Wellyowo/wine_review · Datasets at Hugging Face

wine_id int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 41 values	description stringlengths 20 764	designation stringlengths 1 95	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 1.1k
120,915	us	barrel-fermented and pungent, with a whiff of glue, this has a simple mix of mint and wax aromas.	Estate	82	20
51,387	us	a beautiful wine that will redefine the way you view lake county. mostly merlot, with a drop of cabernet franc and petit verdot, it's extraordinarily rich and refined in the mouth, a lovely wine to drink now. shows new oak-inspired raspberry, cherry, red currant and indian spice flavors that linger into a long finish.	Grand Vin	94	65
1,070	us	this single vineyard wine is a blend of six separate blocks, each planted to a different clone. it deftly combines savory herb flavors with ripe bing cherry fruit. the tannins are polished, textured and balanced, leading into a long finish that leaves a final impression of composted earth.	Shea Vineyard	94	62
8,969	france	this is an aromatic wine, with smooth tannins that make this ready to drink. with age it will gain complex spicy flavors, with richness and juicy acidity on the finish.	La Négrette de Bouissel	89	19
102,798	france	although this is not a premier cru, this 33-acre vineyard sits right next to some of meursault's finest vines. the wine is mineral, tight and textured— a wine that should age. with touches of oak, spice and intense yellow fruits, it is ripe while still closed at this stage. it certainly needs aging and will be ready from 2019.	Narvaux	91	70
106,499	us	this treads the line between slightly rustic and refined. the tannins are sandpapery, and it has lots of zingy acidity, making the wine feel a little rough. but the core of blackberry fruit is rich and dynamic. probably not an ager, so give it a good decanting, and drink it over the next 2–3 years.	Idyll Times	87	35
107,768	us	a chardonnay with sweet, simple flavors of white sugar and pineapples. tart acidity gives it the taste of a sweet-and-sour sauce for chinese food.	Paragon	81	15
19,795	us	this blends 84% merlot, 11% malbec and 5% petit verdot, the three varieties combining to full-bodied effect. earthy in mushroom and cedar, its texture is leathery, with the palate dotted in tobacco and black pepper, the character savory and full of spice.	Barrel Select	90	35
104,614	argentina	roasted, earthy aromas of herbs and tomato play off red-berry scents. this wine is full in body and feel, with earthy, baked flavors of red plum and red currant. acidity rises up on the finish, which otherwise shows vanilla oak and raw tannins.	Coleccion	85	14
61,180	us	the nose on this creative blend of 52% gewürztraminer, 25% sauvignon blanc and 23% chenin blanc is quite showy with peach, baked orange, apple blossom and honeysuckle notes. but the real star is the palate that is racy with sizzling energy and flavors of cut grass, lemongrass and sour-apple peels.	Trois Fleurs	90	20
30,853	italy	bramble and mixed berries comprise the nose of this youthful chianti, which offers doses of leather, earth, cherry and boysenberry. on the finish, it fans out in an airy sort of way, which means it should be at its best over the next year or so.	Scassino	87	20
48,955	france	this is the second wine of château labégorce. it has much of the elegance of the top wine with firm tannins and generous fruits kept in stylish proportion. black currant and berry fruits lie under the dark, dry exterior. the wine is dense, needing several years' aging. drink from 2018.	Zédé de Labégorce	92	40
110,208	us	a good, ripely extracted cabernet, and while it's a little one-dimensional, it has enough heft to accompany a good steak. shows tannic flavors of blackberries, black currants and dark chocolate. drink now.	Alexander School Reserve	87	40
18,136	spain	this opens with staunch green aromas that shout out bell pepper and herbaceous. but give it air and this cabernet sauvignon-led blend comes around to show spicy baked-berry flavors on a tannic, full-bodied frame. on the finish, it's herbal, stout and round, with leafy flavors to go with dark-fruit notes. drink through 2018.	Carlota	89	35
15,590	austria	riper aspects of mirabelle plum join the aromatic spectrum dominated by bracing citrus zest. grapefruit and lemon echo along the palate and surpass themselves in a tight, bracing and concentrated finish. slender but ultratoned.	Stephanus	92	14
36,328	italy	this opens with aromas of french oak, vanilla, baking spice and steeped plum. the one-dimensional palate shows dried black cherry, sour cranberry and espresso with close-grained but not very persistent tannins that dry out the finish.	Martinenga	87	50
104,825	italy	here's a definite “wow!” wine with soft texture, dense extraction and a generous bouquet of ripe cherry flavors. the blend is sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and merlot and the wine sees 12 months of oak that shapes warm notes of chocolate and spice. it's well aged and well priced.	Messere	92	30
123,872	us	a rare style of california white, this is made from 100% sauvignon blanc, but is not labeled that way. striking smoky, white-pepper aromas and aggressive dried herb flavors jangle with apparent oak character. the combination of sharp acidity and soothing body begins to come together on the finish. it needs time to mellow and may improve after 2015.	Les Pierres Qui Decident	89	65
94,286	us	this blends 62% cabernet sauvignon, 20% cabernet franc and 18% petit verdot. spicy and lean, it was aged in all-new french oak that provides a nice background of structure and strength.	Sun on the Mountain	88	95
46,866	us	once again this vineyard delivers irresistibly bright refined flavors of raspberry and cherry fruit—primary, concentrated and immaculately fresh. there's a touch of mocha from the new barrels, and impressive length. as with all of trisaetum's single vineyard pinots, this is built for cellaring, and should drink best after another couple of years in bottle. drink 2018–2028, perhaps beyond.	Ribbon Ridge Estate	94	49
71,703	france	bone-dry, this blend of negrette, malbec and gamay is rich, packed with strawberry fruits and spice. a touch of vanilla makes the acidity ripe and soft. drink this attractive rosé now.	Rosenc	86	14
89,894	argentina	mossy and inky in smell, this has a firm palate. flavors of berry, herb and chocolate set up a dry finish, with structure and background complexities. spicy and herbal, it has a chilean sort of character.	Reserva	87	18
89,606	us	this 53% malbec marries 47% cabernet sauvignon, combining for a thick, extracted taste of blueberry jam and chocolate. full bodied and hyper-ripe, this bold, big wine needs food.	Pasithea	87	55
69,752	us	intensely colored, this wine is from a replanted estate block just coming into its own. the texture is soft and silky, yet austere. it dances in earthy blueberry and spicy cedar notes, finishing in a powerful pronouncement of oak.	North Block Single Clone	90	85
56,581	italy	a blend of 75% pinot nero and 25% chardonnay, this offers aromas of white spring flowers, citrus zest, walnut and a whiff of exotic spice. the racy palate delivers ripe apple, pastry, hazelnut, vanilla and a note of candied ginger alongside bright acidity and a vibrant mousse.	Metodo Classico	89	35
34,591	italy	you'll find aromas suggesting mature dark-skinned berry, violet, tobacco and an earthy whiff of game on this. the aromas carry over to the full-bodied palate, together with hints of dark spice and dried cherry. chewy tannins provide support.	Trentaquattro	90	50
47,206	us	thick and heavy, with semi-sweet, syrupy flavors of blackberries and oak. not going anywhere, so drink now.	Estate	82	36
7,394	us	one of the best california rosés of the last several years. it's light bodied, crisply acidic, and ultrarefined, with flavors of polished rose, herbal tea, strawberry and spice. so clean and so pure, this is wonderfully dry on the finish.	Rosé of	92	25
70,014	us	here's a softly fruity wine marked by aromas and flavors of grass, melon, grapefruit, tangerine, and fig. it's fairly dry, although it seems like there's a touch of residual sugar-not very much, just enough to round it out. it's a little one-dimensional, but pleasant.	Coastal	85	10
21,580	france	light pink/gold in color, this is an exotic ripe wine with melon and tropical fruit flavors underlined by toast. it is big, rich and mouthfilling.	Cuvée Carolle	87	20
125,450	us	named after the new york city neighborhood where owner jack messina's ancestors first immigrated, this blend of 55% syrah, 27% grenache, 17% mourvèdre and a half-percent each of viognier and roussanne hits the nose with notes of violet, mocha, black cherry, slate and coffee. the tannins are mouthcoating, yet allow tart flavors of cherry and boysenberry to pass through, boosted by smoke and licorice on the edges. drink from 2018.	Hell's Kitchen	93	54
46,717	us	made from three-quarters merlot and one-eighth each cabernet sauvignon and mourvèdre, this new version of the spinner seems to be surfing a wave of spicy berry that's about to smash into a wall of chocolate. but it never crashes, instead it just sails on through a gorgeous midpalate into a lingering finish that features caramel and mocha highlights.	The Spinner	91	30
53,509	france	the onion-skin color is pretty to look at, and even nicer is the complex aroma: earthy and rich, suggesting cherry-chocolate candy, toast and yeast. it really stands out on the palate, where the full-bodied cherry flavors are highlighted by crisp acidity. notable for its balance, finesse and sheer charm.	Diamant Rosé	89	70
17,741	us	this low-production cab defines stonestreet's mountain vineyard, high above the alexander valley. it's very tannic now, with the drying astringency that marks a young wine. given the fruity concentration, it should have no trouble aging for 10–15 years. high elevation fruit yields an amazing combination of cassis, minerals, tannins and acidic freshness. drink 2020 and beyond.	Christopher's	94	100
95,133	austria	a smoky note of flint signals youth, while a pliable, light and fresh body of grapefruit zest and yeasty brings a slender but juicy feel. a slim but impressive package of lively, taut fruit.	Achleiten Smaragd	90	49
31,219	france	with a density of nearly 7,000 vines per acre, and consequent low yields, it is not surprising this is a concentrated, intense wine. it has quintessential herbaceous flavors, rounded out with a creamed apple element and a tight, steely texture. age for 3–4 years.	Haute Densité	93	110
1,055	austria	beyond the spice of this cool-climate wine, the flavors offer red berry fruits, fresh acidity and stalky tannins. it's soft, easy to drink now.	Sandgrube 13 Chremisa	85	24
118,788	france	bready aromas from sur-lie aging are layered with notes of summer desserts—strawberry-rhubarb crumble, peach compote and lemon-meringue pie. a slight sweetness adds to the hedonistic impression. the lingering finish is hunger-inspiring.	Vieilles Vignes	89	21
111,109	italy	aromas of baked earth, vanilla, toasted oak and grilled herb waft out of the glass. the meaty palate has a rustic appeal, offering blackberry, cherry and cured meat, with a smoky note alongside chewy tannins.	Lastricato Riserva	88	25
66,470	france	gigondas is meffre's home turf, and this cuvée is impressive, boasting ample weight, rich tannins and massive extraction. it's dense and dark, combining asphalt, coffee, chocolate and licorice with black cherry preserves. ultimately it leaves one wondering if it isn't trying too hard, but it seems worth putting a few bottles away until 2015 and seeing how they turn out.	Sainte-Catherine	90	27
53,935	us	ripe yet understated notes of white current, golden fig, apricot and graham cracker prove this chardonnay's discernable depth. medium to full bodied, this wine feels luscious, and its toasty flavor and energetic acidity will match grilled arctic char.	Vintage Reserve	88	32
91,285	us	coming from the cool 2011 vintage, this vineyard-designated wine doesn't seem entirely ripe, displaying notes of herbs, cranberry and red fruit. it's screamingly tart with moderate fruit flavors and abundant oak accents that lead to a warm finish.	Northridge	85	32
36,576	us	green gooseberry and freshly-cut grass lend elegant perfume to this ripe, full-bodied sauvignon blanc. it's silky in mouthfeel, with opulent meyer lemon and honeysuckle tones, but balanced with a squeaky-bright acidity that cleanses the mid palate. finishes with a lingering sheen of oyster-shell minerality.	Reminisce	90	22
93,053	italy	vigna delle raunate opens with bold smoke and spice tones upfront that are closely followed by mature fruit and blackberry aromas. delicate touches of vanilla and black spice create beautiful accents along the way.	Vigna delle Raunate	92	50
107,558	portugal	this soft wine is a blend of two local white grapes: síria and fonte cal. intense acidity and a cool-climate feel from the high- altitude vineyards make this crisp, with grapefruit and lemon flavors. drink now.	Beyra Branco	88	12
16,467	bosnia and herzegovina	toasted oak and cedar notes meld into lush, ripe black plums on the nose and palate of this fruit-forward, richly concentrated wine from bosnia and herzegovina. it's a straightforward, accessible wine, but well balanced with smooth tannins and a bright acidity	Vranac	85	13
51,881	france	this powerful, concentrated wine hails from the steep granite slopes of the sommerberg. it is packed with both acidity and structured white fruits and citrus. the wine is textured with great depth of flavor, the acidity streaking right through the wine. it needs aging over at least 5–6 years.	Sommerberg Grand Cru	94	50
116,451	us	while ripe with black fruit and hints of caramel, forest bramble and black pepper, this bordeaux-style blend (with a hefty dose of petit verdot) boasts an elegant structure and clean acidity with just a hint of green on the finish.	IV	86	100
56,828	australia	appropriately restrained and even a bit austere, this is a firm, dusty-textured cabernet. vanilla, tobacco and cherry notes start things off and extend through the long finish. it offers at least a decade of aging potential at a very reasonable price. drink 2020–2030.	Miamup	91	23
9,239	us	this is a vibrant take on the grape, with fresh-pressed boysenberry and wisteria aromas merging with rosemary, fennel and sarsaparilla on the nose. food friendly, it shows more boysenberry, thyme, white pepper, and floral freshness on the palate.	Mesa Del Sol	91	30
57,920	italy	here's a pretty blend of sangiovese (70%), sagrantino and colorino that is noticeable because of the smooth and seamless manner in which these three grapes interact. bold cherry fruit, blackberry and spice make up the bouquet that is followed by a slightly gritty, but firm mouthfeel.	Riserva	89	35
95,124	italy	red rose, woodland berry and ground spice aromas lead the way on this expressive, delightful red. the vibrant palate offers juicy morello cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper framed in zesty acidity and silky, smooth tannins. it's incredibly easy to drink.	Belsito	90	16
33,802	argentina	ripe but subtle aromas of aged balsamic vinegar, blackberry, baked plum and vanilla are alluring and feed into a flush layered palate. spicy black plum and berry flavors are just rustic and toasty enough, while this blend of 85% cabernet sauvignon with cab franc and merlot tastes peppery, deep, a touch hot and on the money. drink from 2018–2026.	Gala 2	93	38
120,970	italy	this opens with aromas of baked plum, toast, grilled herb and a whiff of espresso. the soft, round palate offers up fleshy black cherry, licorice, mocha and a hint of coconut alongside polished tannins. drink sooner rather than later to capture the juicy fruit flavors.	Vigna Casi Riserva	90	43
120,961	us	a blend of cinsault, counoise and grenache, this very pretty salmon-colored wine offers aromas of strawberry, melon, soda water and spice. it drinks dry but the fruit flavors are sweet, with tart acids finishing it off.	Pink Pape Blackrock Vineyard	90	18
10,436	spain	cherry, blackberry and baking-spice aromas are classic for this winery and the rioja region. bright, elegant and just plush enough on the palate, this tastes of plum, spiced berry fruits and mocha. a composed, dry, loamy feeling finish isn't pushy or demanding. drink this easygoer through 2021.	Finca Ygay Reserva	91	26
112,055	argentina	blackberry, oak, spice and chocolate aromas are dealt in equal parts. this feels ripe and fairly plush. flavors of burnt toast, black pepper and charred wood lead secondary fruit notes across the palate and onto the finish.	Reserva	89	20
55,192	italy	this structured white displays enticing aromas of beeswax, spanish broom, acacia and chamomile. the round, structured palate offers mature apricot, juicy nectarine peel, yellow peach and bartlett pear, with firm acidity. savory herb and energizing mineral sensations signal the close.	Riserva del Lupo	92	29
74,612	us	this cuvée offers interesting complexity, with black cherry, wood smoke, cedar shake and a whiff of bacon fat. it's tannic and stiff, a bit hard to unwrap, but far from a simple wine. it will reward your patience, whether you give it extra breathing time, or tuck it away in the cellar for a few years.	Old School Vineyard	90	58
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
51,021	us	tight and youthful, this wine unwinds slowly, in full command of its power and intensity. compost, wild strawberry and a hit of citrus give life to the generous tannin and oak character, while savory black tea and cocoa flavors provide bite.	Coopersmith	92	66
79,704	chile	muddled aromas of seashell and earthy fruit fail to convey quality. this feels sticky and creamy, as if loaded with residual sugar and fake oak. grainy, candied-berry flavors finish flat.	Scandalous	82	10
1,174	argentina	toast and char sit atop the bouquet like a heavy king on his throne, but there's nothing fake or weak about it. the color is dark and the palate is round; flavors of black plum, figs and black olives convey a meaty, true personality amid all the char, chocolate and vanilla. a good wine in the massive category that is value-priced merlot.	Trumpeter	86	12
103,062	germany	char and roasted coffee notes lend a brooding, smoky backdrop to bright red berry and cherry flavors in this full-bodied pinot noir. cranberry acidity bristles the palate, leading a long finish marked by firm but fine tannins. it needs another 3–5 years in the cellar to integrate, but should mature elegantly.	Schwarzer Adler	90	25
85,911	chile	syrah and cabernet are at the heart of this blend, which is perfumed and bold, with olive, crushed earth and minerally aromas. subtle on the palate, with dense but narrow plum and herb flavors. finishes herbal, with good clarity, earth and character. just shy of excellent.	Kuyen	89	30
61,406	chile	this opens with aromas of wild herbs and field greens. this wine is full but flat in feel, with green, minty flavors that overshadow the minimal fruit. the finish is herbal and broad.	Clava Reserve	83	14
121,514	canada	this carries true-to-variety flavors of peppery blackberry fruit, here cloaked in coffee and toast from aging in 40% new french and american oak barrels. the lemony acids contribute to the overall balance and ageworthy structure.	Coyote Bowl Series	90	35
125,446	us	hailing from one of the state's most esteemed vineyard sites, this wine is half cabernet sauvignon and just over a quarter merlot, with the balance petit verdot and cabernet franc. the oak (40% new french) is dialed back, allowing rich, layered notes of plum, herbs, licorice, toast and coffee to rise with a firm scaffolding of slightly dry tannins supporting them. still young, it will be best after 2018.	Ciel du Cheval Vineyard	93	45
34,760	france	a new brand produced by the sparr family, baumann's fruit comes from riquewihr. this easy pinot gris is soft and medium sweet, with attractive hints of spice and minerality. it's a ripe wine, finished with acidity. drink now.	ClassiQ	86	15
121,873	spain	spice and tire rubber aromas shadow hard, dry berry scents. it feels bumpy and scattershot, with a pasty, oaky flavor and fiery acidity. the finish is overly oaky and invasive.	Castell de Raimat	81	10
115,353	israel	this wine is dark garnet to the eye, with a fragrance of raspberry, cherry and mediterranean herbs. there is a pleasing balance of fruit and dried herb notes. smooth tannins prevail, with flavors of black cherry, blueberry, eucalyptus, smoked meat and fresh-cut herbs of thyme and oregano paving the way for a blueberry, oregano and orange rind finish.	Yarden	92	29
115,617	us	a smaller project from the scheid family of wines, this single-vineyard expression offers a sanguine nose of blood, iodine, dirt, crushed violets and a touch of pungent juniper and pine. it's light and lithe on the palate, with pomegranate, cranberry and iron, proving to be a very fresh sipper.	Viento Vineyard Estate Grown	92	34
44,380	france	this wine is superripe and fruit-forward, loaded with black cherry and plum fruit. it might even be a bit warm on the palate, but ends on a supple, silky note. drink now–2020.	Réserve Grand Veneur	87	15
125,628	italy	sirio is a perfect pizza wine especially if that pie has savory toppings like sausage or spicy pepperoni on it. the wine is aged 12 months in large oak casks for extra softness and a subtle touch of wood spice beyond the bright blackberry and sweet cherry fruit.	Sirio	86	16
69,865	france	light and bright, this is a direct and easygoing rosé, with attractive aromas and flavors of red currant, ruby-red grapefruit rind, white melon and peach. the medium-weight palate is lifted by refreshing, citrus-flavored acidity, ending with an orange and strawberry-hull fueled finish.	Tête de Cuvée Grain de Gris	86	10
118,098	italy	tomato vine, cut grass, crushed stone and grapefruit aromas almost leap out of the glass. the crisp savory palate delivers juicy citrus, ripe honeydew melon, alpine herb and a mineral note framed in bright acidity. it has a bright, clean finish.	Winkl	93	35
90,031	italy	attractive floral scents of crushed rose and pressed violet are joined by perfumed berry and a hint of menthol. the elegant, focused palate delivers wild cherry, raspberry, white pepper, clove and chopped herb alongside a firm network of fine-grained tannins. it's still young and tight but loaded with finesse. drink 2019–2031.	Cannubi	93	100
114,984	portugal	a dark, black-fruited wine, with the fruit hanging off the hard tannins. the wine is dark and concentrated, the fruit expressing itself as fragrant black currants. this dry wine is very firm and destined for a serious, long-term future.	Vintage	96	95
30,352	us	this saignée blend of grenache and syrah offers buttered strawberries and cherry juice on the playful and fun nose. there's a touch of effervescence on the lively, acidic palate, with flavors of berry-spiked lemonade and watermelon bubble gum.	Murmur Vineyard	88	24
12,922	us	this is a broad, leafy, late harvest zinfandel, augmented with a splash of brandy. mellow cherry tobacco flavors saturate the palate, smooth and lingering, with a lick of vanilla and butterscotch as they weave through the finish.	Port	91	16
24,985	chile	a jumbled mix of aromas includes notes of rubber, berry fruits, plum, grass, fennel and oak. in the mouth, this is full and blocky. rubbery flavors of plum and berry finish salty, savory and spicy, with unintegrated oak that stands out.	Monster Block	87	30
43,641	germany	wet slate and chalk penetrate through silken layers of honey, fig and dried apricot in this decadent beerenauslese. it's intensely concentrated in fruit, but also racy and taut, finishing with a flair of rose petals and pink grapefruit. stunning now, but structured enough to develop beautifully for decades.	Hochheimer Kirchenstück Beerenauslese	95	323
23,554	chile	opens with hard black cherry aromas and roasted notes, while the palate is robust and not uncomfortable, with herbal cassis and blackberry flavors. warm and slightly buttery on the finish. regular stuff that won't elicit much reaction one way or the other.	Reserva	84	13
106,628	georgia	a rich, earthy mushroom note adds a rustic flair to this dark, ripe, full-bodied red. the palate is a shade sanguine, with hints of game and plum conserve and a ripple of velvety tannins. it's developing beautifully, so drink now–2015.	Satrapezo	87	35
99,814	us	quite a fine sauvignon blanc, racy and delicately structured but rich, with mineral-laden citrus and lemongrass flavors. the acidity is the best part, tart and mouth-watering. this is brutocao's best sauvignon blanc ever.	Feliz Vineyard	89	14
6,480	portugal	this is a soft, bland wine, with light fruit flavors, a creamy texture and a final tang of lemon zest. drink now.	Terra Grande Branco	83	10
53,443	chile	snappy aromas of citrus and lime come with minerality on a bouquet that's pungent but doesn't punch. this feels clean, friendly and well built; flavors of lime, tangerine and mango finish persistent, with no breakdowns. this is what top chilean sb is all about.	Single Vineyard Garuma Vineyard	90	18
129,024	france	this is young, bold and fruity. it has black-cherry fruit that bursts from the glass giving a spicy character to the tannins and juicy acidity. the wine is ripe, full of delicious fruit and likely to be ready to drink from early 2017.	Cuvée Monthieux	88	13
71,814	turkey	deep ruby in the glass, it offers aromas of black cherry and butterscotch. smooth, seamless tannins encase flavors of black cherry, cherry cola, herbes du provence and orange zest. the well-integrated flavors hold on through the smooth finish, which is punctuated by a closing burst of mint.	Prestige	90	40
43,708	italy	this riserva opens with a textured, granular mouthfeel that is packed tight with leather, tobacco, dried berry and cola flavors. the close is fresh and menthol-driven.	Vigna Manapetra Riserva	93	58
98,477	france	firmly structured, this wine will be equally packed with ripe fruit. while the toast and tannin flavors soften, wait for those rich red plum and cherry tastes to come through. balanced and solid, this dense wine should be drunk from 2018.	Les Lièvres	91	61
60,345	us	at the age of more than five years, this cabernet sauvignon-based blend still is tannic and rich in primary fruit flavors. the black cherry, raspberry, mocha and spice flavors taste fresh. yet the wine is throwing some sediment, an indication it's rapidly getting ready to enter its next stage of bottle age. enjoy it now through 2020.	Proprietor's Blend	89	75
127,443	france	an impressive blend from some of the top vineyards in sancerre, this is a rounded, smooth, almost toasty wine. it has flavors of spice as well as green and citrus fruits. full in the mouth and intense, age this for at least two years.	Exception	93	100
21,617	us	the vineyard is source of high-quality fruit, but also intense mountain tannins that require time to melt. under those tannins is dramatically rich black currant and carob fruit flavor, easily big enough to sustain 100% new french oak. by 2009 this 100% cab should begin to soften and sweeten, and it will drink beautifully for at least six more years.	Hillside Reserve	93	108
47,776	us	refreshingly effervescent with a fresh apple and lemon nose, this dry sparkler is a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. the delicate lather is soft and mouthfilling with a clean minerality and pleasant lemon peel finish.	Brut	87	22
94,786	us	this spicy wine from grapes grown above the coastal hamlet of cambria offers expertly integrated aromas of black cardamom, chai spice, root beer, black raspberry and roasted game. there are dense fruits on the palate, nearing boysenberry and blackberry, along with a plum-skin sourness and a black-sage spice	Riven Rock Vineyard	93	46
85,683	portugal	this estate in estremoz—the heart of the alentejo—has made a ripe and full-bodied wine from the bordeaux grape petit verdot. produced in open-top stone fermenters, it's deeply colored, firm with tannins and brightened by ripe blackberry fruit. drink from 2018.	Dona Maria	90	19
103,024	italy	banana, honeydew melon and honeysuckle aromas lead the way while the generous palate doles out pineapple and white peach. a candied nectarine note backs up the fruity flavors, alongside tangy acidity.	Tornante	89	38
83,483	argentina	five grapes led by malbec make up this full-force wine with black cherry, cough syrup, vanilla and cream on the nose. the palate is rich, creamy and heavy, with deep, saturated black fruit and chocolate flavors, while the finish is just as thick, maybe thicker. extremely ripe and saturated, what many would call a “fruit bomb.”	Don Tiburcio	88	15
27,435	france	dry and serious, this firm wine is classic bordeaux. it has weight, a core of tannins and black currant fruitiness that needs time to fully integrate with the dense structure. give this exemplary wine another five years.	Vieilles Vignes	91	25

120,915

us

barrel-fermented and pungent, with a whiff of glue, this has a simple mix of mint and wax aromas.

Estate

82

20

51,387

us

a beautiful wine that will redefine the way you view lake county. mostly merlot, with a drop of cabernet franc and petit verdot, it's extraordinarily rich and refined in the mouth, a lovely wine to drink now. shows new oak-inspired raspberry, cherry, red currant and indian spice flavors that linger into a long finish.

Grand Vin

94

65

1,070

us

this single vineyard wine is a blend of six separate blocks, each planted to a different clone. it deftly combines savory herb flavors with ripe bing cherry fruit. the tannins are polished, textured and balanced, leading into a long finish that leaves a final impression of composted earth.

Shea Vineyard

94

62

8,969

france

this is an aromatic wine, with smooth tannins that make this ready to drink. with age it will gain complex spicy flavors, with richness and juicy acidity on the finish.

La Négrette de Bouissel

89

19

102,798

france

although this is not a premier cru, this 33-acre vineyard sits right next to some of meursault's finest vines. the wine is mineral, tight and textured— a wine that should age. with touches of oak, spice and intense yellow fruits, it is ripe while still closed at this stage. it certainly needs aging and will be ready from 2019.

Narvaux

91

70

106,499

us

this treads the line between slightly rustic and refined. the tannins are sandpapery, and it has lots of zingy acidity, making the wine feel a little rough. but the core of blackberry fruit is rich and dynamic. probably not an ager, so give it a good decanting, and drink it over the next 2–3 years.

Idyll Times

87

35

107,768

us

a chardonnay with sweet, simple flavors of white sugar and pineapples. tart acidity gives it the taste of a sweet-and-sour sauce for chinese food.

Paragon

81

15

19,795

us

this blends 84% merlot, 11% malbec and 5% petit verdot, the three varieties combining to full-bodied effect. earthy in mushroom and cedar, its texture is leathery, with the palate dotted in tobacco and black pepper, the character savory and full of spice.

Barrel Select

90

35

104,614

argentina

roasted, earthy aromas of herbs and tomato play off red-berry scents. this wine is full in body and feel, with earthy, baked flavors of red plum and red currant. acidity rises up on the finish, which otherwise shows vanilla oak and raw tannins.

Coleccion

85

14

61,180

us

the nose on this creative blend of 52% gewürztraminer, 25% sauvignon blanc and 23% chenin blanc is quite showy with peach, baked orange, apple blossom and honeysuckle notes. but the real star is the palate that is racy with sizzling energy and flavors of cut grass, lemongrass and sour-apple peels.

Trois Fleurs

90

20

30,853

italy

bramble and mixed berries comprise the nose of this youthful chianti, which offers doses of leather, earth, cherry and boysenberry. on the finish, it fans out in an airy sort of way, which means it should be at its best over the next year or so.

Scassino

87

20

48,955

france

this is the second wine of château labégorce. it has much of the elegance of the top wine with firm tannins and generous fruits kept in stylish proportion. black currant and berry fruits lie under the dark, dry exterior. the wine is dense, needing several years' aging. drink from 2018.

Zédé de Labégorce

92

40

110,208

us

a good, ripely extracted cabernet, and while it's a little one-dimensional, it has enough heft to accompany a good steak. shows tannic flavors of blackberries, black currants and dark chocolate. drink now.

Alexander School Reserve

87

40

18,136

spain

this opens with staunch green aromas that shout out bell pepper and herbaceous. but give it air and this cabernet sauvignon-led blend comes around to show spicy baked-berry flavors on a tannic, full-bodied frame. on the finish, it's herbal, stout and round, with leafy flavors to go with dark-fruit notes. drink through 2018.

Carlota

89

35

15,590

austria

riper aspects of mirabelle plum join the aromatic spectrum dominated by bracing citrus zest. grapefruit and lemon echo along the palate and surpass themselves in a tight, bracing and concentrated finish. slender but ultratoned.

Stephanus

92

14

36,328

italy

this opens with aromas of french oak, vanilla, baking spice and steeped plum. the one-dimensional palate shows dried black cherry, sour cranberry and espresso with close-grained but not very persistent tannins that dry out the finish.

Martinenga

87

50

104,825

italy

here's a definite “wow!” wine with soft texture, dense extraction and a generous bouquet of ripe cherry flavors. the blend is sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and merlot and the wine sees 12 months of oak that shapes warm notes of chocolate and spice. it's well aged and well priced.

Messere

92

30

123,872

us

a rare style of california white, this is made from 100% sauvignon blanc, but is not labeled that way. striking smoky, white-pepper aromas and aggressive dried herb flavors jangle with apparent oak character. the combination of sharp acidity and soothing body begins to come together on the finish. it needs time to mellow and may improve after 2015.

Les Pierres Qui Decident

89

65

94,286

us

this blends 62% cabernet sauvignon, 20% cabernet franc and 18% petit verdot. spicy and lean, it was aged in all-new french oak that provides a nice background of structure and strength.

Sun on the Mountain

88

95

46,866

us

once again this vineyard delivers irresistibly bright refined flavors of raspberry and cherry fruit—primary, concentrated and immaculately fresh. there's a touch of mocha from the new barrels, and impressive length. as with all of trisaetum's single vineyard pinots, this is built for cellaring, and should drink best after another couple of years in bottle. drink 2018–2028, perhaps beyond.

Ribbon Ridge Estate

94

49

71,703

france

bone-dry, this blend of negrette, malbec and gamay is rich, packed with strawberry fruits and spice. a touch of vanilla makes the acidity ripe and soft. drink this attractive rosé now.

Rosenc

86

14

89,894

argentina

mossy and inky in smell, this has a firm palate. flavors of berry, herb and chocolate set up a dry finish, with structure and background complexities. spicy and herbal, it has a chilean sort of character.

Reserva

87

18

89,606

us

this 53% malbec marries 47% cabernet sauvignon, combining for a thick, extracted taste of blueberry jam and chocolate. full bodied and hyper-ripe, this bold, big wine needs food.

Pasithea

87

55

69,752

us

intensely colored, this wine is from a replanted estate block just coming into its own. the texture is soft and silky, yet austere. it dances in earthy blueberry and spicy cedar notes, finishing in a powerful pronouncement of oak.

North Block Single Clone

90

85

56,581

italy

a blend of 75% pinot nero and 25% chardonnay, this offers aromas of white spring flowers, citrus zest, walnut and a whiff of exotic spice. the racy palate delivers ripe apple, pastry, hazelnut, vanilla and a note of candied ginger alongside bright acidity and a vibrant mousse.

Metodo Classico

89

35

34,591

italy

you'll find aromas suggesting mature dark-skinned berry, violet, tobacco and an earthy whiff of game on this. the aromas carry over to the full-bodied palate, together with hints of dark spice and dried cherry. chewy tannins provide support.

Trentaquattro

90

50

47,206

us

thick and heavy, with semi-sweet, syrupy flavors of blackberries and oak. not going anywhere, so drink now.

Estate

82

36

7,394

us

one of the best california rosés of the last several years. it's light bodied, crisply acidic, and ultrarefined, with flavors of polished rose, herbal tea, strawberry and spice. so clean and so pure, this is wonderfully dry on the finish.

Rosé of

92

25

70,014

us

here's a softly fruity wine marked by aromas and flavors of grass, melon, grapefruit, tangerine, and fig. it's fairly dry, although it seems like there's a touch of residual sugar-not very much, just enough to round it out. it's a little one-dimensional, but pleasant.

Coastal

85

10

21,580

france

light pink/gold in color, this is an exotic ripe wine with melon and tropical fruit flavors underlined by toast. it is big, rich and mouthfilling.

Cuvée Carolle

87

20

125,450

us

named after the new york city neighborhood where owner jack messina's ancestors first immigrated, this blend of 55% syrah, 27% grenache, 17% mourvèdre and a half-percent each of viognier and roussanne hits the nose with notes of violet, mocha, black cherry, slate and coffee. the tannins are mouthcoating, yet allow tart flavors of cherry and boysenberry to pass through, boosted by smoke and licorice on the edges. drink from 2018.

Hell's Kitchen

93

54

46,717

us

made from three-quarters merlot and one-eighth each cabernet sauvignon and mourvèdre, this new version of the spinner seems to be surfing a wave of spicy berry that's about to smash into a wall of chocolate. but it never crashes, instead it just sails on through a gorgeous midpalate into a lingering finish that features caramel and mocha highlights.

The Spinner

91

30

53,509

france

the onion-skin color is pretty to look at, and even nicer is the complex aroma: earthy and rich, suggesting cherry-chocolate candy, toast and yeast. it really stands out on the palate, where the full-bodied cherry flavors are highlighted by crisp acidity. notable for its balance, finesse and sheer charm.

Diamant Rosé

89

70

17,741

us

this low-production cab defines stonestreet's mountain vineyard, high above the alexander valley. it's very tannic now, with the drying astringency that marks a young wine. given the fruity concentration, it should have no trouble aging for 10–15 years. high elevation fruit yields an amazing combination of cassis, minerals, tannins and acidic freshness. drink 2020 and beyond.

Christopher's

94

100

95,133

austria

a smoky note of flint signals youth, while a pliable, light and fresh body of grapefruit zest and yeasty brings a slender but juicy feel. a slim but impressive package of lively, taut fruit.

Achleiten Smaragd

90

49

31,219

france

with a density of nearly 7,000 vines per acre, and consequent low yields, it is not surprising this is a concentrated, intense wine. it has quintessential herbaceous flavors, rounded out with a creamed apple element and a tight, steely texture. age for 3–4 years.

Haute Densité

93

110

1,055

austria

beyond the spice of this cool-climate wine, the flavors offer red berry fruits, fresh acidity and stalky tannins. it's soft, easy to drink now.

Sandgrube 13 Chremisa

85

24

118,788

france

bready aromas from sur-lie aging are layered with notes of summer desserts—strawberry-rhubarb crumble, peach compote and lemon-meringue pie. a slight sweetness adds to the hedonistic impression. the lingering finish is hunger-inspiring.

Vieilles Vignes

89

21

111,109

italy

aromas of baked earth, vanilla, toasted oak and grilled herb waft out of the glass. the meaty palate has a rustic appeal, offering blackberry, cherry and cured meat, with a smoky note alongside chewy tannins.

Lastricato Riserva

88

25

66,470

france

gigondas is meffre's home turf, and this cuvée is impressive, boasting ample weight, rich tannins and massive extraction. it's dense and dark, combining asphalt, coffee, chocolate and licorice with black cherry preserves. ultimately it leaves one wondering if it isn't trying too hard, but it seems worth putting a few bottles away until 2015 and seeing how they turn out.

Sainte-Catherine

90

27

53,935

us

ripe yet understated notes of white current, golden fig, apricot and graham cracker prove this chardonnay's discernable depth. medium to full bodied, this wine feels luscious, and its toasty flavor and energetic acidity will match grilled arctic char.

Vintage Reserve

88

32

91,285

us

coming from the cool 2011 vintage, this vineyard-designated wine doesn't seem entirely ripe, displaying notes of herbs, cranberry and red fruit. it's screamingly tart with moderate fruit flavors and abundant oak accents that lead to a warm finish.

Northridge

85

32

36,576

us

green gooseberry and freshly-cut grass lend elegant perfume to this ripe, full-bodied sauvignon blanc. it's silky in mouthfeel, with opulent meyer lemon and honeysuckle tones, but balanced with a squeaky-bright acidity that cleanses the mid palate. finishes with a lingering sheen of oyster-shell minerality.

Reminisce

90

22

93,053

italy

vigna delle raunate opens with bold smoke and spice tones upfront that are closely followed by mature fruit and blackberry aromas. delicate touches of vanilla and black spice create beautiful accents along the way.

Vigna delle Raunate

92

50

107,558

portugal

this soft wine is a blend of two local white grapes: síria and fonte cal. intense acidity and a cool-climate feel from the high- altitude vineyards make this crisp, with grapefruit and lemon flavors. drink now.

Beyra Branco

88

12

16,467

bosnia and herzegovina

toasted oak and cedar notes meld into lush, ripe black plums on the nose and palate of this fruit-forward, richly concentrated wine from bosnia and herzegovina. it's a straightforward, accessible wine, but well balanced with smooth tannins and a bright acidity

Vranac

85

13

51,881

france

this powerful, concentrated wine hails from the steep granite slopes of the sommerberg. it is packed with both acidity and structured white fruits and citrus. the wine is textured with great depth of flavor, the acidity streaking right through the wine. it needs aging over at least 5–6 years.

Sommerberg Grand Cru

94

50

116,451

us

while ripe with black fruit and hints of caramel, forest bramble and black pepper, this bordeaux-style blend (with a hefty dose of petit verdot) boasts an elegant structure and clean acidity with just a hint of green on the finish.

IV

86

100

56,828

australia

appropriately restrained and even a bit austere, this is a firm, dusty-textured cabernet. vanilla, tobacco and cherry notes start things off and extend through the long finish. it offers at least a decade of aging potential at a very reasonable price. drink 2020–2030.

Miamup

91

23

9,239

us

this is a vibrant take on the grape, with fresh-pressed boysenberry and wisteria aromas merging with rosemary, fennel and sarsaparilla on the nose. food friendly, it shows more boysenberry, thyme, white pepper, and floral freshness on the palate.

Mesa Del Sol

91

30

57,920

italy

here's a pretty blend of sangiovese (70%), sagrantino and colorino that is noticeable because of the smooth and seamless manner in which these three grapes interact. bold cherry fruit, blackberry and spice make up the bouquet that is followed by a slightly gritty, but firm mouthfeel.

Riserva

89

35

95,124

italy

red rose, woodland berry and ground spice aromas lead the way on this expressive, delightful red. the vibrant palate offers juicy morello cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper framed in zesty acidity and silky, smooth tannins. it's incredibly easy to drink.

Belsito

90

16

33,802

argentina

ripe but subtle aromas of aged balsamic vinegar, blackberry, baked plum and vanilla are alluring and feed into a flush layered palate. spicy black plum and berry flavors are just rustic and toasty enough, while this blend of 85% cabernet sauvignon with cab franc and merlot tastes peppery, deep, a touch hot and on the money. drink from 2018–2026.

Gala 2

93

38

120,970

italy

this opens with aromas of baked plum, toast, grilled herb and a whiff of espresso. the soft, round palate offers up fleshy black cherry, licorice, mocha and a hint of coconut alongside polished tannins. drink sooner rather than later to capture the juicy fruit flavors.

Vigna Casi Riserva

90

43

120,961

us

a blend of cinsault, counoise and grenache, this very pretty salmon-colored wine offers aromas of strawberry, melon, soda water and spice. it drinks dry but the fruit flavors are sweet, with tart acids finishing it off.

Pink Pape Blackrock Vineyard

90

18

10,436

spain

cherry, blackberry and baking-spice aromas are classic for this winery and the rioja region. bright, elegant and just plush enough on the palate, this tastes of plum, spiced berry fruits and mocha. a composed, dry, loamy feeling finish isn't pushy or demanding. drink this easygoer through 2021.

Finca Ygay Reserva

91

26

112,055

argentina

blackberry, oak, spice and chocolate aromas are dealt in equal parts. this feels ripe and fairly plush. flavors of burnt toast, black pepper and charred wood lead secondary fruit notes across the palate and onto the finish.

Reserva

89

20

55,192

italy

this structured white displays enticing aromas of beeswax, spanish broom, acacia and chamomile. the round, structured palate offers mature apricot, juicy nectarine peel, yellow peach and bartlett pear, with firm acidity. savory herb and energizing mineral sensations signal the close.

Riserva del Lupo

92

29

74,612

us

this cuvée offers interesting complexity, with black cherry, wood smoke, cedar shake and a whiff of bacon fat. it's tannic and stiff, a bit hard to unwrap, but far from a simple wine. it will reward your patience, whether you give it extra breathing time, or tuck it away in the cellar for a few years.

Old School Vineyard

90

58

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

51,021

us

tight and youthful, this wine unwinds slowly, in full command of its power and intensity. compost, wild strawberry and a hit of citrus give life to the generous tannin and oak character, while savory black tea and cocoa flavors provide bite.

Coopersmith

92

66

79,704

chile

muddled aromas of seashell and earthy fruit fail to convey quality. this feels sticky and creamy, as if loaded with residual sugar and fake oak. grainy, candied-berry flavors finish flat.

Scandalous

82

10

1,174

argentina

toast and char sit atop the bouquet like a heavy king on his throne, but there's nothing fake or weak about it. the color is dark and the palate is round; flavors of black plum, figs and black olives convey a meaty, true personality amid all the char, chocolate and vanilla. a good wine in the massive category that is value-priced merlot.

Trumpeter

86

12

103,062

germany

char and roasted coffee notes lend a brooding, smoky backdrop to bright red berry and cherry flavors in this full-bodied pinot noir. cranberry acidity bristles the palate, leading a long finish marked by firm but fine tannins. it needs another 3–5 years in the cellar to integrate, but should mature elegantly.

Schwarzer Adler

90

25

85,911

chile

syrah and cabernet are at the heart of this blend, which is perfumed and bold, with olive, crushed earth and minerally aromas. subtle on the palate, with dense but narrow plum and herb flavors. finishes herbal, with good clarity, earth and character. just shy of excellent.

Kuyen

89

30

61,406

chile

this opens with aromas of wild herbs and field greens. this wine is full but flat in feel, with green, minty flavors that overshadow the minimal fruit. the finish is herbal and broad.

Clava Reserve

83

14

121,514

canada

this carries true-to-variety flavors of peppery blackberry fruit, here cloaked in coffee and toast from aging in 40% new french and american oak barrels. the lemony acids contribute to the overall balance and ageworthy structure.

Coyote Bowl Series

90

35

125,446

us

hailing from one of the state's most esteemed vineyard sites, this wine is half cabernet sauvignon and just over a quarter merlot, with the balance petit verdot and cabernet franc. the oak (40% new french) is dialed back, allowing rich, layered notes of plum, herbs, licorice, toast and coffee to rise with a firm scaffolding of slightly dry tannins supporting them. still young, it will be best after 2018.

Ciel du Cheval Vineyard

93

45

34,760

france

a new brand produced by the sparr family, baumann's fruit comes from riquewihr. this easy pinot gris is soft and medium sweet, with attractive hints of spice and minerality. it's a ripe wine, finished with acidity. drink now.

ClassiQ

86

15

121,873

spain

spice and tire rubber aromas shadow hard, dry berry scents. it feels bumpy and scattershot, with a pasty, oaky flavor and fiery acidity. the finish is overly oaky and invasive.

Castell de Raimat

81

10

115,353

israel

this wine is dark garnet to the eye, with a fragrance of raspberry, cherry and mediterranean herbs. there is a pleasing balance of fruit and dried herb notes. smooth tannins prevail, with flavors of black cherry, blueberry, eucalyptus, smoked meat and fresh-cut herbs of thyme and oregano paving the way for a blueberry, oregano and orange rind finish.

Yarden

92

29

115,617

us

a smaller project from the scheid family of wines, this single-vineyard expression offers a sanguine nose of blood, iodine, dirt, crushed violets and a touch of pungent juniper and pine. it's light and lithe on the palate, with pomegranate, cranberry and iron, proving to be a very fresh sipper.

Viento Vineyard Estate Grown

92

34

44,380

france

this wine is superripe and fruit-forward, loaded with black cherry and plum fruit. it might even be a bit warm on the palate, but ends on a supple, silky note. drink now–2020.

Réserve Grand Veneur

87

15

125,628

italy

sirio is a perfect pizza wine especially if that pie has savory toppings like sausage or spicy pepperoni on it. the wine is aged 12 months in large oak casks for extra softness and a subtle touch of wood spice beyond the bright blackberry and sweet cherry fruit.

Sirio

86

16

69,865

france

light and bright, this is a direct and easygoing rosé, with attractive aromas and flavors of red currant, ruby-red grapefruit rind, white melon and peach. the medium-weight palate is lifted by refreshing, citrus-flavored acidity, ending with an orange and strawberry-hull fueled finish.

Tête de Cuvée Grain de Gris

86

10

118,098

italy

tomato vine, cut grass, crushed stone and grapefruit aromas almost leap out of the glass. the crisp savory palate delivers juicy citrus, ripe honeydew melon, alpine herb and a mineral note framed in bright acidity. it has a bright, clean finish.

Winkl

93

35

90,031

italy

attractive floral scents of crushed rose and pressed violet are joined by perfumed berry and a hint of menthol. the elegant, focused palate delivers wild cherry, raspberry, white pepper, clove and chopped herb alongside a firm network of fine-grained tannins. it's still young and tight but loaded with finesse. drink 2019–2031.

Cannubi

93

100

114,984

portugal

a dark, black-fruited wine, with the fruit hanging off the hard tannins. the wine is dark and concentrated, the fruit expressing itself as fragrant black currants. this dry wine is very firm and destined for a serious, long-term future.

Vintage

96

95

30,352

us

this saignée blend of grenache and syrah offers buttered strawberries and cherry juice on the playful and fun nose. there's a touch of effervescence on the lively, acidic palate, with flavors of berry-spiked lemonade and watermelon bubble gum.

Murmur Vineyard

88

24

12,922

us

this is a broad, leafy, late harvest zinfandel, augmented with a splash of brandy. mellow cherry tobacco flavors saturate the palate, smooth and lingering, with a lick of vanilla and butterscotch as they weave through the finish.

Port

91

16

24,985

chile

a jumbled mix of aromas includes notes of rubber, berry fruits, plum, grass, fennel and oak. in the mouth, this is full and blocky. rubbery flavors of plum and berry finish salty, savory and spicy, with unintegrated oak that stands out.

Monster Block

87

30

43,641

germany

wet slate and chalk penetrate through silken layers of honey, fig and dried apricot in this decadent beerenauslese. it's intensely concentrated in fruit, but also racy and taut, finishing with a flair of rose petals and pink grapefruit. stunning now, but structured enough to develop beautifully for decades.

Hochheimer Kirchenstück Beerenauslese

95

323

23,554

chile

opens with hard black cherry aromas and roasted notes, while the palate is robust and not uncomfortable, with herbal cassis and blackberry flavors. warm and slightly buttery on the finish. regular stuff that won't elicit much reaction one way or the other.

Reserva

84

13

106,628

georgia

a rich, earthy mushroom note adds a rustic flair to this dark, ripe, full-bodied red. the palate is a shade sanguine, with hints of game and plum conserve and a ripple of velvety tannins. it's developing beautifully, so drink now–2015.

Satrapezo

87

35

99,814

us

quite a fine sauvignon blanc, racy and delicately structured but rich, with mineral-laden citrus and lemongrass flavors. the acidity is the best part, tart and mouth-watering. this is brutocao's best sauvignon blanc ever.

Feliz Vineyard

89

14

6,480

portugal

this is a soft, bland wine, with light fruit flavors, a creamy texture and a final tang of lemon zest. drink now.

Terra Grande Branco

83

10

53,443

chile

snappy aromas of citrus and lime come with minerality on a bouquet that's pungent but doesn't punch. this feels clean, friendly and well built; flavors of lime, tangerine and mango finish persistent, with no breakdowns. this is what top chilean sb is all about.

Single Vineyard Garuma Vineyard

90

18

129,024

france

this is young, bold and fruity. it has black-cherry fruit that bursts from the glass giving a spicy character to the tannins and juicy acidity. the wine is ripe, full of delicious fruit and likely to be ready to drink from early 2017.

Cuvée Monthieux

88

13

71,814

turkey

deep ruby in the glass, it offers aromas of black cherry and butterscotch. smooth, seamless tannins encase flavors of black cherry, cherry cola, herbes du provence and orange zest. the well-integrated flavors hold on through the smooth finish, which is punctuated by a closing burst of mint.

Prestige

90

40

43,708

italy

this riserva opens with a textured, granular mouthfeel that is packed tight with leather, tobacco, dried berry and cola flavors. the close is fresh and menthol-driven.

Vigna Manapetra Riserva

93

58

98,477

france

firmly structured, this wine will be equally packed with ripe fruit. while the toast and tannin flavors soften, wait for those rich red plum and cherry tastes to come through. balanced and solid, this dense wine should be drunk from 2018.

Les Lièvres

91

61

60,345

us

at the age of more than five years, this cabernet sauvignon-based blend still is tannic and rich in primary fruit flavors. the black cherry, raspberry, mocha and spice flavors taste fresh. yet the wine is throwing some sediment, an indication it's rapidly getting ready to enter its next stage of bottle age. enjoy it now through 2020.

Proprietor's Blend

89

75

127,443

france

an impressive blend from some of the top vineyards in sancerre, this is a rounded, smooth, almost toasty wine. it has flavors of spice as well as green and citrus fruits. full in the mouth and intense, age this for at least two years.

Exception

93

100

21,617

us

the vineyard is source of high-quality fruit, but also intense mountain tannins that require time to melt. under those tannins is dramatically rich black currant and carob fruit flavor, easily big enough to sustain 100% new french oak. by 2009 this 100% cab should begin to soften and sweeten, and it will drink beautifully for at least six more years.

Hillside Reserve

93

108

47,776

us

refreshingly effervescent with a fresh apple and lemon nose, this dry sparkler is a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. the delicate lather is soft and mouthfilling with a clean minerality and pleasant lemon peel finish.

Brut

87

22

94,786

us

this spicy wine from grapes grown above the coastal hamlet of cambria offers expertly integrated aromas of black cardamom, chai spice, root beer, black raspberry and roasted game. there are dense fruits on the palate, nearing boysenberry and blackberry, along with a plum-skin sourness and a black-sage spice

Riven Rock Vineyard

93

46

85,683

portugal

this estate in estremoz—the heart of the alentejo—has made a ripe and full-bodied wine from the bordeaux grape petit verdot. produced in open-top stone fermenters, it's deeply colored, firm with tannins and brightened by ripe blackberry fruit. drink from 2018.

Dona Maria

90

19

103,024

italy

banana, honeydew melon and honeysuckle aromas lead the way while the generous palate doles out pineapple and white peach. a candied nectarine note backs up the fruity flavors, alongside tangy acidity.

Tornante

89

38

83,483

argentina

five grapes led by malbec make up this full-force wine with black cherry, cough syrup, vanilla and cream on the nose. the palate is rich, creamy and heavy, with deep, saturated black fruit and chocolate flavors, while the finish is just as thick, maybe thicker. extremely ripe and saturated, what many would call a “fruit bomb.”

Don Tiburcio

88

15

27,435

france

dry and serious, this firm wine is classic bordeaux. it has weight, a core of tannins and black currant fruitiness that needs time to fully integrate with the dense structure. give this exemplary wine another five years.

Vieilles Vignes

91

25