Aromas of melon and toasted marshmallow precede a palate that is full bodied yet remarkably crisp. Flavors of melon and orange rind dominate through the slightly warm finish.
Aromas of melon, fennel, hay and tomato vine float out of the glass. The crisp, creamy palate offers white peach, lemon and Mediterranean herb alongside fresh acidity. A mineral note energizes the finish.
Aromas of melon, grapefruit and herbs lead to sweet tropical fruit flavors. The concentration isn't all there and the acid seems a bit wanting.
Aromas of melon, lime and stream water are just right. This has a crystal clear sense of freshness to the palate along with lime, peach and melon flavors that coast on fine acidity and finish in refreshing fashion.
Aromas of melon, mango and papaya are more yeasty than fresh and alert. This Trepat-based rosé feels foamy and soda-like. Flavors of citrus, melon and brown sugar finish slightly flat but fruity.
Aromas of melon, pear and candied apple lead to medium-bodied fleshy-feeling fruit flavors. It brings a pleasing sense of acidity—a delightful white.
Aromas of melon, starfruit and yellow apple lead to off-dry fruit flavors. It seems a bit sweet compared to the acid that's in the glass.
Aromas of melted butter, vanilla, stone fruit and baking spices lead to full-bodied peach flavors. The palate brings a creamy feel and lemony flavors on the finish.
Aromas of melted caramel, barrel spices, kiwi and pineapple rise up from this wine. The fruit flavors are lighter in style and lead to a warm finish with abundant fig notes that linger.
Aromas of menthol, blue flower and dark berry lift out of the glass. The tannic palate is still primary, offering tart sour cherry and star anise while a hint of dried sage closes the firm finish.
Aromas of menthol, dried flower, ripe berry, leather and savory herb lead the nose. The rich palate delivers crushed wild cherry, stewed plum, cinnamon, anise and a hint of vanilla alongside round tannins. Despite its big, friendly structure, it also boasts finesse. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of menthol, espresso and pressed rose take center stage. The medium-bodied palate shows spiced cranberry, pomegranate, roasted coffee bean, anise and a rather green note of powdered sage. Assertive close-grained tannins clench the finish. Give the tannins a few more years to unwind then drink.
Aromas of menthol, flint, crushed herb, leather and a balsamic note come together in the glass. Smooth and vibrant, the elegant palate delivers dried cherry, strawberry, star anise, pipe tobacco and mineral framed in polished tannins and bright acidity. Hold for even more complexity. Drink 2017–2027.
Aromas of menthol, mature dark-skinned berry and a whiff of cellar floor lead the way. On the palate, notes of coffee, white pepper and grilled herb accent fleshy wild cherry alongside solid, assertive tannins.
Aromas of menthol, pressed violet, espresso and a whiff of cellar floor lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, ripe plum, roasted coffee bean and vanilla. Assertive, drying tannins provide the framework. Drink soon before the fruit dries up further.
Aromas of menthol, red berry, coffee and blue flower waft from the glass along with whiffs of chopped aromatic herb. The aromas follow through to the velvety palate along with Marasca cherry, raspberry and licorice. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide a structured framework. Drink 2025–2033.
Aromas of menthol, ripe berry, dark spice and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the straightforward palate, star anise accents dried cherry while firm tannins provide support.
Aromas of menthol, star anise, clove and mature berry unfold in the glass. The firmly structured palate offers mature black cherry, star anise, espresso and a touch of exotic spice framed in taut, fine-grained tannins that lend elegance. Drink 2020–2035.
Aromas of menthol, stewed prune and a whiff of dark spice carry over to the evolved palate. The tannins are still firm but this has seen better days. Drink now.
Aromas of menthol, toast, espresso and mature black-skinned fruit come together on this accessible, full-bodied red. The ripe, chewy palate offers cherries marinated in spirits, blackberry jam, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside velvety tannins. You'll also note the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate.
Aromas of menthol, underbrush, scorched soil, licorice and ripe plum lead the nose. The structured palate delivers dried black cherry, aniseed, eucalyptus and ground pepper alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. It closes on a coffee note.
Aromas of mesquite, smoke, strawberry, freesia and herbs are followed by quite light fruit flavors. The concentration seems wanting.
Aromas of Middle Eastern spices, pencil eraser, oak grain, red plum and cherry make for a complete nose. This Tempranillo offers good body and a fair amount of oak on the palate along with spicy plum fruit that tastes more oaky and lactic on the finish.
Aromas of milk chocolate, cotton candy, bacon and sweet fruits are a lead into standard fare cherry and raspberry flavors. The feel is acidic but fresh, while the finish is thin but clean. Average wine.
Aromas of milk chocolate, herb, plum and cherry are followed by a palate full of cherry and chocolate flavors that persist on the finish. The tannins bring astringency that provides some distraction.
Aromas of mineral and jammy raspberry are attractive, yet the palate seems a bit metallic and clicky, with hard to penetrate flavors of rooty fruits, vanilla, coconut and cola. Opens with airing to display secondary berry fruit flavors in front of a tough, firm finish. Nice and ripe, and ready to drink.
Aromas of mineral, burnt toast, talc and spice are lighter in style. Flavors show elegance and delicacy, with citrus notes lingering on the finish.
Aromas of mineral, dried herb and plum are followed by fruit flavors that display depth and purity. It shows a lovely sense of elegance.
Aromas of mineral, exotic spice, leather and dried cherry lead to elegantly styled fruit, earth and game flavors. There's intrigue here but it doesn't all come together.
Aromas of mineral, flowers and freshly cut green apple are followed by a just off-dry, lightly spritzy palate full of stone-fruit flavors.
Aromas of mineral, smoke and floral black fruit are attractive, while the palate is focused and nimble, with red fruit, rhubarb and herbal notes. There's a wild, rather natural character to this wine along with a solid finish that brings herb flavors and medium tannic bite.
Aromas of minerally pencil lead and smoky plum and berry are positive albeit oaky. This is tight and grabby in feel, with firm tannins. Plum and berry flavors offer more than enough oaky support, while the finish is dominated by wood-spice notes and bulky tannins. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of minerals, citrus and tropical fruit are followed by a combination of fresh fruit, minerals and spice in this Cretan indigenous white. Unique and food friendly.
Aromas of mint and licorice complement raisin and jammy berry notes on this extracted Malbec that feels flabby around the edges despite a shot of core acidity. Flavors of prune and blueberry come with savory notes, while this lacks structure on the finish.
Aromas of mint and white pepper are followed by a blend of red berry, savory spice and smoke. The successful play between juicy fruit and oak makes for a layered and affordable everyday drinking choice.
Aromas of mint, berry syrup and dense, lemony oak lay a good foundation for the heavy black fruit that comes on the palate atop a plush carpet of toasty, fresh-grained wood. The finish is round, tasty and mouthfilling, while overall the wine seems to dance due to popping acidity. This is Carmenère with a vital streak.
Aromas of mint, cedar and spices are followed by medium-bodied vanilla and berry flavors in this approachable red from Greece. The dry-style red offers good acidity and balance and will pair well with dishes of the Mediterranean—think olives, grilled lamb, moussaka.
Aromas of mint, dark-skinned berry and roasted coffee beans lead the nose. The concentrated palate delivers baked plum, mocha, blackberry, chopped herbs and a confectionary note alongside fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of mint, talcum powder and dried cherry lead you to a delightful palate of red and black plums and black raspberries. Soft tannins and a persistent finish make this a notable Bulgarian Merlot.
Aromas of minty oak, pastry and jammy raspberry set up a palate that's racy, juicy and somewhat raw feeling, with plum and raspberry flavors. It's woody on the finish, with a spice flavor.
Aromas of mixed black fruits, spice and earth are deep, thorough and integrated. This blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Carmenère, 20% Malbec and 10% Cabernet Franc is tight and taught, with austerity and tannic grip. Flavors of toast, coffee and plum finish peppery, dry, tight and herbal, with a chocolaty note added in for good measure; drink through 2022.
Aromas of mocha and chocolate waft sweetly from this ripe, easy drinking Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors of fleshy black plum and cherry are soft and plump, but refreshing acidity kicks on the midpalate. The finish is swift, with soft, wispy tannins.
Aromas of mocha, coffee and berry fruit are regular but decent, while the palate is astringent but lively, with herbal red-fruit flavors and a touch of green. Finishes lemony, tangy and grabby, with weight but a slight stickiness.
Aromas of mocha, espresso, coconut, ripe black-skinned fruit and new wood lead the nose on this hearty blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. The thickly concentrated palate offers up dried black cherry, roasted coffee beans, toasted oak and vanilla alongside astringent tannins.
Aromas of mocha, rubber, smoky leather and berry fruit indicate good things to come, but in the mouth this wine fails to deliver equal to its price and the previous successes of Trapiche's single-vineyard Malbec project. Scouring acidity is the main culprit; the wine seems clipped, tartaric and angular, thus it's all superficial and not deep or rich enough to rate better.
Aromas of mocha, tire rubber, herbs and blue fruit aren't entirely in sync. They lead to a palate with soft, fleshy fruit flavors and a light structure trying to hold it all together.
Aromas of mocha, violet, espresso and leather lead the nose. The jammy palate offers juicy black cherry, licorice and grilled herb while a blast of orange zest lifts the finish. Fresh acidity and polished tannins provide balance.
Aromas of moist earth, black fruit, pencil lead and slightly overripe red apple are followed by a firm palate backed by lightly grippy tannins. This wine needs some food to keep them in check.
Aromas of moist earth, game and red berry lead the nose and carry over to the simple palate. Bright acidity and loose rather fleeting tannins provide the easy-drinking framework. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of moist forest floor, truffle, new leather, blue flower and a hint of plum come together in the glass. The fresh, enjoyable palate doles out juicy black cherry, licorice and a note of chopped mint while supple tannins and lively acidity give it an easy-drinking nature.
Aromas of moist soil, red berry and a whiff of blue flower come together on this simple red. The taut palate offers sour cherry, white pepper and a dash of clove set against a backbone of sharp acidity and dusty tannins.
Aromas of moist underbrush, saddle leather, dried herb, menthol and a whiff of game take shape in the glass. The firm palate offers raw sour cherry, cranberry, cinnamon and a hint of tobacco while close-grained tannins provide the framework and leave an astringent finish. Give the tannins a few more years to unwind then drink.
Aromas of moist underbrush, violet, red berry and a whiff of espresso lead the way. The simple, somewhat diluted palate delivers fresh strawberry and a note of white pepper with easygoing tannins and bright acidity.
Aromas of molasses, wood grain, blackberry and cassis are alluring. Bright, bold and energetic across the palate, this Crianza from a warm, dry year offers toasty oak, chocolate, spice, licorice and black-fruit flavors. As it moves towards the finish, toasty, blackened notes along with hints of mocha rise up. Drink from 2018–2028.
Aromas of mulberry, boysenberry, underbrush and dried lavendar lead to notes of black currant, dried herb and crushed granite on the palate. It possesses a smooth mouthfeel with succulent glycerol, balancing acidity and lightly grainy tannins. Moderate in length, with savory and mineral qualities lingering, this will evolve over the next 2–3 years and may hold longer.
Aromas of mulberry, savory herb, green tea, vanilla and spice lead to medium-bodied, easy-drinking cherry flavors.
Aromas of mulled black fruits, vanilla, tobacco, orange peel and earth are a touch jumbled, but compartmentalized—this smells nice. Wiry and fresh in feel, but with a slightly hollow midsection, this tastes peppery, oaky and like cherry and black plum. A toasty finish with snappy acidity solidifies this medium-weight La Mancha Tempranillo. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of mushroom and cedar are overpowered by cherry in the form of cough drops and Kool-Aid. Notes of sour cherry and unsweetened cranberry juice are set against piercing acidity. The flavors fall flat on the finish as the acidity rides on.
Aromas of mushroom, dirty water and mud puddle are far from inviting. Herbal, briny flavors of mushroom, salt and bitterness come with almost no fruit.
Aromas of nail varnish, overripe black-skinned fruit and prune lead the nose. The evolved palate offers dried black cherry, raisin, clove and a confectionary note alongside fleeting tannins. Drink now.
Aromas of nearly overripe black fruit mingle with accents of exotic spice. The palate delivers a flavor reminiscent of raspberries soaked in spirit, along with hints of cinnamon and white pepper. This offers lovely fruit, but it's a bit shy on length.
Aromas of Nestea ice tea and slightly past-their-prime flowers are followed by medium-sweet fruit flavors that need more acid to stand them up. It doesn't all come together.
Aromas of nettle and cactus pad are briny and typical of Leyda SB. This is full in body for Sauvignon Blanc, but balanced by needle-like acidity. Flavors follow the nose, meaning nettle, briny citrus and bell pepper. A long finish is sharp but balanced.
Aromas of nettle, citrus fruits and stream water set up a minerally palate with some plumpness. Moderately intense stone fruit and citrus flavors finish melony.
Aromas of nettle, gooseberry, grapefruit and mineral are sharp, distinct and varietally appropriate, while the wet, short palate is hollow but edged by green apple, gooseberry and other green fruit flavors. Zesty on the finish, but a little pithy. Drink right away.
Aromas of new leather and menthol segue into the brooding palate along with dried cherry and a note of medicinal herb. It's tightly tannic, with a lean astringent finish.
Aromas of new leather, iris, ripe berry, baking spice and a balsamic note of menthol come together on this. On the palate, notes of clove and star anise accent a core of ripe Marasca cherry and crushed raspberry. Fine-grained tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of new leather, ripe dark berry, vineyard dust and a whiff of smoky flint waft out of the glass along with floral and balsamic notes. The full-bodied palate shows great energy and intensity, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, ripe cranberry, white pepper and clove framed in youthfully assertive, refined tannins and bright acidity. A mineral note wraps up the lingering finish. With time, this will develop even greater complexity. Drink 2023–2053.
Aromas of new leather, truffle, spiced plum and a whiff of raisin come together on this mature red. The hearty palate is also refined, offering prune, dried black cherry, chewing tobacco, coffee and licorice alongside smooth, velvety tannins. Drink through 2024.
Aromas of new oak, coconut, espresso and chopped herb lead the nose. On the palate, bracing tannins support dried red berry, raw cherry and a confectionary note. A lack of fruit richness gives it an astringent finish.
Aromas of new wood, coconut and roasted coffee beans lead the nose of this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The bracing palate offers oak extract, prune, pomegranate, powdered sage and espresso alongside assertive, astringent tannins that dry out the finish. It lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the oak.
Aromas of nut and yellow apple skin follow over to the lean palate along with brisk acidity. It's vigorous, with steely bubbles.
Aromas of nut, apple skin, pear and chopped sage lead the nose while the fresh, inviting palate shows citrus zest, yellow apple and crystallized ginger. A blast of tangerine and a mineral note back up the finish.
Aromas of nutmeg, cedar and mushroom lead this spicy red from Crete. On the palate, currants, vanilla and cinnamon are rich but balanced with a good acidity. Great with cheeses, duck.
Aromas of oak and orange peel include a strong whiff of clove. This is creamy and resiny in feel, while oaky flavors—clove in particular—sit on top of red-fruit notes. Dry barrel-related flavors are hot on the finish.
Aromas of oak and sawdust come with notes of plum and vanilla. The palate shows plum and black cherry along with evident oak, espresso and toasted sensations.
Aromas of oak extract, menthol and game emerge in the glass. The firm palate offers toasted oak, vanilla and powdered sage but it lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the dominant wood sensations. Bracing tannins give it an astringent finish.
Aromas of oak extract, resin, toast and prune lead the nose. The extracted palate offers dried black cherry, baked plum, coconut and vanilla alongside abrasive tannins that leave a drying finish.
Aromas of oak extract, toast, red berry and espresso wrap around this structured wine. The firm palate offers up sour cherry, ground pepper and licorice alongside assertive, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Aromas of oak take the forefront, with ripe plum, roasted coffee bean, smoke and meat juices in the background. The palate offers dark berry layered with oak sensations alongside astringent wood tannins. It has an excruciatingly dry finish. Superior Wines, Siema.
Aromas of oak, asphalt, and ripe black fruits make for a lusty, modern nose. The feel is jammy and thick. Flavors of blackberry, chocolate and mocha give way to a strong oak component. A dense finish runs minty and chocolaty, with an emphasis on syrupy richness. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of oak, black plum, coconut and roasted coffee beans lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The big, chewy palate offers black cherry, blackberry jam, vanilla and coffee framed in round tannins. A licorice note backs up the finish.
Aromas of oak, chocolate, nutmeg and spiced plum lead the nose of this robust wine. The ripe palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, tobacco and baking spice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of oak, coconut and baked plum lead the way. The extracted palate offers stewed plum, steeped cherry, oak extract and dark spices alongside chewy tannins.
Aromas of oak, coconut, blue flower and a whiff of exotic spice lead the nose. The linear palate is on the lean side, offering tart red cherry, raspberry, anise and oak-driven spice alongside fine-grained tannins and firm acidity.
Aromas of oak, coconut, burned rubber and scorched earth lead the nose. The rather lean palate offers vanilla, licorice and a confectionary note while astringent tannins dry out the finish.
Aromas of oak, coconut, vanilla, espresso and charred earth come together on this structured wine. The aromas carry over to the full-bodied palate along with prune, raisin and a confectionary note. Bracing tannins clench the finish. Give the tannins a few more years to unfurl then drink to catch what remains of the fruit.
Aromas of oak, coffee, rose, chopped mint and licorice take shape in the glass while the tight palate offers toast, espresso, raspberry jam and a confectionary note. Firm tannins grip the finish.
Aromas of oak, dill and citrus lead the way. On the medium-bodied palate, butterscotch and other oak-driven spice sensations dominate candied nectarine zest and yellow apple.
Aromas of oak, dill, lemon drop and mature apple lead the nose. The palate offers up toasted notes, vanilla, butterscotch, candied ginger, yellow apple and mineral alongside fresh acidity.
Aromas of oak, espresso, earth and leather characterize this blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate shows toasted oak, black pepper and black cherry notes but the fruit is starting to fade. Drink soon.
Aromas of oak, espresso, steeped plum and cracked pepper lead the nose on this blend of 70% Negroamaro, 20% Montepulciano and 10% Malvasia Nera. The palate offers raspberry jam, clove, allspice and roasted coffee bean alongside assertive but fine-grained tannins. It ends on a note of bitter prune. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of oak, espresso, toast, vanilla and chocolate carry over to the palate, along with licorice and coffee notes. It has structure but not quite enough richness to support the evident oak sensations.
Aromas of oak, leather, plum, vanilla and espresso unfold in the glass. The concentrated palate doles out dried black cherry, blackberry jam, oak-driven spice and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannin. This has weight and a velvety texture but it isn't overly vibrant, so drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of oak, licorice, ripe black plum, menthol and toasted hazelnut emerge on this. The structured but already accessible palate offers ripe black cherry, fleshy raspberry, vanilla, clove and a note of pipe tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, close-grained tannins. Drink from 2017 through 2022.
Aromas of oak, menthol and vanilla emerge. The dense palate offers black pepper, licorice and a suggestion of dried black cherry alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish. Showing the heat of the vintage, the fruit is already drying up.
Aromas of oak, mint and cola accent earthy black-fruit scents in front of a palate that's tannic and raw but firm and structured. Berry and salty, oaky flavors finish with grabby, drying tannins and peppery spice.
Aromas of oak, roasted coffee bean, camphor and grilled porcini emerge in the glass. The firm palate shows tart sour cherry, dried herb, coconut and white pepper alongside assertive, rather astringent tannins.
Aromas of oak, stewed prune, raisin and a balsamic note lead the nose. The mature straightforward palate offers raspberry jam, black cherry extract and anise alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of oak, toast and a whiff of mature yellow apple skin lead the nose. The aromas carry over to the subdued palate along with a note of candied nectarine zest. A note of bitter walnut marks the close.
Aromas of oak, toast and espresso dominate the nose. It's lean, with raw red berry, toast, and coffee alongside dry, angular tannins but not much fruit richness.
Aromas of oak, toast, coconut and dark berry lead the nose and carry over to the bracing palate along with white pepper and oak-driven spice. Firm, extremely astringent tannins give this a bracing finish. Drink after 2018.
Aromas of oak, toast, espresso and a whiff of violet come together. The firmly structured palate offers dried black cherry, orange zest and licorice alongside bracing tannins.
Aromas of oak, toast, espresso and coconut carry over to palate along with coffee, a hint of baked plum and a confectionary note. Drying tannins leave an astringent finish.
Aromas of oak, toast, espresso, peppermint and a whiff of blue flower lead the nose. The firm palate offers dark cherry, cake spice, grilled herb and anise alongside tightly wound, assertive tannins and bright acidity.
Aromas of oak, toast, espresso, vanilla and coconut carry over to the palate along with dark berry flavors and milk chocolate. It closes on a sweet, almost sugary note but it lacks energy and intensity.
Aromas of oak, toast, mature plum, blue flower and spice lead the nose. The palate offers black cherry, vanilla, toasted oak and mocha alongside extremely astringent tannins that leave a tongue-drying finish.
Aromas of oak, toast, underbrush and ripe berry lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry and black pepper alongside dusty, drying tannins. The fruit is drying up quickly and there's the warmth of alcohol on the finish.
Aromas of oak, underbrush and a whiff of wet stone lift out of the glass. The aromas carry over to the lean palate along with ripe yellow-apple skin, a hint of citrus zest and a saline note. It closes on a bitter nutty note.
Aromas of oak, vanilla, espresso and mature black plum carry over to the palate along with notes of prune, grilled herb and clove. The palate is framed by astringent, woody tannins that generate a fleeting, drying finish.
Aromas of oak, woodshop, raisin and exotic spice carry over to the robust concentrated palate along with fig, prune and a hint of vanilla. The heat of evident alcohol throws it off balance while close-grained tannins give it an astringent finish.
Aromas of ocean breeze and white clover are raw but good. This feels round, pulpy and citrusy, with green slightly bitter flavors of citrus, honey and brine. Acidity plays a big role in keeping this afloat. Drink immediately.
Aromas of oily petrol and stone fruits lead to a round palate. This offers mild papaya and melony flavors in front of a leesy-tasting finish that's solid in feel.
Aromas of olive, green herbs, mixed spices and black plum set up a full, grabby palate. Flavors of generic black fruits, bitter herbs and eucalyptus finish minty and leafy, with weight and cushion.
Aromas of olive, mushroom and berry fruits are lightly herbal. This Cabernet feels scratchy, abrupt and edgy, while herbal raspberry and plum flavors finish solid and with a slight note of pickle.
Aromas of orange and grapefruit are clean and easy. This feels citrusy but that's about it. Standard orange and lemon-lime flavors finish with juicy snap. Drink this rudimentary Godello as soon as possible.
Aromas of orange and tangerine are oily on the nose. Melon, papaya and almond-skin flavors end with creamy lees notes that give way to bitterness on a dilute finish.
Aromas of orange blossom and jasmine intoxicate on the entry of this delightful wine, which combines in complex ways to offer savory fennel with a creaminess to the texture. That complexity continues through the finish, which ends long and lean.
Aromas of orange blossom and lemon pith prime the palate for flavors of pink grapefruit, orange zest, lemon curd and white flowers. This wine is refreshing from start to finish.
Aromas of orange blossom and pineapple juice are not substantial. In the mouth, this is chunky and plump, with oily peach and nectarine flavors mixed with some green bean. A heavy finish with little spine provides minimal cut and freshness.
Aromas of orange blossom and wild berry lead the way. The bright simple palate is on the slender side, offering suggestions of strawberry and cherry alongside vibrant acidity.
Aromas of orange blossom, clover and honey are true to sun-dried Moscatel grapes. This feels thick and chunky on the palate, but also a bit soft and flat. Flavors of honey and brown sugar are creamy, with modest acidic cut. A slightly cloying finish continues that theme.
Aromas of orange blossom, lychee and lemon peel are potent and oily. In the mouth, this is thick for Torrontés, with distinct oiliness. Flavors of tropical fruits and lychee are pithy and full of pyrazines.
Aromas of orange blossoms, scratched apple skins, lemon-lime soda and jasmine waft off of this bottling. The texture is quite grippy, with tactile acidity and a dynamic mouthfeel presenting lime sorbet and sugared apple flavors.
Aromas of orange bread, jasmine and poached Asian pear cling to a steely edge on the nose of this sharp and zesty bottling. Mouthwateringly ripe flavors of yellow pear, toasted almond, cashew and sea salt play on the palate.
Aromas of orange peel and citrus pulp are oily but not oaky. This is chunky and seems to be starting to fade. Salty citrus flavors are mild, while controlled saltiness persists on the finish. Drink now.
Aromas of orange peel and juniper berry go face-to-face with plum, berry and baking spice scents. This is a choppy, tannic, raw-feeling wine with cool flavors of herbal berry and eucalyptus. A drawing, high-acid, hard-tannin finish closes out this rugged Malbec.
Aromas of orange peel and orange essence are oily and bring softer notes of melon, apple and tropical fruits. This is bright but basic on the tongue, with cutting acidity. Tropical flavors of green melon and mango are ratcheted by citric acidity, while the finish is citrusy and pithy.
Aromas of orange peel, blue fruit, flowers and dried herbs are appealing and direct. The flavors and feel are elegant, showing freshness and acidity.
Aromas of orange peel, flowers, blue fruit and smoked meat are followed by light, spritely fruit flavors. The tannins bring some grip.
Aromas of orange peel, ripe stone fruit and a leesy whiff of yeast lead the nose. Refermented in the bottle, the semisparkling palate offers yellow apple, citrus and a drop of acacia honey alongside bright acidity. It finishes dry and crisp.
Aromas of orange pulp and peel are hanging in there. This feels both oily and citric, while sour-leaning citrus flavors are a bit salty. On the finish, this feels plump and holds onto its citrusy essence. Drink immediately.
Aromas of orange zest, apple cider and yeast come in front of a plump, slightly wayward palate with citric acidity. Generic citrus flavors finish lemony but with acidic scour.
Aromas of orange, cantaloupe and creamy yeast don't overreach. This bright, forward, lively Cava tastes of orange, nectarine and cantaloupe. On the finish, a touch of yeasty richness lends weight.
Aromas of orange, pineapple and guava are ripe but bright on the nose of this fresh white. Flavors of green plum and apple skin lend verve to the medium-weight mouthfeel, in addition to cleansing acidity that enlivens the finish. Drink now.
Aromas of orange, scallion and match stick are a bit sulfuric. This feels simple, lemony and juicy, while monotone white pineapple and lemon-lime flavors finish zesty and cleansing.
Aromas of orchard fruit, chopped herb and a whiff of toasted nut emerge on this medium-bodied white. On the bright palate, bitter almond adds interest to Bartlett pear and lemon zest.
Aromas of orchard fruit, citrus and nuts come together on this. The vibrant palate offers lemon zest, Kaiser pear and a hint of stony mineral accompanied by bracing acidity.
Aromas of orchard fruit, dried herb and toasted bread crust lead the nose. The creamy palate offers mature apple, white peach, nectarine and mineral alongside an elegant perlage that carries through to the bone-dry yet succulent finish.
Aromas of orchard fruit, nut and a light whiff of toast lift from the glass. The medium-bodied, straightforward palate offers pear, apple and a note of lemon drop. Vibrant acidity gives it a clean finish.
Aromas of overripe black fruit, leafy forest floor and horse sweat lead the nose. The palate is rather muddled, offering steeped plum, anisette and a leathery note alongside bracing tannins.
Aromas of overripe black plum and black cherry aromas accompany notes of leather, espresso, and powdered sage. The one-dimensional palate offers hints of baked plum alongside evolved, fleeting tannins but the fruit is drying up fast.
Aromas of overripe cherry, vanilla extract, toast and espresso continue to the palate, along with dark chocolate and oak. The palate has rough, astringent wood tannins that gives this a bitter, drying close.
Aromas of overripe peach pit and oily tropical fruits are flat and low on fun. This is acidic but lacking in body and support. Sour plum and lemon flavors lead to a tangy finish.
Aromas of overripe red apple, cranberry, raspberry and white pepper predominate, along with light oxidative notes. The jammy red fruit and apple flavors are luscious and sweet, bringing a pleasing sense of texture along with a lingering finish.
Aromas of overripe slightly turned apple and grape skin are followed by dry citrus and guava flavors. It seems quite disjointed.
Aromas of overripe, slightly bruised red apple, ale and apple skin are at the fore. It brings a spritz to the off-dry apple-juice flavors, seeming to have not fully settled into the glass.
Aromas of paint and vanilla come with stalky fragrances that are low on freshness and fruit. The palate is weighty, while the flavor profile is muddled and briny.
Aromas of papaya and melon are hit with a slight sulfuric note. This feels plump, with mild citric acidity. Flavors of grapefruit, lime and grass are green and bright, but turn pithy on the finish.
Aromas of passion fruit and banana lead the nose. The simple palate offers tropical fruit and unripe apple alongside racy acidity.
Aromas of passion fruit, banana and a hint of Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this medium-bodied white. The soft, round palate offers yellow peach and ripe pear alongside just enough fresh acidity.
Aromas of passion fruit, dried apricot, dill and candied nectarine zest lead the nose on this concentrated dessert wine. On the palate, bright acidity adds freshness to the candied lemon, pastry and yellow peach flavors.
Aromas of passion fruit, grapefruit, lime and bell pepper are textbook for the region. This feels fresh as a whistle, with pyrazine-led bell pepper, green bean and lime flavors. Additional notes of bell pepper, with hints of white pepper drive the finish on this crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc.
Aromas of passion fruit, hay and a vegetal note lead the nose while the bright fresh palate doles provides juicy nectarine, creamy peach and pear. A hint of mineral and white almond close the lingering finish.
Aromas of passion fruit, tangerine, bell pepper and grass lead to a plump palate with soft acids. Flavors of pithy, slightly bitter green fruits, bell pepper and passion fruit end in a modest finish that rapidly loses steam.
Aromas of pastry, cake spice and a whiff of chopped mint take center stage. The rich palate offers ripe strawberry, candied cherry, anise and bitter almond alongside invigorating bubbles.
Aromas of peach and a whiff of aromatic herb lead the nose while the bright palate offers stone fruit and green apple. Lively acidity gives it a clean, refreshing finish.
Aromas of peach and apple lead the nose on this easy-drinking white. The palate is rather lean but still manages to deliver flavors that recall green pear and unripe stone fruit alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of peach and freshly cut apple peel turn into rounder notes of ripe, yellow plum on the palate. Citrus freshness brightens and highlights the fruit that finishes dry. The citric linearity lingers and finishes with layered apple notes.
Aromas of peach and lemon peel prime the palate for flavors of peach, apricot, and lemon curd. It's well balanced, with flavors of ripe stone fruit and citrus that wash across the palate and leave a creamy texture in their wake.
Aromas of peach and lime are followed by a sleek, crisp, off-dry palate with a long, lemony finish. A light spritz perks it up nicely.
Aromas of peach and mango waft from the glass. This is a rich wine, although dry, with a smooth, almost oily texture. Its ripe fruit is intense, with the yellow fruit flavors dominating acidity and pepper. It could age for several years.
Aromas of peach blossom and lemon come together on this bright white. On the succulent palate, a ginger note adds interest to nectarine zest and green apple, while a hint of almond marks the close.
Aromas of peach blossom and mature Bartlett pear lead the nose on this pretty wine. The crisp palate offers green apple and juicy nectarine alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of peach blossom, citrus and a yeasty note of fresh biscuits lead the nose on this 100% Chardonnay. The palate offers walnut husk, lemon zest and a confectionary note alongside sharp acidity.
Aromas of peach blossom, red berry and sunbaked earth waft out of the glass. The luminous fruity palate doles out juicy raspberry, red cherry and a hint of Mediterranean herb while a white almond note gives it a pleasantly bitter close.
Aromas of peach pit are neutral except for some oily notes. This multigrape blend feels plump, oily and propped up by solid acidity. Pithy flavors of grapefruit and melon are slightly bitter on the finish.
Aromas of peach pit, apricot and melon are basic but a little mealy. A chunky palate seems soft due to waning acidity. Flavors of melon and papaya finish slightly flat and bitter. Drink immediately.
Aromas of peach pit, dried almond skins and white pineapple are on the raw side, while the palate on this Viognier-heavy blend is waxy yet citric. Flavors of white grapefruit and lemon are pithy, and finish with bitter almond flavors.
Aromas of peach, green apple and freesia yield to flavors of apricot, peach, orange zest and rose petal. Light in the mouth, with touches of smooth viscosity, the finish is bright but pleasantly subdued.
Aromas of peach, herb and flowers are followed by off-dry lightly spritzy lime and stone-fruit flavors. It lacks a sense of cohesion.
Aromas of peach, lime and mineral make a first-rate initial impression, and are then followed by zesty citrus flavors that enhance rather than overpower the briny minerality. It's 13% alcohol, but maintains a wonderful balance of alcohol, acid and just a hint of sugar. Long and mouthwatering on the finish.
Aromas of peach, mineral, candle wax and fennel lead to medium-bodied, textured flavors. There's a pleasing sense of tension between the fruit and acid.
Aromas of peach, nectarine and pear lead to dry, fleshy stone-fruit flavors that decline toward the finish.
Aromas of peach, red apple skins and cantaloupe come with powdery, soapy notes. This feels fresh, with vivid flavors of stone fruits and peach pit. A steady, clean finish renders this proper for immediate consumption.
Aromas of pear and anise pace the nose of this medium-bodied wine. It's a simple, fruit-cocktail-like sipper, with a quick, easy finish and a reasonable price tag. Drink now.
Aromas of pear and cured meat are oxidized but also a touch harsh. This Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo blend weighs in as heavy and chunky. Flavors of grape skins, bitter melon and honey lose steam on a spent, oxidized finish. While this still has some good qualities, its best days have passed.
Aromas of pear and toast are followed by apple pie and spice flavors that show a pleasing mixture of fruit and barrel. It delivers a lot of wine for the money.
Aromas of pear and tropical fruit lead to off-dry fruit flavors with a zing of acid that draws out the finish. It's perfect for a warm afternoon.
Aromas of pear and tropical fruit precede lighter-styled flavors that taper toward the finish.
Aromas of pear and yellow apple are at the fore. It drinks off dry with full feel. There's enjoyment to be had but the varietal is hard to discern.
Aromas of pear, apple, and whiffs of tropical fruit are followed by a tart lively palate full of rounded fruit flavors. It shows a light spritz and a lot of crispness.
Aromas of pear, apricot and stemmy herbs lead to full-feeling pear and stone -ruit flavors that pull up short on the back nine, seeming a bit underripe.
Aromas of pear, brioche and citrus peel are forward. The palate brings lively citrus and spice flavors that linger.
Aromas of pear, cantaloupe and apple are followed by broad, dry fruit flavors, with a spritzy finish. There's not much complexity, but the wine goes down easy and is very varietal.
Aromas of pear, citrus and almond should be familiar to anyone who knows Chilean Chardonnay, but to call this wine elevated or beyond regular would be a stretch. The palate is slightly lemony and green, and the finish has a persistent tang. Seems like basic Casablanca Chard to us.
Aromas of pear, corn and sweat are difficult. In the mouth this wine is extra tight and acidic, then chalky on the back palate. Short, sour flavors of gooseberry end quickly on a zingy finish.
Aromas of pear, Gala apple, nectarine, lemon spritz and wet dough show on the yeasty nose of this bottling. Creamy bubbles arise on the zippy sip, with flavors of dough and yellow-apple skins proving quite tart.
Aromas of pear, honeysuckle, cream and peach rise up from the glass. This is lightly creamy in feel, with elegantly styled but well-balanced fruit flavors that linger.
Aromas of pear, lees and tropical fruit lead to a rich flavorful palate, absolutely loaded with tropical-fruit flavors that show a delightful sense of balance. The oak usage (25% new French) is judicious, allowing the fruit to shine.
Aromas of pear, melted butter and toasty spice lead to a lightly creamy, elegantly styled palate with lingering stone-fruit flavors. It seems faint but what's there shows a fine sense of balance.
Aromas of pear, pressed white flower, exotic fruit and hints of toasted oak lead the nose. The round palate offers nectarine zest, apricot, dried herb and vanilla alongside soft but refreshing acidity.
Aromas of pear, red apple and pineapple lead to sweet green and red apple flavors with a tart finish.
Aromas of pear, Spanish broom, flint and Mediterranean herb emerge in the glass. The juicy, medium-bodied palate offers ripe apple, peach and lime alongside fresh acidity and a mineral vein. A hazelnut note marks the close.
Aromas of pear, stone fruit and lees lead to peach and floral flavors. The concentration is light and elegant.
Aromas of pear, yellow apples and pineapple carry over to the palate along with a banana note. The juicy palate is balanced by bright acidity, making this perfect for everyday fare from lightly seasoned fish to pasta topped with tomato sauce.
Aromas of pencil eraser, green herbs and briary berry fruits are oaky and pack some punch with this full, blocky wine. Flavors of blackberry are woody and slightly green, while the finish is peppery in flavor, spicy and shows some heat.
Aromas of pencil lead and lemony oak vie with jammy, raisiny scents. This is a live-wire wine with energy flowing across a jumpy palate. Ripe cassis and blackberry flavors show a licorice note, while the finish is concentrated at first before breaking up and showing some heat. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of pencil lead, rubber and spice accent distant red fruit notes. The palate is none too deep, with dilution and bracing acidity. Tastes perky and lightly leafy, with cherry, raspberry, dry spice and finally buttery oak. Whispy but hollow for an '06 reserva.
Aromas of pencil shavings, black currant and cedar lead the nose of this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The ripe, forward palate delivers dried cherries, green bell pepper and clove alongside assertive, grippy tannins. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of pencil shavings, marzipan and jammy berry are sweet and slightly candied. Flavors of Bing cherry, raisin, licorice and citrus peel are forward and tight, while the finish is long and flavorful, with some acidic tang. Lively despite a mild raisiny quality. Drink now through 2013.
Aromas of peppery spices, hay and apple lead to dry, sleek flavors, high-wire acid and a citrus-rind-filled finish. Try it with shellfish.
Aromas of perfumed berry, mint baking spice, toast and espresso waft out of the glass. The palate is tight and rather primary at the moment, showing raw black cherry, raspberry, clove and toasted notes. It's still young but balanced, with fresh acidity and firm, fine–grained tannins. Drink 2016–2022.
Aromas of perfumed berry, mint, baking spice and a whiff of oak emerge on this structured wine. The firm palate offers wild red cherry, crushed raspberry, mint, grilled sage and a touch of oak-driven spice alongside bracing tannins and nervous acidity. Give it time to soften and fully develop. Drink 2019–2031.
Aromas of perfumed berry, scorched earth, grilled herb and dried rose petal waft out of the glass. The chewy palate doles out ripe black cherry, licorice, ground pepper and clove alongside a solid backbone of velvety tannins. Tobacco and mocha notes close the finish. American Northwest Distributors Inc. and Vintage '59 Imports.
Aromas of perfumed berry, scorched earth, rose and cake spices lead the nose. The structured palate offers wild cherry, crushed strawberry, white pepper, clove and aromatic herbs alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and lively acidity. It's almost accessible but will be even better in a year or two. Drink after 2018.
Aromas of perfumed berry, violet, leather, pipe tobacco and baking spice take shape in the glass. The smooth, structured palate delivers layers of ripe black cherry, juicy raspberry, clove, white pepper and mineral alongside firm, fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of perfumed wild berry, red rose petal, truffle, mint, leather and a balsamic note all waft from the glass. The polished, structured palate delivers juicy red cherry, white pepper, cinnamon-spice and savory herb alongside firm but ripe tannins. Drink through 2024.
Aromas of petroleum jelly, melon and flowers lead to pear flavors with a rounded feel that taper toward the finish. Pair it with shrimp ceviche.
Aromas of pickled lime and not much else define the nose on this medium-bodied brut. Flavors of lettuce and lime are dry, while this remains dry and fresh on a clean, simple finish.
Aromas of pie crust and toast take the lead, followed by touches of white currant, pear and apple. The palate tastes a touch sweet and feels succulent.
Aromas of pinched rubber and stems precede a light-bodied palate with flavors of leafy red fruits, butter and caramel. Oak flavors and mild acidity run the finish.
Aromas of pine forest, wild berry, chopped herb, brown spice and a toasted note lead the nose. The ripe palate shows dried cherry, sage, anise and coffee bean alongside a backbone of assertive tannins that grip the somewhat abrupt finish.
Aromas of pineapple, grapefruit, juniper berry and dust are slightly sharp but do manage to fold together into a solid whole. The palate is correct, with green-leaning, semiherbal flavors of melon, papaya and mango. A good to above-average Albariño that should be drunk right away.
Aromas of pineapple, lemon and stone fruits lead into a palate that is ripe and round, with apple butter and pear flavors. The finish is dry and fairly simple, with banana-like richness and tropical fruit notes, but also some late bitterness. Just two things hold it back: The texture is a bit flat, and the acidity could use a jolt.
Aromas of pineapple, orange and lemon lead this fruity and fun Chardonnay from Greece. Balanced fresh fruit flavors are lifted by a good acidity and spice. Easy to love and offering an international style, this is a white wine for the weekday as well as weekend.
Aromas of pineapple, peach and a touch of vanilla lead the way. The nervy palate offers grapefruit, nectarine and a mineral note further brightened by racy acidity.
Aromas of pineapple, ripe melon and lemon create a balanced bouquet, while the citrus and banana on the palate make for a ripe and ready offering. The finish is long, clean and fresh, and the mouthfeel is good and lean, and overall quite crisp. Standard fare, but a good example of Chardonnay.
Aromas of pineapple, white fruit and apple start this likeable white from Santorini. Citrus, tropical fruit and apple flavors on the palate are fuller bodied but still lively. A solid white for everyday enjoyment.
Aromas of pineapple, white peach and lemon blossom invite you in for a mouthful of peach and green-apple flavors. There's nice weight on the palate and pleasant minerality before the crisp finish.
Aromas of pink grapefruit and passion fruit are more in the Sauvignon Blanc field than your typical Chardonnay. Citric and bouncy on the palate, this tastes of tart grapefruit, orange peel and salt, and it stays that way through the finish.
Aromas of pink grapefruit, candied red cherry and cinnamon carry on to the palate. Zesty acidity brightens the palate alongside vigorous bubbles.
Aromas of pink grapefruit, grass and coriander seed open the palate of this wine. Passion fruit, apricot, green apple and freshly chopped parsley mark the palate, with a touch of iodine on the finish.
Aromas of pink peppercorn, dried herbs, chocolate and jalapeño are light and subtle on this 100% varietal wine. It's soft and pure in feel, tapering toward the finish.
Aromas of pipe tobacco, mature dark-skinned fruit, leather and cake spice meld together on this smooth structured red. The chewy, full-bodied palate delivers mature plum, black cherry marinated in spirits, mocha and cinnamon alongside velvety tannins. Drink 2017 through 2026.
Aromas of pithy citrus and pineapple are decent but unrefined, while flavors of tangerine and pineapple are tropical, zesty and what they are. This is nothing more than a fresh, simple, citrusy white to sip on the patio. Anything beyond that would be stretching it.
Aromas of plastic and weedy berry fruits are not a draw. This feels dilute and pulling. Weedy, raw, tart red-berry flavors finish with green notes of mint and leafy herbs.
Aromas of plum and blue fruit are accented by high-toned spices and milk chocolate. Flavors are soft, palate coating and poised, with blue-fruit flavors lingering on the finish. It doesn't necessarily taste like Merlot but still brings plenty of appeal.
Aromas of plum and wood spice lead to plentiful blue-fruit flavors that show a fine sense of purity. The tannins provide a dry, lightly astringent squeeze.
Aromas of plum cake, spicy blueberry and cocoa unfold in the glass of this structured wine. The palate delivers black cherry, vanilla, graphite, ground black pepper and well-integrated oak alongside assertive but refined tannins. It has muscle but also shows elegance and restraint. Drink 2015–2025.
Aromas of plum jam, blackberry extract and dark baking spice lead the nose. The smooth dense palate tastes of dried black cherry, ground pepper, licorice and tobacco framed in velvety tannins. Fresh acidity lifts the rich flavors while notes of raisin and exotic spice close the firm finish.
Aromas of plum, black berry, orange peel and a hint of eucalyptus waft over a thick layer of juicy, dark cherry accented with sweet baking spices. It's straightforward, round, ripe and ready. Enjoy this soon.
Aromas of plum, black cherry and mulberry are enhanced by crushed graphite, clove dust, scarlet rose petals and menthol on the nose of this bottling. The palate reveals a stunning amount of depth, with eucalyptus leaf, white sage, violet petals, rose hips and pine needles giving depth to the rich black-plum fruit.
Aromas of plum, black currant and blackberry are heightened by dried cranberry, with hints of bell pepper and white pepper. Firm tannins on the palate are balanced by the acidity, with brambly flavors of blackberry and plenty of pepper. The tannins linger through the finish, with note of white pepper and bramble.
Aromas of plum, blackberry, violet and exotic spice jump out of the glass. The bright, polished palate offers black cherry, raspberry jam and black pepper alongside fresh acidity. It's made for immediate drinking pleasure so enjoy soon.
Aromas of plum, blue fruit, cocoa and herbs lead to lead to palate-coating, textured fruit flavors supported by grainy tannins. It doesn't always seem entirely varietal but still delivers a lot of enjoyment.
Aromas of plum, blueberry, vanilla and spice are followed by plush, ample fruit flavors. It brings a lot of appeal, with baking-spice flavors lingering on the finish.
Aromas of plum, chocolate, wood spice and smoke lead to sweet, medium-bodied fruit flavors. The tannins come off as somewhat dry.
Aromas of plum, clove, coffee and wood spice lead to plush plump fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze.
Aromas of plum, cranberry, wood spice and herb are followed by concentrated red and black-fruit flavors. A silky mouthfeel and firm tannins only add to the enjoyment.
Aromas of plum, dark berry, iris, tobacco and a whiff of menthol emerge in the glass. The palate is a bit more subdued than the nose, offering dried black cherry, mint, dark spice and a hint of coffee. Soft, smooth tannins give it polish and an easy-drinking vibe.
Aromas of plum, espresso and coffee carry over to the one-dimensional palate alongside mature black cherry and drying tannins. It's a bit forward so drink this over the next few years.
Aromas of plum, herbs and confection come along with barnyard notes that jut out. The fruit flavors are dry and chalky with medicinal notes taking over. Drink now.
Aromas of plum, savory herb, leather and hint of baking spice lead the nose. On the palate, notes of vanilla, espresso and toast add depth to the juicy, black cherry core. Round tannins make this already accessible; enjoy through 2018.
Aromas of plum, scorched earth and a whiff of game lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, leather, anise and sage alongside firm but fleeting tannins that lead to a somewhat abrupt, astringent close.
Aromas of plum, spring flower and a whiff of dark spice lead the nose while the round, juicy palate doles out fleshy blackberry, ripe wild cherry and a light touch of anise. Simple but well made, enjoy this for everyday and informal occasions.
Aromas of plum, stewed cherry, milk chocolate and vanilla are accented by notes of smoke. Fruit and barrel flavors intertwine on the palate, with fruit winning out on the finish that narrows a bit.
Aromas of plum, tilled soil, truffle, dark baking spice and a whiff of violet lead the nose. The medium-bodied, easygoing palate offers juicy black cherry, white pepper and clove framed in lithe tannins and lively acidity. Enjoy through 2018.
Aromas of plum, toasted oak, cedar and espresso lead the nose. The palate delivers black cherry, roasted coffee bean, licorice and clove alongside a tannic backbone. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of plum, violet and a whiff of spice emerge on this extremely simple red. The short diluted palate suggests red cherry and a hint of vanilla alongside frail tannins.
Aromas of plum, violets, orange peel, earth and herb are followed by palate-staining fruit flavors. A lengthy finish caps it off.
Aromas of plum, wild herbs and tobacco are mature and suggest that this is ready to drink. In the mouth, this is medium-bodied, with clarity and a sense of freshness. Plum, berry and cherry flavors finish in harmony. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of pointed red plum and mild earthy, leafy aromas precede a well-constructed palate, with dark plum and standard berry flavors. This is a mellow wine that's very good for the price.
Aromas of pomegranate, black fruit, herb and barrel spice lead to rich seamless palate-coating dark-fruit flavors. It's hedonistic but retains a sense of balance along with an unabashed deliciousness.
Aromas of pork au jus with mashed cranberry and pomegranate mesh expertly with sage spice, woody forest-floor notes, porcini mushrooms and a touch of juniper on the nose. The palate offers lots of juniper and anise spice atop a boysenberry core, with black slate and graphite minerality.
Aromas of potpourri, blackberry and sweet plum play off licorice, woodspice and tire rubber. The flavors are sweet with a good sense of concentration and balance.
Aromas of powdered bubble gum, plum and chlorine aren't great, nor is the clamping, gritty feeling palate. With flavors of tart citrus and not much more, this is a limited but decent South American rosé.
Aromas of pressed acacia flower, beeswax and a balsamic note come together on this. On the full-bodied palate, notes of vanilla and honey accent the primary flavors of candied tangerine zest and white peach. A note of toasted almond closes the finish.
Aromas of pressed acacia flower, nut and smoke lead the nose. The lively, lean palate doles out unripe Bartlett pear, yellow apple skin and a flinty mineral note alongside zesty acidity.
Aromas of pressed apple and pear are savory and earthy on this brisk, medium-bodied Grüner Veltliner. There's a dusty minerality that lingers through the midpalate, but the finish is bright and lemony.
Aromas of pressed apples and pears turn fleshier and riper on the palate of this forward, concentrated Riesling. Sumptuous peach and apricot flavors amass a honeyed sweetness on the midpalate, balanced neatly by squirts of tangerine acidity. It's an approachable, fruity wine to drink now through 2017.
Aromas of pressed blue flower, spiced plum and pipe tobacco mingle in this blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Petit Verdot. The racy, tight palate offers black currant, black cherry, licorice and espresso alongside assertive but fine-grained tannins that still need to unwind. Drink after 2017.
Aromas of pressed blue flowers, ripe plum, dark berry, anise, coffee and nutmeg lead the nose. The lively palate delivers juicy black Morello cherry, milk chocolate, orange zest and a hint of baking spice alongside bright acidity and supple tannins. Made to be drunk young so enjoy now.
Aromas of pressed honeysuckle and orchard fruit lead the nose while the vibrant savory palate doles out ripe peach, yellow apple and a hint of lemon zest. An almond note lends a pleasantly bitter finish.
Aromas of pressed rose petal, roasted herb and a funky but not unpleasant trace of game lead the way. The gamey note carries through to the ripe, chewy palate, together with juicy Morello cherry, raspberry compote, mint, clove and mineral while a saline note closes the finish. It's still young and tannic, but shows a certain rustic charm. Drink 2019–2025.
Aromas of pressed rose, dried berry, leather, chopped herb, cinnamon and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. The subtle palate delivers dried black cherry, black raspberry, licorice and a hint of tobacco alongside firm, ripe tannins. Enjoy sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of pressed rose, red berry, chopped herb and espresso lead the nose. The firm palate offers juicy black cherry, licorice and a hint of mocha alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. Drink after 2018.
Aromas of pressed rose, toast, menthol and a whiff of cellar floor emerge after a few minutes in the glass. The palate shows dried cherry, coffee, vanilla and a hint of mocha alongside bracing tannins that leave an astringent finish.
Aromas of pressed Spanish broom, oak, marzipan and citrus blend in the glass. The rich, medium-bodied palate offers candied nectarine zest, vanilla and toasted almond alongside bright acidity. Drink now or hold for a few more years.
Aromas of pressed spring flower, peach blossom and yellow stone fruit take center stage. The dense full-bodied palate offers ripe yellow plum, dried apricot and rosemary honey.
Aromas of pressed violet, dark berry, baking spice, aromatic herbs and a whiff of leather lead the way. The firmly structured palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice, mocha and espresso alongside velvety, compact tannins that still need to unwind.
Aromas of pressed violet, ripe berry, menthol and a touch of exotic spice emerge on this full-bodied red. Showing its hot-vintage origins, the firm palate doesn't boast a lot of fruit richness but offers licorice, espresso, powdered sage and dried cherry accompanied by bracing, grainy tannins.
Aromas of pressed white flower and a hint of stone fruit lead the nose. The simple palate offers subtle green apple and unripe yellow peach alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of pressed white flower and orchard fruit waft from the glass. On the palate, a nutty note of toasted hazelnut and a mineral vein add depth to the dried apricot, baked yellow peach and citrus flavors. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of pressed white flower, citrus and beeswax unfold in the glass. The palate offers citrus zest, dried apricot and lemon drop. It has nice depth but drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of pressed white flower, stone fruit and chopped herb lead the nose. On the vibrant palate, crisp acidity brightens creamy white peach, passion fruit, sage and mineral.
Aromas of pressed white flowers, almond and citrus waft from the glass. The rich, vibrant palate offers ripe pear, green apple, candied nectarine zest and a saline note alongside firm acidity and a creamy perlage.
Aromas of pressed white flowers, lightly toasted almond and citrus zest lead the way. The palate offers creamed pear and candied lemon drop alongside firm acidity and frothy bubbles.
Aromas of pressed wildflower, orchard fruit, citrus and a whiff of nut lead the nose. The luminous palate delivers yellow apple, Kaiser pear, nectarine and bitter almond accompanied by tangy acidity.
Aromas of pressed yellow flowers, Bartlett pear and a hint of citrus lead the nose. The bright, savory palate doles out creamy white peach, green apple, pear and a mineral note alongside vibrant acidity and a frothy mousse.
Aromas of pressed yellow flowers, dried apricot, tropical fruit and a pastry note emerge on this luminous wine. The elegant palate delivers ripe Golden Delicious apple, toasted almond and a yeasty note of bread crust alongside an ultrafine perlage and tangy acidity. A hint of citrus zest closes the lingering finish.
Aromas of pring flower, gold apple and Anjou pear lead into the crisp refreshing palate along with a hint of nectarine. Tart acidity gives it a bright, juicy finish.
Aromas of prune and cocoa powder accurately portend a chunky, plodding palate with flat tannins. This is at maximum ripeness, but it's not totally balanced, as raisin, mint and black pepper flavors finish with heat and herbal notes.
Aromas of prune and plum come with earthy accents and rubbery notes. The palate on this Monastrell is drawing, with rubbery tannins. Flavors lean toward blackberry, dark plum and cassis, while the finish is solid but short and clipped. For a full-bodied, value-priced wine to drink with grilled meats, this is it.
Aromas of prune, blackberry, lemon peel and shoe polish are dark and earthy. This feels full and chewy, with hard tannins. Dark toasty black-fruit flavors come with herbal notes and wood spice flavors, while this tastes herbal, oaky, minty and like clove on the finish.
Aromas of prune, blackcurrant, toast and oak carry through to the extracted palate, along with flavors of black cherry and roasted coffee beans. Firm but drying tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of prune, espresso, cherries marinated in spirits and resin lead the nose. The palate has bracing tannins but not a lot of fruit richness, offering roasted sensations of coffee bean, ground pepper and toasted almond. It closes on a licorice note.
Aromas of prune, licorice and dark fruit lead to full cranberry and cherry flavors. It shows a sense of vitality and liveliness.
Aromas of prune, mature blackberry and baking spice open this dense dessert wine. The palate doles out blackberry jam, dried black berry and vanilla alongside chewy tannins.
Aromas of prune, plum cake, graphite and baking spices waft from the glass of this intense, full-bodied wine. The savory palate delivers mature black plum, blueberry extract, white pepper and mocha alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity. It's surprisingly accessible already but will develop more complexity with aging. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of prune, pressed purple flower and powdered sage lift out of the glass along with a suggestion of rubber. The palate is ripe and full bodied, offering raisin, dried black cherry and a hint of exotic spice. Close-grained tannins give it a grippy finish.
Aromas of prune, raisin and baking spice lead the nose. The youthfully austere, primary palate shows raisin and ground pepper alongside bracing tannins that clench the finish. Give the tannins another couple of years then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of prune, raisin and black plum are full and gritty. A chunky full-bodied palate feels grabby, while this tastes of generic blackberry, burnt coffee and dark chocolate. A steady plump, rubbery finish closes the show.
Aromas of prune, raisin and graphite come together in this wine. The ample palate delivers blackberry, clove and orange peel alongside chewy tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
Aromas of prune, raisin, tomato leaf and rose petals lead to a somewhat heavy palate with a stewy character and big tannins. Baked, raisiny red-fruit flavors come with a note of caramel or molasses, while desiccated berry flavors dominate the finish.
Aromas of prune, red berry, graphite and mint lead the nose. The palate delivers raw red cherry, black pepper, anise and sage alongside bright acidity and compact tannins.
Aromas of prune, underbrush, leather and toasted oak lead the nose. The firm palate offers dried cherry, licorice and espresso while tightly packed tannins leave a rather drying finish. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of pumpkin, squash and corn chips are stale and not inviting. There's an acceptable mouthfeel to this weird, unbalanced Chardonnay along with flavors of spiced squash, mealy apple and sautéed root vegetables.
Aromas of pure black fruit, slightly burned toast, concentrated plum, black cherries and a touch of espresso show on this study of a rarely standalone grape. The palate is firm with chewy tannins yet approachable in flavors, offering dried elderberries, coffee beans, burned caramel flavors.
Aromas of pure lemon zest and green pear notes fuse into lime zest on the streamlined palate of this easy and superrefreshing summer Riesling. Drink soon.
Aromas of purple flower and wild berry lead the nose on this blend of 60% Sangiovese, 22% Merlot, 10% Canaiolo 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Colorino. The easy-drinking, chewy palate doles out black raspberry, Morello cherry, black pepper and baking spice alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of purple fruit, cocoa, green-pepper, vanilla and cherry bring easy-drinking pepper and cherry flavors. The concentration seems surprisingly light and the fruit a bit green given the quality of the vintage.
Aromas of quince and lemon see the stage for flavors of green apple, quince and geranium leaf. Floral notes overpower fruit flavors, and the finish is slightly stiff for a white wine.
Aromas of radiator dust, lime and green apple are a bit heavy and scattershot. However the palate is tangy and lean, with cutting acidity. Lead flavors of waxy apricot are backed by orange and lime notes, while the finish is dry and waxy, with a yeasty, leesy flavor bolstered by snappy acidity.
Aromas of radiator dust, melon, apple cider and minerals are intriguing and suggest good quality. A minerally, citric, chiseled palate offers flavors of crushed vitamins, tart persimmon and salty sea brine. Saltiness comes back on a minerally finish.
Aromas of raisin and cassis lean in the direction of overripe. This is less elegant and more blocky than most bottlings of Unico, but with ripe, loamy blackberry and plum flavors, it tastes great. A slightly hollow but round finish with mild residual tannins suggests that this be drunk now through 2024.
Aromas of raisin and cooked black fruits are malty. This high-alcohol Malbec feels hard, tannic and collapsed. Stewy nutty flavors of blackberry and prune come with a dash of salt, while this shows raisiny flavors and dry tannins on a heavy finish.
Aromas of raisin, Oriental spice and resin emerge in the glass. The polished but evolved palate offers dried black cherry, mocha, clove and licorice alongside smooth, fleeting tannins. This has seen fresher days so drink soon.
Aromas of raisin, purple flower, stewed plum, Asian spice and a hint of resin lead the nose on this dense red. The big monolithic palate doles out mature black plum, raisin, blackberry extract and licorice alongside velvety tannins. A confectionery note closes the finish.
Aromas of raisin, tobacco, cedar and toasted oak lead the nose on this full-bodied Merlot. The palate offers dried black cherry, black currant, graphite, licorice and clove alongside firm tannins that are rather rough on the finish.
Aromas of raisin, vanilla, nutmeg, peppermint and a whiff of resin lead the nose of this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. The easy-drinking palate delivers crushed black cherries, black currants, clove and chocolate covered mint alongside supple tannins.
Aromas of raspberries, vanilla and coconut lead to lightly styled fruit and barrel flavors. It's all about elegance.
Aromas of raspberry and baking spices are followed by tart, full-bodied fruit flavors backed by cranberry-like tartness. It shows a lovely sense of texture but the alcohol distracts.
Aromas of raspberry and black pepper lay the groundwork for flavors of raspberry, eucalyptus, black cherry and thyme. Soft but ever present tannins go on long after the bright cherry finish.
Aromas of raspberry and blue flower open this lovely wine. The juicy palate offers ripe marasca cherry while cinnamon and white pepper add depth. This isn't very complicated, but who cares—the delicious flavors and smooth tannins make it an absolute joy to drink. Not an ager so enjoy soon.
Aromas of raspberry and green peppercorn carry the nose. The palate is green, with underripe cranberry and wild blackberry accompanied by leather and white pepper. Underripe tannins are course throughout and dominate the finish with flavors of blackberry and cedar.
Aromas of raspberry and herb intermingle on the nose, which also shows a touch of reduction. The palate offers soft tart fruit flavors that provide appeal.
Aromas of raspberry and strawberry are grassy, and the wine feels hard, lean and grinding. The flavor profile mirrors the nose, and the wine finishes with jammy but green raspberry notes.
Aromas of raspberry compote, vanilla, clove and a balsamic note slowly emerge on this structured red. The firm yet elegant palate shows dark cherry, cranberry, licorice, chopped herb and mineral. Fresh acidity and polished fine-grained tannins lend balance and finesse. Drink 2018–2027.
Aromas of raspberry jam are a bit stretched out and unusual for a Rioja. In the mouth, this is fresh and fruity, but a bit light on substance. Savory red-fruit flavors end comfortably, with a good texture.
Aromas of raspberry jam, pencil lead and barrel spices are followed by rich, full-bodied fruit flavors that pack a hefty punch. Not for the faint of heart, it shows the power this growing region can bring.
Aromas of raspberry jam, toasted oak, menthol and roasted coffee bean open. The firm palate offers dried blackberry, mocha and licorice with assertive, close-grained tannins. An espresso note signals the close.
Aromas of raspberry, black cherry and a hint of jalapeño lead the way for flavors of black cherry, Dr Pepper, eucalyptus and butterscotch. Despite good acid balance and a bright finish, eucalyptus notes outweigh fruit flavors.
Aromas of raspberry, black licorice, woodspice, toast and cherry are followed by abundant red- and black-fruit flavors. There's plenty of richness and a finish that won't quit.
Aromas of raspberry, blackberry, green herbs and tar set up a blocky, jammy, chunky palate. Plum, raspberry, currant, pepper and oaky flavors are grainy and spicy, while a woody finish tastes resiny, chocolaty and toasty.
Aromas of raspberry, caramel and toast introduce flavors of pomegranate, strawberry, cherry preserves, vanilla and toast. There is a nice interplay of tannins and acidity, with supple mouthfeel and a fresh, clean finish.
Aromas of raspberry, coffee, herbs, smoke and baking spices are austere on the nose. The fruit and barrel flavors are bright and tart, showing a lot of polish, detail and length.
Aromas of raspberry, plum, freshly ground black pepper, herb and wood spice lead to pure tart cranberry and cherry flavors that bring a compelling feel. The tannins bring a light squeeze. It's a lovely example of the variety.
Aromas of raspberry, thyme and sage are the lead-in to flavors of black cherry, cassis, cranberry, smoked meat and violet. Tannins are slightly stiff, but that is more than made up for by a constant sense of zippy acidity that carries on right into a bright and lingering finish.
Aromas of raw oak, cinnamon, bacon and clove outmuscle fruit on this rough, tannic, scraping 2013. Flavors of toast, chocolate and baking spices push blackberry and black-plum fruit towards an oaky, abrasive finish with rocky tannins and accents of chocolate and cinnamon. Holding this for another couple of years may or may not soften this fierce but tasty RDD.
Aromas of raw oak, eucalyptus and gritty berry fruits are hot and leafy. This Tempranillo-based blend feels choppy with aggressive grating tannins. Flavors of baked roasted berry fruits are also herbal, green and leafy, while this finishes crisp, raw and tomatoey in flavor.
Aromas of raw oak, paint and dark-berry fruits lead to a medium-bodied palate with candied, oaky, mildly bitter black cherry and plum flavors. A modest finish closes with lasting bitterness and medicinality.
Aromas of raw oak, related spice, vanilla and berry fruits lead to a fresh palate that's slightly choppy in feel. With its cherry, raspberry and oak flavors this blend of Garnacha, Tempranillo and Carignan blend finishes dry, spicy and steady.
Aromas of raw oak, vanilla and cherry settle with airing, but this Rioja feels a bit wiry and choppy. Plum, berry and oak flavors finish well, with bright acidity paving the way.
Aromas of raw oak, vanilla, balsamic vinegar and olive crowd out blackberry and cassis notes. This Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend feels a bit reduced and choppy. Herbal berry and chocolate flavors finish dry due to hard, almost abrasive tannins.
Aromas of red-skinned berry, underbrush and leather lead into a medium-bodied palate that offers cherry, tobacco and a hint of white pepper. It's rather straightforward and already approachable so drink over the next few years.
Aromas of red and black berries, tilled earth, leather and balsamic notes characterize this structured, single-vineyard bottling. The savory palate delivers creamy cherry-berry layered with mint, white pepper, licorice and balsamic herbs supported by firm tannins. Drink 2016–2026.
Aromas of red apple and spice lead to rounded fruit flavors that provide easy-drinking appeal. It's a well-priced spot-on example of the variety.
Aromas of red apple, pear and tangerine are bright. The palate doesn't offer much complexity but offers easy-drinking pleasure.
Aromas of red berries and summer flowers lead easily into a palate of soft, creamy fruit. The wine is simple, pleasant, a celebratory rosé. If it lacks great character, it does hang together well, leaving a fresh aftertaste.
Aromas of red berry and a yeasty note of pastry dough lead the nose while the creamy palate offers apple, bread crust and a hint of baking spice. Bright acidity and a persistent perlage provide the backdrop.
Aromas of red berry and alpine wildflower waft from the glass. Supple tannins and bright acidity support the crushed red cherry, red currant and white almond flavors. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of red berry and balsamic herbs provide the focus of this vibrant and easy-going wine made entirely with Sangiovese. The lush palate offers black cherry and a hint of licorice alongside firm but ripe tannins. There's no complexity, but this enjoyable red is perfect to pair with everyday fare. Drink now. Wine4All, Specialty Wine.
Aromas of red berry and crushed blue flower open this easy-drinking red. The bright, vertical palate offers sour cherry and a hint of cooking spice alongside vibrant acidity and sleek tannins.
Aromas of red berry and wildflower take shape in the glass. The bright palate offers wild cherry, strawberry and a hint of almond alongside vibrant acidity and lithe tannins. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of red berry, apple and a whiff of bread dough lead the nose. The lively palate offers sour cherry, nectarine and bread crust alongside firm acidity and a vivacious perlage.
Aromas of red berry, blue flower and tilled soil lead the way on this young elegant wine. The fresh tightly wound palate shows cherry, licorice, sage and an iron note set against close-knit tannins. It's still youthfully austere so give it time to come around. Drink 2020–2031.
Aromas of red berry, blue flower, menthol, exotic spice and a whiff of French oak take shape on this impeccably balanced radiant red. The palate is vibrant and focused—almost ethereal—delivering raspberry compote, Marasca cherry, star anise and cinnamon framed in elegant tannins. Weightless and loaded with finesse, it's an incredible result for what was a cool wet vintage in most of Italy. Drink through 2024.
Aromas of red berry, blue flower, tilled soil, menthol and a smoky whiff of flint swirl around the glass. On the vibrant linear palate, notes of licorice and white pepper accent sour cherry and pomegranate while a graphite note closes the finish. This is elegant and balanced, with youthfully firm tannins and bright acidity.
Aromas of red berry, chopped herb, moist underbrush and new leather lead the way. The firm palate is less inviting than the nose, offering dried cherry, roasted coffee bean and grilled sage set against bracing grainy tannins that leave a somewhat raspy finish.
Aromas of red berry, clove and star anise emerge on this lively, light-bodied red. The easygoing palate offers tart cherry, white pepper and an orange peel note alongside lithe tannins and bright acidity.
Aromas of red berry, crushed blue flower and a toasted note take center stage. The slightly cloudy palate and fine sediment—a result of secondary fermentation in the bottle with no disgorgement—delivers delicate creamy cherry, juicy raspberry and hint of cinnamon alongside bright acidity. Panebianco, Golden State Wine.
Aromas of red berry, espresso, underbrush and French oak lead the nose along with a balsamic note. The bright, sleek palate evokes wild cherry, crushed raspberry, pipe tobacco and licorice alongside tightly knit, fine-grained tannins that lend refined support. Drink 2020–2028.
Aromas of red berry, exotic spice and blue flower lift out of the glass. The firm, grippy palate shows espresso, clove and dried cherry alongside assertive tannins that leave a bracing finish.
Aromas of red berry, game, scorched earth and a whiff of menthol emerge on this full-bodied Barolo. The linear, powerful palate offers succulent red cherry, wild berry, anise and baking spice alongside firm but refined tannins and bright acidity. Give it time to unwind then enjoy. Drink after 2020.
Aromas of red berry, grilled herb and baking spice emerge on this bright, full-bodied red. It's still young and primary, but offers juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, mocha, cinnamon and white pepper alongside fine-grained tannins and racy acidity. Give this time to fully develop. Drink 2018–2027.
Aromas of red berry, grilled herb and espresso come together on the nose. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry, tobacco and mocha alongside dusty, astringent tannins. A licorice note closes the finish.
Aromas of red berry, grilled herb, oak-driven spice and a balsamic note lead the nose on this. The palate is still tight and closed but eventually gives up raw cherry, strawberry, sage and espresso alongside assertive, raspy tannins. Let the tannins soften a bit and then drink up before the fruit fades.
Aromas of red berry, leather and cooking spice take center stage. The enjoyable, savory palate offers black cherry, clove and a hint of sage alongside refined tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
Aromas of red berry, mint, menthol and baking spice slowly take shape in the glass. On the palate, notes of anise, chopped herb and black pepper add depth to the cherry-raspberry core. Firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity provide the framework. Drink 2018–2024.
Aromas of red berry, rose and cake spices lead the way on this ripe, forward Barolo. The round palate offers black cherry, raspberry, licorice and white pepper alongside polished tannins. It's already extremely accessible, so don't leave it in the cellar for too long. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of red berry, rose petal, blue flower, crushed herb and a whiff of espresso lift out of the glass along with a menthol note. The taut vibrant palate offers crushed strawberry, tart cherry, white pepper and star anise alongside tightly knit fine-grained tannins. It's extremely elegant but still youthfully austere at this stage so give it several more years to unwind. Drink 2023–2038.
Aromas of red berry, rose, toast and a whiff of oak emerge in the glass. The firm palate offers mature wild cherry, licorice, grilled sage and mineral alongside taut, fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of red berry, sage, cinnamon and a whisper of menthol lead the nose and carry over to the solid palate together with juicy sour cherry, black raspberry, licorice and tobacco. It's a classic Barolo, straightforward and delicious, with ripe, integrated tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas of red berry, savory herb and a balsamic note lead the nose. The ripe palate delivers black cherry, crushed plum, sage and licorice. Soft acidity and fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of red berry, sunbaked earth and crushed blue flower lead the nose. The easy-drinking palate offers mature wild cherry, white pepper and anise alongside polished tannins. It's simple but savory. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of red berry, tilled earth and forest floor set the tone for this bright, friendly red. The juicy palate doles out wild cherry, crushed raspberry and savory herb framed by firm acidity and fine-grained tannins. There's not much complexity but it is delicious.
Aromas of red berry, tilled earth, menthol and dark cooking spice unfold in the glass. The structured, elegant palate doles out ripe wild cherry, mint, licorice, blood orange and chopped herb alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. It's still tight so let it unwind for a few more years. Drink after 2019.
Aromas of red berry, toast, and a hint of vanilla come together on this. The palate is a bit lean, exhibiting unripe red cherry accented with black pepper, anise and dried sage. Solid tannins provide structure.
Aromas of red berry, tobacco, coconut and espresso meld together with a balsamic note. The palate is young and aggressive, offering toast, oak-driven spice and a green note of powdered sage alongside grainy, astringent tannins. A note of salted game marks the close.
Aromas of red berry, underbrush, chopped herb and a toasted note lead the nose. On the rather lean palate, notes of espresso, toasted hazelnut and sage accent a sour cherry core.
Aromas of red berry, violet and baking spice are front and center. Polished and savory, the palate offers cinnamon and crushed herb alongside a backbone of refined tannins. Bright acidity lends nice balance. Drink 2023–2033.
Aromas of red berry, wild cherry, clove and cinnamon give this Shiraz a stylish start. Flavors of red fruit, spice and anise are integrated and smooth. Well structured but drinkable now. The lingering finish offers pepper, anise and spice.
Aromas of red cherry and a whiff of baking spice emerge from this bright blend of 70% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The aromas carry over to the fresh, easy-drinking palate along with a crushed raspberry note. Enjoy through 2016.
Aromas of red cherry, blackberry, herb and a whiff of blue flower lead the nose. Made entirely with Sangiovese, the palate doles out fleshy plum and juicy black cherry while clove, white pepper and grilled herb provide backup. Sleek tannins make this already very accessible.
Aromas of red currant and violet lead the nose on this 100% Schiava. The lively palate offers up sour cherry, tangerine and an almond note. It's balanced with bright acidity and delicate tannins. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of red currant with a dusting of green peppercorn and menthol show moderate concentration on the nose. Medium bodied, with grippy tannins, the palate brings tart red cherries into the mix.
Aromas of red currant, blue flower and a whiff of baking spice come together in the glass. Made with 90% Schiava and 10% Lagrein, the easygoing palate offers toast, red berry and vanilla. It's made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.
Aromas of red currant, cedar, bell pepper, coffee and cut grass lead the nose on this structured red. The palate delivers dried black cherry, cassis, cocoa, licorice and black pepper alongside grippy tannins.
Aromas of red fruit and chopped thyme lead the way on this simple wine. The bright easygoing palate offer cherry and a hint of ground pepper while a bitter almond note closes the finish.
Aromas of red fruit and herb are followed by light but pure cherry flavors. It provides a lot of easy-drinking appeal.
Aromas of red fruit, cherry meat, herb and pencil lead are followed by full fruit flavors. It pulls up on the finish.
Aromas of red fruit, herb and spice are followed by tart, full-bodied fruit flavors. A persistent finish caps it off.
Aromas of red fruit, vanilla and cigarbox start this Cabernet Sauvignon from Greece. Its flavors are rich but balanced—cinnamon, cedar, cherry and savory spice—and the wine finishes clean and dry. Elegant with ageable potential.
Aromas of red fruits, olive and hard spice lead to a sheer palate with juiciness galore along with red raspberry, cranberry and spice flavors. Very zesty but not harsh. Must have food to handle the acids.
Aromas of red fruits, tomato, herbs, tobacco and cedar are stylish and not overpowering. This feels fresh and a touch earthy, with flavors of tobacco, cinnamon, cassis and baked berries. The finish is medium in length and intensity, with apparent but not overbearing oak. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of red licorice candy and raspberry are fruity, forward and clean. The palate is more than competent and balanced, with creamy strawberry and raspberry flavors. The finish is short but easy, and for the price that's all you can ask for.
Aromas of red plum and citrus qualify as raw and sharp. This is racy on the palate, with high acidity. Flavors of plum and cherry show mild spice and herbal shadings, while a tart red-fruit character is maintained across the finish.
Aromas of red plum, herbs, smoky leather and toast crust unveil this Cab Franc with 5% Malbec. An expansive palate is the opposite of restrained, while this tastes earthy and spicy, with herbal cherry, plum and cassis flavors. A dry, composed, lightly herbal finish is a fine conclusion. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of red plum, tomato and herbs are savory and a bit saucy. This feels dense and pulpy, but balanced. Flavors of plum, raspberry, currant and earthy spices finish with a hint of oak, licorice and spiced berry notes. Best from 2018 through 2022.
Aromas of red rose, wild cherry, forest floor and a whiff of leather take center stage. The palate expresses ripe black cherry accented by vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, clove, white pepper, balsamic herbs and subtle oak alongside firm tannins. It's already delicious, but give it time to develop. Drink after 2020.
Aromas of reduction and overripe fruit are followed by off-dry flavors that lack cohesion.
Aromas of resin, blue flower, Asian spice, leather and a balsamic note meld together in the glass. The robust palate offers dried black cherry, date, sage and clove alongside firm close-grained tannins. This is still rather closed so give it a few more years to fully develop. Drink 20182023.
Aromas of resin, coconut and ripe plum lead the nose. The forward, ripe palate offers prune steeped in spirits, dried black cherry, vanilla, coffee, coconut, oak and drying tannins.
Aromas of resin, dark spice and black-skinned berry lead the nose. The lively straightforward palate shows espresso and dried black cherry alongside vigorous acidity.
Aromas of resin, nail polish remover and violet lead the nose while the nervous palate delivers raw red cherry, toasted oak, coconut and cooking spice. It lacks fruit richness and the bracing, astringent tannins give it a choppy finish.
Aromas of resin, nail polish, overripe plum steeped in spirits, oak and a confectionary note lead the way. The warm palate displays ripe black cherry, cocoa, anise and a whisper of licorice framed in velvety tannins. Drink through 2026.
Aromas of resin, spiced plum, blue flower and a whiff of pipe tobacco float out of the glass. The smooth brawny palate presents dried black cherry, prune, vanilla, mocha and cinnamon framed in firm, velvety tannins. Drink 2018–2016.
Aromas of resin, underbrush, vanilla and espresso lead the nose on this warm, forward wine. The evolved palate offers toast, raisin and roasted coffee bean but not much fruit richness. It's already tired so drink now.
Aromas of resin, vanilla, toast and espresso carry over to the palate. It's dense and sweet with drying tannins on the finish. This isn't an ager so enjoy soon with hearty first courses or medium seasoned cheeses.
Aromas of rhubarb and red-apple skins lead to a flat, fading palate. This tastes saucy, with no vibrancy or fruit character prior to a dying yeasty finish.
Aromas of rhubarb, herbs and strawberry mark the nose. This feels solid and mostly fresh, while flavors of pickled rhubarb and briny plum come with sugary sweetness in front of a salty finish.
Aromas of rich, concentrated blackberry preserves are accented with spice and char on this medium-bodied wine. Soft acidity adds refreshment to the midpalate, guiding a moderately long finish tinged with granite and fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of ripe (leaning almost overripe) apple, melon and orange peel are followed by medium-sweet fruit flavors. It needs more acid to stand it up.
Aromas of ripe apple and poached pear are accented by spice. It drinks medium sweet with mandarin-orange flavors that linger.
Aromas of ripe apple, sliced pear and white flowers lead to tart, lighter-side-of-medium-bodied fruit flavors. Spices notes fill out the finish. It delivers easy-drinking enjoyment and is very varietal.
Aromas of ripe back-skinned fruit, violet and cocoa lead the nose. The round, juicy palate doles out wild cherry, crushed raspberry, fig and baking spice alongside smooth, polished tannins. It's savory and easy drinking, with a carob note on the finish.
Aromas of ripe berry, allspice and blue flower lead the nose. On the palate, notes of white pepper and clove accent a core of juicy black cherry. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of ripe berry, brown cooking spice and a whiff of espresso lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The firmly structured palate offers juicy raspberry, black cherry and licorice alongside a backbone of assertive but noble tannins. Drink 2020–2032.
Aromas of ripe berry, dark baking spice, leather, menthol and purple flower permeate the nose on this focused wine. The firmly structured palate offers licorice, dried black cherry and clove alongside assertive tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas of ripe berry, exotic spice, menthol and underbrush slowly take shape in the glass. It's full-bodied, offering raspberry jam, crushed herb and star anise set against fine-grained tannins. Drink 2019–2026.
Aromas of ripe berry, forest floor and a whiff of cake spice mingle in the glass. The ripe, structured and surprisingly friendly palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and clove. Packed but refined tannins along with fresh acidity offer support and provide balance. Drink 2016–2023.
Aromas of ripe berry, fragrant blue flower and a whiff of Alpine herb lead the nose. The generous palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas of ripe berry, fragrant blue flower and a whiff of cooking spice lead the nose on this bright red. The palate doles out juicy morello cherry, black raspberry, clove and white pepper alongside supple tannins.
Aromas of ripe berry, grilled herb and a whiff of wild flower lead the nose. The fresh, enjoyable palate offers fleshy red cherry, nut and mineral alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of ripe berry, grilled herb, leather and game lead the nose. The palate offers spiced plum, dried black cherry, mint, espresso, toast and vanilla alongside round tannins. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of ripe berry, leather, truffle and a whiff of balsamic herb emerge on this straightforward but extremely enjoyable red. The approachable, juicy palate offers black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, white pepper and a touch of clove alongside big, velvety tannins. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of ripe berry, Mediterranean herb, menthol and eucalyptus lead the nose. The medium-bodied palate is already somewhat evolved offering blackberry extract, mature black cherry, licorice, spice and espresso alongside polished tannins. It closes on a note of bitter walnut.
Aromas of ripe berry, sunbaked soil and a hint of game lead the nose. The straightforward palate offers dried black cherry, clove and a hint of tobacco alongside supple tannins. It's already accessible so enjoy soon.
Aromas of ripe berry, toast and a whiff of scorched earth emerge in the glass. The palate is more expressive, offering cherry marinated in spirits, roasted herb and licorice alongside firm refined tannins.
Aromas of ripe berry, toast, chopped herb and coffee lead the way. On the palate, assertive, fine-grained tannins support raw red cherry, fresh raspberry, vanilla and aniseed.
Aromas of ripe berry, underbrush and exotic spice waft from the glass. The structured palate offers juicy black cherry, vanilla, espresso and aniseed alongside hearty but fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned berry and a whiff of cooking spice lift out of the glass. The solid straightforward palate offers black currant, dried cherry and clove framed in seasoned tannins.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, blue flower, tilled soil and Oriental spice come together in the glass. The basic but savory palate displays mature black cherry, blackberry and ground pepper alongside soft, round tannins.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, fig, resin, leather and exotic spice lead the nose on this just-released ten-year-old. The full-bodied palate offers dried cherry, raisin, licorice, ground pepper and truffle while polished tannins provide support. It has already hit the start of its ideal drinking window so enjoy sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, ground pepper and a whiff of toast lead the nose. The straightforward palate offers dried cherry, pomegranate and roasted coffee bean alongside fine-grained but fleeting tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, new leather, menthol and a whisper of blue flower unfold on this stunning, elegantly structured wine. The vibrant palate doles out ripe black cherry, cinnamon and star anise framed in firm, fine-grained tannins. Hold for even more complexity. Absolutely superb. Drink 2022–2035.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, pressed violet, new leather and scorched earth lead the nose on this savory red. The medium-bodied palate offers prune, dried cherry and a hint of star anise alongside lithe tannins. Drink soon.
Aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, prune, tobacco, earth and Asian spice float out of the glass. The subdued but refined palate offers mature plum, blackberry, cocoa and cinnamon alongside polished, fine-grained tannins. It has soft appeal but is already evolved and short on intensity and verve. It will, however, make enjoyable drinking over the next few years.
Aromas of ripe black cherry, strawberry compote and baking spice lead the way while the easygoing palate offers crushed raspberry and hint of white pepper. Dusty tannins provide light support.
Aromas of ripe black currant, grilled pepper and cured meat lead the nose. The warm, hefty palate doles out black cherry marinated in spirits, blackberry extract, licorice and black pepper alongside almost scorching alcohol and tightly knit, close-grained tannins. The evident alcohol dominates the finish.
Aromas of ripe black currant, spice, pressed violet, scorched earth and a whiff of cedar emerge on this boldly structured red. The full-bodied palate delivers dried blackberry, raisin, licorice and chewing tobacco, accompanied by firm, chewy tannins. A black pepper note signals the close.
Aromas of ripe black fruit, coffee, oak, vanilla and a whiff of rubber take shape in the glass. The palate offers black raspberry, mocha and dark spice notes alongside polished tannins.
Aromas of ripe black fruit, spicy plum, graphite and a whiff of brine lead the nose of this robust wine. The round, savory palate doles out juicy blackberry, blueberry, licorice and ground black pepper alongside brawny tannins. It ends on a bitter prune note.
Aromas of ripe black fruit, tilled earth and grilled herb unfold in the glass. The straightforward, already accessible palate delivers sour cherry, licorice and white pepper accompanied by rather firm tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of ripe black fruit, underbrush, mushroom and forest floor come with a whiff of leather. The palate opens with ripe—almost sugary tasting—black cherry accented with white pepper, cinnamon and Mediterranean herbs alongside firm but fleeting tannins and soft acidity.
Aromas of ripe black fruits, graphite, dry herbs and licorice root are solid and encouraging. This Tempranillo blend from La Mancha feels choppy and tight, while screechy red-plum and cherry flavors finish a bit raw and hollow.
Aromas of ripe black plum, cooking spice and scorched earth lead the nose. The robust, bulky palate offers prune, dried cherry, vanilla and a hint of white pepper set against bracing tannins while the heat of scorching alcohol throws it off balance. Drink soon to catch the remaining fruit.
Aromas of ripe black plum, underbrush and exotic spice come together on this brawny red. The firm palate offers black cherry extract, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside chewy tannins.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, anisette, black pepper and scorched earth lead the nose. On the tight palate, notes of licorice, espresso, leather and clove accent a core of dried black cherry and fig.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, brown spice and fragrant blue flower waft from the glass. A blend of 50% Negroamaro, 25% Primitivo and 25% Malvasia Nera, the savory, approachable palate delivers black cherry, cranberry, nutmeg and mineral alongside firm tannins.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, prune and minerality are upright and intense. The palate is lush, smooth and balanced, while blackberry and cassis lead the flavor assault. A deep, long and delicious finish confirms that this wine offes great value for just over $20.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, ripe plum, toast, espresso and a whiff of coconut lead the nose. The brooding palate offers dried black cherry, mocha, licorice, tobacco and a hint of oak alongside chewy tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, toasted oak and a whiff of roasted coffee bean lead the nose and carry over to the palate of this forward wine. It's already extremely accessible so enjoy soon.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, vanilla and a whiff of toasted oak lead the nose. The straightforward palate evokes mature black cherry, mocha and spice alongside firm tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of ripe blackcurrant, grilled bell pepper and allspice mingle in the glass. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah and 10% Teroldego, the palate offers prune, dried blackberry, graphite, ground black pepper and cocoa alongside polished tannins. This has already reached its peak drinking window so enjoy soon.
Aromas of ripe blue- and black-skinned fruit, dried herb and cedar lead the nose on this savory blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot. The firmly structured palate doles out spiced blueberries, blackberries, mint and black pepper alongside chewy tannins. A licorice note signals the close. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of ripe blue and black-skinned fruit, dried herb, spice and a floral note lead the nose on this big, hearty wine. The warm, one-dimensional and forward palate delivers ripe black cherry, blackberry, licorice and searing alcohol alongside velvety tannins. The evident alcohol throws it off balance.
Aromas of ripe bluish-black fruit, crushed mint, iris and dark cooking spices lead the nose on this savory blend of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Syrah and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. The firm palate doles out fleshy black cherries, ripe blackberries, cinnamon, vanilla, mocha and tobacco. Velvety tannins support the delicious, juicy fruit flavors. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned berry, oak, toast and a confectionary note come together on this ripe red. On the smooth, structured palate, licorice and ground pepper accent a core of dried black cherry.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned berry, purple flower and a whiff of cake spice waft out of the glass. The firm palate offers black cherry, red plum and a note of ground pepper while fine-grained tannins and nervous acidity provide the framework.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned fruit and a whiff of exotic spice lead the nose on this ­straightforward red. The medium-bodied palate offers prune, mature black cherry and a hint of star anise alongside dusty, but rather fleeting tannins that leave a tongue-drying finish.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned fruit and baking spice lead the nose. The palate delivers black cherry, raspberry compote and a hint of ground pepper while close-knit, fine-grained tannins grip the finish.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned fruit, leather, clove, rose and a whiff of menthol set the tone. The firmly structured palate offers dried black cherry, licorice, tobacco and grilled herb alongside assertive tannins. Drink 2017–2025.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned fruit, spice rack, grilled herb and a whiff of leather lead the nose of this blend of 85% Sangiovese, with 15% Colorino, Canaiolo and Merlot. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, aniseed and tobacco alongside bracing tannins that leave an astringent finish. Even though the tannins need to unwind, drink sooner rather than later to enjoy the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of ripe dark-skinned fruit, spice, underbrush and dried herbs emerge from this blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. The palate delivers dried black cherries, plum, clove and grilled sage alongside tightly-knit tannins. Drink 2016–2020.
Aromas of ripe dark berry, allspice and a hint of moist soil lead the nose on this informal red. The easy-drinking, savory palate offers ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry and clove alongside bright acidity and polished tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of ripe dark berry, blue flower and a hint of baking spice waft from the glass. On the palate, notes of graphite, licorice and touch of smoke add depth to the ripe black cherry flavors. Firm tannins provide support.
Aromas of ripe dark berry, exotic spice, tobacco and an anise note lead the nose on this intense wine. The succulent palate delivers layers of blackberry, raspberry, clove, licorice and allspice. Tightly-knit but velvety tannins provide support.
Aromas of ripe dark berry, oak, coconut and a whiff of roasted coffee bean lead the nose. The bracing palate offers stewed plum, dried black cherry, toasted hazelnut and a green note of powdered sage alongside close-grained tannins that leave a rather grippy finish.
Aromas of ripe Granny Smith apple and exotic fruit lead to creamy flavors of apricot, beeswax and a hint of pineapple on this delicious white. Just enough fresh acidity balances the rich flavors.
Aromas of ripe grapes and vanilla make for a lush, inviting nose on this fruit-forward bottling of 49.5% Sangiovese, 49.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Malbec. The juicy palate shows blackberries and black cherries as well as licorice and dark chocolate, with strong tannins giving textural balance.
Aromas of ripe green apple, pear, Spanish broom and tangerine lead to a creamy palate of yellow stone fruit and a hint of white almond. Fresh acidity and a mineral note brighten the finish.
Aromas of ripe nectarines entice on the nose of this clean, crisp, medium-bodied Chardonnay. While initially quite soft, there's a tartness towards the midpalate that reflects hints of underripe stone fruit and quince.
Aromas of ripe orchard fruit and chopped herb jump out of the glass. The savory palate serves up juicy Bartlett pear, green apple, citrus and a mint note while a hint of white almond adds depth. Very appealing.
Aromas of ripe orchard fruit and citrus zest carry on to the lively palate along with a hint of ginger. Crisp acidity and small continuous bubbles provide a fresh elegant backdrop.
Aromas of ripe orchard fruit lead the nose on this easygoing sparkler. The bright simple palate offers green apple and lemon zest alongside fresh acidity and lively bubbles.
Aromas of ripe orchard fruit, Mediterranean herb and toasted hazelnut lead the nose while the bright palate offers green pear, peach, unripe apricot and bitter almond. A mineral note signals the close.
Aromas of ripe orchard fruit, pressed flower and a whiff of citrus zest take center stage on this enjoyable white. The bright palate offers golden apple and pear while a note of bitter almond closes the finish.
Aromas of ripe peaches, white flowers and fresh jasmine explode from the glass. The wine tastes sweet but still shows delicacy, with enough acid to balance it all out.
Aromas of ripe pear and green apple follow over to the rich creamy palate along with notes of nectarine and glazed lemon drop. Bright acidity provides freshness while a soft mousse lends finesse.
Aromas of ripe pear, citrus and nuts mingle in the glass. The bright, linear palate delivers juicy yellow peach, mature apple, nectarine, sage and toasted almond alongside crisp acidity. It closes on a smoky mineral note.
Aromas of ripe pear, white peach and tangerine zest carry over to the bright round palate. Energizing mineral notes, suggestive of wet stone, lift the savory finish.
Aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple and a hint of almond follow over to the linear bone-dry palate. It's exceedingly fresh, with brisk acidity and a vigorous perlage.
Aromas of ripe pears and peaches jump out of the glass, and the flavors follow suit, bouncing across the palate in a display of stone fruits. It's relatively full bodied, but a garnish of grapefruit zest on the finish keeps it balanced and lively. Best Buy.
Aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, leather and ground white pepper follow through to the smooth, full-bodied palate along with a mineral accent. Supple tannins and fresh acidity provide the framework while a licorice note signals the close.
Aromas of ripe plum, blue flower and baking spice lead the nose on this easy-drinking red. The chewy, straightforward palate doles out juicy black cherry, fleshy blackberry and a clove note alongside round tannins. It's made to drink young so enjoy soon.
Aromas of ripe plum, blue flower, tilled soil, truffle and a whiff of exotic incense lead the nose on this full-bodied wine. The juicy, chewy palate delivers mouthfuls of fleshy wild cherry, crushed black raspberry, baking spice and grilled herb framed in firm, velvety tannins. It's already delicious. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas of ripe plum, clove, sage, a whiff of violet and a balsamic note lead the nose. The round, hearty palate is more monolithic than the nose suggests, doling out mature black cherry, licorice and the searing heat of evident alcohol. Firm velvety tannins provide support.
Aromas of ripe plum, dark berry, violet, baking spice, leather and tilled earth all come together in the glass. The juicy, structured palate doles out crushed black cherry, anise, ground pepper, tobacco and a hint of chopped herb. It boasts a great depth of flavors and fruit purity, while firm, velvety tannins give it an almost creamy mouthfeel. Drink 2018–2027.
Aromas of ripe plum, espresso, sawdust, cocoa and allspice lead the nose. The palate offers mature blackberry, black pepper, oak extract and roasted coffee bean alongside raspy, astringent tannins.
Aromas of ripe plum, oak-driven spice and a whiff of pressed violet waft out of the glass. The sturdy, straightforward palate delivers dried black cherry, peppercorn and licorice alongside solid tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas of ripe plum, pressed blue flowers, dark berry and coffee lead the nose. The round, savory palate offers dried black cherry, cinnamon-spice and espresso alongside soft acidity and supple tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of ripe plum, roasted coffee bean and espresso come together in the glass. A blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot, the firm palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, toasted oak and grilled herb alongside assertive but fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of ripe plum, sunbaked earth and toast lead the way on this structured red. The palate offers dried black cherry, ground pepper and toasted oak while dusty tannins give it a firm, slightly astringent finish.
Aromas of ripe plum, violet, vanilla, toast and leafy underbrush come together on this is full-bodied red. The palate offers black cherry marinated in spirits, grilled porcini mushroom and dried aromatic herb alongside assertive tannins that leave a somewhat drying finish.
Aromas of ripe raspberry jam, plum, menthol and baking spice lead the nose on this bold red. The dense palate delivers raisin, dried black cherry and licorice alongside assertive, close-grained tannins that grip the finish.
Aromas of ripe raspberry, chocolate, black olive, and green herbs all combine in this well put together wine. The palate is taut and focused, with silky tannins, mouth-watering acidity and a long herbal finish. Tightly wound, this is best sipped with food or a few years of bottle age. Drink now–2024.
Aromas of ripe red apple and pencil lead are followed by tart cherry and cranberry flavors. It's a unique interpretation of the variety.
Aromas of ripe red apple skin, dried rose petal and roasted almond lead the nose and follow through to the palate. It has vibrant acidity and a brisk, persistent perlage but it lacks fruit richness. It closes on a note of bitter walnut.
Aromas of ripe red berry, cake spice, tilled earth and a balsamic note unfold on this structured, elegant red. On the full-bodied palate, notes of mint, anise and a hint of mocha accent the juicy black cherry core while firm but refined tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2031.
Aromas of ripe red berry, fragrant blue flower, cake spice, menthol and an earthy hint of truffle emerge in the glass. The juicy palate offers fleshy cherry, raspberry, licorice and chopped mint alongside firm, velvety tannins. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of ripe red berry, leather and pipe tobacco unfold on this concentrated red. The full-bodied, chewy palate offers fleshy Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and ground white pepper alongside tight, close-grained tannins that leave a tongue-drying finish.
Aromas of ripe red berry, scorched earth, leather, spice and balsamic notes lead the nose on this robust wine. The youthful palate is still closed but reveals mature black cherry, clove, black pepper and a hint of espresso alongside brooding tannins.
Aromas of ripe red cherries, licorice and vanilla extract emerge from this wine by the longtime estate across from the township of Santa Ynez. Blackberry and blueberry fruits power the palate, but there's a black dirt earthiness and some meatiness too. Tannins are still quite strong.
Aromas of ripe strawberry, mint, pipe tobacco and a whiff of forest floor take center stage on this structured red. The full-flavored elegant palate boasts a nice depth of flavors including red cherry, raspberry, cake spice and a hint of new leather alongside polished tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
Aromas of ripe white stone fruit and a whiff of toasted nut lift out of the glass. Mirroring the nose, the lively foaming palate doles out white peach, pear, glazed almond and citrus zest. Bright acidity lifts the rich flavors.
Aromas of ripe yellow fruits announce a wine that has rich fruit flavors of apricots touched by pineapple. It does have the attractive, nervy texture of 2008, along with an important layer of toast.
Aromas of ripe yellow pear, toasted bread crust and a whiff of candied lemon drop slowly emerge on the nose. The rich, deeply colored palate doles out pastry cream, nectarine zest and walnut. Tangy acidity brightens the creamy flavors.
Aromas of ripe yellow stone fruit and a whiff of nut carry over to the pleasant easygoing palate along with a hint of mature apricot. It's simple but well made, closing on a bitter-almond note.
Aromas of ripe, dark-skinned berry and crushed violet emerge from this vibrant blend of 60% Syrah, 20% Merlot and 20% Sangiovese. The  savory palate doles out black cherries and black currants accented with notes of toast and ground pepper. It's already accessible and made to be enjoyed young.
Aromas of ripe, dark-skinned berry, baking spice sunbaked soil, tobacco, grilled herb and a whiff of leather unfold on this smooth, structured red. The juicy, polished palate doles out fleshy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, candied orange zest, iron and nutmeg framed in velvety tannins that impart a silky mouthfeel. It's already delicious but will continue to develop complexity over the next decade. Drink through 2027.
Aromas of ripe, dark berry, cured meat, leather and game emerge on this wine. The dense, extracted palate offers vanilla, oak, toast, coconut and dried plum alongside astringent tannins.
Aromas of ripe, dark berry, mocha, toast and a whiff of clove lead the nose. The forward palate offers ripe black cherry, fleshy raspberry, vanilla, light oak, coconut and coffee alongside close-grained tannins. A mint note closes the finish. This is straightforward and already accessible so enjoy 2016–2020.
Aromas of ripe, dark fruit, tilled earth, game and oak-driven spice lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 15% Merlot. On the palate, vanilla, oak, licorice and espresso accent a core of black cherry while fine-grained tannins provide support.
Aromas of ripe—almost overripe—berry, leather and tobacco lead the nose of this wine. The palate shows more restraint, with succulent sour cherry, clove and vanilla flavors accented by hints of white chocolate and orange zest. Very smooth and richly textured.
Aromas of ripe—nearly overripe—black fruit, sweat and wet fur lead the nose. The palate offers fleshy black cherry, crushed plum, coconut and espresso alongside drying tannins.
Aromas of road tar and gritty black fruits come around but remain earthy. A chunky, slightly heavy palate is home to spicy, peppery plum and tomato flavors. The finish is lasting, snappy and drawing due to firm tannins and red-fruit acidity. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of roadside brush, field greens and raspberry are suggestive of fruit punch. The palate is full but somewhat cloying, while jammy red-fruit flavors come with a green note. The finish is jammy like the palate, with a pronounced chocolaty oak flavor.
Aromas of roast plum and earth are a bit nutty and muddled, but overall this is a likable and slick wine with soft tannins and ripe candied-fruit flavors. With lushness and cola on the finish, it ends a bit syrupy and sweet. Good but not what you'd call refined or elevated.
Aromas of roasted almond and pecan meet dried fig and date tones. The caramel-toffee laden palate brings an additional hint of brown-sugar-dusted walnut. While the acids are slightly sharp and the alcohol a bit abrasive, the sweet tones eventually balance things out, making it an easy sipper.
Aromas of roasted almond, wild flower and a whiff of candied cherry lead the way on this blend of 62% Chardonnay and 38% Pinot Nero. The palate delivers mature yellow apple and stone fruit alongside a note of roasted walnut.
Aromas of roasted and green coffee beans lead to plush fruit and barrel flavors. It shows a fine sense of balance.
Aromas of roasted but slightly weedy berry fruits, road tar and latex precede a raw shallow pulling palate. This Malbec tastes of salty and savory black plums, tomatoes and herbs. On the finish, this delivers mostly spaghetti-sauce flavors.
Aromas of roasted coffee bean, cherry, vanilla and black pepper are followed by plentiful cherry and chocolate flavors. The tannins bring a tacky feel.
Aromas of roasted coffee bean, coconut and plum cake lead the nose on this dense wine. The extracted palate offers prune, oak, espresso, dried black fruit and licorice alongside astringent tannins that leave a bitter finish. There's not enough fruit richness to stand up to the oak.
Aromas of roasted coffee bean, mature, black-skinned fruit and scorched earth lead the nose. The one-dimensional palate offers ripe black cherry, plum, espresso, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside round tannins.
Aromas of roasted coffee bean, ripe plum and dark kitchen spice waft out of the glass. The forward palate offers mature wild cherry, licorice, sage and espresso that carry through to the firm finish. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of roasted coffee bean, toast, oak-driven spice, ripe berry and scorched earth lead the nose. The firm palate offers black cherry extract, espresso, licorice, oak and coconut alongside assertive, grippy tannins. Still oak driven and tightly tannic, give this a few years to fully develop but then drink to capture the remaining fruit richness. Drink 2017–2021.
Aromas of roasted coffee beans, baked dark fruit and baking spices lead the nose. The tightly wound palate delivers black cherry, mocha, espresso and a confectionary note while a hint of licorice closes the finish. It's still wound up with assertive tannins that need to soften.
Aromas of roasted earth, leather and fine oak are more out-front than berry fruit, and that's the way it should be for a Gran Reserva. This feels bold, lively and still a touch bumpy. Chocolaty oak and vanilla notes rest comfortably on top of ripe berry and black-plum flavors, while the finish is persistently earthy and chocolaty. Drink through 2028.
Aromas of roasted savory berry fruits and baked beans are solid. This Merlot exhibits good grip on a medium-bodied palate. Salty earthy flavors of berry fruits and dry oak finish leafy and spicy.
Aromas of roasted walnut and toasted bread crust lead the nose on this blend of Pinot Nero, Chardonnay and just a touch of Pinot Meunier. The palate delivers candied lemon zest, apple skin and a ginger note alongside tangy acidity and a persistent perlage. The fruit richness has evolved into tertiary sensations although it retains fresh acidity.
Aromas of roasted, grapy berry fruits come with oak-based notes of plastic and clove. This wine feels full in body, with hard tannins. Flavors of woodspice, hickory and black fruits finish with a lingering hint of wood smoke.
Aromas of rooty berry, loamy dark plum and minerally crispness create a fine nose that offers notes of coffee and char as it unfolds. The palate on this Monastrell is widespread and grabby, with baked blackberry, raspberry and plum flavors. Chocolate and spice notes ride high on a comfortable finish. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of rose and baked apple lead the way on this vibrant sparkler. The lively palate delivers strawberry, nectarine zest and a note of bread crust alongside a firm, persistent pelage. An almond note closes the sharp finish.
Aromas of rose and orange oil dominate the nose, while the palate brings more tart nectarine and blossom notes. Medium bodied, with balanced acidity, this wine finishes with a slightly fuzzy texture.
Aromas of rose hips and raspberry jam are sweet and simple, but friendly in nature. There isn't much texture or layering to this Garnacha, but the fruit is juicy and tastes like raspberry and plum skins. Tight but right, with mild astringency that can be offset by food.
Aromas of rose petal, perfumed berry and exotic spice lead the nose. It's radiant, with wonderful intensity and elegance, delivering ripe red cherry, raspberry compote, mineral, licorice, baking spice and a hint of mint alongside a backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins and edgy acidity. Despite the full structure and youthful tension, it has a remarkably silky, supple texture. Drink 2018–2032.
Aromas of rose petal, violet, red berry and a whiff of baking spice lead the nose on this luminous red. On the accessible palate, notes of clove and chopped herb accent the wild cherry core. It's balanced, with bright acidity and velvety tannins. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of rose petals and fresh-hoed earth come to the fore as this wine opens, followed by fine-grained, intense tannins and savory wooded notes. Black pepper, red cherry, sea salt and dried herb pop at different times. It's still tight, so let this wine open in the glass or decant; better yet, cellar through 2023.
Aromas of rose, berries and baking spices lead the nose while the savory palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper, licorice and tobacco. Firm tannins and bright acidity balance this out.
Aromas of rose, blue flower, wild berry and a hint of forest floor lead the way along with a balsamic note. The extremely ripe palate offers raspberry compote, licorice and a green note of powdered sage alongside bracing tannins that leave a gripping, drying finish. Give the tannins a few years to unwind then drink.
Aromas of rose, crushed herb, red berry and a balsamic note take shape in the glass. Elegant, fresh and poised, the palate offers black raspberry, red cherry baking spice and a hint of licorice framed in youthful but polished tannins. Drink 2020–2028.
Aromas of rose, forest floor, toast and dark berry lead the nose on this straightforward, vibrant red. The racy palate delivers tart cherry, fresh raspberry, white pepper and clove alongside brisk acidity. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of rose, fragrant blue flower, pressed powder, perfumed berry and a whiff of leather emerge on this delicious red. The smooth, succulent palate delivers a great depth of flavor, including juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper, star anise and chopped herb. Silky tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of rose, red berry, espresso, grilled herb and toast lead the nose. The taut palate offers crunchy red cherry, raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside tightly wound, assertive tannins. It closes on a note of roasted coffee bean.
Aromas of rose, violet, perfumed berry and a whiff of leather lead the nose. The bright, accessible palate doles out juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and a hint of star anise while supple tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of rose, violet, sour cherry and baking spice make a promising initial impression but the palate is on the lean side offering raw red berry, clove, sage and a hint of tobacco. Grainy tannins leave an astringent finish. Let the tannins soften up for another few years and then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of roses, pepper and spices make this an enticing wine. On the palate, it is ripe, soft, full-bodied and rich, lacking acidity, but otherwise classic Gewürztraminer.
Aromas of rubber and floor wax lack fruit and nuance. This has a high-acid, granular mouthfeel that lacks full cohesion. Waxy, salty flavors crowd out primary fruit flavors, while this finishes briny, high in acid and salty.
Aromas of rubber band, smoky berry and plum come with herbal, rustic overtones. This feels grabby and tannic, while punchy acidity releases angular black-fruit flavors. A roasted, meaty tasting finish brings the heat and feels aggressive.
Aromas of rubber, coffee, lemon peel and cherry are good but lack some cohesion. This Cabernet Franc-Syrah-Garnacha blend feels lively and fresh, but also choppy and tannic. Dark blackened flavors of cassis and black cherry finish toasty and peppery with a gamy accent.
Aromas of rubber, leather and herbal berry suggest ripeness issues, but in the mouth this is upstanding, with mild acidic cut. Flavors of leathery berry filter into an earthy, slightly muddled tasting finish with warmth and weight.
Aromas of rubber, toasted herb and desiccated dark fruit are quite mute and reticent. On the palate, the structural elements are prominent, with juicy acids and astringent tannins framing the dark berry flavor.
Aromas of saddle leather and sour cherry are followed by lightly styled tart cherry flavors and gritty tannins.
Aromas of sage, espresso and green, savory herbs are at the fore on this lightly colored blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with the fruit notes in the background. The coffee and cherry flavors are elegant yet rich, with an outrageously long, expressive finish. It's all about subtlety, refinement and detail with plenty of each but needing some time for them all to meld together.
Aromas of saline and paper mill are not the best or most fresh. It is also a touch out of shape and starting to get old. But the wine's briny citrus and melon flavors are solid, while a pickled tasting finish closes it out.
Aromas of saline solution and sawdust accent generic citrus and apple aromas. On the palate, this is fresh and citrusy. A blast of sharp lemon, apple and quince flavors come before a lightweight but oaky finish.
Aromas of saline, apple cider and oak suggest moderate overall quality. This has a creamy, heavy mouthfeel and flavors of melon, apple and caramel. An oaky finish feels resiny and tastes woody and sweet.
Aromas of saline, citrus fruit, passion fruit and mustard are pithy and show pyrazines. Following the nose, this is citric in feel, with orange peel and grapefruit flavors. A grassy, slightly bitter finish is snappy and suggests fresh scallion.
Aromas of sandalwood and Middle Eastern spices feed into a creamy palate with little to no acidic cut. Flavors of caramel and milk chocolate rest on one side of a flavor void, while herbal, green notes reside on the other side, while the finish is resiny and lactic.
Aromas of sandalwood, curry, cumin and toast rise up from the glass, while the cranberry/black cherry fruit leaves an impression of rock at its core. Immaculate and very young, this suggests a wine whose complexity is still sheathed in the primary, fruit-driven flavors of the vintage. Drink 2017–2025.
Aromas of sandalwood, violets and berries give this one an elevated, magnetic nose, while the palate is lush, big and full of black fruit and masculine tannins. A dark, minerally style from high-elevation vineyards with a coating of vanilla and caramel on the long finish.
Aromas of savory herbs, mineral, exotic spice and red fruit are followed by fruit flavors that are surprisingly restrained considering the warmth of the vintage. Tart acidity livens it up. It's green for the variety but still brings enjoyment.
Aromas of savory leather, wood and baked berry fruits lead to a fresh, well-built palate with fine tannins and integrated but potent acidity. Toasty, blackened plum and berry flavors finish with a coating of oak flavor as well as coffee and chocolate notes. Drink through 2028.
Aromas of savory spice and black fruits are mild. This is wide on the palate, with a touch of acidic scour. Blackberry, sweet black currant and chocolate are the key flavors, followed by modest spice and toast on the finish. The wine is good, but low on complexity and character.
Aromas of sawdust, coconut and espresso lead the way while the palate offers raw sour cherry and just a hint of cinnamon. However, this completely lacks fruit richness and has an abrupt finish.
Aromas of sawdust, espresso and ripe dark-skinned fruit lead the nose. The plush palate offers dried black cherry, coffee, toast, licorice and black pepper alongside evolved tannins. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit and freshness.
Aromas of sawdust, oak, espresso and dark cooking spice lead the nose. The palate is somewhat muddled, showing ripe black cherry, raspberry, sweet and sour sauce and a hint of bitter chocolate alongside robust tannins and rather soft acidity.
Aromas of sawdust, toasted oak, espresso and spice lead the nose on this blend of 90% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and Colorino. The palate offers black cherry, mint and eucalyptus notes alongside bracing tannins. Evident oak muffles the juicy, ripe-fruit notes.
Aromas of sawdust, weedy underbrush and a hint of licorice lead the way and carry over to the palate. It lacks fruit richness, and you'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate.
Aromas of sawmill and burnt wood are dominant. This feels resiny and sticky. Flavors of spiced apple are smothered by heavy-handed oak, while this is flat as a board and resiny tasting on the finish.
Aromas of scorched earth, baked fruit, roasted coffee bean, leather and underbrush take shape in the glass. The warm palate reflects the heat of the vintage, delivering a core of dried berry accented with notes of licorice and lightly toasted oak. Assertive tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of scorched earth, chopped mint, menthol, dried herb and mature berry lead the nose. The robust palate offers raisin, licorice, clove and espresso alongside evident alcohol. Aggressive tannins leave an astringent, tongue-drying close.
Aromas of scorched earth, coffee, plum and clove lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The round, soft palate doles out blackberry, black raspberry, licorice and a bitter note of walnut skin alongside velvety tannins. Drink soon to capture the fruit richness.
Aromas of scorched earth, game and a whiff of farmyard lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, leather, anise and sage alongside bracing but fleeting tannins. It finishes abruptly, leaving a rather astringent close.
Aromas of scorched earth, game, burned rubber and a funky whiff of barnyard waft out of the glass and carry over to the dense palate along with raisin, fig, licorice and a gamy note. It's rustic and extremely evolved with an abrupt, bitter finish.
Aromas of scorched earth, game, dried rose petal and a whiff of barnyard lead the nose. The aromas follow through to the solid palate together with overripe black cherry, bitter walnut and a confectionary note alongside grainy tannins. It's a bit rustic but still has an earthy appeal.
Aromas of scorched earth, game, truffle and mature plum come together in the glass. The ripe palate offers dried blackberry, mature cherry, anise and almond alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of scorched earth, grilled porcini, black plum and a confectionary note lead on this robust red. The hearty palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, toasted oak, anisette, coconut and oak-driven spices alongside the heat of evident alcohol. Velvety tannins carry the warm, ripe flavors.
Aromas of scorched earth, leather, ground pepper, porcini mushroom and mature berry lead the nose. The aromas carry over to the ripe palate along with raspberry jam, vanilla and chocolate. It's already accessible. Drink through 2023.
Aromas of scorched earth, leather, mature black fruit and a touch of graphite lead the nose on this full-bodied, straightforward wine. The solid palate offers up plum and dried black cherry alongside astringent tannins that give it a clipped finish.
Aromas of scorched earth, leather, underbrush and cherries marinated in spirits emerge on this full-bodied red, along with a whiff of menthol. The firm chewy palate shows both opulence and freshness offering blackberry jam, baked plum, pipe tobacco and licorice alongside a backbone of velvety tannins. Drink 2017–2024.
Aromas of scorched earth, leather, vanilla, spiced plum and grilled herb take shape in the glass. The warm palate offers dried black cherry and licorice alongside extremely astringent tannins. This is aging preciously and the fruit is already dried up, which makes the warmth of alcohol noticeable on the close.
Aromas of scorched earth, mature black-skinned fruit, blue flower, toast and Oriental spice lead the way on this full-bodied wine. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, licorice and ground pepper set against a backdrop of fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of scorched earth, mature dark fruit, dark cooking spice and a whiff of leather emerge on this structured wine. The brooding palate delivers black cherry, raspberry, clove, baking spice, anise and chopped herb alongside firm, ripe tannins and fresh acidity. Give it a few more years to fully open. Drink after 2019.
Aromas of scorched earth, overripe black-skinned fruit and a whiff of game lead the nose. The palate is fresher, offering fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, dark cooking spices and a hint of menthol. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide support, while a tobacco note signals the close.
Aromas of scorched earth, pressed rose and a funky note of game lead the nose. The lean, diluted palate offers raisin and a hint of dried black cherry alongside gritty, fleeting tannins.
Aromas of scorched earth, prune and dark cooking spice lead the nose while the mature palate shows raisin, dried berry, leather and a hint of anise. Smooth but fleeting tannins indicate this has seen better days. Drink now.
Aromas of scorched earth, toasted oak, espresso and a gamy note lead the nose. The extracted palate offers blackberry extract, bitter sage and crushed black pepper alongside drying but fleeting tannins.
Aromas of scorched earth, truffle, woodland berry, sage and a whiff of cured meat unfold on this firm red while ripe black cherry, raspberry jam, licorice, grilled herb and clove wrap around the palate. Tightly wound tannins support the savory flavors.
Aromas of scorched earth, underbrush, grilled porcini and black plum emerge. The round, concentrated palate doles out dried black cherry, raspberry compote, anise and nutmeg alongside velvety tannins. Thanks to the juicy fruit, you can barely detect the warmth of alcohol on the close.
Aromas of scorched earth, underbrush, red berry and a whiff of cellar floor lead the nose. On the firm palate, ground pepper, tobacco and sage accent sour cherry while brooding tannins offer firm support.
Aromas of scorched earth, underbrush, spicy plum, allspice and graphite lead the nose. On the palate, notes of cracked pepper and clove accent the mature blackberry, raspberry and fig flavors. It's balanced with well-integrated tannins and finishes on a note of bitter almond. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of scorched soil, toasted hazelnut, dried black cherry and an earthy whiff of game carry over to the palate along with a note of bitter sage. Firm tannins provide support.
Aromas of scorched soil, truffle, ripe black-skinned fruit and cedar lead the nose of this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The concentrated palate delivers ripe black cherries, blackberries, orange zest, grilled herbs, clove and tobacco, while firm, velvety tannins provide support. A licorice note closes the finish.
Aromas of scrambled eggs are cidery and flat. This feels soft and unfocused, with low acidity and a mild bead. Green flavors of lettuce and herbs are more salad-like than fruity, while the finish is soft and lacking in edge.
Aromas of sea salt, olive brine, smoked meat, herb and earth lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that run warm on the finish. There are plenty of good things going on but they don't seem to entirely come together.
Aromas of sea salt, pineapple and citrus start this lively Assyrtiko. It offers a fresh mineral character rounded by tropical fruit. Friendly and not fussy.
Aromas of sea shell, green melon and papaya are a touch briny. This feels good but simple, with no detectable oak. A flavor profile that leans towards generic citrus and apple offers nothing new or different on the finish.
Aromas of shaved balsam wood, aged cheese and spice accent berry tones on a nose that's far from blowsy. In the mouth, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Carmenère is ripe, rich and a touch soft. Heady, toasted dark-fruit flavors of blackberry and plum finish spicy and ripe. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of Sherry and barrel resin are all you get from this wood-fermented, oxidized number. While neither foul nor severe, the all-wood nature of this is overly dominant and not pleasant enough to stand on its own.
Aromas of slightly overripe fruit lead to just off-dry fruit flavors. It lacks a sense of cohesion.
Aromas of slightly stewed fruit, steeped berry, spice and menthol unfold in the glass. The firm palate delivers juicy cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice, ground pepper and a mint note while bracing tannins and racy acidity provide the backbone. This needs a few more years to calm down and will continue to age well for a decade or more. Drink 2018–2026.
Aromas of smoke and sweet apple introduce an intensely flavored palate that's full of ripe yellow peach, waxy flower and fresh fennel. Off-dry and bold in structure, it finishes with a hint of lanolin and a lingering minerality.
Aromas of smoke are upfront, with underlying aromas of dried strawberry, prune and mushroom. The smokiness continues on the palate, with prune and fig adding fruit tones. In feel, this wine is disjointed, with adhesive tannins and a lack of lift.
Aromas of smoke, bacon, mature black-skinned fruit and allspice waft out of the glass. The aromas follow through to the dense, monolithic palate, along with oak extract, vanilla, and a confectionary note.
Aromas of smoke, char and spice entice the nose of this zippy, medium-bodied Lemberger. The palate is crisp, offering tart black cherry and blackberry flavors fringed delicately with tannins. Finishes long, with a delicate floral note.
Aromas of smoke, charred earth, dark spice and black-skinned berry lift out of the glass. The concentrated firmly structured palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry extract, ground pepper and a hint of tobacco framed in fine-grained tannins. Drink 2019–2029.
Aromas of smoke, grilled herb, scorched earth and eucalyptus lead the nose. While it shows the heat of the vintage, it also has elegance, offering dried black cherry, fig licorice and clove. A hint of almond wraps up the finish while velvety tannins provide supple support. Drink soon to capture fruit and freshness.
Aromas of smoke, herb, barrel spice and dark fruit lead to medium-bodied, supple fruit flavors. It doesn't all seem to come together at present, with the wood seeming primary.
Aromas of smoke, matchstick, mineral and red fruit are followed by lightly styled cranberry flavors that winnow toward the finish.
Aromas of smoke, sawdust and herbs are followed by lighter-styled cherry and cranberry flavors with spice accents.
Aromas of smoke, underbrush, espresso and grilled herb lead the nose on this blend of Nero di Troia and Aglianico. The palate offers dried black cherry, anisette, coffee and toast alongside chewy tannins.
Aromas of smoke, vanilla, green herbs and spice are followed by generous cherry and barrel flavors. The wood juts out but it still brings enjoyment.
Aromas of smoke, vanilla, pencil box and green herb are followed by red fruit and medicinal flavors. Floral notes persist on the finish.
Aromas of smoked cherry, plum, tomato and apple skin fit the bill for the region. The fresh palate shows weight, with plum, currant and dry spice flavors. On the finish, this wine takes on a loamy weight and a modest raisin note.
Aromas of smoked meat, mesquite, green olive and tire rubber meld with barrel spice accents. It's soft and supple in feel with abundant savory flavors—an interesting wine that has some edge.
Aromas of smoky cigar, toasted note and black cherry open the bouquet of this bright expression from Montalcino. The wine shows good density and a tonic, crisp feel on the close.
Aromas of smoky new wood and blackberries set the scene for a wine that brings out a soft, supple texture, followed by fresh black fruits and light structure. The second wine of Château Corbin Michotte is attractively fresh, smoky and ready to drink.
Aromas of smoky peach, citrus blossom and crushed stone are enticing and inviting. The palate of this unoaked Chardonnay is restrained and green apple focused, with a refreshing lemon-lime vein running down the backbone.
Aromas of snap peas and freshly cut grass lead to tangy lemon and grapefruit flavors in this medium-bodied, crisply balanced wine. It's certainly lively and will cut through the thickest fettuccine Alfredo.
Aromas of snap peas and minerals come in front of grapefruit, apple and lemon flavors. This wine has both a stony, crisp core as well as a plump, chewy texture. The finish is at once tangy and lean, but also fairly driven. Not an easy wine to wrap your arms around and assess, but not bad either.
Aromas of soft pear, peach, flower and citrus are followed by layers of tropical fruit, citrus and pear on the palate. It's round, viscous mouthfeel should enable it to stand up to robust poultry and seafood dishes.
Aromas of Sorrentine lemon and pink grapefruit are followed by peach and mineral. This Greco di Tufo is easygoing and straightforward and offers a natural ability to pair with light, lunchtime recipes.
Aromas of sour berry, blue flower and leather emerge on this medium-bodied red. The palate is raw and lean, showing unripe cherry, sage and grainy, aggressive tannins that segue into an astringent finish.
Aromas of sour cherry and cooked strawberries lead the way in this tart, herbal Pinot Noir. It's lean and crisp, failing to deliver much in the way of pleasure, although there's nothing technically wrong with it.
Aromas of sour cherry, raisin, herb and a hint of scorched earth lead the nose. On the straightforward rather lean palate, ground pepper accents dried cranberry and pomegranate alongside lithe tannins.
Aromas of Spanish broom and peach lead the nose. The vibrant, refreshing palate offers crisp green apple, Bartlett pear and lime alongside bracing acidity tempered by small but invigorating bubbles.
Aromas of Spanish broom, acacia and oak lead the nose. The vibrant palate offers yellow apple, citrus, toasted hazel nut and mineral alongside lively acidity.
Aromas of Spanish broom, acacia and white tree fruit take shape in the glass. On the palate, crisp acidity balances mature golden apple, pear, mineral and dried Mediterranean herb.
Aromas of Spanish broom, citrus blossom, ripe orchard fruit and oak slowly emerge on this. Oak carries over to the linear palate along with toast, yellow apple and nectarine zest. A bitter almond note closes the drying finish.
Aromas of Spanish broom, honeysuckle and a yeasty note lead the nose of this Sicilian sparkler from Mount Etna. The palate offers ripe apple, candied citrus and bitter walnuts alongside persistent bubbles and zesty acidity.
Aromas of Spanish broom, ripe apricot and yellow peach lead the nose and carry over to the round palate. Fresh acidity accompanies the juicy fruit flavors while an almond note closes the finish.
Aromas of Spanish broom, ripe pear and a yeasty whiff of toasted bread crust come together in the glass. The savory palate offers mature yellow apple, bitter almond, white pepper and a saline note framed in tangy acidity.
Aromas of Spanish broom, tropical fruit and graphite take the lead. The smooth, creamy palate offers white peach, melon, almond and mineral brightened by crisp acidity. Enjoy now through 2016.
Aromas of Spanish broom, yellow apple, pear, toast and French oak lead to an elegant if slightly lean palate. A mineral vein adds interest while fresh acidity brightens the finish.
Aromas of spearmint gum along with a weird coating of oak create a challenging nose. This is high in acidity, to the point of feeling shearing. Sour herbal plum flavors finish rough and bracing.
Aromas of spice and asphalt lend crispness to core blackberry scents. This blend of the three C's—Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc—is jammy in feel, with soft, easy tannins. Raspberry, plum, cinnamon and cocoa flavors finish mild except for a touch of heat. Drink now through 2018.
Aromas of spice and toast are echoed in the sweetly woody palate. This is an elegant wine, soft, full and only just crisp. It has the roundness and richness of a Chardonnay, finished with ripe yellow plums and a tangerine zest.
Aromas of spice cake, dark plum, black tea and dried red rose characterize this austere Aglianico del Vulture. The wine has impressive thickness and succulence but also offers ethereal notes of tar, resin and old spice. Pair it with lamb couscous or any meat dish with curry or cumin seasonings.
Aromas of spice cake, licorice, moist earth, pie cherries and kirsch, with flavors that follow suit. A luxurious wine, bursting with flavor, tannic and just a bit pruney. This is a love it or hate it style; you pick.
Aromas of spice, apricot, and Creamsicle are followed by full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors, showing some warmth on the finish.
Aromas of spice, lees and ripe pear are followed by creamy feeling tropical fruit flavors, with pineapple in the lead. It doesn't quite all come together but provides plenty of intrigue.
Aromas of spice, macerated cherry, vanilla and blackberry lead to jammy, sweet-seeming fruit flavors. It provides easy-drinking appeal, with grainy tannins backing it all up.
Aromas of spice, red fruit and milk chocolate are followed by an opulent palate of fruit and barrel flavors. It appeals on every level.
Aromas of spice, vanilla and wood are stronger than this wine's fruit scents. Pure and lush on the palate, this is showing fine balance. Flavors of baking spices, caramel, vanilla and black fruits finish mildly and subtly, with mocha notes and good length. Drink this ripe Cabernet blend through 2019.
Aromas of spiced apples, lemon, mustard seed and mineral make for an attractive nose, but the palate is a tad tart, featuring mostly lemon, green apple and citrus rind. In general, it's light, lean and probably better as an aperitif than as an accompaniment to fine food.
Aromas of spiced applesauce and minerals mark the nose. A solid palate with mild acidity yields pithy citrus and nectarine flavors, while the finish is short and hollow, with a fleshy weight.
Aromas of spiced berry, coffee and balsam wood start slow and pick up intensity. This is powerful but focused from front to back, with hard but honest tannins that will soften with time. Pure, potent flavors of cherry, berry and chocolate come with tons of spicy, peppery oak and all sorts of textural depth. Drink from 2015–2028.
Aromas of spiced blackberry, tar, wood smoke and herbs are complex and on target. This Syrah (with 10% Cab Franc) feels big and wide, with screechy acidity and rubbery tannins. Dark peppery berry flavors are a bit salty, while this is compact on the finish. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of spiced blueberry, blue flowers, cedar, tobacco and grilled herbs come together on this blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. The palate delivers juicy blackberry, mature plum, white pepper, clove and grilled rosemary. It's young but well balanced, with velvety tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of spiced blueberry, grilled herbs, cooking spice and a whiff of leather lead the nose of this blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The savory palate offers ripe plum, crushed black cherry, black pepper and mint alongside polished tannins. A licorice note marks the close.
Aromas of spiced cherry and cassis are schisty and belie this Cabernet-heavy wine's age. A narrow palate with firm tannins and not much give sets up flavors of oak, lemon peel, plum and berry fruits. A lasting finish with deep berry flavors and a topping of oak doesn't lose steam. Drink through 2025.
Aromas of spiced fig, resin, tobacco, grilled sage and underbrush lead the nose. The focused palate offers dark cherries, baking spices and savory herbs alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity. A smoky mineral note heralds the close. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of spiced plum and chopped mint lead the nose and carry over to the brawny, one-dimensional palate along with vanilla, toast, coffee and liquor-soaked cherry. Dusty tannins dry out the finish while the heat of searing alcohol that throws it off balance. Drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of spiced plum and exotic spice lead the nose on this robust wine. On the palate, scorching alcohol overwhelms dried black cherry and licorice, throwing the wine completely off balance. Astringent tannins and a green note of powdered sage create an extremely bitter finish.
Aromas of spiced plum, coffee, leather and underbrush come together in the glass. The mature palate offers dried black cherry, tar, graphite, smoke and tobacco alongside dry tannins that leave an astringent finish.
Aromas of spiced plum, coffee, toast and vanilla lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate delivers dried black cherry, roasted coffee bean, black pepper and licorice alongside brooding, tongue-drying tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of spiced plum, dark-skinned berry, leather and a balsamic note waft out of the glass. The firm palate delivers juicy wild cherry, white pepper, game and aniseed alongside firm but polished tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2015–2020.
Aromas of spiced plum, dark berry, leather, game and moist soil waft out of the glass. The earthy palate offers up dried black cherry, truffle, grilled sage and ground black pepper alongside drying, rather fleeting tannins. It finishes on a licorice note.
Aromas of spiced plum, forest floor, vanilla and mocha lead the nose of this smooth, concentrated wine. The hearty palate doles out concentrated red cherry, fig, clove, baking spice, tobacco and a carob note alongside velvety tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
Aromas of spiced plum, mocha, underbrush and a confectionary note come together in the glass. The rich, concentrated palate offers dried black cherries, chocolate, vanilla and baking spice alongside velvety tannins.
Aromas of spiced plum, pipe tobacco, French oak and a whiff of pressed purple flower slowly take shape on this firmly structured red. The palate is youthfully austere, offering dried black cherry, pomegranate, green tea and clove framed in fresh acidity and bracing fine-grained tannins that give the finish a tight grip. An espresso note wraps up the close.
Aromas of spiced plum, purple flower, leather and truffle lead the nose on this informal wine. The solid palate offers dried cherry and a hint of licorice alongside grippy tannins that clench the finish.
Aromas of spiced plum, tilled earth, new leather and a hint of baking spice lift out of the glass. The big chewy palate shows fleshy black cherry, chocolate and a hint of pipe tobacco while velvety tannins provide the framework. It's already approachable but will offer plenty of enjoyment for several years or more.
Aromas of spiced plum, underbrush and exotic spice evolve in the glass. The rich, round palate offers blackberries, black cherries, espresso, licorice and grilled herbs alongside smooth but still chewy tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of spiced plum, vanilla, French oak and blue flower lift from the glass. The firm palate offers the taste of espresso, coconut, star anise and wild cherry set against bracing close-grained tannins that give the finish grip.
Aromas of spiced prune, tilled earth, leather and clove lead the nose. The palate delivers black currant, dried blackberry, raw cranberry, nutmeg and grilled herb along with bracing tannins and brisk acidity.
Aromas of spiced strawberry pie and wet slate emerge on this wine from a brand that seeks to offer quality at affordable prices. The palate shows medium-intense cranberry fruit, with a hint of anise spice. It's fairly straightforward and ideal for nightly sipping.
Aromas of spiced tomato, clove and rubber gloves don't click or suggest much quality. A cloying, sugary palate with mucky berry flavors is less than stellar, as is a sticky finish that tastes like strawberry jam.
Aromas of spicy but sticky ripe black fruits feed into a creamy, almost gooey palate. Notes of clove, cinnamon and brown sugar are amplified alongside candied, jammy berry flavors.
Aromas of spicy cherry, mixed bramble fruit, flower and turmeric start out mild, but become explosive and rich as the wine sits in the glass. The powerhouse palate shows intense but finessed concentration, with succulent cherry, herb and cocoa flavors that are bound by chewy tannins.
Aromas of spicy oak and dried berry fruits lead to a clampy, rubbery palate. Plum and berry flavors are slightly saucy, while the finish, which is still fresh for a 2009, is tannic and pulling.
Aromas of spicy plum and black cherry lead the nose. On the fresh, savory palate, accents of white pepper and clove add depth to layers of ripe, red berry. Supple tannins support the juicy fruit flavors.
Aromas of spicy plum, ripe berry, tilled soil and brown cooking spice meld together in the glass. The palate delivers dried black cherry, raisin, fig, clove and cracked black pepper alongside robust tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of spoiled cider and mustard don't cut it. This is spritzy and acidic on the palate. Flavors of cactus pad and citrus are pithy and green, and on the finish the pyrazines are jacked way up.
Aromas of spring blossom and green apple lift out of the glass. Silky and bright, the off-dry palate presents ripe pear, white peach and candied nectarine zest alongside a creamy mousse and fresh acidity.
Aromas of spring blossom and yellow stone fruit delicately lead the way on this refreshing white. The vibrant palate offers raw peach, lime and a hint of almond alongside racy acidity. A saline note closes the tangy finish.
Aromas of spring blossom, pear and a whiff of bread crust eventually emerge on this delicately scented wine. Crisp and clean, the effervescent palate evokes ripe yellow apple, white peach and a citrus note alongside vibrant acidity. Elegant, continuous bubbles dance through to the dry finish.
Aromas of spring flower, Mediterranean brush, wild herb and tropical fruit lead the nose on this expressive white. The round juicy palate offers pineapple and yellow stone fruit, while a hint of chopped mint closes the finish.
Aromas of spring flowers and fresh orchard fruit lead the nose on this bright, fun sparkler. The palate doles out green apple, pear and citrus alongside zesty acidity and invigorating bubbles.
Aromas of spring wild flower and white stone fruit lead the nose on this straightforward offering. The simple palate offers yellow apple and pear alongside brisk bubbles and crisp acidity.
Aromas of spring wild flowers come together with a subtle hint of peach. The savory palate delivers citrus, grapefruit and a crisp pear along with a note of white almond.
Aromas of spring wildflower and white stone fruit lead the nose while the foaming, off-dry palate doles out creamy yellow pear and candied citrus peel. Bright acidity lifts the rich flavors.
Aromas of stalky berries are bold but a touch murky and gritty. This blend spent more than two years in oak, so it tastes chocolaty and rooty, with blackberry notes. A ripe, stewy finish runs short and toasty, with a raisiny aftertaste.
Aromas of stalky blackberry and earthy, mulched leaves are a bit strained. This feels tight and narrow, with saucy black plum, black cherry and raspberry flavors. This shows modest depth but is overall appealing.
Aromas of stalky underbrush, wet earth and a whiff of truffle lift out of the glass. The simple, vivacious palate offers small red berries and a hint of mocha alongside vigorous acidity and frail tannins.
Aromas of standard berry fruit have a cheesy accent, while the palate is on the flat side in terms of feel and flavors. With respect to flavor, expect mildly herbal berry tastes and cherry tomato. Snappy on the finish but stretched thin.
Aromas of starched sheets and lanolin show a hint of apple. This feels rather lean and similar to soda: there isn't much body to it. Tropical melony flavors are oaky, and the finish turns downright woody and sweet like canned pineapple.
Aromas of steeped berry, baking spice, Alpine herb and crushed stone emerge in the glass. The structured palate offers dried cherry, fig, licorice and powdered herb framed in assertive tannins that leave a firm, astringent finish. Give the tannins another year or two then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of steeped cherries, ripe plums, scorched earth and a medley of cooking spices lead the nose on this round, rich wine. The lush palate doles out ripe black cherries, raspberry jam, licorice and a dash of black pepper while velvety tannins lend finesse.
Aromas of steeped plum, ripe black currant and a whiff of grilled Mediterranean herb lead the nose. The round, concentrated palate doles out fleshy blackberry, ripe black cherry, ground pepper and anise alongside ripe, chewy tannins.
Aromas of steeped prune and raspberry jam mix with a note of used leather and chopped herb. The robust but evolved palate offers dried sour cherry, raisin, ground pepper and espresso alongside the heat of evident alcohol. Grainy tannins leave a bracing finish. The fruit has almost dried up completely so drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of steeped prune, resin and a whiff of cocoa lead the nose. The dense, simple palate offers baked black plum, black cherry and a light confectionary note alongside soft tannins. Drink now.
Aromas of stewed berry fruits and damp leaves lack freshness but are not spoiled. This Garnacha-based blend feels thick and resiny, almost to the point of syrupy. Creamy oaky stewed berry flavors finish with an herbal hint and sticky tannins.
Aromas of stewed berry fruits, olive and herbs combine to form a soupy bouquet. This is fairly racy, with a touch of spiky tartaric acid creating mild astringency. Stewy, roasted flavors of black fruits and carob finish herbal.
Aromas of stewed black fruits and compost are leafy and a touch green. This has a wide-bodied mouthfeel and grabby tannins. Medicinal plum and berry flavors taste minty and herbal on the finish.
Aromas of stewed fruit, leather, tilled soil and a whiff of game take shape in the glass. The austere palate shows bright red berry, ground white pepper and menthol alongside chewy tannins and brisk acidity. It has the breeding to evolve and improve through 2025 or so.
Aromas of stewed fruit, prune and hay lead the nose on this brawny wine. The savory but monolithic palate offers dried cherry, fig, licorice and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of stewed fruit, prune and toast lead the nose. The firm palate is still rather closed but reveals dried black cherry, fig, black pepper, clove and coffee alongside astringent, grainy tannins.
Aromas of stewed plum, dried hay, toasted oak, espresso and game lead the nose. The palate delivers succulent wild cherry, fig, baking spice, tea leaf and pipe tobacco balanced by polished tannins. It's already accessible. Enjoy through 2019.
Aromas of stewed plum, game and leather lead the nose. Tightly wound, the concentrated palate offers toast, espresso, fleshy black cherry marinated in spirits and licorice. Aggressive, raspy tannins generate an abrupt finish.
Aromas of stewed plum, leather, truffle and dark spice lead the nose. The full-bodied palate offers dried cherry, orange zest and a hint of licorice alongside assertive tannins that leave a firm finish. Give the tannins another year or two to unwind a little then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of stewed plums are offset with more rustic fragrances reminiscent of barnyard, wet fur and meat juices. The palate conveys red cherry and spice notes but astringent tannins give this wine an abrupt finish. It's tired and lean.
Aromas of stewed prune and fig follow through to the evolved palate along with raisin, licorice and a green note of powdered sage. Austere, astringent tannins leave a raspy finish. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol.
Aromas of stewed prune, grilled pepper and roasted coffee bean join in this blend of 45% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Franc. The evolved palate shows date, vanilla and coconut. Drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of stewed prune, tobacco, resin and menthol lead the noses. The full-bodied, one-dimensional palate is rather evolved, offering raisin and clove alongside close-grained but not very persistent tannins.
Aromas of stewed red currants and blackberries mingle with sweet tobacco and vanilla on the nose. These notes carry to the medium-bodied palate that shows a mild concentration of flavors over a buttery lactic feel.
Aromas of stone-fruit pit and citrus peel are punchy. This blend of Viura and Tempranillo Blanco feels solid. Pithy grapefruit and salty flavors carry over to the finish of this everyday white.
Aromas of stone fruit and pineapple lead the nose. The vibrant palate doles out juicy yellow peach, nectarine zest and a hint of nutmeg. It's nicely balanced with tangy acidity.
Aromas of stone fruit, melon and almond skin lend this Procanico-Verdello-Grechetto blend a sophisticated touch and the wine delivers nutty nuances in the mouth.
Aromas of stone fruits and citrus are dusty and nice; so is the mouthfeel, which is fresh but shows texture and body. Watermelon, nectarine and citrus flavors finish slightly bitter but within reason.
Aromas of straw, dusty apple and mild citrus are clean as a whole. Citric acidity lends zest to an otherwise chunky, pithy palate. Flavors of citrus fruits and apple finish fresh, pithy and with a note of orange peel.
Aromas of strawberries and olallieberries seasoned with mace, allspice and savory woods greet the nose on this blend of Syrah and Grenache by Mark Chesebro, former winemaker for Bernardus. The palate shows black cherry, cedar and tobacco, proving quite flavorful, structured by sticky tannins and a striking acidity.
Aromas of strawberries, wet stones and hay follow through to a very fresh palate with crisp acidity, little tannin and a diffuse berry character. Quite a nice package, perfect for pizza or lasagna.
Aromas of strawberry and rhubarb pie characterize this wine, one of the more fruit-forward Pinot Noirs of the leaner, more nuanced 2011 vintage. Those flavors persist on the palate, with well-rounded red fruit making a soft entry and smooth transition through the sipping experience. It finishes more quickly than some of its cohorts.
Aromas of strawberry sherbet are followed by sweet candy-shop flavors on the palate. Chill it thoroughly before drinking. Screwcap.
Aromas of strawberry, espresso, dried herb and toast lead the nose. The palate offers dried red berry, rhubarb, dill and coffee bean alongside smooth but rather fleeting tannins. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of strawberry, plum, wild flower and a whiff of spice waft out of the glass. The simple, lively palate offers fleshy black cherry, ripe raspberry and a hint of baking spice alongside soft tannins. Drink soon.
Aromas of strawberry, tangerine zest, pastry, aromatic herb and toasted walnut mingle in the glass and follow through to the creamy palate along with ripe red apple and pear. It's beautifully balanced with fresh acidity and a soft, elegant mousse.
Aromas of struck match, seared lemon, roasted apples and a touch of butterscotch prove clean and not overpowering. This is a very straight-ahead Chardonnay, with lemon fruit, chalk and noticeable oak influence.
Aromas of sugar cookie and apple preserves entice on this ripe, rich spätlese. It's ethereally light on the palate, but deeply concentrated, with honey and peach flavors braced by soft pink-grapefruit acidity. It finishes elegantly, with a slick of honeycomb and lavender perfume. Drink now for its floral, fruity decadence.
Aromas of sugared plum and other blue fruit take the lead followed by cocoa and herbs. The coffee and plum flavors are soft and sweet, going down easy.
Aromas of sugared plums, herbs and black currants lead to black- and blue-fruit flavors that are surprisingly soft. One misses the tannins Cabernet is known for but it makes up for it elsewhere.
Aromas of sulfur and swimming pool blow off and leave citrusy notes. Pyrazinic flavors of bell pepper suggest barely ripe (maybe underripe) grapes. That essence is confirmed on a finish via white pepper and bell pepper flavors.
Aromas of summer orchard fruit and citrus blossom lead the nose on this bright, direct white. The linear palate doles out yellow apple, tangerine zest and a hint of mineral alongside brisk acidity.
Aromas of sun-baked earth, pressed iris, wild berry, underbrush and a whiff of game lead the nose. The round, open palate delivers fleshy black cherry, ripe plum, ground pepper, leather and anise alongside velvety tannins. It's already accessible but will hold up well for the next few years. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of sun-dried tomatoes, coffee, cinnamon, toast, blackberries and currants introduce a wine that drinks light and fruity. Some pretty flavors here, with lots of spice and soft tannins. Nothing to write home about, but nice enough for a dry red table wine.
Aromas of sun-kissed grapefruit and berries waft from this concentrated mélange of fruit and flowers. Off dry on the palate, it's punchy and fresh, balancing bright, lemony acidity against a core of apple and pear flavors. The finish is marked by hints of exotic spice and tea tannins.
Aromas of sunbaked earth, mature berry, leather, cooking spice and game unfold in the glass. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry extract, anise and leather alongside rather austere, fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of sunbaked earth, mature black-skinned fruit, menthol and a whiff of exotic spice unfold in the glass. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, pomegranate mocha and vanilla alongside tightly packed tannins that leave a tongue-drying finish.
Aromas of sunbaked earth, underbrush, grilled herb and mature black-skinned fruit lead the nose along with a whiff of worn leather. The chewy palate offers ripe wild cherry, cinnamon and anise framed in velvety tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas of sunbaked soil, truffle, game, Mediterranean scrub and mature black-skinned fruit lead the nose on this earthy red. Made entirely with Nero d'Avola, the round, delicious palate tastes of ripe black cherry, blackberry, orange zest, spice and chopped herb. Velvety tannins and bright acidity support the juicy flavors. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of sunbaked soil, underbrush, pressed violet and plum lead the nose. The round chewy palate offers fleshy black cherry, licorice, tobacco and crushed herb alongside firm, refined tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas of sundry spices and tomato paste, forest floor and cigar box carry onto the medium-bodied palate, which bears a slack, pliant core. Fine tannins give the finish traction.
Aromas of sunny citrus and apricot entice on this deliciously fruity Muskat Ottonel. Semidry in style, the palate is generously sweetened with the juice of fresh yellow cherry and peach. With so much zippy acidity, it finishes nearly dry.
Aromas of superripe red fruit and charred wood match the soft mocha and red fruit flavors on this Croatian red made from the Teran grape. Finishes a bit sour with mouth-puckering acidity and tannins.
Aromas of sweat and sea water are more pyrazine-based than fruity. This is racy and sharp in feel, with briny salty flavors of lemon and green herbs. Throughout, this cutting SB is more salty tasting than fruity.
Aromas of sweet barrel spices, dried flowers, herbs and dark fruit lead to tart cherry flavors and a cranberry-filled finish.
Aromas of sweet berry fruit and cherry lean toward medicinal. The palate is juicy due to bold acidity, and the flavors settle on main street cherry. There's a buttery oak note on the finish, but overall it's more basic and fruity than supple and complex.
Aromas of sweet black cherry and dark plum form a good bouquet. The palate has smack and acidic bite, but the flavors are forward and clean, with a focus on plum and black cherry. Finishes full and long, with licorice as well as leftover acidity.
Aromas of sweet black cherry, cough drop and smoke work well together and draw you in. The palate is full and pretty smooth, with black plum, blackberry and creamy oak flavors. It's just spicy and interesting enough to earn a Best Buy recommendation. Best if you like sweet, ripe Syrahs.
Aromas of sweet corn and melon are not convincing. This has little in the way of mouthfeel or substance; flavors of candied fruits taste like corn and wheat, while the finish is spineless.
Aromas of sweet grass, vanilla cookie, lime and lychee are welcoming on the nose. This is a melony, round style of Torrontés, featuring apple and lychee notes. Flavorful and friendly, with a moderate finish.
Aromas of sweet honey and caramelized sugar on this Bulgarian Riesling belie a palate that's crisp, dry and bristling with acidity. Fresh lemon and apple flavors lack concentration but finish briskly with a hint of dusty minerality.
Aromas of sweet melon and honey suggest an innocuous quality that's confirmed on the palate, where basic apple and pear flavors come across a bit sweet. Finishes with some scour and a little harshness.
Aromas of sweet oak and maple announce that this Mencía received generous barrel treatment. Supple in feel, this tastes of oaky plum and raspberry along with a dash of salt. Jammy berry notes and a hint of Graham cracker rise up on the finish. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of sweet plum and raspberry jam lead to light pure fruit flavors. It shows a pleasing sense of elegance, with fruit flavors lingering on the finish.
Aromas of sweet plum, leather and spicebox lead to chocolate, coffee and cherry flavors with a soft, supple feel. It shows a pleasing mixture of fruit and barrel.
Aromas of sweet red berries, dried fruits and herbs open this light, accessible wine from Israel. The tone of the fruit seems to shift between a tart rhubarb and a slightly candied quality. Cherry notes show on the lean and dry back end.
Aromas of sweet spice and candied fruit characterize this lean but crisp Aglianico. The wine is not too dense or extracted and offers an easy, no-fuss approach to this hearty variety.
Aromas of sweet white peach and apple blossoms are lovely on this lean, light-footed Grüner Veltiner. The palate could use a hint more concentration, but it's lemony and brisk, with pleasant crushed chalk and grass notes. Drink now.
Aromas of syrupy red cherry, vanilla and mint meld with touches of blackberry and pepper. The wine delivers notable concentration, plush texture and a lingering finish.
Aromas of tangerine and bath oil are a bit soapy. This feels citric and lean. Flavors of lemon and green apple are slightly bitter on a finish that ends with a tired note of spent yeast. Drink immediately; this is starting to fade.
Aromas of tangerine and melon are light but display nuance. It tingles the palate with a broad, textured feel and a finish that sails.
Aromas of tangerine zest, peach and flower are followed by dry clean fruit flavors that show no apparent oak influence, with citrus notes lingering on the finish.
Aromas of tar and rubber give way to rich black fruits and toasty oak. A hard, tannic palate means this needs air or meaty foods. Oaky, resiny berry and cassis flavors finish chocolaty, with intense tannins. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of tar, asphalt, dark mineral and Indian sandalwood appear slowly and reveal a core of dark fruit and cherry that gives the wine momentum and intensity. The mouthfeel is less intense and delivers a tight, tart close.
Aromas of tar, flowers, barrel spice and dark fruit lead to palate-staining purple-fruit flavors backed by firm but quite well integrated tannins. It shows a compelling sense of purity.
Aromas of tarry asphalt, hockey puck and pasty oak dominate the creamy berry component. Jammy in feel, it has prune, spiced berry and herbal flavors. On the finish, the tannins are grabby while volume drowns out finesse.
Aromas of tea, tomato and Chinese spices accent lightweight cherry and currant notes. This is elegant and fresh, with good balance and more than enough oak character. Spicy flavors of nutmeg accent plum and red-berry flavors prior to a long dry finish. This is classy and complex; drink through 2018.
Aromas of the underside of a pineapple and freshly cut mango are followed by just off-dry, exuberant tropical fruit flavors. It's a mouthful of fruit that goes down easy.
Aromas of this brawny wine suggest black plum, berry, violet, leather and dill. Notes of licorice, tobacco and black pepper back up the sour cherry fruit. Big with round tannins, this is just reaching its ideal drinking window. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of this inky-purple wine include black plum, pencil shaving and cassis. The palate offers crushed black cherry, blueberry, spice and a hint of candied nectarine alongside brisk acidity and feisty tannins. Kermit Lynch Wine Merchants, Estelle Imports.
Aromas of this medium-bodied wine are smoky and herbal. The flavors combine black pepper, spicy oak notes and and almost-sweet fruits like plum and watermelon.
Aromas of this medium-bodied, un-oaked wine suggest sliced pears and apples, while the flavors are equally fruity but have a leaner feel. The texture is dry, firm and crisp, making this a great pairing for shellfish and many other dishes.
Aromas of this robust wine recall resin, raisin, vanilla and plum cake. The warm, thick palate offers prune, licorice and ground black pepper alongside robust tannins. There's not much fruit richness and the heat of alcohol throws this off balance.
Aromas of this wine convey notes of roasted corn on the cob, popcorn and peach. The stone-fruit flavors are sweet and easygoing.
Aromas of this wine show considerable wood. On the palate, the wood is very present, giving acidity as well as layers of toast and spice. Hints of yellow fruit show through, suggesting the possibility of a ripe, rich wine in the future. Drink from 2019.
Aromas of tilled earth, blackberry, cedar and raisin jump from the glass. The dense palate delivers mocha, vanilla, mature plum, bitter prune and black pepper supported by velvety tannins. The warmth of alcohol shows on the finish. Masciarelli Wine Co, Vinity Wine.
Aromas of tilled earth, leafy forest floor, porcini mushroom, truffle and ripe berry lead the nose. The palate offers wild cherry layered with medicinal herb, black pepper and grilled sage supported by firm tannins. It's still young and a bit disjointed so give it time to come together. Drink after 2018.
Aromas of tilled earth, leather, game and spicy plum carry over to the palate with dried blueberry, ground pepper and a hint of licorice. Round but fleeting tannins provide easygoing support.
Aromas of tilled earth, leather, ripe black-skinned fruit and a gamey note set the stage for this funky wine. The overripe palate displays fleshy black plum, dried blue flowers and bitter barnyard sensations set against a backdrop of soft acidity. Drying, astringent tannins cut the finish short.
Aromas of tilled earth, leather, violet, alpine herbs and forest floor lead the nose. The vibrant palate doles out crushed red cherry, menthol, thyme, grilled sage and black pepper alongside firm but fine tannins. Drink 2018–2038.
Aromas of tilled earth, ripe black fruit, menthol and a touch of leather lead the nose on this savory, medium-bodied red. The juicy palate offers ripe black cherry, raspberry, black pepper and a balsamic note alongside supple tannins.
Aromas of tilled earth, spice, leather, blue flowers and Mediterranean herbs lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot. The concentrated but polished palate offers a savory core of black cherry and red currant, while notes of bell pepper, mocha and baking spice provide backup. Supple tannins support the juicy flavors. Enjoy through 2017.
Aromas of tilled earth, truffle and woodland berry lead the nose. The lively, straightforward palate offers up juicy wild cherry, cinnamon and clove alongside soft, polished tannins. Simple but well made, it's ideal for everyday.
Aromas of tilled soil, blue flower, new saddle leather, underbrush and woodland berry waft from the glass after pouring this savory wine. The spicy palate offers creamy black cherry and raspberry layered with white pepper, clove and cinnamon. The juicy palate is supported by firm, polished tannins and fresh acidity.  Drink after 2016.
Aromas of tilled soil, blue flower, spicy plum cake and a balsamic note waft out of the glass. The structured but refined palate delivers mature blackberry, prune, menthol and allspice alongside bracing but fine-grained tannins. The lingering finish closes on a licorice note. Drink 2016–2024.
Aromas of tilled soil, dark berry, aromatic herb and a hint of coconut take shape in the glass. The simple palate offers juicy black cherry, espresso and a hint of dark spice accompanied by bright acidity and lithe tannins.
Aromas of tilled soil, herbs, flowers, olive, black pepper and orange peel lead to fresh, elegant smoked meat flavors with spot on balance. It's a unique expression of the variety from the state that keeps you coming back for more.
Aromas of tilled soil, leather, spiced berry and menthol lead the nose. The palate offers blackberry, Marasca cherry, cedar, mint and white pepper alongside fresh acidity and assertive but fine-grained tannins that leave a somewhat drying finish. Drink 2016–2020.
Aromas of tilled soil, overripe black plum, fleshy black cherry and a hint of farmyard lead the nose and carry through to the full-bodied palate. It's ripe, round and ready, with evolved tannins and soft acidity so drink soon.
Aromas of tire rubber and asphalt are low on fruit. This turns for the better on the palate, which feels creamy despite showing rubbery tannins. Peppery flavors of cherry, plum and raspberry become salty on a mostly smooth, solid finish.
Aromas of tire rubber and plum lead to soft, sweet cherry and mocha flavors. It's a solid, easy drinker.
Aromas of tire rubber mix with herb, graphite and candied raspberries. The flavors are light and they paint around the edges, with lightly chalky tannins supporting them.
Aromas of tire rubber mix with herbs, red fruit, plum and allspice. Candied red fruit flavors are plump in feel, trailing on the finish.
Aromas of tire rubber mix with plum and berry on a rustic nose. This wine displays a strong grip but also shearing tartaric acidity. Smoky plum and berry flavors suggest char and hickory, finishing spicy and savory. Drink through 2020
Aromas of tire rubber, beet root, earthy plum and compost are not the stuff of legend. This feels soupy, then hollow. Flavors of tomato sauce are less than stirring, while this is edgy in feel and tastes tomatoey across the finish.
Aromas of tire rubber, black cherry and citrus peel are tight and closed. This feels dry and tannic, with little give. Dark-berry flavors come with a dash of salt, while this remains salty and feels dried out on the finish.
Aromas of tire rubber, eucalyptus and scratchy black fruits set up a shear, acidic palate with flavors of salty, herbal, somewhat sour berry and plum. A rough, scouring finish is par for the course.
Aromas of tire rubber, graphite and wet cement are oak-driven and overshadow wine's berry components. A tannic, resiny palate is expected, given the nose. Heavy oak overshadows black-plum flavors, while the finish is oaky, minty and a touch green.
Aromas of tire rubber, herb and red fruit lead to soft, plush cranberry and cherry flavors that linger.
Aromas of tire rubber, mint, clove and green-leaning plum and cherry are less than convincing. This lightweight Cabernet tastes of herbal plum and cherry along with cinnamon powder.
Aromas of tire rubber, plum and red currant are followed by sweet plump fruit flavors. Chalky tannins provide the frame.
Aromas of tire rubber, plum and spice are followed sweet currant and cranberry flavors. The tannins bring some grit.
Aromas of toast and grilled herb lead the way on this straightforward red. The light-bodied palate offers wild cherry, orange peel and a coffee note alongside racy acidity and fine-grained but fleeting tannins.
Aromas of toast and hazelnut lead the way on this lively wine, following through to the palate along with yellow apple skin and a hint of mineral. Vigorous bubbles give it a bright mouthfeel.
Aromas of toast and licorice lead the nose along with a hint of roasted coffee bean. The palate offers anise, bitter dark chocolate and dried sour cherry while bracing tannins grip the finish.
Aromas of toast, apricot, mint, honey and field dust make for a complex bouquet. The honeyed palate yields a trace of green herbs along with lemon rind and white pepper. Obviously there's a lot going on here, and for some it may be too “out there.” For others it will be a spot-on Kiwi offering with lots of individuality and character.
Aromas of toast, black plum, espresso and a whiff of coconut come together on this on this medium-bodied red. The palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry, anise, coffee and a green note of sage while close-grained tannins grip the finish. It closes on an astringent note.
Aromas of toast, blue flowers, sage and mineral lead the nose. The bright palate offers red berry, clove, orange rind and roasted coffee beans alongside firm acidity and assertive tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of toast, burnt coffee, mocha, vanilla, herbs and cherry take the lead on this wine. The milk chocolate and cherry flavors are elegant yet rich in style, with the oak at times seeming a little overweighted.
Aromas of toast, char and black fruit are followed by lightly sweet blue and black fruit flavors. It goes down easy.
Aromas of toast, char, and milk chocolate along with blue and black fruit are followed by velvety soft fruit flavors. It shows an appealing sense of balance and polish.
Aromas of toast, coconut and oak-driven spice lead the nose and carry over to the palate along with licorice and a confectionary note. This lacks fruit richness while raspy tannins leave an astringent finish.
Aromas of toast, coconut and ripe black-skinned fruit lead the nose. The soft, one-dimensional palate doles out fleshy black cherry, vanilla and mocha alongside round but rather drying tannins.
Aromas of toast, coconut, oak and roasted coffee bean lead the nose and carry over to the palate along with a note of raw cherry and sage. It doesn't have enough fruit richness to stand up to the oak-driven spice and the bracing, astringent tannins.
Aromas of toast, coconut, thyme, vanilla and sugared plum cake lead the nose. The round, accessible palate offers black-cherry-marinated in spirits, licorice and a confectionary note framed in mature tannins. Ripe and evolving quickly, this is best suited for near- to mid-term enjoyment.
Aromas of toast, coffee, baking spice, herb and dark fruit lead to full-bodied, expansive black-fruit flavors. It pulls no punches but still manages to stay in balance, with a lingering finish that caps it off.
Aromas of toast, coffee, herb and red fruit are followed by generous coffee and cherry flavors. The tannins bring a touch of grit but it retains an overall pretty appeal.
Aromas of toast, espresso and mature plum lead to a tightly wound palate that offers roasted coffee bean, licorice and walnut alongside tough, astringent tannins.
Aromas of toast, espresso and meat juices lead the nose. The palate offers oak, cured meat, grilled herb and dried red fruit alongside firm but fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2022.
Aromas of toast, espresso and prune carry over to the lean, tannic palate. It's already extremely evolved and the fruit is drying up quickly. Drink through 2015.
Aromas of toast, espresso, black-skinned fruit, aromatic herb and a balsamic note lead the way on this powerfully structured wine. The brawny, monolithic palate offers black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice and tobacco alongside assertive, enveloping tannins. You'll also feel the heat of alcohol on the close.
Aromas of toast, espresso, oak and sage come together in the glass. On the palate, notes of coconut and coffee accent a ripe core of wild cherry. Soft acidity and round tannins lend it an easy-drinking quality.
Aromas of toast, espresso, ripe berry and menthol lead the nose. The round, savory palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, clove, chopped herb and game alongside chewy tannins. A coffee note closes the finish.
Aromas of toast, French oak, coconut and a balsamic follow over to the robust palate along with the heat of evident alcohol. Lacking fruit richness, it can't stand up to the dominant oak-driven flavors while close-grained tannins grip the finish.
Aromas of toast, French oak, pressed yellow flower and white stone fruit lead the way. The rather lean palate offers yellow apple skin, bitter almond, saline and a honey note.
Aromas of toast, green apple and underripe pear waft from this straight-ahead bubbly from a sparkling-focused winery on the Westside of Santa Cruz. Golden apple, lemon-lime and yeastiness carry the palate, with a touch of lemon cream.
Aromas of toast, hazelnut, ripe berry and spice lead the nose while the structured palate doles out succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, fennel and mineral. Fine-grained tannins leave a firm finish.
Aromas of toast, menthol, wild berry and oak take shape in the glass. The palate delivers dried black cherry, well-integrated oak, coconut, espresso, mocha and a hint of anisette balanced by firm, slightly astringent tannins.
Aromas of toast, milk chocolate and black-skinned fruit lead the way. The soft, low-acid palate doles out crushed plum, fleshy cherry and mocha alongside drying, angular tannins that create an abrupt finish.
Aromas of toast, mocha and baked plum lead the nose of this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Colorino. The taut palate offers dried wild cherry, raspberry, mint and ground pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of toast, mocha, dark berry, roasted herb and scorched soil slowly come together. The ripe, concentrated palate offers fleshy dark-skinned berry, clove and tobacco alongside a tannic backbone. Drink 2019–2024.
Aromas of toast, nut, oak and yellow stone fruit emerge on this linear white. The palate is rather lean, offering grapefruit, mineral, thyme and a hint of roasted coffee bean alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of toast, oak and yellow flower lead the nose. Aged in large casks and barriques, the linear, if somewhat lean, palate offers golden apple and lemon zest alongside tangy acidity.
Aromas of toast, oak extract, red berry and coconut lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The palate delivers wild cherry marinated in spirits, dried sage and oak-driven spice alongside astringent tannins.
Aromas of toast, oak, coconut, vanilla, mocha and mature plum lead the nose. Oak-driven sensations drive the robust palate along with ripe berry and a confectionary note. Scorching alcohol dominates the finish and throws this off-balance while bracing tannins leave an astringent close.
Aromas of toast, oak, dark berry and roasted coffee beans lead the way on this full-bodied red. The ripe, solid palate offers baked black cherry, vanilla, mocha and espresso alongside bracing, astringent tannins.
Aromas of toast, oak, earth and berry lead the way. The lean palate is rather diluted, showing dried cherry and hints of black pepper and espresso. Dusty, rather fleeting tannins leave a mouth drying finish.
Aromas of toast, oak, espresso and a whiff of rubber lead the nose and carry over to the firm palate, along with dried black cherry and oak driven spice. It's still tightly wound, with an astringent finish. Give it another year or two for the tannins to unclench then drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of toast, oak, espresso and a whiff of smoke lead the nose. The palate offers oak extract, coconut, coffee and vanilla but there's not enough fruit richness to support the oak. It's already reached its ideal drinking window so enjoy sooner rather than later.
Aromas of toast, oak, hazelnut and a whiff of citrus zest slowly come together on this mature sparkler. The concentrated palate is more about complexity than primary fruit, offering bread crust, toasted almond, fennel, yellow apple skin and a hint of lemon zest alongside an elegant perlage.
Aromas of toast, prune, dried earth, leather and a balsamic note emerge on this full-bodied wine. The structured palate delivers dried black cherry, mocha, tobacco and a touch of baking spice accompanied by a network of tightly woven tannins.
Aromas of toast, ripe berry, clove and mocha lead the nose. The palate shows tart cherry, raw strawberry, anise and a hint of espresso alongside tightly wound, fine-grained tannins that grip the finish.
Aromas of toast, roasted coffee bean, baked plum and a whiff of coconut lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, espresso and a green note of sage alongside tightly packed, astringent tannins that leave a raspy finish. Give the tannins a few more years to soften then drink to capture the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of toast, roasted coffee bean, ripe black skinned fruit and exotic spice lead the way on this forward, concentrated wine. The warm, dense palate offers blackberry jam, dried black cherry, roasted walnut and licorice while big, chewy tannins offers support.
Aromas of toast, roasted coffee bean, stewed plum and a whiff of underbrush lead the nose. The solid palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry jam, nutmeg and black pepper alongside tightly woven tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas of toast, roasted herb, dark-skinned berry, mint and a balsamic note lead the way. The young, firm palate offers dark cherry, black raspberry and white pepper framed in austere tannins and bright acidity. It's still young and needs to unwind. Drink 2020–2028.
Aromas of toast, sawdust, dark berry and cocoa lead the way. The firm palate offers black cherry, dark chocolate, espresso, oak and anise alongside tightly wound tannins and lively acidity.
Aromas of toast, sawdust, raspberry jam and menthol lead the way. The firm palate offers cherry liqueur, espresso and a hint of licorice while close-grained tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of toast, scorched earth, black plum, espresso and mocha lead the nose on this robust, savory wine. The concentrated palate offers mature black cherry, ripe blackberry, raspberry jam, licorice and black pepper alongside chewy tannins and fresh acidity. The fruit richness seamlessly supports the hefty alcohol.
Aromas of toast, scorched earth, espresso and grilled herb come together on this structured Barbaresco. The palate is still young and a bit shy but eventually reveals dark cherry, white pepper, sage and tobacco accompanied by packed tannins that need to unwind. A licorice note signals the close.
Aromas of toast, scorched earth, espresso, game, and spice lead the nose. The forward palate offers roasted coffee bean, black pepper, vanilla and overripe plum. It's evolving fast so drink now.
Aromas of toast, scorched earth, leather, dried herb and a balsamic note emerge on this solid, brawny red. The warm, chewy palate delivers raspberry compote, chopped mint, dried sage, coffee and licorice framed in close-grained, drying tannins. You'll also notice the wallop of evident alcohol. It shows the heat of the vintage so drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of toast, truffle, game, plum and underbrush lead the nose. The lively palate offers black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and baking spice alongside soft tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of toast, underbrush and a hint of chocolate covered-cherry lead the nose. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, a hint of star anise and a green note of powdered sage alongside nervous acidity. Tightly packed, bracing tannins leave a tongue-drying finish.
Aromas of toast, underbrush and a whiff of wet fur lead the nose. The structured palate offers hazelnut, crushed raspberry and grilled herb alongside assertive tannins that give it a firm finish.
Aromas of toast, underbrush and mature plum lead the nose on this medium-bodied red. The palate delivers black cherry, roasted coffee bean, black pepper and grilled herb alongside bracing tannins. The fruit is already dried up so drink this soon.
Aromas of toast, vanilla and citrus zest lead the way and carry over to the bright palate along with Golden Delicious apple, lemon drop and mineral. Firm acidity offsets the fruit flavors while a walnut note closes the finish.
Aromas of toast, vanilla, apple and bread crust follow over to the invigorating palate along with candied citrus and walnut. Small vigorous bubbles give it a vibrant edge.
Aromas of toast, walnut and dried orchard fruit lead the nose on this blend of 40% Vermentino, 40% Sauvignon and 20% Chardonnay. The palate offers yellow apple skin, oak extract, butterscotch and toasted almond but it's shy on fruit richness.
Aromas of toast, wild berry and cake spice come together in the glass. The firm, structured palate delivers dried red cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and grilled herb. It's still young and tannic so let this unwind and fully develop. Drink 2018–2030.
Aromas of toast, yellow apple, corn silk and whiffs of tropical fruit lead to a restrained, elegant palate with a lightly creamy feel.
Aromas of toasted almond and yellow apple follow over to the lean vivacious palate along with citrus zest. It's simple and refreshing, with crisp acidity and a vigorous perlage.
Aromas of toasted almond and yellow apple skin lead the nose. The aromas follow through to the palate along with a hint of peach and a mineral note. It's rather lean, with brisk acidity.
Aromas of toasted almond, Bartlett pear and wildflowers waft from the glass. The bright palate offers citrus zest, mature yellow apple and a nutty note, brightened by refreshing acidity.
Aromas of toasted almond, white flower, dried herb and orchard fruit lead the way. It's round and fresh, with flavors evoking mature yellow apple, candied nectarine and a hint of thyme.
Aromas of toasted bread and vanilla echo in the rich, buttery flavors of this full-bodied and lavishly textured white Rhône-style blend. The oaky spices make it serious and complex while mild pear and almond flavors take a second seat.
Aromas of toasted hazelnut and citrus pith lead the way to flavors of apple and pear. It's direct but clean.
Aromas of toasted hazelnut, underbrush, berry and game take center stage. The gamey note carries over to the simple, easygoing palate along with raspberry and a savory touch of grilled herb. A hint of orange peel backs up racy acidity and short-lived tannins.
Aromas of toasted hazelnuts and yeast give way on the palate to oranges, cloves and golden delicious apples. The Bolly house style of weight and heft is well displayed here, balanced out by a long, taut finish.
Aromas of toasted macadamia, Fuji apple and apricot preserves are bold and well delineated. This tastes off-dry, but its acids are lively enough to keep the midpalate from feeling sticky. Warm and sappy on the finish, it bears vivid, lingering notes of toasted nut and bruised apple. Try pairing this with roast chicken and a not-too-sweet apricot chutney.
Aromas of toasted marshmallow, lemon juice and papaya swarm the nose. The semisweet palate tastes floral and tropical, and it manages to keep its form with bright acidity. A touch of kiwi marks the finish.
Aromas of toasted nut and dried stone fruit lead the nose on this structured white. On the palate, dried herb and a mineral note accent the core of yellow apple and citrus. Fresh acidity generates a clean finish.
Aromas of toasted nut and yellow apple lift out of the glass. The airy, zippy palate offers unripe pear, lime, almond and mineral alongside brisk acidity.
Aromas of toasted nut, brimstone, citrus and a balsam open. The palate offers yellow apple, medicinal herb and nectarine while a saline note marks the close.
Aromas of toasted nut, citrus and oak lead the nose. The linear, rather lean palate shows yellow apple skin, bitter almond and lime zest. A mineral note signals the finish.
Aromas of toasted nut, oak and ripe citrus lead the nose. The soft palate offers mature yellow apple, candied lemon zest, roasted hazelnut and a hint of pastry cream alongside an airy perlage.
Aromas of toasted nut, smoke, dried wild flower and mature orchard fruit lead the nose. The medium-bodied, rather evolved palate shows notes of honey, yellow apple skin and a hint of hazelnut. Drink soon to capture the remaining freshness.
Aromas of toasted nut, vanilla nougat, orange, spice and lemon lead this sophisticated sip from Loel. On the palate, spice, smoke, nut and citrus flavors intermingle in an elegant but assertive package. This is an appealing and historic treat.
Aromas of toasted oak and lemon zest carry through to the one-dimensional, lean palate, along with confectionary notes.
Aromas of toasted oak, butterscotch and hazelnut lead the nose on this brawny white. The flamboyant, full-bodied palate offers dried citrus fruit, candied ginger, vanilla, honey and a confectionary note. The rich flavors have a certain appeal but the heat of evident alcohol throws it off balance.
Aromas of toasted oak, candied citrus, pressed white flower and vanilla lead the nose and follow through to the palate, along with nectarine zest and baked apricot. Enjoy soon to capture the remaining freshness and fruit.
Aromas of toasted oak, cedar, dark-skinned berry and a whiff of barnyard lead the nose. The dense, one-dimensional palate palate doles out overripe plum, vanilla, game and a confectionary note. Buffed, fleeting tannins and soft acidity make this extremely accessible so drink now.
Aromas of toasted oak, chamomile and acacia flower lead the nose. The round palate offers yellow apple skin, dried tropical fruit, oak, coffee and a butterscotch note alongside well-integrated acidity. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of toasted oak, coffee and red berry lead the nose. The palate delivers dried cherry, vanilla, coconut and a note of powdered sage while bracing tannins give it a drying finish. Drink 2017–2012.
Aromas of toasted oak, coffee and scorched earth lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah. The palate offers black pepper, blackberry extract and espresso alongside polished but rather fleeting tannins. It's already quite evolved and the fruit is fading quickly.
Aromas of toasted oak, crushed blue flower, underbrush, espresso, licorice and toasted notes take center stage. There's not much fruit richness here so drink now before it fades.
Aromas of toasted oak, dark-skinned fruit, leafy underbrush and roasted coffee bean come together in the glass. The palate offers dried black cherry, espresso, mocha, licorice and powdered sage alongside astringent but not very persistent tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of toasted oak, dark berry and menthol lead the way. The firm palate offers bright red cherry, strawberry, thyme and sage alongside tightly knit tannins.
Aromas of toasted oak, espresso and exotic spice follow through to the firm palate along with star anise and notes of dried cherry. Bracing, close-grained tannins leave an extremely astringent finish.
Aromas of toasted oak, espresso, chocolate and mocha echo on the palate, along with notes of chocolate and mocha. But it lacks fruit richness and can't stand up to the astringent wood tannins.
Aromas of toasted oak, espresso, coconut and dried black fruit slowly take shape in the glass. Made entirely with Merlot, the dense palate offers blackberry extract, black cherry, coffee and grilled sage alongside rather astringent tannins that dry out the finish.
Aromas of toasted oak, espresso, underbrush and a balsamic note take shape in the glass. The fresh firm palate shows dried sour cherry, cranberry, roasted coffee bean and a hint of star anise set against close-grained tannins that grip the finish.
Aromas of toasted oak, espresso, vanilla and ripe berry lead the nose. The palate offers oak extract, roasted coffee bean, mocha and dark cherry. It's full-bodied, with drying and rather fleeting tannins.
Aromas of toasted oak, green leaves, vanilla and spice waft from this medium-bodied North Carolina Bordeaux-style blend. The palate is ripe and plush with plenty of sweet dark cherry fruit, but there's a tinge of green in the backdrop. Tobacco, smoke and supple tannins on the finish add an edge to this otherwise soft sipper.
Aromas of toasted oak, hazelnut and espresso lead the nose. The oak sensations carry over to the firm palate, along with candied citrus zest, butterscotch, yellow-apple skin and a confectionery note.
Aromas of toasted oak, mature orchard fruit, and baking spice open. The medium-bodied palate offers yellow apple skin, grapefruit, butterscotch and toasted nut alongside bright acidity. A graphite note signals the close.
Aromas of toasted oak, menthol, marinated plum and a hint of wet animal fur lead the nose. The palate is still tight and rather closed, offering raw red berry, licorice and oak sensations supported by raspy tannins.
Aromas of toasted oak, mint, vanilla and dried berry lead the nose and continue to the palate along with coffee and anise notes. It's rather austere and lacks fruit richness.
Aromas of toasted oak, mocha and a whiff of coconut oak lead the nose while the firm palate offers dark cherry, espresso, dried sage and a hint of anise. The tightly wound tannins still pack youthful sharpness and need a few more years to soften up. Drink after 2021.
Aromas of toasted oak, nut, acacia flower and orchard fruit come together in the glass. The firm palate offers mature yellow apple, candied nectarine zest, toasted hazelnut and flinty mineral. Bright acidity provides balance.
Aromas of toasted oak, plum, menthol and crushed violet open on the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, licorice, leather, chopped sage and espresso alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of toasted oak, pressed yellow flower and ripe orchard fruit carry over to the palate along with toasted nut, yellow apple and a hint of vanilla. Enjoy soon to capture the remaining fruit and freshness.
Aromas of toasted oak, roasted coffee bean and dried black-skinned fruit lead the nose. The firm, astringent palate offers raisin, dried black cherry and star anise alongside close-grained tannins. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of toasted oak, smoke and whiff of dried yellow flower take shape in the glass. The rather lean racy palate shows oak, butterscotch, bitter almond and a hint of citrus zest while tangy acidity provides the framework.
Aromas of toasted oak, tropical fruit and a marked medicinal note lead the nose. The round palate offers oak, pear, citrus peel and a bitter note recalling adhesive bandage.
Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla and a confectionary note lead the nose while the palate offers mature Golden Delicious apple, butterscotch and walnut skin alongside bracing acidity.
Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla and butterscotch carry over to the palate together with red apple skin and pear alongside fresh acidity. Not much fruit richness, but it's crisp and linear.
Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla and dark berry take shape in the glass. The brooding palate offers black cherry, espresso, oak spices and a hint of grilled herb alongside fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2016.
Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla and yellow apple skin emerge from the glass. The palate is linear and elegant, revealing subtle flavors of vanilla, citrus zest, mineral and walnut. Notes of butterscotch and mineral close the finish.
Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla, spiced plum, leather and a whiff of game lead the nose. The rich palate offers baked black fruit, sage, tobacco and anisette alongside a backbone of assertive tannins.
Aromas of toasted oak, yellow apple and vanilla lead the nose and follow through to the bright palate along with notes of candied citrus and nut. Fresh acidity brightens the rich flavors while bitter almond marks the close.
Aromas of toasted walnut, nectarine zest and dried apricot carry over to the palate, along with notes of maple syrup, lemon cream, honey and vanilla. Bright acidity stops it from being cloying.
Aromas of toasted white bread and baked apple are yeasty. This feels good on the palate, with mature flavors of apple that steer clear of being too snappy or citric. On the finish this is like the nose: bready and tasting like baked apple.
Aromas of toasty oak, vanilla, black cherry, plum and spice hit the right notes. In the mouth, this is chewy, full bodied and loaded with resiny oak and cutting acidity. Baked loamy black-fruit and fig flavors reflect a warm dry vintage, while this tastes chocolaty and is packed to the brim on the finish. Drink from 2018–2028.
Aromas of tobacco and spice are light and reserved. The palate offers tangy cherry flavors that persist on the finish.
Aromas of tobacco leaf, wet soil, mature plum, resin and a whiff of barnyard lead the nose on this full-bodied wine. The palate offers dried prune layered with notes of chocolate and grilled sage. The fleeting finish closes on a rather bitter note.
Aromas of tobacco, cherry, brown sugar and cassis are ripe and well oaked. In the mouth, this Cabernet-led blend is tight and mildly astringent, with pulling tannins. Toasty blackberry flavors are more boxed in than expansive, while this is hard and rattling on the finish, but still excellent as a whole. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of tobacco, coffee, mocha and plum cake lead the nose on this brawny wine. The dense, one-dimensional palate delivers chocolate-covered cherry, vanilla and bitter prune alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of tobacco, dried herbs and strawberry are followed by focused, creamy-feeling raspberry and cranberry flavors. It shows a real sense of purity but the mouthfeel is where it truly shines.
Aromas of tobacco, dried rose, mature berry and leather meld together on the glass. The firm palate is still a bit closed, but offers dried red cherry, licorice, grilled herb and a hint of black tea alongside firm tannins that give the finish some grip.
Aromas of tobacco, mild raisin, dry oak and berries are simple and pleasant, while the palate is light in weight, a touch dilute but very fresh and easy, with cherry, plum and even some citrus for flavor. Light and transparent on the finish, with barely any excess.
Aromas of tobacco, molasses and damp moss suggest earthiness, yet the palate is piercing and high-wire, with bright, almost blinding acidity pushing cherry and red plum flavors. Kind of gritty on the finish, where the tannins and acids combine.
Aromas of tobacco, scorched earth and grilled herb lead the nose. Smooth and juicy, the palate doles out fleshy wild cherry, cassis and cracked pepper alongside polished tannins. It closes on a smoky note.
Aromas of tobacco, vanilla and dried fruit take on a grassy note after airing in the glass. A cool, wet vintage for the region yields a slightly astringent and acidic palate. Flavors of dried plum, cherry and vanilla carry a tart streak, while the finish is both earthy and a bit sour.
Aromas of tobacco, vanilla and licorice are nicely intermixed with black fruit scents. The palate on this blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère is hard driving and focused. Flavors of plum, currant and spice hold steady across a tannic, mildly abrasive finish. Drink through 2020.
Aromas of tobacco, wood grain, plum and cherry set up a plucky, lively palate with hard tannins. Spicy plum and berry flavors finish steady and drawing. Drunk now through 2023.
Aromas of toffee-covered caramel apple, crème brûlée and a touch of petrol combine forcefully to invite one into this otherwise light-bodied, expressive wine, the texture salty and sublime.
Aromas of tomato leaf and blackberry unfold into flavors of pepper and cherry cola. Vanilla aromas dominate the long, crisp finish, which shows nicely refined tannins.
Aromas of tomato leaf, baked beans and stewed plum set up a narrow, pinched palate. Flavors of herbal raspberry and red plum have a green, minty component that starts early and carries onto a dry, raw finish.
Aromas of tomato sauce and fresh green herbs set up true-to-Carmenère flavors of salty, herbal plum and berry. On the finish, typical varietal flavors of olive, herbs and spice are saucy.
Aromas of tomato sauce and red-wine vinegar create sharpness on the nose. Plum and raspberry flavors run short, with a fresh, basic finish.
Aromas of tomato vine, hay and passion fruit unfold in the glass. The crisp, linear palate offers white grapefruit, mango, a hint of oak-driven spice and mineral alongside bright acidity that leaves a clean finish.
Aromas of tomato, balsamic black fruits and beef stew announce a blocky palate that's flat in feel. Flavors of pepper, prune and stewed blackberry finish dark and rubbery, and overall this is ripe but lacking in structure and mouthfeel.
Aromas of tomato, herbs, plastic and berries are decent but minimal. This feels chunky due to modest acidity, while lightly baked, herbal plum and berry flavors are regular through the finish.
Aromas of tomato, plum and spice are fresh and medium in intensity. Flavors of plum, olive, spice and mild oak finish with toasty barrel notes and a spot of licorice.
Aromas of tomato, spiced cherry, leather and fresh herbs are clean and appealing. A standard, balanced mouthfeel is medium in body, with dry, woody flavors of peppery plum and berry fruits. Minty and darker on the finish.
Aromas of tomato, spiced plum, cherry and asphalt are encouraging. This feels somewhat syrupy and clunky, while candied berry and spice flavors are strong. A modicum of varietal herbal spice rises up on an otherwise sweet-tasting finish.
Aromas of tree bark and rooty fruit are balanced by floral notes, while the palate is angular and juicy, with acid-propelled berry and mild citrus flavors. Jumpy, fresh and tomatoey on the finish. Could use more bulk, darkness and concentration; seems sort of dilute and high-acid.
Aromas of tree bark, baked sugar beet, herbs and licorice blend with earthy black-fruit scents on this ripe, jammy, generous Cabernet. Baked blackberry, licorice, rooty spice and cassis flavors finish with herbal notes, a spicy black peppercorn flavor, a licorice hint and smooth tannins.
Aromas of tree bark, braised turnip and smoky black plum are rooty. This feels gritty and borderline astringent due to massive drying tannins. Savory earthy tarry blackberry flavors end with a hard tannic clamp. Drink this hefty brute from 2018 through 2035.
Aromas of tree bark, cherry and cassis are rooty. This feels ripe, dense and generally well balanced. Rich flavors of coffee, dark chocolate, blackberry and black tea finish with creamy oak notes, herbal overtones and tobacco flavors. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of tree bark, cola, mushroom and black olive get this Cab going, while on the palate it keeps that savory-over-fruity character by showing meaty, mildly herbal flavors. It's full, a bit tannic and grabby. But overall it has an honest feel and integrity.
Aromas of tree bark, pencil eraser, olive, plum and berry fruits are solid. This is quite good for Maule Syrah. The acidity is lively and bracing, while plum and apple-skin flavors finish raw and grating.
Aromas of tree bark, vanilla and herbs mix with peppery red fruit scents, while the palate is comfortable and herbal, with plum and dry oak notes. Peppery on the finish, and overall this is a nice but standard Chilean Cabernet that should strike most as being familiar.
Aromas of tropical fruit and a hint of vanilla lead the nose. The easygoing palate offers peach and apple alongside soft acidity. Soft and simple, pour it for informal parties or picnics.
Aromas of tropical fruit and banana lead the nose and carry over to the rounded palate along with pineapple and a hint of candied citrus. A note of bitter nut marks the close.
Aromas of tropical fruit and citrus blossom lead the nose on this rich sparkler. The round, rather sweet palate doles out banana, green apple, yellow peach and apricot alongside a foaming mousse. Less sweet than a dessert wine, it would pair nicely with vanilla ice cream or cream-filled pastries.
Aromas of tropical fruit and lime are restrained on the nose. The palate is soft and a bit flabby, with papaya and yellow-apple flavors that become more pithy and bitter on the easy finish.
Aromas of tropical fruit and pressed white flower take center on this medium-bodied white. On the palate, bright acidity balances out dried yellow fruit, citrus zest and toasted oak. Enjoy now to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of tropical fruit and white peach carry over to the creamy palate along with ripe Granny Smith apple, candied lemon rind and a ginger note. Fresh acidity lifts the rather rich finish.
Aromas of tropical fruit and white spring flowers lead the nose on this racy sparkler. The palate offers kiwi, green apple and white peach accompanied by vibrant acidity and vigorous bubbles.
Aromas of tropical fruit, dried hay and mint lead the nose. The bright palate offers grapefruit, pineapple and unripe yellow peach. Brisk acidity gives it a breezy finish.
Aromas of tropical fruit, French oak, hay and a nutty note lead the way. On the linear palate, bitter almond, vanilla and butterscotch accent yellow apple. Racy acidity provides the framework while a hint of Alpine herb closes the finish.
Aromas of tropical fruit, peach, white flower and cut grass lead the nose on this medium-bodied white. The round, juicy palate offers peach, tart green apple, banana and nectarine skin alongside tangy acidity.
Aromas of tropical fruit, pear and honeysuckle jump out of the glass. The straightforward palate delivers tart green apple, white peach and a touch of citrus alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of tropical fruit, pressed wild flower and ripe orchard fruit lead the nose. The round savory palate offers juicy peach, red Bartlett pear and a white almond note. Energizing mineral lifts the creamy flavors.
Aromas of tropical fruit, spring flowers and white peach lead the nose on this single-vineyard bottling. The rich palate doles out green apple, ripe pear and candied citrus zest alongside racy acidity and a foaming mousse.
Aromas of tropical fruit, yellow apple and fragrant wild flower lead into a straightforward palate offering dried apricot, citrus, bitter almond and a confectionery note. Fresh acidity brightens the finish.
Aromas of tropical fruit, yellow flower and a hint of nut lead the nose. On the informal palate, brisk acidity brightens banana, white peach and pear.
Aromas of tropical fruit, yellow peach and white almond mark the nose of this rich, structured white. The round, juicy palate delivers pineapple, tangy citrus, green apple and mineral. It's nicely balanced, with moderate acidity and good length.
Aromas of tropical fruits, ham, candle wax and melon are odd and unusual. An oily, chunky palate features waxy, honeyed flavors of salami, fennel and quince. A waxy feeling finish with controlled bitterness and honeyed stone-fruit flavors wraps this up.
Aromas of tropical pineapple, guava and mango as well as caramelized banana begin what seems will become a decadent journey on the palate, but no. The flavors and textures are measured and nicely balanced, with lilts of minerality rising on the finish.
Aromas of truffle, new leather, black-skinned fruit, wild herb and pressed rose lead the nose. The velvety full-bodied palate delivers fleshy wild cherry, ripe cranberry, star anise and clove set against athletic tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas of truffle, ripe dark-skinned berry, baking spice and grilled herb unfold on this structured red but accessible red. The ripe, chewy palate doles out fleshy wild cherry, raspberry jam, cinnamon and clove. Well-integrated tannins lend an almost weightless quality. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas of truffle, ripe plum, grilled mushroom and herb lead the nose on this full-bodied but wonderfully easy-drinking wine. The savory palate delivers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry and cinnamon alongside supple tannins. Enjoy it soon to capture the fresh fruit flavors. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of truffle, spiced blackberry, violet and a whiff dark spice come together on this. The chewy medium-bodied palate offers black cherry, plum and clove framed in fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of truffle, tilled soil, dark berry and a whiff of blue flower lead the nose on this easygoing red. The lithe palate delivers dark cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside supple tannins and bright acidity.
Aromas of underbrush and leather dominate a rustic nose. The palate tastes briny, with underripe berry flavors that finish candied and herbaceous.
Aromas of underbrush wild berry, iris grilled herb, vineyard dust and a balsamic note take center stage. The polished palate offers morello cherry, raspberry compote, baking spice and anise alongside refined tannins and fresh acidity. It's already tempting and nicely balanced but hold for more complexity. Drink 2021–2030.
Aromas of underbrush, baked earth, cedar and a whiff of game lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, anise, black pepper and grilled sage alongside brooding tannins. It's a bit rustic but has an earthy appeal. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of underbrush, baked earth, espresso and dried berry lead the nose along with a whiff of blue flowers. The straightforward palate offers mature black cherry, licorice and a hint of clove alongside fresh acidity.
Aromas of underbrush, baked earth, oak, coffee, mature dark-skinned berry and a whiff of eucalyptus lead the nose. The firm, straightforward palate offers tart cherry, espresso, toast and menthol alongside fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, baked plum, dried mint and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. Brawny and dense, the meaty palate delivers licorice, ripe black cherry, raisin and clove alongside chewy tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas of underbrush, baked plum, pipe tobacco and dark cooking spice emerge on this concentrated red. The dense and structured palate displays dried black cherry, ripe blackberry, raisin, licorice and cinnamon alongside velvety tannins. Drink through 2024.
Aromas of underbrush, baking spice, violet and Alpine herb come together on this elegant wine. The tense, firmly structured palate delivers raspberry, red cherry, tobacco and star anise alongside youthfully austere but refined tannins and bright acidity. Give it time to fully develop. Drink 2018–2028.
Aromas of underbrush, black fruit, toast and espresso lead the nose on the blend of Sangiovese and 15% Malvasia Nera. The palate is still resting heavily on its oak, showing coffee, coconut, vanilla and mocha, along with dried black cherry, prune and clove. The raspy tannins need to soften up but the fruit richness is already drying up.
Aromas of underbrush, blackberry, ground black pepper and a whiff of leather come together in the glass. The warm, forward palate shows dried black cherry, licorice, clove and sage accompanied by dusty tannins that leave a drying finish. Drink sooner rather than later to catch the remaining fruit richness.
Aromas of underbrush, blackcurrant, oak and cake spice lead the nose of this blend of Sangiovese and 15% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate offers dried blackberry accented with oak-driven spices of coconut, vanilla, mocha and cedar alongside assertive tannins. Drink through 2016–2022.
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers, cooking spice and black plum unfold in the glass. A blend of 50% Sangiovese and 50% Malvasia Nera, the palate reveals dried black cherry, black pepper and anise alongside firm, polished tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers, dark berries and a whiff of menthol unfold in the glass. The supple palate offers fleshy wild cherry, black raspberry, licorice, mint and white pepper alongside firm but fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of underbrush, cellar floor, porcini mushroom and a whiff of menthol lead the nose. The palate is on the raw side, offering sour cranberry, dried herb and star anise alongside assertive, rather grainy tannins that leave a drying finish.
Aromas of underbrush, charred earth and a hint of cedar lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. The extracted palate delivers mature black currant, dried blackberry, espresso and black pepper alongside dusty tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, charred earth, truffle, star anise and a hint of menthol come together in the glass. The ripe palate shows dried black cherry, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside solid, assertive tannins. Drink 2019–2025.
Aromas of underbrush, clove and mature black-skinned fruit lead the nose on this accessible, medium-bodied wine. Notes of nutmeg and peppercorn add interest to the juicy blackberry and black cherry flavors, while supple tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of underbrush, crushed blue flower and a whiff of barnyard lead the nose. These carry over to the palate along with spiced plum, mature black cherry, black pepper and game, with brooding tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, this is evolving quickly so drink soon.
Aromas of underbrush, cut grass, Mediterranean scrub, red currant and spice take center stage along with a hint of menthol. The soft approachable palate offers blackberry, black currant, star anise, vanilla and white pepper alongside bright acidity and supple tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, dark-skinned berry, espresso menthol and scorched soil lead the nose. On the elegant, structured palate, firm, polished tannins carry dried black cherry, raspberry, cinnamon toast and a touch of anise. Drink 2017–2023.
Aromas of underbrush, dark-skinned fruit and a whiff of oak lead the nose. The succulent palate presents black plum, fleshy morello cherry, cinnamon and a hint of mocha alongside pliant tannins and zesty acidity. It's easy drinking, vibrant and delicious. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of underbrush, espresso and toasted oak carry over to the palate along with raw red berry. But there's not enough fruit richness to stand up to the astringent tannins and racy acidity.
Aromas of underbrush, espresso, menthol and aromatic herb lead the nose. The straightforward, easy-drinking palate shows red berry, hazelnut, white pepper and a slightly green note of dried sage alongside firm acidity and not very persistent tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, espresso, spiced plum and toasted oak lead the nose. The smooth palate doles out juicy black cherry, coffee, vanilla, cinnamon and mocha alongside firm, polished tannins and bright acidity. Hold for complexity. Drink 2016–2023.
Aromas of underbrush, espresso, vanilla and plum cake set the stage. The palate offers black cherry, exotic Asian spice, licorice and sugared vanilla alongside bitter wood tannins. Veritas Imports, Tanaro River Imports, Crown.
Aromas of underbrush, grilled mushroom, blue flower and menthol lead the nose. The linear palate offers dried plum, mature blackberry, espresso and licorice while firm tannins provide support. It finishes on a note of graphite.
Aromas of underbrush, grilled mushroom, blue flower and menthol lead the nose. The linear palate offers dried plum, mature blackberry, espresso and licorice, while firm tannins provide support. It finishes on a note of graphite.
Aromas of underbrush, leather and blue flower lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 15% Colorino and Canaiolo. The fresh, easy-drinking palate delivers wild cherry, raspberry and a hint of licorice alongside supple tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, black-skinned fruit and tobacco lead the nose. The firm, structured palate offers mature blackberry, black cherry, coffee bean and licorice alongside a tannic backbone. It closes on a mineral note.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, crushed blue flower, incense and balsamic notes lead the nose on this gorgeous wine. The palate delivers succulent black cherry layered with white pepper and clove alongside bracing tannins. Drink 2019–2034.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, dried plum, a whiff of French oak and a balsamic note lead the nose. The firm palate offers dried cherry, cranberry, licorice and espresso set against close-grained that leave a firm, rather drying finish.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, flint, wild berry and a balsamic note mingle in the glass. The structured palate delivers dried cherry, crushed raspberry, grilled herb and anise alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Hold for additional complexity; drink 2018–2035.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, mature berry, grilled herb and fragrant blue flower lead the nose. The juicy palate offers layers of fleshy black cherry, raspberry compote, cake spice and licorice alongside chewy tannins. Drink 2018 through 2023.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, oak spices and espresso lead the nose on this structured wine. The firm palate is still tightly wound, revealing roasted coffee bean, licorice, dried cherry and assertive tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, scorched earth and dark berry lead the nose of this firmly structured blend of Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and 5% Mammolo. The chewy palate offers a juicy core of black cherry accented with notes of black pepper, licorice and grilled herb. Tightly knit, ripe tannins provide structure.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, tar and game lead the nose. The earthy aromas carry over to the palate along with mature plum, juicy black cherry, truffle, tobacco and graphite. Smooth tannins soften up the wine's rustic, forward nature.
Aromas of underbrush, leather, truffle and a balsamic note lead the nose on this lush wine. On the concentrated palate, ripe plum and blackberry take center stage while notes of vanilla, mocha, licorice and clove play supporting roles. Velvety tannins generate a smooth texture and make it extremely approachable. Drink through 2019.
Aromas of underbrush, mature berry, new leather, blue flower and menthol emerge in the glass. On the firmly structured palate, an intense mineral vein of iron underscores dried black cherry, white pepper, dried sage and star anise. Austere fine-grained tannins provide the taut framework.
Aromas of underbrush, Mediterranean scrub and moist earth lead the nose. The lean palate offers unripe sour cherry, dried sage and a hint of orange peel alongside bracing acidity and tightly wound tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, menthol and a whiff of cellar floor carry over to the palate, along with dried cherry and licorice. Astringent tannins provide support.
Aromas of underbrush, menthol, dark fruit, violet and a note of exotic spice take shape in the glass. The chewy palate delivers ripe cherry, pomegranate, white pepper, herb and a truffle note while fine-grained tannins provide support and polish.
Aromas of underbrush, mushroom and dried tobacco leaves lead the nose. The muddled palate delivers a clash of flavors including dill, sugary vanilla, bitter dark chocolate, sweet oak and espresso alongside green tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, Porcini mushroom and a hint of toast emerge in the glass. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, star anise and mocha alongside assertive tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, porcini mushroom, scorched earth and prune lead the nose on this full-bodied wine. The concentrated palate offers blueberry extract and black plum, while notes of mocha and black pepper add depth. It's still young, with big, chewy tannins and enough fresh acidity to age another decade or more. Drink 2015–2024.
Aromas of underbrush, pressed violet, blackberry, baked earth and new leather lead the nose of this classic wine. The structured, elegant palate offers succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, clove and a hint of anise alongside tightly knit but polished tannins that need to unwind. It's already tempting but give this time to develop even more omplexity. Drink 2017–2030.
Aromas of underbrush, prune toast and a whiff of crushed blue flower lead the way. The somewhat evolved palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and a hint of espresso alongside dusty tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, red berry, cooking spice and Mediterranean brush lead the nose on this structured, polished wine. The firm palate delivers wild cherry, tobacco, savory herb, white pepper and a balsamic note alongside supple tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
Aromas of underbrush, red berry, tilled soil and a whiff of menthol come together on this. The easygoing, vibrant palate offers black cherry, espresso and a hint of star anise alongside zesty acidity and polished tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, ripe black fruit, clove and cedar come together in this Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah blend. The palate offers raisin, prune, mint and black pepper alongside lean, drying tannins. This is already drying out so drink soon.
Aromas of underbrush, ripe dark-skinned berry, violet, leather and aromatic herb lead the nose. The ripe, full-bodied palate doles out black cherry, cranberry, licorice, espresso and a sprinkling of mocha alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas of underbrush, ripe dark-skinned fruit, clove, espresso and a balsamic note lead the nose of this structured Sangiovese. The generous palate delivers juicy black cherry, blackberry, licorice and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas of underbrush, ripe plum, baking spice and a whiff of leather take center stage. The round, savory palate offers mature black cherry, raspberry, ground pepper and a smoky note while firm, dusty tannins lend support. Drink 2018–2013.
Aromas of underbrush, ripe plum, chopped herb, dark spice and espresso meld together with a balsamic note. The firmly structured palate offers dried cherry, prune, coffee and clove alongside tightly knit close-grained tannins that leave a grippy finish. You'll also notice the warmth of evident alcohol on the close.
Aromas of underbrush, rose petal, dark berry, baked earth and game lead the way. The firm, fresh palate delivers juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and licorice while assertive but refined tannins add a solid grip to the finish.
Aromas of underbrush, rose petal, flint and dark spice waft out of the glass. The structured elegant palate offers red-cherry, raspberry, clove and star anise flavors set against fresh acidity and a firm backbone of refined tannins. Give this time to let the nervous energy calm down and you'll be rewarded with even more complexity. Drink 2020–2035.
Aromas of underbrush, sawdust, toast and espresso lead the nose. The palate offers raw red berry, licorice and oak alongside bracing tannins that leave an astringent finish.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth and dark baking spice lead the way on this firmly structured wine. The tense, full-bodied palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, leather and tobacco supported by bracing, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2019–2029.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth and ripe black-skinned fruit take center stage on this bold Barolo. The generous palate is already inviting, offering ripe black cherry, crushed black plum, licorice, ground pepper and sweet pipe tobacco. Velvety tannins provide the framework and lend a polished texture. Thanks to the fruit richness and freshness, you'd never guess it contains 15% avb.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, eucalyptus, mature berry and dark spice lead the nose. There's not a lot of fruit richness but the spicy palate offers licorice, black pepper and sage alongside grippy tannins that leave a firm, drying finish.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, French oak and a whiff of new leather lift out of the glass. The powerfully structured palate offers dried black cherry, toast, espresso and dark spice alongside firm fine-grained tannins. It's still a bit austere so give it a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2020–2025.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, game, woodland berry and a balsamic note lead the nose. The youthful, tightly wound palate offers black cherry, crushed raspberry, anise, chopped herb, clove and tobacco alongside firm, noble tannins and bright acidity. Oliver McCrum Wines and Petit Pois.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, mature dark berry, menthol and dark baking spice lead the nose. The full-bodied palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, chewing tobacco and clove while ripe, bracing tannins provide structure. Drink 2019–2029.
Aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, toasted hazelnut, dark spice, menthol and new leather emerge in the glass. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, raisin, coffee and chewing tobacco while fine-grained tannins provide the framework. It finishes on a slightly bitter note.
Aromas of underbrush, sea breeze, crushed herb, toast and leather lead the way on this earthy, refined red. On the palate, star anise, clove, grilled sage and a hint of game add depth to the black cherry core. Polished, silky tannins provide the framework while a saline note closes the finish. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of underbrush, stewed prune and baking spice waft out of the glass. The smooth, enveloping palate doles out dried black cherry, raspberry jam, pipe tobacco and cinnamon framed in velvety tannins that lend polished support. A cocoa note closes the finish.
Aromas of underbrush, sunbaked earth, ripe dark-skinned berry and cake spice slowly emerge on this structured red. Made entirely with Sangiovese, the full-bodied palate delivers juicy black cherry, cinnamon, chopped mint, leather and tobacco. Velvety tannins provide structure and a polished mouth feel. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas of underbrush, tilled earth, mature dark-skinned berry and rose lead the nose. The ripe, smoothly textured palate doles out raspberry jam, clove, star anise and a hint of orange peel alongside velvety tannins. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of underbrush, tilled soil and ripe black fruit lead the nose. The palate doles out ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, coffee and a confectionary note alongside ripe tannins. A licorice note marks the finish.
Aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, leather, red berry and mint come together in the glass. The focused palate delivers dried cherry, licorice, tobacco, grilled sage and a precise mineral vein alongside chewy but fine-grained tannins. It's still young and tightly wound but should open up over the next few years. Drink 2016–2023.
Aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, toast and espresso lead the nose. The firmly structured palate offers ripe black cherry, blackberry, coffee, anise and grilled herb alongside assertive tannins that need to unwind. Drink 1016–2020.
Aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, woodland berry and crushed rose unfold in the glass. The firm palate offers mature red cherry, strawberry, clove, mint and licorice alongside tightly knit, austere tannins that need to unwind. It's still young and wound up but should evolve majestically over the next decade and then maintain for years. Drink 2020–2040.
Aromas of underbrush, toast and dark-skinned fruit lead the nose of this easy-drinking red. The bright, informal palate offers red cherry, pomegranate and a hint of white pepper alongside zesty acidity.
Aromas of underbrush, toast, black plum and cooking spice lead the nose. The dense, extracted palate offers blackberry, prune, licorice, mocha and grilled sage alongside velvety but rather fleeting tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, toasted oak, coffee and a whiff of roasted herb emerge on this. The brawny palate displays dried black cherry, hazelnut, anise and vanilla alongside astringent tannins that leave a tongue-drying finish. A green note of powdered sage marks the close.
Aromas of underbrush, tobacco leaf, leather, wild berry and a balsamic note take the lead. The palate offers juicy Morello cherry, black raspberry, licorice and sage alongside rather astringent tannins.
Aromas of underbrush, tobacco leaf, scorched earth, menthol and ripe berry lead the nose. The palate delivers juicy black cherry, raspberry, grilled herb, anisette and white pepper alongside round tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of underbrush, tobacco, baked earth and a whiff of pressed rose float from the glass. The round, full-bodied palate delivers dried berry, licorice and clove alongside ripe tannins. It's balanced but it also shows the heat of the vintage and is already almost accessible. Drink 2017–2021.
Aromas of underbrush, tobacco, sunbaked earth and mature black-skinned fruit lead the nose on this fantastic, firmly structured red. On the concentrated palate, notes of licorice, graphite and clove add depth to the core of mature black cherry. Drink 2019–2024.
Aromas of underbrush, tobacco, used leather, scorched earth and a suggestion of oak slowly take shape in the glass. On the palate, round velvety tannins underscore raspberry compote, dried cherry and baking spice. It's rather forward so drink over the next several years.
Aromas of underbrush, violet, dried sage and leather lead the nose. The palate is a bit closed but offers dried cherry, prune, licorice and espresso alongside firm but fleeting tannins. Reflecting the heat of the vintage, it's evolving quickly.
Aromas of underbrush, wild berry, dried herb and a balsamic note take shape in the glass. The round palate doles out crushed black cherry, ripe plum, sage and clove alongside soft acidity and polished tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of underbrush, wild flower, leather and ripe berry lead the nose. The juicy palate offers black cherry, cinnamon, anise and a hint of game alongside fresh acidity and velvety tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of vanilla-baked apple makes for an inviting, mellow white wine whose richness is tempered by a structured, almost phenolic palate. Made from an indigenous Austrian variety, it's versatile and will shine when served with hearty, rich foods.
Aromas of vanilla-flecked and butter-laced pastry filled with cassis sauce show on the nose of this rich blend of 62% Syrah and 38% Mourvèdre from the Bien Nacido and Jada vineyards. The sip is very well structured by upright sticky tannins, which hold up flavors of crushed gravel and slate and a piquant boysenberry jam.
Aromas of vanilla and Animal crackers are light on fruit. Delicate on the palate, this offers lychee and tropical fruit flavors that suggest Torrontés. A pithy finish is braced by bright acidity.
Aromas of vanilla and animal crackers come with a note of white flowers. This wine feels lush, round and a touch clingy. Flavors of pineapple, melon and vanilla finish full and sticky, with the right amount of cutting acidity.
Aromas of vanilla and baking spice are followed by ample red fruit and spice flavors. The acids are tart, giving the wine a zing.
Aromas of vanilla and baking spices are out in front of fruit leather, herbs and peppery spices. Flavors are exceptionally sweet and ripe, lingering on the finish. Drink now.
Aromas of vanilla and baking spices take the lead, followed by dark fruit. The palate is all about texture, showing a creamy richness to the fruit and barrel flavors that linger. The oak plays a prominent role but it generally works.
Aromas of vanilla and cocoa mix with red fruit. The fruit flavors are full and palate coating but the oak seems a little too intense at times.
Aromas of vanilla and coconut share space on the nose with ripe notes of blackberry and prune. This feels just fresh enough, with ample body. Ripe berry, raisin and chocolate flavors end a touch flat.
Aromas of vanilla and pear are mild on the nose. This feels heavy and chunky, with low acidity. Vanilla, melon and papaya flavors taste as though they're on the way out, while this soft Chardonnay feels oily on the finish.
Aromas of vanilla and stewed berries lead into a palate that features more of the same: sweet wood and overripe raspberries. Syrupy and simple.
Aromas of vanilla and wood spice lead to elegant, somewhat dried out and dilute fruit flavors, followed by a short finish.
Aromas of vanilla bean, coconut and cocoa meld with cherry cola and dark fruit. The palate has tart, focused cranberry and cherry flavors with a restrained, velvety feel.
Aromas of vanilla extract, cinnamon, fennel and fruit leather predominate on this Syrah and Merlot-dominant blend. The palate shows a surprising amount of richness considering the coolness of the vintage, with baking-spice flavors carrying through the finish.
Aromas of vanilla extract, cocoa and fruit leather lead to full-feeling cherry, woodspice and barrel flavors. Mocha and cherry flavors show a good balance that carries through the finish.
Aromas of vanilla, baking spice, custard and pear lead to dry straw flavors. It delivers easy-drinking pleasure.
Aromas of vanilla, baking spice, herb and dark fruit lead to tart, full cranberry and cherry flavors. Coffee notes linger on the finish and the tannins provide a gentle grip.
Aromas of vanilla, baking spice, wood spice and pitch-black fruit are followed by power-packed fruit and barrel flavors. The oak is primary at present. Give it time to integrate. Best after 2021.
Aromas of vanilla, black cherry, toasted coconut and graphite give little insight into a flavor profile that is dominated by ripe cherry and red raspberry. Fruit flavors reign strong, with just a touch of toasty spice on the bright finish.
Aromas of vanilla, butter and barrel spice are followed by lightly styled fruit and barrel flavors. The concentration seems faint.
Aromas of vanilla, char and toast lead to light creamy stone fruit and canned-corn flavors. It provides appeal but the oak seems overweighted.
Aromas of vanilla, cherry and cola start this impressive Cabernet Franc from Cooper. On the palate, pepper, cherry and spice is balanced and assertive. A lingering finish of cedar and plum adds to the appeal.
Aromas of vanilla, clove, coffee and dark raspberry lead to a mouthful of rich layered fruit flavors. It shows impressive concentration, with fruit flavors lingering on the long finish.
Aromas of vanilla, cocoa and dark berries lead to full-bodied and velvety coffee, cherry and dark fruit flavors. The oak plays prominently but this wine is still pretty hard to resist.
Aromas of vanilla, cocoa and woodspice are at the fore. The palate starts out broadly but then trails as it moves toward the finish. This wine doesn't entirely come together.
Aromas of vanilla, cocoa, cashew and dried herb start out light and elusive but open up over time. Meanwhile the cherry flavors are sweet and creamy in feel, backed by firm, somewhat dry tannins.
Aromas of vanilla, coconut and clove mix with dark fruit and black pepper on this fruit-and-barrel-style wine. It's full bodied and high octane, needing more fruit intensity to balance it out.
Aromas of vanilla, coconut and raspberry are followed by tart, mouthwatering cranberry and raspberry flavors. The wood is a bit primary but the flavors bring enjoyment.
Aromas of vanilla, coconut and wood spice lead to wood-filled flavors. The barrel notes are in complete control.
Aromas of vanilla, coconut, barrel spice and dark fruit are followed by plentiful black-fruit flavors. It brings a lot of appeal, mixing fruit and barrel.
Aromas of vanilla, coffee, coconut and wood spice lead to full-bodied cherry, chocolate and vanilla flavors. Fruit and barrel flavors linger on the finish. The wood shows prominently but it largely works.
Aromas of vanilla, coffee, cranberry, fresh herbs and licorice are out front on this Syrah (38%), Petite Sirah (38%), Mourvèdre, Grenache and Roussanne blend. The coffee flavors are tart and spritely yet full, showing a good sense of balance and an acid-driven finish.
Aromas of vanilla, herb, cocoa and barrel spice lead the nose of this attractive Cab. The well-balanced palate offers coffee and dark fruit flavors that transition seamlessly into a lingering finish.
Aromas of vanilla, herbs, black cherry, plum and dried cheese are sturdy and nice. This feels expansive, with chewy weight. Oaky flavors of vanilla, blackberry and dark plum are leathery and finish long, spicy and toasted. Drink through 2022.
Aromas of vanilla, marshmallow and milk chocolate dominate subtle berry scents. This feels grabby, creamy and medium in body, with pushy flavors of clove and woodspice leading generic black-fruit notes. For basic Malbec, this is quite oaky.
Aromas of vanilla, mocha, dried herbs, pencil lead and flowers rise up from the glass. Rich and hedonistic in style, it's full of concentrated cherry and coffee flavors that pack a hefty punch.
Aromas of vanilla, new oak and coconut lead the nose on this blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The palate offers dried cherry, vanilla, roasted coffee bean and espresso alongside evolved tannins.
Aromas of vanilla, oak, white flower, hay and pear lead the nose of this blend of 30% Sauvignon, 30% Chardonnay, 30% Incrocio Manzoni and 10% Nebbiolo. The unusual palate offers citrus, Alpine herbs, dried apple, candied lemon, a hint of tropical fruit and a coffee note that lingers on the close. The rich flavors are brightened by racy acidity.
Aromas of vanilla, pickling spices, green pepper and dark fruit are followed by tart cherry flavors. It shows both the elegance of the vintage and the power of the appellation.
Aromas of vanilla, prune and nutmeg lead the nose on this robust Merlot. The dense, monolithic palate offers raisin, leather and licorice alongside the heat of evident alcohol and drying tannins. It's shy on freshness and fruit richness so drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas of vanilla, spice box, raspberry, dill and wood spice are followed by medium-bodied cherry flavors that linger.
Aromas of vanilla, spice box, toast and jammy red fruit are followed by quite elegant fruit flavors. The tannins seem a bit bunched up.
Aromas of vanilla, stewed red berry, leather, cheese and heat indicate a ripe wine entering it's peak years. This is tannic and grating in the mouth, with syrupy flavors of prune and chocolate. The finish carries a baked character along with flavors of raisin and liqueur. Drink now.
Aromas of vanilla, toast, mocha and plum come together in the glass. The palate offers dried black cherry, prune, espresso, toasted oak and oak-driven spices but the fruit flavors are already drying up.
Aromas of vanilla, toasted almond and white-peach juice prepare your palate for flavors of citrus blossom, apricot and pear. The finish has crisp acidity and pronounced minerality.
Aromas of vanilla, wood spice and dark fruit are followed by generous but still restrained black-fruit flavors. It shows a pretty sense of balance.
Aromas of vineyard dust, red cherry and a hint of cake spice meld together on this. The round, easy drinking palate delivers raspberry jelly, clove, grilled herb and a hint of anise alongside lithe tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of violet and red currant lead the nose on this bright, fruity red. The simple, vibrant palate delivers blackberry, cranberry and ground pepper alongside lithe tannins. It's made to be drunk young so enjoy soon.
Aromas of violet and red currant waft from the glass. The fresh, juicy palate delivers wild cherry, strawberry and an herbal note alongside bright acidity and soft tannins. It finishes with an almond accent.
Aromas of violet petal and gamy berry fruits come with a strong oak-based whiff of sawdust. This feels blocky and generically big, while saucy berry flavors taste roasted, with a strong hint of clove. On the finish, this remains roasted and saucy tasting.
Aromas of violet, black-skinned berry and a touch of fresh mint lead the nose on this juicy red. The savory palate delivers ripe blackberry, nutmeg and licorice while fresh acidity and silky tannins provide balance. Enjoy through 2022.
Aromas of violet, black plum and cassis lead the nose on this nearly opaque, purple-colored wine. The lively, one-dimensional palate offers black cherry, blackberry and a hint of black pepper alongside brisk acidity and a framework of tight tannins.
Aromas of violet, blackberry and baking spice take center stage. The chewy, concentrated palate offers plum, mature black cherry, ground pepper and clove alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of violet, blueberry and baking spice almost explode from the glass. The medium-bodied palate tastes of raspberry, cassis and clove while round tannins and fresh acidity give it balance. It's made for sheer drinking pleasure so enjoy soon.
Aromas of violet, chocolate, woodland berry, leather and a whiff of meat juices lead the nose on this full-bodied wine. On the palate, juicy black cherry and crushed raspberry take center stage while accents of espresso, cedar, white pepper and menthol play supporting roles. It's balanced with bright acidity and assertive tannins. Drink 2016–2022.
Aromas of violet, cured meat, sage and a whiff of underbrush lead the nose. The light simple palate offers up cranberry, sour cherry and a hint of orange zest alongside both firm acidity and relaxed tannins.
Aromas of violet, dark-skinned berry and baking spice are the highlights. On the bright, juicy palate, soft velvety tannins frame mature black cherry, blackberry and a hint of cocoa.
Aromas of violet, earth, plum and spiced berry lead the nose. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, white pepper and clove alongside assertive tannins. Drink 2016–2022.
Aromas of violet, forest floor, ripe berry and a whiff of new leather emerge on this structured red. The ripe, full-bodied palate delivers mouthfuls of juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice, menthol and white pepper set against a backbone of assertive but velvety-textured tannins. Drink through 2018– 2026.
Aromas of violet, iris, forest floor, woodland berry and allspice lead the nose on this structured, savory wine. The concentrated palate delivers ripe black cherry, mocha, clove, tobacco and licorice alongside velvety tannins and fresh acidity. It's firm and well balanced.
Aromas of violet, iris, ripe black-skinned fruit, dried grape and a whiff of tobacco lead the way on this full-bodied charmer. The smooth, structured palate delivers dried cherry, raspberry compote, licorice and cake spice while velvety tannins provide support.
Aromas of violet, plum, mint and sun-baked earth lead the nose of this blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo and 5% Ciliegiolo. The lively, elegant palate delivers juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and white pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins.
Aromas of violet, red berry and a whiff of sage lead the nose on this blend of 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and 10% Canaiolo. On the palate, round tannins offset black cherry and a note of white pepper. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of violet, ripe plum and a whiff of espresso lead the nose of this straightforward red. The easygoing palate offers dried cherry, crushed raspberry and a hint of ground pepper alongside fresh acidity and dusty, rather fleeting tannins.
Aromas of violet, rose and woodland berry emerge on this fragrant wine. Made solely with the Sorbara grape and refermented in the bottle, the vibrant palate offers woodland berry, cherry, nectarine zest and a hint of crystallized ginger alongside firm acidity and a frothy mousse.
Aromas of violet, underbrush and baking spice lead the way. The savory palate doles out black cherry, clove and white pepper set against firm tannins and lively acidity. Enjoy soon.
Aromas of violet, underbrush, graphite, mature dark fruit and Asian spice lead the nose on this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese. The ripe, smooth palate offers crushed plum, black cherry, clove and ground pepper alongside velvety tannins.
Aromas of violet, wild red berry and dark cooking spice lift out of the glass. The aromas carry over to the soft, straightforward palate accompanied by mellow but rather fleeting tannins.
Aromas of violet, wild strawberry and red raspberry carry through to the palate alongside hints of tea and rosemary. It's balanced and approachable with silky tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas of violet, woodland berry and forest floor open this straightforward wine. The juicy palate doles out crushed black cherry lightly accented with notes of baking spices. It's dense and delicious but not an ager, so enjoy soon.
Aromas of violet, woodland berry, a hint of coffee and a whiff of adhesive bandage carry over to the simple palate. It's a bit lean and diluted, with fleeting tannins.
Aromas of violets and cherries are intoxicating on this intensely concentrated yet elegant Bordeaux-style blend. Dry in style with hints of crushed granite and spice, it's balanced with spritely acidity and a ruffle of soft, delicate tannins.
Aromas of violets, blackberry and black currant jam are solid, while the palate shows sharper acidity than most Bonardas, and thus a juicy sensation along with flavors of snappy black cherry and boysenberry. Fresh and forward, with a lot of fruit and potency.
Aromas of waffles and corn flakes suggest maturity and complexity. This feels open and wide, with depth to the palate. Direct flavors of lime and tangerine finish more citric and minerally than the nose, with a lasting sense of freshness.
Aromas of warm peach custard meet with baked yellow apples, banana flambé and caramelized fruit on the nose. Baked pears and slightly sour tangerine rinds show on the intriguing sip that may need some time in bottle to become fully appreciated.
Aromas of watermelon and a dusting of natural vanilla mark the bouquet. On the palate, it's fleshy but still crisp and focused, with nectarine, red apple and strawberry flavors. The finish lasts, with some sweetness.
Aromas of waxy apple skin and white melon rind lead the nose, though a soft lemon oil accent unfolds in the back after the wine warms. The mouthfeel is round yet lifted, with ripe melon and sweet citrus flavors that are balanced by a good acidic cut to the finish. Drink now.
Aromas of waxy stone fruits and gasoline announce a wine with issues. This Viognier feels citric and racy, with little body given the grape type. Flavors of lemon, lime and pickle brine finish with sour grapefruit notes.
Aromas of weedy underbrush, oak, menthol and a toasted note emerge in the glass. On the lean, one-dimensional palate, suggestions of vanilla and bitter almond accent raw sour cherry.
Aromas of weedy underbrush, toast, menthol and cherry marinated in spirits emerge in the glass. The palate shows raw sour cherry and a hint of licorice alongside raspy tannins that dry out the finish.
Aromas of well-toasted oak, cinnamon, crushed stones, cassis and plum form a fine nose. This is bullish on the palate, where heavy tannins clomp along. Savory flavors of tree bark, herbs and blackberry finish woodsy, with lightly stewed plum notes and hints of oregano and thyme. Drink from 2017–2025.
Aromas of wet cement, pencil eraser, plastic, vanilla and jammy blueberry come in front of a racy palate with pronounced acidity and flavors of spiced cherry, plum and herbs. A long finish with power beats its chest before flattening out and turning heavy.
Aromas of wet cement, plastic and berry fruits are derivative of heavy oak. This feels as weighty as the nose, but with creaminess. Roasted black-fruit flavors share the stage with campfire and clove, while oak and clove are the dominant flavors on a forceful, heavy finish.
Aromas of wet cement, plum, blueberry and cherry come with moderate oak. This feels wide and grabby, with no definitive focal point. Spicy earthy slightly exotic berry and plum flavors finish with grabby tannins and juicy acidity.
Aromas of wet cement, spicy oak and generic berry fruits make for a rubbery, earthy whole. This wine is jammy and flabby in feel, with peppery berry and oak spice flavors. It lacks character.
Aromas of wet clay, herbs and jammy berry fruit are the opening act. The palate is bulky and sweet, with less-than-precise flavors of red fruits and brown sugar. Finishes baked and fiery, with some roughness. Good but that's about as far as it goes. Imported by Winelink Imports Corp.
Aromas of wet clay, spice and soft black fruits carry the bouquet, while the palate is plump and easygoing, with mildly herbal cassis and black-fruit flavors. If you don't mind a little overt, heavy oak then this four-grape blend headed by Cabernet will do the trick.
Aromas of wet dog and a whiff of skunk are hardly the stuff of legend. In the mouth, this is well cut and crisp, with fresh acidity and a controlled bubble bead. Briny flavors of celery, lettuce and scallion finish fresh, green and lean.
Aromas of wet earth, leafy underbrush and dark berry lead the nose on this informal red. The simple palate is rather diluted but offers notes of dried black cherry, orange peel and nut alongside zesty acidity.
Aromas of wet leaves, toast, prune and espresso lead the nose. The evolved palate offers fig, coffee bean, a hint of anise and a confectionary note alongside fleeting tannins. It's a bit muddled, with a short finish.
Aromas of wet rock, chewing gum and mild citrus fruits are straight down the middle. This feels modest, while cottony flavors of citrus and watermelon finish short and easy.
Aromas of wet stone, citrus and honeysuckle are light and elusive while the palate brings a full, rounded feel that trails toward the finish. There's enjoyment to be had but it's more about texture and feel than fruit flavor.
Aromas of wet stone, smoke and petrol seep evocatively into the sweet pineapple bouquet. The palate is dry but deeply concentrated with a ripe stone fruit character. Finishes briskly with a bracing lime juice acidity.
Aromas of wheat and straw are leesy and show little fruit. Seeing that this is from 2007, the fruit hit the road years ago; what's left is acidity, leesy hints, stone-fruit notes and peach-pit bitterness. With the right food and on the right occasion, this will work well. Otherwise, it's a novelty. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of white cherry and strawberry lead the nose of this wine, with hints of peach and honeydew that lend richness. A mentholated thread adds interest to the palate, alongside a soft astringency that couples with notes of melon rind and citrus peel on the finish.
Aromas of white clover, carnation and lime leaf lead the nose of this crisp and easy white. Fruity tones of underripe peach and melon rind unfold on the palate, coupled with zippy lime-like acidity and a saline streak that lifts the close. Drink up.
Aromas of white currant and green pear are combined with accents of pine and citrus blossom in this blend of Vidal Blanc, Traminette, Viognier and Petite Manseng. The medium-bodied palate tastes off-dry (50g/L residual sugar), and the acidity feels tempered by the sweetness. It finishes with a tropical fruit flavor, a tang of minerality and energy.
Aromas of white flower and citrus follow through to the racy palate alongside juicy grapefruit, green pear and a mineral note. Zesty acidity gives it a tangy finish.
Aromas of white flower and peach pulp reinforce this sparkler's overall softness and creaminess.
Aromas of white flower, beeswax, pear and a hint of vanilla lead the nose. The medium-bodied palate offers crisp yellow apple, citrus zest and a mineral note alongside tangy acidity.
Aromas of white flower, citrus zest, chopped basil and sage lead the nose on this stunning wine while the vibrant, full-bodied palate shows nectarine zest, mineral, dried apricot and lemon drop. Firm acidity bestows a clean, crisp finish.
Aromas of white flower, citrus, pear and light notes of oak-driven spice lead the nose. The palate offers a nice depth of flavor, including citrus zest, exotic fruit, yellow peach and candied lemon drop. It's well balanced, with fresh acidity.
Aromas of white flower, citrus, pineapple, crushed rock and tinge of medicinal herb lead the nose on this vibrant white. The vertical palate offers green apple, lemon-lime and mineral that follow through to the white almond finish. It's linear and balanced thanks to racy acidity.
Aromas of white flower, crushed herb, fennel and cut grass emerge on this vibrant white. The bright palate shows citrus zest, mint and mineral alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of white flower, crushed rock and pear lift out of the glass. Dry and refreshing, the palate offers yellow apple, acacia and a hint of citrus alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of white flower, green pear and flinty mineral mingle in the glass. The bright palate offers creamy Granny Smith apple, nectarine, sage and a light mineral note. Bright acidity gives it a clean finish.
Aromas of white flower, hazelnut and orchard fruit follow over to the savory palate along with mature pear, lime zest and smoke. A mineral note signals the finish.
Aromas of white flower, herb and apricot lead the nose. Made solely with Chardonnay, the palate delivers yellow apple, citrus and roasted nut paste alongside a soft mousse. Bitter walnut marks the finish.
Aromas of white flower, tropical fruit and an herbal note lead the nose on this medium-bodied white. The juicy, generous palate doles out ripe pear, tangerine, mineral and white almond. Soft but fresh enough acidity offsets the creamy flavors.
Aromas of white flower, tropical fruit and peach mingle in the glass. The round, juicy palate offers stone fruit, green apple and mineral alongside bright acidity. The lingering finish has a note of ginger drop.
Aromas of white flowers and mild tropical fruits turn more gritty with time. In the mouth, this Viura is dilute but not empty. Flavors of Bartlett pear, lime and nectarine finish tangy and lean.
Aromas of white flowers and oily melon set up an agile palate with racy citric acidity. Pithy citrus and green-herb flavors are a touch salty. The wine is fresh with an herbal flavor on the finish.
Aromas of white flowers and ripe banana lead the way to flavors of tart green apple and melon. The finish is pleasant but slightly acidic.
Aromas of white flowers are light yet clean. This feels basic, while the flavors are greener and more pyrazinic than the nose indicates, especially on the finish, which tastes of bell pepper and white fruits.
Aromas of white flowers lead into crisp lemon and grapefruit flavors. This has a fresh tang from the light prickle on the tongue, along with ripe peach and apple skin flavors. Drink now.
Aromas of white flowers, baking spices, pear and a whiff of toasted nuts waft from the glass. The crisp palate serves up juicy yellow apple, toasted walnut and yeasty notes of freshly baked bread alongside brisk acidity and vibrant, persistent bubbles.
Aromas of white flowers, jasmine, and lemon pith give way to pleasant acidity in the mouth. There are flavors of green apple, lemon curd and pear in the medium length finish.
Aromas of white flowers, lychee and grapefruit peel lead to dry fruit flavors that seem to lack concentration, with a bitter note on the finish.
Aromas of white flowers, stone fruits and lees are typical of well-made Albariño. A juicy, elegant palate with a mix of citrus and stone-fruit flavors is lasting, with a hint of pithy character coming up on the finish.
Aromas of white flowers, tangerine, honey and ginger are vibrant on this cryo-frozen wine. The flavors are sweet, tapering toward the finish.
Aromas of white flowers, wild mountain herbs and a hint of white stone fruit come together on this crisp, racy sparkler. The vivacious palate delivers lemon zest, lime and pear alongside brisk acidity and vigorous bubbles.
Aromas of white flowers, with a hint of exotic fruit lead on the nose. The lively, refreshing palate offers pineapple, apricot and Golden Delicious apple alongside racy acidity.
Aromas of white fruit and citrus lead, followed by semi-sweet tropical fruit and citrus flavors with a touch of acidity. Fresh-tasting and friendly, this makes for a great summer sip. Serve with Asian cuisine, grilled foods.
Aromas of white fruits and apple are slightly mealy and set up flavors of melon and tangy but pithy citrus. The finish is even more pithy. Overall this wine feels like it's starting to fade.
Aromas of white grapefruit, celery and other prickly fruits lose steam with airing, while the green apple and lime flavors are solid and offer some sweetness. Wet in the mouth, which is what you want, but standard fare as a whole.
Aromas of white gum drop and funky yeast set up a slightly cloying palate, with a candied flavor of pear. It transitions to notes of banana, mango and powdered sugar on the finish. A blend of Malvasia and Viura.
Aromas of white orchard fruit, spring wildflower and a hint of nut unfold on this bright wine. The round, structured palate tastes of Williams pear, apple and a bitter almond note alongside fresh acidity.
Aromas of white peach and apple come with mild oak notes. This feels melony and full, with its body weight dictated by tropical fruits. Briny, salty tropical fruit and corn flavors finish with a lasting note of oak.
Aromas of white peach and apple lead to bone-dry fruit flavors. It provides a lot of appeal.
Aromas of white peach and apricot set the scene for flavors of white peach, freesia and thyme. This wine is full in the mouth, with a floral flourish on the bright finish.
Aromas of white peach and citrus lead the nose. The bright, simple palate offers suggestions of Anjou pear and a hint of tangerine alongside lively acidity.
Aromas of white peach and dusty minerals lead to a chunky palate that struggles to maintain its shape and cut. Pithy, lightly bitter peach and citrus flavors end with the sensation of licking a peach pit.
Aromas of white peach and honeysuckle yield to flavors of grapefruit, peach, jasmine and orange blossom. This wine is smooth in the mouth and the zesty finish is characterized by lingering floral flavors.
Aromas of white peach and vanilla highlight this rich-textured, rather full-bodied white wine. It's made in a generous rather than crisp style, as if it were barrel fermented, and a buttery lushness defines it more than the fairly subtle fruit flavors. Very tasty overall.
Aromas of white peach, banana, yellow apple and candied lemon peel carry over to the creamy, rather sweet palate along with a confectionery note. Fresh acidity lifts the rich flavors while a hint of almond gives it a slightly bitter finish.
Aromas of white peach, flint and hint of banana carry over to the round, ripe palate along with green apple and a note of juicy tangerine. Fresh acidity brightens the creamy flavors and leads to a bright, clean finish.
Aromas of white peach, honeysuckle and butterscotch are clean but quite plump on the nose of this widely available bottling. Tons of ripe stone fruit show on the palate, along with juicy apples and warm melons, cut by only the slightest acidity.
Aromas of white peach, nectarine and vanilla bean join fresh fruit flavors backed by nuances of caramel, vanilla and crème brûlée. There's nice round mouthfeel and a creamy yet clean finish.
Aromas of white pepper and nettle are about as fresh as it gets. The rest is falling off, with bitterness and oxidation. Acceptable but bland and bitter on the tail end.
Aromas of white pepper and pear start it off, and it smells snappy and inviting. The palate is all about grapefruit and orange; in a word, it's citrusy. The finish comes in waves, with notes of stone fruit and licorice. As a whole it's round and satisfying, but it's also a tad bit dilute and dull, which is why it rates where it does.
Aromas of white pepper, dried herb, flowers and dark fruit lead to a full-bodied palate, loaded with dark-cherry flavors. The tannins provide some grip.
Aromas of white pepper, herbs and grass lead to bone-dry flavors and tart acidity. It doesn't quite stand on its own but should perk up nicely at the dinner table.
Aromas of white rose and jasmine lead the nose. The palate isn't bone-dry, delivering ripe apricot, exotic fruit, juicy citrus zest and a honey note.
Aromas of white rose, sage, citrus and grapefruit carry over to the palate along with ripe peach and orange zest. It's semisweet and lightly sparkling, with a slightly sweet finish and a frothy mousse.
Aromas of white spring blossom and pear lead the nose on this bright, straightforward Pinot Grigio. The palate offers tart green apple and citrus alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of white spring flower and apple delicately lead the nose on this refreshing white. The apple note follows through to svelte, polished palate along with pear and mineral. Crisp acidity gives it a clean, invigorating finish.
Aromas of white spring flower and citrus zest rise out of the glass while the palate offers ripe yellow apple and a note of candied lemon drop. Foaming bubbles provide a soft backdrop.
Aromas of white spring flower and yellow stone fruit lead the nose on this bright straightforward white. It's simple but well made, with flavors of yellow peach and a hint of dried herb alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of white spring flower and yellow stone fruit lead the way on this easygoing but generous white. The round, juicy palate offers mature peach, ripe pear and a white almond note. Fresh acidity balances the creamy flavors.
Aromas of white spring flower and yellow stone fruit waft out of the glass. The easygoing frothy palate doles out apricot, citrus and medicinal herb alongside a soft mousse.
Aromas of white spring flower, exotic fruit and an herbal note waft out of the glass. The medium-bodied palate offers white peach, pear, vanilla and toasted oak alongside modest acidity. A citrusy note closes the finish.
Aromas of white spring flower, honeydew melon and citrus lead the way. The savory palate doles out white peach, juicy tangerine, aromatic herb and white almond alongside tangy acidity. A saline note closes the finish.
Aromas of white spring flower, mature orchard fruit and a whiff of graphite float out of the glass. The fresh, concentrated palate doles out ripe white peach, mature Granny Smith and Bosc pear while mineral and almond notes back up the finish.
Aromas of white spring flower, mint and orchard fruit lead the way. Bright and silky, the refined palate delivers yellow apple, peach and Bartlett pear set against crisp acidity and a refined perlage.
Aromas of white spring flower, oak-driven vanilla and a whiff of white stone fruit lead the nose. The oak sensations follow through the somewhat lean palate, along with pear and a confectionery note. It closes on a note of bitter almond.
Aromas of white spring flower, orchard fruit and citrus spill out of the glass. The fun lively palate delivers ripe yellow peach and green apple alongside a foaming mousse.
Aromas of white spring flower, yellow pear and apple follow the straightforward palate along with a hint of citrus. A light touch of almond signals the close.
Aromas of white spring flowers and ripe pear lead the way on this vibrant sparkler. The lively palate delivers crunchy green apple and citrus zest alongside persistent bubbles and bright acidity.
Aromas of white spring flowers, grapefruit and Bartlett pear lead the nose. The bright palate offers lime zest, green apple and a note of white peach alongside bright acidity and a foaming mousse.
Aromas of white spring flowers, orchard fruit, citrus and a hint of bread crust lead the nose. The creamy palate offers nectarine zest, ripe yellow apple and toasted walnut accompanied by a firm, refined perlage.
Aromas of white spring flowers, ripe Bartlett pear and roasted almond take the lead. The juicy, round palate offers lemon pastry, juicy golden apples and a nutmeg note alongside fresh acidity. It finishes on a slightly sweet note recalling glazed brown sugar.
Aromas of white wild flower and chamomile float out of the glass along with a whiff of orchard fruit. The ripe round palate offers juicy Bartlett pear, golden apple and peach. A note of bitter almond wraps up the finish.
Aromas of white wild flower and exotic fruit spring from the glass. The lively fruity palate doles out honeydew melon and juicy grapefruit alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of white wild flower and golden apple waft out of the glass while the juicy palate offers Bartlett pear and a hint of nectarine. Fresh acidity gives it a tangy finish.
Aromas of white wild flower, white stone fruit, lemon zest and Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this vibrant white. The juicy palate offers succulent peach, pear and nectarine while crisp acidity gives it a clean, refreshing finish. It closes on an almond note.
Aromas of whole green pepper, hot spice, cherry and baking spice are followed by lighter styled, tart, silky-feeling fruit and barrel flavors.
Aromas of wild berries, violets and a whiff of spice lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 15% Merlot. The savory, easygoing palate offers mature black cherry, clove and black pepper alongside lithe tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of wild berry and a whiff of Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this young easygoing red. The fresh straightforward palate offers ripe strawberry and white pepper alongside bright acidity and silky, soft tannins. Drink now.
Aromas of wild berry and a whiff of pressed spring flower lead the nose on this casual wine. The vivacious, slightly fizzy, palate offers black cherry and a candied citrus peel note alongside tangy acidity.
Aromas of wild berry and animal hide unfold on the nose. In the mouth, this blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot is heady and offers tons of berry and cassis fruit. The finish is rich and borderline syrupy, with thickness and depth but not a lot of complexity.
Aromas of wild berry, blue flower and cooking spice lead the nose on this quintessential Barbaresco. The palate has youthful tension, showing black raspberry, dark cherry, licorice, chopped mint and menthol alongside firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas of wild berry, blue flower, tilled soil and a whiff of dark spice lead the nose on this luminous wine. Savory and smooth, the easy-drinking palate presents black cherry, star anise and clove while bright acidity and polished tannins provide the sleek framework.
Aromas of wild berry, clove and white pepper lead the nose on this fresh rosato. The juicy palate delivers candied wild cherry, crushed raspberry and a cinnamon note alongside refreshing acidity.
Aromas of wild berry, crushed aromatic herb and a whiff of dark spice slowly take shape in the glass. On the firm linear palate, tight youthfully austere tannins support tart sour cherry, cranberry, anise and freshly ground clove. This still needs a few years to fully open and develop. Drink 2022–2032.
Aromas of wild berry, dark spice and leather lead the nose. The solid palate shows ripe black cherry, cassis, clove and coffee beans alongside firm tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of wild berry, espresso, dark spice and French oak take center stage while the firmly structured palate delivers raspberry jam, licorice, tobacco and coffee along with a slightly green note of powdered sage. Assertive fine-grained tannins provide an austere backbone. Drink 2019–2027.
Aromas of wild berry, floral notes and light spice shadings make for a very nice balance. The wine is tannic, dry and raw in the mouth. It should be paired with melted chèvre cheese on baguette.
Aromas of wild berry, forest floor, new leather, grilled herb, menthol and dark spice all come together on this full-bodied red. The structured palate is still young but shows great depth, offering mature black cherry, tobacco, clove and licorice framed in youthfully assertive tannins that give it an age-worthy structure. Drink 2022–2040.
Aromas of wild berry, graphite, dark cooking spice and grilled herb lead the nose. The concentrated palate shows dense black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice, clove, toast and a hint of espresso accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Aromas of wild berry, leather, sunbaked earth, star anise and a balsamic note of menthol lift out of the glass. The robust, powerful palate offers fleshy blackberry, wild cherry, cinnamon, nutmeg and tobacco alongside chewy tannins. Despite the juicy fruit, there's a warmth of alcohol on the finish but it doesn't dominate.
Aromas of wild berry, menthol, baking spice and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the tightly wound palate, bracing tannins support raw cherry, anise, tobacco and a hint of coffee alongside firm acidity.
Aromas of wild berry, moist soil, menthol and a hint of dark cooking spice lead the way on this fresh, easy drinking red. The medium-bodied palate doles out juicy wild cherry, anise and herb accompanied by polished tannins.
Aromas of wild berry, pressed violet, leather, underbrush and a balsamic note lead the nose. The firmly structured palate is still closed but reveals dried red cherry, raspberry, clove, oak, sage and vanilla alongside bracing tannins and firm acidity. The warmth of alcohol is evident on the midpalate. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas of wild berry, rose, citrus and savory herbs lead the nose of this Sicilian sparkler. The vibrant, savory palate offers crushed strawberries, sour cherries, pastry, nectarine, wild mint and mineral alongside a soft, persistent mousse and lively acidity.
Aromas of wild berry, spice, aromatic herb, leather and a balsamic note are some of the aromas you'll discover on this firm red. The structured, savory palate offers mature black raspberry, sour cherry, black pepper, aniseed and mint alongside youthfully assertive, polished tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas of wild berry, underbrush and a balsamic note come together on this. On the full-bodied palate, notes of espresso, mocha and vanilla add depth to the black cherry core. Firm tannins provide the framework.
Aromas of wild berry, underbrush and a whiff of camphor emerge in the glass. The palate delivers tart cherry, red raspberry, clove, anise and ground pepper alongside youthfully assertive but refined tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas of wild berry, underbrush and tobacco lead the nose on this classically crafted Barolo. The full-bodied palate delivers juicy Morello cherry, ripe black raspberry, baking spice and licorice alongside a network of ripe, assertive tannins and firm acidity. Drink 2018–2026.
Aromas of wild berry, violet and a hint of Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. The structured palate offers mature black cherry, a hint of orange zest and cooking spice alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.
Aromas of wild berry, violet and forest floor carry over to the easygoing palate. It's soft and quaffable, with supple tannins and vibrant acidity. Enjoy now with hearty pasta dishes or thick Tuscan soups.
Aromas of wild berry, violet, rose and Mediterranean herb lead the nose of this easy drinking, polished red. The juicy palate doles out blackberry, black cherry, white pepper and star anise while bright acidity and supple tannins offer support. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of wild cherry, blue flower and a hint of cinnamon unfold in the glass. The no-frills palate offers black cherry, sage and a note of white pepper alongside soft, rather fleeting tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas of wild cherry, leather and truffle are quintessential Barolo. On the palate, rich black cherry, raspberry, vanilla, cocoa, balsamic herbs, sage and black pepper all come together supported by brooding tannins and brisk acidity. Best after 2020.
Aromas of wild cherry, raspberry, alpine herb and a balsamic note take center stage. The sleek, elegant palate doles out ripe strawberry, rosemary, graphite and a hint of baking spice alongside supple tannins.
Aromas of wild cherry, raspberry, rose, grilled herb and a balsamic note follow through to the firm palate along with fresh mint and orange zest. Fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors.
Aromas of wild flower and green apple lead the nose on this lightly sparkling wine. The frothy palate offers Bartlett pear, yellow peach and grapefruit alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of wild flower, black fruit and toast lead the nose on this dense wine. The one-dimensional palate offers mature black cherry, dried plum, coffee and a hint of licorice alongside chewy but fleeting tannins.
Aromas of wild flower, pink grapefruit and savory herb lead the nose. The palate is a bit lean, but reveals citrus, raw cherry and a hint of sage.
Aromas of wild flower, tropical fruit and a whiff of beeswax lift out of the glass. The crisp palate offers citrusy notes of lemon and lime as well as yellow apple. A saline note gives it a savory finish.
Aromas of wild flowers, honey, lychee and oily citrus fruits announce a minerally palate with steely yet tropical flavors of citrus and lychee. This is better cut than most, with racy acidity that keeps things running on the finish. Drink now.
Aromas of wild flowers, wisteria and a hint of peach lead the way on this creamy sparkler. The rich, vibrant palate doles out white peach, yellow pear and green apple framed in bright acidity and a frothy mousse. A note of candied nectarine zest signals the close.
Aromas of wild herb, citrus, flint and orchard fruit lead the nose on this polished white. The bright palate offers up Bosc pear, sage, energizing mineral and a note of lemon zest. It's well balanced, with crisp acidity.
Aromas of wild herbs, dry brush, rubber, oak and berry fruits come prior to a pointed palate with high acidity and choppy tannins. Flavors of creamy oak support racier currant and red-plum notes, while this Carignan-Garnacha-Syrah blend tastes oaky, spicy and thorough on the finish. Drink through 2021.
Aromas of wild raspberry, smoked meat and oregano lay the groundwork for flavors of raspberry, black cherry, thyme, rosemary and smoked meat. There is an interesting yet sophisticated array of fruit and herbal flavors, and the burst of orange zest on the finish complements the soft but ever-present tannins.
Aromas of wild red berry, pressed violet and a whiff of baking spice flow through this simple, easygoing wine. On the easy-drinking palate, round tannins support mature black cherry, cinnamon and a hint of mocha. Drink through 2017.
Aromas of wild red berry, sun-baked earth and dark cooking spices blossom in the glass. The medium-bodied, elegant palate delivers juicy wild cherry, crushed black raspberry, baking spice and grilled herb while smooth, polished tannins provide support.
Aromas of wild rose, baked apple and bread crust lead the nose on this deeply hued rosé. The vibrant palate offers raspberry, raw strawberry and an intense note of orange peel alongside zesty acidity and a persistent perlage.
Aromas of wild rose, chopped mint and an earthy whiff of grilled Porcini mushroom slowly emerge. The taut, austere palate shows cranberry, raw sour cherry, star anise and clove framed in firm acidity and tightly wound, close-grained tannins that clench the finish. This needs time to unfurl and fully develop. Drink after 2023.
Aromas of wild rose, moist soil, Alpine herb and menthol lift out of the glass. The firm palate offers tart sour cherry, espresso, thyme and toasted hazelnut while tight fine-grained tannins provide the lean wiry framework. It closes on an astringent note.
Aromas of wild strawberry, rose petal, clove and a hint of tangerine unfold in the glass. On the fresh palate, notes of licorice and leather accent a core of black cherry offset by silky tannins. Enjoy soon to capture the vibrant flavors.
Aromas of wildflower, hay, stone fruit and citrus lead the nose. The vibrant palate delivers tart Granny Smith apple, juicy citrus and peach alongside crisp acidity. The clean finish closes on an almond note.
Aromas of wildflower, orchard fruit and hazelnut open on the nose. The lively, linear palate shows crunchy green pear, bitter almond and a hint of nutmeg alongside racy acidity.
Aromas of wilted white flowers and ground herbs are followed by off-dry drinking fruit flavors, with peanut shell notes on the finish.
Aromas of wisteria and green apple lead the way on this straightforward white. The tangy palate tastes of juicy pear, citrus and a hint of white almond while zesty acidity and a mineral note give the finish a slight lift.
Aromas of wisteria and white stone fruit lead the nose. On the bright palate, brisk acidity and a lively perlage provide a racy backdrop for yellow apple and citrusy notes. A hint of bitter almond marks the close.
Aromas of wisteria, Bartlett pear and a whiff of chopped sage lead the nose on this luminous wine. The foaming palate is both linear and rich thanks to crisp green apple, juicy white peach and banana that are offset by racy acidity.
Aromas of wisteria, jasmine, orchard fruit and a whiff of mountain herbs lead the nose. The creamy palate offers yellow apple, white peach, sage and a note of candied lemon drop alongside a soft mousse and bright acidity.
Aromas of wisteria, white stone fruit and a hint of acacia lead the way. The crisp, quenching palate delivers yellow apple, juicy pear and a hint of mineral alongside firm acidity and a persistent perlage.
Aromas of wisteria, wild flower and citrus lead the way while the dry refreshing palate doles out yellow apple, Bartlett pear and lemon peel. It has a lively perlage while crisp gives it clean, bright finish.
Aromas of wisteria, young Bartlett pear and citrus lead the nose on this quenching sparkler. The racy, elegant palate offers grapefruit, green apple and lime alongside tangy acidity and an energized perlage. An almond note closes the finish.
Aromas of withered white rose, resin and dried stone fruit mingle with an unusual whiff of paraffin. On the sweet, concentrated palate, orange blossom honey emphasizes the dried apricot and citrus zest.
Aromas of wood-grilled peach, baked apple and sweet orange oil waft from the glass, all laced with threads of toasted oak and baking spice. The ample acidity keeps the palate lively and the finish fresh, although the woody accents dominate the close once the ripe fruit flavors subside.
Aromas of wood aging and ripe yellow fruits are a fine pairing for this wine that comes from the slopes above Meursault. With its textured character, apricot and peach flavors and tight acidity, this is a serious and complex wine that demands aging. Drink from 2015.
Aromas of wood dominate this 100% Merlot aged in oak for 12 months, which also shows on the palate. It is concentrated and firm with acidity although not much fruit yet. Give this wine until 2017. Franck Cot took over the family estate in 1996. The vineyard was certified sustainable in 2011.
Aromas of wood grain, minerals and apple set up a creamy, plump palate with leesy apple, pear and melon flavors. This barrel-fermented Verdejo is mild, creamy, leesy and steady on the finish, which holds form and doesn't break up.
Aromas of wood grain, vanilla, butter and fino Sherry are elegant and attractive for this style of white Rioja. On the palate, this oak-aged Viura is smooth, while creamy flavors of oak, apricot and peach excel. A smooth finish with plenty of vanilla and core acidity indicates this will age well for another 10 years.
Aromas of wood shop and anisette dominate the nose. The palate is evolved, offering prune, pomegranate, vanilla, oak extract and roasted coffee bean but no fruit richness.
Aromas of wood shop, coffee and espresso all carry over to the palate along with oak extract and toast. It lacks the fruit richness necessary to stand up to the oak.
Aromas of wood shop, espresso and licorice lead the nose. The firm palate delivers oak extract, licorice, clove, dried black cherry and sage alongside tightly-knit, drying tannins. It has structure but not much fruit richness remains.
Aromas of wood shop, espresso, toast, clove and a hint of dried black cherry all carry over to the palate. Bracing, astringent tannins give it an abrupt, drying finish.
Aromas of wood smoke and grilled meat set up bold smoky, peppery flavors in this complex, spicy and full-bodied wine. The savory beefy aspects are a pleasure to taste and there is a good foundation of mild tannins and solid cherry flavors.
Aromas of wood spice, black licorice, graphite and blackberry are followed by cranberry and cherry flavors. It shows a fine sense of balance.
Aromas of wood spice, dill, vanilla and cherry are at the fore. The palate mixes jammy fruit with barrel flavors. The two seeming to tussle a bit. The wood wins out on the finish.
Aromas of wood spice, herb and cherry lead to rich, palate-staining black-fruit flavors. It shows a lovely sense of balance.
Aromas of wood spice, herb, smoke, baking spice and cherry lead to pretty, polished fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze.
Aromas of wood spice, plum and herb lead to black-fruit flavors and chalky, dry tannins that make it hard to access.
Aromas of wood spice, plum and herb lead to black fruit flavors and chalky, dry tannins that make it hard to access.
Aromas of wood spice, tar, green herbs and black cherry lead to plump fruit flavors. Grainy dry tannins provide support.
Aromas of wood, citrus peel and oak-related coconut introduce a choppy bumpy palate with raw acidity. Lean dry tart red-fruit flavors come with peppery spice and oak notes, while this finishes with earthy berry flavors and rubbery choppy tannins.
Aromas of woodland berry and alpine herb lead the nose on this lively red. The vibrant palate displays red woodland berry and a hint of nutmeg, while supple tannins and bright acidity offer easygoing support and balance.
Aromas of woodland berry, alpine herb and crushed flower lead the nose. The palate offers red cherry, rosemary and green tea, while fine-grained tannins provide support.
Aromas of woodland berry, baking spice, orange zest, crushed rose and a whiff of balsam come together in the glass. It's savory and elegant, with tightly wound, fine-grained tannins that support ripe wild cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, mineral and menthol.
Aromas of woodland berry, damp earth and a whiff of cellar floor lead the nose. The firm lean palate offers raw cherry, powdered sage and a hint of white pepper set against bracing tannins and racy acidity. Give the tannins a few years to unwind then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas of woodland berry, forest floor, spice and a toasted note lead the nose of this blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot. The elegantly structured palate offers dried black cherry, licorice, clove and espresso alongside tightly knit but polished tannins. Drink 2017–2027.
Aromas of woodland berry, iris and menthol lift out of the glass. Vibrant and linear, the focused palate offers cherry, cranberry, wild herb and white pepper framed in firm tightly wound tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2023–2033.
Aromas of woodland berry, pressed rose petal and alpine herb lead the nose. The firm palate offers dried cherry, anise and espresso alongside mellow, buffed tannins.
Aromas of woodland berry, toast, clove and chopped herb emerge in the glass. The palate is still rather closed, eventually giving up raw red berry, coconut, espresso, oak and grilled sage alongside tightly wound, astringent tannins. Give this a few more years to open up. Drink 2018–2024.
Aromas of woodland berry, violet, underbrush and a hint of tilled earth lead the nose. The savory palate doles out fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, spice and a tobacco note. Firm but polished tannins support the juicy flavors.
Aromas of woodshop, coconut and oak extract lead the nose. The warm palate offers up prune, toasted oak and a confectionary note but no fruit richness. Mouth-puckering tannins and evident alcohol provide the framework.
Aromas of woodshop, spearmint, baking spice, pressed flower and a whiff of bacon lead the nose on this dense wine. The palate delivers oak, blueberry extract, vanilla, coffee and a confectionary note, but there's not enough fruit richness to stand up to the oak spices.
Aromas of woodspice, cedar, cranberry and cherry are at the fore on this 100% varietal wine. It shows concentration, finesse and polish, with dry, chewy tannins lending support.
Aromas of woodspice, char, pickling spices and herbs are out in front of red and black fruit. The flavors are light and appealing, but ultimately the oak provides distraction.
Aromas of worn saddle leather and stewed blackberries and raspberries come with some volatility. Overall, the palate feels taut and tense. Tart acids cut the finish short and kick the salivary glands into overdrive.
Aromas of yeast, grape skins and dust are less than compelling but not offputting. This is a high-acid, shearing type of rosé, tasting citrusy and a bit sour. A mild orange flavor is found on a crisp, racy finish.
Aromas of yeast, talcum powder and grass set up a palate of pithy citrus and pyranzinic flavors that are green and grassy. The finish on this Sauvignon Blanc, a grape you don't see too often in hot Jumilla, is green-flavored and snappy.
Aromas of yeasty pastry, powdered sugar and apple pie come prior to a nervy palate with a mix of tropical melon and papaya flavors along with salad-like garden notes. Flavors of green herbs are prominent on the finish.
Aromas of yellow apple and a yeasty whiff of bread crust lead the nose on this lightly sparkling, bottle-fermented wine. The aromas carry over to the crisp straightforward palate along with lime, a hint of almond and racy acidity.
Aromas of yellow apple and pear lead to dry, well-balanced fruit flavors. It pulls up a bit on the finish but still provides easy-drinking appeal.
Aromas of yellow apple, Bosc pear and melon lead to a textured, flavorful palate and a finish that lingers. It's a spot-on example of the variety and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Aromas of yellow apple, bread crust, ginger and grilled sage all carry over to the palate. Assertive bubbles and brisk acidity leave a clean finish.
Aromas of yellow apple, toast and walnut lead the nose and carry over to the simple palate along with notes of dried bread crumbs. Vigorous bubbles provide a somewhat abrasive texture.
Aromas of yellow apple, tropical fruit and a whiff of dried herb emerge and follow through to the linear palate. Fresh acidity provides the framework while a thyme note provides backup.
Aromas of yellow flower and acacia honey take center stage on this bright wine. The zesty palate offers pineapple, peach and citrus alongside racy acidity that gives it a tangy finish.
Aromas of yellow flower and orchard fruit take center stage in this round, medium-bodied white. The spicy palate offers yellow apple, citrus zest and a note of candied ginger alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas of yellow flower and tropical fruit mingle together in the glass. The vibrant palate offers banana, pineapple and citrus alongside bright acidity.
Aromas of yellow flower, beeswax and a whiff of tropical fruit guide the nose, while bright acidity supports the yellow peach and pineapple flavors. It closes on a note of bitter almond.
Aromas of yellow flower, candied orange zest and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. On the enveloping palate, a ginger note accents baked Gala apple and eucalyptus honey. Fresh acidity brightens the rich flavors.
Aromas of yellow flower, citrus and dried herb float out of the glass. The palate is a bit on the lean side, offering lime, grilled sage and bitter almond alongside zesty acidity.
Aromas of yellow flowers, lemon drop, nectarine, yellow peach and balsamic notes carry over to the palate along with pink grapefruit and mineral sensations. Crisp acidity gives balance and structure.
Aromas of yellow fruit and a whiff of toasted hazelnut lead the way on this dessert wine. A blend of 60% Grechetto and Procanico, 35% Sauvignon and 5% Sémillon, the rich palate delivers dried apricot and acacia honey along with a note of candied tangerine zest.
Aromas of yellow melon and flowers form the core of the bouquet, with additional hints of straw and grapefruit peel in the background. The light-weight palate offers good balance, with rich tropical-fruit tones of pineapple and mango that finish clean and mouthwatering.
Aromas of yellow melon, faint wood and just a touch of nuttiness greet the nose on this bottling from Daniel LeFrancois' globetrotting brand. Barrel smoke hits the front of the palate, then evolves into golden pear and marzipan with a slightly oxidized but pleasant finish.
Aromas of yellow peach, melon and fresh straw pave the path on the nose of this wine. The palate takes a surprising turn, with bright, zippy acidity and a bitter, pithy lime flavor that lingers through and lends a light texture to the finish. Drink now–2018.
Aromas of yellow pear, Spanish broom and a whiff of honeyed nut float from the glass. The medium-bodied palate shows good weight and depth for the cool wet vintage, offering golden apple, nectarine zest and bitter almond framed in vibrant acidity. It finishes crisp and clean, with an underlying pinning of flint on the close.
Aromas of yellow stone fruit and chopped Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this fragrant sparkler. The frothy palate doles out juicy yellow peach, mature apricot, thyme and a hint of candied tangerine zest alongside fresh acidity.
Aromas of yellow stone fruit and Spanish broom lead the nose while the juicy palate offers mature yellow peach, citrus, pineapple and a hint of almond. Bright acidity provides balance and a crisp finish.
Aromas of yellow stone fruit and toasted almond lead the nose. The ripe round palate mirrors the nose, offering mature apricot, peach, nut and a honey note.
Aromas of yellow stone fruit, chopped herb and white flower lead the nose. The savory creamy palate doles out juicy peach, candied nectarine zest, sage and mineral alongside a softly foaming perlage. Fresh acidity brightens the rich flavors.
Aromas of yellow stone fruit, white spring flower and a whiff of citrus lift out of the glass. The soft round palate offers ripe apricot, yellow peach and a hint of candied nectarine zest.
Aromas of yellow wild flower, pear and grapefruit follow over to the simple off-dry palate along with apple and a candied lemon note. Racy acidity refreshes the rich flavors.
Aromas offer an assortment of high-toned black licorice, woodspice and dark-cherry notes. The rich black-fruit flavors reflect the warm vintage while staying in balance.
Aromas offer raspberries, stemmy herbs, jalapeño and spice while the palate brings plush and lightly sweet cherry and blackberry flavors.
Aromas on this Barbaresco from the Roncaglie cru are perfumed and fragrant and recall bee's wax, lavender, potpourri, violet, anise, cinnamon and ginger. This is a delicate and feminine expression with sour notes of cherry and wild berry on the close and firm, dusty tannins.
Aromas on this wine are faint with notes of soda water, vanilla and peach. The stone-fruit flavors seem washed out and dilute.
Aromas on this wine are quite shy at first, but then reveal dried black cherry, dust, turned earth, with a touch of tar and cedar. The palate is very dark and dry, with bitter chocolate, elderberry and more cedar, showing impressive structure.
Aromas pop, with notes of starfruit, cantaloupe, apple, butter and spice. The palate is broad with a lightly creamy feel, speckled throughout with cardamom notes.
Aromas recall a closed cellar, leafy underbrush and raisin. The lean palate offers stewed prune, nutmeg, cedar and black pepper alongside firm tannins.
Aromas recall acacia flower, chamomile and beeswax. The palate offers subtle lemon-lime, notes of yellow peach, toast and a hint of sage. You'll also notice evident alcohol.
Aromas recall black plum, raisin, dark spice and floral notes. The palate offers blackberry, bitter prune and black pepper accents alongside tightly-wound tannins that leave a drying finish.
Aromas recall black plums marinated in spirits, red berries, toast and a hint of espresso. Reflecting the precocious nature of the vintage, the fleshy palate seems fast forwarded, offering sweet black cherry layered with baking spices alongside tame acidity and restrained, fleeting tannins. It's savory and already accessible so enjoy soon.
Aromas recall blue flower, new leather, truffle and crushed raspberry. The bright palate offers wild cherry, cake spices, alpine herbs and a sprinkling of cocoa. It's well balanced and fresh with firm but fine tannins.
Aromas recall blue flower, tilled earth and a whiff of game. The bright palate offers up crushed black cherry accented with sweet baking spices alongside fresh acidity and supple tannins.
Aromas recall cellar floor, dried black fruit and a hint of black pepper. The palate tastes old, offering prune and clove alongside angular tannins but without much fruit richness.
Aromas recall crushed raspberry, anisette, tilled earth and a whiff of cellar must. The soft palate doles out ripe black cherry, licorice and white pepper alongside polished tannins. It doesn't have much complexity but it's savory and already enjoyable. Drink through 2017.
Aromas recall crushed raspberry, blue flower, tilled soil and clove. The round palate doles out dense, dark cherry, cinnamon and balsamic notes. Soft and accessible, it will drink best through 2015.
Aromas recall crushed tomato vine, hay, stone fruit and even a whiff of bell pepper. The palate delivers mature white stone fruit and cantaloupe lightly accented with aromatic herbs.
Aromas recall dried herbs, blueberry, dill and vanilla. The palate brings rich blue fruit and cocoa flavors backed by firm, slightly dry tannins.
Aromas recall exotic fruit, lemon blossom and slate. The crisp palate offers tart green apple, tangerine and lime zest alongside bright acidity.
Aromas recall fennel, grilled herb, leather, mocha and a whiff of balsam. Reflecting the heat of the vintage, the palate is already evolved but still shows dried black cherry and black pepper. Drink through 2017.
Aromas recall floral air freshener, ripe black berries, spice and menthol. The palate offers sweet blackberry extract accented with notes of grilled herbs and mocha alongside raspy tannins.
Aromas recall forest floor, mature black-skinned fruit, leather, resin and tilled earth. The warm, round palate doles out ripe red cherry marinated in spirits, cinnamon, carob and grilled herb alongside polished tannins. It's extremely accessible so enjoy soon.
Aromas recall forest floor, violet, berries and a whiff of leather. The juicy fruit palate offers sour cherry, black raspberry and plum accented with hints of cinnamon-spice alongside polished tannins. It's ready, so drink soon.
Aromas recall fragrant spring flowers, white tree fruit and mineral. The linear palate delivers ripe pear and juicy yellow apple while fragrant herbs and mineral add depth.
Aromas recall freshly chopped herbs such as thyme and parsley, with a very likable hint of pine tar as well. That mix of tree resin and Italian herbs comes through on the palate too, making for a flavorful and stand-out wine.
Aromas recall grilled pepper, red currant and exotic spice. The palate delivers dried black cherry, toasted oak, roasted coffee bean, anisette and espresso alongside the heat of evident alcohol. It lacks fruit richness to stand up to the oak, while raspy tannins give it an astringent, mouth-drying finish.
Aromas recall honeysuckle, green apple and aromatic herbs. The elegant palate offers concentrated yellow peach, apricot, lemon zest and a vein of pure minerality alongside crisp acidity. It's nicely balanced with a lingering finish.
Aromas recall jasmine, botrytis and tangerine. It drinks medium sweet with honeyed fruit flavors and a clipped finish.
Aromas recall leafy forest floor, toasted oak, cured meat and a whiff of farmyard. The ripe, one-dimensional palate shows dried black cherry, vanilla and a confectionary note, with round but not very persistent tannins. Drink soon.
Aromas recall lemon blossom, hay and citrus. The succulent palate offers white peach and apple accented with a light mineral note. It ends with a hint of apricot.
Aromas recall mature dark berry, stewed plum, underbrush, leather and a hint of game. The firm palate delivers juicy wild cherry, cinnamon, clove, licorice and rolled pipe tobacco alongside youthfully assertive but fine-grained tannins. Drink 2020–2030.
Aromas recall meat juices, toasted oak, berries, espresso and cooking spices. The palate serves up wild cherry accented with cinnamon, sage, thyme, coffee and oak alongside just enough fresh acidity and assertive tannins. Drink 2015–2021.
Aromas recall nail polish remover, black cherry marinated in spirits and exotic spice. The thick palate delivers prune, mocha, dark chocolate and coffee bean alongside velvety tannins. It has a long finish and closes on a bitter, nutty note.
Aromas recall nail polish remover, overripe fruit, oak vanilla and coffee. The palate offers black cherry mingled with vanilla, chocolate and sweet oak. However it lacks intensity and persistence and doesn't have an age-worthy structure. It closes on a drying, tannic note before trailing off.
Aromas recall overripe pear, tin, pineapple, grass and mineral. The lightly tropical flavors seem dilute backed by green apple-like acidity.
Aromas recall pine forest, balsam, black berries, sandalwood and menthol. The palate delivers rich red and black cherry layered with black pepper, toast and chocolate alongside bracing, teeth-coating tannins.
Aromas recall plummy blue fruit, mortared dried herbs and a kiss of vanilla. It drinks a hair off dry with abundant black currant flavors and dry, lightly astringent tannins.
Aromas recall pressed rose petal, tilled earth and a whiff of sage. The soft palate doles out raspberry jam, licorice and white pepper alongside polished tannins. There isn't much complexity but it's fresh and already enjoyable. Drink through 2019.
Aromas recall red berry, toast and savory herb. The palate delivers sour cherry, oregano and beet alongside firm tannins that leave a drying finish.
Aromas recall red berry, wildflower and a dash of alpine herb. The palate displays crushed wild cherry, juicy pomegranate and a hint of almond alongside fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink soon.
Aromas recall ripe berry and blue flower with a balsamic note. The structured but seemingly weightless palate delivers layers of ripe raspberry, juicy dark cherry, clove and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. An intense mineral note signals the close. Drink 2017–2027.
Aromas recall ripe berry, violet, leather, oak and spice. The firm palate offers mature blackberry, dried cherry, espresso, roasted coffee bean, licorice and toasted oak. Assertive tannins leave an astringent, mouth-puckering finish. Drink after 2017.
Aromas recall ripe black fruit and a whiff of game. The round palate offers ripe cherry, graphite, crushed blackberry and touch of white pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2016.
Aromas recall ripe dark berry, toast and a whiff of cake spice. The soft, informal palate offers sour cherry, vanilla and a hint of espresso alongside round tannins. Drink soon.
Aromas recall ripe, black-skinned fruit, clove, thyme and a whiff of barnyard. The palate offers mature black currant, black pepper and savory herb alongside firm tannins.
Aromas recall roasted hazelnut, citrus peel and a whiff of apple skin. The palate offers tangy lemon and mature Golden Delicous apple alongside soft acidity.
Aromas recall rose petal, dark berry and orange zest. The palate delivers mature blackberry, cocoa, mocha and a licorice note alongside firm, fine-grained tannins.
Aromas recall spicy plum and black raspberry. The concentrated but balanced palate offers cassis, prune and blackberry, with velvety tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas recall stewed dark fruit, coffee, clove and toasted oak. The palate delivers plum, woodland berry, mocha, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside bracing tannins. It's still tight and tannic so give it time to unwind. Drink 2017–2022.
Aromas recall sweet candy, bordering on cotton candy, with peppermint powder and aromatic flowers in the background. The nose is saccharine and synthetic and the wine is watery and easy in the mouth.
Aromas recall toasted bread crumbs, golden apples and a hint of vanilla. The palate offers Bartlett pear, yellow peach, lemon zest, roasted almond and mineral, but it closes on an unusual medicinal note.
Aromas recall toasted oak, espresso, rubber and roasted herb. The palate offers raw red cherry, vanilla, grilled sage and black pepper alongside astringent tannins.
Aromas recall underbrush, leather, toasted notes and espresso. These carry over to the dense palate along with coffee, crushed black cherry, black pepper and sage. Tightly packed tannins need a few more years to unwind.
Aromas recall underbrush, truffle, violet, tobacco leaf and black berry. The palate offers up red cherry, white pepper, clove, licorice and espresso alongside angular and drying tannins.
Aromas recall white flower and stone fruit. The simple, light-bodied palate offers green apple and a light citrus note.
Aromas recall white spring flower, citrus and a hint of herb. The fresh palate offers nectarine and lemon zest alongside brisk acidity that leaves a clean finish.
Aromas recall white spring flowers and mature pears. The linear palate offers tart Granny Smith, lemon custard and Bartlett pear alongside fresh acidity. It has balance and a clean finish.
Aromas recall wood, coconut, vanilla and coffee. Sweet oak and a mocha note dominate the dense palate but it lacks fruit richness. It's already spent, with abrasive wood tannins that leave an astringent finish.
Aromas recall woodland berry and rose petal. The vibrant palate offers juicy raspberry and almond alongside crisp acidity and supple tannins. Enjoy soon.
Aromas recall yellow flower, stone fruit and Mediterranean brush. The bright palate doles out yellow peach and citrus zest alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas recall yellow pear and tropical fruit together with a touch of vanilla. The palate offers pineapple, citrus zest and Golden Delicious apple alongside bright acidity.
Aromas recalling chamomile flower and acacia honey lead the way. The medium-bodied palate offers candied lemon drop, grapefruit and toasted nut alongside vibrant acidity. Drink soon.
Aromas recalling hay, yellow flower, dried herb and a light vegetal note carry over to the bright, medium-bodied palate along with lime and green apple. A flinty mineral note underscores the vibrant flavors.
Aromas recalling Mediterranean brush, fresh violet, moist soil and a toasted note lead the way. The straightforward palate offers juicy wild cherry, dried sage, espresso and a hint of anise alongside lithe tannins. Enjoy soon.
Aromas recalling pressed rose, grilled herb and scorched soil come together in the glass. The tannic palate is completely closed and rather bitter, revealing only suggestions of powdered sage and the warmth of alcohol.
Aromas recalling Spanish broom and orchard fruit come together on this one. The bright palate offers nectarine, pineapple and yellow apple alongside vibrant acidity while a hazelnut note closes the finish.
Aromas recalling toasted walnut, underbrush and bread crust make themselves known. The vibrant, rather lean palate offers yellow apple, pear and lime alongside small, persistent bubbles and zest acidity. Bitter almond closes the finish.
Aromas recalling underbrush, truffle, leather, toast, red berry and a whiff of blue flower emerge on this bold Brunello. The full-bodied palate shows wild cherry, cinnamon, anise and dried herb alongside youthfully assertive tannins. It's still tight so give it several more years to unwind and develop complexity. Drink 2020–2026.
Aromas recalling weedy underbrush, toast and cured meat take shape in the glass. The palate shows licorice, black-cherry extract and a green note of powdered sage alongside bracing tannins that squeeze the finish.
Aromas recalling woodland berry, underbrush and a whiff of toasted nut lead the nose on this easy-drinking red. The light-bodied, straightforward palate offers tart sour cherry, strawberry and a touch of clove alongside firm acidity and fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2017.
Aromas saturated with roasted berry fruits and leather lead to a firm palate with rough tannins. Savory plum and black cherry flavors finish with integrated spice notes. Given that 2014 was a difficult year throughout Spain, this wines is in good shape; drink through 2019.
Aromas seem a bit locked up, with notes of plum, herb and cedar. The raspberry flavors similarly seem bunched up, with lightly dry tannins providing support. Vanilla flavors linger on the finish. The variety gets a bit lost.
Aromas seem advanced, with notes of cherry liqueur, leather, barrel spices and raisinated dark fruit. The dried-fruit flavors are full with chalky tannins. Drink now.
Aromas seem blunted, but the palate shows both freshness and fruit. This is balanced and comes out with surprisingly friendly apple fruit, finishing on a fresh note.
Aromas show new leather, iris, balsamic notes and aromatic herb. Elegant and structured, the smooth taut palate offers sour cherry, cranberry, clove and a hint of licorice set against tightly knit polished tannins. It's still youthfully austere so give it a few more years to let it bloom into a beauty.
Aromas span from black fruit, to spice to smoked ham and the wine is soft and velvety on the finish. This thick and luscious Syrah offers a ripe and sunny wine experience that would pair with succulent steak or pork roast.
Aromas steadily emerge on this bottling of mountaintop grapes, with golden apple oil, condensed honeysuckles, lemon bars and dried mango slices showing the slightest hint of tropicality. The palate is equally deep, with soft white peach sliding into sea salt, dried apples and nut oil, all culminating in a warm, lengthy browned-butter finish.
Aromas suggest bath soap, peach and pear. The palate is friendly but blocky, while the flavor profile runs sweet, with a sugary dosage. Hints of nectarine and mango work the finish.
Aromas suggest berry fruits, spice. A full, creamy, grabby palate is weighty, while flavors of varied black fruits are oaky and chocolaty. On the finish, this tastes roasted and a bit hot, with a note of salt. This is two-thirds Garnacha along with Syrah and Samsó (Carignan).
Aromas suggest blackberry, cedar and Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, notes of tobacco, licorice, exotic spice and cranberry accent the juicy black-cherry core. It's well balanced and elegant, with silky tannins. Drink 2016–2026.
Aromas suggest bright berry, underbrush, eucalyptus and a whiff of wet fur. The palate starts off strong, with bright red berry and grilled herb but then it falls off, leaving a somewhat hollow midpalate. Despite the lean character, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity make this very drinkable.
Aromas suggest citrus, acacia flower, and hints of vanilla and honey. The creamy palate offers Bartlett pear, sage and lemon drop brightened by fresh acidity.
Aromas suggest coffee, vanilla, oak, savory herb and menthol. The palate offers espresso, roasted hazelnut, dried sage and sour cherry alongside green, astringent tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas suggest compost, murky grit and olive. In the mouth, this wine is heavy and flat. Roasted, underripe berry-fruit flavors finish hot and gritty.
Aromas suggest crushed blue flower, tilled soil, spice and perfumed berries. The savory palate delivers ripe black cherry and wild raspberry alongside notes of clove. Supple and smooth, it will offer easy drinking enjoyment now through 2016.
Aromas suggest cut flowers past their prime and overripe peaches. The disjointed palate offers candied lemon, nectarine zest and a confectionary note. A bitter aftertaste marks the finish. Panebianco, Vinity.
Aromas suggest espresso, dried black currant, cedar and grilled herb. The warm palate offers oak, vanilla, licorice, stewed prune and evident alcohol. There's not quite enough fruit to support the iron-clad tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish.
Aromas suggest exotic fruit, yellow flower and a whiff of Mediterranean herb. The linear palate doles out yellow apple, ginger, thyme and a hint of mineral alongside bright acidity.
Aromas suggest fennel, leafy underbrush, tobacco and licorice. The fruit has already faded quite a bit, revealing tart cherries alongside astringent tannins that generate a mouth-puckering close.
Aromas suggest forest floor, anisette, hay and dill. The palate delivers roasted coffee bean, plum and a hint of mocha alongside evolved tannins.
Aromas suggest fragrant white flowers, stone fruit and spice. The palate offers sweet white peach and pink grapefruit accented with nutmeg and mineral. You'll also detect the warmth of alcohol.
Aromas suggest green apple and melon. This wine drinks dry with a lightly spritzy feel but the flavor concentration seems lacking.
Aromas suggest green pear, yellow flower and a hint of almond. The zesty palate offers unripe yellow peach, exotic fruit and pink grapefruit alongside tangy acidity.
Aromas suggest grilled herb, leather, tilled earth and mature berry with a balsamic note. The palate offers crunchy red berry, menthol, sage and white pepper alongside round but not very persistent tannins.
Aromas suggest honeysuckle and ripe pear. The linear palate offers juicy nectarine, lemon drop and ripe tropical fruit alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas suggest leafy underbrush, espresso and toasted oak. The evolved palate offers coffee, roasted hazelnut and dried red berry alongside fleeting tannins.
Aromas suggest leafy underbrush, oak, vanilla, espresso and ripe berry. The firm palate delivers dried blackcurrant, cranberry, baking spice and toasted oak alongside rather raspy, drying tannins.
Aromas suggest leafy underbrush, tobacco, steeped plum and dried majoram. The palate delivers dried cherry, prune, ground pepper and licorice alongside tightly-knit tannins. The heat of alcohol shows on the finish.
Aromas suggest leafy underbrush, woodland berry and a whiff of Mediterranean scrub. The lean palate offers raw red cherry and the barest hint of clove alongside brisk acidity and drying tannins.
Aromas suggest mature berry, scorched earth, animal, toast and anise. The palate offers ripe black berry, oak, espresso, cocoa and vanilla alongside dusty tannins.
Aromas suggest mature black berry, savory herb and a balsamic note. The palate displays baked plum, black pepper and anisette alongside bracing tannins.
Aromas suggest oak, vanilla, bell pepper and cassis. The palate offers black cherry, cranberry, vanilla, mocha and oak alongside astringent, drying tannins.
Aromas suggest oak, vanilla, plum, espresso and coconut. The tightly wound palate isn't very expressive but offers dried black fruit, roasted coffee bean and clove alongside raspy tannins, with the heat of alcohol on the close.
Aromas suggest passion fruit, crushed tomato vine and cut grass. The palate offers juicy grapefruit, lemon-lime and mint alongside crisp acidity.
Aromas suggest pastry crust, almonds, spice, and lemon zest. The vibrant palate doles out Golden Delicious apple, white grapefruit, clove and toasted walnut alongside smooth, persistent bubbles.
Aromas suggest pencil shavings, resin and mature black fruit. The palate offers prune, dried blackberry and black pepper alongside grippy tannins.
Aromas suggest pineapple, papaya and creamy lemon pastry. The palate offers creamy white peach, pear, almond and a hint of mineral but it finishes on a sweet, sugary note.
Aromas suggest pink watermelon and bubble gum ester, with an intriguing twist of licorice. It's high and tight on the palate with pink lemonade-driven acidity, offering strawberry fruit in the midpalate and more bubble gum on the finish.
Aromas suggest porcini mushroom, espresso and oak. The oak-driven palate offers up roasted coffee bean, vanilla, oak extract, coconut and vanilla alongside astringent wood tannins that leave the mouth feeling dried out. The lack of fruit richness gives it a raw quality.
Aromas suggest pressed white flower, citrus and beeswax. The palate offers citrus zest, dried apricot and lemon drop. It has nice depth but drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas suggest prunes, black cherries, resin and a whiff of exotic spices. The straightforward palate delivers raisins, dried cherries marinated in spirits and roasted coffee bean alongside assertive tannins.
Aromas suggest red and blue fruit along with butterscotch and wood spice. The fruit flavors are sweet and rich with abundant woodspice accents and chewy tannins.
Aromas suggest red berries, white pepper and clove. The round, robust palate delivers juicy wild cherry and hints of Mediterranean herbs alongside dusty tannins. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate. Drink now.
Aromas suggest red berry and plum with a hint of cake spice. The palate is elegant and reserved, offering sour cherry, toast and vanilla alongside fine-grained tannins. It closes on a light mineral note.
Aromas suggest red berry with a touch of vanilla and a balsamic note. The radiant palate delivers wild cherry, baking spice and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside fresh acidity and silky tannins. Drink through 2017.
Aromas suggest red berry, pomegranate and violet. The vibrant palate delivers crushed sour cherry, tangerine zest and a hint of baking spice alongside bright acidity and silky tannins. Enjoy soon.
Aromas suggest ripe blackberry, baking spice, mocha and a balsamic note of menthol. The brooding palate opens with mature black cherry, savory herb and black pepper alongside tightly knit but velvety tannins that still need to unwind. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas suggest roasted coffee bean, toasted oak, fig and vanilla. The palate offers mocha, licorice and oak but not much fruit richness. It's already evolved, with fleeting, drying tannins.
Aromas suggest sandalwood, exotic spice, vanilla, subtle oak and mature black fruit. The warm palate reflects the forward nature of the vintage and delivers underbrush, black cherry, espresso and coffee alongside aggressive, drying tannins. You'll also notice the alcohol on this. Drink after 2019.
Aromas suggest smoke, blue flower, mature berry and baking spice. A blend of 55% Nero di Troia, 30% Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and 15% Bombino Bianco, this has a savory, smoky palate that delivers juicy blackberry, spicy blueberry, clove and graphite alongside sleek tannins. It's delicious and already approachable.
Aromas suggest spring blossom, banana and tropical fruit. The vertical palate offers citrus zest, passion fruit and mineral together with note of white almond.
Aromas suggest stewed plum, grilled herb and mint. The palate offers dried cherry, grilled herb and bitter apple skin alongside dry, astringent tannins. Tried twice with the same notes.
Aromas suggest stone fruit, peach blossom and Spanish broom. On the palate, notes of banana and nectarine accent a core of juicy yellow peach. It's balanced with crisp acidity that leaves a refreshing finish.
Aromas suggest succulent red berry and whiffs of baking spice. The juicy palate doles out wild strawberry, raspberry, watermelon, white pepper and clove highlighted by zesty acidity.
Aromas suggest tilled earth, black-skinned fruit, spice and game. The easygoing palate offers dried plum, blackberry and black pepper alongside hearty tannins.  Drink through 2016.
Aromas suggest tilled soil, mature blackberry, leather, game and allspice. The lively palate offers prune, cherries marinated in spirits, ground black pepper and licorice alongside a firmly tannic backbone and brisk acidity. Drink 2016–2012.
Aromas suggest toast, coconut and plum. The firm palate offers oak, coffee, mocha, dark berry, vanilla and a hint of confectionary alongside polished tannins. An anisette note marks the finish.
Aromas suggest toast, mocha, vanilla, dark-skinned fruit and a whiff of burnt matches. The oak-driven spices carry over to the palate along with a licorice note but not much fruit richness. Astringent tannins provide the backbone.
Aromas suggest toasted oak, espresso, roasted coffee bean and mocha. The warm, concentrated palate offers prune, cherry steeped in spirits, allspice and oak extract alongside assertive tannins, with the heat of alcohol on the midpalate. The fruit richness is drying up fast so drink soon.
Aromas suggest truffle, meat juices, game and toasted notes. The informal palate offers cherry extract, black pepper, mocha and baking spices alongside assertive, drying tannins. It will be better after 2015 when tannins soften up but then drink it soon.
Aromas suggest underbrush, coffee and a hint of meat juices. The palate delivers dense black raspberry accented with grilled herbs, vanilla and light toasted notes alongside the heat of evident alcohol. It's monolithic and ready so drink soon.
Aromas suggest underbrush, crushed berry and moist soil. The palate offers wild cherry, licorice, tobacco, rosemary and sage alongside firm tannins. It still needs to open up and fully develop. Drink 2018–2028.
Aromas suggest underbrush, oak, coconut, prune and dill. The concentrated palate offers steeped plum, dried blackberry, tobacco, cracked blackberry and licorice alongside firm, velvety tannins. It closes on a note of bitter prune.
Aromas suggest underbrush, scorched soil, stewed black fruit, pressed rose petal and a whiff of game. The warm palate offers steeped prune, fig, grilled herb and a leathery note alongside the heat of evident alcohol. Drink 2016–2021.
Aromas suggest violet, black plum, crushed black cherry and wild strawberry. The intense fruit sensations carry over to the palate with a note of white pepper, while robust but fine tannins lend structure.
Aromas suggest wildflower and woodland berry. The fruity palate delivers crushed wild cherry, strawberry and a tangerine note alongside bright acidity. Drink soon.
Aromas suggest wildflowers and orchard fruit. The racy palate delivers yellow apple, unripe pear, citrus and a note of toasted almond alongside brisk acidity.
Aromas suggesting Anjou pear, almond, grilled herb and a whiff of smoke come together in the glass while the palate offers tangerine zest, ginger and mineral. Fresh acidity lends balance.
Aromas suggesting baked plum, menthol, aromatic herb and dark cooking spice lead the nose. The taut, lively palate offers black cherry, espresso and star anise alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and nervous acidity. It's still a bit austere and needs a few more years to unwind. Drink 2018–2025.
Aromas suggesting cellar floor, camphor and paraffin lead the nose of this wine. The camphor note follows through to the lean palate, along with red berry, ground clove and powdered sage flavors. Bracing tannins leave an astringent, drying finish.
Aromas suggesting damp earth and crushed gravel lead the nose while the extremely diluted, short palate shows the barest hint of lemon juice. This is about as basic as a wine can be.
Aromas suggesting dark berry, exotic spice and toasted oak come together in this. The tight palate is more subdued than the nose, recalling sour berry and powdered herbs alongside astringent tannins.
Aromas suggesting dried rose petal, woodland berry, chopped mint and kitchen spice come together on this. The tight palate isn't quite as expressive as the nose, offering sour cherry, tart cranberry and a hint of clove alongside bracing tannins that grip the finish.
Aromas suggesting forest floor, ripe berry, leather, scorched earth and a hint of cured meat slowly emerge on this full-bodied red. The firm concentrated palate offers dried black cherry, grilled herb, star anise and clove while youthfully austere tannins provide an age-worthy structure. Drink 2022–2035.
Aromas suggesting French oak, coconut and spiced plum carry over to the austere palate, which is marked by grippy tannins and dried cherry, espresso and a raisin flavors.
Aromas suggesting honeydew melon, exotic fruit and a hint of tomato leaf lead the nose. The simple palate is a bit less expressive, offering grapefruit and a hint of white peach alongside lively acidity.
Aromas suggesting honeysuckle, citrus blossom, honeydew melon, aromatic herb and a whiff of tomato vine lead the way. The round, medium-bodied palate is full of grapefruit, white peach and mature Bosc pear while a mineral note closes the finish.
Aromas suggesting mature berry, dried herb, scorched soil and espresso lead the nose. The medium-bodied palate is already evolved, offering prune, dried black cherry, mocha and a hint of licorice alongside soft acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.
Aromas suggesting mature dark-skinned berry, French oak, leather, menthol and parched soil come together on this. The round, dense palate is already accessible, offering fleshy black cherry, licorice, cured meat and espresso alongside ripe, chewy tannins. Drink through 2021.
Aromas suggesting mature plum, scorched earth, clove, menthol and a hint of iris lead the nose. The ripe, one-dimensional palate offers mature black cherry, raspberry jam and cooking spice alongside fine-grained but not very persistent tannins. Drink through 2020.
Aromas suggesting moist soil, plum and a whiff of menthol emerge in the glass. The vibrant, easy-drinking palate offers black cherry, orange peel and star anise while lithe tannins and bright acidity provide the framework.
Aromas suggesting nail polish remover, stewed plum, cellar floor and oak lead the nose. The evolved palate reflects the scorching vintage, offering raisin, powdered sage and balsamic notes alongside bracing grainy tannins and the heat of evident alcohol. Drink sooner rather than later.
Aromas suggesting pressed yellow flower, dried stone fruit and a whiff of toasted nut carry over to the straightforward palate. A hint of almond underscores yellow apple and a citrus note while tangy acidity lends freshness.
Aromas suggesting red berry and scorched soil lead the nose while the straightforward palate offers wild cherry, blackberry and a hint of clove. Lithe tannins provide the framework. Drink soon.
Aromas suggesting resin, mature plum, forest floor, exotic spice, leather and black currant emerge on this solidly structured red. The firm palate offers espresso, raisin, cherry marinated in spirits, fig, licorice and chewing tobacco alongside firm, close-grained tannins that clutch the finish.
Aromas suggesting ripe berry, espresso, pressed rose and a whiff of camphor slowly take shape. The palate is focused but still extremely tight, offering morello cherry, dried sage and a hint of dark spice alongside assertive close-grained tannins that leave a firm finish. Give the tannins several more years to unclench then drink.
Aromas suggesting ripe berry, exotic spice, Alpine herb and a whiff of blue flower come together in the glass. The dense, round palate offers black raspberry, fleshy cherry, licorice and espresso alongside velvety tannins. It's already surprisingly accessible. Drink through 2022.
Aromas suggesting ripe plum, exotic spice, blue flower and a whiff of pipe tobacco take shape in the glass. The full-bodied palate doles out ripe black cherry, raspberry, vanilla and a hint of star anise while velvety tannins give it a polished feel. An espresso note signals the close. Drink 2018–2026.
Aromas suggesting rose water, leather, woodland berry, forest floor, cake spice and a balsamic note lead the way. The taut palate offers juicy black cherry, tart cranberry, baking spice and chopped herb alongside firm, polished tannins. A note of star anise closes the finish. Drink from 2018 through 2023.
Aromas suggesting rose, iris and red berry are front and center. The linear medium-bodied palate offers sour cherry, cranberry, white pepper and star anise alongside close-grained tannins and fresh acidity. It has a firm drying finish. Drink 2021–2028.
Aromas suggesting scorched soil, cedar and black-skinned berry are front and center. The concentrated palate delivers black plum, clove and licorice alongside chewy tannins. Enjoy this one through 2020.
Aromas suggesting smoke, dark cooking spice and mature black-skinned fruit emerge on this bracing, robust red. The firmly structured, one-dimensional palate displays evident oak, coconut, espresso, raisin and a hint of tobacco alongside forceful tannins that leave a firm somewhat grainy finish.
Aromas suggesting Spanish broom and toasted nut lead the way while the ripe palate shows juicy yellow peach and chamomile. A note of bitter almond wraps up the finish.
Aromas suggesting sun-baked earth, leather, underbrush, ripe plum, espresso and a balsamic note lead the way. On the full-bodied palate, licorice and clove notes add depth to a core of ripe dried cherry. Solid tannins provide the firm framework.
Aromas suggesting tilled soil, sage and black-skinned fruit come together in the glass. On the firm palate, close-grained tannins support mature black plum, clove and a touch of star anise. Drink through 2020.
Aromas suggesting toast, hazelnut, camphor and mocha lead the nose. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe wild cherry, white pepper, grilled sage and anise alongside close-grained tannins that leave an assertive finish.
Aromas suggesting toasted oak, sunbaked earth and a whiff of pressed violet lead the nose. The smooth, easygoing palate offers black raspberry, grilled herb and a hint of star anise alongside polished tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2018.
Aromas suggesting truffle, crushed herb, prune and pressed blue flower slowly take shape on this elegantly structured red. The bright palate is firm and linear, offering Marasca cherry, cocoa and clove set against fine-grained, polished tannins and fresh acidity.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, aromatic herb, violet, new leather and earthy game follow through to the chewy, full-bodied palate in this wine, along with ripe black cherry and a hint of baking spice. It's structured and surprisingly accessible, with rounded, velvety tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, charred earth, toast and mature plum lead the nose. The forward, full-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and a hint of tobacco alongside polished tannins. It's already accessible so enjoy over the next few years.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, scorched earth, mature black-skinned fruit and a whiff of dried mint jump out of the glass. The big, chewy palate doles out mature Marasca cherry, graphite, chopped herb and dark cooking spice alongside firm, refined tannins. It's delicious. Drink 2019–2026.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, sweat, tobacco and toast reluctantly come together in the glass. The brooding palate is more appealing, delivering ripe cherry, black raspberry, grilled sage and a hint of vanilla alongside tart acidity and ripe, assertive tannins.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, toast, leather and dried herb lead the nose while the brawny, one-dimensional palate offers cherry marinated in spirits and licorice. The heat of evident alcohol throws it off balance.
Aromas suggesting underbrush, toast, ripe plum, dark spice, menthol and Mediterranean herb waft out of the glass. On the bold, polished palate, velvety tannins support juicy Morello cherry, blackberry jam, licorice, coffee and a chocolate note. It's already accessible and will make for fine drinking over the next few years. Drink through 2021.
Aromas suggesting white spring flower, gooseberry and stone fruit lead the nose. The crisp palate offers peach, grapefruit and pineapple alongside bracing acidity that leaves a clean, brisk finish.
Aromas suggesting yellow spring flower, beeswax and yellow stone fruit set the tone while the ripe medium-bodied palate offers creamy golden apple, peach and a hint of wet stone.
Aromas suggesting yellow stone fruit and acacia flower drift out of the glass. On the creamy palate, delicate hints of beeswax and almond underscore ripe apricot, apple and candied nectarine. Bright acidity lifts the rich flavors.
Aromas that recall cellar floor, toast and espresso lead the nose. The full-bodied palate shows oak, roasted coffee bean and ripe black cherry framed in assertive tannins. Drink after 2019.
Aromas that recall charred earth, toast, oak, black plum, baking spice and espresso meld together on this. The generous, chewy palate doles out fleshy wild cherry, black raspberry, vanilla and mocha alongside supple tannins. It's straightforward, with immediate appeal. Drink through 2020.
Aromas that recall grapefruit, medicinal herb, thyme and adhesive bandages carry over to the lean palate, along with a note of bitter almond.
Aromas that recall hay, stone fruit, herbs, nectarine and mineral carry over to the palate. The rich flavors are restrained by bracing acidity that gives a clean, succulent finish.
Aromas that recall jasmine, green apple and honeydew melon lead the nose. The juicy, medium-bodied palate has good weight and concentration, offering tangerine, ripe pear, bitter almond and a hint of banana. Bright acidity offsets the rich flavors while a ginger note closes the finish.
Aromas that recall nail varnish eventually fade to reveal raisin, prune, chocolate and coffee notes that carry over to the palate along with plum, toasted oak and vanilla.
Aromas that recall raisin, tilled soil and baking spices carry over to the palate together with prune and black pepper. It's rather forward with evolved, fleeting tannins. Drink over the next few years.
Aromas that recall red berry, chopped herb, baked earth and a whiff of leather lead the way on this polished wine. The linear palate delivers dried cherry, raspberry wild mint and a touch of white pepper that carry through to the firm finish.
Aromas that recall red berry, violet, underbrush, tilled soil and brown baking spice slowly emerge in the glass. The svelte, elegant palate delivers wild cherry, licorice, clove, aromatic herb and a mineral note alongside nervous acidity and polished tannins. Give it a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2018–2023.
Aromas that recall stewed prune, cherry steeped in spirits, baking spice, toast and a whiff of menthol lead the nose and carry through to the firm palate along with notes of coffee, grilled sage and clove. Bracing tannins provide the framework. Give this a few more years to unwind then drink up. Best after 2020.
Aromas that recall sugared plum, espresso, toast and underbrush lead the way on this robust wine. The densely concentrated palate offers stewed prune, vanilla, mocha, coffee and toasted oak alongside grainy tannins that leave a teeth-coating, tongue-drying finish. It's extremely ripe and you'll also detect the warmth of alcohol on close.
Aromas that recall underbrush, oak, espresso, truffle and mocha unfold on this bracing red. The firm palate offers dried dark berry, sawdust, espresso, anise and ground pepper alongside assertive tannins.
Aromas that recall underbrush, toast, oak and ripe black-skinned berry come together on this. The tightly wound palate offers dried red currant, raw cherry, roasted coffee bean and a note of sage while dusty, almost grainy tannins clench the finish.
Aromas that suggest cellar floor, scorched earth, worn leather and weedy underbrush lead the nose. The evolved, diluted palate offers raisin, prune, coffee and a green note of powdered sage alongside dusty, fleeting tannins that lead to an abrupt, astringent finish.
Aromas that suggest wood shop, coffee, pressed violet and star anise lead the nose while the tightly wound palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and toast. Close-grained tannins leave a mouth-drying finish. Drink after 2019.
Aromatic accents here include apple cider, chocolate and cherry. The wine has personality but sings out of tune in places, although it could work well with easy pasta or meat dishes. This expression of the wine has 80% Negroamaro and 20% Malvasia Nera.
Aromatic and bracing, this is a fruity mix of lime, nectarine and pink grapefruit. Foris wines are notable for their freshness, purity of fruit and overall immaculate winemaking.
Aromatic and complex, this wine, though not quite bone dry, is tart and citrusy. The mixed fruit flavors run a spectrum from grapefruit to lemon candy to nectarine, lingering gracefully into a mineral-soaked finish.
Aromatic and drinking at its peak, this remains fresh, tart and tangy, with palate-penetrating boysenberry and blueberry fruit. Think Lemberger meets Pinot Noir and you have a sense of it, albeit with a slightly rustic edge.
Aromatic and elegant, generous and supple, this tastes rich while feeling polished and complete. An enticing, light aroma of oaky spice and raspberry mixes with tasty red cherry and black currant flavors on the palate. It is medium bodied, smooth in texture, and has a mild finish.
Aromatic and expressive, this wine starts with aromas of wildflower and peach, and it leads into balanced flavors of white fruit, orange peel and fresh berry. A pretty selection, with enough body to span the seasons.
Aromatic and floral, this forward and fruity Pinot mixes spicy raspberry and strawberry fruit leading into a cherry cola core. That's where it remains through a quick fade. Good near-term drinking.
Aromatic and floral, this lovely bottle has a tangy, nicely defined core of raspberry, cranberry and pomegranate. The tannins are crisp, the acids bracing, the fruit etched in minerals, and the balance poised and appropriate to the lightness of the wine.
Aromatic and floral, this wine has crisp fruitiness and lively acidity that support the delicious spicy character. Drink now.
Aromatic and forward, this is scented and flavored with macerated red plums and cherries. It remains tough and chewy, showing buttery lactic flavors that have not entirely integrated, with a bitter edge to the finish. More bottle age may help smooth it out.
Aromatic and fruity, this is a soft and ready-to-drink wine. It has the lightest touch of tannins, a fresh wild-strawberry flavor and a finish that is dry and crisp in acidity. Drink now.
Aromatic and fruity, this is front-loaded with pretty accents of toast and baking spices. There's 10% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, but it's Merlot's show, with forward, smooth, chocolaty goodness around a core of raspberry candy.
Aromatic and herbaceous, this is a fresh red-currant- and citrus-flavored wine. With textured acidity and a bright, crisp character, it is developing well and it should be ready to drink in a few months.
Aromatic and highly textural. The wine brings out a lot of citrus rind, tart stone fruits, and leesy texture. There's plenty of acid and hints of an underlying minerality with no hot alcohol burn. Just a little hint of stem in the tannins.
Aromatic and intense, it deals stewed-peach and spring flower aromas. The medium-bodied palate packs plenty of flavor, and lively acids keep the wine feeling chiseled.
Aromatic and inviting, this pushes strawberry preserves, cola and a dash of non-carbonated seltzer into the midpalate. It spent 14 months in one-quarter new French oak, and the color along with the already maturing fruit flavors suggest drinking this now through 2020.
Aromatic and lively, this fresh rosé offers bright notes of juicy peach, red cherry and wild strawberry. The medium-weight palate is balanced by refreshing, orange-infused acidity that results in a clean, mouthwatering finish.
Aromatic and lushly scented with rhubarb, strawberry, cola, root beer and cocoa powder, this is immediately accessible, and yet structured to age if you can keep your hands off of it. Streaks of beet root sneak in around raspberry and cherry fruit, with firm tannins and highlights of toast, coffee, caramel and dark chocolate. This is a very fine cuvée that seems to gain focus as it rolls through the finish.
Aromatic and quite fruity, this offers flavors of peach, candied lemon and orange marmalade. It's fully dry, but all that fruit gives it a roundness missing from steelier Spanish versions.
Aromatic and refreshing, with scents of white blossoms, stonefruits and a hint of beeswax, this is fermented entirely in stainless steel and meant to be enjoyed fresh and young. Squeaky clean on the palate with hints of white peach, underripe pineapple, lime pith and a bright, lemony acidity that tickles the palate.
Aromatic and rich, this rounded, ripe wine has hints of yellow fruits along with green plums, perfumed acidity and a hint of minerality. It's buttery at the end, with ripe, lively acidity. Drink from 2019.
Aromatic and richly fruity, this has surprising weight that gives the palate a round and smooth quality. The acidity is there, although it is covered by the superrich fruit.
Aromatic and ripe, this Chardonnay has creamy pear and apricot flavors, plus touches of wood and a warm, rich mouthfeel. It has a soft character, a hint of acidity and lemony freshness.
Aromatic and silky upon entry, this stylish Syrah brings dark berry fruit flavors laced with toast and smoked meats. It's saturated, bright and sappy, with fine grained tannins that seem to spread the flavors fully across the palate. The finish is of medium length, expanding gradually as the wine airs, and adding vanilla and chocolate flavors.
Aromatic and spicy fruit speaks here: ripe blueberry and black cherry with brooding insinuations of flower and earth. The customary pepperiness is in attendance, too, but the structured palate bids you to wait. This is firm and focused and for now tightly corseted. Give this until 2017–2019 in bottle for its full beauty and aroma to emerge.
Aromatic and stylish, this brings the alcohol down a point from the riper 2012 bottling, but rewards the patient sipper with finely rendered raspberry and cherry fruit and hints of orange peel. The supporting acidity brings freshness and length, while promising a substantial life ahead. Drink now through 2022.
Aromatic and stylish, this Dijon-clone Chardonnay jumps out with sweet spices on the nose and a floral twist to the palate. Pollen, apple and white-peach flavors punch through into a well-balanced, lingering finish. It drinks nicely already but should continue to improve through 2023.
Aromatic blueberry scents this wine on nose and palate. The body is light but vivid with white pepper and crunchy, fresh, vibrant fruit. This is St. Laurent picked at exactly the right point of ripeness: luscious but still bright! A real treat with its long, smooth finish.
Aromatic but tart notes of kumquat signal concentration and citric poise. The palate is rich with zesty, aromatic notes of tangerine zest. This is concentrated and dry, explosive and aromatic—a bundle of citrus energy, with swirling clouds of kumquat and tangerine.
Aromatic for Cabernet, this wine possesses notes of black currant, green pepper, blackberry and herbs. It drinks slightly off dry, offering lighter flavors with a tangy feel and chalky tannins.
Aromatic for the variety, this wine shows notes of apple and pear. It's lightly spritzy with an almost unctuous feel.
Aromatic fruit and floral notes join delicious honeydew melon flavors as this full-bodied wine wraps around the tongue, leaving a soft smooth impression and lingering on the finish. Very good concentration, layers of flavor and that lasting finish lift this wine above the ordinary.
Aromatic herb, leather and camphor lead the nose. The firmly structured palate doles out red cherry, strawberry, white pepper and grilled sage alongside tightly wound tannins and bright acidity. An anise note closes the finish.
Aromatic herb, pressed rose, blue flower, menthol and mature berry aromas lift out of the glass. The firmly structured palate offers raspberry compote, licorice and grilled sage alongside tightly wound tannins. Drink 2019–2024.
Aromatic herb, Spanish broom, ripe pear and toasted almond notes take center stage. The almond impression carries over to the firmly structured palate, adding interest to citrus zest and yellow apple flavors.
Aromatic herb, woodland berry, violet, citrus zest and tilled soil scents take shape in the glass. The succulent, linear palate doles out cranberry, red cherry white pepper and star anise flavors, bolstered by a backbone of firm, refined tannins and bright acidity.
Aromatic hints of baked Cox Orange apple and ripe pear are accented by aromatic overtones of ripe quince. Quince also shimmer on the dry, even slender palate that shows uncommon spice and and clarity. A pure expression of Pinot Gris, this is shaped by freshness and zest.
Aromatic hints of creamy stone fruit swirls about the nose. There are hints of Mirabelle plums and yellow pear but on the palate very fine, smoky and exquisitely integrated notes of French oak appear. There is rich vanilla and cream but with a counterpoint of fresh, bright lemony acidity. While stylistically unusual this barrique-aged Grüner certainly is a delicious, creamy and serious wine. You'd never even guess it's already four-years-old. Ready now but will evolve. Drink 2016–2022.
Aromatic hints of new wood translate onto the smooth palate. It has smoke and black currant flavors, with tannins that are already well integrated. Attractive acidity gives this a final lift. Keep it for 5–6 years.
Aromatic hints of russet and yellow pear appear first, followed by lemon freshness. The palate holds all of these, accentuating the freshness with a touch of fine spritz. White pepper shimmers around the edges and the slightest phenoloc grip creates a fresh and slender body. This has a light touch but a lastingly clean finish.
Aromatic hints of tomato leaf and pea shoots make for a highly appetizing nose. The concentrated body adds lovely notions of ripe mirabelle plums and combines fulsome fruit with ample zest. The midpalate maximizes these flavors and leaves you with a very refreshing finish.
Aromatic in black cherry and herb, this is a smooth, round Merlot that'll please many palates, balanced in pleasant fruity tones and vanilla oak.
Aromatic in caramel and oak, it's also ripe and lemony with traces of tropical fruit and vanilla. A bit on the heavy side, it aged for 20 months in seasoned Burgundian oak.
Aromatic in earthy green apple and mint, this is a bright, creamy California take on a white grape native to Campagna in southern Italy. Dry and moderate in body , it has a texture that's fresh and elegant, with a whispered suggestion of saltiness on the back-palate. Enjoy with spicy shellfish or a dish of briny olives.
Aromatic in style, this veers on the side of perfume on the nose. Nevertheless, it's very likable. Red apple skins and florals lead on the palate that's a little soapy, but is well balanced and stylish. More red apple lingers on the finish. Drink now–2020.
Aromatic like an Orange Julius, this wine is velvety and crisp, with flavors of tart red cherry, peach and watermelon. Light bodied with ample weight, it finishes with a richness of vanilla swizzle.
Aromatic notes of crushed citrus foliage promise freshness. The palate does not disappoint: there is the pure, taut linearity of lemon and lime zest, gilded with some rounder notes of mandarin. A sleek, statuesque and above all refreshing beauty.
Aromatic notes of green, yellow and red-cheeked apples waft enticingly from the glass. The palate is equally friendly and smile-inducing, with a totally fruit-driven but exuberant character that majors on frivolous pleasure. The palate is light, frothy and dry. This is made for sparkly afternoons and evenings that last and last. Be sure to get more than one bottle.
Aromatic notes of orange peel and flesh charm on the nose of this wine. The palate is gentle, dry and fresh, with a super-clean finish offering apple and grapefruit.
Aromatic notes of orange zest, combine with an intriguing hint of caramel on the nose and palate of this wine. It's fresh, balanced and juicy, walking a tightrope between lusciousness and brisk refreshment. The body is fruity but dry.
Aromatic notes of red rose, raspberry and blueberry shape the nose of this brilliantly pink rosé. The wine is intense and full of delicate spice and candied fruit nuances that promise an excellent pairing with fish couscous.
Aromatic notes of talcum powder and scented candles give this Bordeaux blend from Navarra a light, pleasant bouquet. But the palate is more starching and hard than ideal, leaving a spiky, jagged feel to the wine's raspberry and plum fruit. So rugged and jarring that food is downright mandatory. Ripped but punishing.
Aromatic notes of tangerine and mandarin play on the nose, making for a heady opening. The concentrated palate shows juicy ripeness against tingling tart freshness. The finish is absolutely dry and totally refreshing. Drink now–2027.
Aromatic notes of tart, baked apple fill the nose. On the palate these aromas revert to the flavors of fresh yellow apples with juicy tartness. The palate is fresh and vivid, dry and brisk. The finish is clean and really lip smacking. It's the apple notion that lasts longest.
Aromatic notions of baked apple tart abound on the nose. The palate follows this with appetizing freshness, a mellow note suggesting ripe Red Delicious apples with a dash of kirsch. It's an unusual Gewurztraminer with a very warm finish.
Aromatic notions of peach precede a fresh, light and easy-drinking palate with zesty acidity.
Aromatic notions of summer blossom and freshly cut pear appear on the nose. The palate brings out ripe, rounded and juicy pear notes alongside a textured, slightly phenolic midpalate that adds backbone. Rounded with rich fruit, it has a briskly clean finish.
Aromatic notions suggest Bosc pear, the ripe peel of Navel oranges, the crunch of apple—all conveying perfect ripeness countered with freshness. This wine is refreshing and full fruited and yet rounded. It's a harmoniously balanced, dry wine of total freshness.
Aromatic of fresh apples and pears with just a hint of savory spice, this wine is full bodied yet refreshingly brisk. Dry in style with subtle apple flavors, it finishes with a pleasant tartness.
Aromatic of honeysuckle, fresh orange peel and rye, this dry Tokaj has all the waxy, honeyed characteristics of its sweet counterparts. This is brisk, with intense, lemony acidity and rippling minerality.
Aromatic of sweet cream, ripe apple and buttered popcorn, this luxurious Chardonnay counters richness of flavor with brisk acidity and impeccably balanced alcohol. It's irresistibly luscious but elegant.
Aromatic overtones of meadow flowers with just a touch of cotton candy hover over the lemony freshness. The palate balances mellow richness with taut acidity and creates a friendly tension between those poles. There is abundant apple fruit, both tart and sweet and a clean, dry finish that accentuates autolysis.
Aromatic overtones of tiny black elderberries give an edge to the smoky red fruit encountered here. A well-judged, sonorous tone of warm oak runs along the seams, lending structure and framing some floral, peppery notions and plump red cherry of this classy and still very refreshing and bright red. With a little time, its aromatics will develop even further... if you can wait.
Aromatic red berries signal tart pleasure: redcurrant and raspberry. The very easy and smooth body fully plays into that with light-bodied charm. Drink while the aromas still sing.
Aromatic red cherries lifted with appetizing notes of pine forest glisten on the nose and frame the palate. The fine-boned tannins almost crunch on the palate and create a ripple of excitement that reveals further aromatic fruit, held tight by utterly refreshing acidity that underlines and illuminates all those aromatic, fruity, spicy and floral aspects.
Aromatic restraint with just a dash of lemony freshness characterizes nose and palate. There is a pleasant midpalate texture and a friendly, bright citrus nerve. This is a rather slender Pinot Gris. Drink soon.
Aromatic ripe, red cherries reveal a tart touch of redcurrant on the nose. The palate has that same appetizing, red-fruited allure: refreshing and juicy, but never heavy. A fresh-faced and authentic red, it has been captured at the perfect intersection of ripeness and crunch. It can even be served a little chilled.
Aromatic stone fruit swings in those lively citrus notes. There is a creamy apple flavor in the background, softening the bold lemon notes. This is pure and lifted, graceful and slender.
Aromatic wild flowers lead to a rich, exotically fruity wine, full of peaches and apricots, fresh acidity and great, lively acidity. This is a deliciously fruity wine from the start. It's the more textured backdrop that promises some aging. Screwcap.
Aromatic with a waft of wax, this dry Riesling is bright with lemon and lime acidity. There's just a suggestion of petrol on the finish.
Aromatic with crushed rock, raspberry, cranberry and hints of clove, this well-structured wine—53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot—will reward additional bottle age. The young, tart red fruits are steely and precise, the barrel influence perfectly balanced against the natural acidity.
Aromatic with notes of petrol, smoke and apple on the nose, this sprightly semisweet Riesling teases the tongue with the slightest tickle of effervescence. The palate balances sweet pink grapefruit with honey, carrying through to an elegant finish.
Aromatic with notes of raspberry, cherry and sugar cookie, this is robust on the palate with a big, mouth-filling foam and penetrating wild cherry flavor.
Aromatic with notes of white peach, florals and just a whiff of petrol, this is fairly dry in style but softened by a gentle grapefruit and limeade sweetness. Finish clean with a refreshing stone and slate note.
Aromatic with pepper and fresh-cut tobacco, well defined by herbal fruits and leafy tannins, this single-vineyard Malbec is stylish and balanced. What is missing is depth, but the balance and length are just right, and the wine does not overreach.
Aromatic with ripe black plums, violets and cedar, this elegant Pinot Noir is chock-full of red cherry and dried plum flavors, fringed with soft, velvety tannins. Vibrant acidity leads to a long finish, flecked with graphite and dried herb notes.
Aromatic with ripe yellow fruits, this wine conveys flavors of mango and apricot. Rich and creamy, it has just enough acidity to give a fresh aftertaste. Drink now.
Aromatic with soda pop scents of Dr. Pepper, cola and root beer, this is nonetheless a reasonably substantial wine, not a simple fruit bomb. It's lively and full of interesting flavors that suggest herb, root and spice; the wood remains a background flavor.
Aromatic with streaks of truffle, cigar and black cherry, this lively six-grape blend is principally Red Mountain fruit, along with some from Red Willow. Substantial and mouth-filling wine, it's nuanced with rich flavors of cassis, tar, graphite and chalk. It spent 18 months in barrel, 73% new.
Aromatic with white flowers, it's rounded, soft and gentle. It misses out on acidity, giving the wine a fat feel. Drink now.
Aromatic, ashy oak wafts around a slip of sweet red fruit. This thin, plummy fruit is sustained on the palate, where the acidity keeps it from being too sweet. The finish is chock-full of eucalyptus and dried mint.
Aromatic, chocolaty and deliciously smooth, the Sheridan vineyard bottling sends up sweet scents of ground coffee and chocolate. Compact fruit flavors of fig and black cherry run right into a bourbon barrel finish, with granular tannins that add welcome texture and a streak of graphite.
Aromatic, floral notes of fresh pear juice, chalky stone and citrus immediately speak of elegance, purity and poise. The palate is lightweight but textured and has that same chalk-stone depth and huge reserves of lemony citrus freshness. There is a counterweight of ripeness and warmth but overall this remains slender and toned. Very well done.
Aromatic, flowery and fruity are all delicious attributes of this forward, fresh and ready-to-drink wine. It's simple and open, finishing with spice and a touch of pepper.
Aromatic, herbal wine, with evocative lavender, a core of dry tannins, fresh red plum juice fruit and flavors of wild thyme. The six years' aging has given the wine just the right amount of maturity to drink now.
Aromatic, rich, creamy and intense, this beautiful Italian cool-climate Müller-Thurgau would pair with spicy Thai or Vietnamese dishes. The wine is beautifully linear and clean overall.
Aromatic, tropical textured wine. Great flavors of ripe pineapple and mango balance with more green fruit characters and a twist of lime. The wood flavors are well restrained, offering just a touch of final spice.
Aromatic, with an elegant blend of mountain berries, just-ripe cherries and a refreshing minerality, this estate-grown fruit is farmed organically and biodynamically. The balance and detail are impressive.
Aromatic, with notes of black tea leaves, sandalwood and incense, this smoky Georgian amber wine boasts delicate orange rind and blossom flavors, swathed in bristling, chestnut-skin-like tannins. There's a wonderful textural richness attributable to the wine's prolonged maceration in traditional Georgian qvevri.
Aromatic, with notes of orange blossom and lemon zest, this dry, bracing Chardonnay boasts surprising depth and minerality. Vibrant with lemony acidity, it finishes briskly, with a hint of lime-zest-like astringency.
Aromatic, with notes of red cherry preserves, this is a fresh, fruity Pinot Noir filled with bright cherry and berry flavor, and a delicate violet flair. It's medium bodied in style, with zesty acidity and big, rigid tannins on the finish.
Aromatically a bit dull, this blend of 54% Syrah, 25% Cinsault, 11% Mourvèdre and 10% Grenache is structured, dense and lush, tasting of tar and black fruit.
Aromatically accenting its herbal, spicy highlights, this sports lightly ripened strawberry and cherry fruit. It's an elegant, well-crafted, nicely balanced wine, with the delicate authority that Josh Bergström brings to all of his wines.
Aromatically alive with the smell of anise and salumi, this is a soft, layered expression of the grape. Blended with smaller amounts of Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Zinfandel and Syrah, it's expressive in blackberry and blueberry fruit.
Aromatically alluring, this features notes of raspberries, Red Vines and cherry candy. It brings a full-bore, plush, richly flavored feel with abundant raspberry flavors that linger on the finish—an unapologetically lush example of 2012 vintage fruit.
Aromatically appealing in notes of sarsaparilla, barrel spice and cherry. This full-bodied Pinot brings pomegranate and plum flavors to the palate, showing some dryness from the tannins.
Aromatically appealing, it features notes of allspice, herbs, cola and cherry. The palate is lighter in style with a scrape-y feel, not fully delivering on all that the aromas have to offer.
Aromatically appealing, this suggests black raspberries, tart cherries and herbs, with light citrus and barrel accents. It's tart and quite restrained for the variety with plumy fruit flavors and a slightly chalky feel to the tannins that may resolve with some additional time in the bottle.
Aromatically blessed in flecked coconut, this soft, round red blend is ripe and lush in black cherry and blueberry, with touches of cedar and tobacco in the background. Completely satisfying on the palate, remaining rich from start to end, it finishes structured and elegant, with delectable waves of dark chocolate and mocha. The blend is half Cabernet Sauvignon and half Malbec.
Aromatically brooding, this has notes of dark cherries, blackberries, mineral and herbs with abundant barrel accents. It's full bodied, rich and high octane, at times seeming a bit overwrought but still delivering plenty of enjoyment.
Aromatically brooding, this suggests dry chocolate, violets, brown stems, herbs, black pepper and smoked meat. It's restrained in style with pure, tart blue fruit flavors and a light squeeze of tannins that need additional time in bottle to settle in fully. Enjoy it at the dinner table to see it at its best.
Aromatically brooding, this wine slowly opens to reveal notes of scorched earth, incense, cassis, herbs and flowers. It coats the palate with layer upon layer of cherry and plum flavors supported by chewy tannins. The finish lingers. It will be best after 2020.
Aromatically compelling with floral, stone fruit and mineral highlights, this offers palate-cleansing freshness. The mineral-drenched flavors blend melon, peach and lemon rind, with a finishing burst of lime. It was fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel.
Aromatically compelling, this offers a complex mix of clover, chocolate and cherry in the nose. It is a substantial, fruit-packed wine, with cherry and plum fruit, a full-bodied midpalate, mouthfilling texture and nicely integrated barrel spices. It finishes with a streak of Meyer lemon acidity. Drink now through 2030.
Aromatically complex with hints of dusty compost, peat moss and coffee grounds, this moves gracefully into a lively palate. Orange and lemon peel, black tea and juicy acids highlight a red berry core. This is a totally gulpable and thoroughly delicious young Pinot.
Aromatically dazzling, this wine shows complex notes of smoked meat, fire pit, black olive, peat, crushed flowers and sea breeze. The savory flavors are rich yet light and restrained, with a long, drawn-out finish. It's an impressive wine whose best years are far in front of it. Drink 2020 to 2026.
Aromatically distinctive, this suggests dry chocolate, orange peel and tart cherries. Flavors are on the lighter side of medium bodied, soft in feel with abundant umami flavors and tart acids.
Aromatically earthy like just-rained-on mushrooms, this red offers a taste of baked fig and mocha amidst generous tannins and a long, textured finish marked by dark plum.
Aromatically elusive at first, with good, clear color, this wine then reveals dots of cranberry and cherry that give way to a crowd-pleasing juiciness that makes it approachable and likable with food. It veers into cola vanilla on the finish.
Aromatically expressive, this offers notes of mandarin orange, lime leaf, green apple and botrytis. It drinks off dry, with plentiful stone fruit and citrus flavors balanced nicely by tart acidity.
Aromatically exuberant, this offers notes of lychee, rose petal, spice and citrus rind. It drinks dry and is lighter in style, with abundant spices speckling a supremely long finish.
Aromatically generous, this displays notes of pineapple, pear and guava. The palate drinks off dry, with abundant tropical fruit flavors, but lacks the acidity to hold it all together.
Aromatically intense notes of flint, smoke and gunmetal already hint at the precise and profound nature of this Styrian Sauvignon Blanc. Everything is in abundance: concentration, savory undertones of boxwood and moss and an integrated acidity that gives both length and structure to this intense wine. Drink 2015–2018.
Aromatically intense, with notes of dried peach, orange cream and vanilla, this blend of Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer and Malvasia aims to push the envelope with its rich, almost-fluffy texture, and its penetrating red-berry, stone-fruit and citrus flavors. The grapes were crushed by foot, and skin contact was employed during fermentation. This is a decadent, unusual, oak-aged orange wine.
Aromatically interesting, this shows the spicy side of Pinot, touching on clove, star anise, pepper and cinnamon. Raspberry fruit and some sharp acidity fill out the palate, which softens in the finish while maintaining an earthy, herbal edge.
Aromatically intriguing, it offers notes of apricot, dried pear and soda water. It's full of sweet stone fruit flavors but doesn't quite have the concentration to keep it all together.
Aromatically intriguing, this carries suggestions of sour cherry, umami and fresh tobacco. The palate brings medium-bodied cranberry and cherry flavors. It doesn't have the tannic structure that this variety is known for but there is still plenty to enjoy.
Aromatically intriguing, this features notes of crushed green grapes, green apple and botrytis. It's a hair off dry, with nicely balanced acidity and stone fruit flavors. Best as a dinner table companion.
Aromatically inviting, with notes of fresh apple, honeydew and white blossoms, this Chardonnay is a bit confected on the palate from candied, overripe flavors of apples and quince. It's a shade off-dry in style with soft, lemony acidity.
Aromatically muted at first, the bouquet opens up with time to reveal steely, finessed notes of pear and fresh citrus that continue through to the palate. The oak is subtle and well-managed, and the minerality alive and fresh.
Aromatically pleasing, this suggests fresh blueberry pie, with a whiff of smoked meat. It's straightforward with huckleberry and mocha flavors, trailing slightly toward the finish.
Aromatically reminiscent of creme brûlée, this delightful Mendocino-grown wine, made from organically grown grapes, is crisp, clean and bright with grapefruit flavor. Textured, and with some flesh to its bones, it should pair especially well with wintertime shellfish.
Aromatically reserved for a dessert wine, with apricot and pear. It's lusciously sweet, with abundant stone fruit flavors but could use a bit more concentration and acidity to hold it together.
Aromatically restrained, with hints of green herbs, underripe apple and pineapple on the nose. It's semisweet in style, but brisk and approachable with pretty apple blossom and tart, green apple-skin flavors on the palate.
Aromatically reticent initially it opens to reveal notes of herbs, coffee, plum and barrel spices. It's elegantly styled with silky cherry flavors and soft tannins that lead to a drawn out finish.
Aromatically rich in red cherry and black currant fruit, this is a lean Zin despite its 15% alcohol. Tar, cedar and chocolate dominate the palate.
Aromatically ripe notes of peach and mandarin soar. The palate of this wine is equally generously fruited, with a vein of ripe lemon acidity at its fresh core. Juicy and very refreshing, it finishes dry and totally moreish with pink grapefruit.
Aromatically speaking, there's bacon and plastic-like notes to the nose along with generic berry scents. The palate is medium in size and intense, with bold cherry and plum flavors as well as oaky backing. It finishes short, with rubbery accents and a distinct clove flavor.
Aromatically speaking, this has some issues. The nose is rustic and roasted smelling, with rubbery aromas of burnt leaves and leathery fruit. With airing, things improve and the palate feel is not an issue at all, while flavors of herbal berry, toast and leaf notes finish slightly bitter.
Aromatically speaking, this is shaky due to murky earthy berry aromas that suggest peanut butter. In the mouth, this is compact and fairly full. Collapsed berry and plum flavors include notes of gritty earthy spice, while this is blocky and pounding on the finish.
Aromatically speaking, this Pinot is rustic, roasted and rough, with notes of leaf and asphalt. The feel is grabby and sticky, with chewy tannins in front of the chunky, raisin-like flavor. The finish is baked and rubbery tasting.
Aromatically spicy, with a blast of citrus, this follows through with tart cranberry fruit. It's accented with pine needles and more of that tangy citrusy acidity.
Aromatically still in its shell, this wine offers notes of mineral, pepper, smoked meat, barrel spices and dark-blue fruit. However, flavors are already singing, with waves of rich, intense fruit that almost overwhelm the senses. This velvet hammer of a wine should only reveal more charms with additional time in the bottle. Best from 2017 to 2022.
Aromatically stunning, with opulent, effusive aromas of lychee, honey, preserved peaches and spice cake. The palate has good acidity and a silky texture while the finish is long and dry. Try with a Vietnamese noodle dish. Drink now to 2011.
Aromatically subtle but ripe notes of yellow pear match the creamy mouthfeel, which has a pleasantly pebbly undertone and soft, almost cushioned acidity.
Aromatically subtle with scents of delicate stone fruit marked by flint and slate, this Riesling builds in intensity on the palate with loads of luscious white-peach flavor. It's delicate and crisp on the palate with a long, white-tea finish.
Aromatically this is evocative; there's spice, tobacco and dried fruit in addition to classy, balanced oak. The palate dances with cherry, dried plum and earthy spice notes, while the finish is elegant, smooth and features just the right amount of tannic grab. A very nice, true-to-the-terroir type of Tempranillo.
Aromatically this wine is not yet entirely ready to reveal its charms, with reserved notes of mineral, smoked meat, olive brine, fire pit, peat and crushed flowers. The generous earth and savory flavors feel rich and full, leading to a lengthy finish.
Aromatically this wine offers a lot of pleasant things, from anise and violet to pretty dark cherry and blackberry fruit. The tannins are pronounced and leathery, the mouthfeel quite concentrated, making it a hearty wine that could take a little more time in bottle to come around. The 2009 is more accessible.
Aromatically unctuous and inviting, this rich, thick Petit Verdot, one of Concannon's smaller bottlings, is mouthfilling in chocolate, tobacco and dark plum, long-lasting through the midpalate and finish. Soft, with moderate tannins, it's a big wine with structure that'll age or pair with serious meat or game now.
Aromatically unusual, this suggests raspberry jam, purple flowers, orange peel and manure. Flavors are tangy and almost seem to have a light spritz.
Aromatically, this blend of Macabeo, Muscat and Chardonnay gets off to a decent start by showing honeysuckle, lemon verbena and minerality. But in the mouth it's sharp and narrow, with blazing acids that turn peach and nectarine flavors towards sour. Simply put, there's not enough body here for the wine to rate higher.
Aromatically, this Bulgarian Riesling is quite pretty with loads of freshly pressed apples, elderflowers and Meyer lemon scents. Light bodied and dry with a racy acidity, its palate is austere but has some muted floral and honeydew flavors.
Aromatically, this coastal SB from a cold, wet year is caught between citric and vegetal. On the palate, this feels tangy but that's about it. Salty, green-leaning citrus flavors finish strong, although that's not necessarily a ringing compliment.
Aromatically, this everyday wine delivers floral berry and rubbery scents. It's full and a touch gummy feeling, with creaminess and candied flavors of cassis and plum. Overall it feels good and finishes short.
Aromatically, this is pretty bad. It smells unclean and dirty. A shearing, cutting palate is high in acid, while sour, pickled flavors of citrus and apple finish briny.
Aromatically, this is pretty good as dry apple and a pinch of green herbs work the nose. In the mouth, however, this is shear and citric, with zesty, almost sour flavors of tangerine, orange and grapefruit. The finish is similar, with thinly cut acidity causing tartness.
Aromatically, this varietal Prieto Picudo from Asturias shows graphite, wood resin, vanilla and spiced plum. In the mouth, however, it's devoid of structure and thus comes across jammy and flabby. Flavors of baked berry fruits are oaky and rooty, while this is massive on the finish but lacks foundation and framing.
Aromatically, this wine does not want to give too much away yet. However, the citrus focus of its linear palate and the refreshment that it holds are already evident. This is Grüner for grown-ups with a neat dose of peppery pungency and great concentration.
Aromatically, this wine is currently subdued, with the notes of raspberry, cocoa and cherry that haven't fully blossomed. The flavors meanwhile are generous and ripe, while still showing a fine sense of balance. Additional time in the bottle or a long decant should allow it to open up.
Aromatically, this wine is still shy on nose and palate. Underneath that the linearity and inherent slenderness of ripe tangerine flesh and zest come though, enriched with an earthy notion of ripe pear. The palate is dry and energetic, but also still rather closed. The true colors are revealed on the finish, with a lasting pear note bundled on the concentrated, linear palate. Drink 2019–2030.
Aromatically, this wine seems locked up with notes of tire rubber, herbs, pepper, woodspice and plum. Favors are supple and reserved in style. It's a unique expression of the variety from this cool vintage.
Aromatics of dill and vanilla are straight from the Old World, but otherwise this is modern and flush. Aromas of cedar and wood resin are also present in front of a tannic, roasted palate that features soft berry fruit, cola and medicinal flavors. Ripe, big and sweet; starts like Rioja and finishes like classic Chilean Cabernet; includes 17% Merlot and Carmenère.
Aromatics of raisin and earthy tobacco breathe complexities as this airs out. A balanced but ripe and mouthfilling palate holds deep flavors of blackberry and cassis. Loamy berry, fig and chocolate flavors provide pleasure on the finish. Drink through 2018.
Aromatics of rose and mint give this wine prettiness on the nose before getting into darker, richer components on the palate. Medium in build, it retains a sizable tannin presence in its youth, complemented by dark cherry and a char on the oak.
Arresting and perfumed, this wine displays aromas of stargazer lilies, fire pit, tapenade and smoked meat, displaying exquisite nuance and detail. Flavors are intensely rich yet light in their styling, with a savory and floral finish that continues as long as you care to count. It displays a rare sense of delicacy and intensity that is breathtaking.
Arresting from the get-go, with a spice-driven start that rolls into a soft midpalate with nicely evolved fruit flavors of plum and spicy cherry. This isn't a big wine, but it's balanced and fruity, with moderate depth and excellent balance.
Art gallery openings, backyard barbecues and other occasions when you want a nice, dry, affordable red are suited to this boxed wine, the equivalent of four regular bottles. It has pleasant blackberry, currant and cherry jam flavors.
Artadi's top wine is dynamite in a bottle. Ripe, saturated, oaky aromas of blackberry, leather, blueberry pie and aged cheese are incredibly potent and alluring. This is huge in the mouth, with lemony oak and broad tannins that don't grind. Intense blackberry, coffee, toast and smoky flavors finish a mile deep, with all sorts of textural grab and character. Best from 2016 through 2026.
Arte shows some age on the bouquet with savory tones of cured meat, bacon, dried fruit and exotic spice. Fresh acidity is backed by a gritty, textured feel to the tannins. The wine has five years or so of aging potential.
Artesana favors dark, extracted, full-bodied wines and this Tannat fits the bill. Cedar, spice and blackberry aromas rest in front of a chunky, full-bodied palate with woody flavors of toast, mint and generic black fruits. On the finish, things evaporate quickly, leaving a menthol-driven burn.
As a 100% varietal wine, blue fruit, vanilla and herb aromas are followed by abundant cherry flavors, with lightly dry tannins backing them up. The oak plays a prominent role.
As a contrast to Jonathan Maltus's Le Carré, this single-vineyard wine, from vines situated only 100 yards away, has a taut, mineral flavor, with an initial austere character which then opens out to give dark bitter chocolate and plum skin flavors. It is potentially a richer, more impressive wine, but it needs aging for 4–5 years.
As a Corton-Charlemagne should be, this is big and opulent. The minerality is quite present, a fresh addition to a wine that has more to do with ripe, racy tropical and yellow fruits that fill the mouth. It is not a wine for aging, maybe 2–3 years, but is certainly delicious now.
As a counterpoint to fruit-driven takes on this historic California grape, this bottling shows the variety's shrubby side, with aromas of wild peppercorns, woody elderberries and olallieberries. Flavors are extremely earthy and restrained, with oregano, thyme and incense, proving quite elegant and never boisterous.
As a Gewurztraminer becomes sweeter, it loses some of its spice. What it gains, as here, is a more intense, honeyed and fragrant character that also allows space for acidity. There is some dryness on the finish, as well as a pleasant astringency. Drink until 2019.
As a one-liter package you get one-third more wine here for the money, which only cements this Tempranillo's Best Buy credentials. It's a little roasted on the nose, but it doesn't fall into the burnt or baked realm. Raspberry, plum and some coffee-driven bitterness make up the flavor profile, while the texture and length are both commendable.
As a partner to the red wine from this estate, with its Bordeaux blend, this wine brings together the Bordeaux white grapes of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. The addition of Alvarinho rather spoils the Bordeaux moment, although for the wine it it's a plus, adding crisp taste and brightness to this rich wood-aged blend. Drink this tropical, fruity and pear-flavored wine from 2018.
As a side project alongside the Mari Vineyards wines, this is the first release of winemaker Sean O'Keefe's Scriptorium line. Blending Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and Lagrein, this cool-climate red boasts dark cherry and raspberry laced with pink peppercorn and cedar oil. There's ample concentration of fruit on the palate, with lively acidity and crushed stone keeping things light.
As a straightahead Aussie Riesling for drinking young alongside raw oysters, this has few equals. Scents of petrichor and fresh flower-shop greenery mingle easily on the nose, while the crispness of the high-acid backbone resounds on the palate, ending on a talc-like note.
As a whole, this is top-shelf Malbec with weight, character and complexities. It's also a touch gamy on the nose, with a no-miss blast of compost. Beyond that, the palate shows lemony oak and tight tannins on top of oaky, leathery flavors of robust berry and baked plum. Drink this rock-solid specimen now through 2016.
As advertised, this lush white is barrel fermented in 40% new French oak, and it imparts quite a bit of that upbringing in its toasty character. Apple and preserved lemon offset ripe fruit flavors.
As all the Icon Pinot Noirs have over the years, this one shows a fair amount of oak: cinnamon, toast and vanilla all mark the nose. But this medium-bodied wine also shows layers of soft, supple fruit underneath. Give it another year to integrate, then drink it over the next 3–4.
As always at Leeuwin Estate, the Art Series Chardonnay is a star. Now incorporating some natural ferments and slightly more solids, the 2013 features some more savory elements than in the past. A hint of pencil shavings highlights the pear and pineapple fruit, which offers plenty of flesh without being overbearing.
As always with a grand cru from Gevrey-Chambertin, this wine shows immense power. It is dominated by black fruits as well as signs of the 60% wood aging. Behind, the red cherry fruits are developing along with the lively acidity. It needs to age and should not be drunk before 2019.
As always with Morgan's Pinot Gris, the 2009 is bone dry and ultracrisp in acidity, with mouthwatering citrus, apricot and green apple flavors. Great as a cocktail sipper, especially with shrimp cocktail.
As always with this vineyard, the wine is superripe, almost overripe, with extracted pineapple, pear, nectarine and peach flavors that are impossibly ripe. New oak adds even richer vanilla, caramel and buttered toast notes. Great acidity and a firm minerality fortunately balance all this flamboyance, but it's still a pretty powerful Chardonnay. Drink with rich lobster, scallop and tuna dishes.
As always, a stylish and well-proportioned effort from winemaker Joy Anderson. Blackberry and smoke wrap into a mid-palate with good focus and grip. Despite its modest price, this wine can go one-on-one with a thick, juicy steak. Tannins are just rough enough to give it some welcome muscle.
As always, Beringer's Alluvium blend is a complex white wine, meant to pair with good food. The '08 is comprised of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Chardonnay and Viognier. It's fruity, crisp and dry.
As always, Loios is a bright and fruity wine that is ready to drink young. With peach, grapefruit and red apple flavors, it's a soft wine with a crisp streak. It is ready to drink now and will be better at the end of 2014.
As always, Seghesio's Cortina is a rich, complex Zinfandel. It captures Zin's briary, brambly, spicy personality, with dense, wild forest-berry fruit, yet manages to be elegantly compact and even Cabernet-like in its tannin structure. A very classy wine that deserves a spot on the best wine lists.
As always, the historic winery produces a nuanced, restrained style, with a subdued nose of berries and balsamic reduction. It's light and bright on the palate, with chicory and woody tones and medium-ripe cherry fruit, a perfect partner to varied foods.
As always, this attractive non-vintage Champagne is light, fruity and fragrant. It has crisp apple, pear and green-plum flavors and a refreshing citrus acidity. It is full in the mouth, but finishes with a reverberating softness.
As always, this is a fresh, fruity, light-bodied wine, with apples and the crispest acidity, just touched by pepper. A great value from Austria.
As always, this is among the best Malbecs Chile has to offer. The nose is concentrated and packed with huge aromas of black fruit, vanilla and earthy tobacco. It feels pure and incredibly deep, with beefy berry and toasted plum flavors. The chewy, easy-to-like finish is mellow. Drink now–2017.
As always, this single-vineyard Syrah is a masterful mix of tart fruit, herb, stem and earth flavors. Pomegranate and red currant, umami and gunflint highlights are all in focus.
As an addition to the Cape Roca range, this is impressive. It has weight and richness, accompanied with firm tannins, a solid core of dryness and blackberry fruits.
As an expression of pure power, this wine is hard to beat. It has the classic Brunello color—red with edges of brick. The aromas are of bitter coffee, herbs and mature, ripe fruit. On the palate, the concentration is enormous, the tannins pack a serious punch and the supermature fruit is black and bright. All this gives it a one-dimensional, if impressive quality.
As Australian vineyards go, this isn't that old, having been planted in 1971. Chocolate and vanilla shadings frame bowls of mixed berries in this full-bodied, powerful wine. It finishes long and intense, outlined by dusty tannins.
As Barbara Streisand might have said, “Hello, gorgeous.” With brisk acidity that's almost tingly, this is basically dry, yet the exotic tropical fruit, peach and honeysuckle flavors are so pure, ending with a sweet finish. It's the perfect accompaniment to Asian-fusion fare.
As befits a 100% Pinot Noir wine, this is a rich Champagne, poised between ripe apricot and pear fruits and more mineral acidity. Just a touch of tannin adds structure to this ready-to-drink wine.
As befits a Bandol, this rosé has a good depth of flavor, rich and smoothly textured with acidity integrated into a serious and complex wine. The structure and acidity suggest a wine that could age for 2–3 years.
As befits a reserve-level wine, this is big, bold, rich and full-flavored. It amplifies the ripe apple and peach fruit, and slathers it in buttery caramel and sweet spice. Drink now through 2020.
As befits a reserve wine, this blend was aged in wood for six months. That has given a ripe lightly toasty character to the wine along with its cool crispness that reveals its origin in the mountainous northern Alentejo. The wine is fruity with lemon and melon over the wood. Drink now.
As befits a single vineyard Gevrey Chambertin, this is a structured wine, firmly rooted in tannins. Hidden beneath are black plum and cherry flavors that are raring to go—rich and sumptuous. It's a wine for aging, so drink from 2016.
As befits a vintage bubbly, this is toasty and yeasty upfront, yet remains fresh and citrusy. It's a medium-bodied sparkler that comes across as fairly dry, making it clean and refreshing on the finish.
As befits this ripe and forward vintage, this special cuvée is rich to the point of voluptuousness—a generous expression of cherry and plum fruit broadly displayed across the palate. The oak treatment (17 months in three-quarters new French barrels) brings smooth and lightly buttery accents of caramel and chocolate. It's a sexy wine that seems best for near- and medium-term consumption.
As before, the Estate Selection is the bigger of the two Pinots from Amalie, textural and clean. Strawberry and raspberry fruit flavors hint at herb and stem, but all the details are in proportion and complement each other. Not for long aging, but drinking well right now.
As before, this features fruit from Conner-Lee, here with some Lewis vineyard grapes added to bring in more minerality. The result is a well-crafted mix of grapes from these two premier vineyards, with a tight core of chalk-laden citrus fruits. Persistent and resonant, the fruit is edged with citrus skin and brings a pat of butter at the end.
As before, this is 100% Syrah from the Red Willow Vineyard's oldest vines. It can seem rather light when first opened, with pretty raspberry scents that carry delicate hints of herb. Complexities emerge with airing: more subtle whiffs of earth and flower and flavors that don't overwhelm, but seem to keep adding interesting threads of blueberry, black cherry, Asian spice and game.
As before, this is Weinbau vineyard fruit. The 2009 vintage seems to have presented some challenges, as the fruit flavors suggest uneven ripening, with a mix of tutti-fruity candy flavors along with some raisins. Tannins are smooth and there's a pleasing streak of graphite running through the finish. Drink soon.
As Belgrave improves each year, it reveals a character that is close to the elegance and style of Saint-Julien, right next door. This 2010, while dense, is balanced, and its rich blackberry flavor is already integrating into its firm tannins. This should age well for the medium term.
As big as you expect a Howell Mountain Zin to be, offering rich, deep blackberry, currant, chocolate, licorice, bacon and cedar flavors that are sweet and dry at the same time. It's not just powerful in flavor, it's wonderful in structure, with refined tannins and balancing acidity. A minor criticism is some heat from alcohol, but that's the nature of ripe Zinfandel.
As bright as a button, this is a crisp, cool wine, lightly herbaceous and deliciously fresh. Just touched by six months wood aging, the wine has an extra layer of richness that contrasts with the young green and citrus fruits. Drink now, or, better, keep until 2016.
As can happen with young wines like just-released rosé, a slight bit of effervescence is visible. The interesting smell of fermentation gives rise to strawberry and pink bubblegum scents. The gum persists on the palate, but in a pleasant, not overwhelming or sweet way, as does red licorice and watermelon.
As candied as a granola health bar, this Zin has flavors of sugared blackberries, roasted almonds, caramel and chocolate. If you like your Zins a little sweet, it's for you.
As characterful as the dry version but with lower alcohol and a slight hint of sweetness, this boasts powerful tangerine, quince and Meyer lemon fruit. Its electric acidity keeps it vivid and beautifully balanced. Delicious now, it's also cellar-worthy.
As chewy and umami, salty delicious as a mouthful of crunchy bacon. Throw in dried blackberries and blueberries, with a touch of smoky new oak, and that describes this fantastically pure, addictively good Zinfandel. The grape sourcing is from old vineyards in the Alexander and Dry Creek Valleys. Truly a great Zin, and relatively easy to find, with 9,000 cases produced.
As Chilean Carmenère goes, this is one of the best and most true to the grape. Dusty, dry, earthy aromas of spiced berry, herbs and cocoa lead to a lofty palate with both creamy oak and driving acids. Oak-related flavors of vanilla and coconut sit on top of spicy, baked berry flavors, while the finish is full, woody, creamy and dense. Drink this excellent Carmenère now through 2017.
As classy a bottle as you might expect from veteran winemaker Laurent Montalieu. Once again the fruit is crystal clear, setting up fresh pear, green apple and pink grapefruit flavors against crisp, juicy acidity. The finish is lively and spicy.
As comfortable as an old shoe, the Grand Estates Chardonnay from Columbia Crest delivers broad, open flavors of buttered fruit – almost like biting into a slice of apple pie, crust and all. Hard to argue with it, all 160,000 cases strong.
As consistent as ever, this is sleek and stylish, with complex, layered flavors of citrus rind, citrus flesh and delicate tropical fruits. There are further highlights of honeycomb and dried apricot, and mouth-pleasing, underlying minerality.
As crisp and light as the mountain air of Savoie, this citrus and apple-bright wine offers great fruitiness and a tangy, orange-zest aftertaste. Drink now.
As crisp as possible, this is a light, strawberry fruited wine with balanced acidity and a fresh, delicious aftertaste. Drink now.
As delicate and spry as a silken mist, this sweet-style Riesling balances honeyed apricot and peach flavors against a backdrop of intense minerality and acidity. It darts and dances on the tongue yet penetrates deeply, leaving a long lasting impression. It's approachable now, yet should improve till at least 2025.
As delicate as water, with faint hints of citrus fruits and buttered toast.
As delicious and opulent as they come, yet it's somewhat formulaic. It's all about oak, insanely ripe black currant and dark chocolate fruit, ultrasmooth tannins and heat from alcohol.
As delicious and succulent as anything out there, with black currant, blueberry and chocolate flavors that are vastly deep and long on the finish. Fortunately, there's brisk acidity and fine tannins, and despite the luscious fruit and oak, it's dry on the finish. This blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is fully drinkable now.
As delicious as its 2012 counterpart, yet needing more time, this vineyard-designate shines in high acidity and swirls of lemon and tangerine, remaining balanced in weight and volume in body and structure. With suggestions of ginger throughout, it finishes briny.
As delicious as Pinot Noir gets, this has fireworks of raspberries, cherries and cola, and a sweet, mushroom-like essence of earth. Then the depth kicks in. It's not a big, tannic wine, but rather soft, with enormous charm and immediate appeal. Drink now–2016.
As dense as Muscadet gets, this is a full, concentrated wine in its white fruit flavors. Its broad, rounded character is pierced by lemon and lime acidity. Age for six months.
As densely built as its name suggests, this wine is grippy with black fruit and robust tannin, its full-bodied concentration laced with integrated oak. Brooding blackberry and black cherry dominate the midpalate, with a one-two punch of chocolate and tobacco, finishing with clove and pepper spice.
As easy and tasty as a summer wine gets, this blush also has a lovely coppery-pink color. Flavors of fresh strawberries and spice burst on the palate, and drink just a tad off-dry.
As effusive in flavor as a bowl full of orchard fruits, this wine exudes fresh apple, melon and spearmint aromas backed by ripe yet crisp flavors that carry a vein of apple blossoms. It's not sweet, but it has a pleasant softness around the edges of the mouthfeel.
As expected, this wine's vines are next to a gravel quarry in Paarl, a region known for producing powerful reds. Big flavors of black currant and berry are balanced by a poised acidity and spicy wood character, and while assertive, the wine maintains an elegant, dry reserve. Drink now or wait 2–3 years.
As fabulous as ever, this brilliant compendium of nutty-toasty-buttery scents and flavors is never tiring. It's vivid, fruit-loaded and bracing. Well-ripened citrus and stone fruits come into focus, along with streaks of vanilla and lemongrass.
As far as Argentine Syrah goes, this vintage of Iscay, which contains 3% Viognier in a nod to France, is the new benchmark for the country. Daniel Pi and Joey Tensley's wine discloses aromas of jammy berry fruits along with cardamom and floral notes. The palate is a fortress of layers, while flavors of blackberry, cassis and chocolate set the stage for finishing notes of vanilla, butter, espresso and cocoa powder. Drink through 2018.
As fresh and crisp as possible, this is a wonderful thirst-quenching rosé. Packed in reinterpretation of the classic Provence rosé skittle bottle, it has delicious fresh acidity, raspberry flavors and an edge of minerality that make this a great food wine.
As fresh and fruity as any Nouveau should be, this also comes with a tang of black-currant-skin-like tannin as well as red cherry fruit.
As fresh and fruity as possible, this is a lively wine. Coming in a darkened bottle it looks stylish on a table, although its fragrant red fruits make it even better as an apéritif.
As fresh as can be, this is a bright, lively and lightly perfumed wine. It has grapefruit, apricot fruit and a touch of minerality. Drink through 2015.
As fresh as it comes, this is crisp and clean rosé, ready for summer aperitifs. Bright red berries cut through a warmer texture and bring acidity with them. There's an attractive lively finish.
As fresh as possible, this herb- and orange-flavored wine is crisp, driven by its fruit and acidity, finishing with a burst of fruit juice. It is ready to drink.
As fresh as they come, with bright strawberry flavors touched by caramel and red currant acidity. For drinking this summer.
As gamy as foie gras, and just as rich, this 100% varietal wine fills the palate with baked plum, licorice and intense ripe fruit that borders on confected. Soft tannins and supportive oak give it structure and breadth.
As good as any Père de Famille to date, this brilliantly crafted wine jumps from the glass immediately with a rainbow of blue, purple and black fruits. The scents and flavors are dense and seamless, the tannins polished and graceful, and the barrel aging puts the last dabs of paint on a winemaking masterpiece.
As good as last year, this vintage has a subtle lemon taste that's layered with dashes of lilting lychee and fresh cantaloupe. Well integrated and pleasant, it will pair with spicy and seafood-infused foods, or go down easy on its own.
As good as the winery's other 2008s are, this wine raises the stakes. It's bone dry, deeply tannic and marked by classic varietal flavors of blackberries, cassis and dark chocolate, with sweet, smoky oak. Almost a food group in itself for its complexity, it's dazzling now for its sheer luxurious deliciousness, yet is guaranteed to develop over at least the next 10 years.
As good as the winery's regular 2009 Cabernet is, this small-production selection from the estate vineyard is even better. However, as the tannins are fierce, it's not a wine you want to drink anytime soon. Through the astringency shines a bright, burning core of perfectly ripe blackberries and savory black currants. Flashy and impressive, this 100% Cabernet should begin to soften and mellow after 2018.
As good as their Redwoods' Edge but meatier, denser and exuding more spice, this Pinot has a nose of leather and dark blue and red fruit, sexy texture and a long-lingering finish. It'll delight on the dinner table with pork tenderloin or leg of lamb.
As good as varietal Petit Verdot gets, this delicious effort marries ripe red and black fruit to firm tannins streaked with minerals. It has the density and length of a cellar-worthy powerhouse, yet retains the elegance and balance to drink young.
As happens in Côtes de Bourg, Malbec forms part of the blend in this wine. This would explain the firm dry tannins that give it a big structure and weight. Along with the dry character, there is the beginnings of red berry fruit. The wine needs several years.
As happens with Chenin wines, this has closed up, showing only marzipan flavors without the fruit. It's a stage, and the wine needs another 2–3 years before realizing its mature potential. Screwcap.
As if its electric pink color wasn't enough to attract attention, this medium-bodied wine has effusive candied fruit aromas and just-picked red fruit flavors. Flavor intensity and good acidity give it a lot of personality.
As if to emphasize that Petit Chablis has an important place in the Chablis hierarchy, the Chablis cooperative produces its aptly named Pas si Petit—”not so little.” It's a soft, immediately drinkable wine, full of ripe lime and pear flavor. It is light and ready to drink.
As imposing as the athlete himself, this is an impressive wine from the get-go, high in acidity and the resulting bright cassis and red berry fruit. It's nuanced in pretty ways, with peppercorn, herb and chalky tannins. Lingering on the palate, the structure suggests significant aging potential; enjoy from 2021–2024.
As impressive as the woman—a pioneer in the Napa Valley—was herself, this 100% varietal wine from the estate property high atop Diamond Mountain is powerfully elegant, intense yet refined. It begins with a high-toned, graceful entry that's rich in blueberry and chocolate, the oak smooth and integrated, with a suggestion of hand-rolled tobacco. Drink now through 2022.
As in 2003 this is a blend of Stillwater Creek and Sundance Vineyard fruit. Some complex aromas of cured meat and smoke are added to an underpinning of berry and currant fruit. This is a graceful wine that will need decanting, but well worth taking the extra time to see what it's all about. Retasted 24 hours after being opened, the wine had blossomed into full-blown flavor.
As in 2003, the blend is 78% Syrah, 22% Sangiovese, all from the Seven Hills vineyard, and aged in 70% new Hungarian oak. The wine looks and tastes a bit oxidative, the fruit is soft and simple, the finish lightly toasty.
As in 2009, the 2010 Bully includes 10% Petit Verdot, and was aged in 100% new French oak. Muscular tannins and hints of caraway speak to the substantial addition of PV, and the wine is at first chewy and closed. Give it aerating and it shows plenty of depth, with dense raspberry fruit, notes of white pepper and crushed rock, and a lively streak of lemony acid.
As in 2014, this budget label from Paul O'Brien winery is a stunning value in an Oregon Pinot Noir. A total of 20% of the fruit was sourced from the Willamette Valley, and all was barrel aged for 10 months in 25% new French oak. Concentrated raspberry and cherry fruit is complemented with streaks of earth and bark. The texture is compelling, and the stiff tannins will continue to soften up over the next decade or so.
As in earlier vintages, this is three quarters Cabernet, one quarter Merlot, from McClellan Estate, Lewis and Seven Hills fruit. You will find a clear and varietal flavor mix of cassis, herb and bark, with some spice and chocolate accents from barrel aging in half-new French oak. Good balance and persistence.
As in many 2009s from the Northern Rhône, the Syrah fruit is superripe. Add in aging in 100% new oak barrels and the result is a big, richly tannic wine redolent of vanilla, cedar and blackberries. Drink now–2025.
As in nearby Sauternes, 2005 produced some exceptionally rich botrytised wine in Monbazillac. This example from one of the leading Bergerac producers certainly shows plenty of richness, but it seems rather too sugary, showing toffee flavors and fatness. The acidity is missing.
As in past vintages, this is half DuBrul and half Meek vineyard fruit. It's a far cry from what most consumers would think of as Merlot—this is a stiff, tannic, muscular wine, with a deep earthiness that speaks of rich loam and ancient rock. It strikes me as more typical of Malbec. The tannins are firm and dense, and the fruits are black as coal and laced with tar and smoke.
As in the past, Leonetti's 2010 Sangiovese was co-fermented with Syrah (11%), and sourced from Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Mill Creek Upland vineyards. It's flat-out delicious from the first scents of barrels and fruits, right on through a lush palate rich in flavors of berries, rum-soaked cherries and exotic spices. A long finish, with a smoky/earthy cast, is supported with tart acids.
As intense and strapping as a Hall of Fame cornerback, this Cabernet is ripe in dark cherry, vanilla and milk chocolate, the tannins mouthfillingly sweet. Built to last, it should stand up to even the fiercest of meats, from rib eye to ribs.
As is most often the case with Sangiovese, this comes across as a pleasant, rather generic red wine that could be almost anything. The fruit tastes of light cherry and plum, with a rather sour finish. Tannins are earthy and there is a hint of sweaty saddle as well.
As is normal for Embruix, the nose is generous and jammy, with extracted flavors of grapy black fruits and earth. The palate is smooth and jammy, with easy tannins and ripe flavors of plum and cassis. The finish is loamy, plump and soft. Drink through 2017.
As is often the case when a rosé has been made taking the color from the skins rather than the more usual addition of red wine, this perfumed Champagne is dark colored—very pink. The fruit of this dry wine gives a red-currant flavor, with lively acidity and a crisp, tang aftertaste.
As is often the case with 100% Touriga Nacional, the wine is one-dimensional. It has perfumed fruit and tannins, but seems to have a hollow core. That's why blending can be a good idea.
As is often the case with Phélan Ségur, there is an excess of wood in this wine. Sometimes it works, as here, because the big, bold fruits are powerful enough to match the toastiness. That suggests a future as a ripe, black-fruited and structured wine with room for juicy acidity. Drink from 2019.
As is often the case, a poor red wine vintage in Bordeaux is a good year for sweet wines. This unctuous wine, still young and dominated by 95% Sémillon, is beautifully balanced. Its honey and botrytis flavors give it a dry edge that comfortably contrasts with the opulent sweetness. The acidity, a source of freshness, gives the wine the lift it needs. Drink this serious and major wine from 2023.
As is often the case, the Estates Syrah bottling is the best wine of the flight in this vintage. It shows more varietal character and depth, with a substantial black-cherry flavor. It has lavish notes of maple syrup and baking spices, and the core fruit still shines through.
As is often true of Southern Oregon Pinot Noir, this has a rather chunky fruit character, showing a cherry candy flavor. Aged in 30% new French oak, the wine is very lightly toasty, with a touch of heat in the finish.
As is right for a Bandol, Mourvèdre is the dominant grape in this rich wine. It is spicy from the same wood aging that also gives a mint-chocolate flavor to the powerful red-plum and berry fruits. The wine is still young, still firm. Drink from 2019.
As it ages in bottle, this Champagne is showing real class. It remains as delicate as when reviewed last year, but it is now showing much more mature toastiness and bread flavors, and less of the green fruits. Elegance is still the main character; a fine, pure wine.
As it ages, Muscadet becomes more like Chardonnay. Here, the wine has developed ripe tropical fruit notes and a smooth, creamy texture. The seven years of age has softened the fruit and acidity, leaving a rich wine that is deliciously ready to drink now.
As it ages, this wine's color becomes deeper and more golden. The palate has lost its early acidity and gained richer tropical fruit, honey and layers of botrytis. It will always have a light touch with a crisp texture that underlies the riper fruits and sweetness. Drink from 2017.
As it develops in bottle, this wine retains all its intense acidity. But it has now brought in a toast and yeast character that gives it even greater complexity. It is a wine that is also a Champagne, now in full flow of mineral richness, still with a long way to develop.
As it opens, this wine's ever-so-slightly-dried black-cherry aroma emerges with elegance and power, alongside unending layers of potpourri, crushed flowers, juniper and dark spice. The palate leads with a tart cranberry note that broadens into a warmer strawberry flavor, laced together with tingling acidity and sagebrush spice.
As it smells blowsy, stalky and oily, this is probably already past its freshness point. It feels chunky and sort of flat, with mealy apple flavors leading to a honeyed finish that feels fleshy. This is a blend of 50% Viura, 40% Chardonnay and 10% Muscat.
As Italy's first Prosecco with sleeve packaging, this offers a cheerful and carefree expression, with sweet tones of peach and melon on the finish.
As its 14.5% indicates, this is a particularly rich wine. Maybe too rich, because it is all superripe black fruit without the balance of structure or acidity. Enjoy it as a blockbuster, probably not with food.
As its brawny name suggests, Roccato (Sangiovese and Cabernet) is a thickly concentrated wine with powerful blasts of plum, dried herbs, mint candy, licorice and white talc powder. It's ripe and ready to drink now.
As its color indicates, the wine is approaching maturity. It has a rich texture with red fruits, some firm tannins and a generous character. With its spice, ripeness and concentration, it is fine to drink now, although the wine does fade quickly after opening.
As its hybrid name suggests, Shymer is a blend of Syrah and Merlot. The wine presents a friendly bouquet accented by red cherry, white pepper and sweet cinnamon. The tannins are soft and plush.
As its name implies, Don Generous doles out opulence and aromatic intensity, lingering long on the nose and palate. This is a smoky, masculine expression, with notes of lead pencil, slate, prune, cassis and spice. It delivers the essences of volcanic soil with dry and firm tannins at the back.
As its name implies, the wine comes from chalky soil, giving this wine its mineral edge. The fruit is ripe and tropical in its generosity, full of yellow fruits, pineapple and mango. There is a fine floral aroma which, along with acidity, give the wine a bright aftertaste.
As its name implies, this wine comes from chalk soil, giving both a strongly mineral character and ripe tropical fruit flavors. It's rich, full in the mouth, dry but with such a ripe character there seems to be some sweetness. It's impressively full and ready to drink now.
As its name indicates, “barriques” (barrels), this is that rare Pinot Blanc that is aged in wood. There's a mere hint of toast, the main thrust of this delicious wine being its pear and honeyed apple flavors, with acidity cutting through at the end.
As its name indicates, this is a blend of premier cru wines. Holding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it is ripe with yellow fruit and apple flavors tinged attractively with touches of toastiness. This rich Champagne is ready to drink.
As its name states quite clearly, this is a plush, lush, smooth red wine. It's sweet and jammy like a shot of Jell-O.
As its name suggests this is a selection of barrels of Syrah and Touriga Nacional. It is rich, smooth and full of ripe fruit. The dusty tannins are in suspension, backing up the black plum and blueberry fruit flavors. Along with the juicy acidity, this is a wine to age. Drink from 2017.
As its name suggests this wine comes from vines planted close to the Torto River that runs through the quinta. The extra warmth from the river produces extra-ripe grapes that go into this powerful, although impressively restrained wine. Foot trodden in traditional stone fermenters, the wine is rich with the same opulent texture as a vintage Port (although of course dry). Dark and for the long haul the wine should not be consumed before 2020.
As its name suggests, Hedonis ushers forth opulent and indulgent aromas of chocolate fudge, bright berry and exotic spice. The aromatic intensity is impressive, but the palate is tight, linear and compact. There's a pleasing touch of dried rosemary on the finish. Prestige Wine Imports Corp. —M.L.
As its name suggests, this is a racy little Prosecco with simple fruit layers of peach and citrus followed by perky effervescence.
As its name suggests, this is a selection of barrels of Syrah and Touriga Nacional. The wine does have tannins although its main character is attractive juicy red fruits and balanced acidity. It will be ready from 2018.
As its name suggests, this vineyard is above the Marconnets, one of Beaune's top vineyards. Beautifully perfumed, it is ripe with orange zest, apples and a streak of delicious citrus acidity. It has a light touch, fruity, with hints of wood and minerality.
As its name suggests, this wine is meant to go with shellfish. Light and fruity, it's perfect background wine to highlight a variety of foods. Fresh acidity, citrus and delicate apple notes are enjoyable.
As its name suggests, Tradizionale is classically crafted. Aged in large French casks, this has alluring fragrances of violet, plum and black pepper, while the palate delivers black cherry and tobacco flavors layered with carob notes. It's nicely balanced, with soft tannins and fresh acidity.
As its name, boisé, suggests this is a wood-aged white. That gives the wine richness and definite tastiness while keeping plenty of room for the freshest green and citrus fruits and crisp sliced apple. It should be kept a few months, so drink from 2016.
As labeled, this zero-dosage wine is bone dry. But because Vincent Couche has vineyards in the warm, southern region of Champagne, even his very dry wines have a richness and surprising softness. This crisp wine is also rounded, with a touch of toast from bottle age adding complexity.
As light in color and silky in texture as a Pinot Noir, with refined tannins and a fine burst of acidity. The flavors are characterized by the cherries and raspberries associated with Grenache, along with notes of white pepper, cinnamon, bacon and a floral note. The alcohol is a little too high for comfort or ageability.
As long as the price keeps creeping up on this wine, we're happy to say that the quality seems better and the oak level lower than in past years. This version of Milmanda offers roasted corn, walnut and other smoky, barrel-based aromas. Throughout the fruit is shy but the mouthfeel and oak are smooth. Finishes with a blast of white pepper and toast.
As luscious as this Viognier is with tropical fruit, green apple, apricot and honey flavors, it's so ripe and rich that repeated sips become cloying. Brisk acidity helps to balance things out.
As mammoth wines go, this is rock-solid. Sixteen percent alcohol tells you that it's strapping and ripe. But more than just being big and fiery, it's pleasant and sophisticated. The nose offers mocha and raisin, and the palate delivers a feast of toasty, vanilla-edged berry and plum flavors. Fresh and balanced given the level of ripeness and oak treatment. Drink through 2010. 350 cases made.
As Marlborough becomes increasingly planted-out and pricy, expect to see more wine from Waipara, a region along the South Island's eastern coast. This light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc is somewhat neutral, but does show some attractive lime zest and grapefruit shadings. Drink now.
As might be expected from winemaker Roman Bratasiuk, this is a full-bodied, rich Syrah, loaded with dark scents of roast coffee, blueberries and baking spices. Blueberry, menthol and spice flavors dominate the palate, finishing long. Despite the massive richness, there's plenty of elegance, too. Imported by Wine Brokers Unlimited.
As might be expected, this has some familial similarities with the 2004 version (also reviewed this issue). It's full-bodied and dark-fruited, but the acids are brighter and the mouthfeel less luxurious, ending on a crisp note. Give it another year or two in the bottle to see if it develops more lushness.
As much as Tuscany and Syrah seem to be a match made in heaven, this wine is lower in overall intensity and rather neutral in aromas. Pretty cherry-berry and fine wood nuances are measured and understated. Firm structure and tannins, with a tart cherry note on the close.
As much as we like the retro package, this time the contents are just too one-dimensional. The heavily toasted oak over the narrow fruit from the '98 vintage reads as just that—toast, with vanilla and coconut shadings. Dry powdery tannins mark the taut finish.
As much rich as sweet, this is a honey- and dry botrytis-flavored wine, with tropical mango flavors complementing lemon acidity. It's a complex, intense wine, textured and ageworthy. Screwcap.
As often in Alsace Pinot Noir, the wine has too much wood for its fruit. What fruitiness it has—bitter cherries and red berries—is smothered by high toast giving a dry, edgy aftertaste.
As often with Magdelaine in recent vintages, this is on the austere side. Its firm tannins and structure dominate the fruit. That said, it does have bright fruit underneath all this tightness, and is finely balanced, the berry fruits lifted with some intense acidity. It needs another few months to settle in bottle.
As often with wines that have some Baga in the blend, rusticity fights with elegance. In this case, elegance is winning as the wine ages. The herbal element is important as is the sweet jelly fruit.
As one might expect from a Rhône-based producer, this is a meaty, earthy rendering of Shiraz. It's only medium bodied, but frames its black olive and spice flavors in dry, dusty tannins. Drink now–2020.
As one might expect, this is Washington rosé with a French touch, courtesy of consulting winemaker Christian LeSommer. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cab Franc, given a four-hour soak and then fermented in neutral oak, it is exceptional in every way. Silky and flavorful with a mix of peach and strawberry, vanilla cookie and amazing length.
As pale as a rosé can be, this is a smooth and rounded wine. Ripe, perfumed red fruits offer a tang from a squeeze of lemon. The acidity gives the right amount of freshness to this attractive, drink-it-now wine.
As pale in color as is possible for a rosé, this is bright, crisp and fruity.It has delicious acidity and red apple and citrus flavors, with a burst of red currant on the finish.
As pale in color as it comes, this is a delicate, delicious wine. Vanilla flavors vie with the freshest acidity and then ripe red plum fruits to give a wine that is both rounded and crisp.
As part of a range of wines that are based on specific parcels of vines, this wine has also been partially wood fermented. Its richness and the touches of spice and toastiness give the wine a ripe rounded character. However, it is dry, crisply textured with a touch of tannin to give it structure. Drink now.
As part of a range of wines that uses the figure seven because of its mystic qualities, grower Didier Pelvillain has produced a wine that is dark, smooth and ripe. It has fine berry fruits and dusty tannins that are still lifted by the youthful acidity. Give it until 2019 to fully develop.
As part of a single-parcel single-varietal range, this 100% Merlot is rich while keeping a fine sense of proportion and balance. With red fruits (laden with young tannins), touches of wood and plenty of acidity, this is developing into a ripe wine. Juicy and fruity as well as structured, it will be ready to drink from 2019.
As part of its top varietal range, Esporão has produced this rare Petit Verdot. Almost black in color, its darkness follows through onto the palate that's powerful, tarry and spicy, with plenty of concentration and richness.
As peppery as a jalapeño, with persistent spiciness, this wine offers high-octane ripeness and a healthy cradling of oak, finishing with a touch of heat.
As per usual, Don Melchor is singing a pretty tune. Deep, dense aromas of floral berry fruits and tarry darkness are solid and complete. Pure, elegant and confident across the palate, this delivers firm cassis, plum and cherry flavors backed by a toasty finish accented by licorice. This is rich and brawny but not heavy; drink through 2023.
As per usual, Purple Angel is a full-force experience. Hailing from a warm year, this is dense and purple in color, as it should be. Aromas of graphite, oak, tobacco and black fruit set up a jammy, full palate with saturated flavors of spice-laden blueberry and boysenberry. Finishing notes of tobacco, herb and oak cement this big-boned wine's ripe, beefy status. Drink through 2018.
As per usual, this wine offers solid berry fruit aromas as well as good balance and varietal correctness. The palate feel is balanced and fresh, while the flavors of cassis, berry and oak are properly welded together. Finishes with a touch of chocolate and wood spice.
As per usual, Toso's regular varietal Malbec is pleasing, honest and shows the variety in its best, affordable form. Meaty and rich on the nose, with an inky accent. The palate has the right feel and solid flavors of blackberry and raspberry. Competently covers the spectrum of aromas, feel and flavors.
As pretty and polished as California Gewürztraminer gets. Shows fabulous Anderson Valley acidity and minerality undergirding varietal flavors of sweet Asian spices, pears, peaches, limes and honeysuckle flowers. With its dry finish, it's a rich accompaniment to Vietnamese or Thai food.
As prices for Argentinean Malbecs climb, this is a really good value. It's earthy and full, and slightly rustic on the nose. Feels ripe and rugged, with scratchy tannins supporting red berry and oak-based vanilla notes. Feels fresh and good for a large-production Malbec.
As proof that any blend goes in Tejo, this wine is 50-50 Touriga Nacional and Pinot Noir. Initially, it is more full of acidity than fruit, although it does have a soft texture. The fruit comes through slowly to give fresh plum and berry flavors at the end. Drink now.
As pure an expression of a Malbec dominated blend as possible, this is ripe, juicy, packed with fine acidity and underpinned by solid, dry tannins. It balances the firm, dry character with delicious, forward, juicy fruit.
As reliable as the first flowers of spring, this perennial best-of-show winner offers lovely scents and flavors of fresh-picked strawberries. Subtle suggestions of rose water and orange peel can be found, along with some precise fruit-skin flavors.
As reserved on the nose as on the palate, this Rosso shows faint dried black cherry and licorice notes. The subtlest hint of thyme marks the finish.
As rich and intense as the same producer's Non Vintage Brut, this is a ripe finely textured wine, its acidity giving great freshness to the red berry fruits. Grand Cru vineyards speak tellingly.
As rich as it is tannic, this is powerful and concentrated. It shows the rich 2009 fruit at its best, full of sweet berries, deliciously ripe. Enjoyable, while it is also serious.
As rich as this Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend is, and it is extraordinarily rich, there's something standard about it. It's as though the ripeness of the fruit has obliterated any trace of terroir. Offers a fantastically sweet explosion of blackberries, cherries, plums and chocolate, alongside caramelized, butterscotchy oak, but beyond the sheer power, the wine isn't displaying much subtlety. Hard to tell where it's going, if anywhere.
As rich, ripe and flashy as any Pinot Noir out there. It floods the mouth with jammy raspberries and cherries, with smoky oak sweetness like pie crust, sprinkled with cinnamon and brown sugar. Drink soon.
As ripe as Donum's regular 2010 Russian River Pinot is, this reserve is even richer. It's certainly impressive for sheer power, but is too much of a good thing, flooding the mouth with so much soft, ripe, oaky raspberry and cherry flamboyance as to lose subtlety.
As ripely fruity and oaky as any Cab out there, offering a flood of blackberries, currants, cherries, raspberries, mocha and sweet, smoky new oak. Yet lifted up by the tannin-inspired structure and a welcome, herbaceous note of olives. Marries the best of the old and new styles, a terrific Cabernet that will develop for 6–8 years.
As salty as preserved lemon brine, this wine is medium-bodied, with integrated oak, having aged in 33% new French barrels. Golden delicious apple and a spicy bite of quince round out the subtle fruit flavors, bolstered by gravelly texture.
As sharp, fresh and fruity as a jar of raspberry, cherry and blackberry jam, melted into liquid and fortified with alcohol. Feels hot, too, despite an official alcohol reading of just 14%. The winery held this back for five years, an expensive investment in storage, but the wine just can't quite overcome its limitations.
As so often results from this vineyard, this is a lovely wine, the fruit ripe and showing considerable sweetness as well as richness. The structure is soft, open and elegant, surrounding the core of sweet tannins. Not for long-term aging, but worth waiting 4–5 years.
As so often with Montrose, this is a powerful, concentrated and very structured wine. Dense tannins are paired with rich black fruits, although at this stage the wine also has a sense of austerity. Power, severity and complexity all make for a wine for long aging. Wait until 2019.
As soft and smooth as velvet, with superripe flavors of chocolate, blackberry and cherry pie filling, currants, cassis and sweetly toasted oak. A best blend of vineyards available to the winery, this Cab was aged in 100% new French oak. The alcohol level is high, leading to questions of ageability.
As soon as this Chardonnay hits the mouth, it explodes with ripe, heady flavors of pineapples, mangoes and limes. There's a complexity to the palate that makes it hard to believe its unoaked.
As soon as you unscrew the top on this 100% Syrah blush wine, the aromas of raspberries and strawberries release into the air, like incense. Those fruits follow through in the taste, turning jammy, heavy and sweet. The alcohol is a heady 14.9% by volume.
As sure-fire as the sunrise, Ponzi's Pinot Noir Rosé is always a class act. The floral, strawberry and peppercorn aromas set your mouth watering before the first sip. There's sufficient acidity to take a bit of a chill-down in stride, and the finish, though bone dry, has ample fruit sweetness to round out the mouthfeel.
As sweet and carbonated as a soda drink, with raspberry and vanilla flavors. Yet it's absolutely clean and vibrant. Easy to drink if you like your bubbly on the sugary side.
As sweet and fruity as Gatorade, with a blast of caramelized oak. It's a Chard made in the popular style to appeal to the broad mass of consumers.
As sweet and sugary as a dessert wine, with watery berry flavors.
As sweet as a cream puff, with marshmallow, lemon custard and vanilla flavors. Think of it as a decent dessert wine and drink accordingly.
As sweet as a dessert drink, with sugared pineapple juice, vanilla custard and spice flavors. Yet it's balanced with crisp acidity, and finishes clean. If this is your style, it's for you.
As sweet as a dessert pastry, with vanilla, cream, toast, butter and pineapple jam flavors. Vibrant acidity provides balance just in time.
As sweet as a dessert wine, with simple pineapple jam flavors.
As sweet as a dessert wine, with sugary raspberry, cherry and spice flavors.
As sweet as a dessert wine. Tastes like sugared pineapple, apricot and orange juice. Fine in cleansing acidity, but it's not really a dry table wine.
As sweet as angel food cake, with sugary vanilla and pineapple flavors. If you like sweet Chardonnay, it's for you.
As sweet as honey, with Lifesaver candy pineapple, golden apricot preserves, Meyer lemon custard pie and Asian spice flavors. Calls for very rich fare, such as scallops sautéed in butter, served with a creamy risotto.
As sweet as Port, with chocolate and prune flavors. Feels as hot as a chile pepper, with nearly 17% alcohol.
As sweet as raspberry tea sweetened with a couple spoons of white sugar. Alcohol provides a pleasant burn. If this sweeter style of Zin is your thing, it's quite a nice wine.
As tasty as a pear tart, this combines mild pear, vanilla and almond flavors on a smooth texture. Medium bodied, balanced slightly to the soft side, and quite fruity, it will make a satisfying glass at cocktail time or with dinner.
As the base for a sparkling wine, Baga doesn't lose its tannic character. But it does offer great fruitiness, an apple crispness and tight acidity. A sparkling wine for food.
As the blend of 75% Chardonnay, 15% Viognier and 10% Sauvignon Blanc would suggest, this wine combines toasty complexity, fragrant curviness and clean acidity all in one. Overall, it's a more robust white that could handle richer dishes and as a solo sip, is substantial but not heavy. A good white for winter or summer enjoyment.
As the cloudy sediment at the bottom of the bottle indicates, this intriguing Prosecco was refermented in the bottle as opposed to in steel tanks. It opens with a heady aroma of white flower, green apple and kiwi. These carry over to the palate with a hint of exotic fruit and lime alongside a soft, persistent mousse and brisk acidity. It has a dry, crisp finish.
As the designation implies, this is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache. The grapes were grown in Coombsville. The wine is fruity and approachable now, with black cherry jam, mocha and exotic baking spice flavors.
As the entry-level Chardonnay from one of Margaret River's most highly lauded producers, this has a creamy opulence to it, with notes of buttercups, lemon drops and toasty oak. The palate is of medium weight, with a viscous texture and a good lick of acidity to keep things fresh, but the oak is a little flashy, particularly on the finish.
As the label indicates, this is the eighth edition of this top-level reserve (none was made in 2013). It's given 40% new oak, and tasted alongside the winery's other 2014 Pinots it's clearly the most concentrated, with plush fruit, sweet spice, and highlights of tobacco and vanilla. Drink now through the early 2020s.
As the label says, the wine is off dry, but with its great, refreshing acidity, it is also crisp and fruity. Baked apples and citrus flavors mingle with a lightly mineral texture to give a lively, fragrant wine. Drink now.
As the label says, this is a sweet bubbly, but it's not insipid or cloying. Brisk acidity keeps the raspberry and vanilla flavors clean. Although it's a little scoury, the price is right for a wine that's so deliciously drinkable.
As the name Barriques suggests, this wine is lightly aged in wood that adds toast to spice and gives a buttery, ripe texture. The wine is fresh, rounded with a pepper character that comes through strongly at the end. Drink now, but better from 2016.
As the name implies, it's a soft, gentle wine. Quality has varied over the years. The '04 is one of the better vintages, a complex but accessible wine with polished black currant, dark- chocolate truffle and anise liqueur flavors. Drink now and through 2010.
As the name implies, this is a big Zinfandel, full-bodied and mouthfilling. It has strong, but dry, flavors of wild blackberries and anise, and the kinds of briary, brambly notes that make you think of a California forest on a hot summer afternoon. Now–2012.
As the name implies, this is a soft wine, with gentle tannins and acids. It's ripe in cherry and blackberry jam flavors that finish simple and sweet.
As the name implies, this is Husch's dry Gewürz. It's a balanced, crisply acidic, fresh wine that showcases the variety's lychee, citrus and wildflower flavors and rich trove of Asian spices.
As the name indicates, this limited reserve is a selection of the winemaker's best barrels. It was fermented with 90% whole clusters, and aged 15 months in one-third new French oak. There are ample scents and flavors of stem, leaf and root, which dominate. Give this wine a lot of breathing time or a vigorous decant, which will help to bring the fruit back up.
As the name makes clear, this wine is made from a head-pruned, older block of very unlikely Syrah at the estate property, as seductive as rare. Plum, black cherry, leather and black pepper jump from the glass, slowly and with purpose, around a core of burly tannin and intensely floral aromatics. This is a great wine.
As the name of this cuvée indicates, the grapes for this bottling come from sandier parcels within the appellation. The result is a fruitier expression of Tavel, one that morphs ceaselessly between red plum, yellow peach and mixed berry flavors. Crisp and firm on the finish, this needs a little time to show its best; drink throughout 2017.
As the name Sasyr suggests, this wine represents a successful blend of Sangiovese (60%) and Syrah that is sensual, spicy, savory and perfect for hearty meat dishes. This vintage shows great quality with ripe fruit tones, leather, tobacco, black olive and a plush, velvety mouthfeel.
As the name suggests, only 10 barrels of this rich expression of Alvarinho were produced. It has crisp acidity, ripe apple and apricot flavors and just a hint of the wood. An ageworthy white that will be better from 2018.
As the name suggests, this blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon does taste big and bold, but it also tastes hot and lopsided. It has a Port-like consistency, with notes of charred sesame seed, chocolate and dark cherry that lack precision.
As the name suggests, this is a big wine (15.7% alcohol), but in this year the wine handles it well, balancing that weight with bold flavors of blackberry, vanilla, chocolate and cinnamon. Finishes tart and juicy, with coffee and olive shadings.
As the name suggests, this is a sweet red with a touch of candied appeal. The nose offers red berries and a touch of smoke and spice; the palate is fruity with an underpinning of cedar and pepper. Fun but simple.
As the name suggests, this is an elemental Cabernet, offering pleasant blackberry, cherry and oak flavors. Rich and ripe in California sunshine fruit, it's smooth in tannins and easy to drink.
As the producer's first 100% Syrah, this impressive wine shows the vibrancy of cool-climate influence in distinct notes of saddle leather and white pepper on the nose. Integrated in oak and smooth on the palate, it takes time to come around in floral raspberry.
As the Riverside County region finds its way, this grape may make a good white option. This winery, which was founded in 1969 by the golf magnate, delivers aromas of salted and honeyed apples, following by a balanced, precise and mineral-driven palate of apple, lemonade and grapefruit.
As the Stolpman family's top-of-the-line bottling each vintage, this wine impresses on all fronts. Candied boysenberry, dried lilac, snapped dark chocolate and hints of dried mint show on the nose. The entry into the palate is refined and soft with juicy mulberry and elderberry fruit plus touches of thyme and forest floor. Firm but polished tannins and a decent dose of acidity ensure long drinkability. Drink now–2029.
As the tannins soften, this wine will become rich with generous fruitiness. Blackberry flavors and acidity are developing well to give a wine that is full and will be well balanced. Drink this Ducourt family wine from 2016.
As the top tier wine from this producer, this Pinot sees 10 months in new French oak which gives an inital char to the nose. With time in the glass this opens with notes of coffee-dusted red and black cherries. The medium-bodied palate is round and creamy in feel, with fuzzy, crushed-velvet tannins giving texture to the ripe cherry and racy currant flavors. A dusting of cocoa closes the finish.
As the wine's name indicates, it is made from century old vines, planted by a Burgundian who arrived in Portugal to escape World War One. The result is a wine of immense concentration, dark tannins and beautiful fruit. The vineyard is planted as a field blend, the grapes are fermented in traditional open stone lagares. It is a superb wine that deserves further aging. Drink from 2019.
As the wine ages, it shows a soft, toasty and nutty side that adds complexity to the tight fruitiness that remains. It's a wine in transition, still fresh while adding some concentration, broadening the steely texture and giving hints of the serious wine it will be. Drink from 2018.
As there is not a lot of Cabernet Franc made in Lodi, this is a rare chance to see what it can be. This wine is imprinted with Michael David's typical big, bold flavors. It's an aromatic combination of perfume, cinnamon spice and toasty oak. The palate is dense and smoky, with strong raspberry and currant fruit.
As thick as a milkshake, this rich, fruity concoction tastes like blackberry jam and chocolate, is semisweet and has a mouth-coating texture and tongue-staining deep purple color. Although moderately alcoholic, its viscosity is impressive.
As this a tropical fruit expression of the grape, Sauvignon Blanc, though aged in oak, works well here. The other reason is that the wood is subtle—just a hint— leaving plenty of room for the fine pineapple fruit and final acidity. Drink from 2017.
As this Cabernet develops in the glass, the oak takes over, offering rich aromas and flavors of caramel, vanilla and wood spices. Underneath is a nice Cabernet with cherry and blackberry flavors. The wine is dry and crisp and fairly tannic. A study in progress.
As this enters its second year in bottle, the nose is still clean and punchy, much like fruit salad. A plump solid mouthfeel holds flavors of salty peach. Beyond that, there's not a lot to say about this standard Albariño. Drink immediately.
As this is tight and currently aloof, it lacks the generosity of the 2009 vintage, but it may prove to be more ageable. It has deep, earthy flavors of red currant, cola and balsam, and it could blossom into something even more complex after 2016.
As this wine ages, a touch of vegetal unripeness slowly emerges. It's not too strong, but it does detract from the cherry and cola flavors. The mouthfeel is just beautiful, soft, silky and dry. Drink up.
As this wine shows, what marks out 2014 is the great fruitiness. This is full of rich black currants from a 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. A smoky background from tannins gives shape to the fruit and acidity. It will mature quickly; drink from late 2016. An Alliance Bourg member.
As typical for Dry River Pinots, this one is pretty surly in its youth. Intense and astringent, it packs layers of dusty black-cherry fruit into a tightly coiled frame. Try after 2019.
As unevolved as they are, the dense and multilayered aromas and flavors are truly impressive here. Black currant, herb, tea, oak, vanilla, maple, anise, blueberries and more--it could be an excercise in overkill, if all the parts weren't in such fine harmony. Really big, but with excellent balance, this reveals much less now than the RWT. It is everything a flagship wine in its infancy should be--immaculate component parts, superbly full on the palate, possessed of great length and incredible potential. An absolute keeper to visit in 7, 15 or 25 years. To be released 5/01.
As usual for Casa Silva, this Carmenère is foreceful, minty, herbal and spunky on the nose, with a bold fruit aroma. The mouthfeel is robust and juicy, and the flavors run from herbal plum to berry to carob. The finish is herbal, with length and texture.
As usual with a Hirsch Pinot, the wine is young and thick and jammy, even a little heavy, and needs time to develop. The wild raspberry, sour cherry, cola and Asian spices have a touch of smoky new oak, while the tannins and acids are noticeable, providing a dry architecture for the ripe fruit. Should develop over the next decade, as everything comes together into balance.
As usual, the team at Craggy Range has turned out an excellent rendering of Sauvignon Blanc from the estate vineyard in Martinborough. There's a lovely, lively interplay of stone fruit, citrus and subtle grassiness, plus a plump, silky mouthfeel and a smooth, elegant finish.
As usual, the Wairau Reserve is Saint Clair's biggest, plushest, most opulent Sauvignon Blanc bottling. Bold and unabashedly tropical in nature, it screams passion fruit aloud, then settles down into a mouthwatering, slightly chalky finish of immodest length.
As usual, this Garnacha is friendly, but serious enough to satisfy all palates. Floral berry aromas lead off the bouquet, leading to a juicy, fresh and pure palate. Flavors of raspberry, plum and a dash of spice finish with a good texture.
As usual, this is one of Calera's lightest bottlings, in both color and texture. It's deceptively simple, showing softened cola and raspberry jam flavors that finish impressively long and spicy. It would be a mistake to dismiss it for early drinking. Give it a good six years in the cellar, and it could be stunning in 2020.
As usual, this was sourced entirely from a small block in the Dineen vineyard. Fragrant with a mélange of lemony aromas, the flavors carry the same theme—lemon gelato, lemon pie, limoncello, all buoyed with perfect acidity. It's a vivid, clean, long-lasting wine.
As Virginia wines can sometimes struggle with acid retention, wines made using naturally high-acid varieties like Tannat are making waves. This bottling of 100% Tannat has aromas of dark cherry, pain grillé and savory spice, with a grilled portobello underpinning. Assertive, strapping tannins lay the foundation, and the uplifting acids add cut. Only 70 cases produced.
As Washington-grown Syrah takes the national spotlight, this entry from Gamache should be on everyone's radar. It's a very well-made example of  the classic Washington style, with a bright mix of berry, composted earth, licorice and black tea, backed with citrusy acids. Moderate in density, despite relatively high alcohol, it's good for drinking over the next five years.
As Willamette Valley vintners continually improve and redefine Oregon Chardonnay, a distinctive profile is emerging. This vivid and taut mineral-driven wine could be the poster child. The citrus, apples and pears bring a light touch of baking spices, extended length and surefire ageability. Plus, it's a fine value for a wine of such quality.
As with all Ayoub wines, the immaculate fruit and impeccable structure impress the most. Deep flavors of strawberry and raspberry are set in a toasty frame, with underlying minerality. The finish is drying and extends for well over a minute.
As with all Beresan reds, this tilts sharply in the direction of dark fruits, earthy tannins, and streaks of iron and herb. The plum and berry flavors are framed in sappy acids, and the purity of the single-varietal wine is impressive. It's a fine alternative to Cabernet with that thick steak.
As with all Dusted Valley wines, the focus is on varietal purity, and the careful blending (an addition of 10% Merlot) enhances it, by expanding the midpalate and adding complexity. Green coffee and oak-driven coconut and vanilla custard flavors dominate, with dark fruits holding down center court.
As with all Nefarious wines, balance is the key to success. Whiffs of toast, smoke and sea breeze introduce a delicate, estate-grown wine, with pretty melon, pear and apple notes. Complex and graceful.
As with all of the Dr. Loosen wines, this blended kabinett is very fruit-forward and direct. The green apple and lime notes are wonderfully pure and balanced. Drink this light, spritely wine over the next few years.
As with all the 2013 white wines from Chehalem, the alcohol is way down and the acids up in this blend of the three estate vineyards. All-stainless fermented, it's quite tart with green apple and grapefruit flavors dominating.
As with all this producer's wines, the first fermentation iof this bottling was in wood, adding richness and smoothing out the fruit to give a warm, round character. The acidity is still tight and crisp, with citrus and apple flavors shot through with minerality. Drink now.
As with Dunham's other Lewis Vineyard designates, this is 100% varietal, showcasing the distinct imprint of the vineyard as it impacts one specific grape. Sharp and smoky, with bright flavors of raspberry and cherry fruit, the wine remains deep, pure and focused as it runs through an extended, detailed finish.
As with its companion releases, the inviting aromatics capture your attention. On the palate, the wine offers classic varietal flavors of berry and tart plum, along with nuanced highlights of sassafras, bramble and a slight hint of hemp. Concentrated and compact, it should cellar well for at least a decade. Drink now through 2026.
As with Kiona's off-dry Washington Riesling, this includes a bit of Gewürztraminer, a clever addition that brings some spiciness into play. Intensely aromatic, the wine is almost Muscat-like, with dense orange peel flavors, along with citrus, tea and madeleine cookie. This is a sensational value from a leading Riesling producer.
As with many Margaux in 2007, this wine is all fruit, very little tannin. That brings out the attractive black currant flavors, but does mean that it is likely to be mature in the short term.
As with many of Oregon's 2013 Pinots, this is more refined, more austere, more herbal and lower in alcohol than the fruity, forward 2012s. It's a matter of personal preference which is preferable. The fruit here begins in rhubarb and runs to raspberry, with a stop for citrus peel along the way. Spicy highlights of clove and coriander roll into a bright finish.
As with many of the Erath 2010 vineyard designates, this is strongly herbal. The notes of leaf and herb create somewhat unripe flavor impressions, with a touch of bitterness on the finish. The fruit just passes the ripeness of sweet tomatoes.
As with many of the winery's other single-vineyard selections from this vintage, this is strongly scented with fresh tobacco, and brings generous black-cherry fruit to the front and center. The fruit is accented by a wide swath of cola, perhaps Dr. Pepper. The finish continues long, clean and fresh.
As with many Provence rosé producers, this wine comes from grapes harvested at night to preserve the freshness of the fruit. It has produced an attractive crisp wine with a pale-rosé color and lively red-currant fruits. Drink now.
As with many wines from brothers Martin and Mathieu Béraut, this is a blend of many grapes. The combination produces a typical herbal grassy wine, full of tangy citrus fruit and with a touch of apricot from the Petit Manseng in the blend. Drink this now.
As with most Del Rio wines, this is 100% varietal. Fruity and forward, it's a bowl full of peaches and apples. Flavors are light and fresh, without much substance. Drink up.
As with most of the winery's efforts, this is 100% varietal. Mineral, citrus and wild raspberry fruit flavors dive deeply into the palate; the raspberries in particular are intensely flavorful. The penetration, elegance and power are persuasive.
As with other Champagnes in the producer's range, this blends three vintages, giving it extra richness and depth of fruit flavor. Its toasty edge suggests it has also been aged in bottle. Attractive and ripe, it's ready to drink.
As with other wines from Quinta do Cardo, this is packed with minerals and a dark, stony texture. It is concentrated, full of intense acidity and powerful tannins. Rich, it conveys a genuine sense of aging potential. Don't drink before 2018.
As with other wines produced by the Dulon family, this suffers from too much oak. Here it shows in the wood acidity, the burnt character and the bitter coffee flavors. It's a shame because somewhere under there is fruit. A year or two more will help, so wait until 2018.
As with previous vintages, this rare wine spent 38 months in barrel. Smooth and supple, it's a lush expression of purple and black fruits, generously endowed with darker flavors of smoke, tar, soy and licorice. There is a compelling, yet subtle, umami character overriding all else. It's drinking quite beautifully now, but could age considerably longer.
As with several wines from Bourg, this has Malbec (20%) in the blend, a continuation of a long tradition. It adds maybe some extra tannins to this firm wine that is the chateau's top wine. Solid and dense, it is still maturing with black fruits and crisp acidity still right up front. Drink from 2018.
As with so many Provence rosés, this wine is dominated by Grenache. That gives the wine a full and fruity character without any hint of heaviness. Ripe red fruits are contrasted with a zingy texture that leaves the wine so fresh in the mouth.
As with so many wines from Blaye, this is dominated by Merlot. That gives a ripe full wine that is spicy and full of black-plum fruits. Firm tannins still show through the fruits that are balanced by acidity. The wine still needs to age, so drink from 2018.
As with tawny Ports, the other Douro fortified wine, Moscatel, is aged in wood for an average of a decade. In this 10-year old, the wine still has its fruit, but it is just starting to show old wood aging flavors that are beginning to concentrate it. There is a strongly perfumed, spicy aftertaste. Drink now.
As with the 2008 Tulpen Cabernet, the Lewis (Yakima Valley) and Wallula (Horse Heaven Hills) Vineyards provided the fruit. A muscle Merlot, this is smooth and round, bearing flavors of mixed berry and ripe cherry, with added notes of iron and clean earth.
As with the Avery Lane Merlot, this is a rather complex blend, here including Syrah, Cab Franc and Lemberger. Fruity and spicy, with strawberry and cherry candy flavors. Very pleasing picnic wine.
As with the Indian Wells Cabernet, winemaker Bob Bertheau is using a considerable amount of Syrah (19%) to beef up the flavors. The Merlot here seems a bit light, it fades out in midpalate. There is a chalkiness to the finish, and the tannins are just a little green.
As with the other Pinots from Brandborg, this estate bottling puts the spices front and center, and matches the intensity of the fruit and barrels appropriately. This is seductive and elegant with a feminine grace. The spicy plum and red currant flavors carry some tasty barrel notes of clove and cinnamon, and the wine has a bit more intensity than its stablemates.
As with the other single-vineyard wines from Brooks, this was give 18 months in French oak, and shows strong accents of baking spices and plum cake. The fruit leans toward raisins and figs—just on the edge of overripe—and continues into a finish with vanilla wafer and macaroons. There's a lot going on, but it has not (yet) knit together.
As with the winery's Blue Chip bottling, this seems to be approaching an early maturity. Slightly grainy flavors of brown sugar and maple syrup wrap around light cherry candy. The finish is threaded with coffee and butterscotch. This is a wine to enjoy sooner rather than later.
As with the winery's Riesling, no vintage is indicated anywhere on the bottle. Listed at two percent residual sugar, this wine retains enough acid to provide moderate lift to the spicy, almost bitter, pineapple and grapefruit flavors. Citrus rind phenolics, lightly dappled with honeysuckle and other floral highlights, create a rather expansive wine with a substantial finish.
As you'd expect from this pioneering Oregon winery, this is a smooth, sophisticated, accessible yet ageable wine. Polished berry and cherry fruit is swathed in cola and cocoa highlights, running through silky tannins. Drink now through 2020.
As you might infer from the name, this tastes sweet. It appeals to consumers who enjoy the trend of sugary red wines. You could almost drink it as a dessert sipper, with its candied blackberry and cherry flavors.
As young as it comes, this spicy wine has melon and peppered pear flavors. Its fruit is right up front, almost too much at this stage. It needs to calm down a little, so it will be better drunk from 2018.
Ashen mineral tones and stone fruit are backed by thick notes of milky honey and cream. This vineyard-designate Greco di Tufo is very crisp and tonic with lingering citrus flavors. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
Ashy, green and funky smelling, then sweet, chunky and murky tasting. Nothing is meshing here. It's barely acceptable.
Asian and Anjou pear aromas meet with fragrant peach blossom, honeydew and wet stone scents on the nose of this bottling, which shows strong promise for the variety in this region. The palate is richly textured, with light and bright candied red apple and kiwi flavors.
Asian pear and Meyer lemon curd form a viscous, sensual core of balanced richness and acidity in this lovely wine, from a set of vineyard blocks planted partly to 40-plus-year-old heritage vines. A stony quality permeates throughout the fruit, combining for a sense of refreshing complexity.
Asian pear meets a salty taste of the sea in this well-build, moderately ripe white. Gravelly on the midpalate in texture, it has a succulently tropical flourish on the finish and zingy acidity throughout.
Asian pear, candied lemon rinds and the slightest hint of marshmallow show on the nose of this bottling from a northeast-facing vineyard 1,800 feet up in the appellation. Fresh flavors of nectarine and white peach are pleasurably subtle, backed by both warmed lemon-butter elements and salty, savory acidity.
Asian pear, crisp lime juice and crushed chalk show on the nose of this very restrained wine from one of the region's top-tier producers. The palate is framed in lively acidity and strong minerality, presenting flavors of white rocks, lemon peel and brie rind. A nice amount of grip will ensure some aging potential too.
Asian spice and developed bready notes dominate the nose of this mature example. The palate is unctuous with intense, lingering notes of macadamia nuts. Drink with your next order of sweet & sour pork, before the fruit has a chance to fade.
Asian spice and licorice are interlaced into softly stewed fruit aromas and flavors of raspberry, plum and black berry. Silky and easy to drink with dusty tannins and medium acidity.
Asian spice and vanilla are the most immediate aromas but just past them are plum, prune and fresh blackberry. The wine has grit and sophistication and a smooth, velvety feel in the mouth that helps elevate the overall experience.
Asian spice notes grace modest black cherry and herb flavors in this lightweight offering from the Sierras. Finishes short, with some charred-wood notes.
Asian spices, plum jelly and milk chocolate flavors combine in this solid effort, which lacks only a bit more midpalate weight to really excel. As it stands, it is a tasty wine with a slight dip between start and finish.
Aside from hints of dark wild raspberries, this entry-level, second-label wine by Norm Yost doesn't offer overt fruit on the nose, instead showing graphite, dark earth and crushed rocks. Earthy flavors of beet juice and juniper show a slightly sour side, making for an interesting wine, if not completely delicious
Asphalt and gaseous aromas take a while to settle, but after they do, leather and scratchy blackberry scents surface. It feels big and brawny, with max extraction. It tastes masculine but salty, with bitter chocolate and peppery accents. Bulky for $11 wine.
Asphalt and spice aromas are herbal and gritty. This shows a moderately full body and solid structure along with plum and herbal flavors. A dry, peppery finish is slightly rubbery in feel but fresh.
Asphalt, animal hide, olive and herbal berry aromas spell out Carmenère. This is fresh and medium in body, with oaky, herbal plum and raspberry flavors that taste a bit burnt and crusty. Mint and herbal flavors carry the finish on this respectable value offering.
Asphalt, crusty leather and herbal berry aromas are the opening on this racy Merlot. Flavors run from herbal, peppery and olive-driven to red-berry fruits. A spicy finish brings enough red-cherry character to make things work.
Asphalt, leather and paint aromas are present on the scratchy bouquet. It feels clacky, with pushy acidity and flavors of tomato, saline, herb plum and raspberry. It's lively, with a bite to the finish.
Asphalt, licorice and espresso mark the nose of this medium-bodied, juicy Shiraz. The flavors are brighter, hinting at rhubarb, yet still retaining a dark, tarry edge. Drink this mouthwatering wine over the next few years.
Asphalt, sour berries and purple flowers show on the nose of this brawny wine by winery owner, Tara Gomez, a descendent of the Chumash tribe. The rigid tannic structure on the palate allows only thicker espresso bean and more tar flavors to emerge.
Asphalt, wet dirt, blueberry fruit and grapeseed aromas show on the nose of this dark and dense bottling. The palate starts with milk-chocolate shavings followed by tart red-cherry fruit. The acidity is overwhelming, singeing the tongue, and the tannins are a bit chunky. It should improve with cellar time.
Assembled and balanced, this shows bright aromas of citrus and exotic fruit, set against fresh acidity. It's an easy-drinking option for seafood or salad.
Assembled from dozens of individual lots, this sumptuous brut is an example of the art of blending. Based on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it's really as delicious and refined a sparkling wine as you could want for drinking now. Shows lush citrus, strawberry, honey, melon, fig and spice flavors that are wrapped into a smooth, silky bubbling mouthfeel.
Assembled from the best barrels of the vintage, this low-alcohol wine is chewy and forward, with strawberry fruit, cola and a whiff of the chicken yard. It all comes together seamlessly and is immediately drinkable. Best enjoyed now through 2019.
Assembled from the same lots as the winery's more expensive varietal wines, this high-powered, Bordeaux-style blend is one of Walla Walla's best values. Big and bursting with dark-fruit flavors of fig, black cherry and cassis, the barrel aging adds espresso and chocolate in generous amounts. There's noticeable heat on the finish, but no lack of potent flavor.
Assertive and delicious, this light-bodied and dry wine has dramatic aromas of wood smoke, wet stones and even diesel. Those are classic for the German grape varieties from which it was made, as are the light peach and white pepper flavors that ride an elegant texture and slightly sweet balance.
Assertive and spicy, this interesting bottling, from Amity vineyard estate grapes, shows that even at just 13% alcohol Oregon Pinot can cut it. Made in a distinctive style that is clearly neither California nor Burgundy, this herbal, intense, wine puts the focus on the aromas, a beguiling mix of pine and herb. But the fruit is there right behind, tart and sassy, with cola and root beer notes sliding into a well-modulated but tannic finish.
Assertive in its earthy, barnyard-like aromas, this biodynamic, Dijon-clone-based wine is light on its feet. It's ripe flavors are still developing, and it has a finish that one wishes would linger longer.
Assertively grassy, this pungent Sauvignon Blanc also carries a fairly strong diesel scent. Call it Pouilly-Fumé in style, though as a New World wine, it has more fruit, without the bracing minerality. The finish is clean and medium in length.
Assertively toasty and nutty, this is barrel-fermented in new oak, but in 500-liter puncheons, not the smaller barriques, so that the wood doesn't overwhelm. Peach, vanilla and citrus flavors completely fill the mouth, yet remain fresh and vibrant on the finish. Drink now–2012. Imported by Epic Wines.
Assiolo is a slightly tart and bitter expression of Sangiovese with sharp aromas of cherry fruit and plum. The tannins show an astringent and nervous quality.
Assobio is from a single vineyard in the Quinta dos Murças estate. A powerful, structured expression of Douro wine, it has black fruits, dark tannins, some subtle layers of wood aging and great concentration. Dark and richly fruity, it needs to mature before drinking. Wait until 2017.
Assorted aromas of blue, red and black fruit and dried herbs lead to ripe, full-bodied fruit flavors with a lingering finish. Chewy tannins back it, with the volatiles amped up.
Assorted blue fruit, coffee, green tea and barrel-spice aromas lead to full-bodied fruit flavors that carry a touch of warmth.
Assorted dried herbs, pink peppercorn and bell pepper aromas mix with dark cherries. The cherry and black currant flavors are sweet with dry, chalky tannins backing them up.
Astonishingly deep in flavor, offering an explosion of the ripest cherries and raspberries imaginable. Additional notes of toasty oak, brown sugar and cinnamon spice make this Pinot irresistible, while the acidity brings all the richness to life. Drink now–2016.
Astonishingly, there’s no aroma at all here, absolutely none. It’s like smelling tap water. In the mouth there are some faint flavors of lime, but you have to use your imagination. It is clean and nicely dry, but it’s sad to report how empty this wine really is.
Astoria is a tried-and-true estate that most always delivers fresh, clean and correct expressions of Prosecco. This boasts lively aromas of stone fruit and citrus backed by a soft, creamy mousse.
Astralis has become one of Australia's top collectibles, and Roman Bratasiuk's 2005 version is once again top-shelf stuff. It's full-bodied and rich without being over the top, balancing dark-chocolate-covered blackberries and blueberries with more complex savory notes (spice, grilled meat). While it's a big, hulking wine at first, the finish shows great elegance and finesse, ending with silky tannins. Best from 2014. Imported by Wine Brokers Unlimited.
Astringent tannin mars wild cherry and sage tones that take on a heightened sense of ripeness in this vineyard-designate.
Astringent, stemmy tannins almost overtake the fruit, which is light and slightly sweet. Some strawberry fruit leads quickly into a drying, earthy finish.
asygoing and well-priced, this Sicilian Shiraz delivers spice, ginger and tobacco. It is crisp and lean and offers bright fruit flavors.
At $8, this is a great find, and has the exotic Bulgarian label to boot. The nose is all lemon zest and spice, and on the palate there is a lively, minerally punch with soft citrus flavors layered over it. A lovely summer sipping wine, best paired with seafood and salads.
At 1,100 feet, this high-altitude vineyard yields a crisp and tangy wine. The brothers, whom Becky Wasserman lists among the Fuissé “revolutionaries,” employ biodynamic practices. The wine has great swathes of bright acidity and a tight, mineral texture. With lively acidity, it is a bright, fruity wine to drink now.
At 1,200 feet, the Underwood Mountain vineyard brings a certain illumination and transparency to the Riesling grape. It's a style both elegant and intense, and nowhere else in Washington state except the Columbia Gorge does Riesling achieve this sort of delicate power. Scents and flavors of blossom, citrus and stone fruits combine in a gorgeous display. It's bright, lip-smacking and beautifully balanced.
At 1.8% residual sugar, this estate-grown Riesling carries some definite sweetness, along with a tangy mix of lime, grapefruit and citrus peel. Leesy and textural, it puts the focus on citrus rather than floral flavors, and tails off in the finish.
At 12g/L residual sugar, this just barely qualifies as dry. Fruit flavors suggest lemon curd and green pineapple, and there's an interesting savory note. But flatness across the palate keeps the score from going higher.
At 15% abv, this wine tastes frankly prickly and hot. It has luscious flavors of blackberries, red currants, mocha and oak, but that heat detracts from the enjoyment. Drink up.
At 15% alcohol, it does show a trace of warmth on the finish, but this is a full-bodied, richly textured wine of great appeal. Cassis fruit dominates, with hints of cherry, camphor and asphalt adding nuance. Best from 2012–2018.
At 15.9% abv, this is a monster by Finger Lakes standards, but it's unsurprising perhaps for such a hot vintage. A tad jammy on the palate, it's sweet with red cherry fruit that's framed by herbaceous green notes and layers of soft, furry tannins.
At 160g/L residual sugar, this late-harvest wine brings plenty of sweetness with its lightly spritzy marmalade, orange peel and pear aromas and flavors, yet it still retains an appealing sense of lightness and balance as well. The length is impressive.
At 2.3% residual sugar, this is nicely balanced between sweet and dry. The fruit links peach, apricot and pear with a honey in tea streak that carries into the finish.
At 20 years, aged tawnies bear fruit and concentrated wood flavors, plus dry acidity. This is rich and poised, and it has a fine, full finish.
At 20g/L of residual sugar, this is sweet enough to work well with spicy dishes, like many curries. Green apple, peach and pineapple flavors show a fine balance of ripeness and acidity on the long, mouthwatering finish.
At 21,000 cases, this might be the biggest production Pinot Noir in the county. This good, introductory-level Pinot has a silky mouthfeel and crisp, refined flavors of raspberry, cherry and beet. Don't look for complexity. Just enjoy.
At 30-years-old, white Port and its more familiar cousin tawny Port are almost alike in their spice, wood and intense character. The differences with white Ports, as here, are their greater fruitiness, spice and of course their beautiful gold color. They offer a fine, concentrated wine that should be drunk now.
At 35-years-old, this golden wine may be old, but it is still glorious. Still honeyed, with hints of its past yellow and bitter-orange fruit still there, the wine is intense, with toast, almonds and a richness that is so concentrated. Drink now.
At 40 acres, Saint-Pierre is small for the Médoc, but it is certainly performing well. As fine as the 2005, the 2008 is a stylish wine that also packs a firm punch of dense fruit, firm tannins and mouthwateringly juicy acidity. For medium-term aging.
At 50% Cab and 50% Malbec, this wine runs outside the mainstream for Argentina. It's dark in color but slightly green and stemmy on the nose. The palate offers a solid mouthfeel with flavors of baked berry fruit, earth and carob. It's sweet at its core, but mildly bitter and candied on the finish. Good but struggles to find a pleasurable sweet spot.
At 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a firm, cassis-scented wine, but one that includes hints of ripeness and generous fruit. Dried herbs and brown sugar add nuance, while the velvety finish picks up some meaty, savory notes. Drink now–2025.
At 50,000 cases imported, this must be one of the most ubiquitous New Zealand Pinots in the United States. It's medium bodied and tightly wound, with a crisp core of mouthwatering acidity that adds zest to the flavors of dark cherry, earth and leather. Drink now.
At 6% residual sugar and just 7% alcohol, you might expect this to be dessert-like. But the delicate spritz and grapefruit-like acidity keeps it in the apéritif range, with Moscato-like orange-candy flavors and a juicy, fruity mouthfeel.
At 6+ years post-vintage, this wine seems pretty mature. The tannins are supple, while the fruit is starting to take on some dried character. Other notes include molasses, caramel, dried leaves and tomato. The blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Sangiovese.
At 600-feet in elevation, this is the site that's behind a wine of structure and considerable power. A thick rich layering of currant and blackberry is soft with a tannic backbone. Clove and tobacco contribute secondary aspects of complexity.
At 62,000-plus cases, you are in the land of the seamless blend. Oregon does not have vast contiguous vineyards, so these grapes must have come from here, there and everywhere. The result is a gentle, lightly fruity, crisp, clean and innocuous Pinot Noir that lacks only a sense of place.
At 7.5 g/L of residual sugar, this is more off-dry than dry, but the acidity is high enough to provide a sense of crispness. In this plump, medium-bodied Riesling, peach and citrus strike a fine balance, ending with a dollop of lime sherbet. Drink now–2018.
At 70% Garnacha and 30% Tempranillo, this hold-over from the sketchy 2002 harvest starts with an odd blend of clove and shaved wood notes, while the palate pushes basic cherry and tangy raspberry flavors.
At 70% Tempranillo and only 25% Cabernet and Merlot, there's a detectable green core running through the nose and palate. Surrounding that is sizable fruit and oak, the latter of which adds dill to the fray. All in all there's enough body and soul to save the wine, but along the way it's got some issues.
At 75% Sangioveto (a particular Sangiovese clone) and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, this beauty really pops both in the nose and in the mouth. It's quite international in style, meaning the Cabernet softens the Sangiovese, yielding a sweet and ripe product that has both character and proper balance. Despite 18 months in oak, the ripe fruit of the '99 vintage remains front and center.
At 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, this isn't a typical assemblage for Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Fermented and aged in concrete, it's reticent at this stage of its evolution, showing hints of paraffin and honey but remaining largely neutral. Unlike most white Châteauneufs, it would probably benefit from a few years of cellaring.
At 81%, this could be a varietally labeled Merlot, with the rest Cabernet Franc (15%) and Petit Verdot. It appeals with pretty aromas of cocoa, wood spice and jammy red fruit that are followed by full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors that pack a wallop while staying in balance.
At 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot, this drinks like a Cab, combining ripe cassis and chocolate notes with hints of mint, brown sugar and cinnamon. It's full-bodied and a bit chewy in texture, which should serve it well through at least 2015.
At 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot, this is a sculpted, perfumed second-vintage red with cranberry as well as cherry fruit and well-integrated oak. What makes this a winner, especially with food, is that the crystalline, racy fruit far outshadows the oak. It's not old-school, but you'd still have to call it a traditional Tuscan wine.
At 93% Shiraz, many wineries would have just labeled it as Shiraz, but not Hollick. The wine itself has lots of tart, almost sour, cherry fruit that marries well with the earthy, bitter undercurrents. Very smooth and supple in the mouth. Only light tannins make this a wine to drink now. —J.C.
At 98 years of age, the vineyard certainly qualifies as old vine, which isn't the case with all wines so labeled. Who really knows what varieties actually constitute these ancient vineyards, but this wine is certainly rich in Zinfandel character. The wild raspberry and cherry fruits have a briary edge, suggesting the tartness of Dr. Pepper cola, the nettles of summer chamomile and the savoriness of green peppercorn. There's little question that the wine will age well, but there's no reason not to drink it now, with proper decanting.
At a fraction of the cost of the Velvet Glove, readers can try this wine with similar results. It's full, rich and expansive on the palate. Warm waves of ripe berries suffuse the palate, tinged with Mexican chocolate, vanilla and mocha. Drink now–2025.
At a full 91% of the blend, this could be labeled as Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc rounding it out. It's shut down aromatically at present with assorted dried herbs poking through. The palate brings highly structured fruit flavors, with vibrant acidity tying it all together. Decant for a day if drinking in the near term; it will be best after 2022.
At a modest 12.5% abv, this is a medium-bodied, only slightly fleshy Chardonnay. Understated smoke and citrus aromas kick things off, followed by flavors of mandarin orange, lemon and toasted cashew that finish crisp and tart.
At a time when California rosés are marching toward dryness, this one hews to a richer path. It has flavors of raspberries, strawberries and white sugar.
At a time when many others have dropped Sangiovese from their portfolios, Amador Foothill remains committed to the great grape of Tuscany. The wine is medium-bodied and soft, somewhat like a warm-climate Merlot, with a pepper edge to the cherry and red currant flavors. It finishes dry and elegant.
At a time when so many California rosés are blah, Fort Ross' is the real deal. Dry and crisply structured, it shows raspberry, cherry, lavender, thyme and pepper flavors that have an edge of mouthwatering bitterness.
At a whopping 17.5% alcohol, this powerful Amarone delivers heat, brawn and loads of mature cherry, ripened blackberry and tobacco. You can feel the burn on the close so be careful to pair this wine with a hearty winter dish that will soak it all up.
At about four years of age, Talbott's '04 tastes overripe. It has the aromas and flavors of a botrytized, late-harvest Chardonnay, brimming with apricot jam and pineapples, except that it's bone dry. With the very high acidity, this makes it unbalanced and not entirely enjoyable. This is a bottling that seems to do better in cooler vintages.
At about four years of age, this Syrah's blackberry and cherry fruits are starting to dry out, yielding to notes of mushrooms, beef jerky and sweet herbs. Lots of tannins and acids suggest pairing soon with steak or lamb.
At about six years of age, this Bordeaux blend is soft, fruity and ending its useful lifespan. The cherry and cola flavors are drying out. Drink up.
At age 20, this fantastic wine proves the serious aging potential of top Etna Biancos. Boasting intriguing depth and complexity, it delivers layers of lemon drop, dried apricot, ginger, dried Mediterranean herb and star anise with an intriguing balsamic note and a mineral-driven finish.
At almost 16 years old, this auslese exhibits the delicate transition Riesling makes from fruit to earth. Smoke, dusty minerals, saffron and caramel dominate the palate. Texturally, it seems layered with silk and astringency. On the finish, racy acidity lifts and revitalizes.
At almost five years of age, this wine is mellow, smooth and incredibly good. It shows classic Cabernet flavors of blackberries and sweet cassis liqueur. It is beautifully concentrated with ripe fruit just starting to develop interesting, aged characteristics. Just beautiful for drinking now, and should continue to evolve in the bottle for at least six more years.
At almost half Cabernet Franc (49%), this is slightly leafier than what most producers are pulling out of the Gimblett Gravels. The balance is Cabernet Sauvignon (39%), with small amounts of Merlot (9%) and Malbec (3%). The tobacco, chocolate and cassis notes are carried by medium body and a firm, dry texture. Drink 2019–2030.
At almost two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a dark, intense, cassis-laden wine. It's full-bodied and richly textured, with obvious cellaring potential of at least 7 or 8 years. Dark chocolate and gentle coffee notes creep in on the midpalate, while the long, mouthwatering finish features layers of soft tannins.
At an impressive 13-years-old, this deeply golden-hued wine opens with subtle aromas of toasted nut, pressed acacia flower and honey. The round, evolved palate still boasts freshness while the tertiary flavors include lemon zest, ginger, smoky mineral and a hint of marzipan.
At around $20 per bottle, this is a solid Pinot Noir for the money. It's medium in body and silky in texture, with black cherry fruit and subtle shadings of iris and vanilla that ling on the finish. Drink now–2020.
At David Hill, the Winemakers Cuvée is a cut above the reserve. It's a muscular blend of scents and flavors of lavender, cherry and chocolate wrapped into a firm, focused finish.
At first a bit sharp and volatile, this has both substantial residual sugar (50 g/L) and significant alcohol for a late harvest wine. It's spicy and lightly honeyed, and opens nicely into a mix of candied pear and pineapple fruit, with streaks of vanilla running through.
At first a stiff, unyielding wine, this shows promising—though compact—dark fruits with a strong herbal streak. Fresh greens and other herbs move into a finish with barrel flavors of tar and espresso.
At first blush this reserve seems more oaky, more open and more overtly alcoholic than the just-released Leonetti 2008 Merlot and 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. After many hours of breathing time it fills in with pretty plummy fruit, toast, caramel, whiffs of smoke, cedar and cigar box, and dry tannins.
At first blush, this comes across scratchy and raw on the nose. In the mouth, it's more jammy than lively, with saturated, reduced flavors of blueberry and prune. On the finish, this feels big for its britches and tastes mildly bitter.
At first glance it may seem a little saucy, but as it gains its legs this aged Yecla wine shows solid plum, berry and cassis aromas and flavors along with a lively, healthy palate. It's incredibly smooth in the mouth, and definitely ready to go. Spice and chocolate are the finishing touches to what amounts to a nice, warm-climate Mourvèdre. A Europvin, Christopher Cannan selection, Imported by multiple importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines.
At first glance, this appears to be a well-made but fairly innocuous Marlborough Sauvignon. But give it a little more time in bottle, or air in the glass, and it fills out, gaining length and complexity. Pineapple and stone fruit aromas and flavors are appealing from the start, but the quality shines through on the long, vibrant finish that's filled with suggestions of nectarine and wet stone.
At first glance, this is not particularly impressive; it's slightly herbal and rustic, with a raisiny edge to the fruit. But this really improves with air, fleshing out on the midpalate and losing the raisiny notes in favor of plum and savory notes. Give it four or five years in the cellar and drink it over the next 15 or so.
At first high-toned with sharp edges, this rewards decanting with an expansive core of purple plum, bramble, tobacco and licorice flavors. It's open and accessible, with some chalkiness as it finishes.
At first high-toned, this opens nicely with crisp green apple fruit flavors. It's balanced and clear. Don't look for big, blowsy tropical flavors or buttery oak, though the barrel fermentation provides some texture to the finish. A great food wine.
At first impression, this wine seems a bit less ripe than its single-vineyard siblings. A hint of tomato in the nose gives an herbal edge, and there is more than enough tart acidity under the light red fruits. It's clean and refreshing, with tasty raspberry fruit, but does not show the density and detail of the other 2012 vineyard designates.
At first it almost smells too Port-like, but then peppery spice enters the picture and it takes off. And while it weighs a ton and shows some aggression, it's lovable for its pure blackberry and complex spice and chocolate flavors. Long and grabby on the finish, with big tannins. Drink now, or hold through 2020.
At first it reveals a layer of damask rose petals and white blossom. Then a deeper, riper notion unfolds, almost hinting at pineapple. Concentrated but slender, the palate manages to remain refreshing and light despite the heady aromas. Perfectly pitched with just a hint of spice.
At first oaky and tannic, this needs breathing time to show more of its fruit. Red-berry flavors come up slowly, along with lighter notes of herb and stem.
At first pass, this feels a little tired, with a somewhat feeble nose and flavors that could tend toward bitter. But in the mouth, the wine impresses—the fruit is pretty and round, the mouthfeel smooth. Spice and fruit come together nicely and chase away any austerity that may be lurking. The finish is good and layered.
At first pour, it's awfully tough in tannins, and can hardly express itself. After a while, the heart of black currants and cherries opens up generously, making it lovely to drink now and over the next five years.
At first quite tart, almost sour, with a strong yeasty aroma, this unusual wine can seem simple and dilute. Give it several hours to open up and it rewards you with delicate yet persistent flavors of citrus and stone, with refreshing acidity. Such low-alcohol white wines can be a delight with shellfish and other appetizers.
At first sharp and focused, with sharp aromas of pine and citrus rind, this broadens out and thins quickly once in the mouth. Fresh green apple fruit fades into a smooth, plain, slightly watery finish.
At first sharp and showing the influence of barrel aging in roughly 20% new French oak, this opens up and smoothes out into a supple, buttery wine. It's rich with flavors of pineapple, baked apple, sweet spices and a hint of mint. Polished and sophisticated, it generously rewards your attention with plenty of delicious details.
At first shy and brooding, this slowly opens up in the glass, offering aromas of black-skinned berry, blue flower, licorice and flint. The palate has concentration and finesse, boasting chewy black cherry, blackberry, chopped mint, anise and mineral alongside firm acidity and lithe tannins. Give this time to fully develop. Drink 2017–2023.
At first shy on the nose, this opens to reveal baking spice and dried violet aromas. A tobacco note underscores its mature black plum and ripe blackberry flavors while smooth tannins offer easygoing support. Drink through 2019.
At first smelling like a bowl of red punch, this bottling quickly slides into dark, savory herbals, featuring a bit of five-spice blend that evolves as you sniff. On the palate, it's smooth and soothing, with blueberry and other dark blue fruits as well as anise. There is noticeable tannic structure, so this will hold well for a few more years.
At first soft and understated, the nose slowly emerges with the lush pomegranate, cranberry and sagebrush aromas common to the appellation. It's very spice with clove on the front of the palate, then evolves into a long-lasting finish of red cherry.
At first stark and steely, this is the earthiest of Bergström's 2009 Pinots, with a streak of beetroot, tightly wound and substantial red fruits, and an earthy base behind well-delineated tannins. Give it time to breathe, and some lovely cinnamon highlights emerge.
At first take, the aromas are of barbecued meats, beets and earth; later some lemony oak emerges. The fruit here is nice: It's a clean mix of cassis and cherry, with toasty oak-based undercurrents. Very solid and sturdy, and a bit charred at the edges. Try it for a positive look into modern Carmenère.
At first taste, the tannins dominate. Then fresher fruit shows through. The wine is firmly dry, the texture linear, the fruit showing some black currant character.
At first taste, this is a difficult wine to evaluate because of its tight, compact and tannic structure. Pomegranate and strawberry fruits slowly emerge from a shell of earthy tannins, suggesting that with a few more years in the bottle this will evolve into a broader, more expressive wine.
At first taste, this seems soaked in wood (30 months in American, Hungarian and French oak; one-third new). Flavors suggest coffee over cassis, with a somewhat bitter, tannic finish. Let it breathe.
At first taste, this wine seems more new world than Bordeaux. But then the subtle, perfumed aromas and structured fruit show through, along with the clean acidity and black tannic fruits. Give this wine at least 12 years before opening.
At first the aroma is sharp, even clumsy, showing herbs, peanuts and even bacon fat. The fruit is in the big-plum range. A heavy dose of oak has been thrown at this wine, so it’s buttery on the palate and coffee-tinged on the finish.
At first the aromas of hard cheese and blatant oak veil the black fruit quotient in this blend. However, in the mouth the wine is more expressive and ripe, with plum, berry and ample oak-driven vanilla. It doesn't appear to have much depth or complexity, but overall it is smooth and pleasant.
At first the lick of oak-derived vanilla overlays the fruit but then aromatic notes of ripe red currant and red cherry appear. The palate is silky and offers exciting snatches of white pepper and welcome earthiness. The body is light but full of subtlety. It is white pepper rather than oaky spice that lingers.
At first the nose is bland, offering what a Spanish speaker would call nada. But with time some dry, spicy flavors and modest yet clean tropical fruit rise up. The finish turns a bit heavy and oaky, but with a proper chilling, this should go down smoothly. It has the basics in terms of banana and papaya-like fruit. –M.S.
At first the nose is high toned and jumpy, but with time it falls into a good place with a medicinal berry note at the fore. Solid, tannic and nervy, it has plum and noticeable young-oak flavors. This turns herbal tasting and choppy on the finish.
At first the nose is like caramelized popcorn, a forward combination of oak and toast. The flavors are of apple, pear and citrus, and that well-blended package is carried by excellent acidity, the type you could call “bracing.” The finish goes on for quite some time, proof that this is a ripe, healthy wine that's hitting its stride.
At first the nose is scattered, offering iodine and Italian herbs but little fruit. In the mouth, blackberries appear. The finish is a bit like coffee. This wine has some character and appeal but also some fading characteristics. Maybe this 1998, never a great year, is just too old.
At first the nose on this Malbec seems granulated, with individual notes of heady black fruits, oak, iron and dried blood. The palate is saturated but without much lift. Solid blackberry and chocolate flavors extend across a finish with stature.
At first the raspberry and plum aromas are stunted and the palate seems round but basic. More airing reveals raspberry, cassis and strawberry flavors. In the end it winds up as a friendly, medium-intensity Cabernet that's good for immediate consumption.
At first the scents and flavors of cola, root beer and Dr Pepper seem to dominate, though not unpleasantly. The impact continues with brown sugar, molasses and black cherry fruit—a soda-lover's wine. But there is more here as it breathes, adding texture and weight, with streaks of licorice, smoke and tar.
At first the tight nose is a bit like tar and industrial cleaner, but once it fans out some black fruit emerges. The palate is tight and tannic, but fresh and ripe. And the finish is healthy but also rather tannic. Good with barbecued meats and the like.
At first there is the juiciness of freshly cut green pear, then there is an explosion of white pepper bedded in yeasty softness. Framed by citrus and more green pear fruit, the pepper just continues to delight on the concentrated core. Lovely, full-flavored finish.
At first this comes across as being a bit heavy, yeasty and tight. With time, however, this should be full of bramble-fruit flavors. This is a well-crafted wine, with structure and elegance that should start to show in 3–5 years.
At first this is aggressive, with an aromatic note of wet dog along with blueberries. But soon it finds its legs and opens to display chocolate, espresso and a big batch of black plum and blackberry. The finish has full tannins and some coffee-like flavor. Currently it's wall-to-wall big, but it should settle down in no time and become a good red to drink on any occasion.
At first this is bready, and that's all. With airing, things turn more complex. In the mouth, this feels racy and firmly acidic, while flavors of citrus turn yeasty and malty with time. A long, layered, yeasty finish shows a slow pulse and not much zest.
At first this is constrained to the point of thinness, then the wine breathes open to reveal tart red berries, dried herbs and lemongrass. A whiff of orange peel adds interest. Though aged 15 months in 60% new French oak, it shows little oak influence in its flavors.
At first this is lactic and heavy, but later it becomes charred and toasty. Its feel is full, round and fairly smooth, with baked plum, berry, vanilla and chocolate flavors. The finish is toasty and solid. Good for a 50,000-case production.
At first this lively, fairly full-bodied Rioja smells rubbery and earthy, with baked plum and raspberry aromas, but it eventually opens and smells more elegant and classy. Wild berry, plum and oak spice are the key flavors, followed by pepper and resiny wood notes on a fresh, racy finish. Drink through 2022.
At first this Merlot-led blend is heavily charred and toasty on nose, but with time baked berry aromas rise up. A full palate features a lactic note offset by jagged acidity, while toasty, herbal flavors include berry, mint and wood resin. This is Merlot, Shiraz, Tempranillo and Viognier.
At first this muscular wine feels tight, even stiff, with crisply defined plum and cassis fruit. The only knock on it is the drying tannins, which leave a chalky aftertaste. Pair with a juicy cut of pork or salmon.
At first this profoundly compelling wine seems rather light, but as it pirouettes on a base of cherry and sassafras, it constantly shifts and sends up shafts of previously undetected flavors. Popcorn, saffron and just the faintest hint of barnyard emerge—suddenly it becomes a full-throttle cherry bomb that can best be described as yummy.
At first this seems over the top (it's 15.8%). But give the wine time and you'll find the ultimate presentation of ripeness, richness and depth. The flavors are thick and black, with chunky black plum, prune, syrup and more. But it's also healthy and not flabby, with balance and a sense of being. Excellent if you like monster reds.
At first this seems sculpted in a feminine style, meaning elegant, graceful and light on its feet. It's a complete and satisfying wine, with strawberry, raspberry and cola flavors intertwined. Some tougher tannins show up in the finish, suggesting that a few more years of bottle age may add both length and further complexity.
At first this shows some earthy, volatile aromas. The mineral-driven palate has tart, slightly bitter fruit flavors, suggesting crabapple and wild berry.
At first this smells like plastic and sweet black fruits mixed with chocolate. The palate feels heavy and raw, while flavors of muddled yet tart plum and berry finish big, minty and slightly green.
At first this smells raw and oaky, so much so that notes of paint and paste are as prominent as vanilla. In the mouth, however, this is a fresh wine with tomatoey acidity. Flavors of baked berry, plum and raisin blend with herbal notes, while the finish is long and tastes of vanilla and spice.
At first this wine is a touch skunky and strange, but they say time heals all wounds, and such is the case here. As it unfolds in the glass the wine offers sweet berry fruit and some wood notes. The finish is a little like beets and spice, but in that there's intrigue and appeal. Good tannins and acids ensure a proper mouthfeel.
At first this wine seems quite astringent, closed and tight. It shows dark streaks of cassis and dried leaf, and it only reluctantly opens up to expand the black fruit flavor with a wash of Bourbon barrel.
At first whiff this wine smells burnt, but that fades to show a buttered popcorn, nutty aroma. A walnut-like astringency accompanies the otherwise smooth and viscous texture.
At first whiff, there's a slightly odd funkiness to this co-fermented blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, but that blows off with time. Aromas of dill, green peppercorns, wet cedar and forest underbrush lead into flavors of freshly sliced rare beef, dried mulberry, fresh elderberry and slightly sour tar.
At first, a rush of front-loaded plum and blackberry fruit hits the palate, then the flavors seem to sag a bit entering the midpalate. A wall of still-to-be-resolved oak leads into a hard, astringent, somewhat woody finish. Yet there is a substantial and well-built wine here, waiting to resolve its components into a more seamless whole. Retasted after being open a full day, it showed well, suggesting good aging potential.
At first, all you sense is a heavy, operatic costume of chocolaty, smoky, coffee-like oak flavors. Underneath these, a ripe and slightly sweet boysenberry soul keeps the drama going. Like a sturdy stage set, the richly laced tannins support the fruit and oak until the curtain falls.
At first, the bouquet seems dense and tinged with a mild lactic note, but that moves on rather quickly. The flavor profile of banana, pear and apple is perfectly fine, while the finish is a bit lean.
At first, there is a hint of rather ripe red cherry upon which follows an aromatic streak of dried orange peel. The palate is supersoft, ripe and mellow, adding plump black cherry into the mix.
At first, thin and woody, and not much in the way of fruit. Going back, it showed a little more, but still seemed angular and tannic, although a lot more fruit was visible. A wine that improved with air but only up to a point.
At first, this black-colored Garnacha smells horsey and reduced, but with time it exudes more aromatic harmony and quality. A big tannic palate is rough like sandpaper. Blackberry, pepper and chocolate flavors don't rise to a level of excellence, while a heavy saturated finish closes out this muscular red.
At first, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat and Syrah smells so baked and oaky that it seems overripe. In the mouth, the tannins are like sandpaper, while oaky flavors of rooty, baked berry fruits end timid, with a heavy slathering of residual barrel flavors.
At first, this comes across as raisiny and maybe even overripe. With airing, it settles on baked black fruits and density. Flavors of ripe berry, baked plum and raisin are undeniably chunky and deep, while oak and prune take over on the finish. Drink sooner rather than later.
At first, this displays an almost grassy freshness, then fine bubbles bring out a certain savouriness on the palate that would work incredibly well with seafood, tempura or any number of lighter foods. If you are planning a dinner around sparkling wine, put this one on your list. The dry but rich and spicy finish call out for food.
At first, this is plump on the nose, with cherries and warm star anise. Aromas of dried plum skins, orange rind and bitter black tea then reveal layers of complexity. Light in body and energetic on the palate, it shows strong peppery spice against the tart red fruit, making for a very lively experience.
At first, this Riesling looks sort of bland and troubled—the aromas are nondescript, the mouthfeel broad. But this wine really improves given time—the melon and peach fruit comes alive and crisp, citrusy notes assert themselves on the finish.
At first, this smells almost entirely of wood and stalky berry fruits; with time, it takes on a cedary quality but remains leathery, minty and rooty. On the palate this is grabby while stalky, briny flavors of herbal fruits end rustic minty and challenging.
At first, this smells charred and meaty, but blackberry, leather and roasted plum aromas soon sneak out. This runs big, with good acidity and manageable tannins. Flavors of cherry and cassis are lively and familiar.
At first, this smells gaseous and rubbery, but airing reveals ripe blackberry aromas, graphite and warmth. In the mouth, this Mencía is jammy and woody; flavors of resiny, salty black fruits are chunky, while barrel influences carry onto the finish, which tastes of hickory, mixed spices and cassis. Drink through 2017.
At first, this smells unexpectedly of almonds. But overall, this is a viscous bottle of raisin, blackberry and tar flavors.
At first, this Tannat smells chalky and minerally; later it's leafy and a touch soapy in aromas. A fierce angular palate delivers tart black-plum flavors with tea notes. The finish is linear and long due to hard-driving acidity.
At first, this wine seems fruity and direct, loaded with dark berry fruit. But over time, it develops more and more oak character, adding notes of cedar, vanilla and mint. It's creamy in texture, with silky tannins, but remains a bit woody on the finish.
At first, this wine tastes overworked, with very ripe pineapple, lime and mango flavors elaborated with sweet new oak. But then acidity washes in, drying it out, and letting a minerality hit that grounds the wine. If it finished drier, the score would soar.
At five years of age, this Cab Franc still retains a solid core of sweet, jammy cherry fruit, accented with a sprinkling of black pepper, ground cloves, cinnamon, cocoa and vanilla. It also has a dusty coating of tannins that will fare well with a grilled steak.
At five years old, this is soft and supple, with well-integrated plum, cherry, spice and cola components. It's smooth and seamless and should be drunk soon.
At five years old, this shows green pepper, dark fruit, tar and barrel spice scents followed by restrained fruit and barrel flavors. Its jalapeño-like notes are distracting.
At five years, the wine still retains some charm, but is showing its age. It's   a little tired in structure, and the fruit is fading, turning dry and leathery. But there's cherries and cassis, with some complexity in the finish. Drink now.
At five years, this balanced, ripe wine is both elegant and concentrated. Fine tannins support the red cherry and black berry fruits, with layers of acidity and minerality. The wine, well balanced, is ready to drink.
At five years, this Bordeaux blend is ruggedly dry and firmly tannic, with a baked or cooked edge to the blackberries. It's not very flattering now, but there's a slim chance it could soften and sweeten with age.
At five years, this Cabernet is not aging well. It's soft and simple, with the black cherry fruit flavors thinning out, letting hot alcohol show through.
At four-plus years of age, this single-vineyard Syrah still has babyfat flavors of blackberry jam, cassis, red currants, licorice, cola, Asian spice and smoky oak that are fresh and vibrant. It's lovely now, with a rich texture of finely-ground tannins, but should develop additional complexity with another five years in the cellar.
At four-plus years, the tannins are resolved, although far from absent. Acidity is also high. Finally the wine is coming around, with spicy plum and cassis flavors, but it is teetering on the verge of old age already, and has an edge of senility.
At four years of age, this Merlot is as good as it will ever be. It's rustic in texture, with some sharp edges, and ripe raspberry, cherry and cola flavors.
At its peak now, so you may actually want to wait for the release of the 2010. If not, this wine delivers crisp green-apple aromas, vanilla and soda cracker. The palate is crisp but not assaulting like a splash of battery acid, and the flavors of apple, saline and minerality are true to Txakoli. Finishes like zesty apple cider; drink immediately.
At just 11.2% abv, Bedell's delicate 2011 Cabernet Franc is a remarkable reflection of what good winemaking can do in a difficult vintage. Austere in profile, with tart red-cherry flavors, it's accented by violet florals and an array of mineral tones that add complexity. Soft tannins make for easy drinking.
At just 12.5% alcohol, this comes across as dry and quite fresh, with vivid grapefruit flesh and acidity. Some mint and lemon flavors sneak in also. The emphasis is clearly on citrus rather than peach or apricot; a fine food wine.
At just 12.5% alcohol, you'll find this lively, light, fruity Pinot has a sweet core of pretty cherry fruit. Nonetheless, it's dry and finishes with an astringent, leafy, palate-refreshing scrape of tannin. A fine sipping wine, with a resonant finish.
At just 12.6% alcohol, this might seem underripe for warm climate varieties, but it tastes perfectly full and nicely balanced. It's tart and lemony, to be sure, and in fact makes a fine accompaniment to fresh-shucked oysters.
At last Failla can use this newl-approved appellation for their estate-grown fruit. The wine is concentrated in raspberry and cherry jam and sweet oak flavors. The acidity associated with this extreme western edge of Sonoma County, so near the ocean, is brisk and stimulating. The flavors are a little candied now, but you might try giving it 4–5 years to see  if it gains bottle complexity.
At less than $30, this entry-level beerenauslese is an exceptional value. Savory and sweet play hand-in-hand on the nose and palate, balancing notes of dried herb and with unctuously sweet orange and pear. Dusty saffron and herb tones are quite pronounced on the palate, but the finish is vibrant, with hints of lemon and tangerine zest.
At less than 13% abv, this is on the lighter side of the Rhône white spectrum, offering simple pear and toasted marshmallow aromas and flavors that finish lean and crisp.
At less than 14% abv, this reflects a growing sensibility within Barossa. It's a medium- to full-bodied wine with supple tannins and a refreshing, moreish finish. Cinnamon and mocha notes hang from plummy fruit. Drink now–2020.
At more than four years of age, this Cabernet is as good as it will ever be. It's soft and gentle in black raspberry and cherry jam flavors, with a sugary sweet finish.
At more than four years of age, this Syrah is very dry. It's also tannic, with a hard, astringent bite to the blackberries. Somewhat rustic, it seems unlikely to develop in the bottle.
At more than six years of age, this 100% Cabernet is dropping its primary blackberry fruit flavors, revealing its underlying flaws. It remains severely dry, acidic and tannic, with mushrooms emerging, while high alcohol gives it a bite of heat.
At more than six years of age, this wine is as fresh and fruity as if it were made yesterday, with blackberry, cherry and blueberry jam, currant and mocha flavors, enriched with toasty, caramelized oak. The tannins are strong, yet smooth and refined. The wine is so gorgeous right out of the bottle, you can drink it now, but try giving it six more years to really show its stuff.
At nearly 10 years of age, this beautiful Gewürz shows how well a good California dessert wine can age. It's still brisk in clean acidity, but is honeyed and sweet, with nearly 19% residual sugar. Shows rich, exotic pineapple, tangerine marmalade, gingerbread, apricot jam, buttered toast, crème brûlée, vanilla cream and spice flavors, leading to a long, deliriously delicious finish. A heady, flamboyantly sweet wine to drink now.
At nearly 80% Grenache, this is a full-bodied, creamy-textured rendering of the Barossa's classic red trio. Savory, peppery elements add welcome complexity to the nose, while the flavors fold in hints of molasses and plum, then end on a long, supple note. Drink now–2017.
At nearly 80% Merlot and the remainder Malbec, this is a medium-bodied red possessed of bright, vibrant cassis fruit with chocolate and herb overtones. It finishes firm without being hard or tough, so it may be consumed now and over the next 5–7 years.
At nearly eight years of age, this Napa-based Cabernet has just been released by Gershon Bachus, which is based in Temecula. It's a beautiful wine, poised at that delicate balance where the fresh fruit is starting to turn the corner. Already throwing some sediment, it's just at the beginning of a long journey. Drink now–2020.
At nearly four years of age, this Pinot is in an awkward phase. Tasted in March, it was dry, tannic and oaky, with powerful red fruit and mocha flavors. There's a distinctly funky, animal note that lends interest. Hold until 2015 or so.
At nearly seven years in age, this 100% Cabernet is still offering ripe, fresh blackberry, cassis liqueur, dark chocolate and oak flavors. It feels young, with firm, hard tannins, but very fine and complex. Just at the beginning of its journey, it will easily reward further cellaring. Hold until 2015, at the very least.
At nearly six years of age, this Zin is fully ready to drink. It's dropped its hard tannins and is now soft and supple, offering rich flavors of blackberries, cherries, cola, figs, cedar and pepper. Purists will find it overly sweet.
At once powerful and graceful, this delivers alluring aromas and flavors of ripe black cherry, raspberry compote, grilled herb, licorice and an intriguing tarry note. Fresh acidity and firm, velvety tannins provide balance and structure, while a hint of pipe tobacco closes the lingering finish. Drink 2020–2032.
At one moment there is a whiff of fresh apple, the next a hint of wet earth and orange peel. Brisk and dry, the palate also veers from rounded fruit to earthier, funkier notes. It finishes clean and refreshing.
At only $12 per bottle, this is a solid value. The aromas are slightly dusty, like dried rose petal, while the flavors suggest mixed berries and dry earth, with a hint of black tea on the finish. Tannins are silky. Drink now.
At only 10% Syrah, this is quite different in composition from most of Delas's wines. The rest is Grenache, and in 2009 the result is slightly pruny, with touches of coffee, chocolate and Christmas spice. It's full bodied and creamy in texture without being soft, thanks to the crisp acids and silky tannins on the finish. Drink it over the next few years.
At only 6%, the Mataro is mostly window-dressing, but this blend of Grenache (52%) and Shiraz (42%) is still a tasty mouthful. Toast and cedar notes frame black cherry and plum fruit in this full-bodied, lushly textured wine. Drink now–2018.
At only 7% alcohol, this packs plenty of residual sugar, but it's well balanced by crisp lime notes. Strident—almost crystalline—green apple and lime flavors dominate. There's tons of refreshing fruit in this wine, not as much minerality.
At only 7% Merlot, it's unclear why it's even mentioned on the label, especially since it seems to be so obviously Cabernet in style. Cassis and chocolate notes dominate this richly textured, full-bodied red. Drink now.
At only 7.5% alcohol, this is remarkably light and easy to drink, with vibrant notes of fresh peach, honeysuckle, baked apple and sweet, ripe pear, all balanced by ample acidity and brisk carbonation. The sweet fruit flavors are coupled with a lingering toasty richness on the finish. Versatile and friendly, this is an ideal apéritif or after-dinner drink.
At over $20 the brand's Best Buy days are behind it, but this Cabernet still unfolds in serious but elegant form. The nose is dusty and dark, with cassis and blackberry aromas. Meanwhile, the feel is juicy and fresh, and the palate is just sizable enough. Flavors of cassis, chocolate and coconut are modern and friendly, while the finish of cocoa, mocha and marmalade is exciting.
At perfect maturity, this rich and complex wine is ripe and full of the more tropical flavors of Sauvignon Blanc. Peach and pineapple are dominant, cut with acidity and tangy lemon zest. It's a full-bodied, concentrated wine that is ready to drink.
At present, the wood dominates the nose and mouth of this lush, creamy wine. It's brimming with notes of cedar, sweet spice and bittersweet cocoa powder that ride atop the baked cherry and raspberry fruit. The mouthfeel is smooth and plush, with velvety tannins and lingering dry, spicy notes that grace the finish. An infant now, give it some time to further harmonize and the oak to integrate; try after 2019.
At seven years of age, this is a reasonably complex wine, well suited to pair with roasts. The ample oak is integrated with the fruit, yielding a mélange of nuances that include grilled meat, cedar, vanilla, dried spices, coffee, black olives, blackberries and tar. Drink now–2015.
At six years of age, this is just coming into its own. Hints of green fruit remain, tempered by notes of wet stone and toasted marshmallow, harbingers of the full maturity that will arrive in a few years. It's not as lean or edgy as it must've been as a young wine, but is rounding beautifully into form. Drink now–2025.
At the age of 2 1/2 years or so, this fresh Syrah is all about licorice, currant and blackberry fruit, with loads of black pepper. Tastes like it's right out of the fermenter, with firm tannins and bright acidity. Doesn't drink like an ager, so give it a good decant and drink soon.
At the age of 5 1/2 years, this Cabernet is still very forward and sweet in blackberry, cherry, anise and cedar flavors. The tannins are rich and thick, in the way of mountain grapes. The wine tastes a bit one-dimensional, although it could be going through an awkward phase.
At the age of about four years, the fruit on this wine is beginning to shift from primary blackberries and cherries to dried versions of the same. It's also picking up interesting mushroom and cured meat notes. But the tannins remain fierce, and there's some heat from alcohol. Its future seems limited
At the age of five-plus, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc is showing some mileage. It's losing freshness, with dried pineapple, apricot and peach flavors emerging, and an edge of cashews and dried herbs. Yet it remains lively and clean. If you're unfamiliar with an older Sauvignon Blanc, try it. Fully ready now.
At the age of five-plus, this is still a pretty aggressive wine in tannins, with a sandpapery astringency through the finish. But it's also incredibly fruity, offering a blast of superripe blackberries, currants, plums, dark chocolate and pepper. Seems best now and for a couple years.
At the age of five years or so, the cherry, currant and chocolate fruit is starting to pick up aged characteristics, softening and growing mellow and earthy. It's at an awkward stage, midway between youth and maturity. It's a gamble, but try giving it another six years.
At the age of four-plus years, this 100% Cabernet is not showing well. It's very tannic and dry, with mouthwatering acidity and a brittle mouthfeel. The flavors are elusive, suggesting black currants, oak and minerals, although it certainly is elegantly structured. It might improve by cellaring until 2022.
At the age of four-plus years, this Cab still tastes young and fresh, as though it were bottled yesterday. Brims with ripe blackberries, cherries, cocoa and cedar, with a nice cut of acidity and ultrarefined tannins. Not quite ready for prime time, so give it 3–5 years to mellow.
At the age of four years, this Chardonnay is losing its primary fruit character and picking up rich, complex aged notes of glazed cashews, baked pineapple and dried peaches and apricots. It's also very spicy. Really fascinates the palate, offering a different experience each second, and should continue to interest for several more years.
At the age of more than eight years, this 100% Cabernet remains powerful with blackberry, cherry and oak flavors. It's just starting to show bottle complexity, with the tannins softening and the fruit gaining earthy tones. A criticism is the alcohol, which is high and doesn't seem to lose its heat. Drink now.
At the age of more than five years, this 100% Cabernet still tastes fresh with blackberry, cassis and mocha flavors, along with plenty of oak influence. There's a soft lusciousness that makes it drinkable now.
At the age of more than five years, this Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend still is tannic and rich in primary fruit flavors. The black cherry, raspberry, mocha and spice flavors taste fresh. Yet the wine is throwing some sediment, an indication it's rapidly getting ready to enter its next stage of bottle age. Enjoy it now through 2020.
At the age of more than four years, this 100% Cabernet remains an immature clash of fruit, oak and tannins. Everything sticks out, especially the massive blackberry and cassis flavors. The oak is sweet and butterscotchy on the finish. With a superb structure, it seems like an ideal cellar candidate, except for a touch of bitter raisin in the finish. Hard to predict its future. Try in 2015.
At the age of more than seven years, this wine is getting tired. It's drying out and softening, with mellow tannins and raisiny flavors that testify to the heat of the vintage. Drink up.
At the age of nearly five years, this Cab is at a stage where it won't develop further. It' a softly tannic wine, with simple berry-cherry and oak flavors.
At the age of nearly five years, this Cab still is immature. It's comprised of equal parts sweet, smoky oak, ripe black cherries, plums, cassis and rich, intricate tannins. Already throwing sediment, it needs at least another four years for optimal drinking.
At the age of nearly five years, this Syrah is soft, mellow and sweet. It has flavors of raspberry jam, bacon, brown sugar and cinnamon spice. Won't get any better, so drink up.
At the age of nearly seven years, it's ready to drink now. It's soft and mellow, and the fruit is fading, leaving behind the taste of alcohol and raisins.
At the age of nearly six years, this Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend remains deliciously fresh, offering ripe blackberry, cherry, currant, chocolate and oak flavors. It's soft in tannins, which limits ageability, although it's already throwing some sediment. Drink over the next two years.
At the age of seven-plus years, this 100% Cabernet is at the peak of its drinkability. It's dry and medium-bodied, and the blackberry and cherry fruit is drying out and turning leathery, with high alcohol poking through.
At the bottom end of our range, this stalwart is tightly wound and fairly driven. Plum and cassis on the palate offer just the slightest nuance of cured Italian meat. Coffee is dominant on the long, linear finish. Now it's pretty dark and unevolved. Patience will be rewarded.
At the cooler end of the Dry Creek Valley, this vineyard site provides juicy blackberry fruit accented in leather, tobacco and even black tea, giving it a savory edge. Juicy with soft tannins and mellowed oak, it finishes with a brightness of anise and nutmeg.
At the eastern end of Saint-Emilion, this vineyard is close to Castillon. The wine has structure and density, with powerful tannins that are still filling out. Delicious, juicy black plum and damson flavors are going to be full and generous, while remaining fruity. Drink from 2018.
At the equivalent of $4.50 per regular bottle, this Merlot is a pretty good buy. It's a little rough and peppery, but the dryness helps, and so does the hint of cherry-berry fruit.
At the equivalent of $4.75 a bottle, and with the staying power of its vacuum technology, this box wine is a pretty good buy. Bone dry and crisp, it has pleasant citrus fruit, vanilla and peppery spice flavors.
At the equivalent of $5 for a regular bottle of Cabernet, this three-liter box of wine is a real value. It's rich and fruity in blackberry and spice flavors, with robust tannins and a clean, smooth finish.
At the equivalent of about $4.50 a bottle, this Zin in a vacuum-packed box is a good buy. It's dry, full-bodied and very Zinny, with peppery wild berry, tobacco and herb flavors.
At the equivalent of about $6 a bottle, this is a good buy. It's made in the popular Chardonnay style, with pineapple, peach and spice flavors accented by smoky oak.
At the first it was quite muted and subdued, but over a ten minute period it developed beautifully in the glass. The dark fruit is still dominant, but it is beginning to show some interesting tertiary aromas of earth, mushrooms and leather. Well balanced with a medium finish. Needs a few more years, but can be enjoyed now with a good deal of pleasure.
At the hands of Pierre Laplace, Tannat becomes smooth, rounded and shapely. It of course has tannins, but these are at the service of the rich fruit and the balanced acidity. The wine is full of character, a medley of fruit along with an elegant structure. It's going to develop well, so drink from 2018.
At the heart of Chianti Classico, Badia a Passignano is among the most beautiful wine properties in the world with an ancient abbey that crowns softly rolling hills. This wine is packed tightly with bright cherry, spice and tobacco notes, and lingering touches of wild berry and cola.
At the heart of the Chianti Classico region, this estate is responsible for some of the most elegant and traditional expressions of this fabled wine. A bright cherry flavor is framed by oak-driven tones of vanilla spice and mocha.
At the moment the pleasant fruit seems completely overmatched by the heavily charred, smoky barrel flavors. Even after substantial breathing time the fruit failed to fill out, and the finish turned a bit watery and slightly bitter.
At the moment, the 2010 Réservée is intense but moody, showing a smoky, gamy, feral side. The fruit is subdued but concentrated, picking up multiple earthy, spicy nuances including iodine and licorice. It's a big wine, with chewy tannins that leave the impression of fine suede behind on the long finish.Give it another five years in the cellar.
At the moment, the nose on this wine seems tight: It offers only subtle aromas of wild berry and cedar. Medium to full bodied, the palate bears a note of roasted herb, and the energizing acids and sandy tannins keep the wine structured throughout the finish.
At the moment, this Cabernet Franc's nose seems quite shy, offering only subtle notes of spice and dried herb. Medium in body, with a sense of grace, it has gentle flavors that are reminiscent of spiced cocoa and cherry.
At the moment, this is a tight, young wine with fruit that is masked. There is some potential that will give a wine with apple flavors. Wait to drink this until 2017.
At the northern end of the Ladoix appellation, this small Premier Cru has produced a red-fruited wine shot through with acidity and spicy flavors. It is juicy, showing red cherries, raspberries bolstered with a layer of tannins. The wine is ready to drink, although it will age at least until 2023.
At the peak of the Moscato trend sweeping the United States, Ecco Domani offers this fun, sweet white wine (with moderate but soft effervescence) that shows endnotes of golden delicious apple, peach and white flower. Serve it as an appetizer wine.
At the price, a pretty satisfying Malbec that's a little tight at first, with dark stewy notes, but on balance good texture and finish. It shows plum and black cherry flavors integrated throughout and a touch of Yolo earthiness, too.
At the risk of overgeneralizing, Martinborough Sauvignons typically show less overt herbal characters than their Marlborough counterparts. At least, that's the case for this medium-bodied wine. White grapefruit, stone fruit and underripe melon notes finish crisp and clean.
At the south end of Chassagne-Montrachet, Morgeots Premier Cru is close to abbey ruins. This young, toasty wine is ripe, smooth and creamy. Rich apple and green plum flavors are balanced by acidity and touched by honey. The wood aging is still prominent and needs to tone down, so drink from 2018.
At the southern end of Nuits Saint-Georges, this vineyard produces a ripe and full style of wine. This wine has those characters along with the tannins and the acidity of the vintage to produced a juicy wine that will age well. The aftertaste keeps that crunchy, crisp character. Drink it from 2019.
At the start the wine shows leafy aromas and a hint of burned rubber that eventually burns off. The lean palate is evolved, and while you can still detect a note of stewed prune, most of the fruit has dried up. It ends on a bitter, drying note of astringent tannins.
At the start, there are sweet touches of chestnut honey and barbecue spice, followed by notes of candied fruit, cassis and red currant. This hearty offering would pair with glazed ham or pork shoulder with dried plums.
At the start, this smells like dark fruit and toast drizzled with molten beeswax. The flavors mirror the aromas, with a hefty hint of clove that stipples the textured finish.
At the suggested retail of $11, this is a super value.* The cherry fruit is modulated by herbal, balsamic elements that bring complexity, while the texture is supple without turning creamy or overly soft. Drink it over the next few years.    The suggested retail price has been updated post-publication to $15. (added by J.C. 11/04/14)
At the suggested retail price, this constitutes a fine value. It's rich and full in body, but balanced, with “tangerine dream” notes of ripe citrus backed by hints of peach and vanilla. Plush and mouthwatering on the finish, it should drink well through at least 2018.
At the tender young age of three, this is still tight, angular and bold, laden with crunchy black-cherry fruit that's framed by hints of sandalwood and cedar. The fruit tannins are silky smooth, shored up by woody notes on the finish, but expect those to resolve over the next few years. Drink 2015–2020, possibly longer.
At the time of tasting, the nose of this dry white was still quite closed, but its buoyant, almost tropical, expressions of mango, cantaloupe and stone fruit on the palate were already quite irresistible. Penetrating and juicy, it wraps up elegantly with a zesty mineral finish. Drink through 2018 to enjoy its fresh, fruity style.
At the time of tasting, this wine was slightly sparkling, providing a pleasant tingle to the lemon, lime and yeast flavors.
At the top of the Rancho Zabaco hierarchy are the Zinfandels from the company's Chiotti and Stefani vineyards. Unfortunately there will be no Stefani in 2000, but the Chiotti is very good. It's very young, and takes a bit of coaxing to tease out aromas of toast, dried spices and blackberries before flowing smoothly across the palate in a wave of briary fruit. Finishes with firm acidity and a bit of black pepper. Drink now.
At the western edge of the main Port vineyards, this estate is as well placed for fine wine as for Port. This richly structured Touriga Nacional has attractive acidity, perfumed black fruit and robust, tight tannins. With its wood aging, it's made to age. Drink from 2021.
At this early stage in its development, this wine shows more structure than richness. The tannins are fully developed, dark and dense. The complexity is there, but the fruit and the elegance are still to come—and that suggests good aging potential.
At this early stage of the wine's evolution, it shows some slightly pungent, sweaty notes, but they're balanced by ample ripe passion fruit aromas and flavors. It's medium in weight, with an attractively structured mouthfeel, and a bright, lengthy finish that echoes with grapefruit.
At this early stage, the oak is still prominent. Mocha and brown sugar mark the nose, the palate offers dark-roasted coffee bean notes and the finish seems rather dry and astringent. But dig deeper, and a core of cherry fruit comes into focus, fully ripened to silky tannins and just needing time to emerge. Drink 2018–2025.
At this high alcohol, the wine should be bursting the envelope. Yet it still has great elegance, its richness rolling around the mouth. Red- and blackberry-jelly flavors are laced with fine tannins and a young, juicy aftertaste. Only at the end does the alcohol show.
At this point subdued, this wine promises future pleasures with a ripe, rounded but precise character. Right now, it's citrus that shows, with ripe lemon zest and some grapefruit. Underneath riches of red apples, yellow peaches and apricots await. Purity and minerality are a bonus. This is a keeper; drink as of 2018.
At this price with Pinot Noir, you never know what you're going to get. Chime's track record is all over the board. With this 2012 vintage, their California Pinot Noir is average, and fairly priced. It's light and silky, with raspberry sour candy flavors.
At this price you don’t expect much, but it’s actually pretty good juice. Has all the proper ingredients: blackberry and plum fruit, some spice, and a touch of oak. It’s rough, but there’s enough good stuff going on to give it a qualified recommendation in the value category.
At this price, a decent party wine to serve when no one's fussy. It's dry, medium-bodied and fruity, with a pleasant cut of tannins.
At this price, and with a case production of 110,000, lots of Americans will consider themselves lucky to have a solid red wine like this. It's not terribly complicated, but offers easy flavors of cherries and oak.
At this price, and with wide availability, this is a great Cabernet for everyday consumption. It's dry, tannic and rich in black currants and oak, with a brisk edge of acidity to cut through oily beef and cheeses. Production was 43,200 cases.
At this price, buy a bunch and pour it in paper cups at your next big party. You won't get any complaints. Blackberry, chocolate and oak-like flavors are front and center.
At this price, it would be hard for this wine to live up to expectations—which is why we taste blind. But without any preconceptions, this wine was still delicious. The promising oaky aromas of honey drizzled over toast, coconut and vanilla are backed by white peach. It's tightly wound and less giving on the palate.
At this price, you can expect an honest, workmanlike everyday wine, and you get that here—along with other qualities that will surprise you. Not least is the fruit, nicely ripened and finely etched, and the spices that dance on the tongue. It's dry, of course, with fine acidity. What stands out is the depth of flavor.
At this reasonable price, this wine is a great success. It's dry, crisp in acidity and creamy in texture, with pleasant orange, pineapple and apricot flavors. What a nice restaurant wine, and easy to find, with 17,500 cases produced.
At this scale (170,000 cases imported), the quality is remarkable. Leafy notes accent pink grapefruit aromas and flavors, coming together in a harmonious, easy-drinking finish.
At this stage, a wine that is dominated by wood. The weight and the ripe fruit are there as well to suggest potential dark fruits, black plums, damsons and a juicy character. The rich fruit should begin to show well in a year, but the wine needs aging 3–4 years.
At this stage, strong wood-influenced flavors dominate the fruit of this smooth-textured wine. It has the weight to stand up to the wood, so expect this wine to develop into a rich, creamy, lightly spicy wine in 2–3 years.
At this stage, the wine feels lean, austere and minerally, despite the richness of the vintage. But this black-currant-driven wine is likely to age impressively. And with its dense tannins, it shouldn't be touched for at least four years.
At this stage, the wine is all dark structure and very firm. It will need time to develop its full potential as an intensely rich wine. Concentrated and firm, it is powered by tannins as well as sweet red fruits. So age for five years at least.
At this stage, the wine is showing way too much wood aging. It is toasty and spicy with the fruit obscured beneath. It should integrate in a few years, although the wood is always likely to be prominent. Drink from 2017.
At this stage, the wine seems to have too much wood. Hopefully this will dissipate because round yellow fruits are all there, along with fresh, crisp acidity. It is a wine with potential and will be better from 2017.
At this stage, the wine shows its wood aging. But with the rich black-currant flavor, the oak will eventually integrate to make a serious, dark-fruited wine. It's textured, dry and concentrated. This will need aging over five years. Glass stopper.
At this stage, this is a wood-dominated wine. Its potential is considerable because beneath this wood and toast awaits a wonderful range of ripe apples, apricots and mango that promise to develop into a full, generous wine. Keep until 2018.
At this stage, this is very closed, very tight, giving little. But it is possible to discern that this is going to be a beautiful wine. There are flavors of sweet raisins and the fruit has a new world richness, but the structure of dry tannins is always present. It looks as though it has a good, long life.
At this stage, this wine is closed and packed with acidity. But just wait for a few years and the ripe wood and yellow fruits will emerge. It's a full-bodied, rich wine that needs to round out. Drink from 2016.
At this stage, this wine is closed, tight and mineral in character. As befits a great Perrières, it will be a serious, structured wine, textured and full of nervy, steely feeling, softening later into mature spice and toast. Drink from 2016.
At this stage, this wine is dominated by wood. The black fruits underneath will take their time to bring together a wine that will show great perfumes, flavors of mushroom and truffles, and a dense texture. The aftertaste already has some of the right juicy acidity. Drink from 2017.
At this stage, this wine still shows considerable wood flavors. As it develops, its rich pear and peach fruit will come more to the fore along with the crisp edge of acidity and citrus. The texture, with its mineral edge, will allow this single-parcel wine to develop well. Drink from 2018.
At this time, the heavy aromas of smoky wood and charred popcorn kernel subjugate the fruit. The palate feels open knit, almost flat, and it bears a blackberry flavor and more oak influence. A tangy taste of iron adds interest to the finish.
At this young stage, this is an attractively fruity wine that is soft and rounded. The touch of sweetness cuts down on the acidity and emphasizes the yellow fruits and crisp apple-skin texture. It will be much better when aged, so drink from 2017.
At three-plus years, this Chard tastes soft and candied, with pineapple LifeSaver flavors.
At three years old, this wine is showing some interesting developed aromas of almond paste and petrol while the lightweight palate displays some nice butter tones. Pick this one up soon, for it seems to be fading.
At turns grippy and at others buoyant in acidity, this is a balanced expression of the variety, supported by the addition of 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Floral in nature, it exudes both lavender and wild anise, with violets dancing at the rim. Let the wine open in the glass for further exploration.
At two-plus years this Pinot Noir still is an infant. It's a swirl of new toasty oak, ripe cherries and currants, acidity and fresh, chunky tannins. It's a pity that much of it will be opened too young. Should be more harmonious toward the end of 2009, and evolve for many years after.
At two-thirds Grenache and one-third Mourvèdre, this wine comes across full and rich, and a trifle alcoholic. The overall sensation is of a cherry-vanilla sundae smothered in toffee and chocolate—too much of a good thing for some tasters, heaven in a glass to others. —J.C.
At two years of age, this Cabernet is ready to drink now. It's bone dry, full-bodied and tannic, with blackberry, cherry and currant flavors.
AThe L-Block Shiraz is a broody, powerful beast meant for many years of cellaring. Right now, it shows dense black and red fruit, chocolate, black olive and oak spice. The tannins are big and savory but everything appears to be in balance. It should start to reveal its true colors in several years' time. Drink 2019–2037.
AThe nose is appealing in its raisiny fruit, earth, meat and mocha. Things get all together punchier on the palate with vice-like tannins that overwhelm all else.
Atlas Peak's reputation for Syrah can only grow as a result of this wine. It shows the massively dense fruit and firm mountain tannins of the appellation, as well as the ageability of Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon, with which this Syrah could easily be confused. It has the blackberries and cherries and cassis, but that peppery, beef jerky sweetness is perhaps the giveaway. Cellar until at least 2014.
Atrea is 47% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah, 22% Malbec and 6% Syrah. Dark and grippy, the wine offers a juicy palate of raspberry, red currant and even savory cranberry amid a spicy backbone. Structured and restrained, it'll pair expertly with saucy Italian fare.
Attems' fresh Pinot Grigio would wash down nicely with fried fish or onion rings. There's a touch of sweet honey and peach in the mouth and the close is crisp, lean and sharp.
Attractive and balanced, this has light tannins and fresh black currant fruitiness. Everything is in the right place, correct if not more. The aftertaste has a good, food-friendly acidity.
Attractive and complex aromas like dried figs and lemon meringue fade to leaner, crisper flavors suggesting green apple and white peach in this light-bodied, well-balanced wine. It's best to drink after 2018 when it will have opened up to more richness.
Attractive and complex, this blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah starts with black pepper and roast beef aromas, then goes to deep, just-ripe flavors of Bing cherry and pomegranate. It has full body, good structure and texture. Moderate tannins and acidity balance out the richer impressions.
Attractive and correct berry, plum and cocoa aromas open to a plummy palate, with a round mouthfeel. The cocoa and toast finish has easy tannins. Has all the right elements, but in a rather simple expression, wanting intensity.
Attractive and easy-drinking, this smells like pomegranate juice and vanilla, and tastes like raspberry jam but without the sweetness. Soft and soothing on the palate, it finishes with a dash of spicy-sweet oak flavor that lingers.
Attractive and enticing, with aromas of dried red fruit and raspberry dust spiced up with notes of pepper, cocoa and toffee. Although grippy and somewhat sandpapery in the mouth, that firm texture lingers through the endless finish. Still young; try in 2012.
Attractive and finely balanced, this has red cherry and strawberry flavors, which come wrapped in soft tannins and crisp acidity.
Attractive and floral, this is fruity with pear and red apple flavors. It is soft and full in the mouth; its creamy mousse lends just a light tang of lemon zest flavor. The finish is balanced and fruity.
Attractive and fruity on the front end, this has pure berry aromas but not a lot of nuance or complexity. It narrows a bit on the palate, with tight tannins that support the black fruit and coffee flavors. Juicy, bright and solid on the finish.
Attractive and fruity wine with a twist of tannin over the juicy yet bitter cherry fruit. The wine has a sense of structure, firm and showing some wood as well as tannin. Worth aging another year.
Attractive and fruity, it has a lively mousse and refreshing apple flavors. Crisp and bright, it's ready to drink as a delicious apéritif.
Attractive and fruity, this has red fruits at the fore. It is soft, round and balanced, with just the right amount of red currant acidity. Drink now.
Attractive and fruity, this is bright and crisp. It does have some weight and a backdrop of ripe strawberries. But it's the fresh acidity that gives lift and freshness. Drink now.
Attractive and fruity, this warm wine is crisp and fresh at the same time. Yellow fruits and tangy orange zest are complemented by minerality and a refreshing aftertaste. It is ready to drink.
Attractive and fruity, this wine is full of fresh red fruits as well as balanced wood flavors. The tannins are soft, already integrated, and have a warm feel to them. The wine will age, intensifying in fruitiness over the next two years.
Attractive and generously fruity, this offers flavors of apples and peaches and a mouthfilling mousse of bubbles. The texture is slightly soft but appetizing.
Attractive and herbaceous, this has an apple flavor that's laced with a citrus note. Fresh and crisp, it's fruity, forward and can be consumed now.
Attractive and layered with a blueberry and raspberry fruit core accented by notes of sweet spice, orange oil, ashy tobacco and a touch of dark purple florals. The gripping tannins are fine and balanced, with skin-driven fruit flavors dominating the palate and a fudgy chocolate and sweet spice note lingering on the finish.
Attractive and open, this has sweet fruit and a fresh character. With bright acids and hedgerow fruits, it is ready to drink.
Attractive and smoky, this has a light red-currant perfume. The wine is soft, with bright acidity to go with the more serious tannins and dry finish. Drink now, or age for two years.
Attractive and smooth, this is a ripe, broad wine with its soft, juicy red berry fruits and supporting firm tannins. Balanced and fruity, it is ready to drink, finishing with a crisp texture of acidity.
Attractive and very much in the vein of what is really good Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. The bouquet is all about green herbs, cactus pad, passion fruit and citrus. The palate transitions from lemon-lime to tropical pineapple and passion fruit, while the finish is breezy and zesty. It is a lean, 100% Casablanca style of SB, and while it's a step down from the great 2007, the drop is not a big one.
Attractive apple and pear aromas give this wine a fine start in this domaine's first vintage by François Lequin (Lequin-Colin) and Matthieu Ponson. That fruitiness follows through into the wine with its rich pear flavors. The acidity that flows naturally is balanced, hinting at a more textured core. This wine is ready to drink.
Attractive aromas of acacia, hawthorne, orchard fruit and delicate, oak-driven spice mingle in the glass. The elegant palate offers apple, passion fruit and a touch of candied lemon. It's brightened by firm acidity, while a hint of white almond backs up the finish.
Attractive aromas of cigar box, forest floor, plum and berry get this Tempranillo off to a good start. It feels crisp and juicy, with proper acidity cutting into flavors of buttery oak, raspberry and plum. On the finish it remains buttery tasting and turns grabby but also tangy.
Attractive aromas of dark berry, blue flower, sweet baking spice and a whiff of pipe tobacco waft out of the glass. The fresh, tight palate delivers tart cherry, crunchy strawberry, white pepper, clove and chopped herb alongside firm, polished tannins. It still needs to unwind. Drink 2017–2027.
Attractive aromas of floral berry fruits and sandalwood set up a pointy, fresh, clipped palate with raw acidity. Spicy plum and currant flavors finish dry and raw, with hard leftover tannins. Drink this staunch Cabernet from 2019–2025.
Attractive aromas of fresh berry fruits are vital and announce a plump but punchy palate with toasty, blackened flavors of wild berries and lactic oak. A toasty finish stops just short of bitterness, while pouring on the power. Drink through 2022.
Attractive aromas of fresh raspberry and strawberry lead the bouquet of this wine, with secondary accents of mocha and earth. Bright and lively on the palate, with tart red-fruit flavors of currant and rhubarb that carry through to a brisk, mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
Attractive aromas of gardenia, lemon-lime soda and lychee fruit set up a full foamy sugar-enriched palate with an acidic cut. Quick easy flavors of green melon and lychee are lasting on the finish. If you like sparking Moscato, this is your type of wine.
Attractive aromas of mineral and slate are hampered by some musty notes. Nonetheless, the palate is well-structured, with refreshing acidity reinforcing mineral notes. This is an austere, dry style perfect for those who shy away from the fruitier examples.
Attractive aromas of pear and coconut set the stage for clean, fruity pear and apple flavors. This wine is balanced, offering length on the palate and finish, but also defined flavors and freshness. By all indications it's well made, and best of all it tastes as it should. Best Buy.
Attractive aromas of perfumed berry, baking spice, crushed flower and mint waft from the glass. The tight, austere palate offers raw, red berry, thyme, licorice, ground clove, light mineral and oak-driven spice alongside assertive, mouth-puckering tannins that dominate the finish. Drink after 2018.
Attractive aromas of perfumed berry, baking spices, pipe tobacco and a whiff of balsam float out of the glass. The structured palate delivers juicy black cherry, cinnamon, clove, white pepper and herbs alongside assertive but ripe tannins. Drink 2019–2026.
Attractive aromas of pipe tobacco, plum and baking spice lead the nose. The tight, elegant palate delivers wild cherry, blackberry, licorice and a hint of mineral framed in austere fine-grained tannins that lend firm structure and polished texture. Fresh acidity provides balance. Give it time to unwind. Drink 2020–2030.
Attractive aromas of red apple, yellow peach and lemon custard abound on the nose of this Chardonnay. The flavors seem riper on the palate than the nose suggests, with notes of mealy melon and baked apple that remain through the medium-length finish. Drink now.
Attractive aromas of red berry and blue flower lead the nose on this bright wine. On the palate, notes of beet and mint accent a core of wild strawberry and crunchy red cherry. It's savory and easy drinking thanks to fresh acidity and sleek tannins.
Attractive aromas of red berry, rose petal and a light note of cooking spice fill the glass. On the tightly wound palate, dried red cherry, sage and white pepper are offset by austere tannins that lead to a rather short, bracing finish.
Attractive aromas of ripe guava and mango mix masterfully with earthy notes of fresh grass and sweet pea florals in the bouquet. Lime flavors drive the palate, with a great cut to the mouthfeel and a juicy finish. Drink now.
Attractive aromas of ripe, dark-skinned fruit, carob, blue flower and a touch of leather lead the nose on this medium-bodied red. The savory palate doles out juicy blackberry, crushed black cherry, ground pepper and clove alongside sleek, supple tannins. There's no complexity but it's smooth and delicious.
Attractive aromas of rose, plum and blue flower float out of the glass. On the palate, vanilla, espresso and toasted oak overwhelm dried black cherry while astringent tannins leave a mouth-drying finish.
Attractive aromas of rose, wild berry and aromatic herb lead the nose on this elegantly structured red. The bright palate offers crushed raspberry, juicy dark cherry, licorice and clove alongside firm polished tannins. A flinty mineral note energizes the finish. Hold for more complexity. Drink 2019–2026.
Attractive aromas of sweet grass, melon rind and baby's breath lead the nose of this dainty wine, with supporting fruity nuances of white raspberry, cherry and peach. The mouthfeel is light and refreshing, with pleasant acidity and a juicy, mouthwatering finish. Enjoy this quenching rosé now.
Attractive aromas of violets, clove, pepper and plummy fruit give way to leather and spice on the palate. This is medium bodied and firm, with some dusty, metallic notes on the finish. Drink now.
Attractive aromas of violets, perfumed berries and a whiff of sandalwood unfold in the glass. The vibrant palate doles out ripe, juicy black cherry and cranberry, while accents of white pepper, toasted oak and cinnamon add backup. It's well balanced, with firm tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2015–2025.
Attractive aromas that suggest apple, tropical fruit and citrus lift from the glass while the vibrant, elegant palate delivers Bosc pear and mineral. Crisp acidity lifts the silky flavors.
Attractive aromatics and plenty of complexity are the pluses; the minus is a healthy dose of bell pepper. Smoke, herbs, eucalyptus and sour cherry hang on a claret-style frame. —J.C.
Attractive berry aromas are candied and a tiny bit leafy. Tartaric acidity is front and center on the palate, but there's enough tasty yet generic berry flavors along with notes of clove and chocolate to handle forced acidity.
Attractive blackberry aromas with bright tobacco and herb accents open this well-balanced wine. The palate shows strong cassis, earth and herb flavors, and an even mouthfeel. Finishes with dark cherry notes and full, fine tannins. This will age nicely and can use a little time. Quite flavorful and elegant.
Attractive cherry flavors give a ripe, rounded feel that's balanced by the acidity and tannins. Black cherries burst easily from the glass, delivering a full aftertaste.
Attractive creamed apple aromas lead to a vividly fresh wine, packed with bright fruits, with a cool, steely edge. Delicious, crisp wine. Screwcap.
Attractive creamy foam and bubbles set the stage, followed by pungent herbal intensity that definitely sets this Prosecco apart from the rest. Background notes include stone fruit, white flowers and dusty mineral. This is a laidback sparkler with a creamy, less-acidic mouthfeel.
Attractive crisp citrus and pear fruits mark out this creamy wine. It is light, fruity and lightly salty at the end, a great seafood partner. Drink now.
Attractive crisp raspberry fruits, with a creamy texture, but spoilt by a sweet caramel edge.
Attractive deep gold color. Rich, intense aromas showing some evolution. Earthy, savory, honeyed and spicy with floral notes adding lift and a touch of brown sugar. Opulent, rich texture with lots of honeyed tropical and stone fruit flavors with notes of nutmeg and mace. Bright acidity adds freshness and balances the slight sweetness. Fairly full-bodied with a long, lingering spicy finish.
Attractive deep lemon color. Quite pronounced mineral nose with layered aromas of honied stone fruit salad with fusel, balsamic, floral and earthy notes. Taut palate, yet juicy with mouthwatering citrus, peach and apricot flavors. Strong minerality follows through to a long juicy finish.
Attractive fern and pine aromas mix with scents of green melon and cactus to create a very likable, true-to-Casablanca bouquet. The palate is agile and balanced, with lively green apple, pineapple and grapefruit flavors. With some tang and kick to the mouthfeel and finish, this sophisticated white ranks up there in terms of value for money.
Attractive floral aromas and bright cherry and raspberry flavors make a light, refreshing impression. This medium-bodied wine has light tannins and lively acidity in the texture.
Attractive floral scents of crushed rose and pressed violet are joined by perfumed berry and a hint of menthol. The elegant, focused palate delivers wild cherry, raspberry, white pepper, clove and chopped herb alongside a firm network of fine-grained tannins. It's still young and tight but loaded with finesse. Drink 2019–2031.
Attractive floral scents of yellow flowers and Alpine herbs meld with juicy flavors of creamy peach, apple and lemon, all accented by hints of thyme and sage. Aging 25% of the wine in wood lends a touch of complexity to the savory flavors.
Attractive for its rich creaminess, this Chard aims for the popular style and succeeds. It's soft and rich in orange, peach, apricot and mango fruit, with sweet-oak overtones of vanilla and buttered toast.
Attractive fragrance and a pleasureable mouthfeel characterize this medium-weight offering. A 50-50 Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc blend, it offers  pear, lemon, and vanilla-oak flavors on the nose and mouth. The long smooth finish is unexpectedly elegant, something not often found at this price. Best Buy.
Attractive fragrances of mulled berries, cassis and black cherry lead the fruity bouquet of this wine, with added interest from supporting notes of sweet smoke, pepper and licorice root. The mouthfeel is creamy and full, but with ample tannin and acidity to provide structure and lend a gripping texture. Ripe flavors of plum, fig, cassis, black tea and leather flood the palate and linger long on the finish. Drink now–2018.
Attractive fresh fruit, crisp apples and vivid acidity make a great citrus wine, perfect as an apéritif.
Attractive fruits with a good, juicy flavor characterize this easy, fresh wine. Black berry flavors and vivid acidity make it ready to drink now.
Attractive fruity tones of red currant, raspberry and strawberry hull dance in the bouquet of this pretty rosé, graced by garrigue accents of lavender and rosemary. Flavors of red berry skin and peach pit unfold on the medium-weight palate, framed by soft tannins and a delicate spice note that lingers on the close.
Attractive fynbos and fresh grass notes are front and center on the nose of this refreshing white wine. Notes of lime, green plum and gooseberry unfold with more intensity on the palate, while the herbal elements return on the medium-length finish. Medium acidity and a subtle astringency lend a pleasant, clean and dry texture to the mouthfeel. Drink now.
Attractive grapefruit and herb aromas and flavors mark the bouquet and palate of this French sparkler. There’s a touch of anise or licorice in the mouth, and a dry spice note on the foamy finish. The soft feel gives it great appeal, while the solid flavors set it apart from the sweet set.
Attractive hints of celery leaf add complexity to this wine's melon and citrus flavors. It's medium bodied, with a long, mouthwatering finish.
Attractive hints of oak in the aroma and fresh cherry-berry flavors make this medium-bodied wine interesting. A good layer of fine tannins adds welcome traction to the texture.
Attractive hints of struck flint give this medium-bodied wine a fumé-like character that nicely accents ripe melon and fig flavors. It's fleshy on the palate, finishing with mouthwatering acids and plenty of length.
Attractive lemon-flavored citrus character with light acidity. This is a classic, creamy wine with a fresh aftertaste. A drink now wine. Screw cap.
Attractive lemon flavors and some vanilla give this wine a good, lightweight pleasurability. The fruit is fresh, although the edge of candy shop sugar detracts.
Attractive mid-gold color with intense aromas of ripe citrus and stone fruit, strong minerality and hints of spice. Racy with crisp acidity, juicy, rich and smooth texture with lots of concentrated, bright flavors of blood orange, peach, apricot, mango and spice. Strong minerality follows through to a long, precise, juicy finish.
Attractive mid-gold color. Compelling layers of tangy citrus and stone fruit aromas with notes of honey and earthy minerality. Intense flavors of honey, tangy orange citrus, sweet peach and apricot that are both rich and juicy.  Crisp acidity provides a perfect balance for the slight sweetness on the finish. Taut and focused.
Attractive mid-gold color. Fairly muted nose of very ripe stone fruit. Medium-bodied with moderate concentration of juicy citrus and sweet stone fruit flavors. Softish texture, smooth across the palate. Not very complex, but gentle and pleasing flavors. Medium length and fruity, honeyed finish.
Attractive notes of dried red berry and bramble mingle with hints of savory herb and soft peppery spice on the bouquet of this blend. Skin-driven fruit flavors dominate the palate, followed by a clean finish. A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon; Mevushal.
Attractive notes of fall leaves and mushrooms underlie top notes of nail polish remover that blow off with air. The crisp palate has just a bit of grip supporting intense raspberry flavors. Try with lasagna.
Attractive oak and baking-spice aromas enhance the solid, straightforward and ripe fruit flavors in this full-bodied and nicely tannic dry wine.
Attractive oaky aromas of wood smoke, black licorice and cedar float above rich notes of black currant and blackberry, with a bit of bell pepper adding nuance. Sweet spice and smoke flavors prevail on the palate alongside crushed-velvet tannins, ample acidity and a core of dark fruit. The long, spicy finish is plush, with a slightly herbaceous note.
Attractive oaky, well-aged aromas and flavors make this wine mellow and multi-faceted. It leads with cedar and cigar-box aromas, followed by touches of cherry and plum. The body is full, adding to the moderately tannic texture.
Attractive oily, fruity and fresh wine, mineral with green plum flavors touched with lemon. For drinking now to preserve its bright, ripe character.
Attractive on any table thanks to its vintage-automobile label artwork, this bright Chianti Classico shows ripe fruit aromas of cherry liqueur and plum cake backed by soft, savory exotic spice. It's crisp but velvety smooth on the close.
Attractive orange- and pink- colored Champagne, dry and fruity, with intense acidity to go with the lemon and pink grapefruit flavors. The wine feels light, delicate, the aftertaste very crisp.
Attractive perfumed wine, rich, soft, generous and opulent. It has powerful, ripe fruit flavors of black berry and sweet plum that gives great richness.
Attractive red fruits and freshness combine to produce a lively, elegant wine with a light structure and complete fruitiness. Drink from 2017.
Attractive red fruits and soft tannins make this ripe, lightly structured wine easy to drink. There are hints of herbs and red berry fruits, with a touch of dryness on the finish. Drink now.
Attractive red fruits dominate this light and fruity wine. Good acidity and bright flavors are smoothed by wood, while the aftertaste brings back the fruit. Drink now.
Attractive ripe and creamy, this has soft acidity along with apple and pineapple flavors. It is smooth with a fresh character that gives a lift at the end.
Attractive ripe fruits go with lime and toast flavors. The wine is soft and green, with flavors of apricot and intense final acidity. A delicious, ready-to-drink wine.
Attractive roasted, smoky aromas join ripe plum and blackberry flavors in this full-bodied, broadly textured wine. It's a great value and packs plenty of fruitiness into a rather big, moderately tannic frame.
Attractive sage and fresh-cut wood accents stay with this full-bodied, value-priced wine from the aroma to the finish. Generous, jammy fruit flavors fill in the middle. Extra time soaking with the grape skins helped make it delicious and spicy, mouthfilling and smooth.
Attractive scents of baking spices and ripe cherries mark the nose and palate of this medium-bodied wine. It's silky from start to finish, offering enough complex floral and spice notes to make it worthy of repeated sips. Drink now–2020.
Attractive scents of ripe plum, blue flower, eucalyptus and baking spice spill out of the glass. The round, rich palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and a hint of chopped herb. Velvety tannins provided polished support. Drink through 2021.
Attractive scents of whole clove and cinnamon stick add depth to the black fruit core of this wine. Lush, ripe flavors of blackberry, boysenberry and cassis flood the medium-weight palate, with medium tannins and notes of cigar box and licorice that remain through the medium-length finish. Drink now–2017.
Attractive spice and green-fruit aromas lead to this fresh, ripe wine. Touches of wood give a spicy buttery taste that contrasts easily with the flavors. Fruity with a light mineral character, it is ready to drink.
Attractive spice and toast aromas add richness to this wine. They lie over the ripe white-stone-fruit flavors that are freshened by citrus. It is still too young to be fully integrated, so wait until 2017 to drink this wine.
Attractive spicy wine with a lively, lightly spicy character. It is rich without being heavy, showing acidity while also having a smooth texture on the finish.
Attractive structured tannins and red fruits give this wine a good start in life. With the acidity, the dusty structure and the perfumed aftertaste, the wine will develop well. Drink from 2017.
Attractive toast aromas match well with the buttery, ripe fruits. This is a generous wine, although one with a line of acidity and steeliness that gives a strong texture. At the end, lemon crispness and ripe honey go well together. Drink from 2017.
Attractive toasted oak and baking-spice aromas dress up the tasty pear and apple flavors in this deceptively light-bodied yet plush-textured wine.
Attractive white-pepper aromas and powerful dark-fruit flavors combine with firm tannins in this full-bodied wine. It is bold and a bit rustic, and should pair well with a juicy hamburger or rich lasagna.
Attractive white Bordeaux blend, much better than the red from the same estate. It has a delicious ripe fruit character with pineapple, lime and kiwi flavors and final acidity.
Attractive wine, hinting at the elegance of Chambolle, packed with strawberry-fruit flavors and sweet tannins. There is some final firmness, the acidity mingling with a solid structure.
Attractive, best-selling Crémant d'Alsace, with its crisp apple and almond flavors to go with the acidity. It is lively, well-balanced, a great value in sparkling wines.
Attractive, clean and fruity, this has pear and peach flavors; its aromatic intensity comes from the 30% Viognier in the blend. This is smooth, with just a bite of citrusy acidity on the finish. Screwcap.
Attractive, fresh and rich with pretty mineral notes, this Fiano does a fine job of representing southern Italy. The wine is brilliant and streamlined with peach, citrus and yellow flower. Pair it with seafood risotto. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
Attractive, fruity wine, with good tannins as well as stalky black currant fruit flavors. Its ripeness is a sign of the warm vintage.
Attractive, full-force plum and berry aromas with a fruity, rich, concentrated palate of black fruit and plum. Smooth, nothing fancy, and always solid for those looking for a big, full-bodied wine at an affordable price. Luzon is the definition of a go-to producer.
Attractive, just off-dry wine, very fresh, packed with apples, tangy citrus and a lively prickle on the tongue.
Attractive, luscious fruits are balanced by acidity and tannins. There is just a hint of green, and the black currant and mineral texture give a chewy, firm aftertaste.
Attractive, precise notes of grapefruit and white apricot lead onto the medium-bodied palate, which is invigorated by brisk acids. The wine finishes with energy and zesty snap.
Attractive, ripe and fruity, this has a light citrus texture and full-throated acidity. Apples, bright fruit and a ripe mouthfeel give it a ready-to-drink character.
Attractive, ripe and juicy, it has the tannic structure to support the full berry fruits, along with fine acidity. This is for medium-term aging, so drink from 2016.
Attractive, simply fruity Chenin Blanc, this is a wine for drinking now. It is full of nutty flavors and apple acidity, with just a touch of minerality to give the wine some tension.
Attractive, smoky, peppery aromas are followed by rich plum and red cherry flavors in this medium-bodied, lightly tannic wine. It has good balance overall, a hint of sweetness and just enough grip to keep it fresh on the palate.
Attractive, soft raspberry fruit is evident, along with some toast. Flavors have light spice and balanced acidity, finishing with a yeasty character.
Attractive, soft, white-fruit wine, its pear flavors rounded and gentle. This is a perfect apéritif style, easy with light acidity to cut through the ripe fruit.
Attractive, softly fruity wine, with rounded wood flavors, a solid core of tannins and ripe blackberry fruits. A touch of licorice adds some spice.
Attractive, softly fruity wine, with some citrus character as well as pear and apple juice. It is crisp, fresh, ready to drink. Winebow.
Attractive, somewhat unusual floral/violet aromas are in the lead, with blueberry, cassis and pastry sitting behind that. The palate is smooth yet lively, with flavors of wild berry, black currant, cola, chocolate and even bacon from the French oak. Tasty, balanced and interesting; 60% Malbec and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Attractive, spicy oak perfume and plush, concentrated fruit flavors rest on a luxurious and velvety texture in which fine tannins seem to melt into the ripe blackberry and cassis flavors. The wine is full bodied, layered, very broad and mouthfilling, with a long finish.
Attractive, strong oak accents like charcoal and bacon dress up this full-bodied, high-octane wine. The palate is bold and ripe, with dark fruit flavors. The American oak bottling exhibits greater tannic structure than the French oak bottling, and it's interesting to enjoy them side by side.
Attractive, very crisp rosé, its strawberry fruit flavors given a delicious lift with citrus and caramel. It may be a 2006, but it still has all its freshness. Screwcap.
Attractive, wood and yellow fruit laden wine. It's soft, rounded with bright acidity and a spicy character. It's wood probably needs to soften over the next few months.
Attractive, zingy wine, full of lemon zest acidity, crisp green apples and clean, pure fruitiness. It has just a hint of pepper, layering the creamy final taste. Screwcap.
Attractively aromatic, this is a crisp blend of Colombard and Sauvignon Blanc from the same area as many of the Armagnac vineyards. It is fruity with a zesty lemon texture and so light and perfumed. It is ready to drink now.
Attractively balanced wine, its apple and pear acidity giving a very fruity character. There is a burst of lemon zest for extreme freshness with some grassy herbal character right at the end.
Attractively balanced wine, with refreshing acidity cutting through the apple and pear flavors. It has some tangy minerality as well as a really fresh but rich aftertaste. Screwcap.
Attractively colored wine with red berry fruits and an edge of bitter cherries, almonds and perfumed acidity. The wine is structured, spicy, full-bodied in character.
Attractively dry but at the same time rich and buttery, this wine achieves a good balance of fresh acidity and full flavor. The aromas are like caramel and butter, flavors suggest spiced apples and the finish carries them through.
Attractively fresh and herbaceous, this is a bright and fruity wine. It has flavors of red currant and grapefruit, plus a hint of gooseberry. Full and crisp, it's a wine to drink soon.
Attractively fruity, this is a crisp and light wine. With a touch of caramel under the red fruits, it is lively, with balanced acidity at the end. The wine is ready to drink.
Attractively fruity, this is a crisp, citrus and green plum flavored wine. The tight texture gives a fresh character that also has some minerality. Lively and bright at the end.
Attractively fruity, this is a crisp, clean wine. It has a light herbal element over the citrus and apple-skin fruit flavors, giving a touch of greenness to the wine. The wine is light and ready to drink.
Attractively fruity, this wine is soft and full of juicy apple flavors that are given an extra lift by orange zest and lively, upfront acidity. The wine is still young and full of exuberant fruit. Wait until late 2017 for it to broaden out.
Attractively fruity, with plenty of red berry and black cherry flavors. Along with the fruit, the tannins and spice round out the texture, giving a final velvet feel.
Attractively herbaceous, this is a crisp, light and bright wine. Tight green fruits and plenty of acidity give it a juicy character that makes it refreshing. Drink now. This is one of 15 Bordeaux chateaus by Crus and Domaines de France.
Attractively herbaceous, this is full of green fruit and intense citrus, with a tangy texture. Screwcap.
Attractively juicy fruit is fresh and full of black currant flavors. This wine still has firm tannins although they are beginning to fill out with fresh fruitiness and smoky acidity. It should still age, so drink from 2018.
Attractively nutty and fruity, this approachable everyday drinking Port has just the right acidity, ripe almond and red fruits. The wine has a drier tannic element as well as the richer, sweeter raisins and spice. Like any tawny, it's ready to drink.
Attractively onion-skin pink in color, this wine is lightly textured and delicate in flavor. It does have a dry peppery edge that brings out some structure. The wine's crisp fruit is restrained. Drink from late 2017.
Attractively perfumed this ripe wine has hints of the crisp acidity that is also there. It's a fresh wine with the potential of richness. Ripe pink grapefruit and tangy acidity are balanced by the warmer flavors of pear and quince. Drink from late 2015.
Attractively perfumed, this is a fruity, fresh wine that is full of apple and crisp citrus flavors and a soft texture. Its relatively high dosage adds a hint of sweetness.
Attractively perfumed, this is a soft, young and fruity wine. Gentle tannins back up the red fruits and fragrant acidity. Coming from vineyards behind the main slope of the Côtes de Beaune, it is a cool wine, fresh with fruit and ready to drink soon, from 2016.
Attractively perfumed, this rich wine offers some dark tannins as well as forward black-currant fruits. The wood aging is still showing in the burnt toastiness of the wine, although this will diminish, leaving a broad wine packed with fruit. Drink from 2018.
Attractively perfumed, this Verdier family wine comes from Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in their first certified French organic vintage. The wine is a smooth and polished. New wood flavors show strongly, after 16 months in barrel, alongside the ripe tannins and black plum fruits. It has rich potential and a strong presence. Drink from 2017.
Attractively perfumed, this wine is still full of youthful apple and citrus acidity. It carries light flavors of almonds and tangy Seville orange zest, with the crispest aftertaste. Drink now.
Attractively pink in color, this has a touch of caramel as well as ripe strawberry fruit flavors. It has a rich side, but is bright and fruity with lively acidity at the end. It will be great as an apéritif.
Attractively priced, the Sydney Chardonnay from Nine Stones features fresh, citrusy flavors of tangerine and grapefruit, backed by the merest hints of toast and vanilla. It's medium in weight, finishing crisp and with surprising length.
Attractively priced, this Cab—with 5% Petit Verdot—offers meaty bacon and smoky oak character around sizable tannins, black currant, black licorice and a finishing dust of mocha.
Attractively ripe aromas of melon and softly baked apples lead the nose, with a touch of sweet smokiness, almost like cured bacon, following close behind. Medium weight with balanced, lifting acidity and a spice-infused clementine rind finish.
Attractively ripe, this has a dense texture that's full of red fruits and soft tannins. With its richness, it is delicious and ready to drink now.
Attractively ripe, this has fruity red-berry flavors along with acidity and soft tannins. This is ready to drink now.
Attractively ripe, this second wine from Château Léoville las Cases is initially fruity. The structure comes through only slowly to reveal itself.The wine is ripe yet shot through with acidity. Likely to develop quickly.
Attractively spicy as well as fruity, this is a ginger and apricot-flavored wine. Great acidity balances the warm fruitiness. Full in the mouth while also crisp, the wine is ready to drink.
Atypical for the appellation in that it's 80% Syrah, this is a dark-fruited, slightly pruny Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Chocolate and licorice notes add complexity to this full-bodied, firmly structured wine. With its long, chewy finish, consider deferring consumption until at least 2014.
Atypical of a Rutherford Cabernet, this is in fact unlike most of today's expensive Cabernets from anywhere in Napa Valley. It's aggressively tannic and dry, and it seems emulate an older style, though the alcohol is considerably higher than anything from the old days. With a core of blackberries and black currants, it may well develop bottle complexity over the years.
Atypical on the nose, as air freshener, berry jelly and exotic but odd aromas take over. The palate seems superficial and wholly unusual, with floral blueberry flavors and then an angular, floral finish. Not terrible but doesn't seem much like Cabernet.
Atypical, proprietary aromas of blowsy tropical fruits, apple cider, white rose and lettuce are perplexing. The palate, with its depth and balance, suggests high quality, while flavors of lime, sweet lettuce and green herbs finish calm, with complexity and richness.
Atypically gold in color, this also smells atypically ripe, of red apples and strawberries. Flavors are of baked Golden Delicious, complete with a dusting of cinnamon. Low acid makes it plump, and it finishes short.
Atypically plump and creamy in the mouth, with modest pear and pineapple fruit. A slightly funky, old-shoe scent marks the nose, but expect that to dissipate over time or with decanting, while the wine finishes clean and citrusy, giving almost the impression of dryness.
Atypically ripe, weighty and intense for a Finger Lakes wine, with pear and peach notes buttressed by minerally dry extract. The mouthfeel is thick and viscous and the alcohol level a relatively high 13.1%, but it finishes long and elegantly, with tongue-tingling acids.
Atypically round for a Crozes-Hermitage—a result of the vintage—but immediately attractive, with ample weight backing up the smoky, bacony notes and plummy fruit. Finishes long and richly textured, with hints of oak. Drink now–2020.
Aube-based Jean Josselin specializes in Pinot Noir. This bottling has juicy raspberry flavor, bright acidity and a candied fruit aftertaste. Drink now.
Audace is a chewy, ripe and generous expression of Nebbiolo that offers intriguing complexity of aromas and flavorful nuances. You'll recognize tones of blueberry, cherry cola, licorice and wet earth. Polished tannins fuel a sensation of power, length and dryness in the mouth.
Aurelio Settimo offers a ripe and chewy base Barolo with cheerful aromas of almond paste, cherry liqueur and licorice. Those nuances are enhanced by dusty mineral tones and astringent tannins. The wine is powerful, tannic and bold on the close.
Aurielle's Cabernets have been consistent over the years, offering lots of ripe, modern-style blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate and oak flavors in a wine that's drinkable now. This '08 is quite stylish and elegant despite the power, with near-perfect tannins. You could age it, but it's really best enjoyed for flashy, youthful richness.
Auru is a play on the word Ouro, gold, from the Rio Douro, or river of gold. The wine is only made in the best years. It is a complete wine, with its spice and wood character just one element in the mix of sweet fruits, tight tannins and layers of acidity. It could well age over the next 3–4 years.
Aurus defines awesome modern Rioja. The nose is floral and decked out with wild berry aromas, marzipan, vanilla and hard spices. The palate is powerful and tannic, with bold cassis, raspberry, cherry, coffee and chocolate flavors. Beautifully crafted and with a nice red fruit element courtesy of 15% Graciano to go with old vines Tempranillo. Drink from 2012–2021.
Austere and brooding, here is a bigger style Brunello with opulence and loads of charm. The wine is intense and bright with aromas of black fruit, spice, toast, forest floor, cedar and cherry cola. The feeling it imparts is one of succulence, firmness and density. Drink after 2014.
Austere and elegant in its cool-climate, light-bodied way, this wine is dark and brooding nonetheless, offering a wild bramble of berry and rhubarb flavors. Firm in tannin and subtle in oak, it is dotted in black-tea and savory forest-floor edges.
Austere and elegant, this wine opens in the glass to deliver fresh-cut apple, matchstick and graham cracker, balancing fruit-forwardness with complexity. From an estate property with only two acres planted to the variety, the rest to Pinot Noir, it exudes its Middle Reach roots, ripe and fresh, and entirely aged in stainless steel.
Austere and firm, this is still many years from being ready to drink. For now, its potential is apparent in the juicy black fruits, dark tannins and solid structure. It has much of the structure of the vintage, well clothed in fuller fruits.
Austere and minerally, not exactly what you'd expect from a "warm" part of New Zealand. Some green apple and lime aromas lead into a refreshing palate laden with Green Gage plums. It's lean and wiry, a firmly structured wine that finishes long and minerally.
Austere and refined, this elegant sparkler opens with aromas of toasted bread crust, walnut and a hint of oak. Made entirely with Pinot Noir, the linear palate delivers yellow apple, lemon zest and a touch of exotic fruit alongside bright acidity and an elegant perlage.
Austere and reserved with a dark side of exotic spice, anise and mature black fruit, Vigneto Manachiara is a savory, masculine and intense Brunello. In the mouth, the wine tastes dense, concentrated and opulent. This is a real crowd pleaser.
Austere and severe, this single-vineyard wine is very much a product of its limestone terroir. It has a mineral intensity that pushes through the tannins and black currant fruit, giving a powerful, dark character. Firm and structured, this is a wine for the long term.
Austere and slightly bittersweet at the start, this wine evolves into flavors of lemon and lime around large wrappings of oak that give it a woody taste. The finish is lean and brief.
Austere and steely at first, this white settles into crisp, tangy grapefruit and lemon notes, centered around a bright, medium body. The mouthfeel is crisp and clean, uncomplicated, yet well-crafted and composed.
Austere and tannic, this savory Primitivo tastes of black cherry and blackberry, with leather overtones.
Austere aromas of orchard blossoms ride over limestone and peach on the nose of this northern Michigan Riesling. There's breadth on the palate, giving way to ample stone-fruit flavors that are held in line against a backdrop of talc and lime. This is beautifully balanced, elegant and well integrated.
Austere in style yet refreshing and quaffable, this dry wine is crisp with fresh green-apple flavor and a tart lemon-lime acidity that bristles the palate. It's delicate in frame, but nicely concentrated with a lingering mineral finish.
Austere on the nose, and light on the palate, this vineyard-designated expression of this Rhône variety works in its full embrace of succulent pear, peach and tart citrus. Given time in neutral oak, it has enough body to remain meaningful in the glass around dry, focused acidity.
Austere tasting at first, this has a fruity, dusty flavor, with a swath of caramel.This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel tastes warm on the finish.
Austere wine, its tannins pushing forward to give power and structure. It is dense, concentrated, with layer upon layer of bitter coffee and dark fruit flavors, acidity and sweet tannins.
Austere, green aromas are about as much as one can pull from the nose, while the palate is fresh and acidic, but lean. Flavors of lime, citrus and pith are zesty at first but pithy later on. Dull and strained, but not bad for Chardonnay from central Spain.
Austere, tannic and chewy, this Cabernet could use a few years in the cellar. Classic mint and cassis notes are framed by cedar and vanilla, but the fruit comes through on the firm, dusty finish, a sign of positive things to come. Drink 2020–2030.
Austere, tight and sophisticated, this well-extracted Brunello shows dry aromas of crushed granite along with ethereal tones of dried ginger, black licorice and root beer. Inky appearance with chewy richness. The mouthfeel is round, chewy and packed with sweet fruit and spice. Drink after 2015.
Austin Hope's latest releases are all about power and ripeness, and this blend of 35% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre and 30% Syrah achieves balance and elegance amidst that strength. Cuban coffee, fig jam, dried blueberry and chocolate aromas lead into a pillowy-soft palate that's layered with espresso, cocoa, roasted fig and plum jam flavors. Steady acidity and finely chiseled tannins frame it all.
Austin Hope's team puts a lot of love into this widely available bottling that's a steady leader in its price category. Dark in color, it shows clean blackberry, black pepper and dark chocolate aromas. The medium-bodied palate offers dark berry fruit, dried herb and baking spice flavors.
Australia used to make more blends like this, using the acids of Semillon to balance the ripeness of Chardonnay. In this case, they come together to offer toasty, honeyed notes backed by a strong lemony spine. It's crisp and tart on the finish at first, then relaxes rapidly with airing, so drink it over the next year or so.
Australian winemaker John Duval is the winemaker for Long Shadows' signature Syrah. His experience shows in the Oz-like color (almost black), the spicy berry, plum, cherry and currant fruit, and the silky, polished tannins. Interestingly, Duval uses a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, rather than going with Viognier. The wine seems to be holding something back; it's definitely got some years ahead.
Austria's answer to the Traminer, Gelber Musckateller offers the same spiciness with the addition of a streak of acidity. Together, they yield a refreshing, dry wine with liveliness that leaves a bright, fruity aftertaste. Screwcap.
Austria-trained, Santa Barbara County-based winemaker Graham Tatomer is causing a Riesling renaissance, thanks to wines like this with aromas of orange blossom, citrus rinds and hints of gasoline. With flavors of toasted nuts, lemon juice, tangerine pith and chalky grip, this is a great canvas for cellar aging to paint a remarkable wine. Drink 2018–2030.
Austrian Bert Salomon has turned out a wonderful Grenache-based blend. Potent cherry-berry fruit and ample spice (licorice, mocha and pepper) combine in a plump midpalate and linger on the velvety finish.
Austrians seem challenged to produce exotic blends. This wine with Riesling, Furmint and Sauvignon Blanc together, is an intriguing example. It is as rich, powerful and full-bodied. It is opulent in texture, and now mature.
Author Heidi Noble (Menus From An Orchard Table) and her husband Michael Dinn make Joie, and all four releases are beautifully executed. This unusual blend includes Riesling, Gewürz, Pinot Blanc, Kerner and Ehrenfelser, with a splash of unfermented grape juice “in the spirit of Edelzwicker.” It is intensely perfumed, oily and loaded with peach and citrus, with the acidity to offset the sweetness.
Autolytic notes of nuts and earth lend complexity to this striking, citrus-scented sparkling. The blossomy palate is touched with sweetness extended by a rich, foamy mousse that blankets the mouth.
Aux Echanges is one of the smallest Premier Crus in Chambolle on the northern end close to Morey Saint-Denis, an area that gives a firm character to the wine. The structure is all there with some solid tannins although the wine also has superripe red fruits that are delicious and jammy. Full in the mouth, it is still young, so drink from 2019.
Auxerrois makes a rather vegetal sparkling wine, rustic in character and definitely an acquired taste. Somebody who enjoys beets might like this wine.
Auxerrois, a cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc, creates an aromatic, lively, citrus and pear fruit-flavored white wine with a delicious mix of fruit, spice and even a hint of white chocolate. Fresh and more interesting than many Chardonnays, this is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser at any picnic or barbecue.
Auxerrois, a grape variety rarely seen in the United States, shows it's fresh white grapefruit and pear flavors well in this brisk, revitalizing wine. Dry in style, it's a zesty, straightforward wine intended for early consumption.
Available at an attractively low price, this oak-aged Aglianico opens with dark, brooding tones of cassis, dark spice, resin, tar and black licorice. The mouthfeel is firm and tight, making this wine suitable for a fatty meat dish such as a juicy cheeseburger.
Available at an attractively low price, this ruby-colored Valpolicella offers bright cherry notes followed by cola and white almond. The wine imparts a sharp, crisp feel in the mouth.
Available for almost half the price as this estate's Nussbaumer expression of Gewürztraminer (with its bright floral intensity), this base rendition of the same grape opens with candied fruit and honey aromas. The mouthfeel is sticky and chewy.
Available in magnum only, this is an occasional bottling from the winery. A winery spokeperson told me my bottle was entirely 1993 vintage, but not all other bottles are. The wine is extraordinarily fine, but compared to other California bubblies, it's sandpapery and almost harsh at this point. As it warms up in the glass it shows an immense toasted nut and grilled fruit richness with an impossibly long finish. This is one to stash for the long haul.
Available only in magnums, this Chard consists of a single barrel from the estate vineyard, which is in the Petaluma area, a very cool region. The wine is very fine. It's equal parts ripe green pears, Meyer lemons and smoky oak, with a firm, steely underpinning of minerals. Should age well for a Chardonnay, especially in the big bottle.
Average- quality Chardonnay, with ripe tropical fruit and spice flavors, sound acidity and a pleasantly rich coat of smoky, buttery oak. Seems pricey.
Average peach and apple aromas are as good as it gets. The palate is wet, heavy, charmless and cidery, with aggressive apple and citrus flavors. And oak wouldn't likely help it.
Average red juice with sweet, rubbery aromas and flavors that match. It's Malbec in its most simple state: raspberry and cherry distilled into a quaffable liquid. Chilling might help.
Avesso is the hallmark white grape from the south of the Vinho Verde region. This wine is deliciously crisp, with a touch of oak to add spice. It is full of ripe apples, with an aftertaste that brims with acidity.
Avesso, a rare varietal in the Vinho Verde region, has produced a smooth and ripe wine. It has flavors of green olive, pear and a tight citrus character. There's fine depth of flavor on this delicious wine.
Avignonesi takes a traditionalists' approach to most of its wines, including this ruby-colored Rosso di Montepulciano. Slightly muddled aromas of cherry and dried raspberry mingle with tobacco, leather and spice.
Avoids the variety's opulent, often sweet side in favor of a leaner, drier, more elegant style. It has the weight and texture of a Sauvignon Blanc, yet offers rich but subtle tropical fruit, white flower and mineral flavors, with a smack of sweet oak. This is a complex wine, and you don't want to drink it too cold.
Avvoltore offers a soft, supple texture and bright, round fruit. It's a perfect starting point for those who may want to learn more about the many wines of Maremma.
Away from its native vineyard in the north of Portugal, the Alvarinho becomes extra rich and ripe in the hot center. That's the case here with a soft wine that has apple and pear flavors. It is light on the acidity, always fruity and easy to drink with food. Drink now.
Awesome. A superior California Syrah, one of the finest of the vintage. Although it's dry, it's massive in blackberry and blueberry pie filling fruit, with interesting complexities of smoked meats, black pepper, minerals from the earth, cola and sandalwood. Just delicious now, and should hold in the bottle over the next six years.
Awesomely rich and buttery, with new French oak showing up as toast, and the intensely concentrated fruit of the vineyard starring in the form of pineapple and papaya jam. Bright acidity makes the richness shine, while moderate alcohol, officially 14.1% by volume, keeps everything light and transparent. Drink now–2016, before the fruit fades.
Awesomely rich and forward with cherry and raspberry jam, chocolate and spice flavors, this high-alcohol wine fortunately is balanced with adequate acidity, firm tannins and even a hit of minerals. But the overall impression is of soft fruitiness. It's mainly Syrah, with small quantities of Grenache and Mourvèdre.
Awesomely rich and ripe in Meyer lemon tart, orange zest and golden mango flavors, with oak and lees nuances that make it complex and interesting. The wine did not undergo malolactic fermentation, which gives the acidity the bite of a fresh green apple.
Awesomely rich in black cherries, plums, licorice, mocha, cola and sweet oak flavors. Made from selected barrels of the winery's various vineyards around the state, its richness is balanced by brisk acidity and a soft scour of tannins. Drink over the next six years.
Awesomely rich in fruit as well as oak, this wine is almost too much of a good thing. But there's plenty of acidity for balance, and enough minerallity and earthiness to ground the massive cherry, raspberry and strawberry flavors. Delicious now, and should evolve well over the next five years.
Awesomely rich, showing fine acidity and a stony minerality that ground and anchor it, but really notable for the explosive tropical fruit, apricot, pear and buttery oak flavors that are so opulent. The wine went through a complete malolactic fermentation.
Awesomely rich, with massive tropical fruit, pear, vanilla cream and buttered toast flavors, finished with cinnamon spice. Acidity is high and crisp, and a bright scour of minerals brings balance. Made in the modern style, this is a Chardonnay to drink with lobster and scallops.
Awfully bright and forward on the nose, but then tart, sheering and grating on the palate, with acidic raspberry flavors. Scratchy, edgy red wine. Fresh but that's where it ends.
Awfully green and scratchy for a $30 “special edition” Malbec. The nose is brambly and rapidly devolves into outright grassy. The palate is narrow and underdeveloped, with reedy, raspy flavors of plum, raspberry and mint. Far from what you'd hope for from a higher-priced wine; 350 cases produced.
Awfully high in alcohol, but it wears it well, with fat, glyceriney flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, chocolate, anise, red currants and sweet oak. Drink this Port-like wine after dinner, in front of a warming fire on a winter night.
Awkward notes at the beginning blow off quickly to reveal mature notes of plum, raisin and blackberry jam. The wine tastes thick and slightly sweet and has a chewy, dense mouthfeel.
Awkward, opening with vegetal aromas that turn cloyingly sweet in the mouth. It's also a very acidic wine. Not offering much charm now.
Awkward, overripe and too sweet, a textbook wine that falls prey to Zin's traditional pitfalls. There are ripe berry flavors but they are out of balance with everything else. A syrupy, cough-mediciney texture frames it all.
Awkward, showing overripe, Porty flavors and undesirable sweetness. There's a sugary undertow to the blackberry jam, prune and raisin flavors.
Awkward, with sweet, pie-filling cherry and black raspberry flavors that have an edge of raisins, and a sharp finish. Drink now.
Awkward. Even though the oak is described as “slghtly used,” the wine is dominated by smoky caramel and vanilla aromas and flavors. Underneath are flavors of pineapples, pears and peaches.
Axel Stiegelmar confirms his reputation as one of Austria's top red winemakers with this delicious juicy Pinot Noir. It has just the right amount of barnyard character to go with the bright black cherry flavors, layered with soft tannins.
Ayala specializes in dry Champagnes and this is their extreme example. It has the right amount of bottle age to soften the intense acidity and bring in some toastiness and fruit. It can be drunk now, but a few more months in bottle would make it even better.
Aydie's easy drinking wine, showing off the fruity side of Tannat. It has ripe fruits, light acidity and tannins and a hint of spice. This is a great wine for barbecues with its easy quaffing character right at the fore. Drink now. Screwcap.
Azal is a comparatively rare grape to be vinified on its own, so this example is something of a curiosity. It has plenty of acidity and is a refreshing, appley wine suited for summertime drinking, very chilled.
Azal is one of most widely planted vines in Vinho Verde. It gives an attractive wine, with high acidity. This wine is crisp with lemon and with a tangy aftertaste. Drink now.
Azelia's San Rocco Barolo is a stupendous wine with impressive intensity and generous aromas of wild berries, licorice, white truffle, menthol, spice, tar and leather. The tannins are firm and polished and the wine fades slowly leaving a pretty vanilla aftertaste. Hold until 2018. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
B.R. Cohn's more widely made Cab, this wine is sourced from multiple vineyards in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake counties. Exhibiting currant, cranberry and mint on the nose and palate, it's restrained in texture, quite linear, with a quick, robust finish.
Bésoleil gains complexity with each new vintage. Grenache makes up the bulk of the blend, plus 18% Mourvèdre, 11% Cinsault and 6% Syrah. Deliciously spicy with cranberry, raspberry and other red fruit flavors, this tightly wound wine will reward decanting. The minerality and supple tannins suggest that it may be cellared as well.
Bésoleil remains Grenache-dominated, but this new vintage includes 14% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and (for the first time) 9% Cinsault. Bright and penetrating, the brilliant raspberry fruit is the star here, tart and fresh, with the juiciness of a young Zinfandel.
Bürklin-Wolf's standard label Wachenheim-dry Riesling has all the vivacious acidity and citrus flavor of its premier cru counterparts but is also starker and leaner in style. Its sharp, angular feel is elegant and penetrating though, finishing with a nuanced dusting of saffron and crushed minerals. Drink now through 2018.
Babcock's Fathom seriously needs heat to ripen, and 2006 just didn't offer enough warmth. As a result, this Merlot and Petit Verdot blend has a stubbornly green, minty streak. It's very dry, with some good chocolate-  covered cherry candy flavors, but that tartness detracts.
Babcock's Grand Cuvée hasn't changed its style over the years. It remains dense and sappy in youth, showing extracted cherry, raspberry and cassis fruit, with complex notes of bacon, leather and spice. Not particularly subtle now, it should gain elegance in a few years. Best late 2008 through 2012.
Babich's top Sauvignon is a big step up in quality, featuring more weight and intensity than its regular bottling. Tropical--think passion fruit--flavors are accented by grassy notes, with grapefruit notes forming the core. Drink now.
Baby Bear is a collaboration between Eric Dunham and the actor Kyle MacLachlan, styled as a lighter version of their Pursued by Bear Syrah. This is a most enjoyable wine, with a big yum factor from the generous barrel scents and flavors. Toasty, smoky, a bit astringent, but beautifully streamlined, it displays a full array of black fruits, adorned with lots of dusty, toasty barrel highlights.
Baby powder and carnation grace the ummy peach and strawberry fruit tones in this wine. It's a touch sharp through the close, while mealy fruit dominates the palate.
Bacca Bianca from the vineyards of Tenuta di Budonetto, is a blend of Inzolia, Grecanico and Chardonnay. This wine is slightly muddled aromatically, but it does possess a fresh, zesty mouthfeel.
Bacchus and Boushey vineyards provide the majority of the fruit for this wine, which includes a generous amount of Cabernet (8%). Aromas of vanilla, spice and red and blackberries lead to rich, full, palate-coating dark fruit flavors. Smoke and savory notes persist on the finish. It's the density of flavors that most impresses.
Bacco in Toscana is an easy and slightly awkward blend of Sangiovese and 20% Syrah with bright berry notes and background aromas of moist earth and tobacco.
Back in fine form, this shows crisp and fresh apple, white peach and green melon fruit. Aged in 41% new and 25% one-year-old oak, it's not especially toasty, but has the concentration and balance to develop well over the next six to eight years.
Back to previous high standards, this shows excellent concentration, freshness and purity. Crisp apple and pear fruits set up brightly against vivid acids. There's a light touch of buttery caramel running through the finish. Drink now through 2018.
Backed by the winery's well-earned reputation for dry Riesling out of the Napa Valley, this offers pretty aromatics of orange blossom and honeysuckle followed by rich layers of peach, pear and a streak of honey on the finish.
Backsberg's wines have style, and this Chenin is another in a line of successes. An assertive nose of pear, apple, honey and flowers leads a wine offering lovely citrus and floral flavors, cut slightly with a dancing acidity. The wine has dimension but a fresh edge.
Bacon and lavender are prominent on the meaty, slightly muddled nose, which unfolds gracefully if given lots and lots of time. Blackberry and some tannins up front, a fairly nice and buttery middle, and finally cola accents on the grapy, heavy, long finish. For years this was C&T;'s top effort, before Almaviva.
Bacon and tapenade elements merge easily on the nose, followed by a wine that's full bodied and creamy textured on the palate. This is dark and meaty in profile, yet not heavy or cooked, with a long, harmonious finish. Drink now–2030.
Bacon aromas and very dense tannins give this a lean, rather than fruity, character. It does have some density along with a more juicy black-fruit finish, although high amounts of toast also show strongly.
Bacon aromas lead to a wine that is spicy, dry and meaty in character. There is a stalky element at first, yet turns to fresh, ripe fruit balanced by lively acidity. Drink from 2017.
Bacon fat and cream soda meet with a flash of patchouli on the nose of this stunning deal from winemaker/author/blogger Alison Crowe. Cherry cola flavors and luscious red fruits get lifted with smoke and plum-skin bitterness, all set against decent tannins and fresh acidity.
Bacon fat, blackberry jam and black pepper combine for a classic and inviting nose on this bottling from the family-owned winery and winemaker Greg Brewer. The palate is dynamic with tart boysenberries, chipped dark chocolate, crushed peppercorns, a bit of char and beef tar, plus a rich mole-ancho chile element that keeps on giving.
Bacon fat, smoked meat and caramelized onions initially come to mind in this rich, robust red, blended with the tiniest amount of Merlot. Blackberry jam, tar, gunpowder and black pepper characterize the mix of savory with ripe, while the tannin profile remains soft.
Bacon meat and blackberry pie jump from the glass in this full-bodied, ripely concentrated vineyard-designate, a strong and powerful wine. Smoky oak and a thickness of body weight round out the big, bold experience.
Bacon, rubber and berry fruit aromas comprise the bouquet. Feels crisp on the palate, with roasted berry flavors and herb and pepper accents. It feels warm on the finish, with herbal leanings and some roughness.
Baer's Arctos blend is about three fifths Cabernet Sauvignon, and here the grape shows less fat, and more structure than in the previous vintage. It's a better wine, sleek and yet fruity, with a pleasing mix of blackberry and cassis. The tannins are forceful, herbal, and sturdy, giving the finish a firm spine. The grace notes of clove and coffee and loam continue to add interest as the wine lingers through a dense finish.
Baga can be a shock to the palate because of its tannins. But this wine seems to have fruitiness to offset the intense, dry texture. It shows black currant and herb flavors, which come laden with spice on the finish.
Baga has been softened by Merlot to produce a rounded wine, with accents of spice and generous tannins. Berry fruits come strongly through the dry core, giving a rich character to the wine. The finish is full of acidity and ripe red fruits.
Baga, a grape unique to the Bairrada region, has a reputation for producing tough wines when young. This wine, however, shows the potential of aging the variety. Ripe and rich in character, this wine marries powerful blackberry tones with brooding, structured tannins. It could still age further, but the wine is very drinkable now.
Baglio di Serramarrocco opens with a slightly browning hue and savory aromas of cured beef and black currant. There's an earthy tone as well, backed by mild grittiness in the mouth.
Baia al Vento (windy bay) is a mostly Merlot-based wine (with tiny percentages of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) with big, ripe, chewy fruit at its core. The aromas include sweet cherry, jammy blackberry and cured meat.
Bailly is believed to be the home village of Crémant de Bourgogne. With its north Burgundy situation, close to Champagne, it is able to produce cool wines like this. The acidity and the white fruits are lively and bright, with a soft textured and balanced acidity. Drink now.
Bailly Lapierre regards this full-bodied rich Pinot Noir as its signature wine. It has a cool, northern feel to it, but it also has powerful red-berry fruits, a firm structure, a final layer of acidity and a sense this is a wine as well as a Crémant.
Bairrada is well known for its sparkling wines often based around the Baga grape. This example is fruity with crisp apple flavors and just a touch of tannin to give structure. The wine is still young and could age more, although it is ready to drink now.
Baked-apple aromas are not in accordance with an acidic palate that's stalky yet oxidized in flavor. Acidity gives the finish lift, but the balance and flavor profile are subpar.
Baked and broad on the nose, with toasty aromas, marshmallow sweetness and floral hints. The palate is tight, healthy and tastes of savory, meaty fruit including black cherry and wild raspberry. Leather and herbal notes work the finish, and overall this is nice but more basic than complex.
Baked and compact on the nose, which is dark, rubbery and offers hints of smoked meats. The palate has a rich, layered feel and robust flavors of baked black fruits, molasses, caramel and toast. It's warm, full and shows Old World notes of tobacco and toffee. Drink now.
Baked and deep smelling, with prune and lbackberry aromas. In the mouth, it's a powder keg of toast, berry fruit, vanilla, chocolate and other meaty flavors. Voluptuous and long on the finish, with good acicity and tannins. Aged nine months in oak, most of it 2nd use.
Baked and heavy, this has prune, raisin and jammy berry aromas. The weightiness carries onto the palate, which is chewy and smooth. Flavors of blackberry, spice and jammy syrup lead to a finish with a chocolaty tone. Tasted twice, with consistent results.
Baked and raisiny smelling, with kirsch. In a word, it's stewy. Ditto for the mouthfeel, which is chunky and heavy. Features thick black plum, herb and carob flavors and feels beefy on the finish.
Baked and rubbery up front, with asphalt, roasted peanut and black fruit aromas. In the mouth, it's solid and stately, with black plum and raspberry flavors, good balance and a taught, muscular structure. It tastes bright and mildly complex. Drink now through 2014.
Baked and stewy on the nose, this Malbec-led blend is oaky and gives off a hickory scent. Chewy and rugged in feel, this tastes of roasted, herbal berry fruits, burnt meat and campfire creosote. Forced oak on the finish results in a strong sense of clove.
Baked apple and baking spice aromas lead to a lightly creamy palate capped off by a tart, lemony finish. It provides a lot of appeal.
Baked apple and buttercup aromas get it going in a good way, but the palate doesn't really keep the momentum. It's citrusy but low in acid, while the flavors are simple and narrow as they revolve around citrus fruits. Chunky and soft on the finish.
Baked apple and freshly cut apple peel make for an appealing introduction. Honey and lemon notes join in on the palate and give all of that apple fruit a zesty but textured lift. Very fresh, but very satisfying with appealing, lasting length.
Baked apple and pastry flavors, along with a darkening gold color, suggest a wine approaching its twilight. Buttery and soft; drink up.
Baked apple and pear laced in caramel come to mind first, evoked from the aromatics of this wine. A richness of honey beckons, too. Golden in color and creamy in texture, it's balanced by streamlined acidity that keeps it elegant and refined, moving slowly toward a lengthy, drawn-out finish.
Baked apple and pressed white flower aromas take center stage on this structured white. The apple sensation follows through to the palate, along with nectarine, Mediterranean herb and a hint of nut. Bright acidity adds freshness.
Baked apple and spice aromas form a recognizable bouquet, while the palate oozes with grapefruit and tart apple flavors. This is zesty, clean, a little bit lean and fresh. It doesn't offer much in the way of range or complexity, but it's more than serviceable at the price point. Imported by Freixenet USA.
Baked apple aromas and crisp green fruit flavors set up this bright, fruity wine. With its lively character and juicy citrus notes, it could age a few more months. Save it for summer 2018.
Baked apple aromas lead to a palate that has ripe fruit, and caramel over acidity. The wine is perfumed, full, with suggestions of some oxidation.
Baked apple freshness on the nose segues into a tart, spicy but dry palate. There are peppery edges around tart, crisp green and red-apple fruit. This has an immensely refreshing, lip-smacking core of untamed freshness and thus provides lots of excitement. Not for the faint-hearted, more like a few rounds on a racetrack at breakneck speed. Very invigorating and long.
Baked apple with cinnamon and caramel make this immediately seductive. On the palate, faint notes of baked plum lurk teasingly in the background. Very unlike other icewines, but with its spicy, plummy fruitiness, a complete revelation that calls out for spiced chocolate desserts with red fruits. A disarming, astonishing and utterly delicious wine.
Baked apple, pulpy citrus and oak aromas create a soft nose. In the mouth, this feels wide and resiny, and the flavors match that lead: oak, resin, vanilla, tropical fruit and citrus are all registering. On the finish, this is oaky and resiny.
Baked apple, roasted corn, hay stack and buttery aromas define the nose on this full-bodied, fully oaked Chard from western Casablanca. Feels good, with weight as well as vitality. Flavors run toward baked apple, barrel spice and minerality. Finishes oaky, peppery and resiny.
Baked apple, toast, spun sugar and fresh summer corn aromas are appealing and totally New World, while the palate is tropical in flavor and racy in feel. An example of acidity and ripe fruit working together to create a tasty but ripe-styled Chardonnay. Drink now.
Baked aromas of raisin are not uncommon for this winery's reds. This has Amarone-like weight backed by flavors of prune, black pepper and medicinal cherry. Heat is a factor on a grapy finish. This Cabernet-Malbec blend doesn't tread lightly.
Baked aromas of raisin, prune and black cherry are also oaky. This feels and tastes stewed. Flavors of baked berries and marshmallow finish with a note of chocolate and a grabby, heavy feel.
Baked bean, rubber and lacquer are all too apparent on the nose, and while the wine settles in the glass and loses some of that harshness, it never totally disappears. Along the way there's driven cherry and plum fruit and a minty aftertaste. Imported by Vinecrest Co.
Baked berry and cherry aromas are ripe and come with accents of mocha, leather and caramel. This feels full but not heavy, with balance and cushion to the palate. Spiced black-fruit flavors show a tea-like note, while this is dry, spicy and a touch chocolaty on the finish. Drink through 2026.
Baked berry and raisin aromas raise questions about the wine's overall balance, while the plate is sharp and acidic yet tastes of raisin, prune and dried apricots. Rather grabby on the finish. Think slam dancing when approaching this Tempranillo-Garnacha blend.
Baked berry, coffee, molasses and horse hide are the aromas on this tight, rugged Malbec that shows a clipped, choppy mouthfeel in front of lightly herbal berry flavors. This is grabby and firm on the finish, without much cushion. Pour this with grilled meats and it will show best.
Baked berry, savory bacon and coconut aromas give this Cab a modern, sweet outlook. In the mouth, it's more raw and abrasive, with firm tannins and lemony acids. Flavors of baked berry fruits and resiny oak finish chewy and tannic, with a touch of heat.
Baked black-fruit aromas feature a ton of oak and related char and spice. In the mouth, this is pulling, blocky, tannic and wiry. A mixed bag of oak, spice, clove and blackberry flavors finishes like a campfire, with choppy, hard tannins that make for a rock-hard closing mouthfeel.
Baked black-plum aromas meet with star anise on the nose of this bottling. The texture is easy and light on the sip, where somewhat muddled flavors of mulberry and dried earth ride a decent acidity that rises toward the finish.
Baked black cherry and black plum meet with lots of crushed gravel and light fennel on the nose of this bottling that is all about fruit and earth, rather than herb and spice. Tart red plum and sour raspberry show upon the palate's gravelly texture, but darker red fruit awaits in the midpalate along with char and a touch of soy.
Baked black cherry meets with nutmeg, clove and dried ginger on the very inviting nose of this bottling by Adam Lee. A sizzling acidity greets the palate, as do muscular tannins, with flavors of dark-red fruit, allspice and gingerbread falling into place.
Baked black cherry, rare roast beef and light sage aromas show on the dynamic, earthy nose of this bottling by Winemaker Paul Clifton. Garrigue is prominent on the tip of the sip, with strong but not overripe black cherry and plum flavors. These lead into forest floor, juniper, pine needle and mulling spice on the finish.
Baked black fruit, scorched earth, eucalyptus and a toasted note come together on the nose. The palate brings black cherry, with intense licorice and mint supported by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. It ends on a coffee note. Drink 2018–2028.
Baked black plum, dark strawberry and baking spice show on the well-integrated and elegant nose of this bottling by New Zealand-raised winemaker Fintan du Fresne. A chalky mouthfeel carries forth flavors of bright boysenberry fruit, loam and more brown spice, elements that are sure to gather more power with extended bottle age.
Baked black plum, gingerbread, cherry compote and nutmeg show on the rich and lavish nose of this bottling. It's a mouthful once sipped, with cooked blackberries and blueberries heavily spiced by crushed clove, and wrapped in tannins that stand up tall toward the finish.
Baked black plum, gingerbread, dried mint, clove-laden cherry pie and a touch of light licorice show on the nose of this rich style of Pinot from the Santa Ynez-based, family-owned winery. The palate starts with rich black-cherry fruit, but then dives into an intriguing wash of thyme, sagebrush and anise, finishing on dried cranberry and pomegranate.
Baked black plums, nutmeg, gingerbread spice, cinnamon and concentrated hibiscus show on the nose of this impressive countywide blend. The palate centers on forest floor elements of juniper and eucalyptus as well as tart cranberry fruit and a touch of smoke. Would wash down a variety of foods well.
Baked blackberries meet with caramel, vanilla, forest floor and a tart plum skin touch on the nose of this bottling by the Paso Robles-based Tooth & Nail team. It's smooth and soft on the sip, with black currant, elderberry, pepper dust, charcoal and rosemary flavors. It's ripe but with a very dry edge.
Baked blackberries, baking spice and a gingerbread touch make for a lavish nose on this wine that also get an aromatic drizzle of maple syrup. Stewed blackberries show on the sip lifted by lavender and lilac, making for a study of the color purple.
Baked blackberries, nutmeg and star anise aromas make for a dense and full but not overly powerful or rich nose on this bottling. It's fairly thick and soft in body, but with some textural grip, showing flavors of black plum skins, graphite and sandalwood, before finishing on a eucalyptus kick.
Baked blackberries, purple flowers and a touch of leather show on the nose of this hearty bottling. The palate is framed by extremely strong, hard-to-cut tannins, which hold burned flavors of black coffee and charred berries.
Baked blackberry and licorice show on the nose of this Super Tuscan-style blend of 60% Sangiovese and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. It combines Old World and New World elements well, its rocky minerality framing baked blackberry fruit, underpinned by chalky tannins and steady acidity.
Baked blackberry, vanilla, caramel and tar on the nose make for a very inviting entry into this rich Syrah from Bibiana González Rave, whose father-in-law, Gary Pisoni, co-developed this vineyard. A firm structure to the sip gives backbone to the lush flavors of dark berry, purple flowers, smoky campfire, maple and bacon fat.
Baked blackberry, vanilla, dust and chocolate show on the nose of this blend of 69% Petite Sirah, 22% Grenache and 9% Tannat. The palate is ripe with plum, blueberry and black currant and lifted by dried ginger and nutmeg, but the dazzling acidity and tannic firmness is what takes it to the next level.
Baked blueberries, peppery allspice, wet gravel and a touch of vanilla show on this nose of this blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 70% Shiraz, a spelling of Syrah used to reflect the owner's Persian heritage. Those elements are very well integrated on the palate, where a cedar-laced frame presents lots of dark red fruit and crushed spice.
Baked blueberry and boysenberry aromas are more ripe than delicate. This Merlot is saturated and deeply tannic. Flavors of coffee, chocolate and lemon peel precede a toasty finish that overflows with chocolaty oak and lingering tannins. Drink through 2023.
Baked blueberry pie, vanilla and anise notes are quite inviting, albeit more cooked than fresh on the nose. That baked-fruit character paints the palate too, with black plum, black cherry and vanilla-laced fudge, showing prettier lavender touches on the edge.
Baked blueberry, leather, black-plum skins and a molasses touch greet the nose on this blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah. It's big but balanced on the sip, where powerful acidity provides ballast to the ripe fruit. Tangy cranberry and plum-skin flavors are cut by graphite minerality.
Baked boysenberries, purple flowers and baking spice show on the nose of this widely available bottling. The palate is quite minerally, with crushed lava rocks, followed by cooked elderberry, black-cherry pie and a touch of clove.
Baked boysenberries, purple flowers, rose petals, night jasmine and cola combine for an elegant nose on this restrained Zin bottling. Tart and woody blackberries arise on the palate alongside touches of cedar, pine needle, black peppercorn and roasting herbs, proving more savory in style.
Baked bread and brown sugar make this a comforting wine in some sense. Similarly, the fruit follows a baked quality that makes it taste bigger than it is. Meanwhile, herbal leanings betray the wine's low level of alcohol.
Baked bread and compost aromas compete with oak toastiness and ripe dark cherry in this wine, which veers into an almost liqueur-like density.
Baked bread, pine forest and strawberry rise out of the glass in this relatively light yet complex and layered wine, spicy in cinnamon and black tea. It shows the powerful grace of good winemaking, showcasing the appellation's beauty and brawn from a warm, even year.
Baked but not cooked, with leather and blackberry aromas making for an inviting Monastrell. The wine is decidedly plump and smooth, with cola, burnt toast and baked berry flavors. Some oak and savory elements grace the fleshy finish. If you like good but affordable Argentine Malbec, this is in the same vein.
Baked cherry and burned caramel-pie notes meet with brown spices, cranberry, smoked pork and dried anise on the shape-shifting nose of this bottling. The flavors are clean and smoky, with slightly charred cherries, roasted plums, grilled meat and an uplifting sage-eucalytpus finish.
Baked cherry and cranberry fruit kick off the nose of this bottling, followed by then wild thyme and touches of dust and smoke. The palate is light and zesty, with hibiscus and tea flavors along with cranberry fruit and more fresh herbs on the finish.
Baked cherry, cardamom and cola meet a bright, citrusy undertone in this memorable wine. Lively, fresh and seamless in texture, it provides plenty of power, depth and complexity, without ever feeling heavy.
Baked cherry, toasted oak and cooking spice aromas lead the nose. On the palate, licorice, oak-driven spice and roasted coffee beans back up a core of dried red cherry alongside tightly packed tannins.
Baked cinnamon and cherry tart form a promising beginning into this wine, but an intrusive addition of root beer pushes it over the edge in terms of cloying flavor. The wine then becomes somewhat flimsy on the palate.
Baked Cox apples with lemon juice are evoked by the fresh and appetizing nose on this wine. These flavors continue on the dry, juicy and refreshing palate, gathering hints of honey and cinnamon. Lithe and dry but full flavored, it finishes with pure lemon.
Baked earth, pressed rose, coffee, cocoa and plum aromas emerge on this full-bodied red. The round, hearty palate doles out mature black cherry, juicy blackberry, licorice and baking spice alongside velvety tannins. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the close. Drink sooner rather than later to capture freshness and fruit richness.
Baked earthy black-fruit aromas are followed by a blocky palate with jagged tannins and bold acidity. Blackberry, chocolate, coffee and raw-oak flavors finish with black cherry and plum notes as well as some hollowness.
Baked lemon, jasmine and honeyed Pink Lady apples open the nose of this bottling, a special anniversary project for the usually Rhône-only winery. Lighter flavors of lemon zest and crisp apple flesh sit atop a chalky grip, making for a wine that would work well with a variety of lighter foods.
Baked loamy berry aromas come with a reedy rooty note of licorice. This feels good but jammy and a touch flat. Jammy raspberry, plum and currant flavors finish spicy and lightly herbal. Drink now.
Baked mulberry, black cherry and brown spice lead into more nuanced notes of iron, turned earth and carpaccio meatiness on the nose of this blended bottling by Rick Longoria. Dark red-fruit flavors show on the sip, framed by a tannic tension that will steadily reveal more elements in years to come.
Baked mulberry, light clove spice, cola and gingerbread show on the intriguingly distinctive and delicious nose of this bottling from a boutique producer. Spicy red cherries meet with cinnamon, tangy plum skins and an encompassing tannic grip on this expression of a rarely planted grape.
Baked pear and honeysuckle combine around a floral, perfumy vibe, the wine medium in weight, texture and body. A crisp and lemony finish rounds it out, the wine structured and soft.
Baked pear and ripe tropical guava and papaya muddle their way between high-toned aspects of lemon and sheer acidity, which veers into sour territory on the finish. The dueling personalities give this wine a sense of imbalance.
Baked pear and sweet, baked apple make for an inviting opening. The same friendly duet plays on the off-dry palate all the way to the lingering finish. Along the way, there are highlights of zesty lemon and richer hints of honey and melon. It's simple, fun and even a little bit intriguing.
Baked pears, tangerine oil and wet-cement minerality show on the nose of this rich yet balanced wine from one of the region's premiere sites. The palate shows Gala apples, honeysuckle and blood-orange rinds, blending ripeness with grippy tartness.
Baked pineapple and heady creme brûlée scents follow through to the palate of this wine in rich, concentrated waves of flavor. Textured and lush through the midpalate, it finishes with bright, refreshing acidity.
Baked pineapple and mango rise to the fore in this nutty, slightly grassy and herbal wine. It's lightly bodied and creamy in texture.
Baked plum and berry aromas are earthy, savory and a touch cheesy but not overdone. This Cabernet is more heavy and syrupy than lean. Flavors of lemony oak, brown sugar and baked berry fruits finish with fig and chocolate accents. Drink this ripe, full-bodied wine over the next couple of years.
Baked plum and berry aromas are lusty and jammy. In the mouth, this is tannic and the acidity is citric in character. Flavorwise, A Lisa is pumping out brawny berry flavors matched by lemony oak notes, and the finish is expansive, with blanketing tannic grip. This will show best in late 2014, after it's had more time to settle.
Baked plum and berry aromas come in front of a lively palate with earthy berry and baked flavors. It's medicinal and spicy later on, with some grab and a simple, standard structure. 65% Malbec and 35% Merlot.
Baked plum and blackberry aromas are accented by notes of dry herbs and desert rocks. Typically lush and plush, this Monastrell is also a bit soft. Flavors of blackberry, mixed spices, herbs and chocolate are savory and leathery on the finish, where a spot of mint leaf comes into play. Drink through 2022.
Baked plum and stewed black cherry show on the nose of this precise blend of 35.6% Malbec, 28.75% Petit Verdot, 23.75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11.9% Cabernet Franc, with burned caramel, licorice and cherry cordial as well. The palate is rich with a decent tannic structure, showing a ripe blueberry-blackberry-chocolate-syrup flavor.
Baked plum, Asian spice, vanilla and menthol aromas carry the nose. The elegantly structured palate offers fleshy black cherry, licorice, mint and well-integrated French oak alongside fine-grained tannins that lend firm, polished support. A coffee note marks the finish.
Baked plum, baking spice coconut and vanilla aromas lead the nose. The evolved, fleeting palate offers raisin, nut and a hint of clove. Drink now.
Baked plum, baking spice, blue flower and pipe tobacco meld together with earthy aromas of new leather and a whiff of underbrush on this impressive wine. The firmly structured palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry jam, dark chocolate and star anise. Firm velvety tannins envelope the palate. Drink 2019–2029.
Baked plum, blue flower, dark spice, vanilla and dried herb emerge in the glass. The dense, chewy palate offers mature black cherry, raspberry jam, fig and sweet cake spice alongside velvety tannins. It has hit its ideal drinking window so enjoy soon.
Baked plum, brick dust, stewed tomato and leather aromas are rugged but good. Chewy and only moderately tannic, this basic Monastrell delivers raspberry and plum flavors sweetened by hints of brown sugar and molasses. A lasting, chocolaty finish is easygoing, with a shot of acidity for balance.
Baked plum, crushed violet, chewing tobacco and roasted coffee bean aromas lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The structured palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry jam, mocha and licorice alongside firm, polished tannins. Drink 2017–2024.
Baked plum, exotic spice and chocolate aromas almost jump out of the glass. The brawny palate doles out prune, blackberry jam, licorice and tobacco alongside round, velvety tannins. A raisin note backs up the finish.
Baked plum, exotic spice, forest floor, pressed violet and balsamic aromas lead the way. The big juicy palate offers fleshy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, mocha and vanilla while velvety tannins provide both support and finesse. Thanks to the succulent fruit, you won't detect the hefty alcohol. Drink 2018–2026.
Baked plum, forest floor, dark spice and resin are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied wine. The firmly structured palate offers dried cherry, fig, clove, anisette and tobacco while assertive, close-grained tannins give the finish grip.
Baked plum, fragrant blue flower, dried herb, eucalyptus and cake spice aromas unfold on this full-bodied red. The elegant, structured palate offers mature black cherry, licorice, mocha and grilled herb while firm, fine-grained tannins provide the framework. This shows more aging potential than many of the 2011s. Drink 2019–2031.
Baked plum, fragrant blue flower, sweet baking spice, eucalyptus and a balsamic note are just some of the aromas you'll find on this bold, delicious wine. The round, smooth palate delivers layers of ripe wild cherry, raspberry compote, mocha, vanilla, star anise and a hint of raisin alongside velvety, enveloping tannins that give it a silky texture. Despite the big structure, it has an almost weightless feel.
Baked plum, grilled mushroom and a potpourri of spicy aromas emerge on this firmly structured red. The concentrated, full-bodied palate delivers ripe black cherry, tobacco, fig, ground pepper and a licorice note. Firm, ripe tannins provide support.
Baked plum, molasses, balsamic vinegar and cheesy oak aromas feed into a palate that's braced by a bolt of acidity. A compact set of saucy red-berry and plum flavors features tobacco and peppery accents, while the finish is mildly green in flavor, with respectable weight and balance.
Baked plum, purple flower, vanilla, blackcurrant and mocha aromas unfold in the glass. The concentrated, juicy palate offers ripe, black cherry, licorice, coffee and cocoa framed in round, velvety tannins. It's already accessible and will offer fine drinking over the next several years. Drink through 2022.
Baked plum, red cherries, dried sage and a touch of gingerbread show on the nose of this appellation blend. Fresh and fruity red cherry and ripe pomegranate pop on the palate, where wet dirt, black sage and thyme combine for a very complex sip.
Baked plum, ripe berry, baking spice, violet and leather aromas unfold on this concentrated wine. On the delicious palate, velvety tannins support fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and licorice while a tobacco note backs up the finish. It's already tempting but hold for added complexity. Drink 2018–2031.
Baked plum, roasted coffee bean, toast and a whiff of grilled herb lead the nose. The concentrated palate offers dried black cherry, blackberry jam and licorice alongside assertive tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish. The fruit is showing signs of drying out so drink sooner rather than later.
Baked plum, smoked pork, red currant and fresh oregano show on the clean nose of this blend of 53% Grenache, 31% Syrah and 16% Mourvèdre. Baked strawberry, boysenberry and red currant show on the palate at first, but it quickly evolves into dried flowers and extra spicy vanilla, all framed by a tarry tension and biting acidity.
Baked plum, truffle and mocha aromas emerge on this blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Merlot. The warm, chewy palate offers ripe black cherry, coffee, vanilla and anise alongside brooding tannins. Drink through 2018.
Baked plum, underbrush, toast and whiffs of exotic spice come together on this blend of 65% Corvina and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. The full-bodied palate offers ripe black cherry, redcurrant, cocoa and anise alongside firm, fine-grained tannins.
Baked plum, underripe raspberry and cola aromas meet with roasted meats, strong fennel, composting flowers and pencil shavings on the complex nose of this appellation blend. The palate is just as hearty, with thyme, anise, marjoram and Indian spice giving depth to the rounded cranberry base. Bitter orange rind and tangy green-olive touches push it even deeper.
Baked raisiny aromas are dominant and suggest overripeness. A heavy palate is rich but lacks flow and ease. Baked berry and raisin flavors are tasty but by now it's obvious that this lacks finesse and is off balance.
Baked raisiny aromas of spice cake are almost overdone. Like many 2009 RDDs, this is huge, tannic and massive as a whole. A woody flavor profile includes earthy jammy berry fruit, while this is heavy with campfire notes on the finish. This is 80% Tempranillo and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink through 2023.
Baked red-fruit aromas come with tea, orange peel, rubber and creamy milk-chocolate accents. The palate feels complete, with a friendly creaminess that supports the strawberry, plum and vanilla flavors. This is a balanced wine that's fresh and ready to drink.
Baked red apple, soft peach and a touch of whole vanilla bean fill the bouquet, while notes of clementine rind and soft wood develop in the mouth. Round but not fat with medium acid and a solid finish. Drink now.
Baked red cherries and strawberry paste form the pretty components on the nose of this bottling from four vineyards and five clones, but more poignant twists comes from black sage, chipped slate and pepper dust. The cranberry fruit is quite restrained on the palate, which instead shows lots of pepper, bay leaf, rose petal and dried fennel. It offers lots of energy and depth.
Baked red cherry and strawberry scents meet with touches of soy, nori and crushed rock on the nose of this bottling. Lots of peppery spice shows on the palate, though blackberry-pie flavors are sweeter than expected.
Baked red cherry, caramel, black rocks and the slightest hint of dill and mint greet the nose on this blend of 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 12% Petit Verdot and 10% Malbec. Black olive leads the palate, followed by blueberry, and the whole package manages to be both juicy and herbaceous.
Baked red cherry, cinnamon, star anise, dried dill and oregano and a touch of Kalamata olive decorate the fresh, fruity but spicy nose on this bottling. Black pepper and more olive characteristics pop on the palate, with crushed herbs, orange peel, tart cranberry, black peppercorns and North African spice properly representing this cool-climate vineyard.
Baked red cherry, crushed clove, iron and rose petals make for standard aromas on this bottling, although they are fairly light and simple here. There is a sizzle of acitity on the palate, where juicy strawberry and olallieberry flavors are easy to enjoy, made more complex by graphite and cedar touches.
Baked red cherry, rose petal, star anise and cinnamon sauce show on the spice-laced nose of this bottling from Rhône grape specialist Jaffurs. More cherry and deep raspberry flavors pop on the palate, meeting with lilac and violet notes, all polished by more cinnamon spice.
Baked red cherry, vanilla dust and a slight edge of bay leaf show on this well-rounded estate bottling from the pioneering brand. Ripe raspberry and pomegranate meet with sagebrush, anise and more bay leaf on the sip.
Baked red cherry, vanilla pastry, loam, dried mint and forest floor notes all show in this excellent bottling from Bryan Babcock's family vineyard. Its tannic structure is immediately apparent, framing a core of raspberry fruit rounded out with thyme, oregano, black pepper and sea salt flavors. Drink 2021–2029.
Baked red cherry, vanilla, cola and sarsaparilla show on the nose of this very approachable bottling by Adam Lee. There is a light touch of licorice to the sip, with strawberry and red-plum flavors as well as more complex touches of tea leaf and candied raspberry.
Baked red currant and apple notes create a very appetizing nose. Their tart fruitiness mingles beautifully with the shortbread notes on the dry, refreshing palate and makes this almost impossible to put down. The finish is wonderfully clean and refreshing.
Baked red fruit, cherry pie filling and sweet spice dominate the overall character of this wine, with a finish reminiscent of a Christmas fruit cake. Medium weight with vibrant acidity and a clean finish; easy drinking and ready now.
Baked red plum, black cherry, sagebrush, graphite and budding hibiscus aromas show on the rich and minerally nose of this bottling. The palate is very inviting and lavish, with pungent dark red fruits of cherry and black plum enhanced by allspice, ginger and black pepper.
Baked slightly raisiny black-fruit aromas tell you that 2011 was a ripe vintage. In the mouth, this is pushed by fresh acidity and weighty berry fruit. Peppery flavors of black plum, blackberry and spice show outsize oak on the finish. Drink through 2024 with the understanding that as each year passes this will taste less oaky and more integrated.
Baked spiced apple on nose and palate is met with tangerine freshness and an almost quinine-like very slight but alluring bitterness. At the core there are power and heat, creating a counterpoint to the zesty fruity freshness. This is powerful and concentrated, moreish and just off dry.
Baked stone-fruits like yellow plum and apricot mix with fresh apple on the nose. The palate holds the same, stone-fruited but dry generosity. This is concentrated and linear, brightened by lovely, ripe lemon freshness. Very inviting and appetizing. Ready now.
Baked strawberries and cherries meet with vanilla and baking spice on the nose of this bottling. The palate is very approachable and pleasant, with chalky tannins presenting more baked cherry flavor as well as red currant, clove and star anise. The spice is quite penetrating.
Baked strawberries and red cherries pair deliciously with shaved nutmeg, vanilla and black tea leaves on the nose of this bottling. There is a strong black plum tang to the sip, which is decorated lavishly with thyme, bay leaf, rust and gravel—a very elegant expression overall.
Baked strawberries, peppercorns and lavender flowers converge for a dynamic nose on this bottling, which also offers scents of sea-salt caramel and toasted oak. There's lots of vibrancy to the sip, where beef char, oregano, marjoram and thyme give nuance to the full-bodied, black pepper-laced blackberry jam.
Baked strawberry and a bittersweet note of cherry play off the palate around a medium-bodied frame of subtle tannin and oak. Dried cranberry comes in as a secondary detail, before the wine finishes in a blaze of leather and black tea.
Baked strawberry and raspberry aromas carry onto the medium-bodied palate. Fine chalky tannins and bright acids lend the toasted herb flavor structural support.
Baked strawberry pastry aromas meet with star anise, savory herbs and an earthy forest floor funk full of composting underbrush on the dynamic nose of this bottling by pioneer Bryan Babcock. There is lively energy to the sip, carrying flavors of bay leaf, eucalyptus and tobacco against a backbone of black plum fruit.
Baked strawberry, burnt orange and rose petal combine aromatically and on the palate in this moderately flat wine.
Baked strawberry, leather and a touch of caramel show on the nose of this dusty, rustic take on the Italian grape. The flavors are similar to the nose, with lots of turned earth sprinkled over a brighter, acid-driven black-cherry background.
Baked strawberry, stewed peppercorns and incense show on the peppery nose of this wine from veteran vintner Chuck Carlson's personal label. The flavors are darker than expected, with dried blueberry, boysenberry, beef char, cracked black pepper, tobacco and a touch of leather.
Baked vanilla cake, marcona almonds and pressed guava notes make for a balanced though certainly oaken nose from the appellation's pioneering property. The flavors are round and peachy, with a nice arc of smoke and butter that lead to bitter mustard and acidic zing on the finish.
Baked vanilla entirely dominates the nose, underneath lurks a citric, lemony freshness that pervades a rich, vanilla-scented and almost unctuous palate. This is an unusual blend of Pinot Gris and Riesling—perfuming the roundness of the former with the freshness of the latter.
Baked, earthy and leathery, just like all the AN wines. But there's also a smooth intersection of the old and new worlds here; it's one part rooty, oaky and rich but also dry, leathery and indigenous to the Balearics (the base grape is Callet). Finishes a little sweet and warm, and thus it's begging to be drunk now.
Baked, earthy aromas of berry fruits are mature. This feels a bit rubbery and raw, with grabby tannins. Flavors of baked plum and berry fruits are limited in scope, while the finish is mature, sweet tasting and disjointed in feel.
Baked, earthy aromas of raisin, fruitcake, ink and oak require plenty of air to show their best. A jammy, creamy, oaky palate is home to resiny flavors of vanilla, spice and berry fruits. The finish is woody, resiny and pasty, with ripe yet generic flavors in reserve.
Baked, earthy berry and herbal aromas turn murky and suggest animal as this breathes. A wiry, pulling palate with clipped acidity and hard tannins tastes of tart plum, tomato, herbs and grass. While the finish is shaken and stirred, it's not broken. This is Tannat and Syrah.
Baked, earthy, minerally berry fruit aromas suggest lead pencil, roasted plum, cassis and raspberry. The palate is lush, pure and balanced, with classic Priorat flavors of mineral-tinged blackberry and plum. Chunky and smooth on the finish, with broad, soft tannins. There's no bite or harshness at all; drink now through 2014.
Baked, earthy, reedy aromas yield to a narrow, tannic, awkward body. Sweet, green flavors are candied and flat. Time has passed this by.
Baked, leathery aromas of animal hide and sun-drenched berries set up a ripe, slightly out of shape palate with flavors of raspberry, plum and apple skins. A sweet tasting, tutti-frutti finish is short and basic. This reads like a wine from a hot year, which 2012 was.
Baked, raisiny aromas indicate a very ripe wine. This feels full and heavy on the tongue, with dark, toasty flavors that turn bitter, oaky and peppery on the finish.
Baked, roasted and earthy, with a deep palate of plum, berry and spice aromas. We wouldn't label this a complex or complicated wine; what you smell and taste initially is more or less what you get. Spicy and chocolaty on the finish, and satisfying.
Baked, rooty aromas of sandalwood, exotic spices and berry fruits are attractive. Though slightly grabby on the palate, this shows the right structure and build. Flavors of up-front oak, herbal plum and raspberry finish dry, with firm, pinching tannins. Drink through 2021.
Baked, saucy aromas suggest the wine's overall character. It's ripe and stewy, with a grippy palate and a flavor profile full of tomato, herbs and red plum. Tastes herbal and roasted on the finish; aggressive, savory Rioja.
Baked, smoky, earthy aromas are more subtle than overpowering. The palate is juicy and full, while plum, raspberry and cocoa flavors finish tight, with flavors of toasty oak and crisp red fruits. This is a textbook Rioja to drink now.
Baked, spicecake aromas incorporate cola, raisin, herbs and foresty notes. This feels meaty and tannic, with a strong grip. Flavors of blackberry, blueberry, herbs and chocolate finish firm but mild, with richness and structure. Despite being a bit heavy, this is a really good example of Chilean Syrah.
Baked, spicy aromas of berry fruits are a bit damp and herbal. This feels chunky, with mouthfilling, rough tannins. Earthy, baked plum and berry flavors are herbal and a touch salty, while this ends with mature berry flavors and hard tannins.
Baked, spicy berry and dark plum aromas are leathery and a touch hot. Rather dense and soupy, with slightly rough tannins, this tastes of baked berry fruits, while the finish tastes lightly salty and feels rubbery.
Baked, sweet, heavy aromas turn earthy with time. There's a lot of size and weight to the palate, but it stays lively and shows balance. Toast, blackberry, coffee and spice flavors lead to a dry, tannic finish. Flavorful but not what you'd call elegant. Cab Franc, Tannat, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Baking-spice aromas are out front, followed by notes of chocolate, berry fruits and smoke. This feels ripe, tannic and chewy, while flavors of toast and spice accent blackberry fruit. Flavors of oak, mint, coffee and hard spices control a slightly hot finish.
Baking-spice notes of mace and nutmeg meet with sage, incense, oak and sandalwood components across dark red fruit on the nose of this clonal study. It's delicate in mouthfeel, but heavily spiced with oregano and thyme atop cranberry, beet and raspberry fruits that surround graphite.
Baking-spice, dark-chocolate, vanilla and cocoa aromas resonate on this barrel-forward wine. The palate brings luscious dark-fruit and dark-chocolate flavors, with grainy tannins backing it up. It shows some warmth on the finish.
Baking soda, ripe citrus pith, lime blossoms and a soft petrol touch show on the nose of this wine from a vineyard to watch in southern San Luis Obispo County. Tons of sprinkling acidity shows once sipped, with the nervy palate offering orange oil, lemon pith and peel, chamomile, goldenseal root and sunflower-seed flavors.
Baking spice and dried cherry and cranberry aromas lead to lighter-styled fruit flavors with a gentle grip of tannins. It trails on the finish.
Baking spice and smoky wood-grain aromas are classy but dominate fruit scents. This wine feels crisp and snappy, with hard tannins. Spicy, woody flavors match the nose and are backed by chocolate and berry fruit notes, carrying through to the spicy, oaky finish.
Baking spice and toasted wood add warmth to preserved black cherry and plum flavors in this bold, lushly textured Cabernet Franc. The tannins are quite soft, but the dense fruit profile gives it weight and body.
Baking spice and vanilla aromas are at the fore, followed by blue fruit and barrel spices. The barrel influence (71% new French and American) leads on the palate as well, with abundant vanilla flavors that wash over the fruit. There's some good fruit underneath, if you can get to it.
Baking spice wraps around sizzling acidity in this well-made, full-bodied red from the heart of the appellation's Westside Road. Dark fruit is represented within a stemmy, brooding and slightly carbonic texture that's complex and rewarding.
Baking spice, blue flower, exotic spice and a hint of game slowly emerge on this. The approachable palate offers ripe black cherry, fig, cinnamon and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside rounded tannins. Drink through 2019.
Baking spice, dark berry and fragrant blue flower aromas jump out of the glass. The vibrant, easy-drinking palate offers blackberry, black cherry and star anise alongside supple tannins and firm acidity.
Baking spice, dried flower, dark-skinned berry and a whiff of coconut lead the nose on this straightforward Barolo. The firm palate offers dried black cherry, toast and vanilla alongside firm, tightly knit tannins.
Baking spice, freshly hewn wood and dark fruit aromas are followed by pitch-black-fruit flavors. The volatiles are just in check.
Baking spice, leather, menthol, chopped mint and ripe berry aromas come together on this elegantly structured wine. The firm palate shows mature black cherry, raspberry jam, anise, cinnamon and dried sage while assertive, fine-grained tannins provide support. Drink 2020–2032.
Baking spice, perfumed berry and crushed floral scents mingle together on this bright red. The straightforward palate offers black cherry, white pepper and clove accompanied by zesty acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.
Baking spice, vanilla and dark-fruit aromas are followed by dark cherry and coffee flavors that linger on the finish. The barrel influence seems a little intense.
Baking spice, vanilla, dill and cherry aromas lead to a mixture of barrel and fruit flavors, with the oak tannins bringing a sense of astringency.
Baking spice, vanilla, herb, anise and dark cherry aromas are followed by plump cherry and cocoa flavors. The acidity gives the flavors some snap.
Baking spice, vanilla, woodspice and dark fruit aromas are followed by sweet cherry and cranberries flavors supported by firm, lightly gritty tannins. There are lots of good things going on but the tannins need time to settle.
Baking spices and almost-sweetness come out in the aroma and continue in the flavors, making this a full-bodied and enthusiastically fruity wine. The texture is smooth and broad and includes some fine-textured tannins.
Balance and complexity are the hallmarks of this Cab from veteran producer Hanna. It's deep and long in spicy, oaky blackberry and cherry fruit, while the structure is defined by soft tannins and good acids. Delicious now, and should hold for a decade.
Balance and intensity are two of the main characteristics that distinguish this bottling. The central thrust of the wine is carried forward by youthful berry and cherry aromas, with pretty background notes of leather and sweet spice.
Balance is what typifies all the latest Walla Walla Vintners's reds. Here, the grape's natural herbal highlights are linked to well modulated acids and tart rhubarb and berry fruit. Young and full of life and lift, this excellent Sangiovese should continue to improve for up to a decade.
Balance, depth, detail and elegance are the hallmarks here. Pretty raspberry/cherry fruit comes up quickly, framed in proportionate acids and tannins. Streaks of malt powder, caramel and mocha weave through a long, subtle finish. Drink now through 2025.
Balance, elegance and varietal purity mark this wine. It's delicious and zesty, filled with pineapple, pear, green apple, honey and oak, wrapped into a texture of buttercream and with a long, spicy finish. What a great price.
Balanced acidity and fruit give this Lobre wine its immediate attraction. It has a bright character, the fruit and the acidity in harmony. Drink this ripe wine now.
Balanced and brightly fruity, this is laden with acidity and a ripe apple flavor. With its touch of vanilla, this is full and crisply delicious. Ready to drink now.
Balanced and crisply fruity, this refreshing wine has lively acidity and a tangy texture that brings out minerality. Drink now.
Balanced and dry, this Chardonnay has pleasant flavors of green apples and pineapples, with creamy, yeasty complexities achieved through barrel fermentation and lees aging. The price is fair for the quality.
Balanced and dry, this is fruity with just the right amount of wood-aging flavors. It has red fruits, a shot of spirit that still keeps in balance, and tight, dry acidity at the end.
Balanced and elegant, this provides a peak example of the vintage. It's fruit-forward and approachably soft, yet built to age, with plenty of cheekboned structure and finesse. Coffee and dark chocolate fortress around red cassis and berry. Drink now through 2022.
Balanced and fairly light, this is nuanced in apple, pear and quince, with soft tannins and eager acidity that comes off as bright citrus. The texture has some creaminess that isn't overdone and the finish revisits the themes of lemon and lime.
Balanced and food-friendly, this white is stainless-steel fermented and likably crisp. Medium bodied and textured, it shines in a lively bouquet of apple, peach, apricot and Key lime, finishing in a flurry of nutmeg and lemongrass.
Balanced and fresh, mixing berries, fresh herbs, black cherry and dried mushroom components, this medium-long, estate-grown wine is designed for significant short-term improvement. Delicious already, it seems poised to evolve gracefully through 2021.
Balanced and fruity with its hints of red fruits, this is a light wine. The dominance of the two Pinot grapes gives it a slight texture and tannic edge although this is smoothed out by the soft finish from the relatively high dosage. Ready to drink now.
Balanced and fruity, this is a crisp wine that has soft tannins. With its bright black-currant fruit, acidity, and touch of spice, it is ready to drink.
Balanced and fruity, this is a lightly structured wine. It has spice and ripe red-berry fruits in a warm strawberry character. Drink now.
Balanced and fruity, this ripe, sweet wine delivers both botrytis and generous fruit. It has fine acidity to cut through the richness, giving intense sweetness and a dry core. Drink from 2021.
Balanced and graceful, this barrel-fermented gem runs the gamut from apple to pear to peach, all framed with lively acids tasting of citrus and stone. It goes long and deep, with toast and spice beautifully proportioned.
Balanced and harmonious, Marabino's pretty Sicilian Chardonnay delivers stone fruit, jasmine, peach blossom and lingering tones of exotic fruit that give the wine length and persistency. The mouthfeel is lean and fresh and would pair with most seafood-based dishes.
Balanced and rich with apple flavors, this is tightly textured, cut with lemon zest and full of fruit. Although aged for six years, it is still so fresh and crisp, with a bright, lively aftertaste only just hinting at some toast.
Balanced and ripe, this is a rich wine. Its tannins and dark chocolate and wood flavors are deliciously balanced by ripe black fruit. It's concentrated and dense and will age well. Drink from 2021.
Balanced and subtle but with good character, this blend offers flavors of tobacco, leather and clove. Fruit-driven and accessible, it's both elegant and ageable.
Balanced aromas of green herbs and citrus zest are fresh and vital but not aggressive. A lemony twinge of acidity lends snap to the palate, while this tastes of pithy briny tangerine and other citrus fruits. Flavors of salt, lime and grapefruit share the finish. Drink now.
Balanced for dinner-time drinking, this lively and concentrated wine has fresh fruit flavors, moderate tannins and good acidity. Raspberry and blackberry notes blend with hints of smoke and black pepper to keep it interesting on the lingering finish.
Balanced for dinner time, and sophisticated in aromas and flavors, this wine stands apart from the pack. The boysenberry and cedar aromas are tempting, and the vivid cherry and berry flavors are satisfying. Enough tannins and acid are woven in to keep the wine refreshing.
Balanced fresh wine, full of mango, guava and pineapple flavors. It has freshness, brightness, along with a refreshing citrus burst.
Balanced nicely between the citrus pith and buttercream-vanilla side of the grape, the nose of this wine also shows a touch of honeysuckle, gray slate and freshly picked limes. The palate is energetic, albeit still wound-up tight, showing wet cement, lime juice, kiwi and pear flavors, plus a slight brush of butter on the finish.
Balanced sweetness and pure fruity freshness personify this surprisingly elegant bargain buy. The palate bursts of fresh pear, grapefruit and tangerine flavors accented by a glaze of waxy lemon peels. Bristling acidity leads a long, revitalizing finish.
Balanced toward the bold side, it's full-bodied and shows aromas of ripe grapes and sage, accompanied by flavors of cherry and plum. Layers of fine tannin give it grip without bitterness. Tasty cherry and baking spice flavors linger on the finish.
Balanced wine, the tight tannins fitting well into the black currant fruits, the texture coming from plum skins, damsons and some fresh, bright acidity.
Balanced, a wine that shows the right richness, spice, great wafts of fresh plums, peaches, lifted by acidity and rounded by a fine wood element.
Balanced, bright and dense, this powerful offering delivers a bold, masculine mouthfeel with flavors of dark fruit, spice and bitter chocolate. The finish is drying and astringent; drink after 2018.
Balanced, delicious wine, bringing in very fresh fruit, ripe apple flavors, a mineral streak of acidity and finely textured wood. Could keep for another 1–2 years.
Balanced, ready-to-drink wine with attractive, ripe red fruits and good acidity. It is fresh, the tannins giving an enjoyable firmness to an otherwise fruity wine.
Balanced, ripe and structured, this is a fine reflection of the minerality that comes from Douro vineyards. It has firm tannins along with perfumed berry fruit and bright acidity. The wine is ready to drink, although it will be better from 2017.
Balanced, with a lovely floral bouquet, this offers a richness of tropical fruit on the front palate, founded upon soft and subtle vanilla, tropical mango and oak. The medium-bodied style of the wine remains in check with cooler-climate aspects of wet stone and classic minerality, finishing crisp and lingering in ginger snap.
Balancing a ripe lime flavor with a note of rich peach and acidity, this shows the ability to age. Even though it is delicious now, it will age over several years.
Balancing foliage notes of sous bois, eucalyptus and purple florals mingle perfectly with the ripe blackberry and cherry flavors. Full and creamy with medium acidity and fine tannins. A touch of black pepper and roasted espresso graces the long finish.
Balancing fruit and ripe spice, it merits a place at the table rather than just serving as an apéritif. It has peach, lychee and a just off-dry character that allows for acidity. Drink now
Balancing power and grace, this wine delivers alluring aromas and flavors of ripe black cherry, raspberry compote, grilled herb, licorice and tar. Vibrant acidity and firm, velvety tannins provide freshness and structure, while a hint of pipe tobacco closes the lingering finish. Drink 2020–2032.
Balancing sweet wood and mineral-driven citrus character, this is elegant and stylish, showing peach and grapefruit flavors. The wood, so fine, acts as balance and support. Age for 5–6 years.
Baldassari's 2010 is rich in blackberries, currants, mocha and crispy bacon, but the texture is off. Drink up.
Balifico's build and concentration grow on the palate offering aromas of cherry, rum, vanilla, cloves, lead, incense, candle wax and Asian spice along the way. The blend of Sangiovese and Cab delivers complexity, drying tannins and smoky overtones.
Balifico stands apart thanks to its dark, rich appearance and generous aromas. The blend is Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, and together these grapes offer notes of cherry and cassis, plus touches of dried rosemary and toasted spice. In contrast to the boldness of the bouquet, the palate is fine, polished and long-lasting.
Ballentine consistently makes one of the best Chenins in California, and while this 2009 seems rushed to market, it's a good alternative to Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Shows bright, zesty acidity framing citrus, green bean and wildflower flavors, and the finish is totally dry.
Balletto's style is typically earlier picked, drier and more acidic and lower in alcohol than many other Russian River Pinots. The 2007 is quite a good wine along those lines. The great structure houses flavors of currants, Dr. Pepper cola and spice, while the firm tannins give a chewy leathery feel. Should develop through 2013.
Balletto is making some fun, brightly crafted whites, like this floral, waxy one, that are not to be ignored amongst all its other estate offerings. Honey and white flower scents punctuate the nose before light, bright layers of lychee and orange flavors come through on the palate.
Balsam notes of cola, deep spice, forest floor, sage and eucalyptus are long and ethereal. This is polished and bright with fine, firm tannins.
Balsam wood, coconut, tobacco and black-fruit aromas feed into a lush, easygoing palate with smooth tannins and lots of weight. This is ripe in raisin and prune flavors along with savory berry, cumin and baking spice notes. A chunky finish delivers chocolate and tobacco flavors but not much bite or structure. Drink through 2019.
Balsam wood, floral berry and herbal aromas rest in front of a crisp, fresh palate with raw acidity and clampy tannins. Olive, pepper, herbal and foresty fruit flavors announce a medium-weight, snappy finish with no obvious oak. This is very nice but at $125 a bottle it has its limits.
Balsam wood, pencil eraser, coconut, anise and blackberry aromas share the bouquet. It feels linear and a touch scratchy, with roasted berry and toasted flavors that steer toward bacon. It feels a little gritty and short on the finish.
Balsam, lush prune and all sorts of earthy, interesting aromas set this rich, ripe Carmenère off on a wild ride. Chocolate greets you at the front door, with deep plum and berry waiting behind. It's saturated and superripe but it doesn't lose step or steam. Excellent in the ultraripe, modern style.
Balsam, menthol, spice and black and red berry aromas with hints of mint lead the nose on this wine. The palate offers subtle red cherry, prune, tea and tobacco alongside velvety but rather fleeting tannins. It closes on a drying, astringent note.
Balsamic and hard, with a briney, stemmy set of chemical-tinged black fruit aromas. The palate hits with force and noise; it's hard, tannic and unforgiving. The flavors of baked berry are rich, but the finish is grating and blazes with tannic burn.
Balsamic aromas and strong pruney flavors combine for a heavy-handed taste in this full-bodied wine. It seems to be well-aged already, so drink it soon if you like this style.
Balsamic aromas are matched by high-toned blueberry and cherry scents as well as vanilla and brandy. This feels wiry and bouncy, which is normal for acid-driven Graciano. Flavors of oak, toast and wild berry are so juicy and acidic that the finish is tangy.
Balsamic aromas come with notes of stewed plum, raisin, herbs and graphite. This is wiry in feel, with high acidity and just enough jammy weight to maintain proper balance. Herbal plum and berry flavors carry a tomato accent, while the finish stays the course. Drink through 2016.
Balsamic aromas of camphor, toasted oak and oak-driven spice take center stage in this wine. On the tightly wound palate, taut tannins enwrap Marasca cherry, cranberry, white pepper and clove flavors. It's balanced with bright acidity.
Balsamic aromas of menthol and eucalyptus unfold in the glass and mingle with scents of leather, licorice and dark berry. The concentrated palate delivers dried black cherry, crushed raspberry, black pepper and grilled herb alongside velvety tannins. Drink 2015–2022.
Balsamic aromas of menthol, saddle leather, crushed herb and exotic spice mingle together in this Barbaresco. The solid palate shows crushed raspberry, Morello cherry, cinnamon and espresso flavors alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity.
Balsamic aromas, leather, truffle, soil and ripe berry scents take center stage. The chewy, structured palate offers succulent Morello cherry, fleshy raspberry and cake spice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. A star anise note closes the finish. Drink 2018–2025.
Balsamic herb, toast, oak, exotic spice and berry aromas emerge in the glass. The palate is still rather closed and austere showing oak, licorice and tart cherry alongside bracing tannins that leave an astringent finish. Give the tannins a few years to soften than drink before to capture the remaining fruit.
Balsamic notes of camphor and eucalyptus meld with rose, violet and wild berry aromas. The chewy palate has structure, offering ripe raspberry, red cherry, white pepper and a hint of clove. Assertive tannins leave a firm finish. Drink 2020–2018.
Balsamic notes of menthol and crushed mint mingle with dark culinary spice, coffee bean and stewed fruit aromas in this wine. The forward palate shows sweet and sour notes of mature, fleshy black cherry, prune, licorice and clove alongside seasoned tannins. A toasted hazelnut note closes the finish Drink soon to catch the remaining fruit and freshness.
Balsamic notes, leather, menthol and red berry aromas take center stage. On the firm palate, tightly wound tannins frame black cherry and a hint of anise. Give this another year or two to unfold then drink up.
Balsamic notes, leather, tilled soil, ripe berry and menthol aromas lead the nose along with a whiff of blue flower. The smooth palate shows fleshy black cherry, white pepper, grilled herb and baking spice framed in supple tannins. Open an hour in advance to let this breathe. Already approachable, it will also age well for several years or more.
Balsamic notes, rose water, stewed prune, porcini and sweet oak-driven spices lead the nose. The accessible palate has immediate appeal, offering black cherry extract, cranberry, cinnamon, vanilla and a hint of espresso while close-grained tannins give the finish grip.
Balsamic, dark-berry aromas come with notes of crushed minerals, coconut, resiny oak and chocolate. In the mouth, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot is tight, focused and elegant. Spicy, cedary flavors of tobacco and baked black fruits finish long, with lasting touches of tobacco and fig. Drink through 2020.
Banana and lacquer aromas blend with pickled white fruit scents and brine. It's by no means a fresh and inviting Chardonnay; instead, it's a bit mustardy and briney, and not terribly fresh in feel. Is that sauerkraut on the finish?
Banana and ripe red-berry flavors are attractive and bright. It has a slight raw edge due to its youthfulness, but it would make for a juicy apéritif if lightly chilled.
Banana and ripe red-berry notes create the attractive open of this bright wine. It comes with a raw edge, but if slightly chilled it would make for a fine apéritif.
Banana aromas don't intrude too strongly into the fruity palate of this wine that has a crisp character. Tart red-berry fruits and and bright acidity give the wine a fresh, totally fruity appeal with only a hint of tannin. Drink now.
Banana blends with cut grass for a tropical-meets-traditional take. On the palate, the wine is very soft, reminiscent of pineapple-flavored whipped cream, and there is a nice touch of smoke as well.
Banana custard and charred marshmallow scents show on the nose of this bottling. The palate is similar, with charred brioche and cream pie flavors.
Banana flavors spoil this otherwise attractive and fruity wine. A dry core of tannins is surrounded by creamed banana and red fruits. Drink now.
Banana, clove and orange peel open for this sweet, slightly dilute white. Short finish of spring flowers.
Banana, exotic fruit, mango and vanilla make up the aromatic profile of this beautifully luminous Ribolla Gialla. The wine delivers excellent grace, harmony and wonderful vibrancy in the mouth, with pure peach and apricot flavors on the long finish.
Banana, honeydew melon and honeysuckle aromas lead the way while the generous palate doles out pineapple and white peach flavors. A candied nectarine note backs up the fruity flavors, alongside tangy acidity.
Banana, honeydew melon and honeysuckle aromas lead the way while the generous palate doles out pineapple and white peach. A candied nectarine note backs up the fruity flavors, alongside tangy acidity.
Banana, lemon-lime and even some lychee give this a fruity, slightly sweet bouquet. The mouth is solid, while flavors of lemon, melon and lychee are driving but candied. Not too oaky, but plenty honeyed and melony. Good if you're not seeking a serious, Burgundy-styled wine.
Banana, lemon curd and sawdust are the prime aromas on this oaky, creamy, candied style of Chard from Navarra. The palate is soft and modern, with decent core acidity propping up papaya, melon and green banana flavors. Resiny on the finish, but smooth.
Banana, papaya and mango color a dense, thick wine with background notes of lavender honey, molasses and sticky peach syrup. The wine also has a chalky or ash-like note that adds dimension and complexity. It offers a unique and cheerful experience overall.
Banana, pear and loads of pineapple characterize this fruity Greco that would pair well with most Mediterranean foods. The wine has a light, clean feel and ends with fresh citrus notes. It doesn't have deep dimension, but it is easy-drinking and refreshing. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
Banana, powdered white candies and creamy coconut make an appearance on the nose of this Sauvignon Blanc that sees time in neutral oak. Dull tropical-fruit flavors mark the palate, with watery papaya in the lead. Mild acidity works hard to enliven the slightly lazy finish.
Band-Aid and baked red-fruit aromas set up a plump palate with creaminess. Candied smoky-berry flavors finish oaky and toasty, with enough true PN character to make this worthwhile.
Bandarossa delivers prickly fizz and direct aromas of stone fruit, pear and Golden Delicious apple. It has character and grit that builds in intensity thanks to the wine's lively effervescence and sweet fruity tones.
Bandarossa is a flagship sparkler and among the best Prosecco Superiori because of its steady and smooth delivery on the palate. There are delicate floral and stone fruit nuances, followed by crisp tones of citrus and grapefruit.
Bandarossa Prosecco consistently delivers excellent quality year after year. This luminous sparkling wine offers delicate nuances of dried basil, stone fruit, peat and passion fruit.
Banditone is a chewy and ripe Syrah from Tuscany with plump aromas of blueberry and black fruit followed by dark chocolate and spice. The tannins are smooth and extra soft as well.
Banfi's informal Chianti opens with sweet fruit and spice followed by sour cherry and bramble. Pair this no-fuss Italian red with lasagna or ravioli with cheese.
Banfi presents an easy, no-fuss Chianti Classico that showcases Sangiovese typicity and personality. This is a profoundly food-friendly wine with built-in natural acidity that pairs it with butter or cream-based pasta dishes.
Bang! One sniff of this wine and you are floating in those distinct, semisharp aromas that are Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. There's sea air, nettle and citrus galore, and then flavors of gooseberry, green fruit and grapefruit. It's fresh and forward, with angularity and strong varietal character.
Banrock Station's 2006 Shiraz is a throwback to the kind of super value Australian wines used to provide with more regularity. For $5, consumers get a decently textured, supple wine with plenty of forward blueberry and plum fruit and touches of chocolate and pepper. Look for it by the glass or buy it by the case for entertaining on a budget.
Bantam Bubbly is a delightfully fun, fizzy blend of often-ignored hybrid grapes (Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Cayuga White). Just a touch sweet, as if glazed with honey and sugar cookie crumbles, it offers loads of sweet-tart lemon and lime flavors. Delicate effervescence and refreshing acidity make it irresistibly gulpable.
Banyan specializes in Alsatian whites at affordable prices, and they should be on your radar. This '08 Gewurz is very rich in citrus, honeysuckle, candied ginger, vanilla and Asian spice flavors that are slightly sweet and almost off-dry. Fortunately, crisp acidity provides balance.
Barbaresco Ad Altiora is characterized by plumpness and ripeness of fruit. That rich, natural succulence is backed by firm tannins and drying sensations of exotic spice, licorice and tobacco leaf. The balance between those two extremes is what sets this bold red wine apart.
Barbaresco Bernardot is a gorgeous wine with full intensity and brightness colored by soft aromas of black cherry, chocolate and softly roasted hazelnut. Let this wine age five more years at a minimum so that those tannins unwind and soften.
Barbaresco NonnOrlando delivers clean and subtle aromatic characteristics that recall blueberry, pressed violets, plum and root beer. The wine's dark garnet appearance is backed by pulpy concentration and a tight, astringent finish. Drink after 2017.
Barbaresco Santo Stefano is a linear and silky expression of Nebbiolo, with pretty aromas of dried raspberry and smoke. It shows elegance and a bright, lively finish.
Barbaresco Teorema opens with a distinctive bouquet of dried medicinal herb, cola, fennel or celery stick. There are subtle tones of red berry and currant and the mouthfeel shows a compact style and medium intensity. It's a bright, correct wine, but a measured one.
Barbazzale is a 50-50 blend of Inzolia and Viognier. A touch of burnt matchstick blows off after a few minutes in the glass. Once the wine opens, it offers a full and generous mouthfeel and stone fruit flavors.
Barbazzale, from a winery located on the charred, mineral-rich slopes of Mount Etna, is a beautifully pristine expression of Inzolia with distinct aromas of stone fruit, white stone and dried chamomile flower.
Barbecue and lusty stews are what this wine wants. It's dryish to sweet in raisin, blackberry jam, chocolate, beef jerky and spice flavors, and the tannins are big and tough.
Barbecue is your best bet with this rustic Zin. It's lusty in jammy blackberry, mulberry and vanilla spice flavors that finish with a definite sugariness.
Barbecue seems like the natural partner for this soft, tannic, fruity wine. It's enormous in fruit flavor, with tiers of blackberry and cherry jam, brown sugar, smoked meat, pepper and cedar lasting long on the finish. Gains extra points for the beauty of its balance. Will last for many years, but drink soon for freshness.
Barbecue smoke is prevalent both on the nose and palate, a characteristic that lays atop supple tannins and oak. This wine has a powerful bite of bitterness on the lean, herbal finish.
Barbecue spice, clove, nutmeg and dark berry fruit open the nose of this dark, garnet-colored wine. It has soft tannins, with loads of intensity and richness on the finish.
Barbecue, black olives, Indian spice and mature fruit open the nose of this rich Ripasso made with a traditional blend of Valpolicella red grapes. There's a touch of green curry and forest floor, but the wine ultimately closes on a plush sweet note.
Barbera can be made well, but this one isn't even particularly Barbera-esque. It's soft, acidic and sweetly simple, with jammy flavors that are overripe and pruny.
Barbera d'Alba delivers a fresh, slightly raw note of raspberry or wild berry surrounded by light shadings of spice and smoke. This is a balanced wine with bright fruit tones and fresh acidity that showcases a clean, traditional style.
Barbera d'Asti L'Avvocata opens with tart aromas of small berry and white cherry with a touch of pungent smoke or burnt toast. Light in color and consistency, the wine closes with a crisp, sharp finish.
Barbera grapes from a Lake Chelan vineyard are blended with 25% Sangiovese from the Yakima Valley. It's an interesting wine, with pretty strawberry fruit, tart acidity and a wall of tannin that cuts it short. The components are starkly apparent, but with time may ultimately blend into a more seamless expression of what seems to be good fruit.
Barbera is among the most food-friendly wines from one of the most unabashedly food-friendly countries on earth. This expression is elaborate and bright with plump fullness wrapped around a crisp, refreshing close.
Barbera makes up just over half of this wine, with the rest Primitivo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo and Dolcetto. Aromas of vanilla, wood spice and red cherry are followed by a tart lick of cherry and cranberry flavors.
Barbera topping 16% abv is a bit surprising, but despite this, the wine does not deliver much fruit power. It's chalky, hot and tannic, with the alcohol overpowering the simple red fruit.
Barbera Vigneto Much showcases sweet aromas of vanilla, cinnamon and cedar wood behind loads of black fruit and wild berries. The wine is lean and compact on the close with a very cleansing, fresh finish.
Barbera, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo comprise the wine. Half of the grapes were air dried for three months, which is known as appassimento. The Sangiovese was crushed and fermented conventionally before being added to the blend. The result is a dry, slightly nutty red wine, with tart flavors that are suggestive of fruit leather. It shows good grip and length, and it comes with just a bit of alcoholic heat.
Barbera, Sangiovese, Grenache and Graziano are in the blend. The Sangiovese was crushed and fermented conventionally, then blended with grapes that had been air-dried. Results are mixed at the moment; the wine carries a whiff of burnt rubber that shortens the finish. Some pretty strawberry and cherry fruit peeks through, but that tarry finish needs further bottle age to open it up a bit.
Barda is a particular wine with proprietary aromas of light cranberry, pickle brine, dried leaf and especially tomato. A light palate with mild yet rubbery tannins sets up fresh, earthy, briny flavors that end smooth, with salty, herbal aftershocks.
Bardolino Chiaretto is an elegant and delicate wine with pretty highlights of rose, raspberry and sweet cassis berry. The wine shows a soft, yielding nature in the mouth with a touch of crisp acidity on the close.
Bardolino is an easy-to-drink red from northern Italy that pairs well with pizza and simple pasta dishes. This example offers medium intensity of red fruit aromas and has a light, watery feel in the mouth.
Barely-there whiffs of mango, guava and orange blossom lend a breathless delicacy to this light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc. It's not deeply concentrated or persistent, but invigorating and quaffable. The finish is brisk and palate cleansing.
Barely drinkable, although you'll get by at big parties where nobody cares. It's silky, sweet and minty.
Barely drinkable, with sweet, sugary flavors and a few drops of citrus fruit.
Barely noticeable aromas of wet rocks and sour red-fruit skins try to show on the nose of this wine. The palate is characterized by iron, wet rocks and dust flavors, without much fruit.
Barely noticeable lime and orange aromas sit mute on the nose, which is reduced and artificial smelling. The palate has a hard feel and generic flavors of white fruits. Amid sweetness there's a chemical bitterness. Not one of this winery's better products.
Barely off dry, this wine is rich and very perfumed, hinting at an attractive light oxidation from the wood aging. Almonds, white fruits and a fine, tight texture round it out. It will age, so drink from 2014.
Barely ripe tropical fruit notes are paired with scents of fresh orange supremes, red apple, beeswax and a hint of honeydew in the nose and mouth. Lively and lifed with a hint of woody spice that lingers on the finish.
Barely ripe, with a pungent, ammonia edge to the citrus fruits. It's very dry and crisp in acidity.
Barely ripe, with green citrus and feline spray aromas and flavors. On the plus side is extreme dryness and crisp acidity. You'll either love or hate this wine.
Barely there but intriguing notes of pears draw you in first. The soft body promises refreshment and rounded pleasure, with just enough phenolic texture and a hint of salty minerality.
Barely there whiffs of honey, cantaloupe and tangerine intensify on the palate of this bright, fruity wine. It's lip-smackingly plump in yellow plum and cherry flavors, but tows a precise line of acidity that's refreshing. Drink now through 2020.
Bargain hunters need not apply, but if you're looking for a pricey but serious Argentine red, the '06 Magdalena Toso is a fine place to begin. At 70% Malbec and 30% Cab, it's stout, dark and rich. Aromas of coconut and mint announce new French oak, while the density and purity of the blackberry and plum fruit is commendable. Finishes long and ripe, with spice, prune and leather. Good acidity ensures that it will age well for three to five years.
Bargain hunters should like this mildly medicinal Cab because it's got raspberry and black fruit character and only minor faults, i.e. slight medicinality. Otherwise it's fruity, steady and respectable, with good body and mouthfeel.
Barley sugar and orange peel vie for attention, but both play to the tune set by the fine, distinct lemony acidity, which also provides linearity. Hints of lemon oil and honey complete the picture.
Barley sugar, butterscotch, demerara sugar and the faintest hint of maple syrup suggest the richness of this SGN right away. The concentrated sweetness is countered with illuminating freshness and holds tons of tangy spice. Wow. This is incredibly concentrated and has an elixir-like bundled energy that seems to be alive. The effect is both mesmerizing and invigorating.
Barnard Griffin's über-reserve, this extremely limited offering is a Bordeaux-style blend, produced from old vines at one of Washington's founding vineyards. A spicy, peppered candy note in the nose precedes juicy pomegranate fruit, toasted walnuts, mocha and more.
Barnett is better known as a producer of very good Cabernet. But their Chardonnays can be great, and so can  their Pinot Noirs. This single-vineyard bottling has the elegance of the best Anderson Valley Pinots, a dry, crisp wine of great complexity. The flavors of cherries, licorice, Dr. Pepper, sweet Chinese tea and bacon are delicious and compelling.
Barnstormer is a newcomer to the Finger Lakes wine scene but this Port-style fortified wine made from Blaufränkisch is a delightful sign of good things to come. Perfect black currant and cherry flavors are fresh and pristine but deeply concentrated, filling the mouth in rich, supple waves. It's boldly structured yet balanced, finishing with a hint of granite minerality.
Barnyard and gamy aromas are out in front on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), Merlot (25%) and Cabernet Franc. The cherry flavors are reserved in style with a lightly chalky feel.
Barnyard aromas atop berry scents make for a nose that's not entirely clean. A clipped, tough palate has hard tannins and short berry flavors. A finish with heat and bitterness makes this a tough go.
Barnyard aromas offer a wine that is spicy and ripe, with the somewhat hard tannins lending a rustic feel. There is some juicy red fruit that blends with the acidity.
Barnyard aromas with coffee grinds and lemony blackberry are less than inviting. This feels raw, scratchy and abrasive; flavors of herbal cherry and plum turn green and weedy on the finish.
Barolo Arborina is slightly raw and sharp at first but the quality of the fruit is evident and, in general, this wine needs more time to evolve in the bottle. At this young stage, you'll taste white cherry, Spanish cedar, graphite tones, tobacco and light shadings of smoke. It's a fine, elegant wine with a long tannic fade.
Barolo Badarina deserves praise for the intensity of its aromas and the fine quality of its mouthfeel. Bold oak tones of spice and toasted hazelnut will soon fall to the back of the wine's bright fruit and cola flavors. Give it time, patience and drink after 2018.
Barolo Borzoni promises a long road ahead. At this young stage in the wine's life, you'll encounter fresh aromas of raspberry and cherry with toasted nut aromas and exotic spice. The wine opens with a bright garnet color, dense concentration and juicy tannins.
Barolo Bricco delle Viole is a lush and generous wine with a bright ruby color and attractively intense aromas of cherry, wild berry, nutmeg, clove, powdered licorice and root beer. The oak influence is still obvious at this early stage, but will no doubt integrate with time. The mouthfeel is exceedingly soft, smooth and velvety. You don't need to wait too many years before uncorking this bottle.
Barolo Bricco Gattera delivers a full palette of aromas that are characteristics of the Nebbiolo grape. You'll recognize luscious berry fruit, wet earth, leather, tobacco, licorice and white truffle. The wine boasts excellent concentration, good acidity, firm tannins and an elegant finish. Drink after 2012.
Barolo Bricco Rocca boasts its own personality that puts more focus on broader, horizontal aromas of Graham cracker, dried grass and spice rather than vertical notes of cola and mint. Because of its unique traits, this wine would pair with stewed meats or baked white beans.
Barolo Bricco Rocca still needs a few more years in the cellar to allow for full integrations of its spice, fruit, tobacco and mineral components. This beautiful wine is ripe with potential and the mouthfeel is plush and velvety with a wonderful fade of smoke and black fruit. Drink after 2018.
Barolo Briccolina is a study in elegance and finesse and shows the best side of the notoriously finicky Nebbiolo grape. Tar, forest berry, a touch of cassis, licorice and ethereal notes of dried violets and roses opens the complex bouquet. More power is shown on the palate where the wine delivers tight tannins and a polished feel.
Barolo Ca' Mia exhibits earthy tones of wild mushroom and cigar box along with lively tones of dried fruit, cassis syrup, cola, rose and tobacco. The interesting mouthfeel is characterized by both drying mineral tones and sweet cherry liqueur.
Barolo Cantina Tre Serre is a taut and well defined wine with earthy tones and some burmtt aromas of toasted bread or almond at the back of forest berry and root beer-like aromas. There's a long, silky feel in the mouth that underlines the wine's overall finesse.
Barolo Castellero opens with vibrant tones of red cherry and cassis with elegant tones of licorice, cola, mesquite smoke and dried lavender flowers. It's a nuanced, feminine expression of Nebbiolo with impressive complexity and solid tannins at the back.
Barolo Castelletto opens with ripe aromas of blackberry and strawberry with background tones of old leather, spice, espresso bean, tar and root beer. There are drying mineral tones as well and the wine ends with young, slightly astringent tannins.
Barolo Cerretta is a cheerful and friendly wine with defined aromas of cherry, wild berry, dusty mineral, bright spice, root beer and ground ginger. This wine is built to last and will age gracefully ten years or more.
Barolo Ciabot Manzoni is a tremendous wine with rich notes of cherry, vanilla and chocolate. Yes, it's a bold, modern wine but there's no denying the quality and beauty here. Give it more time in the cellar to allow those oak notes to integrate and give more prominence to the sophisticated aromas of wild berries, mineral, cola and licorice that are generously present. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Barolo Colarej is characterized by dark concentration, powdery tannins and bright aromas of forest fruit, cola and exotic spice. The wine presents a compact, streamlined style with a blast of fruit intensity on the finish. Pair this beautiful wine with game hen and black truffle.
Barolo Colonnello is a determined, confident wine with a rich, succulent style and ripe aromas of blackberry, spice, sweet vanilla and polished black stone. The chewy mouthfeel also shows a precise stylistic choice and “the colonel” is richly opulent and enduring on the finish.
Barolo Conca opens with inky dark concentration and soothing aromas of black fruit, spice, cola, plum, prune and dried lavender buds. The nose presents those ethereal and delicate aromas, but in the mouth, it delivers thicker flavors of chocolate and mocha. Drink after 2018.
Barolo Coste di Rose is a darkly concentrated and rich wine with sweet spice overtones of clove, licorice and cinnamon over cherry fruit and raspberry. There's a soft, chewy quality to the mouthfeel that is typical of wines from the 2007 vintage.
Barolo Famiglia Anselma opens with luscious, dark concentration and spicy tones of clove, pepper and honey-roasted almond. Delicate aromas of cassis, cola and licorice fill in the back and help build endurance and persistency for what is a long, pleasurable mouthfeel.
Barolo Gramolere offers an attractive window onto the Nebbiolo grape with peek views at its inherent complexity and elegance. The wine opens with a ruby-garnet color and offers aromas of wild berry, white cherry, tar, licorice, hazelnut and ginger.
Barolo Il Lauro is a soft, plush wine with chocolate and creamy vanilla overtones from the La Morra area of the Langhe. There's plenty of fruit here as well, mostly wild cherry and forest berry, with tight tannins and a sour note on the close. Drink after 2015.
Barolo La Rosa delivers bold, dark concentration with sweet spice tones of almond paste and vanilla cream backed by sharply focused aromas of red berry, cassis, plum and mocha. In the mouth, this beautiful Nebbiolo boasts a linear but long-lasting feel.
Barolo Le Coste is a masculine, taut expression of Nebbiolo with dark color and concentration set against aromas of cured meat, bresaola, sweet oak, toasted nut and sweet red cherry. The wine could age 4–6 years more to give its tight tannins a slightly softer edge
Barolo Le Strette (with fruit sourced from the Novello and Barolo areas of Piedmont) opens with dark, inky concentration and sweet aromas of cinnamon, clove and mature berry fruit. The wine comes on with strength and personality, but in an immediate, one-dimensional manner.
Barolo Leon makes a wonderful first impression thanks to its aromas of ripe berry fruit, Indian spice, cola, licorice and ginger. There's deep dimension and personality here and the wine ends with firmly polished tannins.
Barolo Lorens delivers interesting dimension and personality with a complex bouquet comprised of fruit, spice and cola elements. The aromatic intensity is given a natural lift thanks to the wine's dense pulp and velvety consistency. Sweet cherry flavors fuel a long finish.
Barolo Lorens offers a hearty, meaty expression of Barolo that would pair with beef and wild mushroom stew or bacon-wrapped quail served with wild rice. The wine boasts deep, concentrated extraction with aromas of bresaola, smoke, spice, ripe cherry and red rose accents. It's thick and long lasting with slightly textured tannins.
Barolo Meriame opens with earthy tones of forest floor and bramble followed by lively tones of black licorice and cherry liqueur. This is a delicate, feminine wine with very good staying power.
Barolo Monvigliero is a standout wine that fully encompasses the greater philosophy of the 2007 vintage. This opulent and seriously delicious wine opens with dark, brooding concentration and sweet oak and berry fruit aromas followed by vanilla, leather and tobacco. Pulpy fruit flavors help move the wine smoothly over the palate. Drink in 5–10 years to let the tannic structure subside.
Barolo Monvigliero is a taut but shapely wine with layers of blackberry, plum, licorice, cedar and chopped mint piled high. With more than five years since the harvest, this wine is slowly coming into focus in terms of integration and silkiness.
Barolo Neirane (from the Verduno area of the Langhe, Piedmont) offers pretty Nebbiolo complexity with dark concentration and lasting aromas of vibrant fruit, dark spice, red rose and cherry cola. The wine presents a velvety, soft texture in the mouth with a sweet cherry aftertaste.
Barolo Ornato is a beautiful wine: rich in flavor, intensity and personality. You can taste the quality of the fruit here thanks to the pristine notes of cherry, wild berry, spice and ginger that emerge from the nose. Oak notes of vanilla and cinnamon are nicely integrated and folded within the wine's dense, supple texture.
Barolo Parafada is a lush, meaty and expressive wine with power, heft and bright aromas of cured meat, Bresaola, leather, dried rose, licorice and cola. The wine presents a solid wall of tannins and gritty firmness that will need at least another five years of bottle aging.
Barolo Parafada is a very ripe expression of Nebbiolo with thick aromas of chocolate, raspberry, blueberry jam and cola that suggest hot growing conditions. The wine does have balance and structure though, especially in the mouth where firm tannins leave a lasting impression.
Barolo Pernanno offers a bold and modern interpretation of Nebbiolo that sports tones of vanilla, cinnamon, toasted nut and spice framed around vertical tones of berry fruit, cola and balsam. In fact, there is a medicinal vein of chopped herb or mint that adds to the wine's intensity.
Barolo Prapó is a chewy, fruit-driven wine with a broad array of aromas that include black cherry, chocolate powder, creamy vanilla and exotic spice. Cinnamon, clove and ginger all appear in the mouth and are powered by the wine's thick texture and deep concentration. Let it age two or three more years and pair it with roast lamb or pork.
Barolo Riva is a fantastic wine with enormous personality and charm. At the outset, the wine appears modern and bold with determined aromas of black fruit and spice. But wait a second and the wine will surprise you with its sassy complexity and finesse. Give it 10 more years of cellar aging. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a classic wine with crisp lines, great structure and loads of complexity. Aromas of spice, red fruit, leather and tobacco are well integrated and never over the top. The finish offers compelling intensity with touches of chopped mint and licorice.
Barolo Rocche opens with inky-dark concentration, chewy ripe cherry flavors and lingering hints of cola, mint and licorice. The more the wine opens in the glass, the more it evolves aromatically to include tones of barbecue, mesquite and smoke.
Barolo Roere presents charred notes of charcoal or campfire that will relax with time but that mask some of the wine's natural fruit at this young age. The wine shows good structure and freshness and would make a perfect pairing partner to pork crown roast stuffed with chestnuts and sage.
Barolo San Lorenzo has very nice intensity—it's there, but not in your face. The wine is already starting to show some interesting mineral components that are backed by black fruit, licorice and truffle. Its intensity builds in the glass and although it starts slow, it picks up loads of speed in the mouth. Drink after 2015.
Barolo Serre is made with fruit sourced from various vineyard sites. This gorgeous wine opens with a modern touch of sweet spice and toasted nut lavished over ethereal aromas of cherry liqueur and dark licorice. Drink in 5–10 years.
Barolo Serre is not as intense as the Cannubi expression, although the wine does put its main focus on elegance and harmony. Aromas include anise, lavender flower, church incense, wild berries and ground ginger. Its bright fruit flavors unfold gently in the mouth and culminate in a drying, but firm finish.
Barolo Sorano (from the Serralunga d'Alba area) is an impressive wine with big color and extraction followed by aromas of cherry liqueur, spice, vanilla, clove and ginger. The wine is chewy and succulent in the mouth with firm tannins that will soften with time. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Barolo Sotto Castello di Novello is a gorgeous wine with opulent chocolate and cherry notes backed by rich texture and concentration. This wine shows long aging potential thanks to the brightness of its fruit, its natural complexity and the beautiful power of the mouthfeel.
Barolo Tebavio delivers a wild, untamed nature with aromas of wet earth, blue flower, underbrush, white mushroom and wild berries. Those aromas are a bit muddled at first but unwind with time in the glass to reveal a solid, firm whole. In the mouth, it is streamlined and tight.
Barolo Terlo Ravera opens with soft oak tones that still need time to integrate. But the great promise of this wine are its beautiful layers of ripe berry fruit, cassis, leather, chocolate and toasted coconut. The concentration is inky and thick and the finish is very long lasting. Drink after 2018.
Barolo Vigna Merenda opens with a bright bouquet composed of cherry, spice, floral and balsam elements. This is also an extremely mineral-driven wine that exposes a vein of graphite or crushed stone at its core. Thanks to the wine's natural structure and long persistency, it would make a perfect pairing partner to any dish with black truffles.
Barolo Vigna Rué is a meaty, beefy expression of Nebbiolo with generous tones of leather and tobacco backed by red cherry, spice, smoked beef jerky and soy sauce. Dark fruit concentration helps pad against the fresh oak tones that are also evident (and that will surely soften with more bottle aging).
Barone Ricasoli delivers a top-class Chianti Classico that is penetrating, proud and modern at the same time. The wine is creamy and dense in the mouth with satisfying flavors of blackberry, cured meat and exotic spice. Very nice.
Barrantes is always a full-bodied Albariño from one of Rias Baixas's warmest subzones. The nose on the '07 is of doughnuts and pastry, with sweet pear kicking in. The flavors are peach, apricot and ripe citrus fruits, and the finish is pithy and wide. Plods along a bit; could stand to be lighter and smoother in scope.
Barrel-based aromas are up front, with acacia and buttered-toast notes lurking in the shadows. This blend of Viura, Malvasia and Garnacha Blanca is round and lifted, with resiny apple and apricot flavors. A spicy, woody finish fits the bill for this drink-now white Rioja.
Barrel-fermented , this nonetheless offers clean, crisp flavors of pear and pineapple on the palate. The fruit lingers through a medium-sized body that picks up steam on the finish, delving into richer notes of fig and lemon curd. The fruit is 100% estate.
Barrel-fermented and aged briefly in 20% new French oak, this wine offers a whiff of barrel reduction before revealing a well-defined profile of lemon and stone fruit. From vineyards in both Dry Creek and Sonoma valleys, it wears its oak well, finishing crisp and salty.
Barrel-fermented and aged in 15% new French oak, this is Pinot Blanc done in a Chardonnay style. Buttery and toasty, with light Asian pear and green apple fruit, it's balanced and drinking nicely, best for near-term consumption.
Barrel-fermented and aged on the lees, this Burgundian-style Chard is creamy and rich in ripe tropical fruit flavors and new oak. It's a big wine, forward in pineapple and mango flavors that are honey-ripe and crisp.
Barrel-fermented and aged sur lie for 10 months, this elegant Chardonnay offers immaculate scents and flavors of lemon rind and pith, a dusting of spice, and a generous slice of ripe apple. It's full and luscious in the mouth, with appealing texture, barrel toast and just a pat of butter in the finish.
Barrel-fermented and blended with a splash of Sémillon, this is a creamy, rounded and concentrated white, intense in vanilla and apricot flavor.
Barrel-fermented and pungent, with a whiff of glue, this has a simple mix of mint and wax aromas.
Barrel-fermented Dijon clones make for a full-bodied wine with plenty of grip. It's fruity with chewy melon and ripe peach. Just 8% of the oak was new, but light, buttery notes soften up the finish.
Barrel-fermented in entirely new Russian oak, not something one sees every day, this somewhat thin, while ripe, wine offers a curious combination of anise and ham.
Barrel-fermented in French oak, this wine is high in acidity and subtle in wood flavors, offering a brightness of citrus, pear and peach. Seamless on the palate and steely, it's well balanced and elegant.
Barrel-fermented in half new, half neutral oak, this tasty wine offers crisp highlights of lemon and orange peel, along with substantial apple, kiwi and pear flavors. An appealing touch of crème brûlée comes out as it makes its graceful exit.
Barrel-fermented in neutral oak, this is a ripe, creamy wine with mix of pineapple and buttered nuts. The secondary fermentation was stopped at 50%, leaving generous acidity and balancing out the intensity of the fruit. This wine punches above its price weight, and will drink well now through 2020.
Barrel-fermented in neutral oak, this is ready to drink, softly flavorful with yellow apple and other yellow fruits, and a warm, autumnal mouthfeel. Drink now through 2018.
Barrel-fermented in neutral wood, this gives a quick whiff of buttered croissant, then dives into a moderately ripe palate with lime, pineapple and lemon rind. It's an all-purpose and appealing wine that is drinking nicely right now.
Barrel-fermented in stainless steel and neutral oak, this aromatic wine rolls into a gorgeous palate loaded with rich fruit flavors of pineapple, grapefruit and Meyer lemon. There's a suggestion of softness to the acids, and a lick of butterscotch runs through the finish. It's a totally engaging wine.
Barrel-fermented Pinot Gris is a bit of a rarity, but this one is good if you like the style. Buttered apples and nuts lead the way, backed by tangerine fruit and outlined by oaky spice. Tough to know whether aging it will result in slightly better integration, or if you're better off drinking this one young.
Barrel-fermented Roussanne isn't what you'd expect from Provence, but this is an excellent wine, offering subtle smoke and toasted hazelnut aromas to go with white peach fruit. It boasts honeyed richness, plenty of weight and a long, cinnamon-infused finish.
Barrel-fermented, this is bright and heavily flavored with sweet new oak. It's young and forward, but will benefit from additional bottle age in order to integrate fully the barrel flavors with the crisp, clean, apple-flavored fruit.
Barrel-fermented, this is dripping in honey and caramel surrounded by ripe golden apple and passionfruit. Accentuating the richness is a balance of acidity and texture, making for a beautifully complex wine.
Barrel-fermented, this is medium-sized all the way around, offering medium acidity, texture, body and finish. Flavors are autumnal in juicy lemon-lime, Golden Delicious apple and creamy pear.
Barrel-fermented, this Sauvignon Blanc has a rich, creamy mouthfeel. Smoky notes of vanilla and sweet oak frame flavors of lemons and limes, figs, pineapples and cinnamon sugar.
Barrel-forward aromas of vanilla and toast are in front of herb and cherry. The palate brings a sense of polish and appeal, with the tannins bringing some squeeze on the finish.
Barrel-related aromas of caramel, popcorn and baked pear dominate the nose, while the palate brings notes of citrus zest, with lively minerality and cutting acidity. This chiseled Chardonnay tastes like tart nectarine, green apple and lime, while the finish is tight as a drum. Drink through 2022.
Barrel aged for 12 months, this 95% Merlot wine (with a dash of Cabernet Franc) is very dominated by its wood. That gives it a seriously toasty character that dominates the fruit. At five years old, it should be more balanced.
Barrel aged in French oak with lees influences, this Chardonnay has ripe, flashy pineapple, lime, peach, vanilla, honey, sourdough-bread and buttered-toast flavors. It's fine for drinking now with shellfish, mushroom risotto or Peking duck.
Barrel aging for 10 years has begun to change the fruit of this rich wine. It has introduced spice, acidity and a tangy, bitter orange character. The fruit hasn't gone completely and the balance of this wine, neither young nor old, it is just right. Drink now.
Barrel aging for 12 months certainly renders this wine  round and rich. Juiciness combines with a severe, dry structure from the Cabernet to give a meaty ripe wine, surrounded with acidity, black fruits and a final soft, toasty character. Screwcap.
Barrel aging in 50% new French oak for 16 months is evident on the nose in this wine, giving it a reduced quality. But with enough time and air it begins to unveil thickets of brambly red and black berry, with a wild raspberry compote component that's quite stunning. Cardamom and pine accent the rest of the palate, which is textured and complex. Drink now through 2023.
Barrel aromas and flavors of dill, vanilla, cocoa and wood spice are far out front, overwhelming any sense of fruit or variety. The wood completely steals the show.
Barrel aromas and malolactic notes are prominent in this wine, suggesting baking spice and vanilla. The palate is full and creamy, needing a bit more acidity to hold it together but still providing enjoyment.
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla and wood spice along with herb. The palate brings tart cherry flavors that taper toward the finish. The variety seems to get lost.
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla, cocoa and milk chocolate out in front of blackberry and black cherry. The palate also mixes fruit and barrel, showing pleasing depth of flavors and intensity along with a silky texture.
Barrel aromas are in the lead here, with notes of sawdust and cedar, along with Band Aid and gamy notes. Dark fruit aromas are in the background. The full-bodied flavors reveal more of the same, showing a lot of heat.
Barrel aromas are in the lead, with notes of toast, café au lait, vanilla and caramel. The palate is full of cherry and barrel flavors, backed by lightly gritty tannins. Vanilla notes persist on the finish.
Barrel aromas are out front on this 100% varietal wine, with notes of wood spice, vanilla, pencil lead and baking spice followed by dark plum. The flavors are dense, dark and palate coating. The wood shows quite prominently on the palate as well but if you can get beyond it, there are good things happening.
Barrel aromas are out front with notes of wood spice, vanilla and cocoa followed by dark cherries and herb, starting to show a bit of age. The palate is fruit filled but shows the restraint of the vintage. The oak seems a bit overweighted.
Barrel aromas are out front, with notes of char, toast and vanilla along with dark raspberry and spice. The palate presents a mixture of fruit and barrel, with the latter showing a bit too prominently.
Barrel aromas are up front on this wine, with notes of char, smoke and coffee bean ahead of herb and cherry. On the palate, the barrel influence also seems to overwhelm the fruit, which doesn't quite have the strength to stand up. Additional time in the bottle might bring it around.
Barrel aromas are up front, with notes of vanilla, dill and wood spice in front of dark fruit. The fruit flavors are plump and plush, with vanilla notes lingering on the finish. There are lots of good things going on here but the wood gets in the way—a shame as the fruit is impressive.
Barrel aromas are up front, with notes of wood spice alternating with game and dark fruit. The fruit, wood and game flavors mix in equal parts on the palate, not entirely in harmony.
Barrel aromas of toast and char are at the fore, followed by black fruit, graphite and spice. The palate is full bodied with ripe, generous dark-fruit flavors. The oak seems a bit heavy handed but there are lots of good things going on.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and baking spice are at the fore, with cranberry lurking in the background. The dried fruit flavors drink off dry, with cranberry flavors on the finish.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and coconut are followed by fruit-forward cranberry and raspberry flavors and a vanilla-filled finish. The oak plays prominently.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and graphite take the lead. The red-fruit flavors are ripe and jammy. There are plenty of good things going on but they don't quite all come together.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and mocha are at the fore, followed by blue fruit and blackberries. The palate displays a mixture of fruit and barrel flavors that linger through the finish.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and spice are initially in the lead on this Cabernet Sauvignon (71%) dominant blend along with blistered red pepper. The palate offers reserved cherry and herb flavors, bright acidity and grainy tannins.
Barrel aromas of vanilla and woodspice are out front and lead to light, elegant fruit and barrel flavors that vie for attention through the finish.
Barrel aromas of vanilla, cocoa and coconut are at the fore. The black-fruit and barrel flavors provide a lot of appeal.
Barrel aromas of vanilla, coconut and cocoa take the lead on this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, followed by dried cherry and plum. The cranberry and sour-cherry flavors are concentrated and disclose an intriguing mixture of tart and sweet.
Barrel aromas of vanilla, coconut and toast are at the fore followed by luxurious coffee and plum flavors that linger. Grainy tannins back it all up.
Barrel aromas of vanilla, coconut, coffee and spice mix with black cherry on a wine that displays a whiff of volatility. The flavors are full and lush, with the Cabernet Sauvignon (15%) and Merlot (10%) helping to flesh it all out. The variety gets lost in the style but it delivers enjoyment.
Barrel aromas of vanilla, toast and woodspice are at the fore. The palate brings a full feel, with the wood taking over.
Barrel aromas take the lead with notes of vanilla, dill and coconut followed by cherry, herbs and mesquite. Flavors are tart and medium bodied, with the fruit outpaced by the wood.
Barrel fermentation and aging (20% new) puts the wood at the fore here with notes of vanilla and oak spice along with white peach. It's viscous and oily with the alcohol showing prominently.
Barrel fermentation and aging have given this wine its ripe character. They have filled it out with spiciness, adding complexity to the yellow fruit and maturing acidity. It's not going to age much further but is very fine to drink now.
Barrel fermentation gives this a nice, spicy edge around softer flavors of melon and peach. There's a wash of vanilla as well, and as the flavors smooth out through a soft midpalate, a hint of butter comes up and completes the finish.
Barrel fermentation has rounded and softened this wine without it losing focus. Crisp apple and pear fruit carries it, with a whiff of white asparagus.
Barrel fermentation helps round out the flavors here, and the wine is drinking quite nicely at this young age. Apple and cinnamon notes combine gracefully, finishing on a touch of fresh pastry.
Barrel fermentation, malolactic fermentation and lees aging add buttery, creamy, spicy complexities to this clean, steely wine. The underlying fruity flavors are not intense and veer toward leaner citrus and green apple flavors. It's a focused wine, not overblown. —S.H.
Barrel fermentation, with the full malolactic treatment, yields a ripe, buttery wine that sets up rich and plush on the palate. Despite the fat, buttery style it isn't overblown or flabby, and lingers through a clean, polished finish.
Barrel fermented and aged for 14 months in French oak, this enters with a nutty, toasty flavor around lighter fruit. Jicama, apple and white peach combine in the midpalate, then thin out quickly, with some bite to the finish.
Barrel fermented and aged in 100% new French oak, this wine brings aromas of toasty barrel spices, peach and lemon curd. It's full bodied and creamy in feel, with the alcohol poking through and providing some distraction.
Barrel fermented and aged in 60% new French oak, this wine shows a pleasing mixture of fruit and barrel, intermingling aromas of toast, stone and tropical fruit, spice and butter. Flavors are light and elegant, but show a pleasing sense of balance.
Barrel fermented and aged in American oak for 15 months, this is a big and powerfully oaky Chard with dominating notes of butter, wood-infused stone fruit and apple pie along with a hint of grapefruit oil in the mouth. The finish is toasty  with a lingering vanilla bean note.
Barrel fermented and aged in French oak (16% new), this wine has a creamy, textured feel that plays well with its aromas of melted butter, pear and spice. Pair it with seafood risotto.
Barrel fermented and aged in once-used French oak, this wine offers generous aromas of corn on the cob, corn silk, baked apple and spice. The flavors are silky and restrained, showing a lovely sense of balance.
Barrel fermented and aged on lees for 17 months, this straw-colored wine offers nuanced aromas of spice, pear, pineapple and peach. It's full bodied in feel but far from over the top with well-balanced fruit and barrel flavors and a lingering finish.
Barrel fermented and aged on the lees for almost a year, this is a nutty, slightly oily wine that shows the influence of the barrel, but lacks the fruit density to match it. The 14% alcohol hits the palate with some heat. High-toned and a bit harsh.
Barrel fermented and aged on the lees, this wine is dry, crisp and dull. The orange and peach flavors are watery, oaky and herbal.
Barrel fermented and left on the lees for 10 months, this fruity, fleshy, creamy wine tastes of citrus (oranges) and tropical (banana) fruits, and still shows the unresolved tannins from the barrels. It's slightly bitter as a result, and will profit from additional bottle age or decanting.
Barrel fermented and put through full malolactic with regular batonnage, this superbly balanced, graceful Chardonnay is orchestrated around a complex mix of pear, tropical fruit, biscuit, cream soda and light baking spices. The acidity carries a hint of mineral, and the palate impression is lively and smooth.
Barrel fermented and ripened to exceptionally high alcohol, this dark, soapy wine is over the top in flavor. Not a trace of varietal character is left, just barrel and burn, plus intense perfume that dominates the nose. Drink up; it's already going over the hill.
Barrel fermented in French and eastern European oak, this is lightly aromatic with notees of butter, vanilla and cardamom with a creamy feel, showing some heat on the finish.
Barrel fermented in French oak, this wine is made in a full style with plenty of nut, herb and fig aromas and flavors. Big, even fat on the palate, it offers considerable weight and texture. The lengthy finish with herb and mineral accents is particularly appealing.
Barrel fermented in neutral French oak, this mouth-watering Pinot Blanc uses fruit from the Meredith Mitchell and Freedom Hill vineyards. It rested on the lees until bottling, yielding a rich, even creamy wine, with a gentle spiciness and plenty of acidity. A hint of beeswax and the lightest suggestion of toast bring more interest to the finish.
Barrel fermented in neutral oak, this Mendo Tocai Friulano is dry and slightly savory. Aromatic with citrus—mostly lemon—and a crisp taste of lemon on the palate too. A plate of savory, spicy charcuterie and herb-dusted cheeses would pair just right.
Barrel fermented in new and used French oak and aged sur lie for seven months, this appealing wine brings aromas of pear, spice, fig and papaya. The Sémillon blended in (16%) adds to the palate's richness and weight, with the pleasingly long finish contributing to the enjoyment.
Barrel fermented in new French oak, then pulled out and put into neutral oak. So the acids are softened, the wine gains some flesh, and there are nuances of toast and butter without overwhelming the fruit.
Barrel fermented in older oak, but this wine is still marked by oak and lees, with a slightly toasty, custardy edge to the melon and nectarine aromas and flavors. This medium-bodied Viognier then picks up hints of coffee and chocolate on the finish. Drink now.
Barrel fermented, 20% of it new French oak, this is a bright lemon yellow, with scents of wood and toast. There's a slim streak of something else in the aromas that seems not quite right, a little fishy smell. The wine does not come together in the mouth; it's a jumble of round stone fruits, cardboard and a slightly rancid finish.
Barrel fermented, soft and ripe with bright fruits, especially banana, but also pear, apricot, peach and citrus. Rich and creamy, it combines sweet barrel toast with a hint of honey. Lush through the finish, which adds caramel and cinnamon toast.
Barrel fermented, with deep fruit flavors of orange concentrate, Meyer lemon, candied pineapple and pear. A smorgasbord of fruit, nicely set against light caramel and toast from the barrels. Could not be more delicious, in a drink-now style.
Barrel fermented. Scents of new wood dominate; the juice is very tart, the oak not yet well-integrated.
Barrel flavors of toast and chocolate cover light strawberry fruit. It's pleasant enough, but the flavors have not yet jelled. Give it until 2016 to age.
Barrel influences takes over aromatically, with notes of wood, toast and dark chocolate in front of golden raisins, with the fruit seeming somewhat dried out. The palate brings tart cranberry and cherry flavors that show a sense of liveliness. Good things are going on but the aromas and palate seem a bit disconnected at present.
Barrel notes and outright wood resin are the aromas that dominate. In the mouth, it's a blend of sharp acidity, citrus zest and cidery astringency. Woody flavors match the bouquet, while an apple note pops up late. On the finish, this tastes wheaty and woody.
Barrel notes are prominent, with aromas of Creamsicle and baking spice. The palate is broad and dry with stone-fruit and barrel flavors. It provides intrigue but the wood seems to get in the way at times.
Barrel notes dominate, with aromas of vanilla, pencil lead and coconut shavings out in front of purple fruit that's struggling to get to the surface. The palate is tart and elegantly styled, but the wood takes over the show.
Barrel notes of burnt popcorn and char overtake any varietal aromas on this wine. Flavors seem quite light accented by a lightly creamy feel.
Barrel notes of spice, vanilla, caramel and herbs lead to red- and blue-fruit flavors, with the tannins showing some astringency. Merlot wouldn't be a first guess but it still brings appeal.
Barrel notes of toast and spice intermingle with stone fruit aromas and flavors that show nuance. The flavors are light but the feel is compelling.
Barrel notes of toast, butterscotch and spice are at the fore along with melted butter and peach on this 100% Canyon Vineyard Ranch wine. It's full bodied with a rich, creamy feel, wanting a bit more concentration and acidity to keep it together.
Barrel notes of vanilla and spice take the lead in this aromatically brooding wine, followed by dried herbs and dark fruit. The flavors are pitch black, coating the palate from end to end with layers of fruit, tannins that go the distance and a graphite-filled finish that lingers. It will drink best from 2020–2027.
Barrel notes of vanilla, baking spice and dill are at the fore, with dark fruit lurking in the background. The palate brings lingering creamy-feeling fruit and barrel flavors. It provides appeal but the oak seems too forward.
Barrel notes of vanilla, cocoa and dill mix with licorice and red fruit. The flavors are tart with light smoky notes and a firm squeeze of tannins.
Barrel notes take the lead with aromas of char, butterscotch and spice overrunning the fruit. There's a pleasing creamy feel to the sweet fruit flavors but the variety is near impossible to find.
Barrel scents of smoke and bacon fat cover blackberry fruit, and lead into a thick, toasty wine designed to win friends. It's forward and bright, with pretty fruit flavors of strawberry, black cherry and more. The oak flavors are generous and lush, complementing the tart, acidic snap of the fruit.
Barrel spice, dried herb, toast and cherry aromas lead to tart fruit flavors that narrow toward the finish, with tart acids livening it all up. Perhaps some more time will pull it all together.
Barrel spice, pineapple, butterscotch and candlewax aromas are followed by full-bodied tropical-fruit flavors. It displays a lot of richness but retains its sense of balance.
Barrel spice, violet, tobacco and earth aromas are followed by blue- and purple-fruit flavors, with the tannins showing a surprising amount of softness and suppleness for the variety. It's a mixture of intrigue and delivery, with a finish that glides.
Barrel toast and smoky gunpowder scents give this wine a savory edginess before revealing medium-bodied layers of baked blackberry and cherry.
Barrel toast rises on the nose of this cloudy, still youthful wine, still somewhat to be determined in complexity and nuance, yet undoubtedly impressive on the nose and palate. Delicious acidity is at its core, supportive of its sharp, crispness of apple, richer tones of creme brûlée and exotic foundation.
Barrel tones of coconut and woodspice take the lead in front of cranberry and blackberry, with the fruit seeming a bit dried out. It's reserved in style but still fully flavored with sour cherries accented by licorice.
Barriano is a rosemary green and slightly vegetal blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that is balanced out by a good dose of plump red cherry in the mouth.
Bartlett pear and freshly squeezed lime juice carry the nose, while flavors of green apple, pear and lime rind drive the crisp, elegant palate. The finish shows nuance, with a slightly astringent mouthfeel.
Basarin (in the Neive area of Barbaresco) is a well-exposed, south-facing vineyard with sandy soils that can be hit or miss with Nebbiolo. Thankfully, the outstanding 2004 vintage shows the best of this special cru. This is a thick and highly tannic wine with alluring notes of beef jerky, hickory, root beer and black currant that would pair with important meat dishes. Drink after 2015.
Basarin unveils super seductive aromas of mocha fudge, clove, toasted almond, sweet cherry and cured meat. There's enormous depth and density here and the finish is thick and chewy. The wine lasts long on the palate and would pair perfectly with any truffle-based dish. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Base notes of vanilla, peach and honeysuckle linger on the nose as honeydew and chamomile show in the background. Tangerine, honeysuckle, peach, honeydew and ginger show on the rich palate, with a zip of acidity o the long, tingly finish.
Based around a blend of grand cru wines and with seven years aging, this wine combines a rich texture with tight acidity and hints of toast from the wood fermentation. A creamy background gives the mature fruits their chance to show beautifully. The wine is ready to drink although it will age at least until 2025.
Based around a magnificent neo-Gothic pile, the vineyard of Clément-Pichon has produced a fruity and only lightly tannic wine. Attractive, juicy black currant fruits are direct and fresh. It should mature quickly; drink from 2017.
Based around the 2013 vintage, this wine is young. Perfumed apple and pineapple fruits are tightly laced with lemon and crisp acidity. These contrast with the creamy mousse that adds a softer touch. Age this bottling until 2018.
Based at the eastern end of the Montagne de Reims, this cooperative only uses grapes grown in the grand cru vineyards of Mailly. This nonvintage wine is no exception, giving a rich blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that is ripe and driven both by minerality and white-fruit flavors. The bottling is ready to drink.
Based for three generations in Chouilly on the Côte des Blancs, this producer offers a nonvintage Champagne that is attractively fruity, soft and creamily textured. Bright acidity is balanced by pear and white-peach flavors. This fruity wine is ready to drink.
Based in Aix-en-Provence, this négociant company has sourced a beautiful wine from cool vineyards in the northern part of the Côtes de Provence region. The result is a lightly mineral wine with a crisp red-currant heart that is refreshing and good for an apéritif.
Based in Avize in the Côte des Blancs, producer Michel Gonet specializes in Chardonnay-based wines. Produced from grand cru vineyards in Mesnil-sur-Oger, this mineral textured wine is ripe while keeping a proper crisp tension. White fruits go with citrus to add the bright aftertaste. Drink now. Gonet uses this label for the American market.
Based in Bué, one of the top villages of Sancerre, this producer has made a ripe, crisp and nervy wine that comes from chalk soil. Tangy with a mineral texture, it offers rich currant and lime flavors and full-throated final acidity. Drink now.
Based in Burgundy, this producer understands Chardonnay. That's why this wine is so finely balanced, with a ripe and perfumed character and a warm, full aftertaste. Drink now.
Based in Burgundy, Tramier should know something about Chardonnay. This wine has some structure that tastes of cool vineyards. It is crisp, with refreshing white fruit and green-plum flavors, and is ready to drink.
Based in Carmel, this producer ventures north to Napa and Sonoma for grapes. It crafts this earthy, ethereal wine from Russian River fruit and donates part of its sales proceeds to a handful of charities. Mushroom, licorice, tea and cherry are all well-represented, wrapped in a conservative idling of oak.
Based in Celles-sur-Ource in the Seine Valley on the Côte des Bar, this producer's nonvintage wine is ripe despite its dry extra brut dosage. With the unusual proportion of 25% Pinot Blanc in the blend, it is smooth and soft, finishing with just the right tangy acidity and a steely texture. Drink now.
Based in Chamery on the northern slopes of the Montagne de Reims, this producer has made an immediately attractive nonvintage wine. Fruity and with crisp acidity it hits a good point between dry and sweeter in the Brut range, making it very drinkable, with a crisp aftertaste.
Based in Clare Valley, Wakefield sources this fruit from the cooler Adelaide Hills. Attractive rose-petal and dry earth aromas lead the way, followed by notes of black cherries and licorice on the palate. It's a bit full-bodied and muscular, a Pinot more for steak than salmon.
Based in Epernay, this Champagne house specializes in bone-dry Champagnes. Like this bottling, they need some time before the acidity calms down. This has the potential to be delicious, crisp, and full of a bright mineral texture and citrus fruitiness. Drink from 2018.
Based in Epernay, this cooperative has produced a crisp balanced wine. A zesty, lightly mineral texture gives shape and precision to the citrus fruit and bright aftertaste. It is still young, so drink this vintage wine from 2019.
Based in Fleurie in northern Beaujolais, this domaine also has a few acres of old vines in Saint-Jean d'Ardières in the Beaujolais appellation. This wine with its cherry flavor has a tangy, mineral character while relying on fresh fruit and crisp acidity for its lively, bright effect. Drink now.
Based in Fleurie in northern Beaujolais, this Marrans Gamay is firm and with good tannins, delivering both fruit and structure. With a dark layer of smokiness as well as black-cherry fruit flavors, it is concentrated and worth aging a few months. Drink from 2016.
Based in Fleurie, this producer has made a wine rich in fruit and tannins. It has a smoky spicy character as well as intense red fruits. It is warm, concentrated and ready to drink.
Based in Humbligny, midway between Menetou-Salon and Sancerre, this producer has vines in both appellations. A delicate, perfumed wine, this enjoys a good balance between acidity and apple and white peach flavors. It's rounded, full in the mouth and ready to drink.
Based in Les Riceys in the Aube region, this producer has taken advantage of the ripe Pinot Noir to produce a ripe, juicy and fruity Champagne. With fine acidity to cut the generous crisp pear and melon flavors, the wine is balanced, accessible and ready.
Based in Ludes on the northern slope of the Montagne de Reims, this producer's nonvintage Brut is cool, crisp and dry. Fruity with attractive apple and white stone fruit flavors, it boasts taut, citrusy acidity and can be drunk now.
Based in Macau in the southern Médoc, this estate is dominated by Merlot. That gives a rich wine, suffused with some attractive dusty tannins and juicy blackberry fruit. The aftertaste leaves crisp acidity. Drink the wine from 2019.
Based in Mesnil-sur-Oger, this producer specializes in Chardonnay blanc de blancs. This nonvintage is a fine expression of the style, full of minerality softened by rich fruit, much of it from Grand Cru vineyards. A delicate wine, it's subtly fruity, with an enticing floral character. Drink now.
Based in nearby Cornas, Colombo has fashioned a medium-bodied Condrieu that's a bit oily in texture while remaining very drinkable. Mint, melon and apricot notes mark the aromas and flavors, while the finish is clean and refreshing.
Based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Manuel Olivier has made a specialty of the wines from the Hautes Côtes in the hills behind the city. This is a light and fruity wine with freshness and some firm, dry tannins, although it's ready to drink now.
Based in Nuits Saint-Georges, Aegerter has its own domaine around the town. This wine, with its new wood and spice flavors, is balanced with red-berry fruits and soft tannins. It will develop well and should be ready to drink from 2019.
Based in Nuits Saint-Georges, Manuel Olivier understands the appellation well. That is shown in this bottling that manages to combine the structure of a Nuits wine with dark fruits and a juicy texture. It's rich while also firm. Drink from 2017.
Based in Saint-Hippolyte, the northernmost village of Haut-Rhin, this domaine has produced a smooth, ripe Pinot Blanc, immediately accessible and showing a full, spicy character. Attractive and ready to drink.
Based in Temecula, Lorenzi is trying its hand with Napa Valley Chardonnay here and not with the best results. The wine has a dark golden color and plenty of vanilla, pear and pineapple but on the finish the citrus is so sour it's tough to recommend.
Based in the Aube in southern Champagne, Fluteau's vineyards are in the Seine valley. This crisp, tight and dry wine is balanced although still young. Textured crisp apple and lemon flavors have a taut, nervy character. It needs to age for a few more months, so drink from 2016.
Based in the Côte de Sézanne, this producer has created a Pinot Noir-dominated blend. Its white stone-fruit aromas and soft texture point to a wine that is generous with its fruitiness, citrus and pear flavors leading the way. The wine is soft with a relatively high dosage. It is ready to drink.
Based in the Côte des Blancs Grand Cru village of Oger, this producer draws on some very fine vines. That superior fruit gives this vintage wine its texture, minerality and intensity. Crisp with acidity and a flinty texture, it still needs further time to develop. Drink from 2019.
Based in the Côte des Blancs, Nicolas Feuillatte has access to some fine Chardonnay for this mineral-textured wine. Lightly perfumed with white flowers, it is crisp and fresh, with sliced apple and lemon right up front. The wine is fruity now and will age well. Either drink now or wait for more maturity from 2017.
Based in the Côte des Blancs, this producer enjoys access to some fine Chardonnay. This ripe, aromatic wine, a blanc de blancs in all but name, conveys maturity as well as tangy mineral texture. The aftertaste is soft.
Based in the Côte des Blancs, this producer has made a soft, ripe style of Blanc de Blancs. It's smooth and creamy in texture, drinkable now with its hint of toastiness balanced by crisper apple flavors.
Based in the Chardonnay region of the Côte des Blancs, it's no surprise that this producer has a dominance of that grape in its blend. The wine has great minerality as well as tight acidity and delicious citrus flavors. It's a dry, finely balanced wine to drink now.
Based in the cru villages of Chénas, Pierre-André Dumas also has vines in Brouilly. This is a soft fruity wine with attractive red cherry flavors and a minimum of tannins. It is fresh and light, ready to drink now for its fruitiness, although ready to age at least until 2019.
Based in the Grand Cru village of Cramant, this producer has access to some fine vineyards which go into its nonvintage cuvée. It is textured, tight, fruity and with fine acidity to cut through the apple and lemon fruitiness. Drink now.
Based in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers, this vineyard has ancient monastic origins. The 2005 is a well-balanced wine, structured with Cabernet and rounded with Merlot. The fruit is rich, not complex, but very food friendly.
Based in the heart of the Haut-Médoc, this property has produced a wine that shows a dry character, with bitter extraction and too much wood. There are just hints of juicy fruit that will need time to come through. It could well stay dry and firm always.
Based in the Jura, this producer blends grapes from other regions to make this fresh, crisp and apple-flavored wine. It's light, bright and just off dry, with attractive acidity. Like it's rosé partner, it is really for apéritifs.
Based in the Marne Valley, Huré Frères has produced a fresh Champagne. It's full in the mouth, rounded and brimming with youthful fruitiness. Just a touch of sweetness at the end gives a soft aftertaste.
Based in the Marne Valley, this producer is a specialist in Pinot Meunier—here, it's 90% of the blend. The orange-pink wine is full of red fruits balanced with attractive acidity. A light tannic edge gives the wine a final bite.
Based in the Marne Valley, this producer specializes in Pinot Meunier, which forms 80% of this blend. That makes for a ready-to-drink, soft wine with attractive spice and pear fruit cut with a citrus aftertaste. A delicious wine on the dry side, it is good as an apéritif.
Based in the northern Rhône, Chapoutier's Châteauneufs have not always been a strong suit, but the 2006 Barbe Rac rocks. Some stable-like notes on the nose add complexity to the bold cherry fruit, while stemmy, herbal notes bring even more nuance to the palate. It's full bodied, soft and round, with a finishing texture somewhere between silk and velvet. Best from 2012–2020.
Based in the Pouilly-Fumé area, but with vines in Sancerre, this producer has made a rich wine with a line of steely acidity. The spice and touch of vanilla are balanced by the crisp lemon and gooseberry fruitiness. The wine is ready to drink.
Based in the small Sézanne vineyard region south of Epernay, this producer's nonvintage cuvée is dominated by Chardonnay. It reflects the house style: crisp, steely with a good balance between acidity and citrus and apple fruitiness. Drink this refreshing Champagne now.
Based in the southern Alentejo, this producer has made an old-fashioned, dark, brooding wine. It's still full of tannins even after six years, although the fruit is certainly there. It is rich and concentrated, dense with plum skin and ripe fruit flavors. The aftertaste is dry. The wine needs to age another year. Drink from 2017.
Based in the southern Champagne Aube region, this producer offers a reserve cuvée that is ripe and full of fruit, with tangy acidity and a crisp texture. It offers good balance between lime and apple fruits and a richer character that makes it a great apéritif style. This bottling is ready to drink.
Based in the southern Champagne vineyards of the Aube, the Charles Clément cooperative has made a rich, full-bodied and fruity non-vintage wine. It has forward apple flavor and a soft, creamy texture brightened with lemon zest and brisk acidity. A touch of toast adds complexity to this bottling.
Based in the village of Beaujeu, this producer has made a dense wine that needs time for the fruits to develop. It is juicy with acidity that is beginning to show through the tannins. Give this cru wine time and drink starting from 2018.
Based in the village of Cramant, Voirin-Jumel has access to Grand Cru Chardonnay vineyards. This crisp and tight wine is packed with acidity, fresh citrus and a taut, steely texture. It is still young and fruity, and could do with some bottle age.
Based in the village of Lancié in the heart of the Beaujolais crus, this producer has made a ripe wine that is full of black-cherry fruits and balanced tannins. It is concentrated and ripe, perfumed with a fresh, crisp aftertaste.
Based in the village of Les Loges, close to the Loire, this producer has made a light, fruity style of wine. It is crisp with citrus, bright acidity and only the hint of a more mineral texture. It can be drunk now for its fruitiness.
Based in Vértus, at the southern end of the Côte des Blancs, Colin is a family-owned grower. The style is full-on, fruity, but with an attractive oxidative bottle-aged edge that rounds the texture out. There is some tight minerality and the wine is finely in balance.
Based mainly on vines in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, this impressive wine is superbly rich with just the merest hint of age. With its lively mousse, secondary aromas of mocha and flavors of green apples, it is a wine that should develop magnificently over the next 4–5 years.
Based on 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, with all four major red Bordeaux varieties represented, this expansive wine is big, dense and dusty in tannins and oak, but offers a soft side, too. Cherry, strawberry and a lift of citrus peel ease the power and intensity, before a chewy, dark chocolate finish. Cellar through 2021.
Based on a blend from the era of Charlemagne, Jim Clendenen's annual combination of 50% Pinot Gris, 40% Pinot Blanc and 10% Aligoté aged in all new oak shows intriguing smoked stone fruit, sea salt, buttered toast with orange marmalade and a touch of crème brûlée on the delicious nose. The palate offers burnt lemon peels, Marcona almond paste and a touch of buttercream.
Based on Cabernet Franc, this Bordeaux blend is delicious in flavor, but it's also quite tannic and needs some time in the bottle to come around. It floods the palate with blackberry, cherry and currant flavors that have been generously oaked, and finishes dry and balanced. Hold until after 2009.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this shows hard tannins and dryness despite the intensely ripe blackberries and cherries at its core. Two-thirds new French oak is not too much, adding balancing toast and wood tannins. This gorgeous wine will begin to come into its own by 2018, and should evolve for many more years.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this blend has rich, pleasant cherry, currant and mocha flavors, enhanced with sweet toasty oak. A soft, luscious wine with a lot of popular appeal, it's drinking beautifully now.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux-style blend is very rich in chocolate, blackberry and cherry fruit. New French oak adds notes of sweet toast and vanilla. That famous Napa structure of tannins and acids lends elegance to the ripeness. Drink now–2017.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux-style blend will make you take a second look at Paso Robles. It's softly tannic and enormously complex, offering waves of black cherries, currants, licorice, mocha and sweet oak. Really beautiful to drink now, and should develop bottle complexities over the next six years.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux blend is very fine, but young. It needs time to allow the aggressive tannins to resolve and for the blackberry, black currant and herb flavors to emerge. New oak adds a sweet smokiness that will become an integral part of the final wine.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux blend remains tough and tannic at more than four years of age. It's huge in blackberry, dark chocolate, currant, cassis and oak flavors, but that mouth-numbing astringency shuts it down. Clearly meant for cellaring, it should begin to come into its own by 2017.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this has a dark, penetrating color, with aromas of ripe blackberry and exotic spice. It shows firm, velvety tannins that should continue to evolve over the years.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a blend of the five classic Bordeaux varieties. The official alcohol is relatively modest, and yet the wine has superripe black currant and cassis notes that veer into chocolate-covered raisins. It's soft in tannins, but the acidity is brisk and balancing. Should age until at least 2020, but you can drink it now.
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is a blend of all five classic Bordeaux varieties. It's dry and tannic and rather austere, with herb-infused black currant, tea and oak flavors. Drink it soon.
Based on Cercial, here is a rounded, smooth wine with a delicious perfume. Warm, ripe and delicious, this shows wood hints, peaches and green herbs. Keep for a year.
Based on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this luxe rosé bubbly is delicious to drink now. It's likeable for the array of strawberry, orange and lime flavors, with that savory sparkling wine yeastiness, and the bubbles are smooth and refined. Will set off many different foods, but sushi is a definite hit.
Based on Grenache and Syrah, this is an easy, everyday sort of red wine. It's softly tannic, with a gentle mouthfeel that carries cherry jam, sweet cured tobacco and oak flavors.
Based on Loire Valley grapes, this wine is crisp and cleanly fruity. It has pleasant red berry fruit and a cool draft of acidity. Drink now.
Based on Merlot, this Bordeaux-style blend is very ripe and forward in blueberry, cherry and raspberry jam, and it finishes in a swirl of dusty baking spices. It's a good wine, if a bit rustic, with some edgy tannins and high alcohol.
Based on Merlot, this is soft and pretty simple. The flavors are of red currants, cherry jam, cola and licorice, with a smoky, caramelized sweetness from the oak.
Based on Merlot, this Right Bank-style Bordeaux blend has rich, instantly likeable flavors of cherries, currants, cocoa, green olives and violets. New oak plays a prominent role, both in toasty flavors and in wood tannins. The wine feels softly tannic in the mouth, and will be fabulous now with a great steak, but it also will develop over the next 10–12 years.
Based on Petit Verdot, this blend is tart and toasty as well as tangy and seemingly slightly sweet from its luscious black fruits. Peppery tannins and highlights of cedar and roasted meat add further interest.
Based on Petit Verdot, with the other four Bordeaux varieties blended in, this is ripe and rich in blackberries, mocha and oak. It distinguishes itself from Napa Valley—which is the unavoidable comparison—with a pleasurable earthiness and tartness, reflecting the Santa Ynez's cool climate.
Based on Petite Sirah, with small amounts of Syrah and Grenache, this is a huge, fruity, extracted wine. It's explosive in raspberry and cherry jam flavor that's so ripe and pure, yet the finish is dry. The tannins are big and firm, making this wine perfect for a deliciously grilled steak, maybe finished with a Gorgonzola cheese sauce.
Based on Syrah, this is a distinguished, upscale blend. It's bone dry and quite tannic, with crisp Central Coast acidity, but most importantly it shows deep, intricate flavors of blackberries, currants, licorice, cola and sandalwood. A very fine release from Tolosa.
Based on the local Castelão grape, this wine is aged in wood for eight months. Its ripeness and soft tannins are both fruity and lightly structured. It is full-bodied, yet has enough acidity to bring out a juicy, fruity aftertaste.
Based on the number of 84s we've assigned to Aresti's Chardonnays over the years, that seems to be where this winery has settled. This vintage is more of the same: it's light, lemony and salinic, with flavors of green melon, grapefruit and lettuce. A little dilute on the finish, but decent as a whole.
Based on the old 100% Cabs from Inglewood that aged forever, Rubicon's interpretation has the same hard, tough tannins in youth. It's not a wine you want to drink anytime soon. Bursting with cherry, blackberry, plum and vanilla flavors, it has the elegant balance needed for ageability. Best after 2010, and should hold and improve for many years after.
Based on the premier cru Chardonnay vineyards of Cuis, this soft and fresh wine is beautifully balanced. It has apple freshness, a tangy texture from minerality, and a bright and fruity aftertaste.
Based on the Roêda vineyard, this opulent, fruity wine is dense, beautifully ripe, a powerhouse of sweet fruit, figs and raisins, plum jelly and the roundest, most generous tannins. It's a wine that will show well in the next few years, but which should age magnificently.
Based on these tastings, 2000 must have been a great vintage for the eastern coast of NZ's South Island. Here's another top-notch Chard, this one loaded with buttered, toasted whole-wheat bread and vanilla custard, spiked with tropical fruit and citrus. It's rich but not heavy, with a finely etched finish and ample structure.
Based on this example and a few other informal tastings, 2014 will be a top vintage for Rieslings from Western Australia. Aromas of lime sherbet and wet stone lead into a crisply focused palate loaded with citrusy tartness that lingers on the mouthwatering finish. Drink now with shellfish, and consider holding some for up to 10 years.
Based on Tibouren, a red grape found in Provence, this is a perfumed wine that tastes of the regions herbs and lavender. Both warm and light, it has notes of spice, red plum and a delicate aftertaste.
Based on Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, this blend is a rustic, acidic and dry wine. It has flavors of red cherries, red currants, coffee and dried herbs and spice.
Based on Zinfandel, and blended with Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine explores the shabby-chic side of the street. It's a little country in the spicy, briary flavors, a little city in the refined black currants and fine tannins. A versatile, full-bodied red wine for drinking now.
Bashful, mild aromas of herbal berry fruits and mint are followed by a full, round and solid feeling palate. Flavors of blackberry, cassis and blueberry register as fairly ripe and dark, while the finish displays toasty notes, spice flavors and mild heat. This is a step up from good and basic.
Basic and a little sweet and confected, but consider the price and you should be smiling. There's some bramble and pepper to the nose, but mostly it's just ripe and full of blackberry and black plum character. Candied and almost cloying, but remains flush and happy. Good in the midlevel category.
Basic and aromatic, but not what you'd label complex. This is easygoing Gewürz with a sweet, honeyed set of flavors that offer a modicum of spice. Honeysuckle and spice notes work the finish, and as a whole it's a nice wine for simple occasions.
Basic apple and citrus aromas are dusty and straightforward. This feels citrusy and fresh, with little to no oak. Flavors of nectarine, white grapefruit and orange finish firm and fresh.
Basic apple and vanilla bean aromas carry the nose to a plump, round palate with tropical flavors and banana. Feels peachy and tastes yeasty and sweet on the finish. Highly regular as a whole.
Basic apple and yeast aromas are fairly neutral but clean. This feels fresh, fruity and simple. Lemon-lime and apple flavors finish clean as well as cleansing.
Basic apple aromas are fresh and clean. This Viura is healthy and clearly defined, but simple all the way through. Lightly pickled citrus flavors finish steady.
Basic apple aromas are stony and minerally. This feels clipped by angular acidity but also a bit oily. In terms of texture, this is slightly viscous, nutty and a touch bitter, with petrol and almond-skin notes on the finish.
Basic apple aromas start it off, with a bit of lime coming in late. The palate is a touch boring and slightly heavy, with soft bubbles and thick, conventional apple flavors that turn sweet and mealy with time. Finishes with some baked corn and herbs.
Basic apple, melon and bready aromas are fine but not distinct or complex. Ditto the palate, which feels balanced but highly basic. Simple papaya and melon flavors finish flat.
Basic apricot and peach aromas lead to melon, banana and pithy flavors. The palate is a little thick and mealy, while the finish has pretty good feel and length, but not much flavor. Slightly tropical and simple.
Basic aromas are low on fruit. This has a cutting, citric feel that's centered around juicy acidity. Sour grapefruit and tangerine flavors end with lasting citric acidity.
Basic aromas of apple and melon feed into a solid round palate with good acidity. Salty flavors of popcorn and tropical fruits finish flush, balanced and with notes of melon and papaya.
Basic aromas of fruity Chiclets gum introduce a palate with low acidity and a sense of weight and friction. This plump rosé tastes of spiced melon. The finish is low on verve and thus prematurely soft. Drink immediately for best results.
Basic aromas of spiced plum, cassis and black cherry set up a similar set of flavors, while the feel is pure, clean and easygoing. This is a no-nonsense, familiar type of mass-market Cabernet. It's generic in its approach and it doesn't vary much along the way.
Basic aromas of white fruits and pumpkin precede a sharp palate with a high malic acid content. Tart apple, gooseberry and salty flavors run long due to blazing acidity.
Basic berry and plum aromas are a bit foxy and herbal. This feels choppy and scratchy due to raw tannins. Generic black-fruit flavors are short and salty, while this ends with a clipped feel and medicinal berry flavors.
Basic black-plum aromas are as good as it gets. This is showing too much acid and not nearly enough stuffing to support it. Scratchy pie cherry and raspberry flavors finish raw and rugged.
Basic but clean plum and cherry aromas show a note of orange peel. This is quite tannic for an everyday red, while cassis, plum and prune flavors end tannic, spicy and slightly herbal.
Basic but in the best possible way. The nose is familiar, clean and inviting due to licorice, sweet black fruit and smoky aromas. Fresh in the mouth, with bright acidity pumping up berry, cassis and herbal flavors. Composed on the finish, with a high level of competence.
Basic Cabernet Sauvignon, with all its goods up front. Opens with some nice cassis aromatics but there’s just not much on the palate. The finish is short and there’s a greenness to the fruit that reflects the tremendous difficulty of the 1998 vintage. Not up to previous efforts.
Basic Chardonnay—pear, citrus and green apple balanced by vanilla and wood. Lighter, leaner and more food-friendly than many Aussie Chards, finishing with tart acidity.
Basic cherry and red plum aromas are simple and fresh. Feels tight and crisp on the tongue, with an average body and edgy flavors of strawberry and red plum. Lightly oaked and hollow on the finish, with juicy acidity.
Basic cherry aromas turn more earthy and soupy with air. A crisp pulling palate holds flavors of tomato and spiced plum, while this is mild, with nothing much to speak of on the finish.
Basic citrus and apple aromas lead to a round palate that won't stay fresh for much longer. It tastes melony and green, with lettuce flavors and a flat finish.
Basic citrus and green-leaning aromas introduce a mild palate with flavors of lime, celery and green herbs. A light, easy finish is on the watery and hollow side.
Basic citrus aromas lean towards grapefruit. This blend of 70% Godello with Treixadura and Albariño feels fresh and snappy, with bracing acidity. Briny flavors of white grapefruit and tangerine finish fresh and cleansing. Drink immediately.
Basic country-style Zin, dry and on the harsh side tannin-wise, with some green, mint and dried herb flavors to the brambly wild berry fruit. This is a gulping wine for backyard barbecues.
Basic everyday Pinot Noir. It's dry, with simple cola and cherry flavors, and a grating acidity.
Basic grapefruit and white peach aromas give way to a palate that's mostly about lemon and melon. This wine seems to have gone through far too severe a barrel regimen, and to us, popcorn and butter just don't complement most Sauvignon Blancs.
Basic melon and peach aromas become more pungent and citrusy with airing. The palate has weight and zest but lacks complexity, while the flavors are citrusy and green, much like Sauvignon Blanc, which is common for this wine based on past performance.
Basic peach and melon aromas come with lettuce and white pepper accents. The palate runs a little soft and low on acid and bubbles, while the flavor profile is sweet, with lime and apple at the core. A standard, basic Cava.
Basic plum and black cherry aromas come with hints of baking spices and cinnamon. This feels a bit high in acidity and pinchy. While a quick wash of grapy, black-fruit flavors finishes without much noise.
Basic plum aromas are woody and limited. This feels medium to full, with crispness and moderate tannins. Dry woody flavors of plum and currant finish with a freshening blast of lifting acidity.
Basic plum, raspberry and leather aromas are good but not fancy or special. This is narrow and punchy on the palate, with hard tannins and pointy acidity. Roasted red-fruit flavors come with a woody accent, while the finish is oaky, dry and short on flavor. Drink now.
Basic raspberry and plum aromas and flavors are accented by herbal, foresty notes. The palate is grabby, tannic and chunky, with herbal accents to the berry fruit flavors. Finishes with milk chocolate, acidity and tannic bite.
Basic sweet berry aromas come across like fruit punch. The palate has a standard, solid mouthfeel and generic berry flavors. A little bit medicinal on the finish, and overall it's your regular everyday red wine with not much varietal character. 50% each Sangiovese and Bonarda.
Basic Torrontés aromas of citrus, greens and saline water greet you. The wine is light-framed and rings and zings on the palate. Lemon and green apple share the palate before lime rises up on the finish. A bit clanky but gets the job done when chilled down.
Basic tropical-fruit aromas settle on pineapple. This unoaked chardonnay is melony on the palate, with ample acidity. Heavy, ripe flavors of peach, melon and pear turn towards mango on the finish.
Basic tropical aromas feature a touch of citrus. The palate is melony and chunky, with tropical fruit flavors and sweet melon. Turns pithy and bitter on the finish. Soft and rapidly losing steam.
Basic tropical aromas suggest apple and slight minerality. The feel is standard and melony, with sweet, chunky flavors of melon and green banana. Round and turning bitter on the finish, with a sugary sweetness and stalky notes.
Basic white-fruit aromas are a bit dusty and yeasty. This feels plump, soft and creamy, with bitter-leaning green melon and papaya flavors. Notes of onion and grape skins rise up on the finish. This is a mix of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Viognier.
Basic white-fruit aromas are pleasant and uncomplicated. A solid,pithy mouthfeel and flavors of peach, green banana and green herbs conclude with a detectable note of grape skins and citrus pith. This is 85% Viognier and 15% Chardonnay.
Basic white-fruit aromas get this wine going. The palate is full and mostly smooth, although maybe a touch flat. Citrus flavors include green notes of scallion and herbs, while this blanc de blancs tastes slightly bitter on the finish.
Basic, fresh, honest aromas of red-berry fruits and spice set up a wide, easygoing palate with cassis, blackberry and herbal flavors. Only on the finish does one detect some acidity and rawness. Overall this is a nice Cab for casual drinking.
Basic, minerally aromas of apple and pear are good and suggest iodine. The mouthfeel is a bit foamy, but this is also fresh and vital for a 2007 Cava. Crisp flavors of lime, orange and green herbs end similarly, with linear balance.
Basically a clean, light, simple white with a flat/soft body and pithy, dry flavors of citrus and melon rind. Shows some bitterness on the finish along with a flash of white heat. Decent at best. Drink right away.
Basically a dessert wine because it jumps beyond the off-dry line into overtly sweet. Shows pastry-filling flavors of apricots and pineapples, with rich vanilla and smoky honey overtones.
Basically a high-alcohol fruit bomb, with jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries. The heat from 15.5% alcohol gives it a chili pepper burn. Defines that style, for those who like it.
Basically characterized by gigantic fruit that leaves little to the imagination. Blackberries, cherries, cola and spicy plums explode in the mouth, and while the wine is technically dry, it's sweet in fruity essence. Oak adds caramel and vanilla.
Basically good, with jammy berry flavors, but ultimately clumsy, especially for the price. Shows overripe fruit and green tannins. Feels sharp toward the finish. Not going anywhere, so drink up.
Basilicata, the “arch” of the boot of Italy, is one of the country's most fascinating and little-known regions. Insular, superstitious and rustic, it is also a territory deeply linked to its wine growing traditions. Here's an openly aromatic white with soapy floral notes and flavors of dried apricot and honey. You'd think it was a dessert wine, but its not.
Basilisco delivers a deeply volcanic expression of Aglianico, with aromas of dried fruit, crushed granite, lead pencil and exotic spice. Thanks to 18 months of oak aging, it also shows supple softness and a velvety texture that gives this usually austere wine an easy approach overall.
Basket-pressed and aged for 10 months in 20% new oak, this estate-grown Pinot Noir has lovely berry and cherry scents and flavors. It's spicy, varietal, and brambly, with a medium-deep palate and accents of dried herbs.
Basketball star John Salley is the spokesman for this eco-minded project by Clos La Chance. The wine offers aromas of wet granite and fermenting apples. The flavors are similar, showing pear, slate and green-apple skins.
Bastianich's bright Friulano opens with tight floral aromas followed by stone fruit, apricot and honey. The wine shows a rich, pleasing texture with fresh accents of acidity and spice that keep the palate fresh.
Batailley 2006 has been mainly about tannin from its earliest stages, and this has not yet changed. What has changed is that the tannin isn't by itself any more: black plum fruit is now giving some richness. It does need to age, but the elegance and the balance are coming.
Batasiolo is a large estate that offers a long list of Piedmont wines. Elegant and bright, this pretty Barolo offers the best of the austere Nebbiolo grape at a reasonably low price. It seduces with attractive aromas and flavors of wild berry, ginger, cola and dried mint.
Battalion­s of tannin accompany ripe fruit flavors in this bold, full-bodied wine made from Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot. A supportive wrap of astringency from layers of fine tannin bolsters the rich blackberry and blueberry flavors, while flashy, spicy, smoky, new-oak accents infuse everything from the aroma to the finish.
Battle Creek has dropped its price significantly, but it still tastes like a fruity, everyday Pinot trying to compete in the big leagues. It's got light flavors of black cherry candy, very tart acids and a little zip to the finish; if there are any new barrels involved, they are currently in hiding.
Bay Area biotech scientist-turned-vintner Kristie Tacey offers a solid wine with sandalwood, pomegranate and a slight bitterness on the nose. The palate also shows pomegranate along with rhubarb, backed up by graphite minerality and brown spice throughout.
Bay leaf and eucalyptus figure prominently on the nose and palate of this wine, making for an intensely earthy, herbal experience, peppered by forest-floor notes.
Bay leaf, mint and cedar notes open this soft, nondescript wine, which is somewhat flat in tone and style. Mocha and cola notes provide flavor.
Bay leaf, tomato leaf, green peppercorns, loamy mud and a slight touch of pasilla chile show on the nose of this blend of 48% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. Peppery spices dominate the palate, including hints of Mexican mole sauce, making for a very intriguing and elegant wine.
Be careful when you look for thense wines, the labels at Aschieri are a little confusing;  a small white strip label at thumb level distinguishes the Sorano ordinaire from the special Costa Bricco. The wine, itself, is thick and quite poerful, with very ripe dark fruit, roses and earth flavors. It is beginning to show its age, and did not seem quite as fresh as the Sorano, but it proved to be more intense and extracted.
Be grateful that Stéphane Aviron is an old-vine hunter. Serious tannins and concentration from 100-year-old vines give this wine its depth and richness. It has a great potential to age with black fruits, a mineral texture and acidity. This is an impressive cru wine, full of both fruit and density. Drink from 2019.
Be prepared for a murky visual in this unusual, concentrated and complex wine. The appearance is hazy and the color brassy, but the flavors are vivid, fresh and bracing. The mouthfeel has great acidity, an unusually thick texture and fine tannins. A sense of layering and intensity develops with more sips, and lingers on the finish.
Bears a passing resemblance to some Monterey (California) Chards, combining peaches with sweet corn and bright citrus, all wrapped in a coating of toasty, vanilla-scented oak. Crisp on the finish. Drink now.
Bears a striking resemblance to blueberry pie in its aromas. Lighter than expected on the palate, before fading on the finish. A pleasant lunch mate to pâté or charcouterie.
Beatifully pétillant with small, persistent beads, this hints of tangerine and lemons skins against a backdrop of fresh mushrooms and madacamia nuts. The foam is quite mouthfilling, but lemony acidity leads to a lingering finish.
Beatrice Cointreau is a 20th generation winemaker who moved to Malibu, where she makes this blend of 98% Viognier and 2% Chardonnay. It shows delicate lemon wedges, ripe nectarine and melon, lime zest and tangerine juice on the nose. The palate combines lime peels with riper peach and pineapple notes in the midpalate.
Beaucastel's Côtes du Rhône is like a mini Châteauneuf-du-Pape in its blend of grapes and its sourcing, just outside that famous appellation. The 2009 is a very successful and flattering Coudoulet, with scents of garrigue and cherry followed by a palate that's round and lush without being at all heavy. Long and velvety on the finish.
Beaucoup d'oak. Delicious, toasty, roasty, mocha-flavored oak. But the fruit is missing in action. The color suggests that there is some light, plummy fruit underlying all the oak, but it's hiding.
Beaujolais Blanc is effectively Burgundy-type Chardonnay but from the southern neighbor Beaujolais region. This wine, with its ripe and creamy texture, has the same rich character as a Mâcon wine. It is smooth and soft from a warm vintage for white wines. Drink this wine now.
Beaujolais is an increasingly attractive source of inexpensive Chardonnay. This perfumed wine is warm with yellow fruits as well as crisper green plum and citrus flavors. With a touch of toastiness and caramel it is ripe and smooth, ready to drink now.
Beaulieu does what it's done so well for so long, producing a Cabernet that reflects real Napa character, at a good price. The wine is dry and fancy, with an elegant structure of acids and tannins housing classic black currant, herb and cedar flavors. With production of 43,000 cases, it's easy to find.
Beaumont's Hope Marguerite is always a stunner. The 2015 bottling opens with forward fynbos and baking-spice aromas that are supported by notes of red apple, orange blossom and fennel. The medium-weight mouthfeel boasts rich flavors of spiced citrus and apple pie, with waves of toasted spice and honeyed almond dancing through the long, evolving finish. It's a complex wine that should drink well through 2022.
Beautiful and appetizing notes of Cox Orange Pippin apples shine. The palate is zesty, sprightly and textured, and shows pure fruit—a combination that spells ideal refreshment. The lemony fillip on the finish is lip-smacking.
Beautiful and enticing notes of Morello cherry pervade nose and light body of this elegant Viennese Pinot Noir. There is power and depth as well as some alcoholic heat, but everything is presented honestly and with grace. On the palate the fruit gains the darker aspect of black cherry which swirls seductively around everything. A joy.
Beautiful and likeable for its dryness, crisp minerality, and the sleek, clean mouthfeel. The fruit suggests oak-inspired pears, oranges and citrons. This elegant quaff gets better as it warms in the glass. Drink now.
Beautiful and luminous, this amber-colored Recioto di Soave is generous and opulent. Its many aromatic layers include apricot, honey, toasted almond and butterscotch. It has rich sweetness and enough tingling acidity to tickle your tongue and keep the palate refreshed.
Beautiful and lush, with wildly delicious raspberry, cherry and red currant flavors. That's not all. There are fine mineral notes, the acidity is near perfect, and the tannins are soft, ripe and succulent. Balanced in alcohol and gorgeous to drink now, making it one of the best Solomon Hills Pinots ever.
Beautiful aromas lead the bouquet of this wine, a bright and fruity mix of tropical fruit, ripe pear, white melon, sweet orange and a touch of honeycomb. The well-balanced, medium-weight palate offers clean notes of melon, Anjou pear and clementine, followed by a clean, lightly spiced finish. Drink now–2016.
Beautiful aromas of creamy apple, white flower and ripe pear carry over to the bright delicious palate along with a hint of lemon zest. Crisp acidity lifts the lingering finish.
Beautiful aromas of forest floor, dusty berry and smoked meats lead to a huge, tannic but tolerable mouthful of toasty blackberry, cassis, chocolate and additional darkness. It's toasty and really long on the finish; almost syrupy but not quite. A tannic effort, like all Griñon wines.
Beautiful aromas of ripe red cherry and cherry blossoms mix with rose-laced potpourri, dust, cola and vanilla on the nose of this best-barrel bottling by Jim Clendenen, named after his daughter. Bright and zesty acidity grabs the palate's immediate attention, making the mouth water as flavors of tart cherry, rust, marinated olive and fig come forth, finishing in a very earthy way.
Beautiful aromas of rose and lavender open this wine, followed by intense mushroom, truffle and earth. Bright in acidity, a wild strawberry flavor sharpens the focus as soft, well-integrated tannins and subtle oak intermingle. The entire package finishes with a bang of crisp red-cherry fruit.
Beautiful aromatics of lavender, kirsch, carnation and soft plum lead into a mouth full of cherry skins, delicate sweet spice and pepper. Chewy tannins present a gripping texture on the palate, followed by a long, wild fruit-flavored finish.
Beautiful black-cherry aromas and flavors make this wine direct and focused. A slightly gripping texture of fine-grained tannins and good acidity keeps the mouthfeel lively. It has a wonderful sense of purity and focus.
Beautiful black-cherry fruit meets with touches of caramel and liquefied violet on the well-integrated nose of this bottling from the oldest Syrah planting in Santa Barbara County. The flavors are still a bit wound up, even four years on, but the black-currant, lavender, rosemary and charred-beef elements should rise above the wine's firm sticky tannins soon. Drink 2018–2023.
Beautiful blueberry aromas and plump black cherry and blueberry flavors lend a unique character to this ripe, fruity and full-bodied wine from interior Mendocino. Any oak accents take a back seat to the concentrated, layered and luxurious berry character that fills out the wine's broad but soft mouthfeel.
Beautiful craftsmanship is on display in this mélange of mouth-coating butterscotch, Meyer lemon and sweet citrus flavors. It's rich without being at all tiring, and the lengthy and succulent fruit flavors keep adding details, such as hints of cucumber and herb.
Beautiful crushed red cherry and lifted, polished mahogany notions mark the nose of this wine. The palate has wonderfully balanced freshness; its red cherry flavors are ripe but crunchy with a fine, firm structure for support. This has elegance, poise and delicious freshness.
Beautiful deep gold color. Intense, concentrated nose with vibrant aromas of honey, citrus marmalade and savory botrytis notes. Deliciously sweet and succulent, yet balanced by good acidity.  Packed with flavors of sweet ultra-ripe stone and tropical fruit, with honey and botrytis notes following through. Strong minerality prevails to a long, complex finish.
Beautiful density and color characterize this wine as do its layered notes of exotic spice, cardamom, curry and roasted nut. Plush, full red fruit and cherry build in intensity, especially on the palate, creating a rich wine with a firm backbone, smooth texture and dusty notes on the finish.
Beautiful focus and bright complexity characterize this northern Italian blend of Riesling, Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon. Soft layers of stone fruit, citrus and melon give the wine momentum. Enosi would pair with creamy risotto di scampi.
Beautiful fragrances of white spring flowers and yellow fruits lead off. The juicy palate offers lemon and pink grapefruit accented with mineral and aromatic herbs.
Beautiful fresh green grass aromas are backed by sweet grapefruit oil and ripe gooseberry in this attractive Sauv Blanc. Full but not fat with a hint of ripe melon lingering on the finish.
Beautiful from start to finish, but tannic, and not drinkable now, in the classic sense. The tannins are hard, and while they're very finely ground, they prevent the palate from full appreciation of the lush blackberries, black cherries, dark chocolate and herbs. Give this 100% Cabernet at least five years to begin to mellow.
Beautiful fruit flavors and a lively texture make a memorable impression in this medium-bodied, richly layered but also crisp and balanced wine. It tastes like sliced Pippin apples and Bosc pears, with pinches of vanilla and nutmeg.
Beautiful fruit intensity sets the stage and is embellished by pretty tones of honey, yellow flower and exotic fruit. This is a wonderful Vernaccia with a generous personality and a creamy feel in the mouth that imparts dense fruit and a fresh finish.
Beautiful in peach color, this blends 73% Chardonnay and 27% Pinot Noir. Dry and crisp, it tangles together vibrant flavors of grapefruit, tangerine and cherry, as aromas of rose petal whisper by. A stony mineral component adds complexity and invitation to the texture.
Beautiful in terms of intensity and consistency, this light style of Nebbiolo offers pretty aromas of forest fruit and crushed white pepper. Polished tannins bring up the rear and this wine would pair nicely with quiche or cheese flan.
Beautiful intensity surrounds this linear, compact and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas include berry fruit, balsamic notes, iron-earthy tones and chopped herbs. Nice harmony, good flavors and long persistency; this is a highly recommended wine that boasts the best of its Mediterranean roots.
Beautiful lemon-scented wine, balancing rich butter and apricot flavors with intense, pure acidity. The wine at this stage is toast and fruit, still coalescing into its long-term future.
Beautiful mineral notes of campfire and carbon scream loud and clear and act as a preface to ensuing aromas of cherry, blackberry, soy sauce, balsam notes and cola. The wine has power and great intensity and its flavors linger on the palate for many minutes. A Marc de Grazia selection, various Americna importers.
Beautiful mountain aromatics of wild flower and Granny Smith apple give this wine a youthful and superfresh personality. The finish is smooth, silky and polished.
Beautiful now, with a lovely texture and delicious flavors, this could even benefit from a couple years in the cellar. The vineyard is very fine, and Lost Canyon has a good track record with it. The flavors of cherries, black raspberries, licorice, cola and spice are ever shifting, making you want to try a second, third, fourth sip. Best now–2009, before it loses vitality.
Beautiful oak accents help light up this rich, nicely complex wine. Cinnamon, nutmeg and clove dress up the aromas, while ripe, jammy black-cherry flavors spread nicely on the palate and linger on the finish. It's light on tannins and pretty light in texture for such a flavorful wine.
Beautiful on the nose with sweet notes of honey tangerine and marmalade, Dr. Frank's 2009 Rkatsiteli is leaner than in previous vintages, but bright with fresh navel orange peels and a crisp, clean acidity. Finishes quite long with a delightful orange pith astringency.
Beautiful richness and intensity make for a very welcoming bouquet. This 50-50 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend lasts long on the palate, and boasts luscious aromas of blackberry, Maraschino cherry, tobacco and lightly toasted hazelnut. Extrasoft, velvety tannins characterize the finish.
Beautiful rose petal, orange blossom and honey flavors practically leap out of the glass as this sweet, lightly sparkling and nicely concentrated wine works its charms. It has good acidity to balance all the sugary sweetness, and a low alcohol strength.
Beautiful savoriness rises from the glass—pepper and yeast, but also something of pine and watercress. The palate swings with all of these flavors and embeds them on a rich cushion of gentle fruit: ripe yellow pear and juicy yellow plum. The white pepper always edges its way in and tempers the generosity of the fruit. This simply is gorgeous and very moreish.
Beautiful spice, oak and fruit aromas segue seamlessly into abundant, complex flavors reminiscent of cherries and chocolate in this superbly layered and velvet-textured wine. It has quite firm tannins but instead of biting they blend with the fruit acidity and full body for a sense of soft finesse. The blend is Tempranillo with 26% Petite Sirah and 23% Syrah.
Beautiful Syrah at a fair price. It's soft and velvety, with rich, complex flavors of chocolate, blackberries, succulent anise biscotti and violets, with smoky, cedary notes from oak. Drink now.
Beautiful to drink now, one of the most rewardingly plush Syrahs on the market. It's easy to like, with soft tannins and a creamy mouthfeel housing ripe, savory cherry and blueberry pie flavors. If only more Syrahs were this delicious.
Beautiful touches of oak and lemon butter meet with sea salt and tangerine pith on the nose of this appellation blend by Bibiana González Rave. The balanced acidity of the palate presents fresh lemon-lime flavors, with a touch of Meyer lemon pith, and is wrapped in a chalky texture.
Beautiful young bubbly, light and elegant, with Chardonnay flavors of peaches and limes, enriched with leesy dough and smoky spice. The texture is ultrarefined, with a very fine mousse. This is one of the best, most complex Chandon bruts in a long time.
Beautiful, aromatic notes of yellow and red apple peel on the nose acquire the slightest bitterness on the palate. The frothy, airy mousse is soft and the flavors are balanced, fruit-driven and have an almost autumnal, earthy apple tinge.
Beautiful, aromatic wine, with raspberry fruit floating above the spice and toast. This is shot through with acidity and some dense tannins, but above all it is the piercing fruit that dominates. One of Jadot's signature wines, it is wonderful, with considerable aging potential.
Beautiful, bright boysenberry and blackberry aromas meet fennel and pepper scents on the nose of this blend of 64% Grenache and 36% Syrah, which is sold primarily through the winery's Santa Clarita Valley tasting room. A lavish tannic profile decorates the lush palate, where black currant jam, licorice and clove flavors fight for attention.
Beautiful, brooding and with a bit of an edge, the Gravel Hill starts with aromas of smoke, cloves, black currant and pepper, leading into a layered, savory array of rich spice and black fruit. Elegant but assertive, the wine has a distinctive South African character, with a touch of Old World minerality and restraint.
Beautiful, classic blackberry and currant fruit in this polished Cabernet, along with a rich, tasteful coat of sweet oak. The tannins are thick but refined. The grapes come from this plateau between Napa and Sonoma counties. Tastes young and direct now, but should settle down in 3–4 years.
Beautiful, classic Green Valley Chardonnay, this shows bright, mouthwatering acidity and a steely minerality that make it savory and elegant. But there's also a deep, flavorful core of green apple butter, pineapple jam and orange-mango juice. Oak and lees aging lend a creamy, sourdough richness. Drink now.
Beautiful, irresistable Syrah, lush and sweet in fruit and oak. Soft and velvety, it offers layers of puréed raspberries, cherries, blackberries, blueberries and chocolate, with a rich edge of toasted marshmallow, gingerbread and butterscotch. Yet it's dry, with modest alcohol.
Beautifully aged, this shows a dusty, ripe quality. The bouquet is rounded out by notes of leather, resin, molasses, tobacco, dried ginger, cola and licorice. There's a tight firmness to the tannins, which have gracefully carried this wine forward over the years.
Beautifully aromatic and ripe pear notes dominate, the palate is light but shows friendly, ample fruit that makes this very appetizing and easy to drink. A perfect, refreshing, easy-drinking summer wine.
Beautifully aromatic Moscato grapes offer loads of honey, sweet peach and passionfruit on the nose. This is a delicate and feminine wine with soft, foamy bubbles capped by generous fruit flavors and natural sweetness.
Beautifully aromatic notes of ripe apple make for a most appetizing nose. The soft fizz on the palate underlines both the fruity apple purity and the bready backdrop of autolysis. A very harmonious refreshing wine that is dry, utterly light and moreish.
Beautifully aromatic notes of ripe citrus peel rise from the glass—think tangerine and juicy clementine. These flavors become more zesty on the full-flavored, concentrated but linear palate. This is not overtly aromatic as Muscat would usually suggest but more concentrated, more serious, with an alluring citrus-scented core that promises beautiful development over the years. There is great balance, lasting length and beautiful poise. Drink 2017–2025.
Beautifully aromatic notes of Williams pear on the nose give way to a far more streamlined palate of zesty grapefruit. This is slender, zippy and totally refreshing with its lemony brightness.
Beautifully aromatic with dainty white peach, apricot and grapefruit notes, Ventosa's Tocai Friulano is a luscious, fruity white perfect for casual spring entertaining. On the palate, ripe honeydew flavors are balanced by hints of freshly cut herbs and grass and a pleasant minerality.
Beautifully aromatic, this crisp, light-bodied white has flavors of lemon and Golden Delicious apple, refreshing notes complemented by warm, toasty caramel. From a dry-farmed, old-vine site planted in 1972, it delivers an abundance of balanced fruit.
Beautifully aromatic, this kabinett abounds with luscious peach and honeysuckle perfumes. On the palate, the flavors veer toward peach marmalade. It packs a punch, but stays brisk and delicate in texture, making it refreshingly easy to savor.
Beautifully aromatic, this purple-hued wine offers generous plum and black cherry flavors that are cloaked in mocha, with muscular, earthy tannins. It spent over two years in barrel (half new oak), and will benefit from a bit more bottle age for all of its rich flavors to fully integrate.
Beautifully aromatic, this weaves exotic scents of coffee, smoke, black cherry, cassis, moist earth, lead pencil, and toffee into a lush tapestry. Smooth, fruity, flavorful, soft and balanced, it finishes with lightly grainy tannins that are as supple as leather.
Beautifully balanced and elegant, this is made by one of the winemakers at Cardinale and inspired by the Loire Valley. It offers equal parts fruit, weight and minerality, tasting of fresh-squeezed lime and wet stone, with a layering of viscous vanilla. Medium-sized in terms of texture, it dances on the palate, refreshing throughout.
Beautifully balanced and layered, this reveals dried fruit, hazelnut, ginger, cola and asphalt. At the base is a solid tannic structure and a textured mouthfeel with fresh acidity.
Beautifully balanced and quietly powerful, this full-bodied wine poises plenty of berry and dark plum flavors on a smooth, sophisticated texture that carries all that fruit through the finish. It's dry, and that's a plus for pairing with most food.
Beautifully balanced between maturity and freshness, this elegant bubbly combines appetizing cherry, almond and ginger flavors with a suave texture and long finish. It achieves a level of personality and sophistication beyond simple fruitiness.
Beautifully balanced wine, rich while layered with acidity and pure pear flavors. Honey creeps in, offering a more opulent side while leaving a touch of spice from the Gelber Muskateller in the blend.
Beautifully balanced wine, showing slight age and maturity but also flavors of spice and orange marmalade. It has just the same balance between freshness and maturity as a 10-year old tawny, and gives as much pleasure.
Beautifully balanced, this conveys both rich fruit and a tense, intense minerality. Combining the two strands impeccably, it brings out tangy apple and pink grapefruit flavors and a steely, tight acidity. It's a structured wine that needs to age. Drink from 2018.
Beautifully balanced, this opens with alluring scents of wild berry, rose, baking spice and whiffs of chopped herb. Seamlessly combining ripe fruit and the firm's trademark finesse, the bright elegantly structured palate delivers juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and a hint of black tea framed in polished tannins and fresh acidity. It's already tempting but the best is yet to come. Drink 2021–2031.
Beautifully balanced, this wine is both fresh and creamy. It is still young and at its crispest, needing some time. Acidity, citrus and green plum fruits are there along with a tight, mineral texture. The future will bring out more of the wine's creamy character and soften it. Drink from 2017.
Beautifully balanced, with a creamy texture that pushes the wine into deeper and deeper layers. A mix of stone fruits, ripe citrus, brightness and purity of young vines, with .95 residual sugar that nicely rounds out the finish.
Beautifully bright aromas of pomegranate, cherry, rose petals, hibiscus and cola draw the nose deeply into this bottling by Sonja Magdevski, who's focusing almost exclusively on Grenache these days. The tannins are firmer than expected for a lighter style, carrying impressive flavors of violet, cola and rose. It's delicate but grippy.
Beautifully Burgundian, this soft, elegant and refined reserve bottling captures pretty black cherry fruit, wraps it in a wreath of sandalwood and sassafras, and lingers temptingly through an extended finish. Delicious already, it has the structure to age for a decade or longer.
Beautifully composed white-flower and citrus aromas open this Uruguayan Albariño that in many ways is similar to those from Galicia in Spain. A juicy, bright palate offers flavors of lemon and orange, while bright acidity provides backbone and length to the finish. Drink through 2018.
Beautifully composed, with power and just as much precision and pizzazz. The nose offers lightly baked berry fruit notes, leather and spice, while the palate is loaded with tobacco, exotic spices and the finest natural berry flavors Spain has to offer. Smooth, elegant, finessed and potent, with integrated tannins and bold acidity that will keep it going for at least a decade. Drink from 2012 through 2018.
Beautifully concentrated and redolent of spice and evident oak aging, this is a powerful wine from the Amalfi Cost that offers tobacco, leather, ash, slate roof, cola, vanilla, blackberry and plump cherry. The grapes used in the blend are the little-known Tintore and Piedirosso varieties native to Campania. Who knew they could taste this good?
Beautifully concentrated and rich, this wine is so dense with black fruit and dark-chocolate flavors that it's almost chewy. Blended from nine grape varieties, it has a wealth of fine-grained tannins and feels velvety in texture, while the powerful, layered flavors linger on the finish.
Beautifully concentrated aromas precede flavors of violets, pepper, sweet spice, plum and red berries. The wine is full and round in the mouth with excellent acidity and tannin. A little tight and closed right now, it should open up to be even more balanced and better integrated in 2–3 years.
Beautifully crafted and immediate in terms of its aromatic delivery, Costasera is a fruit-driven Amarone with an emphasis on ripe berry fruit and smoky layers of exotic spice and tobacco. It offers round, soft berry flavors in the mouth and excellent persistency.
Beautifully crafted to reflect a bouquet of cassis and cedar aroma, this wine blends in 6% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Girded by good bones a sturdy structure, it's bright, fresh and finessed. Drink now through 2020.
Beautifully crafted, this is racy and mineral-soaked. Mountain herbs are in abundance, along with clean, green (in a good way) berry, banana and pineapple fruit. It's balanced throughout, with excellent length and texture.
Beautifully crisp and fresh, this is a young, tightly textured wine that is already so refreshing. Its red fruit character is just a part of the mineral and tannin texture and the pure line of fragrant acidity. Very pale in color, this sophisticated wine could do with some aging. Drink from 2018.
Beautifully crisp and light, this is an ebullient wine that is full of lively red currant and tangerine fruits. There is attractive acidity, a bright aftertaste and plenty of acidity. Drink now.
Beautifully delineated fruit constitues the nose, with ripe, yellow plum playing alongside crisp, green apple. The palate layers a sonorous tone of sourdough bread with rich hints of yeast, green-apple briskness and gentle yellow plum. The notions unite with the fizzing, fine mousse. On the midpalate and the finish, the depth of this wine becomes clear: Profound and rich but in a totally slender, unassuming and convincing fashion. The finish is pure and lasting. Drink 2017–2027.
Beautifully dense, this generous, rich wine combines great fruit with a firm but sweet structure. The new wood element is still prominent, but this is now beginning to blend well with the ripe fruit. To finish, the tannins reassert themselves.
Beautifully evocative notes of apricot and peach compote appear first. They are joined by blossom honey and a floral touch that fully flourishes on the palate. They are joined by fresh, lively and spicy pink grapefruit and spice. This is full-on bursting with fruit flavors but still manages to balance its exuberance with lovely, illuminating freshness.
Beautifully feminine, with a delicate cherry-blossom perfume, this off-dry rosé sparkler blends juicy cherry and strawberry flavors, with a hint of earthy, mushroom goodness. Medium sized bubbles are brisk and tonic on the finish.
Beautifully floral in honeysuckle tones complemented by bright acidity, this white is textured and focused. Its layers of preserved lemon, lemongrass and key lime flavors are lifted by a flinty undertone and a hint of ginger on the finish.
Beautifully floral on the nose with hints of fresh apple, lemon and peach, this dry, delicately textured Riesling fills the mouth with ripe grapefruit and lemon flavors. Its sprightly and crisp in character but finishes long with a hint of white-tea astringency.
Beautifully floral, fragrant and evocative, with lush and complex aromas of honeycomb, cracker and citrus, carrying into the mouth with rich, bright, detailed flavors. Stone and mineral elements are woven throughout, and the barrel fermentation adds hints of toast.
Beautifully floral, this wine sings with red cherry and cassis notes and bright acidity. Beneath its façade of freshness and perfume lies a weighty foundation of toasted oak, forest floor, clove and dark chocolate flavors. Balanced and full-bodied, it shows the dustiness of the appellation in a measured, elegant way.
Beautifully fragrant and breezy with summer aromas of white flower, green herb and exotic fruit, here is the perfect summer sipping wine. Pair this Sauvignon with spaghetti with vongole and freshly chopped parsley.
Beautifully fragrant and intense, this bright Sauvignon Blanc lends cool-climate aromas of tangerine skin, chopped basil, yellow fruit, citrus, tomato leaf and a touch of exotic fruit. The wine's texture is creamy and rich.
Beautifully fragrant and rounded Sauvignon Blanc flavors of cut grass and green banana are tempered by richer yeast notes. The palate shows a similar balance but crisp citrus flavors and tingling freshness give extra tone. This is elegant and made for the table.
Beautifully fragrant of sweet black cherry and violet, this intensely fruity yet earthy wine is a standout within the Heart & Hands collection. Richly textured, it finishes with hints of spice, dried leaf and lingering, gentle tannins.
Beautifully fruity notes of fresh and baked apples create an inviting nose. The palate fizzes away with creamy mousse and a lovely yeasty autolytic edge reminiscent of fresh rye bread. The apple fruit brightens the entire palate and creates a rounded, harmonious and very balanced dry finish.
Beautifully fruity wine, bright, citrus and yellow fruit dominated. Packed with crisp acidity, light floral flavors and a steely texture. It's for drinking now. Screwcap.
Beautifully integrated oak and a firm structure combine in this rather tight but superbly balanced wine. It smells like black cherries and tastes like raspberries and blueberries, accented by toasted baguette, cinnamon and fresh cedar notes. The finish is long and lightly spicy. Best after 2018.
Beautifully intense and elegant, this opens with fine aromas of spice, dried fruit, cola, tar and ground licorice. It delivers a long, silky sensation in the mouth.
Beautifully lifted, almost sublimated apple and citrus fruit combine to make a perfumed, appetizing nose. That pure apple theme continues on the concentrated palate that sings with purity to leave a satisfying and honest impression of completeness. Pure and simply very delicious.
Beautifully light, a steely core wrapped in apricot, citrus and the brightest, perfumed acidity. A delicious wine, packed with fresh, pure fruit character.
Beautifully made, complex and complete, this full-bodied wine embraces seductive, spicy oak flavors, ripe fruit and a mouthfilling texture. Intricate vanilla, nutmeg and toasted baguette aromas lead to mulled plum, rhubarb and red-cherry flavors that coat the palate and linger on the finish.
Beautifully nuanced notes of white flowers, fern fronds, white peach and tart passion fruit seeds make for an intriguing play on nose and palate. These take turns in highlighting the shimmering acidity of this sleek, beautiful wine with satisfying length. This is both lively and enlivening and so very long.
Beautifully oaked, this youthful, robustly expressive wine is lemony and salty, offering a high-toned minerality that plays out as stony texture. Pear and marzipan flavors dominate, accented by vanilla and nutmeg.
Beautifully packaged and presented, this Sauvignon from the Adriatic flank of Italy offers aromas of exotic fruit, citrus and dried herbs. This expression of the variety is less vibrant than others but does offer an easy, no-fuss approach overall.
Beautifully packaged in a simple bottle with a red seal, this fresh Barbera d'Alba (aged only in stainless steel) offers bright, sharp acidity that would cut straight through butter- or cream-based dishes.
Beautifully packaged, with a 1920s-style label, this opens with whopping heat and huge chocolate-fudge and cherry syrup flavors. It would be impossible to exaggerate how big and bold this is.
Beautifully pale in color, this is serious rosé. Its rich and dry character and its red cherry and raspberry flavors are tied together by the finest acidity. Like most Bollinger Champagnes, this needs food.
Beautifully pale in color, this is the latest release of Cristal Rosé. It is ripe and full in the mouth, packed with fruit and also with intense acidity that cuts through the soft texture. There is a hint of bottle age, giving the wine a toasty complexity that brings a balance to this great wine. Drink now, although this vintage will certainly last to 2020 and beyond.
Beautifully pale pink in color with delicate shadings of peach and copper, this is an extremely elegant rosé sparkler from the Franciacorta area of northern Italy. The aromas are simple and straightforward, focusing on rose petal, cranberry and peach. The mouthfeel is crisp and easy.
Beautifully perfumed in a relatively light style, this Santenay is full of red fruits, sweet tannins and mouthwatering acidity. It has some richness, although the main character is of freshness.
Beautifully perfumed wine, its white fruits transformed into a mature, almond and herbal wine, tight and dry while showing delicious, appetite-enhancing freshness. Ready to drink now.
Beautifully perfumed wine, with fresh red fruits and some fine tannins. The wood element is perhaps too dominant for the weight of the wine. Hopefully this will subside. Give it 3–4 years.
Beautifully perfumed with ripe pommelo, orange blossoms and a spray of fresh lemon zest. A rich, luscious mouthfeel on the palate is balanced with bright grapefruit acidity and a refreshing minerality. Finishes dry with a zesty lemon rind astringency.
Beautifully perfumed, this has ripe blackberry flavors and a relatively dry character. The spirit is now well balanced, giving a backbone to the violet aromas and spicy character of this still-young LBV. It is good to drink now for its fruit, but it will improve and show more complex flavors after 2017–2018.
Beautifully perfumed, this has swathes of ripe cherry and plum, with a hint of wood aging. The balance is already well established, with a line of crisp acidity that sits behind the rich, sweet fruit. With its tannins, this needs to age for at least three years.
Beautifully perfumed, this is a ripe and structured wine. It has fine dusty tannins, intense blackberry fruits and a dark-licorice aftertaste. Acidity keeps the wine fruity and fresh although with those firm tannins, it will need time. Drink from 2027.
Beautifully perfumed, this is now maturing. It has an elegance, lightness of touch and a wonderful almond and spice character. The fruit is softened and rounded, with the acidity lending a vivid aftertaste.
Beautifully perfumed, this offers crisp sliced apples lifted by juicy acidity. Lively, mineral and still young and textured, it needs to age. Drink this complex, long-lived wine from 2018.
Beautifully perfumed, this wine is already developing well. It presents a good balance between juicy red cherry fruits and textured tannins that support the richness. It should age further, so drink from 2018.
Beautifully perfumed, with acidity, white fruits and a mineral context. The wine is layered with citrus and lime, hints of fresh pineapple acidity. Screw cap.
Beautifully poised notes of ripe red and black cherry are emblematic of the Zweigelt grape and are expressed here with conviction. Peppery spice shimmers everywhere on nose and palate. There is a grippy tannin structure and the spicy support of oak. This is fresh and solid and only just now hitting its stride. Impressive and totally moreish.
Beautifully poised, this wine strikes a balance between crisp lemon-curd acidity and intense honey and botrytis. Along with its nutmeg and marmalade flavors, it has the potential to be a powerful, wine. Drink from 2024.
Beautifully polished, this wine has an alluring blend of fruit and spice flavors and an especially lush texture. The bouquet evokes violets, raspberries and blueberries, and the palate goes deeper into blackberry and clove flavors. The balance is great because it matches its acidity with a feeling of richness and length.
Beautifully pristine on the nose and palate, with concentrated notes of fresh lemon and apple, with hints of waxy white flower and honeycomb. There's significant weight and body on the palate, amplified by notes of sweet cream, smoke and an umami-rich salinity that lingers on the finish. Fermented entirely with ambient yeasts. Drink now.
Beautifully pure and creamy notes of golden apple dominate the nose. The palate has a similarly gentle apple note that harmonizes perfectly with the light, dry body and the fine bubbles. This elegant pink sparkler will give lots of pleasure before and during a meal.
Beautifully pure apple fruit plays on nose and palate. Citrus juice frames the fruit and heightens the freshness even more. If you like a slender, supercrisp style of Riesling, the purity of this will have you hooked.
Beautifully pure cherry notes are subdued on the nose and fight against the privations of the 2014 vintage. There is lip-smacking freshness and admirable concentration on the textured palate with its velvety folds. The finish is clean and dry. Drink now through 2019.
Beautifully pure notes of crisp Cox's Orange Pippin apples shine on the nose. The palate is equally tart and wonderfully refreshing. This is a high-wire act of freshness and stony depth. You think you can almost taste the stone underneath all of these beautifully expressed apple notes that are pervaded by zesty freshness. What an invigorating, lip-smacking finish. This is lovely now but will develop. Drink now through 2030.
Beautifully pure notes of Golden Delicious apple fill the nose. The same expressive, ripe and appetizing fruitiness is also apparent on the palate which has a fine balance of ripe apple notes and crisp freshness, underpinned with a creamy bready mousse. Simply lovely and full of fruit.
Beautifully pure notions of sun-ripened mirabelle plum appear on the nose, edged with aromatic hints of ivy and herb. The palate makes the fine ripe fruit even more distinct, presenting it on a concentrated body made taut by clearly delineated, lively citrus freshness. This is pristine and beautiful, lasting and impressive. The finish shines with the expressive purity.
Beautifully rich and ripe in cherries, raspberries and sweet smoky cedar, this Pinot is fully drinkable now, although decanting will help. But it's also an ager. Shows a mushroomy dryness and herbal grounding that suggest improvement through 2013.
Beautifully rich and round, this ripe, apricot and pear flavored wine has a broad, creamy texture. With its fruit, it is ready to drink, but will improve 2017–2018.
Beautifully rich for such a lowly appellation in the Burgundy hierarchy. It is soft, open, dense, with ripeness and balancing acidity as well as flavors of pineapple and citrus pointing up the richness, just touched by wood.
Beautifully rich, this wine is ripe and full of concentrated fruit. It's generous and full bodied, while retaining tight acidity and minerality. Juicy white fruit flavor shows strongly, allied to the still-very-young acidity and texture, suggesting long life ahead. Drink from 2022.
Beautifully ripe and aromatic notions of juicy pear and red apples play on the nose. The palate is more advanced and full of lanolin and chalk notes with a rich texture but absolutely dry. This has a rich but taut, almost balm-like body with concentration. The backbone of lemony freshness pull a tight focus. Ready now, but will develop and drink well until 2020.
Beautifully ripe Cabernet dominates this dense, complex wine. It is balanced so finely, as if on the point of a pin, with black currant juice freshness set against dark tannins and powerful structure. A wine to age, and one of the successes of 2006.
Beautifully ripe notes of yellow pear, even floral overtones, dance above the glass. The palate unfolds in the same friendly, floral, light-footed fashion. Lightness, freshness and flavor are all reminiscent of a flower meadow in spring. A lovely, delicate wine with well-hidden depth.
Beautifully ripe, almost luscious notes of yellow plum complement leafy varietal notes. The palate has that same juxtaposition of ripe generosity and focused freshness but remains toned, slender and superclean throughout. Lip smacking and very refreshing.
Beautifully shaped and full bodied, this offers opulent ripe fruit aromas and rich, luxurious texture. Substantial concentrated flavors suggest dark cherry, clove and blackberry. There are no sharp edges yet the wine has firm tannins and a sense of good balance despite its weight.
Beautifully smooth, this medium-bodied and easy-drinking wine seems to melt in the mouth. Black cherry, blueberry and light smoky aromas segue to more cherry and chocolate flavors on the palate, where the texture is soft and appealing. It's a harmonious blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
Beautifully smooth, this ripe wine contrasts its rich peach and pineapple flavors with a squeezed lime note and taut acidity. With its intensely-fruity finish, this is a wine for aging.
Beautifully structured and dry, with crisp acidity framing flavors of lemongrass, green melons, figs, buttered cinnamon toast and pepper. Good price for a wine of this elegance.
Beautifully structured for aging, this wine is deep and dark in color, with rosemary and tobacco aromas and ripe black cherry, black olive and cranberry flavors. Firm tannins and good fruit acidity make it feel tangy and bright, while retaining all that flavor. Best after 2020.
Beautifully structured, this fruit-laden Cabernet shows a rich core of sweet blackberry, cherry and cassis notes that are dappled with pretty baking spices. The tannins are smooth and supple; the finish is clean and inviting.
Beautifully structured, this very limited bottling offers complex, tightly wound, finely spun red fruit. The depth and detail suggest that further cellaring will be well rewarded.
Beautifully textured wine, very creamy, the toast and butter from wood smoothing out the tight fruit texture. A fine, polished wine.
Beautifully textured, this offers attractive minerality plus tangy lemon flavors. It has good depth, rich with fruits and balanced acidity. This ripe wine can be drunk now.
Beautifully understated, this offers fruit that's well integrated with the tight texture, giving a seamless, dry while also fruity wine. Just a hint of bottle maturity adds complexity.
Beautifuly integrated oak spice and a deep well of fruit flavors combine in this richly complex and layered wine. It's medium to full in body, supple and mouthfilling in texture, and brings a great array of classic aromas to the table. Dark cherry, forest floor, cedar and a hint of wood smoke meld into a feast of flavor.
Beauty and purity emerge from the nose of this highly complex and delicate dessert wine. Aromas include pressed flowers, honey, white peach and a touch of mustiness that adds depth and dimension at the back. It's a smooth, succulent drink that delivers sweetness, but never too much of it. Gorgeous.
Beaver Creek's Lake County Zin is juicy and spicy, full of stewy red fruit and rough-hewn tannins that are thick and fragrant of oak and molasses. Definitely big though well made for its style. Time and air are its friends.
Beaver Creek makes a variation of Fairytale every vintage and this one, sourced from Napa Valley, is 41% Merlot, 36% Zinfandel and 23% Syrah, a mix that seems to work very nicely here. The wine's Zin almost tastes as if it has mountain tannins; the wine is overall herbal and earthy, ripe and sturdy with balanced fruit.
Because Cahors is an appellation only for red wine, this rosé from the Clos Triguedina vineyard is a more lowly Vin de Pays. It's fruity, showing Malbec acidity rather than tannins and some attractive berry fruits. Drink now.
Because he blends shortly after fermentation, Matt Loso's wines attain a seamless complexity early on; it's a hallmark of the winery. This beautifully crafted Claret has no rough edges; in fact, no edges at all. It is a supple, elegant wine, loaded with fruit flavors that run from berry to cherry to plum, while the oak gently adds spice and toast.
Because it comes from vines in one of the coolest parts of the Douro, high on the plateau north of the river, this is a fresh, fruity wine. It has crisp apple acidity that is made richer by touches of apricot and light spice. The wine is tight, a straight line of clean acidity. Drink from the end of 2016.
Because it is crafted from old vines from a single parcel, this wine has been released a year later than usual for Muscadet. The result is a wine that has lost its puppy acidity while gaining ripe fruit and a soft texture. The wine was aged for 18 months on lees, which also contributed to its richness. Drink this delicious wine now.
Because its color comes from the grape skins rather than from the addition of red wine, this is a dark-hued rosé Champagne. It has a tannic edge that will soften with bottle age, allowing its red berry fruit to show better, so drink from 2018.
Because of a short vintage, this Clare Valley-based winery reached down into Padthaway for fruit. The result is a broad, slightly warm wine, marked by melon, peach and apricot flavors. Drink now.
Because of its relative youth (for a wood-aged Colheita), this is almost a Late Bottled style, with ruby color and a fruity, red berry character. It meshes together, the fruit still dominant and only a few hints of wood aging apparent.
Because of such small harvests in 2013 because of hail, Alex Gambal decided to make one wine from all his premier cru parcels in Savigny-lès-Beaune. This wine is rich and ripe, full of sweet crushed strawberry flavors as well as a dry core of structure. Age this fine wine and drink from 2017.
Because of the cool Atlantic climate, the Gascogne region is home to many bright, crisp wines. This is fruity, fresh and utterly crisp while also having some hints of melon and peach flavors. A touch of attractive minerality gives the wine texture. Drink now.
Because of way too much oak, all you get are tastes of buttered toast, butterscotch and vanilla honey. Somewhere underneath is a perfectly good wine, with fine acidity and mango, pineapple and lime flavors.
Because St. Henri is aged exclusively in large, mostly neutral oak vessels, it often requires more time to come around than Shiraz aged in barrel. The 2009 is tight and reticent on the nose, while showing hints of boysenberry, black olive and roasted meat on the palate. Full bodied, rich and firm in structure, with a long, amply textured finish, it needs a few years in the cellar, and should last at least through 2030.
Because strong toast aromas show through this wine, its attractive full fruit will need time to come through. The wine, with its firm, almost red-wine structure, needs to age until 2016 before drinking.
Because this producer is in the southern Minho region, away from the northern Alvarinho vineyards, the wine is registered as Minho rather than Vinho Verde. But it has the same fine fruit and creamy richness that is typical of this grape. It could age a little longer, so wait until late 2017.
Beckmen is one of Santa Barbara's premier Rhône-style producers, and one of the few wineries that understands how to get Grenache right. This one, which has been blended with a little Syrah is just wonderful. It's not only delicious in fruits and spices, but it's balanced, with superb acidity and a bracing coating of tannin.
Beckoningly ripe, yellow pear with overtones of yellow plum unite in a very juicy, refreshing and lively white which slowly reveals layers of savory, peppery spice. The streamlined body remains toned despite its undoubted concentration. Ready now but will definitely keep.
Bedecked with a large gold fleur-de-lis on the bottle, this wine is showy in flavor too, a rich, ripe celebration of California exuberance, full bodied in cranberry, cherry, orange and blackberry fruitiness.
Bedell's aromatic white blend bursts from the glass with exuberant scents of spring blossoms, freshly cut herbs and juicy pink-grapefruit notes. The palate is ripe and fruity, but balanced by an intensely chalky minerality and vivacious lime-juice acidity. Drink now.
Bedell continues to raise the bar for Long Island Merlot with this offering. A rich, savory nose of meat, leather spice and dark berry leads into a poised balance of savory spice, rich fruit, acids and tannins. The wine has a friendly brightness about it but overall, is restrained and integrated.
Bee's wax and bitter lettuce aromas mix with oak on the nose of this shearing, high-acid Chardonnay. Flavors of lemon and sour citrus carry a bitter, pyrazinic note, while ponderous oak takes over on the finish.
Bee pollen, honey mead and lemon polish mingle in the bouquet; turning smooth and supple in the mouth. This is a rich and buttery wine, with excellent acidity behind the ripe fruit. The flavors gather strength as the wine pours over the tongue and down the back of the throat, finishing with a lick of butterscotch.
Beef jerky and smoked bacon come to mind and are followed by mellow tones of black cherry, ripe fruit and old spice. There's a sophisticated edge to this wine that helps it taste older than it actually is. It imparts flavors of sour cherry and tobacco leaf in the mouth.
Beef jerky, dried mushrooms, black pepper, pencil lead, black olive and elderberry swirl into a memorable nose on this wine by professorial vintner Wes Hagen. It's incredibly alive on the palate, delivering soy and deeply tart cranberry-cherry juice flavors, and needs until late 2015 to emerge as an even more solid sipper.
Beef teriyaki, lavender, lilacs, black pepper, smoked meat and blueberry jam combine for a dynamic nose. The palate is also very much the full Syrah package: black pepper dust, blackberry fruit, soy, charcoal, teriyaki-plum sauce, contained by both strong tannic structure and zesty acidity.
Beefy and broad, this offers up the aromas of a rich stew, with sweet tomato, peppery herb and game. Supple and soft, the flavors blend seamlessly, with the accent of savory notes rather than specific fruits.
Beefy and roasted up front, without much lift to the bouquet. The palate is marked with high acidity but also some texture, while the flavors run toward salty tomato, herb, baked berry and a hint of brown sugar. It's crisp and tangy on the finish.
Beefy aromas and flavors complement ample blackberry and cranberry notes in this firm-textured, well-balanced and nicely layered wine that's based on Zinfandel and Syrah. It's concentrated without being too full bodied, with good length on the finish.
Beefy black-fruit aromas are inviting for their accents of licorice, coconut and crushed minerals. Feels lush, layered and intense, the perfect framework for lusty blackberry, toast, mineral and espresso flavors. Long, warm and dense on the finish. Drink now through 2016; made from Malbec, Bonarda and Cab Sauvignon.
Beefy stuff for a young wine with only four months of oak aging. Still, there's bacon and generous black-fruit aromas followed by black cherry, plum, tobacco and pepper flavors. It's full, round and mouthfilling, with chocolate, coffee and a hint of herbs on the finish. Nice and complete. A no-complaints type of Tempranillo.
Beefy, savory aromas, and deep, jammy flavors give this wine a lot of personality. It is full-bodied, saturated with fruit and easygoing in texture.
Beefy, smoky aromas and a soft, sweet blend of blackberry jam and peppery spices make this medium-bodied wine very flavorful. It feels broad and velvety in texture and has enough fruit concentration for a lingering finish.
Beefy, stocky aromas also bring herb, tomato and berry notes. The palate is jumpy and slightly medicinal, with currant, tomato, herb and plum flavors running the show. Medium in size, with level tannins and a juicy, good overall feel to it.
Bees wax and smoke meld with unctuously sweet berry and yellow cherry flavors in this squarely composed semi-sweet Riesling. It's juicy and fruity on the palate, but balanced with cutting lemon acidity and a fresh, green flurry of grass and herbs on the finish.
Beeswax and acacia aromas lift out of the glass while the bright palate offers ripe pear, nectarine and grilled herb. Mineral and almond notes add interest.
Beeswax and dried chamomile flowers, baked apple and lanolin, lemon rind and a touch of honey: while these aromas are rich on the nose, they become even more bountiful on the palate, filling mouth and mind with their high-wire acrobatics that teeter between steely precision and decadent richness. This late harvest style shows off Riesling's aromatics to great effect. The finish is incredibly zesty and fresh. While this is already evolved, it shows no signs of tiredness and is sure to delight for years to come. Concentration and balance are phenomenal. The haunting aroma of lanolin gets under your skin. Drink now through 2030.
Beeswax and lanolin aromas are textbook Garnacha Blanca. This also feels waxy and grabby, with friction on the palate. Nutty, oaky, toasted white-fruit flavors suggest peach and papaya, while the finish is long, nutty and complex.
Beeswax and ripe pear appear with a subtle lift on the nose. There are evolved notes of earth and polished wood that dance above the ever-present softly sweet pear fruit. This is a slender wine rounded out with fruit that echoes softly. The finish is dry.
Beeswax, acacia and aromas of pressed yellow flower are front and center on this lively wine while the vibrant palate offer yellow peach, crisp apple and toasted almond. It's lively and balanced, with a fresh finish.
Beeswax, acacia and yellow stone fruit aromas mingle in the glass. The structured, delicious palate doles out tangerine, lime, yellow peach, lemon drop and a hint of almond. An energizing mineral note closes the tangy finish.
Beeswax, acacia honey and toasted nut aromas carry over to palate along with yellow apple and mineral. It closes on a note of bitter almond.
Beeswax, lemon-laced sour cream and a peach-blossom ripeness combine on the nose of this excellently restrained wine from a highly variable, often overripe grape. There is great energy and balance on the palate, with a light nuttiness and a touch of honey that will drink well for a few years.
Beeswax, light yellow melon, yellow peach and a touch of peach custard show on the nose of this blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Picpoul Blanc and Viognier. Lime zest and yellow pear dominate the palate, which is light, fresh, intriguingly textured and full of acidic sizzle.
Beeswax, mature orchard fruit and yellow flower aromas emerge from the glass. The refreshing palate offers lemon drop, peach and pear alongside tangy acidity. A grapefruit note closes the finish.
Beeswax, orchard fruit and white stone-fruit aromas meld together in the glass. The rounded palate offers yellow peach, lemon drop and white almond alongside bright acidity. It closes on a tangy citrus note.
Beeswax, yellow apple skin and acacia aromas lead the nose. The linear palate shows Kaiser pear, citrus zest, almond, toast and vanilla. A honeyed mineral note closes the finish.
Beeswax, yellow pear peel and yeasty notes for now dominate nose and palate while pepper and fruit still slumber. The wonderfully sleek mouthfeel with real phenolic grip and zesty finish also hints at tropical largesse of pineapple and mango. Do not touch before 2017.
Beet and dark cranberry juice make for a very deep red-fruit entry to this bottling that is lifted by bay leaf, thyme and anise on the nose. It's easy, clean and refreshing in a lighter style on the sip, with dried strawberry and red plum spiced up by star anise and fennel.
Beet and plum juice aromas meet with hearty clove and juniper spice on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard located 16 miles from the Pacific Ocean. It's a dark and deep expression on the sip, with blackberry, wet earth and pine-forest flavors, proving quite muscular and manly, with a menthol lift on the finish.
Beet juice, cinnamon, clove and turned earth show on the nose of this bottling from Malibu-based winemaker Jim Palmer. The palate offers dusty leather, raspberry fruit, dried herbs and a chalky texture, cut by moderate acidity.
Beet juice, dense pomegranate, root beer, turned earth, fire-roasted meats and toasted sagebrush aromas power the action-packed nose on this bottling by one of the appellation's bigger outfits. The palate combines juicy elderberry and bramble fruit with cedar, dried mint and wild herbs, finishing on a menthol-like sensation, with decent grip for a Pinot.
Beet root and black raspberry scents and flavors get this wine rolling, with a sliver of licorice peeking through. Subtle hints of vanilla, cola and café latté add further interest. Picked at less than two tons per acre, it has impressive ripeness despite the low alcohol.
Beet root and cherry flavors mixed with some barnyard scents lead into a modestly ripe wine with strong herbal components. The finish takes a turn into bitterness.
Beets, mint and cola mark the aromas of this robust offering from the southern part of the state. It’s rich and corpulent—almost Port-like in its dimensions—and although it lacks a bit of elegance, it certainly possesses plenty of mouth-filling flavor.
Befitting the historic nature of the estate, this is wonderfully structured and aristocratic auslese, featuring apple, apricot and citrus seamlessly fastened to a bedrock of firm acidity. Finishes long, with a hint of citrus rind. Should easily age 20 years or more.
Begali's base Valpolicella Classico delivers an immediate rush of candied cherry and root beer. It's a simple, one-dimensional wine with an easy, crisp mouthfeel.
Begali's wines really do offer their own unique personality and style. This wine is embellished by slightly green aromas of bay leaf and rosemary oil that add brightness and buoyancy. The flavors are complex, long lasting and include notes of soft spice, ripe fruit and sweet tobacco.
Beginning to dry out with age, with the berry flavors fading to reveal alcohol and herbs. Drink up.
Beginning to mature, this rich wine with its beautiful honey and spice flavors is, as always with Petit Manseng, finely balanced with acidity. The texture is smooth and opulent, its mango fruit cut with lemon-like tang. Drink from 2018.
Beginning to round out its youthful edges, the BlackCap (so named for the native Oregon mushroom, berry and bird) offers pretty pie-cherry fruit, savory herbs and silky tannins. There's still some phenolic bite to the finish, suggesting that it can continue to smooth out over the next few years.
Beginning with a velvety texture and inviting bouquet of strawberry and rose, this classic blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot is grown on the winery's 845-acre estate atop Spring Mountain. Kirsch, black pepper and chocolate combine atop a smooth, integrated palate that's elegant from start to finish, the oak tempered to good effect. Drink now through 2027.
Begins beautifully with a hint of honey, white flowers and fruit. The palate shows good acidity and the finish is longer than the other Arneis tasted. The problem is that within five minutes, a slightly sour note could be detected, which although not particularly strong never really disappeared. Overall a very nice wine that could have been very special.
Begins with a sweet marshmallow creaminess on the nose, which is followed by a firm, tanninc palate with snappy cherry and raspberry flavors. Clean and easy to understand, but in the end it's a very regular wine.
Begins with muddled, murky, syrupy aromas of caramel and berries. The palate is more high-toned, with lemony accents to tomato, baked fruit and savory flavors. Finishes solid albeit lightly damp and bitter. Comes around with time but always seems a bit murky.
Begins with weight and yeasty, bready, white fruit aromas. The palate is round and full, with lime, apple and kiwi flavors. Zesty and proper on the finish, with good length and clarity. Solid and nice throughout.
Beguiling aromas of corn silk, vanilla, barrel spice and malolactic notes lead to a palate that is elegant in style. It dances lightly.
Beguiling aromas of honeysuckle, lime, peach and baking spices are followed by palate-coating stone-fruit flavors. It shows an impeccable sense of balance.
Beguiling in cedar, black cherry and black tea, this inviting Cab is made by consulting winemaker Aaron Pott with 2% Petit Verdot blended in, noticeable in its dark, inky color. The tannins are well-managed, present but softened, a taste of dark chocolate and coffee subtly hinted at through the finish.
Beguiling scents of fragrant berry, rose petal, baking spice, new leather and aromatic herbs swirl around in the glass. The vibrant palate is loaded with finesse, doling out morello cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and star anise, while polished tannins and bright acidity provide impeccable balance. It's just gorgeous and while it's already accessible, it also shows midterm aging potential.
Beguiling streaks of red cherry surround a light, spicy, food-friendly core that's well balanced and integrated, the oak and tannin elegantly respectful of the red fruit. It offers medium weight amid the smoothness.
Beguiling, concentrated and suave, this classically styled Barolo opens with lavender, cherry, almond and anise, which slide in to blackberry brandy flavors on the palate. Long finish. Intense and delicious from start to finish; a real stunner. Drink now or cellar 5–7 years.
Behind the aromas of peach and apricot, you'll get distant shadings of toasted nut that that recall honey and almond. The wine is simple, refreshing and genuine and its texture is lean and easy-drinking.
Behind the dark tannins, a huge mouthful of fruit is waiting to come out. The wine has weight, showing layers of wood aging and dark tannins. It's concentrated and needs to age. Drink from 2017.
Behind the main slope of the Côte de Beaune, Saint-Romain produces some delicious white wines that have extra freshness. This wine, all fruit and light mineral texture, offers apricot and peach flavors that are cut with acidity. The aftertaste adds a more mineral element. Drink from 2016.
Behind the main vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, this village makes some delicious wines, both red and white. This village wine, full of fruit, also has wood-aging flavors and firm spicy tannins. It is coming together well and will be ready to drink from 2020.
Behind the tannins, the fruit is beginning to broaden out and become rich. An attractive juicy character comes from the fresh black currant and berry fruits. Give this wine until 2016 and it will be ready to drink. Consulting oenologue Claude Gaudin manages this Médoc region estate.
Behind those characteristic aromas of black stone, resin and tar, this hearty Taurasi delivers a touch of raw fruit or black cherry. Some muddled spice notes appear and the wine delivers more used leather and dried tobacco on the close.
Being 100% varietal, aromas of barrel spice are prominent at present, followed by black fruit. The fruit flavors are sweet but still lighter in style, with lightly grainy tannins backing them up. It's surprisingly restrained considering the warmth of the vintage and region.
Being 100% varietal, the aromas of black currant, boysenberry, graphite and cherry are piercing and pure. The palate puts and emphasis on texture, showing layers of lightly jammy dark fruit flavors that pique the interest, with a long finish only upping the enjoyment.
Being a wood-aged Moscatel de Setúbal, this has wonderful blend of bitter marmalade and intense honey flavors. It has been matured in old wood, some used before with Armagnac brandy, and has developed this fine nutty character. The wine has been bottled to be drunk now.
Being based in the Northern Rhône, Colombo's Côtes-du-Rhône always incorporates a decent proportion of Syrah, 30% in this vintage. There's 10% Mourvèdre, with the other 60% being Grenache. It's medium to full in body, with supple tannins and superripe plum and chocolate flavors that pick up hints of raisin. Drink now.
Bel-Air is owned by the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages in Pauillac, and the pedigree of the winemaking shows. A rich, almost opulent wine, tempered with tannins. Flavors of dark black figs, herbs and wood come together harmoniously. It has a tense edge of tannin that promises aging.
Belcanto di Bellussi is a soapy, fragrant expression of Prosecco with frothy cream and pretty aromas of fruity pulp and peach. This sparkler has a creamy mouthfeel and a generous sweet spot in the form of honey and melon.
Belcier is on the slope that continues east from Saint-Émilion. With this provenance, this single vineyard wine offers rich Merlot to go with the more structured Cabernet fruit. It has weight, the wood well judged and supporting the ripe fruit flavors. Age this wine for at least five years.
Belcore, a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot, offers a touch of sour cherry and raw fruit backed by supple spice and leather. There's a warm, earthy feel to the finish.
Believed to be a clone of Grenache, Cannonau is Sardinia’s workhorse grape, accounting for 20% of the island’s total production. This version is a pleasant everyday wine; the light ruby color belies the inviting cherry-and-earth flavor package and the 13.5% alcohol.
Bell's basic Cabernet often is a good buy, and the 2005 certainly falls into that category. It shows polished Napa structure, with savory cassis and cedar flavors. Drink now through 2011.
Bell-pepper scents are cut by cracked pepper and blackberry on the nose of this bottling. The mouthfeel is soft, with black cherry and plum-juice flavors enhanced by peppery spices.
Bell pepper and cactus aromas announce greenness. It's also dilute in texture, with cucumber and arugula flavors. Not only is this high on pyrazines, it's past its prime.
Bell pepper and citrus aromas are limited in scope. The palate feels acidic, with quick-hitting flavors of green herbs, bell pepper and tropical fruits. Pyrazine-based flavors of bell pepper and bitter herbs push the finish.
Bell pepper and citrus aromas control the nose on this racy wine that clocks in at only 12% abv. An alert, tangy palate matches the nose, while this tastes of lemon-lime, tart green apple and sea brine. A lean, high-acid finish stops short of tasting green.
Bell pepper and sharp red fruit aromas provide a shaky start, which is followed by cranberry, tart cherry and other pointed flavors. The feel is racy and tight, with gritty acids. Airing does improve it somewhat. Tasted twice; this is a review of the better bottle. Cabernet, Merlot, Cab Franc and Carmenère is the blend. From Brazil.
Bell pepper and tomato aromas, combined with hot and burnt notes, don't make for a very inviting nose. The palate is acidic, leaving tart plum and cranberry flavors in front of an oaky, citrusy finish. Rough and basic.
Bell pepper, green bean and asparagus aromas come with a touch of melon but nothing more fruity than that. A citrusy, round palate houses bitter, stretched flavors of green fruits and sulfur. Green herbs and citrus peel are the finishing notes on this grassy, green SB.
Bell pepper, jalapeño and brined bean aromas straddle the line between snappy/citrusy and vegetal. This has a round palate with weight and punch. Flavors of grapefruit, tangerine, lime and bell pepper hint at vegetal, while the finish is plump and feels fresh.
Bell peppers and green herbs as well as dark tannins are the main characters of this very dry, bitter wine.
Bella's only 2010 Zinfandel from the Russian River Valley is high in alcohol, but manages somehow to maintain balance. It's softly tannic and incredibly rich in chocolate, mulberry jam, cassis liqueur, prune and peppery-spice flavors. Delicious, but heady.
Bella's quartet of new 2009 Zinfandels is their best ever. This small-production wine, a best-of-barrels selection from their various vineyards, is softly tannic and silky, and its flavors of wild berry, currant, cola, spice and sandalwood should be enjoyed now. The mouthfeel is utterly luxurious, offering the best elements of a Napa Valley cult Cabernet, with the briary, rustically chic qualities of Zinfandel.
Bella has a spotty record with this wine. The '05, from a cooler vintage, shows a Northern Rhône dryness and peppery taste, with good blackberry and currant flavors. But the tannins are very hard, almost old-fashioned in the way they shut the palate down.
Bella Luna has been Churchill's most consistently successful Pinot Noir. The 2011, low in production, is concentrated in raspberries, cherries and pomegranates, uplifted by acidity and with a sweet jacket of toasty oak. Drink now–2019.
Bella Vetta's 2005 was very good. This 2006 is easily on a par. It's a ripe, plush wine, filled with blackberry, currant and sweet oak flavors with a savory tease of leather that may be a touch of brett, but it acts as a spice. And look how modern techniques have tamed those fierce Howell Mountain tannins. The mouthfeel is sheer velvet.
Bella Vida replaces the Abbey Ridge bottling and does so with pizzazz. The best of the 2011 releases, this is a beautiful expression of grapes grown on red clay soils, with refined, deeply penetrating flavors of ripe raspberries. Smooth, supple and long, with uncommon purity, it finishes with a kiss of chocolate from 18 months in one-quarter new oak barrels.
Bellangelo showcases Cabernet Franc's varietal character particularly well with this rosé. Ripe morello cherry and cranberry flavors are penetrating and pristine, but flecked with hints of briar patch and forest floor that lend complexity and nuance. It's a zesty, particularly food-friendly pick.
Bellavista's Cuvée Brut is a wine that delivers consistent and delicious results year after year. It's a sure bet because of its delicately toasted notes that are enhanced by plenty of ripe fruit and citrus. It also shows extreme finesse and elegance, with a bright and cheerful personality.
Bellavista's Gran Cuvée Brut offers a pretty floral fragrance of acacia, orange blossom and beeswax. The creamy palate delivers intense honey flavors, along with citrus and toasted almond nuances. It finishes on a crisp, dry note.
Belle-Vue changed its usual blend for 2012 to emphasize the ripe Cabernet Sauvignon. That gives a fresh black currant-flavored wine that is layered with ripe tannins and acidity. Fruity, it will develop quickly, so drink from 2017.
Bellezza (100% Sangiovese that ages 16 months in oak) is a modern and succulent wine with a supple feel and very good density. Generous layers of spice, black pepper and wet earth back aromas of black currant and cherry. Drink this wine with stewed meats and potatoes au gratin.
Bellezza is indeed a beautiful expression of Sangiovese (aged in oak) that peels back layer after layer with cherry, spice, leather and tobacco aromas. The fruit-driven finish is long, smooth and satisfying.
Bellezza is now labeled Chianti Classico (through 2007 it was labeled only as Toscana), based on Sangiovese grapes that deliver aromas of cherry, toasted almond, chocolate, rum cake and exotic spice. The wine is long, fresh and intense in the mouth and would pair well with steak and grilled porcini mushrooms.
Bellini's easygoing Chianti opens with dried spice, white pepper and red fruit, following to the palate with fresh acidity and a lean consistency. Pair this wine with a heaping plate of pasta and tomato sauce.
Bellissima Rossa is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec. The Cabernet Sauvignon is muscular and taut; blackberry and cassis, mineral and smoke come up as aromas, then follow as flavors. Good legs show the weight of the wine, which hits the palate tight and shows a bit of chalky acid, then opens into more lush milk chocolate barrel flavors.
Bellwether's single-vineyard Pinot stands out for its gorgeously lifted, blossomy perfume. The palate is a cherry bomb of flavor, yet elegantly framed by a razor's edge of acidity and soft, feathery tannins. Drinks beautifully now, but will be a joy to mature from 2020–2025.
Belnero is a Sangiovese-based wine (with a tiny percentage of outside grapes) that shows loads of Montalcino typicity and elegance. If the rules governing Rosso di Montalcino are changed, those new wines might resemble Belnero.
Belonging to the Stefani family for several generations, this estate has produced a tangy, zesty wine, textured and bright with red currant fruit flavors. It is so fresh and crisp with its lively, tight aftertaste.
Ben Lomond is a newish appellation in the cooler, western part the Santa Cruz Mountains (the eastern part favors Cabernet Sauvignon). And by the evidence of this luscious wine, it's a great place for Chardonnay. With plenty of winemaker bells and whistles, it's rich and complex, showing tropical fruit, tangerine, lemon custard, honey, buttered toast and cinnamon flavors, brightened with mouthwatering acidity.
Ben Ryé is a glowing example of Sicilian pride, and you can understand why. Beautifully integrated with deep aromas of orange zest, honey, chestnut, molasses and dried apricot, the wine is a true incarnation of lavish decadence. The mouthfeel delivers impressive intensity and concentration of flavors.
Ben Ryé is always a fabulous dessert wine from Pantelleria (an island off the coast of Sicily) and this expression shows beautiful liveliness and personality. You'll get aromas of stone fruit, apricot, honey, almond paste and even a spicy touch of fresh ginger. It feels smooth, rich and totally decadent.
Bendigo is a warm subregion of Central Otago, and this wine shows the plush, creamy texture of superripe fruit. The wine is smoky and briary, marrying black cherry and mocha notes in harmonious complexity, and ending lush and long. Drink it now and over the next few years.
Beneath the come-hither packaging and name, this Zin offers velvety tannins and smoky fruit and spice, finishing with a powerful hit of alcohol and leathery cedar.
Beneath the surface tannins is great Merlot fruit, very ripe and full-bodied, a powerhouse of flavors. The depth and complexity of the wine is all there, along with a dark core of dryness. A wine for long-term aging.
Benefiting from the heat of 2003, here is a wine that is almost Burgundian in its richness. There is a hint of toast, of ripe apricots and a smooth, creamy texture. It's certainly atypical, even though there is a finishing streak of acidity.
Benefiting from the ripe 2009 fruit, this shows the attractive character of many value Bordeaux wines in this year. It has red plum fruits, touched with raisins along with toast, acidity and a balance of tannins.
Benefiting from the ripe 2009 vintage, the wine shows more ripe fruit than is usual from the Hautes-Côtes. It has rich strawberry flavor along with acidity. The soft tannins add a light sense of structure.
Benefiting from the ripe 2009 vintage, this is an intense and concentrated wine, full of jammy plum and red berry flavors, spiced with licorice and pepper. The wine has good concentration. Ready to drink now or age 3–5 years.
Benefits of bottle aging show well in this late release by Shaw. Clean and minerally with a shower of freshly squeezed lemon and honeysuckle on the nose, this almost dry Riesling is lush with honey and white peaches on the palate. There's a sleek backbone of steel and slate that adds elegance to a lingering white tea finish.
Benefitting from 11 months in 40% new French oak, this opens with aromas of crushed raspberries, leading into full, round fruit flavors across the midpalate. It runs into some slightly chewy tannins, which is one of the differences between Southern Oregon and Willamette Valley Pinots.
Benefizium Porer comes off as a very easy- drinking Pinot Grigio for a stress-free summertime afternoon. The wine is fragrant of exotic fruit, citrus and white mineral, and it has a watery consistency that is backed by a much-needed touch of acidity.
Benessere's Sangiovese tests the limits of the variety's ability to thrive in Napa Valley, with good results year after year. The '05 is dry and intricate, with ripe, complex flavors of cherries with the bitter skins and red currants. Refined tannins provide structural integrity. Best now through 2011.
Benessere has stuck with Sangiovese for many years. This is rich and fruity, and it offers jammy red-fruit, currant and chocolate flavors. Its smooth tannins and softness make it drinkable now.
Benito Ferrara delivers a very nice Fiano di Avellino that lives up to the excellent reputation of the wine thanks to its precise mineral tones and background notes of stone fruit and honeysuckle. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
Benjamin Silver offers a very traditional tar and roses nose on this solid wine, with extra aromas of leather, iron, pipe smoke, iodine and beef jerky. The palate shows white pepper, roasted fennel and tight pomegranate fruit, with some gaminess and tobacco leaf, as well as grippy tannins that will continue to soften with time.
Benjamin Silver quietly makes great stuff out of a small warehouse on Santa Barbara's Eastside, including this Syrah that's boosted by pinches of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Viognier. Beautiful aromas of roasted pork in a blackberry-licorice reduction sauce pick up a bit of grape candy before hitting the palate with black pepper, blueberries and solid tannins. It's fun but serious.
Bennett Valley is a cooler section of Sonoma County, and maybe the cool vintage was just too much. This wine isn't quite ripe.It's bone dry, acidic and tannic, and the fruit is herbal.
Bennett Valley is a little appellation in Sonoma County and it's been known as a good source of nuanced Merlot since Matanzas Creek specialized in the variety. This new bottling recalls those glory days. It's a fine Merlot, dry and silky and elegant, with ripe flavors of black and red cherries, chocolate and herbs. Try as a softer, gentler version to Cabernet.
Benton-Lane makes quite a lot of Pinot Gris, stainless-steel fermented and whole cluster pressed, yielding a soft, fragrant, fruity wine with plenty of fresh pear flavor. It flattens out broadly across the palate, full-bodied and lightly spicy. Just a bit more focus would really elevate this wine to the top ranks.
Benton Lane's reliable, stainless-steel fermented Pinot Gris does not go through malolactic fermentation. The wine is fresh and scented with citrus, grapefruit and wintergreen. Crisp acids lift the palate and add hints of spicy pear. Refreshing and elegant.
Benuara—a blend of Nero d'Avola (70%) and Syrah (30%)—is characterized by distinct aromas of soy sauce, root beer and Chinese spice. The wine offers soft, smooth texture and polished tannins, but its Asian profile suggests a pairing with hearty Indian or Thai curries.
Beresan made no Carmenère in 2011, and this new vintage is the first to be sourced from the recently-planted Summit View vineyard. It's quite pretty, with forward fruit flavors of strawberry and cherry. Aging for 21 months in 20% new oak gives it a toasty frame and puts some grip in the tannins. Drink over the next few years, while it retains its youthful charms.
Bergamot and lemon, grapefruit and tangerine: students of citriculture would find much to explore—perfumers too. As a drinker you just want to dive into this inviting, fragrant pool of refreshment. There is a powdery edge too, and quite some texture, despite the most slender of bodies. This represents depth rather than power and is a ticket straight to a citrussy Riesling heaven. With age this will get even better.
Bergamot leaf and sea breezes are conjured up in this streamlined, sleek and ultradry Riesling. This is fresh but sunny, ripe but svelte. Just what you need on a hot summer day. The lip-smacking finish keeps you coming back for more.
Bergevin's Bordeaux blend is almost jet black in color, thick with liquorous candied cherry and coffee scents. It's mostly Wahluke Slope (Stone Tree vineyard) fruit, and has the power to show for it. Black fruits, tar, coffee liqueur, chocolate, whiffs of tobacco make for a complex and compact wine that will reward cellaring.
Bergevin Lane's wines show a rich mix of herbal and earth flavors, with ripe but not overly sweet fruit. This 100% varietal Syrah is herbaceous and aromatic, with rich scents that mix the purple fruits with intimations of herb, chocolate and cracker. It's elegant and tight, and should be decanted for several hours. Once it breathes open, it's perfectly balanced and drinkable right now.
Bergfeld is named for the winery's historic owner and the land he originally planted around the winery in 1873. Given to old-world airs, the wine is chalky in black fruit, tobacco and mocha, as well as soft, substantial tannins. Generous in juiciness and structure, it has an herbal quality on the finish.
Bergström's lineup of Pinot Noir begins where many other wineries finish. This complex, earthy wine shows its fair share of herb and even a hint of stem, but those are offset by crisp, well-defined flavors of cranberry, cherry and spice. A fine example of this winery's house style.
Bergström's Sigrid is one of the finest Chardonnays made in Oregon. Racy and refined, it shows Burgundian finesse, toast and acidity. As in other top tier wines from the Northwest, the fruit has a certain vibrancy that shouts “New World.” Peach, apple and pear flavors abound.
Bergström has made a Shea designate since 2003, intent on showcasing a “pretty” style of the vineyard. Here are lovely aromatics, with grape jelly, rose petals and plum in the nose, and a complex run of red fruits in the mouth. Streaks of cola, brown sugar and more come up in a generous finish.
Beringer reaches into the cool, southerly Oak Knoll district of Napa Valley for this dry Chardonnay, which shows tart flavors of lemons, apples, limes and minerals. It's an elegant Chard, light but complex, with beautiful acidity and just a touch of oak. Dungeness crab with buttered sourdough bread would be a perfect pairing.
Berlucchi '61 Rosé is a fun and lively sparkler with berry, tropical fruit and toasted bread aromas. The palate delivers strawberry, pineapple and pastry notes and a dry walnut finish.
Bernard Larrat's wine is dry at this stage, although with hints of ripe black-currant fruit and acidity. The potential is there with juicy flavors and fruitiness already developing well. Drink from 2019.
Bernard Magrez's wine empire seems to have no limits, as he's recently expended into this relatively obscure little section of the Southern Rhône known for its white wines. This medium- to full-bodied blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Viognier and Roussanne features modest pear and pineapple flavors and a refreshing zing of citrus zest on the finish. Drink now.
Bernardot is a bold and plump expression of Barbaresco with soft, ripe tannins and expressive aromatic layers of cherry, plum, prune and new leather. The elegance and detailed nature of Nebbiolo shines through but the emphasis here is on opulence and richness overall.
Bernardus has been doing a great job with this bottling, while keeping the price affordable. It's an upscale, vibrant wine of great charm and elegance. Showing keen Arroyo Seco acidity, it offers a powerhouse punch of figs, dates, pineapples, Meyer lemons, honseysuckle and peppery spice.
Beronia has blended modern and traditional touches to create a fine gran reserva with spice, vanilla, coconut, tobacco and dried berry aromas. The palate offers ripe tannins and kick, while the flavor profile is earthy, with mocha, coffee, chocolate and dried berry flavors. A long, lightly toasted and chocolaty finish provides a fitting end to an excellent wine. Best from 2015–2022.
Berries are the name of the game in this rich, forward Syrah. Cherries, raspberries, mulberries and spicier, gamier kinds of wild berries mark the flavors, which are lifted by sweet, smoky oak. The mouthfeel is pure and velvety, courtesy of ripely soft tannins. A fashionable wine to drink now, especially with lamb.
Berries, citrus, even suggestions of tropical fruits (papaya, guava) anchor this supple wine. It's a wine that invites leisurely exploration, nuanced and refined, with balance and body enough to age for up to a decade.
Berries, sandalwood and cigar-box aromas lead to lavish fruit flavors like blackberry and raspberry. The multi-layered texture is both firm and velvety at the same time. Well supported by integrated tannins, this wine will pair well now with big proteins and will age easily through 2019.
Berry and black-plum aromas are dense. This wine from silt (limo) soils feels a bit tannic and rugged. Flavors of plum and berry fruits are spicy, while the finish is savory tasting and long, with moderate complexity. Drink through 2021.
Berry and black-plum aromas come with a hint of green. This feels full, solid and grabby, while herbal plum and berry flavors more or less follow the nose. On the finish, this southerly Malbec tastes of carob, mint and berry fruits.
Berry and black plum aromas are oaky and welcoming, with a hint of green herbs poking through. This feels full, round and friendly, with chunky weight and soft tannins. Creamy flavors of blackberry and dark plum  come with a saline note, while the finish slides away easily.
Berry and black plum aromas build the nose. It's bold but a little acidic, with medium intensity and weight supporting snappy flavors of wild blackberry and slightly tart plum. The finish is quick and juicy.
Berry and cassis aromas are a bit raisiny and steer clear of the varietal-based green that Carmenère is known for. This feels ripe and meaty, with ample freshness. Flavors of olive, carob, pepper and black fruits finish clean and a touch hot.
Berry and cassis aromas are spicy and powerful, with integrated oak in support. This solid, tough wine features rugged but fair tannins. Savory berry, baked notes, leather and herbal flavors are very Cabernet-ish, while the finish is dry, firm and tannic. Age this until 2017–2022, or decant if drinking now.
Berry and cassis aromas blend with oaky scents to form a solid nose. This feels grabby and resiny, with moderate tannins. Minty black-fruit flavors are woody, while the finish tastes herbal and oaky, with meaty berry notes.
Berry and cassis aromas turn more saucy with airing. This has a sticky mouthfeel with protruding acids, while flavors of plum and citrus finish short. This is good if you're looking for the basics.
Berry and cherry aromas are friendly, clean and offer spice accents. This is full, ripe and tannic, with blackberry, dark spice and chocolaty flavors. Toasty menthol and hard spice notes on the finish confirm intensity and overall quality.
Berry and cherry aromas are fruity and clean. This blend of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah is big on the palate but also tannic, acidic and fierce. Black plum, blackberry and tomato flavors finish crisp and firm.
Berry and cherry aromas are reserved. This wine feels plump, with slightly grating tannins. Roasted berry flavors show a hint of wood grain, while the finish is insignificant.
Berry and cherry aromas are surprisingly sturdy and clean. Freshness is maintained on the palate, which is honest enough to offer modest tannic bite. Lightly spiced plum and raspberry flavors change little on an easy finish.
Berry and cherry aromas register as soupy and flat. Like the nose, this feels flat, chewy and dense. Stewed, rubbery prunes and plums finish with a fig-like note and rubbery tannins.
Berry and cinnamon aromas are lightly woody and spicy. This is tannic but not mean or fierce. Flavors of oaky plum and berry fruits turn savory in front of a finish with a dry, snappy, slightly raw feel. Given that 2013 was a cold vintage, this Crianza deserves praise.
Berry and currant aromas are jumpy and fruity in nature, while in the mouth, creamy oak creates a sticky feel. Candied, barrel-driven flavors of vanilla and clove outlast the wine's fruit content on the finish.
Berry and exotic notes of cinnamon and leather combine forces with briny clam-shell scents on the nose of this Ribeira Sacra blend that's 85% Mencía and the rest Caino and Bastardo. A high-acid palate yields tart, juicy flavors of red plum and cranberry, while the finish is power-charged. Drink through 2022.
Berry and lemon-peel aromas come with a note of plastic. This feels narrow and acidic, and thus scraping. Tart plum and spice flavors lead to an herbal high-acid palate that leaves a sour lasting impression.
Berry and mild leafy aromas blend well on a controlled, earthy nose. This is stocky in feel, with good balance and roasted, herbal flavors of berry fruits. Pasty oak, mild green notes and a solid mouthfeel define the finish on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Carmenère and Cabernet Franc.
Berry and plum aromas are a touch oaky, foresty and spicy. This is a tight, drawing Tempranillo with tannic bite but also fruit in reserve. Flavors of raspberry and plum are more generic than elevated, while a toasty, slightly bitter finish with mild heat brings it home.
Berry and plum aromas are clean and composed. The wine feels juicy, pure and medium to full in body. Flavors of cherry and plum are spiced up with a white pepper note, while oaky spice and dusty pepper flavors create a lasting, long finish.
Berry and plum aromas are clean and true for Rioja, with notes of fall leaves and earth. A juicy, taut palate features earthy flavors of plum and berry, while loam and a touch of ripe raisin add weight and flavor to the  finish. Drink through 2018.
Berry and plum aromas are concentrated but also medicinal. This has syrupy weight to the palate and a sticky mouthfeel. Flavors of baked berry, candied cherry, oak and cough medicine finish jammy, woody and a bit hot.
Berry and plum aromas are creamy and spicy while hinting at prune. This everyday Cabernet feels creamy and a touch flat and soupy. Plum and berry flavors are slightly weedy, while this holds steady on a chunky finish.
Berry and plum aromas are good but common. This Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenère blend feels jacked up and tartaric. Flavors of plum and berry fruits are a bit raw, herbal and spicy, while this feels scrubbing and scratchy on a lively finish.
Berry and plum aromas are lightly earthy, oaky and fiery. A tannic, hard-grabbing palate piles on the astringent tannins, while flavors of herbal berry and minty plum show blatant oak and mint-chocolate on the finish.
Berry and plum aromas are ripe and woody, with a note of sawdust appearing on the nose. This has zest and zing on the palate, along with creamy weight, while flavors of toast, wood resin and baked blackberries finish smoky and plump.
Berry and plum aromas are rustic and stalky. Snappy and a bit sharp in feel, this shows leathery, roasted cherry and berry flavors in front of a short finish with black cherry notes.
Berry and plum aromas are so ripe that raisin enters the picture. This feels medium to full, with soft acidity. Flavors of chocolate and wood spice share space with ripe berry fruit, while a full, long finish deals mocha and raisin notes.
Berry and plum aromas are spicy and saucy, with secondary notes of tomato and oregano. Snappy on the palate, this live-wire Malbec is a bit aggressive and acidic. Toasty oak and mint flavors accent fresh red-berry fruit prior to an energetic yet woody finish that's raw feeling but fair.
Berry and plum aromas come with hints of smoke and asphalt. The very high acidity creates a shearing mouthfeel, and the flavors never evolve past tart red plum and cranberry.
Berry and plum aromas come with notes of woodsmoke and rubber. A fresh but common mouthfeel is pleasant, while red-berry flavors lead the palate and come with a touch of creamy oak. Hence, vanilla and additional cream flavors are key components of the finish.
Berry and plum aromas smell a bit burnt, sort of like a burning field. A healthy lively medium-bodied palate delivers smoky oaky roasted berry and plum flavors in front of a lightly spiced finish.
Berry and plum aromas start out aggressive before settling on earth tones and cinnamon spice notes. This feels juicy, ripe and well constructed. Flavors of raspberry, currant and plum are mildly peppery, while savory earth notes continue the wine's good vibes and solidity. Drink through 2020.
Berry and plum scents are clean, not rubbery. A grabby palate feels right, while flavors of plum and raspberry are basic. Loamy notes rise up on a fairly smooth finish that's devoid of overly hard tannins and shrill acidity.
Berry and raisin aromas announce a slightly overripe wine. That's confirmed on the palate, which feels a bit syrupy. Oaky black-fruit flavors are candied, and this Garnacha finishes steady but chunky.
Berry and rubber band are the lead aromas. The wine has texture and lasting freshness despite being more than a year old already. It's medium in size and body, with red fruit and apple skin flavors. Solid, fruity and just lively enough.
Berry aromas and a hint of warmth are the greeting on this blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Tempranillo. The mouthfeel is full, while the body is chunky, with adequate structure. Flavors of black fruits come with a touch of toast, and the finish is round in feel and friendly in flavor.
Berry aromas are a touch dusty and floral on the nose, with hints of earth and cedar. On the palate, this wine is bright and balanced, with fresh acidity. Rich berry, cassis and spice flavors finish agile and long. Drink through 2016.
Berry aromas are clean and forward, with just a spot of resin and vanilla. The palate is snappy and crisp, with cherry and plum acidity framing dry, tangy, lightly herbal flavors of raspberry and red plum. Light and zesty on the semisharp finish.
Berry aromas are followed by a round, wholesomeness that can't be criticized. The palate is unlike many a Carmenère because it eschews the herbal, green element that's inherent to the grape, and instead offers plum, blackberry and all the richness one can conjure. A round, finish of light oak and vanilla seals it all in fine fashion. Surely the most jammy, expressive and pure Carmenère that Chile has to offer.
Berry aromas are jammy and show a pinch of green. The palate matches the nose; it's jammy and soft, with blackberry and spiced plum flavors. Tastes good and rich but feels heavy and a little flabby.
Berry aromas are jammy and sweet smelling. This feels chunky and bit out of shape. Herbal boysenberry flavors come with a green core, while mint, spice, heat and herbal flavors carry the finish.
Berry aromas are matched by toasty charred notes on this blend of Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell. The palate is generous, with a touch of stickiness. Roasted, woody flavors of baked black fruits finish with a medicinal twinge and modest heat.
Berry aromas are mildly herbal and a touch grating and abrasive. This Carmenère-led blend is chewy and concentrated, with baked blackberry, fig, chocolate and herbal flavors. A spicy, figgy, herbal tasting finish is lively and fairly deep. Drink through 2019.
Berry aromas come in front of a sharp, plummy palate. This tastes herbal, spicy and woody, with dry berry flavors that turn tangy, edgy and oaky on the finish.
Berry aromas come in front of a tart pie cherry and rhubarb palate. The feel is tight and acidic, so it lacks for mouthfeel and cries out for food. As a bistro or supermarket buy it offers the most potential.
Berry aromas come with a hint of cheesy oak, spice and leather. This is jammy, extracted and a touch lazy on the palate, while flavors of dark berry and herbal shadings are good. Mild doses of mint and herbs influence a weighty, jammy finish.
Berry aromas come with an oaky, lactic whiff of plastic. A scratchy palate is fruity but awkward, with generic plum and dark-berry flavors. Fig cookie and chocolaty flavors control a blocky finish.
Berry aromas take on a savory and animal hide note. The dense palate carries herbal and earthy flavors, with mulchy, stalky berry tones that come with a dash of coffee grinds. An earthy finish is suggestive of fresh compost.
Berry aromas turn more jammy and unfocused with airing. An offputting, buttery, creamy palate tastes of stewy, earthy plum and compost, while the finish brings an artificial oak flavor. The blend is 60% Bonarda and 40% Malbec.
Berry aromas with a hint of pine and juniper form the opening on this fresh-style Rioja. A quick wash of red plum and raspberry flavors comes with an herbal leaning and minty notes. This finishes firm but light in weight, with a minty aftertaste.
Berry aromas with subtle spice accents are damp and soothing. In the mouth, this is the opposite: All dry tannins and rawness. Hard-driving black-fruit flavors pull up short on a peppery finish. It's an honest but rough wine.
Berry aromas, herbal scents and leafiness dot the nose on this fresh, fairly standard Cabernet. The palate has a juicy, fresh feel and then medium-weight flavors of berry and plum mixed with mocha. Finishes slightly sweet and medicinal.
Berry candy and licorice aromas become more subtle and earthy with air. It feels grabby and abrasive as many Toro's are prone to be, with blackberry and root notes and a sugar beet flavor. The slightly hot, candied finish holds onto that rooty character.
Berry crumble and licorice star in this full-bodied, hearty and smooth wine, blended with 4% Petite Sirah. Spicy oak and milk chocolate unleash further flavor and spice on the finish.
Berry fruit and mild leather open this good little bargain. There's adequate body and fullness, some oak, and then bright, fresh berry, herb and spice flavors. Finishes dry and lightly toasted, with coffee notes.
Berry fruit aromas come with an early hint of floral bath soap and later cherry candy. The palate is fairly wiry and pointed, with power-packed acidity. Direct, bold flavors of plum and red fruits are snappy, lively and run long due to sizzling acidity. Drink this Syrah-Carignan blend through 2023.
Berry fruit aromas come with hints of rubber, latex and mild spice. The palate on this Cab Franc-Carmenère blend is tight and bouncy, with rubbery tannins and earthy flavors of black plum, red berry and resiny oak. This is solid and keeps its form on the finish.
Berry fruit flavors give this ripe, still-young wine plenty of fresh fruitiness. The dryness, which should be at the core of a good Blaufränkisch, is still there, but it is overlaid by the delicious fruit and light acidity.
Berry fruit flavors give this wine a light, fruity character. It is stalky and fresh with acidity, showing a light aftertaste. Drink now.
Berry fruit with a charcoal accent make for perfectly adequate starting aromas. The palate, however, is more tangy and sharp-edged than you might expect, and thus there's driving red-fruit flavors but not much cushion or variance. Solid enough but a touch choppy on the finish. Most leading Malbecs have a bit more stuffing than this one, which seems tight.
Berry fruits and dense red jelly flavors are the hallmark of this wine. It is full, although edging on stalky, its black berry flavors mixed with acidity and dry tannins.
Berry fruits and very soft tannins mark this wine. It has a green pepper edge to it, allied to high acidity. Drink within two years.
Berry, asphalt, leather and jammy notes pour off the bouquet on this full-bodied but fairly basic Tempranillo. Baked blackberry flavors are touched up by peppery spice and carob notes, while the finish is toasty and bitter like espresso.
Berry, baking spice, dried iris, mint and a hint of vanilla come together on this structured wine. On the palate, notes of white pepper, sage, anise, orange zest and yellow peach accent the red cherry core while a balsamic note closes the finish. Firm, refined tannins provide the backbone.
Berry, cassis and cola aromas are bold and stout. This Garnacha feels full and clampy. Plum, blackberry and leathery flavors are strong and secure, and the wine finishes in composed fashion, with rubbery, chewy tannins.
Berry, cassis, wood shavings and loamy earth are the main aromas. Lightly baked flavors of blackberry and plum come with olive and herbal accents. This is oaky, a touch minty and generally comfortable on the finish.
Berry, cherry, earth and coffee aromas form a solid, appealing bouquet. This feels juicy and fresh, not excessive. Flavors of berry fruits, red plum, baking spices and pepper finish toasty, dry and collected. Drink this bright crianza through 2022.
Berry, cola and chocolate aromas are pretty. In the mouth, this wine is bright and brash, with rough tannins and high acidity. Flavors of plum and wild berry are a touch salty and then comes a hard-pounding finish. Drink through 2026.
Berry, dark chocolate and coffee on the nose lead this exuberant red blend from Warwick. Bright fruit flavors and enticing spice on the palate are supported by a solid tannin structure and long finish. Lots of personality and certainly could age, but the wine is approachable now.
Berry, dried sage, licorice and menthol aromas lead the nose. The warm, one-dimensional palate offers toasted oak, coconut, spirit-soaked prune and vanilla alongside sharp, astringent tannins.
Berry, eucalyptus, Alpine herb and a balsamic note are some of the aromas you'll discover on this structured red. The ripe, fresh palate offers juicy Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, cooking spice and licorice alongside firm but refined tannins. Drink 2020–2032.
Berry, herb and baking spice aromas lead the nose. The palate brings fleshy plum, cherry and coffee flavors that linger on the finish. This wine provides great easy-drinking appeal.
Berry, hickory and milk chocolate aromas yield smoky darkness with candied sweetness. The palate is staunch, but those chocolate and berry flavors hinted at up front reappear and finish in medicinal fashion. A sweet and creamy wine but also one that's hard and tannic. 70% Cab with 30% Syrah.
Berry, lemon peel, tobacco and molasses aromas make for a rich and appealing bouquet. The palate is chewy and mildly syrupy in feel, with baked black-fruit flavors receiving a boost from molasses and spice notes. This is dark, handsome and generous but not overly complex. Drink now–2016.
Berry, menthol and a hint of espresso aromas lead the way while the straightforward palate shows mature black-skinned berry, coffee and a hint of licorice. It's already approachable. Drink through 2020.
Berry, mild prune, licorice, herb and rubbery aromas set up a wiry mouthfeel that's full of energy. Lemony oak rests on top of earthy berry fruit flavors and hard tannins, while oak and high acidity as well as plum and raspberry notes finish it off.
Berry, olive, spice and herbal aromas are typical of Chilean Cabernet. Scratchy tannins and medium overall weight make for some roughness, while raspberry and red-plum flavors finish herbal and spicy.
Berry, pickle and bramble aromas are a little tough and crusted over, while the palate is snappy and fresh in feel, with flavors of herbal berry fruit and pepper. A mild hint of oak and resin dry up the finish.
Berry, plum and cassis aromas, what many would call the usuals for CS, are present and accounted for. This offers good weight and nice tannins; flavors of red fruits are fairly oaked, while wood spice, plum and apple-skin flavors finish things off.
Berry, plum and dusty earth aromas control the nose on this full-flavored wine. In the mouth, this offers weight but good framing and edging. Flavors of ripe red fruits fall into the tutti-frutti category, while creamy oak and spice notes spill onto a medium-long finish.
Berry, plum and pastry aromas carry a bit of stalky sweetness. It feels juicy, textured and mildly tannic, with lightly herbal berry and resin flavors. Oaky on the finish, it has a good set of outgoing flavors and length.
Berry, plum and raw oak are common aromas for a young, high-end Malbec from Mendoza. This has bright acidity to go with extracted berry power, while flavors of jammy black fruits, baking spices and chocolate offer intricacies like nutmeg and anise on the finish. Drink through 2019.
Berry, raw oak and graphite aromas lead to a rock-hard drying palate with fierce tannins. This tastes of oaky salty plum and berry, while a woody finish is overtly tannic and borderline abrasive.
Berry, rubber, exotic spice, earth and toast aromas work in harmony. This blend of Tempranillo and Graciano is packed with acidity, structured tannins, oak and red-fruit flavors of plum and raspberry. It's only on the finish where you get richer notes of prune and pastry. Drink through 2022.
Berry, toast and mineral aromas capture the essence of Mencía from Bierzo. A well-sculpted palate offers ripe flavors of black plum, blackberry and oak. A peppery, lush finish turns toward raisin as it fades away.
Berry, vanilla, coconut and barrel spice aromas are followed by barrel flavors in this wine. It brings appeal, but the oak (42% new French and American) seems to take over.
Bertani is Amarone's ultimate ambassador. This is a focused wine and has been carefully consistent over the years. Bertani has always portrayed appassimento—wine made from air-dried grapes—in the most sophisticated and elegant way. This expression shows exotic spice, dried fruit, cola and leather aromas. It could age for 10 years or more.
Bertani keeps a library of vintages that remain available. This 2000 is absolutely gorgeous, with exotic spice, clove, milled pepper, black fruit, dried apple skin, tobacco and cola. The complexity is extraordinary and so is the smoothness and quality of its fine tannins. Hold this wine another 10 years.
Bertrand's entry-level Corbières red exhibits dark, concentrated berry and cherry fruit aromas and flavors supported by an edge of bay leaves, clover and a soft menthol streak. Well-integrated with medium tannins and a mouth-watering finish.
Besides the Malbec, there is also 12% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. The grapes are from the Gold Vineyards in the Rogue Valley. Aged 13 months in French oak, it's showing a big burst of vanilla in both nose and flavor, along with cranberry fruit and some rugged dusty tannins. Another year of bottle age would help to integrate the oak a bit further.
Besides the usual notes of citrus, pear and peach usually associated with Pinot Grigio, this expression offers added dimension in the form of roasted almonds. It has a creamy, honey-rich nose backed by chewy sweetness and refreshing zest. It's nice to see more screwcaps from Italy, especially on these light, easy wines.
Best Buy wines come in all shapes and sizes. This one settles at the bottom of the category, which doesn't mean that it doesn't have its charms, namely sweet and ready fruit and just enough acidity to keep it from being cloying. Keep in mind the price and young vintage when drinking.
Best for those who like a strongly leafy side to their Sauvignons, as this wine features plenty of crushed tomato and nettle and only a modicum of tropical fruit in the background. Drink it over the next few months.
Best known for their red Bordeaux blend, Rubicon also produces small quantities of this Syrah, grown on the Rutherford estate. The wine is spectacular and immensely satisfying. Thoroughly dry, its tannins are front and center, but they are very finely ground, and frame enormously complex flavors of cassis, cherry jam, grilled meat, sweet leather, lavender, crushed pepper, smoky vanilla and cinnamon spice. Drink this fabulous wine now and through 2010.
Best of show at Torii Mor in 2010, the Olson Estate bottling is full-bodied with brambly berry fruit at its core. Notes of pepper, poppy seed and tangy citrus are threaded throughout, and the wine has medium-term aging potential.
Best of the three, this ripe and round Merlot is fully loaded with juicy, appealing red and blue fruits. Forward and clean, with excellent palate penetration, its smooth tannins are supported with firm acid.
Best on the nose, but sharp and narrow as can be on the palate. Cranberry and sour cherry flavors dominate, while the finish is astringent. No amount of swirling and saving is going help it much.
Best on the nose, where apple and lemony aromas are true. In the mouth, it's foamy and crude, with crushing citrus and cidery flavors. Rough, bubbly and massive; tough stuff to swallow.
Best on the nose, which is floral as it mixes in big black fruit notes and coconut. The palate has a creamy, grabby feel and then confected flavors of carob, vanilla and baked berry. Finishes heavy and very sweet, i.e. syrupy.
Best to give this young Pinot a year or two in the cellar, because it's a little too closed to completely enjoy now. It doesn't show the generosity of the '01 or '05, but is more tannic and a little earthier. Should mellow through 2009 and let the cherry flavors emerge.
Better known as a Zinfandel house, Sausal can sometimes surprise with their richly soft, intricately layered Cabs, and the '04 is just that. It's immediately likeable for the wealth of blackberries, chocolate, cedar and spice. Best now and soon.
Better known for Cabernet, Ballentine brings a deft hand to their Block 9 Zin, which has earned high scores for years. The vineyard is in Calistoga, and the warmth has coaxed out intricate flavors of wild red and black berries and cherries, mocha, herbs and spices, with a distinct black pepper note. The tannins are thick, but very fine. Among the top Napa Zins, this wine will age for a decade or longer.
Better known for its aromatic whites, Spy Valley has fashioned a solid, middle-of-the-road Sauvignon Blanc. Passion fruit and pineapple flavors form the medium-weight core of the wine, while grassy notes on the nose reemerge on the finish.
Better known for its Pinot Noir, Ata Rangi has turned in a fine performance with its 2007 Sauvignon Blanc. It's grassy, but balanced by ripe fig and stone fruit characters that weave an intricately detailed medium-weight palate. Long on the finish. Drink now–2009.
Better known for its red wines, Ladoix's whites are a rarity. This wine is made from fruit sourced from vines that are close to the Corton hill. It is steely, minerally and crisp, with a wood-influenced character. With its structure, this needs at least three years of aging.
Better known for its red wines, Penfolds has turned out a lovely Bin 51 Riesling in 2007. An alluring nose of orange sherbet and petrol leads into a medium-weight wine that manages to be both broad and mouthcoating and yet long and racy on the finish. May not be a long-lived Riesling by Aussie standards, but it should still drink well over the next 7-10 years.
Better known for its table wines, Quinta do Crasto still retains an important Port program. This big, dry and smoky effort fully justifies that. It is firmly structured and tannic, with a strong black-pepper character that is balanced by the solid structure and concentration.  Age over many years.
Better known for Pinot Noir, Sojourn is coming on strong in Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a very fine wine. It's firm in tannins and bright in acidity, with an amazingly concentrated core of blackberries, black currants and minerals. Really impresses for the tension between sheer power and classy elegance. Should age, too. Drink now–2020.
Better known in the Dão for its red wines, the Alfrocheiro grape can obviously make attractive sparkling wines. This Blanc de Noirs is fresh with just a touch of tannin and full of red currant fruit flavors. Drink now, for its freshness and fruit.
Better known in the Douro, the Viosinho grape has found another home in the cool coastal Lisboa region. The wine is crisp, tangy and with a great zing of acidity. It is also fruity, full of apple and citrus flavors. Drink this attractive wine now.
Better than in previous years but still brambly and stemmy smelling. The palate is sheer and fairly hollow in the center, with simple buttery raspberry flavors. Shows bits of burnt wood, oil and heat on the finish.
Better than most Argentinean Sauvignon Blancs, and made in a fuller-bodied style. The nose has weight and wax aromas, as well as melon, and the palate features ripe, almost pithy citrus. Dried apricot and a nick of passion fruit work the finish. Drink immediately.
Better than the ‘04, due to its greater structure, Bella Luna's ‘05 Pinot has complex acids and tannins. They provides the architecture for the extremely ripe cherry, raspberry and cola flavors that have been liberally aged in new oak. Best now in its flashy, seductive youth.
Between Nantes and Angers, the small appellation of Coteaux d'Ancenis hugs the banks of the Loire. This rosé, with its fresh while also ripe strawberry fruits, is subtly textured with attractive acidity and lightly perfumed. Drink now.
Between the caramelized new oak and the glycerine from high alcohol, this Zin tastes distinctly sweet, an impression furthered by the ripe raspberry and mulberry fruit flavors. It needs proteinaceous foods, such as charred, oily meats and cheeses, to balance it.
Betz Family's Merlot-based blend offers sleek plum and cassis fruit, with a tart, sappy, yet penetrating presence. Despite some years in bottle, the acids seem to out-run the fruit, though that may bode well for cellaring.
Beware of funky labeled Malbecs because many don't have much to offer. Case in point, this candied, scratchy wine with wild, rampant fruit and not much else. Tastes like a jug wine.
Beychevelle's style is for elegance, and this wine epitomizes that character. It is sweet, soft, with light tannins, achieving a balance of black fruits and acidity, light in structure and depth.
Beychevelle's style privileges elegance over weight, and such is the case with the 2010. It's a pure-fruited, ripe and lightly tannic wine, emphasizing a blackberry note. This will evolve relatively quickly, reaching a peak in approximately eight years.
Beyer's winery is situated in a 16th-century coaching inn, hence the name of this range of wines. This Pinot Gris has power and intensity, showing very ripe tropical fruits and some acidity. There is a definite sweet, spicy edge here.
Beyond a hint of stuck flint on the nose, this offers clean, varietally correct aromas and flavors of white nectarine, grapefruit and gooseberry. It's nicely balanced in the middle of the spectrum, offering a harmonious mix of stone fruit and citrus.
Beyond the hard edge of tannins, this is an extracted wine, with dark chocolate and wood flavors. The hints of fruit bring out a more gentle black currant ripeness, although they are far from developing well.
Beyond the spice of this cool-climate wine,  the flavors offer red berry fruits, fresh acidity and stalky tannins. It's soft, easy to drink now.
Bialla has held back this 2008 for release nearly a year after the lovely 2009. The wine is soft, complex and drinkable now, with blackberry jam and oak flavors, but it's definitely high in alcohol, which gives it a cellar-limiting heat.
Bianco Maggiore delivers touches of lemon drop and kiwi with fresh lime and yellow rose. The mouthfeel is thicker and denser than you'd expect, and it offers a long, tangy fruit-driven finish.
Biancodicaselle from Mount Etna has a distinctly linear and well-defined aromatic quality that recalls nectarine, pink grapefruit, mineral, ash and volcanic smoke. This Carricante-based wine is crisp, clean and very polished on the close and shows the quality of its fruit in a genuine and immediate manner.
Bical is the native grape of Bairrada and this wood-aged version has some of the steely, tight character that is typical of the variety. It also has a good toasty flavor, touches of ripe apple and spice. Drink now, although the wine can age.
Bical produces delicious pear and apple flavored wines. This bright, fruity wine is a fine example of this creamy freshness. It is a wine for drinking now, while fresh and crisp at the end.
Bical, the local white of Bairrada on the central coast of Portugal, is used to make sparkling wines. Here in this still wine, it shows its crisp nature and fine acidity. It is light and fruity, with a perfumed citrus character. Drink now.
Bien Nacido Vineyard actually planted this grape decades ago at Craig Jaffurs' request, and his mastery shows, with aromas balancing between sharper lime zest and riper white peach. There's lots of verve on the palate, yet the steely acidity is presented with medium brushstrokes rather than jabs, with flavors of poached pears, lime glaze and nectarine.
Big-boned and intense, it features oaky, thick, ripe dark cherry as the main standout, although it is nearly overwhelmed by earth and vanilla.
Big-boned and soft, this reserve-tier wine is savory and serene, with forest flavors of wild mushroom. Soy, dried herb, sage and black currant notes pepper the scene.
Big-boned, this wine is juicy and herbal, a nice mixture of pipe tobacco and rustic, brawny blackberry and sage.
Big-format Malbec is what we're calling this new 15.5% wine from Benjamin de Rothschild and Laurent Dassault, original partners in Michel Rolland's Clos de los Siete project. Round, lush and full of body, Flechas shows muscle but little fat. It's colorful, dark, full of black fruit and long on the finish. It is modern Malbec done for modern palates.
Big-hearted fruit dominates this smooth wine. The estate, owned by the Tesseron family and close to their other property of Pontet-Canet, is performing well and it shows in this juicy ripe wine, full of generous tannins. The aftertaste shows both acidity and concentration. Drink from 2022.
Big-hearted wine, full of warm and rich fruit. It has a solid core of dusty tannins, black plum fruit flavors and a delicious, chewy, juicy texture. It does have power as well as intense fruitiness. Age for 3–4 years.
Big-time tannins make this blend of all five classic Bordeaux varieties tight in character. Underneath the astringency are intense flavors of blackberries, cherries and currants that are liberally oaked. Dry and refined, the wine will develop bottle complexity after 2018.
Big-time woody aromas are charred to the max, something that's normal for TerraNoble. A tannic palate is firm and staunch. Woody blackberry flavors include a sweet dose of molasses, while coffee, spiced berry and lemony oak flavors are the conclusion on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot.
Big and beautiful, this full-figured and firm-textured wine has a very dark color, warm fruit flavors like those in cherry and blackberry pie and firm tannins that give it a nice, gripping texture. It's definitely full bodied but still velvety on the tongue.
Big and beefy, this has layers of dark tannins lying over the big black plum fruit flavors. With a solid texture that comes from this rich, dense vintage, the wine is still developing. Drink from 2018.
Big and bitter, this has aromas of overripe plum, prune, espresso and resin with an acrid whiff of sweat that eventually burns off in the glass. The extracted palate offers blueberry, mocha, bitter prune and roasted coffee bean alongside astringent tannins that dry out the finish. Superior Wines, Wine Warehouse.
Big and black but also heavily charred and very oaky—we're talking bulldozer oak that leaves mostly resin and vanilla on the palate. Combine that with huge tannins and extract, and what should be pleasant and fruity becomes a stampede across the palate.
Big and blasting on the nose, with heat and burn. The palate is high-wire boysenberry and a lot of acid, and ultimately it borders on sour and fiery, which probably isn't the intention. Wiry and piercing for a pricey, 800-case-production Malbec.
Big and blocky up front, this tough Malbec smells like pencil lead, dusty berry fruits and herbs. The palate, typical of most Rutini wines, is grabby and clampy, with piercing acidity and rock-hard tannins. Flavors of minty oak shadow berry fruit, while char and mint flavors steer the finish.
Big and boisterous on the nose, with ripe plum, berry, smoke and meaty aromas. Mouthfilling and edgy feeling, with bold berry and plum flavors that feature an herbal, peppery aftertaste. Earthy and herbal leaning on the lengthy finish.
Big and boisterous, as if you're sniffing a bed of coal, menthol and macerated black fruit. The palate is sun-drenched and juicy, but not what you'd call elevated. And the finish mixes savory flavors with tight tannins. A good red wine that bears little semblance to Old World Syrah.
Big and bold in body, earthy in aroma and showing ample fruit flavors, this assertive and high-alcohol wine packs quite a punch in texture, too. The impact of lots of tannin is apparent in the astringency.
Big and bold in character, this full-bodied and abundantly tannic wine looks black to the rim and smells like pencil shavings, leather and wood smoke. The flavors are dry but enticing, with dark chocolate, charred beef and black cherry. It needs until at least 2022 to peak.
Big and bold stuff from southern Spain with burnt, hot aromas of roasted black fruits and stems. Better on the palate, where it brings plum and berry flavors but also some heat and saline. Slightly stemmy and roasted on the finish, much like the bouquet.
Big and bold with great strawberry and red cherry flavors, this wine has all the elements of dense fruit, intense acidity and rich tannins. The structure is dark and full of potential. With acidity at the end to give a lift of freshness, this is a wine for the long-term. Drink from 2020.
Big and bold, a Chard that shows off its terroir in the crisp, citrusy acidity and clean purity of fruit. The flavors veer toward pineapples and green tropical fruits. Oak plays a very prominent role, perhaps a little too much so, in this dry wine.
Big and bold, broad in texture and deep in ripe, chocolaty flavors, this wine is full bodied. Rich in mouthfeel, it's almost sweet, and deftly made to be appealing now despite very firm tannins. It will be outstanding in a pairing with big proteins.
Big and bold, but a bit disjointed aromatically. Ripe fruit and pipe tobacco vie with a fine note of graphite or lead pencil. It seems soft, with a touch of sweetness, but crisp tannins. Give it a few more years to unwind. Finishes thick and chewy.
Big and bold, loaded with red fruits and sharp acidity, the Murray Syrah from Hightower brings a spicy mix of fruit, loam and mineral. There's some heat in it as well. The grapes are estate grown, and the Syrah was cofermented with 5% Viognier.
Big and bold, this emphasizes flavor impact. Attractively deep in hue, it stays ruby-colored and fresh-looking at the rim. An oak influence shows in the vivid vanilla and light maple syrup aromas and carries over to the flavors that show a vein of ripe berry fruit, too. Full bodied and velvety in texture, it has ample tannins that help carry flavors to the finish.
Big and bold, this has noticeable alcohol and loads of chocolate, espresso and jammy black-fruit flavors. The overall muscle and brawn of the mouthfeel give balance to the heat and intensity. Pair this with aged cheese or grilled steak.
Big and bold, this is a dense and firmly structured wine. Dusty tannins and dark plum-skin and blackberry fruits are melded into a complex, firm wine that is still young. It has power and the ability to age for many years. Drink from 2018.
Big and bold, this is a massive Touriga Nacional, emphasizing the structure as much as the fruit. It has a rich black plum character that is paired with firm wood and fruit tannins and a ripe juicy aftertaste. It could do with a year's aging, so drink from early 2017.
Big and bold, this is a rich wine with firm tannins that are balanced by dense fruitiness. Spice, a dark texture and concentration hint at the extraction although this does not detract from potential of the fruit. Give this several more years before drinking, certainly don't try it before 2020.
Big and bold, this is a structured wine. Although it does some have some bitter extraction at this stage, this should pass as the ripe plum and berry flavors assert themselves. The wine is complex, rich and firmly structured to the end. Drink from 2016.
Big and bold, this is a structured, dark wine. Its wood aging still shows, although this will integrate. It will be a powerful, rich wine, dense and with dark tannins. Drink from 2020.
Big and bold, this is classic coastal Petite Sirah. It's dark in color, robust in texture and massive in blackberry, cherry, currant, mocha and anise flavors that taste like they've been baked into a pie. Dry, crisp and balanced, it will be delicious with a charbroiled steak.
Big and bold, this is going to be an impressive Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend from a 2.5-acre plot on the Queyrens family estate. It has great red fruits and generous acidity, both of which are given a strong sense of structure by the tannins. At the moment, it is about potential, so wait until 2017.
Big and bold, this is real Chambertin, a dense mouthful of plum fruit and tannin. It is foursquare, solid but not overbearing, leaving room for a delicious mix of black fruits and power leavened with some acidity. Age this wine for 10 years.
Big and bold, this lives up to the reputation of richer Meursault. Yet crispness, a core of tight structure, toast and fresh fruits are always present. The play between the characters is delicious and likely to allow the wine to age over several years.
Big and bold, this opens on aromas of ripe wild berry, forest floor, sunbaked earth, leather and grilled herb. The concentrated palate offers fleshy Morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice, clove and dried herb while firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the close but the fruit richness keeps it in check. Drink 2018–2025.
Big and bold, this opens with aromas of baked plum, blue flowers and sweet baking spice. The robust, chewy palate doles out fleshy black cherry, espresso, clove and licorice alongside the warmth of evident alcohol. Solid but velvety tannins support the ripe fruit flavors. Drink 2016–2021.
Big and bold, this opens with aromas of mature dark-skinned berry, exotic spice, leather and resin. The concentrated full-bodied palate delivers black cherry steeped in spirits, raspberry compote, vanilla and nutmeg framed in velvety tannins. There is just enough fresh acidity lifts the finish.
Big and bold, this opens with aromas of ripe berry, leather, forest floor, truffle and a whiff of aromatic herb. The muscular palate offers crushed black cherry, blackberry, cinnamon, anise and a hint of thyme framed in assertive but ripe tannins. Thanks to the juicy fruit flavors, you'll on barely detect the warmth of alcohol on the close.
Big and bold, with firm tannins, this powerful Shiraz shows all the ingredients that point to excellent aging potential. Hints of toast and cracked pepper accent dark-berry aromas, while the flavors mix ripe fruit and intriguing spice notes. The finish is marked by espresso, firm tannins and terrific length. Drink 2020–2030.
Big and brawny, this is dry and hard in tannins, as Nickel & Nickel wines tend to be in youth. This one, from a cool section of southern Napa Valley, is brisk in acids, making it rather closed now. But it has a gigantic core of blackberries, with a delicious edge of dark chocolate. Merlot is a difficult wine to age in California, but this one should improve over the next five years, maybe longer.
Big and bright, this full-bodied wine is stuffed to bursting with lightly charred aromas and flavors of black pepper, blackberry and dark chocolate. A soothingly tannic texture matches the flavors in amplitude. The wine feels muscular but also light on its feet.
Big and broad with fruit that is full and ripe, packed with golden apple flavors. It has great texture and sweetness, with a well-judged touch of vanilla from the wood.
Big and brooding with richly concentrated black plums and velvety, mouthfilling tannins, Roman Roth's namesake Merlot is boldly structured, but beautifully nuanced as well, with sprays of violet perfume and just a whiff of wet, earthy forest and dried herb notes. Drink now with a good decant, or hold for another 2–3 years.
Big and burly, here is power from Pinot Noir. The tannins are firm, spiced with dark black fruits, rolling luxuriously around the mouth. A spike of acidity gives the wine some freshness, but it remains a big, plump wine.
Big and burly, with highly respectable aromas of ripe blackberry, toast and mint. Attractive plum and blackberry flavors follow, and as it passes from palate to finish the wine shows its depth and structure. A little stiff in terms of oak and tannin and kind of simple overall. Still, it's a wine that indicates that La Mancha could finally be ready for the world stage.
Big and chewy, this starts with aromas of grilled porcini, underbrush, ripe dark fruit, dried herb and clove. Tightly packed tannins frame dried black cherry, prune steeped in spirits, ground pepper and licorice. You'll also feel the heat of evident alcohol on the midpalate that throws it somewhat off-balance.
Big and concentrated, this is a huge mouthful of really tasty juicy. Peach, pineapple and soft tropical flavors combine in a ripe and luscious wine, which puts the fruit well ahead of the butter and toast.
Big and concentrated, this is packed with tannins and solid dark fruits. It's powerful with a dark plum flavor and an impressive density of texture. Give it at least 7–10 years.
Big and concentrated, this wine's spice and dark fruit flavors are sustained by solid tannins and acids. It has a rich texture that's laced with acidity, so give this concentrated wine another 4–5 years.
Big and dark, with cola, forest floor and other dark, secure aromas. The palate is young and burly, with ripe blackberry, cola and coffee flavors. As you'd expect, it's a bit more narrow than Matallana's top wine, but it's still round, long and not difficult to like. Classic modern RDD; dark and sultry. Drink now through 2011.
Big and dark, with deep aromas of turned earth and roasted black fruits. The palate has a soft, meaty feel along with sweet, semi-soupy flavors of rooty berry, tea, spice and herbs. Finishes with more oak than fruit, but also lush and sweet. Drink now through 2012.
Big and dark, with firm black cherry and blackberry aromas. Offers size, structure and crispness in the mouth, with driving, muscled flavors of cherry, black plum and integrated oak. Spicy and dry on the back end, with more than a hint of vanilla.
Big and dense, this is a wine that also shows a firm side. Its opening richness is given a mineral edge that structures the ripe, foursquare texture and gives shape to spice and blueberry flavors. It is obvious the wine needs aging, probably for five years or more.
Big and densely tannic, this wine's fruit is still firmly buried in the structure. It has wood, spice and ripe plum notes. With its concentrated texture, it is still capable of aging.
Big and dry, this wine shows the tannic, firm character of the vintage. It has a dark, dense core of wood tannins while the juicy black currant fruit is still developing. The wine needs to age, so drink from 2018.
Big and dusty, with plenty of powdered cocoa flavors, the quick impression is of sweet strawberry jam, mocha, and a bit of black pepper. But the tannins are still chalky and rough, and the wine fades quickly.
Big and earthy, with char, savory spice and black fruit aromas. The palate is full and bold, with ripe tannins and delicious flavors of herbs, baked berries, integrated spice and leather. Smooth, long and muscular; made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Syrah.
Big and firm, this is packed with red fruits and solid tannins. It has flavors of red berries and black fruits—the wood component still prominent. The acidity is gentle; but it does need to age for at least four years.
Big and flashy, it has oodles of almost sweet oak and ripe fruit character. Full-bodied, rich in texture, with ripe raspberry and red cherry flavors, it offers firm tannins and a lingering, vanilla scented finish.
Big and flavorful, this full-bodied wine boasts butter, toast and smoke nuances layered over ripe pear and marzipan flavors. Fermented in stainless steel but aged in French oak, it has a rich texture and overt sweetness without going to extremes.
Big and flavorful, this wine smells and tastes like ripe blackberries and dried plums, and has the firm, moderately tannic texture to go with that richness. Made from a high concentration of Petite Sirah and Syrah, it's quite intense.
Big and forceful and loaded with coconut, mint, blackberry and boysenberry aromas that settle on inky. Quite juicy and tight in the mouth, with sharp acidity and oak-based flavors of vanilla, spice and licorice accenting blackberry fruit. Finishes steady, bright and fresh, but sharp on the acidity. Drink now through 2016.
Big and forward but still elegant, which is what we like. Spice and bold black fruit carry the bouquet, which leads straight to a smooth palate flush with berry, plum and cola flavors. Finishes like glass, meaning it's super smooth. A voluptuous but balanced wine, with only the slightest hint of syrup. Drink now.
Big and forward on the bouquet, this has loud, fiery black-cherry and berry aromas. Like most Lurton wines of Spanish origin, El Albar is chewy and ripe, with a syrupy feel and flavors of blackberry, stewed plum and spice cake. The finish is chocolaty, beefy and concentrated.
Big and fruity, and for the most part holds together and exhibits more good qualities than its faults. The flavor profile drives full-bodied black fruit and a finish that cuts out quietly. Not over the top in any way.
Big and fruity, this has generous tannins and ripe black fruits. With its full fruits bursting out of the glass, it is already suitable for drinking. Delicious, full bodied and a great testament to the vintage's quality.
Big and fruity, this is a forward and fresh wine. It has all the weight of ripe Touriga Nacional, perfumed and rich with blackberry fruits. A soft tannic background gives structure to the immediately attractive acidity and fruitiness.
Big and fruity, this is a ripe, full wine that shows good structure and dark berry fruits. It has a fine juicy potential, fine acidity and a perfumed aftertaste. Drink from 2019.
Big and fruity, this is packed with sweet-tasting complex tannins. It is smooth, very dark, ripe and generous. The black fruit flavor gives opulence as well as the power that propels the wine. It needs several years of aging.
Big and fruity, this is very lively, balancing butteriness with green-fruit acidity. The wine is maturing quickly, its tension is fading into rich, wood-flavored fruitiness.
Big and fruity, this rich wine offers warm tropical fruits as well as crisper lemon acidity. It shows a touch of steeliness, but emphasizes fully ripe fruits that are immediately appealing. Drink now.
Big and fruity, this wine is broad but without great definition. It offers weight, soft apple fruits and light acidity. Drink now.
Big and full-bodied for a Pinot Noir, almost like a Grenache in its rich cherry and red currant power. It's a good wine, delicious in its own way, but an outlier for a Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.
Big and gold, with aromas of corn, sweat and vegetal white fruits. This is soft, dull and rich stuff, with an oaky, dry palate of apricot and papaya. Seems over the hill already and it's not yet two years old. 88% Chard and 12% Viognier.
Big and juicy, this is an attractive blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Malbec with a promising future. It has ripe berry fruits, touches of spice and ginger. The tannins are firm, dusty and dry while allowing plenty of room for the fruit. It will develop well; drink from 2018.
Big and juicy, this wine draws on a few sources as well as 15% Petite Sirah to offer a complex and layered expression of black cherry, cardamom and chocolate. Rich from start to finish, it satisfies as it calls out for smoky meat.
Big and lush, this has graphite, coconut, minty oak and huge berry fruit aromas. It's plush in the mouth but not wayward or overly big, with roasted plum, ­molasses, leather and raspberry flavors and a forward barrel note. Savory and long on the finish, this is a blend of 40% Monastrell, 30% Tempranillo and 15% each Syrah and Cabernet.
Big and lush, this one's got gobs of chocolate, plum, spice, black cherry, spice, coffee, herb, toast, and vanilla, all framed in creamy smooth tannins that give a supple quality to the blend. Long, lush and smooth at the end.
Big and modern is the path that Alion (owned by Vega Sicilia) follows. This vintage is excellent, the best since 2001. It offers sweet, ripe black fruit with solid but balanced tannins. Chocolate and leather give the finish sweetness and style, while the overall take is that this is a forceful but sexy wine. Best in a couple of years through 2014. A Europvin, Christopher Cannan selection, imported by multiple importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines.
Big and muscular, this opens with aromas of blackcurrant, grilled pepper and exotic spice. The solid palate delivers grilled porcini mushroom, roasted coffee bean and prune alongside teeth-coating tannins.
Big and noisy for a wine with 13 years of age behind it. The bouquet mixes raisin, tobacco and leathery aromas with great results. The palate is stylish and flows nicely, with tobacco, dried fruit and tomato flavors. Excellent on the finish, with classy oak and leather. Drink now through 2015. A Europvin, Christopher Cannan selection, imported by multiple importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines.
Big and opulent, this has ripe tropical fruits, with a soft, toasty texture and full-bodied feel. With its richness, this is developing quickly and is already ready to drink.
Big and ponderous for a Pinot Noir, almost like Grenache, it's so full-bodied and rich in cherries, mocha, anise and spices. Delicious in its way, but lacks Pinot finesse and subtlety. Drink up.
Big and powerful tannins give this wine a dry, dense and extracted feel. Black fruits power through the structure, offering a rich experience. No shy violet, this is a wine with considerable concentration and aging potential.
Big and powerful without going completely over the edge, the 2008 Kiwa is a dark-fruited wine with hints of dried fruit and Christmas spices. It's full bodied, rich and almost chewy in texture, yet finishes fresh and long.
Big and powerful, but nuanced despite its size. It's a dark, extracted wine, filled with wild cherry, raspberry, currant and sandalwood flavors, as well as exotic notes of forest balsam, grilled mushrooms, tamari and dusty Indian spices. Super-complex, it changes with every sip, and should change interestingly over the next six years. The vineyard is in the Petaluma Gap, and argues strongly for that region's future.
Big and powerfully structured, this opens with aromas evoking truffle, sunbaked earth, fruitcake, iris and a whiff of game. The round meaty palate shows raspberry compote, fleshy morello cherry, clove and a hint of nutmeg alongside chewy tannins. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the finish. Drink through 2023.
Big and properly dense in texture, this has a great swathe of pure black-plum flavor. It's ripe and filled out with dusty tannins..
Big and purple, with sweet aromas. But the palate is very uneven, with acute acidity that scours and turns the plum and grape flavors sour. Grabby mouthfeel as well, with clamp.
Big and quite tannic, this is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot. The combination of Red Mountain fruit and the naturally tannic Petit Verdot is balanced against by the tart, juicy berry flavors and the influence from having aged in 100% new French oak. Nothing shy here, but the floral and citrusy aromatics add a welcome layer of complexity.
Big and rich in the mouth, with gorgeous, velvety tannins. Offers a juicy plum and cassis core, with oak, tobacco and earth accents, and a char and cocoa notes on the back end. As compelling as the flavors are, it'll be the mouthfeel that wins you over (this is one of those Cabs that could taste like eggs Benedict and still be delicious—its mouthfeel is that good).
Big and rich yet also complex and layered, this wine has an extremely dark color and spicy, floral, perfumed fruit flavors that spread out for a mouthfilling texture. Full bodied, fascinating and luscious, it hails from a high-elevation vineyard in Mendocino County.
Big and rich, front-loaded with blackberry and cherry jam fruit. The tannins are considerable, giving the wine a full-bodied mouthfeel, like Grenache. Delicious, but a bit ponderous now for a Pinot Noir. Give it a few years in the cellar to mellow.
Big and rich, powered with sweet fruits, rounded with black plums. The firm tannins are densely packed at the core of this ageworthy wine. With its swathes of ripe fruit and the edge of wood aging, it's already delicious, but keep for at least six years.
Big and rich, this full-bodied wine has an aroma like the crema on an espresso and abundant dark-fruit flavors. A wonderful, mouthcoating texture keeps the flavors lingering on the finish. The sense of layering and creaminess that extends after a sip is captivating.
Big and rich, this is a broad, open version of Corton-Charlemagne, a powerhouse of ripe white and yellow fruits. It seems initially without enough depth, a product of its youth, then gradually the ripe structure shows through, promising aging over 6–7 years.
Big and rich, this is just settling into its stride. It has weight and richness, with taut acidity as well as a forward, concentrated, fruity character. For food and for aging.
Big and rich, this is packed with complex flavors of soft cherry jam, roasted meat, white pepper and sweet, smoky new oak. There's a note of overripeness in the finish, like dried prunes. Drink it now with rich, fatty meats and sauces.
Big and rich, this is packed with ripe wild-strawberry and red-plum fruits. The wine has attractive acidity, with concentration and power.
Big and rich, this wine is exuberantly fruity with a sweet juicy core of ripe blackberry. Big, bold and forward with well-integrated tannins, this is likely to age quickly; try in 2–3 years.
Big and ripe wine with sweet, jammy black fruits layered with new wood. The wine is powerful, to be sure, but it also has a stylish elegance from the interplay of fruit acidity and tannins.
Big and ripe, this has the firm tannins and solid, mineral structure of the Douro. This is a dense wine, packed with black plum fruits over a dark, concentrated structure. Firm, it also has generous fruitiness. It is ready to drink, but will be better from 2017.
Big and ripe, this is structured with fine acids, rich berry fruits and firm tannins. The ensemble is full bodied, juicy and elegant, finishing with crisp flavors of red cherry and pepper.
Big and ripe, this Nero d'Avola weaves together blue flower, leather, fleshy blackberry, black cherry, clove, sage, vanilla and subtle oak sensations. The juicy fruit is framed by round, velvety tannins. You'll also notice a warmth on the finish before it closes on a licorice note.
Big and ripe, this rich wine offers a good combination of spice and tropical fruits. It is bold, smooth and creamy. Deliciously ripe, it's ready to drink.
Big and ripe, with cola, root beer and berry aromas along with rich oak. The palate is a high-wire act of bright red fruit combined with thick milk chocolate and malt. The tannins and acidity allow the wine to be aggressive, maybe too much so given that the fruit is somewhat tart and prickly.
Big and robust in ripe black cherry and a richness of vanilla, this wine is full-bodied and then some, imparting plenty of tannin and structure. Forest floor, spicy cardamom and smoky cola give definition to the weight.
Big and rounded, this has layers of caramel and strawberry flavors. The fruit is ripe and forward, with delicious acidity and a soft, honeyed aftertaste.
Big and rounded, this tastes rich and packed with ripe fruit. It as weight and a yellow fruit flavor, with notes of red apple and canteloupe. It is soft, delicious and almost ready to drink.
Big and rounded, this will eventually develop into a ripe, complex wine. Spice and toast notes merge with the yellow fruits and structured nervosity.
Big and saturated is the best way to describe this mammoth blend of Cabernet, Carmenère and Cab Franc. It's full of ripe fruit, coconut and cassis on the nose. Next up is a pure, bulky palate of raspberry, plum and vanilla. There's some sweet, resiny oak notes if you dig deep, but overall it is a high-end, structured red blend. Drink now through 2012.
Big and showy, with an ripe, opulent feel, this is all about dark fruits and firm tannins. Flavors of black cherries and plums are balanced by the acidity, all rolled together into a structure that's powerful and seriously age-worthy.
Big and smoky, it discloses fruit as well as solid tannins. The wine has power and density, with black fruits that show sweetness. It will be delicious but the structure does need to soften first. Drink from 2017.
Big and solid, this is very firm in character. It has weight, density and dry tannins. At the same more juicy black fruits and acidity emerge from this mineral textured wine. Powered by its structure, it could well age for 3–5 years.
Big and spicy wood flavors dominate this rich, expressive wine. With its black currant and berry flavors, it's both fruity and structured. There is dense dryness as well that gives concentration to back up the fruitiness.
Big and strong, with full but easy black-fruit aromas. Ripeness is where it should be, as cassis and berry flavors work the consistent palate before giving way to a medium-long finish. Along the way there are hints of herbs, coffee and cherry cough drop.
Big and sultry as always, with bacon, smoke, black fruit and a full rack of spices making for a wonderful bouquet. Concentrated and ripped for a 2007, with blackberry, clove, pepper, cinnamon and vanilla flavors. And then comes tobacco and more spice on the finish, which is grabby but understandable because it's so young. Best from 2012 through 2019.
Big and sweet, with ripe berry aromas, candy and leather on the nose. This wine is a classic fruity joven; it's bulky and easygoing, with black cherry, raspberry and chocolate. If you aren't looking for miracles, this is fine within the young Ribera del Duero category.
Big and tannic, but tempting and tasty at the same time, this wine tastes ripe, full bodied and fruity, wrapping a blanket of fine tannins around the richness to keep it from being too sweet or overripe. It's half Merlot and half Petite Sirah.
Big and tannic, while at the same time potentially rich and smooth, this is, as always, an impressive wine. It has weight and dense texture. A solid wine that shows great potential; for now, revel in the plum juice and final acidity that provide a bright counterpoint to the solid, brooding structure.
Big and tarry, with asphalt and black fruit galore on the nose. A full, heavy, saturated style of wine with chunky blackberry and sweet, syrupy flavors. Rich but candied, with a bit of toast to the finish.
Big and tight and intense, a bottle for serious Petite Sirah lovers only. True Vine's wines are estate grown and aged for two years in American oak. Big and ageworthy. Marco Cappelli is the winemaker.
Big and with some sweetness, this is a full vintage wine from a great year. There is freshness, but the wine is dominated by ripe fruit touched by caramel and has a rich, toasty aftertaste.
Big and woody to start, with heavily toasted blackberry and herbal aromas. The palate is thick, dense and tannic, but it doesn't punish. Tastes of cassis, blackberry and herbs before transitioning to dry oak and roasted berry on the finish.
Big aromas of blackberry and raspberry feed into a full, fresh and ultimately standard palate with grapy blackberry flavors that show a controlled herbal side. Toasty and a touch bitter on the finish, it has a minty aftertaste.
Big aromas of blackberry, leather, turned earth and white mushroom set up a bright, layered palate with fresh acidity at its core. Floral, exotic red-berry flavors are spicy and in sync with each other. A crisp, peppery finish with toasty oak ensures that this single-vineyard Malbec is built to last. Drink through 2025.
Big black-fruit aromas of plum and wild berry get this young Tempranillo off to a good start. This feels juicy and as fresh as basic Spanish red wine gets; flavors of blackberry, dark plum and a hint of chocolate are rolled into one and finish clean.
Big blackberry and pungent black-currant aromas meet with gooey fudge, black licorice and lilac on the large and lovely nose of this bottling, which is made with 5% Viognier. It's thick and juicy on the sip, with tons of anise, dill, baked blackberry, cassis and a well-integrated minty character.
Big blackberry aromas show very little rusticity. Feels full but smooth and balanced, with a nice mix of wild berry, spice and fine herb flavors. Mellow and not pushy on the finish. Really good for Bonarda.
Big boned and brawny, this is a lushly textured wine full of intensely ripe black plum and cherry flavors. It's richly fruity, but textured with velvety tannins, crushed granite notes and a hit of acidity that lingers on the finish. A blend of Bulgarian and international grape varieties.
Big boysenberry aromas are lively, a bit minty and fresh, while the extracted palate has a fruit-driven personality, ample tannins and dark wild-berry flavors. Young, bouncy and tangy on the finish. Composed for a young, inexpensive red.
Big briary berry aromas smell smoky and like coffee. This is tight at its core, with a sensation of buttery oak around the fringes. That same buttery oak character carries over to the flavor profile, which includes medicinal red fruits. On the finish, this is firm, crisp and juicy.
Big but balanced, this sturdy, flavorful wine is deep in color and has classic ripe cherry, cedar and cinnamon aromas. The flavors echo the nose, feeling mouth-filling and backed by firm, grippy tannins. An enjoyable wine that doesn't overwhelm the taste buds. Best after 2019.
Big but balanced, this wine starts with very ripe fruit aromas, then brings bold black cherry, clove and blackberry flavors on a firm texture of fine-grained tannins and good acidity. The full body, layered fruit and dark spice elements make a great combination.
Big but murky; there just isn't much focus to this leathery, full-fruit bruiser that seems to draw its energy from a powerful beam of acidity that runs through the center of things. Short on balance and charm, but big on extract and tannins.
Big but poised, this full-bodied, 100% varietal wine has plenty of dark berry and spice flavors and a generous broad texture that's well supported by tannins. It's nicely dry, mouthfilling and needs a rich protein dish to pair with.
Big but polished, this full-bodied wine almost bursts with dark berry and bittersweet-chocolate flavors that are laced with lighter, spicier oak nuances. It tames the overtly tannic grape variety and shapes it into a bold and very appealing style.
Big but scattered. The nose mixes incongruent aromas of green beans, chocolate and wood resin before transitioning to a palate of wood spice and generic berry fruit flavors. Too chewy, resiny and woody, and lacking harmony.
Big but well balanced, this full-bodied wine has been tamed a bit by two-and-a-half years of aging, but it still has the typical firm tannins that cling to the sides of the mouth. Accents of cedar and earth accompany the tasty blackberry core of flavor.
Big but well poised and supple, this luxuriously ripe-tasting, mouthfilling, semisweet wine has enormous fruit flavors of black cherry and black currant wrapped in velvety, fine-grained tannins. It's so smooth that it's firm structure is not readily apparent.
Big butterscotch—aromas and flavors—come close to drowning out some of the finer nuances of this wine, which include green apples, citrus fruits and dried spices. Spicy oak and tart lemons linger on the finish.
Big damson fruits dominate this rich wine. The wood aging has smoothed out some of the dense tannins although the wine remains firm and solid. There's a sense of power behind the juicy dark fruits and the dry core. It needs to age, so drink from 2018.
Big flavors and full body make this deep-colored Grenache stand out. It combines aromas of ripe raspberry and boysenberry jam with hints of tobacco and cedar in the flavors. All are supported by a firm, tannic texture that is rounded out by a sensation of richness.
Big flavors and structure come together perfectly in this full-bodied, dry wine that's meant for the dinner table. Its unique fruit character combines raspberry, blackberry and rhubarb, while firm tannins and vibrant acidity create an appetizing, mouth-cleansing texture.
Big flavors meet big tannins and full body in this dark-colored, concentrated and mouth-filling wine. Made from Syrah grapes that were foot-stomped and fermented with native yeasts, it delivers a blast of black cherry flavor that lasts from the aroma through the finish.
Big flavors, full body and assertive tannins balance each other to make this out-sized wine a winner. It has ripe black cherry and dried fig aromas, gushing fruit flavors and a broad texture, but the firm tannins keep it from tasting fat. It's hardly delicate, but definitely delicious.
Big flavors, lots of body and a smooth, almost thick texture make this a bold wine, yet it also has good underlying acidity to keep it from being heavy. The aroma is quite earthy when first uncorked but that goes away with airing and the buttery and ripe fruit flavors come through and stay lingering on the finish.
Big for a Pinot Noir, but that's Santa Lucia and Tondre for you. It could almost be Grenache, but it sure is delicious. Floods the mouth with raspberries, cherries, spices and oak; full-bodied, with some hefty tannins, but it never loses Pinot's essential silkiness. Drink now–2015.
Big for a Riesling, this has concentrated, sappy, rich tropical-fruit flavors. The grapes used were sourced from the Lawrence Vineyard on the Royal Slope. It has a fair amount of residual sugar, adding extra richness. Succulent peach, apricot and papaya notes sends lip-licking flavors deep into the finish.
Big fruit aromas of plum, raspberry and a whiff of pepper start this enjoyable red from Gerovassiliou. On the palate, flavors of spicy black fruit, clove and smoke appeal and should pair well with grilled meat dishes and stews.
Big grapy aromas of blackberry and cassis are rather heavy and flat. This has a tannic abrasive mouthfeel in which nothing is smooth. Borderline overripe flavors of baked plum and blackberry finish chocolaty and with baking-spice flavors.
Big honeysuckle, sweet caramel and stone-fruit aromas are backed on the palate with concentrated tangerine and melon flavors. It's a bold fruity wine with luscious body and yielding acidity but tea tannins and grapefruit flavors lend structure.
Big in berry and currant fruit, high in alcohol, hard in astringent tannins. Brazen indeed. But you know what? This Zin pulls off its balancing act. It's a spicy, briary, lusty wine that will pair well with slow-cooked, braised meat dishes, like lamb shanks.
Big in every sense, this powerful, almost black-colored wine is solid, packed with dry tannins and ripe fruit. Made from Alicante Bouschet, it is a rich, opulent wine, with a strong spice, pepper and fruit character. This blockbuster needs aging, so drink from 2018.
Big in every way, with tons of new oak, popcorn and coffee sitting on top of dark-fruit aromas. Modern despite its incorporation of several indigenous grapes, this blend delivers a blast of roasted black cherry and plum flavors in front of a resiny finish that's dripping with menthol and molasses. Unique if a touch syrupy; it's clearly shooting for the modern style.
Big in flavor and structure, this dark-colored, full-bodied wine is concentrated and laced with fine-grained tannins to support rich blackberry flavors. It's smooth and mouthfilling, with a lingering finish.
Big in flavor and unabashedly tannic in texture, this dry and full-bodied Bordeaux-style blend has ripe flavors, dense concentration and firm, fine-grained tannins. Vanilla and milk chocolate aromas lead to red cherry and cranberry flavors on the palate.
Big indeed, this is very dark and concentrated, with fruit-powered flavors wrapped in sweet baking spices. An impressive Petite Sirah that does not seem too tannic; the barrel flavors—vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar—more than compensate, and the fruit is round and ripe enough to hold the focus.
Big mountain fruit here throws powerful aromas of ripe plum, thyme and bacon, while full-scale oaking yields maple aromas, vanilla flavors, and coffee on the finish. The wood element is a little weighty at this point, but there's solid fruit to support it.
Big oak defines this robustly dense and extracted red, swimming in vanilla and cherry flavor. Full-bodied and gravelly in texture, it's a rustically pleasant wine for pizza nights and crowds.
Big oak surrounds soft layers of earthy mushroom, clove and tobacco, the wine powerfully built and full-bodied in ripeness. Black pepper and a green note of cedar dot the finish.
Big oak turns salty and citrus-laden in this mellowed, balanced and medium-bodied white, made in tiny amounts. Apple, ginger and honey take over midway, before the finish turns intriguingly salty once again.
Big on tannins and equally big on ripe fruit, this is a rich wine. Its dense texture and bold blackberry flavors are coming together well. Drink from 2021.
Big plum and berry aromas announce that this has fuel in the tank. It's well balanced in a normal way, with baked plum, red berry and toasty flavors. This is packed with a lot of raw flavor and power. From Rio Negro in Patagonia.
Big red fruit embraces chewy, integrated tannins in this vineyard-designate, a full-bodied explosion of ripeness and bold expression. While powerful, it holds on to nuance via streaks of high-toned citrus, allowing the wine room to breathe and remain lighthearted.
Big ripe, fruity aromas promise a powerful wine. It does have weight, but it also offers fruity elegance that's borne up by firm tannins. With this good balance, it will age well, its black fruits bursting with attractive acidity.
Big ripeness and bold fruit flavors characterize this sun-drenched expression of Nero d'Avola. The wine is soft and chewy, with cherry liqueur notes on the close.
Big spice and blackberry/cherry aromas start this wine out right, and on the palate, a rustic underlay of tobacco and pepper adds character. Good structure and acidity add a food-friendly edge. A wine that is easy to drink and well made.
Big structure underlies this wine, very firm and dark. It has layers of dry tannins, big fruit and concentrated structure. The dryness at the heart of the wine will allow it to age well with its powerful structure and juicy aftertaste. Drink from 2020.
Big tannin and burly toasted oak make for a full-bodied, robust entry into this concentrated wine. It offers an undeniable hit of Dr. Pepper and wild mushrooms grown on a forest floor.
Big tannins and a dry core dominate this solid, dense wine. To balance the structure, the wine also has concentrated aromatic dark plum and berry fruits that are ripe and sustained by intense acidity. This wine, from a fine vintage, should still age, so wait until 2017.
Big tannins and impressive fruits are the hallmarks of this impressive wine. It is also subtle, not showing all its flavors at once, hiding beneath tannins and structure. For this fruity vintage, it shows a strong sense of direct, solid structure, only allowing the strong black plum and berry flavors to come through slowly. It is for the long haul, so don't drink before 2022, even better later.
Big tannins and sweet, juicy cherry fruit dominate on the entry of this wine, which delves into oak and brambly blackberry thereafter. A hint of sage rounds out the finish.
Big tannins dominate this dry, brushy expression of Cabernet Sauvignon with 5% Merlot that is austere in fruit.
Big tannins dominate this still young wine. It has spice and a dry toast character that will need to soften. With acidity and hints of red fruits that should happen, so drink this wine from 2019 when its potential should be realized.
Big tannins give this wine a powerful structure. It has a dense texture that is slowly revealing the sweet-tasting fruit. Powerful and concentrated, it has a long future.
Big tannins mask the fruit in this potentially ripe and fruity wine. It is structured and dark with a dry core of tannins. It means the wine needs time. Drink from 2019.
Big tannins support the layers of extracted, concentrated fruit that leans red into cherry, cassis and currant. Char and vanilla speak for the oak.
Big wood, big fruit—there are no half measures here. The wine is spicy from the tannins and wood, the fruit is densely black with red berry tinges, and the power is evident throughout. This wine has weight.
Big, and bold, this achieves full flavors and body with good balance at the same time. Aromas are like grilled bread and baking spices, flavors resemble Bing cherry and cassis, while the texture is smooth and lively at the same time. Fine tannins mingle with good acidity and persistent flavors for a lingering finish.
Big, and powerful, this has generous flavors of yellow fruit, pear and integrated spice. It has weight to go with its more fruity character. With wood influence, refreshing acidity and a suggestion of tannin, it will age over the next 2–3 years.
Big, awkward aromas of red fruit and oak are followed by simple berry and plum flavors and even more overt oak. The finish is big and warm, while late in the game the wine turns tangy. This is one of many mass-market Merlots with few glaring faults; but still it fights to rise above basic acceptability.
Big, baked and round on the nose, with leather and sweet blackberry aromas. Put it on the scale and it'll weigh in as heavy. The flavors are dark and cooked as it centers on black plum and blackberry. Short on finesse but long on size, with coffee and chocolate on the finish. Drink now before it turns even softer.
Big, balanced and very flavorful, this full-bodied, handsomely oaked wine is easy to love. Baking-spice aromas, ripe black-cherry flavors and firm, fine-grained tannins make a harmonious mix.
Big, bawdy, hard and concentrated, with black fruit and floral aromas. The palate is grabby and fully tannic, while the flavors run toward blackberry, coffee and vanilla. Rich and espresso-like on the finish, with no shortage of oak and richness. Very big at 15% alcohol.
Big, big, big! This is a mountain-grown Bordeaux blend, based on Cabernet Sauvignon, and it's tremendous all around. Explodes in jammy blackberries, blueberries, currants, cherries and mocha, and the tannins are strong, but refined. Combines elegance and power, and should develop over the next 6–8 years.
Big, black and juicy, it manages to be both dense and structured and freshly fruity at the same time. With this combination promising great things, the wine is ripe and fragrant. The dark color from the Petit Verdot in the blend follows through to the firm texture while allowing room for refreshing juiciness. Drink from 2017.
Big, black colored wine that is firm and solid while also offering smooth richness. It has concentration, dense and bitter tannins that need time to soften out. Powerful and dense, age this wine for at least four years.
Big, blocky black-fruit aromas are reduced and potent. This is quite chunky and extracted in feel, with jammy gritty blackberry and plum flavors that are mildly herbal and simmer with heat and heft on the finish.
Big, bold and black in color, this wine is full of new wood perfumes, and it has a smooth, polished texture. Rich, fruity and firmly balanced, it has dark tannins that create a powerful structure. It offers some aging potential.
Big, bold and brawny, this wine from a very famous vineyard shows off its savory edge with tufts of clove, leather, gun smoke and tea, providing the requisite dustiness on the palate for which the region is known. Medium bodied and integrated well, it represents the vintage and region in all good ways.
Big, bold and bulky on the bouquet, with a truck load of ripe blackberry and boysenberry aromas that rightly announce that a fruit bomb is coming. Feels plump, round and structured, with soft tannins and compact flavors of berries, black plums and herbs. Finishes full, with a mild herbal accent.
Big, bold and cuddly, this wine's tannins are cushioned by the red berry fruit and attractive acidity. It has weight and a rich feeling, and the dry edge offers the possibility of aging. This small clos is exclusive to Jaffelin.
Big, bold and dense, this Primitivo di Manduria delivers blockbuster notes of blackberry preserves, cola, molasses and green spice. In the mouth, it has slight astringency and tight tannins with good persistency and length overall.
Big, bold and dry in style, this hearty wine with a 1960s-theme label has aromas like ripe black grapes with a slight earthy accent, and tastes opulent, generous and spicy.
Big, bold and fruity wine, boasting deliciously ripe black fruits and a smooth, just tannic texture. All fruit, this is the perfect barbecue wine: rich, open and generous. Drink now and until 2016.
Big, bold and fruity, this dense wine has rich, red berry fruits and firm tannins its the core. While ripe and fruity, there is a hint of salty sea spray from a cool maritime influence. Drink now.
Big, bold and fruity, this wine shows richness, opulence and swathes of black plum fruit that cushions the structure. Powerful and fruity now, with long aging potential shown by the ample tannins and acid.
Big, bold and juicy, with ripe black fruits that dominate the rich tannins. The power and concentration both promise a good future for this solid, full-bodied wine, so keep for 4–5 years.
Big, bold and oaky, this wine smells like buttered toast and wood smoke, tastes rich but dry, and brings out pear, marzipan and pineapple flavors. It's full bodied and has a thick mouthfeel and lingering, smoky finish.
Big, bold and outright luscious, this estate-grown Dolcetto mixes bright flavors of berries and plums with a dusting of cocoa powder and cinnamon spice. A flavor of baking spice wafts through, despite the fact that the wine was kept in neutral cooperage. The finish is long and just a little on the chalky side.
Big, bold and rich wine, solidly tannic, firm and ripe. Vivid black plum flavors scroll across the palate giving a full, firm, right up front feel. The wine has great texture, weight and density. It also has an impressive future, so drink from 2017.
Big, bold and ripe, it has concentrated fruit flavors that give black plum juice and acidity, while the tannins still show strength and power. The blend of Syrah, Alicante Bouschet and Aragonez is coming together richly and with density. It needs to age, so don't drink before 2016.
Big, bold and ripe, this is a rich wine with its 82% Merlot. It is jammy while keeping its tannins and structure. Ripe and full in the mouth, the wine is firm enough to age for a long time. It is going to be generous, full and ripe. Drink from 2025.
BIg, bold and ripe, this wine has juicy blackberry flavors, sweet tannins and layers of refreshing acidity. With everything so vivid at the moment, it's obvious it needs time. You could give it 4–5 years in the cellar, although if fruitiness is your pleasure, then drink this wine sooner.
Big, bold and rounded, this is a rich wine from a single vineyard. Red-plum fruits go with a plush texture that masks the firm tannins and dry core. The acidity and structure both promise long-term aging. The wine is still young, needing time. Drink this from 2022.
Big, bold and soft, this is way too heavy. Sure, the Grüner spice is all there, but it is at the expense of a fresh, racy character. The toast character doesn't quite work either.
Big, bold and spicy, this wine is ripe with black fruit. Tannins and a rich texture confirm its upfront style. Likely to take its time to develop, it will be ready to drink from 2020.
Big, bold and structured, this is a dry yet mouthwatering beast of a Shiraz, its blackberry, mocha and black olive notes held in check by firm tannins. Give it 3–4 years in the cellar, then drink it over the next several years.
Big, bold and tannic, this is powerful Gamay from La Tour du Bief vineyard in Juliénas. It has weight, and a concentrated texture that bodes well for the wine's future. Along with this structure are the fragrant black and red currant fruits, already delicious to drink.
Big, bold and tannic, this layered and nicely ripe wine is an iron fist in a velvet glove. It smells like espresso and dark chocolate, tastes equally roasted and rich, but backs its darker flavors with blueberry and blackberry notes, finishing smooth. Best after 2019.
Big, bold and unreservedly stemmy, this Carmenère pulls in enough black-cherry fruit to balance out the herbs. The assertive tannins carry notes of earth, dried leaf and dark chocolate.
Big, bold and very fruity, this is a black-currant-dominated wine. It's full of broad brush strokes of acidity and spice from wood aging. Still young, it needs to be aged. Drink from 2016.
Big, bold blackberry and mulled-plum aromas are ripe, briary and turn more raisiny the longer this wine sits. Raw, tart acidity and firm tannins offer structure. This wine has a palate of prune and stewed meat, with a rich yet rugged feel. Drink through 2021.
Big, bold flavors of cherry pie, red currant, toasty oak and vanilla mark this ripe, tasty Pinot. It has broad appeal, successfully made for a palate that likes accessibile wines that seem sweet and fruity.
Big, bold fruit and penetrating tannins mark this lush, powerful Cabernet Franc. Rich black cherry and berry flavors penetrate the palate, layered in streaks of smoke, spice and cranberry acidity. It's a potent wine to mature till at least 2018.
Big, bold tannins and ripe black fruits mark a wine that is solid and concentrated. Juicy acidity keeps the rich fruits crisp as the wine matures gently. Generous and with hints of wood aging, the wine will be best drunk from 2018.
Big, bold tannins set this wine up with fine potential. It has structure and good concentration. Richly endowed with black fruit, it will age well. Drink from 2021.
Big, bold wine, ripe fruits pushed forward by wood, some spice, rich in character. This is lush Chardonnay, but with a good mineral edge.
Big, bold, and buttery, with plenty of oaky micro-popcorn flavors. Don't look for subtlety, but you get plenty of flavor.
Big, bold, brawny yet strangely elegant, this Zin holds plenty of appeal. The vineyard is 96 years old, giving the wine unusual concentration and complexity. It's one of the winery's riper 2011 Zins, massive in wild raspberries, cherries and prunes, with spicy notes of black pepper and a nice touch of smoky oak.
Big, bold, dark and chewy, this builds upon substantial black-cherry fruit and supporting acids. Still knitting together, it shows highlights of cedar and tobacco, along with thick tannins. Give this a couple more years of bottle age, and drink after 2018.
Big, bold, powerful, extracted, intense. Pours almost black in color, and tastes immense in blackberries, black currants, sweet smoked leather and pepper, with a bacony spiciness. Acidity and tannins both are evident, giving this Syrah good structure. Seems at its best now and soon.
Big, bold, savory and herbal, this complex Cab starts with aromas of black cherry, cedar and vanilla, rolling out into rich waves of cedar, blackcurrant, herbs and spice.  Masculine and ageable, the wine has a stylish but strudy character and a lingering pepper finish. A wine for the cellar, or to drink now with a juicy steak.
Big, bold, wild and dark, with mild burnt aromas backed by broad blackberry and plum flavors. This represents the fruity, thick style of Syrah, with additional notes of black olive and savory meat pie. It's not flawless but its pounding fruit character will earn its share of fans.
Big, brawny and not entirely welcoming: this Priorat heavyweight is full of licorice and cool black-fruit and cola aromas. The palate is hard as nails, and only time will tell if it softens and finds a sweeter spot. We think it will; in five years it should trade in the current burnt steak notes and fierce tannins for softer touches and more complex flavors.
Big, brawny tannins carry wave after wave of ripe black cherry, cola and clove flavor in this ethereal, earthy wine. Its velvety texture is rich and rewarding, balanced by a persistent thread of acidity and a tease of ash.
Big, broad and ripe, with an opulent texture, flavors of black plums. along with soft tannins and a smooth surface. The wine is developing well, offering rich fruit that will deepen in a couple of years.
Big, brooding and ripe, this is packed with a blackberry flavor that is laced through the bitter chocolate and mocha notes and dark tannins. It is powerful and concentrated, smooth and dark tasting.
Big, bulky and granular, with high alcohol and saucy, raisiny aromas. The palate and flavors find a comfortable resting spot, and the wine's baked berry and brown sugar flavors are solid if a little forced and sweet. A rich wine that needs to be drunk soon.
Big, bulky, ripe aromas of cassis and blackberry come with a hint of cedar and spice. This Cab shows a clampy, tannic mouthfeel and loamy, ultraripe flavors of blackberry and cassis. Fudge, mocha and blackberry flavors drive the finish on this ripe wine from a hot vintage.
Big, burly Pinot Noir, dominated by black cherries, rich fruit and firm tannins. This is wine that shows richness, with a smoky, chewy structure and great spice and aromatic perfumes. The juiciness comes through on the finish, but never leaves the structure behind.
Big, but nicely proportioned and balanced, this dark, spicy, rich, dry wine makes the mouth water for a slab of grilled meat. It has ripe blackberry, espresso and mild smoky flavors, surprisingly smooth tannins and a lingering finish.
Big, chunky and dark on the nose, but smells monotone except for a floral hint. The palate shows nice body, saturation and grabby tannins to go with oak-infused flavors of black plum, cola and spice. Savory and rooty on the finish. A good restaurant wine, either by the glass or bottle.
Big, chunky and ripe, with earthy aromas followed by soft, round texture. Spice and black berry fruit juice are supported by dry tannins. It is bold, a little rough around the edges.
Big, chunky, rubbery and loud, but also poised and fruity. The palate is fierce and full, with some scratch but also very lush and ripe flavors of jammy blackberry. Fruity to the max, with a chocolaty finish. A massive wine for $12.
Big, dark and bold, with smoky aromas of bacon and blackberry. The palate is firm and tannic, with wild berry flavors and weight that transitions into herbs, spice and licorice on the finish. A big wine that rounds together well.
Big, dark and brash, and very much in the modern California style, meaning it's rich, creamy, oaky and full-bodied. The nose brings toast, heat and potency, while the flavors are saturated, spicy and revolve around wild berry, tea, spice, caramel and savory warmth. Only gets better as it opens and airs; drink now through 2012.
Big, dark and masculine, with minty, chocolaty, robust aromas and plenty of residual oak. Calling this wine a “load” is an understatment; it's massive, with flavors of blackberry, gumball, cassis, pepper and mint. Finishes that way, too. A brawny wine that's in its prime. Drink now through 2013.
Big, dark and rich, the black-cherry fruit is veined with iron ore. That resonant minerality, along with zippy acids, makes this wine seem especially dry. Tannins are polished and flavors linger magnificently, with a mocha-java finish.
Big, dark tannins dominate this concentrated wine that is powerful, dry and firm. Under the structure lies a smoother layer of ripe plum and berry fruits. At 90% Malbec and 10% Merlot, it will certainly need more time to mature; drink from 2018.
Big, dark, earthy and rubbery, with hefty black fruit on the nose and palate. A generous wine with toasty blackberry, cassis and a sprinkle of chocolate, and then a smooth finish. Among value-priced wines from anywhere in the world this is more than one should expect. It's really a nice Cab.
Big, dark, sweet and jammy on the nose, with earthy, candied, sweet aromas of ripe blackberry and herbs. The palate delivers bouncy, showy acidity, while the flavors of black cherry, dark plum and chocolate are solid and rewarding. A little pruney on deeper inspection, with a leathery quality to the wine's depth. Drink now through 2013.
Big, deep and hard in tannins, this wine shows the estate's power and concentration, bearing blasts of cherries, currants, persimmons and cola. The flavors are pinpointed with laserlike focus, with hints of cocoa powder and tamari. It should begin to open by 2017, and develop for many years afterward.
Big, dense and complex, this is still young. It has the weight of tannin as well as dark fruits offering a rich and ageworthy structure. As it opens, the wine is packed with dried fruits, licorice and dark coffee. This is a wine for keeping at least four more years.
Big, dense wine, with dusty tannins and ripe red plum fruits. The wine is concentrated, fruity while also structured. It is already balanced, the acidity giving freshness, the texture showing the delicious ripe character of the vintage.
Big, dry and tannic wine, this is a dense and structured wine. Black chocolate and coffee flavors suggest extraction shows strongly in the tough texture. The wine will be filled out as the black fruits develop, so wait until 2018.
Big, dusty tannins are forward on this firmly structured wine. Very dense in its character and style, serious and dark, it will develop slowly as its more juicy side begins to show through.
Big, dusty tannins dominate this rich and opulent wine. With black plum and juicy red berries, it is well balanced, the acidity cutting through to point up the richness. Very ready to drink, but it will age. Drink now and until 2020.
Big, extracted and clumsy on first blush, with raisin and prune preceding chocolate on the nose. The palate is big and tannic, with chocolate and baked berry flavors. Finishes full, toasty and grabby, with mocha and vanilla. Drink now through 2012.
Big, fat Pinot Gris, with the typical spice and ripe fruit. The wine is full and round, attractively filled with peach fruits and a hint of fine acidity. Screw cap.
Big, firm and dense, this is a powerful wine, with dark tannins that give a dry, concentrated character. The juicy plum and damson fruit flavors, along with the fresh aftertaste, will be a delicious balance as the wine develops. Drink from 2020.
Big, firm tannins dominate this structured wine. New wood aging shows, giving a very dry feeling. It's also rich and full in the mouth, packed with ripe black plum and berry flavors. It's going to balance well and richly. Drink from 2018.
Big, firm tannins frame this wine, blended with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Black olive, black pepper and tar provide a savory density and complexity, softened by earthy plum and black cherry.
Big, firmly tannic wine, smoky and warm, with great swathes of black currant fruit. It is firmly structured, but it is the rich sweet fruits that are the attraction.
Big, floral, ripe and juicy, this epitomizes the richness of the 2009 vintage. It offers firm tannins and generous, forward fruits.
Big, fresh and juicy, this is a bright and forward wine. Attractive smoky tannins are layered with fresh acidity and black currant flavors. The wine is already attractive, although there are enough tannins for it to age. Drink from 2017.
Big, fresh, grapy aromas are the greeting on this nice but generic Malbec. The palate is plump and chunky yet bright and fruit-forward, with creamy flavors of dark plum and berry. A clean, focused, short finish functions as a good close.
Big, friendly and wrapped in a lot of chocolatey oak. The fruit is forward and light, and it is just big enough to hang in there with all the barrel flavors. —P.G.
Big, fruity and juicy, this is a wine for drinking soon. It has lively acidity, a strong black-currant fruit character and light tannins. Already well integrated, it's a wine that accentuates freshness.
Big, fruity ripe wine that also keeps the flinty, mineral nature of fine Chablis. The texture is creamy, with wood over peaches and apricots. But the acidity cuts through this rounded fruit like a sharp knife, giving shape and preserving the true freshness of the wine.
Big, fruity wine, with layers of fruit, earth, toast and oak. Spicy cranberry/raspberry fruit leads into toasty, dry tannins. There is a lovely density, buttressed with new oak, but anchored with ripe, firm fruit. Lovely winemaking.
Big, fruity, mature wine, showing a petrol character as well as a rounded texture and a shot of minerality. The wine is both chewy and generous, packed with fruit skins and green bean-acidity. It is ready to drink, very fresh.
Big, full-bodied and very much a product of the 2010 vintage, this structured, generous wine needs time. The dry tannins are still prominent, giving a tough edge to the more generous, concentrated fruits. Drink from 2018.
Big, full-bodied wine, the great tannins dominating the underlying red fruit. It's firmly concentrated, intense, a powerhouse of dense texture and obviously a wine that will need aging. Give it 5–6 years.
Big, full bodied and concentrated, this is a ripe, rich wine. Ripe plum flavors are balanced with nervy acidity and dense tannins. This is a wine that will still need to age, so don't drink before 2017.
Big, full, ripe and black as night, this may be the best Apartado Gran Malbec to date. With ripe berry weight and fresh acidity, this is in fine balance. Toasty, blackened flavors of blackberry finish deep, smooth and dense. While this cuts no new ground, it's a delicious, well-made, power Malbec. Drink through 2022.
Big, hard tannins and high alcohol mark this Zinfandel. Bone dry, it's stuffed with blackberry jam, sage and black pepper flavors that finish spicy and long. It's an excellent example of the Maple Vineyard terroir, and calls for pairing with rich barbecue and fatty fare.
Big, hearty fruit flavors and full body without a lot of tannin make this wine appealing and a good match for meaty dishes from carne asada burritos to pot roast. It's probably no coincidence considering the brand name that it has lots of oak flavor, adding vanilla and other spices.
Big, heavy, extracted, tannic and dry. That pretty much sums up this blend of all five Bordeaux varieties, with Petit Verdot in the majority. It's potent in blackberry and black currant flavors, with an undertow of minerals. Should age well over the next eight years, without necessarily becoming more distinguished.
Big, herbal and rich on the nose, with minerality and a lot of olive and black-fruit aromas. The palate is round, full-bodied and chewy, with ample oak, herbal flavors and blackberry. Tasty, robust and not short on oak and herbal notes. In a word, it's Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon.
Big, juicy and smoky, this powerful wine comes from vines in the center of the vineyard. Black fruits and firm tannins dominate the richness of the wine with its dark structure and concentration. A touch of chocolate and licorice partners with the generous fruits. Drink from 2024.
Big, juicy fruit, bolstered by tannins, gives this wine weight and impressive structure. There is a dry core surrounded by ripe plums, herbs and fresh spices , resulting in soft, juicy freshness. But those tannins promise aging potential.
Big, jumbled and foxy, with forced berry aromas. Feels full and bulky, with roasted, herbal flavors that suggest cherry and cassis. Mildly astringent and chalky feeling on the finish.
Big, leathery and spicy, this wine is burly and robust on the palate, with layers of flavor. Bursts of blueberry cobbler find their way around subtle streaks of dried herb.
Big, lush and tightly structured, with cola and mocha aromas along with serious black fruit power and brightness. A pure and delicious Malbec-Cabernet wine with the full allotment of berry character, cola accents, dark spice and clarity. Drink now through 2014.
Big, meaty and broad, with thick, masculine coal, pepper and blackberry aromas. This marks a nice comeback for Abadia Retuerta, which had some weak wines in 2002 and '03; this single-vineyard Syrah is lush, loaded and bursting with char, chocolate and deep fruit. It has size, power and balance pulling it in the right direction. Probably better in another year or so.
Big, meaty and dense, with dampness, earth and size. This is your typical deep and chewy wine, but the structure and core qualities are just above average. Flavors of black cherry, plum and brown sugar are good, while the finish shows a creamy vanilla flavor and cola. Good but not great for the price.
Big, muscular and herbal, with olive, spice and driving black fruit aromas. The acidity is high-toned and elevated, so the palate is jumpy and electric, with raspberry and currant flavors. Delivers a jolt and tang, but overall the flavors and harmony are good.
Big, oaky and concentrated, it's rich in coffee and leathery toffee, the tannins firm and feisty.
Big, oaky and roasted up front, with charred aromas. The palate is full but clacky, with piercing acidity leading to a saucy, sharp set of tangy red berry and herb flavors. There's a chocolaty element to smooth things out on the finish, but it's always snappy and sheer.
Big, oaky and toasty on the nose, and then zesty and pithy in the mouth, with citrus, tangerine, lemon and not much else. Call it a one-trick pony and get ready for citrusy flavors and little variation on that theme. The good thing is, for a Maule Chard it plays its hand right.
Big, plush and modern, this blockbuster Riserva delivers full and generous tones of black fruit, molasses, spice and pipe tobacco. It great length fueled by polished tannins and chewy depth. From an organic vineyard about 10 miles from Florence.
Big, powerful and confidently ripe, this full-bodied wine oozes with luscious blackberry, wild sage and blueberry flavors that seemingly melt in the mouth. A great example of the late harvest style without being sweet, it's dry, concentrated and persistent on the finish.
Big, powerful and flashy, this is made in the modern cult style, showing ripeness, high alcohol and oakiness. The blackberry and cassis flavors are classic Napa, while the texture is smooth and mellow, but as heady as cognac.
Big, powerful brush strokes of ripe fruits, spice and rich creaminess paint this wine with vividness. The fruit envelops the mouth, the pears, green plums and ripe apples working with a citrus edge. Impressive, and with a great finishing freshness.
Big, powerful wine that is restrained by its ripe, dusty tannins. It is concentrated, with an almost Port-like texture, a result of the open lagars in which it is fermented. The fruit is likely to be rich and opulent as the tannins move into balance.
Big, powerful, dominated by dark tannins and dense fruit. The alcohol is apparent in the burnt rubber edge, although the richness of the fruit, with its bitter chocolate edge, does help to mask it. The acidity at the end gives freshness.
Big, powerful, soft, rich and ageable. In other words, classic Etude Heirloom. Resembles the rich 2002, with massive flavors of cherries, raspberries, cocoa, anise, bacon and smoky sandalwood. Enormously complex, a wine that changes with every sip as it breathes and warms. Shows the density of Cabernet, with Pinot's silkiness. Now–2014.
Big, raisiny and obtuse up front, this fully extracted Malbec is heavy on the palate, with raisin, prune and cassis flavors that show interior notes of green herbs. This tastes minty, herbal and hot on the finish, with barely any freshness.
Big, rich and bold, this is a finely concentrated wine that's marked by the freshness of the year. It's likely to develop quickly and be ready next year.
Big, rich and complex, this is a Cabernet you want to lay down. Tasted in the late Fall of 2013, it's tannic, oaky and dry, brimming with spectacularly ripe blackberry, cherry and cassis flavors. The alcohol is a bit high, giving the wine some heat, and yet the balance is so good that the wine should easily develop over the next eight years.
Big, rich and creamy, this has white and yellow fruits and a full-bodied mouthfeel. It is ripe and rounded, with its acidity showing through to the finish. It needs a year in the bottle.
Big, rich and dense, this Pinot Noir shows massive, in-your-face flavors of oak, raspberry-cherry jam and chocolate. You can give this a few years of aging or try decanting, but it seems best enjoyed soon for its sheer youthful power.
Big, rich and elegant, this wine has fine, lifted black fruits layered over dry new wood and fruit tannins. It is certainly firm, and needs at least 4–5 years' aging, but it will develop into a sophisticated, balanced wine.
Big, rich and extracted, this Syrah is a bit heavy and ponderous now. It shows soft flavors of melted blackberry jam, plum liqueur, dark chocolate, grilled meat and smoky oak, liberally dusted with black pepper. Fancy, but could use through 2009 to knit together.
Big, rich and flashy, this is a wine of fruit-driven power. The notes of cherries, blackberries and currants are strong and jammy, and it's oaky, too. The finish is tannic and dry, so you may want to cellar it for a couple of years.
Big, rich and fruity, this wine has a powerful future. It delivers structure and dense tannins, but it's the generous fruitiness that promises much. The tannins will soften by 2016–2017 to give a ripe, full-bodied wine, packed with fruit.
Big, rich and fruity, with fantastically ripe cherry and Dr. Pepper flavors that are elevated by a note of sweet sandalwood, and brightened with crisp acidity. Impresses for sheer power, as well as the long, spicy finish. This is too young to drink now; it needs 5–6 years to mellow.
Big, rich and heavy in its youth, this Pinot has a Rhône-like feeling; its cherry and currant flavors suggest Grenache. Yet for that style, it's a good wine, showing cherry, currant and pine cone flavors that lend interest. A smoky grilled steak or pork will negociate its tannins, but you might want to age it for up to eight years.
Big, rich and oaky, this is marked by buttered toast, orange cream and pineapple custard flavors.
Big, rich and oaky, this is packed with flavors of buttered toast, buttered popcorn, honey and tropical fruit flavors. It's a ripe, flashy wine, with broad appeal. Drink with opulent fare, like shellfish risotto or crab in drawn butter.
Big, rich and off-dry, this is powered by intense spiciness and rounded texture. Lychees dominate the fruit profile, giving an opulent feel to the aftertaste. Drink now.
Big, rich and painted in broad brush strokes, San Martino is a meaty, fleshy wine you can sink your teeth into. It offers clean notes of cherry candy, licorice and resin and follows through with gritty texture and crisp notes of bright fruit on the close.
Big, rich and powerful, this uses grapes sourced from a small section of the Corton hill that's close to Charlemagne. It has the ripe pineapple and apricot flavors to go with the acidity. With its enormous concentration, this is ready to age over at least 10 years.
Big, rich and rewarding, this wine opens with a bouquet of honeysuckle and apple blossom. It offers high acidity and robust oak in equal, complementary measure, as melon, apple and caramel flavors weigh in the smoothly textured palate.
Big, rich and ripe, this is packed with intense black fruits and dark tannins, with the solid structure yielding a dense core. Its fruit is balanced by acidity, giving the wine ­essential lift. Age for 4–5 years.
Big, rich and rounded, this is as much a wine about sweet tropical fruits as about spiciness. It has weight, concentration and a full, honeyed character. For the wine to fully integrate, it should be aged over 3–4 years.
Big, rich and sappy, this tastes like cherry and raspberry jam that has been boiled down and made into wine—a suggestion of its youth. It is very fine, with keen acidity and a noble structure tinged with minerality. Give it 3–5 years to age.
Big, rich and vital, this has a cherry flavor, with herb, mushroom and cola notes that give the wine an earthy complexity. There's also a lot of oak influence in the form of a sweet buttered-toast note. Give this time in a decanter, and serve now with steak or beef-based Mexican fare.
Big, rich fruits dominate this impressive wine that also has a concentrated structure of tannins that give power. Full of rich Alicante Bouschet, it is a warm, ripe and rounded wine that still could age. Drink from 2017.
Big, rich while also smooth, this is going to be a impressive wine. It has power and firm tannins as well as plenty of ripe black fruits and acidity. This wine, from one of the range of grand crus in Vosne-Romanée, will age well. Drink from 2026.
Big, rich wine, packed with spice, ripe peach and mango flavors. Designated a Library Wine by Knoll, it is complex, ageworthy, with a weight of both fruit and pepper to it. Keep this powerful wine for at least another 2–3 years.
Big, rich, almost velvet in texture, this is a powerful wine. It has spice, black berry fruits, layers of wood and black plum skins. Powerful wine for long-term aging and medium-term accessibility.
Big, rich, and dramatic are just a few words that describe this 100% Cabernet grown on the low-yielding estate vineyard in Coombsville. It's lush with black currants, yet bracing in tannins, with a minerality that makes it feel firm and grounded. The barrels are 100% new French oak, lending a savory level of char and vanilla. This is clearly a wine to cellar for a long time. Start enjoying it in 2018, and it is likely to develop bottle complexity throughout the 2020s.
Big, rich, dense wine, packed with dark tannins and blackberry fruits. The wine has concentration, layering wood aging with youthful acidity that shines through the structure. An impressive wine that needs aging for at least five years.
Big, rich, dusty tannins and black plum fruits are built on a firm layer of wood. There is a fresh mint character as well, giving the wine a polished and spicy feel. With the wood and the acidity, this needs aging: 3–4 years and more.
Big, rich, extracted and just beautiful. It's a high-octane Zin, with high alcohol and ripe, spicy flavors, making it a classic example of its type. Just massive in blackberries, black cherries, beef teriaki, cola, pepper, Indian spices and sandalwood. Drink this decadently good wine from now–2013.
Big, rich, jammy Shiraz, soft and sweet in blackberry and cherry jam, cola, caramelized wood and bacon flavors. This lusty red wine will be a good companion to barbecue.
Big, rich, soft and full-bodied, this 100% Cab impresses for the sheer depth of its blackberries, currants, chocolate and minerals. The inky black color testifies to its extreme youth, as does the freshness of flavor. Nowhere near drinkable now, it wants at least six years, and could be going strong in 2022.
Big, rich, thick, showing all the hallmarks of a wine that means business. Very great from a Petite Sirah point of view, massively constructed in blackberries, cherries, blueberries, anise, coffee, cocoa and spices, with firm, rich tannins, and the briary, slightly rustic mouthfeel that characterizes the variety. Really good now, with decanting, and should develop in the bottle for many years.
Big, richly fruity and quite tannic, this concentrated wine pulls off good balance, as the ripeness and near-sweetness of the fruit flavors seems to dissolve some of the firm grip in the texture. Aromas like tobacco, pencil lead and cedar keep coming as the wine opens up in the glass.
Big, ripe and a touch earthy, this wine embraces dried fruit flavors, full body, firm tannins and broad, mouth-filling texture. Dried plum and black cherry flavors follow toasty, oaky, new leather aromas.
Big, ripe and bold, this powerful wine is dense with acidity and black fruits in equal measure. With its dark, tannic aftertaste, it's a wine to age further. Drink from 2015.
Big, ripe and delicious, this is packed with spice and sweet apricot fruits. It's full and opulent, very much a wine of 2009, yet it retains its sense of balance and structure.
Big, ripe and fruity, this wine balances its rich fruits with firm tannins. A dry core gives shape to the blackberry fruit flavors, offering aging potential. Drink from 2016.
Big, ripe and juicy, this solidly based wine also has great fruitiness. Black fruits, some bitter chocolate and licorice point to ripeness and wood aging. It has a rich texture, its spiciness bringing out the plum and damson fruits. For aging over the medium-term, drink from 2017.
Big, ripe and juicy, this wears its rich black fruits right up front. A strong and firmly tannic structure serves as a background to the fruit. The wine is rich, complex and full of potential. Spice, ginger and nutmeg come through at the end along with the fruit. Drink from 2022.
Big, ripe and juicy, with some overripenes veering into raisins, but it gives a rich plummy edge to the wild berries, tobacco and spice. Drink this impressive Zinfandel with roasts and beef stews.
Big, ripe and opulent, its ripe tannins balanced by perfumed red fruits. There is a solid core of dark and smoky dryness, a center that promises good aging. Already, though, the wine is showing its concentration and richness.
Big, ripe and perfumed, this is a solid and tannic wine. The perfumes give the wine its immediate attractiveness but the firm tannins and the generous black fruits fill the wine and give it some potential. Drink from 2019.
Big, ripe and rich with gusto, this Zin, from century vines that probably contain other field varieties, shows a myriad of wild cherry, boysenberry, mulberry, licorice, black pepper and smoky oak flavors. Very refined and enjoyable for its depth and complexity.
Big, ripe and smoky, this wine is generous while having great freshness. It's packed with fresh strawberries and raspberries along with powerful tannins. The combination of structure and great fruit will allow this wine to age. Drink from 2022.
Big, ripe and spicy, with tobacco and herbal flavors alongside the black currant intensity and powerful acidity. It is rich while the austere tannins of the Baga grape are still young. Keep for 2–3 years.
Big, ripe and surprisingly fat for 2006 Chablis, this wine goes for the yellow fruits as well as minerality. It offers full flavors, an up-front fruitiness tempered by a creamy backdrop. Age for 1–2 years.
Big, ripe fruit emerging from soft, dusty-textured tannins makes this a wine that is already pleasurable. Black fig and plum juice fruits roll comfortably around the mouth, balancing well, and maturing quickly.
Big, ripe waves of baked apple, pear and pineapple play on the palate in this rich wine, measured by a moderate helping of acidity. Quince and lime play supportive roles.
Big, ripe, almost exotic, this has developed impressively over the past 18 months. Its tannins are certainly huge, but so is the fruit, warm, rich and enticing. Very powered, it thrusts black currants and acidity right up front.
Big, ripe, chocolaty wine, with lots of forward, smooth, oaky flavors. Easy to like, with a plush, creamy mouthfeel, and tons of new oak flavor.
Big, ripe, colorful and attractive, with leather and earth on the nose. The mouthfeel is a touch clanky, while the black fruit palate is broad and masculine as it shows a few holes in the fabric. With vanilla and mocha late, this is a nice Malbec with full tannins and grip.
Big, ripe, fruity wine, very pure and fresh. The black currant fruits give richness, following through with some black chocolate flavors and dry tannins. It will develop quickly, and the fruit is already delicious.
Big, ripe, generous, this wine is on the rich side of the 2006 vintage. At this stage, it offers peach and apricot, with honeyed yeast flavors. The minerality crispens the texture, while black pepper and firm tannins suggest aging ability.
Big, ripe, rich and well-oaked. That pretty much says it all about this show-offy wine, with its bold, tropical fruit flavors, crisp coastal acidity and sleek structure. The tart taste of minerally gunmetal adds complexity.
Big, ripe, tannic and structured wine. It has rich black plum and chocolate flavors, very berry in its fruit. The dry core and wood flavors give smoothness to the texture. It would be worth aging this wine, so drink from 2015.
Big, roasted, stalky berry aromas are more saucy than bright and focused. This is a bulky, thick warm-vintage wine without a lot of acidic cut. Flavors of loamy, baked berry and fig finish soft, spicy and baked. Drink now.
Big, robust and fleshy on the palate, this Pinot Noir is packed with cherry, cranberry and Dr. Pepper flavors. It should mellow in 6–7 years.
Big, robust and powerful, this inky wine has wonderfully complex and assertive flavors, along with a thick, velvety and tannic texture. Flavors of espresso, dark chocolate and blueberries rush across the palate, linger in the chewy texture and last on the long finish. A bit bold to fully enjoy now, this will be best after 2019.
Big, round and lush, this is the fourth vintage for this wine, one of the best Chardonnays in Washington state. In this vintage it did not go through full malolactic, leaving a nice underlying acidity with a leesy, creamy freshness. Golden apples, stone fruits and a lick of butterscotch add to the luscious, generous finish.
Big, rowdy flavors like rhubarb and black cherries seem to fill this medium-bodied wine to the rim. Made from an unusual clone smuggled into the U.S. and whole cluster fermentation, it has richness, moderate tannins, and a broad mouthfeel, with little oak flavor showing through.
Big, slightly soupy berry aromas are touched up by oak as well as notes of plastic and latex. This feels drawing, tannic and rough. Flavors of tomato, plum, herbs and spice end with sandpaper tannins and heat.
Big, smoky and charred, with a rubbery blackberry note lurking in the background, it feels chewy, thick and dense, with a roasted black-fruit flavor, a baking spice note and a toasted, rooty aftertaste that suggests root beer.
Big, smoky and concentrated on the nose, this has a ton of black fruit and char notes. This is mouth-filling, deep and powerful stuff, with a potent mash of baked blackberry, molasses and barbecue sauce filling in the flavor profile. It finishes long and roasted, with savory oak and saucy spice flavors. A blend of 85% Garnacha and 15% Monastrell.
Big, smoky dark-berry aromas come with no small amount of graphite, pencil eraser and baked notes. This feels chewy and earthy, while roasted flavors of smoked meats, blackberry and molasses finish jammy, with brown sugar accents.
Big, smoky fruit and a nicely honed structure combine well in this full-bodied wine with touches of red cherry and berry and toasted wood.
Big, solid, firm wine, with an edge that is a little farmyard. It has weight, though, along with smoky, fruity flavors of black plums.
Big, spicy wine with its dark tannins and black fruit. Dark chocolate flavors go with the fruit, a rich and complex array of flavors that bring in herbs and spices as well as wood. Age for another 1–2 years.
Big, stacked, deep and dark Malbec. The nose is rich, spicy and black in character, while the palate is bulky and shows generous blackberry, dark plum and chocolate flavors. Holds steady on the finish as it delivers muscle as well as some complexity. Well-made wine for the money.
Big, structured and solid, with powerful dense fruit, this is packed with plum juice flavors. The wine feels chunky, while the acidity keeps everything in proportion.
Big, structured tannins lie over the ripe fruit. The wine has a dense character, the young tannins dominant. Given a year, the fine fruit will come through to give a sweeter blackberry character.
Big, sturdy and extracted in blackberries, black currants and molasses, with a meaty edge, almost like a Syrah. The tannins are thick and furry and astringent, but the wine is flashy and complex. Hard now, but give it 5–6 years, and it could age well beyond that.
Big, sweet and deep in black fruits, with aromas of turned earth and sweet spices. The palate is tannic and heavy but offers good pop, and the flavors of blackberry and cola are full-force. Finishes thick and dark, with toasty spice notes and kick.
Big, sweetened tannins reminiscent of tobacco and leather pouch sit atop cedar, herb and vanilla. The fruit is both red and black, true to the vineyard and this area of the Russian River.
Big, tannic and foursquare, this is archetypal Pommard. The dark plum and black fig flavors and the rich tannins all contribute to a wine that is solid, concentrated, dense and needs at least four years' aging.
Big, tannic and fruity, giving an intense structure of black plums laced with sweet raspberries. It exudes richness and power, generous while also firm.
Big, tannic and true to type, this wine has flavors like blackberry and black pepper, and a mouthfeel that is dry and somewhat astringent. It will be very good with a hamburger or pork tenderloin.
Big, tight and tannic, this is a full-fledged dinner wine that needs to pair with a nice caloric veal shank or lasagna. It's made with 80% Syrah, so the color is almost black, the aromas are spicy and smoky and the flavors feature black cherry, espresso and dark chocolate. The texture is both mouth filling and a bit astringent due to hefty tannins.
Big, toasty and brooding at first, this calms down and becomes a glass of pleasing dark fruits and soft tannins, with a lilt of spice. A fine midweek wine that will pair with a range of meats and taste perfectly good on its own.
Big, toothsome wine, chewy and assertive. Cline fans will recognize the style: brambly, peppery, with enormous vitality and punch. Bright, spicy fruit backed with good acids and just enough toast.
Big, tough and totally dry, this has blackberry and currant flavors. It was grown in the southerly Coombsville area, showing good acidity. It's already throwing some sediment, but all bets are off for whether or not it ages.
Big, tough, gutsy, fruity, tannic. In other words, Petite Sirah, and classic at that. Shows very ripe, deep and long-lasting flavors of blackberries, blueberries, currants, chocolate, cedar and spices, in a bone-dry, full-bodied red wine. Good now, and should develop over a decade.
Big, upfront flavors mark this Cabernet, providing big blackberry, black cherry, mocha, vanilla and toast notes. It's very dry, tannic and a little aggressive at this time. It could develop bottle complexity over the years.
Big, woodsy aromas of cedar plank, exotic spices and charred black fruits open this Uruguayan Tannat, which is wide and lush in feel. Heavily oaked flavors of clove and char render blackberry and plum fruit as secondary, while additional clove and resiny flavors finish off this chewy, plump berry ball.
Big, yet creamy in texture and refined, with plenty of silky tannins to frame the superripe black cherry fruit. Just lacks a little complexity, but still a very good, juicy mouthful of fruit and oak. Drink now–2013.
Bigger, bolder swathes of fresh grapefruit, gooseberry and citrus distinguish the Katherine's Field from it's sister bottling, the Life Force. Fermented in stainless steel, it's a more primary, forward expression of fruit but with an equally refreshing backbone of acidity. Hints of dusty oyster shell and lime pith lend nuance to the finish. Drink now through 2019.
Bigger, richer, oaken and more structured than T-L's regular Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this cuvée flirts with being just too much. Vanilla, cedar and plum cake aromas, licorice, plum, and cocoa on the palate have a lot to recommend them, while the muscular midpalate and firmness of the tannins on the finish suggest agreeability but not much charm. Try after 2020?
Bigode, meaning the mustache, is fruity, fresh and light in texture. The juicy character needs another few months to integrate fully with the berry fruits. Spice adds interest. It will be better by the end of 2014.
Bigode, the mustache, is a soft and juicy wine, light in texture with strong acidity. Red berry fruits are prominent, fragrant and perfumed. Drink now.
Bill Easton's “large” production GSM (Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre) blend out of the Sierra Foothills exhibits intense mushroom and licorice notes and makes for a great first entry into Easton's headier wines. An affordable Rhône-red pairing with earthy dishes.
Bill Easton's Mourvèdre features a combination of bright, ripe strawberry and savory herbal tea. It is medium bodied, with a distinctly peppery finish.
Bill Easton doesn't make this dessert wine every year, so when he does, especially of this caliber, it's a good time to pick up some of this deliciously balanced dessert delight. It's a very nuanced rendering of crisp, clean peach, pear and honey flavors that would go well with fruit desserts or anything involving almond paste.
Bill Foley named this wine after his wife, who works with disadvantaged children, so you can expect it to be a winner. The nose is quite distinctive, a whirlwind of smoke, seared pear, citrus blossom, squeezed Meyer lemon and rain on slate. It's a refreshing breeze to drink, with toasted nuts, cooked apples, a hint of butter and a chalky grip.
Bill Price's ongoing partnership with winemaker Gavin Chanin continues full steam with this deceptively light, mineral-laden wine that nonetheless exudes the power of Durell. Aromas of buttery oak and toasted marshmallow play tricks on the nose before a salty, tropical, medium-bodied, waxy and exotic palate confounds. Subtle acidity belies firm structure. Drink now through 2021.
Bill Price's Sonoma-based winery name checks this historic Santa Maria vineyard in this epic bottling, which shows red cherry, raspberry, rhubarb, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg and cola on the nose. It's amazingly energetic on the palate, with more ripe raspberries and cherries, but also a vivid spice rack of clove and peppercorn, as well as noticeable tannic grip.
Bill Smith is better known for his Pinot Noirs, but he founded La Jota and knows a thing or two about Howell Mountain Cabs. This is a big, dry, tannic mountain wine, virtually undrinkable now for its hard astringency. However, it's a fine cellar candidate. Brims with ripe blackberries and cherries that just need time. Should begin to open in 2008, and develop for another 8 years or so.
Billards is the name of a small area of Saint-Amour. The cru wine from this vineyard is richly structured and packed with juicy black fruits. There is a mineral texture from the granite subsoil that gives the wine its structure. Drink from late 2017.
Billecart-Salmon's style is dry, so an Extra Brut will be almost bone-dry. This wine is crisp and tight, bringing out grapefruit and citrus flavors and a steely, mineral character. It is still young, with freshness dominant, and needs to mature to blossom into a very fine Champagne. Drink from 2018.
Billed as a Cabernet lover's Merlot, this wine offers robustness as well as a soft, angular quality that provides a certain level of elegance. Oak, green olive and sage mark its bouquet, followed by flavors of red currant and dried herb.
Billed as a dessert wine, this is in fact more of an apéritif wine, with its botrytis sweetness muted by a soft, open character. It has ripe apricot flavors, hints of honey and a tang of orange peel.
Billed as a Riesling blend, this white has plenty of petrol on the nose to give it intrigue, followed by a dry, crisp and sharp sensibility of grapefruit pith and savory lime.
Billed as Extra Brut, the wine in fact tastes closer to the sweeter Brut because there is so much attractive apple and crisp pear fruitiness. The aftertaste is balanced, soft and creamy.
Billowing with scents of marmalade, wildflower honey and raspberry preserves, this is an intoxicatingly perfumed TBA, but the palate doesn't disappoint either. Rich and creamy with undulating streaks of peach preserve and tangerine, it lingers on and on, with its tea and honey-kissed finish.
Billowy tannins star in this blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Petit Verdot, 11% Malbec, 10% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. Smoky toast and tobacco form a foundation of prominent oak and tannin, softened by ripe layers of black cherry, blueberry and mocha.
Billowy, expansive tannins remain round and approachable on the palate of this generously ripe wine, juicy in black cherry and plum. The robust fruit is complemented by savory tinges of cedar and leather.
Billy Wathen and Dick Dore pick this cofermented blend of 85% Syrah and 15% Viognier together on the same day. The result is very savory, with resinous herbs and root beer on the nose. Once sipped, a rainbow of dark flavors emerges: chopped Italian herbs, creosote, black olive, fennel, soy and orange pith, reminiscent of a North African tagine.
Bin 389 is always a Cab-Shiraz, although the 2009 is only just, at 51% Cabernet and 49% Shiraz. This year's version is chocolaty and ripe, with plenty of weight and a slightly creamy feel. Cassis and vanilla notes fill out the palate, which finishes long, with an elegant texture akin to fine suede. Drink now–2025.
Bing cherries and cranberries are spiced with black cardamom on the slightly cough-syrupy nose of this wine. Iron and blood flavors show on the palate, with dried red cherries and rose petals.
Bing cherries rise to the top of the aroma profile, but the flavors, like many 2011s, appear unwilling to share themselves in any forward way, even after the wine is opened for some time. It necessitates much searching to get past the tart and lean vintage to find the limited but characteristic flavors of Pinot Noir.
Bing cherry meets soft vanilla and coffee tones on the nose of this southern-Italian transplant. A bouncy palate of red cherry and strawberry is supported by mild tannins.
Bing cherry, blackberry and hot black lava rock aromas arise on the nose of this expression of a dry-farmed vineyard. The palate is light compared to similar Zins, showing plum skins, tomato leaf and a heightened sense of minerality along with cherry-candy flavors.
Bing cherry, sweet vanilla and sawdust aromas ring on the nose of the first Merlot bottling from the winery. True to the variety, the palate shows ample plushness and mild tannins, with juicy red plum leading the way. This accessible red could be easily enjoyed solo.
Biodynamically-farmed, old vine fruit from the Eola Hills vineyard is the source. The wine is forward and tangy, with a Vouvray-like sweet/sour character. It could be Chenin Blanc, only just a bit lighter, but with the same tart and tasty mix of acid and sugar, with lemony fruit and floral highlights. Really tasty.
Biodynamically farmed Momtazi Vineyard is a favorite of several high-end Willamette Valley producers. Fresh cranberry and raspberry scents introduce a young wine still showing a blue shade around the rim. It's silky and sensuous, with blue plum, black cherry, dark chocolate and notes of earth and iron.
Biodynamically farmed, this young vineyard seems to improve with each new vintage. More and more you find an expression of soil details—delicate streaks of dried leaf, moist loam, a flavor of clay. The fruit is refined and perfectly ripe, without being fleshy. An elegant style, cellar-worthy but delicious already.
Biodynamically grown grapes give pure red fruits, with fresh berry flavors that are shot through with acidity. It has a generous feel, with a crisp texture that gives the necessary lift. Drink from 2017.
Biodynamically run, Château Tour des Gendres is at the top of the tree in Bergerac. This beautifully fruity wine shows freshness as well as depth of tannins, complex berry and bitter chocolate flavors. It is firm, but as a sign of the vintage, has a light character with final freshness.
Biondi-Santi performs exceptionally well in elegant vintages like 2006. This wine is balanced and fresh, with lingering notes of wild berry, white cherry, cola, spice and dark chocolate. Age this wine 10 years or more.
Birch Creek Vineyard provides the fruit for this stainless-steel-fermented and aged wine. It offers notes of custard, lees and herbs. The clover flavors show a richer feel but the concentration doesn't all seem to be there, trailing toward the finish.
Biscuit, burnt toast, and a hint of rubber dominate the nose. The fruit is light and somewhat buried—a little melon, unripe peach and pineapple. Perhaps too much barrel exposure, or over-toasted barrels?
Bisol (one of Prosecco's most important wineries) has crafted a beautiful 2007 sparkler from the precious Cartizze cru that delivers a long succession of delicate mineral, peach, citrus and honey aromas. The wine feels soft and soothing in the mouth but ends with lively acidity. The only drawback is its high price.
Bisquertt usually does well with its value-priced Merlots, and seeing that 2007 was an excellent vintage in Chile, this wine excels in the value price range. The nose is dark and saturated, but pure and inviting. And the palate is ripe and smooth, with spice, plum, blackberry and herb notes, particularly anise. Finishes clean, smooth and peppery. Drink now.
Biting acidity, tight with a tart edge, give this wine a seriously crisp character. It is all sharp edges, with grapefruit intensity and a final almond character.
Bitter black cherries are the hallmark of this rather hard-edged wine. It shows dark tannins and fruit that misses full richness. Maybe it is restrained power, maybe it will age, but the balance is not there now.
Bitter cherries and dark, tarry flavors mark this wood-aged Pinot Noir. There is a strong new wood character that gives some bitterness. The wine needs another year to soften.
Bitter cherries with some yeastiness give this wine a rich, while tight, character. It has a touch of vanilla, ripe red-berry fruits and an almond aftertaste. Drink now.
Bitter cherry flavors mark a wine that is light in texture, with attractive acidity and a soft, fruity red berry finish. Not for aging.
Bitter cherry fruits and firmer tannins dominate this serious, concentrated Pinot Noir. It has weight and a youthful bitterness that needs time to round out. The juiciness and the structure are both there for aging.
Bitter cherry, ripe berry fruits and some firm tannins are nicely blended in this forward, fruity wine. It has fresh acidity alongside black-currant fruit, ending on a spicy accent.
Bitter chocolate and dried apricots vie with each other in this curious wine. It is certainly too big and rich for its own good, a blockbuster of a wine, but without the complexity that could compensate. What is here are very ripe plums, and a layer of dry, bitter tannins.
Bitter chocolate aromas and woody flavors are the hallmarks of this smoky, burnt toast-inflected wine. That bitter quality probably won't go away, leaving the fruit behind.
Bitter extraction hinders this wine. It does have some attractive fruitiness in the background, but it's lost amidst all the toughness. The rigid edge will soften, although the wine's fruitiness may well never materialize.
Bitter lime peel and an elegant steeliness give structure to the sweet, fresh apples that dominate this off-dry style Riesling. Bright lemon-lime acidity leads to a mouthwatering pucker on the finish.
Bitter orange rind and spice notes accent layers of sweet honey, pineapple and mango in this lusciously sweet, silky ice wine. Strikes of lemon-lime acidity add zest and vibrance through a long, lingering finish.
Bitter tannins and heavy toast influence suggest a wine that has been heavily extracted. Rich and sweet-tasting, it has power and a solid, tannic presence.
Bitterly dry and high in acidity, this Grenache lacks the richness needed to satisfy. Its cherry, cola and oak flavors are thin, all on the surface, giving it a fast, rustic feel.
Bittersweet and youthful, this wine is overburdened by tannin and a weightiness of oak. Blackberry and gunpowder showcase its 100% varietal devotion, before more oak presents itself on the finish.
Bittersweet at first, with sizable tannins, this Cab also contains 13.8% Petit Verdot. Red and black berries give it a juicy palate atop dusty, chalky tannins and a richness of leather and clove on the finish.
Bixio offers a tight, compact expression of Amarone that seems bursting at the seams with fresh fruit, cherry and berry aromas. The wine is syrupy and thick in the mouth with a refreshing touch of acidity at the close.
Bizarre and unripe. Aromas of canned peaches with a strong note of the veggies, especially asparagus. The oaky overlay feels unnatural, with disembodied smoke and char flavors. Tart and acidic, and that vegetal taste returns to haunt the finish.
BJ Fazeli's blend of 30% Shiraz (the spelling is a nod to his Persian roots), 30% Petite Sirah, 26% Merlot and 14% Zinfandel offers deep blackberry, black pepper, dried purple flowers and a pinch of herbs on the nose. The black fruit of the palate is spiced heavily with cardamom and clove. The rising acidity and firm structure show most on the finish.
Björnson's Pinots are difficult to differentiate. This one is labeled Estate, but is also a barrel selection; the other is also estate but not labeled as such. Both offer medium-ripe berry and cherry fruit and a pleasant touch of new oak and both were aged in barrel for 11 months prior to bottling. This may have had a few more new barrels: at the moment it seems a bit toastier.
Blacedelle is a great introduction wine for those who are not familiar with Lagrein, a traditional grape variety found in the far north of Italy. The wine opens with inky dark concentration and continues with aromas of black fruit, blackberry pie, spice and cigar box.
Black-cherry-cola aromas along with lots of licorice and Dr Pepper spice show on the nose of this bottling from a relatively new winery in northeast Paso Robles. There is slight sweetness to the palate, with baked cherry and baking-spice flavors. Accents of dried blackberry, leather, dried meat and purple flower add complexity.
Black-cherry and currant flavors are concentrated but restrained in this full-bodied Bordeaux-style blend. Smoky, woody and a bit savory in style, it's abundantly oaky but should balance out neatly from 2020. Bold tannins and brisk acidity mark the finish.
Black-cherry and plum aromas are lush and ripe on the nose of this Hudson River Cab Franc. The palate, however, suggests a more elegant restraint, nuanced by hints of peppery greens and herbs. The long sleek finish is framed in fine, velvety tannins.
Black-cherry and plum aromas on the nose open to similar flavors, with toast and mineral accents on the palate. An elegant and refined wine, with a lengthy finish that displays cassis and earth flavors, and moderate, even tannins. Not a heavy or fat wine, it shows very good balance and should be cellared for three to five years.
Black-cherry aromas are dark and candied, with a slight chemical note. This feels choppy, with pounding acidity. Short, grapy flavors finish dense and clunky, with acidic tang and ultimately some bitterness.
Black-cherry aromas include a note of rubber. This wine feels raw, linear and monotone. Lean punchy flavors of plum and currant are tart, while this finishes with drying tannins and notes of tomato and herbs.
Black-cherry aromas meet with hints of tar and mineral on the restrained nose of this bottling from a historic property in the mountains behind Arroyo Grande. Tart black-plum skin, black raspberry and boysenberry show on the sip, framed by fine-grained, chalky tannins and lifted by a plummy earthiness and touches of dried mint, white sage and pepper.
Black-cherry compote rises on the entry of this wine that's medium in acidity and use of oak, with a punchy sense of sleek, savory fruit and baking spices. Friendly and fleshy, it's a meatier exploration of the variety by the producer, with a rounded, lengthy finish.
Black-cherry fruit and a soft tannic structure give this wine its fruity but firm character. It has plenty of ripe generous fruitiness that is sustained by the acidity and by the solid core of the wine. Drink starting from 2017.
Black-cherry fruit comes wreathed in light smoke, with a streak of root beer adding to the flavor. This is a wine of medium weight and concentration, with hints of fennel throughout.
Black-cherry fruit is decorated with crushed thyme, dried sage, roasted meat and cinnamon on the nose of this bottling. The palate offers more cherry fruit but also a bit of black-plum-skin tartness, as well as decent amounts of asphalt and turned earth.
Black-cherry fruit shows on the nose of this bottling by Silicon Valley veterans T.J. and Valeta Rodgers, but it is deftly hidden behind layers of earth and herbs, from dark clay and black pepper to budding violets and rosemary. The acidity is slowly simmering on the palate, unleashing flavors of dark chocolate, cinnamon, more rosemary, blackberry and pencil-lead minerality.
Black-cherry syrup and gravel touch the nose of this bottling from an estate in northern Paso owned by television producers. The palate shows clove and allspice as well as intriguing olallieberry and dark strawberry fruit, laid across a fairly tannic, asphalt-driven structure.
Black-cherry, plum and a mild creamy note characterize the nose. The palate is a nice combination of huckleberries and black cherries, all doused in chalk, white pepper and tree bark. Dry, woody tannins. Best Buy.
Black-currant aromas lead to a wine that has plenty of fruit even though it is masked by tannins at this stage. It's just in bottle after a year in oak barrels. So it is dry for now and will broaden out and bring in the black fruits as it develops. Drink from 2019.
Black-currant flavors are right up in the front of this wine. With some youthful stalkiness, it also has the potential for a really juicy character that is bright, almost crisp. A touch of perfume gives the wine a lift. Let it smooth out for a few months, so drink from early 2017.
Black-currant fruit and attractive acidity are layered with ripe, dark tannins and concentration. The potential is there, although it is likely be over the short term. Drink from 2018.
Black-currant, dark-plum and herb aromas are in the lead. The flavors are on the lighter side, with the oak seeming quite dialed back.
Black-fruit and red-berry aromas come with notes of green tobacco and freshly mowed grass. The palate on this blend of Tempranillo with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon is a bit scratchy, with lightly herbal flavors of blackberry, wood grain and pepper. A drying, tannic finish features notes of tobacco and oak-driven chocolate. Drink through 2024.
Black-fruit aromas along with floral violet notes are draped all over the nose on this impressive mondern-styled Rioja. A juicy, zesty palate is acidic but offers enough body to handle it, while flavors of plum, berry and oaky vanilla and chocolate finish warm but fairly quick. Drink  through 2020.
Black-fruit aromas are accented by notes of licorice, green herbs and grass. This is full and chunky, but a bit hollow in mouthfeel. Pronounced tartaric acidity results in surface-level pop along with hollowness, while lactic oak and coconut flavors on the finish are familiar for Argentine Cabernet.
Black-fruit aromas are forceful, toasty and gritty. It feels solid, fruity and full bodied, with black fruit flavors that come across ripe and generous. It's oaky but not overly so.
Black-fruit aromas are lively and encouraging. The mouthfeel is a touch clamped and narrow, but airing and aging should help things expand. Flavors of ripe plum and berry get a push from bright acidity, and on the finish this mix of Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cab Sauvignon and Graciano offers plenty of bounce and pulse. Drink through 2018.
Black-fruit aromas are made more complex by notes of leather and oak. This is full, blocky and tannic on the palate, with dark-fruit flavors of black plum and blackberry touched up by oak. A woody but long finish suggests that this will find its prime in a couple of years; drink through 2024.
Black-fruit aromas are matched and ultimately outweighed by oak-based chocolate and vanilla. This feels grabby and rubbery, with oaky flavors of plum, raspberry and vanilla. A creamy, resiny finish with chocolate and spice flavors wraps things up.
Black-fruit aromas are ripe and a little earthy. This is a thick yet jumpy wine with some aggression to the palate. Flavors of sweet, ripe berry fruits are basic and finish hot and toasty, with a coffee note.
Black-fruit aromas are spicy, with a note of cinnamon sticking out. This blend of Monastrell and Petit Verdot displays high acidity and related scratchiness on the palate. Tartness blends with plum and berry flavors, while this runs quick and tight on the finish.
Black-fruit aromas blend nicely into chocolate, vanilla and savory fig scents on the nose of this Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot blend. A dense, well-structured palate holds savory flavors of plum and baked berry fruits. A complex finish that revolves around mild oak and salty fruit flavors is lasting. Drink through 2023.
Black-fruit aromas come with notes of fresh-cut grass, rose petal and berry jam. The mouthfeel is creamy and sticky, with modest acidity. Ripe, rich flavors of berry fruits, cocoa and caramel finish jammy. Drink this tasty, saturated, soft-bodied Malbec through 2018.
Black-fruit aromas come with notes of leather, horsehide and mint. In the mouth, this is medium to full in body, with enough juicy acidity to preserve balance. Blackberry, cherry and stewed-plum flavors are sound on the finish.
Black-fruit aromas come with notes of rubber and smoke. Full and rugged feeling, the wine has juicy acidity and inherent raciness. Flavors of blackberry lean toward jammy, while subtle oak notes enhance this full-bodied, fruity red.
Black-fruit aromas include oaky notes of baking spices and vanilla. This Graciano is full in body, with bounce and depth. Dark-fruit flavors include chocolate and spice notes, while this is toasty and oaky but also racy and juicy on the finish. Drink through 2026.
Black-fruit aromas include overripe prune along with herbal hints. In the mouth, this Syrah-Merlot-Cabernet blend is pulling and tannic. Toasty oak, blackberry and barrel-based spice flavors finish dry as a bone, with roughness. Drink through 2020.
Black-fruit aromas of cassis and boysenberry are not overdone nor overoaked. Thie palate feels somewhat spiky and acidic, with a tartaric bite. A flavor profile comprised of salty berry fruits finishes briny and herbal, with good weight and balance.
Black-fruit scents combined with cheesy oak aromas are common for Toro. This wine has a wide, pulpy, grabby palate and flavors of black plum, herbal blackberry and savory meat. There's plenty of weight and substance, but it's also a bit stretched and bumpy along the way.
Black-olive tapenade is the star of this show, along with fig, black currant and cedar. Bittersweet cocoa accents the powerful tannin and integrated oak, before finishing velvety smooth.
Black-pepper-crusted beef, crushed graphite, dried mint, elderberries and blueberries show on the nose of this bottling. The palate reflects a juicy, fruit-forward style, with ripe mulberries and red plums lifted by star anise, clove and cinnamon.
Black-plum and apple-skin aromas are fruity and a bit raw. In the mouth, this blend of Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Carmenère and Petit Verdot is full, properly tannic and loamy in feel. Dark-leaning flavors of licorice, peppery spice, chocolate and herbs finish with classic Chilean notes of black olive and tobacco. Drink through 2019.
Black-plum extract and rust make for a intriguing nose from a rugged region, with wet-cement minerality and a deep allspice element emerging in the background. Dark cranberry and pomegranate fruit is lifted by dried sagebrush and woody cedar flavors on the palate.
Black-plum fruit is woven through smoke, slight juniper and eucalyptus on the nose of this bottling by Steve McIntyre, one of Monterey County's most respected growers. Black raspberry and tangy cherry flavors are warmed by vanilla and clove on the palate, complete with a tannic tension.
Black-purple in color, this is a deeply brambly and earthy wine, a blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Tempranillo. Intense and showy, it'll please palates that like upfront fruit and a luscious, near-lascivious mouthfeel.
Black-skinned berry, cedar and espresso scents lead the nose of this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. The firm palate delivers blackberry, and licorice flavors and a toasted note, set against assertive tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
Black-skinned berry, grilled herb and balsamic aromas meld together in the glass. On the ripe juicy palate, notes of cinnamon, white pepper, star anise and chopped herb accent the fruity core of black cherry and crushed raspberry. Velvety tannins and fresh acidity provide the framework. Drink 2018–2027.
Black-skinned berry, menthol, aromatic herb and dark spice are some of the aromas you'll find on this generous red. The firm palate shows juicy black cherry, fleshy plum, clove, sage and black pepper. It's sleek and balanced, with polished tannins. Drink through 2018.
Black-skinned berry, pipe tobacco and Mediterranean herb aromas waft out of the glass and carry over to the firm linear palate along with morello cherry, licorice and a hint of clove. Taut fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity provide the backbone while orange peel marks the finish. Drink 2019–2025.
Black-skinned berry, tilled soil and baking spice aromas lead the way in this wine. Made from very old vines, it delivers blackberry, star anise and clove flavors alongside round tannins and fresh acidity. Enjoy through 2021.
Black-skinned fruit and violet aromas lead the nose of this Lambrusco. The zesty palate doles out tangy mouthfuls of dried black cherry, prune and graphite notes, all set against a backdrop of brisk acidity.
Black-skinned fruit, blue flower and Oriental spice aromas come together in the glass. The bright, savory palate doles out black cherry, blackberry jam and black pepper alongside soft tannins and fresh acidity.
Black-skinned fruit, charred earth and a whiff of leather lead the nose. Ripe and straightforward, the palate offers dried black cherry, tobacco and a whiff of licorice alongside chewy tannins. Drink through 2021.
Black-skinned fruit, cooking spice and balsamic aromas come together in this solid, straightforward Brunello. On the palate, firm, close-grained tannins frame black cherry jam, clove and vanilla flavors. Drink 2018–2022.
Black-skinned fruit, iris, espresso, dark spice and a balsamic note all meld together in the glass along with a whiff of chopped herb. The firmly structured palate doles out ripe black cherry, raspberry jam, toast, roasted coffee bean and a hint of oak-driven spice alongside fine-grained tannins.
Black-skinned fruit, pressed violet and a whiff of chopped herbs lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The bold palate offers high-toned flavors of ripe black cherry, black raspberry, mint and a hint of fig uplifted by fresh acidity. Firm, velvety tannins give it a smooth texture.
Black-skinned fruit, underbrush and game aromas lead the nose of this wine. The round, simple palate evokes mature black cherry and clove. Drink soon.
Black and charred at first, with licorice, asphalt and a touch of bacon on the bouquet. The palate is soft, soupy and round, with ripe, saturated berry and fig flavors. Finishes spicy and full, with chewy tannins and ample extract.
Black and green olive tapenade and ripe plum come together around a soft, juicy yet ultimately tannic expression of the variety, given 14% Malbec and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon as worthy complements.
Black and purple fruit, toast, herb and spice aromas lead to abundant cherry flavors, tart acids and well-integrated tannins. Overall, this wine shows a lovely sense of balance, with a fleshy midpalate piquing the interest.
Black and thick, a study in smoky oak and tar, this intense vineyard-designated Cabernet will behave better over time. Brawny tannins surround substantial layers of blackberry and coffee, the feel on the palate weighty and voluptuous. Cellar through 2026.
Black and thick, this Petite Sirah delivers on all the variety's attributes in warm-climate California. It's blisteringly gregarious yet rounded, with smoky dark-fruit flavors that are initially hard to capture and tannins that verge on puckering. But time rewards—this wine hits its stride after being allowed to open and swirled around a few times. Enjoy it with a rich risotto or rack of ribs.
Black and viscous, this gorgeous Petite Sirah is intriguing in every way. Opening with aromas of just-muddled mint and freshly baked bread, this wine tastes as if wildflowers and brambly blackberry stems were placed carefully in a leather satchel. No doubt this Petite will get even more interesting with age.
Black and white pepper mix with black cherry, roasted fig, plum and grape aromas on this wine by master sommelier Paolo Barbieri, who built some of Las Vegas' top wine lists. The palate is juicy with blackberries but also shows a gravelly minerality and harder black spice.
Black and white pepper pop from the glass in this cool-climate, cool-vintage wine that retains just enough power around lacy acidity. A bouquet of violets rises on the nose before the palate offers spicy, lean bursts of meat, leather and black licorice. Made in small amounts, this wine is well worth seeking.
Black and white pepper splash all over the aromas of the otherwise cherry meringue-driven nose of this blend of 39% Grenache, 33% Syrah, 26% Mourvèdre and 2% Viognier. It's light and airy on the palate, blending fresh strawberry fruit with a cornucopia of peppercorns. It provides a great example of how a fun, lively wine can be savorily serious as well.
Black and white pepper, boysenberries and roasting pork notes show on the fresh and vibrant nose of this blend of the five red Bordeaux varietals. Light and lively on the palate, it offers lots of boysenberry energy, with more pepper, thyme, cardamom and tea elements. It's a refreshing change of pace from a cool vintage.
Black as a cave and thick as jam, this wine offers a decadence of black licorice and chocolate truffle, aged entirely in new French oak for 30 months. Fruit plays a supporting part to the richness, making for a wine that's a dessert in itself.
Black as a moonless night, dense in structure, tannic, bone dry and super-peppery, this Syrah isn't offering much relief right now. In all likelihood it will emerge from its cocoon in a few years to offer a wealth of ripe blackberry, currant and carob fruit.
Black as coal, with a heavy, smoky, meaty nose, this is one of a growing number of excellent biodynamic Syrahs from Oregon. It marries tangy acids to chewy red and blue fruits, with streaks of coffee liqueur and caramel latté. Half was whole-cluster fermented, and it all spent time in 50% new French oak.
Black as ink, this is a rich and beautifully smooth, concentrated wine. It has weight and depth of flavor, with cinnamon and finely integrated opulent fruit and tannins. This is a wine for aging over several years.
Black as night and leathery, this is a generously savory, 100% Syrah that's well put together in structured tannins and chewy texture. Let it breathe and the range of smoked meats it'll go with are endless, matching the similar taste of grilled, gamey meat in the wine.
Black as night in color then lush, ripe and silky smooth on the nose, this heady Malbec offers aromas of marzipan, balsam, licorice and cassis. The palate is intense and tannic, with lusty flavors of blackberry, prune and chocolate. Finishing flavors of mocha, cocoa and toast are lush and long. Drink through 2018.
Black as night in color, this has heavy aromas of bacon, rubber and char that settle squarely on notes of vanilla and creamy oak. The feel is fresh but shear and tight, with flavors of herbal berry and spice, plus a scratchiness on the chewy finish.
Black as night in the glass and noticeably viscous, this shows brooding aromas of heavy char, black tobacco, cassis, bloody meat and balsamic vinegar. The palate isn't so heavy, though. Good acidity and tannins glide across the tongue while offering flavors of pencil lead, black cherry extract and black pepper.
Black as night in the glass, the dark-leaning, attention-grabbing aromas range from black cherry to cassis, with some slate. The wine lacquers the palate with brooding purple fruit, boasting flavors of blackberry syrup, white pepper and violet.
Black as night in the glass, this heavy duty, Cabernet-led Bordeaux blend from one of the most visually stunning properties on the Central Coast is loaded with rich, luscious fruit and tannins that are built to last. There are stewed plums on the nose with warm slices of blueberry pie on the palate. Wait until at least 2019 for full enjoyment.
Black as night in the glass, this wine shows black cherries, lava rocks and espresso beans on the dense nose. It's thick and chewy once sipped, with zesty acidity that sizzles across the palate, showing blackberry and coffee flavors. It's all power, with very little finesse. Sales of the wine benefit multiple sclerosis research.
Black as night in the glass, this wine—which come from the Mann Vineyard—is evened out with 13% Merlot and spent 30 months in American oak. Brown spice, black cherries and oregano power the palate along with notes of dried cherries and tobacco. It's drinking quite nicely right now.
Black as night, it offers classic characteristics. Oodles of black pepper on the nose and palate are seasoned over soft, lush tannins and hearty layers of licorice, dark chocolate and coffee. It's ready to enjoy now but will also grow gracefully over many years.
Black as night, with chunky, sweet, candied aromas as well as notes of bacon, shoe polish and cough medicine. This is a classic modern-styled wine with intense roasted berry, herb and exotic spice flavors. Licorine, prune, coffee and oak emerge on the broad finish. Very ripe yet it does a good job of straddling the line between big and overripe.
Black as they come, with saturated, jammy aromas of sweet berry fruit, blackberry syrup and toasty oak. The palate is lush and chewy, with black fruit, spice and herbal flavors. Toasty and black on the finish. A big wine with plentiful oak as well as purity.
Black ash, cedar and crushed raspberries are the aromas here, while an underlying note of wet earth keeps things grounded. The palate has a sweet cherry cordial character while the short finish offers up a hit of mixed berry soup. Drink up.
Black berries, spice and black plums are the dominant flavors of this blend of Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and Cabernet Sauvignon. Austerity and minerality layer within the dry firm fruits. The wood shows well, a foil for the freshness, acidity and dry tannins. Screwcap.
Black berry and plum aromas keep greener notes from dominating the bouquet, along with accents of stale burnt coffee that lingers in the back. The medium-weight mouth is juicy and driven by more dark fruit flavors with a hints of olive. Soft, round and easy to drink.
Black berry, plum, red currant and cedar aromas take center stage in this fantastic vintage of one of Italy's most iconic wines. The structured, poised palate delivers a great depth of flavors that include succulent black cherry, cracked black pepper and mocha that are energized by a flinty mineral note. Smooth and balanced with polished tannins and fresh acidity, this is already delicious but hold for complexity. Drink 2015–2030.
Black berry, raspberry and cassis abound on the bouquet of this wine, lifted by superattractive aromas of fudgy brownie. The fruit transitions completely to the full palate, with a touch of peppery spice staying through the close. Drink now.
Black Box hops onto the popular sweet red wine train with this blend. It is, as advertised, sweet, but not too much, giving a sugary edge to the blackberries and cherries.
Black cherries and chocolate combine on the palate, but there's also a certain weediness to the aromas. This blend of approximately 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon finishes strong, with tart fruit and a dose of chocolate.
Black cherries, cola, fennel and dill come together for a thick aromatic profile on this blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignane. Pencil lead, blackberry preserves and black pepper show on the palate, which is rich but not particularly fruity, thanks to beef char and woody flavors.
Black cherries, hot licorice, ollallieberry meringue and smoked meats form a powerful and decadent nose on this rich wine. The palate is also vividly flavorful and dynamically changing, which is a welcome effect of high-alcohol wines, showing boysenberry, black pepper and sagebrush before diving even deeper into pipe tobacco and elderberry jam.
Black cherries, leather, dried rose petals, rustic cinnamon, bloody meat, graphite, cherry cola and vanilla bean show on the wondrously layered nose of this Steve Clifton bottling. It's still a tad young on the palate, which is grippy with sticky tannins, but shows cola, brown spice, cinnamon, cardamom cream, tart plum fruit and a lasting dried mint element. Drink 2018 through 2028.
Black cherries, sagebrush, dried rose petals, black loam and a tiny bit of tar frame the nose on this blend of 43% Grenache, 27% Syrah, 25% Mourvèdre and 5% Durif (a k a Petite Sirah). The palate offers flavors of dried blueberries and Bing cherries, with a touch of asphalt and black pepper.
Black cherries, turned loam and black slate swirl into a standard nose for this winery's workhorse bottling. It's quite tasty on the palate, with blackberries and boysenberries finding complexity amid licorice, slate and black dirt.
Black cherry and berry flavors fill the balanced mouth of this riserva. There's a lot of life in this wine and it will age slowly over the years. The freshness is bright and cleansing, and the tannins tends toward a fine and dusty quality.
Black cherry and berry jam aromas bring a touch of raisin as well. The palate is mostly fresh and zesty, with medium weight and intensity along with crisp red plum and raspberry flavors. Tight, mildly acidic and a bit toasty on the finish.
Black cherry and berry preserve aromas and flavors are almost secondary to the strong sweet smoke elements of this wine: cured meat, dried sausage and cigar tobacco. Full but balanced with medium acidity and soft, approachable tannins. The finish offers a sweet smoked-vanilla flavor.
Black cherry and black currant open the nose on this bottling, but there are more savory components of soy and black pepper lurking in the background. The palate is lively with black raspberry before the chalky, still quite stiff tannins arise, carrying flashes of cigar box, pencil shavings and bittersweet chocolate.
Black cherry and black raspberry notes meet crushed mint, wet slate, Mediterranean spice, blistered tomato and Kalamata olive on the nose of this estate bottling. Lively herbs including marjoram and thyme mark the palate, then the wine warms toward tarter cherry, cranberry and turned earth on the midpalate. It finishes with aromatically lifting menthol notes.
Black cherry and blackberry aromas are ripe, with a touch of prune weighing in. In the mouth, punchy acidity sticks out. Wiry raspberry and plum flavors are surprisingly tart and underdeveloped, while lactic oak notes and choppy acidity make for a jumbled finish.
Black cherry and blackberry take over on this Montepulciano-based wine from Central Italy. The juicy fruit carries over to the palate, along with prune and cinnamon-spice notes that add depth. Already friendly, hold for a couple of years to fully develop.
Black cherry and blueberry fruit flavors are accompanied by a definite note of mushroom, much as in many lesser Bordeaux. There's a little lift from moderate volatile acidity, and a mix of coffee, blueberry and smoke through the finish.
Black cherry and blueberry fruit show on the dense, dark nose of this bottling, alongside clove, allspice, nutmeg, purple flower, crushed rosebuds and dust. Black and red plums show on the sip, as does chipped asphalt, charcoal and coffee. It's a standout in terms of darkness for a Pinot Noir.
Black cherry and blueberry mix on nose and palate of this fruit-forward red. They are joined by a lively, invigorating pepperiness and balanced by freshness. This makes for joyful, uncomplicated but still sophisticated drinking. The cherry fruit lingers beautifully.
Black cherry and cassis aromas are bold but basic. This feels fiercely tannic and astringent. Meaty flavors of cherry and black plum end with dried berry notes, prune and rock-hard tannic bite. Give this more time if possible, but like many 2013s it might never soften and improve.
Black cherry and cassis aromas are sweet and ripe. The palate is lively and shows zippy acids along with roasted berry flavors that are juicy due to the fresh acidity. Darkens up on the finish, showing coffee, chocolate and good length. Uncomplicated, fruity Syrah.
Black cherry and cassis aromas include notes of tree bark, rooty spices and animal hide. This feels juicy and alert, while toasty black-fruit flavors are mild. Blackened, peppery notes are unchecked on the energetic finish.
Black cherry and cassis aromas mix with some heat, rubber and harshness on the bouquet. With time it settles into better form, showing rich, bold berry and plum flavors, spice and some heat and scour. Roasted and dark on the finish, and rugged overall.
Black cherry and cinnamon on the nose lead into spicy red berry and coca flavors. This is a clean, easy-drinking red that will pair well with lighter dishes like poultry and ham.
Black cherry and cola flavors are entwined, with a hint of earth. Assertive and flavorful, though still wrapped up tightly, this shows a darker side of coffee and licorice, all nicely balanced with the fruit.
Black cherry and currant flavors are spiced up by light floral, rosemary and black-olive aromas in this full-bodied, smooth-textured wine. It's a great value, with good concentration and a lingering finish.
Black cherry and dark raspberry fruit blend with background citrus accents, leading into a vibrant but short finish. Drink now; may also be served slightly chilled.
Black cherry and leather aromas aren't complex but they're sturdy and true to the variety. So is the palate, which hits with chewy, semi-rich flavors of baked plum, cola and cocoa. Figgy but flat and short on the finish. Good value wine.
Black cherry and medicinal aromas dominate an earthy, dense nose. A ton of energy is unloaded on a grabby, aggressive palate that's packed with cherry, plum and cough drop flavors. This is ripe, forward and fresh, with brown-sugar sweetness to the finish. Drink through 2024.
Black cherry and plum aromas are solid. This is chunky and heavyset, but comfortable across the palate. Generic plum and berry flavors are pure, while this finishes plump, chunky and with a hint of chocolate.
Black cherry and plum fruit flavors are enveloped in chalky mocha notes in the mouth. Cedar, red berry and a tomato-like note show on the nose. A little soft in the mouth, the wine closes with soft tannins and a bit of an herbal-lemony tang.
Black cherry and pomegranate shine through the smoke, licorice and cedar aromas. The medium-bodied palate is lightly smoky, with more notes of cedar and vanilla. Dark fruits persist, supported by soft, dusty tannins and a pleasant lift of acidity on the finish.
Black cherry and raspberry scents immediately hit you upon nosing, followed shortly after by an herbal edge with a chocolaty accent, like a thin mint cookie. This wine has structured tannins and medium weight, with a sweet-spice tinge to the close. Drink now.
Black cherry and smoke beef show on the nose of this study of Pauillac, as do tobacco ash, leather and crushed black gravel. Dill, oregano and thyme give nuance to the dark red and black fruit of the palate, from black plum to dense mulberry. This needs a bit more time to reach full potential, but should cellar well. Drink 2018–2028.
Black cherry and vanilla notes are appealing despite some hints of scorched wood on the palate. The texture is pleasantly soft and silky, lending to an easy-drinking Pinot. Drink now–2018.
Black cherry and violet aromas control what amounts to a compact, straightforward bouquet. It feels flush and ripe, with friendly tannins and a range of dark fruit flavors that lead to a warm finish with molasses-like richness. Very nice Cabernet to drink now through 2014.
Black cherry and wild berry aromas are appealing and lusty. In the mouth, this blend of Sryah, Graciano, Tempranillo and Petit Verdot is solid but a bit thin in the middle. Flavors of raw oak, coffee and cherry finish with a wave of creamy oak. Despite its modest structure, this is a very good and interesting blend to drink now.
Black cherry aromas are dwarfed by notes of wilted flowers and turned earth. Red and black fruit flavors are shy on the palate, with grippy tannins following through to the finish.
Black cherry aromas are followed by rich black fruit, plum and damson flavors in this wine. There is plenty of juicy acidity here as well, with tannins to support the richness. Drink from 2020.
Black cherry aromas are grapy and simple, with spice and forced oak notes chiming in. This feels rugged with firm tannins. Short, spicy black cherry flavors finish with a lasting burn.
Black cherry flavor stars in this full-bodied, brawny and expressive red that's thick with jammy fruit and interwoven tannins and oak.
Black cherry fruit anchors this pleasing bottle, nuanced with cola and a streak of chocolate. The tannins are smooth and supple, and the earthiness common in this AVA is carefully managed.
Black cherry fruit gets serious with elements of slate, eucalyptus, tar and wild mint on this wine from the Corralitos area at the southern coastal edge of the appellation. It's soft at first on the palate, then reveals a wash of acidity, with sour cherry fruit and black tea tannins.
Black cherry fruit is accented with flavors of coffee grounds and dark chocolate. The fruit is clean and brambly, and the wine overdelivers for the price.
Black cherry fruit is encased in dark barrel flavors of smoke, charcoal and espresso. Tart acids tighten up the finish. It's got plenty of power, but the fruit seems over-matched by the oak, at least at this young stage.
Black cherry fruit is followed by notes of espresso, leather, crushed granite, cola and licorice. The wine shows bright acidity in the mouth but it also has enough fruity pulp and density to soften that sharpness. Pair this wine with spicy baby-back ribs.
Black cherry fruit with a bit of black olive and a hint of smoke lead quickly into an oaky finish with plenty of roasted coffee and tobacco flavors. A lot of barrel, but the fruit is simple, not distinctively varietal.
Black cherry fruits sink even deeper into blackberry jam on this nose, which is leveled by vanilla and black licorice. It's chunky and sticky once sipped, with blueberry juice and chocolate-chip elements that are cut with anise-like herbs. Espresso shows on the finish, which is slightly sour and bitter.
Black cherry juice vies with a dense structure in this powerful wine. It has layers of tannins and sweetness. This is a firm, solid wine packed inside velvet. Age for 10 years and more.
Black cherry juice, anise, thyme and pepper show on the nose of this bottling from the Riboli family. The palate is easygoing and lighter in body, with dried blueberry, more pepper and a touch of soy.
Black cherry juice, slate and sandalwood consume the nose with rich and ripe aromas on this powerful bottling from a vineyard south of Santa Maria. This shows lots of elegance and complexity on the palate, with turned earth, wild berries and an intriguing sense of pine needles and juniper. Expect great things from this relatively new producer.
Black cherry notes persist throughout this bluish-pink dry rosé. Ripe white peach, watermelon and plum flavors are punchy and fresh, marked by a razor-edged line of acidity.
Black cherry pie, milk chocolate and lilacs combine for a very accessible and rather lavish nose on this blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. It's easy to like on the sip, with candied purple fruit and licorice spice flavors, proving very fruity, lush and quaffable.
Black cherry richness meets a slight tang of bell pepper on the nose of this bottling. The palate echos that herbal quality with its oregano and marjoram flavors, finishing on spicy black pepper and kirsch.
Black cherry steeped in spirits, truffle, pressed blue flower and cake spice aromas all come together on this along with a whiff of eucalyptus. The palate shows structure and some aging potential, offering dried black cherry, tobacco, clove and cinnamon alongside assertive tannins that leave a firm finish.
Black cherry to the eye, this wine has a bouquet of raspberry and Mediterranean herbs with a strong note of lavender. It is well-crafted, with flavors of cherry, blackberry, smoked meat, thyme and black pepper. Silky tannins line the palate, and the finish offers a burst of cranberry and pomegranate.
Black cherry to the eye, this wine holds back on the nose, offering restrained aromas of black currant and roasted yellow pepper. Flavors include raspberry, blueberry, violet, lavender, thyme and roasted meat. It has lightly grippy tannins and there is a distinct note of Dr. Pepper on the finish.
Black cherry, a savory overtone of dried thyme and a hint of dark chocolate are met with lively, pervading acidity, which keeps this on the trim and lighter side but also makes it ideal as a versatile, approachable and complementary food wine.
Black cherry, black cardamom, vanilla bean and iron show on the nose of this bottling from a new husband-and-wife producer in the region. Fuller flavors of black cherry and clove foam pop on the palate, where grippy tannins and mouthwatering acidity bolster thyme and orange rind tartness.
Black cherry, black currant and spice notes are nicely integrated. This has a narrowly defined palate that sings of ripe fruit. Dark, toasty, slightly bitter blackberry is the core flavor on this oaky, peppery, voluminous Carmenère.
Black cherry, black plum and black currant are integrated well into the fresh dill and smoke scents on the nose of this wine from one of the region's newest properties. It discloses a rich dark-chocolate sauce character on the palate as well as black-currant-jelly flavors, but most impressive is the lush, sexy and soft mouthfeel.
Black cherry, blackberry and marzipan aromas are full, lusty and inviting. This has a chewy, full-bodied and layered mouthfeel to go with the dark-fruit flavors that are aided by spice notes. A peppery chocolaty finish is solid, ripe and friendly. Drink through 2020.
Black cherry, blackberry, olive and gritty oak aromas feed into a scratchy palate with forceful acidity. Oaky, blackened flavors of medicinal berry fruits finish with notes of mint and carob. Overall, this is solid but typically herbal and saucy.
Black cherry, blueberry and blackberry combine for a rewardingly rich, ripe nose, layered with flecks of graphite and chai-like spice. The palate is driven at first by black soil elements, evolving into cooked cherries, tar and bitter root vegetables, yet possessing a strawberry lightness as well. This is extremely complex and as fresh as any more recent vintages.
Black cherry, blueberry jam, volcanic rocks, river stones and a mace spice show on the nose of this wine. The palate is thick with black fruit and dark chocolate, the tannins showing lots of structure and flavors of purple flowers giving depth. It needs more time in the bottle to reach full potential.
Black cherry, blueberry, pepper spice and a touch of toasted pine shows on the nose of this bottling. There is juniper spice and baked cherry on the palate, which is relatively simply yet flavorful.
Black cherry, cassis and cola aromas are on the money and exact, with nothing overt sticking out. This bottling is strongly built, probably the most tannic of Atauta's 2010 single-vineyard wines, but it's not coarse. Savory flavors of smoked meat, tea and baked berry fruits end with rooty, roasted notes. Drink through 2024.
Black cherry, chipped slate and an earthy nutmeg character show on the nose of this stylishly labeled bottling. Medium in weight, it offers energetic and tart cranberry-cherry flavors as well as a menthol element on the palate, which is tangy throughout and wipes up clean.
Black cherry, chipped slate and cola notes lavish the nose on this top-end bottling of best barrels from the single-vineyard specialist. The palate offers much more depth, with ripe alpine strawberry, black plum skins and blackberry fruit, all seasoned by crushed nutmeg and shaved juniper.
Black cherry, chocolate and menthol accents color the nose of this ripe and plump Barbera d'Alba. The wine is firm and generous in the mouth with a chewy, slightly sweet finish. It sees one year of oak for extra spice on the close.
Black cherry, cigarbox and balsamic on the nose is followed by red currant, leather and cherry on the palate. A touch of lean minerality and lots of acidity give the wine a plucky kick. If you like leaner-style reds with an exotic flair, this wine is for you.
Black cherry, cigarbox, pepper and mocha give this vclvety red class. Sultry, integrated and unfolding, the wine offers additional warming spice, cinnamon and chocolate on the palate. Mellow black fruits and a delicious cinnamon finish seal the deal.
Black cherry, clove and smoked meat aromas are rolled up into one wondrously savory scent in this 50-50 blend of Mourvèdre and Syrah. Flavors of beef roasted in blackberry and Sherry sauce sprinkled with oregano and marjoram entertain the complex palate.
Black cherry, clove, allspice and fresh hibiscus make for an enticing nose on this wine by the longtime Russian River Valley producer. Rose petals, cranberry juice, dried oregano and more hibiscus together for a bountiful palate.
Black cherry, cola, dried sagebrush and caked lilac and lavender flowers show on this blend of 41% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 14% Mourvèdre, 4% Counoise and 4% Cinsaut. The palate focuses on purple flavors of lavender, lilac, black plum and black pepper, with a strong acidity that lingers long on the tongue.
Black cherry, cooked fig and prune fruit flavors are set in thick tannins. There's a bitter character similar to dark roasted espresso.
Black cherry, crushed concrete and spicy peppercorn show on the nose of this Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah dessert blend. There are luscious ripe flavors on the palate, including crème de cassis, black plum and prune, with a gravel-like minerality lending elegance. The high alcohol is well integrated.
Black cherry, crushed lava rocks, anise, turned loam and a hint of vanilla show on the nose of this bottling. It's rather light and easy on the sip, with a lighter body presenting flavors of candied red fruit and sagebrush spice.
Black cherry, crushed rocks and light tarragon aromas hit the nose on this bottling that is perfect for everyday sipping. Tingling acidity unveils black cherry roll-up flavors and a touch of mocha foam.
Black cherry, currant and plum swirl in the bouquet, with hints of baking spice and bittersweet chocolate in the background. It's promising, but the palate comes across a bit flat, with soft tannins and a fleeting finish.
Black cherry, currants and plums on the nose lead into a delicious balance of olive, plums and herbs on the palate. Dried currants, crushes stone and leather are also in the mix, with a chalky finish keeping the wine on track. Keep this one in the cellar or drink now with lamb or olive tapenade.
Black cherry, dark-fleshed plums and black pepper hints are mellowed by the rich overtones of new oak, while a seam of acidity keeps everything trim and fresh. This medium-bodied wine is approachable with a tangy black olive edge and medium length.
Black cherry, dark chocolate, coffee and mint touches show on the nose of this approachable bottling. The palate is solidly structured, pairing soy and licorice flavors with tangy black-plum and elderberry fruit.
Black cherry, dark plum and charred rubber give this a masculine opening. Generous and layered across the palate, this tastes of blackberry, chocolaty oak and spice. A lasting, tannic finish is loaded with oak and baking-spice flavors. Drink this ripe, delicious bruiser through 2021.
Black cherry, dark pomegranate and sagebrush show on the nose of this decently priced bottling for midweek sipping. Ripe cranberry dominates the palate along with allspice, nutmeg and oak components, set against an intriguing texture.
Black cherry, kola nut, licorice, clove and mulling spices show on the nose of this bottling from the high-elevation vineyard. The flavors are pure and easy, with tart cherry, thyme and peppery spice, all wrapped in an earthy overcoat.
Black cherry, leather, tar and nose-tickling clove aromas mix with a tad of green pepper on the nose of this signature bottling. The wine is very elegant in structure and memorable in flavors of peppercorn and cherry pie, all while retaining an acidic tartness.
Black cherry, licorice, loamy soil and a touch of roasted beef show on the nose of this bottling from a beautiful estate in the eastern Santa Ynez Valley. Black cherry, dried dill and fennel, coffee bean and slightly bitter dark chocolate come across on the palate that is still quite young with sticky tannins, though very easy to sip already.
Black cherry, mint and white pepper aromas jump out of the glass along with a whiff of balsamic herbs. The intense palate boasts mouthwatering red cherry and strawberry flavors restrained by black pepper, cinnamon, clove, orange zest and a hint of eucalyptus. It's already gorgeous but it will develop even more complexity. Drink 2020–2030.
Black cherry, mocha and pepper lead on this easy-drinking red from Chaddsford. On the palate, soft cherry fruit, cedar spice and chocolate give the wine a luscious edge. Pair with Mexican mole, spiced ribs or pasta.
Black cherry, orange oil, fruitcake and vanilla wafer notes lead onto the medium-full palate, which takes on a slight edge of desiccated black fruit. This blend of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Tannat and Chambourcin has sturdy tannins and a finish of medium length.
Black cherry, pepper and smoked meat on the nose are followed by flavors of smoked cherry, vanilla and pepper on the palate. Focused, with a spin of minerality on the finish, this is a versatile food wine.
Black cherry, plum and currant aromas are young, bouncy and fresh as a whole. That pretty much describes the palate on this Garnacha-led blend: It's lively, rubbery, tannic and fresh. Blackberry, plum and black currant flavors finish tannic and grabby. Drink through 2017.
Black cherry, plum and mint aromas lead the nose and carry over to the juicy palate. It's round, smooth and accessible thanks to soft tannins and fresh acidity. Enjoy soon.
Black cherry, raspberry, leather and spice aromas are fairly typical of Mendoza Malbec. A fruity, no-nuance palate delivers short but fresh cherry and cassis flavors in front of a jammy finish with rubbery tannins and mild bitterness.
Black cherry, red currant and coffee aromas take center stage and carry over to the palate, along with notes of espresso and black pepper. Dense with firm tannins, it will pair well with hearty Tuscan soups.
Black cherry, red raspberry, dried violets and graphite scent this Thracian Valley Syrah. It is full bodied, tasting of blueberry preserves, black cherry and espresso beans. The tannins are soft and round and lead to an elegant finish.
Black cherry, roasted meats, turned loam and a little bit of gingerbread make for a very inviting nose to this bottling. Clay and wet earth flavors kick off the palate, followed by touches of forest floor and dried red cherry.
Black cherry, smoked beef jerky, burned caramel and a touch of maduro cigar show on the nose of this study of a popular Syrah clone. The palate is equally savory, with smoked meats, blackberry fruit, crushed black pepper, soy and a tarry edge, bolstered by sparkling acidity.
Black cherry, tart plum skin and hints of vanilla, caramel and dill show on the nose of this bottling from southeastern Paso Robles. The palate is a tad thin, with black plum, oregano and nettle flavors.
Black cherry, underbrush and tilled soil aromas lead the nose of this blend of 70% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The polished yet firmly tannic palate delivers dark plum, cake spice and white pepper flavors. Enjoy through 2019.
Black cherry, vanilla and cedar on the nose of this confident blend are followed by refreshing, spicy flavors of plum, blackberry, cinnamon and cedar. This wine has a kick to it but the fruit's deep softness balances it out. A go-to red with true class.
Black cherry, vanilla and plum aromas and flavors on this affordable Agiorgitiko are plucky and fresh, but the tannins are overall quite supple. The wine is not terribly complex but a good cohort to burgers and grilled meats.
Black cherry, violet and pepper on the nose lead into a spirited red blend of spicy pepper, leather and red fruit. Ageable and elegant, this wine balances indigenous character with accessible style.
Black color shows a depth of extraction in this earthy, burly wine. It reveals layers of leather, cedar and tobacco most, with a billowy tannin structure providing a foundation for additional elements of meaty black fruit and graphite.
Black currant acidity cuts sharply through this wine, giving structure and a very fresh character. Made for Broadbent by Niepoort, it is firm, very dry, dark and dense. This is a wine that will certainly need all the aging it can get.
Black currant and cherry flavors, accented with a touch of smoky oak, mark this dry, smooth wine. It has the textural hallmarks of the best of Napa Valley Cabernet, but lacks the richness. Drink now.
Black currant and dark cherry sensations are accented with notes of espresso and roasted coffee bean. The subdued palate is already evolved and has an abrupt finish.
Black currant and plum aromas come with a defined streak of minty green. The palate, meanwhile, feels boxed in by tannic grip. Flavors of prune, mint and herbal berry lead to an edgy finish with the flavors of carob and herbs.
Black currant and stalky tannins, along with acidity, mark this attractive Bordeaux. It is dry, with some mineral austerity, lightly woody. The fruit is now mature.
Black currant aromas lead on to a soft, off-dry wine with red-berry flavors and a stalky texture. With the softness, it is an immediate wine, easy to drink.
Black currant flavors dominates this wine. The palate is dense with flavor, with firm tannins allied with tense acidity and spicy licorice flavors. It's a ripe wine that shows potential for aging. Drink from 2014. Screwcap.
Black currant fruit lends the nose a fruity aroma. The flavors are reflected in the soft, dry tannins, stalky fruit, black fruit acidity and smoky finish.
Black currant fruits dominate this ripe, stalky wine that has young tannins and a smoky cedar character that comes from light wood aging. It's dry, firm and ready to drink.
Black currant leaf and juicy plum guts abound on the nose of this Bordeaux-style blend, and those aromas transition into the dominating flavors of the palate alongside suggestions of pepper and sweet smoked meat. Balanced, with fine tannins and a clean but lingering finish.
Black currant stars in this mountain wine, juicy and brushy in big, pillowy tannin. Still tightly wound, it shows complexity and plenty of natural structure, begging for more time in the bottle to allow for the gunpowder, smoky oak and dark, lush black fruit to marry further. It should show best 2020 through 2023.
Black currant, bell pepper and leather aromas lead the way on this blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. The dense palate delivers ripe black cherry, grilled pepper, mocha and cracked black pepper alongside bracing tannins.
Black currant, cedar, prune, spice and just a whiff of barnyard lead the nose on this young Amarone. The dense palate delivers baked plum, stewed prune, nutmeg and clove alongside tightly-knit, bracing tannins. It finishes on an astringent note.
Black currant, graphite and meat juice aromas lead the nose on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. On the forward palate, notes of bitter dark chocolate and sweet spice accent blackberry jam and dried cherries. Tightly woven tannins provide the framework. Drink soon to capture what remains of the fruit richness.
Black currant, lavender, black pepper, soy and graphite show on the nose of this bottling by Zac Wasserman, an assistant to Joey Tensley. There is a flash of lavender at the tip of the sip, and then the darkness descends, with charred meats and blackened berries cut by a strong acidity. It still needs time to develop, but these wines disappear fast, so stock up.
Black currants and green bell pepper aromas lead the nose on this easygoing Cabernet Sauvignon from Tuscany. The soft, straightforward palate offers plum and black cherry with a hint of licorice alongside round tannins. Not an ager so enjoy soon for the best of the juicy fruit flavors.
Black currants and spice give this wine its main aromatic character. On the palate, it's light with a dry core that is still dominant. The wine is more about structure and will probably stay that way.
Black currants and spice provide the backbone to this classic Bordeaux red. There are dry tannins, some attractive smoky flavors, topped with acidity and a final, lightly wooded close.
Black currants, blackberries, grilled herb, cedar and clove aromas lead the nose on this delicious, creamy wine. The smooth, savory palate doles out ripe black cherry, fleshy plum, white pepper, mint and anise. Firm, polished tannins support the juicy fruit flavors.
Black currants, cranberry, pomegranate and stewed plum fruits meet with pencil shavings and sagebrush on the nose. Flavors are relatively light and straightforward, with dark red raspberry ripeness and tart plum skin tannins.
Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie and Winemaker Joey Tensley converge on a blend of Syrah, Merlot, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon that's worth sitting on until at least 2019. Woody, cigar box aromas pick up notes of camphor and flashes of red fruit, and the flavors fall in line around the cedar, with blueberry, black cherry and milk chocolate.
Black fruit and cherry leads on this balanced red. Flavors of black pepper, black currant and plum on the palate are round but not overbearing. A good daily red to pair with pastas, stews and meat dishes.
Black fruit and graphite aromas come with an earthy heaviness. This is intense, with driving tannins pushing the flavors of black plum and stewed meat. The finish is big and fruity, with a rubbery feel.
Black fruit and soft tannins yield a wine that is rounded with some attractive texture. Its ripe black currant fruitiness is lifted by its crisp acidity. Drink now.
Black fruit and taut structure are joined with black currant acidity and a core of the driest tannins. The wine has the cool 2007 feel to it, and is certainly ready to drink now.
Black fruit and tobacco notes open the nose of this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Easy yet structured on the palate, this has loads of berry-like freshness and clean acidity. Pair it with lamb.
Black fruit aromas blend with rubber to give the impression of hot tar, while the palate is higher in acid than expected, leaving a flavor profile of zesty raspberry and black cherry. Heat and black licorice stir up the finish. Decent but limited.
Black fruit aromas come with a dusty note and a hint of milk chocolate. This feels straightforward, with flavors of raspberry, mild herb and sugar beet. The finish is short and easy, with an approachable mouthfeel.
Black fruit aromas come with spice and earth notes. This is saturated to the point of feeling heavy. Herbal raspberry and plum flavors end with grating, scratchy, unresolved tannic grab.
Black fruit aromas feature a touch of licorice. Feels lively and alert, with edgy acids and juicy, forward flavors of plum and wild berry. Toasty, integrated and spicy on the finish, with pinches of green and black pepper.
Black fruit aromas show over toasted vanilla and green peppercorn notes. The palate boasts tart berries contrasted by grainy tannins that linger on the slightly bitter finish.
Black fruit up front has an earthy, composty quality; the palate's mixed berries take a back seat to wood. Persistent herb and white-pepper flavors on the finish persist longer than I wanted them to. A rustic, rough-around-the-edges wine that begs for stew or black beans.
Black fruit with a touch of prune and meat on the nose. Oak-lashed plums and currants in the mouth taste a bit burnt from the wood treatment. A woody express train, with lots of coffee. Fans of dark, structured, oaky wines will get a kick out of this one.
Black fruit, bacon and sawdust aromas introduce this fuller-styled, fairly heady Merlot. With ripeness written all over it, there's still plenty of liveliness and punch to the black cherry and blackberry flavors. Finishing notes of pepper and chocolate give it added character.
Black fruit, chocolate, licorice and menthol aromas take center stage in this brawny, forward Brunello. The palate starts off with fleshy black cherry accented with notes of cinnamon-spice layered with bitter dark chocolate, but it finishes on a note of drying tannins. You'll also notice the hefty alcohol on the close.
Black fruit, clove, char and mocha are the primary aromas on this heavily oaked, saturated Monastrell. The palate shows bullish tannins, bold acids and weight, while dark-leaning flavors of blackberry, stewed plum and mint come with enough acidity to cut through the wine's fat and oak.
Black fruit, cola and brambly notes of wet earth and forest fruit open the bouquet and segue to warmer tones of tobacco and smoked ham. Pair this wine with hearty lentil soup and bacon bits.
Black fruit, pepper and spice lead this likeable sip from Kentucky. Red berry, cranberry and plum fruit mixed with pepper and vanilla gives it dimension, and the finish is both tart and spicy. A nice everyday red perfect for winter cuisine.
Black fruit, raisin and minerally aromas combine to create a formidable bouquet. The palate is juicy and fresh, with substance and structure in support of blackberry, spice cake and licorice flavors. The finish is long, with slightly rubbery flavors.
Black fruits and dry tannins are coming together well in this second wine of Château Saint-Didier Parnac. They make for a ripe wine with a light touch of berry fruits and attractive acidity. It will be ready to drink by 2017.
Black fruits and rich tannins bring out the fruitiness. A strongly mineral character gives structure, while still allowing room for the red cherry and raspberry fruit flavors. It will age, so drink from 2016.
Black fruits are fully ripe, then encased in massive barrel flavors. The overwhelming influence of oak brings a barrage of tobacco, smoke and charred wood. The tannins have a bitter edge.
Black fruits are wreathed in subtle notes of earth, smoke and graphite. This is a palate-pleasing wine, but seems a little too safe, lacking the complexity and northern Rhône accents that Washington Syrahs often show.
Black fruits dominate this dense wine with a rich texture and a structure packed with ripe tannins. It is an impressive bottling from this single-owner Grand Cru. Dark and firm it will need aging. Drink from 2022.
Black fruits dominate this rich wine. While it has tannins, they are soft and dusty, already well integrated into the fruitiness and generous texture. It's full in the mouth, delicious and ripe. Drink from 2015.
Black fruits dominate this second wine of Kirwan, an 1855 Third Growth Grand Cru Classé. The oak aging is subtle and gives a smooth character rather than strong toasty flavors. The richness and structure do promise some aging although this wine will develop quickly. Drink from 2020.
Black fruits, earth notes and a hint of toast create a subtle, inviting nose. In the mouth, this is chunky but balanced, with mild tannins. Cassis and plum are the lead flavors, and the finish is mellow and fleshy in feel, with a certain lazy ease to it.
Black fruits, fine herbs and horsehide carry the aromas of this offering. In the mouth, this is firm and well built, with integrated tannins. Savory flavors of soy sauce and roast plum share space with bolder, riper cherry notes, while a warm, earthy finish tastes of roasted plum and berry. Drink through 2021.
Black fruits—raspberry, cherry and plum—mingle with clean earth, cinnamon and chocolate. The wine has grip and power, though currently some excess acidity pokes through the finish.
Black gravel and cracked pepper spice enliven a nose reminiscent of a dried boysenberry Fruit Roll-Up on this wine by 25-year-old winemaker-to-watch Bret Urness. It's bursting with mouthwatering acidity on the palate, almost in an overpowering way, showing purple fruit and black spice flavors.
Black in color and concentrated on the nose, this Tinta de Toro overflows with cassis and blackberry aromas. The palate is lively and lifted, with plenty of acidity and kick. Flavors of cassis and dark berries are charged up and toasty, while chocolate notes, firm tannins and a gritty edge define the finish. Drink through 2018.
Black in color and dense on the nose, this has well-oaked aromas of black fruit, lemon peel and cedar. It feels full and fresh, with good acidity and prickly tannins. It tastes juicy and clean, with berry, black plum, vanilla, tobacco and spice flavors that carry through onto the finish.
Black in color and inky on the nose, this ultra-concentrated, superripe Tempranillo is smoky and toasty, with accents of graphite along with blackberry. An extracted, dense palate is braced by solid tannins and healthy acids. Blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors conclude this rich, flashy wine. Drink 2016–2021.
Black in color and overtly charred, toasted and blackened on the nose, this modern-styled Montsant blend is loaded with black fruits, licorice and hickory aromas. In the mouth, this is lush, ripe and strong as an ox. Oaky flavors of vanilla and coconut settle on chocolate and blackberry, while the finish echoes with licorice and vanilla flavors and thick, chewy tannins. Drink through 2021.
Black in color and rich in aromas of grilled meat, Papa's is thick and concentrated, offering bold flavors of damson plum, leather and cola spice. Full bodied and ripe, its ability to showcase crisp acidity amid all this flavor and texture is remarkable.
Black in color, this dense wine has power, concentration and a hugely tannic structure. Still in its infancy, it is darkly dominated by its dry, firm texture, the black fruits still hiding behind the framework and the acidity. Give this complex wine until 2018 before drinking.
Black in color, this heavy concentrated wine is thick in black pepper and clove, with underlying streaks of cedar. Well structured, it unfurls depths of black cherry, currant and vanilla as it develops in the glass, finishing a full bodied as it started.
Black in color, this is an extracted, powerful wine, with sturdy tannins and a taste of black licorice. Full bodied and robust, it finishes steeped in black pepper and leather.
Black in color, this Petit Verdot smells of iodine, black currant, road tar and leather. The palate is saturated, with a burst of acidity creating zest and balance. Oaky, powerful blackberry flavors shorten up on a muscular, tannic finish. Drink through 2021.
Black in color, this smells of olive, eucalyptus and tarry berry, much like you'd get from a high-end Chilean red. An extracted massive palate is dense and layered, while this tastes of salty black plum and black currant. A toasty smooth finish with mild tannins is herbal and balsamic. Drink through 2021.
Black in color, this wine has reduced aromas of blueberry, cumin and bitter chocolate. Thick and generous in the mouth, but also rugged, with sweet blackberry and bacon flavors and a lot of toasty-oak influence.
Black in color, with sweet, full-force aromas of cola and black fruits. There's staunch acidity on the palate, something that will barely be noticed if drunk with food. Meanwhile, the flavors are flashy but smooth, with a play toward coffee, blackberry, chocolate and herbs. Dense and deep; very nice Merlot.
Black in the glass and dense with aromas of cooked blueberry, vanilla, maple syrup, brown sugar, tar, fudge and fresh purple flowers, this wine takes ripeness and concentration to impressive heights. Lavish on the palate with sticky, grippy tannins, the flavors of blueberry fudge, cola, black pepper and lavender are bold and delicious.
Black Label Gavi from the historic La Scolca winery offers zesty freshness backed by crisp aromas of grapefruit and crushed white mineral. The boasts beautiful, clean simplicity.
Black licorice and compost add life and breadth to this roundly tannic, richly layered wine. Huckleberry and dark cherry give it a welcome fruitiness that's ripe and lush, as vanilla and cardamom complement the fruit.
Black licorice and orange zest star in this high-toned wine from a singular clone. It's moderate in acidity, with a strong presence of fresh lemon that lingers through the finish.
Black licorice tops a thick, rich and floral exploration of this variety, made at a reserve level of detail and time in bottle. Cranberry, cherry and currant provide a depth of fruit and brightness, while a beautiful floral note of violet impedes.
Black licorice, blackberry and a luxurious current of dark chocolate play off the palate in this full-bodied, well-crafted and ultimately delicious wine. Plush and lush, it ends memorably in a spark of spicy clove and nutmeg.
Black licorice, cola and cherry liqueur open the nose and segue to black currant and crème de cassis aromas, then forest floor, bramble and Spanish cedar. This wine is linear, crisp and tight on the palate, with firm tannins. Give the wine five more years to soften.
Black licorice, mint and a hint of raisin work the nose. However, the palate on this venerable Ribera wine is a bit jumpy and early on it seems tart and miserly; the upside is that the wine will age for 15 years. To drink now it'll need to go with food. If given plenty of airing or decanting it'll show its best.
Black licorice, raisiny fruit and a little sweaty oak are the name of the game here. Acidity on the palate is searing and tannins are soft, not giving quite enough support. The fruit is on the sour side and the oak a little bitter.
Black loam and black cherry darkness are met with a minty lift, coffee grinds and cigar leaf on this blend of 57% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Franc, 12% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. There are solid tannins and lots of vibrancy on the palate, followed by flavors of fresh red cherries, black peppery spice and dried meats on the finish.
Black olive and lightly baked berry and cassis aromas honestly reflect the wine's Cauquenes old-vines roots. The mouth is tight, granular and jammy, with bold flavors of raisin, plum and berry. This is pretty rich and red-fruited, with a sweet side and controlled medicinal touches.
Black olive dominates on the nose in this blend of 75% Syrah, 12.5% Grenache and 12.5% Mourvèdre, all from Kick Ranch. Lively red fruit is amplified by soft, medium-bodied tannins and a well-composed finish, with just enough earth and spice to go around.
Black olive stars in this supple, soft and supremely varietal wine, wrapped in strong, chalky tannin. Full bodied and completely generous in ripe fruit, it shows complexity and lengthiness on the finish.
Black olive tapenade, cedar and tobacco combine for a memorable effect in this largely structured wine, its tannins and oaks still resolving on the palate. From historic family-farmed vineyard, it's a powerful wine that will benefit with time; cellar through 2020.
Black olive tapenade, savory bay leaf and a tight but energetic body currently characterize this wine. Deep blueberry fruit tantalizes from behind wonderfully firm tannins in this medium-bodied, peppery number.
Black olive, blackberry and smoky charcuterie make this an interesting Merlot. It comes from the cooler confines of Carneros, where it meets the sprawling Sonoma Coast. Austere, the midpalate delves into coffee and chocolate notes.
Black olive, boysenberry, graphite and cracked pepper season up a slightly gamy nose on this bottling from a popular Los Alamos vineyard. The flavors are a study of blackness, with peppercorns, asphalt and deep purple fruits that are both dark and tart, all framed by a boisterous acidity.
Black olive, caper, oregano and exotic spice color the nose of this thickly extracted Aglianico. The wine is tight and solid with rock-hard structure and polished tannins. Pair it with black olive tapenade.
Black olive, slate, black peppercorns, thick-skinned elderberry, charcoal and mocha hide a deep-seated pyrazine aroma on the nose of this bottling. That green-peppercorn flavor also shows on the sip, along with charred plum.
Black on the bouquet, with charred aromas vying with pepper and blackberry. Feels good but choppy, with firm acidity and solid flavors of wild berry, plum, vanilla and chocolate. Fades on the finish with class; a pure and appealing blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Carignan.
Black pepper and acidity, compounded by a lack of richness, combine to make this wine scoury. It has flavors of sour cherry candy and tobacco.
Black pepper and baking spices surround a full-bodied and structured core of raspberry and black cherry in this small-production wine. It finishes in balance and with a touch of elegance.
Black pepper and boysenberries put oomph into this dark-colored and firmly structured wine. While vivid and concentrated, the fruit, spice and dark-chocolate flavors are not sweet, but beautifully dry and appetizing, made to pair with a rare steak or tender osso buco. It will drink best from 2019.
Black pepper and bright cherry on the nose lead into flavors of red berry, cherry and smoke. The restraint is elegant but may be a touch overshot—one wants more from this wine. Pair with poultry and lighter dishes.
Black pepper and grilled beef aromas lead to ripe and almost-sweet flavors that segue from dried plum to roasted walnut and toffee, for a fascinating savory personality. Made with equal amounts Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the wine has firm tannins and brisk acidity to balance a good rich viscosity that helps the finish linger.
Black pepper and juicy blueberry expand on the palate in this juicy, plush and likable 100% varietal wine, accented in full-bodied ripeness and wafts of vanilla smoke.
Black pepper and orange rind complement one another aromatically before riding a medium-bodied layering of soft, seductive texture and acidity, additionally highlighted in rhubarb and black tea. As the wine builds complexity in the glass, it shows a minerality marked by earthy mint on the finish.
Black pepper and rosemary aromas join forces with black cherry and blackberry flavors in this well-balanced, moderately tannic wine. It has a refreshing quality, tasty fruit and medium body, all of which will make it versatle with food.
Black pepper and thick smoke accentuate the bouquet of this cinnamon-spiced wine, rounded out in taste by red plum and dark chocolate. Soft and juicy on the front palate, it will benefit with time to open further, suggesting either a decant or time in cellar, through 2020. The wine is blended with 7% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Black pepper dominates the aroma of this wine, along with black currants, grilled meat and something sweetly spicy and exotic, like a teriyaki dressing. In the mouth, it turns softly sweet and candied. Drink now.
Black pepper is the star of this bone-dry, full-bodied young wine, in both the aroma and the flavor. Below that are bold notes of black currants, plums and leather. The tannins are hard, giving it a mouth-stinging astringency. Your best bet is to cellar it for 3–4 years, but it's somewhat risky.
Black pepper scents meet very ripe berry and cherry aromas in this full-bodied, flavorful wine. It has broad texture, moderate tannins and acidity, and lots of concentration. Saturated with fruit, its ripness keeps unfolding on the finish.
Black pepper, anise, boysenberry and a bit of juniper combine for a slightly funky, somewhat reductive nose on this blend of 46% Grenache, 23% Petite Sirah, 23% Syrah, 6% Carignane and 2% Mourvèdre. There's an ample amount of blackberry jam and chopped Italian herbs on the palate, with an asphalt character in the midpalate and a somewhat tart finish.
Black pepper, black plum and blueberry show on the nose of this bottling from the nearly 900-acre vineyard atop Cuesta Grade, where it enjoys essentially its own dedicated appellation. A very full mouthfeel delivers blueberry and blackberry-paste flavors along with pencil lead, black coffee and bitter espresso. Still a tad firm in structure, this should age well and open even further in the years to come.
Black pepper, blackberry and beef char give a savory style to this bottling, which also has lighter touches of violets and other purple flowers. The palate shows espresso laid across ripe blueberry fruit that carries through the sip, framed by strong but judicious tannins, and spiced with a dill-tarragon character.
Black pepper, condensed lilacs, dark chocolate and a bit of tar show on the nose of this straightforward take on the grape from the longtime producer. The palate is standard in a good way, with more pepper plus blackberry fruit, roasted beef and rosemary-crusted lamb notes, framed by proper tannins and acidity.
Black pepper, cranberry and iron consume the nose on this wine from the Creston district's Italian-minded producer. It's tart and breezy on the palate, with lighter cranberry and pomegranate juices, and plum-skin tannins keeping a bit of sourness in there too. It's tasty, if not particularly Nebbiolo-like.
Black pepper, crushed herbs and red raspberry fruit aromas give this elegant red a place at the dinner table. Red fruit, cedar and vanilla on the palate are balanced with soft acidity. Pair with smoked fish, cheeses and lamb.
Black pepper, espresso, dark berries and woody herbs show on the nose of this blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Sangiovese, 13% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot and 6% Freisa from the Los Alamos and Valley View Vineyards. Stewed blackberries and more pepper show on the densely structured,  acid-laced palate, which also offers coffee and dark chocolate flavors.
Black pepper, graphite and reluctant boysenberry notes balance the rubbery funk on the nose of this cool-climate Syrah. It's fairly light on the palate, with just-ripe boysenberry and chopped Italian herbs.
Black pepper, lavender, blueberry, blackcurrant, grapseseed and smoked game make for a heady nose on this wine from a property just south of the Sana Ynez River. The palate offers tart black fruit and elderberry jam, with just enough pepper and purple flowers to round out the sip.
Black pepper, light fennel and pencil shavings give nuance to a nose otherwise consumed by dark blackberries and touches of violets. Tar and espresso kick off the sip, followed by fruity blueberries and purple flowers. The wine is chalky; still-young tannins will help it last a while.
Black pepper, lightly toasted oak, blue flower and black currant aromas lead the nose and carry over to the palate along with black cherry and licorice notes. This is already approachable, with chewy but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2017.
Black pepper, mature plum and a whiff of damp soil carry over to the dense palate along with chopped herb and black-cherry extract. Assertive close-grained tannins provide the framework and leave a dusty, drying finish.
Black pepper, mineral and berry aromas are integrated and impressive in this Cab. Integrated flavors offer dimension and poise, and substantial structure means it can age. Pair with roast beef or a creamy, aged cheese. An effort to be applauded.
Black pepper, smoke, grilled bread and other robust flavors come to mind when sipping this big, distinctive and well-made wine. While ripe and full bodied, it's not overly fruity or jammy, and retains a sense of reserve and strength along with a very firm backbone of tannin. Best to drink after 2020.
Black pepper, wild cherry and charred-earth aromas follow over to the light-bodied palate along with a hint of salt. It's lively and enjoyable, with lithe tannins. Drink soon.
Black plum and baked red cherry notes meet with concentrated purple flowers and exotic Middle Eastern spices on the nose of this bottling. The palate starts with sour cherry, then dives into richer kirsch, tobacco, leather and coffee flavors, finishing on a dry, sanguine note.
Black plum and berry flavors are topped with toasty oak. This is a bit gripping, but also deep and generous. Flavors of blackberry and dark plum come with oaky accents of clove and pepper, while a woody finish is balanced and powerful.
Black plum and black-cherry flavors are prominent but not too deep on the nose of this bottling. There is noticeable grip on the palate with flavors of black cherry and sagebrush.
Black plum and black currant are jammy on the brambly nose. The smooth tannins take a backseat to the jammy and plummy black fruits on the medium-bodied palate. There is just enough acidity to keep this wine from turning flabby. Black plum, a touch of baking spice and warmth linger on the finish.
Black plum and blueberry lead the nose on this fruit-forward wine, but there's a dark turned-earth component keeping it serious. Thick black fruit like elderberry ride a firm structure on the palate, where smoked beef, black-pepper spice and a vanilla finish combine for a solid bottling.