florals on the palate add complexity and balance.	85	29	New York	Pinot Noir
89,843	US	This is a heavy-duty wine, layered with power and richness. The nose shows black cherries, prunes and gingerbread, inviting like a hot dessert. The palate is soft, deep and mouth-massaging with the blackest of cherries and bluest of berries, though lifted with licorice, espresso and fudge elements. Serve with hearty roasts.	92	45	California	Syrah
15,636	US	The Gun Metal red is a Bordeaux-style blend—a smooth, seamless mix of spicy red fruits with new barrel highlights of coffee grounds, toasted walnuts and baking spices. There's a lick of citrus running through it also, a testament to the natural acidity that adds life and lift to Washington state reds.	92	39	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
101,957	US	Opening aromas blend earthy red fruits with a whiff of leather. It's a nicely sculpted wine, tight and stiff, with pleasant berry and cherry flavors that stop abruptly as the finish turns a bit sour.	87	33	Oregon	Pinot Noir
74,682	US	The texture is smooth and velvety on this Zinfandel, but the flavors are off. You'll find ripe blackberry jam and currants right next to overripe raisins. Enormously high alcohol makes this wine taste like a fruity, simple port.	84	30	California	Zinfandel
43,987	US	Raw, common and unripe, with vegetal and bizarrely sweet blackberry candy notes. A tough but serviceable blend of seven popular varieties.	82	15	California	Red Blend
103,652	US	This is the winery's top brut, and what a gorgeous wine it is. Blended equally with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it shows lime, tangerine and strawberry flavors that are subtle and rich. The mousse is very fine, giving it a silky texture. Beautiful to drink now.	93	65	California	Sparkling Blend
59,731	Germany	While the nose is quite neutral, the palate of this off-dry Riesling boasts ripe, concentrated peach and apricot flavors bolstered by sunny lemon acidity. Juicy and mouthwatering, it's a lively sip to be enjoyed young.	88	15	Mosel	Riesling
78,183	US	Made from several high-class sites, including Hyde Vineyard and Beckstoffer's Carneros Lake/Las Amigas Vineyard, this is a cooler-climate, 100% varietal wine. Juicy in crisp red fruit, it also has elements of pencil lead and cedar, giving an edginess of savory complexity that's interesting and long-lasting.	90	72	California	Merlot
73,495	France	Ripe and richly fruity, the wine is full bodied with great acidity as well as firm tannins. It will keep for many years. Bold tannins and a fine tension between the fruit and acidity are all promising for the future. Drink this impressive wine from 2025.	94	120	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
19,772	US	This well-made, well-priced wine over-delivers in terms of quality. Smoky cherry and plum accentuate the toasted oak, as a sturdy foundation of tannin gives it power and strength. The savory finish mixes forest and tea.	90	27	California	Pinot Noir
66,118	Italy	Aromas of dark-skinned fruit, clove and anise come together in the glass. The straightforward, tangy palate delivers red cherry and ground pepper alongside vibrant acidity and soft tannins.	87	22	Piedmont	Barbera
57,193	US	Too sweet for balance, with sugary flavors of blackberry and cherry jam. The sweetness accentuates the tannins, making them more astringent and rustic than they really are.	83	25	California	Syrah
41,348	France	This is a smooth and soft wine with attractive white-fruit aromas and bold acidity. It's finely textured with juicy, fresh apple and pear flavors. It is ready to drink now, but will age over the medium term.	87	32	Burgundy	Chardonnay
43,939	France	Typical of the Ayala style, this is almost bone dry. It has crisp acidity and a light touch on the fresh strawberry and raspberry flavors. Its success also comes from the mineral texture that gives structure to this food-friendly wine.	88	70	Champagne	Champagne Blend
113,694	US	A lovely wine to have at picnics, on the beach, backyard barbecues, even at the table with everything from fried calamari and goat cheese to roast pork and fresh fruit. Completely dry and racy in acids, it shows intense, nervy flavors of citrus fruits and zest, with spicy notes of medjool dates.	90	12	California	Pinot Grigio
88,005	US	Light and forward, this pure Cabernet offers pretty strawberry fruit and soft tannins. Easy drinking, it's built for near-term consumption.	86	22	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
40,422	US	Although the 2010 vintage was cooler than the previous two years, this Chardonnay still offers rich and luscious notes of crème caramel and baked pear. The intoxicating bouquet picks up layers of lemon zest and mineral.	92	34	California	Chardonnay
80,061	US	At almost five years of age, this wine is mellow, smooth and incredibly good. It shows classic Cabernet flavors of blackberries and sweet cassis liqueur. It is beautifully concentrated with ripe fruit just starting to develop interesting, aged characteristics. Just beautiful for drinking now, and should continue to evolve in the bottle for at least six more years.	93	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
20,182	France	This is an elegant, smooth wine that draws out the freshness of the vintage as much as the fruitiness. It has ripe, soft tannins, juicy red-fruit flavors and an intriguing smokiness. With acidity holding the wine in check, it should age well. Drink from 2017.	90	33	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
11,055	US	This unfined and unfiltered wine carries itself lightly, as is appropriate to the vintage and the grape. It's clean and delicate, with light raspberry fruit and hints of leaf and dried herb.	89	30	Oregon	Pinot Noir
128,376	US	A striking and flavorful wine, this bottling shows a little more spicy oak than most of the Renwoods, giving a slightly sweet cinnamon accent to the vivid blackberry and strawberry syrup flavors. The fruit character is powerful and delicious, seemingly seeping out of the wine in all directions. It's dry, full bodied, firm textured and will drink nicely now through 2020.	93	40	California	Zinfandel
4,811	Italy	Simple, clean and fresh, this no-fuss Pinot Grigio would pair nicely against Chinese take-out or an outdoor salad lunch. It shows clean aromas of citrus and white peach.	85	14	Veneto	Pinot Grigio
58,895	Spain	This wine leads with tire rubber, bacon, forest floor, juniper and blackberry aromas, requiring as much air or time as you can give. In the mouth, it's hard, tannic and almost astringent. A mix of oak and herb-laced black fruit flavors finishes long, with plenty of energy and power in reserve. Drink 2018–2027.	93	85	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
106,809	France	This wine is refreshing, its red fruit juice laced with acidity and a touch of herbs. Easy and light to drink.	85	16	Provence	Rosé
78,203	US	Smoky in toasted oak, this textured, layered wine has a full body and considerable length, highlighted by chocolate mocha and black cherry.	90	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
101,577	US	In this new vintage of Sorella, Cabernet Sauvignon is again right out front at 72% of the blend. Here the fruit seems more subdued, the wine tight, the dense tannins showing graphite and mineral more than new barrel flavors. It definitely needs decanting.	96	64	Washington	Red Blend
62,005	US	Marked by brisk, citrusy acidity, this Pinot Grigio has orange, Meyer lemon and sweet green-grass flavors. It would pair well with Chinese and Vietnamese food.	86	21	California	Pinot Grigio
18,423	US	This affordable Chard is a wonderful food wine. It's dry, brisk in acidity and clean, with nice varietal flavors of pineapples, oranges, pears and limes. Oak treatment adds a just right touch of vanilla and buttered toast, while brisk acidity makes it all bright and zesty. Easy to find, with 13,200 cases produced.	91	25	California	Chardonnay
83,354	US	A subtle, complex, utterly distinctive mix of flavors, with opening streaks of butter cookie, then mushroom broth, tightly wound berry fruit, earthy coffee grounds and even darker streaks of espresso and smoke and licorice. It is deeply layered with flavors that just keep piling on. Amazing wine.	98	70	Washington	Syrah
53,880	US	This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), Syrah (30%), Merlot (18%), and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of pencil lead, raspberries, flowers, baking spices and herbs are followed by palate-coating red and blue-fruit flavors. It displays a lovely sense of balance.	90	21	Washington	Red Blend
114,687	US	This cuvée is a barrel selection, fermented with whole berries and aged in 35% new oak. Simple strawberry and raspberry fruit seems almost weightless, and the quick finish carries a strong streak of bouillon.	86	40	Oregon	Pinot Noir
17,429	US	You can taste the warm sunshine in the spicy berry flavors of this Zin. It comes right up to the edge of overripe, with suggestions of bitter raisins, then pulls back to let the cassis and cherry liqueur shine through.	87	33	California	Zinfandel
60,174	France	Bonnet was this family's winery in 1744. André Lurton took over in 1953 and in 2015, the third warmest year since 1900, his team created a wine with tropical fruits, mango and pineapple. This give this wine its ripe, perfumed character. It does have a crisp side as well, fresh with apple and citrus. The balance is just right, giving a refreshing, ready-to-drink wine.	88	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
77,356	US	Lightly pink in color with a hint of orange, this bottling, which includes 20% Grenache Blanc, shows rose petals and a touch of watermelon shaved ice on the shy nose. The palate is very steely, reserved and tense, with only hints of light strawberry emerging. The wine is more about texture than flavor.	87	18	California	Grenache
16,916	US	Pretty and polished, this Pinot is delicately structured, with a great burst of acidity and a dry, spicy finish. The raspberry, vanilla and toast flavors are a little thin, but pleasant and complex. It's ready to drink now.	86	24	California	Pinot Noir
35,333	Argentina	Winemakers Hélène Garcin and Patrice Levêque have coaxed a ton of character from 70-year-old Malbec and Cabernet vines, and the result is juicy but dark, with asphalt and tar aromas sitting in front of tight but generous black fruit (cassis and blackberry). Finishing notes of coffee, mocha and char leave you happy.	93	80	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
59,613	US	Flowery and balanced in crisp, dry flavors of lemon and pear, this wine takes its designation from the French word for fog, a nod to its cool-climate environs. Supple tannins and refined acidity round out the deal.	88	32	California	Chardonnay
113,788	US	A tasty tang of toasted oak adds a great top note to this full-flavored and full-bodied wine, so that it seems to build complexity from the bass notes of ripe pear, to the butter and cinnamon in the middle and up to the wrapping of spicy, smoky oak.	90	15	California	Chardonnay
115,274	Italy	Licorice, menthol, red berry and clove aromas carry over to the taut palate along with a tobacco note. Tightly wound fine-grained tannins provide firm support. Drink 2019–2027.	90	51	Piedmont	Nebbiolo

93,491

Italy

Machiavelli's “The Prince” is an innovative super Tuscan blend with Sangiovese, Pinot Nero and Cabernet that is fruity and fresh but with excellent power and intensity. The nose is redolent of small berries and exotic spice and the dry finish is long and satisfying.

88

30

Tuscany

Red Blend

32,250

France

Lifted ethereal notes of bitter almond and peach kernel alongside hints of chamomile announce evolution and development. Underneath these aromatic forces on the nose, the palate reveals ripe peach and pear on a very concentrated, absolutely streamlined and bone-dry body. Pleasantly bitter pith notes give a grown-up edge to this mature marvel. Wonderfully layered flavors make you linger and show what time can do to a classy Pinot Gris.

94

63

Alsace

Pinot Gris

66,215

US

Simple and direct, this wine is characterized by flavors of blackberry, currant, mocha and oak. It's a softly tannic Cabernet with a large production of 48,000 cases. Dry and spicy, it's ready to drink now.

86

26

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

27,647

US

To judge by the blast of white pepper and strong tannins, the Northern Rhône is the model for this dry, single-vineyard wine. It is a distinguished Syrah, but too tannic and closed down now for thorough enjoyment. Best to cellar for 3 or 4 years, maybe longer, until it throws some sediment.

90

32

California

Syrah

35,560

US

This flashy, complex Zinfandel wants to be paired with a burger. It's just luscious in blackberry jam and teriyaki beef flavors, with tart acidity that can't wait to bite into greasy protein and fat.

91

27

California

Zinfandel

31,862

US

This Merlot's soft mouthfeel and mellow tannins make it fine for everyday drinking. It has stylish flavors of cherries and red licorice, and is beginning to show its age.

86

26

California

Merlot

33,915

France

Cinsault, at 53%, is the major player in this soft, tangy wine. It has a good balance of red fruits, citrus acidity and crisp apple. The wine is ripe, poised with an attractively fruity aftertaste.

86

18

Provence

Rosé

88,241

US

Smoky berries and black cherry mix with crushed grapeseed and a dried-mint element on the nose of this bottling. Dill, dried oregano and a touch of thyme pop on the palate, where deep and dark elderberry flavors are framed by sticky tannins.

89

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

26,096

US

Production was 10,000 cases, amazing when you consider how good this mountain wine is. Immediately drinkable for the soft purity of the tannins and complex cassis, chocolate and oak flavors, it has the sturdy structure to develop for some years, but is best now for its elegant purity. Hess is on a real Cabernet roll, and is one of Napa's overlooked stars.

92

50

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

128,101

France

The floral perfume of this wine is subdued, while the palate has the grip of fir honey and citrus pith along with softer notes of blossom and gentle yellow plum. These are balanced so well by bitter elements that this medium-dry wine almost finishes dry. Matched with ripe, washed-rind cheeses it will be a triumph.

89

33

Alsace

Gewürztraminer

7,020

France

This ripe, sweet-fruited wine is soft and quite mature. Red fruits have developed into a smooth and round texture with a delicate mushroom character. Drink now.

89

54

Alsace

Pinot Noir

44,771

US

Very dark, very focused, and very pure, this full-bodied wine polishes the notorious tannins of the varietal just slightly, while pouring on dark chocolate, blackberry jam, white pepper and a touch of floral flavor. It's a great wine to buy and stash in a cool place for a few years to see how interesting Petite Sirah can get. Best after 2024.

93

45

California

Petite Sirah

19,574

US

This is the winery's most expensive bottling, a late disgorged bubbly that has now seen a decade of age. It shows the elegant polish of the '97 Royal Cuvée, but is superior even to it in richness. The creamy smoothness is the star attraction, but so are the subtle citrus, raspberry, brioche and vanilla flavors. Impeccably dry balance guarantees that this beautiful brut will age effortlessly for 10 years, if not longer.

95

50

California

Sparkling Blend

40,606

Spain

Spicy plum and berry aromas are slightly earthy and on the money. This feels full and plump, but well balanced. Spicy dry plum and berry flavors are limited but focused, while this offers a vanilla note on a finish that fades out slow and easy. Drink through 2019.

90

32

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

48,035

Argentina

The welcoming aromas of red berry and cherry are slightly smoky and spicy. Showing good body, this has light tannins, with flavors of toasty plum, berry, chocolate and spice. It's round, mellow and easy on the finish.

87

10

Mendoza Province

Malbec

5,528

US

Sturdy and basic, this Pinot Noir has vegetal aromas, modest fruit flavors, and a dry, lean texture. Aromas suggest tomato and herbs, while flavors are more rich.

82

7

California

Pinot Noir

93,224

US

Tight at first, this has a fine tannin structure that wraps around the wine like a scarf. The aromatics come with force, with intoxicating wafts of violet, pepper and herb.

90

35

California

Syrah

10,471

Italy

Aromas of charred earth, underbrush and roasted coffee beans lead the nose of this blend of 50% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot. The palate offers dried black cherries, prunes, clove, anise and tobacco set in a framework of tightly woven tannins. Drink 2016–2021.

90

Tuscany

Red Blend

10,461

Argentina

Slightly herbal plum and berry aromas come with a pinch of spice and meatiness. Feels medium-bodied and crisp, with juicy red-fruit flavors of plum, tomato and raspberry. Dries out on the finish, where it becomes more herbal and roasted.

85

10

Mendoza Province

Malbec

109,913

US

Cabernet Sauvignon (38%), Syrah (35%), Merlot (22%) and Sangiovese comprise this blend of declassified barrels. It displays aromas of mocha, barrel spices, dark berries and cranberry. The black-fruit flavors are ripe and generous, backed up by a firm lick of tannins.

89

20

Washington

Red Blend

125,240

US

This bottling offers an expression of velvety plush texture that's persistent in stony minerality and an edge of graphite. Cranberry, rhubarb and orange provide tart, tangy fruit flavors that are irresistible around the complex spice core.

92

39

California

Pinot Noir

2,044

Italy

Barolo Bricco delle Viole is a lush and generous wine with a bright ruby color and attractively intense aromas of cherry, wild berry, nutmeg, clove, powdered licorice and root beer. The oak influence is still obvious at this early stage, but will no doubt integrate with time. The mouthfeel is exceedingly soft, smooth and velvety. You don't need to wait too many years before uncorking this bottle.

92

75

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

39,413

US

Viognier is a particular strength at Penner-Ash, and here, once again, the challenge of balancing the grape's high-wire sensibility is met with ease. Firm and compact initially, it blooms with delicious flavors of lemon pastry, hints of mint, and lemongrass. It's full bodied, poised and steers clear of both bitterness and burn.

92

35

Oregon

Viognier

65,524

US

While savory on the nose with pungent whiffs of smoke and dried herb, this full-bodied Chardonnay is surprisingly forward with ripe, sunny peach and apricot flavors. Straightforward in style yet juicy and enjoyable.

84

20

New York

Chardonnay

103,866

US

Scoring slightly higher than the Alderpoint vineyard-designated wine, this basic Humboldt County bottling bursts with with black cherry aroma. It's medium-bodied, free of oak-driven flavor and loaded with fruit. Lively acidity and mouth-filling texture keep the cherry and raspberry notes echoing through the finish, striking wonderful balance in an appetizing, mouthwatering package.

92

29

California

Pinot Noir

4,737

US

This David Lake Signature Series wine blends two different clones, Sangiovese Piccolo and Sangiovese Grosso, and starts with a lovely, complex bouquet of rose petals, strawberry, watermelon, cherry and cocoa. It's supple, elegant and graceful, with pretty accents and subtle spicy highlights nicely spaced across the palate. A delicate, sensuous wine.

90

18

Washington

Sangiovese

112,568

US

This 100% varietal wine, barrel-aged in French and American oak, offers aromas of vanilla, cranberry, cinnamon and raisinated red fruit, seeming a bit advanced for its age. The palate has tart acids and good flavor concentration, backed by somewhat blocky tannins.

88

28

Washington

Cabernet Franc

84,541

US

Pale salmon in color, this delivers mineral, strawberry and cherry aromas. It's dry on the palate, with tart, lightly concentrated sour cherry and citrus rind flavors.

88

21

Washington

Rosé

101,035

US

Unusually dry and tangy, this light-bodied wine smells like celery and herbs, and tastes very lean and straightforward.

82

25

California

Pinot Grigio

41,383

France

A blend of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Sémillon, this is a crisp fruity wine with attractive acidity and lemon flavors that have been given some time to soften out. It has a touch of barrel aging, but the wine is really all about fruitiness. Drink now.

86

18

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

33,953

US

One of the few Finger Lakes' Gewürztraminers to exhibit such spot-on varietal typicity, this is gorgeously aromatic with loads of honeysuckle, lychee, stone fruit and exotic spice notes. Off-dry, concentrated and bold on the palate, it's balanced with just a touch of phenolic bitterness.

88

18

New York

Gewürztraminer

53,122

US

Elegant aromas of black plum, asphalt, black tea and sandalwood show on the nose of this appellation blend from Adam Lee. The palate offers hints of forest floor with mushroom and mulberry flavors, as well as a persistent woody spice.

89

39

California

Pinot Noir

24,946

France

Hints of savory earth mingle with fresh apple notes. The palate has the bright mellow freshness of ripe oranges and the juiciness of ripe pear. A core of bright lemon acidity makes for a clean, bright and refreshing finish.

90

23

Alsace

Riesling

84,616

Italy

A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this supple, delicious wine opens with aromas of blackberry, tilled soil, leather, vanilla and tobacco. The juicy palate doles out black cherry, fleshy plum, well-integrated oak and graphite. It's balanced with firm but fine-grained tannins and modest acidity. Drink through 2019.

93

40

Tuscany

Red Blend

38,545

US

Darker than the winery's other single-vineyard Pinot, this one shows intense raspberry/loganberry flavors, and some spice and pepper too. There is good concentration in the midpalate, with tart, tangy, tightly-wound fruit and well-integrated tannins. I would prefer a bit more new oak, but even so there is a pleasant toasty bite to the finish.

91

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

35,791

France

Liversan makes a serious style of wine from its 125-acre vineyard, situated in the north of the Haut-Médoc. Dense, this is balanced between the black plum fruits and dry tannins. It's a wine for long-term aging, so drink from 2018.

90

26

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

107,747

US

One of the best Nebbiolos to ever come from California. The aroma dazzles with notes of tar, licorice, roasted meat, cherries, pepper and cedar. The wine is absolutely dry, with brilliant acidity, and seems to change with each moment in the glass. Just starting to dry out, but still fresh and lively. A remarkable wine at an amazingly affordable price for what you get.

94

35

California

Nebbiolo

108,911

Italy

Tramontana refers to northern winds that wash across Italy. With those winds as inspiration, this easy Pinot Grigio opens with a lean, watery mouthfeel and crisp endnotes of melon and lemon.

84

10

Veneto

Pinot Grigio

1,560

US

A stunning Pirouette—63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 9% Cab Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. Full and magnificently rich, it is loaded with dense and thrilling fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis. A streak of iron and a hint of citrus keep the wine evolving through a long, beautifully balanced finish. Retasted after being open for 24 hours, the wine was as fresh and thrilling as on the first day.

98

50

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

119,439

US

Fresh and stony on the nose, this bottling from one of the region's leading properties shows crisp lime and grapefruit pith aromas. The palate is edged with tart yellow grapefruit yet also offers warmer tones of nectarine-like fruit. Refreshing acidity and chalky grip carry deep into the finish.

91

28

California

Sauvignon Blanc

20,656

France

This is a juicy black-currant flavored wine that's ripe in tannin and in fruitiness. It has a hint of bitter extraction and an edge of dark wood aging, which need to soften and become round, so age it for at least five years.

87

30

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

51,653

US

Sharp and focused, with fine-tuned varietal expression, this is flat out loaded with rich fruit flavors. Orange, lime, pineapple and pear can be found, all beautifully polished. It's ripe and precise without being bitter or hot, and a fine value as well.

93

23

Oregon

Viognier

104,419

US

Dark pink in color, this wine is marked by a nutty layering of light acidity and orange, Gravenstein apple and cherry flavors. It's delicate yet has enough stuffing and structure to pair with a wide array of dishes.

91

25

California

Pinot Noir

26,062

France

From vines in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers, the wine is fresh, fruity and light. It has red-currant flavors that are bright and crisp. It's perfumed by the Cabernet Franc that dominates the blend. Drink from 2018.

84

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

40,857

US

Bursts of tropical citrus, mango and melon abound from nose to finish in this forward,fruity off-dry Riesling. Its uncomplicated fruitiness is a bit reminiscent of mixed-fruit cocktail, but it's juicy and approachable for a wide audience. Drink now through 2018.

87

16

New York

Riesling

115,383

US

Blackberry pie stars in this soft, grippy estate wine, held in both French and American oak, only a third of it new. Integrated tannins provide an approachability, along with a strong suggestion of leather.

88

40

California

Cabernet Franc

51,890

US

This blend of Roussanne, Chardonnay and Viognier is a wine of tremendous interest and complexity. While it's quite dry, it shows powerful flavors, but is not a bomb, with the voluptuous, flowery fruitiness retreating into firmer minerals in the finish. Sweet oak is present in the most exacting balance. An exciting experiment in control and verve from this distinguished winery.

94

50

California

White Blend

107,671

Spain

Baked, rooty aromas of sandalwood, exotic spices and berry fruits are attractive. Though slightly grabby on the palate, this shows the right structure and build. Flavors of up-front oak, herbal plum and raspberry finish dry, with firm, pinching tannins. Drink through 2021.

90

20

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

20,534

France

The lightest touch of wood gives this wine a full, rich character. Weight and density are balanced by the intense acidity. Melon, apricots and citrus are all blended in this ripe wine. Drink from 2018.

90

80

Burgundy

Chardonnay

86,890

Australia

Standard stuff, done right. Smoke and toast aromas add nuance to scents of citrus and peach. Hints of vanilla and baking spices buttress apple and pear flavors. The wine finishes with fresh, lemony notes. This is textbook Chardonnay.

87

18

South Australia

Chardonnay

9,027

US

Ken Wright produces more than a dozen single-vineyard Pinots in any given vintage. This wine, which sells for a fraction of the cost of those wines, uses many of the same grapes. It's an astonishing value, lushly fruited, tangy and laced with appealing minerality. The mix of red fruits, earth, acid and mineral is a perfect encapsulation of the pricier cuvées' strengths.

91

25

Oregon

Pinot Noir

11,868

US

Black cherry pie, milk chocolate and lilacs combine for a very accessible and rather lavish nose on this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. It's easy to like on the sip, with candied purple fruit and licorice spice flavors, proving very fruity, lush and quaffable.

90

35

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

107,703

US

This is a clear, light wine, aged lightly in oak, only 30% of it new. Wild brush and burnt orange dominate in taste and aroma, with additional characteristics of rhubarb, red cherry and lovely rose.

91

68

California

Pinot Noir

66,866

US

The Paso producer heads a bit north to produce this wine. Aromas suggest browned butter, lemon slices, pan-seared peach and a bit of smoke, with some steely aromatic backbone. The palate is consumed by lemon blossoms and buttered toast.

89

28

California

Chardonnay

77,537

US

This broad-shouldered, burly and feral wine is ripe with smoky cherry and vanilla notes. Smoothly textured, it imparts dusty leather and black licorice accents amid a serious slathering of oak.

88

75

California

Syrah

111,464

Italy

Fragrant purple flowers, dark berries and a whiff of baking spices lead the nose of this medium-bodied red. The round, soft palate offers black cherry, vanilla, milk chocolate and cinnamon alongside smooth, polished tannins. A confectionary note signals the close.

88

25

Tuscany

Red Blend

69,786

US

Primarily sourced from vineyards on Howell Mountain and within Napa Valley's Glass Mountain area, this wine aims to take its cues from Bordeaux, according to the producer. It's soft and revelatory in cinnamon and black-pepper spiciness, with black currant on the palate. It finishes in chewing tobacco and tar.

86

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

6,479

US

From the prestigious Rutherford appellation comes this soft, smooth and mellow Cabernet, with delicious flavors of black cherry, cola and beef teriyaki. It shows just a trace of bitterness on the finish, so drink soon.

91

36

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

38,809

Italy

Here's a savory Chianti from the Senesi hills that offers offers bright cherry and strawberry sensations with hints of white pepper. It's fresh, zesty and made to be enjoyed young. Pair this with a variety of pasta dishes or pecorino cheese.

88

15

Tuscany

Sangiovese

2,190

US

Slightly sour Meyer-lemon-pith aromas meet with honeysuckle and yellow pear on the nose of this bottling by veteran Bob Lindquist. There is a strong sizzle of acidity on the sip, where green-apple flavors meet with tart nectarine and lime-peel zip. It's very fresh and food-friendly.

89

20

California

Chardonnay

37,711

US

Preserved red-cherry and strawberry notes penetrate throughout this ripe, full-bodied Pinot Noir. Bright acidity and hints of brambly wood, baking spice and florals on the palate add complexity and balance.

85

29

New York

Pinot Noir

89,843

US

This is a heavy-duty wine, layered with power and richness. The nose shows black cherries, prunes and gingerbread, inviting like a hot dessert. The palate is soft, deep and mouth-massaging with the blackest of cherries and bluest of berries, though lifted with licorice, espresso and fudge elements. Serve with hearty roasts.

92

45

California

Syrah

15,636

US

The Gun Metal red is a Bordeaux-style blend—a smooth, seamless mix of spicy red fruits with new barrel highlights of coffee grounds, toasted walnuts and baking spices. There's a lick of citrus running through it also, a testament to the natural acidity that adds life and lift to Washington state reds.

92

39

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

101,957

US

Opening aromas blend earthy red fruits with a whiff of leather. It's a nicely sculpted wine, tight and stiff, with pleasant berry and cherry flavors that stop abruptly as the finish turns a bit sour.

87

33

Oregon

Pinot Noir

74,682

US

The texture is smooth and velvety on this Zinfandel, but the flavors are off. You'll find ripe blackberry jam and currants right next to overripe raisins. Enormously high alcohol makes this wine taste like a fruity, simple port.

84

30

California

Zinfandel

43,987

US

Raw, common and unripe, with vegetal and bizarrely sweet blackberry candy notes. A tough but serviceable blend of seven popular varieties.

82

15

California

Red Blend

103,652

US

This is the winery's top brut, and what a gorgeous wine it is. Blended equally with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it shows lime, tangerine and strawberry flavors that are subtle and rich. The mousse is very fine, giving it a silky texture. Beautiful to drink now.

93

65

California

Sparkling Blend

59,731

Germany

While the nose is quite neutral, the palate of this off-dry Riesling boasts ripe, concentrated peach and apricot flavors bolstered by sunny lemon acidity. Juicy and mouthwatering, it's a lively sip to be enjoyed young.

88

15

Mosel

Riesling

78,183

US

Made from several high-class sites, including Hyde Vineyard and Beckstoffer's Carneros Lake/Las Amigas Vineyard, this is a cooler-climate, 100% varietal wine. Juicy in crisp red fruit, it also has elements of pencil lead and cedar, giving an edginess of savory complexity that's interesting and long-lasting.

90

72

California

Merlot

73,495

France

Ripe and richly fruity, the wine is full bodied with great acidity as well as firm tannins. It will keep for many years. Bold tannins and a fine tension between the fruit and acidity are all promising for the future. Drink this impressive wine from 2025.

94

120

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

19,772

US

This well-made, well-priced wine over-delivers in terms of quality. Smoky cherry and plum accentuate the toasted oak, as a sturdy foundation of tannin gives it power and strength. The savory finish mixes forest and tea.

90

27

California

Pinot Noir

66,118

Italy

Aromas of dark-skinned fruit, clove and anise come together in the glass. The straightforward, tangy palate delivers red cherry and ground pepper alongside vibrant acidity and soft tannins.

87

22

Piedmont

Barbera

57,193

US

Too sweet for balance, with sugary flavors of blackberry and cherry jam. The sweetness accentuates the tannins, making them more astringent and rustic than they really are.

83

25

California

Syrah

41,348

France

This is a smooth and soft wine with attractive white-fruit aromas and bold acidity. It's finely textured with juicy, fresh apple and pear flavors. It is ready to drink now, but will age over the medium term.

87

32

Burgundy

Chardonnay

43,939

France

Typical of the Ayala style, this is almost bone dry. It has crisp acidity and a light touch on the fresh strawberry and raspberry flavors. Its success also comes from the mineral texture that gives structure to this food-friendly wine.

88

70

Champagne

Champagne Blend

113,694

US

A lovely wine to have at picnics, on the beach, backyard barbecues, even at the table with everything from fried calamari and goat cheese to roast pork and fresh fruit. Completely dry and racy in acids, it shows intense, nervy flavors of citrus fruits and zest, with spicy notes of medjool dates.

90

12

California

Pinot Grigio

88,005

US

Light and forward, this pure Cabernet offers pretty strawberry fruit and soft tannins. Easy drinking, it's built for near-term consumption.

86

22

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

40,422

US

Although the 2010 vintage was cooler than the previous two years, this Chardonnay still offers rich and luscious notes of crème caramel and baked pear. The intoxicating bouquet picks up layers of lemon zest and mineral.

92

34

California

Chardonnay

80,061

US

At almost five years of age, this wine is mellow, smooth and incredibly good. It shows classic Cabernet flavors of blackberries and sweet cassis liqueur. It is beautifully concentrated with ripe fruit just starting to develop interesting, aged characteristics. Just beautiful for drinking now, and should continue to evolve in the bottle for at least six more years.

93

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

20,182

France

This is an elegant, smooth wine that draws out the freshness of the vintage as much as the fruitiness. It has ripe, soft tannins, juicy red-fruit flavors and an intriguing smokiness. With acidity holding the wine in check, it should age well. Drink from 2017.

90

33

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

11,055

US

This unfined and unfiltered wine carries itself lightly, as is appropriate to the vintage and the grape. It's clean and delicate, with light raspberry fruit and hints of leaf and dried herb.

89

30

Oregon

Pinot Noir

128,376

US

A striking and flavorful wine, this bottling shows a little more spicy oak than most of the Renwoods, giving a slightly sweet cinnamon accent to the vivid blackberry and strawberry syrup flavors. The fruit character is powerful and delicious, seemingly seeping out of the wine in all directions. It's dry, full bodied, firm textured and will drink nicely now through 2020.

93

40

California

Zinfandel

4,811

Italy

Simple, clean and fresh, this no-fuss Pinot Grigio would pair nicely against Chinese take-out or an outdoor salad lunch. It shows clean aromas of citrus and white peach.

85

14

Veneto

Pinot Grigio

58,895

Spain

This wine leads with tire rubber, bacon, forest floor, juniper and blackberry aromas, requiring as much air or time as you can give. In the mouth, it's hard, tannic and almost astringent. A mix of oak and herb-laced black fruit flavors finishes long, with plenty of energy and power in reserve. Drink 2018–2027.

93

85

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

106,809

France

This wine is refreshing, its red fruit juice laced with acidity and a touch of herbs. Easy and light to drink.

85

16

Provence

Rosé

78,203

US

Smoky in toasted oak, this textured, layered wine has a full body and considerable length, highlighted by chocolate mocha and black cherry.

90

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

101,577

US

In this new vintage of Sorella, Cabernet Sauvignon is again right out front at 72% of the blend. Here the fruit seems more subdued, the wine tight, the dense tannins showing graphite and mineral more than new barrel flavors. It definitely needs decanting.

96

64

Washington

Red Blend

62,005

US

Marked by brisk, citrusy acidity, this Pinot Grigio has orange, Meyer lemon and sweet green-grass flavors. It would pair well with Chinese and Vietnamese food.

86

21

California

Pinot Grigio

18,423

US

This affordable Chard is a wonderful food wine. It's dry, brisk in acidity and clean, with nice varietal flavors of pineapples, oranges, pears and limes. Oak treatment adds a just right touch of vanilla and buttered toast, while brisk acidity makes it all bright and zesty. Easy to find, with 13,200 cases produced.

91

25

California

Chardonnay

83,354

US

A subtle, complex, utterly distinctive mix of flavors, with opening streaks of butter cookie, then mushroom broth, tightly wound berry fruit, earthy coffee grounds and even darker streaks of espresso and smoke and licorice. It is deeply layered with flavors that just keep piling on. Amazing wine.

98

70

Washington

Syrah

53,880

US

This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), Syrah (30%), Merlot (18%), and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of pencil lead, raspberries, flowers, baking spices and herbs are followed by palate-coating red and blue-fruit flavors. It displays a lovely sense of balance.

90

21

Washington

Red Blend

114,687

US

This cuvée is a barrel selection, fermented with whole berries and aged in 35% new oak. Simple strawberry and raspberry fruit seems almost weightless, and the quick finish carries a strong streak of bouillon.

86

40

Oregon

Pinot Noir

17,429

US

You can taste the warm sunshine in the spicy berry flavors of this Zin. It comes right up to the edge of overripe, with suggestions of bitter raisins, then pulls back to let the cassis and cherry liqueur shine through.

87

33

California

Zinfandel

60,174

France

Bonnet was this family's winery in 1744. André Lurton took over in 1953 and in 2015, the third warmest year since 1900, his team created a wine with tropical fruits, mango and pineapple. This give this wine its ripe, perfumed character. It does have a crisp side as well, fresh with apple and citrus. The balance is just right, giving a refreshing, ready-to-drink wine.

88

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

77,356

US

Lightly pink in color with a hint of orange, this bottling, which includes 20% Grenache Blanc, shows rose petals and a touch of watermelon shaved ice on the shy nose. The palate is very steely, reserved and tense, with only hints of light strawberry emerging. The wine is more about texture than flavor.

87

18

California

Grenache

16,916

US

Pretty and polished, this Pinot is delicately structured, with a great burst of acidity and a dry, spicy finish. The raspberry, vanilla and toast flavors are a little thin, but pleasant and complex. It's ready to drink now.

86

24

California

Pinot Noir

35,333

Argentina

Winemakers Hélène Garcin and Patrice Levêque have coaxed a ton of character from 70-year-old Malbec and Cabernet vines, and the result is juicy but dark, with asphalt and tar aromas sitting in front of tight but generous black fruit (cassis and blackberry). Finishing notes of coffee, mocha and char leave you happy.

93

80

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

59,613

US

Flowery and balanced in crisp, dry flavors of lemon and pear, this wine takes its designation from the French word for fog, a nod to its cool-climate environs. Supple tannins and refined acidity round out the deal.

88

32

California

Chardonnay

113,788

US

A tasty tang of toasted oak adds a great top note to this full-flavored and full-bodied wine, so that it seems to build complexity from the bass notes of ripe pear, to the butter and cinnamon in the middle and up to the wrapping of spicy, smoky oak.

90

15

California

Chardonnay

115,274

Italy

Licorice, menthol, red berry and clove aromas carry over to the taut palate along with a tobacco note. Tightly wound fine-grained tannins provide firm support. Drink 2019–2027.

90

51

Piedmont

Nebbiolo