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November 17, 2019 18:03
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| country | description | designation | points | price | province | region_1 | region_2 | taster_name | taster_twitter_handle | title | variety | winery | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Italy | Aromas include tropical fruit, broom, brimstone and dried herb. The palate isn't overly expressive, offering unripened apple, citrus and dried sage alongside brisk acidity. | Vulkà Bianco | 87 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Nicosia 2013 Vulkà Bianco (Etna) | White Blend | Nicosia | |||
| 1 | Portugal | This is ripe and fruity, a wine that is smooth while still structured. Firm tannins are filled out with juicy red berry fruits and freshened with acidity. It's already drinkable, although it will certainly be better from 2016. | Avidagos | 87 | 15.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta dos Avidagos 2011 Avidagos Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Quinta dos Avidagos | |||
| 2 | US | Tart and snappy, the flavors of lime flesh and rind dominate. Some green pineapple pokes through, with crisp acidity underscoring the flavors. The wine was all stainless-steel fermented. | 87 | 14.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Rainstorm 2013 Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Gris | Rainstorm | ||
| 3 | US | Pineapple rind, lemon pith and orange blossom start off the aromas. The palate is a bit more opulent, with notes of honey-drizzled guava and mango giving way to a slightly astringent, semidry finish. | Reserve Late Harvest | 87 | 13.0 | Michigan | Lake Michigan Shore | Alexander Peartree | St. Julian 2013 Reserve Late Harvest Riesling (Lake Michigan Shore) | Riesling | St. Julian | |||
| 4 | US | Much like the regular bottling from 2012, this comes across as rather rough and tannic, with rustic, earthy, herbal characteristics. Nonetheless, if you think of it as a pleasantly unfussy country wine, it's a good companion to a hearty winter stew. | Vintner's Reserve Wild Child Block | 87 | 65.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Sweet Cheeks 2012 Vintner's Reserve Wild Child Block Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Sweet Cheeks | |
| 5 | Spain | Blackberry and raspberry aromas show a typical Navarran whiff of green herbs and, in this case, horseradish. In the mouth, this is fairly full bodied, with tomatoey acidity. Spicy, herbal flavors complement dark plum fruit, while the finish is fresh but grabby. | Ars In Vitro | 87 | 15.0 | Northern Spain | Navarra | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Tandem 2011 Ars In Vitro Tempranillo-Merlot (Navarra) | Tempranillo-Merlot | Tandem | ||
| 6 | Italy | Here's a bright, informal red that opens with aromas of candied berry, white pepper and savory herb that carry over to the palate. It's balanced with fresh acidity and soft tannins. | Belsito | 87 | 16.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Vittoria | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Terre di Giurfo 2013 Belsito Frappato (Vittoria) | Frappato | Terre di Giurfo | ||
| 7 | France | This dry and restrained wine offers spice in profusion. Balanced with acidity and a firm texture, it's very much for food. | 87 | 24.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Trimbach 2012 Gewurztraminer (Alsace) | Gewürztraminer | Trimbach | |||
| 8 | Germany | Savory dried thyme notes accent sunnier flavors of preserved peach in this brisk, off-dry wine. It's fruity and fresh, with an elegant, sprightly footprint. | Shine | 87 | 12.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Heinz Eifel 2013 Shine Gewürztraminer (Rheinhessen) | Gewürztraminer | Heinz Eifel | ||||
| 9 | France | This has great depth of flavor with its fresh apple and pear fruits and touch of spice. It's off dry while balanced with acidity and a crisp texture. Drink now. | Les Natures | 87 | 27.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jean-Baptiste Adam 2012 Les Natures Pinot Gris (Alsace) | Pinot Gris | Jean-Baptiste Adam | ||
| 10 | US | Soft, supple plum envelopes an oaky structure in this Cabernet, supported by 15% Merlot. Coffee and chocolate complete the picture, finishing strong at the end, resulting in a value-priced wine of attractive flavor and immediate accessibility. | Mountain Cuvée | 87 | 19.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Kirkland Signature 2011 Mountain Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Kirkland Signature | |
| 11 | France | This is a dry wine, very spicy, with a tight, taut texture and strongly mineral character layered with citrus as well as pepper. It's a food wine with its almost crisp aftertaste. | 87 | 30.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Leon Beyer 2012 Gewurztraminer (Alsace) | Gewürztraminer | Leon Beyer | |||
| 12 | US | Slightly reduced, this wine offers a chalky, tannic backbone to an otherwise juicy explosion of rich black cherry, the whole accented throughout by firm oak and cigar box. | 87 | 34.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Louis M. Martini 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Louis M. Martini | ||
| 13 | Italy | This is dominated by oak and oak-driven aromas that include roasted coffee bean, espresso, coconut and vanilla that carry over to the palate, together with plum and chocolate. Astringent, drying tannins give it a rather abrupt finish. | Rosso | 87 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Masseria Setteporte 2012 Rosso (Etna) | Nerello Mascalese | Masseria Setteporte | |||
| 14 | US | Building on 150 years and six generations of winemaking tradition, the winery trends toward a leaner style, with the classic California buttercream aroma cut by tart green apple. In this good everyday sipping wine, flavors that range from pear to barely ripe pineapple prove approachable but not distinctive. | 87 | 12.0 | California | Central Coast | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Mirassou 2012 Chardonnay (Central Coast) | Chardonnay | Mirassou | ||
| 15 | Germany | Zesty orange peels and apple notes abound in this sprightly, mineral-toned Riesling. Off dry on the palate, yet racy and lean, it's a refreshing, easy quaffer with wide appeal. | Devon | 87 | 24.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Richard Böcking 2013 Devon Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Richard Böcking | ||||
| 16 | Argentina | Baked plum, molasses, balsamic vinegar and cheesy oak aromas feed into a palate that's braced by a bolt of acidity. A compact set of saucy red-berry and plum flavors features tobacco and peppery accents, while the finish is mildly green in flavor, with respectable weight and balance. | Felix | 87 | 30.0 | Other | Cafayate | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Felix Lavaque 2010 Felix Malbec (Cafayate) | Malbec | Felix Lavaque | ||
| 17 | Argentina | Raw black-cherry aromas are direct and simple but good. This has a juicy feel that thickens over time, with oak character and extract becoming more apparent. A flavor profile driven by dark-berry fruits and smoldering oak finishes meaty but hot. | Winemaker Selection | 87 | 13.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Gaucho Andino 2011 Winemaker Selection Malbec (Mendoza) | Malbec | Gaucho Andino | ||
| 18 | Spain | Desiccated blackberry, leather, charred wood and mint aromas carry the nose on this full-bodied, tannic, heavily oaked Tinto Fino. Flavors of clove and woodspice sit on top of blackberry fruit, then hickory and other forceful oak-based aromas rise up and dominate the finish. | Vendimia Seleccionada Finca Valdelayegua Single Vineyard Crianza | 87 | 28.0 | Northern Spain | Ribera del Duero | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Pradorey 2010 Vendimia Seleccionada Finca Valdelayegua Single Vineyard Crianza (Ribera del Duero) | Tempranillo Blend | Pradorey | ||
| 19 | US | Red fruit aromas pervade on the nose, with cigar box and menthol notes riding in the back. The palate is slightly restrained on entry, but opens up to riper notes of cherry and plum specked with crushed pepper. This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is approachable now and ready to be enjoyed. | 87 | 32.0 | Virginia | Virginia | Alexander Peartree | Quiévremont 2012 Meritage (Virginia) | Meritage | Quiévremont | ||||
| 20 | US | Ripe aromas of dark berries mingle with ample notes of black pepper, toasted vanilla and dusty tobacco. The palate is oak-driven in nature, but notes of tart red currant shine through, offering a bit of levity. | Vin de Maison | 87 | 23.0 | Virginia | Virginia | Alexander Peartree | Quiévremont 2012 Vin de Maison Red (Virginia) | Red Blend | Quiévremont | |||
| 21 | US | A sleek mix of tart berry, stem and herb, along with a hint of oak and chocolate, this is a fair value in a widely available, drink-now Oregon Pinot. The wine oak-aged for six months, whether in neutral or re-staved is not indicated. | 87 | 20.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Acrobat 2013 Pinot Noir (Oregon) | Pinot Noir | Acrobat | ||
| 22 | Italy | Delicate aromas recall white flower and citrus. The palate offers passion fruit, lime and white peach with a hint of mineral alongside bright acidity. | Ficiligno | 87 | 19.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Baglio di Pianetto 2007 Ficiligno White (Sicilia) | White Blend | Baglio di Pianetto | ||
| 23 | US | This wine from the Geneseo district offers aromas of sour plums and just enough cigar box to tempt the nose. The flavors are a bit flat at first, then the acidity and tension of sour cherries emerges in the midpalate, bolstered by some black licorice. | Signature Selection | 87 | 22.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Bianchi 2011 Signature Selection Merlot (Paso Robles) | Merlot | Bianchi | |
| 24 | Italy | Aromas of prune, blackcurrant, toast and oak carry through to the extracted palate, along with flavors of black cherry and roasted coffee beans. Firm but drying tannins provide the framework. | Aynat | 87 | 35.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Canicattì 2009 Aynat Nero d'Avola (Sicilia) | Nero d'Avola | Canicattì | ||
| 25 | US | Oak and earth intermingle around robust aromas of wet forest floor in this vineyard-designated Pinot that hails from a high-elevation site. Small in production, it offers intense, full-bodied raspberry and blackberry steeped in smoky spice and smooth texture. | King Ridge Vineyard | 87 | 69.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Castello di Amorosa 2011 King Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | Castello di Amorosa | |
| 26 | Italy | Pretty aromas of yellow flower and stone fruit lead the nose. The bright palate offers yellow apple, apricot, vanilla and delicate notes of lightly toasted oak alongside crisp acidity. | Dalila | 87 | 13.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Terre Siciliane | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Stemmari 2013 Dalila White (Terre Siciliane) | White Blend | Stemmari | ||
| 27 | Italy | Aromas recall ripe dark berry, toast and a whiff of cake spice. The soft, informal palate offers sour cherry, vanilla and a hint of espresso alongside round tannins. Drink soon. | 87 | 10.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Terre Siciliane | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Stemmari 2013 Nero d'Avola (Terre Siciliane) | Nero d'Avola | Stemmari | |||
| 28 | Italy | Aromas suggest mature berry, scorched earth, animal, toast and anise. The palate offers ripe black berry, oak, espresso, cocoa and vanilla alongside dusty tannins. | Mascaria Barricato | 87 | 17.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Cerasuolo di Vittoria | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Terre di Giurfo 2011 Mascaria Barricato (Cerasuolo di Vittoria) | Red Blend | Terre di Giurfo | ||
| 29 | US | Clarksburg is becoming a haven for Chenin Blanc in California. This bottling, using fruit sourced from several vineyards in the area, is balanced with just a trace of sweetness in the background (1% residual sugar). This is crisp, straightforward and blessed with notes of pear and lime. Drink it cold. | 86 | 16.0 | California | Clarksburg | Central Valley | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Clarksburg Wine Company 2010 Chenin Blanc (Clarksburg) | Chenin Blanc | Clarksburg Wine Company | ||
| 30 | France | Red cherry fruit comes laced with light tannins, giving this bright wine an open, juicy character. | Nouveau | 86 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine de la Madone 2012 Nouveau (Beaujolais-Villages) | Gamay | Domaine de la Madone | |||
| 31 | Italy | Merlot and Nero d'Avola form the base for this easy red wine that would pair with fettuccine and meat sauce or pork roast. The quality of the fruit is clean, bright and sharp. | Calanìca Nero d'Avola-Merlot | 86 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Duca di Salaparuta 2010 Calanìca Nero d'Avola-Merlot Red (Sicilia) | Red Blend | Duca di Salaparuta | |||||
| 32 | Italy | Part of the extended Calanìca series, this Grillo-Viognier blend shows aromas of honeysuckle and jasmine, backed by touches of cut grass and wild sage. In the mouth, it shows ripe yellow-fruit flavors. | Calanìca Grillo-Viognier | 86 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Duca di Salaparuta 2011 Calanìca Grillo-Viognier White (Sicilia) | White Blend | Duca di Salaparuta | |||||
| 33 | US | Rustic and dry, this has flavors of berries, currants, licorice and spices. Made from Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. | Puma Springs Vineyard | 86 | 50.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Envolve 2010 Puma Springs Vineyard Red (Dry Creek Valley) | Red Blend | Envolve | |||
| 34 | US | This shows a tart, green gooseberry flavor that is similar to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Other notes include tropical fruit, orange and honey. Unoaked, with a splash of Muscat, this has commendable dryness and acidity. | 86 | 20.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Envolve 2011 Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Envolve | ||||
| 35 | US | As with many of the Erath 2010 vineyard designates, this is strongly herbal. The notes of leaf and herb create somewhat unripe flavor impressions, with a touch of bitterness on the finish. The fruit just passes the ripeness of sweet tomatoes. | Hyland | 86 | 50.0 | Oregon | McMinnville | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Erath 2010 Hyland Pinot Noir (McMinnville) | Pinot Noir | Erath | |
| 36 | Chile | White flower, lychee and apple aromas carry the mellow bouquet. The chunky-feeling palate bears powdery, sweet flavors of peach and melon, mixed with greener notes of grass and lime. The 80% Viognier component is typical of the warm climate: plump and oily, with a short finish. Chardonnay fills out the blend. | Estate | 86 | 15.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Estampa 2011 Estate Viognier-Chardonnay (Colchagua Valley) | Viognier-Chardonnay | Estampa | |||
| 37 | Italy | This concentrated Cabernet offers aromas of cured meat, dried fruit and rosemary. Barbecue spice and teriyaki sauce flavors give the wine a bold, chewy feel. | Missoni | 86 | 21.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Feudi del Pisciotto 2010 Missoni Cabernet Sauvignon (Sicilia) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Feudi del Pisciotto | ||||
| 38 | Italy | Inky in color, this wine has plump aromas of ripe fruit, blackberry jam and rum cake. On the palate, it is soft and smooth. | I Tratturi | 86 | 11.0 | Southern Italy | Puglia | Feudi di San Marzano 2011 I Tratturi Primitivo (Puglia) | Primitivo | Feudi di San Marzano | ||||
| 39 | Italy | Part of the natural wine movement, this wine is made from organic grapes, and the label is printed with vegetable ink on recycled paper. The quality of fruit is very nice, with a juicy palate and a bright berry flavor on the finish. | Purato Made With Organic Grapes | 86 | 12.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Feudo di Santa Tresa 2011 Purato Made With Organic Grapes Nero d'Avola (Sicilia) | Nero d'Avola | Feudo di Santa Tresa | ||||
| 40 | Italy | Catarratto is one of Sicily's most widely farmed white grape varieties. This expression shows a mineral note, backed by citrus and almond blossom touches. | 86 | 17.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Feudo Montoni 2011 Catarratto (Sicilia) | Catarratto | Feudo Montoni | |||||
| 41 | US | A stiff, tannic wine, this slowly opens and brings brambly berry flavors into play, along with notes of earthy herbs. There's a touch of bitterness to the tannins. | 86 | 22.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Hawkins Cellars 2009 Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Hawkins Cellars | ||
| 42 | France | This is a festive wine, with soft, ripe fruit and acidity, plus a red berry flavor. | Nouveau | 86 | 9.0 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henry Fessy 2012 Nouveau (Beaujolais) | Gamay | Henry Fessy | ||
| 43 | US | The clean, brisk mouthfeel gives this slightly oaked Sauvignon Blanc instant likeability. It's dry with a rich streak of honey that sweetens the citrus, pear and tropical fruit flavors. Pair this with Asian fare, ham or a green salad with grapefruit sections. | 86 | 14.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Robert Hall 2011 Sauvignon Blanc (Paso Robles) | Sauvignon Blanc | Robert Hall | ||||
| 44 | Chile | A berry aroma comes with cola and herb notes. The palate is tangy and racy, and it delivers raspberry and plum flavors, with a modest finish. | 86 | 9.0 | Maule Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Sundance 2011 Merlot (Maule Valley) | Merlot | Sundance | ||||
| 45 | US | Right out of the starting blocks this is an oaky wine, dripping with caramel and vanilla notes. The texture on the midpalate is finessed and graceful, with drying tannins that latch onto the oak-driven finish. An eccentric blend of 50% Tannat, 35% Petit Verdot and 15% Pinotage. | #SocialSecret | 86 | 40.0 | Virginia | Virginia | Tarara 2010 #SocialSecret Red (Virginia) | Red Blend | Tarara | ||||
| 46 | Italy | Spicy, fresh and clean, this would pair with fried seafood or spaghetti con vongole. It offers pretty citrus tones followed by a drying mineral nuance. | Sallier de la Tour | 86 | 13.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Tasca d'Almerita 2011 Sallier de la Tour Inzolia (Sicilia) | Inzolia | Tasca d'Almerita | ||||
| 47 | US | This is a sweet wine with flavors of white sugar, orange, honey and vanilla, all brightened by crisp acidity. | 86 | 13.0 | California | Lake County | The White Knight 2011 Riesling (Lake County) | Riesling | The White Knight | |||||
| 48 | US | This bottling resembles the New Zealand paradigm of Sauvignon Blanc, bearing aromas of grapefruit, passion fruit and kiwi; a sprinkling of graham cracker adds interest. The wine hits the palate like a fleshy fist, with an intense, grassy gooseberry flavor that provides plenty of punch. Pair with apricot-glazed roasted chicken. | 86 | 16.0 | Virginia | Monticello | Trump 2011 Sauvignon Blanc (Monticello) | Sauvignon Blanc | Trump | |||||
| 49 | France | Soft and fruity, this is a generous, ripe wine that's full of juicy red-cherry fruits and gentle tannins. It has some richness, giving a sweet character to this open, ready-to-drink wine. | Eté Indien | 86 | 14.0 | Beaujolais | Brouilly | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Vignerons de Bel Air 2011 Eté Indien (Brouilly) | Gamay | Vignerons de Bel Air | ||
| 50 | Italy | This blend of Nero d'Avola and Syrah opens with savory aromas of cured meat, dried berry, cassis, tobacco and wet earth. There's a touch of almond bitterness on the finish. | Scialo | 86 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Viticultori Associati Canicatti 2008 Scialo Red (Sicilia) | Red Blend | Viticultori Associati Canicatti | |||||
| 51 | Chile | This is much different than Casa Silva's 2009 Petit Verdot, which was tasted in the same flight. The '08 is more hard, spicy and tarry, with a leafy, herbal aroma, plus some grittiness. The palate feels snappy, with a can't-miss saltiness. The finish is long in length but short on fruit, with a raw feel. | Gran Reserva | 85 | 22.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Casa Silva 2008 Gran Reserva Petit Verdot (Colchagua Valley) | Petit Verdot | Casa Silva | |||
| 52 | Italy | The Monica grape often shows a rustic or raw quality, with aromas of cherry cola, black pepper and sour fruit. This expression does just that, with an added touch of bright acidity on the finish. | Dolia | 85 | 14.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Monica di Sardegna | Cantine di Dolianova 2010 Dolia (Monica di Sardegna) | Monica | Cantine di Dolianova | ||||
| 53 | France | Fruity and lightly herbaceous, this has fine textured acidity along with a pink grapefruit flavor. The wine is bright and easy, and it will be ready to drink in a few months. | La Fleur d'Amélie | 85 | 15.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de Sours 2011 La Fleur d'Amélie (Bordeaux Blanc) | Bordeaux-style White Blend | Château de Sours | ||
| 54 | Italy | A blend of Nero d'Avola and Nerello Mascalese, this delivers forest berry and cola, with blue flower and dusty mineral accents. The palate is easy, bright and lean. | Rosso | 85 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Corvo 2010 Rosso Red (Sicilia) | Red Blend | Corvo | |||||
| 55 | US | This shows jelly-like flavors of orange and pear, with some earthy tones. The mouthfeel is soft and there's a bounty of oak in the form of buttered toast and caramel notes. | Estate Bottled | 85 | 30.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | RustRidge 2010 Estate Bottled Chardonnay (Napa Valley) | Chardonnay | RustRidge | |||
| 56 | US | This is weighty, creamy and medium to full in body. It has plenty of lime and pear flavors, plus slight brown sugar and vanilla notes. | 85 | 14.0 | California | North Coast | North Coast | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Souverain 2010 Chardonnay (North Coast) | Chardonnay | Souverain | ||
| 57 | Italy | There's a touch of toasted almond at the start, but then this Grillo revs up in the glass to deliver notes of citrus, stone fruit, crushed stone and lemon tart. The mouthfeel is crisp and simple. | Sallier de la Tour | 85 | 13.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Tasca d'Almerita 2011 Sallier de la Tour Grillo (Sicilia) | Grillo | Tasca d'Almerita | ||||
| 58 | Chile | Lightly herbal strawberry and raspberry aromas are authentic and fresh. On the palate, this is light and juicy, with snappy, lean flavors of red fruit and dry spice. The finish is dry and oaky. | Reserve | 85 | 13.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Tres Palacios 2011 Reserve Pinot Noir (Maipo Valley) | Pinot Noir | Tres Palacios | |||
| 59 | US | Aromas of cranberry, barrel spice and herb are followed by tart cranberry flavors with grainy tannins. It falls a bit flat and the variety seems hard to discern. | 86 | 55.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Mellisoni 2014 Malbec (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Malbec | Mellisoni | ||
| 60 | US | Syrupy and dense, this wine is jammy in plum and vanilla, with indeterminate structure and plenty of oak. Ripe and full-bodied, it has accents of graphite and leather. | Estate | 86 | 100.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Okapi 2013 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Okapi | |
| 61 | Italy | This densely hued wine has aromas of black plum and vanilla that carry over to the simple palate along with a touch of cedar. Pliant tannins give it an easygoing nature. Drink soon. | Prugneto | 86 | 17.0 | Central Italy | Romagna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Podere dal Nespoli 2015 Prugneto Sangiovese (Romagna) | Sangiovese | Podere dal Nespoli | ||
| 62 | US | The aromas are brooding, with notes of barrel spice and cherry. The flavors are tart and elegant in style, with lightly gritty tannins backing them up. Best suited to the dinner table. | Alder Ridge Vineyard | 86 | 25.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Ram 2014 Alder Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Franc (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Franc | Ram | |
| 63 | France | This fat, yeasty Champagne is comprised predominantly of Pinot Noir. It has ripe red berry fruit, light acidity and a soft, creamy aftertaste. It's ready to drink. | Brut Rosé | 86 | 58.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Roland Champion NV Brut Rosé (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Roland Champion | ||
| 64 | US | There are intriguing touches to the nose of this bottling, with jasmine, sea salt, wet hay, quinine and rainy sidewalk. The structure on the sip is quite delicate, with golden apple and honey flavors. | Golden Horn | 86 | 26.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Sevtap 2015 Golden Horn Sauvignon Blanc (Santa Ynez Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Sevtap | |
| 65 | France | From the warm 2015 vintage, this is a soft and fruity wine. It's open with broad white fruit flavors, the acidity lighter than usual for Chablis, giving it a particularly ripe character. Drink now. | 86 | 24.0 | Burgundy | Chablis | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Simonnet-Febvre 2015 Chablis | Chardonnay | Simonnet-Febvre | |||
| 66 | France | This soft, rounded wine is ripe with generous pear and melon flavors. It's easy and ready to drink young for its smooth, attractively ripe character. | 86 | 15.0 | Burgundy | Mâcon-Milly Lamartine | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Vignerons des Terres Secrètes 2015 Mâcon-Milly Lamartine | Chardonnay | Vignerons des Terres Secrètes | |||
| 67 | US | A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine brings disjointed lightly volatile aromas of wood spice, vanilla and cherry. The plump cherry flavors are rounded out by woody barrel notes. | Inspired | 86 | 46.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Basel Cellars 2013 Inspired Red (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Basel Cellars | |
| 68 | US | Very deep in color and spicy-smoky in flavor, this full-bodied wine is packed with dark-fruit flavors like blackberry and blueberry. Aromas like grilled beef and spicy flavors like cardamom and smoke give it a bold character that's hard to deny. | 86 | 12.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Cocobon 2014 Red (California) | Red Blend | Cocobon | ||
| 69 | France | This cooperative, based in Aÿ, has benefited from the fine Pinot Noir in the village to produce a ripe red fruited wine. With balanced acidity and a soft aftertaste, it is ready to drink. | Brut Rosé | 86 | 55.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Collet NV Brut Rosé (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Collet | ||
| 70 | US | Aromas of vanilla, char and toast lead to light creamy stone fruit and canned-corn flavors. It provides appeal but the oak seems overweighted. | 86 | 12.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Drumheller 2014 Chardonnay (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Chardonnay | Drumheller | ||
| 71 | US | Big oak defines this robustly dense and extracted red, swimming in vanilla and cherry flavor. Full-bodied and gravelly in texture, it's a rustically pleasant wine for pizza nights and crowds. | Old Vine | 86 | 40.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Eco Terreno 2013 Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Eco Terreno | |
| 72 | Italy | Aromas of black-skinned fruit, leather, underbrush, game and a briny note all carry over to the lean, somewhat disjointed palate along with suggestions of licorice and raw red cherry. Grainy tannins leave a drying finish. | Daginestra | 86 | 32.0 | Southern Italy | Aglianico del Vulture | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Grifalco 2013 Daginestra (Aglianico del Vulture) | Aglianico | Grifalco | ||
| 73 | US | Juicy plum, raspberry and pencil lead lead the way in this vineyard designate, a site that's 2,000 feet high. Tobacco and cedar meet a full-bodied hit of oak and puckering tannin, the wine still youthfully wrapped in its full-bodied boldness. | Bella Vetta Vineyard | 86 | 75.0 | California | Howell Mountain | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Hindsight 2013 Bella Vetta Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Hindsight | |
| 74 | US | This is the producer's first release of this wine. Fruity aromas of plum and tart cranberry add to its overall sense of lightness and understatement. | Estate Grown | 86 | 55.0 | California | Calistoga | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Hindsight 2012 Estate Grown Petite Sirah (Calistoga) | Petite Sirah | Hindsight | |
| 75 | US | This is made from equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot, with small additions of Malbec. Juicy, it reveals a raisiny quality of ripeness around integrated oak and generous tannin. | The Cypher | 86 | 75.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Mulvane Wine Co. 2013 The Cypher Red (Napa Valley) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Mulvane Wine Co. | |
| 76 | Germany | Earthy pollen and mineral notes lend a savory tone to this medium-sweet Riesling. It's soft and slightly pulpy, intensified by overripe tangerine and stone fruit flavors. Drink now through 2018. | 86 | 9.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Schmitt Söhne 2015 Riesling (Rheinhessen) | Riesling | Schmitt Söhne | |||||
| 77 | Australia | This medium-bodied Chardonnay features aromas of pineapple and roasted cashew. Similar notes of ripe pineapple and nuts mark the palate, then ease to a rather soft, easy finish. Drink now. | Made With Organic Grapes | 86 | 18.0 | South Australia | South Australia | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Yalumba 2016 Made With Organic Grapes Chardonnay (South Australia) | Chardonnay | Yalumba | ||
| 78 | US | Some rosés are made simply by bleeding the juice from the fermenter, to concentrate the remaining wine. Whether or not that is the case here, the wine has the simple pleasant lightly candied strawberry flavors one might expect from such a technique. It's fruity and undemanding. Drink up. | Rosé of | 86 | 25.0 | Oregon | Eola-Amity Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Z'IVO 2015 Rosé of Pinot Noir (Eola-Amity Hills) | Pinot Noir | Z'IVO | |
| 79 | Portugal | Grown on the sandy soil of Tejo, the wine is typically soft and open. It is very accessible—with black fruits and light tannins for this grape. It is ready to drink. | Bridão | 86 | Tejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Adega Cooperativa do Cartaxo 2014 Bridão Touriga Nacional (Tejo) | Touriga Nacional | Adega Cooperativa do Cartaxo | ||||
| 80 | Chile | Caramelized oak and vanilla aromas are front and center on a barrel-heavy nose. This feels a bit choppy, with astringent tannins. Herbal salty plum flavors wear a lot of oaky makeup, while this finishes with a forced woody flavor. | Special Release Reserva | 86 | 12.0 | Rapel Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Aresti 2014 Special Release Reserva Carmenère (Rapel Valley) | Carmenère | Aresti | |||
| 81 | Spain | Bland, mature aromas of white fruits are on the weak side for Albariño. This feels round and oily, while briny leesy flavors lack pop and precision. A grabby aged finish is short on the free flow that this grape and region are known for. Drink immediately or wait for a newer vintage. | 86 | 16.0 | Galicia | Rías Baixas | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Spyro 2014 Albariño (Rías Baixas) | Albariño | Spyro | |||
| 82 | France | This fruity, sweet wine is immediately attractive and ripe. With its great apricot and pineapple fruit, hints of spicy wood and balancing acidity, it's perfect as an apéritif—light and refreshing. Drink now. | La Réserve | 86 | 11.0 | France Other | Vin de France | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Lionel Osmin & Cie 2016 La Réserve Petit Manseng (Vin de France) | Petit Manseng | Lionel Osmin & Cie | ||
| 83 | Australia | Pale copper in hue, this wine exudes passion fruit on the nose, while the palate delivers nuances of muskmelon as well. It's crisp, racy and medium in body, perfectly suited to summertime refreshment. Drink now. | Jester Sangiovese | 86 | 20.0 | South Australia | McLaren Vale | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Mitolo 2016 Jester Sangiovese Rosé (McLaren Vale) | Rosé | Mitolo | ||
| 84 | US | A healthy addition of 13% Petite Sirah provides added weight and intensity to this wine, a soft, supple and richly conceived combination of smoky black fruit and mocha. | Classic | 86 | 24.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Napa Cellars 2014 Classic Zinfandel (Napa Valley) | Zinfandel | Napa Cellars | |
| 85 | Germany | Pronounced dust, pollen and earth tones lend savoriness to this otherwise citrusy wine. Racy acidity and fresh tangerine and lemon flavors turn herbal on the finish. Drink now. | Undone Dry | 86 | 10.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | P.J. Valckenberg 2015 Undone Dry Riesling (Rheinhessen) | Riesling | P.J. Valckenberg | ||||
| 86 | US | Vibrant aromas of ripe pear, white flowers and melon are followed by a just off-dry palate, with lean fruit flavors. | 86 | 20.0 | Washington | Ancient Lakes | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Palencia 2016 Albariño (Ancient Lakes) | Albariño | Palencia | ||
| 87 | US | Softened tannins surround a light-bodied, lean and herbal approach to this vineyard-designate, dotted in black pepper, leather and baked cherry. | Blau Vineyards | 86 | 55.0 | California | Knights Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Passaggio 2014 Blau Vineyards Merlot (Knights Valley) | Merlot | Passaggio | |
| 88 | Italy | Subdued aromas of French oak, toast and acacia waft out of the glass. The rather lean palate offers oak-driven spice, chopped herb and a hint of citrus set against racy acidity. It's rather shy on fruit richness. | Le Mandorle Riserva | 86 | 29.0 | Tuscany | Vernaccia di San Gimignano | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Poggio Alloro 2014 Le Mandorle Riserva (Vernaccia di San Gimignano) | Vernaccia | Poggio Alloro | ||
| 89 | Italy | Made primarily from Sangiovese, with some Malvasia and other white grapes, this offers aromas of red berry and a yeasty whiff of bread dough. The bright, enjoyable palate offers ripe cherry and hint of pastry cream while a note of honeydew melon marks the close. | 88 | 19.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Fattoria Sardi 2015 Rosato (Toscana) | Rosato | Fattoria Sardi | |||
| 90 | US | This blend of Sangiovese, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and other varieties plays well to type. It shows a wealth of ripe, dusty black fruit that's richly round and soft on the palate, approachable and lightly oaked. | Siena | 88 | 23.0 | California | Sonoma County | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Ferrari-Carano 2014 Siena Red (Sonoma County) | Red Blend | Ferrari-Carano | |
| 91 | US | This wine has a touch of perceptible sweetness on its tropical nose, yet tastes dry, showing a straightforward approach to this crisp, coastal-grown variety. Apricot, melon and guava wrap around a lightness of body and texture. | 88 | 18.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Folie à Deux 2015 Pinot Gris (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Gris | Folie à Deux | ||
| 92 | US | All red Bordeaux varieties are represented in this blend, except for Petit Verdot. Together, they offer a simple tannic structure that strengthens a chewiness of leather, tobacco and a touch of cedar. Full bodied, it's a ripe, bold and brawny wine. | Magnificat | 88 | 55.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Franciscan 2013 Magnificat Meritage (Napa Valley) | Meritage | Franciscan | |
| 93 | Austria | Freshness characterizes the nose: green pear, ivy leaves and citrus notes play on nose and palate. This is light footed, easy drinking and charming. Drink soon while flavors are fresh. | 88 | 12.0 | Burgenland | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Fuchs 2015 Grüner Veltliner (Burgenland) | Grüner Veltliner | Fuchs | ||||
| 94 | US | Barrel notes are prominent, with aromas of Creamsicle and baking spice. The palate is broad and dry with stone-fruit and barrel flavors. It provides intrigue but the wood seems to get in the way at times. | Grand Klasse Reserve Lawrence Vineyards | 88 | 22.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Gård 2014 Grand Klasse Reserve Lawrence Vineyards Viognier (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Viognier | Gård | |
| 95 | France | This is a dense wine, packed with both tannins and acidity. It brings out the ageworthiness of this appellation with its rich potential and dark mineral texture. Drink this concentrated cru wine from 2018. | 88 | 20.0 | Beaujolais | Juliénas | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henry Fessy 2015 Juliénas | Gamay | Henry Fessy | |||
| 96 | France | The wine comes from one of the cru estates followed by this negociant house. It is a light, ripe and fruity wine. With its attractive red-berry flavors, finished with crisp acidity, it is accessible and ready to drink. | 88 | 18.0 | Beaujolais | Régnié | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henry Fessy 2015 Régnié | Gamay | Henry Fessy | |||
| 97 | US | A wisp of bramble extends a savory tone from nose to finish on this otherwise bright bristling wine. Delicate honey tones register as off dry on the palate but balance neatly alongside flavors of freshly pressed apples and pears. The finish is marked by a touch of pencil lead. Drink now through 2020. | Ingle Vineyard | 88 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Heron Hill 2015 Ingle Vineyard Riesling (Finger Lakes) | Riesling | Heron Hill | ||
| 98 | Italy | Forest floor, menthol, espresso, cranberry and pressed violet aromas take shape in the glass. The lean linear palate shows dried sour cherry, licorice and coffee bean alongside assertive close-grained tannins. Even though the tannins are still firm, drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit. | Dono Riserva | 88 | 30.0 | Tuscany | Morellino di Scansano | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Serpaia di Endrizzi 2010 Dono Riserva (Morellino di Scansano) | Sangiovese | Serpaia di Endrizzi | ||
| 99 | US | This blends 20% each of all five red-Bordeaux varieties, showing grapy, plummy flavor that's juicy and soft on the palate. With a core of tobacco, tar and graphite, it complements the fruity with the savory, ending simply and elegantly. | Intreccio Library Selection | 88 | 75.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Soquel Vineyards 2013 Intreccio Library Selection Red (Napa Valley) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Soquel Vineyards | |
| 100 | US | Fresh apple, lemon and pear flavors are accented by a hint of smoked nuts in this bold, full-bodied Pinot Gris. Rich and a bit creamy in mouthfeel yet balanced briskly, it's a satisfying white with wide pairing appeal. Drink now through 2019. | 88 | 18.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Ventosa 2015 Pinot Gris (Finger Lakes) | Pinot Gris | Ventosa | |||
| 101 | US | Dusty mineral, smoke and struck flint lend a savory tone to this lean light-bodied Riesling. Off dry in style, the palate offers delicately concentrated flavors of red apple and nectarine off set by tangerine acidity. Drink now through 2021. | Red Oak Vineyard | 87 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Lamoreaux Landing 2014 Red Oak Vineyard Riesling (Finger Lakes) | Riesling | Lamoreaux Landing | ||
| 102 | US | Intensely smoky tones of struck flint and ash extend throughout this otherwise bright nimble Riesling. The palate boasts freshly pressed apple and pear flavors accentuated by zippy lemon-lime acidity. Drink now through 2021. | Yellow Dog Vineyard | 87 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Lamoreaux Landing 2014 Yellow Dog Vineyard Riesling (Finger Lakes) | Riesling | Lamoreaux Landing | ||
| 103 | Chile | A bright nose with green apple and citric aromas comes with mild oak. This is acidic and racy in composition, with roundness along the edges of the palate. Apple and nectarine flavors are lightly oaked and salty, while this holds form on a high-acid finish. | Single Vineyard Falaris Hill | 87 | 18.0 | Leyda Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Leyda 2015 Single Vineyard Falaris Hill Chardonnay (Leyda Valley) | Chardonnay | Leyda | |||
| 104 | Italy | Made with 65% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, this has subtle aromas of black-skinned fruit and thyme. The easygoing palate delivers black cherry and cinnamon alongside smooth tannins. | Nativo | 87 | 16.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Madonna Alta 2014 Nativo Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Madonna Alta | ||
| 105 | Italy | Made predominantly with Trebbiano and Malvasia, along with Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio and Riesling Renano, this has inviting aromas of ripe orchard fruit and citrus. The round fruity palate doles out ripe apricot, orange zest and juicy pineapple. | Villa Antinori | 87 | 14.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Marchesi Antinori 2015 Villa Antinori White (Toscana) | White Blend | Marchesi Antinori | ||
| 106 | Italy | A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese, this pleasant red has aromas of dark-skinned fruit, toast and a whiff of espresso. The light-bodied, straightforward palate offers cherry, red currant and a hint of light spice alongside zesty acidity and polished tannins. | Castiglioni | 87 | 30.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Marchesi de' Frescobaldi 2014 Castiglioni Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Marchesi de' Frescobaldi | ||
| 107 | Italy | Aromas of yellow stone fruit, white spring flower and a whiff of citrus lift out of the glass. The soft round palate offers ripe apricot, yellow peach and a hint of candied nectarine zest. | Ammiraglia Massovivo | 87 | 18.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Marchesi de' Frescobaldi 2015 Ammiraglia Massovivo Vermentino (Toscana) | Vermentino | Marchesi de' Frescobaldi | ||
| 108 | US | Lots of spearmint, coyote mint, hot licorice, ginger snaps and Dr Pepper spice up the strawberry fruit of this wine that provides a very herbal take on the grape. Oregano, marjoram, thyme and dill all make a showing on the sip, against a backbone of sweet cherry and blackberry fruit, finishing on cedar. | J.D. Hurley | 87 | 26.0 | California | Santa Clara Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Martin Ranch 2014 J.D. Hurley Zinfandel (Santa Clara Valley) | Zinfandel | Martin Ranch | |
| 109 | Italy | An easy-drinking blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, this opens with aromas of red berry, toast, herb and roasted coffee bean. The soft palate offers black cherry, mocha and a hint of coffee alongside bright acidity and silky tannins. Drink now. | Le Volte | 87 | 30.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Ornellaia 2014 Le Volte Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Ornellaia | ||
| 110 | France | Produced from cru vines at the base of Mount Brouilly, the wine has structure as well as ripe black-plum fruits. It is generous and its fruit is well balanced by acidity and solid tannins. The wines is ready to drink. | Les Quartelets | 87 | 23.0 | Beaujolais | Brouilly | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Pardon et Fils 2015 Les Quartelets (Brouilly) | Gamay | Pardon et Fils | ||
| 111 | US | This 100% varietal wine opens in a heady aroma of leather pouch, clove and marshmallow. Both herbaceous and tannic, it begs for more time in the bottle or substantial swirling in the glass. | Wolff Vineyard | 87 | 85.0 | California | Yountville | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Piña 2013 Wolff Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Yountville) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Piña | |
| 112 | Italy | Made with 90% Merlot and 10% Alicante, this easygoing red opens with delicate aromas suggesting red currant and baking spice. The straightforward palate delivers red plum and clove alongside soft tannins. Enjoy soon. | Semifonte | 87 | 15.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Podere Ciona 2014 Semifonte Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Podere Ciona | ||
| 113 | Italy | Made with Vermentino, Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Petit Manseng, this easy-drinking white has aromas of fragrant white wild flower, citrus and white stone fruit. The ripe round palate offers apricot, lime and a hint of saline. | Poetico | 87 | 19.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Poggioventoso 2015 Poetico White (Toscana) | White Blend | Poggioventoso | ||
| 114 | US | Tar, dried meat, olallieberry and sharp cedar aromas show on this blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Merlot. Dried strawberries and plums mix with thyme and dried rose petals on the palate. | BDX | 87 | 18.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Pull 2012 BDX Red (Paso Robles) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Pull | |
| 115 | US | Poached pears, yellow apples and a touch of butter show on the classic nose of this Chardonnay that holds to steely frame. Very sharp acidity kicks off the sip, where Pink Lady apples and warm vanilla surround a tight minerality. It's both sharp and slightly sweet. | 87 | 18.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Pull 2013 Chardonnay (Paso Robles) | Chardonnay | Pull | ||
| 116 | US | The distinctive nose on this bottling is tight yet tropical, with mango, pineapple, pear skins, orange rinds, dried lime peels and a gin-like juniper all converging. The palate offers a balance between tightly woven texture and ripe tropicality, with lime rinds, mango and petrol touches. | Camp 4 Vineyard | 87 | 25.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | R2 2013 Camp 4 Vineyard Grenache Blanc (Santa Ynez Valley) | Grenache Blanc | R2 | |
| 117 | US | Baked red cherry, crushed clove, iron and rose petals make for standard aromas on this bottling, although they are fairly light and simple here. There is a sizzle of acitity on the palate, where juicy strawberry and olallieberry flavors are easy to enjoy, made more complex by graphite and cedar touches. | Estate | 87 | 44.0 | California | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Rideau 2014 Estate Syrah | Syrah | Rideau | ||
| 118 | Italy | A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Sangiovese, this offers aromas of black currant, caramel and mocha. The dense palate delivers toast, leather and cedar alongside teeth-coating tannins that grip the finish. | Toscano | 87 | 80.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tenuta Forconi 2013 Toscano Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Tenuta Forconi | ||
| 119 | France | Medium-gold in color. Complex and inviting nose layered with a strong earthy minerality, vibrant bright fruit and intriguing notes of petrol and honey. On the palate it is racy, taut and focused full of well defined ripe succulent citrus and stone fruit. Rich, viscous texture perfectly balanced by the wine's crispness and almost steely minerality. Very long, juicy, lingering finish. | Schoenenbourg Grand Cru Vendanges Tardives | 92 | 80.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Dopff & Irion 2004 Schoenenbourg Grand Cru Vendanges Tardives Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Dopff & Irion | ||||
| 120 | Italy | Slightly backward, particularly given the vintage, the wine has a complex nose with plenty of dark fruit, Turkish delight, smoked meat and earth. A full rich palate, slightly soft, it begins to run out of steam a little in mid palate, but returns with a flourish, and the finish is long and nuanced. Will repay 5+ years of cellaring. | Bricco Rocche Prapó | 92 | 70.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Ceretto 2003 Bricco Rocche Prapó (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Ceretto | ||||
| 121 | US | The vineyard is one of the better Chardonnay sources in Alexander Valley, and in this fine vintage it lends ripe pineapple, pear, Key lime pie and Mandarin orange flavors to the wine. Lots of toasty new oak adds buttered toast and vanilla, but the wood influence is in balance. Classic Burgundian-style California Chardonnay, rich and opulent. | Stuhlmuller Vineyard | 92 | 36.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Matrix 2007 Stuhlmuller Vineyard Chardonnay (Alexander Valley) | Chardonnay | Matrix | |||
| 122 | US | Defines Rockpile Zinfandel in intensity of fruit and high alcohol which is in keeping with the volume. There are few red wines in the world like this. It's fully dry, with potent flavors of baked blackberries, blackcurrants, cola and peppery spices, and the tannins are huge, but negotiable. Demands the richest grilled meats and cheeses. | Rockpile Cemetary Vineyard | 92 | 39.0 | California | Rockpile | Sonoma | Mauritson 2007 Rockpile Cemetary Vineyard Zinfandel (Rockpile) | Zinfandel | Mauritson | |||
| 123 | Australia | The blend is roughly two-thirds Shiraz and one-third Cabernet, and the result combines berries with cassis and generosity with structure, all framed by toasty oak. Savory in character, long and dusty on the finish. Drink now-2018. | Parson's Flat | 92 | 40.0 | South Australia | Padthaway | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Henry's Drive Vignerons 2006 Parson's Flat Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon (Padthaway) | Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon | Henry's Drive Vignerons | ||
| 124 | US | This sophisticated wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, which accounts for the firm tannins and dense structure as well as most of the blackberries and blackcurrants. Smaller amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc add cherries and violets, while oak contributes smoky complexities. Rich and elegant, the wine provides lovely drinking now. | 92 | 45.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Silverado 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Silverado | ||||
| 125 | South Africa | Etienne Le Riche is a total Cabernet specialist. With a tiny production of 5,000 cases across all his wines, this is boutique in the best sense. The Reserve Cabernets are, of course, the stars. This 2003 is fruit and wood driven, a powerful but still elegant wine, with black plums, tannins and super-ripe fruits. | Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve | 91 | 45.0 | Stellenbosch | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Le Riche 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Stellenbosch) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Le Riche | |||
| 126 | France | Mid-gold color. Pronounced and enticing aromas of ripe citrus and stone fruit, layered with honey and floral notes with a touch of sweet spice. Rich and creamy texture packed with sweet ripe juicy fruit, honey, spice and a twist of sage. Off-dry, deliciously smooth with fresh acidity and medium-body. An elegant wine with a long, creamy, spicy finish. | Vendages Tardives | 91 | 48.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Pierre Sparr 2007 Vendages Tardives Gewurztraminer (Alsace) | Gewürztraminer | Pierre Sparr | ||||
| 127 | France | Attractive mid-gold color with intense aromas of ripe citrus and stone fruit, strong minerality and hints of spice. Racy with crisp acidity, juicy, rich and smooth texture with lots of concentrated, bright flavors of blood orange, peach, apricot, mango and spice. Strong minerality follows through to a long, precise, juicy finish. | Alsace One | 91 | 13.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Pierre Sparr 2008 Alsace One White (Alsace) | White Blend | Pierre Sparr | ||||
| 128 | France | Compelling minerality on the nose, Refined and focused floral aromas with ample ripe stone fruit and a hint of petrol. Racy acidity and lovely taut palate with generous layers of juicy ripe peach, apricot and nectarine. Strong minerality prevails across the palate leading to a lingering finish. Very balanced. | 91 | 17.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Kuentz-Bas 2008 Pinot Blanc (Alsace) | Pinot Blanc | Kuentz-Bas | |||||
| 129 | South Africa | A big, black bruiser of a wine that has black olive flavors and aromas and plenty beyond. Raspberry, mulberry, vanilla and spice all vie on the nose, while the palate is so dark it´s tough to discern the plum and leather flavors. Give it three years and reap the benefits. | Philosophers' Stone | 91 | 25.0 | Stellenbosch | Camberley 2004 Philosophers' Stone Red (Stellenbosch) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Camberley | |||||
| 130 | Italy | At the first it was quite muted and subdued, but over a ten minute period it developed beautifully in the glass. The dark fruit is still dominant, but it is beginning to show some interesting tertiary aromas of earth, mushrooms and leather. Well balanced with a medium finish. Needs a few more years, but can be enjoyed now with a good deal of pleasure. | Bricco Rocche Brunate | 91 | 70.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Ceretto 2003 Bricco Rocche Brunate (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Ceretto | ||||
| 131 | France | Attractive mid-gold color. Compelling layers of tangy citrus and stone fruit aromas with notes of honey and earthy minerality. Intense flavors of honey, tangy orange citrus, sweet peach and apricot that are both rich and juicy. Crisp acidity provides a perfect balance for the slight sweetness on the finish. Taut and focused. | Gentil | 91 | 20.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Dopff & Irion 2008 Gentil White (Alsace) | Alsace white blend | Dopff & Irion | ||||
| 132 | South Africa | A Cabernet-dominated (98%) wine, which boasts a dense, concentrated tannic structure. Flavors of cassis underly this, while the wood spices contribute their ribbon of flavor. This is an impressive wine, the flagship red from this estate founded by Spatz Sperling over 30 years ago. | Grand Reserve | 91 | 30.0 | Simonsberg-Stellenbosch | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Delheim 2001 Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Simonsberg-Stellenbosch) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Delheim | |||
| 133 | Italy | Einaudi's wines have been improving lately, and this Barolo was very impressive, given the trying conditions of the vintage. Big rich, fat with smoked meat and a good dose of oak, the wine was one of the few that didn't peter out early but stayed on the palate to the end, culminating in an nice easy finish. | 91 | 68.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Poderi Luigi Einaudi 2003 Barolo | Nebbiolo | Poderi Luigi Einaudi | |||||
| 134 | US | Give this young Cab time in the cellar to come around. Right now, it's fresh and tannic, with primary fruit blackberry and cherry flavors, and the sweet smoky oak hasn't been integrated. Should knit together over the next 4-6 years, at least. | 91 | 78.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Clark-Clauden 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Clark-Clauden | ||||
| 135 | Italy | The color is just beginning to show signs of browning at the edge, but the wine is still fresh and vibrant. The nose is complex, showing licorice, summer fruits, caramel and roses. On the palate, it is soft and pleasant, but lacks some concentration. At its peak, but will drink well for a few years. | Sorano | 91 | 60.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Giacomo Ascheri 2001 Sorano (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Giacomo Ascheri | ||||
| 136 | France | This wine's black cherry and plum flavors veer dangerously toward prune—no doubt a product of the exceedingly hot summer. It's creamy and supple in texture, adding just enough tobacco, vanilla and smoke for complexity. But for all the fruit and ripeness, it finishes with great elegance and precision. Drink now–2020. Imported by Acadia Imports. | 91 | 50.0 | Bordeaux | Saint-Émilion | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Lassègue 2003 Saint-Émilion | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Lassègue | |||
| 137 | South Africa | This is great Chenin Blanc, wood fermented but still leaving all the varietal character. Rich, creamy, almond flavors and silky smooth, which keeps all the essential acidity of the grape, with added spice and vanilla. | Hope Marguerite | 90 | Walker Bay | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Beaumont 2005 Hope Marguerite Chenin Blanc (Walker Bay) | Chenin Blanc | Beaumont | ||||
| 138 | France | Mid-gold color. Very mineral driven with subtle aromas of bruised apple and stone fruit compote. Crisp, fairly taut palate showing strong minerality and ripe flavors of red apple, cantaloupe, sweet nectarine and spice. Taut and precise texture with a long, slightly austere finish. | Crustacés | 90 | 10.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Dopff & Irion 2008 Crustacés White (Alsace) | Alsace white blend | Dopff & Irion | ||||
| 139 | France | Beautiful deep gold color. Intense, concentrated nose with vibrant aromas of honey, citrus marmalade and savory botrytis notes. Deliciously sweet and succulent, yet balanced by good acidity. Packed with flavors of sweet ultra-ripe stone and tropical fruit, with honey and botrytis notes following through. Strong minerality prevails to a long, complex finish. | Cuvée Jerémy Sélection de Grains Nobles | 90 | 112.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Kuentz-Bas 2007 Cuvée Jerémy Sélection de Grains Nobles Pinot Gris (Alsace) | Pinot Gris | Kuentz-Bas | ||||
| 140 | Italy | A big, fat, luscious wine with plenty of toasty oak, dark jammy fruit and spices. The palate showed the same lushness; with the fruit front and center with surprising length. A delicious, rather hefty effort short on finesse but long on flavor. | Costa Bruna | 90 | 26.0 | Piedmont | Barbera d'Alba | Poderi Colla 2005 Costa Bruna (Barbera d'Alba) | Barbera | Poderi Colla | ||||
| 141 | Italy | This is one of the more complex wines from the 2003 vintage. The nose has aromas of blackberry liquer, smoked meat, truffle and road tar. On the palate the fruit seems a little heavier and more roasted, but still melds well with its earthy, mushroomy flavors. Medium finish. | Vigna dei Pola | 90 | 45.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Giacomo Ascheri 2003 Vigna dei Pola (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Giacomo Ascheri | ||||
| 142 | US | A beautiful wine, sleek, crisp and ultra-dry, with the most refined flavors of petrol, white peach, kaffir lime, apricot skin and minerals. The acidity is very high and palate-cleansing. The wine was half fermented in barrels, half in stainless steel. Sommeliers, buy this by the case, if you can find it. | 90 | 17.0 | California | Santa Lucia Highlands | Central Coast | Banyan 2007 Riesling (Santa Lucia Highlands) | Riesling | Banyan | ||||
| 143 | France | Rich gold in color. Broad, layered aromas of very ripe fruit with hints of sweet smoke, brown sugar, honey and a savory earthy minerality. Full-bodied, bone dry, but richly textured with crisp acidity and a wide palette of flavors, ripe stone fruit, a creamy savory earthiness, sage and a balsamic kick on the finish. Very long length, slightly warm but with a lingering savory, mineral finish. | Hunawihr Clos Windsbuhl | 90 | 84.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Domaine Zind-Humbrecht 2007 Hunawihr Clos Windsbuhl Pinot Gris (Alsace) | Pinot Gris | Domaine Zind-Humbrecht | ||||
| 144 | US | Thick and brooding, this dark, sweetly tannic wine also offers higher-toned elements of cedar, dried herb and graphite. It finds its balance amid a full-bodied density of fruit concentration and girth of structure. Drink now through 2023. | K Block | 91 | 85.0 | California | Spring Mountain District | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Terra Valentine 2013 K Block Cabernet Sauvignon (Spring Mountain District) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Terra Valentine | |
| 145 | US | Cooked cranberry is spiced with anise, peppercorn and roasted beef slices on this bottling from a vineyard planted by three brothers who are longtime Salinas Valley farmers. The palate shows dark cranberry and raspberry, spiced up by chopped sage, thyme and bay leaf. | Guidotti Vineyard | 91 | 64.0 | California | Santa Lucia Highlands | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Testarossa 2013 Guidotti Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) | Pinot Noir | Testarossa | |
| 146 | US | There's a touch of hot asphalt, pencil lead and miso on the nose of this first vintage from a promising, well-funded project, with dark elderberry fruit and dried dill rounding out the aromas. The palate blends a gamy beef quality with oregano, marjoram, cooked strawberry, baked blackberry and a sesame-oil character. | Family Reserve | 91 | 68.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Vincent Vineyards 2010 Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Santa Ynez Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Vincent Vineyards | |
| 147 | US | Black cherry, black plum and black currant are integrated well into the fresh dill and smoke scents on the nose of this wine from one of the region's newest properties. It discloses a rich dark-chocolate sauce character on the palate as well as black-currant-jelly flavors, but most impressive is the lush, sexy and soft mouthfeel. | Family Reserve | 91 | 68.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Vincent Vineyards 2012 Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Santa Ynez Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Vincent Vineyards | |
| 148 | Germany | Crisp, pristine peach and apricot notes resonate through the nose and palate of this fresh, blossomy dry Riesling. While zesty and lithe in body, ripe grapefruit and melon flavors feel supple and silky on the palate. Drink now through 2019. | Dry | 91 | 16.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Weingut Liebfrauenstift 2014 Dry Riesling (Rheinhessen) | Riesling | Weingut Liebfrauenstift | ||||
| 149 | US | Smashed blackberry and blueberry fruit are enhanced by burned caramel, heavy slate and touches of soy and smoke on the nose. There's great depth in both body and flavors once sipped, with a layer of fine-grained tannins revealing teriyaki, black plum, boysenberry and touches of lavender. | Destruction Level | 91 | 35.0 | California | Monterey | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Wrath 2013 Destruction Level Red (Monterey) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Wrath | |
| 150 | US | This wine shows off Yountville fruit at its finest, starting with a floral component to the nose. Spicy, bright and lifted, it coats the palate in ripe berry and cherry, ending with a snap of vanilla. | Ruth's Reach | 91 | 25.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Yardstick 2013 Ruth's Reach Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Yardstick | |
| 151 | Portugal | This bottling shows a rich, wood-aged wine, full of ripe yellow and tropical fruits as well as rich toasty flavors. The wine is warm, rounded, spicy and with its impressive structure still developing, it has the potential to age well. The wine is named to celebrate the second Lança generation in charge at the estate. Drink from 2017. | Gerações Colheita Seleccionada Branco | 91 | 30.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Herdade Grande 2014 Gerações Colheita Seleccionada Branco White (Alentejano) | Portuguese White | Herdade Grande | |||
| 152 | US | From a promising new project, the nose of this wine is linear and focused, with black raspberry, black licorice, cola, wet sagebrush and rain-on-slate scents. The tactile acidity once sipped creates a fascinating soft buzz on the tongue, with flavors of dried mint, brisk raspberry and cherry tomato. Camphor and eucalyptus add intrigue on the finish. | Estate Reserve | 91 | 55.0 | California | Carmel Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Albatross Ridge 2012 Estate Reserve Pinot Noir (Carmel Valley) | Pinot Noir | Albatross Ridge | |
| 153 | US | Dark and thick in the glass, this wine shows strong but not bitter tar notes on the nose plus charred beef in a blueberry glaze, wet campfire, bourbon barrel and vanilla. The structure is massive now, gooey with thick tannins and flavors of espresso bean and condensed purple flowers. Judicious acidity ensures strong cellaring potential. Drink 2018–2027. | Old 900 | 91 | 46.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Alta Colina 2012 Old 900 Syrah (Paso Robles) | Syrah | Alta Colina | |
| 154 | Spain | Ripe aromas of raisin, black plum and horsehide are pointy and peppery. On the palate, this Graciano is bold and energetic, with lifting acidity. Loud berry flavors come with strong accents of dark chocolate and bitter espresso, while the finish is long but just moderate in complexity. Drink through 2020. | Single Vineyard Estate Bottled | 91 | 50.0 | Central Spain | Dominio de Valdepusa | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Marques de Griñon 2010 Single Vineyard Estate Bottled Graciano (Dominio de Valdepusa) | Graciano | Marques de Griñon | ||
| 155 | US | Bradley Brown's appellation blend is a nice entry point to this exciting winery. This wine shows lavish smoked black currant and plum flavors, with aromatically lifting spices of anise and black pepper and a savory roast-beef element. The palate packs lots of pepper and relies on plump black cherry, boysenberry and a dark-chocolate syrup richness. | 91 | 36.0 | California | Santa Cruz Mountains | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Big Basin 2013 Syrah (Santa Cruz Mountains) | Syrah | Big Basin | ||
| 156 | Germany | Approachably fruity yet nuanced and electrifying, there's exceptional value here. High-intensity flavors of tangerine and stone fruit sweeten the palate, balanced by nerve-tingling acidity and deep ripples of slate, salt and honeycomb. It's an intensely zesty wine, but the finish has length and power. | Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese | 91 | 14.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Carl Graff 2014 Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Carl Graff | ||||
| 157 | Portugal | From an estate in the south of the Alentejo, this is a rich, hot-country wine. It is firm, densely structured and with solid, dark tannins. There is a juicy black fruit background to this dense wine that gives a lift. Still young, this dark and very concentrated wine will be better from 2018. | Grande Reserva Tinto | 91 | 26.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Casa Santa Vitória 2013 Grande Reserva Tinto Red (Alentejano) | Portuguese Red | Casa Santa Vitória | |||
| 158 | Italy | Baked plum, Asian spice, vanilla and menthol aromas carry the nose. The elegantly structured palate offers fleshy black cherry, licorice, mint and well-integrated French oak alongside fine-grained tannins that lend firm, polished support. A coffee note marks the finish. | Bellezza Gran Selezione | 91 | 38.0 | Tuscany | Chianti Classico | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Castello di Gabbiano 2012 Bellezza Gran Selezione (Chianti Classico) | Sangiovese | Castello di Gabbiano | ||
| 159 | Italy | Intense aromas of ripe red berry, menthol, espresso and star anise lead the nose. The concentrated palate offers cranberry, dried Morello cherry, sage and licorice alongside close-grained tannins that grip the finish. Drink from 2018 through 2025. | Filo di Seta | 91 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Castello Romitorio 2011 Filo di Seta (Brunello di Montalcino) | Sangiovese | Castello Romitorio | |||
| 160 | France | Low-yield vines on the best parcels of the Vincens estate are the source of this wine. It is super-rich and concentrated, maybe too much in its opulent excess. The wine does have great plum and berry flavors that are generous and full in the mouth. The wine even now is still young and will be better from 2018. | 91 | 35.0 | Southwest France | Cahors | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Vincens 2012 Malbec (Cahors) | Malbec | Château Vincens | |||
| 161 | US | A hearty blend of 76% Zinfandel and 24% Petite Sirah, this bottling packs a wallop of cinnamon-stick on the nose as well as strawberry puree, licorice and black pepper. Clove, allspice, and nutmeg arise immediately on the sip, backed by baked plum and bay leaf notes. | Mr. Nibbles | 91 | 35.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Chronic Cellars 2013 Mr. Nibbles Red (Paso Robles) | Red Blend | Chronic Cellars | |
| 162 | US | More complex than the winery's appellation blend, yet also requiring time to reach full potential, this shows delicate lemon slices, honeysuckle, surf wax, pink grapefruit and a touch of coconut on the nose. The palate is grippy in texture and sizzling with mouthwatering acidity, offering lemon rind, grapefruit spritz and petrol flavors. Expect inviting nut and honey-dust flavors to emerge. Drink 2018–2034. | Claiborne Vineyard | 91 | 28.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Claiborne Vineyard Riesling (Edna Valley) | Riesling | Claiborne & Churchill | |
| 163 | France | Produced from vineyards donated to a charitable hospital in the 19th century, this wine is rich and now perfectly mature. It has smoky tannins that lie under the fine, elegant cherry and red plum fruits and acidity. The wine still has freshness although the attraction here is the ripe structure. The ornate label dates back to 1926. | Hospices Civils de Romanèche Thurins | 91 | Beaujolais | Moulin-à-Vent | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Collin-Bourisset 2011 Hospices Civils de Romanèche Thurins (Moulin-à-Vent) | Gamay | Collin-Bourisset | |||
| 164 | Chile | This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot opens with blackened aromas of charred oak and creosote, but it quickly sheds that oak-heavy character to display toasty flavors of olives, herbs and berry fruits. All together, this is a classic Chilean red blend, with fine tannins and patented lightly herbal, balsamic flavors. Drink through 2020. | Condesa Real Premium Blend | 91 | 29.0 | Aconcagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Conde de Velázquez 2012 Condesa Real Premium Blend Red (Aconcagua Valley) | Red Blend | Conde de Velázquez | |||
| 165 | Chile | Dry, briary aromas of field brush, black olive, herbs, berry fruits and saucy tomato are textbook Maipo. This is fresh, a touch choppy, and not overly heavy. Flavors of cassis, plum and vanilla carry over to the finish, which is fresh and bolstered by fine natural acidity. Drink through 2022. | 20 Barrels | 91 | 32.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cono Sur 2012 20 Barrels Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Cono Sur | |||
| 166 | France | Of course, this 90% Tannat wine is still very young. But it's impressive, rich and concentrated and promises to age well. It is dense with both tannins and fruit, black plum and berry flavors dominating, cut by acidity. It will be ready to drink from 2019. | Charles de Batz | 91 | 25.0 | Southwest France | Madiran | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Berthoumieu 2013 Charles de Batz Tannat-Cabernet (Madiran) | Tannat-Cabernet | Domaine Berthoumieu | ||
| 167 | US | The addition of 15% Petite Sirah takes this bottling to a compelling place, showing barely ripe blackberries, animal fat, smoke, black pepper and a wild clove element on the nose. It's rich and layered on the palate, where chalky tannins support black cherry, grilled beef and mint flavors. This has the bones to last awhile. | 91 | 28.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Dracaena 2013 Cabernet Franc (Paso Robles) | Cabernet Franc | Dracaena | ||
| 168 | US | A fairly elegant expression of the variety, this wine is bright in cherry kirsch and pretty aromas of rose petal and lavender, structured to age and enjoy with food. Rector Creek Vineyard is just north of Yountville and planted in rocky alluvial soils. Drink now through 2022. | Rector Creek Vineyard | 91 | 95.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Duckhorn 2012 Rector Creek Vineyard Merlot (Napa Valley) | Merlot | Duckhorn | |
| 169 | US | This wine is put together from multiple vineyard sources, including the well-known Morelli Lane and Widdoes, all farmed by the Duttons. Larger in production than many of the vineyard-designates, it offers baked bread and juicy overtones of cranberry-raspberry layered atop luxuriously toasted oak. It'll show well at the table. | Dutton Ranch | 91 | 44.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Dutton-Goldfield 2014 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Dutton-Goldfield | |
| 170 | Germany | Fresh and fragrant of blossoms, tart yellow peach and apricot, this off-dry Riesling maintains a crystalline fruit purity that persists throughout Fritz Haag's wines. It's invigorating and irresistably quaffable. The long, melon-rind finish is lip smacking. | Brauneberger Feinherb | 91 | 30.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Fritz Haag 2014 Brauneberger Feinherb Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Fritz Haag | ||||
| 171 | Germany | Just a touch of honey-lemon sweetness is enough to make this zesty, citrus-focused Riesling lip smackingly delicious. Fresh, green herb and lime notes reverberate through a strong finish. Drinks well now but should meld nicely over the next five years. | 91 | 22.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Fritz Haag 2014 Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Fritz Haag | |||||
| 172 | Chile | Dry, spicy aromas of tobacco, cedar, vanilla and berry fruits come together nicely. This Maule Valley Cab is fresh and harmonious across the palate, with nothing too pushy. Complex, balsamic flavors of olives, herbs, dried berries, turned earth and cocoa finish dry, peppery and elegant. Drink through 2019. | The 7th Generation Gran Reserva Estate Bottled | 91 | 20.0 | Loncomilla Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | G7 2012 The 7th Generation Gran Reserva Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon (Loncomilla Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | G7 | |||
| 173 | US | This wine is bursting with gorgeous cherry fruit, forward and luscious. The tannins are ripe and the acids in perfect proportion, keeping the fruit flavors buoyed upon a textural ride into a lingering finish. | 91 | 38.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Le Cadeau 2014 Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Le Cadeau | ||
| 174 | New Zealand | The Stoneleigh style traditionally favors ripeness over herbaceousness, and the 2008 holds true to form, offering up grapefruit and nectarine aromas and an appealing blend of citrus and stone-fruit flavors. It's plump and round, yet finishes fresh. Good as an apéritif or with light dishes. | 88 | 19.0 | Marlborough | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Stoneleigh 2008 Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) | Sauvignon Blanc | Stoneleigh | ||||
| 175 | Italy | Crisp and fresh with enduring aromas of tomato leaf, citrus, pink grapefruit and white stone, this is textbook Sauvignon from the mountainous Alto Adige region of Italy. Pair it with appetizers or lightly spicy foods. | De Silva | 88 | 25.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Tenuta Peter Sölva & Söhne 2007 De Silva Sauvignon (Alto Adige) | Sauvignon | Tenuta Peter Sölva & Söhne | ||||
| 176 | Chile | Haven't seen this unusual combination of grapes in quite some time, and you know what, it's much better now than when we last saw it in 2001. This vintage has a nice, almost magnetic nose, while the palate is firm and well structured, with cassis, black cherry, coffee and licorice flavors. It's a bit boring on the finish, but the mouthfeel and length are just fine. Fruity, rich and balanced. 325 cases made. | Unusual Cabernet-Shiraz-Zinfandel | 88 | 50.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | TerraMater 2006 Unusual Cabernet-Shiraz-Zinfandel Red (Maipo Valley) | Red Blend | TerraMater | |||
| 177 | Italy | This Chianti Classico strikes a beautiful balance between elegance and intensity. It has both and its pretty aromas of wild berry, rose, ginger, anise and spice come forth in a continuous, steady manner. It feels bright and lively in the mouth and ends with a touch of piquant spice. | 88 | 22.0 | Tuscany | Chianti Classico | Isole e Olena 2005 Chianti Classico | Sangiovese | Isole e Olena | |||||
| 178 | US | Black as a moonless night, dense in structure, tannic, bone dry and super-peppery, this Syrah isn't offering much relief right now. In all likelihood it will emerge from its cocoon in a few years to offer a wealth of ripe blackberry, currant and carob fruit. | Jack London Vineyard | 88 | 25.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Kenwood 2005 Jack London Vineyard Syrah (Sonoma Valley) | Syrah | Kenwood | |||
| 179 | France | The impact of 50-year old vines is seen in the concentrated fruit, ripe and full, in this wine. The flavors are of fresh apricots, edged with green apples and pink grapefruit, a combination that shows both richness and great freshness. The finish is a reminder of the fine acidity in 2006. | Les Vénérables Vieilles Vignes | 88 | 27.0 | Burgundy | Chablis | Roger Voss | @vossroger | La Chablisienne 2006 Les Vénérables Vieilles Vignes (Chablis) | Chardonnay | La Chablisienne | ||
| 180 | US | This is a strong, oaky Chardonnay. It's crisp in acidity and forward in pineapple jam, lemon custard and vanilla meringue flavors. If you like the ripe, California style, it's for you. | Lucia Highland Vineyard | 88 | 23.0 | California | Santa Lucia Highlands | Central Coast | Manzoni 2006 Lucia Highland Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands) | Chardonnay | Manzoni | |||
| 181 | US | Crisp, coastal acidity dominates this wine, making it mouth-wateringly tart. May be too much for some folks, but it's quite elegant, with good cherry, black raspberry and cola flavors enriched with a touch of smoky oak. | Mission Ranch | 88 | 36.0 | California | Arroyo Seco | Central Coast | McIntyre Vineyards 2006 Mission Ranch Pinot Noir (Arroyo Seco) | Pinot Noir | McIntyre Vineyards | |||
| 182 | Italy | Loaded with bold, ripe fruit, exotic spice and leather, this is a simple but genuine expression of Brunello di Montalcino. The wine tastes thick and a bit chunky in the mouth because of its chewy, succulent tannins. | M. Vigna | 88 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Abbadia Ardenga 2003 M. Vigna (Brunello di Montalcino) | Sangiovese Grosso | Abbadia Ardenga | |||||
| 183 | Argentina | With attractive melon and other tropical aromas, this is a Torrontés that rises above the masses. It smells great and tastes like a pure blend of lychee fruit, tangerine and honeydew melon. The palate feel is smooth and round, and the finish is dry, clean and healthy. It's everything that Torrontés should be. Drink now. | 88 | 12.0 | Other | Salta | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Alamos 2007 Torrontés (Salta) | Torrontés | Alamos | |||
| 184 | US | This is a typical Sonoma Coast Chard in the bright acidity that firms up the ripe, long hangtime flavors. Pineapples, pears, peaches, nectarines and subtle papaya notes are joined with buttercream and cinnamon spices. Drink now. | 88 | 35.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Anaba 2007 Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) | Chardonnay | Anaba | ||||
| 185 | Chile | Composed and structured, with its fair share of richness manifested as raisin and molasses. Interestingly, the palate rings with acidity, resulting in a feel that's borderline sharp. But there's enough fruit and heft to balance things out, and the flavors of cherry, blackberry and cola are nice. A good example of elevated Carmenère (with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon) that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. | Envero Gran Reserva | 88 | 15.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Apaltagua 2007 Envero Gran Reserva Carmenère (Colchagua Valley) | Carmenère | Apaltagua | |||
| 186 | US | This is a very rich Pinot whose primary virtue is fruit. It just explodes with delicious cherry jam, red currant, licorice and mocha flavors. Dry and crisply acidic, it's a beautiful wine for early drinking. | Wiley Vineyard | 88 | 40.0 | California | Anderson Valley | Harrington 2006 Wiley Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley) | Pinot Noir | Harrington | ||||
| 187 | Italy | This is a luminous, mature red wine with thick concentration and huge—almost too much—emphasis on toasted oak. Aromas recall vanilla, spice and coffee, although you will find blueberry and cherry on the finish: It is a blend of Nero d'Avola, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. | Montenero | 88 | 48.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Abbazia Santa Anastasia 2003 Montenero Red (Sicilia) | Red Blend | Abbazia Santa Anastasia | ||||
| 188 | Chile | Bisquertt usually does well with its value-priced Merlots, and seeing that 2007 was an excellent vintage in Chile, this wine excels in the value price range. The nose is dark and saturated, but pure and inviting. And the palate is ripe and smooth, with spice, plum, blackberry and herb notes, particularly anise. Finishes clean, smooth and peppery. Drink now. | Casa La Joya Reserve | 88 | 11.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Viña Bisquertt 2007 Casa La Joya Reserve Merlot (Colchagua Valley) | Merlot | Viña Bisquertt | |||
| 189 | Chile | Clean and honest up front, with moderate richness and modest telltale Casablanca pineapple aromas. The plate is creamier than many wines in this price range, with flavors of apple cider, citrus and some pith. Overall this is a good value wine with enough citrus and acidity to qualify it as fresh. | Natura | 87 | 11.0 | Casablanca Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Emiliana 2008 Natura Chardonnay (Casablanca Valley) | Chardonnay | Emiliana | |||
| 190 | Italy | Chocolate, espresso, plum and black currant are backed by smoky nuances and natural rubber. This muscular wine offers polished tannins and firm structure to the end. A bit of wine from the 2005 and 2006 vintages is blended in. | Campole | 87 | 26.0 | Southern Italy | Campania | Fattoria Alois 2007 Campole Red (Campania) | Red Blend | Fattoria Alois | ||||
| 191 | Australia | From the little-known region of Padthaway, this Cabernet starts off with some very promising, perfumed aromas of mint and cassis, but then shows touches of chocolate and raisined fruit on the palate. It's soft and mouthfilling—an easy-drinking Cab to consume on the young side. | The Trial of John Montford | 87 | 30.0 | South Australia | Padthaway | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Henry's Drive Vignerons 2006 The Trial of John Montford Cabernet Sauvignon (Padthaway) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Henry's Drive Vignerons | ||
| 192 | Italy | Here's an interesting blend of Corvina, Cabernet Sauvignon and Rondinella that reflects the aromas and power of each grape variety. The wine offers mature notes of cherry, clove, blackberry and cola: It tastes slightly sweet and very succulent. | Le Pietre Santambrogio | 87 | 20.0 | Veneto | Rosso del Veronese | Aldegheri 2003 Le Pietre Santambrogio Red (Rosso del Veronese) | Red Blend | Aldegheri | ||||
| 193 | France | A citrus-dominated wine, lime and lemon giving a crisp intensity. There is a somewhat bitter toast element, but the acidity, the fresh fruits and the soft structure act as a counter-balance. Give it six months to a year. Screwcap. | 87 | 35.0 | Burgundy | St.-Romain | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Bertrand Ambroise 2006 St.-Romain | Chardonnay | Bertrand Ambroise | |||
| 194 | Italy | Here's a traditional Chianti Classico with pretty aromas of cherry cola, mesquite, almonds and violets. The wine is compact and elegant in the mouth and offers crisp berry flavors on the close. | 87 | Tuscany | Chianti Classico | Campomaggio 2005 Chianti Classico | Sangiovese | Campomaggio | ||||||
| 195 | Italy | This is a mature, jammy wine with thick layers of plum, prune and raisin. The wine's appearance is dark and concentrated and that same sensation of heaviness carries over the palate in the form of black currant and spice. The tannins are firm and tart. | Riserva | 87 | 35.0 | Tuscany | Vino Nobile di Montepulciano | Carpineto 2003 Riserva (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) | Prugnolo Gentile | Carpineto | ||||
| 196 | Italy | Pancole is a pretty expression of Tuscany's popular Vernaccia di San Gimignano with a luminous, bright appearance and pristine aromas of stone and passion fruits. The wine is lean and tonic with spicy notes on the finish. | Pancole | 87 | 18.0 | Tuscany | Vernaccia di San Gimignano | Cesani 2007 Pancole (Vernaccia di San Gimignano) | Vernaccia | Cesani | ||||
| 197 | South Africa | This is a concentrated, fairly full and lush Chenin, rich in toasty oak and vanilla cream as well as notes of baked apple pie and sweet orange. The medium-weight palate is mouthfilling and satisfying, with ample acidity to lift the decadent flavors. Notes of clove, anise and toasted nuts mingle on the lingering finish. Drink now–2019. | 21 Gables | 90 | 23.0 | Western Cape | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Spier 2014 21 Gables Chenin Blanc (Western Cape) | Chenin Blanc | Spier | |||
| 198 | US | This is a soft, well-crafted wine from the eastern side of St. Helena that's both classic in its dried herb, tobacco and tea aromas and fruity with red currant and cranberry notes. | Four Soil Mélange | 90 | 60.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Sequum 2013 Four Soil Mélange Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Sequum | |
| 199 | US | This is a beatifully balanced, not-too-full-bodied wine from vines grown at 2,400 feet in the Sierra range. It has classic black cherry, black olive and anise aromas, harmonious fruit flavors accented with light oak spiciness and a firm, fine-grained tannic structure. | Rising Starr Estate Bottled | 90 | 28.0 | California | Nevada County | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Sierra Starr 2014 Rising Starr Estate Bottled Cabernet Franc (Nevada County) | Cabernet Franc | Sierra Starr | |
| 200 | Italy | Aromas of mature black-skinned berry, tobacco and dark spice lead the way. The rounded palate offers dried cherry, raspberry, coffee and a licorice note alongside velvety if not very persistent tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, this is evolving quickly so enjoy over the next several years. | Riserva | 90 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tenuta di Sesta 2011 Riserva (Brunello di Montalcino) | Sangiovese | Tenuta di Sesta | |||
| 201 | Italy | Made with 60% Pinot Bianco, 30% Chardonnay and 10% Sauvignon Blanc, this boasts appealing aromas of acacia flower, nectarine and Alpine herb. The elegant palate delivers juicy Gala apple, yellow peach and a touch of ginger alongside fresh acidity. | Nova Domus Riserva | 90 | 62.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Terlan 2014 Nova Domus Riserva White (Alto Adige) | White Blend | Terlan | ||
| 202 | Israel | This wine features pleasing aromas of raspberry, jumper berry and black pepper. There is a nice mélange of fruit and spice flavors, notably black cherry, dark plums, anise, and cardamom. Smooth tannins ply the palate right into a bright finish that bears a touch of salinity. | 90 | 50.0 | Judean Hills | Mike DeSimone | @worldwineguys | Yatir 2011 Syrah (Judean Hills) | Syrah | Yatir | ||||
| 203 | Portugal | A year in wood and 30 months in bottle before release have allowed this attractive wine to fully develop its solid yet smooth texture. It has concentration, layers of bright black currant fruit and vibrant acidity. Ready to drink. | Montes Claros Garrafeira | 90 | 28.0 | Alentejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Adega Cooperativa de Borba 2012 Montes Claros Garrafeira Red (Alentejo) | Portuguese Red | Adega Cooperativa de Borba | |||
| 204 | US | This bottling belongs to a series of wines from the legendary Jerry Lohr emphasizing Rhône varieties. It shows candied blackberry, violets and potpourri on the fruity, flowery and inviting nose. The palate leads with savory black pepper, which accents its core of black plum, blackberry and purple flower flavors. | Gesture | 90 | 30.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | J. Lohr 2014 Gesture G-S-M (Paso Robles) | G-S-M | J. Lohr | |
| 205 | US | Rich honeysuckle, marzipan and oak aromas meet bright lemongrass on the nose of this bottling, showing both the fresh and oxidative sides of the grape. Smoked chicken and brioche notes are prominent on the palate, leading to a tangy, botanical, juniper-laced finish. | October Night | 90 | 25.0 | California | Arroyo Seco | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | J. Lohr 2015 October Night Chardonnay (Arroyo Seco) | Chardonnay | J. Lohr | |
| 206 | US | This is an extraordiary deal for a solidly built, high-level wine. It offers succulent cherry, raspberry and vanilla flavors, wrapped in approachable, mellowed tannin and oak. | 90 | 25.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Courtney Benham 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Courtney Benham | ||
| 207 | US | Juicy and austere in understated waves of cranberry and cherry fruit, this wine delivers subtle power and intensity in a leathery-textured package. True to its old vine heritage, it shows a dry dustiness of peppery spice. | Home Ranch Teldeschi Vineyards Century Old Vine | 90 | 32.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Del Carlo Winery 2014 Home Ranch Teldeschi Vineyards Century Old Vine Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley) | Zinfandel | Del Carlo Winery | |
| 208 | South Africa | A stony, flinty character leads the nose of this blend of 54% Sauvignon Blanc and 46% Sémillon, followed by scents of ripe peach, nectarine, freshly dried grass and herbs. The medium-weight palate offers more clean fruit flavors that result in a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel. Ample acidity lends freshness to the finish, alongside a lingering yellow flower character. Drink now–2019. | Reserve | 90 | 40.0 | Coastal Region | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Delaire Graff 2013 Reserve White (Coastal Region) | White Blend | Delaire Graff | |||
| 209 | France | Intriguing, thought provoking and complex, this wine starts off with perfumed aromas of thyme, bay leaf and lavender. It's supple in the mouth and silky in feel, imbued with black cherry and blueberry fruit, then shows a hint of adhesive bandage on the finish. Drink now. | 90 | 16.0 | Rhône Valley | Côtes du Rhône | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Domaine St Pierre 2014 Red (Côtes du Rhône) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Domaine St Pierre | |||
| 210 | South Africa | This leads with clean yet soft scents of ripe apple, Anjoy pear and orange blossom. Those notes carry through to the medium-weight palate, well integrated with soft toasted-oak tones. It's harmonious and balanced, with ample acidity lending good lift through the close. Drink now. | 90 | 20.0 | Western Cape | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Eikendal 2014 Chardonnay (Western Cape) | Chardonnay | Eikendal | ||||
| 211 | France | This is taut and sinewy in profile, but shows off a fine range of aromas, from thyme and lavender to cocoa, red plum and ripe cherry. The raspberry and herb flavors finish in a storm of firm tannins. Drink 2020–2025. | Les Christins | 90 | 32.0 | Rhône Valley | Vacqueyras | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Famille Perrin 2013 Les Christins Red (Vacqueyras) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Famille Perrin | ||
| 212 | Spain | Mellow white-fruit aromas are nonspecific and oaky, but not overly so. This barrel-fermented Verdejo feels plump and chunky, with balancing acidity. Salty melon, apricot and apple flavors end steady and long. For barrel-fermented Verdejo, this is at the top of the pile. | Fermentado en Barrica | 90 | 40.0 | Northern Spain | Rueda | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Matarromera 2015 Fermentado en Barrica Verdejo (Rueda) | Verdejo | Matarromera | ||
| 213 | US | This blend of 60% Petite Sirah, 21% Syrah, 7% Grenache, 6% Petit Verdot, 5% Tannat and 1% Viognier is tightly wound but likely to improve with time. Opened now, it offers elderberry, black currant, pencil lead and loam on the nose, with lava rock, crème de cassis and kirsch flavors slowing emerging on the palate. | 1105 | 90 | 48.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | MCV 2014 1105 Red (Paso Robles) | Red Blend | MCV | |
| 214 | US | This is a big, brawny expression of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Counoise, the Grenache playing the dominant role in the blend. It coats the palate in dense raspberry and blueberry fruit, seasoned with pepper and nutmeg. A leathery touch to the texture and lifted acidity keeps it from feeling heavy or overdone. | Verah | 90 | 36.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Mounts 2014 Verah Red (Dry Creek Valley) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Mounts | |
| 215 | Israel | Aromas of blackberry, fennel bulb and smoke set the scene for flavors of cherry, raspberry, chocolate and tobacco leaf. Mellow but ever-apparent tannins ply the palate alongside a strong bolt of acidity that tapers off into a pomegranate-imbued finish. | French Blend | 90 | 80.0 | Galilee | Mike DeSimone | @worldwineguys | Or Haganuz 2014 French Blend Red (Galilee) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Or Haganuz | |||
| 216 | Italy | Black-skinned berry, pipe tobacco and Mediterranean herb aromas waft out of the glass and carry over to the firm linear palate along with morello cherry, licorice and a hint of clove. Taut fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity provide the backbone while orange peel marks the finish. Drink 2019–2025. | 90 | 57.0 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Podere Scopetone 2012 Brunello di Montalcino | Sangiovese | Podere Scopetone | |||
| 217 | Portugal | Wood aging gives this ripe blend of Baga and Touriga Nacional its richness and density. It's full of black fruit, toast and a touch of pepper. With ripe tannins and crisp acidity, it can easily age another year. Drink from 2018. | 90 | 20.0 | Beira Atlantico | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta de Foz de Arouce 2013 Red (Beira Atlantico) | Portuguese Red | Quinta de Foz de Arouce | ||||
| 218 | US | Pithy, with grapefruit and lemon peel flavors, this wine is deceptively crisp and light on the nose, offering a wealth of body and lushness on the palate, accented with nutmeg and peach. It includes 4% Sémillon, partly from the winery's beloved To Kalon vineyard. | 90 | 20.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Robert Mondavi 2015 Fumé Blanc (Napa Valley) | Fumé Blanc | Robert Mondavi | ||
| 219 | Hungary | From a vineyard in Northern Tokaj this dry Furmint has aromas of citrus pith and freshly cut pineapple. In the mouth, there are delightful flavors of grapefruit juice and white peach before the pleasantly acidic finish. | Megyer Dry | 90 | 36.0 | Tokaj | Jeff Jenssen | @worldwineguys | Samuel Tinon 2015 Megyer Dry Furmint (Tokaj) | Furmint | Samuel Tinon | |||
| 220 | US | Briny green olive notes underlie a tropically ripe, full-bodied expression of the variety. The wine's apple, pineapple and mango fruit is wrapped in toasted oak and moderate acidity. | 90 | 40.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Sixteen by Twenty 2014 Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) | Chardonnay | Sixteen by Twenty | ||
| 221 | Italy | This opens with enticing aromas of chamomile flower, white peach and a whiff of Alpine herb. The elegant palate offers McIntosh apple, candied lemon and a vein of energizing mineral. Fresh acidity lends balance. | Passion Riserva | 90 | 40.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | St. Pauls 2014 Passion Riserva Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige) | Pinot Bianco | St. Pauls | ||
| 222 | Italy | Chopped herb, forest floor, leather, espresso and a balsamic note are some of the aromas that waft out of the glass. The powerfully structured palate delivers prune, dried cherry, tobacco, and roasted coffee bean framed in firm fine-grained tannins. Give the tannins a few more years to unwind then drink to capture the fruit richness. Drink 2018–2023. | Trentennale | 90 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Talenti 2011 Trentennale (Brunello di Montalcino) | Sangiovese | Talenti | |||
| 223 | Italy | Bright and creamy, this savory white offers aromas and flavors of ripe apple, Bartlett pear, Alpine herb and a citrus note. Fresh acidity and a mineral vein energize the finish. | 90 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Terlan 2015 Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige) | Pinot Bianco | Terlan | ||||
| 224 | Argentina | Blackberry and road-tar aromas are dark and stout. This is moderately tannic and a bit rough and jagged on the palate. Flavors of stewed black plum and prune are ripe almost to an extreme, and that's how it finishes as well. | Lunta | 90 | 22.0 | Mendoza Province | Luján de Cuyo | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Mendel 2014 Lunta Malbec (Luján de Cuyo) | Malbec | Mendel | ||
| 225 | South Africa | There's a pleasant, toasty seam throughout the nose and mouth of this well-balanced wine, expressed in notes of sweet spice and honeycomb that frame the yellow melon and apple fruit core. It's plush and mouthfilling, but not flabby or overdone, thanks to balancing acidity and an assertive spicy tone that dominates the finish. Drink now. | 90 | 25.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Oldenburg 2013 Chardonnay (Stellenbosch) | Chardonnay | Oldenburg | ||||
| 226 | South Africa | This is a round and rich wine, with notes of wood-grilled apple, guava and toasted challah. Smooth and lush in feel, ripe peach and tropical tones drive the palate, while hints of honeysuckle and baking spice unfold on the finish. Ample acidity keeps the wine's weight in check. Drink now. | 90 | 20.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Oldenburg 2014 Chenin Blanc (Stellenbosch) | Chenin Blanc | Oldenburg | ||||
| 227 | US | The deep ruby color belies this wines cool-climate origins. The nose shows more black fruit aromas than is typical for Pinot Noir. The palate is all Pinot, though, with cherry pie filling flavors made more complex by vanilla from toasty new oak. It finishes with some nice mineral and earth notes. Silky tannins allow for immediate consumption but the wine will gain in complexity after a year or two in the cellar. | Grace House | 85 | 15.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Wagner 2006 Grace House Pinot Noir (Finger Lakes) | Pinot Noir | Wagner | |||
| 228 | US | A thoroughly honest effort, opening with lovely quince, apple and lemon fruit. The palate has a crisp lime edge and finishes with a kick of refreshing acidity. Drink now. | Semi-Dry | 85 | 14.0 | New York | Cayuga Lake | Finger Lakes | Treleaven 2006 Semi-Dry Riesling (Cayuga Lake) | Riesling | Treleaven | |||
| 229 | US | Not clear what the varietal blend is, but it's like a nice, easy southern Rhône wine. Soft and fruity, it's rich in jammy blackberry, cherry, Mandarin orange, chocolate and anise spice flavors. | Costa Del Sol | 85 | 18.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Benessere 2005 Costa Del Sol Red (Napa Valley) | Red Blend | Benessere | |||
| 230 | US | Orange blossom and flowers lead on this Gewürtz, and on the palate, a citric, lemon edge outweighs the sweet and floral components that would give this wine a prettier edge. Nonetheless, the wine has an attractive, crisp and clean character and will pair well with grilled seafood and poultry. | 85 | 16.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Bloomer Creek 2006 Gewürztraminer (Finger Lakes) | Gewürztraminer | Bloomer Creek | ||
| 231 | Argentina | Meaty and rubbery, but that's young Bonarda. This is a sound wine with dark berry flavors, raisin and pulsing acidity. Still, there's modest roundness to the palate and length to the finish. Overall, it's tasty, full and borderline raisiny. Drink now. | 85 | 10.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Andean Sky 2007 Bonarda (Mendoza) | Bonarda | Andean Sky | |||
| 232 | Australia | Lifted cedar and pine notes interspersed with appealing woodsy scents give way to a surprisingly intense palate that shows some nice peppery notes but ultimately falls short on the finish. Nearly imperceptible tannins suggest early consumption. | Red Belly Black | 85 | 12.0 | South Australia | South Australia | Angove's 2006 Red Belly Black Shiraz (South Australia) | Shiraz | Angove's | ||||
| 233 | US | There is an odd, piercing edge to the aromas, a mix of acetic acid and pungent herb, with a hint of diesel. Somehow it's not off-putting, just atypical. The light, tart fruit is a mix of rhubarb and cranberry, very earthy and tasting of dirt and bark in the finish. This could be quite pleasant with a hearty, rustic dish such as beef Bourgogne. | Reserve | 85 | 28.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Silvan Ridge 2006 Reserve Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Silvan Ridge | |
| 234 | Italy | Neutral and unassuming on first impact, this luminous rosé eventually delivers notes of mineral, ash, stone fruit and small berry. The wine offers more in the mouth, however, where it exhibits fresh flavors of raspberry and blueberry. | Cerasuolo Rosè | 85 | 10.0 | Central Italy | Montepulciano d'Abruzzo | Talamonti 2007 Cerasuolo Rosè (Montepulciano d'Abruzzo) | Montepulciano | Talamonti | ||||
| 235 | US | Overly sweet and simple, and something of a disappointment given the winery's past performance, this Syrah tastes like melted cherry jam, stirred with chocolate pie filling and sprinkled with fennel and pepper. | Thompson Vineyard | 85 | 49.0 | California | Santa Barbara County | Central Coast | Testarossa 2006 Thompson Vineyard Syrah (Santa Barbara County) | Syrah | Testarossa | |||
| 236 | US | Shows rich, firm mountain tannins and well-ripened, concentrated flavors of blackberries, cherries, currants and cocoa, and is thoroughly dry. But the wine loses a few points for hot caramelization, which may be partly over-charred oak and partly shriveled, overripe berries, if not both. | Kiss Ridge Vineyard | 85 | 85.0 | California | Diamond Mountain District | Napa | Meeker 2004 Kiss Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain District) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Meeker | |||
| 237 | Italy | The wine boasts a beautiful appearance thanks to its saturated golden color and faint amber highlights. It has a very fragrant nose and offers honey, peach and soapy floral notes. In the mouth, the wine delivers sweet fruit and a soft, silky texture. | 85 | 18.0 | Central Italy | San Marino | Consorzio Vini Tipici di San Marino NV Moscato (San Marino) | Moscato | Consorzio Vini Tipici di San Marino | |||||
| 238 | Australia | The sort of wine one imagines early Australian settlers gulped down—big and burly in the mouth and a bit warm, rough and dusty on the finish. Hints of mint-accented cherry fruit and earthy notes. | The Derelict Vineyard | 85 | 29.0 | South Australia | McLaren Vale | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | D'Arenberg 2006 The Derelict Vineyard Grenache (McLaren Vale) | Grenache | D'Arenberg | ||
| 239 | US | A little rough and rugged, with jangly tannins and blackberry fruit so ripe it veers into raisins. Very dry, it's probably at its best now. | 85 | 36.0 | California | Mendocino | Dogwood 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendocino) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Dogwood | |||||
| 240 | France | Dominated by Ugni Blanc, the grape also used in the local Armagnac brandy, this is a tight, crisp wine, green but not unpleasantly so. Its acidity comes from fresh apple flavors, touched with some good juiciness and a fine refreshing finish. Screwcap. | 85 | 9.0 | Southwest France | Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Tariquet 2007 Ugni Blanc-Colombard (Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne) | Ugni Blanc-Colombard | Domaine du Tariquet | |||
| 241 | US | Sweetly rich in cherry, red currant and chocolate flavors, with a peppery edge, this Sangiovese is soft in structure. The bright acidity can cut through tomato sauce with cheese. | 85 | 34.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Falcor 2005 Sangiovese (Napa Valley) | Sangiovese | Falcor | ||||
| 242 | US | Made in the modern California style, with very ripe, rather sweet pineapple jam, green apple butter and smoky oak flavors that are wrapped into a creamy texture. | Reserve Selection | 85 | 15.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Hayman & Hill 2007 Reserve Selection Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) | Chardonnay | Hayman & Hill | |||
| 243 | US | This sparkling wine starts with a toasty but soft nose, leading into clean but fruity flavors and a refreshing finish. Though an earlier release might have allowed more primary fruit to show through, the wine offers easygoing but elegant enjoyment. | Blanc de Blanc | 85 | 30.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Hermann J. Wiemer 2002 Blanc de Blanc Chardonnay (Finger Lakes) | Chardonnay | Hermann J. Wiemer | |||
| 244 | Spain | Simple but well-maded wine with aromas of chewing gum, cherry and blackberry. It's a plump, sort of grabby red with sweet raspberry and chocolate flavors followed by a creamy, soft finish. Not much complexity but good fruit and depth. Not the least bit hard to drink. Good mass wine. | Herederos de François Lurton Villafrance de Duero | 85 | 13.0 | Northern Spain | Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | J. & F. Lurton 2007 Herederos de François Lurton Villafrance de Duero Red (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León) | Red Blend | J. & F. Lurton | ||
| 245 | Argentina | Not exactly a world-class white wine but at least it smells and tastes like Chardonnay. The nose offers some butter and lemon curd, while the palate is jumpy and tastes like a mix of pear, apple and spice. A fresh, young wine that should be drunk soon. | Reserve | 85 | 12.0 | Other | San Juan | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Finca Las Moras 2007 Reserve Chardonnay (San Juan) | Chardonnay | Finca Las Moras | ||
| 246 | Australia | Juicy and well balanced, this is an admirable effort at the price. Boxwood, grapefruit, lemon and quince notes make for a sophisticated first impression. The palate is straightforward citrus while gooseberry notes pop up on the dry finish. Drink now. | Destinations | 85 | 15.0 | South Australia | Adelaide Hills | Long Flat 2006 Destinations Sauvignon Blanc (Adelaide Hills) | Sauvignon Blanc | Long Flat | ||||
| 247 | US | Tasty, with pie-filling cherries, blackberries and currants accented with smoky oak, but a little on the soft side. Fully developed, so drink now. | Reserve | 85 | 25.0 | California | Sonoma Mountain | Sonoma | Work 2004 Reserve Merlot (Sonoma Mountain) | Merlot | Work | |||
| 248 | US | This seems as if it was assembled from lesser barrels. It's pleasant, very light, simple and tart; the dominant flavor is cranberry juice. | Estate Single Vineyard | 85 | 45.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Amity 2006 Estate Single Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Amity | |
| 249 | US | Cherry pie-filling and boysenberry notes open this impressive blend of Merlot and Petit Verdot. Abundant but velvety tannins give a lift to blueberry and chocolate tones in the mouth, while the slightly grippy finish shows appealing mixed berry flavors. | Petit Verdot-Merlot | 85 | 18.0 | Virginia | Monticello | Autumn Hill 2007 Petit Verdot-Merlot Red (Monticello) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Autumn Hill | ||||
| 250 | US | Ripe, soft and a little sweet, with jellied flavors of blackberries, cherries, chocolate and anise. Drink now. | Estate | 85 | 49.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Blue Rock 2005 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Blue Rock | |||
| 251 | US | Spicy and tannic, this inexpensive Pinot from Cherry Hill opens with earthy fruit and leaf flavors—tomato and herb dominate, with just a suggestion of berry. There isn't much in the way of ripeness here, to either fruit or tannins. | Papillon Estate | 85 | 22.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Cherry Hill 2006 Papillon Estate Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Cherry Hill | |
| 252 | US | Shows the briary, brambly character of Foothills Zin, with an array of wild berry, tobacco, mocha and Asian spice flavors wrapped into finely ground tannins. But the wine is too sweet and candied in the finish. Drink now. | Seity | 85 | 35.0 | California | Amador County | Sierra Foothills | Cloud 9 2006 Seity Zinfandel (Amador County) | Zinfandel | Cloud 9 | |||
| 253 | Argentina | Huge in color and extract, but also a little childish. The nose has gumball, berry jam and a touch of volatility, but after things settle it rests on bold black fruit. It's not overly rich or sweet, and the feel is sort of sinewy. Seems more about size and color than refinement and polish. | Reserve | 85 | 15.0 | Mendoza Province | Luján de Cuyo | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cueva de las Manos 2007 Reserve Malbec (Luján de Cuyo) | Malbec | Cueva de las Manos | ||
| 254 | US | The winery has a good track record with this bottling, which shows how well Petite Sirah does in the warmer St. Helena appellation of Napa Valley. This '08 is dryish to moderately sweet in jammy blackberries and blueberries, with a smoked meat, bacon edge. But it's also firmly tannic, which provides a framework for the sweetness. | 89 | 45.0 | California | St. Helena | Napa | David Fulton 2008 Petite Sirah (St. Helena) | Petite Sirah | David Fulton | ||||
| 255 | US | Esterlina's Pinot is very perfumey, light in body and soul at first, as it gathers steam with a tasty backbone of lush red fruit, spice and plenty of staying power over a meal. | Reserva | 89 | 55.0 | California | Cole Ranch | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Esterlina 2009 Reserva Pinot Noir (Cole Ranch) | Pinot Noir | Esterlina | ||
| 256 | South Africa | A good value, this is an easy-pleasing Syrah with vibrant notes of red plum, cherry and blueberry. Fine, dusty tannins reminiscent of cocoa powder and dried crushed berries stay after swallow alongside a hint of sweet smoke flavor. | Goat-Roti | 89 | 20.0 | Coastal Region | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Goats do Roam Wine Co. 2008 Goat-Roti Syrah-Viognier (Coastal Region) | Syrah-Viognier | Goats do Roam Wine Co. | |||
| 257 | South Africa | This approachable Cabernet-based blend, which also has 18% Pinotage, 11% Cab Franc and 2% Shiraz, is a spicy and balanced red with notes of menthol, purple florals, black cherry and berry. With a mouthfeel like crushed velvet, a black pepper finish and an attractive price tag, it's a shame only 100 cases were produced. | The William | 89 | 18.0 | Coastal Region | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Graham Beck 2007 The William Red (Coastal Region) | Red Blend | Graham Beck | |||
| 258 | South Africa | This wine strikes a superb balance between herbaceous, green notes and ripe black fruit, all graced with a kiss of sweet vanilla. Rich blackberry and cassis flavors flood the palate, but then transition to sweet smoke and oak flavors on the finish. | 89 | 35.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Hartenberg 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Stellenbosch) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Hartenberg | ||||
| 259 | France | Tannic yet balanced wine with a great swathe of perfumed fruit as well as dense black flavors. There is a herbal character as well as dark plum and sweet fruit flavors. Age for 2–3 years, the wine will always be firm. | Noir 46 | 89 | 13.0 | Southwest France | Cahors | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Vignobles 46N118 2007 Noir 46 Malbec (Cahors) | Malbec | Vignobles 46N118 | ||
| 260 | US | Young, tart and wrapped up tight as a drum, this offers sharp flavors of cranberry and a bit of Campari. It has the heft and polish to open up further with some additional bottle age, but it isn't budging at the moment. | Estate | 89 | 40.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Willamette Valley Vineyards 2009 Estate Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Willamette Valley Vineyards | |
| 261 | Argentina | A blend of 50% Malbec with Cabernet, Syrah and Merlot that's lightly minty and full of tobacco, pepper and spicy aromas. Feels a bit clampy and tannic, with oaky, herbal flavors of plum and sweet berry. Shows a hint of green and drying tannins on the finish. | Estate Blend Gran Reserva | 89 | 37.0 | Mendoza Province | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Algodon 2008 Estate Blend Gran Reserva Red | Red Blend | Algodon | |||
| 262 | US | Beaver Creek makes a variation of Fairytale every vintage and this one, sourced from Napa Valley, is 41% Merlot, 36% Zinfandel and 23% Syrah, a mix that seems to work very nicely here. The wine's Zin almost tastes as if it has mountain tannins; the wine is overall herbal and earthy, ripe and sturdy with balanced fruit. | Fairytale | 89 | 39.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Beaver Creek 2008 Fairytale Red (Napa Valley) | Red Blend | Beaver Creek | |
| 263 | US | A very good Pinot Noir, rich in cherry, licorice, cola and spice flavors that are wrapped into firm tannins. It's on the forward side, trading complexity and nuance in favor of immediate gratification. Drink now–2014. | Monument | 89 | 60.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Byron 2009 Monument Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Byron | |||
| 264 | South Africa | A good amount of earthy spice, tea leaves and forrest floor lead the way on the nose, but the black cherry and berry fruit aromas follow shortly after with an additional accent of sweet cured meat. Medium weight and lush, the creamy mouth transitions into a finish loaded with sweet spice and bittersweet cocoa. | 89 | 19.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Jardin 2007 Syrah (Stellenbosch) | Syrah | Jardin | ||||
| 265 | South Africa | Fairly intense and flavorful, this Chard expresses assertive aromas and flavors of wood-grilled peaches, buttercream frosting, lemon custard and toasted brioche. Medium weight in the mouth with good balance and a touch of baking spice on the close. | Nine Yards | 89 | 40.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Jardin 2009 Nine Yards Chardonnay (Stellenbosch) | Chardonnay | Jardin | |||
| 266 | Argentina | For an under-$15 red blend, Corte has it going on. It's rich and full, almost syrupy on the nose, with lots of oak, ink and vanilla. Shows power and packs a punch, with dark berry, chocolate and spicy flavors. A little tannic and scratchy, but with structure and framework to spare. Malbec (80%), with Bonarda and Petit Verdot. | Corte Malbec-Bonarda-Petit Verdot | 89 | 14.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Kaiken 2008 Corte Malbec-Bonarda-Petit Verdot Red (Mendoza) | Red Blend | Kaiken | ||
| 267 | Italy | This vineyard-designate blend of Trebbiano and Grechetto opens with a luminous golden color and elegant aromas of stone fruit, citrus, Golden Delicious apple and mature pear. There's a pretty hint of vanilla and almond butter at the back. | Torre di Giano Vigna il Pino | 89 | 40.0 | Central Italy | Torgiano | Lungarotti 2007 Torre di Giano Vigna il Pino White (Torgiano) | White Blend | Lungarotti | ||||
| 268 | Italy | This sophisticated white wine from the homeland of Italy's most robust reds (Ripasso and Amarone) shows a full, generous appearance with a golden-amber color. Stone fruit, toasted almond and candied lemon give it heft and consistency. | Terso | 89 | 36.0 | Veneto | Veneto | Marchesi Fumanelli 2005 Terso White (Veneto) | White Blend | Marchesi Fumanelli | ||||
| 269 | Austria | Smooth and ripe, this is a rich black-fruited wine, its tannins comfortably ensconsed in a rich cushion. There is acidity to balance and spice which, along with the full-bodied fruit character, makes the wine ready to drink now. | 89 | 17.0 | Leithaberg | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Mariell 2009 Blaufränkisch (Leithaberg) | Blaufränkisch | Mariell | ||||
| 270 | Italy | A gorgeous expression of Friulano, this wine (in a screwcap bottle) makes an elegant addition to chicken, pasta or seafood dinners. Layers of peach, almond and pineapple are wrapped tightly together. | 89 | 25.0 | Northeastern Italy | Colli Orientali del Friuli | Livio Felluga 2009 Friulano (Colli Orientali del Friuli) | Friulano | Livio Felluga | |||||
| 271 | Greece | Lively aromas of lemon, grapefruit and melon start this white from Greece. Flavors of grapefruit and lemon rind are fresh and crisp but still offer dimension. The finish is spicy and clean. A great food wine: pair with grilled fish or clams. | 89 | 15.0 | Santorini | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | My Big Fat Greek Wine 2010 Assyrtico (Santorini) | Assyrtico | My Big Fat Greek Wine | ||||
| 272 | Italy | This partially oak-aged expression of Pinot Bianco from cool-climate Alto Adige (in the far north of Italy) offers a lovely texture that is creamy and smooth at the same time. Measured aromas include melon, apricot, grapefruit and a touch of vanilla spice. | Sirmian | 89 | 26.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Nals Margreid 2010 Sirmian Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige) | Pinot Bianco | Nals Margreid | ||||
| 273 | Argentina | Leather, berry, earth, raisin and roasted qualities define the nose on this Tempranillo-led blend of four grapes. Feels good in the mouth, with active raspberry, plum and coffee flavors that comes with a roasted accent. Mildly leafy, baked and woody on the thorough finish. | B Crux | 89 | 19.0 | Mendoza Province | Uco Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | O. Fournier 2007 B Crux Red (Uco Valley) | Red Blend | O. Fournier | ||
| 274 | Italy | This is a gorgeous Italian white from northern Italy that boasts fragrant tones of spring flower and chopped herb backed by peach, honey and white almond. It's crisp, intense and would be perfect with basil Thai curry. | Estrosa | 89 | 13.0 | Piedmont | Monferrato | Pico Maccario 2010 Estrosa White (Monferrato) | White Blend | Pico Maccario | ||||
| 275 | Argentina | A medium-weight Cabernet with plum, prune, tobacco and herb aromas. Features average weight and body, with a creamy texture and layered flavors of black fruit, raspberry and spice. Finishes with herb and plum notes as well as a pinch of tobacco. | Reserva de Familia | 89 | 30.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Sottano 2009 Reserva de Familia Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendoza) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Sottano | ||
| 276 | US | A huge, kick butt Zinfandel, packed with sweet berry, bacon, black pepper and smoky cedar flavors. There's absolutely nothing shy about it. Packs a real punch all the way through to the spicy finish. Good price for a Sonoma Zin this classic. | Old Vines | 89 | 20.0 | California | Sonoma County | Sonoma | St. Francis 2009 Old Vines Zinfandel (Sonoma County) | Zinfandel | St. Francis | |||
| 277 | US | Quite a good Cabernet, showing the elegance and ripe fruitiness you expect from Napa, in a style for drinking now. Drily tannic, it shows classic blackberry and blueberry flavors. | 89 | 30.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Trailhead 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Trailhead | ||||
| 278 | US | Fruity, forward and quite refreshing, this has appealing black cherry fruit with a light candy flavor. The balancing tannins add sufficient depth and weight to allow this a few more years in the cellar. | Bishop Creek | 89 | 50.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Erath 2009 Bishop Creek Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | Erath | ||
| 279 | Italy | This oak-fermented Sauvignon (in an artsy, screwcap bottle) delivers a rich, spicy finish and thick layers of peach, citrus, tomato leaf and honey-like aromas. It's a gorgeous wine that is an absolute pleasure to drink. | 89 | 52.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Franz Haas 2009 Sauvignon (Alto Adige) | Sauvignon | Franz Haas | |||||
| 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 | 24.0 | Kremstal | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Forstreiter 2012 Schiefer Reserve Grüner Veltliner (Kremstal) | Grüner Veltliner | Forstreiter | |||
| 281 | US | This is another fine Pinot from Cambria, showing the winery's great price-quality ratio. Words like opulent and elegant come to mind to describe intense flavors of black cherries, licorice, cola, herb tea and Indian spices. It's bone dry, and also quite tannic, but you can enjoy it now with big, rich lamb and beef dishes, or a wild mushroom risotto. Otherwise, it will continue to improve for at least eight years. | Bench Break Vineyard | 92 | 34.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Cambria 2011 Bench Break Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Cambria | |||
| 282 | Italy | This delicious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot opens with an intense, brooding fragrance of dark fruit, spice and leather. The palate delivers a concentrated black-cherry flavor that's framed by big, chewy tannins and punctuated by spicy accents of white and black pepper, licorice and pipe. Drink 2015–2024. | Dulcamara | 92 | 41.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | I Giusti e Zanza 2009 Dulcamara Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | I Giusti e Zanza | ||
| 283 | US | Bella Vida replaces the Abbey Ridge bottling and does so with pizzazz. The best of the 2011 releases, this is a beautiful expression of grapes grown on red clay soils, with refined, deeply penetrating flavors of ripe raspberries. Smooth, supple and long, with uncommon purity, it finishes with a kiss of chocolate from 18 months in one-quarter new oak barrels. | Bella Vida Vineyard Unfiltered | 92 | 52.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | J. Christopher 2011 Bella Vida Vineyard Unfiltered Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Noir | J. Christopher | |
| 284 | Argentina | This huge Malbec defines jammy and concentrated. The bouquet is ripe, soft and minty, while the palate echoes the nose with thickness and density. Flavors of prune, raisin, tea and blackberry are borderline syrupy, while the finish is smooth and pure but doesn't offer much spine or foundation. Drink this modern Malbec sooner rather than later. | Marchiori Vineyard Block C2 | 92 | 215.0 | Mendoza Province | Perdriel | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Viña Cobos 2011 Marchiori Vineyard Block C2 Malbec (Perdriel) | Malbec | Viña Cobos | ||
| 285 | Austria | This is a very aromatic wine that's rich, spicy and with just a touch of ripeness. It has spiced pear, lychee and honey notes all balanced by a wonderful fresh acidity. Drink now and until 2020. Screwcap. | Steiner Kögl Erste Lage | 92 | Kremstal | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Salomon-Undhof 2011 Steiner Kögl Erste Lage Riesling (Kremstal) | Riesling | Salomon-Undhof | ||||
| 286 | US | While delicious now with flavors of raspberries, cherries, cola and oak, all showered with tart, citrusy acidity, this wine also has a great future. Give it 6–8 years to evolve in the bottle for further complexity. | Rincon Vineyard | 92 | 60.0 | California | Arroyo Grande Valley | Central Coast | Talley 2011 Rincon Vineyard Pinot Noir (Arroyo Grande Valley) | Pinot Noir | Talley | |||
| 287 | Spain | This is the stud in the Acústic stable. A blend of 70% Carignan and 30% Garnacha, Braó is lively and bright on the nose, with ripe blackberry and cassis aromas. The palate is concentrated and juicy, with fine balance and bold flavors of blueberry, blackberry and coffee. A toasty, dark finish features chocolate, toast and minerality. Drink through 2019. | Braó Vinyes Velles | 92 | 40.0 | Catalonia | Montsant | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Acústic 2010 Braó Vinyes Velles Carignan-Grenache (Montsant) | Carignan-Grenache | Acústic | ||
| 288 | Austria | While it feels rich and round, this is also a wine with a crisp side to it. Acidity cuts through ripe pear, apricot and lychee flavors, giving a decidedly crisp balance. It's a wine that is already ready to drink. Screwcap. | Kremser Gebling Erste Lage | 92 | Kremstal | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Josef Schmid 2011 Kremser Gebling Erste Lage Grüner Veltliner (Kremstal) | Grüner Veltliner | Josef Schmid | ||||
| 289 | US | This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is so rich and decadent, with milk chocolate, blackberry and new French oak flavors. Made by celebrity winemaker Philippe Melka, it's soft and approacheable on the palate and widely appealing. Your best bet is to drink up now. | Fortune Teller | 92 | 125.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Parallel 2010 Fortune Teller Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Parallel | |||
| 290 | France | This is a wine that has great potential—you can tell from the firm tannins, tight acidity and closed texture. Initially, black currant flavors are touched with dark, dusty notes, but they finish with more juicy character on the afterntaste. Drink from 2017. | 92 | Bordeaux | Saint-Estèphe | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Lafon-Rochet 2011 Saint-Estèphe | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Lafon-Rochet | ||||
| 291 | Italy | This powerful Sagrantino opens with aromas of meat juice, truffle and black fruit. The palate offers blackberry, black cherry, cinnamon and black pepper, along with tobacco notes. It also has Sagrantino's trademark tannic backbone, but the tannins are ripe and are balanced by bright acidity. | 92 | Central Italy | Sagrantino di Montefalco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Dionigi 2006 Sagrantino di Montefalco | Sagrantino | Dionigi | ||||
| 292 | France | Rich almonds, ripe peaches and a smoky, oxidized character all come together in this ripe, complex, fascinating wine. There is a great tang of apple acidity on the finish. Drink now. | Vin Jaune | 92 | 45.0 | France Other | Arbois | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Daniel Dugois 2006 Vin Jaune Savagnin (Arbois) | Savagnin | Domaine Daniel Dugois | ||
| 293 | Australia | This wine displays ample concentration in its inky color and potent aromas of dark berry fruit. There's a hint of raisining as well. In the mouth, it's mouthfilling but lacks a bit of texture; the flavors include dark plums, vanilla and hints of dried fruits, like figs and dates. With a finish that calls to mind chocolate fudge (minus the sugar), opt for drinking this wine over the relatively near term, now to 2020. | Green's Vineyard | 92 | 70.0 | South Australia | Barossa Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Kilikanoon 2009 Green's Vineyard Shiraz (Barossa Valley) | Shiraz | Kilikanoon | ||
| 294 | Argentina | Deep, lush aromas of black fruits, graphite and coconut are welcoming and friendly. The mouthfeel is pure and smooth, with elegance and power. Flavors of cassis, blackberry, hard spices and licorice filter into a long, mellow, classy finish. This is a pushy, full-bodied wine that doesn't throw punches; drink through 2020. | Synthesis | 92 | 30.0 | Mendoza Province | Tupungato | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Finca Sophenia 2011 Synthesis Malbec (Tupungato) | Malbec | Finca Sophenia | ||
| 295 | US | This blend showcases the soft lusciousness and ripe fruit of Paso Robles. It's rich and sweet in jammy blackberries, cherries, chocolate and spicy sandalwood. Drink now. | Treana Red | 87 | 35.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Treana 2008 Treana Red Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah (Paso Robles) | Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah | Treana | |||
| 296 | Chile | Rooty and leafy on the nose, with red berry aromas peeking through some obvious oak. The palate offers cherry and raspberry flavors along with sweetness, and things are backed by vanilla and chocolate. Good, tasty and oaky, with proper layering. | Grey [Glacier] Single Block Trinidad Vineyard | 87 | 20.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Ventisquero 2008 Grey [Glacier] Single Block Trinidad Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Ventisquero | |||
| 297 | US | This is a soft, gentle Cabernet for drinking now. It's pleasantly rich, offering blackberry, cherry, chocolate and cedar flavors, wrapped into easy tannins. | 87 | 15.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Aquinas 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Aquinas | ||||
| 298 | Chile | Foresty and dark on the bouquet, with aromas of licorice, prune, forest and foxiness. The palate is full and tannic, while flavors run sweet, creamy and slightly syrupy, with chocolate and spiced fig notes. Finishes rich and rough, with dry herbs and true Chilean Cab flavors of olive and oregano. | 87 | 19.0 | Aconcagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Arboleda 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (Aconcagua Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Arboleda | ||||
| 299 | Italy | Pinay is a tight and defined red blend from northern Italy with bright accents of cherry cola, forest berry, licorice and dark mineral. There's a sharp, sour note on the close that would pair with smoked cheese. | Pinay | 87 | Piedmont | Langhe | Attilio Ghisolfi 2007 Pinay Red (Langhe) | Red Blend | Attilio Ghisolfi | |||||
| 300 | US | Soft, light in body and easy to drink, this Sangiovese, from the Napa estate vineyard, is delicious in raspberry, red currant, licorice, bacon and spice flavors. It's somewhat ephemeral, an instantly pleasant wine to drink especially with cured meats, olives, hard cheeses. | Estate | 87 | 28.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Benessere 2007 Estate Sangiovese (Napa Valley) | Sangiovese | Benessere | |||
| 301 | US | A good, clean, tart and lightly spicy all-stainless style. Cool climate fruit puts the accent on lime and lemon flavors, keeps the alcohol low (13.3%), and makes this a fine match to shellfish, white fish and light pasta dishes. | Whiteline No Oak | 87 | 14.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Buried Cane 2009 Whiteline No Oak Chardonnay (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Chardonnay | Buried Cane | |
| 302 | Italy | This fresh Nebbiolo-based Roero from Cantina dei Nebbiolo offers pretty intensity with aromas of tar, licorice and a touch of sweet cherry liqueur. There isn't much pulp or meat here but the finish is both crisp and tart. | 87 | Piedmont | Roero | Cantina del Nebbiolo 2008 Roero | Nebbiolo | Cantina del Nebbiolo | ||||||
| 303 | Italy | Slightly disjointed at first, this Barolo with fruit sourced from four vineyard sites, needs a few minutes to open in the glass. The wine offers tertiary aromas of cured beef, smoked bacon and white mushroom. Drink now. | 4 Vigne | 87 | 56.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Cascina Adelaide 2005 4 Vigne (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Cascina Adelaide | ||||
| 304 | Italy | This aged expression from the Nizza subzone of Asti offers tertiary aromas of dried tobacco and dried prune. The variety's characteristic acidity kicks in on the finish. | Vignassa | 87 | Piedmont | Barbera d'Asti Superiore Nizza | Cascina La Ghersa 2004 Vignassa (Barbera d'Asti Superiore Nizza) | Barbera | Cascina La Ghersa | |||||
| 305 | US | Muted at first, this wine opens up nicely with time. Sweet, ripe and easy on the finish, its core is full of black pepper and clove. The grapes are sourced from several distinctive vineyards in Mendocino County. Drink it with a steak. | 87 | 24.0 | California | Mendocino County | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Claudia Springs 2007 Zinfandel (Mendocino County) | Zinfandel | Claudia Springs | |||
| 306 | Romania | Fragrant on the nose with fresh orange, lemon and honeysuckle aromas, this full-bodied Chard is deliciously quaffable with a concentrated apple palate and just a hint of buttered toast. Another well-made Romanian at an unbeatable bargain price. | 87 | 7.0 | Recas | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Cramele Recas 2009 Chardonnay (Recas) | Chardonnay | Cramele Recas | |||||
| 307 | France | Rich and full in the mouth, packed with red fruits and black cherries. The wine is sweet, while keeping a tannic core. Drink next year. | Les Dames Huguettes | 87 | 30.0 | Burgundy | Côte de Nuits-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Bertagna 2009 Les Dames Huguettes (Côte de Nuits-Villages) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Bertagna | ||
| 308 | Greece | This fuller-bodied white blend offers pineapple, kiwi and citrus on the nose, and a blend of full fruit and acidity on the palate. A balanced, easygoing white that is perfect for everyday poultry, vegetable and fish meals. | Asirtiko Athiri | 87 | 18.0 | Santorini | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Domaine Sigalas 2010 Asirtiko Athiri White (Santorini) | White Blend | Domaine Sigalas | |||
| 309 | Italy | Here's a fun and slightly less formal expression of Nebbiolo (especially when compared to the great wines of Barbaresco and Barolo) that offers tight fruit nuances of white cherry and forest berry backed by light shadings of spice and smoke. | 87 | 20.0 | Piedmont | Langhe | Socré 2006 Nebbiolo (Langhe) | Nebbiolo | Socré | |||||
| 310 | Italy | Aged 12 months in large oak casks, this bright Nebbiolo offers pretty aromas of small berry, tar, licorice and cigar smoke backed by tight intensity and structure. Pair this powerful wine with braised quail or pork tenderloin. | 87 | 18.0 | Piedmont | Langhe | Boffa 2006 Nebbiolo (Langhe) | Nebbiolo | Boffa | |||||
| 311 | New Zealand | This wine is light in color, but still packs a mouthful of flavor. It's peppery and meaty upfront, filled out on the midpalate by tart fruit that verges on cranberry in flavor. Pretty rather than potent; drink now-2014. | 87 | 18.0 | Hawke's Bay | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Otto's Constant Dream 2008 Syrah (Hawke's Bay) | Syrah | Otto's Constant Dream | ||||
| 312 | US | A good wine to drink now for its sweet, ripe berry and mocha flavors and smoky coat of oak. It has smooth tannins and a spicy finish. Give it a good decant to let it breathe for a few hours. | 87 | 40.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Mount Veeder 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Mount Veeder | ||||
| 313 | Italy | Roero Rabino is accented by sweet touches of cinnamon and nutmeg that are offset by cassis, dried blueberry, leather and tobacco. This sturdy red wine presents a very nice ensemble that is capped by a tight, astringent close. | 87 | Piedmont | Roero | Rabino 2008 Roero | Nebbiolo | Rabino | ||||||
| 314 | US | With rich, sweet blackberry and cocoa flavors, this is a very nice Cabernet for drinking with a good meal. It's a little rough around the edges, with jaggy tannins. Ready now. | 87 | 28.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Robert Mondavi 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Robert Mondavi | ||||
| 315 | Italy | Honey, almond blossom and citrus zest are followed by creamy foam and tonic acidity. This is an easygoing Prosecco that offers a light and compact structure and bright flavors of lime and green fruit. | Extra Dry | 86 | 15.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Bellussi NV Extra Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Bellussi | ||||
| 316 | France | An intriguing blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle, which highlights the herbaceous Sauvignon character and a more perfumed Muscadelle. The two give a fresh, citrus- and pineapple-flavored wine, lively, to be enjoyed young. | Les Amants Mont-Pérat | 86 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Mont-Pérat 2008 Les Amants Mont-Pérat (Bordeaux Blanc) | Bordeaux-style White Blend | Château Mont-Pérat | |||
| 317 | France | Soft, ripe, dominated by peaches, pears and a rounded, toasty character. The spice is dominant, giving the wine an exotic edge. The more rounded style gives concentration as well as a fine, finishing velvet texture. | 86 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Tour de Mirambeau 2006 Bordeaux Blanc | Bordeaux-style White Blend | Château Tour de Mirambeau | ||||
| 318 | Chile | Fiery and wild at first, with aromas of cinnamon, pepper and Juicy Fruit gum. Strange as that may sound, the wine finds a more familiar place on the palate, where plum, cherry and cassis flavors are flashy and the feel is a bit clangy. Rounds out with air and settles down fairly nicely. | Reserva | 86 | 18.0 | Curicó Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Aresti 2007 Reserva Merlot (Curicó Valley) | Merlot | Aresti | |||
| 319 | Italy | Paladin produces a luminous and fresh Prosecco from the northeast of Italy with tonic aromas of peach, white stone and citrus fruit. It's an easy-drinking wine that would wash down well with appetizers and informal finger foods. | Millesimato Brut | 86 | 20.0 | Veneto | Veneto | Paladin 2007 Millesimato Brut Prosecco (Veneto) | Prosecco | Paladin | ||||
| 320 | Italy | Soapy aromas of bee's wax and lavender open the nose of this luminous sparkler and are followed by dried flowers and hay. There are peach-like flavors with aftertastes of green melon and lime. Grapes are grown organically and according to biodynamic principles. | Col di Manza Extra Dry Millesimato | 86 | 22.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Perlage 2008 Col di Manza Extra Dry Millesimato (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Perlage | ||||
| 321 | Italy | This Brut interpretation of Prosecco (“Brut” means it tastes dry in the mouth) offers tangy fizz and soda-like intensity backed by subdued aromas of white mineral and stone fruit. Pair it with puff pastry appetizers. | Brut | 86 | 16.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Sant Eurosia 2007 Brut (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Sant Eurosia | ||||
| 322 | Italy | This is a “dry” vintage Prosecco with a hint of sweetness in the mouth that is surrounded by fragrant flavors of peach, kiwi and green melon. This luminous sparkler tastes firm and tonic and makes for an informal afternoon sipper. | Millesimato Dry | 86 | 18.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Sant Eurosia 2007 Millesimato Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Sant Eurosia | ||||
| 323 | Chile | Mildly minty and woody on the nose, with grass, wintergreen and cheese aromas as well as red fruit. The palate is tight and grabby, with a blast of citric acid that gives the plum and raspberry flavors a tart, decidedly “red” personality. Snappy and crisp on the finish, making it a fresh, lean style of Cabernet. | Gran Araucano | 86 | 35.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | J. & F. Lurton 2006 Gran Araucano Cabernet Sauvignon (Colchagua Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | J. & F. Lurton | |||
| 324 | Italy | The wine's golden hue tells you this is Prosecco from a warmer climate (Conegliano is a few degrees warmer than Valdobbiadene) as do its aromas of mature peach and honeysuckle. The wine tastes flat and big in the mouth and offers sophisticated notes of white pepper and spice. | Matiú Brut | 86 | 12.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Conegliano | L'Antica Quercia 2007 Matiú Brut (Prosecco di Conegliano) | Prosecco | L'Antica Quercia | ||||
| 325 | US | This white has a light, delicate nose of citrus and apricot. On the palate it's smooth and balanced with lush apricot and spice flavors. A touch of acidity gives the wine lift. A lingering finish adds to its poise. Pair with a creamy cheese or sip alone. | 86 | 11.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Lucas Vineyards 2007 Vignoles (Finger Lakes) | Vignoles | Lucas Vineyards | ||
| 326 | Italy | Drying mineral tones face off with luscious peach flavors to create a well-balanced Extra Dry Prosecco sparkler. The bubbly offers cheerful foaming in the mouth and sweet fruit flavors on the close. | Extra Dry | 86 | 15.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Marsuret NV Extra Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Marsuret | ||||
| 327 | Chile | Opening aromas of vanilla cookie show a resemblance to Animal Crackers, while the palate is more vivacious and tangy, with flavors of orange, tangerine and apple. We wouldn't call this an elegant or refined wine, but we like its no-issues attitude and citrusy content. Probably good with salads and seafood. | Legado Reserva | 86 | 18.0 | Limarí Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | De Martino 2007 Legado Reserva Chardonnay (Limarí Valley) | Chardonnay | De Martino | |||
| 328 | US | This New World blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Chardonnay and Viognier is very fruity. It offers a blast of pineapples, honeysuckles, peaches and figs, with a coating of oaky, vanilla buttercream. | Alluvium Blanc | 86 | 16.0 | California | Knights Valley | Sonoma | Beringer 2007 Alluvium Blanc White (Knights Valley) | White Blend | Beringer | |||
| 329 | US | With a fruity-sugary finish, this Zin will appeal to folks who like their red wines a little on the sweet side. It has pleasantly ripe flavors of black cherries, raspberries, red currants, root beer, mocha and pepper. | Reserve | 86 | 34.0 | California | Mendocino | Brutocao 2006 Reserve Zinfandel (Mendocino) | Zinfandel | Brutocao | ||||
| 330 | US | This Rhône-style blend is a little rustic and sharp in tannins and acids. It shows a polished core of jammy blackberries, cherries and spices, and could develop in a year or two. | Lila's Cuvée | 86 | 40.0 | California | Central Coast | Central Coast | Clos La Chance 2006 Lila's Cuvée Red (Central Coast) | Red Blend | Clos La Chance | |||
| 331 | Chile | Frosted aromas of orange creamsicle, lychee and melon give this an elevated, unique sort of bouquet. Among Chilean Gewürztraminers, this is one of the more expressive ones you'll find. Pineapple, mango and other tropical flavors are pleasant, while the feel is forward and fun. Drink this summer with fish and salads. | Visión | 86 | 15.0 | Casablanca Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cono Sur 2008 Visión Gewürztraminer (Casablanca Valley) | Gewürztraminer | Cono Sur | |||
| 332 | Italy | This Prosecco Brut from the slightly warmer Conegliano subzone is a perfect example of its kind. The luminous sparkler offers drying mineral tones that are embellished by pretty notes of white rose, honey, stone fruit and citrus. The mouthfeel is lean, smooth and fresh. | Palazzo Rosso Brut | 86 | 19.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Conegliano | Sommariva NV Palazzo Rosso Brut (Prosecco di Conegliano) | Prosecco | Sommariva | ||||
| 333 | Italy | This crisp sparkler is characterized by drying mineral tones and delicate aromas of stone fruit and citrus. The wine is foamy and slightly sweet in the mouth and does an excellent job of representing this category of Italian wine. | Col del Sas Extra Dry | 86 | 18.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Spagnol NV Col del Sas Extra Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Spagnol | ||||
| 334 | France | A ripe, fruity wine that takes its raspberry flavor from the color. The wine has softness, a creamy character that rounds out any acidity, leaving a smooth, fruity finish. | Mosaïque Rosé Brut | 86 | 42.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jacquart NV Mosaïque Rosé Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Jacquart | ||
| 335 | Italy | There's a unique note here of mature fruit, chopped basil or peppermint with a hint of spice or chopped white peppercorn. The bubbling seems less frothy and the wine has a flat, big feel in the mouth. Grapes were farmed organically and the wine is from the 2007 vintage, which may explain its distinctive style. | Arió Extra Dry | 86 | 15.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Conegliano | L'Antica Quercia 2007 Arió Extra Dry (Prosecco di Conegliano) | Prosecco | L'Antica Quercia | ||||
| 336 | Chile | Gritty, heavily roasted aromas of peanuts and herbal berry fruits lead to a scratchy, tannic palate. This tastes of burnt oak, raw plum and currant, while the finish tastes briny and harsh. The 2012 version of this wine was much better. This is rough from front to back. | Costa | 83 | 35.0 | Colchagua Costa | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Koyle 2015 Costa Pinot Noir (Colchagua Costa) | Pinot Noir | Koyle | |||
| 337 | France | An easy and inviting selection, there's a mentholated streak to the soft red currant and cherry core of this wine. Light and breezy on the palate, it offers thin, quickly dissipating flavors and a fleeting finish. | 83 | 16.0 | Languedoc-Roussillon | Languedoc | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Château Notre Dame du Quatourze 2015 Rosé (Languedoc) | Rosé | Château Notre Dame du Quatourze | |||
| 338 | France | The wine is earthy and somewhat rustic. There is fruit but it is spoiled by a spicy pepper edge. Chill this drastically. | 82 | 11.0 | Provence | Coteaux Varois en Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Mémoires 2015 Rosé (Coteaux Varois en Provence) | Rosé | Mémoires | |||
| 339 | Spain | Red in color, with berry and apple aromas, this is sweet, with a heavy body and light effervescence. | 1887 Rosado | 82 | 13.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cavas Hill NV 1887 Rosado Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | Cavas Hill | ||
| 340 | France | The nose is muted, despite the slight spritz of the wine, while the palate is equally toned down. It's a rounded if not very expressive white wine. | Tradition | 82 | 18.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Antoine Moltès & Fils 2015 Tradition Pinot Gris (Alsace) | Pinot Gris | Antoine Moltès & Fils | ||
| 341 | US | Plummy and hinting at black cherry, this wine is otherwise soft and simple, with a distracting, full-throttled descent into raisin cake and prune. | Serracino Reserve | 82 | 48.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Pezzi King 2013 Serracino Reserve Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley) | Zinfandel | Pezzi King | |
| 342 | Spain | Funky, yeasty aromas of cinnamon, spent lees and bread yeast dominate the nose. This feels foamy, with lightly vegetal flavors of apple that finish briny. | 82 | 11.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Bellisco NV Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | Bellisco | |||
| 343 | Chile | Jumpy on the nose at first, but then green tea and grassy aromas take over. This PN is what it is: it tastes grassy, leafy and like green beans. Vegetal notes carry over to the finish. | Grand Reserve | 81 | 20.0 | Rapel Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Pura 8 2010 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir (Rapel Valley) | Pinot Noir | Pura 8 | |||
| 344 | Chile | Aromas of pumpkin, squash and corn chips are stale and not inviting. There's an acceptable mouthfeel to this weird, unbalanced Chardonnay along with flavors of spiced squash, mealy apple and sautéed root vegetables. | Gran Reserva | 80 | 19.0 | Leyda Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Viña Tarapacá 2015 Gran Reserva Chardonnay (Leyda Valley) | Chardonnay | Viña Tarapacá | |||
| 345 | Australia | This wine contains some material over 100 years old, but shows no signs of fragility. Instead, it's concentrated through age and should hold in the bottle indefinitely. It's dark coffee-brown in color, with delectable aromas of rancio, dried fig, molasses and black tea, yet despite enormous concentration avoids excessive weight. And it's amazingly complex and fresh on the nearly endless finish. | Rare | 100 | 350.0 | Victoria | Rutherglen | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards NV Rare Muscat (Rutherglen) | Muscat | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards | ||
| 346 | Australia | This deep brown wine smells like a damp, mossy cave. Then add complex rancio notes, plus maple syrup and molasses. It's full, round and harmonious, wonderfully rich yet without any sense of heaviness and long and bright on the finish. | Rare | 98 | 350.0 | Victoria | Rutherglen | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards NV Rare Muscadelle (Rutherglen) | Muscadelle | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards | ||
| 347 | Germany | Dusty, saffron-spiced earthiness is juxtaposed against intense mango and tangerine fruitiness in this deeply complex wine. It's unctuously sweet, but balanced by a piercing streak of acidity that penetrates through the midpalate. Spry and silken, it finishes on a long lingering whisper of honey and peach. | Kiedrich Gräfenberg Trockenbeerenauslese | 97 | 775.0 | Rheingau | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Robert Weil 2014 Kiedrich Gräfenberg Trockenbeerenauslese Riesling (Rheingau) | Riesling | Robert Weil | ||||
| 348 | Australia | Deep mahogany. Dried fig and black tea on the nose, then concentrated mocha and molasses flavors, enlivened by candied orange zest. Full, rich and sweet, but surprisingly drinkable, with terrific intensity and length. | Grand | 97 | 100.0 | Victoria | Rutherglen | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards NV Grand Muscat (Rutherglen) | Muscat | Chambers Rosewood Vineyards | ||
| 349 | Australia | RunRig is always complex, and the 2012 doesn't disappoint in that regard, mixing bacony-meaty notes with hints of black olives and ripe plums. The tannins are supremely supple, but the acids are crisp, resulting in a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2030. | RunRig | 97 | 225.0 | South Australia | Barossa | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Torbreck 2012 RunRig Shiraz-Viognier (Barossa) | Shiraz-Viognier | Torbreck | ||
| 350 | Italy | After a few minutes in the glass, this stunning wine opens up to reveal classic Nebbiolo aromas of leather, tilled soil, underbrush, fragrant blue flower and ripe berry. The juicy concentrated palate dishes out layers of succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, anise and pipe tobacco framed in firm, velvety tannins. Drink 2022–2035. | Vignolo Riserva | 97 | 150.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Cavallotto 2010 Vignolo Riserva (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Cavallotto | ||
| 351 | Hungary | This amber-colored Hungarian stunner has ethereal aromas of raw honey, beeswax, freshly baked tarte Tatin, canned apricot and fresh pear. It is silky smooth and creamy in the mouth with pronounced flavors of clover honey, pear tart and baked sweet apples. The acidity is perfectly balanced so you can appreciate its velvety richness without feeling that the sweetness is too cloying. | Eszencia | 96 | 320.0 | Tokaji | Jeff Jenssen | @worldwineguys | Oremus 2005 Eszencia (Tokaji) | Furmint | Oremus | |||
| 352 | US | Citrus-kissed saltiness lies at the core of this incredibly delicious, deliriously crafted wine, from the great grape grower in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Beautifully crisp, it lingers in stony minerality and a freshness of apricot, memorable from first sip to last. | South River | 96 | 68.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Rochioli 2014 South River Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) | Chardonnay | Rochioli | |
| 353 | France | This beautiful, rich wine has yellow fruits and is concentrated, tightly textured and conveys a ripe character. The touches of wood are just right, adding spice to the opulent fruitiness. A mineral texture gives some tightness to the aftertaste. Drink from 2024. | Le Montrachet | 96 | 630.0 | Burgundy | Montrachet | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Louis Latour 2014 Le Montrachet (Montrachet) | Chardonnay | Louis Latour | ||
| 354 | Germany | Whiffs of white mushroom, saffron and caramel lend complexity to this concentrated elixir of apricots and orange peels. It's honeyed and sweet but vivaciously balanced, glazing the palate in ethereal textures of gossamer and tulle. The caramel finish lingers endlessly. | Kiedrich Gräfenberg Beerenauslese | 96 | 365.0 | Rheingau | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Robert Weil 2014 Kiedrich Gräfenberg Beerenauslese Riesling (Rheingau) | Riesling | Robert Weil | ||||
| 355 | US | A waft of smoky char and toasty oak provide a rich foundation and compelling entry into this one-acre vineyard-designate from the historic grower, before unleashing, slowly, a torrent of melon and fresh-cut apple with a length of intriguing nutmeg and cardamom. Medium-bodied and lush, it will remain on your palate memory a long time. | Sweetwater | 96 | 68.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Rochioli 2014 Sweetwater Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) | Chardonnay | Rochioli | |
| 356 | Australia | Dusty, firm, powerful: just a few apt descriptors for this vintage of one of Heathcote's top wines. Mocha, licorice and blackberries feature on the nose, while the palate delivers more of the same—dark fruit, chocolate and plenty of spice. Best after 2020. | Georgia's Paddock | 95 | 85.0 | Victoria | Heathcote | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Jasper Hill 2013 Georgia's Paddock Shiraz (Heathcote) | Shiraz | Jasper Hill | ||
| 357 | France | Produced from vines more than 100 years old in the heart of the Clos de Vougeot vineyard, this is an impressive wine with a long future. The wood aging is already surrounded by ripe, intense black fruits. A fresher character comes from the bright acidity of the vintage, giving the wine a lift. The aftertaste is long and concentrated. Drink from 2024. | Vieilles Vignes | 95 | 350.0 | Burgundy | Clos de Vougeot | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de la Tour 2013 Vieilles Vignes (Clos de Vougeot) | Pinot Noir | Château de la Tour | ||
| 358 | Germany | Intensely fragrant, this honey-sweet auslese wafts of ripe yellow peaches and caramelized sugar. Tropical mango, pineapple and melon collide on the palate before falling neatly in line against a strike of high-toned acidity. The finish is luxuriously long, peppered by a faint dusting of saffron. It's a stunner already but should shine brightly for decades to come. | Hattenheimer Hassel Auslese | 95 | 66.0 | Rheingau | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Weingut Hans Bausch 2011 Hattenheimer Hassel Auslese Riesling (Rheingau) | Riesling | Weingut Hans Bausch | ||||
| 359 | France | Up the slope above the Grand Cru of Le Montrachet, this vineyard once grew hemp (hence the name, cheneve). This poised wine is both stylish and rich, with good acidity allied to ripe apple and citrus fruits, cut through the mineral texture and promise a generous wine as it ages. Drink from 2020. | Les Chenevottes Premier Cru | 95 | 110.0 | Burgundy | Chassagne-Montrachet | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Philippe Colin 2014 Les Chenevottes Premier Cru (Chassagne-Montrachet) | Chardonnay | Philippe Colin | ||
| 360 | Australia | Bacon and tapenade elements merge easily on the nose, followed by a wine that's full bodied and creamy textured on the palate. This is dark and meaty in profile, yet not heavy or cooked, with a long, harmonious finish. Drink now–2030. | Descendant | 95 | 125.0 | South Australia | Barossa Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Torbreck 2012 Descendant Shiraz-Viognier (Barossa Valley) | Shiraz-Viognier | Torbreck | ||
| 361 | Italy | Enticing scents of ripe berry, underbrush, grilled herb and eucalyptus mingle together along with an underlying fragrance of rose petal. Elegant and fresh, the impeccably balanced palate delivers tart red cherry, cake spice, white pepper and mineral nuances alongside polished tannins. Drink 2018–2028. | Simposio | 95 | 60.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Bel Colle 2012 Simposio (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Bel Colle | ||
| 362 | US | As impressive as the woman—a pioneer in the Napa Valley—was herself, this 100% varietal wine from the estate property high atop Diamond Mountain is powerfully elegant, intense yet refined. It begins with a high-toned, graceful entry that's rich in blueberry and chocolate, the oak smooth and integrated, with a suggestion of hand-rolled tobacco. Drink now through 2022. | Jamie | 95 | 200.0 | California | Diamond Mountain District | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | J. Davies 2012 Jamie Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain District) | Cabernet Sauvignon | J. Davies | |
| 363 | France | This is an opulent wine from one of the fabled series of white Grand Crus. Along with generous yellow fruits and ripe citrus, it has weight and gravitas. Spice from the wood fills things out even more, giving the wine its balance, its intensity and its future. Drink from 2022. | 95 | 380.0 | Burgundy | Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Louis Latour 2014 Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet | Chardonnay | Louis Latour | |||
| 364 | US | For 2014, the Weber is the star of a very fine Winderlea lineup. Dark and deeply concentrated, it's jammed with black cherry fruit, annotated with anise and showing a hint of gunmetal. The tannins are ripe and taste of clean earth. This is a fine candidate for aging. Drink now through 2030. | Weber Vineyard | 95 | 48.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Winderlea 2014 Weber Vineyard Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Noir | Winderlea | |
| 365 | Australia | The Taylor family selected Clare Valley for its Cabernet affinity, but this Shiraz is a knockout. Yes, it's oaky—full of menthol, vanilla and toasted coconut—but there's just enough black cherry and plum fruit to support the wood. It's a plush, full-bodied wine with immense appeal, for drinking now–2025. | St. Andrews Single Vineyard Release | 95 | 60.0 | South Australia | Clare Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Wakefield 2013 St. Andrews Single Vineyard Release Shiraz (Clare Valley) | Shiraz | Wakefield | ||
| 366 | Italy | This spends 12 months in oak and it shows: It offers aromas of liquid smoke and flavors of brown sugar, honey and caramel. The fruit is subdued, leaving the emphasis on the oak and mineral components. Try with rich but delicately flavored fish dishes or mild chèvres. | Vorberg | 88 | 21.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Cantina Terlano 2000 Vorberg Pinot Bianco (Alto Adige) | Pinot Bianco | Cantina Terlano | ||
| 367 | Chile | Aromas of mint, berry syrup and dense, lemony oak lay a good foundation for the heavy black fruit that comes on the palate atop a plush carpet of toasty, fresh-grained wood. The finish is round, tasty and mouthfilling, while overall the wine seems to dance due to popping acidity. This is Carmenère with a vital streak. | Reserva de la Familia | 88 | 10.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | De Martino 1999 Reserva de la Familia Carmenère (Maipo Valley) | Carmenère | De Martino | |||
| 368 | Italy | A plump, juicy mouthful of citrusy fruit, worth trying with grilled or broiled seafood. The zesty lime aromas broaden out on the palate to include orange and tangerine flavors, making it tart but not too tart. Best Buy. | 88 | 11.0 | Veneto | Bianco di Custoza | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Montresor 2001 Bianco di Custoza | Garganega | Montresor | |||
| 369 | Italy | This medium-weight wine flows effortlessly from start to finish, blending aromas of smoke and nuts with a citrusy core. Picks up savory nutty, cheesy notes (like a good Gruyère) on the long finish. | 88 | 21.0 | Northeastern Italy | Friuli | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Ronco del Gelso 1999 Chardonnay (Friuli) | Chardonnay | Ronco del Gelso | |||
| 370 | US | Mint again, with earth and tobacco; one taster found traces of bell pepper. Coffee and brown sugar further soften a supple, mature mouthfeel. Drink now. | Cherryblock Vineyard | 88 | 160.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Sebastiani 1991 Cherryblock Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Sebastiani | |||
| 371 | Italy | Fragrant, aromatic, grassy aromas give way to fresh, crisp, green fruit and gooseberry flavors. Finishes lively and vibrant. | Castel Ringberg | 88 | 23.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Elena Walch 2002 Castel Ringberg Sauvignon Blanc (Alto Adige) | Sauvignon Blanc | Elena Walch | ||
| 372 | Italy | A fresh, crisp style of Soave, brimming with green plum and light acidity. It has concentration and a light touch in equal measure. | Classico | 88 | 10.0 | Veneto | Soave | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Gini 2002 Classico (Soave) | White Blend | Gini | ||
| 373 | Italy | Crisp, green, grassy wine with fresh acidity and herbeceous character. It is very New World with its tropical flavors and open, forward fruit. | I Fiori del Borgo | 88 | 15.0 | Northeastern Italy | Collio | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Borgo Conventi 2002 I Fiori del Borgo Sauvignon Blanc (Collio) | Sauvignon Blanc | Borgo Conventi | ||
| 374 | US | An irresistibly drinkable white wine, filled with the juiciest flavors of citrus fruits, fig, melon and peach, and just the tiniest bit sweet. Crisp acidity cleanses the palate and leaves it feeling minty fresh on the long, spicy finish. | Kathleen's Vineyard | 88 | 19.0 | California | Mendocino County | Ceago Vinegarden 2001 Kathleen's Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (Mendocino County) | Sauvignon Blanc | Ceago Vinegarden | ||||
| 375 | Italy | A soft, ripe wine that manages to showcase tobacco, earth and black cherry flavors in a relatively lightweight format, finishing long and tart. | Vino in Musica | 88 | 40.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Valiano 1997 Vino in Musica Sangiovese (Toscana) | Sangiovese | Valiano | ||||
| 376 | Italy | A well-judged, well-structured wine that balances fresh, crisp and light fruit against flavors of peaches, almonds and cinnamon. It will be better in two or three years' time. | Zuc de Volpe | 88 | 18.0 | Northeastern Italy | Colli Orientali del Friuli | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Volpe Pasini 2002 Zuc de Volpe Pinot Grigio (Colli Orientali del Friuli) | Pinot Grigio | Volpe Pasini | ||
| 377 | Greece | A fresh, tangy, vibrant wine that has ripe green plum and apple flavors alongside a layer of full, forward fruit. | Vigneto Massoni | 88 | Naoussa | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Zenato 2001 Vigneto Massoni White (Naoussa) | White Blend | Zenato | ||||
| 378 | Mexico | The color is appropriately light, the aromas appropriately floral and rose-like. Fleshy cherry flavors are balanced by a helping of greens and flowers. Light and elegant. Who would've thought Nebbiolo like this could come from Mexico? | Private Reserve | 88 | 18.0 | Valle de Guadalupe | L.A. Cetto 1996 Private Reserve Nebbiolo (Valle de Guadalupe) | Nebbiolo | L.A. Cetto | |||||
| 379 | Italy | This blend of Chardonnay, Nosiola and Pinot Bianco offers up apples and cream on the nose, along with flavors of peach and citrus. It's a comfortable mix of fruit that finishes lively and fresh, making it a fine apéritif. | Bianco dei Sorni | 88 | 15.0 | Northeastern Italy | Trentino | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | La Vis 2001 Bianco dei Sorni White (Trentino) | White Blend | La Vis | ||
| 380 | Chile | At first this is aggressive, with an aromatic note of wet dog along with blueberries. But soon it finds its legs and opens to display chocolate, espresso and a big batch of black plum and blackberry. The finish has full tannins and some coffee-like flavor. Currently it's wall-to-wall big, but it should settle down in no time and become a good red to drink on any occasion. | Estate Bottled | 88 | 12.0 | Rapel Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Lapostolle 2002 Estate Bottled Merlot (Rapel Valley) | Merlot | Lapostolle | |||
| 381 | Italy | It's testament to this wine's balance that it remains so alive and fresh long after many other Biancos have faded. Intensely mineral aromas mix with notes of smoke and fresh apples; the flavors are earthy and hint at mineral oil. Long on the finish. Best Buy. | Vigne Alte | 88 | 11.0 | Veneto | Bianco di Custoza | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Fratelli Zeni 2000 Vigne Alte (Bianco di Custoza) | White Blend | Fratelli Zeni | ||
| 382 | Chile | With its herbal, traditional aromas, this New World Cabernet could impersonate and Old World model. The palate is tight and firm, with lively tannins and bracing acids. The flavors run toward plum and chocolate, and there's a bitter hint on the back palate. The finish is plummy and dark. | Estate Grown Reserve | 88 | 15.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Carmen 2000 Estate Grown Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Carmen | |||
| 383 | Italy | This lovely Chardonnay has just the right blend of juicy peaches and subtle herbs and flowers to make it easy to drink, yet interesting enough to hold your attention. Finishes long and mouthwatering. | Vigneto Santa Cecilia | 88 | 9.0 | Veneto | Valdadige | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Tommasi 2001 Vigneto Santa Cecilia Chardonnay (Valdadige) | Chardonnay | Tommasi | ||
| 384 | Italy | Aromas of roses, pepper and spices make this an enticing wine. On the palate, it is ripe, soft, full-bodied and rich, lacking acidity, but otherwise classic Gewürztraminer. | Sanct Valentin | 88 | 30.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Roger Voss | @vossroger | San Michele Eppan 2002 Sanct Valentin Gewürztraminer (Alto Adige) | Gewürztraminer | San Michele Eppan | ||
| 385 | US | Richly textured, viscous but with good acidty for balance. The wine shows pretty melon, citrus, herb, grass, peach and spice flavors and features a mineral edge that is fresh and clean at the end. | 88 | 18.0 | California | Rutherford | Napa | Vinoce 2001 Sauvignon Blanc (Rutherford) | Sauvignon Blanc | Vinoce | ||||
| 386 | US | A first-rate wine, with well-ripened flavors of blackberries, espresso, cola, tea, and bitter chocolate, but made more interesting by fresh acidity not often seen in today's better Merlots. This cool-climate wine also has sturdy tannins that suggest mid-term aging. | Windacre Vineyard | 88 | 34.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Merriam 2000 Windacre Vineyard Merlot (Russian River Valley) | Merlot | Merriam | |||
| 387 | US | A great and versatile food wine. Its polished flavors of lime, fig and apricot are drizzled with Oriental spices and smoky oak. One of California's most consistent wines, and rich enough to stand in for Chardonnay. | Reserve Fume | 88 | 17.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Murphy-Goode 2000 Reserve Fume Sauvignon Blanc (Alexander Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Murphy-Goode | |||
| 388 | US | Delicate and complex, a cool climate wine with a mixture of ripe cherry flavors and leaner ones of tobacco, tomato skin, and cranberry. Bone dry with excellent acidity, this somewhat tart wine is well made, and may be an ager. | Paragon Vineyard | 88 | 25.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Kynsi 1999 Paragon Vineyard Pinot Noir (Edna Valley) | Pinot Noir | Kynsi | |
| 389 | Italy | A blend of grapes, so maybe it is not surprising that the aromas and flavors are a blend: melons, pears and limes, all presented with great freshness and verve alongside a rich texture. Editors' Choice. | Terlano Classico | 88 | 15.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Cantina Terlano 2002 Terlano Classico White (Alto Adige) | White Blend | Cantina Terlano | ||
| 390 | Chile | Right off the bat this wine is pure and smooth. The nose is pretty, with cranberry and cassis. Next up is a palate of pure red fruit and only a light shading of oak. The finish draws applause for its clarity and buttery nuances. It's what a good Chilean Cabernet should be; it's ripe and easy to drink, yet fairly solid and impressive. Best Buy. | Reserve | 88 | 12.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Casa Julia 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Casa Julia | |||
| 391 | Chile | With full oak and pineapple aromas along with a big mouthful of spicy apple and pear fruit, this is no weakling. On the contrary, it's full and meaty, with a lot of texture and extract. The feel is healthy even if the acidity is on the low side. A very good wine to drink now; it probably won't age that well. | Reserve | 88 | 14.0 | Central Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Valdivieso 2001 Reserve Chardonnay (Central Valley) | Chardonnay | Valdivieso | |||
| 392 | US | A lovely wine, made even more attractive by the value price. It has flavors and lemons and limes and a ripe, sweet edge of honey, although it's technically dry. The acidity is clean and refreshing. | 87 | 12.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Bridlewood 2000 Sauvignon Blanc (Santa Ynez Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Bridlewood | ||||
| 393 | Chile | Strongly oaked, but fresh, young and healthy in the nose. The smell of coconut and lemon curd is friendly and soft, while the palate is loaded with more lemon, coconut, pear and nutmeg. The texture is rich, and, for now, the acidity is bright. A solid Chardonnay for current drinking. | Castillo de Molina Reserva | 87 | 11.0 | Lontué Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | San Pedro 2002 Castillo de Molina Reserva Chardonnay (Lontué Valley) | Chardonnay | San Pedro | |||
| 394 | Chile | Smooth smelling, with pure and fresh berry and plum aromas. Very young and a bit tangy on the palate, with cherry and berry flavors and an oaky, soft finish that goes sweet then sour, and lasts for a long time. In terms of structure, it's balanced, mildly tannic, yet meant for drinking now. | Reserva | 87 | 12.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Undurraga 2001 Reserva Merlot (Maipo Valley) | Merlot | Undurraga | |||
| 395 | Italy | This is the first vintage of this blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc, named after the 16th-century abbess Rylint Formentini. Peppery in character, with rich, complex fruit, it has citric flavors, along with a sense of structure and acidity. | Rylint | 87 | Northeastern Italy | Collio | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Conti Formentini 2001 Rylint White (Collio) | White Blend | Conti Formentini | |||
| 396 | US | Rich in spicy, briary berry-cherry and chocolate fruit, with ultra-smooth tannins, and just enough acidity to cut through barbecue sauce. It's a bit sweet and Porty on its own. | Ancient Vines | 85 | 16.0 | California | California | California Other | Cline 2007 Ancient Vines Zinfandel (California) | Zinfandel | Cline | |||
| 397 | Chile | Fresh aromas of red cherry and light berry fruit precede a palate that runs a little racy, with borderline tart plum and pie cherry flavors. A solid mouthfeel and mild, chalky tannins give it presence, and for sure it's a clean, sturdy wine. But that's really as far as it goes. | Visión | 85 | 15.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cono Sur 2008 Visión Pinot Noir (Colchagua Valley) | Pinot Noir | Cono Sur | |||
| 398 | Chile | On the plump but balanced side, with a perfumed nose that's almost sweet for SB. In the mouth, it's fairly lively and lifted, with nectarine and melon flavors that morph into pink grapefruit on the finish. Decent quality; will get the job done. | Estate Selection | 85 | 13.0 | Curicó Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Aresti 2008 Estate Selection Sauvignon Blanc (Curicó Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Aresti | |||
| 399 | Italy | The wine starts off slowly due to a note of almond nut or cardboard that masks the natural fruit. Once it gets started, however, this luminous sparkling Prosecco offers cheerful notes of stone fruit and pear. | Extra Dry | 85 | 24.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Astoria 2008 Extra Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Astoria | ||||
| 400 | Italy | Tonic and lean with a nearly transparent color and lively perlage, this non-DOC Prosecco offers candy-like aromas of butterscotch and lemon soda. There's an interesting touch of crushed white peppercorn in there as well and this well-priced wine would make a perfect match to appetizers and finger foods. | Brut | 85 | 13.0 | Italy Other | Italy | Cantine Maschio NV Brut Prosecco (Italy) | Prosecco | Cantine Maschio | ||||
| 401 | Italy | This Extra Dry (slightly sweet) vintage Prosecco delivers a lean, slightly watery style and piquant bubbles that recall lemon soda. The wine is firm and steely in the mouth with tonic bubbling and layers of fresh fruit on the close. | Millesimato Extra Dry | 85 | 19.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Val d'Oca 2008 Millesimato Extra Dry (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Val d'Oca | ||||
| 402 | Chile | Formerly doing business as “Shiraz,” this Syrah from Bisquertt offers a huge purple tint, roasted aromas of blackberry and campfire, and a ripe, grapey palate that brims with simple, racy black cherry, pepper and other driving flavors. Not timid by any means but also nothing out of the ordinary. | Casa la Joya Reserve | 85 | 11.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Viña Bisquertt 2007 Casa la Joya Reserve Syrah (Colchagua Valley) | Syrah | Viña Bisquertt | |||
| 403 | US | Dry and acidic, this light-bodied wine has tart flavors of mashed cherries, cherryskins, orange zest and citrus fruits. It's a Bordeaux blend with Zinfandel and Sangiovese. Nice with pizza with prosciutto and olives. | Le Bon Viveur | 85 | 15.0 | California | California | California Other | Vinavanti 2005 Le Bon Viveur Red (California) | Red Blend | Vinavanti | |||
| 404 | US | Smells funky, with sweaty leather aromas, although you'll also find varietal notes of the grape. Tastes all right, with blackberries, currants, leather and mocha that are wrapped into firm tannins. | White Hawk Vineyard | 85 | 45.0 | California | Santa Barbara County | Central Coast | Vino V 2005 White Hawk Vineyard Syrah (Santa Barbara County) | Syrah | Vino V | |||
| 405 | Italy | Citrus tones, peach, white flower and mineral notes come forward thanks to the wine's bright personality and zesty effervescence. There are soft notes of crushed pepper and loads of sweet stone fruit flavors to enjoy as well. | Extra Dry | 85 | 19.0 | Veneto | Prosecco del Veneto | Viticoltori Ponte NV Extra Dry (Prosecco del Veneto) | Prosecco | Viticoltori Ponte | ||||
| 406 | France | A creamy, caramel- and pear-flavored wine, keeping freshness but enriched with an almond and custard tart finish. | Brut Mosaïque | 85 | 30.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jacquart NV Brut Mosaïque (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Jacquart | ||
| 407 | Chile | Aromas of baked apple, nut oil and toast are mildly appealing, while the round, dry palate is home to flavors of melon and bitter pith. The finish of peach pit and citrus peel is par for the course, and overall it's time to get at this standard Chardonnay before it goes flaccid. | Casa | 85 | 14.0 | Casablanca Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Lapostolle 2007 Casa Chardonnay (Casablanca Valley) | Chardonnay | Lapostolle | |||
| 408 | Italy | This Prosecco delivers medium intensity and a compact, slightly watery mouthfeel followed by lime, kiwi, white flower, honey and chopped basil. The cheerful sparkler ends with creamy consistency thanks to the foamy quality of its effervescence. | Millesimato Extra Dry | 85 | 15.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene | Le Vigne di Alice 2008 Millesimato Extra Dry (Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Le Vigne di Alice | ||||
| 409 | US | Fresh and delicate with floral and citrus overtones, this wine has an elegant character. Its dry, spicy flavors are subtle and refreshing, giving the wine food pairing flexibility. Ideally, though, think of spicy cuisine like Indian, Thai or Indonesian. | Dry | 85 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | McGregor 2007 Dry Gewürztraminer (Finger Lakes) | Gewürztraminer | McGregor | |
| 410 | US | An elegant nose of violet and blackberry gives this Cab Franc a graceful start. On the palate, soft cherry and blackberry flavors are punctuated by spice and pepper. An interesting sip that will pair well with fowl, beef. | 85 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Miles 2006 Cabernet Franc (Finger Lakes) | Cabernet Franc | Miles | ||
| 411 | US | A nice Cabernet for this everyday price. Dry and smooth, it shows interesting flavors of black currants, plums, herbs and spice, with a touch of smoky oak. | Split Oak Vineyard | 85 | 12.0 | California | California | California Other | Morro Bay 2006 Split Oak Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (California) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Morro Bay | |||
| 412 | Italy | Canah Brut Prosecco exhibits a slightly more saturated golden color and intense notes of mature peach, dried apricot with delicate mineral tones in the background. This rich sparkler is fatter and denser than most Proseccos and boasts an attractively low price tag. | Canah Brut | 85 | 20.0 | Veneto | Prosecco di Valdobbiadene | Perlage 2008 Canah Brut (Prosecco di Valdobbiadene) | Prosecco | Perlage | ||||
| 413 | Italy | Here's an organically grown Prosecco with citrusy notes of lime and grapefruit backed by white mineral and orange blossom. The wine is firm and slightly sweet on the finish and offers an easy, no-fuss experience overall. | 85 | 13.0 | Veneto | Prosecco del Veneto | Pizzolato 2007 Prosecco del Veneto | Prosecco | Pizzolato | |||||
| 414 | Italy | Here's a Prosecco with a broad and far-reaching aspect to its aromatic profile that recalls roasted almonds, mature peach and yellow rose. There's a pungent note in there as well of ash or talc powder and the sparkler ends with a playful blast of piquant spice. | Stefany Extra Dry | 85 | 16.0 | Veneto | Prosecco del Veneto | Pizzolato NV Stefany Extra Dry (Prosecco del Veneto) | Prosecco | Pizzolato | ||||
| 415 | US | Citrus and spice overtones dominate the nose of this elegant Riesling. On the palate, slightly sweet fruit flavors are balanced by mineral and spice. Pair with grilled seafood, salads and cheeses. | 85 | 14.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Red Newt Cellars 2007 Riesling (Finger Lakes) | Riesling | Red Newt Cellars | ||
| 416 | Italy | This is an easy-going Prosecco with lively tones of stone fruit and citrus. The wine is informal and tonic which makes it perfect as an appetizer wine or with friends on a lazy summer afternoon. | Extra Dry | 85 | 14.0 | Veneto | Prosecco del Veneto | Ca'Tullio NV Extra Dry (Prosecco del Veneto) | Prosecco | Ca'Tullio | ||||
| 417 | Italy | This is a sweet style of Prosecco with a luminous appearance and grassy-herbal notes followed by white peach, honey and jasmine. More herbal flavors appear on the close and the wine is fresh and simple in the mouth. | 85 | Veneto | Prosecco del Veneto | Pizzolato NV Prosecco del Veneto | Prosecco | Pizzolato | ||||||
| 418 | Austria | Using many biodynamic practices, Werner Michlits has crafted a rich, sweet and juicy wine, full of intense fruit, touched by spice, but more to do with black plum, fresh figs and vivid acidity. This is a hearty wine, ready to drink, its final tannins soft. Screwcap. | Biokult Zweigelt Pinot Noir | 85 | Burgenland | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Michlits 2007 Biokult Zweigelt Pinot Noir Red (Burgenland) | Red Blend | Michlits | ||||
| 419 | France | A smooth, perfumed wine that has softened just in time for its fifth year. It has black-currant and berry fruits that are ripe while still showing fresh acidity. The tannic structure is there, well integrated into the polished structure. Drinkable now. | 89 | 20.0 | Bordeaux | Graves | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de Callac 2011 Graves | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château de Callac | |||
| 420 | France | This is the first of 15 estates the Gonfrier family owns throughout Bordeaux. There are strong wood influences here, although the fruit is enough to match up. So ripe pear and apricot flavors go with those toasty characters to give a rich, full-bodied wine. It will be better from late 2016. | 89 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de Marsan 2015 Bordeaux Blanc | Bordeaux-style White Blend | Château de Marsan | ||||
| 421 | US | All varietal, this wine is a blend of fruit from top sites Ciel du Cheval, Conner Lee, Obelisco and Stonetree. The aromas are quite reserved, with notes of barrel spice that are followed by full-bodied fruit flavors with a spicy finish. It drinks well but the variety seems lost. | Confidential Source | 89 | 30.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Guardian 2013 Confidential Source Merlot (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Merlot | Guardian | |
| 422 | US | The light aromas suggest notes of star fruit and citrus. The palate is flavorful, with racy acids keeping the fruit in focus. | Blue Mountain Vineyard | 89 | 20.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Kerloo 2015 Blue Mountain Vineyard Grenache Blanc (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Grenache Blanc | Kerloo | |
| 423 | Austria | There is a savory, fragrant, mossy greenness that draws you in. On the concentrated palate, this becomes more distinct as the peel of Bosc pear and crushed arugula emerge. Lime zestiness comes with a slightly warm finish. | Kittl | 89 | 23.0 | Weinviertel | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Kohl 2015 Kittl Grüner Veltliner (Weinviertel) | Grüner Veltliner | Kohl | |||
| 424 | US | This wine is dry and rather full bodied, starting with fruity aromas like banana and coconut then seguing to more nutty, oaky, complex flavors and a rich texture. It's a serious dinner wine with heft and substance. | Verdigris | 89 | 30.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Las Positas 2014 Verdigris White (California) | White Blend | Las Positas | |
| 425 | US | Blossom and berry notes are accented by hints of smoked nut in this refreshingly light-bodied wine. Zesty and lithe on the palate, it's an ideal summer-to-fall apéritif or porch sipper. The moderately long finish is marked with a hint of waxy florals. | Bridge Lane | 89 | 18.0 | New York | New York | New York Other | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Lieb 2015 Bridge Lane Rosé (New York) | Rosé | Lieb | ||
| 426 | Spain | Slightly foxy on the nose, with rubbery aromas of cherry and cassis, this offers a tight, tannic palate with hard, elastic tannins. Flavors of cherry and cassis are pleasant, while the finish is ripe, warming and healthy. | Seis | 89 | 18.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Luberri 2011 Seis (Rioja) | Tempranillo | Luberri | ||
| 427 | US | A touch blossomy against a core of ripe raspberry and cherry perfume, the nose on this traditional-method Pinot Noir sparkler is particularly alluring. The palate is elegant and fresh, marked by fine, mouthfilling mousse and delicate raspberry-candy finish. | Cuvée Gabriella Brut Rosé | 89 | 35.0 | New York | North Fork of Long Island | Long Island | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Macari 2010 Cuvée Gabriella Brut Rosé Sparkling (North Fork of Long Island) | Sparkling Blend | Macari | ||
| 428 | Austria | An earthy hint colors the pear notes which on the palate acquire a fresh, almost floral quality. The earthy tone of yeast and miso provides a counterpoint to the zesty, lime-peel freshness. The finish is clean-cut and very refreshing. | Crazy Creatures | 89 | 17.0 | Kremstal | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Malat 2015 Crazy Creatures Grüner Veltliner (Kremstal) | Grüner Veltliner | Malat | |||
| 429 | US | Aromas of coffee, barrel spice and dark-blue fruit lead to rich, full-bodied blackberry and spice flavors. It's not for the faint of heart but delivers a lot of enjoyment. | The Estates Clifton Hill Vineyard | 89 | 42.0 | Washington | Wahluke Slope | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Milbrandt 2013 The Estates Clifton Hill Vineyard Syrah (Wahluke Slope) | Syrah | Milbrandt | |
| 430 | US | Yellow pear, fresh-squeezed lime, light mint and wet-cement aromas show on the brisk nose of this bottling by veteran Adam Tolmach. A grippy texture and lively acidity frame the palate, where green apple and lime flavors show. It's clean, pure and easy. | McGinley Vineyard | 89 | 30.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Ojai 2014 McGinley Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (Santa Ynez Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Ojai | |
| 431 | US | This Tempranillo-based pinkie is quite inviting and tightly textured, with aromas of orange shave ice, strawberry cream, watermelon and cement. It is extremely zesty and lively once sipped, offering easy-to-drink raspberry and melon notes. It's great for all sorts of food, from spicy to rich. | Indie | 89 | 24.0 | California | Templeton Gap District | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | ONX 2015 Indie Tempranillo (Templeton Gap District) | Tempranillo | ONX | |
| 432 | US | The aromas of whole lime, flowers, jasmine and watermelon Jolly Rancher pop. It drinks off dry, with floral flavors that carry through the finish. | Upland Vineyard | 89 | 16.0 | Washington | Snipes Mountain | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Pomum 2014 Upland Vineyard Riesling (Snipes Mountain) | Riesling | Pomum | |
| 433 | US | Smoky aromas and a bold apricot flavor give this dry and seemingly light-bodied wine a distinct personality. Fermented in small concrete egg-shaped vats, it's far from simple and fruity, and instead offers great acidity and a tangy, tempting, appetizing personality. | Stepping Stones | 89 | 27.0 | California | Santa Barbara County | Central Coast | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Prospect 772 2014 Stepping Stones Grenache Blanc (Santa Barbara County) | Grenache Blanc | Prospect 772 | |
| 434 | Italy | Coffee, toasted oak, coconut and raspberry confiture aromas lead the way. On the dense palate, dark chocolate, oak and licorice accent fleshy black cherry while fine-grained tannins provide support. | Rocche dell'Annunziata | 89 | 89.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Revello Fratelli 2012 Rocche dell'Annunziata (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Revello Fratelli | ||
| 435 | Austria | Creamy notes pear crumble make for a most attractive nose. The palate follows with gentle softness and concentration, supported by bright, fresh acidity. The creamy notes continue alongside notes of green and red apple and fresh pear. There is a lot of substance and body, so have this alongside a meal, the finish is superclean. | Lage Modler | 89 | Thermenregion | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Gebeshuber 2015 Lage Modler Zierfandler (Thermenregion) | Zierfandler | Gebeshuber | ||||
| 436 | Italy | Aromas of apricot and white spring flower lift out of the glass. The apricot note follows through to the palate, along with yellow peach, honeydew melon and almond, all framed in bright acidity. This one closes on a flinty note. | Gold Label | 89 | 15.0 | Piedmont | Gavi | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tenuta La Marchesa 2015 Gold Label (Gavi) | Cortese | Tenuta La Marchesa | ||
| 437 | US | Blended from all five Bordeaux varieties, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot almost equal in proportion, this is a lovely, well-crafted wine, softly concentrated with highlights of licorice, lavender, violets and black pepper. From three ranches farmed by the family, it's both seamless and structured. | Henry's Blend | 89 | 54.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Trione 2012 Henry's Blend Red (Alexander Valley) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Trione | |
| 438 | Spain | Fresh, focused and tight on the nose, with an undertone of mild oak and earth, this gets going with ease. A fresh, fruity palate is just rugged enough, while flavors of black plum, cherry, licorice and herbs finish toasty, spicy and firm. | Século | 89 | 15.0 | Northern Spain | Bierzo | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Vinos de Arganza 2012 Século Mencía (Bierzo) | Mencía | Vinos de Arganza | ||
| 439 | Spain | Leathery berry and savory, smoky oak aromas are a rugged introduction to a stout palate with juicy acidity. Flavors of baked plum, hard spices, salt and savory herbs finish with rubbery tannins, energy and spicy, peppery flavors. | Marqués de Montejos Selección | 89 | 42.0 | Northern Spain | Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Vinos de Arganza 2013 Marqués de Montejos Selección Mencía (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León) | Mencía | Vinos de Arganza | ||
| 440 | US | This wine is a blend of fruit from five different vineyards scattered across the valley. The aromas of barrel spice, black cherry, dried leaves, herbs and flowers still seem quite locked up. The flavors are generous and full with palate coating milk chocolate and cherry flavors with a finish that lingers. | 89 | 38.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Walla Walla Vintners 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Walla Walla Vintners | ||
| 441 | Austria | Tender notes of red apple skin and bottled strawberries are pulled into focus by zesty citrus. The bone-dry palate reveals more bottled but wonderfully tart strawberry flavors and finishes in a very linear, refreshing and light-footed fashion. | Rosé | 89 | 12.0 | Niederösterreich | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Winzer Krems 2015 Rosé Zweigelt (Niederösterreich) | Zweigelt | Winzer Krems | |||
| 442 | US | Voluptuous blackberry and plum flavors are edged by hints of bitter coffee and spice in this richly bodied wine. Fringed by a bare feather of tannins, it's luscious in mouthfeel, with an unctuousness that persists luxuriously on the palate. | Caya | 89 | 35.0 | New York | Long Island | Long Island | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Wölffer 2013 Caya Cabernet Franc (Long Island) | Cabernet Franc | Wölffer | ||
| 443 | US | Berry crumble and licorice star in this full-bodied, hearty and smooth wine, blended with 4% Petite Sirah. Spicy oak and milk chocolate unleash further flavor and spice on the finish. | Estate Grown | 88 | 32.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Dunbar 2012 Estate Grown Zinfandel (Sonoma Valley) | Zinfandel | Dunbar | |
| 444 | Austria | Earthy, savory notes of yeast and miso swing alongside the green pear flavors. There is spice and concentration on the midpalate and some tingling pepper spice. | Altweingarten | 88 | 12.0 | Wagram | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Eschenhof Holzer 2015 Altweingarten Grüner Veltliner (Wagram) | Grüner Veltliner | Eschenhof Holzer | |||
| 445 | Italy | Vibrant and savory, this has aromas of red berry, blue flower and a whiff of baking spice. The bright palate doles out red cherry, juicy strawberry, and star anise alongside bright acidity that gives it a crisp finish. | Vigorosa Rosato | 88 | 28.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Fattorie Romeo del Castello 2015 Vigorosa Rosato Nerello Mascalese (Etna) | Nerello Mascalese | Fattorie Romeo del Castello | ||
| 446 | US | Fresh blueberry and grape aromas meet with black plum, asphalt and turned earth on the nose of this bottling by Steve Dooley of Stephen Ross Cellars. Fresh blackberry juice, black pepper and dill show on the palate that is coated with decent acidity and a good tannic structure. | 88 | 20.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Flying Cloud 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Flying Cloud | ||
| 447 | France | The wine is initially soft with melon and ripe pear fruit. Behind this fruity exterior, there is a crisper citrus character that is bright and light. It's a ripe wine, all fruit with a tighter, mineral aftertaste. Drink from 2017. | Domaine de la Vieille Cure Sur Lie | 88 | 14.0 | Loire Valley | Muscadet Sèvre et Maine | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Gadais Père et Fils 2015 Domaine de la Vieille Cure Sur Lie (Muscadet Sèvre et Maine) | Melon | Gadais Père et Fils | ||
| 448 | France | This appealing blend of 50% Roussanne, 30% Grenache Blanc and 20% Clairette is tight and citrusy on the nose, broadening out on the palate to offer hints of apple, pineapple and underripe melon. Drink now. | Domaine de la Becassonne | 88 | 19.0 | Rhône Valley | Côtes du Rhône | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | André Brunel 2014 Domaine de la Becassonne White (Côtes du Rhône) | Rhône-style White Blend | André Brunel | ||
| 449 | Italy | Aligi Sassu is a lovely sparkler without added sugar or liqueur. It offers a fragrance of white flower, lemon drop and nut. The palate delivers citrus, apple and almond flavors along with refined, persistent bubbles and a bone-dry finish. | Pas Dosé Aligi Sassu | 92 | 39.0 | Lombardy | Franciacorta | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Majolini 2006 Pas Dosé Aligi Sassu Chardonnay (Franciacorta) | Chardonnay | Majolini | ||
| 450 | France | Now part of Jacquart Champagne, Montaudon produces sophisticated and elegant wines, as this Classe M shows. It is crisp and dry in style with citrus and grapefruit flavors dominating. but some bottle age adds texture and notes of toastiness. | Classe M | 92 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Montaudon NV Classe M (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Montaudon | |||
| 451 | Italy | Here's an enticing Vino Nobile offering aromas of underbrush, tobacco leaf, ripe cherry and spice. The palate delivers succulent black cherry, plum, cinnamon and nutmeg along with velvety tannins. Although it shows the warmth of the vintage, it still retains elegance and class. Delicatio Wines, Golden Vines. | Messaggero | 92 | 35.0 | Tuscany | Vino Nobile di Montepulciano | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Montemercurio 2007 Messaggero (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) | Sangiovese | Montemercurio | ||
| 452 | France | Aromas of wood aging and ripe yellow fruits are a fine pairing for this wine that comes from the slopes above Meursault. With its textured character, apricot and peach flavors and tight acidity, this is a serious and complex wine that demands aging. Drink from 2015. | Les Tillets | 92 | Burgundy | Meursault | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Patrick Javillier 2011 Les Tillets (Meursault) | Chardonnay | Patrick Javillier | |||
| 453 | France | This is a rich, bottle-aged wine is bright with lemon and green-apple fruitiness, but it's starting to develop secondary flavors—notes of toast, almonds and cookies—as well. It's at just the right stage of development and ready to drink now. | Brut Prestige | 92 | 69.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Philippe Fontaine NV Brut Prestige (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Philippe Fontaine | ||
| 454 | Canada | An aromatic knockout with notes of peach, papaya, lychee and brown sugar. At 250 g/L of residual sugar, it's dense and rich with carmelized sugar flavors and a lengthy finish. | Reserve Icewine | 92 | 30.0 | Ontario | Niagara-On-The-Lake | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Pillitteri 2012 Reserve Icewine Vidal (Niagara-On-The-Lake) | Vidal | Pillitteri | ||
| 455 | US | Fine acidity and a bracing minerality, like a lick of cold steel on a winter day, mark this Chardonnay. It has oak notes, but they're wisely kept in the background, allowing the citrus, green apple and peach flavors to star. This beautiful wine continues the winery's string of great reserve Chardonnays, and is their best since the 2006 vintage. | Reserve | 92 | 40.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Robert Mondavi 2011 Reserve Chardonnay (Carneros) | Chardonnay | Robert Mondavi | |||
| 456 | US | Thickly moussed, Roederer's Brut, 60% Chardonnay blended with 40% Pinot Noir, aged two years on yeast is affordable and luxurious. A gorgeous, very dry sparkling wine with aromatics of honey, raisin, apple and pear, it is rich and soft and offers both depth and length. It's an ideal marriage of bright acidity and ripe fruit character. | Brut | 92 | 23.0 | California | Anderson Valley | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Roederer Estate NV Brut Sparkling (Anderson Valley) | Sparkling Blend | Roederer Estate | ||
| 457 | US | With a wine this finely constructed, the question is always ageability. There's no question about the immediate deliciousness. It's thrilling with raspberries, strawberries, orange rind and cola, and complex notes of minerals and earth. The mouthfeel is absolutely beautiful, comprised of silk and satin brightened with acidity. So should you drink it now? Yes. Will it age? For the next six years, yes. | Solomon Hills Vineyard | 92 | 45.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Rusack 2011 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Rusack | |||
| 458 | Italy | From one of Franciacorta's leading producers, Gran Cuvée Pas Operé offers an enticing fragrance of acacia flower, white flowers and beeswax. The creamy palate delivers apple, nut, spice, thyme and sage along with fine, persistent effervescence. | Gran Cuvée Pas Operé | 92 | 50.0 | Lombardy | Franciacorta | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Bellavista 2006 Gran Cuvée Pas Operé Sparkling (Franciacorta) | Sparkling Blend | Bellavista | ||
| 459 | France | A rich, bottled-aged wine, full of toast as well as apple and crisp grapefruit flavors, this has great balance and elegance. It's full of fruit, but structured and seamlessly integrated. It's ready to drink now, but will also improve with age. Drink until 2020. | Tzarina No 1 Brut | 92 | 100.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Chanoine NV Tzarina No 1 Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Chanoine | ||
| 460 | US | Proving that exceptional wines can be (and were) made in this cool, light vintage, this estate-grown selection is both elegant and complex. Flavors of mixed wild berries, a streak of tea, a whiff of peach and compelling balance carry it through an extended finish. | Ridgecrest Vineyards | 92 | 50.0 | Oregon | Ribbon Ridge | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Chehalem 2011 Ridgecrest Vineyards Pinot Noir (Ribbon Ridge) | Pinot Noir | Chehalem | |
| 461 | US | A marvelous Pinot Blanc, this combines aromatic hints of almond with mixed citrus fruit and rind, zippy acidity and a great wash of minerality. It cleanses and tickles the palate, lingering sensuously through a finish of surprising depth. | Stoller Vineyards | 92 | 29.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Chehalem 2012 Stoller Vineyards Pinot Blanc (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Blanc | Chehalem | |
| 462 | France | This big, ripe and fruity wine shows both the richness and the structure of the vintage, but never loses sight of balance. It's full of rich yellow fruits, green plums and citrus, but structured with refreshing acidity, a minerally texture and gentle hints of wood aging. Drink from 2015. | Blagny Premier Cru | 92 | 66.0 | Burgundy | Meursault | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henri de Villamont 2010 Blagny Premier Cru (Meursault) | Chardonnay | Henri de Villamont | ||
| 463 | France | This is a beautiful wine showing remarkable richness and maturity. Hints of toast and bright fruits combine seamlessly to yield a full, ripe wine marked with with intense acidity. With concentration from old vines showing strongly, it's a wine that's ready to drink now. | Cuvée Marguerite Brut | 92 | 60.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Vollereaux 2007 Cuvée Marguerite Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Vollereaux | ||
| 464 | Germany | Richly textured and unabashedly full in body, this dry Riesling is intensely ripe. Pineapple and peach flavor is accented by zesty lime peel and earthy tones of wet stone and lanolin. The midpalate is lifted by a whiff of violet perfume and bold, lemon-lime acidity envigorates the finish. | Westhofen Morstein GG Trocken | 92 | 115.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Wittmann 2011 Westhofen Morstein GG Trocken Riesling (Rheinhessen) | Riesling | Wittmann | ||||
| 465 | Italy | Morar is a spicy Amarone with a fragrance of raisin, baked plum, tobacco and black pepper. The palate delivers lush black cherry and raspberry flavors mingled with intense white pepper, clove and nutmeg notes. It's smooth and rich with enough freshness to make this a perfect match for seasoned cheeses or roasted red meat. | Morar | 92 | 69.0 | Veneto | Amarone della Valpolicella | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Valentina Cubi 2008 Morar (Amarone della Valpolicella) | Red Blend | Valentina Cubi | ||
| 466 | France | Crisp and structured, this is an intensely mineral wine. It has great acidity and a strongly zesty, tangy character that still needs time to soften. It's bright, fruity and full of dancing freshness. It's good to go now, but keep until 2017 and it will be that much more complex. | Blanc de Blancs Brut | 92 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Deutz 2007 Blanc de Blancs Brut Chardonnay (Champagne) | Chardonnay | Deutz | |||
| 467 | US | Dense, dark and spicy, this opens with a thicket of briar and bramble—one almost wants to say thistle—wrapped around taut, compact black fruits. There is a hint of gun metal running through the palate, and as the wine warms and slowly opens, it reveals a lingering finish with a little pat of butter left on the tongue. This should be in fine shape for at least another decade. | Evenstad Reserve | 92 | 65.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Domaine Serene 2010 Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Serene | |
| 468 | Germany | The nose of this powerfully fruity yet dry Riesling packs a punch, with aromas of ripe pineapple, apricot and floral potpourri. The palate is dense with stone fruit, and a hint of red berry flavor, but finishes elegantly with sleek mineral tones. | Ürziger Würzgarten Alte Reben GG Trocken | 92 | 42.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Dr. Loosen 2011 Ürziger Würzgarten Alte Reben GG Trocken Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Dr. Loosen | ||||
| 469 | Germany | Lanolin and honeycomb notes lend a minerally feel to rich, lusciously concentrated peach and tangerine flavors in this powerful yet finely structured kabinett. A hint of spritz and shocking lemon-lime acidity lead the way to a long, elegant finish. | Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett | 92 | 27.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Dr. Loosen 2011 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Dr. Loosen | ||||
| 470 | France | Very dry in style, this is a beautifully crisp, tight and taut Champagne. It has citrus and green apple flavors, and is steely in character while also fruity. It could do well with some more bottle age. | Édition Limitée Extra Brut | 92 | 70.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | H. Blin 2003 Édition Limitée Extra Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | H. Blin | ||
| 471 | France | Rich and opulent, this is a full-throated Pinot Noir. It has ripe berry flavors and a balancing acidity that supports a dense texture and underlay of firm tannins. While delicious now, this is a wine that will improve with aging so drink from 2016. | Les Chatelots Premier Cru | 92 | 73.0 | Burgundy | Chambolle-Musigny | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henri de Villamont 2010 Les Chatelots Premier Cru (Chambolle-Musigny) | Pinot Noir | Henri de Villamont | ||
| 472 | France | This wine is ripe, rich and full in the mouth, like a fruit salad of red cherries, plums and berries. Yet there's a more solid side—rounded tannins support the concentrated fruits, and touches of wood aging broaden the feel of this impressive wine. Drink from 2017. | Les Feusselottes Premier Cru | 92 | 72.0 | Burgundy | Chambolle-Musigny | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Henri de Villamont 2010 Les Feusselottes Premier Cru (Chambolle-Musigny) | Pinot Noir | Henri de Villamont | ||
| 473 | Portugal | A powerful wine, richly structured and full of ripe fruits. It has a solid feel to it, firmly anchored to its dark tannins as well as lightened by the juicy berry flavors. A blend that includes Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, it needs serious aging, so don't drink before 2017. | Gerações Colheita Seleccionada | 92 | 34.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Herdade Grande 2010 Gerações Colheita Seleccionada Red (Alentejano) | Portuguese Red | Herdade Grande | |||
| 474 | France | Already mature, this is a rich and opulent wine that blends together toast and secondary-fruit aromas with fresh, lively acidity. It has weight and substantial depth and concentration. It should age well for another few years, but this impressive wine can be drunk now as well. | Les Grands Nots Millesimé Brut | 92 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jeaunaux-Robin 2004 Les Grands Nots Millesimé Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Jeaunaux-Robin | |||
| 475 | US | This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was grown in the well-known Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard. It's at a funny stage of development, with primary cherry and blackberry fruit starting to fade, while sage, dill, green olive and dried fruit notes are emerging. The tannins remain robust, while the acidity is just about perfect for Napa Valley. Awkward now, but with a promising future, it should emerge from the doldrums after 2017. | Clone 6 | 92 | 130.0 | California | Rutherford | Napa | Bell 2009 Clone 6 Cabernet Sauvignon (Rutherford) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Bell | |||
| 476 | US | This is a big wine, clearly in need of cellaring. There's a massive core of blackberries, cherries and baking chocolate on the palate, but it's rigidly tannic, dry and acidic still. The blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese, putting it in the super Tuscan category. Give it until 2017 to begin to mellow, and it could still be going strong in 2025. | La Castellana | 92 | 88.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Castello di Amorosa 2009 La Castellana Red (Napa Valley) | Red Blend | Castello di Amorosa | |||
| 477 | France | An interesting percentage of Cabernet Franc gives this wine a more perfumed character than is usual in many Pomerols. On the palate, the wine is rich and shows the aromatic character of the berry fruits and well integrated wood. It is young still, needing time. Drink from 2017. | 92 | 65.0 | Bordeaux | Pomerol | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Vray Croix de Gay 2010 Pomerol | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Vray Croix de Gay | |||
| 478 | France | This is a superior vintage Champagne that is just beginning to mature. Crisp white and citrus fruits are beginning to fade into mature toast and cookie flavors, but the wine maintains its zesty texture. Drink this wine now, but beware the cork is secured precariously with string that must be cut to open. | Grand Cru Family Reserve Brut | 92 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Dampierre 2005 Grand Cru Family Reserve Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Dampierre | |||
| 479 | Italy | Garnet-ruby in color, this has fresh aromas of white cherry, plum, dried dill and rosemary. The mouthfeel is simple and clean, with fresh acidity on the close. | Riserva | 87 | 15.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Cannonau di Sardegna | Santa Maria La Palma 2006 Riserva (Cannonau di Sardegna) | Cannonau | Santa Maria La Palma | ||||
| 480 | US | This Stella Mae is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. It remains a rather lean wine in the Sparkman portfolio, despite having alcohol at 14.6%. Here are lightly earthy flavors of strawberry and herb, with a hint of green in the tannins. | Stella Mae | 87 | 45.0 | Washington | Red Mountain | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Sparkman 2009 Stella Mae Red (Red Mountain) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Sparkman | |
| 481 | Italy | This pretty Cannonau-based wine opens with ripe aromas of blackberry, tobacco and dried spice. The mouthfeel is smooth, plush and dense. | Costera | 87 | 18.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Isola dei Nuraghi | Argiolas 2008 Costera Cannonau (Isola dei Nuraghi) | Cannonau | Argiolas | ||||
| 482 | US | The alcohol is nice and low in this dry Pinot Noir. It has a silky texture and complex flavors of red cherries, persimmons, cola and spices. Acidity is great but there's something slightly off, suggesting a trace of unripeness. Drink now. | Ocean's Ghost | 87 | 60.0 | California | Sta. Rita Hills | Central Coast | Babcock 2010 Ocean's Ghost Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills) | Pinot Noir | Babcock | |||
| 483 | South Africa | A glimmer of toast and honey add depth to the green fig, apple and underripe peach center of this wine. Fresh and zippy on the palate, the vibrant fruit and sweet citrus flavors carry through to the mouthwatering finish. Drink up. | 87 | 12.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Cape View 2011 Chenin Blanc (Stellenbosch) | Chenin Blanc | Cape View | ||||
| 484 | South Africa | A fresh and fruity wine that's ready to drink now. This has attractive aromas and flavors of green apple and lime followed by a clean, mouthwatering finish. There's a soft herbal streak that adds depth to the nose and mouth. | Petit | 87 | 12.0 | Western Cape | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Ken Forrester 2011 Petit Chenin Blanc (Western Cape) | Chenin Blanc | Ken Forrester | |||
| 485 | France | Bulky and rugged but sound, with some drying tannins on the finish. It compensates by offering attractive flavors of black cherries, black olives and hints of asphalt and garrigue. Try it with hearty braises or stews. | 87 | 13.0 | Rhône Valley | Côtes du Rhône Villages | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Louis Bernard 2009 Red (Côtes du Rhône Villages) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Louis Bernard | |||
| 486 | US | This smooth, lush Cabernet is brimming with blackberry, black currant, blueberry cedar and spice flavors. It's classic Cabernet. You'll find quite a scour of acidity running through the middle, which suggests this wine should pair with rich, fatty meats. | L de Lyeth | 87 | 13.0 | California | Sonoma County | Sonoma | Lyeth 2010 L de Lyeth Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma County) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Lyeth | |||
| 487 | Italy | A blend of Friulano and Verduzzo, this delivers aromas of candied fruit, yellow rose, butterscotch, spice and apricot. It opens a clear window onto the natural characteristics of both grape varieties. | Tovè | 87 | 15.0 | Northeastern Italy | Colli Orientali del Friuli | Marco Cecchini 2010 Tovè White (Colli Orientali del Friuli) | White Blend | Marco Cecchini | ||||
| 488 | Italy | Pinot Grigio from the Friuli Grave tends to show extra creaminess and structure in the mouth. Here is a stellar example that's backed by flavors of peach, citrus and Golden Delicious apple. | 87 | 18.0 | Northeastern Italy | Friuli Grave | Vigneti Le Monde 2010 Pinot Grigio (Friuli Grave) | Pinot Grigio | Vigneti Le Monde | |||||
| 489 | Italy | This bright white is redolent of tomato leaf, wild salvia and citrus. The brightness of the bouquet is followed by a satisfyingly creamy mouthfeel. | 87 | 13.0 | Northeastern Italy | Friuli Grave | Vigneti Le Monde 2010 Sauvignon (Friuli Grave) | Sauvignon | Vigneti Le Monde | |||||
| 490 | Spain | Lime, apple and mineral aromas come with a note of eggy yeast. The mouthfeel is regular and a touch foamy, with semisweet flavors of kiwi, apple and gooseberry. Mild and feeling good on the finish, it's basic but well worth a go. | Reserva Brut | 87 | 19.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | V&N; Cellars NV Reserva Brut Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | V&N; Cellars | ||
| 491 | Austria | This is a soft, creamed-apple style of wine, with a great shaft of acidity cutting through the crisp fruit. Kiwi and gooseberry fruits are lifted on the bright, lively finish. | Kellermeister Privat Goldberg | 87 | 18.0 | Kremstal | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Winzer Krems 2011 Kellermeister Privat Goldberg Grüner Veltliner (Kremstal) | Grüner Veltliner | Winzer Krems | |||
| 492 | US | Tart and lively, this medium-bodied Sangiovese was co-fermented with small amounts of Syrah and Viognier. The Viognier contributes scents of citrus and stone fruit, which add some welcome complexity. | 87 | 30.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Zerba Cellars 2008 Sangiovese (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Sangiovese | Zerba Cellars | ||
| 493 | US | Produced by Three Rivers for celebrity winemaker Geoff Tate, the Insania is actually rather tame. Pretty fruit flavors of berry, cherry and plum introduce the wine gracefully, then run into some stiff, drying, chalky tannins. | 87 | 35.0 | Washington | Red Mountain | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Insania 2009 Red (Red Mountain) | Red Blend | Insania | ||
| 494 | US | This is intensely aromatic, with loads of tropical fruit, apple blossom and white peach notes on the nose and palate. It's fresh, tasty and big in body, yet deftly balanced. Soft, lemony acidity on the midpalate gets a boost of citrus rind and saline on the finish. | 87 | 12.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Knapp 2011 Chardonnay (Finger Lakes) | Chardonnay | Knapp | |||
| 495 | US | This El Dorado wine opens with aromas of sweet floral jasmine and is very pretty through and through. Its acidity sings perfectly through the middle of the wine, lifting the flavors of apple and dried apricot as well as the notes of lemon and lime on the finish. This should pair with a range of midweek dinners. | Battonage | 87 | 18.0 | California | El Dorado | Sierra Foothills | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Lava Cap 2010 Battonage Chardonnay (El Dorado) | Chardonnay | Lava Cap | |
| 496 | Spain | This barrel-fermented Verdejo is interesting, but it's also a bit low on acidity. It smells like pine and blowsy flowers. Creamy, soft and cuddly on the palate, this has flavors of baked apple, wood resin and banana. It finishes round and sweet. Drink now. | Collection Blanco | 87 | 25.0 | Northern Spain | Rueda | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Loess 2009 Collection Blanco Verdejo (Rueda) | Verdejo | Loess | ||
| 497 | US | This wine has the variety's trademark notes of herb, green bell pepper, with a woodsy qulaity. This is a full-bodied effort, bearing a long, spicy finish. | Babcock Vineyard | 87 | 30.0 | California | Suisun Valley | North Coast | Virginie Boone | @vboone | MICA Cellars 2009 Babcock Vineyard Cabernet Franc (Suisun Valley) | Cabernet Franc | MICA Cellars | |
| 498 | US | There are lot's of cherry, cola, sandalwood and exotic spice flavors in this Pinot Noir. It's dry and silky, with a nice crispness from the acidity. | Annabella | 87 | 17.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Michael Pozzan 2010 Annabella Pinot Noir (Carneros) | Pinot Noir | Michael Pozzan | |||
| 499 | France | This is a big, spicy wine, with very ripe flavors of red berries. It''ss concentrated, with layers of pepper a tight lemon-zest acidity. | L'Esprit de Provence | 87 | 20.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Grand Cros 2011 L'Esprit de Provence Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Domaine du Grand Cros | ||
| 500 | Spain | Aromas of watermelon and a dusting of natural vanilla mark the bouquet. On the palate, it's fleshy but still crisp and focused, with nectarine, red apple and strawberry flavors. The finish lasts, with some sweetness. | Rosado | 87 | 11.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | El Coto 2011 Rosado Rosé (Rioja) | Rosé | El Coto | ||
| 501 | US | A Verdelho with a taste of nuts—like Marcona almonds—it gets more fruity and aromatic after a good swirl. This is marked by a tangy sweetness on the finish. | Silvaspoons Vineyard | 87 | 15.0 | California | Lodi | Central Valley | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Fenestra 2010 Silvaspoons Vineyard Verdelho (Lodi) | Verdelho | Fenestra | |
| 502 | Austria | Deliciously perfumed, this is as light as a feather, with baked apple and lemon flavors. It's crisp and honey sweet—a great apéritif. | Muscato | 87 | 18.0 | Österreichischer Sekt | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Gunter Triebaumer NV Muscato Moscato (Österreichischer Sekt) | Moscato | Gunter Triebaumer | |||
| 503 | US | Sauvignon Blanc has been a consistent performer for Hanna, usually yielding a rich, ripe wine with brisk acidity. The '11 is one of their best efforts. It's tart, clean and savory, with the pineapple, tangerine and Meyer lemon flavors touched with a slight sweetness. | 87 | 19.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Hanna 2011 Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Hanna | ||||
| 504 | France | A simple but attractive Côtes du Rhône, with impressively pure cherry-berry fruit, medium body and a slightly chunky feel. Drink it over the next couple of years. | Réserve Grand Veneur | 87 | 15.0 | Rhône Valley | Côtes du Rhône | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Alain Jaume et Fils 2009 Réserve Grand Veneur Red (Côtes du Rhône) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Alain Jaume et Fils | ||
| 505 | Spain | Full and smoky, with bacon, blackberry and tire rubber on the nose. This is a bit grating in feel due to full tannins and acids, with wild berry flavors, bitter oak, black plum and darkness. Lengthy on the finish. | 87 | 16.0 | Northern Spain | Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Aleo 2009 Tempranillo (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León) | Tempranillo | Aleo | |||
| 506 | Italy | A blend of 70% Pinot Grigio and 30% Ribolla Gialla, this bright white opens with floral notes of jasmine and honeysuckle, white pepper and stone fruit. The Ribolla Gialla element adds structure and notes of caramel and pineapple. | 87 | 12.0 | Northeastern Italy | Venezia Giulia | Altùris 2011 White (Venezia Giulia) | White Blend | Altùris | |||||
| 507 | US | Medium bodied, this sharply defined wine brings in plenty of notes of herb, root and earth around its light berry fruit. It captures the defining flavors of Wahluke Slope Syrah in a somewhat muted style, reflecting the abbreviated growing season. | Clifton Vineyard | 87 | 28.0 | Washington | Wahluke Slope | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Camaraderie 2009 Clifton Vineyard Syrah (Wahluke Slope) | Syrah | Camaraderie | |
| 508 | US | This is a mix of fruit from both warm and cool vineyards, crafting a clean, fresh, lightly herbal wine with a pleasing dusty character. Hints of cocoa and toast annotate the tart berry fruit, with a thread of smoke and chalk running through the tannins. | 87 | 28.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Camaraderie 2009 Tempranillo (Yakima Valley) | Tempranillo | Camaraderie | ||
| 509 | US | This would be a straightforward Bordeaux red blend if not for the 5% Petite Sirah within. Together, it's 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec as well, sourced from Howell Mountain and valley floor sites. Dusty and herbal, the wine is thick and sizably tannic, with dense black fruit, leather and coffee. | Quantum | 91 | 65.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Beringer 2014 Quantum Red (Napa Valley) | Red Blend | Beringer | |
| 510 | US | Flint and smoke aromas show strongly on this bottling, alongside hints of lemon balm and a rustic apple cider vinegar savory kick. Tangy smoked tangerine flavors show on the energized sip, where a unique sandalwood smoky quality plays with more cider-like tang. | Coastview Vineyard | 91 | 48.0 | California | Monterey County | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Big Basin 2014 Coastview Vineyard Chardonnay (Monterey County) | Chardonnay | Big Basin | |
| 511 | France | This potentially rich Champagne is still young. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that dominate the blend show tight acidity, minerality and a tangy, orange-like edge. Give it time to mature, and it will be splendid. | Cuvée St Clément | 91 | 70.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Boude Baudin 2010 Cuvée St Clément (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Boude Baudin | ||
| 512 | France | Aged for an extra two years to soften its tense acidity, this Champagne is defiantly bone-dry yet not searing. Its ripe and rich fruitiness cushions the crisp acidity and taut, nervy citrus character. Drink now. | B. Zéro Brut Dosage | 91 | 59.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Boude Baudin NV B. Zéro Brut Dosage (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Boude Baudin | ||
| 513 | US | Big tannins support the layers of extracted, concentrated fruit that leans red into cherry, cassis and currant. Char and vanilla speak for the oak. | El Adobo Ranch Vineyard | 91 | 90.0 | California | Chiles Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Conn Creek 2013 El Adobo Ranch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Chiles Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Conn Creek | |
| 514 | Chile | Baked blueberry and boysenberry aromas are more ripe than delicate. This Merlot is saturated and deeply tannic. Flavors of coffee, chocolate and lemon peel precede a toasty finish that overflows with chocolaty oak and lingering tannins. Drink through 2023. | 20 Barrels Limited Edition Peralillo Estate | 91 | 35.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Cono Sur 2012 20 Barrels Limited Edition Peralillo Estate Merlot (Colchagua Valley) | Merlot | Cono Sur | |||
| 515 | US | Delicate in cranberry and strawberry, this wine is highlighted in uplifted acidity and plenty of length and breadth within its medium-bodied structure. A pleasing streak of cardamom is consistent throughout, as accents of forest floor and cola figure in. | Silver Eagle Vineyard | 91 | 75.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | D.R. Stephens 2014 Silver Eagle Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | D.R. Stephens | |
| 516 | US | This is a relatively thick and dense wine, grippy in tannin and oak at first, youthful and desiring of time and air. Beyond its strength, its shows the beginnings of delicacy and grace, commingling raspberry with clove and tea. | Soul Patch Estate Grown | 91 | 55.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Davis Family 2014 Soul Patch Estate Grown Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Davis Family | |
| 517 | US | This is a soft, smooth and earthy wine, still unraveling from its youth, that's crisp and fresh in acidity. Chewy still in texture, it offers a glorious celebration of red cherry, rhubarb, tea and clove. | Starr Ridge Vineyard | 91 | 55.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Davis Family 2014 Starr Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Davis Family | |
| 518 | France | From a walled vineyard once owned by the local bishop, this wine is structured and firm while also having great red cherry and berry fruit. It's one of a number of Premier Crus from this producer—and certainly the most expressive with its generous fruit and balanced tannins. Drink from 2018. | Le Clos l'Evêque Premier Cru | 91 | 60.0 | Burgundy | Mercurey | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Jeannin-Naltet 2014 Le Clos l'Evêque Premier Cru (Mercurey) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Jeannin-Naltet | ||
| 519 | US | Deliciously fruity but also well-structured, this full-bodied wine has excellent concentration and good balance. Effusive aromas of blueberry and black cherry lead to opulent but not overripe berry flavors that are lightly accented by clove and cinnamon nuances. | The Brat | 91 | 36.0 | California | Calaveras County | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Prospect 772 2014 The Brat Grenache (Calaveras County) | Grenache | Prospect 772 | |
| 520 | US | Bob Lindquist is almost certainly the only vintner in America that is drying Marsanne on straw mats to make a dessert wine. The result is aromas of Asian pear, white peach, baked apple and baking spice, more fresh rather than sweet. It is viscous on the sip, and the sweetness steadily grows on the palate, offering cotton candy flavors. Fascinating stuff. | Doux Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard | 91 | 35.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Qupé 2013 Doux Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard Marsanne (Edna Valley) | Marsanne | Qupé | |
| 521 | US | This is a delicate yet flavorful take on this grape, from a biodynamic, cool-climate vineyard. Light red plum and hibiscus aromas meet with sweet herbs and cinnamon spice on the nose. The lithe palate offers candied strawberry with thyme, anise and touches of garden herbs, with that red fruit flavor carrying deep into the finish. Would pair great with spicy food. | Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard | 91 | 35.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Qupé 2013 Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard Grenache (Edna Valley) | Grenache | Qupé | |
| 522 | US | The Sims is amped up in 2014, dark and thick and showing a roasted character. Mocha, black tea and Kahlua flavors push the palate into a gritty charred mode. It's delicious, liquorous, and suitable for smoky ribs or a juicy burger. Drink now through 2020. | Sims Vineyard | 91 | 55.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Rex Hill 2014 Sims Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Rex Hill | |
| 523 | US | There's a whiff of volatility upon opening, then a rush of bright, tangy orange and cherry fruit. The 20% new oak aging does not really come through in scent or flavor. Though not in any way effervescent, this young release carries an impression of carbonation in the finish. Give it another year or two of bottle age and drink after 2019. | Steve's Reserve | 91 | 65.0 | Oregon | Chehalem Mountains | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Ruby 2015 Steve's Reserve Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains) | Pinot Noir | Ruby | |
| 524 | US | Wood spice, cherry and herb aromas are followed by luscious cherry flavors. It keeps you coming back for more with a high yum factor. | Wallula | 91 | 35.0 | Washington | Horse Heaven Hills | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Structure 2014 Wallula Syrah (Horse Heaven Hills) | Syrah | Structure | |
| 525 | US | There's an expert balance between lightly melted butter, pithy Meyer lemon and toasted marcona almond on the nose of this bottling from the region's iconic vineyard. The palate is wound up tightly, offering good grip and lots of textural length while showing flavors of chamomile, saffron, sea salt and more Meyer lemon rinds. | Rincon Vineyard | 91 | 49.0 | California | Arroyo Grande Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Testarossa 2015 Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay (Arroyo Grande Valley) | Chardonnay | Testarossa | |
| 526 | US | Just 8% of this reserve spent time in new oak, putting the emphasis on juicy jammy flavors of cranberry fruit. It rolls into sour cherry, some citrus and a most refreshing, clean and vivid mouthfeel. Drink now and into the mid-2020s. | Prince Hill Vineyard Reserve | 91 | 55.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Tumwater 2014 Prince Hill Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Noir | Tumwater | |
| 527 | Germany | A surprising whiff of black currant on the nose of this elegant white points to Scheurebe—one of Germany's lesser-known grapes. Wittmann's version is particularly poised, offering loads of peach and grapefruit flavors, sharply contrasted by zesty lime and mineral tones. The finish is long and sleek, touched by a hint of bee pollen. | Trocken | 91 | 30.0 | Rheinhessen | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Wittmann 2015 Trocken Scheurebe (Rheinhessen) | Scheurebe | Wittmann | ||||
| 528 | France | This producer shows its preference for dry Champagnes with this bone-dry, oak-fermented bottling. With its bottle age and the softening effect of wood, it's generous and gently textured, leaving plenty of room for its bright fruit and balanced acidity to show. Drink from 2018. | Brut Zéro Sélection | 91 | 42.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jeaunaux-Robin NV Brut Zéro Sélection (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Jeaunaux-Robin | ||
| 529 | US | From the sought-after site on Westside Road, this wine delivers a nuanced, elegant expression of juicy red cherry, plum, pomegranate and light, compelling spice. With a depth of body and soft, integrated tannin, it's complex without being overpowering, finishing in a mix of sautéed mushroom and forest floor. | Bucher Vineyard | 91 | 45.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Joseph Jewell 2014 Bucher Vineyard Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Joseph Jewell | |
| 530 | Chile | Jammy berry aromas seem reduced at first, with notes of iodine and rubber. But with airing this packed Syrah comes around. A flush saturated tannic palate is home to toasty blackened berry, coffee and spice flavors. On the finish, burnt toast and espresso flavors don't slip. Drink through 2022. | Cuvée Alexandre Apalta Vineyard Made With Organic Grapes | 91 | 24.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Lapostolle 2013 Cuvée Alexandre Apalta Vineyard Made With Organic Grapes Syrah (Colchagua Valley) | Syrah | Lapostolle | |||
| 531 | US | One of a crop of new Oregon sparklers, this was barrel fermented with native yeast and aged for 56 months prior to disgorging. Fine tiny bubbles and a fresh, yeasty aroma introduce the wine, which has excellent concentration. Green apple and green banana, a touch of cucumber and a nice toasty frame all combine gracefully. The odds are that this will continue to improve in bottle for another five years at least. | Blanc de Noir | 91 | 50.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Le Cadeau 2011 Blanc de Noir Sparkling (Oregon) | Sparkling Blend | Le Cadeau | |
| 532 | US | Scott Shull (Raptor Ridge) consults here. This brings a blend of clones from the estate vineyard, with ample new wood still showing through. Black fruits and a vein of coffee are also in the mix, with a balanced, somewhat muscular mouthfeel. This has the strength to stand up to a lightly blackened grilled seafood filet. | Diversité | 91 | 50.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Le Cadeau 2015 Diversité Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Le Cadeau | |
| 533 | US | Slightly liquorous when first opened, this pushes the alcohol up towards a place where some of the nuances are lost. But it has plenty of flavor, power and punch. Black coffee, black cherry, black olive and black licorice are entwined here, with some heat in the follow-through. Give it a good decanting and it will start to smooth out. | Équinoxe | 91 | 50.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Le Cadeau 2015 Équinoxe Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Le Cadeau | |
| 534 | US | Black plum, charred wood, coffee syrup and cracked black pepper show on the excellently bright nose of this bottling. The flavors are equally intriguing, with umami touches of charred beef along with rosemary, bay leaf, olie and more black pepper. | Di Domenico | 91 | 38.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Le Vigne 2014 Di Domenico Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Le Vigne | |
| 535 | Germany | Fresh green apple and grapefruit aromas are bolstered on the palate of this dry, elegantly balanced Riesling. It's light bodied yet delightfully creamy. A kiss of tangerine zest marks its moderately long finish. | Trocken | 91 | 22.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Maximin Grünhäuser 2015 Trocken Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Maximin Grünhäuser | ||||
| 536 | US | Merlot (63%) takes the lead on this blend followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (23%) and Cabernet Franc. The aromas seem somewhat wound up at present, with notes of wood spice, vanilla and fresh herb. The palate is über-smooth, showing a fine sense of balance and polish. | 91 | 50.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Northstar 2013 Red (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Northstar | ||
| 537 | US | A 100% varietal wine, this offers upfront structure and gravelly texture, its tannins robust. The medium-bodied ripeness allows plenty of room for dried herb and cedar, accents to the bolder notions of black raspberry jam and coffee. | 91 | 110.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Padis 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Padis | ||
| 538 | US | This is sourced from 30-year-old Wädenswil vines from a vineyard in the Elkton AVA. It's complex and compelling, showing layers of stone, strawberry, citrus, chocolate and sassafras. It's an elegant wine, well proportioned and modest in scope, but delicious. | Bradley Vineyard | 91 | 45.0 | Oregon | Umpqua Valley | Southern Oregon | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Paul O'Brien 2014 Bradley Vineyard Pinot Noir (Umpqua Valley) | Pinot Noir | Paul O'Brien | |
| 539 | US | Bright pomegranate and dried strawberry notes start the aromas on this bottling and then descend into more brooding cola, smoked herbs, cinnamon and spicy hibiscus. There is herbal and mineral depth to the palate, with raspberry, cranberry and pencil lead flavors that evolve toward fruit punch, thyme and earth. It's light in body but full of grippy texture. | Twin Creeks Estate | 93 | 42.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Twin Creeks Estate Pinot Noir (Edna Valley) | Pinot Noir | Claiborne & Churchill | |
| 540 | US | A touch of earthy funk shows at first on the nose of this bottling, laced throughout the dark cranberry, pomegranate, crushed grapeseeds and a lavish layer of violets. The palate is heavily spiced with clove, gingerbread, a touch of juniper, lots of earthy sagebrush and a strong cranberry fruit, all seasoned by an iron-powered minerality. | Bien Nacido Vineyard | 93 | 60.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Flying Goat Cellars 2012 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Flying Goat Cellars | |
| 541 | US | From one of the more exciting and westernmost vineyards in the region, this bottling shows earthy, gamey aromas alongside ripe red and purple fruits, pairing plum and black cherry with minty, musky herbs. The palate shows dried olive, tart orange peels, red plums, baked figs and pine needles, proving deliciously savory and intense. | Solomon Hills Vineyard | 93 | 42.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Flying Goat Cellars 2012 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Flying Goat Cellars | |
| 542 | Italy | Heady scents of pressed jasmine, honey and candied orange waft out of the glass. The concentrated but elegant palate provides layers of mature apricot, lemon drop and ginger brightened by fresh acidity. It's vibrant and well balanced, with a persistent finish. | Praepositus Passito | 93 | 30.0 | Northeastern Italy | Alto Adige Valle Isarco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Abbazia di Novacella 2012 Praepositus Passito Kerner (Alto Adige Valle Isarco) | Kerner | Abbazia di Novacella | ||
| 543 | US | Strong elements of black pepper and smoky oak beg for steak to be paired with this 100% varietal wine. It showcases sizable weight and a solid tannic structure, with supple expressions of black cherry and chocolate that linger long on the rich finish. This bold beauty should hold well through 2023. | Cañon Creek Vineyard | 93 | 75.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Midsummer Cellars 2013 Cañon Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Midsummer Cellars | |
| 544 | US | From Paso's blending vanguards, this mix of 62% Syrah, 19% Petite Sirah, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Malbec offers an intriguing nose of sesame, soy, cracked pepper, fresh blackberry and raw beef. There is cedar and toasted pine on the palate as well as smoked meats, black pepper, teriyaki and an elderberry-blackberry base. | Reckoning | 93 | 54.0 | California | Templeton Gap District | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | ONX 2013 Reckoning Red (Templeton Gap District) | Red Blend | ONX | |
| 545 | US | This is a gorgeous wine, blended with 8% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec, and aged entirely in new French oak. Juicy waves of cassis and red currant are accented by dark chocolate, ultimately showcasing a lush, plush yet structured palate. It's decadent now, but should age well through 2022. | Les Sommets | 93 | 85.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Les Belles Collines 2012 Les Sommets Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Les Belles Collines | |
| 546 | US | Crisp green apple is the star in this well-made, balanced and elegant wine, that's tangy yet smooth, with a voluptuous tease of anise. Approachably structured, the complexity of the texture and lurking layers of further flavor suggest letting this wine open slowly to unveil its true self, and allowing it to linger on the palate. | Gap's Crown Vineyard | 93 | 50.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Lutum 2014 Gap's Crown Vineyard Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) | Chardonnay | Lutum | |
| 547 | US | Deep aromas of dried strawberries and blueberries meet with hot bricks, dried meats, purple flowers, a touch of smoke and secondary notes of truffle on the nose of this delicious smelling and tasting wine. The layers of flavor on the palate range from black cherry to milk chocolate, framed by chalky tannins. | Stolpman Vineyard | 93 | 150.0 | California | Ballard Canyon | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Turiya 2011 Stolpman Vineyard Sangiovese (Ballard Canyon) | Sangiovese | Turiya | |
| 548 | US | This is the producer's highest and most westerly vineyard site. It holds back from the start, still tightly wound and somewhat reduced on the nose. As it opens, ethereal layers of wild strawberry, green tea and lacings of herb and white pepper unveil to tremendous effect. | Thomas Road | 93 | 85.0 | California | Green Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Iron Horse 2013 Thomas Road Pinot Noir (Green Valley) | Pinot Noir | Iron Horse | |
| 549 | Italy | Scents of perfumed dark berry, rose, cake spice and aromatic herb unfold on this structured red. On the full-bodied palate, notes of chopped mint, mocha and white pepper accent a core of mature black cherry. It's young and assertive but well balanced, with firm tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2018–2026. | Resa 56 | 93 | 90.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Brandini 2011 Resa 56 (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Brandini | ||
| 550 | US | The estate-grown grapes for this wine come from some of the appellation's highest-elevation sites, at the base of Mount Veeder. Natural acidity is the star of the show, a nice surprise after a decadent honeyed color and bouquet. Serious texture and complexity give way to a touch of salted caramel and peach. | Estate Reserve | 93 | 35.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Artesa 2014 Estate Reserve Chardonnay (Carneros) | Chardonnay | Artesa | |
| 551 | US | From the gorgeous, mighty Pagani, planted in 1895, comes this powerfully rich and refined wine, a study in woodsy rusticity and layers of fig, blackberry and a stick of cinnamon. Full bodied and luxurious on the palate, a lithe jolt of acidity rears its head just before the finish, trying to compete with the licorice and leather. Drink now through 2020. | Pagani Ranch | 93 | 46.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Carlisle 2013 Pagani Ranch Zinfandel (Sonoma Valley) | Zinfandel | Carlisle | |
| 552 | France | Coming from a remote estate on the edge of the Lubéron mountains in the north of Provence, this wine is impressively rich. It gains great concentration and structure from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in the blend. Full of ripe red fruits, it is dense at the end. | 93 | 20.0 | Provence | Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Vignelaure 2015 Rosé (Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence) | Rosé | Château Vignelaure | |||
| 553 | Argentina | Smoky, charred aromas of blackberry and blackened spices set up a bold palate with energy to spare. Blackberry and cassis flavors are rich, toasty and chocolaty, while the finish on this full-bodied, ripe Malbec is lengthy and moderately complex. Drink through 2021. | Winemaker's Selection Reserva | 93 | 42.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Clos d'Argentine 2013 Winemaker's Selection Reserva Malbec (Mendoza) | Malbec | Clos d'Argentine | ||
| 554 | France | Named after the Negrel family, owners of the estate, this is the top cuvée in their range. Aging in wood gives it a surprising series of flavors ranging from caramel to spice to buttery toast. While some of the fruit is lost along the way, the wine has a rounded, very complete character that is rich and made for food. | Mas Negrel Cadenet | 93 | 40.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Mas de Cadenet 2015 Mas Negrel Cadenet Rosé (Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire) | Rosé | Mas de Cadenet | ||
| 555 | US | Discovery Vineyard Cab makes up most of this wine, with just a splash of Champoux vineyard Franc to fill it out. Very pretty, very focused aromas of spice box, red and black fruit and herb are followed by a fruit-forward, shamelessly appealing yet still elegant, balanced palate that puts a premium on purity, with a well integrated structure surrounding it all. | 93 | 75.0 | Washington | Horse Heaven Hills | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Passing Time 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (Horse Heaven Hills) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Passing Time | ||
| 556 | Spain | Welcoming aromas of wood spice, plum and blackberry become more smoky with airing. This strong-boned RDD is pure and deep, with manageable tannins. Generous flavors of spiced blackberry, tobacco and vanilla finish long, elegant and with a lot in reserve. Drink from 2017 through 2030. | Gran Resalte | 93 | 88.0 | Northern Spain | Ribera del Duero | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Resalte 2010 Gran Resalte (Ribera del Duero) | Tempranillo | Resalte | ||
| 557 | US | Winemaker Dennis Martin puts grape grower Stephen Miller's signature on this wine, a nod to the importance of this historic vineyard. The wine shows bright strawberry and raspberry with touch of savory wood smoke as well as hibiscus-laced pastry and a pinch of thyme. Earthy sagebrush and wild herb flavors frame the palate, where cooked cherries and cranberries are spiced by cardamom and dried ginger spice. | Bien Nacido Vineyard | 93 | 40.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Sanctuary 2013 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Sanctuary | |
| 558 | US | It's fun to rattle off a few of the numerous aromas and flavors in this exotic but subtle wine: tangerine, pastry cream, blanched almonds and a touch of honey. The wine is refreshing, dry and nicely braced with acidity, but at the same time rather broad and soothing in texture. In other words, beautifully balanced and wonderfully complex. | Enigma | 93 | 25.0 | California | Sierra Foothills | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Terre Rouge 2014 Enigma White (Sierra Foothills) | White Blend | Terre Rouge | |
| 559 | US | This mostly Syrah blends in 6% Grenache, combining the two grapes from the property's estate into an opaque, juicy expression of black licorice, tar, cigar, grilled mushrooms atop a meaty steak and plenty of black pepper. Big and bold in every sense of the word, it retains just enough acidity to maintain an inviting nature and beguiling floral backbone. | Hail Mary | 93 | 48.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Limerick Lane 2013 Hail Mary Syrah-Grenache (Russian River Valley) | Syrah-Grenache | Limerick Lane | |
| 560 | US | As the name makes clear, this wine is made from a head-pruned, older block of very unlikely Syrah at the estate property, as seductive as rare. Plum, black cherry, leather and black pepper jump from the glass, slowly and with purpose, around a core of burly tannin and intensely floral aromatics. This is a great wine. | Headpruned Block | 93 | 45.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Limerick Lane 2013 Headpruned Block Syrah (Russian River Valley) | Syrah | Limerick Lane | |
| 561 | US | In the big, ripe and saturated school of winemaking, this wine has a deep color, oodles of black cherry and blackberry flavors and full body. It also has enough firm tannin and acidity to keep the structure lively and the finish fresh, so it's a lot of fun to drink and can take on all kinds of rich proteins at dinner. | Durell Vineyard | 93 | 50.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Loring Wine Company 2014 Durell Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | Loring Wine Company | |
| 562 | US | This is big boisterous wine from Elias Fernandez and Doug Shafer that has been given some nice time in bottle after four years in new French oak. It's a viscous, black-as-night kind of experience. Coconut macaroon and juicy blackberry and blueberry substantiate structured, integrated tannin, finishing with an unexpected elegance. | 93 | 65.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Eighty Four 2010 Petite Sirah (Napa Valley) | Petite Sirah | Eighty Four | ||
| 563 | US | Plump black plums and concentrated hibiscus fruit meet with cola, sarsaparilla and tart dried orange rind on the nose of this bottling. The palate is more earth-driven, with crushed rocks, pine needle and mint flavors spicing up the tart plum skins and berries. The texture is excitingly grippy. | Rancho Santa Rosa Vineyard | 93 | 48.0 | California | Sta. Rita Hills | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Flying Goat Cellars 2012 Rancho Santa Rosa Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills) | Pinot Noir | Flying Goat Cellars | |
| 564 | US | Spicy cracked peppercorns, light tar, fresh picked lavender and light purple fruits show on the savory nose of this bottling. More strong pepper notes show on the palate, as do tart elderberries, sesame, soy and hoisin elements, with a nice smoked meat character adding to the delicious complexity. | Fire Light | 93 | 62.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Four Lanterns 2013 Fire Light Syrah (Paso Robles) | Syrah | Four Lanterns | |
| 565 | US | There's magic in this 65% Petit Verdot and 35% Sangiovese combination. This shows concentrated cherry and kirsch aromas, touches of shiitake and porcini mushrooms and plenty of turned, wet earth aromas. The palate, framed by chalky tannins, offers more mushrooms and truffles in a black cherry-chocolate gravy, proving quite luxurious and interesting at once. | Shapeshifter | 93 | 100.0 | California | Central Coast | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Turiya 2011 Shapeshifter Red (Central Coast) | Red Blend | Turiya | |
| 566 | US | Softened by 6% Merlot, this lovely concoction opens with a waft of smoky cigar box, becoming a bold, loud expression of the variety dotted in classic notes of cassis and cedar. A luxuriously velvety texture is the standout, though, supported by great structure and length. | If Six Was Nine Reserve | 93 | 53.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | World's End 2013 If Six Was Nine Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | World's End | |
| 567 | Argentina | Smoky and intense from the get-go, this saturated, black-as-night Malbec is full of blackberry, cassis and gamy aromas. While it goes heavy on the gas, the wine's structure is up to it. Flavors of chocolate, burnt toast, salt and blackberry finish toasty and long, with savory blackened spice notes. Drink through 2023. | Benegas Lynch La Encerrada Estate Vineyard | 93 | 55.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Benegas 2011 Benegas Lynch La Encerrada Estate Vineyard Malbec (Mendoza) | Malbec | Benegas | ||
| 568 | US | This is a lovely wine, classically rendered in cedar, herb and red cherry. The dried herb and forest floor elements persist on the palate, with bursts of acidity giving it life and lingering persistence, the tannins well-integrated. | Reserve | 93 | 70.0 | California | Howell Mountain | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | W.H. Smith 2012 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) | Cabernet Sauvignon | W.H. Smith | |
| 569 | US | The aromas are bright, with notes of barrel spice, vanilla, pineapple and lees. The palate is full bodied, with textured and richly flavored tropical fruit notes that lead to a warm vanilla-filled finish. The oak seems a bit heavy handed. | La Reyna Blanca Vineyard | 89 | 38.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Alleromb 2014 La Reyna Blanca Vineyard Chardonnay (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Chardonnay | Alleromb | |
| 570 | US | Aromas of sea salt, olive brine, smoked meat, herb and earth lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that run warm on the finish. There are plenty of good things going on but they don't seem to entirely come together. | Art Den Hoed Vineyard | 89 | 50.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Ardor 2015 Art Den Hoed Vineyard Syrah (Yakima Valley) | Syrah | Ardor | |
| 571 | US | This wine tastes fresh and brisk, like apricots and lemons, yet a silky-smooth texture adds depth and interest to make it more than just a one-note, fruity style of wine. It comes from an over-achieving winery located one county inland from Napa. | 89 | 25.0 | California | Yolo County | Central Valley | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Berryessa Gap 2015 Albariño (Yolo County) | Albariño | Berryessa Gap | ||
| 572 | Italy | Here's a mouthwatering, succulent red that arrives with aromas and flavors of juicy black cherry, licorice, white pepper and graphite. It's light bodied, fresh and savory, with solid but polished tannins. An almond note gives it a pleasantly bitter finish. It's made to be drunk young so enjoy soon. | 89 | 15.0 | Piedmont | Dolcetto d'Alba | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Brezza 2015 Dolcetto d'Alba | Dolcetto | Brezza | |||
| 573 | France | Fruity and ripe, the wine also has some solid structure to give it a core of dark tannins. The black-currant fruits are developing well, bringing their crispness to the party. Drink this wine from 2018. | 89 | 14.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Supérieur | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Bois Chantant 2015 Bordeaux Supérieur | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Bois Chantant | |||
| 574 | France | This bend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache is nevertheless very pale in hue. the nose hints at wet stone, thyme and bay leaf, while the medium-bodied palate delivers a harmonious blend of red berries and citrus. Long on the finish, with mouthwatering persistence. | Tradition | 89 | 11.0 | Rhône Valley | Costières de Nîmes | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Château de Campuget 2016 Tradition Rosé (Costières de Nîmes) | Rosé | Château de Campuget | ||
| 575 | France | This is a juicy wine with its red fruits and attractive acidity. The wood aging still shows, perhaps too strongly, but that fruit is already a major factor in the success of the wine. Drink from 2019. | 89 | 14.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Supérieur | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de l'Aubrade 2015 Bordeaux Supérieur | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château de l'Aubrade | |||
| 576 | France | From a Grand Cru estate, this second wine shows the same rich fruit and generous structure as the winery's first wine. It's just softer with an approachable character and generous black fruits that will enable it to mature relatively quickly. Drink from 2020. | Les Terrasses de Pressac | 89 | 37.0 | Bordeaux | Saint-Émilion | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de Pressac 2014 Les Terrasses de Pressac (Saint-Émilion) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château de Pressac | ||
| 577 | US | Ripe luscious black-cherry and berry notes lend heft to this bold concentrated rosé. It's just a shade off dry, but balances neatly, juxtaposing crisp acidity against lavish texture and a pleasantly clingy finish. | Pinot Noir | 89 | 17.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Chateau Lafayette Reneau 2016 Pinot Noir Rosé (Finger Lakes) | Rosé | Chateau Lafayette Reneau | ||
| 578 | France | A ripe perfumed wine with fine tannins as well as dense fruit. Blackberry flavors are up there along with the acidity and crisp aftertaste. It's a wine with a good future, ready to drink from 2018. | Château Jean de Bel Air | 89 | 15.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Maison Noble Saint Martin 2015 Château Jean de Bel Air (Bordeaux) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Maison Noble Saint Martin | ||
| 579 | US | This refreshing, well-structured wine offers vivid but light fruit flavors, a crisp balance and mouthwatering texture. It has lots of fresh citrus flavors that will pair well with salty meats and all kinds of seafood. | 89 | 13.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Cupcake 2016 Rosé (California) | Rosé | Cupcake | ||
| 580 | US | Two-thirds Chenin Blanc and one-third Grüner Veltliner, this wine opens with aromas of apple, white pepper, herb and spice. It brings a sense of freshness and purity, along with a rounded feel. | 89 | 18.0 | Washington | Washington | Washington Other | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Raconteur 2016 White (Washington) | White Blend | Raconteur | ||
| 581 | US | This one-of-a-kind in the state wine was fermented on skins for 12 days, giving it a light-orange color. The aromas leap up from the glass, with notes of spice, lychee, orange peel and mineral. The palate is dry and textured, with a rich but still sleek feel. Put it on the dinner table to see it shine. | Orange Oak Ridge Vineyard | 89 | 26.0 | Washington | Columbia Gorge (WA) | Washington Other | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Savage Grace 2016 Orange Oak Ridge Vineyard Gewürztraminer (Columbia Gorge (WA)) | Gewürztraminer | Savage Grace | |
| 582 | US | The aromas are so light you need to strain to get at them, with notes of vanilla, coffee and cherry. The palate brings plentiful coffee and cherry flavors that show a pleasing sense of texture. One wants more aromatically, but the palate delivers. | 89 | 18.0 | Washington | Wahluke Slope | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Seven Falls 2013 Merlot (Wahluke Slope) | Merlot | Seven Falls | ||
| 583 | US | This incredibly zesty and fruity bottling shows raspberry, lavender and white pepper on the nose. It's fun to sip, with snappy red fruits and hibiscus most prominent. Complexity comes from touches of rooibos tea and potpourri. It's still extremely youthful. | Unfiltered Estate | 89 | 32.0 | California | Santa Cruz Mountains | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Silvertip 2014 Unfiltered Estate Pinot Noir (Santa Cruz Mountains) | Pinot Noir | Silvertip | |
| 584 | Austria | That herbal, yeasty tang of Grüner is on display on the nose. The dry palate further brings out the earthy aspect with miso, stone, yeast and lemon. The body is light and balanced with a savory but diffuse finish. | 89 | 18.0 | Kamptal | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Steininger 2016 Grüner Veltliner (Kamptal) | Grüner Veltliner | Steininger | ||||
| 585 | US | This is an expressive example of this variety, especially considering the stainless steel aging. The aromas are bright, with notes of apple, pear and melon. The cantaloupe flavors are broad and fleshy, lingering on the finish. It brings a lot of appeal. | StevensSteel | 89 | 25.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Stevens 2016 StevensSteel Chardonnay (Yakima Valley) | Chardonnay | Stevens | |
| 586 | Austria | Although a flinty touch of reduction still hangs on the nose, freshness and verve await underneath. The palate is juicy, slight, dry and very refreshing. It offers a slender, lemony expression of Pinot Blanc with a clean-cut finish. | Classic | 89 | 18.0 | Steiermark | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Strauss 2016 Classic Pinot Blanc (Steiermark) | Pinot Blanc | Strauss | |||
| 587 | Austria | Notes of tart lemon peel appear on the nose. The lean and light body continues in that lemony vein with brisk freshness. This wine is light, with a slight texture made up of yeastiness and zesty lemon. Some notes of grass appear on the finish. Drink this light, dry wine soon. | Classic | 89 | 20.0 | Südsteiermark | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Strauss 2016 Classic Sauvignon Blanc (Südsteiermark) | Sauvignon Blanc | Strauss | |||
| 588 | US | It's always a treat to discover a good, well-made but not overpowering wine. This one has nothing in excess, just moderate and crisp fruit flavors with light spicy accents. An appetizing texture backed by good acidity leads to a clean, dry finish. This unoaked wine from northern California should be a crowd pleaser. | 89 | 18.0 | California | North Coast | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Trinity River 2015 Chardonnay | Chardonnay | Trinity River | |||
| 589 | Austria | A dark, smoky smudge seems to cover the red-cherry notes on the nose. The palate is juicy and light, with this red-cherry nature at its core. Easy and light, it's a perfect fruit-driven summer red. | 89 | Burgenland | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Umathum 2015 Zweigelt (Burgenland) | Zweigelt | Umathum | |||||
| 590 | US | Sweet honeysuckle, lime blossoms and honeydew show on the very flowery nose of this bottling from a newer property near the old mining town of Pozo. The sip tightens up smartly with Anjou pear and honeysuckle flavors, but it's the powerful acidity that makes for a compelling palate. | 89 | 17.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Vintage Cowboy 2016 Chardonnay (Paso Robles) | Chardonnay | Vintage Cowboy | ||
| 591 | Austria | Almost luscious pear aromas and notes of peardrop make for a very fruity nose. The palate has a fruity, lemony ease, while the body is slender, dry and has some spritz. The lemon freshness is vivid, brightening everything on this easy, fruity summer wine. | GV | 89 | 13.0 | Niederösterreich | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Winzer Krems 2016 GV Grüner Veltliner (Niederösterreich) | Grüner Veltliner | Winzer Krems | |||
| 592 | US | Purple fruit and wood spice intermingle on the aromas, along with clove, herb and baking spice, showing a touch of volatility. The fruit flavors are big and bold, bringing a sense of structure and liveliness. It's an intriguing example of the variety from an up-and-coming vineyard. | Summit View Vineyard | 89 | 41.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Kontos 2014 Summit View Vineyard Malbec (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Malbec | Kontos | |
| 593 | Austria | A hint of tropicality hovers above the nose, recalling passion fruit. The palate restricts itself to fresh lemon and green apple. This is light, dry, juicy and refreshing—ideal for a sunny day as a light apéritif. | 89 | 16.0 | Niederösterreich | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Landhaus Mayer 2016 Riesling (Niederösterreich) | Riesling | Landhaus Mayer | ||||
| 594 | France | This medium-bodied blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah is simple but satisfying. Ripe cherries and raspberries carry the load, dressed up by hints of vanilla and cinnamon. A soft dustiness marks the texture, turning silky on the finish. Drink now–2020. | La Decelle | 89 | 20.0 | Rhône Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Lavau 2015 La Decelle Red | Rhône-style Red Blend | Lavau | |||
| 595 | US | This is a true pan-Washington Cabernet, with fruit coming from 12 different vineyards scattered across the Columbia Valley. It's 100% varietal as aromas of char, toast, black cherry meats, herb, cranberry and spice are followed by elegantly styled dark-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a bit of heft and grip. | 89 | 30.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | L'Ecole No. 41 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | L'Ecole No. 41 | ||
| 596 | Greece | This indigenous Cretan variety shows its character in the deft hands of Lyrarakis, grown at high altitude. Aromas of fresh pineapple, citrus and flowers lead into pear, green apple and saline notes. Balanced and bright. | 89 | 13.0 | Crete | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Lyrarakis 2015 Vilana (Crete) | Vilana | Lyrarakis | ||||
| 597 | Austria | A touch of funky yeastiness plays on the nose before the lemon zestiness shines through. The palate is slender and light, focusing on that bright, fresh lemon note. This is easy, juicy and very refreshing. | Furth-Palt | 89 | 24.0 | Kremstal | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Malat 2016 Furth-Palt Riesling (Kremstal) | Riesling | Malat | |||
| 598 | US | Light and lively aromas of dried red berries, concentrated roses, cola and black plums show on the nose of this very accessible and pleasurable Sangiovese. The cohesive palate integrates cherry, cola and milk-chocolate flavors into an easy-drinking frame, perfect for barbecues or family-style Italian meals. | Starlight | 89 | 36.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Midnight 2013 Starlight Sangiovese (Paso Robles) | Sangiovese | Midnight | |
| 599 | US | An easy Cabernet, soft and fruity, great for drinking now, at a pretty good price. It's dry and gentle in the mouth, with some real complexity, combining ripe cherries and blackberries with suggestions of dried herbs, cocoa and tobacco. | 87 | 20.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Michael Pozzan 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon (Alexander Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Michael Pozzan | ||||
| 600 | Italy | Crisp and light with pretty mineral dustings behind the ripe peach and melon aromas, this Gavi shows a full and generous style. Its nicest quality is that it offers both softness in the mouth and elegance on the bouquet. | Le Marne | 87 | 19.0 | Piedmont | Gavi | Michele Chiarlo 2011 Le Marne (Gavi) | Cortese | Michele Chiarlo | ||||
| 601 | Mexico | Sauvignon Blanc is, in general, one of Baja's more consistent performers. This version is light in color, with varietally familiar aromas of nettle, grapefruit and passion fruit. It's a bit weighty, with apple, grapefruit and tropical flavors. A mild bitterness can be found on the finish. | Viña Kristel | 87 | 15.0 | Valle de Guadalupe | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Monte Xanic 2012 Viña Kristel Sauvignon Blanc (Valle de Guadalupe) | Sauvignon Blanc | Monte Xanic | |||
| 602 | US | There's plenty of ripe berry-cherry fruit, fine acids and big tannins on this Cab, but it just doesn't have the stuffing for the long haul. It is, however, a satisfying Cabernet, offering lots of elegance for drinking now and over the next few years. | 87 | 69.0 | California | Oak Knoll District | Napa | Paoletti 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon (Oak Knoll District) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Paoletti | ||||
| 603 | US | Ripe and luscious, this decadent Cabernet Franc is chock full of ripe red cherry and plum fruit, accented with purple violets and fresh herb tones. It's bold in alcohol and soft in style, but delicately framed by brisk acidity and a ruffle of feathery tannins. | 87 | 36.0 | New York | North Fork of Long Island | Long Island | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Peconic Bay Winery 2010 Cabernet Franc (North Fork of Long Island) | Cabernet Franc | Peconic Bay Winery | |||
| 604 | Spain | Bright red-fruit aromas are matched by dry spice and leathery scents. The feel on this blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is juicy and clampy, while flavors of red cherry, plum and currant come with a vanilla shading. This finishes crisp, with punchy acidity. | Reserva 1423 | 87 | 35.0 | Northern Spain | Navarra | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Príncipe de Viana 2008 Reserva 1423 Red (Navarra) | Red Blend | Príncipe de Viana | ||
| 605 | Argentina | Mild berry and cherry aromas are standard and slightly oaky. The palate on this blend of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah is choppy and tannic, while earthy flavors of cherry and plum are pushed by firm acids. This finishes tannic, with coffee and herbal flavors. | Gran Reserve Winemaker's Selection | 87 | 30.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Proemio 2009 Gran Reserve Winemaker's Selection Red (Mendoza) | Red Blend | Proemio | ||
| 606 | US | It's rare to find a varietally labeled Grenache that comes in under 13% alcohol, but here you have it. Blended with 10% Syrah, it has notes of white pepper, smoked meat, savory spices and red fruit. What it lacks in terms of depth it makes up for in purity and elegance. | Bomba | 87 | 25.0 | Oregon | Rogue Valley | Southern Oregon | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Quady North 2011 Bomba Grenache (Rogue Valley) | Grenache | Quady North | |
| 607 | US | Named after the blending of Steelhead Run and Ox vineyard blocks, this appealing wine is fresh and varietal with notes of ripe peach and herbs. Aged six months in stainless steel and coming in at a low 12% alcohol, the fruit concentration is lighter in style but still offers enjoyment. | Steel-Ox | 87 | 25.0 | Oregon | Rogue Valley | Southern Oregon | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Quady North 2011 Steel-Ox Viognier (Rogue Valley) | Viognier | Quady North | |
| 608 | Portugal | Verdelho and Sauvignon Blanc hangs together easily on this herb-dominant wine. The texture has a creamy character, showing green fruits, lively acidity and a bright orange-zest aftertaste. | Verdelho and Sauvignon Blanc | 87 | 15.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta do Portal 2012 Verdelho and Sauvignon Blanc White (Douro) | Portuguese White | Quinta do Portal | |||
| 609 | US | Grüner Veltliner, though still rare, shows good promise in Oregon. This is a big, sappy, ripe version that's borderline syrupy, with big flavors of peaches and apricots. But the supporting acids, and a lick of mineral, keep it from crashing. | Estate | 87 | 20.0 | Oregon | Chehalem Mountains | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Raptor Ridge 2012 Estate Grüner Veltliner (Chehalem Mountains) | Grüner Veltliner | Raptor Ridge | |
| 610 | US | A touch of oak adds a sweet, smoky creaminess to this wine, but it's really dominated by Sauvignon Blanc's acidity and racy spearmint and tropical fruit. The alcohol is moderate, making it easy to drink. | Charlotte's Home Estate | 87 | 17.0 | California | Northern Sonoma | Sonoma | Rodney Strong 2012 Charlotte's Home Estate Sauvignon Blanc (Northern Sonoma) | Sauvignon Blanc | Rodney Strong | |||
| 611 | US | This is a good Pinot Noir that's full-bodied, dry and silky in the mouth, with crisp acidity. It shows raspberry, cola and green tea flavors. Hard to predict if it has a future, so drink now–2014. | Toyon Farm | 87 | 54.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Saintsbury 2010 Toyon Farm Pinot Noir (Carneros) | Pinot Noir | Saintsbury | |||
| 612 | US | This is an easy, gentle wine that's a little soft, with superripe cherry, persimmon and red licorice flavors. Delicious in the California way, it's showing its best now. | Caverio | 87 | 40.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Sextant 2010 Caverio G-S-M (Paso Robles) | G-S-M | Sextant | |||
| 613 | Portugal | With its light prickle on the tongue, this is as fresh as possible. It's clean, packed with green and citrus fruits, and boosted with some textured richness. Drink at once. | Paço de São Lourenço | 87 | 12.0 | Vinho Verde | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Solar de Pinheiro 2012 Paço de São Lourenço White (Vinho Verde) | Portuguese White | Solar de Pinheiro | |||
| 614 | Italy | The dynamic sisters that run this estate deliver a clean and territory-driven line of white wines. This easy Soave Classico opens with peach, pear, citrus and a touch of fragrant honeysuckle flower. It's pure and focused overall. | 87 | 19.0 | Veneto | Soave Classico | Suavia 2011 Soave Classico | Garganega | Suavia | |||||
| 615 | Argentina | Four years running this wine has scored 87 and been a Best Buy. The bouquet is scratchy but nicely aromatic, including hints of spice to go with ripe berry scents. The palate is jammy and home to rooty berry, mild spice and very light oak flavors. The finish is a bit hot and fiery, which food will tame. | 87 | 11.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Tilia 2011 Malbec (Mendoza) | Malbec | Tilia | |||
| 616 | US | This Chardonnay wants time to warm and breathe in the glass, so don't pour it right from the fridge. After a little while it develops considerably in generosity, offering waves of tropical fruits, peaches and pears. The oak is pretty strong, even jarring. Give it a few years in the cellars to let everything knit together. | Dutton Ranch | 87 | 45.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | B Cellars 2011 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay (Russian River Valley) | Chardonnay | B Cellars | |||
| 617 | Italy | This bubbly Prosecco Superiore offers vibrant tones of white flower and cut grass followed by light touches of peach and honeydew melon. The mouthfeel is creamy and soft with a subtle touch of sweetness. | Millesimato Extra Dry | 87 | 25.0 | Veneto | Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore | Bacio della Luna 2012 Millesimato Extra Dry (Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore) | Glera | Bacio della Luna | ||||
| 618 | US | Softly delicious, this is a beautiful Merlot to drink now. It's a little hot in alcohol on the finish, but feels elegant in the mouth, offering waves of cherries, currants and mocha. | Unfiltered | 87 | 35.0 | California | Calistoga | Napa | Barlow 2009 Unfiltered Merlot (Calistoga) | Merlot | Barlow | |||
| 619 | Italy | Here's a Chardonnay-based sparkler from Piedmont that opens with bright tones of lemon and sweet grapefruit followed by yeasty tones of freshly baked bread. There's some bitter almond as well, which adds tartness to the finish. | Brut | 87 | 16.0 | Piedmont | Piedmont | Borgo Maragliano NV Brut Chardonnay (Piedmont) | Chardonnay | Borgo Maragliano | ||||
| 620 | Italy | Extra sweetness and density give this wine a full and generous personality. Dry Proseccos usually show a little extra peach juice and nectarine, as this wine does, without being heavy or cloying. | Dry | 87 | 20.0 | Veneto | Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore | Bortolotti NV Dry (Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore) | Glera | Bortolotti | ||||
| 621 | US | An easy Pinot Noir, but by no means lacking elegance. It shows the moderate body and crisp, citrusy acidity that usually marks Edna Valley Pinot Noir, with pure, direct flavors of sour-cherry candy, cola, cinnamon and toast. | 87 | 28.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Claiborne & Churchill 2010 Pinot Noir (Edna Valley) | Pinot Noir | Claiborne & Churchill | ||||
| 622 | US | Mostly Syrah, with just a dash of Petite Sirah (2%) and Petit Verdot (1%), this red from Sawtooth and Skyline vineyards brings light notes of smoked meat, chocolate, and flowers. The enjoyment here is mainly focused on mouthfeel, which is voluptuous and rich, leading to an open finish. | Sidewinder | 87 | 25.0 | Idaho | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Coiled 2009 Sidewinder Red | Red Blend | Coiled | |||
| 623 | US | This unusual blend of 85% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Petite Sirah comes together nicely, with the Syrah lending notes of cranberry and smoked meat and the Petit(e)s adding some heft to the plush texture and bitterness on the finish. | Black Mamba | 87 | 28.0 | Idaho | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Coiled 2010 Black Mamba Red | Red Blend | Coiled | |||
| 624 | US | Named after the Nez Perce name for the Clearwater River, this blend is mostly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with some Cabernet Franc and Syrah thrown in the mix. The aromas are light, with notes of berry and sweet spices. The cherry flavors are very soft, getting a bit attenuated on the back half on this otherwise pleasant red. | Koos-Koos-Kia Colter's Creek Vineyard | 87 | 20.0 | Idaho | Idaho | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Colter's Creek 2010 Koos-Koos-Kia Colter's Creek Vineyard Red (Idaho) | Red Blend | Colter's Creek | ||
| 625 | Italy | Here's a pure expression of the Garganega grape that sees (in part) 8 months of oak aging for extra density and thickness. The wine shows spicy notes of cinnamon and white pepper backed by peach and candied fruit. | 87 | 15.0 | Veneto | Soave | Corte Falco 2010 Soave | Garganega | Corte Falco | |||||
| 626 | Italy | Made with the indigenous Garganega grape (the same variety that makes Soave), this richly extracted white wine opens with an off-gold color and ripe notes of apricot and peach nectar. | Memorio Creari | 87 | 23.0 | Veneto | Gambellara Classico | Domenico Cavazza 2008 Memorio Creari (Gambellara Classico) | Garganega | Domenico Cavazza | ||||
| 627 | Italy | This pretty white wine from northern Italy opens with an ashy, mineral feel and segues to aromas of candied fruit, peach and citrus. It is nearing the end of its drinking window so don't bother putting this bottle aside. | Sivoy | 87 | 19.0 | Piedmont | Monferrato | Cascina La Ghersa 2009 Sivoy White (Monferrato) | White Blend | Cascina La Ghersa | ||||
| 628 | Australia | This plush, full-bodied wine is already delicious, delivering wave after wave of savory fruit flavor, something like soy-marinated, char-grilled beef. Tannins are supple enough to make this wine drinkable now, yet plentiful enough to suggest ample cellaring potential. Drink now-2030. | Alluvial Fans | 92 | 35.0 | South Australia | McLaren Vale | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Kangarilla Road 2012 Alluvial Fans Shiraz (McLaren Vale) | Shiraz | Kangarilla Road | ||
| 629 | US | Each year, this wine is intended to be an experiment. This vintage's creativity involves the addition of soil from the Santa Rita Hills to vineyards in the Russian River Valley. Yeasty on the nose, the result is rich and decadent, a wine that's juicy and velvety in black and red fruit and pillowy tannins. A warmth of spice lingers on the finish. | Pinpoint Extreme | 92 | 75.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Walt 2013 Pinpoint Extreme Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Walt | |
| 630 | US | From the oldest part of the estate, this subtle wine rewards your patience and full attention. Hints of rose petals adorn the floral accents, while the midpalate emphasizes flavors of raspberries and orange peel. At first a bit shy, this opens slowly and reveals hidden complexities and enduring length. Drink now through 2025. | Aliette | 92 | 48.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | WillaKenzie Estate 2013 Aliette Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | WillaKenzie Estate | ||
| 631 | France | Lifted notes of honey and rose petal play on the nose, the palate is altogether more lively than the nose suggests: sprightly and fresh, concentrated and caramel-tinged with lemon freshness. This strikes an appetizing, moreish palate and makes for joyful drinking. | Vendanges Tardives | 92 | 54.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Willm 2011 Vendanges Tardives Gewurztraminer (Alsace) | Gewürztraminer | Willm | ||
| 632 | France | Ripe fragrant, yellow mirabelle plums constitute the chief perfume of this charming wine. The palate holds even more fruity nuance but is dry, concentrated and linear, being carried forward by zesty freshness and lemony overtones. This is clean, charming, taut and dry with a bracing nature and a clean, brisk finish. | Wineck-Schlossberg Grand Cru | 92 | 34.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Jean-Marc Bernhard 2013 Wineck-Schlossberg Grand Cru Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Jean-Marc Bernhard | ||
| 633 | Australia | This full-bodied wine is rich without ever seeming overdone. Subtle smoke notes frame bold fruit—tangerine, pineapple and apricot—and gingery spice, while the finish is long, peppery and refreshing. Drink now–2020. | 92 | 60.0 | Victoria | Yarra Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Yeringberg 2013 Viognier (Yarra Valley) | Viognier | Yeringberg | |||
| 634 | US | From a two-acre block within the amazing Maple Vineyard planted in 1910, this wine also contains 10% Petite Sirah and 10% mixed blacks. Baked berry pie comes to mind first, conjuring up all things good and right in the world, topped in bourbon whipped cream and nutmeg. Good acidity buoys the proceedings. Drink now through 2021. | Tina's Block Maple Vineyard | 92 | 48.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Armida 2013 Tina's Block Maple Vineyard Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley) | Zinfandel | Armida | |
| 635 | Spain | Aromas of wood grain, vanilla, butter and fino Sherry are elegant and attractive for this style of white Rioja. On the palate, this oak-aged Viura is smooth, while creamy flavors of oak, apricot and peach excel. A smooth finish with plenty of vanilla and core acidity indicates this will age well for another 10 years. | Capellanía | 92 | 28.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Marqués de Murrieta 2010 Capellanía Viura (Rioja) | Viura | Marqués de Murrieta | ||
| 636 | Australia | The Torbreck wines, with the emphasis they place on ripeness, can sometimes be controversial. This one is full bodied and rich, with dense plum and chocolate notes that verge on being fudge-like. But those elements are lifted slightly by hints of mint and bacon. Mocha joins the party on the long finish. Drink now–2025. | The Factor | 92 | 125.0 | South Australia | Barossa Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Torbreck 2010 The Factor Shiraz (Barossa Valley) | Shiraz | Torbreck | ||
| 637 | France | A rather perfumed nose hints at the Gewurztraminer that colors this Riesling with rose petal and honeysuckle notes. The co-planted varieties in this vineyard make a smashing duo since they are almost polar opposites: structured, straight-laced Riesling with its fine spine of acidity benefits from the playfulness and charm of aromatic, fleshy Gewurztraminer which in turn is lit up by Riesling's freshness. Really, this is a case where you can have the best of both worlds. | Altenberg de Bergheim Grand Cru | 92 | 45.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Biecher & Schaal 2014 Altenberg de Bergheim Grand Cru White (Alsace) | Alsace white blend | Biecher & Schaal | ||
| 638 | France | A very subdued nose suggests some dried orange peel but the palate is full of life: there is bracing, bright and lemon-scented acidity on the dry palate and drenched stone. There is concentration and a texture of the finest, purest citrus oil. This is wonderfully mature and ready now but has the stuffing to last. Drink 2016–2020. | Kitterlé Grand Cru | 92 | 36.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Domaines Schlumberger 2010 Kitterlé Grand Cru Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Domaines Schlumberger | ||
| 639 | France | There are mere hints of beeswax and marzipan on the nose. The palate opens into a structured, bright and well-lit space of pear peel, pear juice and a wonderfully bitter edge. This is off-dry and concentrated, definite but with a light touch. There is an intriguing hint of bitter orange peel that draws you in and pull this onto a higher plane. | Kessler Grand Cru | 92 | 30.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Domaines Schlumberger 2012 Kessler Grand Cru Pinot Gris (Alsace) | Pinot Gris | Domaines Schlumberger | ||
| 640 | US | Yields tend to be low in this dry-farmed vineyard, which especially struggles during a drought, but the quality is fantastic. Aromas of browned toast, popcorn, Meyer-lemon pith, honey pollen and a mineral herbal chamomile character show on the nose. A vibrant chalkiness reveals itself on the sip, with lemon blossom and grapefruit pith keeping the palate tight, grippy and texturally zippy. | Tinaquaic Vineyard | 92 | 37.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Foxen 2014 Tinaquaic Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Maria Valley) | Chardonnay | Foxen | |
| 641 | US | Completely stainless-fermented and aged, this is a blockbuster of a white wine, refreshing and exotic in floral intoxication. Dry and light-bodied, it offers an edginess of slate-like minerality along with aromas of apricot and peach, finishing in a dusting of white pepper. | 92 | 25.0 | California | California | California Other | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Les Belles Collines 2014 Pinot Gris (California) | Pinot Gris | Les Belles Collines | ||
| 642 | Portugal | This is a new wine from the hands of master winemaker Luis Duarte. With its rich black fruits and dense tannins, it's also a wine that is firmly structured. Wood aging has added a layer of complexity and broadened out the fruits and dark tannins. Drink from 2017. | Monte de Carrapatelo Colheita Seleccionada Tinto | 92 | 30.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Luis Duarte 2013 Monte de Carrapatelo Colheita Seleccionada Tinto Red (Alentejano) | Portuguese Red | Luis Duarte | |||
| 643 | US | Creamy in texture and floral in aroma, this is a lovely and well-integrated white wine, with well-crafted characteristics of pear and honeyed apple. Medium bodied, it'll pair well at the table and on its own. | 92 | 60.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Melhill 2012 Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) | Chardonnay | Melhill | ||
| 644 | US | Boosted by 5% Petit Verdot, this bottling shows lush aromas of fudge, black plum, black currant, soy and black pepper. The palate is dense and thick with more black fruit as well as caramel, purple flowers, milk chocolate and mint-chip ice cream, proving concentrated and decadent. | Estate Grown | 92 | 40.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Niner 2013 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Niner | |
| 645 | US | Pommard and Wädenswil clones are combined here, yielding a stylish, well-defined wine with spicy berry fruit. Flavors punch through into a deep and detailed finish, with streaks of cola and caramel. The balance is spot-on. | Freedom Hill Vineyard | 92 | 50.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Purple Hands 2014 Freedom Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Purple Hands | |
| 646 | Portugal | As its name suggests this is a selection of barrels of Syrah and Touriga Nacional. It is rich, smooth and full of ripe fruit. The dusty tannins are in suspension, backing up the black plum and blueberry fruit flavors. Along with the juicy acidity, this is a wine to age. Drink from 2017. | Lagoalva Barrel Selection Tinto | 92 | 23.0 | Tejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta da Lagoalva de Cima 2013 Lagoalva Barrel Selection Tinto Red (Tejo) | Portuguese Red | Quinta da Lagoalva de Cima | |||
| 647 | Portugal | This is an impressive, powerful wine. It speaks of the hard landscape of the Douro Superior, with its structure and dark tannins. At the same time, ripe dark fruits push through the still-young tannins giving the potential for a rich, black fruit dominated wine. Predominantly Touriga Nacional (60 percent), this wine is a new venture created by João Nicolau d'Almeida (who has run Ramos-Pinto for many years) and his family. Drink from 2018. | 92 | 80.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta do Monte Xisto 2013 Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Quinta do Monte Xisto | ||||
| 648 | Germany | A spray of rose petals perfumes this aromatic spätlese. Its freshness is exhilarating, contrasting lavish layers of honey and marmalade against the sharp bites of pineapple, tangerine and lemon. Cutting and spry, yet deeply penetrating, it finishes on a lingering pollen note. | Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Spätlese Grosse Lage | 92 | 34.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt 2014 Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Spätlese Grosse Lage Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt | ||||
| 649 | US | With a smidgen of Petit Verdot, this dark, tight and leathery wine is exalted in tobacco, graphite and tar, still youthfully awkward and shy. The flavors lean savory into meaty aspects of currant and clove, waiting to find companionship in fruit. Drink now after a decant, or cellar through 2023. | Three Twins Vineyard Fallen Feather | 92 | 75.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Stone The Crows 2013 Three Twins Vineyard Fallen Feather Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Stone The Crows | |
| 650 | Italy | You'll find aromas of tomato leaf, passion fruit, crushed rock and green bell pepper on this radiant white. The bright, savory palate delivers tropical fruit, tangerine zest, dill, celery and mineral alongside tangy acidity. It's an extremely impressive showing for this challenging vintage. | 92 | 24.0 | Northeastern Italy | Collio | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Sturm 2014 Sauvignon (Collio) | Sauvignon | Sturm | |||
| 651 | France | Subtle notes of clean, fresh lemon zest promise pleasure, the palate reveals a far riper aspect of fresh red apple and baked apples. The dry palate remains zingy and clean and provides ample textured freshness. The effect is that of fresh apple sorbet. | Pfersigberg Grand Cru | 92 | 39.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Kuentz-Bas 2014 Pfersigberg Grand Cru Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Kuentz-Bas | ||
| 652 | Australia | Based on this example and a few other informal tastings, 2014 will be a top vintage for Rieslings from Western Australia. Aromas of lime sherbet and wet stone lead into a crisply focused palate loaded with citrusy tartness that lingers on the mouthwatering finish. Drink now with shellfish, and consider holding some for up to 10 years. | 92 | 21.0 | Western Australia | Great Southern | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Plantagenet 2014 Riesling (Great Southern) | Riesling | Plantagenet | |||
| 653 | US | Reserved red-cherry fruit aromas gain complexity with fog-soaked sagebrush, dried purple flowers and an earthy mushroom character on the nose. Roasted shiitake, marjoram, crushed Brazil nuts and a hint of cardamom play on the dark, spicy, earthy palate, laid across a bed of cranberry fruit. | 92 | 35.0 | California | Arroyo Seco | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Scratch 2013 Grenache (Arroyo Seco) | Grenache | Scratch | ||
| 654 | France | Freshly cut red, yellow and green apples make both nose and palate very fruity. The dry palate with its lemony freshness and open aspect lets all the apple flavors shine and inflects them here and there with baked and dried apple, too. Wonderfully fruity and pure. | Rosacker Grand Cru | 92 | 43.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Sipp Mack 2014 Rosacker Grand Cru Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Sipp Mack | ||
| 655 | US | This is one of the best balanced and most elegant Zins around. Very fresh in aroma, it's slightly yeasty like freshly fermented wine, and with subtly gorgeous cherry and blackberry flavors layered with light cedar and cocoa spiciness. Not only is the finish lingering, but the wine still tasted great two days after pulling the cork. | Lodi Native Marian's Vineyard | 92 | 30.0 | California | Mokelumne River | Central Valley | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | St. Amant 2013 Lodi Native Marian's Vineyard Zinfandel (Mokelumne River) | Zinfandel | St. Amant | |
| 656 | US | This cuvée is made with the oldest Pommard clones in the estate vineyard. It's a sharp-edged, reserve-level wine with a defining streak of peppery herb. The black fruits and barrel flavors of licorice, espresso and dark chocolate promise further depth as it ages. Drink 2020–2030. | Nancy's | 92 | 70.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Stoller 2013 Nancy's Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Noir | Stoller | |
| 657 | South Africa | The 2011 Night Sky shows more earthy character than the 2012, as upfront aromas of soil, blackberry leaf and pepper are grounded by ripe fruit tones of black currant, plum and mulberry. Medium weight on the palate, with velvety tannins that grip through the long, spicy finish. The dense, tight mouthfeel, firm structure and overall balance suggest this wine will age well through 2022. | Night Sky | 92 | 50.0 | Coastal Region | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Fable Mountain 2011 Night Sky Red (Coastal Region) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Fable Mountain | |||
| 658 | 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. | 90 | 40.0 | California | Los Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Vine Cliff 2013 Chardonnay (Los Carneros) | Chardonnay | Vine Cliff | ||
| 659 | US | This wine brings aromas of blackberry, dates and spice. The palate displays abundant cherry flavors with lightly chalky tannins. | 90 | 45.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Va Piano 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Va Piano | ||
| 660 | US | Syrupy thick at first, decadent enough for a king, this rich red is defined by vanilla French toast and blackberry jam aromas and flavors. It finds balance midway through on the palate, veering into crisper red tones of cranberry and rhubarb. Time will help mellow things out. Cellar through 2020. | Le Roi Soleil | 90 | 80.0 | California | Mount Veeder | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Y Rousseau 2012 Le Roi Soleil Cabernet Sauvignon (Mount Veeder) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Y Rousseau | |
| 661 | US | Livelier than usual in texture and popping with bright citrus aromas and flavors, this light-bodied and barrel-fermented wine is a great palate-cleanser and will pair beautifully with dishes like raw oysters and herbed goat cheese. It smells and tastes like lemon, lime, green apple and kiwi, and has great balance. | 90 | 15.0 | California | Mendocino | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Monte Volpe 2013 Pinot Grigio (Mendocino) | Pinot Grigio | Monte Volpe | |||
| 662 | Italy | Aromas of red berry, rose and cake spices lead the way on this ripe, forward Barolo. The round palate offers black cherry, raspberry, licorice and white pepper alongside polished tannins. It's already extremely accessible, so don't leave it in the cellar for too long. Drink 2016–2021. | Ornato | 90 | 65.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Palladino 2011 Ornato (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Palladino | ||
| 663 | US | Ripe black cherry and vanilla swirl around notes of cedar and dusty tannins, combining seamlessly on the palate. From an appellation not known for the variety, it does justice to mountain fruit and power, finishing with substance. | Rockpile Vineyard | 90 | 65.0 | California | Rockpile | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Paradise Ridge 2012 Rockpile Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Rockpile) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Paradise Ridge | |
| 664 | Italy | This structured Dolcetto offers aromas of blue- and black-skinned fruit, violet, chopped herbs and kitchen spices. The vibrant palate delivers black cherry, black currant, clove, tobacco and anise while firm, refined tannins provide the framework. | Siri d'Jermu | 90 | 35.0 | Piedmont | Dogliani Superiore | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Pecchenino 2013 Siri d'Jermu (Dogliani Superiore) | Dolcetto | Pecchenino | ||
| 665 | Italy | Fruity aromas of mature berry mingle with notes of dark cooking spice and chopped herbs on this savory, medium-bodied red. The round, concentrated palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove and tobacco framed in firm acidity and a velvety texture. | Costa Bruna | 90 | 25.0 | Piedmont | Barbera d'Alba | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Poderi Colla 2013 Costa Bruna (Barbera d'Alba) | Barbera | Poderi Colla | ||
| 666 | US | This warm-vintage wine is more aromatically reticent than recent vintages, with notes of stone fruit, slate and mineral. It drinks a hair off dry, with depth to the lightly spritzy fruit flavors and razor-sharp acidity. | 90 | 20.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Poet's Leap 2014 Riesling (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Riesling | Poet's Leap | ||
| 667 | Spain | Perfumed plum and raspberry aromas are slightly earthy and leathery. This is medium-to-full in body, with smooth, chunky tannins. Earthy, lightly baked plum and wild-berry flavors finish loamy and expansive. Drink through 2017. | Soplo | 90 | 15.0 | Levante | Valencia | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Rafael Cambra 2012 Soplo Garnacha Tintorera (Valencia) | Garnacha Tintorera | Rafael Cambra | ||
| 668 | US | While dry in style, this lithe, delicately framed Riesling packs a punch of ripe, rich tropical fruit. It's blossomy and buoyantly fruity, yet brashly mineral as well. Made using “virgin berries”, uniquely seedless grapes with a tendency towards exuberant aroma and flavor concentration. | Virgin Berry | 90 | 26.0 | New York | North Fork of Long Island | Long Island | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Raphael 2014 Virgin Berry Riesling (North Fork of Long Island) | Riesling | Raphael | ||
| 669 | US | All varietal, this wine offers unique aromas of toast, fig, dried herb and exotic spice. The purple fruit flavors are deft in style with a pleasing sense of balance, length and texture. | McClellan Estate Vineyard | 90 | 30.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Seven Hills 2013 McClellan Estate Vineyard Malbec (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Malbec | Seven Hills | |
| 670 | US | Dark berry, herb and fig aromas lead to dense, full and palate-coating dark fruit flavors. It checks all the boxes for varietal correctness, concentration and value. | Eco Made with Organic Grapes | 90 | 13.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Snoqualmie 2013 Eco Made with Organic Grapes Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Snoqualmie | |
| 671 | US | The winery's larger bottling of the variety, one it has mastered for decades, this wine is a mix of baked plum and rustic leather notes. It's softly tannic, with pronounced jolts of tobacco and black pepper. With small amounts of other Rhône varieties, from Syrah to Viognier, it meanders to the finish, with a distinct trace of minerality. | 90 | 45.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Stags' Leap Winery 2012 Petite Sirah (Napa Valley) | Petite Sirah | Stags' Leap Winery | ||
| 672 | US | Similarly to it's Virgin Berry sibling, Roth's regular label Dry Riesling has a distinctly green, woodsy tone lending an alpine feel to sweet-tart peach and apricot flavors. It's brisk and fine-footed, yet zesty tangerine and grapefruit acidity persist long on the finish. | Dry | 90 | 26.0 | New York | Long Island | Long Island | Anna Lee C. Iijima | The Grapes of Roth 2014 Dry Riesling (Long Island) | Riesling | The Grapes of Roth | ||
| 673 | US | This is a full-bodied and full-flavored wine with rich and deep aromas, ripe fruit flavors and a texture that feels substantial but polished. It starts with black cherry and woodsy aromas, then goes to lively but broad cherry, plum and nutmeg notes. The finish stays flavorful and dry. | Charles Vineyard | 90 | 44.0 | California | Anderson Valley | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | The Withers Winery 2013 Charles Vineyard Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley) | Pinot Noir | The Withers Winery | ||
| 674 | US | From a knoll in Carneros, oft thought of as chilly for Cabernet, this wine exhibits cooler aspects of the variety, from pencil lead and cedar to dried herb. It is complemented by fruitier characteristics of cassis and plum, finishing in dusty, structured tannins. Cellar through 2017–2020. | Estate | 90 | 38.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Truchard 2012 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Carneros) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Truchard | |
| 675 | US | Smoky cinnamon and nutmeg pierce the entry of this wine, a dense, full-bodied expression of place. Layers of rich cherry and strawberry lie over classic varietal earthiness, finishing medium in length. | 90 | 28.0 | California | Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Acacia 2013 Pinot Noir (Carneros) | Pinot Noir | Acacia | ||
| 676 | US | Otis Harlan Vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills provides the fruit for this wine. Distinctive aromas of lees, almond, toast and grass lead to creamy stone-fruit flavors that show persistence on the finish. | Dijon Clone | 90 | 32.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Array 2012 Dijon Clone Chardonnay (Yakima Valley) | Chardonnay | Array | |
| 677 | Italy | Full-bodied and concentrated, this opens with aromas of crushed black plum, spicy blueberry, vanilla and dried sage. The dense, warm palate delivers dried black cherry, blackberry extract, oak and black pepper alongside velvety tannins. The soft acidity shows the heat of the vintage, so enjoy soon. | Smeriglio Riserva | 90 | 50.0 | Tuscany | Cortona | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Baracchi Riccardo 2011 Smeriglio Riserva Syrah (Cortona) | Syrah | Baracchi Riccardo | ||
| 678 | Italy | Aromas of dark-skinned fruit, cedar and allspice lead the nose on this smooth, full-bodied red. The structured palate doles out mature black currant, black cherry, peppercorn and espresso that follow through to the finish. Soft acidity and ripe, firm tannins provide the framework. Drink 2016–2022. | Smeriglio | 90 | 35.0 | Tuscany | Cortona | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Baracchi Riccardo 2012 Smeriglio Syrah (Cortona) | Syrah | Baracchi Riccardo | ||
| 679 | US | Brooding aromas of barrel spice, black cherry, coffee bean and herb lead to tart, focused fruit and barrel flavors that linger. | Sagemoor | 90 | 35.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Barrister 2012 Sagemoor Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Barrister | |
| 680 | Spain | Plum, prune and raspberry aromas are solid. This shows a bright, juicy palate along with traditional Rioja flavors of vanilla, tobacco, savory oak and dried red-berry fruits. Drink through 2018. | Selección Crianza | 90 | 25.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Bodegas Berceo 2011 Selección Crianza (Rioja) | Tempranillo Blend | Bodegas Berceo | ||
| 681 | US | All Syrah, this blend of Yakima Valley and Wahluke Slope fruit offers aromas and flavors of cocoa, vanilla, pepper and dark cherry. The pleasing interplay of fruit and barrel comes with a soft, pillowy feel. | ALX | 90 | 42.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Bunnell 2011 ALX Syrah (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Syrah | Bunnell | |
| 682 | Italy | Made entirely with Pinot Nero, this elegant sparkler offers aromas of rose and red berry. The vibrant, focused palate delivers cherry, strawberry and a hint of cake spices alongside bright acidity and an elegant perlage. | Metodo Classico | 90 | 45.0 | Piedmont | Piemonte | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Castello di Neive 2011 Metodo Classico Pinot Nero (Piemonte) | Pinot Nero | Castello di Neive | ||
| 683 | Italy | Aromas of underbrush, charred earth and a hint of cedar lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. The extracted palate delivers mature black currant, dried blackberry, espresso and black pepper alongside dusty tannins. | Cignale | 90 | 70.0 | Tuscany | Colli della Toscana Centrale | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Castello di Querceto 2010 Cignale Red (Colli della Toscana Centrale) | Red Blend | Castello di Querceto | ||
| 684 | US | This wine is aromatically reserved with notes of milk chocolate, char, berry, barrel spices and high-toned herbs. It's silky and polished in feel, with richness and elegance to the coffee flavors. | Canoe Ridge Vineyard | 90 | 30.0 | Washington | Horse Heaven Hills | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Chateau Ste. Michelle 2012 Canoe Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Horse Heaven Hills) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Chateau Ste. Michelle | |
| 685 | US | This wine pushes the notion of low alcohol, giving soft and subtle an extreme definition. As such, it will not please everyone. Earthy spice and an exotic notion of orange blossom dance around a light, clear body and high-toned minerality. It hails from a foggy, shaded vineyard in Freestone. | Emmaline Ann Vineyard | 90 | 75.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Cobb 2012 Emmaline Ann Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | Cobb | |
| 686 | Italy | This opens with aromas of underbrush, leather, berry and a balsamic note. The forward palate offers dried cherry, white pepper, tobacco and the warmth of alcohol alongside firm tannins. Drink this sooner rather than later. | Acclivi | 90 | 53.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Comm. G. B. Burlotto 2011 Acclivi (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Comm. G. B. Burlotto | ||
| 687 | US | Straw-yellow in the glass, this wine from organically grown, nearly 35-year-old vines shows iodine, citrus pith, yogurt and seared lemon peels in the restrained, minerally nose. The even-keeled, focused palate seamlessly integrates dairy elements with tangerine rinds and a mellow acidity. | Gravel Ridge Vineyard | 90 | 29.0 | California | Santa Cruz Mountains | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Cooper-Garrod 2012 Gravel Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Cruz Mountains) | Chardonnay | Cooper-Garrod | |
| 688 | US | This appealing wine displays aromas of cherry, plum, cocoa, pencil lead and Mounds Bar. It's reserved in style with tart cranberry and cherry flavors, showing a good sense of acid balance along with grainy tannins. | Reserve 34 | 91 | 90.0 | Washington | Red Mountain | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Mosquito Fleet 2011 Reserve 34 Cabernet Sauvignon (Red Mountain) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Mosquito Fleet | |
| 689 | US | From vineyards in the high-desert Cuyama Valley comes this blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Tempranillo, 20% Grenache and 15% Petite Sirah. On the nose, it shows chopped fresh mint, rose blossoms, fennel, black cherries and teriyaki beef jerky. Black pepper and soy mark the palate, along with blackberry juice and a slate-driven minerality. | Quattro Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard | 91 | 35.0 | California | Santa Barbara County | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Nadia 2012 Quattro Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard Red (Santa Barbara County) | Red Blend | Nadia | |
| 690 | Austria | Still closed, this is redolent of the elegant, nutty notes of new French oak which nonetheless complement the ripe but supple cherry fruit. The tannins are superfine and the addition of peppery Zweigelt to this Cabernet-Merlot blend lends spice and verve to the mix. This was made for the long run, so give it some bottle age and allow it to meld into its elegant self. Drink from 2018. | Nit'ana | 91 | 35.0 | Burgenland | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Nittnaus Hans und Christine 2013 Nit'ana Red (Burgenland) | Red Blend | Nittnaus Hans und Christine | |||
| 691 | US | This deep-colored, full-bodied red gets a little swagger in its step from enticing smoky oak aromas and powerful black-fruit flavors that also carry that spicy oak streak. This is brash enough for slow-cooked barbecue but sophisticated enough for osso buco. The texture is fine-grained from supportive tannin, and the finish lingers. Best now through 2018. | Ghielmetti Vineyard Micro-lot Reserve | 91 | 50.0 | California | Livermore Valley | Central Coast | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Nottingham Cellars 2012 Ghielmetti Vineyard Micro-lot Reserve Malbec (Livermore Valley) | Malbec | Nottingham Cellars | |
| 692 | Italy | Made with Sangiovese blended with 10% Ciliegiolo and 5% Alicante Bouschet, this savory wine opens with aromas of underbrush, ripe berry, tobacco leaf and Mediterranean herb. The vibrant, refined palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, orange peel, licorice and white pepper alongside supple tannins. It closes on a mineral note. Enjoy through 2020. | Capatosta | 91 | 35.0 | Tuscany | Morellino di Scansano | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Poggio Argentiera 2012 Capatosta (Morellino di Scansano) | Red Blend | Poggio Argentiera | ||
| 693 | US | Although the fine mountain site straddles both Napa and Sonoma, this wine's fruit is all Sonoma, the bulk of it Cabernet Franc, with 17% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dried cranberry shows on the nose and palate, followed by chalky tannins and a refined use of oak, finishing in a bite of currant and cherry. Enjoy through 2017. | 91 | 65.0 | California | Sonoma County | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Pride Mountain 2012 Cabernet Franc (Sonoma County) | Cabernet Franc | Pride Mountain | ||
| 694 | South Africa | This is a well-balanced, well-structured white wine that's sure to evolve through 2020, at least. It's certainly attractive now, with subtle toasty notes of sweet spice and wood-grilled apple alongside hints of kiwi, sweet grass, green plum and lime. The medium-weight palate offers ample acidity and a streak of minerality that keeps things fresh and lifted through the softly spiced finish. | Reserve | 91 | 50.0 | Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Reyneke 2013 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc (Stellenbosch) | Sauvignon Blanc | Reyneke | |||
| 695 | Italy | Aromas of violet, iris, forest floor, woodland berry and allspice lead the nose on this structured, savory wine. The concentrated palate delivers ripe black cherry, mocha, clove, tobacco and licorice alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity. It's firm and well balanced. | Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione | 91 | 43.0 | Tuscany | Chianti Classico | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Ruffino 2010 Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione (Chianti Classico) | Red Blend | Ruffino | ||
| 696 | New Zealand | The Dillons Point subregion of Marlborough often produces particularly pungent examples of Sauvignon Blanc, but this wine doesn't quite hew to that mold. The herbal notes are prominent but well mannered, backed by plenty of mild citrus—think white grapefruit—and melon. Ample weight, a silky texture and a lengthy finish complete the package. | Pioneer Block 20 Dillons Point Cash Block | 91 | 28.0 | Marlborough | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Saint Clair 2014 Pioneer Block 20 Dillons Point Cash Block Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) | Sauvignon Blanc | Saint Clair | |||
| 697 | Austria | Lively notes of fresh yellow plum and mandarin open up into a friendly, fresh palate that combines rich fruit and zingy citrus to great effect. The result is lip-smacking freshness with lots of midpalate concentration and zing. | von Gösing | 91 | Wagram | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Soellner 2014 von Gösing Roter Veltliner (Wagram) | Roter Veltliner | Soellner | ||||
| 698 | US | Aromas of dark chocolate, dried and fresh herbs, raspberries and black cherry predominate on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Creamy, rich and focused, it has a pleasing sense of texture and vanilla flavors that carry across the finish. It's truly a standout wine at this price. | Little Bear Creek | 91 | 20.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Woodinville Wine Cellars 2012 Little Bear Creek Red (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Woodinville Wine Cellars | |
| 699 | South Africa | This classic, iconic Pinotage opens with dense aromas of pressed purple violets, forest berries, raspberry sauce and fudge brownie. The lush and decadent palate offers more of the same, with a crushed velvet texture and final notes of licorice and toasted spice that linger long. It's delicious now, but should hold well through 2022. | Estate Wine | 91 | 40.0 | Simonsberg-Stellenbosch | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Kanonkop 2012 Estate Wine Pinotage (Simonsberg-Stellenbosch) | Pinotage | Kanonkop | |||
| 700 | Argentina | Intriguing aromas of lavender, hoja santa and green tobacco blend nicely with blackberry and blueberry scents. This top-flight Bonarda feels lush and only moderately tannic. Blackberry, leather and mild briny flavors finish minty and lightly herbal. Drink now. | 91 | 30.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | El Enemigo 2012 Bonarda (Mendoza) | Bonarda | El Enemigo | |||
| 701 | France | Always released after a further year's aging, this rich and full-bodied wine is now at its peak. With a dense texture, layers of spice and vanilla as well as intense red fruits, this powerful wine expresses the more complex side of Provence rosé. Drink now. | Les Clans | 91 | 65.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château d'Esclans 2013 Les Clans Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Château d'Esclans | ||
| 702 | France | Produced by the owners of Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate Château Mont-Redon, this is a full and fruity wine. It has a good balance between acidity and red berry fruits that give a rich character. Packed with flavor, it's ready to drink. | 91 | 17.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Riotor 2014 Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Château Riotor | |||
| 703 | France | While the wine is really pale in color, it does have a great range of flavors, offering red fruit notes balanced by beautiful acidity and citrus streaks. It's gently textured, giving a good bite to the fruitiness at the end. | 91 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Sainte Marguerite 2014 Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Château Sainte Marguerite | ||||
| 704 | France | This rich and impressive wine has structure and a firm texture, partly from the Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend (45% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon). It is dense and full of juicy red fruits, caramel and delicious spice. Production is only 2,500 cases. It would be worth aging for a few more months, so drink from late 2015. | 91 | 20.0 | Provence | Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Vignelaure 2014 Rosé (Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence) | Rosé | Château Vignelaure | |||
| 705 | New Zealand | Classic gooseberry and pink grapefruit notes feature gentle herbal nuances on the nose. There's ample weight and texture on the palate, with a burst of mouthwatering citrus on the finish. | 91 | 28.0 | Marlborough | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Cloudy Bay 2014 Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) | Sauvignon Blanc | Cloudy Bay | ||||
| 706 | France | Very fruity and fresh, this wine has crisp apples as well as red fruit giving it a bright, delicious feeling. The acidity goes right through the wine, giving a beautifully fresh feel that points up the fragrant raspberries. Vineyards are in the heart of the sandy soils of the Saint Tropez peninsula. | TwoB | 91 | 20.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine de la Bastide Blanche 2014 TwoB Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Domaine de la Bastide Blanche | ||
| 707 | France | Rounded and soft, this rich rosé is fruity while also perfumed. The blending of Syrah in the mix gives the wine a sense of power and concentration, making it an adquate partner at the dinner table. | L'Esprit de Provence | 91 | 20.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Grand Cros 2014 L'Esprit de Provence Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Domaine du Grand Cros | ||
| 708 | France | This wine is full in the mouth with a taste between pepper and fruit. It's ripe, rounded and tangy with clementine zest as well crisp apples and red currants. It could benefit from a few months in bottle, so drink from late 2015. | VieVité Extraordinaire | 91 | 25.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Sainte-Marie 2014 VieVité Extraordinaire Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | Domaine Sainte-Marie | ||
| 709 | US | Only the second vintage of this vineyard-designate wine from an estate property, this bottling offers spicy cherry, black tea and dried herb, backed by oaky backbone and structure. Dark chocolate and leather play on the palate in subtle waves, hitting their strides on the finish. Cellar through 2020. | DCV2 Estate Four Clones Vineyard | 91 | 38.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Dry Creek Vineyard 2012 DCV2 Estate Four Clones Vineyard Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley) | Zinfandel | Dry Creek Vineyard | |
| 710 | New Zealand | As typical for Dry River Pinots, this one is pretty surly in its youth. Intense and astringent, it packs layers of dusty black-cherry fruit into a tightly coiled frame. Try after 2019. | 91 | 120.0 | Martinborough | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Dry River 2013 Pinot Noir (Martinborough) | Pinot Noir | Dry River | ||||
| 711 | US | Floral and herbal from the get-go, this medium-bodied white from a great vineyard offers a lot to like. Stainless-steel fermentation gives it a lean underbelly, rounded out by sharp Meyer lemon and tangerine, buoyed by mouthwatering acidity. Green apple and an accent of honey peak on the finish. | Cohen Vineyard Dutton Ranch | 91 | 23.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Dutton Estate 2013 Cohen Vineyard Dutton Ranch Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Dutton Estate | |
| 712 | US | Light in color and weight, this vineyard-designate conveys a wealth of rose petals, earth and bright, crisp red cherry. Compellingly layered and shy, it defines the term ethereal. The finish is medium in length and accented in spicy cardamom. | Keefer Ranch | 91 | 48.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Failla 2013 Keefer Ranch Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Failla | |
| 713 | US | This wine combines fruit from both cool and warm sites, which in the vintage might have both leaned on the warmer side. Black fruit and licorice give it a burly character at first. Decanting or letting the wine open in the glass will help, but still it retains smooth, velvety tannins and resolved oak. | Dichotomy | 91 | 32.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Friedeman 2013 Dichotomy Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Friedeman | |
| 714 | New Zealand | Alluring notes of Asian five spice and wet stone frame ripe cherry aromas in this medium-bodied wine. The texture is firm, becoming faintly dusty on the finish, but the wine is approachable now for its cherry fruit and appealing damp clay quality. Drink now–2018. | Bannockburn | 91 | 50.0 | Central Otago | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Akarua 2012 Bannockburn Pinot Noir (Central Otago) | Pinot Noir | Akarua | |||
| 715 | Argentina | Sweet oak and vanilla aromas are front and center on a jammy bouquet that also features black plum and blackberry scents. This blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Tannat feels full, lifted and balanced. Ripe, enticing flavors of wild berry and cassis are backed by toast, chocolate, vanilla and coconut notes as well as heat and burn. Drink through 2019. | Trisagio Malbec-Petit Verdot-Tannat | 91 | 28.0 | Mendoza Province | Valle de Uco | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Benvenuto de la Serna 2010 Trisagio Malbec-Petit Verdot-Tannat Red (Valle de Uco) | Red Blend | Benvenuto de la Serna | ||
| 716 | New Zealand | Even Carrick's entry-level wine has turned out well in 2013, offering a sturdy, robust mouthful of dark fruit. Plum, espresso and dark chocolate mingle on the nose and palate, while the finish is long, faintly dusty and mouthwatering. Drink 2017–2025. | Unravelled | 91 | 30.0 | Central Otago | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Carrick 2013 Unravelled Pinot Noir (Central Otago) | Pinot Noir | Carrick | |||
| 717 | France | An addition to the worldwide JCB brand, produced by the Boisset family of Burgundy, this feels rich and sumptuous, full of ripe red fruits and juicy plums. It is also balanced and well structured. Drink this wine with food. | No. 5 | 91 | 25.0 | Provence | Côtes de Provence | Roger Voss | @vossroger | JCB 2014 No. 5 Rosé (Côtes de Provence) | Rosé | JCB | ||
| 718 | Portugal | Heading nicely in the crisp and aromatic direction, this is a light and bright wine. It has a citrus flavor that is balanced by richer pear and plum fruits. The wine is ready to drink. | Bote Chardonnay-Fernão Pires-Vital | 85 | 8.0 | Lisboa | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Casca Wines 2015 Bote Chardonnay-Fernão Pires-Vital White (Lisboa) | Portuguese White | Casca Wines | |||
| 719 | France | This soft wine has a gentle texture and smooth white fruits. It is fruity and lightly perfumed. With its crisp edge of acidity, is totally ready to drink. | Grande Réserve du Président | 85 | 15.0 | Burgundy | Mâcon-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Cave de Viré 2015 Grande Réserve du Président (Mâcon-Villages) | Chardonnay | Cave de Viré | ||
| 720 | Portugal | Onion skin orange in color, this is a full and fat wine. It has attractive red-berry fruit and just the right amount of acidity to keep it fresh and crisp. Drink now. | 85 | 22.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Cortes de Cima 2015 Rosé (Alentejano) | Rosé | Cortes de Cima | ||||
| 721 | Argentina | Saucy berry and tea aromas are herbal, earthy and stewed. This feels full but syrupy. Flavors of cooked berry, molasses and mocha finish sweet and soupy, with only a touch of acidic offset. | 85 | 14.0 | Mendoza Province | Tupungato | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Domaine Bousquet 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Tupungato) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Domaine Bousquet | |||
| 722 | Argentina | Mushy citrus and papaya aromas are waxy and lack pop. Angular and lemony in feel, this varietal white offers a one-note flavor profile based on lemon. A ringing, citric finish affords for a hint of tropical fruit. | 85 | 25.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Mendel 2015 Semillon (Mendoza) | Sémillon | Mendel | |||
| 723 | Portugal | In a medium sweet style, the wine has a light prickle and fine citrus acidity to balance the soft freshness. It is a refreshing wine, totally drinkable immediately. | Santola | 85 | 8.0 | Vinho Verde | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Messias 2015 Santola White (Vinho Verde) | Portuguese White | Messias | |||
| 724 | US | Peach, banana peel and a slight petrol note show mildly on the nose. The round palate boasts tart peach, pineapple rind and bitter lemon zest. | Mont Sec Vineyards | 85 | 14.0 | Texas | Texas | Alexander Peartree | Mont Sec 2015 Mont Sec Vineyards Viognier (Texas) | Viognier | Mont Sec | |||
| 725 | Italy | This has aromas that recall leafy underbrush, sawdust and menthol. The dense, oak-driven palate shows licorice, espresso, toast and a hint of bitter chocolate but the fruit has dried up. It abruptly ends on a green note of powdered sage. | Meriame | 85 | 80.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Paolo Manzone 2012 Meriame (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Paolo Manzone | ||
| 726 | Portugal | A rose pink colored wine that is dry and with ripe fruit. Its acidity contrasts with the warm red-berry fruit and the edge of tannin. There is a peppery, crisp aftertaste. | Casa de Paços | 85 | 9.0 | Vinho Verde | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta de Paços 2015 Casa de Paços Rosé (Vinho Verde) | Rosé | Quinta de Paços | |||
| 727 | US | Light strawberry fruit carries an undertone of dried grass. It turns a little sour in the mouth, but it's fine for the price. | 85 | 13.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Rascal 2014 Pinot Noir (Oregon) | Pinot Noir | Rascal | ||
| 728 | Argentina | Initial aromas of lychee and jasmine are varietally correct but this struggles to stay fresh and instead turns oily on the nose. A mid-level palate holds nectarine, lychee and oily flavors that turn bitter on the finish. | Reserva | 85 | 17.0 | Other | Salta | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Terrazas de Los Andes 2015 Reserva Torrontés (Salta) | Torrontés | Terrazas de Los Andes | ||
| 729 | Portugal | The wine is ripe with apple and creamed pear flavors. It is warm, rich and missing acidity. There is an attractive almond and spice character to this ripe wine. Drink now. | Audaz Branco | 85 | 10.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Herdade Grande 2015 Audaz Branco White (Alentejano) | Portuguese White | Herdade Grande | |||
| 730 | US | This wine looks, smells and tastes on the light side. Herb and red-cherry aromas precede rather lean flavors from cherry to clove and dill, and a brisk texture with some tannic grip. | 85 | 16.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Jack's House 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (California) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Jack's House | ||
| 731 | France | Here is a simple but tasty Chard, offering attractive notes of pear, spiced orange and toasted apple skin on the nose and mouth. It's light weight and well balanced, with ample acidity and a short but clean finish. Enjoy now. | Bin 068 | 85 | 10.0 | France Other | Vin de France | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Kiwi Cuvée 2014 Bin 068 Chardonnay (Vin de France) | Chardonnay | Kiwi Cuvée | ||
| 732 | France | This is a soft and jammy wine with attractive ripe strawberry fruit and only the lightest structure. It is gentle, rounded and ready to drink. | Mont-Avril | 85 | 22.0 | Burgundy | Côte Chalonnaise | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Michel Goubard 2014 Mont-Avril (Côte Chalonnaise) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Michel Goubard | ||
| 733 | France | This wine is extracted and tough. The acidity does come through to help out, although it still has a hard edge with some bitter toast. It will soften, leaving some perfumed fruit for the future. | 85 | 40.0 | Burgundy | Chorey-lès-Beaune | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Poulleau Père et Fils 2014 Chorey-lès-Beaune | Pinot Noir | Domaine Poulleau Père et Fils | |||
| 734 | Argentina | Raisiny and earthy on the nose, this Bonarda also offers damp aromas of fern and tobacco. Chunky, with a soft, flat palate, this tastes raisiny and stewed. Low acidity and raisiny flavors on the finish are consistent with what came before. | 85 | 15.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Durigutti 2014 Bonarda (Mendoza) | Bonarda | Durigutti | |||
| 735 | Argentina | Oily, gritty aromas of almond skins set up a pungent but oily tasting palate. Core fruit flavors lean towards sour grapefruit and orange, while the finish is tangy, salty and sour through the last note. | Don David Reserve | 85 | 17.0 | Other | Calchaquí Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | El Esteco 2015 Don David Reserve Torrontés (Calchaquí Valley) | Torrontés | El Esteco | ||
| 736 | US | A rare miss for this winery, this bottling shows cooked red cherries, dust, vanilla and caramel on the somewhat hollow nose. The palate is almost overly rich with caramelized black cherry, fudge and chalky tannins. Patience will likely improve this one. | 85 | 32.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Felten Cellars 2013 Tempranillo (Paso Robles) | Tempranillo | Felten Cellars | ||
| 737 | Portugal | This raspberry-flavored wine is soft and ripe. While it is fruity, it also has a nutty character that gives it a rich taste. It's dry and in a style that will make it better with food than by itself. | Casa Ermelinda Freitas Monte de Baía | 85 | 12.0 | Península de Setúbal | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Wines & Winemakers 2015 Casa Ermelinda Freitas Monte de Baía Rosé (Península de Setúbal) | Rosé | Wines & Winemakers | |||
| 738 | Argentina | Roasted, stewed berry aromas are rustic and suggestive of grilled meat. This is high in acidity, and thus it feels sharp and edgy. Flavors of forced oak, related spice and tart plum end with a scraping, tannic feel and herbal berry flavors. | Henry Legarde | 85 | 17.0 | Mendoza Province | Luján de Cuyo | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Lagarde 2013 Henry Legarde Malbec (Luján de Cuyo) | Malbec | Lagarde | ||
| 739 | Italy | Roasted coffee bean and menthol aromas lead the nose while the evolved palate offers dark bitter chocolate, licorice and a toasted note. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit has largely dried up while astringent tannins lead to a bracing finish. | Riserva | 85 | 102.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Marchesi di Barolo 2009 Riserva (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Marchesi di Barolo | ||
| 740 | US | There seems to be a dusty veil over the fruit of this sold, approachable Sangiovese. A bit of sweet spice creeps up on the palate, making it enjoyable by itself or paired alongside pizza Tuesday. | 85 | Texas | Texas | Alexander Peartree | McPherson 2014 Sangiovese (Texas) | Sangiovese | McPherson | |||||
| 741 | France | This light and fruity wine offers soft tannins and an earthy character. The wine comes mainly from Beaujolais with 15% of Pinot Noir from the Mâcon region. Drink now. | 85 | 10.0 | Burgundy | Coteaux Bourguignons | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Patriarche Père et Fils 2014 Coteaux Bourguignons | Pinot Noir-Gamay | Patriarche Père et Fils | |||
| 742 | France | This wine has acidity and a good balance between the fresh, crisp character and the richer yellow fruits. It is ready to drink. | 85 | 20.0 | Burgundy | Saint-Véran | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Paul Reitz 2014 Saint-Véran | Chardonnay | Paul Reitz | |||
| 743 | US | Ripe plum and plenty of vanilla and cherry provide the perception of sweetness in this wine. That sensation may stem from the pushing-the-envelope generosity of the ripe fruit or from the oak. or both. It makes for a full-bodied, heady experience. | Treborce Vineyard | 85 | 33.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Pech Merle 2013 Treborce Vineyard Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley) | Zinfandel | Pech Merle | |
| 744 | Italy | This opens with unusual aromas that recall minestrone soup, celery and glazed onion that carry over to the palate. It lacks fruit richness and is rather muddled, offering flavors reminiscent of sweet and sour sauce. Tasted both bottles, same notes. | Campo Quadro Riserva | 85 | 48.0 | Piedmont | Barbaresco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Punset 2011 Campo Quadro Riserva (Barbaresco) | Nebbiolo | Punset | ||
| 745 | Portugal | The grape is local to the Vidigueira region of the southern Alentejo. Coming from cool vineyards, the wine has a fresh character that is balanced by the ripe melon and juicy pear fruits. It has a crisper end and is ready to drink. | Pato Frio | 85 | 12.0 | Alentejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Ribafreixo 2015 Pato Frio Antão Vaz (Alentejo) | Antão Vaz | Ribafreixo | |||
| 746 | Australia | Melon and citrus aromas and flavors mingle easily in this cleanly made quaffer. It's a bit plump on the palate, yet refreshing on the lemon-lime finish. | Classic | 85 | 9.0 | Australia Other | South Eastern Australia | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Jacob's Creek 2015 Classic Pinot Grigio (South Eastern Australia) | Pinot Grigio | Jacob's Creek | ||
| 747 | US | A nice Pinot Noir, dry and elegant, and if it's somewhat one-dimensional, it packs a lot of flavor. With rich raspberry, red licorice, bacon and spice flavors, it's a lovely wine to drink now. | 87 | 24.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | William Knuttel 2007 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | William Knuttel | ||||
| 748 | US | The sweet scent of raspberry and strawberry preserves waft from this Cab Franc icewine from Casa Larga. On the palate as well, there's a nice concentration of preserved berry flavors that soar on the palate with a bright, sunny acidity. Finishes clean and long with just a hint of autumn leaves and bramble. | Fiori Delle Stelle Ice Wine | 87 | 75.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Casa Larga 2008 Fiori Delle Stelle Ice Wine Cabernet Franc (Finger Lakes) | Cabernet Franc | Casa Larga | ||
| 749 | France | A soft style of Riesling, with some attractive aromatic white flower character. The fruit is soft, just off dry, freshened by acidity. Screwcap. | Baron de Hoen | 87 | 12.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Cave de Beblenheim 2009 Baron de Hoen Riesling (Alsace) | Riesling | Cave de Beblenheim | ||
| 750 | US | Soft and appealing, this Pinot offers lush, elaborate flavors of raspberry and cherry pie filling, mocha and sandalwood flavors, finished with sweet, dusty Indian spices. It's made for drinking now. | Thornton Vineyard | 87 | 45.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | De Loach 2008 Thornton Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | De Loach | |||
| 751 | Chile | A little hard at first, with match stick aromas. After that blows off, there's green fruit notes carrying the nose. Full in the mouth, with acidic cut and spunky flavors of nectarine and orange. Finishes round, with citrus and passion fruit. | 347 Vineyards | 87 | 13.0 | Central Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | De Martino 2010 347 Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc (Central Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | De Martino | |||
| 752 | France | Blowsy, lychee aromas, a wine that is ripe, soft, open, with a light touch of acidity. Pepper and sweet spices fit well into this easy profile. Screwcap. | 87 | Alsace | Alsace | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Dopff Au Moulin 2009 Gewürztraminer (Alsace) | Gewürztraminer | Dopff Au Moulin | ||||
| 753 | US | With brisk Edna Valley acidity and intensely pure Chardonnay fruit flavors of tangerines, limes and sweet Meyer lemon sour candy, this is a pleasant sipper with roasted or grilled salmon, or a barbecue chicken or pork skewer with pineapples, green peppers and onions. | Effort | 87 | 22.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Center of Effort 2008 Effort Chardonnay (Edna Valley) | Chardonnay | Center of Effort | |||
| 754 | Spain | Pulpy and also minerally on the nose, with basic white fruit aromas. Zesty, crisp and defined by slate and lime in the mouth, with apple, lime and dryness to the flavor profile. A composed little white wine for simple sipping or white sangria. | 87 | 10.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | El Coto 2010 Viura (Rioja) | Viura | El Coto | |||
| 755 | US | Shows the perfect balance and varietal richness that Anderson Valley Gewürztraminers are known for. With crisp acidity, it has exotic flavors of Asian pears, candied pears, tangerines, gingersnap cookies and dusty spices, with a dry finish. Would score much higher if it were more concentrated. | 87 | 18.0 | California | Anderson Valley | Handley 2009 Gewürztraminer (Anderson Valley) | Gewürztraminer | Handley | |||||
| 756 | US | A good, rich, flashy Zinfandel. There's not much to get excited about, but it delivers Zin's personality in a most attractive way. It's spicy, rich and sweet in cherry, raspberry, cocoa, honey and spice flavors. | 87 | 35.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Kuleto Estate 2008 Zinfandel (Napa Valley) | Zinfandel | Kuleto Estate | ||||
| 757 | US | Funky, with mushroom and sweaty leather aromas that can best be described as Burgundian. But it's richly sweet in raspberries and cherries, and the smoky oak is nicely integrated with the fruit. A pleasant Pinot Noir to drink now. | Julia's Vineyard | 87 | 36.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | Lane Tanner 2009 Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | Lane Tanner | |||
| 758 | US | This is a dry, elegant young Pinot Noir. It's rich in acidity, and the cherry and cola flavors are sprinkled with zesty white pepper. Seems to be giving its best now. | 87 | 34.0 | California | Sonoma Coast | Sonoma | MacRostie 2008 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) | Pinot Noir | MacRostie | ||||
| 759 | US | A big burly Syrah from this Temecula producer whose goal it is to become the premier winery of Southern California, the wine is loaded with plummy black fruit and a peppery mouthfeel, its oakiness derived from the almost three years it spent barrel-aging in new French oak. Not for the meek at 15.6% alcohol, it finishes a tad sweet. | Reserve, Vista del Monte Vineyard | 87 | 70.0 | California | Temecula Valley | South Coast | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Monte De Oro 2006 Reserve, Vista del Monte Vineyard Syrah (Temecula Valley) | Syrah | Monte De Oro | |
| 760 | US | The blackberry, blueberry, bacon, pepper and sandalwood flavors are nice, and the wine finishes dry. A good, rich Syrah for drinking now if you're looking for a full-bodied and tannic red wine. Give it a brief decant. | Estate Grown | 87 | 28.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Mounts 2008 Estate Grown Syrah (Dry Creek Valley) | Syrah | Mounts | |||
| 761 | Chile | Cola, root beer and other earthy aromas open up this full-bodied blend of 70% Cabernet and 30% Carmenère. The palate shows pointed, prickly acidity and flavors of black cherry and cassis. Offers a rich flavor profile but the acidity creates bite and sharpness. | Antu | 87 | 19.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Ninquén 2009 Antu Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenère (Colchagua Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenère | Ninquén | |||
| 762 | Spain | Round and good by Rueda standards, with melon and peach aromas but not too much citrus. The palate is full and chunky, with papaya, melon and a touch of pithy bitterness. More regular than special, but good and goes down easy before finishing dry. | Solo | 87 | 14.0 | Northern Spain | Rueda | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Oro de Castilla 2010 Solo Verdejo (Rueda) | Verdejo | Oro de Castilla | ||
| 763 | Spain | White fruits, flower blossom and a touch of brine work the nose, which is followed by flush, semisweet apple, gooseberry and lime flavors. More sweet than outright tangy, but still citrusy and zesty. Holds form on the crisp finish. 60% Verdejo and 40% Viura. | Ipsum | 87 | 10.0 | Northern Spain | Rueda | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Pablo del Villar 2010 Ipsum Verdejo-Viura (Rueda) | Verdejo-Viura | Pablo del Villar | ||
| 764 | US | A touch overripe, showing some bitter, dried raisinskin notes. If you can get past that, you'll find plenty of rich blackberry, dark chocolate, plum, beef jerky and black pepper flavors. | Cuvée Christine | 87 | 45.0 | California | North Coast | North Coast | Pax 2007 Cuvée Christine Syrah (North Coast) | Syrah | Pax | |||
| 765 | US | Ripe enough in blackberries, currants and mocha, with an earthy, tobacco herbaceousness. The tannins are potent, making the wine hard. Drink now, after a good decanting. | The Griffin | 87 | 32.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Robert Foley 2008 The Griffin Red (Napa Valley) | Red Blend | Robert Foley | |||
| 766 | Australia | Light, fresh and silky—just what might be expected from cool-climate Pinot Noir. A pleasant earthiness underscores prettily interwoven strands of herbs and cherries. It's exciting to see the burgeoning quality of the wines coming out of Tasmania. | 87 | 18.0 | Tasmania | Tasmania | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | 42°S 2008 Pinot Noir (Tasmania) | Pinot Noir | 42°S | |||
| 767 | Spain | Aromas of red licorice candy and raspberry are fruity, forward and clean. The palate is more than competent and balanced, with creamy strawberry and raspberry flavors. The finish is short but easy, and for the price that's all you can ask for. | 87 | 9.0 | Northern Spain | Cariñena | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Manyana 2008 Tempranillo (Cariñena) | Tempranillo | Manyana | |||
| 768 | Australia | A good value in easy-to-drink Cabernet, McWilliam's 2008 is plummy and chocolaty, with soft tannins and a velvety finish. A bit simple perhaps, but definitely satisfying. Drink now. | 87 | 11.0 | Australia Other | South Eastern Australia | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | McWilliam's Hanwood Estate 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (South Eastern Australia) | Cabernet Sauvignon | McWilliam's Hanwood Estate | |||
| 769 | Italy | Here's a jammy, overtly ripe expression of Aglianico that ultimately proves to be an easier and more immediate expression of this naturally tannic grape variety. Aromas include candied fruit, blackberry preserves, raw cherry and raisin. | Synthesi | 87 | 30.0 | Southern Italy | Aglianico del Vulture | Paternoster 2007 Synthesi (Aglianico del Vulture) | Aglianico | Paternoster | ||||
| 770 | France | Now with its intensity and some bottle age, this wine—formerly known as Crémant de Cramant—is rich, with its apple flavor blending with an almond note and a soft, warm texture. The acidity shoots right through this ripe wine. | Mumm de Cramant Blanc de Blancs | 92 | 62.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | G. H. Mumm NV Mumm de Cramant Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay (Champagne) | Chardonnay | G. H. Mumm | ||
| 771 | US | A beautiful sparkling wine that shows the Iron Horse signature of balanced elegance. The lime, raspberry, vanilla and brioche flavors are rich and intricate, but particularly lovely is the texture, which is soft and silky. | Ocean Reserve | 92 | 40.0 | California | Green Valley | Sonoma | Iron Horse 2007 Ocean Reserve Sparkling (Green Valley) | Sparkling Blend | Iron Horse | |||
| 772 | France | Fight your way through the string and wax sealing that holds down the cork, and you'll discover a wine that is rich, full and opulent. The ripe peach character is balanced with the delicious toasty edge and final bright acidity. Ready to drink. | Grande Réserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut | 92 | 66.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jean Milan NV Grande Réserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut Chardonnay (Champagne) | Chardonnay | Jean Milan | ||
| 773 | Portugal | Powerful and concentrated, this is just at its peak. Ripe, rich fruit and tarry tannins give it freshness and a dry core. It's solid and serious, a dense wine that calls for equally rich food. Drink it now while it's at its prime. | Grande Reserva | 92 | 32.0 | Alentejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Monte da Penha 2005 Grande Reserva Red (Alentejo) | Portuguese Red | Monte da Penha | |||
| 774 | US | The Lorna Marie is the winery's reserve, and it has exceptional concentration and depth. Berry and cherry dominate, spiced up with a pumpkin pie accent. Round, rich and full, yet moderate in alcohol, this is a fine expression of Oregon Pinot Noir in a challenging vintage. | Lorna Marie | 92 | 70.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Patton Valley 2010 Lorna Marie Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Patton Valley | |
| 775 | US | All the 2010 Patton Valley Pinots are significantly lower in alcohol than the previous vintage, and it works to their advantage. Nuanced fruit flavors include rhubarb and tart cherry, with veins of cola and dark chocolate adding further complexity. Its length is excellent. | West Block | 92 | 48.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Patton Valley 2010 West Block Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Patton Valley | |
| 776 | France | The extra age on this bone-dry wine has paid off, as the taut character of a young wine has been tempered with toast, creating a round feeling. It is perfectly in harmony now, beautiful and crisp. | Oenophile Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut | 92 | 72.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Pierre Gimonnet et Fils 2005 Oenophile Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Chardonnay (Champagne) | Chardonnay | Pierre Gimonnet et Fils | ||
| 777 | Italy | Verduzzo is a very interesting grape that tends to exude oxidized aromas of candied fruit, butterscotch and carmel. But when made well, as in the case of this selection, it offers power, concentration and natural richness as well. | Cràtis | 92 | 18.0 | Northeastern Italy | Colli Orientali del Friuli | Scubla 2008 Cràtis Verduzzo (Colli Orientali del Friuli) | Verduzzo | Scubla | ||||
| 778 | US | The Winderlea is perhaps the most unique in terms of style and flavor among all the 2010 Adelsheim single-vineyard Pinots. Its distinctive minerality accompanies tart cranberry and cherry notes, citrusy acidity with a splash of grapefruit flavor, and a finish that tastes of coffee and tea. Complex and long, this is a wine that will surely spark some heated discussion. | Winderlea Vineyard | 92 | 105.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Adelsheim 2010 Winderlea Vineyard Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Noir | Adelsheim | |
| 779 | France | This is a powerful, almost concentrated, very dry selection. Its richness comes from the weight of its fruit flavors and the tight tang of its intense acidity. From a fine vintage, it could still age for several more years. Disgorged July 2011. | Assemblage Brut | 92 | 101.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Bruno Paillard 2002 Assemblage Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Bruno Paillard | ||
| 780 | Italy | Thanks to eight years in Vin Santo's traditional caratelli barrels, this sweet blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia offers a dark, golden-amber color, bearing intense aromas of dried apricot, candied fruit, honey and toasted almond. | 92 | 50.0 | Tuscany | Vin Santo del Chianti Classico | Castello d'Albola 2003 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico | White Blend | Castello d'Albola | |||||
| 781 | Italy | A landmark wine for those who love Italian sparklers, this shows loads of ripe apricot, melon and honey notes, with toasted nut and baked bread hints in the background. There are also touches of caramel and butterscotch that help move the wine's thick and opulent texture across the palate. It ends with refreshing acidity and tonic perlage. | Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore | 92 | 85.0 | Northeastern Italy | Trento | Ferrari 2001 Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore Chardonnay (Trento) | Chardonnay | Ferrari | ||||
| 782 | US | There's a honeyed accent to this sparkler, with tangerine, lime, buttered toast and yeasty flavors that are savory and complex. The mouthfeel is wonderfully soft and creamy. A great success for Laetitia, at a good price. | Cuvée M | 92 | 35.0 | California | Arroyo Grande Valley | Central Coast | Laetitia 2008 Cuvée M Sparkling (Arroyo Grande Valley) | Sparkling Blend | Laetitia | |||
| 783 | US | This is dry, rich, heady, spicy and utterly delicious. As usual, it contains a splash of Petite Sirah. Already throwing some sediment, it's pretty tannic, with complex flavors of wild blackberry and blueberry, black currant, licorice, cola, bacon and plum sauce, with a hint of exotic pepper and spice. This great Zinfandel is a joy to drink. | Big River Ranch | 92 | 38.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Bella 2009 Big River Ranch Zinfandel (Alexander Valley) | Zinfandel | Bella | |||
| 784 | Portugal | This mature wine has a soft, smooth character and ripe fruit. With its red-berry flavors and gentle tannins, it's very ready to drink. The blend is dominated by Touriga Nacional from an estate at the heart of the Douro vineyards in Pinhão. | VT '08 | 90 | 32.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta do Sagrado 2008 VT '08 Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Quinta do Sagrado | |||
| 785 | Argentina | This is a highly particular, funky blend of 85% Malbec and 15% Cabernet. It opens with savory stewy earthy aromas of berry fruits and prune. Due to the 15.5% abv, this feels heavy and clampy, with rooty flavors of baked berry fruits, cola, minty herbs and carob. An oaky spicy toasty finish with heat is the closing act on this fully stuffed Salta blend. | 90 | 25.0 | Other | Salta | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | San Pedro de Yacochuya 2012 Red (Salta) | Red Blend | San Pedro de Yacochuya | |||
| 786 | Portugal | A ripe and structured wine, this has bold black fruits and balanced tannins that still need to soften. It has good potential with rich fruits and a tight mineral texture. Drink from 2018. | Aneto Tinto | 90 | 12.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Sobredos 2012 Aneto Tinto Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Sobredos | |||
| 787 | US | Robust black fruit forms around a dense, leathery core of concentration and richness before allowing room for softer, intertwined tannins to add structure and more depth. Chocolate marks the finish of this big, bold wine. | Rutherford Estate Vineyard | 90 | 125.0 | California | Rutherford | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | St. Supéry 2013 Rutherford Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Rutherford) | Cabernet Sauvignon | St. Supéry | |
| 788 | Argentina | Oaky, smoky aromas are New World all the way. Heavily toasted and creamy on the palate, this hefty full-bodied Chardonnay tastes of wood resin, spiced apple and peach. Solid acidity keep this in line, while a lasting wave of toasty oak pushes the finish. | Bramare Marchiori Vineyard | 90 | 46.0 | Mendoza Province | Perdriel | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Viña Cobos 2015 Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Chardonnay (Perdriel) | Chardonnay | Viña Cobos | ||
| 789 | Germany | Fragrant notes of tangerine and yuzu peel abound on this citrusy dry Riesling. The palate is cutting and fresh, full of juicy white grapefruit and lime flavors. Light bodied yet satisfyingly thirst quenching, it finishes long with invigorating minerality. | Apollo Dry | 90 | 29.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Von Schleinitz 2015 Apollo Dry Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Von Schleinitz | ||||
| 790 | US | The variety is unmistakable, with notes of dried herb, dark cherry and espresso. The jammy fruit flavors are rich, with lightly grainy tannins and coffee notes on the finish. It shows a fine sense of balance. | Signature | 90 | 17.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Barnard Griffin 2014 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Barnard Griffin | |
| 791 | US | Just one barrel was produced from the own-rooted vines planted almost 50 years ago. It's earthy and scented with a menthol/eucalyptus note, that carries on through. Cranberry flavor reflects the rather low alcohol, but there is no hint of unripeness or any vegetative character. | Chehalem Mountain Vineyard | 90 | 85.0 | Oregon | Chehalem Mountains | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Beacon Hill 2013 Chehalem Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains) | Pinot Noir | Beacon Hill | |
| 792 | France | The 45% Cabernet Sauvignon in this wine gives it structure and aging potential. It is a ripe wine that is also stylish with attractive acidity and plenty of black-currant fruitiness. The wine is developing well and it should be ready to drink from 2018. | La Sérénité des Grands Chênes | 90 | 30.0 | Bordeaux | Médoc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Bernard Magrez 2012 La Sérénité des Grands Chênes (Médoc) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Bernard Magrez | ||
| 793 | US | This wine is a blend of Sangiovese (66%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and Syrah. The aromas are brooding, with notes of earth, toast, red fruit and spice. The palate brings tart tangy cranberry flavors that linger on the finish. | Tuttorosso | 90 | 34.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Brian Carter Cellars 2012 Tuttorosso Red (Yakima Valley) | Red Blend | Brian Carter Cellars | |
| 794 | US | The nose of this wine combines this grape's best attributes: bright, crisp citrus redolent in grapefruit and Key lime, but with a tropical touch of guava and pineapple. The palate is broad and ripe but restrained enough, with plush mango and guava laid against a chalky backbone. | 90 | 22.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Buttonwood 2015 Grenache Blanc (Santa Ynez Valley) | Grenache Blanc | Buttonwood | ||
| 795 | France | This is the second wine from one of the group of chateaus with Corbin in their names. It is a tight wine, firm with tannins and with a concentrated texture and flavors of over-extraction. That said, the wine will probably develop over time into something serious with a dark, dense aftertaste. | Divin de Corbin | 90 | 35.0 | Bordeaux | Saint-Émilion | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Corbin 2014 Divin de Corbin (Saint-Émilion) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Corbin | ||
| 796 | France | This is a perfumed wine, with mint flavors as well as blackberry fruits. There is still a dominant structure of tannins and the wood aging that will allow the wine to age well. The fruits give the wine weight while the aftertaste has great swathes of acidity. Drink from 2019. | 90 | 45.0 | Bordeaux | Haut-Médoc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Haut-Logat 2014 Haut-Médoc | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Haut-Logat | |||
| 797 | France | Produced from 30-year-old vines, this 55% Cabernet Sauvignon wine is firm with tannins as well as black-currant fruit. It is balanced with the potential to become a fruity wine with a soft texture. The acidity will keep it crisp and on point. Drink from 2018. | 90 | 20.0 | Bordeaux | Médoc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château La Branne 2014 Médoc | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château La Branne | |||
| 798 | France | With ripe Merlot dominating this fine, blackberry flavored wine, it is fruity and rich. The acidity gives a crisper edge to the wine while the tannins come from a dry core. It is a wine in progress, full of potential and likely to be ready to drink from 2018. | 90 | 17.0 | Bordeaux | Fronsac | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Mayne Vieil 2014 Fronsac | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Mayne Vieil | |||
| 799 | France | This 23-acre-estate is situated in the south of the Margaux appellation, close to classed growth Château Giscours. While not classified, it still has the ability to produce a fine ripe wine that also has great structure. Acidity and firm tannins are very present along with concentrated blackberry fruits. Drink this fine wine from 2019. | 90 | 45.0 | Bordeaux | Margaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Mille-Roses 2012 Margaux | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Mille-Roses | |||
| 800 | US | With black cherry, blueberry, milk chocolate and balsamic reduction offsetting the light dill herbaceousness, this wine offers surprising depth for the affordable price. The texture is soft, yet the tannins stand up to the black cherry, charcoal and black-pepper flavors. | 90 | 20.0 | California | Santa Ynez Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Chessman 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Santa Ynez Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Chessman | ||
| 801 | US | Made entirely from Syrah grown on its property across multiple vintages, and then cave-aged six years in American oak, this is a nice dessert wine, raisiny and brimming in Christmas spice. With plenty of body and acidity, it swims effortlessly and smoothly on the palate, a bite of decadence that will work well with rich cheeses. | Tawny Estate | 90 | 50.0 | California | Sonoma Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Deerfield Ranch NV Tawny Estate Syrah (Sonoma Valley) | Syrah | Deerfield Ranch | |
| 802 | France | This is a firm wine, balancing some solid tannins with ripe red fruits. Still young, it is packed with fruitiness and with acidity that are centered around a firm core. Drink this stylish wine from 2018. | Le Griottier | 90 | 22.0 | Beaujolais | Juliénas | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Franck Besson 2014 Le Griottier (Juliénas) | Gamay | Domaine Franck Besson | ||
| 803 | US | Aromas of savory herbs, mineral, exotic spice and red fruit are followed by fruit flavors that are surprisingly restrained considering the warmth of the vintage. Tart acidity livens it up. It's green for the variety but still brings enjoyment. | Upright Klipsun Vineyard | 90 | 39.0 | Washington | Red Mountain | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Efeste 2013 Upright Klipsun Vineyard Merlot (Red Mountain) | Merlot | Efeste | |
| 804 | US | The aromas of mineral, spice, toast, yellow apple and lemon pith are light but enchanting. The palate is medium bodied and refined, demonstrating judicious use of oak and a lengthy finish that shows some warmth. | Lola Evergreen Vineyard | 90 | 35.0 | Washington | Ancient Lakes | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Efeste 2014 Lola Evergreen Vineyard Chardonnay (Ancient Lakes) | Chardonnay | Efeste | |
| 805 | US | Bone dry and replete with skin flavors of pear and grapefruit pith, this is perfect for those who want to keep their alcohol consumption down without turning to a sweeter style of wine. Try it with grilled sausages and sauerkraut. | 90 | 15.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Firesteed 2012 Riesling (Oregon) | Riesling | Firesteed | ||
| 806 | US | Very smooth, almost thick, this is a rich wine in flavor and mouthfeel. It practically oozes over the palate, dripping with ripe pineapple, vanilla and cream, and coats every corner of the mouth before lingering through a long finish. It's full bodied, soft and concentrated. | Small Lot | 90 | 27.0 | California | Sierra Foothills | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Iron Hub 2014 Small Lot Chardonnay (Sierra Foothills) | Chardonnay | Iron Hub | |
| 807 | Australia | Without any new oak or lees stirring, this wine's sole focus is on the fruit. Pineapple, melon and peach notes are pure and striking, supported by just hints of vanilla and cream. This medium-bodied Chardonnay finishes in a flurry of tangerine and lime. | Farrago | 90 | 66.0 | Victoria | Mornington Peninsula | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Kooyong 2013 Farrago Chardonnay (Mornington Peninsula) | Chardonnay | Kooyong | ||
| 808 | Italy | Aromas of ripe orchard fruit and chopped herb jump out of the glass. The savory palate serves up juicy Bartlett pear, green apple, citrus and a mint note while a hint of white almond adds depth. Very appealing. | Le Vele | 90 | 32.0 | Central Italy | Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Moncaro 2015 Le Vele (Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico) | Verdicchio | Moncaro | ||
| 809 | Spain | Mild raisin, black cherry, anise and burnt tire aromas lead to a plump, balanced palate that's full but not overloaded. Earthy baked black-fruit flavors show a hint of oaky coconut, while this Tempranillo finishes with depth and density. | Parcela 23 | 90 | 20.0 | Central Spain | Vino de la Tierra de Castilla | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Finca Constancia 2011 Parcela 23 Tempranillo (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla) | Tempranillo | Finca Constancia | ||
| 810 | US | This wine opens with a confectionary nose, slowly unleashing its thick, concentrated richness of dark cherry and cassis on the palate. Between the layers are grippy tannins and shakes of meaty leather and black pepper. This could stand some time in a decanter or swirling in the glass before enjoying. | 90 | 125.0 | California | Rutherford | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Aiken 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (Rutherford) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Aiken | ||
| 811 | Germany | White blossom perfume accents notes of fresh lemon, lime and green melon in this aromatic Silvaner. While dry in style, it's refreshingly juicy on the palate, bursting with pristine citrus flavor tinged by edges of lime and lemon pith. Mouth filling and rich in texture, it clings lusciously through a long finish. | Castell | 90 | 16.0 | Franken | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Castell 2015 Castell Silvaner (Franken) | Silvaner | Castell | ||||
| 812 | US | This is a particularly expressive wine with lots of personality. It opens with aromas of cherry, tea and wood smoke, and tastes very dry and structured with vivid fruit acidity and tannins. Sour cherry and raspberry provide the fruit flavors. | Perli Vineyards | 90 | 42.0 | California | Mendocino Ridge | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Donkey & Goat 2013 Perli Vineyards Syrah (Mendocino Ridge) | Syrah | Donkey & Goat | ||
| 813 | Australia | Built for early consumption, this blend of 59% Grenache, 22% Shiraz and 19% Mataro is lush and warm, offering chocolaty notes alongside hints of brown sugar, grilled meat and blueberries. Drink now–2022. | Cuvee Juveniles | 90 | 22.0 | South Australia | Barossa Valley | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Torbreck 2013 Cuvee Juveniles Red (Barossa Valley) | Red Blend | Torbreck | ||
| 814 | Italy | Aromas of toasted oak, crushed blue flower, underbrush, espresso, licorice and toasted notes take center stage. There's not much fruit richness here so drink now before it fades. | 86 | Tuscany | Rosso di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Valdicava 2012 Rosso di Montalcino | Sangiovese | Valdicava | ||||
| 815 | US | All from Rosebud Vineyard, this moderately aromatic wine brings notes of herbs and pineapple, with Sémillon (15%) adding fig to the mix. The concentration doesn't seem all there and it needs a bit more acid to stand it up. | Soleil | 86 | 18.0 | Washington | Wahluke Slope | Columbia Valley | Sean P. Sullivan | @wawinereport | Finn Hill 2013 Soleil Sauvignon Blanc (Wahluke Slope) | Sauvignon Blanc | Finn Hill | |
| 816 | US | While demure on the nose, this light-footed Gewürztraminer is pretty on the palate with delicate lychee and floral notes. Its unusually nervous and shy for it's variety, but refreshingly quaffable. | Pre-Emption Vineyard | 86 | 22.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Keuka Spring 2013 Pre-Emption Vineyard Gewürztraminer (Finger Lakes) | Gewürztraminer | Keuka Spring | ||
| 817 | Chile | Earthy, lightly stewed aromas of plum and berry set up a lively but pinched and narrow palate with candied flavors of mixed red berry fruits. Additional red-fruit friendliness rolls onto the finish of this pleasant but basic Merlot. | Block Selection Reserve Block N. 10 | 86 | 12.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | La Playa 2012 Block Selection Reserve Block N. 10 Merlot (Colchagua Valley) | Merlot | La Playa | |||
| 818 | France | The wine is warm and round, full of ripe berry fruits and soft tannins. It's ready to drink now with its full structure, balanced acidity and juicy aftertaste. | Belle Grâce | 86 | 15.0 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Les Vins Aujoux 2013 Belle Grâce (Beaujolais-Villages) | Gamay | Les Vins Aujoux | ||
| 819 | France | Soft, ripe and fruity, this is an immediately accessible, drinkable wine. It's soft with lemon and yellow fruits coming together to give a fresh, lively apéritif style of wine. | 86 | 9.0 | Southwest France | Côtes de Gascogne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Mont Gravet 2013 Colombard (Côtes de Gascogne) | Colombard | Mont Gravet | |||
| 820 | Spain | Cherry and cassis aromas are a touch flat and jammy. This shows grabby tannins as well as loamy, earthy, lightly bitter flavors of black fruits. The finish lumbers along with size and tannic grip, but overall this blend of 65% Tempranillo, 25% Graciano and 10% Garnacha shows well. | Made With Organic Grapes | 86 | 12.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Navardia 2013 Made With Organic Grapes (Rioja) | Tempranillo Blend | Navardia | ||
| 821 | Spain | Bready aromas feature melon as the main fruit scent. This is chunky in feel, with moderate acidity and cut. Apple, melon and green-herb flavors finish with hints of toast, yeast and generic sweetness. | Brut | 86 | 15.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Pata Negra NV Brut Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | Pata Negra | ||
| 822 | Italy | This displays evident oak sensations of sweet vanilla, toast, espresso, milk chocolate and mature black plum alongside drying tannins. There's not much fresh acidity so drink soon before it dries out. | 86 | 20.0 | Tuscany | Rosso di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Ridolfi 2012 Rosso di Montalcino | Sangiovese | Ridolfi | |||
| 823 | US | Grape soda, prune, leather, graphite, dust and black tobacco blend into an intriguing nose on this estate Malbec from Paso's Eastside. It's a little rustic around the edges once sipped, but pleasantly so. The mouthfeel is soft, the flavors are peppery and the tannins and acidity are built to last. | 86 | 28.0 | California | Paso Robles | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Still Waters 2010 Malbec (Paso Robles) | Malbec | Still Waters | ||
| 824 | US | Nothing is out of place in this solid, attractive and well-priced Merlot. It is a straightforward red wine that feels well-balanced, is medium to full-bodied, and has tasty, mellow plum and cherry flavors. Firm tannins mark the clean finish. | 86 | 10.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Stomping Ground 2010 Merlot (California) | Merlot | Stomping Ground | ||
| 825 | Italy | Roasted coffee bean, underbrush, toast and allspice lead the nose on this big wine. The one-dimensional palate offers dense cherry extract, licorice and the warmth of alcohol. It's already evolved so drink now. | 86 | 70.0 | Tuscany | Brunello di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tenuta Poggio il Castellare 2009 Brunello di Montalcino | Sangiovese | Tenuta Poggio il Castellare | |||
| 826 | Italy | This wine brings together sensations of tilled earth, espresso, oak extract, coffee, overripe black plum and vanilla. The palate displays tightly packed tannins but it's low on fresh acidity so drink it soon. | Ciampoleto | 86 | 28.0 | Tuscany | Rosso di Montalcino | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tenuta San Giorgio 2012 Ciampoleto (Rosso di Montalcino) | Sangiovese | Tenuta San Giorgio | ||
| 827 | Chile | Leathery, briny plum aromas are full and herbal. This feels solid and medium in size and body. Flavors of earthy, roasted berry and plum finish lightly green and herbal, with a touch of sweetness. | 86 | 11.0 | Curicó Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Terrapura 2012 Merlot (Curicó Valley) | Merlot | Terrapura | ||||
| 828 | France | Chenin Blanc has found an unlikely new home in Cahors, to judge by the producers who are trying it out. It works well, giving a deliciously nutty character as well as intense citrus and minerality. Age this wine until 2015. | K-libre | 86 | 30.0 | Southwest France | Côtes du Lot | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Clos Troteligotte 2013 K-libre Chenin Blanc (Côtes du Lot) | Chenin Blanc | Clos Troteligotte | ||
| 829 | US | A clean, fresh wine, this opens with crisply varietal aromatics of citrus and orange blossom. The flavors follow suit, adding some fresh-cut pineapple as well; then the wine hits a wall and simply pulls up short. | 86 | 26.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Columbia Winery 2013 Viognier (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Viognier | Columbia Winery | ||
| 830 | France | Crisp while also fruity, it has bright acidity, lively citrus and apple flavors and a refreshing aftertaste. Drink now. | 86 | 15.0 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine de Thulon 2013 Beaujolais-Villages | Chardonnay | Domaine de Thulon | |||
| 831 | France | Some wood aging gives the fruitiness of the wine an added spice. Tannins support the bitter cherry flavors and add firmness to the juicy acidity. Drink from the end of 2015. | Roche Grès | 86 | 23.0 | Beaujolais | Moulin-à-Vent | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Haut-Poncié 2013 Roche Grès (Moulin-à-Vent) | Gamay | Domaine du Haut-Poncié | ||
| 832 | France | The wine is very fresh, with intense acidity and fragrant red fruits. Made from 100-year-old vines, it's tight, mineral and has a cool, light character with the merest hint of tannin. Drink now. | Coeur de Vendanges | 86 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Vissoux 2013 Coeur de Vendanges (Beaujolais) | Gamay | Domaine du Vissoux | |||
| 833 | Italy | Aromas of a closed cellar blow off in the glass to reveal underbrush, violet, woodland berries and a hint of white pepper that all carry over to the palate. It's one-dimensional with fresh acidity and would work well with deep-dish pizza covered with toppings. | 86 | 30.0 | Piedmont | Nebbiolo d'Alba | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Dosio 2012 Nebbiolo d'Alba | Nebbiolo | Dosio | |||
| 834 | Chile | Briary, spicy, mildly herbal berry aromas give way to a full, bold, wiry feeling palate with pointed acidity. Herbal, lightly green flavors of tobacco and plum finish crisp. | Reserva Estate Bottled | 86 | 10.0 | Loncomilla Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | G7 2012 Reserva Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon (Loncomilla Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | G7 | |||
| 835 | France | Attractive cherry flavors give a ripe, rounded feel that's balanced by the acidity and tannins. Black cherries burst easily from the glass, delivering a full aftertaste. | Flower Label | 86 | 12.0 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Georges Duboeuf 2013 Flower Label (Beaujolais) | Gamay | Georges Duboeuf | ||
| 836 | Spain | Apple and melon aromas are standard and light. A juicy, citrusy feeling palate delivers stone-fruit flavors of peach and nectarine. A mild finish is fresh in flavor and feel. | Cinta Púrpura Brut Reserva | 86 | 13.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Juvé y Camps NV Cinta Púrpura Brut Reserva Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | Juvé y Camps | ||
| 837 | Spain | Generic white-fruit and matchstick aromas are quiet in nature. This is creamy and not assaulting or sugary on the palate. Mango, melon, lychee and citrus flavors finish with lime notes. | Sweet Reserva | 86 | 15.0 | Catalonia | Cava | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Juvé y Camps NV Sweet Reserva Sparkling (Cava) | Sparkling Blend | Juvé y Camps | ||
| 838 | US | Despite the abv listed, this wine does not seem especially ripe. Peppery highlights carry a whiff of onion, and between the alcohol burn and the green edges, the wine has not come together. Aging in 40% new oak adds some toast, but not grip or density. | Les Collines Vineyard | 86 | 36.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Kontos 2011 Les Collines Vineyard Syrah (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Syrah | Kontos | |
| 839 | US | Blossoms and yellow cherries lend a sweet floral flair on the nose of this dry Riesling. It's straightforward in style, but quaffable and refreshing, with flavors of fresh apple and pear that finish crisp and clean. | Yellow Dog Vineyard | 86 | 20.0 | New York | Finger Lakes | Finger Lakes | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Lamoreaux Landing 2013 Yellow Dog Vineyard Riesling (Finger Lakes) | Riesling | Lamoreaux Landing | ||
| 840 | France | This is a rich style of rosé, rounded and fruity with good texture, wild strawberry flavors and very crisp acidity at the end. It's an attractive wine and one that's worth keeping until 2015. | 86 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais Rosé | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Laurent Gauthier 2013 Rosé (Beaujolais Rosé) | Rosé | Laurent Gauthier | ||||
| 841 | US | This does a good job of balancing lively pear and apple flavors with dashes of toast and butter. It's medium to full-bodied, dry and has enough crispness to help the flavors linger. | 86 | 10.0 | California | California | California Other | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Leaping Horse 2013 Chardonnay (California) | Chardonnay | Leaping Horse | ||
| 842 | France | While the wine has a crisp side, it's also full of red fruits and soft tannins. That makes for a wine that's fragrant, fruity, ready to drink and not likely to age much. Enjoy it now. | 86 | 16.0 | Beaujolais | Beaujolais-Villages | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Manoir du Carra 2013 Beaujolais-Villages | Gamay | Manoir du Carra | |||
| 843 | US | Aged for 20 months in 40% new French oak, this remains a tough nut to crack. It's encased in a hard tannic shell, with little ripe fruit, and is strongly flavored with barrel notes of tobacco and vanilla. Decant it or put it through an aerator. | Proprietor's Reserve | 86 | 25.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Maryhill 2011 Proprietor's Reserve Cabernet Franc (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Cabernet Franc | Maryhill | |
| 844 | Italy | Aromas of citrus, white stone fruit and a vegetal hint suggesting tomato leaf lead the way. The racy palate offers grapefruit, pineapple, fresh white peach and flinty mineral while a pleasantly bitter note closes the finish. | Bianco | 90 | 24.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Cottanera 2015 Bianco (Etna) | Carricante | Cottanera | ||
| 845 | Italy | Fragrant and fresh, this Grillo opens with alluring scents of acacia flower, beeswax and white stone fruit. The succulent palate offers creamy white peach, juicy nectarine, almond and mineral framed in tangy acidity. A note of chopped herb closes the lingering finish. | Aquilae Bio | 90 | Sicily & Sardinia | Terre Siciliane | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | CVA Canicattì 2015 Aquilae Bio Grillo (Terre Siciliane) | Grillo | CVA Canicattì | |||
| 846 | France | A soft, stony scent of pebble and the faintest melon signals a fresh, clean wine. The palate plays these aromas out softly but also with precision. That stoniness lingers on the dry, gentle finish and the lasting flavor of fresh apple peel | Rosenberg | 90 | 24.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Domaine Barmès-Buecher 2014 Rosenberg Sylvaner (Alsace) | Sylvaner | Domaine Barmès-Buecher | ||
| 847 | France | The Pinot-ness of this wine is undeniable: its structure is of velvet, and its aromas convey freshly turned earth, autumnal oak leaf and subdued red-cherry fruit. There is a depth that evokes deep forests. Have this with furred or feathered game. | Galets Oligocène | 90 | 33.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Domaine Bott-Geyl 2012 Galets Oligocène Pinot Noir (Alsace) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Bott-Geyl | ||
| 848 | France | With tannins and new-wood flavors, this rich wine is also structured. A smoky character from the wood is shot through by perfumed red fruits. The aftertaste shows more of the wood flavors that need to integrate. Drink from 2018. | Clos de Jeu | 90 | Burgundy | Marsannay | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Collotte 2014 Clos de Jeu (Marsannay) | Pinot Noir | Domaine Collotte | |||
| 849 | France | This is a blend from most parts of the village, with fruit from 14 different parcels. It is solid and firm while also having great swathes of raspberries and red plums laced together with acidity. The aftertaste is perfumed with a fresh lift. Drink from 2018 | 90 | 70.0 | Burgundy | Gevrey-Chambertin | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Faiveley 2014 Gevrey-Chambertin | Pinot Noir | Domaine Faiveley | |||
| 850 | France | Young vines, planted in 2007, give a fresh, fruity wine with attractive citrus and zingy orange flavors. It is ripe and deliciously perfumed with a touch of minerality and saltiness. Drink from 2019. | Grèves Premier Cru | 90 | 117.0 | Burgundy | Beaune | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine Jacques Prieur 2014 Grèves Premier Cru (Beaune) | Chardonnay | Domaine Jacques Prieur | ||
| 851 | France | With intense acidity, this wine has both good structure and red currant and raspberry fruits. It is bright, fresh and almost crisp in character. In the background, the tannins show the dense texture of the wine. It will need to age, so don't drink before 2019. | Champ Salomon | 90 | Burgundy | Marsannay | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine René Bouvier 2014 Champ Salomon (Marsannay) | Pinot Noir | Domaine René Bouvier | |||
| 852 | France | Bruised apple and dandelion notes play spicily on the textured, slightly phenolic palate. The central streak of freshness brightens all aspects of the wine, which might gain complexity with a year or two more in bottle. For now it remains intriguingly poised between earthy richness and ethereal lift. | Grand A du Petit Léon | 90 | 16.0 | Alsace | Alsace | Anne Krebiehl MW | @AnneInVino | Domaine Roland Schmitt 2014 Grand A du Petit Léon Sylvaner (Alsace) | Sylvaner | Domaine Roland Schmitt | ||
| 853 | Germany | A dusting of crushed slate and saffron accents this zesty lime and honey kissed Kabinett. It's dancingly light on the palate, but concentrated with swirls of marmalade and orange-peel flavors that extend through a long finish. Drink now through 2025. | Thanisch Kabinett | 90 | 30.0 | Mosel | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Dr. H. Thanisch (Erben Thanisch) 2014 Thanisch Kabinett Riesling (Mosel) | Riesling | Dr. H. Thanisch (Erben Thanisch) | ||||
| 854 | US | An interesting vein of tasty herb flavor runs through this full-bodied, plump and fruity wine. The aroma has hints of dill and sage, and these mingle with black cherry and blueberry on the palate. A sleek texture and long finish complete the picture. | 90 | 20.0 | California | Amador County | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Easton 2014 Zinfandel (Amador County) | Zinfandel | Easton | ||
| 855 | US | Quite buttery and nutty on the nose, this wine shows Marcona almonds, seared pineapple, crème brûlée and vanilla custard. Those elements meet with smart amounts of acid and texture on each creamy, buttery, pineapple-laced sip, which then finishes on marshmallow flavors. | Reserve | 90 | 35.0 | California | Edna Valley | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Edna Valley Vineyard 2013 Reserve Chardonnay (Edna Valley) | Chardonnay | Edna Valley Vineyard | |
| 856 | Italy | Scents of pressed white flower, orchard fruit, smoke, citrus and a whiff of nut lead the nose on this savory white. The round, medium-bodied palate offers mature pear, pineapple, peach and hazelnut while a note of flinty mineral lifts the finish. | Taburno | 90 | 25.0 | Southern Italy | Sannio | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Fattoria La Rivolta 2015 Taburno Fiano (Sannio) | Fiano | Fattoria La Rivolta | ||
| 857 | US | Tar and beef char kick off the nose on this dark and heavy wine, which offers asphalt, smoked meats and crushed elderberry. Caramelized beef, balsamic-blackberry reduction, tobacco and touches of smoke show on the palate. | 90 | 28.0 | California | Santa Barbara County | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Fess Parker 2013 Syrah (Santa Barbara County) | Syrah | Fess Parker | ||
| 858 | US | Fresh cut pear fruit flavors carry this wine. It's crisp and clean, with fresh fruit balanced against natural acidity. Drink it now while the freshness is paramount. | 90 | 15.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Firesteed 2014 Pinot Gris (Oregon) | Pinot Gris | Firesteed | ||
| 859 | US | This is a generous, leathery and tannic wine, full-bodied and made in a juicy, foreboding style. Black pepper, leather and cigar smoke provide a sultry, robust edge to the wine, which should cellar well, through 2020. | 90 | 150.0 | California | Spring Mountain District | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Foretell 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Spring Mountain District) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Foretell | ||
| 860 | US | Fresh cracked peppercorn, dense black and purple fruit and a cedar tone carry through the nose of this lavish yet nuanced bottling from a South Coast winery that practices extended aging before release. The elderberry fruit is hung on a strong tannic structure, bolstered by woody cigar box, incense, juniper and espresso flavors. | Erato De Portola Trail Vineyard | 90 | 45.0 | California | Temecula Valley | South Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Gershon Bachus 2009 Erato De Portola Trail Vineyard Cabernet Franc (Temecula Valley) | Cabernet Franc | Gershon Bachus | |
| 861 | Italy | Pressed wild flower, hay, fennel and ripe berry scents mingle together in the glass. The refreshing palate combines crushed strawberry, juicy red cherry, saline and a hint of baking spice alongside bright acidity. | Rosso | 90 | 30.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Graci 2015 Rosso (Etna) | Nerello Mascalese | Graci | ||
| 862 | Italy | Alluring scents of Spanish broom, iris, berry and a hint of dried herb come together on this. The bright palate offers candied cherry, nectarine zest, white pepper and a hint of fennel while a mineral note signals the finish. | 90 | 19.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Etna | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Tornatore 2015 Rosato (Etna) | Rosato | Tornatore | |||
| 863 | US | Lighter bramble and red-currant fruits pop on the nose of this wine from the appellation's eastern end, as do baking-spice notes, crushed vanilla and hibiscus. It's airy on the palate, with tense cranberry and pomegranate, crushed oregano and dill, pencil lead minerality and a slowly simmering acidity. | Rio Vista Vineyard | 90 | 45.0 | California | Sta. Rita Hills | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | West of Temperance 2012 Rio Vista Vineyard Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills) | Pinot Noir | West of Temperance | |
| 864 | Germany | Quite rare in the U.S. market, this ripe richly berried wine is an excellent example of Frühburgunder, an early ripening mutation of Pinot Noir. Blackberry and plum flavors are fleshy and rich, offset by soft, sunny acidity and a supple silken mouthfeel. It's just faintly tannic and approachable now. | Trocken | 90 | 40.0 | Ahr | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Winzergenossenschaft Mayschoss-Altenahr 2013 Trocken Früburgunder (Ahr) | Früburgunder | Winzergenossenschaft Mayschoss-Altenahr | ||||
| 865 | Italy | This offers heady aromas of honeysuckle, white stone fruit, dill, hay and a vegetal note that recalls tomato leaf. The tangy palate offers juicy grapefruit, white peach and honeydew melon while mouthwatering salinity provides depth. | Laluci | 90 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Baglio del Cristo di Campobello 2015 Laluci White (Sicilia) | White Blend | Baglio del Cristo di Campobello | |||
| 866 | Australia | This is ripe, rich and even a touch tannic—almost more of a light red than a true rosé. This makes it ideally suited to serve alongside summer's various grilled meats. Raspberry and cola flavors finish spicy and round. | Handpicked Grenache | 90 | 25.0 | South Australia | McLaren Vale | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Beresford 2014 Handpicked Grenache Rosé (McLaren Vale) | Rosé | Beresford | ||
| 867 | US | Fresh fruit flavors suggest a bowl full of berries and cherries. Crisp acids help to focus the wine, with spot-on varietal flavors and balance. Both elegant and complex, it's a lovely bottle from an under-the-radar producer. | Estate | 90 | 40.0 | Oregon | Chehalem Mountains | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Carabella 2013 Estate Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains) | Pinot Noir | Carabella | |
| 868 | Chile | Composed berry, spice, herb and oak aromas are complete and inviting. In the mouth, this is ripe and dense, with chewy tannins. Blackberry, mixed herb and dark chocolate flavors are integrated, while this settles nicely on the finish. | Gran Reserva | 90 | 15.0 | Colchagua Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Carmen 2014 Gran Reserva Carmenère (Colchagua Valley) | Carmenère | Carmen | |||
| 869 | US | The most reserved of this winery's Grenache studies, this bottling shows baked red cherry, red currant, cola and slate on the nose. An iron-based minerality shows on the earthy palate, which also offers chipped slate, cranberry and tart cherry elements. It's a tad light but still intriguingly textured. | Larner | 90 | 42.0 | California | Ballard Canyon | Central Coast | Matt Kettmann | @mattkettmann | Casa Dumetz 2014 Larner Grenache (Ballard Canyon) | Grenache | Casa Dumetz | |
| 870 | US | This is an amazingly tasty and focused wine that has the most distinctive black pepper character. It's medium-bodied, dark and smoky looking and quite flavorful, backing up the pepper with lively raspberry notes and staying lively from the first sip to the last. | Estate Bottled | 90 | 29.0 | California | Mendocino Ridge | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Greenwood Ridge 2013 Estate Bottled Syrah (Mendocino Ridge) | Syrah | Greenwood Ridge | ||
| 871 | US | Chocolate and blackberry form an impressively generous and full-bodied personality in this 100% varietal wine aged 22 months in a hearty percentage of new oak. Big tannin and traces of cigar and espresso continue on the brawny theme. | 90 | 42.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Herencia 2013 Merlot (Napa Valley) | Merlot | Herencia | ||
| 872 | US | Not such a rarity these days, Albariño is turning heads in California and Oregon. This tart, juicy, and deliciously fresh effort is loaded with tangy citrus and green apple fruit. It's leesy and textural, tasting of wet stones: in sum, a wonderfully refreshing summer white. | 90 | 18.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | J. Scott Cellars 2015 Albariño (Oregon) | Albariño | J. Scott Cellars | ||
| 873 | Hungary | This delicate Hungarian white wine is a blend of 86% Furmint, 9% Yellow Muscat and 5% Kabar. It has enticing aromas of white flowers, botrytis, gardenia, apple blossom and apricot that prepare your palate for flavors of peach juice, citrus zest, grapefruit juice, caramelized pineapple and a crisp clean finish. | Dry | 90 | 16.0 | Tokaji | Jeff Jenssen | @worldwineguys | Chateau Dereszla 2014 Dry (Tokaji) | White Blend | Chateau Dereszla | |||
| 874 | Portugal | Sousão gives intense color and that, along with its attractive perfume, makes a dense, intensely fruity wine. It is rich and weighty, the tannins well integrated with a ripe, juicy aftertaste. | 90 | 40.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta do Vallado 2009 Sousão (Douro) | Sousão | Quinta do Vallado | ||||
| 875 | Portugal | The latest release from the partnership between the Roquette family of Quinta do Crasto in the Douro and the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages in Bordeaux. The wine brings out considerable minerality, a herbal edge along with forward black currant fruit. It is austerely structured at this stage and needs aging for several years. | 90 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Roquette e Cazes 2007 Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Roquette e Cazes | |||||
| 876 | Spain | Ripe and sweet, with lush, raisiny aromas. The palate is flush, deep and layered, with baked berry, prune, toast and coffee flavors. This is a lot like Vall Llach's signature '07, but it's a bit more restrained and at $50 it's a better deal than the $95 wine. Still, it's a heavyweight to drink now through 2013. | Idus | 90 | 50.0 | Catalonia | Priorat | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Vall Llach 2007 Idus Red (Priorat) | Red Blend | Vall Llach | ||
| 877 | Italy | Here's an elegant and clean blend of Merlot (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from coastal Tuscany that offers intensity and well-measured aromas of ripe cherry, espresso bean and tobacco. The wine is plush and soft, with plump berry notes on the finish. | Alfeo | 90 | Tuscany | Bolgheri Superiore | Ceralti 2008 Alfeo (Bolgheri Superiore) | Red Blend | Ceralti | |||||
| 878 | France | Full-bodied wine, spiced with nutmeg and toast and give richness by sweet blackberry juice flavors. It is densely structured, rich with great fruit character as well as a powerful drive of rich tannins. Age this wine at least four years and more. | 90 | 35.0 | Bordeaux | Saint-Estèphe | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Bel-Air Ortet 2009 Saint-Estèphe | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Bel-Air Ortet | |||
| 879 | France | A solid effort, with attractive, balanced black currant fruits and ripe acidity. The wine layers fruit and integrated tannins. It feels chunky and dense, finishing dry. | 90 | 45.0 | Bordeaux | Margaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Ferrière 2009 Margaux | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Ferrière | |||
| 880 | US | Impressive for its depth and deliciousness. The grapes are from Cline's estate on the Sonoma side of the Carneros district. The wine is dry, full-bodied and tannic, although you can drink it now. It's very rich in blackberries, currants, mushu plum sauce, grilled beef and smoky sandalwood, and seems at its best now. | Sonoma Estate | 90 | 20.0 | California | Los Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Cline 2008 Sonoma Estate Syrah (Los Carneros) | Syrah | Cline | |||
| 881 | Spain | Ripe black fruit aromas aren't overly complex or nuanced but they are generous. Feels tight, gritty and healthy, with firm tannins in front of black cherry and blackberry flavors. Mellows on the finish, where plum and prune flavors take over. Not a hard, fierce Priorat; drink now through 2014. | Coraje | 90 | 44.0 | Catalonia | Priorat | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Fuentes 2008 Coraje Red (Priorat) | Red Blend | Fuentes | ||
| 882 | US | Here's a big, rich, fruity Cabernet that satisfies for its array of blackberry, cherry, currant, mineral and oak flavors. It's dry and tannic, and the overall quality is quite high. The price makes it a good Buy. Drink through 2014 | 90 | 22.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Fuse 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Fuse | ||||
| 883 | Italy | This elegant 80-20 Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc blend delivers mature aromas of ripe berry, black cherry and fresh aromas of dried herbs and powdered licorice. The somewhat subdued bouquet leads to a generous mouthfeel that leaves a long-lasting impression. | Campo al Fico | 90 | Tuscany | Bolgheri Superiore | I Luoghi 2008 Campo al Fico (Bolgheri Superiore) | Red Blend | I Luoghi | |||||
| 884 | US | Pretty dark in color and full bodied for a sparkling wine, even one that's majority Pinot Noir. But it's delicious and dry, which surely are prime requisites for any bubbly. Shows ripe, flashy raspberry, strawberry, orange, vanilla, honey, yeast and toast flavors, and the mouthfeel is silky and refined. | Brut Rose | 90 | 28.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | J Vineyards & Winery NV Brut Rose Sparkling (Russian River Valley) | Sparkling Blend | J Vineyards & Winery | |||
| 885 | US | So soft, silky and sweet in blackberries, cherries and red currants, it could be a big, ripe Pinot Noir. That's a compliment. Petite Sirah can often be overpowering. This one's delicate, elegant and frankly delicious. Best now and over the next four years. | 90 | 27.0 | California | Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma | Kokomo 2008 Petite Sirah (Dry Creek Valley) | Petite Sirah | Kokomo | ||||
| 886 | France | This Grenache-heavy blend (with 20% Syrah) offers a good amount of bittersweet cocoa powder and rich jammy black berries and all-fruit preserves on the nose and mouth. A hint of gaminess adds interest to the bouquet, while the crushed velvet texture and firm tannins transition into a long finish laced with earthy spice. | La Mère Grand | 90 | 25.0 | Languedoc-Roussillon | Minervois | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Loup Blanc 2007 La Mère Grand Red (Minervois) | Rhône-style Red Blend | Loup Blanc | ||
| 887 | Portugal | Aromas of fresh-cut hay lead to a wine that has considerable concentration and good balance from wood aging. Very citrus with pineapple touches, it finishes with an herbaceous feel. The wine comes from a vineyard planted at the end of the 19th century. | Reserva Branco | 90 | 60.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Maritávora 2009 Reserva Branco White (Douro) | Portuguese White | Maritávora | |||
| 888 | US | A complex mix of wild berry, cherry and somewhat brambly fruits provides a substantial core to this wine. The fruit rolls on through a slightly chalky patch, then finishes with a flourish of toast and graphite. | Slide Mountain Vineyard | 90 | 72.0 | Washington | Yakima Valley | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Owen Roe 2009 Slide Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Franc (Yakima Valley) | Cabernet Franc | Owen Roe | |
| 889 | US | A rich, tasty Pinot, packed with black cherry pie filling, cola, orange zest, star anise, cinnamon and sandalwood flavors that finish sweet and long. The texture is satisfying. Drink over the next several years. | Red Label | 90 | 44.0 | California | Sta. Rita Hills | Central Coast | Pacific Ridge 2009 Red Label Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills) | Pinot Noir | Pacific Ridge | |||
| 890 | US | If you like your Voigniers flamboyant, this one's for you. It's an explosion of tangerines, golden mangoes, peaches and pears, with buttery, creamy overtones and a finish of honey. Lots of zesty acidity adds a balancing scour to the mouthfeel. | Estate | 90 | 28.0 | California | Napa Valley | Napa | Phoenix Ranch 2009 Estate Viognier (Napa Valley) | Viognier | Phoenix Ranch | |||
| 891 | US | Delicious is the word that comes to mind drinking this Pinot Noir. It's young and vibrant in acidity, with waves of raspberries, persimmons, honey, cinnamon, cloves and smoky sandalwood. Good over the next five years. | 90 | 29.0 | California | Santa Maria Valley | Central Coast | 2nd Chance 2009 Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) | Pinot Noir | 2nd Chance | ||||
| 892 | US | A riot of licorice, cassis, toast and berry, this 83% Cabernet Sauvignon/17% Petit Verdot Bordeaux-style blend is currently showing a lot of barrel flavors, with subdued but not insignificant fruit. Medium-grained tannins give the finish some gravitas. | Stone Tree Vineyard Intuition Reserve | 90 | 58.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Bergevin Lane 2008 Stone Tree Vineyard Intuition Reserve Red (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Bergevin Lane | |
| 893 | Australia | This is an unusually complex Shiraz for the price, ably marrying meaty-savory notes with tart berries and plenty of weight on the palate. Crisp structure, finishes long, with lingering acids. Drink now–2018. | Heavy Metal | 90 | 15.0 | Australia Other | South Eastern Australia | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Hungerford Hill 2008 Heavy Metal Shiraz (South Eastern Australia) | Shiraz | Hungerford Hill | ||
| 894 | Italy | Jacopo Biondi Santi hits a home run with this beautiful Morellino. The wine is smooth and dense, with lively cherry notes, soft spice and tobacco. It's straightforward and plush, but elegant at the same time. | Castello di Montepò | 90 | 29.0 | Tuscany | Morellino di Scansano | Jacopo Biondi-Santi 2008 Castello di Montepò (Morellino di Scansano) | Sangiovese | Jacopo Biondi-Santi | ||||
| 895 | Italy | Le Buche is an interesting winery to watch, and its various Tuscan blends show great promise. Memento is equal parts Sangiovese and Syrah with a soft, velvety texture and a bright berry finish. | Giuseppe Olivi Memento | 90 | 45.0 | Tuscany | Toscana | Le Buche 2006 Giuseppe Olivi Memento Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Le Buche | ||||
| 896 | US | Aged a little more than two years in 90% new French oak and then in bottle, time has been kind to this wine, a Syrah of dark mushroom and baked blackberry, that's savory and silky with a slight hint of mint on the finish. Mighty and impressive. | Signature Selection | 90 | 70.0 | California | Temecula Valley | South Coast | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Leonesse Cellars 2007 Signature Selection Syrah (Temecula Valley) | Syrah | Leonesse Cellars | |
| 897 | US | Dusty and tight, with a whiff of coffee and cocoa introducing an elegant wine with interesting streaks of metal and graphite. Young fruit and fine tannins are in perfect balance, and the wine has a lovely delicacy. | Dividend | 90 | 39.0 | Washington | Columbia Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Market Vineyards 2008 Dividend Syrah (Columbia Valley (WA)) | Syrah | Market Vineyards | |
| 898 | Italy | This vintage of Marsiliana (the top wine from the Maremma property of Prince Corsini) shows rich tones of espresso, chocolate, dark fruit, leather and spice. The wine is soft and well extracted, with a slightly tough, chewy finish. | 90 | Tuscany | Toscana | Marsiliana 2005 Red (Toscana) | Red Blend | Marsiliana | ||||||
| 899 | Italy | Tuscany's Mazzei family delivers a wonderful Chianti Classico from their Fonterutoli estate that would pair perfectly with grilled meats or oven-roasted pasta. This is a soft, lush wine with bright cherry and spice notes, which drive a long, velvety finish. | Fonterutoli | 90 | 28.0 | Tuscany | Chianti Classico | Mazzei 2009 Fonterutoli (Chianti Classico) | Sangiovese | Mazzei | ||||
| 900 | Spain | It has taken a few years but Morlanda has reached a nice place with this wine. Look for ripeness and concentrated black fruit aromas, and then a ripe palate with herbal blackberry and chocolate. Smooth on the finish, with a tiny bit of burn. Drink now through 2014. | Criança | 90 | 48.0 | Catalonia | Priorat | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Morlanda 2007 Criança Red (Priorat) | Red Blend | Morlanda | ||
| 901 | Portugal | A wood-aged white, spicy and ripe. It has just the right balance of acidity to go with the ripe green plum and melon fruits. With a great bite of acidity to finish, this is a wine that will age for 3–4 years. | Reserva Branco | 90 | 50.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta do Vallado 2010 Reserva Branco White (Douro) | Portuguese White | Quinta do Vallado | |||
| 902 | US | White lily, popcorn kernel, citrus spray and underripe peach lead the well-integrated and restrained nose. The palate follows suit, remaining quiet and delicate in flavor concentration, yet loud in weight and texture. Salty citrus lingers on the finish. | Reserve Bingham Vineyard | 87 | 22.0 | Texas | Texas High Plains | Alexander Peartree | Becker 2014 Reserve Bingham Vineyard Roussanne (Texas High Plains) | Roussanne | Becker | |||
| 903 | Germany | Whiffs of smoke and nuts mingle into tart tangerine and lime flavors in this refreshing off-dry Riesling. Juicy and fresh, it's a straightforward, revitalizing sip. Drink now through 2018. | 87 | 10.0 | Nahe | Anna Lee C. Iijima | Bex 2014 Riesling (Nahe) | Riesling | Bex | |||||
| 904 | Italy | Aromas of leather, vineyard dust, dried violet and a whiff of pressed powder lead the nose. The simple palate isn't very expressive, showing sour red cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside close-grained tannins that dry out the finish. | Pajè | 87 | 50.0 | Piedmont | Barbaresco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Boffa 2013 Pajè (Barbaresco) | Nebbiolo | Boffa | ||
| 905 | US | An enticing mix of dark berries and fatty, cured sausage makes for an interesting nose. There's good structure and balance on the palate with this southern Italian transplant. It's juicy, ripe and ready for barbecue. | Super Nero | 87 | 30.0 | Texas | Texas | Alexander Peartree | Brennan 2014 Super Nero Nero d'Avola (Texas) | Nero d'Avola | Brennan | |||
| 906 | US | Peach, canned tropical fruit and white flower aromas are pristine on the nose. The medium-bodied palate shows a balance of juicy peach and pineapple, with streaks of chalk and a vein of acidity. This is clean, succinct and perfectly enjoyable on its own. | Reddy Vineyard | 87 | 18.0 | Texas | Texas High Plains | Alexander Peartree | Brennan 2015 Reddy Vineyard Roussanne (Texas High Plains) | Roussanne | Brennan | |||
| 907 | Portugal | A fresh lemon-flavored wine with crisp acidity balanced by warmer white-stone fruit. It is fruity, showing a touch of toast and almonds. Drink now. | Bruto | 87 | 30.0 | Vinho Verde | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Casa de Vilacetinho 2013 Bruto Avesso (Vinho Verde) | Avesso | Casa de Vilacetinho | |||
| 908 | Italy | The nose isn't very expressive, offering aromas of toasted hazelnut, while the dense, simple palate shows dried black cherry and licorice. It's shy on freshness and has round but rather fleeting tannins. Drink through 2018. | 87 | 39.0 | Piedmont | Barbaresco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Cascina Bruciata 2013 Barbaresco | Nebbiolo | Cascina Bruciata | |||
| 909 | Italy | This opens with aromas of toast, oak, menthol, resin, coffee bean and medicinal notes. The aromas carry over to the firm palate, along with thyme, clove, licorice and bracing tannins. | 87 | 35.0 | Piedmont | Barbaresco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Castello di Neive 2013 Barbaresco | Nebbiolo | Castello di Neive | |||
| 910 | Argentina | Flat in color, with a dull luster, this smells mulchy and earthy, with dampness to the nose. A thick, medicinal palate is dealing severe tannins embedded into a syrupy texture. Flavors of fig, raisin and earth are a little spent. | Grand Vin | 87 | 30.0 | Mendoza Province | Vista Flores | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Antucura 2011 Grand Vin Red (Vista Flores) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Antucura | ||
| 911 | France | Juicy dark plum, cherry and boysenberry are upfront on the nose, with additional seductive hints of purple violet and vanilla. The palate is plush and fruit-forward, with ample acidity and medium tannins that lend pleasant structure. Accents of sweet spice grace the finish. | Samsó Seulle | 87 | 23.0 | France Other | Vin de France | Lauren Buzzeo | @laurbuzz | Frédéric Brouca 2013 Samsó Seulle Cinsault (Vin de France) | Cinsault | Frédéric Brouca | ||
| 912 | US | This light, refreshing rosé mixes fresh strawberry fruit with apple-flavored acids. It's finished bone dry, with an almost dusty mouthfeel (in a good kind of way). | Three Otters Pinot Noir | 87 | 18.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Fullerton 2015 Three Otters Pinot Noir Rosé (Willamette Valley) | Rosé | Fullerton | |
| 913 | Amber in color, this wine has aromas of peach jam and orange blossom. Flavors are a mélange of mellow fruit and savory notes, in particular apricot, lemon curd, quince and bitter almond. Despite strong tannins, there are moments of brightness across the entire palate that linger into the finish. | Asureti Valley | 87 | 30.0 | Mike DeSimone | @worldwineguys | Gotsa Family Wines 2014 Asureti Valley Chinuri | Chinuri | Gotsa Family Wines | |||||
| 914 | Argentina | Smashed berry aromas are backed by earth and toasty oak notes. Fairly hard and tannic on the palate, this shows herbal plum flavors in front of a bold finish with dry tannins and a hint of wood spice. | Grand Reserve | 87 | 20.0 | Other | San Juan | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Graffigna 2012 Grand Reserve Malbec (San Juan) | Malbec | Graffigna | ||
| 915 | US | This is smooth and accessible, putting a light chocolate frame around rhubarb and strawberry fruit. There's a hint of pepper, and the wine is fresh and youthful, good sipping wine for late summer/early fall. | Atração | 87 | 25.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Coelho 2014 Atração Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Coelho | |
| 916 | US | Quite tart, the fruit here touches (just barely) on melon, with orange and lemon zest, a bit of lime, and plenty of acid. All stainless fermented, it went through full malolactic. | Renovação Estate Vineyards | 87 | 20.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Coelho 2015 Renovação Estate Vineyards Pinot Gris (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Gris | Coelho | |
| 917 | Italy | This has aromas suggesting grilled herb, toasted oak, espresso and a whiff of wet animal fur. The palate offers dried cherry, game, anisette and a green note of bitter sage alongside extremely astringent tannins. | Bussia | 87 | 50.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Deltetto 2012 Bussia (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Deltetto | ||
| 918 | Italy | This opens with aromas of toasted oak, roasted coffee bean and a whiff of sawdust. The bracing palate offers dried cherry, espresso and mocha alongside astringent tannins. Give the tannins another year or two to unwind then drink to capture the remaining fruit. | Ginestra | 87 | 50.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Diego Conterno 2012 Ginestra (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Diego Conterno | ||
| 919 | Argentina | Despite looking gold and mature, this PG exceeds expectations courtesy of waxy, baked-apple aromas and a full but balanced mouthfeel. Spiced apple, apricot and burnt orange flavors finish long due to core acidity. Drink immediately. | Reserve | 87 | 15.0 | Mendoza Province | Tupungato | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Domaine Bousquet 2015 Reserve Pinot Gris (Tupungato) | Pinot Gris | Domaine Bousquet | ||
| 920 | Australia | Green beans and snap peas give this Sauvignon Blanc a green cast overall, but there's some citrus and gooseberry fruit as well. It's clean and refreshing on the finish. | Breathing Space | 87 | Australia Other | Australia | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Evans & Tate 2015 Breathing Space Sauvignon Blanc (Australia) | Sauvignon Blanc | Evans & Tate | |||
| 921 | Portugal | A blend of Fernão Pires and Arinto, this is totally crisp and refreshingly fruity. It is perfumed, smooth while also cut with acidity. The acidity comes from both citrus and pineapple flavors. Drink now. | Conde Vimioso Colheita Seleccionada Branco | 87 | 9.0 | Tejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Falua 2015 Conde Vimioso Colheita Seleccionada Branco White (Tejo) | Portuguese White | Falua | |||
| 922 | Argentina | Aromas of citrus and petrol are backed by a juicy palate with tangy acidity and semisharp flavors of peach, tangerine and stone-fruit pits. Fresh, citrusy length and a lingering note of orange are the finish. | Altosur | 87 | 12.0 | Mendoza Province | Tupungato | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Finca Sophenia 2015 Altosur Sauvignon Blanc (Tupungato) | Sauvignon Blanc | Finca Sophenia | ||
| 923 | Portugal | Known in Spain as Graciano, this grape produces attractive, fruity wine especially in the Tejo region. This example is ripe with layers of acidity as well as a generous texture. Soft and smooth, it is ready to drink. | 87 | 14.0 | Tejo | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Fiuza 2015 Red (Tejo) | Tinta Miúda | Fiuza | ||||
| 924 | Australia | This medium-bodied wine features aromas of green apple and crushed stone, while the flavors turn citrusy, veering toward lime and grapefruit. It's nicely silky in texture, while a hint of snow pea marks the finish. | 87 | 18.0 | South Australia | Adelaide Hills | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Sidewood 2014 Sauvignon Blanc (Adelaide Hills) | Sauvignon Blanc | Sidewood | |||
| 925 | US | An earthy, nutty aroma and flavor come through the intense sweetness and full body of this dessert-style wine. It goes for earthy complexity rather than obvious fruit flavors, and tastes high in sugar and alcohol. | Vin Doux Naturel | 87 | 20.0 | California | Shenandoah Valley (CA) | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Terre Rouge 2013 Vin Doux Naturel Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains (Shenandoah Valley (CA)) | Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains | Terre Rouge | |
| 926 | Argentina | This Malbec is a collection of disparate parts that doesn't justify its price. Reduced plum and grapy berry aromas come with woodsy notes of menthol and cola. Highly herbal, saucy, savory flavors are more oaky than fruity, while this finishes with muscular tannins and savory, grapy notes. | Roll Fermentor | 87 | 175.0 | Mendoza Province | Tupungato | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Antonio Mas 2011 Roll Fermentor Malbec (Tupungato) | Malbec | Antonio Mas | ||
| 927 | Portugal | This is crisp and fresh medium-sweet wine. It is bright with red-currant acidity and ripe with a strawberry and cream flavor. The wine is clean, lively and, of course, ready to drink. | Casal Garcia Rosé | 87 | 12.0 | Vinho Verde | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Aveleda NV Casal Garcia Rosé Sparkling (Vinho Verde) | Portuguese Sparkling | Aveleda | |||
| 928 | Italy | Cellar floor, eucalyptus, black spice and a note recalling grilled celery lead the nose. The ripe palate offers mature black cherry, star anise and a hint of orange zest while assertive, tightly knit tannins leave an astringent finish. | 87 | 60.0 | Piedmont | Barbaresco | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Battaglio 2013 Barbaresco | Nebbiolo | Battaglio | |||
| 929 | US | This full-bodied wine is in the classic mode, offering very ripe and even overripe aromas. Voluptuous berry flavors verge on sweet, and the rich texture comes without a lot of drying tannin. | Estate | 87 | 20.0 | California | Amador County | Sierra Foothills | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Bella Grace 2013 Estate Zinfandel (Amador County) | Zinfandel | Bella Grace | |
| 930 | Argentina | Roasted, woodsy, rubbery aromas are gamy and staunch, with berry notes interspersed. Grabby, rubbery tannins make for a rugged palate, while roasted plum and gamy flavors are a touch salty. A tannic finish doesn't change much. | Alberti 154 | 87 | 15.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Bodega Calle 2014 Alberti 154 Malbec (Mendoza) | Malbec | Bodega Calle | ||
| 931 | Italy | Berry, menthol and a hint of espresso aromas lead the way while the straightforward palate shows mature black-skinned berry, coffee and a hint of licorice. It's already approachable. Drink through 2020. | 87 | 35.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Borgogno F.lli Serio e Battista 2012 Barolo | Nebbiolo | Borgogno F.lli Serio e Battista | |||
| 932 | France | The wood flavors are still prominent in this spicy wine. Heavily influenced by rich Merlot, the wine is lightly structured and more about juicy red fruits. Tannins in the back give enough shape, although it will be ready to drink from early 2017. | Tradition | 87 | 14.0 | Bordeaux | Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château les Petits Arnauds 2014 Tradition (Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château les Petits Arnauds | ||
| 933 | France | While the wine is firm and tannic at this early stage, it does have the potential to bring out a more fruity character. The red-berry fruits and acidity are there, promising a fresh wine from 2018. | 87 | 16.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Supérieur | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Mougneaux 2014 Bordeaux Supérieur | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Mougneaux | |||
| 934 | France | Ripe fruit and balanced acidity allow this wine to make room for touches of wood aging. It has spice, a smoky character and attractive finishing freshness. Drink from 2017 when the wine will be fully balanced. | Vieilles Vignes | 87 | 15.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Saintongey 2014 Vieilles Vignes (Bordeaux) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Saintongey | ||
| 935 | France | From a estate in the Marmet family since 1990, the wine has ripe Merlot flavors that give a generous character. Big, bold fruitiness dominates this wine whose structure is firm while smooth. Drink starting from 2019. | Vieilles Vignes | 87 | 14.0 | Bordeaux | Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Ségonzac 2014 Vieilles Vignes (Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Ségonzac | ||
| 936 | US | This is surprisingly light, having dropped significantly in alcohol from the previous vintage. Green-fruit flavors touch on banana and apple, and the wood—31% new and 26% once-used—seems to show a bit of rawness. Give this another couple of years of bottle age before opening. | Ian's Reserve | 87 | 40.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Chehalem 2013 Ian's Reserve Chardonnay (Willamette Valley) | Chardonnay | Chehalem | |
| 937 | US | This is a pleasant white wine, albeit rather generic, as Pinot Blanc is prone to be. Crisp apple flavors and a touch of grapefruit are the focus. Drink chilled and enjoy it while it's still young and fresh. | Stoller Vineyards | 87 | 29.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Chehalem 2015 Stoller Vineyards Pinot Blanc (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Blanc | Chehalem | |
| 938 | Spain | Earthy, cool aromas of wet cement, raisin and raspberry are a bit flat. This feels drawing and tannic, with flavors of tomato, red plum, currant and raspberry. A full-size finish is comfortable but not very complex. | II Crianza | 87 | 15.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Covila 2013 II Crianza (Rioja) | Tempranillo | Covila | ||
| 939 | US | This wine puts jammy aromas, very ripe flavors, full body and deep, dark fruit flavors on a broad, soft texture. | Melange d'Amis Reserve | 87 | 55.0 | California | Livermore Valley | Central Coast | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Cuda Ridge Wines 2013 Melange d'Amis Reserve Red (Livermore Valley) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Cuda Ridge Wines | |
| 940 | France | Neatly divided between the three major grapes of Champagne, this full, ripe wine is packed with rich apple and pear fruits. It is crisp while showing a high dosage giving a softer, smoother aftertaste. Drink this bottling now. | Grande Réserve Premier Cru Brut | 87 | 38.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Duménil NV Grande Réserve Premier Cru Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Duménil | ||
| 941 | Spain | Cool aromas of cola, leather and black cherry set up a fairly full but fresh palate with moderate creamy weight. This tastes reedy and spicy, with wild-berry fruit, peppery notes and a distinct flavor of creamy oak. On the finish, this is oaky and herbal tasting. | Goru Verde | 87 | 15.0 | Levante | Jumilla | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Ego Bodegas 2014 Goru Verde Monastrell (Jumilla) | Monastrell | Ego Bodegas | ||
| 942 | US | Stewy plum and cherry jam lie at the heart of this densely layered, though silky-smooth wine, light bodied and ethereal despite the ripeness of fruit flavor. It finishes simply and without fuss. | 87 | 34.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Ektimo Vineyards 2014 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) | Pinot Noir | Ektimo Vineyards | ||
| 943 | Spain | Slightly gritty aromas are just barely ripe enough. This feels tight, acidic and like tomato juice. Flavors of salty berry fruits, tomato, oak and vanilla are modest but complete. Given how cool 2013 was in Rioja, this is quite good. | Crianza | 87 | 18.0 | Northern Spain | Rioja | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Finca del Marquesado 2013 Crianza (Rioja) | Tempranillo Blend | Finca del Marquesado | ||
| 944 | US | Sharply defined, this has piercing, penetrating high notes that are both floral and fruity. Its lemon and tangerine fruit is amped up with some alcoholic burn. Aerating it helps to smooth it out. | Estate | 87 | 27.0 | Oregon | Rogue Valley | Southern Oregon | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Folin Cellars 2015 Estate Viognier (Rogue Valley) | Viognier | Folin Cellars | |
| 945 | US | Director's sources from vineyards across the county to offer an intensity of fruit flavor that tends lush and ripe. Melon and vanilla appear on the nose and palate, with a side tone of pineapple, nutmeg and even clove, finishing clean and with simplicity. | Director's | 87 | 17.0 | California | Sonoma County | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Francis Coppola 2014 Director's Chardonnay (Sonoma County) | Chardonnay | Francis Coppola | |
| 946 | US | Small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah are blended within this wine, given 17 months in new French oak plus once and twice-used barrels. The oak is integrated within this otherwise leathery, tannic and mild-mannered wine, ripe in cherry and cassis. | Reserve Winston Hill Vineyard | 87 | 65.0 | California | Rutherford | Napa | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Frank Family 2013 Reserve Winston Hill Vineyard Sangiovese (Rutherford) | Sangiovese | Frank Family | |
| 947 | Portugal | Just lightly touched by wood this is a bright and fruity wine that is ready to drink. Spice and red-berry fruits dominate, lifted by balanced tannins. Drink now. | Evel Tinto | 87 | 13.0 | Douro | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Real Companhia Velha 2014 Evel Tinto Red (Douro) | Portuguese Red | Real Companhia Velha | |||
| 948 | Portugal | It is the 30% Alicante Bouschet in the blend that gives the dense color to this ripe wine. Concentrate and rich, the generous berry flavors are balanced by a more restrained acidity and smoky flavors. The wine is ready to drink. | Santos da Casa Tinto | 87 | 15.0 | Alentejano | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Santos & Seixo 2014 Santos da Casa Tinto Red (Alentejano) | Portuguese Red | Santos & Seixo | |||
| 949 | Italy | Fragrant and fresh, this easy-drinking red has alluring scents of woodland berry, violet and a whiff of freshly tilled soil. The taut, luminous palate offers sour cherry and star anise accompanied by polished tannins and racy acidity. | 87 | 23.0 | Piedmont | Coste della Sesia | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Travaglini 2014 Nebbiolo (Coste della Sesia) | Nebbiolo | Travaglini | |||
| 950 | US | With a richness to the nose, this wine possesses a medium-sized body and moderate acidity, showcasing ripe apple, pear and tropical elements. The finish is focused in simple notions of preserved lemon and pineapple. | 87 | 40.0 | California | Los Carneros | Napa-Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Vine Cliff 2014 Chardonnay (Los Carneros) | Chardonnay | Vine Cliff | ||
| 951 | US | This is a highly structured wine with an abundance of fine-grained tannins and firm acidity to support pure raspberry and blackberry flavors. It tastes as if it was made for aging, so wait and drink after 2019. | Rennie Vineyard Organic Grapes | 87 | 32.0 | California | Yorkville Highlands | North Coast | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Yorkville Cellars 2013 Rennie Vineyard Organic Grapes Petit Verdot (Yorkville Highlands) | Petit Verdot | Yorkville Cellars | |
| 952 | Spain | Dusty stone-fruit aromas suggest yeast and nectarine. This varietal Xarel-lo feels citrusy and spunky; flavors of melon, orange and nectarine are good but standard on the finish. Overall, this is linear and fairly basic for white wine. | XIC | 87 | 16.0 | Catalonia | Penedès | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Agustí Torelló Mata 2015 XIC Xarel-lo (Penedès) | Xarel-lo | Agustí Torelló Mata | ||
| 953 | US | This new “i” series offering mixes brambly strawberry fruit with granular tannins. It's ready to drink, dappled with cinnamon, and leaves a slightly medicinal aftertaste in the back of the mouth. | i | 87 | 38.0 | Oregon | Willamette Valley | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Amalie Robert 2012 i Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley) | Pinot Noir | Amalie Robert | |
| 954 | US | Full-bodied and smooth in texture, this generous-tasting wine has lots of ripe plum flavors and sweet-seeming oak accents. | Reserve Bottling | 87 | 15.0 | California | Lodi | Central Valley | Jim Gordon | @gordone_cellars | Archgate Cellars 2014 Reserve Bottling Cabernet Sauvignon (Lodi) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Archgate Cellars | |
| 955 | Italy | This offers scents and flavors that recall stewed prune, raisin and black pepper. It's still tight, with aggressive tannins that leave a firm clenching finish. Give it a few years to let the tannins unfurl then drink up to capture the remaining fruit. | Nirvasco | 87 | 50.0 | Piedmont | Barolo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Bersano 2012 Nirvasco (Barolo) | Nebbiolo | Bersano | ||
| 956 | Italy | Here's a fun, informal sparkler that has aromas of citrus, orchard fruit and toast. The racy palate shows golden apple, pear, bitter almond and a lemon drop note. | Anni Venti Metodo Classico | 87 | 30.0 | Southern Italy | Greco di Tufo | Kerin O’Keefe | @kerinokeefe | Cantine di Marzo NV Anni Venti Metodo Classico (Greco di Tufo) | Greco | Cantine di Marzo | ||
| 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 | 24.0 | California | Russian River Valley | Sonoma | Virginie Boone | @vboone | Carica 2015 Ritchie Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley) | Sauvignon Blanc | Carica | |
| 958 | Spain | Crisp plum and red-bell-pepper aromas lead to a healthy, mostly fresh palate with some weight to it. A mix of citrus and red-plum flavors ends long, without much, if any, unwanted pithiness or bitterness. | Wine Wings Garnacha | 87 | 18.0 | Northern Spain | Cariñena | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Ignacio Marín 2015 Wine Wings Garnacha Rosé (Cariñena) | Rosé | Ignacio Marín | ||
| 959 | France | Partially from Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, this wine is soft, ripe and balanced, with a ripe dosage that contrasts with citrus acidity. It has a fine, cool texture. | Brut Mosaïque | 87 | 40.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Jacquart NV Brut Mosaïque (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Jacquart | ||
| 960 | France | This is a fragrant, spicy wine that is shot through with red fruits and fine acidity. The 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon blend is still firm with its tannins although the acidity and bright fruit are well in balance. Drink from 2018. | 87 | 18.0 | Bordeaux | Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Cap Saint-Martin 2014 Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Cap Saint-Martin | |||
| 961 | France | This is a ripe wine and full of fruit. It has structure as well with its firm tannins and smoky backdrop. It will broaden out well and give a rich wine from 2018. | 87 | 20.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Supérieur | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château de Bel 2014 Bordeaux Supérieur | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château de Bel | |||
| 962 | France | A balanced wine, with softness that indicates a relatively high dosage. There is no complexity, but the wine is light, creamy, flavored with green plums and kiwi, just edged with bitterness. | Demoiselle Tête de Cuvée Brut | 85 | 40.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Vranken NV Demoiselle Tête de Cuvée Brut (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Vranken | ||
| 963 | France | From a large 177-acre estate in the southern Graves, this wine shows plenty of stalky, black currant fruits, fresh acidity and spice from wood. It has just the right characters for a food Bordeaux, dry core of tannins and vivid fruit around. | 85 | 11.0 | Bordeaux | Graves | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Pavillon de Boyrein 2006 Graves | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Château Pavillon de Boyrein | |||
| 964 | Italy | Here's a Trebbiano-based wine from the Lake Garda area in northern Italy that delivers smooth consistency and expressive notes of stone fruit, citrus, honey and crushed stone. The wine would pair well with lake fish or vegetable dishes. | Argillaia | 85 | 17.0 | Lombardy | Lugana | Fabiano 2006 Argillaia (Lugana) | Trebbiano | Fabiano | ||||
| 965 | Italy | Packaged in a heavy, oversized black bottle, this brawny wine delivers power, bulging muscle and aromas that exaggerate in every way possible. The most noticeable feature (so noticeable, it knocks you in the face) is the wood element that comes off as fresh carpentry or wood shavings. The wine is heavy, syrupy and sweet tasting. | Vecchie Vigne | 85 | 48.0 | Southern Italy | Primitivo di Manduria | Vinosia 2006 Vecchie Vigne (Primitivo di Manduria) | Primitivo | Vinosia | ||||
| 966 | New Zealand | The 2004 and 2005 vintages of this wine were priced at $15, which gives some idea how fast the supply of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has increased. Kono's 2008 is on the light side, but tart and zippy, with a refreshing aspect to its pineapple and grapefruit flavors and herbal overtones. Drink now. | 85 | 9.0 | Marlborough | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Kono 2008 Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) | Sauvignon Blanc | Kono | ||||
| 967 | Chile | Light and tropical, with buttercup aromas and a touch of citrus. The palate is plump and slightly oily, but with good acidity. Apple, mango and banana flavors are fruity and sweet, but overall the wine holds it together. Drink right away. | Selected Terroir | 85 | 10.0 | Casablanca Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Santa Ema 2008 Selected Terroir Chardonnay (Casablanca Valley) | Chardonnay | Santa Ema | |||
| 968 | Italy | Corvina, Rondinella and Dindarella—three grapes native to the Verona area of Northern Italy—make up this fresh and lively, easy-sipping rosé. The wine awards pretty aromas of raspberry and white cherry. | Chiaretto | 85 | Veneto | Bardolino Classico | Tommasi 2006 Chiaretto (Bardolino Classico) | Rosé | Tommasi | |||||
| 969 | Chile | Good introductory Carmenère. It's a touch green, which is common for this quality level, but there's also some coconut and mild burnt aromas to wade through. Lively and clanky on the palate, with red fruit, bramble and herbal snap. Good if you're not expecting too much. | Pionero | 85 | 9.0 | Maipo Valley | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Morandé 2008 Pionero Carmenère (Maipo Valley) | Carmenère | Morandé | |||
| 970 | US | A little tough and gritty, but okay for everyday fare. Shows blackberry, currant, tobacco and herb flavors that turn sweetly fruity on the finish. | 85 | 19.0 | California | California | California Other | One Hope 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (California) | Cabernet Sauvignon | One Hope | ||||
| 971 | France | Although it is labeled “Extra Dry” (that is sweeter than Brut), this lively Champagne in its festive little pink bottle is very fresh, with delicious acidity. It finishes lightly, easily. | Pop Rosé Extra Dry | 85 | 15.0 | Champagne | Champagne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Pommery NV Pop Rosé Extra Dry (Champagne) | Champagne Blend | Pommery | ||
| 972 | US | Sweet in jammy apricots and pineapples, with even richer notes of smoky vanilla and buttered toast. Crisp acidity fortunately provides some balance. From Venge Vineyards. | 85 | 23.0 | California | Clarksburg | Central Valley | Saddleback 2008 Viognier (Clarksburg) | Viognier | Saddleback | ||||
| 973 | US | A bit earthy and herbal, and soft, with cherry and cocoa fruit flavors. The acidity and tannin structure could be firmer. | Alexander School Reserve Big Barrel | 85 | 35.0 | California | Alexander Valley | Sonoma | Alexander Valley Vineyards 2006 Alexander School Reserve Big Barrel Syrah (Alexander Valley) | Syrah | Alexander Valley Vineyards | |||
| 974 | US | It's soft, slightly oxidized, and generic. It's pleasantly quaffable, marked in the finish by some rather bitter toast. | Rough House Red | 85 | 30.0 | Washington | Walla Walla Valley (WA) | Columbia Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Covington 2006 Rough House Red Red (Walla Walla Valley (WA)) | Red Blend | Covington | |
| 975 | Italy | Fabio Sireci is behind some of Sicily's best Nero d'Avola and has more recently decided to flex his winemaker muscle on Pinot Noir. The results are a tad jammy and muddled (his vineyards are smack in the middle of the Mediterranean island), ending with ripe aromas of prune and raisin. | P | 85 | 12.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Feudo Montoni 2008 P Pinot Noir (Sicilia) | Pinot Noir | Feudo Montoni | ||||
| 976 | US | Clean and crisp, with rich flavors of citrus, pear, green apple, vanilla and honey. Finishes with that well-known K-J sweetness. A blend based on Sauvignon Blanc. | Summation Vintner's Reserve | 85 | 17.0 | California | California | California Other | Kendall-Jackson 2008 Summation Vintner's Reserve White (California) | White Blend | Kendall-Jackson | |||
| 977 | US | Sweet and simple, with pleasantly exotic flavors of pineapples, green apples, pears, honeysuckle flowers, minerals, spices, vanilla, brown sugar and smoky oak. Easy to drink. | Estate Grown | 85 | 16.0 | California | Suisun Valley | North Coast | Ledgewood Creek 2007 Estate Grown Viognier (Suisun Valley) | Viognier | Ledgewood Creek | |||
| 978 | US | A little on the sweet side, but crisp in acidity, and front-loaded with pineapple, grapefruit, tangerine, honeysuckle and spicy vanilla flavors. Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Blanc, Chardonnay and Roussanne. | White X | 85 | 15.0 | California | North Coast | North Coast | X 2008 White X White (North Coast) | White Blend | X | |||
| 979 | France | A heavy dose of Sauvignon Blanc brings herbaceous, grassy, white currants and gooseberry flavors. It's young, and needs more time to coalesce. It is certainly fresh, fruity, right up front. | Sauvignon | 85 | 10.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Château Lamothe-Vincent 2008 Sauvignon (Bordeaux Blanc) | Sauvignon Blanc | Château Lamothe-Vincent | ||
| 980 | Italy | This wine doesn't seem to have fully evolved and its aromas are muddled in places with notes of mature fruit and natural rubber. In the mouth it has red fruit flavors and tight tannins, but it generally lacks definition. | Capitel della Crosara | 85 | 41.0 | Veneto | Amarone della Valpolicella Classico | Montresor 2003 Capitel della Crosara (Amarone della Valpolicella Classico) | Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara | Montresor | ||||
| 981 | France | This totally fresh wine has benefited from the quality of whites in 2007 Bordeaux. It is lemony with pink grapefruit flavors giving an intense lift. There is some herbaceousness, with green herbs and juicy fruits. To drink now. | Premius Bordeaux Sauvignon | 85 | 10.0 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blanc | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Yvon Mau 2007 Premius Bordeaux Sauvignon (Bordeaux Blanc) | Sauvignon Blanc | Yvon Mau | ||
| 982 | Italy | This is a northern Italian Cabernet with a light, informal style and low intensity. The wine delivers measured aromas of cherry, pine, cedar and ends with a crisp note of acidity. | Col di Luna | 85 | 16.0 | Veneto | Piave | Bellenda 2005 Col di Luna Cabernet Sauvignon (Piave) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Bellenda | ||||
| 983 | US | Off-dry, with sugary flavors of apricots, pears, flowers, vanilla and dusty Asian spices. Crisp acidity provides needed balance. Try with Vietnamese, Thai or Burmese fare. | 85 | 25.0 | California | Anderson Valley | Breggo 2008 Gewürztraminer (Anderson Valley) | Gewürztraminer | Breggo | |||||
| 984 | Romania | An intriguing nose of tobacco, mint, cherry and spice leads this earthy red. Flavors of spice, tobacco, red berry and tea are supported by ageable tannins and good complexity. | Rosso di Valachia | 85 | 12.0 | Dealu Mare | Susan Kostrzewa | @suskostrzewa | Byzantium 2005 Rosso di Valachia Red (Dealu Mare) | Red Blend | Byzantium | |||
| 985 | Argentina | Coconut and dill aromas rise from the nose, and they are surrounded by berry, cassis and floral scents. The palate is tight, honest and a little hard, with middle-of-the-road berry flavors tinged with herbs. There's size and power to this wine, but also balance. Compared to previous years, it's a little less generous but still a good way to go. | Reserve Las Barrancas Vineyards | 88 | 20.0 | Mendoza Province | Mendoza | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Pascual Toso 2007 Reserve Las Barrancas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendoza) | Cabernet Sauvignon | Pascual Toso | ||
| 986 | Portugal | This is a sweet, rich Port. Its aromas are of soft berry jelly, with a ripe herbal character. To taste, it is concentrated, but the sweetness of the fruit masks its density. Berry and dried fruits make an attractive blend, leaving a firmer structure in the aftertaste. | Late Bottled Vintage | 88 | Port | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Quinta de la Rosa 2004 Late Bottled Vintage (Port) | Port | Quinta de la Rosa | ||||
| 987 | Australia | While lacking the vibrant fruit typical of the variety, there are some attractive hay and honey scents on nose. The full-bodied and soft-textured palate is cloaked in vanilla, which lingers on the finish. | 88 | 25.0 | South Australia | Barossa Valley | Sieber Rd 2007 Viognier (Barossa Valley) | Viognier | Sieber Rd | |||||
| 988 | US | This is a classic, high-acid vintage. The strength is fruit, and it's a mix of citrus and light pineapple; all stainless fermented and finished at moderate alcohol. Quite different in style from the '06, but well-made. | 88 | 20.0 | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon Other | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | Lachini 2007 Pinot Gris (Oregon) | Pinot Gris | Lachini | ||
| 989 | Spain | Mauro will always show you a lot, but frankly this 2005 seems soft and chunky. It has rich, baked, black-fruit aromas and then a mildly syrupy palate with huge blackberry and cassis flavors. The finish is wide and rich, but where are the tannins and structure that this wine is known for? Drink now for best results; it may not improve in the cellar. A Europvin, Christopher Cannan selection, imported by multiple importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines. | 88 | 53.0 | Northern Spain | Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León | Michael Schachner | @wineschach | Mauro 2005 Red (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León) | Tempranillo Blend | Mauro | |||
| 990 | US | Good price for a crisp white wine that's this polished. Nice on its own for the savory citrus, spearmint and spicy vanilla flavors, and fine with everything from fried chicken to Cantonese. | 88 | 12.0 | California | California | California Other | Dancing Bull 2007 Sauvignon Blanc (California) | Sauvignon Blanc | Dancing Bull | ||||
| 991 | France | A remarkably rich, spicy, attractive red. It obviously has new wood, but its use is judicious, leaving the mint, black berry and soft tannins of the fruit to come through well. | Les Mirlandes | 88 | Southwest France | Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine de Mirail 2005 Les Mirlandes Red (Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne) | Bordeaux-style Red Blend | Domaine de Mirail | |||
| 992 | France | Made from Fer Servadou, Duras and Syrah, this is a wine with a truly local pedigree and a modern style, with prominent new wood. There are aromas that talk of wild heather and a dry landscape and palate notes of spice, ripe berries and prunes. | Grande Tradition | 88 | 14.0 | Southwest France | Gaillac | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine des Terrisses 2006 Grande Tradition Red (Gaillac) | Red Blend | Domaine des Terrisses | ||
| 993 | France | A delicious wine, the Chenin Blanc giving both mineral and spice flavors, contrasting with the richer Chardonnay. Apricot and sweet melon flavors are supported by a fine, surprisingly complex structure. Fresh currants mark the refreshing finish. | 88 | 12.0 | Southwest France | Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Domaine du Tariquet 2007 Chenin Blanc-Chardonnay (Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne) | Chenin Blanc-Chardonnay | Domaine du Tariquet | |||
| 994 | France | An enticingly perfumed wine, with its white flowers and apricot blossom. The palate is soft, rich, moving towards yellow fruits, ripe pink grapefruit and just an edge of mineral chalkiness. | Les Belles Vignes | 88 | 22.0 | Loire Valley | Sancerre | Roger Voss | @vossroger | Fournier Père et Fils 2006 Les Belles Vignes (Sancerre) | Sauvignon Blanc | Fournier Père et Fils | ||
| 995 | Italy | Edèlmio is a sophisticated and toasty blend of Carricante and Chardonnay with fragrant aromas of stone fruit, peach, mineral, almond and freshly chopped pear. The wine is broad and generous in terms of its mouthfeel and would make a perfect companion to swordfish with mint and roasted eggplant. | Edèlmio | 88 | 26.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Benanti 2006 Edèlmio White (Sicilia) | White Blend | Benanti | ||||
| 996 | Italy | Here's a Syrah with bursting aromas of mature blueberry, cherry, spice and smoked bacon. The wine is full, round and generous with a supple feel and soft concentration. Pair it with lamb or roasted pork. | Terre di Giumara | 88 | 14.0 | Sicily & Sardinia | Sicilia | Caruso & Minini 2006 Terre di Giumara Syrah (Sicilia) | Syrah | Caruso & Minini | ||||
| 997 | Australia | Blended from a patchwork of old vineyards throughout the Barossa, this is typical Barossa Shiraz, with plenty of weight and creamy tannins that support plummy, chocolaty fruit. There's a bit of spice for complexity and a crisp, fresh finish. Drink now–2014. | Patchwork | 88 | 18.0 | South Australia | Barossa | Joe Czerwinski | @JoeCz | Yalumba 2006 Patchwork Shiraz (Barossa) | Shiraz | Yalumba | ||
| 998 | US | Rich in the mouth, this creamy and textural wine mixes fruit flavors of peach, apple and pear in equal proportion. It's a bit heavier than the previous vintage, with less of the floral character, but it offers, instead, a richness that lingers into a satisfying finish. | 88 | 18.0 | Oregon | Dundee Hills | Willamette Valley | Paul Gregutt | @paulgwine | The Four Graces 2007 Pinot Gris (Dundee Hills) | Pinot Gris | The Four Graces |
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