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135
Chile
Earthy aromas include pencil eraser, wild herbs and eucalyptus along with tea and blackberry. This is very smooth and lush in the mouth, a reflection of a warm vintage. Flavors of olive, herbs, tobacco and black fruits are textbook for the variety, while a mellow, polished finish is silky and easygoing. Drink through 2016.
Edición Limitada
90
23
Maipo Valley
null
null
Carmenère
Morandé
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
Morandé 2009 Edición Limitada Carmenère (Maipo Valley)
US
Dusty minerals tones, dried mushrooms and luscious black cherries collide on the nose and palate of this unusual New York Sangiovese. It's a bold, full-bodied and forward wine, but brisk acidity and fine-grained tannins lend elegance and style.
null
88
35
New York
Seneca Lake
Finger Lakes
Sangiovese
Ventosa
Anna Lee C. Iijima
null
Ventosa 2011 Sangiovese (Seneca Lake)
US
Ripe red cherries with hints of fresh green herbs and menthol perfume both the nose and palate of this elegant, medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. On the palate, intense fruit flavors gain complexity with sprinklings of olives, cedar and sturdy tannins that lead to a long, sour cherry finish.
null
86
15
New York
Finger Lakes
Finger Lakes
Cabernet Sauvignon
Fox Run
null
null
null
US
A lovely young Cab, rich and balanced, and with the elegance you expect from this producer. Made from all 5 Bordeaux varieties, with a drop of Syrah, the wine is potent in red and black currant, blackberry and new oak flavors, with sweetly ripe tannins. Delicious now, it should develop through 2015.
null
91
28
California
Napa Valley
Napa
Cabernet Sauvignon
Robert Mondavi
null
null
null
US
High-toned apple cider notes dominate the nose on this concentrated blend of Riesling, Vidal Blanc and Chardonnay from Virginia's Veramar. Full bodied but dry with a rich viscosity and a brisk, lemony acidity, it's straightforward, but enjoyable for a casual night's fare.
Tres Blanc
85
20
Virginia
Virginia
null
White Blend
Veramar
Anna Lee C. Iijima
null
Veramar NV Tres Blanc White (Virginia)
US
Lots of ripe blackberry and cherry fruit in this Cabernet, accented with notes of licorice and oak. It's a good wine, full-bodied, tannic and dry. Very good now, especially after a brief decant, but too dependent on fruit for a higher score, and doesn't seem like an ager.
Terraced Hillside Estate
88
45
California
Napa Valley
Napa
Cabernet Sauvignon
Amizetta
null
null
null
Spain
Sharp, medicinal and a little skunky to start with, and it remains acidic, tangy and hard in the mouth, with cranberry and cough medicine for flavors. Herbal and cutting on the finish. Not much to write home about.
6 Meses en Barrica
82
15
Northern Spain
Ribera del Duero
null
Tempranillo
Emina
null
null
null
US
An interesting wine here: some decent blackberry and cassis aromas and flavors and a strong note of anise or licorice. It's not unpleasant, but it is atypical. Once you get past that, it's pretty good. Some high-toned tannins that suggest mid-term ageability.
Private Reserve
86
20
California
Monterey County
Central Coast
Merlot
Château Julien
null
null
null
Italy
Buio is a fresh expression of Carignano with nice fruit tones, a bright ruby color and easy flavors of cherry and forest berry. It's an informal but food-friendly wine with good acidity and genuine character.
Buio
87
28
Sicily & Sardinia
Carignano del Sulcis
null
Carignano
Mesa
null
null
null
US
Even at the age of nearly five years, this Bordeaux blend remains astringently tough in tannins and dry, with a rasping finish. Doesn't seem likely to improve.
All In Claret
84
36
California
Alexander Valley
Sonoma
Bordeaux-style Red Blend
Murphy-Goode
null
null
null
US
Tastes riper than Peachy's other '04 Zins, with alcohol close to 16%, and some Petite Sirah in the blend. The wine is enormous in blackberry jam, cassis and blueberry pie flavors. Fabulous, exotic and just delicious, with gobs of chocolate.
Mustang Springs
92
30
California
Paso Robles
Central Coast
Zinfandel
Peachy Canyon
null
null
null
Austria
White currant, green pear and peppery arugula rule this crisp white. It bursts with very ripe sweet, juicy pears on the palate, making for savory sipping with lots of resonance, with or without food. Drink now.
Gelbling
91
15
Niederösterreich
null
null
Grüner Veltliner
Buchegger
Anne Krebiehl MW
@AnneInVino
Buchegger 2013 Gelbling Grüner Veltliner (Niederösterreich)
US
There's a decent wine here, crisp and ripe in pineapple flavor, but it's been buried under so much oak, it's practically invisible. The wine reeks of woodsap and charred barrels, dominated by a sweet vanilla taste.
Bacigalupi Vineyard
83
38
California
Russian River Valley
Sonoma
Chardonnay
Falcor
null
null
Falcor 2004 Bacigalupi Vineyard Chardonnay (Russian River Valley)
US
Simple and a little vegetal, but the blackberry, currant and oak flavors are sound.
Proprietor's Reserve
82
10
California
California
California Other
Cabernet Sauvignon
Glen Ellen
null
null
null
US
The aromas of lemon, soil and flowers are quite subdued. The flavors are restrained with impressive balance and the variety's often burly tannins well tamed.
Stratus
89
32
Washington
Yakima Valley
Columbia Valley
Petite Verdot
Cloudlift Cellars
Sean P. Sullivan
@wawinereport
Cloudlift Cellars 2013 Stratus Petite Verdot (Yakima Valley)
France
The wine's name comes from the Adour River that flows through the Madiran region. This is dark colored, powerful and spicy, with weight and richness that should allow this to age for at least four years.
Mon Adour
91
17
Southwest France
Madiran
null
Tannat
Lionel Osmin & Cie
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Lionel Osmin & Cie 2009 Mon Adour Tannat (Madiran)
France
Soft notes of sweet grass and garrigue herbs accent the fruity tones of small red berries, watermelon rinds and lime peels on the nose of this light, fresh wine. The palate is tart and bright, with ample acidity and a short finish.
Cuvée Montlaurès
84
20
Languedoc-Roussillon
Languedoc
null
Rosé
Domaine Sainte Croix
Lauren Buzzeo
@laurbuzz
Domaine Sainte Croix 2015 Cuvée Montlaurès Rosé (Languedoc)
Germany
Lithe and dainty in profile, this late-harvest Riesling seems to dance on the nose and palate, with sweet notes of fresh apple, grapefruit and blossoms. It's intensely mineral, with a streak of lemony acidity, but concentrated with a long, honey-tinged finish.
Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland Spätlese
89
42
Rheingau
null
null
Riesling
Johannishof
Anna Lee C. Iijima
null
Johannishof 2012 Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland Spätlese Riesling (Rheingau)
US
A tough, leathery wine, very dry and pretty tannic, with pleasant berry, cherry, currant and spice flavors. It's mainly Syrah, with 14% Cabernet Franc, and shows mouthwateringly crisp acidity.
null
86
18
California
Sonoma Coast
Sonoma
Red Blend
Rumpus
null
null
null
US
A gorgeous sparkling wine, dry and elegant. Made from 71% Pinot Noir and the balance Chardonnay, it's a classic California sparkler, with wonderfully rich suggestions of citrus, raspberry, apple and brioche. With an incredibly fine mousse, it's notable for balance and integrity.
Brut
94
70
California
Anderson Valley
Mendocino/Lake Counties
Sparkling Blend
Schramsberg
null
null
null
France
A tangy, zesty wine with a strongly mineral texture, this is fruity and fresh. It's full of green plum, herbal and gooseberry flavors. With its texture and structure, it needs to age, so drink from 2017.
null
87
26
Loire Valley
Sancerre
null
Sauvignon Blanc
Philippe Girard
null
null
null
South Africa
Vegetal notes of asparagus mingle with accents of chalk and sweet grass on the nose, while ruby grapefruit and underripe mango flavors burst in the mouth. Vibrant and clean; drink now.
null
87
null
Western Cape
null
null
Sauvignon Blanc
Plaisir De Merle
Lauren Buzzeo
@laurbuzz
Plaisir De Merle 2010 Sauvignon Blanc (Western Cape)
US
High alcohol makes this Grenache seem hot and sweet in glycerine. It tastes candied, with cherry pie and red licorice flavors.
Estate Vineyard
84
25
California
Sonoma Valley
Sonoma
Grenache
Wellington
null
null
Wellington 2009 Estate Vineyard Grenache (Sonoma Valley)
US
This tart and aromatic white blend could be labeled Chardonnay; less than a quarter is a mix of Riesling, Muscat, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris. It's detailed and lively, with bright citrus, pineapple, pink grapefruit and sweet spice.
House Wine
88
13
Washington
Columbia Valley (WA)
Columbia Valley
White Blend
Magnificent Wine Company
null
null
null
US
A mixture of blue fruit and herb aromas lead to fruit flavors that show restraint and polish. It's a very pretty representation of the vintage.
Foundation
91
35
Washington
Columbia Valley (WA)
Columbia Valley
Syrah
Structure
Sean P. Sullivan
@wawinereport
Structure 2014 Foundation Syrah (Columbia Valley (WA))
US
A dry, tannicly dessicated wine largely lacking in fruit. Tastes of alcohol and pepper, with just a sprinkle of blackberry juice.
Limited Reserve
81
40
California
Temecula Valley
South Coast
Syrah
Stuart Cellars
null
null
null
Spain
Gritty leather and cherry aromas pass quickly across the nose of this wine. It's chunky and meaty, with plum, berry and herbal flavors. A grippy, straightforward finish confirms it's well made but has limits.
null
86
19
Catalonia
Priorat
null
Red Blend
Tressals
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
Tressals 2014 Red (Priorat)
Canada
Spicy, floral and with a touch of minerality, this is poised and layered. It's dense and honeyed on the palate but overall, has a balanced, attractive character. Imported by Bayfield Importing, Ltd.
Icewine
85
50
Ontario
Niagara Peninsula
null
Riesling
Henry of Pelham
null
null
null
US
Made from mountain grapes, this is an extraordinarily rich, concentrated young Cabernet Sauvignon. It's marked by classic varietal flavors of blackberries, black currants, dark chocolate and cassis liqueur. A minor quibble is that it's too soft and melted for further development, but it scores high on the deliciousness scale.
Prevail Back Forty
92
85
California
Alexander Valley
Sonoma
Cabernet Sauvignon
Ferrari-Carano
null
null
null
Italy
Lacryma Christi is a rustic and savory red wine, with bright tones of dried currant, spice, tobacco and leather. It includes touches of cured meat and bresaola, and the finish is sour and fresh.
null
85
16
Southern Italy
Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio
null
Red Blend
Feudi di San Gregorio
null
null
Feudi di San Gregorio 2010 Red (Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio)
Portugal
Juicy Alicante Bouschet shines in this smooth, rich wine. Dark tannins are cushioned by the ripe berry fruits and opulent texture. Wood-aging has given extra richness to this powerful and complex wine that needs time. Drink from 2017.
Rapariga da Quinta Reserva
93
26
Alentejano
null
null
Portuguese Red
Luis Duarte
null
null
null
Italy
Lovely aromas of black cherries and plums bust from the glass, followed by hints of vanilla and cedar. This lush, richly textured wine never seems overly ripe or heavy, delivering ample fruit and cigarbox flavors. Finishes long, with hints of anise and tobacco. Balanced to drink or age; drink now-2015.
Vigneto Montesodi Castello di Nipozzano
93
45
Tuscany
Chianti Rufina
null
Sangiovese
Marchesi de' Frescobaldi
null
null
null
Italy
A northern Italian red that delivers earthy aromas as well as mineral and barrel notes. Cherry and raspberry flavors are light, while the mouthfeel is a touch raw and peppery. A different breed of rosso from Franciacorta.
Maurizio Zanella
86
87
Lombardy
Sebino
null
Red Blend
Ca' del Bosco
null
null
null
US
A distinctive wine that comes from a biodynamically farmed area of this vineyard, with 40% fermented in neutral oak and the rest in stainless steel. It's brightly aromatic with ripe peach, honeysuckle and a spritz of lime, smelling quite luscious but drinking dry with a broad feel to the lively fruit flavors.
null
88
25
Washington
Horse Heaven Hills
Columbia Valley
Riesling
Beast
Sean P. Sullivan
@wawinereport
Beast 2012 Riesling (Horse Heaven Hills)
Italy
This bold wine doles out vivid aromas of black fruit, earth, tobacco and spice. The palate offers layers of blackberry, cherry, currants and black pepper along with balsamic and mineral notes. It should develop more complexity over the next few years. Drink through 2018.
Fatica Contadina
90
31
Southern Italy
Taurasi
null
Aglianico
Terredora
Kerin O’Keefe
@kerinokeefe
Terredora 2008 Fatica Contadina (Taurasi)
Italy
Has subdued aromas of garden greens, herbs, white fruit, pear and wild flowers. This is a clean and crystalline sparkler with a refreshing, lime-driven finish. Imported by La Gioiosa USA.
Brut
87
12
Veneto
Prosecco di Valdobbiadene
null
Prosecco
Villa Sandi
null
null
null
France
The small appellation of Quincy, near Sancerre, produces soft, ripe Sauvignon Blanc. This has ripe acidity, with flavors of baked apple and pear and a fine citrus streak.
Cuvée des Victoires
87
19
Loire Valley
Quincy
null
Sauvignon Blanc
Domaine Philippe Portier
null
null
null
US
Stemmy and woody, this soft, bright and feral wine is revelatory of its site, where coolness reigns. The taste suggests the hulls of fresh strawberries, while the color, structure and body remain elusively light.
null
86
27
California
Sonoma Coast
Sonoma
Pinot Noir
The Forager
Virginie Boone
@vboone
The Forager 2013 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast)
Spain
This is a great wine, from a vintage that wasn't great. The nose is smooth and rich, with raspberry, plum, fine oak and all the spice that comes with it. The palate feels fresh and healthy, with racy blackberry fruit tempered by creamy chocolate, vanilla and spice. Like most high-end wines from the Eguren family, this is right on the money. Drink now through 2018.
La Nieta
93
159
Northern Spain
Rioja
null
Tempranillo
Viñedos de Paganos
null
null
null
US
A heavy, oaky Chardonnay whose tropical fruit and vanilla flavors are dull.
null
82
23
California
Santa Barbara County
Central Coast
Chardonnay
Frisby
null
null
Frisby 2009 Chardonnay (Santa Barbara County)
US
Buttered toast and caramel corn dominate this Chardonnay, which also features ripe pineapple and golden mango flavors. It's made in the popular style of ripe, oaky fruitiness.
Estate Bottled
85
19
California
Paso Robles
Central Coast
Chardonnay
Eberle
null
null
Eberle 2009 Estate Bottled Chardonnay (Paso Robles)
US
Accented with intriguing notes of charred oak, dried herbs, porcini mushrooms and a whisper of peppery grains of paradise, this is a rustic Merlot. The midpalate shows hints of underripe red fruit and raw green peppers, but it's a sturdy dry red that would hold up well with rustic braised meats on a cold winter's night.
Estate
85
19
New York
North Fork of Long Island
Long Island
Merlot
Raphael
Anna Lee C. Iijima
null
Raphael 2007 Estate Merlot (North Fork of Long Island)
Italy
Compact and traditional with a bright, streamlined style, this pretty Barolo represents a blend of Nebbiolo grapes from two very important vineyard crus (the very structured Brunate and the elegant Le Coste vineyards).
Brunate Le Coste
89
120
Piedmont
Barolo
null
Nebbiolo
Giuseppe Rinaldi
null
null
Giuseppe Rinaldi 2007 Brunate Le Coste (Barolo)
US
A fortified red wine blend of Cab Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot, the alcohol is a Port-like 19.2%. This is dark and substantial, with allspice, clove and cinnamon infusing fig- and plum-flavored fruit. The residual sugar is 6% but the sweetness is not at all overpowering, thanks to the excellent spirit (no burn) and the dense tannins. Try it with figs stuffed with bleu cheese and walnuts.
Mundo Novo
90
38
Oregon
Oregon
Oregon Other
Red Blend
Madrone Mountain
null
null
null
US
A nice wine for the price. Very crisp in mouthwatering acidity, it shows dry to slightly off-dry flavors of vanilla, Meyer lemons, dates and cinnamon spices.
null
85
11
California
Lake County
Mendocino/Lake Counties
Sauvignon Blanc
Stephen Vincent
null
null
null
Spain
Clean, fresh and layered up front, with peach, cherry and nectarine flavors and then apricot on the finish. The feel is good throughout, with no excess weight or sweetness. An uncomplicated, no-frills rosé, which is what Navarra and Señoría de Sarria do best.
Rosado
87
10
Northern Spain
Navarra
null
Grenache
Señorío de Sarria
null
null
null
France
89—91 Barrel sample. Very rich fruit, very ripe, sweet wine tempered with botrytis dryness. Great full flavors of candied fruits and quince.
Barrel sample
90
null
Bordeaux
Sauternes
null
Bordeaux-style White Blend
Château Caillou
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Château Caillou 2006 Barrel sample (Sauternes)
Spain
Dark fruits, leather, compost and burnt aromas blend together on the nose. The palate is tannic and gritty feeling, while black fruit and herbal flavors lead to a narrow, mildly bitter finish containing chocolate and coffee. Solid but hard and herbal.
Crianza
86
27
Northern Spain
Ribera del Duero
null
Tinta Fina
Legaris
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
Legaris 2008 Crianza (Ribera del Duero)
Italy
This is a fragrant expression of Chardonnay from northeast Italy that puts an emphasis on exotic fruit, yellow rose, melon and stone fruit. There's good structure here and density and the wine would pair well with seafood risotto or grilled calamari. We liked this vintage much better than 2007.
null
86
20
Northeastern Italy
Colli Orientali del Friuli
null
Chardonnay
Zorzettig
null
null
null
Italy
Here's a genuine and straightforward Barbera d'Alba with good quality of fruit (this wine is neither too dense or extracted) and ripe tones of cherry and raspberry. The mouthfeel is compact and firm. This is your quintessential pizza or pasta wine.
La Bruciata
87
12
Piedmont
Barbera d'Alba
null
Barbera
Oscar Bosio
null
null
Oscar Bosio 2007 La Bruciata (Barbera d'Alba)
Italy
Comedìa is a blend of Sangiovese (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that delivers immediate aromas of spice, toasted almond and cherry fruit. It shows crisp, fresh acidity and an easy mouthfeel that would pair well with aged pecorino cheese.
Comedìa
87
19
Tuscany
Rosso di Toscana
null
Red Blend
Bellini
null
null
Bellini 2009 Comedìa Red (Rosso di Toscana)
Austria
Apart from fresh citrus peel and yeasty savoriness, this Grüner delivers a full herbal repertoire of chervil and rocket, watercress and lemon balm. The spine is of lemony acidity, painting a picture of thrilling, concentrated freshness, interspersed with peppery layers of interest and a nearly endless herbal finish.
Wechselberg
93
19
Kamptal
null
null
Grüner Veltliner
Eichinger
Anne Krebiehl MW
@AnneInVino
Eichinger 2014 Wechselberg Grüner Veltliner (Kamptal)
France
Lively and fragrant notes of ripe pear and red apple are immensely appetizing, while the palate is edged with its very own spiciness. The totally moreish ripe-apple freshness pervades and illuminates everything and echoes long. Drink soon while aromas are at their peak.
Plaisir Fruité
89
14
Alsace
Alsace
null
Pinot Blanc
Ruhlmann
null
null
null
Italy
This 100% Sangiovese wine offers black cherry and baking spice scents that carry over to the palate. It's fresh, accented by an earthy hint of new leather, and framed by supple tannins. Drink through 2020.
I Sodi del Paretaio Riserva
88
22
Tuscany
Chianti
null
Sangiovese
Badia di Morrona
Kerin O’Keefe
@kerinokeefe
Badia di Morrona 2013 I Sodi del Paretaio Riserva (Chianti)
Argentina
Plum and dry spice aromas are solid and don't steer you wrong, while the palate has reasonably good depth and feel along with sweet berry flavors that show no variety or evolution once they get going. A little sugary on the finish, but solid as a whole.
null
85
14
Other
Neuquén
null
Pinot Noir
Caitec
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
Caitec 2007 Pinot Noir (Neuquén)
US
What a nice rosé this is, elegant, full-bodied and dry. Made from Carignane, it's not especially complex, but shows an array of rose petal, strawberry, Provençal herb, vanilla and spice flavors, wrapped into a silky, crisp texture.
Redhead
86
12
California
Mendocino
Mendocino/Lake Counties
Rosé
Fife
null
null
null
Argentina
Cassis, sugar beet, leather and mild herbal aromas make this Cabernet appealing on the nose. It feels slightly syrupy and resiny, but with its core acidity the palate remains in good shape. Flavors of plum and cassis have a strong vanilla and oak resin accent, while the finish is tannic, roasted and robust.
Broquel
88
15
Mendoza Province
Mendoza
null
Cabernet Sauvignon
Trapiche
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
Trapiche 2010 Broquel Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendoza)
Italy
Here's an oak-driven Brunello that needs time to evolve—give it five years or more. Glimmers of bright fruit emerge despite the presence of toasted almond, cedar wood and vanilla extract. The wine is concentrated with soft tannins and a lovely rich feel in the mouth.
null
92
40
Tuscany
Brunello di Montalcino
null
Sangiovese Grosso
Mocali
null
null
Mocali 2007 Brunello di Montalcino
Italy
This is a simple and fresh Italian sparkler that offers white flower and peach backed by citrus and almond. A touch of soft sweetness adds a chewy spot that is followed by creamy mousse.
Extra Dry
85
15
Veneto
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore
null
Glera
Terre di San Venanzio Fortunato
null
null
null
Italy
A blend of equal parts of Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, this opens with mature blackberry, cedar and underbrush aromas. The juicy, creamy palate delivers black cherry, black currant, mint and tobacco flavors, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Enjoy through 2028.
Piastraia
93
70
Tuscany
Bolgheri Superiore
null
Red Blend
Michele Satta
null
null
null
US
This wine is both refined and robust, from a three-acre block replanted in 2007. It is aged in older French barrels, with the fruit sultry in cherry and black tea, the tension of the acidity hard to shake which contributes to its overall softness and complex intensity.
North Block
91
85
California
Green Valley
Sonoma
Pinot Noir
Iron Horse
Virginie Boone
@vboone
Iron Horse 2013 North Block Pinot Noir (Green Valley)
Argentina
Earthy and spicy on the nose, with tomato and raisin but also some herbal green, which is likely attributable to the 50% Cabernet in this Malbec-CS blend. Tame on the palate, with tomatoey notes and dry raspberry flavors. Simple and pleasant but more herbal and less exciting that Gradum's straight '05 Malbec.
Gradum Reserve
86
14
Mendoza Province
Mendoza
null
Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon
Bodega Vistandes
null
null
null
US
Closed and muted on the nose at first, this wine shows varietal scents that include blue and red berry fruit and dried sage. Softly textured, it's an approachable middle-of-the-road Syrah.
Estate Grown
86
35
California
Carneros
Napa-Sonoma
Syrah
Broadway Vineyards
Virginie Boone
@vboone
Broadway Vineyards 2013 Estate Grown Syrah (Carneros)
France
A soft, mature but unfocused wine which has acidity and toast without the weight and richness to sustain it. It is enjoyable as an old wine, yes, but it's missed something along the way.
Consécration
83
null
Champagne
Champagne
null
Champagne Blend
J. de Telmont
null
null
null
Argentina
Aromas of black fruit carry a light oak accent, and overall this is the type of Malbec that will earn more friends than detractors. Kind of hard and tannic in the mouth, with crisp black cherry and raspberry flavors. Clean but tough mouthfeel. Needs a burger or a slice of pizza to cut the tannins.
null
85
12
Mendoza Province
Uco Valley
null
Malbec
Mil Piedras
null
null
null
US
A decent Chardonnay, but it's pretty sweet and simple, with the taste of sugared pineapple and orange tea. Oak and alcohol of course make it more wine-like.
Barney's Heritage Cuvee
84
29
California
Napa Valley
Napa
Chardonnay
Hawkstone
null
null
Hawkstone 2009 Barney's Heritage Cuvee Chardonnay (Napa Valley)
US
It's been such a pleasure to watch Martin Ray expand into their appellation series of Cabernet Sauvignons, which they do with such aplomb. This '06 Stags Leap shows the elegant power of that appellation, with classic black currant and cedar flavors that are instantly appealing but will age through 2012.
Reserve
92
45
California
Stags Leap District
Napa
Cabernet Sauvignon
Martin Ray
null
null
null
France
A lightweight wine with flavors of bitter almonds, pears, soft and rounded. Stone fruits and a yeasty touch of toasted bread lead to an orange zest finish.
null
84
null
Burgundy
Mâcon-Villages
null
Chardonnay
Domaine Sangouard-Guyot
null
null
null
US
A deliciously complex Chardonnay, nearly as good as the winery's single-vineyard wines, which makes it a great value. Smooth and clean, it shows vanilla cream, pineapple tart, Key lime pie and buttered toast flavors. Vibrant acidity keeps it all uplifted and bright.
null
92
24
California
Edna Valley
Central Coast
Chardonnay
Stephen Ross
null
null
Stephen Ross 2008 Chardonnay (Edna Valley)
Italy
This blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of evident oak, saw dust and blackberry. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, black currant and raisin flavors, with accents of white pepper and clove.
Foresco
87
18
Central Italy
Umbria
null
Red Blend
Barberani
Kerin O’Keefe
@kerinokeefe
Barberani 2010 Foresco Red (Umbria)
Italy
This opens with a wet earth aroma, plus easy notes of black fruit and prune. On the palate, there's a ripe note of fruity sweetness that gives the wine roundness and softness on the finish.
Ampelo
87
15
Southern Italy
Salento
null
Malvasia Nera
Luccarelli
null
null
null
France
Montée de Tonnerre is considered one of the richest premier crus in Chablis, and this wine lives up to that reputation. It's ripe and full of yellow fruit, while maintaining its acidity and tight texture. Still young, its intense fruit and crispness will allow it to age for many years. Drink from 2019.
Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru
93
57
Burgundy
Chablis
null
Chardonnay
Domaine Billaud-Simon
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Domaine Billaud-Simon 2014 Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru (Chablis)
Spain
Broad and rubbery, with ripe black fruit and citrus peel on the nose. Good on the tongue, with a solid mouthfeel. And the finish is attractively marinated, offering hints of soy sauce, molasses and sea salt. Fresh enough, and definitely forward in thrust.
Reserva
87
34
Northern Spain
Rioja
null
Tempranillo
Valenciso
null
null
null
US
Produced from the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley, this extraordinary wine is history in a bottle. Glorious aromatics offer intense scents of citrus, pine needle, pepper and berry, with flavors following. There's a welcome kick of citrus in the natural acidity, and this promises a long cellar life, as proven over and over again by this founding Oregon winery. Drink 2020 through 2040 and beyond.
Original Vines Estate
94
80
Oregon
Dundee Hills
Willamette Valley
Pinot Noir
The Eyrie Vineyards
Paul Gregutt
@paulgwine 
The Eyrie Vineyards 2013 Original Vines Estate Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills)
Italy
This well-priced blend of Sangiovese (70%) and Merlot offers friendly and approachable aromas of ripe berry fruit, blackberry jam, spice and light touches of leather and tobacco. The fresh finish makes it a perfect Tuscan red to pair with ravioli stuffed with minced meat or cheese.
Badiola
88
15
Tuscany
Toscana
null
Red Blend
Mazzei
null
null
null
France
This dark, brooding wine shows many of the qualities of this great vineyard, just across the road from Romanée-Conti. The dense tannins dominate, but the rich black cherry fruit is their equal, creating structure. A wine to savor over many years.
null
92
null
Burgundy
La Grande Rue
null
Pinot Noir
Domaine François Lamarche
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Domaine François Lamarche 2005 La Grande Rue
Italy
This is a beautiful expression of Amarone with jammy fruit aromas that are surrounded by subtle nuances of exotic spice, mesquite wood, cola and lightly toasted almond. The wine is soft and chewy with loads of richness and intensity on the long finish.
null
93
70
Veneto
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico
null
Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara
Zenato
null
null
null
US
The blend is 60-40 Grenache-Syrah, and the name comes from French slang for something that is luxurious, really chic. Sappy, grapy, nicely lifted and vivacious, this is a beautiful mix of fruits in a spectrum from watermelon to strawberry to red plum to raspberry and pie cherry. There's plenty of acid and just a whiff of pepper from the Syrah.
Byzance
89
30
Washington
Yakima Valley
Columbia Valley
Grenache-Shiraz
Brian Carter Cellars
null
null
null
Italy
A blend of Bordeaux-based grapes, Terra di Monteverro shows youthful aromas of cherry, blackberry and cassis, backed by savory layers of spice, leather and tobacco. This is rich, smooth and powerful, and it will age for 10 years or more.
Terra di Monteverro
92
75
Tuscany
Toscana
null
Red Blend
Monteverro
null
null
null
Italy
Rose, violet, baking spice and red berry aromas come together on this graceful wine. The bright, subtle palate offers crushed raspberry, red cherry and white pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. A star anise note signals the close.
Pora
90
38
Piedmont
Barbaresco
null
Nebbiolo
Musso
null
null
null
Italy
Here's an understated Vino Nobile with elegant, but not very intense, notes of blackberry, almond, spice, mesquite wood and cola. The wine is thin and a bit sharp on the palate with crisp acidity and medium length on the close.
null
87
25
Tuscany
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
null
Prugnolo Gentile
Avignonesi
null
null
null
Chile
A sweet nose with banana, lemon-lime, and pipe tobacco elements opens to a straightforward, rather tart palate with light apple and lemon flavors.
null
82
8
Rapel Valley
null
null
Chardonnay
Santa Monica
null
null
null
Austria
This offers the same scent as a bowl full of ripe, almost overripe red and black wild cherries. Juiciness and succulence reign. Freshness and medium body are well aligned and frame the opulent fruit. A beautiful introduction to Saint Laurent for those who don't yet know it.
Reserve
89
24
Niederösterreich
null
null
St. Laurent
Forstreiter
null
null
null
Portugal
This is an attractive, lemon and lime-flavored wine. Riper yellow fruits also show through the crisp acidity and the lightly mineral texture. The wine is ready to drink.
Bridão Classico Branco
85
7
Tejo
null
null
Portuguese White
Adega Cooperativa do Cartaxo
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Adega Cooperativa do Cartaxo 2015 Bridão Classico Branco White (Tejo)
Italy
Barolo La Serra from Gianni Voerzio would make a perfect companion to pulled pork smoked over hardwood charcoal. There's a sassy spice element here backed by plush layers of blueberry, blackberry and plum. The tannins are still on the young, astringent side; give this wine some time to unwind in the cellar.
La Serra
94
100
Piedmont
Barolo
null
Nebbiolo
Gianni Voerzio
null
null
null
US
In this Bordeaux-style blend, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot comprise a quarter of the finished wine. However, it's almost weightless, with dilute flavors of leaf, herb and lemon.
David's Block Red Willow Vineyard
85
35
Washington
Yakima Valley
Columbia Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon
Eight Bells
Paul Gregutt
@paulgwine 
Eight Bells 2011 David's Block Red Willow Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Yakima Valley)
Portugal
This is an oak-aged wine full of ripe red-plum and highly toasted wood flavors. The two do not yet completely harmonize, with the burnt wood still dominating the fruit. Another year should do the trick.
Guadalupe Tinto
87
null
Alentejano
null
null
Portuguese Red
Quinta do Quetzal
null
null
null
France
A textured, structured wine, solid and packed with tannins. It is full of concentrated black currant and prune flavors, layered with dark coffee. It is worth aging for at least 1–2 years.
Domaine de Montchavy
90
null
Beaujolais
Morgon
null
Gamay
Georges Duboeuf
Roger Voss
@vossroger
Georges Duboeuf 2009 Domaine de Montchavy (Morgon)
US
Smooth and dark black in color, the wine offers a cacophony of smoke, leather and baloney in smell and taste. Layers of black fruit are somewhat obscured by the darker, more savory overtones. Pair carefully with wild boar dressed in chanterelles.
Vagabond
87
60
California
Napa Valley
Napa
Syrah
Bacio Divino
null
null
null
US
Here's a Cab made in Martini's old style, which was a dry, fairly tannic wine low in alcohol compared to today, and consequently less ripe, although there are some raisiny notes indicating unbalanced bunches. Drink now.
null
85
24
California
Napa Valley
Napa
Cabernet Sauvignon
Louis M. Martini
null
null
null
Austria
A partnership between the Metternich and Salomon families has produced this rich, elegant wine. It has such an aromatic, perfumed character and is so ripe and full. At the same time, it has a tight mineral edge, a fine streak of acidity and immense aging potential. Drink from 2016.
Pfaffenberg Erste Lage
94
null
Kremstal
null
null
Riesling
Metternich-Salomon
null
null
null
US
This pleasant bubbly seems sweet and crisp, featuring flavors of raspberry, strawberry, vanilla and yeast. With a rich copper color, it's an affordable sparkling wine to drink with sushi.
Brut Rosé
86
13
California
California
California Other
Sparkling Blend
Korbel
null
null
Korbel NV Brut Rosé Sparkling (California)
Greece
A mysterious nose of black fruit, red berries, violets and cedar start this Cab/Syrah blend. On the palate, rounded, savory flavors are punctuated by spicy tobacco, cedar and pepper accents. An alluring balance of fruit and acid, it has character and style.
Oenodea
88
19
Drama
null
null
Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah
Domaine Costa Lazaridi
Susan Kostrzewa
@suskostrzewa
Domaine Costa Lazaridi 2006 Oenodea Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah (Drama)
Austria
Zesty lemon paired with riper tropical notes of pineapple counter the racy acidity of this full-flavored wine. This takes time to open up but the intense palate is worth the wait. So serious it should be had with food.
Kranachberg
90
40
Südsteiermark
null
null
Sauvignon Blanc
Skoff
null
null
null
Portugal
A closed, dark, tight wine, with an austere, mineral character, that obviously needs considerable aging. Smoky, meaty, dark tannins are dominant here, the black berry fruit showing through the powerful structure. Keep for 3–4 years.
Reserva
92
26
Dão
null
null
Portuguese Red
Quinta dos Roques
null
null
null
US
This Viognier takes the variety's exotic tropical fruit and orange flavors, combines them with minerals, and finishes off with a crisp bite of acidity. The result is a rich, elegant wine, with a hint of honeyed sweetness.
null
87
20
California
Santa Ynez Valley
Central Coast
Viognier
Zaca Mesa
null
null
null
Portugal
Soft in texture yet mouthcoating in its intensity, this is a honeyed, nutty wine filled with dried fruit, toffee and almond butter aromas and flavors. Like all tawnies, it won't improve with bottle age, so drink this while your young vintage Ports hog the cellar space.
20 Year Old Tawny
91
50
Port
null
null
Port
Dow's
null
null
null
Spain
This feels good in a regular sense, with apple-driven acidity and leesy notes of vanilla. A standard, zesty, pithy palate offers briny, slightly bitter flavors of peach and pulpy citrus, while the finish feels citric and tastes briny.
Monasterio de Palazuelos
85
15
Northern Spain
Rueda
null
Verdejo
De Alberto
Michael Schachner
@wineschach
De Alberto 2014 Monasterio de Palazuelos Verdejo (Rueda)
US
This is the Hearst family's run at a luxury-level Chardonnay, and it's a promising start, with creamy aromas of honeysuckle, light butter and citrus rinds. There's a touch of vanilla bean on the palate, which also shows apple ice cream, flashes of cinnamon and a firmly wound texture. It's delicate, clean, light and quaffable.
Proprietor's Reserve
90
50
California
Central Coast
Central Coast
Chardonnay
Hearst Ranch
Matt Kettmann
@mattkettmann
Hearst Ranch 2014 Proprietor's Reserve Chardonnay (Central Coast)
US
This is a smooth customer, with a rich, silky mouthfeel, and has the soft seductive velvety character that allows it to feel complete as a standalone clone. It stops a bit short in the finish, hitting some herbal tannins, but resonates with pretty barrel notes of caramel and a hint of honey.
Prince Hill Pommard
90
50
Oregon
Dundee Hills
Willamette Valley
Pinot Noir
Erath
Paul Gregutt
@paulgwine 
Erath 2008 Prince Hill Pommard Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills)