GroNLP/ik-nlp-22_winemag · Datasets at Hugging Face

index int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 8 values	description stringlengths 34 829	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 3.3k	province stringclasses 21 values	variety stringlengths 4 26
64,723	US	Lots of black rocks and turned earth gives depth to the dark black-cherry core elements on the nose of this blend of 55% Syrah and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dried cherries, asphalt, espresso bean and chopped herbs arise on the palate.	89	40	California	Red Blend
60,108	US	This showy wine has maple syrup aromas, extremely ripe and almost unctuous flavors, lots of spicy oak influence and full body. While it offers a lot of flash, it also has lots of substance underneath. A velvety, grippy texture owes a lot to layered tannins, and a base note of ripe berries carries through the finish.	89	26	California	Zinfandel
29,974	US	A sound, everyday Merlot. It has ripe blackberry, cherry, currant and cola flavors, and feels smooth and rich in the mouth. Great job at this price.	85	10	California	Merlot
123,277	Germany	A bit of an anomaly for this fine Ruwer estate, where being merely good is a disappointment. It starts off with attractive stone and ripe apple notes, but seems somewhat acetic on the palate—there's an intrusive pickle-like note.	85	35	Mosel	Riesling
33,784	Spain	Ripe, spicy berry aromas are a touch reduced. This warm-vintage reserva feels jammy and wide, with rugged, pulling tannins. Peppery dark-fruit flavors turn more savory on a tannic, rocky finish. Drink through 2022.	90	30	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
83,203	Italy	Enticing scents of red berry, crushed rose petal and wild herb take center stage. Round and savory, the palate offers juicy black cherry, licorice and tobacco framed in polished tannins and fresh acidity. It won't need years to come around but it will also stand up to midterm aging. Drink 2019–2028.	91	37	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
64,700	US	A brisk Syrah, dry and tart, with some notable tannins. It's so rich and sweet in blackberries, beef jerky, carob and spices, you can forgive a few faults, such as excessive acidity.	87	16	California	Syrah
64,973	US	Canned pears and plumeria show on the nose of this bargain-priced offering, worthy of a weeknight dinner or later in the evening. The palate shows lots of ripe stone fruit, apple syrup and tangy citrus, the finish delivering a lasting acidity.	85	10	California	Chardonnay
89,468	Italy	Firmly structured but elegant, this offers aromas of blue flower, tobacco, tilled earth, black fruit and a balsamic note. The vibrant palate boasts wonderful intensity, weaving notes of white pepper, baking spice, savory herb, licorice and mineral around a black cherry core. It's young and austere but impeccably balanced with firm acidity and assertive but fine-grained tannins. Give it time to unwind and develop complexity. Drink 2018–2030.	95	115	Tuscany	Sangiovese
14,336	Italy	Mature berry, black plum, truffle and dark spice aromas take center stage. The chewy palate doles out crushed raspberry, tart cherry, licorice and clove flavors. This is fresh and balanced with firm, refined tannins. Drink 2018–2026.	92	50	Tuscany	Sangiovese
72,989	US	Blackberry, strong leather, black pepper and hints of purple flowers make this fruity wine quite approachable on the nose. There's a mix of fresh blackberries and blackberry jam on the palate with hints of thyme, juniper spice and black pepper adding intrigue to the otherwise fruit-forward sip.	89	15	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
765	US	Ripe enough in blackberries, currants and mocha, with an earthy, tobacco herbaceousness. The tannins are potent, making the wine hard. Drink now, after a good decanting.	87	32	California	Red Blend
40,840	France	The name of the wine says a lot about its structure. It definitely has a mineral tang to it although the ripe yellow fruits do give it a soft cushion. The acidity however makes it crisp, refreshing and ready to drink.	87	15	Burgundy	Chardonnay
63,123	US	Continues a string of successful bottlings of this Cabernet. The flavors are strong but subtle, suggesting blackberries and black currants, with earthier notes of dark chocolate and roasted almonds. Very good, but also pretty tannic. You'll want to cellar this for 5–6 years to let it mellow.	91	55	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
101,996	US	Too sweet, soft and simple in cherry-cola flavors, this Syrah would benefit from more dryness and greater structure. It turns Porty on the finish. Drink now.	84	27	California	Syrah
98,205	France	Full in the mouth, this is a ripe, currant- and gooseberry-flavored wine. It has a bright, forward, fruity feel that makes it delicious to drink. Very refreshing in character. Screwcap.	86	10	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style White Blend
56,861	US	Very fruity and rather soft in texture, this wine has a sense of sweetness from the buttery, grape aromas to the ripe, almost jammy flavors and gentle finish.	86	14	California	Pinot Noir
9,048	Germany	Initial aromas of savory spice and earth subside, revealing luscious apricot, peach and yellow-cherry flavors on this delicate Riesling. Semi-sweet in style, it's nuanced with shades of dusty minerals and a pretty floral spray that lingers on the finish.	91	75	Mosel	Riesling
67,893	Spain	A little bit round given that it's a blanc de blancs, with applesauce and spice on the nose. The palate deals a white-fruit mélange that's one part tangy and one part generous. Holds steady on the finish and doesn't show any warts or faults. Nice Cava with an elevated persona.	88	16	Catalonia	Sparkling Blend
71,944	France	The nose just hints at earth and autumnal oak leaf. The palate comes with slight grip, very fine tannins and more earthy leafy aromas. Red-cherry fruit is just hinted at. This is slender and bone dry and will come into its own when served with subtle mushroom or game dishes.	89	27	Alsace	Pinot Noir
1,030	US	There's a substantial earthiness to this Chardonnay, grown in a relatively cool estate vineyard. Vibrant on the palate in ripe apple and lemon, it offers medium weight and body, with a crispness to the finish and a food-friendly nature.	88	60	California	Chardonnay
35,280	France	The wine is hard, tough and dense. Its tannins are solid, dominant, extracted and cover any fruit. It is likely to remain dry.	84	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
87,040	US	A tarry, asphalt character shows on this bottling of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, as well as oregano and dark but slightly sour berries. The palate offers charred cherries and charcoal notes, yet the mouthfeel and structure are relatively light.	86	55	California	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
66,018	US	A light golden hue, this richly aromatic wine offers notes of toasty barrel spices, apricot and dried mango. It's full bodied, almost unctuous in feel, with abundant, sweet stone-fruit flavors and a lingering finish.	90	28	Washington	Chardonnay
59,694	US	Named for his sons Hunter and Ryder, this is part of Guy Fieri's small wine project based in Sonoma County. The partnership with Winemaker Guy Davis of Davis Family Vineyards sources from three old-vine sites, including Doug Rafanelli's, to make a balanced wine marked by savory black olive, black pepper and a strong current of Italian deli aromas and flavors. Pillowy tannin and a shot of tobacco add nicely to the whole.	92	40	California	Zinfandel
8,672	France	The wine is ripe and soft, with a style that is more towards tropical fruits. So apricots, ripe pears are cut with crisp acidity. The wine is tangy at the end with orange zest flavors. Drink from 2017.	88	24	Loire Valley	Sauvignon Blanc
76,574	US	Dry, tart and balanced, it has keen acidity highlighting complex flavors of pomegranates, persimmons, cherries and sandalwood, with the earthy, plummy sweetness of mu shu sauce. This wine gets better and better as it breathes in the glass. It's hard to keep from opening it now, but it will benefit from aging; best after 2018.	95	75	California	Pinot Noir
94,161	Italy	Blue flower, plum, leather and underbrush aromas come together in the glass. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove, tobacco and aniseed alongside velvety tannins. A black pepper note signals the close. Drink through 2018.	92	35	Tuscany	Sangiovese
715	Argentina	Sweet oak and vanilla aromas are front and center on a jammy bouquet that also features black plum and blackberry scents. This blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Tannat feels full, lifted and balanced. Ripe, enticing flavors of wild berry and cassis are backed by toast, chocolate, vanilla and coconut notes as well as heat and burn. Drink through 2019.	91	28	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
88,871	US	Cabernets just don't get much richer, riper or deeper than this single-vineyard beauty. Dry, tannic and fine in acidity, it's a full-frontal assault of blackberries, cassis liqueur and new oak, concentrated beyond belief. The sheer magnitude demands time in the cellar. Try after 2015, and it could go far beyond that.	94	85	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
23,487	France	The nose is shy and does not give much away. On the palate, beautifully pure red currant and tart red-cherry notes come through. The slender body is pervaded by freshness and has lovely overtones of conifer and oak leaf. It is later on that the fine but firm structure comes to bear. This is light but has depth and the potential to develop.	90	25	Alsace	Pinot Noir
126,125	US	Bright in acidity, which gives it a mouthwatering vitality. It's also a little ripe with Meyer lemon fruit. The result is sweet-and-sour, with the finish turning sugary.	84	22	California	Chardonnay
72,421	Argentina	Orange blossom and other common white fruit aromas make for a standard, generic type of bouquet. The palate is regular in feel and weight, with shy flavors of melon and apple. Entirely middle of the road in aromas, body, feel and flavors.	84	15	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
60,115	US	A hint of rose petal perfumes white peach and grapefruit on this elegant off-dry Riesling. The midpalate is softened by a burst of luscious apricot, while a zesty steak of lime balances a long, meandering finish.	89	18	New York	Riesling
118,047	Argentina	Hay and green apple aromas are about all that you can extract from the nose. It feels top heavy and awkward, with mealy citrus and maderized apple flavors. The finish is full, fruity and baked. Drink now.	81	8	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
75,726	US	A hint of spice peppers this rich, lusciously bodied Chardonnay full of ripe apple and lemon flavor. It's creamy and clingy in mouthfeel, but balanced elegantly by sharp lemon and lime tones that brighten the midpalate.	89	18	New York	Chardonnay
76,091	Italy	Filippone is a 50-50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot that is layered tight with aromas of wild berries, blue flower, plush cherry, moist earth and a touch of playful spice. The structure is firm without being hard and the wine would pair with pasta or meat.	92	40	Tuscany	Red Blend
33,397	US	Fresh-picked Bing cherry delights on the initial entry into this silky Pinot, sourced from a long-famous site in the heart of the Russian River. Medium-bodied and nicely structured, it offers ample concentration around a core of elegance, with a lingering finish of vibrant cherry. Enjoy through 2022.	95	79	California	Pinot Noir
34,943	US	This racy and leesy young wine offers fresh and crisp flavors of cucumber, celery, jicama and green apple. Despite all the green components, it is not herbal or vegetal, and offers a precise, delicately crafted and ageworthy take on the grape.	91	21	Oregon	Pinot Gris
124,311	France	Only produced in the best years, such as 2002, this is a 60-40 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Grand Cru vineyards. This intense wine is well-balanced and packed with fruit tones, yet seems to be just approaching maturity. It is full, generous and tightly textured. Drink now and until 2025.	93	100	Champagne	Champagne Blend
128,853	France	This second wine of Château Durfort-Vivens is ripe, firm and well structured. Beautiful ripe black currant and berry fruits are cut with intense acidity. From the great 2010 vintage, it is solid, dense and full of fruitiness as well as tannins. It still does need to age, so drink from 2017.	92	40	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
82,093	US	This bottling shows the sweeter side of the Chardonnay, offering honeydew, lemon blossom and pear cider notes on the nose. The acidity is powerful upon first taste, yielding to peach, nectarine and ripe apple flavors, which come across as confected after a couple of sips.	85	18	California	Chardonnay
116,513	US	Bright, clean flavors of cranberry and strawberry make this dry rosé easy on the palate and the wallet. There's a fruity kick on the nose followed by a dry but flavorful wave of flavors that seem perfect for a picnic or summertime sip under flapping sails. Pair this with seafood or poultry or experiment a little—its refreshing, crisp quality will play well with most foods.	87	15	New York	Rosé
17,302	France	From this rich vintage comes this delicious, open wine. Flavors of tropical fruit and peach create an opulent and generous feel, with notes from having aged in wood offering complexity. It's concentrated and ageworthy, worth keeping for 4–5 years and more.	93	70	Burgundy	Chardonnay
45,436	US	This Chardonnay offers nothing but deliciousness, and doesn't apologize for any lack of subtlety. It's as rich as a dessert pastry, with pineapple and orange pie, buttered croissant and vanilla flavors. Brisk acidity makes it all shiny and bright. It's arguably one of the best Napa Valley Chardonnays out there.	91	50	California	Chardonnay
81,080	US	The aromas of pear and herb seem a bit overripe. The flavors are dry and seem a bit diluted.	84	18	Washington	Sauvignon Blanc
32,601	US	There are complicated aromas and flavors to this blend from Santa Barbara County pioneer Rick Longoria. It starts with scents of wet dog, pine, pipe tobacco and peppercorns. The flavors recall gamy meat, like roasted lamb, with hints of stewed plum as well. Those who don't like constantly analyzing each sip may find this wine challenging.	87	30	California	Red Blend
111,527	France	There is a touch of bitterness in this wine, giving it an edgy character. There is plenty of fruitiness with notes of apple skin and lemon flavors that are bright and fresh. It needs a few months in bottle to fully integrate.	85	18	Alsace	Sparkling Blend
30,972	Australia	An intriguing wine, this boasts herbal-, tobacco- and truffle-laced aromatics backed by a modicum of cassis fruit and a wonderfully soft, creamy, supple texture. The flavors also veer dangerously close to vegetal, so if you insist on no green notes in your Cab, search somewhere else.	87	25	South Australia	Cabernet Sauvignon
71,057	US	Cultivated from a single vine many years ago that the then-vineyard manager believed was special, Husch's Vine One Chard is a soft, exotic wine. It combines smoky-sweet oak notes with baked apple, pear and quince flavors that finish dry and spicy.	86	18	California	Chardonnay
105,061	France	The fruitiness in this tight wine is still developing, hiding for now behind a bitter, toasty character. That should soften as the wine fills out—from 2018.	87	50	Burgundy	Chardonnay
73,289	US	Oaky-sweet and simple, with jammy pineapple, tropical fruit and honey flavors. The best thing is brisk acidity and a clean finish.	84	15	California	Chardonnay
13,513	Italy	Rasula shows ripe aromas of blackberry and prune with lingering tones of spice and leather in the background. It's a simple value wine with a chewy, rich mouthfeel.	85	12	Sicily & Sardinia	Cabernet Sauvignon
71,422	France	The 20% Malbec in the blend helps to produce the spicy tannins and dark color of this wine. The other grapes in the blend add richness and firm structure, plus a blackberry-driven juiciness. With its bright acidity added to the mix, this is a serious wine with good aging potential.	89	19	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
72,202	Italy	Tropical fruit, pineapple and white stone fruit lead the nose alongside a vegetal note. The palate offers white peach and green apple, with racy acidity and brisk bubbles that leave a sharp finish.	86	16	Veneto	Glera
117,329	US	Hard-edged tannins are the star on this wine now, but it does show an enormous heart of blackberries and black currants. Will it age? It is Howell Mountain, so the answer is, probably yes. Drink 2018–2020.	89	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
82,170	US	Beguiling streaks of red cherry surround a light, spicy, food-friendly core that's well balanced and integrated, the oak and tannin elegantly respectful of the red fruit. It offers medium weight amid the smoothness.	90	27	California	Pinot Noir
60,077	France	Although initially the acidity seems high, the fruit and the texture give the Dourthe wine balance. With a touch of spice, the wine is food friendly and ready to drink.	86	13	Bordeaux	Rosé
120,657	Spain	Dusty and plump up front, with a hint of melon. The palate is round and easygoing, with moderate acidity supporting baked apple and melon flavors. On the finish it's pithy and slightly bitter, but for the most part it holds onto its form and freshness.	86	15	Northern Spain	Chardonnay
88,124	US	Mandarin-orange zest, cut Asian pear, lemon blossom and slight beeswax show on the fresh nose of this bottling by young winemaker Mike Callahan. It's extremely dry on the palate, like licking limestone, with hints of nectarine blossom and lemon-skin flavor.	90	22	California	Riesling
11,310	France	The wine is dry and structured with firm tannins that are masking the fruit. It is a concentrated wine, firm and dense. Let this wine develop and wait to drink until 2019.	87	13	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
39,289	US	Pretty much as good as Napa Cabernet gets. Shows the blackberries, black currants, blueberries and spicy plums of Oakville and scads of spices, and the tannin-acid structure is, in a word, superb. The oak elaboration is just about perfect, adding a tasteful layer of smoky, buttered toast. The finish goes on and on.	98	75	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
127,236	Italy	This offers aromas of mature plum, berry, toasted oak and coffee. The straightforward palate offers roasted coffee beans, espresso, dried black cherry and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins. The fruit is starting to dry up, so drink soon.	87	18	Piedmont	Barbera
114,099	Italy	Tocai Friulano and Ribolla Gialla give this wine attractive floral aromas and full flavors of tropical fruits (lychees?), while the Sauvignon Blanc in the blend provides grapefruity notes that perfectly balance the effusiveness of the other varieties.	88	42	Northeastern Italy	White Blend
39,281	US	Pronounced Kay-lee, this Syrah is unabashedly funky. If you like a wine with generous aromas of barnyard and garden, along with potent, ripe, berry-laden fruit, this delivers in spades. Barrel aging adds chocolate and dark espresso character to the finish.	91	39	Washington	Syrah
15,456	US	Named after Bill Foley's jingle-writing mother , this wine sings, starting with the starry shine in the glass. Aromas of light salmon brittle turn to apple blossoms, and then a sip reveals sea salt, lemon rind and poached apple, with a nutty macadamia paste note throughout.	93	35	California	Chardonnay
115,780	France	A big, ripe and smoky wine, it displays a fruity, juicy undertow. It is developing well, giving great black currant fruitiness, some dense tannins and final acidity. Drink from 2017.	88	20	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
56,595	France	With a high proportion of Pinot Noir in the blend, this ripe wine has a sense of structure as well as fruitiness. Rich pear and apricot flavors are balanced by the fresh, crisp aftertaste. The wine is rounded and ready to drink.	89	32	Champagne	Champagne Blend
121,585	Italy	Underbrush, scorched earth, espresso and exotic spice aromas open. The taut, linear palate offers dried sour cherry, coffee bean and grilled sage alongside a backbone of austere, fine-grained tannins that leave a firm finish.	89	52	Piedmont	Red Blend
13,275	US	This new cuvée features grapes from both Tokar and Yellowbird vineyards, located out in the Mill Creek region east of downtown Walla Walla. It's close enough to the Blue Mountains to allow for this experiment in dry-farmed (non-irrigated) grapes. Flavors are distinctive, showing wild berries, cola, grain and herb.	89	42	Washington	Cabernet Sauvignon
74,367	Portugal	This is open and generous, a soft wine that will be ready to drink soon. It still has some firm structure although that serves as a support to the blackberry fruit flavors. The aftertaste is juicy and fresh.	88	12	Douro	Portuguese Red
113,738	Spain	Woody, earthy berry aromas are more elegant than overpowering. This crianza feels fresh, albeit a touch raw and scratchy. Earthy, lightly oaked flavors of vanilla, plum and cherry finish dry, spicy and with scrappy tannins.	88	15	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
57,586	US	Cranberry and clove swirl into a decadently spiced nose on this single-vineyard expression from veteran winemakers Dick Dore and Billy Wathen. The wine delivers more complexity on the palate, with touches of raspberry, allspice and cardamon.	93	62	California	Pinot Noir
19,549	US	This wine has a pretty honeysuckle aroma that invites from beginning to end, its silky texture met with moderate acidity along the way. Medium bodied and creamy, it offers additional layers of white peach and almond.	90	35	California	Viognier
77,864	France	On the lean side, this is a tense, severe wine that offers few flavors at this stage. It's hard, and the wood and tannins dominate the fruit. It's always likely to be firm, although an attractive smokiness will become pleasant in 2–3 years.	85	16	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
46,497	US	This wine presents itself full-bodied and big in style, with an inkling of red plum and cherry fighting for attention against a tide of rounded concentration and darker, smokier tinges of cigar and chocolate.	86	50	California	Merlot
78,227	US	Merlot is the principal grape here, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot filling out the blend. This is an elegant, sculpted wine, built upon a sturdy foundation of supple, ripe Columbia Valley fruit. Raspberry and cherry flavors get a spicy lift from the Petit Verdot, while the Cabernet adds focus and heft to the tannins.	93	50	Washington	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
47,877	France	This is a dominated by new wood, but it still retains fragrant, fresh fruit. A touch of lemon pairs with the toast note, bearing refreshing acidity on the finish.	88	26	Burgundy	Chardonnay
106,153	US	Earthy in wild strawberry, tart cherry and exotic spicy aromas, it's well-made and tight in acidity. Elements of black tea intermingle nicely within complex layers that are delicate and bright.	90	35	California	Pinot Noir
3,704	US	Warren Dutton planted the first vineyard block of this Russian River Valley producer, the Pinot a combination of Dijon and Pommard clones. In the hands of new winemaker Jerome Chéry, the wine is exotic in spicy cinnamon and cardamom, earthy and herbal with layers of dark cherry.	91	55	California	Pinot Noir
53,730	US	Rarely does a Cabernet of this quality carry the basic "California" appellation, but here it does, and who should care? Deep black fruit with perfect oak makes for the ultimate in integration. A long cocoa and spice finish closes the show. Wonderfully sweet, round and delicious.	93	60	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
30,184	Argentina	Herbal notes of pine and eucalyptus rest on top of a bedding of spiced cherry and cassis aromas. This Malbec blend is firm and structured, with no weaknesses around the edges or in the middle. Ripe blackberry, spice, mocha and molasses flavors finish toasty but alive. Drink through 2021.	92	30	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
57,003	Argentina	Spunky dark fruit aromas open the show, with leather, cheese and mocha coming in later. The palate is a little grabby and acidic, but the juicy flavors of plum, wild berry, citrus and cassis are good. Finishes with some bounce in its step due to full acidity, and overall it maintains freshness and zest. Malbec with smaller doses of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot.	88	30	Mendoza Province	Red Blend
20,854	France	This attractive village wine has ripe fruits as well as a more steely texture. Wood flavors give smoothness that rounds out the wine and enhances the yellow fruit flavors. Drink now.	89	80	Burgundy	Chardonnay
39,524	Spain	A touch murky and leafy at first, with vanilla and red fruit aromas. Runs crisp and tangy, with length, a lean structure and snappy pie cherry, red plum and vanilla flavors. Fresh and tight on the finish, with leftover juiciness. A good wine for tapas and basic salty foods.	87	18	Northern Spain	Tempranillo
44,251	US	This bottling always strives to avoid a heavy hand and express more of a terroir-driven Chardonnay. This is bone dry, tart in mouthwatering acidity and complex in citrus, tropical fruit and herb flavors. It's not an opulent attention getter, but instead prefers to seduce through subtlety and nuance.	92	40	California	Chardonnay
27,242	US	Golden in the glass, this bottling shows intriguing aromas of dried lemon peels, scratched grapefruit, blood orange rinds, crushed chalk, sea salt and a touch of peach custard. The palate offers a touch of limestone minerality with seared orange, warm chamomile and vanilla toward the finish.	90	32	California	Viognier
788	Argentina	Oaky, smoky aromas are New World all the way. Heavily toasted and creamy on the palate, this hefty full-bodied Chardonnay tastes of wood resin, spiced apple and peach. Solid acidity keep this in line, while a lasting wave of toasty oak pushes the finish.	90	46	Mendoza Province	Chardonnay
61,028	France	A soft wine, with some herbal, pear and kiwi flavors. It has just an edge of sweetness that gives it a soft aftertaste. For drinking now.	84	13	Bordeaux	Sauvignon Blanc
67,181	Italy	Enticing aromas of rose, violet, perfumed berry, baking spice and mint waft out of the glass while ripe black cherry, licorice, crushed herb and a hint of tobacco drive the full-bodied, structured palate. Firm, velvety tannins provide the backbone. Drink through 2026.	92	49	Piedmont	Nebbiolo
63,247	US	Spicy and lightly peppery, this fresh rosé brings concentrated strawberry fruit into focus. Made from organically grown grapes, it expands into a full-bodied finish with a lick of milk chocolate.	90	16	Oregon	Grenache
8,894	France	Rich, opulent and spicy, with a great balance between wood and fruit. The generous black plum and black currant fruit is delicious, balanced by taut acidity. Keep for 3-4 years.	93	138	Burgundy	Pinot Noir
22,805	US	From a selection of vineyard-designated sites, including Durell, Campbell Ranch and several Sangiacomo sites, this well-crafted blend is buzzing in minerality, a wet-stone character that overlays a depth of silky richness. Approachable now and yet structured for aging, its medium-level weight is awash in ripe apple and pear, finishing lean.	91	38	California	Chardonnay
1,800	France	Solid and powerful, it has a great mix of very ripe fruit with dense tannins. Blackberry fruits, laced with licorice and dark chocolate, contrast with a juicy, lightly herbal element. This mainly Merlot wine is destined for a fine future. Drink from 2017.	91	29	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
118,436	France	Still lean and structured, this is a cool-feeling, young wine. It has dry tannins and a chewy texture that needs to soften. At the back, juicy black currant fruits show promise for the future. Drink from 2018.	87	15	Bordeaux	Bordeaux-style Red Blend
63,160	US	This is a suave and supple wine, with a luxuriously smooth texture. From one of Anderson Valley's fabled vineyard sites, this offers softness and easy drinkability, balanced by a firm backing of fruit tones, acidity and fine tannins.	92	55	California	Pinot Noir
110,762	US	This is surprisingly soft and one-dimensional for a Rutherford Cabernet. Although you'll find rich cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, the wine lacks depth and structure. Drink now.	84	65	California	Cabernet Sauvignon
86,416	Italy	The Il Tralcetto line of wines is packaged with a real grape vine clipping looped over the neck of the bottle. Inside is a fresh and easy expression of Merlot that is redolent of cherry, raspberry and spice.	85	12	Veneto	Merlot
40,479	US	This is a Merlot-dominant blend, with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc blended in. It offers cooler-climate elements of dried herb, cedar and currant, with the tannins sleek and polished. The finish flirts with a taste of coconut. Drink now through 2021.	91	54	California	Red Blend
78,506	Italy	A delicate bouquet of white flower and talc powder gives this vineyard-designate Prosecco Superiore a very clean, sharp and fresh first impression. That enormous focus continues to the palate where the wine's fresh acidity and tight perlage does a great job of refreshing the mouth.	89	20	Veneto	Glera

64,723

US

Lots of black rocks and turned earth gives depth to the dark black-cherry core elements on the nose of this blend of 55% Syrah and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dried cherries, asphalt, espresso bean and chopped herbs arise on the palate.

89

40

California

Red Blend

60,108

US

This showy wine has maple syrup aromas, extremely ripe and almost unctuous flavors, lots of spicy oak influence and full body. While it offers a lot of flash, it also has lots of substance underneath. A velvety, grippy texture owes a lot to layered tannins, and a base note of ripe berries carries through the finish.

89

26

California

Zinfandel

29,974

US

A sound, everyday Merlot. It has ripe blackberry, cherry, currant and cola flavors, and feels smooth and rich in the mouth. Great job at this price.

85

10

California

Merlot

123,277

Germany

A bit of an anomaly for this fine Ruwer estate, where being merely good is a disappointment. It starts off with attractive stone and ripe apple notes, but seems somewhat acetic on the palate—there's an intrusive pickle-like note.

85

35

Mosel

Riesling

33,784

Spain

Ripe, spicy berry aromas are a touch reduced. This warm-vintage reserva feels jammy and wide, with rugged, pulling tannins. Peppery dark-fruit flavors turn more savory on a tannic, rocky finish. Drink through 2022.

90

30

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

83,203

Italy

Enticing scents of red berry, crushed rose petal and wild herb take center stage. Round and savory, the palate offers juicy black cherry, licorice and tobacco framed in polished tannins and fresh acidity. It won't need years to come around but it will also stand up to midterm aging. Drink 2019–2028.

91

37

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

64,700

US

A brisk Syrah, dry and tart, with some notable tannins. It's so rich and sweet in blackberries, beef jerky, carob and spices, you can forgive a few faults, such as excessive acidity.

87

16

California

Syrah

64,973

US

Canned pears and plumeria show on the nose of this bargain-priced offering, worthy of a weeknight dinner or later in the evening. The palate shows lots of ripe stone fruit, apple syrup and tangy citrus, the finish delivering a lasting acidity.

85

10

California

Chardonnay

89,468

Italy

Firmly structured but elegant, this offers aromas of blue flower, tobacco, tilled earth, black fruit and a balsamic note. The vibrant palate boasts wonderful intensity, weaving notes of white pepper, baking spice, savory herb, licorice and mineral around a black cherry core. It's young and austere but impeccably balanced with firm acidity and assertive but fine-grained tannins. Give it time to unwind and develop complexity. Drink 2018–2030.

95

115

Tuscany

Sangiovese

14,336

Italy

Mature berry, black plum, truffle and dark spice aromas take center stage. The chewy palate doles out crushed raspberry, tart cherry, licorice and clove flavors. This is fresh and balanced with firm, refined tannins. Drink 2018–2026.

92

50

Tuscany

Sangiovese

72,989

US

Blackberry, strong leather, black pepper and hints of purple flowers make this fruity wine quite approachable on the nose. There's a mix of fresh blackberries and blackberry jam on the palate with hints of thyme, juniper spice and black pepper adding intrigue to the otherwise fruit-forward sip.

89

15

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

765

US

Ripe enough in blackberries, currants and mocha, with an earthy, tobacco herbaceousness. The tannins are potent, making the wine hard. Drink now, after a good decanting.

87

32

California

Red Blend

40,840

France

The name of the wine says a lot about its structure. It definitely has a mineral tang to it although the ripe yellow fruits do give it a soft cushion. The acidity however makes it crisp, refreshing and ready to drink.

87

15

Burgundy

Chardonnay

63,123

US

Continues a string of successful bottlings of this Cabernet. The flavors are strong but subtle, suggesting blackberries and black currants, with earthier notes of dark chocolate and roasted almonds. Very good, but also pretty tannic. You'll want to cellar this for 5–6 years to let it mellow.

91

55

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

101,996

US

Too sweet, soft and simple in cherry-cola flavors, this Syrah would benefit from more dryness and greater structure. It turns Porty on the finish. Drink now.

84

27

California

Syrah

98,205

France

Full in the mouth, this is a ripe, currant- and gooseberry-flavored wine. It has a bright, forward, fruity feel that makes it delicious to drink. Very refreshing in character. Screwcap.

86

10

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style White Blend

56,861

US

Very fruity and rather soft in texture, this wine has a sense of sweetness from the buttery, grape aromas to the ripe, almost jammy flavors and gentle finish.

86

14

California

Pinot Noir

9,048

Germany

Initial aromas of savory spice and earth subside, revealing luscious apricot, peach and yellow-cherry flavors on this delicate Riesling. Semi-sweet in style, it's nuanced with shades of dusty minerals and a pretty floral spray that lingers on the finish.

91

75

Mosel

Riesling

67,893

Spain

A little bit round given that it's a blanc de blancs, with applesauce and spice on the nose. The palate deals a white-fruit mélange that's one part tangy and one part generous. Holds steady on the finish and doesn't show any warts or faults. Nice Cava with an elevated persona.

88

16

Catalonia

Sparkling Blend

71,944

France

The nose just hints at earth and autumnal oak leaf. The palate comes with slight grip, very fine tannins and more earthy leafy aromas. Red-cherry fruit is just hinted at. This is slender and bone dry and will come into its own when served with subtle mushroom or game dishes.

89

27

Alsace

Pinot Noir

1,030

US

There's a substantial earthiness to this Chardonnay, grown in a relatively cool estate vineyard. Vibrant on the palate in ripe apple and lemon, it offers medium weight and body, with a crispness to the finish and a food-friendly nature.

88

60

California

Chardonnay

35,280

France

The wine is hard, tough and dense. Its tannins are solid, dominant, extracted and cover any fruit. It is likely to remain dry.

84

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

87,040

US

A tarry, asphalt character shows on this bottling of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, as well as oregano and dark but slightly sour berries. The palate offers charred cherries and charcoal notes, yet the mouthfeel and structure are relatively light.

86

55

California

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

66,018

US

A light golden hue, this richly aromatic wine offers notes of toasty barrel spices, apricot and dried mango. It's full bodied, almost unctuous in feel, with abundant, sweet stone-fruit flavors and a lingering finish.

90

28

Washington

Chardonnay

59,694

US

Named for his sons Hunter and Ryder, this is part of Guy Fieri's small wine project based in Sonoma County. The partnership with Winemaker Guy Davis of Davis Family Vineyards sources from three old-vine sites, including Doug Rafanelli's, to make a balanced wine marked by savory black olive, black pepper and a strong current of Italian deli aromas and flavors. Pillowy tannin and a shot of tobacco add nicely to the whole.

92

40

California

Zinfandel

8,672

France

The wine is ripe and soft, with a style that is more towards tropical fruits. So apricots, ripe pears are cut with crisp acidity. The wine is tangy at the end with orange zest flavors. Drink from 2017.

88

24

Loire Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

76,574

US

Dry, tart and balanced, it has keen acidity highlighting complex flavors of pomegranates, persimmons, cherries and sandalwood, with the earthy, plummy sweetness of mu shu sauce. This wine gets better and better as it breathes in the glass. It's hard to keep from opening it now, but it will benefit from aging; best after 2018.

95

75

California

Pinot Noir

94,161

Italy

Blue flower, plum, leather and underbrush aromas come together in the glass. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove, tobacco and aniseed alongside velvety tannins. A black pepper note signals the close. Drink through 2018.

92

35

Tuscany

Sangiovese

715

Argentina

Sweet oak and vanilla aromas are front and center on a jammy bouquet that also features black plum and blackberry scents. This blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Tannat feels full, lifted and balanced. Ripe, enticing flavors of wild berry and cassis are backed by toast, chocolate, vanilla and coconut notes as well as heat and burn. Drink through 2019.

91

28

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

88,871

US

Cabernets just don't get much richer, riper or deeper than this single-vineyard beauty. Dry, tannic and fine in acidity, it's a full-frontal assault of blackberries, cassis liqueur and new oak, concentrated beyond belief. The sheer magnitude demands time in the cellar. Try after 2015, and it could go far beyond that.

94

85

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

23,487

France

The nose is shy and does not give much away. On the palate, beautifully pure red currant and tart red-cherry notes come through. The slender body is pervaded by freshness and has lovely overtones of conifer and oak leaf. It is later on that the fine but firm structure comes to bear. This is light but has depth and the potential to develop.

90

25

Alsace

Pinot Noir

126,125

US

Bright in acidity, which gives it a mouthwatering vitality. It's also a little ripe with Meyer lemon fruit. The result is sweet-and-sour, with the finish turning sugary.

84

22

California

Chardonnay

72,421

Argentina

Orange blossom and other common white fruit aromas make for a standard, generic type of bouquet. The palate is regular in feel and weight, with shy flavors of melon and apple. Entirely middle of the road in aromas, body, feel and flavors.

84

15

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

60,115

US

A hint of rose petal perfumes white peach and grapefruit on this elegant off-dry Riesling. The midpalate is softened by a burst of luscious apricot, while a zesty steak of lime balances a long, meandering finish.

89

18

New York

Riesling

118,047

Argentina

Hay and green apple aromas are about all that you can extract from the nose. It feels top heavy and awkward, with mealy citrus and maderized apple flavors. The finish is full, fruity and baked. Drink now.

81

8

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

75,726

US

A hint of spice peppers this rich, lusciously bodied Chardonnay full of ripe apple and lemon flavor. It's creamy and clingy in mouthfeel, but balanced elegantly by sharp lemon and lime tones that brighten the midpalate.

89

18

New York

Chardonnay

76,091

Italy

Filippone is a 50-50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot that is layered tight with aromas of wild berries, blue flower, plush cherry, moist earth and a touch of playful spice. The structure is firm without being hard and the wine would pair with pasta or meat.

92

40

Tuscany

Red Blend

33,397

US

Fresh-picked Bing cherry delights on the initial entry into this silky Pinot, sourced from a long-famous site in the heart of the Russian River. Medium-bodied and nicely structured, it offers ample concentration around a core of elegance, with a lingering finish of vibrant cherry. Enjoy through 2022.

95

79

California

Pinot Noir

34,943

US

This racy and leesy young wine offers fresh and crisp flavors of cucumber, celery, jicama and green apple. Despite all the green components, it is not herbal or vegetal, and offers a precise, delicately crafted and ageworthy take on the grape.

91

21

Oregon

Pinot Gris

124,311

France

Only produced in the best years, such as 2002, this is a 60-40 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Grand Cru vineyards. This intense wine is well-balanced and packed with fruit tones, yet seems to be just approaching maturity. It is full, generous and tightly textured. Drink now and until 2025.

93

100

Champagne

Champagne Blend

128,853

France

This second wine of Château Durfort-Vivens is ripe, firm and well structured. Beautiful ripe black currant and berry fruits are cut with intense acidity. From the great 2010 vintage, it is solid, dense and full of fruitiness as well as tannins. It still does need to age, so drink from 2017.

92

40

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

82,093

US

This bottling shows the sweeter side of the Chardonnay, offering honeydew, lemon blossom and pear cider notes on the nose. The acidity is powerful upon first taste, yielding to peach, nectarine and ripe apple flavors, which come across as confected after a couple of sips.

85

18

California

Chardonnay

116,513

US

Bright, clean flavors of cranberry and strawberry make this dry rosé easy on the palate and the wallet. There's a fruity kick on the nose followed by a dry but flavorful wave of flavors that seem perfect for a picnic or summertime sip under flapping sails. Pair this with seafood or poultry or experiment a little—its refreshing, crisp quality will play well with most foods.

87

15

New York

Rosé

17,302

France

From this rich vintage comes this delicious, open wine. Flavors of tropical fruit and peach create an opulent and generous feel, with notes from having aged in wood offering complexity. It's concentrated and ageworthy, worth keeping for 4–5 years and more.

93

70

Burgundy

Chardonnay

45,436

US

This Chardonnay offers nothing but deliciousness, and doesn't apologize for any lack of subtlety. It's as rich as a dessert pastry, with pineapple and orange pie, buttered croissant and vanilla flavors. Brisk acidity makes it all shiny and bright. It's arguably one of the best Napa Valley Chardonnays out there.

91

50

California

Chardonnay

81,080

US

The aromas of pear and herb seem a bit overripe. The flavors are dry and seem a bit diluted.

84

18

Washington

Sauvignon Blanc

32,601

US

There are complicated aromas and flavors to this blend from Santa Barbara County pioneer Rick Longoria. It starts with scents of wet dog, pine, pipe tobacco and peppercorns. The flavors recall gamy meat, like roasted lamb, with hints of stewed plum as well. Those who don't like constantly analyzing each sip may find this wine challenging.

87

30

California

Red Blend

111,527

France

There is a touch of bitterness in this wine, giving it an edgy character. There is plenty of fruitiness with notes of apple skin and lemon flavors that are bright and fresh. It needs a few months in bottle to fully integrate.

85

18

Alsace

Sparkling Blend

30,972

Australia

An intriguing wine, this boasts herbal-, tobacco- and truffle-laced aromatics backed by a modicum of cassis fruit and a wonderfully soft, creamy, supple texture. The flavors also veer dangerously close to vegetal, so if you insist on no green notes in your Cab, search somewhere else.

87

25

South Australia

Cabernet Sauvignon

71,057

US

Cultivated from a single vine many years ago that the then-vineyard manager believed was special, Husch's Vine One Chard is a soft, exotic wine. It combines smoky-sweet oak notes with baked apple, pear and quince flavors that finish dry and spicy.

86

18

California

Chardonnay

105,061

France

The fruitiness in this tight wine is still developing, hiding for now behind a bitter, toasty character. That should soften as the wine fills out—from 2018.

87

50

Burgundy

Chardonnay

73,289

US

Oaky-sweet and simple, with jammy pineapple, tropical fruit and honey flavors. The best thing is brisk acidity and a clean finish.

84

15

California

Chardonnay

13,513

Italy

Rasula shows ripe aromas of blackberry and prune with lingering tones of spice and leather in the background. It's a simple value wine with a chewy, rich mouthfeel.

85

12

Sicily & Sardinia

Cabernet Sauvignon

71,422

France

The 20% Malbec in the blend helps to produce the spicy tannins and dark color of this wine. The other grapes in the blend add richness and firm structure, plus a blackberry-driven juiciness. With its bright acidity added to the mix, this is a serious wine with good aging potential.

89

19

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

72,202

Italy

Tropical fruit, pineapple and white stone fruit lead the nose alongside a vegetal note. The palate offers white peach and green apple, with racy acidity and brisk bubbles that leave a sharp finish.

86

16

Veneto

Glera

117,329

US

Hard-edged tannins are the star on this wine now, but it does show an enormous heart of blackberries and black currants. Will it age? It is Howell Mountain, so the answer is, probably yes. Drink 2018–2020.

89

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

82,170

US

Beguiling streaks of red cherry surround a light, spicy, food-friendly core that's well balanced and integrated, the oak and tannin elegantly respectful of the red fruit. It offers medium weight amid the smoothness.

90

27

California

Pinot Noir

60,077

France

Although initially the acidity seems high, the fruit and the texture give the Dourthe wine balance. With a touch of spice, the wine is food friendly and ready to drink.

86

13

Bordeaux

Rosé

120,657

Spain

Dusty and plump up front, with a hint of melon. The palate is round and easygoing, with moderate acidity supporting baked apple and melon flavors. On the finish it's pithy and slightly bitter, but for the most part it holds onto its form and freshness.

86

15

Northern Spain

Chardonnay

88,124

US

Mandarin-orange zest, cut Asian pear, lemon blossom and slight beeswax show on the fresh nose of this bottling by young winemaker Mike Callahan. It's extremely dry on the palate, like licking limestone, with hints of nectarine blossom and lemon-skin flavor.

90

22

California

Riesling

11,310

France

The wine is dry and structured with firm tannins that are masking the fruit. It is a concentrated wine, firm and dense. Let this wine develop and wait to drink until 2019.

87

13

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

39,289

US

Pretty much as good as Napa Cabernet gets. Shows the blackberries, black currants, blueberries and spicy plums of Oakville and scads of spices, and the tannin-acid structure is, in a word, superb. The oak elaboration is just about perfect, adding a tasteful layer of smoky, buttered toast. The finish goes on and on.

98

75

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

127,236

Italy

This offers aromas of mature plum, berry, toasted oak and coffee. The straightforward palate offers roasted coffee beans, espresso, dried black cherry and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins. The fruit is starting to dry up, so drink soon.

87

18

Piedmont

Barbera

114,099

Italy

Tocai Friulano and Ribolla Gialla give this wine attractive floral aromas and full flavors of tropical fruits (lychees?), while the Sauvignon Blanc in the blend provides grapefruity notes that perfectly balance the effusiveness of the other varieties.

88

42

Northeastern Italy

White Blend

39,281

US

Pronounced Kay-lee, this Syrah is unabashedly funky. If you like a wine with generous aromas of barnyard and garden, along with potent, ripe, berry-laden fruit, this delivers in spades. Barrel aging adds chocolate and dark espresso character to the finish.

91

39

Washington

Syrah

15,456

US

Named after Bill Foley's jingle-writing mother , this wine sings, starting with the starry shine in the glass. Aromas of light salmon brittle turn to apple blossoms, and then a sip reveals sea salt, lemon rind and poached apple, with a nutty macadamia paste note throughout.

93

35

California

Chardonnay

115,780

France

A big, ripe and smoky wine, it displays a fruity, juicy undertow. It is developing well, giving great black currant fruitiness, some dense tannins and final acidity. Drink from 2017.

88

20

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

56,595

France

With a high proportion of Pinot Noir in the blend, this ripe wine has a sense of structure as well as fruitiness. Rich pear and apricot flavors are balanced by the fresh, crisp aftertaste. The wine is rounded and ready to drink.

89

32

Champagne

Champagne Blend

121,585

Italy

Underbrush, scorched earth, espresso and exotic spice aromas open. The taut, linear palate offers dried sour cherry, coffee bean and grilled sage alongside a backbone of austere, fine-grained tannins that leave a firm finish.

89

52

Piedmont

Red Blend

13,275

US

This new cuvée features grapes from both Tokar and Yellowbird vineyards, located out in the Mill Creek region east of downtown Walla Walla. It's close enough to the Blue Mountains to allow for this experiment in dry-farmed (non-irrigated) grapes. Flavors are distinctive, showing wild berries, cola, grain and herb.

89

42

Washington

Cabernet Sauvignon

74,367

Portugal

This is open and generous, a soft wine that will be ready to drink soon. It still has some firm structure although that serves as a support to the blackberry fruit flavors. The aftertaste is juicy and fresh.

88

12

Douro

Portuguese Red

113,738

Spain

Woody, earthy berry aromas are more elegant than overpowering. This crianza feels fresh, albeit a touch raw and scratchy. Earthy, lightly oaked flavors of vanilla, plum and cherry finish dry, spicy and with scrappy tannins.

88

15

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

57,586

US

Cranberry and clove swirl into a decadently spiced nose on this single-vineyard expression from veteran winemakers Dick Dore and Billy Wathen. The wine delivers more complexity on the palate, with touches of raspberry, allspice and cardamon.

93

62

California

Pinot Noir

19,549

US

This wine has a pretty honeysuckle aroma that invites from beginning to end, its silky texture met with moderate acidity along the way. Medium bodied and creamy, it offers additional layers of white peach and almond.

90

35

California

Viognier

77,864

France

On the lean side, this is a tense, severe wine that offers few flavors at this stage. It's hard, and the wood and tannins dominate the fruit. It's always likely to be firm, although an attractive smokiness will become pleasant in 2–3 years.

85

16

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

46,497

US

This wine presents itself full-bodied and big in style, with an inkling of red plum and cherry fighting for attention against a tide of rounded concentration and darker, smokier tinges of cigar and chocolate.

86

50

California

Merlot

78,227

US

Merlot is the principal grape here, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot filling out the blend. This is an elegant, sculpted wine, built upon a sturdy foundation of supple, ripe Columbia Valley fruit. Raspberry and cherry flavors get a spicy lift from the Petit Verdot, while the Cabernet adds focus and heft to the tannins.

93

50

Washington

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

47,877

France

This is a dominated by new wood, but it still retains fragrant, fresh fruit. A touch of lemon pairs with the toast note, bearing refreshing acidity on the finish.

88

26

Burgundy

Chardonnay

106,153

US

Earthy in wild strawberry, tart cherry and exotic spicy aromas, it's well-made and tight in acidity. Elements of black tea intermingle nicely within complex layers that are delicate and bright.

90

35

California

Pinot Noir

3,704

US

Warren Dutton planted the first vineyard block of this Russian River Valley producer, the Pinot a combination of Dijon and Pommard clones. In the hands of new winemaker Jerome Chéry, the wine is exotic in spicy cinnamon and cardamom, earthy and herbal with layers of dark cherry.

91

55

California

Pinot Noir

53,730

US

Rarely does a Cabernet of this quality carry the basic "California" appellation, but here it does, and who should care? Deep black fruit with perfect oak makes for the ultimate in integration. A long cocoa and spice finish closes the show. Wonderfully sweet, round and delicious.

93

60

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

30,184

Argentina

Herbal notes of pine and eucalyptus rest on top of a bedding of spiced cherry and cassis aromas. This Malbec blend is firm and structured, with no weaknesses around the edges or in the middle. Ripe blackberry, spice, mocha and molasses flavors finish toasty but alive. Drink through 2021.

92

30

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

57,003

Argentina

Spunky dark fruit aromas open the show, with leather, cheese and mocha coming in later. The palate is a little grabby and acidic, but the juicy flavors of plum, wild berry, citrus and cassis are good. Finishes with some bounce in its step due to full acidity, and overall it maintains freshness and zest. Malbec with smaller doses of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot.

88

30

Mendoza Province

Red Blend

20,854

France

This attractive village wine has ripe fruits as well as a more steely texture. Wood flavors give smoothness that rounds out the wine and enhances the yellow fruit flavors. Drink now.

89

80

Burgundy

Chardonnay

39,524

Spain

A touch murky and leafy at first, with vanilla and red fruit aromas. Runs crisp and tangy, with length, a lean structure and snappy pie cherry, red plum and vanilla flavors. Fresh and tight on the finish, with leftover juiciness. A good wine for tapas and basic salty foods.

87

18

Northern Spain

Tempranillo

44,251

US

This bottling always strives to avoid a heavy hand and express more of a terroir-driven Chardonnay. This is bone dry, tart in mouthwatering acidity and complex in citrus, tropical fruit and herb flavors. It's not an opulent attention getter, but instead prefers to seduce through subtlety and nuance.

92

40

California

Chardonnay

27,242

US

Golden in the glass, this bottling shows intriguing aromas of dried lemon peels, scratched grapefruit, blood orange rinds, crushed chalk, sea salt and a touch of peach custard. The palate offers a touch of limestone minerality with seared orange, warm chamomile and vanilla toward the finish.

90

32

California

Viognier

788

Argentina

Oaky, smoky aromas are New World all the way. Heavily toasted and creamy on the palate, this hefty full-bodied Chardonnay tastes of wood resin, spiced apple and peach. Solid acidity keep this in line, while a lasting wave of toasty oak pushes the finish.

90

46

Mendoza Province

Chardonnay

61,028

France

A soft wine, with some herbal, pear and kiwi flavors. It has just an edge of sweetness that gives it a soft aftertaste. For drinking now.

84

13

Bordeaux

Sauvignon Blanc

67,181

Italy

Enticing aromas of rose, violet, perfumed berry, baking spice and mint waft out of the glass while ripe black cherry, licorice, crushed herb and a hint of tobacco drive the full-bodied, structured palate. Firm, velvety tannins provide the backbone. Drink through 2026.

92

49

Piedmont

Nebbiolo

63,247

US

Spicy and lightly peppery, this fresh rosé brings concentrated strawberry fruit into focus. Made from organically grown grapes, it expands into a full-bodied finish with a lick of milk chocolate.

90

16

Oregon

Grenache

8,894

France

Rich, opulent and spicy, with a great balance between wood and fruit. The generous black plum and black currant fruit is delicious, balanced by taut acidity. Keep for 3-4 years.

93

138

Burgundy

Pinot Noir

22,805

US

From a selection of vineyard-designated sites, including Durell, Campbell Ranch and several Sangiacomo sites, this well-crafted blend is buzzing in minerality, a wet-stone character that overlays a depth of silky richness. Approachable now and yet structured for aging, its medium-level weight is awash in ripe apple and pear, finishing lean.

91

38

California

Chardonnay

1,800

France

Solid and powerful, it has a great mix of very ripe fruit with dense tannins. Blackberry fruits, laced with licorice and dark chocolate, contrast with a juicy, lightly herbal element. This mainly Merlot wine is destined for a fine future. Drink from 2017.

91

29

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

118,436

France

Still lean and structured, this is a cool-feeling, young wine. It has dry tannins and a chewy texture that needs to soften. At the back, juicy black currant fruits show promise for the future. Drink from 2018.

87

15

Bordeaux

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

63,160

US

This is a suave and supple wine, with a luxuriously smooth texture. From one of Anderson Valley's fabled vineyard sites, this offers softness and easy drinkability, balanced by a firm backing of fruit tones, acidity and fine tannins.

92

55

California

Pinot Noir

110,762

US

This is surprisingly soft and one-dimensional for a Rutherford Cabernet. Although you'll find rich cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, the wine lacks depth and structure. Drink now.

84

65

California

Cabernet Sauvignon

86,416

Italy

The Il Tralcetto line of wines is packaged with a real grape vine clipping looped over the neck of the bottle. Inside is a fresh and easy expression of Merlot that is redolent of cherry, raspberry and spice.

85

12

Veneto

Merlot

40,479

US

This is a Merlot-dominant blend, with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc blended in. It offers cooler-climate elements of dried herb, cedar and currant, with the tannins sleek and polished. The finish flirts with a taste of coconut. Drink now through 2021.

91

54

California

Red Blend

78,506

Italy

A delicate bouquet of white flower and talc powder gives this vineyard-designate Prosecco Superiore a very clean, sharp and fresh first impression. That enormous focus continues to the palate where the wine's fresh acidity and tight perlage does a great job of refreshing the mouth.

89

20

Veneto

Glera