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
60,173	US	The high percentage of Cabernet Franc makes itself known in this wine with tobacco leaf and tomato skin aromas on the nose. The palate is dense, with black cherry and plum flavors. The gripping tannins turn a bit astringent on the finish. Try with steak or hamburgers.	84	24	New York	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
60,269	Italy	Polissena is loaded with sweet cherry and oak-driven aromas of spice, caramel and coco butter that underline the sophisticated wood aging process behind this Sangiovese. It's a modern wine with a cheerful personality and a plump, juicy center.	90	30	Tuscany	Sangiovese
35,311	US	The entry-level offering for Rajat Parr's luxury brand, this is barely noticeable on the nose, with mere hints of melon. On the palate, it's pleasantly Chardonnay-like but quite naked and flat in flavor.	85	38	California	Chardonnay
73,243	Italy	Aromas of dark berry, baked earth, game and forest floor come together in the glass. The palate offers ripe black cherry, crushed strawberry, mint, clove and white pepper alongside compacted tannins and fresh acidity. Give this another five or six years to unwind.	92	101	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
60,018	France	A funky earthy touch hovers on the nose before hints of nettle and lemon balm add an aromatic edge to lemon freshness. On the exquisitely dry palate, it is the vivid, bright and intense lemon freshness that takes over, but those earthier notes still flash up around the edges, adding interest and depth. They will unfurl more as time passes. While this is linear, incisive and precise now, it will truly shine with bottle age. Drink 2017–2037.	95	45	Alsace	Riesling
120,038	France	Rich and rounded in character, this is already a beautiful wine, from 80-year-old vines. A line of acidity shoots through the wine, giving a long lift to the green fruits and orange zest flavors. It does have weight and a generous texture that reveals itself slowly. Ripe apricots mingle with acidity and toast at the end. Drink from 2019.	94	112	Burgundy	Chardonnay
5,694	France	Coming from the same stable as Léoville las Cases in Saint-Julien, the wine is finely structured with firm tannins and dark fruit. Rich plum flavors are counterbalanced by solid tannins. It needs to age, so drink from 2018.	91	25	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
18,674	US	Marked by aggressive acidity and some dusty tannins, this Pinot is not showing well now. It's just too hard and tart. But the flavors are enormously ripe, and the finish is dry and silky and long. It all suggests cellaring to let the cherries, black raspberries and Dr. Pepper cola emerge from their tomb. Better after 2011.	92	45	California	Pinot Noir
56,662	US	The fruit for this 100% varietal wine comes from Cold Creek, Klipsun and Anna Marie vineyards. Herb, dark fruit, toast and raspberry aromas lead to tightly wound fruit flavors with a buttery top note. Its best days await. Enjoy after 2018.	91	41	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
83,818	France	A lively mousse is the starting point for this wine. It is intensely rich, dense and still young, with a soft background to the ripe white fruits that are cut with lime. From a vintage year whose wines need to age, this follows the pattern, so wait at least until 2018.	93	75	Champagne	Champagne Blend
119,267	US	Robust in tannins, with crisp, fruity acidity, this Cab has very ripe, jammy blackberry and cherry flavors that have seen their share of smoky oak. It's a good wine but an edgy one. Could develop in the bottle after a couple years.	87	45	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
116,693	Italy	Made with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this delicately fragrant wine offers alluring scents of dark-skinned berry, purple flower and a whiff of cedar. The bright light-bodied palate offers red currant and star anise framed in racy acidity and lithe tannins.	89	56	Tuscany	Red Blend
87,507	France	One of the two main cuvées from La Chablisienne, the wine is fresh, fruity while having a tight, mineral character and a cool, fragrant feel. It could age for a few months, but is a wine to drink soon.	87	22	Burgundy	Chardonnay
121,702	France	This is a ripe rounded wine, backed by the firm tannins that mark Pommard. It is bold, ripe with plenty of concentrated red fruits and finishing acidity. The wine has a crisp edge that lifts the tannins. Drink from 2023.	93	94	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
54,866	US	Intensely fruity on the nose, with spicy flavors that follow and expand across the palate. This has excellent grip and depth, along with balancing acidity and structure. Plum, kirsch and concentrated cherry flavors pop out. It's a wine of refined power.	94	90	Washington	Grenache
71,294	US	Ripe, dry and forward in fruit, with a soft texture, this Cab appeals now for its wealth of blackberries, cherries, plums, herbs and spices. It's a lovely wine that should be decanted for a few hours before serving.	89	32	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
97,466	France	The wine is all fruit: red berries and red currants bursting from the glass. The red wine used to give color has added an edge of tannic texture to the ripe fruitiness. In the house style of this producer, the wine is dry and crisp at the end. Drink now.	89	58	Champagne	Champagne Blend
21,530	France	A wine that is both fruity and almost approachable now, it is packed with the great structure of Pauillac Cabernet Sauvignon. It's rich and firmly tannic, layering plums and blackberries within a dark texture. This should be aged for at least five years.	92	95	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
43,149	US	Hugely delicious, just a joy to drink. So soft and velvety, so rich in blackberry jam, cassis and chocolate flavors, with the tannins so smooth and round. Really wonderful over the next few years, although the softness and high alcohol suggest it's not an ager.	93	66	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
104,586	US	A new, lower-priced cuvée for DDO, this uses both estate and purchased grapes. Chocolaty, soft and fresh, it is a graceful wine with generous raspberry and cherry fruit. Moderate acidity leads into flavors that are elegant and bright, with a gentle, lingering finish. Let it breathe for at least an hour for best results.	90	32	Oregon	Pinot Noir
76,379	US	Enormously extracted fruit marks this wine. It's technically dry and wonderfully brisk in acidity, but so rich in raspberry jam, brown sugar and oak, it's remarkably lush in style.	86	40	California	Pinot Noir
92,635	US	Whitcraft has produced a fine, complex young Syrah from the Stolpman Vineyard, in the emerging Ballard Canyon Region. The wine is tannic, with deep flavors of blackberries, red and black currants, grilled meat, tobacco, wild herbs, black pepper and cedar wood. While it's a bit hot in alcohol, it seems balanced enough to age, allowing the tannins and other elements resolve. Try after 2015.	91	42	California	Syrah
89,548	US	Here is an austere Pinot Noir that's both elegant and high-toned. The flavors mix black cherry and blueberry, while the finish is blithely earthy and herbal. A nice choice for mealtimes of an equally elegant nature, or an easy lunch of BLTs.	90	45	California	Pinot Noir
22,674	US	Made at an attractive price point, this wine delivers value and plenty of flavor, from blackberry jam to oak and black pepper. It's sturdy and structured, ready for the table or larger gathering.	90	24	California	Merlot
49,755	Italy	Aromas of wild berry, violet and a hint of Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. The structured palate offers mature black cherry, a hint of orange zest and cooking spice alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.	88	22	Tuscany	Red Blend
88,145	Italy	Here is a fresh and straightforward expression of Pinot Grigio with vibrant notes of exotic fruit, papaya and pear. In the mouth, the wine tastes lean, crisp and very cooling.	86	12	Northeastern Italy	Pinot Grigio
35,204	Germany	Musky rose and melon scents meld into slightly confectionery pastry tones on the nose of this aromatic Riesling. The palate is brisk and dry, but nectarine and peach flavors penetrate deeply. Cool strikes of acid and minerality accentuate the finish. Drink now through 2019.	91	42	Mosel	Riesling
8,250	US	Flavors of rich, ripe blackberry jam, mocha and toast are wrapped into firm but refined tannins in this Cabernet. The most basic of the winery's Cabs, and the first of the vintage to be released, it's drinking well now and bodes well for the coming 2011 reserves and blends.	89	30	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
94,143	US	Longtime San Francisco Giant Rich Aurilia teams with fellow baseballer Dave Roberts to produce a wine with restrained, focused aromas of black cherry, pencil shavings, sarsaparilla and hints of allspice. The palate is all about black gravel and turned loam, with tiny bits of black cherry and noticeably firm tannins.	93	54	California	Pinot Noir
23,423	US	There's a tannic flatness to this 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 12% Malbec and 12% Petit Verdot blended in. The crunchy blackberry and cassis fall somewhat flat on the palate.	82	32	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
69,207	US	Shows everything great about its vintage and terroir. It's a strong, young Pinot Noir, rich in tannins and dense in almost jammy blackberries, cherries and chocolaty cola that are delicious in and of themselves. As good as it is, this is a wine that wants some time to integrate and mellow. Give it until 2011, if you can.	93	40	California	Pinot Noir
58,161	France	Attractive red fruits and soft tannins make this ripe, lightly structured wine easy to drink. There are hints of herbs and red berry fruits, with a touch of dryness on the finish. Drink now.	84	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
103,318	US	A little on the soft side, with candied raspberry, cherry and cola flavors, but at this price, it's a decent starter Pinot Noir for those who are curious about this red-hot variety but don't want to spend a bundle. Enjoy the silkiness and spice.	86	13	California	Pinot Noir
105,288	Argentina	Dry and short on fruit, with strong barrel aromas of pepper, cinnamon and resin. In the mouth, there's more wood than fruit, leaving heat, vanilla and spice to overshadow mild strawberry/raspberry flavors. What's best about the wine is the mouthfeel; it's round and creamy, with length. Anyone averse to forward oak should steer clear of Utopía.	85	20	Mendoza Province	Malbec
44,966	US	The 8.3 designation refers to the residual sugar by weight. It is indeed a very sweet wine, rich in simple honey, orange and apricot flavors.	85	15	California	Riesling
2,682	France	Givry is one of the unsung values in Burgundy. This ripe and structured wine shows why. It has weight, a firm texture and red plum and strawberry fruit flavors. All these elements are held together by a dark sense of tannin and fine acidity.	90	35	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
18,531	US	One would like to see more aromatics, considering the variety, but it remains enjoyable with a lightly spritzy palate with off-dry red-apple and stone-fruit flavors. A straightforward, easy drinker.	87	16	Washington	Riesling
87,653	Italy	This opens with aromas of forest floor, mature dark-skinned fruit and leather. The hearty palate offers raisin, dried black currant, clove and tobacco alongside tightly wound tannins that leave a firm finish.	89	49	Veneto	Red Blend
4,486	US	A touch of yogurt meets with flint, smoke, sandalwood, charred wood and grilled pineapple on the nose of this bottling. It is tightly wound and tense on the palate, where yellow-apple skins, grilled Asian pear and nectarine, sea salt, butter and smoke combine into tightly hewn sip.	91	32	California	Chardonnay
119,371	France	Made from 100% Pineau d'Aunis (a local grape that originated in Saumur in the 11th century) this is a soft wine. With attractive acidity, red-berry fruits and a gentle texture, the wine is ripe while keeping a backbone of mineral texture. Drink now.	86	13	Loire Valley	Rosé
14,575	France	This wine is firm and structured, with complex tannins and dark black-fruit flavors. Under the tannins, juicy fruit with considerable acidity gives signs of great potential. The aftertaste again comes back to the structure. Drink from 2019.	89	70	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
9,516	Spain	Riojas of this quality and price are not a dime a dozen. This ripe, delicious wine shows all the virtues of a great vintage. Earthy, roasted berry aromas are pure, ripe and magnetic. This feels full, tannic and strapping, while flavors of cassis, blackberry and chocolate are supported by generous but appropriate oak. Mocha, espresso and black-fruit residuals grace a fine finish. Drink through 2022.	92	25	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
52,633	Italy	A liquid lullaby more than a wine, this Brunello caresses and smoothes over your senses with amazing intensity and harmonious aromas of cherry-chocolate fudge, almond paste, ginger, balsamic notes, blueberry pie, firewood and vanilla. There's a shroud of cedar and cherry fruit within the wine's unwavering structure and a seemingly endless finish.	95	60	Tuscany	Sangiovese
33,738	US	This has a hard shell keeping it closed down, despite hours of airing. Cranberry fruit with a hint of mineral seems to quickly hit a wall and stop short. More bottle age may help to open it up a bit.	86	55	Oregon	Pinot Noir
47,903	US	Intensely aromatic, this carries a wealth of layered flavors consistent with past vintages. Umami, sea salt, mineral and Provençal herbs comingle, with a rich component of raspberry, plum and cherry compôte. More layers appear through the finish, with orange liqueur and a whiff of tanned leather.	96	90	Oregon	Grenache
88,250	France	This is a grassy, herbal wine with green and crisp citrus fruits. It is of course very young and its exuberant fruitiness will be better when it all calms down. The acidity and hint of apricots give the promise of a richer fuller future. Drink from 2017.	89	22	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
54,327	US	It's bone dry, acidic and tannic in youth, but with a solid core of black cherries and red currants, and the oak has been subtlely applied. Give it until 2019–2020.	90	49	California	Pinot Noir
18,621	Spain	Rooty initial aromas veer toward animal and stalky berry fruits as this unfolds. Raw, hard and leathery in feel, this turns out to be low on ripeness as leafy, stalky flavors take over before ending salty, with firm tannins.	83	10	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
125,925	US	Give this young Pinot 3–4 years to begin to develop, and possibly far longer before the fruit fades away. Right now, it's tannic and closed, despite sweet, ripe cherry, raspberry and cola flavors. It shows firm acidity and a fine jacket of oak that has not yet been integrated with the fruit. So intense and powerful, it's hard to believe the alcohol is a low 13.2% by volume.	92	36	California	Pinot Noir
107,419	US	This is interesting—a California take on Oregon Pinot Noir. It's sleek and spicy, with a racy spine and a very tart, dry mouthfeel. The fruit is peppery and hard; like hard candy with an herbal streak. The wine hides its almost 15% alcohol quite well, but it will reward ample breathing time.	89	48	Oregon	Pinot Noir
357	France	Produced from vines more than 100 years old in the heart of the Clos de Vougeot vineyard, this is an impressive wine with a long future. The wood aging is already surrounded by ripe, intense black fruits. A fresher character comes from the bright acidity of the vintage, giving the wine a lift. The aftertaste is long and concentrated. Drink from 2024.	95	350	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
19,003	France	Overripe, jammy fruit aromas and flavors spoil this wine. It's oddly balanced: soft on the one hand and tough on the other.	84	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
36,708	Spain	If you catch this wine young and properly chilled, it isn't that bad. It's very sweet and sugary, with candied melon, mango and citrus flavors. Then it gets more tropical on the finish, with ending notes of banana and mango. On the verge of tasting fake but not quite.	84	9	Northern Spain	White Blend
94,434	US	Soft in texture, this Zin has flavors of freshly crushed, ripe blackberries, cherries and raspberries, cocoa and black pepper, with a burnt brown-butter, baked pastry crust edge. It's pretty tannic, which makes it a good foil for rich meats and cheeses. Decant for an hour or two.	88	32	California	Zinfandel
121,809	US	Petit Verdot makes up a full 62% of this wine, with the rest Merlot (18%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Malbec (5%) and Cabernet Franc. The aromas offer notes of blackberry, Fruit Roll-Ups, herb, dark soil and flower. The palate brings cherry flavors, bright acids and chewy tannins. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.	92	50	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
49,409	France	This is a crisp wine, full of acidity. It holds the potential of crisp green and citrus fruits that are developing. A nutty edge contrasts with the tense acidity. Drink from late 2017.	88	10	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
21,932	Portugal	A heavy, powerful wine, with very concentrated tannins. Flavors of licorice, bitter chocolate and black plums give a sense of richness and opulence. Still young, the aromas are yeasty, but these should open up for a rich, dense wine.	90	23	Douro	Portuguese Red
26,337	US	Minty sage and cedar dot the aromatic profile of this wine that is holding on to tannin and oak with a fierce stubbornness. Tart cherry, pomegranate and blueberry give it a fruity mélange, accented by subtle rose petal and violet.	86	46	California	Pinot Noir
10,358	US	Ripe aromas of cherry, spice and licorice pop, with the warmth of the vintage—along with just-in-check volatiles—showing. The cranberry and green herb flavors are tart and full, yet still show some elegance and persistence.	87	32	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
79,633	Spain	Rooty smelling, with cola, sarsparilla, spiced meats and leafy berry aromas. The palate is plump and soft but healthy, with round, sweet berry fruit flavors and ample spice. A generous wine that's hefty, broad and ready to drink. Impressive given that its run is 45,000 cases.	89	29	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
47,027	France	Impressively ripe fruit, with smoky flavors from wood, the texture sweet and fleshy. The wine has juicy berry flavors, with the freshest acidity, livened with spice from the fruit and the oak aging. Worth aging for 5–10 years.	90	55	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
104,647	US	Soft and supple, this Pinot has pleasant flavors of Dr. Pepper cola, raspberries, red cherries and smoky oak. It makes for pleasant drinking now.	86	17	California	Pinot Noir
73,132	Italy	Aromas of iris, violet and dark berry slowly take shape in the glass. The firm palate offers fleshy black cherry, plum, espresso, tobacco and a hint of vanilla alongside firm tannins. Drink through 2019.	90	28	Tuscany	Red Blend
101,804	US	Very good and delicious, if not quite up there with the warmer vintages of 2007 and 2008. The winemaker has done a yeoman's job with this wine—considering the difficult vintage—coaxing out pleasant raspberry- and cherry-jam flavors.The finish is dry and spicy. Drink now.	88	65	California	Pinot Noir
6,285	US	Insanely rich and opulent, brimming with apricot and tangerine jam, green-apple butter, pineapple tart, vanilla, honeysuckle, buttered toast and spice flavors. Somehow, the mass is reined in by a tight framework of acids, minerals and oak tannins. This shows the pedigree that comes from this famous vineyard, as well as the Williams Selyem signature of extreme class and deliciousness. Drink over the next five years.	94	55	California	Chardonnay
29,326	US	The vineyard is in Rutherford, and the wine shows the dusty tannins that this commune is famous for. They're an integral part of the palate experience, along with lush, plush blackberry, plum, charred meat, dark chocolate, black pepper and anise flavors. Impressive for the way it tackles Petite Sirah's rustic character and imposes true Napa elegance. Drink now–2017.	92	45	California	Petite Sirah
13,345	US	A low-priced everyday Chard of sophistication and elegance. It's dry and wonderfully crisp, with subtlely oaked flavors of pineapples, peaches, green apples, pears and kiwis. Easy to find, with more than 12,000 cases produced.	86	13	California	Chardonnay
75,900	US	California's Cameron Hughes dips a toe into Oregon waters with this quite drinkable Willamette Valley Pinot. It floats light cherry fruit around some woody, herbal, stiff tannins. There's a nice touch of cinnamon spice ringing through the finish.	87	25	Oregon	Pinot Noir
112,941	France	Crisp and taut, this Lobre family wine is on a tight rope. It balances between intense citrus acidity and riper apricot and pear favors. It will be better from late 2017.	87	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
69,992	US	Very ripe and forward Cabernet, with jammy blackberry and cherry, spice and earthy flavors, as well as lots of sweet, toasty oak. It's satisfying to drink now.	87	25	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
30,093	France	In this warm and ripe effort, the flavors of red currants and plums work with the underlying tannins and acidity. This has just the right weight, making for a wine that has attractive fruitiness and light tannins.	87	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
123,124	US	Awkward, with sweet, pie-filling cherry and black raspberry flavors that have an edge of raisins, and a sharp finish. Drink now.	84	28	California	Pinot Noir
26,527	US	Pale to the point of being Pinot-esque, this wine draws you in with its aromas of earth, cigar box, crushed flowers, herb and sour cherry. The palate is ethereally light and elegant, fully of savory flavors and made in a transparent style. It might be too elegant for some tastes but others will swoon.	93	45	Washington	Sangiovese
66,608	US	This is an affordable and refreshingly light-bodied Zin, bright and fresh in red berry and well-put together in terms of tannin and oak. Stock up for parties.	87	18	California	Zinfandel
75,766	US	Tastes a bit sweet and jammy in sour cherry candy flavors, with high acidity giving it some sting. Doesn't seem likely to improve, so drink now.	84	40	California	Merlot
86,752	US	This is a luxuriously layered and complex white. It's an expertly rendered combination of ripe, rich fruit—most notably spicy apple and pear—that's completely uplifted by bright acidity and a refreshing mouthfeel. Still youthful, it's both vibrant and nuanced.	92	30	California	Chardonnay
33,601	US	This is a very pure Pinot Noir. It shows its origins in the silky mouthfeel and crisp acidity, as well as a certain minerality that grounds the raspberry, cherry and cola flavors. It's quite good, but not an ager, so drink soon.	88	44	California	Pinot Noir
6,028	US	Starts off with softly perfumed cherries and dried leaves, then turns strongly piny on the palate. Finishes long, with tart cranberry and bitter-chocolate notes. Some excellent elements, including a lush yet structured mouthfeel, but some tasters will find the intense pine-bough flavor distracting.	89	38	Oregon	Pinot Noir
24,278	Spain	The nectarine and mild vanilla aromas are subdued yet solid. On the palate, it's all about stone fruit flavors, such as peach and nectarine, with apple and cider notes on the balanced and healthy finish.	87	15	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
120,216	Italy	Rose, red berry, baked earth, forest floor and grilled herb aromas lead the nose while the firm palate offers dried black cherry, cake spice and anise. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the backbone. Drink 2018–2026.	90	50	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
84,483	France	Owned by Château Larose Trintaudon, this wine comes from the same plateau west of Pauillac. It is well made, bringing out ripe fruit and generous black-cherry flavors, with a touch of spice from wood aging. The tannins are dry, in the background and sufficient to allow the wine to age. Drink from 2018.	90	60	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
65,021	Italy	This is an oak-driven Brunello that imparts woodshop aromas of spice, toast, mesquite and vanilla. The wine offers loads of intensity in the mouth and gains momentum thanks to its thick, warming texture. Drink it after 2012 to allow time for those oak aromas to mellow.	88	65	Tuscany	Sangiovese Grosso
121,890	US	A vital, focused Cabernet, this shows the sheer classiness of Oakville in its concentrated blackberry and black currant fruit. It's seemingly sweet and dry at the same time, and the tannins, which are extraordinarily thick, are fine and pure. Irresistably delicious now, this changes in the glass by the second. It suggests it wants some time in the cellar, so drink now–2021.	96	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
55,389	France	This wine shows some maturity, with toast flavors coming through the creamy mousse. White stone fruit and streaks of citrus give a fresher end to this well-balanced wine.	88	22	Burgundy	Chardonnay
117,488	France	As fresh as it comes, this is crisp and clean rosé, ready for summer aperitifs. Bright red berries cut through a warmer texture and bring acidity with them. There's an attractive lively finish.	90	28	Provence	Rosé
12,110	US	Coming from the original plantings at this esteemed vineyard, this wine brings brooding, high-toned aromas of savory herbs, exotic spice and cherry. The palate is all about sophistication and delicacy of flavor, showing nuance and detail, particularly considering the warmth of the vintage.	90	72	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
22,793	Spain	Blackberry, black cherry, earth and rubbery scents create a blunt, dense bouquet. This is round and full in body, with solid tannins balanced by fleshy, fruity depth. Dark plum, cassis and raspberry flavors linger on an earthy finish with toast and cola notes. Best enjoyed 2017–2022	91	30	Northern Spain	Tempranillo Blend
75,283	US	Spicy new-oak flavors dominate the modest fruit notes in this over-worked wine, knocking it off balance.	84	15	California	Pinot Noir
59,971	US	This is Watermill's five-grape, Bordeaux-style blend, built upon a solid foundation of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon. All the fruit is estate-grown, and the blend is smooth and well-integrated. The tightly packed, cassis fruit is framed with peppery tannins, and the wine has good definition and moderate length.	90	35	Oregon	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
59,409	US	This wine is hugely robust in concentration and power, a study in mountain-grown brambly berry and serious tannin. Bark, pencil and a wealth of spiced plum form the core of its character, with secondary elements of cherry and cigar box coming into play over time. Enjoy best beginning in 2024 through 2034.	94	110	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
44,899	US	This wine is flavorful and sturdy. Full bodied enough to accompany rich dishes, it's affordable, too. It has butter and caramel aromas, an almost thick, syrupy texture and firm tannins. Moderate cherry flavors accompany the oaky components.	86	16	California	Pinot Noir
17,114	France	A firm, still young wine, wearing its tannins right up front. The berry and black plum fruits are there in the background along with considerable weight. The wine, rich and full, will develop over the next 2–3 years.	88	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
74,575	Italy	This plush Syrah opens with a pretty ruby color and thick, almost syrupy, tones of blueberry and raspberry. The fruit aromas are followed by spice and roasted almonds and the wine is succulent and chewy to the very end.	88	16	Sicily & Sardinia	Syrah
15,183	US	Made in the popular Chardonnay style, this shows buttered toast, buttercream, pineapple, mango and exotic spice flavors. Drink this rich wine now.	87	20	California	Chardonnay
76,535	Portugal	This wine is spicy with ripe tannins and juicy berry fruits. It is soft and ready to drink with its balanced fruitiness and acidity.	87	55	Douro	Portuguese Red
70,317	US	Dryness marks this elegant Pinot Noir, a remarkable feat since the strawberry and raspberry fruit is so opulently ripe. With fresh acidity, firm tannins and a touch of minerals, it's a wonderful expression of Santa Rita fruit.	93	30	California	Pinot Noir
104,116	France	Just north of Saint-Tropez, this large estate has produced a rounded fruity wine. It has a soft crushed strawberry flavor that is balanced by attractive generous acidity. The wine is ready to drink.	87	15	Provence	Rosé
48,704	Argentina	Opens with jammy aromas but it's also stewed and stalky. The palate is resiny and tannic, which means it's grabby. Tastes a bit leafy and burnt, with spiced, roasted red plum flavors. Offers mostly oak spice and heat on the finish.	84	13	Mendoza Province	Malbec
46,473	Italy	This bold, balanced wine opens with classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, dried tobacco leaf, red berries, blue flower and a waft of leather. The juicy palate shows depth, delivering ripe wild cherry accented with white pepper, licorice and a mineral note alongside solid but refined tannins. Drink 2016–2024.	92	85	Tuscany	Sangiovese
7,879	US	This collaboration between American winemakers Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton and Japanese entrepreneur Takahide Sugimoto is stunningly high-toned and buttoned-up at first, with sour cream, yogurt, crushed ant, gunmetal, flint and quinine elements on the nose. The palate is complex and fascinating, with chalk and cement minerality bolstered by lime blossom, kumquat and tonic that opens graciously with time. Drink 2016–2026.	94	58	California	Chardonnay

60,173

US

The high percentage of Cabernet Franc makes itself known in this wine with tobacco leaf and tomato skin aromas on the nose. The palate is dense, with black cherry and plum flavors. The gripping tannins turn a bit astringent on the finish. Try with steak or hamburgers.

84

24

New York

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

60,269

Italy

Polissena is loaded with sweet cherry and oak-driven aromas of spice, caramel and coco butter that underline the sophisticated wood aging process behind this Sangiovese. It's a modern wine with a cheerful personality and a plump, juicy center.

90

30

Tuscany

Sangiovese

35,311

US

The entry-level offering for Rajat Parr's luxury brand, this is barely noticeable on the nose, with mere hints of melon. On the palate, it's pleasantly Chardonnay-like but quite naked and flat in flavor.

85

38

California

Chardonnay

73,243

Italy

Aromas of dark berry, baked earth, game and forest floor come together in the glass. The palate offers ripe black cherry, crushed strawberry, mint, clove and white pepper alongside compacted tannins and fresh acidity. Give this another five or six years to unwind.

92

101

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

60,018

France

A funky earthy touch hovers on the nose before hints of nettle and lemon balm add an aromatic edge to lemon freshness. On the exquisitely dry palate, it is the vivid, bright and intense lemon freshness that takes over, but those earthier notes still flash up around the edges, adding interest and depth. They will unfurl more as time passes. While this is linear, incisive and precise now, it will truly shine with bottle age. Drink 2017–2037.

95

45

Alsace

Riesling

120,038

France

Rich and rounded in character, this is already a beautiful wine, from 80-year-old vines. A line of acidity shoots through the wine, giving a long lift to the green fruits and orange zest flavors. It does have weight and a generous texture that reveals itself slowly. Ripe apricots mingle with acidity and toast at the end. Drink from 2019.

94

112

Burgundy

Chardonnay

5,694

France

Coming from the same stable as Léoville las Cases in Saint-Julien, the wine is finely structured with firm tannins and dark fruit. Rich plum flavors are counterbalanced by solid tannins. It needs to age, so drink from 2018.

91

25

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

18,674

US

Marked by aggressive acidity and some dusty tannins, this Pinot is not showing well now. It's just too hard and tart. But the flavors are enormously ripe, and the finish is dry and silky and long. It all suggests cellaring to let the cherries, black raspberries and Dr. Pepper cola emerge from their tomb. Better after 2011.

92

45

California

Pinot Noir

56,662

US

The fruit for this 100% varietal wine comes from Cold Creek, Klipsun and Anna Marie vineyards. Herb, dark fruit, toast and raspberry aromas lead to tightly wound fruit flavors with a buttery top note. Its best days await. Enjoy after 2018.

91

41

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

83,818

France

A lively mousse is the starting point for this wine. It is intensely rich, dense and still young, with a soft background to the ripe white fruits that are cut with lime. From a vintage year whose wines need to age, this follows the pattern, so wait at least until 2018.

93

75

Champagne

Champagne Blend

119,267

US

Robust in tannins, with crisp, fruity acidity, this Cab has very ripe, jammy blackberry and cherry flavors that have seen their share of smoky oak. It's a good wine but an edgy one. Could develop in the bottle after a couple years.

87

45

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

116,693

Italy

Made with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this delicately fragrant wine offers alluring scents of dark-skinned berry, purple flower and a whiff of cedar. The bright light-bodied palate offers red currant and star anise framed in racy acidity and lithe tannins.

89

56

Tuscany

Red Blend

87,507

France

One of the two main cuvées from La Chablisienne, the wine is fresh, fruity while having a tight, mineral character and a cool, fragrant feel. It could age for a few months, but is a wine to drink soon.

87

22

Burgundy

Chardonnay

121,702

France

This is a ripe rounded wine, backed by the firm tannins that mark Pommard. It is bold, ripe with plenty of concentrated red fruits and finishing acidity. The wine has a crisp edge that lifts the tannins. Drink from 2023.

93

94

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

54,866

US

Intensely fruity on the nose, with spicy flavors that follow and expand across the palate. This has excellent grip and depth, along with balancing acidity and structure. Plum, kirsch and concentrated cherry flavors pop out. It's a wine of refined power.

94

90

Washington

Grenache

71,294

US

Ripe, dry and forward in fruit, with a soft texture, this Cab appeals now for its wealth of blackberries, cherries, plums, herbs and spices. It's a lovely wine that should be decanted for a few hours before serving.

89

32

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

97,466

France

The wine is all fruit: red berries and red currants bursting from the glass. The red wine used to give color has added an edge of tannic texture to the ripe fruitiness. In the house style of this producer, the wine is dry and crisp at the end. Drink now.

89

58

Champagne

Champagne Blend

21,530

France

A wine that is both fruity and almost approachable now, it is packed with the great structure of Pauillac Cabernet Sauvignon. It's rich and firmly tannic, layering plums and blackberries within a dark texture. This should be aged for at least five years.

92

95

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

43,149

US

Hugely delicious, just a joy to drink. So soft and velvety, so rich in blackberry jam, cassis and chocolate flavors, with the tannins so smooth and round. Really wonderful over the next few years, although the softness and high alcohol suggest it's not an ager.

93

66

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

104,586

US

A new, lower-priced cuvée for DDO, this uses both estate and purchased grapes. Chocolaty, soft and fresh, it is a graceful wine with generous raspberry and cherry fruit. Moderate acidity leads into flavors that are elegant and bright, with a gentle, lingering finish. Let it breathe for at least an hour for best results.

90

32

Oregon

Pinot Noir

76,379

US

Enormously extracted fruit marks this wine. It's technically dry and wonderfully brisk in acidity, but so rich in raspberry jam, brown sugar and oak, it's remarkably lush in style.

86

40

California

Pinot Noir

92,635

US

Whitcraft has produced a fine, complex young Syrah from the Stolpman Vineyard, in the emerging Ballard Canyon Region. The wine is tannic, with deep flavors of blackberries, red and black currants, grilled meat, tobacco, wild herbs, black pepper and cedar wood. While it's a bit hot in alcohol, it seems balanced enough to age, allowing the tannins and other elements resolve. Try after 2015.

91

42

California

Syrah

89,548

US

Here is an austere Pinot Noir that's both elegant and high-toned. The flavors mix black cherry and blueberry, while the finish is blithely earthy and herbal. A nice choice for mealtimes of an equally elegant nature, or an easy lunch of BLTs.

90

45

California

Pinot Noir

22,674

US

Made at an attractive price point, this wine delivers value and plenty of flavor, from blackberry jam to oak and black pepper. It's sturdy and structured, ready for the table or larger gathering.

90

24

California

Merlot

49,755

Italy

Aromas of wild berry, violet and a hint of Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. The structured palate offers mature black cherry, a hint of orange zest and cooking spice alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.

88

22

Tuscany

Red Blend

88,145

Italy

Here is a fresh and straightforward expression of Pinot Grigio with vibrant notes of exotic fruit, papaya and pear. In the mouth, the wine tastes lean, crisp and very cooling.

86

12

Northeastern Italy

Pinot Grigio

35,204

Germany

Musky rose and melon scents meld into slightly confectionery pastry tones on the nose of this aromatic Riesling. The palate is brisk and dry, but nectarine and peach flavors penetrate deeply. Cool strikes of acid and minerality accentuate the finish. Drink now through 2019.

91

42

Mosel

Riesling

8,250

US

Flavors of rich, ripe blackberry jam, mocha and toast are wrapped into firm but refined tannins in this Cabernet. The most basic of the winery's Cabs, and the first of the vintage to be released, it's drinking well now and bodes well for the coming 2011 reserves and blends.

89

30

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

94,143

US

Longtime San Francisco Giant Rich Aurilia teams with fellow baseballer Dave Roberts to produce a wine with restrained, focused aromas of black cherry, pencil shavings, sarsaparilla and hints of allspice. The palate is all about black gravel and turned loam, with tiny bits of black cherry and noticeably firm tannins.

93

54

California

Pinot Noir

23,423

US

There's a tannic flatness to this 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 12% Malbec and 12% Petit Verdot blended in. The crunchy blackberry and cassis fall somewhat flat on the palate.

82

32

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

69,207

US

Shows everything great about its vintage and terroir. It's a strong, young Pinot Noir, rich in tannins and dense in almost jammy blackberries, cherries and chocolaty cola that are delicious in and of themselves. As good as it is, this is a wine that wants some time to integrate and mellow. Give it until 2011, if you can.

93

40

California

Pinot Noir

58,161

France

Attractive red fruits and soft tannins make this ripe, lightly structured wine easy to drink. There are hints of herbs and red berry fruits, with a touch of dryness on the finish. Drink now.

84

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

103,318

US

A little on the soft side, with candied raspberry, cherry and cola flavors, but at this price, it's a decent starter Pinot Noir for those who are curious about this red-hot variety but don't want to spend a bundle. Enjoy the silkiness and spice.

86

13

California

Pinot Noir

105,288

Argentina

Dry and short on fruit, with strong barrel aromas of pepper, cinnamon and resin. In the mouth, there's more wood than fruit, leaving heat, vanilla and spice to overshadow mild strawberry/raspberry flavors. What's best about the wine is the mouthfeel; it's round and creamy, with length. Anyone averse to forward oak should steer clear of Utopía.

85

20

Mendoza Province

Malbec

44,966

US

The 8.3 designation refers to the residual sugar by weight. It is indeed a very sweet wine, rich in simple honey, orange and apricot flavors.

85

15

California

Riesling

2,682

France

Givry is one of the unsung values in Burgundy. This ripe and structured wine shows why. It has weight, a firm texture and red plum and strawberry fruit flavors. All these elements are held together by a dark sense of tannin and fine acidity.

90

35

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

18,531

US

One would like to see more aromatics, considering the variety, but it remains enjoyable with a lightly spritzy palate with off-dry red-apple and stone-fruit flavors. A straightforward, easy drinker.

87

16

Washington

Riesling

87,653

Italy

This opens with aromas of forest floor, mature dark-skinned fruit and leather. The hearty palate offers raisin, dried black currant, clove and tobacco alongside tightly wound tannins that leave a firm finish.

89

49

Veneto

Red Blend

4,486

US

A touch of yogurt meets with flint, smoke, sandalwood, charred wood and grilled pineapple on the nose of this bottling. It is tightly wound and tense on the palate, where yellow-apple skins, grilled Asian pear and nectarine, sea salt, butter and smoke combine into tightly hewn sip.

91

32

California

Chardonnay

119,371

France

Made from 100% Pineau d'Aunis (a local grape that originated in Saumur in the 11th century) this is a soft wine. With attractive acidity, red-berry fruits and a gentle texture, the wine is ripe while keeping a backbone of mineral texture. Drink now.

86

13

Loire Valley

Rosé

14,575

France

This wine is firm and structured, with complex tannins and dark black-fruit flavors. Under the tannins, juicy fruit with considerable acidity gives signs of great potential. The aftertaste again comes back to the structure. Drink from 2019.

89

70

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

9,516

Spain

Riojas of this quality and price are not a dime a dozen. This ripe, delicious wine shows all the virtues of a great vintage. Earthy, roasted berry aromas are pure, ripe and magnetic. This feels full, tannic and strapping, while flavors of cassis, blackberry and chocolate are supported by generous but appropriate oak. Mocha, espresso and black-fruit residuals grace a fine finish. Drink through 2022.

92

25

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

52,633

Italy

A liquid lullaby more than a wine, this Brunello caresses and smoothes over your senses with amazing intensity and harmonious aromas of cherry-chocolate fudge, almond paste, ginger, balsamic notes, blueberry pie, firewood and vanilla. There's a shroud of cedar and cherry fruit within the wine's unwavering structure and a seemingly endless finish.

95

60

Tuscany

Sangiovese

33,738

US

This has a hard shell keeping it closed down, despite hours of airing. Cranberry fruit with a hint of mineral seems to quickly hit a wall and stop short. More bottle age may help to open it up a bit.

86

55

Oregon

Pinot Noir

47,903

US

Intensely aromatic, this carries a wealth of layered flavors consistent with past vintages. Umami, sea salt, mineral and Provençal herbs comingle, with a rich component of raspberry, plum and cherry compôte. More layers appear through the finish, with orange liqueur and a whiff of tanned leather.

96

90

Oregon

Grenache

88,250

France

This is a grassy, herbal wine with green and crisp citrus fruits. It is of course very young and its exuberant fruitiness will be better when it all calms down. The acidity and hint of apricots give the promise of a richer fuller future. Drink from 2017.

89

22

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

54,327

US

It's bone dry, acidic and tannic in youth, but with a solid core of black cherries and red currants, and the oak has been subtlely applied. Give it until 2019–2020.

90

49

California

Pinot Noir

18,621

Spain

Rooty initial aromas veer toward animal and stalky berry fruits as this unfolds. Raw, hard and leathery in feel, this turns out to be low on ripeness as leafy, stalky flavors take over before ending salty, with firm tannins.

83

10

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

125,925

US

Give this young Pinot 3–4 years to begin to develop, and possibly far longer before the fruit fades away. Right now, it's tannic and closed, despite sweet, ripe cherry, raspberry and cola flavors. It shows firm acidity and a fine jacket of oak that has not yet been integrated with the fruit. So intense and powerful, it's hard to believe the alcohol is a low 13.2% by volume.

92

36

California

Pinot Noir

107,419

US

This is interesting—a California take on Oregon Pinot Noir. It's sleek and spicy, with a racy spine and a very tart, dry mouthfeel. The fruit is peppery and hard; like hard candy with an herbal streak. The wine hides its almost 15% alcohol quite well, but it will reward ample breathing time.

89

48

Oregon

Pinot Noir

357

France

Produced from vines more than 100 years old in the heart of the Clos de Vougeot vineyard, this is an impressive wine with a long future. The wood aging is already surrounded by ripe, intense black fruits. A fresher character comes from the bright acidity of the vintage, giving the wine a lift. The aftertaste is long and concentrated. Drink from 2024.

95

350

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

19,003

France

Overripe, jammy fruit aromas and flavors spoil this wine. It's oddly balanced: soft on the one hand and tough on the other.

84

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

36,708

Spain

If you catch this wine young and properly chilled, it isn't that bad. It's very sweet and sugary, with candied melon, mango and citrus flavors. Then it gets more tropical on the finish, with ending notes of banana and mango. On the verge of tasting fake but not quite.

84

9

Northern Spain

White Blend

94,434

US

Soft in texture, this Zin has flavors of freshly crushed, ripe blackberries, cherries and raspberries, cocoa and black pepper, with a burnt brown-butter, baked pastry crust edge. It's pretty tannic, which makes it a good foil for rich meats and cheeses. Decant for an hour or two.

88

32

California

Zinfandel

121,809

US

Petit Verdot makes up a full 62% of this wine, with the rest Merlot (18%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Malbec (5%) and Cabernet Franc. The aromas offer notes of blackberry, Fruit Roll-Ups, herb, dark soil and flower. The palate brings cherry flavors, bright acids and chewy tannins. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

92

50

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

49,409

France

This is a crisp wine, full of acidity. It holds the potential of crisp green and citrus fruits that are developing. A nutty edge contrasts with the tense acidity. Drink from late 2017.

88

10

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

21,932

Portugal

A heavy, powerful wine, with very concentrated tannins. Flavors of licorice, bitter chocolate and black plums give a sense of richness and opulence. Still young, the aromas are yeasty, but these should open up for a rich, dense wine.

90

23

Douro

Portuguese Red

26,337

US

Minty sage and cedar dot the aromatic profile of this wine that is holding on to tannin and oak with a fierce stubbornness. Tart cherry, pomegranate and blueberry give it a fruity mélange, accented by subtle rose petal and violet.

86

46

California

Pinot Noir

10,358

US

Ripe aromas of cherry, spice and licorice pop, with the warmth of the vintage—along with just-in-check volatiles—showing. The cranberry and green herb flavors are tart and full, yet still show some elegance and persistence.

87

32

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

79,633

Spain

Rooty smelling, with cola, sarsparilla, spiced meats and leafy berry aromas. The palate is plump and soft but healthy, with round, sweet berry fruit flavors and ample spice. A generous wine that's hefty, broad and ready to drink. Impressive given that its run is 45,000 cases.

89

29

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

47,027

France

Impressively ripe fruit, with smoky flavors from wood, the texture sweet and fleshy. The wine has juicy berry flavors, with the freshest acidity, livened with spice from the fruit and the oak aging. Worth aging for 5–10 years.

90

55

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

104,647

US

Soft and supple, this Pinot has pleasant flavors of Dr. Pepper cola, raspberries, red cherries and smoky oak. It makes for pleasant drinking now.

86

17

California

Pinot Noir

73,132

Italy

Aromas of iris, violet and dark berry slowly take shape in the glass. The firm palate offers fleshy black cherry, plum, espresso, tobacco and a hint of vanilla alongside firm tannins. Drink through 2019.

90

28

Tuscany

Red Blend

101,804

US

Very good and delicious, if not quite up there with the warmer vintages of 2007 and 2008. The winemaker has done a yeoman's job with this wine—considering the difficult vintage—coaxing out pleasant raspberry- and cherry-jam flavors.The finish is dry and spicy. Drink now.

88

65

California

Pinot Noir

6,285

US

Insanely rich and opulent, brimming with apricot and tangerine jam, green-apple butter, pineapple tart, vanilla, honeysuckle, buttered toast and spice flavors. Somehow, the mass is reined in by a tight framework of acids, minerals and oak tannins. This shows the pedigree that comes from this famous vineyard, as well as the Williams Selyem signature of extreme class and deliciousness. Drink over the next five years.

94

55

California

Chardonnay

29,326

US

The vineyard is in Rutherford, and the wine shows the dusty tannins that this commune is famous for. They're an integral part of the palate experience, along with lush, plush blackberry, plum, charred meat, dark chocolate, black pepper and anise flavors. Impressive for the way it tackles Petite Sirah's rustic character and imposes true Napa elegance. Drink now–2017.

92

45

California

Petite Sirah

13,345

US

A low-priced everyday Chard of sophistication and elegance. It's dry and wonderfully crisp, with subtlely oaked flavors of pineapples, peaches, green apples, pears and kiwis. Easy to find, with more than 12,000 cases produced.

86

13

California

Chardonnay

75,900

US

California's Cameron Hughes dips a toe into Oregon waters with this quite drinkable Willamette Valley Pinot. It floats light cherry fruit around some woody, herbal, stiff tannins. There's a nice touch of cinnamon spice ringing through the finish.

87

25

Oregon

Pinot Noir

112,941

France

Crisp and taut, this Lobre family wine is on a tight rope. It balances between intense citrus acidity and riper apricot and pear favors. It will be better from late 2017.

87

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

69,992

US

Very ripe and forward Cabernet, with jammy blackberry and cherry, spice and earthy flavors, as well as lots of sweet, toasty oak. It's satisfying to drink now.

87

25

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

30,093

France

In this warm and ripe effort, the flavors of red currants and plums work with the underlying tannins and acidity. This has just the right weight, making for a wine that has attractive fruitiness and light tannins.

87

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

123,124

US

Awkward, with sweet, pie-filling cherry and black raspberry flavors that have an edge of raisins, and a sharp finish. Drink now.

84

28

California

Pinot Noir

26,527

US

Pale to the point of being Pinot-esque, this wine draws you in with its aromas of earth, cigar box, crushed flowers, herb and sour cherry. The palate is ethereally light and elegant, fully of savory flavors and made in a transparent style. It might be too elegant for some tastes but others will swoon.

93

45

Washington

Sangiovese

66,608

US

This is an affordable and refreshingly light-bodied Zin, bright and fresh in red berry and well-put together in terms of tannin and oak. Stock up for parties.

87

18

California

Zinfandel

75,766

US

Tastes a bit sweet and jammy in sour cherry candy flavors, with high acidity giving it some sting. Doesn't seem likely to improve, so drink now.

84

40

California

Merlot

86,752

US

This is a luxuriously layered and complex white. It's an expertly rendered combination of ripe, rich fruit—most notably spicy apple and pear—that's completely uplifted by bright acidity and a refreshing mouthfeel. Still youthful, it's both vibrant and nuanced.

92

30

California

Chardonnay

33,601

US

This is a very pure Pinot Noir. It shows its origins in the silky mouthfeel and crisp acidity, as well as a certain minerality that grounds the raspberry, cherry and cola flavors. It's quite good, but not an ager, so drink soon.

88

44

California

Pinot Noir

6,028

US

Starts off with softly perfumed cherries and dried leaves, then turns strongly piny on the palate. Finishes long, with tart cranberry and bitter-chocolate notes. Some excellent elements, including a lush yet structured mouthfeel, but some tasters will find the intense pine-bough flavor distracting.

89

38

Oregon

Pinot Noir

24,278

Spain

The nectarine and mild vanilla aromas are subdued yet solid. On the palate, it's all about stone fruit flavors, such as peach and nectarine, with apple and cider notes on the balanced and healthy finish.

87

15

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

120,216

Italy

Rose, red berry, baked earth, forest floor and grilled herb aromas lead the nose while the firm palate offers dried black cherry, cake spice and anise. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the backbone. Drink 2018–2026.

90

50

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

84,483

France

Owned by Château Larose Trintaudon, this wine comes from the same plateau west of Pauillac. It is well made, bringing out ripe fruit and generous black-cherry flavors, with a touch of spice from wood aging. The tannins are dry, in the background and sufficient to allow the wine to age. Drink from 2018.

90

60

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

65,021

Italy

This is an oak-driven Brunello that imparts woodshop aromas of spice, toast, mesquite and vanilla. The wine offers loads of intensity in the mouth and gains momentum thanks to its thick, warming texture. Drink it after 2012 to allow time for those oak aromas to mellow.

88

65

Tuscany

Sangiovese Grosso

121,890

US

A vital, focused Cabernet, this shows the sheer classiness of Oakville in its concentrated blackberry and black currant fruit. It's seemingly sweet and dry at the same time, and the tannins, which are extraordinarily thick, are fine and pure. Irresistably delicious now, this changes in the glass by the second. It suggests it wants some time in the cellar, so drink now–2021.

96

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

55,389

France

This wine shows some maturity, with toast flavors coming through the creamy mousse. White stone fruit and streaks of citrus give a fresher end to this well-balanced wine.

88

22

Burgundy

Chardonnay

117,488

France

As fresh as it comes, this is crisp and clean rosé, ready for summer aperitifs. Bright red berries cut through a warmer texture and bring acidity with them. There's an attractive lively finish.

90

28

Provence

Rosé

12,110

US

Coming from the original plantings at this esteemed vineyard, this wine brings brooding, high-toned aromas of savory herbs, exotic spice and cherry. The palate is all about sophistication and delicacy of flavor, showing nuance and detail, particularly considering the warmth of the vintage.

90

72

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

22,793

Spain

Blackberry, black cherry, earth and rubbery scents create a blunt, dense bouquet. This is round and full in body, with solid tannins balanced by fleshy, fruity depth. Dark plum, cassis and raspberry flavors linger on an earthy finish with toast and cola notes. Best enjoyed 2017–2022

91

30

Northern Spain

Tempranillo Blend

75,283

US

Spicy new-oak flavors dominate the modest fruit notes in this over-worked wine, knocking it off balance.

84

15

California

Pinot Noir

59,971

US

This is Watermill's five-grape, Bordeaux-style blend, built upon a solid foundation of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon. All the fruit is estate-grown, and the blend is smooth and well-integrated. The tightly packed, cassis fruit is framed with peppery tannins, and the wine has good definition and moderate length.

90

35

Oregon

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

59,409

US

This wine is hugely robust in concentration and power, a study in mountain-grown brambly berry and serious tannin. Bark, pencil and a wealth of spiced plum form the core of its character, with secondary elements of cherry and cigar box coming into play over time. Enjoy best beginning in 2024 through 2034.

94

110

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

44,899

US

This wine is flavorful and sturdy. Full bodied enough to accompany rich dishes, it's affordable, too. It has butter and caramel aromas, an almost thick, syrupy texture and firm tannins. Moderate cherry flavors accompany the oaky components.

86

16

California

Pinot Noir

17,114

France

A firm, still young wine, wearing its tannins right up front. The berry and black plum fruits are there in the background along with considerable weight. The wine, rich and full, will develop over the next 2–3 years.

88

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

74,575

Italy

This plush Syrah opens with a pretty ruby color and thick, almost syrupy, tones of blueberry and raspberry. The fruit aromas are followed by spice and roasted almonds and the wine is succulent and chewy to the very end.

88

16

Sicily & Sardinia

Syrah

15,183

US

Made in the popular Chardonnay style, this shows buttered toast, buttercream, pineapple, mango and exotic spice flavors. Drink this rich wine now.

87

20

California

Chardonnay

76,535

Portugal

This wine is spicy with ripe tannins and juicy berry fruits. It is soft and ready to drink with its balanced fruitiness and acidity.

87

55

Douro

Portuguese Red

70,317

US

Dryness marks this elegant Pinot Noir, a remarkable feat since the strawberry and raspberry fruit is so opulently ripe. With fresh acidity, firm tannins and a touch of minerals, it's a wonderful expression of Santa Rita fruit.

93

30

California

Pinot Noir

104,116

France

Just north of Saint-Tropez, this large estate has produced a rounded fruity wine. It has a soft crushed strawberry flavor that is balanced by attractive generous acidity. The wine is ready to drink.

87

15

Provence

Rosé

48,704

Argentina

Opens with jammy aromas but it's also stewed and stalky. The palate is resiny and tannic, which means it's grabby. Tastes a bit leafy and burnt, with spiced, roasted red plum flavors. Offers mostly oak spice and heat on the finish.

84

13

Mendoza Province

Malbec

46,473

Italy

This bold, balanced wine opens with classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, dried tobacco leaf, red berries, blue flower and a waft of leather. The juicy palate shows depth, delivering ripe wild cherry accented with white pepper, licorice and a mineral note alongside solid but refined tannins. Drink 2016–2024.

92

85

Tuscany

Sangiovese

7,879

US

This collaboration between American winemakers Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton and Japanese entrepreneur Takahide Sugimoto is stunningly high-toned and buttoned-up at first, with sour cream, yogurt, crushed ant, gunmetal, flint and quinine elements on the nose. The palate is complex and fascinating, with chalk and cement minerality bolstered by lime blossom, kumquat and tonic that opens graciously with time. Drink 2016–2026.

94

58

California

Chardonnay