Wellyowo/wine_review · Datasets at Hugging Face

wine_id int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 41 values	description stringlengths 20 764	designation stringlengths 1 95	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 1.1k
20,223	us	a new effort from jigar vineyards, sourcing some very good grapes, sedition is light, clear and lingering on the palate in cherry-cola, mint and dried herb. balanced and on the lighter side in terms of body and tannin, it's ready for the table, with a juicy, persistent finish.	Chenoweth Vineyards	90	75
116,059	italy	heady aromas suggesting tropical fruit, honeysuckle and citrus zest lead the nose. bright and refreshing, the lively palate offers mature white stone fruit, tangerine peel and a pleasantly bitter-almond note.	Estate Grown	88	10
36,282	new zealand	like several other producers of marlborough sauvignon blanc, jackson estate is trying to make a cuvée that offers something more than stereotypical tropical fruit and fresh herbs. this is a partially barrel-fermented effort that boasts brown sugar and cinnamon aromas, and flavors that mix coffee with lime and passion fruit. it's not entirely harmonious, but offers concentration and innovation, something that should be applauded.	Grey Ghost	87	29
35,431	us	intense concentration and firm structure make this an age-worthy, big and tannic wine. it boasts a deep, dark color, dense ripe blackberry and black cherry aromas and spicy, oaky nuances that add complexity. best after 2019.	Jewel Collection Cabernet Sauvignon	91	55
34,299	chile	standard on the nose, with apple, pear and spice aromas, this is a fruity viognier with sweet flavors of peach and nectarine in front of a finish that starts out juicy but falls off quickly. expect lots of sweet, basic white-fruit character from this warm-vintage wine.	Tama Vineyard Selection	85	15
31,289	israel	dark ruby in color, this wine has a bouquet of black cherry, green pepper and pomegranate. smooth tannins provide a backdrop for flavors of black cherry, cranberry, smoke and mediterranean herbs that recede slightly on the bright cherry finish.	Adama	91	22
114,299	us	pale in color, with a soft, silky body and candied strawberry and vanilla flavors, this blend straddles the line between a red wine and a rosé. you can treat it either way, at room temperature or chilled.	Tess	83	20
348	australia	deep mahogany. dried fig and black tea on the nose, then concentrated mocha and molasses flavors, enlivened by candied orange zest. full, rich and sweet, but surprisingly drinkable, with terrific intensity and length.	Grand	97	100
78,754	italy	dark berry, purple iris and a whiff of cake spice float from the glass. the palate offers up black cherry, blackberry, clove and cinnamon alongside round, smooth tannins. it's already extremely accessible and will provide easy-drinking pleasure for the next few years. drink through 2018.	Riserva	88	35
18,147	france	with vines in the northeast of the gers region, this winery produces impressively ripe red wines. this wood-aged and spicy wine is still young and needs time to integrate the wood with the red berry fruits. it does have weight and potential richness, so give it until 2016.	La Croix d'Arton	88	12
73,934	new zealand	this wine starts on the shy side but with several minutes in glass reveals delicate notes of lemon-lime, watermelon rind and grass along with a touch of butter in the background. it's the palate that's of real interest here. prickly acidity is backed up with a chalky texture, a hint of spice, and a long lemony finish. this is a light and refreshing drop, with a hint of seriousness thrown in for good measure.	Mohua	88	14
15,181	chile	cherry and black fruit aromas are capped by a rubbery note. it feels juicy and fresh, with raspberry, red plum and vanilla flavors. drying but fresh and nice on the finish.	Crucero	87	10
34,332	spain	wiry berry aromas are overripe. this wine feels heavy, sticky and tannic. flavors of baked berry fruits end mulchy and stalky, much like the nose. tempranillo with 10% syrah.	Picos del Montgó	84	11
121,494	austria	yeasty citrus notes dominate the nose while the palate is savory with chervil, sage and more yeast. a vein of crisp citrus acidity pulls it all together. the aftertaste lingers long with lemon zest.	Höhereck Smaragd	90	49
51,552	austria	a finely perfumed wine with aromas of white flowers and honey. the wine has the purest acidity, very citrus and grapefruit, delicious apple skins and a dancing freshness. worth aging, but delicious now.	Kremser Pfaffenberg Reserve	90	25
113,807	us	this is the kind of california pinot noir burgundophiles love to hate. it's so full-bodied and fruity, so forward in currant, chocolate and licorice flavors, that it seems to have nowhere to go — a sin in burgundy. and yet there's no denying its immediate deliciousness. it fools the palate, now honey sweet, now bone dry, but always rich and spicy.	Proximus	90	56
45,252	us	a whiff of spring blossoms introduces this lush richly textured pinot noir rosé. its ripe and fruity, full of succulent berry, cherry and watermelon flavors, yet balanced neatly in acidity. forward and fresh, it make for tempting summer guzzling.	Stony Lonesome Estate Reserve Dry Rosé of	89	16
33,560	italy	fragrant spring flower, citrus blossom and orchard fruit aromas leap from the glass. the slightly off-dry tangy palate presents ripe green apple, white peach and a juicy note of candied lemon drop offset by crisp acidity and a lively perlage.	Extra Dry	88	22
195	italy	this is a mature, jammy wine with thick layers of plum, prune and raisin. the wine's appearance is dark and concentrated and that same sensation of heaviness carries over the palate in the form of black currant and spice. the tannins are firm and tart.	Riserva	87	35
13,466	us	this blend of 50% grenache, 33% mourvèdre and 17% syrah is quite a delicious and full package. the nose is pretty yet also dense and brawny, with aromas of baked black plum, wild blackberry, leather, sagebrush and lightly roasted coffee. there is lots of chalky texture on the palate and a pointed acidity, presenting exotic flavors of plum, mulberry, pepper spice and a touch of nutmeg.	Chosen One	93	38
93,217	italy	here's a delightful and straightforward wine that opens with a delicate fragrance of white spring flowers. the palate offers notes of tropical fruit, lemon zest and a hint of clove. it has a clean, quenching finish.	Salviano	86	16
94,509	italy	intense aromas of white and yellow roses and tropical fruit dominate the nose on this full-bodied wine. the rich, round palate is loaded with ripe tropical fruit, apricot, yellow peach, honey and candied ginger alongside the warmth of alcohol.	Nussbaumer	89	40
22,834	italy	this is a hard prosecco to score. you expect the soft freshness and peachy tones that normally define this category of italian sparkler, yet here, you get a more sophisticated and slightly oxidized expression. the vintage bubbly is made with organically farmed grapes (no sulfites) and offers aromas of pear and apple cider. not for everyone.	Animae Millesimato Brut	86	25
79,393	new zealand	this blend of four bordeaux varieties (40% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 29% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot) is reasonably full in the mouth, with subdued aromas of blackberry and cola. dark berry, earth and mocha flavors finish long and velvety. drink now–2025.	Gimblett Gravels The Gimblett	90	30
12,512	italy	a 75-25 blend of nero d'avola and tannat, naisi is a plump, jammy red with aromas of blackberry, leather and cured meat. the finish is layered with sweet and sour elements.	Naisi	86	22
124,103	argentina	a bit sweaty smelling, with pinched grapefruit aromas and distant citrus. the flavors say generic apple and lime, and there's a flatness to it. it's a little sugary as well. ok for a wine with pronounced low acidity.	Vástago de Gea	83	15
75,727	france	a blend that includes syrah and tannat as well as bordeaux grapes, this is a wood-aged, ripe and rich wine. a tense streak of acidity heightens the effect of the black currant fruits. spice at the end comes from the wood. drink from 2016.	Piaffer	89	27
120,941	austria	hayflowers, summer meadows and ripe pears are conjured up by this wine. the palate is toned with a harmonious interplay of textural power and streamlined freshness. grapefruit zestiness and herbal savoriness complete the tableau.	Alte Reben Reserve	92	27
72,705	france	while the wine is bone-dry, its soft character keeps it from being too steely and tight. aromatic and fresh, it has delicious, juicy apple and green plum flavors. drink from 2015.	Portrait	87	17
102,999	spain	the wine leads with aromas of raisin and black fruits. in the mouth, it feels spiky, with pointed tannins. earthy, stewed plum and baked berry flavors lead to a big, edgy feeling finish with blocky tannins.	Crianza	85	12
44,241	portugal	a vineyard selection is used to make this powerful, super ripe wine. with its opulent flavors, it is as densely packed with fruit as it is with tannins. balanced and gorgeous, this is ready to drink now, yet it will age over several years.	Quinta da Fronteira Grande Escolha	93	60
113,862	france	this aube-based producer has made a fine vintage from a good year. a half-and-half blend of pinot noir and chardonnay, still young and crisp, this concentrated wine brings in apricot as well as citrus fruits into a taut and mineral texture. still full of its baby fruit, it will age well and will be best drunk from 2018.	D Millésimé Brut	93	85
76,874	us	the most affordable of harper voit's 2013 lineup, this deeply aromatic wine offers up a lush mix of rose petals and other perfumed floral scents, along with hints of rhubarb and cherry. elegant on the palate, it's a poised and balanced wine that brings to mind the old line about ginger rogers doing everything fred astaire did, only backwards and in high heels. here the dance includes ripe strawberries, cherries, flowers and a long, graceful encore.	Strandline	92	40
109,139	us	sourced from a host of vineyards, many of them in sonoma county, this is an intensely dark, weighty chardonnay with a taste of sour lemon and apple, rich in oak with a clean finish.	Silver Label	86	15
29,272	france	this big, spicy wine is very smooth and rich now, but also has the potential to age. dusty tannins, perfumed fruits and a rich dense character offer the potential to drink in a year. this is a great expression of cahors.	K-lys	90	24
58,467	us	this blend of 60% syrah and 40% tannat works quite well, with rounded aromas of caramelized blackberry, vanilla and vibrant violets on the nose. black currant, dried herbs and pepper show on the palate, which is nicely balanced and not as unctuous as the nose implies.	Vingence	91	65
47,995	italy	this opens with aromas of toast, oak and a whiff of coffee. the palate is still rather closed but eventually reveals raw cherry, anise, clove and ground pepper accompanied by bracing tannins and racy acidity. a note of dried sage closes the finish.	del Comune di Barolo	88	55
98,600	italy	opening with aromas of ripe orchard fruit, this delightful, informal sparkler offers yellow apple, bartlett pear and just a hint of beeswax. it's fun and fresh, with brisk acidity and a lively perlage.	Garbèl Brut	86	15
56,280	germany	initial aromas of smoke and earth dissipate to reveal scents of rich, honeyed peaches and spice. the palate is bright and sweet with ripe, juicy stonefruit and preserved quince, accented by hints of fresh herbs and ramps. an unusual harmony of sweet and savory, it finishes long and complex.	Abstberg Spätlese	89	40
128,765	france	this limited-production wine shows great structure appropriate for a wine that can age. it has a solid texture, full of rich cherry and black-plum fruits and a fresh line of acidity. the tannins give shape to the wine, which will certainly age. drink from 2017.	Les Charmes	91	25
44,852	spain	a tan color and dusty, tired aromas put this chardonnay on short notice. its plump palate delivers a mix of stone fruit and bitter, skin-based flavors, with a static finish.	Finca del Mar Chardonnay	84	17
78,777	us	the aromas jump up, with mesmerizing notes of fresh herbs, green olive, violets, orange peel, smoked meat and huckleberry. the palate shows a light but pillowy texture alongside flavors that carry on the finish. it's all about subtlety.	Estate	92	48
59,431	us	this particular bottling is a work in progress by veteran brutocao. it's a step forward in their attempt to master cabernet. the wine still has a rustic edge, with blackberry jam flavors wrapped into firm tannins, and a sweet finish.	Hopland Ranches	85	22
108,381	us	a rich and perfumed honeysuckle character picks up bubblegum on the sweet-leaning nose. it slips toward flatness on the palate, with smoked peach and more bubblegum saying short hellos.	Ipso Facto	86	21
24,724	us	oaky flavors of caramel, honey and butterscotch dominate. it's dry and crisp in acidity, with suggestions of limes and mangoes.	Reserve	85	25
53,123	us	this well-made full-bodied wine exudes a juicy core of red currant, cranberry and vanilla as a persistence of tannin provides power and wooded support. oak and cedar play nicely together and add a wealth of savory concentration.	Artemis	89	60
88,063	australia	firmly tannic, this is the rare example of a lower-priced wine that deserves some time in the cellar. there's a sense of coolness and restraint to this wine at first. hints of menthol lift scents of mixed berries, then develop on the palate into sturdy, chewy fruit flavors and mocha. drink 2018–2030.	Shotfire	90	23
1,947	us	this is a fine, all-purpose red blend, mostly cabernet, with time in one-third new french and american oak. heavily charred, smoky and earthy, it's got a fair amount of dark cassis fruit to carry all the barrel toast and finishes with some notes of bark and stem.	Cow Catcher	87	24
48,113	france	the medium-intense nose opens with scents of ripe stone fruit, caramel apple and candied walnut. medium in weight, there's good lift to the rich, spicy fruit core, with lasting notes of baking spice and peppery warmth on the close.	Ambré	89	18
36,224	italy	red currant, blackberry and cedar aromas mingle in the glass. the focused, elegantly structured palate delivers juicy black cherries, crushed raspberries, tobacco and white pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. a licorice note closes the finish.	Guidalberto	92	55
70,823	france	with vineyards in the marne valley, this champagne house has produced a ripe, soft style. based on grapes from the 2011 harvest, it is still young, although the acidity is softening to bring in ripe apple and green-plum flavors. an underlying ripe fruit character makes it extra attractive.	Intense Brut	89	45
116,244	spain	stalky, mulchy aromas of compost and underripe fruit are a low point on this otherwise decent high-end rioja from a poor vintage. hard and grating across the palate, this tastes stalky, burnt and raw, with oak for cover.	Reserva	85	36
124,213	us	the third reserve by this producer made of this variety, this is 100% estate and varietal. it unfurls in fireplace smoke, red and black berry, leather and tobacco, with an edginess of cedar and herb. the texture is soft and integrated around a full-bodied concentration of flavor.	Estate Grown Cave Fermented Reserve	93	200
119,638	canada	the vines, over 30 years old, deliver layered, racy, detailed flavors. german in style, the wine is loaded with citrus rind, honeysuckle, peach and lemon, finishing with minerals and a lick of honey. intense and tightly structured for aging.	Old Vine	92	27
117,358	chile	spicy plum, berry and herbal aromas cover the bases. this cabernet sauvignon-syrah blend is drawing and pulling on the palate. raw, spicy flavors of toasty plum and herbs finish with a dominant note of wood spice.	Reserva	87	11
66,026	france	there is an attractive yeasty character to this fresh wine. apples and a touch of toast mingle easily on the wine that has some bottle age. it's both crisp and rich, a very satisfying combination.	Premium	90	45
56,422	us	a slightly tawny color and extra spicy, meaty aromas make this appetizing blend of 75% grenache, 17% mourvèdre and 8% syrah interesting to taste. it's medium-bodied, peppery and savory and is backed by moderate berry flavors.	L'Autre	91	30
66,670	us	extremely ripe fruit flavors fuel this full-bodied, no-holds barred wine. the aromas are like blackberry jam and raspberry syrup, and the flavors are almost that extreme, but the wine is technically dry. a very viscous texture wraps it up.	Reserve	88	16
66,305	italy	aromas of exotic spice, blue flowers and withered dark-skinned fruit waft out of the glass. the firm palate delivers fig, nutmeg, coffee, licorice and toasted oak alongside firm, fine-grained tannins, but the fruit is starting to dry up.	Solitario	87	45
40,160	germany	zesty lime pith and lemon notes abound in this lively off-dry riesling. it's feather-light in body yet radiant, offering loads of pristine tangerine and apricot flavors. it's juicy and approachable yet effortlessly elegant. a widely appealing sip to enjoy from now to 2021.	Hattenheim Schützenhaus Kabinett	91	19
15,342	us	off-dry, with pineapple, lime, lemon, grapefruit and vanilla flavors, fortunately balanced with crisp acidity. a decent, clean and affordable white wine for cocktails.	Private Selection	84	11
62,774	us	who puts their lowest-priced pinot noir in 20% new french oak, and includes fruit from their best vineyards in the blend? ponzi does, and the result is a terrific vintage for tavola. bright, compact, aromatic and lushly fruited with plum and black cherry, this is a stunning value. cola, caramel and cinnamon spice add further details and highlights.	Tavola	91	25
113,594	us	there's a firm, clean minerality to this chardonnay, like a lick of cold granite, that shines through the citrus and tropical fruit flavors. a touch of oak brings buttered toast. it's an elegant, food-friendly wine at a price that won't break the bank.	Estate Grown	89	27
32,244	us	from another of the producer's coastal estate sites, this wine is juicy, spicy and leathery—a celebration of fresh wild strawberries and buzzy acidity. earth, rose and white pepper flavors add welcome complexity within a tightly woven frame of structure and length.	Quarter Moon Vineyard Estate Grown	94	75
13,677	italy	despite its name, hi! is actually an understated prosecco with elegant qualities that translate into delicate tones of lemongrass, white stone and peach. it boasts bright acidity and medium intensity and is very refreshing overall.	Hi!	86	13
64,297	us	a skunky scent appears on the nose at first, but it eventually blows off to reveal wooly aromas of white orchard fruit, meyer lemon and nut. this is a mildly concentrated wine with bright acids, and despite its relatively low alcohol, it manages to have some flesh.	Collector's Series	84	25
33,252	france	at this stage, this is a wood-dominated wine. its potential is considerable because beneath this wood and toast awaits a wonderful range of ripe apples, apricots and mango that promise to develop into a full, generous wine. keep until 2018.	Poruzots Premier Cru	92	122
117,234	argentina	hard aromas of tire rubber and black fruits lead to a clampy palate with raw tannins. blackberry and rubber flavors finish on the bitter side.	Portillo Estate Bottled	83	11
5,673	us	this is a very light expression of the grape from a san francisco-based producer, with thyme, chaparral, cranberry, tart pomegranate juice and wet clay on the nose. the palate shows light, tangy cherry juice, fennel, crushed olive and peppery spice. it will work well for fans of this style, but there's not enough there to entertain the mainstream pinot noir fan.	Fiddlestix Vineyard	90	43
60,277	italy	for an entry-level wine, rosso dei notri is a sophisticated and compelling red. a blend of sangiovese (60%), merlot, syrah and cabernet, it boasts dense extraction and a chewy, chunky mouthfeel. aromas include bursting blueberry, talc powder and smoked bacon. bright acidity appears on the finish.	Rosso dei Notri	90	19
116,142	us	this bold, broad-shouldered wine shows focused truffle, gravel and cassis flavors. densely layered, it's 100% varietal, 100% barrel-fermented and further aged in new french oak. with its firm structure, it shows plenty of ability to age and will be best from 2022 through 2023.	Beckstoffer Las Piedras	98	250
44,588	us	the kirsch, cranberry, dried herb, pomegranate and barrel spice aromas are laser focused, with smoked meat notes providing accents. the black fruit flavors are über concentrated and dense. it's wound tightly at first but when it opens up, it delivers.	Cattle King	95	70
71,070	italy	crisp and easy with a pristine and luminous appearance and nice tones of pear and peach blossom, this is a no-fuss white that would pair well with fish or appetizers. the alcohol is a bit high but it offers clean acidity and mineral tones in the mouth for balance.	Greco di Tufo	86	18
58,112	france	the combination of chalk and flint soils has produced a wine that is young and all about minerality at this stage. it has considerable potential with its hints of ripe fruits. for now, with texture dominant, it is still fresh, tangy and developing. drink from 2018.	La Chapelle des Augustins	92	30
65,055	spain	there's a bit of bramble, hard spice and forest fire smoke on the nose, but the palate is largely fresh, with red-fruit flavors such as plum and wild raspberry. the wine is ripe, a bit sweet and solid on the finish. imported by altuve foods and beverage.	Chantal Brut Rosé	86	19
67,730	south africa	this wine opens with an assertively spiced bouquet of gingered white-peach tea, orange blossom, honeysuckle and toasted almond. the palate offers more fruity character in flavors of ripe stone fruit and citrus, but it's still dominated by spicy notes of ginger, clove, anise and honeycomb. drink now.	Harvested by Hand	89	18
8,383	us	tasty, balanced and substantial in body, this wine accents bold berry and black cherry flavors with hints of vanilla and nutmeg. the fruit flavors go deep, while fine-grained tannins frame them perfectly for excellent overall structure and harmony.	Estate Bottled	92	24
39,113	us	as salty as preserved lemon brine, this wine is medium-bodied, with integrated oak, having aged in 33% new french barrels. golden delicious apple and a spicy bite of quince round out the subtle fruit flavors, bolstered by gravelly texture.	Sweetwater Springs Vineyard	91	45
25,152	spain	dry, spicy, woody, earthy berry aromas are common for rioja. this is bouncy and full of tomato-like acidity, while favors of tobacco, reedy berry fruits and spice are a touch green in the middle. on the finish, this is rough but true to the vintage, which was notoriously cold, wet and difficult.	Javier San Pedro Reserva	88	24
20,289	us	bright lime skin, grapefruit pith and soda character show on the nose of this tight and clean bottling from the appellation's vanguard vineyard. the sip is all about texture and energy, with pear-skin flavors that are soft but grippy, plus acidity that is strong but never searing.	Paragon Vineyard	88	17
128,621	france	herbal notes of blossom rise from the glass, with a smoky, flinty accent. the palate presents a honeyed aspect, promising ripe fruit and lusciousness checked by citric pith and zest. it has a pleasant phenolic grip, with the spice of demerara sugar and fir honey amid the citrus freshness. it tempts with a wild, exotic promise.	Cuvée Laurence	91	40
24,850	chile	initially, this smells heavy, earthy, nutty and even a bit raisiny. in the mouth, this is chunky and rich, with pounding tannins. the flavor profile is much like a chocolate parfait, with sweet, nutty, spicy notes. on the finish, copious oak is reflected via clove, mint and wood-spice flavors. drink this lush, sticky carmenère through 2021.	Hacienda Araucano Alka	90	60
112,604	italy	la scolca releases a confusing portfolio of cortese-based wines commemorating various anniversaries and events. thankfully, the fundamental winemaking style is the same: fresh, clean and simple with bright citrus and peach flavors over a zesty close.	90 Years White Label	86	20
103,338	argentina	hard, oily, prickly and not impressive by global sauvignon blanc standards. the palate deals semisour grapefruit and passion fruit flavors, and the finish is a monotone continuation of the primary flavors.	Los Cardos	81	10
38,104	us	this is an easy to drink chardonnay made for drinking now. it's forward in buttered toast, honey, pineapple jam and butterscotch flavors.	Bar Lazy S Ranch	89	45
1,343	us	damp chaparral, dried blueberry, beef and pencil lead scents show on the nose of this blend of 54% grenache, 35% syrah and 11% mourvèdre. rounded blueberry and black plum flavors meet loamy soil, anise, thyme and marjoram spice, with a savory touch of smoke.	Rendition	90	38
113,841	italy	delicate aromas of honeysuckle and pear take shape in the glass. the palate isn't very expressive, but eventually displays light notes of mature yellow apple and dried lemon zest. drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.	San Giacomo	87	26
12,130	portugal	with creamy encruzado and perfumed malvasia in the blend, this is a deliciously full-bodied wine. there is a smoky character as well as a creamy texture. the wine is young and fruity but ready to drink, although it will be better from 2018.	Branco	90	14
82,663	us	made from single (777) clone, organically-grown grapes, the blackjack block pinot noir is focused and complex. the mid-palate shows flesh and fat, ripe berry and cherry fruit, with a backing of citrusy acids. its middle is its strength; it would benefit from blending to add more depth to both front and back.	Blackjack Block	90	75
127,498	chile	at first the nose is scattered, offering iodine and italian herbs but little fruit. in the mouth, blackberries appear. the finish is a bit like coffee. this wine has some character and appeal but also some fading characteristics. maybe this 1998, never a great year, is just too old.	Catalina	85	28
64,690	australia	a lean, crisp style of chardonnay, with citrusy flavors and a touch of honeyed development. drink it over the next few months.	Stone Cutting No Oak	87	20
127,980	us	a split blend of cabernet franc and merlot, this shows a healthy mix of red currant and cranberry on the nose, with an mentholated herbal note adding lift. the palate is plush and round, with mildly grippy tannins and fresh, zippy red-fruit flavors.	Right Bank Abigail's Vineyard Domaine Barrien	87	79
123,479	us	the grape's floral component plays against its dense and inky tannins, making this a complete and relatively soft version of pure petit verdot. it fills in the usual midpalate hole with juicy fruit and softened tannins. it glides—not a word usually found with this as a varietal—into a silky, fruity, sweetly floral finish.	McClellan Estate Vineyard	91	30
64,631	us	pretty basic, a dryly tannic red wine with cherry and herb flavors. feels hard and sharp in the mouth, with astringent tannins and acids. could age out.	Athena	84	20
1,125	us	this wine is tightly wound and thickly colored. full bodied in style, it shows plenty of oak influence, aged in entirely french oak for 16 months, 42% of it new. cranberry and sour cherry dominate in terms of fruit, with an underlying agenda of clove and tea.	Estate Grown	84	38
65,049	france	superripe grenache gives this fortified dessert wine (16% alcohol) distinctly chocolaty overtones, but there's also an overripe note of prunes. despite that, it doesn't pack the alcoholic punch or massive weight of port, making it relatively easy to drink, with an affinity for chocolate desserts.	Rimage	86	26
83,814	us	the aromatics impress with bold notes of lemon tea, orange blossom and key lime. the vineyard's typical minerality is in full force, underscoring bone-dry flavors of wet stone, tarragon, chervil, lime and grapefruit. the density and balance are impressive.	Ribbon Ridge Dry	93	28
10,062	us	this rich cream-textured blend of chardonnay and viognier evokes warming pastry notes of vanilla, caramel and crème brûlée. it's a dry full-bodied wine with soft acidity and accents of toast, smoke and orange peel.	Anemometer	88	35
62,159	spain	the label says it: fermented in barrel. and one sniff delivers the buttery, toasted character of a burgundy or california chardonnay. underneath the oak, there's fine acidity and blazing apple fruit, and once it finishes you get a finely baked aftertaste. an interesting, elevated mix of treixadura, godello, loureira and albariño.	Fermentado en Barrica	90	20
124,373	us	a blend of 70% chardonnay and 30% pinot blanc, this was barrel fermented in 20% new oak, and aged sur lie for a full year. the deep green/gold hue, and the scents of toasted, oiled nuts, tip you off to the fact that this may already drinking at its prime. it's soft, oaky and slightly liquorous.	Charlemagne	88	26

20,223

us

a new effort from jigar vineyards, sourcing some very good grapes, sedition is light, clear and lingering on the palate in cherry-cola, mint and dried herb. balanced and on the lighter side in terms of body and tannin, it's ready for the table, with a juicy, persistent finish.

Chenoweth Vineyards

90

75

116,059

italy

heady aromas suggesting tropical fruit, honeysuckle and citrus zest lead the nose. bright and refreshing, the lively palate offers mature white stone fruit, tangerine peel and a pleasantly bitter-almond note.

Estate Grown

88

10

36,282

new zealand

like several other producers of marlborough sauvignon blanc, jackson estate is trying to make a cuvée that offers something more than stereotypical tropical fruit and fresh herbs. this is a partially barrel-fermented effort that boasts brown sugar and cinnamon aromas, and flavors that mix coffee with lime and passion fruit. it's not entirely harmonious, but offers concentration and innovation, something that should be applauded.

Grey Ghost

87

29

35,431

us

intense concentration and firm structure make this an age-worthy, big and tannic wine. it boasts a deep, dark color, dense ripe blackberry and black cherry aromas and spicy, oaky nuances that add complexity. best after 2019.

Jewel Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

91

55

34,299

chile

standard on the nose, with apple, pear and spice aromas, this is a fruity viognier with sweet flavors of peach and nectarine in front of a finish that starts out juicy but falls off quickly. expect lots of sweet, basic white-fruit character from this warm-vintage wine.

Tama Vineyard Selection

85

15

31,289

israel

dark ruby in color, this wine has a bouquet of black cherry, green pepper and pomegranate. smooth tannins provide a backdrop for flavors of black cherry, cranberry, smoke and mediterranean herbs that recede slightly on the bright cherry finish.

Adama

91

22

114,299

us

pale in color, with a soft, silky body and candied strawberry and vanilla flavors, this blend straddles the line between a red wine and a rosé. you can treat it either way, at room temperature or chilled.

Tess

83

20

348

australia

deep mahogany. dried fig and black tea on the nose, then concentrated mocha and molasses flavors, enlivened by candied orange zest. full, rich and sweet, but surprisingly drinkable, with terrific intensity and length.

Grand

97

100

78,754

italy

dark berry, purple iris and a whiff of cake spice float from the glass. the palate offers up black cherry, blackberry, clove and cinnamon alongside round, smooth tannins. it's already extremely accessible and will provide easy-drinking pleasure for the next few years. drink through 2018.

Riserva

88

35

18,147

france

with vines in the northeast of the gers region, this winery produces impressively ripe red wines. this wood-aged and spicy wine is still young and needs time to integrate the wood with the red berry fruits. it does have weight and potential richness, so give it until 2016.

La Croix d'Arton

88

12

73,934

new zealand

this wine starts on the shy side but with several minutes in glass reveals delicate notes of lemon-lime, watermelon rind and grass along with a touch of butter in the background. it's the palate that's of real interest here. prickly acidity is backed up with a chalky texture, a hint of spice, and a long lemony finish. this is a light and refreshing drop, with a hint of seriousness thrown in for good measure.

Mohua

88

14

15,181

chile

cherry and black fruit aromas are capped by a rubbery note. it feels juicy and fresh, with raspberry, red plum and vanilla flavors. drying but fresh and nice on the finish.

Crucero

87

10

34,332

spain

wiry berry aromas are overripe. this wine feels heavy, sticky and tannic. flavors of baked berry fruits end mulchy and stalky, much like the nose. tempranillo with 10% syrah.

Picos del Montgó

84

11

121,494

austria

yeasty citrus notes dominate the nose while the palate is savory with chervil, sage and more yeast. a vein of crisp citrus acidity pulls it all together. the aftertaste lingers long with lemon zest.

Höhereck Smaragd

90

49

51,552

austria

a finely perfumed wine with aromas of white flowers and honey. the wine has the purest acidity, very citrus and grapefruit, delicious apple skins and a dancing freshness. worth aging, but delicious now.

Kremser Pfaffenberg Reserve

90

25

113,807

us

this is the kind of california pinot noir burgundophiles love to hate. it's so full-bodied and fruity, so forward in currant, chocolate and licorice flavors, that it seems to have nowhere to go — a sin in burgundy. and yet there's no denying its immediate deliciousness. it fools the palate, now honey sweet, now bone dry, but always rich and spicy.

Proximus

90

56

45,252

us

a whiff of spring blossoms introduces this lush richly textured pinot noir rosé. its ripe and fruity, full of succulent berry, cherry and watermelon flavors, yet balanced neatly in acidity. forward and fresh, it make for tempting summer guzzling.

Stony Lonesome Estate Reserve Dry Rosé of

89

16

33,560

italy

fragrant spring flower, citrus blossom and orchard fruit aromas leap from the glass. the slightly off-dry tangy palate presents ripe green apple, white peach and a juicy note of candied lemon drop offset by crisp acidity and a lively perlage.

Extra Dry

88

22

195

italy

this is a mature, jammy wine with thick layers of plum, prune and raisin. the wine's appearance is dark and concentrated and that same sensation of heaviness carries over the palate in the form of black currant and spice. the tannins are firm and tart.

Riserva

87

35

13,466

us

this blend of 50% grenache, 33% mourvèdre and 17% syrah is quite a delicious and full package. the nose is pretty yet also dense and brawny, with aromas of baked black plum, wild blackberry, leather, sagebrush and lightly roasted coffee. there is lots of chalky texture on the palate and a pointed acidity, presenting exotic flavors of plum, mulberry, pepper spice and a touch of nutmeg.

Chosen One

93

38

93,217

italy

here's a delightful and straightforward wine that opens with a delicate fragrance of white spring flowers. the palate offers notes of tropical fruit, lemon zest and a hint of clove. it has a clean, quenching finish.

Salviano

86

16

94,509

italy

intense aromas of white and yellow roses and tropical fruit dominate the nose on this full-bodied wine. the rich, round palate is loaded with ripe tropical fruit, apricot, yellow peach, honey and candied ginger alongside the warmth of alcohol.

Nussbaumer

89

40

22,834

italy

this is a hard prosecco to score. you expect the soft freshness and peachy tones that normally define this category of italian sparkler, yet here, you get a more sophisticated and slightly oxidized expression. the vintage bubbly is made with organically farmed grapes (no sulfites) and offers aromas of pear and apple cider. not for everyone.

Animae Millesimato Brut

86

25

79,393

new zealand

this blend of four bordeaux varieties (40% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 29% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot) is reasonably full in the mouth, with subdued aromas of blackberry and cola. dark berry, earth and mocha flavors finish long and velvety. drink now–2025.

Gimblett Gravels The Gimblett

90

30

12,512

italy

a 75-25 blend of nero d'avola and tannat, naisi is a plump, jammy red with aromas of blackberry, leather and cured meat. the finish is layered with sweet and sour elements.

Naisi

86

22

124,103

argentina

a bit sweaty smelling, with pinched grapefruit aromas and distant citrus. the flavors say generic apple and lime, and there's a flatness to it. it's a little sugary as well. ok for a wine with pronounced low acidity.

Vástago de Gea

83

15

75,727

france

a blend that includes syrah and tannat as well as bordeaux grapes, this is a wood-aged, ripe and rich wine. a tense streak of acidity heightens the effect of the black currant fruits. spice at the end comes from the wood. drink from 2016.

Piaffer

89

27

120,941

austria

hayflowers, summer meadows and ripe pears are conjured up by this wine. the palate is toned with a harmonious interplay of textural power and streamlined freshness. grapefruit zestiness and herbal savoriness complete the tableau.

Alte Reben Reserve

92

27

72,705

france

while the wine is bone-dry, its soft character keeps it from being too steely and tight. aromatic and fresh, it has delicious, juicy apple and green plum flavors. drink from 2015.

Portrait

87

17

102,999

spain

the wine leads with aromas of raisin and black fruits. in the mouth, it feels spiky, with pointed tannins. earthy, stewed plum and baked berry flavors lead to a big, edgy feeling finish with blocky tannins.

Crianza

85

12

44,241

portugal

a vineyard selection is used to make this powerful, super ripe wine. with its opulent flavors, it is as densely packed with fruit as it is with tannins. balanced and gorgeous, this is ready to drink now, yet it will age over several years.

Quinta da Fronteira Grande Escolha

93

60

113,862

france

this aube-based producer has made a fine vintage from a good year. a half-and-half blend of pinot noir and chardonnay, still young and crisp, this concentrated wine brings in apricot as well as citrus fruits into a taut and mineral texture. still full of its baby fruit, it will age well and will be best drunk from 2018.

D Millésimé Brut

93

85

76,874

us

the most affordable of harper voit's 2013 lineup, this deeply aromatic wine offers up a lush mix of rose petals and other perfumed floral scents, along with hints of rhubarb and cherry. elegant on the palate, it's a poised and balanced wine that brings to mind the old line about ginger rogers doing everything fred astaire did, only backwards and in high heels. here the dance includes ripe strawberries, cherries, flowers and a long, graceful encore.

Strandline

92

40

109,139

us

sourced from a host of vineyards, many of them in sonoma county, this is an intensely dark, weighty chardonnay with a taste of sour lemon and apple, rich in oak with a clean finish.

Silver Label

86

15

29,272

france

this big, spicy wine is very smooth and rich now, but also has the potential to age. dusty tannins, perfumed fruits and a rich dense character offer the potential to drink in a year. this is a great expression of cahors.

K-lys

90

24

58,467

us

this blend of 60% syrah and 40% tannat works quite well, with rounded aromas of caramelized blackberry, vanilla and vibrant violets on the nose. black currant, dried herbs and pepper show on the palate, which is nicely balanced and not as unctuous as the nose implies.

Vingence

91

65

47,995

italy

this opens with aromas of toast, oak and a whiff of coffee. the palate is still rather closed but eventually reveals raw cherry, anise, clove and ground pepper accompanied by bracing tannins and racy acidity. a note of dried sage closes the finish.

del Comune di Barolo

88

55

98,600

italy

opening with aromas of ripe orchard fruit, this delightful, informal sparkler offers yellow apple, bartlett pear and just a hint of beeswax. it's fun and fresh, with brisk acidity and a lively perlage.

Garbèl Brut

86

15

56,280

germany

initial aromas of smoke and earth dissipate to reveal scents of rich, honeyed peaches and spice. the palate is bright and sweet with ripe, juicy stonefruit and preserved quince, accented by hints of fresh herbs and ramps. an unusual harmony of sweet and savory, it finishes long and complex.

Abstberg Spätlese

89

40

128,765

france

this limited-production wine shows great structure appropriate for a wine that can age. it has a solid texture, full of rich cherry and black-plum fruits and a fresh line of acidity. the tannins give shape to the wine, which will certainly age. drink from 2017.

Les Charmes

91

25

44,852

spain

a tan color and dusty, tired aromas put this chardonnay on short notice. its plump palate delivers a mix of stone fruit and bitter, skin-based flavors, with a static finish.

Finca del Mar Chardonnay

84

17

78,777

us

the aromas jump up, with mesmerizing notes of fresh herbs, green olive, violets, orange peel, smoked meat and huckleberry. the palate shows a light but pillowy texture alongside flavors that carry on the finish. it's all about subtlety.

Estate

92

48

59,431

us

this particular bottling is a work in progress by veteran brutocao. it's a step forward in their attempt to master cabernet. the wine still has a rustic edge, with blackberry jam flavors wrapped into firm tannins, and a sweet finish.

Hopland Ranches

85

22

108,381

us

a rich and perfumed honeysuckle character picks up bubblegum on the sweet-leaning nose. it slips toward flatness on the palate, with smoked peach and more bubblegum saying short hellos.

Ipso Facto

86

21

24,724

us

oaky flavors of caramel, honey and butterscotch dominate. it's dry and crisp in acidity, with suggestions of limes and mangoes.

Reserve

85

25

53,123

us

this well-made full-bodied wine exudes a juicy core of red currant, cranberry and vanilla as a persistence of tannin provides power and wooded support. oak and cedar play nicely together and add a wealth of savory concentration.

Artemis

89

60

88,063

australia

firmly tannic, this is the rare example of a lower-priced wine that deserves some time in the cellar. there's a sense of coolness and restraint to this wine at first. hints of menthol lift scents of mixed berries, then develop on the palate into sturdy, chewy fruit flavors and mocha. drink 2018–2030.

Shotfire

90

23

1,947

us

this is a fine, all-purpose red blend, mostly cabernet, with time in one-third new french and american oak. heavily charred, smoky and earthy, it's got a fair amount of dark cassis fruit to carry all the barrel toast and finishes with some notes of bark and stem.

Cow Catcher

87

24

48,113

france

the medium-intense nose opens with scents of ripe stone fruit, caramel apple and candied walnut. medium in weight, there's good lift to the rich, spicy fruit core, with lasting notes of baking spice and peppery warmth on the close.

Ambré

89

18

36,224

italy

red currant, blackberry and cedar aromas mingle in the glass. the focused, elegantly structured palate delivers juicy black cherries, crushed raspberries, tobacco and white pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. a licorice note closes the finish.

Guidalberto

92

55

70,823

france

with vineyards in the marne valley, this champagne house has produced a ripe, soft style. based on grapes from the 2011 harvest, it is still young, although the acidity is softening to bring in ripe apple and green-plum flavors. an underlying ripe fruit character makes it extra attractive.

Intense Brut

89

45

116,244

spain

stalky, mulchy aromas of compost and underripe fruit are a low point on this otherwise decent high-end rioja from a poor vintage. hard and grating across the palate, this tastes stalky, burnt and raw, with oak for cover.

Reserva

85

36

124,213

us

the third reserve by this producer made of this variety, this is 100% estate and varietal. it unfurls in fireplace smoke, red and black berry, leather and tobacco, with an edginess of cedar and herb. the texture is soft and integrated around a full-bodied concentration of flavor.

Estate Grown Cave Fermented Reserve

93

200

119,638

canada

the vines, over 30 years old, deliver layered, racy, detailed flavors. german in style, the wine is loaded with citrus rind, honeysuckle, peach and lemon, finishing with minerals and a lick of honey. intense and tightly structured for aging.

Old Vine

92

27

117,358

chile

spicy plum, berry and herbal aromas cover the bases. this cabernet sauvignon-syrah blend is drawing and pulling on the palate. raw, spicy flavors of toasty plum and herbs finish with a dominant note of wood spice.

Reserva

87

11

66,026

france

there is an attractive yeasty character to this fresh wine. apples and a touch of toast mingle easily on the wine that has some bottle age. it's both crisp and rich, a very satisfying combination.

Premium

90

45

56,422

us

a slightly tawny color and extra spicy, meaty aromas make this appetizing blend of 75% grenache, 17% mourvèdre and 8% syrah interesting to taste. it's medium-bodied, peppery and savory and is backed by moderate berry flavors.

L'Autre

91

30

66,670

us

extremely ripe fruit flavors fuel this full-bodied, no-holds barred wine. the aromas are like blackberry jam and raspberry syrup, and the flavors are almost that extreme, but the wine is technically dry. a very viscous texture wraps it up.

Reserve

88

16

66,305

italy

aromas of exotic spice, blue flowers and withered dark-skinned fruit waft out of the glass. the firm palate delivers fig, nutmeg, coffee, licorice and toasted oak alongside firm, fine-grained tannins, but the fruit is starting to dry up.

Solitario

87

45

40,160

germany

zesty lime pith and lemon notes abound in this lively off-dry riesling. it's feather-light in body yet radiant, offering loads of pristine tangerine and apricot flavors. it's juicy and approachable yet effortlessly elegant. a widely appealing sip to enjoy from now to 2021.

Hattenheim Schützenhaus Kabinett

91

19

15,342

us

off-dry, with pineapple, lime, lemon, grapefruit and vanilla flavors, fortunately balanced with crisp acidity. a decent, clean and affordable white wine for cocktails.

Private Selection

84

11

62,774

us

who puts their lowest-priced pinot noir in 20% new french oak, and includes fruit from their best vineyards in the blend? ponzi does, and the result is a terrific vintage for tavola. bright, compact, aromatic and lushly fruited with plum and black cherry, this is a stunning value. cola, caramel and cinnamon spice add further details and highlights.

Tavola

91

25

113,594

us

there's a firm, clean minerality to this chardonnay, like a lick of cold granite, that shines through the citrus and tropical fruit flavors. a touch of oak brings buttered toast. it's an elegant, food-friendly wine at a price that won't break the bank.

Estate Grown

89

27

32,244

us

from another of the producer's coastal estate sites, this wine is juicy, spicy and leathery—a celebration of fresh wild strawberries and buzzy acidity. earth, rose and white pepper flavors add welcome complexity within a tightly woven frame of structure and length.

Quarter Moon Vineyard Estate Grown

94

75

13,677

italy

despite its name, hi! is actually an understated prosecco with elegant qualities that translate into delicate tones of lemongrass, white stone and peach. it boasts bright acidity and medium intensity and is very refreshing overall.

Hi!

86

13

64,297

us

a skunky scent appears on the nose at first, but it eventually blows off to reveal wooly aromas of white orchard fruit, meyer lemon and nut. this is a mildly concentrated wine with bright acids, and despite its relatively low alcohol, it manages to have some flesh.

Collector's Series

84

25

33,252

france

at this stage, this is a wood-dominated wine. its potential is considerable because beneath this wood and toast awaits a wonderful range of ripe apples, apricots and mango that promise to develop into a full, generous wine. keep until 2018.

Poruzots Premier Cru

92

122

117,234

argentina

hard aromas of tire rubber and black fruits lead to a clampy palate with raw tannins. blackberry and rubber flavors finish on the bitter side.

Portillo Estate Bottled

83

11

5,673

us

this is a very light expression of the grape from a san francisco-based producer, with thyme, chaparral, cranberry, tart pomegranate juice and wet clay on the nose. the palate shows light, tangy cherry juice, fennel, crushed olive and peppery spice. it will work well for fans of this style, but there's not enough there to entertain the mainstream pinot noir fan.

Fiddlestix Vineyard

90

43

60,277

italy

for an entry-level wine, rosso dei notri is a sophisticated and compelling red. a blend of sangiovese (60%), merlot, syrah and cabernet, it boasts dense extraction and a chewy, chunky mouthfeel. aromas include bursting blueberry, talc powder and smoked bacon. bright acidity appears on the finish.

Rosso dei Notri

90

19

116,142

us

this bold, broad-shouldered wine shows focused truffle, gravel and cassis flavors. densely layered, it's 100% varietal, 100% barrel-fermented and further aged in new french oak. with its firm structure, it shows plenty of ability to age and will be best from 2022 through 2023.

Beckstoffer Las Piedras

98

250

44,588

us

the kirsch, cranberry, dried herb, pomegranate and barrel spice aromas are laser focused, with smoked meat notes providing accents. the black fruit flavors are über concentrated and dense. it's wound tightly at first but when it opens up, it delivers.

Cattle King

95

70

71,070

italy

crisp and easy with a pristine and luminous appearance and nice tones of pear and peach blossom, this is a no-fuss white that would pair well with fish or appetizers. the alcohol is a bit high but it offers clean acidity and mineral tones in the mouth for balance.

Greco di Tufo

86

18

58,112

france

the combination of chalk and flint soils has produced a wine that is young and all about minerality at this stage. it has considerable potential with its hints of ripe fruits. for now, with texture dominant, it is still fresh, tangy and developing. drink from 2018.

La Chapelle des Augustins

92

30

65,055

spain

there's a bit of bramble, hard spice and forest fire smoke on the nose, but the palate is largely fresh, with red-fruit flavors such as plum and wild raspberry. the wine is ripe, a bit sweet and solid on the finish. imported by altuve foods and beverage.

Chantal Brut Rosé

86

19

67,730

south africa

this wine opens with an assertively spiced bouquet of gingered white-peach tea, orange blossom, honeysuckle and toasted almond. the palate offers more fruity character in flavors of ripe stone fruit and citrus, but it's still dominated by spicy notes of ginger, clove, anise and honeycomb. drink now.

Harvested by Hand

89

18

8,383

us

tasty, balanced and substantial in body, this wine accents bold berry and black cherry flavors with hints of vanilla and nutmeg. the fruit flavors go deep, while fine-grained tannins frame them perfectly for excellent overall structure and harmony.

Estate Bottled

92

24

39,113

us

as salty as preserved lemon brine, this wine is medium-bodied, with integrated oak, having aged in 33% new french barrels. golden delicious apple and a spicy bite of quince round out the subtle fruit flavors, bolstered by gravelly texture.

Sweetwater Springs Vineyard

91

45

25,152

spain

dry, spicy, woody, earthy berry aromas are common for rioja. this is bouncy and full of tomato-like acidity, while favors of tobacco, reedy berry fruits and spice are a touch green in the middle. on the finish, this is rough but true to the vintage, which was notoriously cold, wet and difficult.

Javier San Pedro Reserva

88

24

20,289

us

bright lime skin, grapefruit pith and soda character show on the nose of this tight and clean bottling from the appellation's vanguard vineyard. the sip is all about texture and energy, with pear-skin flavors that are soft but grippy, plus acidity that is strong but never searing.

Paragon Vineyard

88

17

128,621

france

herbal notes of blossom rise from the glass, with a smoky, flinty accent. the palate presents a honeyed aspect, promising ripe fruit and lusciousness checked by citric pith and zest. it has a pleasant phenolic grip, with the spice of demerara sugar and fir honey amid the citrus freshness. it tempts with a wild, exotic promise.

Cuvée Laurence

91

40

24,850

chile

initially, this smells heavy, earthy, nutty and even a bit raisiny. in the mouth, this is chunky and rich, with pounding tannins. the flavor profile is much like a chocolate parfait, with sweet, nutty, spicy notes. on the finish, copious oak is reflected via clove, mint and wood-spice flavors. drink this lush, sticky carmenère through 2021.

Hacienda Araucano Alka

90

60

112,604

italy

la scolca releases a confusing portfolio of cortese-based wines commemorating various anniversaries and events. thankfully, the fundamental winemaking style is the same: fresh, clean and simple with bright citrus and peach flavors over a zesty close.

90 Years White Label

86

20

103,338

argentina

hard, oily, prickly and not impressive by global sauvignon blanc standards. the palate deals semisour grapefruit and passion fruit flavors, and the finish is a monotone continuation of the primary flavors.

Los Cardos

81

10

38,104

us

this is an easy to drink chardonnay made for drinking now. it's forward in buttered toast, honey, pineapple jam and butterscotch flavors.

Bar Lazy S Ranch

89

45

1,343

us

damp chaparral, dried blueberry, beef and pencil lead scents show on the nose of this blend of 54% grenache, 35% syrah and 11% mourvèdre. rounded blueberry and black plum flavors meet loamy soil, anise, thyme and marjoram spice, with a savory touch of smoke.

Rendition

90

38

113,841

italy

delicate aromas of honeysuckle and pear take shape in the glass. the palate isn't very expressive, but eventually displays light notes of mature yellow apple and dried lemon zest. drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.

San Giacomo

87

26

12,130

portugal

with creamy encruzado and perfumed malvasia in the blend, this is a deliciously full-bodied wine. there is a smoky character as well as a creamy texture. the wine is young and fruity but ready to drink, although it will be better from 2018.

Branco

90

14

82,663

us

made from single (777) clone, organically-grown grapes, the blackjack block pinot noir is focused and complex. the mid-palate shows flesh and fat, ripe berry and cherry fruit, with a backing of citrusy acids. its middle is its strength; it would benefit from blending to add more depth to both front and back.

Blackjack Block

90

75

127,498

chile

at first the nose is scattered, offering iodine and italian herbs but little fruit. in the mouth, blackberries appear. the finish is a bit like coffee. this wine has some character and appeal but also some fading characteristics. maybe this 1998, never a great year, is just too old.

Catalina

85

28

64,690

australia

a lean, crisp style of chardonnay, with citrusy flavors and a touch of honeyed development. drink it over the next few months.

Stone Cutting No Oak

87

20

127,980

us

a split blend of cabernet franc and merlot, this shows a healthy mix of red currant and cranberry on the nose, with an mentholated herbal note adding lift. the palate is plush and round, with mildly grippy tannins and fresh, zippy red-fruit flavors.

Right Bank Abigail's Vineyard Domaine Barrien

87

79

123,479

us

the grape's floral component plays against its dense and inky tannins, making this a complete and relatively soft version of pure petit verdot. it fills in the usual midpalate hole with juicy fruit and softened tannins. it glides—not a word usually found with this as a varietal—into a silky, fruity, sweetly floral finish.

McClellan Estate Vineyard

91

30

64,631

us

pretty basic, a dryly tannic red wine with cherry and herb flavors. feels hard and sharp in the mouth, with astringent tannins and acids. could age out.

Athena

84

20

1,125

us

this wine is tightly wound and thickly colored. full bodied in style, it shows plenty of oak influence, aged in entirely french oak for 16 months, 42% of it new. cranberry and sour cherry dominate in terms of fruit, with an underlying agenda of clove and tea.

Estate Grown

84

38

65,049

france

superripe grenache gives this fortified dessert wine (16% alcohol) distinctly chocolaty overtones, but there's also an overripe note of prunes. despite that, it doesn't pack the alcoholic punch or massive weight of port, making it relatively easy to drink, with an affinity for chocolate desserts.

Rimage

86

26

83,814

us

the aromatics impress with bold notes of lemon tea, orange blossom and key lime. the vineyard's typical minerality is in full force, underscoring bone-dry flavors of wet stone, tarragon, chervil, lime and grapefruit. the density and balance are impressive.

Ribbon Ridge Dry

93

28

10,062

us

this rich cream-textured blend of chardonnay and viognier evokes warming pastry notes of vanilla, caramel and crème brûlée. it's a dry full-bodied wine with soft acidity and accents of toast, smoke and orange peel.

Anemometer

88

35

62,159

spain

the label says it: fermented in barrel. and one sniff delivers the buttery, toasted character of a burgundy or california chardonnay. underneath the oak, there's fine acidity and blazing apple fruit, and once it finishes you get a finely baked aftertaste. an interesting, elevated mix of treixadura, godello, loureira and albariño.

Fermentado en Barrica

90

20

124,373

us

a blend of 70% chardonnay and 30% pinot blanc, this was barrel fermented in 20% new oak, and aged sur lie for a full year. the deep green/gold hue, and the scents of toasted, oiled nuts, tip you off to the fact that this may already drinking at its prime. it's soft, oaky and slightly liquorous.

Charlemagne

88

26