spawn99/wine-reviews · Datasets at Hugging Face

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US	Over the years Mondavi's Reserve has taken a turn toward Chablis. Fans of lush, superripe Chards will find it tart, but it's really balanced and elegant. With a dry tang of minerals, it shows bright Meyer lemon, lime, pineapple and white peach flavors. One-third new oak adds creamy, smoky vanilla complexities. Should develop over the next six years.	Reserve	93	40	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Chardonnay	Robert Mondavi	null	null	Robert Mondavi 2006 Reserve Chardonnay (Napa Valley)
US	This is a crisp, clean wine, with ultraripe flavors of apricots, grapefruits, lemongrass and flowers. It is overtly sweet, though, which limits its appeal.	null	83	14	California	Alexander Valley	Sonoma	Sauvignon Blanc	DeLorimier	null	null	null
Austria	The wine is called “wide world,” a reference to the fact that this wine looks outside Austria to a Bordeaux blend, barrel aged for 15 months. It is a structured wine, hinting at blackberry fruits, with some austerity and a mineral character, finishing with dry tannins, juicy acidity and toast. Good aging potential. Screwcap.	Weite Welt	90	38	Burgenland	null	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Gunter Triebaumer	null	null	null
Italy	This Prosecco boasts a very attractive combination of fresh, lively and concentrated floral notes opposite complex toasted notes. Medium bodied, which is big for Prosecco, with good acidity and a spicy finish. Imported by Masciarelli Wine Co.	Dry	87	16	Veneto	Prosecco di Valdobbiadene	null	Prosecco	Bellussi	null	null	null
Italy	Made from 80-year old Nerello Mascalese vines, this powerfully structured wine features aromas of ripe berry, allspice, anise and Mediterranean herb. The concentrated, warm palate offers ripe black cherry, raspberry, licorice, mineral and white pepper alongside the warmth of alcohol and firm, velvety tannins.	Contrada S	93	67	Sicily & Sardinia	Terre Siciliane	null	Nerello Mascalese	Passopisciaro	null	null	null
Italy	This opens with aromas suggesting toast, coconut and roasted coffee bean. The palate is rather raw, offering sour cherry and espresso alongside raspy tannins that leave a mouth-drying finish.	del Comune di Serralunga	87	75	Piedmont	Barolo	null	Nebbiolo	Tenuta Rocca	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Tenuta Rocca 2012 del Comune di Serralunga (Barolo)
Italy	Here's a light and elegant Soave highlighted by pretty mineral notes and tighter aromas of peach and citrus. Fresh crispness keeps the palate clean and ready for the next delicious sip.	Campo le Calle	87	16	Veneto	Soave	null	Garganega	Latium di Morini	null	null	Latium di Morini 2010 Campo le Calle (Soave)
US	A soft, elegant Pinot Noir, this bears flavors of cherry cola and persimmon, with accents of sweet, buttery, toasted oak and cinnamon. Drink now.	null	87	35	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Pinot Noir	Rock Wall	null	null	null
US	A decent everyday Cab that's upfront in blackberry and cherry jam flavors, with smoky, spicy wood notes. It finishes dry and tannic and a little rustic.	null	84	34	California	Sonoma Valley	Sonoma	Cabernet Sauvignon	Peter Cellars	null	null	null
France	An elegant wine, this has dark tannins and a sumptuous texture, which is smoothed by generous fruit and acidity. On the finish, a spice note and a dry structure promise that this will age well.	Domaine du Château Gris Premier Cru	93	null	Burgundy	Nuits-St.-Georges	null	Pinot Noir	Albert Bichot	null	null	null
France	90-92 Barrel sample. There is wood here, the fruit is fresh, with a lively acidity on top of the core of tannin. A bright, fresh, blackcurrant wine.	Barrel sample	91	null	Bordeaux	Saint-Émilion	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château La Serre	null	null	null
US	This wine opens with just a touch of reduction followed by quite pure aromas of red and blue fruit. The flavors are sweet and fresh, with the tannins bringing a light grip.	The Velvet Devil	88	12	Washington	Washington	Washington Other	Merlot	Charles Smith	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Charles Smith 2014 The Velvet Devil Merlot (Washington)
Argentina	The nose on this Malbec is loaded with oak and pencil eraser aromas; there's also a raisiny quality to the bouquet. This feels a touch stewy, although strong acidity functions as an offset. Blackberry, licorice and clove flavors come in front of a raw, tight, narrow finish with stomping tannins.	J. Alberto Single Vineyard	88	54	Other	Río Negro Valley	null	Malbec	Bodega Noemía de Patagonia	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Bodega Noemía de Patagonia 2011 J. Alberto Single Vineyard Malbec (Río Negro Valley)
US	This features notes of cranberry, raspberry, clove and jammy red fruit. It's medium-plus bodied—far from over the top as this grape often is—with tart acidity and a vanilla and toffee-filled finish.	Vineyard Series	89	28	Washington	Wahluke Slope	Columbia Valley	Primitivo	Milbrandt	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Milbrandt 2011 Vineyard Series Primitivo (Wahluke Slope)
France	Warm, rounded and open style of wine with attractive fruits, hints of raisins and a smoky character. Not for aging.	null	87	19	Beaujolais	Côte de Brouilly	null	Gamay	Henry Fessy	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Henry Fessy 2009 Côte de Brouilly
Portugal	From 20-year-old vines grown on old stone terraces, this wine is structured and concentrated, yet balanced, with fine red fruits that are layered by tannins and acidity. The wine has a dense texture that gives it depth and ageability. With its structure and rich still-developing fruits, it will be best after 2018.	null	93	20	Douro	null	null	Portuguese Red	Quinta de la Rosa	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Quinta de la Rosa 2013 Red (Douro)
US	This 100% Syrah is a little too soft and melted, and lacks a solid structure. But the flavors are really delicious in raspberry- and cherry-pie filling, mocha and sandalwood.	Red Red Wine	87	30	California	Edna Valley	Central Coast	Red Blend	Topanga	null	null	null
Italy	Scarnocchio is a savory, spicy Amarone with aromas of black pepper, cured meat, black fruit and soft leather. Wood-driven flavors of vanilla, cigar box and cinnamon appear on the wine's slight sweet finish.	Scarnocchio	91	60	Veneto	Amarone della Valpolicella Classico	null	Red Blend	Monte del Frá	null	null	null
US	Tasting a bit raisiny from this warm, dry year, with gobs of sweet cherries and cocoa. Lush, rich, full, still fairly tannic at the age of 9-1/2 years, the wine should continue to develop for an additional five to ten years.	Rubicon	87	90	California	Rutherford	Napa	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Niebaum-Coppola	null	null	null
US	Luscious watermelon and berry aromas perfume this buoyantly fruity dry rosé. It's robust in body and amped with concentrated red-cherry flavor but maintains deft balance. Lingering raspberry notes finish brisk and bright.	Dry	90	18	New York	Finger Lakes	Finger Lakes	Rosé	Damiani	Anna Lee C. Iijima	null	Damiani 2015 Dry Rosé (Finger Lakes)
France	Crisp and minerally, this has an apple and grapefruit feel. It is fresh and very fruity; the upfront acidity lends an intensely refreshing character. This is ready to drink.	Croix au Moines	88	null	Burgundy	Chablis	null	Chardonnay	Domaine Pommier	null	null	null
US	There is a ton of black pepper flavor in this stylish blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah. It also bears notes of licorice, sweet red currants, grilled prosciutto and sandalwood. This tastes so rich that it almost seems sweet, but it's actually dry and balanced.	Phenomenon	92	50	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Red Blend	Benessere	null	null	null
Argentina	Cherry, tea, spice and citrus peel aromas lead to a balanced palate. This tastes of citrus, raspberry, spiced plum and lightly buttered oak. A creamy sense carries over to the finish, but mostly this is lively and solid.	Art of the Andes	86	12	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Pinot Noir	Don Rodolfo	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Don Rodolfo 2015 Art of the Andes Pinot Noir (Mendoza)
US	Tastes grapey, with green table grape, pineapple, vanilla and spice flavors, and the finish is totally dry and crisp. It's a good, rich, savory wine, rather like a Pinot Gris, at a good price.	Old Vines	87	18	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Colombard	Y Rousseau	null	null	null
Italy	Red berry, white pepper, crushed herb and a balsamic note lead the nose on this elegant red. The tense, mid-weight palate offers raspberry, tart cherry, anise and clove framed in taut, polished tannins and bright acidity.	null	90	24	Piedmont	Ghemme	null	Red Blend	Ioppa	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Ioppa 2011 Ghemme
US	Thin and earthy, with notes of blackberries, olives and tobacco and thick, harsh acids and tannins that show up on the gritty finish. Pretty good for everyday fare at a decent price.	Private Selection	84	11	California	Central Coast	Central Coast	Merlot	Robert Mondavi	null	null	null
US	Compiled from a half dozen vineyards scattered throughout the northern Willamette Valley. Firm, sculpted and dense, this has more grip and depth than might be expected at this price point. Each vineyard's grapes were separately fermented; the blending has pulled them all together with dark, plummy flavors, notes of raisin, baking spices and caramel, and a smooth, penetrating finish.	Grande Cuvée	89	25	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Soléna	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Soléna 2008 Grande Cuvée Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)
US	This appears to be a wine that's simply over-reached. Noticeably high-toned, with a vinegary bite to the cherry flavored fruit, it's pushed it a bit too far. Not even 28 months in three quarters new French oak can mask the volatility.	Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4	84	50	Washington	Yakima Valley	Columbia Valley	Red Blend	Two Mountain	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Two Mountain 2009 Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4 Red (Yakima Valley)
Chile	This is a jammy, lusty wine with aromatic notes of graphite on top of core blackberry scents. The palate is chunky and full, while the flavor profile is pure jammy blackberry. A quick, staunch finish is a fine conclusion.	Gran Reserva	90	17	Colchagua Valley	null	null	Malbec	Alto Los Romeros	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Alto Los Romeros 2011 Gran Reserva Malbec (Colchagua Valley)
Italy	Aromas of black cherry, licorice, leather, violet and a whiff of tobacco open this wine. The palate is still a bit closed but delivers black raspberry, wild cherry, anisette and a note of black pepper alongside big, brooding tannins that need time to come around. Drink 2017–2024.	null	90	51	Piedmont	Barolo	null	Nebbiolo	Marchesi di Barolo	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Marchesi di Barolo 2009 Barolo
Germany	The nose of this pretty kabinett starts off demure, wafting fresh grapefruit, sage and lavender scents. The palate, by contrast, boasts tropical mango and berry tones. Boldly concentrated and brisk in acidity, it's a punchy, four-square Riesling with appeal well into the 2020s.	Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett	91	27	Mosel	null	null	Riesling	Dr. Pauly Bergweiler	Anna Lee C. Iijima	null	Dr. Pauly Bergweiler 2015 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett Riesling (Mosel)
US	A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 4% Malbec, this top-end offering from Macari boasts bold aromas of weedy cassis tempered with toast and chocolate. Will be considered overly green by some, pleasantly herbal by others, but no one will deny its lush mouthfeel and appealingly peppery finish.	Bergen Road	87	32	New York	North Fork of Long Island	Long Island	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Macari	null	null	null
France	Vendôme's situation, north of the River Loire, naturally lends itself to this bright style of rosé. It has a fine structure, forward red fruits and a light vanilla touch, well balanced and ready for food.	Lieu dit Cocagne	87	null	Loire Valley	Coteaux du Vendômois	null	Pineau d'Aunis	Les Vignerons du Vendômois	null	null	null
US	100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Wallula Vineyard, this brooding wine screams of the Horse Heaven Hills with notes of dusty earth, black currant, and bittersweet chocolate. It's tightly coiled and largely about structure with its firm tannins supporting concentrated cherry flavors. Needs time to come into its own but has the stuffing to lay down for a decade or more.	Andreas Cabernet Sauvignon Wallula Vineyard	92	80	Washington	Horse Heaven Hills	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Sauvignon	Den Hoed	null	null	null
Chile	The nose on this blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère is herbal and a touch mulchy, with berry, coffee and olive aromas. The palate feels thick and on the cusp of syrupy, with baked, creamy black-fruit flavors that bring carob, chocolate and herbs accents to a modest finish. This is ripe in feel but still smells and tastes a bit herbal.	Private Edition	88	22	Cachapoal Valley	null	null	Red Blend	Valle Secreto	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Valle Secreto 2010 Private Edition Red (Cachapoal Valley)
US	Succulent and crisp; those two words are what you want in a California Pinot Gris, and you get them here. The pear, pineapple, peach and fig flavors are balanced with refreshing acidity, while a touch of oak and sur lie aging adds accents of smoke and creamy vanilla.	null	90	20	California	Sonoma Coast	Sonoma	Pinot Gris	MacMurray Ranch	null	null	MacMurray Ranch 2006 Pinot Gris (Sonoma Coast)
US	Gothic is the project of a New York-based restaurateur and sommelier team. This spent 10 months in 15% new French oak. Scents and flavors of rubber tire dominate, and the tannins are hard and harsh. Airing it out helps a bit, but the bitterness does not entirely disappear.	Nevermore	85	24	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Gothic	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Gothic 2013 Nevermore Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)
US	Very rich and ripe in fruit, and also rich in new oak. The combination makes for mouth-filling blackberry and cherry pie filling, currant, licorice, dark chocolate and spicy flavors that are frankly delicious. The finish is quick, suggesting this lovely wine is best enjoyed in its youth.	Artistry	90	40	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Girard	null	null	null
Italy	This intriguing Amarone already shows complexity and depth. It has aromas of raisin, black fruit, graphite and spice, with a hint of leather. The palate delivers ripe but restrained plum and black cherry flavor, with soft white pepper and nutmeg notes, all supported by fresh acidity. Drink after 2015.	Casa dei Bepi	92	null	Veneto	Amarone della Valpolicella Classico	null	Red Blend	Viviani	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Viviani 2008 Casa dei Bepi (Amarone della Valpolicella Classico)
Canada	An earthy, spicy nose gives this Riesling a masculine edge. On the palate, subtle flavors of pepper, spice and flowers dominate. A touch bitter but overall, an elegant sip. Imported by Henry Of Pelham Winery.	Reserve	84	15	Ontario	Niagara Peninsula	null	Riesling	Henry of Pelham	null	null	null
US	Soft and spicy, this Zin shows concentrated flavors of wild berries, tobacco, olive tapenade and sandalwood, liberally spiced and smoky on the finish. It's a little overripe. Enjoy with lusty fare, such as beef stews.	Reserve	87	50	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Zinfandel	Frank Family	null	null	null
Canada	Fresh and lively, this works the green side of the fruit spectrum, from gooseberry to grapefruit, with a dollop of wet stone. It's a good, all-purpose Sauvignon Blanc, not especially tart, with a welcome bit of barrel-induced roundness.	null	88	20	British Columbia	British Columbia	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Calliope	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Calliope 2013 Sauvignon Blanc (British Columbia)
France	This wood-aged cuvée from Château Belingard has great weight and concentration while also showing dense spice and blackberry flavors. At this stage, it is showing the wood; but in another year, it will round out and its dark juicy fruit will come forward.	Ortus	90	25	Southwest France	Côtes de Bergerac	null	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Château Bélingard	null	null	null
US	Richer and more complete than the '98 La Joie, with which it was simultaneously released. This wine shows its mountain origins in its tough young tannins and hard edges, but there is enough cherry and blackberry fruit for the long haul. Oak adds vanilla and toast, but this is a wine you need to cellar until 2009.	La Joie	90	100	California	Sonoma County	Sonoma	Red Blend	Verité	null	null	null
US	Made in a Super-Tuscan style with 49% of the blend Sangiovese (the rest 33% Cab Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 1% Zin and 1% Syrah) this wine is big, meaty and savory with sweet tannins and vanilla laced throughout while still balanced enough to be a good choice with red meat and red sauce.	Fiorente Red Wine	87	30	California	San Francisco Bay-Livermore Valley	Central Coast	Red Blend	Tamás Estates	null	null	null
Spain	Oaky aromas of milk chocolate and animal sit atop plum and cherry scents. This is a direct wine without a lot of nuance or layering: flavors of red plum and cherry are crisp and benefit from chocolaty oak, while the finish is solid in feel and tastes of oak and briny plum.	Loidana	88	30	Catalonia	Priorat	null	Red Blend	Marco Abella	null	null	null
US	Light, but elegant and pretty, this wine spent 17 months in 40% new oak. Fruit flavors emphasize tart berry, with a dash of earthy sandalwood.	Vintner's Reserve	88	30	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Redhawk	null	null	null
Spain	This has raisin, earth, mint and dried herb aromas. It feels narrow, but concentrated, tasting of earthy tomato, baked plum and fresh green herb. It has a solid mouthfeel, with a mildly briney finish.	Crianza	84	9	Central Spain	La Mancha	null	Tempranillo	Finca Vieja	null	null	null
US	Nice and dry, with good varietal flavors of blackberries and currants, wrapped into rich tannins. It's a fine Cabernet to drink with ordinary food, and a good value.	Running with the Bulls	86	10	California	North Coast	North Coast	Cabernet Sauvignon	Salvatore Principe	null	null	null
Italy	You'll love the delicate floral fragrances of this feminine, cool-climate northern Italian white. Acacia, jasmine and honeysuckle play a leading role with a supporting cast of stone fruit and pear. In the mouth, it's not particularly intense or thick.	Toretta Classico	86	14	Northeastern Italy	Alto Adige	null	White Blend	Girlan	null	null	null
Spain	Floral and not overpowering in style, with good red-fruit aromas. Feels smooth and silky, not edgy, with tasty berry flavors touched up by a dollop of oak and chocolate. A fresh, easy wine to sip by the glass or with casual tapas.	null	88	17	Northern Spain	Bierzo	null	Mencía	Luna Beberide	null	null	null
US	Scents of lemongrass, white flower, bees wax and pear are perky and well etched. Between the wine's keen acids and lemony flavor, this remains a bright, uplifting effort, with a clean, tangy finish.	Johannisberg	87	15	Virginia	Shenandoah Valley	null	Riesling	Shenandoah Vineyards	null	null	Shenandoah Vineyards 2011 Johannisberg Riesling (Shenandoah Valley)
US	This full-bodied wine has a voluptuous entry that's slightly tropical in pineapple and Asian pear, as well as vanilla-layered oak. The expansive beginning segues smoothly into a higher-wire act of minerality, finishing fleshy and fresh.	null	90	40	California	Los Carneros	Napa-Sonoma	Chardonnay	Vine Cliff	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Vine Cliff 2013 Chardonnay (Los Carneros)
US	In a cool year such as 2008, Pepper Bridge fruit gets a bit lean. This is tart and light, strawberry and cherry, amply supported with dried leaf and herb flavors. A streak of vanilla accents the hard tannins.	Pepper Bridge Vineyard Red	89	55	Washington	Walla Walla Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Pepper Bridge	null	null	null
Italy	From one of the best vintages in the last 15 years, this classic Barolo needs to be opened a couple of hours ahead of time to breathe. It's a bit shy on aromas but the palate delivers dried cherry, fig, tobacco, white pepper and black tea flavors. Youthful acidity accompanies silky tannins in this wine that is just starting to develop complexity. Drink through 2024.	Riserva	91	50	Piedmont	Barolo	null	Nebbiolo	Villadoria	Kerin O’Keefe	@kerinokeefe	Villadoria 2004 Riserva (Barolo)
US	Juicy black cherry and grippy oak are the stars of the show in this delicious red wine, softened by the addition of 16% Malbec. Elongated tannins support the leathery texture as highlights of cedar and sage play on.	Estate Grown	92	75	California	Mount Veeder	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Hess	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Hess 2014 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon (Mount Veeder)
US	Cherry, coffee and spicy cedar starts this masculine Cab from Penns Woods. On the palate, tobacco, red currant and pepper offer savory and sweet elements. The wine is balanced with good acidity and tannins. Pair with smoked ribs, hamburgers.	Reserve	85	46	Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Penns Woods	Susan Kostrzewa	@suskostrzewa	Penns Woods 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Pennsylvania)
US	The wine is bone dry, with lots of mouthwatering acidity. The flavors are reticent but complex, suggesting sour blackberry candy and cherry skins, along with some firm tannins. Try aging it until 2017 to let it soften as much as it ever will.	Babcock Vineyard	88	40	California	Sta. Rita Hills	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	a-non-ah-mus	null	null	null
Portugal	Strong wood aromas continue to the palate of this firm, dry wine. Underneath, there is enough juicy fruit to bring richness as well as structure. It still needs time. Drink from 2016.	Brutalis	91	25	Lisboa	null	null	Portuguese Red	Vidigal	null	null	null
Argentina	This jumpy, lively Malbec is a hulk that starts with funky aromas of wet dog and bacon before settling to reveal bold blackberry and plum notes. It's saturated and solid in the mouth, where black-fruit flavors dominate. On the finish comes spice and mocha. A full-force wine that needs time in the glass to show its best.	Maipo Vineyards	87	11	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Malbec	Pascual Toso	null	null	null
US	This pure Cabernet Franc, aged in 100% second-use French oak, displays nicely ripened fruit flavors of blackberry and black cherry. Highlights of black pepper dapple the finish, which at first seems attenuated, but opens up nicely with extended breathing time.	null	88	50	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Cabernet Franc	Woodinville Wine Cellars	null	null	null
US	Heavy and full-bodied, a dense, soft Pinot Noir that seems too ripe for comfort. The cherry and currant flavors veer into raisins. The vineyard is from the warmest part of Russian River Valley, almost into Dry Creek Valley.	Bacigalupi Vineyards	85	42	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Pinot Noir	John Tyler	null	null	John Tyler 2006 Bacigalupi Vineyards Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)
US	Rich and ripe, this features blackberry and currant flavors whose acidity provides a citrusy, jammy tartness. This is the winery's least expensive bottling, and an enticing introduction to its future releases of '09 vineyard-designated Cabs.	null	87	38	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Sequoia Grove	null	null	null
US	This is one of those kitchen sink blends that is better than it has a right to be. Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Muscat, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris are all in the mix, and the wine is both aromatic and packed with fresh flavors of bubble gum and tropical fruit candy. It's finished dry, yielding a multipurpose, unique white wine that you may try with just about any food you'd put in front of any of the component grapes.	Amycas	90	18	Oregon	Willamette Valley	Willamette Valley	White Blend	Brooks	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Brooks 2015 Amycas White (Willamette Valley)
US	This full-bodied and beautifully flavored wine goes deep in terms of ripe fruit and subtle spices, and has a calm, composed character and ultrasmooth, slightly restrained texture. Delicious black-cherry and currant notes come out in the bouquet, weave through the palate and linger on the finish.	Gowan Creek Vineyard	93	82	California	Anderson Valley	null	Pinot Noir	Goldeneye	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Goldeneye 2013 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley)
US	This is a very nice Riesling for drinking with today's ethnic fare. Although it's softer than you'd expect from this normally tart varietal, it's clean and spicy, with citrus, flower and honey flavors. The sweetness level is off-dry.	null	84	25	California	California	California Other	Riesling	Black Box	null	null	null
Italy	Primitivo is Zinfandel, according to University of California at Davis ampelographers (students of grape DNA), but that doesn't mean they taste the same, as this medium-weight southern Italian version proves. Dark cherry, leather, coffee and cocoa predominate here, with some nice spice, tar and a slight black pepperiness (maybe that's the Zin gene) on the finish.	Winemaker's Collection Primitivo	85	9	Southern Italy	Puglia	null	Primitivo	Canaletto	null	null	null
France	The vintage has given a rich wine, one that is still young. Over the wood notes are ripe yellow fruits, orange marmalade and intense acidity. Age this concentrated wine for 2–3 years.	Cuvée Pauline	91	26	Southwest France	Jurançon Sec	null	Petit Manseng	Château Jolys	null	null	null
US	Made in the Edmeades style of high alcohol and exceptional ripeness, this is a powerfully explosive Zin. Fully dry, it's packed with black currant, cassis, plum jam, dark chocolate and spice flavors that are wrapped into hard tannins. Will soften in time. Best now through 2012.	Perli Vineyard	90	30	California	Mendocino Ridge	null	Zinfandel	Edmeades	null	null	Edmeades 2006 Perli Vineyard Zinfandel (Mendocino Ridge)
Italy	Tormaresca delivers a beautiful expression of Negroamaro. Quality aromas of blackberry and cherry liqueur emerge on the bouquet, and oak-driven tones of almond and chocolate follow through on the finish. It's soft, plush and bold.	Masseria Maìme	91	null	Southern Italy	Salento	null	Negroamaro	Tormaresca	null	null	null
Italy	This dark garnet colored Brunello opens with straightforward and uncomplicated aromas of wild berry, spice and leather. This wine also shows a high level of confidence that is seen in its firm tannins, crisp acidity and rich aftertaste of clove and black fruit.	null	91	65	Tuscany	Brunello di Montalcino	null	Sangiovese Grosso	Brunelli Martoccia	null	null	null
France	An earthy, easy wine that shouts of fresh Sauvignon Blanc, with its crisp acidity, grassy aromas and green fruit flavors. Just bottled, it will stay at peak freshness during the summer months.	Beau Mayne	84	9	Bordeaux	Bordeaux Blanc	null	Sauvignon	Dourthe	null	null	null
Chile	Light and brambly smelling, with leathery red-fruit aromas. Feels juicy and lifted but tastes tart, with medicinal flavors of spunky raspberry and sour red plum. Finishes with medium length and a minty, herbal aftertaste.	null	83	13	Central Valley	null	null	Cabernet Sauvignon	Maniña	null	null	null
Argentina	Steady as a rock, with smoky, charred aromas mixed with beautiful black fruit scents as well as accents of licorice and earth. For anyone enthralled with New World ripeness, this is the ticket. It's a blend of 70% Malbec and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it is lush, packed with blackberry and boysenberry flavors, and viscous on the finish. Complete and special at every level.	Finca Pedregal Single Vineyard	93	82	Mendoza Province	Mendoza	null	Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon	Pascual Toso	null	null	null
Italy	This delivers savory aromas of wet earth, wild mushroom, ripe fruit and cherry cola. The tannic imprinting is very strong and astringent at this stage; give this 5–10 more years.	Cascina Ferrero	88	40	Piedmont	Barolo	null	Nebbiolo	Tenuta Carretta	null	null	null
France	This is a stunning selection, with layers of aromas and flavors that unfold with each passing moment. Concentrated primary notes of blackberry, plum and boysenberry lead, with accents of sweet spice, licorice, soft char, tobacco leaf and menthol following shortly after. The palate is intense and lush, with a full weight and a gripping, thick texture. Hints of oaky spice and cocoa powder linger through the endless finish. Delicious now, but should continue to develop well through 2018.	Le Clos des Fées	93	75	Languedoc-Roussillon	Côtes du Roussillon Villages	null	Rhône-style Red Blend	Domaine du Clos des Fées	Lauren Buzzeo	@laurbuzz	Domaine du Clos des Fées 2008 Le Clos des Fées Red (Côtes du Roussillon Villages)
Italy	Clove, exotic spice, dark chocolate and cured meat come to the forefront of this rich, plush Barbera d'Alba. There's power and bright acidity here and the wine tastes rich, smooth and enduring on the palate. Pair it with cheese-stuffed ravioli.	Rocche delle Rocche	91	null	Piedmont	Barbera d'Alba Superiore	null	Barbera	Rocche Costamagna	null	null	null
US	Aromas of vanilla and baking spice are followed by ample red fruit and spice flavors. The acids are tart, giving the wine a zing.	Stillwater Creek Vineyard	89	34	Washington	Columbia Valley (WA)	Columbia Valley	Merlot	Merry Cellars	Sean P. Sullivan	@wawinereport	Merry Cellars 2013 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Merlot (Columbia Valley (WA))
Portugal	Wood aging gives this ripe wine its toasty character. This texture is balanced by rich peach and apricot fruits, rounded and fruity. Old vines bring an extra concentration to this full, generous wine. Drink from 2016.	Reserva Branco	89	18	Douro	null	null	Portuguese White	Quinta de Porrais	null	null	null
France	Serious Sauvignon Blanc from the Saget home domaine, this full and ripe wine has considerable depth of flavor. Like many wines from Pouilly, it is for aging, a rich, concentrated wine that needs at 3–4 years.	Le Domaine	92	null	Loire Valley	Pouilly-Fumé	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Saget la Perrière	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Saget la Perrière 2011 Le Domaine (Pouilly-Fumé)
US	Subtle aromas and flavors of crisp apple and cherry, a dry composition, fine texture and crisp finish make this rather reserved and well balanced. This reliable standby is the kind of bubbly to have on hand for spur-of-the-moment occasions.	Brut	88	14	California	California	California Other	Sparkling Blend	Korbel	Jim Gordon	@gordone_cellars	Korbel NV Brut Sparkling (California)
US	Everything about this wine is designed to flatter the palate, from the cherry and black raspberry fruit, dusted with dry crushed spices, to the overlay of richly toasted oak, to the soft, yielding tannins. What's not to like? It ain't grand cru Burgundy, but it sure is nice drinking. —S.H.	null	87	20	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Pinot Noir	Koves-Newlan	null	null	Koves-Newlan 1999 Pinot Noir (Napa Valley)
Spain	Pinched and wiry-smelling on the nose, this Garnacha comes around with earthy red-berry aromas in front of a full, chunky, fairly oaky palate. Flavors of blackberry and vanilla are good but common, while the finish is dense but basic.	Old Vine	86	10	Northern Spain	Cariñena	null	Garnacha	Valcantara	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Valcantara 2012 Old Vine Garnacha (Cariñena)
US	Meat, compost and leather notes mark the entry of this Syrah blended with smaller amounts of Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah. Light black pepper and red fruit flavors are sustained by a soft, round texture and lingering finish.	null	90	38	California	Russian River Valley	Sonoma	Syrah	Crux	null	null	null
US	A rich umami character of smoked beef, freshly laid pavement and cola mixes with sour cherries and a light raspberry element on the nose of this wine. Flavors are quite dynamic, with a punchy strawberry-raspberry-sour cherry juice picking up complexity from a eucalyptus bite.	null	90	25	California	Santa Lucia Highlands	Central Coast	Pinot Noir	Sextant	Matt Kettmann	@mattkettmann	Sextant 2013 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands)
Italy	Toasted hazelnut, orchard fruit and citrus scents take center stage. On the elegant palate, a flinty mineral note underscores lemon zest and pear flavors while a nutty hint closes the finish.	null	88	15	Southern Italy	Fiano di Avellino	null	Fiano	Torricino	null	null	null
Spain	If you catch this wine young and properly chilled, it isn't that bad. It's very sweet and sugary, with candied melon, mango and citrus flavors. Then it gets more tropical on the finish, with ending notes of banana and mango. On the verge of tasting fake but not quite.	Satinela Medium-Sweet	84	9	Northern Spain	Rioja	null	White Blend	Marqués de Cáceres	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Marqués de Cáceres 2007 Satinela Medium-Sweet White (Rioja)
Chile	Every year this Sauvignon Blanc manages to deliver fresh citrus aromas and flavors, a full blast of zest, and all the food-matching capabilities one could ask for. On the nose, it's mostly passion fruit, while flavors include green apple and kiwi.	Reserve	88	10	Casablanca Valley	null	null	Sauvignon Blanc	Montes	null	null	null
US	This is young, quite sharp and still showing some rough edges. The fruit is crisp and pure, with well-defined flavors of raspberry and cherry candy. The tannins have a green tea, earthy quality, but some additional bottle age will help round them out.	Estate Cuvée	87	32	Oregon	McMinnville	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Maysara	Paul Gregutt	@paulgwine	Maysara 2007 Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir (McMinnville)
France	This is a traditional style—emphasizing earthy tannins and spicy fruit and is rough around the edges—but is a wine that would relish being partnered with sausages, salamis and hard cheeses. There is plenty of weight, the acidity coming from minerality and wood.	Cuvée des Vignes Centenaires	87	50	Southwest France	Cahors	null	Malbec	Clos de Gamot	Roger Voss	@vossroger	Clos de Gamot 2002 Cuvée des Vignes Centenaires Malbec (Cahors)
US	This is the winery's core Bordeaux blend (“étalon” means “stallion” in French), and it delivers firm, full, even fleshy flavors. All five Bordeaux varieties are included in the blend. A ripe though not quite voluptuous style, it shows the fruit well with a solid presence and nice, firm structure. Polished but still youthful, it takes the new oak in stride and should continue to evolve nicely over the next decade.	L'Etalon	90	30	Washington	Yakima Valley	Columbia Valley	Bordeaux-style Red Blend	Brian Carter Cellars	null	null	null
Australia	This full-bodied, creamy-textured wine is a bit peppery and herbal but also filled with lush cherry fruit, making for a dynamic, engaging contrast. The slightly dusty, peppery edge to the finish will help it stand up to fattier cuts of beef or lamb.	Tipico Grenache-Monastrell-Shiraz	90	23	South Australia	McLaren Vale	null	Rhône-style Red Blend	Cascabel	null	null	null
Austria	Apricot aromas are followed by ripe fruit flavors, giving a rich texture, yet retaining a very clean, fresh character. Opulence with steel.	1000 Eimerberg Smaragd	92	40	Wachau	null	null	Riesling	Gritsch Mauritiushof	null	null	null
US	This Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre blend shows hot alcohol and superripe flavors of blackberries, cassis, dark chocolate and raisins. It's a big, rich, thick wine that sticks to the gums, almost syrupy, but fully dry. Decant it and drink with stews, casseroles, barbecue.	Aurelio's Selection	87	35	California	Paso Robles	Central Coast	Rhône-style Red Blend	Star Angel by Montes	null	null	Star Angel by Montes 2009 Aurelio's Selection Red (Paso Robles)
US	This delicious 100% Cabernet is supple and generous. The tannins are gentle, the acidity soft yet supportive of the structure, and as for the flavors, they go beyond satisfaction into sheer delight. They include blackberry, cherry, blueberry, currant, mocha and red licorice, but the wine has an earthiness and minerality that give it true complexity. This is Stag's Leap's most accessible 2009 Cabernet, easily earning its high score for sheer delight. Drink now–2015.	FAY Estate	94	95	California	Napa Valley	Napa	Cabernet Sauvignon	Stag's Leap Wine Cellars	null	null	Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 2009 FAY Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Spain	Solid as a rock, with earthy berry and mild herbal aromas. The palate is firm and a touch angular, with sweet raisin, blackberry, candy and chocolate flavors. Long and steady on the finish, with a nice mix of freshness and richness that serves it well. Drink now through 2013.	null	89	null	Catalonia	Priorat	null	Red Blend	Mas Dels Frares	null	null	null
Spain	There's no denying that this is a heavily oaked Rioja with toast, resin, vanilla and cheesy aromas alongside fully ripe blackberry and prune notes. There's energy to the palate, while previously mentioned heavy oak spawns flavors of vanilla and spice to go with berry fruit. A mouth-coating, woody finish stands out on this compartmentalized Tempranillo-led blend. Drink through 2023.	Inspiración Valdemar Selección	90	24	Northern Spain	Rioja	null	Tempranillo Blend	Bodegas Valdemar	Michael Schachner	@wineschach	Bodegas Valdemar 2011 Inspiración Valdemar Selección (Rioja)
US	This is classic Oregon Pinot Noir at its most svelte and stylish. Fresh and clean upon entry, it showcases its raspberry and cherry fruit in a delicate wrap of leaf and bark. The tannins are in perfect proportion; the finish is complex and intriguing.	Louise Vineyard	93	50	Oregon	Eola-Amity Hills	Willamette Valley	Pinot Noir	Cristom	null	null	null
Argentina	An intense Malbec-led marauder with rubbery black fruit aromas, spice and mile-deep ripeness. Pure, modern, beefy and purple, with rich black fruit flavors and also some sweeter blueberry notes. Finishes sizable but smooth. Drinkable now but better in a year. 70% Malbec with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cab Franc.	Gran Corte	91	50	Mendoza Province	Tupungato	null	Red Blend	Riglos	null	null	null
US	Structured in tight red-fruit character, this wine—from a two-acre, dry-farmed vineyard—is floral and nicely adorned in acidity, making for an elegant take on the variety. It is also not overdone in oak, letting the vibrant black cherry and just-picked blackberry dominate.	Buchignani Vineyard	91	35	California	Dry Creek Valley	Sonoma	Zinfandel	Keating	Virginie Boone	@vboone	Keating 2012 Buchignani Vineyard Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley)

US

Over the years Mondavi's Reserve has taken a turn toward Chablis. Fans of lush, superripe Chards will find it tart, but it's really balanced and elegant. With a dry tang of minerals, it shows bright Meyer lemon, lime, pineapple and white peach flavors. One-third new oak adds creamy, smoky vanilla complexities. Should develop over the next six years.

Reserve

93

40

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Chardonnay

Robert Mondavi

null

Robert Mondavi 2006 Reserve Chardonnay (Napa Valley)

US

This is a crisp, clean wine, with ultraripe flavors of apricots, grapefruits, lemongrass and flowers. It is overtly sweet, though, which limits its appeal.

null

83

14

California

Alexander Valley

Sonoma

Sauvignon Blanc

DeLorimier

null

Austria

The wine is called “wide world,” a reference to the fact that this wine looks outside Austria to a Bordeaux blend, barrel aged for 15 months. It is a structured wine, hinting at blackberry fruits, with some austerity and a mineral character, finishing with dry tannins, juicy acidity and toast. Good aging potential. Screwcap.

Weite Welt

90

38

Burgenland

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Gunter Triebaumer

null

Italy

This Prosecco boasts a very attractive combination of fresh, lively and concentrated floral notes opposite complex toasted notes. Medium bodied, which is big for Prosecco, with good acidity and a spicy finish. Imported by Masciarelli Wine Co.

Dry

87

16

Veneto

Prosecco di Valdobbiadene

null

Prosecco

Bellussi

null

Italy

Made from 80-year old Nerello Mascalese vines, this powerfully structured wine features aromas of ripe berry, allspice, anise and Mediterranean herb. The concentrated, warm palate offers ripe black cherry, raspberry, licorice, mineral and white pepper alongside the warmth of alcohol and firm, velvety tannins.

Contrada S

93

67

Sicily & Sardinia

Terre Siciliane

null

Nerello Mascalese

Passopisciaro

null

Italy

This opens with aromas suggesting toast, coconut and roasted coffee bean. The palate is rather raw, offering sour cherry and espresso alongside raspy tannins that leave a mouth-drying finish.

del Comune di Serralunga

87

75

Piedmont

Barolo

null

Nebbiolo

Tenuta Rocca

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Tenuta Rocca 2012 del Comune di Serralunga (Barolo)

Italy

Here's a light and elegant Soave highlighted by pretty mineral notes and tighter aromas of peach and citrus. Fresh crispness keeps the palate clean and ready for the next delicious sip.

Campo le Calle

87

16

Veneto

Soave

null

Garganega

Latium di Morini

null

Latium di Morini 2010 Campo le Calle (Soave)

US

A soft, elegant Pinot Noir, this bears flavors of cherry cola and persimmon, with accents of sweet, buttery, toasted oak and cinnamon. Drink now.

null

87

35

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Pinot Noir

Rock Wall

null

US

A decent everyday Cab that's upfront in blackberry and cherry jam flavors, with smoky, spicy wood notes. It finishes dry and tannic and a little rustic.

null

84

34

California

Sonoma Valley

Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon

Peter Cellars

null

France

An elegant wine, this has dark tannins and a sumptuous texture, which is smoothed by generous fruit and acidity. On the finish, a spice note and a dry structure promise that this will age well.

Domaine du Château Gris Premier Cru

93

null

Burgundy

Nuits-St.-Georges

null

Pinot Noir

Albert Bichot

null

France

90-92 Barrel sample. There is wood here, the fruit is fresh, with a lively acidity on top of the core of tannin. A bright, fresh, blackcurrant wine.

Barrel sample

91

null

Bordeaux

Saint-Émilion

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château La Serre

null

US

This wine opens with just a touch of reduction followed by quite pure aromas of red and blue fruit. The flavors are sweet and fresh, with the tannins bringing a light grip.

The Velvet Devil

88

12

Washington

Washington Other

Merlot

Charles Smith

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Charles Smith 2014 The Velvet Devil Merlot (Washington)

Argentina

The nose on this Malbec is loaded with oak and pencil eraser aromas; there's also a raisiny quality to the bouquet. This feels a touch stewy, although strong acidity functions as an offset. Blackberry, licorice and clove flavors come in front of a raw, tight, narrow finish with stomping tannins.

J. Alberto Single Vineyard

88

54

Other

Río Negro Valley

null

Malbec

Bodega Noemía de Patagonia

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Bodega Noemía de Patagonia 2011 J. Alberto Single Vineyard Malbec (Río Negro Valley)

US

This features notes of cranberry, raspberry, clove and jammy red fruit. It's medium-plus bodied—far from over the top as this grape often is—with tart acidity and a vanilla and toffee-filled finish.

Vineyard Series

89

28

Washington

Wahluke Slope

Columbia Valley

Primitivo

Milbrandt

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Milbrandt 2011 Vineyard Series Primitivo (Wahluke Slope)

France

Warm, rounded and open style of wine with attractive fruits, hints of raisins and a smoky character. Not for aging.

null

87

19

Beaujolais

Côte de Brouilly

null

Gamay

Henry Fessy

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Henry Fessy 2009 Côte de Brouilly

Portugal

From 20-year-old vines grown on old stone terraces, this wine is structured and concentrated, yet balanced, with fine red fruits that are layered by tannins and acidity. The wine has a dense texture that gives it depth and ageability. With its structure and rich still-developing fruits, it will be best after 2018.

null

93

20

Douro

null

Portuguese Red

Quinta de la Rosa

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Quinta de la Rosa 2013 Red (Douro)

US

This 100% Syrah is a little too soft and melted, and lacks a solid structure. But the flavors are really delicious in raspberry- and cherry-pie filling, mocha and sandalwood.

Red Red Wine

87

30

California

Edna Valley

Central Coast

Red Blend

Topanga

null

Italy

Scarnocchio is a savory, spicy Amarone with aromas of black pepper, cured meat, black fruit and soft leather. Wood-driven flavors of vanilla, cigar box and cinnamon appear on the wine's slight sweet finish.

Scarnocchio

91

60

Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

null

Red Blend

Monte del Frá

null

US

Tasting a bit raisiny from this warm, dry year, with gobs of sweet cherries and cocoa. Lush, rich, full, still fairly tannic at the age of 9-1/2 years, the wine should continue to develop for an additional five to ten years.

Rubicon

87

90

California

Rutherford

Napa

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Niebaum-Coppola

null

US

Luscious watermelon and berry aromas perfume this buoyantly fruity dry rosé. It's robust in body and amped with concentrated red-cherry flavor but maintains deft balance. Lingering raspberry notes finish brisk and bright.

Dry

90

18

New York

Finger Lakes

Rosé

Damiani

Anna Lee C. Iijima

null

Damiani 2015 Dry Rosé (Finger Lakes)

France

Crisp and minerally, this has an apple and grapefruit feel. It is fresh and very fruity; the upfront acidity lends an intensely refreshing character. This is ready to drink.

Croix au Moines

88

null

Burgundy

Chablis

null

Chardonnay

Domaine Pommier

null

US

There is a ton of black pepper flavor in this stylish blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah. It also bears notes of licorice, sweet red currants, grilled prosciutto and sandalwood. This tastes so rich that it almost seems sweet, but it's actually dry and balanced.

Phenomenon

92

50

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Red Blend

Benessere

null

Argentina

Cherry, tea, spice and citrus peel aromas lead to a balanced palate. This tastes of citrus, raspberry, spiced plum and lightly buttered oak. A creamy sense carries over to the finish, but mostly this is lively and solid.

Art of the Andes

86

12

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Pinot Noir

Don Rodolfo

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Don Rodolfo 2015 Art of the Andes Pinot Noir (Mendoza)

US

Tastes grapey, with green table grape, pineapple, vanilla and spice flavors, and the finish is totally dry and crisp. It's a good, rich, savory wine, rather like a Pinot Gris, at a good price.

Old Vines

87

18

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Colombard

Y Rousseau

null

Italy

Red berry, white pepper, crushed herb and a balsamic note lead the nose on this elegant red. The tense, mid-weight palate offers raspberry, tart cherry, anise and clove framed in taut, polished tannins and bright acidity.

null

90

24

Piedmont

Ghemme

null

Red Blend

Ioppa

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Ioppa 2011 Ghemme

US

Thin and earthy, with notes of blackberries, olives and tobacco and thick, harsh acids and tannins that show up on the gritty finish. Pretty good for everyday fare at a decent price.

Private Selection

84

11

California

Central Coast

Merlot

Robert Mondavi

null

US

Compiled from a half dozen vineyards scattered throughout the northern Willamette Valley. Firm, sculpted and dense, this has more grip and depth than might be expected at this price point. Each vineyard's grapes were separately fermented; the blending has pulled them all together with dark, plummy flavors, notes of raisin, baking spices and caramel, and a smooth, penetrating finish.

Grande Cuvée

89

25

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Soléna

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Soléna 2008 Grande Cuvée Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)

US

This appears to be a wine that's simply over-reached. Noticeably high-toned, with a vinegary bite to the cherry flavored fruit, it's pushed it a bit too far. Not even 28 months in three quarters new French oak can mask the volatility.

Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4

84

50

Washington

Yakima Valley

Columbia Valley

Red Blend

Two Mountain

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Two Mountain 2009 Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4 Red (Yakima Valley)

Chile

This is a jammy, lusty wine with aromatic notes of graphite on top of core blackberry scents. The palate is chunky and full, while the flavor profile is pure jammy blackberry. A quick, staunch finish is a fine conclusion.

Gran Reserva

90

17

Colchagua Valley

null

Malbec

Alto Los Romeros

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Alto Los Romeros 2011 Gran Reserva Malbec (Colchagua Valley)

Italy

Aromas of black cherry, licorice, leather, violet and a whiff of tobacco open this wine. The palate is still a bit closed but delivers black raspberry, wild cherry, anisette and a note of black pepper alongside big, brooding tannins that need time to come around. Drink 2017–2024.

null

90

51

Piedmont

Barolo

null

Nebbiolo

Marchesi di Barolo

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Marchesi di Barolo 2009 Barolo

Germany

The nose of this pretty kabinett starts off demure, wafting fresh grapefruit, sage and lavender scents. The palate, by contrast, boasts tropical mango and berry tones. Boldly concentrated and brisk in acidity, it's a punchy, four-square Riesling with appeal well into the 2020s.

Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett

91

27

Mosel

null

Riesling

Dr. Pauly Bergweiler

Anna Lee C. Iijima

null

Dr. Pauly Bergweiler 2015 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett Riesling (Mosel)

US

A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 4% Malbec, this top-end offering from Macari boasts bold aromas of weedy cassis tempered with toast and chocolate. Will be considered overly green by some, pleasantly herbal by others, but no one will deny its lush mouthfeel and appealingly peppery finish.

Bergen Road

87

32

New York

North Fork of Long Island

Long Island

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Macari

null

France

Vendôme's situation, north of the River Loire, naturally lends itself to this bright style of rosé. It has a fine structure, forward red fruits and a light vanilla touch, well balanced and ready for food.

Lieu dit Cocagne

87

null

Loire Valley

Coteaux du Vendômois

null

Pineau d'Aunis

Les Vignerons du Vendômois

null

US

100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Wallula Vineyard, this brooding wine screams of the Horse Heaven Hills with notes of dusty earth, black currant, and bittersweet chocolate. It's tightly coiled and largely about structure with its firm tannins supporting concentrated cherry flavors. Needs time to come into its own but has the stuffing to lay down for a decade or more.

Andreas Cabernet Sauvignon Wallula Vineyard

92

80

Washington

Horse Heaven Hills

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Den Hoed

null

Chile

The nose on this blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère is herbal and a touch mulchy, with berry, coffee and olive aromas. The palate feels thick and on the cusp of syrupy, with baked, creamy black-fruit flavors that bring carob, chocolate and herbs accents to a modest finish. This is ripe in feel but still smells and tastes a bit herbal.

Private Edition

88

22

Cachapoal Valley

null

Red Blend

Valle Secreto

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Valle Secreto 2010 Private Edition Red (Cachapoal Valley)

US

Succulent and crisp; those two words are what you want in a California Pinot Gris, and you get them here. The pear, pineapple, peach and fig flavors are balanced with refreshing acidity, while a touch of oak and sur lie aging adds accents of smoke and creamy vanilla.

null

90

20

California

Sonoma Coast

Sonoma

Pinot Gris

MacMurray Ranch

null

MacMurray Ranch 2006 Pinot Gris (Sonoma Coast)

US

Gothic is the project of a New York-based restaurateur and sommelier team. This spent 10 months in 15% new French oak. Scents and flavors of rubber tire dominate, and the tannins are hard and harsh. Airing it out helps a bit, but the bitterness does not entirely disappear.

Nevermore

85

24

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Gothic

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Gothic 2013 Nevermore Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley)

US

Very rich and ripe in fruit, and also rich in new oak. The combination makes for mouth-filling blackberry and cherry pie filling, currant, licorice, dark chocolate and spicy flavors that are frankly delicious. The finish is quick, suggesting this lovely wine is best enjoyed in its youth.

Artistry

90

40

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Girard

null

Italy

This intriguing Amarone already shows complexity and depth. It has aromas of raisin, black fruit, graphite and spice, with a hint of leather. The palate delivers ripe but restrained plum and black cherry flavor, with soft white pepper and nutmeg notes, all supported by fresh acidity. Drink after 2015.

Casa dei Bepi

92

null

Veneto

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

null

Red Blend

Viviani

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Viviani 2008 Casa dei Bepi (Amarone della Valpolicella Classico)

Canada

An earthy, spicy nose gives this Riesling a masculine edge. On the palate, subtle flavors of pepper, spice and flowers dominate. A touch bitter but overall, an elegant sip. Imported by Henry Of Pelham Winery.

Reserve

84

15

Ontario

Niagara Peninsula

null

Riesling

Henry of Pelham

null

US

Soft and spicy, this Zin shows concentrated flavors of wild berries, tobacco, olive tapenade and sandalwood, liberally spiced and smoky on the finish. It's a little overripe. Enjoy with lusty fare, such as beef stews.

Reserve

87

50

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Zinfandel

Frank Family

null

Canada

Fresh and lively, this works the green side of the fruit spectrum, from gooseberry to grapefruit, with a dollop of wet stone. It's a good, all-purpose Sauvignon Blanc, not especially tart, with a welcome bit of barrel-induced roundness.

null

88

20

British Columbia

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Calliope

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Calliope 2013 Sauvignon Blanc (British Columbia)

France

This wood-aged cuvée from Château Belingard has great weight and concentration while also showing dense spice and blackberry flavors. At this stage, it is showing the wood; but in another year, it will round out and its dark juicy fruit will come forward.

Ortus

90

25

Southwest France

Côtes de Bergerac

null

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Château Bélingard

null

US

Richer and more complete than the '98 La Joie, with which it was simultaneously released. This wine shows its mountain origins in its tough young tannins and hard edges, but there is enough cherry and blackberry fruit for the long haul. Oak adds vanilla and toast, but this is a wine you need to cellar until 2009.

La Joie

90

100

California

Sonoma County

Sonoma

Red Blend

Verité

null

US

Made in a Super-Tuscan style with 49% of the blend Sangiovese (the rest 33% Cab Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 1% Zin and 1% Syrah) this wine is big, meaty and savory with sweet tannins and vanilla laced throughout while still balanced enough to be a good choice with red meat and red sauce.

Fiorente Red Wine

87

30

California

San Francisco Bay-Livermore Valley

Central Coast

Red Blend

Tamás Estates

null

Spain

Oaky aromas of milk chocolate and animal sit atop plum and cherry scents. This is a direct wine without a lot of nuance or layering: flavors of red plum and cherry are crisp and benefit from chocolaty oak, while the finish is solid in feel and tastes of oak and briny plum.

Loidana

88

30

Catalonia

Priorat

null

Red Blend

Marco Abella

null

US

Light, but elegant and pretty, this wine spent 17 months in 40% new oak. Fruit flavors emphasize tart berry, with a dash of earthy sandalwood.

Vintner's Reserve

88

30

Oregon

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Redhawk

null

Spain

This has raisin, earth, mint and dried herb aromas. It feels narrow, but concentrated, tasting of earthy tomato, baked plum and fresh green herb. It has a solid mouthfeel, with a mildly briney finish.

Crianza

84

9

Central Spain

La Mancha

null

Tempranillo

Finca Vieja

null

US

Nice and dry, with good varietal flavors of blackberries and currants, wrapped into rich tannins. It's a fine Cabernet to drink with ordinary food, and a good value.

Running with the Bulls

86

10

California

North Coast

Cabernet Sauvignon

Salvatore Principe

null

Italy

You'll love the delicate floral fragrances of this feminine, cool-climate northern Italian white. Acacia, jasmine and honeysuckle play a leading role with a supporting cast of stone fruit and pear. In the mouth, it's not particularly intense or thick.

Toretta Classico

86

14

Northeastern Italy

Alto Adige

null

White Blend

Girlan

null

Spain

Floral and not overpowering in style, with good red-fruit aromas. Feels smooth and silky, not edgy, with tasty berry flavors touched up by a dollop of oak and chocolate. A fresh, easy wine to sip by the glass or with casual tapas.

null

88

17

Northern Spain

Bierzo

null

Mencía

Luna Beberide

null

US

Scents of lemongrass, white flower, bees wax and pear are perky and well etched. Between the wine's keen acids and lemony flavor, this remains a bright, uplifting effort, with a clean, tangy finish.

Johannisberg

87

15

Virginia

Shenandoah Valley

null

Riesling

Shenandoah Vineyards

null

Shenandoah Vineyards 2011 Johannisberg Riesling (Shenandoah Valley)

US

This full-bodied wine has a voluptuous entry that's slightly tropical in pineapple and Asian pear, as well as vanilla-layered oak. The expansive beginning segues smoothly into a higher-wire act of minerality, finishing fleshy and fresh.

null

90

40

California

Los Carneros

Napa-Sonoma

Chardonnay

Vine Cliff

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Vine Cliff 2013 Chardonnay (Los Carneros)

US

In a cool year such as 2008, Pepper Bridge fruit gets a bit lean. This is tart and light, strawberry and cherry, amply supported with dried leaf and herb flavors. A streak of vanilla accents the hard tannins.

Pepper Bridge Vineyard Red

89

55

Washington

Walla Walla Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Pepper Bridge

null

Italy

From one of the best vintages in the last 15 years, this classic Barolo needs to be opened a couple of hours ahead of time to breathe. It's a bit shy on aromas but the palate delivers dried cherry, fig, tobacco, white pepper and black tea flavors. Youthful acidity accompanies silky tannins in this wine that is just starting to develop complexity. Drink through 2024.

Riserva

91

50

Piedmont

Barolo

null

Nebbiolo

Villadoria

Kerin O’Keefe

@kerinokeefe

Villadoria 2004 Riserva (Barolo)

US

Juicy black cherry and grippy oak are the stars of the show in this delicious red wine, softened by the addition of 16% Malbec. Elongated tannins support the leathery texture as highlights of cedar and sage play on.

Estate Grown

92

75

California

Mount Veeder

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Hess

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Hess 2014 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon (Mount Veeder)

US

Cherry, coffee and spicy cedar starts this masculine Cab from Penns Woods. On the palate, tobacco, red currant and pepper offer savory and sweet elements. The wine is balanced with good acidity and tannins. Pair with smoked ribs, hamburgers.

Reserve

85

46

Pennsylvania

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Penns Woods

Susan Kostrzewa

@suskostrzewa

Penns Woods 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Pennsylvania)

US

The wine is bone dry, with lots of mouthwatering acidity. The flavors are reticent but complex, suggesting sour blackberry candy and cherry skins, along with some firm tannins. Try aging it until 2017 to let it soften as much as it ever will.

Babcock Vineyard

88

40

California

Sta. Rita Hills

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

a-non-ah-mus

null

Portugal

Strong wood aromas continue to the palate of this firm, dry wine. Underneath, there is enough juicy fruit to bring richness as well as structure. It still needs time. Drink from 2016.

Brutalis

91

25

Lisboa

null

Portuguese Red

Vidigal

null

Argentina

This jumpy, lively Malbec is a hulk that starts with funky aromas of wet dog and bacon before settling to reveal bold blackberry and plum notes. It's saturated and solid in the mouth, where black-fruit flavors dominate. On the finish comes spice and mocha. A full-force wine that needs time in the glass to show its best.

Maipo Vineyards

87

11

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Malbec

Pascual Toso

null

US

This pure Cabernet Franc, aged in 100% second-use French oak, displays nicely ripened fruit flavors of blackberry and black cherry. Highlights of black pepper dapple the finish, which at first seems attenuated, but opens up nicely with extended breathing time.

null

88

50

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Cabernet Franc

Woodinville Wine Cellars

null

US

Heavy and full-bodied, a dense, soft Pinot Noir that seems too ripe for comfort. The cherry and currant flavors veer into raisins. The vineyard is from the warmest part of Russian River Valley, almost into Dry Creek Valley.

Bacigalupi Vineyards

85

42

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Pinot Noir

John Tyler

null

John Tyler 2006 Bacigalupi Vineyards Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)

US

Rich and ripe, this features blackberry and currant flavors whose acidity provides a citrusy, jammy tartness. This is the winery's least expensive bottling, and an enticing introduction to its future releases of '09 vineyard-designated Cabs.

null

87

38

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Sequoia Grove

null

US

This is one of those kitchen sink blends that is better than it has a right to be. Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Muscat, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris are all in the mix, and the wine is both aromatic and packed with fresh flavors of bubble gum and tropical fruit candy. It's finished dry, yielding a multipurpose, unique white wine that you may try with just about any food you'd put in front of any of the component grapes.

Amycas

90

18

Oregon

Willamette Valley

White Blend

Brooks

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Brooks 2015 Amycas White (Willamette Valley)

US

This full-bodied and beautifully flavored wine goes deep in terms of ripe fruit and subtle spices, and has a calm, composed character and ultrasmooth, slightly restrained texture. Delicious black-cherry and currant notes come out in the bouquet, weave through the palate and linger on the finish.

Gowan Creek Vineyard

93

82

California

Anderson Valley

null

Pinot Noir

Goldeneye

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Goldeneye 2013 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley)

US

This is a very nice Riesling for drinking with today's ethnic fare. Although it's softer than you'd expect from this normally tart varietal, it's clean and spicy, with citrus, flower and honey flavors. The sweetness level is off-dry.

null

84

25

California

California Other

Riesling

Black Box

null

Italy

Primitivo is Zinfandel, according to University of California at Davis ampelographers (students of grape DNA), but that doesn't mean they taste the same, as this medium-weight southern Italian version proves. Dark cherry, leather, coffee and cocoa predominate here, with some nice spice, tar and a slight black pepperiness (maybe that's the Zin gene) on the finish.

Winemaker's Collection Primitivo

85

9

Southern Italy

Puglia

null

Primitivo

Canaletto

null

France

The vintage has given a rich wine, one that is still young. Over the wood notes are ripe yellow fruits, orange marmalade and intense acidity. Age this concentrated wine for 2–3 years.

Cuvée Pauline

91

26

Southwest France

Jurançon Sec

null

Petit Manseng

Château Jolys

null

US

Made in the Edmeades style of high alcohol and exceptional ripeness, this is a powerfully explosive Zin. Fully dry, it's packed with black currant, cassis, plum jam, dark chocolate and spice flavors that are wrapped into hard tannins. Will soften in time. Best now through 2012.

Perli Vineyard

90

30

California

Mendocino Ridge

null

Zinfandel

Edmeades

null

Edmeades 2006 Perli Vineyard Zinfandel (Mendocino Ridge)

Italy

Tormaresca delivers a beautiful expression of Negroamaro. Quality aromas of blackberry and cherry liqueur emerge on the bouquet, and oak-driven tones of almond and chocolate follow through on the finish. It's soft, plush and bold.

Masseria Maìme

91

null

Southern Italy

Salento

null

Negroamaro

Tormaresca

null

Italy

This dark garnet colored Brunello opens with straightforward and uncomplicated aromas of wild berry, spice and leather. This wine also shows a high level of confidence that is seen in its firm tannins, crisp acidity and rich aftertaste of clove and black fruit.

null

91

65

Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino

null

Sangiovese Grosso

Brunelli Martoccia

null

France

An earthy, easy wine that shouts of fresh Sauvignon Blanc, with its crisp acidity, grassy aromas and green fruit flavors. Just bottled, it will stay at peak freshness during the summer months.

Beau Mayne

84

9

Bordeaux

Bordeaux Blanc

null

Sauvignon

Dourthe

null

Chile

Light and brambly smelling, with leathery red-fruit aromas. Feels juicy and lifted but tastes tart, with medicinal flavors of spunky raspberry and sour red plum. Finishes with medium length and a minty, herbal aftertaste.

null

83

13

Central Valley

null

Cabernet Sauvignon

Maniña

null

Argentina

Steady as a rock, with smoky, charred aromas mixed with beautiful black fruit scents as well as accents of licorice and earth. For anyone enthralled with New World ripeness, this is the ticket. It's a blend of 70% Malbec and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it is lush, packed with blackberry and boysenberry flavors, and viscous on the finish. Complete and special at every level.

Finca Pedregal Single Vineyard

93

82

Mendoza Province

Mendoza

null

Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon

Pascual Toso

null

Italy

This delivers savory aromas of wet earth, wild mushroom, ripe fruit and cherry cola. The tannic imprinting is very strong and astringent at this stage; give this 5–10 more years.

Cascina Ferrero

88

40

Piedmont

Barolo

null

Nebbiolo

Tenuta Carretta

null

France

This is a stunning selection, with layers of aromas and flavors that unfold with each passing moment. Concentrated primary notes of blackberry, plum and boysenberry lead, with accents of sweet spice, licorice, soft char, tobacco leaf and menthol following shortly after. The palate is intense and lush, with a full weight and a gripping, thick texture. Hints of oaky spice and cocoa powder linger through the endless finish. Delicious now, but should continue to develop well through 2018.

Le Clos des Fées

93

75

Languedoc-Roussillon

Côtes du Roussillon Villages

null

Rhône-style Red Blend

Domaine du Clos des Fées

Lauren Buzzeo

@laurbuzz

Domaine du Clos des Fées 2008 Le Clos des Fées Red (Côtes du Roussillon Villages)

Italy

Clove, exotic spice, dark chocolate and cured meat come to the forefront of this rich, plush Barbera d'Alba. There's power and bright acidity here and the wine tastes rich, smooth and enduring on the palate. Pair it with cheese-stuffed ravioli.

Rocche delle Rocche

91

null

Piedmont

Barbera d'Alba Superiore

null

Barbera

Rocche Costamagna

null

US

Aromas of vanilla and baking spice are followed by ample red fruit and spice flavors. The acids are tart, giving the wine a zing.

Stillwater Creek Vineyard

89

34

Washington

Columbia Valley (WA)

Columbia Valley

Merlot

Merry Cellars

Sean P. Sullivan

@wawinereport

Merry Cellars 2013 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Merlot (Columbia Valley (WA))

Portugal

Wood aging gives this ripe wine its toasty character. This texture is balanced by rich peach and apricot fruits, rounded and fruity. Old vines bring an extra concentration to this full, generous wine. Drink from 2016.

Reserva Branco

89

18

Douro

null

Portuguese White

Quinta de Porrais

null

France

Serious Sauvignon Blanc from the Saget home domaine, this full and ripe wine has considerable depth of flavor. Like many wines from Pouilly, it is for aging, a rich, concentrated wine that needs at 3–4 years.

Le Domaine

92

null

Loire Valley

Pouilly-Fumé

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Saget la Perrière

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Saget la Perrière 2011 Le Domaine (Pouilly-Fumé)

US

Subtle aromas and flavors of crisp apple and cherry, a dry composition, fine texture and crisp finish make this rather reserved and well balanced. This reliable standby is the kind of bubbly to have on hand for spur-of-the-moment occasions.

Brut

88

14

California

California Other

Sparkling Blend

Korbel

Jim Gordon

@gordone_cellars

Korbel NV Brut Sparkling (California)

US

Everything about this wine is designed to flatter the palate, from the cherry and black raspberry fruit, dusted with dry crushed spices, to the overlay of richly toasted oak, to the soft, yielding tannins. What's not to like? It ain't grand cru Burgundy, but it sure is nice drinking. —S.H.

null

87

20

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Pinot Noir

Koves-Newlan

null

Koves-Newlan 1999 Pinot Noir (Napa Valley)

Spain

Pinched and wiry-smelling on the nose, this Garnacha comes around with earthy red-berry aromas in front of a full, chunky, fairly oaky palate. Flavors of blackberry and vanilla are good but common, while the finish is dense but basic.

Old Vine

86

10

Northern Spain

Cariñena

null

Garnacha

Valcantara

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Valcantara 2012 Old Vine Garnacha (Cariñena)

US

Meat, compost and leather notes mark the entry of this Syrah blended with smaller amounts of Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah. Light black pepper and red fruit flavors are sustained by a soft, round texture and lingering finish.

null

90

38

California

Russian River Valley

Sonoma

Syrah

Crux

null

US

A rich umami character of smoked beef, freshly laid pavement and cola mixes with sour cherries and a light raspberry element on the nose of this wine. Flavors are quite dynamic, with a punchy strawberry-raspberry-sour cherry juice picking up complexity from a eucalyptus bite.

null

90

25

California

Santa Lucia Highlands

Central Coast

Pinot Noir

Sextant

Matt Kettmann

@mattkettmann

Sextant 2013 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Italy

Toasted hazelnut, orchard fruit and citrus scents take center stage. On the elegant palate, a flinty mineral note underscores lemon zest and pear flavors while a nutty hint closes the finish.

null

88

15

Southern Italy

Fiano di Avellino

null

Fiano

Torricino

null

Spain

If you catch this wine young and properly chilled, it isn't that bad. It's very sweet and sugary, with candied melon, mango and citrus flavors. Then it gets more tropical on the finish, with ending notes of banana and mango. On the verge of tasting fake but not quite.

Satinela Medium-Sweet

84

9

Northern Spain

Rioja

null

White Blend

Marqués de Cáceres

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Marqués de Cáceres 2007 Satinela Medium-Sweet White (Rioja)

Chile

Every year this Sauvignon Blanc manages to deliver fresh citrus aromas and flavors, a full blast of zest, and all the food-matching capabilities one could ask for. On the nose, it's mostly passion fruit, while flavors include green apple and kiwi.

Reserve

88

10

Casablanca Valley

null

Sauvignon Blanc

Montes

null

US

This is young, quite sharp and still showing some rough edges. The fruit is crisp and pure, with well-defined flavors of raspberry and cherry candy. The tannins have a green tea, earthy quality, but some additional bottle age will help round them out.

Estate Cuvée

87

32

Oregon

McMinnville

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Maysara

Paul Gregutt

@paulgwine

Maysara 2007 Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir (McMinnville)

France

This is a traditional style—emphasizing earthy tannins and spicy fruit and is rough around the edges—but is a wine that would relish being partnered with sausages, salamis and hard cheeses. There is plenty of weight, the acidity coming from minerality and wood.

Cuvée des Vignes Centenaires

87

50

Southwest France

Cahors

null

Malbec

Clos de Gamot

Roger Voss

@vossroger

Clos de Gamot 2002 Cuvée des Vignes Centenaires Malbec (Cahors)

US

This is the winery's core Bordeaux blend (“étalon” means “stallion” in French), and it delivers firm, full, even fleshy flavors. All five Bordeaux varieties are included in the blend. A ripe though not quite voluptuous style, it shows the fruit well with a solid presence and nice, firm structure. Polished but still youthful, it takes the new oak in stride and should continue to evolve nicely over the next decade.

L'Etalon

90

30

Washington

Yakima Valley

Columbia Valley

Bordeaux-style Red Blend

Brian Carter Cellars

null

Australia

This full-bodied, creamy-textured wine is a bit peppery and herbal but also filled with lush cherry fruit, making for a dynamic, engaging contrast. The slightly dusty, peppery edge to the finish will help it stand up to fattier cuts of beef or lamb.

Tipico Grenache-Monastrell-Shiraz

90

23

South Australia

McLaren Vale

null

Rhône-style Red Blend

Cascabel

null

Austria

Apricot aromas are followed by ripe fruit flavors, giving a rich texture, yet retaining a very clean, fresh character. Opulence with steel.

1000 Eimerberg Smaragd

92

40

Wachau

null

Riesling

Gritsch Mauritiushof

null

US

This Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre blend shows hot alcohol and superripe flavors of blackberries, cassis, dark chocolate and raisins. It's a big, rich, thick wine that sticks to the gums, almost syrupy, but fully dry. Decant it and drink with stews, casseroles, barbecue.

Aurelio's Selection

87

35

California

Paso Robles

Central Coast

Rhône-style Red Blend

Star Angel by Montes

null

Star Angel by Montes 2009 Aurelio's Selection Red (Paso Robles)

US

This delicious 100% Cabernet is supple and generous. The tannins are gentle, the acidity soft yet supportive of the structure, and as for the flavors, they go beyond satisfaction into sheer delight. They include blackberry, cherry, blueberry, currant, mocha and red licorice, but the wine has an earthiness and minerality that give it true complexity. This is Stag's Leap's most accessible 2009 Cabernet, easily earning its high score for sheer delight. Drink now–2015.

FAY Estate

94

95

California

Napa Valley

Napa

Cabernet Sauvignon

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

null

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 2009 FAY Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)

Spain

Solid as a rock, with earthy berry and mild herbal aromas. The palate is firm and a touch angular, with sweet raisin, blackberry, candy and chocolate flavors. Long and steady on the finish, with a nice mix of freshness and richness that serves it well. Drink now through 2013.

null

89

null

Catalonia

Priorat

null

Red Blend

Mas Dels Frares

null

Spain

There's no denying that this is a heavily oaked Rioja with toast, resin, vanilla and cheesy aromas alongside fully ripe blackberry and prune notes. There's energy to the palate, while previously mentioned heavy oak spawns flavors of vanilla and spice to go with berry fruit. A mouth-coating, woody finish stands out on this compartmentalized Tempranillo-led blend. Drink through 2023.

Inspiración Valdemar Selección

90

24

Northern Spain

Rioja

null

Tempranillo Blend

Bodegas Valdemar

Michael Schachner

@wineschach

Bodegas Valdemar 2011 Inspiración Valdemar Selección (Rioja)

US

This is classic Oregon Pinot Noir at its most svelte and stylish. Fresh and clean upon entry, it showcases its raspberry and cherry fruit in a delicate wrap of leaf and bark. The tannins are in perfect proportion; the finish is complex and intriguing.

Louise Vineyard

93

50

Oregon

Eola-Amity Hills

Willamette Valley

Pinot Noir

Cristom

null

Argentina

An intense Malbec-led marauder with rubbery black fruit aromas, spice and mile-deep ripeness. Pure, modern, beefy and purple, with rich black fruit flavors and also some sweeter blueberry notes. Finishes sizable but smooth. Drinkable now but better in a year. 70% Malbec with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cab Franc.

Gran Corte

91

50

Mendoza Province

Tupungato

null

Red Blend

Riglos

null

US

Structured in tight red-fruit character, this wine—from a two-acre, dry-farmed vineyard—is floral and nicely adorned in acidity, making for an elegant take on the variety. It is also not overdone in oak, letting the vibrant black cherry and just-picked blackberry dominate.

Buchignani Vineyard

91

35

California

Dry Creek Valley

Sonoma

Zinfandel

Keating

Virginie Boone

@vboone

Keating 2012 Buchignani Vineyard Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley)