sunfu-chou/wine_review · Datasets at Hugging Face

wine_id int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 40 values	description stringlengths 20 764	designation stringlengths 1 95	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 2.01k
56,005	us	this is a lovely, lilting and light version of the variety, so rarely found in this appellation. highly aromatic in white flowers and even a whiff of roses, it dances on the palate, the acidity tight and able to lift the texture to new heights of flavor and freshness. it shows best with food, preferably spicy.	Saralee's Vineyard	92	22
56,043	portugal	this is the latest release of portugal's most iconic wine. it's made only in selected years (the last vintage was 2000) from ferreira's quinta da leda in the douro superior. this new vintage is superb. it's a richly tarry wine laden with dark plum fruits and tannins that are just beginning to mature. it's a ripe and luscious, demanding attention, yet will still age for many years. drink now, or hold until 2020.	Barca Velha	99	426
26,864	france	known for its pink-metallic bottle cover and signature “ace of spades” logo, this fresh-faced wine is crisp and zesty. the wine, with a pale salmon-pink color and lively mousse, is light and full of red-currant fruit that keeps it bright. dry, young and fruity, it's made by the cattier house for entrepreneur and rapper jay z. drink now.	Brut Rosé	89	450
120,342	us	a lovely balance of red fruit and soft texture that's quite enjoyable over the length of a meal from napa-based elyse, which sources the red rhône varietals in this wine from a high-elevation vineyard in the sierra foothills.	C'est Si Bon	89	28
22,305	france	pale pink in the glass, this has a rather fragrant nose that combines strawberry and citrus. the palate is ultralight and very fizzy, exuberant and fresh while remaining dry and full-flavored. yeasty autolysis provides backbone and structure, while the creamy citrus elements make for complete refreshment.	Brut Rosé	90	19
79,940	italy	aromas of scorched earth, underbrush, grilled porcini and black plum emerge. the round, concentrated palate doles out dried black cherry, raspberry compote, anise and nutmeg alongside velvety tannins. thanks to the juicy fruit, you can barely detect the warmth of alcohol on the close.	Cultus Boni Riserva	90	30
58,752	england	lively, crisp apple notes on the nose immediately signal freshness. the palate follows with equally brisk green apple and citrus notes, mellowed fittingly with a very fine, soft and creamy mousse. this is lithe, dew-fresh and of great purity. it conjures up visions of clear brooks, green meadows and budding elderflower. the crisp green-apple notes echo long and make for a totally refreshing, brisk finish.	Blanc de Blancs	91	52
102,624	chile	this perenially mediocre wine is a little worse in 2012. it smells blowsy, floral and strange, while in the mouth it's like oaky apple cider. flavors of cider and faux oak are less than impressive, as is the overall balance.	Sepia Reserva	81	12
69,075	us	chalky and thick, this varietal wine offers a wealth of herbal, vegetative qualities while remaining medium-bodied in the glass, supplemented in violet and cassis.	Estate Grown	86	28
15,471	us	this blend of merlot (40%), cabernet franc (29%), petit verdot (18%) and cabernet sauvignon opens with quite pure aromas of fresh herbs, flowers, anise and red fruit that are followed by sumptuous red-fruit flavors that show vitality.	Exhibition	90	22
34,365	italy	morellino di scansano is a soft, approachable expression of sangiovese from southern tuscany that pairs with grilled sausage and onions, baked beans or baby back ribs. this expression opens with bright cherry and subtle shadings of spice and tobacco.	Tenuta Belguardo Bronzone	88	30
79,410	italy	this barbaresco riserva offers classic rose, leather and truffle aromas. the palate has a core of wild cherry fruit and spice undertones, but it finishes with drying wood tannins.	Campo Quadro Riserva	89	40
33,516	france	this deliciously fruity wine is all about citrus, pear and crisp apple. lively and ready to drink, it will improve through 2016 as the intense acidity softens.	Les Tortues	86	13
75,345	us	this is the least costly of baldacci's '06 cabs, and is quite close in quality to the more expensive bottlings. it's classic napa, showing beautiful tannins framing ripe, juicy flavors of blackberries, black currants, plums and smoky cedar. combines power with elegance, and should develop over the next six years.	IV Sons	91	35
11,489	us	the trick to getting a cabernet sauvignon this ripe and oaky is to provide balance, and in this, écluse has succeeded. made from 100% cabernet, it's enormously rich in blackberries and black currants, with dark chocolate, licorice and spice adding complexity. the tannins are, in a word, gorgeous. with high alcohol, the mouthfeel has a cognac-like warmth, but doesn't feel uncomfortably hot. drink now for fresh fruitiness.	Reserve Lock Vineyard	92	69
3,604	us	the new oak barrel flavors stick out aggressively, and help to create a strong impression of drying tannins. the fruit is light and chalky, with young vine flavors of generic red berries.	Spice Cabinet Vineyard	86	33
51,307	us	the aromas on this wine are surprisingly blue fruited for a cabernet, followed by notes of herb, green pepper and spice. the flavors are lightly sweet, followed by a spice-filled finish. it's a straightforward quaffer that doesn't quite show its variety.	ECO	85	13
31,248	us	the dominant aromas are smoke, toast, and cinnamon, which ride over tart-cherry fruit. turns quite stemmy and tough on the finish. drink young--with a piece of rare beef to help tame the tannins.	Hargrave Vineyard	84	35
68,526	argentina	a high-end malbec experience at a reasonable price, this boasts rich aromas of cola, graphite and boysenberry that leap from the glass. the palate is bright and just thick enough, with wild berry, cherry, plum and oak-based flavors. another whack of oak, along with vanilla, chocolate and tobacco flavors, graces the finish. drink now–2015.	Finca Las Palmas	91	25
91,897	us	deep gold in color, this vineyard designate is oaky, with gingerbread, caramel and canned pineapple flavors. it's full, unctuous and creamy on the palate.	Sangiacomo Vineyard	86	30
73,499	france	earth, apple and citrus align on the nose. the palate brings out more earthiness but also pits the notions of mellow baked apple against absolutely tart lemon freshness. stone and earth cling constantly to these flavors and draw you in. the palate is pure and slender, totally dry and taut. the finish is of lasting lemon zest. this needs time but is full of promise. drink 2020–2035.	Altenberg de Bergbieten Grand Cru	94	33
81,717	us	hints of caramelized sugar lend warmth to this fresh fruity wine full of nectarine and grapefruit flavors. it's rich in body with a luscious, mouthfilling cling off set by sunny tangerine acidity. enjoy now through 2018.	Island Series	87	22
110,852	us	with a pale straw color, this brut is properly dry and crisp, although it does have a honey-sweet richness. it shows citrus and pear flavors, with the yeasty, doughy earthiness of a good sparkling wine. a little scoury and fairly priced, it's a fine bubbly to drink now.	Brut Made With Organically Grown Grapes	87	13
73,422	spain	aromas of tomato, spiced cherry, leather and fresh herbs are clean and appealing. a standard, balanced mouthfeel is medium in body, with dry, woody flavors of peppery plum and berry fruits. minty and darker on the finish.	Pergolas Old Vines Crianza	86	14
128,326	argentina	weinert holds its wines back longer than almost any other argentine winery, hence when you get a blend like this it's mature and ready. this is maderized, with aromas of earth, citrus, tobacco and mushroom. the palate is tight and houses tobacco, mocha, citrus and dried raspberry flavors. if you like aged rioja, this is for you. the blend is malbec, cabernet and merlot.	Carrascal	90	16
280	austria	a strongly spicy, rich wine, this has great concentration and an intense, dense texture.there is weight with plenty of ripe tropical fruits to contrast pronounced black pepper and bitter almond character. it's still young, so don't drink before 2015. screwcap.	Schiefer Reserve	92	24
66,108	italy	young and fruit-driven, this straightforward wine opens with aromas of ripe black and red-skinned fruit accompanied by a whiff of spice rack. the chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, star anise and orange zest alongside vibrant acidity. enjoy through 2016.	Madama	87	17
26,344	us	a bright pinkish-orange color makes this light-bodied wine stand out from the beginning, fresh watermelon and cherry flavors carry on the rounded palate, with a slight sweetness giving softness.	Summit Ridge White	86	8
46,212	australia	there is 8g/l of residual sugar, so some tasters might object to a hint of sweetness, but others will just find it helps to accentuate the wine's fruit-forward nature. pear and fig flavors pick up some honeyed stone fruit notes on the palate but this is nicely balanced and easy to drink.	Poacher's Blend	87	12
26,417	italy	here's a bright wine that offers sensations of yellow and green apples accented with notes of ginger and citrus alongside lively acidity. the crisp palate ends on a clean, refreshing note. pair with grilled vegetables or lightly seasoned seafood.	Punggl	88	17
46,380	us	this blend of 42% petit verdot, 36% sangiovese and 22% merlot shows strawberry, light caramel and expressive baking-spice aromas on the nose. a powerful burst of acidity starts the palate, which combines red currant and purple-flower flavors into a very interesting and lively wine.	Tre Vini Flood Family Vineyards	91	22
105,986	us	a fresh, crisp, clean young pinot noir that shows the silkiness and relative transparency of many carneros pinots. it's a bit thin, compared to more full-bodied versions, but elegant and dry, with flavors of cherryskins, cola and sandalwood. now–2012.	Vero	87	28
121,061	spain	a clear shot of oak hits first on the nose, followed by melon and mild citrus notes. despite its age, this is still fresh and in balance due to good core acidity. yeasty, lightly resiny flavors come with notes of briny citrus, while an oaky-tasting finish is steady due to the aforementioned acidity. drink now.	Navia	90	32
74,488	portugal	aged for 18 months in oak, this richly structured wine is powerful and concentrated. bitter chocolate vies with ripe, juicy berry fruits to give a wine that is both firm and extracted, but also generous. the wine is ready to drink.	Grande Reserva Tinto	89	30
28,234	us	from 41-year-old vines on just over five estate acres, this is resiny and briny on the nose. a honey-laced creaminess at the core is tensely accentuated by vibrant acidity. balanced and elegant, with a sunny bite of ripeness, it revels in nuances of fresh and dried apricot while lighter notes of lemon, lime and grapefruit play backup.	Estate Bottled	93	27
88,568	us	once known as nugent vineyard, winside is a blend of dijon and pommard clones that's on the more robust side, especially in this climatically perfect vintage. offering exuberant red cherry fruit and layers of cola and milk chocolate, it's ready to enjoy with pork tenderloin and similarly hearty fare.	Winside Vineyard	90	44
26,479	chile	opens like a full-bore barrel buster with heavy char and leather. with time it settles on coffee, toast, chocolate and fig aromas. the palate is big and chewy, with peppery, toasty blackberry fruit and then more toast and coffee on the finish. seems as much about the barrel as the fruit.	Reserva	88	14
112,043	us	herb, anise, baking-spice, smoke and dark-fruit aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors surrounded by velvety tannins. the balance is just about spot on.	Fidelitas Estate Vineyard	89	75
127,045	portugal	a blend of aragonez, syrah and touriga nacional, this is a crisp wine, full of raspberry fruits and a soft texture. it is attractive with its balance of acidity and fruit, and is very ready to drink.	Ciconia	85	12
98,026	france	this wine is soft and rounded with attractive red-cherry fruits, ripe strawberries and touches of wood and tannin. acidity comes along behind this richness. it is going to develop quickly and will give great pleasure. drink from 2018.	Les Charmes Premier Cru	91	153
15,042	us	no one will ever complain that this napa valley-sonoma county blend isn't fruity enough. it's deliciously explosive in jammy blackberries, cassis, cherries and milk chocolate. oak adds notes of caramel. but flavor isn't everything, and this wine would benefit from greater restraint and structural integrity.	Encomium	88	70
43,730	france	this medium-bodied wine combines grilled cherries with meaty, savory notes. it's not the biggest, baddest or boldest, but it is nicely harmonious and fruit-forward, with a long, mouthwatering finish. drink it over the next year or two.	Les Grès	88	15
13,400	australia	bursting with bold, fully ripe fruit notes of pear and peach, followed up with tropical notes, this is a lush fruit bomb of a chardonnay to drink over the near term (3–4 months).	Flying Piano Hand Select	86	11
1,640	portugal	tinta miúda, known as the rare graciano grape in spain, is not often found in portugal. here it makes a ripe, juicy and jammy wine that's soft, with only a minimum of tannins to keep it together. it has a typically warm character and is ready to drink.	Tinta Miúda	85	12
75,817	portugal	produced in the vineyards of estremoz, the marble capital of portugal, this wine is a ready-to-drink blend of red fruits and soft tannins. a juicy character gives it a crisp aftertaste. drink the wine now.	Album Lua Cheia em Vinhas Velhas	87	9
123,176	spain	berry aromas with a hint of pine and juniper form the opening on this fresh-style rioja. a quick wash of red plum and raspberry flavors comes with an herbal leaning and minty notes. this finishes firm but light in weight, with a minty aftertaste.	Tinto	85	10
24,262	spain	black-fruit aromas are forceful, toasty and gritty. it feels solid, fruity and full bodied, with black fruit flavors that come across ripe and generous. it's oaky but not overly so.	LZ	87	18
35,939	us	this vineyard is a premier site for this variety, taming the mean, green aromas and flavors it can be associated with. aromas of peppery spices, green herbs and cherry are followed by soft, sultry dark fruit flavors that show exquisite balance and length.	Seven Hills Vineyard	91	36
10,599	us	rich black-cherry pie, vanilla and spice notes mark this intensely aromatic bordeaux-style blend made of 60% cabernet franc augmented with equal proportions of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. the palate is bright with tart sour-cherry flavor wrapped in layers of velvety smooth tannins. finishes moderately long.	Rob Roy	87	45
57,584	france	wood and fruit balance in this rich and full wine. the yellow and citrus fruits give a good mix of ripeness and a fresher, more mineral character. the toast, just the right amount, gives the warmth and polish the wine needs. the result is a serious wine, still young, to be drunk from 2018.	Vaudésir Grand Cru	93	93
73,229	us	this is the inaugural release from this oregon-based winery, with the fruit coming from loess and seven hills vineyards. a blend of cabernet sauvignon (54%), merlot (38%) and petit verdot, it offers laromas of pencil box, high-toned flowers, bittersweet chocolate, herbs and barrel spices. the flavors show depth and intensity as well as exquisite balance and length.	Proprietary	92	75
57,967	italy	made entirely with sangiovese, this fresh wine opens with aromas of black cherry and freshly ground pepper that carry over to the palate along with notes of black raspberry and a hint of orange rind. racy acidity and supple tannins provide the framework. it's easy-drinking, so enjoy soon.	Locorosso	87	15
61,699	chile	even among value-priced cabs from chile, this one isn't offering much. the nose is sharp and brambly, with a hint of stem that takes a while to loosen its grip. the palate is made up of bitter-tinged raspberry flavors and short, choppy tannins. seems more short on substance than in the past.	Estate	83	14
38,949	us	concentrated and lively, this showcases luscious black cherry fruit that's perfectly framed with zippy acidity and ripe tannins. it's a full-bodied, new world style, but with a complex, layered finish that says oregon rather than california.	Estates Reserve	94	75
75,852	us	the chateau's reserve is not their best chardonnay (that honor belongs to the cold creek) but it's their most accessible, made in a powerful, lush style with softer fruit and more obvious new oak. fleshy, full-bodied and showing lively spice, it's a drink-me-now pleasure.	Reserve	90	31
78,255	us	for all the richness, and there's plenty of it in the pineapple, meyer lemondrop and vanilla notes, this chard has a gunmetal minerality that grounds it. the “nu” designation indicates that it's unoaked.	Estate Grown Nu	87	18
124,940	france	the nose suggests ripe, bruised apples and a touch of apple crumble, while the palate also has a mellow aspect, helped along by a little residual sugar to make this wine off dry. sufficient freshness balances things out but the overall impression is one of rounded mellowness. lemon becomes apparent on the finish.	Coup de Foudre	89	19
45,955	bulgaria	a heady aroma of cherry, coffee and clove with a whiff of mint paves the way for luscious flavors of raspberry, pomegranate and eucalyptus. this wine is silky in the mouth, with a fleeting impression of pomegranate and mint at the soft finish.	Enira	90	15
128,636	us	vanilla cream, marzipan and apple custard hit the nose on this creamy, dairy-inflected bottling, but a fine line of key-lime rind balances things. pan-seared apples in lemon juice mesh well with saffron and dandelion as well as buttered toast with lime marmalade on the dynamic palate.	Sierra Madre Vineyard	91	30
41,497	austria	smells nice enough, with rich custardy aromas, freshly baked sweetened piecrust, and peaches and vanilla. it tastes much drier than you'd think, given the opening. delicate peach and hazelnut flavors are offset by decent, not great, acidity. in fact, if the acids were higher, the wine would be better. —s.h.	Gelber	86	23
7,621	new zealand	unmistakably a kiwi pinot noir, with notes of dr. pepper, ripe bramble fruit, oaky spices and tree bark, it loses it's way a little on the palate, lacking the juicy fruit to stand up to all the oak.	Three Paddles	87	20
51,536	us	a bone-dry, slightly green sauvignon blanc, with lemongrass and gooseberry flavors, boosted with vibrant acidity. feels elegant and sleek, but won't appeal to everyone. the grapes for this unoaked wine came from sonoma and lake counties.	Tradition	86	30
102,773	france	with a sense of structure and balance between honey and fruit, this is an attractive, food-friendly wine. it is off dry although the spice core gives a drier edge. allow the wine a few more months in bottle; drink from late 2015.	Tradition	86	25
26,307	spain	scratchy, minty aromas are the opening on this rough and rugged blend of tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon. in the mouth, this is hard as nails, with extreme tannic bite. flavors of blackberry and chocolate are ripe and satisfying, while resiny oak, baking spice notes and rough tannnins define the finish.	Cala N. 2	87	22
62,734	france	soft-fruited champagne, with pear and pink grapefruit flavors. it has a bitter almond edge that cuts through the acidity. the finish is soft, towards the sweet end of brut.	Blue Top Brut	85	35
58,198	us	this wine intrigues with its aromas of peppery spices, tobacco and purple fruit. the flavors are lush and focused, bringing a lot of hedonistic pleasure, though it trails a bit toward the finish.	Anderson Estate Vineyard	88	20
126,876	portugal	the wine is crisp and as light as a feather. the fruitiness brings with it apple and pink grapefruit as well as warmer golden plums and a perfumed aftertaste. drink the wine now.	Coreto Branco	84	9
53,985	us	tastes hot as a chile pepper, and no wonder. the alcohol is 15.8%. some red wines get away with it, but this one doesn't. the berry-cherry flavors are baked, and the wine is clumsy and inelegant.	Holystone	82	27
73,566	italy	vernaccia rondolino opens with fragrant aromas of citrus, green apple and passion fruit. the mouthfeel is lean and compact, but there's a nice touch of zesty freshness on the close.	Rondolino	85	12
87,345	us	this wine is a blend of tempranillo (63%), graciano (26%) and garnacha. appealing aromas of red fruit, spice, cocoa and toasty barrel accents give way to fruit and barrel flavors brightened by tart acidity and supported by lightly grainy tannins. it's an intriguing blend of these varieties that shows impeccable balance and impressive length.	Corrida	91	34
45,320	us	fermented in neutral oak barrels and aged sur lie for 7 months, this wine, which includes 6% viognier, brings herb, honeycomb, pear and orange peel aromas. it drinks dry, with sleek, citrusy flavors.	Stillwater Creek Vineyard	88	23
86,012	us	pretty in orange and pink, this sparkling rosé is 75% pinot noir and 25% chardonnay, creamy in texture with a pleasing taste of strawberries and cream atop a homemade biscuit. with solid acidity, it'll be both an attractive and effective addition to your springtime brunch or lunch table.	Sparkling Rosé	88	22
29,925	argentina	melon and citrus aromas are clean and easy, not pungent. this feels good, with limited but solid white-grapefruit and orange flavors. a dry juicy finish tastes mildly bitter but isn't too severe.	Reserva	86	10
47,568	spain	this big, jammy syrah is packed with spice, baked plum and blackberry aromas. in the mouth, it's wide and voluminous. flavors of blackberry are fully ripe, while blueberry and pepper flavors are long and lasting on the finish.	Venta la Ossa	88	22
73,284	us	the hot climate in which the grapes were grown shows in this wine's extreme softness and jammy ripeness. it's almost sweet, like a cherry and raspberry pastry.	Reserve	84	18
38,638	us	this is a blend of cabernet, pinot, sangiovese, zin and three other varieties, and it will please fruit-forward fans for its wealth of cherries, raspberries, cola and peppermint candy flavors.	Rosato	84	17
37,651	us	treana has enjoyed great success with this blend of viognier and marsanne, which is one of the best rhône-style white wines in california. the main reason is the source of the grapes. the vineyard, owned by the wagners of caymus, is stellar. the '06 is as rich and crisply acidic as ever, with fantastically complex, honeyed tropical fruit, apricot and floral flavors that taste like they have a touch of botrytis.	Mer Soleil Vineyard	94	25
127,507	chile	despite not being overly dense or powerful, the nose features ample berry aromas and a hint of herbal essence. the mouth delivers plum, cherry and berry fruit and then it goes spicy and oaky on the drying finish. though not big and fat, there's substance and plenty of taste here.	Grand Reserve Vitisterra	85	13
37,713	spain	this is floral on the nose, but also candied smelling. so don't be surprised that the palate, while friendly and fruity, is also sticky in feel with a syrupy core flavor that's suggestive of residual sugar. that said, this jellybean is an easy drinker.	Berry Smooth	85	13
72,337	italy	aged for one year in barriques, this is dominated by raw oak and butterscotch aromas that carry over to the palate alongside lemon and pineapple flavors. while it's an understandable effort to differentiate it from other wines made from pecorino, it doesn't possess enough fruit richness to support the wood sensations.	Io sono Gaia non sono Lucrezia	86	29
79,461	us	a one-of-a-kind 100% sangiovese from cadaretta, this pure and expressive wine shows concentrated strawberry fruit presented in a balanced style with acids and tannins in perfect proportion. there is no hint of new oak, just a softening from barrel aging, and a lovely presentation of the pretty young fruit.	Highclimber	88	50
43,962	us	a really nice sparkling wine from gloria ferrer. mostly pinot noir, with some chardonnay, it has a dark copper color and is full-bodied and rich in raspberry and strawberry flavors. feels crisp and satisfying. best over the next few years.	Brut Rosé	91	42
58,316	france	still in its first flush of youth, it shows great minerality as well as intense citrus and apple fruit flavors. a light touch of ripeness brings out a more yellow fruit character. drink now, but better to keep until 2015.	Sancerre le Rochoy	91	30
129,102	chile	roasted, balsamic aromas suggest tomato, coffee grinds and a pinch of herbal green in addition to standard berry and cassis notes. pulsing acidity creates a lively, dancing mouthfeel. flavors of herbal plum and light cherry finish scratchy and edgy, with a mild chocolate flavor.	Propuesta	87	10
114,277	italy	this wine definitely shows a ripe side in its cured meat, tobacco, sandalwood, smoked bacon and old spice. delivers a rich, plump feel in the mouth, backed by gritty tannins and bright acidity. despite the cooler vintage, this wine packs power, heat and a tiny touch of sweetness on the close.	Riserva	91	79
12,416	australia	a full, not overly extracted style of shiraz with deep aromas of licorice, earth, tar, prunes and a lovely creamy note. plum and blackberry flavors with soy and smoke accents fill the palate, and as the wine closes it displays good length with fruit and spice flavors.	Reserve	88	46
40,661	australia	the de bortoli family does a solid job with chardonnay—even this entry-level wine shows some complexity and finesse. hints of smoke and graphite frame bright pineapple and lime flavors, delivered without excessive weight or richness.	DB Family Selection	85	9
33,033	italy	here's a strongly mineral-driven expression of chardonnay with a polished, linear appeal in its clean aromas and crisp mouthfeel. the wine is luminous and light and would pair with seafood or a fresh caesar salad.	Libaio	87	12
957	us	the great ritchie vineyard, a renowned site for chardonnay, also possesses highly sought-after sauvignon blanc. here, it shows as grassy in pea shoots and thick, with a voluptuous texture and body weight.	Ritchie Vineyard	87	24
123,282	us	this wine shows smooth red fruit that is light and generic, with modest weight and an earthy flavor. the wine spent a bit of time in 25% new oak, though it doesn't show up in the flavors.	The Attaché	87	40
92,190	italy	this wine opens with stewed plum, used leather, vanilla and coconut aromas. the palate is evolved, offering prune, espresso and sage flavors, with close-grained tannins that leave an astringent finish.	Riserva dei Mandorli	87	55
3,851	us	spicy and assertive, this young, cellar-worthy pinot noir just hints at the complexity within. give it plenty of air time and it opens aromatically with allspice, sandalwood, perhaps some cola and pine needle. the tart and tangy berry fruit is still compact and primary, but fully ripe and nicely sculpted into a well-defined wine from start to finish.	Arcus Estate	92	100
6,226	portugal	adding syrah (shiraz as the producer calls it) to the blend with tinta roriz and touriga nacional gives a strongly perfumed character to this firm, still structured wine. it also has a fresh element from the black currant acidity that cuts through the wine. drink now.	Brigando	85	10
106,876	us	as usual, this was sourced entirely from a small block in the dineen vineyard. fragrant with a mélange of lemony aromas, the flavors carry the same theme—lemon gelato, lemon pie, limoncello, all buoyed with perfect acidity. it's a vivid, clean, long-lasting wine.	StevensDivio	92	21
16,727	us	this opens with juicy cranberry and cherry fruit, remaining concentrated through the core palate. good as it is, the wine fades more quickly than its reserve siblings, which would suggest drinking this one first while the others gain further time in bottle.	Tallulah's Run Reserve	90	65
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.	Coroa d'Ouro	88	12
113,816	austria	from one of the high vineyards on the slopes of the schrattenthal, this complex riesling has a fine initial raciness, then opens into perfumed white fruits touched by spice, apricots and a layer of tense minerality. age for 2–3 years. screwcap.	Innere Bergen	90	23
69,505	us	with an extra-deep color and smoky-sweet oak aromas, this wine doesn't taste like its peer group, but seems to be going for commercial appeal as a spiced-up generic red. it's full bodied, almost thick in texture and firmly tannic.	Misbehaved	84	16
9,777	germany	rich, viscous and sweet, this is a spätlese that punches above its weight. a bit of dried apricot hints at the inclusion of some botrytized grapes, while the rest of the fruit shows superripe flavors of peaches and honey. this is long on the finish, clinging to the palate. imported by chapin cellars, llc.	Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Spätlese	92	28
23,969	italy	here's an outstanding chianti classico made from 80% sangiovese, 10% pugnitello and 10% colorino that opens with earthy aromas of underbrush, leather, violet, dark spices and red berries. the structured palate delivers rich black cherry, black pepper, clove and balsamic herbs alongside bracing yet refined tannins. it still shows some youthful aggression, so give it time to soften and develop complexity. drink 2015–2025.	Poggio Rosso Riserva	94	50

56,005

us

this is a lovely, lilting and light version of the variety, so rarely found in this appellation. highly aromatic in white flowers and even a whiff of roses, it dances on the palate, the acidity tight and able to lift the texture to new heights of flavor and freshness. it shows best with food, preferably spicy.

Saralee's Vineyard

92

22

56,043

portugal

this is the latest release of portugal's most iconic wine. it's made only in selected years (the last vintage was 2000) from ferreira's quinta da leda in the douro superior. this new vintage is superb. it's a richly tarry wine laden with dark plum fruits and tannins that are just beginning to mature. it's a ripe and luscious, demanding attention, yet will still age for many years. drink now, or hold until 2020.

Barca Velha

99

426

26,864

france

known for its pink-metallic bottle cover and signature “ace of spades” logo, this fresh-faced wine is crisp and zesty. the wine, with a pale salmon-pink color and lively mousse, is light and full of red-currant fruit that keeps it bright. dry, young and fruity, it's made by the cattier house for entrepreneur and rapper jay z. drink now.

Brut Rosé

89

450

120,342

us

a lovely balance of red fruit and soft texture that's quite enjoyable over the length of a meal from napa-based elyse, which sources the red rhône varietals in this wine from a high-elevation vineyard in the sierra foothills.

C'est Si Bon

89

28

22,305

france

pale pink in the glass, this has a rather fragrant nose that combines strawberry and citrus. the palate is ultralight and very fizzy, exuberant and fresh while remaining dry and full-flavored. yeasty autolysis provides backbone and structure, while the creamy citrus elements make for complete refreshment.

Brut Rosé

90

19

79,940

italy

aromas of scorched earth, underbrush, grilled porcini and black plum emerge. the round, concentrated palate doles out dried black cherry, raspberry compote, anise and nutmeg alongside velvety tannins. thanks to the juicy fruit, you can barely detect the warmth of alcohol on the close.

Cultus Boni Riserva

90

30

58,752

england

lively, crisp apple notes on the nose immediately signal freshness. the palate follows with equally brisk green apple and citrus notes, mellowed fittingly with a very fine, soft and creamy mousse. this is lithe, dew-fresh and of great purity. it conjures up visions of clear brooks, green meadows and budding elderflower. the crisp green-apple notes echo long and make for a totally refreshing, brisk finish.

Blanc de Blancs

91

52

102,624

chile

this perenially mediocre wine is a little worse in 2012. it smells blowsy, floral and strange, while in the mouth it's like oaky apple cider. flavors of cider and faux oak are less than impressive, as is the overall balance.

Sepia Reserva

81

12

69,075

us

chalky and thick, this varietal wine offers a wealth of herbal, vegetative qualities while remaining medium-bodied in the glass, supplemented in violet and cassis.

Estate Grown

86

28

15,471

us

this blend of merlot (40%), cabernet franc (29%), petit verdot (18%) and cabernet sauvignon opens with quite pure aromas of fresh herbs, flowers, anise and red fruit that are followed by sumptuous red-fruit flavors that show vitality.

Exhibition

90

22

34,365

italy

morellino di scansano is a soft, approachable expression of sangiovese from southern tuscany that pairs with grilled sausage and onions, baked beans or baby back ribs. this expression opens with bright cherry and subtle shadings of spice and tobacco.

Tenuta Belguardo Bronzone

88

30

79,410

italy

this barbaresco riserva offers classic rose, leather and truffle aromas. the palate has a core of wild cherry fruit and spice undertones, but it finishes with drying wood tannins.

Campo Quadro Riserva

89

40

33,516

france

this deliciously fruity wine is all about citrus, pear and crisp apple. lively and ready to drink, it will improve through 2016 as the intense acidity softens.

Les Tortues

86

13

75,345

us

this is the least costly of baldacci's '06 cabs, and is quite close in quality to the more expensive bottlings. it's classic napa, showing beautiful tannins framing ripe, juicy flavors of blackberries, black currants, plums and smoky cedar. combines power with elegance, and should develop over the next six years.

IV Sons

91

35

11,489

us

the trick to getting a cabernet sauvignon this ripe and oaky is to provide balance, and in this, écluse has succeeded. made from 100% cabernet, it's enormously rich in blackberries and black currants, with dark chocolate, licorice and spice adding complexity. the tannins are, in a word, gorgeous. with high alcohol, the mouthfeel has a cognac-like warmth, but doesn't feel uncomfortably hot. drink now for fresh fruitiness.

Reserve Lock Vineyard

92

69

3,604

us

the new oak barrel flavors stick out aggressively, and help to create a strong impression of drying tannins. the fruit is light and chalky, with young vine flavors of generic red berries.

Spice Cabinet Vineyard

86

33

51,307

us

the aromas on this wine are surprisingly blue fruited for a cabernet, followed by notes of herb, green pepper and spice. the flavors are lightly sweet, followed by a spice-filled finish. it's a straightforward quaffer that doesn't quite show its variety.

ECO

85

13

31,248

us

the dominant aromas are smoke, toast, and cinnamon, which ride over tart-cherry fruit. turns quite stemmy and tough on the finish. drink young--with a piece of rare beef to help tame the tannins.

Hargrave Vineyard

84

35

68,526

argentina

a high-end malbec experience at a reasonable price, this boasts rich aromas of cola, graphite and boysenberry that leap from the glass. the palate is bright and just thick enough, with wild berry, cherry, plum and oak-based flavors. another whack of oak, along with vanilla, chocolate and tobacco flavors, graces the finish. drink now–2015.

Finca Las Palmas

91

25

91,897

us

deep gold in color, this vineyard designate is oaky, with gingerbread, caramel and canned pineapple flavors. it's full, unctuous and creamy on the palate.

Sangiacomo Vineyard

86

30

73,499

france

earth, apple and citrus align on the nose. the palate brings out more earthiness but also pits the notions of mellow baked apple against absolutely tart lemon freshness. stone and earth cling constantly to these flavors and draw you in. the palate is pure and slender, totally dry and taut. the finish is of lasting lemon zest. this needs time but is full of promise. drink 2020–2035.

Altenberg de Bergbieten Grand Cru

94

33

81,717

us

hints of caramelized sugar lend warmth to this fresh fruity wine full of nectarine and grapefruit flavors. it's rich in body with a luscious, mouthfilling cling off set by sunny tangerine acidity. enjoy now through 2018.

Island Series

87

22

110,852

us

with a pale straw color, this brut is properly dry and crisp, although it does have a honey-sweet richness. it shows citrus and pear flavors, with the yeasty, doughy earthiness of a good sparkling wine. a little scoury and fairly priced, it's a fine bubbly to drink now.

Brut Made With Organically Grown Grapes

87

13

73,422

spain

aromas of tomato, spiced cherry, leather and fresh herbs are clean and appealing. a standard, balanced mouthfeel is medium in body, with dry, woody flavors of peppery plum and berry fruits. minty and darker on the finish.

Pergolas Old Vines Crianza

86

14

128,326

argentina

weinert holds its wines back longer than almost any other argentine winery, hence when you get a blend like this it's mature and ready. this is maderized, with aromas of earth, citrus, tobacco and mushroom. the palate is tight and houses tobacco, mocha, citrus and dried raspberry flavors. if you like aged rioja, this is for you. the blend is malbec, cabernet and merlot.

Carrascal

90

16

280

austria

a strongly spicy, rich wine, this has great concentration and an intense, dense texture.there is weight with plenty of ripe tropical fruits to contrast pronounced black pepper and bitter almond character. it's still young, so don't drink before 2015. screwcap.

Schiefer Reserve

92

24

66,108

italy

young and fruit-driven, this straightforward wine opens with aromas of ripe black and red-skinned fruit accompanied by a whiff of spice rack. the chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, star anise and orange zest alongside vibrant acidity. enjoy through 2016.

Madama

87

17

26,344

us

a bright pinkish-orange color makes this light-bodied wine stand out from the beginning, fresh watermelon and cherry flavors carry on the rounded palate, with a slight sweetness giving softness.

Summit Ridge White

86

8

46,212

australia

there is 8g/l of residual sugar, so some tasters might object to a hint of sweetness, but others will just find it helps to accentuate the wine's fruit-forward nature. pear and fig flavors pick up some honeyed stone fruit notes on the palate but this is nicely balanced and easy to drink.

Poacher's Blend

87

12

26,417

italy

here's a bright wine that offers sensations of yellow and green apples accented with notes of ginger and citrus alongside lively acidity. the crisp palate ends on a clean, refreshing note. pair with grilled vegetables or lightly seasoned seafood.

Punggl

88

17

46,380

us

this blend of 42% petit verdot, 36% sangiovese and 22% merlot shows strawberry, light caramel and expressive baking-spice aromas on the nose. a powerful burst of acidity starts the palate, which combines red currant and purple-flower flavors into a very interesting and lively wine.

Tre Vini Flood Family Vineyards

91

22

105,986

us

a fresh, crisp, clean young pinot noir that shows the silkiness and relative transparency of many carneros pinots. it's a bit thin, compared to more full-bodied versions, but elegant and dry, with flavors of cherryskins, cola and sandalwood. now–2012.

Vero

87

28

121,061

spain

a clear shot of oak hits first on the nose, followed by melon and mild citrus notes. despite its age, this is still fresh and in balance due to good core acidity. yeasty, lightly resiny flavors come with notes of briny citrus, while an oaky-tasting finish is steady due to the aforementioned acidity. drink now.

Navia

90

32

74,488

portugal

aged for 18 months in oak, this richly structured wine is powerful and concentrated. bitter chocolate vies with ripe, juicy berry fruits to give a wine that is both firm and extracted, but also generous. the wine is ready to drink.

Grande Reserva Tinto

89

30

28,234

us

from 41-year-old vines on just over five estate acres, this is resiny and briny on the nose. a honey-laced creaminess at the core is tensely accentuated by vibrant acidity. balanced and elegant, with a sunny bite of ripeness, it revels in nuances of fresh and dried apricot while lighter notes of lemon, lime and grapefruit play backup.

Estate Bottled

93

27

88,568

us

once known as nugent vineyard, winside is a blend of dijon and pommard clones that's on the more robust side, especially in this climatically perfect vintage. offering exuberant red cherry fruit and layers of cola and milk chocolate, it's ready to enjoy with pork tenderloin and similarly hearty fare.

Winside Vineyard

90

44

26,479

chile

opens like a full-bore barrel buster with heavy char and leather. with time it settles on coffee, toast, chocolate and fig aromas. the palate is big and chewy, with peppery, toasty blackberry fruit and then more toast and coffee on the finish. seems as much about the barrel as the fruit.

Reserva

88

14

112,043

us

herb, anise, baking-spice, smoke and dark-fruit aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors surrounded by velvety tannins. the balance is just about spot on.

Fidelitas Estate Vineyard

89

75

127,045

portugal

a blend of aragonez, syrah and touriga nacional, this is a crisp wine, full of raspberry fruits and a soft texture. it is attractive with its balance of acidity and fruit, and is very ready to drink.

Ciconia

85

12

98,026

france

this wine is soft and rounded with attractive red-cherry fruits, ripe strawberries and touches of wood and tannin. acidity comes along behind this richness. it is going to develop quickly and will give great pleasure. drink from 2018.

Les Charmes Premier Cru

91

153

15,042

us

no one will ever complain that this napa valley-sonoma county blend isn't fruity enough. it's deliciously explosive in jammy blackberries, cassis, cherries and milk chocolate. oak adds notes of caramel. but flavor isn't everything, and this wine would benefit from greater restraint and structural integrity.

Encomium

88

70

43,730

france

this medium-bodied wine combines grilled cherries with meaty, savory notes. it's not the biggest, baddest or boldest, but it is nicely harmonious and fruit-forward, with a long, mouthwatering finish. drink it over the next year or two.

Les Grès

88

15

13,400

australia

bursting with bold, fully ripe fruit notes of pear and peach, followed up with tropical notes, this is a lush fruit bomb of a chardonnay to drink over the near term (3–4 months).

Flying Piano Hand Select

86

11

1,640

portugal

tinta miúda, known as the rare graciano grape in spain, is not often found in portugal. here it makes a ripe, juicy and jammy wine that's soft, with only a minimum of tannins to keep it together. it has a typically warm character and is ready to drink.

Tinta Miúda

85

12

75,817

portugal

produced in the vineyards of estremoz, the marble capital of portugal, this wine is a ready-to-drink blend of red fruits and soft tannins. a juicy character gives it a crisp aftertaste. drink the wine now.

Album Lua Cheia em Vinhas Velhas

87

9

123,176

spain

berry aromas with a hint of pine and juniper form the opening on this fresh-style rioja. a quick wash of red plum and raspberry flavors comes with an herbal leaning and minty notes. this finishes firm but light in weight, with a minty aftertaste.

Tinto

85

10

24,262

spain

black-fruit aromas are forceful, toasty and gritty. it feels solid, fruity and full bodied, with black fruit flavors that come across ripe and generous. it's oaky but not overly so.

LZ

87

18

35,939

us

this vineyard is a premier site for this variety, taming the mean, green aromas and flavors it can be associated with. aromas of peppery spices, green herbs and cherry are followed by soft, sultry dark fruit flavors that show exquisite balance and length.

Seven Hills Vineyard

91

36

10,599

us

rich black-cherry pie, vanilla and spice notes mark this intensely aromatic bordeaux-style blend made of 60% cabernet franc augmented with equal proportions of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. the palate is bright with tart sour-cherry flavor wrapped in layers of velvety smooth tannins. finishes moderately long.

Rob Roy

87

45

57,584

france

wood and fruit balance in this rich and full wine. the yellow and citrus fruits give a good mix of ripeness and a fresher, more mineral character. the toast, just the right amount, gives the warmth and polish the wine needs. the result is a serious wine, still young, to be drunk from 2018.

Vaudésir Grand Cru

93

73,229

us

this is the inaugural release from this oregon-based winery, with the fruit coming from loess and seven hills vineyards. a blend of cabernet sauvignon (54%), merlot (38%) and petit verdot, it offers laromas of pencil box, high-toned flowers, bittersweet chocolate, herbs and barrel spices. the flavors show depth and intensity as well as exquisite balance and length.

Proprietary

92

75

57,967

italy

made entirely with sangiovese, this fresh wine opens with aromas of black cherry and freshly ground pepper that carry over to the palate along with notes of black raspberry and a hint of orange rind. racy acidity and supple tannins provide the framework. it's easy-drinking, so enjoy soon.

Locorosso

87

15

61,699

chile

even among value-priced cabs from chile, this one isn't offering much. the nose is sharp and brambly, with a hint of stem that takes a while to loosen its grip. the palate is made up of bitter-tinged raspberry flavors and short, choppy tannins. seems more short on substance than in the past.

Estate

83

14

38,949

us

concentrated and lively, this showcases luscious black cherry fruit that's perfectly framed with zippy acidity and ripe tannins. it's a full-bodied, new world style, but with a complex, layered finish that says oregon rather than california.

Estates Reserve

94

75

75,852

us

the chateau's reserve is not their best chardonnay (that honor belongs to the cold creek) but it's their most accessible, made in a powerful, lush style with softer fruit and more obvious new oak. fleshy, full-bodied and showing lively spice, it's a drink-me-now pleasure.

Reserve

90

31

78,255

us

for all the richness, and there's plenty of it in the pineapple, meyer lemondrop and vanilla notes, this chard has a gunmetal minerality that grounds it. the “nu” designation indicates that it's unoaked.

Estate Grown Nu

87

18

124,940

france

the nose suggests ripe, bruised apples and a touch of apple crumble, while the palate also has a mellow aspect, helped along by a little residual sugar to make this wine off dry. sufficient freshness balances things out but the overall impression is one of rounded mellowness. lemon becomes apparent on the finish.

Coup de Foudre

89

19

45,955

bulgaria

a heady aroma of cherry, coffee and clove with a whiff of mint paves the way for luscious flavors of raspberry, pomegranate and eucalyptus. this wine is silky in the mouth, with a fleeting impression of pomegranate and mint at the soft finish.

Enira

90

15

128,636

us

vanilla cream, marzipan and apple custard hit the nose on this creamy, dairy-inflected bottling, but a fine line of key-lime rind balances things. pan-seared apples in lemon juice mesh well with saffron and dandelion as well as buttered toast with lime marmalade on the dynamic palate.

Sierra Madre Vineyard

91

30

41,497

austria

smells nice enough, with rich custardy aromas, freshly baked sweetened piecrust, and peaches and vanilla. it tastes much drier than you'd think, given the opening. delicate peach and hazelnut flavors are offset by decent, not great, acidity. in fact, if the acids were higher, the wine would be better. —s.h.

Gelber

86

23

7,621

new zealand

unmistakably a kiwi pinot noir, with notes of dr. pepper, ripe bramble fruit, oaky spices and tree bark, it loses it's way a little on the palate, lacking the juicy fruit to stand up to all the oak.

Three Paddles

87

20

51,536

us

a bone-dry, slightly green sauvignon blanc, with lemongrass and gooseberry flavors, boosted with vibrant acidity. feels elegant and sleek, but won't appeal to everyone. the grapes for this unoaked wine came from sonoma and lake counties.

Tradition

86

30

102,773

france

with a sense of structure and balance between honey and fruit, this is an attractive, food-friendly wine. it is off dry although the spice core gives a drier edge. allow the wine a few more months in bottle; drink from late 2015.

Tradition

86

25

26,307

spain

scratchy, minty aromas are the opening on this rough and rugged blend of tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon. in the mouth, this is hard as nails, with extreme tannic bite. flavors of blackberry and chocolate are ripe and satisfying, while resiny oak, baking spice notes and rough tannnins define the finish.

Cala N. 2

87

22

62,734

france

soft-fruited champagne, with pear and pink grapefruit flavors. it has a bitter almond edge that cuts through the acidity. the finish is soft, towards the sweet end of brut.

Blue Top Brut

85

35

58,198

us

this wine intrigues with its aromas of peppery spices, tobacco and purple fruit. the flavors are lush and focused, bringing a lot of hedonistic pleasure, though it trails a bit toward the finish.

Anderson Estate Vineyard

88

20

126,876

portugal

the wine is crisp and as light as a feather. the fruitiness brings with it apple and pink grapefruit as well as warmer golden plums and a perfumed aftertaste. drink the wine now.

Coreto Branco

84

9

53,985

us

tastes hot as a chile pepper, and no wonder. the alcohol is 15.8%. some red wines get away with it, but this one doesn't. the berry-cherry flavors are baked, and the wine is clumsy and inelegant.

Holystone

82

27

73,566

italy

vernaccia rondolino opens with fragrant aromas of citrus, green apple and passion fruit. the mouthfeel is lean and compact, but there's a nice touch of zesty freshness on the close.

Rondolino

85

12

87,345

us

this wine is a blend of tempranillo (63%), graciano (26%) and garnacha. appealing aromas of red fruit, spice, cocoa and toasty barrel accents give way to fruit and barrel flavors brightened by tart acidity and supported by lightly grainy tannins. it's an intriguing blend of these varieties that shows impeccable balance and impressive length.

Corrida

91

34

45,320

us

fermented in neutral oak barrels and aged sur lie for 7 months, this wine, which includes 6% viognier, brings herb, honeycomb, pear and orange peel aromas. it drinks dry, with sleek, citrusy flavors.

Stillwater Creek Vineyard

88

23

86,012

us

pretty in orange and pink, this sparkling rosé is 75% pinot noir and 25% chardonnay, creamy in texture with a pleasing taste of strawberries and cream atop a homemade biscuit. with solid acidity, it'll be both an attractive and effective addition to your springtime brunch or lunch table.

Sparkling Rosé

88

22

29,925

argentina

melon and citrus aromas are clean and easy, not pungent. this feels good, with limited but solid white-grapefruit and orange flavors. a dry juicy finish tastes mildly bitter but isn't too severe.

Reserva

86

10

47,568

spain

this big, jammy syrah is packed with spice, baked plum and blackberry aromas. in the mouth, it's wide and voluminous. flavors of blackberry are fully ripe, while blueberry and pepper flavors are long and lasting on the finish.

Venta la Ossa

88

22

73,284

us

the hot climate in which the grapes were grown shows in this wine's extreme softness and jammy ripeness. it's almost sweet, like a cherry and raspberry pastry.

Reserve

84

18

38,638

us

this is a blend of cabernet, pinot, sangiovese, zin and three other varieties, and it will please fruit-forward fans for its wealth of cherries, raspberries, cola and peppermint candy flavors.

Rosato

84

17

37,651

us

treana has enjoyed great success with this blend of viognier and marsanne, which is one of the best rhône-style white wines in california. the main reason is the source of the grapes. the vineyard, owned by the wagners of caymus, is stellar. the '06 is as rich and crisply acidic as ever, with fantastically complex, honeyed tropical fruit, apricot and floral flavors that taste like they have a touch of botrytis.

Mer Soleil Vineyard

94

25

127,507

chile

despite not being overly dense or powerful, the nose features ample berry aromas and a hint of herbal essence. the mouth delivers plum, cherry and berry fruit and then it goes spicy and oaky on the drying finish. though not big and fat, there's substance and plenty of taste here.

Grand Reserve Vitisterra

85

13

37,713

spain

this is floral on the nose, but also candied smelling. so don't be surprised that the palate, while friendly and fruity, is also sticky in feel with a syrupy core flavor that's suggestive of residual sugar. that said, this jellybean is an easy drinker.

Berry Smooth

85

13

72,337

italy

aged for one year in barriques, this is dominated by raw oak and butterscotch aromas that carry over to the palate alongside lemon and pineapple flavors. while it's an understandable effort to differentiate it from other wines made from pecorino, it doesn't possess enough fruit richness to support the wood sensations.

Io sono Gaia non sono Lucrezia

86

29

79,461

us

a one-of-a-kind 100% sangiovese from cadaretta, this pure and expressive wine shows concentrated strawberry fruit presented in a balanced style with acids and tannins in perfect proportion. there is no hint of new oak, just a softening from barrel aging, and a lovely presentation of the pretty young fruit.

Highclimber

88

50

43,962

us

a really nice sparkling wine from gloria ferrer. mostly pinot noir, with some chardonnay, it has a dark copper color and is full-bodied and rich in raspberry and strawberry flavors. feels crisp and satisfying. best over the next few years.

Brut Rosé

91

42

58,316

france

still in its first flush of youth, it shows great minerality as well as intense citrus and apple fruit flavors. a light touch of ripeness brings out a more yellow fruit character. drink now, but better to keep until 2015.

Sancerre le Rochoy

91

30

129,102

chile

roasted, balsamic aromas suggest tomato, coffee grinds and a pinch of herbal green in addition to standard berry and cassis notes. pulsing acidity creates a lively, dancing mouthfeel. flavors of herbal plum and light cherry finish scratchy and edgy, with a mild chocolate flavor.

Propuesta

87

10

114,277

italy

this wine definitely shows a ripe side in its cured meat, tobacco, sandalwood, smoked bacon and old spice. delivers a rich, plump feel in the mouth, backed by gritty tannins and bright acidity. despite the cooler vintage, this wine packs power, heat and a tiny touch of sweetness on the close.

Riserva

91

79

12,416

australia

a full, not overly extracted style of shiraz with deep aromas of licorice, earth, tar, prunes and a lovely creamy note. plum and blackberry flavors with soy and smoke accents fill the palate, and as the wine closes it displays good length with fruit and spice flavors.

Reserve

88

46

40,661

australia

the de bortoli family does a solid job with chardonnay—even this entry-level wine shows some complexity and finesse. hints of smoke and graphite frame bright pineapple and lime flavors, delivered without excessive weight or richness.

DB Family Selection

85

9

33,033

italy

here's a strongly mineral-driven expression of chardonnay with a polished, linear appeal in its clean aromas and crisp mouthfeel. the wine is luminous and light and would pair with seafood or a fresh caesar salad.

Libaio

87

12

957

us

the great ritchie vineyard, a renowned site for chardonnay, also possesses highly sought-after sauvignon blanc. here, it shows as grassy in pea shoots and thick, with a voluptuous texture and body weight.

Ritchie Vineyard

87

24

123,282

us

this wine shows smooth red fruit that is light and generic, with modest weight and an earthy flavor. the wine spent a bit of time in 25% new oak, though it doesn't show up in the flavors.

The Attaché

87

40

92,190

italy

this wine opens with stewed plum, used leather, vanilla and coconut aromas. the palate is evolved, offering prune, espresso and sage flavors, with close-grained tannins that leave an astringent finish.

Riserva dei Mandorli

87

55

3,851

us

spicy and assertive, this young, cellar-worthy pinot noir just hints at the complexity within. give it plenty of air time and it opens aromatically with allspice, sandalwood, perhaps some cola and pine needle. the tart and tangy berry fruit is still compact and primary, but fully ripe and nicely sculpted into a well-defined wine from start to finish.

Arcus Estate

92

100

6,226

portugal

adding syrah (shiraz as the producer calls it) to the blend with tinta roriz and touriga nacional gives a strongly perfumed character to this firm, still structured wine. it also has a fresh element from the black currant acidity that cuts through the wine. drink now.

Brigando

85

10

106,876

us

as usual, this was sourced entirely from a small block in the dineen vineyard. fragrant with a mélange of lemony aromas, the flavors carry the same theme—lemon gelato, lemon pie, limoncello, all buoyed with perfect acidity. it's a vivid, clean, long-lasting wine.

StevensDivio

92

21

16,727

us

this opens with juicy cranberry and cherry fruit, remaining concentrated through the core palate. good as it is, the wine fades more quickly than its reserve siblings, which would suggest drinking this one first while the others gain further time in bottle.

Tallulah's Run Reserve

90

65

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.

Coroa d'Ouro

88

12

113,816

austria

from one of the high vineyards on the slopes of the schrattenthal, this complex riesling has a fine initial raciness, then opens into perfumed white fruits touched by spice, apricots and a layer of tense minerality. age for 2–3 years. screwcap.

Innere Bergen

90

23

69,505

us

with an extra-deep color and smoky-sweet oak aromas, this wine doesn't taste like its peer group, but seems to be going for commercial appeal as a spiced-up generic red. it's full bodied, almost thick in texture and firmly tannic.

Misbehaved

84

16

9,777

germany

rich, viscous and sweet, this is a spätlese that punches above its weight. a bit of dried apricot hints at the inclusion of some botrytized grapes, while the rest of the fruit shows superripe flavors of peaches and honey. this is long on the finish, clinging to the palate. imported by chapin cellars, llc.

Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Spätlese

92

28

23,969

italy

here's an outstanding chianti classico made from 80% sangiovese, 10% pugnitello and 10% colorino that opens with earthy aromas of underbrush, leather, violet, dark spices and red berries. the structured palate delivers rich black cherry, black pepper, clove and balsamic herbs alongside bracing yet refined tannins. it still shows some youthful aggression, so give it time to soften and develop complexity. drink 2015–2025.

Poggio Rosso Riserva

94

50