Black plum and cherry aromas pick up an undergrowth hint. This is a succulent, juicy wine with a finish that tastes earthy and feels structured.
Black plum and cherry aromas take second stage to the earthy notes of bramble, spice and crushed iris petal. Medium weight with satiny tannins, this has a spicy black-cherry finish.
Black plum and cut grass aromas lead the nose of this simple, easy-drinking red. The palate offers red cherry fruit, a touch of nutmeg and relaxed tannins.
Black plum and elderberry conspire with smoky cola, shaved chocolate and rustic licorice aromas on the nose of this bottling. The sip starts softly before stiffer tannic structure takes hold, bringing forth flavors of dried plum, reduced soy sauce and a slightly bitter charcoal touch, all lifted by buoyant acidity: very dark without being overly ripe.
Black plum and elderberry jam aromas mix with leather, tobacco, crushed sage and oregano on this blend of 50% Grenache, 38% Syrah and 12% Petite Sirah from the Warner Springs area. The palate packs lots of crushed herbs, graphite and cedar with dried berries, laced together with firm, sticky tannins.
Black plum and star anise show on the hearty nose of this bottling, which plays to the riper side of the grape despite being from a cooler climate. The mouthfeel is thick and the flavors juicy, with tangy cranberry and raspberry mixing with richer plum. The tannins are soft.
Black plum flavors dominate this smoothly ripe wine with its soft tannins and rich texture. It is ready to drink, with its structure already well integrated, the wood just showing as toast and coffee.
Black plum fruits start this wine on a good basis. But the hard tannins and medicinal character are not pleasant. It might improve by 2015.
Black plum juice, black pepper, caramel and smoke mark the nose of this bottling, which is fairly light in color. It's thin in body yet offers familiar black cherry and herbal spice flavors.
Black plum sauce, milk chocolate, pressed blackberry, black currant, hot gingerbread and caramel combine in a very inviting nose on this bottling. It's rounded, ripe and yet racy on the palate, with loads of purple fruit and flowers, a touch of clove and some candied plum. An excellent example of what Petite Sirah can be: juicy, structured and layered.
Black plum skins, green pepper, cassis and coffee provide the core character of this wine, with accents of tobacco and wood adding complexity. The medium-weight mouthfeel is balanced and easygoing with soft tannins and a clean finish.
Black plum, baking spice and cedar aromas lead the way. On the firm medium-bodied palate, notes of mocha and toasted oak underscore blackberry jam while assertive tannins provide support. Drink through 2020.
Black plum, blackberries, lilac and vanilla show on the easy if simple nose of this bottling. There's a load of perfume-like purple flowers on the sip, where a curiously strong acidity also carries cola spice.
Black plum, blue flower, oak, espresso and chocolate aromas waft from the glass of this densely structured wine. The palate delivers blueberry extract, roasted coffee bean, vanilla and spice alonside tightly packed wood tannins that generate an astringent, mouth-drying finish. Give it time to unwind. Drink 2018–2030.
Black plum, boysenberry and fig flavors fill this soft and generous wine. It has a medium-red color, medium body and very fruity aromas. A relaxed, broad texture makes it easy to drink.
Black plum, boysenberry, nutmeg and cinnamon show on the nose of this appellation blend. A ripe boysenberry flavor pops at the tip of the sip, with sagebrush and savory meat flavors arising midpalate. The tannic structure is squeaky and clean.
Black plum, candied blueberry, garden herb and anise aromas show on the nose of this luscious bottling from Matt Villard and Rick Hudson. It doesn't rely on sheer power, instead offering nuanced sage, thyme and oregano flavors against a backfrop of baked red and black cherry fruit. Fennel, smoked meat and vanilla notes play a supporting role.
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.
Black plum, cola and chocolate define this textbook Malbec. The wine has body, heft and lots of fruit, but also some complexity and character. Flavors of black cherry, plum and cassis are layered and fairly boisterous, while the mouthfeel is firm and just slightly tannic. Just right for red meats and pastas.
Black plum, crushed violet and cooking spice aromas lead the nose of this easy-drinking red. The round palate delivers dried cherry, blackberry jam and licorice notes alongside firm tannins. Drink soon.
Black plum, dark berry, fragrant blue flower, coffee and cake spice aromas take shape in the glass. The juicy palate delivers wild cherry, espresso and mocha alongside fine-grained tannins. An anise note signals the close.
Black plum, dark kitchen spice, leather and pressed violet aromas lead the nose on this round, savory wine. On the velvety palate, firm, polished tannins frame mature black cherry, licorice and a hint of chewing tobacco. Drink through 2018.
Black plum, deep strawberry, raw beef, smoke and graphite show on the nose of this bottling by Mike Mooney. Rich and dark flavors of cooked cherry are bolstered by a prominent chaparral-scrub spice, with wild mint, thyme and bay leaf elements, ending on a eucalyptus-oil note.
Black plum, graphite and herbal tomato aromas are solid but subdued. There's weight to this Malbec but not much depth to the palate, while flavors of berry, cassis and tomato run low on complexity.
Black plum, licorice and cool green-herb aromas rest in front of a full-bodied, tannic, chunky palate. Flavors of herbal black fruits come with a salty edge and a meaty underbelly. A long, rolling, deep finish is encouraging and stout. Best from 2018–2024.
Black plum, mulberry and a touch of graphite show on the nose of this bottling. Ripe cranberry and pomegranate juice form a tangy fruit base on the palate, enhanced by oregano, cinnamon and, on the finish, some juniper.
Black plum, mulberry and dark clove spice show on the nose of this blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. On the palate, star anise, marjoram and gingerbread spice notes lend depth to the dark red fruit base.
Black plum, mulberry, clove and lava rock-like minerality show on the ripe and rounded nose of this bottling from a Paso Robles-based winery. The flavors are fairly reserved at this stage, the focus on its firm structure, but tart plum-skin, thyme, marjoram and cardamom touches will emerge with time.
Black plum, prune and vanilla show on the slightly metallic nose of this bottling. There is decent richness to the sip, with gingerbread spice and black-cherry flavors.
Black plum, ripe dark berry, dried herb and menthol aromas lead the nose along with a whiff of leather. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, prune, mocha and orange zest alongside compact tannins and soft acidity. A licorice note signals the finish. It's at its ideal drinking window so enjoy sooner rather than later.
Black plum, roasted coffee bean, toast and dried herb aromas unfold in the glass. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, orange peel, clove and sage while close-grained tannins provide the framework and grip the finish.
Black plum, savory peppercorns and smoke make for a very acceptable nose on this widely available twist-top bottling. The flavors are very juicy and the mouthfeel quite creamy, with slightly sweet flavors of ripe black fruit sure to please the masses.
Black plum, slate, black rocks, red cherry and a touch of sandalwood show on the nose of this red blend that offers decent quality for the price. Pepper and pencil lead combine for a vibrant palate that's grippy in structure and lively in acidity.
Black plum, tilled soil, leather and grilled sage aromas lead the nose on this structured wine. The dense palate delivers blackberry, blueberry, dried date, roasted coffee bean and mocha alongside firm, drying tannins. A licorice note marks the finish.
Black plums and Mission figs stewed with cinnamon, cloves and vanilla make for an intriguing nose on this bottling from a longtime Italian winemaking family. The palate shows cola, black cherry, coffee bean and dark chocolate, though proves quite grippy with a structure that will let down its guard with patience.
Black purple, this older Petite has a deeply perfumed nose of licorice and chocolate and is very drinkable now.
Black raspberry and blackberry fruit approach a black-cherry richness on the nose of this bottling that also shows aromas of slate and roasted meats. The palate tightens up around dried elderberry and cranberry, tangy but deep fruit flavors that are enhanced by crushed juniper and dried pine needles with earthy tones of clay, loam and slate.
Black raspberry and wet black slate are most prevalent on the nose of this wine from one of the appellation's most reliable vineyards, but it also shows an ample amount of black spices, from cardamom to star anise. The palate is also gravelly with earth, enhanced by purple berries, Earl Grey tea and lavender flavors.
Black raspberry, blackberry, lavender and pepper show on the deeply purple nose of this blend of 67% Grenache and 33% Syrah. Dense black fruit shows first on the palate, followed by a zesty explosion of acidity, flowery spices and cola.
Black sage, wispy black cherry, dried violets, star anise and a woody character combine for a wondrous nose on this wine by regional pioneer Dan Lee. It's rich on the palate, with clove and nutmeg adding complexity to the plum, dried cherry and fennel bulb flavors.
Black slate roof, ripe cherry, blackberry pie, leather and tobacco best describe this wine and set the stage for its dark, brooding concentration. The wine is round and harmonious and ends with a bitter note of sour berry.
Black slate, vanilla and red cherries show on the nose of this widely available wine, which is nicely complex for such a large case load. The palate is medium in body but heartily spiced, with dark pomegranate and cherry-pie flavors hanging on a chalky tannic structure.
Black spice, root beer, tar and a touch of smoke are backed by prune, plum and dried currants. You'll also recognize aromas of green olive or caper and this Riserva Barbaresco is very elegant and feminine overall. Don't wait too long to drink this wine, it's at its height now.
Black tar hovers over blueberry and black cherry fruit. The palate reveals ripe, intensely aromatic blueberry notes and firm freshness. Tannins have a smooth grip. What could be more juicy or berry-tastic?
Black tea leaves and sweet spices season the fresh black-cherry and cassis spine of this attractive red blend. A good grip in the mouth lends structure to the fruit-forward palate and gives longevity to the dry finish.
Black tea, charred cherries and tree bark aromas arise off this wine from a cooler part of a warm appellation. The wine is a bit thin and light on the palate once sipped, with pomegranate fruit. Drink at the beach or with lighter fare.
Black, ripe elderberries, with a tart but supple body make this an appetizing, lighter wine that holds an unusual aromatic intensity. There is an intriguing hint of wilderness and a streak of fresh acidity that makes this soft wine an ideal match for lighter foods. Drink this while it's young and vibrant.
Blackberries and cola are the flavors of this smooth, rather sweet Cabernet. It has brisk acidity, as befits a Central Coast red wine, and makes for polished drinking now.
Blackberries and some funk in the nose: earth, leather, even a whiff of banana. Dark chocolate and an interesting citrus element add character to the standard berry fruit in the mouth. It's youthful juice, needing time to flesh itself out; now there's a lot of rambunctious black oak, which makes the wine seem a bit one-dimensional.
Blackberries are the story here, boatloads of rich, ripe, jammy blackberries. There is just a whiff of volatile acidity, then a wonderful mouthful of fruit with some stony earth underneath. Shows a light touch with the oak, good acids and a deft handling of the tannins.
Blackberries, anise, violets, lilacs, plum skin and vanilla show on the nose of this bottling. The palate shows lots of crushed peppercorns, tart elderberry and boysenberry fruit, and then a complex herbal array of tarragon, dried mint and bay leaf.
Blackberries, asphalt, char and black pepper show on the nose of this bottling from a winery in Morgan Hill. It's a little thin on the palate, especially for what can be a thick and dense grape, but the flavors are solid, with dark plum, coffee and pepper.
Blackberries, black cherries and elderberry form a brooding dark-fruit trio on the nose and mouth. The medium-weight palate is fresh, supple and concentrated, without heaviness. A happy, fruity marriage of St. Laurent and Pinot Noir.
Blackberries, violet and black-slate aromas mix with a bit of soy sauce on this blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Mourvèdre and 18% Grenache, grown in what today is known as the San Miguel District of Paso Robles. Juicy flavors of black raspberry and licorice combine for an easy-quaffing palate.
Blackberry-laced chocolate syrup, black cherry extract, freshly tanned leather and sweet tobacco leaf join forces to power a remarkable wine from this winery near San Miguel, where the owning family first planted vines in 1997. The palate shows black olives, leather, tobacco, clove, black cardamom and dried black cherries, all held together by solid tannic grip.
Blackberry-patch aromas mingle with gardenia and fresh thyme on the nose. The palate is tart, with slightly sharp acids streamlined against bramble berry and pepper.
Blackberry and animal aromas precede a rubbery, tannic, full-bodied palate. This rugged, black-colored Malbec pumps out big blackberry flavors in front of a chocolaty but short finish with emerging oak.
Blackberry and balsam wood are the key aromas, but there's a pinch of cumin in there too. The palate is wide, broad and tannic, with leathery, roasted flavors of dark berry and black plum. Finishes savory and a bit salty, with a clacky, hard, tannic residue.
Blackberry and black-currant aromas are fresh and bright, with herbal notes providing accents. The sweet flavors are plump and fruit-forward. This wine doesn't provide a lot of complexity but brings plenty of easy-drinking pleasure.
Blackberry and black cassis meet with deep lilacs on the rich but somewhat single-toned nose of this bottling. The palate is bursting with fresh blackberrry juice, leveled by touches of cedar and pipe tobacco.
Blackberry and black cherry fruit anchor this well-built Cabernet, accented with scents of sandalwood and smoke. The acidity keeps it vibrant and brings good definition throughout.
Blackberry and black cherry fruit is lightly dappled with peppery spices. There's also the slightest suggestion of fresh herb. It's a sturdy, supple wine of modest proportions.
Blackberry and black cherry sauce aromas are given intrigue with tobacco leaf and sharp clove spice on this wine from a vineyard between the Santa Lucia Highlands and the Carmel Valley. Cinnamon stick and allspice shine on the very spicy palate, which is laid across a boysenberry backbone, with flecks of black pepper throughout.
Blackberry and blueberry flavors are ripe on this easy drinking, off-dry wine. It's juicy and rich, but lifted by a spray of crisp red cherry on the finish.
Blackberry and blueberry jam and sweet oak flavors mark this young Syrah. It's dry, tannic and juicy, but a little soft in acidity. Drink it now and over the next few years.
Blackberry and blueberry juice aromas are lifted by vanilla and anise on the nose of this bottling from a Westside Paso producer. The tannins are strong and thick, and then smooth out into blackberry, mocha and vanilla flavors into the finish.
Blackberry and boysenberry aromas are a touch grassy and green in the middle. This is chunky, jammy and fairly concentrated in the mouth, with blackberry and cocoa notes. A loamy, plump finish is friendly and offers plenty of weight and density.
Blackberry and boysenberry flavors so ripe they seem sweet fill out this smooth, full-bodied wine. The texture is soft and not at all tannic, letting the potent fruit flavors flow easily through the finish.
Blackberry and bramble tones are laced with cinnamon and vanilla on this perfumed blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. It's ripe in fruit flavor, but sprightly in body and acidity, giving it a lean refreshing demeanor. Fine tannins and warming vanilla and spice notes linger through a long finish.
Blackberry and cassis aromas are a touch balsamic but mostly clean. This feels solid and hefty, with slightly overripe black-fruit flavors. A low-acid finish results in flatness.
Blackberry and cassis aromas are bold and come with a coating of oak that brings vanilla and sweet plastic into the frame. A crisp, tightly wound palate shows plum and red-currant flavors in front of a snappy finish with oak spice and chocolate hints.
Blackberry and cassis aromas are malty and rich, with a lightly charred note of smoke. A smooth palate shows depth and balance, while this tastes of blackberry, chocolate, barrel spice and toast. On the finish, this is toasty, baked, warm and generous. Drink through 2022.
Blackberry and cassis aromas are ripe and floral like violets. The palate is more tannic than fully built. Berry and plum flavors show tea and light herbal notes, while flavors of coffee, thyme and plum share space on a bright finish.
Blackberry and cassis aromas are robust and typical for Toro. In the mouth, however, this is super tannic and like gravel. Dark berry flavors are well oaked, while the finish tastes of blackberry and chocolate but feels tannic as nails. Drink or hold; this will always be a rough wine.
Blackberry and cassis aromas blend seamlessly with varietal scents of herbs and leaves. This Cab Franc feels crisp yet flush, with laudable structure and vital acidity. Flavors of leafy, spicy berry and plum finish with peppery notes, a jolt of salinity and heft.
Blackberry and cassis aromas come with oak-based notes of pencil eraser and plastic. This blend is mildly sharp and acidic in feel, with sinewy tannins. Blackberry, currant, coconut and vanilla flavors finish solid but don't evolve or improve.
Blackberry and cassis aromas lead to crushed tomato tones. The palate is lazy and without structure, while leafy flavors of wild berry and tomato leaf finish short, herbal and green.
Blackberry and cassis aromas share the bouquet with tougher, more masculine notes of earth, rubber and char. Once it opens on the palate, there's ripe raspberry, plum and a nod to the black side of the fruit spectrum. Finishes with a mild kick of tannins and the essence of coffee and pepper. A solid blend of Cabernet and Merlot from the improving Uco Valley.
Blackberry and cassis aromas show earthy and herbaceous hints, with coconut and vanilla tones coming on late. The acid-driven palate meets oaky flavors of coconut and vanilla, softened by plum and cherry notes on the finish.
Blackberry and charred aromas announce a juicy, tight-framed palate with crispness and modest depth of fruit and texture. Oaky flavors of vanilla and chocolate accent snappy notes of red currant and plum. Raw tannins, citric acidity and related bite make the finish a bit fierce. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry and cherry aromas lead over an herbaceous and earthy tone on the nose. The rock-hard palate boasts astringent tannins which will require years in the bottle to tame. Spicy and herbal black fruit flavors finish dry, with notes of tobacco and spice.
Blackberry and cherry go toe-to-toe with a dark, savory element full of granite, dusty herbs and earth in this elegantly restrained red wine. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot, it offers a more muted expression of black fruit lifted by bright acidity and fine feathery tannins.
Blackberry and cherry jam and caramelized oak flavors characterize this simple Cabernet. The tannins add good, dry structure, but the wine still feels simple and candied.
Blackberry and cherry notes are approachable but slightly muted in this straightforward, medium-bodied red wine. It's a touch herbal and green, with a tart finish marked by fine tannins. Drink now.
Blackberry and cherry notes are fresh and primary in this Merlot-based Bordeaux blend, but shaded with interesting notes of coffee and smoke. The palate is juicy and supple with soft, furry tannins that accentuate a velvety mouthfeel. It's a boldly structured wine, but elegantly framed and long on the finish.
Blackberry and cherry pie, chocolate, anise and caramelized oak flavors mark this Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins are complex, yet silky enough to make the wine drinkable now. This is the type of Cabernet that dazzles for sheer luxury, and will pair well with Cabernet-friendly fare. But it's too soft and direct to age.
Blackberry and chocolate flavors intertwine nicely in this soft, round and bright red from a tiny site in the appellation. Lightly spiced with clove and cedar, it strikes a balance between fruit and tension, making it a food-friendly option that won't overpower in the glass.
Blackberry and clove aromas are elevated by a hint of lavender on the nose. These notes carry through to the palate as well, along with a grape soda flavor. Smooth tannins and ample acidity struggles to match the larger body. A hollow midpalate leads to a tart fruit finish.
Blackberry and cola aromas are cool and collected. The palate has weight and texture to accompany berry, mint, herb and peppery flavors. Turns more herbal and roasted as it unwinds. Pepper and spice lead the finish.
Blackberry and dark plum aromas are solid but not overly rich or oaky. In the mouth, this Tempranillo is juicy, flush and friendly in feel. Blackberry and plum flavors are big and loud, but also clean. Notes of licorice and herbs work their way onto a hard-driving finish.
Blackberry and herbal aromas vie with raw oak and heat on the bouquet of this chunky, jammy, slightly sloppy feeling Monastrell. Dark plum, blackberry and baking spice flavors veer in the direction of clove, and overall this shows itself to be far more oak-based than pure.
Blackberry and leather pouch jump from the glass from this full-bodied wine that stays light on its feet despite the generous ripeness. Cinnamon, black pepper and black licorice round out the flavors, finishing soft and with length.
Blackberry and other fruits are presented clearly on the nose, while the rubbery, bouncy palate seems properly tight and balanced. Sweet, stretched-out flavors of black plum and berry are warm and youthful. Good for basic drinking.
Blackberry and other sweet aromas lead to a soft, mildly oaky palate with sweet, ripe plum and berry flavors. There's juicy acids and reasonable amounts of toast, licorice and spice on the finish. Not sure what differentiates this from Reserve, but the Barrel Select seems better balanced.
Blackberry and plum aromas are friendly and welcoming but not complex or nuanced. A ripe, juicy palate is fresh and balanced, with no excess weight. Plum and mixed-berry flavors finish well, with lasting notes of berry fruit. Drink through 2017.
Blackberry and pressed violet aromas come together along with a whiff of espresso on this medium-bodied red. The easy-drinking palate offers wild cherry, plum and cooking spice accompanied by smooth, polished tannins. Drink through 2018.
Blackberry and pressed violet aromas lead the nose of this bottling, while charred beef, lava rock and black soil scents provide depth. A roasted game flavor dominates the palate, spiced with black pepper and soy sauce and bolstered by a concentrated base of black fruit.
Blackberry and prune aromas show herbal notes and a hint of dried leaf. Medium-full in size and friendly in feel, this has moderate acidity that lends freshness. Gritty, peppery black-fruit flavors finish with an echo of licorice and dark spice. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry and raspberry aromas are spicy but mostly focus on good fruit character. This wine is evenly balanced, with firm tannins and bright acidity. Spicy, chocolaty flavors of black fruits finish with a not-too-forceful dash of brown sugar. Drink through 2024.
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.
Blackberry and raspberry flavors are ripe and juicy yet invigoratingly crisp in this elegant Bordeaux-style blend. Subdued spice and perfumed violet notes enhance bold berry flavors on the midpalate. A well-integrated package with finely textured tannins, it's ready to drink now but should improve through 2025.
Blackberry and ripe black currant flavors are interspersed with acidity and a juicy texture. The wine has a dry, tannic core, with flavors of old wood that spoils the general fruitiness of the wine. Drink now.
Blackberry and ripe elderberry meet with white pepper and thyme on the nose of this bottling by winemaker Tyler Russell. It's soft and syrupy on the sip, with rich blueberry, blackberry and a touch of kirsch made more interesting by a hint of anise and mint on the finish.
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.
Blackberry and rubber aromas are friendly and forward, with spice added in for good measure. Feels full, lush and cushioned, with integrated tannins, good acidity and bright red berry flavors dusted by herbs and spice. Finishes smooth and true. A winning wine from a difficult vintage.
Blackberry and rubbery aromas are also leafy and mulchy. The syrupy mouthfeel is heavy, with baked cassis and prune flavors suggesting overripe fruit. Fig, chocolate and sawdust notes come up on a cloying finish.
Blackberry and slightly green, herbal aromas start it off, and while the flavors maintain that herbal, green-tobacco core, there's enough body, blackberry and oaky coffee and mocha notes to make it a nice wine. Needs more clarity of fruit, cleanliness and purity to reach the peak, but still good as is.
Blackberry and smoky, woody aromas are aggressive at first then more subtle. This feels dry and oaky, while black-fruit flavors taste heavily of clove, mint and peppery spice. Those same flavors along with spiced fruit cake carry the finish.
Blackberry and spice aromas are earthy, leathery and stalky. This is youthful and tannic at this point, while oaky flavors of clove and wood spice ride heavily atop blackberry and dark plum fruit. Oak notes and firm tannins indicate that this will be best from late 2015 through 2018.
Blackberry and vanilla make for a sweet, syrupy bouquet. The fruit on the palate is nice—it's mostly cherry and cassis. The finish is potent and slightly tart. Now it's hard to assess, as it's short on dimensions. Could use some time to integrate its components.
Blackberry aromas along with minerally vitamin notes open this fresh lean angular Cabernet from western Colchagua. Choppy currant and plum flavors are dry and spicy, while this finishes with herbal red-fruit flavors, spice and chocolate notes.
Blackberry aromas are oaky, with accents of mocha, sweet plastic and vanilla. A medium-bodied palate is slightly scratchy, while flavors of herbal plum and berry fruits show sweet, resiny oak and mint on the finish.
Blackberry aromas are outweighed by heavy, creamy, oak-driven scents of chocolate, vanilla and mocha that seem more forced than natural. This is chunky on the palate, with flavors of vanilla and milk chocolate blending with sour plum and berry notes.
Blackberry aromas are touched up by graphite, char and herbal accents. This feels wide, with wall-to-wall tannins and extracted flavors of loam and earthy plum and blackberry. A lead-pencil note is reprised on the finish, which is tannic in feel and loaded with herbal black-fruit character.
Blackberry aromas blend with open-grained oak to create a slightly charred bouquet. A bit acidic and edgy in feel, with a mix of herb, plum and berry flavors. Tight, juicy and a touch short on the finish, with dry, peppery spice notes. Drink now through 2014.
Blackberry aromas have a Port-like character and a smoky undertone. Big extraction leaves a thick, weighty mouthfeel and the essence of Cabernet's sweetness. Some mineral, coffee and meat on the lengthy finish. A good mix of finesse and wildness.
Blackberry aromas with tobacco accents turn slightly barnyardy. Brisk acidity supports the solid, spicy red and black berry fruit here, but the palate feel is rather thin. It's fairly full-scaled, but not particularly graceful, and finishes dry and burnt-toasty, with a briar and tobacco note.
Blackberry candies, purple flowers, black tea and hints of shaved dark chocolate show on the nose of this blend of 65% Syrah, 25% Mourvèdre and 10% Grenache. A zesty acidity kicks off the sip, then a tannic structure emerges, with thoroughly integrated flavors of pressed violet, dense blueberry jelly, tart olallieberry and a burned-caramel edge.
Blackberry cordial leads in this fruit-driven wine, followed by vanilla, mocha, black olive and a bit of dusting polish. The palate is plush and brambly backed by a good grip of fine-grained tannins and a savory olive finish. This will cellar nicely. Drink now–2027.
Blackberry flavors dominate this wine, but there's also good acidity, fragrant spice, and just a hint of wood. The wine, with its finely honed texture has a good future, so drink after 2015.
Blackberry fruit and big-boy tannins combine for a herculean experience, dense and concentrated, with a burliness to the enterprise, Still, minerality lurks behind the beast, adding palatability before a dusty finish.
Blackberry fruit is the focus of this one-dimensional Syrah. Some coffee flavors come into play, presumably from barrel aging, and the tannins are rough and grainy.
Blackberry fruit makes friends with black earth, coffee syrup, dill and dried garden herbs on this nuanced bottling. The palate blends cherry cola with milk chocolate, and boisterous acidity with black rock minerality, finishing on a cream-soda spritz.
Blackberry ice cream, vanilla and licorice meet with fudge and espresso on the immensely rich nose of this blend of 55% Petite Sirah, 26% Zinfandel and 19% Syrah. Blueberry and cassis dominate the palate, which is soft in texture and full of chocolate, cherry cordial and fig flavors.
Blackberry is the flavor frontrunner in this soft, supple Cabernet. It's medium-bodied and toned-down in tannins. Drink now.
Blackberry jam and blueberry cobbler find common ground in this ripe, extracted wine, with a leathery exterior and a taste of dark chocolate. Medium bodied and not terribly high in acidity, it's approachable and enjoyable now.
Blackberry jam and plum cake aromas lead the nose of this simple but well made semisweet sparkling wine. The palate mirrors the nose, while bright acidity lends freshness.
Blackberry jam aromas are followed by fleshy and full dark-fruit flavors, surrounded by a layer of fine grained tannins. It provides a lot of quality and value.
Blackberry jam aromas in this wine are followed by a lean palate and ample tannins. It's tough at this stage, but as it opens, the fruit will come through to give damson jelly flavors. Drink from 2020.
Blackberry jam aromas lead to a fruity wine, soft and juicy. Fresh and rounded, it has balanced acidity and an open, generous character. Drink now.
Blackberry jam, cherry blossom and a touch of baking spice show on the nose of this wine from a Westside Paso property. Nicely tight and bright on the palate, it is structured with fine-grained tannins.It offers blueberries, clove spice and a rocky character throughout the sip, especially into the finish.
Blackberry jam, gravelly mineral and kirsch scents make for a playful yet intense nose in this blend of 73% Syrah and 27% Grenache. Boysenberry, dried purple flower and candied grape flavors show on the palate, framed by chalky tannins. Give it time to reach its full potential.
Blackberry jam, menthol, truffle and leather aromas lead the nose while the concentrated, enveloping palates shows black cherry marinated under spirits, licorice and nutmeg. It's already approachable thanks to the juicy fruit and velvety tannins.
Blackberry jelly meshes with enticing aromas of hot gingerbread on the nose of this bottling by regional pioneer Gary Eberle. Dark chocolate, coffee, black cherry, loam, crushed herbs and graphite all play into the layered palate, held strongly by firm tannins.
Blackberry juice mixes with graphite, cedar and dried herbs on this bottling by Fred Brander and Fabian Bravo, which is more focused on earth than ripe fruit. Bright boysenberry fruit is lifted on the palate by more dried herbs and hints of purple flowers.
Blackberry juice, licorice, grape seed and dried ginger show on the nose of this jammy, spicy blend of 31% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc, 16% Petit Verdot and 9% Malbec. It's rich in dark fruits at first, then tightens on clean and wound-up tannins, with intense pepper and rounded caramel toward the finish.
Blackberry liqueur and char flavors are bolstered by mouth-coating tannins and plush acids. A stout wine, this craves to be paired with a platter of grilled meats.
Blackberry liqueur, strawberry jam, cocoa and spiced toast aromas are offset by a subtle, bitter hint of grapefruit pith. The palate is quite succulent and agile, with its tannins slowly surfacing on the backend, lending traction to the finish.
Blackberry paste and a slightly more tangy red fruit mix with cocoa dust, Middle Eastern spice, leather and black rocks on the nose of this blend of 83% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec. Tangy but ripe plum juice mixes with lifting spearmint and dill herbals on the palate.
Blackberry paste, crushed black rocks and a pinch of baking spice show on the nose of this bottling, which is a project between sommelier Paolo Barbieri and his partner Erin Kempe. The flavors are full of dark red and candied purple fruits, with clove, olive and vanilla touches and a dense tannic structure.
Blackberry pie stars in this soft, grippy estate wine, held in both French and American oak, only a third of it new. Integrated tannins provide an approachability, along with a strong suggestion of leather.
Blackberry syrup, loamy soils and light mint show on the nose of this bottling by self-made vintners Don and Jennifer Arndt. There is a tense and tarry tannic structure to the sip, with deep and brooding flavors of blackened purple fruit most prominent.
Blackberry syrup, slate roof, natural rubber, exotic spice, resin and root beer describe this thickly extracted Taurasi Riserva. The wine offers power, concentration and blockbuster tannins. It would pair well with marinated beef and barbecue sauces. Drink after 2010.
Blackberry syrup, vanilla, mocha and a flash of mint are cut by a rocky edge on the nose of this blend of 58% Tempranillo, 21% Grenache and 21% Malbec. Extremely soft and welcoming tannins meet with solid acidity on the palate, where rich black fruit, hoisin sauce and Chinese five-spice flavors arise.
Blackberry, a hint of raisin, mild char and lemon-peel aromas make for a fine bouquet. This is lively, punchy and chewy, with big tannins. Blackberry, chocolate, loamy earth, toast and peppery flavors finish long, baked, ripe and with the potential for an even better future. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry, anise and spice aromas are followed by rich full-fruit flavors. It's made in a hedonistic style that doesn't hold back.
Blackberry, black cherry and blueberry aromas are cut by complex hints of dark chocolate and nutmeg on this Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend. The tannins are quite firm on the palate, framing black plums, vanilla, caramel, dill and dried mint flavors. Drinking 2018–2030 will allow more black cherry and blueberry character to evolve on the sip.
Blackberry, black cherry and cinnamon aromas start this balanced, smooth wine. The palate follows with mellow flavors of vanilla, cherry and spicebox. An affordable red with versatile appeal.
Blackberry, black cherry, dark baking spice and licorice aromas follow through to the chewy, concentrated palate along with touches of espresso and clove. Firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity provide balance. Drink through 2019.
Blackberry, black cherry, earth and rubbery scents create a blunt, dense bouquet. This is round and full in body, with solid tannins balanced by fleshy, fruity depth. Dark plum, cassis and raspberry flavors linger on an earthy finish with toast and cola notes. Best enjoyed 2017–2022
Blackberry, black currant and toasty oak make for a dark, charred, manly nose. This is full but not heavy, with racy acidity and firm tannins. Blackberry, baked plum and savory flavors finish with notes of prune and leather as well as salted cured meat. Drink through 2022.
Blackberry, black currant, cassis, blueberry, dark chocolate and oak flavors mark this dry, tannic Cabernet. It shows real Oakville character, at a good price. Gets better and better as it breathes in the glass. Drink now–2015.
Blackberry, black pepper, crushed rocks and a touch of herbs show on the nose of this always solid-for-the-price bottling from this crew in southern Paso. There is firm structure on the sip, with soy and peppercorn giving umami touch to the blackberry syrup and purple flower flavors.
Blackberry, black pepper, herb, olive and mint aromas are draped over the nose of this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Syrah and 10% Carmenère. Complete and comfortable on the palate, this has moderately edgy acidity and warm flavors of berry fruits and vanilla. Creamy, lactic leftovers weigh down the finish.
Blackberry, blueberry and creamy vanilla aromas comprise a sweet, chunky, very ripe bouquet. The mouthfeel is full, succulent and bouncy, while flavors of creamy oak, baking spices and black fruits finish with juicy acidity and plenty of wood, chocolate and licorice notes. 150 cases made; drink through 2018.
Blackberry, blueberry and maple aromas announce a rich, ripe wine. There's also toast and char on the nose. In the mouth, this is layered and grabby, with mossy black-fruit flavors that end in a cool, earthy swirl of cola and licorice. This blend of 75% Malbec and 25% Syrah is a stunner and should be consumed now through 2016.
Blackberry, blueberry pie and plum fruit flavors are nicely welded to smooth barrel flavors that bring in coffee, licorice, toasted walnuts and mocha. This is definitely a fruit and barrel wine, thoroughly delicious but without the funk or minerality of Walla Walla Syrahs.
Blackberry, blueberry, rubber and violet aromas show a pinch of cool-vintage green. The palate on this Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenère-Petit Verdot-Syrah blend is tightly wound, with grating tannins. The berry flavors are a touch leafy, while the finish brings red fruit flavors and a touch of carob. Drink through 2018.
Blackberry, boysenberry, smoke and grilled meat flavors fill this rich, well-balanced and medium to full-bodied wine. The aromas are charming and appetizing, making it seem ready to drink now. However, the mouthfeel is very firm with tannins and acidity, signaling that the wine should age well through at least 2020.
Blackberry, brandied cherry and spice aromas lead to a wide palate with tannins that pierce like nails. This tastes a touch foxy and wild, while the finish feels centered and firm. Despite intense, abrasive tannins, this displays depth and complexity. Drink through 2022.
Blackberry, briar and savory herb notes point to the preponderance of Cabernet Franc in this round, but elegantly balanced Bordeaux-style blend. It's rich and ripe on the palate with a frame of velvety tannins that extend long on the finish.
Blackberry, cassis and dusty aromas get this full-bodied Syrah-Monastrell off to a great start. This is staunch and well built, with firm tannins and dark, masculine flavors of blackberry, black currant, pepper and a hint of salt. A gutsy finish is powerful but balanced. This is impressive for the price.
Blackberry, cassis and floral aromas are the lead actors on a musky nose. This ripe Malbec feels thick and syrupy, while rich flavors of blackberry, cassis, chocolate and mocha finish smooth but shy. For such a big wine, this is light on tannic bite. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry, cassis, coffee and charred aromas make for a smoky, healthy, attractive bouquet. This is dense, deep, tannic and a bit rubbery and bouncy in feel. Tea, herb, chocolate and baked blackberry flavors end with cocoa and herbal, earthy notes. Drink this ripe gran reserva through 2023.
Blackberry, cassis, grilled herb and toasted aromas come together in the glass. On the palate, espresso, mint and black pepper add depth to the core of black cherry and blackberry flavors. It finishes on a licorice note.
Blackberry, cassis, herb and spice aromas are complete and ripe. This Cabernet-led blend is focused and direct on the palate, with berry, cassis, chocolate and oaky flavors. A similar tasting finish, with additional chocolate and creamy oak is weighty and pleasing.
Blackberry, cassis, mocha and chocolate aromas are typical of fine, modern Malbec, even if this contains 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. A flush, widespread mouthfeel expands across all corners of the palate, while savory, toasty flavors of blackberry and licorice finish with a reprise of char as well as hickory and coffee notes. Drink this beefy wine through 2022.
Blackberry, cedar and vanilla aromas lead the way on this polished savory red. The medium-bodied juicy palate doles out red plum, wild cherry, licorice and roasted coffee bean framed in fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2022.
Blackberry, cedar, peppercorn and herb aromas come through on the nose of this savory blend of 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dry and tart black plum skin flavor kicks off the palate, followed by potpourri, lavender and pine notes.
Blackberry, charred sage, beef crust and cedar notes introduce this blend of 48% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. It's lively on the palate, with a lingering finish of dried cherries.
Blackberry, cherry and earthy aromas are backed by a secondary wave of oaky char. This is 80% Garnacha and 20% Carignan with raw clamp to the palate created by grabby tannins and tomatoey acidity. Briny raspberry and plum flavors finish with rubbery tannins and related grab. This is a tough wine but one with lots of life and power. Drink through 2019.
Blackberry, cherry and plum notes form this estate wine's fruity core, complemented by an earthy thread of cedar, pencil and tobacco. Dry, firm tannins give it a structure that takes time to unwind, the finish marked by powerful grace and spicy clove.
Blackberry, chopped herb and menthol aromas carry over the racy palate along with sour cherry and licorice. Vibrant acidity and flinty mineral add backup while tightly wound tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2024.
Blackberry, cigar box, vanilla bean and black-licorice aromas are out front, with savory herbs in the background, becoming more prominent over time. The dark-fruit flavors are elegant in style and linger on the smoky finish.
Blackberry, clove and violet aromas make for a full and pleasant bouquet. This young RDD is tight and firm in the mouth, but not overly tannic or hard. Oak, roasted berry and spice flavors settle on a lightly woody, fairly long finish.
Blackberry, clove paste, wet clay and a peppery spice greet the nose in this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Primitivo and 17% Merlot. The palate offers dense elderberries and black currants, but is characterized by a strong earthiness, bolstered by interesting herbal tinges of tomato leaf and dill.
Blackberry, cocoa, pepper and a touch of herbs on the nose give this hearty red some muscle. The flavors of cocoa powder, slate, spicebox and cherry are clean and easy-drinking. Food-friendly, the wine will benefit from decanting and could use some time in the cellar.
Blackberry, cola and herbal aromas form a stout, slightly green nose. This feels stocky and clipped, with oaky weight. Flavors of roasted berry fruits are herbal and oaky, while mint, vanilla, licorice and wood resin flavors drive the finish on this Cabernet-Syrah blend.
Blackberry, currant, herb and cedar flavors abound in this dry, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon. It shows Napa Valley class, and with 6,000 cases produced, it should be relatively easy to find.
Blackberry, dark plum, mineral, char and leather aromas are what you want from a quality wine from Ribera del Duero. A layered, fresh palate houses lightly brined plum, black cherry and leathery flavors. A toasty finish with licorice notes hums along in fine form. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry, dill, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, roasted fennel and the slightest touch of green pepper show on the nose of this well-aged bottling. Similar elements extend to the palate, where the herbal influence gives intrigue to a backdrop of blackberry and elderberry fruit. Strong acidity ensures even more life.
Blackberry, earth and spice aromas prove that a bouquet can be complete with only a few ingredients. This feels rugged and tannic. Flavors of coconut, buttery oak and toast support berries fruit. This is choppy and pounds its way through the finish. Drink through 2021.
Blackberry, espresso and kitchen spice aromas come together in the glass along with a dash of new leather. The firm palate offers raspberry jam, dried black cherry, raisin and a note of bitter dark chocolate alongside fine-grained tannins.
Blackberry, herb, tobacco and a menthol note mark the nose of this full but not heavy red. The fruit is ripe, sweet and unburdened by excess oak. The long, juicy cherry and licorice finish sports no hard tannins. Lovely for drinking now.
Blackberry, leather, clove and dark cooking spice aromas lead the way while the ripe palate extends dense wild cherry, raspberry jam and a dusting of cocoa. It's easy drinking and enjoyable, with round, velvety tannins.
Blackberry, licorice, black pepper, uncrushed cloves and pencil shavings emerge from this wine by veteran Steve Dooley. It's richly layered on the palate, with dried strawberry, fennel, black earth, oregano and chopped dried sage, providing a flavorful offering from his home vineyard.
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.
Blackberry, olive and a touch of juniper rank as herbal but solid. In the mouth, this is round and thick, with good structure. Oak and spice flavors accent blackberry fruit, while the finish deals baked plum, fig and herbal notes.
Blackberry, oregano, asphalt and black gravel show on the nose of this first vintage effort from a new property along Highway 154 in Los Olivos. Dill, fennel, oregano and marjoram contribute to an herbaceous palate, which give nuance to the pressed olallieberry and grape fruits.
Blackberry, plum and savory meat aromas give this red an earthy, visceral appeal. On the palate, bright fruit, acidity and brooding spice strike a delicious balance: think smoke, clove, and leather notes. This is a wine that's elegant and easy to like.
Blackberry, plum and violet aromas make up the core of this young, elegant Malbec's bouquet. At this early stage, the wine is rubbery and tannic, but full of kick. Blackberry, hickory notes and chocolate make for a full, woody flavor profile, while pepper and bitter chocolate flavors close this out with punch. Best from 2017 through 2030.
Blackberry, plum, balsamic and leather aromas give this red blend an indigenous, masculine character. On the palate, a heady blend of tobacco, spice and pomegranate flavors are buoyed by balanced acidity. Pair with grilled meats, hearty soups, or charred dishes.
Blackberry, plum, chocolate and tobacco aromas lead the nose on this structured wine. The palate offers roasted coffee bean, licorice, raisin and black pepper alongside tightly packed tannins that need time to unwind but for now leave an astringent, drying finish. You'll also detect the heat of alcohol on the finish.
Blackberry, prune and pencil eraser aromas are oaky and forced. A heavy, grabby palate with noticeable oak resin delivers chocolaty, oaky berry flavors that taste a bit artificial. In the grand scheme of things, this is more than fair for the price; but prior years were better.
Blackberry, raisin, cola, moss and spice aromas form a potpourri of Malbec excellence. This is super deep and dense stuff; it's tight and ripped with tannins and acids. Flavors of licorice, blackberry, dark plum and oak are layered and serious. The first Mai made by Kaiken, and it's ready now through 2016.
Blackberry, raspberry and asphalt aromas are staunch and gritty. A tight, firm, structured palate is balanced from front to back, while dark berry flavors are woody, dry, toasty and spicy. The big, solid, oaky finish is right on the money. Best from 2016 through 2023.
Blackberry, red berry and tobacco, along with exotic spiced meat and coriander flavors, offer complexity and intrigue in this concentrated treat. Good structure and a light touch of minerality—complete with a wave of the varietal alkaline—give the wine a distinctive character. Pair with grilled meat.
Blackberry, ripe plum, kitchen spice and moist earth aromas lead the nose. The straightforward, easy-drinking, palate offers black cherry, white pepper and a hint of anise alongside lively acidity.
Blackberry, rose petal and espresso combine for a relatively light aromatic profile in this blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot. A cedar flavor dominates the palate, lending structure and depth to blackberry fruit and black pepper spice.
Blackberry, rubber, leather and spice aromas roll out on a good bouquet. In the mouth, this blend of 80% Monastrell with Syrah and Garnacha is ripe, smooth and full in feel, with chocolaty flavors of blackberry, espresso and peppery spice. Finishing notes of coffee and blackened toast are right for the wine.
Blackberry, soy, purple flower and caramel scents show on the nose of this bottling from a cool-climate vineyard. Deep blackberry and black currant fruit shows on the palate, accented with hints of beef char, lavender and thyme.
Blackberry, spice, horseradish and oak aromas filter onto a tight, raw feeling palate. This tastes oaky and lemony up front, with berry flavors forming a solid base. Plum, blueberry and herbal flavors drive a tangy, juicy, high-acid finish. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and  15% Cabernet Franc.
Blackberry, strong leather, black pepper and hints of purple flowers make this fruity wine quite approachable on the nose. There's a mix of fresh blackberries and blackberry jam on the palate with hints of thyme, juniper spice and black pepper adding intrigue to the otherwise fruit-forward sip.
Blackberry, tobacco and balsamic aromas lean slightly towards vinegar, and there's a distinct tangy quality to the palate. Otherwise, the wine is very nice, with plum and blackberry flavors. Tobacco notes reappear on the finish along with toasty oak. Will do best with food.
Blackberry, tobacco and spice flavors give this an appropriate air of sophistication. It should pair with pizza or pasta.
Blackberry, tobacco, dark chocolate, currant and spice flavors mark this dry, tannic blend. It has furry tannins and a briary mouthfeel that make it somewhat rustic. Give it a long decant before drinking now.
Blackberry, tobacco, dried purple flowers and bloody meats greet the nose on this solid wine from pioneering winegrower Louis Lucas and his retired judge partner, Royce Lewellen. The palate shows black cherries and plums, with complexity added by tobacco and pepper spice. The flavors come in and go out quickly, proving clean and fresh.
Blackberry, underbrush and cooking spice aromas take shape in the glass. The savory juicy palate delivers black cherry, raspberry jam, new leather and a touch of white pepper while polished tannins provide support. Enjoy through 2022.
Blackberry, underbrush, mocha and baking spice aromas lead the nose on this hearty wine. The dense palate offers mature black plum, dill, clove and hints of black pepper alongside bracing tannins.
Blackberry, vanilla and minerally aromas give this solidity on the nose. A high-acid palate is a bit shrill, which amplifies tangy red raspberry and plum flavors. On the finish, this rides high and fast on a lasting beam of acidity.
Blackberry, vanilla, a hint of chemical and generic darkness drive the nose on this muscular, black-tinted blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Malbec and 9% Syrah. The palate is grabby and fiercely tannic, while blackberry, herb and molasses flavors finish in heady, tannic, warm fashion.
Blackberry, violet and ash aromas rise toward a light vanilla and fudge profile on the nose of this bottling. The tannins are prominent on the tip of the sip, followed by raging acidity. Next juicy flavors of black fruit pleasingly commence, accented by purple flowers, white pepper and cocoa powder.
Blackberry, violet and leather aromas rise from the glass in this firm Nero d'Avola. Mature black cherry, mocha, licorice and tobacco flavors are framed by fine-grained tannins on the palate. Enjoy through 2021.
Blackberry, violets, gingerbread, cola and cedar show on the great nose of this blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah from the Fallbrook area north of San Diego. Complex flavors of incense and juniper spice up the backbone of blueberry and black plum, with a beef char component adding to the savory side.
Blackened and charred on the nose, there are also blueberry, herb and earth notes to get this balanced yet huge Malbec going. Blackberry, black plum and pie crust flavors finish cedary, with pastry notes and lasting black fruit. If you want power but also elegance and purity from your red wine, this is it. Drink through 2022.
Blackened spice aromas are affixed to blackberry and herbal scents on this full-bodied, saturated Maipo Syrah. In the mouth, this is big in every way, with bolstering acidity. Flavors of black plum, boysenberry and tomato bring spice and herbal notes into play, while the finish is juicy but not overly long, with notes of herbs, spice and oaky vanilla. Drink through 2020.
Blacker than night, this blend of 79% Petite Sirah and 21% Petit Verdot grown in the Clarksburg and Lodi appellations, is fragrant in blackberry and plum with just a hint of cassis. Juicy and measured in power, it's made to be enjoyed in its youth and will make a good companion to steak.
BlackJack is sourced from the oldest block in the vineyard, planted in 1965 by original owner Charles Coury. This clone, rumored to have arrived from France in a suitcase, is named for him. This new release, still young and integrating the French oak (14 months, 30% new), offers black-cherry fruit with barrel toast and coffee flavors. Drink now through 2028.
BlackJack is sourced from the oldest block in the vineyard, planted in 1965. In this warm, ripe vintage it shows lovely blackberry and black cherry fruit, fully ripened and wreathed in streaks of smoke, ground coffee and dark chocolate.
Blades of spearmint and cardamom are prominent on the nose of this wine, followed by a palate rich in pine and black cherry. Lithe with a dense ripeness, the finish is prickly in Asian spice.
Blakeslee brings a wine with pinpoint aromas of beet root, ripe strawberries and accents of Dr Pepper and clove. Young and tart, it remains compact but shows an elegant profile, with the promise of further development. Drink now through 2030.
Blanc de Noirs, white Champagne only from red grapes, produces wines with some weight, as here. It makes for a rich, full-blooded Champagne, packed with red fruits while also cut through with intense acidity. The fruitiness gains shape from a zesty texture.
Blanchot is at the southeastern end of the great Grand Cru slope that dominates the village of Chablis. Perfumed, elegant and with plenty of aging potential, this smoothly textured wine is shot through with tangy spice and zest. It is very rich, full of fruit and acidity that cuts through the texture and structure. Drink from 2019.
Bland and almondy on the bouquet, with an oily accent. Feels lightly spritzy but beyond that it's simply wet and acidic. Tastes lemony, sharp and bland, with a lasting citric finish.
Bland and chunky, with aromas of talcum powder and apple. The palate feel is a mix of spritz and heft, and the flavors of melon and peach are pithy and lean toward bitter. Dusty and heavy on the finish, an indication that it won't last long and has already seen better days.
Bland and oily on the nose, with a mushy palate that's pickled and isn't bringing much to the table. The wine is lemony and green, with a tangle of briney citrus flavors and low acidity. Proves that no oak does not mean no faults.
Bland and soft, this has light and gently tangy fruit with apple and lime flavors. The aftertaste is fresh. Drink now.
Bland apple and citrus aromas are oaky, with a note of popcorn. This feels plump and short on core acidity. Melon, applesauce and oak-resin flavors finish flat and with a flavor note of fresh butter.
Bland aromas suggest applesauce. This varietal Xarello feels plump but flat. Candied, generic white-fruit flavors are nonspecific, while this offers up citrus notes and pyrazines on the finish.
Bland berry aromas precede a pasty feeling, cloying palate with lactic, creamy flavors of oak and generic berry fruits. This is drying on the finish.
Bland citrus and a yeasty note seem out of character for a normally very aromatic varietal. This wine is light, supersimple and drinks like water.
Bland peach and melon aromas come in front of a flabby, creamy palate. Basic melon and papaya flavors are limited, with a slight bitterness lingering on a soft, fleshy finish.
Bland white-fruit aromas are a bit oily and gritty. This has a watery feel and mildly bitter flavors of white grapefruit, the skin included
Bland, candied aromas are modest on the nose. Heavy and borderline cloying, this tastes of sugary cherry and peach.
Bland, fleshy aromas of corn and apple cider are unconvincing but not overtly negative. This feels plump and heavy, like fruit punch. Flavors of cantaloupe and citrus fruits finish yeasty, with notes of corn and white bread.
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.
Bland, midland aromas of dusty apple land on vegetal after this airs out. A flat, no-spine palate and green flavors of tropical fruits and vegetables end with green-herb notes of thyme and tarragon.
Bland, oaky aromas register as resiny. This has a heavy, syrupy mouthfeel. Flavors of canned pineapple and peach finish heavy.
Bland, pithy citrus aromas come with notes of saline solution and pool water. This is 85% Viognier and 15% Chardonnay, and the body is plump but vague. Flavors of papaya and pickle juice finish green, briny and melony.
Bland, sweet aromas are not persuasive. This feels cloying and sticky due to a lot of sugar and not much acidity. Soapy, sweet flavors finish with bitter notes.
Blangé is a supremely clean and pristine white wine to drink as an aperitivo or with fresh salads or seafood. There are bright fruit notes here of peach, pear and citrus but there's also a very attractive mineral tone that holds it all together. The wine is fresh, crisp and tonic throughout.
Blangé is something of an icon white wine that offers clean freshness and simplicity from a producer who brings us some of the most complex and sophisticated red wines on the planet. Here, however, the emphasis is on fun, good cheer and easy drinking.
Blanketed with heavy, minty, candied oak, this Malbec-led blend is meaty, sulfuric, pasty and gaseous on the nose. Plump, oaky and sticky on the palate, with vanilla and candied blueberry and black-plum flavors, this is more fat and oaky than structured and defined.
BlanQ advertises itself as the perfect aperitivo, or cocktail wine, and this billing is right on the money. The bouquet is redolent of summer flowers, melon and peach and there's a nice creaminess here, provoked in part by the Sicilian sunshine.
Blason's well-priced Sauvignon is streamlined and lean in the mouth but very pleasantly aromatic on the nose. You'll get shadings of stone fruit, kiwi and grapefruit and enough citrus zest on the close to cleanse the palate.
Blatant aromas of popcorn don't allow for much fruit expression on the nose. This is heavy and lacking in vitality. Flavors of toast, burnt wood, barrel resin and tropical fruits finish soft.
Blatant green aromas of bell pepper and thyme are the dominant aromas. A raw, tannic, edgy mouthfeel and herbal, green flavors are patently Chilean and compounded by this cool vintage. Mint and leftover green flavors take up space on a bullish, tannic finish.
Blaufränkisch's characteristic briar and blackberry tones shine brightly in this rather substantial rosé. Demure whispers of cherry blossom and fresh herb on the nose meld into smoky black fruit and bramble tones on the palate. It's refreshingly crisp but finishes with persistence.
Blaufränkisch dominates this blend with Merlot and Zweigelt. This flagship wine from the Igler winery is powered by its perfumed fruit, cherry and red berry flavors, ripe and juicy at the same time. There is no question of the ageability of this concentrated, complex wine.
Blaufränkisch, also known as Lemberger, has found a happy home in the Finger Lakes, and this example from winemaker Nancy Irelan is striking. Tart Morello cherry is accented by cool swathes of fresh herbs and a touch of smoked nuts. It's concentrated and robust, yet elegantly composed. Soft tannins trace a moderately long finish.
Blended almost equally with Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, and aged in French oak, this white Bordeaux-style wine has plenty to like. It's ripe in Meyer lemons, limes, tropical fruits and peaches, brightened with crisp acidity. Finishes a little lush and ripe.
Blended by Jean-René Matignon, technical director of Château Pichon Baron, this is a smooth, ripe wine with balanced wood and spice flavors. They give weight to berry fruits, rich plums and fragrant acidity at the end. Drink now.
Blended from 70% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 12% Grenache, this concentrated refresher offers light, crisp waves of vanilla-cherry, grapefruit and orange. It will remain restrained in the glass if not revelatory in ripe fruit.
Blended from 73% Syrah, 23% Barbera and 4% Petit Verdot, this easy-drinking red also has a sophisticated, grown-up undertone, with aromas of blackberry, juniper and Mediterranean herbs. Flavors of cherry, pomegranate, mint, mocha, butterscotch and oregano are wrapped in a layer of supple tannins, culminating in a radiant finish.
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.
Blended from a range of vineyards, this tasty, toasty wine cloaks its raspberry fruit in chocolate malt-like flavor. Its components are clearly defined, fresh and appealing, and it showcases the sophisticated house style in a more widely-distributed, less expensive offering.
Blended from all five Bordeaux varieties, this wine has fine, strong flavors of blackberries, black currants and oak, and is dry. The texture, though, is a bit edgy, with jagged tannins and bitter hints of raisins and mint. Drink now.
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.
Blended from all five classic Bordeaux varieties, based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine suffered from the cold vintage. The wine is tannic and acidic, and the cherry and currant flavors are modest. The winery did its best to install elegance, and succeeded, but it's a wine to air and drink now.
Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and aged for two years in French oak, this ripe, juicy wine is filled with flavor. Blackberries, cherries, currants, licorice, cola and sweet toast fill the mouth. The tannins are substantial, but nothing that barbecue can't deal with.
Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and Syrah, this is a complex wine. Very dry and marked by young, aggressive tannins, it strikes you as dramatic, offering waves of fruit, mineral, spice and oak flavors that carry onto the long, sweet finish. With its tannins, give it until 2015.
Blended from eight different vineyards across the Columbia Valley, this wine displays aromatic nuances of toast and spice along with pear and peach. The restrained, medium-bodied flavors offer a mixture of citrus and stone fruit, with citrus winning out on the warm finish.
Blended from eight separate vineyards, this appellation wine doesn't hold back on quality. It offers a seamless, integrated foundation of juicy cherry, cranberry and orange flavors, dusted with cardamom spice.
Blended from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, this Champagne is rounded, with a healthy dose of acidity and plenty of textured minerality. Its creamy mousse lends a smooth character to balanced that texture. Drink this refreshing wine now.
Blended from grapes from a range of different soils, this open, generous wine has richness and a structure that comes from the ripe apple and gooseberry fruits. The wine is textured and deserves to age. Drink from 2017.
Blended from Grenache and Syrah, this wine is rich in blackberries and cherries, with a smoky, oaky note. Although it's dry, it has a glyceriney sweetness from high alcohol.
Blended from Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne, this is a fine wine for drinking now. It's dry and acidic and even a little tannic, with subtle apricot, tobacco and orange rind flavors.
Blended from Grenache, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine has smoky charred-wood aromas, and tastes dry and powerful, with very firm tannins. It's lean in terms of fruit flavor, but it has a great grippy texture to pair well with big proteins.
Blended from Marsanne and Viognier in equal proportions, this wine is marked by ripe, opulent mango, peach, orange, vanilla and honey flavors. It feels sweet as you taste it, but the finish is dry.
Blended from Mendocino, Clarksburg (Delta) and Pope Valley fruit, this easy-drinking Cab is very ripe in blackberries and cherries, but also shows a good structure of tannins and acids. The alcohol is refreshingly low. A good price for a wine so satisfying.
Blended from Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine offers immediately luscious flavors of cherries, blueberries, currants, mocha and new oak. The tannins are considerable, and there's lots of acidity, but the wine is so ripe it's irresistible now with a great steak.
Blended from Muns Vineyard near the mountaintop and Wiedemen Ranch near the base of the appellation, this bottling offers cola, black plum, Concord grape and dried rose petal scents on the complex and elegant nose. The flavors are layered and woven on the palate, evoking elderberry, charcoal and purple flower touches.
Blended from Petite Sirah, Syrah and Barbera, this is a hearty red wine that's tannic and jammy, with a honeyed finish. It's fine with burgers.
Blended from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this sparkler is a little rough in texture, with candied orange, lemon and lime flavors. But it has good bubbles and a clean, elegant finish.
Blended from Red Willow, Marcoux and Oldfield vineyards, this 100% Syrah offers aromas of green olives, brown stems, dried herbs and raspberries. The palate has densely rich yet exceptionally well balanced fruit and savory flavors that are creamy in feel. It's flat-out stunning, winning on grace and elegance rather than sheer power alone.
Blended from selected vineyards across the Sonoma Coast near Carneros, including the producer's own estate, this wine is made to be approachable and ready to go. It was aged in neutral oak casks, stainless steel and some larger neutral French oak. Herb and mint stand out against a backdrop of rustic black cherry.
Blended from several amazing vineyard sites, including Ritchie and Hawk Hill, this Chardonnay from Old Wente clones has spent time aging in a modest 10% new oak. It shines in exotic florals and a creamy mouthfeel followed by a dry, bright finish of fresh-squeezed grapefruit and tangerine. This is one to enjoy entirely on its own or with a myriad of appetizers.
Blended from several Central Otago subregions, this is a supple, immediately drinkable wine. Oak spice and vanilla notes mark the nose, while the midpalate fills in with crisp red fruit reminiscent of cranberries. It's medium bodied, with a silky texture that lingers on the finish. Drink now–2022.
Blended from several inland sites, this is a good value in spice-driven Shiraz. Cinnamon, clove and vanilla lead the way, backed by strawberry and raspberry fruit. The finish is long, tart and slightly dusty, marked by just a hint of maple syrup. Drink now–2018.
Blended from several of Happy Canyon's best vineyards, this Sauvignon Blanc expresses the appellation's essence. It's rich and fruity in citrus and tropical fruits, with a honeyed richness and brisk acidity.
Blended from several popular grape varieties, this wine tastes a tad tired and oxidized. The citrus and tropical fruit flavors are beginning to turn dried out and sherried. Drink up.
Blended from Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, this wine is soft and fruity. With ripe blackberry and cherry pie, mocha and licorice flavors, it's easy to drink now.
Blended from Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Counoise, it's a little rustic but a bit fancy, with black cherry, leather, pepper and sandalwood flavors. Drink up.
Blended from Syrah, Mourvèdre and the two Cabernets, Sauvignon and Franc, this wine feels bitter and acidic in the mouth. It's very tannic and overripe, with flavors of prunes.
Blended from two-thirds Zinfandel and one-third Sangiovese, this red is rustic in smoky fruit, soft tannin, raisiny-plum compote and black olive. Moderate in acidity, it presents as fairly light bodied.
Blended from Umpqua Valley and Eola Hills grapes, this is forward and fruit-driven, with a pleasant mix of apple and pear. Along with the fruit comes a base of minerality and an unusual streak of spearmint.
Blended from undisclosed grape varieties, this wine offers a myriad of citrus fruit, peach, vanilla and honey flavors.
Blended from various vineyards around the valley, this is a pretty, polished Cabernet for drinking now. Dry and softly tannic, it has lush, appealing black currant, black cherry jam, herb tea and smoky cedar flavors. It's fancy and a good value.
Blended from Verdelho, Viognier, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, it has tropical fruit, peach and apple flavors balanced with citrusy acidity.
Blended from Williamson, Hells Canyon and Bitner vineyards, this is a light, airy Syrah, with notes of cranberries and orange rind. There's intrigue, but the wine comes off as a bit muddled.
Blended from Yarra Valley and King Valley fruit, this light-bodied Pinot Noir is silky in texture, with a lingering finish. Modest red fruit combines with earthier notes of parsnip. Drink now.
Blended with (9%) Syrah, (6%) Mourvèdre, and (3%) Malbec, this is a unique wine with elegant notes of toasted oak, black pepper and citrus with a slight soapy mouthfeel.
Blended with 10% Alicante Bouschet and aged for 20 months in French oak, this wine shows bright baked strawberry fruit that becomes brooding in the glass, layered with black licorice and peppered leather. Densely built, it finishes seductively smooth.
Blended with 10% Barbera and aged in a mixture of French and American oak (45% new), it brings notes of garden herbs, vanilla, jammy red fruit and chocolate. The feel is pillowy soft with tart, cranberry-like acidity brightening it up.
Blended with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, this medium-weight effort carries scents of tomato leaf and Mediterranean herbs. Those highlights continue into the palate, with pomegranate fruit and a dry pleasant lightly herbal character.
Blended with 10% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% Carignan, this wine displays aromas of earth, citrus peel and fresh tobacco that lead to soft, vibrant cherry flavors with light cocoa accents. It's a very pretty interpretation of the variety, with fine-grained tannins backing it up.
Blended with 10% Malbec, this has notes of Maraschino cherry, red vines, and Band-Aid. The tannins are dry and gruff; the concentration is wanting.
Blended with 10% Merlot, this wine sources grapes both from its famous estate, as well as from nearby Pickberry and Murray vineyards. It delights in luxuriously bright acidity and a jammy explosion of blackberry, chocolate, clove and tobacco, the texture roundly approachable.
Blended with 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Grenache, with the fruit coming from StoneTree and Stillwater Creek vineyards, this inaugural release offers brambly fruit, smoke, chocolate and peppery spices. It's full of rich, layered but still supple blue and black fruit flavors that linger on the finish, showing a deft mixture of power and restraint supported by a light grip of tannins.
Blended with 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Viognier, this is an impressive offering with notes of smoke, vanilla, spice, and smoked meat. It's light in style, silky soft in feel without an ounce of extra alcoholic fat to weigh it down.
Blended with 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec, this sturdily built, medium-bodied wine shows a distinct green, herbal quality that's strong and persistent on the nose. Pencil shaving and sage elements contribute further intrigue and complexity.
Blended with 10% Petite Sirah, this wine has a stewed quality that makes it seem overdone, with only the slightest suggestion of fruit and spice.
Blended with 10% Syrah, this is a voluptuous, rich wine, dry and full-bodied. It has blackberry, blueberry, chocolate, bacon and sweet oak flavors. Clearly the winery's best, albeit most expensive Cabernet ever, it's gorgeous to drink now.
Blended with 10% Viognier, this wine brings notes of flowers and peach while showing little oak influence. A touch of residual sugar sweetens the finish.
Blended with 11% Roussanne, this high-toned effort mixes Meyer lemon and grapefruit with broader fruit flavors of pear and peach. It's got alcohol listed at 14.6%—not unusual for Viognier, but it does bring on some heat in the finish.
Blended with 11% Sémillon, this wine brings lightly styled aromas of citrus, herb and spice, along with barrel spice and whiffs of tropical fruit. Kiwi and citrus flavors fill out the palate, which shows a sense of sophistication.
Blended with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Syrah, this medium-bodied, soft and juicy red offers notions of berry pie and dusty leather, as backbeats of chocolate and blackberry play on the palate. With an intensely lengthy finish marked by clove this wine is memorably inviting.
Blended with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, this Merlot is floral in aroma but lacking in fruit on the palate. A bitter herbal character develops toward the finish.
Blended with 12% Grenache and 8% Roussanne, this direct and appealing wine suggests violets, raspberries and plum, with a vanilla top note (21% new American oak). The coffee and blue fruit flavors are rich and full, with vanilla notes lingering on the finish. It's a complete knockout for this price.
Blended with 12% Grenache, aromas of blackberry, caper, fresh herb, cranberry, mineral and spice are followed by full-bodied, lush black-fruit flavors, with white pepper and raw meat notes that persist on the finish. It flat out impresses, bringing a compelling sense of balance.
Blended with 12% Petite Sirah, this is a hearty, ripe and stewy wine, baked in plum and blackberry. A puckering girth of tannin unwraps itself in the glass as it goes. Cinnamon and black pepper play on the finish, along with a hint of dried herb.
Blended with 12% Sauvignon Blanc and coming from a mixture of Les Collines, Goff and Seven Hills vineyards, this wine brings aromas of lees and fig that are followed by lightly creamy well-balanced fruit flavors. It brings an elegant styling.
Blended with 13% Cabernet Franc and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, the aromas offer notes of herb, cherry and spice. The palate shows a very pretty, elegant styling that carries through the finish. It shows a touch of greenness and finishes a bit warm.
Blended with 13% Petite Sirah, this wine offers smoky leather and brambly black and red berry around soft, dusty tannins and plenty of structure. Rich and concentrated, it finishes in a blaze of dark chocolate and black pepper.
Blended with 13% Syrah, this wine opens with notes of cassis, smoke, sweet herb, vanilla and tar. The black-fruit flavors are full bodied but still retain a sense of vibrancy and deftness. The finish stretches out and the tannins provide some chew.
Blended with 14% Petit Verdot, this is a thickly concentrated and ripe wine, generous in bacon meat, tobacco, mocha and blackberry pie. Creamy in texture, it is a robust version of the variety.
Blended with 14% Petite Sirah, this old-vine powerhouse is juicy and sultry, with a hint of smokiness. Leather and bark add to the savory picture, while the tannin profile is decidedly soft and smooth.
Blended with 15% Barbera, this is an aromatically intriguing wine with notes of rose water, sour cherry, and dried flowers. It's tart with brawny, firm tannins and cranberry-like acidity. Serve it at the dinner table to see it at its best.
Blended with 15% from the Mornington Peninsula, this is a medium-bodied, supple Shiraz with enough crisp acidity for balance. The aromas are dark and loamy, but the palate surprises with red raspberries and darker, earthier, meatier undercurrents. Drink 2010–2018.
Blended with 15% Merlot and aged in both French and American oak, this wine shows generous eucalyptus and mint notes. The smoothly textured, rounded palate is marked by black cherry and woody perfume.
Blended with 15% Petit Verdot, this wine is big and brooding in tannin and charred oak, with a sizable presence on the palate. It dabbles in ripe, full-bodied black cherry, plum and tar.
Blended with 15% Riesling and fermented and aged in stainless steel, it's lightly aromatic with notes of stone fruit and macerated grape skins. It drinks off-dry with the flavor concentration a bit wanting.
Blended with 15% Syrah, this is a distinctive wine with aromas of herbs, coffee and vanilla. The palate seems wound up, not quite ready to reveal its charms.
Blended with 15% Viognier and 10% Sémillon, and aged in 50% new French oak, this brightly aromatic wine conveys brown sugar, dried pineapple and papaya. At a whopping 245 g/L residual sugar, it's intensely sweet and rich, with a honeyed, viscous feel.
Blended with 16% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in a mixture of French and American oak (50% new), this wine highlights notes of raspberries and cream speckled with oak spices and an herbal edge. The palate is light and elegant in style while still retaining a sense of depth, plushness and balance.
Blended with 16% Sauvignon Blanc, this wine brings notes of herb, fig and spice. The palate is full and well balanced, showing a touch of warmth on the finish.
Blended with 17% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged for 28 months in French oak, this broad-shouldered red is powerfully concentrated and tightly wound. Raisin cake, cigar box and baked plum play nicely together within an intense texture of leathery spice.
Blended with 17% Sauvignon Blanc, this lovely Sémillon is exceptionally fragrant, satiny and rich, with fleshy, ripe fruits and just a hint of toast. A warm streak of caramel enlivens the finish, which lingers gracefully and fills the palate with delicious flavors of apples and spicy pears.
Blended with 18% Merlot, this shows a mix of black cherry, fig and sweet prune fruit flavors. Some smoke from barrel aging comes in, and it's good right up to the finish, which has a gluey undertone.
Blended with 19% Merlot and 3% Malbec, this Cabernet Franc is richly round and structured, offering a length and breadth of bright flavor and complexity. Black cherry, leather and white pepper compete with classic notions of dried herb and violet, the layers intertwining on the lengthy finish. While it's enjoyable now, it will cellar well through 2024–2030.
Blended with 19% Petite Sirah and 3% Carignane, from vines averaging 50-plus-years of age, this is a bold and brambly wine, laced in elegance. Coffee, leather and a taste of caramel are seasoned in allspice and black pepper, as persistent, sinewy tannins provide weight and heft.
Blended with 20% Grenache, this wine displays somewhat reticent aromas of cranberry, baking spice, raspberry and plum. The cherry flavors are rich with the tannins initially showing a touch of astringency that softens over time.
Blended with 20% Petit Verdot, this unusual offering brings notes of mushroom, herbs, smoke and dark cherries. It's tightly wound with a firm squeeze of tannins.
Blended with 20% Sauvignon Blanc, this wine starts out somewhat aromatically brooding, with notes of melon and toast. It brings plenty of texture and richness, with a creamy feel and a warm finish.
Blended with 20% Syrah, then aged almost two years in nearly all-new American oak, this wine is a mouthful of leather and tannin, with a dash of black pepper on the finish.
Blended with 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, this aromatically generous wine offers notes of clove, purple fruit, coffee, black pepper and spice. It's ripe but in balance, with palate-coating, velvety fruit flavors that linger.
Blended with 25% Cabernet Franc and barrel-aged in 55% new French oak, this wine displays aromas of cocoa, dried herbs, pencil lead and dark cherries. The cherry and coffee flavors are medium bodied, backed by lightly gritty tannins that might soften with some time in the cellar.
Blended with 25% Cabernet Franc, this engaging wine has aromas of herbs and blackberries. The fruit shows a real sense of vibrancy and purity, laden with tart, cranberry-like acidity and firm, lightly chalky tannins. Just a baby now, it should be at its peak in 2025.
Blended with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, wood aromas are at the fore, with notes of baking spice followed by braised green pepper along with jalapeño pepper and blackberry. The flavors are saturated and ripe, bringing a sense of softness that provides intrigue.
Blended with 25% Grenache, this is an enjoyable wine with notes of peppery spice and plum. It's all about mouthfeel, light fruit flavors and citrusy acidity.
Blended with 25% Roussanne and fermented and aged in French oak, the aromas are light but intriguing, with slightly reduced notes of peach, cream, flowers and spice. The poached pear and stone-fruit flavors are delicate but accented by tart focused acidity that keeps the interest up.
Blended with 25% Roussanne, this wine brings light aromas of straw, lees and spice. The palate is medium bodied, with tart lemony acidity followed by a lingering finish. It's perhaps the best example of this variety from the state to date.
Blended with 3% Sémillon, this is a creamy, luxuriously textured wine with fresh peach and apricot aromas. Rich with an underlying crispness, it finishes on a squeeze of lime.
Blended with 4% Viognier and 1% Grenache, this fragrant offering displays aromas of fresh flowers, herbs, green olive, huckleberry and smoked meat. The palate is ripe and fruit-forward, a bit balled up in the middle right now but showing a pleasing sense of purity with length to match. Give it time to come into its own.
Blended with 4% Viognier and 1% Grenache, this fragrant offering displays aromas of fresh flowers, herbs, green olive, huckleberry and smoked meat. The palate is ripe and fruit forward, a bit balled up in the middle right now but showing a pleasing sense of purity with length to match. Give it time to come into its own.
Blended with 4% Viognier, this is an attention-getting wine with aromas of black olive, nori, brown stems, smoked meat and blue fruit, unmistakably coming from The Rocks District. The layered, supple mouthfeel is where this wine truly struts its stuff with abundant blue fruit and savory flavors. It's a complete knockout.
Blended with 5% Sémillon, this crisp, tropical white is generous with bright acidity and a strong taste of pineapple and lemon. Zippy minerality adds a stoniness to the texture and flavor, as a fresh-cut grass note lingers in the background.
Blended with 5% Viognier and aged in a combination of new French oak, neutral oak and stainless steel, this is a full-bodied white that offers a wealth of ripe peach, apricot and key lime flavor.
Blended with 50% Sauvignon Musque that gives it a distinctly floral note, this wine has just a touch of oak, which gives it some smoky toastiness. It's quite tart in citrusy acidity that gets the mouth watering. Flavorwise, the lemon, lime, and guava flavors have a strong cut of tart, green gooseberries.
Blended with 6% Marsanne, the aromas are light (considering the appellation and producer), bringing notes of herb, smoked meat, white pepper, mineral and earth. The flavors are tart and bright, creating a real sense of freshness and vibrancy.
Blended with 6% Petit Verdot, this high-end estate wine is lovely and balanced, dense in tannin and brawny structure yet elegant in cedar, graphite and sage. The fruit leans savory and tart along the lines of red currant and cassis.
Blended with 6% Petit Verdot, this wine is treated as a reserve-tier bottling. It delivers high-toned red fruit and plum notes dusted with spice and dried herb. It's robust in body and weight and long on the finish.
Blended with 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Petite Sirah, this velvety and dense wine conveys a pronounced element of charred oak. A reduced note from the barrel permeates at first before allowing aromas and flavors of baked plum to show.
Blended with 7% Syrah and smaller proportions of Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and other grapes, this well-made wine is restrained in style.It shows crisp red fruit, orange and cranberry loaded around dusty tannins, big oak and chocolate.
Blended with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, this mountain-grown wine offers bold black plum and berry around a compacted, extracted fullness of tannin and French oak. Dried herb, clove and vanilla accent the fruit, while the finish lingers gingerly.
Blended with 8% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot, this is a well-made wine from the mountain appellation. With integrated oak and a supportive undercurrent of acidity, it's rounded and rich in bright cherry fruit, the accents a mix of clove and graphite, finishing with balance.
Blended with 8% Petite Sirah and aged less than a year in French and American oak, this wine is simple, with compostable earth scents and soft, round layers of brambly blackberry fruit.
Blended with 8% Petite Sirah and then aged almost a year in American oak, 30% of it new, this is fruity and smoky in equal measure. Its tones of blackberry, leather and black pepper are harmonious. Round and soft, it's easy to drink and will be approachable to a variety of palates.
Blended with 9% Grenache, this is velvety-thick on the palate, with black licorice, black raspberry and a savory tone of grilled meat. Medium-bodied, it relatively restrained in the glass, not giving in to its denser, darker side.
Blended with 9% Sémillon, this wine has aromas of lemon curd, starfruit, barrel spices (18% new French oak) and fig. It's full bodied, with a creamy feel and a lingering finish.
Blended with a drop of Merlot, this Cabernet Sauvignon remains deeply tannic and dry. It has classic flavors of black currants, anise liqueur and minerals, with quite a bit of acidity. It's complex, compelling and still far too young. Give it until 2018 to begin to come around, and it will be gorgeous in the mid-2020s.
Blended with a healthy dose (21%) of Merlot, this luxurious, velvety wine is named for co-owner Craig Hall's mother. Blackberry jam, black pepper and a touch of thick tar mark the full-bodied deliciousness going on here, a totally pleasurable experience worth enjoying now, though it can be held through 2020.
Blended with a little Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah, this is a soft, sweet, peppery Merlot, filled with luscious, warm-climate flavors of black cherries, raspberries and chocolate. There's a lot of sweet, smoky oak, too. Drink up.
Blended with a little Cabernet Franc, it's dry, smoothly tannic and ripe in black cherry jam, herb tea and sandalwood flavors. It's not ageable, but shows a certain elegance of structure.
Blended with a little Cabernet Franc, this is an incredibly rich wine, drinkable now for its approachability. It pleases with blackberry and black cherry jam and spice flavors, wrapped into smooth, creamy tannins.
Blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon, this Petit Verdot succeeds wildly in appealing to the senses. It's rich, dry and smooth in tannins with intense oak, blackberry and chocolate flavors, with a little bit of warmth on the finish. Ready to drink now.
Blended with a little Petite Sirah, this is fruitier than your average Dry Creek Zin, with jammy raspberry and cherry flavors. But it has the variety's peppery spices and that briary, brambly character that suggests freshly picked summer berries. Great with Szechuan beef.
Blended with a little Syrah, Petite Sirah and Sangiovese, this Merlot in a big box is clearly a terrific value. It's so lush and delicious in berries and spices, it's crazy that the price works out to $6.25 for a regular bottle. With production over 200,000 cases, it's a testament to the art of blending.
Blended with a small amount of Merlot (10%), this wine sends up a classic bouquet of cassis and berry, with a nice hint of mint. It’s well crafted, but tight and a little hard yet, especially in the finish. Built for aging.
Blended with a splash of Grenache Blanc, this white is floral, viscous and full of a nutty character. It's the first vintage in which the producer has included grapes from Catie's Corner.
Blended with a whopping 15% Petit Verdot, this wine offers locked-up aromas of pencil lead, floral notes, plum and dark fruit. The palate is packed with fruit and herb flavors that intertwine through the lingering finish. The tannins provide some serious grip.
Blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine offers barrel-dominant aromas, with notes of coffee, vanilla and woodspice. The raspberry and cranberry flavors are quite ripe and luscious.
Blended with hearty amounts of Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and 8% unidentified, this is a likable, basic wine, dry in herb, cedar and pencil that'll work well with food.
Blended with its Rhône cousins, Marsanne and Grenache Blanc, this is a very rich, soft white wine. It's flamboyant in orange, apricot, peach, buttered toast and vanilla custard flavors that finish sweet. Could be drier and better structured.
Blended with less than a handful of Petite Sirah, this wine is thick and ultraripe, showing dense chocolate and plum sauce flavors, accented with soy.
Blended with Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, this wine remains somewhat generic in tone and style, offering red berry and currant in measured doses around a big body and cut of oak.
Blended with nearly 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is lightly aromatic with notes of moist soil, violets and ground cashews. It's full bodied and tightly wound with dense cherry flavors and firm but not unyielding tannins.
Blended with Petit Verdot, this is a fragrant, opulent wine that's softly tannic and easy to drink. It has deep flavors of ripe blackberries, mocha, violets and smoky cedar. Drink now.
Blended with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this has pinpoint focus and is packed with ripe berry fruit. The oak aging (45% new) and crisp tannins layer in veins of espresso and dark chocolate. Drink now through 2022.
Blended with small amounts of Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this shows classic mountain characteristics of strength and power, with a smooth sublime foundation of textured tannin at its core. Dark cherry, vanilla and chocolate provide a richness of broad flavor, accented in cedar, tobacco and an underlying acidity that leaves a tangy finish.
Blended with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec, this is an austere, unfussy red made in modest quantities that has crisp red currant and cranberry flavors interwoven with cedar and dried herb.
Blended with small amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, this lovely, earthy and herbal wine is lightly spiced with clove and pepper notes. Fresh with forest-like scents, it hails from Coombsville beneath Mount George.
Blended with small amounts of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this approachable, accessible and well-made wine is juicy with black fruit and smoky with integrated oak and tannin. Its powerful flavor and robust body ease up on the finish.
Blended with smaller amounts of Merlot and Petit Verdot, this mighty wine offers a depth and concentration of berry pie, chocolate and vanilla within a moderately structured amount of acidity. Bright cassis and currant add some freshness.
Blended with some Merlot, this Cab has high alcohol that makes it hot and glyceriney sweet. The blackberry and black cherry fruit flavors show jammy richness. The wine isn't going anywhere, so drink up.
Blended with some Sémillon for complexity, this is a dry, tart wine with green flavors that are relieved by hints of mangoes and new oak. It shows all the likeability of Sauvignon Blanc, including bright acidity and a slightly sweet finish of honey.
Blended with splashes of Petit Verdot and Merlot, this Cabernet is rich, soft and smooth. The blackberry, currant and chocolate flavors are at their full, primary expression, and promise a long, evolving aging process in the years ahead.
Blended with ten percent Syrah and aged in neutral oak, this wine from the cool 2011 vintage brings notes of black pepper, plum, and game. It's full bodied and intense with tart flavors and firm, somewhat dry tannins.
Blended with the classic Bordeaux varieties, this is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon's blackberry and cassis liqueur flavors. Lots of sweet oak gives a buttery, toasty richness. Drink now.
Blending 75% Cabernet Franc with 25% Merlot, this wine is mildly aromatic on the nose, showing red cherry, spice and violet. While the palate is medium in weight, a string of acidity cuts short the blackberry and cherry flavors. Grainy tannins build on the finish, with a shock of cranberry and vanilla marking the close.
Blending 77% Petite Sirah and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon from a field blend of 80-year-old head-pruned vines, this tiny-production effort is impressively light on its feet, aged in all neutral French oak. An abundance of white pepper jumps from the glass as waves of violet, leather, tobacco and earth surround the rich round palate that is braced in strong underlying acidity.
Blending 85% Cabernet Sauvignon with 12% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec, this wine offers length and breadth, built on a foundation of firm tannin and toasted oak. The palate suggests blackberry, black cherry and licorice, remaining lively and fresh in the glass.
Blending 90% Sauvignon Blanc with 10% Sémillon, this white is perfumed in jasmine and apricot honey. On the palate it becomes somewhat fleshier and less expressive, allowing for just a hint of peach.
Blending Aragonez with Touriga Nacional has produced a magnificently structured wine, big and bold and packed with dark fruits. The wood aging and the firm tannins show strongly even after four years and the wine obviously needs aging. There is a fine, juicy backdrop that will develop to give a serious, complex and impressive wine. Drink from 2017.
Blending Baga and Touriga Nacional, this wine delivers a big sweep of red fruits and spice. Juicy acidity bursts from the glass. The firm tannins of both grapes are still there and need time to round out. Give this wine until 2017.
Blending Cabernet and Merlot, this is a caramel-flavored dry rosé, with good berry fruitiness. There's a fine final burst of acidity.
Blending Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and Syrah, RTW is somewhat classical in its black olive and dried herb, yet also rich and concentrated, with tannic bite and a taste of clove. It finishes like vanilla cola.
Blending Cabernet with 33% Petit Verdot might seem like folly indeed but it works on this wine. The aromas of flowers, vanilla and spice are quite reticent while the dark fruit flavors pack a well-balanced punch, with firm tannins and spritely, mouthwatering acids capturing the attention.
Blending Cabernet, Carmenère and Petit Verdot could only happen in Chile, and here it takes on a candied, simple personality that will please undemanding palates but may bore those seeking more. If you're after red-berry flavors, body and alcohol, this wine fits the bill.
Blending Castelão and Arinto from the high elevation Quinta dos Loridos, this is a tight, bright wine, with an edge of almond bitterness, as well as citrus fruits. It's a crisp, bone-dry wine with no dosage.
Blending Chardonnay and Arinto, this wine has come with a fine balance between a creamy texture and bright acidity. It is ripe, fruity with a soft character that also has an aromatic element. Drink the wine from 2018.
Blending Chardonnay and Viognier with local grapes, the wine is smooth and creamy. It has apple and bright citrus flavors with a cool, crisp backdrop of acidity. The aftertaste, with its tangy, salty character is a reminder of the ocean climate of the region.
Blending distinction with sheer pleasure, the bouquet opens with scents of green, black, and Kalamata olives, sage, forest floor and slate. Those aromas translate remarkably to the palate, which is a potpourri of dried herbs and wet earth. There are barely any overt fruit characteristics, and the savory, sophisticated result is simply delicious.
Blending Douro's native Viosinho and Verdelho grapes, this is ripe, wood aged and smooth. It has layers of citrus, grapefruit and white fruits, apple juice and pears. It is fruity, fresh and ready to drink.
Blending Duras and Syrah indicates how Gaillac is at the median point between the Atlantic and Mediterranean climates in France. The wine is earthy, herbal, rich while rustic. It has a big, spicy background to the red fruits and will certainly develop. Drink from 2016.
Blending Duras, Braucol and Syrah, this is a powerful wine, perfumed and dominated by tannins from fruit and wood. There is a great juiciness as well, with the black cherry and black currant fruits bursting around the mouth. For aging—allow at least 5–6 years.
Blending Encruzado and Malvasia Fina, this lightly wood-aged wine is rich, stylish and full of young fruit flavors. Green plums, apricots and a squeeze of lemon all give their bright character to the palate. There is a firm, mineral texture that promises some aging; drink from 2017.
Blending Fernão Pires and Sauvignon Blanc from the Casal Branco estate, this is a crisp wine that is full of white fruit flavors, hints of pineapple and an herbal edge. It is bright, light and ready to drink.
Blending fruit from four vineyards, this opens with dusty aromatics of rose petals, baking spices and cocoa. The mouthfeel continues in a pleasantly dusty vein, showing tart berry and pie-cherry flavors with a lick of mocha.
Blending grapes from around the appellation, this wine is a fine reflection of its structure and minerality. It's rich and full, while keeping plenty of crisp acidity to contrast its creamy texture. It needs to age for another year, so wait until 2018.
Blending local grapes with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot has resulted in a bold, ripe and fruity wine. It has the warmth and richness of southern Alentejo, its soft tannins and ripe fruit cut with acidity and spice. Full bodied and balanced, it will be ready to drink from 2018.
Blending Loin de l'Oeil and Sauvignon Blanc, this perfumed, smooth and spicy wine is immediately arresting. The spicy character dominates, allowing smaller parts for the pear fruit and balanced acidity. The wine is young and will age for a few more months, so drink from late 2017.
Blending Négrette with Syrah and Cabernet Franc, this rich, full-in-the-mouth rosé is ripe and packed with red berry fruits and a touch of spice. The up-front fruitiness of the wine is leavened with a fresh, crisp aftertaste.
Blending Pinot Noir and Gamay, this wine comes from a new Burgundy-wide appellation that can include fruit from Beaujolais. It's a style of wine that needs to be drunk young and fruity, with black cherry flavors and refreshing acidity. Drink this lively wine now.
Blending Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this is rich and full in the mouth. It has great acidity to go with its raspberry and red currant fruitiness. To give structure, a tense, steely backbone brings in the acidity.
Blending Sémillon and Muscadelle, this is a rich, unctuous wine with a rich texture. Honey and apricot flavors are underlain with intense acidity that gives this superb wine a fine lift and elegance. It could certainly age, but is delicious now.
Blending Syrah and Touriga Franca, this is the flagship wine from this property. New barrel aging adds a creamy toast character to a rich wine with its dusty tannins and dense texture. At the same time, the wine is very elegant, ripe with its black fruits. Still young, it will be ready from 2019.
Blending the earthy elements of the low-alcohol movement with the characteristic ripeness of California fruit, this wine by Trey Fletcher offers rhubarb, wet strawberry leaves, pencil shavings, rose hips, wild berries and anise on the nose. The extremely soft palate shows stewed raspberries, poppy seeds and rose petals, proving unique but varietally appropriate.
Blending the three red grapes of Gaillac (Duras, Braucol and Syrah), this is an impressively rich wine, with signs of its wood aging just integrating with the ripe black-currant fruit and firm tannins. It has an exhilarating aftertaste of acidity and young fruits. Drink from 2020.
Blending Touriga Franca, Syrah and Alicante Bouschet, this is an attractive young wine. With both acidity and tannins already integrated into the ripe black fruit, it is a wine to drink young.
Blending Touriga Nacional and Syrah, this personal blend is named after Domingos Soares Franco, the head winemaker at J.M. da Fonseca. The wine is big, fruity and perfumed, with black, ripe fruit flavors and a solid edge, finishing with dark chocolate.
Blending Touriga Nacional and Syrah, this wine shows density, richness and attractive perfumes. The structure is solid and chunky, with ripe tannins, black and red berry fruits and an edge of leather. The aftertaste is rustic, dense, dry.
Blending Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, this is a plummy, prune-like expression. Firm, generous tannins surround its juicy black fruit and black pepper flavors, lending structure to the full-bodied fruitiness.
Blends honeyed citrus and rasping jalapeño juice in a bouquet that's enticing, but the wine seems to thin out a bit on the palate, showing simple green pepper and lime flavors. Best with shellfish or vegetable appetizers.
Blends ripe tropical fruit—even including hints of mango and banana—with more pungent notes in a full-bodied, almost sweet-seeming Sauvignon Blanc. Flashy upfront, then fades a bit on the finish.
Blessed with some of the most beautiful vineyards in an isolated spot in central Sicily (Contea di Sclafani), vintner Fabio Sireci's full attention goes to the quality of his fruit. This top-shelf expression of Nero d'Avola offers bright red fruit and softly toasted almond.
Blind, you could be forgiven for thinking this is the winery's flagship, Homage Syrah. An intoxicating nose of baking spices, blueberries and boysenberries leads to a palate with ample weight and plush tannins. It's complex, earthy and spicy, but with a beam of lively, just-ripe fruit from start to long-lived finish. Drink this stunning value through 2023.
Bliss Block lies within the property's Quail Hill Vineyard and is the coolest two acres on the estate. Spicy acidity and dark earth support a full-bodied, oaky imprint of complexity and structure, dotted in savory cranberry and black tea.
Blistered cranberries, seared plums, slate, sandalwood and a whiff of pine forest pop on the nose of this bottling by Santa Barbara-raised winemaker Steve Gerbac. The palate bursts with energy, showing flavors of black sage, cherry, tart cranberry, pan-toasted herbs and cedar verve. The elements will focus and be even better 2017–2023.
Blistered red plum, savory herbs, black olive and a touch of green peppercorn show on the nose of this blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. Pencil lead and black peppercorns come through on the palate, spicing up the black-cherry, clay-earth and roasted-coffee flavors. It goes down easy.
Blistered tomato dominates the aromatic profile on Roblar's top-end Pinot Noir bottling. The flavors are also quite pleasing, with the savory umami of stewed tomatoes again leading the way, with some violet and other purple flowers singing back-up. The palate is silky, the finish properly acidic, and the alcohol is nicely restrained. Serve with pasta alla puttanesca.
Block 10 was made with 25% whole cluster fermentation, the result bold and impressive in cola cherry and soft baking spices, an intriguing floral note akin to geranium or gardenia highlighting the palate. Midway, expect an expansive opening of the wine, before notes of cocoa and espresso delve in.
Block 23 is all Pommard clone. At first the drying, tea-flavored tannins push the fruit down, but over many hours the wine expands with generous flavors of cherry fruit leather, candied orange peel, and polished tannins.
Block 8 is pure Wädenswil clone, displaying peppery brambly berry flavors and plenty of underbrush. The acids are sharp and bring suggestions of oranges and other citrus. The “Single Block Series” wines may be enjoyed as single components, or mixed as pieces of a home-made blend.
Block 8 is pure Wädenswil clone. This is exceptionally aromatic, with bramble and underbrush prominent. Light strawberry fruit comes up with hints of sassafras and drying tannins. It's an interesting component but would be even better in a blend.
Block One is the original (1972) planting at Champoux, and it has anchored many of Washington's finest wines over the past 20 years. Few if any better are than this, a huge wine with massive flavors of dense black fruits, from berries to cherries to cassis. It's seen plenty of new oak, giving it a cedar-soaked scent, but the sheer power of the wine promises a long and expressive development over the coming decades.
Blockbuster intensity is delivered here in part thanks to the dense soils and concentrated style associated with the Brunate cru, and in part due to the warmth and power of the 2007 vintage. Lingering tones of vanilla, sweet spice, red cherry and soft chocolate fuel a long, luscious finish.
Blocky and brambly on the nose, with a fair amount of funk. The palate is crisp, semitart and lean-bodied, and with tight acidity it's a little scouring. Lots of red-fruit character but not a lot of mouthfeel.
Blocky and tart, this shows little of the flower or delicate citrus notes that many Oregon Rieslings convey. The clean apple flavor makes it good for summer picnics.
Blocky on the nose and a touch cheesy and leathery smelling, with gritty berry aromas and balsamic notes. It feels tight, wiry and powerful, with peppery, minty, spicy flavors lending character to the fruit. This finishes toasty and peppery, with a hint of warmth.
Blocky on the nose, with mild heat and burn to go with standard raspberry aromas. Feels full, with a resiny, oak-based thickness in front of chunky flavors of raspberry and plum. Dry, woody and buttery on the finish.
Blocky, stewy, raisiny aromas of nonspecific black fruits are jumbled and green. This feels awkward and jammy, with little to no structural integrity. Flavors of prune, raisin and oak finish soft and loamy.
Blocky, warm, earthy berry and raisin aromas smell oaky and minty. This is fairly sticky on the mouth, with resiny oak flavors topping candied berry fruit. This drinks like a liquid bonbon made of milk chocolate and black cherry jam.
Blood orange and peach snatch your senses at the very first whiff. The aromatics are disarming but no longer heady: this has matured into a sober pleasure that's full of peaches scented with passion fruit and barley sugar. The flavors swirl and soar, the luscious sweetness anchors them deftly. This is what a combination of time, fruit and a sugar can do. This is a very sweet late harvest style, suited to fruity desserts.
Bloody meats, dried cherries, pressed purple flowers, vanilla and blackberry jam arise on the nose of this blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc and 7% Merlot, which shows a little age. The purple flowers really come through once sipped, backed up by sour cherries, mocha and sanguine elements, cast across grippy tannins.
Bloody, barely charred game aromas meet with slightly dusty raspberry and tomato in this unforgettable and unfiltered Bonny Doon experience, a blend of 30% Syrah, 28% Grenache, 22% Mourvèdre and 20% Cinsault. The sanguine sense carries to the palate, but so does a basket of red fruit, from cherry to pomegranate. A chalky tannic backbone will keep it drinking nicely for as long as patience holds.
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.
Blossom and citrus inform the nose—white jasmine hovers alongside grapefruit and orange. The palate is juicy and full of bouncy easy fruit on a fluid dryish body. Bright lemon freshness makes the fruit flavors even more vivid. The balance between fruit and freshness gives this tension and makes it very moreish. The finish is clean and orange scented.
Blossom and citrus notes stream from the glass—there are notes of green pear too. The slender palate boosts these fruit notes with a generous but still dry dosage, while hints of grassy herbs play along the edges. This is frothy, easy and very fresh. Drink soon.
Blossom and peach notes are layered amidst dust and bramble on the nose of this robust, full-bodied Grüner Veltliner. Lushly textured, the palate showcases white grapefruit flavor tinged with characteristic notes of pepper and spice.
Blossom and steel aromas collide in this deliciously ripe yet nuanced semisweet Riesling. While luscious yellow cherry and apricot flavors penetrate on the palate, it shows lively freshness, amplified by breathless mineral vitality.
Blossom honey, a touch of melon and fresh, fragrant red-apple fruit make for an appetizing nose. On the palate these alluring flavors are joined by the generous, rounded notion of sponge cake. Towards the finish the pure freshness of bright lemon takes over, and fine bubbles offer fruit and creaminess. It's a balanced and appetizing rosé with a lasting, beautifully yeasty finish.
Blossoms and pink grapefruits scent this fresh, fruity wine. Off dry in style, it's concentrated in plush, tropical flavors of guava and mango yet calibrated neatly by a vein of lime acidity. It's guzzably fresh and approachable but refined enough for elegant dining occasions. Drink now through 2019.
Blossoms and tangerines perfume this elegantly composed blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. It's rich and creamy on the palate, with concentrated flavors of apple and quince, but finishes with a gorgeous sheen of salty oyster shells.
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.
Blossomy and fragrant from start to finish, this semisweet Riesling offers loads of spring floral freshness. Crisp apple and pear flavors are a bit lean in concentration, but sunny lemon acidity lingers brightly on the finish.
Blossomy and fresh with apple and pear aromas, this sprightly wine seems to flit and quiver on the palate with its piercing grapefruit acidity. Fresh and fruity with hints of quince jelly and lemon candy, it finishes long with a gorgeously honeyed, floral finish.
Blossomy and fresh, this off-dry, light-footed Riesling offers a palate full of sweet-tart white-grapefruit flavor. Zesty and spry, it's a refreshing apéritif best enjoyed young.
Blossomy and perfumed, this exuberant Viognier offers loads of juicy cantaloupe and tangerine flavors. It's uncharacteristically light in body, lacking the variety's typical heft and unctuousness, but its crisp refreshing style makes it quite quaffable.
Blossomy and perfumed, this white wine made from red Pinot Noir grapes exudes much of the variety's smoky floral flair against the backdrop of a crisp, refreshing white wine. The palate is concentrated in pressed apple and pear notes that finish briskly. Drink now.
Blossomy and perfumed, yet reverberating with steel, acid and minerals, this stunning off-dry Riesling packs so much more power and punch than it's diminutive frame suggests. Sweet, pristine white peach and cherry flavors persist through a long, meandering finish. Drinks beautifully now, but is powerful enough to evolve well till at least 2025.
Blossomy and pert, this is an elegant rosé sparkling offering fresh, juicy cherry and raspberry flavors. Bristling acidity and tiny, persistent pétillance invigorate the palate. Made from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vinified by indigenous yeast.
Blossomy floral and bramble notes accent ripe black currant and raspberry flavors in this zesty blend of Dornfelder, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It's plush and velvety in mouthfeel and maintains intensity through a moderately long finish. Drink now through 2018.
Blossomy fresh with a bounty of crisp white peach and apricot flavor, this sprightly Weissburgunder, or Pinot Blanc, is the embodiment of spring. Lively and light-footed, it's an invigorating thirst quencher finishing on a zesty spray of lime and mineral.
Blossomy in perfume, this Prosecco-inspired Finger Lakes sparkling offers fresh fruity citrus and red-apple flavors. It's softer and looser in petillance than wines made with Damiani's traditional method of bottling but striking acidity lends bold upright structure. Drink now.
Blossomy lemon-scented freshness streams from the glass. Underneath that, some crisp apple flavors appear. The same slender, refreshing and crisp notes pervade the dry palate which seems to be frothy and creamy at the same time. A restrained dosage shows off some slight biscuit notes.
Blossomy perfume wafts throughout this squeaky fresh off-dry Riesling. Tart tangerine and punchy yellow peach and mango flavors are vibrant and crisp, resonating long on the finish. It's a straightforward yet balanced, fruity wine. Drink now.
Blossomy pink-grapefruit perfume bursts from this fruity, floral, complex auslese. While lip-smackingly sweet with flavors of red berries and hibiscus nectar, it's grounded with a backdrop of acidity and steely minerality that resonates long through the finish.
Blowsy and mustardy, like it's starting to turn south. The palate is loud, jumbled and heavy, with mustardy orange flavors, a touch of flowery honey and then bitterness. Big and powerful, but not very poised.
Blowsy and tropical, with aromatic flabbiness. The feel is acceptable and the flavors of papaya and dry white fruits bring some saucy, resiny qualities. Finishes with sappy, resiny oak notes and just enough Chardonnay character to not be disastrous.
Blowsy, floral aromas are grounded by a strong mineral scent that suggests crushed vitamins. This offers width and depth on the palate, with peach, apple and citrus flavors. The finish turns a bit sweet, but the fruit stays defined and bright.
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.
Blue-black in color, this wine is dense in leather and grippy oak, a coming together texturally and on the palate in baked plum and blackberry. Full bodied, the wine settles in the glass to offer breadth and depth.
Blue-flower and red-berry aromas lead the way along with a whiff of eucalyptus. The firm palate offers hints of star anise, espresso and a green note of powdered sage that back up unripe red cherry. It closes on a coffee note.
Blue-fruit and spice aromas are vibrant and expressive. The palate is plush and flavorful with a supple feel, while the oak seems dialed back and the balance spot on.
Blue-fruit aromas and flavors are indistinct on the nose. Massive tannins, lemony oak, plastic and graphite notes drive the palate. The finish is a forced marriage of licorice, oak, and vanilla.
Blue-fruit aromas are front and center along with notes of herb and barrel spice. The palate shows restraint and suppleness that continues through the sweet fruit flavors on the finish. It's an intriguing, stylistically unique offering of this variety.
Blue-fruit aromas intermingle with vanilla and other barrel spices. The coffee and plum flavors are full and supple in feel, followed by a tart finish. The wood seems a bit primary but the fruit and feel is still hard to ignore.
Blue-raspberry Jell-O tones meld with flecks of green herbal notes on the nose and palate. The medium body is a bit disjointed, showing slightly sharp acidity.
Blue and red-fruit aromas lead to lightly styled cherry flavors. Herb accents run throughout.
Blue and red fruit wrap around ample, tangy acidity in this medium-bodied, velvety textured wine, so classically styled for the appellation. Pomegranate, rhubarb and floral rose are all highlighted along its gradual evolution in the glass.
Blue flower, baked plum, exotic spice and pipe tobacco are just some of the aromas you'll find on this bold red. The full-bodied enveloping palate doles out layers of juicy black cherry marinated in spirits, fig, cinnamon, mocha and nutmeg framed in velvety tannins. Drink through 2022.
Blue flower, baked plum, vanilla and a whiff of resin lead the nose. The juicy, straightforward palate offers dried sour cherry, cranberry, anise and a hint of white pepper alongside fine-grained tannins.
Blue flower, baking spice and red-berry aromas lead the nose. The ripe, straightforward palate shows mature dark cherry, clove, anise and a confectionary note framed in firm tannins.
Blue flower, baking spice, sun baked earth and mature berry aromas come together on this solid red. The enjoyable, medium-bodied palate offers red plum, raspberry and a hint of cinnamon framed in supple polished tannins.
Blue flower, blackberry, leather, underbrush and vanilla aromas jump out the glass with this warm, full-bodied wine. The dense, one-dimensional palate offers ripe black cherry and sweet oak accented with vanilla and cinnamon notes. It's already reached its ideal drinking window so enjoy soon.
Blue flower, blackberry, toast and balsamic notes lead the nose on this blend of 90% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and Colorino. The palate is still tightly tannic but delivers a core of savory black cherry accented with notes of black pepper, licorice and espresso. It has a brooding character and is shy on bright acidity so best to enjoy this soon.
Blue flower, crushed mint, dark spice and new leather aromas take center stage in this wine, along with a whiff of hazelnut. The palate doesn't quite live up to the nose, offering dried black cherry, licorice and powdered sage notes and bracing tannins.
Blue flower, dark-skinned berry, star anise, menthol and espresso show on the nose. The aromas carry to the palate, along with dried black cherry, licorice, toast and a hint of sage. Firm, close-grained tannins provide support. Drink 2012–2033.
Blue flower, espresso, menthol and dried sage aromas lead the nose. The full-bodied tannic palate offers dried black cherry and the warmth of alcohol alongside oak-driven sensations of coconut, roasted coffee bean and a hint of licorice. Solid grainy tannins provide the framework and give it a somewhat astringent finish.
Blue flower, exotic spice and dark berry aromas take shape on this full-bodied glossy red. The structured enveloping palate offers dried morello cherry, raspberry, star anise and pipe tobacco alongside compact fine-grained tannins. It already has so much to offer but will be even better in a few years. Drink 2019–2029.
Blue flower, exotic spice, mature black-skinned fruit and chopped herb are some of the aromas you'll discover on this full-bodied wine. The chewy palate offers a core of fleshy black cherry while notes of cinnamon, licorice and tobacco provide backup. Tightly packed, youthfully austere tannins offset the juicy fruit flavors. Drink 2020–2030.
Blue flower, iris, used leather and woodland berry aromas float out of the glass. The easygoing palate offers red cherry, white pepper and a hint of anise accompanied by soft relaxed tannins. Drink through 2017.
Blue flower, leather, tobacco, espresso and spicy plum aromas unfold in the glass. The tightly wound palate offers toasted oak, coffee, sage and dried black fruit alongside bracing, teeth-coating tannins. Give this time to unwind. Drink 2017–2024.
Blue flower, mature plum, dark soil and exotic spice aromas take shape in the glass. The rich palate offers black cherry marinated in spirits, espresso and anise notes alongside grippy tannins. Drink through 2016.
Blue flower, mature plum, licorice, clove, mocha and menthol aromas all come together on this brawny red. The warm, bold palate delivers juicy black cherry, espresso, ground pepper and anisette alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, it won't need years to come around. Drink 2018–2028.
Blue flower, menthol, red berry, dried herb and woodshop scents lead the nose of this wine. The linear palate offers cranberry, star anise, espresso and clove flavors, with a backbone of vibrant acidity. Tightly wound tannins grip the finish.
Blue flower, moist soil, black berries and leather lead the nose on this vibrant blend of 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. The savory palate doles out black cherry, red currants, white pepper, clove and a hint of mocha alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity.
Blue flower, moist soil, leather, game, ripe dark berry and graphite are just some of the aromas of this powerfully structured, delicious wine. The palate delivers layers of juicy black cherry, blackberry, raspberry, white pepper and clove alongside youthfully assertive but ripe tannins. Drink 2017–2030.
Blue flower, plum and toast notes lead the nose. The firm, tightly wound palate offers espresso, clove and grilled herb flavors, while close-grained tannins leave a bracing finish.
Blue flower, plum, leather and underbrush aromas come together in the glass. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove, tobacco and aniseed alongside velvety tannins. A black pepper note signals the close. Drink through 2018.
Blue flower, red berries and Mediterranean herbs take center stage in this delicious blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Ciliegiolo. The bright, lively palate offers a solid core of black cherry and raspberry layered with black pepper and thyme. It's extremely inviting and approachable now, so enjoy soon. Vos Selections, Tosco Wine.
Blue flower, red berry and mint aromas lead the nose. The straightforward palate offers fleshy wild cherry, raspberry, vanilla and mocha alongside chewy tannins. Drink through 2019.
Blue flower, red berry, forest floor and a whiff of Mediterranean herb lead the nose. The racy, linear palate delivers black cherry, pomegranate and clove framed in sleek tannins and bracing acidity. A note of powdered sage closes the finish.
Blue flower, red berry, mocha and a whiff of chopped herb aromas meld together on this vibrant red. The fresh, round palate offers sour cherry, chocolate, coffee and a hint of star anise. Fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provide the lithe framework.
Blue flower, ripe berry and baking spice aromas unfold in the glass of this blend of Sangiovese, Sagrantino, Cabernet and Merlot. The juicy palate delivers black cherry, vanilla, cinnamon and espresso alongside bracing tannins.
Blue flower, ripe berry, baking spice and mint aromas lead the nose on this full-bodied, elegant wine. The palate delivers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, licorice and mineral alongside firm, ripe tannins. It's young but already displays a great combination of structure and finesse.
Blue flower, ripe black fruit, black pepper and cedar are just some of the aromas offered by this blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Sagrantino. The palate features ripe black cherry, coffee, espresso, vanilla and grilled sage alongside bracing tannins. Drink after 2016.
Blue flower, ripe cherry, leather and cake spice aromas carry over to the palate along with velvety tannins. Reflecting the heat of the vintage, it's forward and evolved with soft acidity. Drink through 2019.
Blue flower, ripe plum and baking spice aromas lead the nose on this robust wine. The palate lacks fruit richness, offering dried black cherry, licorice, dark spice and searing alcohol alongside assertive, drying tannins.
Blue flower, ripe plum, baking spice and pine forest scents lead the nose. The palate is still tense and tightly drawn, showing tart sour cherry, star anise and a hint of espresso through flexed, fine-grained tannins that leave a firm finish. Drink after 2020.
Blue flower, ripe plum, vanilla, underbrush and leather aromas waft out of the glass. The palate delivers black cherry, coffee, toast, black pepper and clove alongside tightly-knit tannins. Drink 2015–2020.
Blue flower, sunbaked earth, Mediterranean brush and dark-skinned berry aromas lead the way on this easygoing red. The round, chewy palate offers juicy black cherry, raspberry jam and a white pepper note alongside rounded tannins. It's straightforward but savory and made to be enjoyed young.
Blue flower, sweet baking spices, ripe cherry and black raspberry sensations come together in this smooth, savory wine. Supple tannins and lively acidity support the juicy fruit palate.
Blue flower, tilled soil and dark-skinned berry aromas lead the nose along with a balsamic note. The fresh enjoyable palate offers ripe black cherry, black raspberry, crushed herb and anise alongside smooth tannins.
Blue flower, tilled soil and mature black berry aromas pour from the glass of this young Aglianico. The warm, forward palate doles out ripe black cherry, black pepper, espresso, licorice and toast alongside velvety tannins.
Blue flower, tilled soil and wild berry aromas lift out of the glass along with a breath of Mediterranean herb. The simple, easygoing palate offers unripe sour cherry and a hint of anise seed alongside fleeting tannins that give this a rather quick finish.
Blue flower, tilled soil, leather, blackberry, licorice and black pepper sensations all come together in this vibrant, straightforward Aglianico. The dense, juicy palate is framed by tightly woven, brooding tannins and a vein of mineral.
Blue flower, tilled soil, spicy plum and grilled herb aromas lead the nose on this medium-bodied, elegant wine. The vibrant, savory palate delivers crushed black cherry, mature blackberry, clove and thyme alongside firm but fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.
Blue flower, tilled soil, underbrush, tobacco and dried-cherry aromas waft from the glass of this single-vineyard bottling. The warm palate delivers raisin, prune, graphite, mocha, vanilla and a hint of orange peel alongside bracing tannins. The long finish closes on a mineral note.
Blue flower, truffle, underbrush and perfumed berry aromas lead the nose on this structured but elegant wine. Firm, polished tannins provide the framework for crushed Morello cherry, black raspberry, white pepper and menthol flavors. It delivers an enviable combination of structure and finesse. Drink 2016–2029.
Blue flower, wet earth and dark berry aromas lead the nose. The juicy palate offers blackberry, black cherry and a hint of white pepper alongside soft tannins and bright acidity. Drink soon.
Blue flower, wild berry and baking spice aromas unfold in the glass. The straightforward palate offers dried wild cherry, licorice and black pepper alongside ample, polished tannins. The fruit is drying up quickly so drink sooner rather than later.
Blue flower, wild berry, savory herb and menthol aromas lead the nose. The intense palate offers ripe wild cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and mineral alongside firm but fine tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2018–2028.
Blue flower, wild rose, perfumed berry and a balsamic note waft from the glass. Structured but graceful, the vibrant palate weaves together crunchy red cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper, licorice and cinnamon alongside firm but polished tannins. Tempting now but hold for complexity. Drink 2018–2030.
Blue flower, woodland berry, cake spice, menthol and a whisper of vineyard dust come together on the nose while the smooth, juicy, palate doles out ripe red cherry, crushed strawberry, star anise and cinnamon. It's a lovely wine, with polished, enveloping tannins and fresh acidity that provide an elegant, accessible structure.
Blue flowers, dark berry and allspice aromas unfold in the glass. The palate offers black currant, black cherry, peppercorn and espresso alongside drying, angular tannins.
Blue flowers, wild berries, leather, dried herb and tilled soil are just some of the aromas you'll find on this stunning wine, along with a balsamic note. Made entirely with Sangiovese, the smooth, structured palate delivers layers of black cherries, crushed raspberries, white pepper, clove, dried mint and sage inside a framework of velvety tannins. A tobacco note tops off the lingering finish. Enjoy through 2020.
Blue fruit and herb aromas are followed by full-bodied blue and purple-fruit flavors. The balance is spot-on and the finish lingers.
Blue fruit and high acidity open this delightful Pinot Noir, from a cool section of the Russian River Valley overlapping Green Valley. The oak imprint is low, yet the wine offers firm structure and elegance, remaining subdued and fresh on the palate in swirls of dark cherry, boysenberry and earthy leather.
Blue fruit character comes softly layered with exotic clove and cardamom scents in this elegantly light and vibrant wine. Given less time in oak than some of the producer's single-vineyard wines, it's focused and varietal, with a gravelly, complex finish.
Blue fruit stars in this juicily exuberant wine that shows upfront citrus, red cherry and a spark of campfire-like smoke. Its bristling acidity is balanced in a core of backbone-building tannin that gives it weight and depth.
Blue fruit, flower and light oxidative aromas lead to restrained fruit flavors that taper toward the finish.
Blue fruit, herbs and brown spices vie for attention. The palate brings lighter-styled yet still generous-feeling fruit flavors that linger.
Blue fruit, raspberry, violet, dark chocolate, green olive and spice aromas lead to ripe fruit and herb flavors that mix in plenty of smoked-meat notes, heightened a dazzling feel. A lengthy finish caps it off. It's an intriguing wine that keeps you coming back for more.
Blue iris, violet and wild berry aromas waft out of the glass of this pure expression of Sangiovese. The structured but still easy-drinking palate doles out juicy black cherry, clove, ground pepper and anise alongside firm, polished tannins. The warmth of alcohol closes the finish but doesn't throw off the balance.
Blueberries and black cherries meet with rose petals, dark chocolate, brown spice and black tea on the nose of this bottling from a historic vineyard. The mouthfeel is soft with creamy tannins that grow grippier across the sip, showing cedar, black-cherry mousse, baking spice and a tinge of acidity.
Blueberries and blackberries are the dominant themes here, with some smoky notes playing a supporting role. Bright, tart and fruity, this doesn’t appear to have the depth for aging. But it is an immensely attractive wine for early quaffing. There are some slightly drying tannins on the finish, so try it with rich or fatty foods for best effect.
Blueberries and purple fruits get distinct seasoning from maple syrup, licorice, crushed Italian herbs and minerality in this wine from the underappreciated Cuyama Valley. The palate is quite wound up, with blueberry, black lava rocks and unrelenting herb flavors just poking out. This will unwind very nicely, so drink 2018–2028.
Blueberries and spice—think baking spices and cracked pepper—mingle easily in this medium-bodied, velvety-textured Syrah. Vanilla oak makes an appearance as well, but overall the wine is savory, with ample spice and structure. Drink now–2020.
Blueberries, plums, and especially cherries, with a lovely, soft, beguiling bouquet of rose blossoms and chocolate. Crisply structured, with tight fruit, soft tannins, and a medium-weight, extended finish.
Blueberries, raspberry and bright fruit emerge immediately from the nose of this dark ruby, slightly purplish Barbera. The wine is chewy and bright in the mouth with raw fruit flavors and dark cherry on the close.
Blueberries, smoke and pepper-crusted beef aromas emerge on this solid offering. There's a lot happening on the palate, with flavors of tobacco, blackberries, dark plums and purple flowers, all grounded in tart plum-skin tannins.
Blueberry and blackberry aromas are spunky and a little earthy. A juicy, jammy palate is angular and fairly sharp. Wild berry flavors seem right off the bush, while this wine is tight and narrow on an acidic finish. Drink through 2023.
Blueberry and blackberry aromas fold in earthy notes, herbal spice and a pinch of Cabernet-related green. This feels full but crisp, with level acidity and minty, oaky flavors of carob and herbal raspberry. A short finish is fresh and lively.
Blueberry and boysenberry aromas are deep and slightly reduced in nature. This is a chunky, wide-bodied wine with wiry acidity and more power than elegance. Flavors of roasted, toasted black fruits finish blocky and with espresso-like bitterness.
Blueberry and boysenberry aromas blend with graham cracker and cardamon scents to give off an exotic nose. In the mouth, this is hard, narrow and tannic, with a grating overall feel and earthy, baked, limited flavors of blackberry and toast. A long, tannic finish is choppy in feel and monotone in flavor.
Blueberry and cardamom aromas rank as exotic and attractive. This has a rich, jammy, deep body that's easy on the palate. Flavors of blackberry, caramel and chocolate are rich and ripe, as is the finish, which has a meaty texture and a touch of youthful heat.
Blueberry and cassis aromas are jammy and suggest graham crackers. This feels tight and narrow, with strict tannins. As for flavors, look for baked berry, herb and earth notes the finish shows berry,  leather and carob notes.
Blueberry and cassis aromas come in front of a narrow, rubbery palate. Rubbery, earthy plum and dark-berry flavors end with grabby tannins and herbal, salty, briny notes.
Blueberry and cherry on the nose and palate of this medium-bodied red are cheerful and likeable, though overall the wine lacks dimension. An enticing wave of pepper and spice adds to the package. A Cabernet Franc with personality.
Blueberry and green-herb aromas give this Malbec-led blend a grassy bouquet. Jammy and chewy in the mouth, this tastes like raisin, molasses and herbal blueberry. Minty, herbal notes dominate the finish.
Blueberry and other sweet berry aromas are flowery but not very staunch or dark. The palate has a high acidity level and a scouring feel to go with tart, driving cherry and red plum flavors. Scratchy, zesty and crisp on the finish, with tight tannins that draw down.
Blueberry and pepper beckon on a broodingly dark and moody palate. They deliver with an even spicier, more lusciously berried palate of dense intensity, yet there is nothing heavy about this. There is a pleasant tannic grip and immense freshness. Elegance, spice, velvet and poise unite in this very bottle.
Blueberry and plum aromas are slightly exotic but also unusual and wayward. An easy feeling palate is medium in body and intensity, while woody flavors of herbal blueberry finish mild, with a persistent herbal aftertaste.
Blueberry and raspberry aromas are front and center along with a hint of animal hide. In the mouth, this is bullish, ripe and generous, with oak-rich flavors of vanilla, baked berry fruit and spice. Licorice, latent oak and heat work the finish on this ripe specimen. Among Chilean Syrahs, this is a perennial pack leader.
Blueberry and raspberry aromas are ripe, grapy and feature a dash of cocoa. This is lively, punchy and healthy in feel. Medicinal plum and berry flavors are a touch salty, while this finishes with ripeness and good overall balance.
Blueberry and red currant fruit flavors, augmented with streaks of gravel and pencil lead, give this Malbec a firm spine. The tannins are hard and firm, suggesting that more bottle age (or generous decanting) will open it up further.
Blueberry aromas come with an exotic note of cardamom. In the mouth, it feels flat, with rubbery tannins. Flavors of herbal berry and tomato leaf are briny and have a plastic-like taste, while herbal notes of oregano and tomato dominate the finish.
Blueberry compote, blackberry and dill-butter aromas are strung together with threads of raisin and medicinal mint. Integrated, medium-grained tannins and proportioned acids create an agile mouthfeel, although the flavors seem to drop out a bit on the midpalate.
Blueberry fruit mingles with cinnamon-tinged oak spice on the nose and palate of this offering. There's even enough depth and complexity to make it more than a simple quaff, worthy of washing down simply roasted chicken perhaps.
Blueberry fruit, purple flowers and licorice break through the very dense cloud of finely knit tannins that frame the entire experience of this best-of-house bottling. Dark-roast coffee beans and hints of blackberry fruit can be found once sipped, but this needs years to evolve. Luckily, it has the excellent tannins and bright acidity needed to do so.
Blueberry paste, chocolate cake and a touch of tar show on the nose of this wine, which clings to its aromas and doesn't let them escape easily. The palate is more showy, with purple flowers and grape candy flavors, framed by rather strong tannins. This will improve with a bit more time.
Blueberry pie, black plum, licorice and a touch of tobacco show on the inviting nose of this solid bottling from the Morgan Hill producer. The palate is very well integrated and delicious, with blackberry jam, vanilla cookies and strong espresso flavors, framed by sticky, prominent tannins.
Blueberry pie, vanilla ice cream, milk chocolate, licorice and caramel converge on the very inviting nose of this blend of 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Petit Verdot, 27% Merlot and 3% Malbec. Caramelized blackberries, anise, a touch of tar and bountiful acidity show on the sip.
Blueberry sauce and toasted vanilla notes are mild on the nose, with crushed blackberries and black pepper gracing the palate. Ample body and silk tannins make this Syrah approachable, easy and perfect for backyard barbeques.
Blueberry studded with white pepper meets gamy cured meat on the nose. The flavors are cracked pepper-driven bringing dark berries with a sanguine edge to a medium-to-full bodied palate. Textured tannins are held at bay by balanced acidity and carry to a dried meat finish.
Blueberry tops a hefty and robust foundation of vanilla syrup in this ripe wine, dusty in tannin and weighty on the long, oaky finish.
Blueberry with snap is the way to describe the bouquet on this fresh and spunky young Malbec. The flavors are sweet and intense, just like grapes off the vine. It doesn't offer much complexity but at the same time it doesn't taste confected or flawed in any way.
Blueberry, black cherry and red berries on the nose are followed by structured but slightly tart red fruit flavors on the palate.  Diverse spices and some oak add weight and balance the edge. The wine is generally food friendly and flavorful.
Blueberry, black plum, dark chocolate, coffee and a little asphalt show on the nose of this bottling. The palate is medium bodied and relatively straightforward, yet shows a depth of noticeable tannins and dark fruit flavors.
Blueberry, blackberry and boysenberry all abound on the nose and palate of this easy-pleasing and accessible wine. Fine tannins and medium acidity create an approachable structure, while hints of crushed violet and chocolate add richness to the finish.
Blueberry, blackberry and cherry on the nose are followed by integrated but sophisticated flavors of cherry, dark fruit and spice. A friendly, elegant wine with some aging potential; pair with venison, beef.
Blueberry, blackberry, black cherry and ground black pepper aromas lead the nose and carry through to the full-bodied palate together with notes of clove, tobacco and mint. It's balanced with firm, velvety tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2016–2019.
Blueberry, blackberry, black pepper and smoke swirl into a rather reserved and elegant nose on this bottling, one of the few Malbecs made in the mountainous region. There is great tannic tension to the acid-driven palate, with blackcurrant and dried-violet flavors adding to that blackcurrant and black-pepper base.
Blueberry, blackberry, smoke and white pepper unite to create a mysterious, almost brooding impression. This is still tightly coiled, but the flowing, silky-smooth palate with its slender poise and core of freshness suggest that with a little bottle age, this will emerge as a supremely elegant, subtly fruited wine. The finish turns away from darker fruit and ends on ripe, red cherry.
Blueberry, blackberry, toast, spice and tobacco aromas lead the nose on this blend of 50% Cabernet, 40% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot. The evolved palate offers prune, raisin, cocoa, espresso and cedar alongside fleeting tannins. Most of the fruit has dried up, giving it a lean quality.
Blueberry, chocolate, mint and clove aromas lead the nose of this blend of 50% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Franc and 15% Petit Verdot. The palate offers dried black cherries, coffee, cinnamon, black pepper and cocoa. Fine-grained tannins provide the framework.
Blueberry, citrus peel and licorice work the nose on this interesting but limited Malbec. The palate seems racier and more acidic than one might expect, with snappy black cherry and berry flavors. Oak rises up on the finish, leaving chocolate in spades. Has critical mass but only medium depth and complexity.
Blueberry, currant and smoky oak mark this wine, which provides additional highlights of black pepper and cedar. Generous in tannin and structure, this is the first vintage of this Karen Cakebread-made wine. It combines fruit from four vineyards across the valley, from Coombsville to Calistoga, including Shafer in Stags Leap. Drink now through 2022.
Blueberry, dark berries and tar swirl together on the nose of this hedonistic wine from Mike Sinor's Bassi Ranch property, located just 1.3 miles from the ocean at Shell Beach. It's rich, meaty and heavily spiced on the palate, with dark chocolate, cedar and plenty of blackberry, but the bitter and savory elements stop it short of being a fruit bomb.
Blueberry, dried lilac, crushed violet and black pepper form a classic nose on this Merlot-led Bordeaux blend from Paso Robles' celebrated Westside. The well-integrated, complex palate features fruit, herbs, spice and tar, as if each one plays back-to-back solos.
Blueberry, graham cracker and mild herbal notes define the nose on this high-altitude Malbec from Chile. The palate is rich and a bit zingy, with jammy density and mountainous flavors of boysenberry, blueberry and toast. A pure and zesty finish is the right ending to this dark, lusty Malbec.
Blueberry, grapeseed, leather, cigar box and concentrated lavender combine for an elegantly intriguing nose on this bottling from a winery between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The palate is fresh and rather light, with plums, figs, crushed peppercorns and a forest floor/pine needle intrigue.
Blueberry, pepper and cedar aromas and flavors dominate in this structured, elegant red. The wine finishes long with spice and dark cherry notes. A collectible wine that will pair well with poultry, game.
Blueberry, plum and cardamom aromas include a whiff of wood smoke. A balanced palate has energy along with brambly berry and chocolate flavors. A chewy, solid finish is good but less lively than the palate.
Blueberry, plum cake, mocha, vanilla and sweet pipe tobacco aromas jump from the glass of this mature, structured wine. On the palate, notes of cinnamon and anisette back up primary flavors of dried black cherry and blackberry. Thanks to its smooth tannins, this would be nice to sip after dinner in front of the fire.
Blueberry, prune and beet aromas are mulchy and fail to improve with airing. The palate is medium in size and jammy, with green herb and leafy, stemmy berry flavors. There's a burning feel to the finish.
Blueberry, sage and vanilla swirl into an admirable nose on this wine from a property far up the Santa Ynez River valley. There is distinct tar on the palate, like other wines from the property, with smashed black cherry fruit and tobacco herbaceousness present as well.
Blueberry, savory plum and lemony oak are the key aromas on this firmly structured RDD. Flavors of blackened toast, blackberry, pepper and creamy oak finish pure, strong and long, with mint, licorice and chocolaty residual notes. Drink through 2022.
Blueberry, spices, fruitcake, even a maple syrup note mark the nose of this fairly sweet Zinfandel. The somewhat candied quality to the berry fruit was not favored by all tasters, but the plush yet structured mouthfeel has significant appeal. Dark sweet-tart fruit and moderate, even tannins work together to provide a positive finish.
Blueberry, vanilla and caramel pop on the nose of this wine from the pioneering brand that is now owned by Bill Foley. Soft yet dense tannins and a plush mouthfeel ensue once sipped, with elderberry, bay leaf and fresh herbs showing on the tightly structured palate.
Blueberry, vanilla and cedar aromas start this rich, luxuriant red. On the palate, savory cigarbox and caramel flavors meld with bright red fruits and sweet vanilla. The wine finishes dry and will pair beautifully with lamb and beef dishes.
Blueberry, violet and nutmeg aromas take center stage. On the balanced palate, vanilla and dark baking spice underscore black cherry and cassis while dusty tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2018.
Blueberry, wet tobacco, charred beef, cedar and a touch of dried herbs show on the nose of this bottling. There is tons of acidity on the palate, where dense and dark purple fruits meet with cocoa dust, incense and woody spice, culiminating in a long finish.
Blurred edges characterize the non-distinct apple fruit. The palate has edges of bitterness that the residual sugar cannot masks.
Blush wines from Pinot Noir can be all over the map. But this one lands squarely on the dry, balanced side, offering crisp flavors of cherries, rose petals, orange tea, cloves and cinnamon. Superversatile with a wide range of foods, it's a good by-the-glass wine for restaurants.
Boasting a beautiful ruby red color, this cool-climate Grenache offers aromas of red and pink roses, with blackberry juice down the middle and a lithe, near-citrus freshness on the edges. It's very spicy once sipped, with the blackberry juice and sharper citrus present again. Would be great with blue cheese burgers.
Boasting a rustic charm, this opens with earthy aromas of sunbaked soil, game, leather and black-skinned fruit. The gamy note carries over to the ripe palate along with hints of Mediterrenean brush, star anise and white pepper that accent a blackberry core. Chewy tannins provide the framework.
Boasting aromas of sous bois, damp moss and mocha, this medium-bodied wine presents a pleasant blend of savory flavors, heavily underscored by tart, lemony acids. It's very crisp, which slightly limits its pleasure.
Boasting both firm structure and smooth texture, this creamy white wine from the northeast of Italy can be paired with a long list of Mediterranean foods. Aromas include peach, white pear and almond blossom.
Boasting cherry-vanilla cola and ripe fruit notes, this is a young, fresh wine that shows hints of savory tones on the palate. Drink now.
Boasting lovely depth and great complexity, this iconic bottling opens with scents of toasted hazelnut, exotic fruit, baking spice and a balsamic note. The creamy, elegantly structured palate offers nectarine zest, ripe golden apple, pastry cream, roasted nut and a honey note alongside an ultrafine perlage.
Boasting notes of dried flowers and herbs in its bouquet, this is a silky, elegant rendition of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. There's a sense of wet-stone minerality, along with notes of dried black fruit and dark chocolate. Licorice comes through on the lengthy finish.
Boasting one of the prettiest hot pink-meets-purple colors imaginable in wine, this offers aromas of freeze-dried strawberries, ripe raspberry and a bitter tinge of pink grapefruit and cranberry. The flavors reflect those aromas exactly, particularly the raspberry fruit.
Boasting structure and elegance, this opens with earthy aromas of tilled soil, underbrush, woodland berry and a whiff of leather. The succulent palate shows juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, white baking spice and chopped mint alongside firm, polished tannins. A pipe tobacco accent signals the close.
Boasting weight and some richness, the wine shows that the northern Beaujolais crus are the most successful in 2010. The cherry and sweet plum flavors are laced with ripe acidity as well as a mineral edge.
Boasts a huge nose of blackberries and vanilla, with hints of blueberries and tobacco. The flavors capture the essence of Port in their untamed, effusive berry flavors, but in a balanced, dry wine. Firm tannins suggest cellaring 3–5 years.
Boasts a reasonably complex bouquet of chocolate, cedar and weedy cassis, followed by a mellow, soft palate impression. The fruit is sweet and direct, just the kind of thing that would hit the spot with an impromptu meal of steak frites. No, there's not a lot of structure, but why age a wine that's so clearly made for immediate gratification?
Boasts fascinating aromas of caramel, soy sauce and meats, with only a small dash of strawberries. This is an assertively flavored Champagne that would shine with game or red meats; it’s not a great sipper on its own.
Boasts penetrating grapefruit aromas but also some warm, peachy accents. On the palate, its stony and minerally flavors play against a richly textured mouthfeel. The long, delicate finish shows hints of pepper and grapefruit.
Boasts plenty of buttery tropical fruit set off by aromas of toast and smoke, then shines in the mouth, where the mouthfeel is custardy but not heavy and the fruit flavors shine. Finishes long and tart, seamlessly turning citrusy along the way.
Boasts pristine if somewhat one-dimensional fruit aromas of green apples and limes and the flavors follow a similar pattern. It's sweet yet tart, showing decent balance in a lemonade-like way. A lawnmower wine, refreshing but simple.
Boasts slightly oily rose and lychee scents that leave no doubt as to what grape variety you are smelling. This is a big-boned wine with a healthy alcohol level, but one wishes for more persistence on the finish.
Boasts some interesting flavors of graphite or slate, and mineral oil, which complement its pear and kumquat aromas. Could use more focus and length, but certainly pleasant; chilling it well will make it seem firmer.
Boasts tremendously ripe fruit—the stated alcohol level is 15.5%—yet doesn't seem overly hot or bulky. As you might expect, the tannins are soft, while the flavors of cassis pick up hints of cola, earth and tobacco. Despite the ripeness, there's a streak of tangy acidity that holds everything together. Drink now.
Bob's is the producer's estate vineyard, acquired in 2014, a foggy site near the Petaluma Gap. Here, it allows for fleshy flavors of pear, brioche and honey, offering ripeness within a classic structure of minerality. Intense in tension and body, it has a dark color and a lingering tease of honeycomb.
Bob Betz calls this his first-ever “reserve style” wine from Bordeaux varieties. It started with a single barrel of Red Willow Cabernet Franc and evolved into this six-barrel blend. Le Parrain opens with whiffs of smoke, gun metal and rock weaving through the dense red fruits. Pipe tobacco and licorice flavors come into play from the barrel aging. As the wine slowly opens, the flavors expand and blend, and the textural quality that Betz refers to expresses itself in a graceful, three-dimensional finish.
Bob Betz continues to refine his Bordeaux blends. This new Clos de Betz is much more forward than the monumental Père de Famille and sports ripe, dark, round, appealing fruit flavors of luscious raspberry and cassis, swathed in beaucoup de barrel. Toasty oak dissolves into polished tannins, finishing with black tea, licorice, smoke and charcoal.
Bob Lindquist's bread-and-butter bottling does not disappoint, especially for the price point, with voluptuous aromas of black cherry, blackberry, smoke, soy and mocha. The palate is medium weight, with beef char, dark chocolate fudge, dark boysenberry, lifted with violets and lilacs, and finishing on ganache.
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.
Bob Lindquist may be the only winemaker in California who knows how to make Marsanne in a compelling way, and his only grow more fascinating with each passing vintage. This shows dried apple, light melon, sweet chamomile and tangy lime juice on the nose. Racy acidity and tactile tension show on the palate, with light stone fruit and citrus flavors that will intensify with time in bottle. Drink 2018–2030.
Bob Lindquist shows his mastery of cool-climate fruit with this bottling, which is redolent of asphalt, cracked black pepper, rosemary, lavender and damson plum. It's fairly light in body but strong in tarry structure, offering loads of cracked peppercorn flavor with its juicy purple fruit.
Bob Tillman and his daughter, Maggie, run this winery in a hands-on way. This thick, viscous wine offers hearty cherry and baked black plum mixed with black spice, roast beef and espresso on the nose. The lush palate shows more cooked purple fruit and intense black-cherry syrup along with concentrated lavender flowers and strong acidity.
Bocara is a simple rendition of the Garganega grape that shows easy lines and bright tones of lemon rind, tangerine skin and honeydew melon. There's a fatty, or waxy element to the mouthfeel that is followed by bright acidity.
Boedecker's Athena bottling is a very pretty wine, with a lovely entry offering pure, inviting cherry and berry fruit. Once in the mouth, it gently fades, just slightly disappointing as it seems to lose strength rather than gaining it. But the first impression is charming and delicious.
Bogle's knack for producing value wines shows again in this crisp, flavorful Riesling. It's a little sweet, with orange, mango and vanilla flavors balanced by zesty acidity.
Boheme follows up a successful 2009 vintage of this wine with a 2010 that's also quite good, although not perhaps as opulent. The color is translucent in ruby and garnet, suggesting the wine's delicacy. Grown in the Sebastopol part of the southwest valley, the wine brims in ripe, savory raspberries, persimmons and oak, with precocious acidity that makes the mouth water. Give it until 2018–2019 in the cellar.
Boiled down to simplistic and rustic terms, this amabile (or sweet) Lambrusco opens with sweet cherry, blueberry and thick purple foam that rises high in the glass.
Boisterous and juicy with blackberry-pie aromas on the nose, touched by caramel, milk chocolate and some lilac, this is a porch-pounding, crowd-pleasing red wine. Cola and black-cherry juice pop on the palate, which is hedonistically pleasing although not too complex.
Boisterous black plum and blackberry aromas properly announce an extra grabby palate with rock-hard tannins. This tastes like roasted plum, cassis and blackened spices. Tannic and dry as a bone on the finish, with a savory note.
Boisterous blueberry, black cherry and black-currant aromas make for a hedonistic nose on this bottling that also offers a sultry line of cocoa, espresso and clove spice. The palate shows similar layering, from black-cherry compote to herbs to black olives, proving unique overall.
Boisterous floral notes on the nose lead to a palate that's chock-full of penetrating mango, yellow peach and melon flavors. Not quite dry as labeled, but it's delightfully quaffable with sprightly tangerine-tinged acidity.
Boisterous flower and tropical fruit aromas make for a big bouquet that penetrates deeply into the ripe, fruity palate. This is surprisingly balanced in body and alcohol for a wine with such bold presence. It finishes long, with hints of ginger, black tea and pleasantly bitter phenolics.
Boisterous fruit shows on the nose of this wine from the heart of the newish appellation, presented in a specially made Ballard Canyon bottle. Olallieberry jam gains nuance from pulverized purple flowers. The palate begins with straightforward purple fruits then evolves into potpourri, incense and dried berries.
Boisterously fruity and aromatic, this full-bodied white offers a bounty of luscious peach, pineapple and mango flavors. It's voluptuously ripe yet briskly balanced, finishing on a crisp mineral tone. Drink now through 2018 to capture the essence of its fresh, fruity style.
Boizel is one of those enlightened producers that indicates the date of disgorgement—and therefore how fresh the wine is likely to be—on its nonvintage bottlings. This Brut, from an April 2014 disgorgement, is an attractively fruity wine with fresh acidity, ripe red apples and a light, bright aftertaste. Drink now.
Bokisch's 100% Monastrell is brooding with dark fruit—black cherries, currants and blackberries. It shows a cinnamon-swirled earth note and a layer of herb, with medium body. As such, it would be a beautiful wine with roasted meats like lamb or chicken that are swaddled in herbs or anise. The tannins are soft but structured enough to age.
Bokisch has made a Tempranillo that's relatively light in body, bursting with an earthy tobacco tone, with a backbone of leather. The palate feels velvety, with soft but structured tannins, bearing black cherry and dark chocolate flavors. This has to be one of California's best Tempranillos.
Bold and beautiful, this elegant expression of Barolo delivers impressive intensity and personality. There's great complexity here in the form of cola, black fruit, licorice, cedar and cured meat aromas. Ripe concentration and plush fruit flavors help balance out the tight tannins.
Bold and beautiful, this powerful Zin has a deep, dark color that's practically black but with a brilliant ruby rim. Brooding aromas suggest wood smoke, black pepper and boysenberry. There is an impressive density in texture, as firm tannins and acidity support the rich array of flavors.
Bold and black with impenetrable thickness and inky tones of blackberry, smoked ham and peppercorn, this is a dense and opulent wine that shows the best of sunny Sicily with spicy overtones and a thick, full feel.
Bold and brawny, the Palmer Merlot offers up convincing scents of mulberries and vanilla backed up by a palate that's both juicy and gripping. Cherry, fall leaves and plum pudding flavors characterize the medium finish. Drink now or hold a few years for finer tannins.
Bold and brawny, this opens with aromas of pressed violet, dried plum and a whiff of cake spice. The full-bodied palate doles out brandied black cherry, licorice, black pepper and nutmeg alongside tightly knit, fine-grained tannins.
Bold and brawny, this voluptuous red floods the palate with ruddy, ripe flavors of black cherries and plums. It's plush and fleshy in mouthfeel, but its juicy, rich demeanor is intoxicating. A dusty mineral tone lends elegance to the finish.
Bold and brawny, vibrant and intense, this is a hearty wine with hickory tones, smoked bacon, loads of fresh cherry and shadings of black peppercorn and spice. It imparts a velvety texture in the mouth thanks to solid tannins and closes with a sour note that recalls sour cherry.
Bold and chewy, this has slightly overdone notes of ripe berry, spice and moist pipe tobacco. There's a tiny touch of jammy strawberry or raspberry as well.
Bold and chunky Ribera wine with black fruit aromas that don't tread lightly. The palate is lush and features a nice overall feel, while the flavors of berry fruit and chocolate hint at raisin but don't fully cross the threshhold. Heavier and darker than prior years. Drink now.
Bold and concentrated yet not at all blousy, this full-figured dry Riesling showcases ripe, luscious stone fruit and tropical-fruit flavors anchored by a throbbing vein of minerality. It's rich and silken in texture, vibrantly high toned in acidity and penetrates through a long, lime-scented finish. Drink now through 2030.
Bold and dark, this brawny wine shows beautifully evolved aromas of cured meat, leather, tar, cola and resin backed by candied fruit, pomegranate and crème de cassis. That extra muscle helps support the sharpness of the acidity, and plays a promising role in the wine's overall aging potential. Hold 5–10 years.
Bold and delicious, this opens with earthy aromas of mature black-skinned fruit, truffle, scorched earth and a whiff of game. The savory, full-bodied palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, licorice, and baking spice alongside bright acidity and refined tannins.
Bold and densely concentrated, this fantastic single-vineyard Cabernet Franc is laden with ripe black fruit, yet it's balanced by hints of cracked pepper, fresh herb and a gorgeous note of violet- and rose-petal spray. Persistent on the palate, it finishes strong with a murmur of velvety tannins and an umami-laden hoisin note.
Bold and earthy wine, with aromas of fine rubber, balsam wood, forest floor, spice and ripe black fruit. It's thick as it rolls over the palate, and the wild berry, herb and pepper flavors fit the wine's physique and profile. Long and fairly deep on the finish; drink now through 2011.
Bold and effusive in flavor, this full-bodied red gives ripe, concentrated, focused fruit flavors that recall boysenberry and blackberry. Tannins create that grippy, dry sensation that tames big slabs of meat. An attractive take on a traditional Spanish grape variety; drink now.
Bold and elegant at the same time. Packs a powerful punch in a silk glove. Intense aromas of ripe fruit, spice, cherry liqueur, cola, dried sage and cigar box. The mouthfeel is pristine and structured, with a precise, tonic and streamlined impact.
Bold and flavorful without feeling overtly ripe or sweet, this wine has a lot to say. It's complex and spicy, smelling of cardamom, nutmeg and rosemary—a possible result of its 25% whole-cluster fermentation. Red cherry, rhubarb and pomegranate flavors are bracing and fresh, while the texture is firm and moderately tannic. It's cellarable and will be best after 2018.
Bold and flavorful, this smells both fruity and spicy, and tastes ripe and assertive. Hefty tannins help balance out a touch of sweetness as plum, strawberry and cherry flavors ooze over the palate and linger on the finish.
Bold and forward, this estate-grown Syrah fairly explodes with scents of game, cured meat and smoke. The black cherry and cassis fruit forms a dense and sappy core; as the wine skips across the tongue nuances of tobacco, sweet leather, chocolate and spices come into play. It just keeps on going, adding caramel and peppery chocolate through an evolving and satisfying finish.
Bold and fruity, this is a black-currant-flavored wine with soft tannins. In this vintage, the crisp acidity has also kicked in to give the wine its lift and to balance the ripe flavors. The wine is for the medium term. Drink from 2021.
Bold and fruity, this is laden with bitter cherry and juicy plum flavors. The tannins are light and attractive, with juicy, refreshing acidity. Age this for a few more months.
Bold and fruity, this is packed with cherries as well as acidity. A plum skin texture gives structure to this still closed-up wine. Wait until 2015.
Bold and fruity, this ripe wine has rich black fruits that are still tied to young tannins. A ripeness to the fruit will allow the wine to age, with tannins softening and filling out. Drink from 2017.
Bold and fruity, this ripe, smoky wine has red berry and blackberry fruit flavors cut with acidity. This blend is smooth in texture, with a full, rich fruitiness on the palate. It will age further, although the wine is ready to drink now.
Bold and fruity, this runs through a spectrum from tart lemon to ripe pineapple to hints of something riper and sweeter, like banana or papaya. A good alternative to Chardonnay for those who favor fruit over oak.
Bold and fruity, this saignée-style rosé is 75% Syrah and 25% Pinot Noir. Tart, tangy, primary fruit flavors of watermelon, strawberry and cranberry fill the mouth, turning just a little bit sour in the finish.
Bold and fruity, this wine is rich with smooth tannins and a fine ripe texture. Powered by its structure and its dark fruits, it is a wine for serious aging. Drink from 2022.
Bold and fruity, this wine shows the richness of the black fruits. It has fruit tannins, a lush texture and a dry core. With its density and its ripe fruit, it could age further. Drink from 2018.
Bold and full-bodied, this opens with aromas of mature berry, eucalyptus, baking spice and a balsamic note. The powerful palate doles out ripe black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice, menthol, mint, clove and pipe tobacco. Closely-knit, polished tannins provide support and an almost velvety texture. It boasts muscle and finesse.
Bold and full bodied, packed with ripe blackberry, dark chocolate and spice flavors, this wine is also mouth-coating due to fine, soft tannins and a hint of sweetness. It will be fun for people who enjoy drama in their wine, but needs to be tamed by a juicy steak or the equivalent.
Bold and full bodied, this offers aromas of steeped plum, prune, clove and blue flower. The concentrated, savory palate doles out mature blackberry, raisin, clove and licorice. Big but velvety tannins and just enough freshness give this a surprisingly drinkable quality that belies its heft.
Bold and full bodied, this opens with rather subtle aromas of chopped herb, dark-skinned berry and a whiff of star anise. The ripe palate is more expressive, doling out black raspberry, juicy morello cherry and baking spice set against a backbone of noble tannins.
Bold and generous, this has deep aromatic layers and pulpy dark fruit. The bouquet is redolent of dark cherry, cinnamon, cola, ginger and teriyaki sauce.
Bold and gold, with penetrating aromas of orange, dried apricots, sweat and honey comb. The feel is rich and layered, with just enough acidity to lend volume to the apricot, dried peach and honey flavors this late-harvest Chardonnay is pushing. Thick and a bit unctuous on the finish; drink now.
Bold and juicy, this is a ripe, forward wine. With red berry fruits prominent, it conveys attractive fruitiness. Tannins in the background suggest medium-term aging. Drink from 2016.
Bold and modern in style, this blend of Merlot and Syrah shows ripe fruit and blackberry, with soft endnotes of leather and chocolate.
Bold and modern, Fonterutoli delivers the goods year after year. The wine is rich and plush with deep concentration and excellent intensity. You'll get aromas of bright cherry and some spice but what makes the wine stand apart is the clarity and purity of its aromas.
Bold and nicely astringent, this wine is full bodied, rich in flavor and even richer in texture due to a thick layer of fine tannins. Built almost like a Cabernet but with brighter fruit flavors, the wine is attractively dry and meant to be enjoyed with something rich like a roast or steak.
Bold and powerful, marked by assertive toasty, cedary aromas from oak, it has a deep color, tight tannins and full body. It shows smoky oak character and almost drying tannins, but the dark cherry and blackberry flavors lie just under the surface, forming the density of an outstanding wine. Drink after 2016.
Bold and pretty at the same time, this has oodles of crushed berry aromas. Ripe fruit flavors that recall black cherry and boysenberry come with hints of toasted oak and a silky smooth texture. It's full bodied but not too stiff or tannic, just concentrated and almost sweet in its richness.
Bold and pruney, with herbal, soft, ultraripe aromas in front of a jumpy yet partially stewed palate. This blend of Malbec with Bonarda and Syrah is your typical huge, tannic bruiser with big extract, huge tannins and just enough acidity to keep it pumping. Pretty good and perfectly drinkable, but a little over the edge.
Bold and pungent, defined by passion fruit and green onion, this is a medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc that packs a fruit-driven punch. White grapefruit fills in the gaps, finishing long and intense.
Bold and red on the nose, with only mild herbal aromas. That slight herbal character extends to the palate, where red plum and red currant flavors take over. With adequate size and plenty of fuel in the tank, this is no wallflower of a wine. But it is a bit limited and tangy, and the acidity seems amplified.
Bold and rich by 2005 Barolo standards, Bricco Visette offers a bright embroidery of berry, spice, oak and tobacco aromas. Firm tannins support the wine at the back end and will help it age gracefully for the next ten years or more.
Bold and rich without feeling heavy, this luscious wine oozes with ripe blackberry and boysenberry fruit and has a mouth-coating, mouth-filling texture that keeps its flavors echoing through the finish. Occasio makes exceptional wines in small quantities.
Bold and rich, this opens with aromas of baked plum, pressed blue flower, nutmeg and a confectionary note. The ample palate doles out high-toned black-skinned fruit, cocoa, cinnamon and sweet pipe tobacco supported by velvety tannins and uplifted by fresh acidity. It's opulent, but also balanced and poised.
Bold and rich, this wine has plenty of tannins to allow it to age, and equally generous ripe black-plum fruits to make it attractive now. Solid and firm, the wine is already drinkable with its juicy fruitiness, or age until 2020.
Bold and ripe in cherry jam flavors. Oak brings buttered toast to the mix. Delicious and savory, this Pinot is solidly in the ripe California style of forward fruit and immediate flash. Drink now and through 2014.
Bold and ripe in taste, this full-bodied wine packs in plump blackberry and boysenberry flavors, a rich texture from firm tannins and lip-smacking acidity that keeps it lively. Slow-cooked ribs, anyone?
Bold and ripe, this is a rich wine. It has great red-cherry and berry fruits that are filled out by the dry core of tannins. It comes from a vineyard that is close to the premier crus of Beaune and it has something of the extra structure and texture of that appellation. That means it will need to age. Drink from 2022.
Bold and ripe, this offers aromas of crushed blue flower, ripe plum, mocha and exotic spice. The opulent, firmly structured palate doles out black cherry, blackberry jam, licorice, oak and a hint of coconut alongside tightly knit, fine-grained tannins.
Bold and ripe, this tastes almost sweet due to the aroma and flavor of cherries and vanilla. It is full-bodied, fat in texture and carries heat on the finish. It matured in 40% new oak barrels.
Bold and saturated to the eye, with black fruit, olive and other slightly herbal aromas. But where this wine loses points is in the mouth. It's sharp and overtly acidic, which makes the cola and cherry flavors ring and seem tangy. Thus it finishes short and scouring.
Bold and savory, it delivers black cherry, violet, and baking spice aromas with a whiff of espresso. The palate is still a bit austere, but offers up juicy black cherry, raspberry, sage and licorice alongside solid, assertive tannins. Don't even attempt this before 2020, but it will blossom into a beauty.
Bold and savory, it has intriguing aromas of grass, dried hay, stone fruit and dill. The rich, warm palate delivers yellow peach, candied ginger and grapefruit accented with sage and a vanilla note.
Bold and smoky, this offers tart, tight cherry and brambly berry fruit. The juicy acidity is counterpointed with a certain chalkiness. A whiff of truffle further complements the fruit. It's a sleek wine with surprising power.
Bold and spicy, this dry wine is saturated with toasty oak and vanilla flavors over plum and prune. Made from mostly Petite Sirah and Syrah, it has medium body and a smooth texture.
Bold and spicy, this is a soft, round wine. It is ripe with berry fruits and crisp with acidity. While it only hints at the structure of Touriga Nacional it does have a rich, warm character that makes it ready to drink now.
Bold and spicy, this vineyard selection impresses with dusty tangy red and purple fruits. They are elevated with pineapple and citrus flavors from supporting acidity. The length and complexity are excellent, as is the entire lineup of 2014 Pinots from J. Christopher.
Bold and spicy, with a lot of cinnamon, licorice and toasty aromas. Quite intense in the mouth, where black cherry, toast and vanilla flavors lead the charge. The finish is tangy and long, with coffee and citrus accents coming along late in the game. Made from whole berries fermented in open-top vats.
Bold and striking aromas of mushroom, seaweed and organic funk set this apart from the other Ken Wright vineyard designates. There's plenty of tart, tangy cherry fruit also, though it seems to hit a wall, perhaps due to the recent bottling. This is a wine that could score even higher with additional bottle age.
Bold and structured, this is fragrant of yellow rose, stone fruit and honeydew. The wine's creamy finish delivers a bold, chewy softness.
Bold and structured, this opens with aromas of spiced plum, French oak, menthol and a whiff of violet. The concentrated, full-bodied palate doles out blackberry jam, juicy black cherry, vanilla, licorice and exotic spice alongside fine-grained tannins.
Bold and substantial, this full-bodied and firmly tannic wine has a good core of ripe black berry and black cherry trimmed with lighter cinnamon and vanilla notes from oak. It's very attractive in a firm, palate-gripping way.
Bold and unconventional, there's nothing quite like this late-harvest wine. Made from Sémillon grapes left to ripen and shrivel through midwinter, it's deeply concentrated with dried mango and orange-peel flavors. Fermentation via natural yeast on its skins lends a deeply phenolic astringency to the palate. It's dusty and mineral with a sherried aldehydic character attributable to deliberate oxidation in barrels, yet somehow, it maintains a luminous core of fresh fruit. A curious and thought-provoking wine for the adventurous wine lover.
Bold and velvety, this delivers savory sensations of black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and dried Mediterranean herbs. You'll also detect a hint of alcohol on the warm midpalate.
Bold and very clumsy. There are leathery elements to the nose and wild, grapy fruit that stumbles onto the palate. A wall of tannins hits you on the finish, and throughout it's untamed and overdone. Very fruity and forward, but devoid of tact.
Bold and very ripe in flavor, but also soft in texture, this wine is packed with blackberry, boysenberry and fig notes. It seems slightly sweet on the palate and finishes with a jammy touch. While full-bodied, it's smooth and easy to sip.
Bold and very woody, this full-bodied wine takes charred oak, pine needle and aromatic cedar aromas through to ripe plum, licorice and black-cherry flavors. It stays smooth in texture, with a layer of fine tannins but otherwise is soft in mouthfeel.
Bold aromas and generous but sophisticated flavors shape a rich tasting experience in this full-bodied, buttery wine. Aromas resemble nutmeg and ripe pear, while the flavors are like lively green apple. The texture is both smooth and crisp at the same time, and the long finish denotes quality.
Bold aromas of black plum, licorice and chocolate mark the nose, with accents of turmeric and dried herb adding interest. This medium- to full-bodied Bordeaux-style red blend is confident and muscular, bearing toasty and chocolaty flavors. The finish is warm, structured and enduring.
Bold aromas of bread dough and strong flavors of herbs and stewed fruit flavors compete for attention. This wine is medium bodied, smooth in texture and rustic in flavor.
Bold aromas of cola, forest floor and minty blackberry lead to a muscle-bound palate that's more ripe and saturated than outright hard. Oaky, chocolaty berry flavors are dense, while oak-based flavors of maple and woodspice take over on the finish.
Bold aromas of mint, spice and smoky cherry and plum lead to a full, fair and honest palate with choppy tannins. Toasty, minty, oak-heavy flavors of black plum, black currant, herbs and spice finish with good length and character. Drink through 2019.
Bold aromas of tire rubber, black cherry, blackberry and stewed plum are integrated and attractive. A full, lively, rich palate offers briny black-plum and blackberry flavors in front of a creamy, salty, exuberant finish. Drink through 2018.
Bold aromas of undergrowth, maduro, fruitcake and blackberry lead onto the full-bodied, assertive palate. This Bordeaux-style blend has a substantial amount of brawny tannins that crave to be paired with a hearty slab of grilled meat. The finish remains highly structured, ending on notes of espresso and dark fruit.
Bold aromas, thick layers of fruit flavor, and a supple but steely texture of fine tannins and acidity add up to a powerful and complex wine that should improve with age. Pure, dark-fruit flavors are accented by smoke and cardamom while the structure is mouthpuckering with astringency but softened by the richness of body and fruit. Best after 2019.
Bold as always, with a ton of cedar, graphite, blackberry, vanilla and coconut notes on the nose. This is huge, tough and ripe, with massive blackberry, café mocha and vanilla flavors. It finishes hard but with a cascade of sweet fruit, marshmallow, coconut cake, herb and vanilla. Needs a few more years to settle. Drink after 2013.
Bold berry and black-cherry aromas come with equal amounts of overt oak and coconut scents. This has hard but manageable tannins that create a powerful but rocky mouthfeel. Flavors of coconut, vanilla, blackberry and chocolate finish with firm, dry tannins, fresh acidity and a lasting mocha flavor. Drink through 2022.
Bold berry and earth aromas are the lead in to this well-structured, honest Ribera red. It's a bit tannic and rough now, but solidly built, with black fruit, minty spice and peppery flavors. The finish is dry, fairly oaky and long enough to show modest complexity. Drink now–2015.
Bold berry aromas charge forth in a clean, pointed fashion. This feels firm and solid, with no obvious flaws and a dark flavor of blackberry that's offset by notes of rooty licorice and sweet brown sugar. Lengthy and fresh on the finish.
Bold berry fruit, mint, shoe polish and creamy oak aromas are present on the nose of this full, plump, fairly tannic Malbec. Flavors of ripe blackberry, spice and raw oak finish toasty and pure, with good length and clarity.
Bold berry, herb and olive aromas seem typically Chilean. This Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend, with 17% Petit Verdot, is round but firm, with superb structure and potency. Flavors of baking spices, herbs and rooty black fruits finish long, smooth and oaky. This is a sexy, polished, dark-tinted wine to drink through 2022.
Bold berry, leather and rubbery aromas show a minerally side. This is a big Malbec-driven blend with nice layering and structure. The flavor profile features reduced, roasted black-fruit flavors along with hints of herbs and leaf. The finish is generally smooth and long, with a pinch of heat. Drink through 2017.
Bold black-fruit aromas are pure and inviting. ?Overall, this blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is flush in feel, balanced and full of wild berry ?and plum flavors. On the finish, fully present acidity ?supports oak and chocolaty notes. This an exemplary ?large-production Spanish red.
Bold blackberry and cola aromas work the nose on this bold, muscular Malbec-Syrah blend. But just when your expectations are at their highest, the palate doesn't quite meet expectations with its angular acidity and sharp-edged feel. The fruit is here, and with it the aromas and flavors. But moutfeel and balance are thin and piercing.
Bold blueberry notes are bolstered by aromatic hints of cinnamon and make for a juicy, fleshy nose and palate. It seems like this wine has juicy, berry-ish fun written all over its smooth, easy body. Drink now.
Bold boysenberry flavors and a broad, juicy texture make this full-bodied wine appealing and easy to enjoy. The texture is moderately tannic and everything tastes well proportioned.
Bold brush strokes characterize this wine, the fruit a complex mélange of red berries, acidity and weight. The wine has good density, offering a strawberry jam character to go with the fresh edge. Tannins are enveloped in the fruits, promising medium-term aging.
Bold but also harmonious, this full-bodied, dry wine blends dark fruit flavors with mild spice and chocolate notes for a mouth-filling, palate-pleasing and attractively complex personality. Extra bottle age helps it bring together several flavor threads that are fun to pick out.
Bold but not too full bodied, this dry wine made from Syrah and Malbec has vivid, grapey, dark-fruit aromas and flavors liberally accented with spicy, smoky, earthy accents. Laden with fine tannins, the texture conveys a thick but smooth mouthfeel.
Bold but sophisticated, this has classic, concentrated Napa aromas and flavors. A luscious, velvety mouthfeel through to a lingering finish. The aroma combines cedar and spice-rack notes with fresh berries and black currants. Flavors are influenced by suave, spicy oak accents that weave in and out of the compelling ripe fruit. It's beautiful to drink now, but will improve through at least 2022.
Bold center-cut oak aromas are lemony and resiny, while notes of coconut and vanilla are present along with cassis and plum scents. A saturated palate is full of power and energy. Flavors are heavily oak influenced, meaning mocha and coffee notes are as prominent as plum and berry fruit. Drink this serious Malbec through 2023.
Bold cherry and berry notes show herbal, reedy nuances, with a palate that's deep and tight as nails. Flavors of toast, chocolate and spice ride on a core of dark berry, and the finish is equally toasty and chocolaty, but also a tad hot.
Bold cherry, cassis and plum aromas are forward, lively and a touch aggressive. In the mouth, this shows lots of life and generous fruit supported by clamp-down tannins. Earthy, loamy flavors of plum and berry finish warm, earthy and long. Overall, this is more steady, balanced and solid than flashy. Drink through 2017.
Bold flavors and a graceful mouthfeel come together in this classic, complex and well-balanced red, made from 71% Zinfandel with other traditional California varieties. The blackberry, sage and ever-so-slightly earthy aromas continue through the flavors, where they interlace with firm tannins and supportive acidity. This could easily improve through 2019.
Bold flavors and a muscular structure make this wine stand out, delivering plenty of substance for its modest price. Smoky, peppery aromas lead to dark fruit flavors with smoky, spicy accents, while the body is medium and texture firmly tannic.
Bold flavors and plenty of creamy texture make this full-bodied wine seem big and mouth-filling. It offers nice lemon and butter aromas, ripe pear and spicy nutmeg flavors along with a smoky overtone that lasts from the aroma to the finish.
Bold fruit characterizes this firm, fruity Cahors. It has the dark tannins of Malbec, which are supported by the rich black-fruit flavor and touches of licorice, black cherry and black currant. Age this for another 2–3 years.
Bold fruit layers of red cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, cola and chocolate mark this wine. The quality of the fruit is still raw and bright and could use several years of cellar aging.
Bold fruits dominate this ripe wine. As an estate under the guidance of Hubert de Boüard of Château Angélus, it has made enormous progress. Big tannins are enveloped in the ripe fruit to give a wine that is sumptuous and rich. Drink from 2023.
Bold gooseberry, honeydew and citrus flavors abound on this squeaky-fresh and fruity Albariño. It's plump in body but dry and zesty in style. This is a forward, easy-guzzling wine that highlights fresh fruit but finishes with a whisper of sea-salt minerality.
Bold herbal, grassy aromas and rich, full citrus and melon flavors make this wine generous and mouth-filling, while crisp acidity makes it appetizing. This not one of those simply crisp and neutral wines, but a full-fledged and herbaceous one.
Bold hits of spice and toasted cedar envelop ripe black-cherry and plum flavors in this Merlot-based wine (augmented by proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot). The palate is intensely lush and fruity but anchored neatly by a bitter edge of tannins and cranberry acidity. Should drink well through 2023.
Bold hits of spice, vanilla, toast and smoke envelop this Cabernet Franc, but beneath it all, there's a penetrating core of berry and cherry flavors that resonates. It's a hedonistic, perhaps aspirational style of Long Island red wine, but anchored firmly in its fruit. Full-bodied in style, it's structured tautly by fine penetrating tannins and a burst of sour cherry acidity on the midpalate.
Bold in alcohol, with a dry, intensely textured palate, this Riesling is rich and ripe, with notes of honeysuckle, peach and even a hint of berry. It carries its girth well, with a zippy streak of lemon acidity that cuts through all the ripeness, leading to a long, subtly mineral finish.
Bold in flavor and full bodied, this dry wine will taste great with steak or lamb chops. It has a very deep color, full aromas like dark chocolate and blackberry, and concentrated dark-fruit flavors. Moderate tannins give welcome grip to the texture.
Bold juicy blackberry and cherry combine for an elegant expression of the variety in this soft, finessed wine, laced in classic notes of cedar. The wine finishes in a complex burst of black licorice and is a good choice for the table.
Bold lychee, honeydew and stone-fruit perfume adorns this varietally classic Gewürztraminer. Its tastes just a shade off dry, its hibiscus-nectar sweetness accenting sunny tangerine and peach flavors. Sunny acidity and integrated alcohol tie the package together smartly. Drink now through 2020.
Bold Malbec with aromas of berry liqueur, cassis and black cherry. The palate is fresh in feel, with some edginess and snappy acids. Tastes full of berry fruit, creamy oak and vanilla, while the finish is round, lengthy and big. A little oaky and forced, but nice as Malbec goes.
Bold notions of strawberry and cherry form around a robust core of oak and tannin, giving this rounded, approachable wine a medium to full-figured build. Minty earth follows, an element of herb that's refreshing on the palate and impactful, a sign of its cooler-climate vineyard site.
Bold oak aromas like wood smoke and toasted baguette meet almost-sweet flavors like cherries, plums and a bit of maple syrup in this medium-bodied wine.
Bold oak on the nose places aromas of hickory and smoke atop sappy berry scents. A clampy tannic, high-energy palate is emboldened by penetrating acidity, while flavors of plum, berry, tomato and spice are lifted by that same acidity. This is still young, jagged and abrasive on the finish. Drink through 2028.
Bold proportions of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meuniere in this traditional-method sparkling lend sweet-tart bursts of raspberry and blackberry from nose to palate. It's a deeply concentrated wine, with fine, piercing bubbles and a lingering finish.
Bold prune and ripe blackberry notes are followed by leather and dried tobacco accents. In the mouth, the wine is smooth, velvety and easily approachable.
Bold smoky aromas join equally bold and concentrated fruit flavors in this full-bodied well-oaked wine. Beyond the wood smoke and grilled meat components are ample blackberry, dark chocolate and black-cherry flavors.
Bold strokes of blackberry, cassis and bramble persist throughout this surprisingly youthful late-release Cabernet Sauvignon. It's rich on the palate yet balanced neatly, boasting brisk acidity and ripe but grippy tannins. Two years of maturation in French oak contribute to a long finish marked with sweet tobacco and baking spices.
Bold sun-enriched aromas of olive, spice, tobacco and blackberry are what you'd expect from this warm-climate Carmenère grown on magnesium-infused soils. A full sappy palate is syrupy, while this big boy tastes of blackened toasty blackberry and cassis along with herbs. An easy, almost soft finish isn't demanding.
Bold swathes of bramble, toast and smoke reverberate throughout this inky rich red. While lusciously concentrated, it's not at all brawny with tart red-currant acidity and fine-grained tannins lending a four-square frame of structure. The finish is penetrating and quite long.
Bold tannins and firm acidity make this wine a bit stiff to enjoy now, but it should benefit from aging through 2020. Aromas are lightly earthy, while flavors reflect cranberry and tart cherry. The texture carries a tooth-coating layer of tannins.
Bold with tannins, this spicy wine is dense and dark. It's all structure and dryness at the moment. And, although the fruit is there, it looks as though the tannins will remain.
Bold yellow-gold in color, this aged, barrel-fermented Verdejo has predictably heavy aromas of wood spice and resin, joined by hints of carrot juice and apricot. It has solid palate with adequate acidity, showing oaky stone fruit flavors that finish with a heavy dose of barrel spice.
Bold, aggressive aromas of shoe polish, grainy oak, campfire and heat lead to a grabby, wide palate with sweet flavors of candied fruit and marshmallow. There's a lot of superficiality here, particular oak, but there's also legitimate Malbec fruit and character that make it worthwhile.
Bold, but complete and well-balanced, this full-bodied wine from a Sierra Foothills stalwart is packed with opulent black plum and cassis flavors and a firmly tannic texture. It starts with lightly smoky, peppery aromas and finishes with lingering fruit, spice and mocha notes. Best after 2020.
Bold, clean and straightforward, this is a tasty red wine with lots of fresh fruit flavors. It smells like blackberries and licorice, and tastes rich and full bodied. It finishes dry with a hint of tannin that makes it appetizing. It would make a good house red.
Bold, concentrated and full bodied, this wine brings effusive black cherry and blueberry aromas, a Port-like fruit concentration, good bracing texture and decent balance.
Bold, concentrated and spiced with some new oak aromas, this shows opulent fruit flavors. It looks dark, smells ripe, and feels broad textured and full bodied. It is generously proportioned and easy to drink.
Bold, dark and compelling, the nose offers scents of tar, resiny herb, dark fruit and pastry spice. The chewy tannins are woven into this heavy hitter's full body, while uplifting acids keep the palate feeling steady and toned. Structured plum and tobacco notes drive the long, balanced finish.
Bold, dark and concentrated, this blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot still shows some youthful restraint on the nose and palate, suggesting this is a wine best enjoyed after 2018 and through 2024. Seductive notes of toasted oak, cocoa nib, licorice and Thin Mint kiss the black-fruit core of boysenberry, blackberry and cherry. The mouthfeel is dense, with a firm structure and bold tannins that grip the long, spicy finish.
Bold, dark and rubbery on the nose, with a hint of citrus to go with black cherry. This is full, thorough and upstanding on the palate, with black fruit, licorice and cocoa flavors. Comes across sweet and rich but balanced, with a layered, long finish.
Bold, deep cola, lemon peel and exotic spice and herb aromas are a great intro to a well-built, saturated, but fairly tannic Tempranillo, with flavors of plum, blackberry and chocolate. Cedar and spice notes positively influence a layered finish. Overall this captures the essence of Ribera del Duero. Drink through 2022.
Bold, floral aromas of rubbery red-berry fruits introduce a full, fresh, largely elegant palate that's home to minerally, medicinal cherry, plum and berry flavors. Wood grain and resiny notes are apparent on the finish, which is long, driving, spicy and oaky.
Bold, forward and extracted red wine, with raspberry, earth, compost and a light leafiness to the nose. Tannic and tight, with plum and heavy, ripe berry flavors. Toasty and dark on the finish too, with power and freshness.
Bold, full-bodied and polished, this opens with aromas that recall violets, ripe plums, red berries and cake spices. The smooth, savory palate delivers juicy Morello cherries, black raspberries, cinnamon, mocha, white pepper and a hint of mint. Generous, velvety tannins provide the framework and add finesse.
Bold, grapy aromas are big-time fruity but easy and uncomplicated. Tight and powerful across the tongue, this delivers blackened flavors of mixed berry fruits that run short before a peppery, toasty, slightly hot finish.
Bold, gritty, balsamic berry aromas are rubbery and saucy in nature. Edgy and grating on the palate, but also full of spunk, this tastes salty. Modest red-berry flavors finish oaky and rustic, with a lasting note of aged balsamic vinegar.
Bold, juicy dark cherry and cola drift along a bed of rose petals. Ripe and full bodied, this wine manages to be soft and spicy on the midpalate, then delivers a lengthy, complex finish that's girded in structured tannin.
Bold, jumpy, reduced aromas of plum and berry fruits show little to no oak. This is chewy and jammy in feel, with standard berry flavors and almost no complexity as it heads toward a finish with mild animal and herbal notes.
Bold, meaty and softly simple, this robustly full-bodied wine is redolent of mocha and brown sugar. Its ripely sweet blackberry fruit is cut with savory black-olive notes.
Bold, medicinal and slightly stalky smelling on the nose, this young Tempranillo is jarring on the palate. Flavors of berry fruits come with oak and saltiness, while the finish is rubbery in feel and herbal in flavor.
Bold, oak-driven aromas of dill, chocolate-covered almonds and brown butter transition through to the medium- to full-bodied palate, which is marked by a pleasing note of liquid rock. The palate feels easygoing and malleable, but chalky tannins and balanced acids give it a sense of structure.
Bold, penetrating tannins and bright cranberry acidity lend a tight frame to this classically styled Blaufränkisch, a.k.a. Lemberger. Crisp-tart blackberry and blueberry flavors are accented by bramble and herb notes that linger long on the finish. Its quite closed now, but should show well after 2018.
Bold, penetrating yellow-cherry and pink grapefruit flavors are calibrated by streaks of lime, lemon and slate in this invigorating kabinett. Kicks of saffron and spice accentuate its pert, racy style. Enjoy now through 2018 for fresh, fruity refreshment.
Bold, powerful aromas of white pepper and blackberry explode, with a more mature bouquet of dried rose petal and sweet cigar box. Soft, lush tannins frame pure, supple berry fruit. Perfect now. —S.H.
Bold, ripe and fruity, this is a young wine that will be ready to drink soon. It has blackberry notes laced with bright acidity to balance the rich palate. Already delicious and approachable, this is a generous wine with a fresh aftertaste.
Bold, ripe black-cherry and berry flavors pulsate from the core of this voluptuous Pinot Noir. It's a densely concentrated, full-bodied wine but neatly integrated, nuanced by subtle shades of spice, dark toast and bramble. Crisp cranberry acidity freshens the finish. Drink now through 2030.
Bold, ripe fruit and chocolate notes open the nose of this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The wine is layered and rich, with lingering tones of tobacco and sweet spice.
Bold, ripe fruit flavors and full body give oomph to this cherry-scented, plum-flavored wine. It tastes high on the ripeness scale, and plays its fruit chords firmly, yet it also has nice concentration and a sense of layering that are pleasures to ponder.
Bold, rubbery aromas of dark-berry fruits and toasty oak precede a hard-driving palate with smoky, peppery black-fruit flavors that pour on the oak and related espresso and toastiness on the finish. Drink this generous Malbec through 2019.
Bold, succulent black cherry and currant flavors combine with softer, more elegant notions of graphite, coffee and clove in this well-made, full-bodied, 100% varietal wine. Volcanic soils comprise the Sonoma Mountain slope where the vineyard is located, contributing a gravelly hint of reduction.
Bold, thick and chewy, this masculine blend of Montepulciano and Cabernet Franc delivers lasting aromas of pipe tobacco, cinnamon, jammy blackberry and dried herb. The finish is driven by a soft, chocolate-fudge-like aftertaste.
Bold, well structured and nicely dry, this wine has plenty of dark-red color, appetizing black-cherry and wild-berry aromas, and ample but not overripe fruit flavors. A full-bodied, grown-up kind of wine, it doesn't overdo anything and will be great at the dinner table.
Bolder and bigger than most, this wine combines generous fruit flavors with great acidity and structured tannins for a lip-smacking texture. The red cherry and raspberry aromas are intriguing, while the flavors deliver the goods and the finish is firm.
Bolder and fuller in body than Heron Hill's standard Chardonnay, the Ingle Vineyard boasts delicate hints of blossom, green apple and lime. Savory tones of bramble, smoke and stem tend to overwhelm, but overall, the wine offers brisk refreshment.
Boldly etched with milk chocolate and baked plum notes, this wine is ripe, robust and jammy in spirit. Leather, black pepper and cinnamon accents season it nicely.
Boldly flavored and full-bodied, this is marked by strong, spicy-sweet oak aromas and flavors. It has a massive richness of tannins, gobs of ripe boysenberry and black cherry character, and a very deep red color. Despite the hefty structure, it's drinkable now if accompanied by equally rich food.
Boldly flavored and slightly sweet, this blend of mostly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon smells jammy, tastes ripe and juicy and has a fairly smooth texture with a touch of tannin. The flavors resemble black berry and sweet red cherry, the body is full and the finish is fruity.
Boldly fruity, redolent with cherries and pink grapefruit, this medium-bodied rosé does have a slightly candied quality to it, but remains a decent summertime quaff. Serve well chilled to help mute the apparent sweetness.
Boldly fruity, this “wine product”—labeled as such because it is only 4.5% alcohol—features loads of strawberry and tangerine character. It's perfumy, soapy and sweet, balanced by frothiness.
Boldly grapey, this blend of Diamond, Cayuga White and Catawba grapes is a fun fruity sip with that characteristic “foxiness” of American grapes. It's simple and a bit sugary, but light footed and fresh.
Boldly oaked, this moderately rounded and rich wine offers a ripeness of apple, fig and butter.
Boldly perfumed with lychee, rose petal and peach, this is a textbook Gewürztraminer with wide appeal. Luscious stone fruit and melon flavors lend a silkiness on the palate off set by sunny grapefruit acidity. It's delicately sweet on the finish. Drink now through 2018.
Boldly structured, this brawny wine opens with aromas of mature black-skinned fruit, exotic spice and a whiff of toasted oak. The generous, chewy palate offers fleshy black cherry, raspberry, licorice, cinnamon and cocoa alongside velvety tannins. You'll also detect the warmth of alcohol but the dense fruit richness easily supports it.
Boldly tannic, this structured, wood-aged wine is just starting out. It's as much dry wood and tannins as fruit at this stage, although the fruit and mineral texture do promise aging. There is significant acidity at the end. Drink from 2016.
Bolinas-based Sean Thackrey's new project, Cassiopeia is centered on one block from a single Anderson Valley vineyard. His quest was to see what four different Pinot Noir clones on one rootstock, all the same age, and treated otherwise similarly, could become once turned into wine. This, the 114, is lightly rendered, though deceptively full and meaty, tasting of dark cherry and herb.
Bolla is an iconic name for Soave and this bright wine delivers all the ease and good cheer you can expect from an easy Italian white. Citrus and stone fruit aromas are followed by a soft, slightly sweet mouthfeel.
Bollini Pinot Grigio offers satisfying sensations of crisp lemon, stone fruit and melon. The wine is slightly sweet in the mouth and fills in the rear with pretty floral and fruit flavors. Pair it with finger foods and appetizers. With almost 200,000 cases made, this wine should be easy to locate.
Bolstered by 14% Petite Sirah, this bottling offers a stunning array of herb and earth scents that surround a core of black plum and minty licorice spice. The palate shows rounded purple fruit and more herbal notes, and the acidity is strong but balanced.
Bombastic and burly, this wine holds a depth of black raspberry and cherry at its edge, surrounded in swathes of smoky oak. Rich and full bodied, it is a testament to the intrigue of baking spices and black tea, but more significantly to dark chocolate and espresso.
Bombino Bianco tends to shows bright, sharp acidity but this expression is softened by honeydew melon and green apple aromas.
Bona fide Best Buys aren't as ubiquitous as they once were, so take note of this affordable Garnacha from northeast Spain. The wine features clean aromas of dried fruits, spice and licorice. The palate is just as proper, with sweet plum and berry flavors. It may be a tiny bit screechy and gritty, but we're talking $9 here, so get on board.
Bonacchi makes several expressions of Brunello. Molino del Piano is a ripe and plush wine with some savory aromas of cured meat and leather backed by Indian spice and black currant. Despite the ripeness, firm structure gives the wine austerity.
Bone-dry although not shatteringly so, this is a crisp, tightly fruity wine. The aromatic character gives a fresh, green-apple-laden flavor reinforced by lemon zest. Drink now.
Bone-dry and austere, this is a wine for people who feel that fruit and sugar have no place in a sparkling wine. The aromas are of sun-baked earth and dust, with a trace of vanilla and white chocolate. All you really experience on the palate is acidity, alcohol and weight, although if you try hard you can imagine a squeeze of lime. It’s very clean.
Bone-dry style, very crisp and with a full fruit character of red apples and peaches along with red berries. A great food wine.
Bone-dry, hard and crisp, this is a basic, stainless-steel fermented, nonmalolactic style of Chardonnay. Brisk and competent, but neutral.
Bone-dry, tart in acids, and with rose petal, crushed raspberry, dried red currant, herb tea and pepper flavors, this rosé is zesty and versatile with food. It's a blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
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.
Bone dry and complex, with terroir-infused mineral, citrus, pear and sweet green mint flavors. A streamlined, layered wine, although it's just a bit hot in alcohol.
Bone dry and concentrated, it was fermented in a mix of stainless steel and neutral oak. Lush floral and citrus aromatics carry over into the flavors, with a streak of Curaçao liqueur as well.
Bone dry and crisp, this is also has fruitiness from the ripeness of the grapes, giving impressively rich apple and pear flavors. Of course, these are cut by tight acidity and intense citrus, leaving a tight, steely aftertaste.
Bone dry and crisp, this is rich in New Zealand-like gooseberry flavor, making it mouthwateringly savory. Yet it's entirely Californian with its notes of ripe pear, peach and pineapple. An elegant wine to drink now, this would make for an elegant apéritif.
Bone dry and crisp, this Sauvignon Blanc shows fresh, savory flavors of lemons, limes and grapefruits, with richer notes of pineapples, vanilla bean and honeysuckle. A firm minerality helps add structure and finesse. It's a great restaurant wine, especially at this price, but will be hard to find, with only 140 cases produced.
Bone dry and delicately structured, it has good acidity cutting across herb tea, apricot, orange rind and white pepper flavors. The wine shows some true complexity and interest.
Bone dry and earthy, this Cab shows modest flavors of blackberries, currants and mocha. It's a clean, affordable wine that's good for an everyday red.
Bone dry and elegantly tannic, this shows blackberry and currant flavors, touched by smoky oak. It doesn't quite have the depth to age, so drink this Cabernet soon to appreciate the rich fruit and classic Napa structure.
Bone dry and extremely tannic, this Roero Riserva offers interesting notes of wild berries, candied fruit, orange zest and wild flowers. It's tight, firm and sharp on the palate.
Bone dry and firmly tannic, this Syrah has a peppery edge to the blackberry, currant and tamari flavors. It could be more focused and concentrated. Drink now.
Bone dry and hard in acidity, this is an austere Chardonnay that lacks richness, and hopes to trade on elegance. It has modest pineapple flavors, touched with smoky oak and lees. Defines a low-alcohol, minerally approach. Drink now.
Bone dry and hinting at a sweet herb flavor, this wine backs away from the fruitiness found in most domestic Chenin Blanc. It offers complex details of yellow fruit, lemon verbena and beeswax.
Bone dry and light, with cranberry, cola and tomato flavors in a silky package. This is a wine that seems to be an expression of its vineyard. It's not a rich wine, nor one to age beyond a year or so. But it possesses an earthy honesty. —S.H.
Bone dry and nicely crisp, and the price is right, but the wine itself has some problems. The fruits tend toward lean, tart grapefruits, lemons and limes, with a touch of vegetable.
Bone dry and pretty tannic at the age of four-plus years, this Merlot has interesting flavors of cherries, red currants, Dr. Pepper cola and sweet, smoky oak. The tannins are fierce, but pliant. Should soften and mellow over the next 6–8 years.
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.
Bone dry and tannic, with a sour bite of acidity. It's a pretty fierce Cab, despite some decent blackberry flavors.
Bone dry and tart in acidity, both of which are nice, with mouthwatering lemon, lime and grapefruit flavors. Would be better if not for some green feline notes that are almost sour.
Bone dry and tart in acidity, this has tobacco, sour cherry and crushed black-pepper flavors. While it doesn't show much richness, it's silky and elegant on the palate, with a certain earthy complexity. Foods, such as lamb, steak and salmon, will certainly coax out more flavors than the wine delivers by itself.
Bone dry and tart in acidity, with a silky texture, this Pinot has cherry and rhubarb flavors with an edge of fresh green herbs and peppercorns. It's elegantly structured, and meant for early drinking.
Bone dry and tart in citrusy acidity, this is a Chablis-style Chardonnay. It has a firm minerality grounding clean flavors of sour pineapple candy, with richer notes of vanilla and smoky oak. Elegant and food-friendly.
Bone dry and tart, this is made without oak, allowing the grape's natural acidity and flavors to star. There's a minerality to the lemons and limes, with hints of vanilla and white pepper. What a glorious partner for oysters on the half shell.
Bone dry and vegetal, with high acidity. Saved, just barely, by some good cherry and oak flavors.
Bone dry and very acidic, almost sour, with watery flavors of orange and lemon cough drop candy. Gains a few points for elegance and cleanliness.
Bone dry but harmonious and well balanced, with ripe acidity and restrained pear, honey and petroleum notes in a medium-bodied frame. Its finish is long and minerally. Drinking well now but will show more finesse several years down the road.
Bone dry indeed, and searingly tart as well, this is loaded with complex, deeply inscribed flavors of fruit, stone and rind. Citrus is the highlight—a compelling mix of lime, grapefruit and orange peel. The finish is world class. Drink now through 2025.
Bone dry yet sweet in fruit, it shows the acids and tannins of this cool section of Napa Valley, which gives such excellent structure to the ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit. It feels vital, offering a different impression with every sip. Wonderful to drink now but capable of aging; drink now–2019.
Bone dry, acidic and subtle in citrus and tropical fruit flavors, this is a Chardonnay that doesn't insist on standing on its own. Instead, it's perfectly content to let the food star, remaining in a supporting role. For pairings, lobster risotto comes to mind, or just a delicious mayonnaise-based sandwich.
Bone dry, almost shockingly so, but with the freshest acidity and crispest pure apple and citrus fruit. The flavor is tight, with intense fruitiness. Screwcap.
Bone dry, but soft, this is a complete, rounded Champagne. It has plenty of the Chardonnay mineral character, with fine citrus zest and tight acidity. It is nowhere near mature, so keep for another two years. Impressive.
Bone dry, delicately structured and crisp in acidity, this doesn't show the richness you expect from Viognier. But it's elegant, with layers of lemons, limes, apricots, white pepper and vanilla bean. Drink it now with modern Asian fare.
Bone dry, deliciously crisp, this young Riesling exudes minerality, steel and flint while giving flavors of green apple, grapefruit and white currant. It shows great acidity in its tight, taut finish.
Bone dry, earthy and leathery, this Proprietor's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon seems a bit tired. The fruit is showing early signs of fading, and the tannins—earthy, green and a bit rough—may already be taking over. Some earthy, organic, almost biodynamic flavors come out in the finish.
Bone dry, minerally and brisk in mouthwatering acidity, this has subtle yet rich flavors of tropical fruit, citrus, green apple and honey. It shows real elegance and complexity; drink now–2016.
Bone dry, tart in acidity and seemingly simple, this is the most expensive of Calera's five new Pinot Noirs. It's not showing well now, with tight, mouthwatering cranberry, rosehip tea and tobacco flavors. It feels elegant and silky in the mouth. Give until 2020 in the cellar.
Bone dry, tart in acidity and silky in texture, with flavors of mashed red cherries and red currants. Pretty austere by itself, but better with cheeses, roasts, olive oil.
Bone dry, this succulent, citrus-soaked Riesling is a textural marvel. Mixing grapefruit, lime and pear fruit flavors, its racy acidity underscores its complexity.
Bone dry, this wine shows the soft, dusty tannins and herbal flavors that classically mark Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It has an elegant structure housing flavors of blackberries, currants, sage, tobacco and cedar, and should develop in the bottle over the next 6–8 years.
Bone dry, toasty, forward, and tart. The flavors orient themselves around a bright core of blueberry fruit. The Sangiovese grape's natural acidity gives structure and support; the fruit and oak are perfectly balanced. A strong streak of licorice and smoke weaves through the finish.
Bone dry, tough and leathery, with a bitter, raisiny edge to the blackberries and cherries. Drink now.
Bone dry, ultra-crisp in acidity, and lean in mineral flavors, this barrel-fermented, lees-aged Roussanne is the opposite of rich. But it's enormously elegant, and its leanness contains subtle hints of Meyer lemons, grapefruits, toast, yeast and cold, hard steel. A sommelier's dream for pairing with very complex dishes.
Bone dry, with brisk tannins, this is a Merlot to drink with good food and not worry about the wine overshadowing it. It's really drinkable, with a soft, lush mouthfeel and flavors of cherries, currants, spices and cedar. A huge and welcome improvement over the '06.
Bone dry, with bristling notes of wet stone, slate and petrol, this boasts striking minerality, with undertones of white blossoms, limes and sugar cookie that linger delicately on the finish. Brisk with acidity, it would pair fabulously with goat cheese or fatty salmon.
Bone dry, wonderfully fresh and loaded with strawberry and watermelon flavors, hepped up with lightly peppery spice. In short, a perfect summer sipper, chilled and drunk with picnic foods, preferably outdoors.
Bonera is a blend of Nero d'Avola (50%) and equal parts Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon. The bouquet is sweet and soft, with bright tones of red cherry, chocolate and espresso bean. The mouthfeel is firm, tight and fresh.
Bonheur—happiness—is an appropriate name for this fresh and crisp wine that comes in a flute à corset bottle. It is fruity, lively with orange and apricot over raspberries. Bright acidity finishes it all in good humor.
Bonnet was this family's winery in 1744. André Lurton took over in 1953 and in 2015, the third warmest year since 1900, his team created a wine with tropical fruits, mango and pineapple. This give this wine its ripe, perfumed character. It does have a crisp side as well, fresh with apple and citrus. The balance is just right, giving a refreshing, ready-to-drink wine.
Bonterra's first rosé, showing the clean purity and balance that nearly always characterize its wines. Bone dry and vibrant in acidity, this Sangiovese, Zinfandel and Grenache blend has tart cherry, raspberry, tea and vanilla flavors. You might want to open it early to let some sulfur blow off.
Bonterra's Riesling is off dry in style with a bright palate full of sweet applesauce and floral notes. It's light and crisp with lemony layers that finish long. This is a well-priced Riesing for a range of palates, and made from organically-grown grapes. Pair with something super spicy.
Bonterra continues to make great wines at affordable prices, all from organically grown grapes. With blueberry pie and clove predominating, the wine is tannic, super-structured, with a spicy finish. A good deal for sure.
Bonterra excels with this leaner, lighter, brighter form of Chardonnay. Made out of organically grown grapes, it's crisp as a green apple, with just a trace of butterscotch on the otherwise lemony finish.
Bonterra is offering up some serious yumminess here, from organic grapes grown in Lake County. The sweet wine opens with a sweet floral nose and a lot of minerality graduating into a concentrated thickness of golden honey-graham flavors.
Bonterra sources organically grown grapes from both Mendocino and Lake counties to craft this light, slightly sour white generous in kiwi and a pronounced aroma and taste of honeydew.
Bony and austere, the palate is marked by tart flavors and hints of underdeveloped stone fruit. It is crisp and clean, offering a distinctive, different take on white wine from the Southern Rhône.
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.
Boosted with 4% Tempranillo, 3% Petite Sirah and 3% Tannat, this Zin comes from a 100-year-old Mendocino clone, and shows ripe strawberry syrup, campfire smoke and anise on the nose. The palate is dominated by smoke, with just touch of red fruits, tannins and tartness keeping it lively.
Boosted with 5% Barbera, this bottling for the estate's Bootjack Ranch shows ripe cranberry, red cherry, a pinch of herbs and touches of caramel and coffee syrup on the nose. A dense core of black plum skins at the palate's core is surrounded by bright cherry fruit, evolving into a dark chocolate and espresso touch.
Bordeaux blends show promise in this region. This combination of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37.5% Merlot and 12.5% Cabernet Franc reveals rustic, leathery aromas of crushed Italian herbs, dried red cherries and fresh dill. Once sipped, flavors of fresh-ground coffee, oregano and bay leaf spice a base of cranberry fruit.
Bordeaux Claret has a darker color than a rosé, suggesting more weight. This wine, though, also has a green herbal edge that is less attractive.
Bordeaux grapes mix with Zweigelt in this full-bodied, serious wine. It has initial severe tannins, followed by ripe currant and blackberry fruit. The wood aging gives good spice character. Well worth aging for 3–4 years.
Bordeaux has always had Malbec in its vineyards although it is rare. This unusual wine shows how, in a fruity year, the grape can work well. The tannins are soft, giving a juicy black-fruited wine that is forward and delicious to drink now for its succulent fruit.
Bordeaux wine should not have high alcohol; it detracts from the play between fruit and tannins, as in this wine. It is powered by its extracted structure, with flavors of bitter chocolate that leave the fruit behind.
Borderline exotic on the nose, with aromas of black cherry, violet and a touch of earthy leather. The palate has some prickle and snap to it, but it settles into lively black plum and boysenberry. Finishes smooth, ripe and big, with medium length. The coupage is 80% Syrah and 20% Monastrell.
Borderline rustic, with edgy tannins and tart, jammy cherry and blueberry flavors that finish in a slightly sweet swirl of black pepper. Easy to drink now with pasta, barbecue, pizza.
Borderline translucent in color, and equally light in the nose. The aromas are of cranberry and chlorine. The palate is all strawberry and some bitter oak, and while it picks up steam and fills out with time, the initial impression is hard to overcome.
Bordino is a traditional wine with some of the sharpness and nervous edginess you find in older Barbarescos. The nose is redolent of road tar, root beer, dried spice, ginger and a touch of white truffle. You really need food with this wine otherwise its tight tannins and power can be overwhelming. Drink after 2012.
Borghetto delivers a soft, creamy mouthfeel with nuanced tones of apricot, pineapple, banana and dried hay. Vernaccia di San Gimignano is one of Tuscany's most important, but ironically also overlooked, white wines.
Borgo Conventi (owned by Tuscany's Ruffino) brings us a creamy Pinot Grigio with rich nuances of citrus and passion fruits, mango and pineapple. The wine is perfectly round and proportionate in the mouth—it's light on the tongue yet dense and long-lasting.
Borgo Scopeto is a consistent producer with a deft hand when it comes to the tricky Sangiovese grape. This Chianti Classico shows clean lines and bright fruit flavors, followed by mouth-cleansing acidity. Balanced and fresh.
Borgoluce is the type of brut sparkling wine that shows all that easy-drinking informality we love to find in Prosecco Superiore. White flower and citrus are the main aromatic elements and the wine is bright and sharply crisp in the mouth.
Boroli is a dynamic winery worth keeping a close eye on. Barolo Villero takes a traditional approach that speaks highly of the beautifully hilly area that shaped the wine. Delicate aromas include wild berries, dried orange zest, apple skin, licorice, tar and cigar box. In the mouth, the wine is streamlined and tight.
Borra's blend of 80% Petite Sirah, 10% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre has three strong personalities vying for attention with Petite Sirah definitely dominant in juicy, blueberry fruit and a core of dusty tannins, with just a suggestion of meaty game. Structured this is a nice wine to pair with a rich risotto or leg of lamb.
Borra's Fusion is 90% Viognier and 10% Gewurztraminer and the two varieties bring out nice things in each other here, the floral aromas at the wine's opening evolving into a crisp, soft, creamy center on the mid-palate, a taste of citrus and honeydew standing out.
Borra demonstrates its mastery with whites in this interesting, perfect mélange of sweetness and zip. Made in a dry style, the sweetness is mostly in the aromatics, which imply peach-colored roses, and inviting mouthfeel, which imparts subtle grapefruit and stone fruit amidst all the crispness.
Borra is going old-school here, making the wine nonvintage and putting 10% each of Syrah and Mourvedre into Petite Sirah. Smelling of freshly baked bread, the wine is full of structured red fruit, while its tannins are soft and finish is easygoing. A fine bottle for rustic fare.
Borra is having fun in Lodi experimenting with both red and white blends of varieties not usually put together —here, it's 89% Viognier and 11% Gewürztraminer—with worthwhile results. White Fusion starts with a severe lemony crispness, segues into oaky caramel and finishes bittersweet.
Borra winemaker Markus Niggli, a Swiss native, has gone back to his roots for this innovative blend of 85% Kerner and 15% Riesling, proving that some of the best experimentation in California is happening in places like Lodi right now. Full of lively acidity, this wine is crisp, soft, sparkling with lime, apple, lychee and kiwi, easy to enjoy on a summer's day or any other day.
Bortolin's Extra Dry Prosecco delivers sharp effervescence and soda-like tones of lemon, lime and white stone. In the mouth, however, the wine is creamy and soft thanks to its foamy bubbles.
Bortolotti has a well-earned reputation for steady, classic expressions of Prosecco exemplified by this luminous Extra Dry. Aromas here include spring flower, melon and white peach.
Bortolotti makes a well-priced Non-DOC Prosecco Extra Dry with fragrant aromas of white flowers and peach. The luminous sparkler has just enough sweetness to underscore those fresh peach flavors and offers tingly bubbling.
Bortoluzzi's Friulano is fresh and immediate with a nice level of aromatic intensity. The wine delivers peach blossom and vanilla bean over a creamy and rich consistency. It lasts long on the palate with spicy crispness on the close.
Bortoluzzi's Sauvignon is a fragrant and crisp wine with pretty aromas of exotic fruit, chopped herbs and drying minerals. The mouthfeel is lean and smooth and the wine delivers a pinch of tangy spice on the close.
Bosan is a sweet-smelling Amarone with vibrant aromas of blueberry and cherry followed by delicate floral nuances. The wine is direct and immediate with background aromas of red apple, vanilla and oak. It's exceedingly smooth and ends with sweet fruit and soft tannins. An outstanding wine.
Bosc pear and tangy peach are brought to life with a squirt of lemon juice. Enjoy this unoaked Chardonnay with citrus-marinated grilled chicken.
Bosc pear, tart apple and vanilla bean elements make this a fascinating dry wine. Although the aromas are inviting, the first sip tastes austere. But as it opens, the palate and gains more concentration and complexity, proving sophisticated, layered and nuanced.
Boscarelli's hearty Vino Nobile opens with dark nuances of plum, blackberry, ground pepper, cigar box and carob pod. The texture is thick and slightly gritty with drying tannins on the fade.
Boscarelli offers a dark, meaty and sophisticated expression of Vino Nobile with gritty tannins, dark berry fruit and plum, followed by loads of spice, tar and resin. Softer oak tones of vanilla and cinnamon appear on the close.
Bosco Faiano is a hearty, masculine wine, aged 18 months in large oak casks to deliver dark notes of dried fruit, black currant, cured meat, leather and spice. At first, this tastes bold and raw, but after a few minutes in the glass, it shows a nice evolution toward elegance.
Both a study of clone and stainless-steel processing, this wine offers fresh-cut pineapple, ripe Gala apple, honeydew and even peach, with a citrus-skin sharpness to the nose. The flavors are delicate and familiar but complex and deep, with Anjou pears, lemon-lime soda and apple flesh. It's a lively stainless expression.
Both amplitude and generosity are apparent from the first sniff with ripe pear dominating the flavor spectrum. The body is concentrated and balances the full fruit with pleasant tingling zestiness. This is dry and precisely drawn, with a zesty finish.
Both blossom and fruit are offered on the nose: the dewy scent of ripe, yellow mirabelles is captivating. The same primary notes play on the fizzy, frothy palate, boosted further by generous dosage. This is easy and fresh, lively and exuberant. For now, yeasty autolytic notes are still in the background. This will change with a little bottle age.
Both citrus and apple notes are dulled by very earthy notes. The slender palate frothes softly but does not provide more fruit, either. This is dry and muted, but fresh.
Both cold-tank fermented and barrel-fermented, this white shows steely aromas of lemon and fresh lime, its acidity bristling with mouthwatering succulence and a lightness of body.
Both crisp and creamy, it's packed with lively citrus and clementine flavors. The wine is light in texture, just tangy and full of acidity at the end. Bring on the shellfish.
Both crisp and rich, a magical combination with beautiful acidity, light currants, the whole wine infused with honey. The final acidity leaves a long-lasting aftertaste.
Both dried and baked apple appear enticingly on the nose. A further sniff reveals the appetizing tartness of Cox Orange Pippin apples. The palate is concentrated and gathered around a rich core of fruit: ripe citrus, zesty lemon rind, baked apples. This is dry, yet with every sip you want to dive deeper into that heart of fruit. It is the lemon that forms the fresh but absolutely dry finish. The flavors clearly are evolving: join the journey now or over the coming years. Drink now through 2030.
Both dried and juicy red currants form the core of this impressive wine, made in larger quantities with a deft hand. Medium bodied and offering grip and structure, this restrained version of the variety doesn't skimp on flavor.
Both elegant and refreshing, this citrus and floral-infused wine follows the Navarro house style for whites, which includes great balance, rounded mouthfeel and honey and floral accents. It's medium bodied, vibrant with acidity and wonderfully complex.
Both Freixenet and its sister property Segura Viudas put out myriad Cavas in this price and quality range. This one shows cherry candy on the nose and some seltzer. The palate is balanced between sweet red fruit and citrus, while the finish is dry despite some earlier sweetness. Bouncy and nice for a Pinot Noir Cava.
Both fresh and baked apple make an appearance on the nose. Aromatic hints of citrus peel highlight the nuance of apple fruit in this slender but rounded wine. The spicy midpalate anchors this firmly and gives backbone to the beauty.
Both fresh and jellied black plum, Concord grape and blackberry aromas show on the nose of this blend of 46% Syrah, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Petit Verdot. The structure is thick with soft tannins, holding up coffee, white pepper and black currant flavors.
Both fresh green and ripe yellow pear make an appearance on the nose, along with a subtle hint of pineapple candy. The palate is more crisp than expected—in line with the 2014 vintage—but provides ample refreshment and citrus zing. If you like zippy you'll love this.
Both grapes in this blend have gathered the natural freshness of the region, close to the ocean. This crisp wine is tightly textured with a ripe yellow and white fruit flavor. Drink this wine from 2017.
Both grapey and leathery, this is already a bit dried out and should be consumed near term. It's vineyard designated and pure varietal, aged for 22 months in a single French oak barrel.
Both green pear and peardrop make for an inviting, fruity nose. The palate portrays the same easy juicy fruit on a light, sprightly body that is lifted by bright lemon freshness and lively, fine spritz.
Both herbal and tropical in character, this wine presents a fascinating mix between cool and warm climate grapes from the same region. The mineral, tight texture holds these two disparate flavors together to give a balanced wine that is ready to drink.
Both mineral and herbaceous, this is a crisp, taut and textured wine. It shows a tangy character, lemon zest and bright acidity. It's still too young, so drink from the end of 2015.
Both nose and palate display a contrast between rounded ripe pear fruit augmented by residual sweetness and a rather bitter, pithy and phenolic edge. There is freshness here, but heat, too. It seems out of balance.
Both nose and palate need waking up. It is only with intense swishing that some apple freshness emerges on the rather broad palate. A streak of tart apple acidity rescues this.
Both opulence and decadence are evident on the fleshy, peachy nose. The palate presents brighter, fresher peach and yellow plum fruit but has the sweetness of bitter honey. An intriguing and heady mix.
Both refreshing and nicely fruity, this wine blends bright apple and lemon flavors on a tangy texture that softens a bit on the finish.
Both rich and dense, this wine shows the ripeness of the Merlot in 2010. It has firm fruit, touches of dark chocolate and licorice. With its concentration, this small vineyard is now in good form, producing ageworthy wines.
Both rich and opulent, this complex and dense wine is packed with the richest strawberries and a firm, black core of tannin. The velvet casing of the wine is ripe and generous while still needing many years to age. This is a wine for the long-haul, don't touch before 2020.
Both ripe fruit and tannins come through strongly in this wine. It's dense and richly layered, with black fruit and a firm texture. It shows fine potential now and is likely to age well. Drink from 2020.
Both ripe mirabelle and yellow juicy pear appear on the nose. The palate brims with the same fruit. The body is precise and fresh with a lip-smacking citrus finish.
Both ripe pear and ripe, yellow apple shine on nose and palate. On a slender body they are even more highlighted by pure, clean lemon freshness and the dry style. There is a stony backdrop and immense brightness. This is friendly and pure, light but long lasting, like an open, happy smile.
Both ripe red apple and crisp green Granny Smith play on the nose, however, they are laced with both honey and zesty citrus, creating thrill. This is wonderfully poised and invigorating. Totally streamlined and linear, it's a wine to enjoy now and for years to come.
Both ripe, red apple and juicy Mirabelle plum make an enticing appearance. The fruity character somewhat loses itself on the broad palate which nonetheless is made lively by a frothy, friendly mousse. This is simple but fizzy and fresh, with a bitter finish.
Both smooth and beautifully fruity, this is a balanced, delicious wine. It is full of wild strawberry flavors, the freshest acidity and a crisp finish with great acidity. It's a good choice with food and as an apéritif.
Both sour and black cherry join with blackberry on this wine from Laetitia. It delivers a rich, full mouth, with a good tannic grip and lasting finish—perhaps in part due to the inclusion of stems in the fermentation process. Flavors approach the yellow-red blend of Mexican taco spices, equally savory and spicy.
Both stylish and complex, this wine has great tannins and impressive fruits. An impeccable balance along with flavors from 12 months of wood aging is what gives this wine its cohesion and aging potential. This is a fine wine from the top vines of this producer. Drink from 2020.
Both sweet and savory, this delicately scented Riesling juxtaposes notes of pressed apple and dried citrus peels against savory tones of honey comb and smoke. It's tangy and fresh on the palate, brightened by zesty acidity and a clean, mineral finish.
Both tannins and ripe berry fruits are in juicy balance in this wine. It gives it density as well as a crisp character that is enhanced by the smoky flavor that comes through. Drink this wine from 2018.
Both tart and ripe red cherries characterize nose and palate. Ample, crunchy freshness gradually tips into juicy ripeness. The palate discloses lovely density, with overtones of licorice that create subtle, delicious resonance. The tannins are superfine and have a sexy little crunch. It's a totally balanced and beautiful red.
Both tart and tannic, it's unusually tight in personality, with a mouth-puckering texture, sharp fruit flavors and astringent finish. While there are too many soft and overripe Zins, this one goes pretty far the other way.
Both the aromas and the flavors show considerable wood-aging notes that need time to integrate. The wine will begin to show its fruity black-currant and red plum flavors in a year. It has the richness and ripeness for aging over several years.
Both the aromas and the palate shout out the wood aging that's been used in this wine. It is still young and the spice and burnt toast character should soften further into the ripe blackberry fruits. The texture is certainly concentrated and firm; a wine with a good future. Drink from 2017.
Both the fruit and the aromatic foliage of wild raspberries rise first from the glass. They are followed by richer, delicious strawberry and cream notes, with hints of almond patisserie and strawberry shortcake. The palate is resonant with yeasty, rounded autolytic notes that frame the wonderfully wilful English hedgerow character. The mousse is lively but soft and the finish long and echoing.
Both the golden color and the advanced nose signal a mature wine. The nose has a lifted quality that references white sultanas, dried pineapple, chalk and cooked champignons, with sumptuous, pleasantly bitter notes of dark fir honey. Contrary to expectation, the palate is merely off dry. It has an intriguing, almost salty quality with inflections of soy-sauce savoriness and immense depth of flavor. Still is sprightly and fresh, the wine has a streak of lemon freshness at its core. Lovely now and mature, it can be enjoyed until at least 2020.
Both the gorgeous purple color and the nose of fresh grapes make this wine a dead ringer for Beaujolais. The soft palate shows notes of sweet strawberries but has sufficient acidity to leave a refreshing impression in the mouth. Drink now.
Both the juicy and the tart notes of ripe apple and freshly cut apple peel play on the nose. The palate follows with balanced, gentle sweetness: a play-off between apple ripeness and apple tartness. The notion is crisp and the body generous. The finish is delicate and the wine seems just off dry, although it is a proper late-harvest style. It would be an absolute winner with soft cheeses.
Both the nose and palate of this medium-bodied Plavac Mali are soft and pulpy with overripe red fruit accented by the scent of golden hay. Bright acidity in the midpalate adds freshness, and moderate tannins are mouthcoating with a soft, powdery grain.
Both tropical and herbal notes join the citrus flavors on the nose, hinting of passion fruit as well as mint. The palate tones this down and puts ripe lemon in the spotlight. Sleek and slender, the body has a creamy element of yeast but is dry and brisk. The finish is very balanced and lasting.
Both wines from this new producer show significant bottle variation. This Cabernet remains stubbornly stiff and compact, despite hours of breathing time. Some tightly wound berry and pomegranate flavors poke through, with notes of thistle and herb.
Both yeast and yellow Mirabelle plum notes rise from the glass. The palate is more streamlined with its slender structure framed by mint and zest. Tart green apple notes add an extra dollop of appetizing freshness and compel you to take the next sip.
Botrytised Gewürztraminer produces a rich, intense, luscious wine with layers of complex spice. A touch of Sauvignon Blanc introduces some clean, crisp freshness to give the wine a fine sense of balance.
Bottle age has served this wine well, a blend of mostly Cabernet with smaller amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, sourced from the family's three ranches within the appellation. Inviting in cassis and clove, it reveals lithe, soft and juicy layers of blueberry and blackberry before finishing in a plume of acidity.
Bottled after five years, this is an LBV that could well age. It is a ripe wine, bringing out a dry tang of dark raisins and black figs. Attractive perfumes go with the richness of the texture. Tannins add to the aging potential.
Bottled at four years old, this wine has retained all its fruitiness. Bright plum flavors go with the dusty tannins and sweetness to create a generous wine with plenty of room for fruit acidity. Drink now, but the wine could age a couple of years.
Bottled by a leading Prosecco and grappa firm from Veneto, this has aromas of red berry, grilled herb, blue flower and a hint of leather. The palate offers wild cherry, orange zest, mocha, cinnamon, anise and coffee alongside tightly wound tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Bottled in 2015, this ripe LBV from the great 2011 vintage achieves a fine balance between firm, dry tannins that promise some aging and sweet black-cherry fruits that are attractive now. Just a touch of pepper gives a bite to the wine, although with the finish there is a fresher feel of acidity. Drink now or age until 2018.
Bottled in 2015, this wine from a great Port vintage is dark in color and so concentrated. It is powered by intense acidity from the wood aging as much as any residual fruit. Spice, dried fruits and a perfect balance give this great wine elegance and surprising freshness. Drink now.
Bottled in a decanter (thoughtfully supplied with a stopper), this is De Venoge's homage to King Louis XV, who first decreed the bottling of Champagne in the region to preserve the bubbles. This shows toasty, petrol richness, but has preserved much of its original freshness, leaving a good few years' potential.
Bottled in a lovely 500 ml bottle, with a label of cut paper with butterflies, this was barrel fermented in neutral oak. It's a beautiful color, a coppery salmon, much like rosé de Provence (where winemaker Virginie Bourgue is from). It's dry and fruity, but more complex than most newly released rosés, with light berry fruits, a lovely texture, and a finish that suggests malted milk chocolate candy.
Bottled in a replica of a 19th-century crystal carafe, this wine is a blend of crus from the Montagne de Reims. On the dry side of brut, it has a lively sliced apple and citrus character as well as refreshing, lively acidity. The wine is ready to drink.
Bottled in January 2012, this classic LBV has great perfumed fruit, soft and elegant. A blackberry jam flavor dominates, laced with black cherries and soft tannins. Immediately appealing and drinkable now.
Bottled in June 2009, nearly four years after harvest, this is a limited production wine. It has great structure, tannin and beautiful ripe fruits. With a perfumed black-currant character, it is ready to drink now, but its tannins suggest aging potential.
Bottled in March 2010 and released in September 2011, this wine is still drinking young and fresh, with firm, rustic tannins. It's gigantic in mineral-infused blackberries and black currants; the flavors are deep, intense and long-lasting into the finish. An impressive wine whose astringency requires aging, hold this until 2017, at the very least.
Bottled to celebrate the brand's 15th anniversary, this “Essence of Oregon” blend includes grapes from 35 different vineyards. It's a lively lovely wine, with spicy raspberry and cranberry fruit, framed in dark chocolate. Balancing acids keep it fresh and focused, and it has some of the lush jamminess of the better 2015 Beaujolais.
Bottled unfiltered, this is a richly ripe wine, layered with a more smoky, even mineral, texture from the volcanic soil of the vineyard. It is dense, the tannins giving hints of wood as well as a black plum skin character.
Bottled unfiltered, this wine shows some carbonic tendencies, a wildness of strawberry punch and sharp acidity. Light bodied and restrained, it is softly layered and subtle in oak.
Bottled with a trippy-looking label that promotes the brand's spiritual bent, this wine has a nose that conveys elegant eucalyptus, purple flowers, fresh pomegranate, wild mint, sage and pencil shavings. Savory roasting herbs and spice show on the palate, from black pepper to oregano and thyme, then warm up toward cherry pie with black cardamom. It finishes crisp.
Bottled without additional sulfur, this wine has a barnyard aroma. The ripe berry flavors on the palate show plenty of fruitiness, as well as spice and soft tannins. Drink from 2018.
Bottles of this brand bear the double-headed eagle of Russia, a reminder it is named after the wife of the Russian imperial monarch. This nonvintage cuvée is in the house style, crisp, tangy and with a fine combination of citrus and green-plum freshness. Drink now.
Bottling a TBA in this format makes great sense--it allows the tiny productions to be spread around and made more affordable. This is rich, sweet and superintense, with flavors of boiled down marmalade and honey that finish long, long, long. In this size bottle, opt for drinking it young versus extended cellaring.
Bottlings of this variety and also this appellation are scarce in the state. This one has reserved aromas of red and blue fruit along with whiffs of spice. The plump, tangy flavors show a pleasing purity, trailing a bit toward the finish. Try it with pasta with a red sauce.
Bottlings of this variety remain an extreme rarity but it's showing a lot of promise in the state. This wine has aromas of wet stone and star fruit that are followed by a full feeling yet still elegant palate that displays a textured mouthfeel and a lingering finish.
Boudreaux has made a lively and well-modulated Chardonnay in 2006. Bright, snappy fruit flavors mix apple, pear and white peach. Acids are fresh and clean, and the wine has verve and lift right on through a lightly toasty finish, hinting at butterscotch.
Bought in 2006 by François Pinault, also owner of Bordeaux Château Latour, Domaine d'Eugenie (the former Domaine René Engel) is just starting out. Already the style, as in this wine, exhibits power, concentration and structure. But here, also, there is great, vibrant fruit, the red berry flavors rolling around the mouth.
Bougros is one of the richest, opulent of the Grand Cru Chablis. In this fruit-driven year, the wine is wonderfully spicy, rich and full of fine fruit. Yellow fruits dominate the balancing citrus and wood flavors. It is so forward that it could be drunk now, but this fine wine will be much better from 2019
Bougros produces rich wines, and this wine comes from the extra-ripe vineyard at the base of the slope. It is generous, giving a weighty character with the flavors plumbing the depths of richness. On top, a beautiful, almost sweet acidity leaves a fresh feeling in the mouth. Drink from 2019.
Bouncy berry and cherry aromas are more or less standard for basic Garnacha. This wine feels a bit gummy and grabby, but not sticky. Lightly herbal, minty dark-berry flavors finish herbal, chocolaty and a touch green.
Bouncy, jumpy, candied aromas come with scratchiness and minty green. Feels tangy and bordering on sheer, with zesty flavors of red berry fruits, citrus and herbs. Mild and not too deep on the finish.
Bouncy, rubbery berry aromas come with latex and Band-Aid scents. A wiry, crisp mouthfeel sets up limited but spunky red-fruit flavors that are also a bit herbal and stalky. A briny finish shows juicy acidity but mediocre flavors.
Bouncy, rubbery blackberry aromas take on oak tones of coffee, vanilla and caramel. The palate is juicy and full, with red and black berries taking on a slight char.
Boundary Breaks has proven to be the break-out producer of the Finger Lakes this year with an excellent line up of wines, and this off-dry wine is amongst its best. Elegantly perfumed with notes of fresh green florals and herbs, it builds in power and expression on the palate with pristine white peach flavors pierced with lime acidity and a reverberating mineral finish.
Boundary Breaks is an exciting new project from the Finger Lakes, and the No. 239 is one of its best. While ebulliently fruity, almost tropical, on the nose, it's elegantly dry on the palate with a rich, creamy palate full of ripe grapefruit and peach flavors. Vibrant lemon-lime acidity, it finishes long with a hint of lime-skin pith.
Bounteous fruit flavors need a little air to wake up but soon you'll have a party in your glass of ripe yellow plums, freshly cut apples, pears and melons. This is easy and very fruit-driven, balanced, light and just the ticket for a party in the sunshine.
Bountiful and rich black fruits of black currant and black cherry meet with dark clove and other baking spices as well as a hint of maple on the nose of this Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre blend. The palate's chalky structure is soft, allowing strong spice to rise amidst the black fruit in the midpalate, followed by a wave of plummy purple-flower flavors. The finish is all acid, which makes for a compelling combo of sensations.
Bountiful juiciness shows on the nose of this bottling, with honeysuckle, salted apples and scratched tangerine-skin aromas. Ripe Anjou pear, sliced pineapple and vanilla bean pop on the palate that leans tropical but gets welcome restraint from orange-peel bitterness.
Bouscassé is the home estate of Alain Brumont, who also owns Château Montus. The wine may be six years old, but it is still dark and very firm. Dense tannins still show strongly over the tarry black fruits. Just wait and this wine will reveal its richness and smoothness while never losing concentration. Drink from 2018.
Bouscassé is the home of Alain Brumont who also owns Château Montus in Madiran. This powerful wine with its blend of Tannat with the two Cabernets (Franc and Sauvignon) is dense and packed with firm tannins. It is also equally full of generous black-plum fruits and considerable acidity. This is still young—it's a concentrated wine that needs to age further. Drink from 2019.
Boushey and Red Willow are the vineyards that contribute to this 100% varietal Cabernet Franc. There's excellent concentration to the brambly, bright, blackberry fruit, and some sharp acidity to underscore it. It's pure varietal and should continue to improve 2019–2021.
Boushey Vineyard makes up two-thirds of this wine, with the rest coming from Seven Hills. Fruit-forward aromas of cranberry, cherry, plum and spice lead to a thoroughly charming fruit-laden palate that shows a lot of purity. It's unabashed in its appeal.
Bouvet Ladubay's rosé is a soft in style with a light fruit flavor dominated by fresh raspberries. There's also a touch of tannin in the texture, resulting in a sparkling wine that is more for food than an aperitif.
Bouza continues to lead the Uruguayan charge via wines like this Tannat, which is purple in color and concentrated on the nose, with blackberry pie and raisin aromas. A stout, full-bodied palate is chewy and oaky, while prune, blackberry, brine, char and toast flavors finish dark and spicy, with a raisiny note. Drink through 2017.
Bovale is a little-known indigenous grape from Sardinia. This opens with savory aromas of cured meat, chocolate, ripe fruit and prune. The close is bold, bitter and bright.
Bovale is a little-known red grape from Sardinia that offers smooth and rustic characteristics that recall dried tobacco, earth, black fruit and spice. The finish is long and polished, with nice concentration and intensity.
Bow Tie is planted to a variety of clones, including Swan and Rochioli. It is one of the winery's newest vineyard sources and this vintage is the first of its vineyard-designated wines from the site. Floral in anise, plum and raspberry, it is medium-bodied with a background of oak that picks up on the finish, offering seasonings of caramel and chocolate.
Boysenberries and olallieberries explode on the nose of this bottling by the ever-adventurous Riboli family, bolstered by dried tarragon and turned earth. It is wondrously smooth and silky on the sip, with rising blueberry fruit and tons of depth, offering dried sage and other roasting herbs as well as dark chocolate and espresso flavors.
Boysenberry and blueberry aromas are accented by violet notes and cedary oak. The wine is snappy and slightly reduced in feel, while flavors of rooty berry, herbs, spice and tree bark finish dry, with hints of tobacco and barbecue smoke. Drink now.
Boysenberry and blueberry aromas mixed with oak scents amount to an inviting, solid bouquet. In the mouth, this is healthy, full-bodied and showing plenty of kick. Flavors of berry fruits, plum and roasted notes end with jammy berry flavors and a good texture. Drink now–2015.
Boysenberry and blueberry form the fruit aromas on this wine made by the family of former Los Angeles Laker Sasha Vujacic. In addition, it features a dark black-dirt minerality, black olive, cinnamon bark and absinthe-like scents. The tannins coat the mouth along with blue and purple fruit flavors, and it ends with strong acidity.
Boysenberry and blueberry notes open this good value, straightforward red. The palate has the slightest grip and the finish is a bit longer than one has a right to expect at this price level.
Boysenberry and exotic notes of all-spice and cardamom set this Malbec apart from the field. In the mouth, this is typically angular, with sharp acidity and not much cushion. A one-note, linear flavor of rooty plum is neither fruity nor dry, while the finish fails to rise or fall; it just hums along on a singular beam of acid. Drink from 2018–2030.
Boysenberry and raspberry aromas are not simply dark, ripe and macho, but instead show herbal accents along with floral notes and cardamom. This is old vines Malbec with particular flavors of herbal, brushy berry and plum. On the finish, oaky spice, toast and coffee flavors keep the momentum going. Drink through 2021.
Boysenberry aromas and blackberry jam flavors fill this Bordeaux-style red blend to the brim, while a smooth texture and touch of sweetness make it an easy sipper. A great pairing for spicy Korean barbecue.
Boysenberry aromas are modest and lack spine. In the mouth, this is standard, with oak-based flavors of toast, chocolate and vanilla on top of generic berry. The finish is thick and oaky, with a touch of raisiny flavor.
Boysenberry, black fruit, bay leaf, plum and spice aromas are followed by intense but still well-balanced dark-fruit flavors. It stretches out on the finish, drinking extremely well now, but its best days are in front of it. Best from 2023–2030.
Boysenberry, black pepper, concentrated purple flowers and a touch of asphalt gather for a delicious nose on this blend of 47% Petite Sirah, 45% Syrah, 5% Grenache and 3% Mourvèdre. Flavors of purple fruit and flowers are elevated by boisterous acidity and peppery spice that singes the palate and makes the eyes water.
Boysenberry, black pepper, hot gravel and beef char show plenty of the 60% Syrah influence. The 40% Cabernet Sauvignon comes through more on the palate, where tart blueberries and violets shine, along with asphalt notes. It finishes with tart acidity.
Boysenberry, black plum, condensed rose petal and cola touches show on the nose of this clonal selection, which offers very purple-seeming aromas. Ripe black cherry fruit leads the palate, followed by rounded vanilla notes, over a backdrop of thyme, bay leaf and graphite.
Boysenberry, blueberry and black cherry aromas lead on the nose of this wine, with a touch of warmth and chocolaty sensation following behind. The palate veers more towards red-fruit flavors, with a thin midpalate and an astringent close.
Boysenberry, cassis and baked plum aromas give this a berry driven outlook. The palate is thick and saturated but well balanced, with blackberry, cassis, tea and herbal flavors. On the finish, plum, prune and baked flavors blend with spice to create a nice ending. Drink through 2016.
Boysenberry, cassis, woodsy spice and leathery aromas hit the right chords. This feels tight and juicy due to bright core acidity. A combination of spicy plum and red-berry aromas are intense and turn feral upon airing, while this limestone soil-based Syrah tastes of coffee, pepper, plum and various spices on a powerful finish. Drink through 2021.
Boysenberry, cherry and a touch of minerality take over the nose on this wine from Mike Rennie and Gary Winder, who are pioneering grape growers of the Temecula Valley. Tar and tobacco pair up with bright acidity and smooth oakiness on the palate, making for easy drinking.
Boysenberry, clove and wood spice aromas lead to tart, lightly styled fruit flavors that winnow toward the finish. The reserve designation seems hard to find.
Boysenberry, cracked peppercorn and caramel frame the nose of this rich red. Although not particularly complex, lush flavors of berry juice and espresso on the palate prove rather tasty and enjoyable.
Boysenberry, cracked rainbow peppercorns and dried rose petals show on the nose of this bottling, which plays to the lighter side of the grape. It's tart and brisk once sipped, with cranberry and pomegranate fruit given more complexity by a touch of wild fennel.
Boysenberry, dark cranberry and damp garden herbs show on the nose of this wine made in Santa Barbara's urban Eastside neighborhood. Dark red, bordering on purple fruits are lifted by a nice peppery spice along with a bit of sweet tar, combining for a thorough sipping experience.
Boysenberry, dried rose petals, lilac and lavender show on the nose of this iconic winery's affordable bottling. Pencil shavings show on the sip, where the dark purple and boysenberry fruits are cut by deft acidity.
Boysenberry, dried violets and black pepper show on the nose of this wine from a popular vineyard in the Alisos Canyon area near Los Alamos. The mouthfeel is lively, fresh and driven by a generous acidity, yet the flavors remain rich with purple fruits, licorice and black tobacco.
Boysenberry, violets and a touch of bacon fat show on the nose of this wine from a vineyard on Paso's Eastside. The palate is upright in both tannins and searing acidity, with flavors of tart blueberry and black peppercorn.
Brûléed banana and peach lead the aromatics and flavors of this French oak-aged Chardonnay blended with 15% Petit Manseng. A rich, creamy palate is balanced by a tart pineapple and lemon-curd vein, moving to a toasted vanilla finish.
Brûléed pastry crust and salted butter aromas overlay golden apple and spiced pear tones. The palate feels lax with curved acids, which lead to a light, yielding finish.
Bründlmayer's flagship wine is made from old vines grown on the Heiligenstein hill. It is as intense as a great Riesling can be, a pure expression of steel, mineral and bitter orange and pineapple flavors. It has great structure and a ripe, concentrated character. This will age long and well.
Bründlmayer makes a particularly felicitous brut, crisp, yeasty, with very pure green and white fruits. It has an intense minerality, tight, structured and finishing with great waves of toast. The wine spends three years on its lees, which shows in its density of flavor.
Bründlmayer, one of Austria's most famed winemakers, finds that the lyre method of training the vine gives significantly more concentration. That's certainly true of this rich, full, intense wine, with its powering acidity and flavors of almonds, white currants and cranberries.
Braccale is a drinkable, food-friendly wine. That's because this wine's naturally tempered elegance means it won't overpower what you eat. It delivers aromas of sweet red fruit, toasted nuts and has a crisp, spice-driven finish.
Brachetto d'Acqui is a sweet sparkling red wine that would pair with chocolate-based desserts or savory foods such as sliced salami and cold cuts. This expression is packed tight with lively berry fruit.
Brachetto is an easy dessert wine with a mild ruby color and intense aromas of raspberry and blueberry. The wine is exceedingly simple and straightforward with loads of fresh berry fruit, bitter almond, and not much else.
Bracing acidity forms the backbone of this wine. It's softened a bit by layers of fresh apple and pear, but overall, it's a dry, austere wine. Touches of pollen, dried herb and dust lend a savory, earthy tone that lingers on the finish.
Bracing acidity offsets plush and penetrating peach and marmalade flavors in this delightfully honeyed auslese. It's bold in flavor yet so sprightly in demeanor, finishing long on lingering tones of saffron and spice. It's delicious now but structured enough to continue to improve through at least 2026.
Bracing and bright, this shows definite Chardonnay characteristics, such as a buttery, apple pie aroma and vivid crisp apple and lemon flavors. Nothing is overblown, though, so it retains finesse. This will be great as an apéritif and even better with seafood after sitting down at the table.
Bracing and fresh, this crisp, red-berried Pinot Noir boasts an invigorating mineral sheen. It's a spry, slightly lean wine but framed elegantly with fine, feathery tannins. Drink now through 2018.
Bracing and full-bodied, this offers dried sour cherry, raisin and licorice flavors alongside raspy tannins that clench the finish. Give the tannins another few years to unwind then drink up before the remaining fruit disappears.
Bracing and tangy, this light-bodied wine has distinct melon aromas, similar flavors and tasty accents of white pepper and fresh fennel. While nicely reserved it also has complexity and great balance.
Bracing and tightly wound, this opens with subdued aromas of pressed rose, resin and a whiff of exotic spice. The evolved palate isn't in sync with the nose, offering raisin and a touch of anise as well as aggressive, astringent tannins that give it an abrupt, raspy finish. It's already drying out so drink now.
Bracing aromas of lemon and grapefruit meld into spice, caramel and red apple on the palate of this zesty off-dry Riesling. It's spry and lean yet juicy and gulpable. Drink now through 2019.
Bracing lemon and lime flavors are offset by streaks of luscious white peach and wildflower honey in this mouthwatering kabinett. While off dry and racy in style, it finishes long, enriched by creamy, lingering touches of hazelnut and cashew. Drinks gorgeously now, but has enough complexity and structure to evolve well through 2020.
Bracing notes of quince are the opening act for this fragrant, light-bodied quaffer. There's well-defined acidity in the mouth and zesty flavors of lime and grapefruit on the finish. A good choice for salty hors d'oeuvres.
Bracing notes of tangerine rind ease into plush, plump stone fruit in this delicately framed kabinett. It's packed with flavor, but sprightly and fleeting on the finish.
Bracing tones of lime and lemon accentuate the crush of mineral tones throughout this dry, revitalizing wine. Light bodied and spry, it's invigorating, rather than penetrating, but ideal as a palate-cleanser between heavy courses.
Bracingly effervescent bubbles offer aromas of baking soda, chalk and blood orange on this South Coast sparkler made from 82% Chardonnay and 18% Pinot Noir. The foamy palate offers inviting bubblegum and light cotton candy flavors, never sweet but very rounded and approachable in a crowd-pleasing way.
Bracingly tart, almost to the verge of tasting sour, this blend of grapes from several Dundee Hills vineyards has cool vintage flavors of spiced apple and rhubarb. The acids rule, suggesting that it be paired with fatty fish like salmon.
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.
Bradley Brown's Syrah magic shines again on this wine from a vineyard planted 2,300 feet over the eastside of the Salinas Valley. The wine is redolent on the nose, with black pepper, crushed violet and salted pork. It pulls a tannic punch to the mouth once sipped, with blackberry, leather, heavy-duty tar and persistent pepper. Decant for maximum flavor extraction.
Braide Alte is a beautiful blend of Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Picolit and Moscato Giallo (some of the main white grapes used in northern Italy) that shows sophisticated tones of stone fruit, melon, cinnamon spice and white almond. In the mouth, the wine shows length and luscious persistency.
Braised lamb shanks or cotechino sausage with lentils are two pairing possibilities for this dense wine. It has a bright touch of acidity that would clean the palate of those rich foods. The aromas of red cherry and tobacco are present, but won't overwhelm the food.
Bramaluce is a blend of Sangiovese and Syrah that opens with bold aromas of ripe fruit, blackberry jam and prune. The smoky finish adds a sophisticated twist. Some of the grapes used in the blend are air-dried on bamboo mats for added intensity.
Bramble and bright red cherry notes on the nose turn darker and riper on the palate of this spry, light-footed blend. Composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon with proportions of Cabernet Franc and the hybrid Noriet grape mixed in, it's an unusually delicate red.
Bramble and brine are present on the nose, and while 2005 was a very good vintage in Rioja, this wine brings a little less than expected. It's endowed with snappy red-fruit flavors of strawberry and raspberry, and there's also vanilla and herbal notes. The feel is dry, medium-bodied and grabby, with a hint of stemmy snap.
Bramble and burning brush on the nose, while the palate is murky as it delivers tomato leaf, baked plum and carob flavors. Seems sort of cooked and funky, with a muddled mouthfeel. The 2005 is a cleaner, more focused wine.
Bramble and cedar, along with plenty of toasty vanillin oak. Black currant is the dominant fruit; the mouthfeel is appropriately big, and the finish turns a bit dry, but with proper length. Very nice in the typical Napa mold.
Bramble and dried herbs, pressed apple and peach notes blend elements of savory and sweet in this complex Spätlese. Shimmering lemon-lime acidity refreshes the midpalate, leaving lingering tones of finely crushed mineral.
Bramble and dusty mineral notes extend from nose to finish in this dry Riesling, lending a savory tone to freshly pressed apple and dried orange peel flavors. Its voluminous, mouth-filling texture is pleasant, balanced neatly by a strike of lemonade acidity.
Bramble and dusty mineral tones lend a savoriness to this zesty lime-tinged wine. It's still tightly wound, showing more earth than fruit, but it's a fresh citrusy wine with vitality. The finish is just a shade off dry.
Bramble and forest floor, cherry cola and savory bresaola notes amount to pretty aromatics with less bulkiness in the mouth. The structure is there but this wine is a bit dry, sharp and less fleshy than many others.
Bramble and green tobacco notes are part of the bouquet, as is rubbery dark fruit. The palate is smooth in feel but a little herbal and leafy, with a mix of berry fruit and mild green notes.
Bramble and herb notes are prominent on the nose, but subside into succulent white grapefruit and tangerine on the palate of this cheerful off-dry Riesling. Sunny acidity adds to its approachable, easygoing feel. Drink now.
Bramble and mint leaves lend a fresh, savory feel to luscious black plum and cherry flavors in this spry, medium-bodied Cabernet Franc. It's juicy and forward but anchored by crisp acidity and complex notes of smoke and graphite. Drink now through 2018.
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.
Bramble and red berry aromas are attractive and almost exotic. Feels a bit furry and scratchy, but tastes of blueberry with an herbal tinge. Finishes well, with a pinch of minty green flavor.
Bramble and red fruits combine with spicy incense and oily coffee beans on the nose. Feeling viscous in the mouth, there are prominent flavors of coffee, clove, nutmeg and dried red plum. The tannins are bold, structured and well integrated, giving a crushed velvet feel. The finish is long with evolving flavors.
Bramble and savory herbs add a green, earthy character to preserved black cherry and plum flavors in this dry, full-bodied Merlot. The tannins are penetrating, but velvety in structure, and extend long on the cherry-kissed finish.
Bramble notes mingle alongside fresh lemon and pear in this off-dry Riesling, lending a savory, earthy tone throughout. Bright citrus flavors lead a brisk, clean finish. Drink now.
Bramble patch aromas evoke the entire bush: from stems to berries. A raspberry Jell-O note mingles with juicy red cherry on the light-bodied palate, making this a great crowd-pleasing wine.
Bramble wood and savory herbs lend earthiness to this ripe, juicy wine. Fruit-forward in style, the palate bursts with black currants and cherry flavors. Soft acidity and a whisper of tannins on the finish keep the mouthfeel plush.
Bramble, leather and red fruit make for a decent nose, while the palate is basically deep and fruity, with an emphasis on blackberry and cherry flavors. For the most part the wine has structure and feel, although there's a spot of bitterness on the finish.
Bramble, smoke and charred wood notes add rusticity to the subtle red-cherry and plum flavors. The full-bodied palate is earthy, with tones of dried mushroom and leaf that are marked by big, chunky tannins. It finishes surprisingly sweetly, with a bright red-raspberry note.
Bramble, violet and leather notes lend complexity to this fruity but elegantly composed Merlot. Ripe plum and cherry flavors are plump but pristine, brightened by crisp acidity and a smooth velvety finish of tannins. Drinks well already but should improve through 2021.
Bramble, wet slate, nori, red spice and a smoky, iodine-like element show on the nose of this bottling. The palate offers dried red fruit and a gamy quality, dashed with oregano, marjoram and a cigar-like spice.
Bramble, wild cherry and touches of dill and bay leaf show on the nose of this bottling. The palate, which is thick with tannins though not too rich, shows damp and dewy flavors of marjoram and oregano, with cedar and black rock giving backbone to the tart cherry fruit.
Brambleberry, pepper and smoke lead this distinctive red blend from Capaia. Red berries, pepper and spice have South African character, and are enlivened by good acidity and a minerally finish. A refreshing but savory everyday red; pair with lamb or game.
Brambles and undergrowth aromas give this wine a curious character reflected in the wild strawberry flavors that are not linked to the tannins. This seven-acre Thienpont family property is run by Jan, who has several wine projects, and Florian, who came to wine as a chef.
Brambly and a bit herbaceous, this blend of Cabernet Franc and Lemberger offers crisp black currant and berry flavors accented by hints of cedar and toast. While bold in body, it's a bit delicate in concentration, finishing with a lingering fringe of fine-textured tannins.
Brambly and herbal, this wine shows bright acidity underlying a full-bodied, incoherently ripe palate of tar, toffee and rich cola notes.
Brambly and leafy on the nose and palate, with tight acidity and reedy, peppery flavors that suggest foresty raspberry. The finish is equally peppery, herbal and leafy, but overall it's not green or unappealing. A natural wine in that it's unoaked.
Brambly and spicy red and black fruit mark this mighty Cabernet, sourced from the famed To Kalon Vineyard in the heart of Oakville. Despite its name it offers only Good Times, a well-composed, unabashedly hedonistic taste of juicy ripe Napa fruit and overtly lush tannins.
Brambly and stalky berry fruit aromas come with citrus and leafy accents. The palate is sheer and tannic, with candied, spiced, red fruit flavors. Heat and burning acidity make the finish rather rough.
Brambly and tart, with a peppery, leathery nose. It's zesty, lightly concentrated Garnacha with zingy, mouth-burning raspberry and plum flavors. A sharp, reticent wine in every way. Imported by USA Wine Imports.
Brambly and wild on the nose, this Cafayate Malbec features a narrow palate with edgy, briary plum and berry flavors. This seems riper with time in the glass, but all the way through it's pinchy in feel and ultimately ends with candied sweetness.
Brambly aromas mix with notes of herbs, red cherry, coffee and sweet barrel spices. The flavors are full bodied and high octane. It teeters at times but pulls the balance back together nicely.
Brambly aromas of leather, mint and berries lead to a fresh, fruity, pulpy palate with a jammy feel. Lightly herbal berry, plum and spice flavors finish with a touch of minty green.
Brambly aromas precede sour flavors of pie cherry and green strawberry. A sheering wine that's miserly even by Funky Llama's standards. The best that can be said about this tart Malbec is that it isn't overripe or sappy.
Brambly berries and blue plums anchor the flavors of this lovely Syrah, sourced from the Lewis Vineyard. The balance of natural acids and lightly astringent tannins keeps the fruit razor sharp, and the highlights of red licorice add dimension. Drink now or over the next five years.
Brambly berries, plum and sweet-spice aromas lead on the bouquet of this wine, with secondary hints of tree bark and licorice root. The palate turns to dark fruit notes of black cherry and boysenberry, accented by glimmers of sweet smoke and cocoa. Creamy and lush in the mouth with a texture like crushed velvet and an enduring finish. Drink now–2015.
Brambly berry and heaps of brown sugar combine for a thick, soft and richly layered wine that pushes the limits in terms of ripeness. It has small amounts of Mourvèdre, Charbono and Carignane blended throughout and was aged in one-third new French oak.
Brambly berry and leather aromas are rustic. This Malbec is hard and acidic. Short, generic plum and berry flavors don't expand or improve on the finish.
Brambly berry and wood notes lend complexity to the luscious cassis and black cherry flavors. It's intensely concentrated with fruit, but bright bursts of acidity and layers of fresh sage and thyme add balance, leading to a long, harmonious finish. Drink now–2020.
Brambly berry aromas include a note of blueberry as well as a hint of oaky char. This Tannat feels wiry as things condense at the center of the palate. Peppery spice and blackened oak flavors are more out front than the fruit, while this is toasty on the finish.
Brambly berry flavors carry a streak of cola throughout this wine, 80% of which was whole-cluster fermented. The pleasant fruit is somewhat offset with chalky acids and drying tannins.
Brambly berry fruit is dotted with highlights of black pepper and tart tangy herbs. The acids are way out in front of the fruit, delivering a citrusy, lightly toasty kick to the finish.
Brambly berry fruit, with a hint of herb around the edges, marks this wine. Along with the Cabernet, there are smaller amounts of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, showing well-integrated barrel notes of coffee and roasted walnuts, and smooth tannins.
Brambly berry fruits are rounded out with smooth tannins and some barrel toast, from 10 months in 30% new French oak. This is a most enjoyable wine, though it feels a bit diffuse, rather than tightly focused.
Brambly berry pushes front and center, with well-modulated notes of dried herb, black olive and bark. This is structured, balanced and immediately drinkable, but should keep through 2022.
Brambly blackberry and cassis fruit dominates the overall character of this wine, with additional hints of cedary spice and black tea leaves unfolding in the background. A touch of cocoa flavor dusts the medium-length finish, while soft tannins and medium acidity make this an easy drinker now.
Brambly blackberry and leathery tar make for a full-bodied atmosphere around what is actually a fairly light, integrated and smooth wine. Clove and black currant give the finish a spicy edge.
Brambly boysenberry, blackberry liqueur and crème de cassis lead the nose and mouth of this attractive wine, with waves of cigar-box spice, mentholated herbs and leather adding intrigue. It's firmly structured and packed with black-fruit flavors, resulting in a crushed-velvet texture. The finish is long and evolving, and this should continue to develop well through 2022.
Brambly cassis and raspberry aromas are warm and a touch cooked. This is bullish, heavy and grabby in feel, with big tannins. Blackberry, cassis, herb and chocolate flavors finish ripe and dark. Drink through 2017.
Brambly cherry fruit carries a generous amount of vanilla and clove highlights, along with a lightly smoky aroma of Earl Grey tea. Such details bring the wine to a deliciously satisfying finish.
Brambly earth and ripe raspberry invite one in on the nose before a taste of soft, lush spice on the palate. The earthiness continues through the midpalate and finish, with notes of mushroom and forest floor that linger through the close.
Brambly in blackberry jam, this is a fairly elegant and restrained version of the variety for the area. The mountain-grown grapes provide substantial tannins and a dusty taste of wood. Coffee marks the abbreviated finish.
Brambly notes that recall forest berry and wild blueberry are backed by a very attractive mineral vein that holds this wine's aromas tightly together. This is a crisp, bright Barbera d'Asti with a touch of bitter almond on the close.
Brambly on the nose, with equally challenging and drying flavors of cranberry and rhubarb. There's very little to say about this stripped-down Cabernet other than that it's generally clean and not brutally offensive.
Brambly plum and leafy berry aromas are quite typical of value-priced Chilean Merlot. The wine has a good mouthfeel and solid structure, with bright but basic berry fruit flavors. Short and generic on the finish. Good for the price.
Brambly plum and red berry aromas and a lush, full palate make this both approachable and great to drink on its own. Plum, berry and pepper on the palate are smooth and elegant, and the finish is soft and poised.
Brambly raspberry aromas are accented with a dusting of minerals on this dry, refreshing rosé. The palate is delicate with subtle red-cherry flavor but finishes elegantly with a lingering cherry blossom perfume.
Brambly red-fruit aromas mix with notes of sweet milk chocolate and dust. It feels crisp, tight and fresh, with raspberry and lightly herbal plum flavors. This finishes taut and fruity. A blend of 75% Garnacha and 25% Tempranillo.
Brambly red-fruit aromas of currants and pie cherry are on the sharp side, while the palate is clacky and tannic, with crisp red-plum, herb and wayward oak flavors. Finishes full and rugged, with toasty heat and an herbal aftertaste. Not a bad wine but it's fairly typical for Chilean Merlot.
Brambly red berry and sour cherry notes are fleshy and ripe in this brawny, full-bodied Bordeaux-style blend. It's unabashedly primary in style with soft, plushy texture. Finishes with a bit of heat.
Brambly red cherry and strawberry are featured among shy layers of oak, providing the wine with an interesting duality of power and silkiness on the palate. A complex streak of minerality makes this intriguingly seductive and exotic, with layers of flavor unfolding with each sip.
Brambly red fruit, bell pepper and spice tones settle on a chunky, jammy palate without much spine or structure. Berry and plum flavors come with a briny aftertaste, while the finish is herbal in character.
Brambly smelling, with tomato, green herb and rhubarb aromas. Nervy and tight in the mouth, with minty, spicy flavors that keep any fruit character in the distance. Scratchy and tannic as well.
Brambly wine, with hedgerow red fruits and bitter black cherries. It's very floral, crisp, the tannins suggesting some aging potential. To finish, the acidity is fresh and lively.
Brambly with a mild vineagary sourness to the nose. The palate is tart, crisp and scratchy, with sweet-and-sour flavors of plum, herbs and even grass. Finishes green and challenged. Kind of weak for $17.
Brambly, herbaceous notes lend a dark, savory tone to preserved apple and peach flavors in this spätlese. Dusty minerals add some complexity to the mid-palate.
Brambly, leathery and roasted on the nose, this features raspberry and plum aromas in the backdrop. It feels fresh, clampy and forward, with a mix of leather, herb, plum, tomato and spice flavors. A solid wine with traditional Rioja character.
Brambly, leathery aromas of berry fruits, plum and spice set up a high-acid, broad palate with a strong sense of brightness and electricity. Flavors of roasted berries come with raciness and notes of spice and chocolate. Things remain zesty and bright on the finish, where residual acidity creates energy to spare. Drink through 2019.
Brambly, lightly herbal aromas of berry fruit, sugar beet and a touch of chemical precede a wiry, narrow palate with briary flavors of herbal berry and cassis. A tannic, crimped finish is rugged and houses cherry flavors and heat.
Brancott's top Pinot Noir is a round, mouth-filling wine that finishes tart and long. Cranberry, mocha, roasted parsnip, mushroom and smoke notes make for a complex wine that may be enjoyed now and over the next several years.
Brandborg has established a style that is well-suited to the locale, and their Pinots are perfectly balanced and mix in spices and fresh herbs with the tart, cool climate fruit. This is a crisp, unpretentious style of Oregon Pinot.
Brandborg really knocks it out of the park with this Gewürztraminer, the strongest in a very solid lineup of white wines. It perfectly captures the oily, floral essence of the grape, in a dense, focused wine loaded with citrus oil, Key lime, and tropical fruits. Great length and balance, as with all the Brandborg white wines.
Brander's annual Bordeaux blend features 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. There is ripe boysenberry, cedar and worn leather on the nose, followed by Bing cherry flavors on the palate, where acidity and a light body combine for a lively finish.
Brander's Au Naturel is the winery's highest expression of unoaked Sauvignon Blanc, and the 2011 is one of their greatest ever. Dry and crisp with acidity, it's fabulously complex with flavors of citrus and tropical fruit, green apple, gooseberry, minerals, spices and dried herbs.
Brander's basic Syrah is a good, dry wine, and while it's a little on the light side, it has pretty flavors of blackberries, black pepper, cola and black currants. The alcohol is nice and low, under 14%.
Brander's first Sauvignon Blanc of the cool 2011 vintage is delicious: It tastes dryish to slightly off-dry, with excellent acidity brightening the citrus and tropical fruit flavors.
Brander's Sauvignon Blancs are so rich in their own right, they don't even need oak. But when you take a good one, as this is, and add some new French barrels, it becomes even richer. Blended with 35% Semillon, this wine has serious weight and texture, with complex layers of citrus and tropical fruits, buttercream, vanilla and toast. It's a very nuanced white wine, so do not drink it too cold.
Brandied berry, coconut and marzipan aromas are ripe and heady for CVNE, but super inviting. In the mouth, this is structured and firm, with plenty of acidic cut and snap. Coconut and balsamic berry are the lead flavors, while the finish is herbal and shows a pinch of saltiness along with a dry feel. Drink through 2025.
Brandied cherry and cassis aromas are candied and gritty, but get better with airing. The wine is full in body and endowed with just enough acidity. Flavors of baked berry are earthy at the core, with accents of chocolate and herbs. A mellow, not overpowering finish is dry and slightly complex. Drink through 2017.
Brandied cherry aromas are a touch stalky and hot, but overall this opens well. Edgy in feel, this Cab shows baked berry flavors and scratchy acidity in front of a stalky, roasted tasting finish.
Brassfield's Sauvignon Blanc is proving to be a good investment in a modestly priced, dry white wine of that variety. With a dash of Sémillon for richness, the wine is crisply acidic, with rich flavors of pineapples, honeysuckle, green apples, green melons and figs.
Brassfield is establishing a fine track record with this wine. It's wonderfully crisp and clean in acidity, with pure flavors of citrus fruits, lemongrass, apricots, wildflowers and white pepper. Fine as an aperitif sipper, or with almost anything that wants a dry, zesty white.
Brassy in color and woody in aroma, this Chardonnay is a pleasant enough drink, offering ample weight and modest pear and citrus flavors. Drink it through 2017.
Braucol, hardly found outside Gaillac, produces a deep, dark-colored wine. This powerful wine is rich, smooth and still very young. It is packed to the limits with dark tannins and flavors of its wood aging. Drink from 2017.
Bravo to Long Point for making a Cabernet that counts in a cool climate. Rich aromas of anise, mocha and tobacco lead into structured, complex flavors of red berry, cigar and cassis. Spicy but balanced and slightly big, the wine will be great with grilled meat and stew.
Brawny and brooding, this rich wine shows a density of flavor and personality. Plum, strawberry and leathery black pepper form its core.
Brawny and concentrated in black fruit, this wine includes 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and is touted as a Cab-lover's Merlot by the winery. It indeed is, with its juicy blackberry, cherry, espresso and clove notes, while remaining varietally correct in terms of its mellowed tannins.
Brawny and forward, it leads with alluring fragrances of blue flower, underbrush, forest berries, balsamic herbs and leather. The juicy palate delivers mature wild cherry layered with white pepper, cinnamon, thyme and mint. While already deliciously accessible, it should develop some complexity in the next few years but don't hold too long. Drink through 2019.
Brawny and fruity, this wine has a hot mouthfeel from high alcohol, accentuating the tannins. The blackberry and cherry flavors taste stewed. But the finish is dry.
Brawny and rustic, this Cab has some sharp edges, but satisfies for ripe blackberry, currant and cedar flavors. Needs rich meats and cheeses to mellow it. Drink now.
Brawny and tasty at the same time, this combines oak, vanilla and cherry aromas with very full body, ripe and broad boysenberry flavors and firm tannins. A slightly hot finish echoes the spicy oak notes. The texture is firm and tannic, making it a good counterpoint to rich food.
Brawny aromas of asphalt, roofing tar and rubber are balanced by smooth, deep blackberry and cassis scents. This is tannic and rugged, but the palate also offers buttery, oaky richness and depth. Heavily toasted plum and blackberry flavors finish with heat and a taste of dark chocolate. Drink through 2019.
Brawny but lovely, with monster black fruit, balsam wood, tobacco and cola nut aromas. The palate is ultra rich and modern in style, with deep, brandied flavors of cola, black cherry and spice. Driven, modern and properly tannic, with a fair amount of mocha and creaminess on the finish. Drink from late 2010 thru 2014.
Brawny but polished, this dark-colored and full-bodied Bordeaux-style blend has a tantalizing aroma of cedar and cigar box, then rich but bright fruit flavors and a satisfying layered and tannic texture. Great acidity and just-ripe fruit help it balance out the handsome oaky character and firm tannins. Best after 2019.
Brawny in blackberry, blueberry and black pepper, with a shake of cinnamon, this is a soft, complex wine with leathery undertones. From steep, volcanic-soiled vines, it's appropriately tannic without being overbearing.
Brawny in flavorful black cherry, this well-crafted wine from a prime vineyard is plush with cinnamon and structured tannins. Floral in aroma, it tastes of strawberry and black cherry, with a seasoning of black pepper on the finish. Drink now through 2023.
Brawny in tannin weight and grip, this tight-knit wine is impressively built and in tune with the vintage and its embrace of strength and complexity. Chalky texture is highlighted in tart mountain cherry, graphite and vanilla laced in clove. Enjoy best 2023–2033.
Brawny tannins meet mild acidity in this powerful, rich wine that's full-bodied and decadent. Chocolate, mocha and caramel notes are etched into its soft, rounded layers of generous red fruit.
Brawny tones of oak spice, milled pepper, eucalyptus, hummus and Bengay are followed by a delicate touch of menthol freshness. Balsam notes of dried rosemary and ginger are divine. Give this wine a few minutes in your glass and a few years in the cellar to evolve even further.
Brawny, baked aromas include hints of animal, cola, blackberry and prune. This is fleshy, wide and fairly soft in build. Concentrated, blackened berry flavors share the stage with creamy oak and notes of vanilla and marshmallow. A chewy, soft finish is a bit mushy, so drink now.
Brawny, bone dry and peppery, a big, full-bodied blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon that needs decanting or aging to make it drinkable. Hard tannins overwhelm the blackberries, mulberries and cedar. Try late 2010.
Brawny, briary, rustic, tannic, fruity, these are just a few words to describe this wine. It's a true barbecue companion, a big, powerful, full-bodied wine with blackberry and pepper flavors. Drink now and through 2012.
Brawny, toasty aromas prop up a sturdy oaky nose with a familiar dark-berry core. This Malbec is tightly wound, with wiry acidity. Flavors of blackberry, cassis, spiced plum, chocolate and cardamom finish earthy and mellow, with a lingering note of exotic spice. Drink through 2022.
Brawny, with a bite, this wine offers juicy blackberry and black cherry, along with Cab-like elements of clove that give spiciness. Medium bodied and well integrated, it was aged entirely in neutral oak, allowing the fruit to shine.
Brawny, with an explosive concentration of blackberry, this intense wine offers hints of tobacco, smoked meat and black licorice elevated on the palate. Blended with small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, it finishes on a bittersweet note and with some black pepper. Cellar through 2020.
Bread-like, yeasty aromas adorn a simple thickness of smoky char, dark cherry and bold concentration in this wine, which seems heartier than the varietal tends to be.
Bread and lemon, rather than primary fruit, denotes the scent. The dry and restrained palate is serious and values yeasty autolytic notes above fruit. There is lemon freshness among the yeast and bread flavors and a dry, almost severe finish.
Bread and yeast notes are up front while the full-bodied palate offers adequate acidity that maintains freshness. Melon, papaya and peach flavors finish clean, but with no complexity.
Bread and yeasty aromas lead to a wine that has tannins and wood aging, leaving the fruitiness behind.
Bread crust and golden apple aromas lead the way and follow through to the lively palate along with citrus zest and toasted hazelnut. Bright acidity and brisk, persistent bubbles offset the rich flavors.
Bread crust, citrus, chopped herb and orchard fruit aromas lift out of the glass. The vibrant palate offers lime, nectarine and toasted hazelnut alongside vibrant acidity. An elegant mousse carries through to the crisp, bone-dry finish.
Bread crust, ripe orchard fruit and citrus zest aromas lift out of the glass. On the lively, tense palate, racy acidity underscores lime, pear and a hint of hazelnut. It's a bit nervous so give it another year two to come together.
Bread crust, toast and citrus zest aromas lead the nose on this creamy sparkler. The soft, frothy palate presents ripe apple, white peach and toasted hazelnut. Small, persistent bubbles lift the finish.
Bread, apple cider and yeasty complexity grace the nose on this Brut Nature. A smooth palate is now mature, ready and doesn't scrape or scour. Dry stone-fruit flavors blend with apple notes in front of a bready, toasty finish that has seltzer-like crispness. Drink through 2020.
Bread, vanilla cookie and pear scents drive the bouquet on this nature Cava. A citrusy, medium-bodied palate shows flavors of cider, brined apple and mixed citrus fruits, while the finish is salty, with notes of orange and grapefruit.
Bready and lightly maderized, with less than fresh aromas. There's weight and maturity to this Cava along with doughy apple flavors. Sputters and flattens on the finish, which is chunky.
Bready and yeasty smelling upfront, this feels round but also dry on the palate. Briny, pickled, yeasty flavors lead way to a salty finish. Quickly dissipating bubbles render it more of a demi-sec.
Bready apple and spice aromas are layered, mildly complex and appealing. In the mouth, this is dry, leesy and tastes of toasted apple and nectarine. The finish hits the spot with proper weight, balance and lively acidity. Excellence in Cava may be fleeting, but this makes the grade.
Bready apple aromas carry the nose. The palate is plump but low on bubbles and acidity. Drab flavors of woodspice and cinnamon rest heavily over a finish that tastes like spiced applesauce.
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.
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.
Bready aromas of baked apple, lees and vanilla convey quality. This feels solid and healthy, with length and depth to the palate. Apple, papaya and honeydew flavors are ripe and smooth, while the finish shows honey and green-herb notes.
Bready orange-like aromas are a touch spent and oxidized. This is soft but still in balance, with yeasty, dry flavors of cantaloupe. On the finish, this Trepat rosat turns heavier, with almost no pop. Drink immediately.
Bready white-fruit aromas are a touch funky and difficult to gauge. In the mouth, this is foamy but secure, with lemon-lime and nectarine flavors. This feels precise on the finish, with mild yeast and bread flavors.
Bready, dusty aromas of baked apple come across loud and chunky. The palate is juicy at its core but low on bubbles, while flavors of citrus, baked apple and yeast finish long and toasty, with some richness.
Bready, oxidized aromas are imprecise and lacking in fruit. This is a blend of Palomino, Rufete Blanca and Moscatel from Salamanca, which is off the beaten path. A plump but flat palate of yeasty white-fruit flavors lacks zest on a fading finish. Drink now.
Bready, slightly oxidized aromas of yeasty white fruits, vanilla and brine are challenging. In the mouth, this is juicy and intense, with green herbs, brine and pithy citrus flavors. A slightly pickled tasting finish hints at sauerkraut and bitter lime. Prior wines from this producer were better.
Bready, stalky aromas run low on fruit while showing odd, unwelcome scents of peanut and sulfur. Gaseous, mealy flavors of yeasty citrus fruits finish heavy, with an oxidized quality.
Bready, yeasty apple and pear aromas come with grassy hints and notes of green herbs. As a brut nature, it's no surprise that this hits with straight-ahead acidity and crispness. Flavors of sourdough bread, lemon and golden apple finish stony, tight and minerally. Drink through 2019.
Bready, yeasty, oxidized aromas open this up. In the mouth, this is elegant to an extent, with residual acidity keeping things alive. Flavors of white grapefruit finish round and smooth.
Break out the barbecue and enjoy with this simple, lusty Zin. It's dry with raspberry, cherry and spice flavors.
Break out the barbecue for this lusty, slightly rustic Zinfandel. Brings out the variety's briary, brambly personality, with wild berry, thyme, pepper and currant flavors that finish hot with alcohol.
Break out the barbecue for this lusty, tannic, rustic Petite Sirah. It's thick and fruity and dry, with blackberry, currant, leather and spice flavors.
Break out the barbecue, relax and enjoy this savory wine. It's classic Dry Creek Zin in a drink-me-now way. Dry, medium-bodied and gentle in tannins, it features lip-smacking flavors of pepper, red currants, tobacco and anise.
Break out the barbecued burgers and ribs for this lusty, hearty red wine. It's dry and very tannic, with earthy flavors of blackberries, currants and spices.
Break out the hors d'oeuvres for this tart young Pinot Grigio. It needs food to balance it out. The acid-backed flavors are savory, and include Meyer lemons, limes, lemongrass and sweet butter. Try with delicious little fish and pork appetizers baked in phyllo.
Break out the pizza with tomato sauce and gooey, oily mozzarella. That's what this tough, gritty Bordeaux-style blend with added Sangiovese needs to soften and mellow. It's a good wine, ripe in berries and spices, but rustic.
Break out the prosciutto-wrapped figs and stuffed mushroom appetizers for this light, silky rosé. It's crisp in acidity and delicate in the mouth, with assertive raspberry, orange tea and honey flavors. This is one of the more successful Pinot Noir rosés out there.
Breathtaking lime acidity pierces through this ebulliently fruity kabinett. The palate is a crush of sweet, fresh yellow peach and apricot flavors, lined by a steely edge of minerality. It's fleeting and frail in mouthfeel yet packs a firm punch through a lingering finish. Drink now through 2020 to enjoy its youthful vitality.
Breathtaking scents of white peach and blossom introduce this pristinely peachy wine. It's invigoratingly fresh, laced by a gossamer fringe of sweetness and vivacious lemon-lime acidity that lingers on and on. Delicately textured yet deeply penetrating.
Breathtakingly blossomy from nose to finish, this is textbook Mosel spätlese. On the palate, pristine white peach and apricot flavors are cut by a razor-edged streak of acidity. Shimmering minerality and a delicately filigreed sweetness linger.
Breezily aromatic notes of juniper, cypress and lemon zest overlay ripe and juicy peach tones on the nose. The palate is centered on pink grapefruit peel, with a toned, concentrated body that buffers the fresh acidity and delivers a softer style. Everything is tightly held, as in a bud that still needs to open. This is a wine for the long run. Future pleasures are indicated by those multifaceted aromas. Ready from 2016.
Breezy lime notes, tinged with yeasty, stony savor appear first. The palate brings more rounded savoriness, reminiscent of yellow miso. Across the slender palate citrus notes shimmer alongside hints of fresh green and ripe pear flesh. Pepper edges in delightfully and leaves you refreshed, enlivened and thirsty for more.
Breezy, light lemon freshness emanates from this refreshing wine that is as barely there as a cool mountain breeze. Very clean and totally fresh with the slightest amount of spritz.
Breezy, refreshing grapefuit notes lift the nose on this wine. The clean-cut palate shows a purity of citrus and more generous, ripe peach. It's beautifully balanced and very fruit-driven. Drink soon for maximum fruit.
Breezy, zesty stoniness is overlaid with lemon freshness, suggesting a slender wine. However, the palate is rounded and generous, with layers of red apple, Comice pear, honeydew melon and orange zest. The finish is whistle clean and that counterpoint of breezy freshness and rounded ripeness makes you want to sip more.
Breggo has produced a fine, ageable Pinot Noir from this highly regarded vineyard. The wine is medium-bodied and dry, with a silky texture and complex, charming flavors of black and red cherries, cola, sweet leather, Asian spices and sandalwood. Delicious now and should hold through 2013.
Bressan proves that Pinot Grigio can obtain sky high levels of sophistication. This saturated, almost amber-colored wine is rich with opulent honey, apricot, maple syrup, baked pear and pungent pinesap. It's extremely rich, long-lasting and sports a complex, almost prickly personality.
Brewer Cris Carter, who works at Golden Road Brewery in Los Angeles, also makes stunning wines, in this case from John Sebastian Vineyard, showing a lush cherry-vanilla nose that's tightened with iron, iodine and earth. It's soft on the palate, with violet and rose petal florals and plum-skin tartness in the midpalate.
Brezza's finely nuanced Cannubi expression of Nebbiolo delivers sweet spice tones of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg followed by delicate tones of root beer, drying mineral, soy sauce and forest fruit. The wine is fine, compact and chiseled on the close with a long, structured finish. It's very elegant overall.
Brian and Stephy Terrizzi have added this luxury-level bottling to their more affordably focused brand of wines, and it's an impressive addition. A deep and dense nose unleashes blackberries, licorice, crushed volcanic rocks, sexy dark chocolate, violet and black spice. Flavors of olallieberry and creamy dark and milk chocolate erupt on the palate, held together by soft tannins and energetic acidity. Drink 2017–2033.
Brian Croser's efforts with Tiers Vineyard Chardonnay have finally paid off in a big way. This is a plump, amply textured wine that doesn't lack for elegance, marrying scents and flavors of toasted grain with white peaches and hazelnuts. Long and intense on the finish, echoing with toasty oak but also layers of vibrant fruit. Drink now–2015.
Brian Loring's bottling does this excellent vineyard justice, offering aromas of pear, apple and white peach laced together with buttercream and crushed vanilla. The palate offers buttered nectarines at first, and then unwinds into bright acidity and a line of chalkiness.
Brian Loring's bottling of this vineyard planted by Gary Pisoni and Gary Franscioni is bursting with raspberry syrup, cola and peppercorns on the nose. The palate boasts notes of strawberry juice, red berries and hibiscus. It's luxurious and sexy.
Brian Loring makes this spicy wine from a vineyard in the hills overlooking Highway 101 east of Nipomo. Cinnamon powder pumps up aromas of pomegranate, saddle leather and raspberry. It's lively with chai spices and typical cranberry juice at first, then the acidic structure reveals a more savory side, with cherry tomato, tapenade and dried meats on the finish.
Briar and rhubarb aromas suggest stemminess, but the palate is fairly clean and clear, with tight, rubbery tannins supporting red fruit flavors of cherry and plum. Short, rubbery and unexceptional, but good enough despite a whiff of green that's probably due to the Cabernet in the wine.
Briar fruit aromas show notes of moss, leather and herbs on the nose. This is solid, chewy and tannic, with blackberry flavors that are herbal along the edges and a bit green in the middle. A spicy, dark note marks the finish, with a hint of coffee.
Briar patch, some green pepper and a little sweet baking spice carry the nose. The plum and berry flavors are accented by brown sugar and caramel, but also some green characteristics. The finish is smooth, but too green.
Briar spice, olive and asphalt aromas create a firm bouquet of black plum and blackberry at the core. This feels lively and serious, with black olive, herb, licorice, chocolate and dark-berry flavors. Herbal notes, blackened toast and mocha flavors on the finish are typical for Chile. Drink through 2019.
Briary and powerful smelling, with leathery aromas of blackberry and dark plum, this heavily extracted Malbec is grabby and tannic. Earthy, roasted blackberry and leathery flavors end with simmering heat. This is a big, fruity and gripping Malbec.
Briary and prickly smelling, with juicy acidity, a lean structure and tart pie cherry and red plum flavors. Expect a light, translucent Pinot that emphasizes freshness and crisp acidity.
Briary and rubbery smelling, this also shows aromas of leafy herbal plum. Fairly pinched and tannic, this delivers a raw mouthfeel. Skins-based flavors of plum and currant are slightly bitter, while the finish pinches like the palate.
Briary berry and cassis aromas are spicy and solid. In the mouth, this Carmenère is raw and tartaric in feel. Salty plum, coffee and herbal green flavors finish about the same, with a note of cured meat and residual acidic tang.
Briary berry and cedar flavors are marred by less ripe notes of green herbs. It's dry, tannic and spicy.
Briary berry and milk chocolate aromas lead to a tart, alert palate full of red berry, sour plum, vanilla and spice flavors. Juicy acidity creates a long, racy finish that brings lasting raspberry character.
Briary berry aromas come with hints of leather and animal. This feels dense, jammy and a bit gummy, while flavors of blueberry, chocolate and baked black plum finish chewy and a touch sticky.
Briary berry aromas come with notes of mint and oak-based vanilla scents. Earthy berry, prune and licorice flavors finish with rooty spice and mild herbal notes.
Briary berry flavors highlight this estate-grown Malbec. It's flecked with pepper throughout a medium-length finish.
Briary berry, leather and animal aromas comprise the bouquet on this full-forced effort. Astringent and jumpy in feel, it has piercing acidity, propelling the tangy flavors of berry, currant and plum. It's toasty, offering a pinch of tobacco on the finish. Drink 2013–2017.
Briary plum and cherry cough-drop aromas give way to a crisp, fairly full palate with chewy tannins. Plum and peppery spice flavors are kept simple, while this finishes with some dark-berry character and a touch of bitterness.
Briary plum and minty oak aromas lead to a sharp palate with high acidity. Tart flavors of red plum and currant blend with spice and tomato notes in front of a saucy, high-toned, high-acid finish.
Briary plum, cherry and lemony oak aromas ride high on this dark, aggressive PN. Feels full and bullish, with dark, lemony flavors that suggest black fruit but never really get there. Finishes fiery, with size and heat.
Briary raspberry and tomato aromas open this light-bodied Pinot. The palate is linear in feel, with lightly herbal, currant flavors that finish on accents of resiny oak.
Briary red-fruit aromas are earthy and mellow, with notes of red-apple skin and raspberry. This is medium in body, fresh and feels good on the palate. Plum, raspberry and vanilla flavors are lightly herbal, while the finish is largely smooth and mild.
Briary spice and wild berry aromas set up a palate with a core of raspberry flavor mixed with a mild dose of greenness. The finish is clean and standard—fruity and not bashful.
Briary strawberry and tea aromas are light on the nose. The palate is modest and juicy in feel, with peppery, slightly bitter plum and cherry flavors.
Briary, dry, lightly oaked aromas of plum and berry lead to a bright, forward, juicy palate with fresh acidity and racy flavors of cherry and plum. This is short but clean on the finish, and overall it's the type of simple, drinkable, affordable Ribera del Duero that fans of the region don't come across often enough.
Briary, herbal berry aromas are dry, earthy, foresty and show a note of olive. This Cab is full of life on the palate, with energy and good overall balance. Spicy flavors of baked plum, olive, herbs and tobacco finish long, with amplified oak. Drink now through 2018.
Briary, herbal berry aromas precede a simple, inoffensive palate. Generic, slightly candied and herbal berry flavors end with notes of pepper and mild bitterness. This is 60% Bobal and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Briary, herbal berry aromas take on a wet-dog scent. This feels shear and shrill, with high acidity and not much body. Sour black-plum flavors are highly herbal and borderline weedy, while a tart, scouring finish closes this out.
Briary, minty berry aromas are highly herbal and straight from the traditional Chilean recipe. This is saturated and full-bodied, with scratchy tannins that do nothing to tame the mouthfeel. Heavily blackened and toasted berry flavors are spicy like pepper, while a chocolaty, dry finish is made firm by arid tannins. Drink through 2025.
Briary, oaky, stalky berry aromas lead to a full-bodied palate with tomatoey acidity. Savory plum and berry flavors include notes of oak grain and tomato that lead to a steady finish. Overall, this is a classic Rioja from an excellent vintage. Drink through 2022.
Briary, snappy, almost citric aromas set up a balanced palate with good body and acidic lift in this straightforward wine. Flavors of spiced, dry tomato, plum and earthiness finish with savory raspberry, spice and herbal hints.
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.
Briary, woody, scratchy aromas announce plenty of new oak, and there are also balsamic notes, leather and wild berry scents to ponder. The palate is big, grapy and lusty, while the flavors are baked, jammy and finish with a clear note of raisin as well as chocolate.
Bric Balin offers the same creamy succulence of Moccagatta's Cole Barbaresco, only here, you get added aromas of smoked bacon and cured meat. At the base is a solid foundation of lively fruit and chocolate-like nuances, and the wine ends with bold flavors and tight tannins. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Bric Turot is a rich and powerful Barbaresco that shows excellent integrity and intensity of its fruit flavors. Those tones of red cherry and cassis are backed by layers of spice, leather and dried tobacco leaf.
Bricco al Sole is proudly made with organically grown grapes and exhibits aromas of black fruit, sweet spice and black olive. It's streamlined and fresh on the finish, with a bright berry aftertaste.
Bricco Asili Bernardot opens with a pretty garnet color and luscious aromas of fruit, leather, road tar and spice. It's a sophisticated and masculine wine with rich vanilla and oak shadings in the background that add density and staying power. The tannins are hard as nails so either drink this Barbaresco now with succulent red beef, or better yet, wait five-plus years.
Bricco Barone is a smokey, meaty expression of Nebbiolo with bold aromas of black fruit, prune, dried tobacco leaf and finely milled white pepper. This pretty wine ends with a masculine blast of earthy, dusty tones.
Bricco Bastia offers an inky, dense expression of Dolcetto with loads of dark fruit, cherry and blueberry intensity. There are also mineral notes in there and the close is slightly vinous, chewy and raw.
Bricco dell'Uccellone is an historic wine that shaped the modern history of Barbera d'Asti and Piedmont in general. Aged 15 months in oak casks, the wine is bountiful and harmonious with aromas of cherry, blackberry and spice. There's a bright splash of crisp fruit on the close.
Bricco delle Viole has a thorny, slightly nervous personality that needs a few more years of cellar aging before softening. Aromas include dill, dried herbs, turmeric, forest berry and bramble. The mouthfeel is sharp and polished with bright berry nuances and crisp acidity. Drink this wine with cream- or butter-based dishes.
Bricco Medica Roero offers beautiful aromas of blue flowers, tangerine skin and cassis berry. It's a tad softer than other expressions although the finish is tannic and drying.
Brichet is a soft and plump Barbera with loads of red cherry, chocolate fudge and cinnamon. It's fun, rich and easy to drink. Pair it with meatloaf or lamb chops.
Brick and black-rock earthiness mixes with slightly sour black cherry in this smartly priced blend of 55% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 15% Petite Sirah. The palate shows tart red currant fruit and sagebrush.
Brick dust, tomato paste, oregano and basil aromas control the nose on this Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend. The palate is narrow in feel, while flavors of roasted berry, vanilla, mocha and burnt caramel finish creamy and warm, with good texture and modest complexity.
Brick House was one of the first to plant Gamay Noir in the Willamette Valley, and may well be the state's leading producer in terms of quantity. This is loaded with chunky cherry fruit, a penetrating style that simply brings a grin with every sip. Aromatics of root beer, sassafras and hard cherry candy add to the complexity.
Brick in color, this single-vineyard wine is vibrant in acidity and a taste of fresh strawberry seasoned in earth, cola spice and forest. Balanced despite a full-bodied imprint, it's an impressive offering sure to please fans of a bigger style of the variety.
Brick red in color, this is a clear, clean expression of tar and ripe red cherry and raspberry fruit that's medium bodied and layered, popping at the finish with a spectacularly intense imprint of oak.
Brick red in color, this toasty, oaky Zin is grippy and satisfying. Thick on the palate with sweet, ripe tannins and a dusty texture, it's nicely balanced with a long finish that's inviting with meaty foods.
Brick red in color, this vineyard-designated Pinot offers aromas of rose geranium before delving into soft, earthy notes laced in strawberry and oak. The wine is not overly ripe nor tannic, and finishes with a medium length.
Brick red in color, this wine also smells of brick and smoke. On the palate, it's moderately structured and robustly ripe, showing burly blueberry and mocha chocolate flavors with unfettered fervor.
Brickish in color, and seemingly thin. Aromas of baked fruit, compost, tobacco, vanilla and burnt coffee are challenging, while the palate is earthy and tastes leafy as well as sweet. On the positive side, it's neither heavy nor overdone. On the negative side, it's thin and on the fade.
Brickish in color, with mature aromas of cedar, pine, tobacco, olive and dried fruits. There's still some racy acidity that's keeping the rooty flavors of tobacco, dried berry, coffee and spice moving forward. Finishes dry and a little bit classic; drink now for an affordable taste of Navarra.
Bridgitte and her husband Eric took over her family property in 2009, in 2014 producing a spicy and fruity wine. It has fine tannins and sweet red-berry fruit. The acidity and the balance are just right. Drink this attractive wine from 2018. They donate one percent of their turnover to an environmental charity and are (they say) one of only two wineries in the world who are members of “1% for the planet.”
Bridlewood has crafted a very serious Syrah, from a region of Santa Barbara County that excels at this Rhône variety. The wine is fully dry and full-bodied, with rich, dense tannins, but what's notable is the depth of flavor. The blackberries, currants, licorice, cola, mocha and smoky oak flavors are very rich. Drink now and for a few years.
Brie rinds and grapefruit peels show their pithy aromas on this wine from a heritage clone cultivated by the California Rhône pioneer. It's lean, grippy and minerally on the palate, like licking gray rocks and cold steel, and comes across as enjoyable and memorable.
Brief aging in oak and sur lies aging has given this a much needed creamy richness. Without that, it would be just a crisply acidic, fresh wine, with citrus, apple, peach and honeysuckle flavors. With it, it's elevated. Excessively sweet on the finish.
Brief skin contact during fermentation gives this appropriately named, single-vineyard (The Benches) rosé it's pretty pale-salmon color. It's immediately appealing, with notes of melon and strawberry, and just a hair off-dry, with a rich, textured feel.
Bright-pink in hue, this has crisp acidity and enduring aromas of grapefruit, raspberry, wild fruit and chopped herb. There's even a touch of bitter almond on the bubbly close.
Bright acidity accompanies tight, wild berry fruits. As with many Malbecs, the fruit is balanced against clean earth and stem, with a touch of tomato leaf in the aromas.
Bright acidity gives mouthwatering liveliness to the tropical fruit, Meyer lemon, pear, vanilla, buttered toast and butterscotchy oak flavors. It's made to order for the popular style.
Bright acidity gives the tangerine and citron flavors of this Chardonnay a bite. It's very dry, clean and minerally, and finishes with a mouthwatering scour.
Bright acidity translates to the aromas in this bottling: laser-sharp lime zest, squeezed grapefruit, dewy grass and wet gravel. Those scents grow riper as the wine warms, while the palate seems sweeter—more lime candy than fresh lime. It finishes tart, with a wet metal freshness.
Bright and aggressive for Llopart, with lively orange and apricot aromas. Frothy to the point of being bubbly, with ripe, bouncy pink grapefruit and other citrus flavors. Stays racy and citrusy on the finish. All fruit; not complex.
Bright and airy on the nose, with aromas of lemon pith, ripe apple and delicate white peach, this wine is one of the first made in its entirety by Dierberg's new winemaker, Tyler Thomas. The palate offers flavors of fresh lime sprayed on cold apple slices and sprinkled with sea salt, proving tightly wound with the right amount of grip and energy.
Bright and alive in crisp pear and fresh citrus, this is a lovely, spicy Chardonnay, integrated and pleasing on the palate. The juicy fruit flavors delve into a creamy texture that lingers through to the finish.
Bright and attractively fruity, this has pear and green apple flavors, with a lemon zest tang. Drink over the next year. Screwcap.
Bright and balanced, this is a fine wine from an exceptional vineyard site that coaxes a lovely combination of elegance and complexity from the grapes. Opulent on the nose in caramel and quince, it's layered and lengthy, even viscous toward the finish, ending with depth and a touch of vanilla. Drink now through 2021.
Bright and beautiful, this caresses the palate with its smooth and silky texture. The wine's aromas include wild berry, violet, wet earth, cola and toasted nut. It finishes structured, crisp and refreshing.
Bright and bold to the eye, this has generous, powerful berry aromas that come with a note of spice. It feels stacked and only slightly tangy, with black fruit and some of Syrah's more textbook flavors of leather and animal. It holds form on the finish.
Bright and bouncy, this gluggable Pinot Noir sings with juicy red berry fruit, a touch of cinnamon and an earthy core. Texturally silky with a savory finish, this easy-going sipper deserves 20 minutes in the fridge to really turn up the refreshment dial.
Bright and brambly, this dense and textural wine brings strawberry and cherry fruit goodness front and center. It remains powerfully focused deep into a long finish, nuanced with cured meat and barrel toast.
Bright and breezy, this wine is made from 85% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and 5% other varieties. It offers straightforward dark cherry flavors mingled with a hint of mint and spice. Simple but well-made, it will pair well with pasta dishes and soups.
Bright and brooding, this lightly-textured, medium-bodied wine offers smoke, leather, blackberry and baked plum. There's an underlying richness akin to decadent crÃ¨me anglaise, with a finish of clove and coffee.
Bright and buoyant, this has notes of rosemary, cola, wild berry and dried ginger. It is structured but compact and crisp, with an elegant menthol finish.
Bright and buoyant, this Riserva Brunello offers loads of easy, fresh fruit with a point of ripe apple or white cherry. The wine is smooth and bright on the finish with fresh acidity that follows polished tannins.
Bright and bursting aromas of pomegranate and very ripe cranberry mesh with rose petals and hibiscus on the nose of this blend of 52% Grenache, 27% Syrah and 21% Mourvèdre. The palate shows a fresh vibrancy and interesting complexity, with Indian spice giving nuance to a red-fruit frame.
Bright and cheerful with a candied black cherry nose, this is a deliciously fruit-forward yet focused wine. On the palate, soft, fresh fruit and supple vanilla flavors meld beautifully with supple tannins and a rich, dark, roasted coffee finish.
Bright and cheery, this delicately sweet Marquette sparkling offers loads of fresh forward grapey flavor. It's a simple and straightforward wine but briskly composed.
Bright and citrus-driven, this no-fuss wine would pair with grilled shrimp or freshwater fish. The wine is zesty and fresh overall.
Bright and clean with drying mineral nuances at the back of citrus and peach, this pretty Gavi would make for a great aperitif choice. The wine is crisp and lively with a fresh fruit quality on the close.
Bright and clean with freshly pressed apples and pears on the nose, this is an easy-quaffing, medium-bodied Croatian Malvasia to pair with seafood and other light fare. Luscious on the palate with a rich, toasted hazelnut note, it's balanced by a lemony acidity and a brisk minerality throughout.
Bright and clean with scents of fresh apples and quince preserves, this dry, full bodied Chardonnay has pleasant apple and lemon flavors, but could use a boost of intensity in the midpalate. Finishes on a puckery, slightly bitter note.
Bright and clean, this drinks easily thanks to its fresh aromas of citrus and stone fruit. The compact, crisp mouthfeel finishes with a touch of grated lemon zest.
Bright and clear, this young wine is powered by racy cranberry and raspberry fruit. It's a wine that will appeal to those who love primary, juicy, tangy red fruit, but will carry a long way in the cellar for those who value the extra dimensions that well-aged Pinot can convey. Tuck a few bottles away and watch as they blossom into complex wines with dusty elegance. Drink now through 2030.
Bright and colorful, somewhere between a salmon pink and a light copper, this fresh rosé tastes of strawberries and wild raspberries. The finish is lightly spicy and showing just a hint of milk chocolate.
Bright and concentrated at the same time, with strong notes of black berries and cassis backed by softer notes of yellow flowers, almond skin, rosemary and pepper. The mouth is lightweight but full, with soft acids and a short but clean finish. Very approachable; drink now.
Bright and concentrated raspberry fruit is the hallmark of this Washington Zinfandel, with the acidity it needs to support almost 16% alcohol. High-toned and juicy, the fruit shines, though the finish turns chalky.
Bright and correct with clean berry flavors, this is a perfect red wine to pair with meat appetizers or pâtè. It delivers a thin, watery feel with loads of crisp berry freshness in the mouth.
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.
Bright and crisp with an edge of tannins and plenty of red-currant fruitiness, this is an attractive wine. It is perfumed with a mineral edge and lively acidity. Drink now.
Bright and crisp with clean, fresh flavors of apple and pear. It's got some pretty honeysuckle in both the nose and the mouth, and the overall texture, balance and length puts it in with some of Washington's best.
Bright and crisp with just a touch of vanilla along with the more citrus character. The wine has red berry fruits, a light structure, fragrant, ready to drink.
Bright and crisp, but with nice depth and length, too, this medium-bodied wine is delicious to drink and holds interest with a light touch of oak. Tangy grapefruit and lime flavors have a hint of brioche and the texture is very lively.
Bright and crisp, this Aglianico-based rosato shows the soft, feminine side of this hearty red grape. Notes of wild berry and raspberry are followed by touches of almond skin and pink grapefruit.
Bright and crisp, this bright sparkler has aromas of lime and apple that follow through to the lively palate. Vibrant acidity gives it a refreshing finish.
Bright and crisp, this is a fruity wine that's full of citrus and red currant flavors. It has a fine tangy texture that brings out the freshness. Ready to drink as a fine apéritif.
Bright and crisply defined, this is a lush and forward wine with flavors of buttered apples, pear tart and vanilla spice. It rolls into a seamless finish, continuing along the bakery path with brioche and apple pie.
Bright and dark all at once with lovely notes of black cherry, bramble and juicy red plum guts all accented with a touch of sweet spice. Silky and smoothly textured with an overall vibrancy and easygoing character.
Bright and delicious, this sleek, easy-drinking red delivers crunchy strawberry, sour cherry and savory herb. Silky tannins and fresh acidity balance out the juicy palate. Drink through 2016.
Bright and delicious, this starts with aromas of blue flower, red berries, mint and thyme together with a whiff of leather. The juicy palate offers wild cherry and strawberry accented with cinnamon-spice alongside fresh acidity and firm but fine tannins. Drink now through 2016 to capture the fresh, crunchy berry character.
Bright and dense, totally packed with dark fruits and aromas, this young and brambly blend brings tart, wild berry, cassis and smoky espresso into play full force. There's black licorice also, coffee grounds, and powerful tannins, along with the acids to age.
Bright and drinkable with easygoing green fig, underripe melon, herbs and sweet lemon drop flavors. Approachable and balanced with medium acidity and a crisp finish. Drink now.
Bright and earthy, dense and dark, this New World Tempranillo has an Old World soul, with dark cherry and strawberry going on as well as a touch of cocoa and tobacco. Its acidity adds a spark on the finish; this Ribera del Douro native grape seems plenty happy in the middle of California, at least in Bokisch's hands.
Bright and easy-to-drink, this Sangiovese delivers aromas and flavors of candied cherry, raspberry, Mediterranean herb and white pepper. Supple tannins and fresh acidity support juicy flavors.
Bright and easy drinking, this has delicate aromas of yellow wild flower and a whiff of pear. It's fresh and simple, offering yellow apple and a hint of citrus zest alongside crisp acidity.
Bright and easy drinking, this opens with aromas of red berry, tobacco, menthol and spice. The vibrant palate offers wild cherry, crushed raspberry, clove and star anise alongside racy acidity and soft, supple tannins. Drink soon.
Bright and easy, this has direct aromas and flavors of red cherry and raspberry. It's light in weight, with low tannins and a short but clean finish. Drink now.
Bright and easygoing, this features aromas of red berry, wildflower and a touch of alpine herb. The silky, lightly tannic palate doles out crushed raspberry, a hint of baking spice and an herbaceous note.
Bright and easygoing, this opens with pretty scents of blue flower, woodland berry and a hint of earth. The simple, rather slender palate offers fresh strawberry and a white pepper note alongside zesty acidity and limber tannins.
Bright and elegant, this features aromas of rose petal, woodland berry and a hint of cake spice. The palate delivers sour cherry, crushed raspberry, mineral and a touch of cinnamon alongside fresh acidity and smooth tannins.
Bright and elegant, this opens with aromas of blue flower, woodland berry, baking spice and a whiff of toasted oak. The sleek, savory palate doles out sour cherry, crushed strawberry, cinnamon and a hint of thyme alongside polished tannins.
Bright and forward in red and black cherry, plum and new oak aromas, this lush Bordeaux blend comes from two small vineyards in St. Helena. It has a smooth, silky texture, very seductive and charming. Luscious now, but has the structural integrity to age through 2012.
Bright and fragrant, this has aromas of Golden Delicious, pear, white flower and honeysuckle. It has a touch of sun-ripened sweetness, followed by a creamy texture.
Bright and fragrant, this has intense aromas of lemon, orange peel and chopped aromatic herb. The aromas follow over to the softly foaming palate along with apricot and a candied note.
Bright and fragrant, this has pretty aromas of wild berry, kitchen spice, sage and a hint of game. The straightforward palate offers red cherry and clove while supple tannins and fresh acidity give it an easy-drinking vibe.
Bright and fragrant, this luminous wine opens with aromas of rose, violet and crushed raspberry. The juicy palate delivers mouthfuls of sour cherry and cinnamon alongside fresh acidity and supple tannins that give a silky texture.
Bright and fragrant, this offers aromas of Asian spice and fresh berry. The fresh, savory palate delivers juicy blackberry, wild blueberry, licorice and hint of peppercorn alongside robust tannins. There's not much complexity but it's delicious. Drink soon to capture the fresh, succulent fruit.
Bright and fragrant, this offers scents of acacia, herbs and stone fruit accented by a hint of nuts. The bright palate offers white peach, green apple and citrus framed in vibrant acidity together with a frothy mousse.
Bright and fragrant, this opens with aromas of underbrush, rose, dark berry and a whiff of exotic spice. The savory, easy-drinking palate doles out black cherry, blackberry, white pepper and chopped herb alongside bright acidity.
Bright and fragrant, this opens with aromas of violet, strawberry and raspberry that carry over to the palate. Silky tannins provide elegant support. It's a lovely wine to enjoy soon.
Bright and fragrant, this opens with scents of wild berry, rose and violet. The vibrant palate delivers tart cherry, blood orange, anise and chopped herb alongside supple tannins and zesty acidity. There's no complexity but it's easy drinking and thoroughly enjoyable.
Bright and fresh aromas of black currant and Concord grape meet with violet and a sense of chalkiness on the nose of this blend of 57% Cabernet Franc, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot. The sip is bone-dry, relying on a graphite backbone and relatively light body to carry forth purple fruit flavors.
Bright and fresh aromas of Key lime, cantaloupe, light honey and crushed chalk show on the nose of this rarely planted variety, which was bottled by star sommelier Diego Barbieri. It's very dry and tight on the sip, with apple and Asian-pear flavors upheld by a riverstone minerality.
Bright and fresh in character, definitely herbaceous, with asparagus to go with grapefruit and a very mineral, tangy edge.
Bright and fresh on the nose at first, this offers citrus spray and then delves into drying apples and pear. There is solid grip on the palate, offering flavors of sour orange, lime Granny Smith apple and a bit of grassiness.
Bright and fresh on the nose with crystalline aromas of lime juice, apple skins and tropical-leaning plumeria, this is a very quaffable wine. The palate shows apple and pear flesh, cut with just enough lime zest.
Bright and fresh wine, but with delicious depth of apricot and green plum flavors. It's full with outstanding richness, while the fruit flavors have a great lift. Part of Schloss Gobelsburg's Tradition series, in which wines are aged longer before release.
Bright and fresh, a great mouthful of lemongrass spices, lime and tight, young flavors of grapefruit. The acidity suffuses the wine, lifting it, giving the fruit a vivid character. There is a clean, mineral aftertaste.
Bright and fresh, this easygoing wine offers aromas of wild berry and fragrant blue flower. The simple, easy-drinking palate delivers red cherry and a hint of white pepper alongside zesty acidity and limber tannins. Enjoy soon.
Bright and fresh, this is a delicate rosé, showing both fruitiness and some structure. Strawberry dusted with pepper lends a spicy berry character throughout. It's not for aging, so drink now.
Bright and fresh, this is a totally fruity wine with a more serious edge at the end. Red cherries push through the crisp acidity that offers a zingy texture. The touch of minerality in the 40-year-old vines from the Chapoly vineyard granite soil gives an austere, structured aftertaste.
Bright and fresh, this offers upfront lemongrass, fynbos and fresh herb notes that are supported by a core of gooseberry, white peach and apple. The lightweight body is crisp and refreshing, with a finish that evolves from tart citrus flavors to notes of hay and subtle stony nuance. It's enjoyable now, but should show best from 2018–2021.
Bright and fresh, with streamlined and compact fruit, Poggio Teo has the natural acidity to stand up to cheese- or cream-based dishes. It has light dustings of toasted nut and spice that give the palate added dimension.
Bright and friendly, this supple young red offers fresh red-berry flavors that are lightly accented by hints of tobacco and spice. Mouthwatering acidity gives it a vibrant character and a clean, dry finish. It's made to be drunk young so enjoy now.
Bright and fruity on the nose, this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot shows notes of ripe red cherry and raspberry. Medium-bodied in weight, there is just enough tannic structure to balance the red fruit intensity and sweet oak undertones. Drink now.
Bright and fruity with touches of wood, this is a complex wine with good acidity, a crisp texture and a strong mineral strain. It is rich and will age well. Drink from 2017.
Bright and fruity, it's full of fresh acidity and has a strongly mineral texture. Green fruits, apples and pears partner with a strong citrus element. Wait until 2015.
Bright and fruity, it has good acidity and a crisp exterior. Inside, lemon and pear fruit flavors are touched with pineapple. It will be ready soon, so drink 2014.
Bright and fruity, this accessible wine is ready to drink. Fresh and packed with red berries, it is juicy and fresh. The aftertaste, with its acidity, has a touch of spice. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Counoise and Syrah shows strawberry, pomegranate, hibiscus, rose, sumac and fennel scents on the nose. A fennel element plays on the palate as well, alongside cranberry, raspberry and turned earth flavors.
Bright and fruity, this Chardonnay has citrus and peach flavors, with notes of almond, vanilla and spice that reflect the wood aging and make this a wine that's crisp and rich. It has a strong texture, and it needs 4–5 years for its complexities to fully evolve.
Bright and fruity, this crisp and fresh wine is full of lively red currants and berries cut with acidity and a tangy, orange peel texture. This is a great summer rosé.
Bright and fruity, this crisp wine also has a rich undercurrent. Toast and vanilla flavors give a round character to this tangy, fresh and ripe wine. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this dayglo pink wine is dominated by acidity, though the strawberry flavors offer a riper core. It's for drinking this summer.
Bright and fruity, this delicious wine is crisp, clean and refreshing. With yellow fruits followed by zesty acidity, it's both open and textured. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this has a good balance of lemon and ripe pear flavors. It is a light wine, crisp but with a richer seam that gives it concentration. A great apéritif wine, it's ready to drink.
Bright and fruity, this has a ripe applesauce flavor that's cut with citrusy acidity. It's a great apéritif, with a soft texture and refreshing finish.
Bright and fruity, this has refreshing acidity. It has a lively apple flavor that gives a delicate fragrance and juiciness. With its taut, mineral texture, this is classic, unoaked Chablis.
Bright and fruity, this is a crisp, herbal wine. From the Bougrier family estate it is perfumed, creamy and offers refreshing acidity, citrus and hints of apricots. The wine is ready to drink.
Bright and fruity, this is a light, mineral and citrus-flavored wine. Plenty of acidity gives freshness while also hinting at riper yellow fruits and apples. Drink from 2017.
Bright and fruity, this is a ready-to-drink wine. Fruitiness and lively acidity are balanced by the cherry juice flavors and a light structure to finish.
Bright and fruity, this is a ripe, red-fruit-flavored wine. The youthful tannins will soften quickly to give a rounded wine, rich but with crisp acidity at the end. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this is a wine to be enjoyed now. It's crisp acidity, but concentrated with creamed-apple flavors and broadened by a touch of wood.
Bright and fruity, this is an apple and crisp green-fruit-flavored wine. There is a hint of the maturity to come, giving a light toastiness while the fruit remains crisp and refreshing. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this is classic white Bordeaux with its citrus and lively acidity as well as a crisp texture. It has weight and shows some potential to fill out, so drink from 2017. Because of spring frost and summer rain, Marie-José (Perrin) Leriche reduced the (90%) Sauvignon Blanc and (10%) Sémillion harvest by a third.
Bright and fruity, this Sangiovese offers aromas of wild berry, clove and tilled soil. The easy-drinking palate doles out dark cherry, raspberry, white pepper and a hint of crushed mint alongside polished tannins. Enjoy through 2016.
Bright and fruity, this wine has a warm, ripe streak that gives it richness. It also has all the freshness and crispness of the vintage while showing a more creamy character that's typical of Saint-Aubin. It is developing quickly and could well be ready to drink in 2016, certainly by 2017.
Bright and fruity, this wine has all the richness of whites in this vintage. It has yellow fruits, citrus and a warm, rounded texture. There is just a touch of herbal acidity at the end to keep it fresh.
Bright and fruity, this wine has fine acidity, which balances the firm tannins. The whole wine feels juicy, packed with forward fruit and having a lively character. Drink now.
Bright and fruity, this wine is attractive in black currant flavors. With its juicy balance of acidity and open fruit, it is developing quickly and will be ready from 2019.
Bright and fruity, this wine is citrusy while also suggesting ripe white-fruit flavors. It has a fine tang of lime zest that gives an underlying cool, green character to this attractive wine.
Bright and fruity, this wine is light, crisp and shot through with acidity. Lively and tangy, it's ready to drink now.
Bright and fruity, with a tannic edge, this is a blend of Touriga Nacional and Syrah. This is food friendly, with a rich red-fruit flavor that's cut with a caramel note and strawberry acidity.
Bright and fruity, with pretty cherry and raspberry notes. There's also a certain leafy complexity, with hints of smoke and coffee on the finish. Good wine. Good price.
Bright and full bodied, this opens with scents that recall exotic incense, wild berry, tilled earth and dark spice. The palate offers dried black cherry, cranberry, star anise and a menthol note alongside a backbone of refined tannins. Drink after 2018.
Bright and generously oaked, this wine is ripe and softly layered, an explosion of strawberry and raspberry that takes on a jammy consistency of power and big flavor.
Bright and herbaceous the wine is on the cusp between cool, fresh flavors and more tropical richness. It has a perfumed character, bright and crisp citrus and warmer apricot fruits. Drink now.
Bright and high in acidity, this has a lively cherry flavor, plus a layering of earthy mushroom. It's silky from start to finish.
Bright and impressive, this ambitious Barbera shows black and red raspberry upfront while cherry and chocolate dominate the palate. The slight grip at the end of the finish suggests this wine would pair well with grilled veal.
Bright and intense berry aromas lead into a tart palate that runs heavy with pie cherry and leather. It's probably a tad too tight, tart and hard to merit higher, but with food it should do the trick. Some dark black coffee notes on the finish add to the wine's drying character.
Bright and jammy red cherry, strawberry and raspberry aromas flood the nose of this Syrah-dominated blend, and carry onto the palate. Medium tannins add a bit of structure, while the finish is clean, with a mouthwatering sensation.
Bright and juicy, this fruity wine has plenty of cherry acidity and bright acidity. It's attractive to drink now with its broad texture and crisp aftertaste.
Bright and juicy, this is a fresh, red-fruited wine, ripe and fragrant. The tannic element is almost an afterthought.
Bright and juicy, this opens with heady aromas of fragrant white flower, citrus and ripe orchard fruit. Mirroring the nose, the fresh palate doles out mature apple, Bartlett pear and nectarine zest alongside a note of Mediterranean scrub.
Bright and juicy, this straightforward, savory red delivers aromas and flavors of succulent blackberry, wild cherry, crushed raspberry and hints of cinnamon. Round, soft tannins give it an easy-drinking quality ideal for everyday occasions. Drink soon to capture the fresh fruit.
Bright and juicy, this wine offers upfront fruit aromas and flavors of blueberry, black cherry and plum. Hints of fudgy brownie and berry preserve add depth and decadence to the palate, and stay well into the medium-length finish. Drink now.
Bright and lemony, this has tight acidity and layers of toasty caramel and vanilla. This will pair with a wide range of dinner options and would make for a worthy go-to midweek wine.
Bright and lifted on the nose, this bears aromas of lemon peel, green apple and white peach, with accents of honeyed nut and wilted rose. The flavors mirror the aromas, showing very good concentration and lively acidity. The medium-long finish is zesty, warm and fresh.
Bright and light at first almost like a California Pinot Noir, with red fruit and cola paying a visit, the blend of mostly Sangiovese (79%), 20% Barbera and 5% Petit Verdot drinks big and full with a rustic finish.
Bright and light on its feet, this is a pleasant and sunny wine that's loaded with crisp citrus and green apple aromas and flavors. There's a subtle, surprising smoothness to the palate, though zippy acidity picks up on the midpalate and through the clean finish. Drink now.
Bright and light, this offers yellow fruits that are cut with citrus to give a clean character as well as richness. Drink now for its crisp aftertaste and warm texture.
Bright and linear, this offers delicate aromas suggesting ripe orchard fruit and bread crust. Made with no added dosage, the vibrant rather lean palate offers mature yellow apple, toasted walnut and a hint of citrus alongside crisp acidity and a firm, continuous perlage.
Bright and lively, with cherry and blueberry nuances, this would pair well with pizzas or simple cheeseburgers. It delivers loads of fresh berry intensity and soft, smooth tannins.
Bright and loaded with an earthy finesse, this offers alluring scents of wild berry, pressed violet, new leather, aromatic herb and a balsamic note. The ultrarefined palate doles out juicy red cherry, cranberry and star anise set against fresh acidity and firm, polished tannins. Drink 2019–2030.
Bright and luminous, this Prosecco Cartizze offers generous tones of stone fruit and fragrant white flowers. It is harmonious and elegant with creamy froth and crisp, sweet exotic fruit on the close.
Bright and packed with succulent apple and pear fruit, this retains ample juicy acidity for a perfectly balanced, fresh style. With its underlying wet stone minerality, it offers exceptional value.
Bright and peppery with spice, this bottling from Ed Kurtzman delivers all that's lovable about Pinot Noir in a fresh, light style. Its raspberry fruit is accented and lifted by bay leaf, thyme and white pepper notes, with a saline hint of kalamata olive. That boundless energy continues on the palate, where crisp pomegranate blends with marjoram.
Bright and perfumed while also rich, this is a full-bodied wine. It has spice and pepper that come from its alcohol although everything is kept fresh by the red-currant fruitiness. Drink now.
Bright and perky with acidity, along with a delicate, silky mouthfeel, this is a pretty Pinot for drinking now with steak or char-broiled salmon. It has delicious flavors of cherries and pomegranates, along with earthier notes of ripe heirloom tomatoes and sautéed wild mushrooms splashed with Balsamic.
Bright and plump fruits of black plum and boysenberry are drizzled with tar and dusted with savory peppercorns on the nose of this bottling, which also has a gamy hint of roast lamb. The palate is a tad thin but full of flavor, with boysenberry, lavender and thyme flavors.
Bright and polished, this low-alcohol wine is rounded off—to good effect—with some noticeable residual sugar. It's a luscious wine, loaded with grapefruit, lime and Meyer lemon flavors. They carry through a mouthfilling and palate-refreshing middle into a lingering finish.
Bright and polished, with high-toned, lifted raspberry fruit, this pure varietal wine spent 14 months in a mix of French and American oak, 40% new. Raspberries, red cherries, red licorice, sandalwood and vanilla oak flavors compound and remain tightly bound and expressive through a lingering finish.
Bright and pure, with high natural acidity framing ripe flavors of peaches, pineapples, limes, kiwi fruits and smoky, oaky vanilla. Classic Edna Valley Chardonnay.
Bright and ready-to-burst flavors of raspberry and just-ripe cranberry show on the nose of this bottling that also features tartness and graphite minerality alongside vanilla and baking spice. More of an underripe character shows on the forest-floor palate, where thyme and marjoram mix with tangy red fruit, pine needle and juniper.
Bright and really fresh, this is as crisp as Sauvignon Blanc can get. It has a tight, mineral texture and a strong herbal flavor. Lime and lemon dominate the fruit spectrum of this light wine. Ready to drink now.
Bright and refined, this conveys aromas of dark berry, tobacco, smoke and underbrush. The vibrant palate delivers juicy wild cherry, orange zest, cinnamon and a note of licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2015–2012.
Bright and refreshing acidity is the star of this lovely, windswept wine, powerful yet integrated in tannin and oak. The racy, feral notes of anise, apple blossom and nutmeg are complemented by a teasingly voluptuous spirit that never overwhelms.
Bright and refreshing, this easygoing white offers delicate aromas and flavors of white spring flower, Granny Smith apple and citrus. Racy acidity gives it a crisp finish.
Bright and refreshing, this lively rosato opens with aromas of red woodland berry and a pleasant whiff of geranium. The vibrant palate doles out wild raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate while tangy acidity leaves a crisp finish.
Bright and refreshing, this offers aromas of orchard fruit and citrus. The lively palate delivers white peach, mature pear and nectarine alongside crisp acidity while a mineral note signals the close.
Bright and refreshing, this opens with scents of honeysuckle, jasmine, pear and yellow stone fruit. The round but lively palate offers peach, green apple and a hint of white almond. Fresh acidity lifts the rich flavors.
Bright and refreshing, this opens with white spring flower and yellow stone fruit aromas. The linear palate evokes yellow peach, mature apple and juicy nectarine, brightened with tangy acidity. It finishes clean and crisp.
Bright and refreshing, this sparkler opens with aromas of small red berry and a whiff of cake spice. Made entirely with Pinot Nero, the vibrant palate offers strawberry, raspberry and a cinnamon note alongside crisp acidity.
Bright and ripe, this deliciously fruity wine is lightly structured and has some weight. With its crisp acidity and dry core of tannins, it's a wine to pair with many foods.
Bright and savory wine, it has a delicate floral fragrance of hawthorne and honeysuckle with a whiff of pear. The palate offers green apple, a hint of white peach and light mineral sensations.
Bright and savory, this charming blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Teroldego doles out juicy wild cherry, black raspberry, cinnamon, white pepper and crushed Mediterranean herb. It's easy drinking and delicious, with supple tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2016.
Bright and savory, this floral scented Pecorino offers juicy tropical fruit and lemon drop sensations accented by notes of mint and thyme. The ripe fruit is balanced by brisk acidity that leaves the palate feeling cleansed and refreshed.
Bright and savory, this foaming dessert wine comes with the enticing aromas and flavors of ripe apricot, yellow peach, sage and tangerine. Crisp acidity brightens the rich creamy flavors.
Bright and savory, this offers aromas of wild berry, lilac, baking spice and a whiff of menthol. On the palate, notes of grilled herb, coffee and aniseed accent the wild cherry core while chewy tannins offer support.
Bright and savory, this offers sensations of bread crust, apple, juicy citrus and walnut alongside an earthy minerality. Vibrant acidity and persistent bubbles end on a clean, refreshing note.
Bright and savory, this opens with an alluring fragrance of white flower, exotic fruit, ripe peach, Mediterranean scrub and a whiff of sea breeze. The creamy palate doles out ripe apricot, green apple, mineral and a slightly salty finish alongside refreshing acidity.
Bright and savory, this opens with aromas of blue flowers, mint, dark berry and an earthy whiff of underbrush. The firm palate doles out black cherry, crushed raspberry, peppermint and white pepper alongside firm, sleek tannins. Drink through 2020.
Bright and savory, this opens with enticing aromas of wild berry, fragrant blue flower, rose and a whiff of exotic spice. The silky, easy-drinking palate offers succulent Marasca cherry, black raspberry, white pepper and a hint of clove alongside lithe tannins and fresh acidity.
Bright and savory, this opens with pretty aromas of white spring flower and orchard fruit. The vibrant palate offers crisp green apple and white peach set in a framework of zesty acidity. Sip as a refreshing apéritif or pair it with light first courses.
Bright and savory, this wine opens with heady scents of white spring flower and yellow stone fruit. The light and refreshing palate offers white peach and lemon zest alongside crisp acidity.
Bright and showy aromas of olallieberry, packed lilacs and smoked meats make for a very inviting, hearty nose on this bottling. The oak smoke powers the palate, adding savoriness to the plum, cherry and baked-strawberry fruit. A nicely sour herb tension, full of oregano and sage, rounds out the sip.
Bright and silky, this blend of Sangiovese, Sagrantino, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot offers aromas of blue flower, spicy red berry and a hint of leather. The savory palate offers layers of crushed wild cherry, red raspberry, white pepper and clove alongside supple tannins. Succulent and easy drinking, it should be enjoyed through 2016 to capture fresh fruit.
Bright and silky, this offers aromas of damp earth, leafy underbrush, chopped mint and wild berry. On the fresh palate, zesty acidity accompanies tart cherry, red raspberry, white pepper, clove, licorice and orange peel.
Bright and silky, this opens with aromas of citrus and walnut. The luminous palate delivers ripe yellow apple, nectarine, a hint of brioche and a mineral note offset by a frothy mousse.
Bright and simple, this has delicate aromas of white stone fruit. The easygoing palate offers white peach and fresh apricot alongside fresh acidity.
Bright and spicy, this delightful Syrah has the cherry and boysenberry flavors, and the spice and lift of Washington fruit, with a finish that leads gracefully into pepper and coffee grounds. It's lively and palate-cleansing, with a finish that mixes citrusy lemon with dry, herbal tannins.
Bright and spicy, this has flavors of melon and pear. Balanced throughout, it finishes with a lightly toasty accent. Superb winemaking shines here.
Bright and spicy, this is Pinot Gris with a bit of the grassy bite of a Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Racy and loaded with grapefruit and pineapple flavors, this lingers lazily through a refreshing, acid-driven finish that invites further sipping.
Bright and spicy, this wine makes an immediate impact. The blueberry fruit has a sassy edge, and it penetrates through the middle into a finish with notes of black licorice, baking spices and coffee grounds. Firm, full and tight, the wine should age nicely now through 2025.
Bright and spicy, with a clean start and a pineapple heart. This runs from citrus right on through tropical fruit flavors, with a steely core that suggests it was done in stainless, with no malolactic. Solid and refreshing.
Bright and straightforward, it opens with aromas of tropical fruit and cut grass. The palate delivers flavors of white grapefruit and lime alongside zesty acidity. Pair with asparagus risotto.
Bright and straightforward, this has aromas of red berry, espresso, anise and a whiff of Alpine herb. The taut palate shows sour cherry and white pepper set against a backbone of firm acidity and tightly wound tannins.
Bright and straightforward, this opens with aromas of wild berry, blue flower and a whiff of eucalyptus. The easy drinking palate offers red cherry, star anise and a hint of chopped herb alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2017.
Bright and streamlined, this has aromas of wild berry, cassis, ginger and cherry cola. It shows fine structure and fresh crispness.
Bright and structured, this savory wine opens with intense aromas of crushed tomato vine, gooseberry and hay. The vibrant palate delivers layers of juicy white peach, honeydew melon, lemon and a hint of ginger alongside crisp acidity. There's so much to enjoy here!
Bright and supple, this wine is vibrantly awash in red cherry, raspberry and whisps of vanilla, finishing lean and with plenty of versatility.
Bright and tangy, this is a crisp, tight and mineral wine. It is fruity with pear and lime fruits that are caught up in the tangy texture and tense acidity. This is a wine that could age a while more, so drink from 2017.
Bright and tangy, this light-bodied wine smells fresh and herbal, almost like celery, and tastes very vibrant. It will be especially tasty in hot weather.
Bright and tangy, this wine delivers a full bouquet of citrus and white flower aromas. Touches of white pepper and crushed mineral appear on the finish, followed by bright acidity.
Bright and tart, almost sour. This is the style of rosé you want on a hot summer day. Chill it well down and drink it like a stainless-fermented white wine. The alcohol is barely over 12%––it won't hurt!
Bright and tasting of ripe pear, this is a textural, tart, tangy wine nicely set up for pastas, light seafood and poultry. Despite the nominal residual sugar, it comes across as almost entirely dry, with just a hint of fruit sweetness.
Bright and tonic, this easy Riesling from northern Italy opens with white flower, peach cream and passion fruit aromas. The wine is clean, dry and fresh on the close.
Bright and tonic, with vibrant fruit tones of cassis and dried raspberry followed by exotic spice and smoked bacon, this is an elegant and complex Barolo. After a while in the glass, you'll notice those fine mineral tones that characterize the Cannubi cru and that give this wine both backbone and personality.
Bright and tropical, with passion fruit and pink grapefruit aromas and flavors. They come together in a plump, medium-bodied wine that finishes soft and easy—a true crowd-pleaser.
Bright and very crisp, this bone-dry wine is full of acidity as well as red currant fruits. It has fine fruitiness, very tight, with a hint of tannin making it a great food rosé.
Bright and vivacious black and red berries meet with dill, mint and white sage on the nose of this bottling from a historic vineyard, with a touch of sweet pine wood as well. Dried purple flowers are prominent on the sip, where touches of asphalt, charcoal and beef in a blackberry sauce are boosted by peppery spice.
Bright and vivid, this crisp wine is made without oak. It is all fruitiness, crisp apples and grapefruit, with a tangy orange zest texture. It's ready to drink.
Bright and woodsy, this Syrah-dominant red is intriguing for its tapestry of earth and mushroom flavors interwoven with mixed berry fruit. There's enough acidity in the medium, yeast-scented finish to stand up to hearty red meats. Drink up.
Bright and wound up tight, this single-vineyard entry offers nicely-focused raspberry and cherry fruit. Brief barrel aging has added a touch of chocolate around the tannins.
Bright and zesty notes of boysenberry, cola, uncracked peppercorns and lilac show on the nose of this bottling by winemaker Sashi Moorman and grower Ruben Solorzano. Purple flowers, from lavender and violets to dark red rose petals, flavors the palate alongside tangy boysenberry fruit and black plum skins, hanging on a solid structure that will last for years. Drink 2017–2028.
Bright and zesty on the nose, this wine boasts an aromatic emphasis of passion fruit and citrus. The palate shows tension, with ringing acidity, while lime, green mango, grapefruit and passion fruit flavors finish fresh and racy.
Bright apple and lemon aromas are touched with hints of savory nuts on this brisk Riesling. It's dry in style, with a mouth-quenching freshness.
Bright apple and lemon aromas, along with a hint of sweet creamed corn, introduce this generously oaked Chardonnay. It's dry in style but bold on the palate with a rich, luxurious mouthfeel. Finishes moderately long with a lingering slick of butter.
Bright apple, pear and orange notes lead the nose of this well-balanced Chardonnay, with secondary accents of toast, sweet spice and nut. The vibrant mouthfeel is full but not flabby, with an attractive peach-pit flavor that carries through the long finish. Delicious now, but also should age well through 2017.
Bright aromas and vibrant fruit flavors combine for a very energized, beautifully balanced wine that will shine at the dinner table. It has rhubarb and sour-cherry aromas, red-cherry and  cinnamon flavors, a lively texture and lingering finish.
Bright aromas of apricot, pear, botrytis and jasmine are followed by medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors, backed by vibrant acidity.
Bright aromas of apricot, pear, lavender and jasmine capture the senses while the richly sweet stone fruit flavors also bring pleasure. The concentration and acid don't entirely match up but there's still much to enjoy.
Bright aromas of blackberry, cassis, pencil lead and black cherry are followed by full-bodied black-fruit flavors backed by a firm lick of chewy tannins. The finish lingers and the mouthfeel heightens the interest. Give the tannins some time to settle in. Best after 2020.
Bright aromas of citrus and tropical fruit give this easygoing white an easy appeal. Balanced and fresh, it's an elegant wine that will pair well with grilled fish and salads.
Bright aromas of crushed strawberry, rose petal and alpine herb waft out of the glass. On the refined, savory palate, green tea, graphite and a mineral note add depth to the red-berry core. Balanced with fresh acidity and supple tannins, this wine is all about sheer elegance and enjoyment.
Bright aromas of flowers and orange rind lead to perfumed, lightly spritzy sweet fruit flavors. Enjoy it as an apéritif.
Bright aromas of fresh flowers and orange rind lead to sweet fruit flavors. Enjoy it for dessert.
Bright aromas of freshly roasted coffee beans, brown stems, dried herbs, purple flowers, mineral and black pepper are followed by ethereally light fruit and savory flavors that focus on elegance. This wine provides plenty of interest but the finish seems a bit clipped. It might lengthen out with aging.
Bright aromas of freshly rubbed lime leaf, ripe peach and herbs lead to off-dry tangerine and stone-fruit flavors, perked up by tart acidity.
Bright aromas of freshly sliced pear, apple and spice are followed by lightly creamy fruit flavors that paint around the edges. It's a well-made wine but the middle seems missing.
Bright aromas of Granny Smith apple, green fruit, melon and honey emerge from the nose of this fragrant expression of Pinot Grigio. It is creamy and textured in the mouth with a touch of smooth almond paste on the close.
Bright aromas of honeysuckle, honey and ripe peach lead to medium-sweet fruit flavors. The concentration isn't all there but there's still much to enjoy.
Bright aromas of jasmine, lime leaf and peach are followed by off-dry fruit flavors, with jasmine and stone fruit lingering on the finish. The concentration wavers in the middle but regains its balance.
Bright aromas of lemon zest and cut grass give this wine a crisp feel. This should pair well with basil and tomato buschetta or summer pasta dishes with tangy pesto sauce.
Bright aromas of lime peels, green pear skins, ruby red grapefruit and lemongrass are leveled by slightly rounder nectarine flesh notes. The ripe grapefruit flavors come with touches of honeydew melon, all dazzled by a sharp acidity and vibrancy that makes the mouth water.
Bright aromas of lime, lemon zest and a hint of white flower lead the nose while the straightforward palate offers exotic fruit, citrus and a hint of pineapple. Notes of dried herb and bitter almond add interest.
Bright aromas of macerated cranberries and maraschino cherries along with vanilla and wood spice accents are followed by tart and appealing fruit flavors. The oak gets a bit too prominent.
Bright aromas of melon, pear and herb lead to tart dry fruit flavors. The concentration comes off as quite light.
Bright aromas of orange and mixed citrus fruits start this wine. The flavors are round and lively, with citric acidity pushing tangerine, grapefruit and mango tones. Citrus fruits give way to orange peel on the finish of this voluminous aromatic white. Drink now.
Bright aromas of orange blossom, night jasmine and gardenia are juxtaposed by a more mineral-driven backbone of wet cement. It's fairly light on its feet, with touches of sweetness, but more sprightly in tone, with fresh acidity and grippy texture taking it far beyond your grandma's Orange Muscat.
Bright aromas of peach, lime leaf, jasmine and flowers lead to off-dry mandarin orange and floral flavors. It provides a lot of appeal, though the concentration at times doesn't seem all there.
Bright aromas of peach, pear and nectarine are followed by lightly sweet fruit flavors. It brings some appeal but the apparent residual sugar gets in the way.
Bright aromas of pear, peach, baking spice and malolactic notes lead to a sleek yet creamy palate. It loses its rhythm a touch in the middle but comes back together.
Bright aromas of plum, herb and abundant wood spices are followed by plump, fresh dark fruit and barrel flavors backed by a light grip of gritty tannins.
Bright aromas of raspberries, flowers, potpourri and herbs are followed by a full-bodied palate. It finishes a bit linear.
Bright aromas of raspberry and dried rose petals highlight this wine from the southwestern corner of the county, along with black tea, sage and shiitake mushrooms. The flavors are supple and elegant, with light strawberry, pencil shavings and sagebrush making for a fun, energetic wine that really lets the vineyard shine.
Bright aromas of raspberry jam, flowers and spice are followed by rich, full-bodied red and black-fruit flavors that show depth and focus.
Bright aromas of raspberry, herb, cigar box and dried cranberry are followed by full-bodied cranberry and raspberry flavors. It delivers enjoyment but seems a bit dried out.
Bright aromas of red berry, rose, orange peel and eucalyptus lead the nose and carry over to the straightforward, savory palate along with a hint of allspice. The juicy fruit is balanced by supple tannins. Drink soon.
Bright aromas of ripe golden apple, Bartlett pear and honeydew melon carry over to the linear palate. Vibrant acidity gives this clean, refreshing finish.
Bright aromas of ripe peach, apricot, flower and jasmine lead to off-dry stone fruit flavors in this simple, straightforward quaffer.
Bright aromas of ripe peach, lime zest, flowers and canned pear lead to off-dry peach and apricot flavors. It brings a lot of appeal.
Bright aromas of rose petal, lychee and peach are upfront on the pretty bouquet of this easy-drinking white, followed by secondary floral hints of sweet pea and orange blossom. The light and approachable palate offers ample acidity and a pleasant ginger kiss that hangs on through the finish. Drink now.
Bright aromas of rose petals and lychee are followed by lightly spritzy, off-dry fruit flavors. It delivers easy-drinking appeal.
Bright aromas of tart apple, melon rind and fresh chrysanthemum dance in the bouquet, while the lively, lightweight palate offers notes of white peach and citrus pith. A subtle astringency graces the close. Drink now.
Bright aromas of toast, spice and pear are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors that persist on the finish.
Bright aromas of vanilla, custard, flowers and peach lead to a creamy palate, filled with vanilla notes. The oak plays a bit too prominent of a fiddle but there are lots of good things going on.
Bright aromas of vanilla, toast and wood spice lead to a full-bodied, rich palate. The style gets out in front of the fruit but there's still much to enjoy.
Bright aromas of wild cherry, iris, rose and a hint of balsamic herb come together on this. The full-bodied palate delivers tart red cherry, orange peel and a green note of sage accompanied by astringent tannins that grip the finish.
Bright aromas of woodland berry, tilled earth and violet waft out of the glass. The vibrant palate offers crunchy red cherry, unripe strawberry and a hint of anise accompanied by racy acidity and firm tannins.
Bright berry and dark spice aromas waft out of the glass. A blend of Sangiovese and Syrah, the easy-drinking palate delivers blackberries, crushed raspberries and ground pepper alongside polished tannins. Drink soon.
Bright berry and red-currant aromas. Lighter in style than Cabs being produced by other LI wineries. The finish turns tough and leathery, not a good match for the delicate fruit.
Bright berry aromas are comported and good. Feels driving and forward, because of its bold acidity and choppy tannins, but tastes nice and dark, with blackberry and cassis flavors. There's a controlled burn to the finish, and overall the wine seems healthy.
Bright berry fruit and a thin, crisp finish characterize this easy-drinking Chianti Classico. It delivers bright aromas of violet, raspberry and forest bramble.
Bright berry fruit is jammy and simply fruity, but clean and soft. Drink this medium-bodied, supple Shiraz over the next year or so.
Bright berry fruit is reinforced by oak-driven aromas of spice, vanilla and tobacco. Give this wine a year or two to integrate. The smoothness and thickness of its texture promise to pair with either meatloaf or pasta with ragù sauce.
Bright berry, rose and baking spice aromas unfold in the glass. The polished palate offers raspberry compote, juicy cherry, licorice, tobacco and chopped herb alongside smooth, velvety tannins. It's already extremely tempting. Drink 2018–2023.
Bright black berry and purple floral notes immediately waft from the glass, followed shortly after by glimmers of sweet smoke, tea leaf and soft leather. Fruit-forward and balanced, the round mouth is framed by medium-fine tannins and lifting acidity. A hint of milk chocolate sexes up the close.
Bright black cherry and raspberry flavors take center stage in this unoaked Cabernet Franc. Juicy and ripe, it's best enjoyed now through 2016 to appreciate its forward, fruity exuberance.
Bright black cherry animates the aromas and flavors of this medium-bodied wine. It is firm in texture, not too complicated or overripe, but just nice and easy to drink.
Bright boysenberry and black-cherry scents are seasoned with clove and nutmeg, and enhanced with gravel and rose-bud aromas. The palate is spicy and juicy, with boisterous black pepper, plum, blueberry and tobacco flavors.
Bright boysenberry fruit is blended with aromas of white pepper, oregano, nettle and rosemary on the underripe nose of this Syrah. The cracked peppercorn flavor shows prominently on the sip, along with elderberry, pine and forest floor. The tannins are oddly sticky.
Bright bramble and forest floor notes are followed by black cherry and blackberry accents. Fresh and tangy, the finish shows enough structure to pair with stewed veal and baked potatoes.
Bright but basic plum, spice and leather aromas are uncomplicated. This feels grabby and rugged, with chewy tannins. Leafy red-fruit flavors offer a jammy side note, while this finishes with dry, scouring tannins.
Bright but spotty on the nose, with salinic red fruit aromas that are one part raspberry and one part pool water. The palate is in the narrow, tannic field but the flavors are good, with blackberry, bitter chocolate and generic darkness working the the palate and finish.
Bright but tart cherry and blackberry flavors are swathed in dusty tannins; the nose offers similar berry and plum aromas. It's a little acidic, but finishes with nice dusty-plum flavors.
Bright Cabernet aromas of blackberry and black pepper are followed by some bitter almond and cured meat tones. It has structure, firmness and intensity, with a medium build.
Bright cassis, strawberry and red currant flavors are on vivid display in this 100% varietal wine. Soft and easy to enjoy, it impresses with full-bodied accetnes of dusty cigar and mocha.
Bright cherry and berry aromas benefit from nicely integrated oak. This cool-vintage wine is slightly pulpy but not heavy on the palate. Plum and currant flavors end with notes of peppery spice, toasty char and lasting berry fruit. Drink through 2020.
Bright cherry and berry aromas get support from grainy, lightly lactic oak. This Syrah is balanced and fresh, with a mild sensation of tartaric acid on the palate. Flavors of loamy berry fruits are mildly spicy but lack serious complexity.
Bright cherry and blue floral aromas come with hints of leather and spice. The vibrant palate delivers succulent wild cherry and white pepper restrained by fresh acidity and bracing tannins. It has mesmerizing depth, finesse and balance. Drink 2015–2028.
Bright cherry and blueberry notes combine with hints of leather, earth, crushed pepper and grapeseed on the nose of this bottling. It's relatively light in body, showing peppery verve on the palate plus blueberry-elderberry fruit and bay-leaf herbals.
Bright cherry and cedary aromas open to a soft mouthfeel and tart blackberry flavors with black toast shadings. The dark flavors and light mouthfeel are a bit out of sync, as if the flavor range demands more weight on the palate. Tart black fruits show on the finish.
Bright cherry and luscious notes of vanilla and spice are backed by deep saturation and a beautifully luminous ruby color. This wine is elegant and generous thanks to its many aromatic layers of ripe red fruit and spice. This is a surprise discovery from a 34-acre vineyard in Panzano-in-Chianti.
Bright cherry and mellow menthol flavors dance on a smooth but firm texture of light tannins in this full-bodied wine. A cedary, minty character lasts into the finish.
Bright cherry and raisins on the nose are followed by red berry fruit and prunes on the palate here. The wine has a savory and sweet cigar box-spice character overall. Good structure and minerality give it focus.
Bright cherry and raspberry flavors and a smooth texture make this wine stand out. Aromas are a bit earthy, mature but slightly floral, and the flavors resemble blackberry jam. While full bodied, it's not very tannic and has an unsually soft mouthfeel for this varietal.
Bright cherry and raspberry tones are enhanced by sophisticated notes of toasted nut and dried tobacco. The wine is smooth and fine with elegant finesse on the close.
Bright cherry and spice color this luminous Merlot that delivers power and definition and is not too weighed down by oak. In fact, this Sicilian red is sprightly and fresh with sweet cherry flavors on the close.
Bright cherry and vanilla ride a smooth, round and robust body of weight and concentration in this tannic wine that finishes with a strong taste of coffee.
Bright cherry and wild berry are lavished in thick layers, adding intensity and persistency. This modern Chianti Classico is 20% (the maximum allowed) Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Bright acidity and vibrant berry flavors characterize the mouth and fuel a lasting fruity impression that would pair well with meat-based pasta or risotto.
Bright cherry aromas and flavors.  Light and easy to drink, with a bit of green stemminess on the finish that adds character.
Bright cherry aromas are youthful and draw you in. In the mouth, this young RDD is clampy and fresh. Plum, wild berry and salty notes define the flavor profile, while the finish is full in feel and reflective of a well-made Tinto Fino.
Bright cherry cola and black currant gives this Brunello a plump and fruity personality that is difficult to find in the wines of 2008. Those fruit notes are raw, bold and are followed by a soft touch of milk chocolate or vanilla. The wine shows a creamy, velvety texture with a point of acidity and alcoholic heat.
Bright cherry cola, dried ginger, cassis and rum cake open the bouquet of this pretty Brunello. This crisp wine offers some complexity, but remains an easy drinking and fresh expression of Sangiovese Grosso overall.
Bright cherry fruit and cassis open the bouquet of this hearty Sagrantino. At the back are savory tones of cured meat, leather and tobacco followed by firm tannins.
Bright cherry fruit expands in the glass, with a hard-candy character, juicy acids, and polished tannins. It's forward, as per the vintage, but structured for further development. Pretty spices and a lick of caramel come up in the finish. Drink now through 2025.
Bright cherry fruit is set against a backdrop of clean earth, while the young tannins are firm and focused. The wine carries balanced suggestions of leaf and herb, and will surely benefit from further bottle age.
Bright cherry red in color, it offers aromas of blackberry, cranberry and freshly picked cherries. Flavors include blackberries, red raspberries and sour cherry pie. It's a bit light when it comes to body but it has a refreshing level of acidity in the clean finish.
Bright cherry, red plum and vanilla notes are well pronounced in the nose and on the palate. There's a touch of cherry-vanilla soda as well. The finish pops with a bright persistence of fruit.
Bright cherryade flavors give an attractive, herbal character. It's not sweet, although there is a suggestion of this. It finishes soft and round, and the wine is not likely to develop further.
Bright citrus-fruit flavors are rounded with warm apple and pear notes on this densely textured, fruity wine. It shows no sign of aging, with a palate that's still fresh and bright, and revealing its minerality and tight acidity slowly. Drink through 2020.
Bright citrus and apple aromas and flavors meet light vanilla and butter nuances in this medium-bodied, dry and nicely complex wine. It goes beyond the simple description of refreshment and takes on more personality and interest.
Bright citrus and bitter almond give this a sharp, tonic personality. Pair this easy, food-friendly wine with sushi or Thai food.
Bright citrus and green-apple flavors lift this wine above the usual butterballs in terms of freshness and lively texture. It is medium bodied, clean and appetizing.
Bright citrus notes open the nose of this golden Lugana and are followed by aromas of almond paste, pineapple and crushed mineral. You could pair this wine with shellfish or crustaceans thanks to the natural thickness and smoothness of its texture.
Bright citrus peel, green apple, fresh grass and savory herbs abound on the nose and mouth of this lively white. The palate is sprightly and refreshing, with zesty acidity and a hint of fynbos herbaceousness on the finish. Drink now.
Bright copper in color, this substantial wine offers light strawberry and plum aromas, ripe plum and pear flavors and a creamy texture. Fruit flavors come out and linger on the taste buds with the help of the soft texture and somewhat sweet finish.
Bright cranberry and cherry fruit bursts out of the glass, beautifully ripe and focused. Crystalline acidity underscores the purity of the fruit, punching through with penetrating depth. The primary flavors, delicious already, promise a long life and further development ahead. Drink 2020–2030.
Bright cranberry and pomegranate notes meet with tart orange juice and zest on the nose of this fresh bottling from the artist-producer. That cran-orange flavor combo carries through the zesty and flavorful sip, with a touch of anise toward the finish.
Bright delivery with aromas of cola, root beer, humus, crème de cassis, forest berry and wild raspberry. It shows finely textured tannins with a bitter almond or bitter chocolate aftertaste. Brambly, sharp, acidic and well defined.
Bright flavors like citrus and crisp apple light up this medium-bodied wine from Lake County winemaking veteran Jed Steele. It tastes dry and fresh, appetizing and just fruity enough to complete the picture.
Bright flavors of fresh-cut Bartlett pears dominate this wine. It's just slightly high-toned, clean and crisply defined. The fruit is the star here, and it's best to consume this lightly chilled and over the next couple of years. As in previous vintages, this was vinted and bottled by Lujon.
Bright floralilty greets the nose on this bottling, which shows lime and grapefruit blossom as well as a lighter nectarine flesh. The palate is restrained and grippy, a tart take on the varietal, with lime sorbet, lemon peel and yellow-grapefruit flavors.
Bright fresh notes of greengage and lemon play on the nose. The palate has the same zippy fruit flavors which are ripe but remain resolutely fresh. The mousse is frothy and lively, accentuating the lemony brightness even more against a more mellow autolytic background. A wonderfully balanced dry fresh apéritif.
Bright fruit aromas open the nose of this ruby-colored Piedirosso. The wine is compact and firm with enough tannins and acidity to pair with cheesy lasagna.
Bright fruit aromas such as wild berry, red apple, white almond and blueberry come to the foreground. This is a still wine but there's a touch of tonic foaminess in the mouth that is followed by a long array of simple fruit nuances.
Bright fruit flavors light up this tart, medium-bodied wine. It smells like raspberries and red cherries, tastes crisp and bright and has a light nip of cranberry-like astringency.
Bright fruit flavors of mountain berries are bolstered with steely acidity. This firm, lightly herbal wine sneaks in a hint of clover as well. It may improve with another couple of years of bottle age.
Bright fruit flavors of pear and tangerine light up the palate, set against tangy acids. A versatile, fresh and quite tasty young white wine, it's best enjoyed right now.
Bright fruit freshness dominates this wine. The fruit is pure, vivid. light and crisp. The acidity is important here, driving the wine in a mineral direction.
Bright fruit notes of stone fruit, citrus and honey appear in an immediate and direct way and are followed by jasmine and chopped white pepper. Pair this luminous sparkler with fried fish sticks or breaded green olives.
Bright fruit tones of cherry, pomegranate and red currant give this Brunello a pristine and youthful personality. The quality of those red fruit aromas is remarkable and the wine shows well-integrated spice, leather and tobacco notes. A very welcome splash of sweet-fruit flavor helps smooth out Sangiovese's natural acidity.
Bright fruit tones of peach, melon and Golden Delicious apple sit with the soft, creamy perlage. Overall, there's a feminine, delicate quality to this sparkler.
Bright fruit, mildly creamy, with good zest and acidity. Shows a sweet, savory center with hints of brown sugar and spice sitting along the edges. Easy tannins make it a friendly style; good for near-term drinking. No cellaring necessary.
Bright fruits in a Port with soft tannins and a structure that pushes blackberry fruit and sweet jelly. The wine is soft, ripe, full, showing some dryness from tannins on the finish.
Bright fruity plum and raspberry aromas are typical of this wine. The palate is a bit rough and abrasive, while flavors of salty plum and chocolate are punchy prior to a solid but basic finish.
Bright garnet in color, this delicate wine has aromas of cassis, sour cherry and violet, plus a drying touch of mineral. The mouthfeel is lean, fresh and sharp.
Bright gold in color, this barrel-fermented GV is soft and round, with flavors of white peach and a slight hint of barrel toast. Drink up while it retains its youthful freshness.
Bright gold in color, this is fragrant of sweet spice, smoke and orange rind. Medium-bodied in style, the palate is a tad tart, with notes of sour apple, lemon and underripe tangerine. Finishes on a sour wood note.
Bright gold in color, this wine's all about sweet tropical fruit, particularly pineapple and passion fruit. An undercurrent of smokiness on both the nose and the palate adds interest and complexity.
Bright gold in color, with creamy custard and caramel aromas. The palate is soft, with banana, baked apple and corn-like flavors, while the finish is heavy and rather mute. Very thick and heavy given the level of balance, acidity and fruit pedigree.
Bright gold in color, with oily aromas of dried apricot, this is distinctly not peppy or lively on the nose. Mature and fleshy in feel, this is on its last legs. Flavors of bitter stone fruits and salt hold steady on the finish.
Bright gold in color, with waxy melon aromas. Waxy melon aromas on the nose lead to peach, toast and beeswax in the mouth. Medium-bodied; a nice mineral-chalk note dries up the finish.
Bright golden color gives way to caramelized oak and densely packed flavors of yellow apple and anise. Crisp, underlying acidity helps balance the lush mouthfeel of luxurious weight and incorporated oak.
Bright grapefruit and citric flavors give the wine a bright, floral character, punctuated by tight acidity. The wine has extreme mouthwatering freshness and a crisp aftertaste.
Bright grapefruit and gooseberry aromas flesh out admirably in the mouth, with tart apple and citrus flavors moving to the fore. Finishes clean and crisp—a perfect partner for shellfish or fresh chèvre.
Bright grapefruit and lime flavors are made round with a note of creamed apple. This is a delicious, full-flavored wine that's finely balanced and crisp on the finish.
Bright green apple and herb flavors and light to medium body make this non-oaky wine refreshing and lean in profile. It has appetizing acidity, a great sense of freshness and a lingering finish.
Bright in acidity, and powerful in flavor, this Chard oozes ripe pineapple, green apple, mineral, honeysuckle and spicy flavors. Totally dry, it's a little tight, and could develop some bottle complexity in a few years. Nice with Asian fare.
Bright in acidity, it's light in texture, soft but firmly structured. Earthy and aromatic in cedar and caramel, it offers nuanced plum and strawberry, with a suggestion of your grandfather's tobacco.
Bright in acidity, which gives it a mouthwatering vitality. It's also a little ripe with Meyer lemon fruit. The result is sweet-and-sour, with the finish turning sugary.
Bright in aromas of pineapple, lemon and green apple, but also boasting sweet cream and yeastiness, this wine is layered on the nose. Zippy and fresh, with ample acidity and flavors of subdued lemon and pineapple, it's an easy wine to pair with dishes from halibut to a more robust pork chop.
Bright in cherry and cranberry, this classically styled Nebbiolo is light red in color and buoyant in acidity. A sanguine back layer brings the earthier elements of the wine to life. With not much Nebbiolo to try in California, this one is worth a taste to savor the possibilities.
Bright in color and full of snappy cherries on the nose. This cherry-dominated profile follows suit on the palate, where the fruit-to-wood-balance swings in favor of the crisp, dry fruit. Charged-up acids provide a jolt, as do the full tannins. It seems to have the right structure to age for a few years.
Bright in color but that's where the excitement ends. The nose has plum, cherry and nail polish aromas, while the palate is sour, sheer, overly acidic and tartaric to the max. Way too sour and sharp.
Bright lemon and apple aromas make for a subtle Gewürztraminer, but this off-dry wine is bright with tangerine acidity and a crisp, blossomy palate. It's straightforward in style but pretty and easy drinking.
Bright lemon and crisp apple aromas lead to similar but richer flavors, supported by firm acidity for balance. It makes for a lively but flavorful package that both tastes great and is versatile with food.
Bright lemon cream flavors follow buttery aromas in this bold, expressive wine. It's showy yet maintains good acidity, its fresh apple notes balancing the butter, vanilla and cream sweetness.
Bright lemon, lime and sweet grass aromas trend toward passionfruit on this fresh, fruity wine from Southern California. The palate is also quite ripe, with green bell pepper, ripe green apples and herbal punch, laid across tongue-tingling acidity.
Bright lemon, nectarine and pineapple tones are touched with green herbs and savory pollen notes in this ephemerally sheer, light-bodied Riesling. Off dry on the palate, it boasts a mouth quenching grapefruit juiciness.
Bright lemon, tangerine and white-floral notes are countered by whiffs of spice and earth on this robust, yet structured, ice wine. The mouthfeel is rich and lush, but brightened by clean, focused acidity and a hint of bitter grape tannin on the finish.
Bright lime skin, grapefruit pith and soda character show on the nose of this tight and clean bottling from the appellation's vanguard vineyard. The sip is all about texture and energy, with pear-skin flavors that are soft but grippy, plus acidity that is strong but never searing.
Bright mango and pineapple tones are cut by laser-sharp edges of lime in this delicately structured dry Riesling. Invigorating white grapefruit and a steely sensation gild a lingering finish.
Bright melon and lime zest aromas lead to lightly sweet, broad, fleshy fruit flavors in this wine. It's not entirely representative of the variety but still brings a lot of freshness and appeal.
Bright melon, lemongrass, kaffir lime and Anjou pear aromas show on the very citrusy nose of this low-alcohol, high-residual-sugar bottling. The viscous sip is expectedly sweet, with lime0-mousse flavors and a decent acidity that cuts through the palate.
Bright minerality wraps around a taste of wet stone and unctuous, buttery apple in this silky smooth and well-integrated wine. Lemon rind and brioche each make strong companions to the concentrated richness and ripeness of the finish.
Bright nuances of black cherry and prune are backed by softly toasted aromas of nut and spice. The one year of oak aging has helped to further soften the wine's velvety texture.
Bright olallieberrries, fresh lilacs and crushed graphite show on the rather boisterous nose of this bottling. The wine is quite soft upon the sip, starting a tad sweet and then gaining more serious notes of oregano, tarragon, mint and anise, all presented with strong acidity.
Bright on the nose with purple fruit, black raspberry and dried strawberry, this blend holds 34% Syrah, 33% Grenache and 33% Mourvèdre. Aromas gain complexity thanks to asphalt in the background and a lifting dried-mint scent. Tar, dried cherry, tart pomegranate and cranberry show on the palate, along with floral elements of hibiscus and rose.
Bright onion skin pink wild strawberry flavored wine, with fine crisp acidity and a touch of caramel. The wine is light, fresh, fragrant, ready to drink.
Bright orange-blossom scents mingle with spices and limes; there's plenty of acid despite the 1.9% residual sugar. Soft fruit on the palate, where it's elegant, in a sensual way. A perfect summer white.
Bright orange and pretty white floral aromas meld luxuriously with a sultry petrol undertone on this Niagara Peninsula Riesling. The off-dry palate offers a refreshing shower of lime and sour tangerine flavors accented by earthy heather and slate notes. For such a bargain price, it's hard to beat this beauty.
Bright orange blossoms, tangy lime, fresh rain, quince, green tea, jasmine and even a sesame element shine through on the nose of this bottling that carries a distinctively Asian character. Exotic citrus and brisk melon flavors show on the palate, which is lined with an ethereal undercurrent of bound up, bone-dry energy.
Bright orange citrus coupled with rich aromas and flavors of green apple, underripe peach and soft fresh grass fill the nose and mouth, with a lively tart acidity cutting through and keeping things lively on the palate. Mouthwatering and easygoing; drink now.
Bright pink and cheerful, this boasts aromas of raspberry, wild berry and cherry candy. Soft, creamy bubbles enhance the wine's natural sweetness.
Bright pink in color with orange highlights, this light-bodied wine tastes fresh, lightly fruity like raspberries and cranberries. It has a crispy tangy acidity for an appetizing texture.
Bright pink in color, a caramel flavor resting on taut strawberries and a fresh berry character. There is a touch of apple to go with the light, bright style. Drink this year.
Bright pink in color, this 100% Touriga Nacional rosé is ripe with caramel and red berry flavors. It misses out on acidity, leaving the wine flat at the end.
Bright pink in color, this is a fresh rosé, just off dry, with lively citrus and wild strawberry fruits. Acidity cuts through the wine, making it crisp and ready to drink.
Bright pink in color, this is a fruity as much as rich wine. It has freshness, cherry flavors with acidity and an intensely candied, honey-sweet finish. It's complete enough to drink by itself.
Bright pink in color, this is a soft, ripe and fruity wine. It has a light texture that supports the raspberry flavors. A delicate cut of acidity comes through at the end. Drink now.
Bright pink in color, this is fresh and light. With candied strawberry flavors and a soft texture, it is made in a fruity apéritif style.
Bright pink in color, this looks and tastes like candy. There is the lightest touch of acidity to at least bring some crispness to this sweet wine.
Bright pink in color, this rosé is full in the mouth with red berry flavors and intense acidity. A touch of bitterness gives a sharp aftertaste.
Bright pink in the glass, the nose is full of bruised apple-peel hints. The frothy palate then majors on ripe juicy red-apple flavors and boosts them with bubbly foam. The finish is dry and very refreshing.
Bright plum and berry aromas are clear but basic. In the mouth, this young wine is crisp, tannic and a touch citric. Wild berry flavors dance alongside peppery spice notes, while the finish is zesty, a touch bitter and hot.
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.
Bright pomegranate and red cherry flavors penetrate this bracingly fresh Lemberger. The palate is primary and fruity, but nuanced by wisps of smoke, nuts and a lingering ruffle of tannins. It's an elegantly structured yet refreshing, quaffable wine.
Bright purple flowers, boysenberries, tar and a waxy, fruit-coating aroma show on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard near Los Alamos that is known for Rhône varietals. Tart boysenberry, plum, raspberry and elderberry appear on the sip, which is strong in acidity. Touches of white pepper, oregano, anise and charcoal accent the finish.
Bright purple in color, this dwells on the natural dark fruitiness of Malbec, without any wood aging. Black currants and berries dominate this bright wine with its attractive acidity. It's a wine to drink now for its vigorous fruitiness.
Bright raspberry and fresh-pressed bramble make for a nicely snappy nose that also conveys a touch of rust, graphite and earthiness. Tart cranberry and plum skin mesh into mineral tones of slate and pencil lead, all lifted by bay leaf and dried sage. It needs time to reach full potential.
Bright raspberry and leather aromas set up a tight palate ringing with acidity. That creates a narrow flavor profile with drawn cherry and currant flavors. A minty, lightly herbal finish carries notes of leather and oak-based bacon, which frankly seems a bit forced given the simplicity of the wine.
Bright raspberry and strawberry flavors kick off this well-balanced effort. It's buoyed by ample natural acidity and adorned with highlights of pastry and baking spices. It expands gracefully as it breathes, adding volume and density. Give this extra cellar time. It should drink best from 2018–2030.
Bright raspberry and tart red--cherry notes are juxtaposed with complexities of garrigue and bramble in this elegant, spry rosé. Nuanced savoriness lends a slightly cerebral tone that's unexpected and intriguing, but also particularly suited for pairing with grilled meat and fish.
Bright raspberry aromas are cut by a slightly funky touch of composting violets, dried bay leaf and animal hide on this deeply layered bottling from the legendary producer. The palate is equally complex, with mulberry, tangy cranberry, juniper and earthy mushrooms. It offers a great experience for the price.
Bright raspberry fruit dominates here, backed with ample acidity. Give it a little breathing time and it fleshes out and lengthens. At this stage the fruit is clean and primary, but the overall structure suggests giving it another couple of years of bottle age for prime time enjoyment.
Bright raspberry, cherry and rose petal aromas meet cola spice on the pretty, delicate nose of this bottling—a solid example of the surge in quality of Central Coast Grenache. There is a tense tannic structure to the palate despite its light nature, with great acidity presenting tangy red and purple fruit flavors, with more rose petal accents.
Bright red-berry aromas, decent weight and slightly tough tanins in the finish all point to this as a good partner to grilled burgers this summer.  100% Merlot.
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.
Bright red-fruit aromas give this wine its signature fruitiness. Red currant and spice come together to give a crisp texture. The wine should be ready from 2018.
Bright red-fruit aromas of currant and raspberry open this Itata Valley Cinsault. In the mouth, this feels wiry and shearing due to high acidity. Tart as well as buttery flavors of red plum and raspberry finish quick and salty.
Bright red-fruit tones of hibiscus and pomegranate meet with dried fennel on the complex nose of this bottling from the winery owned by pioneering vintner Louis Lucas and his friend, Judge Royce Lewellen. It's light bodied, but with a grippy texture, showing candied rose petal, thyme and roasted red-fruit flavors.
Bright red-fruited wine, its acidity well blended into the soft, full fruit. The wine has spice, toast, wild herbs.
Bright red-skinned berry, new leather, herb and dark spice aromas waft out of the glass. It's medium-bodied on the palate, with star anise and tobacco notes adding depth to the fresh cherry core. Taut, refined tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2024.
Bright red berry and cherry fruits are well up front in this wine that has crisp acidity as well as a more rounded background that will develop well. Juicy and fruity, the wine will be ready to drink from 2018.
Bright red berry and violet aromas lead off this soft, medium-bodied red. The palate offers dark cherry and a whiff of white pepper alongside round tannins. It's already accessible so enjoy soon. Drink through 2017.
Bright red berry, blue flower and baking spice notes lift out of the glass. Light-bodied and accessible, the palate offers red cherry and star anise flavors held together with pliant tannins. Drink through 2021.
Bright red berry, blue flower, chopped herb, menthol and cake spice aromas lift out of the glass. The bright, elegantly structured palate delivers juicy Morello cherry, raspberry jelly, white pepper, anise and a hint of game while fine-grained tannins provide polished support. Drink through 2022.
Bright red berry, white pepper, clove and cinnamon aromas take center stage and follow through to the palate along with a note of dried sage. Dusty, rather fleeting tannins offer support.
Bright red cherry and chewy blackberry notes are followed by sweet spice, nutmeg and cinnamon. There's a grapy element to the bouquet that underscores the wine's youth and informality.
Bright red cherry fruit and lively acidity give this wine an immediate burst of crispness. It has an attractive tannic character underpinning its ebullient fruitiness. Drink now.
Bright red cherry fruits, fresh and light with fruit acidity and the minimum of tannins.
Bright red currant and Cran-Grape juice aromas battle it out with a rare meat note. Flavors of black cherry, red currant, flint, cedar and iron ore are set against smooth tannins. The finish is long and woody.
Bright red currant is complemented by dark, brooding black fruit tones in this complex, nuanced and grippy wine, young and showy in its mountain genetics. Forest floor, mint, cedar and graphite fleck the fruit, with complexity knocking on the door.
Bright red fruit aromas are followed by flavors of fresh berries and caramel. This is a light, crisp, soft rosé refreshed by intense finishing acidity.
Bright red fruit complements mellowed tannins in this estate-grown wine that's moderately complex and layered. Cedar and herb show up in spades.
Bright red fruit highlights this soft wine. Acidity and hint of stalky tannins give its red berry flavors a boost. It's easygoing and ready to drink.
Bright red fruit stars in this classically made wine, which is full bodied and quite concentrated in flavor. A moderate structure supports flavors of cassis and currant, accented in toasty oak and bay laurel. The tannins are lush and plush.
Bright red fruit, plum and spice aromas are followed by a combination of smoke, spice and red fruit on the palate. The wine is focused around cherry-fruit tones and overall shows good balance.
Bright red fruit, raspberry and blueberry open the bouquet of this pleasantly fragrant Lambrusco. There's a touch of sticky sweetness in the mouth followed by creamy foam.
Bright red fruits achieve a decent amount of ripeness, but unfortunately, there's not a lot of concentration. The spice-laced finish is long, aided by soft tannins and notes of leather, tobacco and earth.
Bright red fruits dominate this approachable wine that offers smoky tannins along with spice and acidity. With a fresh, fruity aftertaste, the wine will develop quickly. Drink from 2018.
Bright red fruits give this wine a fresh, vivid character. It has dry fruit tannins, firmly mineral. The berry fruits are what drive this wine forward, and promise a good partnership with food.
Bright red fruits in this attractive cherry and banana flavored wine. It has a soft tannic edge, laced with acidity and finishing spice.
Bright red fruits like raspberries and cherries light up the aromas and flavors of this deeply colored, nicely concentrated and velvet-textured wine. It has great fruit that wells up, fills the mouth with flavor and then hangs on for a long finish.
Bright red plum fruit is underscored by strong herbal aromas in this widely available bottling. It's fruity on the palate, with a green pepper edge that grows minty as it approaches the finish. A great, refreshing style of Cabernet for barbecues.
Bright rosehip and fresh acidity, a lively crisp wine with some attractive acidity over the citrus and mulberry fruits. Screwcap.
Bright ruby in the glass, this wine is a blend of the Bastardo grape with indigenous varieties Saperavi and Rara Neagra. It offers a fruit-forward bouquet of cherry and blackberry. On the palate, flavors of freshly picked plum and black cherry with a touch of green pepper are sheathed in a lattice of supple tannins.
Bright smells of freshly shredded lemongrass and orange blossom lift off of this Riesling that gets an aromatic boost from 11% Gewürztraminer. On the palate, it is smooth but slightly sweet, with orange soda flavors and a nice herbal twist of chamomile tea.
bright sparkling wine made from Ribolla Gialla grapes, this has thick aromas of stone fruit, butterscotch and caramel. The finish is fresh, with creamy effervescence.
Bright sparks of red currant, black cherry and cassis provide this full-bodied wine with a juicy, rounded personality. Bold tannins frame its dense layers of fruit, complemented by sultry, gamy meat and smoke accents.
Bright spice, tobacco and leather make for a warm, brooding personality that characterizes Mocali's gorgeous Brunello. But the fruit is by no means missing. In fact, loads of cherry and blueberry help to liven the wine's densely extracted mouthfeel.
Bright strawberry and cherry aromas are followed by a fruit cup of tropical fruit, cherry and strawberry. Easy-drinking but on the sweet side, this will pair well with fruit or spicy dishes.
Bright tangerine and honey notes intensify from nose to palate on this zesty dry Riesling. While light-footed and spry, it's a racy citrusy wine with persistence and presence. It's dry through the finish, but marked by a lingering kiss of honey.
Bright tangerine and honey notes lend a sunny demeanor to this voluptuously dry Riesling. Ripe grapefruit and lemon flavors penetrate through the palate, finishing on a steely tang of acid and minerals.
Bright tangerine and wet stone notes kick off the palate in this light-bodied Chardonnay. As it opens, those notes develop into more defined lemon and tart green apple flavors. It's nice, vibrant and ready for salty food.
Bright violet in color and well extracted, but also vegetal. You'd think from the hue and vintage that it would be seamlessly ripe, but it seems green at the core. Thus while it delivers texture, rich plum fruit and tannic structure, there's a gap in  clarity of fruit flavor.
Bright watermelon and raspberry candy flavors are sunny and fresh on the nose and palate in this easygoing rosé. Crisp acidity makes it especially thirst-quenching. Enjoy now.
Bright waves of cola and clove provide underlying spiciness and freshness to this thick, juicy wine. It explodes on the palate, with crisp red-fruit and orange-peel flavors.
Bright while also jammy, this is a ripe wine dominated by rich red fruit. The core of tannins doesn't disturb the strawberry flavors and the crisp acidity. The wine is already developing well. Drink from 2019.
Bright with a touch of smoky leather, this ripe, full-bodied red is lengthy and lush on the palate, seasoned with black pepper, mocha and blackberry preserve.
Bright with fresh apple and pear aromas, this off-dry style Riesling is a sunny, cheerful wine that melds the sweetness of tangerines with a high-toned acidity.
Bright young wine, with an attractive lemon character, very fresh and crisp. Simple Muscadet for the summer.
Bright, almost luminous Meyer lemon and orange hover like a halo. The palate intensifies this ripe but zesty purity even more. The fruit is pulled into lemony focus at the concentrated core of this sleek, moreish Viennese original.
Bright, appley aromas and ripe apple and peach flavors make this light-bodied wine fresh and appealing. It tastes slightly off dry, with an engagingly smooth texture.
Bright, beautiful and balanced, this tiny production wine is aflutter in high-toned citrus notes, melon and peach. A well-crafted marriage of power and sophistication, the aromatics of wild jasmine shine, while texturally the wine is round and softly layered.
Bright, bouncy aromas of cherry and pomegranate are mild, dusty and typical of a carbonic macerated Tempranillo. This feels chewy and plump, but simple. Medicinal cherry and raspberry flavors are spunky on the finish.
Bright, bouncy cherry and plum aromas; wood and earth are interspersed with mixed cherries on the palate. A straighforward, enjoyable Grenache.
Bright, brambly berry and forest floor notes open this bouquet of this 80-20 Nergroamaro and Malvasia Nera blend. Touches of cherry and sun-ripened prune also make an appearance, especially on the finish.
Bright, brash fruit sets this off on the right note, with raspberries and strawberries and even a little watermelon in the mix. Fruit defines the middle, and extends through to the full, ripe finish.
Bright, cheery plum and cherries abound on this juicy, primary Cabernet Franc. Forward and fruity, it's plump and rich in texture with a soft fringe of tannins. Hints of menthol and cherry blossom perfume add lift.
Bright, cheery whiffs of sugar cookie crumbs and Meyer lemon zest perfume this sunny off-dry Riesling. On the palate, sweet-tart tangerine mingles into more savory notes of bees wax and pollen. The finish is brisk but refreshing.
Bright, citrusy yellow, this wine conveys a nutty, creamy custard and marshmallow component to the nose. Fuller-bodied in substance and style, it nonetheless remains stony and steely on the palate, finishing with a twist of ginger and dried herb. It will be a fine fit with food.
Bright, clean and linear with pretty accents of spice, blackberry, leather and lingering tobacco, Villa al Cortile Riserva is the kind of wine you'll want to pair with a hearty meat dinner. The wine shows velvety, soft texture in the mouth.
Bright, clean flavors of cranberry and strawberry make this dry rosé easy on the palate and the wallet. There's a fruity kick on the nose followed by a dry but flavorful wave of flavors that seem perfect for a picnic or summertime sip under flapping sails. Pair this with seafood or poultry or experiment a little—its refreshing, crisp quality will play well with most foods.
Bright, clean, crisply rendered raspberry fruit—nicely spiced—really shines here. This relatively modestly priced cuvée carries itself with style and elegance, still young, tight and tart, with plenty of medium-term aging potential.
Bright, compressed fruit stars in this approachable and affordable Pinot Noir that's rounded with tannin and focused acidity. Cranberry, orange, cherry and cola flavors highlight its medium-bodied power and concentration.
Bright, concentrated pineapple, lemon and tangerine flavors take center stage in this cutting, unoaked Chardonnay. It's sunny with fruit yet keenly balanced by puckery lime acidity and a dusting of minerality. Drink now through 2019.
Bright, crisp and fresh, as a 2009 Clare Riesling should be, this is a pretty wine, blooming on the nose with floral notes, apples and citrus fruit. The lime and green apple flavors are zesty on the finish, but not that long or intense. Probably best from now–2014, but could develop interesting nuances beyond that.
Bright, crisp and fruity, this is a classic white Bordeaux. It is fresh with just a touch of herbaceousness, followed by a riper orange and green plum character. The aftertaste brings in spice as well as fruity acidity. Produced by Crus et Domaines de France.
Bright, crisp raspberry flavors on a bone-dry wine. It is fresh and vibrant, a light touch of caramel and powerful acidity.
Bright, crisp red cherry and blackberry flavors drive a refreshing, fruity personality. Touches of nutmeg and vanilla show through, but this is not an oaky wine by any means. It will please a crowd and pair well with a wide variety of foods.
Bright, crisply fruity and with delicious acidity, this is a wine to drink now. It has a lively apple and grapefruit flavor that's all freshness and fruitiness. This is a wine to drink now.
Bright, distinctive fruit impressions pop through a layer of smoke and bacon aromas as this full-bodied but balanced wine opens up. Jazzy flavors like raspberry and cranberry meld with bass notes like blackberry as firm tannins and good acidity give it great structure, too.
Bright, dusty leather is a highlight of this structured, meaty, balanced wine, firm and grippy in tannin. Red berry and coffee complement each other to find a tension between fruit and spice.
Bright, firmly structured and full of classic berry and savory flavors, this wine is rich but balanced and ready to serve with a steak, chop or rack for a special occasion. It has ripe fruit bolstered by firm acidity and a healthy coating of fine-grained, grippy tannins. Best after 2020.
Bright, fleshy dark-fruit flavors of plum, blackberry and boysenberry all unfold on the nose and in the mouth of this value-priced wine. Hints of mocha and pepper add interest to the palate, with approachable tannins and a balanced, easygoing structure.
Bright, floral and intriguingly juicy, it reveals incredible brightness, all red cherry with hints of lavender and violet. Remarkably low in alcohol, (12.9%) it nonetheless tastes fully formed, mid-weight with a touch of oak on the finish, a testament to incredible raw ingredients and respectful winemaking.
Bright, forceful and slightly reductive, this white is aged less than a year in neutral French oak, allowing the fruit to speak and offer richness on the midpalate. Gingerbread and lemongrass flavors accent its essential core of green apple fruit.
Bright, forward fruit and spice characterize this very rich, complex wine. The aromas veer toward banana and ripe peach and pear, with oriental spices, vanilla, and toast. In the mouth, the flavors are fruity, with a leesy streak. High acidity makes it a little sharp, while the texture is creamy. All in all, it's very balanced, except for that sharpness, which a year or two of aging should mellow.
Bright, forward fruit flavors of cherry lollipop are backed with refreshing minerality. The mouthfeel and lively fruit flavors suggest popping this one soon, while the pretty primary fruit remains in full bloom.
Bright, fragrant, youthful and fruity, this is an attractive wine. Almost purple in color, it has soft tannins that add just a light touch of texture. Enjoy this wine now. Screwcap.
Bright, fresh and crisp, this lovely Sauvignon shares lots of the lively characteristics we usually associate with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Yet this all-Italian expression reveals familiar tones of sweet basil, cherry tomato leaf and Amalfi lemon instead.
Bright, fresh and fruity, this is loaded with citrus—especially grapefruit—goodness. There are layers of pears and peaches, making this a big, fruity, mouth-filling wine.
Bright, fresh and inviting, with floral and herbal notes upfront, complemented by tart pomegranate and cranberry fruit on the palate. Drink this medium-bodied wine over the next few years.
Bright, fresh and vivacious, this bottling from the historic vineyard offers white flowers, sea salt, lemons and buttered white peaches on the nose. Apple flesh and lime rind sizzles into the citrus-driven palate, where a touch of lemon verbena adds complexity to this straightforward and delicious wine.
Bright, fresh apple and lime notes are accented with an earthy, minerally complexity on this multifaceted Riesling. It's semi-dry in style with forward, juicy apple and nectarine flavors brightened with notes of lime zest and a distinctly herbaceous finish.
Bright, fresh fruit and dried herb aromas combine with lively but concentrated and tannic fruit flavors in this big but well-behaved wine. The texture balances lavishness with a bit of astringency in an attractive and appetizing way.
Bright, fresh fruit mingled with a spicy toast give this wine a joyous but serious edge. Fresh but complex, with ripe fruit and spicy flavors and a lingering finish. Pair with richer seafood dishes, poultry.
Bright, fresh raspberry fruit takes the center stage in this young and still rather tight wine that will reward further cellaring. There's a hint of metal in the acids. Drink 2020–2030.
Bright, fresh strawberries combine with a hint of green herbs for an attractive nose. But the flavors of this 50-50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are less effusive. Still, it finishes lemony and tart, making it a fine summer sipper.
Bright, fresh wine with a light wood touch. The acidity highlights black currant flavors exacerbated by some greenness.
Bright, fresh, fruity and light bodied, with pretty peach, apple and spice flavors that leave a crisp, clean and pleasant finish. Fairly sweet, but refreshing.
Bright, fresh, green fruits and creamy acidity set this wine happily on its course as a delicious apéritif drink. The crisp fruit is great, while the finish is certainly green. Screwcap.
Bright, friendly and pure mandarin flavors make for a very appetizing, fruit-forward wine. The same friendly, sunny mandarin fruit fills the palate with its tension between citrus tartness and luscious sweet freshness. Bruised apple peel makes an attractive appearance on the lasting finish that concludes with lots of freshness.
Bright, fruity and crisp, this silky-textured rosé has a refreshing finish and bold, pink bubble-gum-like (but dry) flavors. Drink now.
Bright, fruity and deliciously crisp with a creamy mousse, this is a citrus and apple flavored wine. It has a bone-dry character with a mineral and lemon zest texture. It's ready to drink.
Bright, fruity and fresh, this familiar Vinho Verde brand does exactly what it's meant to do: provide a refreshing, light glass of wine. Apples and citrus easily carry the lightly sweet flavors and blend with an orange zest texture. Drink immediately.
Bright, fruity and with light tannins, this is a generous, open approach to Malbec. It has fruit more than structure, plus plenty of black plums and ripe berries sharpened by acidity. It's ready to drink.
Bright, fruity aromas and straightforward cherry and strawberry flavors make this a rather light, fresh wine. It has good balance between the almost-sweet fruit and lively acidity, so it stays appetizing on the second and third sips.
Bright, fruity Sauvignon Blanc that has a touch of tropical fruits as well as more citrus and grassy characters. Klassik is the most open, attractive, ready-to-drink style from Styria. Screwcap.
Bright, generous and intense, this offers shadings of spice and leather around dried berry and cola aromas. The overall effect is that of power, complexity and balance.
Bright, generous and straightforward, Soave Classico San Michele makes a perfect pairing partner to white asparagus or spring peas. The wine delivers pretty aromas of honey, peach and grapefruit.
Bright, intense and compelling, this Syrah has bold fruit and a soft, velvety mouthfeel. A wine to be consumed at casual and dressy occasions alike.
Bright, intense, spicy and sharp, this right bank-style Bordeaux blend brings red currant and berry scents and flavors. There is a chocolatey layer right under the fruit, but it's not entirely integrated, though these are good components. Give this one more bottle age.
Bright, jammy aromas and ripe, lively, chocolate and cherry flavors give a lot of personality to this velvet-textured wine. Medium to full bodied, it has a good blanket of fine tannins to coat the tongue and give the wine grip.
Bright, jammy red-berry aromas are gritty and a bit herbal. A fleshy, jammy mouthfeel belies the snappy raspberry and blueberry flavors that follow. A lot of blue-fruit character and herbal notes grace a high-energy, bright finish. Drink through 2023.
Bright, juicy acidity perseveres around a rich, concentrated core of baked apple and pear. A strong cradling of toasted oak supports the fruit and creamy texture, finishing in a flourish of floral apple blossom and salty brine.
Bright, juicy red raspberry and bramble aromas meet red spice and earthy loam characteristics on the nose of this bottling. Medium in density on the palate, it's playful and flavorful, if not especially complex, with hints of wild thyme giving herbal nuance its core of red fruit.
Bright, lean and vibrant, this is a medium-bodied rosé with gingery-citrusy notes that could go well with fish or poultry dishes.
Bright, light and totally fresh, this is a delightful rosé. It has wild strawberry flavors, laced with acidity. There's some spice as well, giving a balanced wine. It is fine both as an aperitif and with food.
Bright, light oak shadings dress up this medium-bodied wine, complementing the red cherry and strawberry flavors. It's fresh, fruity and not very tannic—easy to drink and enjoy.
Bright, light, fresh and fruity, this is a perfect apéritif. It has red berry fruit and crisp acidity, and it is smoothed with a touch of vanilla. The herbal finish has bite.
Bright, lightly-smoked red currant and berry fruits dominate this juicy, fresh wine. A plum-skin texture leads on to some firm tannins. The aftertaste is fruity and light.
Bright, lively and buoyant, this Brunello offers great aromatic intensity overall. It definitely shows a bright vein of acidity that runs straight through the wine and holds it tightly together. Pair it with oven-baked cheese flan or crispy fried potatoes. You need fatty foods to match that sharp acidity.
Bright, lively and fruity, this is a delicious, crisp, dry Vinho Verde from the north of the region, close to Spain. It has citrus notes, a bright texture, lively acidity and a touch of spritz.
Bright, lively notes of yellow peach, apricot and melon adorn the bouquet of this attractive white, while hints of spiced orange, ginger and fresh herbs mingle in the background. It's medium weight and well balanced, with ample acidity and final touches of rosewater and sweet spice that grace the finish. Drink now.
Bright, luminous and soft, this has a bouquet of spring flowers and exotic fruits. It's soft, with a sweet intensity that's not overdone or heavy. This is made by one of Europe's most successful wine co-operatives.
Bright, moderately complex aromas of stone fruits and minerals precede a firm, lemony palate with familiar, highly fresh tangerine and nectarine flavors. This holds its form and snap on the finish. Drink during 2016.
Bright, playful berry and plum aromas are clean and fruity. Fresh and juicy, it shows firm but not jagged acidity. Flavors of ripe plum, berry, cocoa powder and herbs finish in forward fashion and not too oaky.
Bright, polished and fleshy pear flavors hold center court here, supported with a light sprinkling of peppery herb. Proportionate acids keep the wine crisp and clean through the finish.
Bright, punchy raspberry, pomegranate and cherry aromas properly announce cherry and raspberry flavors. This feels snappy, with a medium body. Light spice notes accent bright red-fruit flavors on the finish. For a carbonic macerated Rioja, this is pretty good.
Bright, red berried wine from the charity-owned vineyards of the Hospices de Saumur. It has soft tannins and an attractive ripe cherry juice character, layered with acidity.
Bright, ripe fruit is the name of the game in the mouth, where blackberry and red plum are countered with a manageable amount of oak. Tannins are chalky; bouquet and finish are more subtle and a little oakier.
Bright, ripe red plums predominate in this wine that tastes very young, intensely fruity and veering towards dryness. Rich and juicy, it is still developing its mature velvet character. It should lose some its primary fruits and become more balanced, so wait until 2016.
Bright, ripe strawberry and cherry flavors are contrasted with the firm tannins of wood aging. This is a very young wine, with layers of acidity, spice and toast. Drink from 2016.
Bright, ripe, seemingly sweet fruit fills the aromas and flavors of this soft and generous wine blended from Pinot Noir, Pinotage and Pinot Meunier grapes. It floods the palate with rich raspberry and black cherry notes. And since the tannins are very light and the acidity low, it has a pillowy texture.
Bright, round and delicious, this has exotic fruit, white flower and cantaloupe aromas that follow through to the lively palate, along with honeydew melon fruit. It has noteworthy freshness for the vintage.
Bright, round wine, with a layer of firm mineral tannins, but more about black berry and plum fruits, jammy acidity and a finishing dry structure. This second wine of Vray Croix de Gay will be ready in 2–3 years.
Bright, sappy, with fresh raspberries, mocha, moist earth and light details of green herb. With alcohol just over 14%, this has young vine flavors, a bit less concentration than the very best Washington Syrahs, but it's balanced and tasty.
Bright, savory and so easy to drink, this charming red opens with a fragrance of freshly picked red berries and baking spices. Reflecting the nose, the fresh, polished palate doles out wild cherries, strawberries, cinnamon and white pepper framed in silky tannins. Serve slightly chilled for a perfect summer red. Enjoy soon.
Bright, sharp and easy citrus aromas open the bouquet of this Extra Dry expression. The wine seems to hold back in terms of intensity, but it certainly delivers freshness followed by smooth, creamy mousse.
Bright, simple and clean, here is a bubbly Lambrusco that opens with tones of forest berry and wild strawberry followed by a touch of bitter almond skin.
Bright, simple and moderate in acidity and body, with a wealth of ripeness, this wine offers a strong sensibility of smoked cherry and cola flavor, finished in oaky vanilla.
Bright, soft and attractively fruity, this is an easy, open wine. An edge of acidity and minerality give the wine a good, crisp texture. Drink now.
Bright, soft and herbaceous, this has a touch of sweetness as well fresh fruit. Citrus and gooseberries abound with only the lightest structure to hold it together.
Bright, spicy oak flavors liven up this wine, from the first cedar-laced whiff to the well-structured texture and lingering finish. While not too full-bodied, it does have firm, grippy tannins—a rare thing for a wine this reasonably priced.
Bright, succulent berry tones are followed by a touch of smoked meat and wet earth that is typically found in the Barbera grape. This expression also has a hint of tobacco and exotic spice at the back that gives it more dimension and personality.
Bright, tangy, lean and appetizing, this light-bodied wine has mouth-cleansing acidity, lemon and green apple flavors, a zingy balance and clean, dry finish. Time to bring on the oysters or goat cheese.
Bright, tart fruit conjures up fresh raspberries and cranberries, with potent acids and light hints of metal shavings and dried leaves. A lovely wisp of cinnamon toast elevates the finish.
Bright, textbook, loads of Sangiovese intensity with complexity and tight aromas of wild berry, blueberry, almond, white pepper, spice and rum cake. Tight and streamlined in the mouth. Needs more time to soften with cellar aging.
Bright, vivid and sizzling on the nose, then zesty, tight and acidic in the mouth, with high-toned plum, berry and red currant flavors offset by a touch of milk chocolate. Long on the finish, but not that nuanced or complex.
Bright, vivid flavors like black cherry and cranberry make this wine taste fresh and alive. Medium body and a somewhat tart but polished texture balance it out.
Bright, zesty lemon appears alongside yellow Mirabell plum that also pervades the palate. There is linear focus, as befits an icewine made from Riesling—and if you have desserts that feature confit lemon, this is what you need. Incredible that something so rich should be so wonderfully light at the same time.
Brightened with crisp acidity, this Viognier shows pure, vibrant flavors of tropical fruits, green apples, peaches, honeysuckle flowers and white pepper. It's a clean, strong wine, lovely for an apèritif.
Brightened with zesty, lime-juice acidity and a cooling minerality, this Chardonnay features ripe, forward tropical fruit, orange and peach flavors, with a touch of buttered toast and vanilla. It's fancy enough to drink now with shellfish, tuna tartare, stuffed mushrooms, tempura, or even an upscale pizza.
Brightly colored, this wine is full both of fruit and smoky tannins. It is structured now, firm with its dry core. Around it, fresh blackberry and red-berry fruits are beginning to show well. Drink this attractive wine from 2018.
Brightly fruity, this blend with 85% Sauvignon Blanc goes for the tropical-fruit character of the grape. Attractive acidity and a zingy edge are balanced by ripe apricot and pineapple flavors. Drink from late 2017.
Brightly jammy in strawberry and cherry, this wine is relatively big in style, firm and tannic, with alluring aromas of rose petal. It needs time to open, but will reward those with patience, maintaining freshness on the palate via its balanced acidity, with a tartness on the finish.
Brightly perfumed wine, its acidity coming from a delicious array of white fruits, citrus and green plums. It has some sweetness, making it a fine apéritif style.
Brightly perfumed with violet aromas, this is a soft, round and voluptuously lush red wine. Full-bodied, it shows leather and baked black cherry notes.
Brilliant acidity and a firm minerality give this wine structural integrity despite massively ripe tropical fruit and honey flavors. It has a lush, rich opulence to pair with buttery lobster, shrimp, scallop and similarly rich dishes.
Brilliant acidity gives the lemon, lime and mineral flavors a bright mouthfeel that gets those tastebuds whistling. Drink this wine on its own as an apéritif, and it will also be fine with Chinese and Indian food.
Brilliant acidity gives this wine a clean raciness that so many Sauvignon Blancs lack. It has ripe, forward flavors of lemons, limes, apricots, peaches and honey, but despite the richness is dry and minerally.
Brilliant acidity, dryness and tangy minerality mark this Chardonnay. The grapes come from the estate vineyard in the cool, southern part of the valley. Shows tangy, steel-tinged flavors of pineapples, oranges and honeysuckle, with an extraordinary richness that finishes dry.
Brilliant and luminous, this tasty Picolit offers pretty golden highlights and aromas of citrus zest, almond, honey and cola. It exhibits a traditional, elegant style and ends with bright,  refreshing notes of acidity.
Brilliant and vibrant yet concentrated, with tangerine, yellow peach and honey flavors, this wine is a roller coaster of flavors and textures on the palate. Luscious sweetness is balanced by bracing acidity and a lingering saffron-kissed finish. Drinks beautifully now, but will deepen in intensity for decades to come.
Brilliant aromatics rise up in layers of fruit, mineral, nutmeg and clove notes. The full, round mouthfeel doesn't confuse weight with intensity. Tart cherry, tar and dried flowers on the palate play into to a seductive finish where the cherry and licorice elements dance on and on. American grand cru Pinot Noir.
Brilliant Chardonnay, compulsively drinkable. You'll find a fabulous array of flavors, ranging from pineapples, mangoes and limes to lees- and oak-influenced smoke and creamy vanilla. There's also a juicy streak of crisp acidity and a flinty tang of minerals in the finish. Very fine.
Brilliant gold in color, this wine by Santa Barbara's pioneering Rhône house shows pressed white flowers, bruised apple and a touch of iodine on the nose. It's quite heavy on the viscous palate, with a sense of fish oil as well as caramelized apple, iodine, roasted almonds, singed marshmallow and dried apricot. It's a very meaty white wine.
Brilliant golden color promises richness. The nose obliges with a seamless scent of apples: fresh and ripe, baked and mellow. The palate shows soaring freshness, but countless notions swirl on the dry palate of this traditional field blend: citrus and apple, pear and blossom. There is so much fruit, so much expression, this is pure exuberance, but in a rather grown-up way. A very apt expression of both the freshness and the richness of Alsace.
Brilliant golden hay in color, this is a dry, intense sparkler, made from 75% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Gris. It offers complex highlights of lemon and apple on the palate with plenty of minerality.
Brilliant pink with a touch of orange, this refreshing and light-bodied wine tastes fresh and strawberrylike. It has an appetizingly crisp texture and clean fruity finish.
Brilliant strawberry and raspberry aromas, bright and effusive fruit flavors, and a sense of freshness and purity make this wine from one of El Dorado County's oldest wineries a pleasure to drink. It's full bodied, has a smooth texture, mild tannins and a lingering finish.
Brilliant yellow with green highlights, this Bulgarian Sauvignon Blanc has aromas and flavors of tropical fruits like mango, papaya and kumquat. There's gentle acidity in the palate and generous mouthfeel.
Brilliant, crystalline freshness tinged with chervil and lemon is the impression on the nose. The palate is rounder than the nose suggests but has the same brilliance and lightness of flavor. Sylvaner is an underrrated grape that is all about subtlety and herbal nuance. This lovely, expressive but light-bodied example has it in spades. Lemony freshness resonates long.
Brilliant, fresh wine, very bright and crisp with an attractive touch of toast to go with the fragrant berry fruits. Elegant and light, it is a fine, refreshing Crémant.
Brilliant. That crisp, tart Edna Valley acidity provides the perfect counterpoint to the orange, peach, apricot, honeysuckle flower and mineral flavors. This unoaked Riesling is a joy to drink. The winemaker suggests Mexican dishes, but it's super-versatile.
Brilliantly aromatic, this wine beguiles with exotic scents of plum pudding, spice cake, cherry compote, pipe tobacco, red licorice and raspberry jam. All that and more can be tasted—the wine is a riot of fruits and baking spices. This makes the best possible case for Mourvèdre as a stand-alone varietal wine here in Washington.
Brilliantly colored, with dynamite concentration and lovely black fruit and earthy aromas. Precise on the palate but also big and muscular, with silky tannins, grip and a late rush of deftly applied French oak. Delicious and a fine reflection of the Uco Valley, Argentina's top Malbec region.
Brilliantly crisp and lushly creamy and honeyed, just a beautiful Chardonnay that offers decadence and sheer deliciousness. Massive in grilled pineapples, green apples, ripe nectarines and butterscotch, brightened with mouthwatering acidity. A joy to drink.
Brilliantly dry and acidic, an Old World-style wine whose price shouldn't mislead you. This is a serious food wine, dry and minerally, with lemon and lime flavors. The score would be higher if not for a very slight vegetal note.
Brilliantly dry and rich in acidity, this Pinot feels very refined in the mouth. With relatively modest alcohol, it offers an elegant and refreshing alternative to the heavy style of many California Pinot Noirs. Offers notes of earth, cherries, mushrooms, spices and sweet sandalwood.
Brilliantly fresh wine, with vivid acidity, and attractive apple skin texture and final mouth-watering crispness.
Brilliantly fresh, this wine is tight with acidity and textured with zingy citrus. Layers of apple and toast are already integrated in this bright wine. It's tangy, lively and likely to be ready to drink from 2017. The wine comes from the highest vineyard in Chassagne.
Brilliantly ripe in pure, clean cherries, black raspberries, red currants, cola, vanilla, buttered toast and sandalwood, this lovely Pinot Noir is backed up with crisp, cool-climate acidity. It's very fine and classic now, and should hold for a few years.
Brilliantly ripe pineapple, tangerine and lemon fruit flavors mark this savory young Chardonnay. It shows the citrusy acidity of the cool-climate Edna Valley, with a long, spicy finish. Clean and mouthwatering, it offers a lot for the price.
Brimming with cherry jam and cola flavors that are a little sweet, this Sangiovese benefits from fine acidity and smooth tannins. It's a wine to drink now with everything from burgers and lasagna to a grilled flank steak.
Brimming with ripe black plum and cherry flavors, this densely concentrated wine is unabashedly fruity and forward. It's well balanced though, showcasing crisp acidity and nuanced hints of rose petal and granite. Fine-grained but penetrating tannins persist on the finish.
Brims with briary blackberry fruit, spicy and ripe, enhanced with a layer of oak. It's a little jammy and hot, and also is quite tannic, but there's a firm nobility in there. Give it a good decant and enjoy.
Brims with dark fruit notes of mulled boysenberry, cassis and black cherry, all streaked with spicy accents of menthol and black tea leaves. The mouthfeel is slightly creamy, but framed by medium tannins. Notes of licorice stick, espresso and roasted cocoa nibs linger through the long close. Drink now–2014.
Brine and oak accents cradle this impressive wine's elegant green apple, wet stone and lime notes. Bold and concentrated yet complex, it's balanced by lively acidity and persistent freshness.
Brined berry aromas meet an aroma of wet cement. This is medium in body, with herbal berry and chocolate flavors ending on a mild stewed and minty note.
Briney and cidery smelling, with a heavy, disjointed, cloying palate. Herbal and grassy on the finish, with a sweet, green aftertaste offset by some bitterness. Verdejo is the grape, and that's not common.
Bring on the barbecue for this explosive, high-octane Zin. Ripe to the point of overripe, it shows flavors of blackberries, currants, cassis and raisins, liberally dusted with crushed black pepper and unsweetened cocoa. The bigtime tannins will cut through rich meats slathered in BBQ sauce.
Bring on the BBQ and don't worry about analyzing this lusty red wine. It's full-bodied and dry, and blasts off in the mouth with explosive blackberries, currants, mulberries, leather, mocha, violets and spices. Super-easy to drink, and to like.
Bring on the burgers and veal parmesan for this dry, exuberant table wine. It's tannic, with earthy flavors of cherries, currants, tobacco and oodles of peppery spice.
Bring on the canapés to eat with this dry, crisp and savory Sauvignon Blanc. And look at that everyday price. The wine is high in acidity and dry, with palate-stimulating lemon, lime, honeysuckle, spice and vanilla flavors.
Bring on the cheeseburgers! This is an outrageously delicious, easy-drinking Zin that will fall in love with charbroiled beef and melted cheese. It's not a terribly complicated wine, but perfect for immediate enjoyment with comfort foods.
Bring on the pizza, pasta and barbecue. Here's a good everyday red at a fair price. It's dry and sturdy in tannins, with berry, cherry, tobacco and spice flavors.
Bring this bottle straight to the cellar. Don't even think about opening it before, say, 2013. All you'll get is a mouthful of hard, sandpapery tannins. But it's a very deeply flavored Cabernet, packed with massive blackberry, black currant, plum and cedar flavors, and there's a granitic minerality that must come from the soil. Very finely crafted.
Bring this down to the cellar and let it sleep for at least 5–6 years. It's super-tannic, giving a hard, angular mouthfeel, even though the blackberry, cherry, currant and cedar flavors are powerful. It just wants to throw some sediment and let that mountain fruit shine.
Bringing out all the minerality of the chalk soils, this rounded wine is also packed with rich fruits. The wine is just approaching its peak, showing wonderful lemon and white stone fruits.
Bringing out all the perfumed herbaceous character of Colombard, this has some softness along with freshness, flavors of pink grapefruit and green plums, finishing brightly. Screwcap.
Bringing out the crispness of a Touraine Sauvignon, this wine is full of herbal flavors, crisp acidity and a soft fruity character. It is immediately attractive, simple, bright and ready to drink.
Bringing out the herbaceous side of Alvarinho, this is a freshly crisp wine. It has grapefruit and green apple flavors, with the acidity brightening the texture on the finish.
Bringing out the pepper character of Grüner, this is classically structured wine. It has all the right freshness along with a light poise and elegance. Green plums and lime clinch a final roundness. Screwcap.
Bringing together fruit from the different soils of Pouilly Fumé, this rich wine offers pear and apricot flavors as well as a strong citrus element. It also is a smoky, steely wine with a firm texture that underlies the fruit. Drink from 2017.
Bringing together in its name two important aspects of Provence, flower (lavender is a major local crop) and the sea, this wine is soft and fruity, with just the right balance of acidity and ripe fruit flavors. It is refreshing, open and ready to drink.
Bringing together multiple sites in one wine, this provides a fine example of the sum equalling more than the parts. Well balanced and crafted, it offers aromas of sandalwood and smoked meat that contrast with more exuberant, textured layers of black cherry and citrus peel.
Bringing together old vines from a number of the Chablisienne cooperative's vineyards, this wine is concentrated and finely structured. Its rich creamed apple and tangy orange zest flavors are lit by acidity and a mineral edge. Drink from 2018.
Bringing together the fruit of the vintage with some firm structure, this is going to be a ripe and balanced wine. It will also have plenty of juicy acidity and black currant fruits. Let this wine develop and don't drink before 2020.
Brings a welcome restraint to Cabernet, offering a dry, somewhat tannic wine of great elegance. Easy to like for its balanced flavors of blackberries and black currants, with gentle influences of oak. Pretty good price for a wine of polish and sophistication.
Briny and dark copper-orange in color, this is a weighty wine, though the alcohol level is low. The tannins and leathery texture of the Syrah shine through, checked by tangy citrus and a hit of white pepper.
Briny apple and lime aromas set up a minerally, fresh, natural palate with stony lime, green apple and white-pineapple flavors. Par for the brut nature course is a stony, chiseled finish that frames the wine's crisp, lean character.
Briny apple and nectarine aromas are within the proper framework of brut nature. Citric and stone-fruit acidity makes for a racy palate, while this tastes mostly of peach and nectarine along with some salt and brine. A firm finish is acidic and dry.
Briny apple and pear aromas are solid at first, then more pickled as this opens. A flat palate doesn't display much edge or acidity, while pithy, lightly bitter flavors of lettuce and apple end short.
Briny apple aromas are crisp and focused, with side notes of pickle juice and matchstick. A round but firm palate is in fine shape, while this tastes savory, dry and sophisticated, with notes of sea brine, melon and green apple. A touch of salt graces a pure finish. This certified organic bottling dwells at the high end of the Cava spectrum.
Briny aromas are less than fruity. This feels oily and round, with flavors of tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango set against nectarine and stone-fruit notes. Plump on the finish, with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Briny aromas include too much mussel shell, sea water and compost. This wine is spritzy and coarse-feeling, with briny, pickled flavors of sauerkraut, scallion and sea shell. A briny finish leaves offputting lasting flavors.
Briny aromas of citrus and chlorinated pool water dominate the nose. Flavors of corn and briny stone fruits are pushed by strong acidity on the finish. Otherwise, there's little else on offer.
Briny aromas of gooseberry and citrus are a touch sweaty. In the mouth, this is medium in weight. Flavors of briny grapefruit and other citrus fruits finish similarly. The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Tempranillo.
Briny aromas of green olive and popcorn lead to a flat wide palate. This tastes salty, oaky and short on fresh-fruit flavors. A plump chunky palate, much like the nose, comes across flat and low on pulse.
Briny aromas of lime, jalapeño and minerals filter into a juicy, acidic palate with flavors that match the nose: briny citrus, lime and bell pepper. A narrow feeling finish turns pithy and bitter the longer this sits.
Briny aromas of orange peel are not exactly popping. This feels healthy and balanced, although white-fruit flavors are yeasty, bitter and gritty, while the finish tastes pithy and underripe. For Uruguay's leader in Albariño, this is not a sterling vintage.
Briny aromas of oyster shell blend with green onion, lime and matchstick scents on this sulfuric-smelling SB. Tangy and round, with an oily note to the mouthfeel, this tastes of salty lime, tangerine, saline solution and pickle brine.
Briny aromas of sauerkraut fail to make much of an impression. This is dull in feel, with bitter, fruitless flavors. On the finish, bitterness remains. Drinkable but with few positives.
Briny aromas of seashell and beach grass fold in red fruit scents and leather. This high-acid wine delivers a crisp one-note mouthfeel and zesty, herbal flavors of red fruits and oak.
Briny aromas of tomato are low on fruit and and instead show more oak tones. This feels round, saucy and resiny, while the flavor profile is built around oak, briny red fruits, tomato and spice. A solid-feeling finish is modest in terms of flavors.
Briny berry aromas turn dull and flat with airing. This is hollow and weak on the palate, with sour berry flavors and an acidic finish akin to tart fruit juice.
Briny cherry and raspberry aromas offer up a note of tire rubber. Muddled cherry and berry flavors finish short, and overall this wine lacks character.
Briny cherry and red-currant aromas are light. This feels sharp on the palate, with fresh flavors of red plum, tomato and a salty hint.
Briny cidery aromas are fortunately not that loud or intense. This is wide and generous on the palate, with dry briny stone-fruit and apple flavors. A sense of dryness and pickle brine is amplified on a purposeful finish.
Briny citrus-peel aromas show a pyrazinic green side and a touch of corn tortilla. A somewhat dilute palate is bolstered by a shock of citric acidity, tasting of stone fruits and citrus. On the finish, early nectarine notes are replaced by briny flavors.
Briny citrus and grapefruit aromas are controlled. This feels simple and a bit hollow, while pyrazine-based flavors of grapefruit and green veggies finish bland, with lingering citrus notes.
Briny citrus and green-fruit aromas reflect cold-climate origins. This is zesty yet round, with acidic grit and bite. Green pepper, jalapeño and green melon flavors finish spicy and tangy, like bitter lettuce mixed with passion fruit and tangerine.
Briny citrus and hay aromas lead to a palate with mild citric acidity. Saline-influenced flavors of stalky white fruits and white pepper finish with dry citrus notes.
Briny citrus and petrol aromas are unusual for Macabeo. This basic white tastes like lemon-infused water. Yeasty, leesy white-fruit flavors are low on steam. Drink Now.
Briny citrus and sulfuric match-stick aromas lead to an edgy but fresh palate. Flavors of dry citrus and generic tropical fruits finish with citric acidity and monotone juiciness. Overall, this is a tart, fresh cleanser.
Briny citrus aromas announce a palate with citric acidity. Similar briny citrus flavors are one-dimensional, while notes of hay and green herbs pop up on a racy finish.
Briny citrus aromas are hanging in there but may not hold steady for much longer. This feels about right, with lightly green, pickled citrus flavors suggesting bitter grapefruit pith on the finish.
Briny citrus aromas are mild to the point of quiet. This clear-looking SB is in solid shape on the palate. Peppery lightly zesty flavors include a note of sweet green melon, while this tastes a bit like jalapeño peppers on the finish.
Briny citrus aromas are pungent, and in general this runs strong on pyrazines and bell pepper scents. A tight, juicy, firm palate is home to citric flavors of pink grapefruit and orange.
Briny citrus aromas come with a mild cheesy accent. In the mouth, this is fresh and clean, with typical rosé Cava flavors of pepper, milk chocolate, plum and cherry. The finish feels a touch clunky but overall this Trepat-based bubbly gets it right.
Briny citrus aromas sit side by side with notes of celery stalk and tropical fruits. This brut is simple in feel, with a mild to flat bubble bead. Dry, lightly bready flavors of white fruits and vanilla are a bit toasty on the finish.
Briny citrus, feline notes and pithy scents send this Merseguera-led blend toward a pulpy, citrusy palate. Grapefruit and pithy, lightly bitter flavors finish citric, with little change from the wine's primary flavors.
Briny citrus, green melon, bell pepper and grassy aromas are 100% coastal Chile. This has a citrusy yet round palate that's lively but not overtly complex. Salty, briny flavors of lime and white grapefruit ride through the finish.
Briny citrus, match stick and yeasty aromas are a bit jumbled on the nose. The palate is minerally and nicely textured, with grapefruit, passion fruit, tarragon and lemongrass flavors. A lingering lime note hits on the finish.
Briny citrus, saline and lees aromas drive the nose on this minerally Albariño that also offers mild oak notes. Flavors of green banana, peach, apple and woodspice finish crisp and with a touch of elegance.
Briny grassy aromas are barely ripe and smell of match stick. This feels citric and more or less normal for a coastal SB. Pithy flavors of grapefruit skins blend with passion fruit in front of a juicy finish that tastes of white grapefruit and green herbs.
Briny grassy aromas of apple and citrus are yeasty as well. This Chardonnay-Pinot Noir blend is foamy and active, while flavors run towards slightly bitter and yeasty, with fruit hard to find. A similar finish renders this good but with issues.
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.
Briny lemon-lime aromas are simplistic. This blend of Moscatel and Merseguera is foamy, while good acidity keeps it on a level plane. Ripe, sweet flavors of lychee, honeydew and mango are pure Moscato, while acidity from the Mersequera helps this along.
Briny lemon-lime aromas come with a note of scrambled egg, which is not uncommon for Cava. Fresh and easy across the palate, this tastes of lettuce, dried apple, white pepper and salty brine. A dry, lightly salty finish maintains integrity.
Briny like lime salt, this coastal wine is lovely in stony mineral and tart oak. Medium bodied and moderate in acidity, it refreshes in a context of refinement and grace.
Briny nectarine aromas set up a fresh palate. Standard stone-fruit flavors and apple notes finish steady and a touch sweet, with citric acidity.
Briny notes of oyster shell blend with spicy barrel notes and core apple aromas on the bouquet of this crisp, pure, minerally Chardonnay. Flavors of apple, quince, orange marmalade and minerals finish sturdy and secure.
Briny notes of pickled cabbage and cider seem alarming at first but prove to be misleading. This is quite elegant, lifted and clean on the palate, while mature flavors of sourdough bread, apple, pear and dry spices finish smooth and long. Drink now.
Briny orange, grapefruit and grape-skin aromas announce an oily adequate palate. This has a gritty salty bitter-citrus flavor profile and a finish that's oddly nutty.
Briny pickled aromas are just clean enough to pass muster. This simple Viura is lemony and tangy on the palate, with saline-influenced flavors of citrus fruits and bell pepper. On a snappy finish, a briny flavor leads the way.
Briny pithy citrus aromas and a standard-feeling palate tell you this is regular but solidly made. Citrus flavors are largely ripe, while pithy grapefruit notes are found on the finish. Drink now.
Briny raspberry aromas are a bit murky. This smacks down hard with acidity, while the flavors run toward earthy, generic plum and berry. A salty finish with animal notes is firm but struggles with cleanliness.
Briny red-fruit aromas are earthy and horsey yet light and agile. This is a wiry, citric, juicy Pinot, with earthy, tangy flavors of currant and red plum. A zesty yet tame finish renders this right for its straightforward mold.
Briny saltwater aromas dominate a mild mostly fruitless nose. This feels basic and round, with a lemony streak. Mild nectarine flavors don't amount to much, while this is simple and generic on the finish.
Briny stone-fruit aromas are sweetened by notes of apple blossom. A full, slightly foamy palate is lively but brusque, while this tastes of yeasty peach and apricot in front of a mildly bitter finish.
Briny stone fruit aromas lead to a pulpy palate in this medium-bodied wine. Its ripe white fruit flavors show no signs of oak, tasting melony and finishing short. Drink as soon as possible for best results.
Briny tropical-fruit aromas suggest pickles and cactus. This is chunky in build, with citrusy acidity. Briny citrus flavors cannot be further defined, while citric acidity keeps this fresh through the finish.
Briny tropical fruit and minerally aromas are most prominent on this white wine made from Jaen, a.k.a. Mencía. The palate has a leesy quality to it, but overall this feels standard, with mild melon and vanilla flavors.
Briny, bready aromas of apple cider set up a smooth but slightly soft palate. Flavors of nectarine and green herbs finish short and briny, like an echo of the nose. Drink now.
Briny, cidery aromas are a touch stale. This has a basic citrusy mouthfeel along with flavors of orange and tangerine that turn mildly bitter and pithy on the finish.
Briny, cool-coast aromas of pinched plum and berry lead to a full-bodied palate bolstered by high acidity. Tart plum, cherry and herbal flavors finish crisp, short and basic. This is a good, standard Pinot Noir, nothing more or less.
Briny, dusty, bready aromas set up a lively but foamy palate. Soda cracker, briny citrus and dried apricot flavors finish salty, pickled and dry, with hints of leftover citrus and green herbs.
Briny, elegant and made in a lighter, delicate style, this is a lovely high-toned wine from estate vineyards, with stony minerality and a persistence of peach. Delicious and ideal for the table, it's made by well-respected grower and winemaker Steve Matthiasson, who's done fine work here.
Briny, leathery, horsey berry aromas are alarming at first but settle in due time. A chunky mouthfeel struggles before finding its timing, while oaky flavors of hickory, bitter char and black fruits finish baked and herbal. This is good but raw, raspy and green.
Briny, leesy aromas are funky and sweaty, not clean and lean like most Txakoli. Snappy, citric and decidedly not spritzy, this tastes of lemon, underripe nectarine and tart green apple. A cleansing seltzer-like finish is the closing act.
Briny, lightly green citrus aromas are round and pungent. A juicy, crisp mouthfeel is formed by citric acidity, while flavors of stony lime and green apple finish crisp and in fine form.
Briny, minerally aromas of vitamin dust and lees feed into a yeasty, round, melony palate. Flavors of yellow apple, mango and mustard finish yeasty, soft and briny.
Briny, minerally, dusty aromas of white currant and crushed vitamins set up a foamy, lazy palate. Salty flavors of apple and persimmon finish flat, with a briny aftertaste.
Briny, pickled aromas come with hints of citrus and flower blossom. This fast-aging Albariño is melony in feel, but it lacks the variety's patented kick and acidity. As a result, peach and apricot flavors are fleshy and chunky.
Briny, pickled, stalky red-berry aromas are sketchy. This feels tannic and raw, while the flavors are more weedy, green and bitter than fresh and exciting.
Briny, powdery white-fruit aromas are offset by vanilla cookie notes and a hint of bath soap. This feels foamy and chunky, while lemon-lime and melon flavors finish bland but inoffensive.
Briny, rich and layered, this is an interesting white from a Russian River Valley-based producer who is sourcing Malvasia Bianca in this case from a vineyard in the Suisun Valley, inland and east of the Napa Valley on the way to Sacramento. Dry and crisp, the typically Greek varietal in this version has hints of honey and nuts and dried fruit. Drink it young.
Briny, rubbery aromas of asphalt and blackberry set up a fat, wide palate. Herbal, green-infused berry flavors finish with notes of carob, herbs and field greens. The round mouthfeel and textural balance are this wine's strong points.
Briny, rubbery aromas turn gamy and horsey in short time. This varietal Garnacha feels raw and low on body. Salty, herbal tomato and red-plum flavors finish with a flavor akin to Mexican salsa.
Briny, sea foam aromas sit on top of papaya and corn on this oaky, resiny Chardonnay. Woody flavors are up front and immediate, with secondary flavors of clove and peach that end with sawdust.
Briny, slightly herbal aromas suggest lifted horse hide and leather notes. This is lively on the palate, with herbal, foxy flavors of plum and cassis that finish with toasty oak, licorice and heat. This is a bright, honest introduction to what Priorat wines are about.
Briny, thick and gravelly, this is a blend of 42% Roussanne, 20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Picpoul Blanc and 18% Marsanne, fermented half in neutral French oak and half in stainless steel. High-toned acidity and citrus wrap around salty, herbal undertones, finishing crisp and light.
Briny, vegetal aromas of asparagus and jalapeño lead to a viscous palate with blazing coastal acidity. Flavors of lime and tangerine are offset by vegetal bell pepper and asparagus notes, while this feels round, oily and smooth on a finish with good acidic cut. Drink now.
Briny, wiry red-fruit aromas are mild but saucy. This blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo feels ordinary, while flavors of briny plum are fresh but limited. A finish with a healthy pulse is fine for what this is.
Briny, with a hint of salted caramel, this is a high-toned white wine, refreshing in lemon and pear notes, with a slight suggestion of orange peel that's entirely welcoming. Focused and crisp throughout, it remains vibrant amid a creaminess to the mouthfeel, finishing with the right balance of both.
Briny, with a taste of salted kettle corn, this offers a nice balance between an edgier, more savory character and the fine-tuned minerality that extends into the finish as bristles of Meyer lemon and wet stone. The aromatics reveal an inviting touch of orange peel and lemon custard.
Brioche and buttered bread aromas lead the way on the nose. Malic acidity creates textural freshness, while yeasty flavors of green apple finish on an underripe nectarine note. Drink through 2020.
Brioche and vanilla-cherry are the stars in this full-bodied yet savory, herbal wine sourced mostly from the Oak Knoll District. Complex in flavor, it spikes in clove and cinnamon, finishing with a taste of gunpowder and tobacco.
Brisk acidity and a crushed mineral sheen add levity to this dry, richly textured Riesling. The palate shows cool, penetrating lime zest and lemongrass tones. It's an elegant, subtle wine from a vintage that produced quite a few bruisers in this region.
Brisk acidity and a lean but smooth profile characterize this taut, somewhat tart wine.  A very inviting vouquet with cherry, cinnamon, clove, cedar, and tobacco notes sets a pretty stage for the palate, but after the great setup the wine delivers rather uninspired and predictable tart berry and sour cherry Barbera flavors.  The sour plum and earth finish is full but quite dry.
Brisk acidity and a steely, minerally dryness make this Chardonnay particularly savory. The citrus flavors suggest limes and Meyer lemons, with suggestions of toast and vanilla. It's an elegant wine and easily worth the price.
Brisk acidity and dry, somewhat astringent flavors of peach skin, Meyer lemons and honey characterize this wine, made from one of Burgundy's minor grape varieties. It's vaguely Chardonnay-like, yet leaner and subtly oaked, making it versatile with a wide range of foods.
Brisk acidity brightens the cherry flavor in this clean, dry Pinot Noir. The fruit is young and sappy. If you drink it now, decant it for a few hours. Otherwise, give it a year or two.
Brisk acidity brightens the ripe raspberry and cherry fruit, giving it a clean, lively mouthfeel. There's a jacket of tannins, but it's fine and easy, and oak brings just the right touch of sweet toast flavor. Lovely to drink now, and it should develop bottle complexities over the next 8–10 years.
Brisk acidity contributes just what this jammy wine needs. The white peach, tangerine, Meyer lemon and oak flavors have a honeyed sweetness that would be cloying without that tart finish.
Brisk acidity gives this Sauvignon Blanc a mouthwatering quality, but it's pretty ripe, with flavors of white sugar, lemons and pineapple. Will pair well with salty, savory foods like sausages, ham or teriyaki chicken.
Brisk acidity is the best thing about this sweet Sauvignon Blanc. It has jammy flavors of pineapples and oranges. Bring on the sausages and ham.
Brisk acidity provides a bracing balance to the ripe pineapple, pear and peach jam flavors, and there's a nice streak of minerality. However, the wine is far too sweet, and is cloying in the sugary finish.
Brisk acidity, dried herbs, green olives, white pepper and minerals add complexity and earthiness to the raspberry, cherry and cola flavors of this Zin. It's dry on the finish, and stylish enough to accompany fine steaks and rich cheeses, with of course plenty of crusty bread.
Brisk acidity, like a squeeze of lime juice, highlights the intense cherry, cola and spicy oak notes in this single-vineyard Pinot Noir. Widely likeable yet complex, it's a beautiful steak wine now, and should evolve positively for at least six years.
Brisk and bright aromas of grapefruit and lemon start this assertive and distinctive Assyrtiko. On the palate, mineral and crisp flavors are balanced by a savory spin on the backpalate. Balanced and multilayered, the wine will pair with spicy and delicate foods alike.
Brisk and bright, this bottling showcases a more cutting expression of Merlot. Crisp black cherry and plum flavors are accented by bramble and a touch of sage. The finish lingers long, fringed by fine, firm tannins.
Brisk and bright, this delicately framed Pinot Noir offers both elegance and thirst-quenching quaffability. It's fresh and primary, bursting of raspberry and blossom, but finishes suprisingly long with a murmur of feathery tannin. Drink now.
Brisk and bright, this straightforward white blend offers fresh apple and pear flavors accented with a streak of grapefruit acidity. It's dry in style with an easy, quaffable character.
Brisk and clean, this dry white is the 
anti-Chardonnay, marked by tart citrus flavors that make it versatile with a wide range of foods.
Brisk and elegant, this wine has an alpine feel that accentuates its lean, cutting profile. The palate is a tad austere, highlighting minerality and acidity over fruit, but a touch of white grapefruit peeks through nicely on the finish.
Brisk and fruity but with a distinctive note of spice and pear, this Moschofilero offers approachable, ripe-fruit expression with an exotic edge. Pair with grilled seafood, Chinese cuisine or fruit salad.
Brisk and grapefruity, with perhaps some touches of ruby red or cherry as well. Despite the crispness, this is relatively easy to drink, because it also has a plump midpalate and friendly nature. A versatile seafood white.
Brisk and lean with a crisp red currant and plum profile, this dry, medium-bodied Cab is pleasantly structured with sturdy tannins and a fresh, herbal midpalate. A bit lacking in intensity and depth, and the finish fades out quickly, but on a sweet vanilla-kissed note.
Brisk and light-footed, there's a delicacy and restraint to tart grapefruit and honeydew flavors in this off-dry Riesling. It's not a deeply concentrated or complex wine, but offers thirst quenching refreshment. Drink now.
Brisk and lively, this wine is a bit shy on the nose at first, then reveals red and purple flowers, dark fruit, brown spice and a touch of shattered asphalt. The palate is quite tarry despite being lighter, with blackberry-juice flavor and lots of acidic pizzaz.
Brisk and nervous on the palate, with searing lemon-lime acidity, this slightly off-dry wine is well-balanced, with delicate apple and blossom flavors. It's long and mineral on the finish, with just a touch of sweet white peach.
Brisk and refreshing in the mouth, with stimulating acidity. But it's a little too sweet in the combination of jammy citrus fruit and smoky oak.
Brisk and simple, this vibrant red has aromas and flavors of tart red berry, rose and an herbaceous note. It's on the lean side, with bracing acidity and fleeting tannins that give it an abrupt finish.
Brisk and vibrant with juicy plum, cherry and earthy herbal flavors. Accents of cocoa and thin mint develop on the lingering finish. Drink now.
Brisk aromas of apple, squeezed lemon, pear flesh and a steely minerality show on the nose of this widely available wine. The palate offers candied apple, seared pear slice and a tangerine-pith grip.
Brisk freshness characterizes this Pinot from Richard Sanford, a pioneer in the region. The wine presents violet and elderberry on the nose and is soft yet extra-expressive once sipped, with mocha, strawberry, black tea, and, on the edges, a grapefruit peel bitterness.
Brisk in acidity and bone dry, this Pinot is elegant, although it falls short on opulence. The flavors are of sour cherry candy and cola.
Brisk in acidity and minerally, with a tantalizing scour of steel, this Riesling is so clean and stimulating. With green apple, citrus and floral flavors, it straddles the boundary between dry and just off-dry. What a wonderful cocktail wine with puff pastry appetizers.
Brisk in acidity, this everyday Sauvignon Blanc has ripe, bright flavors of tangerines, peaches and pineapples. It's a good by-the-glass wine for restaurants.
Brisk in acidity, this Riesling is absolutely dry, although it offers a sunburst of ripe apples, Meyer lemons and spices. There's a touch of that telltale diesel fuel for interest. With low (13.4%) alcohol, it's easy to drink. Fine now with halibut, trout, or with a simple but elegant grilled chicken.
Brisk in acids, with lush, long hangtime lemon, kiwi, tangerine and vanilla flavors. It's all upfront in this drily delicious Chardonnay.
Brisk lemon and apple notes are delicate and unassuming on the nose, making the blossomy, peachy palate on this Chardonnay a pleasant surprise. Despite its bold alcohol, zesty acidity lends freshness and the finish is invigoratingly mineral.
Brisk lemon and lime peel aromas are followed by delicate flavors of grapefruit, white peach and sea salt in this sophisticated white. Elegant and exotic, it has an ageable character and a versatile, food-friendly style. Beautifully rendered and a testament to Santorini terroir.
Brisk lemon freshness sets the tone on the nose. The very frothy mousse on the palate continues in this fruity, exuberant and fresh vein. The finish is superclean, brisk and dry, creating an ideal and invigorating apéritif-style for summer days.
Brisk lemon peel and crushed mineral tones lend vibrance to this dry, full-bodied Gewürztraminer. Bright tangerine and lychee on the palate linger with a touch of earth and pollen on the finish. Drink now through 2019.
Brisk lime acidity gives the raspberry, cherry and currant liqueur flavors a bright mouthfeel. Oak brings richness and additional tannins. The wine is dry and elegant, with complex flavors to drink over the next few years. Give it some time in a decanter.
Brisk minerality and a hint of hazelnut add savory tones to this blend of indigenous Georgian Rkatsiteli and Chardonnay. It's dry and full-bodied, yet surprisingly sprightly, with bright acidity and delicate flavors of stone fruit and citrus rind.
Brisk nectarine and just a touch of apple frame the nose, and warmer, expressive flavors of peach make for a perfect poolside beverage.
Brisk red-apple flavors govern nose and the crisp palate. A lemon backbone of freshness brightens everything. The finish is clean and appetizing.
Brisk tobacco and red fruit aromas mesh with sanguine iron and cola notes on the nose of this appellation blend. The flavors are quite rusty, with fresh plum, sour cranberry and a bit of pencil lead.
Brisk, bright acidity brings a tang to the tropical fruit, pear and citrus fruit flavors. The oak seems a bit prominent, flooding everything with caramelized butterscotch and vanilla extract.
Brisk, citrusy acidity acts as a lever to the raspberry and cherry fruit flavors, lifting them to bright zestiness. The wine is a vintner's blend of barrels from across the large vineyard. There's a jammy directness that makes it instantly tasty, but it's not an ager. Drink now.
Brisk, citrusy acidity is the best thing about this wine, giving it a clean, tingly mouthfeel. The palate offers jammy flavors of apricot and mango that finish on a candied note.
Bristles of lemon-lime acidity lend energy and vibe to this unusually refreshing Gewürztraminer. Perfumed with ripe tropical fruit and voluptuous on the palate, it maintains varietal typicity, but has an irresistible zest that's worth seeking out.
Bristling acidity lends vitality to this full-bodied Chardonnay. Fresh tangerine, lemon and lime flavors are moderately concentrated on the palate, accented by touches of savory nut and smoke.
Bristling grapefruit pith and gooseberry notes are concentrated and crisp on this bright, punchy Sauvignon Blanc. While delicate in body, partial skin contact seems to lend richness to palate, freshened by swathes of herb and orange blossom on the finish.
Bristling in acidity and steely in wet stone, this SB is crisp and layered in lemon, with more lemon on the finish. It yearns for shellfish.
Bristling lime acidity and savory tones of herb and smoke contrast ripe tangerine and cantaloupe flavors in this dry single-vineyard Riesling. It's a concentrated, powerful wine, but feels tart and tight still, suggesting aging till at least 2016 would be best.
Bristling with lime zest and a steely, mineral tone, this dry, moderate-bodied Riesling is elegant and refreshing from start to finish. It's packed with white peach and apricot flavors, but zippy and bright with hints of fresh herbs that linger on the finish.
Broad-grained oak aromas drape heavily on this toasty, ripe Mencía from a hot vintage. Powerful yet balanced, it tastes of ripe blackberry, black coffee and burnt toast. A dark, smoky finish and rubbery tannins confirm its amplitude. Drink with strong cheeses or hearty meats.
Broad across the palate, the new vintage of Redhawk's estate bottling opens with mixed berry and watermelon flavors, and thins out quickly. The fruit is outweighed by the alcohol, which is strong enough to burn a bit in the finish.
Broad across the palate, this brings flavors of orange soda and orange candy, with a grainy impression. It's fruit forward, with a quick fade.
Broad and a bit flat on the palate, this wine has flavors of lemon and grapefruit rind, light stone fruit and a dash of mineral.
Broad and earthy, with a dash of funk and a peppery lift, this grips the tongue with authority and power. It's poised and tense, as if balanced on the edge of a precipice, with the fruit, herb, roasted earth and coffee notes all tumbling around in glorious profusion.
Broad and easy in texture, this is tempting to drink because of its near sweetness. Baking spices, possibly from oak add-ins, fill the aroma, and candylike cherry and strawberry flavors flood the mouth.
Broad and generous, this has ample white fruits and attractive, balancing acids. It already has richness and a pure fruit character, with a firm, pear-skin-like structure and acidity on the finish. Age the for 3–4 years.
Broad and obvious in its appeal, with peach marmalade and applesauce tastes and saccharine sweetness. There also seems to be a smoky vanilla streak from some kind of oak. It's a country-style common wine and there's not much going on beyond the fruit.
Broad and pleasing aromas of yellow melon, sliced lemons, white peach and apple make for a chameleon-like nose mixing ripeness with restraint. Honeydew and cantaloupe flavors make for a plush palate, quite delicious although not too flashy.
Broad and rich, it has already developed to give ripe yellow and green fruits that have fully integrated into the fresher, mineral structure. The wine is ready to drink.
Broad and ripe on the nose, with sappy blackberry, plum and youthful aromas. The palate is big, full and tannic, with roasted plum and berry flavors in front of a smoky, hickory-driven finish. Chewy, blowsy and generous for $10 Tempranillo.
Broad and ripe, this comes across heavy on the nose, with fig and chocolate cake aromas. The palate is huge and tannic but also jammy. Fig, baked berry and tobacco flavors finish hot and toasty, like espresso.
Broad and ripe, this is textured with some citric character, its acidity cutting through the green plum flavors. The aftertaste is freshly mouth watering.
Broad and ripe, this wine offers hints of lemon curd, crushed stone and cashew butter. Ripe melon fruit flavors dominate the palate, even suggesting honey at times, while anise notes provide a bit of lift on the finish. Drink now.
Broad and rounded, it is full of sweet fruits and soft tannins while still retaining a good sense of structure. Red fruits come through strongly to give richness. It's for short-term aging.
Broad and sinuous in feel, it sports notes of wool, white apricot and papaya. Bright acidity gives the finish some spark.
Broad and slightly too sweet for its modest acid levels (17 g/l residual sugar; 5.3 g/l TA), this wine does deliver oodles of succulent fruit, ranging from red berries to ripe peaches and citrus.
Broad and toasty, the 2008 Andreas is pure Cabernet Sauvignon from the Wallula Vineyard. Lush plum and cherry fruit is set against generous, toasty new oak. Nuanced highlights of herb, rye seed and even a dash of cayenne peek through on the finish. The wine spent a full year in bottle prior to release, but could certainly age for another decade or more, and is likely to improve significantly.
Broad and warm notes of light butter, baked yellow apples, cracked apricot and sliced nectarine are lifted by lime-peel tension on the fresh nose of this bottling. Preserved lemon and toasted almond flavors show once sipped, framed by a creamy mouthfeel and tartness provided by orange bitters.
Broad aromas of Asian pear, kaffir lime and wet stone show on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard located just minutes from the sands of Pismo Beach. There is a great sizzle of acidity on the sip, with candied apple flavors, slightly sour lime and grapefruit peels. There's also the slightest touch of sweetness.
Broad aromas of black cherry and black-tea spice make for a dark and full nose, which is enhanced by strong soil components of turned loam and gravel. Dark boysenberry and tart plum skins show on the palate along with more tea spice, making for a very full sipping experience.
Broad aromas of cranberry and pomegranate are dusted with dried sage, tea and forest woods in this single-vineyard expression. The sagebrush and woody spice flavors show strongly on the sip, giving depth to the pomegranate and hibiscus notes. Quite dry and tangy, this should age well.
Broad aromas of espresso and dark cherry carry onto the medium- to full-bodied palate, which comes with an edgy texture due in part to the elevated acids.
Broad aromas of grapefruit marmalade, dried tangerine skins and fresh-squeezed lemon juice show on this bottling, which is more fleshy than crisp on the nose. It's racy on the sip with razor-sharp, sizzling acidity, but also nicely rounded in the midpalate, sure to grow richer in the cellar.
Broad aromas of melon, salted lemon and soft white peach benefit from a chalky minerality on the nose of this Viognier and Grenache Blanc blend. There is a great sizzle of acid on the sip as well as a grippy texture, with flavors of lemon zest and apricot sitting atop butter and oak influences.
Broad aromas of nectarine splashed with warm lemon juice mix with cut pear and ripe red apples on this bottling. The palate shows cooked apples, with slight hints of peach, all quite ripe.
Broad aromas of seared lemons, white peach and nectarine are given nuance with a bit of quinine on this entry-level bottling. Stewed lemons and apple-custard flavors show on the plush and pillowy palate, cut with an acidic sizzle.
Broad berry/cherry fruit flavors open up quickly, with lighter accents of compost and leather. This is a smooth, somewhat loose-knit wine, with pretty baking spices decorating the finish.
Broad blueberry, black cherry and vanilla aromas show in this bottling from Steve and Pam Lock's eponymous westside Paso Robles vineyard. The mouthfeel is quite full, showing root beer float flavors, ample acidity and present but well-chiseled tannins.
Broad in the mouth and on the sweet side, this Chardonnay-Pinot Noir blend does offer some attractive gingery notes on the nose, while the flavors favor baked apples.
Broad in the mouth and rather burly, this nearly dry Riesling offers minerally, spice-driven aromas and flavors. A touch of honeyed richness on the palate rounds it out, but this is not a stereotypical fruity Riesling despite the mouthwatering finish.
Broad melon-like and apple-like aromas lead onto the medium-size palate. Soft acids give a malleable texture.
Broad notes of white orchard fruit lead onto the light- to medium-bodied palate, which feels easygoing and pliable.
Broad on the palate and seemingly even a bit warm in alcohol, this lacks the spine and concentration of the Art Series bottling yet still remains a bold, authoritative example of Margaret River Chardonnay. Apple, pear and melon notes all swirl together before finishing in a whirl of smoke. Drink now.
Broad scents of honeydew, candied lemon and orchard fruit mark the nose, with an underpinning of toasted nut. The palate is medium bodied, with balanced acidity and apple flavor.
Broad spice and almond notes evident on the nose of this hearty Brunello are accented by cherry, bright blueberry and cassis. In the mouth, the wine shows enormous elegance and a silky, streamlined feel.
Broad tropical fruit and nut aromas gain more focus on the medium- to full-bodied palate. The wine feels lush and plump, but solid acidity gives it some buoyancy.
Broad, bold and buttery, with aromas of toasted white peach, flower blossom, vanilla and mild oxidation. The blend is 65% Viura with Malvasia and white Garnacha, and overall it's a round, stout, creamy wine with apple, vanilla and toasty, resiny flavors and finishing notes. A little heavy and sticky but nice for barrel-aged white Rioja.
Broad, foresty black-fruit aromas are spicy and lush. Although this Petit Verdot is nice on the nose and tastes good, the mouthfeel is off due to shrill tartaric acidity. Savory and sour plum flavors clash, and it feels raw and grating on the finish.
Broad, open wine with berry fruits, black cherries and a soft texture. The wine has freshness, plenty of acidity, for drinking now.
Broad, ripe berry aromas are dark and full on the nose. The palate is lively, with a shot of bracing acidity. Flavors of dark fruit, grilled meat, herb and salt finish briny, with a final wave of hard tannins. Drink through 2016.
Broad, ripe style, concentrated while retaining lightness of touch. There is a good mineral element balancing the yellow fruits and rich texture.
Broad, sturdy and herbal, this everyday Merlot is a fine choice for simple grilled fare. It's actually a rather interesting blend, with a mix of Cabernet Franc, Lemberger, Syrah and Sangiovese adding to the Merlot base.
Broad, welcoming aromas of strawberry and baked red currant are lifted by mint leaf, star anise and white pepper on the nose. Pure raspberry flavors kick-start the palate, followed by waves of anise, bay leaf and juniper, proving this to be a dynamic and minty sip.
Broad, woody, buttery aromas blend with blackberry, cassis and grapy notes on a full-force bouquet. This Uco Valley Malbec is lush, fruity and chunky in feel, with ripe, spicy, earthy flavors of blackberry and fresh herbs. A long, woody, toasty finish confirms high quality, length and power; drink through 2022.
Broadley offers well-ripened, estate-grown Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at affordable prices. This juicy, concentrated cuvée brings a lively mix of boysenberry, blackberry and black cherry. It was aged for one year in one-year-old French oak. The focus, concentration and sheer pleasure cannot by overstated.
Broadly flavorful when first sipped, this turns aggressively oaky in the mouth. The liquorous barrel flavors will please some tasters, while others will wonder where the fruit went?
Broadly fruity at first, this turns a little loose-knit, like a Grateful Dead jam. It's compelling but not terribly tight; it meanders into leaf and tea, then chocolate, then back to the light and pretty red fruits.
Broadly fruity, a wash of berries and spice. The acids are still a little jarring. The vintage is not as deep as the 2007, and the wine shows a little heat in the finish. This tastes more like a press wine than the '07, but it is nonetheless very well made.
Broadly fruity, this dark and smooth Merlot is loaded with a luscious mix of black fruits. The flavors play out in forward, accessible fashion, flecked with a pleasing minerality.
Broadly fruity, with a palate of mixed red berries and cherries. Light and balanced, this is well-made, of medium length, and ready to drink right away.
Broglio is a vineyard in the Serralunga d'Alba area of the Langhe and this expression of Nebbiolo offers a ruby color with orange highlights, followed by aromas of cola, wild berry, lemon zest and leather. The mouthfeel is drying and firmly tannic.
Broken-down aromas of haystack and sulfur are sketchy. This feels pinched, citric and rubbery, while salty sour flavors fail to suggest any particular fruit. As a whole, not much good is going on with this Chardonnay.
Broken up on the nose, with a nutty, leafy set of over-the-hill aromas. Feels soupy, with hard acids and flavors of tomato, herbs and heavy sweetness. It shows a few good qualities but not enough to rate better.
Brokenwood's entry-level Semillon is always a reliable introduction to the Hunter Valley style. Crisp, zingy citrus fruit and light body make it a fine accompaniment to raw oysters or other shellfish when young.
Brooding and dark, this softly structured wine is juicy and brimming in tension, its acidity focused and supportive. Black cherry, a subtle touch of cinnamon spice and toasted oak find balance and equal more than the sum of their parts, providing for a luxurious experience in the glass.
Brooding and mysterious—giving away just a hint of white pepper, dark plum and floral notes of peony—this richly purple wine gives up more of its secrets on the palate, revealing ripe plum fruit and sweeter spice from oak. Tannins are plentiful, ripe and supple, while lovely pepperiness carries through from start to finish.
Brooding and powerful, this ripe and regionally representative blend of 85% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre shows caramelized blueberry, chocolate sauce, crème brûlée and coffee bean on the nose. It hits the palate with density that masks the fruit at first, and then unleashes waves of fudge, elderberry, blackberry, licorice and jet-black coffee laced with black cassis.
Brooding aromas of barrel spice, black cherry, coffee bean and herb lead to tart, focused fruit and barrel flavors that linger.
Brooding aromas of barrel spice, dried herbs, cranberry and black cherry lead to ripe but in focus pit-fruit flavors that show a pleasing sense of harmony. A squeeze of firm tannins provides the frame.
Brooding aromas of barrel spices, red and black fruit, freshly brewed coffee and pencil lead are followed by an intense full palate. It displays a lot of layers to explore.
Brooding aromas of blackberry seed, black currant and licorice are followed by a full-bodied palate, with a tight core of dark-fruit flavors supported by fine-grained tannins. It's near irresistible, showing impeccable styling.
Brooding aromas of coffee, vanilla and herbs lead to elegantly styled fruit flavors that taper toward the finish.
Brooding aromas of cranberry and mulberry lead to rich fruit and mineral flavors that show exquisite balance and a lengthy finish. It's rare to find a Rocks District wine so fruit filled—a real treat. Best before 2020.
Brooding aromas of crushed rock, mineral, black olive, soot, cracked black pepper, charcuterie and dried herb lead to fresh, focused flavors that are flavorful but remain light on their feet. It shows a bit more tannic heft than this area often shows along with great length on the meaty finish.
Brooding aromas of dates, herbs and cherry lead to full-bodied coffee and pit-fruit flavors that show a sense of balance and finesse.
Brooding aromas of dill, purple fruit, vanilla and wood spice are followed by full dark cherry flavors backed by a wall of firm yet still accessible tannins.
Brooding aromas of dried flowers, vanilla, cocoa, fresh herbs and potting soil lead to cherry flavors, tightly wound tannins and tart acids. It will stand up to the biggest steak.
Brooding aromas of earth, herb, dried leaf, black currant, blue fruit and barrel spice are followed by focused blue and black-fruit flavors. Lightly crunchy tannins back it all up.
Brooding aromas of earth, tobacco, spice and red fruit lead to plentiful savory tobacco and mesquite flavors. It seems a bit dried out.
Brooding aromas of fresh and dried herbs mix with freshly tilled soil, tomato leaf, coffee, mineral and spice box. It's restrained in style with supple smoke, herb and cherry flavors backed by soft tannins.
Brooding aromas of fresh herb, flowers, plum and piercingly pure red fruit lead to an elegant pillowy palate. It shows an impeccable sense of balance along with a lingering finish.
Brooding aromas of herb, dark fruit and spice lead to full bodied cranberry and cherry flavors that bring a lot of oomph. It's a delicious example of the variety.
Brooding aromas of herbs, dark cherries and flowers are followed by supple, polished dark-fruit flavors. It's a promising wine from this young growing region.
Brooding aromas of huckleberry, braised meat, flower and mineral lead to a full-bodied palate, rich with blue and purple fruit flavors that possess a supple seamless feel and a lengthy finish.
Brooding aromas of huckleberry, orange peel and flowers are followed by seamless full-bodied palate-coating blue-fruit flavors. It's far from shy but delivers the goods.
Brooding aromas of incense, cedar, herb and cherry are followed by lithe fruit flavors. It's a deft expression of the variety.
Brooding aromas of lemon curd, fresh herb and citrus lead to broad citrus and herb flavors in this wine. It lacks concentration.
Brooding aromas of moist soil and dark cherry are followed by big bold cherry flavors that coat the palate. The variety's often burly tannins are kept well in check.
Brooding aromas of pomegranate, strawberry and spice lead to tart cranberry and raspberry flavors that display exceptional balance, detail and length, with high-wire acidity.
Brooding aromas of purple fruit, apple and spice are followed by brawny dark fruit flavors. The tannins bring a firm squeeze.
Brooding aromas of spice box, herb, purple fruit and wood spice are followed by medium-bodied cranberry flavors. The tannins bring a sense of astringency, requiring some time in the cellar to (hopefully?) soften.
Brooding aromas of spice, mineral, green herb, cedar, cherry and a minty top note lead to sweet yet elegant black fruit flavors and firm, burly tannins that need time to stretch their legs. Best after 2020.
Brooding aromas of the blackest of fruit, anise and cassis are followed by a velvet hammer of sweet dried-fruit flavors backed by burly tannins. Medicinal and dark-fruit notes persist on the finish. It seems slightly dried out but still delivers the goods.
Brooding aromas of vanilla, mocha and herb lead to a palate full of fresh acids and firm, but not unrelenting tannins. It's an intriguing example of the variety.
Brooding aromas of violets, fresh herbs, potpourri, medicinal notes and dark fruit are followed by full-bodied, rich raspberry flavors. It's not for the dinner table but perfect as a cocktail.
Brooding black cherries, fresh plums and blueberries are dusted with cinnamon spice on this alluring nose. There almost is an overtone of dried orange peel that gives aromatic lift. The palate is fleshy and dense but has a vein of freshness at the core. Fruit and tannins create a smudged, rich body of crushed, fresh fruit with subtle grip. This is lusciously ripe now but will develop beautifully.
Brooding black currant, blackberry pie aromas meet with clove, sweet tobacco, black tea and hot cola on the nose of this blend of 49% Grenache, 27% Syrah and 24% Mourvèdre from the Coastview, Antle and Brosseau vineyards. There is candied Concord grape fruit to the energetic, light-on-its-feet sip, along with bay leaf, sage, marjoram and thyme.
Brooding black raspberry, iron and crushed dried-herb aromas are followed by bright red fruit flavors in this wine. Its purity and texture provide great appeal.
Brooding blackberry, dark plum, dried herb, vanilla and bacon fat aromas are followed by sappy, rich, saturated fruit flavors in this wine. It's a hedonistic rendition of Syrah that holds nothing back.
Brooding dark fruit and luxurious French oak spices intermingle on the aromas. The palate is seamless with pitch-black fruit flavors. Not a shy wine, it's an exhibition of power.
Brooding dark fruit and stemmy herb and olive aromas lead to rich, extracted black fruit flavors with a warm, coffee filled finish. It delivers a powerful punch.
Brooding flavors of dark cherry and pure cocoa initially play on the palate, but it slowly opens up to reveal a deceptive lightness. The body is sleek yet concentrated, with super-soft tannins. With haunting edges of cherries preserved in kirsch and bitter chocolate, this is an intriguing, elegant wine that's lovely now but will also age gracefully through 2019.
Brooding in dark cherry and earthy spice, this fully figured wine offers well-integrated oak. With a savory and powerful profile, it has a forceful grip on the palate accented by black tea, truffle and juicy vibrancy. From a mix of Dijon clones (37 and 777), some fermented whole-cluster, this is a structured, wine from a meticulously farmed coastal site.
Brooding notes of black, crunchy cherry along with wood smoke and fir rise from the glass. On the palate there is a vein of tart, lively freshness that draws earthy smoke and full fruit notes towards the core, leaving shadows of smoke and fir, cherry, blueberry and white pepper around the fringes. Freshness is far more of a defining factor than silky tannins. This is authentic, unforced and very fresh.
Brooding on the nose, this bottling by a newer producer shows crushed herbs, slate, leathery blackberry and blueberry fruit, smoked meats and a touch of minty tobacco. There is great structure on the palate, with fine-grained, chalky tannins presenting blackberry fruit, black-pepper spice, oak smoke and touches of crushed oregano.
Brooding raspberry, tobacco, herb, cedar and barrel spice aromas are followed by ripe cherry flavors in this wine. It's enjoyable but lacks precision.
Brooding smoke, purple fruit and violet aromas are followed by sumptuous fruit and barrel flavors in this Syrah. Barrel notes linger on the finish, feeling a bit raw but not detracting from the overall enjoyment.
Brooding, darkly aromatic fruit plays on the nose. The wild blueberry almost has a floral touch of peony. The palate still contains juicy fruit in a taut, firm structure, while tannins are fine but still crunchy. A bright streak of freshness brightens and guides everything, creating juicness and verve, and giving definition to that lovely, ripe fruit. This wine might take a little time to come out of its shell but is worth waiting for. Drink 2019–2025.
Brooding, very varietal aromas of grass, herbs and citrus lead to broad fruit flavors that dip in the middle, with some reduction providing a bit of distraction. It doesn't quite stand up on its own but should perk up at the dinner table.
Broodingly black cherry with aromatic sprays of pepper accompany notions of dark flower petals with a tarry edge. On the palate a meatiness adds a further layer of flavor. There is alcoholic strength and lots of concentration but this is a young wine which still has to come into its own. Enjoy its ripe elegance as of 2016.
Broquel always offers a little more elegance and pedigree than most value Malbecs, and the 2005 has body, a silky feel and aromas and flavors of tobacco, baked blackberries and leather. It's a ripe, moderately tannic wine that's best for near-term drinking.
Brosseau scored with this bottling last year, and the '06 is as good, showing the same classy elegance. It's drily tannic, but enormously rich in currants, with complexities of smoky leather, tobacco, olive tapenade and tamari-sauteed wild mushrooms. Delicious now, and should develop bottle complexities through 2012.
Brown-pink in color, like a burnt rosé, this wine conveys strong caramel aromas reminiscent of brandy, cognac and bourbon. The palate is thick and treacly with strong flavors of wood and cherry-laced caramel, with a raisiny finish.
Brown butter, white peach and pound cake aromas show on the nose of this easy-to-enjoy bottling. Those notes follow through to the palate, rounded out with vanilla and ripe stonefruit and held together by clean, firm tension and chalky minerality.
Brown calls this wine its Cab lover's Zin, blending 60% Zinfandel with Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. It is a stunner, sultry in juicy red plum, cassis, currant and earthy tobacco. Tannins are soft and leathery, and all the varieties are well represented.
Brown dust, plum jam, red cherry and black tobacco power the nose on this medium-bodied Cab. It's alluring on the palate with dark fruit, mouthwatering spices and a crème brûlée sense to the whole package.
Brown pear, banana and gooey cherimoya aromas show in this blend of 36% Marsanne, 33% Roussanne, 25% Chardonnay and 6% Viognier. A beeswax element comes through on the palate, but the treacly, tropical flavors predominate. A decent acidity keeps it all in check.
Brown spice, dried honeysuckle, Gala-apple skins, a touch of light custard and sea-salt-laden citrus and stone fruit show on the nose of this mouthwatering wine. Once sipped, flavors of butter-poached apples and ripe pears are spiced with more sea salt. A tight, pithy structure holds it all together.
Brown spices of clove and nutmeg decorate the nose of this solid bottling that offers a bit of dried blueberry in the deep background. The palate's presentation is very elegant and mellow, with black plum and blackberry fruit well integrated into graphite minerality and dried sagebrush, leaving a touch of tannins in the mouth.
Brown sugar and brown apple betty figure into this wine's aroma and flavor profile, making for a slightly overdone quality of ripeness. Slightly tropical as it moves along, the finish is robust in size and body.
Brown sugar and buttered toast flavors dominate this wine, but it's not cloying, because it has lots of acidity. The mango, tangerine and peach flavors testify to exceptional ripeness.
Brown sugar and chocolate make for a hedonistic experience in this brawny, powerful wine. It's well-composed in smoky char, juicy blackberry and a full-bodied finish of black pepper.
Brown sugar and cinnamon notes mark the nose of this medium-bodied Pinot Noir. On the palate, it's supple in texture, while the flavors run toward overripe black cherries, with a hint of alfalfa. Clean and crisp on the finish.
Brown sugar and dark treacle flavors dominate this rich, sweet wine. With its opulent texture, this is for sipping. Screwcap.
Brown sugar dots itself around grippy tannin and black fruit, cedar never far behind on the senses. Resolved, firm tannins balance against a brightness of acidity that manifests in a citrus-tinged finish. Drink now through 2023.
Browned butter, cinnamon-like spices and blackberry pie frame this Syrah from an estate vineyard owned of Zaca Mesa, the first winery to plant the grape in Santa Barbara County. There is more brown spice and blackberry on the palate, which is couched in an appealing tannic structure that smooths out as you drink it.
Browned butter, roasted almonds and walnuts, kumquat cream and iodine show on the nose of this oxidative style from Bill Foley's large portfolio. The palate is rich with toasty brioche and peanut-butter notes.
Browned butter, toasted almonds, sea salt and peach blossoms converge for a compelling nose on this twist-top appellation blend. It's a full Chardonnay on the sip, with Meyer lemon peel, Gala apple and savory sea salt, all cut by a racy line of acidity.
Browning and maturing, but still showing a ton of life and kick. This traditional-style wine is mildly roasted on the nose, with touches of leather, latex and other firm aromas. The palate is nice, with dry raspberry and cherry flavors finishing with power and length. Solid and respectable, but not something you'd label as special. Drink now–2014.
Browning in color, with mounds of dry spice, tea and earth aromas, but also a cooked, overoaked quality that doesn't serve the wine well. The palate is plodding and doesn't really evolve, while flavors of brown sugar, obvious oak and roasted berry seem to be fading. Expensive for what's in the bottle.
Brownish orange in color, this shows apricot and mango aromas in front of a lush but balanced palate. Orange, mango and a touch of brown sugar fill out the flavor profile, while a smooth finish avoids stickiness by offering up bracing acidity.
Bruce McGuire makes a strong case for the potential of Petit Verdot—a variety not often bottled on its own—in the Santa Ynez Valley. Baked blackberry, licorice and cocoa scents show on the playful nose, while black cherry, cocoa dust, cardamom and anise flavors light up the palate.
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.
Bruised apple and high-toned apple cider notes on the nose. It's an appley wine with familiar hints of ginger and apple pie spice, but brisk acidity and a supple mouthfeel keeps it from being overtly homespun in style.
Bruised apple and smoke notes penetrate throughout this pert, delicately framed Riesling. Rich honey and peach flavors cast warmth onto its tart, briskly acidic midpalate.
Bruised apple notes precede a friendly, easy, soft, apple-scented wine with a light and dry body. Drink soon while aromas last.
Bruised apple notes scent this dry-style Riesling. The palate exhibits glimpses of fresh apple and pear flavors, but there's a savory, earthy tone throughout. Bristling acidity lingers on the finish.
Bruised apricot, lemonade and citrus rind-laden marzipan notes hit the nose on this wine, which is showing just a touch of nutty, honeyed oxidization. The macadamia nut element arises on the palate too, alongside intriguingly peaty flavors reminiscent of Scotch, with almond liqueur on the outro. It presents decent acidity throughout.
Bruised plum and pluot aromas mix with red rose petals and chipped black slate on the nose of this reliable bottling. The palate shows slightly sour dried cherries, more lush dried blueberries, a bit more tar and a nice twist of tobacco.
Bruised strawberries and ripe red plums are leveled by iron, ginger snaps, crushed slate and soy on the umami-laden nose of this bottling by Winemaker Jonathan Nagy. Intriguing river--stone minerality powers the palate, where black plums and olallieberries meet with black spice and lots of florality.
Bruna Grimaldi and her family present a delicious wine with bright spice and crisp fruit backed by a very distinct note of sweet marzipan. Balsam endnotes of rosemary, ginger and cola give the wine lift and buoyancy on the finish.
Bruna Grimaldi is a boutique winery that shows great promise for the future. The wine's delicate nuances of forest fruit, cola, pressed violets, white chocolate and coffee are what set it apart. In the mouth, this elegant Barolo offers a tight, streamlined feel.
Brunel's 2013 is traditionally styled. The aromas are peppery and ferrous, leaning toward sour plum, while the palate is medium-bodied, taut and silky, ending on notes of black olive and espresso. Drink it over the next 5–8 years.
Brunello Colleoni presents a bright portrait of Sangiovese fruit that is packed tight with layers of forest berry, cherry cola, cassis, raspberry and raw spice. The acidity is present but does not feel as sharp as some of the other wines form this cool vintage.
Brunello Favorito opens with a garnet color, amber hues and shows aromas of leather, tobacco, cured meat, bresaola and cassis. The wine is compact and lean in the mouth with bright acidity, making it a fine pairing for steak with cream and wild mushroom sauce.
Brunello Fossacolle opens with a darkly concentrated color and aromas of tobacco, spice, chocolate and meaty, pulpy black fruit. The wine presents a bigger, inky style and shows good depth and density on the palate thanks to its extracted consistency, creaminess and overall intensity.
Brunello Il Marroneto offers a touch of ripeness in the form of cherry fruit, vanilla cream, cinnamon and caramel. Sharp acidity in the backdrop definitely puts all that soft roundness into perspective. The wine is etched, austere and firmly structured.
Brunello is the perfect winter wine to enjoy by a roaring fire with friends or a romantic partner. This expression from Terralsole is particularly well suited to this happy fate thanks to its silky, soft nature, firm tannins, spice aromas and bursting fruit tones.
Brunello Madonna Nera is a new product (this wine represents consulting enologist Carlo Ferrini's first stab at this particular project) with plush fruit and tobacco backed by brimstone, crushed granite and black pepper. The wine's personality is dark, brawny and rich.
Brunello Mastrojanni is always a highlight among the various wines from Montalcino. Bright and elegant, it shows aromas of cherry, cola, ginger, dried spice, leather and spice. The mouthfeel is lean and tight with crisp acidity and firm, polished tannins.
Brunello Poggio Banale is a soft, succulent expression of Sangiovese Grosso with sweet cherry and smooth vanilla aromas. The mouthfeel is plush, rich and creamy but there's a touch of balanced acidity that brings those lively fruit tones into crystalline focus.
Brunello Poggiotondo opens with a rich, dark appearance and bright aromas of cherry, root beer, humus and chopped mint. It's bright and clean wine in the mouth that ends with a blast of red berry fruit.
Brunello Tenuta Nuova opens with inky dark consistency and immediate aromas of old spice, leather, toasted oak and dried fruit that pop right out of the glass. Dark licorice and espresso add to the overall complexity. There's a touch of sweet spice on the close with ripe, chewy tannins.
Bruno Copéret has produced an impressive wine from this small vineyard on his property. It is still young, full of smoky wood and broad red-fruit flavors. The tannins and the concentration are considerable, although the wine also has a more stylish edge. Drink from 2019.
Bruno Mottet's 2013 purchase of Right Bank Château Seguin now delivers a ripe, smooth and soft wine. There is plenty of fruitiness, citrus, green plum and apple, all integrated into the rich texture and final acidity. Drink now.
Brushy aromas of field herbs blend with scents of oaky vanilla, plastic and stalky berry fruits. This feels saturated and rubbery. A salty flavor profile holds onto the bouquet's stalky character, while the finishing flavors are peppery and herbal, with a hint of sweet plastic derived from oak.
Brushy aromas of wild herbs along with cherry and plum scents feed into a fresh, fairly full palate. This is generously oaked for basic Malbec, and thus spice and resin notes share the stage with plum and blackberry flavors. A dry, spicy, resiny finish is the close.
Brushy sage meets succulent blackberry, blueberry and tar in this impressive wine, which offers generous structure and complex tannin. Though juicy and decidedly enjoyable now, it will benefit from further cellaring; best 2022 through 2032.
Brushy, herbal aromas include saucy notes of cherry tomato and iodine. This mystery blend from a 60-year-old vineyard in Curicó is medium in body, with salty, savory plum flavors. Briny notes and saltiness outmaneuver the wine's fruit content on the finish.
Brut Milledì is an elegant sparkling wine made from Chardonnay. It offers aromas of yellow spring flowers and crisp zesty citrus flavors. This has nice length, and finishes on an almond note.
Brut nature is a bone-dry style of Champagne, dry well beyond ordinary brut, which lends a steely refinement to the usual toast and fruit. This wine is absolutely built for oysters or caviar. Though it’s a rarely seen style of Champagne, this is an excellent effort.
Brut X is an extreme brut, made in a bone-dry style from a blend of 31% Chardonnay and 69% Pinot Noir with no added sugar. It's then aged four years. Floral in honeysuckle, the flavors are sharply focused and salty, a mix of lemon, pear and peach that can be enjoyed before, during and after a meal.
Bryan Babcock's three decades of experience show better than ever right now. This bottling from Radian Vineyard offers aromas of charred cloves, wet slate, peppercorns and macerated raspberries. Lively and energetic on the palate, it bursts with flavors of wild berries and ripe cranberries, with a tart citrusy twist that's a wakeup call to the mouth.
Bryan Babcock heads to Bentrock Vineyard on the southwestern edge of the appellation to deliver this wine redolent of red cherry, plum, mulberry, peppery spice and sagebrush. The palate is rich and full bodied, with tangy red plum skin and eucalyptus touches, finishing on a fresh, menthol-like note.
Bryan Babcock makes plenty of more expensive Pinot Noirs, but this appellation blend hits all the right notes and shows off the results of the “pedestular cane suspension” technique he's been using in the vineyard. Wild thyme, sagebrush and bay leaf meet cranberry and slate aromas on the nose. Black raspberry and cranberry flavors lead the earthy palate, accented with nettle and peppercorn.
Bryan Babcock sources from the Buona Terra Vineyard for this bottling that shows intensely focused aromas of candied pomegranate, cola, anise seed and dew on sweet sagebrush. It's rich and soft on the palate, yet lively with intense herbal energy and grippy tension, all laid across the juice of ripe red berries.
Bual is the grape that creates the medium-sweet style of Madeira, and this wine fits the bill perfectly. It is a great wine, with its honey, its citrus to balance, its dark, nutty flavors, its merest hint of sweetness. To finish, there is a long, ripe caramel taste, balanced with layers of acidity.
Bubble gum and cotton candy aromas come across as slightly confected at the moment, but they should settle down into cherry-berry notes after 6–9 months of cellaring. Like most Tavels, this should be at its best about 18 months after the vintage.
Bubble gum on the nose makes you wonder about carbonic maceration, but that technique wasn't used to make this fruity, simple and generally nice little Cabernet. Don't expect complexity from it, or much varietal character; this is your basic red wine with adequate sweetness and some chocolate.
Bubblegum aromas send this wine in a candied direction. It is soft, not quite dry, with ripe strawberry flavors. It tastes confected although the acidity at the end does keep it fresh.
Bubblegummy and fresh in acidity, this rosé tastes like a young Beaujolais, with strawberry and raspberry fruit. It's an enjoyable wine to wash down little tapas plates of olives, ham, salted nuts.
Bubbly and bright, this has cheerful aromas of citrus, white almond and wild flower. Clean, tonic and refreshing overall, this would make for a great afternoon sipper.
Bucelas is the heart of Arinto in Portugal, used also to make sparkling wines. This lightly oak-aged wine has a smooth, honeyed character, rich white fruits and balanced acidity. It is generous and structured, full of spice and fruit and is likely to age. Drink from 2017.
Bucelas is the home of Arinto and this impressive wood-aged wine from 40-year-old vines brings out the freshness of the grape while adding complexity with toast flavors. It is rich, creamy and smooth, full of green fruits and a layer of citrus. Drink now.
Buena Vista's been trying hard to get this cool-climate, single-vineyard wine right, and they've been succeeding inch by inch in building in layers of complexity. The '05 is rich and ripe in blackberry, pepper and new oak flavors, and is very dry and tannic. It will benefit from 3–4 years in the cellar.
Buena Vista has a good reputation for this bottling, and the great '07 vintage has resulted in another fine Chardonnay, at a good price. Racy in acidity, the wine shows mineral-infused citrus fruit, apple and honeysuckle notes that finish with a touch of off-dry sweetness.
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.
Building on the almost century of Riboli family winemaking, this wine shows honeysuckle, cracked caramel brittle and seared lemons on the approachable, familiar nose. Good tension marks the palate, with lemon butter and ripe Golden Delicious apple warmth cut by a pithy sharpness.
Builds complexity through skillful layering of ripe black cherries, fresh greens (ferns or parsley stems), leather and earth. The mouthfeel is spot-on, rich and plush without seeming heavy. Tart cherry and dusty cocoa notes on the finish and a fine sense of balance make it drinkable now or in several years.
Built a little more sturdily than some NZ Pinots, Rockburn's 2007 shows fine intensity and purity of black cherry flavors, allied to hints of mushroom, earth and cola. It's full-bodied, with a long, supple finish. Drink now–2015.
Built along traditional lines, this claret features soft plummy Merlot fruit accented by leafy tobacco and cassis. Its cedary leanness makes it an ideal foil for rich meat dishes.
Built around 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, this blend also contains 17% Merlot and smaller percentages of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Given a good amount of time in barrel, it expresses char, bacon fat and a luxurious and thickly rich amount of black fruit. Concentrated, it should please a wide array of palates.
Built around a core of acidity, this wine conveys a preponderance of cedar and sage, seemingly influenced by a softer variety like Merlot, of which it has 12%. Plum and black currant provide the fruit component, before a sizably tannic finish.
Built for aging, this tightly wound, elegant and yet grand wine is sure to develop more nuances and smoothness with time. It smells enticingly like cedar, tobacco and dark chocolate-covered blueberries, yet retains a firmness and reserve that doesn't let those melt into richness on the palate quite yet. Store this confidently in a cool place and enjoy it 2020–2025.
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.
Built for immediate enjoyment, this brings a tasty mix of berries and cherries, rounded off with 15 months in one-year-old barrels. The delicious burst of mocha around the fruit is what propels this wine, and invites the second glass as soon as the first is finished.
Built for the cellar, this Cab is impressively deep in ripe currant, cherry, cocoa, milk chocolate and spice flavors. It's quite tannic, with a brittle astringency, and sweet in oak and fruit on the finish. Best after 2008, and for some years after.
Built for the long haul, this full-bodied and very firmly textured wine is impressive to taste now but will drink best after 2023. Beguiling aromas touch on sweet spices, grilled meat, black pepper, blackberries and wood smoke. Concentrated, layered fruit flavors seem to coat the palate and linger on the finish.
Built like a brick house, with ripe, red aromas. This isn't light and elegant in the Italian style; it's mega ripe, with a ton of cherry, spice, kick and chocolate. Medicinal at times, peppery at others, and deep and wild throughout. Drink now through 2017.
Built upon generous, sweet and pretty cherry and cassis fruit, this drinks well now, but could be cellared until 2020. Tannins are ripe and polished, and the natural acidity carries a finishing lick of citrus.
Bulas wines come from vineyards in the heart of the Douro. This tawny, bottled in 2014, is so finely balanced between ripe dried fruits and the flavors of the wood and acidify that come from aging in barrel. It's a sweeter style of tawny, rich with toffee and caramel flavors, just finished by acidity. Drink now.
Bulky and clumsy, with powerful early barnyard aromas that ultimately give way to more refined plum and cherry. While this wine has its virtues, it lacks elegance. And while we admit that it's a country wine that's probably meant to be a sizable, rustic quaff, it seems a bit too basic and borderline to garner a better review.
Bulky and dark up front, with coconut, ripe berry and heat on the nose. Feels rich and resiny, with sticky tannins, extract galore and flavors of coconut, wood grain, black licorice and sweet blackberry. Finishes hefty and grabby, with wayward oak that needs to settle in.
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.
Bulky aromas are floral but also suggest lanolin. Malic acidity with a resiny offset is the palate feel, while grainy, pushy oak sits on top of pineapple and apple flavors that dry out on the finish.
Bulky, chunky lemony aromas come with a touch of green hay, or is it alfalfa? The mouth is entirely grapefruit and orange, making it citrus all the way. A stony, gravelly quality to the finish could be interpreted as mineral. The weight is on the heavy side, which costs the wine some style points.
Bulky, stewy, jammy aromas of prune and raisin are an accurate indication of what's to come. This is pure prune juice, with mushy weight and sweet, syrupy flavors. Fig, raisin and chocolate flavors pop up on the finish, but overall this is soupy and drastically overripe.
Bunan's 18th-century castle is called Belle Raisin—Bélouvé in the old Provençal dialect (beautiful grapes in English). With a range of varieties in the blend, it is an attractively integrated wine that has red cherry, raspberry and crisp apple flavors. It is lively and full of ripe fruits, with just a touch of pepper at the end.
Bundled, firm notes of green pear convince right from the start. The exuberant but crisp fruit comes on a taut but dense palate that also fizzes with peppery, herbal savor. This crisp, slender wine echoes long.
Buoyant and blossomy, this semidry Riesling bursts of fresh apple and grapefruit flavors and a distinctly floral perfume. A tart lime edge frames a brisk, clean finish. Drink now to appreciate its freshness and aroma.
Buoyant aromas like apricot and white peach lead to rich, sweet, appealing flavors like pistachio and peach and a smooth, mouth-filling texture. It will make a great pre-dinner wine for people who don't drink dry, and also a good pairing with cheese.
Buoyant aromas of boysenberry juice, white pepper and a touch of rosemary show on the nose of this blend of 34% Merlot, 33% Tempranillo and 33% Syrah, whose name means “my steps” and is an homage to the parents of winemaker Edgar Torres. Sticky tannins frame a medium-weight body full of sage, bay leaf and peppercorn flavors, which decorate the elderberry fruit. This is still a very young wine.
Buoyant berry notes jump out of the glass in a very direct and vertical manner. You'll recognize aromas of black cherry, red apple and cassis berry. But there's also a slight notes of nut or spice at the back followed by soft, sweet fruit flavors.
Buoyant cola and root beer aromas frame solid aromas of almond paste and wild berry. This Brunello shows a smooth, rich mouthfeel with tight, compact tannins on the close.
Buoyant floral perfume contrasts a slightly restrained palate that's more mineral than fruit. Off dry in style with delicate tones of honey and caramel, it finishes brisk and clean.
Buoyant primary aromas of sunny peach and tangerine are juxtaposed against deep reverberating slate and flint in this gorgeously balanced Kabinett. It's lusciously textured but spine-tingling with acidity. The finish is long, lingering on warm spice tones. Drink now through 2020.
Buoyantly aromatic with notes of fresh wildflowers, preserved apricots and honey, this dry Riesling made from a tiny single-vineyard crop balances elegant crushed stone and stonefruit flavors with a focused acidity and stark orange peel astringency. Balanced and elegantly structured, it finishes on a long, meandering orange inflected note.
Buoyantly aromatic, this blossomy Traminette sparkling wine stands out in a line up of traditional Champagne-style sparklers. Heady rose and gardenia tones feel perfumey on the palate, but brisk acidity and soft, pillowy foam are pleasant.
Buoyantly fragrant, this voluptuous Chardonnay bursts of mango, guava and berry aromas. The palate is a bit more subdued, suggesting fresh apple and pear. Fruity, fresh and uncomplicated, it's balanced neatly by a flash of acidity on the midpalate. Drink now through 2019.
Buoyantly perfumed of blossoms and sun-kissed peaches, this light-footed Muscat is chock full of aplomb. Valvin Muscat's heady aromatics may be overwhelming to some, but they're true to type here. Enjoy now for its youth and vitality.
Buoyantly tropical, this fragrant Riesling and Müller-Thurgau blend bursts from the glass with sweet, succulent mango, pineapple and melon flavors. Off dry in style, it's concentrated and juicy yet elegantly structured. The finish is full of kick and liveliness. Drink now through 2017.
Burdese is Sicily's tip-of-the-hat to the great wines of Bordeaux. A blended red, the wine is elegant and firm, with dark concentration and earthy tones of leather and spice behind fresh berry and blackberry. Balance and length characterize the mouthfeel.
Burgáns is usually one of the better value-priced Albariños on the market, and this 2014 keeps that momentum going. White-flower and stone-fruit aromas are a touch dusty, while the palate feels peachy. Stone-fruit flavors are familiar, while the finish is zesty and clean.
Burgundian in every way, this deceptively light (in color, alcohol and impact) wine rewards your attention with its finesse and complexity. Rhubarb, pomegranate, peppermint, earth and savory herbs are all highlights, and the length is equally impressive. It's low in alcohol, but high in aging potential.
Burgundian in its earthy, feral aromas, yet simultaneously jammy in flavor, this boasts gamy undertones and a soft texture. The producer recommends decanting an hour minimum before serving, and this will most likely help to blow off the wine's rustically wild side.
Burgundian technique was used in this wine, and the aromas and tastes of those techniques dominate. The wine is heavy in leesy, yeasty, toasted oak notes, which dominate, rather than subtlely support, the underlying fruit.
Burgundy- and California-based Boisset's Rhône outpost has turned out an excellent value in this medium-bodied, firmly structured 2012. Black cherry and leather notes predominate, but pick up welcome hints of espresso, black olive and clove. Drink now–2017.
Burgundy-raised vintner Christian Roguenant gets to show his stuff in this line of Firepeak wines. Wet cement, honeysuckle, crisp Asian pear and the slightest hints of tropicality show on the nose, while the palate offers yellow grapefruit, lemon skins, squeezed lime and lime-blossom flavors, wrapped around nervy tension.
Burgundy producer Aegerter has come up with a bright and breezy Provence rosé whose style sums up the lighter side of these wines. It is fruity, fresh, very clean and crisp.
Burly and brawny in tar and leather, this muscular wine is showy and yet totally delicious. It's worthwhile and hard to resist in its full embrace of smoky oak, black-cherry liqueur and blackberry jam. Soft and succulent, it finishes as robust as it started—a good poster child for the oft-maligned variety.
Burly and powerful, this is an explosively complex and satisfying wine, full bodied and brooding in black cherry and tobacco, its tannins mild and lengthy.
Burly in black fruit, leather and cigar, this is a smoky, full-bodied and powerful wine, richly textured in toasted oak and supple tannin. Blackberry and black currant play off each other to provide a juicy core of consistency. Drink now through 2020.
Burly in shape, with broad shoulders, ample alcohol and densely packed mineral flavors. Flashes of honey and gingery spice lighten the scene somewhat, but this slightly oily Riesling is darker and more brooding than most. The lingering finish is nearly dry.
Burly oak and tannin surround black and blue fruit sourced from a vineyard atop a knoll in the cool Green Valley. Earth and herb come into play midpalate, providing a savory underbelly beneath the power. This wine needs time; cellar through 2023.
Burly tar and campfire aromas pick up floral lift from lavender on this Syrah-dominant, relatively high-alcohol blend. Grilled meats, creosote and asphalt flavors power the slightly rough-edged palate.
Burned tire rubber, oak, espresso and roasted coffee bean lead the nose on this extracted wine. The dense, monolithic palate offers sweet vanilla, toasted oak, chocolate, stewed prunes marinated in spirits, and overripe, sugary plum. It's already evolved and lacks energy.
Burned wood aromas reveal the smoky nature of this wine. Wood aging and a bitter chocolate character dominate. There is a question as to whether it can soften. Wait until 2017 at least.
Burning hot in alcohol, this Zin is totally dry. It has peppery flavors of shriveled grapes and currants, with a bitter mouthfeel.
Burnished orange in tint, this sweet Moscatel feels round and a bit oily, with good acidity lending balance. Flavors of honey, orange and cinnamon end with more orange action and a hint of apricot.
Burnt-field aromas are acrid and not that fruity. The wine is better on the palate, where it's spritzy and jumpy, with standard soda cracker and generic citrus and banana flavors. Scratchy on the finish but reasonably flavorful and legit.
Burnt and gritty smelling, with rubbery, meaty berry aromas that turn candied and herbal with airing. This feels hollow, with roasted, stalky flavors and buttery young oak. It's grabby on the finish.
Burnt and herbal plum and berry aromas are just good enough. This feels clampy due to hard tannins. Medicinal plum and cherry flavors come with a forced-oak element, while this is dry and tannic on a hollow finish.
Burnt and leafy on the nose, with murky, earthy aromas. Feels gritty but lively, with sweet, herbal berry fruit in front of a somewhat dilute and dull finish. A modest, herbal Cab that does the job.
Burnt and leathery smelling, with aromas of earth, rubber and baked fruit. It feels rough and grabby, with dry spice, cinnamon and roasted berry flavors. The finish is abrasive, with some warmth.
Burnt brown sugar, caramel sauce, baked plum, fig and milk chocolate abound on the nose of this rich, decadent selection. Well balanced and incredibly easy to like, lush dark-fruit flavors lead the medium-weight palate, while notes of milk chocolate and baking spice linger on the close.
Burnt caramel aromas give a wine that has weight, sweetness and packs in the vanilla. It misses out on real fruitiness, giving weight rather than freshness.
Burnt caramel, vanilla and herbaceous dill notes lend an oaky feel to the dainty red-plum and violet flavors. The tannins are finely grained but persistent, extending the long, sour-cherry-flavored finish.
Burnt coffee, vanilla bean, green wood and tobacco aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit and barrel flavors in this wine. It's enjoyable despite the intense oak influence.
Burnt hay, grapefruit and waxy apple aromas lead to a palate with briny citrus flavors. Pithy grapefruit and orange flavors carry the finish, which is quick and light in weight.
Burnt matchstick and cardboard comes across at first but gives way to attractive aromas of peach and citrus. The wine is lean and tonic on the palate but that disturbing matchstick note appears once again on the finish. That said: it's not everyday that you taste a sparkling wine made from Nerello Mascalese on Sicily's Mount Etna—so hat's off to Murgo.
Burnt oak, tire rubber and bramble vie with blackberry and vanilla aromas. The palate is brambly and a little lean, with strawberry and raspberry flavors taking on some grassy wildness. Simply stated, the fruit flavors just aren't of the highest order. Otherwise, it's good enough.
Burnt popcorn and some ammonia make the nose fairly harsh. Time softens it a bit as it yields to green-fruit flavors. Finishes dry as a soda cracker, with some Old World touches. Not an easy wine to enjoy; it's very lean and underdeveloped.
Burnt rubber and a certain stemmy, roasted character is draped over the nose and palate. It has a decent, normal feel to it but the flavors of strawberry and raspberry are herbal and burnt. Tastes and smells rubbery and not fully clean.
Burnt rubber, roasted generic berry and rooty tobacco aromas define the nose, which sets up a tangy, sharp, angular palate that shows little more than tart, quick cherry and raspberry flavors. Short and light on the finish.
Burnt slightly acrid aromas lead to a grabby palate. This tastes more salty than fruity, while a note of spent lees creates a wheaty flavor. A low fruit quotient is contiguous from nose to palate to finish.
Burnt smelling at first, and tart throughout, with pie cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors. There's not much to measure here; the wine runs sour and tastes mostly of red fruit skins and citric acid. 65% Tempranillo and 35% Garnacha.
Burnt smelling like charred steak, this also offers raw oak scents along with boysenberry aromas. A dense, pounding, tannic palate holds blackened, peppery flavors of blackberry. A smoky finish smolders with peppery spice and hard tannins.
Burnt tea, forest floor and crushed leaf aromas ride atop dense layers of turned earth and stemmy rose scents in this intriguing wine from a beloved site. Moderate acidity keeps it fresh, highlighting its succulent black cherry fruit with lavender and Asian spice notes that emerge on the finish.
Burnt toast aromas show the youth of this wine. Their tannins dominate, giving a bitter chocolate and coffee character. The fruit is still lost here and needs 3–4 years to come out. An impressive wine for the future.
Burnt toast, hickory smoke, barrel char and baking-spice aromas are woody and a bit cheesy. This is an intense old-vines wine with a deep palate and bulky tannins. Flavors of charred oak, savory spices and black fruits end with lushness, toasty notes, black-pepper spice and heady weight. Drink through 2024.
Burnt toast, mineral, raw char, pencil lead, tobacco and blackberry aromas make for a highly complex and powerful nose. Following on that theme, this is packed and intense on the palate, with smoky black fruit and licorice flavors that finish oaky, toasty and blackened. This is the epitome of a modern Rioja thrill ride. It will take its passengers now through 2035; 200 cases made.
Burnt, acrid, sweaty aromas are less than appealing. This tastes weedy and bitter, while the finish is sour, stalky and underripe.
Burnt, edgy and stemmy/stalky from start to finish. The nose gives off a charred nut and asphalt character, while the palate is edgy, hard and bitter, with briary flavors of roasted fruit and stems. Questionable and compromised for the price.
Burnt, smoky char displays prominently on the nose of this wine, which is mouth-puckering with blackberry, current and pencil shaving flavors and finishes on bay leaf and sage.
Burnt, stalky, toasted aromas dominate this inexpensive Garnacha, and there's not much freshness to the nose as a result. In the mouth, it's more of the same; things are heavy, with fully oaked flavors of medicinal berry, hickory and barbecued meat.
Bursting at the seams with ripe, juicy flavors of blackberries, cherries, currants and anise, this Cab has a rich overlay of smoky oak. It's a little on the soft, heavy side. Drink soon.
Bursting fruit with layers of cherry, blueberry and forest berry, this wine is nicely framed by light tones of spice and roasted nut. This wine has all of its elements in place and offers food-friendly qualities such as refreshing acidity and a cleansing finish.
Bursting of sweet yellow cherries, tangerines and peaches, this fragrant, finely filigreed spätlese screams classic Mosel. Searing lemon-lime acidity counters lush, sunny fruit flavors, finishing with a crystalline haze of honey and nectar. It's stunning now, but has plenty of stuffing to carry through 2025 with aplomb.
Bursting with bold, fully ripe fruit notes of pear and peach, followed up with tropical notes, this is a lush fruit bomb of a Chardonnay to drink over the near term (3–4 months).
Bursting with boysenberry and olallieberry, this wine by Steve Martell gains complexity with aromas of slate, asphalt and dark chocolate. A sizzle of acidity entertains the tongue, along with dark flavors of dried berries, black peppercorns and purple flowers. A tart plum-skin element leads the finish.
Bursting with citrus and savory aromas, this wine is an extrovert that layers spicy, herbal notes on top of ripe and delicious melon and citrus flavors. It has the at-first almost pungent aroma of oak-aged Sauvignon, and slowly reveals more interesting layers of fruit and spice with each sip.
Bursting with Conference pear flavor, this supple, fun and crisp all-rounder should be drunk as soon as possible to make most of the primary fruit.
Bursting with floral aromas, this loads the palate with flavors of rose petals, lychee, grapefruit and spice. Finishing dry, it has outstanding concentration, tension and length.
Bursting with fresh, bright scents and flavors of strawberries, raspberries and huckleberries, this juicy, polished and powerful wine is spring in a bottle. Lush and lively acids underscore the fruit and lead into a long, spicy finish.
Bursting with fruity aromas of peaches, peach ring candies and orange blossom, this is a fresh wine. Juicy mango and more peach unfold on the palate. The feel is thin and isn't able to compete with the intense flavors and aromas, while the finish is tart and saccharine.
Bursting with pineapple and passion fruit aromas, but the wine seems a little hard and ungenerous on the palate.
Bursting with ripe apple scents and flavors, this is dry and ready to enjoy. Fermented in a mix of neutral barrel and stainless steel, it starts off sharp and assertive but mellows into pleasing roundness on the midpalate. Drink now and over the next year or two while it's at its freshest.
Bursting with ripe, juicy peaches, this intensely fruit-forward white Merlot is surprisingly dry and dainty on the palate. It's straightforward and approachable in style, with just a hint of stony minerality on the finish.
Bursting with sweet cherry fruit scents and flavors, this rich and sensuous Cab has the broad palate appeal of many Washington Merlots. Tannins are medium-grained; and the persistent finish is toasty with a trail of mocha.
Bursting with sweet toast from the barrel aging, this offers ripe and pretty berry fruit, deep and long, with highlights of oolong tea. The alcohol is not intrusive, and the acidity keeps it buoyed and lively.
Bursting with zesty tangerine peel aromas and a gentle clover honey sweetness, the Mád Cuvée Late Harvest reflects a lighter style of Tokaji, but with a freshness and delicacy that's ethereal.
Bursts of pink grapefruit and peach brighten this light-footed semidry Riesling. It's mouthwatering and juicy, intensified by streaks of lemon-lime acidity that extend a lingering finish.
Bursts of tropical citrus, mango and melon abound from nose to finish in this forward,fruity off-dry Riesling. Its uncomplicated fruitiness is a bit reminiscent of mixed-fruit cocktail, but it's juicy and approachable for a wide audience. Drink now through 2018.
Bursts of yellow apple and grapefruit flavor are juicy and fresh in this easy-sipping Kabinett. Just a touch sweet and briskly composed, it's a pertly balanced wine for everyday enjoyment.
Bursts with bright, linear cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors, but it's not caustic, sharp or grating. Acidity at peak power yields a zesty, racy personality while a blanket of vanilla flavor softens the cherry and raspberry fruit. Crisp and a good food wine.
Bussia is among the best-regarded crus of Barolo and Sergio Barale's interpretation is definitely on the ripe side. You'll get aromas of mature strawberry and blackberry preserves backed by spice, licorice and anise. The overall effect is thick and chunky and the wine ends with firm astringency.
Butter and coconut aromas announce the liberal use of oak, which the palate echoes with its round, resiny feel and flavors of vanilla, wood and baked pear. This is soft, flat and sugary tasting, with an oaky finish.
Butter and dill are the first aromas to make themselves noticed, and below that there's raw oak and lighter-weight fruit notes. The palate shows ample resin and wood notes along with pepper and spice. It's a good wine with serious intent, but it seems a little overwooded and a tiny bit green. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the blend, with Merlot and Cab Franc filling it out.
Butter and honey make for a rich, hedonistic tone to this mildly structured white. A soft, malleable texture provides creaminess without complexity.
Butter and petroleum mix on the nose before an extreme splash of tartness overwhelms the tongue. Pineapple and peach vie for attention amidst a fuller-styled body and abbreviated finish.
Butter and toast flavors give this wine extra richness and some weight. At the same time, the textured citrus and grapefruit flavors combine with the wine's minerality to give a more lively aftertaste.
Butter, hazelnut and marzipan aromas give a lush first impression, and then vibrant lemon and green-apple acidity provides a firm, balancing effect. This bright-gold, full-bodied wine is concentrated, layered and deep, without being too rich or heavy. Subtle nuances of nutmeg and ginger add to its complexity on the finish.
Butter, pain grillé and roasted nut aromas expand on the palate into honey, peach and tangerine flavors, accented by citrus and mineral notes. Spicy (white peppery) on the finish.
Butter, pear and baking spice aromas are followed by a rounded palate with sweet fruit flavors. Pair it with baked chicken.
Butter, salt, pear and fresh-squeezed orange comprise the leading aromas. Bright orange flavors persist on the palate, as do green apple, hints of papaya and the near-chalky sensation of white rock.
Butter, sea salt, hard caramel candy, pan-seared white peach and poached apple aromas show on the nose on this wine by veteran Bryan Babcock. Once sipped, the wine tightens around a citrus pith, showing yogurt, iodine and lots of acidic energy, as well as more seared pome fruit on the finish.
Butter, toffee, oak and sawdust aromas make up the bouquet. In the mouth, white-grape tannins are firm and grabby. Flavors of citrus, pineapple, melon, banana and oak are tropical and end soft, with buttery weight. Drink now.
Butter, vanilla and barrel spices are at the fore, with tropical fruit working to get to the surface. It's creamy in feel, with seemingly plenty of malolactic influence. There's enjoyment to be had but it comes off as a bit clumsy.
Buttercream aromas show shyly on the nose of this bottling, coating the pear flesh and fresh lime scents. It's somewhat flat on the palate, with ripe Pink Lady apple and melon flavors.
Buttercream, sea salt, caramel and lemon candy aromas show on the nose of this solid bottling. The flavors are full but not overly ripe, with yellow apple, poached pear, white peach and a sea salt character that keeps it mouthwatering.
Buttercream, sweet butter, marmalade, baking spice, brown sugar and sea salt converge on the nose of this bottling, named after the Foley family's Texas ranches. Sea salt, vanilla, lemon peel and frozen-butter flavors show on the sip, which is fatter in the midpalate but cut by the savory saltiness.
Buttercup and fresh pear aromas are friendly and inviting. It feels full and correct, with good acids and minerality. Flavors of pears, melons and lees are very nice, while the finish is simultaneously flowery, crisp and salinic.
Buttercup and tropical fruit aromas are related to the 80% Torrontés in this blend (Viognier and Chardonnay are 10% each). This is plump but also high in acidity. Salty flavors of tropical fruits and pink grapefruit are retained on the finish.
Buttercup and white-flower aromas are true to Viognier. This feels a bit thick and viscous, while ripe melony flavors come with powdered sugar and pastry notes. This is plump, easygoing and tastes tropical and sweet on the finish.
Buttercup aromas are peachy and yeasty. Although the wine offers adequate freshness, it is starting to lose clarity. Flavors of dull peach finish nutty and slightly oxidized.
Buttercup aromas give a sense that this wine is right on the edge. And it probably is; it's an '06 with ripe, soft, melony flavors and lots of pineapple and mango on the finish. Big and fruity now, but it's not going to last much longer.
Buttercup, apple and pear aromas are fragrant and floral. The palate on this Chardonnay is chunky and pulpy, while flavors of pineapple, melon, citrus and mango finish with subdued honey notes.
Buttered baguette, apricot, chestnut honey and yellow rose describe the fragrant nose of this luminous sparkling wine from northern Italy. It boasts well-integrated acidity and lively freshness on the close.
Buttered berries, bitter rhubarb, bergamot, wet sage and pencil lead comprise another fascinating nose from Bryan Babcok's twist on the Radian Vineyard. The mouthfeel is lush and the flavors quite complicated, with black licorice, cinnamon-laced tea, fennel bulb and underripe blackberries. Boasting a nice tannic structure, this is drinking great right now, but hold off till 2020 for supreme sipping.
Buttered black cherries and olallieberries mix with snapped dark chocolate and crushed peppercorns on the nose of this blend of 62% Syrah, 14% Grenache, 12% Zinfandel, 4% Touriga Nacional, 4% Tinta Cao, 2% Bastardo and 2% Alicante Bouschet. The palate shows lots of brick and earth, with sagebrush, licorice and pomegranate-hibiscus flavors.
Buttered cherries and grippy cranberry skins mix with a bit of barnyard funk and some sanguine elements on the nose of this clonal study. The palate shows pomegranate, anise seed, black slate, oregano and thyme, though clings mostly to the ripe raspberry and black currant fruit backbone.
Buttered nuts, lime spritz, green apple, fragrant honeydew and a shred of pineapple treat the nose on this bottling from a steadily rising appellation. The palate shows lots of pep, blending both light crème fraîche with lemon and lime peels, quite focused though not terribly complex.
Buttered sourdough toast and a slight nuttiness kick off another excellent Chardonnay from the ever-reliable Talley. The palate is greeted with minerality that fades into an apple butter flavor alongside a pinch of cinnamon, culminating in a graceful vanilla finish.
Buttered toast and baked bread aromas announce that this is a well-oaked SB. Apple, melon and lemon flavors all get support from powerful oak, while the finish is spicy, toasty, warm and full. This is a flavorful, full-bodied wine, but it is on the opposite end of the spectrum from lean.
Buttered toast and butterscotch flavors rule in this Chardonnay. The grapes bring ripe, pure flavors of mangoes, pineapples and tangerines. It's delicious, if a bit obvious in its appeals.
Buttered toast and caramel corn dominate this Chardonnay, which also features ripe pineapple and golden mango flavors. It's made in the popular style of ripe, oaky fruitiness.
Buttered toast and vanilla flavors are accompanied by pear, mango and Meyer lemon fruitiness in this Chardonnay. It's crisp with acidity but rich and satisfying.
Buttered toast and vanilla scents lead the way, buttressed by peach and citrus. It's medium-weight and smooth in the mouth, with a long finish that boasts echoes of orange and lemon.
Buttered toast, apricot, sour cream, Key-lime frosting and mandarin rinds show on the nose of this wine by veteran Chuck Carlson. Citrusy sourness starts the palate before strong chalk and slate notes arise, settling onto tones of seared lime, lemon rind, peach skin and apple. It packs lively energy.
Buttered toast, brown sugar, honey and orange jam mark this Chard's flavors. It has good acidity for balance. Drink up with umami-rich, salty foods, like ham and sausages.
Buttered toast, buttered popcorn, orange marmalade and lemon zest flavors characterize this lush, creamy Chardonnay.
Buttered toast, caramel and vanilla flavors dominate this Chardonnay. It's brisk in acidity, with mango, Meyer lemon, lime and apricot flavors, wrapped into a creamy texture.
Buttered toast, caramel, vanilla bean, spice and pineapple and orange jam aromas and flavors mark this wine. It's a little sweet and white sugary on the finish.
Buttered toast, honeysuckle and vanilla flavors dominate. The underlying fruit flavors suggest mangoes, pears and limes. Drink this oaky wine now.
Buttered toast, oaky smoke and a slight mango tropicality converge for an epic nose on this Chardonnay from a vineyard that was planted in 1976. There are layers of flavor too, lime citrus at first evolving toward brioche with a butterscotch finish, and some salt and cracked pepper throughout.
Buttered toast, orange jam, vanilla, honey and yeasty flavors swirl together to make this easy-drinking Chardonnay. It has good acidity countering a lushness in the finish.
Buttered toast, popcorn and butterscotch flavors mark this Chardonnay. The underlying wine struggles to come through, but shows good acidity and tropical fruit, lime and orange flavors.
Buttered toast, vanilla cream, honey and jammy pineapple, lime and mango flavors give this Chardonnay incredible richness. Monterey acidity balances the palate briskly. Not particularly subtle, but a big, enjoyable wine.
Buttered toast, yeast and a hint of nut wrap around warm fruit aromas. A creamy blend of peach and citrus brighten this viscous, full-bodied wine that closes with a clean flinty zip. It is this acidity that well pairs the wine to any summertime fare.
Butterflies dance across the label of this Niven Family wine from their Paragon Vineyard, but it packs a flavorful punch too. Aromas of lime juice drizzled on apples, honeysuckle and a bit of struck match lead into broad flavors of cooked apples and chalk, all held together by lemony zest. It's pretty on the label and in the glass.
Butterscotch and candle wax aromas signal a wine in the early stages of decline. In addition, this shows dusty apple and mild citrus scents. The palate is being kept upright by citrusy acidity, while flavors of nectarine and citrus end with bready, aged notes. Drink immediately or wait for the 2012.
Butterscotch and pineapple and peach jam flavors mark this Chardonnay. Fortunately, it's balanced with crisp acidity and a certain minerality. It's an obvious crowd pleaser, and would score higher except for the seemingly sweet finish.
Butterscotch and roasted corn-on-the-cob aromas are followed by an off-dry, viscous, creamy feeling palate. Vanilla notes persist on the finish.
Butterscotch aromas, buttery, nutty flavors and full body make a pretty big impact as this dry and full-bodied wine pulls them all together.
Butterscotch, butter, honey and roasted-peanut aromas lead to similar boisterous flavors in this extremely rich and full-bodied wine from Rhône-style winemaker Bill Easton. It's so ripe and luxurious that it almost tastes sweet. Aged cheese should make a great pairing.
Butterscotch, honey and spice aromas lead this white from Porto Carras. The wine has a slightly heavy feel with vanilla and spice overtones leasing. Overall though, a pretty wine with a serious character.
Butterscotch, lemon peel and a faint flinty quality show on the nose of this bottling from the Chalone team. Tangy mandarin flavors meet almond butter, honeysuckle and gunmetal touches on the palate.
Butterscotch, tangerine and honeysuckle show on the nose of this bottling. There is a bit of textural tension to the sip, with buttery hazelnut and seared apple flavors. Familiar if simple.
Butterscotch, vanilla, spiced apple and wood-grain aromas make up an intriguing bouquet. This has lemony acidity and weight to go with leesy lime and apple flavors that turn cidery on the finish.
Buttery-crusted cranberry pie aromas meet with smoked meats, pencil lead and beef jerky on the nose of this private-label wine by longtime producer Stephen Felten, who has more than 40 years of winemaking experience. The palate shows brown flavors, from dried oregano and marjoram to coffee beans and mocha, with a bit of smoked red-cherry fruit.
Buttery and aromatic, this is a broad and ripe wine. It has attractive acidity as well, giving freshness and a sense of structure. It's rich, rounded and ready to drink.
Buttery and creamy, with tiers of tangerine and tropical fruit flavors that turn honeyed on the finish. Despite the richness, there's elegance and balance throughout.
Buttery and nutty notes are the lead aromas. The palate offers a succulent white-apricot note, and the acids become charged toward the finish.
Buttery and richly oaked, with some apple and pear flavors underneath, this wine is okay—if you're okay with oaky wines. Finishes with a torrent of vanilla flavors.
Buttery and smooth, this shows toasty apple and melon fruit, butter and some framing skin phenolics. It's another excellent example of the superlative Chardonnays being made in the Willamette Valley.
Buttery aromas and buttery, spicy flavors lend an outgoing personality to this medium-bodied wine. Vanilla and cream flavors add some interest, while the texture is broad and smooth.
Buttery aromas, ripe fruit flavors, a soft, plush texture and a seemingly sweet finish characterize this medium-bodied wine. It tastes like golden delicious apples, lemon cream and vanilla.
Buttery boysenberry pie, crushed vanilla and fresh blueberries converge on the nose of this bargain bottling. Soft tannins frame flavors of black currant and dark roast coffee with touches of tobacco and a caramelized finish.
Buttery cream is on the nose of this vineyard-designate, a relatively affordable offering from an esteemed producer in the heart of the Napa Valley. Oaky on the palate, the medium-weighted wine is nicely offset by a searingly crisp bite of lemon that peaks on the finish.
Buttery notes of vanilla, almond nut, banana, mature peach and melon characterize this creamy Grillo from Sicily. The wine is dense and full on the palate and has the natural heft to stand up to pasta or shellfish.
Buttery oak aromas cover up any white-fruit character this Mallorcan white might have in store. Resiny, corny, overly oaky flavors finish like a bowl of buttered movie popcorn.
Buttery peach crumble and vanilla bean flavors are balanced by floral aromas and a rounded, likable character in this bold, full-bodied white.
Buttery spice and fresh citrus aromas lead this likeable white. Sea salt, graphite and ripe oranges on the palate offer crisp yet rounded flavors. A spicy finish seals the deal. Pair with fresh fish, fruit.
Buttery vanilla and baked cherry aromas make for a pretty and plump entry to this bottling from a vineyard in the heart of the appellation. Approachable plum and cherry flavors meet baking spice on the palate, the texture soft and acidity ample.
Buttery vanilla, cherry and plum notes give this wine a plush backdrop of fruit and rich, round texture. With small percentages of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, it reveals additional cedar and graphite components before unleashing a lasting chocolate flavor on the finish.
Buttery warmth shows on the nose of this wine by vintner Travis Proctor, alongside poached pear fruit and an iodine edge. Featuring original artwork by James Caprell on the label, the wine offers pan-seared golden apples, tart pear skin and more of the iodine edge once sipped.
Buttery, caramelized oak tones dominate the weak fruit flavors of orange and apricot. A simple and creamy Chardonnay.
Buy this for its balance and welcome sense of restraint that gives way to richness on the finish. Crisp apple and light citrus aromas, then nicely concentrated and similar flavors, put an attractive spin on this medium-bodied, fresh and appealing wine.
By “Old Vine Cabernet” the winery refers to vines that were planted in 1973. But somehow the fruit doesn't express old-vine character. Instead, it's a mix of sweet-tasting strawberry and bitter stem flavors that lack focus, with a peppery highlight.
By “soft” the winery means sweet. This is a low-acid style, showing flavors of pear, melon and mango. It's a good sipping wine, but perhaps a bit too soft for most foods. —P.G.
By all accounts, 2008 was a tough vintage with cool weather, stunting frosts and ripeness issues. This wine seems afflicted: its opening is good, with coconut and floral shadings. But the palate is limited in richness and the flavors are standard, with char and barrel notes creating bitterness. Nice and honest for a subpar year.
By Belasco de Baquedano, this is a chunky, low-acid Malbec with mint, raisin and slightly damp, earthy undertones. The palate is weighty almost to the point of syrupy, while the flavors are of cola and sweet berries. Soft and slightly herbal, but good in a no-fuss sort of way.
By calling it Fumé, instead of Sauvignon, Blanc, the winery telegraphs that the wine was aged in barrels. The wood has given a subtle, rich texture of smoky cream, while the yeast adds doughy notes to the citrus, fig and spice flavors.
By contrast with some of the other powerful reds from Triguedina, this is a relatively soft, velvet-textured wine. But don't be deceived: beneath the smooth surface, there is a dark and mineral wine, all solid fruits and rich black berries.
By far the best Dewpoint to date, this tastes bone dry, yet it's succulent, concentrated, and lightly honeyed. The deep flavors of ripe Meyer lemon and citrus just keep on going and going.
By far the best wine in the El Fogón lineup is this Torrontes. The nose is clean and harmonious, with light flower blossom scents. A citrusy mix blends with both apple and pear fruit on the palate, and the finish is clean, if a bit sweet (residual sugar?). Drink as soon as possible.
By far this is the best Traslanzas I've come across. It is pure, with aromas of cola, mineral, black cherry and the mildest note of raisin. On the palate, it feels concentrated, with big tannins pushing sweet, dark flavors of blackberry, fig, chocolate and licorice. Tastes lightly toasted and feels big on the finish. Drink now through 2018.
By heating part of the must before vinification, Jean-Luc Baldès has revived the medieval way of making Cahors, when it was know as the black wine. It gives, literally, black colored wine, with flavors of stewed prunes allied to intense, dry tannins. Red berries add freshness, but this is more jelly, cooked fruits and darkness.
By its saturated, golden shine, you can tell that is a bolder, bigger Prosecco style and aromas of orange blossom, lemon candy and white stone reinforce that impression. Also a notch up in terms of concentration, the wine's mouthfeel is creamy and quite sweet for a Brut.
By its very name, this is the top wine from this estate in the Tarn region, which is close to Gaillac. It is powerful, with a medicinal and bitter chocolate edge. The fruit is firm, darkly tannic, rich and worth aging.
By Médoc standards, this 7-acre vineyard is small, with a production of 1,150 cases. The powerful blackberry flavor is sweetened by dark plum and licorice notes, structured with new wood influence and firm tannins. There is a juicy finish, and the tannins promise long-term aging.
By nature Albariño doesn't last long, and this is well past its prime. Chunky, mealy, soft aromas announce a fleshy, low-pulse palate with mealy peach flavors and no finish.
By no means a special wine but it does deliver full-force if generic dark-fruit aromas and flavors. The nose is a little hard and rubbery, but that's Utiel-Requena for you. Medium-bodied but not harsh or burnt; prune and blackberry flavors linger. Tempranillo and Syrah. Wines Imported by USA Wines Inc.
By now it's known that 2013 was a cold, tough, miserly vintage in most of Spain, RDD included. But this horsey, funky number goes beyond vintage conditions. It's unfocused, citric, leafy and green, with a hammering finish. Bottom line: this is not what you want from Ribera del Duero.
By sourcing French Colombard and force carbonating like beer, David Potter made this fun and tasty wine as an antidote to the high prices that sparkling wine traditionally require. Aromas of apple cider, crisp Granny Smith apples, key lime, yellow melon and chalk lead into a palate laced with fatter bubbles and flavors of more apple and pear.
By the sheer fact that this wine costs $6 and never really goes up in price, it holds onto its tenuous value status via clean tropical aromas and mild flavors of lime, pineapple and citrus. It's a touch hot and burning on the finish, but finish isn't what you're banking on with a wine like this. Imported by Freixenet, USA.
Byrne is a relatively young Clare Valley producer, having made its own wines only since 2008. This Reserve Cabernet features some charred oak and espresso notes on the nose, then ripe, plummy fruit on the palate. It's full bodied, dusty and extracted, boasting plenty of intensity, but lacking polish in this youthful state. It should improve for at least the next five years or so.
Byron’s first-ever wine from this justly famous vineyard. This wine flatters the senses from the get-go. The fruit is tremendously ripe, balanced and supple, with enough oak to lend it the requisite smoke and vanilla qualities and glyceriny sweetness. Soft, velvety, smooth and silky are just a few words to describe the mouthfeel.
Côte Bonneville releases this Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend quite late, so it's well into the maturing process. Pretty aromas of smoke, tea and mint accompany secondary fruit flavors. The vintage produced well-balanced wines, but many have slipped into a bit of a dumb phase at the moment, so try in 2015.
Côte de Beaune is a small strip of land at the south end of the Beaune vineyards, not often seen as a stand-alone appellation. This gently structured wine is full of fresh fruits and attractive acidity. With its dry core, it could develop but is drinkable now.
Cérons, next door to Sauternes, produces a lighter version of those dessert wines. This wine, with its characteristic honey sweetness, is edging toward toffee, the baked apple flavors already tamed by a few years aging. The core of botrytis dryness is now well integrated, suggesting the wine is ready to drink.
Cab Franc from Southern Oregon may not be on your radar, but this bottle suggests it should be. Violets and leather perfume the nose, introducing soft, round purple fruits highlighted with cinnamon and licorice. Maybe not technically perfect, but what a mouthful of delicious flavors.
Cab Franc is an emerging variety in Mendoza and this jammy fleshy version won't hurt the cause. Inky berry aromas are wide and fruity, not specific. A full-volume palate is a bit heavy, with blackberry, chocolate and peppery flavors. The finish hangs around with similar flavors, grapy weight and just enough acidity to maintain integrity.
Cab Franc is often a high point in lineups of red wines from the Rogue Valley, but this one misses the mark. A sweaty nose gets it off to a rough start, and the flavors of stems and green tannins do nothing to help the tart generic fruit. It might slip comfortably into a flight of budget Bordeaux from a cool year.
Cab Franc is often chewy, tannic, herbal, but rarely luscious, as it is here. The addition of 12% Merlot softens up the middle, but the Franc is the show, with a dazzling display of blueberry, boysenberry, raspberry, coffee, tobacco leaf, lead pencil and more.
Cab Franc makes a strong case for being top gun among this region's reds. This estate-grown example has been vinified for aromatics, elegance, balance and detail, and succeeds beautifully. Juicy boysenberry and blueberry fruit is buoyed with ample acidity. The flavors penetrate through a clean, crisp, lingering finish. Just 60 cases were exported to the U.S.
Cab specialist Surh Luchtel has had some years to figure out how to make their Page Nord Syrah, and judging by this '05 bottling, they're right on track. The wine is firmer in structure than the soft '04, but the flavors are no less startling. Blackberries, cherries, currants, chocolate and pepper flood the palate, wrapped into sumptuous tannins. Best now and for a few years.
Cabaços believes in releasing its wines when they are ready to drink. That's why it's possible to drink this Reserva for the first time. It's a magnificent, powerful wine, packed with dark fruits that are now mature. The opulent Alicante Bouschet is the backbone of the wine along with the more structured Touriga Nacional. Drink now.
Cabernet-philes who want to experiment with Petite Sirah will find this a rewarding entry wine. It shows the variety's firm, punchy tannins, full-bodied muscularity, and deeply extracted black currant, plum, carob, coffee, pepper and cedar flavors that are powerful and long-lasting. Yet beyond the brawn is elegance and finesse. Drink now through 2010.
Cabernet and Merlot are combined in 70-30 proportions. The aromas are elegant and tightly packed: Cherry, blackberry, molasses, maple syrup and tobacco leaf make up the core. The mouthfeel is dense and richly textured thanks to the wine's excellent structure.
Cabernet and Syrah are an unusual blend for a rosé, but this fresh and crisp wine works well. It has a vivid pink color followed by equally vivid red fruits and refreshing final acidity. Drink now.
Cabernet clones 6, 8 and 191 make up the majority of this wine. The aromas show some reduction out of the gate. This is followed by a medium-bodied, acid driven palate, with clove, cherry, wood spice and herb flavors. There's intrigue but it doesn't all quite come together. That said, it should fit in well at the dinner table.
Cabernet collectors who look beyond Napa Valley should be aware of this wine. It's an important addition to the Alexander Valley pantheon, a densely layered young wine. Shows brilliant red stone fruit, cassis, cola, date nut bread, mocha and tangerine zest flavors gorgeously lavished with the vanilla and smoky caramel of oak. Just delicious now, and should slowly spread its wings for many years.
Cabernet doesn't get bigger than this. It's an immense wine, explosive in blackberry, black currant, cedar and spice flavors, with immaculate Oakville tannins. Right up there with the best. Refined and exquisite on release, even without decanting, it will easily negotiate many years in the cellar.
Cabernet Franc's aromatic, lovely leafiness cannot be denied and beckons you to taste. The palate is of classic stature: fine-boned, poised, dense with finely woven Cabernet tannins, fleshed out with the charming plum fruit of Merlot and spiced with just a little vanilla. Whoever made this had elegance in mind. Wonderfully balanced. Drink 2018–2025.
Cabernet Franc (39%) takes the lead followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (38%), Petit Verdot (15%) and Merlot. Aromas of black currant, licorice, pencil lead and flowers are followed by ripe generous fruit flavors. The tannins are combed to a fine sheen.
Cabernet Franc (54%) takes the lead on this blend, with the balance Merlot (29%) and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas of flower, barrel spice and herb are light, with slightly dried-out raspberry and cherry notes lurking in the background. It also has a medicinal top note. Flavors are super-smooth and palate-coating, finishing sweet.
Cabernet Franc (84%) takes the lead on this wine with the balance equal parts Merlot and Petit Verdot. It opens with aromas of flowers, dried herbs, earth and mineral. The mouthfeel is dazzling, showing depth and intensity, with enough structure to go the distance.
Cabernet Franc (84%) takes the lead with the rest equal parts Merlot and Petit Verdot. It offers a complex assortment of herbs, including thyme and sage, along with floral notes, blackberry and anise. It's restrained yet fully flavored with a captivating feel and firm, fine-grained tannins. A complete dazzler that will only improve with some additional time in the cellar. Best from 2014 on.
Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon each take up 38% of this blend, with the rest equal parts Merlot and Petit Verdot. It captivates with aromas of black licorice, purple flowers, earth and herbs. The style is reserved, more focused on acid and tannin structure, but it still shows layers of textured fruit flavors. It will be best 2020–2030.
Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon share top billing here, in a sleek, stylish, beautifully polished wine loaded with blackberries, black cherries and cassis. Firm and textural, it layers in subtle spices, dark chocolate, espresso and moist loam, all in delicate balance. The firmness of the tannins and tightness of the layering suggests that laying it down for a few years will only improve it further.
Cabernet Franc has become a signature variety for this winery, and this wine shows why. It's direct and appealing with lush aromas and flavors of milk chocolate, cherry, barrel spices and flowers, with an herb-filled finish that hangs as long as you care to count.
Cabernet Franc has been the signature wine for Barrister since the first release in 2001. Once again it comes out dark and smoky in the house style, but with more spine and muscle than the Barrister Merlot. It's fully ripe and not at all vegetal, though you will find that it has the characteristic Cab Franc streak of pepper and coffee behind ripe black cherry and cassis fruit.
Cabernet Franc is a difficult variety on its own, but Jarvis does an excellent job. This is still quite tannic, with a hard, astringent mouthfeel to the cherry, blackberry and dark-chocolate flavors. Give this a few more years of aging, although it doesn't seem like a longterm ager.
Cabernet Franc is a regular part of the red blends made in St-Émilion in Bordeaux. This gem from the rich farmland of Lodi has vivid ripe plum and cherry aromas, and flavors tempered by traces of spice and mineral. With medium body and a firmly tannic texture it achieves classic balance.
Cabernet Franc is the base of this modern, plush wine with notes of cherry, plum, prune, mature fruit, earth, Porcini mushroom and spicy tobacco. The mouthfeel is elegant and delicate despite the thick extraction.
Cabernet Franc lends characteristic bramble and spice notes to flavors of preserved plum on this lush, fruity iced wine. It's lusciously sweet with a soft tangerine acidity.
Cabernet Franc makes up almost two-thirds of this wine, with the rest Merlot. Aromas of vanilla, cocoa, baking spice, flowers and cherry are followed by plentiful dark-fruit flavors and a tart finish, with the tannins providing a squeeze.
Cabernet Franc makes up half this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) and Merlot. Plum, blueberry, blackberry and baking-spice aromas lead to a fruit-filled palate with light barrel accents throughout.
Cabernet Franc makes up two-thirds of this wine with the rest Merlot. It dazzles with aromas of flowers, red fruit and mineral that are followed by generous amounts of dark fruit along with cranberry-like acidity.
Cabernet Franc often shows more stem and herb than either Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, but here there is little else to hang your hat on. Hard, chewy and tannic, it might best be drunk with a grilled steak, so those tough tannins are put to work.
Cabernet Franc produces lightly pink-colored wines, as in this bone-dry rosé. It is balanced between fresh raspberry fruits and crisp, nervy acidity. Drink now while it is still so bright and refreshing.
Cabernet Franc seems to be a strength in the Rogue Valley, as the fruit expression is good and the aggressive herbaceousness of Cabernet Sauvignon is somewhat tamed. Here the aromas are blackberry and cassis, and those fruit flavors are threaded with smoke and coffee. Balanced into a light, herbal finish.
Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Sangiovese Grosso create a wine with thick, milky concentration, harmony and feminine elegance. The wine seems compact in its essence but reveals many delicate notes that recall forest floor, cherry cola and black currants.
Cabernet Franc, used in Bordeaux blends and on its own in the Loire, is difficult to make into a complex wine in California. This bottling starts with aromas of black raspberry and spearmint, and drinks soft and fruity. It's a good wine, but on the simple side.
Cabernet from Discovery (43%) and Champoux (43%) vineyards make up the heart of this wine, with dollops of Klipsun Merlot and Champoux Cabernet Franc. Pungent aromas of blackberry, herb and earth lead to sweet black cherry and blackberry flavors that show sophistication. The sense of balance is compelling. It's very pretty, a thinking person's Cabernet.
Cabernet hardly gets richer or riper than this. The wine offers a huge blast of ripe and concentrated blackberries, cherries, cassis and mocha. The tannins are dense, yet soft and rich, while the acidity is just strong enough to support the structure. What a beauty. Lovely to drink now, and will develop over the next 10-plus years.
Cabernet makes up three-quarters of this blend. Appealing aromas of dried herbs, blue fruit, coffee and spice lead to sweet, full-feeling cherry and plum flavors backed by a light grip of tannins.
Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated, the blend also includes about one third Merlot and a splash of Syrah. Tight and somewhat reductive when first opened, it slowly unwraps into a substantial effort, dense with berry, cherry and cassis concentrate. Some not-quite-integrated green tannins remain, and the buttery finish also wants more bottle age. But a good effort overall.
Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated, this also includes smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Polished and dense, it offers pure, concentrated cassis fruit, framed by dark flavors of coffee and licorice. Give this one plenty of breathing time, as it's a high-octane powerhouse that needs some unpacking. Cellar until 2017, and possibly beyond.
Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) takes the lead on this wine, followed by Merlot (21%), Syrah (17%), Cabernet Franc (14%) and five other varieties. Aromas of blue fruit, char, plum, herb, confection and spice are followed by easy-drinking plum flavors, with a slightly clipped finish. It's a pleasant easy drinker.
Cabernet Sauvignon (37%) and Cabernet Franc (34%) make up the majority of this wine, with the balance Merlot (16%), Malbec (8%) and Petit Verdot. The aromas are quite locked up, with light notes of barrel spice, herb and assorted dark fruit. The palate has light tightly coiled fruit flavors. It needs time to reveal its charms. Best after 2021.
Cabernet Sauvignon (38%), Syrah (35%), Merlot (22%) and Sangiovese comprise this blend of declassified barrels. It displays aromas of mocha, barrel spices, dark berries and cranberry. The black-fruit flavors are ripe and generous, backed up by a firm lick of tannins.
Cabernet Sauvignon (42%) takes the lead with the rest equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of dried herbs, flowers, graphite and dark fruit lead to supple, layered dark fruit flavors back by the grip of dry tannins. Drink now.
Cabernet Sauvignon (45%) and Cabernet Franc (42%) take the lead on this blend. The aromas suggest notes of dried herb, cherry, vanilla and pencil shavings while the palate offers elegantly styled dark-fruit flavors with toasty accents. It's a very pretty expression of the vintage.
Cabernet Sauvignon (45%) takes the lead on this blend, followed by Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (20%) and Petit Verdot. The aromas are all high toned, with notes of vanilla, herb and dark fruit. The black-fruit flavors are tightly wound, needing time in the cellar to stretch their legs. Best after 2020.
Cabernet Sauvignon (50%) and Merlot (34%) make up the majority of this blend, with the balance equal parts Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Aromas are light and high-toned, with notes of savory herb, cherry and cedar. Elegant in style, the palate is backed by tart acids. The midpalate concentration at times seems a bit wanting, with cranberry flavors lingering on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon (50%) and Merlot (38%) make up the majority of this wine with the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. A blend of McClellan, Seven Hills and Anna Marie vineyards, it brings generous aromas of fresh herbs and cherry, with light barrel accents. The palate is soft and supple, showing a very pretty, elegant styling.
Cabernet Sauvignon (54%) takes the lead in this wine, followed by Merlot (31%) and Cabernet Franc (15%). The aromas are all high toned, including spice, dried dark fruit and herb notes. The black fruit shows depth, framed by lightly dry tannins and a gamy flavor that lingers on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon (54%) takes the lead on this blend, followed by Merlot (23%), Cabernet Franc (13%), Malbec (6%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of fresh herb, flower, pencil lead, cherry jam and spice lead to light tart, fresh fruit flavors. The tannins bring a bit of grip and dryness that hopefully smooths out with some additional time in the bottle but it has the stuffing to go the distance.
Cabernet Sauvignon (55%) Merlot (40%) and Cabernet Franc (5%) comprise this red blend from Idaho, named after the winemaker's son. Soft spice and berry on the nose and toast, tobacco and berry on the palate are approachable and pretty.
Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) takes the lead on this wine, followed by Petit Verdot (18%), Merlot (17%), Cabernet Franc (7%) and Malbec. Bright aromas of plum, cranberry, cigar box, blackberry, café au lait and smoke lead to sweet generous red and black-fruit flavors. It brings a sense of purity of flavor that captures the attention.
Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) takes the lead on this wine, with the balance Merlot (19%), Cabernet Franc (19%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of plum, vanilla and herb, along with a touch of cocoa powder lead to lightly styled fruit and barrel flavors.
Cabernet Sauvignon (58%) and Syrah (34%) make up the majority of this wine, with the balance being pinches of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The aromas bring notes of vanilla, baking spice, graphite and black cherry, with the oak (85% new French) up front. Fruit and barrel play off each other well on the palate. The barrel influence isn't shy but it still brings a lot of enjoyment.
Cabernet Sauvignon (65%) takes the lead in this wine, followed by Merlot (29%), Malbec (3%) and Cabernet Franc (3%). Aromas of cocoa, vanilla, graphite, and red and black fruit are followed by palate-coating fruit and barrel flavors backed by firm but well-integrated tannins.
Cabernet Sauvignon (65%) takes the lead on this wine followed by Merlot (15%) and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aromas of high-toned dried herbs, flowers, black currant, coffee and barrel spices lead to densely packed black fruit flavors that need time to strut their stuff. Drink after 2021.
Cabernet Sauvignon (66%) takes the lead on this Bordeaux-style blend, followed by Cabernet Franc (16%), Merlot (12%) and Malbec. Aromas of anise, dried herbs, dried cherries and tomato leaf are followed by lighter-styled medicinal flavors that linger.
Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) makes up the majority of this wine along with Merlot (23%), Malbec (5%) and Petit Verdot. It's aromatically brooding, with notes of black fruit, toffee, moist soil and a floral top note. The palate pulls few punches with its rich, high-octane flavors and firm tannins but manages to keep it all in balance.
Cabernet Sauvignon (71%) is in the lead here followed by Merlot (24%) and Cabernet Franc. Brooding aromas of herb, smoke, cherry and spice are followed by an elegantly styled palate. Lightly crunchy tannins and tart acids provide support. It's a very pretty expression of this esteemed vineyard.
Cabernet Sauvignon (71%) makes up the majority of this blend, which also includes Merlot (25%) and pinches of Malbec and Petit Verdot. Complex aromas of potting soil, green pepper, graphite, herbs, blackberry, licorice and barrel spices are followed by focused black-fruit flavors with light coffee accents.
Cabernet Sauvignon (73%) makes up the majority of this blend, with the balance Syrah (15%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of barrel spice, baking spice, dark fruit and herb are followed by luxurious black-fruit flavors that linger on the finish. It shows a bit of heat but otherwise delivers.
Cabernet Sauvignon (73%) makes up the majority of this wine, with the rest filled out by Merlot (15%), Petit Verdot (8%) and Cabernet Franc. Anise, woodspice and herb aromas are at the fore, leaning a bit into the green. The palate is light and elegant, with the tannins bringing a fair amount of grittiness. It needs some food to keep them in check.
Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) makes up the majority of this wine, with the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Aromas of high-toned green herbs, spice, black cherry and blackberry lead to lively cranberry and cherry flavors. It shows a sense of freshness, though at times it seems a bit green.
Cabernet Sauvignon (81%) takes the lead on this wine with the rest Merlot. Intriguing aromas of dried herb, moist earth, funk and blackberry reveal a palate full of concentrated fruit and savory flavors. It shows a sense of freshness and finesse.
Cabernet Sauvignon (84%) makes up the majority of this wine, with the rest Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Herb, dark fruit, tobacco, carob and spice aromas are followed by ripe, tannic fruit flavors that seem to tussle at times.
Cabernet Sauvignon (84%) takes the lead on this wine, with the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aromas of high-toned herbs, wood spices, cocoa, cassis and a mixture of maraschino and dark cherries are followed by a full palate, overflowing with generous fruit flavors.
Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) takes the lead on this blend, with the balance Syrah. It brings aromas of earth, green herbs, citrus and cherry that are followed by ripe cherry flavors and a firm squeeze of slightly dry tannins.
Cabernet Sauvignon (88%) takes the lead on this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah. Aromas of blackberry, blue fruit, flowers and barrel spice are followed by pitch-black-fruit flavors. Lightly chewy tannins provide some heft but have room to broaden.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend together well in this hearty red, which shows a healthy percentage of new French oak (80%), the wine made by Denis and May-Britt Malbec. Soft and easygoing, it shows a full-bodied balance of dark brooding black fruit and leathery spice.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc each make up 50% of this blend. The aromas are forward, with notes of matchstick, smoke, herb, char and game. The flavors are lighter in style, with game and herb influences throughout that distract.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc meet up with smaller amounts of Syrah, Zinfandel and Petit Verdot in this soft, silky blend. Mild tannin and a robustness of ripe black currant and cedar are seasoned in a strong whiplash of eucalyptus, as the finish touches a theme of black tea.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec make up the bulk of this blend, which is thick with dusty mocha and blackberry jam flavors. Medium bodied, it shows its crisp acidity on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are aged in large oak casks to produce a balanced relationship between the wine's fruit and spice-driven components. It's an informal and easy-drinking wine that would pair with roast beef or honey-glazed ham.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot come together to offer black currant and vanilla aromas in this dense Bolgheri red. The palate doles out ripe black plum and cedar-inflected tobacco flavors, set against fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot each make up 40% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc. The aromas suggest notes of herbs, fruit leather and anise that are followed by tart, palate-coating cranberry flavors, with celery notes on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot each make up 43% of this blend, with the balance Syrah. Somewhat reticent aromas of herb, red apple, cherry and spice lead to smooth silky red and black-fruit flavors. It brings a lot of appeal.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up nearly equal parts of this blend, with the balance Cabernet Franc (9%). Coming from a who's who of vineyards that includes Bacchus, Red Willow, Klipsun and Boushey, it offers nuanced, supremely well balanced aromas of spice, dried herb, raspberry and blackberry. The palate delivers on all of this promise with succulent yet still reserved red and black fruit flavors that show purity, focus and impeccable balance that kicks it up a notch.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the majority of this blend (42% each), with Malbec, Petit Verdot and Syrah rounding it out. Aromas of toast, vanilla, cocoa, cherry and herb lead to sweet, elegant chocolate and cherry flavors, threaded with vanilla notes.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the majority of this blend. High-toned aromas of dried herbs, tobacco, bell pepper, dark fruit and spice lead to pleasingly plump, well-balanced fruit flavors. It leans a touch into the green but still delivers a lot of enjoyment.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the majority of this wine, which comes from The Benches and Weinbau vineyards. The dark brewed-coffee, herb, milk chocolate and cherry aromas, with rich, full-bodied flavors, provide plenty of allure and value.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up three-quarters of this blend, with the balance Petit Verdot and Syrah. The aromas of herb, barrel spice, fig, dried fruit and vanilla are reserved while the red- and black-fruit flavors are rich but deft, with the tannins providing some heft. It seems a bit more evolved than its age might suggest.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up three-quarters of this blend. Subtle aromas of baking spice, vanilla and cherry lead to tart well-proportioned pit-fruit flavors. It shows a fine sense of balance.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot split the blend with 8% Syrah in addition. The opening scents are toasty and inviting, and the wine enters the palate smooth and agreeable, with pretty red fruits. There's a lick of licorice and then the flavors seem to lighten up and finish tart and astringent. But decant this and let it breathe, and the wine can surprise with its staying power.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Monastrell made in a ripe, high-alcohol style results in monster aromas of shoe polish and black licorice. The palate is a wave of chocolate and candied black fruits that crashes into a heavy, ultraripe finish of prune and pepper. A lunker wine with a sweet smile and a big handshake.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot combine harmoniously in this concentrated, structured and brooding red wine. It's wrapped in black fruit, black tea and herb tones, with a little clove flirting above the fray. The tannins are dry.
Cabernet Sauvignon blended with 10% Merlot create a vibrant wine with beautiful intensity and underlying tones of milk chocolate, prune, blueberry and spice. In the mouth, the wine is still a bit chunky and the tannins raw—you'd best wait to drink it after 2010.
Cabernet Sauvignon comprises 59% of this wine, with 35% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot blended in for good measure. Together, they offer firm lengthy tannins and a generous presence of body and weight. The darker characteristics of chocolate and blackberry are balanced by crisp red currant and spicy clove.
Cabernet Sauvignon comprises 95% of the blend, along with 5% Merlot. Sourced from the Beckstoffer Georges III vineyard, this wine shows the enormous ripeness and softness that vineyard is known for, with rich, opulent black cherry jam and mocha flavors, balanced by acidity and tannins. There's a lot of new oak. Drink now–2018.
Cabernet Sauvignon dominates here, from estate-grown vineyards that also provide the 13% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec. Soft and silky, the wine offers black cherry, black pepper and tight-grained tannin, atop a backdrop of spicy clove and mocha. Cellar through 2021.
Cabernet Sauvignon dominates in this 66% to 35% blend, with both varieties grown on the producer's Lookout Mountain estate. Full bodied, it features stewed plum, dark chocolate and mocha, with a base of cedar and clove. Extended tannins make it fleshy and full.
Cabernet Sauvignon from Champoux and Weinbau vineyards make up the heart of this wine, with a balance of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Cocoa, vanilla, dark plum, spice and herb aromas are followed by generous dark fruit flavors that coat the palate from end to end, with a lingering coffee note. At once hedonistic and balanced, it has a long life ahead of it. Best after 2022.
Cabernet Sauvignon from Navarra is always going to be vintage-dependent, so in a perfect year like 2005 a wine like this shows its best. The nose offers coconut, dill and cedar, which sets the stage for a lengthy, honest palate of roasted berry, cola, herb and tobacco flavors. Not a sweet or “fruity” style per se, but a cut above and a good terroir wine that reflects its year.
Cabernet Sauvignon gives this wine a luscious, elegant mouthfeel, with classic currant and cedar flavors. Syrah brings a gamy, leathery note, with white pepper accents. The result is an interesting, complex young wine of power and authority. Drink now.
Cabernet Sauvignon in Provence seems to evoke the herbal wild-thyme character of the countryside. This wine has weight to its black fruit flavors, with an edge from its tannins and acidity. It could age for 2–3 years. Screwcap.
Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend gives flavors of red cherry and some sweetness, the acidity missing that extra zing. It is soft, ripe, finishing gently.
Cabernet Sauvignon in the cool Lisboa region has a similarity to Bordeaux. It gives a structured, black currant flavored wine, with firm tannins, a mineral texture and serious acidity. The wine is tight and should age well. Drink from 2014.
Cabernet Sauvignon is blessed with 9% Merlot, coming together in a seamlessly rich wine intense in dark chocolate, coconut and vanilla. Soft, the tannins are integrated and the juiciness of the fruit concentrated, finishing with more of that rich taste of chocolate.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 35% of this blend, along with 26% Syrah, 26% Merlot, and 13% Cabernet Franc. Aged in 70% new French and American oak, barrel-forward aromas of vanilla, coconut and baking spice are out in front of a medley of dark fruit. The fruit flavors are sweet, rich and luscious, with toothsome tannins providing support. There's plenty of enjoyment to be had but the barrel influence is pretty intense.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 60% of this blend, with the balance Merlot (27%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of raspberry jam, smoke, cigar box and cranberry lead to rich full flavors. It pulls up a bit short, with medicinal notes on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 60% of this wine, with the rest Merlot (29%) and Cabernet Franc. It presents aromas of macerated cherries, licorice and whiffs of game. The flavors are lush and ripe, with firm but well-integrated tannins providing support.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 73% of this wine, along with 20% Merlot, 5% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. Tightly wound aromas of wood spice, vanilla, black fruit, plum and coffee bean give way to full-bodied, palate-coating and concentrated cherry and espresso flavors that linger on the finish. The barrel influence is heavy, but it works.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 75% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Aromas of smoke, herb, red and black fruit and spice are followed by plentiful dark-fruit flavors. It delivers a sense of hedonism.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 85% of this wine, with the balance Syrah. Bright aromas of plum, cassis, spice, herb, green pepper, blackberry bud and smoke are followed by a fruit forward palate showing a lovely sense of texture, balance and tension, with graphite notes throughout. It's remarkably fruit-filled for a wine from this region.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 90% of this wine, with the rest smidgens of Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Brooding aromas of blackberry seed, smoke, tar, wood spice, dark flowers and cherry pit are followed by generous full-bodied black-fruit flavors that possess a very supple feel. It's a bold but far from over the top expression of power.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 95% of this wine, with the balance Syrah. It seems reductive out of the gate, making it a challenge to get at the black-cherry aromas. The dark fruit, fig and herb flavors are full in feel, seeming slightly dried out and backed by surprisingly soft tannins for the variety.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up a little over three-quarters of this blend, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot rounding it out. The aromas start out brooding, with notes of pencil lead, black currant, flowers and green herb. The palate is focused, dense and textured, bringing an exquisite sense of balance along with a lengthy finish. Best after 2020.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up half of this wine with the rest Syrah (40%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of blackberry seed, spice, black licorice and dark fruit lead to ripe, full and appealing black-fruit flavors. It's a hedonistic delight.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up half of this wine, with the balance Merlot (31%), Malbec (15%) and Cabernet Franc. Barrel notes of vanilla and baking spice are up front, followed by herb and dark fruit tones that are backed by lively acidity. It currently drinks very tight. Give it some time in the cellar or an extended decant. Best after 2020.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over half of this blend with the rest Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Vanilla and cocoa aromas are out in front of herb, black licorice and dark fruit. The dark-fruit and woodspice flavors are refined and show a sense of depth, elegance and balance that captures the attention.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over half of this wine (52%); Merlot (46%) and a pinch of Malbec make up the rest. Plum, herb, barrel spice and currant aromas are followed by smooth fruit and barrel flavors. Lightly grainy tannins provide support while coffee flavors linger on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over two-thirds of this blend with the balance Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aromas of vanilla, cocoa, dill and cherry lead to restrained fruit and barrel flavors, with the tannins showing some grit.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over two-thirds of this wine with the balance Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Dried herb, black cherry, licorice and spice aromas lead to full-feeling dark fruit flavors that show intensity and persistence.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just under three-quarters of this wine with the balance Syrah. A blend of fruit from River Rock and Jack's vineyards, it's aromatically reserved, with notes of flowers, green herb, cherry and moist earth. The tart fruit flavors are silky and full in feel, bringing a lovely sense of presence to the mixture of fruit and savory flavors. The finish lingers.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up over 70% of this blend with the balance Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. It shows aromas of dark cherries, licorice and brooding black fruit that at times seems slightly dried out. The palate shows elegantly styled dark-fruit flavors that linger on the finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up the majority of this Meritage, with 25% Merlot, 8% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. The blending succeeds in offering a mix of chalky tannins and juicy cassis, with the wine structured and fairly elegant in style. Pencil lead and licorice mark the lengthy finish. Drink now through 2020.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up three-quarters of this blend with the balance Merlot (22%) and Malbec. Coming from a who's who of vineyards that includes Klipsun, Canoe Ridge, Seven Hills, and Alder Ridge, it displays aromas of toasty spices, graphite, fresh herb and black currant. The dark-fruit flavors are polished to a fine sheen, showing hang time on the finish. It impresses.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up three-quarters of this blend, with the rest Syrah (20%) and Grenache. Aromas of cedar, sawdust, vanilla, herb and medicine cabinet lead to creamy feeling fruit flavors. It brings appeal but the oak seems a bit too primary.
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up two-thirds of this wine, with the balance Malbec and Syrah. Vibrant aromas of plum, spice and herb are followed by plush, lightly sweet, palate-coating fruit flavors backed by grainy tannins. It finishes sweet, delivering plenty of easy-drinking appeal.
Cabernet Sauvignon meets Malbec and Petit Verdot in this hearty, big-boned red. Dark and stormy, it offers a wealth of juicy black fruit, leather and tobacco wrapped around sizable tannin. Peppery clove and chocolate round out the finish. It will drink best 2018–2023.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot are blended to produce a wine of enormous intensity and personality. You'll get aromas of inky black fruit, barbecue sauce, cola, root beer and black cherry. The wine tastes beautifully smooth and soft in the mouth.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot are combined to produce a beautiful red wine of intensity, persistency and integrity. Bright blackberry and cherry aromas are backed by crushed pepper and green mountain herbs.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot come together to form an herbal, medium-bodied wine that drinks lean. Cedar, black tar and leather meet black pepper and chocolate while the tannins remain tight and firm.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot form a rich thick character for this red wine, that's lush and concentrated on the palate. Full-bodied ripeness features black-cherry pie in a graham cracker crust.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot from the trio of this blend, yielding rounded, red fruit-driven flavor. Dense tannins shoulder its body and weight, as savory anise, dried herb and pencil characteristics figure in.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cab Franc are in the blend, which saw one quarter new American oak. It's bone dry, a palate ripper, with a steely core of red berries and stiff, green tea tannins.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up equal parts of this wine, with pinches of Petit Verdot and Malbec blended in. Vanilla, cocoa, coffee, herb and cherry aromas are followed by generous fruit and barrel flavors supported by tightly wound tannins. The wood is primary right now. It will be best after 2021.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are combined to produce a rich, creamy red wine with milk chocolate, blueberry and exotic spice. Emilio Primo is rich, plush and soft in the mouth.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah make up the majority of this blend. Aromas of dark plum, dried herb, black fruit and bittersweet chocolate are followed by full-bodied black-fruit flavors. It delivers a lot of enjoyment.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Syrah all play a part in this wine. Pink-red in color and ripely sweet in stone fruit, it conveys intense, full-bodied layers of tannin and texture.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Merlot are all represented in this estate blend that is both brawny and intensely savory. Black pepper and pencil shavings support a tightness of grippy tannin and integrated oak, allowing for only the slightest inkling of fruit in the form of baked plum. This will best be enjoyed 2020–2023.
Cabernet simply doesn't get richer or riper than this. It's a massive explosion of sweet cherry and blackberry jam, cassis, dark chocolate and caramelized oak, wrapped into firm tannins. Tastes like a candy bar now, nowhere near ready to drink. Hold until 2015, at least.
Cabernet specialist Alpha Omega is increasingly showing a knack with Sauvignon Blanc. This vintage shows crisp acidity and a dry palate with flavors of citrus, tropical fruit, grass, honey and oak.
Cabernet specialist Baldacci tries their hand at Pinot Noir, and what do you know? It's a Cabernet-esque Pinot, which means its heavy and full bodied. There's plenty of savory blackberry essence, but the challenge is to bring grace and lightness to this variety.
Cabernet specialist Terra Valentine tries their hand at Merlot, with mixed results. The wine feels labored, as though it were produced to meet some sort of profile. It's soft, gently tannic and sweet in cherry pie, mocha and anise.
Cabernet specialist Venge brings its vision of big, bold wines to Chardonnay, with mixed results. The wine is huge and fruity, with massive pineapple, pear, crème brûlée, buttered toast, caramel and vanilla spice flavors, in which oak obviously plays a part. Yet it's almost too much of a good thing. It earns its high score for sheer power, but you find yourself wanting greater subtlely and finesse.
Cabernet specialist Venge tinkers with white blends under the Spettro designation, with inconsistent results. This 2010 is mainly Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with a splash of Chenin Blanc. It's a good, sound white wine, dry and crisp in acidity, with mineral-infused pear, citrus fruit and apricot flavors. No oak is evident.
Cabernet specialist von Strasser turns to the only Zinfandel vineyard on this mountain to produce this dense, layered young wine. Well-oaked, it shows smoky flavors of blackberry marmalade, red and black currants and peppery spices, and has the texture of a fine Cabernet. Drink now through 2013.
Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese and Syrah produce a sophisticated and refined blend that boasts fantastic power and intensity. The wine is dark, chewy, rich and bursting with flavors of mature berry, spice, cola, leather and tobacco.
Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon show a united front with an authentic Italian feel. Umbria's Marciliano is a dense and rich red wine, with savory aromas of blackberry, cured meat, dried sage, leather, tobacco and dark chocolate. The wine's tannins are firm and dense, but not at all sharp or thorny.
Cabernets just don't get much richer, riper or deeper than this single-vineyard beauty. Dry, tannic and fine in acidity, it's a full-frontal assault of blackberries, cassis liqueur and new oak, concentrated beyond belief. The sheer magnitude demands time in the cellar. Try after 2015, and it could go far beyond that.
Cabreo is a bulldozer of a wine with brawny power, solid dimension and hearty aromas of smoked bacon, black ink, tar and chocolate fudge. The blend is 70-30 Sangiovese and Cabernet and the dense concentration achieved with these two grapes is remarkable.
Caburnio (mostly Cabernet Sauvignon) shows elegant aromas of blackberry pie, coffee, cinnamon cake and exotic spice. There's a tiny herbal or medicinal touch backed by tones of cola, leather and dried tobacco.
Cadaretta's largest production red is drinking beautifully in this exceptional vintage. It seems to be moving into midlife softness, with a well-integrated blend of plums, cassis and black cherries, highlighted with clove and coffee. Complex and detailed, its tannins are grainy and dark, adding heft and gravitas to the fruit.
Cadaretta's production of this popular blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon seems to have tripled in this vintage, and the wine has lost some of its depth. It's crisp and edgy, with spicy highlights around light flavors of celery, pepper, jicama, cucumber and lemon.
Cadaretta's Windthrow is a limited-release southern Rhône blend of 37% Syrah, 27% Mourvèdre, 18% Counoise and 18% Grenache. The fruit is just ripe enough, clean and juicy, with a spicy and tart mouthfeel. What's most surprising is the length—the wine seems to gather itself and push on through a full-throttle finish, adding nougat and vanilla custard to the mix.
Cadillac faces Barsac and Sauternes across the Garonne river and shares the same autumn conditions that give the noble rot in the sweet wines. This wine offsets sweetness with a fresh, lemon marmalade crispness to give a well-balanced, ready-to-drink wine.
Cadus from Nieto Senetiner has not been overly consistent in recent years. This wine is black as night, with ultra-extracted aromas of black fruit and chocolate. The palate is hunky and chunky, with clumsy grape, cassis and blackberry flavors. Shows a blast of coconut and softness on the finish. A classic fruit bomb that's missing some key parts.
Café au lait, ash and caramel aromas are followed by full-feeling dark-fruit flavors that lose their cohesion on the back half but still provide persistence.
Café au lait, bittersweet chocolate and blackberry aromas are followed by abundant coffee and black-fruit flavors. It shows layers and density, with fruit and barrel walking hand in hand down the aisle.
Café au lait, herb, cherry and wood-spice aromas lead to elegantly styled fruit and barrel flavors. It shows a lovely sense of styling.
Café au lait, mocha, wood spice and herb aromas are followed by sweet plentiful black fruit flavors. The tannins give a dry squeeze.
Café au lait, spice, cherry, herb and chocolate aromas lead to silky, plump, dark fruit flavors. It provides a combination of quality and value.
Café mocha is the first aroma, and that's backed by char, pepper, smoldering black fruit and earth, the sum of which gears you up for the palate, which is healthy but not too fierce or tannic. Flavors of berry and cassis are natural and juicy, while the finish is long and brings in tobacco and leather notes. Drink now through 2010.
Caiatì is an interesting and unique expression of Pallagrello that does an excellent job of offering both aromatics and structure. Notes of melon, peach and apricot are followed by smooth creaminess and density.
Cairnbrae's 2014 is a pleasant surprise, boasting fine aromatics of celery leaf and struck flint, bold passion-fruit flavors and a long, mouthwatering finish. Subtle herb shadings and a rich texture add extra interest, but drink up by the end of 2016.
Calabretta delivers an easy white wine (made from Carricante) with sharp mineral tones at the back of citrus and peach. There's personality here thanks to volcanic soils but ultimately this is the kind of wine you'll want to pair with salad or tuna.
Calabria's Statti offers one of the best and purest expressions of Gaglioppo found in the United States today. This unique offering has a bright garnet color, and shows clean acidity and distinctive aromas of wild berry and burnt almond.
Calasole has a very nice, silky feel in the mouth followed by ripe aromas of peach, honeydew and pear. Thanks to Vermentino's natural structure, this is a very food-friendly wine that could pair with pasta or white meat.
Calatrasi's Terre di Ginestra Catarratto is an easygoing wine with dusty mineral tones at the back of zesty citrus, stone fruit and green grass notes. The wine will wash down fish, seafood salad and tuna steak with ease.
Calcaia is an elegant dessert wine from Umbria that has seen botrytis. Delicate aromas of candied fruit, honey and apricot make for an impressive bouquet.
Calcarole is an expensive and important Amarone but ultimately, it delivers too much power and intensity. The fruit is overripe, the alcohol is high, the oak element is dominating and the sweetness in the mouth leaves a long-lasting impression. You'll also get exotic spice, black slate and strawberry.
Caldwell managed to wrest plenty of blackberry and cherry fruit into this Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend, even though the vintage was a tough one. The wine, aged in 80% new French oak, is elaborate and opulent, but the tannins are strong, giving the palate a lockdown astringency. It should age well though and your window of drinking begins in 2019.
Caleo opens with a bright, almost pungent note of almond paste, cassis and dried apple. Bramble, wild berry and almond skin appear on the easy finish.
Calera's basic Central Coast Pinot is a good, drily crisp wine, showing some real elegance. A little heavy, it shows cherry, red currant, herb, tobacco, teriaki beef and sandalwood flavors. Drink now. More than 12,000 cases were produced.
Calidonio is a fascinating and deeply layered wine that is remarkable off the bat thanks to its unique personality and compelling aromatic profile. Piedirosso (85%) is fermented in oak with 15% Aglianico to create tones of black fruit, spicy smoked meat, resin and black licorice. It is smooth and very soft on the close.
California's best Riesling grown for 25 years at 1,800 feet above Napa Valley. Crisp and concentrated flavors of apples, lime and minerals are encased in fine acidity and drink steely and sleek. The residual sugar us 0.7%, which is off-dry, but the acids are so good, the wine feels dry in the mouth. By the way, this wine will age for a long time.
California's Cameron Hughes dips a toe into Oregon waters with this quite drinkable Willamette Valley Pinot. It floats light cherry fruit around some woody, herbal, stiff tannins. There's a nice touch of cinnamon spice ringing through the finish.
California-based Siduri cellared and bottled this wine that was vinified in Oregon. Still young and compact, it nonetheless shows some good flesh on its bones. The tannins pop out a bit, along with red berries and a streak of coffee. Another year of bottle age would be helpful, or give it plenty of aeration.
California Cabernet simply doesn't get richer or riper than this. It explodes with blackberry and cherry jam and chocolate flavors whose sweetness persists into the long, spicy finish. And yet the wine is technically dry. Drink over the next few years.
California comes to Burgundy in this wine, which features aromas of toast, caramel and butterscotch and flavors of buttered baked apples. Lush and obvious; even shows a bit of California-esque heat on the finish.
California has struggled to produce a super-Tuscan that was at once deeply flavored and classically structured. With this wine, Flora Springs raises the bar. It has all the fruity flavors you expect from the vintage, with the architecture of a fine Napa red. The tannins and acids are softly intricate. Mainly Sangiovese and Merlot, with a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon.
California Malbec by itself tends to be straightforward, which might be why the winemaker blended this one with a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The result is excellent, one of the best Malbecs in California, with rich blackberry, currant and cedar flavors. The strong tannins suggest it should pair well with beef.
California rosé is awfully hard to get right. It's usually too sweet, too heavy or both. With this Grenache-Cinsault blend, Minassian-Young knocks it out of the park. The wine is dry, delicate, modest in alcohol, and complex, with subtle peach, rosehip tea, orange zest, watermelon and spice flavors. A great bargain, but only 64 cases were produced.
California Viognier doesn't get any richer than this. Although it's dry, it has high-alcohol glycerine that gives a honeyed sweetness to the flamboyant pineapple, nectarine, peach and lemon cream flavors. Drink this unctuously soft wine as a cocktail by itself with savory appetizers.
California winemaker Ehren Jordan contributed to the making of this wine in partnership with Australian Bernard Hickin, hence the Two Lands moniker. It's a solid wine for the price, delivering subtle toasted-grain notes, vanilla and citrus custard flavors and a reasonably full, creamy texture. Drink now.
California winemaker Nick Goldschmidt reaches back to his New Zealand roots for this bottling. It's a finely balanced mélange of grapefruit, cut grass and fig notes carried by medium body and a soft, appealing finish.
Calina's first attempt at a super Chilean is successful. The wine, a multiappellation blend, really pops in the mouth. The fruit is ripe and the power is there. However, for someone looking for a reserved red made in the Bordeaux style, something that Chile can deliver, this could come across as aggressive, as the acidity is a bit sharp.
Calina usually makes a nice value Chardonnay, and this vintage is no different. The wine has a chunky dry-peach opening, which is backed by a round, smooth palate and flavors of sweet pear, baked apple and roasted corn. Honey and orange notes make cameo appearances. Good for the price.
Call it a “superMarche” wine. The blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon with 40% Montepulciano and 10% Merlot. It offers deep intensity with floral, almost potpourri-like tones of dried rose backed by cherry, spice and touches of chocolate fudge. It's plush and velvety with medium intensity on the mid-palate.
Call it a reserve style of California Chardonnay. This has a deeper than usual gold color, quite buttery aromas and a buttery, rich feel on the palate, finishing with some crisp apple and baking spice flavors. It's dry and rich, but not overly full bodied.
Call it country-style, with the minty sharpness and slightly sweet, candied raspberry, cherry and blackberry flavors. The acidity reprises on the finish, accentuating and harshening the tannins.
Call me traditional, but 100% American oak (roughly one-third new) doesn't quite harmonize with sparkling Shiraz, at least in this instance. It's given a sappy, resiny, almost hoppy character that lingers on the palate, marrying uneasily with the black cherry fruit.
Call this chunkster Midnight Madness and you won't be off course. The wine is black in color and just as black on the nose and in the mouth. Cassis, asphalt and molasses aromas are a good prelude to chewy blackberry flavors. The palate and finish are both soft and meaty, with velvety tannins. Drink soon.
Call this Pinot useful, rather than complex or ageable. It's nicely dry, acidic and silky in the mouth, with jammy raspberry, cherry and persimmon flavors. Food pairings range from steak to tuna tartare or a bacon burger.
Call this traditional, a throwback, or whatever you want, because it's a less-polished wine with a strong sense of buttery oak and animal. It's also challenging and strained, with herbal tart plum flavors and a strong note of cheesy oak to the finish.
Call this wine rustic for its berry and cherry flavors that are so ripe, they veer into raisins. It's almost like a minor Port, with an inky black color and an overtly sweet, milk chocolate finish.
Called 2 Worlds because of the two different vineyards that go into the blend, this is a structured, firm wine. It has a fine balance between the acidity, the tannins and the black currant fruit. With its texture and dry core, it needs time, so drink after 2015.
Called 3BB because it combines the three best barrels of the vintage, this is an earthy Pinot, soft, round and highlighted in cinnamon spice and electric acidity, especially on the finish. The fruit leans toward darker, lusher black cherry, a flavor that takes some time to develop aromatically.
Called “Apiana” because Muscat is attractive to bees, this is very dry and lightly perfumed. It has great fresh acidity to complement the grape and spice character.
Called Earth because, claims Pommery, the bottle is lighter (meaning lower carbon footprint in transportation). The wine is a fine blend, bringing good acidity to balanced white and green fruits, the light dosage finely integrated.
Called Vermentinu in Corsica, the grape gives an aromatic wine with wildflower scents. On the palate, it's crisp with pears and red apples that are cut by the squeeze of citrus. Drink this attractive wine now.
Calling a wine romantic is perhaps a new approach for Bordeaux. The wine itself is ripe and jammy, with wood tannins that will be softer in a year. Drink from 2016.
Calling on the inspiration or mysticism of the figure 7, grower Didier Pelvillain has introduced this version, one in a range of three. This wine is balanced between juicy acidity and firm, dark tannins. The black plum fruit flavors are still in the background as it develops. Give this wine time to fill out and start drinking from 2018.
Calling this big-boned brew potent may be understating things. This is brawny Tupungato Malbec in full armor. Early oak-driven aromas of hard cheese and char support muscular black fruit scents, while the palate is ripe and sweet as it offers blackberry and cassis flavors. Comfortable on the palate and well balanced overall.
Calliope is the second label of Burrowing Owl. This tight, toasty blend is comprised of 56% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 8% Malbec and 6% Syrah. Pinpoint fruit flavors of plum and cherry carry a pleasant saline note.
Calls to mind the 2006, which also was a ripe, fruity wine. If anything, the '08 is even sweeter. The alcohol is half a percent higher. It's succulent in raspberry and cherry jam, making it likeable now. But such are the tannins and acids that the wine should easily gain in the cellar over the next six years.
Calm aromas of plum, berry fruits and dried spices are composed. This feels solid and ripe, but also energetic. Flavors of chocolaty oak, mocha, baked plum and ripe berry fruits finish with lasting notes of clove and wood spice. Drink through 2022.
Calm, composed and complete, this wine speaks softly but carries big flavors, a velvety texture and lingering finish. Aromas are subdued, the flavors warm and ripe and the body nice and full.
Calm, cool, collected aromas of herbal blackberry and plum set up a plump palate with integrated, mild tannins. This tastes dark, toasty and mostly of roasted berry fruits, while it finishes on oaky spice notes and a hint of chocolate.
Calm, foresty, complex and inviting on the bouquet, with catchy berry and spice aromas. It's round, balanced and healthy in the mouth, with cola, dried herb, cassis and blackberry flavors. Chocolaty and oaky on the finish, but dry and proper. Almost identical to Qaramy's basic blend of Malbec, Cab and Syrah. Drink now.
Calvarino is another gorgeous expression of Soave Classico from producer Pieropan, widely considered a quality leader in the area. There are deep layers here of flavor and aromas that include peach, nectarine, almond and thick honey. It has good density and persistency in the mouth.
Camarato is a beautiful wine and the 2004 vintage shows impressive harmony and elegance. The wine opens with aromas of chocolate, black cherry and spice. In the mouth, it shows firm, enduring tannins. Pair it with a succulent steak.
Camaspelo is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with 20% Merlot. The fruit shines through brightly in this cooler vintage, black cherry and plum with a saline minerality. The wine saw 40% new oak, perhaps for the last time, as Christophe Baron believes “the barrel is dead” and is moving to all-neutral, large format foudres, puncheons and concrete. Soft, supple and sensuous, this is a delicious wine drinking quite nicely already.
Camastra is a 60-40 blend of Nero d'Avola and Merlot from Tenuta Regaleali that delivers distinct aromas of blackberry fruit, leafy vegetable, green pepper, cherry and moist earth. The wine is firm and black in concentration with a high quality of tannin.
Camelot is a bold blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that shows great balance and elegant composure. It's not overdone or jammy, despite the hot climate that shaped it. Instead, it shows focus and precision in its blackberry, cherry, oak spice and cinnamon notes.
Cameron Hughes bottles dozens of wines from California growers, and now he's expanded to include Rioja and Campo de Borja in Spain along with South Africa. This wine is made in the full-throttled, modern style. There's copious oak, toast and darkness on the bouquet, and then full-bodied black plum, raspberry and spice flavors. Quite a bulky, oaky style, but also one endowed with chocolate, nuttiness and depth.
Camiana has been establishing a real track record with this bottling, and the 2008 is the best yet. It shows the intensity and purity of Howell Mountain fruit, bearing deep flavors of blackberries, blueberries, dark chocolate and currants, with big, firm tannins that are characteristic of the mountain. There's also a softness and a femininity that make the wine drinkable now, but it should easily develop over the next decade, at the very least.
Camigliano's Brunellos are always distinctive thanks to the estate's positioning on the lower slopes of the Montalcino denomination in a location prized for grape-growing since ancient times. The beautiful 2007 riserva shows dark chocolate, bright cherry and leather. The oak influences still need time to settle down.
Camp Gros Martinenga is located on the lower part of Rabajà at the heart of Barbaresco and produces wines with excellent expansion and staying power. This wine does an excellent job of highlighting elegance and tradition. It is streamlined and firm in the mouth with bright highlights of red currants, pressed violets and dried spice.
Campaccio Riserva is a bold, modern blend of Sangiovese and Cab Sauvignon from an estate in Radda in Chianti. The wine delivers loads of fresh spice, clove, black peppercorn, coffee and vanilla over solid red fruit.
Campanaro is a unique blend of Fiano and Greco grapes that opens with a beautiful bouquet of stone fruit, honey, white almond and Golden Delicious apple. It a dry, crisp wine with a focused, fine feel in the mouth.
Campania's celebrated Feudi di San Gregorio recently unveiled a new, revamped style for its white wines. This debut vintage delivers gorgeous tones of peachy cream and sophisticated mineral tones. It's an oak-fermented expression of Greco di Tufo from 15-year-old vines.
Campfire and hickory aromas dominate the nose on this superficial Carmenère that's round in the mouth but also acidic and showing little structure or stuffing. Flavors of black fruits, herbal notes and wood finish rubbery in feel then bitter in taste.
Campfire smoke and meat rise on the nose of this 100% varietal wine, a nearly rustic experience if it weren't for the powerful beauty behind the rest of the story. A soft, dry grip of tannin plays against youthfully ripe notions of blackberry jam on toast, with chocolate and cigar lurking in the background. Drink now through 2023.
Campfire smoke appears to be the signature of this producer and the old vines planted in 1920 from which it sources. The wine is thick, ripe and soft. Black plum is the star on the palate, taking on a baked, jammy quality on the finish, accented in vanilla.
Campfire smoke presents a hearty, full-throttled introduction to this rugged wine, grippy, with offerings of red and black berry layered against tar and dark chocolate.
Campfire smoke punctuates the opening of this intensely dense wine. It veers into jammy, syrupy territory, red and black berry fruit exploding at its juicy core.
Campfire smoke, roasted game, black pepper and raspberry greet the nose on this wine from the smooth jazz saxophonist, made in Buellton by the Terravant facility. The smoked meat carries to the palate, where it shows cranberry fruit, pepper and anise.
Campfire, animal, horseradish and berry aromas make for a slightly difficult nose. This Malbec feels pinched, with tannic pull. Salty black-fruit flavors finish similar, with popping acidity that keeps this lively.
Camphor and cedar oak aromas partially mask flavors that center around earth and pie cherries. The fruit is a little thin and the overlay of oak only emphasizes that.
Camphor, espresso and black-skinned berry lead the nose while the delicious palate offers crushed black raspberry, orange peel, white pepper, chopped herb and a hint of star anise. It's tightly wound with youthfully firm but elegant tannins. Drink 2018–2024.
Camphor, eucalyptus, berry and a whiff of cellar floor lead the nose. The bright palate shows Morello cherry, star anise and aromatic herb alongside tightly wound tannins that leave a firm, austere finish.
Camphor, menthol, toast and espresso aromas lead the nose. The firm, tightly wound palate shows roasted coffee bean, dried cherry and licorice alongside bracing tannins.
Campidonne is a sassy, spicy wine with loads of cinnamon, chocolate, nutmeg and spice spread over a core of black fruit and cherry. It's smooth and compact with a bright spot of freshness on the medium finish.
Campirossi opens with slightly muddled aromas of candied fruit, leather and almond. It shows a touch of bitterness on the finish, with lingering notes of crushed white pepper.
Campo dei Gigli is a blockbuster wine with dark concentration, enormous richness and intense aromas of blackberry, BBQ sauce, sweet cherry and mesquite smoke. The wine tastes round and supple and offers a long, smooth finish. Drink after 2015. Amazing.
Campo del Drago is an intense and expertly extracted wine with plush layers of cherry, spice, coffee and chocolate fudge. The mouthfeel is smooth, supple and this wine would pair with all red meat dishes.
Campo del Tìtari Riserva is an incredibly intense and meaty wine with ripe berry notes, barbecue smoke and exotic spice. You'll also get some chalky, mineral notes at the back and the wine is velvety in the mouth with drying tannins.
Campo Leòn has herbal or green aromas that are unusual in Amarone. Those leafy elements are backed by ripe fruit, spice and toasted almond. It's round and full on the close with lingering berry flavors.
Campo Leòn is a jammy, chewy wine with raw notes of black cherry, Indian spice, cedar wood and melted chocolate. It's thick, syrupy and it's hard to imagine a balanced food pairing outside succulent red meat.
Campo Magri is a bright and lively Valpolicella Superiore with crisp tones of cherry and wild berry backed by slight smoke and spice. The natural acidity will cut through the density or ossobuco or beef stew.
Campo Morar is a sophisticated and rich Valpolicella that sees 18 months of oak aging for extra intensity and density. The wood tones add softness and lingering aromas of vanilla and spice but don't completely eliminate a sour note on the close.
Campo Prognài is a gracefully oak-aged Valpolicella Superiore that shows surprising density and persistency with lively aromas of cherry, blackberry, toasted almond and exotic spice. Pair this wine with roasted chicken or meatloaf.
Campogiovanni is a rich, inky expression of Sangiovese Grosso with beautiful personality and length. The mouthfeel is still young and raw but the aromas already show deep evolution and harmony. You'll recognize tones of red cherry, root beer, mesquite and Indian spice.
Campolieti is a fresh and fruity Ripasso with layers of dried blueberry, rum cake and spice followed by some very light mineral shadings. It boasts a crisp, clean mouthfeel and ends with a hint of vanilla and toasted almond.
Campolongo di Torbe shows aromas of plum cake, raisin, baking spices and a touch of leather. The palate delivers a nice depth of flavors that boast black cherry, white pepper, licorice and well-integrated oak notes.
CampoRe opens with slightly oxidized (but not overwhelming) aromas of caramel and butterscotch followed by mature melon, apricot and dried almond. The wine tastes soft and slightly sweet with marzipan-like flavors on the close.
Campovida's Mendocino take on a classic Italian white, this Arneis is floral, balancing its high-wire acidity with standout characteristics of lemon, grapefruit and just-ripe pear. This is a perfect wine to pour with light appetizers or for the first sip of the day.
Campovida continues to impress with its newly released white wines, producing this crisp, sharp and lemon-y Chardonnay from the beautiful Oppenlander Vineyard, settled in the tiny coastal-kissed town of Comptche. The lemon hits first, followed by a distinct layer of green apple and even a hint of floral fig. With graceful acidity, this is a perfect white for the dinner table, not too high in alcohol at 13.1%, too.
Campuget has been a reliable source of rosé for at least a decade, and the 2013 is even better than usual. It's now made in a pale copper hue, light, crisp and lean, with aromas and flavors of wet stone, citrus and underripe peach highlighted by a long, lime-driven finish.
Can't-miss aromas of juniper, olive and tree bark dominate lesser notes of lemon peel and blackberry. This feels taut and rubbery, with tomatoey acidity. Woodsy, herbal, gritty flavors of currant and cranberry finish tart and with a note of minty green.
Can't-miss aromas of petrol, wet stones and lime will have you thinking this is Riesling, but the blend is two-thirds Garnacha Blanca and the rest Macabeo. Tight and well cut on the palate, this tastes of melon, lime and peach pit. A quick, lean finish works.
Can't miss this bottle on the shelf, with La Monroe herself giving that come-hither look. The wine too is soft and fleshy. With 12% Cabernet Sauvignon to give some punch, it has uplifted blackberry, cherry, dark chocolate and smoke flavors, and is totally dry.
Can't really say there's much difference between this and Carta Vieja's Classico SB. Both are bland, with chunky apple and pear characteristics. Neither has much of a pulse, but on the plus side they aren't nasty or aggressive. This “limited release” turns out to be a basic wine for basicoccasions.
Can Blau's wines are always black in color and fully extracted. This is no different, and its aromas of boysenberry and wood smoke are inviting. Full, flush and meaty on the palate, this multigrape blend pours on the black plum, blackberry and boysenberry flavors, while the finish is dense and chocolaty. Drink through 2020.
Can Paso Robles grow Pinot Noir? This wine suggests yes, at least in the cooler Willow Creek and Templeton Gap zones. This offers aromas of graphite, pomegranate and plums, followed by a palate that blends dark purple fruits with eucalyptus-like herbals. This will be even better with some time in bottle.
Can Syrah get any richer than this wine? It has massive flavors of chocolate, licorice, blackberry pie, brown sugar, exotic spice and sandalwood that taste sweet yet finish dry and smooth. The tannins are so thick, you will need steak or lamb to wrestle them to the ground. Drink now–2016.
Can Washington Mourvèdre really be this good? From the Far Away Vineyard (previously named for owner Art den Hoed) it sure can. Sappy and fresh, this lively wine features ripe red fruits, sharp acids and smooth tannins, with toasted walnuts and caramel streaking through the finish. It shows excellent concentration and length.
Can you guess what the S stands for? The nose is tarry and intense, full of black olives, plum and espresso. Yup, it's Syrah. Full-bodied and velvety, but with a firm core and a rich, layered finish. It's fine now, but try to hold some until 2016 and possibly as late as 2020.
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.
Canary Hill Shines in this new vintage, with mixed and juicy fruit flavors of cranberry, raspberry and cherry. It has good grip and a well-balanced herbal note, finishing with hints of green tea.
Candied-raspberry aromas are soapy and strange. This sweet Tannat from Brazil is hollow yet cloying, with candied-cherry flavors that don't cut it. While not undrinkable, this just isn't good.
Candied and simple, with raspberry and cherry Lifesaver flavors. Okay for big parties.
Candied and thin on the nose, and that's pretty much what follows. The palate is dilute, while the flavors of red fruits are crisp and semisour. Scratchy and tart on the finish as well.
Candied apple, cantaloupe, plumeria and bubblegum touches show on the nose of this ripe blend of 39% Marsanne, 38% Roussanne and 23% Grenache Blanc. There are strong tropical notes on the palate, including guava, coconut oil and tuberose flavors.
Candied apricot dominates on the nose and palate of this vineyard-designated wine that is fleshy and reflective of its five months in new French oak. Creamy and round, it finishes ripe and rich.
Candied apricots, blossom honey and notions of orange zest take turns in dazzling the nose and palate, while musky botrytis lends a rounded note to the mouthfeel, melding all together into sweet BA harmony. Simply lovely, now or in future years.
Candied aromas lead to a bland, confected wine that is flat and missing fruit. It is clean with a hint of perfumed lime. There is little of interest here.
Candied aromas of plastic and earthy black cherry lead to a medium-full palate that's creamy in feel. Lightly oaked and resiny cherry and plum flavors finish loamy and with modest acidity. Drink lightly chilled for best results.
Candied berry and cotton candy aromas include creamy notes of oak and vanilla. A beefy, muscular palate gives dark flavors of blackberry and chocolate, while peppery spice and burnt notes rise up on a spunky finish.
Candied berry and sweet oak are draped all over a ripe, rich nose. This is bright, fruity and cleanly made. Flavors of blueberry and cassis run sweet and oaky, while milk chocolate and residual berry fruit push the finish. The wine balances oakiness and sweetness.
Candied berry aromas are a touch syrupy. In the mouth, this is tight, rugged and high in acidity. Dry raw flavors of currant and cranberry feature an herbal accent. Drying abrasive tannins rule a raw, snappy finish.
Candied berry aromas are clean and pleasant. This is solid on the palate, with a bit of reduction. Jammy plum, cassis and spice flavors finish slightly raw in feel, with an oaky shading.
Candied berry aromas are jumpy, herbal and foxy. This has a raw pinched mouthfeel and minty herbal plum and berry flavors. On the finish, green elements rise to the level of herbaceous.
Candied berry aromas include a mild spice note. This 50-50 blend of Cabernet and Malbec feels juicy but short on depth. Spicy, briny red-fruit flavors dry out on a finish with red bell pepper and black-pepper notes.
Candied berry aromas lack crispness. This feels hard, with little give and depth to the palate. Burnt toasted berry flavors are hot and fall off on a clumsy finish.
Candied berry fruits are earthy but come with a note of sweet plastic. This feels grabby and firm, with palpable acidity. Salty plum and berry flavors finish warm and long due to lively acidity.
Candied black cherry and berry flavors are juxtaposed against dark char and toast in this slightly confected, easy drinking red. It's ripe and plush on the palate but briskly composed with a light, fresh finish. Drink now.
Candied black cherry and blueberry notes are accented by ginger on this slightly confected wine. The monotone red cherry palate leads to a hint of bitter tannins on the finish.
Candied black cherry and fresh boysenberry aromas meet with darker touches of soy, teriyaki and burnt caramel on the nose of this bottling. The palate is mineral-driven, with light tar, asphalt and peppercorn flavors leading into dusty elderberry fruit.
Candied black cherry aromas give this a sweet, rich outlook. The palate is bold and heavy, with ripe cassis and other heavy fruit flavors. It's a big, extracted wine that could use more balance and structure. To this taster, it seems denser and duller than past vintages. Frankly it's syrupy and chocolaty on the back palate and finish.
Candied black cherry aromas meet loam and fluffy chocolate cake scents on the nose of this bottling from Rick Grimm and winemaker Paul Lato, from a brand new vineyard above the Santa Ynez River. Black plum, black spice and more black cherry flavors show on the lush and intriguing palate, where the texture is grippy and the results promising.
Candied black cherry, crushed thyme, marjoram, peppercorn and smoked meat show on the nose of this bottling. The palate is very sweet, nearly treacly by sip two, showing concentrated strawberry juice and hoisin spice against a thick mouthfeel.
Candied blackberry aromas meld with tar, rosemary and fennel in this balanced and expertly ripe wine from one of the pioneering families in Temecula. It's dense on the palate, with charred black fruit, dried herb and wild desert-shrub flavors, its alcohol content deftly tucked away.
Candied blackberry, creosote and hot tar aromas fuel the nose of this Petit Verdot, a grape increasingly getting solo time in Central Coast bottles. It's thick on the palate, with smoked tobacco, peppery spice and cigar-like tannins.
Candied blueberry and syrupy aromas jump from the glass. The palate, however, is tangy and underdeveloped, with herbal, sharp flavors of boysenberry and black raspberry. Not a lot to the finish other than heat and licorice.
Candied blueberry aromas are fresh and suggest some power to come. Indeed, this wine is chunky on the palate, with grapy dark-fruit flavors that are generic but friendly. Made with carbonic maceration, this Toro is suggestive of Beaujolais.
Candied blueberry syrup, caramelized berries, lilac, shaved dark chocolate and cappuccino aromas show on the fresh nose of this bottling. Char and tar start the sip before purple-flower flavors arise against a background of sweeter blackberry.
Candied blueberry, vanilla bean, dried dill and anise make for a very approachable and layered nose on this bottling from winemaker Tim Kramer, a mentor to many in the region. Ripe black fruit, licorice spice and shaved chocolate show on the sip, where soft tannins and balanced acidity lead into a chalky finish.
Candied but also peppery and herbal, and without much depth or complexity. The palate is tight, acidic, sheering and tastes of snappy, edgy cherry and raspberry fruit. Then an oaky, vanilla dryness sets in. Solid and fresh, but hardly a head-turner.
Candied cherries, black plums, dried sage scrub and turned earth show on the nose of this bottling, which offers more rustic flair than other Zins. Once sipped, waves of crushed oregano, marjoram and dill take over, followed by red plum and touches of baked raspberry and boysenberry fruit.
Candied cherry and berry aromas abound on the nose of this dry rosé, but the palate is surprisingly elegant. Pristine red cherry and raspberry flavors are fresh and bright, accented by savory, slightly bitter hints that lend nuance to the finish.
Candied cherry and plum aromas are light and not that convincing. This is a wiry, choppy, light-bodied red with tart, juicy plum and raspberry flavors. A short yet fresh finish hollows out quickly.
Candied cherry and plum aromas come with a floral note and a hint of citrus peel. The body is a bit sticky and resiny, while a flavor of herbal cherry comes with a lactic, resiny angle. The finish is dry, peppery and resiny.
Candied cherry and raspberry aromas are dilute by Mendoza standards. The palate is regular at best, with juicy generic flavors of plum and raspberry. This finishes raw in feel, with little depth of flavor.
Candied cherry and raspberry aromas introduce this dry but fruity rosé made from Merlot grapes. Medium bodied in style, it's a bit plush on the palate but with concentrated strawberry and maraschino-cherry flavors. The finish is pure and refreshing, ending with a kiss of cherry blossom.
Candied cherry and red-plum aromas precede an edgy palate and herbal flavors of plum and berry that are slightly hot and spicy. Raspberry and red-currant flavors on the finish are dilute.
Candied cherry and strawberry aromas are fruity but rudimentary. This young, no-oak Tempranillo feels gritty yet fresh, with black cherry and plum flavors that finish short and hollow.
Candied cherry and strawberry aromas are soft, artificial and not convincing. Jammy on the palate, this tastes dull, with a touch of raspberry fruit. Bitter notes and latex dominate a flat finish.
Candied cherry and tangerine are welcome flavors in this crisp, dry and exceptionally light and easy-drinking wine. It's bright and long-lasting in refreshment.
Candied cherry aromas are mildly rubbery and suggestive of nail polish. On the palate, this Malbec feels round, fair and balanced. Flavors of pasty fruit and oak accent red-fruit notes.
Candied cherry aromas are simple and sweet, while the young, jammy palate is clean, fresh and offers basic berry flavors. Finishes with some thickness, but overall this is the type of wine that we can recommend at $6.
Candied cherry, cola, brown sugar and toasty oak flavors give this Pinot an immediate deliciousness. Savory acidity and fine tannins add to the sense of balanced importance. While it isn't an ager, it is a dramatic Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir to drink now.
Candied cherry, cola, cinnamon and rose petal scents arise on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard on the eastern side of Santa Ynez. Red fruit and cinnamon are also present on the palate, which is framed by grippy tannins and ample acidity.
Candied cherry, cola, wild mint and anise swirl into a layered nose on this wine by a duo of relatively new winemakers, Ian Sergy and Zach Jarosz. Light coffee, clove-spiced berry juice and cinnamon-cherry flavors are on the heavily brown-spiced palate.
Candied cherry, crushed fennel, rosebuds, baking spice and baked blackberry show on the sweet-smelling nose of this single-vineyard Zin. Anise arises first on the palate, then more candied red-cherry elements and herbs. The texture is not complex, but the overall experience is nicely varied.
Candied cherry, fruit liqueur, caramel, licorice and dark chocolate open the bouquet of this beautiful riserva from Montalcino. The wine is lean and bright on the close with fresh acidity and bright cherry notes.
Candied citrus and flower notes accent this medium-bodied Malvasia. Racy acidity gives this wine cut and verve.
Candied cranberry and grape meet with light nutmeg, gingersnap cookies and wet slate on the rich, interesting nose of this wine by Lompoc-based Brian Loring. The palate is power-packed and spicy, with boysenberry, sandalwood, cedar, incense, star anise and black-tea touches.
Candied flavors of blackberries and cherries mark this dry, full-bodied Cab. It's an everyday sipper for easy fare, like burgers or pizza.
Candied fruit-punch aromas lead to a chunky palate that's low on finesse. Mildly bitter flavors of grape skins and red fruits finish similar, meaning O.K. but dull and heavy.
Candied fruit and caramel ride on the back of maple syrup, allspice and ground ginger. Marsala is for much more than cooking and you can try this wine with aged cheese or as an after-dinner drink.
Candied fruit and oak combine on the palate for a smooth ride in this medium-weight wine, priced attractively given the quality. A bittersweet hint of tobacco greets the finish.
Candied fruit aromas combine with fresh, jammy strawberry and cherry flavors for a light, almost sweet impression in this bright pink wine.
Candied fruit, caramel, smooth vanilla cream and apricot open the opulent bouquet of this beautifully made Riserva Chardonnay. Elena Walch produces one of the best, oak-aged expressions of the grape in Italy. It closes with creamy richness and persistence.
Candied fruit, cherries, blueberries and Christmas spice set the tone of this informal but pleasing red wine. It delivers thick tones of black fruit, mineral and a blast of power and intensity on the finish.
Candied fruit, cherry liqueur and a touch of Sherry shape a dense wine with a sour finish. The wine will probably taste too bitter if not paired with a soft, slightly sweet dish that makes use of cream or butter elements.
Candied fruit, prune and apricot notes open the bouquet of this deep, dark wine. The palate picks up speed thanks to the savory tones of cured meat and barbecue smoke. A much-needed point of acidity on the finish pulls the wine nicely together.
Candied ginger and licorice mark this dense, ripe Claret that offers subtle oak on the palate. Full bodied and robust, with layers of graphite, leather and dark chocolate, the 66% Merlot come from the producer's Lower Mountain Top vineyard block and the 29% Cabernet Sauvignon from its Rock Arch block. The remaining 5% is Petit Verdot.
Candied honeydew aromas are fairly light on this blend of 41% Viognier, 33% Grenache Blanc, 14% Marsanne and 12% Roussanne, and there is also a wet wool complexity to the nose. The palate focuses more on the tense texture than overt flavors, though there are touches of Anjou pear, mango and coconut.
Candied honeydew, lime, bubblegum and crushed chalk show on the nose of this bottling. The acidity is razor-sharp and the palate's squeaky-clean texture is compelling, with flavors of lemon-lime soda and grapefruit pith to round it out.
Candied lemon and lush tropical fruits start this Assyrtiko, Athiri blend from an established producer in northern Greece. Fresh, fun and slightly sweet on the palate, the wine has a softer, more feminine touch than many Greek whites. Great with lighter fare like salads and grilled seafood.
Candied lemon and rich blossom honey hit the brain with their lifted, intense scents. A touch of smoky stone can be glimpsed before the sweetness of the palate takes over. Here, a pleasantly bitter note edges the richness with welcome texture and bite. Candied-citrus notes swish across the palate, trailing blossom, honey, nectar and candied peel in their wake. The finish is fresh and clean.
Candied lemon peel, Asian pear and marzipan hints show on the slightly oxidative nose of this bottling from Jim Clendenen. Ripe apple and pear flavors mark the palate, along with a warm toast component, but a Meyer lemon tang and bitter orange accents cut the richness.
Candied lemon, beeswax and honey are wrapped in the sumptuous embrace of vanilla. Topnotes of passion fruit and nettle appear too, while the palate is conquered by the all-encompassing concentration of this TBA. The precise flavors have a bright, etched citrus frame that shapes and balances the sweetness. Apricot, bergamot, apple and passion fruit all make an appearance. Aromatically, the length goes on and on. It's delicious now, but should hold well through 2040, at least.
Candied lemon, tangerine and grapefruit zest flavors make for a deliciously refreshing and complex experience in this well-made wine. The bright palate is accented by tropical fruit and is acid-driven yet weighty in feel.
Candied lemongrass, cut apple, wet cement, lime peel and warmer peach notes show on the nose of this very typical and likable bottling. Flavors are rounded on the palate, with tropical notes of peach, mango and pear custard.
Candied lime and lemon zest are bathed in the rich honey notes of full-blown botrytis. This lifted scent is more than heady and continues intensely on the lusciously sweet palate. Candied quince and mandarin peel run circles round honeycomb and apricot jam which swirls around your brain like a psychedelic dream in all its apricot glory. There is something otherworldly about this wine, something ambrosial and decadent, made all the more so by its apparent weightlessness. What a triumph.
Candied macadamia nut, ripe pear and toasted marshmallow aromas may sound over the top, but they're all in balance in this bottling. The palate is tangy with mandarin and lemon skin accents that give depth to the toasted almond and beeswax flavors.
Candied mandarin peel and apricot join the rose-petal flavors that meet on an unctuous, rich palate. Residual sweetness gives this considerable heft but the overall balance is there, with a soft-focus finish that carries both fruit and spice.
Candied melon and peach aromas lead to a creamy, woody palate that's somewhat flat in feel and short on acidity. Flavors include vanilla, cream, spicy oak and soft apple fruit. It's spicy and barrel driven on the finish.
Candied mint and brine on the nose are followed by pineapple and white peach fruit on the palate. An interplay of brisk acidity and exotic fruit give it a distinctive character. Pair with grilled fish, spicy cuisine.
Candied oak aromas smell like sweet plastic and rubber, while berry scents lurk below. This is blocky and a bit sticky in feel, with basic plum and berry flavors that finish with a pasty accent.
Candied on one hand but also gassy, barnyardy and less than clean and pure on the other. A basic mouthfeel is probably the high point, while flavors of underdeveloped berry fruit are more salty and leathery than anything. Fails to impress.
Candied peach and apricot aromas meld with dusty pollen and saffron on the nose. Showing a bit more ripeness on the palate, pineapple and mango tones appear, with wildflower honey and ginger spice offering nuance. Vibrant acidity drives the palate and follows through to a lingering floral finish.
Candied peach, melon and grape notes are sweet and simple in this fruity white wine. Made from Diamond, a Concord-grape hybrid, with just a splash of Riesling, it's forward and easy but finishes with a crush of sweet-tart citrus. Drink now.
Candied pineapple, spun sugar, ripe key lime peels and lemongrass show on the nose of this stainless steel-aged wine. The expected crispness shows on the sip as does an energetic and lively acidity, though the honeysuckle and lemon syrup flavors trend toward sweetness.
Candied plum and red berry aromas smell like red licorice. Flavors are raisiny, with sourness and astringency.
Candied raspberry and plum aromas are ripe and simple. This feels quite tannic and rubbery, while flavors of cherry, mixed berries and chocolate convey a sense of sweetness. A fresh but rough finish clocks this out.
Candied raspberry aromas and a racy, acidic, crisp feel tell you what's coming: pie-cherry tartness and then a sizzle-and-pop finish that's fresh but astringent.
Candied red-fruit aromas are friendly but not that concentrated or dark. This medium-bodied Monastrell shows mild red-fruit flavors of cherry and plum. Candied plum and cherry flavors finish it off.
Candied red-fruit aromas are thin and limited. This is edgy, rubbery and tannic in feel, with rudimentary raspberry and red-plum flavors. A juicy finish is lean and tastes medicinal.
Candied red-fruit aromas suggest notes of bath soap. This is foamy and full in the mouth, with short plum and cherry flavors. Candied notes are reprised on the finish, which is abrupt but clean.
Candied red and black cherries, vanilla cookies, crushed stones and sweet kirsch aromas show on the nose of this red blend. The palate starts with brick and baked red-plum flavors, followed by waves of aniseseed, roasted fennel and fresh oregano. It's complex with cooked fruits.
Candied red and purple fruit meets mocha and cola spice on the nose of this bottling, which is approachable and simple. The palate is tart with cranberry and plum skin flavors, lifted by dried ginger spice.
Candied red cherries mix with eucalyptus oil on the nose of this bottling that also offers an intriguingly feral aroma of pine needles smashed into wet earth. There is great depth on the sip, with stewed cranberries and strawberries, graphite minerality and then more eucalyptus, pine needles and sharp forest herbs.
Candied red cherry fruit meets wild herb and wet slate aromas on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard planted in 1988. Boisterous acidity kicks off the palate, where raspberry and tart strawberry fruit flavors lead to round red plum and a slate-like rockiness. The finish is bright with acidity.
Candied red cherry, mulberry, lilac, kola nut and dark sandalwood show on the lush nose of this bottling. The palate is wound tightly around a tense structure and bright but not overpowering acidity, revealing flavors of allspice, dark red fruit and hints of juniper.
Candied red fruits of raspberry and pomegranate meet with rhubarb pie, sweet thyme and ripe tomato on the nose of this bottling by a San Francisco accountant-turned-vintner. It's supple and soft on the palate, with more tomato flavors as well as fennel pollen and tarragon.
Candied slightly cooked strawberry and cherry notes permeate through this ripe ruddy off-dry rosé. Made from Pinot Meunier, it finishes with a whisper of dried savory thyme and lavender notes. Drink now.
Candied strawberry and grassy aromas unfold on the nose. On the palate, this blend of Monastrell and Pinot Noir feels heavy. A mix of candied red-fruit flavors and weedy notes finish short.
Candied strawberry fruit and a touch of lemon peel make for a fairly mellow nose on this bottling, named after winemaker Adam Comartin's daughter. There is a sizzle of acidity, a grippy texture and clean lines of sour cherry flavor on the palate, which holds its tension deep into the finish.
Candied white-fruit aromas are generic and rudimentary. This feels flat and doesn't show much life on the palate. Flavors of canned pear, oak and related spice finish bland.
Candied yellow apples, sweet honeydew and very ripe Bosc pears show on the nose of this bottling. Tropical flavors of guava and tuberose dominate the sip, proving a tad thick and fruity.
Candied, dark and murky on the nose, then narrow, clampy and tannic in the mouth. Flavors are herbal, while the fruit content is sweet blackberry and black plum. Short and hollow on the finish, which leaves a grapey residue.
Candied, dusty aromas turn sweet and soapy if given time. The sugary feel to the palate stops just short of cloying, while candied raspberry, watermelon and brown sugar flavors end with milk chocolate and sweet red-fruit notes.
Candied, flat aromas of cherry and red licorice announce a chunky palate, with sweet plum, raspberry and brown sugar flavors. Drink now.
Candied, grassy aromas set up a dilute palate with green, almost weedy red-fruit flavors. The finish tastes like grape skins, with an animal-like side note.
Candied, jammy raspberry, cherry and white chocolate flavors mark this simple blend, based on Cabernet Sauvignon. Soft in tannins and acidity, it's easy to drink with burgers, lasagna, or for something different, figs and gorgonzola cheese.
Candied, jammy red-fruit aromas come with a whiff of animal fur. This feels standard at best, loose and flabby at worst. Raspberry, plum and grapy flavors finish plump and fruity but with no real complexity.
Candied, medicinal berry aromas come with notes of wet cement, latex and cinnamon. Sweet, sugary plum and berry flavors taste jammy, and the wine feels soupy and tastes sweet on the finish.
Candied, oaky aromas of clove outmuscle foxy berry scents. This blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cab Sauvignon is heavy, tannic and ultimately a bit overweight and flabby. Clove, wood spice and cooked berry flavors finish with baking spice and woody notes.
Candied, slightly volatile red-berry aromas are topped with chocolaty oak. In the mouth, this is simple and medium-bodied. Salty berry and plum flavors are just ripe enough before this falls off on the finish.
Candied, tutti-frutti aromas give this a sweet, somewhat faux bouquet with little concentration. But the palate is chewy and grabby enough, with solid but modest raspberry and red plum flavors. Mellow on the finish, with a decent feel. Good but not distinguished. Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Candied—almost confected—red fruit shimmers on the nose. On the palate, this turns into fleshy aromatic red cherry that carries immediate charm. The palate is light, refreshing and full of easy fruit. The finish is clean and reinforces that lovely cherry note.
Candle wax and pollen notes lend a slightly earthy tone to fresh lemon and lime in this off-dry Riesling. Crisp and citrusy, it finishes briskly with bracing darts of lime zest and cocktail bitters.
Candy-pink in color, this soft, fruity wine has ripe strawberry flavors that are lifted by acidity. The aftertaste, rounded and perfumed, is fresh although not crisp.
Candy floss and mandarin on the nose suggest a fun, easy wine and the palate keeps the promise. This is a soft, easy, dry Gewurztraminer with a wonderfully slick mouthfeel and some phenolic grip. It's rich but presents a tight body.
Candylike oak aromas and flavors dominate this full-bodied and rather tannic wine. It smells and tastes like vanilla, fresh-sawn oak and maple syrup. Some ripe plum flavors in the background are nearly sweet.
Canella's pocketbook-friendly Prosecco opens with drying tones of talcum powder, citrus and tangerine. The mouthfeel is cheerful, lean, informal and crisp.
Canella's Prosecco Superiore shows a heavier style with aromas of apricot and peach syrup follow by honey and butterscotch. The wine feels waxy and creamy on the close.
Canned cranberry sauce and Indian spices collide on the nose. Light in color, it feels tad sweet once sipped, thanks to juicy flavors of strawberry and cherry.
Canned fruit—both peach and pineapple—show good depth against a slightly smoky backdrop. Round and silky on the palate, there's a balance of acid to give brightness.
Canned lychee and lemongrass feels a bit thick and heavy on the nose. The palate follows suit and is medium in weight, yet lags a little in acidic verve.
Canned peach, banana and lilting white-flower aromas show some good concentration on the nose. The palate is playful and textured, with a pop of tropical fruit on the entry and more florals on the midpalate. A peach-fuzz texture tingles on the close.
Canned pears and plumeria show on the nose of this bargain-priced offering, worthy of a weeknight dinner or later in the evening. The palate shows lots of ripe stone fruit, apple syrup and tangy citrus, the finish delivering a lasting acidity.
Cannubi is regarded as perhaps the finest vineyard cru in Barolo, delivering clean and elegant wines with power and determination on the finish. This expression stays true to the vineyard, with added touches of soft fruit and spice to the mix.
Canoe Ridge Vineyard is the warmer of the winery's two single-vineyard Chardonnay sites. Straw, spice and stone-fruit aromas lead to a full-bodied palate, loaded with ripe peach and tropical-fruit flavors. It provides lots of appeal, along with exquisite balance.
Cantaloupe and spice aromas are followed by light tart fruit flavors that linger. The flavors are quite elegant but it shows a lovely sense of balance.
Cantaloupe aromas lead to a fresh palate with snap. Nectarine and tangerine flavors run lean and clean on their way to a juicy, no-nonsense finish.
Cantaloupe melon and white peach set the stage aromatically. The wine follows through to the palate with fresh crispness and a clean, compact style.
Cantina del Nebbiolo is a cooperative winery with 175 members. This gorgeous base Barbaresco has been shaped by light wood influences that are integrated so well, they appear only as aromatic highlights over the wine's rich fruit component. There's spice, cinnamon and clove and the wine's mouthfeel is rich and continuous.
Cantina del Pino is a true manufacturer of delight and magic. This pristine, elegant but mature Barbaresco is a prime example of this vintner's exciting potential. Aromas of jammy berry, cola, cedar and smoke are carefully layered and stacked tall. Open in 5–10 years.
Cantina del Pino makes some of the finest Barbaresco available today. This shows a succulent quality, with aromas of smoked bacon, wild berries and forest underbrush. Savory and sophisticated, this has loads of personality.
Cantina Tre Serre is a well-priced and informal Barbera with a thin and informal style backed by fruity freshness. There's even a tiny touch of effervescence that adds a perky and peppery sensation to the mouthfeel.
Cantine Barbera has produced a beautiful Passito dessert wine that shows feminine harmony and balance. The natural intensity is here; Aromas of apricot, honey, candied fruit and almond paste emerge with confidence from the nose. In the mouth, the wine is particularly sweet and smooth.
Cantine Barbera presents a classic but simple expression of Nero d'Avola with an easy nose of cherry, raw fruit and white almond skin. The mouthfeel is bright and compact and shows a touch of sour fruit as well.
Cúmaro Riserva is a gorgeous wine that offers rich notes of ripe fruit and chocolate, followed by leather, tobacco and exotic spice. Its smooth chocolate richness that sets this wine apart.
Caparzo's lush and full 75-25 blend of Chardonnay and Traminer is faithfully representative of a white wine from Tuscany. You'll get aromas of peach and passion fruits backed by warm tones of vanilla and mature melon.
Caparzo delivers a consistent and clean expression of Brunello year after year. This shows a touch of bright acidity, formed thanks to a cooler than average growing season, and is backed by aromas of forest fruit and cola. Full flavors of tobacco and spice carry the wine smoothly over the palate.
Caparzo delivers a killer Rosso di Montalcino from one of the most anticipated vintages of the past 10 years. It is intense and clean, with polished berry aromas of black cherry and red currant that are backed by savory spice and leather.
Capellanes waded through some weak efforts in 2002 and 2003, but this vintage marks undisputed excellence for a reserva. The wine has alluring smoky, sultry notes to match its bold fruit, while the flavors of blackberry, dark spice and chocolate announce perfect raw material and a deft winemaking hand, i.e. controlled oak. Delicious now through 2014.
Caper berry, turned earth, blistered cherry tomato and puttanesca sauce aromas lead the nose on this top-end Pinot from Bill Foley's eponymous winery. It's wildly flavorful on the palate, offering perfectly ripe red fruit alongside woody herbs of oregano, thyme and rosemary, then leading into darkly elegant elements of black licorice, cardamom and chai spices.
Caper flower and green olive take center stage, leaving a small margin of fruit-related aromas. Because of this wine's unique bouquet, you should pair it with Sicilian eggplant caponata or any dish involving capers or olives.
Capitalizing on the fashion for Malbec, this wine is closer to Argentina than Cahors. It has soft tannins and a ripe and juicy flavor of red-berry fruits. Acidity and a soft aftertaste reinforce this New World feel.
Capo Soprano Nero d'Avola delivers black olive and fresh capers backed by jammy fruit and hickory spice. The wine has a sweet, raw feel and would pair well with easy red meat recipes or fried pork chops.
Caprai's luminous Grechetto from central Italy is full-bodied and opulent and offers layers of honey, stone fruit, yellow rose and vanilla cream. The wine has power and persistency thanks to its natural density and richness.
Caprili brings us a beautifully elegant and shapely Brunello that is enhanced by plump cherry and wild berry nuances. Subdued tones of vanilla and spice add a nice touch of zest on the long finish.
Captivating wild berry, rose, chopped herb and baking spice aromas take center stage in this earthy, stunning wine. The palate mirrors the nose in vibrancy, delivering tight layers of wild cherry, star anise and white pepper notes. Fresh acidity and firm, refined tannins provide a polished framework. It's loaded with finesse and already delicious, but hold for even more complexity. Drink 2020–2032.
Captivating, with zesty lemon and wet stones on the nose, followed by a complex medley of citrus, passionfruit and carnations on the palate. The wine finishes well, with punchy notes of lime marmalade and dry chalk. Try with smoked trout. Drink now for its vibrant fruit or lay down for a few years for more honeyed depth.
Capture continues to make progress in interpreting their vineyard located in this new appellation, a high elevation overlooking Alexander Valley. Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux-style blend is young now, with hard tannins that interfere with the fruit. The fruit is intensely concentrated with cherry compote and cassis flavors, while new oak's vanilla and toast are proportionate to the wine's volume. A worthy followup to the 2009, and a wine to cellar for 8–10 years, if not longer.
Captures Syrah's wild and woolly side, with jammy, wild berry flavors that taste fresh from the fermenter. The acidity is sharp, almost green, and there are stemmy, chlorophyll notes. From 3-year- old vines. Shows promise, but the vines need age, and the wine needs tweaking. —S.H.
Captures the essence of a Paso Robles red wine. It's softly complex, smooth and deliciously dry, with blackberry, chocolate and oak flavors. The blend is Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Captures the essence of Russian River Chard with its crisp acids that boost and brighten an explosion of taste. The tropical fruit and spice flavors are enriched by toasty oak, while sur lie aging adds a creaminess to the texture of this deliciously dry wine.
Captures the purity of Santa Ynez Sauvignon Blanc with laser-sharp lemon, lime, pineapple and gooseberry flavors. The acidity is wonderful. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in neutral oak barrels to give it just a touch of smoke.
Capturing the dense essence of Petite Sirah, this marries deep berry flavor to a highlight of Bourbon-soaked chocolate. It's not overly sweet, but it's definitely a dessert wine.
Cara Mia, or “my beloved,” is a fresh and thin red wine that could pair with grilled hamburgers and hotdogs at the park. Fresh cherry and raspberry are followed by a slightly bitter endnote.
Carabella's tasty, toasty take on Pinot Gris is a blend of two clones, mostly fermented in stainless steel, but with a third of it fermented in neutral oak. The resulting wine is elegant and complex, a mix of white peach and pear, toasted hazelnuts and butterscotch. Simply delicious.
Caramel-laced buttercream, marshmallow, cotton candy and sweet almond milk show on the nose of this bottling, named after one of Bill Foley's daughters. It's fairly light in body on the sprightly palate, where burnt marshmallow and vanilla flavors reign over the citrus elements.
Caramel and baked-apple aromas are nutty and not pushy. This is crisp, with hard-hitting acidity. Flavors of orange peel, toffee and oxidized white fruits finish nutty, much like walnut oil. This is a fine Sherry but it's a bit tangy and high in acid.
Caramel and butter dominate the flavor mix, imparting the suggestion of movie popcorn and buttered toast, partially balanced by crisp pineapple and citrus fruit.
Caramel and light grassy aromas amount to a standard bouquet. This is soft and innocuous in feel, with somewhat low acidity. Toffee and sautéed mushroom flavors come in front of a typical but bland finish with mild oxidation.
Caramel and maple aromas are welcoming and fresh but not sophisticated. This has a simple mouthfeel along with flavors of coffee, mocha and chocolate. A nutty, short finish is smooth and tasty but devoid of complexity.
Caramel and red-fruit aromas are followed by a soft-texture candy and fruity taste backed by acidity. Drink now.
Caramel and ripe red fruits show the weight of this wine. It has freshness from the warm plum flavors along with ripe accents of spice and pepper. The end has tangy acidity. Bordeaux Clairet lies between rosé and red in color and in taste.
Caramel and soft berry fruits characterize this pleasant and fresh wine. It has flavors of red berries along with vanilla  to round it out. Easy Pinot, drink now.
Caramel and soft fruits in a wine that seems to be missing the zesty, crisp element. The wine feels flat.
Caramel and strawberry aromas lead to a ripe, while still, crisp crushed red berry wine. Good acidity, a light just off-dry texture.
Caramel and vanilla aromas, the palate rounded, poised, with pear and green plum flavors, along with lively acidity, filled out with toast.
Caramel and vanilla provide a richness and influence of barrel from the nose, before crisp apple delivers itself on the palate. Stony minerality keeps the wine fresh and vibrant, finishing with a touch of ginger.
Caramel and vanilla wrap around generously ripe flavors of apple, pear and tropical papaya. Entirely fermented in oak, its wood provides a medium-bodied mouthfeel and ample accents of sweetness and spice.
Caramel and white-chocolate aromas lead to very ripe, buttery flavors, a sense of sweetness and an almost thick texture in this full-bodied wine. Practically as rich and creamy as a milkshake, it will delight some drinkers for its unctuousness.
Caramel apple and honeyed, biscuity notes combine, layering richness upon richness in this single vineyard wine. A full-bodied, concentrated expression, its darker elements are complemented by an underlay of Key lime that provides a respite of freshness.
Caramel apple and toffee tones introduce this wine's inherent luxuriousness and richness, its intensity particularly pronounced on the nose. Vanilla crème brûlée flavors are layered with anise as the finish finds its balance.
Caramel apple meets high-toned acidity in this balanced, medium-bodied white that's brightened with salty lemon accents. It finishes long, with nuanced nutmeg and vanilla notes.
Caramel aromas give this wine a rich, full and almost sweet character. It has weight, a warm feel cut with pear and quince acidity. It needs to be drunk now.
Caramel aromas lead to a wine that is rich and full bodied. It has weight and concentration, along with fresh acidity that cuts through at the end. A good sense of minerality gives this wine extra texture. Drink from 2017.
Caramel aromas lead to a wine that is soft, ripe and rich. It has sweetness, a generous texture and ripe spicy fruits. Tantalizing hints of honey go with the smooth yellow fruits and opulent character. It's still young for a wine of this stature, so drink from 2017.
Caramel flavor and ripe red fruits give this organic Malbec (60%) and Merlot (40%) blend some weight. Pink in color, it has ripe crushed strawberry flavors and light acidity at the end. Drink now.
Caramel oak meets thick tar and sticky tannin in this robust wine from the mountain appellation. Dark brooding fruit is seasoned in minty earth and forest floor.
Caramel toasted oak contributes a concentrated richness to this full-bodied expression of the coast—a dark brooding offering of baked cherry and cola spice. Underlying acidity and specks of forest floor contribute brightness and complexity that pair well with the fruit.
Caramel, oak and intensely ripe mango and peach flavors mark this Chardonnay. It's simple and straightforward, but pleasant drinking.
Caramel, peach custard, caramelized apple, baked Asian pear and cinnamon show on the lavish nose of this bottling. Orange Creamsicle notes mark the palate, where rounded, baked Gala apples meet with a touch of walnut oil. Somehow just enough acidity and depth is integrated into this rich style.
Caramel, toffee and spice aromas are good but standard. This feels tight and comfortable but it doesn't dance across your palate. Flavors of toasted nuts, salt and briny stone fruits finish nutty but without complexity.
Caramelized apple and honey remain subtle enough to keep this wine balanced and restrained, a graceful representation of the true Sonoma Coast. From an estate vineyard, the wine shines in acidity with a mineral touch, offering a medium body with layers of crisp texture and a lingering, ripe pear-like finish.
Caramelized apples and toasted squash-seed aromas arise from this wine, which offers good zing but a more oxidized style on the palate. Flavors of nut-based syrups, dried citrus and slightly sour orange juice arise once sipped.
Caramelized black currant and dark tobacco leaf aromas make for a rich nose in this bottling from the longtime family producer. The palate packs elderberry and dried violet flavors, with pencil shaving, charred wood and smoky touches. The tannins are full and firm.
Caramelized black plum, teriyaki, pepper and graphite scents combine for a rich, nuanced and inviting nose on this bottling. There is beefy depth to the palate, suggesting roasted meat, hoisin sauce, plum, dried herbs and peppercorn, all unfolding in layers.
Caramelized blackberries, black plum, lilacs and milk chocolate make for a nicely rounded nose. Baked blackberry and blueberry meet with vanilla and oak flavors on the palate, which is held up by solid tannins.
Caramelized blackberry, beef jerky and sweet tar arise on the nose of this bottling. The palate shows vanilla, blackberry, blueberry and a touch of asphalt. The tannins are a bit scattered, but the pepper spice is nice.
Caramelized blueberry and a sweet cedar woody aroma makes for a very inviting nose on this bottling from regional pioneer Gary Eberle. The palate is full of flavor, with blackberry syrup, balsamic fig vinaigrette and cola spice. A judicious acidity holds it all together.
Caramelized blueberry, crushed pepper and a deeply hidden dried green herb component present on the dense nose of this bottling, which hides the grapes typicity a tad yet remains delicious. The palate rides a nice line between smoked beef, chocolate and balsamic reduction and the expected peppery and herbal edges.
Caramelized chocolate and dust line the drive of this robustly ripe and concentrated red, that's ultimately unfussy in its approach. Soft in texture, it finishes in a strong grip of tannin.
Caramelized meats, dark cherry fruits, tar and pencil lead elements emerge on the nose of this bottling. The flavors are reminiscent of charred beef, with charcoal, turned earth and dark chocolate set against dried blueberry background.
Caramelized oak and honey give this estate wine an undeniable richness offset by a streak of rocky minerality. Smooth in texture, it's plush, lush and robustly full bodied, accented by green apple and melon. It celebrates a warm site, warm vintage and meticulous winemaking.
Caramelized oak and ripe apple provide rich texture and flavor that find ideal companionship in this wine's more rocky minerality and salty tang. Medium bodied, it's a food-friendly find, with ample structure and apple and pear flavor.
Caramelized oak and tangerine jam flavors give this Chardonnay a honeyed sweetness that would appeal consumers who enjoy modern-style wines. The high alcohol gives it a peppery burn.
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.
Caramelized oak and vanilla make for a thick, rich and buttery experience in this bold, but balanced wine. Juicy and tempered, it exudes passionfruit and lime in abundance, with a seasoning of fennel and dried herb. Drink now through 2020.
Caramelized oak finds a companion in tangy acidity in this full-bodied, lushly concentrated white from various vineyard sources. A taste of baked pear gives it a richness that veers on sweet upfront before it opens and expands on the palate into a broader spectrum of rounded texture and a lilt of anise.
Caramelized oak makes a statement in this wine that starts out richly and roundly, but finds a sense of balanced acidity in the glass. Medium bodied, it features classic notes of Meyer lemon and Gravenstein apple.
Caramelized white peach, salted lemon, pear skin, red apple and the hint of white flowers show on the nose of this wine by these longtime but under-the-radar producers. The palate blends orange skins and grapefruit pith with buttered toast, sea salt and a dill-like herb character.
Carbonic freshness lurks on the palate of this appellation wine, dotted in strawberry jam, lavender and rose characteristics. Lightly textured and built, it finishes soft and smooth.
Carbonic maceration is the fermentation technique employed in this wine. It brings out vibrant Bing-cherry flavors and with a hint of bread dough. There are interesting highlights of cured meats also. This is a good choice for drinking with roasted birds.
Cardamom and vanilla lend warmth and spice to fresh black cherry and blueberry flavors in this sprightly wine. It's rich and ripe in fruit concentration, but delicately textured with a brisk, spry finish.
Cardomam seed and Indian spice give this wine a sassy and exotic personality. There's also plenty of plush fruit here as well followed by dry notes of crushed mineral at the back.
Careful winemaking balances the fruit and oak perfectly in this lovely, medium-weight wine. It's polished and steely, with just-ripe apple and pear fruit, braced with racy, lemony acidity and a streak of minerality. It was fermented in 100% French oak, one sixth new.
Careful winemaking has saved this blend from the hot vintage, preserving its vibrant aromas of red fruit, lavender flower, blueberry and almond. In fact, the wine manages to be delicate in fragrance and approach. Drink now.
Careful work has been done here to craft a creamy and smooth cool-climate Chardonnay with long aromatic staying power. You'll recognize fragrant tones of white rose, citrus blossom and almond flower.
Carefully aged in oak casks, this hearty Aglianico shows complexity and brawn, with bold notes of black fruit, spice and leather. Tightly firm tannins give it long staying power.
Carefully distinguished from the other Lange Pinots, this cuvée marries thick cherry fruit to highlights of cola, anise and earth. The winery's defining trait is crafting wines with impeccable balance, that are already seamless and highly approachable upon release, yet have the style and substance for cellaring over the next 8–10 years.
Carefully made, but seems a bit dilute. Light and quite tart fruit flavors suggest rhubarb and cranberry; there are also hints of coffee grounds and smoke, though no new oak was used.
Caressed in forested earthiness, this wine is both crisp in acidity and creamy in baked apple and crème brûlée, a layering of lemon meringue on top. It is integrated and balanced up until the finish, where a firm grip of oak takes hold.
Carignan (70%) takes the lead on this one-of-a-kind-in-the-state wine. It offers aromas of bramble, assorted vegetables and piercing purple fruit. The flavors are light and elegant, fresh and pure, trailing toward the finish.
Carignan takes the lead here, composing roughly two-thirds of the blend. Young, tart, still primary and chewy on the palate, this subtle, expressive wine displays an underlying minerality backing pie cherry fruit.
Carignan, Grenache, Cinsault, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre and Pinot Noir make up this mongrel blend. The wine is dry and quite complex in berry, leather, cola, currant, spice and cedar flavors, although it's very soft. Not going anywhere, so drink now.
Carignane likes Mendocino. This wine is dusty and soft in plums and smoky blackberry fruit. Having been aged in neutral French oak, the wine is soft and round, offering a taste of tobacco on the finish.
Carignane was once one of California's most prominent grapes, and this bottling shows intriguing aromas of spearmint and sagebrush set across a red fruit background. The minty and distinctive palate also boasts black pepper and licorice, with brambly red and purple fruits.
Carillon opens with a dark, concentrated appearance and smoky aromas of barbecue, spice and toasted oak. The fruit element comes forth on the palate, revealing the wine's bright cherry and crème de cassis notes.
Carl Bowker makes some excellent wines from his estate, and this blend of 56% Viognier, 22% Grenache Blanc and 22% Roussanne is reliable though not flashy. Notes of sour lemon and green apple skins hit the nose first, followed by bitter sesame and lime juice on the palate, which leans a tad too sour.
Carmel is the key player on the nose; it persists on the palate, where a hearty helping of zingy citrus flavors nicely balance the carmelly sweetness. Finishes with pear, citrus and toast.
Carmione is a 50-10-40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot that opens with a bright bouquet of wild spice, black fruit, prune, plum and rum cake. The wine is dense and dark with a thick, almost gritty feel in the mouth. This is a bruiser that would pair with mesquite-grilled ribeye steak.
Carmo was formerly owned by the Rothschild family of Château Lafite. In this now maturing 2009 selection, there is a firm character, leavened by dried fruits, dark berries and some smooth woody characters. It's a wine to drink now, or age for 2–3 more years.
Carneros brings its cool touch to this Merlot in the form of zesty acidity and a body as light and silky as Pinot Noir. The flavors, of ripe red raspberries sprinkled with cinnamon, anise and brown sugar, are elaborate and focused.
Carneros is really the perfect place to grow Albarino, due to its cool climate that lets the grapes ripen yet preserves vital acidity. This is really a fine example. It's juicy in acidity and dry in green apples and limes, with a touch of white flower and a hint of toasty oak.
Carneros isn't ideal for Cabernet, as it's too cool. Even in this hot vintage, Truchard's '04 bottling has an unripe, vegetal streak beside the cassis, chocolate and new oak flavors.
Carneros seems too cool to ripen Zin, and so it is with this wine, which is rather green and minty. But it's streamlined and clean, with pleasant sour cherry, anise and cinnamon spice flavors.
Carneros shows its hand in the brisk acidity, surprisingly light body and herbal notes of this Pinot Noir. It feels delicate in structure and finishes dry, with a hint of raspberry cookie richness.
Carob, sour cherry, bramble, leafy greens and exotic spice are some of the eclectic aromatic components of this wine's bright bouquet. The more you sniff, the more you get pipe tobacco, forest fruit and blackberry. The mouthfeel is firm, tonic and compact.
Carpineto's Vino Nobile Riserva is almost too much of a good thing with its rich density, bold intensity and big aromas of ripe blackberry, leather, exotic spice and tobacco. It has smooth texture and polished tannins as well. Age 10 years or more.
Carpineto consistently delivers clean, territory-driven wines at competitive prices. This lively Vernaccia opens with green apple, cut grass and dried sage aromas. It would pair nicely with a heaping plate of fried calamari rings.
Carpineto offers a uniquely floral Chianti Classico (90/10 Sangiovese and Canaiolo) with aromas that recall violets, lavender and sweet jasmine. You'll also get cherry cough drop or cinnamon spice smoothed over the wine's lean texture and no-fuss appeal.
Cartizze is a tiny swath of vertical vineyard at the heart of Valdobbiadene that is said to make the best Prosecco. The wine usually comes in a Dry expression (meaning it's a tiny bit sweeter) and this example is indeed deeply redolent of peach and honeysuckle.
Cartizze is the most celebrated vineyard cru in the Prosecco area and this expression lives up to its reputation very nicely. It offers delicate floral and mineral tones that create a smooth, feminine personality.
Carves a path right down the center of Marlborough's stylistic fairway, featuring hints of bell pepper, stone fruit and wet-stone minerality. It's medium in body, with flavors of nectarine, herbal flourishes and a dry, stony finish. Drink now.
Casa Silva is a pioneer in the chilly Paredones region, but it has taken them a few years to get this wine right. In 2014, it's there. Dusty, round, briny citrus aromas are not overly pungent or spiky. This is tangy and citric on the palate, but not unfriendly. Lime, gooseberry and sour orange flavors finish long and true.
Casablanca is the new source for this winery's Sauvignon Blanc, which smells prickly and spicy, with lychee and melon notes. Feels smooth, fleshy and round, with green flavors of lime and lychee offset by mild bitterness. Peppery on the finish.
Casal di Serra is a fantastic Italian white that should be served at every salad bar or light lunch establishment you can think of. The wine sees contact with the lees for a creamy texture and offers aromas of peach, dried hay and pear. It's easy-drinking and fresh.
Casale del Giglio is making a very good reputation for itself thanks in part to this hearty Shiraz. The wine delivers typical aromas of crushed white pepper, blackberry and clove and it offers roasted espresso bean and chocolate covered cherry on the close.
Casale del Giglio, from the Lazio region in central Italy, exports what may well be Italy's only 100% expression of Petit Manseng. The wine is fragrant and ripe with pretty tones of peach blossom, jasmine and honeysuckle.
Casale Vecchio is a dark and spicy expression of Montepulciano that opens with sweet aromas of jammy fruit and blackberry preserve. Layers of moist pipe tobacco, new leather and crushed granite or mineral form a nicely integrated finish.
Casalino's Brunello is a dark, pleasurable wine enhanced by warm richness, mineral notes, toasted almond and sweet black cherry. The general smoothness and fullness of the texture is what sets this wine apart.
Casanuova delle Cerbaie presents a mature Brunello that shows signs of the hot 2003 vintage. The wine is ripe with aromas of black cherry and blackberry preserves with warm tones of leather and spice.
Casas del Bosque makes some of the most pungent, expressive Sauvignon Blancs in Chile. This vintage fits the blueprint; it's forward, punchy and full of passion fruit, white grapefruit and tarragon on both the bouquet and palate. Shows mineral components, saline and scallion on the finish. A high-quality wine with a commensurate price tag.
Cascabel means “rattlesnake,” and this one bites with rich, heady, raisiny aromas that suggest a slightly cooked, hot wine. Raspberry, plum, spice and salty notes define the flavor profile, while licorice, dry spice and heat show up on the racy finish of this full-bodied striker.
Cascades of fresh white grapefruit and pineapple take center stage in this invigorating dry Riesling. Nimble-footed and delicate in texture, it extends long on a rippling mineral undertone. Drink now through 2020.
Cascina Adelaide's wines always stand out in a crowd thanks to the spicy oak elements this vintner proudly displays. Barolo Preda follows suit and opens with sweet clove and cinnamon backed by red cherry, cassis and prune. It's a luscious, soft and textured wine that can be consumed soon (in 3–5 years) or aged longer in your cellar.
Cascina Ballarin's Barolo Bricco Rocca comes from the La Morra area of the Langhe and offers intense aromas of blue flower, violets, almond flowers, cinnamon and powdered licorice. The focus here is on elegance and harmony and the mouthfeel follows through with power and determination. This is a truly beautiful wine
Cascina del Monastero's base Barolo shows simple fruit tones and offers an easy, straight shooter approach overall. You'll get aromas of wild berry, cola and spice and the wine is firm and compact on the close. In all, it comes off as an informal interpretation of one of the world's greatest wines.
Cascina delle Rose is one of the denomination's brightest gems and its Rio Sordo is a textbook Barbaresco. It has an alluring and multifaceted bouquet of lilac, violet and wisteria, along with hints of spice, truffle and earth. The palate is focused, with intense cherry and spice notes balanced by firm but fine tannins and freshness. It already shows ample complexity and will age beautifully.
Cascina Ferrero is a beautiful and linear wine with cooling acidity and lingering aromas of chopped herb, redwood, leather, tobacco, old spice, cola, linseed oil and balsam notes. This is a very vertical and buoyant wine that would pair well with fatty foods such as roast suckling pig. It evolves nicely in the mouth to offer polished tannins and a firm close.
Cascina La Ghersa offers a complete picture of the Barbera grape through its Vignassa line of wines. This successful vintage delivers mature aromas of cassis and blackberry backed by cola and spice.
Cascina Saria is a relatively new producer in the Langhe, although the family has been growing grapes for generations. This Barbaresco shows tart aromas of berry fruit and white cherry, but it also offers accents of red apple, spice, wet earth and smoked bacon. There's more heft and consistency in the mouth, and the fruit flavors show the thick and chewy qualities of a hot vintage.
Case Ibidini is a line of value wines from the Ragusa area of Sicily, with the island's best Baroque architecture may be found. This Nero d'Avola (aged in stainless steel) presents crisp cherry and bright almond aromas.
Case production was 46,000 and every bottle will sell because it's a good wine at a great price. Nothing terribly complicated, but dry, full-bodied and fruity.
Casey McClellan blended 15% Merlot into this vintage—the most ever—and has crafted a bright, sappy wine with vivid flavors of spiced apples and raspberries. There's a distinct scent of cinnamon, perhaps from the use of Hungarian oak barrels, (30% new.) Thoroughly delicious and surprisingly deep in this lighter vintage.
Cass has been focusing on Bordeaux reds in Paso Robles; their Cab Franc has been very good, and this Cabernet Sauvignon is better. It shows its warm origins in very ripe fruit flavors of blackberries, currants and chocolate, but the structure is enlivened with fine acidity and rich, dusty tannins. Delicious and dry, it shows an elegance that makes it irresistible.
Cassis and black-cherry flavors are at the core of this pure Cabernet. It's tight and tannic, with accents of earth and ground coffee. It's definitely a wine that should be decanted well ahead of consuming.
Cassis and blackberry aromas are bold and show a feral side as this breathes. Fresh and charged up on the palate, this hits with cassis and blackberry flavors in front of a fruity, not oaky finish. Drink this pleasurable, well-made Malbec now through 2017.
Cassis and bramble-bush notes are aromatic on this vivacious Blaufränkisch. It's loaded with blackberry flavor and subtle hints of vanilla, spice and Bourbon that linger on the finish. Medium bodied, with fine-grained, moderate tannins.
Cassis and cherry aromas are raw and scratchy, but they are also pure and racy. This blend of Merlot and Cab Franc is choppy and fresh in feel, with jumpy acids propping up red currant, plum and raspberry flavors that come with oak-based vanilla. An earthy tasting, rough feeling finish is the closing act.
Cassis and chocolate notes dominate, but there's enough minty, eucalypt character to impart complexity, all framed by some firm, dusty tannins. Finishes long and mouthwatering; drink now–2015. Multiple U.S. importers.
Cassis and elderberry scents pair perfectly with tobacco and loamy dust aromas in this serious blend of 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot and 6% Malbec. Tobacco accents the black fruit on the palate as well, with dill, anise and charcoal touches. It's firmly structured and bone dry.
Cassis and plum aromas come with a whiff of rubber. This is clean and ripe in feel, with good body and a bit of structure. Flavors of cassis and black cherry show a chocolaty edge in front of a juicy, pure, direct finish.
Cassis and raisin aromas lead to a rubbery, grabby and pinching palate. This wine tastes of herbal, leafy berry and plum, while the savory finish lingers.
Cassis and violet perfume seep into layers of bramble wood, smoke and toast on this aromatic wine. Medium bodied in style, it's ripe with blackberry jam notes highlighted by soft acidity and a delicate fringe of tannins.
Cassis liqueur marks this structured Cab divine in firm, lengthy tannins and a chewy grip of black licorice. Given similar treatment to the winery's other highest echelon Cabs, it has 22 months in new French oak that will help it age through 2020–2030.
Cassis liqueur, blueberry notes and a smoky cured-meat element comprise the nose of this engaging, beautifully balanced offering. Dried cherry, cedar, tea and tobacco flavors predominate, and the texture is supple. The long finish displays handsome cherry and coffee notes, with plentiful but even tannins. Almost drinkable now, but best after 2002.
Cassis spritzer and pine tree-like herbals provide a promising start on the nose. It's rich in the mouth, with cherry, blackberry and a nice edge of black pepper.
Cassis, almond paste and raspberry characterize the nose of this luminous but deeply pink rosé made with Calabria's celebrated Gaglioppo grape. The wine achieves a beautiful balance between tart and sweet flavors that last long.
Cassis, bell pepper, toast, French oak and coconut lead the nose. The aromas carry over to the tightly wound palate along with raw red currant, powdered sage, licorice and a confectionery note. Close-grained tannins leave a rather astringent finish.
Cassis, black cherry and other solid dark-fruit aromas seem solid and inviting. The palate is saturated but shows good texture and flow, while the flavors and essence of cassis, raspberry and eucaplytus are ingrained all the way to the finish. Springy, tasty and attractive, but not complicated.
Cassis, black cherry and raspberry notes meander throughout this spirited blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Puckering with cranberry acidity, yet velvety and rich in texture, it's a kaleidoscope of fruit, earth and savory herb complexities that linger on the finish.
Cassis, black pepper and smoked meat start this stylish Shiraz from the venerable estate. A beautiful balance of savory black fruit and spice layers on the palate, followed by a lingering, vanilla spice finish. Ageable and elegant.
Cassis, blackberry, animal hide, herb and olive aromas create a good nose. The palate is thick feeling, with herbal black-fruit flavors, carob and spice. On the back side, it's bold but burns a little with heat, oak and acidity. By and large, this captures the good elements of Carmenère.
Cassis, blue flower, baking spice, grilled herb and a whiff of new leather lead the nose. The chewy palate offers dried black cherry, mature plum, chewing tobacco and nutmeg alongside fine-grained tannins. Despite its solid structure, it also has elegance and freshness.
Cassis, cherry and coconut aromas are toasty and offer a minerally note. Lively and juicy across the palate, this Maipo Cabernet brings a typical Chilean mix of plum, currant, herb, spice and chocolate flavors. A dry, peppery finish shows some unresolved oak, meaning this has more time to mature. Drink through 2018.
Cassis, menthol, black olive, and some alfalfa make for a complex bouquet. It's undoubtedly forward—red fruit, chocolate and vanilla on the palate—with a piercing quality that could subside with age. This wine has the stuff to please: it's round, mouthfilling and very correct.
Cassis, mineral, floral notes and aromatic subtleties hint at sophistication and maturity. This is layered and well structured, with exotic spice flavors accenting oaky red-currant and plum notes. The finish is mellow, woody and fresh feeling. Drink now.
Cassis, olive and a hint of nail polish make for a solid, Chilean-style nose. The palate has a firm, juicy feel and nice flavors of raspberry and plum followed by secondary notes of woodspice and vanilla. Peppery and a little resiny on the finish.
Cassis, raisin and an oak-based note of plastic are the key aromas. This Cabernet is wide and blocky on the palate, with choppy tannins. Earthy, raisin flavors are ripe and sweet tasting, while a jammy finish is full of mixed berry flavors.
Cassis, raisin, vanilla and rooty spice aromas give this Tempranillo blend some class on the bouquet. It's resiny and fairly heavy feeling, with lightly burnt and earthy flavors of herbal red berry and plum. Dry and peppery on the finish.
Cassis, red licorice candy and leather are the key aromas on this full-bodied, ripe Syrah. Things run big but healthy on the tongue, while flavors of black fruits, toast, coconut and chocolate announce plenty of oak. A rich, persistent finish is just bright enough. Drink through 2015.
Cassis, sugar beet, leather and mild herbal aromas make this Cabernet appealing on the nose. It feels slightly syrupy and resiny, but with its core acidity the palate remains in good shape. Flavors of plum and cassis have a strong vanilla and oak resin accent, while the finish is tannic, roasted and robust.
Castel's Blanc is always a well-made selection, and the 2010 carries on that tradition. With 12 months spent in French oak, this is a rich and rounded Chardonnay that exhibits excellent balance and structure, matching bright acidity and refreshing sweet citrus flavors with lush notes of wood-grilled apple, orange creamsicle, crushed yellow flower and peach pit nuttiness. Accents of woody spice and lime zest carry onto the long finish.
Castel's Grand Vin is a consistent Bordeaux-style blend that shows good depth and concentration, as well as the promise to age gracefully. Forward oaky notes of vanilla, toast and sweet spice dominate the nose, but the black-fruit core keeps it grounded. Flavors of cassis and black plum flesh out the palate, and a peppery note lingers long on the finish.
Castelão is the grape of the Setúbal peninsula, which includes Palmela. This big, chunky, fruity wine gives a rich, maturing character, perfumed with layers of wood. Smoky and meaty, it is ready to drink.
Castelão thrives in the sandy soils of the Palmela appellation. This reserve wine from 60-year-old vines with 12 months in wood is a rich, structured example. It's full bodied and ripe, packed with black plum fruit and acidity. Still young, it's ready to drink but will be better from 2018.
Castelão, a grape normally found south of Lisbon, has rather carried itself away here. Very firm tannins, a dark toasty extracted character and some bitterness are there along with considerable fruitiness and acidity. The wine is still coming together and will need time. Drink from 2016.
Castelcerino is a broad, thick Soave Classico with mature aromas of melon, apricot and exotic fruit. This is a simple but genuine wine that can be employed in less formal occasions.
Castelgiocondo's Brunello aptly represents the new face of Montalcino with its plump, well-extracted and modern style. The wine is packed with soft black cherry, chocolate and coffee aromas and shows a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Castelgreve is a refreshingly straightforward Chianti Classico made for sheer drinking pleasure. It has a lovely fragrance of violets and berry with a hint of pressed powder. The vibrant palate offers up bright red cherry, white pepper, clove and thyme along with silky tannins and freshness.
Castello Banfi's 2006 Brunello opens with smooth and soft cherry flavors and is packed tight with background aromatics that include tobacco, cola, leather and more dark fruit. The wine's texture is silky, crisp and long-lasting.
Castello Banfi's delicious Cum Laude is a super Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese and Syrah that opens with rich aromas of black fruit and chocolate fudge. The 30% Cabernet Sauvignon component adds background notes of exotic spice, moist tobacco and firm tannins.
Castello Banfi's Tavernelle is a wine that has shown a very nice evolution over the years. It's a Cabernet Sauvignon that boasts the ripe, concentrated qualities of sunny Tuscany with the elegance and firmness of the variety.
Castello Banfi delivers a sophisticated and elegant expression with pretty highlights of dark fruit, cassis, crushed spice and even a dusting of black pepper. This classy riserva delivers dark concentration, polished tannins, balanced acidity and long fruit-driven persistency. Best in 5–10 years.
Castello Banfi in Tuscany does a great job with Chardonnay, as evidenced by this wine. It's rich and soft, with bright aromas of peach, citrus, vanilla and savory herb. A pinch of acidity on the finish works beautifully as well.
Castello d'Albola's Chianti Classico has a typical fragrance of ripe berry accented with hints of violet and spice. The bright palate delivers ripe, red cherry and white pepper along with round tannins. Pair it with pasta topped with ragù or barbecued steaks.
Castello d'Albola's Chianti Classico is a genuine and traditional expression of Tuscany with a good measure of wild berry, violet, spice and cola. It's a medium-bodied wine with fresh berry notes and ripe fruit flavors. Pair it with pasta or chicken.
Castello del Poggio's Dolcetto offers interesting aromas that recall ripe fruit, prune, spice and barbecue smoke. The wine is lean and streamlined on the palate with bright acidity and a pristine berry-flavored finish. Pair it with fried mozzarella sticks.
Castello di Bolgheri enjoys some of the most coveted vineyard sites that are located a stone's throw away from the Bolgheri castle tower. The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, and it delivers black fruit aromas, backed by wet earth, button mushroom and leather notes. It feels plush, yet structured.
Castello di Bossi makes some of the best Chianti Classico you will find and this base expression shows the beauty and potential of Tuscany in slightly less austere terms. It's a smooth, round wine with loads of cherry, blackberry, spice, chocolate and leather.
Castello di Semivicoli is a thick and succulent expression of Trebbiano that offers impressive intensity and persistency. Aromas here include honey, acacia flower, stone fruit, apricot and mature melon. There's also a touch of roasted almond for extra complexity.
Castello Romitorio has been showing impressive results the last five years or so. This Riserva opens with opulent, dark concentration and bright aromas of dark cherry, leather, tobacco and spice. There's a dusty mineral shading at the back and with a long-lasting finish.
Castello Romitorio offers a unique expression of Brunello with chalky-mineral characteristics behind bursting cherry and plush fruit. The wine is compact and clean on the palate but offers solid structure, power and a flash of piquant spice on the close.
Castiglion del Bosco is the beautiful Montalcino estate that belongs to fashion's Ferragamo family. The wine they carefully produce exhibits soft layers of velvety cherry and blueberry. Secondary aromas of tobacco and leather ride over polished tannins.
Castilla y León can be good bargain country, and all of the 2006 Volteo wines are Best Buy qualifiers. This varietal Tempranillo has a clean, fruity nose backed by bright berry flavors built on a floor or two of structure. It's a composed quaffer with pure flavors, adequate length and overall balance.
Castle Rock again surpasses expectations with this Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It has clear Cabernet character, a soft mix of black cherry and cassis, delivered with a smooth and supple mouthfeel. There are well-integrated hints of coffee, cream and herb. Ready to drink right now, with enough heft to stand up to most grilled meats.
Castle Rock does a fine job with this value Cabernet Sauvignon. Smooth and supple, the very pretty fruit flavors range from cranberry to black cherry. Delicate suggestions of mushroom, cocoa and dusty earth add welcome complexity.
Castle Rock is one of the most reliable sources of inexpensive Columbia Valley red wines. Ignore the generic label—what's inside the bottle is well-made. Light flavors of black cherry, soft tannins and a finishing flourish of mocha and red apple give this both lift and length.
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.
Caterina Zardini delivers a home-run Valpolicella blend with loads of concentration and charismatic aromas of ripe fruit, spice, blackberry and chocolate. There are light mineral shadings at the back of the wine's soft, lush mouthfeel.
Cattin has a speciality with sparkling wines and this is a good, fruity example. It has a lively, creamy mousse with apple and citrus flavors that come through strongly and cleanly. It's ready to drink.
Catty and grassy this is a very Sauvignon style of Sauvignon. It is tight, herbal and intense with a cool climate character that comes from the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean to the vineyards. Drink now.
Cava d'Onice is a delightful estate on the eastern side of Montalcino run by a husband and wife team (with two small children). This expression opens with dark fruit and spice backed by bright tones of cherry and toasted almond. In the mouth, it shows structure and mild softness.
Cava from Rioja may not compute but it's definitely an approved category of sparkling wine. This is minerally and smells a lot like vitamins. The palate is round, moderately foamy and wide. Flavors of passion fruit, papaya and nectarine finish smooth, with an easy bubble bead.
Cavallotto (Tenuta Bricco Boschis) offers a dark and powerful Riserva with a masculine, brooding personality complete with black spice, peppercorn, licorice, cola, prune and blackberry preserves. The wine concludes with a soft, velvety mouthfeel.
Cavallotto didn't make any Barolo in the 2014 vintage due to the cold rainy weather so the firm's best grapes went into this vibrant polished Nebbiolo. It opens with enticing scents of rose, perfumed berry, chopped herb and a whiff of tilled soil that follow through to the racy medium-bodied palate along with crushed raspberry, cherry, star anise and mineral. It's nicely balanced, with firm acidity and taut refined tannins. Drink through 2020.
Cavallotto still travels under the radar, but is one of the finest Barolo producers. Its Bricco Boschis is bold and beautiful, offering intense rose and berry aromas layered with eucalyptus. The creamy palate delivers cherry, spice and balsamic notes, along with hints of Alpine herbs. To let this complex wine develop fully, drink it after 2019.
Cavanera is a white blend produced by one of the most important wine families based in Trapani, on the other side of Sicily. The wine is crisp and fresh, with a drying mineral note that gives it momentum in the mouth.
Cave de Tain remains a reference-point cave cooperative. The nose of this cuvée inspires shivers of anticipation, offering hints of bacon, cracked pepper, blueberries, roasted meat and black olives. It's only medium-bodied, but harmonious and nicely silky in texture. If there's a quibble, it's that the finish falls off a bit quickly, but this wine should still capably scratch nearly any Syrah itch.
Cave Spring rocks Riesling, and this off-dry (16g/L) version is sexy and mineral-drenched. It's a perfect mix of sweet and tangy, the citrus and tree fruits dense with complex phenolic highlights that add to a wine that's textural, full bodied and long.
Cavit's Bottega Vinaia line offers an extremely likeable and creamy wine that will more than satisfy adoring fans of Italian Pinot Grigio. The layered aromas are both opulent and pristine and recall acacia flower, yellow fruit, butterscotch and honey—loads of honey. In the mouth, it is lean and fresh with perky spice on the finish.
Cavit is an important wine cooperative in northern Italy that is largely responsible for Pinot Grigio's immense popularity in the United States. This bottle shows easy tones of peach and citrus.
Cavit is relatively new to the Prosecco genre and this sparkler provides all the fresh fruit flavors you'd expect from this popular category of Italian wine. It's a low-intensity wine, with notes of peach, honeydew kiwi and white peppercorn. There's also a slightly soapy-musky tone at the back.
Ceago's Reserve seems a little top-heavy in oak. The caramel and woodsap coating smothers the underlying wine, which is very fine, to judge by the winery's '07 unoaked Chard.
Cecchetti Wine Company makes a lot of Line 39 Sauvignon Blanc, but does it well, offering an affordable wine that tastes great. Grassy and tropical, it's true to Lake County, with just a touch of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc character. Crisp and easy to drink.
Cecchi's Coevo is a wonderful super Tuscan blend that costs half as much as the other cult wines in this elite category. The wine is rich, opulent, intense and extremely focused in terms of its aromatic delivery and the mouthfeel is long, textured and rich.
Cecchi, the historic estate in Chianti Classico, is doing beautiful work at their second property in Maremma, southern Tuscany. Litorale Vermentino really does conjure up images of sea, sand and heaping servings of seafood. The wine is light, fresh and very tasty.
Cedar and bramble lend toasty, woodsy complexities to this Cabernet Franc's luscious blackberry and cherry palate. It's fleshy and succulent in mouthfeel, framed by fine tannins and sweet-tart sour-cherry acidity. Elegant yet approachably juicy, it's drinking nicely already but should hold well through 2020.
Cedar and cigar box are most prominent on the nose, followed by hints of blackberry and currant. The palate boasts cigar box, leather and raw oak with more currant and pomegranate offering levity. Medium tannins lend structure and carry through to the cedar flecked finish.
Cedar and coconut aromas rest comfortably atop ripe black fruit scents. In the mouth this is juicy pure and well structured. Big chocolaty flavors of mixed black fruits show strong notes of charred wood and grilled meat on a toasty chocolaty finish. Drink through 2022.
Cedar and oak aromas lead to ripe blackberry and plum on the palate. A sweet-seeming layer of maple syrup and brown sugar flavors make this wine jammy in personality.
Cedar and resin notes rise to the fore in this full-bodied wine that's basic and hearty, with blackberry and dried herb flavors.
Cedar and spice are the lead aromas, and beyond that there's blackberry, pepper and floral notes that rain complexity down on the bouquet. The palate is superrich, a bit tannic and deep as night, with black fruit, espresso, syrup and spice flavors. Finishes brawny and long, with toasty richness. Drink now through 2013.
Cedar and vanilla notes mark the nose of this wine, which boasts ample weight, modest fruit and a soft, open-knit texture. It's appealing for its oaky charm.
Cedar aromas and raisin and prune flavors are bold in this full-bodied, fresh but rather rustic wine.
Cedar aromas mingle with cherry and mixed berries on the nose, giving way to earth and cinnamon flavors on the elegant palate. With little tannin and moderate acidity, this is a wine for drinking over the next year.
Cedar cigar box and berry aromas become significantly more charred and toasted upon airing. It feels good, with plum, berry and plenty of burnt toast in the flavor package. It finishes dark and spicy, with a leftover burnt note.
Cedar dust, dried herb, currant and graphite combine effortlessly in this restrained wine, subtle in buried tannin. It shows voluptuous body with moderate acidity and a ripeness on the finish.
Cedar plank-grilled meat and herbal accents jazz up the heady black fruit core of this wine. Rich and dark, flavors of black berry, plum flesh, cigar box, licorice and pepper dance in the mouth and stay through the solid finish. Fine but firm tannins provide structure and texture, and the wine, though delicious now, should age nicely through 2014.
Cedar, berries and tobacco on the nose of this elegant red give it a moody appeal. On the palate, cherry, mocha and smoke prevail. This wine has dimension and class.
Cedar, black currants, prune and tobacco aromas unfold in the glass. The warm, forward palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, black pepper and tobacco alongside astringent tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, it's shy on fresh acidity and the fruit is starting to dry up—a result of the hot vintage—so drink sooner rather than later.
Cedar, bold berry and cassis aromas come with an exotic note of sandalwood. In the mouth, this feels alert, bright and grabby, with a full load of muscular tannins and acidity. Flavors of spiced blackberry, coffee and chocolate are toasty and a touch burnt in character on the finish. Drink through 2023.
Cedar, cassis, red currant and grilled herb aromas lead the nose in this blend of 85% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The palate offers pomegranate, raw red berries, anise, sage and roasted coffee bean alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish.
Cedar, char and blackberry aromas are full and ripe on the nose. Given the wine's age, its structure and tannic weight are just right. Earthy, lightly roasted flavors of spiced raspberry and plum finish peppery and dry. Drink through 2020.
Cedar, cherry, black olive, wet earth, green olive and freshly plucked plum pop on the nose of this bottling. The palate shows lots of ripe black cherry down the middle, but is surrounded by a tangy green olive and an underripe-berry character, whose tartness enlivens the mouth.
Cedar, chocolate and cherry are the main players, with hints of alfalfa adding a modicum of complexity. It's full bodied, round and warm, with tannins that seem firmer than many in this price category, making it a good steakhouse red. Drink it now and over the next several years.
Cedar, cigar box and earth notes blend with ripe berry aromas to give a subtle, charming bouquet. Rich and full-bodied, with roasted berry, chocolate and coffee flavors. Finishes dark and sweet, with chunky ripeness all the way to the end. Drink now through 2013.
Cedar, cinnamon and black cherry aromas offer friendly and generous appeal here. The wine is fruit-forward and friendly with blueberry, black cherry and pepper on the palate. An easy drinking but elegant choice.
Cedar, cinnamon and nutmeg notes show in the aromas and continue in the flavors. This complexity blends well with the classic Merlot flavors of black cherry and subtle herbs. It's medium to full bodied, but very smooth in texture. The blend is Merlot, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah.
Cedar, coconut, tobacco and earthy berry aromas are typical of Rioja. This is juicy and zesty in the mouth, with bright acidity. Flavors of berry, vanilla and earth finish strong. This is an excellent but not overly complicated wine; drink through 2024.
Cedar, cola and spicy oak notes fill the aroma of this full-bodied, well-balanced and smooth-textured wine. The flavors are soaked with concentrated and layered black cherry and currant fruit that persists nicely on the finish. A generous helping of fine-grained tannins adds to the velvety mouthfeel.
Cedar, earth, black currant and underbrush aromas lead the nose on this wine made entirely with Cabernet Sauvignon. The smooth palate delivers black cherry, grilled herb and exotic spice alongside polished tannins.
Cedar, exotic spice, nutmeg and cinnamon are backed by vibrant red fruit and a touch of red apple that adds a direct, almost-pungent character to this hearty red wine. It has those gritty, tight tannins that are always associated with Sagrantino, a grape native to Umbria, and would pair well with succulent cuts of beef.
Cedar, graphite and concentrated plum aromas mark the nose of this full-bodied wine from the southern end of the appellation, where it's cool and breezy from the Pacific Ocean. Entirely varietal, it shows a wealth of red and black berry fruitiness, dotted with dried herb.
Cedar, graphite and dried herb form a crucible of flavor and complexity in this well-made wine, priced fairly for the quality. Seamless interwoven tannins support a hefty weight of powerful ripeness defined by sultry layers of dark cherry and dark chocolate.
Cedar, graphite, marzipan, black plum and blackberry aromas ooze power and ripeness. This is concentrated and dark in style, with oaky blackberry and cassis flavors. Spice, vanilla, raisin, cassis and chocolate flavors reflect maximum ripeness, while the finish is dense, layered and potent. Drink this hefty, extracted Malbec through 2020.
Cedar, graphite, plum and berry aromas make for a good bouquet. This feels fresh, albeit choppy, while flavors of cassis, berry fruits, oak and herbs come together well. A quick finish lacks complexity, so drink this blend of Carmenère, Petit Verdot and Shiraz now.
Cedar, ground pepper, cassis, scorched earth and tobacco aromas lead the way on this powerfully structured red. The chewy full-bodied palate doles out dried black cherry, black currant, fig, licorice and dark bitter chocolate set against a backbone of ripe and solid tannins.
Cedar, herb, mushroom and woodspice aromas are followed by tart cranberry and flavors that show some astringency. The wood gets out front.
Cedar, oak and woody tannin make for a classic and composed entry to this wine, which is otherwise boldly ripe and full bodied. Big layers of blackberry and chocolate confront the palate with force, accented in coffee, clove and cinnamon.
Cedar, pencil and wild mushroom scents accent the nose of this wine—a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot and 10% Sangiovese. Generous tannins give additional weight to the overall concentration. The finish feels dusted with spicy clove.
Cedar, pepper and herb show up in healthy doses within this dense, structured wine. A good measure of juicy red fruit hits the tongue midpalate before fading away.
Cedar, red cherries and woodsy mineral notes make for a fairly complex opening. The palate is crisp, with lovely tar and leather notes framed by soft tannins that persist on the moderately long finish. An elegant choice to accompany steak.
Cedar, smoke and clove mark the nose of this medium- to full-bodied wine. It's oaky and muscular, but not to excess, showing ample cherry fruit and ripe tannins before an abbreviated finish.
Cedar, tangy black cherry, boysenberry, black pepper and sharp citrus scents show on the very powerful nose of this bottling. The oak influence remains strong on the palate, where vanilla and charred pine notes meet piquant dark red fruit, oregano and marjoram flavors.
Cedar, tobacco and dried-berry aromas are mature and spicy. This shows preserving acidity and flavors of caramel, baked berries and spice. It lasts long on the finish; drink now.
Cedar, tobacco and mint aromas are followed by vibrant flavors of violet, red berry and black pepper in this elegant blend of Syrah, Merlot and Xinomavro. Dry and spicy but rounded by softer fruit, it's a very good red with exotic appeal.
Cedar, violet and red forest fruit aromas start this complex and stately red. On the palate, cherry, plum and pepper prevail. A classic wine with potential in the cellar.
Cedarville's estate-grown, Priorat-inspired blend of 45% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, is well made and inclined to age. It's still soft and oaky with a hint of leathery cassis and game. Imagine a Spanish fiesta for this food-friendly wine.
Cedarville's ode to Priorat, this is a mix of 45% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. The three get along swimmingly, amusingly mixing into a triad of dark blackberry, dark licorice and dark chocolate. The rich texture is on the mark, and the wine provides just the right heft for any spicy, brawny meal.
Cedarville is loved for its Syrah and Grenache but it can expertly handle its estate Zinfandel too—grown at 2,500-foot elevation—This smoky, raspberry-wrapped, silky wine is full of big, round mountain tannins yet somehow manages to be light on its feet on the finish. Have it with sticky ribs.
Cedarville remains an estate producer to follow in the Foothills, melding a well-farmed site with clean, clear winemaking in the cellar. Grown on decomposed granite hillsides, this Syrah has 4% Viognier, just the right touch to bring out the best aromatics, highlighted by sage. Dark, earthy and leathery, this wine is holding onto its tannin and oak, but given time to rest in the cellar 5–7 years, it'll scream to be served with cassoulet.
Cedarville takes a lot of pride in its Cab, and this definitely screams mightily of its mountain, granite-soiled origins, with a rich mouthfeel and rocky minerality. Fully fruity, though restrained, this Cab has plenty of leathery plushness in the midpalate ending with a finale of dense, dark chocolate.
Cedary aromas of wood shavings, sawmill and spiced berry evolve in the glass but hold onto a woody essence. A deep, structured palate deals flavors of wild berry, clove and chocolate, while an additional layer of chocolaty oak rises up on the finish. Drink from 2018–2030.
Cedary oak aromas are draped heavily over this smoky, dark, cheesy-smelling Rioja. The mouthfeel is tight, tannic and resiny, but also spunky and properly acidic. Raw oak, coconut and vanilla accent dark-berry core flavors, while the finish is much like the bouquet: toasty and woody.
Cedary oak, tobacco, wood spice and black-fruit aromas are on the heavy side. The palate follows that lead with a chunky bumpy feel. Pushy black-fruit flavors come with chocolate and herbal notes, while this tastes of chocolate mint and feels scratchy and tannic on the finish.
Cedary plum and berry aromas are savory and ripe, but not overt. This feels layered and almost lush, with grabby tannins. Flavors of blackberry, baking spices, cocoa and mocha finish chewy, chocolaty and long. This is a serious Merlot to drink through 2019.
Cedary spice notes accent aromas of raspberry and plum on this firm wine. The palate is big, creamy and blocky, with oaky flavors of vanilla as well as earthy plum and red berry. Cocoa, spice and vanilla flavors are prominent on an oaky finish. Drink through 2017.
Cedary, leafy, dry aromas of cherry and lemon peel filter into a sinewy, oaky palate with cherry, plum and vanilla flavors. A direct finish is hard-driving and a bit herbal. Like many 2008 Riojas, this is rough and firm in its delivery.
Cedary, spicy aromas and flavors rather than a strong fruit character define this medium-bodied, soft-textured wine. It is heavy on the spice and light on acidity and tannins.
Cedary, spicy berry aromas are pure Rioja, but this also tosses in campfire, graphite and toast scents. A massive palate is concentrated and needs time to unfold. Flavors of plum, spice cake and pepper finish with a powerful tailwind of chocolate, herbs, spice, berry fruit and acidity. Best from 2020 through 2030.
Celebrate the best of Lazio cuisine (think platters of frutti di mare or puntarelle, a spear-like endive salad dressed in anchovies and garlic) with Frascati Superiore Luna Mater. The wine's soft aromas include subtle pulses of vanilla, banana and stone fruit.
Celebrated for its amazing Merlot, Fattoria Petrolo offers this gorgeous expression of Sangiovese to complete its successful red wine portfolio. The wine is beautifully complex with deeply elegant shadings of bright fruit, blue flower and moist earth.
Celebrates its lusty volume proudly as a big, gutsy Zinfandel that makes no apology for high alcohol and extract. The flavors are huge, of ripe blackberries, loganberries, mulberries, red licorice, figs, black olives, Asian spices and oak, but despite all that, the wine finishes fully dry and balanced. Drink now through 2010.
Celebrating 15 years of Monte da Capela, this is a limited-release wine. The blend of Alicante Bouschet and Touriga Nacional is rich, darkly colored and beautifully dense. Packed with still young tannins and black fruits, it is a serious wine that needs to age. Drink from 2018.
Celebrating 20 years of winemaking tradition, Don Anselmo is a landmark wine that shows the best of the promising, but always overlooked, territory of Basilicata in southern Italy. Redolent of strong sunshine and volcanic soils, the wine is powerful and ripe with dark fruit, spice and mineral aromas. It boasts firm, drying tannins that will age gracefully with more time in the cellar.
Celebrating 200 years under the same ownership, this ripe, full and fruity wine is all that a Provence rosé should be. It's dry, rounded yet with a great line of red berry acidity. There is just a touch of spice to give a final lift.
Celebrating 500 years as grape growers, the Mellot family offers this top Sancerre. It is rounded and spicy with a touch of wood to add to its rich character. Apricots and pineapple are a delicious addition to the citrus acidity that cuts right through the wine. Age for 3–4 years.
Celebrating 500 years since the Mellot family started in Sancerre, this wine is a blend from some of the best parcels in the domaine. It is rich and intensely fruity, showing herbal, spice and juicy apple and pear flavors. These are sustained by the nervy, steely edge that will give this wine the chance to age. Drink from 2018.
Celebrating both the wide beret worn by Gascon men and the local Tannat grape, this firm wine is rich and concentrated. It has dusty tannins that support the dark berry fruits and balancing acidity. The bright, fruity character suggests it will keep until 2018.
Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Vespa (a creamy blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Picolit) shows rich texture and compelling aromas of apricot, honeysuckle, pineapple and vanilla mousse.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2015, this brand was the among the first Douro still wines. This Reserva, with its wood-aged flavors, is rich and full of ripe white fruits while not losing sight of the mineral texture of white wines from the region. While it is drinkable now, it will be much better from 2018.
Celebrating the beaches and waters around Lisbon in name, this ripe and fruity wine is forward with black fruits and soft tannins. It's an easy, rich wine, finishing with bright acidity.
Celebrating the creation of the Douro demarcated region in 1756 by the King of Portugal, this wine comes from vineyards at the heart of the historic region. It is structured and dark, dense with both tannins and black fruits. At three years old, it is still young, so wait until 2018.
Celebrating the first lot—Port—in the first auction held by Michael Broadbent in 1966, this is a reserve style wine, rich and soft with chocolate and ripe berry flavors to go with the sweet texture. There is just a final edge of stalkiness.
Celebrating the foundation of Cheval Quancard in 1844, this is a solid, dense and well-made wine from ripe grapes. The balance is good with tannins already integrating well into the juicy, ripe acidity. It's ready to drink but will age at least until 2019.
Celebrating the founding in 1875 of Antonin Rodet, this ripe, perfumed wine has red fruits that are opulent, gloriously drinkable already. It's ripe, softly textured, layered with delicate acidity.
Celebrating the Portuguese discovery of the spice route, this blend from different regions is smooth, rich and ripe. It has tannins that enhance the ripe black fruits and bring out the spicy edge to the wine. It is ready to drink.
Celebrating the Roman name, Munda, for the Mondego River, this wood-aged wine is also a celebration of the great white grape of the Dão, Encruzado. It is rich, smooth and ripe, with a fine mix of tropical, yellow and crisp citrus fruits all finely integrated into the mineral texture. The wine needs to age a little longer, so drink from 2017.
Celebrity chef Florence, in partnership with Rob Mondavi, from Folio Fine Wine Partners, has crafted this delicious, zesty Sauvignon Blanc. It's so rich in kiwi, lime, tangerine, wildflower, vanilla and mineral flavors, it's practically a food group in itself, but bright acidity grounds and balances it. Great job at a good price.
Celery and watermelon flavors give this pale pink, medium-bodied wine an herbal character. With a good balance between crispness and smoothness, it tastes refeshing and leaves a lingering finish.
Celery, lemon and zesty grapefruit are the dominating aromatic trio on this slender, moreish offering. The palate is balanced—even rounded—for such a slender, zippy and refreshing wine. The aromatic intensity becomes even more pronounced on the palate.
Celery, lettuce and lime aromas are cool and green. This is showing tangy, snappy acidity in support of lime, tarragon, sage and scallion flavors. A fresh, racy finish is fitting.
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.
Cellar floor, menthol and licorice aromas carry over to the simple palate along with oak and a green note of powdered sage. It lacks fruit richness while assertive tannins grip the finish.
Cellar this young wine for 5–6 years to let it mellow. Right now, it's aggressive in tannins and acids. The core of cherry, black raspberry, rhubarb and plum flavors is strong, which suggests that the wine will age.
Cenereto is a 50-50 blend of Sangiovese and Montepulciano that shows a thin, streamlined personality with bright accents of cherry and blackberry followed by tobacco and toasted espresso bean. The mouthfeel is flat and waxy.
Centive is a pleasant and lively Moscato d'Asti with fragrant tones of dried flowers, jasmine soap, lavender honey and sun-ripened peach. The smooth mouthfeel is capped by loads of frothy cream.
Cento Filari (95% Turbiana and 5% Chardonnay) is a crisp, floral and well-executed white wine that would pair with risotto nero (stained with cuttlefish ink), or tiny soft-skinned moleche spider crabs fried in a superlight batter.
Central Otago isn't exactly known for its Sauvignon Blanc, but this is a credible version. It's pungent and sweaty, but compensates with a rich texture, ample grapefruit flavors and a long finish.
Central Otago Pinot Noir doesn't come along very often at this price. This medium-weight, peppery wine doesn't show a ton of fruit, but does deliver some pleasantly spicy complexity and a mouthwatering chocolaty finish. Drink now.
Cepas Vellas refers to old vines, but what's most noticeable on this wine is the popcorn and cream that characterizes both the nose and mouth. In between the oak-aided folds there's melon, waxy papaya and banana flavors sitting on a plump, cushioned palate. It's a holdover from 2005, so drink it while you have it.
Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a delightfully light and fresh red wine (a blend of Nero d'Avola and Frappato, two native Sicilian grapes) that offers delicate berry notes with cola and almond paste. It's a very food-friendly wine with pretty mineral tones on the close.
Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a light, fragrant red wine that pairs with creamy shrimp risotto or white meat. Measured and elegant in terms of intensity, it offers pleasing freshness.
Cerasuolo di Vittoria is one of the most exciting red wines to emerge from southern Italy in recent years. This is made with organic fruit, and it shows bright tones of raspberry and cassis, with some tones of toasted almond and light spice at the back.
Ceretto's pristine Dolcetto d'Alba offers an interesting medley of fruit and almond aromas. Marzipan and almond paste also appear in the mouth and the wine ends with silky softness. Pair it with oven-cooked pasta.
Certain Argentine wines have a rustic, foxy character to them that reminds us that winemaking isn't a factory-proven science. This fits the bill; it's murky and sharp on the nose, with brambly raspberry sitting in wait. Feelwise, it's a bit too piercing and choppy.
Certain wines exude a sense of elevated excellence. This one gets to that level via aromas of spice cake, baked plum and tobacco aromas. A stocky saturated palate is structured and built to age, while this tastes of cool blue fruits, herbs, coffee and chocolate. A smoothly textured finish deals cocoa and mocha notes. Drink through 2040.
Certain Yakima valley vineyards attain a riveting complexity with Syrah—Dineen is one of them. The mix of wild berry, pomegranate syrup, coffee liqueur, composted earth, smoke and chocolate is compelling. This is Syrah that stands apart from most other New World versions, has the acid and balance to age, and the complexity to keep you coming back for another glass.
Certainly a bigger, denser wine than the Carneros Pinot. The plummy-berry flavors are wrapped in sturdy, rich tannins, with extra notes of earth and herbs. Feels weighty on the palate, a wine of importance, not to mention elegance. The density suggests meats on the bone.
Certainly a remarkable value, this brings concentrated flavors of ripe raspberry and cherry liqueur into a big, broad and deep midpalate. The exuberance and depth of fruit is astonishing, and the balancing acidity suggests that the wine will retain its freshness through 2020 and beyond. This is one to buy by the case.
Certainly a rich Riesling, but at the same time the white fruits show delicacy and elegance. Yellow plums, peach and almonds come together in a complex wine that has fruit juice freshness along with a crisp lime aftertaste. It could certainly age—give it 4–5 years. Screwcap.
Certainly among the most unusual wines from this vineyard, here is a Pinot Gris with 30 g/L residual sugar and alcohol under 11%. There is sufficient acidity—along with the minerality that the vineyard is known for—to keep the flavors of citrus rind and flesh well rounded and buoyant. Sweet enough to pair with a fruity dessert.
Certainly denser and richer than the regular bottling. Still, it is not a lot to get excited about. Berry-cherry flavors are well-oaked and framed in silky tannins. Feels easy and slippery in the mouth, but lacks the depth you want, especially at this price.
Certainly dry, but not as seriously dry as previous vintages of Celebris, this latest release is in a more opulent style. There is the proper grapefruit, mineral and flint character. Add to that yeast and toast, and the wine shows fine complexity and aging potential.
Certainly dry, this Champagne is also ripe and structured, balancing the extreme dryness and acidity. It is a complex wine that has the ability to age in the bottle. The minimalist label, designed by Philip Starck, is a perfect pairing with the no-frills wine inside the bottle.
Certainly intense, dominated by dry botrytis, with the syrup element here in texture rather than taste. The wine has a great tension between richness and intense acidity, a wine with a potential of 15 years aging or more, but for the moment an intense glass of wine.
Certainly intensely sweet, but it is the acidity that adds much to this wine. It is still very young with its bright acidity, mango and pineapple fruits and a dry edge from honey and botrytis. It needs aging for at least five years and more. Screwcap.
Certainly it is firm, with impressive power. But the smoothness of the ripe black fruits as they combine with the beautifully judged wood show a contrast of tension with the dense, chewy core. At its heart, this wine is dark and solid and concentrated, promising long aging.
Certainly light, but also deliciously fruity, with raspberries a dominant flavor in the juicy acidity and the softest, velvet tannins. Drink now.
Certainly more aromatic than the regular bottling, with black-currant notes, anise and fairly strong charred oak. Dry, with softly complex tannins and some berry fruit, but again, it seems a little light and thin.
Certainly on the dry side, this wine is also full of ripe fruit giving it a rich character. Creamed apples and attractive acidity are given a fine zesty textured edge. It comes from a producer in the Aube region in the south of Champagne.
Certainly one of the best wines made in the Hudson River region, this richly composed Cabernet Franc juxtaposes zesty cranberry and pomegranate against a velvety, supple palate full of summery black plums and cherries. Touches of savory olive and green pepper lend complexity and nuance. The finish is long, framed by persistent yet fine-grained tannins. Drinks well now but should hold well till 2020.
Certainly one of the finest Merlots ever made by Northstar, this is notable for the floral and citrus high notes, over cherry and cassis. There's coconut, chocolate and coffee, tar and tobacco also—a full throttle, seductive wine.
Certainly one of the successes of the vintage. Packed with cassis, sage, plum, tobacco, earth and smoky oak, and perfectly dry and balanced. Sheer joy in the mouth, like liquid velvet. It changes every second, offering up tiers of flavors through the spicy finish.
Certainly rich, but also finely structured, it keeps its exuberant fruit firmly in check with dry tannins, dense texture and a fresh edge of acidity. With this structure, this is a great, rich, meat-friendly wine.
Certainly rich, but this wine is also about purity of spicy fruit, bringing out the fresher side of the variety as well as the intensity.
Certainly ripe, but with such elegant fruit—quince, peach, mango, laced with grapefruit freshness. The light touches of toast come from barrel fermentation
Certainly sweet, this is a rich wine that is maturing well. It has weight and spice and a soft, opulent texture. It's sourced from grapes grown on the steep slopes above the city of Barr. Drink now and until 2018.
Certainly tannic but at the same time richly black fruited. This is solid, chunky, with plum and sweet fig fruits, lining a bitter chocolate and dark tannin outer shell. For aging over several years.
Certainly the finest Grand Ciel Syrah to date, this is a full-flavored, complete wine, loaded with pure fruit flavors of berry and cassis. The details pile on—a whiff of stone, a hint of chocolate, suggestions of spice, all in perfect proportion.
Certified-organic Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 100% of the wine. A study in red currant and clove, it's very much on the savory spectrum, with severe swathes of wood tannin and a bite to the finish.
Certified Biodynamic and all estate grown, this five-clone blend is barrel fermented with indigenous yeasts, and bottled unfiltered and unfined. It offers a mouthwatering mix of apple butter, caramel and toast. The length and subtle details argue for further aging, but go ahead and drink it now.
Certified French organic with this vintage, this 100% Merlot is ripe, full-bodied and already showing its potential richness. Terroir-driven black fruits and generous tannins give a warm character to the wine that is then backed by black fruits and final acidity. This is a generous wine from the Verdier family, ready to age. Drink from 2018.
Certified organic and Biodynamic, this estate-grown gem offers seductive scents of rose petals and orange blossoms, dried figs and a hint of pastry. The lush aromatics lead into a delicate yet profound wine, with a core of raspberry/cherry fruit, and lingering minerality.
Certified organic by Ecocert, this estate straddles the communes of Sablet, Plan de Dieu and Gigondas. This entry-level blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah is beautifully floral and herbal, yet backed by appealing red and purple fruit. Medium to full in body, it's firm but ripe, framed by dusty tannins. Drink now–2020.
Certified Sustainable applies to almost all New Zealand wines these days, so it's a bit of a gimmick to place it so prominently on the label, but what's in the bottle is very good. It's got those “good green” notes of snow pea, a hint of struck flint and tart pineapple flavors that linger on the finish. It's only light in body, but concentrated in flavor.
Cerviolo is a blend that builds in intensity on the palate, offering excellent extraction and a distinctive mix of Christmas spice followed by dry flowers and red fruit. This wine has loads of personality, jackhammer tannins and natural licorice and spice nuances on the finish. But those tannins definitely need more time to relax, so drink after 2012.
Cesanese del Piglio is at the center of Lazio's wine renaissance, which is currently only in its initial stirrings. This is perfumed, bright and loaded with dried herb, ginger, forest fruit and spice flavors. The close is velvety and soft.
Cesari hits all the right marks with this single-vineyard wine and presents a gorgeous, proudly modern wine with soft plush notes of chocolate, vanilla coffee, smoked ham and natural rubber. It is chewy and firm in the mouth but ends on a fresh note, leaving the palate glossed and clean.
Cesco di Nece is a dark, inky Aglianico that opens with aromas of dried tobacco, licorice and bitter chocolate. It's a bruiser wine with dark extraction and rock-solid structure.
Cetamura is a consistently excellent value wine from Tuscany that shows bright berry and forest fruit nuances backed by a crisp but thin mouthfeel. Those qualities make it an ideal choice for cheesy pasta.
Ceylon tea, fresh pineapple and tangerines perfume this off-dry blend of predominantly Vidal, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier grapes. Simple yet fresh, with pretty white floral and peach notes, this wine would be a lovely companion to lemongrass accented Thai and Vietnamese dishes.
CH, the international initials for Switzerland, are here as a reminder of the birthplace of Alice Tavares da Silva, one of the estate's owners. The wine, rich and dense, offers layers of new wood, mint and dark tannins. Seriously ripe, it's produced from old-vine Touriga Nacional, allowing juicy acidity to give some freshness, although the wine is much more concerned with power and longevity. Drink from 2019.
Château Brown continues its impressive push to quality with this fine 2010. It brings demonstrates the structure of the year with its firm, youthful tannins. But it also shows plentiful black-currant flavor, layered with acidity. Classic and serious, this is a wine for aging.
Château de Cérons, which also produces sweet wines, uses the same grape varieties for this dry white. It has an almost honeyed character that fills out its crisp acidity and citrusy orange flavors. Drink from late 2018.
Château de Mercuès has had its own vineyard since the 13th century. This latest vintage is a powerful wine, pure tannic and rich Malbec, structured and with huge black fruits. The wine has weight, solid tannins and an excellent potential. Drink from 2017–2018.
Château de Rully is managed by Rodet. It has produced a firm, dark and smoky wine in 2010. It's firm, solid, with an earthy, undergrowth edge. At the same time, its weight and density promise some good aging over at least five years.
Château des Jacques, owned by Burgundy producer Louis Jadot, makes serious wines, such as this Morgon. It's powerful and rich, full of solid black cherry flavors and a strongly mineral structure from granite soil. It's a complex wine that needs to age, so drink from 2017.
Château du Cros began life in the 12th century, commanding a superb military vantage point over the Garonne river. The surrounding vineyards have produced a fresh and fruity Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend with a mineral bite that gives a strong sense of structure. Its weight and a firm texture act as a foil to the juicy red berries and attractive acidity. The wine is almost drinkable now but will be better from 2016.
Château Grenouilles is a parcel within the Grenouilles Grand Cru, a monopoly of the La Chablisienne cooperative. The wine is always impressive. It has weight, richness, concentration and considerable potential. Yellow fruits, wood-aging, spice and a firm structure indicate keeping this wine for six years.
Château la Varière produces powerful reds, and this concentrated blend is no exception. It has some licorice flavors, intense black currant acidity and a touch of smokiness from the wood aging. It is a wine to age for several years; don't drink before 2016.
Château Magnol, owned by negociant Barton & Guestier, has produced a 2011 that is wood-laden at this stage. It boasts tannins, a tight line in black currant fruit, and a dry core of wood. This needs at least three years to round out and soften.
Château Potelle started making Zinfandel from Mount Veeder a long time ago. They've had their ups and downs, but the winery is back in force. The '09 Zin is intense with a spicy character. The black currant, prune and dark chocolate flavors should pair well with fancy beef and game dishes.
Chakalaka is always a bold and powerful selection, and the 2012 follows suit, with dense notes of black berry, plum and cherry that are framed by hints of lavender, licorice, laurel and celery seed. The medium-bodied palate offers spicy notes of pepper and bittersweet cocoa, with a lingering espresso tinge on the finish. A blend of 29% Syrah, 29% Mourvèdre, 13% Grenache, 13% Carignan, 8% Tannat and 8% Petite Sirah.
Chakana strikes again with this excellent value-priced Malbec. The nose hits firmly with smoke and rubber before settling on ripe black fruit notes. Then the palate holds form, with blackberry making its mark before chocolate fills the void. Great depth and purity for a wine not meant to be complicated.
Chalk and flint soil contribute to this tight, tangy, amazingly crisp wine. Behind this still-young texture await ripe apples, green plums and orange peel. Packed with acidity and still developing, this wine needs some more time. Drink from 2017.
Chalk and peach blossoms swirl into an alluring nose on this wine from a biodynamic-minded estate. It's light and airy on the palate, showing flavors of grapefruit and light honey, with brisk acidity and a chalky minerality making for a good, clean, fun wine.
Chalk and slate meld into blossomy floral tones in this fragrant off-dry Riesling. Zesty and spry, the palate is marked by flavors of freshly pressed apple, pear and lemon. Drink now through 2020.
Chalk and slate notes juxtapose fragrant, sweet-tart tangerine, lime and lemon on the nose and palate of this laser-edged kabinett. A kiss of honey gives the midpalate just a touch of sweetness that lingers long on the finish.
Chalk and the merest touch of honey, a little lanolin and lots of lemon and lime peel: that describes the complex nose of this dry Riesling from the wondrous 2008 vintage. The palate is poised and dry, its lightness accentuated by the rich, stony flavors around its core. Lemon freshness runs throughout. The finish is gloriously long.
Chalk dust and slate lend a mineral elegance to white blossom, lime and gooseberry notes. The palate is zesty and spry, marked by concentrated hits of sweet stone fruit and citrus flavor.
Chalk Hill's 2010 seems a little too underipe for comfort, although it is clean and dry, with some pleasant citrus and peach flavors.
Chalk Hill enters the Pinot game with this inaugural offering. It's a fruity, spicy wine, rich in cherries and raspberries, with a light, silky texture. There's an oaky note, but the finish is chiseled. A lovely wine for drinking over the next year or two.
Chalk Line includes all five Bordeaux grapes along with 25% Syrah. The first sniff brings up generous red and purple fruit aromas and pretty, yet restrained, barrel toast. It's well-integrated with medium density and excellent balance.
Chalk, cherry, crushed clove and nutmeg are all present on the nose from this 81% Cabernet Sauvignon / 19% Merlot from Paso Robles' Westside. It's juicy and vibrant once sipped, with deep red fruits and a blackberry finish. The wine isn't particularly complicated wine and there's isn't much tannic backbone for long cellaring, but it's tasty, approachable and easy-drinking now.
Chalk, Key lime, macaron and slight scents of wool greet the nose on this blend of 40% Grenache Blanc, 28% Viognier, 20% Picpoul Blanc and 12% Roussanne. It's very clean and crisp once sipped, with a seared-lemon character in the midpalate and limestone minerality contributing to a decent grip for a white wine.
Chalky accents add character to the red berry and white strawberry aromas and flavors of this wine. It's fresh and clean in the mouth with zippy acidity and an easy finish. Drink now.
Chalky and dry on the nose, with notes of mineral and forest berry, this Sangiovese-based wine would make a perfect companion to Mediterranean dishes, meat appetizers or pastas in rich, creamy sauces. Peter Warren Selections & Planet Wine.
Chalky and dry, this tastes of barely ripe cherry, with plenty of leafy flavors. The tannins take over quickly in a brief, drying finish.
Chalky and thick, this varietal wine offers a wealth of herbal, vegetative qualities while remaining medium-bodied in the glass, supplemented in violet and cassis.
Chalky and thin, this shows no particular varietal character. It looks as if it's already fading, and flavors taste woody and dull. Two bottles tasted; same notes.
Chalky earth, black pepper and clove comprise the nose on this wine, which gets a boost from 10% Merlot. The flavors are spicy and complex, with cedar, tea and a tiny bit of varietally distinct green pepper.
Chalky in stone fruit, this white combines a crisp lightness of being with a creamy texture, making it satisfying on the palate, balanced and elegant, with just enough ripeness to keep it sharp. The finish continues the theme, crisply refreshing and long-lasting.
Chalky mineral tones persist throughout this brisk light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc. It's lean in profile with delicate lemon and cantaloupe flavors. The finish is refreshingly citrus.
Chalky minerality meshes with soft, clean and crisp pink grapefruit flesh and blossom on the nose of this wine by Norm Yost, one of the first to make sparklers annually in Santa Barbara. More grapefruit flavors consume the palate alongside cut pears, sliced apples and wet cement, offering a texture that's both crisp and rich.
Chalky notes of baking soda meet with a nice sizzle of scratched lemon skin, slight bubble gum, fresh sourdough bread and pear blossom on the slightly yeasty nose. Tight lime skins, Asian pear flesh and pink grapefruit cling to a center line of texture and acidity.
Chalky oyster shell and saline notes accentuate the brisk, brash feel of this light-footed Chardonnay. On the palate, fresh apple and lemon flavors are accented by whispers of vanilla and spice. The finish is cutting and crisp.
Chalky tannin surrounds succulent baked plum and dark cherry, with chocolate and black licorice riding along in the back seat. This is a full-bodied, ripe wine.
Chalky tannins and dried herb mark the entry of this wine, which stays varietal despite the addition of 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sage, peppercorn and high-toned cherry complete the picture, with well-integrated, generous tannins framing the overall picture, finishing in swirls of cinnamon and vanilla.
Chalky tannins and subdued fruit and tannin weight make this an inviting, food-friendly wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller amounts of Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Made from estate vineyards, it's rich in black cherry and dark chocolate, concentrated and layered. It ends in a spicy back note of pepper. Cellar through 2022.
Chalky tannins override the deep, black-cherry flavor. Cassis and licorice streaks are also present, and there is no quibble with the concentration. Perhaps more bottle age will smooth out the chalky finish.
Chalky, intensely mineral aromas stand out in contrast to the plush, intensely fruity palate of this Cabernet Franc rosé. Slightly off dry in style, its black plum and cherry flavors are voluptuously rich and ripe, accented by fresh cranberry acidity.
Chalky, mineral tones infuse the clean apple, Asian pear, white peach and melon rind aromas on the nose of this wine. It's pure and focused, with ample acidity that cuts through the ripe fruit flavors on the palate. Hints of orange blossom and clove-spiked citrus unfold on the finish. Drink now–2017.
Chalky, stony notes come to the forefront on this austere, restrained, non-dosed vintage crémant. The taut texture carries green apple and citrus tones, with a satisfying, savory soy sauce backdrop. This is poised and precise, fresh and refreshing, clean and structured—a testament to the nobility of Chardonnay.
Challenging aromas of roasted beet, horseradish, herbal blackberry and animal hide lead to a meaty dense palate with rock-hard tannins. Flavors of black plum, blackberry and toasty oak are fiery, intense and carry over to a hot finish.
Chamomile and fresh herb notes lend breeziness to this pretty floral white wine. The palate is robust, concentrated with white grapefruit flavor, and tinged with a pleasantly astringent lime-pith finish.
Chamomile and ripe, red-apple notes make for an appetizing nose. The palate adds lovely vivid notes of zesty tangerine to this. Aromas of hay flowers also appear on this shimmering, aromatic, tight, taut and linear Riesling. Concentration fills the mouth with wonderfully light but sure-footed brightness and flavor. The dry long finish has a grounding earthy touch. Simply wonderful. Drink 2017–2035.
Chamomile blossoms seem to perfume this delicately fruity, floral wine. Medium-sweet in style, it's dainty and spry, showering the palate with sweet Meyer lemon, lime and honey. It's pristine through a long meandering finish.
Chamomile flower and yellow stone fruit aromas are the primary aromas. The simple, straightforward palate tastes of yellow apple skin, a hint of white peach and a touch of mineral alongside crisp acidity.
Champagne is the model for this ultraclassy wine. The aromas explode with toast, lees and the most delicately fragrant citrus and raspberry notes. It turns rich and subtle in the mouth. There’s a suggestion of fruit, but it’s really quite dry. The quality difference is in the harmony, elegance and balance. This is seriously good sparkling wine.
Champagne producers pick Pinot Noir for sparkling wines less than fully ripe. In this wine, there are some attractive yeasty, bread-dough aromas, but it shows too many of the green herbal and stemmy flavors of unripe Pinot.
Champoux and Ciel du Cheval vineyards each make up 40% of this wine, with the balance coming from Gamache. It's locked-up tightly at present with earth, tar, cherry, high-toned herb and barrel-spice aromas leading to focused black-fruit flavors that display elegance and persistence. Give it time to open up.
Champoux is known for powerfully deep, cherry-flavored fruit. Here there is also a strong minerality, like dry rock or cement, but it quickly runs into a chalky, tannic finish. The fruit seems flat, not spoiled in any way, but lacking vibrancy.
Champoux is one of Washington's most revered vineyards, known especially for the rich, black cherry fruit on display here. However, this wine seems to be aging rather quickly, the flavors turning soft and leafy in the midpalate, and the wine's rim hinting at the beginning tones of brick. It's drinking nicely, and should be consumed near term for best enjoyment.
Champoux, Charbonneau, Ciel du Cheval, Elephant Mountain, Klipsun, and Slide Mountain vineyards make up this wine. The aromas are lightly styled, with notes of baking spice, caramel, licorice, raspberry and dried herb. It comes off as full bodied, rich and liquorous, coating the palate from end to end with ripe red and black-fruit flavors. It's a hedonistic delight.
Chandler Reach grew the grapes for this big, chewy, rather blocky Merlot. It offers pleasant red fruits and light chocolaty barrel notes.
Chandler Reach vineyards supplied the fruit. This is tart, opening with sharp berry flavors and lots of citrus, then settling into a moderately long finish that brings in a mix of strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. It's simple but ready to go.
Chandon's smaller production sparkler, the étoile Brut is 52% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir and 11% Pinot Meunier, with most of the grapes grown in Napa and Sonoma though the wine is given a North Coast label. It has a toastiness akin to creme brûlée, a bite of yellow cider apple and almond that's quite savory and a medium finish.
Chanson owns four acres, a quarter of this premier cru. This 2011 is smooth, rich and very elegant. Fruitiness is striated by a mineral, tight texture that gives a touch of steeliness. Drink from 2017.
Chaparral scrub and hibiscus combine on the rather light and dainty nose. Iron, tart cranberry and riper pomegranate pop on the palate, which has good energy and is fairly straightforward and simple.
Chapel Hill's recent Cabernets have been impressive, and the 2006 continues that streak, offering complex aromas of green coffee beans, dried herbs and cassis, then easing into flavors of dark chocolate and black olive. Shows good density and richness, ending on notes of cofee and chocolate. Drink now–2013.
Chapoutier's flamingo-pink rosé is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault that's features strawberry bubble-gum aromas and flavors, some melon fruit and a slightly chalky finish. Drink up.
Chapoutier's largest Hermitage cuvée is rich and almost fudge-like in 2007, yet at the same time isn't at all sweet or confected. Notes of sweaty leather, dried cherries and chocolate are framed by silky tannins. Drink now–2020.
Chapoutier's selections of the best parcels of vines in Hermitage are set to become legendary. Sold under the ancient spelling of the appellation name (Ermitage), they represent the epitome of the power and concentration that lies behind the reputation of the appellation. This cuvée is the best of the collection, with its brooding, opaque character, suggesting rather than revealing power at this stage. Age it until your new-born baby is old enough to drink, and it will be just about ready.
Chapoutier has crafted a beautiful Condrieu. It may have high levels of new wood flavors, but of greater importance is the ripe Viognier, with powerful spice flavors and concentration. There is a sense of elegance as well as power which gives the wine a fine presence.
Chapoutier has fashioned a full-bodied, creamy-textured 2009 Le Bernardine, with dark, plummy fruit and a hint of chocolate liqueur that ably reflect the warm vintage. Yet despite all of the lushness, the wine doesn't come across as heavy or overdone, making it attractive for early drinking. Try now–2018.
Chappellet winemaker Phillip Corallo-Titus helps make this wine, a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon with 11% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. While possessing a sizable tannin structure it remains balanced and elegant in cedar, pencil shavings, tart cranberry and cassis. It's rich and velvety.
Chapuy is a négociant based in Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Chardonnay vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. This wine, made from grapes sourced exclusively from grand cru vineyards, is all citrus, mineral and apple skin flavors. It's a tight, taut effort with a crisp texture and a note of grapefruit on the finish. Worth aging for a few months.
Char and blackberry flavors on the palate are as brooding asthe dark soil, oak and berry fruit on the nose. Tannins speak louder than flavors in this wine; it's black, and with a little more lushness, could be a beauty.
Char and coffee notes ride high on this Tempranillo's black-fruit bouquet. Grabby tannins and an overriding scratchy quality control the palate, which is full, ripe, tannic and abrasive. Dark flavors of blackberry and chocolate end with notes of espresso and black pepper.
Char and gritty scents ride heavily on the bouquet, which also shows fresher notes of cassis and raspberry. This excels via a natural feeling, pulpy palate and flavors of raspberry and red plum accented by pepper and herbs. A lightly herbal, minty finish offers length and good texture.
Char and roasted coffee notes add toasty nuances to ripe black-cherry flavors in this penetrating Pinot Noir. A vein of brisk cranberry acidity runs through the palate, adding zip and verve. It's finely textured, but bold tannins linger on the finish.
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.
Char and savory spices accent blackberry and cherry aromas on this crisp, medium-bodied wine. On the palate, delicate fruit flavors are a bit overwhelmed amidst layers of oak and spice. It ends with a soft kiss of tannins.
Char and toast singe ruddy black cherries and plums in this dark, full-bodied Pinot Noir. It's plush and luscious in texture, with brambly notes on the midpalate and fine, slightly bitter tannins lend complexity.
Char and wood grain are prominent on a smoky nose with blackberry and black-currant aromas. Intense tannins and layered depth make for a full palate, while this tastes ripe and toasty, with blackberry and chocolate flavors. On the finish, mild herbal complexity mixed with latent oak are stirring. Drink through 2026.
Char, clove and rubber aromas dominate what's otherwise leafy and herbal. A tight, hard-tannin palate features peppery, bitter flavors of black fruits in front of a pinched, narrow-feeling finish.
Char, dried herb and broad black-fruit notes give this Cabernet Franc a sense of darkness. Medium to full bodied, it has an easygoing midpalate and a finish that comes with a tangy, candied element and an inflection of mocha.
Char, firepit, barrel spice and herb aromas lead to elegantly styled cranberry flavors in this wine. The tannins lend a light structure.
Char, sawdust and black cherry aromas confirm the wine's “oak cask” labeling. Full bodied and ripe, it conveys meaty thickness and bold flavors of berry and spiced plum. A toasty, charred finish is lifted by bright acidity and fresh black-fruit flavors. This will go well with just about anything off the grill.
Char, thyme and blackberry aromas are foremost on the nose. The palate feels dense and well built, with grasping tannins that latch onto the brittle finish.
Characteristic lime-leaf and lemon notes marry with blossoms and grass. The palate, however, is less focused, starting bright, tapering to flatness in the middle, and finishing on the richer side.
Characteristic spiciness and grape flavors show well in this dry wine. There is an apple leanness about the texture, but the acidity gives it freshness, and a crisp aftertaste.
Characteristically perfumed, this Pinot Gris is full bodied with a richness of texture. It is complex on the palate with notes of nuts, spice and an edge of citrus fruit. Age this wine and don't drink before 2016.
Characteristically spicy and packed with lychee flavors, this wine has an attractive lightness that stops it being too rich. The result is a wine that is fragrant and fruity with a rosewater and pear aftertaste. Screwcap.
Characteristics of toasted almond and pistachio shine through as soon as you put your nose to the glass. Those notes are followed by bright cherry and blackberry, plus fresh sensations of acidity.
Charbono is a variety that used to be more widely planted. It's always a rustic wine, but it ages forever, and can develop sweet complexities. In its youth, it's fruity, soft and tannic, with ripe blackberry and chocolate flavors.
Charbono is an old-fashioned grape that almost nobody makes anymore, but Shypoke is giving it some love, and good for them. This is a really nice wine. It's as full-bodied, dry and tannic as a Merlot, but with different flavors, of black cherries, grilled meats and mushu plum sauce, with dusty exotic spices and a touch of funky smoke. It's soft enough to drink now.
Charbono is an old variety in Napa Valley, now rarely grown. This wine is bitterly tannic, yet the blackberry, cherry and mocha fruit is so strong, it breaks through the astringency, making the wine drinkable now. But it will age for at least a decade, maybe two. Try as an interesting alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Charcoal aromas shadow standard black fruit scents. This is forward in its approach, with a sturdy mouthfeel. Black plum and blackberry flavors feature a lot of vanilla and cream, while the finish is mild, straightforward and tastes mostly like oak and associated vanilla. Drink now through 2020.
Charcoal, cola and licorice are all components of this wine's dark and meaty nose. And the palate hardly disappoints; there's depth and harmony to the berry, coffee and mocha flavors. It feels good and has just enough kick to keep you thinking. A really nice crianza that will settle and only grow more complex over the next few years.
Charcoal, cola and menthol aromas sit on top of blueberry and mint. The mouth is so tannic and powerful that it's tough to swallow. Incredibly ripe, this has a short finish that's toasty tasting and not complex in the least.
Chard fans will exult in this spicy wine. It packs a potent punch of pineapples, apricots, tangerines and honey, and is nicely balanced with crisp acidity.
Chard freaks will love this California-style version of the variety. It's wonderfully fruity, with ripe pineapples, tangerines and papayas, and a rich, sweet taste, like bananas sautéed in butter and drizzled with honey. The acidity is perfect. Great job for the price, and easy to find, with production of 12,700 cases.
Chardonay and Pinot Noir are both present in this apple and pear flavored wine. A lively mousse brings out the fruit and acidity, giving a tangy, bright wine that's ready to drink now.
Chardonnay (75%) and Grillo are blended to produce an intense wine with pungent notes of ripe fruit, pineapple, candied lemon and yellow rose. There is alcoholic heat on the close but it is softened by the general density and thickness of the wine's texture.
Chardonnay and Arinto make a particularly satisfying blend with the roundness of the Chardonnay given a fresh, crisp lift by Arinto. This wine is soft while shot through with lemon acidity. Light and fruity, it is ready to drink.
Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc is a blend once found in Burgundy, but rarely today. Here in Austrian Burgenland, it gives a very rounded style of wine, although with a terroir-marked mineral edge. Baked apples and creamed pear are laced with pink grapefruit.
Chardonnay and Sauvignon grapes are blended to produce this fragrant white wine from Calabria, southern Italy. The Chardonnay component adds structure and creamy density, while the Sauvignon offers fresh floral aromas.
Chardonnay doesn't get much richer or riper than this. Explodes with grilled pineapple, lemondrop, smoky meringue, buttered toast and cinnamon spice flavors, brightened and boosted by crisp, citrusy cool-climate acidity. Racy and clean and complex, it should develop bottle nuance over the next four years.
Chardonnay doesn't get much riper or richer than this. Dazzles with pear jam, pineapple custard, crème brûlée, buttered toast and cinnamon spice flavors, and a firm grounding of minerals. Calls for the richest possible foods, like lobster. Drink now.
Chardonnay fans will like the pineapple and pear flavors, with their creamy, spicy edge of vanilla and pepper spice. It's a direct, dry wine at a pretty good price.
Chardonnay from a hot valley in a hot vintage equals something like this. Orange peel and oak aromas, a pulpy palate and warm flavors of orange and grapefruit.
Chardonnay from the Loire spotlights the grape at its freshest. This lightly vanilla flavored wine is dominated by apple and pear flavors. The smooth texture is pierced with tight, mineral acidity that makes the wine so fruity and crisp. Drink now and until 2017.
Chardonnay from the producer's vineyards in Anjou is the base for this wine. It has a soft creamy texture that is light and fruity without any sign of wood aging. It is round, smooth and ready to drink now.
Chardonnay from three grand cru villages in the Côte des Blancs, this tense mineral wine is bone dry with citrus and apple crispness. It is tight and nervy, still young and needing to age further. This will be ready to drink from late 2018.
Chardonnay grapes star in this rich bubbly. It's attractive in pear, orange, papaya and toast flavors, with a fine edge of sourdough yeast. The bubbles are a little scoury, but otherwise this is a good price for a vintage sparkling wine.
Chardonnay grown at the mouth of the Loire is as crisp and green as you would expect. This unoaked wine has touches of pear and definite citrus, very fresh and light.
Chardonnay has always been the signature grape of this producer and this finely proportioned wine has both the house style and a mineral character from the grape. It is crisp, moving towards the dry end of Brut and with lively fruitiness. Drink now.
Chardonnay has not been Clos du Val's strong suit, and even though this is a reserve, it's hard to fall in love with. Dry and acidic, it lacks richness by today's standards, although you could charitably call it Chablisian. Still, it's an elegantly constructed wine with some complexity.
Chardonnay has not been Silverado's strong suit in recent years and the tight, lean 2008 does not alter that conclusion. The wine is dry and acidic, with citrus and apple flavors that lack charm.
Chardonnay in Gascony retains the freshness of the region. In this wine, there is the richness of the grape, with touches of caramel and a floral perfume. It is balanced and fruity, needing a few more months in bottle. Drink from the end of 2015.
Chardonnay in name only. It's a simple, watery wine, with sweet apricot, tangerine and faux oak flavors.
Chardonnay is an important part of the landscape in the Sézanne area south of Epernay. This ripe, toasty wine has a rich, warm take on the grape. Almonds and hazelnuts mingle with peach and pear flavors giving a creamy character. The bottling is ready to drink.
Chardonnay Jurosa delivers a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that would stand up to shellfish or white meat. Aromas include stone fruit, vanilla bean, melon and a playful touch of exotic spice.
Chardonnay lovers with a penchant towards rich, buttery wines spiced with cinnamon and vanilla will appreciate this unabashedly oaky yet neatly balanced wine. It's enticingly creamy on the palate, but sunny streaks of Meyer-lemon acidity lend refreshment. Drink now–2018.
Chardonnay offers the roundness while Fernão Pires offers perfume in this attractive, ready-to-drink wine. It has bright, crisp lemon and green-apple acidity that is immediately appealing. Screwcap.
Chardonnay planted in the mainly Pinot Noir area of the Montagne de Reims is the base of this off-dry wine. It is only just north of Brut with its mineral texture well intact and the creamed apple flavor coming to the fore. Drink both with food or as an apéritif.
Chardonnay Port? It's nothing remotely like anything that ever came out of Portugal, but it is sweet and crisp in tangerine, peach, vanilla and honey flavors.
Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Gewürztraminer constitute the blend. The wine is soft and dull, with watery flavors.
Chardonnay, Grillo, Insolia and Catarratto are blended in equal measure to provide a fresh yet complex wine. It bears a drying mineral tone, backed by notes of citrus, sweet peach and pear. A soft touch of fruity sweetness gives it roundness and depth.
Chardonnay, Pinot Nero and Pinot Bianco make up this peach-colored rosé sparkler. Aromas include creamy yeast, rose petal, pink grapefruit and lemon zest. The wine is fresh, firm and offers tart apple flavors on the close.
Chardonnays from Mount Veeder are rare, but the mountain can be a good home for that variety. Godspeed's 2012 is dry, brisk in acidity and enormously rich in tropical fruit, pear and apricot fruit flavors, enhanced with oak. Drink this Chard now with fancy fare, such as wild mushroom risotto, ahi tuna tartare and chicken lasagna.
Chardonnays from the Langhe (Piedmont, in northern Italy) tend to show a fine, focused quality that is firmly held in place by mineral tones and yellow fruit. This wine achieves just that, but also adds a thicker, creamier quality in the mouth followed by a tangy, spicy close.
Chardonnays from this vineyard always are powerful, but this bottling is over the top. It has ultraripe apricot and tangerine flavors, with strong acidity. Seems almost botrytised, with a honeyed intensity, although it's dry.
Chardonnays of this caliber are very price-sensitive, but for $10 or less, this is a good value. It's like a photocopy of a truly rich Chardonnay, but all the parts are there, making this Chard good for everyday drinking.
Chardonnays this rich need crisp acidity, minerality and a dry finish to balance them. That is exactly what you'll find in this beautiful example, from one of the appellation's best vineyards. It's bountiful in oranges, apricots and mangoes, with plenty of buttered toast, yet there's a mouthwatering tartness that makes you reach for another glass.
Charles Smith and Charles Bieler have grabbed a tiger by the tail, ramping up their brand while keeping quality high. This blend perfectly matches two shining stars in the pantheon of Washington grapes, delivering a tasty, accessible, lightly leafy wine, with sassy berry fruit front and center. Broad, open and delicious.
Charming and perfumed, with notes of musk, white flowers and wild grapes on the nose and exotic spices in the mouth. This is not a concentrated wine, but there's enough acidity here to balance the slight sweetness and to make it a refreshing apéritif. Drink up.
Charming and straightforward, barnyard, charred meat and manure notes on the nose lead to a palate perfumed with mixed berry compote. Shows the faintest grip on the shortish finish. Try with baby lamb chops.
Charming aromas of tobacco leaf and strawberries promise good things to come but the palate does not follow through. While some boysenberry flavors appeal, the wine is thin in the mouth. The tannins are a bit overly gripping now but the wine does not have the fruit ripeness or concentration to benefit from cellaring.
Charming overtones of citrus herald the freshness of the 2014 vintage, while the palate shows richer fruit: golden Mirabelle plums and baked apricot with occasional swirls of rose blossom. The dry finish beautifully accentuates the freshness and is rather moreish.
Charming, pretty and accessible, this is what many inexpensive New Zealand Pinots aspire to be. Mushroomy, earthy notes add depth to straightforward aromas and flavors of cherry and vanilla, all framed by supple tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2017.
Charmingly ripe and aromatic notes of juicy, yellow pear on nose and palate make for an ultrafriendly, easy-drinking and utterly fruit-driven wine. Drink soon to enjoy the amplified pear aromas while they're at their peak.
Charred-earth, espresso, French oak and menthol aromas unfold on this full-bodied red while a plum note lingers in the background. The subdued palate is rather evolved, showing raisin, toast, spirits and licorice but not much fruit richness. Assertive, close grained tannins provide the bracing framework.
Charred and burnt-smelling, and those aromas are overpowering although not necessarily bad. Feels big and tannic, with bite to go with dark flavors of bitter coffee, roasted black plum and wild berry. The charred, burnt character that controls the bouquet returns with a fury on the finish.
Charred and heavily oaked from the opening gun to the closing tape. Amid all the barrel influence and toast, you'll find black plum and wild berry aromas and flavors. On the finish, oak reasserts its control over this wine.
Charred and oaky at first, the nose on this aged Rioja reserva also deals blueberry, lemon peel and spiced plum aromas. Tight, acidic and grabby on the palate, this is healthy but forced in feel. Flavors of briny oak, black currant and salt finish with bold acidity and choppiness. Drink through 2020.
Charred and oaky smelling at first, this Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend transitions to caramel and marshmallow aromas as it breathes. Hard tannins pinch like a vise, while herbal dark-berry flavors show a note of juniper and green in front of a toasty, long, rugged finish.
Charred and rubbery smelling, but with earth, mocha, coffee and black fruit on the full and lusty nose. The palate is round and offers mocha-infused flavors of berry and black plum. The finish follows suit; it's creamy and oaky, but sweet and ripe. 300 cases made; drink now through 2013.
Charred and rugged on the nose, with gamy cherry and plum aromas, this feels narrow and clampy. Short, herbal, gamy berry flavors end with a lot of wood and related spice. This is a particular and individual wine with both good and challenging components.
Charred and smells of coffee, toasted oak, minty berry fruit and earth. The palate is quite tannic, with creamy vanilla flavors along with candied berry fruit and lemony zest. Exhibits mostly faux oak and window dressing, but for $11 it isn't bad.
Charred and smoky on first take, this has plenty of upfront oak that adds a toasty quality to the core plum and berry aromas. It feels full, round and pure, with dark, slightly balsamic-like flavors of baked berry and earth. It's smooth, mild and unobtrusive on the finish. Drink now–2016.
Charred aromas are draped over spicy, leafy berry aromas. This oak-blackened Mencía is wiry and bright in feel, with lightly green, mildly herbal and minty flavors of burnt berry and smoked meat. An herbal-tasting finish is good in feel.
Charred aromas of shoe polish and toasty oak frame additional scents of lemon peel, blackberry, cassis and animal hide. This is on the syrupy side, with cutting acidity and fierce tannins. Flavors of maple, molasses, chocolate, vanilla and coffee accent core blackberry and cassis. It's rugged, rich and ripping on the finish. Drink this massive wine from 2020 through 2030.
Charred aromas top this dark-fruited, high-quality Bobal from central Spain. While not very complex, this wine is exceedingly friendly and easy to like; it feels smooth and deep, with oaky goodness supporting black-fruit, carob and herbal flavors. Toast, blackberry, licorice and clove flavors all rise up on a clean, medium-length finish.
Charred beef tips, grilled whole fish, wet dirt and heavy tar combine for a pungent, serious nose on this Syrah from a vineyard planted by Central Coast pioneer Dale Hampton. It's elegant and soft on the palate, opening up with boysenberry and sage, and possesses ample tannins for aging. Hang on until 2018.
Charred beef, blackberries, elderberries and sweet tar aromas show on this small-batch wine made by a couple from Texas. There's decent density on the palate, with lots of blackberry fruit and black pepper as well as extremely bright acidity that will keep this wine alive for years.
Charred black plum, cola and licorice aromas show in this rare bottling of Petite Sirah from Santa Barbara County. The palate is streaked with dark purple and black fruit, its tarry tannins and sharp acidity dissolving rather quickly.
Charred blackberries and deep caramel notes make up the nose of this wine named after the cellar master. Medium in feel, the palate shows a decent roundness, however racing acids cut the midpalate short. Additional black fruit carry the flavors, with black pepper marking the finish.
Charred blackberry aromas carry a minerally note. This blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah feels tight and drawing, although with time in the glass it lessens its grip. Meaty, savory, oaky notes top core blackberry flavors, while this takes on a sauvage note along with a can't-miss flavor of wood grain on the finish. Drink through 2022.
Charred blue- and black-berry aromas mingle with cola and coffee on the nose. The palate follows suit, adding in a toasted black pepper spice that leads to a mild burnt-bacon finish. Medium bodied with prickling acidity, this toasty, gamy Syrah could sit through 2016 to mellow out.
Charred caramel drizzled over pineapple rind show mildly on the nose. The palate is medium in weight, with a muddling of lemon and tart peach. This Viognier is crisp and to the point.
Charred chocolaty aromas are forceful but not convincing. This feels choppy and raw on one hand, but sticky and chocolaty on the other. Herbal stewy currant and raw-wood flavors are challenging, while this tastes herbal and woody on the finish.
Charred earth, leafy underbrush, prune marinated in spirits and grilled herbs come together in the glass. The warm, evolved palate shows blackberry jam, dried cherry, licorice and the heat of evident alcohol alongside bracing tannins. Give the tannins a few more years to soften then drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.
Charred earth, smoke, roasted coffee bean and raisin aromas come together on this. The brawny palate offers prune, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside tightly packed tannins that leave a drying, rather astringent finish.
Charred earth, toast and menthol aromas come together in this evolved wine. The palate is dried out, showing licorice and powdered sage notes alongside worn tannins.
Charred earth, toast, grilled porcini, cured meat and mocha aromas lead the nose. The juicy palate offers mouthfuls of ripe black cherry, raspberry jam, licorice and menthol framed in big, velvety tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Charred earth, toast, underbrush and roasted nut aromas come together on this. The palate shows the heat of the vintage, offering raisin and clove alongside close-grained tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.
Charred earth, underbrush, cured meat and toasted hazelnut aromas lift out of the glass. The robust palate is almost overripe, offering dried black cherry, grilled sage, tobacco and a hint of game alongside tightly packed tannins that clench the finish. Drink 2019–2025.
Charred lamb, lilac and freshly paved streets make for a very savory entry to this excellent bottling—a partnership between longtime Santa Barbara County viticulturist Jeff Newton of Coastal Vineyard Care Associates and Villa Creek winemaker Cris Cherry. Tangy elderberry, black peppercorns, rosemary and lavender show on the sip, where gritty sticky tannins make for a memorably tarry expression from a new vineyard.
Charred meat, blood, concrete and elderberry form a deep and complex nose. The fine-grained tannins deliver gamy, blackberry flavors, making for a very solid wine that's a steal of a deal.
Charred oak aromas and flavors are paramount in this assertive, bold and tannic wine. By themselves the smoky, peppery aspects would make for a one-dimensional wine, but this one adds substantive, rich, blackberry-like fruit flavors underneath. The firm tannins call for pairing with a rib-eye steak or barbecue.
Charred oak aromas settle on creamy, with a note of plastic to go with heavy spice and secondary berry scents. This feels raw, tannic and grabby. Flavors of plum and clove are woody, while this has the texture of grape-skin extract on the finish, meaning it's rough and grabby.
Charred oak characterizes the nose of this wine from an estate just 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean, but chopped dill takes the place of overpowering butter aromas. The herbs show up on the palate, hovering on pine needles, sandalwood and oak toothpicks, with lime pith keeping it fresh.
Charred oak, barbecue smoke and a hint of prune detract somewhat in this tart, herbal wine that offers a suggestion of cola. It finishes somewhat flat.
Charred oak, green herbs and vanilla spice notes mix oddly. The palate is soft and plush, with notes of sweet mocha and chocolate, but also a bit tired and chalky with faint tannins in the background.
Charred oak, licorice, herbal blackberry and gamy notes make for a full array of aromas. This is big and tannic, but with a sense of fresh fruit. Plum and cassis are the core flavor components, while the finish is fleshy and not overly demanding. Drink through 2021.
Charred oak, maple, tobacco and berry aromas are full and clean. The palate is solid but not so polished and smooth that there's no edge to things. Flavors of mocha and leather support core black-fruit notes, and then vanilla rushes in on the finish and takes over. Drink now through 2014.
Charred on top and showing roasted berry aromas underneath. This wine sizes up as a plump, round berry ball with low-to-medium acidity and soft tannins. It's just mildly herbal and rooty, with a soft finish. It flows smoothly and won't cause any eyebrows to be raised. Drink now.
Charred plums, roasted meat and a tinge of truffle oil lead the nose on this powerful yet balanced wine. It hits the palate with a sanguine iron flavor and a pleasant tension thanks to appropriate bitterness. This Pinot Noir can tackle the heartiest beef dish you can make.
Charred resiny oak aromas dominate herbal berry fruit. This is rough and raw on the palate, with sizzling tartaric acidity and forceful tannins. Flavors of burnt black coffee and herbal plum finish with a ring of excess acidity.
Charred smells of burnt popcorn or campfire appear at first but blow off to reveal cherry, blackberry and toasted almond. The wine is compact and lean in color with bright berry notes on the finish.
Charred soil, espresso, used leather and game aromas carry over to the lean, firm palate, joined by dried black cherry and licorice flavors. The wine finishes abruptly, steeped in raspy tannins.
Charred strawberries and very ripe cranberry sauce make for a very compelling nose on this rare single varietal bottling of this lighter Rhône red. It's full and light on the palate, with tanned leather, sandalwood and more spiced strawberry. A very nice change of pace from the region's big reds and good way to impress wine geek friends.
Charred turmeric and cumin notes spice up this Bordeaux-style blend's core of dark cherry and mocha aromas. It's robed with tame acids and finessed tannins, finishing with a tangy sanguine-like note.
Charred vanilla beans and lemon custard greet the nose on this single-vineyard bottling by Buellton-based Brian Loring. The flavors are quite subdued at first, and then unleash green pears and red apples, with lime pith bitterness and a wet slate minerality that arises toward the finish.
Charred wood and myrrh hints meld with hibiscus, rosehip, tea leaf and tangy plum skin scents on the nose of this delicate but layered bottling from Doug Margerum. The palate boasts vibrant energy, which cuts through soft raspberry and graphite flavors. That vibrancy will last a long time. Drink 2018–2035.
Charred wood is undeniably abundant, yet surprisingly integrated on the nose and palate of this Monticello Cab Franc amidst layers of spicy mocha chocolate and ripe black fruit. Richly extracted, yet elegant and clean in profile.
Charred wood notes on the nose and palate lend a smoky, slightly herbal tone to dense, richly concentrated black-cherry flavors. The char subsides substantially with aeration, revealing a well-composed wine that balances power with elegance.
Charred wood, espresso and thyme aromas lead onto the medium-full palate, which is supported by sturdy tannins. This Syrah would pair well with a pulled-pork hoagie.
Charred, almost burnt aromas dominate the nose on this muscular, tannic Malbec. Like the nose, this tastes largely of blackened hickory and coffee, meaning the fruit is buried under a lot of barrel weight. Drink through 2027.
Charred, blackened aromas of mint, licorice and burnt tire overshadow the wine's black-fruit components. This feels thick and dense, with chewy weight. Medicinal, herbal flavors of black fruits are peppery and a bit green, while mint and cough drop notes control the finish of this 85% Garnacha Tintorera and 15% Monastrell blend.
Charred, earthy black-fruit aromas are smoky and power-packed. This feels full yet balanced, with freshness and strong tannins. Ripe berry, prune and oak-spice flavors finish with a note of vanilla and length. For a Crianza from a tough vintage, this is commendable.
Charred, leathery aromas include popcorn and black fruits. This is angular and high in acidity, while the flavors run salty and rubbery, with black-fruit notes. A strained, lightly herbal finish tastes like roasted tomato.
Charred, malty, foxy, herbal aromas sound the alarm. This Garnacha-Carignan blend is rough as sandpaper, with heavily oaked flavors of herbaceous black fruits. A rough and rugged finish is abrasive.
Charred, meaty aromas and equally smoky flavors give a rowdy personality to this full-bodied blend of Bordeaux grapes. Firm tannins and underlying acidity create a puckering mouthfeel.
Charred, minty black-fruit aromas include shoe polish, leather and earth notes. At first, this is plush in feel, but in no time it becomes hard as stone, with fierce tannins. Minty, oaky flavors of mixed spices and herbal blackberry are earthy and brawny on the finish, with punishing tannins. Drink 2018–2035.
Charred, roasted, rubbery aromas are low on fruit. Saucy and rough on the palate, this Tempranillo called the “forgotten one” tastes vegetal, meaty, savory and roasted, then stale on the finish.
Charred, smoky aromas are crisp and toasty. A muscled palate is tightly structured, while flavors of wood spice and lightly herbal berry fruits play out on the finish. Drink this blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Carmenère through 2020.
Charred, smoky aromas are dominant on the nose. Strong tannins overpower baked fruit aromas and oaky and herbal tones.
Charred, smoky aromas of blackberry are ripe as can be, with a note of graphite. The palate is huge, polished, pure and ideal if you like ripe, modern Rioja. Flavors of toast, blackberry, spice and mocha finish toasty, with strong notes of pepper and coffee. Drink this smooth, silky single-vineyard Rioja through 2021.
Charred, smoky, herbal aromas of blackberry trend in the direction of exotic before showing barrel-driven scents of vanilla and clove. This exhibits plenty of depth and sponginess along with toasty, herbal flavors of plum and blackberry. Pepper, burnt toast, clove and blueberry flavors carry the finish on this hefty Malbec; drink through 2021.
Charred, tarry, smoky aromas are gritty and outpace this boutique wine's fruit character. Hard and tannic, with citric acidity, this is steered by flavors of charred oak, licorice, chocolate and barrel resin. Toasty, spicy raspberry and blackcurrant flavors finish it up. Drink through 2026.
Charred, toasty oak aromas lend a note of maple to the nose of this pulling, tannic, high-acid Tinto Fino. Lemony oak, plum, wild berry and savory, saucy flavors finish with scraping tannins. Drink this single-vineyard ball of power 2019–2030.
Chasing Venus is made in textbook Marlborough style, with aromas and flavors of grassy herbs laid over passion fruit and gooseberries. It's medium in body, pleasantly soft and round in the mouth, just fades a bit rapidly on the finish.
Chateau St. Jean has a long history with Sauvignon Blanc, and this affordable wine shows their mastery of the variety. It's dry and crisply balanced, with delicious flavors of lemons, limes, pineapples and honeysuckle that are brightened with crisp acidity. A touch of Viognier, oak and lees adds complexities that make this a great bargain.
Chatons, which means “kittens,” indicates this is a younger style of wine from Château du Cèdre. The dark, perfumed, mint and black berry flavored fruits give richness and precociousness. The wine is going to develop over the short term so drink from 2016.
Chatter Creek's value-priced Bordeaux blend is often his most appealing red wine upon release. This is scented with hard cherry candy, and the flavors follow right on course. It needs some breathing time to open out, and as it does, the finish lingers with pleasing streaks of coffee and toast.
Cheerful and bright, this luminous sparkler offers dried fruit aromas with yeast and baked bread tones as well. It has aged nicely over the past five years but maintain the freshness and crispness you look for in an Italian sparkling wine.
Cheerful and bright, this well-priced wine offers a great introduction to Barbaresco to those who might be less familiar with this noble Italian wine. Vibrant aromas include wild berries, cola and a touch of smoked ham. The mouthfeel is crisp and very clean despite the hot vintage.
Cheerful and youthful, this opens with a sweet bouquet of wild berry, red rose, freshly grated cinnamon and clove. It's hearty and dense, but it delivers flavors that are refreshingly clear.
Cheerful, easy-to-like and silky, this Pinot Noir has clean raspberry and cherry tart flavors. It has good acidity, and a long, spicy finish.
Cheerful, fragrant and bright, this opens with aromas of lemon blossom, white almond and stone fruit. It shows tonic, firm bubbling.
Cheerful, light white aromas of citrus—lemon and orange mainly—lead on this white blend from Patras. On the palate, it's refreshing but offers some depth in its lemon and orange muscat flavors. Simple but appealing, and at an excellent price.
Cheese, milkweed and straw make for an unattractive nose, while the mouth is overtly sweet as if made from dried and candied mango and pineapple. The finish fades fast while leaving behind a residue left that isn't that pleasant.
Cheesy and way too earthy and murky to be rewarded with anything higher than an acceptable rating. The feel is scratchy and raw, while the flavors seem roasted, overly earthy and dry.
Cheesy aromas and a whiff of wet cement are more pronounced than basic plum scents. This tastes of candied fruits and chocolate prior to a simple sweet, sugary finish.
Cheesy aromas of leather, licorice and black fruits filter into a jagged, fiercely tannic palate. Flavors of tea, black plum, stewed berry and herbs finish with a big residual tannic bite.
Cheesy oak and dull white-fruit aromas are not a big draw. A chunky plodding palate feels a bit heavy, while dry oaky flavors suggest pear and green apple. Hailing from a cold, wet vintage, this seems as though it's losing clarity.
Cheesy oak and raw cherry and plum aromas create a nose that needs time in the glass to show its best. This Rioja feels fresh and tight, with pulling tannins. Zesty plum and cherry flavors carry a peppery side note prior to a snappy finish with similar flavors.
Cheesy oak aromas and murky fruit scents are less than what Atauta usually offers. Chalk it up to the rough conditions of chilly 2013. In the mouth, this is choppy. Roasted berry and earthy notes precede a tannic, rubbery finish.
Cheesy oak is the greeting on the nose of this older Malbec from a notoriously tough vintage. After that, earthy, stewed blackberry and meaty aromas come up. This is saturated and a touch stewy, with baked black-fruit flavors as well as gamy animal notes. A dense finish tastes soupy and savory. Drink through 2018.
Cheesy oak, vanilla, licorice and herb aromas accent an otherwise ripe-fruit bouquet. Like many of Chile's top 2012s, this is a heavy, ripe wine with a jammy wall-to-wall feel. Raspberry, cassis and herbal olive flavors finish earthy and loamy, with a warm tobacco note. Drink through 2018.
Cheesy smelling oak and slightly overripe fruit aromas are a little less than spotless on the nose. In the mouth, this is raw and saucy in feel, with biting tannins. Sauvage berry flavors are gamy, while this is drying, scratchy and rugged on the finish. Drink through 2022.
Cheesy tomato-based aromas are rubbery and fiery. This feels lean and monotone. Stewed, salty flavors of earthy berry fruits are off base and dirty, while this is cheesy tasting on the finish.
Cheesy, oaky aromas are staunch and less than appealing. A choppy, astringent palate and mulchy, briny berry flavors are less than helpful, while a rubbery feeling finish also fails to bring this around.
Chehalem makes four different Rieslings, and this is often the best of them. Rich and complex, it's dense with grapefruit, lemon, lime, apple and flavors of wet stone. Lovely in the mouth, it lingers gracefully through the finish.
Chemical-leaning aromas jump out on a last-legs nose. This feels dull and low on pulse, with only a hint of acidity. Mealy bitter apricot flavors finish pithy.
Chemical aromas are barely lifted by bland berry fruit scents, and overall this smells like wet cement. Tannic but weak in the middle, this tastes herbal and green, with a raw, herbaceous finish.
Chemical notes make for a less-than-promising begining but ease into pretty apricot, elderflower and honey flavors. Finish is longer than most, with nice balancing acidity. Drink now.
Chemical notes sit atop aromas of peach pit and green banana. This is narrow in the mouth, with mealy melon and tropical fruit flavors. A peachy finish lacks finesse and more.
Chemical resiny aromas stand out more than fruit. This Viura-led blend feels tight, tangy and acidic. Salty flavors of persimmon lack fruitiness. This 12% ABV wine from a cold vintage tastes salty on a finish that's living off acidity.
Chemical smelling oak, sawdust, plastic and milk chocolate aromas create a less-than-stellar nose. This is oaky/lactic feeling, with snappy acidity cutting through the palate. Flavors of generic red fruits and wood finish without much follow through
Chemicalized aromas of lemon peel and turpentine are offputting. This feels bland and tastes oxidized and bitter.
Chenin Blanc dominates this attractive wine, giving a nutty, almond and honey character. Stewed pear is balanced with lime acidity in a fruity contrast. The wine is aromatic, lively and ready to drink.
Chenin Blanc from Cahors makes sweet wines with intense acidity. This rich, concentrated effort has yellow fruit and ample texture, and it needs to age for 2–3 years.
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.
Chenin Blanc is a difficult variety to get right in California, but few wineries do it better than Foxen. They have a solid track record, going back for years, of wrestling the wine's difficulties into elegant submission. With the 2012 vintage, Foxen has crafted one of their best ever. It's dry, moderate in alcohol and crisp in acidity, with complex peach, citrus, green apple, wax bean and herb flavors.
Chenin Blanc is quite rare in Oregon, and this wine, from vines planted just five years previously, may inspire others to follow suit. Aromas of fresh herb and citrus oil lead into a tangy palate with lime, lemon verbena and expressive minerality. The balance and length are just right, and the varietal character is in evidence throughout.
Chenin Blanc isn't common in New Zealand, but the ones made here tend to be worth trying. This plump, medium-bodied wine features intense notes of melon and pear, along with a hint of anise. The finish is long and refreshingly crisp. Drink now.
Chenin Blanc may arguably be the least-appreciated great white grape in the world; outside of the Loire valley, no one bothers to showcase it. But Washington state has some Chenin vines approaching 30 years of age, and that fruit is the centerpiece of this ripe, round, floral and slightly spritzy offering from Pacific Rim. Fruit flavors of ripe pear and key lime make this a vivacious and lip-smacking crowd-pleaser, lifted with natural acids and finished at just 12.5% alcohol.
Cherries and chocolate are the hallmark of the Zins at Maryhill. The fruit is pretty and the chocolate smooth, certainly a crowd-pleasing style. The finish is clean and supple.
Cherries and chocolate highlight this medium-weight wine. The fruit is framed tightly with herbal tannins, and the balance is good throughout. The finish turns astringent and slightly chalky.
Cherries and fresh berry fruits dominate this smoothly ripe wine. It has light tannins, a smooth leather and sweet plum skin texture which gives it a round character. The acidity, cutting through the sweetness, gives a lift, finishing the wine on a fresh, mineral character.
Cherries and mushrooms play the lead roles in this silky-textured wine. Hints of cinnamon, brown sugar and mocha speak to oak aging, but this is driven by fruit, not barrels. Drink now–2019.
Cherries and strawberries abound in this elegant wine. Old-vine fruit was fermented and briefly aged in neutral barrels that somehow lend a subtle hint of apple-pie spices to the wine. A perfect late summer sipper.
Cherries galore on this easy, pretty red: the palate adds appetizing sprays of white pepper to the crunchy, moreish fruit, leaving you with a just about medium-bodied red of immense bounce and freshness. This embodies the fruity, joyful nature of Zweigelt perfectly and makes for effortless sipping.
Cherries jump out at you, a dense compendium of fruit set against iron and earth. The wine is a bit austere, tight; it may need decanting. But it's got good concentration and spice, and flavor that keeps on running through a long finish.
Cherries of every kind—red, black, jam, pie—are the essence of flavor here, along with red licorice, cola and sandalwood. It's a nice, structurally interesting and bone dry wine, with firm tannins and a good cut of acidity. Ready now.
Cherries, blackberries, spicy figs, dark chocolate and licorice are just a few of the flavors you'll find in this intricately layered wine. It's fully dry, with powerful but softly sweet tannins. Cabernet Franc is a real success story of the Sierra Foothills, as this polished wine demonstrates.
Cherries, blueberries and sweet Christmas spice characterize this Riserva and help fill out its dense, dark extraction. The wine has a very smooth, almost sweet-tasting element and offers chewy, juicy tannins with lingering berry flavors. Made with small percentages of Merlot and Cabernet to lift the Sangiovese.
Cherries, cinnamon and clove mark the nose, while the flavors include cherries, Mexican chocolate and floral notes. This is full bodied and robust without being hard, easing into a long, velvety-textured finish. Drink this blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah from 2018 through 2025.
Cherries, dusty earth and faint herbal notes define the aromatic spectrum and flavor range of this supple wine. The blend is 60% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre; drink it over the next few years.
Cherries, leather and earth all mingle on the nose and palate of this medium-bodied wine. It's a pleasant, easy-to-drink offering, even if it's not terribly concentrated or complex. Drink now.
Cherry-berry and vanilla surround a soft, spicy core of high-toned red fruit. Mellowed with age, the tannins linger in perceived sweetness.
Cherry-berry aromas are floral but also a bit furry and volatile. The palate on this uncommon blend feels fruity but also like grapeskins, meaning rubbery and pinching. Equally rubbery flavors of black plum and berry fruits turn mildly bitter on the finish.
Cherry-berry aromas mix with a hint of vinegar and cleanser to create a sketchy, foreboding bouquet. The wine is a little blocky in the mouth, with both weedy-herbal and plum-berry flavors. Finishes with tolerable but noticeable bitterness and burn.
Cherry-berry crumble topped with vanilla cream gives this wine a brambly, succulent quality, dusted in light cinnamon spice, cedar and well-integrated tannin and oak. Powerful and full-bodied, it's fruity, balanced and enjoyable now.
Cherry-berry fruit, spice, a velvety texture and a long finish make for a lovely wine, soft and limpid, but with underlying power. The tannins are as light as air, but somehow substantial anyway. The framework is exceptional. You'll be smacking your lips over this beauty.
Cherry-centric throughout with supporting elements of wild forestry, fennel, sweet spice and blood orange. The acidity is prominent but balanced within the round mouthfeel showing gripping tannins and an overall firm structure. It's approachable now and would pair well with fruit-stewed chicken or pork chops.
Cherry-raspberry notes show on the nose of this appellation blend from a Paso producer, along with eucalyptus and cedar. The palate is straightforward, with cranberry, raspberry, pencil lead and a bit of tar.
Cherry-rhubarb juice, shiitake mushrooms, sagebrush and iron make for a lush and layered nose on this appellation-blend wine that is widely available. The palate begins with plush red cherry then dives into oregano, sage and mace spice. It's expertly complex for a reasonably priced wine.
Cherry-scented, clean and fruity. Good concentration mid-palate, with no discernable new oak, just a balanced, firm attack and a strong, chewy finish. Only 123 cases made.
Cherry-vanilla and boysenberry jam combine around a ripe, lush and full-bodied wine, ideal for smoky, grilled foods. Smooth tannins make it enjoyable now and accessible to many palates, though be mindful of its power and intensity.
Cherry-vanilla and cola provide a voluptuous, full-bodied outline for this estate-grown wine, given 20 months in French oak, one-quarter of it new.
Cherry-vanilla cola aromas meet sweet brown spice notes on the nose. Medium-bodied on the palate, with nice roundness, sweet cherry and darker shades of plum carry to a clean vanilla finish.
Cherry-vanilla surrounds a flank of big oak, while classic notes of baked strawberry also come into play. A brawny, full-bodied expression of the variety, given 6% Mourvèdre and 6% Syrah, it has good bones and acidity lurking beneath the power.
Cherry and baking spices are the key flavors in this medium-bodied, juicy and delicious wine from little-known Solano County, which neighbors Napa Valley on the east. With good balance between the abundant fruit, moderate oak influence and crisp acidity, it's an all-around pleasant experience to drink.
Cherry and berry aromas are a bit hot and saucy. This feels chunky and borderline sticky, with hard raspberry and plum flavors. This is marginal, even for basic commercial Cabernet.
Cherry and berry aromas are basic and just good enough. This smacks down hard in the mouth with acidity, while flavors of tomato, red plum and medicinal berry end short and without a lot of substance.
Cherry and berry aromas are direct and vivid, with a slight touch of spice. There's energy to the palate, which is slightly jammy and creamy. Ripe plum and cherry flavors show mild oak notes, while the finish is bright, bold and deals some chocolaty oak.
Cherry and berry aromas are earthy, leathery and a touch stalky, with a note of compost. A round, fairly full mouthfeel and lightly oaked, medicinal flavors of black plum and berry fruits finish short.
Cherry and berry aromas are earthy, ripe and blocky. This feels round, complete and easy to drink. Flavors of loamy berry and black plum finish dusty and earthy, with just enough acidity to create length and modest complexity. This is 60% Garnacha and 40% Tempranillo.
Cherry and berry aromas are generic but clean and welcoming. A crisp, fresh mouthfeel is fruity and fairly light for Cab, while flavors of red plum, cherry and red apple skins finish racy and not oaky.
Cherry and berry aromas are ripe, healthy and aided by peppery notes and char. This is a nonvintage blend of Tannat and Cab Franc from the southwestern Carmelo district. It's flush and thorough in feel, with dark plum, berry and spice flavors. A warm finish with spicy oak and cocoa notes is smooth and attractive; drink through 2020.
Cherry and berry aromas are standard and good. Feels a bit edgy and clipped, with slightly herbal red plum flavors accented by a lot of oak and pepper. Turns real spicy and hot on the finish.
Cherry and berry aromas are touched up by oak-based vanilla, coconut and spice accents. While this is a bit choppy in feel, with citric-leaning acidity, flavors of red-berry fruits, smoky oak and coffee are nice despite a hint of heat and scour.
Cherry and berry aromas open this slick feeling Malbec. Sweet berry flavors are ripe, candied and medicinal. A candied flavor carries onto the finish, which darkens a bit at the end.
Cherry and black fruit aromas are capped by a rubbery note. It feels juicy and fresh, with raspberry, red plum and vanilla flavors. Drying but fresh and nice on the finish.
Cherry and black olive aromas are common for standard Chilean Cabernet, which this is. A fleshy, flush mouthfeel is raw due to prodding acidity and tannins. Herbal berry flavors are spicy and a touch green, while this tastes minty on the finish.
Cherry and black plum aromas are oaky and smoky. Full, blocky and a bit awkward on the palate, this Garnacha tastes of minty, oaky clove, roasted plum and black currant. A saucy, semi-oaked finish is solid enough.
Cherry and blackberry aromas are simple and slightly rubbery and reduced. In the mouth, this is juicy, fruity and a touch scratchy. Flavors of jammy berry and black plum finish regular and easy.
Cherry and blackberry aromas come with spice and cool note of cola in this Monatrell-Syrah blend. It's narrow and tannic, with black fruit and desert herb flavors that finish dry and rubbery.
Cherry and blackberry notes dominate this ripe, full wine. It has a smoky, toasty character that lends good balance and aging potential. The estate is planted with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cherry and blueberry aromas are floral at first, then a touch grassy after airing. This feels full and bouncy, while salty plum and berry flavors are limited but fine. This holds form on the finish.
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.
Cherry and cassis aromas are both a touch raisiny and candied. This has a high-acid mouthfeel to go with generic red-fruit flavors that turn a bit weedy the longer this is exposed to air. A quick finish is low on depth.
Cherry and cassis aromas are bright and bring an animal note. An energetic palate hosts plum, berry and herbal flavors, while a forward-charging finish is fiery and leaves a palpable herbal aftertaste.
Cherry and cassis aromas are dark and clean, with more than adequate ripeness. This Cab feels a bit edgy and abrasive, but not scratchy. Oaky, resiny flavors of berry fruits and plum finish spicy, with crisp acidity and tannins that poke and prod. Drink through 2021.
Cherry and cassis aromas are earthy, with hints of green herbs and cheesy oak. This feels a bit raw and scratchy, but fresh. Red-fruit flavors of currant and plum finish with snappy acidity and clampy tannins.
Cherry and cassis aromas are fiery but acceptable. This Cab has a medium-bodied palate and flavors of salty berry fruits and creamy oak. Dry oak spice is the most noticeable flavor on a mellow finish.
Cherry and cassis aromas are generic. This feels raw and choppy, with sharp tartartic acidity. Limited, herbal flavors of mint and red fruits end in abrasive style.
Cherry and cassis aromas come across as generic, not spicy, complex or particular. This Cab Franc is aggressive and tannic as it spreads out, with ripe berry, caramel and burnt brown-sugar flavors. Additional caramel sweetness joins chocolaty heat on a ripe finish.
Cherry and cassis notes provide a touch of brighness on the nose and palate of this blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Cabernet Franc, 26% Petit Verdot and 6% Malbec, but its plum-raisin backdrop and dullness on the finish suggest it might be going downhill.
Cherry and clove star in this vineyard-designate from a good vintage, in which the producer again aims low in terms of ripeness. It makes for a somewhat one-dimensional experience once the initial aromas and bite of flavor dissipate on the palate.
Cherry and crisp red currant aromas are racy and tutti-frutti in character. The palate delivers kick and acidity in addition to dry, pithy flavors of citrus fruits and nectarine. Dryness persists onto the finish, which is friendly but modest.
Cherry and currant aromas come with soupy notes and a blast of animal fur. Although this is aggressive and choppy on the palate, it's loaded with grapy, slightly stewed berry and plum flavors. A similar tasting finish turns more rough and warm with airing.
Cherry and dried cranberry aromas along with the magenta color give this wine a “red” personality, which is confirmed by the crisp red-fruit flavor profile. Fairly light in weight, but juicy and fresh, with cleansing acidity and some sharpness.
Cherry and flint, with accents of clove, set the stage for the bouquet. Flavors of black cherry, blueberry and anise are enlivened by a hint of salinity. This is an easy-drinking wine, with a burst of spice on the finish.
Cherry and lactic aromas give this a forced, pushy nose. Reasonable freshness and flavors of cherry, plum and minty oak are adequate, while the finish is scratchy and hot, with peppery spice and leftover oak.
Cherry and latex aromas are lean and limited. This feels tight, juicy and jumpy, with raw acidity. Spicy, herbal plum and raspberry flavors lack body on a dry, racy finish.
Cherry and leather aromas show a stemmy, brambly element. The mouthfeel is sharp and scratchy, while the flavors are a mix of reedy tobacco, raspberry and cherry. Choppy but juicy and lively on the finish. A blend of Mazuelo, Syrah and Garnacha.
Cherry and menthol meld with whiffs of forest floor and bramble on this dry, medium bodied Merlot. The palate is pleasant with black fruit and a rustic fall foliage character, but the finish falls short with a hint of bitterness at the end.
Cherry and mild sawdust aromas are brought down by sharpness that is almost vinegar-like. The palate has an acceptable mouthfeel along with sweet and sour flavors of plum and berry. Tart on the finish, and a bit stemmy and sharp throughout.
Cherry and mint flavors are pleasant in this Cab, but green tannins give the palate a harsh feel.
Cherry and mocha on the nose start this wine nicely, and the flavors to follow—cherry, pepper, spice—are balanced and elegant. The tannins are somewhat aggressive and need time to soften. Give the wine 2–5 years and watch it unfold.
Cherry and oak notes are pleasant on this dry and softly tannic wine, but it's watery in style and lacking in concentration.
Cherry and olive aromas are fair and sound, with a minty green touch. This offers a chunky, full palate and oaky, spicy flavors of black plum. The dark, toasty finish is solid, with kick and mild heat.
Cherry and orange please the palate immediately, with a subversive note of peat and forest—it's a good commingling of fruit and exotic savory elements that remain memorable through the lengthy complexity of medium-bodied, velvety texture and weight. This wine is so good now it'd be hard to set it down, but it will reward cellaring, through 2024.
Cherry and pepper are the hallmarks of Zweigelt. Here, they are very aromatic: While muted on the nose, the palate is fresh, lively and very authentic. Merlot adds riper fruit while Blaufränkisch contributes more pepper and structure. This is a very harmonious blend. Lovely now but with the mileage to last a number of years in the cellar. Aromatic cherry fruit echoes on the palate. Drink now until 2020.
Cherry and plum aromas are a touch grassy on this compact but extracted Monastrell. Cherry and black-plum flavors rumble away on a grabby rubbery tannic finish. This is a big loud warm-climate wine where elegance and finesse are not factors.
Cherry and plum aromas are accented by buttery oak, leather and animal notes. Solid in feel with firm tannins, this warm-vintage Tempranillo is ripe, loamy and loaded with berry and cassis flavors. A lightly raisiny finish is friendly and round. Drink through 2019.
Cherry and plum aromas are aggressive. This energetic Malbec is beyond snappy and juicy, while salty plum and currant flavors are racy and edgy. A briny aftertaste and peppery spice flavors dominate a tough finish.
Cherry and plum aromas are basic and candied, while the palate on this Prieto Picudo-based wine is perky and acidic. The flavors run dilute and herbal, with cherry pie and tart raspberry notes. Lingering acidity makes the finish both fresh and sharp.
Cherry and plum aromas are dry, earthy and direct. This is a straightforward aged Rioja with grabby tannins but enough body and fruit to absorb them. Baked cherry and plum flavors are a touch rustic and stalky, while a roasted aftertaste sends this on its way. Drink through 2019.
Cherry and plum aromas are earthy, gritty and not overly potent. The palate is saturated, with the right amount of body weight and volume. There's a blitz of berry and black cherry flavors, backed by a finish that's black in nature and shows mild bitter notes of chocolate and coffee.
Cherry and plum aromas are generic but largely clean. This tastes sweet and buttery, with creamy, lactic notes which accent cherry and berry flavors. A candied tone of residual sugar creates a sticky sensation on the finish.
Cherry and plum aromas are generic. This feels fresh, with a tight grip and resiny oak. Cherry flavors come with grainy, slightly bitter oak notes, while this finishes dry, woody and raw in feel.
Cherry and plum aromas are lean and citrusy, while the palate on this high-reaching Garnacha is loud and raw, with punishing tannins. Plum skin, cherry and oaky coconut flavors finish with heat and aggression. This is not easy to drink at this point; give it until 2016–2017 and revisit.
Cherry and plum aromas are light, generic and clean. This feels mostly right, with moderate acidity creating a solid mouthfeel. Plum, citrus and herbal flavors finish round and balanced.
Cherry and plum aromas are pure and appealing as peppery accents pop up. This is flush and a bit lush, with spiced red plum and oaky chocolate flavors that end dry, elegant and focused. Valle Secreto makes consistently good Syrah; this is one of the winery's best to date. Drink through 2018.
Cherry and plum aromas are ripe, sweet and inviting. There's plenty of body and roundness to this Bonarda, while exotic blueberry and boysenberry flavors finish fresh, with a light herbal aftertaste. Overall this shows lots of fruit and good balance.
Cherry and plum aromas are solid but slightly herbal. A dense, compact palate is a bit heavy as cassis, spicy berry and oak flavors spread out. Medicinal herbal notes are notable on a lush, powerful finish with minty oak.
Cherry and plum aromas carry the mildest touch of stem, yet the palate is reasonably stocky. Cherry and chocolate flavors may seem slightly confected, but given the wine's price it's hard to register many complaints. A creamy and flavorful finish makes this well worth the money.
Cherry and plum aromas come with a dusty note, however things turn sharper and more brambly with airing. It feels citrusy and choppy, with sweet-and-sour flavors of raspberry and red plum. Juicy, but fiery on the finish.
Cherry and plum aromas come with a note of rubbery latex, like a Band-Aid. This feels compact and dense, as if the palate were balled up. Medicinal black cherry and chocolate flavors finish in a bunched blocky mass.
Cherry and plum aromas come with overt notes of sucking candy and schist. In the mouth, this is grabby, raw and tannic, with mild astringency. Cherry, plum and boysenberry flavors run sweet and candied, while the finish is baked, with loamy weight. Drink through 2019.
Cherry and plum aromas dominate the rather basic bouquet of this wine, which has a saucy, barbecued element to it. It shows tannic grip along with flavors of savory berry and barbeque sauce. The finish tastes spicy and roasted, with grip and push.
Cherry and plum aromas lack purity and turn more earthy, horsey and unclean upon airing. Sharp, cutting acidity creates and jagged palate, while flavors of sour black plum and cherry finish with saucy notes on a choppy, short finish.
Cherry and plum aromas lead to a choppy, rubbery-feeling palate. It tastes soupy, herbal and briney.
Cherry and plum, chocolate and peppery herbs combine here in a well-structured wine with some years of life ahead. Aged in one-third new French oak for 11 months, it will reward decanting or aeration if you are drinking it in the next year or two.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are a little scratchy, with accents of toast, leather and roasted meat. The palate, on the other hand, is more lean, driving and citric than in riper years; it's crisp and fresh, with red plum, pie cherry and toasty oak flavors. Clean, lean and ready to drink.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are accented by a spicy, earthy quality in this easy-drinking, well-balanced wine, and the flavors gush with fruit. It's smooth and polished on the palate, medium in body and light in tannin.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are also stalky and gamy, a likely reflection of the 75% Syrah in this blend with Garnacha. A hard, grabby palate holds flavors of herbal plum and grape skins, while an obtuse finish tastes a little green.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are fragile and sketchy but not broken. This value-priced Cabernet shows a midlevel palate with moderate concentration. Herbal plum and raspberry flavors finish easy.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are fresh, clean and simple. A juicy, direct palate brings cherry and plum skin flavors with citric acid for cleansing purposes. This rosé is the definition of a simple summer quaffer.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are lively and inviting. This wine offers plenty of body and good balance for the price. Flavors of candied plum and berry are not complex but have support from density and weight on the finish.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are rubbery and show a fair amount of creamy, artificial-smelling oak. This is chewy and resiny in feel, with jammy flavors of raspberry, plastic and vanilla. Heat and oak are the prime players on a weak finish.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are simple as pie, while this feels a touch astringent and drawing. Tart but fresh plum and raspberry flavors are slightly briny. Juicy and satisfactory on the finish.
Cherry and raspberry aromas are spunky and simple in front of a crisp edgy palate. Medicinal, lightly rubbery flavors of cherry and plum finish with a raw rub, juicy acidity, a lean body and mild heat.
Cherry and raspberry aromas lead the charge, but as it airs out it becomes more raisiny and jammy smelling. The flavors are solid but distant, with simple red fruit, oak and barrel notes setting the pace. Highly drinkable and easygoing but not complex or elevated.
Cherry and red-plum aromas are also horsey, jammy and suggestive of bacon fat. An astringent palate ranks as severely rugged and drawing. Bitter red-plum flavors simmer prior to a hard-tannin finish that's peppery and tart.
Cherry and sautéed morels provide an intriguing introduction to this deeply hued wine, but there are also hints of something funkier, like wet newspaper. On the palate, the pleasing black cherry returns, as does anise, some bitter elements and chewy tannins.
Cherry and spice aromas are fairly oaky and resiny. The palate is also resiny, with drying wood tannins along with clove and generic berry and cherry flavors. Tastes peppery and also like a clove-infused barrel on the finish.
Cherry and strawberry aromas lead this beautifully hued, complex rose'. The palate offers layers of herbal, blackberry and strawberry, with a brisk minerality and spicy finish adding dimension.
Cherry and watermelon aromas are fair and easy, while raspberry and plum-skin flavors finish pithy and citrusy.
Cherry and wild strawberry flavors dominate this fruity wine. It is very fresh with intense acidity and a crisp aftertaste. A few months more in bottle would help it soften.
Cherry aromas and flavors and a velvety texture make this light-bodied wine easy to drink. It has black peppery, woodsy notes in the tart cherry flavors and a sense of being aged and ready to drink.
Cherry aromas are dilute, and overall the bouquet on this Leyda Pinot Noir is limited. Tart, hard, medicinal red-berry flavors are nondistinct and oaky. The finish is raw, hot and lacking in fruit.
Cherry aromas are firm and don't evolve much in the glass. This is intense on the palate, with strong acidity that lends tartness to sinewy plum and berry flavors. Minor accents of spice and toast finish with espresso bitterness. Drink through 2020.
Cherry blossom and wild berries show on the nose of this appellation blend by a longtime boutique producer, who flies far under the radar even within the region. The palate shows plum skin, tart dark berry and barely ripe red-currant flavors, along with ground espresso, juniper and sandalwood.
Cherry candies, grapefruit and watermelon grace the nose. The light-bodied palate shows little intensity and focuses on an underripe strawberry note.
Cherry candy and cola aromas emerge from the nose of this simple, but very bright Ripasso. There's a tiny hint of dried apple skin or citrus at the back and the wine is smooth and lively on the close.
Cherry candy, vanilla liqueur and spearmint rise to the nose of this well priced wine by Steve McClean. Dark chocolate-covered cherries and a prominent black pepper character show on the palate.
Cherry Chap Stick and strawberry jam notes dominate the nose on this rosé of Merlot and Chardonnay. The palate is soft and sweet tasting, and the finish is lightly textured.
Cherry cola accents this bright pretty wine. Fruit flavors emphasize fresh raspberries, backed with tangy acidity and modest tannins. Drink now through 2022.
Cherry cola and cardamom scents start the experience with this blend. A boost of Petite Sirah contributes licorice flavor to the midpalate, and a chocolate cake with mocha frosting flavor to the finish. There's ample grip to the strong tannins, so even though it's already five years old, it will continue to smooth through 2016.
Cherry cola and licorice open the nose of this dark, brooding Brunello. At this young stage, the wine feels slightly sharp and raw in the mouth and it definitely needs another three to five years of cellar aging. Brambly oak and spice give it a zesty and spicy finish.
Cherry cola, licorice, fresh berry fruit, cigar box and smoky tobacco give this wine a bright, albeit slightly rustic, personality. In the mouth, it shows nicely balanced acidity and tannins, providing extra length to the dry, elegant finish.
Cherry cola, vanilla and chocolate perfume this spicy, plush blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. There's a tinge of green on the pulpy, dark-cherry palate, but the finish ends with a twist of tar, granite and spice notes.
Cherry cola, violets and aromas of Dr. Pepper soda lead the way to flavors of tart cherry pie and cherry juice. The tannins are slightly astringent and the finish is pleasantly tart.
Cherry colored and lightly bricked, this wine offers aromas of herbs, orange peel, wet stone and cherry. It drinks dry with fleshy, boozy-seeming fruit flavors.
Cherry compote and a flair of kirsch preside over well-tended acidity in this full-bodied wine. Earthy lavender and herb give the wine an ethereal character atop solid, velvety texture and a big oak finish.
Cherry cordial meets an earthy core of compost and pine forest in this wine from the windswept appellation. Its spicy cardamom and clove seasonings provide tension to contrast its medium build and velvety texture.
Cherry cordial rises to the fore of this rich, thick and full-bodied red blended with 25% Syrah. Velvety in texture, it offers a wealth of meat, dust and chocolate flavors.
Cherry cough-drop aromas are friendly enough. This feels hollow, with quick-hitting plum and cherry flavors. A touch of chocolate dust defines a simple finish.
Cherry cough drop and cassis aromas are red in nature. Dense and compact on the palate, with plum and currant flavors, this finishes with residual tannic rub and increasingly intense berry fruit. Elegance and charm are fleeting.
Cherry cough drop and minerally, almost chlorine aromas lead to an edgy high-acid hard palate. This blend of Carignan, Garnacha and Syrah tastes medicinal and like creamy but fiery red plum. A screechy-feeling, chocolaty-tasting finish leaves an impression.
Cherry cough drop and other red fruit, medicinal aromas set up a standard, fresh palate with racy berry flavors and mild oak as a backdrop. Finishes with good smack, feel and controlled wood notes, but not much complexity or finesse.
Cherry cough drop aromas are candied and ominous. This feels diluted, tastes herbal and green, and finishes minty.
Cherry cough drop, raspberry and minerally aromas settle on the nose. This four-grape blend shows a lively palate that's dry and crisp in feel, with raspberry, plum and red pepper flavors that lead to a tight finish that peters out quickly.
Cherry cough drops in a pleasant way on the nose, and then a medium-berry mouth, spice, light cedar and raspberries—there's a whole lot going on here. Not heavy on the complexity; rather it delivers clean fruit and simple spice.
Cherry flavors turn a bit syrupy, with a sour cherry candy appeal. Acidic and slightly volatile, this tight, chewy wine spent 14 months in 40% new French oak barrels.
Cherry fruit and a tense slate rockiness show on the nose of this blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Syrah, along with a bit of heat. Energetic, juicy plums and black cherries consume the palate, which is rich, lively with acidity and just a tad sweet.
Cherry fruits and firm tannins band well together in this rich wine. It offers spice from light wood aging, a touch of banana, and full forward fruitiness. The structure suggests it needs to age for a year.
Cherry fruits dominate this fresh wine. It has an attractive perfumed character with spice and acidity adding to the light texture and fruitiness. The wine is ready to drink.
Cherry granita, black slate, rose petals and a tinge of sagey herbs combine on this single-clone study by winemaker Clarissa Nagy. The flavors are high toned, tight and quite elegant, with shaved tobacco, black pepper, and clingy acidity, before unleashing an energetic wave of espresso and orange rinds.
Cherry jam and raspberry preserve aromas meet a mélange of sweet baking spice on the nose. The palate shows ample weight supported by sandy tannins, with dark cherry pie flavors leading to a cherry cola finish.
Cherry jam notes are bright on the nose, showing sawdust and menthol tones in the background. A smooth palate with little tannic grip is driven by juicy red currant, accented by a sprinkling of black pepper.
Cherry liqueur akin to kirsch rises aromatically, along with a lavender perfume. Light and high-strung, this is a tightly wound wine, punched in acidity and savory tea. The finish displays bold swathes of oak.
Cherry liqueur and crème de cassis give this Brunello a bright and polished personality. Crisp berry tones are followed by tight, nervous acidity that renders a sharp and steely feel in the mouth. The tannins are firm and compact.
Cherry liqueur, candied rose petals, rhubarb, sweet truffle and wet earth converge for a very sultry and dynamic nose on this bottling, showing that quite a bit of complexity can come from one clone. Well-integrated flavors of dark red fruit, vanilla and nutmeg show on the sip, which is woven together by persistent acidity.
Cherry liqueur, smoke, black pepper, licorice, brown sugar, hummus and steak sauce open the nose of this hearty Amarone. Sweet fruit flavors that recall prune, raisin and currant characterize the close and add a sweet, succulent note to the overall picture.
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.
Cherry pie and cinnamon dominate the aromas. Sweet oaky influences like baking spices and brown sugar come out in the flavors, as a lush texture soothes the palate. This tastes mild in terms of acidity and tannins so it comes off as soft and almost sweet.
Cherry pie and nuanced spice flavors buoy this delicately layered, medium-bodied vineyard designate that's built of robust fruit and supported quietly by oak. A thread of white pepper persists throughout, making it especially irresistible.
Cherry pie aromas kick off the nose of this bottling from a steep hilllside site behind Cambria. Clove, nutmeg and maple-cured bacon notes follow. Blackberry, vanilla and clove flavors glide on the palate, which offers ample tannins and acidity for cellaring, although the wine is delicious now.
Cherry pie, cherry candy and dried ginger notes converge for a very approachable and inviting nose on this bottling from a sprawling vineyard in eastern Paso Robles. It's light in body, but solid red cherry, cedar and smoked chocolate flavors keep it lively.
Cherry red in the glass, this wine has a bouquet of cherry cola and vanilla. It is medium-bodied on the palate, with flavors of black cherry, pomegranate and a final burst of cranberry.
Cherry red, aromatic with scents of crushed roses, strawberries and cherries, this brings a gentle touch of sweetness to the lush fruit flavors. It's pretty as can be, bursting with strawberry fruit, and a very good value. Drink chilled with mild cheeses.
Cherry soda, cherry candy; however you define it, this has a sweet cherry character. Light and fruity, it does offer some black pepper and loam character as well, elevating it above the level of simple soda pop wine.
Cherry soda, mint and crushed almond characterize the nose of this luminous rosé made with the hearty Aglianico grape. The wine is creamy and smooth with fresh berry acidity on the close. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
Cherry spice and earthy compost meet in this well-made, full-bodied wine from a warm vintage. Despite its density and concentration, it's freshened by bright acidity and a streak of cinnamon cola that lasts into the finish.
Cherry stems and red plum aromas show meekly on the nose. This cool-climate Merlot is plush in feel, with soft yet grippy tannins offering support to a palate of fleshy plum and tart currant. A streamlined mineral vein keeps the focus.
Cherry syrup and wet chewing tobacco aromas make for a unique nose. There is good acidity and decent tannic structure, but the dried cherry flavors are quite light for the strong scents.
Cherry tomatoes, black olives, Kalamata olives, green olives, black pepper and dried herbs show on the nose of this zesty wine, done in a lavish not sparse manner. A rainbow of peppercorns pop on the palate, touching on the grape's herbaceous tendencies and showing tagine and tapenade flavors, but with tons of vibrancy and freshness. A well-done version of this flavor profile.
Cherry trees surround the vineyard and it is easy to find those fruit flavors in this wine. Other strong elements are the tannins and structure that allow the fruit to develop slowly. Acidity, black cherries and a layer of spice all go with the dry core. Drink from 2017.
Cherry, berry and sinewy leather make for a memorable experience of fruit and savory accents in this farm-designate that impresses from start to finish. Offering length and breadth, it's balanced despite noticeable ripeness and body.
Cherry, berry and smoke ride atop a sultry texture in this estate wine, 100% varietal. Leathery accents provide texture and additional weight as a buildup to a seamless, easygoing finish rides out.
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.
Cherry, blackberry and cassis aromas are full and friendly, with notes of prune and chocolate seeping through. This feels flush, with lively acidity that keeps things cranking in the right direction. Ripe blackberry and fig flavors finish with composure.
Cherry, blueberry, tea…this combination of Cab Franc from the Finger Lakes, Merlot from Long Island, and Baco Noir from the Hudson Valley is aged 24 months in oak and offers ample spice because of it. The black fruit/red berry is balanced by a minerality and a clean finish.
Cherry, cassis and a cordial-like richness dominate in this medium-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The fruit ripeness is elegantly offset by tobacco, leather and grippy tannin. Drink now through 2020.
Cherry, cassis and a yeasty celebration of grapes mark this wine, which is a majority varietal with small amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. Medium bodied, it's softly approachable and priced to serve for a crowd.
Cherry, cassis and plum aromas are clean as polished glass. This feels fruity and firm, with good flow. Peppery blackberry and minerally cassis are the lead flavors, whiile the finish brings schisty minerality and integrated but noted acidity. Best from 2016–2019.
Cherry, cassis and root beer aromas are appealing. In the mouth, this is wall-to-wall rough due to fierce tannins. Baked berry flavors are blocky and simmer away on a rugged finish.
Cherry, cassis and spice aromas are mild and comported. The wine feels chewy and just dense enough, with baked cassis, berry and herb flavors that finish toasty and hot, with a rubbery note. Clean aromas and full fruit flavors are this wine's best attributes.
Cherry, cassis, leather and mineral aromas make for a lively bouquet. This is round and full on the palate, with welcome division among its layers. Ripe blackberry, fig and chocolate flavors finish lightly baked and heady, showing depth. Drink through 2018.
Cherry, cassis, tomato sauce and crushed leaves are the aromas on this rubbery-feeling Carmenère. Spiced cherry flavors don't show much depth or complexity, while this feels dry and tastes lightly oaky on the finish.
Cherry, chocolate and marshmallow aromas need some airing to show their best. This feels plump but also jumpy and nervy, with no shortage of intensity. Lightly spicy tomato, plum and cherry flavors finish long and dry.
Cherry, chocolate and toast aromas are bright and mildly oaky. This is snappy on the palate, with good energy. Raspberry and briny plum flavors are a touch spicy and finish racy and juicy.
Cherry, cinnamon and vanilla play on the light-bodied, softly layered palate of this estate wine that develops flavor and aroma over time in the glass. Deeper, darker waves of boysenberry enter the picture toward the finish.
Cherry, clove and freesia aromas give way to flavors of cherry, mint, anise and clove. Well-integrated fruit and spice notes, good mouthfeel and tannins that stop just shy of chewy continue to the lasting finish. Mevushal.
Cherry, coffee and spicy cedar starts this masculine Cab from Penns Woods. On the palate, tobacco, red currant and pepper offer savory and sweet elements. The wine is balanced with good acidity and tannins. Pair with smoked ribs, hamburgers.
Cherry, cola and cassis form an inviting entry into this wine, its tannins present and persistent on the front of the palate. Secondary notions of dried herb and cedar play into the mix too. The texture softens in the glass and through the finish.
Cherry, cola and pomegranate flavors mark this dry, silky Pinot Noir. It's a little soft and simple.
Cherry, cough drop, mineral, heat and red licorice on the nose, with medicinal raspberry and plum flavors. Snappy and fresh in the mouth, with a rooty finish touched up by vanilla. Flavorful and properly executed, with a slight intrusion of cherry cough medicine.
Cherry, dry spice and leather aromas are detectable on an otherwise lean and dilute nose. Like the bouquet, the palate on this basic Malbec is thin. Flavors of generic berry fruits finish earthy and scratchy.
Cherry, leather and dried cheese aromas set up a mildly lactic palate, with flavors of cassis, cherry and oak-based butter. It feels good on the finish, with fruit and oak flavors.
Cherry, leather, tobacco, licorice and chocolate-dipped strawberries combine into a heady nose on this single-vineyard bottling from the Grenache-focused winery. Tongue-tingling acidity runs through flavors of balsamic vinegar and strawberry extract, all held together by steady tannins. It's quite a full presentation of the grape.
Cherry, licorice, stemmy spice, turned earth and Earl Grey tea elements show on the nose of this wine from a vineyard west of the Sta. Rita Hills and only six miles from the Pacific Ocean. It's light in body, with flavors of thyme, pepper spice, kalamata olive and cranberry fruit proving tart and tight.
Cherry, pepper and spice on the nose are followed by similar flavors in this dry red. Balanced and touched with oak, the wine will pair well with grilled meats and spiced dishes. For fans of softer wines, age this for a few years before drinking.
Cherry, pepper and warming spices lead on the red from Virginia. On the palate, cedar, spice and pepper are delivered in a big package. Pair with grilled meat, spicy cuisine.
Cherry, plum and balsam-wood aromas make for a good opening. This wine feels full, with cheek-grabbing tannins. Flavors of woodspice, cherry and plum hold appeal, but this feels a bit hot on the finish, with residual oak.
Cherry, plum and earth aromas form a sound bouquet. This Merlot is full, round and well balanced. Flavors of black fruits are helped along by integrated spice and earth tones, while the finish shows ripeness and a smooth texture.
Cherry, plum and earth aromas lead into a tart, lean palate that struggles to offer more than a modicum of cherry and cassis flavors. The finish is sweet and spicy, which makes for an odd, not terribly appealing combination.
Cherry, plum and oak aromas are more subtle than forced. This is mostly Syrah and Carignan, with some Cab Franc and Petit Verdot. Dark, peppery, toasty black-fruit flavors finish full and grabby, with notes of cassis, herbs and spice. Drink through 2018.
Cherry, plum and oaky aromas of vanilla work well together on this tight, slightly clampy and acidic Gran Reserva that's still showing youthful tannic pull. Ripe plum and spice flavors hint at raisin, while this finishes with grabby tannic intensity. Drink this through 2022.
Cherry, plum and raspberry aromas are basic but clean. This is a midlevel, good wine with a medium body and nothing abrasive or biting. Modest flavors of chunky berry fruits finish loamy and earthy.
Cherry, plum and raspberry aromas cover the red end of the aromatic spectrum. A wide, tannic, grabby body and earthy flavors of raspberry and baked plum finish bold and choppy, with freshening acidity.
Cherry, plum and spice aromas are lively, but the palate is highly citric and acidic. Short, drying sour cherry and plum flavors turn hot, peppery and ultimately bitter on the finish.
Cherry, plum and vanilla aromas and flavors ride a dusty texture in this wine that's beset by astringent tannin and wisps of dried herb.
Cherry, plum, bacon and licorice are all good aromas that indicate that this value wine has quality backing it up. The palate is fresh and clean, with depth and ripe, slightly oaked flavors of cassis, blackberry and chocolate. Easy to like, with toasty touches throughout.
Cherry, plum, berry and cassis aromas are standard and well presented. A full, approachable and balanced palate is home to ripe flavors of blackberry and cassis. For the price, this wine is generous, balanced and lasting.
Cherry, plum, spice and a pungent touch of dried apple skin gives the bouquet a bright, immediate feel. In the mouth, this fine Amarone delivers tight tannins and fresh intensity.
Cherry, plum, vanilla and mild oak aromas feed into a medium-bodied, elegant palate with plum and cherry flavors supported by a touch of toasty oak and vanilla. Notes of café mocha and toast grace a crisp finish that isn't trying too hard.
Cherry, raspberry and candied aromas announce a plump but bland palate with sweet, candied flavors of red fruits. These turn slightly harsh before finishing with good feel and controlled bitterness.
Cherry, raspberry and cocoa aromas set up a full-bodied palate with juicy acidity and all sorts of red-berry flavor that's both bright and medicinal in character. It falls on the ripe and ready side, with bold fruit and a peppery, spicy finish.
Cherry, raspberry and spicy oak aromas open this chunky, standard Rioja. Roasted plum and currant flavors turn more oaky on the back side, while the finish feels fresh and tastes lightly spicy.
Cherry, raspberry and vanilla combine for an inviting mix of ripeness and sweet bouquet. A fruity component also sits nicely atop this structured wine marked by soft, fine tannins. The finish is robust in black pepper and clove.
Cherry, raspberry compote, anise, vanilla, wood spice and medicine-cabinet aromas are followed by lighter styled fruit and savory flavors, with the tannins bringing some grip.
Cherry, raspberry, herb and tomato aromas correctly announce a tightly clamped palate. Herbal plum and raspberry flavors are maintained on a tight, unbreakable finish. This is staunch and tight, with more than enough herbal character.
Cherry, red apple, Indian spice, cedar and mesquite wood come forward to shape a gorgeous wine with extraordinary density and persistency. The tannins are polished and firm and there's enough natural sweetness to make this a chewy and succulent wine, sip after sip.
Cherry, red currant and minerally aromas are fresh and appealing. This blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Cabernet Sauvignon is pure and lithe on the palate, while toasty, minerally berry and cherry flavors finish dry, focused and with notes of licorice, cocoa and herbs. This succeeds by offering a little bit of everything good; drink through 2019.
Cherry, red plum and soft herbs lead the nose of this Cabernet, followed by glimmers of chocolate and light coffee. The palate is plush and mouthfilling, but not flabby or overdone, with ripe fruit flavors that linger on the clean finish. Mevushal.
Cherry, rubber and leather aromas are tight and announce a punchy, bright, raw palate with raspberry and plum flavors. Snappy and rubbery feeling on the finish, this is a fresh Monastrell with red-fruit tendencies.
Cherry, sage, blackberry and white pepper mingle to make a refreshing and rounded wine ideal for uncomplicated pleasure. Drink now, preferably with canapés or a light lunch where its beautiful and resonant aftertaste of red cherry will impress.
Cherry, smoke, spice, cola aromas, very complex and clean, lead to a real bite of tart acidity on the palate. This sting should mellow out with some months of age, allowing the pretty fruit and dry, polished tannins to show through.
Cherry, spice and vanilla on the nose are followed by flavors of cherry, pepper, and spicy sausage on the palate. Smooth, balanced and easy drinking, this is a good go-to red with a slightly exotic spin.
Cherry, spicebox, pepper and some vegetal aromas are followed by flavors of blueberry, toast and cherry. This is an approachable Greek red with bright fruit and good acidity. A spicy finish adds to the appeal. Pair with game and pork.
Cherry, strawberry and baking spices combine in this medium-bodied wine that offers texture and soft, supple layers of refreshing acidity.
Cherry, strawberry and boysenberry fruit tones dance on the nose and mouth of this ripe, attractive wine. Shadings of bramble and sweet spice add depth to the fresh and lively palate, ending clean and mouthwatering. Drink now–2016.
Cherry, strawberry and light candied aromas are good but basic. This feels full and creamy, with oak, dry spice, cinnamon and earthy red-berry flavors. Spice notes and a flat, chunky feel define the finish.
Cherry, sweet berry and citrus peel aromas come in front of a full, slightly oaky palate with sweet plum and berry flavors. There's some length to the finish and more flavors of sweet, creamy but nicely applied oak.
Cherry, tea, spice and citrus peel aromas lead to a balanced palate. This tastes of citrus, raspberry, spiced plum and lightly buttered oak. A creamy sense carries over to the finish, but mostly this is lively and solid.
Cherry, vanilla and liqueur notes show on the nose of this wine, which starts off with very dense aromas but shows zesty cherry skins too. It's juicy and spicy on the palate, with relatively light body and a boisterous acidity, proving quite appropriate for everyday drinking.
Cherry, violet and herbal aromas introduce a tangy, angular palate with sharp acidity. Quick-hitting, fresh flavors of pie cherry, red currant and raspberry finish grabby, with scouring acidity. Drink through 2020.
Cherrylike aromas and crisp red cherry and cranberry flavors give this medium-bodied wine a tart and lean personality. It has firm tannins and a slightly astringent finish.
Chervil, lovage, watercress and yeast swirl headily on the nose. The palate subsumes these in a tight, taut, savory core of immense energy and power. There is muscle and tone, power and punch. If you are looking for a superlatively spicy, long-lived Grüner, this is the one to get. Underneath you will find notions of stone and earth that anchor this firmly. The finish is clean and long. Drink 2017–2020.
Cheval des Andes brings together Cheval Blanc from St.-Emilion with Terrazas de los Andes, and for the past few years it has been the leader in Bordeaux-style wines from Argentina. The 2004 shows serious barrel notes framing classic aromas of aged gouda, saddle leather, mushroom and concentrated berries. The palate is structured, mildly tannic and layered with blackberry, cassis, raisin and licorice flavors. It's good now or will age nicely for another four to six years.
Chevalier's second white wine reflects some of the glory of the first. It has a Sauvignon-dominated flavor, certainly with herbaceousness. But the fruit is ripe, full in the mouth, a teasing combination of green fruits, kiwi fruit and wonderful juiciness. With its edge of minerality, it could age for 2–3 years.
Chewing-gum aromas struggle to stay clean and fresh. This rosé feels rubbery and raw. Herbal flavors include juniper berry and finish with almost no fruit.
Chewing gum and generic citrus aromas are basic. This wine feels flat, with little spunk. Fruitless, dried-out flavors are bland on the finish.
Chewing gum and light berry aromas come with a floral note. Crystal clear and lean on the palate, this tastes of mild citrus fruits and peach pit. Dry on the finish, with a nip of grapefruit.
Chewing gum dust, red plum and cherry aromas define the bouquet on this racy, slightly abrasive feeling Malbec. Things taste short and snappy, with red fruit flavors backed by peppery dryness.
Chewing gum, dry wood and generic berry aromas precede an honest palate with modest tannins. Slightly herbal black-fruit flavors are peppery but nonspecific. A steady but chunky finish is the final act.
Chewing gum, plum and raspberry aromas are raw and suggestive of grape skins. The wine is juicy but without much body or spine. Flavors of generic red fruits and watermelon finish rubbery and slightly bitter. Drink in 2014.
Chewy and delicious, this doles out aromas and flavors of fleshy wild cherry, ripe raspberry, truffle, star anise and pipe tobacco. Round velvety tannins provide support and lend a smooth texture. It's already enjoyable but will age well for several more years. Drink through 2023.
Chewy and packed with flavors of dark chocolate, espresso and a bit of cracker, this retains focus as it punches through to a tasty finish. The black-cherry fruit is cloaked in the dark accents listed above, and has the muscle to stand up to blackened seafood and smoked meats.
Chewy and robust in tannins, this was given a year in French oak barrels, 35% of it new. The oak is still working its way through the fruit, which includes Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Jammy in thick raspberry and plum, it features a dose of chocolate on the finish.
Chewy and tannic, this has plenty of barrel flavors, but is light on the fruit. Coffee, caramel and toasty components are all here, seeming to smother any ripe fruit that might fill out the middle.
Chewy and tannic, this rugged wine puts Pinot in Cabernet clothing. The black-cherry fruit carries a streak of cola, and a slight sense of rubber in the finish.
Chewy tannins and tart acids buttress the midpalate's broad berry flavor. The fruit seems to thin out on the finish, concluding with more bone and muscle than succulent flesh. Pairing this with a rare burger would help tame the structural components.
Chewy tannins give this wine a rustic edge, but the black cherry fruit and notes of fresh-cut tobacco are authentic to the variety. The finish is mouth-drying, which would make it just right with a fat cut of beef.
Chewy tannins make this Pinot Noir feel hard in the mouth. On the plus side is a dense core of raspberries and cherries, as well as a rich appliqué of smoky oak. Try aging it until 2017 to let it mellow.
Chewy tannins surround an elegant, structured wine, classic in red cassis, licorice and woody herbs. Powerful, it retains balance from start to finish, exuding the warmth of the vintage with the relative coolness of the appellation, marrying the two sides expertly together.
Chewy, chunky, a little buttery and full of milk chocolate, this crowd pleaser is a good introduction to Tuscan Sangiovese. It will work well with simple dishes like pizza and pasta. It's young and gawky, like a teenager going through adolescence.
Chewy, earthy and tannic, this rather awkward wine matches cranberry and black cherry hard candy fruit to a rough, stemmy underbelly. There is some leather and barnyard in the middle; all in all it's a bit of a rough ride.
Chewy, rich and dense, this is redolent of ripe blackberry, plum, prune and moist pipe tobacco. There's also a pretty floral tone that gives the wine an almost feminine personality. It's tight and firmly structured as well.
Chewy, tannic, with a streak of burnt rubber and plastic. The fruit is thin and the wine smoky.
Chianti Rufina Fattoria di Vetrice opens with easy spice and raspberry aromas with distant notes of blue flower and earth. It's a thin, fresh and approachable wine overall.
Chiara Lungarotti says that this vintage of her vineyard-designate Riserva represents a milestone for her family run estate. Indeed, this is a rich and elegant red wine that shows signature notes of wild berry and spice that reflect her beloved territory: Umbria.
Chiarlo tends to be one of the more reliable producers in Piedmont, and this comes across as a pleasant everyday wine. The fruit is very ripe, bordering on the superripe; but on the palate, the wine has some interesting flavors, dark cherry fruit and hints of licorice and green olive.
Chignin is one of the cru villages of Savoie. This wine is crisp, mineral and tight, with delicate layers of lemon and grapefruit acidity. Lively and bursting with fruit, it's ready to drink.
Chile's first high-profile, high-priced Carmenère has proven itself to be an excellent wine. The '05 has a slight herbal DNA, but there's plenty of oak, vanilla, raw fruit and texture to cover that up. On the palate, blackberry, prune and fine herbs comprise the flavors, while the finish turns thick and dense. With 8% Petit Verdot, Purple Angel continues to press the case for high-end Chilean Carmenère.
Chilean wine folk have been saying that we should watch Limarí for cool-climate Chardonnay. This example is clean and medium-weight, with aromas of apple and pear. The acidity is high and scouring, yet some creamy oak and resin moderate any lean qualities. Could stand to be a touch less resiny but still it ranks as nice Chilean Chardonnay. Imported by Ecovalley Quality Wine Group and National Refrescos Import Company, LLC.
Chilean winemakers liked 2013 for its coolness, and this Malbec-Carmenère blend shows racy acidity as its defining component. Aromas of blackberry and plum are floral and smoky. High acidity makes for a tight, pulling palate with flavors of red plum and oak spice. A muscular finish is still pumping with acidity, so this stays bold to the end; drink through 2030.
Chilled tangerines and honeysuckle show on the interesting nose of this bottling, along with a pleasant touch of baked apple. The palate offers black lime and kaffir lime leaves, plus a yellow-apple-flesh component in the midpalate.
Chimney Rock continues a successful string of vintages with this powerful '05. It's a distinguished wine that calls to mind the description of Stags Leap Cabernet as an iron fist in a velvet glove. Rich and full-bodied, it has lush flavors of black currants and smoky new oak. Easy to find, with 28,000 cases produced. Drink now through 2012.
Chimney Rock had 3 Bordeaux-style wines from the '04 vintage, and this reserve is not only the priciest, but the best. It shows the appealing blackberry, cherry and chocolate fruit and oak of the Elevage bottling, but also is tannicly balanced enough for the cellar. Good now for its complexity, but should peak around 2010, then hold through 2015.
Chipped slate and wet-clay minerality give depth to the baked strawberry, black plum and rose-petal aromas on the nose of this single-vineyard study by Brian Loring. Similar earthiness descends on the palate, with a slow-simmering acidity allowing the juicy black fruit to steadily emerge.
Chipped slate, hot bricks, smoked red cherries and a flinty gunmetal character show on the nose of this clonal study from this longtime regional producer. The palate boasts tons of sagebrush and thyme that give pleasant spice to the black olive, turned earth and raspberry juice flavors.
Chippy aromas are spicy, with oak and berry support lying low. This multigrape blend is tough, bumpy and chewy in feel, while herbal minty green-leaning berry flavors end with density, chewy tannins and an echo of oak.
Chiroubles is highest of the Beaujolais cru villages, producing wines with good structure. This wine, with its firm tannins, shows some aging potential. It has acidity and ripe red-plum flavors over a dry core. Drink from 2017.
Chiseled and spunky, this slightly older Riesling shows complex slate, lime zest and wet stone notes on the nose while intense stone fruits dominate the palate. Drink now.
Chiseled aromas of lemon-lime and spring flowers are lean but clean, and that pretty much describes this blend of Treixadura, Torrontés and Palomino. Lime and green banana are the key flavors, and the finish brings back lemon-lime and minerality. More basic than flashy, but nice in a neutral way.
Chitry lies just outside the Chablis appellation area, giving a wine that has some of the classic steely character but is more rounded and less focused. Pleasing Chardonnay, finishes with an attractive vanilla touch.
Chive and onion skin aromas blend with hints of mint, marcona almond and vanilla on the nose of this bottling from winemaker Bruce McGuire. From one of Pierre Lafond's special sites, it has a savory palate that recalls salted peanuts, seared lemon and popcorn on the finish. Lemony acidity cuts through it all.
Chloé is a good representation of Vincent Couche's style of wine. With ripe fruit coming from the Aube, it offers well-balanced dryness, giving a rich wine that has an orange tang as well as a steely aftertaste. It is ready to drink, although it will benefit for keeping in bottle until the end of 2015.
Chocapalha's everyday red is soft, fruity and already delicious to drink. It has some richness and weight from the red fruits, but the acidity and the smooth texture make it so approachable.
Chock-a-block full of strawberry, black cherry and a sliver of orange peel, this wine is big-boned, well-structured and fleshy. Mouthfilling and juicy, the palate shows touches of black tea and tobacco, making for a lively tension between the earthiness and exuberance of fruit. Drink now through 2022.
Chocolate-cherry and mocha fill the air and palate in this densely delicious inaugural offering from a new estate, set in the heart of the appellation. At this sister property of the PlumpJack and Cade wineries, with the same owners, there's no skimping on quality. The wine is medium in weight and lengthy, subtle in oak and integrated tannin, with a lovely finish.
Chocolate-covered cherry and plum surround a shock of stark acidity on this wine that has a round and soft palate. On the finish, a touch of astringency flirts with cedar.
Chocolate-covered cherry and vanilla aromas are an alluring start to this sultry Merlot. On the palate, soft, integrated waves of black cherry, vanilla and balsamic are followed by a clean berry finish. A mellow sip with class.
Chocolate-covered raspberry forms the luscious core of this fairly priced wine that's medium-bodied, moderately naked in its oak use and soft in its approachability. Rich, dense and luxurious, it will pair well with any grilled meats.
Chocolate-covered strawberry meets rich brown sugar and cola notes in this medium-bodied wine that's moderately structured and round. It finishes in a plume of subtle smoky oak.
Chocolate-wrapped stogie comes to mind aromatically and in terms of taste in this reserve wine, which is otherwise roundly voluptuous. Peppercorn, cedar and plum mingle on the palate before a tannic finish closes things out.
Chocolate and bitter cherries dominate this full-on wine, packed with spice and toasty wood flavors. In mouthfeel, it is very rich, smooth, dense and velvety at the same time.
Chocolate and bitter coffee show the way this wine has been extracted, leaving a hard edge that currently dominates the red berry fruits. It needs time to soften, so wait until 2017.
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.
Chocolate and blackberry scents meet smoky cigar in this full-bodied and lush expression of the grape. Richly layered and complex with dried herb and pepper streaks, it shows equal parts grace and power.
Chocolate and blueberry highlight a high-octane experience of soft, candied flavor in this leathery, juicy wine from the producer's estate. Full-bodied and ripe, it displays the bold rusticity of the variety.
Chocolate and caramel brace themselves against a crisper note of spearmint in this thick and near-syrupy wine, built with tremendous structure and weight, the finish somewhat puckering in coconut flakes.
Chocolate and charcoal aromas form a dark and masculine greeting. There's also coffee and an herbal note to the nose. Lush but not heavy, tannic or plodding, with powerful black fruit and herbal flavors. Runs deep and long on the finish; impressive.
Chocolate and coffee aromas go with the characteristic burnt character of a rich Madeira. It is a sweet wine, although never far from the acidity that keeps it well away from being cloying. It is a beautiful wine that still has all its freshness and fragrant fruit.
Chocolate and dark cherry aromas lead to ripe plum, boysenberry and blackberry flavors that are almost sweet, very rich and full bodied. The thick texture melts in your mouth, having soft tannins. This drinks almost like a Port and should be great with chocolate or cheese.
Chocolate and licorice flavors dominate this solid, foursquare yet austere wine. Its offers firm fruit, with a dense texture of black currant and red plum. Acidity and a spice note set off the finish.
Chocolate and licorice flavors give a bitter character. It has some fruit but it's really the structure that is talking at the moment. The aftertaste is juicier.
Chocolate and mint notes combine effortlessly in this straightforward appellation wine, accented with rose, cherry and rhubarb. It features moderate acidity, thick tannins and weight.
Chocolate and plum flavors abound in syrupy concentration in this rich, round and ripe wine. Blended with small amounts of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petite Sirah, it finishes on a brawny black cherry jam note.
Chocolate and plum mingle enticingly in this medium-bodied offering from the warm (relative to Willamette) Umpqua Valley. Subtle herb notes and a peppery, crisp finish keep this wine interesting from start to finish.
Chocolate and prune aromas and flavors come across as somewhat generic, then finish on a drying, astringent note.
Chocolate and raspberry join forces in this jammy, soft and round wine that's sizable yet approachable. This is a good go-to for midweek meals and parties, with a medium body and respectable finish that will pair with a wide range of foods.
Chocolate aromas dominate this richly endowed wine. It offers black chocolate flavors as well, plus powerful tannins and juicy acidity. Dense and full bodied, its wood flavors still show through the rich fruit. Drink from 2017.
Chocolate graham cracker and a Port-like aroma of ripeness dominate in this wine, which adds in Carignane and Petite Sirah. Good acidity and a softness of texture complete the picture.
Chocolate milk, with a squeeze of cassis liqueur and the sweet vanillins of toasted oak, are the flavors. With the high alcohol, it's almost a dessert wine. Give it credit for a heady opulence.
Chocolate mocha and black fruit define this full-bodied, robustly made and oaked wine from a mountain appellation. Moderate acidity helps cut through the generous tannin and rich ripeness, finding a brushy dried sage note along the way.
Chocolate notes fill the aroma of this rich, luscious wine, and blackberry jam and maple syrup flavors follow on the palate. It's sweet, soft and full bodied and may be just the thing to quiet down an especially spicy Korean barbecue.
Chocolate, a hint of mint, spice and black fruit make this a true-smelling Syrah. The flavors run a little bit red, i.e. raspberry and red plum, and the finish offers a smack of oak along with dried fruit flavors. More of an acid-based, lively style.
Chocolate, cherries and baking spices make up the flavors of this layered and tasty wine. The color is dark, the texture is nicely astringent due to assertive tannins, and it conveys a sense of something held in reserve.
Chocolate, cherry and coconut flavors make this mild-mannered wine inviting and luxurious. It shows soft tannin, plenty of toasted oak and a succulent finish.
Chocolate, cherry, blackberry and clove linger long on the nose and open the door to more layered nuances of ripe red fruit to come. This is a sun-kissed wine with plush softness, dusty tannins and a sophisticated personality shaped by 18 months of wood aging in barrique and oak casks.
Chocolate, cherry, spice and wood shavings are the leading aromas emitted from this hearty Cabernet Sauvignon. Despite its power, it is a beautiful wine with lasting herbal fragrances splashed over tight, firm tannins. This is a big, brawny wine that could overpower many foods, so pair it with grilled beef or roasts.
Chocolate, cigar, clove and cedar unfurl slowly on the nose and palate of this wine, a rare variety for the appellation, but one to which the producer remains committed. Fruity currant and black raspberry season the firm, integrated tannin and nuanced oak, with a sizzle of acidity as it lingers on the finish. This wine should age well through 2023, and is enjoyable now.
Chocolate, coconut, plum and coffee aromas lead the nose on this densely concentrated wine. The monolithic palate offers black cherry, chocolate-covered coconut and oak alongside astringent tannins that dry out the mouth.
Chocolate, coffee and espresso come to life thanks to the solid base of natural fruit that keeps the wine lively and fresh. Fruit and oak-related aromas work well together and give the wine brightness, softness and a velvety texture.
Chocolate, coffee and sweet plum notes give this wine great richness. It has wood that needs time to integrate, although the main character is beautiful, velvet-textured, ripe fruit and plenty of sweet tannins.
Chocolate, elderberry, roast beef and purple flower notes emerge on the complex nose of this bottling. Richer blackberry and black currant flavors show on the palate, with touches of soy, char and sugar plum, proving quite savory all around.
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.
Chocolate, mocha and coconut notes highlight this wine's lush, soft tannins that grow chalky as they firm. Cedar, pencil shaving and saddle leather notes complement its voluptuous ripeness.
Chocolate, mocha and espresso mark this big, bold and full-bodied wine that includes a touch of Petit Verdot in the mix. Smoky and smooth, it's ready for cigars or hearty winter platters.
Chocolate, plum and mocha make for an inviting entry to this wine. Cedar and gun flint season a smooth wall of youthful, polished tannin and integrated oak, with a lengthy finish.
Chocolate, sweet spice, tobacco, leather and dark berry fruit give this Brunello a bold and impactful first impression. When it comes to the mouthfeel, the wine plays a more subtle game with polished tannins, mild cherry fruit and a bright point of fresh acidity.
Chocolate, tobacco and new leather aromas make a dramatic first impression for this full-bodied and comparatively smooth wine. Then very deep dark fruit hits the palate along with smoky, peppery nuances accompanied by a just-tannic-enough texture. It will be great to drink alongside some smoked brisket.
Chocolaty and malty to start with, then more meaty, rubbery and traditional on the nose. The palate is round and just right in feel, while the palate is meaty, layered and savory, with juicy acidity and savory undercurrents. Cutting and food-friendly, and very well-made for a $10 wine.
Chocolaty and spicy, loaded with cinnamon and anise, and backed by sturdy plum-flavored fruit. The mouthfeel is creamy and rich; the finish, long and oaky.
Chocolaty aromas and ample spicy, dark-fruit flavors power this generous and firm-textured wine. Everything seems in place and in balance, ready to take on a nice roast or braise.
Chocolaty oak aromas rest heavily atop notes of scrub brush, briar patch and red fruits. This Pinot feels juicy but scouring and grating. Flavors of buttery oak, plum and raspberry are both woody and tart, while this is punchy on the finish. Give this another year or two and it may knit together better than now.
Chocolaty, this fun blend of 56% Zinfandel, 31% Petite Sirah, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot hails from estate, dry-farmed vineyards. Big, mountainous tannins soften in the glass to reveal juicy notes of dark and red cherry.
Chono is one of the better Chilean rosé wines we've come across. It has that Mediterranean look, smell and flare to it. The color is attractive, the nose fresh and clean, and the flavors of orange and fine herbs are crisp and on the spot. Good for this summer.
Choosing favorites among Kumeu River's Chardonnays is always difficult. The 2013 Maté's is potentially the longest lived of this year's releases, showcasing tight, crisp citrus fruit garnished with hints of butter, tropical fruit and mocha-like oak. Drink 2018–2025.
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.
Chopped herb, fragrant blue flower, woodland berry and menthol aromas take center stage in this vibrant red. On the palate, clove and star anise notes underpin red cherry, cranberry and tobacco flavors. A hint of orange zest marks the finish while refined tannins and bright acidity provide the framework.
Chopped herb, fragrant purple flower, dark spice and balsamic aromas come together on this. The concentrated, full-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, dried plum, nutmeg, anise and mineral while firm velvety tannins provide support.
Chopped herb, pine, forest floor and balsamic notes follow through to the palate, rich in vibrant red cherry, cranberry, star anise and white pepper notes. It's still tightly wound, with compact tannins and fresh acidity. Give it time to develop more depth and complexity. Drink 2022–2032.
Chopped herb, underbrush, truffle and balsamic notes lead the nose. The palate is fresh, vibrant and polished, offering sour cherry fruit with a hint of licorice. A sage note closes the finish.
Chopped herb, white spring flower and yellow stone fruit aromas jump out of the glass. The rich, frothy palate offers candied nectarine zest, apricot and lemon drop set against a soft, foaming perlage.
Chopped herb, wild berry, spice and truffle aromas slowly take shape in the glass. The palate shows both concentration and elegance, offering fleshy raspberry, crushed cherry, licorice and crushed mint flavors, bolstered by firm but refined tannins. Drink 2019–2027.
Chopped herbs, licorice and a bit of smoke lead the nose on this affordable wine. It's thinner on the palate, with more licorice that spices up the red fruit flavors. The finish shows some tannic grip.
Chopped herbs, white almond and citrus zest aromas take shape on this luminous wine. The vibrant palate offers yellow apple, grapefruit and mineral alongside racy acidity and a persistent perlage. An almond note backs up the finish.
Chopped mint, menthol, blue flower and red berry aromas take the lead in this wine. The taut palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, star anise and ground clove flavors alongside fine-grained tannins.
Chopped mint, new leather, forest floor and spiced plum aromas take shape in the glass. The ripe, juicy palate doles out fleshy black cherry, raspberry jam, clove and licorice notes, supported by big, rounded tannins. It's already accessible and seriously delicious. Drink through 2022.
Choppy plum and berry aromas are mildly raw and herbaceous, but not overly so. Round and standard in feel, this Malbec tastes of creamy, herbal berry fruits that turn slightly green and oaky. Peppery, medicinal, herbal flavors drive the finish.
Chorey-lès-Beaune, on the plain just north of Beaune, can offer—as here—good value for Burgundy. This wine, still showing some young austerity, has the potential to develop into a bold, fruity selection that will always have a firmer structured edge.
Chorey vineyards, on the plain close to Beaune, often produce good-value wines. This attractive wine is a good example from an uneven vintage. It has structure and fruit, maybe not enough, along with a fresh, tangy character. It is developing fast, so drink from 2017.
Chosen from a selection of parcels, this dense and complex wine has layers of firm tannins that a give a dry, tough core. Underneath, the juicy, currant and berry fruits need to spring to life. Give this concentrated wine until 2017.
Chremisa is the Roman name for Krems. This wine is more modern in its clean, bright fruits. There are also minerality, orange peel and lemon and white peach flavors.
Chris Gorman's “Devil” project includes this juicy, fruity red blend, based mostly upon Bordeaux grapes. The forward cherry-berry flavors push through with some power into a chocolate-malted explosion with peppery highlights.
Chris Gorman is the winemaker for this pure, old vine Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a full force gale of a wine, sappy and dense, with blackberry and cassis fruit wreathed in smoke and dark accents from aging in 100% new French oak. Young, big and bold, it remains poised and balanced, with juicy acidity keeping all the flavors in proportion.
Christian Moueix's new property is already showing its potential. In the second vintage under his control, it is producing a huge, dense wine, with black cherry juice, blackberry and bitter cocoa flavors. The wine's structure is firm and solid, but with the potential over the next 4–5 years of revealing a more generous side.
Christian Veyry (formerly with Michel Rolland) oversees the fifth-generation family estate's winemaking at the Châteaux Solidaires cooperative. Ripe black fruit dominate this generous wine. It has structure as well, giving a dense texture. Berry flavors and acidity are well to the front. Drink from 2018.
Christine Saahs is a believer that high alcohol is not a necessity for a powerful, rich wine. And this proves her point. There is weight here, intensity, but the lower alcohol gives the wine poise and delicacy. It stays fresh, and will age with that freshness intact. Keep for another 4–5 years.
Christmas-like aromas of juniper, pine and forest floor hit the nose hard on this bottling from the historic vineyard, all leveled by fresh squeezed pomegranate juice, wild sweet mint and pencil shavings. A woody character reminiscent of uncured sandalwood powers the palate, which also shows cranberry juice and pipe tobacco in the background.
Christophe and Fabien Vincent are focused on picking the right soils for their grapes. It takes a while. In this vintage, initially this wine is not showing much. It then opens with a tight, herbal character. It is refreshing, tangy and textured with its green plum and green-herb flavors. The wine is ready to drink.
Christophe Perrot-Minot makes this wine from a parcel of the vineyard that is declassified grand cru. It's opulent and generous, yet it's also minerally and fresh. The sumptuous Chambolle feel is still to come as the wine rounds out and loses its youthful tannins. Age for at least seven years.
Chronos is the winery's Bordeaux-style blend, composed of half Cabernet Sauvignon and one-quarter each Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Sharp and peppery, it shows the tight, tart, herbal side of the grapes, amplified somewhat by the cool vintage. Berry, plum, fig and dark chocolate are the principal flavors, all in good proportion.
Chryseia is a benchmark wine in modern Douro table wine making. With its layered tannins, black currant fruit, minerality and stylish yet powerful structure, this is a wine of great stature, needing aging for 2–3 years.
Chuck Reininger sources the fruit for this wine from what is arguably the best site in the Walla Walla Valley. The wine does not shy away from the herbal aspect for which Carmenère is known, but the stemminess is mitigated thanks to the influence of new French oak. A cherry candy note consolidates the flavors on the medium-long finish.
Chumash tribe descendent and Fresno State-trained winemaker Tara Gomez uses her extensive experience to make a solid lineup of wines. This one holds dense aromas of boysenberry extract, Dr Pepper, toast, condensed cedar and beef char. Elderberry is the dominant fruit flavor, showing both woodiness and dark purple fruit.
Chunky and a bit dull smelling, with apple, melon and peach aromas. Papaya and green melon flavors seem to be flattening with age, and the finish is long but nondescript. Drink now or wait for the '09. Imported by Alamos USA.
Chunky and a bit hard-edged, this Shiraz combines plum and vanilla notes with hints of cocoa and black olive. There's some richenss here, it just needs a few years to emerge. Try 2012-2017.
Chunky and clunky on the nose, and unlike previous vintages, this one requires more patience and a willingness to overlook some flaws. For starters, the wine has a milky nose. It's frankly gaseous and bretty. But give it time to unwind and blackberry and standard plum flavors step in. The finish is easygoing, but all along there's a narrowness to it. Good but not as good as in the past.
Chunky and earthy on the nose, which is big but undistinguished. The palate is tight and high in acid, while the flavors of wood, mint and roasted berry fruits come with pepper and herbal accents. Dry and basic on the finish.
Chunky and fruit forward, this opens with scents of roses and cherries, and cherry fruit is the most striking impression on the palate. There's a light suggestion of leather also, and sharp, finishing acidity.
Chunky and fruity, this offers broad flavors of black cherry cola, with a dark, toasty edge. It's open and bold, Pinot done in a rustic yet quite flavorful style.
Chunky and generic smelling, with a nutty, oily palate that isn't purely focused or clean. The palate has some bitterness and excess weight along with fading lychee and melon flavors. Not a terrible wine for $9 but the low price doesn't erase its flaws.
Chunky and loud on the nose, with olive, oak resin and candied black fruit aromas. Feels astringent and drawing, with herbal plum and roasted berry flavors that are tart in the middle. Staunch, grabby and tight on the finish.
Chunky and murky on the nose, with melon and papaya aromas. Feels round but light in the center, with vanilla, pear and melon flavors. Fleshy and simple on the finish.
Chunky and oily on the nose, with basic white fruit aromas of peach and apple. The palate is full and balanced, with nectarine, pineapple and lychee flavors. Pithy and citrusy on the finish. Ripe and good in a regular way.
Chunky and pasty-smelling, with a thick set of berry aromas that rest heavily in the glass. Not very fruity but definitely herbal. Most difficult to deal with are the hard, fierce tannins that result in a gritty mouthfeel and bitterness on the finish. Surprising tough and tannic.
Chunky and rubbery smelling at first, then out comes black fruit, oak and licorice in spades. This is a modern, dark wine from old Mencía vines that's very tasty and rolls across the palate with ease. It's a little syrupy and very ripe, with hints of herbs on the finish as well as cocoa and fig. Drink now through 2013.
Chunky aromas are lacking in fruit. The palate feels pithy and citric, while pyrazines and bland citrus drive the flavor profile on this Verdejo-Viura blend that's past its prime.
Chunky aromas of apple and citrus are regular and mellow. Has a more fleshy feel than many Chilean SBs, with apple and grapefruit flavors in front of a round, pithy, mildly bitter finish. Just juicy enough; contains 15% Carmenère for added body.
Chunky aromas of apple cider, pineapple, pine and juniper are challenging. This feels juicy, with sharp acidity. Nectarine is the lead flavor, while apple and pithy bitterness push the finish.
Chunky aromas of hay and mealy stone fruits are acceptable. This Sauvignon Blanc has a melony, creamy palate and mealy flavors of melon and papaya that match the bouquet. A yeasty, undefined finish indicates this is past its prime.
Chunky aromas of murky red-berry fruits, pie cherry and briny oak struggle to impress. This feels saucy and resiny, while briny, oaky, citric flavors finish scattered and hot. Overall, this woody rosado isn't shining.
Chunky aromas of peach and melon are briny and pickled. With high acidity maintaining shape, there's pinch to the palate. Typical Elqui Valley flavors of mustard and briny apple finish full, viscous and muscular, with a pickled citrus aftertaste.
Chunky aromas of sweet berry and beets announce a ripe style of Rioja. The mouthfeel is medium to full and healthy, with focused flavors of berry, oak and peppery spice. Long and a little fiery on the finish.
Chunky aromas of tomato, saucy berry fruits, asphalt and tire rubber are somewhat harsh. Flat and lazy in feel, this chunky, full-bodied number from Bío Bío tastes of baked cherry and plum fruit. A finish with low acidity and not much kick is the ending.
Chunky berry and cured meat aromas turn sweaty and herbal with airing. In the mouth, this is wholly basic. Flavors of soupy, herbal berry fruits lack definition, while the finish deals molasses and peppery bitterness.
Chunky black-fruit aromas are ripe but familiar, meaning the nose is pumped full of richness and oak. Racy acidity on the palate gives this modern Cab spine, while in the mouthfeel stays on the fast track due to zesty acidity. Flavors of cassis and blackberry register as fresh and ripe, and the finish is crisp and not the least bit flabby. Drink through 2016.
Chunky black-fruit aromas come with strong notes of coconut, chocolate and cedar. Feels fresh, zesty and voluminous, with sweet oak, coconut, mocha and herbal flavors to go with standard berry and cassis. Long and mildly herbal tasting on the finish.
Chunky cassis, tobacco and cedar mark the nose and palate of this textbook Cabernet. It's round in the mouth, with a long, richly textured finish that adds nuances of cocoa and dried herb. Like its close cousin from the Hickinbotham Vineyard, it can be drunk now–2025.
Chunky cherry and earthy tea aromas lead to a supremely tannic and overbearing body, leaving a residue as it transitions to the finish. Flavors along the way include oak, vanilla, syrupy berry, plastic and creamy chocolate.
Chunky cherry, cough drop and dusty aromas make for a ripe but alluring nose. This feels big and full, as will most 2012 Chilean Pinot Noirs; flavors of baked black fruits and raspberry are about as rich and sweet as Pinot should ever get, while a smooth, chocolaty finish is modest in terms of acidity.
Chunky obtuse aromas of berry fruits are a bit damp and volatile. This is heavy and severely tannic, while blackened berry and prune flavors come across a bit stewed. A drawing tannic finish brings this to a close.
Chunky on the bouquet, with soft apple and melony aromas. Feels fleshy, round and a bit chunky, with white pepper, fresh-picked asparagus and melony flavors. Feels just tangy enough on the finish. Well made for under $10.
Chunky pithy stone-fruit and citrus aromas are sketchy, while the palate is tangy and none too pleasant. Flavors of mealy citrus fruits and a finish with the consistency of orange juice do nothing to help this along.
Chunky plum, berry and toasty campfire aromas are full and thick on this blend of 60% Malbec and 40% Merlot. The palate is stout and meaty, with pronounced but honest tannins. It tastes charred, with ripe berry, prune and chocolate undercurrents. Loses some of its spunk on the finish.
Chunky rubbery aromas of black plum form the first act. This feels big and wide, with grabby tannins. Flavors of toast, burnt oak, licorice and blackberry finish woody and with scratchy tannins.
Chunky smelling, with herb, tomato and roasted plum aromas. Acidity is the first impression in the mouth, followed by roasted flavors and herbal/tomato accents. A standard Navarra Tempranillo that's acidic and veers towards red and herbal.
Chunky spiced apple and saline aromas get the wine off on so-so footing, and the apple and grapefruit flavors come with weight. Citrus takes over on the finish, but it's kind of pithy. Doesn't seem as fresh as it should be for a brand new '08.
Chunky stone-fruit aromas are ripe, mature and indicative that this Chardonnay is about to start fading. Heavy, honeyed flavors of nectarine and apple finish with a note of oxidation, mild barrel spice and just enough acidity to maintain balance. Drink now.
Chunky, broad and slightly rubbery smelling, with baked aromas, leather and other more serious scents. The palate is full-bodied and warm, but not all that complex. Flavors of baked plums, cassis and licorice are nice, and the finish brings chocolate brownie into the game. For immediate drinking.
Chunky, chewy and full-bodied, this fills the glass with flavors of tart red berries, tea leaves, wintergreen and a whiff of smoke. It's a gulp-able, interesting, and relatively affordable example of the outstanding 2012 vintage in Oregon.
Chunky, dark and muddled, with flavors of cooked rhubarb and hard spice. Seems thick on the palate and pickled on the finish. Imported by Ecovalley Quality Wine Group and National Refrescos Import Company, LLC.
Chunky, earthy aromas of balsam wood, finely aged balsamic vinegar and stewed blackberry yield to a tight drawing palate with hard tannins. This tastes meaty, roasted and more aggressive than El Enemigo's lower-elevation 2013s. A finish with salty toasty oaky notes, big tannins and blazing acidity closes the show. This is Cab Franc with 15% Malbec. Drink through 2023.
Chunky, earthy lead aromas have a hint of floral raspberry, but the palate is creamy and lactic, with milky cherry and plum flavors followed by a mildly bitter, peppery finish. Fairly solid for the most part, but its burnt and lactic notes don't elevate it.
Chunky, flat and stemmy on the nose, with herbal, generic fruit aromas. The palate is o.k. but sort of scratchy, while the flavors veer toward herbal, roasted cherry and berry. Herbal and sort of sweet and heavy on the finish. Pretty much what you'd expect for a $10 Cab.
Chunky, fruity and softer than many Priorat wines. There's raisin, blackberry and prune on the nose, which is followed by a grippy, round palate with sweet blackberry, raisin and chocolate flavors. Fleshy and easy on the finish, with coconut and warmth. Drink now through 2014.
Chunky, herbal berry and plum aromas are the introduction. A tight, grabby, tannic palate delivers herbal plum and berry flavors backed by scratchy tannins. Overall, this is a good and fair rendition of Chilean Cabernet.
Chunky, jammy and full of blackberry and boysenberry aromas, this is lively but limited in mouthfeel, with wild berry and savory flavors. It feels pointed and short on the finish, but overall it's dark, full and well made.
Chunky, lightly vegetal, green-fruit aromas are authentic for Casablanca SB. This has a full, slightly oily feel with girth and weight. Punchy, tart citrus and green-fruit flavors finish with lime, bell pepper and jalapeño notes.
Chunky, meaty, saucy plum and berry aromas are green and gritty. This is solid feeling on first blush, but then it collapses and turns clampy and tannic. Minimal berry and cassis flavors battle with herbal, green notes in front of a chubby, imprecise finish.
Chunky, oily, sweet aromas of pineapple and vanilla lead to a soft palate with mildly green, pickled flavors and creamy melon. The finish is quiet and quick other than for a final wave of sweet cream.
Chunky, oxidized aromas announce a wine that's past its prime. A globular, round mouthfeel lacks definition, while flavors of caramel and oxidized stone fruits finish woody, toasty and bitter.
Chunky, raisiny lead aromas come with more than enough vanilla, mocha and creamy oak backing. This has a lazy, baked, tannic feel and heavy flavors of candied blackberry and creamy oak. It smells and tastes forced.
Chunky, ripe and fruity, with bacon and roasted berry aromas. The palate has a good feel and tannins that melt away, while the flavors of black cherry and cassis lean toward medicinal but don't fully go there. Bold like Malbec should be, with hints of rubber and latex on the finish.
Chunky, ripe black-fruit aromas come with violet accents. The mouthfeel is good but gritty, with hard tannins and a lot of oak that creates a buttery topping to plum, cassis and molasses flavors. This ripe wine finishes stable but quick, with some chocolate flavor but not much else.
Chunky, ripe blackberry and cassis aromas come with baking spice scents. In the mouth, this feels broad, jammy and tannic, but under control. Ripe flavors of baked blackberry and graphite finish full and creamy but with solid tannic framework. Drink through 2019.
Chunky, roasted, somewhat stalky aromas are big and generous but lack purity. This feels snappy and tannic, while flavors of tomato, herbs and oak end with loamy, baked flavors. This is good stuff but it leans toward tomato sauce in flavor and feel.
Chunky, rubbery and leathery on the nose, but there's plenty of berry fruit, too. For an $11 wine, the palate is lush and plump, with big tannins and full flavors of roasted cherry, plum, herbs and tomato. Finishes long and persistent, but fresh. Interesting and nicely done for Chilean Cab Franc.
Chunky, slightly jammy plum and blackberry aromas are good but basic. In the mouth, this shows tartaric grit and bite along with lean fruit. Flavors of red plum and raspberry finish zesty but with hardly any complexity.
Chunky, slightly rubbery aromas revolve around black fruits and oak. This is a dense, thick wine with blackberry, plum, fig and bitter chocolate flavors. The finish is dark and weighty in this meaty Malbec.
Chunky, wayward aromas are vague at best. This has no structural integrity, while waxy green-apple flavors come with bitterness and a flabby, oily finish. Barely passable.
Church incense, dried lavender, sweet spice, blackberry and cherry cola shape a simple, no-fuss Primitivo that would pair well with pizza or pasta dishes. The wine ends with sweet, chewy tannins and thick extraction.
Churchill makes Pinots in a lighter-bodied style, but they're still elegant and complex. This translucent wine is silky in the mouth, and the raspberry, cherry, and cola flavors are enhanced with brisk acidity. Best Now–2014.
Cider and acacia aromas are subtle and inviting. This has a round yet citrusy feel along with flavors of nectarine and orange. A steady, smooth, minerally finish with just enough pulp and weight makes for a fine ending. Drink now.
Cidery apple and stone-fruit aromas are fresh and basic. This blend includes Chardonnay, Macabeo and Parellada, and it's a lively number with spritz and citric acidity. Orange and tangerine flavors remain zesty and snappy on the finish.
Cidery apple aromas come with a stony accent and modest yeasty complexity. A crisp, lean, focused mouthfeel and zesty flavors of lemon-lime and green apple finish citrusy and direct.
Cidery apple aromas, a medium-bodied citrusy palate and tart flavors of tangerine end with citrus aftertones. This is about as basic as drinkable Sauvignon Blanc gets.
Cidery aromas are briny. This feels low on bubbles but propped up by citric acidity. Orange and lettuce flavors end in pedestrian fashion, with a note of green herbs. This Cava's moderate, straightforward personality is due to the fact that it's 100% Xarello.
Cidery aromas suggest sourdough bread and citrus. This cava feels raw and clipped, with little to no friendliness to the palate. Briny, cidery flavors finish with a funky pickled aftertaste.
Cidery aromas vie with bready notes to give the bouquet complexity. This feels zesty, juicy and citric, with a lean, racy body. Apple cider, green herb, lime and scallion flavors finish with a lasting taste of lime.
Cidery, citric and jumbled on the nose and palate, this is barely cutting it. Briny, limited flavors of mealy citrus fruits finish flat.
Cidery, yeasty, grassy aromas are the opening on this round Cava that could use a bit more cut. Cidery, briny stone-fruit and apple flavors come with a celery note, finishing dry and with a white pepper accent.
Ciel du Cheval Vineyard fruit makes up the majority of this wine, with the balance from Olsen Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Aromas are bright and fruit forward, with notes of purple fruit and spice. The palate is rich, dense and dark, pulling up just a touch toward the finish.
Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun, Obelisco and Quintessence make up this wine. The aromas of smoke, dark plum, cocoa, herb and spice lead to black-fruit flavors that show a sense of sophistication. There's no question it comes from a warm vintage and region but it shows a judicious touch.
Cigar-box aromas and a perfumed, fruity character give this wine a typical Cabernet Franc character. It is structured, with some firm tannins at the core, surrounded by ripe red fruits and fresh acidity. The wine is ready to drink.
Cigar-box aromas and a rich character give this wine a sense of perfumed concentration. It is young, with a stalky character still evident. The structure is firm, and the blackberry fruits still coming together. Give this wine until 2017 before drinking.
Cigar-box aromas are followed on the palate by a wine with a young, tight, firm structure. The tannins are up front, keeping the red fruits behind and still needing to develop. That should not take long, giving a wine full of red plum and berry flavors with a dry core of tannins. Drink from late 2016.
Cigar-box spice, sandalwood, hibiscus, cinnamon, wild strawberries and black olive converge on the nose of this wine by Josh Jensen, who created the appellation single-handedly. A lovely sense of airy and fresh pomegranate-raspberry juice pervades the snappy palate, with just enough anise to keep it interesting.
Cigar box and mulberry spice aromas lead the nose of this Cab, with fruity notes of black berry and cassis providing the backdrop. Full and lush in the mouth, the ripe black fruit carries through to the finish alongside accents of roasted coffee grounds. 550 cases imported.
Cigar box and very ripe strawberry dominate the aromatic profile, though a bit of bell pepper lingers in the background. It's light and racy on the palate, with cherry cola, cedar and mellow tannins, making for a very fresh and fun wine, best served after mild chilling.
Cigar box, café au lait, and dried tobacco aromas are followed by coffee and cherry flavors, with barrel spices lingering on the finish. The wood gets a bit out front but it still delivers enjoyment.
Cigar box, cedar and red fruit aromas start this age bale red from famed winemaker Yiannis Voyatzis. On the palate, a spicy profile leads, with good acidity and structure as the base of its luscious dark cherry flavors. A serious wine with a lively spin.
Cigar box, green olive, herbal notes and field scents define the bouquet on this single-vineyard Cabernet. With bright acidity, the palate displays raciness along with oak-driven flavors of chocolate, mint, vanilla and herbal berry fruits. A lasting finish is spicy, herbal and mildly green in flavor.
Cigar spice, baking spice and butterscotch aromas hint at richness but never quite get there. This is mild and smooth on the palate, with caramel, white pepper and bitter chocolate flavors. It's static on the finish.
Cigar, coffee and mocha on the nose, followed by smoke and tobacco on the palate, give this ageable wine a masculine, restrained edge. The fruit is soft and integrated but the structure good. Imagine sipping this one by a roaring fire—it has that kind of character.
Cigarbox, cinnamon and clove aromas are followed by pepper, tea leaf and cherry on the palate of this traditional-style Agiorgitiko. Subtle and a bit spicy, this should pair well with brick-oven pizza with tangy cheese or lamb kebabs.
Cigarbox, mint, balsamic and leather lead this traditionally minded Agiorgitiko from Boutari. On the palate, plum, spice and tobacco prevail.
Cigarbox, pepper and red cherry on the nose leads into vanilla, smoke and cedar on the palate. Rich but not heavy, it will pair well with cured meats, cheeses, heartier dishes.
Cigarra, a cricket, is common in the Lisboa vineyards. The wine has a good mix of citrus and yellow fruit flavors, crisp and ripe at the same time. An attractive chalky, steely feel comes through in the acidity and the tight, nervy aftertaste.
Cignale always pleases and is consistent year after year thanks to its rich texture, meaty tones and complex aromas that recall blueberry, peppercorn and garden herbs. It is a joint venture between importer Neil Empson and producer Alessandro François.
Cignale, or wild boar is one of Tuscany's best expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon. A small percentage of   Merlot is added for softness and flavor and the wine oozes darkness, blackberry and exotic spice at its core. Pair it with game meat or spicy pork sausage.
Cinder is quietly one of the wineries carrying the banner for this nascent growing region. The aromas here are sappy and brooding, with notes of Marionberry, huckleberry, bittersweet chocolate and a spice top note. The blue-fruit flavors show an alluring sense of purity and grace that carries through the finish, which includes a savory note that heightens the interest. Delicious stuff.
Cinder makes two versions of this wine each year—one dry and one off-dry. This dry wine is medium-plus bodied, with notes of lemon, white flowers and white peach accompanying an oily feel.
Cinnabar produced this wine and has held it back longer than most other wineries. As a result, the 100% Cabernet has achieved a velvety softness, making it immediately drinkable. It has pretty flavors of cherries, black raspberries, chocolate and smoky oak.
Cinnamon-cola characterizes this soft, rounded expression of subtle dark cherry and herb. It comes from a sloped vineyard in the middle of the Russian River Valley near Olivet Lane, where moderate temperatures are impacted by morning fog. Layers of toasty oak grace the finish.
Cinnamon-scented plums are written all over this. This was made to be smooth and mellow and the pliable, soft, plummy fruit notes achieve this wonderfully. The palate remains medium-bodied and balanced on this easy-drinnking red.
Cinnamon and cedar aromas give this wine a “lounge by the hearth” vibe, and on the palate, flavors of dried herb, tomato and pepper add to the masculine edge. The wine has a rich character overall but is approachable.
Cinnamon and cedar notes pepper this rich, full-bodied Chardonnay aged 18 months in French oak. Fresh apple and pear flavors are bright, but enveloped in a midpalate of butter and cream. Drink now.
Cinnamon and clove aromas stick out on a nose with light red-fruit scents. Power with restraint describes the palate on this varietal Garnacha from old vines. Dark, slightly baked flavors of brandied cherry and mulled berry fruits finish with a touch of oak and a recurrence of lightly baked fruit notes. Drink through 2026.
Cinnamon and clove notes accent fleshy fruit flavors of ripe pear and melon in this broad, nearly full-bodied wine. Those attractive spice notes linger on the finish.
Cinnamon and clove show alongside hibiscus and mulberry on the distinctive nose of this bottling that also offers hints of maple, juniper, eucalyptus and turned earth. It's soft on the sip with elegant tannins and flavors of black cherry, cherry tomato, anise and camphor on the finish.
Cinnamon and licorice gumdrop and sketchy cherry cough drop aromas make up the nose on this cloying Cab that also shows hard tannins. Baked berry and brown sugar flavors finish with little sizzle or balance.
Cinnamon and other brown spices meet with iron, turned earth and dried cranberry for a slightly funky and sour nose. The palate offers a plush red-cherry flavor at first, followed by an earthy pencil-lead-driven note. Tart raspberry and graphite minerality emerge in the midpalate, followed by loam and coffee grinds toward the finish.
Cinnamon and spearmint elements give depth to the pinpoint, laser-sharp fruit notes of cherry blossom and strawberry on this bottling. Strong herbal flavors of thyme and marjoram and spices of green cardamom of peppercorn hit the palate right away, seasoning cranberry and pomegranate fruit, and finishing on a slate minerality.
Cinnamon and spiced berry—a seductive combination—lead this Cab from the Finger Lakes, but on the palate, cherry, pepper and spice flavors fall a bit flat. The wine wants more complexity and dimension, but offers approachable red berry flavors that will pair well with lamb or steak.
Cinnamon is prominent on the nose of this wine, while bright berry, cherry, black olive and floral notes linger in the background. The acidity is a little slow to arrive on the palate but when it does it mingles seamlessly with fine grained tannins. The midpalate is a little flat but the fruit creeps back in at the end.
Cinnamon red hots and a depth of forested pine greet the nose in this compelling, medium-bodied wine, which is wholly exotic in approach. Asian spice and a nutty character form flavor and texture amidst a light, delicate ripeness of fruit and tannin.
Cinnamon scents and a touch of reduction signal just how fresh this wine is. The ripeness of 2015 is well controlled here, its freshness preserved. Funkiness on the palate provides additional interest.
Cinnamon spice and pomegranate fruit give a soft touch to minerally driven aromas of black slate and wet cement on the nose of this block-designated (and trademarked!) wine. The wine's tannic grip and tartness are apparent on the texturally distinct palate before raspberry, hibiscus and rose petal flavors settle into a long, rich finish.
Cinnamon spice blends with fresh minerality and tart cherry on the nose. It starts very soft on the palate until tannins add grip by the end. It's plush with blueberry fruit and savory with kalamata olive, highlighted with a touch of violet.
Cinnamon spice meets with rose petal, cola, red cherry and dried violets on the nose of this bottling by veteran Terry Culton. The palate is tasty but not overly complex, with black cherry, earthy fennel and sage, and a touch of tobacco into the finish.
Cinnamon, clove and cashew notes combine with peach and pineapple to offer a fleshy mouthful of satisfying flavor that only lacks a bit of zest on the finish. Drink now.
Cinnamon, leather, roasted beef and red cherry show on the nose of this bottling from a winery that essentially enjoys its own appellation above the Cuesta Grade in the very southern corner of the Paso Robles region. Candied red apple and candied cherry show on the easy-drinking, somewhat sweet sip, with more cinnamon and a touch of bay leaf.
Cinnamon, nutmeg and black pepper vie for attention in this full-bodied, concentrated estate-grown wine. Dried herb, earth and plummy blackberry compote form the midpalate, before tart cranberry and rhubarb elements arise on the finish.
Cinnamon, pepper and cedar lead on this elegant red. Flavors of toasted nut, smoke, and cocoa follow in a pert, clean wave. Pair with lamb, smoked meat or robust cheese.
Cinnamon, pepper and spice lead this fun red from Greece. Flavors of cedar, pepper, tobacco and coffee give it a plucky edge. Savory notes round it out. Pair with grilled lamb, steak.
Cinnamon, plum, and mellow cherry aromas give this wine a poised start. On the palate, the wine is balanced and offers delicious waves of bitter almond, spicebox, sour cherry and cinnamon. Pair with grilled lamb and burgers.
Cinnamon, plum, blackberry and cedar aromas start this rich but poised red. Savory flavors of black fruit and spice are accompanied by fine, chalky tannins. Pair with lamb, richer fare.
Cinnamon, spice, leather and forest fruit leads the nose of this balanced, elegant red. Tobacco and spice are wound together with a clean minerality and crisp acid. Versatile and friendly.
Cinnamon, vanilla and toasted-oak notes accent the black cherry, raspberry and boysenberry fruit core of this accessible wine. Ripe, mouthfilling black-fruit flavors carry through to the medium-length close. Drink now.
Cinnamon, vanilla, coffee and red berries on the nose are followed by flavors of pepper, cinnamon and forest berries in this plucky Syrah. Spicy with a spin of tart fruit, the wine nevertheless has a full-bodied feel.
Cinsault dominant, with Grenache and Rolle (or Vermentino), this is an enjoyable sipper of tart cherry and strawberry, with a delicate blossom note lingering underneath. Pair this with a some relaxation on a porch on a hot summer day.
Cinsault, at 53%, is the major player in this soft, tangy wine. It has a good balance of red fruits, citrus acidity and crisp apple. The wine is ripe, poised with an attractively fruity aftertaste.
Citation is given as much as a decade of bottle age prior to release, which means it is pre-cellared and drinking at its peak. Baked cherry, cocoa and coconut flavors combine gracefully, with soft, secondary fruit compote highlights.
Citric force creates a pleasant vortex of green pear on this easy, zippy and full-fruited summer wine. Finishes with a lip-smacking fillip of bracing, lemony freshness. Almost like sherbet.
Citric lightness of touch is already suggested on the nose but fully manifested on the palate where is centers on a linear, taut and fresh palate with real, soaring freshness.
Citric on the nose, with cherry and bland earthy notes. The palate has an inoffensive feel and sweet flavors of black cherry and vanilla. That sweetness carries onto the finish, which is also candied. Generally decent but highly regular.
Citric smelling, with clipped aromas of berry fruits. Choppy tannins, heat and raisiny, sweet, cooked berry flavors and stemmy notes finish herbal tasting but full in feel.
Citric smelling, with floral notes and dampness. The palate is more thin and grating than expected, with red fruit, citrus, cherry sucking candy and graham cracker flavors. Finishes a bit edgy and candied, and overall it's generic with little personality.
Citric tartness dominates nose and palate, making for a spritzy, lime-flavored fizz with frothy bubbles. The dry palate is light yet fruity, making this fun, easy-drinking and refreshing.
Citron, lemon rind and pastry crust aromas travel to a vigorous palate of foaming bubbles and racing acidity. A sweet plastic note meets a squeeze of lemon on the finish.
Citrus-driven on the nose, this stainless Chard brings green apple and tangy peach to the palate. A cheese-rind character lingers on the finish.
Citrus-edged sweetness is far more apparent on the palate than the nose, but here it delivers wonderful hints of lemon oil and candied zest, cut through by lively acidity against hints of tropical mango. A wonderfully toned BA, this will pair well with both cheese and dessert.
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.
Citrus acidity and raspberry fruit combine in this ripe, sun-drenched wine. It has a fine balance of crispness, with rich fruits and a delicate lemon note on the finish.
Citrus and apple aromas are dusty. This is easygoing and just juicy enough, with apple, orange and tangerine flavors. A clean finish turns softer and more mealy the longer it sits.
Citrus and apple aromas are fresh, reserved and on the light side. In the mouth, this pops with lemony acidity and related tang. Flavors of tart green apple and lime are racy almost to the point of being sour, while this ends with a tingle of sharp acidity and a sense of wet stones and minerals.
Citrus and apple aromas are straightforward. This feels mostly good on the palate, with some flab and grab. Citric-leaning flavors of grapefruit and orange are softened by nectarine notes, while the finish is clampy like the palate.
Citrus and apple flavors bring out freshness. A dry white, it conveys a smooth texture, lively acidity and a crisp aftertaste. Drink now.
Citrus and apple flavors dominate this tight, mineral, crisp wine. It has a refreshing feel with acidity that's well integrated into the fruitiness, as well as a light texture. Drink now.
Citrus and apple freshness mark this wine, which is bright and lively while also having some fruit weight. Not for aging.
Citrus and apple tart mark this wine that evolves to offer barrel-rich caramel on the nose. Dark golden in color, the wine is concentrated and alive, a taste of wild Tahitian vanilla accenting it from midpalate through to the finish.
Citrus and apricot aromas are basic. This feels dilute but fresh. Peppery, slightly bitter and stalky white-fruit flavors finish similarly.
Citrus and chocolate come up from the glass, wrapped together like chocolate-covered orange peel. The core fruit is tangy raspberry, spicy and focused. This drinks like a young wine in terms of both vineyard and bottle age. It should continue to improve with a bit of cellar time.
Citrus and crushed stone notes start this wine off, followed by lemon sorbet on the palate. It's lightweight, a real summertime refresher, with a short, clean finish.
Citrus and floral aromas are mild. This blend of Viura and Chardonnay feels round and chunky, but hardly stocky. Bland flavors of orange and grapefruit fall off on the finish.
Citrus and gooseberry define the all-fruit nose. In the mouth, you'll encounter the full allotment of cantaloupe, citrus and green herbs, particularly basil. The tangy finish is like grapefruit sorbet after a nice meal; it cleanses the palate, leaving no residue at all. It's refined, racy and tips the scale at just the right weight.
Citrus and green-herb aromas are as they should be for Verdejo. A chunky, slightly oily mouthfeel and pithy, salty flavors of citrus and stone fruits finish round in feel and briny in taste.
Citrus and green apple flavors give this dry and nicely tangy wine a versatile, tasty character that turns richer with each sip. It has excellent balance between crisp fruit and a generous texture.
Citrus and green herb with a prickle control the nose. Mixed citrus, passion fruit and arugula are the main flavors, and they are backed by matchstick bitterness, citric acid and sulfur on the finish.
Citrus and green pear combine with yeasty notes to give an impression of subdued but creamy fruitiness. It's an easy-drinking, savory and versatile white, with some peppery spice.
Citrus and herb aromas and crisp, inviting flavors make this medium-bodied wine hard to resist. Nicely dry, well balanced and lively with acidity, it has a lingering finish.
Citrus and herb aromas set the mouth watering, anticipating a crisp, bracing wine. But this one's surprisingly soft in the mouth, filling out with tropical fruit flavors that could use a bit more zest.
Citrus and herb characteristics show strongly in this full-bodied wine. They are enhanced by light wood flavors that smooth out the acidity. The result is a full, rich wine that could age. Drink from 2015.
Citrus and light herb aromas turn to slightly more buttery, spicy flavors in this medium-bodied well-balanced wine. It has a good sense of richness in the mouthfeel along with hints of vanilla, cream and almond flavors to complement the fruit notes.
Citrus and match-stick aromas are basic. This feels plump and a bit low on energy. Generic flavors of melon with peppery green notes finish with low acidity.
Citrus and melon-rind aromas lead to off-dry, medium-bodied fruit flavors. The concentration comes off as quite light.
Citrus and orange zest flavors and bright acids characterize this wine. It's a refreshing selection, and it has a tight texture and pear juice flavor. Age it for 1–2 years.
Citrus and orchard-fruit aromas lead the way. Reflecting the nose, the simple off-dry palate offers ripe pear and nectarine drop alongside bright acidity.
Citrus and passion fruit aromas emphasize the SB over the Verdejo component, even though the blend is 70% Verdejo and 30% SB. A zesty, pithy feeling palate houses citrus peel and pithy flavors, while the finish tastes the same.
Citrus and peach are on display, with a slight hint of wintergreen mint. There are enough tannins here to give it a residual flavor of peach tea. Overall it's a chunky, blocky style of Riesling, emphasizing pure fruit goodness over finesse.
Citrus and peach aromas are basic but clean. The palate starts out fresh and easy before losing some steam, but along the way there's peach, green apple and dry melon flavors. Good for a simple, tropical-style white wine.
Citrus and peach pit aromas are mild. This is clean but basic on the palate with citrus, nectarine and lime flavors. A clean refreshing finish is a nice way to wrap things up. This is Sauvignon Blanc and Verdejo.
Citrus and pear notes lead the way in this bargain-priced Chardonnay from Down Under. It's reasonably tight and crisp for a wine in this bracket, carrying hints of well integrated vanilla through the lemony finish. Drink now.
Citrus and red-fruit aromas make for an attractive, perfumed wine. On the palate, a fresh character comes from the red currant and raspberry fruits. It is light and bright with a tight, mineral aftertaste.
Citrus and ripe yellow fruits weave harmoniously throughout this warm, rich wine. There is no wood, just generous fruitiness and acidity in a creamy texture. It is approachable now, although it will be better from 2016.
Citrus and salad-like aromas are more subdued and neutral than punchy. This feels melony and lower than normal on zestiness. Flavors of green fruits and mild herbs finish mellow and slightly bitter.
Citrus and sea spray aromas are restrained on the nose. The ample body carries flavors of mealy melon muddled with lemon rinds, which carries to the burnt-sugar finish.
Citrus and soft red berry flavors are restrained on nose and palate of this pale, pink and slender rosé. But the bone-dry nature of the wine makes for great refreshment. Drink soon.
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.
Citrus and stone-fruit aromas struggle to hold up, while the palate on this blend of 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay is solid but soft. Flavors of apple cider, peach juice and yeasty bread shift to powdered sugar and white table grapes on the finish.
Citrus and sweaty aromas require patience. This is juicy and citrusy in feel, with flavors of green fruits, lime in particular. A lightly vegetal finish offset by candied sweet notes makes this unfocused.
Citrus and tropical-fruit aromas are basic. This feels plump and, yet again, basic. Vegetal flavors of bell pepper finish with hints of citrus as well as pyrazinic green notes.
Citrus and tropical-fruit aromas show snap in front of a racy palate. White pepper and grassy notes work the finish on this easygoing Sauvignon Blanc.
Citrus and tropical fruit aromas are basic and the slightest bit stalky smelling. Spritzy lift gives the body some kick, while zesty flavors of sport pepper, jalapeño and citrus culminate in a juicy finish.
Citrus and tropical fruit aromas blend together in clean, attractive fashion. The palate is crisp and cleansing due to firm acidity, while flavors of lime and pithy orange finish tight. This is a clean, clear presentation of Salta Torrontés.
Citrus and tropical fruit notes are pure, powerful and provide a fine entry to the wine, which dances with melon, green tobacco, pineapple, honeydew and lime flavors. It's big and ripe, with prickly acidity and good complexity. A nice example of Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc with all the zest and ocean influences you should expect.
Citrus and tropical fruits dominate this rich wine, while the wood gives caramel. Full and mouthfilling, this is rounded, the acidity veering towards softness. The toast and white plum skins give structure to an open, generous wine.
Citrus and white-fruit aromas are elegant, smooth and suggestive of Burgundy, which makes sense given that this was aged in oak. The right amount of acidity lends lightness and length to the palate, while ripe lime and honeydew flavors are well oaked. A fresh friendly finish is minerally and crystal clean.
Citrus and white blossom come first but there is a deeper, richer floral aspect of yarrow and daisy. The palate is light, dry and wonderfully fresh. Once you've started it's hard to stop with this quintessential summer sipper.
Citrus and white flowers comprise the nose, with a touch of melon underneath the top tier of scents. Flavors of orange, citrus pith and green herbs lead into a juicy finish that at first offers roasted nuts and then fades away smoothly. Its major fault is high acidity, which leaves a somewhat sour overall impression.
Citrus and yeast aromas form the nose on this wine, which feels forward and bubbly, with some sizzle to the palate. Cherry, plum and nectarine flavors are good, and it finishes with vitality. This is sweet and flavorful stuff.
Citrus aromas and ripe melon flavors give a clean, fruity personality to this medium-bodied wine. Honeydew, mild peach and lemon nuances ride a crisp texture.
Citrus aromas are familiar. Lively and zesty in the mouth, with refreshing acidity. Orange and passion fruit lead the palate, which transitions to grapefruit. Crisp on the finish. Good for an everyday white wine.
Citrus aromas are solid while also pithy and dry. Following the nose, this feels juicy and citric, while flavors of lime and citrus are slightly bitter in front of a minerally finish that's persistently clean and fresh.
Citrus aromas lead the nose, followed by feline notes, yeasty vanilla and green pepper scents. This wine has a citric, tangy, hard-driving palate. Flavors of orange, tangerine and grapefruit finish with zesty acidity.
Citrus aromas reveal this wine's essentially crisp character. Plenty of acidity balances the rich white fruits while the mineral texture adds bite to this well-made wine. It will be ready to drink from 2019.
Citrus aromas, mostly lemon, veer towards dish soap. A spunky, citric mouthfeel is tight and exact. Nothing beyond citrus flavors are present on a cutting palate. Echoes of lime propel the finish.
Citrus blossom and honeydew aromas contrast against bramble and earth tones on this pert blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris. Dry in style and delicately framed, it's a refreshing, light-footed quaffer.
Citrus blossom and leesy vanilla notes open this balanced aromatic white from Argentina's north. Leesy tropcial-fruit flavors focus on lychee and lime. The wine is moderately long on a simple but solid finish.
Citrus blossom and lemon pith entice your nose while flavors of apple, pear and peach please your palate. There's a hint of ripe fruit sweetness on the finish.
Citrus blossom and orchard fruit aromas lead the way. On the round, medium-bodied palate, tangy acidity supports ripe yellow apple and pear flavors. A hint of citrus zest marks the close.
Citrus blossom and peach aromas open while the zesty palate offers rennet apple, lemon drop and almond. Crisp acidity and a mineral note lead to a tangy finish.
Citrus blossom and pine notes are welcoming enough, but the palate is sort of sweet and gummy for Torrontes. The wine has a spritzy body but not much variety in flavor. Powdery on the finish, with sugary leftovers.
Citrus blossom and ripe green apple and lime are what this crisp Lodi white offers, another example of the region's ability to do good things with white wines. It's a refreshing wine to enjoy on a warm autumn's night or as a respite from winter, a plate of oysters near at hand.
Citrus blossom and tropical aromas are light and easy. The palate is melony and not too acidic, with standard Asian pear, lychee and citrus flavors. Lively on the finish, and solid overall for under $10.
Citrus blossom is evoked on the nose, aromatic mandarin peel and the dark, crushed foliage of citrus, too. On the palate there is a purity that is both mellow and taut, generous and restrained. The body is slender and willowy, while breezes of herbs and citrus come and go. Do not smother this dry, delicate veil of Riesling with big food. Choose light, delicate fare and this will simply sing.
Citrus blossom, apricot, peach, minerals and white peppercorn emerge from the nose of this attractively priced Chard. It boasts medium build and persistency with nice acidity and a spice-filled finish.
Citrus blossom, pear and a whiff of wild herb aromas carry over to the palate along with white peach and a hint of lemon drop. It's bright and creamy, with lively acidity and a soft mousse.
Citrus blossom, wisteria and orchard fruit aromas lift out of the glass. Fresh and creamy, the palate offers white peach, candied nectarine slice and ripe Bartlett pear. Fresh acidity brightens the rich flavors while a silky mousse lends finesse.
Citrus blossoms and lime zest perfume this fragrant little showstopper. Dry in style, it's a spry, delicately-framed wine, yet lusciously concentrated in peach and melon flavors. Streaks of lemon-lime acidity catapult a long, penetrating finish.
Citrus blossoms are coated in honey and peach nectar in this sunny deeply concentrated Kabinett. It's off-dry in style yet balanced by a luminous streak of tangerine acidity that drives the finish long and dry. It's a bristling revitalizing sip.
Citrus freshness and frothy fizz make for an easygoing, feather-light and uncomplicated sparkler, perfect for informal gatherings. The finish is dry, clean and refreshing.
Citrus freshness suggests lovely lightness on the nose, the palate, however, weighs in with more zestiness and brings in more rounded flesh that plumps this out beautifully. The center of gravity is definitely on the spicy-midpalate but arrives on aromatic, almost floral wings.
Citrus fruitiness and mineral acidity that mark Douro character is balanced by a hint of toast from 50% of the wine being aged in oak. Drink this tight nervy wine from 2018.
Citrus fruits and figs are backed with a healthy dose of acidity in this somewhat tart offering.
Citrus fruits and rind are the lead aromas on this minerally Verdejo. Passion fruit, nectarine, orange and saline flavors finish with pithy grapefruit and almond-skin flavors. Overall this is tangy and holds firm. Drink now.
Citrus fruits shine in this wine that offers attractive acidity along with lemon and crisp apple flavors. Bright, fruity and ready to drink soon, the wine has a nervy texture that will be delicious. Drink from 2017.
Citrus peel and mineral aromas set up a zesty palate that doesn't show a lot of weight or body. Mild citrus and apple flavors are maintained on a basic finish. This is fresh, clean and easygoing.
Citrus peel and raw, fresh herbs dance in the nose of this delicate pale-pink rosé, with supporting tones of white cherry and apple blossom. It's clean and bright on the palate, showing beautiful harmony and acidic verve that carries through to the refreshing finish.
Citrus peel and stone-fruit aromas blend with dusty, yeasty notes and a touch of spiced cherry on the nose of this juicy, fresh Spanish sparkler. Cherry, raspberry and red-plum flavors hint at elegance before finishing dry, long and lightly peppery in flavor.
Citrus peel, melon and peach aromas are ordinary. This feels pithy and citric, while flavors of white grapefruit and underripe stone fruits finish almondy and bitter.
Citrus peel, naked rock and cold mountain streams are the images conjured up by the first whiff of this fine, featherlight Riesling. Sprightly and fresh, wired and zesty, it is a reminder of the bracingly fresh and thrilling 2014 vintage. This will provide supreme refreshment on a hot day but also keep its cool in years ahead. Riesling ahoy!
Citrus plays with pear notes on a slightly out-of-focus palate. This wine is fresh and very light-bodied with zesty lemon and should be marked for early drinking.
Citrus rind and grapefruit fruit flavors are set against more floral highlights. It's as refreshing as a gin and tonic, and even carries a hint of quinine flavor in the finish. The wine is sturdy and consistent through the middle and finishes with a gentle fade.
Citrus scents mingle with green pear peel. A textural vestige of phenolics suggests that this wine belongs on the table.
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.
Citrus wafts up in the aroma, and brisk lemon, lime and grapefruit tinge the flavors of this wine. A rather soft texture and light body make it gentle to sip, and a touch of sweetness comes out on the finish.
Citrus zest and toast aromas carry through to a palate of underripe melon and lemon custard. This is appealing and enjoyable, although it lacks weight and structure.
Citrus zest, faint passion fruit, guava and woodland ferns all vie for attention here—this is a zesty, aromatic mix of greenery and ripeness. The central freshness makes this very appetizing and moreish. This is crisp and mouthwatering with a lasting, wonderfully aromatic aftertaste.
Citrus zest, pineapple and oak aromas carry over to the lean, linear palate, joining hints of toasted nut and vanilla. Brisk acidity provides the racy framework.
Citrus zest, toasted nut, Mediterranean scrub and honey aromas follow over to the refined palate along with yellow apple and a hint of ginger. Bright acidity and a saline note give it a fresh, savory finish.
Citrus, acacia flower, white stone fruit and a whiff of honey are some of the alluring scents you'll find on this vibrant, refined white. The taut, well-structured palate doles out white peach, apricot, honey and hazelnut energized by flinty mineral. Give this a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2018 through 2025.
Citrus, Alpine herb and green-apple aromas carry through to the vibrant linear palate along with lemon zest, Anjou pear and a yeasty hint of bread crust. It's extremely refreshing, with crisp acidity a dry finish.
Citrus, apple and a hint of fresh bell pepper make for a good nose. This feels medium in body, with juicy acidity. Salty flavors of lime and green apple are lasting across the finish.
Citrus, apple, crushed herb and wild flower aromas take center stage on this elegant sparkler. It's bright and silky, with savory Bartlett pear, nectarine zest and hints of thyme balanced by a creamy mousse and vibrant acidity. Thanks to its depth of flavors, finesse and crisp dry finish, it beautifully demonstrates Prosecco's serious side.
Citrus, apple, spice and flowers on the nose and palate give this pretty wine dimension. It's a simply good sip that will pair well with spicy cuisine and seafood.
Citrus, chopped herb and baked bread aromas float out of the glass. On the soft palate, foaming bubbles cushion creamy yellow apple while hints of ginger and nectarine zest add interest.
Citrus, confectioner's sugar and papaya are the opening act for this simple but pleasant sparkler. It's light in the mouth, with noticeable sweetness but a kick of lemony acidity at the end leaves you feeling refreshed. Drink soon, preferably while watching the tide come in.
Citrus, cut grass, white almond skin, peach and melon all play a roll in the aromatic intensity of this white wine. In the mouth, it offers medium creaminess with more peach on the close.
Citrus, flowers and melon on the nose are mirrored in the flavors of this elegant and lively dessert wine from Hungary. The character is fresh, fruity and powerful, but not overwhelming. A lovely balance of fruit and acid gives it sophistication and a food-friendly style. Very pretty and sure to please myriad palates.
Citrus, green herb and tolerable sweaty aromas suggest Sauvignon Blanc, but this is 100% Verdejo with a snappy, pure, citric palate and flavors of green apple, lime and grapefruit. It's juicy on the back end, with depth and persistence. Drink now.
Citrus, honey and cantaloupe notes open the bouquet of this food-friendly white wine. The mouthfeel shows acidity without being sharp or sour.
Citrus, lychee and mineral are the key aromas. It feels alive, with nice acidity and flavors of nectarine, peach and lychee. This is sweet, oily, pithy and true to the variety from start to finish.
Citrus, mango and animal cracker aromas are mild and easy to like. The palate on this white blend (led by 50% Verdejo) offers melon, apple, mango and a hint of spice, while the finish is clean, smooth and just racy enough. Drink now for max freshness.
Citrus, Mediterranean herb and cut grass aromas lead the way. The crisp palate offers Bartlett pear, unripe apricot and grapefruit alongside tangy acidity. A saline note backs up the succulent finish.
Citrus, melon and saline aromas are quiet in nature. This is fresh and a bit on the plump side, with fruity, almost sweet flavors of honeydew, lime and mango. A flush, easy finish could benefit from more direct acidity. Drink immediately.
Citrus, mineral and honey aromas are good but not all that complex. This feels full and weighty, with nectarine and orange flavors. On the finish, dry citrus flavors are round and lasting but low on elegance. Drink now.
Citrus, orchard-fruit and spring-blossom aromas float out of the glass. Mirroring the nose, the slightly sweet, creamy palate tastes of white peach, apple and candied citrus peel offset by fresh acidity and a foaming perlage.
Citrus, orchard blossoms and sea-spray aromas are lively and focused, with an almond-skin note lingering in the background. The juicy, racy, off-dry palate brings to mind talc-dusted red apple and quince, with a toasty, leesy finish.
Citrus, peach and rose aromas start this refined white. On the palate, it's a balance of tropical fruit, herbs and a clean, saline finish. Crisp but full of character, this is a very good and versatile white for the table.
Citrus, peach and toasted aromas lead the nose on this creamy sparkler. Made entirely with Chardonnay, the palate delivers candied lemon zest, mature Golden Delicious apple and apricot brightened by fresh acidity. It finishes on a ginger note.
Citrus, pear and peach open the bouquet. The palate shows a soft, creamy perlage, with a tangerine note and even a touch of crushed clove, giving this sparkler a unique personality.
Citrus, red plum and currant aromas are wild and gamy. This has an edgy mouthfeel with a rubbery sensation, while citrus and candied red-berry flavors hum along.
Citrus, ripe apple, guava and pineapple soda aromas show on the nose of this bottling from a winery that has explored white Alsatian grapes since the early 1980s. It tightens up considerably on the palate, where Asian pear and lemon skin flavors make for a mellow expression.
Citrus, spice and pear on the nose give way to waves of spice, white fruit and flowers on the palate. A pretty wine with a soft finish.
Citrus, spring blossom and apple aromas follow over to the straightforward easygoing palate along with peach and a candied note. Lively acidity provides the backdrop.
Citrus, tropical fruit and a crisp minerally burst give this dry white a unique flair. Overall, the wine is clean and light—a great cohort to grilled fish or Mediterranean cuisine. Classic and elegant with a terroir-driven edge.
Citrus, tropical notes and a bit of skunky funk define the nose on this unoaked Chard. The palate is slightly metallic in feel, while the flavors suggest canned peaches and nectarine.
Citrus, wet stone and tropical fruit aromas provide intrigue and lead to dry, lightly creamy fruit flavors. The concentration at times seems light, but what's there is pretty.
Citrus, yellow apple, orange blossom and saline aromas take center stage. On the palate, notes of savory herb accent creamy apple and pear flavors that are brightened by fresh acidity and a mineral note.
Citrusy acidity gives this dry, silky Pinot Noir a cranberry tartness, which gets the tastebuds whistling. Pair this with lamb, salmon or tuna to help tame the acids.
Citrusy acidity gives this wine enough balance to give the ripe lemon, lime and guava flavors balance. It's tart yet juicy, with a refreshingly minerality.
Citrusy and fresh, this low-alcohol (11.5%) blend of 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc strikes the right chord as an apéritif or fish complement. It's lean, lemony and long, with hints of toast and paraffin adding a modicum of complexity.
Citrusy and fresh, with dominant aromas and flavors of lemon custard and pineapple. It's medium-bodied and cleanly made, just could use a touch more dimension and richness. Still, it's an easy-drinking Chardonnay suitable as an apéritif or alongside lighter dishes.
Citrusy and full on the nose, with a fleshy palate that sports fresh white grapefruit and passion fruit flavors. This is a textbook Verdejo from Rueda with modest sweaty notes, grapefruit galore, citrus pith and minerality. Drink now.
Citrusy and grassy, this light-bodied wine shows delicate tropical fruit tones on a perceptibly sweet finish.
Citrusy and perfumed, with a bit of tomato-leaf herbalness thrown into the mix, this is a light, rainwater-fresh style of Sauvignon Blanc that needs more concentration and intensity before it can be considered top-flight. It's a workmanlike effort, but nothing more.
Citrusy aromas include pithy notes and a metallic hint of tin. This is more chunky in feel than tight, with moderate snap and acidity. Flavors of citrus fruits and green herbs end with mild acidity.
Citrusy aromas of lemon and grapefruit show a leesy side note. This blend of 50% Verdejo, 30% Viura and 20% Sauvignon Blanc is pithy and citric on the palate, with flavors of lemon, green apple and orange peel that carry onto a lasting, healthy finish.
Citrusy aromas of lemon rind and lime juice are sharp but welcoming, enhanced by white pepper and Gala apple flesh. Flavors are broad with apples and more lemon rinds, made intriguing with a touch of herbs including fresh-plucked thyme.
Citrusy aromas revolve around pink grapefruit and rose blossom. In the mouth, this is a bit flat for such a young rosé, with pithy and bitter flavors and notes of red plum and red-apple skins.
Citrusy aromas suggest white grapefruit. Plump but balanced in feel, this tastes a bit salty and briny, maybe a reflection of its partial coastal grapes, something that's new to Argentina. The briny tangy finish is interesting.
Citrusy bright, with a core of red and black cherry, this simply structured, light-bodied wine shows well-defined acidity and a touch of forest floor.
Citrusy but also salinic, with mildly tart and lean lime and orange flavors. There's a touch of canned fruit character to the feel, with grapefruit on the finish. Juicy in the middle but limited.
Citrusy in style, with aromas of orange, passion fruit and grapefruit. Feels flush and full-bodied, with basic tangerine and navel orange flavors. Fresh on the finish but hollow in terms of depth, with a light fade.
Citrusy on the nose, with just a hint of sulfuric burn and smoke. Flavors of sweet white grapefruit, tangerine and tarragon leaf give the palate that little bit extra, while the finish is smooth but short. Good but a touch flat on the back end and finish.
Citrusy on the nose, with rooty, restrained, earthy accents. It feels full but a bit dull in the middle, with flavors of minty spice, pepper and mature red fruit. Dry and drawing on the finish, with a tomatoey flavor.
Citto is an informal Tuscan red made with organically-farmed fruit that opens with bright cherry, blueberry, light spice and leather. This is a very likable wine with bright fruit freshness and all the easy qualities needed to pair next to a heaping plate of fettuccine and meat sauce.
Claiming, with some pride, to have the longest chateau name in Bordeaux, this estate on the plateau of Saint-Émilion, close to Château Figeac, has given a 2014 that is dense, juicy and with great fruit. The tannins and the fruit are balanced with the blackberry flavors supported by the dry core. Drink from 2022.
Claire and Mike Allen's fine Sauvignon Blanc epitomizes the Wairau subregion, blending slightly grassy notes with passion fruit and riper stone-fruit flavors. It's medium bodied and tightly focused, with a silky mouthfeel and a long, citrus and white-currant finish.
Clammy and pickled smelling on first take, with melon and apple in the background. Feels choppy, with pithy citrus and mealy apple flavors. More or less the same on the finish, but with acidic bite and tang.
Clancy's is a reliable Barossa blend that in 2008 is 50% Shiraz, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Merlot. It's a supple wine, the bright cherry fruit framed by tart acids rather than firm tannins. Drink it over the next couple of years.
Clarendon Hills is best known for its Syrah and Grenache, but it is no slouch when it comes to McLaren Vale Cabernet. The 2008 Hickinbotham is full bodied and velvety in texture, with ample notes of cocoa and crisp cassis. Hints of mint and other herbal shadings give it varietal character and welcome complexity. Drink it over the next 10–12 years.
Claret is the old-fashioned word for Bordeaux, but it has no legal meaning in the U.S. This Cabernet-based wine contains some Syrah, which gives a smoked meat or bacon note to the blackberries and black currants. It's delicious, if a little sweet.
Claret is the old British term for the wines of Bordeaux. This wine, the first such from Francis Ford Coppola's Sonoma County winery, is a good buy. It's a bit rustic, but offers smooth flavors of blackberries, currants and chocolate.
Clarified butter and lemon rind notes combine on the entry of this estate-grown wine. Spicy, salty acidity and a subdued crisp-apple flavor contribute to its light, tangy finish.
Clarified butter is the first flavor to hit the palate of this wine, with a fresh, herbal essence that gives it a farmhouse feel. Cucumber and lemony acidity follow, as well as a pronounced oyster shell-like mineral note. This is a light, bright white ready for the table or as an apéritif.
Clarissa Nagy, whose main job is making wine for Riverbench, sources grapes from the nearby Garey Ranch Vineyard for this bottling. It shows strawberry, plum blossom, beet juice, rose petals and cola on the nose. The palate is light and easy, with flavors of pencil lead, Earl Grey tea and brisk cranberry juice.
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.
Classic Albariño aromas of granitic minerality combine with apple and stone-fruit notes gets this off to a good start. A smooth, citric palate and clean, fruity flavors of orange and peach finish easy and fresh, with proper acidity.
Classic Albariño aromas of sea brine, tropical fruits, lees and dust precede a minerally lemony palate with tangy flavors of lemon, lime and gooseberry. This is a fresh clean example with a long stony citrusy finish.
Classic and compelling aromas of rose petal, candied boysenberry, hibiscus reduction and vanilla brioche show on the nose of this wine from a rugged appellation east of the Salinas Valley. The firmly structured palate shows rose petals and tart berries, dusted by fennel pollen, white pepper and chaparral spice.
Classic and restrained, with herbal components and a firm tannic backbone, this is a finely made wine at a respectable price that's easy to enjoy and share. Savory currant, leather and oak define it best.
Classic and yet distinctive in aromatics, this bottling from the Niven family's cool-climate vineyard shows cut grass, wet cement and a touch of struck match on the narrowly focused nose. The palate intrigues, with fresh-cut thyme and oregano lifted by a white pepper element.
Classic aromas of baked cherry and clove spice meet with the slightest tangy touch of dried orange on the nose of this appellation blend. The baking-spice character consumes the palate, where rich black cherry and tart ripe cranberry decorate the meaty mouthfeel, all framed by boisterous mouthwatering acidity.
Classic aromas of cassis and black cherries dominate this impressive effort from the south of France. Sinewy tannins and good concentration make for a fine balance in the mouth while notes of earth and mineral persist on the finish. Drink up.
Classic aromas of cinnamon, raisin, prune and spice rise from the glass, while flavors of pure caramel, baked apple, chocolate and cinnamon take over. This is thick stuff, but with game acidity it stops short of being syrupy. And it's forever long on the finish. Sweet, rich and balanced. What P.X. ought to be.
Classic aromas of fragrant blue flowers, ripe plum and sweet baking spice lead the nose. The polished palate delivers dried cherry, crushed raspberry, anise, clove and grilled herb alongside smooth tannins that make this already extremely accessible. Drink through 2018.
Classic aromas of lemon custard, white-peach meringue, toasted oak and roasted nuts show on the nose of this bottling by the Carmel Valley-based producer. The fat lemon-cream flavors meet with savory smoked alder on the sip, with a sea-salt touch leading into the finish.
Classic aromas of oak, spice, toast and vanilla lead on this dependable white from Le Bonheur. The wine's flavors offer a spicy minerality with a touch of liveliness that will pair well with more sophisticated seafood and ethnic dishes.
Classic aromas of rose, red berry and a balsamic note lead the way. The structured, savory palate offers up sour cherry, chopped herb, white pepper and clove framed in youthfully assertive but refined tannins that need to unwind. Drink 2017–2027.
Classic aromas of wild berry, leather, game and forest floor unfold in the glass. The bright, savory palate delivers mature black cherry, ripe raspberry, clove, star anise and grilled herbs alongside bracing tannins and brisk acidity. Drink 2017–2022.
Classic aromas truffle, dark-skinned berry, tilled soil and dark baking spice lift out of the glass along with a whiff of menthol. The juicy palate boasts mature Marasca cherry, cinnamon, clove, anise and chopped mint alongside tightly wound tannins and fresh acidity. A hint of tobacco signals the close. Drink 2020–2026.
Classic Aussie Shiraz from the vineyard that borders the backbone vineyard of Penfold's Grange. This one's made by ex-Grange winemaker Daryl Groom, who now lives in California's Sonoma County but owns his own Australia vineyard. Lush, deep, rich and ripe, the wine fans out to reveal complex layers of black cherry, plum, licorice, spice, chocolate, blackberry, tar, vanilla, coconut and herbs. Smooth and plush textured, with a finish that doesn't quit.
Classic Barsac that goes for delicacy and elegance. The flavors are apples and cream, light honey and a wonderful floral lift. Pure lines, fresh with acidity and lively peach flavors, suggest a wine that will develop quickly but very attractively.
Classic black-colored Malbec, very perfumed, its fruit polished by smooth tannins. On the palate, black damson and bitter chocolate flavors are present. It's a powerful wine, full of firm tannins, its dark edge softened by wood.
Classic Bordeaux in structure, this firm wine has dry tannins that still dominate the black and red berry fruits. However, the fruit that's now in the background will come strongly forward to give a fresh character and plenty of final black currant.
Classic botrytis sweet and dry flavors bring out the rich honey and lemon juice. The wine also has freshness, a tight edge of orange and sweet chutney spice. A great example of sweet Gaillac.
Classic Brunello, albeit in a bold, dense style. Delicate, ethereal Sangiovese accents emerge, but the wine is also packed tight with modern aromas of spice, leather and dark chocolate. It shows nice balance and complexity. Textured tannins and tight structure keep it firmly in place.
Classic Cabernet aromas of cassis and boysenberry are steady on the nose. This is plush and mouthfilling, with good overall balance. Flavors of herbs, olive, chocolate, baking spices and blackberry are bright, healthy and end with notes of additional spices and herbs.
Classic Cabernet, from its mint and cassis aromas to its ample weight and long, plush finish. This is full and velvety, with hints of cedar and vanilla blending easily into the whole. Approachable now, it should age well through at least 2025.
Classic California Petite Sirah, which means the wine is bone dry, acidic and tough in tannins. It's flavorful, offering a mouthful of blackberries, black currants and licorice. The tannins reprise on the finish, leaving behind a puckery bitterness. Good with short ribs, barbecue.
Classic Calistoga red wine, totally dry, full-bodied and big. Assaults with sweet, ripe sour cherry candy, cola, anise and spice flavors that finish long and lush. Yet it shows a refined tannic structure, and there's a firm minerality. Could surprise in the cellar after six years, but no guarantees.
Classic Cambria Pinot from the Santa Maria Valley, this is translucent in color, silky in texture and bone dry, yet unbelievably concentrated. Full bodied and warm in alcohol, it has massive flavors of cherry compote, cranberry, persimmon, sweet, smoky oak and crushed spice. It should age gracefully over the next six years.
Classic Carmenère aromas of leafy black fruits come with notes of herbal bath soap, tobacco and cigar box. A full fleshy palate is plump rather than tight or tough. Blackened peppery black-fruit flavors finish chocolaty and slightly herbal.
Classic Carmenère aromas of oregano, basil and tomato vie with ripe plum and spice to create an herbal-leaning but honest bouquet. Feels good, with balance and lift to flavors of berry, olive, tobacco and herbs. Mild and short on the finish, but nice for $10.
Classic Carmenère aromas of spiced blackberry, olive, herbs and cola hint at green, but in the mouth this warm-vintage wine is ripe, lush and layered, with resiny oak. Flavors of cola, vanilla, blackberry and black cherry are nicely herbal, while a spicy finish brings char and coffee notes along with plush weight. Drink through 2018.
Classic Chardonnay aromas of apple, pear and hay lead into a palate marked by decent intensity but also a bit of sweetness. Orange and candy notes run through the rather short finish.
Classic Clare Valley notes of blossoms, lime popsicle and kerosene are all here, along with apple skin and a chalky minerality. The palate offers more of the same and wonderfully balanced acidity, slight spice and a long, limey finish.
Classic crisp, tangy wine, with plenty of grapefruit flavors, very fresh, crisp and clean.
Classic Dão tannins—firm, dry and powerful—are supported by satisfyingly ripe black fruit to yield a concentrated, dense, perfumed wine. Swathes of fruit are layered with this solid structure and given a final lift by ample acidity. It still needs to age, so drink from 2017.
Classic Douro varieties give a finely structured wine, its blackberry fruit flavors subordinated to an elegant mineral character, with dark tannins and tight acidity. An impressive, rich, also restrained wine.
Classic Dry Creek Zin, dry and firmly tannic and bursting with pepper, briary wild berry, tamari and chamomile flavors. Calls for a broiled steak, drizzled with garlic and rosemary-infused brown butter sauce.
Classic Dry Creek Zin, dry, spicy and briary. Has those rustic tannins that just love cheese, tomato sauce, spice-rubbed barbecue or a great beef taco. Perfect ripeness, too, brimming with raspberries, blackberries and blueberries.
Classic Dry Creek Zin, tannic and filled with briary, brambly wild berry, currant, anise, leather, peppercorn and sandalwood flavors. Brings elegance to Zin's rustic personality. Great upscale barbecue wine, or try with a chicken or beef stew.
Classic Dry Creek Zin. There's a reason this warmish Sonoma region is so famous for Zinfandel, and here it is. The wine is strong and spicy and tannic, with profuse wild berry, pine cone, red currant, cherry liqueur and cola flavors, made piquant with Indian spices. Despite its exuberance, it's dry and balanced. Just lovely if you're in the mood for Zinfandel.
Classic Dry Creek Zinfandel, dry and brawny and high in alcohol. Pair the wild blackberry, nettle, anise and pepper flavors with a spice-rubbed, smoky grilled steak.
Classic Duckhorn, which is to say, dry, tannic, elegantly structured and expensive. The winemaker succeeded, in this so-so year, in crafting a rich, nuanced wine of considerable interest. It may not be a longterm ager, but it's delicious now, with deep flavors of blackberries, red currants, violets, cocoa and smoky oak, balanced with the prettiest acidity. Grows better in the glass as it breathes.
Classic Eden Valley aromas of lemon-lime sherbet and wet stone mark the nose of this medium-bodied wine. That wet stone note carries through on the palate to yield a slightly chalky or crushed-stone texture, while the citrus fruits race through the long finish. Drink 2020–2030.
Classic Edna Valley Chardonnay; it's crisp and bright in acidity, with brilliantly-etched orange, lime and tropical fruit flavors that are laser-like in their intensity.
Classic flavors, great structure and impressive depth make this wine tempting to drink now, but it will certainly improve with age. Hints of light nutmeg and coriander mingle with stronger blackberry and black pepper in the aromas and flavors. It has that slightly wild, gamey character of the Rhône, along with ripe but slightly restrained fruit and spices. Best from 2018 to 2023.
Classic fresh, extremely tangy wine, all apple, citrus and crispness. It's lively, although also with some fruit richness. Drink now, with shellfish. Screwcap.
Classic Gewürztraminer aromas of fresh lychee, pink grapefruit and roses abound on Dr. Frank's lovely bargain Salmon Run. Although full bodied with a plush, broad profile, it's spritzed with a gentle lemon acidity and bitter lime pith and rose potpourri finish. Would pair beautifully with spicy, herbacious Thai dishes, but might be hard to resist savoring on its own.
Classic Gewürztraminer from start to finish, this luxuriously off-dry sipper bursts with heady rose petal and ripe, rich lychee notes. Zesty and bright with acidity, the finish is marked by delicious hints of lanolin and lime zest.
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.
Classic Grüner Veltliner, this combines a creamy texture with crisp green fruit. Bright, fruity and ready to drink.
Classic Hall Cabernet, blended with some Merlot and ultrarich and smooth in cherries, raspberries, sweet plums and mocha. The high alcohol is balanced, and this is quite delicious and drinkable. Ready now and should hang in there for at least six years.
Classic herbaceous, catty aromas usher in a wine that has crisp, gooseberry and grapefruit flavors. It's bright and tight, with acidity that dominates all the fruitiness. It needs to be drunk by 2015.
Classic hints of mint mark the black-cherry and cassis aromas of this wine. On the palate, the fruit is reasonably restrained but pure, barely touched by dried spices and cedar, then glides to a silky finish. Drink now–2020.
Classic Howell Mountain Cabernet. The fruit is intense and concentrated in black currants and cocoa, the tannins are strong and hard, the acidity is perfect, the finish is entirely dry, and there's a firm minerality. So deliciously elegant now, it's hard to resist, but this Cab will surely reward cellaring through at least 2017.
Classic Hunter Valley Sem, if maybe just a little fruit-forward. Like tasting light-bodied lime juice that finishes fresh and clean. Drink it now with oysters, or put some aside for up to 10 years for it to develop toast, honey and marmalade aged characters.
Classic Laetitia, dark, dry, full-bodied and richly extracted. The cherry, persimmon and pomegranate fruit is so forward, it tastes sweet, except that the wine finishes fully dry. Acidity is evident, as are grippy tannins, and the fruit and spice finish lasts a long time. An evident ager. Best after 2013.
Classic late-harvest Riesling with opening notes of peach and stone fruit. The sweet but racy palate is home to nectarine and white flowers shot through with a streak of acidity. Not overly generous but a good reflection of the category. Great for after-dinner sipping. May improve with a few years' age but drinking well now.
Classic late-harvest Zin that packs a real whallop. Wld berries and stone fruits mingle with pruny, raisiny notes in this softly textured, rather alcoholic wine. They couldn't or didn't ferment to dryness, so there's some sugar in the middle palate and finish, where those raisiny flavors reappear.
Classic lychee and rose petal aromas perfume this ripe yet elegantly composed Gewürztraminer. Juicy and forward yet balanced and spry, it calibrates zesty tangerine acidity against a crystalline glaze of honey that lingers on the finish.
Classic Lynch-Bages with just a bit of extra power and richness. While the tannins are structured, it is the velvety fruit that rolls around the mouth that is the most dominant character. It is coming together into a wine that will be big and dense, but never over the top.
Classic Margaret River Cabernet, showing great balance between cedary oakiness and effusive fruitiness. Cola and plum notes give this a darker flavor spectrum than some vintages, yet the flavors remain crisp and vibrant, ending with soft tannins. Drink now–2025.
Classic Meursault, big and bold with a rounded texture. That said, the wine does have a crisp edge of green apples to balance the spiced toast, which is very evident at this stage.
Classic Monterey Pinot, dry, crisp, silky and ripe. The fine 2007 vintage has made it explosive in cherries, currants, sassafras and cola, with refined, new oak notes of smoke and spice. Drink this rich wine now through 2013.
Classic Mosel nose of fresh blossoms, delicate stone fruit, slate and hints of flint. This is medium sweet, crisp and lively with lots of juicy fruit flavors, notes of acacia honey, white peach and citrus. Nicely taut and focused palate, very minerally with refreshing long finish.
Classic Napa Cabernet, with perfectly ripened blackberry, cherry and cassis fruit, nicely elaborated by sweet, smoky oak, and framed in ripe, smooth tannins. Really a lovely wine, with the balanced equilibrium to ride out the next decade.
Classic Napa Valley Cabernet, this is dry, tannic and ripe, with delicious blackberry and cassis liqueur flavors that finish with style and elegance. Scores high in the deliciousness factor, although it's a bit lacking in substance to age. Drink up over the next year or two.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of new leather, menthol, pressed rose, perfumed wild berry and chopped aromatic herb continuously lift out of the glass. The luminous, delicious palate delivers layers of succulent Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and star anise set against a backbone of youthfully assertive but fine tannins. Bright acidity gives it wonderful balance while a note of pipe tobacco graces the lingering finish. Drink 2028–2048.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of red berry, leather, crushed flower and a balsamic note unfold in the glass. The full-bodied palate doles out juicy black cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside firm, refined tannins. Drink 2018–2026.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of red berry, underbrush, tilled soil, aromatic herb and spice lead the nose. The bracing palate offers dried black cherry, anisette, mocha, toast and grilled herb alongside extremely assertive tannins and brisk acidity. Drink 2019–2031.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose petal, aromatic herb, woodland berry, anise and a balsamic note lead the way on this bracing wine. The taut, lean palate offers wild cherry, white pepper, clove and anise alongside assertive tannins and nervous acidity. Drink 2019–2031.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose, leather, blue flower, forest floor and ripe berry emerge in the glass. The chewy palate delivers mature Morello cherry, raspberry, white pepper, truffle, mocha and a hint of toast while fine-grained tannins provide support. Star anise closes the firm finish. Drink 2018–2028.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of violet, wild berry and a whiff of baking spice float out of the glass on this attractive red. The elegantly structured palate offers mature wild cherry, cinnamon, white pepper and clove alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of wild berry, aromatic herb, tilled soil and a balsamic note slowly emerge on this structured red. The focused, full-bodied palate offers wild cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, white pepper, anise and mint alongside assertive tannins and bright acidity. It needs to come together but already boasts finesse and complexity. Drink 2019–2031.
Classic Nebbiolo aromas of wild berry, rose petal, baking spice and an earthy whiff of truffle emerge in the glass. The elegant vibrant palate mirrors the nose, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, pipe tobacco and cinnamon alongside firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity. It's a textbook Barolo that will benefit from a few more years in the cellar. Drink 2023–2033.
Classic Nebbiolo scents of rose, violet ripe berry and a hint of baking spice come together on this. The straightforward, approachable palate offers black cherry, coffee and clove alongside velvety tannins. It's a tad shy on freshness so enjoy over the next few years.
Classic northern Rhône aromas of smoke, espresso and black olive set the stage, followed by layers of dark fruit and spice. The finish is softly dusty, brimming with plum and licorice notes. Full-bodied, concentrated and supple, this is ready to drink now, yet should age well through 2025 or so.
Classic notes of lychee and rose petal waft on the nose of this delicate Gewürztraminer. Off dry in style, it's brisk and dancing, offsetting plush, juicy white grapefruit with spice and honey. Finishes briskly on a sugary pastry note.
Classic old-fashioned California Barbera. It's super-dry, hard in tannins and high in acidity. All that gives it a rather tough mouthfeel, but it should develop for 20 years. Good with tomato-based pasta dishes with sausage and beef.
Classic old-school Carmenère aromas of bell pepper, olive and hard spices accent black cherry and plum notes in front of a full, mostly well-balanced palate. Herbal red-plum flavors are a touch salty, while the finish is minty and oaky tasting, with a hint of green.
Classic old-school Gran Reserva. The nose is full of barbecue, molasses and dried plum, while the palate has complexities in the form of tobacco, tire rubber and earth. It goes somewhat citrusy and quick on the finish, ending in a wash of orange-infused leather and chocolate. Drink now or hold for another 5 years.
Classic open, generously juicy St. Laurent. The flavors just burst into the mouth: red cherries touched by wood, sweet fruit zest and ripe stone fruits. The wine is underpinned by a layer of very dry tannin, and topped by beautifully fresh acidity.
Classic overtones of olive and black pepper lend character to pulpy, ripe black cherry flavor in this bold, full-bodied Syrah. It's rich and yielding on the palate with just a faint fringe of tannins. It finishes on a slightly medicinal note.
Classic Petite Sirah aromas leap off the nose of this bottling, including dense black rocks, crushed gravel and lava rocks, a touch of espresso bean and a light brush of purple flowers. The palate starts juicy with ripe blueberry then grows complex through charred meat, tar and coffee. The tannins are still stiff but will mellow slowly.
Classic Petite Sirah, in the full-bodied richness, dryness, hard tannins and deep flavors of ripe dark berries and fruits, cocoa, grilled meat and black pepper. As good as that is, it also shows the impeccable balance of a fine Napa Valley red wine. Good now with robust meat stews and roasts, and it should develop for many years.
Classic Petite Sirahin its own brawny, briary way. It's full-bodied and drily tannic, with strong flavors of wild berries, tobacco, Canadian bacon, crushed pepper and toast. The depth of these flavors is considerable, as is the long, spicy finish. Should glide effortlessly through the next eight years.
Classic Pinot Noir scents of dusty rose blossom and black cherry emerge from the glass. They're followed by flavors and textures that highlight the tension between slightly herbal and tea-like notes with dark cherry fruit. This medium-bodied wine then glides into a long, finely textured finish.
Classic Pommard, a big, firm, tannic wine that is foursquare and dominating. It broods with its dense structure and concentration. The fruits are solid, with plum skins, red berries and bursts of acidity. All this adds up to a wine that needs to age. Aim for five years before drinking.
Classic Priorato aromatics of raspberry, cherry, schisty mineral and smoke are welcoming. Elegant and firm in the mouth, with drying tannins and staunch red fruit flavors of cherry and tomato blended with wild herbs and reeds. Earthy and dry on the finish, and not overpowering or overripe.
Classic Provence pale-pink-colored rosé, this is a soft red-fruit flavored wine. With bright acidity and a smooth texture, the wine is balanced. There is a touch of vanilla at the end to finish the wine easily.
Classic Rioja aromas of berry fruits, spice, tobacco and vanilla lead to a grabby palate that's slightly bumpy in feel. Dry spicy plum and berry flavors are lightly herbal, while the finish tastes the same.
Classic Rioja aromas of earthy berry, cassis and raisin along with cocoa and dry spice notes announce a ripe wine with complexity. A dense palate with good acidity sets the stage for baked berry, cassis and raisin flavors. This Tempranillo is earthy and smooth on the finish. Drink through 2020.
Classic Rioja aromas of rooty black fruits, vanilla, dill and herbs are the greeting on this full-force, saturated wine. Blackberry, cola, vanilla and coffee flavors are spicy and finish with notes of buttery oak and root beer as well as core strength. Best from 2018 through 2022.
Classic ripe Muscadet, ripe but fresh, steely around the edges with delicious fresh fruits in the center. It is a lively wine, flavored with grapefruit and white currants, with an apple skin texture.
Classic rose and lychee notes are dusted by hints of potpourri and bramble in this unusually spry Gewürztraminer. Bright tangerine sweetens the midpalate, leading to a fresh, blossomy finish.
Classic Rutherford Cab. Dry, dusty and slightly herbal, with refined, jammy flavors of red and black cherries, currants, mocha and cedar. The alcohol is a little high, giving this 100% Cabernet a warm, full-bodied feel. The tannins suggest mid-term aging. 2013–2018.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of new leather, wild berry, baking spice and a whiff of menthol lead the way on this full-bodied red. It's juicy and delicious, delivering crushed raspberry, fleshy black cherry, cinnamon and pipe tobacco framed in polished and velvety tannins. Drink now through 2027.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of red berry, culinary spice, crushed herb, tobacco and a whiff of new leather float from the glass. The juicy full-bodied palate delivers fleshy wild cherry, raspberry compote, vanilla and star anise framed in firm, refined tannins. Fresh acidity lends balance. Drink 2019–2027.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, tilled soil and a whiff of new leather lead the nose on this delicious red. The round juicy palate doles out mouthfuls of wild raspberry, fleshy cherry, baking spice and an earthy hint of truffle alongside smooth, velvety tannins.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of tilled soil, wild berry, new leather and chopped Mediterranean herb lead the nose along with a whiff of blue flower. The delicious, chewy palate doles out juicy Marasca cherry, black raspberry, baking spice and star anise framed in youthfully assertive but ripe tannins. Drink 2019–2029.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, pressed powder, violet and wild berry mingle in the glass. The vibrant palate offers layers of black cherry, dried red cherry, white pepper, truffle and savory herb alongside firm but refined tannins and bright acidity. This is all about polish and finesse. Drink 2018–2028.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of violet, wild berry and forest floor lead the nose on this easygoing red. The bright straightforward palate shows morello cherry, tangerine zest and a hint of clove framed in bright acidity and supple tannins.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of wild berry, blue flower, underbrush and a whiff of new leather emerge on this full-bodied red. The structured elegant palate delivers juicy morello cherry, crushed raspberry, grilled herb, licorice, pipe tobacco and baking spice framed in firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Classic Sangiovese aromas of wild berry, just-turned soil, leather and a hint of underbrush unfold in the glass. The bright, juicy palate offers layers of rich wild cherry, black raspberry, cinnamon and pipe tobacco framed in firm, velvety tannins. A licorice note closes the finish. Drink 2020–2030.
Classic Sauternes, treading the fine line between sweetness and elegance. Initially, it seems to be dominated by the botrytis, but then sweet fruits also show, with ripe yellow fruits, honey and almonds, touched with citrus. As it develops, the wine will become richer and more intense.
Classic Sauvignon aromas of cut grass, straw, tropical fruit and crushed tomato vine mingle in the glass. The vibrant, elegant palate shows finesse and balance, delivering juicy white peach, grapefruit and green melon alongside crisp acidity.
Classic Sauvignon, steely, crisp and mineral. There is a concentration of texture and green skins as well as impressive freshness. Lively, vibrant flavors, vivid in their relief, point up the good intensity of this fruity wine.
Classic scents of dark-skinned berry, chopped herb, dark spice and new leather take the lead in this wine. On the firm elegant palate, youthfully assertive, noble tannins support dried Marasca cherry, licorice and clove flavors while bright acidity lends balance.
Classic Semillon aromas of hay and quince create an intriguing but subtle opening act while the simpler palate displays some attractive cut-grass notes from the Sauvignon Blanc. A good partner for flavorful shellfish preparations.
Classic Smith-Madrone Riesling, this is dryish and clean, with mouthwatering acidity and hints of citrus, Asian pear, green apple and honey. It shows balance and elegance that is rare in California Riesling. Enjoyable now, and it should slowly develop nuances over the next eight years.
Classic smoky, spicy aromas and complex fruit flavors make this dry, light-bodied wine from veteran winemaker Scott Harvey fascinating to taste. Its green apple, grapefruit and peach hints are accented with light floral, spicy touches. Vibrant acidity keeps it lively and appetizing with each sip.
Classic Sonoma Zin—dry, tannic and spicy. Shows the briary, brambly side of the variety, with wild blueberry, blackberry and cola flavors finished with exotic spices and a hint of dark chocolate. The addition of Petite Sirah may be responsible for the sizable tannins. This is a wine that will last for many years, gradually softening, but it's best enjoyed soon for its fruity exuberance.
Classic Sonoma Zinfandel, dry, spicy and elegant, with briary, brambly wild berry, tobacco, leather and pepper flavors. It's dry and rich in dusty tannins, and will hold for a good six years.
Classic southwest France Sauvignon Blanc, bright, fresh and citrus-flavored. Great for summer drinking, clean and delicious.
Classic spice and lychee aromas lead to a wine that is medium sweet, attractive but one-dimensional. It has perfumed, candy shop flavors, almost exaggerated. Screwcap.
Classic spicy Blaufränkisch, with flavors of fresh red plum juice, tense acidity and a dark, dry core. This is pure fruit, the tannins deriving from the lightly astringent character of the grapes. Drink now.
Classic structured, firm and soft at the same time, with a lyrical, creamy mouthfeel. The tannins are evident now, but that is characteristic of a young Georges, and the reason it ages so well. The depth of blackberries, cherries and currants is unreal and persistent. This is one for the cellar and will age for at least a decade and probably far longer. Try to keep your hands off it until after 2011.
Classic tannic Dão Touriga Nacional, packed with minerality, dark and dry tannins, firm and with a good juicy final character. Part of a range of wines from across the country under the name Azul Portugal.
Classic varietal aromas like forest floor, black cherry and spicy, ripe red-fruit flavors offer welcome into this medium-bodied, firm-textured wine. The structure is so firm with acidity and tannins that it keeps the flavors slightly in reserve, so it will benefit from a few more years in the bottle. It will be best after 2019.
Classic varietal aromas of crushed tomato vine, grapefruit and a whiff of aromatic herb take center stage. The grapefruit note carries over to the medium-bodied palate along with honeydew melon and a hint of mineral.
Classic varietal aromas of fragrant purple flower, wild berry and baking spice jump out of the glass. A blend of Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo, the juicy palate doles out fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, herb and mocha alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity. It's already delicious and well balanced. Drink through 2020.
Classic varietal aromas of hay, tomato vine and honeydew melon lift out of the glass. The structured, polished palate doles out exotic fruit, peach, and graphite notes while tangy acidity keeps it balanced.
Classic varietal aromas of hay, tomato vine and tropical fruit take center stage in this expressive white, accented with a whiff of wet stone. The savory palate doles out juicy grapefruit, green melon, yellow peach and mineral flavors, with tangy acidity.
Classic varietal aromas of pear flesh and skin open into just slightly underripe fruit flavors. The wine is balanced and adds tart apple to the pear fruit.
Classic varietal aromas of tomato leaf, exotic fruit and citrus practically jump out of the glass. The bright palate doles out juicy peach, nectarine, grapefruit, celery and sage while a mineral vein lends energy.
Classic varietal aromas of tomato leaf, hay and passion fruit lead the nose on this fragrant white. The elegantly structured palate offers grapefruit, white peach and mineral alongside crisp acidity.
Classic varietal aromas of tropical fruit, elderflower, tomato vine and a whiff of hay jump out of the glass. Ripe and tangy, the outgoing palate delivers grapefruit, yellow peach, honeydew melon and notion of dried herb. An oyster-shell note on the close adds interest.
Classic varietal scents of gooseberry, tomato leaf, cut grass and a touch of tropical fruit lead the nose. The tangy palate offer white peach, pink grapefruit and mineral alongside zesty acidity.
Classic varietal scents of talcum powder and rosewater lead into a tangy, tart, low alcohol but bone-dry wine. The fruit is substantial, offering solid flavors of grapefruit and lemon peel.
Classic varietal scents of yellow apple meld with hints of white flower and crushed rock. The apple note carries over to the refined palate together with pear and lively acidity while a mineral note revitalizes the finish.
Classic varietal smells of chalk and golden raisin emerge from this wine. It's lusciously smooth once sipped, with orange, limestone and vanilla pudding leaning up against bitter greens and just-ripe nectarine. Serve with beets and goat cheese or Chinese chicken salad.
Classic Viognier apricot flavors are prominent in this ripe, full wine. It's as poised as it is rich—full of fruit, with a warm, rounded aftertaste.
Classic Viognier with its apricot aromas and flavors, this wine is ripe, smoothly textured and with pear as well as yellow fruits. It is soft, rich and ready to drink.
Classic Weinert wine; meaning it's well-aged, mature and sort of throwback. It's not purple and saturated and sticky; instead it's medium-weight and a touch scratchy, with roasted berry aromas followed by dry cherry, raspberry and plum flavors. A touch of burnt brown sugar offers balance and sweetness, and as a whole it seems ready to drink.
Classic with grassy scents on the nose, this also shows lime peel, lemongrass, ripe honeydew and slight passionfruit aromas. Ripe Anjou pear powers the tip of the palate, with sharper grass elements and a sour citrus flavor emerging later.
Classic Zinfandel, rich and robust and high in alcohol, with enormously ripe blackberry, cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, sprinkled with Zin's pepper, cinnamon and clove spices. This full-bodied wine raises Zinfandel's rustic nature to Napa elegance.
Classic, crispy white berry- and lime-flavored wine. It is pierced with acidity, just touched by some softness. For great summer drinking.
Classic, elegant Pinot Noir aromas introduce this delightful wine. Whiffs of flowers, citrus and fresh herbs accompany a tart, pretty palate with nuanced rhubarb, cranberry and raspberry flavors.
Classic, intensely herbaceous and grassy, this is fine cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc. It keeps some restraint as the fresh grapefruit flavors soften out midpalate. The final flavor, though, is full-on asparagus and green fruits.
Classic, medium sweet rosé from Anjou, bottled cherry flavors and lemon acidity. Screwcap.
Classic, open, herbaceous fruit flavors with attractive light acidity and a perfumed character from the Muscadelle in the blend. The wine is fruity, crisp citrus and lively final freshness. Screwcap.
Classic, pungent feline aromas of passion fruit, citrus and grass set up a friendly palate with moderate acidity and nice flavors of nectarine, lime and green melon. The finish introduces sweet notes of banana to go with lime.
Classic, ripe Saint-Julien with all its richness, tempered with elegance. It is deliciously fruity, packed with blackberry fruit surrounding the structure.
Classic, simple and fruity, this is an immediately accessible wine. With bright red fruits and a soft, juicy texture, it is crisp, lively and ready to drink.
Classic, soft, easy and broad Pinot Blanc. There is an attractive buttery character to go with the peach and lime flavors. The wine is ripe, with pure fruit and a final tang of acidity.
Classic. Beautiful acidity is balanced by just a touch of sweetness. The wine is bright with apple and lime flavors.
Classically aromatic and slightly grassy, it has touches of sweet pineapple and vanilla dancing throughout the soft layers of easy-drinking acidity and crispness.
Classically crafted, it opens with a fruit-driven fragrance of bright red berries accented with whiffs of cooking spices and balsamic herbs. The juicy palate delivers fleshy black cherry, black raspberry, black pepper and exotic spices alongside big, velvety tannins. Soft and delicious, this is already accessible so enjoy over the next few years.
Classically crafted, this impressive wine opens with alluring Nebbiolo aromas of mature dark berry, pine forest, leather, aromatic herb, baking spice and an earthy whiff of game. The full-bodied palate delivers juicy wild cherry, black raspberry, licorice, clove and tobacco alongside firm, refined tannins. It's already tempting but hold to let it fully develop. Drink 2018–2031.
Classically crisp, this is packed with attractive green fruits. It has a tang of citrus and a lively bite. Fruity and ready to drink. Screwcap.
Classically perfumed Riesling, very floral, with white flower aromas and a star fruit and kiwi flavors. There is a definite texture here, an edge of fruit skins, with Mandarin orange acidity to give a vibrant finish.
Classically powerful and rich, this is a concentrated wine. With spice from the wood aging prominent, it is still young. That spice is balanced by the ripe yellow and baked-apple fruits. The aftertaste has delicious flavors of honey and lemon. Drink this wine from 2020.
Classically ripe Russian River Pinot Noir, sweet and jammy in raspberries and cherries. Fortunately, fine tannins and acidity provide balance. It's a bit too sweet and rich in fruit, lacking some complexity, but fine for drinking now.
Classically structured, this still needs to open up but already offers aromas of dark berry, menthol, toast, dried herbs and a whiff of cocoa. The firm palate delivers red cherry, raspberry, mocha, tobacco and licorice accompanied by bracing tannins and fresh acidity.
Classically structured, which means dry tannins mixed with fresh black currant juice, and set over a bed of tight wood. This is a firm wine, perhaps lean for the vintage, but with a sense of balance and structure.
Classically styled Barossa Cabernet, with plenty of weight and texture, its rich chocolate and cassis aromas and flavors backed by just a touch of mint. Finishes long, with velvety tannins that should begin to settle by 2010 and keep it evolving through 2020.
Classico Nebbiolo aromas of wild red berry, tilled soil, aromatic herb and forest floor spill out of the glass. The generous palate offers red cherry marinated in spirits, white pepper, clove and anise alongside solid tannins. Savory and structured, it's already almost accessible but will still provide fine drinking over the next decade. Drink 2017–2026.
Classified as medium dry on the IRF scale, this is a medium-bodied Riesling without much texture, yet classic apple and citrus aromas and flavors. A sensation of wet stone creeps in on the finish.
Classy and classic French oak and red cherry aromas combine with raspberry flavors, lively acidity and firm, textured tannins to make a complete, well-balanced wine. This is a bit more austere than many of its peers, but the taut balance and appetizing texture make it more compelling.
Classy and complex oak nuances give the aromas and flavors of this wine a suave, spicy personality. Grilled baguette and cedar notes merge nicely with its focused and concentrated berry and black cherry flavors.
Classy and focused, this elegant effort features sharp citrus and raspberry flavors, in a tight, vertical, fruit-driven style. Given its depth and tangy acidity, it seems a good candidate for some additional bottle age, though not long term cellaring.
Classy aromas of pear, stone fruits and resiny but controlled oak lead to a pure, moderately woody and balanced palate that delivers ripe apple, melon and peach flavors along with oak backing. Vanilla and walnut flavors grace a nicely textured, creamy yet lively finish.
Classy in cherry-berry crumble and vanilla, this wine then expands into sophisticated bursts of white pepper, cinnamon and violets. Elegant and intriguing, it offers balance amidst bold flavor, finishing smooth and velvety.
Classy in style and classic in flavors, this single vineyard selection offers strawberry fruit with highlights of melon and orange peel. It's dappled with notes of coffee and cola, smoothed out from 16 months in French oak, one-fifth of it new.
Classy, complex aromas and flavors make this full-bodied contribution from the Sierra Foothills quite attractive and interesting to drink. It smells like baking spices and cedar shavings, tastes fruity like cranberries and adds a good amount of acidity and firm tannins to firm up the texture.
Claudio Fenocchio's classically crafted Barolos are consistently outstanding even in tough vintages. His flagship Bussia delivers succulent black cherry, truffle, leather and balsamic sensations balanced by big but fine tannins. This is already developing some complexity. Imported by Masciarelli Wine Co, Moonlight Wine Co.
Clay and minty cola aromas give nuance to the soft, dark, perfectly ripe blueberry fruit on the nose of this wine. Fine-grained but sticky tannins and a pinch of acidity frame the sip, where dark-roast espresso, beef char and cigar smoke flavors reign.
Clean-cut and zesty with the tang of grapefruit peel, a concentrated midpalate and a refreshing dryness, this Riesling shows elegance, power and lip-smacking lemon finish. Shy now, it will reveal more power with bottle age. Drink as of 2017.
Clean-cut zesty freshness pervades nose and palate with lively, ripe and toothsome citrus zest: mandarin and lemon dominate. The palate is sleek and slender with focus and verve. Wonderfully bracing.
Clean and approachable with soft brioche and toasted hazelnut character among the bright peach, pear and white floral notes. Full but clean; drink now.
Clean and approachable, with lemon-lime aromas leading to an easy, mildly crisp palate with lemon, lime and honeydew flavors. Sweet in accordance with standard extra dry guidelines, and also good for apéritifs and sparkling cocktails.
Clean and basic, with peach, buttercup and floral aromas. The palate is round, simple, fresh and not too acidic, with melony flavors and a soft, easygoing, monotone finish. Generic but perfectly adequate Torrontés; drink now.
Clean and bright on the nose, with loads of black plums and blueberries. This wine, made from Öküzgözü grapes, is an interesting glimpse into Turkish winemaking. Dry and medium bodied, with a firm tannic structure and brisk acidity, it finishes with a hint of milk chocolate flavor. Could benefit from decanting, but would be an interesting to age as well.
Clean and bright, this opens with light aromas of fresh green apple, underripe pear and melon rind. The lightweight palate is fresh and racy, with a friendly and enjoyable mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2018.
Clean and classic aromas of dark-red fruit, from cherry to bramble, meet with candied rose petal and clove aromas on the nose of this appellation blend. The palate is led by allspice and dried mint, all packaged in a medium-bodied format.
Clean and composed SB, with lemon-lime aromas that settle more toward lime. The palate is clean, with basic depth that allows for nice green apple and dry green-herb flavors to show themselves. A little weak on the back end, and very “liquid” due to medium concentration.
Clean and crisp apricot, nectarine and green-melon aromas are typical for the variety. The solid, fresh palate is crystal clear, while flavors of peach and nectarine finish as smooth as glass.
Clean and crisp aromas of Asian pear, lemongrass, honeysuckle, passion fruit and green plum show on the nose of this blend of 64% Sémillon and 36% Sauvignon Blanc. The palate would go down very easy on a hot day, with just a touch of acid-carrying flavors of gardenia, guava, mango and kaffir lime leaf.
Clean and crisp aromas of Gravenstein apples, Bartlett pear and key lime pith meet with a slight hint of smoke wafting in the background on this bottling by onetime wunderkind Gavin Chanin. The sizzling acidity presents delicate flavors of nectarine, peach and mango, with a touch of butter toward the finish. The wine steadily improves days after opening. Enjoy now through 2025.
Clean and crisp in acidity, this polished PG features citrus fruit, pear, white flower and spice flavors. It's a racy, mouth-cleansing wine that's nice as an apéritif as the day comes to a close.
Clean and crisp in acidity, with a rich overlay of smoky, caramelized oak, this Chardonnay has appealing pineapple, peach and lime fruit flavors. There's a honey sweet finish, although the wine itself is totally dry. Good price for all this opulence.
Clean and crisp lines of sea salt and lemon zest meet with caramelized white peach and pear on the nose of this bottling from the Foley family. The palate's chalky texture delivers richer flavors of baked yellow pears, cinnamon and baking spice.
Clean and crisp with mineral nuances backed by peach and passion fruit, this white Lacryma Christi has all the right qualities to pair with finger foods and salads. The wine is lightweight and lean but tonic and firm at the same time.
Clean and crisp, the main aromas and flavors are green apples and spice. A forward, consumer-friendly, simple Chardonnay.
Clean and crisp, this has interesting flavors suggestive of green apples, lemons, limes and spices. Although it's dry, the alcohol level is modest.
Clean and crisp, this opens with aromas of white wildflower, pear and a hint of crushed rock. The lively palate delivers crisp green apple, lime zest and mineral alongside invigorating acidity.
Clean and crisp, this Sauvignon Blanc-Sémillon blend has flavors of lemons, limes, pineapples and spices. It's technically dry, but finishes with honeysuckle sweetness.
Clean and crisp, with classic flavors of lemons, limes and gooseberries, softened with a touch of buttercream and vanilla. The finish is fine and has a touch of sweet honeysuckle. A good value.
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.
Clean and direct, Aquila del Torre delivers a fresh and fragrant Friulano that boasts aromas of stone fruit, almond, melon and yellow rose. True to the variety, the wine tastes smooth and silky in the mouth.
Clean and dry, but unbalanced, with raisin skin tannins that make the wine feel harsh and astringent. The addition of Viognier to the Syrah adds citrusy acids to the black currants. Needs greater richness.
Clean and dry, this Petite Sirah has aggressive tannins and overripe currant and prune flavors. The high alcohol gives it a jalapeño-like burn.
Clean and easy drinking, this is created using a fruit from all three estate vineyards. Lightly spicy apple, pear and peach flavors combine gracefully, giving the wine a solid and appealingly fruity core.
Clean and easy lines of sea salt, pan-fried nectarine, light honeysuckle and a hint of sweet chive show on the nose of this bottling. The rounded mouthfeel brings forth flavors of buttered apples, salted pear slices and lemon curd, and there is a tannic tension that binds it all together.
Clean and easy, this has a bright fruit aroma, plus a subtle tone of burnt almond at the back. Pair this with ravioli and smoked ricotta cheese.
Clean and firm, with strawberry fruit and an earthy base. Hints of compost and tobacco came through in both the scents and flavors, while tannins were moderately coarse. Drink soon.
Clean and focused up front, with appealing cola, cherry and plum aromas. If you like wild berry flavors and juicy, borderline aggressive acidity, then Deyo fits your request. It's a fairly rough, spunky wine with finishing notes of espresso and bitter chocolate. Should match well with salty, robust foods.
Clean and forthright, this luminous Sauvignon offers pretty tones of sage, tomato leaf and exotic fruit. The wine is lean and easygoing overall with a lean, streamlined mouthfeel and would be great with appetizers.
Clean and fresh on the nose and palate with hints of fresh gooseberry, apple and red plum, Waters Crest's rosé could use a boost of concentration on the midpalate, but it's a simple, easygoing rosé for casual entertaining. Finishes tart, with a brisk, sour cherry note.
Clean and fresh strawberry fruit flavors rush from the glass; while in the mouth the wine also reveals an earthier side of the Syrah grape. The fruit and loam are further enhanced with streaks of raw meat and seaweed; complex and long-lasting.
Clean and fresh with lively citrus rind and red apple flesh aromas and flavors. It's not overdone and quite drinkable, with a soft toastiness that lingers through the finish. The texture is creamy and the swallow crisp.
Clean and fresh with medium-intense aromas and flavors of watermelon rind, carnation, red cranberry and a touch of green banana. Balanced and straightforward, and easy to find with 5,000 cases imported.
Clean and fresh, and also varietally correct as it unloads full but accurate aromas of cucumber, passion fruit and lime. Casas del Bosque does very well with Sauvignon Blanc. This wine has all the citrus, tang and style you could ask for, but it shows good depth and complexity as well, which is what pushes it up to the next level. For $14, this wine delivers plenty.
Clean and fresh, from a Royal Slope vineyard, showing white peach fruit with a pleasing hint of fresh herb. The acids are proportionate, and the mouthfeel offers a palate- cleansing wash of minerality.
Clean and fresh, this features largely neutral, mineral-driven aromas that hint at white fruit and melon. Citrus, particularly white grapefruit, is the lead flavor, while background notes of pith, melon and green banana make appearances. Fresh, crisp and nice on the finish.
Clean and fresh, this juicy wine carries a bit of fruit sweetness, but the flavors are tilted toward minerality rather than fruitiness. It's wonderfully refreshing, with a mix of citrus rind, melon and white peach working into an extended, palate-cleansing finish.
Clean and fresh, this Piedmontese white offers lively almond, pear and grapefruit aromas.  Light and even melon and pear flavors with herb accents grace the paalte and the fairly extended finish shows an attractive, slight spiciness.
Clean and fresh, this pure varietal Grenache captures the fruit nicely. Aged in neutral French oak for 15 months, it has smoothed out but shows no barrel spice at all. It's fruit, acid and crisp tannins, all in good proportion.
Clean and fresh, this value-priced southern Oregon Chardonnay offers balanced, elegant flavors of flower and fruit. Notes of apple and pear are front and center, with hints of white peach and cinnamon.
Clean and fresh, with light citrus and apple flavors. A pleasant, somewhat beery flavor.
Clean and fresh, with mineral undertones to the white grapefruit and fig flavors. Grassy upfront, providing that expected herbal edge. Drink now.
Clean and fruity--what can one reasonably ask of a wine at this price point? Pineapple and other tropical fruit flavors are delivered by a round, easy mouthfeel and soft finish.
Clean and full for starters, with big berry aromas and hints of freshly poured tar as well as minerality. The palate is pure and hits the nail on the head in terms of feel. Flavors of blackberry and plum are dark and generous. Finishes with pepper, espresso and chocolate. Very good wine for the price.
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.
Clean and inviting, but simple, with apple and fresh-herb aromas. The palate is properly crisp yet not sharp, and the flavors of green apple and white grapes are snappy. Regular and a little better than good in every way, but ultimately more basic than special.
Clean and light aromas of apples, sharp nectarine, yellow lilies and crushed white rocks make for a compelling nose on this bottling. The palate is very high-toned on first sip, then opens up with flavors of seared lemon rinds, saffron, sea salt and a light custard.
Clean and light with easy-pleasing notes of red apple flesh and tropical fruit acidity. A touch of buttered toasted challah bread adds depth to the close. Drink now.
Clean and minerally on the nose, but it's not very aromatic or exciting. The palate is fresh and tangy, with orange, lemon, green apple and mild spice flavors. The longer the wine sits, the more its acidity and raciness take over. Crisp and bone dry.
Clean and nice on the nose, with green fruit aromas and classic Verdejo prickle. The palate is bouncy and juicy, with lime, tangerine and passion fruit flavors. Fades quick on the finish but remains crisp and refreshing.
Clean and nice upfront, with blackberry aromas and sweet vanilla. A lot of heft to the palate, and plenty of cassis flavor and tobacco nuance on the finish. Oak rears up on the finish. Needs some time.
Clean and only ever so slightly waxy, with yellow-fruit aromas, mineral and floral scents all coming together. The palate is crisp, zesty and stony, with fresh Golden Delicious apple and tangerine flavors. All in all, the sum is more than satisfying. Drink as soon as possible.
Clean and penetrating on the nose, with leather and warm berry/cherry aromas. Comes across bright and lively, with good balance and an appealing, easygoing set of wild berry and spice flavors. Shows length and follow-through on the finish. Very good for affordable RDD.
Clean and polished with accents of spice, black fruit and touches of tobacco and resin, Brunello Clandestino would make an elegant pairing partner to delicate roast beef with crispy roast potatoes. Give those tight tannins more time to age.
Clean and proper, if a bit soft and simple. Shows modest cherry-berry flavors with a touch of oak.
Clean and pure, this is a bright and easy-drinking expression. Notes of white melon, pear, key lime and honeysuckle grace the bouquet and palate. Zesty citrus flavors coupled with medium acidity lend an attractive freshness through the close. Drink now.
Clean and ripe raspberry notes are cut with complex scents of coyote brush, slate and sweet tobacco smoke. The palate is juicy, with flavors of wild berries and Bing cherries as well as strong accents of dried herbes de Provence, sagebrush and chipped slate. Strong acidity tingles the tongue long into the finish.
Clean and ripe, with apple, pear and zesty citrus aromas. The palate runs more round and candied than linear and sharp, with sweet, welcoming flavors of white peach and dried citrus fruits. Fuller-bodied and inviting, but still fresh. Drink immediately.
Clean and savory, this has jammy orange and apricot flavors, which finish with a touch of honey. The acidity is bright and zesty. The chilly vintage shows in the form of a touch of green mint.
Clean and sleek on the palate, this wine has brisk Central Coast acidity, which highlights the complex flavors of green melon, lemon, lime, Asian pear and white pepper. Made without oak, it shows the wonderful terroir of its vineyard.
Clean and smooth lines of pear, lemon peel and nectarine are very fresh and easy in this blend of 71% Grenache Blanc, 15% Viognier and 14% Roussanne. It's straightforward on the palate, with Asian pear and melon-rind flavors. A great sunny day wine.
Clean and stylish, with hints of ginger ale and citrus on the nose. Good in terms of texture and flavors, with citrus and juicy nectarine working the palate. Focused and fairly long on the finish, with depth and integrity. Sweet in the extra dry style, but not candied or artificially sugared.
Clean and subtle with intriguing musk scents and a medium-weight palate with orange peel and lemon fruit. While the palate is a bit lazy, there's a hit of acidity on the finish to keep things fresh. Drink now.
Clean and sweet, with an aromatic touch of cookies and cream. In the mouth, it's more of the standard lemon, apple and mineral that you expect from this Galician white. Finishes easy and nice, but not too crisp.
Clean and tart in lemon flavor, it has a bright streak of acidity throughout. Refreshing, it'll work well as an apéritif, a hint of pear lingering on the soft palate and finish.
Clean and tight aromas of strawberry essence mesh with dried violets, rose petals, star anise and clove on this engaging while classically profiled bottling. It's light and lively on the palate, with tons of bright red fruit and cinnamon spice, showing cranberry tang in the midpalate and the structural bones to hold up its energetic game for years.
Clean and varietal, this firm and juicy Pinot Noir offers light, forward raspberry and plum fruit, dusted with cinnamon and cocoa. Medium concentration and length.
Clean and varietal, with cool-site flavors of lemon and lime. Bracing acidity, and cool, green fruit throughout.
Clean and varietally correct, this Cab offers direct flavors of blackberries, currants and smoky oak. It's a balanced young wine made for immediate consumption.
Clean and vibrant in the mouth, with zesty acidity and brisk flavors of tangerines, Meyer lemons, honey and vanilla. Nice as a cocktail sipper to get the evening started.
Clean and well-ripened fruit holds down center court here; tart and tight flavors of currant and berry. It's wrapped in a shell of tannin that is still hard and seeming to hold the wine back. The best guess is to give it some bottle age and let it breathe, and you will be rewarded with a polished and expressive wine.
Clean and well made, but underwhelming. There's basic blueberry and blackberry flavors riding on a medium-bodied palate, but overall the wine is more generic than specific. It's easygoing and causes no red flags to go up, however at the end of the day it doesn't show much personality.
Clean and zesty, this is a nice cocktail sipper, with rich flavors of green apples, pineapples, peaches, apricots, vanilla and spice. The honeyed finish is brightened with crisp acidity.
Clean apple fruit with some yellow plum as well, this carries a whisper of citrus. It's a sleek elegant wine, that won't overpower you, nor obscure the flavors of more delicate foods such as prawns or whitefish.
Clean aromas of banana and apple get this Chardonnay off to a solid start. The palate is alert and upright, with a note of resiny oak. Flavors of melon and peach are supported by snappy acidity.
Clean aromas of black cherry, dried thyme and white pepper show that this bottling isn't just all about creative packaging, with its Grim Reaper theme. The flavors are also cohesive and well integrated, with nutmeg, clove and stewed red cherry working together.
Clean aromas of cola, meat and wild berries are simple, and so is the wine in the mouth. Big fruit, spicy and sugary ripe, is wrapped in soft acids and tannins and a round, silky texture. Doesn't really drink like a California Syrah; more like a jammy, early drinking Aussie Shiraz. —S.H.
Clean aromas of honeysuckle converge with richer, rounded components of Asian pear, coconut and pineapple on the nose of this single vineyard expression. There's a caramel touch at the tip of the rich sip, with layers of brown spice, yellow fruit and rocky earth.
Clean aromas of nectarine and white peach meet with a touch of chalk, slight edge of lemon zest, sweet butter and sea salt on the nose of this bottling. There is a decent texture to the sip, where lemon, lime, toasted nuts and more sea-salt flavors show.
Clean Asian pear, wet gravel and lime peel aromas show on the tightly wound nose of this bottling. The palate is quite delicate at first, offering lightly seared white peach, chalk and lime zest notes, but grows increasingly savory and delicious as it opens, indicating great cellar potential. Drink 2018–2030.
Clean berry and cherry aromas come with a minerally, floral leaning. This is fresh, clean and juicy on the palate, with flavors of earthy plum and berry mixed with a fair amount of resiny oak. Overall this is a nice, bright, focused Rioja.
Clean but basic in its approach. The nose has dusty apricot and melon aromas, while the palate deals nectarine, citrus and peach flavors. That it's fresh, wet and easy on the tongue is probably the best thing it has going for it. Won't last a whole lot longer; drink now.
Clean but modest raspberry aromas set up a wiry palate. This tastes of tart plum, tomato and herbs. A minty green note rises up on a snappy palate that includes a touch of oak.
Clean but neutral, with decent lift, zest and body. The flavors run sweet to tropical, with pithy notes and a hint of green vegetables on the finish. Very basic and worthwhile, but regular in every sense of the word.
Clean but standard citrus and apple aromas set up a mild, citrusy palate. This wine offers green banana, melon and citrus flavors in front of a similar-tasting finish.
Clean floral, river stone and Asian pear aromas make for an inviting nose on this wine. There is moderate tension on the palate, where rounded Gala apple flavors meet with honeysuckle, jasmine and grapefruit pith.
Clean fresh-berry aromas lead into a lean, leathery palate with tart cherry fruit and tight, astringent tannins. It isn't a bad wine; but it's definitely lean as a wisp and drying. Undoubtedly it will work best with food.
Clean fruit-forward aromas of pear and tropical fruits introduce a smooth, slightly creamy palate with good acidic cut. Citrusy flavors of orange and lime dominate, while the finish is lasting and fresh.
Clean if slightly sweet notes of apple, Meyer lemon pith, honeydew melon, peach blossom and bubblegum show on the nose of this bottling. It's quite light on the palate, with touches of light pear and apple, with that bubblegum touch arising as well.
Clean in the glass, this SB smells like lime and grapefruit. The palate is equally citrusy in feel, with old-vine minerality. Flavors of white pineapple, tangerine, lime and grapefruit span the citrus spectrum, while the finish is sharp and angular.
Clean lemon and pineapple juice ride on a streamlined palate, driven by sharp, bracing acids.
Clean lemon and wet stone aromas are restrained on the nose. Pear, melon and pressed apple flavors ride around the lively lemon core of this medium-bodied wine.
Clean lines and fresh, oak-tinged aromas is what this Viura (with 10% Malvasia) is all about. The nose starts with lemon, green apple and a spot of vanilla, while the juicy palate brings bright white fruits, toasty oak and smoke. Not overly complex but not rudimentary or dull. A nice food wine and probably the best barrel-fermented white from Muga we've tried.
Clean lines of grapefruit, lime and lemongrass make for a fresh, somewhat angular nose on this zesty tongue-tingling bottling. The palate begins with a round orange-candy flavor and then dives into the sharpness of lime skins and grapefruit peels, with a sizzle of acidity that goes long and deep.
Clean lines of lemon-lime juice, orange zest, pink rose petals and peach show on the crisp yet ripe nose of this bottling. The palate is zesty and framed by a chalky tension, showing slightly sour flavors of lime peel and hints of stone fruit in the background.
Clean lines of nectarine, lemon blossom, orange sorbet and wet rock show on the lovely nose of this bottling from Trey Fletcher. Boisterous energy and a chalky grip power the palate, where citrus freshness dominates, and the acidity is powerful but not overblown. It will age with beauty and grace. Drink 2018–2035.
Clean lines of red cherry, fennel, crushed slate, dried sage and other minty aromatics show on the nose of this clonal study by Richard Sanford's winery. It's tart and herbaceous on the sip, with a backbone of red cherry fruit and pomegranate lifted by dried herbs and sagebrush.
Clean mineral notes blend nicely with fresh berry fruit, red rose and raspberry. This is a simple but genuine wine that would pair with roasted fish or vegetable risotto.
Clean mineral tones set the stage and are reinforced by pear, yellow flower and a touch of natural rubber. The pretty Fiano offers nutty nuances in the mouth that give it a bit more weight, complexity and grit. A great, refreshing white from one of Campania's best producers.
Clean mineral, saline, blanched almond and white-fruit aromas announce that this wine is still fresh and not losing a step just yet. Flavors of white peach, apricot, pineapple and green apple are pleasant, while the mildly pithy finish is short but cleansing. Drink now.
Clean nectarine and red plum aromas open this quaffable Garnacha rosé. Lightly salty stone-fruit flavors are pushed by bright acidity, which is about all that remains on a racy but mostly tasteless finish.
Clean notes of apple, melon and lime peel unfold of the nose and carry through to the lightweight mouth. There's ample acidity to keep the palate fresh, with a short finish.
Clean on the nose, with pure citrus and minerality. It's full but not heavy in the mouth, with developed, mature flavors of grapefruit and other citrus fruits. Mildly pithy, green and long on the finish. Not a prima ballerina; this has force and strength along with elegance.
Clean pear and apple aromas come in front of a citrusy palate with just enough shearing acidity to keep things balanced. Ringing, lasting lime and orange flavors are slightly briny, while this finishes solid and zesty.
Clean pear fruit on the nose and refreshing throughout. This wine works because it's straightforward and lightly oaked. The apple, melon and mineral flavors stand out, and the round body and solid finish carry it home.
Clean purple fruit aromas mix with grapeseed, Concord grape and caramelized black fruit scents on this bottling. Black plum, peppercorn, tart elderberry, tar, beef char and soy show on the palate, which is lifted by a lavender nuance.
Clean Slate offers forward, fresh grapefruit and lemon flavors with just a hint of smoke in this off-dry Riesling. It's a straightforward yet consistently elegant wine for everyday enjoyment.
Clean white-fruit aromas are fresh and dry. This brut Cava puts out citric notes on a palate with bright malic acidity. Lime and green-apple flavors finish fresh but without any shift towards complexity.
Clean white-fruit aromas are simple but pleasant. This Viura has a round, plump body that's a touch flat. Salty citrus flavors come with notes of lime and green banana. A lasting finish is mild and tasty. Drink immediately.
Clean white-fruit aromas include a note of pastry. This brut is tight and crisp on the palate, with flavors of green apple, lime and green herb that lead to a fresh finish.
Clean yet dilute on the bouquet, with touches of lime and grassiness. The palate, however, is kind of heavy and honeyed, a direct reflection of its warm Maipo roots. Tastes sweet and creamy but without much zesty fruit. Maybe a little too soft and candied, but still pretty good.
Clean, attractive aromas of fynbos and orange blossom add character to the fresh citrus and white melon core. The palate is light and vibrant, with pleasantly refreshing acidity and a subtly spiced pear-flavored finish. Enjoy now.
Clean, balanced and simply refreshing, this Sauvignon Blanc from Sebeka fits perfectly within their line of good, affordable wines. Crisp, clean, but flavorful with tropical fruit, it makes for a dependable summertime classic on the patio.
Clean, basic apple and pear aromas lead to a high-energy palate with medium weight and freshness. Salty stone-fruit flavors finish with acidic kick and enough body to rank as smooth.
Clean, bright and attractive, this bubbly offers refreshing notes of red apple, pear and just-dried sweet grass. There's a sharp, somewhat astringent texture to the palate, finishing tart and mouthwatering, with notes of currant and green plum.
Clean, bright and focused, this is currently showing its youth, though with great promise to continue to mature and flesh out with another couple of years. Notes of yellow apple, beeswax, straw and honeysuckle abound on the nose, while flavors of orange oil and honeycomb flesh out the medium-weight palate, with great verve and lingering spicy elements through the close. It's approachable now, but should drink best from 2018–2021.
Clean, bright and simple, this would taste great on a hot summer afternoon by the pool. Citrus, stone fruit and crushed white-pepper notes emerge on the finish.
Clean, brisk and balanced, with good varietal flavors of pineapples, limes, peaches and exotic tropical fruits, brightened with zesty acidity. This is a good price for a classic California Chardonnay.
Clean, cedary and dynamic, with fine black-fruit aromas on the nose. The palate has a full, layered texture that impresses, while the flavors of black cherry, blackberry and boysenberry carry toasty, dark, chocolaty accents. Savory and warm on the finish, with lots of power. A blend of 75% Malbec with 20% Tempranillo and 5% Syrah.
Clean, citric and precise on the nose, then exceedingly lean and pointy in the mouth, where uncompromised flavors of mineral, lime and orange peel set up a chalky, crisp finish. Mouthwatering and cleansing.
Clean, clear Sauvignon, as fresh as can be, but with some fatness to it. There are good gooseberry and green herb flavors, only the lightest of textures. Drink now.
Clean, correct and undoubtedly well crafted, this blend of 82% Cabernet and 18% Merlot features aromas of cassis, graham crackers and mint, then adds hints of vanilla and chocolate on the palate. It's a friendly, balanced style that should have broad appeal. Drink now–2015.
Clean, crisp and bright, this was fermented in stainless (with just 10% in neutral wood), and not put through malolactic. The blend is 60/40 Chardonnay/Pinot Noir, yielding fresh fruit flavors of apple and melon that are focused and precise. A streak of ginger runs through racy acidity.
Clean, crisp and dry, this gentle rosé has a light and pretty strawberry candy color and the flavors follow right along, with a citrusy snap in the acids.
Clean, crisp and easy to drink, with raspberry fruit accented by subtle wood spice and cedar elements. Tannins are soft, making this a Shiraz to drink now and over the next few years.
Clean, crisp and fresh, which is enough to satisfy most Pinot Grigio drinkers. This one blends Asian pear with hints of green herbs and lemon to make a refreshing summertime quaff.
Clean, crisp and stony aromas of lime zest, nectarine, peach blossom and chalk show on this brisk blend. There's lots of zing on the palate, with flavors of tangerine, lime and an array of citrus.
Clean, crisply defined green apple and pear fruit flavors anchor this high-acid Pinot Gris. A fine choice with cream-based sauces or seafood that needs something to cut through the flavor. More bottle age could round it out.
Clean, dry and spicy, this full-bodied wine has earthy flavors of cherries, red currants, licorice, bacon and sweet tobacco. Drink now.
Clean, expressive, elegant—everything comes together superbly in this beautiful blend from Radford Dale. Exhibiting the perfect balance of restrained minerality, meaty, smoky spice and full, delicious fruit, the wine ends with studied finesse. Pure class throughout.
Clean, fresh and fruity, this is soft and off dry, with red fruits and the softest texture. A fresh shot of acidity marks the end.
Clean, fresh and full of bright cherry and strawberry aromas. Offers the right size and balance, with red plum and red berry flavors touched up by light oak. Mildy toasty and textured on the finish.
Clean, fresh and inviting aromas are simple as rosé should be. Plum, raspberry and other red-fruit flavors are full and tight, with ripeness, acidity and just a hint of sweetness.
Clean, fresh and simple, this does not claim to be “unoaked” but it carries that style in its flavors, a snappy mix of green apple, pineapple and grapefruit. Good everyday drinking.
Clean, fresh and simple. Gran Feudo will neither thrill nor disappoint as it delivers adequate citrus, raspberry and rhubarb flavors propelled by choppy, stinging acids. It shows a good attack before breaking up on the finish. A can't-fail rosé for the summer and fall of 2008.
Clean, fresh and spicy on the close, this easy Rosso offers mild aromas of wild berry, raspberry and cranberry. The wine delivers a crisp feel in the mouth.
Clean, fresh and uncomplicated is the best way to describe the nose on this crisp, citrusy Cava. Flavors of green apple, white grapes and citrus fruits finish with ease and clarity.
Clean, fresh apple aromas and a minerally, citric palate are on point for brut nature. A lightly salty set of persimmon and apple flavors finishes lively, with dry citrus notes on the finish.
Clean, fresh aromas of plum, raspberry and cherry give this wine a red-fruited personality. The mouthfeel supplies grip and mild tannic clamp, while flavors of plum and berry come with a touch of resiny oak. This crianza is textured and solid on the finish, but still fresh. Drink now through 2017.
Clean, fresh, basic white-fruit aromas are stony. This is lemony, lean and crisp in feel. Flavors of briny citrus turn salty on a finish that tastes of fresh green herbs and scallion.
Clean, fresh, presentable aromas of red fruits are easy to like. This is balanced and offers just enough body to support cherry, nectarine and citrus flavors. The finish is crisp and lingers nicely.
Clean, fresh, stony aromas are basic but good. A round palate benefits from citric kick, while this tastes of mixed tropical fruits backed by skins-based bitterness.
Clean, fruity and a touch candied on the bouquet. The palate is narrow but saved by ripe black cherry flavors and spice notes. Finishes with a mocha-like flavor and a crisp, clean feel. A basic but more than satisfactory Malbec. Imported by Carolina Wine Brands USA Inc.
Clean, fruity and solid smelling, with a fresh, lightweight palate housing flavors of ginger, lime, lemongrass and powdered sugar. Easy on the finish. Textbook quaffing Cava if you like it a little sweet.
Clean, fruity and spicy, this has flavors of green apple and white plum. The wine is crisp and perfumed, with a great line of acidity on the finish.
Clean, fully loaded blackberry and dark plum aromas are smooth and subtle. In the mouth, this Tempranillo is chunky and solidly built, with earthy, roasted flavors of berry and plum. Savory, meaty flavors define the finish on  this dark-leaning, affordable Rioja.
Clean, green and not at all mean is how to best describe the aromas on this pure Verdejo. The mouthfeel is citric and crystalline. Flavors of citrus fruits, particularly lemon and lime, show a hint of matchstick sulfur, while the finish is the slightest bit nutty in flavor. Drink immediately.
Clean, lean and elegant, with mineral-infused citrus and green apple flavors set off by crisp acidity. There's no oak, but somehow the wine has a vanilla and honey richness.
Clean, mellow and inviting, this bears rich flavors of raspberries and cherries, brightened by crisp acidity. Drink now.
Clean, minerally and smells of tarragon, fresh bell pepper and lemony citrus. Feels lively, with pink grapefruit, passion fruit, lime and generic sweetness for flavors. A lip-smacking wine that's varietally accurate. 60% Verdejo and 40% SB.
Clean, minerally and subtle on the nose, with apple notes. The palate is crisp and honest, with normal, likable apple and citrus flavors. Just fleshy enough on the finish, with good length and acidity.
Clean, minerally, but with a spin of spice, the nose on this Chenin suggests fun. On the palate, a good balance of acid and body showcases the wine's citrus and honey flavors. Over all, a great everyday white.
Clean, modest lemon-lime aromas open this citrusy Sauv Blanc. Citrus, nettle, white pepper and jalapeño flavors are direct, while the finish hums with peppery spice and preserving acidity.
Clean, neutral aromas of white fruits, hay and vanilla wafer lead to a citrusy, round palate. This fresh Chardonnay offers orange and apple cider flavors in front of a clean finish.
Clean, peachy aromas set up a light, minerally, citrusy body. Flavors of gooseberry, lime and lemon hold steady and double up on gooseberry on the finish. Overall, this is round, minerally and elegant, but also slightly sour and edgy.
Clean, pleasant aromas suggest homemade applesauce. This is more fresh and fruity than weighty and yeasty. Slightly bitter, dry lime flavors are offset by sweeter pear and apple notes, while a lemon-lime flavor drives the finish.
Clean, poised, lemony freshness on an arrow-straight body. Zesty refreshment in one clean and compact package.
Clean, poised, rounded notes of ripe, red-cheeked apples play on every front. There is something joyous and bountiful here. The frothy mousse accentuates the light-hearted but generous aspect on the dry but rounded palate, which also brings ample refreshment.
Clean, pure and lightweight, with aromas of citrus blossom and lychee. The mouth is zesty and crisp, with citrus, lychee and pineapple flavors. Don't expect miracles and it'll work wonders as an apéritif. But drink it soon to capture its white-fruit intensity. Tastes better and fresher than Andeluna's 2006 Torrontés.
Clean, pure and uncomplicated on the nose, showing depth and clarity. Smells and tastes much like a good Malbec or Cabernet might; it's sweet and fruity, with black cherry, pastry, baking spices and a certain rubbery quality that seems to come with Bonarda. On the money for this variety.
Clean, reserved citrus and ocean-influenced aromas set up a zesty palate with a common mix of tangerine, lime and green-herb flavors. A lasting finish with peppery snap helps this along.
Clean, ripe and pure, this attractive rosé opens with scents of red currant, slightly medicinal cherry and savory herbs. Light weight and refreshing, the easy-pleasing red-fruit flavors are bright and tasty on the palate and linger softly through the close. Drink now.
Clean, ripe apple notes glide across nose and palate in a fruity, refreshing, balanced and easy-drinking white. Drink soon while aromas are at their peak.
Clean, saline-driven aromas of apple and minerals filter into a round, plump, fresh palate. This tastes of lime, green apple and green herbs, while a cucumber note comes up on a juicy, tangy finish.
Clean, simple and correct, this wine offers an excellent window into the Nebbiolo grape. From a young vintage and free of the aromas and textures associated with long aging in wood, this bright wine focuses on quality of fruit and fresh berry aromas backed by crispness and good structure.
Clean, simple and fresh on the nose, this is showing aromas of lime and apple cider. The palate is creamy and melony more than sharp and acidic, with leesy pear and apple flavors that finish short but bright. Drink now.
Clean, simple pear, melon and apple aromas are friendly. Reasonably full and fresh on the palate, this value-priced wine tastes of tropical fruits including banana and papaya as well as honey. A slightly oily finish gives weight to closing citrus flavors.
Clean, slender poise and quiet citrus conviction give this wonderfully light wine its chief character. There is gentle but pure lemon freshness at the very core of this, radiating weightless brightness. This leaves you thoroughly refreshed. With its energy and drive this wine means that conversation will be enlivened rather than dampened.
Clean, snappy aromas of apple and citrus are sharp but appealing. This fresh, healthy white offers tangerine, nectarine and stony flavors before a crisp, refreshing finish.
Clean, stony aromas are more neutral than fruity. This feels good and standard, with fresh acidity. Mild flavors of citrus, stone fruits and yeast fade quickly on the finish.
Clean, straightforward aromas of berry, cassis and mineral are nice, while the palate has ample lushness, purity and focus. Flavors of cola, black currant and blackberry are solid, and the finish keeps its pose. On the money for a regular, journeyman's Malbec.
Clean, stylish and easy to like, this has apple and green herb aromas. It shows a good weight and mouthfeel, with papaya, thyme and baked apple flavors. Medium long and smooth on the finish, this is a commendable value-priced bubbly.
Clean, tart and expressive, this has flavors of Asian pear, orange, lime, vanilla and gooseberry. Bright and zesty, this would make for a fine apéritif, and it would also pair well with Asian fare.
Clean, tart and herbal, this Sauvignon Blanc has front-and-center flavors of bright citrus and green apple. A slight hint of baking spice comes through on the finish.
Clean, taut green apple and zesty lemon are the chief markers of this slender, dry wine. It holds lots of refreshment and has a racy core. Have this on its own when in need of refreshment, or have it with food when there is light, subtle fare.
Clean, tight and crisp, this treads a straight, citrusy path seamed by a phenolic touch and the aroma of crisp, green pears.
Clean, very fresh, very crisp. There is some body to it, with green herbal flavors and red plum juice. The finish is packed with acidity.
Clean, vibrant in acidity and ripe in fruit, with lemon and lime flavors accented with a hit of green gooseberries. The finish is totally dry and stimulating. The cool 2012 vintage has given this wine elegance, making it a another value after the 2010 and 2011.
Clean, wet, a bit sweet and rather formulaic, this Verdejo has a soft, chummy personality and seemingly more than a dash of residual sugar. Still, it manages to push tasty apple cider, papaya and other fuller-bodied, less acidic flavors.
Cleaner than the producer's Pouilly-Fumé, with gooseberry and popping citrus aromas, this wine is still a bit lean. But it does offer nice grapefruit and green apple flavors atop a very tight structure. All in all, it's crisp and easy to drink, which is what a basic Sancerre should be.
Cleanliness is a fleeting quality on this rosé, which smells compromised and artificial. A modest palate feel and dry, hollow, mostly fruitless flavors lead to a bland finish.
Cleansing minerality defines this brilliant and luminous Gavi from Northern Italy. It's food-friendly to the core with fresh floral aromas and crisp acidity. Try this beautiful wine with sushi or Mediterranean fish.
Clear and focused, with raspberry and edgy spice aromas to the nose. The palate doesn't bring a whole bunch of meat or heft, but it is clean, racy and food-friendly. Flavors of red berries and pepper are normal and expected, while the finish is dry and lean.
Clear and light in color and texture, this offers an inviting floral and citrus bouquet, while the palate flirts with Asian five-spice and black cherry. While the fruit is compelling, the structure is undefined and the finish a tad flat.
Clear and light in color, this complex vineyard-designate sings in tea and nutmeg spice, allowing for richer, riper flavors of baked cherry. Velvety in texture, it builds to a full-figured finish, echoing that initial savory intrigue of black tea.
Clear and light in color, this dusty smelling Cava offers aromas of briny peach and citrus fruits. The palate is solid, with a round texture and flavors of sulfur, lemon-lime, tangerine and nectarine. A tight, lean finish feels minerally but tastes a bit gaseous.
Clear and light in color, this is an earthy, stemmy wine that discloses rhubarb, cranberry and black tea, on the more extreme side of tart. Light bodied, it stays fresh on the palate, with some tension and grip, finishing with an additional note of tartness.
Clear and light in color, with noticeably bright acidity, this white becomes voluptuous on the palate, revealing a mix of caramel apple and crème brûlée around a medium-bodied texture.
Clear and lucid to the eye, this Verdejo shows pine, grapefruit, orange and apple aromas along with oily pith. The mouthfeel is more plump and wet than defined, while lychee and melon flavors are offset by tolerable bitter pyrazines and grapefruit flavors.
Clear as a white wine, this combines 53% Pinot Noir and 47% Chardonnay into a golden hay color that shows a distinct crispness and low to no oak. High acidity is further accentuated by sharp flavors of green apple and lime.
Clear as crystal up front, and then come flavors of lemon and green apple. There is almost no overt sweetness to it; it's quite acidic and sharp, which is common for the Hondarrabi Zuri grape from Northern Spain. As might be expected, green apple and lime control the austere finish. Good but very narrow in scope.
Clear as day in the glass, with forced oak and spring flowers in the nose. In a word, it's strange. In the mouth, you'll get sweetness and other flavors not generally associated with Chardonnay. It's not necessarily a bad white wine, but it is definitely at odds with typical Chardonnay.
Clear in color and texture, this is a refined and yet voluptuous wine, a blend from several of the producer's single-vineyard designates, from Ridgetop Vineyard near Annapolis to Gap's Crown within the Petaluma Gap. It works on several levels, retaining the acidity of the cooler sites while combining the deeper, more complex aspects of others. Expect dark cherry and blueberry along a foundation of earthy truffle.
Clear, breezey tangerine and grapefruit aromas roll out the red carpet on this crisp, citrusy SB that pours on the green fruit and scallion flavors. The palate is both round and crisp, and the finish is long and juicy. For fresh, citrusy, varietally correct Sauvignon Blanc, it's hard to do better.
Clear, bright and fragrant, with a soft and seductive nose. This is a wine that can only be called pretty, with a light floral component to it—roses maybe. There’s lots of ripe black-cherry fruit, some raspberries, and a chocolaty edge. It’s made for drinking right away, but structured enough for near-term aging.
Clear, light and varietal, this wine ping-pongs between subtle cinnamon and Asian spice around dark cherry and earth, with a big, juicy hit of oak and intense tannin. It finishes full-figured and robustly concentrated.
Clear, light color reveals the elegance at the core of this coastal wine. It reigns in ripeness without sacrificing flavor or complexity. Stemmy, earthy overtones meet a vibrantly spicy bite of cherry and white pepper. The silky texture compels one to want more.
Clear, well-defined varietal scents of pepper, licorice and boysenberry cut through, with a hint of fresh-cut tobacco. A substrate of granite underscores this ripe, supple, medium-long wine with good grip and a polished mouthfeel. Drink 2015 through 2020.
Clearly a step in quality above the winery's regular release. A slight cloudiness suggests an unfiltered wine -- whether or not this is true -- but it has the stuffing of flavor and texture that make it interesting. Pale in color, delicate of body, with intensely spicy, raspberry and tobacco flavors and perky acids. Catch it in its youth for flamboyance and spirit.
Clearly a winner, a wine that shows its terroir in the mineral, slate, vanilla and cotton candy aromas. The flavor is hard to describe, sort of a mix of tapioca, rasberry puree and gunflint. Very acidic and crisp, with a long, firm and steely finish that cries out for rich, complex foods.
Clearly an older wine, picking up a bottle bouquet of dried herbs, lees and yeast, riding on top of basic peach, pear and tropical fruits. Drinks very dry and crisp. The fruit is beginning to fade, leaving behind flavors of dried leaves, herbs, minerals and spice. An interesting wine of considerable nuance and subtlety.
Clearly focused and fruit-driven, this wine has a bonanza of dark-fruit aromas, while concentrated and focused fruit flavors wash over the palate. It offers the balance and freshness to pair broadly with different cuisines and is just a pleasure to sip and savor.
Clearly from a cool climate, dominated by tomato, mushroom and herb flavors just breaking into black cherry. Dry, with great acidity and complex tannins. This is a subtle Pinot that will appeal to tasters who enjoy thinking about what's in their mouth. Editors' Choice.
Clearly labeled as a medium-sweet wine, this wine's rather dry bouquet gives no hint of the soft, cloying palate to follow. This sweetness is more than medium to this taster, but it could be just the thing for guests who find normally dry wines puckery. —M.M.
Clearly well-origined, to judge from the fine structure and essential purity. But it's a very tannic, closed wine, with a mouth-numbing astringency that accentuates the acidity. Even so, it's so ripe in blackberries and currants it's almost drinkable now, with a good decant. But you're best off cellaring a good 4–6 years.
Clearview's Chardonnays are always opulent and textural, and this ultra-luxe offering exemplifies the house style. Aromas of grilled fruit mesh beautifully with toasted whole grain on the nose, while similar flavors swirl endlessly in the mouth. Yet despite being warm and welcoming, full bodied and broad on the palate, it's refreshingly firm on the lengthy finish. Drink now–2016.
Clifton Hill Syrah looks and smells the way you'd hope it would, black in the center, purple/garnet at the edges, peppery and loaded with sweet grapey fruit. Viognier skins—not juice—added to the fermenter elevate the aromas with floral and citrus accents. It's juicy and fairly light in flavor, but clean and very fresh, with no new oak.
Cline's Oakley is more than halfway made up of Syrah, with smaller smatterings of Petite Sirah, Barbera and Cabernet Franc. The tinkering in the cellar works, the wine refreshing in strawberry jam, soft and rich with an herbal presence and kiss of vanilla on the finish.
Cline delivers a juicy and inviting refresher here, pretty in pink salmon color and ripe in raspberry and plum flavors that flood the midpalate and finish dry. This is a great bargain sipping wine that will bring a taste of spring to your autumn table.
Cline has done a very nice job with this Zin, which comes partly from Lodi. Although it's very soft and won't age, it has a velvet and silk purity that carries rich flavors of cherries, raspberries, licorice, sweet vanilla and pepper.
Cline makes a lot of this wine and they do a good job with it. Soft and leathery in spicy baked plum and blackberry, this is a perfet wine to pair with a myriad of midweek meals and outdoor parties.
Clingy, concentrated peach and pink grapefruit flavors abound in this fresh, fragrant semisweet Riesling. Zesty acidity balances out all the sweet, juicy fruit, highlighting a long, pleasantly astringent lime pith finish.
Clipped and pruney smelling, with condensed, dull aromas. The palate is soft and mealy, with big tannins, heft and prune-like flavors. Never really finds solid ground or footing; substandard for Mendel.
Cloak & Dagger's film noir styling fits the dark and brooding character of this wine. Cola and graphite aromas mix with fresh blackberry and blueberry on the nose. The palate is well-structured with tangy, plum skin-like acidity while delivering satisfying dark chocolate, black olive and black cherry flavors.
Clocking in at a lower alcohol level than most white wines in the state let alone reds, this offers gentle aromas of raspberry, cherry and woodspice. It's light bodied, soft and airy in feel, not fully standing out on its own but perfectly suited for the dinner table.
Clos Apalta continues to push the envelope for Chilean icon wines. It's always been a blend of four or five Bordeaux grapes, and the 2005 is every bit as structured, tight and ripe as any predecessor. There is an intense blanket of new oak that tastes of mint, cinnamon, sawdust and black licorice. When that subsides (maybe in another 12 months), expect racy and complex berry flavors, pinpoint tannins and preserving acidity. Hold for another two years; then drink through 2014.
Clos Apalta, depending on your point of view, is arguably Chile's best wine. And this vintage is outstanding! Earth, minty spice, ripe berry, minerality and smoky aromas cover the bases. It's superbly structured, with a fine texture and depth. Tastes lush and complex, with blackberry, crème de cassis, fine herbs and tobacco. Finishes classy. Drink now through 2016.
Clos de los Siete is a perennial leader among under-$20 wines from Argentina. Blueberry and graham cracker aromas are ripe and a touch reduced. The palate is saturated yet juicy, while blackberry, boysenberry, cardamom and nutmeg flavors feed into a dark tasting, compact finish. For a 50,000-case wine, this is a prize to behold.
Clos des Myglands is a vineyard wholly owned by Faiveley. In 2010, it has produced a richly structured wine, full of ripe plum and sweet acidity that dominates the firm tannins. The finish is juicy, balanced by a jammy character.
Clos du Bois continues their effort with this great red variety of Spain, and the '05 is their best yet. It's like a good Zinfandel, except not as full-bodied, with spicy black pepper, cherry and currant flavors, wrapped into firm tannins. Could even improve with a few years in the bottle.
Clos du Val has always made wines with long-term cellaring in mind. This blend, based on Cabernet Sauvignon, is dry and tannic, with spicy, toasty oak dominating. Beneath that are rich, compelling notes of cassis and dark chocolate. The alcohol is refeshingly low, below 14%. This dramatic wine needs a minimum of six years, and should develop for at least ten.
Clos du Val has gone as far as they intend to in order to make a ripe, opulent Cab in the modern Napa cult style. But they remain faithful to their Bordeaux-inspired house style, which is leaner and more tannic than most. The result is a natural cellar candidate, with an official alcohol of only 13.5%. Rich in blackberries and black currants, this wine should easily develop over the next 10–15 years.
Clos Marco pays tribute to the late, much-loved winery dog, and a lovely memorial bottle it is. All stainless-fermented and aged, it's loaded with tangy apple fruit and vivid acidity. Pineapple and citrus fruit provide additional accents, with a bright, concentrated, lengthy finish. Put this one away for a few years and you might be surprised how good it will be.
Clos Saint Landelin is a portion of the Vorbourg Grand Cru vineyard wholly owned by Muré. This rich wine is comfortably excessive, very full of spice and lychee flavors. Medium dry in character with a dry core, it is still young and could age. Drink from 2017.
Clos Ste Hune comes from a small parcel in the Rosacker Grand Cru vineyard. It is a wonderful, ethereal paean to Riesling—crisp while intensely perfumed with aromas of fennel and licorice. It's dry in style, with elegant citrus flavors and a straight line of steely acidity, but finishes with a hint of honey. While delicious now, it's not quite mature and could continue to improve until 2025.
Clos Windsbuhl in Hunawihr is the northernmost of Zind-Humbrecht's collection of vineyards. In 2012, it has produced an impressive wine that has all the right spice of Pinot Gris along with acidity and a fresh edge. That gives this rich wine a great lift, with a waft of pear to go with the yellow-fruit flavors. Drink from 2016.
Close in quality to Cabernets costing far more, this has elaborate blackberry, cherry and currant flavors. The all-important mouthfeel is dry and crisp, with fine tannins. It's not an ager, but shows plenty of class.
Close to black in color, with a hint of rust around the rim, this reductive wine carries a scent of burnt rubber. Flavors suggest riper grapes than the listed alcohol would indicate, with brown sugar, ripe black cherry and some dusty tannins.
Close to Epernay and on the cusp of the Chardonnay-dominated Côte des Blancs, this producer has Grand Cru holdings in the village of Chouilly. Those vines have produced a wine that balances mineral-laced fruit with a soft aftertaste. Young and with apple flavors, it's great now but will continue to develop in the cellar. Drink from 2018.
Close to Fronsac, this is a Merlot-dominated wine that has soft, ripe fruit. It shows sweetness and open berry flavors touched by chocolate and licorice. To be   opened over the next 2–3 years.
Close to Gaillac, this vineyard has a Mediterranean feel to it, making it good for Syrah. The wine is rich, softly textured, aromatic and smooth. Wood aging gives a rich texture that partners the full black fruits. It will age relatively quickly, so drink from 2016.
Close to half Viognier, this is cofermented with Roussanne and Marsanne, then blended with 7% Grenache Blanc. A small portion of the Viognier was fermented in Acacia oak. Deep and rich flavors are packed with sliced pear, then range on through oranges and mixed citrus, adding a touch of vanilla in a fresh tangy lingering finish.
Close to Margaux, this château has produced a ripe, soft wine that brings out the fruitiness found in the best of 2013 wines. It is full of black-currant juiciness, with acidity and soft tannins. It should be ready to drink soon, certainly from 2017.
Close to Saint-Tropez the vineyards of the Massif des Maures have produced an attractively fruity wine that has an unusual blending including the rare Caladoc grape. Raspberry fruits are right up front, giving a bright, ripe character.
Close to Sancerre, Menetou-Salon produces a soft style of Pinot Noir, the acidity tamed by fresh tannins and loganberry fruits. A hint of wood gives extra weight.
Close to the beach of Pampelonne, this is a ancient vineyard. It has produced a 2013 that is full of fruit, dense red flavors and fresh acidity. The wine is rich and lightly textured.
Close to the beaches of Saint-Tropez, this estate has produced a light-hearted wine that is fresh and crisp. The blend of Ugni Blanc, Clairette and Rolle give a light, bright character, with lemon and refreshing final acidity.
Close to the Côtes de Blaye vineyards in the northwest of Bordeaux, Loumelat offers a crisp, fruity 2012. There is a smoky edge from the wood aging as well as black currant fruit that is still young. Acidity cuts through the aftertaste. Drink from 2016.
Close to the Gironde estuary, le Temple's wines are dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, making for a powerful, complex bottling, with great acidity and black currant flavor. This has potential to age for at least five years.
Close to the Grand Cru vineyards, Mont de Milieu is one of the best known of the Premier Crus. A rounded, full wine, this balances ripe yellow fruits with toast and tighter acidity. It's a stylish wine that asserts itself with the rich fruitiness and the spicy aftertaste. Drink from 2018.
Close to the Listrac vineyards and with the same ownership as Cap Léon Veyrin, this estate is on some of the same limestone soil as that appellation. The wine is structured and tight with firm tannins. The 55% of Merlot does suggest a juicy character although this will take time to develop and fill out. Drink from 2020.
Close to the Sainte-Victoire mountain, this estate's vineyards run between 900 and 1,300 feet in elevation. That gives this attractive wine its cool feel. It is fruity while also having a tangy texture and fine acidity. The wine is well in balance and full of fruit.
Close to the Serra da Estrela, Portugal's highest mountain range, the Quinta da Garrida shows all the structure of Dão wines. This is a firmly mineral wine, very textured with a hint of the oak aging as well as more open yellow fruits. Drink from 2016.
Close to the slope of Grand Crus, Fourchaume is one of the best known of the premiers in Chablis. This ripe wine with its touches of vanilla as well as yellow fruits and acidity has a lightly honeyed character typical of the vintage. It is ready to drink, although it will be better from 2017.
Close to the village of Aloxe-Corton, this vineyard is one of the smallest of the Corton grand crus. This wine, still fresh while also closed up with tannins, is dark, structured and has the potential to age many years. Intense red-berry acidity and a tight, dry core still convey youthfulness. Drink this impressive wine from 2022.
Close to the white grand crus of Chassagne-Montrachet, this wine is structured and weighty, and it offers juicy apricot and pear flavors. A citrus element cuts through the wood influence and the steely texture, which brings freshness to the ripe, rich mouthfeel.
Closed-up at present, this aromatic brooder has notes of red and black fruit, scorched earth and herbs, along with a floral top note. It has a mountain-fruit profile of firm, chewy tannins, tart acids and dense flavors. Time in the cellar is required to fully appreciate it. Let it be until at least 2020 but it should have a good 15 years beyond that.
Closed and firm at this early stage, the wine from Jean-Michel Bergeron has good potential. It is rich with plenty of black-currant fruit as well as dry tannins. Give this wine its time and wait until 2019.
Closed and firm, this wine has considerable structure, tannic and steely together. It's a forbidding wine at this stage, although it will develop much greater fruitiness and freshness as it ages. Under the structure, the wine has apple skin, hints of apricots and green pear flavors. The end brings in spice from the wood aging. Drink from 2019.
Closed and funky out of the bottle, but time allows the wine to round into form. As it does that, oak and coffee aromas emerge from the schisty bouquet, while the palate is mocha-infused and loaded with dark, masculine fruit. Arguably a little woody and resiny, but there's no challenging the wine's power, integrity and Priorat character.
Closed and in need of air at first, this takes on a ripe, medicinal, almost candied red-fruit nose. Next up is a full, wide-bodied palate with chunky plum and raspberry flavors. This old-vines Garnacha is ripe, tasty and all about the fruit. Drink through 2020.
Closed and muted on the nose at first, this wine shows varietal scents that include blue and red berry fruit and dried sage. Softly textured, it's an approachable middle-of-the-road Syrah.
Closed and tight, this wine is full of tangy acidity, giving it an almost too-fresh character lifted by spice and a mineral aftertaste.
Closed and tight, this wine takes a while to reveal its ripe pear and apricot flavors. It is rich, but keeps its freshness very much to the fore. Lemon zest and tangerine fruits give acidity, which is rounded out by a spicy, lightly toasty aftertaste.
Closed and youthful, this wine is medium in build and subtle in oak. It conveys a briny streak throughout the palate, and a distinct taste of candied lemon.
Closed aromas make it a challenge at first to get a read on this wine that takes time to unfurl touches of herb and dried fruit. Soft in tannin and low in oak, it offers a depth of black cherry and vanilla on the palate, with a touch of cedar and currant.
Closed aromas of red fruits, wet cement and green herbs precede a flat fairly tannic palate. Grinding cherry and plum flavors finish with hard tannins and midland rubbery red-fruit flavors.
Closed aromatically at first, this medium-bodied wine develops dark plum and cocoa notes amidst a juicy mid palate. Dusty tannins end things nicely. There's not a lot of red wine out there of this quality at this price.
Closed aromatically, this Chardonnay has a lemon-lime crispness that follows straight into vanilla and toasty oak. Young, it finishes on a sour note.
Closed aromatically, this tannic Cab doesn't impart much in the way of fruit, offering leather and herbs instead.
Closed at first and immediately tannic, this Petite opens up in vibrant ways, showing off a soft texture and earthy blackberry and blueberry flavors. Long on the finish, it's round enough to pair with something gamey.
Closed at first, this El Dorado Cab slowly reveals minty and savory aromas, the wine's flavors also more on the austere and savory side of things, a touch of blackberry and cherry finally coming through.
Closed at first, this wine opens to reveal soft, chewy undertones of ripe red cherry and raspberry, a lilting underground of vanilla developing over time. Medium in build and length, it's well made and approachable, a good choice for versatile palates.
Closed at this stage, the wine has acidity, minerality and the potential of ripe pear and apricot fruit flavors. The wood is showing strongly but will integrate, while the texture promises good aging.
Closed at this stage, this promises a huge, ripe future. Toast and spice notes are balanced around a black plum flavor. The dense, dark tannins create a brooding character, which is balanced by freshness on the finish. Give this wine at least 10 years.
Closed cellar aromas burn off to reveal black fruit, baking spices and balsamic notes. The palate is subdued, showing raw cherry-berry, cooking spices and herbs alongside nervous acidity and astringent tannins.
Closed in aromas, this wine has big, structured tannins and minty black fruit, and is soft in texture. Chocolate, leather and tobacco are the main points, dark plum fruit the afterthought.
Closed on the nose at first, after opening there's a lot of intrigue to this savory Chardonnay, bright in acidity and deftly layered on the palate in herbal thyme and baked pear. Medium in weight it has a salty, briny edge that's a ton of fun.
Closed on the nose at first, this wine reventualy reveals black currant and cassis around wrapped tobacco leaf, the midpalate somewhat dry and puckering in tannin. Concentrated and dense, it finishes in dusty mocha.
Closed up and firm with a hint of vanilla, honey and refined acidity. There is some crispness here, green apples and a plum skin character. This is going to be serious Chardonnay; the minerality already in evidence.
Closed up and firm, the wine is not showing much in the way of expressive fruitiness. It does have a firm structure, but a taste of bitter extract gives hard tannins and smothers the black currant fruit flavors. In time, it will soften. Drink from 2017.
Closed up and just hinting at its great potential, this wine is showing tannins and a dry, solid core. Slowly it reveals delicious, opulent red berry fruits and concentrated texture. It needs a lot of time before drinking; wait until 2019.
Closed up tightly, this wine is not yet entirely ready to reveal its charms. Over time it offers aromas of blackberry, huckleberry, bittersweet chocolate, barrel spices and mineral. True to the house style, it pulls no punches with creamy feeling, rich black and blue fruit flavors that sail into the distance. Give it time to open up.
Closed with a pretty glass cork, Invetro (translated as “in glass” in Italian) offers fresh tones of wild berry and raspberry. This easy, lively red blend would match succulent meat or spicy pork.
Closed with an innovative glass cork, Moscabianca offers floral tones of honeysuckle and jasmine. It delivers rich density and a smooth, creamy texture and loads of fresh peach and apricot flavors.
Closer in style to a light red wine than a traditional dry rosé, this is dark pink—nearly pomegranate—in color, and boasts hints of leather, berries, dried herbs and white chocolate. Textured and round in the mouth, the only quibble is its relatively quick fade on the finish. Drink now.
Closer to Bordeaux than is Cahors, this is Malbec with a cooler visage. It has spice and stalky tannins along with plenty of acidity. The wine is bright with red berry fruits and a crisp lightly mineral aftertaste. Drink from 2018.
Clouds of aromatic flower play along with zesty orange flavors. Grapefruit provides spice and drive. The palate shows that counterpoint of ripeness and tartness that makes this so very moreish. This is juicy and powerful, yet precise and toned despite all its generosity. This is a light, tightrope walk between two thrilling worlds. It's full of life and joy with an endless finish.
Clouds of powdery mineral and pollen blanket dense, ripe peach and apricot in this sprightly, feather-light Riesling. Semidry in style, it bristles with tart tangerine acidity. The finish is long and perfumed in honeysuckle. Drink now through 2025.
Cloudy and a little stewy at first, which gives it a richer, plumper outward personality. With loads of earth and leather, fruit takes an early back seat before rising up in the form of black plum and berry. Finishes plump, with adequate structure. Gets better the more you get to know it.
Cloudy and exuberant in saltwater taffy, this wine is crisp and vivid in lemon, tangerine and vanilla. The oak is well behaved and game to provide structure without obstruction. Pear and apple give it weight and body with a stony minerality playfully drawn on the finish.
Cloudy and reddish-brown, this is a funky, spritzy wine with a taste of red cherry that falls somewhat flat on the finish.
Cloudy as dark hay and still evolving, this memorable wine is deliciously toned in lime zest, salty brine and a supporting note of clarified butter. Intense on the palate at first, it relaxes to let its sublime, innate acidity speak as a twist of hazelnut delights on the finish.
Cloudy Bay's latest vintage is the first from their own vineyards in Central Otago and reflects a step up in quality despite a challenging vintage. Plummy fruit dominates the rather chunky wine, framed by hints of toast and dried herbs, while moderately dusty tannins and bright acids mark the finish. Drink 2018–2025.
Cloudy in appearance but fairly clear on the nose and palate. Rhubarb and cherry aromas give this an austere, red-fruit bouquet, and the palate rests on racy cherry and doesn't budge. Lean late in the game, with coffee and bitterness to the thin, mildly grating finish.
Cloudy in color and intense in acidity, this estate wine shows a richness of apple, pear and anise, cradled in oak, that finishes tartly.
Cloudy in color, with tart rhubarb aromas. The palate shows some acidity and tang, with pink grapefruit flavors offering a shrill kick. But overall the wine has seen better days and has become limited in scope at this point.
Cloudy to the eye, with overly green aromas of tomato and bell pepper, along with spice and dried cherry. Feels hot and acidic, with a clipped, cutting palate full of berry flavors, herbs and green pepper. Fresh but herbal on the finish.
Cloudy to the eye, with strained aromas of sauerkraut and barnyard animal. Feels heavy and tastes rustic, with burnt, stalky, anonymous flavors. Shows bitterness and stalky flavors on the finish.
Cloudy with a touch of reduction on the nose, this wine opens with a heady perfume of roses, kirsch and crushed strawberries, tight and lively on the palate in fresh acidity. It remains highly aromatic in the glass.
Cloudy, pungent and supremely earthy, this wine reveals its delicate acidity over time, bringing balance to its flamboyant fruit. With intense strawberry, orange peel and black tea flavors, it's savory and richly built, finishing on a touch of smoky vanilla.
Clove-spiced pomegranate juice hits the nose first on this top-end bottling from the Foley family. It also offers some soy and sesame scents. A minerally line of pencil lead and black rocks coalesce the palate around savory, tangy flavors of tart cherry, incense, Earl Grey tea and orange rind.
Clove and barrel spice are dominant factors in this ripe Tannat, from first whiff to the finish. In between, there's char on the nose and palate as well as ripe blackberry and black currant flavors blended with wood-based pepper, nutmeg and more. A smoking, chewy, tannic finish closes this out. Drink from 2016–2019.
Clove and beef jerky aromas are odd and forceful. A globular palate lacks form and balance, while this tastes oddly and singularly of clove.
Clove and clam shell aromas are strange and not enticing. This feels grabby and scratchy, with a strong covering of clove on top of dry tomato and tart berry flavors. A raw finish is abrasive in feel.
Clove and dark Indian spice is the protagonist here and background aromas of cherry and moist earth play supporting roles. The wine is smooth and soft in the mouth with a bright, zesty close.
Clove and licorice gum drop aromas are oaky and forced. This Graciano, typical for the grape type, is crisp, raw and snappy in feel. Flavors of woody red plum and raspberry finish resiny, salty and minty.
Clove and pepper spice the dark red cherry aromas on this lovely Montepulciano. Judicious use of French oak makes for a smooth, full-bodied wine with rustic tobacco and smoke notes that highlight the wine's concentrated black fruit and sturdy tannins.
Clove and peppercorn give this an herbal edge around juicy cranberry and cassis. All five of the classic Bordeaux red varieties are represented here, with Cabernet Sauvignon the majority. The finish is tannic and oaky, but mellows over time.
Clove and sage combine with brisk raspberry and warmer strawberry fruit for a lively wine. Flavors of black cherry, gingerbread cake, eucalyptus and lingering black spice comprise the palate, which is booming with mouth-watering acidity and strong tannins. Drink 2018 onward.
Clove and vanilla make for a serious, if not terribly refreshing, opening. There's nice grapefruit and pomelo fruit here and a medium, lemony finish that veers towards tart. Drink up.
Clove aromas are dominant. This oaky Garnacha feels sticky and syrupy, while the flavor profile is all candied black fruit and clove. The finish brings more of the same in this one-dimensional wine.
Clove, allspice and moist earth emerge first on the nose and are followed by blackberry and dried black fruit. There's a mature note behind all the dense concentration and the wine end with a blast of black cherry and lasting spice.
Clove, bay leaf and black cherry aromas burst from the glass, followed by flavors of dark cherry and cocoa. The tannins are supple, the mouthfeel ample, and the finish ends with a refreshing lift of acidity. Drink now–2018.
Clove, black-licorice gumdrops, some mint and a meaty quality mark the nose. It’s weighty, with raspberry fruit touched by the taste of tomato. It doesn’t offer a lot of finesse, and the oak is heavy on the end.
Clove, cardamom and cumin appear as pretty accents over a thick base of fruity cassis and blackberry. There are aromas of cigar and roasted chestnut in there as well and the wine offers dried herbs and chopped mint on the finish.
Clove, exotic spice, dark chocolate and cured meat come to the forefront of this rich, plush Barbera d'Alba. There's power and bright acidity here and the wine tastes rich, smooth and enduring on the palate. Pair it with cheese-stuffed ravioli.
Clove, leather and cherry aromas lead the way, followed by more of the same flavors on the palate, joined by hints of darker, plummier fruit. This full-bodied blend of 95% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre has some dusty tannins, but they're balanced by ample fruit, at least for the moment. Drink now–2025.
Clove, leather and pepper aromas and flavors give this Cabernet a masculine edge. Rich and complex, it also offers softer tannins and an integrated character that will allow for more delicate meat dish pairings. A lingering finish tops it off.
Clove, menthol, herb and spice give this fresh and distinctive red blend an indigenous edge. Toast, pepper, cinnamon spice and red cherry flavors are appealing and ageable. The Cabernet and Merlot add dimension.
Clove, mint, raw oak and black-fruit aromas are forward and scratchy. In the mouth, this is on the syrupy, rich side, while the flavor profile runs sweet, with hints of savory BBQ sauce and resin. A candied tasting finish is short and chunky in feel.
Clove, red cherry, eucalyptus and anise show on the classic nose of this single-vineyard bottling that is both minty and fruity. The palate is light and lithe but with grippy tension and loads of acidic energy, producing flavors from cherry and cranberry to bay leaf and eucalyptus.
Clove, star anise and deep strokes of red cherry show on the nose of this bottling from one of the estate's best blocks. The palate is redolent with bay leaf and eucalyptus, which give depth to the red-cherry, cranberry and tart pomegranate flavors.
Clover and apple aromas are basic but fresh. This is simple on the palate, with little to the mouthfeel. Vapid flavors of soda crackers, spent yeast and apple cider disappear on a quick finish.
Clover, white pepper, and a whiff of animal make this blend of 75% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah and 5% Grenache compelling now, but it's certainly a wine to cellar. The aromas move through a spectrum of flower, spice, fruit and animal. It already displays tremendous length and superb aging potential.
Cloves, butterscotch and slightly candied fruit aromas begin this playful Chardonnay from Jardin. On the palate, fresh, balanced flavors of fruit and citrus spice give the wine heft. Pair with grilled fish, scallops.
Cloves, pipe tobacco and a touch of pepper start this layered Pinotage from Stormhoek. The wine offers layers of cedar, tobacco, red berry and spice, and medium tannins and a smooth, balanced body seal the deal. An elegant Pinotage with exciting flavors.
Clovis Point's Black Label Chardonnay shares the ripe, voluminous feel of it's standard-label Chard, but offers a bit more freshness and structure. It's plump and full bodied, slick with honey and mango flavors, but cutting citrus acidity lends refreshment and balance. The moderately long finish is marked by lingering notes of nut, spice and toast.
Cloyingly sweet and jammy in pineapples, oranges, buttered toast and buttered popcorn. Made in the modern, popular style.
Clumsy and a bit chemical smelling, with a sticky, thick, candied palate housing bug juice berry flavors in front of a medicinal finish. Bulky, sweet and grabby red wine.
Clumsy out of the starting blocks, with creamy chocolate aromas, leather and leafiness. The palate is solid and concentrated, but short on elegance and depth of flavor. What's here is blocky and chunky, but also sort of green and flaky. Decent but with some issues, and just good on its best day. Imported by Carolina Wine Brands USA.
Clumsy, with outsized acidity and sweet, jammy raspberry, orange and cherry flavors. Tastes sweet and sour, like a Chinese pork sauce. Contains too many different varieties to list, but they include Muscat.
Clunky aromas of raisin and compost lack vitality and suggest overripeness. The mouthfeel is dense and tannic, while flavors of prune and overripe blueberry dominate.
Co-fermented Syrah, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel from the Mounts Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley were all picked the same day for this blend that's tight, sinewy and smoky in sanguine notes of baked plum, cranberry and baked bread. It comes together in a softly layered package, drinking well now.