spawn99/wine-reviews · Datasets at Hugging Face

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US	Subtle aromas vie for a place amidst bold swathes of toasted oak and leather in this concentrated, full-bodied wine. Plum and forest floor fill out the midpalate, striking a balance between ripe fruit and savory seasonings.	Patzimaro Vineyard	90	95	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Duckhorn	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Duckhorn 2013 Patzimaro Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Italy	This straightforward wine opens with delicate aromas of apples, mowed grass and dried hay. The palate offers Golden Delicous apples and lemon zest alongside a light mineral note and firm acidity.	null	87	20	Northeastern Italy	Collio	null	Chardonnay	Gradis'ciutta	null	null	null
Australia	Rubbery and rhubarby on the nose, then confected and frankly sweet-tasting on the palate, with a short finish.	null	81	10	Australia Other	South Eastern Australia	null	Merlot	Friday Monkey	Joe Czerwinski	@JoeCz	Friday Monkey 2006 Merlot (South Eastern Australia)
Italy	This Tuscan white offers very mature notes of apricot, peach, honeydew and orange marmalade. The wine is structured, sophisticated and creamy with tart citrus notes on the close.	Pietravalle	88	23	Tuscany	Vernaccia di San Gimignano	null	Vernaccia	Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico	null	null	Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico 2006 Pietravalle (Vernaccia di San Gimignano)
Chile	This is raspy and rough on the nose, with heavy mint, green herb, latex and bell pepper aromas. It feels fairly full, with herb and peppery berry flavors, leading to a green, minty, scratchy finish.	null	83	12	Central Valley	null	null	Merlot	Casas del Toqui	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Casas del Toqui 2011 Merlot (Central Valley)
US	Aged 22 months in 35% new French oak, this semisweet wine is so rich and luscious it could be poured at the end of a meal to pair with chocolate or chunks of salty pecorino. It smells like strawberries and black cherries, tastes ripe and jammy and has a soft, mouth-filling texture and low acidity.	Estate	90	30	California	El Dorado	Sierra Foothills	Zinfandel	Miraflores	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Miraflores 2014 Estate Zinfandel (El Dorado)
Austria	Beautifully aromatic and ripe pear notes dominate, the palate is light but shows friendly, ample fruit that makes this very appetizing and easy to drink. A perfect, refreshing, easy-drinking summer wine.	Friends	89	13	Niederösterreich	null	null	Grüner Veltliner	Martinshof	Anne Krebiehl MW	@AnneInVino	Martinshof 2014 Friends Grüner Veltliner (Niederösterreich)
Italy	Leg of lamb with a rosemary-garlic marinade and white beans would pair nicely with this darkly concentrated wine. This is a thick, savory expression that offers loads of ripe fruit and prune flavors, with spicy notes of teriyaki and hickory smoke.	null	90	42	Veneto	Amarone della Valpolicella Classico	null	Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara	Corte San Benedetto	null	null	null
Spain	Gritty, earthy berry aromas lack refinement. This wine has a narrow, blocky mouthfeel and salty flavors of baked plum and carob. That same roasted, salty character carries over onto the finish.	Estate Wine Old Vine	86	10	Northern Spain	Cariñena	null	Garnacha	Campos de Luz	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Campos de Luz 2014 Estate Wine Old Vine Garnacha (Cariñena)
Italy	A fruity fragrance of berry and cherry carries over to the palate along with watermelon and a hint of spice. Its refreshing finish make this an ideal apéritif or pair it with spicy pasta dishes.	Rosato	86	23	Sicily & Sardinia	Terre Siciliane	null	Nero d'Avola	Spadafora	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Spadafora 2012 Rosato Nero d'Avola (Terre Siciliane)
Italy	This was probably the first Sicilian red I tasted, and then it was full of exotic flavors and mysterious scents. Then the wine went downhill for a few years. But now this 3 million-bottle brand is back on form and full of the same herbal, spicy flavors it always had, with the plus of ripe, sweet dark cherry fruit and easy tannins. I drank it recently with a plate of grilled vegetables, and it was a great partnership.	Rosso	86	10	Sicily & Sardinia	Sicilia	null	Red Blend	Corvo	null	null	null
Argentina	Lush, classy aromas of balsam wood shavings, coconut, vanilla and dark-berry fruits open this hefty Malbec that spent two years in oak prior to bottling. A ripe thick palate maintains full-bodied balance, while this tastes dark, toasty and like a mix of chocolate, coffee and spiced blackberry. Peppery spice notes offset by mocha flavors are prominent on a saturated finish. Drink through 2022.	Renacer R	93	65	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Malbec	Bodega Renacer	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Bodega Renacer 2013 Renacer R Malbec (Mendoza)
Italy	Subtle dark-skinned berry, brown spice, leather and truffle scents gently lift out of the glass. The palate is polished and full-bodied palate, with licorice, clove and white pepper notes underscoring a juicy black cherry core. Firm, refined tannins provide structure. Drink 2019–2027.	null	92	65	Tuscany	Brunello di Montalcino	null	Sangiovese	La Poderina	null	null	null
Chile	The nose is dominated by cranberry and rhubarb, with oak in the rear. Pretty to the eye, with weight and stuffing. Its virtues are its balance and spice. The detractions consist of slightly pickled aromas and flavors. Mostly a nice wine, minus the green character.	Edìcìón Limitada 88 Barricas	84	17	Maipo Valley	null	null	Malbec	Morandé	null	null	null
US	Here is the quintessential Nicholas Cole—the first wine from the estate vineyard, with a blend that is, for the first time, Cabernet-based. It's dark, chewy, dense, tense and deeply compact, with layers of blackberry compote, and lingering flavors that meld smoke, fruit and acid in perfect proportion. A big wine in a big bottle, for those who want their reds no holds barred.	Estate Reserve	94	75	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Red Blend	Nicholas Cole	null	null	null
US	Slightly salty, it reveals highlights of fig and oak amidst a crisp, clean, relatively low-in-alcohol profile. It'll serve well with seafood and salads and as a straightforward sipping wine on its own.	La Bise	85	24	California	Dry Creek Valley	Sonoma	Pinot Blanc	Michel-Schlumberger	null	null	null
US	Crisp and zesty in acid-rich lemongrass, lime, pineapple and fig flavors, this Sauvignon Blanc finishes clean and off-dry. Good with crab cakes with a tropical fruit and cilantro salsa.	Reserve	85	10	California	Monterey County	Central Coast	Sauvignon Blanc	Concannon	null	null	Concannon 2006 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc (Monterey County)
Australia	An interesting wine, at a good price: Has pastry dough, lime and yellow fruit aromas, and a slightly viscous texture. In the mouth, stone fruit wears a minerally cloak. White pepper and herb flavors add zip to the finish.	The Long Paddock	87	10	Victoria	Victoria	null	Chardonnay	Redbank	null	null	Redbank 2002 The Long Paddock Chardonnay (Victoria)
Spain	Transparent in color, with a nose that is equally light and airy, this is a crisp, dry, slightly oaky wine, with a hard-smacking palate. Red plum, raspberry, strawberry and currant flavors are subdued, and lead to a sweet-and-sour finish.	null	85	18	Catalonia	Priorat	null	Garnacha	Scala Dei	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Scala Dei 2013 Garnacha (Priorat)
Spain	Caramel, molasses and spice aromas make this a totally approachable and familiar type of Sherry. The palate offers a round but zesty attack, with flavors of caramel, coffee, toffee, baked apple and orange peel. For the most part it's racy and fresh, but finishing mushroom and pepper notes give it added character.	Premium Oloroso Medium 10RF	90	16	Andalucia	Jerez	null	Sherry	Osborne	null	null	null
Spain	More open than many, with lemon-lime aromas that work as a nice entry. Full in the mouth, where mixed fruits mesh together. The back palate offers drier citrus on top of a smooth, creamy body. Finishing notes of green herbs and lettuce are welcome. Imported by Jorge Ordoñez Selections.	Brut Exclusive Reserva	89	12	Catalonia	Cava	null	Sparkling Blend	Marqués de Gelida	null	null	null
Spain	Too sour, strained and vegetal to rally behind. The nose is grassy and green, while the palate tastes of sour apple, gooseberry and lemon. Turns citric, mustardy and a little like asparagus on the finish.	El Cerezo Unoaked	82	12	Northern Spain	Navarra	null	Chardonnay	Castillo de Monjardin	null	null	null
US	Young and impressive for its size and balance, despite some hefty tannins, this wine won't come into its own for a while. The ripecore of blackberry and black cherry fruit is big enough to suggest cellaring. Hold until 2007 and beyond.	HMV	89	36	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Howell Mountain Vineyards	null	null	null
Argentina	Muddy plum and berry aromas lead to a sharp, rugged palate. Tart plum and pie cherry flavors end raw, rough and bitter.	Alta	81	9	Other	Tulum Valley	null	Malbec	Callia	null	null	null
Spain	Approach this simple Tempranillo with modest expectations and the jammy cherry aromas and flavors will strike you as pure and fresh. Complexity and style are not part of the equation, but an unoaked raspberry character, length and correct balance make it worthy.	null	85	10	Central Spain	Vino de la Tierra de Castilla	null	Tempranillo	Spanish Vines	null	null	null
Portugal	A sadly unbalanced wine from a company that has a name for tawny Ports. With its sweetness, marred by a touch of reduction (too long in old barrels?), it has a curious sweet/sour aftertaste.	10-year old tawny	84	null	Port	null	null	Port	Ferreira	null	null	null
Austria	A blend of Austrian red varieties, this is soft, light and fruity. It has flavors of red fruit and spice from wood aging. With its attractive acidity, this is ready to drink. Screwcap.	Red	85	17	Austria	null	null	Austrian Red Blend	Gernot and Heike Heinrich	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Gernot and Heike Heinrich 2010 Red Red (Austria)
Germany	This is a zippy little number, with scents of white cherries and citrus that float over a bed of petroleum and fresia. The crisp, off-dry finish winds down to a lingering grapefruit note. Drink now with cod in a miso sauce or stash away for a few years.	Ockfener Bockstein Kabinett	88	24	Mosel	null	null	Riesling	St. Urbans-Hof	null	null	null
Italy	Gherardino offers tight fruit nuances of forest berry, white cherry and cranberry, wrapped within generous tones of almond, wet earth and blue flower. It's an easy-drinking Sangiovese, with bright acids on the finish.	Gherardino	88	20	Tuscany	Chianti Classico	null	Sangiovese	Villa Vignamaggio	null	null	null
US	The most balanced of Sea Smoke's three new Pinots, Southing was aged in about two-thirds new oak, which gives rich caramel, toasted coconut and exotic spice notes to the ripe fruit flavors. The wine explodes with cherries, raspberries, mulberries and even chocolate mint, finishing long and spicy, and leaving the impression of wholesomeness and completeness. Now showing its peak of youthful vivacity, this should develop for an additional six years.	Southing	95	50	California	Sta. Rita Hills	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Sea Smoke	null	null	null
France	This attractively crisp wine packed with red berry fruits is light and lively. It offers plenty of acidity along with a touch of pepper and cinnamon. Drink now.	null	86	17	Bordeaux	Bordeaux Rosé	null	Rosé	Château Haut Mouleyre	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château Haut Mouleyre 2016 Rosé (Bordeaux Rosé)
Australia	Built something along the lines of a Crozes-Hermitage, this shows more acid and tannin than you might expect. The aromas are slightly herbal and smoky, with gamy elements to go along with green olive and coffee flavors. It stands out among its peers for its Rhône-like qualities.	The Stump Jump	87	11	South Australia	McLaren Vale	null	Shiraz	D'Arenberg	null	null	null
US	A blend of Olsen Estates and Stillwater Creek vineyards, this wine pops with heaping amounts of black pepper and raw meat aromas along with dried herb grace notes. It's full of fruit and savory flavors, with firm tannins backing it all up. An impressive wine, this should have a long life ahead of it.	null	92	36	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Monastrell	Flying Dreams	null	null	null
Italy	This is made using fruit from one of the most beautiful spots on Earth, so it's no wonder this dessert wine is so delicious. Sweet peach, honey and candied almond notes open the fragrant bouquet.	Capofaro	93	40	Sicily & Sardinia	Salina	null	Malvasia	Tasca d'Almerita	null	null	null
US	Richly ripe in black cherry and chocolate, this is a blend of Merlot, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel and Petit Verdot. Generous tannins give way to a soft, smooth mouthfeel and a burst of blackberry and leather, finishing in spicy cinnamon and black pepper.	Cellar 1879 Blend	88	25	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Red Blend	Markham	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Markham 2013 Cellar 1879 Blend Red (Napa Valley)
US	This is a very good wine, and this everyday price makes it a real bargain. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, it's more proof of California's ability to produce complex Rhône blends.	Heritage Cuvée	89	14	California	Santa Barbara County	Central Coast	Rhône-style Red Blend	Curtis	null	null	null
Argentina	Popcorn is the overriding characteristic on this oaky Chardonnay. On the nose, it's movie popcorn with toast and baked apple. In the mouth, it's more popcorn along with buttered toast, salt and baked white-fruit flavors. And on the finish, there's woody flavors, toast and you guessed it, more popcorn.	de Uco	85	20	Mendoza Province	Uco Valley	null	Chardonnay	DiamAndes	null	null	null
France	Toast and brioche aromas lead this rich, generous wine. It has considerable bottle age, meaning the youthful freshness has been replaced by a mature character. Dry in style yet quite ripe, this is a Champagne for food.	Extra Brut	91	40	Champagne	Champagne	null	Champagne Blend	Vincent Couche	null	null	null
US	The is dry and well balanced, with red licorice, red currant and cola flavors that are enhanced by smoky oak influence. The alcohol shows through with some peppery heat. Drink now.	Reserve	88	35	California	Paso Robles	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Cerro Prieto	null	null	null
US	Made in a full-bodied style with a density of firm tannins, this wine offers a mix of ripe black cherry and black licorice notes, the core succulent and strong.	null	90	50	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Pinot Noir	Screen Door Cellars	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Screen Door Cellars 2014 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)
US	This is an expansive, chewy and full-bodied wine, well made and enjoyable in its complementary components of blackberry and currant. Those ripe, fruity aspects play well off of recurring clove and cigar-box spice, the wine textured and robustly lingering.	Gaspare Vineyard	91	90	California	Oak Knoll District	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Black Stallion	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Black Stallion 2012 Gaspare Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Oak Knoll District)
US	This is a delight—a supple, polished, ripe and full-throttle Pinot Noir offered at a mid-1990s price. Winemaker Aron Hess keeps the alcohol at 13.5%, the oak a moderate 20% new, and the earthy underpinnings gracefully in check. Lush purple and blue fruits are lightly licked with chocolate; the result is a very satisfying mouthful of wine.	Lia's Vineyard	91	24	Oregon	Chehalem Mountains	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Longplay	null	null	null
US	A decent everyday Chard, with ripe flavors of pineapples, peaches and pears, and an oaky influence of vanilla and buttercream.	null	84	10	California	California	California Other	Chardonnay	Virgin	null	null	null
Spain	A bit roasted and reedy smelling, with a hint of stem and grass mixed with berry and leather. The palate is full and feels creamy, with mildly roasted black fruit and leathery flavors. Good on the finish as the wine picks up steam and clarity with airing.	Reserva	88	25	Northern Spain	Ribera del Duero	null	Tinto Fino	Viña Mayor	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Viña Mayor 2005 Reserva (Ribera del Duero)
France	From a biodynamic vineyard in the heart of Sancerre, this wine is tight, mineral-driven and very young, well balanced between herbal and citrus flavors. These are lifted and filled out with the ripe Rocha pear flavors that give an extra juicy element. The wine will age well and will be better after 2018.	Guigne-Chèvres	92	65	Loire Valley	Sancerre	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Domaine Vacheron	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Domaine Vacheron 2014 Guigne-Chèvres (Sancerre)
France	In a modern, smooth style, with plush fruit and dusty tannins, this is a ripe, open wine, an easy expression of Malbec, New World in its fruitiness.	Zette Rouge	88	9	Southwest France	Cahors	null	Malbec	Château Lagrézette	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château Lagrézette 2005 Zette Rouge Malbec (Cahors)
Chile	Light strawberry aromas are a bit green and herbal. The mouthfeel is fresh but dilute, while flavors of oak and creamy tasting red-berry fruits finish firm but without a lot of depth. This is good for quaffing but doesn't go beyond that.	Duette	86	20	Casablanca Valley	null	null	Pinot Noir	Indomita	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Indomita 2011 Duette Pinot Noir (Casablanca Valley)
Bulgaria	Aromas of bright lemon zest, freshly cut grass, passion fruit and grapefruit lead to flavors of kumquat, mango and lemongrass. There's salty minerality and a nice touch of acidity on the finish.	null	86	14	Danube River Plains	null	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Chateau Burgozone	Jeff Jenssen	@worldwineguys	Chateau Burgozone 2012 Sauvignon Blanc (Danube River Plains)
US	A relatively light and civilized version of a notoriously dark and full-bodied varietal. The color is a medium purple. An aroma of grilled vegetables leads to satisfying cherry flavors carried on a moderately tannic but not extreme texture.	Family Reserve	85	8	California	California	California Other	Petite Sirah	Oak Grove	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Oak Grove 2012 Family Reserve Petite Sirah (California)
US	This blends 61% Sauvignon Blanc, 36% Sémillon and 3% Chardonnay, opening in strong currents of honey caramel and dried apricot, with a back note of raisin. Voluptuous and nutty, it drinks big in style and personality, delivering plenty of defined flavor.	Small Lot Collection White	89	32	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Meritage	Raymond	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Raymond 2014 Small Lot Collection White Meritage (Napa Valley)
Turkey	Light straw in the glass, this wine is a nice example of the indigenous Turkish grape Narince. The bouquet yields soft notes of guava and white melon, while it is much bolder on the palate, offering flavors of grapefruit, carambola, and eucalyptus. The pleasing of interplay of tropical fruit and cool notes continues into a zesty finish with touches of mint.	null	87	15	Ankara	null	null	Narince	Vinkara	Mike DeSimone	@worldwineguys	Vinkara 2013 Narince (Ankara)
Austria	A wonderful, rich wine that brings out apricot and peach flavors, topped with ginger, spice and dense black pepper. The acidity is balanced well with the ripe flavors. It is full, concentrated and worth aging for at least two years. Glass stopper.	Von Stein Reserve	92	50	Kremstal	null	null	Grüner Veltliner	Salomon-Undhof	null	null	null
France	This is a solid, chunky wine, rich in dark blackberry and and red plum flavors. Maybe the tannins are too hard at this stage, but its weight and rich fruit suggest aging potential. Drink from 2016..	Clos Bourbon	89	25	Bordeaux	Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château du Cros	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château du Cros 2011 Clos Bourbon (Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux)
France	This is distinctive in its Dutch gin bottle. It's full of fruit and crisp acidity, while an unusual herbal layer gives extra freshness. Tangy and aromatic, it is ready to drink.	VieVité	87	null	Provence	Côtes de Provence	null	Rosé	Domaine Sainte-Marie	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Domaine Sainte-Marie 2014 VieVité Rosé (Côtes de Provence)
US	As Barbara Streisand might have said, “Hello, gorgeous.” With brisk acidity that's almost tingly, this is basically dry, yet the exotic tropical fruit, peach and honeysuckle flavors are so pure, ending with a sweet finish. It's the perfect accompaniment to Asian-fusion fare.	Paragon Vineyard	92	17	California	Edna Valley	Central Coast	Viognier	Tangent	null	null	Tangent 2011 Paragon Vineyard Viognier (Edna Valley)
US	Plowbuster is Carabella's second label, offering this light, balanced, moderately priced Pinot Noir. Wild berries and cocoa powder compete with astringent tannins that taste of green tea. Though slightly bitter, it softens up when paired with heartier stews.	null	86	20	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Plowbuster	null	null	null
Spain	Begins with a sweet marshmallow creaminess on the nose, which is followed by a firm, tanninc palate with snappy cherry and raspberry flavors. Clean and easy to understand, but in the end it's a very regular wine.	Tinto	84	13	Northern Spain	Ribera del Duero	null	Tempranillo	Pago del Vostal	null	null	null
US	As impressive as the woman—a pioneer in the Napa Valley—was herself, this 100% varietal wine from the estate property high atop Diamond Mountain is powerfully elegant, intense yet refined. It begins with a high-toned, graceful entry that's rich in blueberry and chocolate, the oak smooth and integrated, with a suggestion of hand-rolled tobacco. Drink now through 2022.	Jamie	95	200	California	Diamond Mountain District	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	J. Davies	Virginie Boone	@vboone	J. Davies 2012 Jamie Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain District)
Chile	Oaky aromas of graphite, vanilla, berry fruits and plum lead to a firm clampy high-acid palate with oak-rich flavors of spiced plum and currant. Mildly green, minty flavors close out a drawing tight finish.	Barrel Select	87	13	Cachapoal Valley	null	null	Syrah	Santa Ema	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Santa Ema 2013 Barrel Select Syrah (Cachapoal Valley)
US	Wonderful, spicy oak aromas and ripe flavors give this eye-opening, full-bodied wine a lot to like. It has hints of new leather, cedar and tobacco along with opulent plum-like fruit and a lavish layer of fine tannins to support all the richness. This is the third 90-plus showing in the last four vintages.	null	91	32	California	Sierra Foothills	Sierra Foothills	Sangiovese	La Folia Winery	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	La Folia Winery 2013 Sangiovese (Sierra Foothills)
Austria	It is easy to find the varietal character here, in a wine that has plenty of red cherry juice and tannins that spread well through the wine. It is on the jammy side of Pinot Noir, ripe, full of strawberry juice, but always with tannins present.	null	90	50	Burgenland	null	null	Pinot Noir	Judith Beck	null	null	null
Portugal	This ripe wine is full of apple fruits with a tight streak of citrus acidity. It's a food wine, showing a creamy texture, a light texture and attractive acidity.	Coroa d'Ouro	87	12	Douro	null	null	Portuguese White	Poças	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Poças 2012 Coroa d'Ouro White (Douro)
US	The gigantic flavors are there, showing the exotic, flamboyant side of Viognier. Peach, pineapple, kiwi, Key lime pie, honeysuckle blossom, roasted almond, smoky new oak and Asian spices lead to a dry, honeyed finish. There's an edgy awkwardness, though, that limits elegance. Might simply be too young. Best after mid-2008.	null	87	42	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Viognier	Pride Mountain	null	null	null
US	Here's how good unoaked Sauvignon Blanc can be. Pure Meyer lemon, citron zest and refreshingly crisp acids are all delicious, zingy and clean. There's even a backbone of steely minerality.	Paragon Vineyard	86	13	California	Edna Valley	Central Coast	Sauvignon Blanc	Tangent	null	null	null
US	Lots going on in this ripe, lusty Zin. It shows the spicy, briary character of Dry Creek, with wild blackberry, cherry and boysenberry flavors complexed with mocha, sweet vanilla and toast.	Old Vine	86	28	California	Dry Creek Valley	Sonoma	Zinfandel	Puccioni	null	null	null
US	Good price for such a lush, likeable Merlot. It's soft and rich in cherries, red currants and licorice. This is easly the best Sebastiani Merlot in many years.	null	91	24	California	Alexander Valley	Sonoma	Merlot	Sebastiani	null	null	Sebastiani 2009 Merlot (Alexander Valley)
Italy	Morar is a spicy Amarone with a fragrance of raisin, baked plum, tobacco and black pepper. The palate delivers lush black cherry and raspberry flavors mingled with intense white pepper, clove and nutmeg notes. It's smooth and rich with enough freshness to make this a perfect match for seasoned cheeses or roasted red meat.	Morar	92	69	Veneto	Amarone della Valpolicella	null	Red Blend	Valentina Cubi	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Valentina Cubi 2008 Morar (Amarone della Valpolicella)
US	A light entry holds flavors of strawberry and tomato leaf, then turns tannic. Chewy and earthy, with more than a hint of seed and stem, this wine comes from biodynamically farmed grapes that add some earthy nuances, but put too much emphasis on green tea, stemmy flavors.	Renegade Ridge Estate	85	75	Oregon	Dundee Hills	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Archery Summit	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Archery Summit 2004 Renegade Ridge Estate Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills)
null	Aromas of cherry, blueberry and rose petal prepare the taste buds for flavors of cherry pie, vanilla custard, black pepper and Turkish delight. Tannins can feel momentarily stiff, but they are soon outweighed by bold acidity that carries into bright black cherry finish.	null	91	34	null	null	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Psagot	Mike DeSimone	@worldwineguys	Psagot 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon
US	Heavy licorice bombards the nose on this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 14% Merlot, 8% Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot, but there is plenty of cassis, fudge, brandy and mint to add complexity. Solid acid and firm tannins grab the palate's attention immediately, allowing blackberry, dried herbs and a rocky minerality to converge cleanly.	Mare Nectaris Reserve	91	52	California	Paso Robles	Central Coast	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Midnight	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Midnight 2013 Mare Nectaris Reserve Red (Paso Robles)
US	Honeylike aromas, ripe peach and apple flavors and rather full body give this wine good depth and breadth. It seems like just the thing for a picnic or to serve with cheese at a party.	null	88	26	California	Anderson Valley	null	Pinot Gris	Balo	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Balo 2014 Pinot Gris (Anderson Valley)
South Africa	With 2,000 cases imported, here's a value white composed of 80% Chenin Blanc and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. Green apple flesh and orange rind are lifted by notes of crushed yellow flowers, while green plum flavors flesh out the medium-weight mouth. Drink now.	Oak Lane	85	9	Stellenbosch	null	null	Chenin Blanc-Sauvignon Blanc	Beau Joubert	Lauren Buzzeo	@laurbuzz	Beau Joubert 2010 Oak Lane Chenin Blanc-Sauvignon Blanc (Stellenbosch)
US	At first, the bright Bing cherry fruit carries suggestions of anise and mint, but in the mouth the wine does not deliver all that the nose promises. The tannins turn aggressively bitter. This falls short of the outstanding 2008.	Jacob-Hart Vineyard	86	58	Oregon	Chehalem Mountains	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Rex Hill	null	null	null
US	A real success in a challenging vintage, this is a meaty, flavorful, well-built Pinot Noir. The fruit is a mix of berries, especially strawberry, with accents of peach, cola, earth, sassafras and cinnamon. The wine keeps on going; it doesn't wimp out or turn bitter. It's interesting now, but should develop even more flavor with some years of cellaring.	SV Estate	90	40	Oregon	Dundee Hills	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Stoller	null	null	null
US	From a vineyard sited near the winery, this is the most supple, balanced and evenly detailed of the 2007 red wines from Fidélitas. The lightly muscled, compact fruit flavors bring black cherry, cassis, and plum together, with a strong minerality providing subtext. A suggestion of smoke suffuses the finish.	Ciel du Cheval Vineyard	91	55	Washington	Red Mountain	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Fidelitas	null	null	null
US	Winemaker Nick Goldschmidt does wonders with this consistent vineyard source, coaxing out mocha-chocolate, black cherry and blackberry, never overpowering an earthy back note of tobacco. Medium-bodied and soft, it finishes in a swirl of smoke and is juicy and enjoyable now.	Lone Tree Vineyard	90	50	California	Alexander Valley	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	Forefathers	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Forefathers 2012 Lone Tree Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley)
France	Pegau's rare white Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of 60% Clairette, 20% Grenache Blanc, 10% Roussanne and 10% Bourboulenc. Despite being full bodied and viscous on the palate, there's no sense of heaviness—the wine's aromas and flavors of barely ripe melon, anise and honeyed citrus seem to float on the palate, ending in a mouthwatering finish.	Cuvée Réservée	89	70	Rhône Valley	Châteauneuf-du-Pape	null	Rhône-style White Blend	Domaine du Pegau	null	null	null
US	Fresh dill, dewy herbs and a seared lemon-syrup scent makes for a dense but not treacly nose on this wine by a producer on the fringes of Gilroy. A chive accent holds attention once sipped, with a chalky minerality and a white-pepper finish, altogether proving brisk and elegant.	null	91	28	California	Santa Cruz Mountains	Central Coast	Chardonnay	Sarah's Vineyard	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Sarah's Vineyard 2013 Chardonnay (Santa Cruz Mountains)
Italy	This luscious, balanced Pinot Grigio isn't overly complex, but scores for its cactus pear and toasted almond aromas and flavors and its peppery, refreshing finish. It's medium-bodied, with just a hint of unreleased CO2 to enliven it.	Vigneto Ai Palazzi	87	15	Veneto	Piave	null	Pinot Grigio	Masottina	Joe Czerwinski	@JoeCz	Masottina 2001 Vigneto Ai Palazzi Pinot Grigio (Piave)
Portugal	Wonderfully balanced and structured, this is a wine that gives a complete series of flavors from chocolate, black stone fruits, layers of wood and finally the essential acidity. Its texture is grainy, dusty, firm and ready to age for several years.	null	94	40	Douro	null	null	Portuguese Red	Poeira	null	null	null
Argentina	Respectable red fruit aromas carry a slight pickled sharpness and the scent of a matchstick, while the palate is lactic and creamy, with strawberry, raspberry, plum and herbal notes. Plump and reasonably well balanced, with an herbal finish.	null	84	10	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Malbec	Ku Dé Ta	null	null	null
Portugal	The wine is ripe, generous and lightly structured. Black currant and black plum fruits surround a dry core that gives texture. It's not for long-term aging.	Tapada dos Coelheiros	86	38	Alentejano	null	null	Portuguese Red	Herdade dos Coelheiros	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Herdade dos Coelheiros 2009 Tapada dos Coelheiros Red (Alentejano)
France	This is a wine with austerity and a dry, firm structure. It does have fruit to give weight to its tannins and texture. With spice as well as flavors of wood aging, it's likely to age well. Drink from 2017.	null	88	75	Bordeaux	Haut-Médoc	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château du Moulin	null	null	null
Greece	Perhaps it's a trick of this wine's slightly coppery hue, but it seems to have some peach and strawberry scents along with intense pink grapefruit flavors. Its medium weight gives the impression of ripe fruit balanced by racy acids, finishing clean and crisp.	null	87	16	Santorini	null	null	White Blend	Heliopoulos	null	null	null
Australia	Starts with scents of lime sherbet, but also hints of herbs, kerosene and stone fruits. Citrus and underripe peaches are the main flavors. This wine is clean and fresh, but seems to lack a little flesh in the midpalate. Drink now.	null	85	17	Western Australia	Western Australia	null	Riesling	West Cape Howe	null	null	null
France	The acidity is the problem here. It is out of balance with what seems to be a layer of sweetness that leaves a huge hole in the middle. Screw cap.	null	81	null	Loire Valley	Sancerre	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Michel Picard	null	null	null
US	This Petite Sirah is soft and very dry, a wine to drink now and for the next few years. With its easy tannins, it shows baked fruit tart flavors of blackberries and currants, with an edge of crushed peppercorn.	Estate	87	28	California	Dry Creek Valley	Sonoma	Petite Sirah	Everett Ridge	null	null	Everett Ridge 2006 Estate Petite Sirah (Dry Creek Valley)
US	The color is on the light side, with a garnet to brick hue. Intriguing aromas of forest floor, tobacco and black cherry waft out of the glass. Rich flavors suggest dark fruits, clove, cola and anise, and the texture is simultaneously generous and firmly tannic. Very complex and well balanced overall, it is just nicely medium bodied.	Cerise Vineyard	92	50	California	Anderson Valley	null	Pinot Noir	Phillips Hill	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Phillips Hill 2012 Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley)
US	This wine, aged in stainless steel barrels, offers muted berry fruit, somewhat masked by aromas of rubber tire and plastic. The finish is short and slightly bitter.	Dion Vineyard	84	26	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Oak Knoll	null	null	null
Spain	With aromas of warm earth, cedar, tobacco and meaty black fruit, this covers the basics of Ribera. It feels plump, round and maybe a bit flat, with rich, ripe blackberry, prune and spice flavors. It's harmonious and full-bodied on the finish.	Reserva	90	36	Northern Spain	Ribera del Duero	null	Tinta Fina	Legaris	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Legaris 2005 Reserva (Ribera del Duero)
US	Grapey and fresh, this has plenty of acid under just-picked strawberry and pie cherry fruit flavors. It's clean and forward, with a suggestion that further bottle age will bring out hidden nuances.	null	88	25	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Barbera	Ryan Patrick	null	null	null
Italy	Mature dark-skinned berry, forest floor, truffle and chopped herb aromas unfold in the glass. The chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, licorice and an earthy hint of game alongside firm tannins.	Olinto	89	18	Tuscany	Chianti Classico	null	Red Blend	I Fabbri	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	I Fabbri 2012 Olinto (Chianti Classico)
US	This is Paraiso's most expensive Pinot, a block selection from their estate vineyard in the southern part of the Highlands. The wine is very good, although for some reason not quite up there with the 2001 or 2003. The fruity ripeness shows in the forward cherry, raspberry and cola-root beer flavors, and and wine is fully dry. Drink now.	West Terrace	88	40	California	Santa Lucia Highlands	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Paraiso Vineyards	null	null	null
France	A wine with light tannins and juicy red fruits. Though the acidity is prominent, it has a soft texture and attractive strawberry fruit flavors. Not for aging.	Duc de Rochebois	85	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	De Mour	null	null	null
Italy	A pleasant wine showing some jammy fruit, with interesting nuances of burnt sugar. Already at its apogee, and probably should be drunk quickly.	Baric	84	13	Piedmont	Diano d'Alba	null	Red Blend	Veglio	null	null	null
Argentina	Blackberry and plum aromas have just enough leather and horsehide accents to give this wine character. The mouth is centered squarely on purple fruits like plum and wild blackberry, and the feel and finish are comfortable and fresh. Lively and with all the basics in the right places.	null	87	10	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Merlot	Alberti 154	null	null	null
Italy	Off the charts in almost every way. First, it's a Calabrian Chardonnay with tons of hangtime and oak. Second, it hardly resembles Chardonnay as we know it. The nose is oily, with lemon, baked corn and quince. The palate is custardy, ultra ripe and borderline over the top. Finishes in complex ways, with peach, apricot and nutmeg along with white pepper. More of a sommelier/explorer's wine.	Imyr	89	36	Southern Italy	Val di Neto	null	Chardonnay	Azienda Agricola Roberto Ceraudo Strongoli	null	null	null
US	This appealing wine offers notes of fresh blue plums, huckleberry, tire rubber and woodspice. The flavors show purity, intensity and length—a very pretty example of the variety.	Lawrence Vineyards	89	30	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Malbec	Gård	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Gård 2012 Lawrence Vineyards Malbec (Columbia Valley (WA))
Portugal	Soalheiro is in the heartland of Alvarinho in the northern Vinho Verde, close to Spain. This Reserva is a fine expression of the grape that has been enhanced and given added richness by light oak aging. It's a wine that should age to soften the tight crispness. Drink from the end of 2016.	Reserva	92	35	Vinho Verde	null	null	Alvarinho	Quinta de Soalheiro	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Quinta de Soalheiro 2014 Reserva Alvarinho (Vinho Verde)
Australia	A steak lover's Cab made in an old-school style, sturdy but not brash. Has its share of oak, to be sure, but it's the “dry tannins and black pepper flavors” kind, not the toast-and-nut route. Red plum and cherry fruit are at its firm core. Enjoyable and traditional. Imported by Pan Pacific Wines.	Grand Reserve	91	100	South Australia	Coonawarra	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Pepper Tree	null	null	null

US

Subtle aromas vie for a place amidst bold swathes of toasted oak and leather in this concentrated, full-bodied wine. Plum and forest floor fill out the midpalate, striking a balance between ripe fruit and savory seasonings.

Patzimaro Vineyard

90

95

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Duckhorn

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Duckhorn 2013 Patzimaro Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Italy

This straightforward wine opens with delicate aromas of apples, mowed grass and dried hay. The palate offers Golden Delicous apples and lemon zest alongside a light mineral note and firm acidity.

null

87

20

Northeastern Italy

Collio

null

Chardonnay

Gradis'ciutta

null

Australia

Rubbery and rhubarby on the nose, then confected and frankly sweet-tasting on the palate, with a short finish.

null

81

10

Australia Other

South Eastern Australia

null

Merlot

Friday Monkey

Joe Czerwinski

@JoeCz

Friday Monkey 2006 Merlot (South Eastern Australia)

Italy

This Tuscan white offers very mature notes of apricot, peach, honeydew and orange marmalade. The wine is structured, sophisticated and creamy with tart citrus notes on the close.

Pietravalle

88

23

Tuscany

Vernaccia di San Gimignano

null

Vernaccia

Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico

null

Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico 2006 Pietravalle (Vernaccia di San Gimignano)

Chile

This is raspy and rough on the nose, with heavy mint, green herb, latex and bell pepper aromas. It feels fairly full, with herb and peppery berry flavors, leading to a green, minty, scratchy finish.

null

83

12

Central Valley

null

Merlot

Casas del Toqui

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Casas del Toqui 2011 Merlot (Central Valley)

US

Aged 22 months in 35% new French oak, this semisweet wine is so rich and luscious it could be poured at the end of a meal to pair with chocolate or chunks of salty pecorino. It smells like strawberries and black cherries, tastes ripe and jammy and has a soft, mouth-filling texture and low acidity.

Estate

90

30

California

El Dorado

Sierra Foothills

Zinfandel

Miraflores

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Miraflores 2014 Estate Zinfandel (El Dorado)

Austria

Beautifully aromatic and ripe pear notes dominate, the palate is light but shows friendly, ample fruit that makes this very appetizing and easy to drink. A perfect, refreshing, easy-drinking summer wine.

Friends

89

13

Niederösterreich

null

Grüner Veltliner

Martinshof

Anne Krebiehl MW

@AnneInVino

Martinshof 2014 Friends Grüner Veltliner (Niederösterreich)

Italy

Leg of lamb with a rosemary-garlic marinade and white beans would pair nicely with this darkly concentrated wine. This is a thick, savory expression that offers loads of ripe fruit and prune flavors, with spicy notes of teriyaki and hickory smoke.

null

90

42

Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

null

Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara

Corte San Benedetto

null

Spain

Gritty, earthy berry aromas lack refinement. This wine has a narrow, blocky mouthfeel and salty flavors of baked plum and carob. That same roasted, salty character carries over onto the finish.

Estate Wine Old Vine

86

10

Northern Spain

Cariñena

null

Garnacha

Campos de Luz

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Campos de Luz 2014 Estate Wine Old Vine Garnacha (Cariñena)

Italy

A fruity fragrance of berry and cherry carries over to the palate along with watermelon and a hint of spice. Its refreshing finish make this an ideal apéritif or pair it with spicy pasta dishes.

Rosato

86

23

Sicily & Sardinia

Terre Siciliane

null

Nero d'Avola

Spadafora

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Spadafora 2012 Rosato Nero d'Avola (Terre Siciliane)

Italy

This was probably the first Sicilian red I tasted, and then it was full of exotic flavors and mysterious scents. Then the wine went downhill for a few years. But now this 3 million-bottle brand is back on form and full of the same herbal, spicy flavors it always had, with the plus of ripe, sweet dark cherry fruit and easy tannins. I drank it recently with a plate of grilled vegetables, and it was a great partnership.

Rosso

86

10

Sicily & Sardinia

Sicilia

null

Red Blend

Corvo

null

Argentina

Lush, classy aromas of balsam wood shavings, coconut, vanilla and dark-berry fruits open this hefty Malbec that spent two years in oak prior to bottling. A ripe thick palate maintains full-bodied balance, while this tastes dark, toasty and like a mix of chocolate, coffee and spiced blackberry. Peppery spice notes offset by mocha flavors are prominent on a saturated finish. Drink through 2022.

Renacer R

93

65

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Malbec

Bodega Renacer

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Bodega Renacer 2013 Renacer R Malbec (Mendoza)

Italy

Subtle dark-skinned berry, brown spice, leather and truffle scents gently lift out of the glass. The palate is polished and full-bodied palate, with licorice, clove and white pepper notes underscoring a juicy black cherry core. Firm, refined tannins provide structure. Drink 2019–2027.

null

92

65

Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino

null

Sangiovese

La Poderina

null

Chile

The nose is dominated by cranberry and rhubarb, with oak in the rear. Pretty to the eye, with weight and stuffing. Its virtues are its balance and spice. The detractions consist of slightly pickled aromas and flavors. Mostly a nice wine, minus the green character.

Edìcìón Limitada 88 Barricas

84

17

Maipo Valley

null

Malbec

Morandé

null

US

Here is the quintessential Nicholas Cole—the first wine from the estate vineyard, with a blend that is, for the first time, Cabernet-based. It's dark, chewy, dense, tense and deeply compact, with layers of blackberry compote, and lingering flavors that meld smoke, fruit and acid in perfect proportion. A big wine in a big bottle, for those who want their reds no holds barred.

Estate Reserve

94

75

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Red Blend

Nicholas Cole

null

US

Slightly salty, it reveals highlights of fig and oak amidst a crisp, clean, relatively low-in-alcohol profile. It'll serve well with seafood and salads and as a straightforward sipping wine on its own.

La Bise

85

24

California

Dry Creek Valley

Sonoma

Pinot Blanc

Michel-Schlumberger

null

US

Crisp and zesty in acid-rich lemongrass, lime, pineapple and fig flavors, this Sauvignon Blanc finishes clean and off-dry. Good with crab cakes with a tropical fruit and cilantro salsa.

Reserve

85

10

California

Monterey County

Central Coast

Sauvignon Blanc

Concannon

null

Concannon 2006 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc (Monterey County)

Australia

An interesting wine, at a good price: Has pastry dough, lime and yellow fruit aromas, and a slightly viscous texture. In the mouth, stone fruit wears a minerally cloak. White pepper and herb flavors add zip to the finish.

The Long Paddock

87

10

Victoria

null

Chardonnay

Redbank

null

Redbank 2002 The Long Paddock Chardonnay (Victoria)

Spain

Transparent in color, with a nose that is equally light and airy, this is a crisp, dry, slightly oaky wine, with a hard-smacking palate. Red plum, raspberry, strawberry and currant flavors are subdued, and lead to a sweet-and-sour finish.

null

85

18

Catalonia

Priorat

null

Garnacha

Scala Dei

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Scala Dei 2013 Garnacha (Priorat)

Spain

Caramel, molasses and spice aromas make this a totally approachable and familiar type of Sherry. The palate offers a round but zesty attack, with flavors of caramel, coffee, toffee, baked apple and orange peel. For the most part it's racy and fresh, but finishing mushroom and pepper notes give it added character.

Premium Oloroso Medium 10RF

90

16

Andalucia

Jerez

null

Sherry

Osborne

null

Spain

More open than many, with lemon-lime aromas that work as a nice entry. Full in the mouth, where mixed fruits mesh together. The back palate offers drier citrus on top of a smooth, creamy body. Finishing notes of green herbs and lettuce are welcome. Imported by Jorge Ordoñez Selections.

Brut Exclusive Reserva

89

12

Catalonia

Cava

null

Sparkling Blend

Marqués de Gelida

null

Spain

Too sour, strained and vegetal to rally behind. The nose is grassy and green, while the palate tastes of sour apple, gooseberry and lemon. Turns citric, mustardy and a little like asparagus on the finish.

El Cerezo Unoaked

82

12

Northern Spain

Navarra

null

Chardonnay

Castillo de Monjardin

null

US

Young and impressive for its size and balance, despite some hefty tannins, this wine won't come into its own for a while. The ripecore of blackberry and black cherry fruit is big enough to suggest cellaring. Hold until 2007 and beyond.

HMV

89

36

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Howell Mountain Vineyards

null

Argentina

Muddy plum and berry aromas lead to a sharp, rugged palate. Tart plum and pie cherry flavors end raw, rough and bitter.

Alta

81

9

Other

Tulum Valley

null

Malbec

Callia

null

Spain

Approach this simple Tempranillo with modest expectations and the jammy cherry aromas and flavors will strike you as pure and fresh. Complexity and style are not part of the equation, but an unoaked raspberry character, length and correct balance make it worthy.

null

85

10

Central Spain

Vino de la Tierra de Castilla

null

Tempranillo

Spanish Vines

null

Portugal

A sadly unbalanced wine from a company that has a name for tawny Ports. With its sweetness, marred by a touch of reduction (too long in old barrels?), it has a curious sweet/sour aftertaste.

10-year old tawny

84

null

Port

null

Port

Ferreira

null

Austria

A blend of Austrian red varieties, this is soft, light and fruity. It has flavors of red fruit and spice from wood aging. With its attractive acidity, this is ready to drink. Screwcap.

Red

85

17

Austria

null

Austrian Red Blend

Gernot and Heike Heinrich

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Gernot and Heike Heinrich 2010 Red Red (Austria)

Germany

This is a zippy little number, with scents of white cherries and citrus that float over a bed of petroleum and fresia. The crisp, off-dry finish winds down to a lingering grapefruit note. Drink now with cod in a miso sauce or stash away for a few years.

Ockfener Bockstein Kabinett

88

24

Mosel

null

Riesling

St. Urbans-Hof

null

Italy

Gherardino offers tight fruit nuances of forest berry, white cherry and cranberry, wrapped within generous tones of almond, wet earth and blue flower. It's an easy-drinking Sangiovese, with bright acids on the finish.

Gherardino

88

20

Tuscany

Chianti Classico

null

Sangiovese

Villa Vignamaggio

null

US

The most balanced of Sea Smoke's three new Pinots, Southing was aged in about two-thirds new oak, which gives rich caramel, toasted coconut and exotic spice notes to the ripe fruit flavors. The wine explodes with cherries, raspberries, mulberries and even chocolate mint, finishing long and spicy, and leaving the impression of wholesomeness and completeness. Now showing its peak of youthful vivacity, this should develop for an additional six years.

Southing

95

50

California

Sta. Rita Hills

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Sea Smoke

null

France

This attractively crisp wine packed with red berry fruits is light and lively. It offers plenty of acidity along with a touch of pepper and cinnamon. Drink now.

null

86

17

Bordeaux

Bordeaux Rosé

null

Rosé

Château Haut Mouleyre

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château Haut Mouleyre 2016 Rosé (Bordeaux Rosé)

Australia

Built something along the lines of a Crozes-Hermitage, this shows more acid and tannin than you might expect. The aromas are slightly herbal and smoky, with gamy elements to go along with green olive and coffee flavors. It stands out among its peers for its Rhône-like qualities.

The Stump Jump

87

11

South Australia

McLaren Vale

null

Shiraz

D'Arenberg

null

US

A blend of Olsen Estates and Stillwater Creek vineyards, this wine pops with heaping amounts of black pepper and raw meat aromas along with dried herb grace notes. It's full of fruit and savory flavors, with firm tannins backing it all up. An impressive wine, this should have a long life ahead of it.

null

92

36

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Monastrell

Flying Dreams

null

Italy

This is made using fruit from one of the most beautiful spots on Earth, so it's no wonder this dessert wine is so delicious. Sweet peach, honey and candied almond notes open the fragrant bouquet.

Capofaro

93

40

Sicily & Sardinia

Salina

null

Malvasia

Tasca d'Almerita

null

US

Richly ripe in black cherry and chocolate, this is a blend of Merlot, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel and Petit Verdot. Generous tannins give way to a soft, smooth mouthfeel and a burst of blackberry and leather, finishing in spicy cinnamon and black pepper.

Cellar 1879 Blend

88

25

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Red Blend

Markham

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Markham 2013 Cellar 1879 Blend Red (Napa Valley)

US

This is a very good wine, and this everyday price makes it a real bargain. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, it's more proof of California's ability to produce complex Rhône blends.

Heritage Cuvée

89

14

California

Santa Barbara County

Central Coast

Rhône-style Red Blend

Curtis

null

Argentina

Popcorn is the overriding characteristic on this oaky Chardonnay. On the nose, it's movie popcorn with toast and baked apple. In the mouth, it's more popcorn along with buttered toast, salt and baked white-fruit flavors. And on the finish, there's woody flavors, toast and you guessed it, more popcorn.

de Uco

85

20

Mendoza Province

Uco Valley

null

Chardonnay

DiamAndes

null

France

Toast and brioche aromas lead this rich, generous wine. It has considerable bottle age, meaning the youthful freshness has been replaced by a mature character. Dry in style yet quite ripe, this is a Champagne for food.

Extra Brut

91

40

Champagne

null

Champagne Blend

Vincent Couche

null

US

The is dry and well balanced, with red licorice, red currant and cola flavors that are enhanced by smoky oak influence. The alcohol shows through with some peppery heat. Drink now.

Reserve

88

35

California

Paso Robles

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Cerro Prieto

null

US

Made in a full-bodied style with a density of firm tannins, this wine offers a mix of ripe black cherry and black licorice notes, the core succulent and strong.

null

90

50

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Pinot Noir

Screen Door Cellars

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Screen Door Cellars 2014 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)

US

This is an expansive, chewy and full-bodied wine, well made and enjoyable in its complementary components of blackberry and currant. Those ripe, fruity aspects play well off of recurring clove and cigar-box spice, the wine textured and robustly lingering.

Gaspare Vineyard

91

90

California

Oak Knoll District

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Black Stallion

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Black Stallion 2012 Gaspare Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Oak Knoll District)

US

This is a delight—a supple, polished, ripe and full-throttle Pinot Noir offered at a mid-1990s price. Winemaker Aron Hess keeps the alcohol at 13.5%, the oak a moderate 20% new, and the earthy underpinnings gracefully in check. Lush purple and blue fruits are lightly licked with chocolate; the result is a very satisfying mouthful of wine.

Lia's Vineyard

91

24

Oregon

Chehalem Mountains

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Longplay

null

US

A decent everyday Chard, with ripe flavors of pineapples, peaches and pears, and an oaky influence of vanilla and buttercream.

null

84

10

California

California Other

Chardonnay

Virgin

null

Spain

A bit roasted and reedy smelling, with a hint of stem and grass mixed with berry and leather. The palate is full and feels creamy, with mildly roasted black fruit and leathery flavors. Good on the finish as the wine picks up steam and clarity with airing.

Reserva

88

25

Northern Spain

Ribera del Duero

null

Tinto Fino

Viña Mayor

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Viña Mayor 2005 Reserva (Ribera del Duero)

France

From a biodynamic vineyard in the heart of Sancerre, this wine is tight, mineral-driven and very young, well balanced between herbal and citrus flavors. These are lifted and filled out with the ripe Rocha pear flavors that give an extra juicy element. The wine will age well and will be better after 2018.

Guigne-Chèvres

92

65

Loire Valley

Sancerre

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Domaine Vacheron

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Domaine Vacheron 2014 Guigne-Chèvres (Sancerre)

France

In a modern, smooth style, with plush fruit and dusty tannins, this is a ripe, open wine, an easy expression of Malbec, New World in its fruitiness.

Zette Rouge

88

9

Southwest France

Cahors

null

Malbec

Château Lagrézette

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château Lagrézette 2005 Zette Rouge Malbec (Cahors)

Chile

Light strawberry aromas are a bit green and herbal. The mouthfeel is fresh but dilute, while flavors of oak and creamy tasting red-berry fruits finish firm but without a lot of depth. This is good for quaffing but doesn't go beyond that.

Duette

86

20

Casablanca Valley

null

Pinot Noir

Indomita

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Indomita 2011 Duette Pinot Noir (Casablanca Valley)

Bulgaria

Aromas of bright lemon zest, freshly cut grass, passion fruit and grapefruit lead to flavors of kumquat, mango and lemongrass. There's salty minerality and a nice touch of acidity on the finish.

null

86

14

Danube River Plains

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Chateau Burgozone

Jeff Jenssen

@worldwineguys

Chateau Burgozone 2012 Sauvignon Blanc (Danube River Plains)

US

A relatively light and civilized version of a notoriously dark and full-bodied varietal. The color is a medium purple. An aroma of grilled vegetables leads to satisfying cherry flavors carried on a moderately tannic but not extreme texture.

Family Reserve

85

8

California

California Other

Petite Sirah

Oak Grove

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Oak Grove 2012 Family Reserve Petite Sirah (California)

US

This blends 61% Sauvignon Blanc, 36% Sémillon and 3% Chardonnay, opening in strong currents of honey caramel and dried apricot, with a back note of raisin. Voluptuous and nutty, it drinks big in style and personality, delivering plenty of defined flavor.

Small Lot Collection White

89

32

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Meritage

Raymond

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Raymond 2014 Small Lot Collection White Meritage (Napa Valley)

Turkey

Light straw in the glass, this wine is a nice example of the indigenous Turkish grape Narince. The bouquet yields soft notes of guava and white melon, while it is much bolder on the palate, offering flavors of grapefruit, carambola, and eucalyptus. The pleasing of interplay of tropical fruit and cool notes continues into a zesty finish with touches of mint.

null

87

15

Ankara

null

Narince

Vinkara

Mike DeSimone

@worldwineguys

Vinkara 2013 Narince (Ankara)

Austria

A wonderful, rich wine that brings out apricot and peach flavors, topped with ginger, spice and dense black pepper. The acidity is balanced well with the ripe flavors. It is full, concentrated and worth aging for at least two years. Glass stopper.

Von Stein Reserve

92

50

Kremstal

null

Grüner Veltliner

Salomon-Undhof

null

France

This is a solid, chunky wine, rich in dark blackberry and and red plum flavors. Maybe the tannins are too hard at this stage, but its weight and rich fruit suggest aging potential. Drink from 2016..

Clos Bourbon

89

25

Bordeaux

Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château du Cros

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château du Cros 2011 Clos Bourbon (Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux)

France

This is distinctive in its Dutch gin bottle. It's full of fruit and crisp acidity, while an unusual herbal layer gives extra freshness. Tangy and aromatic, it is ready to drink.

VieVité

87

null

Provence

Côtes de Provence

null

Rosé

Domaine Sainte-Marie

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Domaine Sainte-Marie 2014 VieVité Rosé (Côtes de Provence)

US

As Barbara Streisand might have said, “Hello, gorgeous.” With brisk acidity that's almost tingly, this is basically dry, yet the exotic tropical fruit, peach and honeysuckle flavors are so pure, ending with a sweet finish. It's the perfect accompaniment to Asian-fusion fare.

Paragon Vineyard

92

17

California

Edna Valley

Central Coast

Viognier

Tangent

null

Tangent 2011 Paragon Vineyard Viognier (Edna Valley)

US

Plowbuster is Carabella's second label, offering this light, balanced, moderately priced Pinot Noir. Wild berries and cocoa powder compete with astringent tannins that taste of green tea. Though slightly bitter, it softens up when paired with heartier stews.

null

86

20

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Plowbuster

null

Spain

Begins with a sweet marshmallow creaminess on the nose, which is followed by a firm, tanninc palate with snappy cherry and raspberry flavors. Clean and easy to understand, but in the end it's a very regular wine.

Tinto

84

13

Northern Spain

Ribera del Duero

null

Tempranillo

Pago del Vostal

null

US

As impressive as the woman—a pioneer in the Napa Valley—was herself, this 100% varietal wine from the estate property high atop Diamond Mountain is powerfully elegant, intense yet refined. It begins with a high-toned, graceful entry that's rich in blueberry and chocolate, the oak smooth and integrated, with a suggestion of hand-rolled tobacco. Drink now through 2022.

Jamie

95

200

California

Diamond Mountain District

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

J. Davies

Virginie Boone

@vboone

J. Davies 2012 Jamie Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain District)

Chile

Oaky aromas of graphite, vanilla, berry fruits and plum lead to a firm clampy high-acid palate with oak-rich flavors of spiced plum and currant. Mildly green, minty flavors close out a drawing tight finish.

Barrel Select

87

13

Cachapoal Valley

null

Syrah

Santa Ema

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Santa Ema 2013 Barrel Select Syrah (Cachapoal Valley)

US

Wonderful, spicy oak aromas and ripe flavors give this eye-opening, full-bodied wine a lot to like. It has hints of new leather, cedar and tobacco along with opulent plum-like fruit and a lavish layer of fine tannins to support all the richness. This is the third 90-plus showing in the last four vintages.

null

91

32

California

Sierra Foothills

Sangiovese

La Folia Winery

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

La Folia Winery 2013 Sangiovese (Sierra Foothills)

Austria

It is easy to find the varietal character here, in a wine that has plenty of red cherry juice and tannins that spread well through the wine. It is on the jammy side of Pinot Noir, ripe, full of strawberry juice, but always with tannins present.

null

90

50

Burgenland

null

Pinot Noir

Judith Beck

null

Portugal

This ripe wine is full of apple fruits with a tight streak of citrus acidity. It's a food wine, showing a creamy texture, a light texture and attractive acidity.

Coroa d'Ouro

87

12

Douro

null

Portuguese White

Poças

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Poças 2012 Coroa d'Ouro White (Douro)

US

The gigantic flavors are there, showing the exotic, flamboyant side of Viognier. Peach, pineapple, kiwi, Key lime pie, honeysuckle blossom, roasted almond, smoky new oak and Asian spices lead to a dry, honeyed finish. There's an edgy awkwardness, though, that limits elegance. Might simply be too young. Best after mid-2008.

null

87

42

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Viognier

Pride Mountain

null

US

Here's how good unoaked Sauvignon Blanc can be. Pure Meyer lemon, citron zest and refreshingly crisp acids are all delicious, zingy and clean. There's even a backbone of steely minerality.

Paragon Vineyard

86

13

California

Edna Valley

Central Coast

Sauvignon Blanc

Tangent

null

US

Lots going on in this ripe, lusty Zin. It shows the spicy, briary character of Dry Creek, with wild blackberry, cherry and boysenberry flavors complexed with mocha, sweet vanilla and toast.

Old Vine

86

28

California

Dry Creek Valley

Sonoma

Zinfandel

Puccioni

null

US

Good price for such a lush, likeable Merlot. It's soft and rich in cherries, red currants and licorice. This is easly the best Sebastiani Merlot in many years.

null

91

24

California

Alexander Valley

Sonoma

Merlot

Sebastiani

null

Sebastiani 2009 Merlot (Alexander Valley)

Italy

Morar is a spicy Amarone with a fragrance of raisin, baked plum, tobacco and black pepper. The palate delivers lush black cherry and raspberry flavors mingled with intense white pepper, clove and nutmeg notes. It's smooth and rich with enough freshness to make this a perfect match for seasoned cheeses or roasted red meat.

Morar

92

69

Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella

null

Red Blend

Valentina Cubi

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Valentina Cubi 2008 Morar (Amarone della Valpolicella)

US

A light entry holds flavors of strawberry and tomato leaf, then turns tannic. Chewy and earthy, with more than a hint of seed and stem, this wine comes from biodynamically farmed grapes that add some earthy nuances, but put too much emphasis on green tea, stemmy flavors.

Renegade Ridge Estate

85

75

Oregon

Dundee Hills

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Archery Summit

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Archery Summit 2004 Renegade Ridge Estate Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills)

null

Aromas of cherry, blueberry and rose petal prepare the taste buds for flavors of cherry pie, vanilla custard, black pepper and Turkish delight. Tannins can feel momentarily stiff, but they are soon outweighed by bold acidity that carries into bright black cherry finish.

null

91

34

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Psagot

Mike DeSimone

@worldwineguys

Psagot 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon

US

Heavy licorice bombards the nose on this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 14% Merlot, 8% Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot, but there is plenty of cassis, fudge, brandy and mint to add complexity. Solid acid and firm tannins grab the palate's attention immediately, allowing blackberry, dried herbs and a rocky minerality to converge cleanly.

Mare Nectaris Reserve

91

52

California

Paso Robles

Central Coast

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Midnight

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Midnight 2013 Mare Nectaris Reserve Red (Paso Robles)

US

Honeylike aromas, ripe peach and apple flavors and rather full body give this wine good depth and breadth. It seems like just the thing for a picnic or to serve with cheese at a party.

null

88

26

California

Anderson Valley

null

Pinot Gris

Balo

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Balo 2014 Pinot Gris (Anderson Valley)

South Africa

With 2,000 cases imported, here's a value white composed of 80% Chenin Blanc and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. Green apple flesh and orange rind are lifted by notes of crushed yellow flowers, while green plum flavors flesh out the medium-weight mouth. Drink now.

Oak Lane

85

9

Stellenbosch

null

Chenin Blanc-Sauvignon Blanc

Beau Joubert

Lauren Buzzeo

@laurbuzz

Beau Joubert 2010 Oak Lane Chenin Blanc-Sauvignon Blanc (Stellenbosch)

US

At first, the bright Bing cherry fruit carries suggestions of anise and mint, but in the mouth the wine does not deliver all that the nose promises. The tannins turn aggressively bitter. This falls short of the outstanding 2008.

Jacob-Hart Vineyard

86

58

Oregon

Chehalem Mountains

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Rex Hill

null

US

A real success in a challenging vintage, this is a meaty, flavorful, well-built Pinot Noir. The fruit is a mix of berries, especially strawberry, with accents of peach, cola, earth, sassafras and cinnamon. The wine keeps on going; it doesn't wimp out or turn bitter. It's interesting now, but should develop even more flavor with some years of cellaring.

SV Estate

90

40

Oregon

Dundee Hills

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Stoller

null

US

From a vineyard sited near the winery, this is the most supple, balanced and evenly detailed of the 2007 red wines from Fidélitas. The lightly muscled, compact fruit flavors bring black cherry, cassis, and plum together, with a strong minerality providing subtext. A suggestion of smoke suffuses the finish.

Ciel du Cheval Vineyard

91

55

Washington

Red Mountain

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Fidelitas

null

US

Winemaker Nick Goldschmidt does wonders with this consistent vineyard source, coaxing out mocha-chocolate, black cherry and blackberry, never overpowering an earthy back note of tobacco. Medium-bodied and soft, it finishes in a swirl of smoke and is juicy and enjoyable now.

Lone Tree Vineyard

90

50

California

Alexander Valley

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

Forefathers

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Forefathers 2012 Lone Tree Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley)

France

Pegau's rare white Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend of 60% Clairette, 20% Grenache Blanc, 10% Roussanne and 10% Bourboulenc. Despite being full bodied and viscous on the palate, there's no sense of heaviness—the wine's aromas and flavors of barely ripe melon, anise and honeyed citrus seem to float on the palate, ending in a mouthwatering finish.

Cuvée Réservée

89

70

Rhône Valley

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

null

Rhône-style White Blend

Domaine du Pegau

null

US

Fresh dill, dewy herbs and a seared lemon-syrup scent makes for a dense but not treacly nose on this wine by a producer on the fringes of Gilroy. A chive accent holds attention once sipped, with a chalky minerality and a white-pepper finish, altogether proving brisk and elegant.

null

91

28

California

Santa Cruz Mountains

Central Coast

Chardonnay

Sarah's Vineyard

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Sarah's Vineyard 2013 Chardonnay (Santa Cruz Mountains)

Italy

This luscious, balanced Pinot Grigio isn't overly complex, but scores for its cactus pear and toasted almond aromas and flavors and its peppery, refreshing finish. It's medium-bodied, with just a hint of unreleased CO2 to enliven it.

Vigneto Ai Palazzi

87

15

Veneto

Piave

null

Pinot Grigio

Masottina

Joe Czerwinski

@JoeCz

Masottina 2001 Vigneto Ai Palazzi Pinot Grigio (Piave)

Portugal

Wonderfully balanced and structured, this is a wine that gives a complete series of flavors from chocolate, black stone fruits, layers of wood and finally the essential acidity. Its texture is grainy, dusty, firm and ready to age for several years.

null

94

40

Douro

null

Portuguese Red

Poeira

null

Argentina

Respectable red fruit aromas carry a slight pickled sharpness and the scent of a matchstick, while the palate is lactic and creamy, with strawberry, raspberry, plum and herbal notes. Plump and reasonably well balanced, with an herbal finish.

null

84

10

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Malbec

Ku Dé Ta

null

Portugal

The wine is ripe, generous and lightly structured. Black currant and black plum fruits surround a dry core that gives texture. It's not for long-term aging.

Tapada dos Coelheiros

86

38

Alentejano

null

Portuguese Red

Herdade dos Coelheiros

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Herdade dos Coelheiros 2009 Tapada dos Coelheiros Red (Alentejano)

France

This is a wine with austerity and a dry, firm structure. It does have fruit to give weight to its tannins and texture. With spice as well as flavors of wood aging, it's likely to age well. Drink from 2017.

null

88

75

Bordeaux

Haut-Médoc

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château du Moulin

null

Greece

Perhaps it's a trick of this wine's slightly coppery hue, but it seems to have some peach and strawberry scents along with intense pink grapefruit flavors. Its medium weight gives the impression of ripe fruit balanced by racy acids, finishing clean and crisp.

null

87

16

Santorini

null

White Blend

Heliopoulos

null

Australia

Starts with scents of lime sherbet, but also hints of herbs, kerosene and stone fruits. Citrus and underripe peaches are the main flavors. This wine is clean and fresh, but seems to lack a little flesh in the midpalate. Drink now.

null

85

17

Western Australia

null

Riesling

West Cape Howe

null

France

The acidity is the problem here. It is out of balance with what seems to be a layer of sweetness that leaves a huge hole in the middle. Screw cap.

null

81

null

Loire Valley

Sancerre

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Michel Picard

null

US

This Petite Sirah is soft and very dry, a wine to drink now and for the next few years. With its easy tannins, it shows baked fruit tart flavors of blackberries and currants, with an edge of crushed peppercorn.

Estate

87

28

California

Dry Creek Valley

Sonoma

Petite Sirah

Everett Ridge

null

Everett Ridge 2006 Estate Petite Sirah (Dry Creek Valley)

US

The color is on the light side, with a garnet to brick hue. Intriguing aromas of forest floor, tobacco and black cherry waft out of the glass. Rich flavors suggest dark fruits, clove, cola and anise, and the texture is simultaneously generous and firmly tannic. Very complex and well balanced overall, it is just nicely medium bodied.

Cerise Vineyard

92

50

California

Anderson Valley

null

Pinot Noir

Phillips Hill

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Phillips Hill 2012 Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley)

US

This wine, aged in stainless steel barrels, offers muted berry fruit, somewhat masked by aromas of rubber tire and plastic. The finish is short and slightly bitter.

Dion Vineyard

84

26

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Oak Knoll

null

Spain

With aromas of warm earth, cedar, tobacco and meaty black fruit, this covers the basics of Ribera. It feels plump, round and maybe a bit flat, with rich, ripe blackberry, prune and spice flavors. It's harmonious and full-bodied on the finish.

Reserva

90

36

Northern Spain

Ribera del Duero

null

Tinta Fina

Legaris

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Legaris 2005 Reserva (Ribera del Duero)

US

Grapey and fresh, this has plenty of acid under just-picked strawberry and pie cherry fruit flavors. It's clean and forward, with a suggestion that further bottle age will bring out hidden nuances.

null

88

25

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Barbera

Ryan Patrick

null

Italy

Mature dark-skinned berry, forest floor, truffle and chopped herb aromas unfold in the glass. The chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, licorice and an earthy hint of game alongside firm tannins.

Olinto

89

18

Tuscany

Chianti Classico

null

Red Blend

I Fabbri

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

I Fabbri 2012 Olinto (Chianti Classico)

US

This is Paraiso's most expensive Pinot, a block selection from their estate vineyard in the southern part of the Highlands. The wine is very good, although for some reason not quite up there with the 2001 or 2003. The fruity ripeness shows in the forward cherry, raspberry and cola-root beer flavors, and and wine is fully dry. Drink now.

West Terrace

88

40

California

Santa Lucia Highlands

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Paraiso Vineyards

null

France

A wine with light tannins and juicy red fruits. Though the acidity is prominent, it has a soft texture and attractive strawberry fruit flavors. Not for aging.

Duc de Rochebois

85

15

Bordeaux

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

De Mour

null

Italy

A pleasant wine showing some jammy fruit, with interesting nuances of burnt sugar. Already at its apogee, and probably should be drunk quickly.

Baric

84

13

Piedmont

Diano d'Alba

null

Red Blend

Veglio

null

Argentina

Blackberry and plum aromas have just enough leather and horsehide accents to give this wine character. The mouth is centered squarely on purple fruits like plum and wild blackberry, and the feel and finish are comfortable and fresh. Lively and with all the basics in the right places.

null

87

10

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Merlot

Alberti 154

null

Italy

Off the charts in almost every way. First, it's a Calabrian Chardonnay with tons of hangtime and oak. Second, it hardly resembles Chardonnay as we know it. The nose is oily, with lemon, baked corn and quince. The palate is custardy, ultra ripe and borderline over the top. Finishes in complex ways, with peach, apricot and nutmeg along with white pepper. More of a sommelier/explorer's wine.

Imyr

89

36

Southern Italy

Val di Neto

null

Chardonnay

Azienda Agricola Roberto Ceraudo Strongoli

null

US

This appealing wine offers notes of fresh blue plums, huckleberry, tire rubber and woodspice. The flavors show purity, intensity and length—a very pretty example of the variety.

Lawrence Vineyards

89

30

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Malbec

Gård

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Gård 2012 Lawrence Vineyards Malbec (Columbia Valley (WA))

Portugal

Soalheiro is in the heartland of Alvarinho in the northern Vinho Verde, close to Spain. This Reserva is a fine expression of the grape that has been enhanced and given added richness by light oak aging. It's a wine that should age to soften the tight crispness. Drink from the end of 2016.

Reserva

92

35

Vinho Verde

null

Alvarinho

Quinta de Soalheiro

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Quinta de Soalheiro 2014 Reserva Alvarinho (Vinho Verde)

Australia

A steak lover's Cab made in an old-school style, sturdy but not brash. Has its share of oak, to be sure, but it's the “dry tannins and black pepper flavors” kind, not the toast-and-nut route. Red plum and cherry fruit are at its firm core. Enjoyable and traditional. Imported by Pan Pacific Wines.

Grand Reserve

91

100

South Australia

Coonawarra

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Pepper Tree

null