spawn99/wine-reviews · Datasets at Hugging Face

country stringclasses 49 values	description stringlengths 18 829	designation stringlengths 1 95 ⌀	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 2.5k ⌀	province stringclasses 478 values	region_1 stringlengths 3 50 ⌀	region_2 stringclasses 18 values	variety stringclasses 726 values	winery stringlengths 1 54	taster_name stringclasses 19 values	taster_twitter_handle stringclasses 15 values	title stringlengths 12 135 ⌀
US	Middle of the road Pinot, dry, silky and balanced, with cherry, cola and rhubarb flavors. There's a hit of tannins in the finish.	Lavender Hill Vineyards	84	22	California	Carneros	Napa-Sonoma	Pinot Noir	Toad Hall	null	null	null
Argentina	There's no drop-off in this wine from the excellent 2005. Expect blackberry, cassis and dry balsam wood/cedar aromas. The palate is lush and chewy, but also vital and lively. Toasty, dark berry flavors get a softening of vanilla on the finish. A winner to drink now through 2013.	Catena Alta	92	55	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Malbec	Bodega Catena Zapata	null	null	null
US	Harvested at 22.6 degrees brix, this bright and spicy Dolcetto does not reach too far. It's tart, with fruit flavors that suggest wild berries and pomegranate, and tannins that are firm but never green. A fine quaffing wine.	null	87	20	Oregon	Umpqua Valley	Southern Oregon	Dolcetto	Abacela	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Abacela 2008 Dolcetto (Umpqua Valley)
US	High-toned cherry and orange dance around considerable toasty oak that never becomes obtrusive in this expansive, succulent wine. Smoky tobacco and violets provide a savory component that works with the fruit.	Heritage Selection	90	28	California	Alexander Valley	Sonoma	Carignane	J. Rickards	Virginie Boone	@vboone	J. Rickards 2014 Heritage Selection Carignane (Alexander Valley)
US	Despite its single-vineyard designation, this watery effort could be from anywhere. Thin, dilute, barely ripe strawberry fruit vanishes quickly once in the mouth, and there is little trace of any barrel flavors from aging in 20% new French oak.	Guadalupe Vineyard	84	25	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Wildewood	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Wildewood 2013 Guadalupe Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)
US	Tough, dry and tannic, this Cabernet punches its way through the mouth like an angry kickboxer. Deep down inside beats a heart of blackberries and black currants, impressively ripe and delicious. Will it age? Probably. Try after 2013, and could go for the long haul.	null	89	55	California	Oak Knoll District	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	In Re	null	null	null
France	Packed with great Sauvignon Blanc herbal flavors, this is a delicious wine, at the cool end of the spectrum of white wine. Grapefruit and lemon juice are enlivened by a grassy texture and crisp, fresh acidity.	La Grande Cuvée	88	12	Bordeaux	Bordeaux Blanc	null	Bordeaux-style White Blend	Dourthe	null	null	null
US	Tastes over-oaked and under-fruity, with green, stalky flavors along with Lifesaver candy pineapples and lemons. Gets the Chardonnay job done, just barely.	null	82	7	California	Monterey County	Central Coast	Chardonnay	Hilltown	null	null	null
US	Quite aromatic on first pour, this wine shows green peppercorn, violets, earth, smoked meat and savory aromas. The fruit and savory flavors are generous, showing length and depth.	La Paciencia Vineyard	93	75	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Syrah	No Girls	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	No Girls 2013 La Paciencia Vineyard Syrah (Walla Walla Valley (WA))
US	Tart acidity provides freshness and succulence to the palate of this vineyard-designate—a well-resolved expression of plum, cranberry and red currant. Plush and soft, it does the variety justice, making the case for complexity and approachability in one glass.	Stout Vineyard	91	98	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Merlot	Duckhorn	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Duckhorn 2013 Stout Vineyard Merlot (Napa Valley)
New Zealand	One of NZ's first Sauvignon producers has turned out a commendable wine in 2009, offering classic grassy-herbal aromas and expressive pineapple and herb flavors. It's crisply focused and tight, just falling off a little on the finish. Drink now.	null	87	12	Marlborough	null	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Matua Valley	null	null	null
US	Clean, crisply defined green apple and pear fruit flavors anchor this high-acid Pinot Gris. A fine choice with cream-based sauces or seafood that needs something to cut through the flavor. More bottle age could round it out.	Tikka's Run	86	19	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Gris	Lemelson	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Lemelson 2010 Tikka's Run Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley)
Australia	Aromas of very ripe and sweet fruit announce this rich, orange- and pineapple-dominated wine. Full on the palate, with the bright fruit singing. A nice dose of oak appears on the back end. Very nice, in a straightforward style. Best Buy.	null	87	10	South Australia	Barossa Valley	null	Chardonnay	Barossa Valley Estate	null	null	null
Italy	Campogiovanni is a rich, inky expression of Sangiovese Grosso with beautiful personality and length. The mouthfeel is still young and raw but the aromas already show deep evolution and harmony. You'll recognize tones of red cherry, root beer, mesquite and Indian spice.	Campogiovanni	92	50	Tuscany	Brunello di Montalcino	null	Sangiovese Grosso	San Felice	null	null	null
Italy	This Taurasi Riserva shows the beautiful and austere side of Aglianico, with penetrating notes of dried fruit, wet river stone, cigar box and crushed clove. It delivers structure and enough persistence to pair with stewed lamb and potatoes, and it can also be cellared for 10 years or more.	Riserva	92	60	Southern Italy	Taurasi	null	Aglianico	Donnachiara	null	null	null
US	This Cabernet shows its Spring Mountain terroir in the big-time tannins and concentration of black currant fruit. It's almost a wine-reduction sauce, but there's a loss of weight on the midpalate that suggests this isn't a wine to cellar, but to enjoy now.	Premium Limited Edition	87	25	California	Napa	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Publix	null	null	null
France	This fruity wine is light with apple flavors and a touch of honey. Its acidity and floral character bring out a crisp texture, and its ripe fruitiness is refreshingly attractive. Drink now.	null	87	20	France Other	Corse Porto Vecchio	null	Vermentino	Domaine Torraccia	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Domaine Torraccia 2016 Vermentino (Corse Porto Vecchio)
France	Already impressive, this wine shows great fruit for the vintage as well as structure. Ripe with black cherries and berries, it has all of Pinot Noir's rich juiciness, but hints of smoke add complexity as well. Structured and a shade dark, it needs time to mature. Drink from 2017.	null	94	225	Burgundy	Echézeaux	null	Pinot Noir	Jean-Claude Boisset	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Jean-Claude Boisset 2011 Echézeaux
US	The oak influence (20% American, 80% French) predominates on this 100% varietal wine with notes of mocha and spice. The fruit flavors are lighter in style, with a grainy feel to the tannins. Coffee flavors linger on the finish.	null	88	15	Washington	Wahluke Slope	Columbia Valley	Merlot	Seven Falls	null	null	null
Argentina	Intense black-fruit aromas mix seamlessly with notes of graphite, cedar and dried Gouda cheese. This Bordeaux blend is firm and bolstered by grabby tannins and fresh acidity. Ripe flavors of blackberry, cassis, mocha and vanilla end with a lemony oak note, additional mocha and a hint of wood spice. Drink through 2022.	Synthesis The Blend	93	53	Mendoza Province	Tupungato	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Finca Sophenia	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Finca Sophenia 2012 Synthesis The Blend Red (Tupungato)
US	Initially a bit funky, this wine opened up to offer pretty cassis and fresh blackberry fruit couched in a bed of medium acid and soft tannins. Mushroom and plum tones on the finish hang around for just a bit. Drink up.	null	83	25	Colorado	Grand Valley	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Canyon Wind	null	null	Canyon Wind 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Grand Valley)
France	This is an apple-fresh sparkling wine with a lively mousse. It crisp, refreshing and clean, with attractive fruitiness.	Brut Méthode Ancestrale	87	19	Southwest France	Gaillac	null	Mauzac	Domaine du Moulin	null	null	null
US	This is rich in pineapple, mango, honey and smoky vanilla flavors, with a creamy richness and bracing acidity.	Sonoma Signature	86	20	California	Sonoma Coast	Sonoma	Chardonnay	Don & Sons	null	null	null
US	The most reserved of this winery's Grenache studies, this bottling shows baked red cherry, red currant, cola and slate on the nose. An iron-based minerality shows on the earthy palate, which also offers chipped slate, cranberry and tart cherry elements. It's a tad light but still intriguingly textured.	Larner	90	42	California	Ballard Canyon	Central Coast	Grenache	Casa Dumetz	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Casa Dumetz 2014 Larner Grenache (Ballard Canyon)
US	Two of the crispest and most savory white varieties in California are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio, and this blend of both shows the best qualities of each. It's just slightly off-dry and vibrant in citrus, fig, melon and vanilla flavors, with beautiful acidity.	Blanc Gris	87	18	California	California	California Other	White Blend	Vision Cellars	null	null	Vision Cellars 2006 Blanc Gris White (California)
Italy	Dark and savory, this has masculine aromas of cured meat, leather and tobacco. It shows huge density and richness on the palate, with ripe prune, blackberry and currant notes. This Carignano would pair with barbecued pork.	Mantènghja	92	87	Sicily & Sardinia	Isola dei Nuraghi	null	Carignano	Capichera	null	null	Capichera 2007 Mantènghja Carignano (Isola dei Nuraghi)
US	Much as I love the winery's La Paulée, this tops it. There's more concentration and complex blueberry, mulberry, black cherry and plum flavors. It shows a whiff or two of mint, sage and chervil, and as with all Scott Paul wines it is impeccably balanced, non-interventionist and studiously clean.	Audrey	91	50	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Scott Paul	null	null	null
US	A lovely Pinot Noir, dry and silky, giving lots of pleasure in the mouth. Shows polished cherry, raspberry and spice flavors. From Cargasacchi.	Salsipuedes	89	20	California	Santa Barbara County	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Point Concepción	null	null	Point Concepción 2009 Salsipuedes Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County)
France	While this wine is herbaceous, the attractive aspect lies in its lemon and orange zest flavors that are full and bright. It's crisp while deliciously fruity, ready to drink.	Le Roi des Pierres	85	30	Loire Valley	Sancerre	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Jean Maréchal	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Jean Maréchal 2013 Le Roi des Pierres (Sancerre)
US	Dark, soft, full-bodied and slightly sweet, this Pinot clearly shows its warm-climate origins. It tastes of jammy blackberries, cherries and raspberries.	Russell Family Vineyard	86	50	California	Paso Robles	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Loring Wine Company	null	null	Loring Wine Company 2006 Russell Family Vineyard Pinot Noir (Paso Robles)
US	A beautiful Cabernet that shows the promise of this Lake County appellation. Coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. It's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.	Obsidian Ridge Vineyard	90	28	California	Red Hills Lake County	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Obsidian Ridge	null	null	Obsidian Ridge 2007 Obsidian Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Red Hills Lake County)
France	A ripe, new-wood-dominated wine, this is smooth and polished in feel, while the powerful tannins of rich Malbec are preserved. It's dense, dark and concentrated, and the plum and blackberry fruits are layered with the dry, firm tannins and are lightened by the juicy acidity. This needs at least 6–7 years to show its best.	GC	94	130	Southwest France	Cahors	null	Malbec	Château du Cèdre	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château du Cèdre 2009 GC Malbec (Cahors)
Italy	Enticing aromas of pear, white flower, exotic fruit and a whiff of Mediterranean herb lift out of the glass. On the bright palate, a light mineral vein underscores green apple, pineapple and banana while fresh acidity adds zest.	S	87	22	Southern Italy	Campania	null	Falanghina	Di Meo	null	null	null
France	This 95% Syrah wine (with 5% Grenache) is thick and hearty with a strong black fruit core augmented by nuances of flinty minerality, dark chocolate, tobacco and leather. Chewy and firm in the mouth with assertive tannins that linger through the finish. It could use some time to integrate and mellow; try after 2012.	Apogée	88	25	Languedoc-Roussillon	Saint-Chinian	null	Syrah	Les Vignobles Foncalieu	null	null	null
US	Renwood's tiny two-barrel production of its most expensive Zinfandel has aromas like vanilla and coconut and flavors as rich as milk chocolate and strawberry jam. This full-bodied wine is practically a liquid dessert, though it's not overly sweet. It's full-bodied, smooth and broad in texture.	Grand Wren	90	100	California	Amador County	Sierra Foothills	Zinfandel	Renwood	null	null	null
US	Lemberger is a grapy red, with broad and simple fruit flavors, often with a rustic, tannic finish. Here it's been done in a lighter style, with a dried leaf note and lightly dusty tannins.	null	86	16	Washington	Rattlesnake Hills	Columbia Valley	Lemberger	Two Mountain	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Two Mountain 2010 Lemberger (Rattlesnake Hills)
US	Very ripe, almost jammy in apricots, pineapples and pears, this Chard seems sweet, like sugared or honeyed pie-filling. The finish is a bit cloying.	null	82	16	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Chardonnay	Mia's Playground	null	null	null
Italy	Fresh and full-bodied, this offers aromas of black-skinned fruit, underbrush and dark cooking spice. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, plum jam and black pepper alongside polished tannins and fresh acidity.	Lurei	88	24	Piedmont	Barbera d'Asti Superiore	null	Barbera	Il Falchetto	null	null	null
US	A very nice Cabernet that's superdrinkable because of its soft, appealing fruit, but also has plenty of complexity. Cherries, blackberries, blueberries and dark chocolate are enriched with spicy oak notes, leading to a long, balanced finish.	null	89	26	California	Sonoma Valley	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	Schug	null	null	Schug 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma Valley)
US	Fermentation was done in a mix of stainless steel and French oak, yielding a soft, accessible, lightly spiced wine. Flavors mix notes of fresh cut grass and celery with melony fruit.	Estate Grown	87	14	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Sauvignon Blanc	Preston	null	null	null
US	A fine Sauvignon Blanc and, at this price, a good value, especially for sommeliers, who can recommend it with a wide array of foods. Slightly sweet in the finish, it's crisp in acids, with pineapple, spearmint, lemongrass and vanilla flavors.	Fumé Blanc	86	15	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Sauvignon Blanc	Dry Creek Vineyard	null	null	Dry Creek Vineyard 2007 Fumé Blanc Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma County)
US	Stainless-steel fermentation yields a tangy, ripe, tart, tongue-tickling Gewurztraminer with exceptional minerality. The echoing varietal flavors of flower and rosewater add interest to the finish. Still a bit yeasty, but should improve with a little more bottle age.	Temperance Hill Vineyard	87	19	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Gewürztraminer	Lumos	null	null	null
US	Delicious and succulent, a gigantic Zinfandel. Impresses for the powerful ripeness of the blackberry, plum and cherry fruit, accented with waves of smoky wood, cocoa and Asian spices. The tannins are rich and strong. Will age for a long time, gradually losing density and becoming softer and sweeter.	null	90	27	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Zinfandel	Titus	null	null	Titus 2007 Zinfandel (Napa Valley)
New Zealand	Smoky aromas of hickory-laced dark fruit lead the way, easily sliding into boysenberry and bacon notes on the palate. The flavors are meaty and savory, not simply fruity, while the texture is lush. One of the best examples of Peg Bay Pinot Noir in memory, it finishes long, framed by supple tannins. Drink now–2020.	null	91	40	Waipara Valley	null	null	Pinot Noir	Pegasus Bay	null	null	null
Italy	Petruccino is a delightful and elegant wine with great red fruit intensity folded within leather, spice and tobacco. The blend is Sangiovese (60%), Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and the wine offers crispness, softness and structure, respectively, thanks to these three varieties.	Petruccino	91	null	Tuscany	Orcia	null	Red Blend	Podere Forte	null	null	Podere Forte 2007 Petruccino Red (Orcia)
France	This lively, crisply acidic wine hints at toast, but goes much more for a delicious citrus character. There's a great freshness to the wine, showing some pear flavors and a fine edge of apple skins.	Les Morats	87	22	Burgundy	Saint-Véran	null	Chardonnay	Château de Fuissé	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château de Fuissé 2006 Les Morats (Saint-Véran)
US	Shows a welcome return to form after the '06. This time, the butterscotchy oak plays a supporting role, allowing the pineapple, pear, guava and mineral flavors to shine. Beautiful and elegant.	S Block	93	36	California	Carneros	Napa-Sonoma	Chardonnay	Cuvaison	null	null	null
US	A dry, crisp Pinot Noir with interestingly ripe flavors of cherries, oranges and cola. Maybe a little overpriced for what you get, but it's a pretty wine.	null	86	34	California	Central Coast	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Williams Selyem	null	null	Williams Selyem 2008 Pinot Noir (Central Coast)
France	This biodynamic estate produces some very fine wines, expressive of their soil types. This still-young wine from volcanic rock is ripe while also intensely structured. It has the potential for great fruitiness while keeping this structure. Drink from 2018.	Orthogneiss Sur Lie	92	24	Loire Valley	Muscadet Sèvre et Maine	null	Melon	Domaine de l'Ecu	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Domaine de l'Ecu 2016 Orthogneiss Sur Lie (Muscadet Sèvre et Maine)
US	Soft and slightly one-dimensional, this bears blackberry and cherry jam flavors enriched with smoky oak. There's a funky, Syrah-like bacon note, too. It's not likely to improve with age, so drink up.	Dr. Konrad's Vineyard	85	59	California	Mount Veeder	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Fields Family	null	null	Fields Family 2009 Dr. Konrad's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Mount Veeder)
Austria	This is a full-bodied wine with a citrus streak of acidity to go with peach and apricot flavors. It is rich, just hinting at minerality, generous in mouthfeel.	Vom Gelben Löss	90	21	Wagram-Donauland	null	null	Riesling	Josef Ehmoser	null	null	null
Portugal	Earthy, youthful aromas lead to a wine that's ripe while still finding its fruity character. The potential for the citrus and apricot flavors is there and should develop by mid-2015.	Oscar's Branco	84	12	Douro	null	null	Portuguese White	Quevedo	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Quevedo 2013 Oscar's Branco White (Douro)
US	Dark, concentrated and practically dripping with ripe berry flavors, this wine shows the benefit of extra aging. It is unusually focused and delicious. Hints of cocoa and coffee join the dark blueberry and blackberry-syrup flavors, with very little evidence of oak.	Estate	92	28	California	Livermore Valley	Central Coast	Syrah	Fenestra	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Fenestra 2011 Estate Syrah (Livermore Valley)
US	A robust, spicy Zinfandel made for drinking now. It's dry and full-bodied, with blackberry, black currant, oatmeal raisin cookie and pepper flavors.	null	85	17	California	Lake County	Mendocino/Lake Counties	Zinfandel	Angel's Secret	null	null	null
US	Generously filling and satisfying, this Bordeaux-styled blend is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It's medium in oak and tannin, with a toasty character underlying red cherry, currant and cassis, the ending marked by cedar and clove.	Proprietary	88	49	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Hensteeth	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Hensteeth 2009 Proprietary Red (Sonoma County)
France	From a 15-acre vineyard owned by Georges Duboeuf. It is a big, bold, ripe wine backed by light wood flavors, and juicy red plum fruits. It is vivid, colorful and solid.	Château des Capitans	90	null	Beaujolais	Juliénas	null	Gamay	Georges Duboeuf	null	null	null
Italy	Aromas of mature plum, dark berry and violet lead the way. On the straightforward palate, hints of toast and espresso add a bit of depth to the dried cherry core. Dusty but fleeting tannins lead to a slightly raspy finish.	Piegaia Riserva	87	25	Tuscany	Chianti Classico	null	Sangiovese	Villa Calcinaia	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Villa Calcinaia 2012 Piegaia Riserva (Chianti Classico)
US	Intensely herbaceous with a woody characteristic and touch of green olive, this estate-grown wine offers tight-grained tannins and a lift of acidity around deeper notes of cassis and chocolate. From a vineyard in St. Helena, it shows the relative coolness of the vintage.	Estate	90	48	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Franc	Casa Nuestra	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Casa Nuestra 2011 Estate Cabernet Franc (Napa Valley)
US	If you think you don't like Merlot, try this one. It shows classic Napa Valley structure, with smooth, firm tannins and seductive flavors of sweet cherries, plums and currants. Delicious now with a good steak.	Estate	91	32	California	Rutherford	Napa	Merlot	Rutherford Grove	null	null	Rutherford Grove 2008 Estate Merlot (Rutherford)
US	A blend of the big three Cabernet valleys, Alexander, Sonoma and Dry Creek. Polished and elegant, with good berry flavors balanced with green olive, dill, unsweetened chocolate and earth. Feels plush in the mouth, smooth and soft, but complex. Good enough for your best fare.	null	90	16	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	St. Francis	null	null	null
Italy	Crushed black cherry, leather, tobacco, anise, underbrush and grilled herb are just some of the aromas and flavors offered by this concentrated, vibrant wine. Firm acidity and chewy tannins provide the structure, while a licorice note marks the lingering finish.	Vigneto di Campolungo Gran Selezione	94	40	Tuscany	Chianti Classico	null	Red Blend	Lamole di Lamole	null	null	null
US	Definitely on the sweet side, this has jellied raspberry and vanilla bean flavors. Crisp acidity provides fortunate balance.	No. 8 Pinot Noir	85	25	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Rosé	JCB	null	null	null
New Zealand	A fruit-driven style, showing plenty of black cherries, accented by cola, herb and spice notes. The palate is pleasantly smooth and satiny in texture before turning tart on the finish. Drink now-2010.	null	87	20	Marlborough	null	null	Pinot Noir	The Crossings	null	null	null
France	From one of the many cru estates that are run by Beaujolais merchant Georges Duboeuf, this wine is smooth, generous and juicy. It has red-cherry fruit that is surrounded by some firm tannins as well as juicy acidity. Drink from late 2017.	Domaine de Javernière	88	20	Beaujolais	Morgon	null	Gamay	Georges Duboeuf	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Georges Duboeuf 2015 Domaine de Javernière (Morgon)
US	And now for something completely different, this wine explodes in whole-cluster, carbonic freshness and surprise. It's a light cerebral take on the variety that delights at every turn. Stainless-steel fermented and aged, it's loaded in raspberry and cherry-jam flavors and dipped in black licorice. It's fresh, fruity and entirely memorable.	Springloaded Monkey Paw Luc's Vineyard	94	41	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Tempranillo	Sheldon	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Sheldon 2016 Springloaded Monkey Paw Luc's Vineyard Tempranillo (Sonoma County)
US	I like the elegance, but it seems like it was rushed to market. It will certainly benefit from cellaring, as it's young and rude in acids right now, and not showing well. But there's something here in the vast heart of cherries and pomegranates and overall balance. Should improve by the end of 2007, and hold for another five years.	Keefer Ranch Vineyard	91	53	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Pinot Noir	Siduri	null	null	null
Austria	Freshly cut pear, some peardrop candy and a wonderfully zippy lemon freshness combine on a light, slender body into a very refreshing, even exciting palate that also has very slight echoes of yellow miso and fresh lovage. There is focus and precision—but this may need a little bottle age before unfolding completely. Drink 2017–2022.	Urgestein Terrassen Smaragd	93	null	Wachau	null	null	Grüner Veltliner	F X Pichler	Anne Krebiehl MW	@AnneInVino	F X Pichler 2015 Urgestein Terrassen Smaragd Grüner Veltliner (Wachau)
US	If more Syrah tasted like this, the variety just might overtake Cabernet in popularity. It's really good, combining a dry, firm structure with lush flavors, in the way of blackberries, blueberries, currants and a meatiness like the sweet, charred fat on a steak. Kudos to vintner Murray for bottling it in a screwtop.	Watch Hill Vineyard	93	36	California	Central Coast	Central Coast	Syrah	Andrew Murray	null	null	Andrew Murray 2009 Watch Hill Vineyard Syrah (Central Coast)
Italy	Here's a vibrant and etched Brunello riserva that opens with a dark, inky color and pretty aromas of dark fruit and plum followed by tobacco and spice. The wine leaves a large and long-lasting impression in the mouth with bright acidity and delicate nuances of crushed stone and white pepper on the close. Drink after 2018.	Riserva	94	95	Tuscany	Brunello di Montalcino	null	Sangiovese Grosso	Podere Brizio	null	null	Podere Brizio 2007 Riserva (Brunello di Montalcino)
Italy	This Riserva Pinot Bianco boasts inviting aromas of almond nut, stone fruit, honey and roasted chestnuts. The wine is full and round with thick density and a blast of mature fruit on the close. Pair it with duck or pork-based dishes.	Vorberg Riserva	90	28	Northeastern Italy	Alto Adige	null	Pinot Bianco	Cantina Terlano	null	null	Cantina Terlano 2005 Vorberg Riserva Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige)
US	What a nice wine for drinking now and over the next few years. At the age of nearly four, it's mellow and rich, with the blackberry fruit and oak flavors achieving a savory marriage. Finishes dry, spicy and tart.	null	88	30	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Billhook	null	null	Billhook 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Italy	Subdued aromas of ripe dark berry, violet, spice and a whiff of Alpine herb come together on this. The lively, straightforward palate offers up black raspberry, blackberry and nutmeg alongside velvety tannins. Drink soon.	null	88	20	Northeastern Italy	Alto Adige	null	Lagrein	Girlan	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Girlan 2013 Lagrein (Alto Adige)
France	Attractive fresh raspberry fruit and a touch of acidity mark this bright clean wine.	Bourgogne Côtes d'Auxerre Rosé	85	15	Burgundy	Bourgogne	null	Pinot Noir	Simonnet-Febvre	null	null	null
Germany	One of the few examples of wine made from roter, or red, Riesling, this slightly salmon-hued bottling showcases the variety's characteristically berried perfume. It's taut with acidity yet satisfyingly full in body, offering generous layers of sour-plum, berry and red-apple flavors. The finish is tinged by a lingering hint of caramel.	Roter	90	46	Rheingau	null	null	Riesling	Baron Knyphausen	Anna Lee C. Iijima	null	Baron Knyphausen 2015 Roter Riesling (Rheingau)
Australia	This vintage of Cigale's GSM showcases more Grenache (63%) than in the past, which perhaps accounts for its slightly one-dimensional cherry fruitiness. Very supple, verging on syrupy in texture, it also shows a bit of warmth on the finish. Drink now–2012.	Grenache-Mourvèdre-Shiraz	86	19	South Australia	Barossa Valley	null	G-S-M	Cigale	null	null	null
US	This is a straightforward easy-drinker with aromas of cantaloupe and kiwi leading to off-dry, lightly styled fruit flavors.	null	85	11	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Sauvignon Blanc	Songbird	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Songbird 2014 Sauvignon Blanc (Columbia Valley (WA))
US	This garagiste-sized project presents a complex take in this 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah project, with tight boysenberry, slight asphalt, pressed violets and black pepper on the nose. There is a pronounced density of black fruit on the palate, with blueberry dominant, as well as gingerbread warmth, roasted pork, hoisin sauce and a strong tannic grip.	First Born King	92	34	California	Paso Robles	Central Coast	Grenache-Syrah	Rendarrio Vineyards	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Rendarrio Vineyards 2012 First Born King Grenache-Syrah (Paso Robles)
US	A first-rate wine, with well-ripened flavors of blackberries, espresso, cola, tea, and bitter chocolate, but made more interesting by fresh acidity not often seen in today's better Merlots. This cool-climate wine also has sturdy tannins that suggest mid-term aging.	Windacre Vineyard	88	34	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Merlot	Merriam	null	null	Merriam 2000 Windacre Vineyard Merlot (Russian River Valley)
US	Good blackberry, currant and cedar flavors, and properly dry, with a good background of smoky oak. But it's way too soft, causing structural collapse.	null	83	40	California	California	California Other	Meritage	Malibu	null	null	null
US	Appeals to the popular palate with white sugar, apricot, orange, pineapple and oak flavors. The apparent sweetness suggests pairing with cured meats. A weekend brunch with a ham omelet will be fine.	null	86	29	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Chardonnay	The Federalist	null	null	The Federalist 2011 Chardonnay (Russian River Valley)
France	A beautifully ripe wine, layered with the richest fruit, the acidity offering a bright moment within the richness. Botrytis is there, like a hard core for the pillow of ripe apricots, lychees, spice and fine freshness.	null	95	null	Bordeaux	Sauternes	null	Bordeaux-style White Blend	Château Clos Haut-Peyraguey	null	null	null
US	A vivid, refreshing blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Pinot Gris seems to bring out the best of both. Viognier's floral, orange and peach scents and flavors are supported by hints of honeysuckle and pear from the Pinot Gris. There is a little spritz to liven up the mouthfeel.	PGV White Wine	90	16	Washington	Washington	Washington Other	White Blend	Thurston Wolfe	null	null	null
Italy	This is a ripe and thickly extracted wine with sweet aromas of cherry liqueur, moist tobacco, cured meat and exotic spice. It's big and bold on all levels and needs to be paired with an equally succulent food like grilled steak. You'll get chocolate, espresso and mesquite over the wine's rich and velvety close.	null	94	112	Tuscany	Toscana	null	Syrah	Tua Rita	null	null	null
US	Well oaked, with a toasty, vanilla-infused cream and caramel edge, this polished Chard has peach custard flavors dusted with cinnamon, nutmeg and candied ginger. It's delicious and complex. The word “rich” doesn't begin to do it justice.	Pugash Vineyard	92	45	California	Sonoma Mountain	Sonoma	Chardonnay	Mi Sueño	null	null	null
Germany	The restrained nose shows some white peach notes, lees and stony minerality. This is complex, layered and persistent across the palate, opening up to ample stone fruit flavors, earthy notes, dried herbs and spice. Crisp, with sweetness, moderately concentrated flavors and a rich texture all in balance, if a little loose knit on the finish.	Trittenheimer Apotheke Spätlese	89	31	Mosel	null	null	Riesling	Clusserath-Weiler	null	null	null
France	Made in a fruit-driven style with an undercurrent of stony minerality, this medium-bodied blend of Grenache Blanc and Roussanne hints at pear and citrus. Drink now.	Réserve	87	12	Rhône Valley	Costières de Nîmes	null	Rhône-style White Blend	Château de Nages	null	null	null
Australia	From winemaker Chris Ringland and viticulturalist Russell Johnstone; Ringland is the winemaker of the Rockford and Chris Ringland (née Three Rivers) wines. The Rockford wines cost about $40. The Chris Ringland wines? $400, if you're lucky. In any case, this Grenache is a bargain. It tastes like a well-done Rhône red, medium-slender in the mouth, with cherry/black cherry flavors and minimal wood. Aromas are of earth and cola, and the finish is clean.	Vox Populi	87	10	South Australia	Barossa Valley	null	Grenache	RBJ	null	null	null
US	The pedigree of this Syrah is top-notch. The vineyard was planted by one of the owners of the fine Cabernet house, Surh Luchtel, and one of the winery's co-owners works at the von Strasser winery. The wine itself shows promise, but is a little too ripe and sweet for comfort, with jammy, stewed blackberry, cherry and cola flavors that have been well-oaked.	Fortunati Vineyard	86	30	California	Oak Knoll District	Napa	Syrah	Schulz	null	null	null
US	Thick and peachy, with the weight of Roussanne (19%) married to the elegance of the Viognier (81%), this barrel-fermented, oak-aged wine displays intense fruit flavors of apricot, white peach and citrus. Round and fleshy, it retains sufficient acid to prevent a flabby impression. A nice kiss of vanilla sends it on its way.	null	90	25	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Viognier	Bergevin Lane	null	null	null
US	A good Cab, dry and balanced, whose tannins are richly impressive and sweet. Shows a good tension between the oak and the ripe black currants. Easy to like, and should develop for a few years.	null	90	35	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	Wild Oak by St. Francis	null	null	Wild Oak by St. Francis 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma County)
South Africa	The 2009 Gypsy, unlike the 2008, includes no Mourvèdre in the blend, meaning it's just Grenache and Syrah, at about half each. This is a powerful and intense wine, with forward aromas and flavors of cherry, black plum and boysenberry that are spiced with notes of crushed purple florals, black pepper and licorice. With medium-plus tannins, bold flavors, a firm texture and a long finish, this is one that is both drinking well now and should also age nicely through 2016.	The Gypsy	92	65	Stellenbosch	null	null	Grenache-Syrah	Ken Forrester	Lauren Buzzeo	@laurbuzz	Ken Forrester 2009 The Gypsy Grenache-Syrah (Stellenbosch)
US	This is a Bordeaux blend based on Cabernet Sauvignon, with a drop of Petite Sirah for color and tannins. It's rich and deep in blackberry, currant and dark chocolate flavors, and balanced with big-time tannins and a fine cut of acidity. Doesn't seem like an ager despite the astringency, so drink it soon with rich meats and cheeses.	Bay's Blend	91	38	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Red Blend	Reid Family Vineyards	null	null	null
US	A vineyard change in 2008 moves the source of the grapes north from Red Mountain to the Royal Slope. Young vines yield rather tight, bare flavors, with sweet grain and vanilla components contributed by the oak barrel (just one barrel was produced).	Stillwater Creek Vineyard	86	30	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Mourvèdre	:Nota Bene	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	:Nota Bene 2008 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Mourvèdre (Columbia Valley (WA))
Germany	At $12 for a single-vineyard kabinett, this is an excellent value, delivering exotic honey, apricot and spice notes. The texture is creamy and silky; the finish is lush and soft. Drink it over the next few years.	Erdener Treppchen Kabinett	89	12	Mosel-Saar-Ruwer	null	null	Riesling	Gräflich von Hohenthal'Scher	null	null	null
Germany	The nose lacks punch, offering only faint notes of melon and white flowers while the crisp, fairly dry palate sails by on fleeting notes of white raspberry and pomelo. Not one for aging.	Trocken	82	null	Rheinhessen	null	null	Riesling	Weingut Liebfrauenstift	null	null	null
US	This tastes barely ripe, and the 12.5% alcohol listing—quite low for this variety—seems to confirm the impression. It's high in acid, with thin, sharp tannins, and without the balancing heft and sweetness to the fruit. That said, it would be perfectly compatible with a grilled steak, much like a simple Bordeaux.	null	84	26	Oregon	Southern Oregon	Southern Oregon	Cabernet Franc	Cliff Creek	null	null	null
Italy	A blend of 50% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc, this offers aromas of ripe black currant, tilled earth and tobacco. The full-bodied palate doles out black cherry, cedar and mocha alongside ample velvety tannins. Drink 2017–2023.	null	91	90	Tuscany	Toscana	null	Red Blend	Orma	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Orma 2013 Red (Toscana)
US	A huge Zinfandel, with ultraripe, powerful berry, cocoa, bacon and spice flavors. That tremendous power comes at the cost of exceptionally high alcohol, which gives the wine a chili pepper burn. Forewarned is forearmed.	Montecillo Vineyard Kaarin's Terrace	88	40	California	Sonoma Valley	Sonoma	Zinfandel	St. Francis	null	null	St. Francis 2009 Montecillo Vineyard Kaarin's Terrace Zinfandel (Sonoma Valley)
US	Sharp and tannic, this wine hides its thin fruit behind gluey flavors of tobacco and licorice.	Grand Reserve	81	30	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Silver Lake	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Silver Lake 2003 Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA))
US	This has notes of black cherry and smoky tar. It's tannins can barely be wrapped around one's lips on first sip, but let the wine open (and/or age) and its black cherry, berry, coffee and mint components swirl together in exciting ways.	Estate	88	28	California	Amador County	Sierra Foothills	Zinfandel	Andis	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Andis 2010 Estate Zinfandel (Amador County)

US

Middle of the road Pinot, dry, silky and balanced, with cherry, cola and rhubarb flavors. There's a hit of tannins in the finish.

Lavender Hill Vineyards

84

22

California

Carneros

Napa-Sonoma

Pinot Noir

Toad Hall

null

Argentina

There's no drop-off in this wine from the excellent 2005. Expect blackberry, cassis and dry balsam wood/cedar aromas. The palate is lush and chewy, but also vital and lively. Toasty, dark berry flavors get a softening of vanilla on the finish. A winner to drink now through 2013.

Catena Alta

92

55

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Malbec

Bodega Catena Zapata

null

US

Harvested at 22.6 degrees brix, this bright and spicy Dolcetto does not reach too far. It's tart, with fruit flavors that suggest wild berries and pomegranate, and tannins that are firm but never green. A fine quaffing wine.

null

87

20

Oregon

Umpqua Valley

Southern Oregon

Dolcetto

Abacela

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Abacela 2008 Dolcetto (Umpqua Valley)

US

High-toned cherry and orange dance around considerable toasty oak that never becomes obtrusive in this expansive, succulent wine. Smoky tobacco and violets provide a savory component that works with the fruit.

Heritage Selection

90

28

California

Alexander Valley

Sonoma

Carignane

J. Rickards

Virginie Boone

@vboone

J. Rickards 2014 Heritage Selection Carignane (Alexander Valley)

US

Despite its single-vineyard designation, this watery effort could be from anywhere. Thin, dilute, barely ripe strawberry fruit vanishes quickly once in the mouth, and there is little trace of any barrel flavors from aging in 20% new French oak.

Guadalupe Vineyard

84

25

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Wildewood

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Wildewood 2013 Guadalupe Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)

US

Tough, dry and tannic, this Cabernet punches its way through the mouth like an angry kickboxer. Deep down inside beats a heart of blackberries and black currants, impressively ripe and delicious. Will it age? Probably. Try after 2013, and could go for the long haul.

null

89

55

California

Oak Knoll District

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

In Re

null

France

Packed with great Sauvignon Blanc herbal flavors, this is a delicious wine, at the cool end of the spectrum of white wine. Grapefruit and lemon juice are enlivened by a grassy texture and crisp, fresh acidity.

La Grande Cuvée

88

12

Bordeaux

Bordeaux Blanc

null

Bordeaux-style White Blend

Dourthe

null

US

Tastes over-oaked and under-fruity, with green, stalky flavors along with Lifesaver candy pineapples and lemons. Gets the Chardonnay job done, just barely.

null

82

7

California

Monterey County

Central Coast

Chardonnay

Hilltown

null

US

Quite aromatic on first pour, this wine shows green peppercorn, violets, earth, smoked meat and savory aromas. The fruit and savory flavors are generous, showing length and depth.

La Paciencia Vineyard

93

75

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Syrah

No Girls

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

No Girls 2013 La Paciencia Vineyard Syrah (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

US

Tart acidity provides freshness and succulence to the palate of this vineyard-designate—a well-resolved expression of plum, cranberry and red currant. Plush and soft, it does the variety justice, making the case for complexity and approachability in one glass.

Stout Vineyard

91

98

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Merlot

Duckhorn

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Duckhorn 2013 Stout Vineyard Merlot (Napa Valley)

New Zealand

One of NZ's first Sauvignon producers has turned out a commendable wine in 2009, offering classic grassy-herbal aromas and expressive pineapple and herb flavors. It's crisply focused and tight, just falling off a little on the finish. Drink now.

null

87

12

Marlborough

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Matua Valley

null

US

Clean, crisply defined green apple and pear fruit flavors anchor this high-acid Pinot Gris. A fine choice with cream-based sauces or seafood that needs something to cut through the flavor. More bottle age could round it out.

Tikka's Run

86

19

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Gris

Lemelson

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Lemelson 2010 Tikka's Run Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley)

Australia

Aromas of very ripe and sweet fruit announce this rich, orange- and pineapple-dominated wine. Full on the palate, with the bright fruit singing. A nice dose of oak appears on the back end. Very nice, in a straightforward style. Best Buy.

null

87

10

South Australia

Barossa Valley

null

Chardonnay

Barossa Valley Estate

null

Italy

Campogiovanni is a rich, inky expression of Sangiovese Grosso with beautiful personality and length. The mouthfeel is still young and raw but the aromas already show deep evolution and harmony. You'll recognize tones of red cherry, root beer, mesquite and Indian spice.

Campogiovanni

92

50

Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino

null

Sangiovese Grosso

San Felice

null

Italy

This Taurasi Riserva shows the beautiful and austere side of Aglianico, with penetrating notes of dried fruit, wet river stone, cigar box and crushed clove. It delivers structure and enough persistence to pair with stewed lamb and potatoes, and it can also be cellared for 10 years or more.

Riserva

92

60

Southern Italy

Taurasi

null

Aglianico

Donnachiara

null

US

This Cabernet shows its Spring Mountain terroir in the big-time tannins and concentration of black currant fruit. It's almost a wine-reduction sauce, but there's a loss of weight on the midpalate that suggests this isn't a wine to cellar, but to enjoy now.

Premium Limited Edition

87

25

California

Napa

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Publix

null

France

This fruity wine is light with apple flavors and a touch of honey. Its acidity and floral character bring out a crisp texture, and its ripe fruitiness is refreshingly attractive. Drink now.

null

87

20

France Other

Corse Porto Vecchio

null

Vermentino

Domaine Torraccia

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Domaine Torraccia 2016 Vermentino (Corse Porto Vecchio)

France

Already impressive, this wine shows great fruit for the vintage as well as structure. Ripe with black cherries and berries, it has all of Pinot Noir's rich juiciness, but hints of smoke add complexity as well. Structured and a shade dark, it needs time to mature. Drink from 2017.

null

94

225

Burgundy

Echézeaux

null

Pinot Noir

Jean-Claude Boisset

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Jean-Claude Boisset 2011 Echézeaux

US

The oak influence (20% American, 80% French) predominates on this 100% varietal wine with notes of mocha and spice. The fruit flavors are lighter in style, with a grainy feel to the tannins. Coffee flavors linger on the finish.

null

88

15

Washington

Wahluke Slope

Columbia Valley

Merlot

Seven Falls

null

Argentina

Intense black-fruit aromas mix seamlessly with notes of graphite, cedar and dried Gouda cheese. This Bordeaux blend is firm and bolstered by grabby tannins and fresh acidity. Ripe flavors of blackberry, cassis, mocha and vanilla end with a lemony oak note, additional mocha and a hint of wood spice. Drink through 2022.

Synthesis The Blend

93

53

Mendoza Province

Tupungato

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Finca Sophenia

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Finca Sophenia 2012 Synthesis The Blend Red (Tupungato)

US

Initially a bit funky, this wine opened up to offer pretty cassis and fresh blackberry fruit couched in a bed of medium acid and soft tannins. Mushroom and plum tones on the finish hang around for just a bit. Drink up.

null

83

25

Colorado

Grand Valley

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Canyon Wind

null

Canyon Wind 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Grand Valley)

France

This is an apple-fresh sparkling wine with a lively mousse. It crisp, refreshing and clean, with attractive fruitiness.

Brut Méthode Ancestrale

87

19

Southwest France

Gaillac

null

Mauzac

Domaine du Moulin

null

US

This is rich in pineapple, mango, honey and smoky vanilla flavors, with a creamy richness and bracing acidity.

Sonoma Signature

86

20

California

Sonoma Coast

Sonoma

Chardonnay

Don & Sons

null

US

The most reserved of this winery's Grenache studies, this bottling shows baked red cherry, red currant, cola and slate on the nose. An iron-based minerality shows on the earthy palate, which also offers chipped slate, cranberry and tart cherry elements. It's a tad light but still intriguingly textured.

Larner

90

42

California

Ballard Canyon

Central Coast

Grenache

Casa Dumetz

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Casa Dumetz 2014 Larner Grenache (Ballard Canyon)

US

Two of the crispest and most savory white varieties in California are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio, and this blend of both shows the best qualities of each. It's just slightly off-dry and vibrant in citrus, fig, melon and vanilla flavors, with beautiful acidity.

Blanc Gris

87

18

California

California Other

White Blend

Vision Cellars

null

Vision Cellars 2006 Blanc Gris White (California)

Italy

Dark and savory, this has masculine aromas of cured meat, leather and tobacco. It shows huge density and richness on the palate, with ripe prune, blackberry and currant notes. This Carignano would pair with barbecued pork.

Mantènghja

92

87

Sicily & Sardinia

Isola dei Nuraghi

null

Carignano

Capichera

null

Capichera 2007 Mantènghja Carignano (Isola dei Nuraghi)

US

Much as I love the winery's La Paulée, this tops it. There's more concentration and complex blueberry, mulberry, black cherry and plum flavors. It shows a whiff or two of mint, sage and chervil, and as with all Scott Paul wines it is impeccably balanced, non-interventionist and studiously clean.

Audrey

91

50

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Scott Paul

null

US

A lovely Pinot Noir, dry and silky, giving lots of pleasure in the mouth. Shows polished cherry, raspberry and spice flavors. From Cargasacchi.

Salsipuedes

89

20

California

Santa Barbara County

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Point Concepción

null

Point Concepción 2009 Salsipuedes Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County)

France

While this wine is herbaceous, the attractive aspect lies in its lemon and orange zest flavors that are full and bright. It's crisp while deliciously fruity, ready to drink.

Le Roi des Pierres

85

30

Loire Valley

Sancerre

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Jean Maréchal

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Jean Maréchal 2013 Le Roi des Pierres (Sancerre)

US

Dark, soft, full-bodied and slightly sweet, this Pinot clearly shows its warm-climate origins. It tastes of jammy blackberries, cherries and raspberries.

Russell Family Vineyard

86

50

California

Paso Robles

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Loring Wine Company

null

Loring Wine Company 2006 Russell Family Vineyard Pinot Noir (Paso Robles)

US

A beautiful Cabernet that shows the promise of this Lake County appellation. Coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. It's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.

Obsidian Ridge Vineyard

90

28

California

Red Hills Lake County

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Obsidian Ridge

null

Obsidian Ridge 2007 Obsidian Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Red Hills Lake County)

France

A ripe, new-wood-dominated wine, this is smooth and polished in feel, while the powerful tannins of rich Malbec are preserved. It's dense, dark and concentrated, and the plum and blackberry fruits are layered with the dry, firm tannins and are lightened by the juicy acidity. This needs at least 6–7 years to show its best.

GC

94

130

Southwest France

Cahors

null

Malbec

Château du Cèdre

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château du Cèdre 2009 GC Malbec (Cahors)

Italy

Enticing aromas of pear, white flower, exotic fruit and a whiff of Mediterranean herb lift out of the glass. On the bright palate, a light mineral vein underscores green apple, pineapple and banana while fresh acidity adds zest.

S

87

22

Southern Italy

Campania

null

Falanghina

Di Meo

null

France

This 95% Syrah wine (with 5% Grenache) is thick and hearty with a strong black fruit core augmented by nuances of flinty minerality, dark chocolate, tobacco and leather. Chewy and firm in the mouth with assertive tannins that linger through the finish. It could use some time to integrate and mellow; try after 2012.

Apogée

88

25

Languedoc-Roussillon

Saint-Chinian

null

Syrah

Les Vignobles Foncalieu

null

US

Renwood's tiny two-barrel production of its most expensive Zinfandel has aromas like vanilla and coconut and flavors as rich as milk chocolate and strawberry jam. This full-bodied wine is practically a liquid dessert, though it's not overly sweet. It's full-bodied, smooth and broad in texture.

Grand Wren

90

100

California

Amador County

Sierra Foothills

Zinfandel

Renwood

null

US

Lemberger is a grapy red, with broad and simple fruit flavors, often with a rustic, tannic finish. Here it's been done in a lighter style, with a dried leaf note and lightly dusty tannins.

null

86

16

Washington

Rattlesnake Hills

Columbia Valley

Lemberger

Two Mountain

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Two Mountain 2010 Lemberger (Rattlesnake Hills)

US

Very ripe, almost jammy in apricots, pineapples and pears, this Chard seems sweet, like sugared or honeyed pie-filling. The finish is a bit cloying.

null

82

16

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Chardonnay

Mia's Playground

null

Italy

Fresh and full-bodied, this offers aromas of black-skinned fruit, underbrush and dark cooking spice. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, plum jam and black pepper alongside polished tannins and fresh acidity.

Lurei

88

24

Piedmont

Barbera d'Asti Superiore

null

Barbera

Il Falchetto

null

US

A very nice Cabernet that's superdrinkable because of its soft, appealing fruit, but also has plenty of complexity. Cherries, blackberries, blueberries and dark chocolate are enriched with spicy oak notes, leading to a long, balanced finish.

null

89

26

California

Sonoma Valley

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

Schug

null

Schug 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma Valley)

US

Fermentation was done in a mix of stainless steel and French oak, yielding a soft, accessible, lightly spiced wine. Flavors mix notes of fresh cut grass and celery with melony fruit.

Estate Grown

87

14

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

Preston

null

US

A fine Sauvignon Blanc and, at this price, a good value, especially for sommeliers, who can recommend it with a wide array of foods. Slightly sweet in the finish, it's crisp in acids, with pineapple, spearmint, lemongrass and vanilla flavors.

Fumé Blanc

86

15

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Sauvignon Blanc

Dry Creek Vineyard

null

Dry Creek Vineyard 2007 Fumé Blanc Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma County)

US

Stainless-steel fermentation yields a tangy, ripe, tart, tongue-tickling Gewurztraminer with exceptional minerality. The echoing varietal flavors of flower and rosewater add interest to the finish. Still a bit yeasty, but should improve with a little more bottle age.

Temperance Hill Vineyard

87

19

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Gewürztraminer

Lumos

null

US

Delicious and succulent, a gigantic Zinfandel. Impresses for the powerful ripeness of the blackberry, plum and cherry fruit, accented with waves of smoky wood, cocoa and Asian spices. The tannins are rich and strong. Will age for a long time, gradually losing density and becoming softer and sweeter.

null

90

27

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Zinfandel

Titus

null

Titus 2007 Zinfandel (Napa Valley)

New Zealand

Smoky aromas of hickory-laced dark fruit lead the way, easily sliding into boysenberry and bacon notes on the palate. The flavors are meaty and savory, not simply fruity, while the texture is lush. One of the best examples of Peg Bay Pinot Noir in memory, it finishes long, framed by supple tannins. Drink now–2020.

null

91

40

Waipara Valley

null

Pinot Noir

Pegasus Bay

null

Italy

Petruccino is a delightful and elegant wine with great red fruit intensity folded within leather, spice and tobacco. The blend is Sangiovese (60%), Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and the wine offers crispness, softness and structure, respectively, thanks to these three varieties.

Petruccino

91

null

Tuscany

Orcia

null

Red Blend

Podere Forte

null

Podere Forte 2007 Petruccino Red (Orcia)

France

This lively, crisply acidic wine hints at toast, but goes much more for a delicious citrus character. There's a great freshness to the wine, showing some pear flavors and a fine edge of apple skins.

Les Morats

87

22

Burgundy

Saint-Véran

null

Chardonnay

Château de Fuissé

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château de Fuissé 2006 Les Morats (Saint-Véran)

US

Shows a welcome return to form after the '06. This time, the butterscotchy oak plays a supporting role, allowing the pineapple, pear, guava and mineral flavors to shine. Beautiful and elegant.

S Block

93

36

California

Carneros

Napa-Sonoma

Chardonnay

Cuvaison

null

US

A dry, crisp Pinot Noir with interestingly ripe flavors of cherries, oranges and cola. Maybe a little overpriced for what you get, but it's a pretty wine.

null

86

34

California

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Williams Selyem

null

Williams Selyem 2008 Pinot Noir (Central Coast)

France

This biodynamic estate produces some very fine wines, expressive of their soil types. This still-young wine from volcanic rock is ripe while also intensely structured. It has the potential for great fruitiness while keeping this structure. Drink from 2018.

Orthogneiss Sur Lie

92

24

Loire Valley

Muscadet Sèvre et Maine

null

Melon

Domaine de l'Ecu

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Domaine de l'Ecu 2016 Orthogneiss Sur Lie (Muscadet Sèvre et Maine)

US

Soft and slightly one-dimensional, this bears blackberry and cherry jam flavors enriched with smoky oak. There's a funky, Syrah-like bacon note, too. It's not likely to improve with age, so drink up.

Dr. Konrad's Vineyard

85

59

California

Mount Veeder

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Fields Family

null

Fields Family 2009 Dr. Konrad's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Mount Veeder)

Austria

This is a full-bodied wine with a citrus streak of acidity to go with peach and apricot flavors. It is rich, just hinting at minerality, generous in mouthfeel.

Vom Gelben Löss

90

21

Wagram-Donauland

null

Riesling

Josef Ehmoser

null

Portugal

Earthy, youthful aromas lead to a wine that's ripe while still finding its fruity character. The potential for the citrus and apricot flavors is there and should develop by mid-2015.

Oscar's Branco

84

12

Douro

null

Portuguese White

Quevedo

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Quevedo 2013 Oscar's Branco White (Douro)

US

Dark, concentrated and practically dripping with ripe berry flavors, this wine shows the benefit of extra aging. It is unusually focused and delicious. Hints of cocoa and coffee join the dark blueberry and blackberry-syrup flavors, with very little evidence of oak.

Estate

92

28

California

Livermore Valley

Central Coast

Syrah

Fenestra

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Fenestra 2011 Estate Syrah (Livermore Valley)

US

A robust, spicy Zinfandel made for drinking now. It's dry and full-bodied, with blackberry, black currant, oatmeal raisin cookie and pepper flavors.

null

85

17

California

Lake County

Mendocino/Lake Counties

Zinfandel

Angel's Secret

null

US

Generously filling and satisfying, this Bordeaux-styled blend is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It's medium in oak and tannin, with a toasty character underlying red cherry, currant and cassis, the ending marked by cedar and clove.

Proprietary

88

49

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Hensteeth

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Hensteeth 2009 Proprietary Red (Sonoma County)

France

From a 15-acre vineyard owned by Georges Duboeuf. It is a big, bold, ripe wine backed by light wood flavors, and juicy red plum fruits. It is vivid, colorful and solid.

Château des Capitans

90

null

Beaujolais

Juliénas

null

Gamay

Georges Duboeuf

null

Italy

Aromas of mature plum, dark berry and violet lead the way. On the straightforward palate, hints of toast and espresso add a bit of depth to the dried cherry core. Dusty but fleeting tannins lead to a slightly raspy finish.

Piegaia Riserva

87

25

Tuscany

Chianti Classico

null

Sangiovese

Villa Calcinaia

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Villa Calcinaia 2012 Piegaia Riserva (Chianti Classico)

US

Intensely herbaceous with a woody characteristic and touch of green olive, this estate-grown wine offers tight-grained tannins and a lift of acidity around deeper notes of cassis and chocolate. From a vineyard in St. Helena, it shows the relative coolness of the vintage.

Estate

90

48

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Franc

Casa Nuestra

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Casa Nuestra 2011 Estate Cabernet Franc (Napa Valley)

US

If you think you don't like Merlot, try this one. It shows classic Napa Valley structure, with smooth, firm tannins and seductive flavors of sweet cherries, plums and currants. Delicious now with a good steak.

Estate

91

32

California

Rutherford

Napa

Merlot

Rutherford Grove

null

Rutherford Grove 2008 Estate Merlot (Rutherford)

US

A blend of the big three Cabernet valleys, Alexander, Sonoma and Dry Creek. Polished and elegant, with good berry flavors balanced with green olive, dill, unsweetened chocolate and earth. Feels plush in the mouth, smooth and soft, but complex. Good enough for your best fare.

null

90

16

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

St. Francis

null

Italy

Crushed black cherry, leather, tobacco, anise, underbrush and grilled herb are just some of the aromas and flavors offered by this concentrated, vibrant wine. Firm acidity and chewy tannins provide the structure, while a licorice note marks the lingering finish.

Vigneto di Campolungo Gran Selezione

94

40

Tuscany

Chianti Classico

null

Red Blend

Lamole di Lamole

null

US

Definitely on the sweet side, this has jellied raspberry and vanilla bean flavors. Crisp acidity provides fortunate balance.

No. 8 Pinot Noir

85

25

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Rosé

JCB

null

New Zealand

A fruit-driven style, showing plenty of black cherries, accented by cola, herb and spice notes. The palate is pleasantly smooth and satiny in texture before turning tart on the finish. Drink now-2010.

null

87

20

Marlborough

null

Pinot Noir

The Crossings

null

France

From one of the many cru estates that are run by Beaujolais merchant Georges Duboeuf, this wine is smooth, generous and juicy. It has red-cherry fruit that is surrounded by some firm tannins as well as juicy acidity. Drink from late 2017.

Domaine de Javernière

88

20

Beaujolais

Morgon

null

Gamay

Georges Duboeuf

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Georges Duboeuf 2015 Domaine de Javernière (Morgon)

US

And now for something completely different, this wine explodes in whole-cluster, carbonic freshness and surprise. It's a light cerebral take on the variety that delights at every turn. Stainless-steel fermented and aged, it's loaded in raspberry and cherry-jam flavors and dipped in black licorice. It's fresh, fruity and entirely memorable.

Springloaded Monkey Paw Luc's Vineyard

94

41

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Tempranillo

Sheldon

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Sheldon 2016 Springloaded Monkey Paw Luc's Vineyard Tempranillo (Sonoma County)

US

I like the elegance, but it seems like it was rushed to market. It will certainly benefit from cellaring, as it's young and rude in acids right now, and not showing well. But there's something here in the vast heart of cherries and pomegranates and overall balance. Should improve by the end of 2007, and hold for another five years.

Keefer Ranch Vineyard

91

53

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Pinot Noir

Siduri

null

Austria

Freshly cut pear, some peardrop candy and a wonderfully zippy lemon freshness combine on a light, slender body into a very refreshing, even exciting palate that also has very slight echoes of yellow miso and fresh lovage. There is focus and precision—but this may need a little bottle age before unfolding completely. Drink 2017–2022.

Urgestein Terrassen Smaragd

93

null

Wachau

null

Grüner Veltliner

F X Pichler

Anne Krebiehl MW

@AnneInVino

F X Pichler 2015 Urgestein Terrassen Smaragd Grüner Veltliner (Wachau)

US

If more Syrah tasted like this, the variety just might overtake Cabernet in popularity. It's really good, combining a dry, firm structure with lush flavors, in the way of blackberries, blueberries, currants and a meatiness like the sweet, charred fat on a steak. Kudos to vintner Murray for bottling it in a screwtop.

Watch Hill Vineyard

93

36

California

Central Coast

Syrah

Andrew Murray

null

Andrew Murray 2009 Watch Hill Vineyard Syrah (Central Coast)

Italy

Here's a vibrant and etched Brunello riserva that opens with a dark, inky color and pretty aromas of dark fruit and plum followed by tobacco and spice. The wine leaves a large and long-lasting impression in the mouth with bright acidity and delicate nuances of crushed stone and white pepper on the close. Drink after 2018.

Riserva

94

95

Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino

null

Sangiovese Grosso

Podere Brizio

null

Podere Brizio 2007 Riserva (Brunello di Montalcino)

Italy

This Riserva Pinot Bianco boasts inviting aromas of almond nut, stone fruit, honey and roasted chestnuts. The wine is full and round with thick density and a blast of mature fruit on the close. Pair it with duck or pork-based dishes.

Vorberg Riserva

90

28

Northeastern Italy

Alto Adige

null

Pinot Bianco

Cantina Terlano

null

Cantina Terlano 2005 Vorberg Riserva Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige)

US

What a nice wine for drinking now and over the next few years. At the age of nearly four, it's mellow and rich, with the blackberry fruit and oak flavors achieving a savory marriage. Finishes dry, spicy and tart.

null

88

30

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Billhook

null

Billhook 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Italy

Subdued aromas of ripe dark berry, violet, spice and a whiff of Alpine herb come together on this. The lively, straightforward palate offers up black raspberry, blackberry and nutmeg alongside velvety tannins. Drink soon.

null

88

20

Northeastern Italy

Alto Adige

null

Lagrein

Girlan

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Girlan 2013 Lagrein (Alto Adige)

France

Attractive fresh raspberry fruit and a touch of acidity mark this bright clean wine.

Bourgogne Côtes d'Auxerre Rosé

85

15

Burgundy

Bourgogne

null

Pinot Noir

Simonnet-Febvre

null

Germany

One of the few examples of wine made from roter, or red, Riesling, this slightly salmon-hued bottling showcases the variety's characteristically berried perfume. It's taut with acidity yet satisfyingly full in body, offering generous layers of sour-plum, berry and red-apple flavors. The finish is tinged by a lingering hint of caramel.

Roter

90

46

Rheingau

null

Riesling

Baron Knyphausen

Anna Lee C. Iijima

null

Baron Knyphausen 2015 Roter Riesling (Rheingau)

Australia

This vintage of Cigale's GSM showcases more Grenache (63%) than in the past, which perhaps accounts for its slightly one-dimensional cherry fruitiness. Very supple, verging on syrupy in texture, it also shows a bit of warmth on the finish. Drink now–2012.

Grenache-Mourvèdre-Shiraz

86

19

South Australia

Barossa Valley

null

G-S-M

Cigale

null

US

This is a straightforward easy-drinker with aromas of cantaloupe and kiwi leading to off-dry, lightly styled fruit flavors.

null

85

11

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

Songbird

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Songbird 2014 Sauvignon Blanc (Columbia Valley (WA))

US

This garagiste-sized project presents a complex take in this 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah project, with tight boysenberry, slight asphalt, pressed violets and black pepper on the nose. There is a pronounced density of black fruit on the palate, with blueberry dominant, as well as gingerbread warmth, roasted pork, hoisin sauce and a strong tannic grip.

First Born King

92

34

California

Paso Robles

Central Coast

Grenache-Syrah

Rendarrio Vineyards

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Rendarrio Vineyards 2012 First Born King Grenache-Syrah (Paso Robles)

US

A first-rate wine, with well-ripened flavors of blackberries, espresso, cola, tea, and bitter chocolate, but made more interesting by fresh acidity not often seen in today's better Merlots. This cool-climate wine also has sturdy tannins that suggest mid-term aging.

Windacre Vineyard

88

34

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Merlot

Merriam

null

Merriam 2000 Windacre Vineyard Merlot (Russian River Valley)

US

Good blackberry, currant and cedar flavors, and properly dry, with a good background of smoky oak. But it's way too soft, causing structural collapse.

null

83

40

California

California Other

Meritage

Malibu

null

US

Appeals to the popular palate with white sugar, apricot, orange, pineapple and oak flavors. The apparent sweetness suggests pairing with cured meats. A weekend brunch with a ham omelet will be fine.

null

86

29

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Chardonnay

The Federalist

null

The Federalist 2011 Chardonnay (Russian River Valley)

France

A beautifully ripe wine, layered with the richest fruit, the acidity offering a bright moment within the richness. Botrytis is there, like a hard core for the pillow of ripe apricots, lychees, spice and fine freshness.

null

95

null

Bordeaux

Sauternes

null

Bordeaux-style White Blend

Château Clos Haut-Peyraguey

null

US

A vivid, refreshing blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Pinot Gris seems to bring out the best of both. Viognier's floral, orange and peach scents and flavors are supported by hints of honeysuckle and pear from the Pinot Gris. There is a little spritz to liven up the mouthfeel.

PGV White Wine

90

16

Washington

Washington Other

White Blend

Thurston Wolfe

null

Italy

This is a ripe and thickly extracted wine with sweet aromas of cherry liqueur, moist tobacco, cured meat and exotic spice. It's big and bold on all levels and needs to be paired with an equally succulent food like grilled steak. You'll get chocolate, espresso and mesquite over the wine's rich and velvety close.

null

94

112

Tuscany

Toscana

null

Syrah

Tua Rita

null

US

Well oaked, with a toasty, vanilla-infused cream and caramel edge, this polished Chard has peach custard flavors dusted with cinnamon, nutmeg and candied ginger. It's delicious and complex. The word “rich” doesn't begin to do it justice.

Pugash Vineyard

92

45

California

Sonoma Mountain

Sonoma

Chardonnay

Mi Sueño

null

Germany

The restrained nose shows some white peach notes, lees and stony minerality. This is complex, layered and persistent across the palate, opening up to ample stone fruit flavors, earthy notes, dried herbs and spice. Crisp, with sweetness, moderately concentrated flavors and a rich texture all in balance, if a little loose knit on the finish.

Trittenheimer Apotheke Spätlese

89

31

Mosel

null

Riesling

Clusserath-Weiler

null

France

Made in a fruit-driven style with an undercurrent of stony minerality, this medium-bodied blend of Grenache Blanc and Roussanne hints at pear and citrus. Drink now.

Réserve

87

12

Rhône Valley

Costières de Nîmes

null

Rhône-style White Blend

Château de Nages

null

Australia

From winemaker Chris Ringland and viticulturalist Russell Johnstone; Ringland is the winemaker of the Rockford and Chris Ringland (née Three Rivers) wines. The Rockford wines cost about $40. The Chris Ringland wines? $400, if you're lucky. In any case, this Grenache is a bargain. It tastes like a well-done Rhône red, medium-slender in the mouth, with cherry/black cherry flavors and minimal wood. Aromas are of earth and cola, and the finish is clean.

Vox Populi

87

10

South Australia

Barossa Valley

null

Grenache

RBJ

null

US

The pedigree of this Syrah is top-notch. The vineyard was planted by one of the owners of the fine Cabernet house, Surh Luchtel, and one of the winery's co-owners works at the von Strasser winery. The wine itself shows promise, but is a little too ripe and sweet for comfort, with jammy, stewed blackberry, cherry and cola flavors that have been well-oaked.

Fortunati Vineyard

86

30

California

Oak Knoll District

Napa

Syrah

Schulz

null

US

Thick and peachy, with the weight of Roussanne (19%) married to the elegance of the Viognier (81%), this barrel-fermented, oak-aged wine displays intense fruit flavors of apricot, white peach and citrus. Round and fleshy, it retains sufficient acid to prevent a flabby impression. A nice kiss of vanilla sends it on its way.

null

90

25

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Viognier

Bergevin Lane

null

US

A good Cab, dry and balanced, whose tannins are richly impressive and sweet. Shows a good tension between the oak and the ripe black currants. Easy to like, and should develop for a few years.

null

90

35

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wild Oak by St. Francis

null

Wild Oak by St. Francis 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma County)

South Africa

The 2009 Gypsy, unlike the 2008, includes no Mourvèdre in the blend, meaning it's just Grenache and Syrah, at about half each. This is a powerful and intense wine, with forward aromas and flavors of cherry, black plum and boysenberry that are spiced with notes of crushed purple florals, black pepper and licorice. With medium-plus tannins, bold flavors, a firm texture and a long finish, this is one that is both drinking well now and should also age nicely through 2016.

The Gypsy

92

65

Stellenbosch

null

Grenache-Syrah

Ken Forrester

Lauren Buzzeo

@laurbuzz

Ken Forrester 2009 The Gypsy Grenache-Syrah (Stellenbosch)

US

This is a Bordeaux blend based on Cabernet Sauvignon, with a drop of Petite Sirah for color and tannins. It's rich and deep in blackberry, currant and dark chocolate flavors, and balanced with big-time tannins and a fine cut of acidity. Doesn't seem like an ager despite the astringency, so drink it soon with rich meats and cheeses.

Bay's Blend

91

38

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Red Blend

Reid Family Vineyards

null

US

A vineyard change in 2008 moves the source of the grapes north from Red Mountain to the Royal Slope. Young vines yield rather tight, bare flavors, with sweet grain and vanilla components contributed by the oak barrel (just one barrel was produced).

Stillwater Creek Vineyard

86

30

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Mourvèdre

:Nota Bene

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

:Nota Bene 2008 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Mourvèdre (Columbia Valley (WA))

Germany

At $12 for a single-vineyard kabinett, this is an excellent value, delivering exotic honey, apricot and spice notes. The texture is creamy and silky; the finish is lush and soft. Drink it over the next few years.

Erdener Treppchen Kabinett

89

12

Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

null

Riesling

Gräflich von Hohenthal'Scher

null

Germany

The nose lacks punch, offering only faint notes of melon and white flowers while the crisp, fairly dry palate sails by on fleeting notes of white raspberry and pomelo. Not one for aging.

Trocken

82

null

Rheinhessen

null

Riesling

Weingut Liebfrauenstift

null

US

This tastes barely ripe, and the 12.5% alcohol listing—quite low for this variety—seems to confirm the impression. It's high in acid, with thin, sharp tannins, and without the balancing heft and sweetness to the fruit. That said, it would be perfectly compatible with a grilled steak, much like a simple Bordeaux.

null

84

26

Oregon

Southern Oregon

Cabernet Franc

Cliff Creek

null

Italy

A blend of 50% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc, this offers aromas of ripe black currant, tilled earth and tobacco. The full-bodied palate doles out black cherry, cedar and mocha alongside ample velvety tannins. Drink 2017–2023.

null

91

90

Tuscany

Toscana

null

Red Blend

Orma

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Orma 2013 Red (Toscana)

US

A huge Zinfandel, with ultraripe, powerful berry, cocoa, bacon and spice flavors. That tremendous power comes at the cost of exceptionally high alcohol, which gives the wine a chili pepper burn. Forewarned is forearmed.

Montecillo Vineyard Kaarin's Terrace

88

40

California

Sonoma Valley

Sonoma

Zinfandel

St. Francis

null

St. Francis 2009 Montecillo Vineyard Kaarin's Terrace Zinfandel (Sonoma Valley)

US

Sharp and tannic, this wine hides its thin fruit behind gluey flavors of tobacco and licorice.

Grand Reserve

81

30

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Silver Lake

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Silver Lake 2003 Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA))

US

This has notes of black cherry and smoky tar. It's tannins can barely be wrapped around one's lips on first sip, but let the wine open (and/or age) and its black cherry, berry, coffee and mint components swirl together in exciting ways.

Estate

88

28

California

Amador County

Sierra Foothills

Zinfandel

Andis

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Andis 2010 Estate Zinfandel (Amador County)