spawn99/wine-reviews · Datasets at Hugging Face

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Italy	From the area of Chianti that falls within the Province of Siena (as opposed to Florence) this easy red wine is characterized by red fruit, cassis, almond skin and blue flower.	Terra di Siena	86	null	Tuscany	Chianti Colli Senesi	null	Sangiovese	Tenuta di Trecciano	null	null	null
Italy	Aromas of graphite, underbrush, toasted oak and dark berry lead the nose. The structured palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry, anise, grilled sage and espresso alongside bracing, grippy tannins. Drink 2016–2026.	Colledilà Gran Selezione	89	66	Tuscany	Chianti Classico	null	Sangiovese	Barone Ricasoli	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Barone Ricasoli 2011 Colledilà Gran Selezione (Chianti Classico)
Argentina	Value-level Chardonnay has never really been Argentina's strong suit, but this fuller-bodied version is pretty good. It starts with citrus, orange peel and some dusty scents, which are backed by melon, apple and citrus flavors. It finishes with some pithy bitterness but overall it's nice for Mendoza Chardonnay.	null	86	12	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Chardonnay	Septima	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Septima 2006 Chardonnay (Mendoza)
US	Tannic and chewy, this is simple, sturdy and solidly in the herbal camp. Flavors are short and the finish leans into veggies.	null	81	10	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Hoodsport	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Hoodsport 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA))
Chile	This is a stately Cabernet housing classic Chilean aromas of spicy, berry fruits mixed with earth notes. It's supremely fresh on the palate, with layers of briar fruit and integrated oak. Baked berry, hard spice and exotic chocolate flavors end toasty and warm, but lively and complex. Drink through 2024.	null	93	76	Maipo Valley	null	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Enclave	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Enclave 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley)
France	The Domaines Ott Chateau de Selle is a breed apart, with little of the effusive red fruit that we typically associate with Provence Rosés. The 2008 shows vanilla and butterscotch aromas that lead to a serious, medium-weight palate with good flavor intensity. Winds up on a lingering note of newly-mown hay. Drink now.	Château de Selle	88	42	Provence	Côtes de Provence	null	Rosé	Domaines Ott	null	null	null
US	Dry and balanced, just 25% of this went through malolactic, it shows crisp apple, pear and citrus brightened with punchy acids. Just a hint of oak from aging in 25% new barrels.	null	88	12	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Chardonnay	Waterbrook	null	null	null
Italy	This is a thick and enduring blend of Trebbiano (70%) and Grechetto (30%) that rests in the lees and sees contact with oak for a creamy, thick and luscious impact. The wine's aromas include sweet peach and honeysuckle.	Torre di Giano Vigna il Pino	88	32	Central Italy	Torgiano	null	White Blend	Lungarotti	null	null	null
Italy	Very fresh and easy-going, this cheerful sparkling Prosecco is a perfect choice for afternoon sips by the pool or in the garden. Citrus, lime, white flower and nectarine open the bouquet.	Cuvée Beatrice	86	null	Veneto	Prosecco	null	Glera	Cà Furlan	null	null	Cà Furlan NV Cuvée Beatrice (Prosecco)
France	This is a generous, ripe wine, full of red fruits and soft acidity. It's already enjoyable, but will benefit from aging until 2015 to bring out the refreshing fruitiness even more.	null	88	22	Beaujolais	Beaujolais-Villages	null	Gamay	Château de Corcelles	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Château de Corcelles 2012 Beaujolais-Villages
France	Shows its Right Bank roots in Merlot and Cab Franc-derived red fruit and herb flavors: strawberry, tomato and rhubarb. Turns leathery and earthy, with some hints of toast on the finish.	null	83	15	Bordeaux	Montagne-Saint-Émilion	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Vieux Château Négrit	null	null	null
France	A deliciously dry wine, evoking flavors of crisp green-apple skins and white currants; this is elegant despite its weight and body. It has freshness, certainly, and needs some bottle age. The style is ripe, but the dryness gives some opening austerity.	Tsarine Premier Cru Brut	90	54	Champagne	Champagne	null	Champagne Blend	Chanoine	null	null	null
France	91-93 Barrel sample. A immensely smooth, polished wine. The complement to this are the acidity, great fruit, making a modern, sophisticated wine.	Barrel sample	92	null	Bordeaux	Saint-Émilion	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château Jean-Faure	null	null	null
Spain	Blackberry, cassis, coffee and charred aromas make for a smoky, healthy, attractive bouquet. This is dense, deep, tannic and a bit rubbery and bouncy in feel. Tea, herb, chocolate and baked blackberry flavors end with cocoa and herbal, earthy notes. Drink this ripe gran reserva through 2023.	Imperial Gran Reserva	92	70	Northern Spain	Rioja	null	Tempranillo Blend	CVNE	null	null	null
France	A gentle lift of crushed black cherry rises from the glass. There also is an edge of medicinal herb. The body is light and juicy, fresh and highly aromatic. There is concentration without weight, luxuriant fruit without plumpness. This is fresh and pure, lifted and profound. An utterly honest and uplifting rendition of Pinot Noir.	Fronholz	92	59	Alsace	Alsace	null	Pinot Noir	Domaine Ostertag	null	null	null
Italy	Mastroberardino's Radici (Italian for “roots”) is one of the best Fiano di Avellinos you can find. The wine is luminous and crisp with well-defined mineral notes that shade notes of citrus and stone fruit. Try it with fish or vegetarian foods.	Radici	88	30	Southern Italy	Fiano di Avellino	null	Fiano	Mastroberardino	null	null	null
US	A whiff of floral potpourri that persists from start to finish adds elegance to this full-bodied wine. The palate is expansive and rich, but finishes refreshingly tart with flavors of crisp green apple and lemon.	Famiglia	87	17	New York	North Fork of Long Island	Long Island	Chardonnay	Mattebella	Anna Lee C. Iijima	null	Mattebella 2009 Famiglia Chardonnay (North Fork of Long Island)
US	Once again, the Burgundian touch of Veronique Drouhin has crafted a wine of surpassing elegance and immaculate structure. This is the antithesis of a jammy, California style yet it retains much of the vibrancy of New World fruit rather than the suppressed rusticity of Burgundy. Delicate cherry and tart plum fruit is sculpted into a wine with nuanced details of cola and coffee and spice.	null	91	45	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Domaine Drouhin Oregon	null	null	null
Italy	This modern-style Dolcetto has plenty of dark, jammy fruit, a chunky crowd-pleasing personality and enough structure underneath to give it longevity and length. A pleasant if nontraditional take on Dolcetto.	Vigna Sorì Rocca	88	18	Piedmont	Dolcetto d'Alba	null	Dolcetto	Tenuta Rocca	null	null	null
Spain	Mature, classy and different than most, with earth, tobacco, warm fruit, baked notes and subtlety to the bouquet. The palate is whole, welcoming and full of baked plum, spice, molasses and leathery, and then it finish long and complex, but a little sweet and rooty. A winner from Mallorca for those seeking something different. Drink now.	Àn	91	55	Spanish Islands	Vi de la Terra Illes Balears	null	Red Blend	Ànima Negra	null	null	null
Portugal	Bright pink in color, this is a fresh wine with some citrus character that gives crispness. A sweeter side shows at the end and gives a soft aftertaste.	null	86	10	Tejo	null	null	Rosé	Quinta do Casal Branco	null	null	null
US	An awkward wine. Smells a little vegetal, and tastes weirdly sweet in raspberry and cherry syrup, with a cloying finish. Ready now.	Family Estate Vineyard Private Reserve	82	48	California	Santa Lucia Highlands	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Manzoni	null	null	null
South Africa	Blackberry and cassis dominate the bouquet, with notes of coffee, sweet spice and savory herb adding complexity. Balanced and well structured with a medium-weight mouth and solid tannins. Grilled black plum flavors carry though on the finish. Drink now.	null	87	32	Stellenbosch	null	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Hartenberg	null	null	null
Italy	Underbrush, spiced plum, vanilla and French oak are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied red. The dense palate offers dried black cherry, toast, coconut, licorice and oak-driven spice alongside round tannins. A walnut note closes the finish. Drink soon.	Vigna Basarin	88	null	Piedmont	Barbera d'Alba	null	Barbera	Luigi Voghera	null	null	null
US	Muscular, mouth-puckering tannins assert this wine's power. Tar, tobacco and generous baked blackberry and cherry flavors unfold in the glass, revealing a concentrated expression of mountain fruit.	Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard	88	null	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Krupp Brothers	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Krupp Brothers 2012 Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Italy	A blend of Tocai Friulano, Pinot Bianco, Sauvignon and Malvasia, this crisp, fresh wine has elegant, refreshing acidity, flavors of white currants and lychees and a soft, ripe aftertaste.	Blanc des Rosis	89	31	Northeastern Italy	Friuli Venezia Giulia	null	White Blend	Mario Schiopetto	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Mario Schiopetto 2001 Blanc des Rosis White (Friuli Venezia Giulia)
US	Feels instantly special in the mouth, with beautiful tannins that are soft and ripe but complex at the same time. They frame deep, flavors of blackberries, currants, tobacco, dark chocolate, violets, anise and cedar, firmed with minerals. Best 2010–2014.	Signature	94	52	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Chappellet	null	null	null
US	Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, this Tablas clone Syrah offers red and purple berry flavors that are deep and pure. Snappy and focused, it's layered with notes of smoke, dust, citrus, blood orange, baking spices and mineral. Beautiful indeed.	The Beautiful	94	60	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Syrah	K Vintners	null	null	null
US	Good, rich Zinfandel here, dry and slightly high in alcohol, with a blast of berry, cherry, cola and spice flavors. Enjoy it now with hearty meats or cheese-based, tomatoey veggie dishes.	Helen's Ridge Vineyard	87	34	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Zinfandel	Occidental Road Cellars	null	null	null
US	A blend of near-equal parts Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, this wine brings aromas of overripe pear and apple and toasted grapenuts that lead to dry, lightly fruit flavors. It's a straightforward quaffer.	Tell-Tale Super-Tuscan-Style	86	19	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	White Blend	Genoa	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Genoa 2014 Tell-Tale Super-Tuscan-Style White (Columbia Valley (WA))
Portugal	A sweet, raisin-flavored vintage Port with a hugely dark color. Despite the attractive fruit, the wine lacks real intensity of structure. True, there are firm tannins but they are not anchored to the fruit, which misses concentration.	Vintage	86	70	Port	null	null	Port	Barros	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Barros 2005 Vintage (Port)
France	This Roederer-owned property has produced an impressive wine this vintage. Full, plump and rich, and packed with firm black fruits which are layered with fine, pure acidity. This is a wine that is likely to age, over 5–10 years. Imported by Maisons Marques & Domaines USA.	null	91	39	Bordeaux	Saint-Estèphe	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château de Pez	null	null	null
Portugal	This rich blend brings together Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah with Touriga Nacional and Alicante Bouschet. It forms a richly textured wine that is ripe with red fruits and acidity, as well as spicy tannins. Light wood aging has smoothed out the corners of the wine. Drink from 2018.	Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Tinto	89	15	Alentejano	null	null	Portuguese Red	Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas 2015 Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Tinto Red (Alentejano)
Australia	Aromas are of blackberry and earth. The best feature here is the wine's texture—it's nice and smooth, like river rocks, and the impression really sticks on the midpalate. Red fruit flavors hover underneath.	null	89	35	Victoria	Heathcote	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Downing Estate	null	null	null
US	Purple and plum in color, this delivers plummy fruit and graphite, or charcoal dust, in the tannins. It's bone dry and straightforward, clean and balanced.	null	87	28	Oregon	Oregon	Oregon Other	Tempranillo	Obsidian	null	null	null
Australia	With 75% Shiraz, 22% Cabernet Franc and 3% Viognier, this wine stands out in a crowd. We get your expected plum and pepper notes from the Shiraz, but there are also elegant notes of cherry juice, pipe tobacco and tomato leaf along with a surprisingly firm acidity given the high level of ripeness. Tame tannins and leather notes come through on the finish. Drink now to 2013.	The Pretty Miss Shiraz-Cabernet Franc-Viognier	88	20	South Australia	Barossa	null	Red Blend	Creed of Barossa	null	null	null
Germany	This smells superripe—the fruit seems almost caramelized—but there's also a refreshing bright beam of citrus as well, bringing the sweetness into balance. At the moment, there's a bit of a disconnect between the honeyed flavors and crisp, lime-like acids, but these elements should come into better harmony over the next few years.	Abtsberg Spätlese	91	33	Mosel-Saar-Ruwer	null	null	Riesling	Maximin Grünhäuser	null	null	null
New Zealand	A savory style, one that focuses on woodsy, mushroomy, meaty complexity. If most New World Pinot Noirs are too fruity for your tastes, try this, as the the tannins are soft, the flavors complex. Drink now.	Falveys	85	28	Marlborough	null	null	Pinot Noir	Omaka Springs	null	null	null
US	This Lodi wine has a whirl of smoky, oaky flavors, plus a not entirely pleasant green tinge to its finish.	null	80	12	California	Lodi	Central Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Insatiable	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Insatiable 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (Lodi)
Italy	Linear and elegant, this bears dusty tones of granite and black fruit that accompany lingering background aromas of spice and tobacco. Dark and deeply extracted, the wine lasts long on the palate, expressing dark plum and cigar flavors along the way.	Raiano	91	38	Southern Italy	Taurasi	null	Aglianico	Villa Raiano	null	null	null
France	Crisp and clean, with lemon-lime fruit, a bit of stone and just a hint of licorice. It’s simple and straightforward, though it lacks complexity and elegance. It falls off and gets a bit hard and tough in the finish.	Brut	84	30	Champagne	Champagne	null	Champagne Blend	Montaudon	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Montaudon NV Brut (Champagne)
US	This small-production, single-vineyard white hails from a site at the southern end of the appellation, close to Carneros. It shines in golden apple, honey graham cracker and a rich texture that impresses from start to finish. A floral element persists and intrigues, a mix of wildflower and fennel.	Ruhl Vineyard	93	38	California	Mount Veeder	Napa	Chardonnay	Grow Wines	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Grow Wines 2014 Ruhl Vineyard Chardonnay (Mount Veeder)
France	89-91 Barrel sample. A rounded wine, packed with rich fruits, feeling generous. The plum and damson juice flavors are dominant, ripe and powerful.	Barrel sample	90	null	Bordeaux	Margaux	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château d'Angludet	null	null	null
Portugal	Using a blend of grapes sourced from old vines, this is powerful, dense and very concentrated. At the same time, an elegance lightens the wine's weight and integrates all of its elements. This serious, structured offering should be aged for 4–5 years.	Reserva Field Blend	93	60	Douro	null	null	Portuguese Red	Quinta do Vallado	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Quinta do Vallado 2010 Reserva Field Blend Red (Douro)
Chile	Standard berry and cherry aromas are clean and round, while the palate is full and honest, with medium tannins and controlled acidity. For basic Merlot it's nice because there's sweetness, ripe fruit flavors, cola and juicy snap to the finish.	null	86	12	Colchagua Valley	null	null	Merlot	Calcu	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Calcu 2008 Merlot (Colchagua Valley)
US	A roughly equal blend of Tempranillo and Grenache, this appealing wine showcases pretty pomegranate and raspberry fruit. In the mouth the flavors turn a little candied, with a gumdrop character that thickens the finish.	Tradición	87	26	Oregon	Rogue Valley	Southern Oregon	Tempranillo-Garnacha	Jaxon	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Jaxon 2012 Tradición Tempranillo-Garnacha (Rogue Valley)
Spain	There's no shortage of power here. Forward berry aromas mixed with earth and leather ring true, while the palate is layered, broad, chewy and offers bright cherry and plum flavors. It dries out well on the finish, leaving tasty notes of pepper and herbs. From the Granada area.	Veleta	87	13	Andalucia	Vino de la Tierra Contraviesa Alpujarra	null	Tempranillo	Dominio Buenavista	null	null	null
US	A challenging name for a pretty good wine, given the frost and smoke issues so many North Coast producers faced in 2008, not to mention consumers' tendency to stay away from wines that might give them headaches. This 50% Petite Sirah-based blend (there's Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, too) is a sledgehammer of a wine, all savory leather and dark blue fruit, with a velvety structure that'll linger a long time.	O-Eight Headache!	87	33	California	Red Hills Lake County	Mendocino/Lake Counties	Red Blend	Chacewater	null	null	null
US	Fashion designer/vintner Richard Hirsh is aiming for the mass market with this approachable if slightly sweet blend. Its wide appeal is the result of sun-filled fruit, showing honey, baked apple, orange blossom and tropical notes on the nose. It's soft on the palate, with candied apple, brown sugar and lemongrass flavors.	Honey Pie	87	32	California	California	California Other	White Blend	Woodstock Collection	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Woodstock Collection NV Honey Pie White (California)
US	This is the kind of wine that goes with just about anything that goes with red. It's dry and completely balanced in acids and tannins, with a good mélange of cherries and mushroomy, earthy notes, and a silky, velvety mouthfeel. Really hard to find anything not to like.	null	88	16	California	Amador County	Sierra Foothills	Syrah	Sobon Estate	null	null	null
Spain	Nice, simple and still showing staying power for an '09. Tastes of white stone fruits and melon, and shows body and adequate acidity. Not the most citric or angular Verdejo; it's more round and easy. Finishes clean with no funk. Uncomplicated white wine for immediate consumption.	null	86	13	Northern Spain	Rueda	null	Verdejo	Ermita de Nieve	null	null	null
France	This wine takes white Châteauneuf-du-Pape to rare heights. Mouthwatering aromas of toasted nuts and pineapple set the stage for a full-bodied, rich, succulent wine experience whose finish lingers. Yet despite the wine's undeniable heft, it never seems overly weighty. Drink this blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc over the next couple of years.	Château de Beaucastel	93	108	Rhône Valley	Châteauneuf-du-Pape	null	Rhône-style White Blend	Famille Perrin	null	null	null
US	Another fine vintage for this veteran Napa winery. Shows a classic Napa character, with ripe flavors of cassis and blackcurrants and finely-ground, complex but easy tannins. The oak, which contributes vanilla, smoke and woody spice, is strong, but not oppressive. Doesn't seem to be an ager, and best enjoyed soon.	Oroppas	90	50	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Red Blend	St. Clement	null	null	null
US	At first this profoundly compelling wine seems rather light, but as it pirouettes on a base of cherry and sassafras, it constantly shifts and sends up shafts of previously undetected flavors. Popcorn, saffron and just the faintest hint of barnyard emerge—suddenly it becomes a full-throttle cherry bomb that can best be described as yummy.	Freedom Hill Vineyard	94	48	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Elizabeth Chambers	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Elizabeth Chambers 2012 Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)
France	With some extra weight, this is a solid, red currant and berry driven wine. Its fruit is right up front, backed by a mineral acidity that cuts through the richness. It's definitely a food wine, and equally an impressive wine that needs to age for up to a year.	Château Romassan	92	46	Provence	Bandol	null	Rosé	Domaines Ott	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Domaines Ott 2012 Château Romassan Rosé (Bandol)
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
US	The Rusack family's entry-level Pinot Noir is a great taste of Santa Barbara County, with scents of red fruit, dark earth and cinnamon. The flavors are rich with spice and fruit, like a cherry compote spread on thin slices of warm toast.	null	90	30	California	Santa Barbara County	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Rusack	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Rusack 2012 Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County)
US	Maduro cigars, cedar, beef char and pipe ash highlight the nose on this blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot from a longtime producer. It's relatively lean and light on the palate, with black peppercorns and roasted pork elements. The Cab Franc shows strongly.	Proprietary	89	60	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Corley	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Corley 2011 Proprietary Red (Napa Valley)
New Zealand	Medium-sweet on the IRF scale, this light- to medium-bodied Riesling displays classic scents of petrichor, green apple and lime. Shows decent length and hints of petrol on the finish.	null	88	23	Central Otago	null	null	Riesling	Carrick	null	null	null
US	Pretty in jasmine, lemon and orange, this is a crisp, dry and lovely wine, integrated with just enough heft on the body and a surprisingly deft length on the finish. Stock up for gatherings.	Grenache	91	18	California	North Coast	North Coast	Rosé	Kokomo	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Kokomo 2015 Grenache Rosé (North Coast)
New Zealand	Grapefruit and melon are the predominant aromas and flavors, with a few sprigs of minty green herbs tossed over the top. Finishes with a bitter pith note that seems a little out of place in this otherwise harmonious offering.	Longlands	85	12	Hawke's Bay	null	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Te Awa Farm	null	null	null
Argentina	Warm woodsy berry and prune aromas blend with notes of animal fur and mint. This is full and grabby, but not out of shape. Flavors of raisin and blackberry feature accents of charred oak and creosote, while this ends with roasted, blackened, meaty flavors, mild heat and sticky tannins. Drink through 2021.	Synthesis	90	35	Mendoza Province	Tupungato	null	Malbec	Finca Sophenia	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Finca Sophenia 2014 Synthesis Malbec (Tupungato)
South Africa	A stony, flinty character leads the nose of this blend of 54% Sauvignon Blanc and 46% Sémillon, followed by scents of ripe peach, nectarine, freshly dried grass and herbs. The medium-weight palate offers more clean fruit flavors that result in a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel. Ample acidity lends freshness to the finish, alongside a lingering yellow flower character. Drink now–2019.	Reserve	90	40	Coastal Region	null	null	White Blend	Delaire Graff	Lauren Buzzeo	@laurbuzz	Delaire Graff 2013 Reserve White (Coastal Region)
Portugal	A very soft, open style of wine. It has ripe white pear and spice flavors, but everything is muted. It is clean, fresh, with some lemon flavors just creeping in finally.	Segada Branco	83	9	Estremadura	null	null	Fernão Pires	DFJ Vinhos	Roger Voss	@vossroger	DFJ Vinhos 2008 Segada Branco Fernão Pires (Estremadura)
Portugal	This powerful, ripe wine is a delicious testament to the structured qualities of the Alicante Bouschet. It is rich and dense, with juicy blackberry flavors and dark tannins. With the wood aging smoothing out the wrinkles, the wine is impressive. Drink from 2017.	Premium	91	28	Tejo	null	null	Alicante Bouschet	Fiuza	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Fiuza 2014 Premium Alicante Bouschet (Tejo)
France	Beautifully aromatic notes of ripe citrus peel rise from the glass—think tangerine and juicy clementine. These flavors become more zesty on the full-flavored, concentrated but linear palate. This is not overtly aromatic as Muscat would usually suggest but more concentrated, more serious, with an alluring citrus-scented core that promises beautiful development over the years. There is great balance, lasting length and beautiful poise. Drink 2017–2025.	Kirchberg de Ribeauville Grand Cru	94	33	Alsace	Alsace	null	Muscat	Kuentz-Bas	Anne Krebiehl MW	@AnneInVino	Kuentz-Bas 2015 Kirchberg de Ribeauville Grand Cru Muscat (Alsace)
Greece	Agiorgitiko, famed in Nemea and popular for its soft, fragrant red berry character, is represented well in this balanced, flavorful wine. A nose of wooded spice, pepper and Mediterranean herbs is followed by waves of soft tannis, red fruit, spice and a touch of smoke. Pair with steak or a meat stew.	Réserve	87	16	Nemea	null	null	Agiorgitiko	Tsantali	null	null	null
Austria	Poised, ripe wine that revels in its richness allied to a tight texture of apples skins, white currants and juicy acidity. An edge of pepper gives extra interest and brings out the dry nature of the wine.	Mandel-Höh	91	null	Thermenregion	null	null	Zierfandler	Stadlmann	null	null	null
US	This has a pungent dustiness that's pleasing, rounded out by ripe, tart fruit like pomegranate. It's well-integrated, soft and smooth. The herbal notes should pair well with herb-rubbed roasted chicken.	Pauli Ranch	88	38	California	Redwood Valley	Mendocino/Lake Counties	Barbera	Muscardini	null	null	null
Australia	This dark, rich, earthy wine is notable for its ultrasoft but pleasing tannins. The fruit veers toward plum and blackberry, but it's not superfruity—rather, it's more restrained, with notes of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It turns a little thin on the finish, although there's plenty of spice. Best Buy.	null	86	8	Australia Other	South Eastern Australia	null	Shiraz	McPherson Wine Company	null	null	null
US	Easy-drinking wine here, with lemon-custard flavors and textures. Mothing complicated, and it finishes with a nice, spicy aftertaste. At this price, it's a pretty good value.	null	84	12	California	Santa Barbara County	Central Coast	Sauvignon Blanc	Bridlewood	null	null	null
Italy	Here's a very pretty white wine from Sicily (made with Grillo grapes) that opens with creamy, light nuances of almond blossom, stone fruit and citrus. Pair this wine with steamed white fish.	Kados Risignolo	87	null	Sicily & Sardinia	Sicilia	null	Grillo	Duca di Salaparuta	null	null	Duca di Salaparuta 2009 Kados Risignolo Grillo (Sicilia)
US	The majority Cab Sauvignon in the blend brings classic blackberry and cassis flavors, as well as firm tannins. The flavors are complex and interesting, and change as they breathe in the glass. Should develop additional bottle complexity over the years, although it's ready to drink now.	Estate	93	75	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Sodaro	null	null	Sodaro 2008 Estate Red (Napa Valley)
US	Right away this appealing wines bursts out with scents of chocolate and vanilla—the barrels used were Hungarian and American oak. The fruit is ripe with plum and cassis, the wine still tight and the tannins still chewy and hard. But the pleasing aromas promise a good life ahead.	Birch Creek Vineyards	89	30	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Mannina Cellars	null	null	null
US	Almost as yellow as a white wine with just a tiny touch of blush coloring, this blend of 60% Counoise and 40% Cinsault shows lychee, ripe pears, watermelon juice, lemon juice and a touch of orange rind on the nose. The flavors are very light, so it's more about texture, with lime juice acidity and pear skin grip.	La Rosa	87	20	California	Santa Ynez Valley	Central Coast	Rosé	Martellotto	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Martellotto 2014 La Rosa Rosé (Santa Ynez Valley)
Italy	This is a beautiful Sauvignon Blanc that has the aromatic intensity and crispness expected from the best expressions of the variety. Background tones of citrus, herb and spicy ginger add personality and overall momentum.	Giovanelli	91	44	Northeastern Italy	Alto Adige	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro	null	null	Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro 2009 Giovanelli Sauvignon Blanc (Alto Adige)
US	This aromatic wine suggests a bowl of fruit, with notes of blueberries and blackberries sprinkled with herbs. The palate is tart and supple, showing good concentration of flavor.	null	89	35	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Syrah	Swiftwater Cellars	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Swiftwater Cellars 2014 Syrah (Columbia Valley (WA))
US	Milk chocolate flavors are wrapped around blueberry fruit; this is attractive and fresh, with a smooth center. It lacks a little concentration on the back end, but it's ready to drink right now.	null	87	30	Washington	Red Mountain	Columbia Valley	Syrah	Saviah	null	null	null
US	Lovely structure amplifies all the best qualities of this estate-grown wine. A tight core of pear, lemon and tangerine fruit sets up a long finish. The acidity is clean and in perfect proportion, with no chalkiness. Drink now through 2027.	Clos du Soleil Vineyard	93	75	Oregon	Dundee Hills	Willamette Valley	Chardonnay	Domaine Serene	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Domaine Serene 2015 Clos du Soleil Vineyard Chardonnay (Dundee Hills)
Italy	Aromas of exotic spice, incense and aromatic herb lead the way. On the racy palate, hints of dark spice and cranberry add interest to the wild cherry core while vibrant acidity and supple tannins make it fresh and easy drinking.	null	87	33	Tuscany	Rosso di Montalcino	null	Sangiovese	Le Macioche	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Le Macioche 2013 Rosso di Montalcino
US	Here is a well-focused wine with appealing toastiness as soon as it's opened. Fruit flavors are still tight, but unfold into tangy raspberry. It spent 18 months in half new French oak, to good effect.	Roads End Estate Vineyard	88	45	Oregon	Willamette Valley	null	Pinot Noir	Carlton Cellars	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Carlton Cellars 2011 Roads End Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
US	A heavy, dense Pinot that, despite considerable cherry, raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate fruit richness, feels a bit inert on the palate. Drink now.	null	85	28	California	Sonoma Coast	Sonoma	Pinot Noir	Verve	null	null	null
South Africa	Clean, minerally, but with a spin of spice, the nose on this Chenin suggests fun. On the palate, a good balance of acid and body showcases the wine's citrus and honey flavors. Over all, a great everyday white.	Cape White	86	10	Coastal Region	null	null	Chenin Blanc	The Yellow Cellar	null	null	null
US	This is Coppola's best 2011 Pinot Noir, out of several produced under different brand names. It has a stylish mouthfeel of silk and satin that's pure Pinot. Meanwhile, the flavors are lush, suggesting oak-influenced raspberries.	Kylah's Vineyard Reserve	90	38	California	California	California Other	Pinot Noir	Francis Coppola	null	null	Francis Coppola 2011 Kylah's Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir (California)
US	This unoaked wine smells like melons and pears, and tastes even more crisp and lively, like green apples and lemons. There's a touch of buttery richness in both the aroma and the flavor, and it's well balanced out by bright acidity.	Vista Luna Vineyard	87	28	California	Lodi	Central Valley	Albariño	En Garde	null	null	null
Spain	Fresh peach and nectarine dominate the nose on this semisweet blend of Viura and Malvasia. The flavors are mostly melon and citrus, while the finishing touch is that of fruit cocktail. It's a touch sticky in the long run, but at least it isn't cloying or cooked.	Satinela Medium-Sweet	84	9	Northern Spain	Rioja	null	White Blend	Marqués de Cáceres	null	null	null
Germany	Nearly dry in style, this wine starts off with primary fruit aromas of ripe apples, slightly underripe peaches and a touch of grapefruit, then delivers stonier, more minerally flavors on the palate. Imported by Chapin Cellars, LLC.	Ayler Kupp Spätlese Feinherb	88	19	Mosel-Saar-Ruwer	null	null	Riesling	Rudolf Eilenz	Joe Czerwinski	@JoeCz	Rudolf Eilenz 2006 Ayler Kupp Spätlese Feinherb Riesling (Mosel-Saar-Ruwer)
Italy	An exciting achievement, this select cru throbs with powerful intensity and complexity awarding a long list of adjectives to describe its aromatic qualities: black cherry and cherry liquor, leather, cola, milk chocolate and almond. Berry and bramble flavors make the mouthfeel lively and sophisticated and are a delicate segue into chewy-tart tannins and a spice driven finale.	Terre di Cariano	93	null	Veneto	Amarone della Valpolicella Classico	null	Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara	Cecilia Beretta	null	null	null
Spain	A different breed of blended wine, with earthy aromas of dried cheese, leather, dill and vanilla. The palate is tight and mildly tannic, with sweet cola, roasted berry and earthy tobacco flavors. Not your normal bulky, dark wine; it's complex and based on 85% Garnacha and Carignan.	Masia Carreras	89	42	Northern Spain	Empordà	null	Red Blend	Martí Fabra	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Martí Fabra 2005 Masia Carreras Red (Empordà)
Australia	Intense and focused, this good value Coonawarra opens with notes of leather and polished wood overlaid with red-berry fruit. Tannins are smooth, but there's plenty of lip-smacking acidity to keep the cherry cordial and plum fruit flavors lively. Drink now. Imported by Freixenet USA.	null	88	14	South Australia	Coonawarra	null	Shiraz	Nick Faldo	null	null	Nick Faldo 2005 Shiraz (Coonawarra)
Portugal	The second wine of the Bruno Prats and Symington family joint venture, this is a deliciously fruity wine, but with a fine elegant backbone of light tannins and smoky wood. As befits a second wine in the Bordeaux tradition, this is ready to drink.	Post Scriptum de Chryseia	89	24	Douro	null	null	Portuguese Red	Prats & Symington LDA	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Prats & Symington LDA 2007 Post Scriptum de Chryseia Red (Douro)
France	This is a finely balanced wine, combining an herbaceous flavor with apricot and sweet pear. The whole is a delicious wine that brings together notes of toast and fresh fruit, with a firm, dry structure. For long-term aging.	null	94	null	Bordeaux	Pessac-Léognan	null	Bordeaux-style White Blend	Château Pape Clément	null	null	null
US	Light and clean, this is a gentle take on Pinot Noir, comparable to a modest Bourgogne from a big shipper such as Bouchard. The alcohol rests comfortably at 13.5%, and the wine is done in a fruit-forward, drink-now style that fits the price point.	Oregon	87	20	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Erath	null	null	null
US	The blend is roughly two thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one third Merlot, the color is dark and rich, and the nose inviting. Spice and tobacco, vanilla and moist earth surround black cherry fruit, with tart and lightly drying tannins. Not a big wine, but well-crafted, smooth and supple.	Whistle Stop	86	10	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Merlot	Snoqualmie	null	null	null
France	. From a small south-facing parcel next to the Clos du Papillon vineyard, this is a hugely rich wine, maybe excessively so. It comes from the hot 2003 vintage, and the grapes were obviously superripe. It's round, full-bodied, with ripe quince and white fig flavors. Is there minerality there? It's hard to find, just revel in its opulence. Screwcap.	Trie Spéciale	91	38	Loire Valley	Savennières	null	Chenin Blanc	Domaine des Baumard	null	null	null
US	Inky black in hue, this wine is enormously tannic, which gives it a mouth-numbing astringency. Along with the structure, it has a gigantic, sweet-tasting core of blackberry jam and currant flavors, which breaks through the bitterness. Everything suggests ageability; it should mellow after 2015.	Karren Vineyard	89	30	California	Sonoma Mountain	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	Wellington	null	null	Wellington 2007 Karren Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma Mountain)
US	A pretty good Merlot for the price. It's dry and velvety, with ripe flavors of cherries, raspberries and cola. Drink with anything calling for a medium-bodied red wine.	null	85	13	California	Mendocino	Mendocino/Lake Counties	Merlot	Heron	null	null	null
Germany	Dusty mineral tones outshine slightly demure apple and pear flavors in this dry, delicately concentrated white. Crisp acidity leads a brisk but pristine finish. Drink now through 2018.	Trocken	86	12	Rheinhessen	null	null	Grauburgunder	Weinreich	Anna Lee C. Iijima	null	Weinreich 2014 Trocken Grauburgunder (Rheinhessen)
US	Not quite as good as the 2007 Les Collines from this producer, but perhaps it just needs more bottle age. Light spritz and flavors of berry punch, along with not-yet-integrated barrel toast. Give it another year to fill out.	Les Collines Vineyard	86	22	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Zinfandel	Angel Vine	null	null	null
US	A solid everyday Merlot that offers plenty of ripe berry, cherry and smoky oak flavors now. Dry and tannic, it has enough stuffing and class to pair with a nice steak.	null	85	20	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Merlot	Simi	null	null	null

Italy

From the area of Chianti that falls within the Province of Siena (as opposed to Florence) this easy red wine is characterized by red fruit, cassis, almond skin and blue flower.

Terra di Siena

86

null

Tuscany

Chianti Colli Senesi

null

Sangiovese

Tenuta di Trecciano

null

Italy

Aromas of graphite, underbrush, toasted oak and dark berry lead the nose. The structured palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry, anise, grilled sage and espresso alongside bracing, grippy tannins. Drink 2016–2026.

Colledilà Gran Selezione

89

66

Tuscany

Chianti Classico

null

Sangiovese

Barone Ricasoli

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Barone Ricasoli 2011 Colledilà Gran Selezione (Chianti Classico)

Argentina

Value-level Chardonnay has never really been Argentina's strong suit, but this fuller-bodied version is pretty good. It starts with citrus, orange peel and some dusty scents, which are backed by melon, apple and citrus flavors. It finishes with some pithy bitterness but overall it's nice for Mendoza Chardonnay.

null

86

12

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Chardonnay

Septima

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Septima 2006 Chardonnay (Mendoza)

US

Tannic and chewy, this is simple, sturdy and solidly in the herbal camp. Flavors are short and the finish leans into veggies.

null

81

10

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Hoodsport

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Hoodsport 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA))

Chile

This is a stately Cabernet housing classic Chilean aromas of spicy, berry fruits mixed with earth notes. It's supremely fresh on the palate, with layers of briar fruit and integrated oak. Baked berry, hard spice and exotic chocolate flavors end toasty and warm, but lively and complex. Drink through 2024.

null

93

76

Maipo Valley

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Enclave

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Enclave 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley)

France

The Domaines Ott Chateau de Selle is a breed apart, with little of the effusive red fruit that we typically associate with Provence Rosés. The 2008 shows vanilla and butterscotch aromas that lead to a serious, medium-weight palate with good flavor intensity. Winds up on a lingering note of newly-mown hay. Drink now.

Château de Selle

88

42

Provence

Côtes de Provence

null

Rosé

Domaines Ott

null

US

Dry and balanced, just 25% of this went through malolactic, it shows crisp apple, pear and citrus brightened with punchy acids. Just a hint of oak from aging in 25% new barrels.

null

88

12

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Chardonnay

Waterbrook

null

Italy

This is a thick and enduring blend of Trebbiano (70%) and Grechetto (30%) that rests in the lees and sees contact with oak for a creamy, thick and luscious impact. The wine's aromas include sweet peach and honeysuckle.

Torre di Giano Vigna il Pino

88

32

Central Italy

Torgiano

null

White Blend

Lungarotti

null

Italy

Very fresh and easy-going, this cheerful sparkling Prosecco is a perfect choice for afternoon sips by the pool or in the garden. Citrus, lime, white flower and nectarine open the bouquet.

Cuvée Beatrice

86

null

Veneto

Prosecco

null

Glera

Cà Furlan

null

Cà Furlan NV Cuvée Beatrice (Prosecco)

France

This is a generous, ripe wine, full of red fruits and soft acidity. It's already enjoyable, but will benefit from aging until 2015 to bring out the refreshing fruitiness even more.

null

88

22

Beaujolais

Beaujolais-Villages

null

Gamay

Château de Corcelles

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Château de Corcelles 2012 Beaujolais-Villages

France

Shows its Right Bank roots in Merlot and Cab Franc-derived red fruit and herb flavors: strawberry, tomato and rhubarb. Turns leathery and earthy, with some hints of toast on the finish.

null

83

15

Bordeaux

Montagne-Saint-Émilion

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Vieux Château Négrit

null

France

A deliciously dry wine, evoking flavors of crisp green-apple skins and white currants; this is elegant despite its weight and body. It has freshness, certainly, and needs some bottle age. The style is ripe, but the dryness gives some opening austerity.

Tsarine Premier Cru Brut

90

54

Champagne

null

Champagne Blend

Chanoine

null

France

91-93 Barrel sample. A immensely smooth, polished wine. The complement to this are the acidity, great fruit, making a modern, sophisticated wine.

Barrel sample

92

null

Bordeaux

Saint-Émilion

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château Jean-Faure

null

Spain

Blackberry, cassis, coffee and charred aromas make for a smoky, healthy, attractive bouquet. This is dense, deep, tannic and a bit rubbery and bouncy in feel. Tea, herb, chocolate and baked blackberry flavors end with cocoa and herbal, earthy notes. Drink this ripe gran reserva through 2023.

Imperial Gran Reserva

92

70

Northern Spain

Rioja

null

Tempranillo Blend

CVNE

null

France

A gentle lift of crushed black cherry rises from the glass. There also is an edge of medicinal herb. The body is light and juicy, fresh and highly aromatic. There is concentration without weight, luxuriant fruit without plumpness. This is fresh and pure, lifted and profound. An utterly honest and uplifting rendition of Pinot Noir.

Fronholz

92

59

Alsace

null

Pinot Noir

Domaine Ostertag

null

Italy

Mastroberardino's Radici (Italian for “roots”) is one of the best Fiano di Avellinos you can find. The wine is luminous and crisp with well-defined mineral notes that shade notes of citrus and stone fruit. Try it with fish or vegetarian foods.

Radici

88

30

Southern Italy

Fiano di Avellino

null

Fiano

Mastroberardino

null

US

A whiff of floral potpourri that persists from start to finish adds elegance to this full-bodied wine. The palate is expansive and rich, but finishes refreshingly tart with flavors of crisp green apple and lemon.

Famiglia

87

17

New York

North Fork of Long Island

Long Island

Chardonnay

Mattebella

Anna Lee C. Iijima

null

Mattebella 2009 Famiglia Chardonnay (North Fork of Long Island)

US

Once again, the Burgundian touch of Veronique Drouhin has crafted a wine of surpassing elegance and immaculate structure. This is the antithesis of a jammy, California style yet it retains much of the vibrancy of New World fruit rather than the suppressed rusticity of Burgundy. Delicate cherry and tart plum fruit is sculpted into a wine with nuanced details of cola and coffee and spice.

null

91

45

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Domaine Drouhin Oregon

null

Italy

This modern-style Dolcetto has plenty of dark, jammy fruit, a chunky crowd-pleasing personality and enough structure underneath to give it longevity and length. A pleasant if nontraditional take on Dolcetto.

Vigna Sorì Rocca

88

18

Piedmont

Dolcetto d'Alba

null

Dolcetto

Tenuta Rocca

null

Spain

Mature, classy and different than most, with earth, tobacco, warm fruit, baked notes and subtlety to the bouquet. The palate is whole, welcoming and full of baked plum, spice, molasses and leathery, and then it finish long and complex, but a little sweet and rooty. A winner from Mallorca for those seeking something different. Drink now.

Àn

91

55

Spanish Islands

Vi de la Terra Illes Balears

null

Red Blend

Ànima Negra

null

Portugal

Bright pink in color, this is a fresh wine with some citrus character that gives crispness. A sweeter side shows at the end and gives a soft aftertaste.

null

86

10

Tejo

null

Rosé

Quinta do Casal Branco

null

US

An awkward wine. Smells a little vegetal, and tastes weirdly sweet in raspberry and cherry syrup, with a cloying finish. Ready now.

Family Estate Vineyard Private Reserve

82

48

California

Santa Lucia Highlands

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Manzoni

null

South Africa

Blackberry and cassis dominate the bouquet, with notes of coffee, sweet spice and savory herb adding complexity. Balanced and well structured with a medium-weight mouth and solid tannins. Grilled black plum flavors carry though on the finish. Drink now.

null

87

32

Stellenbosch

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Hartenberg

null

Italy

Underbrush, spiced plum, vanilla and French oak are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied red. The dense palate offers dried black cherry, toast, coconut, licorice and oak-driven spice alongside round tannins. A walnut note closes the finish. Drink soon.

Vigna Basarin

88

null

Piedmont

Barbera d'Alba

null

Barbera

Luigi Voghera

null

US

Muscular, mouth-puckering tannins assert this wine's power. Tar, tobacco and generous baked blackberry and cherry flavors unfold in the glass, revealing a concentrated expression of mountain fruit.

Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard

88

null

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Krupp Brothers

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Krupp Brothers 2012 Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Italy

A blend of Tocai Friulano, Pinot Bianco, Sauvignon and Malvasia, this crisp, fresh wine has elegant, refreshing acidity, flavors of white currants and lychees and a soft, ripe aftertaste.

Blanc des Rosis

89

31

Northeastern Italy

Friuli Venezia Giulia

null

White Blend

Mario Schiopetto

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Mario Schiopetto 2001 Blanc des Rosis White (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

US

Feels instantly special in the mouth, with beautiful tannins that are soft and ripe but complex at the same time. They frame deep, flavors of blackberries, currants, tobacco, dark chocolate, violets, anise and cedar, firmed with minerals. Best 2010–2014.

Signature

94

52

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Chappellet

null

US

Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, this Tablas clone Syrah offers red and purple berry flavors that are deep and pure. Snappy and focused, it's layered with notes of smoke, dust, citrus, blood orange, baking spices and mineral. Beautiful indeed.

The Beautiful

94

60

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Syrah

K Vintners

null

US

Good, rich Zinfandel here, dry and slightly high in alcohol, with a blast of berry, cherry, cola and spice flavors. Enjoy it now with hearty meats or cheese-based, tomatoey veggie dishes.

Helen's Ridge Vineyard

87

34

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Zinfandel

Occidental Road Cellars

null

US

A blend of near-equal parts Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, this wine brings aromas of overripe pear and apple and toasted grapenuts that lead to dry, lightly fruit flavors. It's a straightforward quaffer.

Tell-Tale Super-Tuscan-Style

86

19

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

White Blend

Genoa

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Genoa 2014 Tell-Tale Super-Tuscan-Style White (Columbia Valley (WA))

Portugal

A sweet, raisin-flavored vintage Port with a hugely dark color. Despite the attractive fruit, the wine lacks real intensity of structure. True, there are firm tannins but they are not anchored to the fruit, which misses concentration.

Vintage

86

70

Port

null

Port

Barros

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Barros 2005 Vintage (Port)

France

This Roederer-owned property has produced an impressive wine this vintage. Full, plump and rich, and packed with firm black fruits which are layered with fine, pure acidity. This is a wine that is likely to age, over 5–10 years. Imported by Maisons Marques & Domaines USA.

null

91

39

Bordeaux

Saint-Estèphe

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château de Pez

null

Portugal

This rich blend brings together Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah with Touriga Nacional and Alicante Bouschet. It forms a richly textured wine that is ripe with red fruits and acidity, as well as spicy tannins. Light wood aging has smoothed out the corners of the wine. Drink from 2018.

Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Tinto

89

15

Alentejano

null

Portuguese Red

Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Casa Agricola Alexandre Relvas 2015 Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Tinto Red (Alentejano)

Australia

Aromas are of blackberry and earth. The best feature here is the wine's texture—it's nice and smooth, like river rocks, and the impression really sticks on the midpalate. Red fruit flavors hover underneath.

null

89

35

Victoria

Heathcote

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Downing Estate

null

US

Purple and plum in color, this delivers plummy fruit and graphite, or charcoal dust, in the tannins. It's bone dry and straightforward, clean and balanced.

null

87

28

Oregon

Oregon Other

Tempranillo

Obsidian

null

Australia

With 75% Shiraz, 22% Cabernet Franc and 3% Viognier, this wine stands out in a crowd. We get your expected plum and pepper notes from the Shiraz, but there are also elegant notes of cherry juice, pipe tobacco and tomato leaf along with a surprisingly firm acidity given the high level of ripeness. Tame tannins and leather notes come through on the finish. Drink now to 2013.

The Pretty Miss Shiraz-Cabernet Franc-Viognier

88

20

South Australia

Barossa

null

Red Blend

Creed of Barossa

null

Germany

This smells superripe—the fruit seems almost caramelized—but there's also a refreshing bright beam of citrus as well, bringing the sweetness into balance. At the moment, there's a bit of a disconnect between the honeyed flavors and crisp, lime-like acids, but these elements should come into better harmony over the next few years.

Abtsberg Spätlese

91

33

Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

null

Riesling

Maximin Grünhäuser

null

New Zealand

A savory style, one that focuses on woodsy, mushroomy, meaty complexity. If most New World Pinot Noirs are too fruity for your tastes, try this, as the the tannins are soft, the flavors complex. Drink now.

Falveys

85

28

Marlborough

null

Pinot Noir

Omaka Springs

null

US

This Lodi wine has a whirl of smoky, oaky flavors, plus a not entirely pleasant green tinge to its finish.

null

80

12

California

Lodi

Central Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Insatiable

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Insatiable 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (Lodi)

Italy

Linear and elegant, this bears dusty tones of granite and black fruit that accompany lingering background aromas of spice and tobacco. Dark and deeply extracted, the wine lasts long on the palate, expressing dark plum and cigar flavors along the way.

Raiano

91

38

Southern Italy

Taurasi

null

Aglianico

Villa Raiano

null

France

Crisp and clean, with lemon-lime fruit, a bit of stone and just a hint of licorice. It’s simple and straightforward, though it lacks complexity and elegance. It falls off and gets a bit hard and tough in the finish.

Brut

84

30

Champagne

null

Champagne Blend

Montaudon

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Montaudon NV Brut (Champagne)

US

This small-production, single-vineyard white hails from a site at the southern end of the appellation, close to Carneros. It shines in golden apple, honey graham cracker and a rich texture that impresses from start to finish. A floral element persists and intrigues, a mix of wildflower and fennel.

Ruhl Vineyard

93

38

California

Mount Veeder

Napa

Chardonnay

Grow Wines

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Grow Wines 2014 Ruhl Vineyard Chardonnay (Mount Veeder)

France

89-91 Barrel sample. A rounded wine, packed with rich fruits, feeling generous. The plum and damson juice flavors are dominant, ripe and powerful.

Barrel sample

90

null

Bordeaux

Margaux

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château d'Angludet

null

Portugal

Using a blend of grapes sourced from old vines, this is powerful, dense and very concentrated. At the same time, an elegance lightens the wine's weight and integrates all of its elements. This serious, structured offering should be aged for 4–5 years.

Reserva Field Blend

93

60

Douro

null

Portuguese Red

Quinta do Vallado

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Quinta do Vallado 2010 Reserva Field Blend Red (Douro)

Chile

Standard berry and cherry aromas are clean and round, while the palate is full and honest, with medium tannins and controlled acidity. For basic Merlot it's nice because there's sweetness, ripe fruit flavors, cola and juicy snap to the finish.

null

86

12

Colchagua Valley

null

Merlot

Calcu

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Calcu 2008 Merlot (Colchagua Valley)

US

A roughly equal blend of Tempranillo and Grenache, this appealing wine showcases pretty pomegranate and raspberry fruit. In the mouth the flavors turn a little candied, with a gumdrop character that thickens the finish.

Tradición

87

26

Oregon

Rogue Valley

Southern Oregon

Tempranillo-Garnacha

Jaxon

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Jaxon 2012 Tradición Tempranillo-Garnacha (Rogue Valley)

Spain

There's no shortage of power here. Forward berry aromas mixed with earth and leather ring true, while the palate is layered, broad, chewy and offers bright cherry and plum flavors. It dries out well on the finish, leaving tasty notes of pepper and herbs. From the Granada area.

Veleta

87

13

Andalucia

Vino de la Tierra Contraviesa Alpujarra

null

Tempranillo

Dominio Buenavista

null

US

A challenging name for a pretty good wine, given the frost and smoke issues so many North Coast producers faced in 2008, not to mention consumers' tendency to stay away from wines that might give them headaches. This 50% Petite Sirah-based blend (there's Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, too) is a sledgehammer of a wine, all savory leather and dark blue fruit, with a velvety structure that'll linger a long time.

O-Eight Headache!

87

33

California

Red Hills Lake County

Mendocino/Lake Counties

Red Blend

Chacewater

null

US

Fashion designer/vintner Richard Hirsh is aiming for the mass market with this approachable if slightly sweet blend. Its wide appeal is the result of sun-filled fruit, showing honey, baked apple, orange blossom and tropical notes on the nose. It's soft on the palate, with candied apple, brown sugar and lemongrass flavors.

Honey Pie

87

32

California

California Other

White Blend

Woodstock Collection

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Woodstock Collection NV Honey Pie White (California)

US

This is the kind of wine that goes with just about anything that goes with red. It's dry and completely balanced in acids and tannins, with a good mélange of cherries and mushroomy, earthy notes, and a silky, velvety mouthfeel. Really hard to find anything not to like.

null

88

16

California

Amador County

Sierra Foothills

Syrah

Sobon Estate

null

Spain

Nice, simple and still showing staying power for an '09. Tastes of white stone fruits and melon, and shows body and adequate acidity. Not the most citric or angular Verdejo; it's more round and easy. Finishes clean with no funk. Uncomplicated white wine for immediate consumption.

null

86

13

Northern Spain

Rueda

null

Verdejo

Ermita de Nieve

null

France

This wine takes white Châteauneuf-du-Pape to rare heights. Mouthwatering aromas of toasted nuts and pineapple set the stage for a full-bodied, rich, succulent wine experience whose finish lingers. Yet despite the wine's undeniable heft, it never seems overly weighty. Drink this blend of 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc over the next couple of years.

Château de Beaucastel

93

108

Rhône Valley

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

null

Rhône-style White Blend

Famille Perrin

null

US

Another fine vintage for this veteran Napa winery. Shows a classic Napa character, with ripe flavors of cassis and blackcurrants and finely-ground, complex but easy tannins. The oak, which contributes vanilla, smoke and woody spice, is strong, but not oppressive. Doesn't seem to be an ager, and best enjoyed soon.

Oroppas

90

50

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Red Blend

St. Clement

null

US

At first this profoundly compelling wine seems rather light, but as it pirouettes on a base of cherry and sassafras, it constantly shifts and sends up shafts of previously undetected flavors. Popcorn, saffron and just the faintest hint of barnyard emerge—suddenly it becomes a full-throttle cherry bomb that can best be described as yummy.

Freedom Hill Vineyard

94

48

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Elizabeth Chambers

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Elizabeth Chambers 2012 Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)

France

With some extra weight, this is a solid, red currant and berry driven wine. Its fruit is right up front, backed by a mineral acidity that cuts through the richness. It's definitely a food wine, and equally an impressive wine that needs to age for up to a year.

Château Romassan

92

46

Provence

Bandol

null

Rosé

Domaines Ott

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Domaines Ott 2012 Château Romassan Rosé (Bandol)

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

US

The Rusack family's entry-level Pinot Noir is a great taste of Santa Barbara County, with scents of red fruit, dark earth and cinnamon. The flavors are rich with spice and fruit, like a cherry compote spread on thin slices of warm toast.

null

90

30

California

Santa Barbara County

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Rusack

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Rusack 2012 Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County)

US

Maduro cigars, cedar, beef char and pipe ash highlight the nose on this blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot from a longtime producer. It's relatively lean and light on the palate, with black peppercorns and roasted pork elements. The Cab Franc shows strongly.

Proprietary

89

60

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Corley

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Corley 2011 Proprietary Red (Napa Valley)

New Zealand

Medium-sweet on the IRF scale, this light- to medium-bodied Riesling displays classic scents of petrichor, green apple and lime. Shows decent length and hints of petrol on the finish.

null

88

23

Central Otago

null

Riesling

Carrick

null

US

Pretty in jasmine, lemon and orange, this is a crisp, dry and lovely wine, integrated with just enough heft on the body and a surprisingly deft length on the finish. Stock up for gatherings.

Grenache

91

18

California

North Coast

Rosé

Kokomo

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Kokomo 2015 Grenache Rosé (North Coast)

New Zealand

Grapefruit and melon are the predominant aromas and flavors, with a few sprigs of minty green herbs tossed over the top. Finishes with a bitter pith note that seems a little out of place in this otherwise harmonious offering.

Longlands

85

12

Hawke's Bay

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Te Awa Farm

null

Argentina

Warm woodsy berry and prune aromas blend with notes of animal fur and mint. This is full and grabby, but not out of shape. Flavors of raisin and blackberry feature accents of charred oak and creosote, while this ends with roasted, blackened, meaty flavors, mild heat and sticky tannins. Drink through 2021.

Synthesis

90

35

Mendoza Province

Tupungato

null

Malbec

Finca Sophenia

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Finca Sophenia 2014 Synthesis Malbec (Tupungato)

South Africa

A stony, flinty character leads the nose of this blend of 54% Sauvignon Blanc and 46% Sémillon, followed by scents of ripe peach, nectarine, freshly dried grass and herbs. The medium-weight palate offers more clean fruit flavors that result in a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel. Ample acidity lends freshness to the finish, alongside a lingering yellow flower character. Drink now–2019.

Reserve

90

40

Coastal Region

null

White Blend

Delaire Graff

Lauren Buzzeo

@laurbuzz

Delaire Graff 2013 Reserve White (Coastal Region)

Portugal

A very soft, open style of wine. It has ripe white pear and spice flavors, but everything is muted. It is clean, fresh, with some lemon flavors just creeping in finally.

Segada Branco

83

9

Estremadura

null

Fernão Pires

DFJ Vinhos

Roger Voss

@vossroger

DFJ Vinhos 2008 Segada Branco Fernão Pires (Estremadura)

Portugal

This powerful, ripe wine is a delicious testament to the structured qualities of the Alicante Bouschet. It is rich and dense, with juicy blackberry flavors and dark tannins. With the wood aging smoothing out the wrinkles, the wine is impressive. Drink from 2017.

Premium

91

28

Tejo

null

Alicante Bouschet

Fiuza

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Fiuza 2014 Premium Alicante Bouschet (Tejo)

France

Beautifully aromatic notes of ripe citrus peel rise from the glass—think tangerine and juicy clementine. These flavors become more zesty on the full-flavored, concentrated but linear palate. This is not overtly aromatic as Muscat would usually suggest but more concentrated, more serious, with an alluring citrus-scented core that promises beautiful development over the years. There is great balance, lasting length and beautiful poise. Drink 2017–2025.

Kirchberg de Ribeauville Grand Cru

94

33

Alsace

null

Muscat

Kuentz-Bas

Anne Krebiehl MW

@AnneInVino

Kuentz-Bas 2015 Kirchberg de Ribeauville Grand Cru Muscat (Alsace)

Greece

Agiorgitiko, famed in Nemea and popular for its soft, fragrant red berry character, is represented well in this balanced, flavorful wine. A nose of wooded spice, pepper and Mediterranean herbs is followed by waves of soft tannis, red fruit, spice and a touch of smoke. Pair with steak or a meat stew.

Réserve

87

16

Nemea

null

Agiorgitiko

Tsantali

null

Austria

Poised, ripe wine that revels in its richness allied to a tight texture of apples skins, white currants and juicy acidity. An edge of pepper gives extra interest and brings out the dry nature of the wine.

Mandel-Höh

91

null

Thermenregion

null

Zierfandler

Stadlmann

null

US

This has a pungent dustiness that's pleasing, rounded out by ripe, tart fruit like pomegranate. It's well-integrated, soft and smooth. The herbal notes should pair well with herb-rubbed roasted chicken.

Pauli Ranch

88

38

California

Redwood Valley

Mendocino/Lake Counties

Barbera

Muscardini

null

Australia

This dark, rich, earthy wine is notable for its ultrasoft but pleasing tannins. The fruit veers toward plum and blackberry, but it's not superfruity—rather, it's more restrained, with notes of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It turns a little thin on the finish, although there's plenty of spice. Best Buy.

null

86

8

Australia Other

South Eastern Australia

null

Shiraz

McPherson Wine Company

null

US

Easy-drinking wine here, with lemon-custard flavors and textures. Mothing complicated, and it finishes with a nice, spicy aftertaste. At this price, it's a pretty good value.

null

84

12

California

Santa Barbara County

Central Coast

Sauvignon Blanc

Bridlewood

null

Italy

Here's a very pretty white wine from Sicily (made with Grillo grapes) that opens with creamy, light nuances of almond blossom, stone fruit and citrus. Pair this wine with steamed white fish.

Kados Risignolo

87

null

Sicily & Sardinia

Sicilia

null

Grillo

Duca di Salaparuta

null

Duca di Salaparuta 2009 Kados Risignolo Grillo (Sicilia)

US

The majority Cab Sauvignon in the blend brings classic blackberry and cassis flavors, as well as firm tannins. The flavors are complex and interesting, and change as they breathe in the glass. Should develop additional bottle complexity over the years, although it's ready to drink now.

Estate

93

75

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Sodaro

null

Sodaro 2008 Estate Red (Napa Valley)

US

Right away this appealing wines bursts out with scents of chocolate and vanilla—the barrels used were Hungarian and American oak. The fruit is ripe with plum and cassis, the wine still tight and the tannins still chewy and hard. But the pleasing aromas promise a good life ahead.

Birch Creek Vineyards

89

30

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Mannina Cellars

null

US

Almost as yellow as a white wine with just a tiny touch of blush coloring, this blend of 60% Counoise and 40% Cinsault shows lychee, ripe pears, watermelon juice, lemon juice and a touch of orange rind on the nose. The flavors are very light, so it's more about texture, with lime juice acidity and pear skin grip.

La Rosa

87

20

California

Santa Ynez Valley

Central Coast

Rosé

Martellotto

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Martellotto 2014 La Rosa Rosé (Santa Ynez Valley)

Italy

This is a beautiful Sauvignon Blanc that has the aromatic intensity and crispness expected from the best expressions of the variety. Background tones of citrus, herb and spicy ginger add personality and overall momentum.

Giovanelli

91

44

Northeastern Italy

Alto Adige

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro

null

Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro 2009 Giovanelli Sauvignon Blanc (Alto Adige)

US

This aromatic wine suggests a bowl of fruit, with notes of blueberries and blackberries sprinkled with herbs. The palate is tart and supple, showing good concentration of flavor.

null

89

35

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Syrah

Swiftwater Cellars

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Swiftwater Cellars 2014 Syrah (Columbia Valley (WA))

US

Milk chocolate flavors are wrapped around blueberry fruit; this is attractive and fresh, with a smooth center. It lacks a little concentration on the back end, but it's ready to drink right now.

null

87

30

Washington

Red Mountain

Columbia Valley

Syrah

Saviah

null

US

Lovely structure amplifies all the best qualities of this estate-grown wine. A tight core of pear, lemon and tangerine fruit sets up a long finish. The acidity is clean and in perfect proportion, with no chalkiness. Drink now through 2027.

Clos du Soleil Vineyard

93

75

Oregon

Dundee Hills

Willamette Valley

Chardonnay

Domaine Serene

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Domaine Serene 2015 Clos du Soleil Vineyard Chardonnay (Dundee Hills)

Italy

Aromas of exotic spice, incense and aromatic herb lead the way. On the racy palate, hints of dark spice and cranberry add interest to the wild cherry core while vibrant acidity and supple tannins make it fresh and easy drinking.

null

87

33

Tuscany

Rosso di Montalcino

null

Sangiovese

Le Macioche

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Le Macioche 2013 Rosso di Montalcino

US

Here is a well-focused wine with appealing toastiness as soon as it's opened. Fruit flavors are still tight, but unfold into tangy raspberry. It spent 18 months in half new French oak, to good effect.

Roads End Estate Vineyard

88

45

Oregon

Willamette Valley

null

Pinot Noir

Carlton Cellars

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Carlton Cellars 2011 Roads End Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir

US

A heavy, dense Pinot that, despite considerable cherry, raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate fruit richness, feels a bit inert on the palate. Drink now.

null

85

28

California

Sonoma Coast

Sonoma

Pinot Noir

Verve

null

South Africa

Clean, minerally, but with a spin of spice, the nose on this Chenin suggests fun. On the palate, a good balance of acid and body showcases the wine's citrus and honey flavors. Over all, a great everyday white.

Cape White

86

10

Coastal Region

null

Chenin Blanc

The Yellow Cellar

null

US

This is Coppola's best 2011 Pinot Noir, out of several produced under different brand names. It has a stylish mouthfeel of silk and satin that's pure Pinot. Meanwhile, the flavors are lush, suggesting oak-influenced raspberries.

Kylah's Vineyard Reserve

90

38

California

California Other

Pinot Noir

Francis Coppola

null

Francis Coppola 2011 Kylah's Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir (California)

US

This unoaked wine smells like melons and pears, and tastes even more crisp and lively, like green apples and lemons. There's a touch of buttery richness in both the aroma and the flavor, and it's well balanced out by bright acidity.

Vista Luna Vineyard

87

28

California

Lodi

Central Valley

Albariño

En Garde

null

Spain

Fresh peach and nectarine dominate the nose on this semisweet blend of Viura and Malvasia. The flavors are mostly melon and citrus, while the finishing touch is that of fruit cocktail. It's a touch sticky in the long run, but at least it isn't cloying or cooked.

Satinela Medium-Sweet

84

9

Northern Spain

Rioja

null

White Blend

Marqués de Cáceres

null

Germany

Nearly dry in style, this wine starts off with primary fruit aromas of ripe apples, slightly underripe peaches and a touch of grapefruit, then delivers stonier, more minerally flavors on the palate. Imported by Chapin Cellars, LLC.

Ayler Kupp Spätlese Feinherb

88

19

Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

null

Riesling

Rudolf Eilenz

Joe Czerwinski

@JoeCz

Rudolf Eilenz 2006 Ayler Kupp Spätlese Feinherb Riesling (Mosel-Saar-Ruwer)

Italy

An exciting achievement, this select cru throbs with powerful intensity and complexity awarding a long list of adjectives to describe its aromatic qualities: black cherry and cherry liquor, leather, cola, milk chocolate and almond. Berry and bramble flavors make the mouthfeel lively and sophisticated and are a delicate segue into chewy-tart tannins and a spice driven finale.

Terre di Cariano

93

null

Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

null

Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara

Cecilia Beretta

null

Spain

A different breed of blended wine, with earthy aromas of dried cheese, leather, dill and vanilla. The palate is tight and mildly tannic, with sweet cola, roasted berry and earthy tobacco flavors. Not your normal bulky, dark wine; it's complex and based on 85% Garnacha and Carignan.

Masia Carreras

89

42

Northern Spain

Empordà

null

Red Blend

Martí Fabra

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Martí Fabra 2005 Masia Carreras Red (Empordà)

Australia

Intense and focused, this good value Coonawarra opens with notes of leather and polished wood overlaid with red-berry fruit. Tannins are smooth, but there's plenty of lip-smacking acidity to keep the cherry cordial and plum fruit flavors lively. Drink now. Imported by Freixenet USA.

null

88

14

South Australia

Coonawarra

null

Shiraz

Nick Faldo

null

Nick Faldo 2005 Shiraz (Coonawarra)

Portugal

The second wine of the Bruno Prats and Symington family joint venture, this is a deliciously fruity wine, but with a fine elegant backbone of light tannins and smoky wood. As befits a second wine in the Bordeaux tradition, this is ready to drink.

Post Scriptum de Chryseia

89

24

Douro

null

Portuguese Red

Prats & Symington LDA

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Prats & Symington LDA 2007 Post Scriptum de Chryseia Red (Douro)

France

This is a finely balanced wine, combining an herbaceous flavor with apricot and sweet pear. The whole is a delicious wine that brings together notes of toast and fresh fruit, with a firm, dry structure. For long-term aging.

null

94

null

Bordeaux

Pessac-Léognan

null

Bordeaux-style White Blend

Château Pape Clément

null

US

Light and clean, this is a gentle take on Pinot Noir, comparable to a modest Bourgogne from a big shipper such as Bouchard. The alcohol rests comfortably at 13.5%, and the wine is done in a fruit-forward, drink-now style that fits the price point.

Oregon

87

20

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Erath

null

US

The blend is roughly two thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one third Merlot, the color is dark and rich, and the nose inviting. Spice and tobacco, vanilla and moist earth surround black cherry fruit, with tart and lightly drying tannins. Not a big wine, but well-crafted, smooth and supple.

Whistle Stop

86

10

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Merlot

Snoqualmie

null

France

. From a small south-facing parcel next to the Clos du Papillon vineyard, this is a hugely rich wine, maybe excessively so. It comes from the hot 2003 vintage, and the grapes were obviously superripe. It's round, full-bodied, with ripe quince and white fig flavors. Is there minerality there? It's hard to find, just revel in its opulence. Screwcap.

Trie Spéciale

91

38

Loire Valley

Savennières

null

Chenin Blanc

Domaine des Baumard

null

US

Inky black in hue, this wine is enormously tannic, which gives it a mouth-numbing astringency. Along with the structure, it has a gigantic, sweet-tasting core of blackberry jam and currant flavors, which breaks through the bitterness. Everything suggests ageability; it should mellow after 2015.

Karren Vineyard

89

30

California

Sonoma Mountain

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wellington

null

Wellington 2007 Karren Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma Mountain)

US

A pretty good Merlot for the price. It's dry and velvety, with ripe flavors of cherries, raspberries and cola. Drink with anything calling for a medium-bodied red wine.

null

85

13

California

Mendocino

Mendocino/Lake Counties

Merlot

Heron

null

Germany

Dusty mineral tones outshine slightly demure apple and pear flavors in this dry, delicately concentrated white. Crisp acidity leads a brisk but pristine finish. Drink now through 2018.

Trocken

86

12

Rheinhessen

null

Grauburgunder

Weinreich

Anna Lee C. Iijima

null

Weinreich 2014 Trocken Grauburgunder (Rheinhessen)

US

Not quite as good as the 2007 Les Collines from this producer, but perhaps it just needs more bottle age. Light spritz and flavors of berry punch, along with not-yet-integrated barrel toast. Give it another year to fill out.

Les Collines Vineyard

86

22

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Zinfandel

Angel Vine

null

US

A solid everyday Merlot that offers plenty of ripe berry, cherry and smoky oak flavors now. Dry and tannic, it has enough stuffing and class to pair with a nice steak.

null

85

20

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Merlot

Simi

null