This is stewy smelling, with tomato leaf and raisiny notes. It feels dense and mature, with mild acidity creating jammy raspberry and plum flavors along with a lot of barrel spice. The oak flavor is dominant on the finish.
This is stiff and herbal, both in scents and flavors. There's a strong streak of earth dampening the light cranberry fruit. The aging in two third new French oak adds a bit of chocolate to the finish.
This is still a bit closed, but scents of rose, berry, white spices and underbrush slowly emerge. The savory flavors include bright berry, black cherry and white pepper supported by lively acidity and firm tannins. Young and tightly wound, it needs time to unfold. Drink after 2022. Chigazola Merchants, Domenico Valentino.
This is still a closed, young wine, but the potential of the spicy, ripe, but still light and elegant fruit is going to be great. Intense concentration seems to be the hallmark of the wines made by Gianni Menotti at this great estate.
This is still a little hard and tight, but shows great ripe red berry fruit and well-balanced tannins. Another Arbor Crest wine with a fine, fragrant bouquet, clean and bursting with fresh fruit scents. It was barrel aged for 20 months in 40% new oak, adding some strength to the tannins and hints of toast to the finish.
This is still a young wine, firm with tannins. The enthusiastic wood aging shows strongly in the smoky toasty flavor. It's hard to find the fruit.
This is still a young wine, with its ripe red fruits and black cherry flavors. The taste of licorice mingles with the fruit and balances with the smoky toast flavors. It's a rich wine that needs time, so drink from 2016.
This is still a young wine, with its youthful structure of dark, stalky tannins still in place. It offers juicy black-currant flavors as well as fresh acidity and a dry aftertaste. The wine comes from a vineyard named after the 17th-century French philosopher Montesquieu. Drink from 2017.
This is still a young wine. It has a serious tight mineral texture and intense acidity. There is a strong spicy element and a richness that comes straight from the deep soil of the vineyard. This important wine needs to age, so drink from 2019.
This is still closed and extremely tannic but opens with aromas of underbrush, mature berry, tilled soil and game. The palate offers dried cherry, grilled sage and a leathery note alongside dry, raspy tannins.
This is still closed but reveals restrained dark fruit and cocoa aromas. The palate is also closed down, showing only hints of blackberry and espresso, with massive tannins and evident alcohol. It lacks freshness and seems tired, although it could be in a mute phase. Hold and try after 2016.
This is still closed tightly and barely wants to give away more than punchy grapefruit zest, but the balanced palate that cushions the fresh but ripe acidity suggests that this will open up gradually. Drink as of 2017.
This is still pretty stiff and tight through the midpalate, with fruit ranging from cranberry to raspberry and sour cherry. Tannins leave a slightly green impression; the wine doesn't seem ripe and full flavored. Some extra bottle age might improve it. Drink 2020 to 2024.
This is still quite closed on the nose, suggesting more mineral and struck flint than fruit. The palate opens gradually, introducing prettier cherry-blossom and strawberry notes, along with a rich lusciously enveloping mouthfeel. The finish is slightly warming.
This is still rather closed, but eventually reveals aromas suggesting red berry, clove and a balsamic note that carry over to the bracing palate along with raspberry extract. It's tightly tannic, with an Amaretto-like finish.
This is still surprisingly fresh considering the age of this wine. It's simple and enjoyable, with mouthwatering cherry flavors layered with mint and white pepper accents. Pair it with rich pasta dishes.
This is still the current release. A very hot vintage in Washington, it leads with a Portlike nose of raisins and prunes; follows with soft, ripe and roasted flavors. The tannins are deep and earthy. Drink now. —P.G.
This is still tightly closed: There are merely some notions of iron oxide on the nose, but otherwise this is brooding and mysterious. The palate, however, has something majestic and sumptuous about it—a warm heart of ripe and aromatic black and red cherry. This just needs to breathe and will unfurl like crimson velvet on your tongue. While this can be approached now as it is beginning to mellow, this will be even better in the years leading up to 2020. Very moreish.
This is still very tightly coiled: the nose says little and the palate holds on tight to its beautifully pure blueberry fruit. There is lip-smacking freshness and a very finely woven tannin structure but this impressive wine does need time to come into itself and relax its fruit. There is something profound and stony about this, something mysterious, brooding and wild. Cellar this and then rejoice. Drink 2020–2035.
This is still young and closed, but pretty aromas of rose, perfumed berry, baking spice and menthol eventually emerge. The palate delivers crunchy red cherry, raspberry, white pepper, anise and a balsamic note alongside austere but fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Give it time to open up and develop complexity. Drink 2018–2028.
This is straightforward and easy, with sweet Meyer lemon, grass, honey and vanilla flavors. Oak-free, it tastes like it might have a little residual sugar.
This is straightforward, no-frills Garnacha with plum and berry aromas followed by a tight, slightly tannic palate that houses raspberry and plum flavors. The finish is smooth for the most part, with some heat and herbal flavors.
This is straightforward, well-made tank-fermented fizz at a bargain price. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir offer hints of toasted brioche and lemon curd, finishing crisp and clean.
This is strongly marked by new oak on the nose at this stage, suggesting toast, brown sugar and coffee, but fruit comes through on the palate where hints of dark berries, cola, clove and cinnamon mingle. The wine is creamy and lush in texture, with ample weight and a lingering finish of dried fruit, vanilla and mocha. Drink from 2018 to 2025.
This is strongly marked by toasty, cedary oak, but enough fruit comes through on the midpalate and finish to suggest this is more than just another oaky red. It's rich and creamy through the midpalate, then finishes long, with mixed berry notes emerging at the end.
This is structured and firm, with its dry tannins prominent along with blackberry and black cherry acidity. The wine does have density, a dusty texture and the chance to further age.
This is structured young Bourgueil, with its stalky dry fruits and spicy character. The fruit is ripe with good potential for aging as the cedar character subsides and the generous fruit takes over. Drink from 2018.
This is structured, its tannins coming through dense and dry. The blackberry fruits give a juicy character that's overlaid by wood. The wine has a firm character, while letting the fruit show well.
This is stunningly good single-vineyard wine. The fruit shows well-ripened apples and peaches all the way into pineapples and mangoes, offering up a cascade of flavors that tumble across the palate. Oak shadings are generous, but in balance. Displays a crispness and delicacy of acids more usually associated with cooler regions. Absolutely first class.
This is stunningly rich in mouthfeel, texture and overall weight. Buttered, toasted nuts and creamy fruits coat the mouth. Oranges, apples and pears roll smoothly and seamlessly along the palate, with a juicy kick to the finish.
This is stylish and smooth up front, with tobacco, graphite, cedar and herbal notes to the bouquet. The mouthfeel is a bit jammy and chewy, with chocolate, licorice, mocha and blackberry flavors. A mild, creamy finish chugs along with coffee notes and ripe black-fruit flavors. Drink now through 2017.
This is stylish Douro, a wine that reveals minerality, red berry fruits with tannins and acidity that cut through the structure. This wine is ready to drink.
This is subdued in a nice way. It does not show a lot of big aromas or bright flavors, but it has an appetizing, firm texture, and it's pleasantly dry and well balanced. Hints of raspberry and pomegranate in the flavors linger on the finish.
This is subdued, almost invisible, with herbal flavors accented with bitter greens. Barely ripe red fruit leaves a flat taste, with no life in it. Two bottles tasted.
This is subtle and almost neutral in flavor, but does have enough crisp mouthfeel to make it taste appetizing. It delivers slight apple-skin aromas and cucumber flavors, light body and a short finish.
This is succulent yet delicate, with dried hay and sweet grass flavors. Textural, vivid and racy, it has a Loire-like mix of fruit, flower and herb, with the possibility of improving still further over the next 4–5 years.
This is such a massive wine, in terms not just of fruit but tannic structure, that it's not really drinkable now. It's just too much of everything. Jammy raspberries and cherries, sweet toasty oak and a generalized heavy mouthfeel make it feel like a melted candy bar. All indications point to the cellar. Give it six years or so to let it begin to mellow.
This is such a perfumed wine with deceptively soft tannins and great fruit. The acidity is classic for the vintage, with raspberries and intense freshness at the end. It has a fine line of tannins and a life that will go far. Drink from 2022.
This is such a refreshing take on the variety, still robust and rich in body, yet possessed of firm acidity and a crispness of cherry kirsch and pomegranate. It practically shouts violets and roses on the nose, following through on the palate with a delicacy of power that's entirely surprising. The finish is a mix of allspice and white pepper.
This is such an elegant wine that has all the structure of the vintage. Surrounding the tannins, the wine is sweet and ripe, with smokiness from the wood. It's powerful, elegant and sophisticated with a strong sense of poise. The tannins promise long-term aging.
This is sugary sweet with a rich spice-cake character, delicate acidity and a full, comfortable style. It's an opulent but balanced wine for dessert with a pleasantly astringent, tight aftertaste.
This is super-rich, but wears its high alcohol lightly. That gives great full fruit, blackberry flavors, a juicy ripe wine that balances the wood and acidity to give fine potential for a year's time.
This is superb Cava, no ifs, ands or buts. Soft, yeasty, complex aromas of bready apple and spice feed into a round, yeasty palate. Bready flavors of pear, papaya and mango end with stony minerality and a closing note of lime.
This is superdark and savory smelling, with aromas of cumin, char, roasted blackberry and licorice. Big tannins and beaming acids structure the palate, which bears toasty, oaky flavors of berries. The finish is spicy and salty.
This is supersmooth and attractive, with earth, cola, tobacco, balsam and solid berry aromas. The palate rings with vitality, while the flavor profile consists of an ideal mix of vanilla, herb, tomato and berry. Dry on the finish, with a leathery note. Drink now–2018.
This is surprisingly light, having dropped significantly in alcohol from the previous vintage. Green-fruit flavors touch on banana and apple, and the wood—31% new and 26% once-used—seems to show a bit of rawness. Give this another couple of years of bottle age before opening.
This is surprisingly plump and accessible, featuring scents of lime rind upfront, then flavors of apple, nectarine and citrus. A medium-bodied wine with a long, mouthwatering finish, it's a tasty near-term drinker but should develop well for up to 10 years.
This is surprisingly soft and one-dimensional for a Rutherford Cabernet. Although you'll find rich cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, the wine lacks depth and structure. Drink now.
This is surprisingly tough and tannic for a 2007, but it does show the vintage's impressive fruit flavors. Notes of blackberry and cherry jam are complexed by touches of cassis liqueur and smoky cedar. The tannins will need to be tamed by rich, fatty fare, like grilled steak.
This is surprisingly tough and tannic for a wine that incorporates 8% of a white variety. But those mouth-drying tannins give shape to the cassis, cranberry and black olive notes. Take a chance by cellaring this rather austere wine for five years or so and see how it develops.
This is Swanson's top Cabernet, which includes a splash of Merlot. As always, it's rich, tannic and dry, and it possesses a deep core of blackberry and black currant flavors. It seems more tannic and sharp than in previous vintages, which suggests its ageability. Try holding it until 2015.
This is sweet Amontillado in fine form. The nose is centered around a core of molasses and brown sugar, while the palate bubbles with maple and toffee. Yes, it's a sweeter-styled Amontillado, but the sugar fades on the palate, leaving only the complex residue of caramel, espresso and burnt cinnamon. A lovely wine for any fan of serious Sherry.
This is sweet and rich up front, with marzipan, balsam wood, berry and kirsch aromas. Expect a full and creamy mouthfeel, with a mix of herb, spice, olive and dark-fruit flavors. Extra spice notes in the form of clove, nutmeg and wood grace the finish of this Carmenère-Syrah-Cabernet-Petit Verdot blend. Drink now–2017.
This is sweet and rich, featuring ripe, spicy fruit, a hint of honey and an opulent texture. Now mature, this is rounded and delicious.
This is sweet and simple, but its slight burn on the finish makes it harder to swallow.
This is sweet, easy, powdery and entirely inviting on the nose. It feels pure and correct on the palate, with apple, white grape, kiwi and lime flavors. The finish is long, sweet and totally comfortable. Only 2,500 were cases made.
This is sweet, soft and easy to drink, despite its scoury mouthfeel. It has fruity raspberry, strawberry and lime flavors.
This is Syrah at its rich and rugged finest, with aromas of grilled game, freshly turned earth, barnyard and even body odor. Once sipped, flavors of a blackberry-crusted roast and clove emerge, with serious tannins that will promise ageability. It's good for drinking now, but can hold until 2017.
This is Syrah co-fermented with Viognier coming from Boushey and Stillwater Creek vineyards. The aromas pop with notes of boysenberry cobbler, orange peel and whiffs of smoked meat, while the palate delivers intensity, flavor and richness.
This is Syrah from the far northwest corner of the Columbia Valley, a cool region, whose wines show an underlying minerality. The berry flavors are subtle; this is a mélange of leaf, herb, rock and acid. Still young, the tannins are drying and the wine seems to be entering a dumb phase. Give it plenty of breathing time.
This is Syrah with great purity of fruit, especially blueberry. The fruit is thick and tongue-coating, though well positioned with supporting acidity. It's a rich, supple wine with tannins and acids that are refined and in perfect proportion.
This is Syrah. It has a classic Napa structure, with finely meshed tannins and soft acids, and has been treated with sweet, smoky oak. Needs to be drier, for the blackberry, currant, cherry and chocolate flavors finish with a sugary sweetness.
This is Talbott's minor bottling of Chardonnay, but it shows the house style. The 2010 vintage was fine, resulting in strong, forward apricot, tangerine, honey and oak flavors, made bold by Central Coast acidity.
This is tan in color, with a flat, murky nose of stone-fruit aromas and chemical harshness. A round, oily textured palate tastes of briny nectarine and pithy bitterness. In many ways, this is like sucking on a peach pit.
This is tannic and almost bitterly herbal, with tomato leaf, stem and earth flavors, but no hint of ripe fruit.
This is tart and also overripe, with a sharp, raisin taste that leads to a bitter finish. A blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon.
This is tart and briary in the mouth, with less-than-ripe tannins and fruit. This has a decent blackberry flavor. Drink up.
This is tart and steely, with a flavor of pear skin rather than pear flesh, along with a green apple note and a whiff of grapefruit. Sharply acidic, it's a wine that should pair well with spicy Asian cuisine.
This is tart in acidity and tastes of raspberry jam, with a bubblegum-gassiness reminiscent of Beaujolais. It's easy and refreshing.
This is tart to the edge of sourness, so much so that flavors of lemon prevail. It might make a suitable wine to quaff with raw oysters, but as a varietal Pinot Blanc it doesn't offer much charm.
This is tart to the point of being outright sour, with flavors of lemon, green banana, and a hint of cracker. Overall the wine just does not come together. Two bottles tasted.
This is tart—like a squeeze of lime was added to the wine. The acids brighten the raspberry and persimmon flavors to give this Pinot Noir a mouth-watering quality. The acidity is characteristic of the cool vintage and the vineyard's location, which is in the cool southwestern part of the valley. Drink now–2015.
This is tastes a little soft and sweet, with raspberry jam, toast and white sugar flavors. Drink now.
This is tastes stalky, with a red fruit flavor. It has acidity along with a vegetal, herbal character. With taut acidity and a dry, tannic finish, this is a real barbecue wine.
This is tasty in a ripe, extravagantly fruity way. Raspberry and strawberry aromas seem as sweet as syrup. The full body and alcoholic strength give it a strong texture, but without too much tannic grip. Barbecued ribs or a cheese plate could be great matches.
This is tasty stuff, not only because it has the prettiest lemon and lime tastes, but the crisp acidity makes it lively on the palate. It's dryish, with a honeyed, ripe sweetness that lasts long into the finish.
This is tasty, quite ripe and bold in flavor but comfortable in mouthfeel. Soft tannins are apparent and lend some grip to the texture while the acidity is very low and the finish short.
This is tasty, with strawberry and watermelon flavors, moderate sweetness and crisp acids. In short, an excellent summer sipping wine.
This is taut and dense, and requires time and air to untangle. Deep, dark fruits are mixed in with layers of black olive, smoke, compost, tar, moist earth and herb—a delicious mélange of flavors that promises good things to come as the wine ages. It's masterful winemaking in a package so young and wrapped up tight that it may pass you by if you don't give it a good look.
This is taut and mineral, with hidden power. It's very closed at this stage. It's a wine with acidity and notes of green fruits and crisp apples, with just a touch of wood. This will age for many years.
This is taut and minerally, with intense acidity. The structure comes from tangy notes of lemon zest and peach skin. There is some discreet wood aging, but it remains crisp and refreshing.
This is taut and sinewy in profile, but shows off a fine range of aromas, from thyme and lavender to cocoa, red plum and ripe cherry. The raspberry and herb flavors finish in a storm of firm tannins. Drink 2020–2025.
This is technically a white wine but with eyes closed it could be taken for a big red. The color is orange, the aromas are earthy and extremely citric, while the flavors are laser focused on orange and lemon zest. Acidity and tannins coat the palate and give it a mouth-puckering grip. It's not for the meek, but the adventurous will love it.
This is technically dry, but rich in sweet flavor—like a gingerbread cookie. There's also a lot of tangerine and pear fruit. The acidity is just fine, giving the richness a bracing quality. Try pairing this with a lightly sugared fruit tart, although it should also go with a vast range of foods, especially Asian fare.
This is Tendril's reserve offering, better than ever in 2014. Deeply inscribed flavors of black cherry, cola and espresso come through in a textural, detailed and quite delicious wine. It's the darkest of the winery's Pinots, barrel aged for 16 months and bottle aged for another year prior to release. Toasted nuts, crackers and a dash of salt complete the flavors.
This is Terlato's ambitious entry into the cult Cabernet lottery. Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, it's an elaborate wine, deep and long in blackberry, cherry, currant, mocha and sandalwood flavors. The tannins are impressive, yet young, giving a tough, astringent mouthfeel. But ageability is brought into question by some superripeness, in the form of raisins.
This is Terre Rouge's priciest Syrah, a barrel selection of the best lots. It's a big wine. No, make that huge. Godzilla-esque. Just explodes in the mouth with massive flavors of blackberry and black cherry jam, milk chocolate, anise, cedar and pepper. Finishes bone dry, and the tannins are also gigantic, but very finely ground. You need to cellar this puppy. Best after 2010, for about six years.
This is textbook Central Otago Pinot, from the nuances of wild thyme to the bold cherry fruit and mouthwatering finish. This medium-bodied wine is structured enough to last several years, but soft enough to drink now.
This is textbook Clare Valley dry Riesling, with lime sherbet aromas and flavors that come across as slightly one-dimensional at this young age. It's medium bodied, with a slightly dusty texture that's especially notable on the long finish. Drink now–2025.
This is textbook juice for the cellar. A cool, herbal nose turns cedary and stout. It's wall-to-wall tannins now, with complex flavors of red fruits mingling with tomato leaf, oregano, spice and tobacco (reflections of the 40% Cabernet Sauvignon that goes with more familiar Malbec). A bullish finish with mild green notes should soften with aging. Drink from 2014 to 2021.
This is textbook Marlborough Pinot Noir, featuring aromas that hint at mushroom, beetroot and ripe cherries. The palate is on the light side, with silky tannins and crisp acids that bend the fruit toward pie cherry and cranberry on the tart finish. Drink now.
This is textbook Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie—meaning that fruit is sourced from anywhere within the region—with characteristic aromas of Golden Delicious apple, pear, natural rubber, yellow fruit, honey and a playful touch of citrus zest. Broad dimension and a spicy finish call for a dish like sweet and sour pork.
This is textbook Pinot Grigio with a hint of nut, natural rubber or white stone in the background that renders a dusty quality overall. It imparts fresh citrus flavors over a thin consistency.
This is textbook Prosecco Extra Dry with sweet fragrances of stone fruit and white flower backed by mineral shadings and delicious honey. The wine is simple with lively acidity on the close.
This is textbook Rioja gran reserva from a ripe, generous year. Aromas of cassis and prune blend with toasty, creamy oak. Fresh acidity is a lifesaver, because the tannins and oak level are up there. Flavors of tobacco, currant, vanilla and red plum end with a reprise of crisp acids and oak. This will last another 20 years before any fading comes into play.
This is textured and dense with red berry fruits and red currant crispness. Rich, it also shows some minerality and a zesty edge. This is a real apéritif rosé with its soft aftertaste and lift of acidity.
This is the 33rd vintage of this landmark Zinfandel, which, since it's a blend that includes just 74% Zinfandel in it, isn't technically Zinfandel at all. Whatever. It's just plain delicious, old-vine, succulent juice. Jammy, juicy, vibrant and tight, it has a long life ahead.
This is the annual good-value Pinot Noir from the Talley Vineyards team. It presents tight, slow-emerging aromas of graphite, raspberry and cooked rhubarb. Bitterness is at the core of the palate, bolstered by dark red fruits.
This is the annual release of a small, isolated vineyard block that's dry-farmed and named for the winemaker. The unctuous bottling shows luxurious aromas of baked black cherries, cinnamon, clove, cream and a touch of iron. The rich dark red-fruit flavors show on the sip, where the surrounding chaparral herbs invade the palate, offering dried sagebrush, eucalyptus and a wild mint sensation that last deep into the finish.
This is the Arnoux family's top wine coming from vines on the revered hill of Corton. It is a powerful wine, properly rich and structured from the vintage. Wood and spice come through although they will soon integrate with the dense black-plum fruits and mineral texture. Drink the wine from 2025.
This is the artist label Merlot; a firm, spicy expression of fruit from the Lewis vineyard. Threads of liquid smoke, spice and coffee are woven into the red fruits—a mix of strawberry, raspberry and cherry flavors. Still young and sharp, it has some heat in the finish. Additional bottle age recommended.
This is the best barrel blend from the vintage, utilizing 40% Clos Pepe, 40% Bentrock, 10% Zotovich and 10% Kessler-Haak vineyards. Rounded aromas of Pink Lady apple mix with chalk, seared lemon peels and a savory saltiness on the nose. The palate is delicate in flavor but strong on grippy texture, with sliced apple, tangy kumquat and grapefruit pith.
This is the best Delamotte vintage since 1996, a ripe and rich wine that brings out the chalky soil character with a strong mineral content. It has weight along with a relatively high dosage that gives softness. It is balanced, fruity and ready to drink.
This is the best Enemigo Cabernet Franc to date. It's pure, heady, powerful juice with integrated smoky oak and spice aromas. Pure in the mouth, this is dense and full of quality. Blackberry and chocolate flavors are ripe and modern in style, while the finish is full, leathery, a touch salty and savory. Drink through 2019.
This is the best example of this wine I can remember, as it manages to toe the fine line between being boldly aromatic and going over the top. Nettles and grapefruit, hints of white currants and passion fruit, it has something to offer any Sauvignon Blanc lover, finishing long and fresh.
This is the best fourteen buck Pinot Noir on the market. It shows plenty of Pinot character, with its silky mouthfeel and cherry, raspberry, cola and spice flavors that finish so dry and clean. Highly recommended for restaurants that want to feature a distinctive California Pinot at an inexpensive price.
This is the best Jewel Block bottling ever from Dutton. The vineyard is in the heart of Green Valley, one of the coolest parts of Russian River, and the magnificent vintage has yielded a fantastically ripe wine, balanced with rich, crisp acidity. The flavors of cherries, raspberries, cola, tangerine zest and dusty Asian spices are rich and deep, but the wine is very young. Give it until mid-2008, and it will drink well through 2013, at least.
This is the best Obsidian Cab since the 2002, and for similar reasons. It was a good vintage for Cabernet. The wine is rich and peppery and lush in black currant flavors, with beautifully sculpted, ripe tannins. Provides more evidence that this Red Hills of Lake County appellation has enormous potential for Cabernet.
This is the best of Cru's 2010 Pinot Noirs, and it shows real Santa Lucia complexity. It's a dry wine, with brisk acids and supple tannins. It has a flashy core of cherry, red currant, licorice and smoky, sweet sandalwood flavors. Drink this over the next 2–3 years.
This is the best of Laetitia's current sparklers. It's the smoothest and finest in texture, with a mouthfeel that's all silk and satin. The flavors, of raspberries, limes, smoky vanilla and yeast, are similar to the winery's other bottlings, but the fine smoothness shoots the point score up. Now through 2012.
This is the best of the 2015 vineyard designates from Soléna. It's a pretty wine with bright raspberry fruit. There's a gentle touch of stem, which helps to frame it, and a dark vein of espresso and cacao running through the tannins.
This is the best of the new releases from Seven Bridges, a Portland-based winery with a penchant for Washington State fruit. Smooth, balanced and mouth-filling, this offers a truffle highlight that sits over the bright berry and cherry flavors.
This is the best Pinot Gris yet from Jones; the grapes were sourced from the 2 Gun Vineyard in the upcoming Ancient Lakes region—a future American Viticultural Area. Leesy and creamy, it seduces with a layer of rich cream wrapped around bright orange and semitropical fruit flavors. It's full and fresh, and it lingers.
This is the best Pinot Noir the winery has produced since 2004. The wine is so wonderfully full in the mouth and fabulously complex in flavor that it's hard to believe the alcohol is under 13%. With lovely, haunting flavors of raspberries, red currants, mushrooms, white pepper and sandalwood, it justifies the hype of the 2011 vintage. Will age well. Drink now–2021.
This is the best Pinot Noir yet from the Drouhin estate; immensely concentrated and rich. The fruit is complex and penetrating, focused and long, layered throughout a generous and extended finish. Cherries and chocolate linger on the palate, resonating long after the wine has been swallowed.
This is the best Potelle Syrah I've ever had, but be forewarned: It's an extraordinarily tannic wine that shows its 1,800-foot mountain origins. It clocks in at 13.9% alcohol, yet it's bone dry. The fruit is powerfully concentrated in blackberries enhanced with sweet, smoky oak. If ever there was a Syrah for the cellar, this is it. Best now (if you like young tannic wines, but please decant) and for at least eight years, as it gradually mellows.
This is the best Protos wine I've ever tasted. The nose offers up tobacco, moss and soft berry aromas. In the mouth, it's intense, deep and still tannic, with baked, earthy flavors of blackberry, plum, tobacco and coconut. The finish is stuffed with chocolate, herb, spice and cola flavors along with undeniable density. An excellent wine to drink now through 2020.
This is the best Valbuena since 2005, and it may be better than that. Exotic aromas of leather, lemon peel, sawdust and boysenberry come in front of a tannic but lively and intricate palate. Baked, heady flavors of black fruits, pepper and mocha finish with chocolate and vanilla as well as juicy acidity. Drink now through 2022.
This is the best value of the winery's spring lineup of seven 2012 Pinot Noirs. It's dry, delicate, modest in alcohol, tart and complex. Waves of raspberries and cherries, mushrooms, red currants, Dr. Pepper cola and exotic spices wash across the palate, delicious and flashy. It's ready to drink now.
This is the best vintage of Delaforce table wine so far. It has weight, density, great red fruits and a final freshness. A ripe wine, with some spice and hints of wood aging, it is ready to drink but can be enjoyed until 2020.
This is the best wine from Liberalia we've reviewed to date. Jammy blackberry, wild raspberry and licorice aromas are controlled but potent. Flush, dense and wide on the palate, this features manageable tannins along with pure blackberry and cassis flavors touched up by toasty oak. Espresso and burnt toast notes take over on the finish as the fruit slips away. Drink through 2030.
This is the big one, one of the most treasured white wine vineyards in the world. And the wine is magnificent, balanced with restrained power and style. Yellow fruits are shot through with acidity that conveys a nervy texture and an intense, concentrated character. This needs many years; don't drink before 2020.
This is the big wine from Famaey. Bold, ripe black fruits are rich and generous in character. With a tarry backdrop and some dry tannins from wood aging, the wine is dense, generous and still young. Drink this powerful wine from 2020.
This is the biggest and ripest of Talley's Pinots, the kind some criticize as Rhône-like. Yes, it's full-bodied, and you might mistake it for Grenache, with its cherry flavors and voluminous tannins. Yet it's beautifully balanced and complex, and should develop bottle complexity for a decade. If you drink it now, pair with big dishes, like duck or game.
This is the biggest, most tannic and closed of the winery's three new 2007 Syrahs, and also the one most likely to improve in the cellar. It's intense and concentrated in pure blackberry and black cherry fruit, with the pepper, bacon, earth and smoky oak notes you want in a good 100% Syrah. But then, there are those big tannins. Give it a good 4–6 years.
This is the biggest, ripest and most expensive of Von Strasser's new releases and also the least satisfying at the moment. It's explosive in blackberries, cherries, blueberries, mulberries, chocolate and cedar, and comes across as a bit direct and jammy. Could surprise after 5–6 years in the cellar.
This is the biggest, ripest, most Californian of Calera's new '05s. It has delicious berry, orange tea, spice and vanilla flavors, and is very dry, but also quite soft. There's not a whole lot of structure. It may be going through an awkward phase. Could surprise over the years, as previous Caleras have.
This is the blended Bordeaux from Calvet, one of the oldest wine names in the city. It's full and ripe, a rounded wine that has good berry fruits as well as a drier, firmer core. At the end, a more smoky character appears.
This is the brand's first bottling under new ownership, and the result of this blend of Monterey, Sonoma and Santa Barbara county fruit is familiarly ripe—due in part to the inclusion of 10% Merlot, 6% Chardonnay and 2% Syrah. Pomegranate, clove, vanilla and rum aromas lead into a juicy palate of candied red fruit, slate, anise and Earl Grey tea. It's slightly sweet but easily enjoyable.
This is the branded Bordeaux from Jean-Luc Thunevin, so-called Bad Boy (Mauvais Garçon) of Saint-Émilion, now respected owner of Grand Cru Classé Château Valandraud. It is a richly smooth wine with touches of wood and generous blackberries. Concentrated and lightly tannic, it is fruity and ready to drink.
This is the brightest, least char-inflected of the winery's red lineup, though it still wraps its berry fruit flavors in a thick cloak of roasted coffee and charred wood notes. Heavy toast seems to be the winery's preferred style, though here it doesn't completely cover the lovely fruit.
This is the casual sipper of the Château de Nages rosé pair, offering slightly briny, fumé notes on the nose, but following them up with peach and melon fruit flavors that finish long, crisp and dry.
This is the classic dessert wine from Valpolicella. The palate is dense and concentrated, with plum cake, prune and fig layered with spice and pipe tobacco. It's velvety smooth but also has fresh acidity, making it a perfect match for seasoned cheeses or to sip on its own after dinner.
This is the companion wine to the equally-flirty Buxom Blonde White. Here the blend includes Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese. It has substantial scents and flavors of fig and prune, earth and espresso. Done in a dark, soft, ready-to-drink style, it's fine for drinking with any barbequed meats.
This is the coolest and freshest of the Grand Cru vineyards. The wine is tight, steely with a nervy core of acidity that gives it a textured, structured character. It is full of energy, crisp, packed with apples and citrus and needing several years aging. Drink from 2020.
This is the costliest of Stolpman's new reds and easily the best. It impresses for the depth of flavor and classic, dense structure. A co-fermented blend of Sangiovese and Syrah, it shows imposingly complex layers of dark stone fruits and berries, dark chocolate, bacon, dusty Indian spices and sweet, smoky sandalwood, wrapped into powerfully rich but gently ground tannins. Very fine, approaching the profound. Now–2013 before it loses freshness.
This is the Couture family's top-of-the-range wine from Eugénie. It is dense and layered with wood, blackberry fruits and a complex structure of tannins, smoky flavors and acidity. This is a serious wine that needs to age. It is still developing so drink from 2019.
This is the culty Santa Cruz Mountains-based winery's entry level blend of 35% Mourvèdre, 27% Grenache, 19% Carignane, 16% Syrah and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it'll put hooks in newbies, with elegant, soft and silky aromas of violet. The palate combines the purple flowers with acai fruit flavors, making for an addictive sip.
This is the current release from Guigal, which makes it one of the few Hermitages on store shelves that's ready to drink. It's medium to full in weight, chunky and assertive, but not overly concentrated or tannic. Instead, it delivers beefy notes of coffee, black olive and spice, backed by hints of raspberries and cedar.
This is the darkest, biggest, richest of Raymond's 2007 Cabernets. It's ripe and full in blackberries and currants, with a thick coating of sweet, toasty oak, but it's not really drinkable now because the tannins are so strong. Designed for the cellar, it should develop bottle complexity over the next 10–12 years.
This is the deal of the century for wine made at this level from vines dating back as far as 1881, the wine sourced from two sites, the Saitone and Banfield ranches. Yeasty baked bread and juicy strawberry commingle around black currant and blood orange, the texture smoothly seductive, with a cradling of dried herb as a back note.
This is the definition of a lovely Russian River Pinot that's ready to drink soon. It's silky in the mouth, with light tannins and brisk acidity framing savory flavors of raspberries, cola and toast. A rich streak of mushroomy earthiness adds to the attraction.
This is the densest, most tannic of Pride's new releases, obviously meant for the cellar. You could drink it now, because it's so lush, but the tightness suggests that the winemaker doesn't want you to. Buried under the astringency are masses of cassis, dark chocolate, sweet fresh herbs and smoky oak. Better after 2010.
This is the driest of Iron Horse's new releases, but it still has a honeyed richness even though the residual sugar is a comparatively low half a percent. It feels refined, fancy and elegant, with delicious raspberry, lime and toast flavors. The blend is 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay.
This is the driest of the Ellner wines, with no dosage. The result is relatively soft at first, although as the wine opens out it gives an almost wincingly fresh character. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this wine should age in bottle. Drink after 2016.
This is the driest of the wines in this producer's range. A high proportion of Pinot Meunier gives it fruitiness to balance the dryness. It is light and poised with white fruits and good acidity. The mineral texture makes this balanced Champagne a match with many salty foods.
This is the driest wine in an already-dry range of Champagnes. With no dosage, it is crisp, tight and mineral. The high proportion of Pinot Meunier in the blend brings out the the flavors of white fruits and the crisp texture. The bottling is still young and will be better from 2017.
This is the driest, most concentrated and sophisticated of Kenwood's current trio of Merlots, and also the only one that will benefit from cellaring. It's compact in blackberry, currant, tea, leather and spice flavors that finish with a scour of tannins. Best 2008–2011.
This is the dry white wine made from the Sauternes estate of Rayne Vigneau. Grapefruit and other citrus flavors are prominent, cutting through the taut texture, along with with a light touch of honey that gives richness. The wine needs to age a little longer, so drink from late 2016.
This is the entry-level red from this estate in the heart of the Dão region. Its red-berry fruits are bright, bursting from the glass, bringing a firmer tannic core and a mineral texture. The wine is a typical blend of the region with Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro and Jaen. The oak aging has given the wine a smooth ripe aftertaste. Drink from 2018.
This is the entry-level red from this family-owned estate. It is soft and juicy with some attractive red-berry fruits. The tannins are really gentle just giving a structure to the warm fruits and acidity. Drink now.
This is the entry-level wine at Passadouro, with generous fruits and black plum flavors. It has spice from the wood aging along with generous tannins that don't detract from the rich nature and open fruits. The aftertaste shows a wine that is ready to drink.
This is the entry-level wine at Vallado, one of the Douro's top quintas. Full of berry fruits, it also has layers of tannins and acidity, but is rich and soft enough now not to need much aging. Although it could be drunk now, it will be better from 2016.
This is the entry-level wine from Château Eugénie, and it is delicious. The Malbec is softened with some Merlot, rounding out the wine. It does still preserve the solid structure of Cahors with its dense black fruits and firm tannins.
This is the entry-level wine from this Alvarinho specialist. A blend with Trajadura, it is crisp, light and bright. Tangy orange and lemon zest flavors give the wine its tight, lively acidity and refreshing aftertaste. Drink now.
This is the entry-level wine from this biodynamic estate. It is full of flavor, ripe from the lees aging and with intense acidity to balance. It goes more to the apple side of Muscadet, producing a wine that is rich and full bodied. Drink from late 2017.
This is the entry-level wine from this estate situated in the small area of Coteaux Varois. It is a really fruity blend of Grenache and Cinsault. Bright red fruits and crisp acidity give a dry wine with great fruitiness. Drink now.
This is the entry-level wine from this fine producer. It is soft, laced with acidity and grapefruit. Sliced apples add a further texture and bring out the steely edge of the wine. It has ripe fruit and a tangy aftertaste. It's ready to drink now.
This is the entry-level wine from this producer based in the Marne Valley. That's the land of Pinot Meunier and this Champagne contains 74% of the grape, giving a soft rounded wine. It has delicious acidity with citrus and red-berry fruit and a lightly crisp texture that is balanced by the soft ripe aftertaste. Drink now.
This is the entry-level wine from this producer. Following the vintage, it is rich, juicy with white fruits as well as citrus and already refreshing. There is an attractive bite of minerality at the end. Drink now.
This is the entry-level wine from this quality estate. It is simple, fruity and ripe with attractive red fruits. Brightly crisp, it is ready to drink.
This is the entry-level wine from Vallado, bright and fruity, with an attractive red-berry flavor and a solid, tannic core. As is typical with the 2010 vintage, it has some structure and should be aged for another year.
This is the entry-level wine of this estate. It shows a crisp side of Cabernet Franc while keeping all its perfumed character. The wine is structured with young tannins as well which are balanced with acidity and bright red-berry fruits. Drink from 2018.
This is the epitome of a composed, approachable Rioja reserva; it's earthy and dry up front, with aromas of fine herbs, brandied cherry and plum. A solid palate houses oaky flavors of vanilla and butter in addition to plum and currant, while the finish is dry, elegant and oaky enough to give off a popcorn-like character. Drink through 2022.
This is the epitome of a dark, strapping, modern wine from an Old World region. Coffee, mocha and spicy yet smooth black-fruit aromas precede a rich, racy, agile feeling palate, with toasty flavors of berry fruits, licorice, mocha and espresso. Mint and licorice flavors combine with firm tannins and heat on the finish. Hold until 2015, then drink through 2023.
This is the epitome of an innocuous white wine. Modest cantaloupe aromas lead to a rudimentary palate with mealy grapefruit and stone-fruit flavors. A chalky, stony finish is simple ad straightforward.
This is the epitome of Provence rosé, made for balmy oceanside drinking. It is fruity and tangy, with an attractive bite of acidity to lift the fresh while rounded character.
This is the equivalent of a second wine from Les Valentines, a lighter version of the estate wine. With lively acidity, it is fruity while rounded, crisp but also sweet with ripe strawberry flavors. The acidity at the end is soft, light and bright.
This is the equivalent of a third wine from Château Giscours, a blend that is ready to be drunk young. Young is a relative term in this structured vintage, although it is already possible to see the rich fruitiness that will be in place soon. Drink this still-firm wine with potential from 2017.
This is the equivalent of the top wine, or grand vin. It is certainly impressive, and probably needs at least 10 years aging. The dense tannins are powerful, while the plum jam fruits are superripe, yet certainly keeping in balance. A great, ripe wine.
This is the estate bottling, barrel-fermented in French oak and put through full malolactic. Spice and toast frame perfectly ripened tree fruit flavors of apple, pear and orange peel. The concentration and length suggest that this Chardonnay can be cellared for up to a decade.
This is the estate bottling, lush and round, with a Chardonnay-like mouthfeel from barrel fermentation. Flavors of citrus and apricot fruit, expressions of a cool vintage, pull it into sharp focus. A smattering of toast and butter threads through the finish.
This is the estate vineyard, and really shines in this excellent vintage. Flavors of strawberry pastry filling come up just short of jammy, while the aging for 18+ months in new and neutral oak brings accents of toast and vanilla. It has the stuffing to age nicely over the next six to eight years.
This is the estate wine from this property named after the stag that was hunted by the French King Francis I in the 16th century. It is softly fruity with a balance between the ripe raspberry fruit and light acidity. Drink this summer.
This is the family's top wine—a blend of selected Pinot Noir and Chardonnay lots from their 25 acres. Made to be aged, it still shows its extra-crisp fruit and acidity, needing time to soften and bring out its full, rich potential. Drink from 2019.
This is the fifth vintage for this rare Washington version of Petite Sirah. It is almost jet black in the center, purple at the rim, tight and tannic with plenty of acid sculpting the earthy, black cherry fruit. Loaded into the finish are layers of earth, iodine, tar and licorice; it's very well made and retains just enough roughness to satisfy lovers of this often rustic grape.
This is the finest Cabernet from Gordon Estate in some time; forward and pretty, with a juicy mix of red fruits. The raspberry and cherry and currant flavors are nicely defined and deep, underscored with crisp acidity, and showing the sort of youthful concentration that suggests further cellaring is in order. Nonetheless, it's a wine to enjoy right away simply for its luscious, exuberant fruit.
This is the finest Cheval Blanc for many years. It is, quite simply, magnificent. The wine shows the greatness of Cabernet Franc in the vintage, with 57% of the variety in the blend. It is beautifully structured and perfumed, with velvety tannins, balanced acidity and swathes of black-currant and black-cherry fruits. It's well on course to becoming a legendary wine.
This is the finest of the winery's three new rosés, and kudos to them for specializing in blush. The vineyard is in the Green Valley, and the wine shows long hangtime raspberry and cherry fruit, brightened with crisp acidity. It all leads to a dry, spicy finish, and the alcohol is a refreshingly low 13.2% by volume.
This is the first all-estate-grown Chardonnay bottled by Woodward Canyon since 2003. Fermented in one-year-old Burgundy barrels, it's a Washington Chablis that brings exceptional focus and persistence to bear on flavors of intense citrus, honeyed candy, orange peel, spice and even a slim hint of chocolate. The mix of fruit, herb and mineral combines to create a terroir-laden wine that is beautifully complex and proportioned.
This is the first Cabernet Sauvignon release from Meomi founder Joe Wagner. Sourced from vineyards across the appellation, it shows simple yet focused dark cherry and chocolate flavors, dusty tannin and subtle oak, within a framework of moderate acidity and ripeness.
This is the first Chardonnay for Daedalus Cellars. Flavors are rich and full-bodied, with candied orange peel, sweet citrus and vanilla most noticeable among them. Left on the lees for almost 18 months, this is wide open and ready to drink.
This is the first Chardonnay from Elk Cove in 20 years. The grapes were pressed whole cluster and fermented in large French oak puncheons. It's tight and firm, supple and tasting of ripe citrus, pear and stone fruits, with phenolic highlights.
This is the first Chardonnay release from Anam Cara, estate grown from young vines, and softened by secondary fermentation. The flavors suggest almond and butter, light citrus, a whiff of toast and a taste of cracker. It's smooth, with a lemony finish.
This is the first Chenin Blanc from this up-and-coming winery. All native yeast fermented and aged in stainless steel, the aromas pop, with notes of pear, apple, lees and melon. Sleek in style, it brings a sense of brightness and purity of flavor and bright acids. Very varietally correct, it's a compelling example of Chenin in the state. Pair it with food to see it at its best.
This is the first Dineen designate from :Nota Bene, and it's worth chasing down. Focused dark purple and black fruits line up—cherry, plum and cassis—with a rich layer of espresso and a lick of graphite following. The 22 months in barrel brings an interesting hint of caramel to a nicely balanced finish.
This is the first Grüner fruit from Underwood Mountain, and it promises good—maybe great—things to come. Sleek and stony, the wine epitomizes the racy, slightly grassy, slightly peppery quality of classic Austrian Grüner, with a Pacific Northwest twist—a certain brilliant intensity to the fruit that reflects this northern latitude. Clearly the best Grüner from Oregon or Washington to date.
This is the first Grenache from Nefarious, and it's a beauty. Sourced from the Upland vineyard in the tiny Snipes Mountain AVA, it is bursting with pure, sweet fruit flavors, tart and lip-smackingly juicy. A subtle minerality with a hint of wet cement gives it tannic authority, while the aging in once-filled French oak barrels adds a touch of baking spices.
This is the first of 15 estates the Gonfrier family owns throughout Bordeaux. There are strong wood influences here, although the fruit is enough to match up. So ripe pear and apricot flavors go with those toasty characters to give a rich, full-bodied wine. It will be better from late 2016.
This is the first offering of this wine where Cabernet Franc (37%) takes the lead, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon (27%), Merlot (23%), Malbec (7%) and Petit Verdot. It's drinking young now, with wound-up herbs, cherry, chocolate and cranberry flavors backed by firm, gripping tannins. It will be best after 2021.
This is the first Pinot from the Napa house of Pahlmeyer, the result of many years of effort in his vineyard in the Fort Ross area of the true Sonoma Coast. The result is rich in cherry pie, raspberry liqueur, cotton candy, licorice, vanilla and cinnamon flavors that captivate from sip one, but there's a certain young vine simple directness that limits the score. As the vines age, the wine is one to watch.
This is the first release for the Four Brothers designation. Tastes of brown sugar flavors filling in around a thin core of barely ripe fruit. The sweet impression returns in the finish, this time with a lick of maple syrup.
This is the first release from Cadence's estate vineyard, a 94/6 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cab Franc. Sharp and intense, the nose brings out tightly wound red fruit scents, annotated with leaf and white pepper. In this inaugural vintage the Cabernet Sauvignon clearly dominates. A supple, muscular, focused wine with the structure to develop nicely for up to a decade.
This is the first release from the newly-planted estate vineyard, located further up Red Mountain on rock-strewn soil. Resulting in juice remarkable for such young vines that's showing tight wild berry flavors and a firm base of mineral and chalk.
This is the first release from this new winery, and was crafted by Jared Etzel using Bonnie Jean and Schindler vineyard fruit. It's a lovely mix of blueberry, raspberry and cherry flavors, lively and bright, with polished acidity and 30% new oak just peeking through. Drink it young with a nice chunk of wild salmon, or age it a few years and bring on the lamb chops. Either way, you're in for a treat.
This is the first release from this particular vineyard for the Syrah-focused winery. Its aromas, which pop with notes of strawberry and spice, have both herbal and copper-penny undertones. The fruit and savory flavors play well off of each other, showing a sense of elegance and deftness, with a touch of new wood that contributes to the flavor and feel. The finish stretches out. It still drinks quite young and if the aromas meld together could move up a notch or two.
This is the first release of the new vintage from Soléna. Primary fruit flavors of strawberry and raspberry seem a bit disjointed, and there is a hole in the midpalate. A suggestion of rubber tire sets in as the wine finishes. More bottle age is in order.
This is the first release of this new vineyard site for the producer, from a cool property planted by the producer with the help of local grower Jim Pratt, who also supplies Pinot Noir under the Pratt Vineyard name. Still working things out, the wine is earthy and intense, a tightly wound expression of tart cherry and pomegranate, with layers of intriguing clove and dried herbs.
This is the first release of this new wine from Stonestreet. It's Merlot with some Cabernet, Syrah and Cab Franc. Grown in Jess Jackson's high mountain vineyards, it's rich and soft in black currant, cherry, mocha and smoky oak flavors, with smooth, easy tannins. Best now and through 2010.
This is the first reserve for Bridgeview. It's a block selection, treated the same as their regular bottling; i.e., all stainless, no malolactic. That said, it has an extra dimension, good texture, more elegance and lovely fruit.
This is the first reserve for this unassuming, low-profile winery whose wines clearly belong in the first rank of Washington's boutiques. It shows classic Cabernet fruit from three top vineyards, long and persistent, yet never over extracted or alcoholic. True Bordeaux style in an elegant, ageworthy wine. Editors' Choice.
This is the first reserve Malbec from Seven Hills, the winery that first introduced this as a varietal wine in the Walla Walla Valley. Inviting aromas of pepper, coffee, vanilla and cream introduce a dark and sappy wine, with concentrated raspberry and blackberry fruit at its core. Superb ripeness and lift from the juicy acidity mark this as indeed reserve-level in quality.
This is the first reserve Pinot Gris from the winery—half fermented in stainless, half in barrel. The wine feels as if it's very lightly oxidized, with dusty, tawny apple flavors that recall a good hard cider. Its power is in the persistent, bone dry finish, that never quits. Drink now through 2018.
This is the first Riesling from Whitman, and it's a beauty. Lovely, inviting aromas mix roses and rocks, leading into fresh, layered, complex fruit flavors of pear, apple, white peach and orange. It's got plenty of acid so the residual sugar is almost undetectable, but the alcohol stays at a Germanic 12.5%. This is so good it makes you wish that winemaker Steve Lessard had been doing Riesling all along.
This is the first round of wines from this project by John Wagner, who owns parts of Sierra Madre and John Sebastiano vineyards, and winemaker Paul Lato. Black-plum skins, roasted game, anise and sandalwood aromas show on the nose. Earthy and zesty, the palate delivers cranberry-beet juice along with roasted fennel, eucalyptus oil and bitter Earl Grey tea touches.
This is the first Sauvignon Blanc Santa Rita has done under its higher-end Floresta label. This has its share of qualities, namely lemon-lime and grapefruit aromas, body weight that separates it from the simple-but-zesty category, and depth of fruit. Drink as soon as possible.
This is the first table wine to come from this Cava producer and it has its ups and downs. The bouquet smells like Sprite with peach, while the palate is crisp, citric and pointed, with orange and lime flavors and an oxidized, stalky note to the finish. This is good but middle of the road as white wines go.
This is the first Tempranillo from Animale, and it's a soft, supple wine with a pleasing mix of red berries and light tanned leather. It's well made, balanced and interesting, with hints of rose petals and dried leaves.
This is the first Tempranillo from Zefina (just 60 cases made) from vines planted at the Alder Ridge vineyard in 1999. It is soft, fruity and dark, with some pretty spice showing in the nose. There are attractive floral notes, sweet herbs and a mix of light red fruits to follow. The tannins are soft and the acids are well under control, leading into a lightly chocolaty finish.
This is the first time a Cabernet Franc has been made at Spring Valley since 2003. It's rich and earthy, tannic and concentrated, with plum and black cherry dusted with light mocha. Smooth and supple in the mouth, it glides into a tasty finish with toasted almonds.
This is the first time a King Coal has been made, all sourced from the Stoneridge Vineyard. It's a unique and delicious wine, seamless and complex. The flavors are amazingly detailed, with layer upon layer of candied fruit, raisins, Bourbon barrel, Asian spice, ginger, toast and more. The flavors pile on and continue into a seemingly endless finish, resonating into a spicy blend of fruit and Christmas cookies.
This is the first time this recently purchased vineyard has been featured as an Elk Cove designate. Planted in 2007, it's just coming into its own. The young fruit is tight and tangy—a mix of raspberry and black cherry. Forward, bright and lightly spicy, it's nicely focused effort with some high acid snap to the finish.
This is the first Torrontés from Pascual Toso that we've rated, and if it's any indication of what's going on there, then we say stick to the reds. This is a borderline dud, with chunky, hollow flavors and a mealy finish. Not a total mess but not a good, vivacious Argentine Torrontes by any stretch.
This is the first ultraluxury release from this label by entrepreneur Roger Bower and winemaker Adam Henkel, and the blend of 30% Syrah, 30% Malbec, 30% Petit Verdot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunner. Dark as night and extremely viscous in the glass, this shows deep blueberry, uncrushed peppercorns and touches of smoked meat on the nose. Thick and lush flavors of blueberry, smoked coffee bean and roasted meat jump onto the palate with glee. This attention-grabber will last for years, but it is very accessible out of the gates.
This is the first varietal Grenache from Bunnell Family, with grapes from Boushey and Olsen vineyards. It's rare enough to find Washington Grenache, as the grape was essentially wiped out in the mid-1990s. All neutral oak, so what comes out are the lovely, spicy, grape and berry flavors of Grenache, with snappy acids and early hints of Provençal herbs and toast.
This is the first varietal Xarello we've seen from Sumarroca and doesn't have us begging for more. The nose is neutral except for some petrol, while the palate is citric and tastes like you might expect: like orange juice. Tart and puckery on the finish. A novelty not worth your time.
This is the first vintage at this Fleurie property by new owner Alexandra de Vazeilles. It is rich, full of red fruits with considerable acidity. Hints of the 12 months wood aging show in the spice and smoothness at the end. The wine is ready to drink.
This is the first vintage for this blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Sangiovese. Ripe, lush and complex, it offers flavors of plum and cassis, with an appealing texture and moderately gripping tannins. There's life and snap to the finish, and though it's already delicious just two years after the vintage, another year or two of bottle age should see it continue to improve.
This is the first vintage for this wine, a 50-50 blend of Cabernet and Shiraz matured in French and American oak hogsheads for a year. Vanilla notes frame mixed-berry flavors, then pick up savory hints of beef and espresso on the softly dusty finish. Drink now through 2020.
This is the first vintage for this wine, made by Syncline's James Mantone. A delectable blend of 48% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache and 24% Syrah, aged in 100% neutral oak barrels, this is a sappy, concentrated, mouth-pleasing blast of plum, cherry and spice. As it rolls across the palate, the distinct impression is of chocolate-covered cherries.
This is the first vintage for Upright—100% Klipsun Vineyard and 100% varietal Merlot. Thick and syrupy, it's a full throttle wine, with deep flavors of berry, cherry and cassis. Red licorice lightly streaks through the back end, and the wine makes a smooth landing on a strip of Bourbon barrel notes.
This is the first vintage made by the vineyard owners in 25 years, a welcome return for one of the founding families of Oregon viticulture. Strawberries and raspberries, tart and spicy, anchor an elegant and interesting young wine. The finish continues clean and well-defined. Don't look for a blockbuster style; rather it's more delicate and refined.
This is the first vintage made in the brand-new winery that was finished just in time for crush in 2007. It captures the Pepper Bridge vineyard character perfectly—pretty strawberry fruit, dappled with fresh herbs and white pepper. The aromas are pretty and clean, and the wine does not over-reach.
This is the first vintage of a wine that used to be called Laville Haut-Brion. It is ripe and opulent with exotic fruits and generosity, very open, very rich. Pineapple, yellow fruits and toast are all present.
This is the first vintage of the winery's flagship wine to receive a vineyard designation. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (61%), Merlot (24%), Merlot and Petit Verdot, it offers brooding aromas of dried herbs and tobacco along with coffee and barrel spice. The style is reserved but it still brings a lot of richness along with lively acidity, exceptional balance, well-integrated tannins and a lengthy finish.
This is the first vintage of this 100% varietal, vineyard-designate for the producer, a mountaintop site 1,900 feet high. Red, rocky volcanic soils contribute a dusty concentration to the wine that shows a graceful grip of cranberry, cherry and currant wrapped in buoyant acidity. A wisp of smoke appears at the end.
This is the first vintage of this blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc, named after the 16th-century abbess Rylint Formentini. Peppery in character, with rich, complex fruit, it has citric flavors, along with a sense of structure and acidity.
This is the first vintage of this designated wine, grown on a high-elevation vineyard called William Wesley, near Annapolis. Cherry, raspberry and a touch of smoke create synergy around a medium-bodied core of soft, velvety texture and a crisp seasoning of white pepper.
This is the first vintage of this new purchase by Sylvie Cazes, a leading figure in the Bordeaux wine scene. A classed growth, it's richly fruity yet structured and firm, with dense tannins and layers of delicious black fruit. With its tannins still well at the fore, it will need to age further, so drink from 2022.
This is the first vintage of this property under the ownership of Château Ausone. The wine has a solid structure and firm tannins that offer rich fruit. It is balanced, full of tannins and with fine acidity as well as bold red fruits. Drink from 2023.
This is the first vintage of this wine that will be available in the United States and it makes a positive first impression. It's a delicious blend of spice, floral notes and strawberries that finishes with soft, caressing tannins.
This is the first vintage of this wine to be labeled as a Cabernet Sauvignon as opposed to a red wine. It brings aromas of fresh jalapeño, herb and cherry. The cherry and plum flavors are rich and layered, backed by tightly coiled tannins.
This is the first vintage of this wine to include estate fruit, along with fruit from Klipsun, Bacchus and Red Willow. A complex medley of herb and spice aromas accented by purple flowers is followed by bold yet still refined dark-fruit flavors that linger on the finish. It has the tannin to go the distance. Best after 2020.
This is the first vintage under its new owner, the American Stephen Adams. It's relatively soft, with black currant fruits, given a delicious lift by some tight tannins. The acidity gives freshness, a zap to the dry, firm finish.
This is the first Viognier produced by the winery. The wine was aged in neutral oak, but nonetheless there's a solid hit of vanilla cream and butterscotch on the palate. The underlying flavors are solidly Viognier, suggesting tropical fruits, peaches and pears.
This is the first white bottling from a new project by John Wagner, co-owner of John Sebastiano and Sierra Madre vineyards, and winemaker Paul Lato. Flint, dried limes, chives and a touch of smoked chicken show on the fresh nose. Light and clean on the sip, it's distinctive with flavors of buttered lemon slices, smoke and sweet onions.
This is the first wine from this new winery. Clean, light berry fruit is the whole show, and it's a forward, fruity Zin with friendly, simple flavors.
This is the first wine made from Oregon grapes by this southern California winery. But one can't help but wonder if shipping fruit all the way down the coast might bang it up a bit. For whatever reason, this wine tastes fractured, metallic and chalky. There is a core of black cherry, but it seems surrounded by gun-metal flavors, which stick to the palate and abruptly shut down the finish.
This is the first wine to be blended each year, though it is not labeled a reserve. The new vintage has amazing depth, running down through a litany of red and black fruits, into veins of earth and tannin and graphite, and finishing with densely textured barrel notes of toast, coffee and bitter chocolate. Beautifully proportioned, deep and cellarworthy.
This is the first, and least expensive, of the winery's 2010 Cabs. For $20, you get a dry, smooth, opulent wine, filled with classic black currant, tea and oak flavors.
This is the flagship Chardonnay from Thomas Fogarty Winery, a one-barrel lot that comes from a third-acre vineyard. And yet, from the winery's excellent 2011 line-up, it brings the least to the table. A zesty, grassy lemon-lime soda nose lands on the palate with Key lime and very little complication, making it pleasurable, but fairly breezy for the headiest of the Fogarty lot. Pair with halibut or seared scallops.
This is the flagship wine from the mini-empire (now comprising five properties) that is controlled by Comte Stephan von Niepperg. He has made a modern, wood dominated wine, with rich, concentrated black fruits. It is powerful, perhaps too powerful, lacking a sense of the usual grace of this estate, although the ripeness of the wine does compensate.
This is the fourth 90-point score this bottling has earned in as many years, meaning the wine has hit a very nice stride. Made with no oak, it offers a crisp, fruity freshness, with flavors of limes, tangerines, peaches, pears and vanilla.
This is the freshest apple and citrus-driven wine. It has great fruitiness allied to acidity and a soft, creamy structure. Drink in 2014.
This is the freshest of the sweet wine produced by Henri Ramonteau at Cauhapé. It is a lively, fruity wine, full of refreshing acidity as well as pineapple, apricot and honey flavors. The end shows a touch of spice. Drink now.
This is the Gainey family's annual statement on how Bordeaux varieties can excel in the Santa Ynez Valley, and this blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot is a marvelous argument. Aromas of pepper, pencil shavings, oregano, dill, elderberries, black currant and dried blueberries lead into an expertly integrated palate where black fruit is nuanced by cedar, dried oregano, crushed gravel and peppery spice.
This is the granddaddy in the Emilio Moro portfolio, but the wine is so ripe and oaky it's syrupy-smelling. Maximum ripeness means it's a bit Port-like on the palate, with baked black-fruit flavors that finish soft and jammy. This brims with power, extraction and flavor but it's grasping for structure. Drink through 2019.
This is the Hearst family's run at a luxury-level Chardonnay, and it's a promising start, with creamy aromas of honeysuckle, light butter and citrus rinds. There's a touch of vanilla bean on the palate, which also shows apple ice cream, flashes of cinnamon and a firmly wound texture. It's delicate, clean, light and quaffable.
This is the high-elevation Kimmeridgian soil interpretation of Viognier at the Lagrézette estate from enologist Claude Boudamani with consultant Michel Rolland. Despite its high alcohol, it is restrained and serious with structured fruits and a sense of balanced power. The fruits, apricots and white peach sing harmoniously with the pepper and spice from wood aging. Drink from 2017.
This is the highlight of an excellent lineup from Stemilt Creek. It brings the same smooth, round fruit forward flavors as the other wines, but adds in more details with citrus, olive and green tea flavors streaking through. The finish gets downright sexy, with a strong wash of chocolate and caramel. It's made for immediate enjoyment rather than cellaring.
This is the home estate of Madiran superstar Alain Brumont. The wine is big, bold, rich and packed with both fruit and tannins. It has great structure and a dense dusty tannic character that promises great aging. This is a major wine that needs time. Drink it starting from 2022.
This is the ideal anti-Chardonnay white wine. There's no oak at all to interfere with the lemon, lime and mineral flavors, and the acidity is brisk and mouthwatering. A dry, crisply brilliant wine to drink now with everything from sushi to tuna tartare.
This is the inaugural release for Browne Family Chardonnay. Crisp and leesy, it has a smooth, creamy midpalate, with a buttered toast highlight. Refreshing acidity and excellent length keep it fresh and lively.
This is the inaugural release from Elizabeth Bourcier, assistant vigneronne at Cayuse Vineyards. A unique blend of Grenache (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon, it clearly comes from The Rocks, with the aromas of black olive, peat, fire pit, raspberry and herbs popping. The smoked meat and savory flavors show elegance, depth, detail and restraint, with a finish that sails. It's a subtle, sublime wine that makes a statement.
This is the inaugural release from the winery's estate site, which sits next to famed Boushey Vineyard. A pale salmon color, it's a field blend of Mourvèdre and Grenache, redolent with aromas and flavors of strawberry, orange peel and spice, along with mouthwatering acidity that ties it all together. It's thoroughly delightful.
This is the inaugural release from this Oregon-based winery, with the fruit coming from Loess and Seven Hills vineyards. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (54%), Merlot (38%) and Petit Verdot, it offers laromas of pencil box, high-toned flowers, bittersweet chocolate, herbs and barrel spices. The flavors show depth and intensity as well as exquisite balance and length.
This is the inaugural release from this project that pairs Chateau Ste. Michelle with Rhône stars Michel Gassier and Philippe Cambie. Coming from a variety of vineyards across the Columbia Valley, it offers aromas of black cherry, smoke, incense and cocoa. The flavors are plush in feel with a finish that lingers—an impressive first offering.
This is the inaugural release from this winery that focuses on the expression of Cabernet in a different site each year. It's dazzling, rich with blackberry, black currant, herb, dark chocolate and barrel spices. The full-bodied flavors are candy-bar sweet with some chewy tannic heft that bodes well for its potential in the cellar.
This is the inaugural release from this winery, which dedicates itself to the production of Grenache. A blend of fruit from Alder Ridge and Upland vineyards, it brings aromas of red plum, herb and spice that are followed by elegant, mouthwatering red-fruit flavors. It shows the variety's more delicate side.
This is the inaugural release from this winery. It opens with aromas of raspberries, herbs and cherries, showing just a touch of volatility. The fruit and barrel flavors are ripe and generous, lingering on the finish.
This is the inaugural release from this winery. With Grenache (71%) and Syrah (23%) leading the way, it shows aromas of vanilla bean, herb and ripe red and blue fruit. The palate is full bodied and no holds barred, showing a mixture of fruit and barrel along with the ripeness of the region and vintage. The wood pokes through at times.
This is the inaugural release of a tiny new project from winemaker James MacPhail and his wife, Kerry Forbes-MacPhail. Inspired by wines that “dance on the tongue,” it's a worthy debut, showcasing earthy, stemmy roses, herb, tar and tea, layered across a soft, juicy palate of baked orange marmalade and cardamom.
This is the inaugural release of this Clifton Hill and Clifton Bluff vineyards wine. Aromas of plum, dark berries, pencil lead and chocolate precede soft, plump fruit flavors. It goes down far too easy.
This is the inaugural release of this wine, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec. It brings aromas of espresso, toast, bittersweet chocolate, vanilla and dark berries. The fruit and barrel flavors are soft and sumptuous, playing off each other nicely through the finish.
This is the inaugural release of this wine, which is composed of fruit from Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills vineyards. It's aromatically generous, with appealing notes of sage, dried herb, cassis, dark chocolate, spice, pencil lead and dark fruit. The palate delivers a mouthful of dark-fruit flavors and tannins that are combined to a fine sheen. It shows a beautiful sense of balance capped off by a persistent finish. It drinks well now but is made with the future in mind.
This is the inaugural release of this wine. It shows aromas of dried herbs, plums and currants that lead to a full-bodied and full-flavored palate. It's a mouthful of juicy fruit flavors that delights the senses, with the feel simply dazzling.
This is the inaugural vintage for this producer, a husband-and-wife team in partnership with winemaker Maayan Koschitzky, who also works with Philippe Melka. The vineyard-designate is lush and powerful, a full-bodied, tannic representative of an amazing growing year. Mint, black olive, blackberry and cigar highlight the sensual texture, enriched in dark chocolate.
This is the inaugural vintage of a new estate wine, from a 30-acre property on Eastside Road across the Russian River from the winery. Pear compote, anise and lemon candy wrap around voluptuous layers marked by green apple and orange peel, offering richness and weight in hearty measure.
This is the inaugural vintage of what is intended to be the flagship wine in the Milbrandt portfolio. It has rather light fruit flavors of mixed red berries and currants, a little spice and some toasty accents from barrel aging. Decanting may help to flesh it out.
This is the kind of Brunello you want on a cold winter night by the fireplace. The wine delivers dark concentration with oak spice and tobacco followed by a long succession of bright berry nuances. The tannins are tight and firm and the acidity renders a cool, sharp feel on the close.
This is the kind of Cabernet Sonoma County produces so effortlessly. It's full-bodied, dry and smooth, with a touch of smoky oak. The cherry and blackberry fruit is ripe and luscious. An easy wine to drink now.
This is the kind of Cabernet that's soft and accessible enough to drink now. It's rich in blackberry, cherry and spice flavors, with a sweet edge of charred wood. Saved from mere simplicity by a fine, firm tannic structure.
This is the kind of Cabernet that California can accomplish with one hand tied behind its back. Softly tannic and smooth, it's incredibly rich and sweet in blackberry and cherry jam, milk chocolate and toasty oak flavors for drinking now at a good price.
This is the kind of California-appellation Chardonnay that allows consumers to drink their favorite white wine at an everyday price. It's just fine, with pineapple, peach and orange flavors, kissed with buttered toast and cream.
This is the kind of California Pinot Noir Burgundophiles love to hate. It's so full-bodied and fruity, so forward in currant, chocolate and licorice flavors, that it seems to have nowhere to go — a sin in Burgundy. And yet there's no denying its immediate deliciousness. It fools the palate, now honey sweet, now bone dry, but always rich and spicy.
This is the kind of easy Sangiovese that would pair with pasta, gnocchi or pork chops. The wine shows natural freshness and pretty berry nuances. Drei Donà is a landmark estate for the entire Emilia-Romagna region.
This is the kind of elegant wine one expects from Chateau Lafayette, with its flirtation of mint, chocolate and soft pepper on the nose, and its integrated berry and spice flavors on the palate. Smooth but sturdy tannins and a long finish seal the deal.
This is the kind of food-friendly wine to pair with grilled shrimp kebabs or fish tacos. It presents clean aromas of citrus, pear and stone fruit, backed by zesty acids on the finish.
This is the kind of fun, flirty white that won't break the bank or your brain—it's simple and sippable. The nose offers pineapple, lemon and a touch of toast, while the fruit flavors are bright and appealing. Could use a touch of acidity but overall, the wine is balanced. A good everyday choice.
This is the kind of Merlot people will love. It's smooth, soft and silky, with rich, sweet flavors of raspberries and cherries. There's even a candied note of chocolate-covered mint.
This is the kind of Pinot Noir that's made the variety so popular. While it's not an ager, it gives you everything that Pinot has to offer—­vibrant acidity, a smooth, silky texture and rich flavors of raspberries, cherries and brown sugar, leading to a dry, spicy finish.
This is the kind of Rosso di Montalcino you could pair with seasoned pork or chicken curry. It has the heft and substance to stand up to those spicy foods and offers loads of fresh fruit intensity on the close.
This is the kind of wine Franciscan produces so well and reliably. As far as Merlots go, it shows the soft approachability and supple tannins you expect. Flavorwise, it's appealing in ripe red cherries, sweet red licorice and smoky oak. A very nice restaurant wine, and easy to find, with more than 20,000 cases produced.
This is the kind of wine only severe lot selection can achieve. The flavors are deep and impressive, ranging from cassis to chocolate. Oak provides smoke and spice. It has that brilliant, velvety texture you expect from wines of this caliber, but, like so many such bottlings, it lacks the acidity to provide backbone.
This is the kind of wine someone serves at a big party, maybe in paper cups, along with the canapes, and you're delighted because it's actually pretty good. It's dry, soft and chocolaty, with a rich undertow of blackberries and currants.
This is the kind of wine that has made Moscato so popular. It's sweet in flavors of white sugar, honey, tangerines, lemon meringue pie and vanilla bean. Its crisp acidity is bright, and its alcohol is low. Pair it with tangy food.
This is the kind of wine that might leave you speechless, it's so good, so complex and so well made. The tenth vintage from this marquee vineyard site, it shows dark-golden color and pungent toasted-oak aromas, with a touch of petrol. Smooth and nearly full bodied, it celebrates all notions of pear, apple and almond atop lifted acidity and a lengthy finish.
This is the kind of wine that negociant Don Sebastiani & Sons produces so well. For an everyday price, you get a pretty nice Cabernet, dry and spicy, with a good punch of berry fruit.
This is the kind of wine that tastes like no effort was spared in its production. It's impeccably made, with clean, ripe fruit, crisp acidity and a nice touch of oak. The palate is full of California-ripe Meyer lemons and peaches with a touch of New Zealand gooseberry.
This is the kind of wine that will be wildly popular as a cocktail sipper. It has the fruit, spice and oaky vanilla to appeal to almost all palates, yet is dry and crisp in acidity, leaving behind a clean, fruity finish.
This is the kind of wine the late, great André Tchelistcheff described as an iron fist in a velvet glove. The glove is the lush, forward blackberry, currant and cocoa flavors, the smooth texture and the seductively sweet new oak. The fist is the sheer power. This is an important addition to the pantheon of Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, and one that needs some time in the cellar.
This is the kind of wine you'll find sold at pizzerias, taco joints and Chinese restaurants everywhere. It's soft, simple and fruity, with cherry and cola flavors.
This is the kind of Zinfandel sometimes describe as claret-like, which is a great compliment. It's dry, smoothly tannic and complex, with berry, currant, dark chocolate, herb, spice, mineral and sandalwood flavors. Feels really fine all the way through, a wine to savor as it changes in the glass. Great value for the price.
This is the last vintage from this site from this producer: a sad farewell that doesn't hold back on ripeness or full-figured body. Lush and soft on the palate, it has a strong sense of self, etched in black cherry, chocolate mint and firm tannin. Sock it away and best enjoy beginning in 2024.
This is the last vintage of a joint venture between J M da Fonseca and Cristiano van Zeller (the 2005 is a solo production by J M da Fonseca). It's a dry, dark, structured wine, with some minerality, full of ripe black plums and concentrated tannins.
This is the last Wild Sky to be crafted by now-departed winemaker Gordy Hill. It's a full-on Bordeaux blend, 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the other four grapes filling in the rest. Substantial and mouth-filling, it displays a mix of black fruits, black olive, and Italian herbs. The mouthfeel is satisfying and the finish edged with dark chocolate.
This is the latest in a series of special releases under the Six Grapes label. It comes from Graham's south-facing vineyards on the Douro north bank. The wine is of vintage Port quality—rich, but with some fine tannins. The jammy red fruits are lifted by acidity and by the fine perfumed character. Drink the wine now.
This is the latest Mondavi partnership -- are you keeping track? -- this time, with Australia's Rosemount Estate. It is a young, jammy wine, like an Aussie Shiraz, with uncomplicated but ripe and tasty berry flavors and rich, thick tannins. Easy drinking in a big, full-bodied wine.
This is the latest release of Portugal's most iconic wine. It's made only in selected years (the last vintage was 2000) from Ferreira's Quinta da Leda in the Douro Superior. This new vintage is superb. It's a richly tarry wine laden with dark plum fruits and tannins that are just beginning to mature. It's a ripe and luscious, demanding attention, yet will still age for many years. Drink now, or hold until 2020.
This is the latest release of what has long been regarded as Portugal's iconic wine. And it is magnificent. The last vintage was the 2004 and the wait has now shown to be worthwhile. With its immense span and breadth of flavors and rich structure it is a superb manifestation of the great vineyards of the Douro Superior. Big bold fruits and acidity are matched by the tannins and concentration. Hold this for many years or at least wait until 2022.
This is the latest vintage from the always impressive long-running joint venture between the Symington family in Portugal and Bordeaux wine consultant Bruno Prats. The wine is elegant and structured with nothing to excess. It has delicious black-currant fruit as well as a core of firm tannins. It is a wine for aging: ripe while so poised. Drink from 2020.
This is the latest vintage of the second wine produced by the joint venture between the Symington Family and Bruno Prats from Bordeaux. While the wine has plenty of wood, it also has the potential of ripe blackberry fruits. It is rich, full of ripe tannins and toast from the wood. Nutmeg and cinnamon add interest. Drink from 2019.
This is the latest wine from the same producer as the popular Whispering Angel rosé. It has a wonderful herbal character that lifts the bright red-currant fruit. Acidity and fruit are allied with the mineral texture to create a wine that will be just right for food.
This is the least costly of Baldacci's '06 Cabs, and is quite close in quality to the more expensive bottlings. It's classic Napa, showing beautiful tannins framing ripe, juicy flavors of blackberries, black currants, plums and smoky cedar. Combines power with elegance, and should develop over the next six years.
This is the least expensive McCrea Syrah, compiled from the same excellent sources as the higher end wines. It's a solid effort, with black fruits threaded with cedar, smoke, licorice and coffee liqueur. It was aged 32 months in 2–6 year old French oak.
This is the least expensive of the winery's four new 2010 Syrahs, and it's the most approachable. With fine, supple tannins and a dry finish, it shows flavors of rich blackberry jam, black currant, dark chocolate, anise and pepper, which are enhanced with sweet oak. Only 122 cases were produced, but it's worth a search.
This is the least successful Judd's Hill Cabernet in recent memory. The current '04 bottling is lean, with cherry tea and mint flavors. A disappointment.
This is the Left Bank companion to the winery's La Soeur blend. Here the Cabernet Sauvignon is dominant, with Merlot and a splash of Petit Verdot making up the last third. Firm, dark and tight upon opening, it sends up scents of smoke and charcoal, forming a wreath around dense fruit flavors of blueberry and cassis. A young wine, with perhaps a decade or more of life ahead of it.
This is the lighter of the two rosés from Saint-André de Figuière. It brings out crisp fruit, lively spice and red berry, with a great streak of clean, mouthwatering acidity.
This is the lighter of two sweet wines from Ancienne Cure, but this is still pretty intense. It has great sweet marmalade and orange zest flavors, as much sweet as botrytized. Soft, round and opulent.
This is the lightest in a series of wines featuring the Avesso grape. Herbal, crisp and with plenty of acidity, it's also fruity and ready to drink.
This is the lightest of the Bründlmayer Grüners and refreshing and crisp it is, too. It has green herb freshness and a tense, citrus aftertaste. Pure green fruits dominate. Screwcap.
This is the lightest of the Grüners from Proidl, offering a refreshing burst of crisp acidity along with the freshest spice. There is a fine tang of lemon, to keep the whole wine as bright as possible.
This is the lightest of the Soutiran Champagnes, softly textured, attractively ripe and delicious as an apéritif. It is fruity, with fresh pear and spiced apple flavors, finishing with sweet acidity.
This is the lightest wine in the range from Berne. It's all about lively red fruits, fresh acidity and immediate drinkability. And it's ready to drink.
This is the liquid version of buttered toast. It's that oaky. In the nose there's almost no fruit at all, but in the mouth, once you cut through the layers of wood and butter, there's some melon, pear and vanilla. But wood overrides that, too. In the finish it's all oak-driven spice and resin. If this all sounds like a lumberjack's special, it is
This is the little brother of Brumont's estate wines such as Montus and Bouscassé. It is all fruit, the 80% Tannat tamed easily, leaving a modicum of tannins to support the juicy black fruit. It is a ripe wine that is very ready to drink.
This is the main nonvintage wine from this southern Champagne Aube-based producer. It's a cuvée based around the producer's specialty of Pinot Noir. With fresh acidity over rich white fruits, apples and pears, it is balanced, fragrant and ready to drink.
This is the medium-dry Riesling from this estate vineyard, a notch lower in alcohol than the Dry bottling, and overall a bit rounder. It carries the same excellent texture, length and mix of ripe fruits, with pears and nectarines taking center stage.
This is the midlevel entry in Yalumba's Shiraz-Viognier range, slotting in above the Y Series but below the Hand Picked. It's a medium-bodied, slightly creamy-textured wine, with prominent green olive and peppercorn nuances to its plummy flavors. It fades a little on the finish, so drink now–2013.
This is the midrange wine in Danie de Wet's clutch ofChardonnays, proof that the hot climate of Robertson is no bar to making fine white wines. With its steely character, this is the most French wine, almost Chablis in style, from this producer. Spices, green plums, kiwifruit are all there, as is fresh, crisp acidity.
This is the most accessible of Stemmler's trio of new 2010 Pinots. It offers rich raspberry, cherry and sandalwood flavors, and shows a fine balance of all its parts. Elegant enough to drink at the best restaurants, or just to uplift an ordinary hamburger on a summer evening.
This is the most accessible, most interesting and most compelling of Sbragia's new Cabernets. It's extraordinarily powerful in the potent, sweetly refined tannins and ripe flavors of blackberries and cassis, leading to a long, rich finish. You can drink it now, but it will age effortlessly for a good 8–10 years.
This is the most affordable Pinot from Archery Summit, a blend of multiple clones and vineyards, and it's a gem. Full and fruity from the moment you pull the cork, it hits you with flavors of ripe strawberry, blackberry and black cherry, a big mouthful of lush fruit flavor. The finish brings on hints of truffle, licorice and dark chocolate.
This is the most attractive and successful of the winery's three releases of 2007 Pinot Noir. It's dry and crisp in acidity and very rich, with oak-inspired waves of cherries, cola, mushu plum sauce and smoky sandalwood. Drink this elegant wine in the next year or two.
This is the most available of all the new releases from this important new winery and vineyard on Red Mountain. It sets up with black cherry, plum and blackberry fruits, annotated with clove and coffee. Perfectly balanced and kept at a moderate 13.7% alcohol, this Cabernet-dominated Bordeaux blend is graceful and refined, built for food and cellarworthy for up to a decade.
This is the most balanced of the winery's many 2011 Zins. It's also half the price of the vineyard designates. With raspberry, cherry and cola flavors set in a flurry of spices, it doesn't have the massive overripeness of the others. But that's exactly why it's a more appealing and food-friendly wine.
This is the most broadly appealing Chardonnay of Lynmar's wonderful 2011 offering. It makes all the right moves, with fine acidity and a hint of minerals giving structure to the tropical fruit, buttered toast and spice flavors. It's the kind of wine that makes Chard lovers smile. Best of all, it costs considerably less than  the winery's other Chards and is nearly as good.
This is the most complete of the four Prince Hill clonal selection bottlings. It has flavors of cherry, Dr. Pepper, cherry candy and a hint of incense. It's a pleasant, easy-drinking wine best consumed while still young.
This is the most complex and detailed of the current single-vineyard Pinots from Rex Hill. English Breakfast tea, cherry liqueur, moist loam, dried leaf and highlights of cinnamon apple pie all contribute to a feminine, elegant, well-crafted wine.
This is the most concentrated of the current lineup of Phelps Creek Pinots, and carries a distinctly earthy note of compost in the nose, along with leaf and cherry and herb. It has some weight and authority on the palate, with a mix of cherry tomato and fresh herb dominating.
This is the most dynamic 2011 entry in Matthias Pippig's Loner series, starting with aromas of lemon juice, lime sorbet, wet chalk, white pepper and crushed herbs. The tight, mineral-driven flavors dance across diced peaches and baked apples, with lime spritzer and baking soda thrown on top.
This is the most expensive newly released Cherryblock ever, $20 more than the 2007. It's quite a plush wine, softly velvety and rich in cherry and oak flavors. Already throwing considerable sediment, it's on the glidepath to a long, useful life.
This is the most expensive of Coelho's three Pinot Gris offerings and also the least ripe. Bone-dry, sour and thin, it seems to improve when paired with fresh oysters.
This is the most expensive of the winery's new Cabs. It's also the fruitiest and most in need of time in the cellar. Right now, it's a candied blast of blackberries and cherries. The tannins are sweet and chunky, and the oak isn't integrated with everything else. It's awkward. But it should develop for a good 6–8 years, maybe even longer. The score reflects its potential.
This is the most expensive Pinot Noir Foxen has ever made, and guess what? It's also the winery's best. It bears rich flavors, offering tiers of smoky cherries, red currants, licorice candies, vanilla, sandalwood and spices. What's harder to describe is the sheer beauty of the texture and balance. Containing the explosive richness of a wine like this is a challenge, but winemaker Bill Wathan has managed to bring elegance to its power. The wine is high in alcohol, and it's not advisable to age it beyond 3 or 4 years, but it is incredibly delicious.
This is the most expensive Pinot Noir from Gundlach Bundschu in many years, maybe ever, but it's also easily their best. It's absolutely delicious in cherries, pomegranates and spices, with a wonderful earthiness that grounds it. So silky and complex, so rewarding to drink now. Great to see this veteran winery coming out with a wine this fine.
This is the most extravagant version of three wines in a range in which grower Didier Pelvillain uses the figure seven for its mystic qualities. Here, the wine is ripe, brimming with fresh black fruits and acidity. The structure is firm in the background, allowing the wine to age. Drink from 2019.
This is the most impressive Chante-Alouette I can recall, boasting layers of honeyed pineapple fruit, the barest hint of fresh, just-golden toastiness and notes of gingered apricot. It's full bodied and lush on the palate, ending long and mouthwatering. It should drink well into 2015, but expect it to close up only to re-emerge between 2020 and 2030.
This is the most intractable of the winery's 2008 Pinot Noirs, holding back in the glass and showing plenty of grip and tannin. Tight and compact, with a distinctive black pepper scent, this wine needs more bottle age. With time, the score could certainly improve.
This is the most recent release of this amazing wine. Pure Tannat. Aged for 40 months in new wood, it took its time to become so beautifully drinkable. It is, of course, dense with typical dusty Tannat tannins and with mature secondary flavors of dried fruit, spices and intense acidity. It is ready to drink.
This is the most remniscent of Chablis among Testarossa's new Chardonnays. It's a minerally, chalky wine, bone dry and with lots of acidity, which makes it racy and clean. But it also has a solid core of ripe oranges and limes. It's fine to drink now, and could even develop mushroomy bottle complexity over the next six years.
This is the most substantial of the winery's 2012 Pinots, with black cherry and cola flavors dominant. There's a hint of gun metal and a lick of chocolate wrapping into a short, rather thin finish.
This is the most widely distributed, highest-production Pinot Noir from Archery Summit. It's forward and fruity, with generous, ripe strawberry and cherry fruit. There is a steely sheen to the finishing flavors, like licking a knife blade, and the tannins pack enough muscle to further improve the wine through 2018–2020.
This is the oldest of the Milbrandt vineyards, planted in 1997. Though a bit riper than the Evergreen vineyard bottling, this Chardonnay feels lighter, with less density. It's balanced and complete, and the flavors of green apple and Asian pear offer a fine rendition of well-ripened Washington fruit.
This is the only blend in Washington State where these two varieties play near-equal parts. Coming from a mixture of McKinley Springs and Alder Ridge vineyards, it offers aromas of brambly raspberries and herbs that lead to strikingly pure flavors and a texture that weakens the knees. An extended finish caps it off.
This is the only bottling of this variety I am aware of in the state. The aromas are intriguing: all high toned, with notes of herb, barrel spice and ripe blackberry. The flavors are full bore, holding nothing back. The tannins bring a slight sense of astringency. There's promise.
This is the only Cayuse Syrah that is co-fermented (with 8% Viognier), which adds nuances of white flower and floral, though the citrus rind scents override them. In the nose it's hugely expressive, though still quite tight and compact in the mouth; it must be decanted. It's a three ring circus of a wine, with things moving and shaking in all directions. Mineral, berry, mountain complexity, nuanced herb and earth and citrus, all in proportion, and all flowing in the mouth.
This is the only Long Island version of this white grape variety from northeastern Italy, but perhaps there should be more. Fermented in a mix of stainless steel and used wood, there's a touch of custardy richness and some dried-spice notes, but the emphasis is on clean, crisp melon, pineapple and citrus fruit. It's medium-bodied, with an appealing focus to the lingering finish that would make it an attractive pairing to many of the region's seafoods.
This is the palest of rosés, almost white in color. Ripe red fruits, from 80-year old vines, show through on the palate, with tight acidity and a crisp aftertaste. Balanced and rich, this has a shot of spice to add interest and put the wine firmly in the food rosé category.
This is the perfect wine for washing down pasta salad and easy dishes. Peach, citrus and pink grapefruit are delivered in measured doses and the wine is light and lean in the mouth with a brilliant sparkle of acidity on the close.
This is the perfect wine to pair with seafood salad or grilled Ahi tuna steaks. This bright effort shows creamy smoothness, with rich highlights of melon, exotic fruit and honeydew.
This is the personal project of Archery Summit winemaker Chris Mazepink. It's named for the bees that buzz around the vines. Rich gold in hue, it marries the flavors of ripe apples to bee pollen and lemon curd. The flavors fold into a well-developed finish, bringing up highlights of citrus peel.
This is the personal project of Robert Mondavi's longtime winemaker, Genevieve Janssens, and her husband, Luc. Production is only 250 cases. The blend is of the two Cabs, Sauvignon and Franc. The quality of the tannins is perfect, and so is the effortless way the wine has absorbed 100% new French oak without the wood sticking out. My only criticism, and it's a big one, is excessive ripeness that makes it Port-like. The alcohol is 15.5%.
This is the pinnacle of achievement from an outstanding dessert wine producer. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc, it is an explosion of hugely rich, hugely sweet fruit, with brown sugar, raisins and tight acidity. This is an astonishingly rich wine, likely to age for at least 10 years.
This is the priciest Cab Ca' Momi has released in years, but it's also the best. It's soft, complex and delicious in black currants, chocolate and oak, with wonderfully smooth tannins, and just enough acidity for balance. It's clearly decadent for drinking now through 2020. Beyond that, all bets are off.
This is the priciest of Tablas Creek's three new white-Rhône-style releases. A blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul Blanc, it's rich, dense and oaky. It shows ripe, concentrated orange, mango and apricot flavors, enhanced by oaky notes, with fleshy weight and density. Not an ager, but a distinctive and enjoyable wine.
This is the producer's annual unoaked version of the variety, from its own estate, the grapes fermented entirely in stainless steel. Kept in tank until bottling, it's a fresh taste of spring, also showing green olive, quince and tropical mango, with plenty of juicy acidity.
This is the producer's first barrel-aged Chardonnay, made from a blend of two vineyards and two clones, including one from their own estate on Westside Road. Sour and sweet alternatively, it finds a steely path to balance and soft layers of apple, Asian pear and a touch of ginger-topped butterscotch.
This is the producer's first release from this site. It succeeds wildly with its juicy, tart flavors of cranberry and red cherry that become fleshy and concentrated on the palate. Complex and delicious, it finishes with a thickness of toast and black tea.
This is the producer's first release of this wine. Fruity aromas of plum and tart cranberry add to its overall sense of lightness and understatement.
This is the producer's first vintage from Hudson, one of the most sought-after sites in the appellation, and one not widely planted to the variety. Light and lush with a velvety ripeness, this special wine shines in pomegranate, earthy truffle and a turn of smoked meat. Robust, it maintains balance amidst its brawn.
This is the producer's first vintage from this vineyard—the grapes were previously sold. The site, which sits within Green Valley as well as the Sonoma Coast, is planted to the same clone as sister property Quail Hill, in coveted Goldridge soils. Soft, round and decadent, the wine is full bodied, with bursts of red fruit and crushed stone.
This is the producer's highest and most westerly vineyard site. It holds back from the start, still tightly wound and somewhat reduced on the nose. As it opens, ethereal layers of wild strawberry, green tea and lacings of herb and white pepper unveil to tremendous effect.
This is the producer's inaugural foray into the variety, sourced from the Oak Knoll area. The wine is inspired by the Loire Valley and its well-known Cabernet Franc. Coopered in French oak and stainless steel, it retains a subtle crispness and light body, the acidity supporting highlights of floral white fig, pear and honey.
This is the producer's inaugural offering of the variety, made in tiny amounts, but boy oh boy, it's good. Bright blue and black-berry succulence exude vibrancy and freshness on the palate complemented by savory hints of tar, black licorice and char. Velvety soft tannins allow the fruit to speak.
This is the producer's longstanding ode to historic field blends, from a site in the Napa Valley planted to handfuls of mysterious varieties. The result is intriguing and unique, evoking fresh dough, plum and blackberry cobbler, the texture thick, soft and spicy. A thread of white floral perfume courses throughout.
This is the producer's most popular wine in Portugal. A touch of oak aging adds spice to the easygoing tannin and red-berry fruit flavors. It's easy to drink and ready now.
This is the producer's nonvintage cuvée—a crisp, apple-flavored wine dominated by the softness of Pinot Meunier. It's fruity with an attractive and zesty acidity. A great apéritif-style Champagne.
This is the producer's prestige cuvée, a fine perfumed blend with a great balance between the ripe fruitiness, the balanced dosage and a crisp edge of pink-grapefruit flavors. This impressive vintage with its hints of toasty maturity is ready to drink.
This is the producer's proprietary Merlot-driven blend, the variety comprising 60% of the whole, with 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Like its other blends, it spent 21 months in French oak, 75% of it new. Sanguine in currant and plum, its thick structure holds richer notes of chocolate and coconut. Drink now through 2023.
This is the product of two childhood friends, both of whom grew up in the wine business in Napa Valley. Taken, if this wine is any indication, aims to offer great Napa Valley wine at affordable prices. This Cabernet-Merlot blend is smooth in juicy red and blue fruit and completely silky tannins, completely satisfying for all kinds of scenarios.
This is the prototype for an over-the-top, roasted, charred Tempranillo. The nose smells directly of burnt coffee, charcoal and grilled beef. It's super-chunky on the tongue, with dominating roasted black fruit flavors. It has its merits but is still too blackened for our liking.
This is the rare Côtes du Rhône that needs cellaring, but it is sourced from a patch of 50-year-old vines near Sorgues. Ground cinnamon and clove, fine leather and just enough cherry fruit mingle to create a compelling, medium-bodied wine framed by fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017–2022, possibly beyond.
This is the rare Riesling that has seen some oak influence. Yet it's not obtrusive at all, and just adds hints of honey, vanilla and toast to the wine's already complex flavors, encompassing lilac blossoms, fresh greens, peach and tangerine. It's on the full-bodied side of the Riesling spectrum, with just a pinch of residual sugar and a pleasant cremainess on the midpalate.
This is the rarest of all finds: a high-quality Pinot Noir at an everyday price. It's medium bodied and crisp, with ample complexity that blends smoke, cedar, cola and black cherry notes. With its reasonably firm finish, it might be interesting to try in another year or two, although it's ready to drink now.
This is the real deal, as they say, a fine, intricate Pinot Noir. The vineyard is famous for producing complex wines, and the winemaker has vinified the grapes well, resulting in a dry, silky wine. Waves of raspberries and cherries are balanced with earthier notes of mushrooms and minerals. The wine should age well for a good eight years, but it's easy to enjoy now.
This is the real stuff, with pepper, blackberry, smoke and an earthy note. Drinks lush and complex. Sheer heaven, with impeccable precision and cohesion of blackberry liqueur, oak and lush tannins.
This is the reserve-level Pinot Gris, comprised of lots from five different vineyards. Juicy, succulent and quite tart fruit flavors emphasize fresh apples and pears, lightly dusted with cinnamon spice. The concentration and lingering finish prove it worthy of its reserve status.
This is the reserve of the Erath lineup and the winery's best effort—along with the Battle Creek bottling—in 2010. Pretty scents and flavors of raspberry and rose water mingle with the ripest cherry fruit in the lineup. Focused, balanced and elegant.
This is the reserve wine from Chocapalha, a powerful expression of mainly Douro grapes in the Lisbon region. It has dense tannins at this young stage, with layers of firm plums and a solid texture. For balance, refreshing acidity lightens up the whole edifice. It does need to age however, so drink from 2018.
This is the richest and most rewarding of the winery's 2012 range of Pinot Noirs. It's classically dry and silky, with brisk acidity and delicious raspberry jam and cherry pie flavors that have the earthiness of pomegranates and persimmons. It's fine to drink now and over the next six years.
This is the richest and most satisfying of the winery's four 2010 Pinot Noirs. It's not an ager, but the flavors of raspberry and cherry jam are forward and tasty, with a tart edge of spicy licorice. Drink it now for maximum freshness.
This is the richest of the winery's Pinots, and it shows a blast of pie-filling cherries, black raspberries, pomegranates and red plums, along with savory spice and vanilla oak flavors. It's a bit soft, but supported by finely ground, velvety tannins. Best now and through 2010.
This is the ripest of Ojai's current trio of '08 Chardonnays, with tropical fruit, apricot and pear flavors, but it also shows the winery's telltale acidity, dryness and minerality. Drink now.
This is the ripest wine in the Béatrice range. With generous red fruits and balanced acidity it has weight and richness alongside the crisp, tangy fruitiness. This is a textured wine with spice and pepper flavors to add complexity to the fruit. Drink the wine from late 2017.
This is the second label for Col Solare, the Ste. Michelle-Antinori collaboration on Red Mountain. Except for a splash of Syrah, it's a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and three other Bordeaux grapes, mostly sourced from the recently planted estate vineyard on Red Mountain. Mixed black-fruit flavors come dusted with baking spice, plus notes of olive, cedar and coffee.
This is the second label for Col Solare, the Ste. Michelle/Antinori collaboration on Red Mountain. A fine bottle for the price, it shows the same elegance and supple texture as the frontline wine. Black cherry, blueberry, mocha and smoke swirl over and around the palate. Only in the finish does it seem to fade quickly, with a very slight suggestion of glue in the aftertaste.
This is the second label from this Gaillac estate. It is a fine mix of red fruits and spice—all fruitiness and with a strong shot of acidity. The wine is made to be drunk young; enjoy this summer.
This is the second label of Young Inglewood, a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot that spent 20 months in all-French oak, one quarter of it new. Meant to be approachable young, it is, while retaining a concentration of licorice, black currant and blackberry wrapped in dark chocolate. Firm tannins give it structure.
This is the second of Black Kite's 2009 Pinot Noirs to be released, following the Redwood's Edge last year. It's an impressive wine, dry, richly textured and crisp, showing complex cherry compote, chocolate-covered mint, spice and sandalwood flavors. It's clearly delicious, but gains extra charm from the smooth texture and elegance. Drink now-2015.
This is the second release showcasing this old-school clone. It works well as a stand-alone cuvée, with brawny and broad flavors of plum and black cherry. There's a whiff of compost and some savory notes also, but it's mainly the big-boned fruit that shines here.
This is the second release this year from Maison Louis Jadot's Oregon project—both wines are labeled Résonance, but this is the Willamette Valley cuvée, not the Résonance vineyard bottling. Some estate fruit is included, and it is a subtle and detailed wine, with pretty mulberry and pie-cherry fruit. Thirteen months in 20% new French oak adds light mocha highlights, and it is as smooth and refined as one might expect from master winemaker Jacques Lardière.
This is the second Syrah from Soos Creek, again sourced from three excellent vineyards: Boushey, Riverbend and Lewis. Other bottlings from any of these vineyards will sell for far more; this is a real value. The tang is all fruit, with good natural acidity, plenty of snap. Cranberry, pomegranate and some darker notes of smoke, licorice and coffee  threaded through. Excellent winemaking.
This is the second vintage in this series from former Ste. Michelle winemaker Joshua Maloney. The aromas are brooding, with notes of blue and black fruit while the flavors are ripe and full, showing intensity along with a firm lick of tannins that need some time to settle in. Best after 2020.
This is the second vintage of sparkling wine production for winemaker Blair Fox but the first he's controlled from start to finish, and the early results are exciting. Zesty lime, graphite and raspberry scents lead the nose, while red plum, pomegranate and citrus flavors converge. It's full and foamy on the palate.
This is the second vintage of this wine from the winery's young estate property. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, it's locked up at present with aromas of coffee, graphite, cherry, barrel spices and licorice. The dark chocolate and cherry flavors are tightly coiled and the lightly grippy tannins are wound up. There's lot of promise there but it needs time to be realized. It will be best after 2021.
This is the second vintage release for the estate vineyard, which occupies the highest planted portion of Red Mountain. Precise, sharp-edged, high-acid red-fruit flavors of berry and cherry seem stacked vertically, with a strong mineral underpinning. The alcohol is a bit high, but overall the structure holds together and would support further aging; drink now–2022.
This is the second wine from one of the group of chateaus with Corbin in their names. It is a tight wine, firm with tannins and with a concentrated texture and flavors of over-extraction. That said, the wine will probably develop over time into something serious with a dark, dense aftertaste.
This is the second wine from Premier Grand Cru Classé estate La Gaffelière, made from a selection of vines and barrels. It is rich and very ripe with bold black-fruit flavors and a dark, firm structure. The wine is already in balance, showing that it will develop quickly and attractively. Drink from 2018.
This is the second wine from Siaurac, generous and ripely fruity. It is packed with juicy blackberries, acidity and an open, generous character. With its fruit and soft tannins it needs no aging. Drink now.
This is the second wine from the Château Grenouilles vineyard, very fresh, but at the same time weighty and concentrated, with wood, caramel and generous fruits. Age for 5 years.
This is the second wine from the Pintas vineyard in the heart of the Pinhão valley. It's powered by mint, dark plums and new wood flavors to give a richly concentrated, juicy wine. It's still young, showing all its initial fruitiness, and those tannins and acidity will need several years. Drink from 2017.
This is the second wine from this showpiece quinta. The wine is a classic Douro blend dominated by Touriga Franca, giving a rich, soft and juicy character that is ready to drink. It has great fruit, spice and integrated tannins.
This is the second wine of Château Balestard, and there are suggestions of high extraction and very ripe fruit. It does have balance, however, the black fruits need time to calm down. The acidity is all here, offering freshness to this rich wine.
This is the second wine of Château de Chambert, one that's made to be drunk young. It has bright red fruits and soft tannins that are well integrated into aromatic fruits that burst from the glass. Drink this wine now for its delicious fruitiness or wait until 2018 for the exuberant fruit to calm down.
This is the second wine of Château de Mercuès, and it has some of the same concentration and tannins as the first wine, without the huge and powerful structure. It will develop its black cherry and spice flavors relatively quickly, to yield a ready-to-drink wine in 2–3 years.
This is the second wine of Château Labégorce. It has much of the elegance of the top wine with firm tannins and generous fruits kept in stylish proportion. Black currant and berry fruits lie under the dark, dry exterior. The wine is dense, needing several years' aging. Drink from 2018.
This is the second wine of Château Pibran, whose vineyard is situated close to those of the the first growths of Mouton and Lafite. Structured and dense, this is a solid, powerful wine, packed with juicy black currant fruits and generous tannins. Give this wine until 2018 before drinking.
This is the second wine of Clerc Milon from an exceptional year. With the soft richness of the vintage, its tannins are velvety and ripe. Blackberry fruits and mint shine through the smoky edge of tannins to give a wine that has both generous fruits and a tight end that brings in bright acidity. It is just ready to drink, although it will be better from 2017.
This is the second wine of Clos Haut-Peyraguey. It comes from a fine Sauternes vintage with a great balance between acidity and rich sweetness. With botrytis, plenty of sweetness, bitter marmalade and apricot fruit and delicious acidity, the wine is almost ready to drink. Just wait until the end of 2017.
This is the second wine of Fourcas Dupré. It is soft, full of ripe berry fruits and attractive acidity. The core of the wine is still dry and shows plenty of tannic structure that will allow the wine to age. Drink from 2019.
This is the second wine of Grand Cru Classé Château la Gaffelière. It revels in ripe juicy Merlot while keeping a sense of style and elegance. Produced by the Malet-Roquefort family, owners since 1705, the wine has some firm tannins while never losing sight of the generous black fruits. Drink from 2022.
This is the second wine of Labégorce, named as a remembrance of the separate château Labégorce-Zédé that was purchased in 2005. It is a firm wine, with a perfumed character from the judicious wood aging. The tannins are likely to remain part of the character of this wine, working with the black-currant fruit and the final, smoky flavor. Drink from 2017.
This is the second wine of Laroze, a property situated on the plateau to the west of Saint-Émilion. This is a softly ripe and perfumed wine with 40% Cabernet Franc in the blend. It is rich, smooth and dense with black fruits and balanced acidity. Drink from 2018.
This is the second wine of Larrivet Haut-Brion. It is rich with tannins and juicy with black-currant acidity. As befits a second wine, it is developing well and easily. Drink from 2021. While it shares the same name as Château Haut-Brion, there is no ownership or location connection between the two properties.
This is the second wine of Listrac's Chateau Fonréaud. A blend of half-and-half Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, it is rich and juicy. Blackberry fruits are shot through with acidity and balanced with generous tannins that are softening well. With its juicy acidity and fruity aftertaste, it will be ready to drink from late 2017.
This is the second wine of Mouchão estate, a power in its own right. It is beautifully perfumed with violets and spice while its tannins and dark chocolate flavors are well integrated with the generous black fruits and acidity. The wine, even at four-years-old, is still young and will need much further aging. Drink from 2020.
This is the second wine of the Phélan-Ségur estate. With its firm tannins and layers of wood aging, it is a wine that will need time. At this stage, the wine is dry although the rich berry fruits offer intensity and the potential for a fine wine. Drink from 2020.
This is the second wine of Vieille Cure, one of the leading Fronsac estates. It is aging well, moving from fruit to mature, secondary flavors, softening in the process. Wood aging has balanced the blackberry fruit with spice and made it ready to drink.
This is the side project of vineyard manager Chuy Ordaz and his family, from a vineyard he has long farmed. It's impressively elegant while offering a pack of combustible power. Rustic and earthy on the nose, it follows with truffle, red and blue fruit, leather and coffee, the tannins are big and spicy.
This is the small-production, flagship wine from the Sierra region's best producer of Rhône-style wines. Lovely, spicy, floral aromas and generous, complex and layered flavors make the wine irresistible, while its strong but velvety texture sets it up for a long life in the cellar for those who can resist. It smells lightly oaky, like a cigar box and cocoa, tastes deep and focused on blackberry, pomegranate and dark chocolate. The mouthfeel is both rich and a bit reserved. Best to drink from 2020 to 2030.
This is the smoothest, most polished of Standish's quartet of new Pinots. It's a best-of-barrels selection, and really impressive in cherry, currant, licorice, cola and Provençal herbs. With near-perfect balance, it exemplifies Anderson Valley and also is a standout in the great 2005 vintage. It was crafted, under Standish's “guest winemaker” program, by Zach Rasmussen, of Goldeneye.
This is the softest of the three single vineyard wines from Château de Fuissé. It has a warm, rich character, generous and full in the mouth. Yellow fruits are partnered with citrus acidity and an attractive layer of wood. The wine ends with the freshness of the vintage.
This is the sort of Chardonnay that first put Australia on the radar of many American wine drinkers. It fits the “cheap and cheerful” description to a tee, offering hints of toast, medium body and clean, refreshing fruit flavors of pear, melon and pineapple. Drink now.
This is the sort of Shiraz that forces tasters to re-examine their view of the variety as produced in Australia. It starts off with powerful aromas of cracked pepper and floral notes evocative of violets, then delivers explosively spicy flavors of pepper and licorice cushioned by ripe blackberries and a rich, supple texture. It's the best of New and Old Worlds. Drink 2010–2020 plus. Imported by USA Wine West.
This is the sort of stereotypical Aussie Shiraz the haters love to hate. It's full-bodied, warm and plush, oozing with blackberries and plums and loaded up with vanilla and mocha. Yet it's well done, inexpensive and just plain delicious. Drink now–2020.
This is the sort of wine that should generate some enthusiasm in America for Australian Grenache. It's full-bodied, but soft and cuddly, an easy-drinking, fruit-and-oak blend with flavors of vanilla and jammy fruit. The only quibble is the relatively fast fade on the finish. Drink now.
This is the southern portion of the Montmains premier cru and is not often bottled separately. It is rich with yellow fruits while also having a totally crisp and mineral character. The touch of honey gives further ripeness while the aftertaste is all fresh, energetic fruit.
This is the stud in the Acústic stable. A blend of 70% Carignan and 30% Garnacha, Braó is lively and bright on the nose, with ripe blackberry and cassis aromas. The palate is concentrated and juicy, with fine balance and bold flavors of blueberry, blackberry and coffee. A toasty, dark finish features chocolate, toast and minerality. Drink through 2019.
This is the sweetest, jammiest of Fogarty's '04 Cabs, and also the the tartest. It has the fruit acidity sharpness of cherry and black raspberry jam, as well as a firm tannic structure. Could develop bottle complexity over the years, but there's a certain thinness that raises eyebrows.
This is the third bottling of this wine, which employs whole-cluster fermentation to provoke a slower ferment and mellowed tannin. It succeeds, though it doesn't hold back, showing plenty of firm tannin backbone seasoned by clove, black tea, sage and anise. The acidity tingles on the palate.
This is the third consecutive year this wine has been rated 92 points. It is dense and potent, with aromas of cola, pencil lead and wild berry. It feels smooth, polished and finessed, with cola, vanilla, baking spice and vibrant black-fruit flavors. It finishes with licorice, toast and cola notes. Drink now–2017.
This is the third of three Chardonnays named after the winemaker's daughters. The aromas bring notes of clarified butter, lees, spice, pear, pineapple and other tropical fruit. The flavors are rich but still show restraint, with a lightly creamy feel and a long finish.
This is the third release of Figgins, a single wine produced by Leonetti's Chris Figgins from his Figgins Estate vineyard. Intensely aromatic, it explodes from the glass with baking spices and deep cassis fruit. Over the course of three days it opened into a sleek, stylish, complex mix of purple- and black-berries, dried herbs, bark, dusty cocoa and a streak of caramel. Long and lush, it's a wine to cellar for a decade or more.
This is the third release of the rosé produced by Mathilde Chapoutier, whose father, Michel, runs the famed Hermitage-based M. Chapoutier. It is a light-colored wine, a typical Provence blend with the addition of Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruity and with great acidity, it is light in texture, just hinting at minerality. Drink now.
This is the third separate cuvée of Grüner Veltliner from Reustle, and given the name (which means emerald), it's clearly meant to be modeled after the Austrian style. For those who relish a crisp, mineral-driven wine, with ripe fruit flavors of Meyer lemon, green apple and pink grapefruit, this rings all those bells and more. The length and definition are most impressive.
This is the third vintage for this rare Washington Tempranillo from Alexandria Nicole. It's a crowd-pleaser, with deep fruit flavors of black cherry candy, wrapped in earthy, dusty tannins. As it breathes the aromas show vanilla, lanolin and spice, and the wine has excellent weight and concentration for such young vines.
This is the third vintage of a wine from a single parcel of ungrafted vines, produced in a walled vineyard within the ruins of the Sancerre city walls. The vines are a selection from the family's Les Romains vineyard. It cannot be labeled Sancerre because of the experimental methods used in its production. The wine is young, needing to age to develop its concentrated fruits and rich apple and apricot flavors. Tight and tense at this stage, it will develop slowly. Drink this rare wine from 2019.
This is the third wine of classed growth Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, a charming offspring of the more serious grand vin. It shows lively black fruits, touches of wood and balanced acidity. It's a wine to drink young and fruity, so open from 2016.
This is the third year McCrea has made an Elerding Chardonnay, fermented on wild yeasts in stainless tanks, then aged sur lie in fairly neutral oak. Complex, textured and loaded with banana and butterscotch flavors, it's a rich wine that retains enough elegance to go down easily with food.
This is the top bottling of Thomas Fogarty's ambitious Bordeaux-aimed brand, and it shows, with regionally distinctive aromas of crushed rocks, blueberry, tar and smoke. The intriguing palate is elegance defined, with sexy tannins and mineral-driven flavors of black dirt, wet slate and squeezed blueberry. It makes for enlightening drinking now, but offers measured components that will last until at least 2030.
This is the top cuvée from Pouilly-Fuissé's most famous estate. It is a big, round wine, its curves opulent and generous. There are yellow fruits, particularly apricots, and the wine is given some sinew by its acidity and by the light spice aftertaste.
This is the top cuvée from Sainte-Roseline (you can tell from the weight of the bottle). It has power, a smooth texture and a rounded aftertaste. The red fruits are well integrated into the rich texture. It would be worth aging this until the end of 2014.
This is the top cuvée produced from the Fournier's Pouilly-Fumé vines. It is rich while crisp, showing fine acidity and a mineral texture. The green fruits cut through the zesty texture of the wine giving concentration and depth of flavor. Drink this serious wine now.
This is the top rosé from the estate, one of the Côtes de Provence crus classés. The wine is smooth and ripe, although it never loses a fresher edge crisp with lemon-zest flavors. The wine has intensity, concentration and a warm aftertaste.
This is the top wine from Balland, who is based in the Coteaux du Giennois further north. Taking its name from the limestone pebbles in the vineyard, it is textured, mineral and zesty. Crisp lemon and warmer green plums give it tautness and add a richer element. Drink from 2017.
This is the top wine from Château Haute-Serre, a powerful expression of Malbec, very dense and solid, but certainly not overpowering. It has ripe fruit that is held in check by brooding tannins and a firm structure, giving it weight but also surprising restraint. Age for 4–5 years.
This is the top wine from Château Minuty. The Grenache (95%) and Syrah (5%) blend is harvested and sorted by hand. It combines the Provençal charm with some weight and a serious purpose. It is rich, full in the mouth, packed with red berry fruits and balanced acidity. The aftertaste brings out a lightly tannic texture. Drink from late 2015.
This is the top wine from Fabien Jouves's estate. There is some new wood aging here and it shows in the polished edges of the very firm tannins. Burnt coffee and plum skin flavors add to the considerable power, the fruit just beginning to push through the tannins. Age for several more years.
This is the top wine from Kirnbauer, produced from vines in the Mittelburgenland region—one of the best areas for Blaufränkisch. This serious, wood-aged and complex wine has both intense bitter-cherry acidity and a firm, dense and tannic texture that shows aging potential.
This is the top wine from Pitault-Landry at Domaine les Pins. It is concentrated, ripe and firmly structured. Wood aging has smoothed the texture and brought out the red fruits. It still could age further with its generous fruitiness. Drink from late 2017.
This is the top wine from the estate, a pure expression of the local Négrette. It is a wood-aged wine, from organic grapes, rich and structured. With intense tannins, spice and young fruit and wood notes, it is a perfumed wine with a future. The name, in the southern French langue d'Oc (Occitan), means “everything that's necessary,” or a complete wine. Drink from 2018.
This is the top wine from the Jean-Pierre Fayard family Provence cru classé estate. It is full of ripe red fruits supported by a mineral texture. The wine is generous, bone dry but packed with great fruitiness and finished with refreshing acidity. This sophisticated wine could do with a few more months, so drink from late 2017.
This is the top wine from the Sainte Roseline estate. With a perfect salmon-pink color, the wine is ripe and full of red fruits that are softly integrated with the acidity. It is a food-style of wine, lit by spice and finished with a crisp aftertaste. Drink now.
This is the top wine from this estate. Wood aged and richly endowed with both fruit and firm tannins, it has a fine balance. The 12 months in wood have softened the wine's structure and given it extra richness. It is still full of youthful fruit, so drink from 2018.
This is the top wine from this producer. Produced, as its name indicates, from old vines, it is ripe with mango and pineapple fruits as well as fine streak of tangerine. There is good mineral texture and tight acidity to give this wine its crisp side. Drink this rich wine from 2018.
This is the top wine in the Wine & Soul range from Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges. It is a great wine in every sense, from its power and density to its grace and style. Allied with the black fruits, there are huge tannins and a dark, brooding character that promises long-term aging. Drink from 2020.
This is the type of Rueda that most white-wine fans probably want. The bouquet gives a mix of sassy lime and passion fruit, while the mouthfeel is zesty and fresh, with pithy citrus, grapefruit and lime flavors. A minerally finish that's angular yet smooth is welcome.
This is the type of wine they love in Emilia-Romagna. A rich berry nose begins things. In the mouth, there's wonderful texture, balance, and a persistent berry finish. Not a complex wine, but a good one--and what a great wine with a pasta dish such as tortellini alla Bolognese. Very drinkable now.
This is the ultimate pizza wine because, well, it shares many aromatic qualities with our favorite Italian pies. You'll detect dried oregano, green tomato and smoked ham. The wine's sour close would cut clean through melted cheese.
This is the very definition of a modern cult-style Napa Cabernet. It's extraordinarily rich and flavorful in blackberries, blueberries, cassis and chocolate, while the jacket of tannins is as soft and velvety as modern winemaking can achieve. It doesn't seem likely to age beyond 2015.
This is the vineyard that surrounds the winery on Ribbon Ridge, and it seems always to produce the wines with the greatest concentration and density. The black cherry fruit, with aromatic accents of rose petals and highlights of oregano, digs deep into the midpalate, creating an impression of a bulky, tight, compact wine with miles yet to go. Cellar it for drinking from 2020 through 2030.
This is the weak link in an otherwise increasingly enjoyable range of wines from Barton & Guestier. Positioned somewhere between off dry and medium sweet, it has an edge of bitter sulphur along with almond and quince fruit flavor. The final acidity jars.
This is the white version of the winemaker's red-white DJ selection. The wine is a blend of four grapes giving a soft rich taste. It has just enough acidity to bring a crisp contrast. Otherwise it is warm, full of apricot as well as citrus fruits. Drink now.
This is the winery's basic Cabernet, a blend of five vineyards on the mountain. It's a smooth, elegant, classic mountain Cab, that's dry and tannic, with delicious blackberry, currant and sweet-smoky oak flavors. It's right up there with Von Strasser's vineyard-designated wines that cost nearly twice as much, which makes it a great value.
This is the winery's bells and whistles Chardonnay. Grown from inland fruit, in a vineyard near Ukiah, it's rich in buttercreamy peach, pear and pineapple flavors, with a spicy, racy finish.
This is the winery's best blend. It's been a consistently excellent wine, showing a fuller body, richer, deeper fruit and an oakier overlay than the regular Pinot Noir. The red fruits veer into blue and black fruits, even ripe blue plums and mocha. With some dusty tannins, it could develop over the next six years.
This is the winery's best Cabernet Sauvignon in years. It has classic black currant flavor, enhanced by smoky oak, and feels distinguished in the mouth. It's young, but should begin to mellow and show its stuff by 2017.
This is the winery's best Chardonnay blend. It comes mainly from Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, and shows the fine structure associated with the appellation. Juicy acidity firms up the oak-inspired Meyer lemon, crushed pineapple and tangy mineral flavors. Should soften and become more complex over the next six years.
This is the winery's best Chardonnay, but that's no surprise given its source: the famous Rochioli Vineyard. Right now, it's dominated by new oak influence, with buttered toast, butterscotch and caramel flavors. But there's an intense core of pineapples, oranges, green apples, nectarines and apricots, and the finish is absolutely dry. The vineyard's minerality and the Russian River's acidity provide balance. Give it until the summer of 2013, and then enjoy it for several more years.
This is the winery's best Dijon Clones Chardonnay ever. It shows the balanced, long hangtime fruit of the vintage, bursting with ripe flavors of pineapples, oranges, honeydew melons and pears, along with toasty new French oak and vibrant acidity. What a yummy wine to drink with scallops or crab.
This is the winery's best Marinus since 2007, and is as good as the '04—which is arguably the best ever. It offers immediate pleasure, with soft tannins and acids framing perfectly ripened blackberry, cherry, cola and earthy flavors. Ready to drink now.
This is the winery's best Nebula in years. While it's still a little on the soft, sweet side, the cool vintage has resonated in the wine's flavor, giving it a good structure housing cherry, currant and sandalwood flavors. Drink now.
This is the winery's best new Pinot Noir. Essentially a barrel selection, using different clones from multiple sites in the estate vineyard, it's spicy and dry, with complex flavors of raspberry and cherry tart, Dr. Pepper, spice, sandalwood and anise, as well as a hint of mushroomy funk. Enjoy now–2015.
This is the winery's best Pinot since 2007, although it does seem to be peaking. The raspberry, cherry, cola and sandalwood flavors are housed in a tart, silky texture. Grilled tuna strongly suggests itself.
This is the winery's big, barrel-fermented Chard. Even under all that creamy, smoky oak and leesy richness, those Edna Valley acids shine through, making the lime, kiwi and pineapple flavors bright, and leading to a zingy, crisp finish.
This is the winery's budget offering. It shows modest varietal flavors, with a slight burned or roasted character.
This is the winery's Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux blend, containing all five of the major Bordeaux grape varities. Superripe and high in alcohol, it lacks subtle complexity or ageworthiness. Forward jam, chocolate and oak flavors are undeniably delicious though.
This is the winery's eighth vintage working with this block of this vineyard. Aromas of spice, herb and dark fruit lead to sleek pure sweet fruit flavors. It shows a lot of delicacy.
This is the winery's estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, and it opens rather stiff and herbal. It's a taut, dark and deep wine that rewards decanting, showing good concentration and dense layers of brambly berries, licorice and espresso. Age for at least another decade.
This is the winery's every day generic red blend, mixing vintages, vineyards and grapes. It's forward, fruit-powered and relatively soft, finishing with astringent and herbal tannins.
This is the winery's first-ever release of a varietal Tempranillo, after using the grapes with Syrah for years in other bottlings.This wine has a softness around a touch of black pepper and dried herb that's inviting, if not a tad generic. The finish is round and lean.
This is the winery's first attempt at a reserve-level Rhône-style wine. A blend of Mourvèdre (51%), Cinsault (27%), Grenache (18%) and Counoise, it leads with fragrant aromas of crushed flowers, thyme, smoke, white pepper and boysenberry. The mouthfeel is seamless and the flavors rich, along with exquisite balance and exceptional length.
This is the winery's first bottling of estate Chardonnay, from a vineyard on the western edges of Carneros named for the owner's two children. Ephemeral and crisp, it speaks to its cooler conditions, exhibiting low oak impact around lilting, floral notes of citrus. Salty, with a restrained hint of vanilla and coconut, it finishes lengthy and complex.
This is the winery's first bottling of Malbec from this up-and-coming vineyard. Woodspice, cedar and mushroom aromas are followed by seemingly dried-out cherry flavors that trail toward the finish.
This is the winery's first bottling of this Bordeaux blending grape It is a curiosity that will be of interest to those in search of the unique and rare, but this does not convince me that the grape should be the centerpiece of a varietal wine. There's tangy, plummy fruit, searing acids and very astringent tannins. But the wine is incomplete—there's no middle.
This is the winery's first Chard with a Sonoma Coast appellation, and it's drier and more acidic and minerally than past bottlings. That's a good thing. It makes the wine a standout partner for food. With subtle lime, green apple, green pea and smoky oak flavors, it's a crisp, versatile wine across a vast range of fare.
This is the winery's first commercial release of this varietal, all aged in neutral French oak. It offers nuanced aromas of spice, tobacco, vanilla and savory notes that are followed by plentiful, palate-coating red and blue-fruit flavors that extend out through a long, fruit and spice-filled finish. Firm tannins provide the structure. It needs time still but possesses a delicious factor that is impossible to ignore.
This is the winery's first Kanzler Vineyard Pinot Noir and its only Sonoma Coast appellation Pinot. The cool-climate vineyard offers ripe cherry and plum around a core of firm, velvety tannins. From there, vibrant cranberry and rhubarb flirt with black tea, while red apple, sage and sandalwood notes round out the flavors on the long finish.
This is the winery's first Merlot. It's a simple, pleasant effort, fruit forward and lightly oaky. The usual flavors of berry are there, and the balance is fine; it just could use more concentration through the finish.
This is the winery's first Petit Verdot, and it's a beauty. Firm and muscular, it has plenty of blackberry and black cherry flavors hanging on its tannic bones. The finish shows a smack of dark chocolate, and the overall structure suggests that this will age for 15 years or more.
This is the winery's first Pinot of the vintage. Hence it's a preview of their 2012s to come, and what promise it holds. The acidity is high and the alcohol is low, making for an elegant mouthfeel. But what's especially pleasurable are the deep flavors of black cherries, blueberries, red currants and sandalwood. The wine is fine to drink now, and should hold in the bottle until 2022. What a superb barbecued steak pairing.
This is the winery's first release of this vineyard-designated wine. Cocoa, fresh herb, tire rubber and cherry aromas are followed by cassis flavors backed by tightly wound tannins.
This is the winery's first single-vineyard Merlot. Polished and dense, its aromatics are a multidimensional mix of cassis, espresso, cacao and tobacco. Firm and full, the flavors continue along the same lines, going deep into a thoroughly satisfying finish.
This is the winery's first varietal Malbec. Estate grown at the Bella Terra vineyard, it's an exciting debut, with floral scents over vivid purple fruit, and residual flavors of cured meat, smoke and pepper. About 14% Petit Verdot has been added to the blend.
This is the winery's first vintage of prominently labeling its reserve-tier Cab under the To Kalon name, a nod to the vineyard's importance in the blend, which is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon, with handfuls of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soft and structured, it's a subtly powerful wine, offering cassis, cranberry, dried herb and savory touch of black tea.
This is the winery's flagship Cabernet. It's full-bodied, with classic Bing cherry Cabernet fruit as a base flavor; then a wrapping of toast and broad, astringent tannins. There's ample acidity to lift it a bit, and finishing layers of coffee, licorice, smoke, olive and loam.
This is the winery's flagship wine, the one that made it famous decades ago. It hasn't changed much over the years. It's still tannic and austere in youth, requiring many years to develop. But it's a cellar guarantee, with a wealth of concentrated cassis and cedar flavors that are just waiting for those tannins to drop out. Best after 2010.
This is the winery's French-oaked Syrah, thick and smoky, with a balanced mix of red and black fruits, nicely retained acids, and layers of creamy oak. The alcohol hits 14.6% but the wine remains smooth and supple. Barrel flavors expand into a lingering finish with butterscotch, mocha and spice.
This is the winery's fruitier, more accessible Syrah. Full bodied and fruity, it's fine introduction to Terre Rouge wines.
This is the winery's Graves-style Sémillon-Sauvignon Blanc blend. It's smoothly textured and a little soft, with citrus, herb and spice flavors that finish with a touch of toasty oak.
This is the winery's highest-end bottling, this year a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, from Alexander Valley and Mount Veeder. It's charming to drink now, with deep, impressively ripe blackberry, blueberry and dark chocolate flavors wrapped into soft, thick tannins. The finish is dry. Despite the deliciousness factor, it should hold and develop for at least six years.
This is the winery's highest quality wine, named in honor of their late winemaker, Guy Devaux, who brought a Champagne sensibility to the brand. At the age of eight years, it's softly complex and delicious in lime, raspberry, yeasty brioche and vanilla flavors. It has that hard to define quality of finesse that makes a fine sparkling wine so special.
This is the winery's inaugural vintage of this wine, which blends Birch Creek Grenache (57%) and Mourvèdre (14%) with estate Syrah. The aromas pop, with notes of stargazer lilies, dried tobacco, white pepper and red fruit that lead to soft, silky, very pretty fruit flavors.
This is the winery's least acccessible 2008 Syrah. It's too tannic and acidic to be properly appreciated, although decanting will help to unleash the massive blackberry, black currant and chocolate flavors. Cellar it through 2010 if you can.
This is the winery's Left-Bank-Bordeaux-style blend, three quarters Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a pleasing mix of red and black fruits, licorice, toast and smoke, and spent two and a half years in French oak, 60% new. The wine is quite tasty and drinking well, though the blend lacks focus.
This is the winery's low production barrel selection reserve. It shows big, zingy acidity and spicy, jammy flavors of raspberries and cherries, and is totally dry. The alcohol is refreshingly low. Tastes a bit direct now. Give it until early 2011 to calm down.
This is the winery's Meritage red, although with 75% Cabernet Sauvignon they could have bottled it as that variety. It's nearly always Sebastiani's best Bordeaux-style wine, but the '05 is something of a letdown from past vintages. It's elegantly structured and nicely flavored, with subtle currant, cherry, olive and smoke flavors, but has a bitter taste throughout.
This is the winery's more accessible and approachable Cabernet, ready to drink. Robust flavors of tobacco and brambly blackberry provide a nod to the mountain provenance. The wine spent more than a year in oak, 30% of it new French and 10% of it new American. The wood flavor is pronounced, a taste of vanilla an endpoint to the finish.
This is the winery's most expensive bottling, a late disgorged bubbly that has now seen a decade of age. It shows the elegant polish of the '97 Royal Cuvée, but is superior even to it in richness. The creamy smoothness is the star attraction, but so are the subtle citrus, raspberry, brioche and vanilla flavors. Impeccably dry balance guarantees that this beautiful brut will age effortlessly for 10 years, if not longer.
This is the winery's most limited offering, with exotic aromas of musk, saffron and sandalwood. It fills the midpalate with soft red fruits and more of those floral highlights, then turns slightly soapy and tannic.
This is the winery's most straight-forward pink, showing red plum, peach, light mulberry and steel aromas. It's all tension upon first sip, but then waves of ripe plum, citrus and brown spice overtake the palate.
This is the winery's off-dry sparkler. It's super-clean and crisp, with honeyed flavors of oranges and tangerines. A nice sip with fresh fruits, smoked ham, asparagus wrapped in prosciutto.
This is the winery's priciest red and also its best. It immediately appeals for the soft, lush texture and the way the sweet fruit marries with the oak to wow the palate. Shows lush cherries and cassis, with rich nuances of vanilla, smoky wood and anise. Decadent and delicious, and best now through 2011. Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, but comprised of all 5 Bordeaux varieties.
This is the winery's reserve-level 100% Cab, given the utmost care and attention. It opens shyly in cedar and blackberry before offering a luscious palate of tangy leather, dry, firm tannins and a peppery finish. From grapes designated as their own Heritage Clone, UCD 30, it beautifully expresses the appellation and should cellar well through 2020.
This is the winery's reserve-level cuvée. It's bright and high-toned, offering woody notes around lush cherry and mocha flavors. Delicious already, though more bottle age should further pull the barrel flavors into proper balance. Toasted marshmallow and caramel latté highlights adorn the buttery finish.
This is the winery's reserve-level effort, and will reward those who look for elegance over sheer power. Subtle, sculpted yet firm flavors of raspberry, cola and a touch of smoke come up, with a graceful, well-defined finish.
This is the winery's reserve-level Pinot Noir, and it's introduced with the loveliest aromas of fresh fruits and cut flowers. Elegant and seductive, the rich berry and cherry flavors come with a light dustiness, like a whiff of incense.
This is the winery's reserve bottling, representing the best five barrels of the vintage. Supple and refined, it frames its young berry fruit flavors in elegant tannins. Nicely focused and still a bit raw, this wine will reward some further years of aging.
This is the winery's reserve, a lot and barrel selection. Nicely layered, it rolls through strawberry, raspberry, light chocolate and sandalwood, tosses in a hint of cola, and smooths out through a medium-long finish. Nothing is heavy-handed, though in this excellent vintage a bit more concentration would be welcome.
This is the winery's reserve, made just once previously, in 2010. Rich, deep and chewy, it brings black cherry fruit to the front and center, streaked with highlights of earth and iron. Big at first, the wine seems to lighten up through the finish, with lemon and orange-peel notes leading into a pleasant wash of chocolate.
This is the winery's reserve, made just twice previously, in 2010 and 2012. Production is up sharply, and it's a ripe, round fruit pie of a wine, best enjoyed while still young. Red fruits and citrus are in the mix, with a touch of papaya. It was aged 14 months in French oak, two-thirds of it new.
This is the winery's second release of this 100% Syrah from the esteemed Stagecoach Vineyard. It's enormously rich and opulent in blackberry, black cherry jam, chocolate, anise and pepper flavors. There's plenty of new French oak, but the wine easily shoulders it. It's a delicious sipper.
This is the winery's sixth vintage of Zinfandel from the Zephyr Ridge vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills. It's ripe and substantial, soft and loaded with rich berry fruit flavors. Despite the high (27.1) brix, the wine is neither hot nor jammy, and keeps plenty of acid behind stiff, lightly earthy tannins. It is one of the best Zins yet from the winery that pioneered the grape in Washington State.
This is the winery's small-production, high-end Chardonnay, which shows the brilliant essence of Edna Valley. Few Chardonnays in the state are this streamlined, low in alcohol, crisp and minerally. An accomplishment in this day and age of fat, oaky bottlings, this has a steely taste that is relieved by subtle hints of lime, vanilla and buttered toast. Only 600 cases were produced.
This is the winery's stainless-steel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc. Dry and racy in acidity, it shows lemon and lime flavors, with a rich hint of tart kiwi.
This is the winery's standard-bearer, produced in hefty quantities. In this vintage, it's a very nice wine, showcasing Zin's briary, brambly character, with wild cherry, thyme and pepper flavors. The wine is dry, with a smooth, creamy texture, and, in its own way, classic Paso Robles Zinfandel.
This is the winery's superstar Bordeaux-style blend, and one of the defining red wines of the Okanagan. In its youth it is peppery, tannic and tough, with strong herbal flavors, along with pomegranate, cranberry and white raspberry fruit. It's firmly acidic, lightly toasty, complex and finished with flavors of coffee grounds, cacao, baking spices and smoke. Drink now through 2025.
This is the winery's sweet sparkling wine. It has the elegant structure, fine acidity and forward raspberry, strawberry, lime, vanilla and smoke flavors of the dry bruts, with a sugary finish, for those who like their bubblies on the sweet side.
This is the winery's third vintage, and they continue to make elegant, supple and snappy wines. This is the ripest to date, and has a healthy 14.7% alcohol level, but it retains many of the spice and herbal highlights that keep it interesting. The fruit brings on berries, plums and some of the brambly character of Zinfandel; the barrels add clove and nutskins. Cola and sassafras wrap into the sharp finish.
This is the winery's top brut, and what a gorgeous wine it is. Blended equally with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it shows lime, tangerine and strawberry flavors that are subtle and rich. The mousse is very fine, giving it a silky texture. Beautiful to drink now.
This is the winery's top Cabernet. The '09 is very ripe, rich and forward, offering powerful blackberry, cherry and currant flavors that are wrapped into soft, gentle tannins. It's quite good, but it needs a couple of years in the bottle. Best around 2015.
This is the winery's top Chardonnay, kept in bottle an extra year prior to release. Even in a challenging vintage such as 2011 it's a huge wine with astonishing concentration and power. The fruit has coiled intensity—so potent that it seems ready to burst wide open. Ripe apple and peach, olive oil, toasted almonds and plenty of new oak flavors abound. It's a jaw-dropper, and may be drunk now through 2022.
This is the winery's ultra-reserve-level Chardonnay, labeled “Grand Cru” just to make the point. In this vintage of exceptionally ripe fruit, its superrich style explodes from the glass, with a cavalcade of apple pie, buttered nuts and popcorn flavors. It's big, bold and massively concentrated. This is best enjoyed through 2019.
This is the winery's wine club cuvée, a five-vineyard blend with an emphasis on pretty, tart, cherry fruit. It's not a complicated wine, but the fruit/acid balance is just right, and any new oak was applied with a very light touch.
This is the winning Mourvèdre of the vintage for Ryan Pease, one of the few winemakers to do multiple bottlings of the Rhône varietal. Exotic olallieberies, black peppercorns, vanilla cookies, nutmeg and black rocks show on the nose, while the palate delivers tighter boysenberries, cracked pepper, Sichuan peppercorns, wet gravel and crushed asphalt. This one's built to last.
This is the workhorse grape of Champagne and some domestic sparklers. Very little is bottled as still wine in Oregon. It has Pinot Noir color with some similar aromas of cola and sassafras, but veers off into an earthier, almost musky direction all its own. The pretty cherry fruit calls out for duck or salmon.
This is the workhorse release from an always dependable producer, and it's excellent. Not enormously complex or layered, but very ripe; it offers up-front peach flavors veering into tropical fruit, with a solid dose of smoky oak that adds nuance. Vibrant and alive, with high acidity that endows it with marvelous structure.
This is the young fruity wine from the Cèdre estate that also produces some of the most serious wines in Cahors. It is soft, packed with black fruits and with layers of spicy acidity. There is just a touch of tannin, which will make the wine a great barbecue accompaniment this summer.
This is thick and spicy, a raging bull of a wine that skates along the border of Napa Cabernet country. As this Horse Heaven Hills vineyard matures, it is becoming clear that it can deliver the big, broad and deep flavors that put Washington Merlot at the front of the class. What's especially nice about this blend is its intense bouquet of blackberry, spicy anise and cedar. For all of its power this retains its balance, its acidic spine and even a touch of grace.
This is thick, quite ripe and full-bodied wine rich in baked apple and vanilla custard, the layers concentrated and veering on sweet.
This is thick, rich and very beerenauslese-like, combining honey and dried apricot aromas with similar flavors and a touch of candied pineapple. It's sweeter and richer than the regular auslese, but only more appealing for true sugar hounds, who'll admire its extreme viscosity and long, mouthcoating finish.
This is thin and acidic, with flavors of sour cherry candy and spice.
This is thin and tart, but it shows enough Chardonnay flavor, with simple fruit and smoked butter flavors.
This is thin and uninspiring, but it's dry, with watery berry and spice flavors.
This is this winery's fourth vintage, and the promise is strong, as this is one of the better white wines to emerge from Southern California in recent years. Anjou pear rinds, lime and apple scents show on the slightly sour but very aromatic nose. The flavors are rounded with pear and lime, but the sharp and chalky texture is most compelling, making for a clean and crisp wine.
This is three-fifths Cabernet Sauvignon, the rest split between Cabernet Franc and Merlot. It's supple and forward, with pretty, plummy fruit and pleasing touches of cinnamon and spice.
This is three-quarters Pinot Noir, 15% Pinot Meunier and 10% Chardonnay. It's a thoroughly captivating rosé, with Champagne-like finesse. Concentrated flavors deftly mingle cherry, green citrus and herb, with a lovely mineral base.
This is three fifths Merlot, the rest spread among the other four Bordeaux grapes. It's very well crafted, showing a bit of herb along with berries and spice. What most impresses is the overall structure, and the impression of ageworthy muscle in the finish.
This is tight and closed, with bitter tannins. It takes a while for the red berry flavor to surface, offering a wine that has potential for richness in 3–4 years time. It will always have a final, mineral-driven tautness.
This is tight and rubbery in feel, without much depth or give to the palate. Herbal tea aromas accent generic red fruit scents. Raspberry, red plum and salty flavors finish choppy but clean.
This is tight and sturdy as a rock up front, with licorice, hard spice, leather and black cherry aromas. It feels round, chewy, tough and healthy, with flavors of baked black fruit, chocolate, molasses and hickory. Roasted and oaky, but cool and collected. Drink now through 2016.
This is tight to the point of being shut down. Scents of skin phenolics suggest pear and apple fruit, but there's little flesh on these bones, and the wine stubbornly refuses to open up, even after several hours of breathing time.
This is tight when first opened, with a hard-edged herbal character. Beneath that shell are richer, tropical fruit flavors of ripe banana, yellow apple and a hint of papaya; and with plenty of breathing time the wine softens and opens out. Roughly two thirds of the barrels were new French oak; and that is still being resolved into the fruit. This wine has a good 6–8 years of life ahead of it, but if you are drinking it now, decant it.
This is tight, crisp and herbaceous, dominated by Sauvignon Blanc. A mineral character gives a firm texture. It needs to age a few months, so drink from 2015.
This is tight, juicy wine produced by the local cooperative. It has intense black-currant acidity and spice and toast from the wood aging. With its tannins it will age. Drink from 2019.
This is tight, mineral and on the dry side of Brut. The 100% Chardonnay taste signals chalky soil—crisp and fresh. A pure line of acidity cuts through the texture, giving a balanced, always dry wine that could do with more bottle aging to soften the piercing acidity at the end.
This is tight, showing bitter red berries as well as firm tannins. It has an awkward rough animal character that underlies the crisp acidity. The finish is better, showing delicious red cherries and layered freshness. Glass stopper.
This is tight, tannic and offers red-currant fruits. It has a dusty texture along with layers of acidity, spice and hints of wood aging. The wine is fresh with bright fruitiness and good acidity. The tannins do suggest aging potential, so don't drink before 2019.
This is tight, tannic and with spice and a red-fruit character. The wine is still very young with the fruit of the year masked by the tannins. Drink from 2018.
This is tight, toasty and focused upon opening, with highlights of green olive and a core of mixed tree fruits. Excellent concentration, vivid acidity and a suggestion of wet rock contribute to a well-balanced wine with structure and length. The framing here is just right, with 30% new oak adding subtle threads of light wood flavors. Decant or cellar till 2020 before drinking.
This is tight, with acidity that cuts through the red fruits and perfumed raspberry flavors. It is light and bright, with minimal tannin and just a hint of structure.
This is tightly crisp, with plenty of acidity to give it a mouthwatering character. It is balanced, with orange and caramel flavors. Great with food. Screwcap.
This is Toad Hall's Meritage-style Bordeaux blend, 50-50 Cab and Merlot, and while it doesn't have much depth, it appeals instantly for a rich array of flavors. Cherries, blackberries, cassis, mocha, mushu plum sauce—all of it slightly sweetened, but tannic enough to qualify as dry. Drink now for its youthful babyfat.
This is toasty and overflowing with wild berry and cassis aromas. The palate is tight and tannic, with salty berry fruit flavors that seem wild and untamed. Stays salty on the finish, with herbal notes sneaking in. It smells great, but it's rough in terms of feel.
This is toasty and vanilla-laden, but stands out for its full-bodied, lush character and intense fruit, which powers through on the finish.
This is toasty, full and cidery on the nose, with matchstick harshness in the background. The mouth is full and round, while flavors of apple and spice carry a yeasty heaviness. On the finish, things taste dry and don't evolve.
This is too oaky, but it's dry and crisp in acidity, with interesting citrus, tropical fruit and pear flavors. The heavy application of oak results in buttered toast and caramel accents.
This is too oaky, with dominating aromas and flavors of butterscotch, buttered toast and vanilla. The oak-derived tannins are discernable, but the underlying wine is dry and crisp, with flavors of raspberries and cherries. Drink now.
This is too oaky, with vanilla, buttered toast and butterscotch notes dominating the underlying pineapple and guava flavors.
This is too oaky. The wine is just overwhelmed by charry toast and strong, spicy oak wood flavors. Some people confuse the taste of Chardonnay with the taste of oak, but they are not the same.
This is too ripe, with a disagreeable pruny taste. The wine is dry and full bodied, but is almost like a minor Port. The official alcohol reading is 14.8% by volume, but it tastes higher and hotter than that.
This is top-notch Argentine Cabernet Franc. Savory, exotic, oaky blueberry and blackberry aromas set up a bold palate with ample acidity and modest tannins. Berry flavors and oak spice are the key flavors, while a buttery oak note and a pinch of salt rise up on the finish. Drink now through 2018.
This is top Champagne from Piper-Heidsieck, offering the delicious airy quality that's the hallmark of this house, with crisp apple flavor, tangy acidity and the first signs of yeasty, toasty bottle age. Its fruit intensity has transformed into a splendid selection. It's worth aging for a few more years, though also delicious now.
This is top drawer—elegant, detailed and richly varietal. The fruit is tart and tangy but not sour or thin. Mixed green fruits, apple, citrus, and a lightly toasty nose set up a wine with impressive length. The midpalate richness includes ripe melon, butterscotch and cinnamon spice. It's all barrel-fermented in neutral oak. This is a real strength of the brand.
This is Torrontes in its pure, true form. Trapiche has captured the light, floral essence of the grape and wrapped it in an oily but smooth package that houses lovely green apple and papaya flavors. With structure, flavor and balance, this wine will go well with a wide range of summer foods.
This is totally fruit-driven wine. With very fresh citrus acidity, it is as crisp as possible while not losing sight of the potential of its white fruits. There is a delicious steely edge as well as great acidity at the end. The wine is a blend from vineyards planted with 60% Sauvignon blanc, 30% Sémillon and 10% Muscadelle. The estate has been in the Le Grix de la Salle family for 100 years.
This is tough in tannins and somewhat rustic now, in the way of young Monte Bellos. There's not much to recommend opening it anytime soon, especially if you're a fan of the modern style of accessible lusciousness. But it is rich and minerally, with a fine core of black fruit. Monte Bello Estate (not to be confused with Ridge's similarly-named Estate Monte Bello, which costs far less) is a wine that historically ages very well, and 2009 was a pretty good vintage, so you're safe cellaring it for at least 10 years.
This is tremendous in blackberries, currants and plums, with grilled meat and black pepper notes, and the tannins are rich and profound. Right out of the screwtop, however, there's a tinny, metallic taste that detracts. Your best bet is to decant this fresh young wine and hope it blows off.
This is tropical on the nose, with light pear and banana aromas. It feels crisp and shearing, with mildly bitter flavors of citrus and scallion. Additional bitterness marks the finish.
This is tropical, boisterous rendition of the grape, with heavy tuberose, white lily, peach and apple-blossom aromas. The palate combines honeysuckle, ripe apple flesh and pineapple-guava flavors.
This is true Tannat, black colored, powerful and firm. It also has fruit weight, potentially delicious black plums, damsons and dark berries that give aging potential. For now, it has tannins, a dark, brooding character and concentration. Age at least until 2018.
This is truly prickly, with a slight spritz of CO2 acting to perk up the lime, green apple and pineapple aromas and flavors. It's at the same time plump and off dry, deftly balancing sweetness and zest. Drink now. Old Bridge Cellars.
This is turning into a ripe and fruity wine. The tannins are integrating easily into the black currant flavors. Soon the dry core will open out, supporting the fruit taste. The blend is 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. Drink from late 2016.
This is turning into an impressive wine as it finds its way between solid tannins and ripe, full black fruits. It is dark and dense at this stage with tannins that dominate. A more juicy character will develop as the wine ages. Drink from 2017.
This is tutti-frutti in scent, with a pear drop note that is loud and clear. It's light to medium in body, lacking some focus and concentration.
This is two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one-third Merlot, all sourced from the estate's DuBrul vineyard. It's drinking quite well, though clearly heading into secondary fruit flavors that reflect its ongoing maturation. Cherries, plums and cassis fruits mingle, along with silky, polished tannins. Though it can be cellared indefinitely, it may be at its most delicious drinking peak currently.
This is two-thirds Grenache, the balance divided equally between Syrah and Mourvèdre. It's a fruity mix of berry and plum flavors, with added spice and a lick of chocolate from aging in once-used French oak barrels. Relatively light, very clean and best for drinking young.
This is two-thirds Merlot, with a half-dozen other grapes filling in the balance. It's a soft, thick and rich wine that feels and tastes as if it's farther along the aging curve than the vintage would suggest. It's loaded with smooth red and purple fruits, flavors of fig newton cookies, even a bit of tar—all in all a generous wine drinking at or near its flavor peak.
This is two consecutive vintages of sketchy to poor rosé from this label. This one smells a bit like a swimming pool, while the flavors are of tart nectarine and pickle. Doesn't much cut it.
This is two thirds Chardonnay and the rest a Viognier/Roussanne blend. There is something a little off-putting in the aromas, a hint of volatility and sweatiness. In the mouth it is a simple, generic dry white.
This is typical Pinot Blanc—its warm, fruity and soft with just a touch of spice. The wine has an attractive line of acidity from its pear flavors, making it balanced and ready to drink.
This is typical, textbook Torrontés with tropical aromas of lime and orange peel. Citrusy acidity creates a refreshing palate feel, while tangerine, lime and lychee flavors conclude in a cleansing, non-oily fashion.
This is typically full, dark and rich, with balsamic aromas of roasted berry and leather. A tannic mouthfeel runs deep and dense, while flavors of licorice and baked black fruits finish with a heavy dose of chocolate along with a syrupy feel.
This is ultraripe and a bit raisiny on the nose, but there are encouraging flashes of schisty minerality and freshness. It feels jammy, full bodied and thick, with a baked black-fruit flavor and notes of licorice and tobacco. Smooth and earthy on the finish, with power to spare. Drink now–2014.
This is unapologetically warm-climate Chardonnay, featuring tropical fruit, plenty of weight and texture and a whack of vanilla and cut-wood character. It's a broad, full-bodied wine that pulls together on the finish, ending with notes of pineapple and citrus.
This is undeniably a concentrated wine offering a complex set of very appealing aromas and flavors (singed grapefruit peel, honey, caramel). However, it is a bit out of balance at 15.5% alcohol and finishes shorter than one has a right to expect in this triple-digit price range. It's starting to show some development and will probably not improve, so best to drink up soon.
This is undeniably an oaky wine with a prominent layer of buttered toast and butterscotch, but the underlying orange, guava and lime flavors are pristine.
This is unmistakably a mountain-grown Merlot, hefty with dark fruit and layers of baking spice. Concentrated and ready to age another 5–7 years, it has a long and leathery finish.
This is unusual for a reserve, in that it's lower in alcohol than the regular bottling, and more cases were produced. The light fruits and herbs—green apple and lemon verbena in particular—are highlighted with tarragon and citrus peel. The complexity compensates for the just-on-the-edge ripeness, and time in 20% new oak adds a buttery note to the finish.
This is unusual in that it's heavily oaked, as evidenced by aromas of varnish, hard spice and resin. The mouthfeel is fresh on top of resiny, while flavors of dry oak, spice and mild apple and citrus operate in the background. While this wine has depth of body and acidic lift, it's dominated by the barrel.
This is unusual, a Pinot Blanc with a Burgundy appellation. But with its creamy texture and soft fruitiness, it fits well into the Burgundy flavor spectrum. There is some crispness, bright acidity and a fresh final taste. Drink now.
This is unusually pale, with a suggestion of a tawny, slightly oxidized hue. The soft entry brings dusty spices and tart cherry fruit. It finishes with some darker, slightly charred tones, and a hint of cigar. Drink up.
This is unusually smooth and silky for Petit Verdot, which is often used in small amounts for blending. This is 100% varietal, with the floral aroma of the grape matched to deep flavors of cassis and smoky espresso. The tannin management is spot on.
This is Vallado's entry-level wine, full of open, easy, expressive fruit. Yet, it also shows the natural structure and texture that comes from schist soil. Its tannins remain in the background, with black currant fruit and acidity in the fore. Drink now.
This is Veramonte's top red. But frankly, it's green, herbal and difficult to enjoy. The nose offers plenty of green olive, while the heart of the wine is herbal and only gift-wrapped with coatings of blackberry and currant.
This is very acidic, like a taste of sour lemon. The flavors are of lemon cough drops, and the finish is dry.
This is very appealing for the soft, sexy texture and drink-me-now black currant flavors, but it's lacking the acid-tannin structure that great Napa Cab needs. Drink now and for a few years.
This is very appealing when first popped, with plenty of forward  butter and caramel scents livening up the fresh fruit. Ready to drink right now, it retains enough acid to stand up to food, though the finish is a little bitter from all the new oak.
This is very aromatic, with minerality vying with fruit and tense acidity. This complex wine has an austere side, both rich and structured that will soften in a couple of years.
This is very black currant in character, with crisp fresh fruits to go with the bright acidity. There are tannins certainly, lightened by the fruity character of the wine.
This is very close in quality to the winery's reserve bottling, boasting fully ripe cherry-berry fruit made complex by hints of vanilla and button mushroom. It's supple, silky and lingering on the finish, marked by lingering notes of vanilla and berry. Drink now.
This is very crisp, touched by red berry fruits but more dominated by tight, structured tannins. There's a balanced mix of acidity, texture and a hint of wood flavor, giving the Champagne a very wine-like feel.
This is very crisply defined, with sculpted fruit flavors of cranberry and raspberry. The wine was aged for 15 months in once-filled barrels, which still add a touch of toast to the flavors. The acids are proportionate and immersive, meaning that they do not intrude, but they support the overall structure beautifully.
This is very dense, with concentrated, dusty tannins and powerful blackberry flavors. It is rich and full of blackberry fruits along with acidity and a beautiful perfumed aftertaste. Drink from 2027.
This is very dry, tart, tangy, and lemony, with much of the flavor from skin phenolics and moderate fruit depth. It tastes of lemon rind and grapefruit rind, and shows plenty of acid.
This is very dry, with flavors of blackberries, cherries, currants and chocolate, plus complex notes of herbs, spices and minerals. The tannins are a wonder—dusty and interesting. Really good to drink now, yet it should change gradually in the bottle over the next 10 years.
This is very flavorful, fruity and full bodied. It maintains a sleek texture in spite of considerable tannins that keep it feeling dry. Aromas are like wild berries and cherry blossoms, the flavors are exotic and very ripe, and the finish keeps adding more fruit nuances.
This is very floral and fruity--almost to the point of being candied and artificial--with prominent flavors of cherries and bubble gum, yet finishing dry. A decent summertime quaff.
This is very fresh and nicely detailed, with just 13% alcohol allowing some of the more subtle Sauvignon Blanc flavors to show. Some of the oldest vines in the state—more than 35 years old—are a prime component. Melon, green apple, lime and grapefruit flavors all mingle; acids are just right and the balance could not be better for lighter seafood and poultry.
This is very fresh, with light acidity and a touch of caramel. Its round character is contrasted with tangerine crispness.
This is very good wine, showing total dryness, richness of tannins and herb-laden blackberry fruit. The tannins impress with their dry astringency, but the fruit is so rich and intense, the wine so balanced with acidity, that mid-term cellaring seems a good bet. Drink 2008–2011.
This is very light in color, with lightweight aromas of peach and citrus. It feels crisp and angular, with fine acidity that creates supreme freshness on the tongue. Flavors of peach and nectarine are spunky, ending like the toot of a whistle.
This is very light, in both flavor and body. The aromas are earthy, with a faint suggestion of blackberries, and the mouthfeel is thin. These aren't terrible flaws, but the wine just lacks substance.
This is very much in the house style of this producer in this vintage. It is a ripe wine, orientated towards yellow fruits with a hint of mango. The acidity is there to balance what is a rich wine, keeping the structure and shape. Drink this wine from 2018.
This is very much in the light, fruity style of instantly-drinkable Grüner. It's packed with green apple flavor and bright acidity. The finish is marked with a tang of citrus. Screwcap.
This is very nice varietal Bonarda. The nose is generic but floral, ripe and full of lifted blackberry and cassis aromas. A rubbery, agile palate carries dark, toasty flavors of blackberry, cassis and chocolate, then a peppery-tasting, toasty finish that manages to not be hot or fierce, which is a plus for this grape.
This is very pretty and enjoyable, with creamy peach, butterscotch and yellow rose notes. The wine has a lean, compact feel and a crisp, citrusy finish.
This is very rich in blackberries and currants, bearing lots of oak that adds caramelized toastiness. While the tannins are thick and fine, there's something rustic on the finish in the form of extracted, candied sweetness and heat. Flashy as it is, you're best drinking this wine now.
This is very rich, ripe and oaky, but a little over the top, with strong flavors of buttered toast, caramel, orange jam and spice. An outgoing wine crafted in the popular style.
This is very ripe, with jammy blackberry and cherry flavors that have a touch of plumped raisin and even a touch of milk chocolate. It's technically dry, but all that richness lends it unctuousness.
This is very smoky, with flavors of bacon as well as a yeasty character. The fruit has migrated into a taut texture, spiced with parsley and bay leaf. It's mature yet still zesty.
This is very soft and lacking in definition, with a light texture. However, it does have a crisp apple flavor and a line of acidity that gives freshness.
This is very soft and rounded, with a caramel edge. Its warm, ripe mouthfeel is marked by fruity, light acidity and a splash of lime. Screwcap.
This is very soft upon entry, with remnants of penetrating spicy and herbal flavors that might have punched up the intensity if they hadn't been somehow smoothed over. It's difficult to assess, because many of the right pieces are all here, but somehow they have not jelled. The wine tastes acidic and sharp, with pineapple and citrus dominating, and a chalky, tannic finish. Perhaps it's just a matter of time?
This is very spicy and smooth, with floral accents and a plummy core. It drinks well, although the finish fades rather quickly. A blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, with Syrah and Cabernet Franc filling in the rest.
This is very strong in fruit, tasting like the essence of raspberry and cherry, with penetrating acidity. It has a candied jamminess, although the finish is bone dry. Made from Syrah, Tempranillo and Grenache, it's a fun wine for drinking now with easy fare.
This is very structured and full, with a powerful minerality, citrus and spice flavors, and a tight, nervy character. It has the weight to age for 3–4 years.
This is very sweet in honey flavor, with fruity notes of apricot and orange. It could benefit from greater acidity to balance the sweetness, but it sure is a decadent dessert sipper.
This is very tannic yet very elegant. With a dry, astringent mouthfeel, it has a powerful heart of red and black cherries. Aging this wine is a bit of a gamble, but trying cellaring it until 2015. Otherwise, drink it with foods that are compatible with astringent, dry red wines.
This is very textured, with lemon zest and grapefruit acidity. It shows refreshing acidity, with a minerally, tangy and tight feel. With all this tautness, the wine needs to age for another 2–3 years.
This is very well made, smooth and supple. The round, approachable fruit tastes of red currant, red berry, and black olive. There is a flash of heat in the back of the throat, but it offer excellent value. Unfortunately it's very limited—just 99 cases.
This is vibrant and expressive, with upfront purple-flower fragrances of violet and iris mixed with fruity tones of boysenberry and raspberry sauce. The crushed-silk texture offers medium tannins, ample acidity and skin-driven fruit flavors. Roasted coffee bean and sweet smoke accents mark the lingering finish.
This is vinified in cement vats to retain the purity of fruit and easy crispness. You will also notice slight dusty tones of crushed mineral and vitamin on the finish.
This is VM's big single-vineyard Pinot, but it's already very approachable. Savory overtones of damp earth, outline modest pie-cherry notes that seem somewhat delicate. Enjoy this medium-bodied wine over the next few years for its silky texture.
This is Walla Walla Vintners' signature wine, and it is a classic: rich and oaky, sculpted but also chewy, with big cherry and baking chocolate flavors. There is an unusual flavor streak running through that tastes a bit like Thanksgiving turkey, believe it or not, but it's good. Tannins are polished and the toffee and chocolate finish ends things on a sweet and creamy note.
This is warm and loose, with fruit that is very ripe and just on the verge of pruney. The ripe fruit flavors seem to soften the tannins, which are also quite ripe and smooth. It tastes a bit like prune juice, but not unpleasantly so, with an acid base that compensates for the volatility of the finish. A drink-now wine, but it has its charms.
This is warm and round, with red fruit flavors that are attractively displayed against a backdrop of soft tannins. The acidity lends crispness, highlighting the ripe fruit on the finish.
This is warm and tropical on the nose, with banana, papaya, honeysuckle and tuberose aromas proving a bit overpowering. The palate offers smoked apple flavors.
This is warm region, warm vintage Syrah at its decadent best. It opens with generous aromas of raspberry and blackberry jam, along with plum pit, mineral, black olive and smoked meat. The flavors are velvety and palate coating, rich and intense, with black-fruit notes that glide on the extended finish. The sense of texture is dazzling.
This is Washington Syrah at its most distinctive. The fruit stands out with tart and tangy flavors of boysenberry, raspberry and a tartness reminiscent of cranberry. There are streaks of meat, smoke and bacon, and the acids are clean. This is a glorious food wine, but so juicy, assertive and delicious that it almost demands to be drunk on its own. Will it evolve in the cellar? Probably, but it's hard to keep your hands off it long enough to find out.
This is Watermill's five-grape, Bordeaux-style blend, built upon a solid foundation of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon. All the fruit is estate-grown, and the blend is smooth and well-integrated. The tightly packed, cassis fruit is framed with peppery tannins, and the wine has good definition and moderate length.
This is waxy on the nose, with the aromatic spunk of nettle and sweaty citrus. It feels fresh, minerally and zesty, with citrus, apple and green herb flavors. It's solid, smooth and elegant on the finish, which turns slightly bitter as it concludes.
This is waxy smelling, with a coastal vegetal note that conveys cool-climate grapes. The palate is short and clipped in feel, with a waxy, mealy note to the wine's core melon and peach flavors. It's chunky on the finish and is a touch mealy in taste.
This is weighty, closed, dark and dense, and the tannins dominate. For the time being, the ripe, juicy fruits are overwhelmed by the firm structure. This needs time.
This is weighty, creamy and medium to full in body. It has plenty of lime and pear flavors, plus slight brown sugar and vanilla notes.
This is well-balanced and ripe, with plenty of room for both the attractive black fruits and the firm tannic structure. Wood aging shows, although it will integrate well. The wine is fruity, likely to be ready to drink from 2016.
This is well-made in a classic Oregon mold, which is to say, putting plenty of herbal highlights into the mix. There are light red fruits in abundance as well, and the flavors meld well through a medium-long finish.
This is well-made, medium-bodied Chardonnay. Roasted cashews and grilled lemon slices mark the nose, while the flavors reflect more of the same, then draw to a long, crisp finish. Drink now–2020.
This is well balanced, ripe and with a good link between the structure and the fragrant, perfumed red berries. The wine is full of fruit and acidity while having a core of dark tannins that will allow it to age. It will be best drunk after 2018.
This is well done, given the transportation issues involved in producing this wine. The flavors are balanced and true to variety, with details of orange peel and citrus. Though a bit one-dimensional, this is pleasantly quaffable and should be consumed over the next couple of years.
This is well made, in a light, pale, tart style. The ample acidity boosts sour cherry fruit, keeping the wine sporty and fresh. It would make a fine match to salmon or turkey.
This is Weninger's top wine, an impressive array of spice, black berry fruit, dusty tannins and layers of wood and acidity. There is weight and restrained power here, a dark structure. Age 5-6 years.
This is what good, cool-climate Chardonnay tastes like without oak barrel influence. It's a dry, crisply acidic and strongly flavored wine, bursting with ripe pineapples, peaches, green apples and vanilla.
This is what rosé should be: pale in color, dry, delicate and tart in acidity, with subtle but complex herb, tea, orange zest and spice flavors. It represents a significant milestone in California rosés.
This is what vineyard selection and winemaker intervention can do to enrich a wine.  Everything here is on steroids.  The fruit is deep and rich, the oak is smoky and spicy and the finish long and deep.  Pretty fancy stuff that might even improve with a few years in the cellar.
This is what you want from Chile. The bouquet of green apple, lime, mineral, sea air and controlled sweetness is impressive while not being forceful. Flavors of citrus, pineapple and green herbs are live-wire, while the feel is stimulating and spritzy. With a juicy finish and tons of zest,this is a lovely, true wine that reflects its coastal San Antonio origins.
This is White Oak's best Chardonnay in years. The wine benefited from the chilly vintage, expressing citrus and tropical fruit flavors while preserving its vital acidity. It shows real elegance.
This is wide and sweet on the bouquet, with pear and cider aromas. It feels thick and a bit grabby, with basic apple flavor and not much more. Long on the finish, it has a decent feel if you don't mind some excess foam.
This is wildly aromatic, with floral hints of cracked pepper and apricot lending nuance to the dark berry fruit. The palate is richly textured, leading into a slightly warm, supple finish accented by licorice.
This is Wine Guerilla's most costly Zin and also their best, most Zinny one. It's textbook Dry Creek Valley. Dry, rich and high in alcohol but balanced, it offers waves of grilled wild berry, mocha, red licorice, raisin, cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, wrapped into gorgeous tannins.
This is winemaker Bill Fuller's 41st vintage, hence the designation. It's all Draper clone and spent 10 months in one-third new French oak. The opening aromas carry a volatile edge, then smooth out into fruit flavors of apple and pear. It's a good wine, but the impression of volatility does not entirely dissipate.
This is winemaker Rich Cushman's estate vineyard. At 25 years of age, it may well be the oldest Riesling planting in the region. The alcohol is just under 11%, but there is plenty of acid under the fruit, so despite its off-dry designation, this is a wine that would work wonderfully well with a wide variety of cheeses and appetizers. Flavors suggest pears and peaches, detailed with spice and stone.
This is winemaker Ross Cobb's own family project, from extremely cool sites along the Sonoma Coast, including the family's own Coastlands vineyard. Here, with Rice-Spivak, he skirts the edge of ripeness, producing a light, bright wine that's at first hard to penetrate. Faint notes of tart cherry and pomegranate weave through like a fog, a seasoning of allspice on the finish.
This is winemaker Simon Waghorn's entry-level wine under his own label, designed to give a taste of the “province” of Marlborough. So it's a medium-weight, multiregional blend featuring plenty of passion fruit and lime aromas and flavors, plus a fine line of acidity and a long finish.
This is wiry and exotic smelling, with strained berry aromas. It feels grabby and buttery, with dry oaky and berry flavors.
This is wonderfully aromatic and forward, with lush fruit-pie flavors of blackberry and black cherry. There are graceful notes sprinkled generously throughout, hinting at peppery herb and anise. At once smooth and supple, long and generous, this is drinking exceptionally well.
This is wonderfully complex and aromatic, with scents ranging from baking spices and savory beef to mixed berries. That swirl of seeming contradictions continues on the palate, backed by luxurious, supple tannins that linger softly on the finish. Drink now–2025.
This is wonderfully rich and dense, with dry and dusty tannins that float in the depths of the powerful black fruits, well integrated with the wood. This is impressive Malbec, showing its juicy qualities allied with its huge tannins. It could do with 3–4 years' aging.
This is wonderfully supple and approachable, light on the palate yet not lacking for flavor. Hints of violets and toast flame silky cherry fruit which glides easily through the long finish. Drink now–2018.
This is wood laden, with sweet fruit that compensates for the toastiness. The oak element should integrate well in the next 2–3 years, making for a wine that's soft and sweetly fruity, with smoky acidity.
This is woodsy, spicy and narrow in its delivery of berry aromas. The palate is lively and shows acidic pick up. Full, generous berry flavors fade quickly then finish with a wave of minty, medicinal wood character.
This is woody and creamy on the nose, with oak-based spice, balsamic and earth aromas. The palate is overflowing with tannins, such that things feel dry and clampy. Oaky flavors of maple, resin, molasses and mocha finish with roasted berry flavors and lasting grab. The blend is Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
This is Yalumba's flagship Viognier, barrel-fermented for an extra layer of richness. Fig, melon and apricot notes mark the nose and palate, and while it is fully ripe and weighty, it carries its alcohol well. Fruit intensity easily balances the oak, which remains almost invisible.
This is yeasty, bearing crisp flavors of pear and green apple, with a taut lemon-zest texture and a firm edge of minerality. It needs at least three years in bottle.
This is yet another dense, powerful single-vineyard wine from Artadi. The palate is pure silk and very ripe. Saturated blackberry, boysenberry, toast, chocolate and herbal flavors finish plump and smooth. This delicious, unctuous heavyweight from a hot year is made for early consumption; drink through 2019.
This is yet another plump, sweaty smelling Sauvignon Blanc from this producer. This vintage is fat in the mouth but kept alive by adequate young acidity. Salty, briny flavors of citrus, particularly grapefruit, end in similar briny fashion.
This is yet another stunning wine from this site, guided by the capable hands of Winemaker and Viticulturalist Bibiana González Rave, who has coaxed from it beguiling layers of complex concentration and sublime notions of tang and salt. The only white from a sea of Pinot Noir grown here, it speaks to what the extreme Sonoma Coast can bring to the variety—a celebration of lemon zest, crisp apple and brioche delicately wrapped in minerality.
This is yet another very good but not quite excellent Malbec from this winery. Solid berry aromas are edged by whiffs of green and horsehide. The palate is fresh, tight and a touch gritty in feel, with leathery red-berry flavors accented by earth and spice notes. This is solid and should be drunk now through 2015.
This is yet another wine from the Santa Carolina portfolio that shows vast improvement over previous vintages. The nose offers perfectly nice and easy raspberry and cherry aromas, and there's nothing off about the palate, which gives warm black cherry, plum and buttery flavors that morph into cocoa on the finish.
This is Yohan Lardy's top wine, produced from vines planted in 1903. Dark and dense although shot with acidity, the wine is firm and concentrated. It layers a floral character with minerality and black fruits. The wine needs to age further, so drink from 2018.
This is young for an Alvarinho. Its bright fruit needs time to fill out and open its ripe texture. The elements are there in this attractive wine, so just wait until 2018.
This is young of course, but the creamy richness makes it attractive even at this early stage. As it fills out, the more complex acidity and mineral texture will come forward. Drink now for the fruit, or wait until 2016 for a more complex wine.
This is young to release a Volnay, as this wine shows in its taste. It is almost shocking in its fresh acidity and red fruits, disclosing tannins and a drier side. Some juiciness will develop as the wine matures. Wait until 2017.
This is young, bold and fruity. It has black-cherry fruit that bursts from the glass giving a spicy character to the tannins and juicy acidity. The wine is ripe, full of delicious fruit and likely to be ready to drink from early 2017.
This is young, fresh, full and yeasty, with considerable richness. It shows the superlative quality of Charles Heidsieck as a Champagne producer. A dry Champagne, it is softened by richness, but the intensity and flavor and full green fruits promise great development.
This is young, quite sharp and still showing some rough edges. The fruit is crisp and pure, with well-defined flavors of raspberry and cherry candy. The tannins have a green tea, earthy quality, but some additional bottle age will help round them out.
This is your average California Chardonnay, oaky, creamy, soft and forward in tropical fruits, oranges and limes.
This is your basic California Chardonnay with oak, orange, Meyer lemon and papaya flavors. Produced without malolactic fermentation, the palate is vibrant with acidity.
This is your basic Napa Chardonnay, rich and opulent enough to accompany lobster, but not quite big league. It's somewhat soft, but with complex tropical fruit, pear, peach, buttered-toast, buttered-popcorn and vanilla flavors.
This is your basic Santa Barbara Pinot, dry in the finish and brisk in acidity, with a silky texture. The raspberry and cherry flavors have a green note of mint. Drink up.
This is your everyday Cab, dry and tannic, but with rich, ripe black currant and cassis flavors that lead to the long finish. Drink now, but you'll want to decant it for a few hours.
This is your quintessential New World Best Buy. The bouquet is full, slightly oaky and a touch burnt, and overall it's very nice. Same goes for the mouth, full of ripe berry and cassis flavors. It's medium to full in terms of weight and intensity, while the tannins create a chewy, masculine sensation.
This is your quintessential simple quaff among brut cavas. It's clean, lime-tinged and soda-like on the nose, with a correct, no-issues palate that pushes zesty apple along with sweet papaya, mango and banana flavors. It's slightly sweet and tropical, but still it holds onto its crisp qualities and dryness. No complaints for the money.
This is your typical inexpensive California Chardonnay. It's overtly fruity with orange, pineapple, vanilla bean and buttered toast flavors.
This is zesty and bright, bearing puckery pomegranate and red berry flavors, with an element of briny, umami-laden goodness that brings truffles and smoked nuts to mind. Soft tannins lead to a sour-cherry-flavored finish that's flecked with notes of herbs and dried leaves.
This is Zinfandel at its richest. Boysenberry, vanilla and maple syrup aromas meet up with jammy fruit flavors that coat the mouth and linger on the finish. For all its fullness, it stays balanced and dry. It does not feel heavy in texture nor heavily oaked.
This is Zinfandel at its unabashed best, bringing aromas of vanilla, spice, raspberry and cranberry. The palate holds nothing back—full bodied and rich. It's a heavy hitter but keeps its balance remarkably well.
This is zippy and refreshing, offering aromas of struck flint, pea shoots and grapefruit. For its abv, it's light on the palate, dancing with vibrant grass and citrus flavors and crisp acids.
This is, as always, a delicious wine. With intense green and yellow fruits that are both fresh and perfumed, it is ripe and rich. Refreshing acidity is balanced by rounded fruit flavors that carry through to the finish. Drink now.
This is, by the producer's own admission, the only varietal wine of its type in the Napa Valley, and it's 100% varietal to boot. Dried fruit and deli meat give it an Old-World edge that veers into prune-like overripeness to the uninitiated. It begs for food.
This is, quite simply, great Riesling. It has all the subtlety that the grape can produce, as well as a sense of longevity. There's an intensity of fruit—apples and citrus—that cuts through the texture, leaving a beautiful, lingering aftertaste. Still young, drink from 2016.
This isn't a big, powerful, long-aging Pinot Noir. It doesn't have the flash and pizazz of more famous and expensive bottlings. What it is, is an awfully good wine that shows Pinot's silky, spicy fruit qualities in a modest way. Like a great supporting actor, it will be happy to let the food take center stage.
This isn't a long-term ager, but do give it about a year in the bottle to let all of its parts meld together. Right now, it's tight and oaky. It features intense, bright pineapple, green apple and orange flavors, with sweet barrel influences and a tenuous streak of acidity.
This isn't a rich, knock-your-socks-off Chardonnay, but it is extremely elegant and tailored. Brisk with acidity and fine minerality, it's bone dry, with Asian pear and lime flavors. Call it Chablisian.
This isn't a very complex Merlot, but it is textbook if you're looking for soft fruitiness. It has oak-influenced cherry and blackberry flavors, with hints of violets and fruit tea, and is dry and dusty in tannins. Give it more concentration and it would be a star.
This isn't a wine to age. It's soft and appealing in its charms, offering drink-me-now cherries, red currants, herbs and sandalwood. The winemaker blended it with a little Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Verdot, which gives it structural and flavor complexities.
This isn't as big and burly as some Tavels, but it packs a lot of flavor into its medium-bodied frame. Crushed-stone sensations lead the way, followed up by ample fruit, which ranges from peach and melon to red plum. Drink through the end of 2017.
This isn't as big and ripe as some earlier vintages, but it's still a bold expression of Gimblett Gravels Syrah. Blueberry and blackberry fruit is framed by cedar and vanilla, but beyond the fruit lies considerable structure and aging potential. The tannins are ripe yet firm on the long finish. Drink 2015–2022.
This isn't Coonawarra's most elegant wine, but it certainly doesn't lack for character or concentration. Menthol, vanilla, cedar and cassis deliver plenty of flavor in this chunky, full-bodied Cabernet. Charred, mocha-like notes emerge on the long, intense finish. Drink now–2025.
This isn't Mondavi's most expensive Fumé (Sauvignon) Blanc. But it is one of their best ever. In fact, it's so classic, you could use it in a winemaking class to teach future vintners about how great Napa Sauvignon Blanc should taste. It's bone dry, brilliantly crisp with acidity and gently touched by oak. The main notes are of lees, which give a sourdough tang, and layers of lemons, limes, pink grapefruits, gooseberries and rich tropical fruits. An unbelievable value at this price, but only 1,975 cases were produced.
This isn't one of Merry Edwards' single-vineyard Pinots, but who cares? It's a magnificent effort, and a classic expression of Sonoma Coast in a good vintage. The wine is dry and tannic, yet lilting in the mouth, with flavors of raspberries, cherries, pomegranates and mushrooms. It's not an ager, but an elegant, sophisticated Pinot to drink now.
This isn't overly flashy or pungent on the nose, but does show some Sauvignon-like notes of green onion and white grapefruit. In the mouth, it's crisp and lean, with flavors of grapefruit and underripe pineapple that hint at wet stone on the finish. Drink now.
This isn't particularly complex or ageable, but it is a good example of a ripe Pinot for drinking now, at a fair price. It's slightly honeyed with toasty oak and raspberry jam flavors, and brightened with crisp acidity.
This isn't sweet, but just so wonderfully rich. It's the concentration of botrytis that makes the wine. The texture is velvet, but with a spicy bite to it. Apricot, honey and marzipan all contribute to a wine that will age over decades.
This isn't the best Ryan Calera has produced over the years. The wine is a little sweet and direct in cherry, raspberry, currant and cola flavors, and while the acids and tannins are just fine, it doesn't seem like it's going anywhere. Drink now.
This isn't the biggest or ripest Côtes du Rhône, but it balances hints of greenness with fresh cherry fruit. The floral notes on the nose are attractive, while the wine finishes firm and crisp.
This isn't the biggest, baddest Cabernet. Instead, it's more of a charmer—lithe and crisp. Cherries and dried herbs on the nose add hints of earth and pepper on the palate, then finish with a gentle wash of dusty tannins. Drink now–2018.
This isn't the greatest Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet ever, but it is a very fine wine, considering the cool vintage, and shows the winemaker's ability to play with the cards he was dealt. The wine is dry, with rich tannins framing blackberry, currant and cherry flavors with earthy hints of sage and tea. Drink now–2018.
This isn't the most complicated Pinot Noir, but it is a clean, easy-drinking wine. With raspberry and cherry flavors wrapped into a silky texture, it will be fine to drink with burgers.
This isn't the most powerful, impressive Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast, but it has a lot going for it. It's bone dry, crisply acidic and elegant on the palate, with a flavor of sour cherry candy that's savory and clean. Drink now.
This isn’t a rosé; it’s much too dark for that, as deeply colored as Pinot Noir. Oddly, there’s not much fruit in either the aroma or the flavor; it’s more of an earthy, watery quality. If you try, you can imagine strawberries, but it’s a stretch. This odd wine is very dry and has some decent acidity.
This Italian-inspired blend from Brutocao gets better every vintage. The 2005 contains Primitivo, Sangiovese, Dolcetto and Barbera. With a rich earthy, mushroomy, leathery quality to the cherry-blackberry fruit, it has a great balance of acids and tannins, and finishes bone dry. Ideal across a wide variety of foods.
This Italian blend of Friulano (90%) and Verduzzo opens with an off-gold color and thick aromas of ripe fruit, apricot, pineapple and candied fruit. Most of the wine's character seems to come from the hearty Verduzzo variety.
This Italian Chardonnay shows ripe tones of melon, peach and ripe tangerine. It feels easy and soft in the mouth and shows subtle fragrances of white mountain flower as well.
This Italian grape offers extremely consistent hallmarks, and this bottling upholds them with glee, starting with the strong orange blossom kick to the nose, enhanced by lime, honeydew, honeysuckle and slight chamomile. Then the sip is bone dry and extremely racy in texture, with laser-sharp flavors of lime and tangerine cream, leading into a zippy finish.
This Italian Malbec shows bright fruit flavors backed by drying mineral tones and bright cherry tones. The wine has grace and charm thanks to its streamlined build and its natural ability to pair with Mediterranean foods. Aged 12 months in oak, this is the estate's top wine.
This Italian Pinot Nero from the far north of the country shows an Old World style with smooth elegance, a garnet-amber color and rustic aromas of savory spice and cured meat. There's a pretty blast of freshness, with forest berry and fresh currant notes on the finish.
This Italian variety isn't widely grown in California, but judging from this bottling, it should be. It's a wonderfully versatile wine, dry and tart in acidity, and the citrus rind and white flower flavors are subtle but beautiful.
This Jadot is a combo of long-term contract vineyards and its Régnié Cru, demonstrating that knowing the terroir makes a difference. The blend shows well in this rich, full wine. It reveals ripeness—round and full of strawberry flavors from the 100% Gamay, with a tight layer of mineral acidity at the end.
This jammy wine doles out overripe plum and mature dark-berry fruit, layered with a melted chocolate sensation. Warm and evolved, it has an almost sugary-sweet palate that's shy on freshness.
This jammy, crowd-pleasing Zin is well put-together, soft in blackberry spice and has just a trace of wintergreen on the nose. Widely distributed and value-priced, it's a steal worth stocking up on.
This jammy, fruity offering tastes as though it were made from overripe fruit. Its light structure offers acidity and a Port-like character. Not for aging.
This jazzed-up wine has a slightly smoky, sawdust-like aroma and ripe, spicy oak flavors that taste almost sweet.
This Jean-Pierre and Philippe Rivière label benefits from the ripeness of the vintage to bring out red plum and a rich structure. The acidity and tannins perfectly emphasize the generous fruitiness. Drink from 2018.
This Jean Bererd wine comes from the village of Le Perreon in northern Beaujolais. It is a rich and fully structured wine with rich cherry fruits that are balanced with acidity. Hand-picked from an organic vineyard, the wine is ripe and full in the mouth. It should be drunk from 2016.
This joins the happily increasing ranks of Oregon Pinots under $20 that can successfully compete with entry-level bottles from New Zealand, California and Burgundy. Grounded in varietal character, it brings tart red fruits, berries, cherries and loamy earth into play; the acids are plentiful and the wine does not overreach. Flavors are true and lingering, with suggestions of gunmetal and iron ore adding interest to the finish.
This joint-venture has been turning out consistently charming, balanced Shiraz over the past few vintages. The 2007 is simultaneously peppery-spicy, floral-perfumed and meaty-savory. It's medium-bodied, with a lovely plump softness to its mouthfeel, yet not without spine. Drink it over the next 5-8 years.
This joint venture between Nicolas Jaboulet and the Perrin family continues to source high quality wines from the northern Rhône. This Saint-Joseph is a spicy, plummy wine, somewhat chunky on the palate while remaining reasonably light afoot and finishing with soft tannins. Drink now–2018.
This joint venture between Nicolas Jaboulet and the Perrin family is turning out some good examples from the Northern Rhône, like this Côte Rôtie, which is plummy, yet at the same time loaded with savory notes of cured meat and smoke, even a hint of bacon fat. Silky tannins frame the finish. Drink now–2017.
This joint venture between the Laughton (Jasper Hill) and Chapoutier families continues to impress. The 2010 is firmly built, with raspberry and boysenberry fruit notes supported by hints of mint and chocolate. The finish is long and dusty, tinged with mocha. It's approachable now, but should age well through 2020, at least.
This José Ferreira family project in the Douro Valley had its first vintage in 2007. This partially wood-aged wine is rich and full of black fruits. Fermentation in open lagars has given the wine a ripe character as well as dense tannins. The wine is concentrated and likely to age a little further, so drink from 2018.
This juicy all-Merlot bottling boasts blackberry and green peppercorn aromas. The firm palate doles out black currant, tobacco, clove and licorice flavors, framed by crunchy tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This juicy and simple blend of 40% Merlot with Syrah, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon offers chewy, dense tannins and a lingering spiciness of leather and tobacco.
This juicy blend of Gewürztraminer and Riesling sports a lush mix of melon, citrus, orange peel and grapefruit, with spicy highlights.
This juicy blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah opens with aromas of violet and red currant. Accents of ground white pepper and clove wrap around a core of black cherry while supple tannins give it a soft, easy-drinking texture.
This juicy coastal wine offers medium acidity and a lightness on the palate. It is a well-crafted, balanced effort, exuding wet stone, lemon zest, apple and white flower aromas and flavors.
This juicy cuvée is aged entirely in French oak, blending Mourvèdre with Syrah, Grenache and Cinsault to good effect. High acidity marks the palate, giving it freshness amid the earthiness of blueberry and leather.
This juicy middleweight is well-integrated in terms of oak and ripeness. Salty lime and pear interplay on the palate, finishing crisp and clean.
This juicy ready-to-drink wine is a counterpunch to those who believe Napa Cabernets are unapproachable in their early years. Black plum, blueberry juice and melted licorice aromas start the experience, then the palate picks up a peppery spice that gives depth to the black-currant and vanilla ripeness. The tannins are soft, if not weak, and the acidity is balanced.
This juicy red has a nose of cedar spice and prunes on the nose, and flavors of toasted nuts, plum and cherry on the palate. Overall, the wine has a more fruit-forward character than many Greek reds and will pair well with pizza, grilled meat or ripe cheeses.
This juicy red wine offers thick layers of black pepper and blueberry around sturdy oak. However, its opulent beginnings start to thin on the midpalate, veering into sour flavors and a touch of heat.
This juicy white opens with a blend of citrusy and grassy aromas. The mouthfeel is healthy and round, with good acidic cut. Flavors of lime, Granny Smith apple and green herb are fresh and correct, while the finish is clear and refreshing. Drink now before it begins to fade.
This juicy wine's considerable acidity gives freshness and a less pleasant lemon flavor that cuts into the ripe black currant fruit. Herbs and dry tannins at the end suggest an underripe character.
This juicy wine benefits from a special selection of fruit to give it an elegant and streamlined impact on the palate. The wine is redolent of forest fruit, cherry, spice and cola. It offers a polished and harmonious experience to the end.
This juicy wine boasts lemon aromas and bright citrusy acidity, resulting in a light, crisp and bright sip. It has a frest lilt, with an attractive zesty texture. Drink now.
This juicy wine conveys a ripe black cherry and lightly spicy character. It's all about the fruit, right up front and with a fresh, crisp aftertaste. Drink now.
This juicy wine feels substantial, with a concentrated palate of blueberry and blackberry fruit. It's got grip and detail, with threads of coffee grounds and smoke. It finishes with a hint of metallic earth. All is in balance, and the highlights are gently applied.
This juicy wine has attractive red fruits, perfumed tannins and lots of spicy wood flavors. Those characteristics make it already balanced and indicate a bright and fruity future. The wood gives the right density to the wine and the aftertaste adds freshness.
This juicy wine has red berry flavors and a sense of structure. Smoky with a firm tannic aftertaste, it has weight and a dark, dense aftertaste.
This juicy wine is full of ripe, open fruit that makes it drinkable when young. It offers spice as well as rounded strawberry fruits that have just enough acidity. Drink now.
This juicy wine is ripe with black fruits cut with acidity. A firm tannic core sustains this rich fruitiness, giving the wine enough structure to age further. Drink from 2018.
This juicy wine opens with intense violet, red-skinned berry and white pepper aromas. The savory palate delivers red cherry and cooking spice flavors while polished tannins provide support. It's made to be enjoyed young, so drink soon.
This juicy, delicious red features aromas of red berry, Mediterranean brush and aromatic herb. The easygoing palate doles out ripe blackberry, crushed Morello cherry, a charred note and a touch of baking spice alongside smooth, supple tannins. Enjoy soon to capture the succulent fruit.
This juicy, earthy wine already shows some maturity. It has leathery tannins as well as younger berry fruits that are still present. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, it has underlying dryness that gives shape to the ripe texture. Drink now.
This juicy, exuberant 100% Cabernet comes from one of Northern California's special spots for the variety. Given 20 months in French oak, 60% of it new, the wine offers vanilla, black cherry and clove around sizable tannins and medium acidity. It finishes soft.
This juicy, fruit-forward Pinot Noir has fresh and primary aromas of ripe blackberries and cherries. Intense cranberry acidity and hints of dark toast and spice add balance and elegance. It's unabashedly pleasant drinking, but structured enough to carry well over the next 3–5 years.
This juicy, fruit forward Grenache offers flavors of red plum, blueberries and licorice supported by notes of rosemary and roses in the background. Silky texture with ample tannin and acidity leads into a fairly long and nicely evolving finish. Excellent choice for red meat dishes. Imported by The Portfolio Group.
This juicy, fruity Beaujolais-style wine is instantly appealing. Its grape, raspberry and cherry flavors are highlighted with orange peel scents. It's definitely made to be drunk young.
This juicy, fruity while structured wine comes from the southern sector of the Médoc towards Bordeaux. It has a dry core of tannins surrounded by aromatic Cabernet spice and black currant fruit. Drink this still-developing wine from 2018.
This juicy, fruity wine also brings a firm structure to bear. It is rich, friendly and ready to drink soon. Keep for a few months for the tannins to fill out.
This juicy, fruity wine comes from an estate once owned by the Knights Templar. Full of red berry flavors and acidity, it has a light touch along with a layer of tannins and signs of wood aging. It's likely to age quickly. Drink now.
This juicy, fruity wine has a great backup of tannins. It has a smoky character, along with black currant fruit, lending an attractive balance. That fruit that will develop well. Drink from 2020.
This juicy, fruity wine has red berry fruit and gentle tannins. Although ripe, it's not rich but attractive and likely to age quickly. Drink from 2019.
This juicy, full-bodied blend holds several Bordeaux red varieties, with Cabernet Sauvignon dominant. Smooth and soft, it dances elegantly in clove, black currant and licorice, exhibiting both structure and weight. It finishes lengthy in more of that clove.
This juicy, medium-bodied Shiraz is filled with mouthwatering cherry-berry fruit. Some silky tannins provide structure, but this is much more about the here and now than any sort of cellaring. The fruit persists through the finish, joined by hints of herbs and bacon. Drink now–2020.
This juicy, medium-bodied wine offers a mix of crisp lemon meringue and richer notions of pear compote and biscotti. Grapes are sourced from a range of vineyards, including Saralee's.
This juicy, minerally blend is composed of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Merlot. The winery aims to source from cool vineyard sites and this bottling is true to that in style—elegant and balanced, subtle in tannins and aged in only 50% new oak. Bay leaf and mint come to the fore ahead of clove.
This juicy, ripe and rich wine has a sweet jammy background, giving concentration as well as good acidity and an open, ripe texture. Drink this already accessible wine from 2025.
This juicy, savory Rosso opens with a pretty fragrance of crushed violets, perfumed berries and sweet cake spices. The ripe, delicious palate doles out concentrated wild cherry, black raspberry and cinnamon-spice alongside supple tannins and fresh acidity. Bright orange fruit sensations signal the close.
This juicy, solid red offers aromas of scorched earth, mature berry, dark spice and a whiff of game. The chewy palate delivers ripe black cherry, raisin, star anise and clove alongside rounded tannins.
This juicy, wood-aged Pierre Lurton wine has very ripe fruit. That gives it richness with black-plum fruits and a dense texture. A bitter coffee flavor shows through the fruit. It needs time, so drink from 2018.
This jumps up and grabs you by the nose immediately, with bright scents of fresh raspberries and highlights of coffee grounds. A lively wine, with immaculate fruit, the concentrated flavors blend strawberries and raspberries, with supporting acids and just a nice touch of barrel flavors.
This just-released ten-year-old selection opens with inviting aromas of plum, leather, underbrush and tobacco. The approachable enveloping palate doles out mouthfuls of mature black cherry, grilled herb, cured meat, truffle and a hint of licorice framed in supple tannins. It has hit its ideal drinking window so enjoy soon.
This just off-dry bubbly marches to the beat of a different drummer. The underlying aromas are of lime, but there’s something strong and earthy that suggests dust, warm tree bark, or acrid honey. That penetrating flavor follows through in the mouth, where it turns a little sweet. But crisp acidity and good bubbles keep things balanced and cheerful.
This just off-dry rosé is crisp, packed with strawberry fruits and balanced in acidity. Made from the Padeiro grape, one of the many Vinho Verde red grapes, it is an attractive wine, finishing with a bright, light aftertaste.
This just off-dry wine is fresh, young and fruity. It leads with a lemony scent and crisp acidity that is partnered by a light prickle on the tongue. Drink now.
This kabinett possesses lovely balance, marrying sweet pineapple aspects with zesty citrus notes. The fruit is lush to the point of slightly covering the underlying minerality, but remains clean and racy on the finish.
This Kekfrankos (known more commonly in Austria as Blaufränkisch) layers tart, crisp blackberry and briar flavors with earthy, rustic notes of wet soil, barnyard and hay. Savory in style and brisk on the palate, it would be a wonderful accompaniment to wild game or fowl.
This kitchen-sink blend boasts a high percentage of Petit Verdot (38%), which may account for its dramatic floral aromatics. Aside from roses, cherries also play a role. In the mouth, complex floral-herbal elements have a solid underpinning of cherries and raspberries, finishing with just enough tannins to stand up to rare beef. —J.C.
This kitchen-sink blend is fruit forward with aromas of raspberry jam and plum along with pencil lead and vanilla accents. Flavors are sweet and generous, with a rounded feel and a lingering finish. It drinks best at a cool 62.
This kitchen-sink blend is made up of 67% Zinfandel, followed by 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and a small handful of Merlot. Aged in both French and American oak, less than half of it new, it's soft and quite tannic, with Zin's rightful spicy red fruit at its core.
This kitchen-sink blend of Merlot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Cabernet Franc proves more herbaceous than ripe on the nose, with dried and chopped oregano and thyme, wet slate and cigar box notes. It's all earth and stone on the palate, with just a touch of stark plum fruit emerging.
This kitchen-sink blend of red grape varieties is a shade high toned on the nose, with ripe, rich, black fruit aromas. The palate is deeply concentrated, with luscious black-cherry flavor sprinkled with dark spice and a layer of powdery, soft tannins. Finishes quite long.
This kitchen-sink blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah shows squashed black plum, caramelized blueberries, mocha and a sweet cedar touch on the nose. Toasty oak flavors carry the palate, with vanilla, brown sugar, beef char, baked blueberries and a touch of Vietnamese coffee.
This kitchen sink-style blend has aromas of baking spice, dark plum and herb. It drinks off dry, with smooth currant and plum flavors that linger.
This kitchen sink-style blend is made up of Cabernet Sauvignon (32%), Merlot (25%), Grenache (12%), Malbec (10%) and several other varieties. It's fruit forward, with aromas of raspberry jam, herbs and plum. Flavors are lightly sweet, with restrained but rich flavors and a light grip of tannins.
This kitchen sink-style blend shows a whiff of volatility along with notes of vanilla and cherry candy. The palate is full of sweet, plump fruit flavors that linger on the finish.
This kitchen sink blend combines 12 varieties, from Syrah and Malbec to Tinta Cao and Bastardo, and offers coffee, dark chocolate and beef char on the nose. More coffee arises on the palate along with blackberry, black cherry, unsweetened cocoa powder and vanilla.
This Kosher red blend from Bulgaria is comprised of 55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Rubin and 5% Mavrud. It has aromas of cranberry, pomegranate and dried Mediterranean herbs. It's flavored with black plum and dark cherry and presents the palate with a well-rounded, soft tannin finish.
This Kosher wine is darker in color than many Provence rosés. Made from organically grown grapes it has an earthy character that masks some of the fruit. The acidity and the sense of freshness are, however, all there.
This Krug vintage is showing some maturity, especially from its toast aroma. But certainly not too much maturity, because on the palate the fruit remains young at heart, a crisp burst of freshness coming through the more mature acidity. All the elements are in balance, making a finely shaped wine, which impresses as much from its elegance as from its richness.
This La Clape red, made from 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, is dark and herbal, with strong aromas of black berries and plum guts supporting the garrigue notes of lavender, thyme and bay leaf. More dark fruit unfolds in the mouth alongside sweet cigar spice and notes of bittersweet chocolate, almost like a spiced Black Forest cake. Big and hedonistic but silky and balanced; drink now–2014.
This label has had its ups and downs over the years. The 2010 Pinot Noir is one of the successes, and it boasts an effusive nose of roses, cherries, dusty earth and mocha. It's medium to full in the mouth, delivering cherry fruit and underpinnings of earth and spice. The finish is long, spicy and firm without being hard.
This label has turned a corner from its early days; the 2005 is a very nice wine with smooth, ripe berry aromas backed by black cherry, smoked meat, coffee and other savory, dark flavors. Structured and well put together, with medium-depth flavors and good balance.
This label is owned by Parxet, a cava producer, and it delivers a solid, youthful taste of Ribera. There's pepper and earth, and a little oak on the nose. Flavor-wise, it's loaded with snappy black cherry and plum. At first take it's simple and forward, but always tasty and ripe. And with airing a bit of complexity comes on.
This lacking wine smells vaguely like a scented candle. Jangled and citrusy on the palate, this tastes like flower water. An empty finish with nothing but acidity sends it away.
This lacks a bit of midpalate richness, but otherwise offers fine drinking. Clove, cinnamon and leather complexities keep the cherry flavors interesting, while the finish is clean and crisp. Drink now.
This lacks Pinot's velvety richness, substituting instead an irregular mouthfeel due in part to unripe, green tannins. Makes up for it with a wealth of raspberry and cherry jam flavors and a sweet oak note. Drink now.
This lacks the smooth and sensual mouthfeel that's normal for Merlot. Instead, this is sharp, with a green flavor. While it's properly dry, it lacks richness.
This lacks the underripe edge of Hunter Valley Semillon or the ripeness and breadth of Barossa Valley versions, so I guess you could say it expresses its Eden Valley terroir. That said, it's a bit neutral, with modest fig and citrus flavors that finish long and crisp.
This lacy, fine-tuned Grenache displays superb aromatics that are still a bit raw. One gets the feeling that as good as the juicy, young grape and berry flavors are, this wine has more complexity lurking below the surface. Berry, mineral and bright spices elevate the finish, much like a youthful Montsant.
This Lake County Sangiovese tastes slightly green and acidified at first before its bright, tight red cherry fruit makes its way through.
This Lake County Sauvignon Blanc from a Lodi-based producer shows off the North Coast appellation well, with pear compote and marshmallow on the nose, followed by a taste of apricot fuzz and oak, medium in body with a long-lasting finish.
This Lambrusco shows an extra touch of sophistication that sets it apart from most of the industrial stuff on the market. Dark berry and raspberries offer a linear and bright mouthfeel.
This landmark Italian wine continues to show the best of Tuscany, as it faithfully does year after year. The quality is obvious, thanks to rich notes of chocolate, black cherry and spice that are wrapped tight within a lush, soft and texture. The close is velvety and very long.
This lands on the sweet side of the corral, and has a good texture of tannins and acidity as well as oodles of grapy, blackberry jam flavors to complete the package. It's full bodied, rich in mouthfeel, and the ripe fruit character stays on the finish.
This large-production Zin has lots to like, beginning with the smooth, dry tannins and continuing through the classic flavors of black currants, briary forest berries and exotic spices. It contains some Petite Sirah, which gives it added body and depth. Drink now with barbecue, beef tacos and pepperoni pizza.
This large appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise can produce fruity wines like this. With red-berry fruits and light tannins, the wine has spice and crisp edge of acidity that comes from fruit that was just ripe, surprising in the rich 2015 vintage. The wine will be ready to drink from 2018.
This large estate on the slopes above the river Garonne has produced a Merlot-dominated wine. It is rich while already finely balanced. It has juicy red fruits with a solid dry core that promises aging. Drink this wine from 2019.
This largely neutral-smelling SB shows minor aromatic hints of pool chlorine and lemon rind. The palate is citrusy and generally well cut, with flavors of grapefruit, tangerine and tart apple that finish with a note of bitterness and green herbs.
This largely tannic wine clearly needs time to open in the glass or on the table. It initially shows herbal elements around a core of clove and black cherry. Well-made, it's structured and a good match for meals.
This larger-production wine is sourced from several single-vineyard sites, including Rodgers Creek, Sangiacomo and Gap's Crown. Together they find unity in fruit-forward flavors of blueberry, cherry and pomegranate, the oak persistent and powerful amidst a backdrop of tight-grained tannin. The concentration is pronounced.
This larger production offering from the respected producer is a testament to the benefit of sourcing from multiple sites. It showcases an interesting oyster shell note, as well as robust, caramelized oak. Honey and baked apple flavors lend richness and concentration.
This late-disgorged wine has been released at the age of 11 years. It's a beautiful wine, notable especially for the ultrafine feeling of the mousse, or bubbles. So refined and silky. Rich too are the flavors, in limes, strawberries, toasty lees and minerals. A spectacular sparkling wine that has many years of development ahead.
This late-harvest dessert wine is sweet and unctuous, with ripe aromas and flavors of peaches and nectarines drizzled with honey and dusted with sweet baking spice. The mouthfeel is thick and full, but lifted with enough acidity to keep it from feeling cloying on the close.
This late-harvest Gewürztraminer boasts hints of dried apricot on the nose to go along with scents of pineapple and spice. It's a gingery-peppery spice note that persists through the palate and onto the finish, joined by ripe pear flavors. Because it's not that sweet or concentrated, this would be a good candidate to pair with foie gras or cheese rather than a true dessert.
This late-harvest style wine has a rich amber color plus concentrated aromas of honey, toasted nuts and apricot. Sweet, mouthcoating flavors are nutty, spicy and long-lasting on the finish. Fortified for extra body and alcohol, the wine is super sweet.
This late-harvest Viognier looks like a still wine as it comes out of the bottle, exploding with honey and wildflowers on the nose. Its fruitiness is restrained somewhat and would stand out paired with a crème brûlée—though on its own, the alcohol is overpowering.
This late-harvest wine has hints of honeyed botrytis as well as apricot fruitiness, though it is far from cloyingly sweet. The texture is soft and mature, with good integration of the fruit and the botrytis character. Try it now with cheese or foie gras.
This late-harvest wine was frozen cryogenically and aged in neutral casks prior to bottling. It's mid-level sweet, with much higher alcohol than most such efforts. Candied pears come to mind, with residual phenolic bitterness in the finish.
This late-release GG is a stunning showcase of how just a few years of bottle age impact a dry, richly concentrated Riesling. Yellow peach and grapefruit tones shine brightly still, but are glazed by layers of slick, penetrating minerals. While moderate in alcohol, it feels dense and creamy on the palate. The finish meanders almost endlessly, punctuated playfully by strikes of lemon-lime acidity. It's singing now, but should improve till at least 2020.
This late-release has benefited from its time in bottle. Juicy and beguiling in red raspberry and black cherry fruit, it has a back layering of spicy cardamom and a sphere of acidity. Buoyant and memorable, it finishes with more spice and savory leather.
This late-release Riesling from Seneca Lake wafts with the delicate perfume of sweet peas, ripe stonefruits and a petrol undertone. Dry, but with a touch of white peach sweetness, refreshing lime juice flavors and a high toned acidity keep this wine refreshing and brisk.
This late-release Riesling is texturally fascinating with a rich, minerally palate bursting with white grapefruit and waxy, floral flavors. Slightly off-dry in style, it's deliciously creamy and slick with a lingering finish that's kissed with caramelized sugar.
This late-release wine from a Livermore stalwart smells spicy and exotically fruity, with herbal/menthol and cigar box accents. On the palate it is rich, generous, deep and broad-textured, lush in feel and full-bodied. The essence is like warm blackberry jam but without being sweet. All the goodness lingers on finish.
This late-release wine has distinctive, enticing aromas like cedar, mushrooms and cigar box. Along with mellow fruity, savory flavors, these contribute to a beautifully mature character. It is medium to full in body, very smooth in texture due to softened tannins, and lasting on the finish.
This late-released bottling is incredibly interesting. Connoisseurs will appreciate the bone-dry minerality and acidity, the subtle creaminess from lees aging and the citrusy flavors that just begin to suggest tropical fruit. It should continue to develop in the bottle for a few more years.
This late harvest dessert wine from Sardinia is made with native grape Nasco and a small amount of Malvasia di Cagliari. It has intense aromas of tangerine, honey and spice that carry over to the palate along with hazelnut. Velvety smooth yet fresh, it makes a perfect after dinner drink, or pair it with aged cheeses or fruit tarts.
This late harvest Sauvignon Blanc is honey gold in color, with tantalizing aromas of honeysuckle, white flowers and lanolin. It is generous on the palate, with flavors of apricot and tinned peaches supported by floral notes. Its sweetness is enhanced by a pleasing level of acidity on the finish.
This late harvest selection boasts ripe apricot, lychee, golden raisin, honeydew and baked apple fruit characters alongside glimmers of sweet spice, candied orange rind and raw honeycomb. It's full and deliciously weighty in the mouth, with a stunning ginger-infused lift to the long close.
This late harvest sweet wine has caramelized pineapple, beeswax and apricot aromas that carry over effortlessly to the palate. It's soft and silky in texture, with a delicately sweet finish.
This late harvest sweet wine leads with delicate lemon blossom, canned peach, ripe apricot and mandarin orange aromas. It delivers white peach and apricot flavors on the palate, which is velvety smooth, with a restrained level of acidity to offset the sweetness.
This late harvest wine from Hungary is comprised of Furmint, Hárslevelu and Muscat. It has aromas of acacia flower and pear, with flavors of apricot, pear juice and dried rosemary. The finish is pleasantly sweet without being too cloying.
This late harvest wine has enticing aromas of peach and apricot. A slight undertone of hay adds character. The flavors are similar yet lack in concentration.
This late harvest wine is soft with delicious creamed apple and light honey flavors. It's spicy and attractive to drink as an apéritif.
This late harvest wine is straw in color, with aromas of yellow peaches, white flowers and apricots. It's well balanced, with a pleasing level of acidity to offset the ripe, fruit-driven palate.
This late harvest wine reminds one of lemon grass, cut grass and honeysuckle. It is sweet with a good acid balance along with flavors of lemon meringue pie and lemon curd.
This late harvest wine shows both intense acidity and intense richness. Honey, perfumed lemon and ripe apple notes come together. Still young, it's going to need time for the acidity to soften, so wait to drink until 2020.
This late release is an unusual blend of Syrah, Baco Noir, Tempranillo and Dolcetto. All are strengths of the AVA, though rarely blended together. The extra bottle age has smoothed the rough edges, yielding a pleasant-drinking wine with flavors of strawberry preserves, citrus peel, and a touch of malt powder.
This late release is dry verging on astringent, with a tight shell of herb and stem. Inside a good core of tart fruit—cranberry and raspberry—still seems young and suggests that decanting and/or further bottle age will see this wine continue to improve.
This late release offers a good look at how the better Oregon white wines can improve with a few additional years in the bottle. Smooth and rich, it mixes pineapple, Asian pear and honeysuckle scents and flavors. Good verve and a light, pleasant hint of fresh herb.
This late release sourced from several vineyards dating back to the 1970s and 1980s is thin on the palate, with tart plum, herb, orange peel and of pineapple hints. Low alcohol reflects the cool vintage.
This late release, aging for five years, has produced a majestic wine. Its breadth of flavor, with ripe fruits as well as intense structure, are gently transitioning from the first flush of youth to a more mature character. Intensely textured, tight, ready to spring, it shows the beauty of maturing Riesling. Drink now, although it will age many more years.
This late release, from a single barrel the winery considers its best, is soft, light and simple. Tart red fruits carry a suggestion of tomato and a slight hint of toast. Drink up.
This latest Blanc de Blancs vintage from Roederer is well poised and balanced, already offering a hint of toast, while the minerality is prominent. It is in a dry style, relying on the ripe fruit to soften the impact of the acidity. A beautiful wine, ready to drink.
This latest bottling from the Jackson Family Wines' “Seeds of Empowerment” fundraising series shows woody, somewhat gamy aromas of animal hide alongside black cherry and sandalwood spice. The gamy quality extends to the sip, where dried meat meets red currant, cherries and a hint of fennel.
This latest incarnation of the famous brand is a superb wine. It is on par with, maybe even better than, the already legendary 2002. Its balance is impeccable: Apple and citrus flavors working with the tight minerality to give a textured yet fruity wine. Produced from Roederer's own vineyards which are mainly biodynamic, the wine has its own intense purity and crispness. It has amazing potential and is likely to age for many years. Drink from 2020.
This latest vintage of Falcoaria red is smooth and ripe while also structured. It has great tannins, a dense texture and layers of rich red fruits and acidity. The wood aging gives extra richness as well as spicing up the fruitiness. Drink from 2016.
This lavish wine boats fine winemaking. Its beautiful flavors of plump cherry, leather, chocolate and tobacco are backed by soft tannins and a rich, round mouthfeel. This should pair with meat or pasta.
This lavish yet regionally descriptive blend of 45% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot offers fresh-pressed blackberry, just-picked dill, graphite, tobacco ash and pencil lead on the nose. Dried-herb complexity shines on the palate, with swirling elements of oregano, bay leaf, thyme and tobacco layered across blackberry and blueberry fruit. There's the slightest barnyard touch too.
This lavishly oaked, opaque Zinfandel sports a dense nose of blackberry with pronounced toasty and menthol shadings. The mouthfeel is full and smooth, there's dark fruit and plenty of espresso, bitter chocolate and tar on the palate and finish, with tannins to lose on the back end. The wine may open up and the fruit ascend more in a year; lovers of heavy toast can eagerly drink it up now.
This LBV could be aged. It has a real youthful feel, and its ripe black-fruit flavors are full of complex sweetness and edged with tannins. It has weight, richness and a generous mouthfeel.
This LBV from the Bulas family vineyards, downriver from Pinhão is all ready to drink. It is fruity with just the right amount of structure. Fresh berry fruits are lifted by fine acidity and well integrated into the smooth, just tannic structure. Drink now.
This LBV has many of the structural hallmarks of a fine Vintage. The extra wood aging has smoothed the tannins to make a perfumed, ripe wine. Dried fruits mingle with red fruits and acidity to give a rich wine that is ready to drink.
This LBV Port is powered by jammy damson and plum fruits along with dried figs and a juicy aftertaste. The palate is dry, with tannins just in evidence, although the balance is just right. Drink now.
This leads off with aromas of mature black fruit, toasted oak, coffee bean and a whiff of balsamic herbs. The ripe palate delivers fleshy red cherry and black raspberry with layers of cocoa, espresso and sage alongside bracing tannins.
This leads off with unusual aromas of dried hay, red currant, dill and Mediterranean brush. The lively palate offers sour cherry, a touch of ground pepper and an herbaceous note alongside grippy tannins.
This leads with aromas of dark raspberries, toast and woodspice, seeming to still be in its shell. Flavors are high-octane, rich and sweet, with enough tannins to go the distance. It doesn't seem entirely integrated right now, but it will go up a notch or two if it comes together.
This leads with aromas of white and yellow flowers, while the palate offers grapefruit, lemon drop and a hint of ginger. It's simple but well made and very enjoyable.
This leads with aromas of white flower, toast and beeswax. The rather lean palate delivers yellow apple skin, citrus zest, a hint of roasted almond and a touch of vanilla alongside brisk acidity.
This leads with aromas suggesting freshly picked violet, toast, espresso, menthol and crushed herb. The vibrant palate delivers Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, coffee bean and licorice flavors in a frame of youthfully assertive tannins.
This leads with aromatic herb, wild berry and oak-driven spice notes. The tight, taut palate offers licorice, clove, baking spice, crushed sage and dried black cherry flavors but lacks fruit richness. It's framed by firm, close-grained tannins and vibrant acidity.
This leads with black-skinned berry, violet and eucalyptus aromas. The solid palate doles out blackberry jam, clove and black pepper notes alongside polished tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This leads with blue flower, camphor, crushed herb and red berry aromas. Firmly structured and linear, the palate delivers succulent red cherry, crushed strawberry, cinnamon and star anise flavors supported by a backbone of vibrant acidity and firm, refined tannins. Drink 2022–2032.
This leads with blue fruit aromas and follows with baking spice notes. The flavors are sweet, plump and undeniably appealing.
This leads with bright aromas of orange blossom, just-ripe red apple and firm nectarine. The medium-weight palate offers ample acidic lift that complements the apple and citrus flavors. Though the finish is short, it's clean, and the wine is just so easy to like and drink. Enjoy now.
This leads with clean yet soft scents of ripe apple, Anjoy pear and orange blossom. Those notes carry through to the medium-weight palate, well integrated with soft toasted-oak tones. It's harmonious and balanced, with ample acidity lending good lift through the close. Drink now.
This leads with delicate aromas of violet and woodland berry. On the lively palate, a touch of almond adds interest the red-berry core. It's easy drinking, with fresh acidity and a light, tannic frame. Enjoy soon.
This leads with forest floor, blue flower and black-skinned berry aromas while the structured, savory palate offers black cherry, red plum and Asian spice hints. Supple tannins and vibrant acidity provide easygoing support and freshness. Enjoy through 2021.
This leads with harsh, stunted aromas of earthy berry fruits and rubber. The palate is equally stunted and rough in feel, while tarry, gritty berry flavors finish drawing.
This leads with herb, vanilla and plum aromas, along with a reduced note of tire rubber. On the palate, sweet plum flavors are backed by gritty tannins, proving somewhat disjointed.
This leads with leesy flavors of melon and stone fruits, followed by mild citric acidity that drives the palate. Flavors of stone-fruit pits and nectarine are a touch bitter, while the finish is minerally, with a shot of lemon zest.
This leads with light baking spice and apple pie aromas. The palate is broad, with abundant vanilla flavors that suggest strong oak influence.
This leads with light raspberry, plum, vanilla and barrel spice aromas. The palate is lighter still, mixing fruit and barrel qualities in equal proportion and finishing on a baking spice note. The oak is a little intense.
This leads with lovely pink peony and carnation aromas, supported by a fruity blend of strawberry, nectarine and melon. The medium-weight palate offers ripe fruit flavors that are braced by ample acidity and a refreshing citrusy note on the close. Drink now.
This leads with menthol, new leather, exotic spice and balsamic notes. The concentrated palate offers dried black cherry, tobacco and star anise flavors set against firm, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity.
This leads with mocha, herb and leather aromas. The palate is still tight and closed but offers red berry, clove and sage hints with some air. Clenched tannins grip the close.
This leads with oak-derived aromas of sweet smoke, toast, vanilla and baking spice, immediately followed by notes of lemon custard, melon and pear flesh. The mouthfeel is round and full, but zippy acidity rescues the finish from feeling flat or overdone. An attractive toasted hazelnut flavor lingers well through the finish.
This leads with plum, vanilla, barrel spice and herb aromas. The palate is soft and velvety, keeping the vineyard's often burly tannins well in check and providing a lot of textural appeal. Cocoa notes linger on the finish, delivering a yum factor that is hard to ignore.
This leads with pretty fragrances of plum and black cherry, with hints of oak and vanilla. The palate is soft and round, offering dark fruit and chocolate flavors layered with cinnamon and nutmeg.
This leads with slightly honeyed notes of peach, melon and pear. Flavors of grilled apple skin, peach pit and beeswax unfold on the palate, finishing somewhat warm and toasty. Drink up.
This leads with subtle black plum and cooking spice scents. The simple palate shows clove, tobacco and blackberry flavors. Drink soon.
This leads with toast, oak, nut and balsam aromas. Those oak-driven notes follow through to the palate, which shows coconut and exotic spice notes but lacks fruit richness. Astringent, grainy tannins close the finish.
This leads with vanilla, ripe black-skinned berry and baking spice aromas. The firm palate delivers tobacco, licorice and black cherry jam flavors alongside chewy tannins. It finishes on an astringent note. Drink through 2019.
This leads with vibrant and fresh aromas, recalling cut grass, herbs, lime zest and citrus, with whiffs of tropical fruit. The palate brings tart, zingy, mouthwatering citrus flavors, with a lightly creamy feel on the finish.
This leads with violet, berry and chocolate aromas, followed by plum and black cherry flavors laced with hints of espresso. It's simply structured with fresh acidity and solid tannins.
This leads with violet, black-skinned berry and baking spice aromas while red cherry, raspberry and white pepper flavors mark the savory palate. Smooth tannins and bracing acidity provide balance. Enjoy through 2020.
This leads with wild berry, citrus and herbaceous tomato leaf aromas. It's vibrant and easygoing, with pink grapefruit, sour cherry and dried herb flavors. Zesty acidity gives it a bright, clean finish.
This leads with woodland berry, blue flower and dried herb aromas. The palate is rather closed and austere but eventually reveals cranberry, pomegranate and crushed mint flavors through its frame of tightly wound tannins and vibrant acidity. Give this a few more years to loosen up. Drink after 2021.
This leafy, Bordeaux-style Merlot is applealing for its moderate approach and emphasis on herbs and spice over oak and extraction. The wine is smooth and and round, with berry, cassis and herbal offsets. Classic Merlot from Chile, with just enough oak and fruit to rank as modern.
This lean and bracing wine offers raw cherry and powdered sage notes. Astringent, raspy tannins leave a dry finish.
This lean and very crisp wine has a light-yellow-gold color and aromas of white flowers. It feels dry and lean on the palate and shows green apple flavors and lots of acidity—just the thing when a light-bodied nervy wine is called for.
This lean red initially opens with a sulfur aroma that burns off to reveal steeped prune, dried violet and a hint of resin. The diluted, fleeting palate offers hints of black cherry and walnut skin.
This lean wine delivers oak sensations of espresso, vanilla, coffee bean and oak extract but the fruit has all dried up.
This lean wine focuses more on its stalky texture rather than fruit. It has some attractive perfumes and hints of red fruits that are subdued by the austere structure. Drink from 2017.
This lean wine has light melon and dried herb aromas, an almost neutral flavor profile and short finish.
This lean wine is high on acidity and structure. The fruit seems to be missing, needing more flesh to feel complete.
This lean wine lacks fruit to support the dry tannins. That probably comes from the extraction that has also caused some bitterness. It's a hard wine that needs time to soften.
This lean wine, all acidity and tannins, has a severe character that is not likely to go away. The estate has been handed down from mother to daughter for seven generations and now owned by enologist Marie Laure Latorre. It was named for the Merlot plot planted on 08/11/99, the date of the last total solar eclipse seen in France.
This lean, firmly tannic wine is more about structure than fruit. There is a burnt, chocolate- and bitter-coffee flavor that gives edge to the palate, while firm tannins enrobe black-cherry fruit. Drink from 2016.
This lean, racy red offers red cherry, citrus zest and raisin notes. Firm acidity contributes to its bone-dry finish.
This lean, simple white offers yellow flower, citrus zest and grilled herb flavors. It's bright, with a clean finish.
This leans a little green and soda-like on the nose, but it picks up clarity and speed on the palate, which carries a tangy, citric snap. It tastes of citrus and lees, and the finish is medium in length and healthy.
This least expensive of Sterling's latest Merlots stands up respectfully beside the winery's more expensive bottlings, which makes it a good buy. It's very dry, tannic and elegantly structured, with cherry and blackberry flavors enriched with sweet smoky oak.
This leathery, full-bodied red is rich with blueberry cobbler, coffee and smoked meat flavors. Soft and round in structure, it tastes robustly varietal.
This leathery, spicy wine is fully mature—perhaps too old. It has lost fruit certainly and gained a touch of cocoa along with the wood from barrel aging. It's not going to improve so drink now.
This Lebanese white starts with aromas of honey, peach and lemon, offering like flavors in a viscous blend on the palate. Some spice offers lift, but overall the wine has a richer character. A pretty, unfolding finish.
This leesy and creamy yet bracing wine reveals abundant melon, citrus and pear fruit flavors. Balance and finesse are on full display, as always the case in Luisa Ponzi's wines.
This leesy wine has a lot of vanilla on the nose and a tan color. It shows only modest intensity on the palate along with distant flavors of apple and melon. A soft finish says drink this immediately because it may not last long into 2014.
This leesy, bready, heavily toasted Brazilian sparkler offers heady vanilla and caramel notes on the nose. A round, plump, soda-like palate is home to toasty, leesy, lightly oxidized apple flavors that finish briny, bready and marginally fresh. Drink now.
This legendary bottling shows all the hallmarks of a young, vital Cabernet that needs plenty of time. It's classically balanced and rich in blackberries, currants and chocolate, with perhaps a bit more tannic structure than in the past, due to the cool vintage. Drink from 2018 and well beyond.
This legendary Madiran is, its fruit tannins just softened by wood aging. It's smoky, brooding, very concentrated, and worth aging for 10 years.
This lemon- and pear-flavored wine has an attractive, fresh fruitiness, tight acidity and a very crisp feeling. It is light and bright.
This lemon-flavored, perfumed wine has tight layers of young, fresh acidity. White fruits dominate this crisp but densely textured wine. A mineral element gives steeliness, although the aftertaste is more creamy and rounded.
This lemon-scented Riesling has a bright apple character and hints of peach. It is also delightfully fragrant, while the finish is bright.
This lesser-known vineyard is the source of at least two stupendous eisweins in 2009. This one features demerara syrup and ripe peaches imbued with an incredibly lush texture, yet balanced by bright acids and a slightly briny quality on the finish.
This Leyda SB opens with textbook cool-climate aromas of snap pea, passion fruit and lime. A tangy pointy acidic palate deals the usual Leyda flavor suspects: citrus, bell pepper and jalapeño. This is consistent on the finish, but short.
This library release kabinett is a rare opportunity to experience the remarkable evolutionary properties of Riesling at a relatively gentle price point. At 14 years of age, it's remarkably lush with stone fruit notes, but layered in swathes of caramel, saffron and dusty minerality. Drink now.
This light- to medium-bodied red wine doesn't take itself too seriously and will be versatile with food. The fruity, almost jammy and fresh aromas lead to dry, substantive flavors and a tempting, smooth texture.
This light- to medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc appears to aim at a minerally style, marrying hints of green (veggies?) with otherwise pleasant citrusy aromas and flavors. Grapefruit and anise make an appearance on the finish. Drink up.
This light- to medium-bodied Shiraz is crisp and tart, yet also shows some dried-fruit character on the finish.
This light- to medium-bodied sparkler is a blend of 77% Chardonnay and 23% Pinot Noir. It's from an area not known for bubbles, but makes for a crisp, refreshing drink. Toasty notes blend easily with modest citrus, finishing almost dry.
This light- to medium-bodied wine comes across as playful for its aromas of cotton candy and bubble gum. On the palate, it's still a bit confected, but is clean, dry and refreshing.
This light- to medium-bodied wine delivers well-integrated strawberry preserve flavors, along with hazelnut, malt and milk chocolate highlights. It's smooth and well proportioned, and should drink well through 2023.
This light- to medium-bodied wine features slightly vegetative notes of cherry tomato and tomato leaf, kept focused by tart acids. That crispness could serve it well as a foil to rich salmon dishes.
This light- to medium-bodied wine has a pleasantly silky texture. The fruit is tart and red, like cranberry or pomegranate, accented by hints of charred root veggies or wood. Drink now–2017.
This light- to medium-bodied wine is composed, restrained and balanced. Scents of struck flint and tomato leaf add a welcome edge, while delicate white-fruit notes play in the background.
This light- to medium-weight wine is drinkable now—try it with Coffin Bay oysters if you can—but should also age well for up to 15 years. Notes of citrus, lime and crushed stone are mouthwatering and refreshing.
This light-bodied and lightly sweet sparkling wine is light blue in color, has a very fruity flavor and rather soft mouthfeel despite the frothy bubbles.
This light-bodied bubbly has a pale copper color, spicy aromas, bright cherry and peach flavors and a slight touch of sweetness that makes the texture quite plush. It's sophisticated, complex and just plain delicious.
This light-bodied Chardonnay makes a nice break from rich, heavy, oaky versions. Aromas of dried thyme and parsley lead to pleasing fruit flavors of pear and peach. It has enough texture to fill the mouth and enough crispness to stay clean on the finish.
This light-bodied Merlot rosé is a summer delight. Hints of strawberry blossom and citrus mark the nose, while the palate features berry shadings set against a backdrop of citrus, something like a dry, adult version of pink lemonade.
This light-bodied Pinot has some good raspberry and cherry pie flavors, as well as bright acidity. Decant to let it breathe, and drink now.
This light-bodied red brings freshly sawed wood aromas over spiced cranberry and cherry. Driven by tart red fruit, the palate is lively with driving acidity, ending in a delicate, peppered finish.
This light-bodied Rhône-style blend is mostly Grenache and Mourvèdre. It's simple and easy to drink, with flavors of raspberries, cherries and spices. Give it a bit of a chill and pair it with a hamburger.
This light-bodied Rioja smells of cherry, plum and cotton candy. It's a bit thin on the palate but offers just enough body to be worthwhile. Mild plum and cherry flavors hollow out on the simple finish.
This light-bodied wine brings enjoyment at a very low price. Attractive grapefruit and dried herb aromas followed by citrus and savory flavors make it appetizing and enjoyable. It tastes dry, fairly crisp and well balanced.
This light-bodied wine from a cool vintage wine shows jammy raspberry with hints of leather on the nose. It may have already peaked.
This light-bodied wine has a pale pink Provençal color but quite a bit of fruit flavor. It feels soft on the palate and tastes lightly sweet.
This light-bodied wine has an earthy, peppery aroma and mild herb and plum flavors.
This light-bodied wine has aromas like dried herbs and fresh celery that join vivid citrus flavors for a fresh and lively character that makes the mouth water. The mouthfeels gains breadth with each sip and the finish seems lightly sweet.
This light-bodied wine has aromas like strawberries and maple syrup, and flavors that taste almost sweet. It makes a tempting, light and airy drink that's good for casual occasions.
This light-bodied wine has aromas of celery and citrus that lead to crisp flavors of fresh herbs and lemon. Good acidity is smoothed out by a hint of sweetness lending a soft effect to the midpalate and finish.
This light-bodied wine has aromas of grapefruit and prosciutto, flavors of melon and toasted almond, making it one of the most interesting and complex versions around. Its balance is good, its texture crisp and its finish lingering.
This light-bodied wine has honeydew melon and cucumber aromas, subtle fruit flavors and a smooth soft texture. It's easy to sip and is low in acidity.
This light-bodied wine has tempting herb, peach and flower aromas and bright citrus flavors, plus a crisp texture and clean finish. It's a mouth-watering, appetizing wine that will be great before dinner or with a light first course.
This light-bodied wine is a bit sweet and sugary, balanced by crisp apple flavors and a tangy touch of acidity. It's good and thirst-quenching.
This light-bodied wine is intriguing in its shocks of white pepper, rose-petal aroma and dark-cherry flavor. Well balanced and fresh, it shows a bite of sizable tannin midpalate that softens and is tamed on the finish.
This light-bodied wine is quite dry and nervy with acidity. Its fresh red cherry and cranberry flavors follow floral and black cherry aromas. Smoky-earthy complexity adds interest to its elegant personality.
This light-bodied wine is quite unusual, as it's a rosé made from Nebbiolo grapes. It has a pinkish-copper color, peachy aromas and Rainier cherry flavors on a smooth texture. It's not too high in acidity, has a fairly broad mouthfeel and a hint of sweetness.
This light-bodied wine is unfussy in its approach, with svelte notions of roses and lavender. Earthy black tea and cherry commingle nicely as the texture remains smoothly approachable.
This light-bodied wine made from Grenache has a deep pink color with a hint of orange, light cherry and raspberry aromas and a touch of spicy-earthy flavor among the fruit nuances. It feels very smooth and easy in the mouth and has a soft finish.
This light-bodied wine offers a fruity nose of cherry and raspberry and fresh flavors of strawberry, cherry and a touch of herbs. Balanced but with assertive style, the wine is perfect for spicy cuisine or burgers.
This light-bodied wine showcases the sometimes perfumed nature of Pinot Noir from Marlborough. Vanilla, cedar and mocha notes from oak maturation layer atop the delicate cherry fruit, finishing a bit dry. Drink it over the next few years, before the fruit fades.
This light-bodied wine shows citrus and green fruit touches. It has a soft aftertaste that makes it attractive and ready to drink.
This light-bodied wine sings in bright, citrus-laden overtones, with enough length and complexity to intrigue. Rocky minerality overlays lemon pith and a delightful crispness that makes for a food friendly, celebratory selection.
This light-bodied wine smells fresh and tastes refreshing. It has lemon and herb aromas, delicate citrus flavors, good acidity and a lively mouth-feel.
This light-bodied wine smells like honeydew melon and canteloupe and tastes almost sweet. The texture falls between bright and rich.
This light-bodied wine unfurls a strong aroma of bacon fat and salumi, while campfire smoke contributes weight and richness. Black tea and black cherry provide additional components of flavor.
This light-bodied, aromatic wine smells like roses and a bowl of fresh fruit. Flavors are lightly sweet and peachy, the texture tangy and the finish sugary.
This light-bodied, assertive Sauvignon Blanc exudes classic aromas and flavors of fresh herb and snap pea, helping it taste crisp, dry and true to type.
This light-bodied, Bordeaux-style red blend is tart red currant driven on the palate, with darker shades of black plum skin speckled with black pepper. Soft tannins and vibrant acidity make this an easy-drinking, enjoyable everyday red.
This light-bodied, dry wine smells fresh and fruity, tastes like crisp apples and honeydew melon, and has a soft texture that makes it easy to sip.
This light-bodied, high-acidity white is aromatic in briny citrus, veering on citrus peel and zest rather than the fresh fruit itself. It stays bright on the palate through the finish.
This light-bodied, lightly sweet wine has lemon and peach aromas, ripe and bright fruit flavors, a smooth texture and lingering finish.
This light-bodied, semidry Riesling from Traverse City's first urban winery offers an explosion of peach blossom, apricot and ripe pineapple on the nose and palate. A vein of lime zest creates tension from start to finish, making this well-balanced offering a perfect apéritif.
This light-bodied, surprisingly affordable wine surprises in its lightness of color and texture, its character driven by high-strung elements of pomegranate and tangerine. On the more savory side, expect nuances of earthy mint, bay leaf and white pepper.
This light-colored and easy-drinking wine offers bright cherry and tea aromas followed by raspberry/cranberry flavors on a crisp texture with good acidity and moderate tannins. It shows the leaner side of Pinot.
This light-colored and light-bodied wine combines an earthy, metallic aroma with mildly fruity, candied flavors. Its texture is mild and smooth.
This light-colored Cortese is an easy-going white that manages to be both very light and quite complex. The aromas of roasted peaches and apricots is lovely but low in intensity. The same can be said for the palate; complex and a touch dilute. The finish on this surprising, it has a real persistence to it.
This light-colored Godello smells mostly of oak and lees. The palate is dilute in feel, with yeasty flavors of banana and vanilla along with pithy bitterness and resiny oak. An overt candied sweetness takes over on the finish.
This light-colored rosado smells dusty but that's about it. Frankly, there's nothing happening on the nose. In the mouth, this is wet and basic, with dry, briny, citrus flavors that finish snappy but low on fruit and flavor.
This light-colored wine has a spicy character that points up the tannins as well as the red berry fruits. It has a light feeling, with refreshing acidity that shows strongly at the end. It's ready to drink.
This light-colored wine is attractively perfumed but with a grassy edge that suggests the fruit was underripe. Built for the short term, it will be ready from late 2017.
This light-colored, alert wine with melon and nectarine aromas is confident up front. Cleansing acidity is the driver of a juicy, tangy and lean palate. Crisp flavors of pie cherry, currant and rose water finish fresh.
This light-colored, almost clear, SB opens with pungent, fairly sharp aromas of sea brine and sweaty citrus fruits. In the mouth, this is tight, edgy and pointy due to blazing acidity. Citrus, bell pepper and green-herb flavors finish peppery and with scouring acidity.
This light-colored, soft and supple wine has a palate filled with red fruits. It's immediately drinkable, already showing signs of maturity.
This light-footed Riesling is restrained in fruit, offering subtle hints of lemon and pear, but its slightly chalky, dusty mineral tone is exhilarating. Its delicately semisweet, with a fresh tangerine finish.
This light-footed Sauvy is opens with attractive aromas of green melon, fresh-cut grass and lime leaf. The palate is bright and refreshing, with zippy acidity and a mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
This light-footed Viognier has a touch of the blossomy perfume and waxiness expected in the grape variety. Unusually zesty, however, it lacks the characteristic oiliness and denseness of palate. It's delicate in concentration but an easy, breezy sip. Drink now through 2018.
This light-fruited wine is the most widely available of the winery's Pinots. Its cherry and orange candy flavors give it a pleasant, albeit superficial, entry. Don't expect complexity, but for a light and accessible taste of the Willamette Valley, it's a fair value.
This light-hearted wine comes from a blend of the Gaillac native Duras grape with Syrah. It has raspberry fruitiness fresh with crisp acidity, and a light touch of tannin. Drink now.
This light-hued, coppery-tinged rosé features delicate aromas of crushed stone and stone fruit. It's medium bodied and crisp, with peach and melon fruit that finishes dry and refreshing. Drink now.
This light-orange-colored wine has quite a bit of red wine character, from the raspberry aromas to rather meaty grapey flavors, smooth texture and medium to full body.
This light-peach-colored wine brings appealing aromas of peppery spice, watermelon, citrus and herb. The flavors are dry and broad in feel, with a pleasing lick of acidity that keeps the interest high.
This light-pink Malbec smells dry, oaky and bereft of fruit. A plump palate feels a touch resiny from six months of American-oak aging, while this wine tastes vaguely of wood, vanilla, cherry Pixie stick and powdered sugar.
This light-tasting wine is a soft and easy sipper. A touch less bold than the last two vintages, it still has plenty of fresh fruits like apple and peach in the flavors, light to medium body and mild acidity.
This light-weight, easygoing wine offers subtle notes of red cherry, plum and currant on the nose and mouth. A hint of fresh mint adds a touch of interest to the nose. Drink now.
This light and approachable wine boasts easy notes of green apple, melon rind and a touch of hay. The mouth shows more citrus dominance, with a brisk lemon-lime character staying through the finish. Drink now.
This light and compact Barbaresco Riserva offers ethereal notes of spice, root beer, white berry and wet earth. There's a hint of clove, cinnamon and natural rubber as well and the wine is smooth, polished and firm on the close.
This light and compact Falanghina delivers notes of white flower, mineral, peach and pear. The delicate aromas add an elegant edge and the wine is zesty and bursting with yellow fruit in the mouth.
This light and earthy wine has plenty of fruit flavor and funky, spicy accents. Its light texture and soft tannins make it easy to sip.
This light and easy-going Valpolicella Classico opens with a light, lean mouthfeel and clean aromas of cherry and ripe raspberry. It's a perfect wine to serve with appetizers or bruschetta.
This light and easy Roussanne-dominant blend (with 10% Grenache Blanc and 5% Viognier) beams with bright notes of clementine, pineapple, guava and a touch of melon rind on the nose and palate. It's medium weight, with a direct but tasty palate and a medium-length finish. Drink now.
This light and fruity wine has 80% Baga in its blend. It is juicy, full of acidity and bright with red-berry fruitiness. The wine is immediately attractive and ready to drink.
This light and fruity wine has acidity sustaining the red-cherry flavors. It has a dry core along with really juicy flavors and soft tannins. Drink now, although the wine will be even fruitier from 2016.
This light and fruity wine has fresh acidity as well as lemon and ripe pear fruits. It is soft, smooth, and with a creamy texture, is very ready to drink.
This light and fruity wine is fresh with lemon and light minerality. It is ready to drink, with its bright acidity and pear and apple aftertaste.
This light and fruity wine offers fresh peach flavors, with a burst of lemon candy. It's off dry and finishes with a sugary kick.
This light and fruity wine offers soft tannins and an earthy character. The wine comes mainly from Beaujolais with 15% of Pinot Noir from the Mâcon region. Drink now.
This light and fruity wine, produced by a Burgundy negotiant, is full of bitter cherry crispness. It is ready to drink, offering acidity and a tight, bright aftertaste.
This light and herbal reserve has scents of pine needles and tart cherry. It spent 10 months in 25% new French oak, adding just a delicate hint of chocolate to the finish.
This light and pleasant rosé comes exclusively from estate-grown fruit. Cool fermented in stainless steel, it shows delicate strawberry flavors, and a finishing wash of mineral.
This light and pleasing wine smells like apples and pistachios, and tastes mildly fruity and nicely crisp.
This light and refreshing Sauvignon from northeast Italy opens with jasmine and floral aromas backed by citrus and stone fruit. Pair this wine with a fresh seafood salad or tuna sushi rolls.
This light and refreshing SB offers mild apple and citrus aromas, a snappy, citric palate and basic flavors of green apple and lime. As a whole, it's a cleansing but fairly standard wine.
This light and simple expression of Pinot Bianco (a grape capable of producing very sophisticated wines) opens with sweet candy aromas, soda or lemon drop. It offers a clean, crisp aftertaste and a streamlined style.
This light and well-made wine drinks easily and tastes just as clean and fresh as you would expect from this Oregon producer. It's crisp and inviting, with a solid structure revolving around green apple fruit and fine details of just-picked herbs.
This light blend of wines from across Provence is crisp but somewhat lacking in flavor. It has a light, bright aftertaste. Drink now.
This light but firm style of Pinot shows spicy, slightly herbal and oaky aromas. The palate is fresh and fruit-forward, with a medium body and enough concentration to create a lingering finish.
This light but vibrant and dry wine smells like fresh peaches, tastes like white raspberries and wakes up the mouth with crisp acidity. A floral character comes out with the second sip, and the mouthfeel seems to broaden and smooth on the finish.
This light Chablis is fresh and packed with attractive young fruitiness. It comes from the plateau above the Serein valley and shows its provenance in the cool-climate crispness. Drink now.
This light Chardonnay from Puglia has very little pulp and offers measured aromas of stone fruit, melon and honey. It tastes thin and watery and would make a good companion to light finger foods on an easy afternoon.
This light copper-colored, bright-tasting and dry wine made from Tannat grapes smells like watermelon and peaches, tastes fresh and lively and has a tangy texture. It was made in a serious style that will taste great with grilled seafood, gazpacho or tuna tartare.
This light crisp wine with its yeasty citrus aromas is juicy, fruity and with fine acidity. Its citrus fruits and touch of pepper have been filled out with the lees aging. The wine is ripe and ready now.
This light dry red-fruit dominated offering is 70% Morenillo and the rest Garnacha. With tomatoey and earthy red-fruit aromas and a well-formed juicy palate, this delivers a nice mix of spice, pepper, plum and berry flavors prior to a peppery, fresh, elegant finish. Drink through 2020.
This light expression of Grillo opens with a pungent almond aroma, followed by citrus and stone fruit notes. A light, lean mouthfeel gives this wine a bright, lively personality.
This light offering shows berry-cherry fruit and an herb note on the nose. The palate is even and dry with bing-cherry flavors, but an evident greenness keeps the wine from blossoming fully. Finishes dry, with a mildly astringent and slightly woody note.
This light pink rosé has aromas of lemongrass, mango and eucalyptus. On the palate there are strawberries and cream and raspberry. There is a slight touch of creaminess and roundness to the body with a crisp finish.
This light pink wine is warm, ripe and red-fruit flavored. It is soft and creamy with just the right amount of acidity. There's a refreshing, light aftertaste.
This light Pinot offers an elegant nose with tart cherry and leathery, earthy accents. It opens to a like palate, but the wine has an essentially lean, even sharp character, with rather high acidity for the thin fruit. Solid winemaking keeps the Pinot Noir character correct here, but the vintage's fruit essentially lacks the desired depth or ripeness.
This light refreshing wine spent 16 months in 20% new French oak. The pretty berry fruit is elegantly set in complementary acids, with a streak of blond tea threading through the finish.
This light rosé is scented with rosewater, melon and strawberry. Finished dry and nicely structured.
This light ruby-colored wine is made from Kadarka grapes. It has cherry and Mediterranean herb aromas and raspberry, baking spice and dried cherry flavors. It's balanced, with soft tannins and a fruity finish.
This light salmon-colored wine was made from 50% Syrah and 50% Grenache. It has enough flavor and textural richness to pair nicely with something as fatty as ribs or a hamburger, its peachy, melony aromas and ripe fruit flavors supported by ample acidity.
This light simple sparkler offers aromas and flavors of apple, pear and candied citrus zest. Bright acidity refreshes the finish.
This light soft wine is crisp and clean. It moves into the tropical-fruit spectrum of Sauvignon with its ripe mango and peach flavors. There is a fine tang of acidity to this easygoing wine. Drink now.
This light take on the variety shares a focused fruitiness of strawberry and raspberry flavor amid a core of earthy cola, bark and black licorice. Thick on the palate, it finishes with a swirl of brightness and lasting acidity.
This light to medium-bodied wine follows initially earthy and metallic aromas with decent plum flavors. The aroma clears up with time and the wine's soft texture and fruitiness peek through.
This light to medium-bodied wine offers lively fruit flavors like red cherries and raspberries. It has a crisp mouthfeel and and even balance between flavor, acidity and moderate tannins. It goes down easily.
This light to medium weight Cabernet has the right profile, but just doesn't seem to come alive. The nose shows blackberry and tobacco aromas and in the mouth there are dried black cherry and spice notes, but they never shine. A soflty dry, slightly woody finish closes the package.
This light Vermentino opens with a pale straw color, and it has lively aromas of citrus, kiwi, cut grass and mineral. A dose of refreshing acidity marks the finish.
This light wine feels bubbly in the mouth and slightly sweet. It has mild pear and apple flavors, a soft texture and short finish. Could be a good one to use as a substitute for Moscato.
This light wine has crisp raspberry fruits, and lively acidity. It is all fruit with only the lightest texture and very ready to drink now.
This light wine has red berry flavors and lots of acidity. With only the lightest texture, it's all about fruitiness. Drink now.
This light wine has vanilla flavors from wood aging, fresh red fruits and soft tannins. Acidity gives wine poise and an elegant touch. Drink from 2015.
This light wine is gently fruity and with the minimum of tannins. It is juicy with acidity and red-berry fruits. The partial wood aging has smoothed out the ripe blend of most of the major grapes of the Douro. Drink now.
This light wine offers attractive black currant fruitiness. Burnt tannins from the wood aging give it a bitter edge, although the aftertaste does bring back the freshness of the vintage.
This light, airy varietal Pedro Xímenez offers leesy, melony aromas. The palate has a creamy feel bolstered by acidic zip. Leesy, waxy flavors of lime, melon and apple finish long, with tropical leanings. Drink this dry PX now.
This light, bright and juicy wine from estate vineyards exalts in the goodness of red cherry and cola spice. Not fussy, the wine has medium body and acidity. It finishes clean and restrained on the palate, making for an easygoing quaff.
This light, bright and remarkably floral white from the Musqué clone impresses in its balance and lingering mouthfeel. Subtle flavors of nectarine and peach invite one in and become more pronounced in the glass over time, providing refreshment and elegance.
This light, bright and very fruity wine almost dances on the palate. Peach and apple skin flavors bring out a crisp, green acidity. A touch of minerality and texture give the wine character. Drink now.
This light, bright wine comes from the north of the Vinho Verde region. It has freshly squeezed lemon juice with a touch of lime zest as well as spice. The lightest prickle on the tongue gives the wine a final lift.
This light, clear wine is varietal in approach and silky texture, also offering a tension of high acidity, forest floor and nervy, cool-climate fruit. From a vineyard overlooking Freestone, it speaks to site and taste with classy effectiveness.
This light, cool-climate Pinot Noir is crisp with red currant fruit and herbal-tinged acidity. It has a zesty character that keeps it lively and tight. Drink now.
This light, crisp and fresh wine is dominated by attractive red currant and raspberry fruit flavors. A tangy texture adds interest and brightens up the aftertaste.
This light, crisp and fruity wine dances in the glass. With the acidity from Niellucciu very present, it's lively and bright, with a delicious final tang. Drink now.
This light, crisp sparkling wine is just off dry in style. It is perfumed and softly textured with a fresh mousse that offers attractive creaminess.
This light, easygoing Pinot Blanc is fruity with apples and white fruits, while gently creamy and balanced with some spice. The soft fruit and the bite of spice give some complexity at the end.
This light, elegant wine is perfumed like a rose garden, joined by lavender and dried herb. Its light take is supported by integrated tannin and a lurking tease of smoky meat and toasted oak that adds savoriness to its ethereal character.
This light, elegant wine is the introduction to the estate Pinots. At almost five years of age when reviewed, it is drinking in its prime, with precise flavors of strawberry pastry and a touch of nougat.
This light, elegant wine uses estate-grown fruit, and brings the same general character as the single vineyard offerings. Briary berry fruit, with pepper and spice, shows a more herbal aspect than the single vineyard wines. Sealed in screwcap, this wine may be enjoyed over the next 4–6 years.
This light, elegant, precisely crafted wine is a blend of both stainless and barrel-aged juice. Note the low alcohol, and yet how much texture and detail the wine displays. Green berry, apple and pear flavors are highlighted with cinnamon and brioche. This is the style of elegant Chardonnay that Oregon does so well.
This light, ethereal wine combines 53% Pinot Noir with 47% Chardonnay, the color dark as a light-bodied red. A thick, dense mouthfeel and gritty texture complements the brightness of cherry and raspberry.
This light, fresh-tasting sparkler tastes something like a still Riesling from the Mosel, with zesty lime and lemon zest flavors enlivened by bubbles and a bit of underlying minerality. Imported by Chapin Cellars, LLC.
This light, fresh and creamy wine balances cool acidity and bright citrus and apple-peel flavors. It is poised, fruity with a crisp, refreshing aftertaste.
This light, fresh and crisp wine presents cut-grass aromas and citrus flavors. It's a fragrant, bright wine ready for immediate drinking.
This light, fresh Chardonnay has lively pear and apple flavors. A crisp texture gives zing to the brightly fruity wine. Drink now.
This light, fresh wine, with its concentration on raspberry flavors, has lifted acidity and an edge of bitterness. The tannins are there, but relatively subdued, so it's likely to age quickly.
This light, fruity and fragrant white has a strong herbaceous character that is recognizably Sauvignon Blanc. It is crisp, clean, fresh and ready to drink.
This light, fruity and refreshing wine is made from organic grapes and pairs nicely with linguine and clams or pizza bianca. Although matured in French oak barrels, it's more delicate than usual, tasting of apples, baking spice and fresh lemon.
This light, fruity wine does have tannins that give dryness along with mature berry fruit. Dried fruitcake flavors dominate and the wine will not age further. Drink now.
This light, fruity wine is a perfect summer apéritif. With a crisp texture and attractive red fruit, it's lively and refreshing. Drink now.
This light, fruity, strawberry-flavored wine has good acidity, soft tannins and just a touch of softness from ripe fruit. It's ready to drink, but will be best from 2015.
This light, gently fruity wine has a soft, candied pear and apple flavor that is open, immediately accessible. The wine is ready to drink.
This light, lean beauty is a blend of three vineyards in the appellation, including two that are vineyard-designated by the producer in other wines. It highlights wild strawberry, blueberry and forest floor, all fresh, bright and velvety on the palate. The finish offers a taste of oak.
This light, lively and spicy wine has ginger and nutmeg flavors backed by a mineral texture and crisp, citrusy acidity. It's ready to drink.
This light, orangish-pink wine comes from a south-facing, 2,600-foot-high vineyard, and offers reserved aromas of barely ripe cantaloupe and cold steel. The palate is also quite reserved and dainty, with red grapefruit and cherry-tinged lemonade flavors and a decent amount of acidity.
This light, pleasant quaffer has apple, green melon and hint of pineapple in the mix. The barrel fermentation adds a dusting of toast as a welcome accent. This is not a particularly complex or powerful wine, but will quench your thirst admirably when you're up for something not too heavy.
This light, pleasant wine shows ripe strawberry, white pepper and dried herb notes. It was aged for 22 months in 10% new French oak.
This light, pretty, blended Pinot Noir trumps the winery's pricier cuvées in 2010. Strawberry candy fruit flavors are enhanced with light streaks of toast and baking spices, and hints of rose petals elevate the finish. A simple, delightful bottle for near term enjoyment.
This light, refreshing rosé mixes fresh strawberry fruit with apple-flavored acids. It's finished bone dry, with an almost dusty mouthfeel (in a good kind of way).
This light, very fresh wine shows crispness, citrus and grapefruit flavors and lively acidity. An easy to drink, low in alcohol, summer afternoon wine. Screwcap.
This lighter-bodied Mencía from Valdeorras shows exotic, minerally aromas of raspberry, blueberry and Middle Eastern spices. The palate runs crisp and fresh, but not real deep or intense. Flavors of raspberry, plum and schist finish dry and floral, with a touch of lasting oak.
This lighter-style Cab offers berry-fruit and black-tea flavors, and nut and oak finish. It's an easy quaffer, but nothing to mull over.
This lighter-style wine provides a break from your average California red and offers fruit flavors reminiscent of cranberries and dried cherries and a lean, lively texture with moderate tannins. It's medium bodied, not too ripe, and very well balanced to match with Italian food.
This lighter-style wine smells like baked apples and has a straightforward fruity flavor backed by crisp acidity. It's not oaky and has plenty of refreshing qualities without a big personality.
This lighter-styled, mature Rioja shows just a hint of brown at the edges. An initial light sweaty note blows off quickly, revealing appealing dried cherry, spice and wood aromas and flavors, and an elegant, balanced mouthfeel. Tannins are mostly resolved, drink now–2005. —M.M.
This lighter, fruit-forward Syrah from Abacela showcases the spicy, peppery side of the grape. These may be younger vines, or simply less ripe than the fruit that went into the other Syrah, but it is still a very attractive wine, with sweet raspberries, black pepper and rock. A fine balance of acid and tannin provides the right structure for near-term drinking.
This lighthearted and fragrant expression of Nebbiolo opens with playful notes of cherry cola, blueberry and dusty mineral that give the wine backbone and staying power. Pair it with lamb or pork chops.
This lightly aromatic Malbec has notes of plum and wood spice. The tannins are rustic and the flavors light.
This lightly aromatic offering of Viognier that doesn't appear entirely ripe, with notes of lemon curd and herbs. It's medium bodied, with a bitter streak that runs from head to tail.
This lightly aromatic wine conveys ripe red apple, pear, and star fruit. The fruit flavors are centered in a ball in the middle, offering plenty of appeal if not much complexity.
This lightly aromatic wine offers notes of butterscotch, peach and toasty spices. It's lighter in style with a creamy feel to the stone and tropical fruit flavors.
This lightly aromatic wine offers notes of herbs and kiwi. The flavors and acid seem dilute.
This lightly bodied, elegant wine is subtle and crisp—a study in white pepper and leather that's both complex and tightly layered. Cool climate to its core, it shows floral aromas and flavors of rose petal and lavender as hints of rhubarb and tart cherry make their way onto the quiet palate.
This lightly built wine is fully expressive, with floral aromas and bright layers of black cherry, peppery clove and toasted oak. Balanced and unhindered, it will work well at the table.
This lightly cloudy wine displays aromas of orange marmalade, candied pear and citrus peel. Honeyed dried apple and pear flavors display exquisite balance and length.
This lightly colored blend of Cabernet Franc and Gamay brings out an attractive perfumed character, red currant and wild strawberries. It is dry, feeling rich with acidity cutting straight through. Screwcap.
This lightly colored wine blends Grenache (43%), Syrah (32%) and Mourvèdre. It brings aromas of red raspberries, currant and flowers. The palate is fresh and lighter in style, with the emphasis on fruit.
This lightly colored wine displays high-toned aromas of dried herbs, dried flowers, cranberries and cherries. The flavors show a pleasing mixture of concentration and restraint with the Petit Verdot blended in (10%) adding some heft and dryness to the tannins.
This lightly colored, 100% varietal wine offers light notes of bubble gum, red fruit, cream and plum. The pillowy-soft, sumptuous mouthfeel is the star of the show, displaying a dazzling feel that leads to an elegant, lingering plum-filled finish.
This lightly colored, luminous 100% Schiava offers aromas of wild berry, pomegranate and violet. On the bright palate, notes of mandarin orange and almond accent the red cherry core. It's easy drinking and balanced with crisp acidity and silky, soft tannins. Drink soon.
This lightly colored, luminous wine conveys intense aromas of rose and woodland berry. The vibrant palate offers wild strawberry, crushed red cherry, orange zest and almond, which follow through to the lingering finish. Crisp acidity and supple tannins balance the juicy fruit flavors.
This lightly crafted, affordable red blends in smaller percentages of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah. It works as a soft, approachable and rounded experience of moderately tannic black cherry and cola, with a streak of black pepper, graphite and cedar mixed within.
This lightly fruity wine brings in layers of the freshest acidity before broadening out with citrus and green fruits. The wine is all about crisp, light fruitiness. A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault, it benefits from warm days and cool nights from vineyards at nearly 1,200 feet.
This lightly fruity wine hints at strawberry fruits laced with soft acidity. There is a bitterness in the background that is not pleasant.
This lightly herbal wine is crisp and has a tangy mineral character. It's tight, green and full of citrus fruits. The acidity is right up front, keeping the wine fresh and bright at the end.
This lightly oaked vineyard-designate wine effortlessly combines tart green apple and preserved lemon flavors, textured with stony minerality. Balanced and food-friendly, it offers power and concentration even as it finishes.
This lightly oaked wine is full of fruit, ripe with red berries and crisp with acidity, just hinting at Douro minerality. That makes for a balanced fruity wine that with its soft tannins is ready to drink.
This lightly oxidized Chard is powdery but not entirely fresh, as it shows aromas of pool water and mealy melon. The palate is chunky and just O.K. in feel, while fleshy flavors of melon and peach end briny and mildly bitter.
This lightly perfumed wine is crisp and clear. Apple and pear flavors are attractively packaged in fresh acidity and an orange-peel tang. The wine is still young, with its tight aftertaste, so wait until later in 2015 to drink.
This lightly perfumed wine is full bodied and packed with ripe quince and mango flavors. There is just a touch of pepper, which is balanced by the acidity and edgy texture. Give the wine a year to age further, or drink now. Screwcap.
This lightly pinkish-yellow blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay is yeasty at first, with aromas of nectarine and red apple quickly arising through the fervent, lavish foam. The palate is steely in texture, with flavors of light raspberry, red-apple skins and sour-plum rinds culminating in a bready finish.
This lightly pressed white version of an indigenous red grape is pale-straw in color, with a nose of lemon. It is slightly stiff on the palate, with flavors of lemon and peach and a refreshing, almost effervescent finish.
This lightly reductive wine has aromas of white peach, honeysuckle and the underside of a pineapple. It drinks medium sweet with tangerine flavors on the finish.
This lightly ripe wine shows slight reduction on the nose, which presents as toasted oak and salty brine. It's fresher on the palate, recalling green apple and melon.
This lightly sparkling Lambrusco delivers a deep purple color with aromas of wild grapes, forest berry and ripe black cherry. There's a sweet and slightly raw element to the mouthfeel.
This lightly sparkling Moscato delivers delicate aromas of bee's wax and flowers and a vibrant, sweet taste in the mouth. It has foamy, creamy bubbles that make it perfect with fruit salad or pound cake.
This lightly sparkling rosé opens with fragrant aromas of rose petal, candied cherry, honey and wild berry. As the label says, it scores an 8 on a sweetness scale of 1–10, with 10 being the highest.
This lightly sparkling, low-alcohol wine is off dry but with bracing acidity. It features a refreshing mix of apple, peach and citrus fruit, making it perfect as a chilled apéritif, or as a mixer for a wine punch or cocktail.
This lightly sparkling, terroir-driven wine is loaded with soul and finesse. It's ethereal and bone dry, with delicately alluring aromas and flavors of white spring flower, ripe apple, Bartlett pear, citrus and Alpine herb. Crisp acidity and a silky mousse provide balance and finesse while a mineral note energizes the focused finish. The sediment at the bottom of the bottle adds even more flavor to the last glass.
This lightly spritzy, sweet wine has the sort of orange flavor that recalls baby aspirin. There's an impression of artificality; the fruit does not come through with much freshness.
This lightly structured wine is all fruit. Its red berry flavors are already well integrated with the smoky tannins that form its core. It will, however, age quickly. Drink from 2019.
This lightly sweet and simple wine tastes straightforward, very fruity, soft in texture and light to medium in body.
This lightly sweet wine has an intense oaky, peppery, smoky aroma and the flavors come out the same way. The beefy, liquid-smoke character should match ribs in barbecue sauce.
This lightly sweet wine offers apples and cream and ripe apricot flavors. It is rich, but not obvious, the acidity and freshness just as important as the sweet fruit. It is clean, with a soft, ripe aftertaste.
This lightly volatile wine shows notes of cherry cola, dried fruit and woodspice. It doesn't drink entirely dry with the alcohol riding high on the medicine-cabinet flavors.
This lightly wood-aged wine is fruity and sophisticated. Great layers of green plums, apricots and pear-juice flavors are supported by delicate toast flavors. Fresh while still rich, it will be better from 2017.
This lightly wood-aged wine is rich, with an attractive acidity to go with the citrus and green-fruit flavors. A delicious tang gives lemon and orange-zest flavors and some minerality. Drink from mid-2017.
This lightly wood-aged wine is ripe in red-berry flavors. It is well structured, its tannins integrated into a broad, soft texture. Acidity and fruitiness dominate the finish.
This lightly wood-aged wine is ripe, with some firm tannins and a dense structure. It is full of red-berry and spice flavors that are underscored by the dry tannins. Drink this balanced wine now.
This lightly wood-aged wine is slightly austere in style, with plum and blackberry tones providing weight. Some tannins and acidity accompany its fine, fruity core, giving a more serious note to this wine. Drink from 2018.
This lightly wood-aged wine is soft and round in character. It has light spice and warm yellow fruits, as well as sliced apple and acidity to balance the fruitiness. Drink now.
This lightly wood-aged wine, from an estate that has only changed hands three times in 400 years, is crisp, tight and very young. It has fine potential for the future. There are elegant fruits, spice and intense acidity that needs to soften. Produced from selected high-altitude parcels, the wine is balanced between the tangy texture and mineral fruitiness. Drink from early 2018.
This lightly wood aged Douro blend is certainly rich, full of generous white stone fruit as well as melon. With its balancing acidity, the wine is both rich and crisp and will be better from 2017.
This lightweight Pinot Noir displays modest scents of cherries coupled with herbal elements, while in the mouth the cherries are tart, with a hint of green underripeness, and the wine lacks fleshiness. Pair with poultry or salmon.
This lightweight Pinot Noir features high-toned red-fruit aromas and flavors. Strawberry and red cherry notes dominate, but there are hints of coffee and nail polish as well. Drink now.
This lightweight red is on the herbal side, although with attractive bitter-cherry flavors and some fresh acidity.
This lightweight wine combines herbal notes reminiscent of tomato and celery leaves with hints of white grapefruit. Finishes just a bit short, with vaguely peppery notes.
This lightweight wine has almost neutral aromas, light banana cream-like flavors butter and a soft texture. It's a curious confection from a usually crisp and zingy varietal.
This lightweight wine is dominated by juicy red fruit. Fresh in character, it has bright acids and soft tannins. Not a wine for aging.
This lightweight wine is fresh and flavored with limes, pears and a hint of spice. It's edgy but also rounded, with mouthfilling fruit flavors and acidity playing an important supporting role.
This lightweight wine seems prematurely aged, with aromas and flavors of damp earth and cremini mushrooms. —J.C.
This lightweight Zin offers an interesting mix of spices, with hints of cocoa adding complexity to the finish.
This lightweight, silky-textured wine features scents of strawberries, tomatoes and campfire smoke. Those same elements appear on the palate, ending without much tannin. Drink up.
This likable blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is rounded and medium bodied. Red currant, cherry and vanilla cola flavors comprise the juicy palate, wrapped lightly in oak.
This likable wine has juicy and bright core, a mix of spicy cola-cherry and forest floor nested in firm, integrated tannins that works seamlessly on the palate. A full-bodied wine, it has power and grace.
This likable wine smells sweet and plummy. It tastes smooth, juicy and fruity, as red cherry and black-plum flavors spill over the palate. Pleasantly medium bodied, it's moderate in tannins.
This lime-flavored wine has a hint of steeliness to emphasize the structure. It's crisp and fruity, racy and edgy at the end with a dry, tight finish.
This limestone-reared wine aspires to be a Chardonnay leader in Chile, but so far its track record lags behind its desires. This version smells minerally like a multivitamin, but not fruity. A blocky palate is oily in texture, while this tastes briny and of sour citrus and stone fruits. A savory finish tastes oaky and muddled.
This limited-edition Pinot Gris was barrel-fermented and aged sur lie. It broadens out the palate and adds layers of buttered popcorn, caramel and toasted hazelnuts to the apple and pear fruit flavors.
This limited-edition wine has an extra dollop of tannin and full-bodied black cherry fruit. It's a bit blocky and veers toward simplicity.
This limited-production bottling shows its cool-climate origins in the high acidity and barely-ripened flavors of cherries and rhubarb that have a slightly green, minty edge. The Califa designation is the winery's reserve style. Significant oak has added smoky, spicy layers of interest, but the wine is still fairly austere, and meant for early drinking.
This limited-production Chardonnay has the scents and flavors of just-baked, well-buttered biscuits. The fruit is a mix of peaches and pears, but the barrel influences—fermentation was done in 20% new French oak—have not quite settled into a seamless whole. That raw edge should smooth out with further time in bottle.
This limited-production Syrah (3,200 bottles produced) spends 18 months in French and American oak, providing a sweet spice and chocolate backdrop to the wine's bright red berry aromas and flavors. Accents of foresty foliage and black pepper add additional complexity to the lush mouth. Drink now–2014.
This limited-production Viognier reflects the ripeness of the 2012 vintage. Immediately appealing, it coats the tongue with thick, peachy/tropical fruit flavors. A hint of saline cracker comes through as well. It's front-loaded, fruit-driven, and drinking at its prime.
This limited-production wine is a bit tough and awkward now, but may turn the corner in the cellar after 2009. It's softly dry and tannic, with herb-infused cherry and currant flavors.
This limited-production wine is complex and savory, and it features notes of beets, sous bois and cherries, layered with touches of creamy cocoa and coffee. It's on the full-bodied side of things, but it remains supple and shows great focus on the lengthy finish. Drink now and over the next few years.
This limited-production wine is still tight and not yet revealing its full potential. As it develops over the next few months, it will show its flavors of ripe red apples and an intense texture. The wine is full bodied while remaining crisp. Give it until 2017 before drinking.
This limited-production wine shows great structure appropriate for a wine that can age. It has a solid texture, full of rich cherry and black-plum fruits and a fresh line of acidity. The tannins give shape to the wine, which will certainly age. Drink from 2017.
This limited-production wine was fermented in a 500 liter French oak puncheon and put through full malolactic. The mouthfeel is creamy and the wine balanced, with buttery highlights around jicama and green-apple fruit. Despite the low alcohol, it's ripe enough to feel full bodied.
This limited-production, aged wine incorporates 8% Merlot, sourcing grapes from several vineyards across the Napa Valley. Blueberry pie and sweet tobacco rise to the fore around an elegantly crafted structure, while soft, firm tannins provide just enough grip to stay juicy and compelling on the palate. It finishes with notes of chocolate, caramel and baking spice.
This limited-release wine is a selection in the cellar from key parcels of this dramatic vineyard. With well-balanced spice and toast from 12 months in wood, it is richly endowed with dark fruits, rich black currants and black-plum flavors. The wine is full-bodied, rich and still packed with youthful fruitiness. Drink from 2019. If you go, hike up to their panoramic Casa Redonda at 1,800 feet.
This limited (250 case) production, Dijon-clone wine shows the ripe, bright flavor profile of the "new" Oregon Chardonnays. Oily and slightly hot, with opulent, assertive, high-toned aromas, it is a big wine that finishes with a burst of sweet vanilla.
This limited block selection comes from own-rooted vines planted in 1979. Full-fruited flavors combine into a fresh and lush mix of berries and cherries with a citrusy kick. There's a tropical punch sensibility combined with the texture and depth of a very fine Pinot. The tannins are polished and in perfect proportion.
This limited cuvée is essentially an Elton vineyard reserve, given extra (80%) new oak from selected blocks. Juicy black cherry and dark chocolate flavors combine, with lively acidity underscoring the moderately long finish.
This limited cuvée is made from the smallest block at the estate vineyard. It's entirely hand-farmed, with stem-driven savory notes around strawberry fruit. There's a sense of a slightly metallic minerality threading through, with drying tannins.
This limited edition wine from Passarella's original vineyard is wood-fermented, bringing out a creamy texture and the natural richness of the fruit. It's deliciously rich, laced with spiced apple and white stone fruit flavors, and will be ready to drink from 2018.
This limited offering, based upon a portion of 35-year-old vines, shows a chewy mix of red fruits that are rather bright and spicy. It's a bit reductive (and screwcaps can bring that out), with hints of plastic, that will need aggressive decanting.
This limited production blend of Arinto and Baga is tight, taut and creamy. Initial intense acidity is balanced by citrus fruits and a lively, bright mousse. The wine has an impressive depth of flavor, richly endowed with fruit, yeastiness and the ability to age further. Drink now, but better from 2018.
This limited production wine advances the proposition that Pinot Gris can be substantial, complex and at least as ageworthy as the better Oregon Chardonnays. The mix of melon, white peach and lemon zest flavors, with compelling minerality, may inspire some additional cellar time. Drink now through 2024.
This limited production wine comes in a fancy bottle with wax seal. It is a rich blend of Touriga Nacional along with Merlot, which smooths out the structure and gives the wine its intensity and dense texture. It is a ripe smoky wine, packed with juicy black fruits and flavors of the wood aging. Drink now.
This limited production wine is a selection of the estate's best barrels. It's packed with tannin, giving it a dusty texture. Underneath, black fruit pulsates with energy and richness. The wine is still developing and will drink best after 2020.
This limited release (300 cases), first-ever Zin from Columbia Crest points to the rising prominence of this quintessentially Californian grape. In Washington's Wahluke Slope, Zin ripens well without turning into a Port-like substance. Tightly-defined raspberry, blackberry and plum fruits, scented with violets and juicy with fresh acid, take to the new oak aging well. It's a balanced mix of berry, barrel and crisp, palate-cleansing acid.
This limited release Champagne has been aged on its lees in Gosset's cellars for a minimum of 15 years. While it does have some maturity and toasty character, its freshness is extraordinary. The crisp fruit is still there, evoking ripe apples with an almond- and spice-laced edge. It's ready to drink.
This limited release is big and flavorful upfront, with assertive aromas of sweet spice, clementine, tropical fruit and blanched almonds. A fleshy pear flavor leads the round, mouth-filling palate, followed by a lengthy finish laced with notes of hazelnut toast and sweet spice. Ready to drink now.
This limited release wine is complex, dense and structured on the palate. It offers a lively contrast between perfumed black fruit and structured tannins, which should integrate well with further aging. Drink this serious wine from 2017.
This limited reserve incorporates the best of 82 different lots, some done in stainless steel, some in neutral oak, and some in concrete eggs. Phenomenal concentration reveals a wine packed with powerful fruit flavors that cover the spectrum of citrus, apple, peach and pear. The luscious combination is supported with natural acidity and an underlying minerality. It's deep, long and satisfying, with the structure to age for decades.
This limited, two-barrel release from Jaxon makes a strong case for the quality of Southern Oregon Malbec. It's dark to the point of black, and the flavors continue to emphasize black cherry fruit, along with dark chocolate, roasted coffee and clean earth. Tannic and chewy, it is a solid choice for anything grilled.
This Limnio, Mavrotragano and Mavroud blend is fun and fruity but at the same time, offers some serious character. Smoked sausage, fennel and clove on the nose lead into flavors of vanilla, red fruit and savory spice on the palate. Balanced, with good tannic and acidic structure. Ageable.
This linear blend of Sangiovese and 15% Colorino, Canaiolo and Mammolo opens with a subtle fragrance of violet, red berry and licorice. The focused palate offers dried plum, ripe black cherry, leather and grilled herb alongside fine-grained tannins.
This linear red has attractive aromas of fragrant blue flower, red berry and chopped herb. The taut medium-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, red currant, white pepper and a note of dried sage alongside fine-grained tannins and bright acidity.
This linear red offers savory fruit flavors of ripe wild cherry, juicy strawberry, toast, white pepper and a hint of grilled herb. Fine-grained, drying tannins provide support. Drink after 2018.
This linear white opens with aromas of crisp green apple, white pepper and Alpine wild flower that carry over to the bright palate along with juicy citrus notes. It's nicely balanced, with lively acidity that leaves the mouth feeling fresh and clean.
This linear white opens with aromas suggesting gooseberry elderflower, Alpine herb and citrus. The tangy palate offers grapefruit, honeydew melon and white stone fruit while a mineral note adds depth.
This linear white opens with delicate aromas that recall citrus blossom, citrus peel and orchard fruit. The racy palate offers green Anjou pear, lime and a note of bitter almond alongside a backbone of firm acidity.
This linear white presents varietal aromas of tropical fruit, cut grass and crushed tomato vine. The bright, juicy palate offers green melon and white peach alongside zesty acidity that gives it a clean finish.
This linear wine's neutral aromas vaguely resemble peach and peach pit. Its yeasty, leesy, oxidized white fruit and white bread flavors finish on a melony note but with little intensity.
This linear wine opens with aromas of blue flower, underbrush and red berries. The palate delivers bright red cherry, espresso and a white pepper note alongside firm, drying tannins. Pair this with hearty Tuscan soups. Drink 2014–2019.
This linear wine opens with aromas that recall stone fruit, apple and pineapple. The bright palate delivers white peach, grapefruit, citrus and mineral notes alongside fresh acidity. It has a crisp, clean finish.
This linear wine opens with aromas that suggest tomato vine, white spring flower and yellow grapefruit that carry over to the crisp palate along with a hint of zesty lemon peel. Racy acidity adds even more verve.
This linear, mineral-driven white opens with intriguing sea breeze, herb and field flower scents. The elegant palate offers citrus zest, yellow stone fruit and toasted almond flavors, alongside fresh acidity.
This lip-smackingly complex, pure varietal wine from a prime Napa Valley location is awash in floral chewing tobacco and roasted coffee aromas. These expand on the palate into cedar and black currant, remaining softly alluring through a base of power. Decant or cellar through 2020–2022.
This little-known grape from the Campania region of southern Italy boasts many nutty, almost pine-like aromas over melon, peach and pear. Medium intensity and freshness characterize the mouth and suggest a pairing with simple grilled fish or vegetables.
This little brother to vino Nobile embodies the essence of ripe, lip-smacking country wine. But it's no piece of candy; quite the contrary, it's full, rustic and fruit-forward. If elegance isn't the game here, then the big plum flavor and meaty, berry-loaded finish is.
This little gem is sourced entirely from the Klipsun Vineyard, and it's the sort of wine that will wake up the sleepiest palate. A mass of fig, honeycomb, lemon rind and pith, it has wonderful focus, balance, length and concentration.
This lively and flavorful wine has a light copper color, lean and fresh cherry and plum flavors, a rich mousse of bubbles and clean, tangy finish. It's a great example of a rosé that doesn't overdo it.
This lively Barbaresco is distinguished by a drying mineral note that recalls black slate or graphite. Aromas of Spanish cedar, root beer and licorice are followed by dark fruit and plum. The wine is controlled, compact and tight in the mouth and it's almost ready to drink. Drink after 2012.
This lively Barbera d'Asti offers great integrity of fruit with pristine aromas of cherry, blueberry, tart raspberry and a touch of spice. The wine is smooth, crisp and closes with medium persistency.
This lively bright blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc is crisp and herbal with gooseberry and citrus flavors. It is taut, tangy and packed with fruit. Drink now.
This lively fresh wine brings out the fruitiness of the blend rather than the tannins of the Syrah and Merlot. Citrus and red berry flavors are well integrated with the crisp acidity. Drink now.
This lively Merlot from Coastal Tuscany conveys aromas of blackberry, spice and a whiff of underbrush. The juicy palate offers crushed black cherry, red currant and a note of white pepper alongside soft tannins. Enjoy it soon to capture the fresh fruit sensations.
This lively Pinot Grigio from northern Italy has green apple, ripe pear and citrus sensations alongside fresh acidity. Sip as an apéritif or pair it with summer salads.
This lively red opens with aromas of wild berry, blue flower and a whiff of tilled soil. The vibrant, straightforward palate offers juicy red cherry, strawberry and a hint of nutmeg alongside sleek tannins and racy acidity. It's made to be drunk young so enjoy soon.
This lively Riesling offers aromas of citrus, apricot and honey, followed by layers of white fruit, spice and pepper. The wine has a slightly sweet fruity character but it's balanced by acid and minerals. A fun but impressive Riesling.
This lively Ripasso opens with distinctive notes of spice, clove and dried tobacco. There is ripe fruit here, mostly plum and prune, and the wine ends with a spicy blast of flavor.
This lively sparkler has played an important role in making Prosecco one of the most popular wines in the United States. Its a textbook rendition, with peach nectar, tangerine and a soft, creamy finish.
This lively Vino Nobile hits all the right chords. The wine is vibrant and fresh but it's sophisticated and complex at the same time. Fruit-forward aromas include succulent cherry, white almond and sweet spice. The structure is firm, smooth but powerful.
This lively white features aromas of tropical fruit, citrus and white flower.s The bright, round palate doles out fresh peach, juicy pineapple and crisp apple alongside zesty acidity.
This lively white is floral in honeysuckle aromas, while creamy, rounded layers of apricot play on the full-bodied palate. A spicy nutmeg chaser closes things out. Well balanced and accessible, this is ready to drink now.
This lively white offers aromas of fragrant white flower, orchard fruit and crushed stone. The vibrant, linear palate delivers Anjou pear, citrus and an almond note alongside firm acidity.
This lively white opens with aromas of grapefruit, light oak and crushed rock. On the racy palate, zesty acidity underscores yellow peach, citrus zest, ginger and a hint of vanilla. A hint of mineral marks the finish.
This lively white opens with aromas of peach blossom, crushed stone and whiff of toasted nut while the linear palate shows yellow peach, lemon zest and vibrant acidity. A mineral note closes the finish.
This lively white opens with aromas suggesting lemon blossom, orchard fruit, stone and citrus. On the invigorating palate, bracing acidity lifts yellow apple, nectarine and flinty mineral. It finishes on a tangy note.
This lively white shows a spritz on the tongue. It's crisp without being sharp, and the citrus notes here tend to orange and they complement tasty stone fruit and floral elements. Finishes clean and light, a great choice for any seafood, any warm evening. —M.M.
This lively white, made with the native grape Assyrtiko, starts with a big, citrusy nose, followed by more complex flavors of citrus, flowers and spice. Rich and warm, the wine still has an underbelly of dancing acidity that keeps it food friendly. An elegant wine with a lingering floral finish.
This lively wine comes from the Clarence Dillon group (Château Haut-Brion). It offers good balance between the considerable acidity and the red-berry fruit. With its spicy background, the wine is delicious to drink now.
This lively wine is crisp, fresh and deliciously fruity. It is packed with juicy, fragrant acidity and wild strawberry fruit flavors.
This lively wine is fresh and bright on the nose, but not simple at all, with aromas of plump raspberry, pomegranate, rose petals, hibiscus and a hint of eucalyptus on the edge. It has tons of verve and pin-pricking acidity on the palate, where just-cut pomegranate, alpine strawberry and chopped thyme thrive.
This lively wine is loaded with sensations of spring wildflowers, tart green apple, pear and nectarine. Crisp acidity gives a refreshing finish. Enjoy this as an apéritif or pair it with summer salads.
This lively wine is sourced from the excellent Boushey vineyard in Washington's Yakima valley. The deep blackberry fruit is ripe and tasty; and the tannins nicely smoothed out with a dusty, chocolaty finish.
This lively wine revels in its red fruits. It is tight, tangy and packed with fresh flavors, with just the right amount of weight and dryness to put it firmly on the table with food.
This lively wine starts with aromas of white fruit, citrus and flowers. Ion the palate, exotic guava and pineapple and lemon mingle. An easygoing wine great for everyday enjoyment.
This lively, 100% Sauvignon Blanc sports fresh flavors of grapefruit, lemon meringue and quinine—much like a cool-climate Viognier. Racy and fresh, it was mostly stainless-steel fermented, and is young enough to capture a bit of spritz in the mouthfeel.
This lively, bouncing wine comes straight at you with its fruit and light, easy texture. Juicy red currant and pineapple flavors give it a clean, clear character. It's a fine apéritif style.
This lively, citrus-driven wine has tight acidity over bright grapefruit and lime, giving refreshing crispness. Immediately attractive, it offers an aftertaste that shines with lemon juice.
This lively, crisp and tantalizing wine emphasizes fresh green apple aromas, vivid citrus flavors of lemon and grapefruit, and a rather full body from energetic bubbles. An attractively tart mouthfeel turns creamier with each sip. It does just what a brut style is supposed to in terms of refreshment and lip-smacking flavors.
This lively, crisp wine comes from a less than an acre of organically grown vines. It has big lemon and green-apple flavors as well as intense acidity that gives a juicy character. With its youthful freshness, it could do with a few more months to soften. Drink from 2017.
This lively, crisp wine gives both intense acidity and great fruitiness. It's bright, with a line of fresh red currant flavors that are delicious and drinkable right now.
This lively, crisply acidic wine hints at toast, but goes much more for a delicious citrus character. There's a great freshness to the wine, showing some pear flavors and a fine edge of apple skins.
This lively, elegant white, made with 100% Trebbiano, opens with heady scents of white spring flower and orchard fruit. The vibrant, linear palate delivers white peach, crunchy pear, tangerine and a mineral note. Racy acidity provides balance and generates a crisp, clean finish.
This lively, fruity wine has fine acidity that's smoothed by creamy pear and green plum flavors. There is a touch of sweetness—perhaps some residual sugar—from grapes that were harvested when very ripe. Drink over the next few months.
This lively, fruity wine has soft apple flavors and refreshing acidity. A zesty backdrop to the fruitiness gives a light texture. The wine, which comes from one of the cooler regions of Alentejo, is ready to drink.
This lively, fruity wine is simple in character but full of grapefruit and lemon crispness. It is softly textured, but has a final bite of lemon zest and tight acidity.
This lively, lightly herbal blend includes Cabernet Sauvignon and white Vermentino. It pivots deftly on a texture that is mineral, crisp, and contrasting with the red fruits. It is ready to drink.
This lively, medium-bodied and well-balanced wine smells of raspberries and dried herbs. It tastes invitingly fresh, combining bright fruit with earthy and savory accents. The color is relatively light, matching the overall tangy personality.
This lively, muscular, full-bodied wine ripples with smoky, meaty, peppery aromas. A thick, almost chewy texture partners with rowdy blackberry flavors and vivid tannins that will tame the rarest steak or wildest game.
This lively, raspberry- and red-currant-flavored wine has just the right tang of acidity to create its crisp feel. Fruity and fragrant, it features a touch of minerality to add further texture.
This lively, vibrantly young sipper kicks off with generous aromas of pineapple sherbet and peach brioche. A racy energy dominates the bright palate, with crisp pear fruit, lime juice tang and white rock minerality. An excellent partner for oysters or sashimi, but drink now, for the lovely energy may quickly evaporate.
This Livermore-based producer continues to impress with a range of Spanish, Italian and Portuguese whites. This Verdelho no exception, a grape that in Europe makes its way into Madeira. This Lodi-sourced version is a rich white with layers of texture on the diesel, flint and gravelly side of things with plenty of acidity, kiwi notes and a long finish.
This Livermore producer has sourced from Livermore and Amador County—both Portuguese varieties and Cabernet Sauvignon—to make this Port-style wine, a mouthful of caramel toffee melted and toasty. A hint of marshmallow's there too.
This Livermore Valley Merlot has a smooth, seductive aroma of cinnamon spice and clove upon opening, followed by rich notes of dark velvety plum. Long on the finish, it's a classically mannered California Merlot ready for the dinner table or to sip on its own.
This Livermore Valley producer travels to Lodi to make this Zin, a smattering of 4% Petite Sirah blended in. Intense in cherry-watermelon candy aromas, its flavors develop into tart cherry, blueberry and spice. With soft tannins this wine is straightforward, with the finish all about dusty cigars.
This local grape, only found in the Douro, gives a crisp, green and citrus flavored wine. It is tight, tangy and full of acidity with an orange zest aftertaste. The wine is all fruit, ready to drink now.
This Lodi-based producer shows skill in handling Carneros-grown fruit, putting together a medium-bodied, deliciously earthy wine. It's leathery in texture and exuberant in cardamom, strawberry and burnt orange flavors.
This Lodi-grown blend of 65% Chardonnay, 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Viognier smells of marshmallow, coconut and bubble gum.
This Lodi area Pinot Noir is fruit forward, particularly on the nose, though the lucious notes carry through on the palate as well, buoyed by oak.
This Lodi Cabernet is priced to sell, but it has a sweltering swath of green pepper.
This Lodi wine has a whirl of smoky, oaky flavors, plus a not entirely pleasant green tinge to its finish.
This Loess is definitely more—more concentration, more ripeness, more Côte Rôtie character than the 2005, but already showing dramatic flavor development. Cofermented with 3% Viognier, it's a silky wine with flavors of blood, meat and earth dominating. Tannins are ripe, and it was barreled in second-fill oak, preserving the natural flavors of the vineyard. Clearly the best so far from Waters.
This long-aged (42 months) vintage Cava opens with a whiff of exotic bath soap along with more familiar apple and pear scents. There's yeasty, creamy weight to the palate and flavors of fresh-baked bread, spent yeast and papaya. Mild lees and cream notes grace the finish.
This long-aged blend of 67% Syrah and 33% Petite Sirah is plump on the oaky nose with condensed rose petal, chocolate cake and violet aromas. The palate starts with ripe black cherries but then settles into an asphalt-laden midpalate, finishing with chocolate-chip cookies and a graphite tension.
This Long Island Petit Verdot is lighter on its feet and a shade brighter in style than most of its peers. Ripe but restrained black-cherry and plum flavors are accented by hints of cedar and bramble. The finish is marked by fine but slightly bitter tannins that should meld nicely by 2020.
This Long Island winery's venture into making overseas wines offers rewards courtesy of this Petit Verdot-led blend from Mallorca. Rubbery, smoky aromas of blackberry and black olive set up a chunky, chewy palate with full ripeness. Flavors of baked blackberry, core spice and chocolate end with warmth but subdued richness. Drink through 2022.
This longstanding collaboration between vintner and grower reflects years of mutual understanding and respect. The wine offers pretty orange blossom and lemon verbena aromas that wrap around a composed, well-integrated and mineral-laden body. Voluptuous, the wine is also well-balanced, finishing in bright acidity. It is deliciously good.
This longtime favorite seems to have gotten sweeter over the years, and I think it's about reached its limit, as there's just enough acidity for a semblance of balance. Floral notes of roses and berries burst from the glass, while the flavors feature juicy summer berries and a hint of chocolate.
This longtime winemaking family uses an old-style label on this bottling of the classic Italian grape, which spent 24 months on American oak. Rusty bloody aromas of cranberry, peppercorn and carnation lead into a palate framed by stiff tannins and strong acidity. Red-fruit flavors mix with woody spice, and the finish is sticky, showing that this wine is still very young.
This longtime winery recently rebranded all of its packaging into a more art-driven style, and it is buckling down on winemaking as well. This bottling from Sierra Madre Vineyard shows light aromas of white peach, grapefruit and the slightest hint of butterscotch. The chalky flavors are easy to like if not overly complex, with light lemon and nectarine touches.
This longtime winery recently released new labels, and this bottling is one of the first releases to wear the slicker style. Lavish aromas of blueberry, black currant and caramel lead into a palate full of soft chalky tannins that carry flavors of tangy plum skin, bacon fat and crème de cassis. This will age very well, but is tasty now.
This looks a bit older than it should because of the hot vintage but actually tastes fruity, youthful and vibrant. Pretty aromas of balsam, chopped herbs, blueberry, cola and natural rubber are packed tight over a firm structure. Drink now.
This looks dark and has the listed alcohol to suggest a wine with some muscle, but it's not in the glass. It's tannic, herbal, astringent and quick to the finish line.
This looks deep and dark, smells like Port and tastes almost as rich as that. However, it's dry and not too high in alcohol, although the aroma and flavor of superripe grapes is similar. While bold in flavor and relatively big in texture, it's pretty smooth overall.
This looks to be among the best vintages for this wine, or at least it's one of the most flattering to taste young. Stunning floral notes emerge from the glass, wrapped in ripe black-cherry scents. On the palate, it's slightly plummier, but still retains those exciting rose-petal nuances and folds in hints of spice and earth. Despite the evident suppleness, there's a sense of weight and structure that suggests ageability as well. Drink 2015–2022.
This looks to be reasonably long-lived, as it's firm but fine. Cherries, mushrooms and toasty oak mingle easily around a backbone of silky tannins and crisp acids. Drink 2016–2022.
This looks, smells and tastes so young that it might have come right out of the fermenting tank. It is tight to the point of reductive, with tart fruit flavors of cranberry and rhubarb, and stiff, chalky tannins.
This loud, feral Cab Franc starts with medicinal, earthy aromas. Next up is a tannic, hard, grabby palate with roasted berry, salt, char and savory flavors. An amplified roasted character carries onto the finish, which is broad and bulky.
This lovely 100% varietal wine aged just under two years in 80% new French oak shows a strong spicy clove character that's layered with cranberry and cherry fruit. Dusty mocha and integrated oak notes meet crisp acidity, maintaining freshness through all that power.
This lovely base Barbaresco exhibits a soft, generous style with loads of mature fruit, cola, tar, licorice and bitter dark chocolate. Over the palate, the wine feels tight and sharp and it will surely soften with a few more years of bottle aging.
This lovely blend of 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir is impressive in its doughy, refined sensibilities and in its distinct aromas of apple and orange blossom. Bright strawberry rides atop layered acidity and enviable length, while the palate creamy and refined. This is a vegan wine.
This lovely blend of Sangiovese (60%), Cabernet Sauvignon and Canaiolo shows the super Tuscan side of a storied wine region like Montalcino. Indeed, Castello Romitorio is one of the best Brunello producers and this wine shows their expertise with other grape varieties. Blackberry, soft spice and fruity fullness characterize the mouthfeel.
This lovely blend of Sauvignon Blanc, and 14% Roussanne, is as crisp and fresh as its name implies. Bright fruit flavors of lemon, lime, orange and pineapple speak to the success of this unusual blend. It's a bracing, palate-cleansing white wine that will be appealing all year round.
This lovely blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Grenache is hearty and robust, with lavender, garrigue, black pepper and cinnamon aromas. Its velvety texture gives way to rich blueberry cobbler flavors peppered with firewood smoke notes, recalling a winter's night.
This lovely blend, inspired by the white wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is 55% Roussanne, 27% Grenache Blanc, and 18% Viognier. Round and peachy, it's vividly framed by fresh acidity and citrus rind. Just 20% new French oak adds a kiss of toast to the finish.
This lovely brut offers a fragrance of white peach, almond and acacia flower. The palate delivers apple and citrus flavors, along with a note of bread crust. The wine is fresh and creamy with a dry finish of roasted walnut.
This lovely Cab Franc offers a softer, gentler version of Von Strasser's Cabernet Sauvignons. It shows the same dense mountain tannins and dryness, but is comprised of red cherry, red currant and violet flavors, in addition to the sweet smoky oak. Best now, with decanting, and through 2011.
This lovely Chardonnay has just the right blend of juicy peaches and subtle herbs and flowers to make it easy to drink, yet interesting enough to hold your attention. Finishes long and mouthwatering.
This lovely Dolcetto is delicious, fresh and utterly drinkable. It has a classic fragrance of strawberry, cherry and licorice, all of which carry over to the palate, along with earthy notes and a hint of almond. Made to be enjoyed young, this pairs perfectly with pasta dishes and pizza.
This lovely effort shows both finesse and generous ripe fruit. A soft smudge of mocha—or maybe halvah—lingers gracefully through a lengthy finish. The complexity and supple integration of fruit and barrel mark this as the best of an excellent lineup from Dominio IV.
This lovely expression of Arneis has an enticing floral and fruit fragrance. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh, with creamy green-apple and exotic fruit sensations. This is perfect with insalata Caprese or fish dishes.
This lovely expression of the grape blends in 21% Sémillon, adding a juicy, fleshy texture that's hard to forget. With a cradling of oak, it has a rich body met and balanced by crisp acidity, amid defined flavors of apple skin, melon and pineapple.
This lovely Gewürztraminer is floral without being cloying, and carries the varietal marker often described as talcum powder. There's a hint of mint, and despite the 16 g/L residual sugar, it's crisp and fresh.
This lovely Mendocino sparkler, crafted from two-thirds Chardonnay and one-third Pinot Noir, has lilting apple and honey aromas buoyed by a thick head of mousse. There is a pleasing follow-through from aroma to flavor and a core of ripe apple. Dry, soft with a long finish, this is a hard-to-resist food-friendly wine ready to pair widely.
This lovely metodo classico sparkling wine is made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. It has a creamy texture that delivers sensations of peach and honey, with notes of cream-filled pastries and almond. It finishes crisp and clean.
This lovely Montalcino estate delivers a bright, ruby-colored Rosso that is heavily characterized by fresh forest-fruit aromas and bright acids. The wine is streamlined and pristine.
This lovely Pinot Bianco offers a smooth, creamy texture backed by long aromas of melon, peach and pear. The wine finishes spicy and tangy.
This lovely Pinot Noir has an appealing baked crust quality with structured, firm tannins and ripe cherry goodness all around. From the steep, 900-foot-elevation Wentzel Vineyard, it exudes robust fruit flavor and layers of just-right spice.
This lovely Ribolla Gialla offers thick richness and intensity that entices but never goes overboard. Lingering tones of peach, grapefruit and candied fruit fill in the rear.
This lovely riserva delivers dark layers of chocolate, blackberry, tangy oak spice, cherry preserves and dried herb. The tannins are polished and fine and the crisp acidity would work well with a piece of braised pork. Drink after 2015.
This lovely rosé brings a complex mix of citrus, strawberry and melon flavors, etched with vivid acidity. It's poised, balanced and clean in style—a great example of how a seemingly simple wine can surprise with unexpected depth.
This lovely rosé is made from certified sustainable grapes of indeterminate variety. Slightly effervescent in tart cherry and mint, there's a textured, complex layering of strawberry and raspberry in the mix that makes the wine bright and refreshing.
This lovely rosato (made with the Montepulciano grape) would pair with spicy Indian dishes or Thai curry. The wine opens with a bright pink color and segues to ripe fruit and wild berry aromas.
This lovely Sauvignon Blanc is a little sweet in honey. But the acidity is crisp, and there's a fine mineral undertow to the fresh peach, citrus and green apple flavors, so the finish feels dry and clean.
This lovely Sauvignon is redolent of tangerine skin, wild salvia, pink grapefruit, white almond and stone fruit. The wine is expressive and bold with a tangy, sharp edge to the close.
This lovely sparkling wine from northern Italy opens with a refined perlage of small, persistent bubbles. The fragrance offers hints of yellow apples and a whiff of bread crust. There is nice length and it finishes on an almond note.
This lovely sparkling wine has aromas of white peach and bread crust. The palate delivers creamy peach and apricot flavors, along with notes of toasted almond. Crisp, quenching acidity makes for a clean finish.
This lovely sparkling wine is made entirely from Chardonnay. It offers white peach, citrus and almond notes, a creamy texture, crisp acidity and a bone-dry finish.
This lovely sparkling wine is made with no dosage or added sugar. It offers scents of warm, just baked bread, citrus and roasted almond. The palate offers peach, apple, citrus and a hint of walnut along with crisp, clean acidity. It's smooth, with fine bubbles and a creamy texture.
This lovely understated wine shows elegance and grace within a framework of dark red cherry, cedar and dried sage—the herbal tones perfectly calibrated. Firm wood tannin is complementary instead of distracting, playing a supportive role in the wine's tenacious grip of spice.
This lovely Verdelho is perfumed with jasmine and apricot. It's crisp and creamy while also tasting refreshing and light. The finish is all lime salt and minerality. Pour it at an outdoor soirée or sip it while cooking dinner.
This lovely Verdicchio has the wine's trademark floral fragrance of broom and acacia flowers, along with a whiff of beeswax. The rich palate boasts creamy apple, yellow peach and tropical fruit flavors accompanied by energizing mineral notes and crisp acidity.
This lovely Verdicchio opens with an alluring fragrance of white spring flowers, Spanish broom and a whiff of sea breeze. The creamy palate delivers white peach, tropical fruit and lemon notes, all brightened by crisp acidity and mineral accents.
This lovely vineyard-designate opens in cherry-berry cobbler, becoming luxurious and weighty on the palate while remaining juicy and expansive, too. Dusty tannins provide a structure and backbone before Tahitian vanilla marks the long finish. This wine is entirely enjoyable now but should thrive in the cellar through 2025.
This lovely wine captures the floral, perfumed essence of the grape in a restrained, sippable style. It's dry and crisp, with lemony fruit and the delicate sensation that you are drinking fresh flowers.
This lovely wine from the producer's Pelissa Vineyard is perfumed in roses, while offering a soft, velvety texture that's restrained in terms of tannin and oak. Clove, graphite and white pepper develop in the glass, adding to the wine's classical nature.
This lovely wine has a great depth of decadent, succulent aromas of citrus and apple blossom, that explode around tangy acidity. Pear, quince and lemongrass-ginger spice dot the palate in measured, beautiful ways, finishing balanced and crisp.
This lovely wine has classic green-apple and lime aromas that are fully developed, with a nice backdrop of yeast and dough. In the mouth, it’s very rich. At eight years, the acids and tannins have modulated, leaving behind a creamy texture. And yet it’s still young and will age.
This lovely wine has hallmark aromas of violet, wild cherry and berry, with whiffs of pressed powder. The palate is bright and delicious, with marasca cherry, raspberry and licorice flavors.
This lovely wine is balanced in tannin and acidity. Nutty, it has a touch of leather underlying the savory's fruit's baked quality, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg and warmth. Aged in Hungarian, French and American oak, little of it new, the fruit is allowed to speak and effortlessly charm.
This lovely wine is delicately structured, but quite complex and enjoyable. It has a silky texture framing cherry and red currant flavors that are subtlely tinged with sweet pea and oak. Drink now–2017.
This lovely wine may honestly be called Burgundian, though the fruit shows some New World brightness and freshness. Aged 16 months in 40% new French oak, it tastes of apple butter, toast and caramel.
This lovely wine offers a bouquet of jasmine and acacia flowers that are typical of the Pecorino grape. The fresh palate offers juicy apricot, pear and nutty flavors accompanied by crisp, clean acidity.
This lovely wine offers aromas of cherry vanilla, ripe cherry and black raspberry. Fruit forward at first, it develops pronounced smoky charcuterie flavors on the palate. The tannins are fine and the finish goes on and on.
This lovely wine offers classic elements of cedar and tar built around a medium-bodied weight of soft, complex texture. Smoky oak never detracts from the layering of black licorice and blackberry that builds as it goes, this wine defined most by its substantial length.
This lovely wine shows perfect physiological ripeness, with high acidity intact. Melon and white peach fruit flavors anchor a snappy, fresh, all-stainless style.
This lovely wine sings in rich red and black berries, a celebration of juicy, ripe fruit that's balanced by a firmness of acidity. Inviting wafts of clove and vanilla play backup with finesse, atop soft, well-behaved tannins.
This lovely wine, a Monopole, is already showing complex, forward fruit with flavors of plum, cherry and cranberry. Soft and fulsome, it shows a light hand with the oak, allowing nuances of tobacco and leather to emerge. Good weight and texture, it seems bound for early glory.
This lovely, cool-climate Pinot Grigio would pair with tuna carpaccio or sushi. It's a balanced and crisp wine with layers of citrus, stone fruit and honey.
This lovely, creamy and medium-bodied expression of pineapple offers a touch of ginger spice as it goes along. From a cooler area of the Napa Valley, the wine never gets sloppy in its use of oak, allowing the fruit and acidity to speak.
This lovely, evocative wine celebrates the finesse that characterizes the finest Pinot Noirs. Delicate nuances of bramble, cinnamon, tar and nougat wrap around and weave through a core of black cherry fruit. Ample acidity ensures much life ahead, through at least 2025.
This lovely, full-bodied white offers generous caramel apple and baked pear flavors cradled in toasted oak that brings nutmeg and vanilla aspects. The rich roundness finds refreshment on the finish in stony acidity.
This lovely, golden-colored wine comes from the Dutton family's Mill Station Vineyard in the heart of Green Valley, a cool, structured appellation within the larger confines of the Russian River Valley. Heady caramel and vanilla highlights wrap around a balance of acidity and bright spots of lemon and quince. The minerality of the wine balances its intensity in expert ways.
This lovely, layered wine from the Santa Ynez Valley-based producer shows iron, cranberry, shiitake, cola and cherry on the nose. Those same elements are delicately woven into the palate, enhanced by a Sichuan peppercorn kick and vibrant acidity that will ensure a long life ahead. Its flavors continue to unwind as it opens in the glass.
This lovely, luxurious wine hails from the Terra de Promissio Vineyard. It stands out for its thickness of earthy forest floor and exuberant fruit, a mix of candied raspberry, blueberry and cherry. Building structure and power as it opens in the glass, it finishes strongly tannic, suggesting more time in the cellar may be of benefit; hold through 2023.
This lovely, memorable wine from a fantastically farmed site is grippy in cherry and pomegranate with a backbone of integrated oak. Crunchy in texture, it shines in floral aromatics and a balanced body weight that's fruity and complex.
This lovely, powerful wine is very similar to the Lee Vineyard bottling, but slightly more backward. The fruit and spice aromas are a little earthier, like sniffing a handful of rich, moist humus. In the mouth, there’s just a tad more tannin, indicating, possibly, slightly longer ageability, while the finish is a bit harder. Nonetheless, this is terrific Pinot Noir, among the best anywhere
This lovely, single-vineyard Sauvignon Blanc showcases bright, ripe fruit with crisp acidity, and manages to finish dry. It's creamy textured, packed with lemon, lime and pink grapefruit flavors, and richer notes of melons, figs, wild honey, vanilla and smoke.
This lovingly made wine is packed with boysenberry, black cherry and swirls of vanilla cream around its soft, round texture and structure. Its long finish is laced with plum, whispers of smoke, licorice and a touch of cedar. Another 3–5 years in bottle will tame its tannins further and enhance every last nuance.
This low-alcohol (10.4%) dessert wine, finished with 11% residual sugar, is absolutely spot-on. Layers of textural detail amplify the concentrated core of lemon drop and candied orange, and an orange pekoe tea character adds still more flavor interest through the finish.
This low-alcohol Basque rosé starts off funky. Pickled, peppery, herbaceous aromas lead to a tart, acidic palate that's not unusual for this style of wine. Sour, herbal, peppery flavors repeat in lighter form on the finish.
This low-alcohol offering exhibits less weight and richness as a result. Still, it's a pleasant, lean white that relies on lemony flavors to provide crisp refreshment.
This low-alcohol, off-dry wine offers tart citrus and apple fruit. Light cinnamon accents and significant acidity somewhat offset the 22g/L of residual sugar.
This low-key, medium-bodied wine has subdued aromas and flavors, and a slight touch of herbs and lemon to lend personality. It's smooth in texture.
This low-oaked wine is somewhat sour with a Lemonheads sensibility, light bodied and defined by minerality. The long-lasting finish is reminiscent of lemongrass and ginger.
This low-production Cab defines Stonestreet's mountain vineyard, high above the Alexander Valley. It's very tannic now, with the drying astringency that marks a young wine. Given the fruity concentration, it should have no trouble aging for 10–15 years. High elevation fruit yields an amazing combination of cassis, minerals, tannins and acidic freshness. Drink 2020 and beyond.
This low-production Chardonnay shows the oaky, ripe notes. It has strong, forward tropical fruit, peach, lemon and lime flavors, with lots of buttered toast and vanilla bean.A firm minerality adds complexity. Drink up.
This low-production Pinot doesn't leave much to the imagination. It's all about fruit. Cherries, raspberries, currants, cola, root beer and pepper flood the mouth, housed in a crisply dry, savory mouthfeel. Could develop bottle complexities over the next six years.
This low-production Pinot Noir is dry, silky and enormously complex, with cherry pie, Dr. Pepper, bacon, anise and white pepper flavors, plus a woodsy suggestion of pine needle. Oak aging adds the perfect touch of smoke. Good as it is, it should improve in the bottle over the next 4–5 years.
This low-production Pinot shows off the elegance and balance you expect from this famous vineyard. The wine is dry and tart in acidity, with drink-me-now cranberry, pomegranate, mushroom and new oak flavors. Decant it for an hour or two.
This low-production Zin gets extra credit for sheer power. It's explosive, with briary, brambly flavors of wild raspberry, cherry and blackberry, complete with spice notes of anise, cinnamon and pepper, all wrapped in soft tannins. This would be great now with spicy beef and poultry dishes or pizza.
This low-sizzle Chardonnay opens with little to nothing in the way of fruit aromas. The palate is chunky, with squash and bready flavors. A lightly vegetal, bitter finish is plump but low on intensity.
This low alcohol wine offers tart, young, raspberry fruit, without much concentration. It was aged in 70% new French oak, which imparts a toasty, chocolatey edge to the finish.
This low production blend of Longoria's estate Fe Ciega Vineyard and Bien Nacido Vineyard seems to be comprised of grapes that didn't make the winery's highest cut. It's quite a nice wine, dry, brisk and pure in cherries, cola, spices and sandalwood, but it doesn't seem like an ager, so enjoy now.
This low production Pinot Noir will be scooped up by sommeliers who understand how good it is with so many of their entrées. The alcohol is modest, and the oak is in the background despite being comprised of 75% new French barrels. That's because the raspberry, cola and tea flavors are so strong, they're able to stand for themselves. The grape source is from Jim Clendenen's personal Le Bon Climat Vineyard and Bien Nacido. All in all, this is a gorgeous Pinot that will continue to impress over the next six years.
This lower-priced Pinot from the Center of Effort team punches way above its weight in this vintage, showing light cherry-blossom and black-cherry aromas mixed with gamy meat and wet slate. Blackberry pie is cut with orange rind on the sip, with an earthy grip showing flavors of juniper, crushed clove and pipe tobacco.
This lower alcohol-style wine from the biodynamic-minded producer shows cranberry, orange rinds, chaparral scrub, dried oregano and a mix of green and kalamata olives on the nose. It's very savvy on the palate, with minced parsley, olive tapenade, cracked peppercorns and caper berries, all framed by mouth-watering acidity.
This lower alcohol blend of 75% Viognier and 25% Grenache Blanc is expectedly racy and taut, with mineral-dominant aromas of wet cement, apple cider and baking soda. Tight and pithy on the palate, this is wound up super tight with a steely structure, allowing green fruit and more rocky flavors to carry the weight.
This lower end wine from Harlan's stable is as good as most Napa wineries' best. It's beautiful to drink right now, showing class and distinction. Tasted alone, its burst of black currants and cherries is rich, without any trace of overripeness.
This luminous and delicately pink sparkling wine from northern Italy delivers elegant notes of stone fruit, pink grapefruit, chopped almond and freshly baked bread. Zesty acidity is backed by creamy, persistent perlage.
This luminous and unique Chenin Blanc straw wine is a real stunner, showing an upfront and approachable character as well as hidden layers of nuanced herbs and the potential to develop additional complexities with time. Heady notes of toasted brioche, dried apricot, gingered orange peel and baking spice abound throughout, with great richness and a lush texture in the mouth. Intense but balanced; it can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to ten years.
This luminous blend of Insolia and Viognier offers a very pretty and feminine juxtaposition of fragrant floral aromas (from the Viognier) against tones of citrus, peach and kiwi from the Insolia. There's a touch of sweetness on the close.
This luminous bubbly hits such a light shade of pink, it only hints at being a rosé sparkler. It is incredibly delicate down to the smallest detail and would pair with salmon canapé appetizers.
This luminous Chardonnay from southern Italy imparts notes of spice, fresh herbs and little fruit. It is, however, rounded off by mineral notes and some citrus or pineapple-like aromas. It's an easy-drinking white with a chalky, almost sweet sensation in the mouth.
This luminous Chardonnay from Tuscany offers intensely fragrant aromas of honeysuckle, stone fruit and citrus blossom. The wine is fresh and crisp in the mouth and there's enough natural glycerol to leave a creamy, smooth sensation.
This luminous Gavi offers mineral notes of graphite and talc powder backed by fruity tones of peach and citrus. The wine is smooth and silky on the close and would pair with seafood or tuna salad.
This luminous Greco di Tufo offers beautiful tones of stone fruit, pear, Golden Delicious apple, herb and white stone. The wine is fresh and fragrant with a polished feel and a crisp close.
This luminous Greco di Tufo offers pretty aromas of peach, vanilla, banana and light mineral shadings. It's easy and fresh in the mouth with lime and citrus flavors that characterize its crisp close. A Marc de Grazia selection, various American importers.
This luminous Lacryma Christi opens with bright aromas of citrus, pear, stone fruit and shows slight hints of vanilla and pine nut as well. It sits tight on the palate thanks to its crispness and tonic firmness.
This luminous Nebbiolo from the mountain vineyards of Valtellina opens with a pretty fragrance of rose petal, red berries, baking spice and a whiff of crushed rock. The understated palate delivers ripe wild cherry, cinnamon-spice, licorice and a mineral note alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2017.
This luminous non-DOC Prosecco opens with bright floral notes of white flower and rose backed by sweet pear and white peach. The wine offers creamy foam and a thick, sweet impression in the mouth backed by just the right measure of cooling acidity.
This luminous Passito di Noto (a dessert wine from Sicily made with air-dried grapes) offers bright and defined aromas of orange and almond blossoms, honey, dried apricot and sweet summer fruit. There's a touch of piquant spice and acidity to break through the wine's natural sweetness and thickness.
This luminous Pinot Grigio offers sunny aromas of ripe peach, melon and pink grapefruit. The wine plays its cards well in the mouth too, thanks to its creamy but easygoing finish. Pair it with Chinese chicken salad.
This luminous Prosecco Brut, made from certified, organically grown grapes, delivers aromas of ripe citrus and peach. It offers playful herbal accents that give it personality and depth, but there are also pungent, mature fruit flavors that stop the sparkler short of excellence despite the high quality of its fruit.
This luminous Prosecco opens with drying mineral tones of talc powder followed by subtle renderings of peach and citrus. There's a lemon candy or soda-like note at the very end.
This luminous red offers aromas of wild red berry, dark spice, menthol and a whiff of espresso. The ripe, rather straightforward palate offers raspberry, tart cherry, licorice, toast, mocha and tobacco alongside polished tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
This luminous Satèn expression from Franciacorta offers extreme elegance and sophistication with loads of mature fruit and toasted baguette aromas. Its texture is incredibly smooth, soft and creamy.
This luminous Soave Classico offers linear notes of savory dried herb and mineral backed by peach and apricot. The medium density and compact mouthfeel would match coleslaw salad.
This luminous sparkler delivers a polished nose of white flower, crushed peppercorn, stone fruit and citrus. The mouthfeel is characterized by prickly effervescence and a touch of piquant spice on the close.
This luminous sparkler has a sweet, fruit-forward nose of cool white peach, sliced banana and cherry blossoms. There's a very slight note of green grass and more distinguishable mineral tones that add depth and personality. In the mouth it has a creamy, soft texture and vibrant fruit flavors.
This luminous sparkler is slightly closed in terms of its aromatic offering although you will detect delicate tones of citrus and stone fruit. It offers lean freshness and a crisp, clean close.
This luminous sparkler offers measured aromas of yellow fruit and honey and delivers a broad, wide approach in the mouth. The wine's texture is creamy and full and there is a spicy point of effervescence on the palate.
This luminous sparkler opens with aromas of jasmine, orange blossom and white peach. The crisp, refreshing palate doles out green apple, Bartlett pear and white almond alongside vibrant acidity and a silky mousse.
This luminous sparkler presents enticing aromas of white peach pulp and honeysuckle that are generous and round. This value wine delivers a tonic, firm body accented by lively peachy flavors.
This luminous Verdicchio opens with candied aromas of fruit and lemon rind backed by a creamy, smooth mouthfeel. Pair this wine with tangy Chinese sweet and sour dishes.
This luminous white (made from the unknown Biancolella grape) from the beautiful island of Ischia offers pretty tones of stone fruit, melon, ripe citrus and almond. It makes an easy, informal impression and has a light, rather lean texture.
This luminous white blend of Verdeca and Malvasia Bianca opens with a pretty golden color and segues to aromas of peach, apricot, yellow rose and honey. The wine is silky and smooth with crisp acidity on the close.
This luminous white offers delicate scents suggesting crushed rock, pear and a whiff of botanical herb. The taut, vibrant palate recalls Granny Smith apple, nectarine and mineral set against a backbone of firm acidity.
This luminous white opens with aromas of honeysuckle, tropical fruit and a whiff of tomato leaf. The racy palate offers grapefruit, bitter almond and a mineral note alongside lively acidity.
This luminous wine exhibits mature notes of apricot and nectarine and has long staying power on both the nose and mouth. Pair it with fried zucchini flowers or pumpkin-filled ravioli.
This luminous wine has a smooth, creamy quality that is reinforced by generous aromas of pineapple, citrus, peach and a dot of vanilla. It tastes fruity and fresh, but doesn't lack in structure, and would pair well with mushroom risotto.
This luminous wine is beautifully redolent of white flower, exotic fruit, tomato leaf and acacia flower and is an exceptionally clean and fragrant expression of the grape. It has a cool, crisp disposition and a compact, lean feel in the mouth. Imported by MW Imports.
This luminous wine opens with a pretty fragrance of citrus, slate and an herbal note. The linear palate delivers juicy nectarine, yellow apple, mint and sage. It's energized with a mineral vein and bright acidity.
This luminous wine opens with scents of wisteria, jasmine and white orchard fruit. The vibrant palate doles out tart green apple, white peach and a hint of lemon drop alongside brisk acidity and a foaming mousse.
This luminous wine, presented in attractively clean packaging, opens with inviting aromas of citrus, peach and Golden Delicious. It's an informal, easy-drinking wine that washes down the palate in a very refreshing manner.
This luminous, garnet-colored wine opens with aromas that recall underbrush, earth, toast, red berry and hint of menthol. A framework of refined tannins support juicy red berry, mocha and baking spice flavors. It's already very accessible and should be enjoyed over the next few years. Drink through 2019.
This luminous, golden blend of Trebbiano, Passerina and Pecorino from Abruzzo in Central Italy offers beautifully intense aromas of honeysuckle, acacia flower and stone fruit, all capped by a subtle note of white mineral. The wine is creamy and smooth in the mouth with a pretty almond-like note on the close.
This luminous, golden Pinot Grigio offers loads of intensity in the form of peach, apricot, honeydew melon and white almond. The mouthfeel is smooth and thick, making this wine particularly well suited to sophisticated pasta dishes such as pumpkin-filled ravioli with crushed walnuts.
This luminous, hay-colored Grillo imparts measured notes of banana and exotic fruit that add extra richness and dimension to what is a simple and easy-drinking white wine overall. You could pair this wine with a long list of seafood, vegetable and pasta recipes—and you can't beat this low price.
This luminous, ruby-colored Rosso delivers aromas of cherry, ripe berry fruit and sweet vanilla. There's a soft, modern touch here that has been shaped by oak aging and you'll taste background flavors of smoke and spice.
This luminous, ruby-red blend of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Ciliegiolo and 5% Alicante starts with intense aromas of forest floor, underbrush, berry and tobacco. Lively, juicy fruit flavors are accented with mint, black pepper and thyme accompanied by bracing tannins. Give this a couple of more years to come around. Vos Selections, Tosco Wine.
This luminous, ruby colored wine opens with a lovely bouquet of violet, rose, new leather, woodland berry and baking spice. The bright palate is loaded with finesse and smooth tannins, deliveing crushed red cherry and wild strawberry accented by clove and cinnamon. Enjoy now through 2020.
This luscious Barbera d'Asti shows plump aromas of black cherry and blackberry backed by lighter tones of spice and tobacco. You'll feel the freshness of the acidity and will want to pair this wine with cheesy pasta al forno.
This luscious blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese shows bright cherry and blueberry characteristics backed by smooth richness and velvety texture. The wine is soft, dense and delicious overall. It presents a beautiful portrait of Tuscan wine.
This luscious dessert wine from the island of Pantelleria opens with a pale golden color and explosive aromas of freesia flowers, jasmine, honey, peach blossom and sweet exotic fruit. It's a dense and syrupy wine that is meaty and solid in the mouth without being cloying or sticky.
This luscious, balanced Pinot Grigio isn't overly complex, but scores for its cactus pear and toasted almond aromas and flavors and its peppery, refreshing finish. It's medium-bodied, with just a hint of unreleased CO2 to enliven it.
This luscious, flavorful and mouthcoatingly rich wine smells like ripe strawberries, and tastes almost like blackberry jam. It does a good job of balancing lots of ripe and nearly sweet fruit flavors with firm tannins and has a rich and lingering finish. It's high in alcohol and flavor.
This lusciously dark and concentrated Barbera delivers rich aromas of mature fruit, prune, blackberry, exotic spice and tobacco. It's an opulent wine with soft tannins and bright acidity.
This lusciously ripened Bordeaux-style red is plush and plump in flavor yet exceedingly light on its feet. Approachable and yielding, its ruddy red cherry and berry flavors seem coated in milk chocolate. Fresh acidity and bold tannins lend structure to the finish.
This lush and aromatic wine has beautiful rose-petal aromas and vibrant grapefruit flavors that spread across the palate and linger nicely on the finish. Rather full bodied, it is rich enough to serve with strong cheeses and roasted birds.
This lush and powerful selection opens with intense aromas of candied walnuts, orange rind, peanut brittle, dried apricot and vanilla-soaked oak. Round and plush in feel, it boasts a silky texture and decadent notes of apricot syrup, ginger-peach tea, clove-spiked orange and wood spice that are kept in check by ample acidity. A lovely pour that is delicious now yet will continue to hold well for another decade.
This lush Bolgheri blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot offers round, soft shades of vanilla and hazelnut beyond loads of juicy, ripe fruit. It's soothing, silky and offers a beautiful portrait of coastal Tuscan winemaking.
This lush Chardonnay has a certain oiliness to the aromas, along with dusty, toasty components that ride through a soft, plush mid-palate. The fruit is a rich mix of peach and apricot, highlighted with toasted hazelnuts, vanilla and coconut.
This lush offering opens with appealing aromas of rose petals and fresh strawberries, then glides into a smooth-as-silk midpalate. The berry/cherry fruit is nicely adorned with toasty barrel flavors, and it's as satiny as new sheets. You'll find it hard to keep from gulping this by the glassful.
This lush white starts with a nose of apricot and honey and leads into tropical fruit flavors balanced by a good acidity. Indulgent but fresh, it's a fun wine that will pair well with spicy Thai or Indian cuisine.
This lush wine leads with rich aromas of vanilla-infused blackberry, raspberry preserves and plum sauce. The medium-weight palate is plush and velvety in texture, with supple blackberry and plum flavors that carry through to the medium-length finish.
This lush wine offers true value, deeply flavored in strawberry and cherry. A tannic foundation supports the fruit beside black tea, clove and a twist of orange and cranberry, with a soft and smooth texture.
This lush wine will be too oaky for purists, but there is no denying the superb quality of the underlying fruit. It's full-bodied, soft and succulent in texture, with cassis fruit framed by ample cedar and vanilla. A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah. Drink now–2018.
This lush wine, green/gold in hue, offers mouth-coating flavors with richness and style. Apple, pear and papaya fruit holds down the center, with elements of toasted hazelnuts and butter pecan from aging in 20% new French oak. The creamy, smooth finish is delightful.
This lush, attractive Cabernet impresses for its explosion of blackberry, cherry, cassis and dark chocolate flavors that are so rich and fine. It's almost sweet, but stands back at the last second, making the finish dry and spicy. A beautiful wine for drinking now and over the next 4–6 years.
This lush, concentrated Viognier combines cool-weather weight with summertime echoes of apricots and honey. Hints of toasty oak provide an ample frame for this full-bodied wine that avoids any sense of oiliness or heaviness while remaining bold, rich and long. Drink now–2020.
This lush, extracted Malbec oozes grapy aromas of blackberry and cassis. The palate matches the nose: it's intense and fully extracted. Toasty oak frames blackberry and marzipan flavors prior to a rich finish that's almost syrupy. This is a monster Malbec. Drink through 2022.
This lush, modern Malbec explodes with power then simmers with complexities. Opaque in color, the bouquet issues intense blackberry, lemon peel, graphite and toast aromas. In the mouth, it's full but not flabby, and then comes an avalanche of black-fruit flavors matched by notes of spice cake, molasses, pepper and mocha. It's warm, toasty and full of licorice on the finish. A superb wine to drink now through 2018.
This lush, ripe Syrah has its precision points across the bouquet—namely graphite, mint and pure black-fruit scents. On the palate, this blends juicy liveliness with layered richness. Flavors of blackberry, dark plum, chocolate, mixed spices and fresh herbs add up to one yummy, well-oaked, balanced wine. Drink through 2018.
This lush, single-vineyard Zin floods the mouth with cola, blackberry jam, black pepper and toasty oak flavors. It's briary and brambly in character, and the alcohol is prominent, lending some prickly heat, but that's Dry Creek Zin for you. Enjoy it now with barbecue and rich meat stews.
This lush, smooth and supple Cabernet is drinkable now for its rich array of red berry fruit, briary spice, red licorice, blond tobacco and sandalwood flavors. It shows the softness of Alexander Valley Cabernet, but make no mistake, the balance enables it to age 6–8 years.
This lush, toasty, vividly fruity wine can't miss with a wide variety of seafood, pasta and poultry dishes. There's plenty of acid under full-bodied apple and melon and peach fruit. The acids carry a nice touch of citrus and that clean fresh fruit continues on through a medium-long finish.
This lusty Zin shows the briary, brambly character of Dry Creek Valley that always makes its Zins taste a little rustic, which in no way detracts from its deliciousness. Dry and rich in tannins, it has long, deep flavors of spices, perfectly ripe summer berries and an herbal bitterness suggestive of chamomile tea and wild nettles. A better pizza wine cannot be imagined.
This luxurious and well-mannered wine was aged in a new but un-toasted French cask. Solid structure supports its ample fruit flavors and full body, lending balance. Bright acidity and moderate tannins add texture on the palate, framing its ripe black cherry, blueberry and dark chocolate flavors nicely.
This luxurious wine from a rising star winery is saturated with ripe fruit flavors and accented with spices and dark chocolate, verging on sweetness. It's not an oak bomb, but has dark, melting blackberry and chocolate-covered cherry flavors supported by fine tannins and full body.
This luxurious wine revolves around a velvety texture of pure decadence and full-bodied pleasure. Earthy in clove and mushroom, the fruit dives deep into rich aspects of dark cherry and huckleberry.
This luxury-level project by Jeff Tanner and Rob DaFoe delivers aromas of rich blackberry jam nuanced with wet tobacco, loam, tomato leaf and a touch of spearmint. Blackberries and blueberries also line the edges of the palate, but the core is all about spicy tobacco and black pepper. There's lot of acidity four years in, so this will stand the test of time in the cellar. Drink 2017 through 2028.
This luxury-priced wine boasts plenty of ripe fruit, yet avoids being one-dimensional. Hints of smoke and damp moss add complexity to the cherry aromas and flavors, while the silky tannins glide easily over the palate. The finish is long, while simultaneously slightly dusty and mouthwatering. Drink now–2020.
This luxury bottling spends nine months in barrel, yet shows little overt oak. It's full, ripe and opulent without going over the top, boasting aromas and upfront flavors of honeydew, apricot and bergamot. Then the long, mouthwatering finish folds in hints of honey and pineapple without any hint of bitterness.
This luxury Cava is entirely clean and pure on the bouquet. The palate is bright, lifted and zesty for a 2006, with apple, dry spice and lingering citrus notes. The body is defined by its yeasty weight and foam but it's not heavy or dull. Only 100 cases of this beauty were made. Drink now–2015.
This luxury cuvée combines Syrah with Vermentino in a wine that resembles Sauvignon Blanc for its lively citrus and passion fruit aromas and flavors. A bit of oiliness gives it weight on the midpalate, but it finishes zesty and refreshing.
This luxury cuvée from Thorne Clarke combines ripe berries with cinnamon and clove, then adds dollops of vanilla and chocolate, yet never seems overly sweet. Likewise, it's full bodied and rich, yet never goes over the top, maintaining a sense of freshness and structure. Drink now–2020, and possibly beyond.
This luxury cuvée rides close to the edge of being too ripe for its own good. It's full bodied and rich, boasting flavors of prune, chocolate and espresso framed by hints of toast and vanilla. The texture is supple, turning velvety on the finish, which makes it accessible now. Drink it over the next few years.
This luxury cuvée was aged in 600-liter demimuids, which proprietor André Romero believes impart just the right amount of oak influence. The 2006 is not as richly concentrated as the 2005, but may turn out to be better balanced, with its creamy texture building to mouthdrying on the finish. Bold cherry flavors and a touch of chocolate finish long, picking up hints of spice. Drink now–2020.
This mélange of grapes from Sonoma (56%), Napa (30%) and San Joaquin County (14%) intermingles Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Petit Verdot. An intense, weighty concoction of strawberry and leather, it's well-priced and distributed widely.
This mélange of mostly Viognier and Chardonnay also holds smaller percentages of Sauvignon Blanc, Symphony and Muscat. Incognito spent no time in oak. With a lively taste of orange blossom, it could almost be mistaken for Gewürztraminer because of its distinct mixture of floral and spice.
This méthode Champenoise blend of 76% Pinot Noir and 24% Chardonnay impresses with its inviting mousse of peach and strawberry. It's fresh and lush, aged on the lees for three years, giving it body without an overabundance of alcohol. Dry, it finishes with a twist of candied orange peel.
This Macabeo (Viura) blend is neutral on the nose but fairly big and bulky on the palate. Flavors of lemon-lime and banana are spritzy at first and then stickier late. The rest of the composition (Macabeo and Parellada) dictates that the flavors will be short; but what's on display is nice and creamy.
This Macedonian wine made from 100% Žilavka has aromas of honeysuckle and peach. Balanced in the mouth, it has flavors of green papaya and tart pineapple.
This magenta-colored blend is mostly Bobal, and it smells reduced, with raw raspberry and plum scents. A racy, rubbery and pinching palate holds tart plum and currant flavors. This wine is constrained as a whole, but juicy.
This magenta-hued Monastrell opens with concentrated aromas of jammy wild berries, herbs and rubber. The palate feels fleshy and chunky, while herbal, earthy blackberry and plum flavors precede a full-force finish of herbal, briny and salty accents. Drink through 2022.
This magnificent expression of Sauvignon is very true to the variety and represents a huge step forward for the winemaking program of the Zonin family (that owns this estate). With help from Bordeaux professor Denis Dubourdieu, the wine crafted here is bright, deeply aromatic, fresh and crisp. It delivers exotic fruit, white flower, dried sage, ginger and tomato leaf characteristics.
This magnificent wine is rich and intense with toffee and rare spice flavors. It is so concentrated— old gold in character and color with acidity that cuts through the sweetness and makes the wine so beautifully concentrated and crisp at the same time. Drink now.
This magnum-size wine, named after the Tensleys' son, Oliver Gunnar, is still very young, especially for the large size, but the aromas of purple flower, tar, salt, pepper and black plum are very promising. Zesty pepper and thyme show on the sip along with black-plum paste and savory hoisin touches, held together by a very grippy texture. This heavy-duty wine needs time to blossom. Drink 2019–2030.
This magnum-sized bottling named after Joey Tensley's niece is a study of darkness, with asphalt, charred beef, black currant and a hint of purple flowers on the nose. It's suave and already elegant on the sip, with stewed blackberries and tart black plums, but it still needs time to grow into its sure-to-be-savory side. Drink 2019–2030.
This maintains good harmony between aromas of ripe fruit and elegant spice. It's an easy-drinking, approachable wine that would wash down well with simple roasted meats. Imported by Racke USA.
This Maipo estate is now aligned with Chateau Ste. Michelle of Washington, which doesn't exactly impact this nice everyday Cabernet. Bramble and fresh berry aromas offer an entry, then there's chewy raspberry on the palate along with a grace of vanilla and some warmth. A bone-warming wine for fall and winter.
This Maipo Malbec is a bit pinched and gritty up front, with leather, rubber and raspberry aromas in the backdrop. A full, chunky palate offers mildly herbal, baked berry flavors in front of a spicy, minty, mildly hot finish. This is nice for Chilean Malbec but a little aggressive.
This majority-Cabernet Sauvignon is not aided much by the additions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the trio combining for an untidy mix of black olive and dust. The wine throughout is a bit flat and the finish quite abbreviated.
This majority-Syrah was fermented with a tiny handful of Viognier, both grown on a certified-organic estate vineyard. With a touch of licorice and leather in the mix, it offers funk that may or may not be of interest to every palate and should be enjoyed sooner rather than later.
This majority Merlot, with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, is elegant in sandalwood and cedar, offering a taste of cassis and dried herb atop integrated yet sizable tannins. French oak, half of it new, encased the wine for a little more than two years, adding to its power and structure. Drink now through 2021.
This majority Sauvignon Blanc also contains almost 25% Sémillon, giving it a tropical, papaya-like bouquet. Layers of medium body and a developing texture provide weight and complexity while a balance of tangy acidity and floral aromas remain pleasing all around.
This majority varietal wine contains 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, which doesn't help to soften its powerful grip of sturdy tannin and sideshow of oak. Blueberry and chocolate come to the fore slowly between meaty leather and a dusty aroma.
This makes a great showing for Boatique's first review. A deep color, superconcentrated flavors and a big but agile body set this wine apart. It smells like ripe blackberries and tastes like cherries and blueberries dusted with very dark chocolate. This wine is is dry, refined and very young, so cellar it until at least 2020 if you can wait that long.
This makes a nice change from the simply fruity norm. The color is a traditional light garnet with a bronze rim, while the aromas resemble rhubarb and raspberries. Flavors are earthy, savory and meaty rather than straightforward grapy. The texture is rather soft, the tannins muted and the body not too full.
This makes a nice choice for your house white wine to buy by the case. Attractively rich, it seems to be all about the fruit flavor. It brings ripe pear and peach notes, an opulent texture and lingering fruity finish. It is medium-bodied, smooth and complete.
This makes an interesting contrast with the 2002 vintage, also currently on release. The 2000 is softer, more open, sweeter, certainly less vivid and concentrated. Its creamy texture has attractive fresh pear and white currant fruits, followed by red apple acidity. Drink now.
This makes three knockout vintages in a row from Sol Rouge. The wine has richness, roundness, power and finesse all rolled into a balanced package. It smells gutsy, ripe but also smoky and savory, and tastes deep and layered with cassis, chocolate, and tobacco. A good wrapping of fine tannins pulls everything together.
This Malbec's high-toned floral aromas of plum and blueberry come in front of a raw, abrasive palate. This tastes like pickled cranberry, while a citric finish is an enamel-peeler.
This Malbec-Cabernet Franc blend is topped with heavy oak that lends a burnt, chemical character to the nose. Tight across the palate, with hard tannins, this tastes dry and oaky, with barrel-driven berry and cassis flavors. Dry, woody, edgy and a touch hot on the finish.
This Malbec-driven blend is concentrated up front, with staunch aromas of espresso, balsamic vinegar, leather, raw oak and mixed black fruits. This is big and lush, but vaguely focused on the midpalate. Flavors of berry fruits, toast and balsamic brine end with cushion and moderate structure. Drink through 2022.
This Malbec-led blend (with Petit Verdot and Tannat) is muscular and piercing on the nose, with aromas of brick dust, black cherry, cassis and raisin. The palate is saturated and creamy, with a lactic sensation competing with rubbery tannins. Flavors of vanilla, raw oak, tomato, plum, herbs and chocolate are complex and finish with multiple interest points along with mild heat. Give this more time, if possible. Best from 2018 through 2022.
This Malbec-led blend contains 20% Syrah, but it's the Malbec that drives it. Crisp, toasty aromas of graphite, lemony oak and blackberry are tight and not at all lazy. A massive palate is choppy, with rugged tannins. Baked black-fruit flavors of cassis, mocha, tobacco and chocolate end long and loamy, with unbroken concentration. Drink through 2025.
This Malbec-led blend is quite oaky, thus maple, molasses and chocolate aromas ride high alongside blackberry and mild floral notes. In the mouth, this is quasi-syrupy and very rich. Flavors of baked black fruits and brown sugar finish sticky, with chunky weight. Drink through 2018.
This Malbec-led blend opens with grapy black-fruit aromas. The palate is saturated through and through, while intensely ripe flavors of blackberry, cassis and black plum finish long but not aggressive. This comes across as being well polished and smooth; drink through 2022.
This Malbec-led blend opens with inky, hard-packed aromas of black fruits and grilled meats. The palate is on the rough and tough side, while flavors of ripe black fruits are intertwined with strong oak and spice. Overall, this is ripe, bold and heavy.
This Malbec-Merlot-Tannat blend from northerly Salta is bright purple in color, with compact aromas of wood smoke, graphite, ink and blackberry. The acidity is high but functions as a brace for plum, blackberry and cassis flavors. A crisp, clampy finish is edgy due to aforementioned racy acidity. Drink through 2020.
This Malbec-Tannat blend from northern Argentina is hard and raisiny on the nose, with ripeness but not much elegance. The palate is rough and tannic, with stewy flavors and raisiny notes. A finish with baked fruit flavors, herbal leanings and leather is classic Cafayate.
This Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon blend opens with blueberry and currant aromas that hint at the exotic. A flush racy palate is high in acid and a touch abrasive. Plum and currant flavors are not what you'd call cushioned, while this ends with hard edgy tannins and a reprise of scouring acidity. In terms of aging, this will last a long time. Drink through 2027.
This Malbec blend is bright, jammy and grapy on the nose. The palate is juicy but bumpy and rough in feel, while fresh-fruit flavors of raspberry and cherry are a little too candied and simple for a wine of this level. A ripe medicinal finish is lush but awkward.
This Malbec blend is ripe and woodsy, with cedary boysenberry and cassis aromas that are spicy and include some barnyard. A full, hammering palate is tanninc and grating. Flavors of black cherry, cassis and vanilla finish on both sides of the line that divides elegance from rugged intensity. Drink through 2024.
This Malbec from the Vista Flores zone of the Uco Valley falls outside the box. An exotic bouquet comprised of blueberry, graham cracker, citrus peel and cardamom aromas stirs interest, while a jammy palate deals blueberry, baking spice, Middle Eastern spice and blackened flavors. This is extracted but juicy on the finish. Drink through 2018.
This Malbec is a collection of disparate parts that doesn't justify its price. Reduced plum and grapy berry aromas come with woodsy notes of menthol and cola. Highly herbal, saucy, savory flavors are more oaky than fruity, while this finishes with muscular tannins and savory, grapy notes.
This Malbec is black as night, with shoe polish, charred oak and black-fruit aromas. The palate is borderline syrupy, with ripe, heavily charred flavors of blackened berry, vanilla and mint. On the finish, it's weighty and peppery tasting, with heat.
This Malbec is exceedingly ripe from start to finish. Aromas of blackberry, raisin, char and loamy earth announce a 16% heavyweight that holds onto its elegance. Flush, plump and elastic on the palate, this tastes of fig, blackberry, cassis and mocha. Chocolate and woodspice flavors drive a lush, dense finish that's a touch hot. Drink through 2020.
This Malbec is lush with flavors of ripe blueberries, blackberry jam, mocha and cassis all wrapped up with toasty oak. There's fine acidity and rich tannins as well. It's one of the best examples of the variety in California, and endlessly enjoyable through a long, spicy finish. Kudos to winemaker/owner Kenny Kahn.
This Malbec is so dry, tannic and acidic that it's impossible to enjoy it on its own. There's a core of blackberries, but wow, what a tough wine. Decant it for a few hours and try it with barbecue.
This Malbec is soft in style, with plenty of black currant tones balanced by vibrant acidity and ripe tannins. The black fruit flavors have a succulent character that makes the wine now ready to drink.
This Malbec is strangely exotic, with unusual floral aromas that blend in Middle Eastern spices including cardamom. Massive and borderline over-extracted, this tastes earthy and baked, with herbal blackberry flavors. A blackened, peppery flavor dominates a finish that comes across as stewed.
This Malbec offers enticing aromas of mocha, herb, violet and leather. The full-bodied palate features delineated notes of pastis and toasted herb, and it bears finessed, sinewy tannins. Stylistically, this is more geared to Malbec from Southwest France than from Argentina.
This Malbec opens with a blast of raw woodgrain, a lactic smell, leather and finally some black fruit. The palate is racy and potent, with resiny oak leading herbal berry flavors. A fiery, hot finish brings this to a scouring close.
This Malbec shows massive amounts of barrel influence and a strong element of diesel fuel, which takes a while to blow off.
This Malibu winery's bottling from the historic Bien Nacido vineyard is lush with lemon curd, buttered croissant and brown spice aromas. The palate is both plush and vibrant, its apple cream and poached pear favors enlivened with sea salt, lemon rind and slate accents. It's complex and awesome.
This manages to be plush and rich in texture while keeping the alcohol level reined in. Pineapple crème brûlée aromas are backed up on the palate by flavors of peach and pineapple, finishing long and rich. Drink now.
This manages to be rounded and crisp at the same time, giving an intense citrus flavor and a soft texture, with just a touch of honey on the finish.
This manages to combine instant drinkability with Napa complexity, resulting in a really nice wine. Although it's not an ager, it rises to the occasion with sweetly ripe raspberries, cherries and blackberries, plush, polished tannins and a lovely coating of smoky oak.
This mango-flavored wine is ripe, generous and fruity. Its richness and spice are right up front. It is a gorgeous wine, smooth, creamy and ready to drink.
This Manzoni (a cross between Riesling and Pinot Bianco) opens with a pretty, luminous glow and offers pristine aromas of stone fruit, mango and vanilla. Natural structure and smoothness underscore the variety's pairing potential with most Thai or Indian dishes.
This marches in a completely opposite direction from the oaky, fruity, buttery style of modern Chardonnay. It's bone dry and minerally, with mouthwatering acidity and traces of oranges and limes. The minerality is like a lick of cold steel. What a great food wine at a great price, although production was a paltry 230 cases.
This marches to the beat of its own drum, presenting a different style and bouquet than the average Amarone. In fact, this is thinner and more streamlined, with plump blackberry and boysenberry tones that are backed by moist earth and tobacco accents. It shows a feminine side to one of Italy's most powerful reds.
This Margaux is full of firm tannins that parallel the fragrant blackberry and black plum touches. It has a dense structure, very much in line with the year, while the finish is juicy and fruity.
This Marin County Pinot may have suffered from the cool vintage as the raspberry and cherry flavors that it opens with veer into bitter territory. The texture is fine, heavier than usual, the wine just having a hard time coming around.
This marks a change in style from Three Rivers's 2010, with noticeably less new oak influence and a much smaller production. The green apple and pineapple flavors have some sharpness, and the barrel fermentation (just 15% new oak) adds a biscuit-like note of vanilla wafer.
This marks a real departure for Michael David, a producer that tends to make its wines big and bold. This soft, hardly oaked, lightly tannic Cinsault is from a very special old vineyard. With a smooth texture and a core of red cherry and cranberry flavors, it is light-bodied and very floral.
This marks an impressive step forward for this wine that's so often been in the shadows of other wines in the Lafite-Rothschild stable. It's dense and structured as well as deliciously fruity. The wine is straight down the line, starting with perfumed acidity and finishing with blackberry fruit. Intense and tannic, it's likely to age. Drink from 2020.
This marks another stellar vintage of The Traveler, an estate-grown block planted to a suitcase clone that seems to have found a happy place in Fort Ross-Seaview. Dark cherry and strawberry jump out of the glass, around a core of lush, spicy and decadent chocolate swirls. Buoyant in acidity, this is a gorgeous Pinot with lilting traces of orange and cranberry on the finish.
This marks another stunning vintage for this blend of 55% Sémillon, 25% Muscadelle, 10% Palomino and 10% Colombard, made by Zin master Mike Officer. Pungent in pear and pineapple, it has cutting-edge minerality, a taste of slate, and remains at turns creamy and crisp on the palate. This wine is unusual in all the right ways yet triumphantly delicious.
This marks the 17th vintage of this wine, a joint venture between the Douro-based Symington family and Bordeaux consultant Bruno Prats. Based entirely on fruit from Quintas de Roriz and Perdiz, this smooth, structured wine has many of the characteristics of Bordeaux with its new wood and elegant texture. Acidity, black fruits and tannins are developing well. Drink from 2019.
This marks the debut of consulting winemaker Matthew Courtney's take on the estate site. It dazzles in complex notes of exotic Asian spice, lavender and crushed rock, while focused acidity provides a context of substance and depth.
This marks the debut of the Ramos Vineyard Chardonnay, inspired by a high-elevation site planted in 2001 by the late Bob Sessions and Jose Ramos, now director of vineyard operations. The wine paints a portrait of high-toned, elegant minerality accented by peach and lithe lemon. Capable of aging, it dances in acidity, with just a hint of caramel-vanilla on the finish. Made in tiny quantities, it's worth desperately seeking out.
This marks the final version of Roda II. Starting with the 2002 vintage it will just be called Roda. Regardless of name, we especially like the racy red fruit and the length of the finish. Up front there's smoke and balsam wood, and after that flavors of cherry, raspberry and tobacco. Will age well for another five years.
This marks the first vintage of this Moulis estate under the ownership of the Barton family of Léoville Barton. Already the wine is showing breeding and an understated structure and richness. Lightly perfumed, full of black fruits and integrated tannins, it should age well. Drink from 2017.
This marks two years in a row that this wine ranks low. It's dull, devoid of aromas and sour. Tastes green and bland, with little to latch onto. Just never gets going.
This Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is very easy to drink, if slightly lacking distinctiveness. Melon and fig flavors finish on a slightly grassy note, while the texture is plump and soft.
This Marlborough Sauvignon from a Hawke's Bay winery is a little on the herbal side—even close to vegetal, although it doesn't quite go that far. A trace of sweetness lingers to balance out the tobacco- and tomato-leaf elements.
This marquee estate site supplies yet another gorgeous vintage of this powerful white, which opens with a crisp aroma of orange blossom. It follows in to the full-bodied palate, alongside layers of pear, pineapple and melon, all kept fresh by juicy acidity amid bites of oak and baking spice.
This marvelous vineyard has not been featured by Elk Cove previously. The characteristic blackberry fruit shines through, but winemaker Adam Campbell has wrapped it in the sort of elegant, lightly herbal, spicy flavors that define the Elk Cove style. Perfectly ripened at 14.5% alcohol, this wine manages to be both fruity and complex, open and layered.
This mashup of 62% Syrah, 16% Petite Sirah, 8% Tempranillo, 7% Grenache, 5% Zinfandel and 2% Malbec delivers aromas of black cherry and Chinese five spice as well as mint and black earth. The palate picks up blackberry-laced iced tea with sprigs of mint and pinches of cardamom, alongside spicy gingerbread cake.
This massive blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot is packed tight with cinnamon, clove and Christmas spice lavished over a solid core of blackberry and plum. The wine shows a ripe, jammy finish with a long, fruity fade.
This massive super Tuscan blend based mostly on Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon is thick, inky dark in color and particularly intense this vintage. Black cherry, spice, plum cake and leather are protagonists of the bouquet. The mouthfeel is smooth and incredibly rich.
This massive wine is powered by dark, concentrated and smoky tannins that are masking the fruit. Dry and dense, it will take many years for the black fruits behind the facade to develop. Drink this intense wine from 2025.
This massive, explosive Chardonnay is marked by extremely ripe pineapple, pear and peach fruit, accented with lots of sweet, caramelized oak. It's a potent, high alcohol wine whose buttered popcorn flavors are complex by crisp acidity and minerals. A bit obvious, but a fine example of its style.
This massively oaky wine smells like an explosion in a spice factory, with ginger, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg aromas, accented by vanilla, brown sugar, butterscotch and honey. Somewhere in there is some ripe tropical fruit. Enormous and full-bodied, it's a dense, unctuous wine.
This matches deep purple fruits to aggressive herb and stem flavors. The impression is that some percentage of whole clusters were included in the ferment. This definitely needs extra bottle age—put it away till 2020.
This mature blend of Gewurztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc and Macabeo is oily, plump and fragrant, but also blocky, chunky and on its last legs of freshness. Flowery peach, melon and papaya flavors end short, with an oily mouthfeel.
This mature blend of Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo smells stalky and herbal, with stewed berry notes and a whiff of coffee grinds. The palate is raw and rubbing, while horsey berry flavors suggest underripeness. A soupy, stewy tasting finish feels chunky and obtuse.
This mature block-designated wine shows round blackberry flavors offset by leather and smoke. Full bodied, it's densely built and powerfully ripe.
This mature Bordeaux-style blend is earthy on the nose, with tobacco, clay and loamy berry aromas. Despite its age, the palate is still showing red-fruit acidity matched against ripeness and weight. A mix of dried berry, tomato, tobacco, spice and salty flavors finish loamy and smooth. Drink now.
This mature brut nature is smoky and stalky/bitter on the nose. In the mouth, it's lean and acidic, with little body in support of citrus and gritty apple flavors. Bitterness and white-pepper notes rise up on the finish. For razor-sharp Cava, this fits the bill.
This mature example of Costières de Nîmes should be consumed over the next six months or so for its appealing savory characters of leather and dried fruit. It's medium bodied, with a silky finish that should make it easy to pair with anything from chicken to lamb.
This mature expression of Sauvignon opens with bright aromas of peach, honey, apricot and passion fruit. The mouthfeel is less intense with a lean, but crisp finish.
This mature generous wine is perfectly ready to drink. Its red fruits are now balanced by a toasty character as well as ripe acidity and a touch of tannin. This is a very fine wine, balanced and rich. Drink now.
This mature Montsant smells like a classic aged Spanish wine: there's a mix of vanilla, earth and raisin. In the mouth, it's a bit tired and stewy but not overly so. Flavors of baked berry, prune, tobacco and spice are warm and earthy, while the finish is rich and soft. Drink immediately.
This mature Muscadet is one that is in peak condition. In losing its youthful acidity, it has gained a depth of flavor and ripe apple and pear fruits that give it intensity as well as a strongly perfumed character. Drink this wine now.
This mature PN from a hot vintage isn't showing much life. Earthy, raisiny aromas aren't fresh, while wood tannin and acid are keeping it afloat. Flavors of brown sugar and decayed berry fruits finish stale. This is on its very last legs.
This mature Primitivo from the Salento area of Southern Italy offers plump notes of black cherry, raspberry jam and dried figs. The mouthfeel is chewy and soft with a velvety, chewy finish.
This mature red wine from the Castel del Monte area of Southern Italy is made with 100% Uve di Troia and delivers thick layers of cherry fruit, chocolate fudge and exotic spice (it sees 14 months of oak aging). Its color is rich and saturated and the wine has a polished but ripe finish.
This mature Tempranillo shows aromas of fig and sherry vinegar along with raisin. A ripe yet pinched feeling palate deals aged flavors of raisin, caramel and toffee, while a chocolaty finish is low on vital fruit. This gran reserva exhibits multiple sherry-like characteristics.
This mature varietal Petit Verdot surprises with ripe, spicy, peppery aromas of plum and blackberry. In the mouth, it is full and tannic, but not fierce or impossible to penetrate. Lightly stewed blackberry and plum flavors come with vanilla notes prior to a finish defined by prune, chocolate, pepper and vanilla flavors. Drink now.
This mature wine has a soft, smooth character and ripe fruit. With its red-berry flavors and gentle tannins, it's very ready to drink. The blend is dominated by Touriga Nacional from an estate at the heart of the Douro vineyards in Pinhão.
This mature wine is a touch gritty and baked on the nose, and the palate has some scratch and choppiness to the mouthfeel. But core flavors of stewed berry, baked plum and cherry are good, and the finish of molasses, brown sugar and ripe berry fruit has its merits. Drink now.
This mature wine is beginning to dry out with its dark tannins and leather texture. A complex wine, it's on the point of losing its fruitiness, giving a firm structure along with juicy acidity at the end. Drink now.
This mature wine shows its toasty side. A mineral texture is now integrated with the almond, yeast and bread flavors to give a wine that's crisp while no longer bringing out its fruit. This wine is elegant with poise and great style. Drink now.
This mature wine that has 50% Touriga Nacional in its blend, is firm and structured, with a smooth edge of wood aging that makes it very drinkable now. A black plum skin texture gives the wine extra concentration. Drink until 2025.
This mature wine, has lost youthful fruitiness and gained a more nutty, smooth and rich quality. There are touches of toastiness and almonds, with an aromatic aftertaste. Drink now.
This mature, ready-to-drink example of Coonawarra Cab offers complex aromas and flavors of leather, cedar and black cherry, plus hints of mint and roasted beef. The tannins are smooth, the mouthfeel moderately rich and the finish long and mouthwatering. Drink now-2015.
This mature, yeasty sparkler from Mendoza smells of brioche and baked apple. Flavors of sourdough bread, cider and white mushroom finish bready and soft, so drink now.
This Maule Malbec opens with pinched, herbal aromas of cherry and berry mixed with leather. The palate is fresh and zesty, almost to the point of being lean and scouring, with red plum, raspberry, cherry and a touch of vanilla. A quick finish that's tangy is the final act.
This Maule Valley old-vines Carignan opens with licorice, blackberry and cassis aromas along with exotic spice notes. It's big, tannic and firm as a boulder, with baked flavors of black fruits blended with coffee and toast. Licorice, blackened toast and overall grit take this to a good but gripping conclusion. Drink through 2018.
This maverick wine looks cloudy and orange in hue and offers citrus zest and peach skin aromas. That's because it was fermented with the grape skins, like a red wine. A plethora of flavors comes through on the palate, from peach and almond to jasmine and prosciutto, and it has a mouthfilling texture. Know that it's not a mainstream wine but enjoy it anyway.
This may appeal more to some than others because barrel-fermented Viura is a tough row. Smells a lot like creamed corn or wheat, with apple cider on the side. It's barely acidic enough, thus it's soft in feel and tastes of butterscotch, melon and flabby apple. Seemingly less interesting than in the past.
This may be a little soft and simple, but overall it is a tasty Merlot that's rich in milk chocolate and cherry jam, with a touch of smoky oak. Drink it at a party.
This may be a little sweet, hot and heavy, but it has such rich flavors of berry, currant, spice and mocha that it's easy to drink with ribs, chicken, burgers or vegetarian lasagna.
This may be a nonvintage wine, but it's obvious from the yellow straw color that the wine is very ready to drink. The taste confirms this with a smooth palate with yellow fruit flavors and acidity that is well integrated. It's a delicious wine, fruity and generous at the end.
This may be a straightforward Grüner, but there's surprising complexity as well. There's a steely, mineral texture that's almost chewy, as well as a fruitier element. It's a dry, densely structured wine that could age for another year or two. Screwcap.
This may be a touch more elegant than the 2012, but otherwise, it's remarkably consistent. It's medium bodied, with supple tannins framing cherry fruit underlain by hints of beetroot and ground spices—clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. Drink now–2024.
This may be a wrong estimate, but the wine tastes like it was made from younger vines in this large vineyard. It has that fresh, rude, jammy quality that trades complexity and ageworthiness for immediate appeal. Yet there's no denying the luxurious balance, and the deliciousness of the cherry, raspberry and cola flavors. Drink now.
This may be dry Chenin Blanc, but there is this tantalizing touch of honey that goes with the crisp apple and fresh quince fruits. The wine has delicious, refreshingly crisp acidity that counterbalances its natural richness.
This may be one of the most austere Viogniers I've ever found from Washington; it's bone dry and just a bit over 13% alcohol. That makes it a good and versatile wine for mealtime. It's light, hints at beeswax and citrus, with a soft mouthfeel and a curious mix of toasted almond, banana andbutter cookies in the finish.
This may be simple Zweigelt, but it has a great structure, bringing out an impressively complex juice and tannin combination, with a ripe sweet character, black berry fruits and a core of tight, mineral tannins. The finish is open, warm and juicy.
This may be the best bottling yet by actress Drew Barrymore and her team. The pale-pink wine offers light pink lemonade, plum, cherry and bubblegum aromas. The palate combines lime juice, pluot flesh and mandarin zest, set against a chalky backbone and laced with bright acidity.
This may be the best vintage of this wine yet. The aromas and flavors are a lovely blend of citrus, stone fruit and roasted cashew, while the mouthfeel is creamy and lush without being soft or flabby. Drink now–2017.
This may be the first time this wine has been labeled Reserve; in the past it was just Finca Sophenia Malbec. And truth be told, it's a good but regular Malbec with berries and raisin on the bouquet, and then juicy berry fruit on the palate. Solidly made, with solid structure.
This may be the grapy-est, jammy-est wine on the market. Aromas are like Concord jam, while flavors recall Welch's juice. The body is full and the texture moderately tannic.
This may be the most serious California boxed wine on the market, showing great flavor concentration and an appetizing texture that's laced with fine-grained tannins. It has a deep red-black color, blackberry and dark chocolate aromas and a lip-smacking finish.
This may be the quintessential site among the extensive Milbrandt vineyards that produce much of the K Vintners Syrah lineup. The Northridge bottling has amazing purity and concentration, with a beguiling mix of deep berry fruits and gravelly minerality. Supple power, muscular and dense.
This may lack the silky completeness of Gros's 2007 Côté Terroir, but this open-knit blend of 50% Grenache, 25% Carignan and 25% Syrah still delivers a bold mouthful of plum and roasted meat flavors. Drink now.
This may not be as potent or complex as Colombier's Cuvée Gaby, but it comes close, which makes it an excellent value. Meaty, savory notes are ideally suited for accompanying autumn game or winter stews, yet the tannins are supple, making it approachable already.
This may only be a medium-bodied red, but it crackles with the exciting flavors of the northern Rhône, marrying freshly cracked peppercorns with a hint of meatiness and bright blueberry fruit. Drink now.
This may only weigh in at 12% abv, but the flavors are nicely ripened, ranging from gooseberry and peach to citrus. It's medium in weight, with a refreshing, mouthwatering finish.
This Mazuelo (Carignan) is strongly perfumed, with whiffs of juniper, funk and blueberry along the way. A full, lively, deep palate is home to black-fruit, chocolate and vanilla flavors, while the finish surfs on the edge of syrupy and fully ripe, ultimately falling on the right side of the fence.
This McFadden Chardonnay is temptingly priced. A value in its offerings of honey and apple, it's medium in weight but crisp, bright and clean in profile. On the finish, apple turns to lemon—always a nice touch when accompanying food, from seafood to chicken to pasta.
This McLaren Vale-based winery reaches into the neighboring Adelaide Hills for its Chardonnay. This is subtly oaky, hinting at toast and butter, then pulling back to reveal understated apple and citrus flavors that are clean and refreshing on the finish.
This McLaren Vale winery specializes in blends of Mediterranean varieties, and this is a fine example. It's 70% Mourvèdre and 30% Syrah, featuring plum, berry and cedary vanilla notes, plus a bit of meatiness on the nose. Richly textured on the palate, it finishes long.
This meaty, gamy wine is 84% Mourvèdre, and marries its earthy flavors to the ripe black fruit of the Syrah. The two mix well, but could use a bit more bottle time to fully integrate. Blood, meat, cassis, and smoke mingle, and some heat slips in at the end, along with rich coffee grounds and dark chocolate. Big, flavorful, lingering.
This meaty, oaky Sauvignon Blanc, with a trace of Semillon, is slightly bitter with grassy and lemony aromas and flavors coming to the fore.
This meaty, ripe Syrah is smoky and deep on the nose, with lusty berry aromas. The palate is tannic but supported by bold, fleshy blackberry flavors backed by maple, vanilla and burnt toast. Caramel richness makes its way onto the finish, which is rocky and tannic but tastes good. This value Syrah was built for grilled meat.
This Mediterranean blend of Syrah and Grenache is soft and open. It has the lightest touch of tannin, adding texture to its blackberry fruit and crisp acidity. It finishes with an attractive perfumed character.
This medium- to full-bodied Pinot Noir displays toasted cedar, vanilla bean and chocolaty espresso notes, which are all layered over a modicum of plummy fruit. It's oaky but satisfying—a Pinot Noir for Cabernet lovers. Drink now.
This medium- to full-bodied Pinot Noir has strong savory overtones. Leather and mushroom notes take charge early on and never let up, dominating the modest plum fruit and lingering on the finish. Drink up.
This medium- to full-bodied red features bright fruit accented by oak. Vanilla strongly marks the nose, yet cherry and raspberry also come through, tinged with baking spices. Crisp and firm on the finish; try pairing with rich cuts of red meat.
This medium- to full-bodied rosé features bold aromas of lime, mineral and ripe cherries, while the flavors run toward white chocolate, citrus and red fruits. There's a satisfyingly fatty character to this wine's flavors and texture, persisting through the long finish.
This medium- to full-bodied Shiraz features a welcoming mix of mulberries and vanilla, overtaken by cedary flavors on the finish, where the fruit turns crisp. A slab of charred steak would match the woody notes nicely. Drink now–2013.
This medium- to full-bodied Shiraz starts off with aromas that suggest cured meats and slightly stewed plums, while the flavors are even meatier, picking up some citrusy notes. Crisp acids accentuate some drying tannins on the finish, giving this wine a somewhat stern demeanor. Imported by McWilliam's of Coonawarra.
This medium- to full-bodied sparkler is pleasantly dry in style. Perhaps the bubbles accentuate the cedar, vanilla and baking spice aromas, but there's plenty of blackberry fruit to carry the palate and a long, dusty finish.
This medium- to full-bodied white features a richly textured mouthfeel to go with its toasty aromas and melon fruit. There's a touch of creamed-corn character, and the finish could be longer, but it's still a plump, satisfying wine to pair with chicken or fish.
This medium- to full-bodied wine features hints of struck flint on the nose, then backs those up with round, ample flavors of fig and melon. It's a relatively soft, easy-drinking style with just enough complexity to satisfy.
This medium- to full-bodied wine is smooth in texture, not overly firm or tannic. Floral and peppery notes accent cassis-tinged fruit, which finishes in a flourish of supple tannins. Drink now–2022.
This medium- to full-bodied wine manages to be mouthfilling and round without being excessively soft or syrupy. A savory, meaty, coffee-like note complements the ripe blackberry fruit, which persists a good long time on the finish. Drink now–2015.
This medium-bodied and complex wine keeps a nice balance between ripe pear and buttered-toast flavors and some good, mouth-cleansing fruit acidity. It has richness, layers of interest and a measure of restraint, too.
This medium-bodied and elegant Pinot Bianco boasts fragrances of white spring flowers, green apple and flint that carry over to the savory palate. The juicy fruit is supported by fresh acidity that leaves a clean crisp finish, making this extremely food friendly. Oliver McCrum, T. Edward Wines.
This medium-bodied and sugary tasting wine has lots of apple and pear flavors. The texture is soft and the finish very sweet.
This medium-bodied appellation wine is impressive in its combination of crisp red fruit, rhubarb, watermelon and pomegranate flavors alongside a dash of orange citrus. The smooth texture adds to the whole, as does a seasoning of allspice, while the finish is snappy in acidity.
This medium-bodied bargain-priced sparkler is maybe just a touch on the heavy side, but it should satisfy most party crowds. Hints of toast accent pineapple and tropical fruit notes, finishing soft and short. Worth trying in Mimosas or Bellinis.
This medium-bodied Barossa blend displays supple tannins and a silky finish, making it immediately accessible. Hints of smoke and sweat and complexity to the currant aromas and flavors.
This medium-bodied blend features aromas and flavors reminiscent of bubble gum and cantaloupe. It's mainly Grenache and Cinsault, which impart ample weight, balanced by some slightly bitter, pithy notes on the finish.
This medium-bodied blend of 50% Cabernet and 50% Merlot features decent cassis fruit marked by herbal touches. A hint of raisin is balanced by minty freshness, and the wine finishes a bit short.
This medium-bodied blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah is simple but satisfying. Ripe cherries and raspberries carry the load, dressed up by hints of vanilla and cinnamon. A soft dustiness marks the texture, turning silky on the finish. Drink now–2020.
This medium-bodied blend of 60% Roussanne, 30% Grenche Blanc and 10% Marsanne displays moderately fruity aromas of pineapple and honeydew. Some notes reminiscent of wet stones creep in on the palate, and bright citrus notes mark the finish. Drink now and over the next few months.
This medium-bodied blend of 70% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot offers mature berry and baking spice aromas. On the palate, round tannins temper the ripe black cherry, vanilla and coffee flavors. Drink through 2018.
This medium-bodied blend of Cinsaut, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Grenache features bright raspberry and lime notes alongside a touch of apple. Very crisp; on the lean side for a Costières de Nîmes rosé.
This medium-bodied blend of four varieties (Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Mataro) features supremely soft tannins, balanced by crisp acids, while the flavors are a slightly resiny or medicinal—but not unpleasant—blend of mint, cedar, smoke and cherry. Drink now.
This medium-bodied blend of Grenache (70%), Syrah (25%) and Mourvèdre (5%) is aged in large oak vats. Leather and spice notes accent modest cherry fruit, then fold in touches of black olive and mocha on the slightly dusty finish. Drink now–2017.
This medium-bodied blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignan delivers just what you'd expect from the appellation, it just does it better than most, at a modest price. Hints of bay leaf and wild thyme accent black cherry fruit and a touch of licorice, while the supple texture features a just slightly astringent finish. Drink now–2018.
This medium-bodied blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre shows off delicate floral and herbal notes laced over a core of raspberry compote. It's slightly creamy in texture, showing supple tannins on the finish, where it picks up a hint of bay leaf. Ready to drink now.
This medium-bodied Bordeaux blend features deep spice, pepper and red cherry flavors. It's a soft wine with gentle tannins and a subtle overall character.
This medium-bodied Cabernet is elegant and supple enough to offer some pleasure, but also boasts some green bell pepper and eucalyptus notes. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Cabernet offers a balanced blend of earth and mixed berries. Some dusty tannins are present, but come across as fine in texture, suitably framing the long, crisp finish. Drink now–2020.
This medium-bodied Cabernet shows some of the variety's hallmark austerity in its firm structure. Cassis, sage and red currant aromas and flavors finish crisp and lingering. Drink now with rare beef or lamb, or hold and drink 2020–2025.
This medium-bodied Carmenère offers blackberry, oak and white-pepper flavors and herb, wood and blueberry aromas. Good for a group; will appeal to a wide audience.
This medium-bodied Chard has nice oregano and thyme notes on the nose, with more fresh herbal accents on the palate. Cream and nutmeg flavors are most prevalent in the mouth; finishes with pleasant floury-nutmeg notes.
This medium-bodied Chard has some butterscotch notes on the nose, but thankfully lacks similarly overpowering flavors on the palate. Some citrus flavors accent the wine's peachy core; finishes a little watery.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay boasts a fair degree of complexity for its modest tariff: slightly toasty, nutty aromas lead into flavors of hazelnut, ripe peach and citrus. A solid effort.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay displays some vegetal notes of canned corn and a slightly oily texture on the finish.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay features ample apple, pear and pineapple fruit that comes across as pleasant and mouthfilling, if also a bit one-dimensional. Still, it represents a reasonable value.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay features aromas of pineapple and roasted cashew. Similar notes of ripe pineapple and nuts mark the palate, then ease to a rather soft, easy finish. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay has big aromas and flavors. It smells like toasted oak and pineapple, and tastes buttery and appley, with extra baking spice flavors and a smooth texture.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay is a bit tart and austere. Understated smoke and melon aromas lead the way, while the flavors are lemony, finishing on a slightly sour note.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay is more restrained than the 2013, but still offers plenty of roasted-cashew toastiness combined with hints of pineapple and guava. The finish is clean and refreshing, but doesn't show the hoped-for length, so drink this over the near term.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay is plump without being heavy, featuring modest citrus aromas but greater depth of fruit on the palate, adding pear and melon flavors to the mix. It's fresh and lively on the finish, which should serve it well with a wide variety of dishes. Drink now–2013.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay is tightly wound. Scents of grilled pineapple and custard offer glimpses of ripe fruit and richness, held under wraps by intense citrus flavors and a long tart finish. Drink now through 2020.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay kicks off with nutty notes of baked meringue layered over plump pear and melon fruit. There's a bit of toasted-grain as well, and a focused, lemony finish that lingers. Drink now–2019.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay offers tangerine and melon flavors, subtle leesy and oaky notes and a plump, succulent mouthfeel. Yes, it fades quickly on the finish, but this a wine to quaff, not age. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay smells sweet like marshmallows but tastes dry. It shows mild peach and lean apple flavors, a slight earthy touch and crisp-enough balance.
This medium-bodied Chardonnay starts off with some slightly nutty-almondy scents that might be mistaken for oak, but on the palate the fruit speaks loud and clear. Pear and lemon flavors ring out the loudest, followed by a refreshingly citrusy finish.
This medium-bodied dry Riesling is pleasingly aromatic, boasting scents of ginger, pear and citrus. Then it's linear and focused on the palate, delivering wet stone and crisp citrus flavors that finish long. Drink now–2025.
This medium-bodied dry white is notable for its balance and harmony. Citrus, wet stone and green apple aromas and flavors all come into play, none of them dominant, then end on a bright, grapefruity note. Drink now.
This medium-bodied dry white is prettily aromatic, showing hints of orange blossom, pineapple and pear upfront, then building on the base of fruit with hints of wet stones and a dry, almost chalky finish.
This medium-bodied effort comes across a slightly crisp and lacking in richness, but nevertheless delivers ample raspberry and cherry fruit before ending with some slightly tough tannins. Drink now with grilled meats, or hold through 2017 and see if it mellows a bit.
This medium-bodied full-flavored wine is a great example of the dry-style wines from Anderson Valley. It starts with a rose-like perfume, then floods the palate with Anjou pear and white peach. It feels rich and creamy, but also has good acidity and a tasty lingering finish.
This medium-bodied Grenache features vanilla and raspberry compote on the nose. It's a smooth, if not particularly textural wine, with berry flavors and hints of toast that fall away on the finish. Drink now.
This medium-bodied kabinett features an appealing lushness to its texture—it's not a slim, racy wine but instead offers hints of honey and diesel oil balanced by ripe apples and citrus. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Merlot boasts an abundance of ripe, juicy black-cherry and plum flavors, but with a shade of savory green herbs that persist on the palate. Bright acidity and soft tannins make it brisk and easy to drink.
This medium-bodied Merlot shows as much mineral as it does oak over its sturdy mixed-berry fruit. Spice, green-herb and resin notes add interest to the nose; chalky tannins linger on the finish. 30,000 cases produced.
This medium-bodied Nebbiolo weaves together aromas of crushed raspberry, black cherry and forest floor that carry over to the firm palate along with notes of toast and tobacco. Chewy tannins provide the framework.
This medium-bodied Pinot features aromas of vanilla, beet greens and a touch of cola to go with extremely soft tannins. Flavors of cola, cedar and earth end on hints of tart berries and coffee.
This medium-bodied Pinot features slightly dry tannins, but otherwise delivers attractive aromas and flavors of dark cherries and button mushrooms, joined by hints of earth and spice. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Pinot Gris is nearly dry in style, with crisp acids that give it a somewhat angular feel. Melon and citrus notes finish with a slightly bitter hint of orange pith. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Pinot Noir is a pleasant enough drink, offering modest strawberry and cherry aromas and flavors before a touch of mocha creeps in on the finish.
This medium-bodied Pinot Noir is oaky. It starts off with smoky, meaty, hickory notes and never really incorporates them smoothly into the modest cherry fruit, and it adds a mocha note on the slightly tough finish. A grilled steak might help bring out the wine's fruity side.
This medium-bodied Pinot Noir shows tasty varietal characteristics such as complex aromas of tea, plums and forest floor, almost-sweet cherry flavors, refreshing acidity, moderate tannins and a lingering finish. It earns its points with charm rather than weight.
This medium-bodied red from county-wide sources is herbaceous, offering dry, somewhat green tannin and lingering spiciness of black pepper.
This medium-bodied red has a dark, inky color. It smells smoky, and offers flavors that are simple, grapy and very oaky. The texture is quite tannic.
This medium-bodied red includes 8% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec. Toasted oak scents lead the nose, followed by generous cherry, cranberry and cassis notes on the palate, supported by soft acidity.
This medium-bodied red is a bit obvious and confected, but delivers ample cassis fruit without any obvious structure to support it. It's jammy and a bit sweet-tasting on the finish.
This medium-bodied red offers ample cherry and leather flavors but not much richness or depth. It's clean on the finish, with modest tannins and mouthwatering fruit.
This medium-bodied red offers aromas of stewed black-skinned fruit, pressed blue flower, menthol and clove. On the forward, chewy palate, notes of licorice and ground pepper accent a black cherry core while fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2019.
This medium-bodied red opens with aromas of mature blackcurrant, toasted oak, exotic spice, coconut and menthol. The firm palate doles out dried black cherry, blackberry jam, anise and chopped herb alongside grippy, close-grained tannins. It ends on a note of roasted coffee bean.
This medium-bodied red opens with aromas of red berry, tilled earth, underbrush and dried herb. The firm palate doles out black cherry, plum, licorice and crushed mint alongside modest acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2017.
This medium-bodied red opens with subtle aromas suggesting underbrush, leather and pressed violet. The soft round palate offers ripe black cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside pliant tannins. It's easygoing and already approachable. Drink through 2019.
This medium-bodied red weaves together sensations of mature dark cherries, crushed raspberries, forest floor and sweet baking spices. The fresh palate is supported by firm, chewy tannins and will offer easy drinking enjoyment through 2015.
This medium-bodied red wine doesn't quite track the classic Pinot Noir profile, but will make an appetizing refreshment for lunch or dinner. The aromas and flavors suggest prune and berries, while the texture is lean but palate-cleansing.
This medium-bodied Riesling comes across as a bit rich and oily for the kabinett prädikat, but it still offers enjoyable drinking. Hints of dried apricot and orange marmalade shade the aromas, while the flavors are of honeyed stone fruit with some underlying petrol. Finishes clean and minerally.
This medium-bodied Riesling shows some already-evolving notes of honey, truffle and petrol wrapped around its core of apple and citrus. Seems a little on the sweeter side of the trocken spectrum.
This medium-bodied rosé has aromas of strawberries and rose petals, and flavors of cherry, strawberry and tart cherry. The finish is clean, with a slight touch of residual sweetness on the palate.
This medium-bodied rosé is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah drawn from the estate's young vines. Like its big brother, the Vieilles Vignes, it's gently textured, easily balancing red berry fruit against citrusy elements. It's a clean, refreshing, but somewhat simple quaffer at a bargain price.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon's aromas show a pronounced grassy, passion-fruit character, while the flavors are based on melon, but also boast strongly herbal overtones, culminating in a slightly sour, passion-fruit finish.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc adds a bit of creamy depth on the midpalate, while its aromas and flavors of fig and melon are on the ripe side for Marlborough. Despite that, it's still clean and refreshing, with a long, citrus-pith finish.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc boasts a slightly oily texture to go along with decently intense aromas of stone fruit and fresh herbs. Flavors of pineapple, currant and tomato leaf provide a good introduction to Marlborough Sauvignon. Imported by Five Gold Hands.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc displays a range of flavors from nettles to citrus to honey while remaining essentially dry. The leafy notes really emerge on the finish, along with a chalky note.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc is slightly leafy in style, but balances that with lush citrus fruit. The crushed tomato stalk and grapefruit come together in a dry, harmonious finish that's mainstream delicious. Drink now.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc lacks the depth and concetration of top examples, but remains a tasy glass of crushed tomato leaf and white grapefruit. Gentle greens and modest citrus flavors end clean and refreshing.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc showcases some of the leafy, nettle-like character the Awatere is known for, but balances that with ample grapefruit and even a hint of red berries. It's clean and refreshing on the finish, a fine representation of grape variety and site.
this medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc shows only a bit of grassiness. Rather than green, it offers predominantly pineapple, grapefruit and even a touch of stone fruit, finishing with a citrusy flourish.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc smells like fruit cocktail, and the flavors that follow are pleasantly reminiscent of guava, but slightly one-dimensional. Finishes soft.
This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc strums the right chords, combining notes of crushed tomato leaf with citrusy fruit to make a pretty melody. A hint of creaminesss rounds out the midpalate, and the wine finishes long, with pristine cleanliness.
This medium-bodied Shiraz features plenty of spicy complexity and creamy-soft tannins, making it ideal for current consumption. Cedar, vanilla and spice accent raspberry fruit and linger elegantly on the finish.
This medium-bodied Shiraz is almost Saint Joseph-like in its charming cherry and cracked pepper flavors. It's not overly rich or complex, just an easy-drinking wine that should offer plenty of appeal over the next few years.
This medium-bodied shiraz is remarkably fresh and vibrant, deftly blending maple syrup and smoke with red berries, then easing into a firm, dusty finish. Drink now–2025.
This medium-bodied Shiraz is sturdily built without being too hard or too fat. Sure, it's a bit simple, relying on black cherry and plum fruit with modest hints of chocolate and spice, but there's plenty of intensity for the price.
This medium-bodied Shiraz is supple, immediately drinkable and complex—what more could one want for under $15? Find plummy fruit, meaty elements, cracked pepper and hints of mocha and a long, savory finish here.
This medium-bodied Shiraz isn't as dark or concentrated as many of its brethren, but it still makes for an enjoyable drink. Cracked pepper notes take the lead, followed by modest red-berry fruit and a crisp finish.
This medium-bodied Shiraz represents a solid value. Sourced from 80 growers, it's meant to present a “portrait” of the Barossa region, and it delivers vanilla, plum and black olive aromas and flavors, supple tannins and a lingering mocha finish.
This medium-bodied Shriaz displays a soft, creamy, inviting mouthfeel and a piquant counterpoint in its flavors of tart cherries and mulling spices. It's an easy-drinking wine that ends on a cranberry note.
This medium-bodied Syrah boasts baking spice, brick dust, brandied cherry and cassis aromas along with some stalky green. The palate is tight and bouncy, with firm tannins and herbal flavors of licorice root, spice, coconuty oak and black fruits. On the finish, it's all about coconut and chocolate.
This medium-bodied Syrah is silky in texture, those soft tannins framing plummy fruit notes and hints of cracked pepper and licorice. The oak is integrated almost perfectly into the wine, leaving an impression of almost pristine fruit. Drink now–2020.
This medium-bodied white blend is simple, fruity and fresh, dominated by aromas and flavors of pear, pineapple and melon.
This medium-bodied white delivers mature pear, yellow apple and white peach aromas and flavors. It's riper and rounder than usual but also boasts terrific freshness and elegance for the hot vintage.
This medium-bodied white features attractive scents of lime zest and pineapple. On the palate, the flavors veer toward apple and citrus, which fade rapidly on the finish. Drink now.
This medium-bodied white features balanced oak that manages to play off flavors of baked apple and butterscotch with compelling swathes of saltiness. This wine will work well with seafood as a result, and make for a decent match with midweek meals.
This medium-bodied white is made from the Trebbiano grape in a small area between Veneto and Lombardy. It has lovely fragrances of peach blossom and Spanish broom, while the palate delivers white peach and lemon pastry flavors. It finishes crisp and clean.
This medium-bodied white opens with aromas that recall citrus blossom and stone fruit. The vibrant palate doles out creamy white peach, juicy tangerine, lime and bitter almond alongside fresh acidity. A mineral note signals the close.
This medium-bodied wine's modest grapefruit aromas and flavors are largely submerged under a layer of leafy notes reminiscent of crushed tomato stalk.
This medium-bodied wine balances pineapple fruit with bright acids and mid-range alcohol. It's a simple, citrusy quaff that finishes crisp and clean. Drink now.
This medium-bodied wine blends lively citrus and crisp apple aromas with just-rich-enough pear, apple and butter flavors for good balance. Satisfying and refreshing, it will be great with many different dishes.
This medium-bodied wine boasts aromas reminiscent of trading-card bubble gum. Is that even still a thing? It's vaguely cherry-like, with hints of baby powder, yet completely dry and refreshing, with a crisp, clean finish. Drink now.
This medium-bodied wine brings delicate floral aromas and tangy white-cherry flavors, along with a full mouthfeel and appetizingly dry finish. Hints of earth and mineral add interest, complementing the fruit flavors.
This medium-bodied wine climbs several notches up the quality scale from a typical California AVA Chardonnay. It blends ripe pear and butter aromas, pleasing peach and pear flavors, a texture that is soft and easy, and a slightly buttery finish.
This medium-bodied wine combines first impressions of bright raspberry aromas and flavors with a deeper, richer black cherry character on the palate. The texture is vivid; firm acidity and tannins provide appetizing mouthfeel.
This medium-bodied wine combines grilled cherries with meaty, savory notes. It's not the biggest, baddest or boldest, but it is nicely harmonious and fruit-forward, with a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink it over the next year or two.
This medium-bodied wine comes across as a bit plump in the mouth, delivering plenty of pineapple, white grapefruit and nectarine flavors that firm up nicely on the dry, lingering finish.
This medium-bodied wine comes off as pure and focused. It shows bright and concentrated fruit aromas and delicious red cherry and raspberry flavors. The refreshing texture derives from the firm tannins and energizing acidity.
This medium-bodied wine conveys fragrances of yellow flowers and exotic fruit. The palate offers ripe apple, mature pear and white peach alongside fresh acidity. It closes on an almond note.
This medium-bodied wine displays a distinctive aroma similar to that of bruised apples. On the palate, it's dry and inoffensive, offering up hints of melon and citrus.
This medium-bodied wine doesn't reveal a lot of richness on the palate, yet still offers fruit-driven notes of Bing cherries and fresh greens. It's clean and refreshing on the finish.
This medium-bodied wine doesn't show much of the variety's mouthfeel, but does show clean, dry flavors of melon and citrus. Enjoy it now through the end of 2016.
This medium-bodied wine features a heavy dose of baking spices and vanilla layered atop notions of earth and red cherries. It's a little dry and woody, but cinnamon and clove notes add charm.
This medium-bodied wine features aromas of green apple and crushed stone, while the flavors turn citrusy, veering toward lime and grapefruit. It's nicely silky in texture, while a hint of snow pea marks the finish.
This medium-bodied wine features classic apple-and-citrus Chardonnay aromas and flavors, just tinged with floral notes and a touch of spice. It's fresh and clean, good as a predinner drink or with simply grilled fish or chicken.
This medium-bodied wine features fresh cherry aromas accented by hints of vanilla. While it doesn't offer much in the way of complexity, it does deliver ripe fruit, a soft texture and a realistic price tag. Drink now.
This medium-bodied wine features plenty of pungent, boxwood-like scents and musky, herbal flavors. Thankfully, there's enough melon and fig to compensate and the wine finishes with a pleasant touch of anise.
This medium-bodied wine has a classic aroma of cherries, tea and spice, plus a rich mouthfeel, deep flavors and good balance. It's nicely made and easy to enjoy.
This medium-bodied wine has a compelling blend of restraint and power. It offers modest, fruity aromas at first, then nice tart fruit flavors that start off lean and soon expand exponentially in the mouth before tapering off elegantly on the finish. With little oak flavor in the way, it gives pure Pinot sophistication.
This medium-bodied wine has a delicious blend of savory aromas and flavors including pepper, mushroom and beef stock that jazz up the mild grapey flavors underneath. Almost the opposite of a fruit bomb, this has lots of complexity from those secondary characters.
This medium-bodied wine has a light color, earthy and herbal scents, a tart cherry flavor and a dry finish.
This medium-bodied wine has a relatively light-garnet color and a touch of cloudiness that is accompanied by complex and attractive aromas blending cinnamon, clove, rhubarb and light wood smoke. These layered nuances flow into the flavors and fill the mouth with black-cherry and sour-cherry notes that are ripe but not too ripe, so the wine has fine balance.
This medium-bodied wine has a slightly dusty mouthfeel, which gives its palate just enough shape to highlight the flavors of dried dark-skinned fruit. It's a little pruney, but would probably work fine with stews or hard cheeses.
This medium-bodied wine has a surprisingly firm texture from crisp acidity and a relative abundance of tannin. It shows tasty, tart cherry and cranberry flavors, and an astringent finish. A little age should smooth it out by late 2015 and beyond.
This medium-bodied wine has a vivid smoky aroma that gives way to fresh strawberry and raspberry notes on the palate. It feels juicy, slightly tart and light.
This medium-bodied wine has a vivid, fresh raspberry aroma and deep blackberry flavors supported by firm tannins. It tastes like a cool-climate example because of the vivid fruit, layered tannins and good acidity, which make it well balanced in the style of classic dry reds.
This medium-bodied wine has an abundance of spices in its aromas and flavors, along with a smooth texture and good balance between acidity and ripeness. The fruit flavors are plummy and straightforward and the easy drinkability is undeniable.
This medium-bodied wine has an earthy aroma, muted cherry flavors and a smooth enough texture. It is good and drinkable.
This medium-bodied wine has an earthy edge and a good core of cherry and plum flavors. A touch of barnyard in the aroma, and earthy, leathery flavors accompany a very smooth and relatively light mouthfeel.
This medium-bodied wine has aromas of white flower, apple and toast. The palate offers dried apple, vanilla, lemon drop and oak-driven spice. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit.
This medium-bodied wine has aromas that suggest strawberry jam and maple syrup, and equally fruity and ripe flavors. Touches of vanilla and chocolate add a bit of unctuous complexity, and the mouthfeel is velvety.
This medium-bodied wine has bold aromas of black pepper, tobacco and clove that merge with straightforward cherry and herb flavors for a nicely complex profile. It has way more depth and interest than the price tag would suggest.
This medium-bodied wine has dried herb and black olive aromas, fresh raspberry and cherry flavors that are a bit tart and a tangy balance. It's not overly big in style, but is bright and well-suited to go with a wide variety of foods.
This medium-bodied wine has earthy, almost salty aromas, good acidity, herb and melon flavors and a fresh mouthfeel. Its sea-breeze character suggests seafood as a good pairing.
This medium-bodied wine has fresh fruity and lightly spicy aromas, with a lively texture due to reasonable acidity and tannins. Flavors do a good job of balancing raspberry and cherry with slightly oaky vanilla and nutmeg.
This medium-bodied wine has fresh red cherry and strawberry aromas followed by light cherry and plum flavors, very mild tannins and a rather soft texture.
This medium-bodied wine has lightly spicy aromas, good, mouthfilling fruit flavors and a smooth texture. Words like suave and velvety come to mind. It's a very nice effort for the winery's first Barbera.
This medium-bodied wine has low-key fruit and herb flavors, and a reasonably smooth texture. A touch of earthiness runs from aroma to finish.
This medium-bodied wine has meaty aromas followed by red cherry and cranberry flavors that turn sharp on the finish. It has a dry feel in the mouth, is balanced toward acidity, and has quite stiff tannins.
This medium-bodied wine has modest fruit and herb aromas and similarly subdued flavors. It is clean and straightforward.
This medium-bodied wine has more earthy and floral flavors than straightforward fruit, so it's something a bit different. Well-priced and easy to drink, it can please a crowd.
This medium-bodied wine has personality. It smells like pencil shavings, black tea and plums, and tastes like prunes and pomegranate juice, finishing with that same spicy, tea-like character. The texture is smooth and the balance is good.
This medium-bodied wine has ripe and semisweet flavors like cherry juice and plum jam that give a soft impression on the palate.
This medium-bodied wine has ripe plum and cherry-candy aromas. Equally fruity flavors are accented by some oak spice, with pretty good balance from mild tannins and acidity.
This medium-bodied wine has soft tannins and attractive acidity. It is still young with good potential to age for a short time more. From vines planted on one of the high terraces above the Lot river, it has a cool fragrant aftertaste. Drink from 2018.
This medium-bodied wine has veggie and grapefruit aromas and unapologetic herbal flavors on a fairly crisp texture.
This medium-bodied wine has very subtle aromas and flavors, a fairly smooth texture, and an ever-so-slightly buttery accent. It offers a slim personality to enjoy.
This medium-bodied wine hits all the requisite Sauvignon Blanc marks. Herbal? Check. Passion fruit? Check. Crisp, mouthwatering finish? Check. It's a reasonably good value, especially if you can find it discounted.
This medium-bodied wine is a bit austere and crisp, with cherry fruit accented by hints of mint and beetroot.
This medium-bodied wine is a great value and strikes a good balance between pure fruitiness and more complexity. It has friendly cherry and berry aromas and fairly rich flavors. A smooth, lightly tannic texture adds the right bite.
This medium-bodied wine is a pleasant, tart-berry quaff, with hints of berry herbal tea, dusty wood and sour cherries. Look for this bottling to improve in subsequent vintages, as Cloudy Bay is now in complete control of the vineyard.
This medium-bodied wine is a stylistic departure from the stereotypical Aussie stainless-steel Sauvignon Blanc, being fermented and aged in old French oak barrels for eight months. The result is a citrusy wine with greater depth and richer texture, even some leesy, slightly toasty notes that complement rather than overwhelm the fruit. Drink now–2010, but it could surprise and develop even more interest over time.
This medium-bodied wine is already drinking optimally, with a core of red fruit streaked with cola, earth, graphite and citrus notes. Only four barrels were produced.
This medium-bodied wine is dry and crisp, showing light dried herb, celery and nut aromas. Lively citrus flavors are tinged with earthiness and a tangy texture.
This medium-bodied wine is easy-going and easy to drink. It smells and tastes like raspberries and red grapes, feels soft in texture and has a mellow fruitiness.
This medium-bodied wine is firm and moderately tannic. It has strong oaky spice aromas and ripe raspberry and cherry flavors, liberally accented with more oaky spices such as cinnamon, vanilla and coconut.
This medium-bodied wine is fresh and fruity, but also polished and sophisticated. It smells like raspberries and black plums, then adds chocolate and blackberry in the flavors. Rich and flavorful it also has welcome firm tannins and fruit acidity to keep it lively. Grenache is the leading grape ingredient.
This medium-bodied wine is high-toned in red fruit and tannin, a mix of cedar, black currant and blackberry that broods in the French wood it spent almost two years resting within, 60% of it new. Small percentages of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc are in the blend.
This medium-bodied wine is like a liquid fruit bowl, pouring out apple, melon, peach and banana flavors that taste almost sweet. It has a broad mouthfilling texture, a rather soft balance and a lingering fruity finish.
This medium-bodied wine is marked by dry, stony notes rather than a profusion of fruit. Subtle leafiness and hints of underripe melon give this a restrained aspect and suggest it's more of a food partner than a wine that will shine on its own.
This medium-bodied wine is rich and dessert-sweet, with the warm, lush feel of the Barossa. Candied pineapple and dried pear aromas and flavors turn honeyed and long on the finish. Ready to drink.
This medium-bodied wine is taut, firm and wiry. Floral notes dress up black cherries and vanilla before ending on a crisp, slightly edgy note. Give it another year or two to round into form and drink it through 2021.
This medium-bodied wine is tightly structured and bracingly acidic, yet doesn't lack for ripeness or fruit. Guava, gooseberry and grapefruit are all present from aromatic start to lengthy, focused finish. It's a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to some of Marlborough's softer styles of Sauvignon Blanc.
This medium-bodied wine is very floral for a red. It smells like roses and raspberries, tastes exuberantly fruity and has a juicy, lightly tannic texture.
This medium-bodied wine is very fruity in aroma, and exudes ripe pear and fig flavors. Add in creamy vanilla accents and a very soft texture and the effect is almost sweet.
This medium-bodied wine is well made, well balanced and offers good complexity from earthy spicy notes as well as solid, attractive fruit flavors at its core, including black cherry and raspberry. The texture is smooth and has a good nip of tannin to cleanse the palate.
This medium-bodied wine is well rounded in texture. The touch of sweet pear in the flavors gives counterpoint to herb and fennel aromas and some citrusy acidity.
This medium-bodied wine is worth exploring. It's made from a grape variety popular in Italy and has attractive earth and sage aromas and cherry flavors liberally sprinkled with mineral and leather accents. A light coating of tannins boosts the mouthfeel.
This medium-bodied wine offers ample fresh fruit flavors and a smooth texture that's not too tannic or tight on the palate. It smells like red cherries and plums, tastes almost like strawberries, and carries that fruity freshness through the finish. It's a well-made wine to enjoy soon.
This medium-bodied wine offers an elegant, silky mouthfeel. Some yeasty-dough aromas add interest to the pineapple and tangerine flavors, which linger delicately on the finish.
This medium-bodied wine offers enticing flavors and good presence on the palate. The aromas are like forest floor, oolong tea, and ripe black cherries, while the flavors layer cherry, cranberry and clove. A firm texture carries all that flavor through the finish and keeps the taste refreshing.
This medium-bodied wine offers some of Pinot Gris' peppery spice, just enough to enliven the pear and citrus fruit elements. Hints of wet stone add complexity to the aromas, while the spice lingers on the finish.
This medium-bodied wine opens with a fruity aroma of spiced plum and mature dark berry. The easygoing palate delivers ripe blackberry, nutmeg and licorice alongside supple tannins.
This medium-bodied wine opens with a squeeze of acidity and follows through with simple and straightforward citrus flavors.
This medium-bodied wine opens with aromas of meat juice, tobacco leaf, plum and blackberry. The warm, forward palate offers juicy black cherry, thyme, espresso and toasted notes alongside round but present tannins. This is already extremely approachable, so enjoy soon.
This medium-bodied wine piles strong smoky, savory flavors on a relatively light frame to give a lot of taste impact without heaviness. Aromas are like tobacco and black olive, turning to licorice and dark berries on the palate.
This medium-bodied wine shows a remarkable evolution on the palate, where it accelerates through tight, reined-in notions of gun flint and vague leafiness to pinwheels of pink grapefruit and tomato leaf by the long finish.
This medium-bodied wine shows almost tobacco-like scents to go along with tropical fruit on the nose. It's leafy and green, with modest passion-fruit flavors and a moderately long finish.
This medium-bodied wine shows an array of smoky, meaty aromas, along with ripe plum and tart blackberry flavors. Not at all overripe, but made with some restraint, it allows savory flavors like tarragon and anise to peek through. The blend includes 9% Cabernet Sauvignon.
This medium-bodied wine shows hints of mint and cedar in the aroma, and light cherry and raspberry in the flavor. It's pretty nicely balanced and user friendly.
This medium-bodied wine smells a bit like a bouquet of pineapple, sage and lemony thyme. On the palate, the wine is restrained and citrusy, with a clean, refreshing finish.
This medium-bodied wine smells light and herbal. It gets deeper and richer on the palate as ripe golden-apple flavors kick in and the texture seems to spread out.
This medium-bodied wine smells like a cherry pie, tastes quite ripe and fruity, and has a smooth texture and lightly sweet finish.
This medium-bodied wine smells like herbs and flowers, tastes softly fruity, is easy to drink and plummy in flavor.
This medium-bodied wine smells sugary and floral, but tastes quite dry. Flavors are fruity but spare and the mouthfeel is taut.
This medium-bodied wine smells sweet but tastes dry. Vivid fruit aromas and flavors, and a lively, tangy mouthfeel add lots of personality. It smells like apples and honey and tastes like crisp apples and citrus.
This medium-bodied wine successfully blends several disparate notes into a harmonious whole. Hints of just-turned earth, cola, root vegetables, clove and fresh greens join on the nose, while the palate adds fruitier overtones of red cherries and berries. The tannins are silky, the acids vibrant.
This medium-bodied wine takes a path less traveled, offering enticing flavors and good presence on the palate. The aromas are like forest floor, oolong tea, and ripe black cherries, while the flavors layer cherry, cranberry and clove. A firm texture carries all that flavor through the finish and keeps the taste refreshing.
This medium-bodied wine takes all the elements you might find in a tack room—liniment, bandages, sweaty leather—and adds red cherry fruit and a silky texture. It's interesting, complex and enjoyable, ready to drink now through 2020.
This medium-bodied wine walks its own path, smelling like flowers, honey and ripe peaches. It tastes fresh, nicely tart, lightly tannic and floral, making for an adventurous and energizing path to take.
This medium-bodied wine with lightly-ripened red berry fruit flavors is a great showing for the winery's regular bottling. Light touches of herb, cola and earth carry through the finish.
This medium-bodied wine would be a fine accompaniment to weekday burgers. It's a bit simple, but fruity, supple and pleasant, ending with some soft tannins. Drink now.
This medium-bodied, affordably priced wine offers a wealth of juicy red fruit with soft layers of tannin. It was aged in unobtrusive oak, 25% of it new.
This medium-bodied, cheerful blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah displays likeable peppery notes accenting bright cherry fruit. It's dangerously easy to drink. Best now and over the next year or so.
This medium-bodied, easygoing red offers aromas of blue flowers, dark berry, underbrush and a whiff of cake spice. The palate delivers blackberry, red currant, ground pepper and a note of star anise alongside firm, refined tannins. An almond note backs up the finish.
This medium-bodied, luminous red boasts a pretty fragrance of blue flowers and wild berry. The vibrant, easy-drinking palate doles out crushed raspberry, wild cherry and a hint of clove alongside racy acidity. Enjoy through 2016.
This medium-bodied, middle-of-the-road wine has some leafy notes that add complexity to straightforward passion-fruit aromas and flavors, which fade quickly on the finish.
This medium-bodied, nicely firm and approachable red shows cherry, cassis, tobacco and black olive along a juicy core of grippy texture.
This medium-bodied, silky-textured Chardonnay offers hints of pineapple and yellow plum on the nose and palate. It's clean and refreshing on the finish, just what's wanted in this easy-to-like price range. Drink now.
This medium-bodied, silky-textured rosé features modestly confected aromas of bubble gum and cotton candy, which give way on the palate to vinous notes of cherry and wet stone. Drink up.
This medium-bodied, silky-textured wine lacks some of the positive green notes typical of Marlborough, but makes up for it with ample stone fruit, gooseberry and red currant aromas and flavors.
This medium-bodied, silky blend should drink well through at least 2018. Despite the soft texture, it's made in a savory style, with notes of leather, roasted meat and ground spices backed by just enough cherry and plum fruit.
This medium-bodied, slightly dusty-textured wine is a solid value. Intensely floral notes reminiscent of iris and violets mark the nose, lifting the bright cherry and raspberry fruit even further. Drink it over the next few years.
This medium-bodied, small-production red was given a light touch of oak, only 25% of it new and French, allowing the other characteristics to speak louder than the wood. Compact tannins support a juicy, youthfully grippy frame of pomegranate and orange that opens further in the glass.
This medium-bodied, spicy wine, with a gorgeous ruby color, has tart, sour cherry flavors with rich acidity. It's extremely dry and racy, and turns almost sour on the finish because of the acids, but it's a pleasant sensation. —S.H.
This medium-bodied, succulent wine blends three varieties into a complex and harmonious whole. Melon, stone fruit and grapefruit flavors are tinged with hints of peppery-gingery spice, then end long and mouthwatering.
This medium-bodied, supple wine is laced with notes of hickory smoke, mushroom and ripe cherries. It's pleasantly jammy, with just enough savory and structural elements to keep its fruity side in check. Drink now–2017.
This medium-bodied, unbaked wine has light butter and fig aromas that lead to vivid citrus flavors and a good crisp balance. The wine is nicely dry, well-balanced and refreshing.
This medium-bodied, understated wine has a rather light red color with brown undertones. It offers subtle earthy and smoky aromas, tart fruit flavors like cranberries, and an appropriately tannic texture. While its flavors are subtle, the balance is great and this wine stayed fresh for three days after opening.
This medium-bodied, well-priced wine from a consistent brand has traditional touches like a lightly smoky, spicy cherry aroma, a gently tannic texture and satisfying ripe cherry and plum flavors.
This medium-dry Champagne is attractively structured and really fruity. It does have something of the mineral texture of a drier Champagne that is contrasted with apricot and honey highlights. It is ready to drink.
This medium-dry Chenin is deliciously ripe while still light and very fruity. Currant flavors give a juicy character, accented by honey and crisp apples. Fruity now, the wine will become richer and bring out almonds and a more textured character. Drink from 2017.
This medium-dry Muscat has aromas of white flowers and lemon blossoms. On the palate there are flavors of honeysuckle, peach and lime juice.
This medium-dry spätlese balances savory with sweet. Initially earthy, mineral tones build to plumper peach and pear through the midpalate. It's gossamer in texture, but finishes strong with a polished strike of steel and acid.
This medium-dry wine is fresh, crisp and fruity with ripe, creamy apples, honey and fine acidity. It is well balanced, the sweetness just giving the fruit a lift while keeping all its freshness.
This medium-dry wine is rich and rounded. It has concentrated flavors of spice, mango, crisp lime and ripe apple. Full-bodied and rounded, it has a good shot of acidity.
This medium-dry wine layers attractive spice and lychee notes with a soft, warm texture. There's a spring in the stride of this fragrant wine, its acidity adding just the right sharp edge.
This medium-dry wine offers a drier core of spice and pepper. Around this, yellow fruits and creamed pears come to the fore. The wine is ready to drink now, although it will be worth waiting until 2016.
This medium-pink rosé is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre and 20% Cinsault. A silken texture easily carries restrained fruit shadings of strawberry and kiwi, along with plummier undertones, through a long finish. Ready to drink now, although it might still be a pleasant surprise come 2015.
This medium-pink rosé shows some heft but is mostly about refreshment. Passion fruit and peach notes give way to citrus zest on its crisp, vibrant finish. Drink now.
This medium-sized négociant is making an effort at upgrading its wines, and this is a solid example. Thyme and bay leaf notes mark the black cherry fruit, picking up hints of black tea that turn dusty and dry on the finish. A bit stern for the vintage, it should be consumed over the next couple of years before the fruit fades.
This medium-straw-colored wine has aromas of citrus blossoms and lemon zest with just a whiff of sea mist. It opens up with flavors of peach, apricot and a touch of salt on the tip of your tongue. It's got great minerality and a crisp finish.
This medium-straw-colored wine is a blend of 40% Muscat, 30% Viognier, 15% Sémillon and 15% Sauvignon Blanc. Lemon-lime aromas with touches of petrol set the stage for flavors of lemon-lime sorbet, rose petal and jasmine. It is very soft on the palate, with citrus playing second fiddle to floral flavors.
This medium-sweet blend of Feteasca Regala and Riesling has aromas of honeysuckle and lemon blossom. There are flavors of peach and pineapple in the mouth, with a floral touch on the finish.
This medium-sweet offering has aromas of lime leaf and jasmine that lead to apricot and floral flavors. There's not a lot of complexity but it offers easy drinking enjoyment.
This medium-sweet proposition takes off on silky wings of lemony freshness. The interplay thus created spells fun and balance. Citric freshness is the decisive, playful, enjoyable factor here.
This medium-sweet rosé is a familiar style of local Portuguese wine. Fruity with raspberry flavor, it gives a slight a prickle on the tongue and has lively acidity. Drink now.
This medium-sweet rosé is bursting with ripe strawberry aromas and flavors. It is soft, just edged by crispness and ready to drink with its light, fruity finish.
This medium-sweet sparkling wine is soft and rounded. It has an attractive mousse, with some fresh acidity to give the sweetness a lift. The aftertaste is clean and fruity.
This medium-sweet wine brings aromas of acacia flowers and lemon lime zest to the fore. In the mouth there are flavors of honeycomb, lemon and acacia flower. The finish is delightful and slightly sweet.
This medium-sweet wine has an attractively honeyed character and fragrant, spicy fruit. There's also a fine lift of acidity, giving some brightness to an otherwise rich wine.
This medium-sweet wine is attractively perfumed, with a good balance between exotic spice and fragrant acidity. The wine is soft and immediately drinkable. Screwcap.
This medium-sweet wine is hugely spicy and rich. It has lychee, tropical fruit and vanilla flavors, yielding a wine that is a meal on its own. Drink now.
This medium-sweet wine is rich, with all the tropical fruit flavors expected from Gewurztraminer. It's perfumed, full-bodied and ripe, while conserving some acidity. It needs a few months, so drink from the end of 2015.
This medium-sweet wine shows the weight of the clay soils in the vineyard. It's rich, full of spice with a touch of honey as well as lychee and pomegranate. The wine is ready to drink, although it will be better from 2016.
This medium-sweet, fruity wine has just the right amount of sparkle. It's as bright as a spring day, with a touch of crispness to keep it fresh.
This medium-sweet, fruity wine is both light and crisp. Attractive acidity contrasts with the sparkling texture and the sugared citrus. It's very ready to drink.
This medium-tawny wine made from Jacquez offers aromas of dried fig and salty maple-drizzled bacon. The silky, full palate follows suit, with toasted nuts adding an additional savory character. Enjoy this nicely balanced wine alongside pecan pie.
This medium-to full-bodied red from Spain's southeast sports a potent, inviting nose. Black plum, soy, leather and oak merge in an appealing, inky opening. The black cherry flavors are quite dry, but also rich and palate-coating. Finishes with substantial tannins. The wine should drink even better in one or two years, but should pair well with hearty fare even now. Best Buy. —M.M.
This medium-weight blend of 38% Shiraz, 26% Pinotage, 19% Cab Sauv and 17% Merlot is soft and easy-drinking now with notes of dried black currant, cherry and purple florals alongside fine tannins.
This medium-weight Cabernet displays plum, slightly candied cherry and a little smoke on the nose and palate. Well-balanced with good persistence, this is an easy, pleasing glass of red that's ready to drink now.
This medium-weight Chard is fresh and mildly dusty smelling, with aromas of pear and apple. The palate is lifted, fresh in feel and offers punchy acidity in front of lime, gooseberry and herb flavors. For under $20, this is nicely made and hints at elegance.
This medium-weight Pinot Noir has a whiff of the chicken yard among its aromas, but the well-ripened cherry fruit at the core more than compensates. There's a hint of peach-skin phenolics, and the finish has enough stuffing to keep from fading too quickly. A good sipper for the near term.
This medium-weight red's berry fruit and saddle leather accents can't rise above a tart, even sour, herb-vegetal note that appears early and remains throughout. Shows modest tannins and a little length on the back end, but the odd note prevails. —M.M.
This medium-weight rosé offers rich aromas and flavors of honeydew, hard strawberry and cherry, with additional hints of yellow flowers and garrigue herbs on the nose. Ample acidity keeps the palate fresh and lifted, finishing somewhat prickly and mouthwatering.
This medium-weight selection offers concentrated aromas and flavors of black currant and blackberry laced with accents of pepper and earthy spice. There's a bit of bite to the moderate tannins, while hints of tobacco leaf and cocoa nib spice up the finish.
This medium-weight Shiraz features subtle campfire notes from start to finish, underscoring its cherry and mint aromas and flavors. Fresh and friendly, it features a soft dusting of tannins on the finish. Drink it now and over the next few years.
This medium-weight wine flows effortlessly from start to finish, blending aromas of smoke and nuts with a citrusy core. Picks up savory nutty, cheesy notes (like a good Gruyère) on the long finish.
This medium-weight wine is a blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, and the resulting wine admirably reflects elements of each variety. Treebark notes on the nose from the Mourvèdre, boysenberries from the Grenache and black olives from the Syrah. With its mild tannins, it's drinkable now through 2020.
This medium-weight wine shows a crispness of style and provenance. Caramelized oak is softened and made fruity by the taste of apple skin and pear. Stony mineral is given additional freshness by layers of lemon peel and orange zest, finishing focused and clean.
This medium-weight wine starts off with wonderfully pure, expressive aromas of ripe passion fruit. On the palate, it's a bit prickly and leafy at first, like tomato stalks or nettle leaves. It then settles back down into tropical fruit on the long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
This medium-weight, slightly austere Riesling boasts aromas of struck flint and lime, with flavors of citrus and underripe stone fruit. Drink it now with raw oysters.
This medium-weight, slightly creamy rosé opens with soft aromas of white cherry, peach, cantaloupe and cranberry. The melony flavors continue through to the palate, while the finish offers an astringent citrus-pith flavor. Drink now.
This medium sweet wine has attractive yellow fruit and mango flavors. It's soft, with a touch of honey and crisper lemon juice accents. Drink now.
This medium sweet wine is indeed quite sweet even on the nose, where honey, apple blossoms and night jasmine aromas show. There is tingling acidity to the sip that cuts through the strong sweetness. Would pair well with a rich pork dish.
This medium sweet, easy drinker brings aromatic and flavorful notes of pear, jasmine and white flowers.
This medium weight Chardonnay offered aromas of overripe pineapple and citrus with an odd note somewhere between citrus and varnish. The apple and mild citrus flavors lack vitality, and turn overly tart on the finish.
This medium weight example shows Pinotage fruit in a forward, correct manner. Tart plum and berry, cherry, and leather aromas abound. Earth and dried plum flavors on the palate are kept lively by decent acidity; touches of tart red berry, rhubarb and anise show on the moderately long finish.
This medum-bodied red opens with a sumptuous note of dark cherry, almost of Amarena. The palate is taut but still carries that lovely aromatic richness. Unusual and slender but balanced and intriguing.
This mellow, moderately fruity wine has berry and wet-earth aromas, mild strawberry and spice flavors and a soft texture.
This mellow, well-balanced wine hits the mark between almost-sweet fruit flavors, subtle oak influence and a firm, lightly tannic texture. Medium to full bodied, it smells lightly spicy, feels sleek on the palate and has a lingering finish.
This mellowed-out red is ready to drink now. A good level of flavor complexity and a layered texture that is smooth but firm with tannins make this medium-bodied Merlot tasty. It feels so soothing and appetizing that one forgives the fruit and spice notes for being subtle.
This memorably beautiful and delicious wine is made from estate-grown Grenache. The grapes weren't designated for saignee, but rather picked specifically to make this tart and tangy expression of an inviting grape. Orange in color, almost like a beer, it's dry and sneakily succulent, with inviting floral aromas at its core and enough body to stay interesting as it develops.
This Mencía is grapy smelling, with rubbery, leathery accents. In the mouth, this feels grabby but juicy. Berry and bright plum flavors are also rubbery, while this is choppy on the finish, with peppery, spicy, toasty notes.
This Mencía is offering up a pretty combo of earth, cola, graphite and black-fruit aromas. The palate pops with lush berry fruit balanced by darkness and weight; flavors of tobacco, earth, berry and cedar impress, while a mossy finish that's long and elegant carries clout but isn't too bullish. Drink through 2016.
This Mencía smells earthy and a bit stalky. In the mouth, it's grabby along the edges but hollow in the middle. Tomato and herbal red-fruit flavors simmer on the finish with spice notes and raw red-fruit flavors.
This merchant house, with labels that carry a classic Frenchman's mustache, has made a soft rounded wine with attractive red-berry fruits. It is juicy and full of acidity that finishes the wine with a crisp aftertaste.
This Meritage blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cab Franc, 4% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot, and barrel aged for a couple of years. Dark, sappy, loaded with ripe cassis and black cherry fruit, perfect, silky tannins, juicy acids, this Bordeaux blend is beautifully integrated and will age for many more years.
This Meritage is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller additions of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Tasting quite ripe, it has a burnt sage and cedar undertone. Tannins hit on the back of the palate with power and not much finesse.
This Meritage of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc offers a taste of blackberry jam and heady tannins, a bit much for the table but appropriate as a cocktail wine dense in fruit.
This Meritage red blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 12% Malbec. The fruit flavors are pure and focused, and the wine opens beautifully with tangy boysenberry, plum and wild cherry. The acids carry it aloft, and the tannins, just slightly hinting at green tea, are polished and firm. Though it finishes with some herbal flavors, it is satisfying throughout.
This Meritage red is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Petit Verdot. There are noticeable high toned aromas hinting at nail polish. The fruit is bright cherry and darker black currant, with milk chocolate coating the finish. The wine is still tightly wound and opens very slowly, so decanting is recommended.
This Merlot's soft mouthfeel and mellow tannins make it fine for everyday drinking. It has stylish flavors of cherries and red licorice, and is beginning to show its age.
This Merlot-based blend is dry, hard in tannins and brisk in acids. It has an intense core of blackberries, black currants and oak. Ready to drink now, it needs rich, oily foods, like short ribs, to cut through the astringency.
This Merlot-based Bordeaux-style blend is upfront and delicious in cherry and blackberry jam, chocolate, red currant, bacon and sweet oak flavors. Most of the appeal is right there on the surface, but it does contain a level of complexity and balance that adds to the point score.
This Merlot-based rosé is a bit on the sweet side. It's juicy and simple, with red plum fruit that finishes with enough acidity for balance.
This Merlot-based rosé offers up some slightly herbal notes of thyme and bay leaf, then complements those with understated cherry—berry fruit. It's medium in weight, yet finishes with vibrant acidity. Still hanging in there, but drink up.
This Merlot-based rosé smells cheesy and not all that fruity. Chunky and obtuse on the palate, this tastes of generic citrus and berry fruits. An adequate finish is par for the course.
This Merlot-Cabernet-Vranec blend offers an appealing, easydrinking array of warming spice, dark berries and spice on the nose and palate. Full in the mouth with a fruity character backed by acid and spice, it will pair well with veal or pork.
This Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend is all fruit, black currants with fresh acidity. The tannins are still young and firm, and need to soften. Fresh and fruity, the wine will develop quickly and can be drunk from late 2016.
This Merlot-centric wine brings aromas of herbs, soy and dried raisins, seeminlyg a bit past it prime. The flavors are lightly and the tannins seem dried out. Drink now.
This Merlot-dominant red blend displays classic Yakima Valley flavors that are well-integrated and balanced for medium-term (6–8 years) aging. The fruit is on the tart side, with accents of earth and herb. The tannins are textural and somewhat drying.
This Merlot-dominated blend features juicy berry flavors and tart, citrusy acids. It has gentle details of pepper, herb, lemon verbena and orange peel. It's a pleasure to see more elegant complexity in these latest Spring Valley reds.
This Merlot-dominated blend has resulted in a wine that is both juicy and structured. With its forward flavor of black currant juice, it is surprisingly ready to drink, although the tannins also promise aging. It's ripe and dense, while the final acidity offers a fresh finish
This Merlot-dominated blend is full of dense fruit, with a soft black currant flavor. A bite of tannin at the back gives structure and aging potential. Drink from 2019.
This Merlot-dominated blend is sourced exclusively from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard. The entry-level red blend from Baer, it's a broad, spicy, somewhat peppery wine, reflecting the cooler vintage and northern site. The listed alcohol does not show in the palate, which tilts a little toward the green side, and falls away rather quickly.
This Merlot-dominated wine brings out both the juicy fruit typical of the vintage and a tight, smoky character that lends perfume. Still young, it's firmly structured and will age well. Drink from 2020.
This Merlot-dominated wine includes 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec. Its personality has bright and brooding sides, edged with subtle sage perfume, juicy dark cherry flavors and sizable oak.
This Merlot-driven blend also includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the grapes grown on upper bench blocks of the producer's estate. It's simple, offering red cherry, currant and cedar flavors, with firm, persistent tannins and a ripe, round mouthfeel.
This Merlot-heavy blend adds an additional 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Malbec to its mix, all from a single vineyard high atop Sonoma Mountain. Dill, cucumber and cranberry combine intriguingly, before a core of juicy acidity adds buoyancy to the mix.
This Merlot-Zinfandel blend is very dry, full-bodied and rustic, with blackberry, currant, herb and cedar flavors that have bitter tobacco notes on the finish. Good with everyday fare.
This Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend sees 16 months in barrique; the result is redolent of chocolate, roasted coffee bean, vanilla and dried herbs backed by lovely fresh blueberry and blackberry. It's creamy and smooth in the mouth with very good freshness and length.
This Merlot currently offers a dry palate and firm tannins. As it warms in the glass, subtle blackberry, cola and pepper notes emerge. It's pretty tightly wound for a Merlot, but it's attractively priced and should soften with a little time to breathe.
This Merlot defines the concept of party wine. It's clean, crisp and ripe, with cherries, cola and toast notes.
This Merlot excels beyond its bargain classification by showing purity and a high level of fruit quality. The bouquet exudes plum, chocolate and some creaminess, while the palate bursts with blackberry, bitter chocolate and espresso. Round and satisfying, with enough structure to last a year or two—or until the next vintage comes around.
This Merlot from Cortona features aromas that are on the ripe side and recall blackberry and strawberry preserves with accents of white peppercorn and vine-ripened tomato. The tannins are thick and sandy.
This Merlot from one of Greece's most exciting producers offers aromas of plum, black cherry and vanilla on the nose, followed by smooth, integrated flavors of black fruit, cinnamon, pepper and a spin of mint on the finish. Layered and elegant, with good acidity for food pairing.
This Merlot gets going with scratchy berry and plum aromas that come alongside roasted overtones. Choppy and tannic on the palate, this is short on flavors, with baked, loamy berry notes leading to a lightly herbal, briny tasting finish.
This Merlot gets your basic dry, full-bodied red wine job done in an inexpensive way. It has raisiny flavors and lots of crunchy acidity.
This Merlot has a fair splash of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. It does not shy away from underbrush accents of leaf and herb, adding complexity to the cherry fruit.
This Merlot has a nose of violets, cherry cola and talc powder. In the mouth, it tastes like red berries, blackberries and finishes with touch of milk chocolate.
This Merlot has good plum and cherry flavors up front and is straightforward enough to pair with just about any food, but the finish falls a bit flat.
This Merlot has less than ripe green mint flavors along with the cherries and oak. It's fully dry, with a nice acid-tannin balance.
This Merlot has not fully ripened, with aromas of bell pepper, green herbs and savory notes overriding any sense of variety. Flavors are faint and lighter in style, trailing on the finish.
This Merlot has small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petite Sirah. It's fairly tannic, with a trace of stewy greenness in the background.
This Merlot holds estate fruit as well as sourced grapes from several sites, creating a well-blended wine with tiny percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Aged in both French and American oak, the wine is balanced in cranberry and blackberry, with an herbaceous underbelly.
This Merlot includes 13% Syrah, along with smaller amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet. Vanilla and tobacco scents open the door to a sharp, peppery wine, with flavors cloaked in bark and scorched earth. It's rustic, big and flavorful, with a fat, meaty finish. This is the wine to go with your tri-tip.
This Merlot is as pale as a Pinot Noir, which suggests how light bodied it is. It's silky and dry in the mouth, with pleasant cherry, cola and sandalwood flavors.
This Merlot is concentrated with tart, crisp blackberry and cherry flavor, with a wisp of brambly stems on the nose and palate. It's bright with acidity and big, but velvety tannins that should allow the wine to mature well over 5–7 years.
This Merlot is dark in the glass, with lots of oak, vanilla and caramel aromas against a black-cherry and chocolate-cake backdrop on the nose. Soft and chalky tannins frame the sip, where blueberry, vanilla and chocolate-cream flavors prove lush and inviting.
This Merlot is dry and scratchy on the nose, with raspberry and spice aromas. It's fresh and clean on the palate, with a quick wave of spicy red-berry flavor. It remains spicy and a touch minty on the finish.
This Merlot is dry, firm in tannins and earthy, with cherry, currant and tobacco flavors that finish in a swirl of spice. There's a rusticity to the tannins that strongly suggests drinking now.
This Merlot is heavy, soft and ripe with candied cherry and chocolate flavors sprinkled with cinnamon and nutmeg.
This Merlot is muted aromatically. On the palate it's gigantic in tannins—big and bold for sure.
This Merlot is not a flamboyant fruit monster, but quietly controlled with firm tannins and a hint of mushrooms accenting cherries and cola. Drink it now and through 2017.
This Merlot is of everyday quality, with an easy-to-like silky texture and soft, almost sweet flavors of cherry, mocha and spice. It's not a bad value, and it should be widely available.
This Merlot is okay for everyday drinking, but it's pretty simple. It has modest cherry flavors, with some green, vegetal notes.
This Merlot is round, soft and mellow, with ripe, luscious flavors of cherry pie, mocha, honey and toasty oak, along with a hint of spice. Considering the large production of 36,000 cases and the price, it's quite an achievement.
This Merlot is so gently extracted it's almost Pinot Noir-like, with delicate cherry and beet aromas and a noticeable herbal tinge to the dark cherry fruit.
This Merlot is soft and very rich in forward fruit. The flavors range from cherry jam, red currants and anise to melted milk chocolate and the buttered toast and spice of oak. Seems fully ready to drink now.
This Merlot is soft, simple and seemingly sweet in fruit and oak. With ripe cherry, mocha and spice flavors, it will partner well with a cheeseburger.
This Merlot is soft, sweet in fruit and oak, and ultimately simple. But with cherry, mocha and licorice flavors, it's pleasant to drink, as long as your expectations aren't too high.
This Merlot is strong and jammy in cherries and blackberries, with some herbs and spices for interest. It's dry and crisp, a nice wine for drinking now.
This Merlot is thin and common, but dry and drinkable, with cherry, cola and oak flavors. Gulp it down with anything you like.
This Merlot is thin in body and flavor, with sour cherry and white pepper notes. Despite that, it's clean and dry.
This Merlot is very fruity and forward with persistent berry jam, cassis, anise and mocha flavors. Although the tannins are brisk, it's a wine to drink now.
This Merlot is very tannic now, which makes it hard to drink. There are considerable cherry, berry, currant, mineral and herb flavors, but they're buried under a ton of astringency. You're best off giving the wine a good four years in the cellar to let it age it a bit.
This Merlot isn't as big or tannic as VM's 2014 Reserve, but it's close in quality. Cedary oak frames Bing cherry fruit on the nose, while the palate delivers a rich, creamy texture and additional complexity in the form of vanilla, licorice and raspberry. The long, velvety finish folds in hints of dark chocolate and espresso. Drink now–2025.
This Merlot isn't very complicated, but it does have the soft juiciness you want in the variety. The flavors of cola and red cherries finish dry and spicy.
This Merlot over-delivers for the everyday price. It's bone dry and classically structured, with rich, ripe tannins and mouthwatering acidity framing flavors of cherries, red and black currants, dusty spices and cedar. Sommeliers, scoop this one up. More than 15,000 cases produced.
This Merlot remains tight, tannic and acidic. Give it credit for elegant structure, but despite some good cherry fruit, it's still a dour wine.
This Merlot requires some extended breathing time before opening up. The fruit sources include Cold Creek, Canoe Ridge and the Wahluke Slope, bringing lush cherry/berry fruit to the fore, ripened to a level just below jammy. The tannins carry a hint of green, turning a little rough in the finish.
This Merlot seems a bit lean, with herbal notes on the nose that give the wine's chocolaty richness a hint of carob instead. Dark cherries and vanilla pick up on that herbal note in the mouth, with the vanilla intensifying on the finish. Drink now.
This Merlot seems designed for folks who like their red wines with residual sugar. It's soft and sugary, with raspberry jam and oak flavors.
This Merlot smells rooty, with licorice and mint to boot. A wide, sort of flabby palate is, at its base, oaky as can be; there's also stewed plum and herbal blackberry flavors in front of a blocky, chunky finish.
This Merlot smells warm and inviting with strong aromas and flavors of black plum, jammy berry preserves and a touch of almond paste. Medium weight with good balance and a solid finish.
This Merlot starts off tough and tannic, with rich flavors of blackberries, currants and toasty oak, girded with minerals and spices and finishing totally dry. It feels elegant and balanced, showing a fine sense of control. Drink over the next 5–6 years.
This Merlot tastes hotter than than its official alcohol. A jalapeño pepper heat seems to accentuate the ripeness, so that raisins and prunes star. It's a robust, somewhat rustic wine of limited ageability, but it will pair well with strongly flavored, spicy beef stews and barbecue.
This Merlot, blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon, is oaky and fairly hot with high alcohol. But it's delicious with flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, milk chocolate and anise. A fine grilled steak will do it justice.
This Merlot, Cab and Petite Sirah blend sneaked into a very upscale Napa Cabernet tasting, and it acquitted itself very well. Dry and firm in tannins, it shows a high level of refinement, not to mention ageability. With black currant, plum, pepper and dark chocolate flavors, it's fine now and should hold and blossom for 6–8 years.
This Merlot, Cab Sauvignon and Sangioveto blend is a bit thorny and sharp because high notes of black peppercorn, cola and pine forest seem to rise above the wine's natural fruit.
This Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blend is ripe with attractive vanilla flavors from the wood aging that complement the red berry fruits. It is spicy, toasty and has a soft structure. Give it time for the wood to allow the fruit more space, but it will be a generous wine.
This Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc blend lays on intense aromas of blackberry, black currant, creamy melted chocolate, buoyant cinnamon accents and beautiful, plush renderings of spice and wood. Together, these elements achieve wonderful harmony and elevate this wine in terms of aromatic intensity. It's ready to drink now.
This Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend is a tight closed wine showing tannins rather than fruit. It will remain this way.
This Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec blend is balanced with attractive juicy acidity and red berry flavors, leaving a perfumed aftertaste. As a light wine to drink young, this Carreau family wine is attractive.
This Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot blend has a tannic character, smoky flavors and a solid structure. It is also perfumed with ripe berry fruits and a juicy taste that is developing behind the firm tannins. It's made by the same team as the Médoc Cru Bourgeois Haut Breton Larigaudière. Drink from 2016.
This mesmerizing offering has aromas of lemon curd, mineral, almond, flowers, nectarine and apple. The palate is rounded, with a lightly creamy feel while retaining a sense of vibrancy and lightness.
This Messias family vineyard is close to their main winery in Bairrada. The wine, with its proportion of Baga, is full of acidity as well as tannins and black-currant fruit. It offers a touch of saltiness as well as spice. The wine is just approaching maturity so drink from 2018.
This Messias quinta in Bairrada, in the hills away from the coast, has produced a concentrated wine, dark in tannins and black plum-skin flavor. It is dense and dry in character, with attractive acidity at the end. It's a wine to age, so drink from 2017.
This Metodo Classico rosé opens with a pale pink-peach color and delicate aromas of wild berry, raspberry, lemon zest and toasted bread. The wine is straigh forward, elegant and clean.
This Mevushal Cab offers tons of dark fruit flavors matched with milk chocolate and whole tobacco leaf spice. Straightforward and fruit- driven in the mouth with strong black plum and cherry flavors. Very drinkable with a round, soft structure and low tannins.
This Meynard family wine is ripe and soft with a smooth, creamy texture and a perfumed backdrop. It is ready to drink, full of good acidity and with a tangy, zesty texture. The aftertaste keeps that attractive perfumed character.
This mid-weight Brunello starts with a pretty fragrance of wild berries, violet and baking spices. The juicy palate delivers red cherry and black berry accented with notes of mint and white pepper alongside tight tannins. It's rather simple but very enjoyable. Drink 2015–2019.
This might be a touch volatile at first, but saucy tomato-like aromas are offset by fresh red-plum notes. A tight and tannic palate softens with time in the glass, while berry flavors carry herb and spice notes onto a lightly herbal finish.
This might be an example of a wine that's too low in alcohol (13.1%). Two bottles were tasted and both came off as very soft and a tad bland, even waxy.
This might be called banana Port, for a rich, banana flavor is what dominates. Of course, with Muscat, you will also find tangerine and orange, like a tangy sauce over the richer, creamier banana. You've got to think—pair this with a banana split? Could be the dessert of the century!
This might be one of Oregon's best Cabernet efforts to date. Yes, it's firm, with hard tannins, but time should allow that to settle down. In the meantime, there's char, road tar and caramel on the nose, while plum, cassis and chocolate dominate the rich, extracted palate. Toward the end it's the tannic structure that makes itself most felt. But again, some time in the cellar is probably all it requires.
This might be one of the best values on the market, given the quality. Equal parts pretty and funky, it's a tightly wound, savory, fruity wine that's elegant and compelling. The tannins and oak are lightly imprinted around strawberry-rhubarb and fresh-cut rose, and the texture seductively silky. This is a delicious treat of a wine that should also age.
This might be one of the most interesting wines being made in California right now, a tiny production, 12%-alcohol Graciano, a grape native to Rioja and barely found in California. The wine is bright and very European, full of white pepper, cranberry and leather notes, high in acid and very clean, though it's unfined and unfiltered. It lasts and lasts, getting better with every drop.
This might be the best value Pinot out there. Light in color and strong in Bing cherry flavor and aroma, smoothly textured and well-balanced, it's made from organic grapes to boot. A fine and rare example of a Mendocino Pinot that's not overly complicated or fussy.
This might be the most consistent Cabernet Franc you'll find. Each of the last four vintages has scored an even 90. This rendition starts with oaky, earthy aromas of plum and charcoal. This is compact and tannic on the palate, with minty blackened chocolaty berry flavors that finish with potency. Drink through 2019.
This might be the only commercial Trousseau from Argentina, and it's rusty in color, with translucence. Savory challenging aromas of orange peel and burnt orange include notes of dried cherry and fallen leaves. A tightly knit palate is home to flavors of dried cherry and plum as well as tomato sauce. A hint of maple vies with dried red-fruit flavors on a light finish that shows some elegance.
This might be the producer's most powerful and concentrated wine of the vintage. It impresses immediately for its tobacco, blackberry preserves, clove and a turn of black peppercorn that's hard to resist. Pencil lead and tar poke at the edges of the wine's huge texture, with serious weight and breadth. It finishes with a mouthwatering suppleness of juicy black fruit. Enjoy now through 2027.
This mighty Malbec opens with toasty oak, a pinch of sawdust and perfumed black fruit, vanilla and spice notes. The palate is lofty and rich, with beautiful berry and plum flavors. A smooth, sexy wine from the Uco Valley that shows that vineyard sourcing absolutely matters. Best wine from Alta Vista to date.
This mild-flavored and smooth-textured wine will be a good supporting actor at the next meal or party. It has subdued fig and baking-spice flavors, a supple mouthfeel and lightly fruity finish.
This mild-flavored wine delivers light apple, floral, almond and maraschino-cherry flavors, a smooth, soft texture and medium body. Although subtle, it does develop more complexity in the glass.
This mild-mannered wine doesn't show a lot of aromas, just light nutmeg and pear nuances, but opens up on the palate as Bosc pear, toasted almond and allspice pour out. The texture is smooth and soft and the finish tastes just slightly sweet.
This mild-mannered wine offers moderate acidity, a stony texture and Gravenstein apple and lemon highlights. Medium bodied, it finishes clean and simple.
This mild-tasting and light-bodied wine has a transparent pink color, muted fruity aromas and generic flavors. The texture is smooth and rather soft.
This mild Sauvignon Blanc offers simple citrus and passion fruit aromas in front of an oily-feeling, pulpy palate. Flavors of vinaigrette, cactus and grapefruit finish with mealy lemon and orange notes.
This mild, plump and basic Chardonnay leads with peach blossom, yeast and cured ham scents. Its melon, peach and apricot flavors hollow out on a mild, yeasty tasting finish.
This mildly aromatic blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Vermentino marries apple and lime flavors into a fresh, citrusy white that persists nicely on the finish. Drink now.
This mildly prickly, red-fruit dominated Malbec is perfectly drinkable. The nose is drying, while the palate shows red cherries and raspberry along with some forceful buttery oak. Reasonably long on the finish.
This Millesimato sparkling blend of Pinot Nero and oak-aged Chardonnay delivers a generous and creamy mouthfeel followed by refined aromas of dried fruit and baked bread. This is a beautiful wine to serve with tempura appetizers.
This mineral-dominated Malbec is dry, packed with tannins as well as black currants and wild berries. It is on the austere side, finishing with intense acidity.
This mineral-driven and white-currant-flavored wine shows as much texture as fruitiness. In the future, it will show ripe yellow and pear notes, so age for a year.
This mineral-driven Prosecco Brut has a sharp, focused quality that comes across in the sparkler's consistent perlage and its immediate aromas of white flower, stone fruit and talc powder. It has a crisp and defined mouthfeel that is reinforced by zesty acidity.
This mineral-textured wine is taut and tense. Crisp citrus and sliced-apple flavors are lifted by a touch of honey, balanced with lines of pure acidity and great poise and elegance. The bottling is young and will be better enjoyed from 2017.
This mineral, structured wine is full of lemon, crisp green apple and fragrant acidity. It's ripe while also fresh and taut. A tangy texture shoots through the wine, giving a refreshing aftertaste.
This mint and red-berry-flavored wine is still firm with tannins. The juicy black-currant character is lifted by acidity, but the dry core is persistent and likely to remain. Drink now.
This mix of 62% Pepper Bridge Vineyard Syrah and 38% Klipsun Vineyard Malbec has not entirely come together. The grapey fruit flavors and slightly stemmy tannins may ultimately complement each other, but that will require more bottle age. For the moment, give it a good decanting, or wait a couple more years before opening.
This mix of 68% Syrah, 20% Grenache and 12% Petite Sirah offers blackberry jam, lavender and cracked pepper on the nose. Tart berries show on the sip, made more serious with a tarry structure and lifted by light purple flowers and an incense element that carries through the finish.
This mix of mostly Zin with 14% Petite Sirah from a longtime source for this producer shows plenty of minerality around flavors of cinnamon stick, dark cherry and leather. Soft tannins give it approachability and juiciness that are buoyed by length.
This mix of Petit Verdot and four other red grapes is dark, slightly raisiny and jammy on the nose. In the mouth, it is ripe and ripped, with depth and density along with soft tannins. Flavors of prune, baked berry, licorice and peppery spice finish with overt herb, tobacco and chocolaty flavors. Drink this powerful, weighty blend through 2018.
This mix of Primitivo, Tempranillo and Syrah has an overripe, pruny aroma, heightened by noticeable volatility. The stewed black-fruit flavor is sharp and quick to finish.
This mixes blueberry, boysenberry and blackberry notes with a dressing of Bourbon and chocolate. Smooth and satiny, this is drinking exceptionally well at the moment.
This mixes darker shades of berry and cherry fruit, with a streak of tobacco and well-managed tannins. It's polished and carries moderate weight through the finish.
This moderately aromatic wine conveys Red Hots, baking spices and red fruit. It's on the lighter side of medium bodied, soft yet full of drawn-out blue-fruit flavors on the finish.
This moderately aromatic wine features notes of black cherry, clove and abundant high-toned herbs. A supple mouthfeel with black fruit flavors accompanies firm, dry tannins.
This moderately aromatic wine offers notes of herbs, peach and soda water. It's medium sweet with lightly spritzy fruit flavors that have an herbal tinge.
This moderately aromatic wine offers notes of pear, citrus and apricot. It drinks medium sweet with stone-fruit and citrus flavors along with spritely acidity, bringing a whole lot of appeal.
This moderately aromatic wine offers notes of yellow apple, flowers and ale. It's medium bodied with watery fruit flavors, pulling up short on the back half.
This moderately colored wine offers an unusual assortment of cherry, smoke, green wood and medicinal notes. The strawberry, cranberry and mesquite flavors are elegant, with a chalky feel.
This moderately pale wine doesn't show a lot of concentration or tannic structure, but it offers charming notes of cherry, clove and cinnamon. Drink now.
This modern-style Tempranillo is registering at max ripeness. Aromas of black fruits, raisin, tire rubber and toasty French oak project a dark outlook. In the mouth, this is tight and gripping. Flavors of blackened oak, cassis and blackberry finish firm and closed, with manageable tannins. Drink through 2025.
This modern interpretation of Dolcetto opens with plush, meaty tones of black cherry and blueberry backed by power and concentration. The finish is short, clean and tight.
This modern red from the Montalcino area of Tuscany exhibits amazing chocolate-like intensity with dark shades of espresso bean, black cherry, vanilla, incense and strawberry cola. It has so much cherry in the mouth it recalls cherry liqueur or cherry-chocolate cake.
This modern vineyard-designate Riserva offers toasted notes of spice, nut and crème caramel. There are fruit notes in there too that are surrounded by mineral and earthy shadings. The mouthfeel is gritty, firm and persistent.
This modern white starts with aromas of peach, lemon zest and tropical fruit, with a rich and rounded fruit palate. Crisp acidity finishes the wine cleanly. A versatile wine with wide appeal.
This modest Pinot Noir is pale in color and light in body, but don't discount it. Pretty notes of strawberries are attractively underlined by hints of twigs and cocoa. It turns more cranberry-like and slightly astringent on the finish. Drink now.
This modest Pinot offers light strawberry fruit, a dash of cola, and a component of earth and stem that overtakes the finish. It hints at green tannins, with a bit of brown sugar sweetness, perhaps from aging in 30% new oak.
This modestly priced Verdejo does exactly what it should: it smells nice and clean, with white-fruit aromas. It's pure and easygoing on the palate, with stony minerality, and it tastes like green apple, peach and melon, with dry pithiness to the finish. Drink now.
This Moldovan blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon is aged for 12 months in French barrels and has aromas of mint, smoke, black plum and cassis in the bouquet. In the mouth, there are flavors of black cherry preserves and black currant before the bright fruit finish.
This Moldovan Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of cherry vanilla, plum and cassis. In the mouth it has soft flavors of black currants, prunes and fresh black plums before the persistent finish.
This Moldovan Cabernet Sauvignon has strawberry jam, saddle leather and raspberry aromas. The palate is marked by smoked meat, clove and baking spice flavors that accent its fruity core.
This Moldovan Merlot has aromas of eucalyptus, dark chocolate and raspberry with flavors of cherry, black plum and a touch of baking spices. There's a nice minty lift in the midpalate, with a bright fruit finish and persistent tannins.
This Moldovan sparkling wine is made from 90% Feteasca Alba and 10% Muscat in the Charmot method. It has aromas of green apple, toast and hazelnut. In the mouth, the bubbles are pleasant and prepare your palate for flavors of apple, hazelnuts and toasted almonds.
This Moldovan white offers value and a great bang for the buck, with its fresh, fragrant nose and fun, assertive flavors. Buoyed by minerality, the citrus and spice on the palate offer clean quenching on a hot day. Not terribly elegant, but it doesn't need to be.
This Monastrell's cherry and cassis aromas show a rough, oaky burn. It's grippy and a touch raw on the palate, with roasted berry and plum flavors that linger into the finish.
This Monastrell's scratchy, slightly soapy berry and cassis aromas are on the sweet and ripe side. Its baked plum and berry flavors are fleshy and lack focus, finishing with abrasive tannins.
This Monastrell-Cabernet blend is ripe and syrupy. The palate is so saturated that it verges on being overdone. Flavors of blackberry and cassis syrup finish heavy, sweet and sticky.
This Monastrell-heavy blend hits with a ton of ripe berry aromas, Graham cracker and minerality on the bouquet. In the mouth, it's creamy and syrupy, with jutting tannins. Flavors of lactic oak, stewed black fruits and carob finish chocolaty and creamy, with mild tannins and heat.
This Monastrell-led blend opens with a smoky blast of toasty oak on top of forest floor and herbal tones. The palate feels massive and extracted, showing ripe cassis and blackberry. Chocolate, herb, toast, berry and black currant flavors ride through the ripe finish. Drink through 2017.
This Monastrell-led blend smells like a pot of baked beans. A compact body is solid in the center but scratchy on the edges. Toasty, briary black-fruit flavors are herbal, and the wine tastes peppery and like tomato and oregano on the finish. Drink through 2021.
This Monastrell-Syrah blend feels grabby and tight, while the flavor profile goes in the direction of weedy and resiny. A stalky tasting, almost green finish has a rubbery feel to it.
This Monastrell gets going with roasted plum and berry aromas, with side notes of crushed stones. A full palate with an iron grip shows flavors of black fruits and coffee. A fleshy finish is spicy and dark in flavor. Drink through 2019.
This Monastrell is a bit rough, burning and horsey on the nose, but its minty cherry and plum aromas are solid. A lively palate is choppy and scratchy in feel, while medicinal plum and berry flavors carry over to a strong-boned finish.
This Monastrell is dark, youthful, concentrated and robust on the nose. In the mouth, it's rich, thick and borderline sticky, with creamy flavors of blackberry and chocolate. That same oak-based creaminess carries onto the finish, which is resiny in feel and chocolaty in flavor.
This Monastrell opens with resiny, lactic aromas and a strong note of rubber. It's big, blocky and chunky in feel, while the flavor profile revolves around briny plum and rubber.
This mongrel is 50% Red Mountain Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. Tight and tart, it has a slightly reduced, rubber ball character, and needs plenty of breathing time. Fruit flavors are raspberry and cassis, accented with sharp acids and stiff tannins.
This monopole (single owner vineyard) has produced a wine of great depth and concentration, packed with black fruits, berries and a smoky wood character. It's an impressive wine, very rich and with sufficient layered acidity. Very ageworthy.
This monopole (wholly-owned vineyard) is in the heart of the village of Aloxe-Corton. The 2005 is structured and wood-dominated at this stage; the dense fruit and the sweet, ripe, red berry acidity are waiting to develop into a wine that will be rich, smooth and velvety. Give it 6 years at least.
This monopole vineyard came into the Bouchard family in 1791, 60 years after the maison was founded. This wine is smoky and full of fruit and sweet tannins. With its balanced tannins and rich fruits, it is developing well. The dense structure behind the fruit promises good aging. Drink from 2020.
This monopole within the Chablis grand cru vineyards produces top Chablis. In 2006, the wine is powerful, but layered with intense minerality, a flinty character on top of the ripe white and yellow fruits. It has concentration, a depth of flavor that is impressive. It will age well.
This Montalcino-based Merlot has a lot going on but is just a tad too raw and ripe to break into the 90-points range. On the nose, it offers a mélange of strawberry, blueberry, almond, balsam notes and mint. The tannins are silky and smooth.
This Montepulciano d'Abruzzo shows a juicy, rich feeling with bold cherry fruit, blackberry and a touch of bitter chocolate. It's a broad, heavy wine with ripe intensity and thick texture. Pair it with rustic,  hearty country foods.
This Montsant white is oily and oaky on the nose. The palate on this Garnacha Blanca is plump feeling, with decent acidity and full flavors of papaya and melon. This finishes oily in feel, with green notes and scallion flavors. Only 500 cases made.
This more structured, concentrated version of Nero di Troia opens with aromas of allspice, mature black fruit, violet and a whiff of leather. The bold palate delivers ripe black cherry, black pepper, grilled herb, vanilla and a chocolate note alongside big, velvety tannins.
This Moscato d'Asti delivers traditional aromas of peach, apricot, honey and yellow rose. It boasts sweet softness in the mouth and a fine quality of effervescence that feels like plush foam in the mouth.
This Moscato from northern Italy has aromas and flavors of apricot and peach that are typical of the grape, along with a hint of lime. This would make a nice pairing with cream-filled cakes and fruit tarts.
This Moscato is a great value, a perfect opening for a big party. Made in a subtle, lightly sweet style, with sophisticated gardenia and white flower scents on the nose. A jazzy midpalate mineral note contributes some edge, while the elegant finish trails off into intriguing notes of fresh ginger and roasted pineapple. Drink up, no reason to age.
This Moscato Passito from northern Italy opens with crisp and pristine aromas of yellow rose, honey, stone fruit and white almond. On the close, the wine is sticky, sweet and succulent. Pair it with vanilla cream or panna cotta with caramel.
This Moschofilero starts with honeyed peach, spice and lemon aromas, followed by a light touch of peach and minerals on the palate. Easy drinking and linear, this wine will pair well with cheese and light fare.
This Moschofilero/Chardonnay blend feels a bit overwrought, with a boozy nose of vanilla, dried apricot and spice and flavors of citrus fruit and cedar. It also has a nice exotic character that will pair well with heartier fish dishes and cheese. Drink now.
This most appealing Chardonnay offers a deluxe display of Meyer lemon, baked pear and toasted marshmallow flavors in a ripe and creamy style. That lush core is focused and framed with ample acidity, and suggests a decade (at least) of life ahead. Drink now through 2026.
This most intriguing white grape, which the Larners grow as an ode to their Italian past, shows a sweet nose with a bone dry palate. Sugary citrus scents of orange blossoms and peach syrup give way to a brisk palate full of honeysuckle, night jasmine and a nearly pine needle bitterness that cuts dynamically through it all.
This most powerful of Grand Cru vineyards has yielded another blockbuster. Even in the 2011 vintage, the wine is a massive statement, packed with rich fruits, dark tannins and layers of blackberry and juicy acidity. The wine has a dry texture, that will soften slowly over many years. Drink from 2019.
This most recent release of vintage rosé from Deutz boasts fine acidity and crisp young fruit, marking it as a wine to age. Bright and lively with a sophisticated edge of acidity and red currant fruit, it should be cellared until 2019.
This mostly Syrah blends in 6% Grenache, combining the two grapes from the property's estate into an opaque, juicy expression of black licorice, tar, cigar, grilled mushrooms atop a meaty steak and plenty of black pepper. Big and bold in every sense of the word, it retains just enough acidity to maintain an inviting nature and beguiling floral backbone.
This Mottet family wine is a blend of 44% Sémillon, 46% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Sauvignon Gris. Soft, rounded and perfumed, this is a full fragrant wine. Its acidity is just right for the smooth texture and green-plum flavored fruits. The background is more tightly coiled with minerality and zesty lemon flavors.
This Moueix-owned premier grand cru classé property quietly goes about producing great wines. The 2000 is a complete success, with its aromas of red berry fruits and sweet wood, its flavors cedar and truffles alongside the fine, elegant tannins. It will age slowly and reveal layers of complexity over the years.
This mountain-grown wine is hugely tannic and oaky, hard to penetrate in its full-bodied ripeness. Smoky oak and currant flavors vie for attention against a backdrop of concentration and power.
This mountain-grown Zin is dry, lusty, robust and briary, with peppery flavors of wild forest berries, leather and cola. You'll find firm acids, but the wine has a silky texture that's almost like Pinot Noir.
This mountain Nebbiolo opens with aromas of forest floor, violet, menthol and a whiff of scorched earth. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, ground pepper and star anise alongside austere tannins that grip the finish.
This mountaintop winery puts much effort in single-vineyard expressions, but this blend rivals even those, with nose-tingling aromas of concentrated hibiscus and pomegranate, plus dried sour cherries and graphite. Prominent herbs like oregano, thyme and dried sage mix with eucalyptus and menthol on the palate, where soft cranberry fruit serves as backbone.
This Mourvèdre has a pretty cherry flavor, with a suggestion of ripeness that borders on raisining. It also carries interesting details of dried leaf and milk chocolate.
This Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault blend has ripe, textured red-berry fruits that give weight and richness. A tangy texture, almost mineral, in the background shapes the spicy, peppery aftertaste.
This Mourvèdre/Grenache/Petite Sirah blend offers appealing aromas and flavors of spicy berry and smoke, with good structure and length. The smoky character borders on excessive, though, so pair it with some grilled, spicy ribs or kebabs for the best experience.
This Mourvèdre/Syrah blend has loads of wild berry and black cherry, spiced up with tarragon and other herbs. The Syrah fills in the middle with juicy berry and peppery spice. The tannins are balanced and firm, barky but not overpowering.
This mouth-filling Shiraz features plenty of weight and texture and bold, plummy flavors tinged with mocha and black olive. It'll go great with a charred steak off the grill.
This mouthfilling blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and 5% Carignan features ample cherry fruit, with some chocolaty richness on the palate and hints of bay leaf and anise. It's bouncy and fresh, showing enough tannin in the finish to think it will stand up well to grilled burgers or chops.
This mouthfilling red features lashings of oak, but the bountiful blackberry and blueberry fruit still shines, framed by notes of maple syrup and vanilla. The finish delivers a powerful finale of tannin, but the bold fruit powers through. Drink now–2015.
This mouthfilling wine is generously ripe and rich, with hints of herb and mountain brush dancing around soft, rounded layers of plum and cinnamon. The finish is lush and lingering.
This mouthwatering blend starts with a nose of fresh mint, pineapple and mango, followed by flavors of orange peel, peach and lemon. Fresh and fruity with a mineral backbone, the wine finishes on an earthy spin. Pair with grilled sardines or poultry dishes.
This mouthwatering rosé is a traditional blend of 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre. It's medium-bodied, boasting notes of fresh herbs, cherries and white chocolate, balanced by a hints of sea spray. Drink it over the next year.
This much-admired vineyard brings exotic scents of ripe black-cherry fruit soaked in Asian spices. The wine is compact and powerful, with strong tannins and a light whiff of tar. Drink 2018 through 2026.
This much-sought-after, estate-grown Viognier is in short supply in 2011, but it's exemplary for its structure and class. Flavors of lime skin and grapefruit, wet stone and citrus abound. The cool vintage led to low yields—under two tons per acre. All neutral oak was used.
This Mulderbosch red starts with upfront red currant, smoke and cherry aromas. On the palate, it's a layered treat of elegant, bright plum and cherry fruit flavors, buoyed by minerals and a mocha coffee spin. The finish is long and fruity. Smooth, ageable and ultimately appealing.
This multi-vineyard blend opens with light floral notes, hits the palate with spice, clove and pepper, then brings in cranberry and pie cherry fruit. Complex and racy, it will be best with additional cellaring.
This multigrape blend opens with spicy aromas of baked plum, tomato and cumin. The mouthfeel is fresh and dry, with focus. In terms of flavors, it's earthy, with baked berry, baking spice and licorice notes. The finish is smooth and earthy tasting, with roundness. Drink now through 2016.
This multivineyard blend isn't cheap, but it's almost as good as Farrell's more expensive single-vineyard Pinots, which makes it kind of a value. Like them, it's a dry, crisply acidic wine, and slightly austere. It shows tobacco-infused cherry pie filling, pomegranate, rhubarb and cola flavors.
This multivintage, Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend deals tobacco, cedar, olive, tomato and spice aromas along with earthy berry notes. The palate has a tartaric imprint, while flavors of vanilla, blackberry, cassis and green herbs finish oaky and with plenty of leftover vanilla and tobacco. Drink through 2020.
This murky fortified wine pushes some blackberry fruit forward. The liquorous brandy flavors come up strongly, and the wine finishes with flavors of dried leaves.
This murky Malbec has odd, horsey, berry aromas. It's rough and raw on the palate, with leafy, herbal plum flavors that finish rugged and with a dull spiciness.
This Muscat is the color of dark coffee, with a greenish inflection at the rim, showing the high average age of the blend. It is incredibly rich and sweet—it pretty much oozes across the palate with intense flavors of molasses and dried dates before finishing long, long, long. A wine you can still taste minutes after spitting or swallowing.
This Muscat offers luscious honey, lemon and tropical fruit on the nose, with viscous waves of lemon, pineapple and warming spice on the palate. Not overly complex but certainly appealing. Pair with creamy cheeses and fruit.
This Muscat Ottonel has lemon zest and white floral aromas. A floral touch of violet colors the palate, as well as juicy orange pith. The finish is clean and crisp.
This Muscat starts with floral and honeyed aromas, followed by a lush combination of honey, citrus and white fruits on the palate. A good interplay of spice and fruit, it will pair well with soft cheeses and fruit.
This muscular Amarone has an almost overripe fragrance, along with chocolate and vanilla notes. The alcohol is forward on the palate, but it also delivers sweet plum, prune and black pepper flavor, with hints of vanilla and coffee. This is direct and powerfully structured.
This muscular blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre spends about a year in oak prior to bottling, yet the oak has integrated well, adding notes of clove and cinnamon. Cracked pepper, plums and black olives round out the flavor profile, and dusty tannins linger on the finish. Drink 2016–2025.
This muscular Malbec opens with a blast of ripe berry aromas offset by oaky coconut notes. A plump palate avoids being pudgy, while plum, black cherry and blackberry flavors end with a turn of oaky vanilla and balancing residual acidity.
This muscular, peppery wine has tight focus and good flavor intensity. Bright cherry fruit shines through the pinpoint core, gracefully expanding throughout the medium-length finish.
This muscular, stout Monastrell sweet wine is all aces. Blackberry, cassis and fine oak aromas precede a sensationally smooth palate that's full of toffee, chocolate, coffee, pepper, blackberry and cassis flavors. A long, warm, impeccably balanced finish is pure and delicious. Drink through 2025.
This muscular, tightly knit Barbaresco shows intriguing animal, rose and barnyard scents that promise to develop greater complexity over time. Intense and concentrated in the mouth, meaty tannins and searing acidity provide the backdrop for mushroom, charcoal and violet notes that carry over to the long finish. Drink 2010–2020.
This music-themed blend of Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc is named after vinyl records, and the name means “white noise.” The nose is made up of simple apple and stone-fruit aromas, and the wine tastes of briny orange, finishing racy and salty.
This must-have wine from the producer is always fun, a celebration of bright, juicy acidity and softly rendered dried lavender. Seamless on the palate, it will please fans of the variety and bring new ones into the fold, alluring in its smoky leather, white pepper and depth of blackberry.
This muted, tannic Cabernet spent 20 months in new French oak. The dark black cherry and berry fruit are overwhelmed somewhat by the toast and oak.
This négociant's top cuvée of Saint-Joseph has vibrant mixed berry notes that pick up lovely hints of licorice and garrigue, then turn chocolaty and velvety on the finish. Nicely done all the way around, with a drinking window extending from now through 2017.
This négociant-style wine offers immediate appeal. Aromas of lemon, candle wax, mineral, lees and toast are followed by lively, sleek citrus flavors. This was a banner vintage for Washington whites and this wine is batting cleanup.
This négociant based in the Northern Rhône has turned out a meaty, savory Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It's full bodied and firmly structured, with plenty of clove, leather and peppered beef. Drink 2014–2020.
This négociant bottling delivers reasonably fresh fruit and plenty of ripe raspberry flavor. It's medium to full in body, with supple tannins that make it easy to drink now.
This négociant operation has greatly expanded its offerings in recent years, and this blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre is reasonably successful. Cherry and dried herb notes are framed by dry cedar accents before picking up olive and coffee nuances on the finish. Drink now and over the next two years.
This négociant wine, made at a large custom crush facility in Mattawa, Washington, shows traces of the crisp fruit and lively flair of more substantial efforts. But it feels a little faded, and falls a little flat. Not bad, just vin ordinaire.
This nano-produced wine all comes from Stillwater Creek vineyard. It offers aromas of ripe red apple and red raspberry along with light barrel accents. The elegant, velvety texture steals the show, with the red fruit flavors lingering.
This Napa-based company has acquired some Oregon Pinot from a top vineyard, and made a tasty, nicely detailed wine with it. Scents and flavors conjure up plum, candied orange peel and baking spices, guaranteed to tickle the taste buds. It's a little bumpy in the finish, perhaps as a result of the long ride south taken by the grapes. Drink now while it's at its best.
This Napa-side-of-Carneros Chardonnay is resplendent in crisp yet hearty aromas of apple, pear and flowery jasmine. Well put-together, it offers electric acidity and enough rounded texture to pair magnificently with food. On the finish is a hint of tarte Tatin, a tiny seasoning of cinnamon and nutmeg on top.
This Napa producer based in the Chiles Valley has made a big style of Cab here, with plenty of tannins and black currant aromas and flavor but the wine's acidity tastes a touch out of balance and could improve with time. Producer recommends waiting to open until 2013.
This Napa Valley boutique winery now ventures into Oregon, with a tart, juicy and aromatic Pinot Noir from the Roserock vineyard. Despite all the criticism about the thin wines from the 2011 vintage, there have been some wonderful examples, with finesse and detail. Crisp raspberry fruit anchors this rather delicate, expressive and delicious wine, aged 18 months in French and American oak, 45% new.
This native fermentation, unfiltered wine employs 25% whole-cluster and a low amount of new French oak. It's light and clear in color with a concentrated hit of mint, eucalyptus and pine around a strength of strawberry and vanilla, gently nested in oak. It opens slowly in the glass.
This native white (70% Roditis and 30% Batiki) blend offers a zippy but floral nose and flavors of lemon, oregano and flowers on the palate. Fresh acidity and rich fruit flavors add up to a delightful, approachable white with character. Pair with lighter seafood and poultry dishes.
This naturally cloudy pét nat smells both of yeast and freshly cut russet-pear peel, giving an impression of full, ripe fruit. The palate has the same fresh pear notes as well as that textural element of peel. Bone dry, it comes with finest fizz and is utterly refreshing, if rustic. It would shine as a full-flavored picnic wine, with a lastingly dry finish.
This naturally cool vineyard fared well in warm 2015, giving wine that has retained minerality and a crisp texture. It is fruity, while having a tight edge as well as layers of acidity. Drink from 2020.
This naturally rich Soave Classico opens with floral, soapy aromas of honeysuckle and yellow rose. The texture is dense and heavy, although a fresh acidic component helps keep it balanced.
This naturally sweet red opens with a neutral nose that recalls a dry Primitivo wine. Dark fruit, cherry and black pepper notes are present, with a tangy sweetness on the palate. Pair this with chocolate brownies or chocolate chip cookies.
This Navarran blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo opens with mulchy aromas of compost, tomato and herbs as well as currant and plum. The palate is thick and syrupy in feel, with a mix of baked, stewy berry flavors offset by green notes. Herbal berry and chocolaty flavors control a rooty, sweet-tasting finish.
This Navarran blend opens with spicy raspberry and red currant aromas. The palate is sharp, prickly and edgy in feel, with flavors of cherry tomato, herbs and racy red fruits. The hot, scratchy finish can probably best be tamed with food.
This Navarran Garnacha is more interesting, offering lemony, floral aromas that are red in nature and not very stout. The palate sizzles with racy acidity, while the flavor profile is pure and tangy, with cranberry and red plum notes. A zesty style of Grenache.
This nearly 100% Cabernet is strongly flavored, bone dry, very tannic and nowhere near ready. It has a tough, astringent mouthfeel, and the concentrated richness of grapes grown on low-yielding hillsides. Intense flavors of blackberries, black cherries, cassis, cola and herbs mark this fine, ageable wine. Don't touch it before 2013, and it should ride out many years beyond that.
This nearly 50-50 blend is restrained and grassy, reflecting the French ownership and philosophy well. Grapefruit and cut grass will marry well with food or be pleasant on its own, even picking up a hint of stoniness on the fully dry finish.
This nearly decade-old wine is ready to enjoy now, with complex aromas of iron, turned earthy, leather, dried red cherry, cinnamon, wet cedar, mace and myrrh. It's relatively light in body and the flavors are mineral-driven, with dust and rust set against dried cranberry and cherry fruits.
This Nebbiolo by Mario Pelassa is loaded with aromas that recall Christmas spice, chopped mint and nutmeg. There's an incredibly strong balsam note here that resembles eucalyptus and peppermint. Pair this wine with lamb and mint jelly.
This Nebbiolo d'Alba offers remarkable freshness of its fruit flavors that come off as cherry, raspberry and plum. It's an easy, straightforward wine with a very approachable drinking style. The wine shows the informal and playful side of Piedmont's most noble grape.
This Nebbiolo has aromas of raspberry with hints of spice and coffee. The palate delivers ripe black cherry flavors with white pepper and clove notes. This will pair well with mushroom risotto.
This Nebbiolo is at first closed down and inexpressive. It eventually reveals subdued aromas of black cherry and raspberry with a whiff of spice that all carry over to the palate.
This needs a good bit of breathing time, then it begins to reveal some cherry lifesaver fruit and a balanced structure with firm acids and medium tannins. A bit chalky in the finish, it's a relatively light style that is pleasant and pretty once it has opened up.
This needs another year or two in bottle to further integrate the disparate components, especially the aggressive barrel flavors. What's here is all good—vivid, punchy apple fruit, sharp acids and toasty wood notes. There's a hint of vanilla custard and even a suggestion of banana cream pie. It just needs to meld a bit longer and the score could go higher.
This needs decanting, but after some air this Pinotage—a rarity in California—bears aromas of dark plum, cherry and leather pouch, followed by a deep root-beer note. Strong in flavor and body, the finish veers bitter before righting itself back on course.
This needs more time in the bottle to unfold, but right away you can see there is substantial fruit and plenty of barrel flavors to go with it. Cassis, smoke, toffee and tobacco are all in play, and as the wine breathes it begins slowly unwrapping more and more detail.
This needs oxygen to open up past its slightly reductive nose; then it blossoms into a full-bodied, flavorful wine with a broad array of mixed black fruits. Hints of leaf and herb are nicely styled and not intrusive.
This needs some breathing time to soften its rough edges. Herbal notes compete with black raspberry fruit. Some spicy highlights lead into a tannic finish. The pieces are there but it needs time to flesh out a bit more.
This negociant has produced a simple fruity Muscadet with a zesty texture and easy acidity. Crisp and packed with citrus fruit, it is ready to drink.
This negociant wine is soft, ripe and smoothly textured. It has a fine balance between acidity and the rich red cherry fruit. With its edge of tannins, it has a good structure that gives it shape. Drinkable now.
This negociant wine produced by Domaine Dujac has plenty of the generous fruit associated with the appellation. It also has solid tannins built for aging and strikes a fine balance between the crisp character of its red fruit and richer wood spice notes. Drink from 2019.
This neighbor of Château Cos d'Estournel has produced a firm dry wine in 2014. Dark tannins and spice hint at the finely judged structure. The wine is foursquare and solid, likely to develop well over the medium term. Drink from 2022.
This neon-watermelon sparkler shows playfully fruity aromas of watermelon hard candy and fresh strawberries. Ample acidity keeps the palate lively, with ripe watermelon, cherry and strawberry flavors carrying through to the bright finish.
This Nerello Mascalese has Mediterranean herb, dark spice and orange peel aromas. Its simple, rather unusual palate evokes strawberry, white pepper and lemon alongside bright acidity and loose-knit tannins. Drink soon.
This Nerello Mascalese opens with delicate aromas of forest fruit, fresh blueberry, vanilla, ginger, licorice and spice. A mineral sensation gives the tannins a dry, dusty feel.
This Nero d'Avola from the Agrigento area of southern Sicily opens with spicy nuances of cumin, clove and nutmeg, followed by plush red-fruit and dusty mineral endnotes. The palate is polished, bright and finely textured.
This Nero d'Avola has aromas of earth, black currants, game and a note of grilled bell peppers. The palate offers fleeting black cherry and black berry, accented by black pepper and a green note of dried sage. It finishes on a bitter note.
This Nero d'Avola has black-skinned berry, blue flower and black pepper aromas. The easygoing palate conveys mature black cherry and raspberry jam, with round tannins. Enjoy soon.
This Nero d'Avola offers blackberry, violet and cooking spice scents. The easygoing palate doles out black cherry, blueberry jam and white pepper flavors alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
This Nero d'Avola offers very ripe aromas of stewed prunes and hickory smoke. The wine tastes and feels like a hot climate version of Amarone and offers huge intensity and flavors of raisin, dried prune, oregano and rosemary. Overall, this is a strange, super-ripe wine.
This Nero d'Avola opens with a bright note of forest berry or bramble and continues with solid consistency and plush density. The tannins are polished and tight and the wine would pair with roasted chicken or pork.
This Nero d'Avola opens with aromas of burned rubber and ripe black fruit. The palate shows dense blackberry extract along with espresso, toasted flavors and very evident alcohol. It finishes on an astringent, drying note of wood.
This Nero d'Avola opens with blue flower and black-skinned berry aromas. The juicy palate doles out ripe black cherry, blackberry jam and nutmeg flavors framed by smooth, polished tannins. Enjoy soon to catch the succulent fruit.
This Nero d'Avola opens with mature black-skinned berry, violet and leather aromas. The firm, juicy palate doles out ripe blackberry, dried cherry and mocha flavors while assertive tannins give it a firm, astringent finish. Drink 2018–2023.
This Nero d'Avola opens with mature black cherry, cinnamon and toasted almond aromas while the fresh, structured palate delivers juicy blackberry, raspberry jam and white pepper notes. Fresh acidity and polished tannins lend balance and a smooth texture. Enjoy through 2024.
This Nero d'Avola opens with ripe plum, black-skinned berry and vanilla aromas. The medium-bodied palate shows blackberry jam, espresso and tobacco flavors while close-grained tannins give the finish grip. Drink 2018–2022.
This Nero d'Avola shows a dark, rich color and inky concentration. It presents aromas of smoked bacon, black cherry and exotic spice, with a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
This Nero d'Avola suggests mature black-skinned berry, carob and toast on the nose. Concentrated and chewy on the palate, it offers ripe black cherry, raspberry jam, clove and cocoa flavors framed by velvety, polished tannins. Thanks to its fruit richness, it's not overwhelmed by the warmth of evident alcohol. Enjoy through 2021.
This nervy and vibrant wine takes time to reveal the intriguing flavors within. Quite tart and tannic at first, it is firm in texture to balance the ripe, sweet plum, marascino cherry and orange peel aromas. While chewy and lip-smacking in the beginning, deeper flavors come through on the second and third sips, and a smoky nuance develops on the finish.
This nervy, refreshing and substantive wine practically bursts with apple peel and apricot flavors. The texture is tangy but also full enough to feel rounded, and lively enough with acid and fruit to have a virtual electric charge.
This nervy, tangy, tantalizing wine smells like rhubarb-strawberry pie, tastes lively and fresh, and has a firm texture due to a healthy mix of tannins and acidity. This wine shows how appealing and distinctive a full-bodied but balanced Pinot can be.
This neutral-tasting wine has little flavor. It is soft and fat.
This neutral and mineral-driven Greco offers tones of white stone and dried flowers. The wine is lean and crisp with a thin but refreshing consistency. It would make an excellent companion to spicy Indian or Thai foods.
This new-comer Barolo shows beautiful intensity and an inky dark appearance. The aromas are soft and yielding with sweet tones of wild berry and exotic spice woven between leather, tobacco and licorice.
This new-wood-dominated wine is ripe, but full of caramel and mint flavors. The fruit is more discreet, just hinting at blackberry richness. The potential to achieve balance in six months is all here.
This new “i” series offering mixes brambly strawberry fruit with granular tannins. It's ready to drink, dappled with cinnamon, and leaves a slightly medicinal aftertaste in the back of the mouth.
This new Artist Series red is three-quarters Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and the rest a mix of Cab Franc and Malbec, mostly from the Cold Creek Vineyard. Blue and black fruits are enhanced with barrel flavors of smoke, tobacco and espresso. Some additional years in bottle should help this wine knit together seamlessly.
This new Ausonius features a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Cabernet Franc and 8% Malbec. At first it's rich, smoky, chocolaty and supple; moving toward a Napa style in its breadth and ripeness, but leavening that with Washington's bright acids. Pleasing hints of spice and herb are dappled in, and the wine is almost peppery as it weaves across the palate. The finish is clean and simple, leaving you wishing for just a bit more complexity.
This new baby from Crasto is an easygoing wine, full of berry fruits, gentle tannins. It is ready to drink, finishing softly and freshly.
This new blend features 38% Merlot, 32% Petite Sirah, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Malbec, combining brawn with beauty. Red fruit and a light grip of oak wrap around a softly textured body, making for an approachable, easygoing experience.
This new Bordeaux-style red could technically be labeled Cabernet Sauvignon, as it accounts for 82% of the blend. Pungently smoky, the impression of charred wood penetrates into the deep core of cassis and black cherry. Dark and quite tannic, it remains to be seen if all that barrel toast will ultimately meld into the rest of the wine.
This new brand's winemaker, Vance Rose, is an established veteran. He now turns his hand to Cabernet, with stunning results. The wine is extraordinarily intense in blackberries, black currants and cocoa, with new oak providing not only sweet toast but additional tannins. The alcohol is relatively high, but the wine will certainly age. Begin drinking in 2018.
This new brand belongs to Santa Ema, and its Leyda SB straddles the line between vegetal and green fruits, with a canned-bean scent rising to the top. Briny citrus and lightly vegetal flavors finish briny and salty.
This new brand from Santa Carolina is improving with each passing vintage. Nimbus SB is true to its Casablanca roots; it shows oily, green aromas, a spot of bell pepper and then prickly lemon-lime flavors. It's a good one for sushi and other seafoods, while the mouthfeel is racy and clean.
This new brand from the folks behind Suacci Carciere is a study in cool-climate austerity and elegance. A tangle of savory herb and Asian spice seasons soft, lean layers of strawberry and pomegranate. Bright and full of verve, it's a food-friendly, complex wine from a producer worth watching.
This new brand from Ventisquero has chosen the unoaked route for this fleshy, stone-fruit driven Chardonnay that also manages to fold in tropical-fruit overtones and undertones. Nectarine, yeasty vanilla and orange flavors finish fleshy and pulpy, but generally quite fresh.
This new Cabernet from Cono Sur opens with a mix of cedar and berry aromas. In the mouth, it's super crisp and high in acidity, which creates astringency and adds sourness to the wine's herbal plum core. It's punchy and almost citric on the finish.
This new Cabernet Sauvignon has the raisined fruit flavors of an older, or quickly aging wine. Barrel aging contributes additional elements of soy and maple syrup, eventually thinning out through the finish. Drink soon.
This new Chardonnay from chalky soils smells of lanolin and waxy orange. On the palate, this shows some minerality but mostly it's bulky and citric. Briny stone-fruit flavors finish flat.
This new consumer-friendly brand sports a Garnacha-based rosado and a red blend. The rosé is a bit sweet and mass-market in style, but it has nice color, mouthfeel and integrity. With detectable residual sugar, it's probably better if you have previously enjoyed blush wines. Imported by Cellar Door.
This new cuvée blends fruit from three of the estate vineyards—Mark Bradford, Grace and Côte Sud. It's medium bodied, with a mix of dried cherries, chocolate and herb. Somehow those flavors don't quite knit together. The wine feels a bit unfocused, though all the components are individually fine. It would be worth waiting until 2018 or 2019 before pulling the cork on this one.
This new cuvée brings forward, spicy, peppery fruit centered around cranberry flavors. The back end tannins turn earthy, and take the shine off the finish. Perhaps a bit more bottle age will open it up.
This new cuvée features grapes from both Tokar and Yellowbird vineyards, located out in the Mill Creek region east of downtown Walla Walla. It's close enough to the Blue Mountains to allow for this experiment in dry-farmed (non-irrigated) grapes. Flavors are distinctive, showing wild berries, cola, grain and herb.
This new cuvée is 60% Malbec, 35% Syrah and the rest Merlot. It seems to have been given extra barrel time, and the overpowering and heavy toast scents and flavors dominate. The raspberry fruit flavors are somewhat buried as a result, and the wine seems over-matched. But more bottle age may help to open it up.
This new cuvée is sourced from a 2008 planting of the Swan clone, rare in Oregon. The aromatics are dazzling, with a lightly peppery, meaty aspect around slightly muted notes of herb and rock. The fruit is especially generous, with blackberry and boysenberry predominant. The wine is stylish, with cut and precision. Though truly exceptional, it needs your complete attention and some extra aeration to show its best.
This new cuvée takes its name from the fermentation practice of mixing whole berries with grape-cluster stalks—just stalks, not whole clusters. Herbs and pine needle flavors dominate brambly berry fruit. It's quite young and raw, and will benefit from further bottle age.
This new designation from Rex Hill is a bit reticent aromatically, but full on the palate, with plummy fruit and a light hint of barnyard. Good texture and nicely threaded flavors roll onto the smooth, lingering finish.
This new entry into the burgeoning ranks of white Pinot Noir is a real acid bomb. Apart from the searingly tart lemon flavors, only a slight hint of roundness in the finish differentiates this from an especially tart Sauvignon Blanc.
This new entry into the Cabernet sweepstakes is promising. It's very ripe and concentrated in berries, cherries, currants and chocolate, in the manner of a mountain vineyard. The tannins are strong, but pliant, making it drinkable now. But something about it suggests the cellar. Give it three more years, by which time it will be eight years of age.
This new entry into the growing ranks of Oregon Pinot Noir vinified in the style of a white wine belongs with the very best of them. A hint of tawny gold results from barrel fermentation (all neutral) and 16 months of lees stirring prior to bottling. It's rich and layered with toast, apples, pears, cream and a touch of citrus.
This new entry into the value-wine sweepstakes is a pretty rose color, offering clean, light scents of wild berry and milk chocolate. Flavors are gently spicy with a malty finish.
This new family-run enterprise offers exceptional value among a tight portfolio of Rieslings and Pinot Noirs. This pretty fruit-powered wine used native yeast, received minimal handling, and was aged 18 months in 10% new oak. Orange slices and sweet cherry juice combine in a fresh and forward effort perfect for summer sipping.
This new label by a few friends who are veterans of the restaurant business is promising. This bottling shows peach, lime rind and melted butter on sliced apple on the open and inviting nose. Anjou pear, dried apple and jasmine flowers show on the palate, which is tropical in nature but not overly showy.
This new line from the well-regarded Testarossa Winery is a barrel selection emphasizing richness. The wine floods the mouth with succulent raspberries and cherries, with tarter notes of cranberries and red licorice. Earthiness provides extra complexity, and it could age well through 2020.
This new lineup from Columbia Crest features fruit exclusively from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, which provides a welcome focus to the wines. Fruit-powered, but more substantial than either the Grand Estates or the Two Vines, this shows persistent flavors of tangy raspberry and blackberry, moderate acids and plenty of cocoa in the finish.
This New Mexico Cab offers exotic spice and tobacco on the nose and cigarbox, smoked meat and red berry on the palate. Robust and masculine, it will pair well with grilled steaks, barbecue chicken and spicy cuisine.
This New Mexico Mourvèdre has a deep, soulful profile with aromas of blackberry and spice and mouthfilling flavors of blackberry and vanilla toast. Soft but lingering, the wine is an elegant, food-friendly choice.
This new Mistral is roughly half Grenache, the rest a mix of Syrah and four other grapes. It's immediately appealing, loaded with brown spices, plum cake, raisins and chocolate.
This new offering combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from the mountain site. The wine is intensely ripe and tart, with rounded edges and an oaky underbelly. Cedar and black currant are the dominant characteristics.
This new offering from Gamache Vintners is a Bordeaux-style blend made from 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from the Gamache and Champoux vineyards. Pretty cherry lollipop fruit carries a whiff of barnyard, and the tannins finish with an herbal echo.
This new offering from the sparkling wine producer reveals strongly crafted layers of creamy apple pie, crème brûlée and toasty oak flavors. Made in a full-bodied, concentrated style, it doesn't hold back on its spicy acidity and lemony finish.
This new offering is beautifully knit together, framing the ripe raspberry fruit with barrel spices, herbs and a streak of coffee grounds. Immediately appealing, it nonetheless has the weight and structure to be cellared until 2020–2022.
This new offering is light and elegant, with tart fruit flavors of rhubarb and pomegranate. There's an herbal edge to the wine, all in proportion, with generous acidity that could reward a few more years in the bottle.
This new offering, made by Ross Cobb and Katy Wilson, is intended as a “best of the west.” Sourced from several vineyards, it reveals true coastal qualities, with ethereal earthiness and an Old World sensibility. Cloudy in the glass, it shows cranberry, orange, bay leaf and tea flavors as it unwinds.
This new Pinot from Laura Catena's Luca label is fresh, honest and peppy. The nose is lightweight, airy and a little earthy, while the palate is fresh and agile, with good acidity and nice raspberry and pie cherry flavors. Shows some oak, vanilla and spice on a dry, mild finish. Definitely on the right path.
This new Pinot is quite light in color, and hits the palate with a mix of tart cranberry and bitter herb. In 2012, a fruit-forward vintage, it seems slightly underripe, and thins out quickly.
This new producer's family has been farming in the Yakima Valley for four generations. A fine debut, this has clean apple and peach flavors, with supporting acids and a sensible price.
This new producer is off to a good start with its first vintage. The fruit is clean and complex, ranging from watermelon to wild strawberry to pie cherry as it washes across the palate. Deep in color, yet light in the mouth, this not only makes you reach for a second glass, it makes you wish the vineyard, planted in 2001, would hurry up and age.
This new producer starts with estate-grown, mountaintop fruit from the Bennett Valley side of Sonoma Mountain to craft an inky, leathery wine that's full bodied and dense. Juicy in blackberry and smoked meat, it shows promise in the glass, evolving into a soft, peppery finish.
This new project by a former White House videographer recently enlisted Paul Hobbs as a consultant. The promise is already apparent in this wine, with aromas of cedar, cherry extract and pleasant green-pepper elements. Spicy black pepper leads the palate, which finds ripeness in black cherry and balance with leather and coffee.
This new project by wine bar owner Ash Mehta and winemaker Mary Bradley shows much promise, starting with woody elderberry, tar, black pepper and dense lavender on the buoyant nose. The sip starts with powerful pepper and then coalesces around cassis and black-currant fruit, a tarry minerality, dried herbs of thyme and juniper and a cocoa finish.
This new project focusing on specific blocks of the historic Cambria Vineyard on the Santa Maria Bench starts with very subtle and restrained aromas of nectarine, lemon cream and a hint of grapefruit pith. The palate is fresh with lime and toasted coconut flavors, held up by a backbone of strong acid that keeps it from spilling toward overripe qualities.
This new project from a co-founder of the popular Garagiste Festivals is promising. This bottling shows elegant violet, beef char, graphite and boysenberry notes on the nose. The palate is more pungent with its dark fruit, anise, pepper and roast beef flavors, finishing on a caramelized note.
This new project from Steve and Chrystal Clifton from Palmina and formerly Brewer-Clifton is exciting and tasty. Plump red cherry, fine-grained clove, allspice, nutmeg, sage, kola nut and a touch of chile spice show on the supple but focused nose. Tart cranberry, sour cherry and peppery sage pop on the energetic palate.
This new project from the heights of Atlas Peak involves Steve Matthiasson as both viticulturist and winemaker, having had to take over the reins from the late Denis Malbec. It shines in bristling acidity, dusty tannin and a beautiful floral aroma of violet. Notes of chocolate, fig and cigar sit atop a pillowy, complex structure, while vanilla lingers on the finish.
This new project of Elias Fernandez and Doug Shafer, of Shafer Vineyards, continues to impress with this standout white, sourced from Carneros, where the duo planted four acres of the variety a few years back. It's achingly pretty and substantive—exotic, complex and lingering, with sizzling acidity. Peach and honeysuckle stand out, while the texture is so sublime, you'll simply want more.
This new range of wines from Lagoalva features typical Portuguese tiles (azulejos) on the label. Inside the bottle, this wine is fruity with soft tannins, spice and red-berry flavors. It has a juicy aftertaste that blends with the fruitiness. Drink now.
This new release from a great vintage for Chardonnay in Champagne is a perfect blanc de blancs, showing a wealth of intensity from the crisp, chalky, mineral tones to the perfumed apple notes. The aromas hint at developing toastiness that adds depth and complexity. The wine is still young and it will age for years. Drink from 2020.
This new release from Melrose fills the mouth with flavor; it runs from orange blossom to Meyer lemon to candied pineapple, finally settling into a strong citrus/tropical blend of delicious fruit flavors. It seems to strike a perfect balance, staying lively and well-defined, without becoming hot or bitter.
This new release from Waterbrook is a slimmed down version of previous efforts, with rather plain fruit flavors and no discernible new oak influence. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing, but when Chardonnay is built upon little but simple green apple fruit flavors the grape's lack of character sometimes makes you wish for the return of the good old oaky days.
This new release of Riot changes the grapes around, with Sangiovese now comprising half of the wine and Mourvèdre and Grenache filling in the rest of the mix. It's a fun blend, fruity and broad, with a tart raspberry kick and a plummy, spicy finish.
This new release reflects the change of winemaking and ownership at Columbia. It's well-crafted, juicy and ripe with pleasing flavors of cranberry and currant. The acids are a little chalky, but clearly the wine has been made to reward earlier drinking rather than extended cellaring.
This new Shea designate is focused and appealing, with streaks of cola and vanilla running through the pretty cranberry and strawberry fruit. It's balanced and nicely textured, with a dollop of moist earth accenting the tannins.
This new sister label from Elk Cove offers 100% Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at an everyday price. Fresh cranberry and raspberry fruit is framed by herb-tinged tannins. The immaculate craftsmanship and clean direct flavors are light years beyond budget Pinot Noir from most other regions. This is your perfect salmon wine.
This new sparkler from Apaltagua is yeasty on the nose, with ham, salami and wheat notes. The palate isn't shy, as full-force malic acid brings more kick than grace. Flavors of cider and butterscotch finish short but clean.
This new Syrah from Betz is medium-bodied and displays light details of herb, olive, sage, a hint of lemon verbena, and tight red currant and berry fruit flavors. There is a pretty, finishing kiss of caramel and toasted almonds.
This new vineyard-designate blends Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in roughly equal proportions, from a site adjacent to Red Mountain. Generous, deeply colored, and even more deeply flavored, this supple and aromatic wine—currently a wine club selection—deserves to be more widely distributed.
This new vineyard-designate from Saintsbury has a classic profile. Spicy, woodsy, cherrylike aromas lead to layered raspberry, cinnamon and cherry flavors, with the firm texture of fine-grained tanins and good acidity. It offers a lightly tart and lingering finish. Great balance and complexity come together beautifully here.
This new vineyard site, on the east side of the Chehalem mountains, has delivered a precisely rendered, spicy wine, with a pleasing mix of leaf, herb, berry and earth flavors. It's cut on the tart, acidic side, but it's neither dull nor simple. Given its balance and texture, it may well age for another decade or more.
This new vintage is as pleasing as those in the past, with spicy flavors touching on pink grapefruit, orange rind and flesh, and just a hint of sweetness rounding off the bright acids. It's well-balanced and in a prime drinking window.
This new vintage is head and shoulders better than the previous effort. Light and pretty, with a delicate mix of citrus, melon, tangerine, lemon and lime, it's showing good length and impressive detail.
This new vintage is sourced from a single block from the Dineen vineyard, and aged in 50% new French oak—the most ever. Black fruits abound, along with licorice, tar and a whiff of iodine. It's a tightly wound Syrah, with the stuffing and style to age for a decade or longer.
This new vintage of Abeja's estate-grown Viognier is back to a richer mouthfeel after the high acid 2008, with generous citrus and stone fruits—peach and pear—candied lemon and pineapple, highlighted with cinnamon spice. Flat out yummy, roundly fruity, and long-lasting, with butterscotch ruling the finish.
This new vintage of Caitlin's Reserve was barrel-fermented in 25% new French oak. It went through regular lees stirring and a generally traditional Burgundian élévage. Trim and compact, it remains up to the taster to forecast how well this will age, and how much complexity is locked within it. Based upon the wine's track record, there's every reason to put away a few bottles to drink in the mid-2020s.
This new vintage of Chaleur Estate Blanc is still quite young and tight. It shows the toasty scents of pretty new oak, set in an elegant frame of mixed fruits. Cucumber, apple, citrus and melon flavors emerge, suggesting an overall lighter style from a cooler vintage. Graceful and polished.
This new vintage of the Zena Crown seems already faded. Light, tart strawberry fruit lacks concentration and carries a bit of bitter herb flavor. Tannins are earthy and the finish abrupt.
This new vintage was barrel fermented, which fleshes out the flavors and brings some tropical notes along with the tart flavors of fresh pear. Young, sleek and showing a pleasing, wet stone minerality, this is styled for near-term enjoyment, perhaps with fresh halibut, swordfish or white salmon.
This new Walla Walla winery premieres with a toasty, soft, barrel- fermented Bordeaux blanc blend that's 70% Sém, 30% Sauv Blanc. The fruit is ripe and packed with rich flavors, without being too fat and tropical. Its lightly herbal, grassy nuances combine with plenty of well-managed, pleasantly spicy, toasty oak.
This new wine from an estate vineyard is the strong, quiet type that's not effusively fruity but instead emphasizes mineral elements and great structure. An attractive chalky, spicy aroma leads to beautifully restrained red cherry and pomegranate flavors that seem to grow and expand with each sip. The texture is firmly tannic but also polished, supported by perfect acidity that keeps everything sharp and focused.
This new wine from Efeste is a Right bank, Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot, Cab Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tight and unyielding, even after many hours of breathing time, it's difficult to assess at this stage. Moderately ripe fruit remains closed down, showing gentle hints of sweet tomato, pomegranate and dried herbs.
This new wine from importer Bart Broadbent offers cherry, raspberry and plum aromas along with a touch of well-applied oak. It's a little tannic and biting in the mouth, but with food that should be no issue. Flavorwise, it's dealing slightly burnt notes atop full-fledged black cherry and wild berry. A firm, edgy wine with many good qualities.
This new wine from the family that founded Navarro Vineyards takes a fascinating twist on Anderson Valley style, combining very concentrated, dark-fruit and black-pepper flavors on a relatively light body. It's easy to enjoy the black cherry, clove and wood-smoke notes, while feeling the lithe, moderately tannic texture lifting the mouthfeel.
This new wine from the Laroche family of Chablis is a good, though standard, Chilean Chardonnay. Peach, ctirus and wax aromas lead to a round palate with ample acidity. It tastes like apple, banana and other tropical fruits, with sweetness and honey on the finish.
This new wine from the winemaker of Sol Rouge is extreme in ripeness and fruitiness, smelling like dried plums and tasting like grape popsicles without being overtly sweet. It should taste really good with slow-cooked barbecue. It's very full bodied but not very tannic, so it has a smooth texture.
This new wine is produced at Quinta de Pancas in the Lisboa region. It is soft, fruity and created to be drunk young. Bright red fruits and attractive acidity give a crisp wine ready to drink.
This new winery from 14-year Bonny Doon assistant Nicole Walsh presents an interesting nose, with elements of butter brickle candy, caramel apple and crushed macadamia nuts. There is some sandy minerality and golden apple skin grip on the palate, set against a subdued, guava cake-like tropicality that releases into the finish.
This new winery knocks it out of the park with a terrific Tempranillo that includes smaller amounts of Cabernet and Merlot. The black cherry fruit is accented with rose water and cut tobacco, and the characteristic acidity of Tempranillo lends the flavors a further boost.
This new winery located just outside of Prosser hits the ground running with a luscious, viscous, creamy Pinot Gris that tastes like a pear-flavored creamsicle. The fruit is almost tropical, right at the edge of mango/banana, but not fat or flabby. This is a perfect sipping wine. Screwcap.
This New World blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Chardonnay and Viognier is very fruity. It offers a blast of pineapples, honeysuckles, peaches and figs, with a coating of oaky, vanilla buttercream.
This New World style of Sauvignon Blanc is ripe, intense and catty in flavor. Very herbaceous, concentrated fruits are right up front. There is no complexity, just fruit.
This new Zin from Livermore Valley-based Dante Robere is from two vineyards, one in Livermore and the other in Brentwood. The fruit is mostly plum, with a trace of wintergreen on the mid-palate but even for Zin the fruit flavors are masked somewhat by the high alcohol; it's for those who like a heavy-hitting wine.
This new, patriotic Rosenblum Cellars project kicked off with a $100,000 gift to the USO. This affordable but well-manicured wine begins with aromas of caramelized lemon peel and faint peach that carry through to the palate, alongside a lingering note of toasted vanilla. Seeming to evolve steadily as it sits in the glass, it would wash down an even more affordable bucket of fried chicken.
This newish producer pays honor to its Persian roots with Yalda, a Rhône-style blend of 41% Shiraz, 26% Mourvedre, 25% Grenache and 8% Cinsault that's intense, coated like chocolate-strawberry jam, tobacco, leather and earth with a subtext of cheese rind. This wine definitely has character.
This newly released still wine from sparkling specialist Gloria Ferrer is a successful first effort, blending bright cherry, strawberry and tangy blood orange flavors. With an earthy hint of compost and forest, it celebrates the variety in all its glory, upholding its acidity beneath a weight of richness.
This nice drinking Chard offers plenty of bang for the buck. It's dry and creamy, with oak-infused pear, peach and green apple fruit flavors that finish in a swirl of dusty spices.
This nice, friendly sparkler shows fresh fruit and floral aromas, with a soft, foamy texture. Appealing apple flavors and a hint of sweetness round out the palate.
This nicely balanced Barossa Shiraz shows that not all Barossa wines are overweight. Sure, it has the soft, lush tannins and textures of its region, but there's also attractive herbal and savory overtones to the berry fruit.
This nicely balanced Pinot Bianco is fresh and crisp, blending peach, apple and grapefruit aromas and flavors together into a cohesive whole. Plump on the midpalate, yet steely and food-friendly on the finish.
This nicely balanced wine was made partly in barrels and partly in stainless steel. It smells like vanilla, cream and chamomile, and tastes as crisp and juicy as fresh-cut apples. Layers of flavor unfold with each successive sip, resembling nutmeg, pear and fig. The texture stays smooth and rich but with lively acidity underneath.
This nicely balanced, medium-bodied white offers a tasty array of peach, pear and melon aromas and flavors. It's pure and fruity, finishing clean and crisp, a satisfying addition to the range of apéritif wines.
This nicely balanced, medium-bodied wine has fresh, bright flavors, a firm mouthfeel and enough complexity to demand attention. Unlike so many heavy, slightly sweet red blends this one is moderate and appetizingly dry.
This nicely captures the complexity and earthiness of Washington Syrah, without becoming too heavy. Raspberry fruit is backed by earthy flavors and peppery herb, nicely integrated with nothing obtrusive. This is not the sweet and jammy style of Syrah you find in California, but it has a lot to offer if you give it a good look.
This nicely concentrated wine smells like black cherries and tastes rich and almost chocolaty. It feels smooth but hefty, laced with fine-grained tannins.
This nicely dry, not-too-big wine smells like turned earth and new leather, tastes rather tart and berrylike, and feels lean and moderately tannic in texture. Those who like their wines on the taut side will love it.
This nicely fruity, fresh wine presents a blend of apple, floral and slightly sweet flavors wrapped in a pleasing texture. Medium bodied, it tastes like a colorful fruit bowl concentrated into one glass.
This nicely made wine balances juicy black fruit with black licorice, flinty dried herb and a velvety texture. Medium bodied, it shows structure and grace within a context of ripeness and depth.
This nicely made, medium-bodied wine is fruity in strawberry with a hint of soy, its tannins soft, integrated and slightly expansive on the palate. Fruity, it was barrel-aged 10 months in French oak, 40% of it new and the rest neutral, allowing the grapes to speak.
This nicely restrained wine tastes fresh and focused like the grapes rather than oak, with a lively, balanced feel in the mouth. Full of raspberry and black cherry, it keeps inspiring another sip. Time in the cellar will bring out more complexity, so drink after 2019.
This nicely rich and rounded wine smells like vanilla and toasted bread. The flavors are ripe and black-cherry-like, with a hint of chocolate and baking spices that comes from oak. It's medium bodied and easy to like.
This nicely structured Bordeaux blend's aromas begin with violets and roll into cherry candy, while in the mouth the wine is sweet yet firm, with tart acids that are tightly wound. A mix of berry, cherry and cassis fruit is counterweighted with citric acids. Tannins are ripe with hints ofcut tobacco, moist earth and black olive.
This nicely structured Pinot Grigio shows a "ramato" or copper color and slightly oxidized aromas of butterscotch, bitter almond and ripe melon. The structure is bigger and more defined than a standard Italian white.
This nine-acre property has produced a fruity wine that has only the lightest tannins. It is much more to do with red cherries, red currants and crisp acidity. The wine is ready to drink.
This Niven family project pairs cooler climate Edna Valley Syrah with 43% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petite Sirah from warmer Paso Robles. Raspberry sorbet, blackberry, loam, spearmint and rose aromas come across as tart and fruity. The palate shows crushed gravel-like minerality, opening into dried strawberry fruit, thyme and pepper flavors. Fun yet serious.
This no-fuss 50-50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (made with organically farmed grapes) opens with wild berry and white almond aromas. The wine is thin and watery on the close.
This no-fuss blend of Chardonnay and Fiano offers simple tones of citrus and pear that segue to a crisp, clean mouthfeel. Pair this fresh southern Italian white with insalata di mare (seafood salad).
This no-fuss Montepulciano d'Abruzzo should pair with pizza or grilled sausages, thanks to its simple array of fresh berry aromas. There's are sweet touches of ripe cherry and cinnamon on the close.
This no-fuss red opens with aromas of red berry and underbrush. The cheerful palate offers strawberry, cinnamon and a hint of orange peel accompanied by smooth tannins. It's made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.
This no-fuss Valpolicella delivers light cherry and almond flavors. It's a wine to pair with a late-evening ham sandwich or with Chinese food.
This no-fuss wine is redolent of lemon soda, cut grass and bitter almond. The mouthfeel is clean and fresh.
This no-herbicide, hand-picked, hilltop Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon-Petit Verdot blend is rich with attractive acidity and ripe strawberry fruits. Its tannins present a structure for fruity texture. A wine from Bordeaux wine guru Professor Denis Dubourdieu's stable, it has concentration and a dense dark aftertaste. Drink from 2017.
This no-oak Petit Verdot is rusty and turning vegetal and herbal, with tomato-based flavors and a burnt-out finish.
This non-filtered wine is not totally limpid in appearance although it does come on strong in terms of the intensity of its aromas. Well-developed mineral tones frame deep layers of black cherry, leather and spice.
This non-vintage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc plays on the leafy side of the spectrum with abundant herb and green tea notes. It's tart and grainy with a compact ball of cherry and cranberry flavors that finish a touch ripe.
This non-vintage blend of Sémillon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Sylvaner does not simply turn generic. Off-dry and nicely balanced, it captures some special nuance of each component grape – flower, clay, stone fruit and bracing acidity.
This non-vintage is a stylish wine, well balanced with its acidity, and concentrated with grapefruit and apple flavors. While light on the palate, it's very fruity—a style that is best drunk now without further bottle age.
This non vintage white blend is composed of 50% Auxerrois, 40% Pinot Blanc, and 10% Pinot Gris. It has green apple and lemon pith aromas, lemon curd, apple juice and pastry flavors and a creamy finish.
This nontraditional blend of 50% Merlot, 25% Petite Sirah and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon works well, with fresh pressed blackberry, crushed graphite and meaty, peppercorn-crusted beef aromas. The rich mouthfeel is soft and full, with baked berry, black plum and dried ginger flavors. The acidity is powerful, almost too much so.
This nonvintage blend is best identified by its edtion number—this latest being 20. It's a runaway success, cleverly incorporating up to eight different varieties. Mixing aromatic whites and fruit-powered grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, it captures the best of both. Here the citrusy aromatics are principally from Muscat, while a touch of Sémillon adds a lick of lanolin to the tangy, juicy fruit.
This nonvintage blend is labeled by edition, this being the fourth. The mélange includes Syrah, Sangiovese, Montepulciano and a splash of Evolution white for a wine that's totally unique, and totally cool. Ripe raspberry and cherry-candy flavors also carry a note of fresh mushroom. The wine rolls into a darker, black-cherry component as it comes through the back palate. It delivers big flavors at a budget price.
This nonvintage blend is lightly herbal, with hints at pickle barrel and green olive under tart, lightly-ripened red fruit. Tannins are stiff but proportionate, and it's a good, every day steak wine.
This nonvintage blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvingon-41% Primitivo-9% Mourvèdre begins with a nose of red berries, pencil shavings and eucalyptus acorns. Very ripe pomegranate and cooked berries dominate the palate, set off by pepper spices.
This nonvintage blend of Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Chenin Blanc has pleasing aromas of rose petals, pink grapefruit and spice. It drinks sweet with a fleshy feel.
This nonvintage blend seems to be showing some age with its pale salmon color displaying some bricking. It brings notes of strawberry, cherry and herbs. It's a solid easy drinker that drinks best at room temperature.
This nonvintage Brut epitomizes the fruit of Pinot Meunier and the more structured character of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It is balanced, full of white fruit and touches of apricot, with a lively line of acidity. Drink this bottling now.
This nonvintage brut is almost always a successful bottling for Korbel. This release will not disappoint: It's a fine sparkling wine, dryish, crisp and rich in flavors of orange, lime, vanilla and yeast, with a hint of strawberry.
This nonvintage Brut is soft, creamy and rounded. It is only lightly textured with its peach and apple fruit flavors and a hint of spice. It is ready to drink.
This nonvintage Champagne from a family-owned producer has a fine, creamy mousse and enough dosage to give it a soft aftertaste. It's well balanced, with 40% Pinot Meunier bringing smoothness to the crisp acidity. It's ready to drink.
This nonvintage Champagne is dry, with considerable crispness and minerality. It has been blended to be drunk young and fruity. The aftertaste highlights white fruit and pink grapefruit.
This nonvintage classic is on point with its soft, ripe style. It has just enough maturity to fill out the fruit, with hints of almond and toast. On the palate, attractive bright citrus and green apple flavors dominate.
This nonvintage cuvée from Gobillard is crisp and fruity, with delicate apple and fresh pear flavors. It is a well-balanced, light wine, poised and stylish, showing fruit that contrasts the mineral-textured finish.
This nonvintage cuvée from Lombard is soft and fruity with a relatively high dosage that gives a rounded character. Red apple and a light touch of spice balance with the full acidity. The bottling tasted here is young, so it would be worth keeping until the end of 2015.
This nonvintage cuvée is dominated by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. That gives richness as well as a crisp lemon and tangy orange character. Ripe and full, it's balanced and ready to drink.
This nonvintage cuvée sums up the Gosset style in its precise texture and crisp, taut acidity. A blend of fruit from the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, it shows some attractive maturity. Given its balanced, perfumed aftertaste and great fruitiness, this is a Champagne to drink now.
This nonvintage red dessert wine is made from Bastardo grapes. It is garnet in color with aromas of sweet cherry syrup and raspberry preserves. It has flavors of soda fountain cola spiked with cherry juice and cassis. It is delightfully sweet with a touch of acidity in the finish.
This nonvintage red is a serviceable blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel. Sharp, spicy and tannic, it has a bit of a green streak through the finish.
This nonvintage Riesling offers light apple flavors and a hint of spice.
This nonvintage rosé comes packaged in 187ml cans, with four to a pack. Lightly sugary flavors of simple strawberry fruit recall inexpensive California brands—except with a slightly tinny finish.
This nonvintage rosé, modeled after a Bandol, is a blend of grapes and vintages, yet retains superb freshness and offers unusual complexity. Rich and tart, with a creamy strawberry core, it also shows sandalwood highlights and a hint of barrel toast.
This nonvintage wine comes packaged in 187ml cans (four to a pack)—each good for one generous glass pour. Pleasant cherry flavors carry it through, and it's a fine porch pounder, or safe on a hike or campout (just pack the cans back out). Maybe the packaging puts the thought of metal in a taster's head, but there seems to be a slightly tinny aftertaste.
This nonvintage, Bordeaux-style blend is predominately grapes from the 2012 harvest, with a small addition of 2011 to add balance. The nose is spice-driven, with tart currant and green peppercorn pervading. The palate shows a bit more ripeness, offering tart plum and blackberry up front, but leads to a slightly green and astringent finish.
This normally cool Premier Cru has done particularly well in the 2015 vintage. This bottling is ripe and full of white fruit, while keeping a strong line of fine, tight acidity. It will be ready to drink soon, so only wait until 2018.
This normally rich Meursault has gone into overdrive in 2009, producing a superopulent wine. It does, however, balance that with fine acidity and a mineral edge. It opens slowly to give its apple and peach fruits.
This north-facing slope planted to seven clones of Pinot Noir seems to produce better wines every year. The 2013 is medium-bodied yet creamy-textured and lush, with black cherry fruit framed by cedar and vanilla. It's silky and vibrant on the finish, making it a treat to drink already.
This North Coast Cab opens with fragrant cranberry aromas and has a decent level of texture and structure, but devolves into slightly green territory and a confusing finish of coffee.
This Norton starts strong with bold aromas of black mission fig, chocolate ganache and hickory, but with air a distracting chemical-like tone surfaces. The palate is firm with salient, saliva-inducing acids, a medium amount of integrated chewy tannins, and a finish that bears a flavor of desiccated black fruit.
This nose features much more nuance than a typical Sauvignon Blanc, with chalky minerality, bright stone fruit and barely ripe tropicality. It's a bit tight at first on the palate, but poached pear and papaya flavors emerge, then open to candied guava in the midpalate.
This nose from the actor-turned-vintner's family vineyard shows tight aromas of chalk, rain on cement and lime pith and blossoms. The laser-focused palate holds to the lime-pith lead, also showing ruby-red grapefruit juice, but exercising a lot of clean restraint.
This nose is a lovely mix of lemon peel and camphor leaves, intriguing and refreshing and just a little heady. The palate is streamlined and slender and of great purity. This is lithe but intense, slender but profound. It shows what Riesling is capable of in a cooler year. Stockpile this since it will last and get ever more delicious. Drink now till 2020.
This nose is rather closed but the firm palate offers ripe sour cherry, dark cooking spice, pipe tobacco and chopped herb. Fresh acidity and youthfully austere but refined tannins provide the backbone. Drink after 2019.
This nose of this wine shy at first, before blackberry paste, hibiscus and cola aromas arise. It's medium-bodied on the palate, with bright blueberry, marjoram and black pepper flavors, bound together by prominent acidity.
This notable Gewürtz starts with an aromatic, fresh fruit nose—melon, flowers—tinged with spice. On the palate, the wine offers an elegant array of white fruit, citrus and spice flavors and a shot of balancing acidity. The wine offers complexity but is also fun and refreshing, not perfumy or heavy.
This noted Napa producer has excelled at Petite Sirah for a long time, and with the impressive 2010, they've out-done themselves. The wine comes from a vineyard block, said to be more than 70 years of age, that contains other varieties, such as Carignane, Grenache and Syrah. Thus, it's a field blend of the type that Italian-American vintners produced throughout much of the 20th century. Dry and tannic, with wild berry, currant, licorice, tobacco and oak flavors, the wine is wonderful now, and should develop bottle complexities until 2034.
This nuovo mondo Super Tuscan represents the first vintage of Borgo Scopeto under the management of Tenuta Caparzo, and it has a tremendous jammy, extracted quality to it, from the smooth, deep plum and blackberry nose to the soft, rich palate that exudes tons of black cherry fruit along with coffee and licorice. It's a mix of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah, and everything is working in unison.
This nutty aromatic wine is crisp, tight and with intense acidity. It has a mineral edge as well as citrus fruit, grapefruit and lemon flavors. The wine is lively, perfumed and ready to drink.
This oak-aged Barbera has a darkly concentrated ruby color, with savory aromas of cured bacon and barbecue spice. A sour cherry note and bright acidity appear on the rich finish.
This oak-aged blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Marzemino opens with sweet aromas of ripe fruit and Christmas spice backed by leather, pipe tobacco and honey-glazed almond. The wine shows crisp freshness and citrus accents on the close.
This oak-aged blend of equal parts Pinot Bianco and Chardonnay opens with a beautifully intense bouquet of vanilla bean, peach cobbler and citrus mousse. White almond and toasted spice make for rich accents on the long fresh finish.
This oak-aged blend of Malvasia, Fernão Pires and Viosinho is soft with light green and citrus fruits. There is a creamy texture as well as a touch of spice from the wood. Drink this now.
This oak-aged blend of Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Chardonnay shows enormous intensity and personality, and it offers beaming aromas of sun-ripened peach, apricot, pear and exotic fruit. Smooth sensations of honey and vanilla cream drive the long, generous finish.
This oak-aged blend of Sangiovese (50%), Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a dark ruby color and aromas of black cherry, cassis and exotic spice. Smooth, sweet berry fruit characterizes the finish.
This oak-aged Chardonnay from Piedmont in northern Italy offers an intense bouquet of yellow fruit, lemon soda and ground clove. Those wood influences also appear in the mouth, where the wine shows a creamy, rich texture.
This oak-aged Chardonnay opens with aromas of candied fruit and butterscotch. The bouquet presents oxidized aromas, with creamy yellow-fruit and vanilla bean flavors.
This oak-aged expression of Pinot Grigio is compelling and outstanding. The wine opens with ripe aromas of papaya and apricot with slight touches of vanilla and lemon cream. The rich mouthfeel would match hearty clam chowder or lobster.
This oak-aged Merlot, which includes 10% Sangiovese for extra acidity and brightness, opens with spice, wood shop, toasted almond and ripe cherry notes. It offers a chewy, succulent quality, and it finishes with a dark fruit flavor.
This oak-aged Touriga Nacional is rich and opulent. It offers fine tannins, flavors of dark chocolate and spice as well as black plum and berry fruit. It's dark and firm at this stage with tannins and dense fruit. Drink from 2020.
This oak-aged Verdejo is yellow in color, with aromas of mustard and apple cider. In the mouth, this is weighty and a bit candied despite offering acidic cut. Outright sweet flavors of peach and melon finish mustardy like the nose, with oaky, resiny notes.
This oak-aged Vermentino is pristine and fresh in style, and the palate offers some heft. Nuances of exotic fruit, lemon zest, apricot and almond cream appear on the finish.
This oak-aged wine is intense, rich and packed with black fruits. It has spice from the wood as well as from the Syrah in the blend, while the juicy ripe character comes from Alicante Bouschet. It's an impressive concentrated wine that will be best from 2018.
This oak-aged wine is rich and concentrated. It is dominated by spice from the wood and by generous white-stone-fruit flavors. Still young, this ripe wine will develop well over the next few years. Drink from 2018.
This oak-aged wine is rich and intense. It is a ripe blend of Arinto and Viognier, with a pinch of Chardonnay. Together they give the wine its perfumed character, spiced and with a beautiful streak of acidity. Although ready to drink, the wine is young and will be better from 2018.
This oak-dominated wine recalls the ubiquitous wood-driven Tuscan offerings from the late 1990s and early 2000s. A blend of Cabernet, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Syrah, it delivers hardcore oak, wood chips, vanilla, chocolate and espresso sensations, with black currant and blackberry lying low in the foreground.
This oak-draped wine offers aromas of plastic, vanilla and resin mixed with spicy plum and berry. The palate is firm and dry but fresh, with plum and black cherry flavors that are moderately spicy. A spunky finish shows ample acids.
This oak-driven Aglianico opens with aromas of coffee, toasted wood, espresso and black fruit. The dense, extracted palate offers oaky vanilla and sugar-plum alongside drying and astringent wood tannins.
This oak-fermented Sauvignon (in an artsy, screwcap bottle) delivers a rich, spicy finish and thick layers of peach, citrus, tomato leaf and honey-like aromas. It's a gorgeous wine that is an absolute pleasure to drink.
This oak-fermented wine may have little connection to the Douro, but it is a full, ripe and tropical-fruit flavored. The toast is only perceptible in the smooth creaminess of the texture while acidity and a crisp lemon edge give the wine an attractive final lift. Drink from late 2016.
This oak-free Chardonnay combines pear and tropical fruit flavors in a somewhat simple but pleasant package. Shows some oiliness to its texture and a touch of warmth on the finish, but it's a good effort overall.
This oak-heavy blend of Chardonnay and indigenous Sicilian grapes opens with luscious tones of toasted almond, apricot and candied lemon. There's a spicy vanilla note on the close, and the wine will appeal to those who appreciate an oaky Italian white.
This oak-heavy Syrah from northern Argentina opens with milk chocolate, mint, vanilla and briary berry aromas. The palate is full and chewy, with a creamy, resiny feel and peppery, spicy, herbal blackberry flavors. An oaky, slightly green tasting finish is round in feel.
This oak-tank-fermented Chardonnay is light and nuanced with notes of toast, pear and green apple. The palate is densely flavored, creamy in feel, speckled with mineral notes and a streak of tart acidity throughout.
This oak bomb of a wine smells like charred wood, wood smoke and black pepper. It tastes much the same, with a lingering charred finish. Medium to full bodied, it holds only a modest core of fruit.
This Oak Ridge bottling is rich and unctuous. Scents and flavors of rose petals mingle with a lightly soapy, oily, broad midpalate that floats along on a bed of flowers, stone fruits, toast, hazelnuts, caramel and stone. A splash of everything, but it comes together in a seductive, open framework with just enough acid to support it.
This oaked Chenin shows great structure and power now, with the potential to cellar nicely for another three years or beyond. Toasted brioche, wood-grilled peaches and quince aromas open up immediately on the bouquet and carry through to the palate alongside seductive accents of sweet spice, almond skin and orange oil. The texture is round and full, and the spice-driven finish is long and satisfying.
This oaky blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) sees 10 months of barrique for extra intense notes of spice, cinnamon, clove and general woodshop. There is black fruit, cola and blackberry pie as well, but the wine needs a few more years of aging to find balance.
This oaky number offers enough meaty fruit to keep itself on an even keel. Gritty berry and sawdust aromas lead to a full-bodied, resiny palate. Woody, drying flavors rest heavily atop a core of medicinal, herbal berry fruit. It's ripe and resiny on the finish, which is consistent with what came beforehand.
This oaky Pinot isn't as generous as you'd like a Santa Rita Hills wine to be. It's tightly wound and acidic, with raspberry, cranberry, cocoa and sandalwood flavors. Drink up.
This oaky white is concentrated in peach, apricot and melon flavors. A stark, underlying acidity provides freshness on the midpalate. The finish is defined in lemon peel.
This oaky wine opens with a huge pop of toasty, burnt aromas. It's resiny feeling, with a creamy palate. Hard time spent in Hungarian barrels has resulted in flavors of toasty apple, cinnamon and peppery spices. This lacks harmony.
This oaky wine smells like baking spices and tastes almost sweet. It has jammy fruit flavors, warm vanilla and cinnamon accents, a soft texture and vanilla echoes on the finish.
This oaky, creamy Malbec is one of Karim Mussi Saffie's trilogy of 2011 La Consulta single-vineyard varietals, and they are so similar in aromas, body weight, flavors and high oak levels that they are virtually interchangeable. Like its bretheren, this pours on the wood, vanilla, graphite, pencil eraser and resin along with sweet blackberry and cassis flavors. Maybe with time in the bottle it'll gain more individuality.
This oaky, fruity Chardonnay is lush and opulent. It has flavors of buttered toast, sweet cream, pineapples, tangerines, tropical-fruit jam, sautéed bananas and limes, accented with brisk acidity.
This oaky, ripe, fruit-forward Chardonnay will appeal to fans of the California style. It's massive in pineapple jam, lemondrop candy and vanilla crème brûlée flavors, brightened with crisp acidity. A little obvious, but delicious.
This Octagon is dark and charred smelling, with aromas of blackberry, cocoa, savory spice and cherry. The palate is tight yet finessed, bearing vigorous yet manageable tannins that should eventually fade with time to reveal a charming wine. Flavors of graphite, fines herbes and coffee grounds add interest to the finish.
This odd blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah and Zinfandel is earthy and mulchy on the nose, with coffee and compost aromas. It never finds much freshness as the flavors suggest compost and leafiness.
This oddball blend of 55% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Chardonnay (both fermented in oak) and 25% Riesling (fermented in steel) actually works reasonably well. The nose is a blend of lime and peach, and despite the oak treatment, this medium-bodied wine is fruit driven, lithe and long.
This oddball grape is a German hybrid cross between Sylvaner and Pinot Blanc, and has nothing to do with Muscat (hence the "k"). Intense, concentrated aromas of tangerine, kiwi and orange, with a noticeable foxiness. Ripe fruit, big flavors, and a lot of weight on the palate.
This oddly named Cabernet Sauvignon is fine. It has light tannins, a juicy, stalky character, upfront black currant fruit and balanced acidity. Drink now.
This oddly perfumed and quite tannic wine is hard to decipher in terms of fruit. It remains light bodied amid the grip.
This oddly shaped bottle of lightly colored wine shows aromas of boysenberry, dried rose petals, cranberry soda and minty root beer. The flavors reflect the nose, showing rose hips and pomegranate, proving very flavorful and refreshingly light.
This ode-to-the laborers twist-top bottling is a solid sipper, with aromas of turned earth and black slate giving depth to black cherry and blueberry fruits that sit atop a mole sauce made from chocolate and dried bell peppers. The palate offers more dark fruit, chocolate and lava rocks, set amidst fine-grained tannins.
This ode to the owls that surround the region's vineyard is a compelling mix of Pinot Noir and Grenache that offers juicy cherries and strawberries on the nose alongside smoked meat, allspice, nutmeg and a touch of caramel. The flavors are broad, inviting and rich, with black cherry, blueberry and smoked beef. It's as delicious as it is avant garde.
This off-dry (11.5% alcohol) Riesling is a fruit-driven wine, with a tangy sweet/tart mouthfeel reminiscent of Vouvray. Meyer lemon, apricot, lime and candied pineapple flavors pile on. There's plenty of natural acid to cut through the sweetness.
This off-dry blend of Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris and Muscat shows the last grape first and foremost. The Muscat shines and shimmers with scents of orange blossoms and sweet, lively fruit. The wine is aromatic as promised, delicate and tilting toward the floral, though with good, solid fruit structure.
This off-dry bottling shows orange blossom, light honey, tangerine rinds, lemon zest and the slightest hint of petrol on the nose. There is decent zip to the palate, where orange-soda and lime flavors ride a sugary frame.
This off-dry character is a hard style to work well. This wine succeeds because it has kept a dry background as well as strong minerality, so the almond-perfumed character of the wine is beautifully restrained and delicate. Drink the wine from 2019.
This off-dry Gewürztraminer opens with a powerful bouquet of bergamot, violet and rose perfume that seeps into the palate. The aromatics are a bit overwhelming, but bright tangerine flavors stand up well. It's a light-footed wine that finishes briskly.
This off-dry Riesling's honey-kissed peach and nectarine flavors are lip-smackingly sweet. Its light, sprightly texture and high-toned acidity lend balance and refreshment. Brisk and easy-drinking, it offers loads of quaffable appeal.
This off-dry Riesling awakens the palate with a piercing strike of lemon-lime acidity, but recovers quickly with pliant layers of sweet berries, yellow cherries and pear. It's sharp and brisk, but mouthwatering and juicy.
This off-dry Riesling boasts pretty fresh apple and floral notes on the palate, but persisting notes of dried herbs and spring ramps distract. Sprightly on the palate with delicate lemon acidity.
This off-dry Riesling has a nose of flowers and warming spices, followed by slightly sweet and spicy fruit (apples, pears, vanilla) flavors. The wine is simple but appealing.
This off-dry Riesling has enough acid to balance the 2.7% residual sugar. Aromas of flower and citrus blossom lead into lemon-driven fruit. There is just a bit of a granular, sugar-like feeling on the tongue.
This off-dry Riesling has exuberant aromas of orange blossoms and ripe red berries. It balances concentrated apple and honey flavors with flashes of green herbs and brisk, lime-tinged acidity. So light and dainty, it's easy to drink.
This off-dry Riesling hits 32 g/L residual sugar, though it is not especially sweet. Some skin flavors add a bit of bitterness to the fruit, and the orange pekoe tea and brown sugar blandishments are not entirely integrated. A bit more bottle age should help.
This off-dry Riesling offers an abundance of juicy lemon and green apple refreshment. It's approachable and fresh with a lingering sweetness that's not at all cloying. The finish is brisk and clean.
This off-dry Riesling offers plenty of concentrated apple juice flavors accented by a dash of lemon and savory apple pie spice. There's a hint of petrol throughout that adds a layer of depth, but overall, it's simple and easy drinking.
This off-dry Riesling seems herbal on the nose with a hint of fresh cut grass and bark, but in the mouth, it's all bright, ripe tropical fruits and tangerine. Medium bodied with a racy acidity to offset the sweetness.
This off-dry rosé is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. A light copper hue, it offers simple strawberry flavors, with some supporting acidity.
This off-dry sparkling is made from 78% Flora, 13% Pinot Noir and 9% Chardonnay. It works in its inviting, rich array of stone-fruit and tropical accents, met by a floral underbelly of inviting aroma. Creamy, voluptuous and well-made, it'll pair well with spicy dishes and is perfectly refreshing and delightful on its own.
This off-dry sparkling wine has ripe cherry fruits as well as a touch of tannin for texture. It is crisp, clean, delicately fruity, and ready to drink at any time.
This off-dry version of Orvieto offers fragrances of ripe pear and stone fruit. On the easygoing palate, hints of bitter almond accent yellow peach and green apple. It's simple but well made.
This off-dry white blend offers primary stone-fruit and tangerine flavors in a brisk light-footed package. It's harmoniously sweet with a slightly earthy dusty finish. Drink now.
This off-dry wine falls on the sweet side, with pleasant honey/lemon tea flavors up front. The fruit is followed with some earthier notes, and a quickly fading finish.
This off-dry wine has a firm, tannic structure. The ripe strawberry flavors are soft and rounded, while the aftertaste is firm and structured by vibrant acidity.
This off-dry wine is fresh, light and fruity. Bright pear and quince flavors are given a boost by great acidity, spice and a light touch of mineral texture. Drink now.
This off-dry wine is highly perfumed and spicy, with enough acidity to balance the bergamot and candy flavor. Attractive depth of flavor gives the wine richness and a full body. Drink from 2016.
This off-dry wine is solid, with a mix of lemons and oranges in a broad, fruity midpalate. A thick streak of sweet tea comes up also, and the wine, though blocky and one-dimensional, is quite nice chilled down as an apéritif.
This off-dry wine offers fresh acidity and delicious hints of honey and yellow fruits. It is fruity, rich while still full of the typical freshness of young Chenin Blanc. Let the wine round out and drink from 2017.
This off-dry wine offers ripe strawberry flavors and refreshing acidity. It's a summer-evening drink, although it would do just as well round the fire
This off-dry wine presents a great balance between the spicy flavors and the tropical fruits. It's a lightly textured wine, already accessible, with a touch of pepper at the end along with just enough acidity.
This off-dry wine with its ripe apple and apricot fruitiness is soft and smooth. From the creamy mousse to the gentle acidity, it is rounded with a touch of spice at the end. Drink now with pâtés or blue cheese.
This off-dry, honeyed Tokaj wine has a penetrating minerality that extends from start to finish, with aromas of honeysuckle and fresh tangerine skin. Slightly dusty on the palate, it shows hints of dried herb and crushed stone, and it finishes on a delicate flower tone.
This off-the-wall blend of 55% Zinfandel, 37% Barbera and 8% Shiraz works quite well, with aromas of pressed elderberries, crushed violets and dark chocolate. The sip starts off juicy, fresh and approachable for many palates, showing cooked black plum, more tart plum skin and salt and pepper spices.
This offeing is a clean, fruity wine with pear and white peach flavors. It is soft, lightly tangy with orange zest and attractively ready to drink.
This offer aromas of plum jam, Oriental spice, underbrush and a whiff of blue flower. The lively, approachable palate doles out juicy black cherry, blackberry, white pepper and clove alongside vibrant acidity.
This offering comes from a two-acre parcel of Quail Hill Vineyard, the coolest pocket of the site. Earthy, herbal and savory, it's seamless in black cherry, clove and plum. A bite of acidity enlivens the palate before a finish of tannin and oak.
This offering from a well-known négociant is made in a lighter style and has good flavor. The essential ripeness of the vintage shows; there is some texture to the mouthfeel and it wraps up with a clean finish of good length.
This offering from the Tuscan coast begins with a floral and spice fragrance of violet and white pepper. The palate offers a solid core of black cherry punctuated with mint and Mediterranean herbs along with firm but ripe tannins.
This offering opens with aromas of melon and tomato vine. The palate delivers creamy white peach, cantaloupe and lemon drop flavors, brightened by a crisp, acidic streak.
This offering, which is bolstered by 6% Petite Sirah, offers a cohesive nose of allspice, root beer, vanilla, slate minerality and a dark berry core. The root beer and cola spices are strong on the sip, where fatter plum and mulberry flavors are balanced by decent acidity and lightweight tannins.
This offers a base of bright cherry flavor, followed by light tobacco and spice tones. Pair this with grilled lamb chops or roasted pork rolls.
This offers a bouquet of peach and honeysuckle. It is lightly sweet, with flavors of white peach, apricot, orange rind, and honeyed herbal tea and a nice flash of lemon candy on the finish.
This offers a bright and intense bouquet of white flower, peach blossom, almond paste and orange zest. A pretty sensation of sweetness gives it a round, creamy feel on the finish.
This offers a classic Nebbiolo nose of rose petal, dark berry, tilled earth and a balsamic note. The lean palate shows sour red berry, grilled herb, clove and a hint of mocha on the finish. Tightly compacted tannins and brisk acidity need time to unwind. Drink after 2019.
This offers a classic Zin nose, with dried strawberries, plums, white sage, black loam and a minty lift. The palate is juicy but restrained, with ripe olallieberries cut by licorice and tobacco, bound together with considerable grip.
This offers a core of dense, rich fruit that's fairly intense, swirls of vanilla and baked apple tart come mostly to mind. The intensity builds up midpalate before lurking off the tongue on the finish.
This offers a distinctive take on Boushey fruit, with a lot of green tea in the tannins. The berry flavors take a back seat to the vineyard's distinctive highlights of earth, cured meat, and Rhône-like bacon fat.
This offers a firm, dense structure, with dark tannins and big, ripe, opulent fruits. At the same time the elegance that is the hallmark of the domaine is equally present with stylish red fruits and a velvet texture. The wine needs to age to be at its peak, although it is beautiful now. Drink from 2020.
This offers a glimpse onto Amarone tradition and heritage. Rather offering modern tones of spice and chocolate, this has ethereal aromas of wild berry, cassis, licorice, cola and dried apple skin. Bight acidity brings up the finish.
This offers a great taste of an iconic vineyard for less than $30. Tart cranberry, bay leaf and sagebrush make for an expressive nose. The palate is laced with thyme, sage and more bay-leaf as well as nutmeg, which all sit atop dark red, almost-purple fruit, making for an intriguing combination.
This offers a hint of honey in the nose, then moves into a fresh palate loaded with a full range of yellow fruits. The acidity is spot on, and a suggestion of wet cement adds a hint of mineral to the lengthy finish. Drink now through 2024.
This offers a pleasant range of characteristic Pinot Gris aromas and flavors, ranging from pear and melon fruit to gingery spice. It's round in the mouth and offers a faintly silky texture on the mouthwatering finish.
This offers a pleasing intermix of fruit and spice, from blackberry and plum to Cab-like cassis. Juicy, mouthfilling and structured, it has a finish all about cinnamon and peppercorns.
This offers a raw, sharp note of garden herb and white cherry. The natural acidity and crispness suggests it should pair well with cheese ravioli in a sage butter sauce.
This offers a slightly less formal and austere expression compared to Cesari's Bosan. Perfect for chicken or pork roast, this delivers fresh acidity beyond the tones of cherry, cola, leather and barbecue spice.
This offers a sunny, Mediterranean take on Cabernet, bearing bold blackberry and ripe fruit aromas, plus notes of spice, toasted nut, dried rosemary and dusty mineral. The mouthfeel is firmly structured and compact.
This offers a surprisingly savory look at this sun-drenched appellation, with aromas of smoke, mineral and Kalamata olives. The cherry flavors are full bodied with a palate-coating, slightly tacky feel that smooths out over time.
This offers a tight texture, toast and spice flavors, and intense juicy acidity. With a firm structure and concentration, it has potential for long-term aging. The yellow fruits are beginning to open up while the more citric character is already giving the wine great freshness. Drink from 2018.
This offers a well-defined balance between ripe, juicy cherry fruit and a seductive earthiness that keeps every sip intriguing. Structured and medium in weight, it's a fine choice for the table, the spiciness on the back palate particularly well-honed and worth recognition.
This offers allspice aromas around a thin core of hard-to-decipher fruit and a finish that veers into burnt-rubber territory.
This offers alluring aromas of ripe berry, iris and a whiff of baking spice. The savory palate boasts succulent wild cherry, raspberry, aniseed and tobacco accompanied by ripe, chewy tannins and bright acidity. It's still young but will develop complexity. Drink 2017–2027.
This offers alluring black-skinned berry, violet and tobacco aromas. The savory, structured palate delivers black cherry and chopped mint flavors, with clove accents, bright acidity and fine-grained tannins.
This offers an aromatic core of blackberry, cherry and plum notes that are offset by tobacco, leather and brown-spice accents. A touch of prune surfaces on the lush, round palate, and the acids stand out on the cherry-skin-flavored finish.
This offers an unusually full-bodied take on this variety. It shows a vivid gold color, with generous apricot and pear aromas followed by a lush texture that carries apricot, vanilla and almond flavors across the palate. This was barrel-fermented and had extended aging before release.
This offers appealing notes of cranberry, cherry and orange peel along with a kiss of vanilla. It's tart and fresh in style with puckering fruit flavors—perfect for the dinner table.
This offers aromas and flavors of plum, savory spice and cigarbox, with an overall dry and focused character. A smoky spice note finishes the wine. Pair this with grilled lamb, pizza or steak.
This offers aromas and flavors of raw red berry, toast, coffee, powdered sage and oak extract. Raspy tannins give it a drying, astringent finish.
This offers aromas and flavors of red raspberry, blue flowers, weedy underbrush and a whiff of dried sage. It's rather simple and already accessible.
This offers aromas and flavors of roasted coffee bean, toasted oak, ground black pepper and prune steeped in spirits. The palate has raspy tannins and lacks fruit richness, giving it a hard edge.
This offers aromas and flavors suggesting raisin, toast, Asian spice, French oak, espresso and licorice. Showing the heat of the vintage, this is already evolved and much of the fruit has dried up while astringent tannins grip the finish and dry out the palate.
This offers aromas and flavors suggesting unripe apricot, peach and lime. The simple palate is a bit raw, but crisp acidity gives it clean, bright finish.
This offers aromas of almond, citrus zest and orchard fruit. The firm, rich palate delivers lemon drop, white peach and yellow apple while bright acidity and small, persistent bubbles provide the framework. It ends crisp and refreshing.
This offers aromas of baked earth, pressed rose, dark cooking spice and mature plum. The bright palate offers black cherry, raspberry, clove and anise accompanied by vibrant acidity. Enjoy through 2016.
This offers aromas of bell pepper and raisin, with a whiff of toast. The warm, round palate shows ripe black-fruit flavors, layered with red-bell-pepper and coffee accents. You'll also notice an alcoholic warmth to the close.
This offers aromas of black-skinned fruit, tilled soil and worn leather. The ripe palate delivers prune, coffee and toasted hazelnut with chewy tannins and the heat of evident alcohol. Drink through 2021.
This offers aromas of blue flowers, dark berry, coconut and a balsamic note. The warm, forward palate delivers baked plum, ripe cherry, anise and vanilla alongside firm tannins.
This offers aromas of candied cherry, cake spice, charred earth, cured meat and a whiff of underbrush. On the rich palate, notes of vanilla and black pepper accent chocolate covered cherry, raspberry and raisin accompanied by velvety tannins.
This offers aromas of coffee bean, coconut and plum. The firm palate delivers espresso, oak-driven spice and a green note of sage accompanied by grainy tannins that leave an astringent, mouth-drying finish.
This offers aromas of dark-skinned berry, Asian spice, menthol and new leather. The juicy palate delivers wild cherry, crushed raspberry and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. It shows good concentration and body for the vintage.
This offers aromas of dark-skinned fruit, coconut and French oak. The oak sensations carry over to the lean bracing palate along with espresso and a hint of raw cherry. Raspy tannins give it an astringent finish.
This offers aromas of dark berry, spice, tobacco and a whiff of vanilla. The palate delivers ripe black cherry layered with chocolate, coffee and white pepper. This is delicious and already drinking well but should develop complexity with more cellaring. Drink now through 2019.
This offers aromas of dill, wet leaves, hay, pickled beets, roasted coffee bean and spearmint. The palate lacks fruit richness, delivering instead espresso and vanilla-sweetened oak. Astringent tannins generate a tongue-drying finish.
This offers aromas of feral berry, black olive and bell pepper followed by a black fruit flavor that's touched by a herbal note. It starts out better than it finishes.
This offers aromas of honeydew melon and vanilla. On the palate, gentle flavors of nutmeg, cinnamon and eucalyptus predominate over a bright burst of citrus. Tannins are a tad bold for a relatively delicate white wine, but they are tempered by baking spice flavors that wash across the tongue and notes of tangerine on the back palate.
This offers aromas of jasmine, hawthorn and ripe pear. The round palate delivers creamy green apple, white peach, tangerine zest and a note of honeyed almond accompanied by racy acidity and a foaming mousse.
This offers aromas of just-crushed grapes, a note of chopped thyme and a whiff of moist soil. The palate is simple and soft, offering wild strawberry and a hint of fennel seed alongside round tannins.
This offers aromas of mature black fruit and raisin. The palate delivers a vibrant black-cherry core, layered with accents of black pepper and Asian spice. It also has fresh acidity for the vintage, and will pair well with buttery dishes or cured meats.
This offers aromas of mature plum, berry, toasted oak and coffee. The straightforward palate offers roasted coffee beans, espresso, dried black cherry and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins. The fruit is starting to dry up, so drink soon.
This offers aromas of new oak, coconut and a whiff of exotic spice that carry over to the underripe palate along with tart cranberry and an orange zest note. It lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the oak while raspy tannins leave an astringent finish.
This offers aromas of oak, chocolate and raisin. On the palate, black cherry and prune flavors are accompanied by bittersweet chocolate, vanilla and evident oak sensations. This is already evolved, so drink over the next year or two.
This offers aromas of oak, coconut and roasted coffee bean that carry over to the palate along with a hint of dried black cherry and a confectionary note. It lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the oak while raspy tannins give it an astringent finish.
This offers aromas of oak, vanilla, camphor and grilled herbs along with a whiff of cherry liqueur. On the palate, coffee, sage and balsamic notes accent a core of steeped black cherries. Extremely astringent tannins grip the finish.
This offers aromas of plum, violet, leather and a whiff of dark baking spice. The juicy palate doles out ripe black cherry, blackberry jam, star anise and a hint of orange zest framed in lithe tannins.
This offers aromas of pressed rose, cherry marinated in spirits, aromatic herb and menthol. The bracing palate shows raw red cherry, clove, white pepper and a hint of mocha while assertive tannins and racy acidity provide the framework. It's still young and aggressively tannic so don't attempt before 2019.
This offers aromas of raisin, mature black fruit and spice. The palate is very lush and ripe, with plum and black cherry flavors layered with oak, chocolate, vanilla and espresso accents. It might not have much personality or complexity, but the flavors are defined and alluring.
This offers aromas of red berry and blue flowers. The vibrant palate delivers tart red cherry, unripe strawberry and a note of white pepper. Racy acidity and firm tannins make this a good match for pastas topped with ragù or hearty Tuscan soups.
This offers aromas of red berry, leafy underbrush and a whiff of chopped mint. The juicy palate delivers succulent black cherry, orange zest and ground pepper alongside sleek tannins.
This offers aromas of red rose, wild berry, dark cooking spice and a whiff of sun baked earth. The ripe palate offers black cherry marinated in spirits, licorice, game and a hint of chocolate alongside velvety tannins. The warmth of alcohol closes the finish. Drink 2018–2029.
This offers aromas of ripe dark fruit, crushed rose, and a warm whiff of toast. On the palate, notes of clove and grilled sage accent a core of wild cherry. It's still young, with nervous acidity and assertive but refined tannins. Drink after 2018.
This offers aromas of ripe plum, black berry, fig, spice and underbrush. The palate delivers crushed black cherry layered with sweet baking spices and grilled herbs alongside firm tannins. This will be even better in 2015, but then drink it soon.
This offers aromas of scorched earth, underbrush and a whiff of oak. The firm palate offers sour cherry, fleshy strawberry, toast, coconut and espresso alongside assertive, close-grained tannins that leave a mouth-drying finish.
This offers aromas of tilled soil, black-skinned berry and a whiff of baking spice. The round palate presents vanilla, clove and blackberry jam alongside smooth tannins. Drink through 2019.
This offers aromas of toast, espresso, scorched earth, red berry, clove and a whiff of leather. The lean, tense palate offers dried cherry, grilled herb, anise, coffee and tobacco but not much fruit richness. Tightly wound, bracing tannins and nervous acidity provide the framework.
This offers aromas of violet, rose, Marasca cherry and a whiff of cake spice that carry over to the warm palate along with a whiff of toast. Tightly packed tannins give it a firm finish.
This offers aromas of white spring flower, orchard fruit and almond. On the straightforward palate, a hint of mineral underscores pear and citrus.
This offers aromas of wild berry, baking spice, toast and a floral note. On the firm palate, notes of vanilla, clove and powdered sage accent a sour cherry core alongside nervous acidity. Close-grained tannins grip the finish. Drink 2018 through 2026.
This offers aromas of wisteria, jasmine, white stone fruit and a whiff of almond. The luminous palate doles out green apple, white peach, nectarine zest and a hint of crystallized ginger accompanied by vibrant acidity and small, persistent bubbles.
This offers aromas of yellow apple, lime and toasted walnut that carry over to the firm palate. Vigorous medium-sized bubbles follow through to the somewhat bitter finish.
This offers aromas of yellow stone fruit and pressed acacia flower. On the lean palate, racy acidity frames suggestions of yellow apple skin, lime and salty mineral while a bitter almond note marks the close.
This offers aromas of yellow stone fruit, chopped herb and a whiff of white almond. The round, juicy palate shows apricot, white peach, candied orange zest and a mineral note. Fresh acidity brightens the ripe flavors.
This offers aromas recalling wood shop, coconut, French oak and menthol while the palate offers cranberry, espresso, star anise and a green note of powdered sage. Tightly wound, assertive tannins grip the finish.
This offers aromas suggesting camphor, grilled herb, red berry and a whiff of exotic spice. The straightforward palate offers chocolate covered cherry, baking spice and espresso alongside firm tannins.
This offers aromas suggesting cherries marinated in spirits, underbrush and a whiff of camphor while the firm but rather lean palate offers grilled herb, licorice and a note of sour cherry. Astringent tannins grip the finish.
This offers aromas suggesting forest floor, porcini mushroom, grilled herb, leather and mature berry. The ripe, chewy palate displays black cherry, sage, licorice and toasted nut alongside tightly wound tannins that need to unwind. 2018–2024.
This offers aromas suggesting honeysuckle and honeydew melon while the fresh, linear palate displays grapefruit, pineapple and sage. A hint of bitter nut closes the finish.
This offers aromas suggesting mature apple, citrus, hazelnut and a whiff of dried herb. The rich, full-bodied palate doles out candied nectarine zest and ripe pear while a mineral note lifts the finish.
This offers aromas suggesting pressed wild flower and ripe orchard fruit. It's medium bodied, doling out ripe yellow apple, peach and a note of bitter almond. Fresh acidity brightens the creamy flavors.
This offers aromas suggesting ripe plum, menthol, scorched earth, leather and grilled herb. On the big, polished palate, notes of cinnamon and star anise accent a core of black cherry while velvety tannins provide structure and smooth texture. Delicious and already accessible, it also boasts some staying power. Drink 2018–2025.
This offers aromas suggesting scorched earth, stalky underbrush, leather and steeped prune. The palate shows raisin, cassis and a hint of espresso alongside raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This offers aromas that recall acacia honey, pressed flower and beeswax. The mature, evolved palate shows candied citrus zest, toasted nut and bread crust while a mineral note closes the finish.
This offers aromas that recall red berry, moist soil and a whiff of clove. The vibrant palate delivers juicy wild cherry, blackberry, chopped herb and anise alongside lively acidity and polished tannins.
This offers aromas that suggest wild berry, toast and menthol while the palate shows raw red cherry, chocolate, grilled sage and espresso. Assertive tannins grip the finish.
This offers aromatic notes of toasted grapenuts, pineapple and apricot. It drinks off dry, with a creamy feel to the light fruit flavors.
This offers assertive aromas and flavors of banana, strawberry bubblegum, watermelon and blueberry. The palate is lightweight and fruity, with a sharp acidic edge and a short, fleeting finish.
This offers Bartlett pear, citrus and of spring flower scents. The tangy palate shows yellow apple and lemon drop notes, with bright acidity that refreshes the ripe flavors.
This offers beautiful intensity and staying power. Layer after layer peels away to reveal black fruit, spice, leather, tobacco and cured meat notes. The soft, velvety mouthfeel would pair with pork, lamb or veal.
This offers big bursts of ripe cherry and raspberry jam, but that richness is complicated by minerality, earthiness and firm tannins, giving it true complexity. It's not very subtle, and you might think it's a Grenache if you didn't know what you were tasting, but it's certainly delicious. Drink over the next few years.
This offers black currant flavors and firm, stalky tannins. It has acidity, a good juicy character and a dry aftertaste. Drink from 2015.
This offers blackberry, prune and cooked plum flavors, with tones of leather and tobacco. The mouthfeel is smooth and silky.
This offers breezy aromas of lemon, citrus mousse, cut grass and sweet basil. It is bright, lively and crisp, with the kind of fresh acidity that pairs with seafood and vegetable dishes.
This offers bright cherry intensity, with raw spice and tobacco notes. The purity of those aromas gives the wine nice momentum on the palate.
This offers bright raspberry jam, herb, pepper and spice aromas. It's full of vanilla flavors, seeming somewhat disjointed.
This offers brooding, sumptuous, dark cherry fruit tinged with red rose petals. On the palate the core of ripe, intense cherry holds white pepper spice. Everything is still tightly held: wait and this will become even more engrossingly seductive. Drink as of 2017.
This offers charming floral aromas while the reserved palate provides subtle sensations of yellow fruit, bitter almond, herb and a hint of nutmeg. Crisp acidity lifts the finish.
This offers clean, clear blackberry fruit, along with pretty baking spices. No details of barrel aging were provided, but some toasty flavors are there and well integrated. The acids, however, leave a chalky aftertaste.
This offers composure: a feeling of balance, intensity, harmony and rich density. The bouquet yields pretty tones of bold blueberry, smooth chocolate, teriyaki, cola, dried ginger and sweet pipe tobacco.
This offers creamy richness and notes of apple-cinnamon, citrus and pear. The mouthfeel is not too dense but is rather fresh and zesty.
This offers delicate blue flower and white pepper scents. The straightforward, rounded palate doles out raspberry and white almond flavors. Drink soon.
This offers dry, straightforward herb and plum flavors, moderate tannins and medium body. A sturdy wine, it should be versatile with food.
This offers earthy aromas layered with ripe black fruit and a hint of chocolate. The palate opens with succulent black-cherry, plum and white chocolate flavors, but then finishes abruptly. Drink now. L.A. Dick and Ambrosia
This offers earthy aromas of game, tilled soil, leather and forest floor. The lean rustic palate offers suggestions of dried cherry, a hint of dark spice and a gamy note alongside firm acidity and dusty tannins.
This offers earthy aromas of prune, scorched soil, pressed violet and a whiff of game. On the simple, informal palate, hints of black pepper and coffee add interest to the core of dried black cherry.
This offers earthy aromas of tobacco leaf and mushroom, along with ripe blackberry and raisin notes. The rich, round palate delivers plum, prune, black pepper and graphite notes alongside a welcome freshness that lifts the palate and adds finesse.
This offers enticing aromas of peach, yellow flower and a whiff of aromatic herb while the round medium-bodied palate shows juicy apricot, yellow apple and a pleasantly bitter-almond note. Bright acidity lends freshness.
This offers enticing scents of white spring flower and green apple. The juicy palate doles out pineapple, peach and tangerine while a note of candied drop wraps up the finish.
This offers everything you want in a Napa Cabernet, and at a decent price. It's dry, balanced in acidity and tannins, and elegantly constructed, with classic blackberry and cassis liqueur flavors touched by oak. Not an ager, and doesn't pretend to be; just a nice wine to drink now.
This offers excellent refinement, with high-toned red-berry fruit and sarsaparilla that are on the edge of jammy—in a good way. Noticeable yet balanced acidity and generous tannins provide a solid structure.
This offers exceptional concentration and power. Sweet strawberry fruit is dense and detailed, bringing hints of spice and milk chocolate into play through a long, utterly satisfying finish.
This offers flavors of lemon, lime and vanilla, with clean, refreshing acidity. It's a zesty wine, and it could make for an alternative sipper to basic Chardonnay.
This offers fresh aromas of citrus, orchard fruit and mango. On the bright, linear palate, vibrant acidity underscores grapefruit, Kaiser pear and green apple. A mineral note closes the tangy finish.
This offers fresh flavors of pear fruit, with a lightly fleshy mouthfeel. The length and balance are in proportion. Drink now through 2018.
This offers fresh fruit flavors of watermelon and strawberry. Delicate and flavorful, it's perfect for sipping on your porch, deck, boat or simply while picnicking.
This offers fresh, soothing sensations of citrus, dried grass and white flower. The style is Brut, which means this expression is slightly drier than the majority of Proseccos found on the market today.
This offers friendly apple and stone-fruit aromas. This is a prototypical brut Cava with modest peach and nectarine flavors. The finish is fruity, clean and pleasant. Drink with ease or blend into a sparkling-wine cocktail.
This offers fruit cocktail aromas, with canned pears and light honey, making for an inviting if not varietally typical nose. The flavors are light once sipped, closest to nectarine and apricot. This would be a very drinkable lunchtime wine.
This offers fruity and spicy fragrances of blackberry and clove. On the palate, it has a tight core of black cherry and spice, with firm, chewy tannins that are tightly wound. Give this a few more years to come around.
This offers generous tones of cherry, dried raspberry, moist tobacco, cured meat and white truffle. It is 
elegant, fine and extremely polished; hold for 10 years.
This offers good quality for the price from this historic producer, which heads south to this dry-farmed vineyard planted in 1976. The wine shows lots of lemon scents, from blossoms to peels, along with browned butter, sea salt and smoke. The palate offers singed lime peels, red grapefruit skin, iodine and sour yellow apple peels, proving quite complex.
This offers grassy, ashy aromas of green-leaning berry and plum fruits. It feels grabby and choppy, with berry flavors that lead to a dry, lightly herbal-tasting finish.
This offers great value for the quality, a mix of salty brine, stone and caramel apple that delves into more voluptuous dabs of pineapple. Light-bodied and food-friendly, it shows focused acidity and restrained oak.
This offers heady aromas of honeysuckle, white stone fruit, dill, hay and a vegetal note that recalls tomato leaf. The tangy palate offers juicy grapefruit, white peach and honeydew melon while mouthwatering salinity provides depth.
This offers heady aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, blue flower and a whiff of tilled earth. On the soft succulent palate, brown pepper and a hint of saline accent fleshy plum and ripe black cherry. It's smooth and easy drinking, with supple tannins.
This offers hearty fruit layers of black cherry, prune and plum, followed by notes of spice, leather and cola. It shows power and determination on the finish, with soft, velvety tannins.
This offers intense aromas of acacia flower, peach blossom and apricot. The palate delivers citrus, walnut, bread crust and stone fruit flavors balanced by vibrant acidity and closes with a clean, dry finish. Perfect on its own or paired with delicately seasoned fish dishes.
This offers intriguing aromas of chopped mint, menthol, leather, soil and spiced berry. The mint note carries over to the chewy palate, along with soothing licorice, clove and tobacco, all of which add depth to the core of juicy black cherry. Velvety tannins lend structure and polish. It's already accessible and will make wonderful imbibing over the next several years. Drink through 2025.
This offers just about the biggest, boldest aroma and taste profile you will ever find in an Italian red. The correct food pairing is essential (rare prime rib or aged cheeses) because of the firm, dusty nature of the tannins. The finish shows crushed stone and powdered black licorice.
This offers layers of toasted nut, chocolate, jammy black fruit and tobacco. The mouthfeel is soft and smooth, with a good deal of richness and density to drive it forward over the palate.
This offers light berry and melon flavors, with a tart, slightly peppery bite. Good texture and overall balance make this a pleasant quaffer.
This offers light red fruits and a dusting of spices. It's modest and balanced, with proportionate tannins and a chocolate note from aging in French oak barrels. It's a light, pleasant, but nondescript wine.
This offers light, brambly strawberry and cherry fruit, along with hints of fresh herb, Dr Pepper and licorice. It's pleasant but somewhat insubstantial.
This offers lots of oak-infused blackberry jam and chocolate flavors. It's a little bit too soft and sweet.
This offers lovely floral fragrances of violet, iris and pressed powder. The palate shows sour cherry flavors layered with clove, white pepper, nutmeg and espresso notes. The finish is short and dry.
This offers mature black-skinned fruit and underbrush aromas. The palate is ripe yet firm, delivering prune, mocha and clove clove flavors blanketed in chewy tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
This offers modest aromas of lightly toasted pear and peach. The wine is alive in feel, with zesty acids pushing mid-level nectarine and citrus flavors. The finish offers up a touch of wood but also lots of acidity that washes everything away.
This offers much of the intensity of Amarone with some of the easy-drinking appeal of Valpolicella. Twists of ripe cherry and dried ginger lend it extra personality.
This offers notes of grapefruit rind, lemon pith and mineral. It drinks a hair off dry with a medium-bodied feel to the citrus flavors.
This offers notes of white strawberry, cherry and melon rind on the nose and mouth. Medium-minus in weight, flavors of lime peel and tart cherry skin lend astringent grip to the close.
This offers oak, toast, espresso, eucalyptus and earthy game aromas. The tight, no-frills palate offers Marasca cherry, mocha, orange peel and roasted coffee bean flavors. Close-grained tannins leave a firm finish.
This offers pleasant notes of apricot, dark caramel, grapefruit, gooseberry and pineapple. It's medium in weight and texture, with acidity on the finish. Swirl it early and often to get the aromas going.
This offers plenty of tannins and a dry, firm structure along with the weight of ripe plums, blackberries and a rich character. The wine is certainly going to age, with its solid texture and bold fruit aftertaste. Drink from 2017.
This offers pretty aromas of fragrant blue flower, rose and wild berry. The tightly wound palate shows Morello cherry, coffee and a hint of dried herb alongside close-grained tannins. Drink 2019–2024.
This offers pretty aromas of perfumed dark berry, cake spice, leather, toast and a balsamic note. The full-bodied palate offers young red cherry, mint, oak, espresso and sage. Firm but velvety tannins and bright acidity provide the framework while a mocha note closes the finish.
This offers pretty aromas that recall white spring flower, almond and acacia. The juicy, medium-bodied palate offers ripe pear, lemon peel, hazelnut and a hint of dried mint alongside fresh acidity.
This offers quality that's almost the equal of Seifried's primary label Pinot Gris for a couple dollars less. Melon rind, pineapple and cinnamon notes are pervasive. This is plump and expansive on the palate, yet remains focused through the soft, elegant finish.
This offers raw aromas of black cherry, plum, prune and blackberry jelly. The mouthfeel is smooth, rich and chewy.
This offers red cherry and black cherry aromas with a touch of earthiness. Vivid cherry and blackberry flavors partner with a tart, lively texture buoyed by crisp acidity. The wine is light bodied, moderately tannic and leanly appetizing.
This offers red currant, black cherry and chocolate flavors, with a hint of green pepper. It's round and accessible, with soft tannins.
This offers reserved notes of cherry and raspberry compote, cranberry, earth and assorted dried herbs. With the oak pleasantly dialed back, the focus remains on the fruit. The palate displays exquisite purity, elegance and detail, with a light grip of tannins pulling it all together. It's drinking beautifully now, but you could open it up in 2025 or 2030 and it wouldn't bat an eye.
This offers ripe cherry and blackberry notes, followed by bright acidity and a palate that bears medium density. It's a great food wine to pair with breaded veal, sausage or meatloaf.
This offers ripe dark-skinned berry, chopped herb, baking spice aromas wrapped in balsamic savor. On the palate, chewy tannins weave through wild cherry, black raspberry, cinnamon and star anise flavors. Drink 2018–2024.
This offers ripe notes of prune and blackberry, with a nutty nuance. The mouthfeel is round, plush and smooth.
This offers ripe plum and red-berry aromas, accented with a touch of bitter almond. It has a clean and refined palate, showing black cherry and white pepper flavors. Fresh and spicy, try this with pasta all'arrabbiata.
This offers ripe yellow and green pear shot through with grapefruit zest, with a yeasty, savory streak on the midpalate and a touch of pineapple. Certainly ripe and rounded—but beautifully tempered by lively white pepper.
This offers savory aromas of old spice and Indian market with bright background nuances of tar, cola and dried berry fruit. There isn't much fresh fruit, but there is a touch of sweetness on the finish.
This offers savory tones of smoked bacon, cured meat, licorice, candied fruit and leather. The finish is very smooth, long and polished.
This offers scents and flavors that recall stewed prune, raisin and black pepper. It's still tight, with aggressive tannins that leave a firm clenching finish. Give it a few years to let the tannins unfurl then drink up to capture the remaining fruit.
This offers scents that recall baked plum, dark baking spice, leather, espresso and a hint of menthol. The round, medium-bodied palate displays mature Morello cherry, fennel seed and coffee while fine-grained tannins provide support.
This offers simple layers of cherry, spice, cola and toasted almond. The mouthfeel is soft, plush and mild.
This offers smoky, toasted oak and herb aromas, full candied cherry and plum flavors, low acidity and fairly firm tannins.
This offers soft, ripe fruit with acidity, delicious forward tannins and cherry flavors. Bright and fruity, the wine is ready to drink.
This offers soft, slightly sweet aromas of cherry and cinnamon, with touches of leather and tobacco. It shows an easy, smooth mouthfeel.
This offers strong oak and smoke aromas, plus ripe black cherry, chocolate and plum flavors. Full body and firm tannins make it assertive. Not a cocktail wine, this needs to pair with some heavy meat.
This offers subdued aromas of citrus fruit, toasted nut and a whiff of medicinal herbs while the vivacious palate shows lemon-lime and underripe green apple. Zesty acidity and brisk, medium-sized bubbles give it a fun, informal character.
This offers subdued aromas of dark berry, oak, espresso, exotic spice and a whiff of violet. The palate shows dried black cherry, star anise and roasted coffee bean alongside firm but fleeting tannins that give it a rather short finish.
This offers subdued aromas of elderflower, sage and a slight whiff of tomato vine while the crisp palate shows notes of mint and tropical fruit. Vibrant acidity gives it a clean, racy finish.
This offers subdued aromas of Mediterranean brush, chopped mint, mature black-skinned fruit and whiff of menthol. The easygoing palate doles out dried black cherry, prune, cinnamon and a hint of star anise framed in round tannins. Enjoy soon.
This offers subdued aromas of scorched earth, toast, grilled herb and mature black-skinned fruit. The lean palate shows raw sour cherry, orange rind and a hint of baking spice alongside grainy, fleeting tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This offers subdued aromas of vanilla, toasted oak and a whiff of dried orchard fruit. The palate isn't very expressive, displaying buttery notes, white almond and just a hint of citrus peel but it lacks fruit richness to stand up to the racy acidity.
This offers subdued aromas of white spring flowers, citrus and orchard fruit. The bright, creamy palate offers tart green apple and lime alongside vibrant acidity and a soft, frothy mousse.
This offers subdued aromas suggesting leather, raisin, spice and menthol. The bracing palate displays dried prune, tobacco and the heat of alcohol but not much fruit richness. Raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This offers subdued aromas suggesting orchard fruit and pressed yellow flower. The straightforward, rather lean palate offers citrus, saline and a hint of green pear alongside fresh acidity.
This offers subdued aromas suggesting pear, acacia, sage and hazelnut that carry onto the ripe palate along with yellow peach. Bitter almond marks the finish.
This offers subdued whiffs of blue flower, red berry and a hint of moist soil. On the rustic, rather diluted palate, bracing acidity and raspy, fleeting tannins accompany suggestions of tart sour cherry and orange peel. It finishes on an astringent note.
This offers subtle aromas of wild spring flowers and stone fruits. The lean palate suggests Bartlett pear and unripe white peach alongside brisk acidity.
This offers subtle black-skinned berry and cooking spice aromas. The straightforward palate evokes ripe blackberry, tobacco and licorice and is blanketed with velvety tannins. Drink through 2019.
This offers subtle black-skinned fruit, leafy underbrush and cooking spice aromas. The dense, forward palate shows dried cherry, blackberry jam and licorice notes, with assertive tannins that leave a firm finish. Drink through 2022.
This offers subtle fruit characteristics, with scents of violet and rose in the background. A bright cherry flavor appears on the palate, where the wine delivers a syrupy, soft sweetness.
This offers that tempting aroma of toasted baguette with a dab of butter, then the flavors flow fresh and peachy, while the texture feels smooth and the body not too full. Well balanced between flavors, acidity and body, it brings refreshment to sip after another.
This offers the classic Nebbiolo fragrance of blue flower, red rose, woodland berry, tilled earth and whiffs of cake spices. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper framed in big, chewy tannins.
This offers the vinous elements of fruit cocktail, combining hints of peach, pear and citrus in the glass. That fruit mélange tightens up on the finish, reined in by an extra squirt of mouthwatering lime.
This offers toast and spice aromas, with opulent apricots and white peaches along with intense freshness from the acidity and linear structure. The wood aging just shows through in the roundness of the wine, while leaving room for a fresh, crisp, mineral aftertaste. Drink from 2018.
This offers typical Nebbiolo aromas of dark red berry, blue flower, truffle and a whiff of game along with a balsamic note. The young palate is still tight but shows dried black cherry, clove, black pepper and tobacco while firm, fine-grained give it a solid grip. Chopped mint closes the finish.
This offers typical Sangiovese aromas of wild berry, crushed blue flower, aromatic herb, new leather and a trace of pipe tobacco. The ripe, chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, raspberry compote, licorice and espresso while brawny, velvety tannins envelope the palate.
This offers unusual aromas that suggest worn out leather, scorched soil and a whiff of cellar floor that carry over to the palate along with prune, dried berry and a bitter note of powdered sage. Astringent tannins leave a tongue-drying finish.
This offers vibrant aromas of red cherry, blackberry, leather, spice and cigar box. There are dark touches of resin and brown sugar that are followed by notes of smoked bacon and cured meat. This is dark, masculine and concentrated.
This offers warm, dried-fruit aromas of prune, plum and raisin. The palate shows some subdued sour cherry and mint but it's dilute and falls apart quickly, leaving a short finish.
This offers whiffs of soft leather and persistent flavors of lightly ripened fruits, strawberries and Bing cherries. It's modest in proportion but stylish, with lingering flavors nuanced with clay and limestone.
This often-overlooked grape brings big, blocky, fruit-powered flavors of lemon and pear. It falls on the sour side of acid, with just a hint of vanilla.
This old-school blend of Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon shows ample body and flavor in its unfussy approach to succulent red fruit and subdued tannin. Moderate in build, it has dusty acidity and a soft finish that will please a wide range of palates.
This old-school winery sticks to tradition, so if this new-release Merlot seems older than it is, that's by intention. The color is light, and the wine already carries fading edges. The nose is earthy and the flavors are spicy.
This old-vine (planted 1972) Pinot offers delicate, yet complex details throughout the palate. It's elegant winemaking at its best—a pinpoint mix of herb, stone, berry and barrel—seamless and precise. Despite (or perhaps because of?) the low alcohol, this has the potential to age; try after 2018.
This old-vine cuvée from one of the region's leading estates boasts aromas of bubble gum and passion fruit. This soon after release, that's not surprising; expect them to settle down into more restrained notes of cherry, melon and passion fruit over the next month or two. It's medium bodied and has a long, mouthwatering finish.
This old-vine Riesling matches medium sweetness (25g/L) to ample acidity. It's a dense and flavorful style, taut and fleshy at the same time. The peachy fruit hints at ripe banana as well, with a lick of butterscotch adorning the finish. Drink now through 2022.
This old-vine site, now entering its fifth decade, brings a lean, tight profile to this wine, with a strong mineral foundation. The structure and sleek styling, with tangy raspberry fruit and a slightly chalky finish, suggest that this wine will improve now through 2025 and beyond.
This old-vine wine contains 12% Carignane and 8% Petite Sirah, and is one of the larger of the producer's single-vineyard offerings. Feral black fruit and fig form a core of concentrated richness before red-berry pie and vanilla come into play, finishing with a blur of toasty oak.
This old-vine wine shows signs of rotten fruit, certainly aromatically. On the palate, it is tight with dark tannins and a hard, extracted edge. It is hard to tell if it could soften. This property liess in both the Castillon and Franc appellations. Wine is vinified plot by plot.
This old-vine Zin contains a dash of Petite Sirah. It smells like bacon and wood smoke and tastes like smoked beef. It's an extreme version to say the least, and will not be for everyone.
This old-vine Zin has washed-out aromas and a savory, leathery character, tannic grip and a hit of smoke on the finish.
This old-vine Zin tastes of tar and overripe fruit and is blandly sweet.
This old-vine Zinfandel also has Carignane and Petite Sirah and is full of red fruit and decent spice but it falls flat under the weight of alcohol on the finish.
This old-vine Zinfandel with a dusting of Petite Sirah and Tannat in the blend is stewy, soft and fairly simple.
This old-vines beauty from one of Rueda's top producers offers pure and inviting aromas of fresh apple, citrus and mineral. It tastes of lemon-lime and green apple, while a mineral quality carries onto the fresh and zesty finish. Drink now.
This old-vines Rueda delivers green-leaning aromas of Granny Smith apple, lime and lettuce. A citric, stony palate is linear and direct, with fine-tuned acidity. Citrusy flavors of lime and green apple turn briny on the finish.
This old-vines wine is really clean and light on the nose, with aromas of red apple, fresh-cut white sapote and blanched almonds. The laser-focused palate is dominated by a refreshing texture, like sipping an ice-cold martini or licking a steel knife, with sea salt and lemon peel flavors most prevalent.
This old domaine dating from the 16th century is run by one of the most famous families in Burgundy. It produces a ripe yet crisp Hautes Côtes de Nuits, with enough lively acidity to balance its rich yellow and citrus fruit. It will be ready to drink soon, certainly from late 2017.
This old favorite has an excellent new release. A classic style of Zin, it surrounds generous fruit and spice flavors with a firm texture and appetizing tannins. It starts with light black pepper and sage aromas to complement the rich blackberry and raspberry fruit, and finishes with lingering nuances of spice and berry.
This old tawny Port has developed a green-gold color and extreme concentration. With a beautiful floral perfume, the flavors are of almonds, acidity and a bite of spirit, while overall is the beautiful smooth texture.
This old vine blend is made predominantly from Touriga Nacional, giving it concentration balanced by black currant fruit and crisp acidity. It's structured and tightly textured but drinkable now.
This old vine wine is a grand expression of the Baga grape. It has dark color and rich tannins that will allow its bold berry fruit to age well. A serious, stylish wine, it's worth aging and drinking from 2019.
This old vines Pinot has an unusual strength of flavor. It's easily the most powerful of Lynmar's new Pinots, with deep, brooding cherry and red currant flavors that have been concentrated to syrupy intensity like a boiled-down fruit-wine sauce. It's impressive, but intensely rich. Give it 5–6 years to see if things change.
This Old World-style blend comes across medium in body, with an emphasis on dry red fruits. The nose is earthy and a touch leafy smelling, with vanilla shadings and lots of plum and berry. In the mouth, it's crisp and focused given its age, with raspberry, plum and strawberry flavors. A light finish with fading cherry notes is a good close. Drink through 2014.
This Old World-style red starts with a savory, complex nose of rich meats, tobacco, leather and smoke. The flavors are a blend of spicebox, tobacco, smoke and cedar. Its elegant tannic structure and generous mouthfilling character will attract collectors and lovers of Bordeaux wines.
This older Albariño is hanging in there but it should transition to past its prime in the near future. For now, the nose offers aged citrus notes and pithiness. The palate is citrusy in feel but fading, while flavors of orange and peach pit finish bland. Drink immediately.
This older offering from a warm year doesn't smell like your average Pinot Noir; it's rich in berry aromas and woodsy smelling. In the mouth, this is a touch blocky, even after six years in bottle. Herbal plum, baked cherry and spice flavors finish toasty, grabby and with lingering heat.
This older vintage Chardonnay has a flinty, saline quality to it and a faint taste of waxy apple. Medium in body, it's savory and surrounded by citrus tones with a high note of acidity. Clean and integrated it's a nice reminder of how Chardonnay can be just as fresh and alive five years on as upon first release.
This older vintage of a hot-climate Merlot is almost past its prime. The wine appears old and delivers aged notes of resin, tar and asphalt with little fruit. It has a brownish hue and tastes spicy and gritty.
This older vintage of Torreforte from Tenuta La Lumia opens with a slightly brownish hue and delivers aged aromas of tar, resin, drying mineral and powdered licorice. The wine tastes firm, solid and ends with gritty, texture tannins. It's near its peak of drinkability: don't wait to pour it.
This older vintage Syrah still has some fruit but otherwise shows drying tannins and leathery smoke.
This older wine displays an intriguing mix of baking spices, chocolate-covered cola cherry and menthol, combining nicely on the palate in juicy, fruit-forward waves. With a small amount of winery-identified Durif, it holds together through the peppery finish.
This older wine is 64% from Alexander Valley and 36% from Mendocino County. It offers meaty flavors of soy and leather, the fruit elements starting to decline. It's still interesting, though, and holding on to a core of acidity. Do not decant.
This older wine seems to have lost some of its youthful appeal, showing older characteristics of caramelized oak and weedy herb. The structure is beginning to show a mushiness that causes the wine to fall somewhat apart.
This once common and now hard-to-find grape makes for a hearty wine, with earthy aromas of baked soil, composting rose petals, dried but not raisiny black fruit and rustic leather. Dried red cherry starts the sip, with more earthiness on the midpalate, including gravel and asphalt—a very interesting wine.
This one's heavily about the oak. Comes out with spiced-up, minty aromas. Next up is a full and biting palate with buttery lead flavors followed by bitter black fruit. Flashes by quick on the finish.
This one-barrel bottling is quite intriguing, offering unexpected aromas and flavors. An element of crunched grapeseeds and unfermented wine grapes mixes with licorice, olive and pepper on the nose. A similar sense pervades the palate, along with light coffee and brown tea flavors. It's slightly odd, but also an interesting change of pace.
This one-dimensional Brunello opens with overripe black fruit aromas. The dense palate offers sweet plum and mature black raspberry layered with notes of vanilla, mocha and balsam. Reflecting the warm vintage, it's shy on intensity and energy so drink soon.
This one-dimensional wine has muted aromas that recall tropical fruit. The palate doesn't give much away either, revealing subtle citrus and pear notes alongside racy acidity.
This one-note Cabernet is overoaked and weakly constituted. A balsam wood note drives the notes and palate, start to finish.
This one-of-a-kind in the state wine was fermented on skins for 12 days, giving it a light-orange color. The aromas leap up from the glass, with notes of spice, lychee, orange peel and mineral. The palate is dry and textured, with a rich but still sleek feel. Put it on the dinner table to see it shine.
This one-of-a-kind offering from Chehalem celebrates what they are calling a “great” vintage. The wine is dark, supple and immensely rich and dense, yet retains a lightness that captures the elegance of the Pinot Noir grape while propelling it to rarified heights. The mix of red and purple fruits, herb, spice and earth all come together in a smooth and seductive wine that drinks like a dream.
This one-time-only blanc de blancs is made from a Stony Hill Chardonnay clone planted in a single block of the producer's vineyard—since planted to Pinot Noir. This sparkler is sublime, the mousse silky and speckled in minerality. Lemon, pear and brine combine to good effect on the palate, buoying the exuberant fragrances of orange peel and cream pie.
This one comes from the Mouton branch of the Rothschilds. Showing its age a bit already, with mature apple and wood varnish aromas that perk up a bit on the palate, where they pick up some attractive lemon nuances.
This one has bland aromatics, with only a touch of oak to grasp at. The palate is almost spritzy, which it shouldn't be, and the flavor resembles Mott's applesauce. A bit weak and only qualifies for an acceptable rating on its best day.
This one has extreme funky, deep aromas of tree bark and barnyard. But those smells yield to friendly layers of black cherry, plum, coffee and kirsch. We don't think this wine is for everyone (one of our panelists flat out did not care for it), but the depth and chewiness on the palate cannot be short-changed.
This one is a typical, off-dry Vinho Verde with a light prickle and the crispest fruit. The wine is very light, very bright and clean with attractive acidity at the end. Drink now.
This one is all about the seductive and sexy side of Pinot. The ample bouquet is pure elegance, with an atypically rich cherry and chocolate character. The luscious mouthfeel supports the plummy flavor, which is accented by clove, lavender and anise. For a big and chewy wine, there’s structure, but overall it’s a friendly softy. Drink now or over the next few years.
This one smells like a French Prosecco, with effusive bubbles and a citrusy bouquet. Off-dry, with lots of orange flavors. It finishes with a lively, lengthy, orange-rind explosion. This is very well made, and invites a second or third glass. It rests gently on the palate, and lingers pleasantly.
This one takes on an orange tint, and the aromas are akin to chocolate, spice cake and even some baked beans. The palate is quite crisp and healthy, with berry fruit, citrus and length. A good wine with a racy, cleansing feel. It's not spectacular but it ranks highly among similar competitors.
This onion-skin-pink wine is fruity, crisp and well balanced. Red-berry aromas follow through to the palate, joined by touches of roasted almonds as well as crisp, tight acidity. Still very fruity, the wine is ready to drink.
This opaque Carmenère opens with oaky, charred aromas of black fruits, coconut and burnt toast. The palate is full, meandering and ultimately heavy and extracted. Dark, toasty flavors of black fruits, resiny oak and vanilla finish with grabby tannins, spiky acidity and long-lasting blackened notes.
This opaque Graciano from Toledo weighs in at 15% abv and smells like black currant and grape juice concentrate. An intense, loud palate features smooth tannins but abrasive acidity. Limited but lusty flavors of blackberry and black plum finish juicy and with medium length and depth. Drink through 2019.
This opaque Malbec smells grapy, with foxy animal notes mixed in. Flush on the palate, but with abrasive tannins, this tastes like it smells: grapy blackberry with herbal notes and mild toast make up the flavor profile. A dark, blackened finish is big and spicy more than fruity and refined.
This opaque Malbec weighs in heavy, with fully ripe aromas of jammy blackberry, raisin and baking spices. A gigantic palate is packed with lemony acidity and resiny oak. Flavors of blackberry, prune and cassis come with chocolaty richness. The finish is rugged and hard, with massive tannins. Drink through 2022.
This opaque Merlot is charred to the max, with burnt coffee, grilled beef and campfire aromas. The palate is wiry but mostly good in feel, while mossy, herbal-leaning flavors of toast, blackberry and black pepper finish with coffee and herbal notes.
This opaque purple blend of Tannat and Merlot opens with heavy oak aromas that suggest carob, plastic and cheese. A full, scratchy palate with rubbery tannins is bold and tastes savory and stewed, with notes of black plum keeping it afloat. A lightly herbal finish is efficient.
This opaque, fully extracted blend of Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon smells outright grapy, with a spunky pomegranate note. A syrupy laziness to the palate and jammy blackberry flavors finish chewy, with a leaning towards Concord grape. Tasted twice with similar findings.
This opaque, thick-looking wine opens with crusty, toasty aromas on top of an array of ripe berry notes. This is a blocky, saturated blend with flavors of herbs, tomato sauce and salt. A solid feeling finish with mild heat and burn is the lasting impression.
This open-knit, yet chunky Toro features sweet, oaky aromas of plastic, mocha and baked plum. Concentrated and creamy on the palate, it tastes of chocolate, vanilla and savory blackberry. Full, chunky and bold but balanced on the finish; drink through 2023.
This open and fruity expression of Malbec is helped to softness by its ripe Merlot. The wine is floral, fruity and lightly touched by tannins. Red-fruit flavors and a crisp aftertaste add balance to this ready-to-drink wine.
This open and generous wine is attractive and ready to drink. White peach and pear flavors give it great fruitiness without losing sight of acidity. It's fruity, softly textured and just right now.
This open ripe wine is made for drinking young. Its soft red fruits, light tannins and acidity all come together in an easy fruity wine. Drink now.
This open, fruity wine has a soft side. Apples and pears are prominent along with a touch of spice. Drink now.
This open, fruity wine is named after Cape Bojador in the western Sahara, which Portuguese sailors rounded in the 15th century on their way around Africa. The wine's red fruits and acidity are easy, ripe and with a juicy aftertaste.
This open, fruity wine is ready to drink. It offers some spice as well as a light smattering of apple and toast flavors. The aftertaste is all about fruit and acidity.
This open, generous wine is already completely in its stride. Ripe yellow fruits are given freshness by flavors of orange zest and citrus. The wood aging shows, but gently, rounding out the fruits and adding a note of spice. It's a full wine, ready to drink in 2015.
This open, perfumed and fruity wine is crisp and bright. It also has a warm, apricot and ripe pear fruitiness that balances the citrus acidity. It's attractive now and ready to drink.
This open, soft wine brings out some of the ripe fruit flavors of the vintage. It has attractive melon and apricot fruit along with a tight streak of mineral acidity. It's ready to drink now, although it will be better from 2017.
This opens bearing scents suggesting banana and tropical fruit, with an oily character. On the palate, the flavor veers toward sour apple, with tart acids. The finish brings in a lick of butter, but at the moment it doesn't quite come together. This may benefit from more bottle age.
This opens from aromas of dried black fruit, spiced plum, sage, pipe tobacco and mocha. The rich palate offers ripe blackberries, anisette, coffee and a chocolate note alongside smooth, velvety tannins. While it's concentrated, it manages its heft with surprising finesse. Drink through 2019.
This opens green and herbal, with a disconnected mix of unripe and grapy fruit flavors. The new barrel aging brings toast and butter, but behind that the wine is still disjointed and the fruit flavors all up front.
This opens hard and crusty, but with airing it softens as chocolate, plastic, creamy oak and spice aromas emerge. The palate is compact and fairly full bodied, with herbal, roasted, leathery tasting berry flavors that end with savory, oaky notes. Overall, this is a good blend of Cabernet and Carmenère.
This opens has a bold appearance with dark extraction. The aromas that follow are reminiscent of ripe cherry, cinnamon spice, plum and pulpy black fruit. Round and soft, this closes with firm grittiness.
This opens hot and heavy, with pounding berry aromas and a touch of animal fur. The palate is full and compact, with jammy, syrupy berry and woodspice flavors. A long finish tastes of licorice and oak.
This opens immediately into a lush, varied, flavorful wine that's broadly fruity and generously endowed with toasty oak highlights. It's drinking beautifully already, but is also nicely structured for aging through 2022.
This opens like an exploding hand grenade filled with pyrazines and jalapeño extract. The narrow, acidic palate is lacking in depth, but at least it's fresh. Briny, green flavors of jalapeño and bell peppers never let go, while the finish is tart and green, with a lasting note of bell pepper.
This opens offers defined aromas of black cherry, cassis, cola, tar, spice, tobacco and Spanish cedar. An ethereal tone of chopped mint or rosemary oil also appears on the finish. The mouthfeel is crisp, taut, firm and long.
This opens softly, with murky aromas of tomato and prune. It feels heavy and dense, with big tannins and mild acidity. The flavors of prune, mocha, fudge and stewed berry are rich and weighty. This is dense and ripe, a touch flat.
This opens up with a heady fragrance of apricot and Spanish broom. The palate offers fleshy peach and juicy lemon flavors, along with notes of pineapple and almond that support the wine's bright acidity.
This opens up with an alluring fragrance of rose, violet, ripe berry and wild herb. The succulent palate delivers juicy raspberry, black cherry, licorice and black pepper alongside lithe tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with a beautiful fragrance of rose, violet, perfumed berry, leather, baking spice and a balsamic note. The palate is still young, weaving together sour cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, anise and mocha alongside assertive but finely grained tannins. Drink 2018–2024.
This opens with a beautiful fragrance of rose, violet, red berry, new leather, turned earth and balsamic notes. The palate delivers Morello cherry, red raspberry, espresso and mint alongside astringent tannins that still need to integrate.
This opens with a blast of bell pepper and leafy berry aromas. The palate is juicy but scratchy, while flavors of plum, raspberry and herbs finish tart, with no evolution.
This opens with a blast of berry fruit and a note of spice. It feels bouncy, full and healthy, with black fruits and dark spices comprising the flavor profile. The finish is short, but fruity and clean.
This opens with a blast of diesel along with tarry asphalt. The mouthfeel isn't bad, but there isn't much life to the wine. It tastes bitter and oceanic, like horseradish and sea shell. Foamy and coarse on the finish.
This opens with a blast of espresso bean that lends a modern twist. The oak tones are softened by wild berry and licorice notes. The mouthfeel is steely, fresh and firm.
This opens with a blast of funky, jumpy wild berry. The palate feels fresh, with a lot of fruit, acid and extract. It tastes saturated, big and grapy, with herb-influenced wild-berry and animal notes.
This opens with a blast of resiny oak, but airing calms things down, and ultimately the bouquet is round and full, with a mix of wood, vanilla and tropical fruit aromas. This is chalky, minerally and full in feel, accented by apple, pear, melon and spice flavors. Leftover oak and savory spice flavors dominate the finish.
This opens with a bouquet recalling blue flowers, berries and white pepper. The palate delivers concentrated dark cherry and blackberry fruits as well as accents of espresso and orange peel. The aggressive tannins, typical of the grape, are balanced by a vein of fresh acidity.
This opens with a bouquet that's packed with bold berry fruit aromas, plus a mineral accent. It feels zesty, solid and slightly clampy, with plum and cherry flavors that lead to a tight, juicy finish, with modest length and power
This opens with a breeze of air freshener, tropical oils, green fruits and apricots. Fresh and crisp in feel, it has mild green-fruit flavors that are led by notes of lime and lychee. The finish is creamy, tropical and slightly bitter.
This opens with a breezy fragrance of citrus zest and mandarin leaf, hinting at deeper, riper peach within. The palate is soft but defined; while slender, it still abounds with citrus-framed peach.
This opens with a bright fruit tone backed by notes of raw spice, fresh ginger, cola and dried herb. The palate shows clean, bold intensity thanks to the firm, polished nature of the tannins.
This opens with a bright golden color and immediate aromas of butterscotch, candied fruit and smooth almond paste. The wine is naturally robust and structured.
This opens with a cherry liqueur note and dark concentration. There's a touch of barbecue smoke or teriyaki sauce backed by gritty tannins and ripe fruit.
This opens with a classic Nebbiolo fragrance of Morello cherry, dried rose petal, mint and thyme. The ripe palate offers up crushed black cherry, prune, black pepper, cake spices and licorice alongside brooding tannins and uplifting acidity. It's already well balanced but will be even better in another few years.
This opens with a classic Nebbiolo fragrance of red rose, leather, perfumed wild berries, forest floor and a hint of menthol. On the palate, white pepper, mint, thyme and eucalyptus notes add depth to the mouthwatering wild cherry and ripe raspberry flavors. It's still young, with a firm, tannic backbone balanced with just enough fresh acidity. Drink 2018–2026.
This opens with a classic Nebbiolo nose of blue flower, rose, perfumed berry, new leather, cake spice and a balsamic note. The ripe, juicy palate delivers crushed black cherry, black raspberry, cinnamon, white pepper and clove framed in youthfully assertive tannins. Drink 2018–2027.
This opens with a classic Rioja nose of leather, dried cheese, roast berry and spice. It feels chunky and quite solid, with roasted fruit, tomato and herbal flavors on a deep palate. This is long and a touch warm on the finish, but healthy and ready to drink.
This opens with a classic Sangiovese fragrance of crushed violet, blue iris, perfumed berry, underbrush and baking spice with a whiff of leather and menthol. Structured but elegant, the palate offers crunchy red cherry, juicy raspberry, white pepper clove and savory herb alongside a tannic backbone and fresh acidity. It has great aging potential. Drink 2016–2030.
This opens with a clean evocation of Pinot Noir aromas—delicate, almost ethereal, like a wisp of cherry and caramel and moist earth. It turns a bit hard and acidic in the mouth, suggestion that further cellaring is in order. The pieces are here to make a wine with genuine ageability.
This opens with a creamy, fresh texture underscored with light minerality. Lime and pineapple sparkle among a wealth of citrus highlights. This almost screams out for Thai food.
This opens with a delicate and enticing fragrance of white and yellow flowers, hay and beeswax. The palate delivers flavors of golden apple, peach and lemon, with an almond accent. The smooth, weightless texture is brightened by fresh acidity.
This opens with a delicate fragrance of white flower and tropical fruit. The easygoing palate offers green apple and Bartlett pear alongside crisp acidity.
This opens with a delicate fragrance of wild flower, tilled earth, red berry and sweet baking spices. The soft palate offers up dark cherry layered with hints of mocha, vanilla, mint and subtle oak. It's not an ager so enjoy soon.
This opens with a dense and intensely aromatic nose, boasting forward oak-derived fragrances of vanilla, caramel and sweet spice that are grounded by the black cherry and berry core. Firm tannins and a full structure lend power and grip to the palate, with skin-driven fruit flavors of plum, black cherry and currant. Hints of roasted cocoa nib and charred oak show good staying power on the finish, while ample final acidity offers a slight lift to the close. Drink now–2018.
This opens with a drying bouquet of white flower, peach, talcum powder and crushed mineral. A small percent of Pinot Bianco is added to the wine for extra smoothness and structure.
This opens with a familiar taste of artificial, roasted char, then it moves on to soupy berry aromas. It feels scratchy, with flavors of hickory, baked plum and berry.
This opens with a floral fragrance of honeysuckle and lavender, with hints of stone fruit and smoke. The palate offers flavors of white peach, citrus and dried apricot, with touches of butterscotch and oak on the close.
This opens with a floral fragrance that recalls yellow spring flowers and exotic fruit. The linear palate offers restrained Golden Delicious apple and lemon zest notes, along with a mineral accent.
This opens with a fragrance of white flowers, hints of vanilla and oak. The palate delivers pineapple and lemon peel flavors and a note of cream pastry, along with well integrated oak. The wine has a soft texture and a small, persistent bead. Pair this with shellfish.
This opens with a fragrant bouquet of white flower and honey, and it shows thick streaks of glycerine that run down the sides of the glass. The wine has the heft and staying power to pair with fried calamari rings.
This opens with a fragrant bouquet of white flower, nectarine and fresh honeydew melon, leading to soft fizz and steady perlage in the mouth.
This opens with a fruit-driven bouquet of cherry and raspberry, with a red rose note. It shows a soft but slightly textured feel, with smoky endnotes of old spice and leather.
This opens with a full and succulent burst of fruit, notably cherries and plums. The rich and juicy flavors are highlighted with a streak of cola and buoyed with ample acids. This is just flat-out delicious.
This opens with a gaseous, sulfuric scent followed by aromas of peach pit, apricot, green apple and wet stones. The palate is lean and zesty, while flavors of lemon, tangerine and nectarine finish with a blend of raw acidity and oaky vanilla.
This opens with a golden hue and pretty perlage followed by fragrant aromas of lime, lemon zest, pear and green apple. There's a simple, genuine feel to it that is reinforced by the wine's lean, crisp finish.
This opens with a good mix of tobacco, black cherry, cola and mocha aromas. In the mouth, this offers good body, size and balance along with lightly herbal, leafy flavors of mossy black fruits. A mellow finish with a solid structure is a welcome ending.
This opens with a gorgeous bouquet that shows elements of fresh fruit and careful oak aging. Currant and wild berry flavors are enhanced by light strokes of vanilla bean and toasted hazelnut. Impressive brightness and crispness characterizes the long finish.
This opens with a heady floral fragrance of hawthorne and Spanish broom, with a whiff of stone fruit. It has delicious flavors of creamy peach, lemon and mineral alongside Verdicchio's unique salinity. Peter/Warren Selections, Augustan Wine Imports.
This opens with a heavy black-cherry aroma that's topped with a hint of leaf and a whiff of plastic. It feels medicinal and tastes like a mix of cherry cough syrup, oak and mint.
This opens with a light pink color, exhibiting lively aromas of raspberry, cranberry and pink grapefruit. The wine is slender and easy on the finish, with a final zesty-citrus blast.
This opens with a lightly fruity aroma that carries a hint of fresh bread, butter and vanilla. These lead to fresh, straightforward fruit flavors like canteloupe and apple, again with a bit of vanilla kicking in on the finish. The texture is smooth, rather lush and the wine is light to medium bodied.
This opens with a lovely fragrance of perfumed berries, violets, incense and sweet cake spices. Cinnamon, clove and white pepper accent the succulent red cherry and wild raspberry palate. It's fresh and elegant, with a smooth texture and supple tannins. Drink 2016–2029.
This opens with a nose of mature black-skinned fruit, leather, truffle, blue flower and cake spice. On the smooth palate, notes of cake spice and star anise back up ripe black cherry and raspberry compote. Firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2023.
This opens with a pleasing toasty aroma, following through on the palate. That deft touch of French oak (33% new) frames a solid core of strawberry preserves and Bing cherry fruit. It resonates on through a stylish, textural finish. Enjoy this immediately, and tuck away a few bottles to drink in five years.
This opens with a plush, dark appearance and generous aromas of ripe fruit, tobacco, hazelnut and bitter chocolate. It delivers balance, determination and polished tannins.
This opens with a powerful, sharp and spicy set of aromas mixing dense blackberry and boysenberry fruit with sweet smoke and chocolate-covered raisins. This is a fine effort, with sappy fruit, tart acids, streaks of leaf and vanilla, a burst of tobacco in the mid-palate, and a smooth finish with polish and verve.
This opens with a pretty bouquet of yellow spring flowers and tropical fruit. The palate offers lingering pineapple, lemon zest and pear flavors that finish clean and refreshing. Pair this with light pastas or lightly seasoned seafood dishes.
This opens with a pretty floral fragrance of acacia, Spanish broom and chamomile. The palate doles out white peach and tangerine zest alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with a pretty fragrance of acacia flower and beeswax. The linear palate offers peach and citrus flavors as well as a bitter almond and saline accent. The vibrant acidity leaves the mouth refreshed.
This opens with a pretty fragrance of rose, vanilla, black fruit and subtle oak. The juicy palate offers red cherry, black raspberry, white pepper and a hint of cocoa alongside supple tannins.
This opens with a pretty fragrance of violet, exotic spice and perfumed berry. The juicy palate doles out ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, freshly ground pepper, mocha and anisette. It's nicely balanced with fresh acidity and firm but polished tannins.
This opens with a pretty garnet color and subtle aromas of spice, crème de cassis, leather and tobacco. The wine shows compact lines with tight structure, bright acidity and a lingering note of smoky ash on the close. The style is traditional, sour and bright.
This opens with a pretty white-flower and honey notes, followed by a thick and slightly heavy mouthfeel. Barbecued shrimp would make for a great pairing partner.
This opens with a savory earth tone and drying layers of crushed stone and wet granite. There are also pretty aromas of violets and pressed blue flowers. It finishes with fine tannins and a slightly gritty texture.
This opens with a slightly pungent note of ripe cantaloupe and apricot. Distant sweetness and touch of butterscotch or caramel is detected on the creamy finish.
This opens with a soft, creamy texture and ripe aromas of spring flower, stone fruit and lemon blossom. There's a touch of sweetness on the close that would pair with light cocktail snacks.
This opens with a strong scent of herb and bud; it's sharp and aggressively leafy. The wine follows with similar flavors. The light fruit flavors of plum and berry are quickly suffocated with leaf, herb, earth, spice and tannin. Time may be the answer.
This opens with a strong sense of coconut that abruptly hits pomegranate and cranberry on the palate. The sweetness of the coconut dissipates on the finish, which veers slightly sour.
This opens with a strong sense of oak and sawdust, later giving way to herbal berry aromas. This feels plump and resiny, with slick oak. Flavors of wood resin and pepper are on equal footing with berry flavors, while the finish shows moderate residual heat.
This opens with a subtle, refined fragrance of perfumed berry, rose, violet and a whiff of sweet baking spice. On the palate, notes of roasted herb, tobacco and white pepper add depth to the core of ripe dark cherry and crushed raspberry. Bracing but refined tannins provide the framework and need time to unwind.
This opens with a thick, inky texture, and clean flavors of dark prune, cassis and blackberry preserves. The finish is rich, long and supple.
This opens with a touch of cherry backed by notes of exotic spice, leather and moist earth. It has a plush, succulent mouthfeel and crisp acidity.
This opens with a touch of reduced oak, never letting go of its sizable full-bodied cradling of wood and tannin. In the glass it begins to unfold and reveal juicy, rich red currant, cassis and berry seasoned in clove.
This opens with a very pretty nose—scents of clay, mineral, blueberry, cassis and a whiff of rather high-toned volatility. In the mouth the barrel flavors bring dusty cocoa and chocolate. A full-bodied wine, still young, sharp and edgy. Best to give it a few more years in the cellar, to smooth out some of the rawness.
This opens with a wet earth aroma, plus easy notes of black fruit and prune. On the palate, there's a ripe note of fruity sweetness that gives the wine roundness and softness on the finish.
This opens with a whiff of green and clam shell but quickly transitions to black plum and berry scents. Tannic and rugged on the palate, it has a mix of blackberry, chocolate and herbal flavors. The finish is firm, with length and more than enough power.
This opens with alluring aromas of acacia, apricot, citrus and alpine herb. The linear, elegant palate offers juicy yellow peach, lemon zest, mint and hazelnut alongside crisp acidity.
This opens with alluring aromas of Granny Smith apple, citrus zest and a hint of flint. On the creamy palate, notes of Alpine herb and mineral accent Abate Fetel pear and tangy nectarine. Lively acidity gives it a crisp finish. While enjoyable now, it will also drink well for several years. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with alluring aromas of raspberry jam, blue flower, ground pepper and grilled herb. The savory, succulent palate offers juicy black cherry, black raspberry, clove and mineral. Firm tannins provide seamless support while fresh acidity lifts the ripe, mouthwatering fruit.
This opens with alluring scents of violet, rose, red berry and chopped herbs. The fresh, delicious palate doles out pure fruit flavors of black cherry, blackberry and raspberry while licorice and clove notes offer back up. Silky tannins and bright acidity provide the pliant framework.
This opens with alluring scents of woodland berry, menthol, chopped mint, vanilla and a whiff of oak. The palate is still austere and needs to fully develop, but offers raw red cherry and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink after 2020.
This opens with an alluring floral fragrance of yellow rose, acacia and beeswax. The linear palate offers lemon, apple and pear flavors, along with Verdicchio's hallmark of bright acidity.
This opens with an alluring fragrance of aromatic herbs and white fragrant flowers. The palate offers exotic fruit and lemon drop while thyme, sage and hazelnut add interest. Crisp acidity gives a clean, refreshing finish.
This opens with an alluring fragrance of Spanish broom, wild flowers and a whiff of sea breeze. The palate delivers creamy white peach, juicy pineapple and lemon accented by hints of saline and mineral. It's still fresh and should develop more complexity. Drink now through 2015.
This opens with an aroma of cola syrup, and it seems devoid of a tannic structure and a finish.
This opens with an aromatic note of wet dog along with wild berry and plum. The palate is spunky, jumpy and lively, while flavors of plum, raspberry and berry skins finish short and simple.
This opens with an attractive fragrance of ripe plum, violet, aromatic herb and baking spice. The straightforward palate offers dried black cherry, crushed raspberry, ground pepper and leather alongside polished tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit freshness.
This opens with an enticing fragrance of rose, violet, dark berry and underbrush. The firm palate delivers juicy wild cherry, cinnamon and star anise alongside firm but fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2018–2028.
This opens with an intense fragrance of perfumed berries, crushed blue flower, hints of Mediterranean herbs and a whiff of new leather. The ripe palate brings together juicy wild cherry layered with notes of baking spices alongside supple tannins and just enough freshness. Enjoy now–2017.
This opens with an oily note that's soon replaced by generic white peach and apple scents. It feels plump, with chunky flavors of citrus, kiwi and lime, and it's mild yet fairly long on the tail end.
This opens with an unusual aroma that recalls floral air freshener, roasted coffee bean and a medicinal note. The palate is diluted with jumbled flavors of red apple skin, small berries and toasted walnuts. It has a green, bitter finish.
This opens with an unusual but intriguing fragrance of candied citrus accented by balsamic notes, aromatic herbs and slate. The bright, linear palate delivers succulent pineapple, nectarine and pink grapefruit energized by mineral notes.
This opens with an unusual combination of aromas including resin, cured meat, raisin, game and grilled herb. The aromas carry over to the evolved, one-dimensional palate along with raspberry jam and chewy tannins. It's already approachable, so drink over the next few years.
This opens with an unusual mix of watermelon, strawberry, light herbs and a buttery mouthfeel. It's on the lighter, more delicate side, with a thin finish. But fine for accompanying lighter fare, or simply sipping.
This opens with aroma suggesting raw oak and tire rubber while the jammy palate offers raspberry, cinnamon and licorice. Youthfully assertive tannins provide support. Drink 2018–2028.
This opens with aromas of acacia flower, lime and a whiff of flint while the savory palate delivers Golden Delicious apple, ginger and citrus zest. It's nicely balanced, with bright acidity.
This opens with aromas of acacia, toast and a whiff of honey. The linear palate offers golden apple, Mediterranean scrub and smoky hint of flint. A note of toasted hazelnut fills in the finish.
This opens with aromas of baked plum, toast, grilled herb and a whiff of espresso. The soft, round palate offers up fleshy black cherry, licorice, mocha and a hint of coconut alongside polished tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the juicy fruit flavors.
This opens with aromas of baked plum, violet, coconut and espresso. The palate offers fleshy black cherry, vanilla, toasted oak, anise and a confectionary note alongside assertive tannins that leave a rather astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of bell pepper, French oak and exotic spice. The aromas carry over to the palate along with prune, vanilla and a confectionery framed in close-grained tannins. The fruit is already drying up so drink sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of black-skinned berry, blue flower, French oak and a balsamic whiff of menthol. The smooth, refined palate offers dried black cherry, dark spice and chopped herb alongside supple tannins.
This opens with aromas of black-skinned berry, licorice and spice. The savory palate delivers black cherry, almond and a touch of anise set against pliant tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of black-skinned fruit and a whiff of baking spice while the round palate shows black plum, clove and a hint of sage. Pliant tannins provide easygoing support. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of black-skinned fruit, soil and grilled porcini mushroom. The dense palate delivers black cherry, tobacco and mocha set against firm tannins and the heat of evident alcohol. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of black berries, toasted oak and spice. On the palate, notes of espresso, roasted coffee bean and vanilla back up ripe black cherry but drying wood tannins give it an abrupt finish.
This opens with aromas of black berry fruit along with more rustic notes of game and a whiff of barnyard. The palate offers up crushed black cherry, toast, black pepper, espresso and vanilla alongside oak extract. The brooding, astringent tannins need time to integrate fully. Drink after 2020.
This opens with aromas of black cherry, chocolate, prune and blackberry jam. Freshness and subtle softness picks up on the rear of the wine.
This opens with aromas of black currant, crushed violet, resin and a whiff of baking spice. Since it lacks the hefty structure of most Amarones it's more easygoing, offering red cherry, mint and a hint of tobacco alongside fine-grained tannins.
This opens with aromas of black plum and baking spice that carry over to the straightforward palate together with a touch of pepper. Round tannins provide easygoing support. Drink soon.
This opens with aromas of black plum, French oak and roasted coffee bean. The dense palate offers dried black cherry, mocha and cedar alongside tightly packed tannins that leave a grippy, astringent finish. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of black plum, tilled soil, leather and fennel. The dense full-bodied palate offers black cherry and prune accented by notes of clove and graphite. It's all supported by a backbone of assertive tannins. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of blackberry, cassis and leather. The palate is full and fairly lush, with firm, rubbery tannins. Ripe, leathery blackberry and chocolate flavors finish long and with modest tannin-driven clamp.
This opens with aromas of blackberry, ground pepper and a whiff of graphite. The juicy savory, palate offers ripe black cherry, clove and licorice alongside fresh acidity and chewy tannins. Drink through 2021.
This opens with aromas of blackberry, leather, coffee and scorched earth. On the palate, licorice, clove and a balsamic note add depth to the core of dried black cherry while fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink it sooner rather later to capture the fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of blackberry, truffle and forest floor. The firm palate offers ripe black cherry, plum, espresso and clove alongside round, chewy tannins. It's already accessible and will also offer lots of near and mid-term enjoyment.
This opens with aromas of blue and red flower, underbrush and mature, dark-skinned berry. The tense palate offers black cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise tobacco and mocha alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. A note of chopped herb closes the finish. Drink 2018–2028.
This opens with aromas of blue flower, blackberry, crushed plum and a whiff of wet asphalt. The bold palate discloses black plum, prune, black pepper, coffee bean, and grilled herb alongside tightly-knit tannins. It finishes on a mocha note. Drink 2016–2023.
This opens with aromas of blue flower, ripe woodland berry and a whiff of pressed powder. The robust palate doles out juicy black cherry, mature plum, licorice and savory herb alongside firm, velvety tannins. It's concentrated and already accessible but will offer drinking pleasure for the next several years. Drink through 2021.
This opens with aromas of blue flower, rose, almond paste, forest berry and sweet spice. The palate offers fresh berry fruit and a compact, streamlined feel.
This opens with aromas of blue iris, plum and menthol. On the palate, subtle notes of sage, toast and coffee accent a core of fleshy black cherry. It still has tightly wound, drying tannins that need to unwind but it's rather shy on fresh acidity so best to enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of bread crust, citrus zest and a whiff of crushed aromatic herb. Aged on its lees in barriques, the medium-bodied palate offers toasted oak, mature yellow apple, candied lemon drop and a hint of bitter almond.
This opens with aromas of bread crust, ripe orchard fruit and a citrusy note. The creamy palate offers baked yellow apple, vanilla and toasted hazelnut alongside a soft perlage.
This opens with aromas of butterscotch, lemon cream pie and ripe stone fruit. The palate starts off with rich apricot, apple and peach flavors, but it has a very warm palate that's dominated by evident alcohol sensations. It finishes on a bitter almond note.
This opens with aromas of camphor, dried herb and red berry while the firm palate shows black licorice, peppercorn, sour cherry and a hint of tobacco. A backbone of assertive tannins provides structure. Drink after 2020.
This opens with aromas of cellar floor, moist underbrush, dried sage and a whiff of crushed violet. The robust but straightforward palate offers mature black cherry and a hint of dark cooking spice alongside close-grained rather fleeting tannins that leave a raspy finish.
This opens with aromas of chamomile flower and ripe Bartlett pear. The lively easy-drinking palate offers green apple, white peach and a juicy citrus note alongside tangy acidity.
This opens with aromas of chamomile flower, crushed tomato vine and cut grass. The vibrant elegant palate delivers white peach, grapefruit, chopped herb and lemon zest alongside racy acidity.
This opens with aromas of charred earth, violet and wild berry. The straightforward palate offers black raspberry, tart cherry and a hint of anise alongside polished tannins. It's rather simple for a Barolo and nearly accessible. Drink 2016–2021.
This opens with aromas of charred topsoil, resin, leather, game, overripe black-skinned fruit and raisin. The forward palate is equally earthy—a bit rustic even—showing fig, cured meat, carob, steeped prune, fig and a note of bitter almond alongside ripe, chewy tannins.
This opens with aromas of cherry marinated in spirits, coffee and a balsamic note that carry over to the tightly wound palate along with licorice and sage. Bracing tannins give it an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of chocolate, licorice and ripe red berry that carry over to the straightforward, jammy palate along with espresso and a toasted note. Astringent tannins grip the finish.
This opens with aromas of citrus and white flower while the palate offers unripe apple, lime and a bitter almond note. It's on the lean side, with bracing acidity.
This opens with aromas of coconut, chocolate, plum and vanilla. The extracted palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry jam, toast, mocha and roasted coffee bean alongside drying tannins.
This opens with aromas of coconut, roasted coffee bean and steeped plum. The dense, extracted palate offers oak extract, blueberry syrup, espresso and a confectionary note.
This opens with aromas of coconut, tilled soil, stewed plum and mocha. The dense palate delivers blackberry jam, dried black cherry, espresso and a confectionery note alongside the heat of scorching alcohol and velvety tannins. It's already rather evolved and accessible. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of coffee, coconut and black-skinned berry. The tightly wound palate isn't very expressive but eventually reveals dried cherry, toasted oak and espresso alongside bracing tannins. Give it another year or two for the tannins to unwind and then drink sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of cranberry, white pepper and a whiff of pipe tobacco. The firm palate offers wild cherry, clove and star anise framed in tightly knit but refined tannins.
This opens with aromas of crushed black fruit, mint, toasted oak and balsamic notes. The brooding palate offers up black cherry, licorice, black pepper and oak alongside raspy tannins that leave the mouth feeling dry. Drink after 2018.
This opens with aromas of cured meat, sweaty leather and a stalky note of moist hay. The dense palate is more expressive, offering mature black cherry, spiced plum, mocha, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside velvety tannins.
This opens with aromas of dark-skinned fruit, baking spice and chopped herb while the assertive palate shows dried blackberry, prune and clove. It lacks richness while close-grained tannins grip the tight finish.
This opens with aromas of dark-skinned fruit, toasted oak and a whiff of coconut. The palate offers black cherry, blackberry and espresso alongside close-grained tannins that leave a somewhat astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of dark berry, forest floor, dried rose, new leather and a balsamic note. On the palate, notes of white pepper, coffee and clove accent a core of crunchy red berry. Racy acidity and assertive tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2023.
This opens with aromas of dark berry, violet, toast, menthol and a whiff of cellar floor. The one-dimensional palate offers crushed plum, blackberry, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside drying, astringent tannins.
This opens with aromas of dark fruit and a whiff of used leather. The simple, light-bodied palate shows red cherry and a hint of spice alongside zesty acidity and easygoing tannins.
This opens with aromas of dried black currant, roasted coffee beans, oak and aniseed. The warm, low-acid palate offers dried black fruit, licorice, dark chocolate and vanilla, but not much fruit richness. The smooth texture is cut short by wood tannins that impart an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of dried herb and rosemary, followed by notes of smoky campfire and crushed granite. There's a pretty feminine touch on the finish that appears as perfumed blue flower.
This opens with aromas of dried yellow peach, white flower and ripe pear. Made with dried Garganega grapes, the savory palate delivers dried tangerine, apricot jam and a touch of caramel. It has good length and fresh acidity.
This opens with aromas of espresso, leather, prune, toasted hazelnut and a whiff of dark spice. The palate is evolved, showing roasted coffee bean, raisin and licorice alongside somewhat astringent tannins. You'll also note a green sensation of powdered sage on the close.
This opens with aromas of forest floor, grilled porcini, scorched earth and espresso. The lean palate offers raw red berry, sage and aniseed alongside bracing tannins and nervous acidity.
This opens with aromas of forest floor, mature dark-skinned fruit and leather. The hearty palate offers raisin, dried black currant, clove and tobacco alongside tightly wound tannins that leave a firm finish.
This opens with aromas of forest floor, truffle, ripe berry, leather, crushed blue flower and a whiff of herb. The medium-bodied, concentrated palate offers juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and nutmeg alongside integrated tannins that give the finish grip. Drink 2018–2024.
This opens with aromas of French oak, espresso, toast and a whiff of rose. The dense, chewy palate offers dried black cherry, coconut, roasted coffee bean and grilled sage alongside bracing tannins that clench the finish. An orange zest note signals the close the finish. Give the tannins a few years to unfurl then drink.
This opens with aromas of French oak, toast, menthol and coconut while the lean palate offers mint and a hint of dark spice. It lacks fruit richness while bracing tannins grip the finish.
This opens with aromas of French oak, toast, vanilla and baked plum. The robust, concentrated palate offers espresso, licorice, oak and dried black cherry alongside close-grained tannins. You'll also notice the heat of scorching alcohol that imparts a monolithic quality. Drink through 2019.
This opens with aromas of French oak, vanilla, baking spice and steeped plum. The one-dimensional palate shows dried black cherry, sour cranberry and espresso with close-grained but not very persistent tannins that dry out the finish.
This opens with aromas of French oak, weedy underbrush, coffee and a whiff of burned rubber. The palate is muddled, showing dried black cherry, toast, salt and a confectionery note alongside grainy tannins.
This opens with aromas of grilled herb, resin, stewed plum and cooking spice. The robust palate delivers raisin, dried black cherry under spirits, licorice, tobacco and dried sage alongside bracing grainy tannins that clench the finish.
This opens with aromas of grilled porcini, menthol and a hint of Asian spice while the straightforward palate offers ripe raspberry, dark cherry and cake spice. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide support.
This opens with aromas of hay, oak, dill and a whiff of cellar floor that follow over to the lean palate along with coffee grounds and powdered sage. Astringent tannins give it a bracing finish.
This opens with aromas of hay, pressed yellow flower and orchard fruit. The direct palate offers yellow apple skin, toasted nut and a mineral note alongside invigorating acidity.
This opens with aromas of honeysuckle and yellow stone fruit. On the simple off-dry palate, fresh acidity backs up ripe apricot and sweet white peach.
This opens with aromas of intense mint, menthol and a whiff of ripe dark-skinned fruit. On the palate, anise, espresso and ground pepper add depth to dried black cherry while polished tannins provided support. Drink through 2019.
This opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, incense and a balsamic note of menthol. The evolved palate has seen fresher days, showing steeped prune, raisin and the warmth of evident alcohol alongside firm but not very persistent tannins that dry out the finish. The fruit has largely dried up.
This opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, mature berry, menthol and anise. The palate offers dried blackberry, raisin and licorice alongside close-grained tannins and brisk acidity.
This opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, wet earth, cellar floor and a whiff of stewed fruit. The dense palate is already evolved, showing dried black cherry, game and walnut before a short bitter finish.
This opens with aromas of leather, black fruit, spice and balsamic herbs along with earthy notes. The palate delivers black cherry flavors accented with notes of vanilla, cinnamon. espresso and a hint of grilled herbs. However, it's evolved with a short finish, so enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of leather, sage, mature black-skinned fruit and a balsamic note. The palate offers toasted notes, espresso, spiced plum and dried blackberry alongside chewy, drying tannins.
This opens with aromas of lemon layered with oak. The palate has a creamy texture but not enough fruit richness, and is dominated by oak and vanilla. The wine reveals touches of herbs and honey before finishing on a bitter walnut note.
This opens with aromas of mature black-skinned berry, leather, menthol and dark spice. The palate seems a bit older than it is, offering raisin, bitter prune and star anise alongside close-grained but not very persistent tannins.
This opens with aromas of mature black-skinned fruit, sun-baked soil and dark spice. The palate shows dried cherry, blackberry extract and a hint of anise alongside firm tannins. Drink over the next few years before the remaining fruit richness dries out.
This opens with aromas of mature black currant and dark baking spice. The full-bodied palate offers mature black cherry, ripe blackberry, licorice and pipe tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017 through 2022.
This opens with aromas of mature dark fruit, toast and a slight whiff of cellar floor. The palate is still tight and rather closed, but offers fleshy black cherry, toasted oak, clove and mocha alongside polished tannins. It's fast approaching its ideal drinking window so enjoy sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of mature orchard fruit, lemon zest and acacia honey. The vibrant palate delivers candied grapefruit, Golden Delicious apple and vanilla alongside fresh acidity that leaves a clean finish. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of mature plum, violet and an inviting whiff of vanilla. The firm full-bodied palate offers black currant, raspberry jam and clove accompanied by bright acidity and fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2022.
This opens with aromas of mature wild cherry and pressed violet while the straightforward, juicy palate offers fleshy black cherry and a note of ground pepper. It's round and ready, with supple tannins.
This opens with aromas of mature yellow apple, citrus and acacia honey. The savory medium-bodied palate delivers juicy grapefruit, white peach and a hint of vanilla alongside bright acidity.
This opens with aromas of menthol, chopped mint, ripe berry, leather, underbrush and a hint of toasted oak. On the firm palate, tightly wound tannins weave through Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and a balsamic note. Drink after 2020.
This opens with aromas of menthol, coconut, oak, overripe black cherry, leather and exotic spice. The bracing palate shows dried black cherry, clove, ground pepper and a green note of powdered sage alongside assertive grainy tannins.
This opens with aromas of nail-polish remover and oak-driven spice that carry over to the palate while raspy tannins leave an astringent, mouth drying finish. Tried both bottles and had the same notes.
This opens with aromas of nearly overripe black fruit and hints of nail varnish. The palate delivers blackberry, chocolate, oak and vanilla flavors, along with spirit-soaked cherries. The alcohol is very evident, and although the fruit is delicious, it's one dimensional. Imported bz Panebianco, Vinity Wine Company.
This opens with aromas of new oak, burned rubber, raisin and vanilla. The one-dimensional palate offers candied date, fig, mocha and licorice alongside bracing, grainy tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish. It lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the oak spices and astringent tannins.
This opens with aromas of oak and espresso. The palate is more interesting, with ripe blackberry and spice in the forefront followed by a warm palate accented with menthol and white pepper notes. It's powerfully structured with noticeable warmth.
This opens with aromas of oak and roasted coffee bean along with pungent whiffs of farm animals. The palate offers a sour cherry flavor and bitterly astringent tannins.
This opens with aromas of oak, dried plum, toast, espresso and dark spice. The lean palate offers oak-driven spice and a hint of dried dark-skinned berry, but it doesn't have enough fruit richness to stand up the dominant wood sensations. Astringent tannins give it a palate-drying finish.
This opens with aromas of oak, espresso, mocha and plum. The firm palate offers oak extract, chocolate, licorice and black cherry alongside drying wood tannins.
This opens with aromas of oak, tire rubber, fennel and underbrush. The palate is dominated by oak and oak-driven spices alongside a confectionary note and green, astringent tannins. It lacks fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of oak, toast and a hint of white flower. The palate shows oak-driven spice, citrus zest, roasted coffee bean and yellow apple skin but it lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the dominant oak sensations.
This opens with aromas of oak, toast and espresso that carry over to the firmly structured palate along with herb and dried black cherry. Austere tannins clench the finish.
This opens with aromas of oak, toast, licorice, coconut and sugared plum. The taut palate offers dried cherry, star anise and a green note of powdered sage but not a lot of fruit richness. Raspy tannins leave a tongue-drying finish.
This opens with aromas of oak, toast, sawdust, fennel and espresso. The palate is on the raw side, showing oak extract, anise and powdered sage but not much fruit richness. Astringent tannins give it a mouth-drying finish.
This opens with aromas of orchard fruit, citrus and toasted bread crust. The firm palate offers lime, vanilla, oak and yellow apple skin alongside bracing acidity. A note of bitter almond marks the finish.
This opens with aromas of pineapple, jasmine and wisteria. The palate offers tropical fruit, apple and citrus notes alongside vibrant acidity and invigorating bubbles.
This opens with aromas of plum, menthol, licorice and a whiff of cellar floor. The palate offers dark berry fruit, clove, dried sage and white pepper alongside assertive, drying tannins and the warmth of evident alcohol.
This opens with aromas of pressed acacia flowers, ripe stone fruits and dried sage. The palate isn't overly sweet, offering dried apricot, wildflower honey and toasted almond notes.
This opens with aromas of pressed rose petal, underbrush, truffle, white pepper and leather. The already approachable palate delivers juicy black cherry, cooking spice and licorice. Drink through 2022.
This opens with aromas of pressed violets, rose petals and spice. The savory palate delivers a core of black cherry accented with nutmeg, hints of cinnamon and a licorice note. Pair this with rich pastas, semi-aged cheeses or grilled red meats.
This opens with aromas of prune, fig, raisin and espresso. The palate offers ripe blackberry, cherry, and black pepper layered with intense mint, thyme and licorice sensations. It's young but well balanced, with just enough freshness to support the bracing tannins.
This opens with aromas of prune, perfumed berry, baking spice, leather, a whiff of coconut and a balsamic note. The fresh palate offers wild cherry, crushed raspberry, lightly toasted oak, anise and espresso. It's still tightly tannic and astringent, but it should improve with a few more years in the bottle. Drink 2018–2028.
This opens with aromas of prune, resin, mature dark berry and cake spice. The palate is tight and a bit raw, showing sour cherry, licorice, toast and espresso alongside bracing tannins.
This opens with aromas of raisin, scorched earth and a whiff of leather. The brawny, straightforward palate doles out dried black cherry, prune, raspberry, black pepper and a hint of tobacco. Firm, ripe tannins provide support.
This opens with aromas of raisin, tobacco leaf, underbrush, grilled porcini mushroom and leather. The extracted palate delivers black pepper, clove, dried sage, prune and licorice supported by teeth-coating tannins. The heat of searing alcohol on the finish throws the wine off balance.
This opens with aromas of raw oak and espresso. The bracing, somewhat muddled palate offers sour red cherry, coconut, dried sage and a dusting of mocha alongside a marked metallic—almost chemical—note. Raspy tannins produce a mouth drying finish.
This opens with aromas of raw red berry, chopped herb and a slight whiff of cellar floor. The tight palate offers raspberry, morello cherry, white pepper and licorice alongside austere but refined tannins. Give this a few more years to fully come together. Drink 2020–2030.
This opens with aromas of red-skinned berry, black plum and baking spice. Reflecting the nose, the bright palate delivers black currant, white pepper and star anise alongside fresh acidity and round tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
This opens with aromas of red-skinned berry, blue flower and a whiff of clove. The straightforward palate offers tart red currant, orange zest and ground pepper alongside brisk acidity. Drink soon to catch the fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of red berry and aromatic herb. On the palate, black pepper and dried sage backup raw red cherry while bracing tannins provide the framework.
This opens with aromas of red berry and black-skinned fruit. On the fresh, easy-drinking palate, savory notes of black pepper accent ripe plum and juicy strawberry. Bright acidity and soft tannins balance the juicy fruit. Enjoy through 2015.
This opens with aromas of red berry, baking spice, violet, tobacco and a funky whiff of game. The smooth palate delivers dried cherry, raspberry jam, cocoa and carob accompanied by velvety tannins.
This opens with aromas of red berry, coffee bean and toast aromas. The palate offers up tart sour cherry, espresso and chopped sage alongside tightly packed, astringent tannins.
This opens with aromas of red berry, espresso and a whiff of sawdust. On the palate, raw red cherry is backed up by licorice, toast and roasted coffee bean but it lacks the fruit richness needed to stand up to the oak and the youthfully raspy tannins which leave an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of red berry, light spice and a whiff of rosemary. The straightforward fruity palate shows ripe strawberry, raspberry and a hint of cedar alongside smooth tannins.
This opens with aromas of red berry, rose petal, roasted coffee bean and brown cooking spice. On the palate, notes of anise, sage and white pepper accent raw red cherry alongside bracing tannins. Drink 2018–2024.
This opens with aromas of red berry, underbrush, spice, scorched earth and a funky note of wild game. The lively palate has succulent black cherry, crushed raspberry, cake spice and tobacco while velvety tannins and zesty acidity provide back up. It ends with an orange-peel finish.
This opens with aromas of red plum and baking spice while the straightforward palate delivers black cherry, clove and a tobacco note. Firm tannins give the finish grip.
This opens with aromas of red rose, wild berry, scorched earth, leather and a whiff of toast. On the palate, notes of coconut and grilled herb accent a core of raw red berry while tightly packed tannins offer support.
This opens with aromas of resin and a whiff of dried flower that follow through to the lean palate along with hints of citrus and dried stone fruit. But it's cut short by extremely bitter sensations that recall walnut skin.
This opens with aromas of resin, nail polish remover and prune. The warm palate delivers coffee, espresso and blueberry extract alongside astringent tannins and soft acidity. The fruit richness is evaporating and it has a drying, bitter close.
This opens with aromas of resin, nail polish remover, spiced plum and a whiff of cellar floor. The palate offers dried black cherry, clove, menthol and ground pepper alongside firm, drying tannins. This is evolving quickly so drink soon.
This opens with aromas of ripe berry, aromatic herb, pressed rose petal and a balsamic note. The rather lean palate offers sour cherry, crushed strawberry, sage and star anise alongside nervous acidity and tightly wound, astringent tannins that leave a rather raspy finish. Give this a few more years to unclench. Drink after 2019.
This opens with aromas of ripe berry, cake spice, leather and blue flower. The juicy medium-bodied palate offers black plum, wild cherry, coffee and star anise framed in chewy rounded tannins.
This opens with aromas of ripe berry, pipe tobacco, leather and espresso. The palate offers mature black cherry, coffee, vanilla and mocha alongside firm, drying tannins. It finishes on a licorice note.
This opens with aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, leather and a whiff of vanilla. The dense palate offers sour cherry, clove, tobacco and a touch of orange zest alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy through 2021.
This opens with aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, underbrush and leather. The bold concentrated palate offers black cherry, raspberry jam, clove and a hint of licorice. Firm fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2025.
This opens with aromas of ripe black-skinned fruit, resin, underbrush, leather, menthol and intense mint. The savory, refined palate delivers wild red cherry, crushed black raspberry, sage, clove, mint and mineral alongside velvety tannins. A licorice note signals the close. Drink through 2022.
This opens with aromas of ripe black currant, toast, exotic spice and a whiff of roasted pepper. On the concentrated palate, notes of coconut, licorice and black pepper accent a core of dried cherry. Tightly knit, close-grained tannins provide firm support.
This opens with aromas of ripe black plum, resin and nutmeg. The concentrated palate delivers mature blackberry, clove and chocolate framed in polished tannins. A licorice note signals the close. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of ripe black plum, scorched soil, toasted oak and roasted coffee bean. The dense ripe palate offers dried cherry, clove and espresso with chewy tannins. Drink through 2019 to catch the remaining fruit.
This opens with aromas of ripe black plum, tilled soil, blue flower, leather and game. The palate is still very tight but offers black cherry and bitter prune accented by notes of black pepper, clove, graphite and nutmeg. It's all supported by a backbone of assertive tannins. Drink after 2019.
This opens with aromas of ripe black plum, underbrush and a whiff of cassis. On the concentrated palate, notes of tobacco, mint and thyme accent a black cherry core while polished tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2024.
This opens with aromas of ripe orchard fruit and a whiff of citrus. The bright, juicy palate offers mature pear, peach and nectarine while a pleasantly bitter almond note fills in the finish.
This opens with aromas of ripe orchard fruit and pressed acacia flower. Made with organically grown grapes, the off-dry palate shows candied nectarine drop and mature yellow apple alongside bright acidity.
This opens with aromas of ripe plum, coffee, Mediterranean brush and a whiff of exotic spice. The palate offers dried cherry, anise, oak and black pepper alongside drying, woody tannins, yet it lacks fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of ripe, dark-skinned berry, underbrush, tobacco and a balsamic note. The palate delivers ripe black cherry, raspberry, clove and licorice alongside assertive tannins that need to unwind. Drink 2018–2024.
This opens with aromas of rose petal, lychee and pear. The intense slightly sweet palate delivers apricot jam, yellow peach and mango. It has nice length and finishes on an energizing mineral note.
This opens with aromas of scorched earth, black-skinned fruit and game. The aromas carry over to the simple palate alongside rounded tannins. Drink soon.
This opens with aromas of scorched earth, cooked black-skinned fruit and a funky whiff of barnyard. The aromas carry over to the palate along with notes of prune, overripe black fruit and green sensations that recall powdered sage. It's on the rustic side, while raspy tannins lend it an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of scorched earth, cured meat, underbrush and ripe blackberry. The evolved palate offers coffee, mocha, vanilla, raisin and blackberry extract alongside close-grained tannins. Enjoy sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of small woodland berries, cedar and tilled earth. The chewy palate offers fleshy black cherry, red currant, mocha and baking spice alongside assertive but fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2020.
This opens with aromas of sour cherry and red raspberry. In the mouth, there are pleasant flavors of tart cherry and red raspberry leading up to an astringent yet balanced finish.
This opens with aromas of Spanish broom and wild berry. On the fresh easygoing palate, zesty acidity supports juicy red cherry and black raspberry. A nectarine note gives it a tangy close.
This opens with aromas of spiced plum, oak, vanilla and leather. The smooth, concentrated palate offers ripe black cherry, juicy raspberry, mocha, clove, tobacco, black pepper and licorice alongside velvety tannins. Drink 2015–2023.
This opens with aromas of spirits, underbrush, menthol and dried tobacco leaf. The assertive palate displays dried sour cherry, raisin and licorice alongside astringent tannins. It lacks fruit richness while scorching alcohol dominates the finish.
This opens with aromas of spring flowers, tropical fruit and a whiff of peach. The vibrant palate delivers creamy Granny Smith apple, underripe pear and a citrus note alongside bright acidity and a creamy mousse.
This opens with aromas of steeped prune, chopped herb and a whiff of baking spice. The palate offers crunchy red cherry, mint, sage and ground aniseed alongside rugged tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish.
This opens with aromas of stewed plum, cherry marinated in spirits, cellar floor and a hint of soy sauce. The aromas carry over to the dense palate along with licorice and a hint of orange peel.
This opens with aromas of stewed plum, leafy underbrush, scorched earth and leather. The palate offers dried black cherry, white pepper, clove and tobacco set against bracing, tightly knit tannins. Give the tannins another year or two to unwind then drink up to capture the remaining fruit.
This opens with aromas of stewed prune, charred earth, orange peel and exotic spice. The palate is evolved, offering raisin, oak, espresso and an unusual note reminiscent of maple syrup but the fruit richness has already dried up.
This opens with aromas of sunbaked earth, mature berry, and a hint of grilled herb. The ripe palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice and a hint of coffee while fine-grained tannins give it a firm finish.
This opens with aromas of sunbaked earth, warm hay and crushed stone. The ripe round palate shows mature golden apple, ripe Bartlett pear and a hint of saline while a note of white almond marks the close.
This opens with aromas of sweet cherry liqueur, toasted espresso bean, bright forest fruit, cola and dried herb. It's fresh and light on the finish thanks to the fine and elegant tannins.
This opens with aromas of sweet marzipan and bright forest berry, with subtle tones of ginger, cola and chopped herb filling in the background. It is tight and firmly astringent; drink after 2018.
This opens with aromas of tilled soil, fleshy blueberry, game and a funky whiff of barnyard. The gamy note carries over to the ripe palate along with candied red cherry, clove and a note of sweet and sour sauce. It's a bit rustic but still has an earthy charm.
This opens with aromas of tilled soil, underbrush and prune. The dense palate delivers blackberry jam, vanilla and toasted oak alongside chewy tannins that leave a rather astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, coconut and raw red cherry that carry over to the palate along with notes of vanilla and clove. Bracing tannins give it a firm finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, coffee, chopped herb and a whiff of cellar floor. The straightforward palate offers dried cherry, licorice and a hint of orange zest alongside firm tannins.
This opens with aromas of toast, dried apricot and nut. The palate offers lemon zest, dried yellow apple and oak-driven spices, but most of the fruit has already dried up. It closes on a note of bitter almond.
This opens with aromas of toast, espresso, cooking spice and red berry. The palate offers up young sour cherry, vanilla, coconut and mocha alongside still raspy tannins that leave an astringent finish. Drink 2017–2022.
This opens with aromas of toast, French oak, chopped mint and coconut. The dense, approachable palate offers dried black cherry, raspberry jam, anise, coffee and a vanilla note alongside chewy tannins. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of toast, hazelnut and a whiff of adhesive bandage. The raw rather bitter palate shows unripe sour cherry, strawberry and a medicinal note alongside vivacious—almost harsh—bubbles and marked acidity.
This opens with aromas of toast, licorice and espresso that follow through to the palate along with a green note of powdered sage. It lacks fruit richness while clenched, abrasive tannins grip the finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak-driven spice and roasted coffee bean. The ripe palate doles out baked apple, candied citrus zest and crystallized ginger before bitter walnut closes the finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak and a whiff of coffee. The palate is still rather closed but eventually reveals raw cherry, anise, clove and ground pepper accompanied by bracing tannins and racy acidity. A note of dried sage closes the finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak and cherry. The tense palate offers raw red berry, roasted coffee bean, oak-driven spice and powdered sage, yet lacks fruit richness. Abrasive tannins give it a bracing finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak and roasted coffee bean that follow through to the tense palate of raw berry and powdered sage. Astringent tannins provide the framework.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak, grilled herb and a hint of iris. The palate offers coffee, marinated cherry, licorice and a saline note alongside close-grained tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak, menthol, resin, coffee bean and medicinal notes. The aromas carry over to the firm palate, along with thyme, clove, licorice and bracing tannins.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak, orchard fruit and a confectionary note. The full-bodied palate offers candied citrus, nectarine and vanilla alongside bright acidity. A note of white almond marks the finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, oak, stewed plum and a balsamic note. The concentrated palate offers vanilla, fleshy black fruit, menthol, mocha and sage. It's savory but already evolved and fast approaching its ideal drinking window. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with aromas of toast, plum and chocolate that are accented by whiffs of blue flower, tilled soil and leather. The palate offers black cherry, plum, nutmeg and clove alongside racy acidity and astringent wood tannins that dry out the finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, pressed violet, mint and woodland berry. On the palate, notes of dried Mediterranean herb and mocha accent a core of dried black cherry. Polished tannins lend it an easy-drinking quality so enjoy sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of toast, prune, scorched earth and chopped mint. The juicy palate offers dried black cherry, star anise and a hint of sweet baking spice alongside supple tannins. Straightforward and already approachable, it will offer enjoyable sipping in the near term. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of toast, sage, hazelnut and a hint of eucalyptus. The palate offers sour cherry, strawberry jelly, anise and orange peel alongside assertive tannins that leave a dusty finish.
This opens with aromas of toast, sawdust, licorice and a note of grilled celery. The firm palate offers tart cranberry, underripe red cherry, oak, vanilla and coffee alongside assertive, fine-grained tannins.
This opens with aromas of toast, spicy plum, espresso, leather and mocha. The one-dimensional palate offers dried black cherry, coffee bean and vanilla alongside drying tannins. Drink through 2019.
This opens with aromas of toast, vanilla and stewed plum. The rich, monolithic palate offers fleshy black cherry, vanilla, anisette, plum cake and a confectionary note alongside round tannins. Drink 2016–2022.
This opens with aromas of toast, weedy underbrush and tobacco. The palate offers stewed plum marinated in spirits, anisette and coffee but not much fruit richness. Bracing tannins give it an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of toasted nut, pressed white flower, straw, exotic fruit and honey. The firm palate has a smoky, mineral quality that accents citrus zest, pineapple, toasted hazelnut and sliced apple. It's balanced and fresh, with tangy acidity.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, black plum, graphite and grilled sage. The palate offers dried cherry, prune and dried tobacco leaf alongside extremely astringent tannins that completely dry out the mouth.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, citrus peel and a whiff of chopped dill. The aromas carry over to the round full-bodied palate along with yellow apple and a hint of ginger while a saline note lifts the close.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, coconut and vanilla. The palate also displays evident oak and oak spices, namely vanilla, mocha, coffee and a confectionary note that muffle the candied berry flavors in the background. Astringent tannins give it a short, drying finish.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, coffee and butterscotch. The ripe, evolved palate doles out dried black cherry, vanilla, espresso and chocolate alongside abrasive tannins that leave the mouth feeling rough.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, coffee, ripe berry, sage and a whiff of citrus zest. On the palate, white pepper and coconut back up the core of dried cherry alongside astringent tannins, but it lacks fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, coffee, underbrush and a hint of fig. The full-bodied palate shows oak, espresso, hazelnut, dark pepper and clove but not much fruit. Assertive tannins grip the finish.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, fennel, roasted coffee bean and a whiff of sage. The extracted palate offers ripe black plum, dark chocolate, espresso and grilled herb alongside tightly packed tannins. Drink sooner rather than later to capture the remaining fruit.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, roasted coffee bean and a whiff of sawdust. The bracing palate offers dried cherry, espresso and mocha alongside astringent tannins. Give the tannins another year or two to unwind then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, sawdust, espresso, licorice and blackberry jam. The extracted but rather lean palate offers dried black cherry, raisin, cocoa and a hint of ground pepper alongside fine-grained tannins that leave an astringent finish. Drink sooner rather than later before the fruit dries up completely.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, vanilla, mocha and a whiff of dark-skinned fruit. The tight palate shows dried plum, brown spice and fresh sage alongside tightly packed tannins that generate an astringent finish.
This opens with aromas of toasted oak, yellow apple skin and a confectionery note. The aromas carry over to the firm palate along with butterscotch and a mineral note but it doesn't have quite enough fruit richness to stand up to the dominant oak sensations.
This opens with aromas of tropical fruit, apricot and a whiff of honey. The informal palate displays mature yellow apple and bitter walnut.
This opens with aromas of tropical fruit, citrus and beeswax. The vibrant palate delivers grapefruit, lemon zest, rosemary and mint alongside lively acidity.
This opens with aromas of truffle, celery, underbrush, French oak and a whiff of pressed rose. The firm palate offers raw sour cherry, tart cranberry, licorice, powdered sage and oak-driven spice alongside bracing, close-grained tannins that leave a firm finish. Drink through 2026.
This opens with aromas of underbrush and black-skinned fruit while the straightforward palate delivers prune and cooking spice notes. Chewy tannins provide support. Drink soon.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, coconut, French oak, menthol and grilled mushroom. Showing the heat of the vintage, the robust, bitter palate evokes raisin, dried raw cherry, powdered sage and scorching alcohol. The fruit richness has dried up while astringent tannins clench the lean finish.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, leather, berry and a balsamic note. The forward palate offers dried cherry, white pepper, tobacco and the warmth of alcohol alongside firm tannins. Drink this sooner rather than later.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, leather, oak and crushed black cherry. The palate shows predominantly oak sensations including coffee, vanilla and espresso alongside notes of prune, but it lacks fruit richness. Astringent tannins leave the mouth feeling dried out.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, scorched soil, leather, iris and a balsamic note. The ripe, full-bodied palate offers juicy raspberry, licorice, mature black cherry and a hint of tobacco alongside firm, velvety tannins. Drink 2018–2027.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, tilled soil and ripe, black plum. On the palate, notes of ground pepper and baking spice accent the black cherry core. Firm, fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2018.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, blue flowers, oak and baked plum. The palate offers dried cherries, figs, nutmeg, tobacco and anisette alongside assertive but polished tannins. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, grilled porcini, espresso and ripe black berry. The palate offers dried black cherry, roasted coffee bean and coconut alongside drying, astringent tannins and soft acidity. Drink through 2015.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, toasted nut and grilled herb. The extremely simple, abrupt palate offers suggestions of sour cherry and orange zest alongside brisk acidity.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, tobacco, espresso and stewed prune. The full-bodied palate offers sour cherry, raisin, licorice and ground pepper alongside fine-grained but rather evolved tannins. It has seen fresher days so drink soon.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, violet, black cherry, plum and allspice. The palate is austere at this stage but it still offers sour cherry and crushed raspberry accented with notes of black pepper, espresso and sage alongside tightly packed tannins and brisk acidity. Drink after 2022.
This opens with aromas of underbrush, woodland berry, exotic spice, sage and a balsamic note. The palate delivers black cherry, spiced blueberry, licorice and white pepper framed in firm, close-grained tannins. Drink through 2020. A coffee note closes the finish.
This opens with aromas of violet, ripe berry, orange zest, toasted oak and a whiff of Mediterranean scrub. The structured palate offers mature cherry, white pepper, licorice, well-integrated oak spices, vanilla and grilled sage alongside firm, polished tannins. Showing the heat of the vintage, it's a bit warm on the midpalate but it still retains finesse.
This opens with aromas of wet leaves, forest floor, menthol and prune. Made from Alicante and a drop of Montepulciano, the palate delivers mocha, crushed herb, licorice and a fig note alongside evolved tannins. It's already tired, so drink soon.
This opens with aromas of white and yellow wild flower and yellow stone fruit. The bright palate doles out juicy yellow peach, nectarine and a hint of Mediterranean herb alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with aromas of white rose and lavender. The refreshing palate delivers white peach, juicy citrus and accents of sage and rosemary. It's balanced with bright acidity.
This opens with aromas of white spring flower, citrus and a hint of thyme. The juicy palate doles out yellow peach, tomato vine and a hazelnut note alongside bright acidity. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of white spring flowers, orchard fruit and a whiff of herbs. The vibrant palate doles out green apple, citrus zest and pear alongside tangy acidity and a refined, creamy mousse.
This opens with aromas of wild berry, orchard fruit and a whiff of spring blossom. On the refreshing palate, bright acidity frames tangerine zest and wild raspberry. It finishes crisp and clean.
This opens with aromas of wild cherry, violet and an earthy whiff of truffle. The aromas carry over to the palate along with a hint of clove, sage and a gamey note. Racy acidity and close-grained tannins leave a somewhat gravelly, drying finish.
This opens with aromas of wild herbs and field greens. This wine is full but flat in feel, with green, minty flavors that overshadow the minimal fruit. The finish is herbal and broad.
This opens with aromas of wood shop, toast, blue flower and spearmint. The lean palate offers toasted oak, dried blackberry and a whiff of clove alongside angular, astringent tannins that dry out the finish. It lacks the fruit richness to stand up to the oak.
This opens with aromas of woodland berry and spring blossom. Bright and refreshing, the palate doles out wild raspberry and juicy strawberry alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with aromas of woodland berry, crushed herb and a whiff of well-integrated oak. The firm palate delivers dried Morello cherry, baking spice and mocha alongside firm, fine-grained tannin. It closes on a note of star anise. Drink 2016–2021 to capture the fruit richness.
This opens with aromas of woodshop, sawdust, roasted coffee bean and a whiff of berry. The evolved palate delivers mocha, vanilla, toasted wood and dried black cherry alongside fleeting tannins.
This opens with aromas of yellow flower, hay and beeswax. The crisp straightforward palate delivers apple, white peach and lemon. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas of yellow flowers, tropical fruits and just a whiff of vanilla. The palate is round and juicy, with Golden Delicious apple and tropical fruit flavors. It has nice depth and length.
This opens with aromas recalling camphor, iris, cherry marinated in spirits and a whiff of coffee. The ripe, uncomplicated palate offers cherry pie, leather, star anise and white pepper alongside velvety tannins.
This opens with aromas recalling stewed plum, nutmeg, vanilla and a suggestion of blue flower. The ripe palate has a firm structure that supports dried black cherry, clove and aromatic herb while astringent tannins generate an abrupt, somewhat raspy finish. Give the tannins a few more years to mellow then drink.
This opens with aromas reminiscent of stewed plum, dark culinary spice, espresso and a balsamic note. The assertive palate is still tightly wound, offering dried black cherry, raisin, licorice and tobacco set against taut, close-grained tannins. Drink 2020–2028.
This opens with aromas suggesting aromatic herb, hay, yellow flower and light balsamic note. The bright, restrained palate offers lime, lemon peel and sage while a mineral note signals the close.
This opens with aromas suggesting blackberry, underbrush and a whiff of new leather. The concentrated, savory palate shows black cherry, tobacco and white pepper alongside lithe tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with aromas suggesting dark-skinned berry, ground pepper and a whiff of flint. The solid, chewy palate shows mature plum, espresso and vanilla alongside ripe, robust tannins. Drink through 2018.
This opens with aromas suggesting espresso, oak and coconut while the palate shows black raspberry, dried cherry, toast, clove and licorice. Give the tightly wound tannins a few years to unwind then enjoy.
This opens with aromas suggesting espresso, toast, oak, wild berry and exotic spice. The firm palate offers dried cherry, licorice, coffee bean and a touch of vanilla alongside assertive, close-grained tannins that grip the finish. Drink 2020–2030.
This opens with aromas suggesting fragrant purple flower, blackberry, damp soil and a whiff of used leather. The simple palate isn't as expressive as the nose, offering raw red berry and a hint of white pepper set against brisk acidity and drying, rather fleeting tannins.
This opens with aromas suggesting French oak, dark berry, violet and coconut. The medium-bodied palate offers wild cherry, cranberry and oak-driven spice alongside bright acidity and close-grained, mouth-puckering tannins.
This opens with aromas suggesting grilled herb and ripe orchard fruit. Bright and linear, the palate offers pear, peach and aromatic herb while a hint of citrus zest marks the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting hazelnut, toast and a whiff of oak. The palate offers charcuterie, cooking spice and grilled herb but there's not much fruit here.
This opens with aromas suggesting mature berry, baking spice, menthol, scorched earth and oak. The ripe palate offers stewed prune and bitter chocolate while assertive, tightly wound tannins grip the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting mature yellow apple, acacia flower and a whiff of lychee. The straightforward enjoyable palate offers ripe Bartlett pear, bitter almond and a hint of mineral. Enjoy soon.
This opens with aromas suggesting moist underbrush, tilled soil and a hint of dried herb. The bright, lithe palate offers black cherry and white pepper while silky tannins and vibrant acidity provide the easygoing framework. It finishes on a grilled herb note.
This opens with aromas suggesting new oak, new leather, coconut, dried herb and a whiff of underbrush. The assertive palate shows oak, licorice, a green note of powdered sage and the barest hint of dried sour cherry. Grainy wood-driven tannins lead to a raspy finish. Give the tannins a few more years to soften then drink before the remaining fruit dries up.
This opens with aromas suggesting pear, yellow stone fruit, Mediterranean herb and a whiff of citrus while the vibrant palate delivers crisp green apple, juicy lime, saline and energizing mineral. Racy acidity provides the backbone. Give this time to fully develop. Drink 2017 through 2024.
This opens with aromas suggesting pressed yellow flower, orchard fruit and an unusual whiff that recalls brimstone. The brisk palate offers yellow apple, citrus and a bitter medicinal note.
This opens with aromas suggesting red berry, blue flower, menthol and a whiff of oak. On the angular palate, raspy tannins and brisk acidity underscore raw cherry and orange peel.
This opens with aromas suggesting resin, overripe plum, raisin, menthol and a whiff of nail polish remover. The palate shows tart cranberry, star anise and a hint of dark baking spice alongside assertive, close-grained tannins leave an astringent finish. You'll also notice the slight warmth of alcohol on the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting spearmint, blackcurrant jam, toasted oak and roasted coffee bean. The aromas follow through to the evolved palate along with raisin and anise while raspy tannins clench the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting toast, coconut and roasted coffee bean. The palate is rather raw, offering sour cherry and espresso alongside raspy tannins that leave a mouth-drying finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting toast, dark-skinned berry, smoke and a balsamic note. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, sage and a hint of clove alongside assertive tannins. Drink after 2020.
This opens with aromas suggesting toast, menthol, mature berry, coffee and a balsamic note. On the full-bodied palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon and powdered sage accent dried black cherry while firm, close-grained tannins provide the framework.
This opens with aromas suggesting toast, menthol, steeped cherry and a whiff of iris. The palate is rather shy, showing oak, licorice and clove but not much fruit richness. Bracing tannins clench the finish. Give the tannins a few years to unwind then drink up.
This opens with aromas suggesting toasted almond, Spanish broom and grapefruit. The bright, linear palate shows lemon zest, chopped herb and mineral alongside tangy acidity.
This opens with aromas suggesting toasted nut, oak and bread crust. The soft palate offers mature yellow apple skin, toast, citrus zest and a confectionary note alongside a creamy perlage. Bitter almond marks the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting underbrush, chopped sage, wild berry and a whiff of leather. On the full-bodied palate, notes of cinnamon and licorice add depth to dark cherry and raspberry compote while a tannic backbone lends structure. Drink 2021–2028.
This opens with aromas suggesting underbrush, crushed herb and blue flower. The palate is tightly wound and rather closed, showing hints of orange zest and raw cranberry. Racy acidity and austere tannins clench the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting underbrush, scorched earth, chopped herb and dried berry. The straightforward palate delivers concentrated black cherry, black currant and dark spice set against rounded tannins. A coffee note signals the close.
This opens with aromas suggesting underbrush, tobacco and a whiff of cooking spice. The dense, full-bodied palate offers dark berry, licorice, vanilla and a hint of oak alongside bracing tannins. A hint of sage closes the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting weedy forest floor, stewed prune, leather and grilled porcini mushroom. The palate is on the raw side, offering tart sour cherry and a hint of dark cooking spice alongside raspy, grainy tannins that dry out the finish.
This opens with aromas suggesting white flower, orchard fruit and bread crust. The straightforward palate delivers Golden Delicious apple and a hint of peach alongside crisp acidity.
This opens with aromas that recall acacia flower, chamomile and a whiff of beeswax. The zesty palate offers grapefruit, green apple and hint of white almond alongside racy acidity.
This opens with aromas that recall cellar floor, underbrush, toast and espresso. The palate is primary, offering raspberry compote, licorice and grilled sage alongside youthfully austere tannins that clench the finish. Give the tannins a few years to unwind then drink.
This opens with aromas that recall leafy underbrush, grilled porcini and mature dark-skinned fruit. The taut palate offers dried black cherry, coffee, sage and anise alongside tightly wound tannins that give it a firm finish.
This opens with aromas that recall mature plum, resin and nail polish. The palate offers fleshy blackberry, nutmeg, anise and vanilla alongside fine-grained tannins. A subtle warmth of alcohol marks the close.
This opens with aromas that recall moist underbrush, grilled sage, menthol and a whiff of cellar floor. The brisk, diluted palate offers raw red cherry, oak and a hint of star anise alongside stinging acidity and astringent tannins that leave a raspy finish. It lacks fruit richness.
This opens with aromas that recall nail polish remover, dark spice and toast. The palate offers fleshy black cherry, vanilla and a hint of coffee alongside bracing tannins. It finishes on an astringent note.
This opens with aromas that recall resin, nail polish, steeped prune and nutmeg. The sturdy but rather fleeting palate offers baked dark fruit, espresso, clove and a hint of coconut alongside raspy tannins.
This opens with aromas that recall scorched earth, forest floor, black-skinned berry and a whiff of dark cooking spice while the ripe, juicy palate doles out wild cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and a licorice note. Firm, mature tannins provide the framework. Drink 2017–2022.
This opens with aromas that recall spring flower, citrus and a whiff of honeydew melon. The rather lean, linear palate shows grapefruit and flint alongside racy acidity. A bitter almond note signals the finish.
This opens with aromas that recall tilled soil, game, leather and dark red berry that carry over to the palate along with a truffle note. It's a tad bit rustic, but has an earthy charm.
This opens with aromas that recall toast, French oak, coffee bean and tilled soil. The palate is straightforward and a bit lean, offering notes of dried black cherry, vanilla and mocha accompanied by fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2019.
This opens with aromas that recall tropical fruit, hay and a whiff of chopped mint. The palate has weight and an almost oily texture but it lacks fruit richness, suggesting unripe pear, lemon zest and flint alongside brisk acidity.
This opens with aromas that recall underbrush, sage, dried tobacco leaf and cherries marinated in spirits. The lean, tannic palate offers coffee and grilled herb but not much fruit richness.
This opens with aromas that recall underbrush, tilled soil, crushed stone, dried herb and menthol. The big, powerful palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, clove, mineral and the warmth of evident alcohol. Velvety tannins provide the framework.
This opens with aromas that recall walnut and orchard fruit. The lively, simple palate offers Bartlett pear, citrus zest and a hint of hazelnut alongside bright acidity.
This opens with aromas that recall weedy underbrush, crushed dill, camphor, saline, hay and a hint of orange rind. The evolved palate offers roasted coffee bean, licorice and a confectionary note but it lacks fruit richness. Astringent but fleeting tannins dry out the finish.
This opens with aromas that recall weedy underbrush, sawdust, toast and oak. The firm palate offers star anise, cured meat and a hint of oregano but not much fruit richness. Astringent tannins give it a raspy finish.
This opens with aromas that recall white almond, walnut and graphite. Made with 50% Friulano, 40% Chardonnay and 10% Sauvignon, the svelte palate offers yellow apple skin, grapefruit, almond and mineral. A hint of lemon drop backs up the finish.
This opens with aromas that recall white flower, orchard fruit and a light medicinal note. The lean, rather diluted palate offers apple skin, mineral and a hint of bitter almond alongside brisk acidity.
This opens with aromas that recall wood shop and stewed prune. Oak and oak-driven spice dominate the palate and keep the tart cranberry note in the background. It lacks the fruit richness necessary to stand up to the invasive oak while astringent tannins leave a rough and mouth-drying finish.
This opens with aromas that suggest mature plum, black currant, vanilla and menthol. The polished palate delivers dried black cherry, spiced blackberry, cinnamon and tobacco framed in fine-grained tannins that give the finish some grip. A cedar note signals the close. Drink through 2020.
This opens with aromas that suggest orchard fruit and citrus. The zesty, straightforward palate offers white peach, nectarine and green apple alongside bright acidity.
This opens with attractive aromas of pressed rose, woodland berry, dried herb and a whiff of baking spice. The robust palate shows sour, almost unripe cherry, clove, mocha and anisette. The warmth of evident alcohol closes the finish.
This opens with attractive aromas of yellow spring flowers and an assortment of white tree fruits. The vibrant palate offers lemon, tangerine, apple and pineapple flavors alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with attractive earthy aromas of forest floor, cola, vanilla bean and toasted spice, grounded in a core of red currant, cherry and raspberry fruit. The medium-weight mouthfeel is lush and seductive, with fine yet structured tannins that result in a satiny texture. Pure fruit flavors dominate the palate, but the finish is layered with notes of white pepper, tea leaf and woody spice. Approachable now, but will age well through 2020.
This opens with attractive floral aromas of Spanish broom, acacia and chamomile while the bright palate offers white peach, green apple and citrus. Brisk acidity gives it a crisp, clean finish while a note of white almond signals the close. Small persistent bubbles add finesse.
This opens with attractive floral sensations reminiscent of white spring flowers. Pear, apple and pineapple flavors are all present, along with a bare hint of mineral. There's no complexity here but it's fresh and lively.
This opens with balsamic aromas of camphor, new leather, menthol and exotic spice. The tightly wound palate offers Morello cherry, cranberry, white pepper and grilled sage while assertive, close-grained tannins provide firm support.
This opens with balsamic aromas, leather, ripe raspberry, iris and a heady whiff of pressed powder while the succulent, delicious palate delivers ripe black raspberry, cake spice and aromatic herb. Firm, polished tannins provide structure and envelope the palate. Drink 2018–2025.
This opens with balsamic, briary aromas that include herb, olive and greenness. It wine feels big, full and generally well balanced, with roasted flavors of earth and herbal berry that reflect the bouquet. Tobacco, coffee and leather components drive the finish.
This opens with banana, exotic fruit and honeysuckle aromas while the fruity palate offers white peach, green apple and candied tangerine flavors. A hint of white almond marks the close.
This opens with barrel-based aromas of resin and spice. It's round, creamy and Burgundian on the palate, with flavors of spiced apple, walnut and a hint of oxidation. Things flatten on the finish, which tastes yeasty and like toffee.
This opens with beautiful dark fruit that's thick and voluptuous, tasting of black cherry and cassis, with excellent depth and intensity. It's sleek and supple, yet at the same time deep and polished, with impressive minerality and a note of granite-like rock.
This opens with big aromas of black fruit compote, molasses and maple. It feels tannic and grabby, with notes of black cherry, dark plum and vanilla controlling the flavor profile. It finishes big, tight and chalky, due to tannic residue. Powerful and composed, drink now–2016.
This opens with black-skinned berry, clove and cooking spice aromas. The straightforward palate shows ripe black cherry, black plum and white pepper notes alongside smooth tannins. Drink soon.
This opens with black-skinned berry, dried violet and star anise aromas. The savory, easy-drinking palate delivers blackberry, black pepper and clove flavors set against bright acidity and supple tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with black-skinned berry, tobacco and underbrush aromas. The firm palate shows black plum, clove and white pepper flavors, with assertive tannins that leave a drying finish.
This opens with black plum, mocha and baking spice aromas. On the ripe, forward palate, tobacco and vanilla notes accent a core of prune-like fruit, while chewy tannins provide backbone. Drink through 2021.
This opens with black plum, truffle and coffee aromas. The palate feels evolved, its flavors veering to prune, anise and tobacco. The tannins are close-grained but not very persistent. Drink through 2021.
This opens with black plum, underbrush and new leather aromas. The palate is concentrated, its mint- and tobacco-laced black cherry core underpinned by fine-grained tannins. Drink now–2023.
This opens with black, inky intensity and generous aromas of ripe fruit, raspberry, plum, moist earth and pipe tobacco. The mouthfeel is earthy and gritty with astringent tannins on the finish. Hold this for 10–15 years.
This opens with blue flower, herb and dark-skinned berry aromas. The palate is lean, offering sour cherry fruit and a hint of star anise, set against tightly wound, austere tannins that leave a drying finish.
This opens with blue flower, new leather, crushed mint and underbrush aromas. On the taut, racy palate, white pepper and tobacco notes underscore sour cherry and cranberry fruit alongside austere, fine-grained tannins.
This opens with bold aromas of Golden Delicious apple, vanilla, yellow rose, pear and white almond. The mouthfeel is oily and dense, with a touch of sweet spice.
This opens with bold but faintly chemical berry aromas. Its chunky palate features hard tannins, tasting of roasted berries, oak and cured meat. On the finish, it feels rubbery and a touch flat.
This opens with bold intensity and delicate background tones of dried cassis, cola, licorice and cedar. It's a dry but exceedingly delicate wine with a fine texture and polished tannins.
This opens with bright aromas of cherry, blueberry, leather, tobacco and clove. The palate shows nice harmony and density that is enhanced by a zesty, spicy finish.
This opens with bright aromas of citrus and apple. The palate offers lemon and pear flavors, with a hint of vanilla. Pair this racy wine with light first courses and delicately seasoned fish dishes.
This opens with bright aromas of raspberry and toasted almond. There's a nicely etched quality that gives it a firm, solid mouthfeel.
This opens with bright aromas of wild berry, white cherry, spice, cola and dried medicinal herb. It's a streamlined, elegant wine, with fresh acidity and a bitter almond finish.
This opens with bright fruit intensity, bearing flavors of red apple skin, chocolate, dark cherry and coffee bean. It shows plush and rich concentration, with a firm, fresh finish.
This opens with bright fruit notes of blueberry and wild cherry, followed by savory touches of exotic spice and green tea. It offers heft and endurance without the chewy thickness found in some Amarone.
This opens with camphor and coconut aromas and a whiff of exotic spice. The assertive palate shows dried cherry and clove flavors alongside grainy, drying tannins.
This opens with camphor, medicinal herb and cellar floor aromas. The lean, racy palate shows oak-driven spice and powdered sage flavors framed by raspy tannins.
This opens with characteristic aromas of wild berry, wet earth, white truffle and roasted coffee bean. It feels rich and concentrated in the mouth, but never heavy or sticky.
This opens with cherry and bitter almond aromas, offering a lean mouthfeel that simple and clean. It's the perfect partner to pepperoni pizza.
This opens with cherry and candied blueberry aromas. It presents a thick, succulent quality that should pair well with braised beef or grilled lamb.
This opens with cherry cordial, cranberry, herb and barrel spice aromas that seem a bit off. The palate is marked by sweet cherry and cranberry flavors that trail off quickly on the finish.
This opens with classic Nebbiolo aromas of ripe red berry, violet, leather, dark spice and a balsamic note. The chewy palate doles out fleshy Marasca cherry, licorice clove and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside robust but smooth tannins. Drink from 2018 through 2023.
This opens with classic Oregon Pinot scents of rose petal and cherry candy. In the mouth the toasty barrel flavors wrap around the juicy fruits —raspberry, cherry and more—with streaks of butterscotch creeping into the succulent finish. It's pure pleasure.
This opens with classic Sangiovese aromas of blue flower, ripe berry, tilled earth and a whiff of leather. The palate delivers black cherry, savory herb, espresso and a hint of tobacco alongside bracing tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
This opens with classically Chilean aromas of bell pepper, olive and berry. It feels firm and tightly wound, with plum and herb flavors. Despite its herbal quality and its peppery, briary finish, the wine nevertheless manages not to taste green.
This opens with cool, coastal aromas of passion fruit, minerality, ocean spray and tarragon. It's just round enough to avoid being shearing, with cutting acidity and true varietal flavors of green herbs, lettuce and lime. The finish maintains those flavors while cleansing the palate.
This opens with cranberry and sweet raspberry notes, backed by almond skin and grapefruit touches. It offers a fresh, simple mouthfeel, with creaminess and restrained richness.
This opens with creamy, soapy foam backed by delicate notes of citrus, pear and Golden Delicious apple. Easy drinking, this should pair with lightly fried appetizers.
This opens with crisp and attractive spice and almond flavors. They go with the acidity, lemon and apple notes to give a balanced, complex wine. Drink from mid-2018.
This opens with dark aromas of leather, tobacco, cured meat, plum and prune. It shows soft tannins and loads of dark fruit on the finish.
This opens with dark, inky concentration and savory aromas of leather, black fruit, tobacco and black cherry. The wine feels smooth and rich on the palate.
This opens with dark, inky concentration and savory aromas of leather, spice, tobacco and black fruit. An interesting touch of bitterness appears on the finish.
This opens with deep, dense dark-fruit goodness. It's a massive wine that bursts with blackberry, black cherry and cassis. After that opening explosion of ripe fruit, it seems to float through the mouth, like riding in a big-finned Cadillac from the 1950s. Consume this one within 2–5 years.
This opens with delicate aromas of acacia flower, ripe stone fruit and toasted nut that carry over to the straightforward palate along with yellow apple. It has the wine's signature bitter almond on the finish.
This opens with delicate aromas of baking spice and black-skinned fruit. The simple palate offers black cherry jam, vanilla and white pepper hints while smooth tannins lend supple support. Drink through 2019.
This opens with delicate aromas of black-skinned berry and scorched soil. The simple palate shows prune, clove and a whiff of baking spice alongside round tannins. Drink soon.
This opens with delicate aromas of black-skinned berry, dark spice and cinnamon. The straightforward palate offers juicy black cherry, clove and a hint of white pepper alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with delicate aromas of pressed chamomile, Spanish Broom and toasted nut. The rich, rather evolved palate offers pineapple, candied citrus zest, dried herb and a hint of papaya freshened by rather fresh acidity.
This opens with delicate aromas of red-skinned berry and baking spice. Straightforward and tangy, the palate offers raspberry, citrus zest and clove alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with delicate aromas of soapy lavender flower, pressed rose petal, sweet marzipan and white pepper. The tannins seem evolved and silky, and there's a touch of sweet fruit on the finish.
This opens with delicate aromas of white peach, vanilla and toasted oak that carry over to the palate along with candied lemon drop and apple. Zesty acidity gives it a tangy finish.
This opens with delicate aromas of yellow apple, nut and a faint whiff of pressed yellow flower. The shy, slender palate is on the lean side, showing notes of citrus, mineral and the barest hint of almond accompanied by bright acidity.
This opens with delicate aromas reminiscent of white spring flower and a whiff of orchard fruit. On the palate, fresh acidity underscores creamy Bartlett pear and nectarine zest that lead to a clean, bright finish.
This opens with delicate aromas suggesting mocha, black-skinned berry and vanilla. The dense palate delivers black currant jam, clove and tobacco alongside taut tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with delicate aromas that recall orchard fruit and yellow wild flower. The juicy, easygoing palate shows ripe pear, white peach and citrus alongside bright acidity.
This opens with delicate aromas that recall pear, yellow stone fruit and a whiff of almond. The juicy palate presents yellow peach, citrus and a hint of hazelnut alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with delicate baking spice and black-skinned fruit scents that carry over to the simple palate together with a nutty note. It's easy-drinking, with soft tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with delicate floral and citrus aromas, while the palate offers lemon drop and juicy yellow-apple flavors alongside crisp acidity. Pair this with linguine topped with clam sauce. Terroir Society, Potomac Selections.
This opens with delicate floral aromas of Spanish broom and chamomile. Made with native grape Pignoletto, the palate offers yellow apple, pineapple and lemon drop accompanied by a persistent perlage.
This opens with delicate orchard fruit, citrus zest and white spring flower scents. On the bright palate, a bitter almond note accents ripe pear and nectarine flavors that are tangy with acidity.
This opens with delicate scents of field flower and white stone fruit. On the creamy off-dry palate, a soft mousse backs up sweet white peach, green apple and a candied citrus note while bright acidity lends freshness.
This opens with delicate scents of pear and pressed yellow flower. The tangy palate shows lemon zest, nectarine and a hint of Mediterranean herb while a saline note provides backup.
This opens with delicate scents of red berry and fragrant blue flower. The soft, easygoing palate offers juicy wild cherry and a hint of baking spice alongside fresh acidity and round tannins. It's simple but well made.
This opens with delicate scents of violet and wild berry. The slender, nervous palate offers suggestions of sour cherry, clove and powdered sage set against bracing acidity. Close-grained tannins leave a drying, rather astringent finish.
This opens with delicate scents of white wild flower, herb and a whiff of smoke. The bright, straightforward palate offers suggestions of tropical fruit, mineral and a note of toasted almond alongside bright acidity. It's refreshing but rather lean.
This opens with dense, earthy aromas of tobacco, coffee grinds and marzipan candy along with blackberry and raisin. The palate feels wide and jammy, with solid tannins that don't bite. A mix of herbal berry, foresty notes and leather comprise the flavor profile, while the finish is gritty, tannic, salty and hard. Give this muscular Malbec plenty of air before drinking.
This opens with dense, rich aromas of pressed honeysuckle, beeswax, baked apple, orange preserves and muddled peaches. The medium-weight palate offers more of the same, with ample acidity to lift the fruity richness and slight viscosity. Hints of candied nuts and orange peel unfold on the finish.
This opens with dry underbrush, sun-baked soil and French oak aromas. The palate is equally brooding, its dried black cherry and blackberry fruit brushed with licorice and espresso flavors. Assertive, close-grained tannins leave a firm finish. Drink 2020–2027.
This opens with dry, traditional Tempranillo aromas of cherry, plum, tobacco and even some asphalt and woodsmoke. The palate is smooth and loamy, with mild tomatoey acidity keeping things fresh. Wiry cherry, plum and baked flavors finish with mocha and stewed notes. Drink now.
This opens with dusty dried-apple aromas. High acidity preserves its composure even though the fruit is marginal and vacillates between flavors of apple and lemony citrus.
This opens with dusty, etched aromas of brimstone and crushed granite. Wait a few minutes more for the plum and dark currant notes to surface. The firm, polished tannins could use a few more years of bottle aging.
This opens with earthy aromas of brimstone, scorched soil, hay, orchard fruit and dried herb. The palate offers pink grapefruit, white stone fruit, sage and a marked saline note that creates a briny mineral finish.
This opens with earthy aromas of forest floor, tilled soil, dark berry and a whiff of baking spices. Made with very old vines, the concentrated palate doles out black cherry, blackberry, clove and anise alongside fresh acidity.
This opens with earthy aromas of game, underbrush and leather. The ripe palate offers dried cherry, fleshy raspberry, grilled sage, licorice and baking spice alongside bracing tannins.
This opens with earthy aromas of leather, overripe black fruit, meat juice and a whiff of barnyard. The palate delivers mature plum, black cherry, loam and game alongside astringent tannins.
This opens with earthy aromas of mature plum, underbrush, scorched soil and a funky whiff of game. On the round straightforward palate, a note of ground pepper adds depth to a core of dried black cherry.
This opens with earthy aromas of ripe dark fruit, scorched earth, game and truffle. The concentrated palate doles out juicy black cherry, crushed raspberry, sweet cake spice, tobacco and herb accompanied by firm, fine-grained tannins and a vein of fresh acidity.
This opens with earthy aromas of scorched earth, overripe plum and a whiff of game. The straightforward palate offers juicy wild cherry, raspberry jam, coffee and vanilla alongside zesty acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2017.
This opens with earthy aromas of scorched earth, ripe berry, leather and a funky whiff of game. The full-bodied palate offers mature black cherry, black raspberry, truffle, grilled sage, ground pepper and a hint of tobacco alongside youthfully assertive, solid tannins. Drink after 2018.
This opens with earthy aromas of scorched soil, raisin, game and a hint of baking spice. The palate is fresher, showing dried black cherry, vanilla, mocha and Mediterranean herb alongside youthfully bracing tannins.
This opens with earthy aromas of scorched soil, underbrush and a funky whiff of game while the palate offers candied cherry, white pepper and a hint of tobacco alongside firm tannins. It closes on an aniseed note.
This opens with earthy aromas of scorched topsoil, game, truffle and a whiff of cured meat. The palate offers succulent red berry, cake spice, grilled herb and tobacco alongside a backbone of bracing tannins and brisk acidity.
This opens with earthy aromas of tilled earth and a hint of farmyard that eventually blow off to reveal dark, ripe fruit scents. The palate is more polished, showing ripe black-cherry, espresso  and cinnamon flavors framed by chewy tannins.
This opens with earthy aromas of tilled soil, game, violet, ripe dark-skinned fruit and mint. The juicy, delicious palate offers fleshy black cherry, cinnamon, chopped herb and a hint of anise alongside chewy tannins. It's already approachable but will offer fine drinking over the next several years.
This opens with earthy aromas of tilled soil, leather, game, dark berry and graphite. The firm palate offers up juicy blackberry, dried black cherry, notes of grilled porcini, peppercorn, thyme and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. It closes on a licorice note. Hold for complexity. Drink 2016–2022.
This opens with earthy aromas of tilled soil, underbrush, wet leaves, barnyard and mature black fruit. The muddled palate shows both sweet and bitter sensations of overripe blackberry, tart candied cherry, orange peel, vanilla, espresso and unsweetened cocoa, as well as astringent wood tannins. Panebianco, Vinity.
This opens with earthy aromas of tilled wet soil and black fruit. The juicy palate offers ripe blackberry and cherry, along with hints of white pepper and spice. There's no complexity here but this hearty food-friendly red is perfect for everyday fare—thanks to its delicious fruit and freshness.
This opens with earthy aromas of turned soil, under brush and black cherry. The palate delivers dense black-fruit and almond notes, but it's already somewhat evolved so drink soon.
This opens with earthy aromas of underbrush, game, scorched earth, sweat and ripe dark fruit. The chewy palate delivers juicy wild cherry, star anise and grilled herb framed in solid tannins.
This opens with earthy aromas of underbrush, truffle, leather, scorched earth and a whiff of baked plum. The dense, rather evolved palate shows dried black cherry, clove, star anise and the warmth of alcohol while bracing tannins grip the finish. Drink through 2019.
This opens with earthy aromas of wild berry, truffle, underbrush, leather and tilled soil. The savory palate offers juicy cherry, crushed raspberry and savory herb alongside polished tannins. It's not loaded with complexity but it's already smooth and delicious. Enjoy 2016–2022.
This opens with earthy aromas that recall black-skinned fruit, leather, scorched earth and a whiff of game. The firm, lean palate offers dried sour cherry, tobacco, powdered sage and clove alongside assertive, fine-grained tannins. It's still austere so give it a few years to soften then drink up before the remaining fruit richness vanishes.
This opens with earthy aromas that recall leafy underbrush, leather, stewed prune, toasted hazelnut and dark baking spice aromas. The firm, tightly wound palate shows dried black cherry, clove and bracing tannins that leave a somewhat raspy finish. Give the tannins a few more years to unwind then drink.
This opens with earthy aromas that recall mature berry, game, baked soil, menthol and leather. The bracing palate offers dark berry, toast, sage, dark cooking spices and a balsamic note alongside youthfully assertive tannins. Drink after 2019.
This opens with earthy aromas that recall overripe berry, underbrush, game and just a whiff of barnyard. The palate offers crunchy red cherry, white pepper and truffle against a backdrop of youthfully assertive tannins. Give this time to unwind. Drink 2018–2025.
This opens with earthy aromas that recall woodland berry, leather and a scorched earth. The medium-bodied palate offers ripe red cherry, licorice and a hint of toasted nut alongside firm tannins.
This opens with earthy forest floor, leather and oak-derived vanilla notes. The brawny, monolithic palate doles out ripe Morello cherry, raspberry jam and licorice flavors, with a warming layer of alcohol. Solid tannins keep it feeling firm. Drink 2019–2025.
This opens with earthy scents of scorched soil, underbrush and a hint of game. Made with 90% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and Mammolo, the chewy palate offers dried black cherry, ripe plum and ground pepper alongside tightly woven tannins. Drink 2016–2019.
This opens with earthy underbrush, violet and red berry aromas. The palate is bright, with tart red cherry and ripe raspberry accented by notes of pepper and baking spice. It's vibrant and calls out for hearty pastas or pecorino cheese.
This opens with earthy, almost funky aromas of game, leather, blue flower and tilled soil. The palate offers red cherry, black raspberry and baking spices balanced by brisk acidity and firm tannins. Drink now through 2016.
This opens with earthy, almost funky aromas that recall new leather, tilled soil, truffle and a whiff of game. The palate is still youthfully austere, offering dried black cherry, baking spice and chopped herb alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2020–2028.
This opens with earthy, smoky aromas of coffee grinds and blackberry along with toasted marshmallow. The palate is thick and mouthfilling, with baked berry, spice and chocolate flavors. The finish is minty and herbal, with moderate heat and burn.
This opens with earthy—almost funky—aromas of game, truffle, leather, a hint of overripe dark-skinned fruit and a balsamic note. The palate offers black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and chopped herb alongside ripe tannins. An anise note closes the finish.
This opens with elegant and finely tuned aromas of wild berry, dried ginger, smoked bacon and dried herb. It is still toasty and young at this point and will benefit from another 5–10 years of cellar aging. The tannins are smooth and polished.
This opens with enticing aromas of chamomile flower, white peach and a whiff of Alpine herb. The elegant palate offers McIntosh apple, candied lemon and a vein of energizing mineral. Fresh acidity lends balance.
This opens with enticing aromas of jasmine, stone fruit, canteloupe and mineral. The juicy fruit palate offers peach and melon accented with nectarine, lemon zest and candied ginger notes.
This opens with enticing aromas of toasted hazelnut, Key lime and white peach. The firm, controlled palate is concentrated and long, offering vivid, precise fruit and a tasty hint of skin phenolics.
This opens with enticing scents of dark berry, kitchen spice, blue flower and toast. The firmly structured palate delivers red berry, licorice, chopped herb and well-integrated oak alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017–2022.
This opens with enticing scents of rose, iris and perfumed berry. The firmly structured palate offers ripe black cherry, white pepper, licorice and clove alongside drying, austere tannins that leave a rather grainy finish.
This opens with enticing scents of white spring flower and white orchard fruit. On the bright palate, a hint of bitter almond underscores green apple and nectarine while bright acidity and a saline note provide a mouthwatering finish.
This opens with enticing scents of woodland berry, iris, wild rose and a balsamic note. The palate is still is still rather closed but offers raw red berry, chopped sage and star anise alongside bracing tannins and brisk acidity. Give this time to unwind and fully open. Drink after 2019.
This opens with eucalyptus, dark spice and menthol aromas. The palate offers vanilla, cranberry white pepper and toast flavors framed by firm acidity and tight, grainy tannins.
This opens with evident oak aromas of toasted wood, espresso and coffee bean followed by underpinnings of black fruit and pepper. The palate shows ripe black fruit, espresso and oak. Although it has nice depth, the finish is cut short by by drying wood tannins.
This opens with exotic aromas of charcuterie along with blue fruits. The palate is heavy and blocky in feel, with grabbing tannins. Roasted berry, spice and herbal notes finish oaky and toasty.
This opens with faint honeysuckle and white stone fruit aromas. The informal, lively palate offers green apple, peach and citrus hints, alongside bright acidity.
This opens with floral and spice aromas of violet, berry and exotic spices. The palate is austere: restrained fruit and oak sensations accompany bitter and drying wood tannins.
This opens with floral aromas of jasmine, wisteria and a whiff of exotic fruit. The off-dry palate doles out white peach, pineapple, Granny Smith apple and candied citrus zest, accompanied by a frothy mousse and bright acidity.
This opens with floral aromas of violet and rose bud, followed by light berry and plum notes. The palate tastes easy and fresh.
This opens with floral aromas of violet, iris and a whiff of sunbaked earth. The straightforward palate offers wild black cherry and a hint of dark spice alongside polished tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
This opens with floral aromas that recall white spring flowers while the palate offers peach, apple and citrus notes, along with hints of mineral and sea salt. It's bright and crisp on the close.
This opens with fragrances of perfumed berry and dried rose. The focused palate delivers crushed sour cherry, licorice, toast, clove and vanilla alongside fine-grained tannins. The slight warmth of alcohol on the finish is nicely supported by the ripe fruit flavors.
This opens with fragrant aromas of yellow rose, apricot, butterscotch and spicy vanilla. It has edium density, with a fresh mouthfeel lending this a unique personality.
This opens with fragrant blue flower, underbrush and cake spice scents. The palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry fruit with savory accents that recall ground pepper and star anise. It's all bound by refined tannins and finishes on a lingering almond note. Enjoy soon.
This opens with French oak and toasted hazelnut aromas. The lean, assertive palate offers roasted coffee bean and licorice flavors alongside grainy tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This opens with French oak, exotic spice, coconut and toast aromas. They follow through to the palate, which offers coffee bean and sage notes in place of fruit richness. Grainy tannins leave a raspy finish.
This opens with French oak, vanilla, toast and coconut aromas. The oak-derived qualities carry over to palate, along with sour cherry, raspberry compote and espresso flavors while tight, close-grained tannins grip the finish.
This opens with fruity aromas of plum and black berry, alongside whiffs of tilled earth and spice. It's still a bit closed but the palate reveals black cherry, raisin and clove supported by a tannic backbone. Drink 2015–2021.
This opens with funky aromas of barnyard, overripe black fruit, resin and varnish. The palate is on the rustic side, showing steeped prune, nutmeg, clove and vanilla alongside evolved, raspy tannins that leave a mouth-drying finish.
This opens with funky aromas of barnyard, scorched earth and a whiff of decaying flower. The short, bitter palate is already evolved, offering raisin, game and a hint of cured meat alongside worn, fleeting tannins.
This opens with funky aromas of game, cured meat and wet animal fur. Rustic and lean, the astringent palate offers a suggestion of powdered sage and a balsamic note but lacks fruit.
This opens with funky aromas of game, scorched soil, roasted herb and a whiff of barnyard. The palate is on the raw side, showing sour cherry and a sprinkling of white pepper framed in raspy tannins.
This opens with funky aromas of leather, game, overripe plum and a whiff of barnyard. The aromas all carry over to the rustic palate along with dried black cherry while raspy, fleeting tannins give it an abrupt, astringent finish.
This opens with funky aromas of stewed prune, sawdust, sage and a hint of barnyard that carry through to the palate. Astringent tannins give it a gritty, drying finish.
This opens with funky aromas that suggest farmyard, stewed fruit and worn leather. The dense palate is already evolved, showing raisin, fig, game and walnut that lead to a short, bitter finish.
This opens with funky but not unpleasant aromas that soon burn off to reveal earthy notes and mature black fruit. The palate shows a very ripe—almost overripe—blackberry flavor, with mushroom and tobacco leaf accents. While the ripe fruit still has immediate appeal, this is getting tired, so drink soon.
This opens with funky, earthy notes of blueberry, juniper and animal hide. The palate is chunky and jammy, which is welcome given 2011's cold conditions. Flavors of herbal blackberry, baked plum and spice finish with a note of green and heat as well as with acidic freshness.
This opens with generous aromatic fullness and brightness, with notes of black cherry, spice, leather and tobacco. The oak notes are still obvious so give this wine five more years of cellar aging.
This opens with grassy, green aromas of candied raspberry. A chunky palate delivers candied, caramelized, slightly weedy red-fruit flavors. Not a lot besides acidity and heat is driving the finish.
This opens with grassy, oxidized aromas of papaya and hay. The mouth is foamy and crude, with herbal, stalky flavors of salty, briny melon and nectarine. Not that it matters much, but the blend is Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir.
This opens with green notes of kiwi, cut grass and citrus and finishes with lively acidity and zest. It's a fresh, easy wine that shows balance and cheerful informality.
This opens with hard-capped aromas of crusty mineral and reedy berry. The flavors are gamy and roasted, with brandied plum and cherry accents. The finish is bright in feel and runs long with an herbal raspberry flavor.
This opens with hard, charred, rubbery aromas. The palate feels tangy and shear, with jumpy acidity that creates raw raspberry and herbal flavors. The finish is similar: bold acidity, oak-based toast notes and herbal red-fruit flavors.
This opens with heady aromas of acacia, wild flowers, white tree fruit and a whiff of sage. Brisk acidity and firm, persistent bubbles offset creamy pear, crisp apple and citrus zest flavors. It closes on an almond note.
This opens with heady aromas of jasmine, lemon zest and apricot while the lively palate offers green apple, white peach, citrus and a whiff of flint. Crisp acidity leaves a refreshing finish.
This opens with heady aromas of yellow stone fruit, white flower and citrus. The palate is a bit on the lean side, offering lime and a mineral note alongside bright acidity.
This opens with herbaceous dollops of thyme and fresh-dug earth and evolves slowly in the glass, revealing juicy black plum and berry. Medium in weight and density, it's soft and leathery, with a lengthy, supple finish.
This opens with herbal aromas of menthol, rosemary, sage and black pepper that frame the red berry and cherry core. The palate boasts ample acidity and medium tannins which, coupled with the ripe fruit flavors, result in a crushed-velvet texture. Clean and enjoyable now.
This opens with herbal berry aromas that are textbook Carmenère, but with airing a floral note comes in to accent black-cherry aromas. Toasty, herbal berry flavors are fruity and solid, while this shows some bitterness on the finish.
This opens with hot, fiery aromas, but with airing the nose turns toward cola, leather and plum. Wiry and lively on the palate, this is a focused, slightly tannic wine that reveals earthy, saucy flavors. A leathery, sun-baked finish is a bit stewy. Drink through 2019.
This opens with huge aromas of dark berry, cola and maple. The palate is ultratannic and grabby, with a sandpaper mouthfeel and big, boistrous flavors of black fruit. Syrupy and tannic on the finish, it has an overt rugged feel.
This opens with hushed aromas of white orchard fruit and spring wildflower. The racy palate shows unripe green pear and a hint of lime alongside vibrant acidity that leaves a tangy finish.
This opens with hushed aromas that recall pressed white flower and orchard fruit. The rather lean palate shows raw yellow peach and a touch of acacia honey alongside bracing acidity. A note of bitter almond and a hint of mineral mark the finish.
This opens with hushed scents of dark berry, baking spice and a whisper of violet while the firm palate offers black cherry, black pepper and a cocoa note. Astringent tannins lead up to the rather abrupt finish.
This opens with initially assertive oaky tones of cocoa powder, vanilla sauce and sweet spice that marry seamlessly with raspberry jam and boysenberry fruit. The palate is velvety and plush, with decadent fruit flavors and earthy soil and spice notes that hang around through the long finish. Drink now–2020.
This opens with inky, dark concentration and offers many of the beautiful aromas associated with the Cabernet family of grapes: Dark berry, prune, dried spice and chocolate. It delivers impressive intensity and persistency, with well-formed tannins and mocha softness on the finish.
This opens with intense aromas of violet, ripe dark-skinned berry and baking spice. The bright, succulent palate shows black cherry, crushed raspberry and black pepper alongside fresh acidity and smooth tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
This opens with intense floral aromas and a whiff of candied citrus. The slightly sweet palate offers lemon drops, exotic fruit and notes of honey and almond.
This opens with intense floral aromas that recall white roses, lemon zest and apricot. The linear, vibrant palate offers pink grapefruit, white peach and a flint note alongside crisp acidity that leaves a refreshing finish. Oliver McCrum, T. Edward Wines.
This opens with intense fragrances of peach and apricot that carry over to the palate alongside a juicy lemon flavor. It also boasts mouthwatering salinity and mineral sensations and, while it's delicious now, hold for 2–3 years to develop additional dimensions of flavor.
This opens with intriguing aromas of dried tree fruit, smoke, brimstone and acacia. The palate delivers lemon zest, honey, mineral and toasted almond alongside bright acidity.
This opens with inviting aromas of wet hay, espresso grounds, peat moss and pipe tobacco. In the mouth the fruit kicks in—cassis and black cherry—with plenty of acid. The tobacco note rings clearly all through a long, satisfying finish. Fermented with native yeasts, 43% whole cluster, and aged for nine months in new French oak, it's a wine with a solid decade of life ahead.
This opens with inviting, classic Sangiovese aromas: woodland berry, forest floor, new leather, violet and truffle. The youthfully taut palate isn't quite as expressive—yet—but already offers Marasca cherry, white pepper and star anise notes. It's primary in its flavors now but will develop complexity over the next decade and then maintain well for years. Drink 2022–2032.
This opens with juicy cranberry and cherry fruit, remaining concentrated through the core palate. Good as it is, the wine fades more quickly than its reserve siblings, which would suggest drinking this one first while the others gain further time in bottle.
This opens with juicy pomegranate and cherry notes before bourbon barrel scents take hold. The midpalate seems to fade, then the flavors return on the finish. Give it another year or two in bottle to pull itself together.
This opens with leafy underbrush aromas accompanied by whiffs of blue flower, rubber and toasted oak. The palate's oak-driven sensations of chocolate and coffee muffle the restrained blackberry and black cherry flavors. Polaner Selections, Ambrosia Wine Group.
This opens with leathery aromas of earthy plum and red-berry fruits. It's medium in body and intensity, with racy, tomatoey acidity. Baked flavors are a bit stalky and echo the nose, while this gran reserva finishes ripe and easy. Drink through 2021.
This opens with lemon, lime and tropical fruit aromas that carry over to the palate alongside flavors of yellow apples, citrus and peach. It's linear, with freshening acidity and a drying finish. Pair it with lightly seasoned seafood.
This opens with licorice, chopped herb, eucalyptus and dark spice aromas. The assertive palate offers dried black cherry, coffee bean and sagenotes framed by close-grained tannins.
This opens with light and bright aromas of ripe red plum and berries, with glimmers of savory herbs and menthol. Accessible and open on the palate, the solid red-fruit core is brimming with juicy flavor, while a soft astringency unfolds on the close.
This opens with lightly perfumed red-fruit aromas of raspberry and plum, with a bright palate that shows mostly red plum, raspberry and cherry flavors. This is a basic, clean wine comprised of 75% Garnacha and 25% Tempranillo.
This opens with loads of milled black pepper, which makes a strong statement. Behind that spicy tone are notes of black fruit, prune, tobacco and leather. Soft cherry and chocolate accents appear on the finish.
This opens with lots of spice, tart and light red fruits and some strongly herbal tannins. There is a big wash of sweet baking spice, source unknown, that offsets the stemmy and herbal quality of the fruit.
This opens with lovely floral aromas accompanied by pure fruit sensations. The palate offers ripe yellow peach, lemon-lime and almond notes. This can be enjoyed now or held for a few years to develop more complexity.
This opens with mature plum and vanilla aromas. The dense, simple palate shows mocha, toast and prune flavors, with rounded tannins. Drink through 2018.
This opens with mealy aromas of watermelon and cherry that smell rich and full. The palate offers a bit more restraint, with focused flavors of tart cherry and berry that are framed by prickly acidity. The finish is short, but crisp and mouthwatering.
This opens with mildly leafy, murky aromas of iodine and latex, with hints of black fruit. The palate feels a bit choppy and hollow, with an herbal mix of tomato and red plum flavors. It's solid, but herbal and scratchy feeling as a whole.
This opens with mostly toast and barrel char, but airing allows chocolate and spice aromas into play. This Malbec feels tight, stout and chewy, with fresh acidity and firm tannins. Black-fruit flavors are toasty all the way to a peppery spicy finish. Drink through 2021.
This opens with muddled aromas of floral air freshener, ripe black plum, wet fur and a funky whiff of game. The rustic palate falls apart quickly, showing dried cranberry, a hint of dried herb and fleeting tannins.
This opens with muted aromas of yellow stone fruit and tomato vine while the rather lean palate offers unripe peach, citrus and mineral alongside brisk acidity.
This opens with muted aromas that recall blackberry, violet, dark spice and leather. The chewy palate offers ripe plum, espresso and almond accompanied by robust tannins. Drink through 2018.
This opens with notes of pulpy red fruit and cherry spread over a dark, velvety consistency. There's a spicy touch of crushed white pepper on the finish that underscores the wine's overall structure and freshness.
This opens with notes of toasted walnut, yellow flower and orchard fruit. The fresh, elegant palate delivers yellow apple, mineral and bitter almond alongside bright acidity.
This opens with notes of wild berry, scorched earth, dried spice and a balsamic note. On the firm palate, grilled herbs, graphite and licorice accent the black cherry core. Youthfully assertive but ripe tannins and fresh acidity provide the framework.
This opens with nutty aromas that eventually reveal subdued notes of fruit and spice. The palate is lean, with walnut flavors and hints of dried cherry and nutmeg. It lacks fruit richness and has a bitter finish.
This opens with oak-driven aromas of toast, espresso, coffee and coconut. The concentrated palate offers oak, dried blackberry, ripe plum, roasted coffee bean, vanilla and a confectionary note alongside packed tannins. The fruit is starting to dry out so drink soon.
This opens with oak, coconut, toast and camphor aromas while the tightly wound palate offers Marasca cherry, espresso, mocha and star anise flavors. It's still oak-dominated, with raspy tannins that grip the finish. Drink after 2021.
This opens with oaky aromas that suggest plastic and milk chocolate, but with airing, shift to berry fruits and mint. The palate is hard and tannic, while savory berry, BBQ'd notes and meaty berry fruit flavors finish with resiny oak and pinched tannins. This wide load is tannic and oaky; give it until late 2014 before revisiting.
This opens with off-putting aromas of cinnamon and air freshener. On the palate, this is chewy and creamy, with a ton of oak and jammy, baked berry flavors that finish sticky.
This opens with offbeat floral and perfumed aromas of berry fruits and oak. The palate is jammy, tannic and squat in feel. Ripe black-fruit flavors come with ample chocolate and spice notes, while the finish is long, sturdy and intriguing, with chewy residual tannins. Drink through 2025.
This opens with oily stone-fruit, matchstick and mustardy aromas. Malic acidity drives the palate, while modest tropical fruit flavors finish sweet before falling off toward bitterness.
This opens with oxidized, creamy aromas while the palate offers mostly acidic, tart citrus flavors that are surrounded by oxidized stone-fruit notes. The finish ends nutty.
This opens with Pecorino's classic floral fragrance of acacia and hawthorne, accented by whiffs of stone fruit. On the palate, it delivers ripe peach and apple flavors, with notes of ginger, almond and a drop of honey. Energizing minerality marks the finish.
This opens with perfumed aromas of blue flower, cherry and wild berry. Soft and simple, it has a pretty floral finish of red rose and violet.
This opens with persuasive aromas of wild berry and cassis before cola and leather notes enter. It's a powerfully built Malbec with bright acidity, strong bones and pure, bold flavors of blackberry and black cherry. This is youthful and more fruit focused than the oakier DJN 2006 Reserva Malbec.
This opens with pleasant aromas of lightly grilled apple, orange blossom, brioche and just-toasted hazelnut. It showcases a nice balance between rich flavors and countering vibrancy, with ample acidity to lift the decadent flavors and lend refreshment to the finish. Drink now–2019.
This opens with plum and floral aromas, with freshness coming up from the bouquet. A zesty palate runs along a beam of bright acidity, while spicy raspberry core flavors finish peppery and with a burst of toasty oak. Just 50 cases made.
This opens with plump cherry fruit and some oak shadings. It has bold intensity with a modern flair and has the high acidity, fresh fruit and tight tannins needed for successful cellar aging.
This opens with pretty aromas of blackberry, blue flower and a whiff of moist earth. The soft easygoing palate offers plum, black cherry and licorice alongside smooth, round tannins. Drink now.
This opens with pretty aromas of blue flower and rose petals. The palate delivers flavors of raw red cherry, but dried-berry characteristics seem to be developing on the back, so drink this soon to enjoy optiumum fruity freshness.
This opens with pretty aromas of orchard fruit and a tinge of spring blossom. The juicy palate delivers tropical fruit, white peach and citrus alongside bright acidity. A light mineral note marks the close.
This opens with pretty aromas of violets, plum cake and black berries. The juicy, smooth palate delivers crushed black cherry alongside supple tannins and bright acidity.
This opens with pretty aromas of wild white flowers and pear. The palate is light and fresh, with a core of yellow apple, Williams pear and tropical fruit, with a crisp, quenching finish. Pair it with mild seafood dishes or light pastas.
This opens with pretty aromas suggesting perfumed berry, leather, violet and menthol. The soft, accessible palate offers crushed black cherry and licorice framed in supple tannins. It isn't complex, but it is delicious and already approachable.
This opens with pretty aromas suggesting white spring flower, citrus and white stone fruit. The bright palate offers nectarine, chopped herb and pear alongside refreshing acidity.
This opens with pretty cherry fruit flavors, underscored with a touch of mineral and mocha. But there it ends, feeling one dimensional and fading fast in the finish. Three bottles tasted with similar results.
This opens with pretty floral aromas of white peach and juicy pineapple accompanied by salinity and dried sage notes. Siena Imports, L'Amore di Vino.
This opens with pretty floral aromas that recall violet and iris together with a whiff of dark berry. The bright palate delivers juicy black cherry, crushed cranberry, clove and dried anise. Smooth tannins and zesty acidity give it an easy-drinking quality so enjoy soon.
This opens with pretty fruit tones of cherry and blackberry, with subtle tones of spice and rum cake in the background.
This opens with pretty scents of plum, blue flower, baking spice and a whiff of leather. The lean palate doesn't live up to the nose, showing raw sour cherry, orange peel and a hint of fennel seed accompanied by dusty, fleeting tannins that dry out the finish.
This opens with pretty, dark concentration and balanced aromas of black cherry and red currant set against leather, cedar and drying mineral notes. That extra density helps soften the sharp acidity.
This opens with prickly herbal-plum and red-fruit aromas. The palate feels blocky, with thick tannins, and the flavor profile offers black fruit in front of a resiny, dry finish that comes with overt oak influence.
This opens with prune, menthol, nail varnish and plastic aromas. The palate is tired and evolved, showing dried black cherry and fig flavors, with a hint of orange peel and worn tannins. It finishes short.
This opens with prune, mocha and baking spice aromas. The palate shows black plum, tobacco and raspberry jam flavors with an evolved tannic structure. Drink through 2021.
This opens with pure aromas of green plum, gooseberry and fresh herbs—the herbal notes so prominent, it's almost reminiscent of a men's fragrance. The lightweight palate is bright in acidity and crisp, tart lime-focused flavor. Drink now.
This opens with pure, attractive nectarine and apricot aromas, along with hints of mineral and petrol. It feels pure and racy, with delicious, clean flavors of pineapple, honey and mango. It's delicate and fresh on the finish, with just enough weight to be taken seriously.
This opens with rather funky aromas of barnyard and game. The rustic aromas carry over to the palate along with overripe black-skinned berry, orange peel and grilled herb. Firm tannins provide structure.
This opens with rather funky aromas of scorched earth, overripe black-skinned fruit and a whiff of barnyard. The extracted palate offers mature black cherry, toast, espresso and a gamey note alongside tightly packed tannins. A note of roasted coffee bean signals the close.
This opens with raw notes of wild berry and dried herb that lend it an untamed, rustic feel. The palate is bright.
This opens with raw oak and toasted hazelnut aromas. The closed, bracing palate lacks fruit richness, offering instead oak-driven spice notes bolstered with astringent tannins.
This opens with raw, charred, chemical aromas along with black-fruit notes. Resiny and chewy on the palate, with blackened flavors of plum and raw wood grain, this remains burnt tasting and severely woody to the end.
This opens with red berry aromas and unusual whiffs of crushed dill and celery. Those green notes carry over to the taut, lean palate, with raw cherry, cranberry and clove. Bracing, tightly wound tannins and firm acidity provide the backbone.
This opens with red fruit aromas that are wrapped around earth and leather scents, yielding a rustic whole. It feels snappy, with red fruit acidity leading to a gritty, lively palate, with flavors of brown sugar, red pepper, plum and raspberry. Long on the finish but short on texture.
This opens with restrained aromas of vanilla, berry and a floral note. The informal, easy-drinking palate offers tart cherry, raspberry and a hint of baking spice alongside bright acidity. It's not very intense and already extremely accessible so drink soon.
This opens with restrained cooking spice and dark-skinned berry aromas. The lively, informal palate offers red cherry, white pepper and anise hints, with soft tannins and brisk acidity. Drink soon.
This opens with rich, roasty aromas of blackberry, plum and cassis, with hints of black tea and Violet mints. The medium-weight palate is balanced yet solidly structured, with ample tannins and a cherry skin, pepper and black-tea astringency that lingers on the finish. Drink now–2018.
This opens with ripe dark-skinned berry, underbrush and baking spice aromas, while the dense, robust palate offers black cherry jam, clove and licorice flavors. It's already accessible, with fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2021.
This opens with ripe woodland berry, pressed iris and chopped herb aromas. The young, taut palate offers Morello cherry fruit accented by orange zest and clove against a backdrop of fine-grained tannins. A strawberry note wraps up the tight, fresh finish. Drink through 2018.
This opens with ripe, almost jammy, notes of strawberry and black cherry followed by sweet almond and spice scents. There's a touch of sweetness on the close that's backed by a plush, succulent mouthfeel.
This opens with rose petal, red-skinned berry and cake spice aromas. It's bright and easy drinking on the palate, with Morello cherry, raspberry jam and cinnamon flavors. Vibrant acidity and smooth tannins lend easygoing support. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with rustic aromas of barnyard, wet animal fur, game and overripe black fruit. The overripe quality carries over the palate along with notes of bacon, rubber and fleshy blackberry. It finishes on an unpleasantly bitter note.
This opens with rustic aromas suggesting leafy underbrush, game and a hint and of barnyard. The funky aromas follow through to the approachable, rather muddled palate, along with leather, truffle, dried black cherry and a confectionary note. Drink now.
This opens with savory aromas of cured beef, smoked hickory sauce and dried berry fruit. The mouthfeel is fresh in terms of acidity but also gritty in texture.
This opens with savory aromas of cured meat and leather with background tones of ripe fruit and black cherry. It is smooth and sophisticated on the palate with a fine texture and a fruit-forward finish.
This opens with savory spice, leather, cured meat and tobacco notes. There isn't much fresh fruit found, but there is a pretty aromas of cassis. Drink now.
This opens with savory tones of cured meat and Spanish cedar followed by notes of blackberry and maraschino. The mouthfeel is sweet, succulent and rich.
This opens with savory, slightly beefy aromas of bresaola and ripe blackberry. There seems to be a touch of sweetness on the palate, followed by a thickly textured finish.
This opens with scents of dark berry, toast and a whiff of graphite. On the tense palate, notes of sage, aniseed and tobacco add depth to the core of raw red cherry while bracing tannins offer support. It's still primary so give it time. Drink 2018–2025.
This opens with scents of green melon rind, strawberry hull and lime that carry through to the palate alongside an additional note of peach. A pleasant grassy tone gives interest to the finish, while ample acidity keeps the palate fresh and clean. Drink now.
This opens with scents of orchard fruit, beeswax and a whiff of white flower. The light, linear palate shows Bartlett pear and citrus peel alongside zesty acidity that lends verve.
This opens with scents of orchard fruit, citrus and a touch of stone. The aromas float over to the light-bodied, straightforward palate along with a hint of citrus. Bracing acidity gives it a racy finish.
This opens with scents that recall elderflower, white stone fruit and a whiff of yellow pepper. The linear palate offers white peach, grapefruit and tart gooseberry brightened by racy acidity.
This opens with scratchy, slightly dirty aromas of blueberry and blackberry. The palate is heavy and jammy, but also somewhat raw and abrasive. Cherry and plum flavors are basic, while an inoffensive finish falls off quickly.
This opens with sensations of underbrush, tobacco, espresso and toasted notes. The extracted palate displays stewed fruit sensations, oak, vanilla, roasted coffee bean and searing alcohol. It's already evolved and ends on an almost sugary-sweet note.
This opens with simple fruit tones of cherry and cassis backed by evolved aromas of spice, leather and cola. It shows impressive purity and a long, silky finish.
This opens with slightly green aromas of eucalyptus and mint with ginger and sour berry in the background. There's a strong menthol note on the close.
This opens with smoke, mint, coconut, red berry and graphite aromas. The palate offers dried red cherry and mineral alongside drying tannins. Enjoy it soon to capture the fruit flavors.
This opens with smoky overtones and pulpy richness, with tones of cinnamon, crushed clove, blackberry and plum. The palate shows accents of fresh cola and chopped mint.
This opens with smoky, almost smudgy and intriguing notes of yeast. Underneath, however, there is a wealth of green pear and lemon zest. The palate is uncommonly spicy: white pepper, fresh yeast and crushed aromatic kitchen herbs leave a lasting, salty tang that really hits you There is freshness and concentration and echoing brininess on the long finish.
This opens with smoky, powerful aromas of black fruit and oak. The palate feels flush, offering several levels of character and complexity. Flavorwise, this pulses with blackberry, cassis and fudge, before finishing with subtle prune, mint and chocolate notes. Not edgy or hard. A blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet and Syrah.
This opens with smoky, rubbery aromas along with dark berry and cherry scents. It feels fresh and lively, with good body weight and forward, candied flavors of cherry and raspberry. The finish is nice, with cocoa notes and lasting sweetness.
This opens with soft, bright fruit nuances of raspberry and crème de cassis and a smooth, polished quality of tannins. It finishes with a warming earthy tone of wild mushroom.
This opens with some funky, earthy aromas that soon blow off to reveal scents of leather, truffle, eucalyptus, berry and meat juices. The palate shows dark cherry, raspberry, pipe tobacco and balsamic notes and big, ripe tannins. This reflects the forward vintage, so drink now.
This opens with somewhat evolved aromas of flint and tilled earth, with a hint of vanilla and toast. The palate offers notes of lemon zest, tangerine, bitter almond and apple skin, but it lacks fruit richness.
This opens with somewhat rustic aromas of overripe fruit, truffle, game and a whiff barnyard. The round, accessible palate is already evolved, showing dried black cherry, mocha, anisette and a confectionary note alongside smooth tannins. Drink sooner rather than later.
This opens with spiced blueberry, red plum and tilled earth aromas while the medium-bodied palate doles out blackberry, black cherry and clove flavors. Fine-grained tannins and firm acidity provide support. Drink through 2020.
This opens with standard cherry and berry aromas before transitioning to a juicy palate with red berry, plum, herb and grass notes. It finishes a little hot and aggressive, but for $4 who's complaining?
This opens with staunch green aromas that shout out bell pepper and herbaceous. But give it air and this Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend comes around to show spicy baked-berry flavors on a tannic, full-bodied frame. On the finish, it's herbal, stout and round, with leafy flavors to go with dark-fruit notes. Drink through 2018.
This opens with stewed plum, pressed rose, ground pepper and toast aromas. The palate is austere, with bracing tannins and dried cherry, star anise and sage flavors.
This opens with strong scents and flavors of stem and herb, and shows some potent tannins as well. Then along comes chewy cherry fruit, substantial and somewhat in hiding. Green tea, earth and a hint of baking spices suggest that further aging will help to pull it all together.
This opens with strong scents of rubber, burnt leaf and funky berry that stay with the wine all the way until the finish. It feels wiry, tight and jumpy, with raspberry, plum and leather flavors, plus a rubbery note on the finish.
This opens with subdued aromas of black-skinned berry and a whiff of baking spice. The straightforward palate delivers black plum, clove and leather alongside round tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with subdued aromas of citrus blossom and yellow stone fruit while the weighty palate doles out unripe apricot, yellow peach and bitter almond. Showing the heat of the vintage, this shows less overt freshness than it does in cooler vintages. You'll also notice a hint of evident alcohol on the close.
This opens with subdued aromas of citrus, nut and a hint of honey. The tangy palate offers grapefruit, candied lemon peel, tangerine and bitter almond alongside zesty acidity.
This opens with subdued aromas of dark berry, cake spice, espresso and a whiff of pressed violet. On the straightforward palate, hints of white pepper and star anise add depth to dried morello cherry while solid tannins lend support.
This opens with subdued aromas of dark berry, scorched earth, grilled porcini and a whiff of leather. The palate offers sour cherry, sage and a hint of cured meat alongside raspy tannins that give it a grainy finish.
This opens with subdued aromas of espresso, grilled herb, scorched underbrush and French oak. The lean evolved palate shows roasted coffee bean, a hint of oak-driven spice and a salty note but the fruit has already dried up, leaving an abrupt, astringent finish.
This opens with subdued aromas of French wood, grilled herb, forest floor and dark spice. The firmly structured palate shows espresso, toast, powdered sage and licorice but not much fruit richness. Grainy drying tannins leave an astringent mouthfeel.
This opens with subdued aromas of mature plum, espresso, dried herb and a whiff of forest floor. The dense rounded palate offers dried cherry, licorice, vanilla and coffee framed in velvety tannins. Drink this through 2022.
This opens with subdued aromas of menthol, dried herb and spiced plum. The palate is rather evolved, offering dried cherry, coffee, clove and a hint of black tea framed in close-grained tannins that grip the finish. Drink sooner rather than later to capture what fruit remains.
This opens with subdued aromas of orchard fruit and a whiff of hazelnut. The racy palate is a bit lean but still offers Bosc pear, lime, bitter almond and a trace of mineral. Drink soon.
This opens with subdued aromas of red berry and violet. The lively, no-frills palate offers tart cherry and a hint of chopped herb accompanied by polished tannins. It's made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.
This opens with subdued aromas reminiscent of acacia flower, toasted nut and citrus drop while the lean, zesty palate suggests lemon rind, yellow apple skin and bitter almond. Bracing acidity provides a brisk framework.
This opens with subdued aromas suggesting sour berry, clove and a touch of leather. The accessible, straightforward palate offers morello cherry and a hint of star anise alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2019.
This opens with subdued aromas that evoke dried yellow flower and overripe citrus peel. The aromas carry over to the lean brisk palate along with suggestions of lemon, bitter yellow-apple skin and an unusual funky hint of crushed black olive.
This opens with subdued aromas that recall yellow flower, toasted nut and a whiff of citrus. The rather lean but quenching palate offers lemon zest, white almond and a hint of mineral alongside zesty acidity.
This opens with subdued aromas that suggest chamomile flower, passion fruit and a whiff of adhesive bandage. The lean, stringy palate shows notes of crunchy celery, grapefruit and a hint of stone alongside nervous acidity.
This opens with subdued aromas that suggest cured meat, leather, menthol and tilled soil. The palate offers dried black cherry, dark baking spice and a hint of licorice alongside nervous acidity and assertive, tightly wound tannins.
This opens with subdued berry and carob aromas. The dense palate delivers ripe black cherry, mocha and tobacco flavors, framed by rounded tannins. Drink through 2019.
This opens with subdued black-skinned fruit and baking spice aromas. The palate is straightforward and easygoing, with black cherry, tilled soil and leather alongside flavors supported by firm tannins. Enjoy through 2021.
This opens with subdued oak, dried tropical fruit and bell pepper aromas. On the medium-bodied palate, a confected hint of coconut accents grapefruit and mature peach flavors.
This opens with subdued toast, espresso, scorched earth and underbrush aromas, while the chewy palate offers dried black cherry, licorice, vanilla and coffee notes. Assertive, close-grained tannins carry the finish.
This opens with subdued, earthy aromas suggesting used leather, grilled sage, Mediterranean scrub and mature berry. On the hearty, monolithic palate, a pronounced licorice note and alcoholic warmth underscore the mature black cherry and clove flavors. Assertive tannins provide a tight framework. Drink 2020–2027.
This opens with subdued, mature yellow apple, acacia and almond aromas that carry over to the abrupt, tangerine-inflected palate. It has a lean, bitter finish.
This opens with subtle aromas evoking yellow pear, Mediterranean brush and a rather unusual whiff suggesting warm hay. The linear rather lean palate shows mature apricot, citrus and a hint of bitter almond alongside bright acidity and a tangy saline note.
This opens with subtle aromas of dark berry, tobacco and exotic spice. The vibrant palate is more expressive, delivering a core of juicy black cherry accented by notes of raspberry, white pepper, vanilla, licorice and savory herb. This finessed wine is still young, but structured with tightly knit, yet fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2025.
This opens with subtle aromas of white spring flower, red berry and a whiff of toast that carry over to the rather lean palate along with notes of sour cherry, pomegranate and a hint of oak. It closes on a bitter-almond note.
This opens with subtle aromas of white stone fruit, yellow flower and crushed rock. The structured, savory palate offers tangerine zest, yellow apple, lime and minerals. Toasted almond marks the close.
This opens with subtle aromas of wild flower and a whiff of exotic fruit. The bright fruity palate offers white peach, apple and a hint of honeydew melon. It's straightforward and refreshing.
This opens with subtle aromas suggesting underbrush, exotic spice, vanilla, menthol and toast. On the structured palate, bright acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins support ripe Marasca cherry, clove and star anise flavors. Drink 2021–2031.
This opens with subtle aromas suggesting white flower, hay and dried aromatic herb. The medium-bodied palate offers juicy yellow peach and a hint of grapefruit while a salty hint of mineral marks the close.
This opens with subtle aromas suggesting wild flower and orchard fruit. Round and ripe, the palate shows tropical fruit, pineapple and citrus peel alongside a saline note.
This opens with subtle dark-skinned berry, baking spice and leafy underbrush aromas. The round palate offers fleshy blackberry, star anise and white pepper notes, punctuated by ripe tannins. Drink through 2020.
This opens with subtle red-skinned berry and baking spice aromas. The straightforward palate evokes red plum and clove alongside smooth tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with subtle scents of citrus, pear and white spring flower while the vivacious palate doles out ripe golden apple and a hint of lemon zest. Vigorous bubbles and fresh acidity add brightness.
This opens with subtle scorched soil and black plum aromas that continue on the straightforward palate. It's easygoing, with smooth tannins. Drink soon.
This opens with sun-baked soil, mocha, prune and leafy underbrush aromas. The densely concentrated palate offers black cherry jam, espresso and vanilla flavors, with scorching alcohol and assertive tannins that leave an astringent finish.
This opens with sweet aromas of nutmeg and cinnamon, with bright tones of cassis and white cherry in the background. The firm, fresh mouthfeel would pair well with grilled meat or sausage.
This opens with sweet aromas of red berry, vanilla, toasted hazelnut and white pepper. It has a feminine touch, with endnotes of blue flower and red currant. Drink after 2018.
This opens with sweet aromas of ripe cherry and blackberry. It is bold and defined by a generous, modern style, with soft tannins on the finish.
This opens with sweet fruit tones of honeydew, ripe peach and apricot. The full, generous mouthfeel is quite loveable.
This opens with sweet notes of dried strawberry and Christmas spice backed by touches of bitter chocolate and toasted hazelnut. The finish has elements of both sweetness and sourness.
This opens with textbook Nebbiolo aromas of new leather, forest floor, red berry, culinary spice and a whiff of blue flower. On the savory palate, taut, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity support Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and white pepper flavors that should integrate after a few more years in bottle. Drink after 2022.
This opens with the delicate scents of citrus blossom and white stone fruit. The lively palate tastes of white peach and lemon zest while firm acidity gives it a fresh finish.
This opens with tilled soil, dried black cherry and licorice aromas while the accessible, savory palate delivers blackberry jam, clove and white pepper flavors. Polished tannins offer smooth support. Drink through 2020.
This opens with toast, ground pepper, grilled herb and sawdust aromas. The palate is firm with grippy tannins but expressive, evoking sour cherry, roasted coffee bean, oak and star anise.
This opens with toasted oak, eucalyptus and violet aromas. The palate is tight and compressed, showing toasted oak and black spice flavors alongside grainy tannins that leave an astringent, mouth-drying finish.
This opens with toasted oak, pressed wild flower and hay aromas. The lean, diluted palate offers butterscotch and tart lemon zest flavors. Although the acidity is brisk, it lacks fruit richness.
This opens with tobacco, black-skinned fruit and underbrush aromas. The straightforward palate offers black cherry fruit with hints of white pepper and nutmeg structured with rounded tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
This opens with tobacco, dark spice, forest floor and leather aromas. The palate offers dried black cherry, licorice and clove flavors, set against tightly wound, taut tannins. It still needs a few years to come together. Drink 2019–2025.
This opens with tomatoey, slightly raw aromas of cured meats and green herbs. The palate is plump, lush and a touch amorphous, while flavors of baked, barbecued black fruits run heavy with savory oak and spice. A minty, hot finish sticks out.
This opens with tonic aromas of citrus and crushed stone, with light touches of peach and pear at the back. The wine is bright and clean, with a sharp, firm quality of effervescence.
This opens with tropical fruit and white flower fragrance while the palate offers honeydew melon, ripe pear and citrus flavors. A hint of white almond leaves a pleasant bitter finish.
This opens with tropical fruit aromas of pineapple, mango and melon that are framed by hints of honeysuckle and sweet spice. The medium-weight palate boasts similar tropical fruit tones, but with an assertive mineral and lime-zest lift on the close, ending fresh and lively. Drink up.
This opens with underbrush, sun-baked earth, spiced plum and espresso aromas. On the taut, full-bodied palate, licorice, clove and grilled herb notes accent a core of black cherry and crushed raspberry fruit. Tightly knit, fine-grained tannins suggest ageing potential. Drink 2020–2028.
This opens with unusual aromas of celery, medicinal herb, saline and a vegetal note with the barest whisper of dark fruit in the background. The unusual medicinal aromas carry over to the palate along with a hint of candied cherry and menthol before finishing abruptly, leaving a bitter aftertaste.
This opens with unusual aromas of moist soil, hay, truffle, underbrush, baked bean, molasses and black-skinned fruit. The palate offers prune, espresso, dried black cherry, thyme and anisette alongside bracing tannins.
This opens with unusual aromas that recall minestrone soup, celery and glazed onion that carry over to the palate. It lacks fruit richness and is rather muddled, offering flavors reminiscent of sweet and sour sauce. Tasted both bottles, same notes.
This opens with unusual aromas that recall plastic and wax. The simple palate offers fleeting sensations of tropical fruit, yellow apple and lemon zest.
This opens with unusual charred aromas and whiffs of resin. The palate retains the same burnt sensations alongside notes of roasted coffee bean and bitter walnut husk. It lacks fruit richness and ends on an astringent note that dries out the mouth.
This opens with vanilla and sweet, powdery aromas. In the mouth, it's bubbly and foamy, with a mix of pickled citrus and dry apple flavors. The finish is crisp and dry like a soda cracker.
This opens with varietal aromas of strawberry and pressed wild flower. The bright, silky palate doles out crushed cherry, raspberry and white almond. It's balanced with bright acidity and lithe tannins. Enjoy soon.
This opens with variety's signature floral fragrance of acacia and jasmine, accented by tropical fruit. The flavors of creamy lemon, pear, tangerine and lime are accented with hints of dried Mediterranean herbs. This is linear and focused.
This opens with very earthy, almost rustic but not unpleasant aromas of animal, tilled soil, wet wool and leather. The palate delivers ripe—nearly overripe—plum and blackberry flavors accented by sage. The tannins still need time to tame so drink after 2016.
This opens with vibrant aromas of green olive, herbs and fresh asparagus along with dark cherry. Not shy, the full-bodied, tightly wound flavors bring a core of dark fruit and savory flavors that persist on the finish.
This opens with violet, red berry and leather aromas. The savory, straightforward palate offers ripe red cherry, raspberry and clove notes, with a hint of sage and fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2020.
This opens with warm, earthy, horsey aromas that become cleaner with airing. A muscular palate with hard tannins and evident tartaric acidity creates edgy flavors that are matched by vanilla and darker-fruit notes of raspberry and plum. This is hard now, a bit disjointed and short in spots. Drink from 2016 through 2026 for best results.
This opens with weedy aromas along with whiffs of coffee, espresso and toasted oak. The raw palate displays oak, licorice and dried sage but it lacks fruit richness. Astringent tannins generate an abrupt finish.
This opens with whiffs of cellar floor, underbrush, scorched soil, game and a hint of sweat. The gamy note follows through to the rustic palate, along with fleshy black fruit and a note of powdered sage.
This opens with whiffs of resin, stewed prune and exotic spice. The raspy palate is extremely evolved, showing mint, a note of raisin and the warmth of alcohol despite the modest declaration of 13.5% alcohol on the label. The fruit is drying up quickly so drink soon.
This opens with whiffs of white spring flower while the extremely simple, rather diluted palate offers green apple and white peach. Fresh acidity adds brightness.
This opens with whiffs of yellow apple, pineapple and white spring flowers. The palate delivers tropical fruit and white peach alongside crackling acidity and persistent, vigorous bubbles.
This opens with white flower, yellow stone fruit and honeydew melon aromas. The fruity sensations carry over to the palate, with a tangerine zest note and tangy acidity that leads to a juicy finish.
This opulent and reasonably priced blend of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc is enhanced by a soft Merlot component. A sweet, rich wine with pretty aromatic highlights of mature fruit and spice.
This opulent blend of all four Dão grapes (Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alfrocheiro and Jaen) is structured, full of tannins and sports a dry core. Its black fruits are in balance with this bold structure, giving a wine that is solid and concentrated, and still needing some aging. Drink from late 2018.
This opulent Chianti Classico opens with aromas of violets, black berries, meat juices and spice. The delicious palate delivers concentrated black cherry layered with white pepper, cinnamon, clove and balsamic herbs. It's soft and round but at the same time it boasts alluring intensity.
This opulent Soave Classico is made from native Garganega grapes that see a bit of oak aging to acquire subtle tones of roasted almond and smoky mineral. Cool acidity caps the close and promises to match spicy chicken curry.
This opulent wine is full of ripe fruit and has a generous texture. Apricot and pear flavors give richness that is cut by acidity that gives the wine tremendous lift. The toast adds the lightest touch at the end. Drink from 2019.
This opulent wine is very ripe. From Dow's flagship vineyard, it is a sweeter wine than many of its kind, showing a caramel note and soft tannins. Within all of its sweet fruit is a firm, dry, structured core.
This opulent wine opens with a blast of buttered toast and tropical fruit aromas. The flavors are complex, with swirls of pineapple, pear, yeast, toast and cinnamon. Drink now–2015.
This opulent wine, with its honeyed apricot and resiny flavors, is layered with wood and spice, giving it extra life. It also has a hint of mocha—an earthiness that adds weight but not heaviness to the overall character. Poised and pretty, but also substantial.
This opulent, powerful wine has weight, richness and a beautiful creamy texture. It's built to age, from its wood aging to its minerality. Concentrated, it offers yellow fruits shot through with acidity. From the grandest Chardonnay vineyard in Burgundy, it will age well and be ready to drink from 2026.
This opulent, ripe wine comes from a single vineyard. It has a rich texture, with dense yellow and apple fruits that are allied to a more citrus, gooseberry and lemon character. It rolls around the mouth with a smooth, satisfying aftertaste.
This orange-colored rosado offers aromas of peach flesh, peach pit and sea shell. Dry, pithy, mildly bitter flavors of citrus and stone fruits end pithy. Contains 25% white Viura.
This orange-pink colored wine is so soft and gentle that it ends up with little flavor at all. It has acidity, hints of apricot and pear, with a little spice at the end.
This orange-style wine has a cloudy yellow-gold appearance because it spent 30 days on the skins and 100 days on the lees. It has aromas and flavors of aged apple cider and tart apple pie with an astringent finish. This style is not for everyone, but for those who appreciate orange wine made from Chardonnay, this is a solid example.
This orange-style wine is dark straw in color and has jasmine and vanilla tones on the nose, while flavors of canned apricots and fresh peaches drive the palate. There's a soft and sensuous finish, due to the 18 month barrels aging.
This orange-tinted, medium-pink rosé is a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Grenache Blanc. It's medium in weight, with understated cherry-berry fruit balanced by the suggestion of wet stone. Drink now.
This orange wine made from the Georgian grape Rkatsiteli starts off on nutty aromas, with a fresh scent of marmalade and yellow peach. On the palate, it feels creamy alongside a tannic impression from skin contact. Flavors of tangerine and almond unfold on the palate and are enjoyed throughout the long, dry finish.
This Oregon-based producer has sourced Petaluma Gap grapes to craft a light, clear and somewhat smoky and full-bodied expression of the variety. It's dense and rich in black cherry, currant and cola-vanilla.
This Oregon winery sources fruit for its Proprietary Red from top Washington vineyards on Red Mountain, in Walla Walla and in the Horse Heaven Hills. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (it could be labeled as such), it packs its rich raspberry, blueberry and black currant fruit into a precisely-defined, balanced and persistent wine with plenty of power.
This organic 60-40 blend of Uva di Troia and Montepulciano offers nutty notes of Graham cracker, chestnut podwer and ripe cherry fruit. The aromas are slightly muddled and the wine shows slight effervescence, which contributes to its pungent and piquant flavors. Agrinatura is an organic winemaker who does not use sulfites.
This organic blend of 60% Carignan, 20% Grenache and 20% Syrah offers a good amount of herbal aromas alongside notes of ripe dark cherry and berry fruit. Rich and tasty flavors of blueberry, boysenberry and raspberry unfold in the medium-weight mouth, while accents of pepper and anise remain through the close.
This organic bottling marks Cooper’s 20th year, and it’s a tantalizing, high-strung, dusty wine, with a true Pinot nose full of raspberries and cinnamon. Plenty of verve on the palate, which emphasizes fruit and more fruit. The frame is sleek, but it capably carries the wine’s zip.
This organic bottling, made by the winery's former Winemaker Craig Hawkins (who now spearheads his own brand, Testalonga), is a blend of 54% Chenin Blanc, 31% Viognier and 15% Chardonnay. There's an immediately attractive richness to the nose, thanks to upfront notes of beeswax, honeysuckle, Asian pear, yellow apple and a touch of guava. The medium-weight mouthfeel is surprisingly direct and clean, with tart white fruit and pure citrus tones that carry through to the bright finish. Drink now–2018.
This organic Cava opens with round, yeasty aromas of dusty spice and baked apple. It's juicy in feel, while flavors of mature, pithy orange and grapefruit end short, both in length and level of finesse. For something bright and fresh, this fits the bill.
This organic Chardonnay offers notes of soft pear, grass and citrus on the nose, while sweet citrus oil dominates the medium- weight mouth. A touch of melon rind unfolds on the short finish. Easy to drink, and drink now.
This organic Falanghina offers juicy aromas of peach, honey, pear and pine nut. It's a textbook white wine from Southern Italy that would pair beautifully with appetizers thanks to its crisp, fruity flavors.
This organic Nero d'Avola offers bold aromas of black cherry, cured meat, black espresso and tangy Indian spice.
This organic rosé leads with mineral aromas that are framed by fruity notes of yellow peach, melon and green mango. The palate is clean and direct, with attractive vibrancy and freshness that carries through to the softly herbal finish. Drink now.
This organic vineyard in the northern reaches of Tejo regularly produces concentrated wines like this. It's richly endowed with fine tannins and black fruit but also has the sort of structure that will allow it to age well. Drink from 2019.
This organic wine from the scorching 2003 vintage is definitely past its prime with a brownish hue and tired aromas of resin and very ripe fruit. It's just short of cooked, but the aromas do recall jam and black fruit marmalade. The wine is thin and compact in texture with lingering notes of dark chestnut and spice.
This organic wine was made without added preservatives. After swampy aromas, the flavors are nicely fruity and herbaceous, with a light-medium body and a clean finish.
This organic wine, produced with a natural and biodynamic approach, is an interesting blend of 30% Syrah, 20% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 10% Marselan. It offers pronounced earthy characteristics, as well as a citrusy kick (like tangerine oil) to the blueberry and blackberry fruit core. The mouthfeel is creamy and velvety, with plush tannins and lingering baking-spice flavors.
This organic, Sangiovese-based rosato opens with subtle tones of raspberry and citrus. The palate has a slender feel.
This organically farmed blend of Sangiovese, Foglia Tonda, Barsaglina and Colorino opens with sweet cherry and blueberry notes followed by light accents of spice and leather. This easygoing wine shows medium intensity and fresh acidity.
This organically farmed Cabernet Sauvignon shows a thin, compact ruby color and moderate aromas of cherry, rose and spice. The wine is clean and fresh, but it's not particularly long lasting or rich.
This organically farmed Dolcetto delivers surprising sophistication with tones of wild mushroom and spice behind bright red fruit and berry. The wine is slightly tannic but closes with a smooth, polished texture.
This organically farmed field blend includes some Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet. It has soft acidity and a simple structure, the flavors a mix of red and black cherry and berry.
This organically farmed wine by Barone Pizzini shows bright aromas of citrus, cut grass, kiwi and white flower. Verdicchio is one of the promising white grapes that puts central Italy on the world wine map.
This organically grown blend of Touriga Nacional and Aragonez comes from one of the old aristocratic Dão estates. It's structured with robust tannins and has richly dense black currant fruit. Drink from 2019.
This organically grown wine celebrates lavender, used for perfumes and other famous products from Provence. Soft and gently fruity with attractive strawberry flavors plus a touch of spice, the wine is immediately drinkable as an apéritif.
This organically grown, no-sulfites-added Chardonnay is forward and fruity, with a nice scent of green apples and just a hint of butterscotch. Lively and made for immediate drinking.
This organically produced wine is comprised of 86% Melnik, 8% Grenache Noir and 6% Petit Verdot. It has aromas of blueberry, tobacco leaf and leather and flavors of chocolate powder, cassis and blackberry. There is a long finish with a pleasant burst of acidity at the end.
This otherwise fruity wine has a rustic edge. It gives an unattractive herbal character that may come from underripe grapes.
This outgoing and full-bodied wine has a lot going for it. Fruity, enticing aromas lead to fully ripe flavors that suggest plums and fresh strawberries, with a suave and supple texture.
This outlier wine sparked much controversy at the Nebbiolo blind tastings because of the thickness of its extraction and the darkness of its appearance. Serracapelli is a beautifully rich wine that doesn't necessarily highlight Barbaresco typicity. You'll get opulent aromas of black cherry, spice, leather and moist tobacco. The mouthfeel is rich, round and velvety.
This outright delicious wine brings aromas of herbs, coffee and pencil lead along with a mixture of red and blue fruit. The flavors are sweet, luscious and concentrated, bringing a very high yum factor. Give it plenty of time to open up.
This outstanding Chardonnay is made from 100% Dijon clones, sourced from Lange Estate, Freedom Hill and Durant vineyards. Tasty, toasty, creamy and fresh, this is a rich, palate-coating wine with a mix of crisp apple, pear and melon fruit. The texture and depth are lovely.
This outstanding effort offers a vanilla wrap around solid fruit flavors of white peach, yellow plum and nectarine. The texture and detail are delightful, as the wine generously fills in the finish with a hint of marzipan.
This outstanding Malbec dazzles with scents of tobacco and chocolate, flavors of sour cherry and plum, and impressive concentration and persistence. The flavors gather strength and focus, adding details of lavender and lemon curd, as they roll into a lingering finish.
This outstanding Morellino di Scansano has a lovely fragrance of violet, berry and spice. The bright and delicious palate delivers a tight core of black cherry along with white pepper notes and hints of white chocolate and coffee. It has impeccable balance and finesse.
This outstanding Riesling brings a bouquet of rose petals and peaches. There's enough bright acidity to push flavors of lime and grapefruit forward, and the wine drinks dry despite relatively low alcohol.
This outstanding value is sharp and precise, its black-cherry fruit holding down a compact core, annotated with streaks of coffee, truffle and chocolate. It punches well above its price, and should drink nicely into the early 2020s.
This outstanding vineyard has a certain signature of Asian spices that comes through in its own wines as well as those made by other producers. Sappy red fruits and some high-toned bourbon-barrel highlights are at the core. There are additional notes of sassafras and sandalwood, along with those lovely Asian spices. It's a thick, full throttle, mouth-coating wine.
This outstanding vineyard, matching mature vines to biodynamic farming, really shines in 2014. A toasty nose sends up coconut and vanilla notes, leading into a full-bodied full-flavored wine with the structure to age another decade or more. It's the perfect balancing act between immediate accessibility and long-term cellaring potential. Drink now through 2030.
This outstanding Walla Walla boutique has established a track record for consistent improvement, and the white wines are best of show. Once again this 2006 blend is smooth, round and richly endowed with mixed stone fruits. Lovely aromas build a dense cloud of complex fruit, toast and caramel scents around the glass; once in the mouth the full-bodied fruit takes hold with lychee, peach and stone fruits. Immaculate and persistent, this stunning wine just keeps on coming.
This outstanding wine is quite lush and ripe without being overtly fruity. It has enticing vanilla and coconut aromas, ripe honeydew melon and fig flavors and an exceptionally viscous and creamy mouthfeel. It's full bodied and very smooth in texture.
This outstanding wine should earn the somewhat difficult grape many new fans. It opens up beautifully with ample aeration and is true to variety without giving the impression of cheap perfume, emphasizing spice over powdery scents and showing plenty of ripe fruit, from Asian pear, to pineapple to jicama.
This over-the-top wine has an unusually deep color and a potent, charred-wood aroma, followed by sweet-seeming oak and dried-fruit flavors. It's medium bodied and a touch tannic in texture.
This overall good, refreshing Chard is a go-to white for everyday sipping. On the nose, citrus, apples, and fresh Chardonnay fruit leads, and on the palate, straightforward fruit is both elegant and approachable. The finish is substantial. Pair with poultry, seafood, or sip alone.
This overly generous Cabernet Franc is supported by 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Oak, pepper and herb characterize the aromas and flavors, with meatiness competing against notes of cedar. Soft, supple and brawny, the wine finishes in a hurry.
This overly ripe Malbec is packed with rooty spice, oak and tree bark aromas. The wine feels sticky and soupy, with a resiny texture and salty, oaky flavors of syrupy berries and mint. A sugary, cloying finish is short on freshness.
This overpriced Cava is all about the packaging and not much about the quality of the wine in the bottle. It smells acrid and burnt, and while the mouthfeel is fine, it tastes sulfuric and dried out, with a bitter finish. And that's not saying anything about the gold glitter flakes that float throughout this weird, pricey Cava.
This overpriced Merlot is tough and coarse. It has sweet berry and licorice flavors, with a bitter finish.
This overripe Cab tastes like the essences of currant, raisin and prune. It's bone dry and quite tannic. This unbalanced wine is not going anywhere, so drink up.
This overtly ripe white shows a generosity of guava and mango flavor—a tropical outpouring of perceptible sweetness that's wrapped in a boldness of body and vanilla oak.
This overtly spicy wine is very intense, with a slight burn on the palate from the pepper flavor. Exotic white fruit and a hint of pomegranate are the flavors. It has a hard, final edge from its alcohol.
This overtly woody wine smells like cedar chips and fresh-cut oak and tastes like pine, menthol and cherry candy. While it's fun to pick out its different flavors, this is not what most people expect from Cabernet.
This own-rooted block is usually blended into Peter Hunken's larger bottling, but this extra-special vintage thankfully got its own stage. Dense boysenberry, black peppercorns, asphalt, charred lamb, dried violets, lilacs and lavender show on the tarry yet floral nose. The palate is zesty with acidity but deep with flavor, offering thyme, soy, rosemary and more peppercorns. It's ideal for a lamb or game dish.
This oxidative style of Grillo shows notes of candied fruit, dried apricot, honey and toasted almond. It will appeal to those who enjoy bold, creamy wines.
This oxidized expression of Sauvignon shows an off-gold color, with aromas of apricot and butterscotch. It tastes flat and broad on the palate.
This oxidized, woody white displays Sherry aromas of flor and peanut buttter, but little to no fruit. Crisp acidity corrals the palate, while barrel-driven flavors are front and center, and once again, fruit is hard to find. Overall, this is stylistically iconoclastic, but the execution is good. Drink through 2022.
This packs a punch, delivering wide swathes of vanilla, clove and chocolate-covered cherry around soft, round tannins and a slightly bitter, savory herbal finish.
This packs tremendous flavor into a low-alcohol wine with moderate residual sugar. Peach pit and juice, green apple and citrusy acids start it off. The flavors keep going through a long, complex finish, adding subtle notes of herb and cut grass.
This paints a true picture of Margaret River in its sage and bay leaf shadings and concentrated cassis fruit. It's all framed by hints of vanilla and toasty oak, but the emphasis remains on dried herbs and fruit through the long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2030.
This pale-colored get by with standard aromas of stone fruit, kiwi and passion fruit. Easy-to-drink and decidedly uncomplicated, it offers simple, fruit-driven flavors.
This pale-colored rosé comes from a producer based in the Aube region. The wine is smooth, raspberry flavored and with a light tang of acidity. The wine is fruity, with a strong sense of the structure and flavor of the wine used to give color. Drink now.
This pale-colored rosé is all about fruit. It is packed with attractive raspberry and red currant flavors that are lifted by the crisp texture and acidity. It has a good depth of flavor with its tangy aftertaste and final burst of fruit.
This pale-colored rosé is dominated by Chardonnay. It tastes drier than previous bottlings, with a tight mineral texture and intense acidity. At the same time, the fruit is all there—red currant and citrus. The wine is delicious now for its crispness, although it will certainly age, and this bottling (disgorged in 3/16) will be at its best from 2018.
This pale-colored soft wine has attractive fruitiness. Red fruits and a touch of spice are linked with gentle tannins. The wine is already gaining maturity and should be drunk now.
This pale-colored wine has a light, perfumed character. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, it is an attractive, bone-dry rosé, ripe with strawberry fruits, that will be best with food.
This pale-colored wine is fruity and soft. With plenty of acidity and a dosage that keeps flavors fresh rather than dry, it has red fruits cut through with attractive citrus acidity. The wine is well balanced and ready to drink.
This pale-colored wine is light, fresh and crisp, with very subtle fruit and nut flavors, lively acidity and a tangy, lingering finish. It's offers a great change of pace.
This pale-colored wine tastes as light as its color. It's fresh and crisp, with attractive acidity and fragrant orange and apple fruits. Soft, it's ready to drink.
This pale-colored wine with its crushed raspberry perfume, is now reaching its peak. It is rich with a dosage that gives it a soft character without losing any of the crisp fruit. The wine is balanced, hinting at toast while still tangy and tight. Drink this delicious wine now.
This pale-colored, dry and light-bodied wine combines a rather smooth texture with lively palate-cleansing acidity and light herb and citrus flavors. It doesn't go deep but does a good job of quenching the thirst quite well.
This pale-colored, light-bodied wine is elegantly crisp, an easy, fine wine to down over roast salmon or pork. It shows subtle flavors of cherries and cola, with darker overtones of pomegranate jam and balsam. Not an ager, but fine now and over the next four years.
This pale-copper bubbly is half whole cluster, half saignée, and finished off dry. Lightly sweet and toasty, it marries strawberry and chocolate flavors to mouth-tickling effervescence. It's simple, tasty, fresh and ready to go.
This pale-hued blend of Grenache and Syrah starts off a bit confected, offering up scents of cotton candy. Yet it's less so on the palate, where the fruit resembles underripe melon and the finish is stony and less generous.
This pale-hued, light-bodied rosé is crisp and a bit ungenerous, but does offer refreshing aromas and flavors of passion fruit and citrus rind, turning zesty on the finish. Drink now.
This pale-pink rosé is comprised of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Syrah. It has aromas of lemon zest, pink grapefruit and strawberry. Red grapefruit along with strawberries and cream mark the palate. The finish is full and fruity.
This pale-pink sparkler, with large, chunky bubbles, offers aromas of mature berry, violet and rose. It's an easy wine that should be a good apéritif.
This pale-pink wine is stylish, crisp and relatively dry. Full of wild strawberry and citrus, it is lively, bright and lightly perfumed. The texture shows a touch of tannin as well as delicate minerality. Drink this well-balanced wine now.
This pale-salmon-colored wine offers aromas of bubble gum, herb and hard cherry candy. It drinks dry, with flavors that come up short.
This pale-salmon sparkler brings aromas of citrus, strawberry and baked bread. The flavors are dry and lively, with tart acidity stretching out the finish.
This pale-straw-colored wine offers aromas of apricot and almond. It has good mouthfeel, smooth tannins, flavors of soft peach, toasted almond, vanilla and freesia, and a finish marked by flavors of almond paste and lemon zest.
This pale apricot-colored semidry wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Aromas of butterscotch and nectarine get the taste buds prepared for flavors of butterscotch, peach, rose petal and nutmeg. It is a gently sweet wine that is not at all cloying, with nicely balanced acidity.
This pale brut smells neutral except for notes of lemon-lime and matchstick. On first take, this feels zesty and fresh, with flavor notes of sugar-free lime and tangerine. On the finish, however, things turn bland and bready as the freshness falls away.
This pale copper rosé blends 71% Shiraz with 16% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Sangiovese. Melon, stone fruit and citrus notes feature on the broad palate that comes into crisp focus on the long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
This pale copper rosé is made from 30% Grenache Gris, 30% Grenache Noir, 30% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. It leads with extremely soft scents of peach skin and strawberry hull that continue through to the medium-weight palate with more intensity. Ample orangy acidity lends freshness to the palate and lift to the finish.
This pale lemon sparkling wine has aromas of citrus flowers, brioche and yeast in the bouquet. It is slightly sweet on the palate with flavors of green apple, peach and sweet lime juice.
This pale orange-pink colored wine offers ripe fruits, spice and a tangy orange and pepper character. The Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle blend is full-bodied and rounded, offering a good opportunity to be paired with food.
This pale peach-colored wine brings vibrant aromas of strawberry and cherry. It's lightly spritzy, drinking almost completely dry with weighty feeling fruit flavors.
This pale peach, lightly bricked wine brings aromas of strawberry and melon rind. It drinks dry with a broad feel and fruit flavors that linger.
This pale pink-grey colored wine is a blend of Duras and Merlot. It is lively and fruity, with a red-currant flavor, delicious crisp acidity and a soft, lively aftertaste. Drink now.
This pale pink colored wine offers appealing aromas of watermelon Jolly Rancher and cherry. It drinks off dry with mouthwatering cherry flavors.
This pale pink fizz is fragrant, with soft strawberry notes that display themselves on a yeasty, rounded, softly frothing body. The palate is dry yet creamy, and is given extra structure by beautifully streamlined acidity.
This pale pink rosé from an extreme coastal vineyard west of the Sta. Rita Hills shows aggressive citrus aromas, crisp nectarine fruit and noticeable chalkiness. A grippy texture and balanced acidity frame the steely palate, which offers restrained, tightly wound strawberry flavors.
This pale pink rosé is 100% Cinsault--an oddity in the Rhône, where so many wines are blended. It's only moderately weighty and rather crisp, with tart, citrusy notes and hints of underripe stone fruit, giving it a straightforward, linear appeal.
This pale pink rosé is light in body and lacking much texture. Delicate melon aromas and flavors are pleasant, but marked by persistent notes of struck match.
This pale pink rosé offers a reasonably complex array of aromas and flavors, ranging from anise to wet stone, and cracked pepper to wild strawberries. It's medium to full in body, with a finish that resonates of wet stone and spice. Drink now.
This pale pink to slightly orange rosé shows tangerine, cantaloupe, cherry and sand aromas on the somewhat muddled nose. It's light in texture and a little flat on the palate but presents enjoyable squeezed lemon and watermelon flavors.
This pale pink wine is 100% Sangiovese and offers aromas of herb and sour cherry. It drinks just a hair off dry, with mouthwatering fruit flavors.
This pale pink wine presents light apricot and wet cement aromas. The palate sizzles with acidity, carrying citrus peel and earthy, clay-like flavors. It lacks only for a bit more fruit.
This pale rosé blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is fruity with crisp strawberry fruits and acidity. It has a soft perfumed aftertaste that makes it immediately attractive. Drink now.
This pale rosé has subdued strawberry aromas and a hint of residual sugar. It comes off as quite generic, without a lot of flavor to bring it to life.
This pale rosé is showing its maturity at seven years of age, its fruitiness transforming into extra richness, with touches of toast. It's a very fine wine, ripe and ready to drink.
This pale rosé is very expressive of its terroir, with beautiful aromas of garrigue herbs and minerality that abound in the bouquet. Additional hints of sweet pea and orange blossom harmonize with the strawberry hull and melon rind fruitiness. Ethereal and dainty, the palate is light and bright, with vibrant acidity and a refreshing finish reminiscent of watermelon rind and orange pith. Drink now.
This pale rosé, made from Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, is attractively fresh, with balanced acidity and fruitiness. The wine offers a tang of plum skins as well as a bite of raspberry. Drink now.
This pale Saint Tropez rosé is ripe and fruity, with attractive red-berry flavors and a warm texture. The rich fruits and smooth structure of the Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Grenache blend make it full enough go with food.
This pale salmon-colored wine shows bright aromas of watermelon and strawberry. The palate drinks dry with mouthwateringly tart fruit flavors.
This pale salmon-pink bubbly opens with frothy bubbles and an inviting note of hard candy. A rounded strawberry flavor unfolds on the palate and finishes dry, making this a lively, ideal party wine that will please many.
This pale salmon rosé is a reliable sparkling wine at a very good price. The latest NV release is toasty on the nose, then offers just faint hints of peach or berry flavors. It's lithe yet creamy on the palate, with a long finish.
This pale salmon rosé is fresh and clean. It opens with bright aromas of strawberry hull, watermelon rind and citrus peel that carry through to the linear yet vibrant palate. The palate boasts excellent verve and refreshment, making this a perfect choice for warm-weather enjoyment. Drink now.
This pale salmon rosé starts off with scents of crushed stone and underripe stone fruit, then shows riper flavors of plum and peach on the palate before ending on notes of watermelon rind and citrus. Drink up.
This pale straw-colored wine has a bouquet of melon and nutmeg. Flavors of pear, peach, apple, lemon curd and soft spice mingle on the palate into the smooth, lemon-tart finish.
This pale strawberry colored wine is half Mourvèdre and half Grenache. It shows a fair amount of volatility that distracts from its aromas. It drinks dry with full seeming flavors.
This pale white offers up an irresistable nose grass and lanolin. Unfortunately, the full-bodied palate is a bit watery, with simple grapefruit flavors that die on the short finish.
This pale wine is light, bright and fruity. It has a tangy edge along with plenty of crisp acidity. The aftertaste is clean, packed with fruitiness with a soft texture.
This pale yellow Chardonnay begins with aromas of lemon, lime and spice and offers flavors of lush tropical fruit and crisp acids. Balanced and alluring, with a fresh overall feel.
This pale, clean wine shimmers like a diamond in the glass. The nose is a shape-shifter, jumping from tropical elements of honeydew, bubble gum and guava to sharper-cut grass tones. It's dynamic on the palate too, proving both ripe with stone-fruit flesh and sour with chopped herbs, green pepper and grass. A touch of crushed rocks rounds it out nicely.
This pale, copper-colored rosato opens with delicate aromas of berry, crushed flower and mineral. The linear palate offers strawberry, flint, nectarine zest and grapefruit alongside crisp acidity. Enjoy soon.
This pale, copper-tinged rosé boasts aromas of melon, citrus and stone fruit. It's medium in weight, with a silky feel on the palate and harmonious blend of fruit that finishes crisp. Drink now.
This pale, cotton candy hued wine contains muted aromas of strawberry hull and raspberry. The flavors are ripe and fruity, with a hint of orange blossom. It's light bodied, but the ripe-fruit sweetness is almost textural.
This pale, peach-colored wine is a blend of Syrah (55%), Sangiovese (28%) and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of bubble gum and herb lead to a bone-dry palate that seems to have a slight spritz. Tart citrus flavors round it out, with the focus on acidity.
This pale, ruby red-colored wine comes from old vines planted at 900 feet in the hills. Two years wood aging and the natural concentration of the fruit have produced a finely poised wine with cherry flavors and a balanced layer of tannins. It's ready to drink.
This pale, watery wine is herbal and sour. It seems barely ripe, with accents of pine needle and very tart, light fruit.
This palest pink-colored wine is equally light and fresh to taste. It has a crisp raspberry flavor with a zest of orange squeezed over it. It's delicious.
This Palmes d'Or style is used to create a wine rather than a Champagne. It works here, the structure and the toast all giving a mouthfeel of Burgundy. The acidity of course is characteristic of Champagne, but it is well integrated into the yeast, the green stone fruits and the pink grapefruit freshness.
This partially oak-aged expression of Pinot Bianco from cool-climate Alto Adige (in the far north of Italy) offers a lovely texture that is creamy and smooth at the same time. Measured aromas include melon, apricot, grapefruit and a touch of vanilla spice.
This particular block was first planted in 2007, so these are young vines. Sometimes fruit from young vines will burst forth in spectacular fashion, and that's the case here. Supremely aromatic, this opens with a velvety mix of Asian spices, fruit leather, plum, cherry, cocoa powder and coffee grounds. All this and more can be tasted as well as sniffed, with excellent penetration through a lingering, cedary finish.
This particular bottling belongs with the very best Syrahs from this Syrah-infatuated state. A broad, toasty, full-bodied and fully realized wine, it has begun to smooth out from the extra years in bottle, but has a long life ahead. Berries, cherries, chocolate, coffee, mocha, tobacco, fungus, graphite… the flavors go and go.
This particular bottling is a work in progress by veteran Brutocao. It's a step forward in their attempt to master Cabernet. The wine still has a rustic edge, with blackberry jam flavors wrapped into firm tannins, and a sweet finish.
This partner of the red Grilos is intense and fruity. It shows fresh acidity while also having ripe apricot, tangerine fruit and a lightly mineral texture. It is still young, so will be better drunk at the end of 2014.
This partnership between the Rhône's Michel Chapoutier and his American importer seems remarkably consistent. Peppery clove aromas presage a medium-bodied, silky wine that combines spice with black olives on the midpalate. It's long, finely textured and espresso-tinged on the finish.
This partnership continues to turn out marvelously complex wines from inland Victoria. Savory, herbal and intriguing on the nose, with hints of raspberry, mushroom and smoked meat, this is a medium-bodied, supple wine. Dusty tannins impart a silky quality to the finish. Drink now–2018.
This Paso producer went north to find old-vine Carignan, a totally worthwhile effort with the wine showing aromas of hugely ripe strawberry and watermelon Jolly Rancher, the tannins smooth and dusty. An easy drinking wine, a hint of Pastis lingers at the end.
This passito-style blend of Muscat Ottonel and Vidal Blanc is layered with amber honey, marmalade, apricot in the fruit camp, and hazelnut, mushroom,toast and ginger for complexity. The palate is equally stimulating and leads to a gorgeous earthiness at the end. In feel this is silky smooth, with ample acidity to carry the plushness. The finish is long and harmonious.
This passito dessert wine from the island of Lipari delivers a deep amber color, with bright aromas of resin, caramel, butterscotch, candied fruit, chestnut and honey. The mouthfeel is rich, syrupy and very sweet.
This patiently aged wine boasts an amazing nose of dried olallieberry fruit leather, chocolate-cherry sauce, vanilla extract and exotic black spices, showing its years in only the best ways. It's surprisingly lean on the palate at first, then evolves into red cherries and plums, with well-integrated dried oregano and black pepper spices.
This patiently aged wine delivers a dynamic and rich nose with aromas of plums, cassis, cola, Dr Pepper, chocolate syrup and well-spiced German chocolate cake. Those ripe elements are tamed on the tart and lively palate that shows sour plum skins alongside star anise, beef blood and dank herbs.
This patiently aged wine kicks off with a tremendous nose, blending blackberry, blueberry and dried black cherry with dark chocolate, hearty tobacco, dill, mint, lemon pepper, lavender and raw lamb aromas. The smooth and lasting palate is laced with licorice that carries through flavors of elderberry and dried sour cherries, with chopped sage, exotic dark chocolate and a woody berry element.
This Paulliac-style blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot presents bright red fruit on the nose alongside black licorice and traditional cigar box scents. The flavors are dominated by red cherries with a touch of anise, sprig of thyme and pleasingly brisk finish.
This peach- and pear-scented wine was bottled with screw caps so you needn't fear TCA. Baking spices accent simple peach and pear flavors in this medium-weight Riesling. Finishes dry and stony.
This peach-flavored wine is sweet in honey and brisk in acidity.
This peppery, fruit-flavored wine has a ripe character and wild strawberry flavors. Drink this full, spicy wine now.
This perenially mediocre wine is a little worse in 2012. It smells blowsy, floral and strange, while in the mouth it's like oaky apple cider. Flavors of cider and faux oak are less than impressive, as is the overall balance.
This perennial Best Buy is one of the richer, more expressive styles of Pinot Grigio. It combines a ripe pear aroma and tangy apple flavors in a smooth texture that stays crisp enough to linger on the finish.
This perennial Best Buy is realiably tasty and easy to drink in 2012. A fleshy nose of peach and almond aromas sets up a simple, lighter-weight palate with peach flavors and an easygoing finish. This is short on acidity so drink sooner rather than later.
This perennial favorite from the producer hits home in smooth, easygoing style. It offers a succulence of juicy tropical pineapple and apricot. A medium build gives it weight and length before it finishes clean and just the slightest bit spicy.
This perennial favorite lives up to its word-of-mouth goodness, offering fistfuls of blueberry and huckleberry with a juicy length and throughput of acidity. Soft and strong, it's supple, floral and memorable in its deliciousness.
This perennial favorite sparkles with tangerine peel, honeysuckle, vanilla, creamery butter and honeyed notes. Very clean and zesty. It drinks as sweet as it smells. Fortunately, the acidity is high and refreshing, the wine exceptionally clean and well-made. Fans of this style will absolutely love it, and there's a lot to like.
This perennial head-turner lives up to its pedigree in this vintage, offering a full-bodied, lush and plush experience characterized by soft layers of dark cherry, blackberry, vanilla and a seasoning of cinnamon. The vines are head-trained within a block planted to many other varieties, 15% of which make their way into this wine.
This perennial offering from the producer, the longtime proprietor of this fine vineyard, showcases cassis and chocolate in full-bodied, undulating waves of big, brash flavor. Despite the mountain provenance, the tannins are soft and well integrated, never distracting from the ripeness of the fruit.
This perennially consistent Priorato deals graphite, coconut, leather, forest and oaky, chocolaty berry aromas in front of a round, mouthfilling palate. Tastes primarily of plum, cherry and currant, with a snappy finish defined by red fruit flavors and length. Perfectly good and ready; can hold through 2014.
This perennially delicious blend brings together 53% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 12% Mourvèdre. It lets each variety speak, offering a structured expression of juicy strawberry, mint and balanced ripeness. Despite its nuances, it's not afraid to be bold.
This perfectly embodies the fruit-forward, irresistibly delicious wines of the 2012 vintage in the Willamette Valley. Along with lively aromas of pepper and spice come brambly fruit flavors of just-picked raspberries and black cherries. It rolls into a lush finish with a streak of espresso.
This performed unevenly depending on the bottle. One bottle was rich and drenched in ripe fruit nuances and cheerful herbal notes but the next bottle had much greener tannins.
This perfumed and floral wine is concentrated and dense. Its ripe black-plum and spice flavors are impressive with their intensity. Produced from biodynamically grown grapes, the wine is showing considerable aging potential. Drink this wine from 2020.
This perfumed and fruity wine is a new concept from Jean-Luc Baldès of Clos Triguedina. It is rich, with the Malbec tannins cushioned by ripe black fruits and mint flavors. It's ready to drink.
This perfumed and solid wine offers some fine tannins. The black fruits and rich structure give a juicy concentration. Named after the wolves who traditionally lived in the valley where the quinta is situated, this wine is ripe and ready to drink.
This perfumed and wood-aged wine is so stylish. It is smooth in texture, paced with acidity and shows well-balanced red fruits. The wine finishes with fine acidity and delicious fruitiness. Drink now.
This perfumed expression of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot shows a great depth of complexity and deliciousness for the price. Firm, grippy tannin stars alongside dark cherry, currant, clove and tobacco, all along a softened layering of texture.
This perfumed floral red made from Baco Noir, an underappreciated French-American hybrid grape, offers surprising depth of complexity and finesse. Hints of dark char, porcini and spice mingle amidst prettier tones of violet and black cherry. It's crisp and lively on the palate, edged by layers of fine feathery tannins and a crush of granite on the finish. Ready to drink now, but tuck a few bottles away to enjoy from now until 2022 if you can.
This perfumed old-vine field blend is rich and stylish. It has weight without power, a fine combination of lively red fruit and firm tannins, and will age well for years. Drink from 2019.
This perfumed Riesling entices with lifted white floral notes against a backdrop of cool, foresty green notes. It's forward and juicy, boasting honeyed yellow peach and apricot flavors. Yet it's also elegantly structured, marked by zesty citrus notes and a cool, mineral finish that lingers endlessly. Drink now–2020.
This perfumed ripe wine is full of delicious fruit. Its fine apple and pear flavors are cut with pink grapefruit to give an intensely textured wine, refreshing, crisp and ready to drink.
This perfumed wine comes from the home vineyard of the producer. With soft tannins and juicy red-berry fruit, the wine is straightforward, delicious and very much in the style of the vintage. It has a crisp end of acidity that gives it just the right lift. Drink from 2018.
This perfumed wine conveys attractive balance between its fruit and fresher acidity. A fresh, crisp texture still needs time to settle in. Drink from the end of 2015.
This perfumed wine discloses hints of apricots and white peaches as well as ripe lime juice. It is balanced, fruity with a good touch of minerality to give texture. The aftertaste is all about fresh fruits that will soften over the next few months. Produced by the Ducourt family, first in Bordeaux in 1858 and now one of the largest independent producers in the region. Philippe Ducourt handles the vineyards and Jérémy Ducourt makes this wine.
This perfumed wine features ripe tannins and strawberry flavors. It is structured, with good concentration and acidity. The wine is developing well with the richness as well as line of fresher acidity. Drink from 2019.
This perfumed wine from a great year is rich in both fruit and structure, solid with tannins as well as ripe fruit. It is still youthful, dense and powerful. Wait and drink from 2018.
This perfumed wine has a delicate apple and pear character enlivened by light spice and ripe melon. A delicious wine, it would be good with sushi and fine as an apéritif.
This perfumed wine has a rustic edge that should blow away as the wine matures. For the fruit, it is red-berry time: bright, soft and lifted by gentle tannins and lively acidity. The wine will improve for a few more months, so drink from late 2017.
This perfumed wine has firm tannins, a dry core and plenty of acidity. Its black currant fruit shows fine potential to give richness. Drink from 2020.
This perfumed wine has light, ripe fruits and soft tannins. Red cherry and raspberry flavors dominate the palate of a wine that is still young. Drink this attractive wine from 2017.
This perfumed wine has remarkable density from fruit, a full-bodied feeling and a dry edge of extraction that all point to its aging potential. Drink from 2016.
This perfumed wine is a superb expression of Oregon Pinot Gris, and the best Tikka's ever from Lemelson. Apples, oranges and ripe melons fill the fruit bowl, bright and luscious and accented with perfectly proportioned barrel notes of toasted coconut and almond.
This perfumed wine is firm with tannins that gives a spicy character. It has a dry core, a juicy aftertaste and rich blackberry fruit that will certainly develop as it matures. Give it some time and drink from 2021.
This perfumed wine is rich, full in the mouth while keeping plenty of fresh, crisp citrus and pear flavors. It is ready to drink, but will be better in 2015.
This perfumed wine is ripe with exuberant black fruit and hints of wood aging. It's juicy with spice and pepper notes as well as bold red fruit. Drink from 2020.
This perfumed wine is softly textured and lightly honeyed. It is ripe and smooth, with a creamy texture. Acidity and grapefruit flavors come through easily at the end. Drink now.
This perfumed wine is very aromatic and crisp. It's still young, not yet fully integrating the acidity, spiced fruits and mineral texture. Wait until 2016.
This perfumed wine is very dry but has delicious and fragrant fruitiness. A slight steely character adds complexity and structure. Made from biodynamically farmed grapes, it is ready to drink.
This perfumed wine offers aromas of plum, flowers, orange peel, smoked meat and coffee. The blue fruit flavors are soft, focused and rich, lingering on the finish.
This perfumed wine offers good balance between citrus and warmer fruits. Peach and apple come together easily with the lemon flavors. The wine has a bright, tight mineral edge and is ready to drink.
This perfumed wine offers plenty (perhaps too much) acidity and red fruits, with only light tannins. That makes for a fruity wine, fresh and ready to drink now and until 2018.
This perfumed wine shows a floral character. Berry fruits add juiciness, complexity and structure. Density on the finish adds interest.
This perfumed wine, with a dry tannic core, is just beginning to soften. The potential for the black fruits is already there. Drink this solid wine from early 2018.
This perfumed wine, with its lychee aromas, is full and rich. That aromatic character continues on the palate, giving rich spice and lychee flavors that are cut with just enough acidity. It's full bodied and ripe and will be ready to drink from 2018.
This perfumed, blossomy wine balances rich, ripe yellow cherry and tangerine sweetness against a straight-edged frame of acidity. It's forward and easy, but delicately nuanced, kissed by hints of almond and spice. The finish is moderately long and lip-smacking. Drink now.
This perfumed, fruit-forward wine is ripe with red berries and sweet tannins. The aftertaste brings in the freshness of the year.
This perfumed, herbal blend of Syrah and Grenache is tight and very crisp. It has intense tangy acidity and a lively fruity aftertaste. This is a bone-dry rosé with a desire for food.
This perfumed, juicy wine exhibts attractive red plum and blackberry flavors. Touches of herbs show a fragrant side to the wine, while acidity acts as a foil to the ripe fruits. Ready to drink now. Screwcap.
This perfumed, juicy wine is bright with red berries and acidity, while a core of firmer tannins gives structure. Even with this, the wine is forward, ready to drink with its long-drawn fruitiness and acidity.
This perfumed, light wine has ripe fruits along with soft acidity and structure. By blending some Merlot with the Malbec, the producer has softened and broadened the tannins and allowed for attractive juicy red fruits at the end,
This perfumed, new-wood-flavored wine is clear-cut and structured. Firm tannins are layered with black fruits and touches of perfumed violets, allied with solid structure. It fills the glass with ripe aromas, while acidity at the end gives a final lift. Drink from 2016, although the wine can be enjoyed now.
This perfumed, smoky wine is gently wood aged and offers layers of tannin and black cherry fruits. It is still young and dense, dark and dry, with piercing acidity. It is concentrated, firm and needs time. Drink from 2019.
This perfumed, soft wine only slowly shows a more structured character. From a well-situated vineyard just above the Serein valley, it offers yellow fruits that are cut with tight citrus and minerality. Drink from 2017.
This perfumed, spicy wine has crisp red fruit and acidity. Light and with a soft aftertaste, it's attractive and ready to drink.
This perfumed, sweet and fruity wine is from Messias's flagship vineyard in São João da Pesqueira, high above the southern bank of the Douro. The tannins melt into the black plum flavor. This is rich, sweet and softly textured, and it will be delicious in a year or two.
This perfumey white dances in intense and creamy layers of stone fruit and vanilla, remaining vibrant and balanced from start to finish. The generous fruit is grown in the relatively cooler Oak Knoll section of the Napa Valley. This should develop further over time and in the glass.
This perky wine offers tropical fruit, citrus and apple sensations alongside the grape's hallmark of bright acidity. It closes on a delicate note of steely mineral. Simple, but well constructed.
This Perli is a gem, a gorgeous reminder that California Syrah can be a liquified representation of beauty. Carrying violet overtones, the wine offers just-picked raspberry and a pronounced entry of peppery spice. Soft it has a long finish and complex subtleties approaching magic. Sit this wine in your cellar if you dare—it's so good to drink now.
This pert, dry red has a nose of cinnamon, clove and red berries while the palate offers dried cherry, plum and pepper. A good everyday red to pair with grilled meats and cheeses.
This Petit Verdot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend clearly wants some time in the cellar. Although it's extraordinarily rich with blackberries, black currants and violets, the tannin-acid structure is such that aging for at least ten years shouldn't be a problem.
This Petit Verdot from southern Tuscany offers aromas of mature black fruit, oak and spice. The palate shows plum, fig, vanilla, nutmeg and oak layered with bitter chocolate. Give this a few more years to soften aggressive tannins.
This Petit Verdot grown on the hillsides of El Dorado County in California Gold Country is all dark berry and strawberry jam, still tight and grippy with room to develop added complexity over time.
This Petite Sirah-led blend, which also features 24% Syrah, 9% Grenache and 1% Viognier, offers deep violet aromas alongside pine, tarragon and sea salt caramel. There's a strong molasses and pancakes-with-fruity-syrup character on the palate and very soft mouthfeel. Definitely a dessert sipper.
This Petite Sirah has a strong aroma of farm and funk, and not much else to distinguish itself.
This Petite Sirah is deeply black in color and otherwise satisfactory though a bit disjointed, with an off-aroma of rubber peeking through.
This Petite Sirah is soft and very dry, a wine to drink now and for the next few years. With its easy tannins, it shows baked fruit tart flavors of blackberries and currants, with an edge of crushed peppercorn.
This Petite Sirah, enhanced by 8% Syrah and 1% Viognier, is extremely dense on the nose, with aromas of blueberry, black currant, vanilla, tarragon and fudge. Mouthcoating tannins and powerful acidity bloom on the palate, where black-cherry-laced chocolate-cake flavors rise to an espresso bean finish.
This Peyronie family cru bourgeois estate is one of the rare properties in Pauillac that is not a classified growth. That alone makes it a good value. The wine comes from vines close to Pichon Baron in the south of the appellation. This juicy black-currant flavored wine is still very young, full of its tannins and dark character. With its structure and acidity, the wine will age well. Drink from 2022.
This phenomenal bottling from the winemaking team of Mike Sinor and Nathan Carlson hits the nose with a judicious touch of vanilla-laced buttercream as well as scorched lemon slices and orange peels. It's playfully lithe on the palate, with just a touch of oak warmth, racy acidity, chalky grip and a faint hint of dill. It's great for now, but will age with nutty style thanks to the balancing tensions.
This Picolit is light in color and lean in form but it does do a very good job of presenting elegant aromas and nuances. You'll recognize sweet honey, almond, orange zest and subdued herbal tones. It's young and fresh in spirit.
This pink-colored wine comes from the Domaine owned by the Rabarin family for over 150 years. It is deliciously crisp, bright with acidity and with a tannic edge that comes from the Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. This is a refreshing bright wine that is ready to drink.
This pink-colored wine is attractively fruity with crisp acidity and fresh red currant fruits. It's light, bright and soft with a lightly creamy texture.
This pink blend of 64% Grenache, 31% Syrah and 6% Marsanne offers the expected array of bubblegum, pink roses, peach, watermelon and cool steel aromas on the nose. It's wound nice and tight on the palate, with warm notes of strawberry and bubblegum emerging on the midpalate, leveled by lemon-skin tartness and a chalky tension.
This pink blend of 66% Merlot and 34% Cabernet Sauvignon simply stood heads above other roses in its flight. Light plum and strawberry juice aromas meet with yeastyness on the nose, while the palate combines a prominent acidity with an extremely chalky mouthfeel. Light raspberry, bubblegum and squeezed mandarin flavors complete the experience.
This pink blend of Mourvèdre and Grenache shows rosy aromas as well as a bitter orange scent and yeasty qualities. The palate is light in both flavor and texture but makes for a refreshing hot day sipper.
This pink Garnacha feels good and plump yet lacks the concentration of a great rosé. It has cherry Lifesaver, vitamin and cheese-like aromas and yeasty citrus flavors that are mild through the finish.
This pink stands out for its Ruby Red grapefruit aromas, backed by touches of orange peel and chalk. The mouthfeel is grippy and energetic, recalling again a grapefruit's juice and pith. A perfect breakfast wine.
This pink sweet sparkler (made with fragrant Moscato grapes) opens with an intense bouquet of raspberry, jasmine and honey. It's a blush wine with a soft, foamy finish.
This pink sweet sparkling wine opens with sweet notes of raspberry, vanilla cream, cinnamon and a touch of white pepper. The smooth mouthfeel is supported by fizzy effervescence. Incrocio Manzoni 13.0.25 was created in the 1930's by Italian professor Luigi Mazoni and is a cross between Raboso del Piave and Moscato d'Amburgo grapes.
This pink wine is made from Grenache grapes. It's fresh, clean and spunky on the nose, with good acidity cutting into what would otherwise be a thick body. Flavors of plum, cherry and citrus make this a solid rosado from Mexico.
This pink wine smells of red-apple skins. The palate is low on acidity but not entirely dull. Dry briny lightly bitter flavors don't show a lot of fruit, while this is pulpy on the finish.
This pink wine, originally started by figure skater Peggy Fleming as a benefit for breast cancer research, shows peach, nectarine, strawberry flesh and cotton candy aromas. There is a touch of sweetness to the sip, with baked orange and lemon curd flavors.
This Pinot's acidity, tannins and juvenile fruit suggest time in the cellar. It's rich in raspberries, plums and cherries, with the interesting note of sweet heirloom tomato you sometimes get from Carneros. The narrow window of drinkability is 2015–2017.
This Pinot's immediate lusciousness belies its complexity. Your first impression is of ripe raspberries and cherries that taste like they were baked into a pie. Then layers of minerals, mushrooms, cola and earthier fruits like persimmons and rhubarbs appear, all made brisk by amazing acidity and finishing bone dry. Lovely now and over the next six years, after an hour or two in the decanter.
This Pinot's parts haven't found each other yet. There's big, ripe raspberry and cherry fruit, sweet, toasty oak, brisk acids and firm tannins, yet they form an unruly confederation. Stash this in the cellar until at least 2020.
This Pinot bears only the simple regional Carneros appellation, but it has the rich texture and complex flavors of a vineyard-designated wine. Absolutely delicious, with raspberry, red cherry, mocha and red-licorice flavors that go on and on into a long, spicy finish. Drink this lovely wine over the next few years.
This Pinot Bianco boasts elegance and structure. It leads with aromas of white flowers, yellow apples and a hint of toasted oak that all carry over to the palate alongside crisp acidity. It has a nutty finish and nice length.
This Pinot Blanc is broader and fuller-bodied than M-C's Rieslings, but not as minerally or complex. It's easy to drink, featuring exotic notes of mango and banana balanced by citrus blossom and chalk.
This Pinot Blanc is creamy smooth and soft, with a delicious line in peach acidity and lively green fruits. Crisp, ready to drink, and very fresh.
This Pinot Blanc with a small percentage of Pinot Grigio (20%) offers a confectionary aroma that's inviting at first, the wine otherwise crisp, simple and ready to drink now.
This Pinot certainly has lots of concentrated fruit, with an intensity of cherry and raspberry jam, pomegranates and cola. It's also well oaked, to judge from the strong layer of buttered cinnamon toast. Feels strong and indelicate now, with a punch of acidity, but could mellow over the next 2–3 years.
This Pinot comes from a small block in the estate vineyard, on the Napa side of Carneros. Right out of the bottle, it's very dry and acidic, marked by fresh, jammy raspberry and cherry flavors. All indications point to the cellar, except for a funkiness that may become more pronounced with age. It's risky, but try holding through 2016.
This Pinot could certainly withstand a few years of aging, but there's really no reason to cellar it. It's all about rich, ripe, flamboyant fruit in the way of cherries, persimmons and raspberries. For all the forward fruitiness, the wine finishes dry and firm in acids and tannins.
This Pinot delivers aromas of rose petals, red currants, eucalyptus, rhubarb and crushed cranberries. The palate is driven by herbs, from marjoram to thyme, and layered across a tight and lively base of fresh-squeezed, tart cranberry juice.
This Pinot does not shy away from some sharp, slightly bitter herbal flavors, but keeps them in balance against a core of tart cranberry fruit. It's well made and solid, with medium-long persistence.
This Pinot falls on the lean side of the fence, with firm acid and tannins and mature flavors reminiscent of old-style European wines. It has a slightly tawny color at the edge, a brick color in the middle, earthy-oaky aromas, and lean cranberry and cedar flavors.
This Pinot Grigio from a new producer in the cool Adelaide Hills starts off a little herbal—almost minty—then delivers a full-bodied, weighty palate experience. The flavors are fairly neutral, making it more about flesh and weight than well delineated flavors, but that should help make it more versatile with food. Drink now. Imported by Tom Eddy Wines.
This Pinot Grigio from northern Italy has good density and direct aromas of honey, peach and grapefruit that make for a well balanced ensemble. The wine is fresh and clean and would pair with grilled calamari or Thai mango shrimp.
This Pinot Grigio from northern Italy offers an easy aromatic lineup of mature melon, chopped herbs and spring flowers. It's thick and slightly sweet in the mouth with a heavy, fat feel on the close.
This Pinot Grigio from Trentino—part of which is barrel aged—offers aromas of pear, apple, oak and flint. The linear palate delivers restrained lemon peel, apple and oak sensations in a lean but elegant style.
This Pinot Grigio has a slightly greenish hue and fragrant aromas of citrus, white flower and exotic fruit. You can really taste its sunny Sicilian roots: the wine has light density but is fuller and softer than wines from the north.
This Pinot Grigio has an intriguing copper color thanks to prolonged skin contact. It's dominated by assertive oak notes, with light fruit flavors that take second stage to the astringent wood sensations.
This Pinot Grigio is a bit more fragrant and floral in essence with aromas of stone fruit and peach blossom. It has a fresh, almost piquant edge but it also has that characteristic watery mouthfeel you'll likely encounter with this variety.
This Pinot Grigio is crisply acidic and dry, with exotic flavors of yellow apricots, tangerines and spicy golden mangoes. It shows toasty, caramelized notes. Refreshing now as a cocktail sipper.
This Pinot Grigio is faintly coppery in color (trendy in some circles), with slightly floral and citrus overtones. It's modest in alcohol, but reasonably plump on the midpalate, delivering melon and apple-skin flavors before finishing crisp and refreshing. Drink now.
This Pinot Grigio is okay for common purposes, but it's a pretty dull wine. It's on the border between dry and off-dry, and soft in texture, with sugary citrus fruit and herb flavors.
This Pinot Grigio offers aromas of fragrant white flower and citrus zest. Its linear, elegant palate shows tangerine, pear, lemon drop and a hint of crystallized ginger alongside bright acidity.
This Pinot Grigio Reserve boasts a creamy and attractive mouthfeel that is accented by fresh aromas of peach, citrus, grapefruit, yellow flower and toasted almond. It is an immensely food-friendly wine that would pair well with creamy pasta or baked fish.
This Pinot Gris from Switzerland has aromas of white flowers, green apple and lemon pith. In the mouth, there are flavors of lemon curd and guava. It has medium body on the palate with a clean finish.
This Pinot Gris has a lot of character. The color shows a slight suggestion of pink (it comes from a gris or semi-colored grape after all), the flavors are like white peach, the balance is fresh and crisp, and the aftertaste is tangy. It's a very versatile lunch or dinner wine.
This Pinot Gris has aromas of wax, red apple, underripe white peach and citrus. The white peach note becomes more dominant on the easygoing palate, and it leads to a mineral-like tang that lingers onto the slightly yeasty finish.
This Pinot Gris is fermented on the skins, then aged in neutral oak for a year-and-a-half. It's a dusty rose in hue, and its tart rhubarb fruit is speckled with peppery spice. The time on skins seems to have amped up the tannins past optimal balance. This is a one-of-a-kind style of Pinot Gris.
This Pinot Gris is marching to the beat of its own drum, with some funky aromas and toast notes along with lemon and pear fruit. It's a tad volatile in the mouth but has some nice depth of flavor and a lingering cashew finish. Likeable for its originality.
This Pinot Gris is simple, streamlined and to the point. Green apple and lemon driven, the palate is light bodied and crisp with a persistent acidity.
This Pinot Gris offers a distinctive mix of flavors, with apple, pear, pink grapefruit and sweet Meyer lemon all in the tangle of fruit. It's sappy and soft, but runs afoul of some mousy, bacterial flavors in the finish. Except for that, it would score much better.
This Pinot has a cutting edge of citrusy acidity. On the plus side, it's also silky, with pleasant cherry candy, cola and oak flavors.
This Pinot has an admirable delicacy, with fairly low alcohol and crisp acids keeping it silky, brisk and elegant in the mouth. The all-important flavors suggest raspberries and cola, with a long, spicy finish. It's a little simple now, but could gain traction after some time in the bottle.
This Pinot has everything going for it. It's dry and tart in acidity, with a silky texture, yet rich in raspberries, cola, mint and sandalwood. It's not one of Testarossa's more expensive single-vineyard wines, but it's close to them, with a classic evocation of coastal Pinot Noir.
This Pinot is a full, fragrant, fetching wine with spongy citrus and cherry fruit, underscored with leesy minerality. It's ready for immediate enjoyment, and should be consumed now through 2020.
This Pinot is a little heavy in the mouth. It's front-loaded with raspberry and cherry jam fruit, while plenty of oak slathers it with butterscotch and caramel. It's not an ager, so decant and drink up.
This Pinot is a little tough in the mouth, but the tart red cherry, cranberry, strawberry jam and sandalwood flavors are complex and enjoyable. Give it a few hours in the decanter and drink up.
This Pinot is all about brisk acidity and ripe, jammy fruit. The flavors of raspberries and cherries, enriched with oak, are direct and luscious, and will drink well now with a great tuna or beef steak.
This Pinot is all about fruit, which is both its strength and its limitation. Raspberries, strawberries, persimmons are there, alongside caramelized, buttery oak. The finish is tannic and dry. Drink by 2016, after decanting.
This Pinot is aromatic; rhubarb, dried raspberry, rubber, prickly herbal notes and spice scents all vie for attention. This is solid and creamy in feel, with cutting acidity and herbal, lightly leafy flavors of dried, spicy red fruits. A lightly herbal tasting finish is the finale.
This Pinot is consistent with the winery's previous bottlings over the years. It's a solid wine, with gentle tannins and tart acidity framing cranberry, cola and herb flavors. Drink now.
This Pinot is crisp and delicately structured, with a silky texture. But the cola, raspberry and red currant flavors are thin, leading to a fast finish. Drink now.
This Pinot is dry in style and tart with acidity, along with flavors of cranberries, cherries, sweet tobacco and oak. Gritty tannins and inconsistently ripened fruit lend this wine a common touch. It's certainly not an ager, but it is an appealing wine to drink now.
This Pinot is dry, silky and light-bodied. It shows pleasant raspberry, cola and red currant flavors that finish clean and racy, and the alcohol level is a refreshingly low 13.5% by volume. It requires no aging, so drink up.
This Pinot is dry, silky and simple, with cherry pie flavors. There's a vegetal, green streak that's disagreeable.
This Pinot is from the winery's only Eola-Amity Hills AVA vineyard. The palate brings distinctive herbal accents around brambly berry-fruit flavors. Rich seams of caramel and chocolate smooth the finish.
This Pinot is gigantic in raspberry, cherry and cola fruit, and its silky texture and crisp acidity make it particularly drinkable. On the other hand, it's rather forward and one-dimensional. Give it a good, long decant, and you might even want to pour the glasses an hour before drinking. Now–2015.
This Pinot is joyous in fresh berry fruit aromas and flavors, from wild strawberry to taut cherry, the fruit buoyed by lush, velvety tannins and generous acidity. Pretty on the nose and tongue, it discloses a trace of vanilla on the clean, distinct finish.
This Pinot is lightly peppery with fruit flavors of watermelon and strawberry. They're expanded with generous skin phenolic flavors from 50% whole cluster fermentation, then softened with aging in neutral oak. Though a light wine overall, it's complex and holds your attention.
This Pinot is lovely for two reasons. One, it exhibits the tremendous balance and richness of a well-grown Santa Rita Hills Pinot. Secondly, the superb 2012 vintage makes it especially noteworthy. The raspberry and cherry fruit is ripe and fruity, and yet the finish is absolutely dry and complex. So good now, it's hard to recommend cellaring it, but you should, for up to eight years. A new brand from Margerum.
This Pinot is lovely—it's dry, silky and moderate in alcohol, yet rich in fruit, with raspberry and cherry jam, tobacco and oak flavors. Give it some time in the decanter and drink now.
This Pinot is made in a lighter style, but it's complex and interesting. It's marked by dryness and acidic crispness. The raspberry, cola and persimmon flavors are enriched with a touch of sweet, smoky oak. Seems best now, but it could surprise over the next six years.
This Pinot is marked with candied raspberry and cherry flavors, along with oaky vanilla and toast notes. It finishes rather soft.
This Pinot is not hiding behind anything. It has lots of natural-tasting fruit aromas and flavors without overt oak. Flavors recall cherry, berry and rhubarb; the wine tastes firm and moderately tannic, and has medium to full body. Beautifully balanced, it should improve through 2018.
This Pinot is on the thin side, rather stingy in fruit. But it's dry and crisp and clean enough to be called elegant. Shows modest cherryskin flavors that are generously spiced.
This Pinot is one-dimensional, although it originated in the famous Marimar Estate vineyard. The fruit is there, in the form of cherries, pomegranates and cola, but the structure is lacking, leading to serious doubts as to the wine's ageability.
This Pinot is pretty darned good for the price. It's voluptuous in sweetly ripe raspberries, cherries and brown sugar, but has a good spine of acidity for balance. With production of 80,000 cases, it's a fine example of the art of blending.
This Pinot is pretty extracted, but the flavors are addictively good, offering a cornucopia of raspberries, cherries, blackberries, tangerines and cola, with complex nuances of sassafras, orange Pekoe tea, cola and dusty spices. It's a little soft, but silky and rich in tannins, a classic Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir.
This Pinot is pure California in its ripe fruitiness. It's explosive in cherry and raspberry jam flavors, with sandalwood and dusty spice notes, and also displays crisp, cool-climate acidity. A delicious wine to drink now.
This Pinot is quite tart, giving the cherry and cola flavors a sweet and sour candy taste. It's nicely dry and spicy, but that acidity really cuts.
This Pinot is rich and dense in rustic cherry and red currant flavors. It also feels quite warm in alcohol, which makes it almost taste like Grenache. Drink it over the next six years.
This Pinot is ripe in jammy cherry fruit, and it has a smoky, buttery richness from oak. But it's a little soft and heavy for the variety, which is perhaps to be expected given its Alexander Valley origin.
This Pinot is simple and on the soft, heavy side, with jammy blackberry, cherry, cola and spice flavors. It's basically dry, and would benefit from higher acidity.
This Pinot is so fabulous, it's easy to fall in love with. It comes as no surprise that this wine hails from the wonderful Talley-Rincon Vineyard. Light and silky, it's bright in citrusy acids. Dry on the palate, but with juicy raspberry and cherry flavors, and hints of mineral, spice and smoky oak for complexity. What a nice wine for drinking now.
This Pinot is starting to lose its primary fruit, and it's gradually becoming mushroomy and earthy. But the raspberry and cherry flavors are still plentiful, and the finish is dry and clean. It's an interesting, complex wine to drink now.
This Pinot is too tart and tannic to drink now, though it has great potential. You have to search for the fruit, but it's there, in deeply hidden layers of cherries and red currants. Dry and stubborn now, but don't give up. It will reward cellaring for a minimum of six years.
This Pinot kicks off with a burst of mouthwatering lime acidity, before flavors of cherry, cranberry and cola settle in. The palate finishes richly with some new French oak, making it a great companion with steak.
This Pinot Meunier-dominated wine makes great use of the grape's natural fruitiness and softness. It is ripe with swathes of acidity that have been tempered by the three years of reserve wines in this nonvintage blend. It is ready to drink.
This Pinot Nero is neutral on the nose with distant tones of small berry and violet. There's more power in the mouth, thanks to the long and silky nature of the tannins.
This Pinot Nero opens with candied aromas of raspberry, citrus and wild strawberry, followed by a lean but fresh feel on the palate.
This Pinot Noir-based rosé offers youthful passion-fruit aromas tempered by hints of red berries—raspberries and strawberries—and even a touch of watermelon. Off-dry (7.9 g/L of residual sugar) on the finish.
This Pinot Noir-dominant sparkler is nutty and perfumed, its honeysuckle scents bringing lightness and brightness to a meaty core of body and weight.
This Pinot Noir-heavy sparkler opens with aromas of briny citrus and bready yeast. The palate is fresh and low on weight, with a dominating flavor of pink grapefruit. Overall, this is basic but easy to drink.
This Pinot Noir-Syrah blend opens up with aromas of cherry compote, red currant, pencil shavings and roasted beets. It's extremely silky on the palate, with purple fruit, even blueberries present. The alcohol is not out of balance, thanks to a touch of bitterness.
This Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blend is a little rough in the mouth, with scoury bubbles. It's rich and ripe in raspberries, strawberries and limes, with a yeasty edge and plenty of acidity. Ready to drink now.
This Pinot Noir from the Alexandra subregion of Central Otago starts off with some interesting aromaas of mocha, scorched tomato leaf and cherry, then delivers earthy, sous bois flavors. Yet the mouthfeel is spot on, supple and silky. Drink up.
This Pinot Noir is drinkable now for its soft deliciousness. It's pretty oaky, but it offers plenty of raspberry, cherry and spice flavors that are wrapped into a silky texture.
This Pinot Noir is from the far or “true” Sonoma Coast, near Annapolis, north of the new Fort Ross-Seaview appellation. It shows its origin in the brisk acidity and delicacy of mouthfeel, as well as the fantastic range of wild red berry, cola, pine, nettle and white pepper flavors that change from second to second. New oak brings toasty, vanilla complexities and wood tannins. This is a delicious wine now, but will age gracefully for at least eight years.
This Pinot Noir is raisiny on the nose but maintains a fresh outlook. The palate runs heavy, almost to the point of feeling flat, while the flavor profile offers ripe berry, cherry and raisin notes. It's plump and soft on the finish, with a resin-like taste. Only 48 cases produced.
This Pinot Noir is rich and elegant, but somewhat straightforward with flavors of raspberry and cherry wrapped in a pleasant coating of smoky oak. It's less ageable than Truchard's 2010 vintage so decant and drink now.
This Pinot Noir is so rich in fruit and oak, it tastes like a melted dessert tart. Wows with raspberry and cherry jam, vanilla bean, bacon, buttered cinnamon toast and smoky wood flavors, wrapped into a light, airy texture. Drink it now with a terrific steak.
This Pinot Noir is softer and more approachable than many of Swan's other new releases, so it's probably not as age worthy. But it feels smooth on the palate, and the flavors of raspberry cream, cherry pie and buttered toast are luscious.
This Pinot Noir is thin and simple, but it does have some pretty spice, raspberry candy and persimmon flavors. Tastes fairly sweet, but crisp acidity provides balance.
This Pinot Noir is typical to Etude's characteristic style— full bodied, tannic and deliciously extracted with black raspberry, cranberry, orange zest and oak flavors. It's not particularly ageable, as other vintages have been, but has a softly rich, drink-me-now appeal.
This Pinot Noir may become more rich and charming in coming years, but right now it's fresh, tart and jammy in raspberries and cherries. It's also a bit heavy, almost as if a bit of Grenache found its way into the blend.
This Pinot Noir needs a few years in the cellar to mellow, although you can decant it now to let it breathe. It's very rich in cherries, raspberries, licorice and sweet, smoky oak, with a soft, silky texture. Shows a real sense of sophistication.
This Pinot Noir offers plenty of varietal pleasure. It's dry and crisp in acidity, with cherry skin, red currant and cola flavors.
This Pinot Noir opens with a soft intensity of raspberry liqueur and cherry tart with a sprinkling of orange peel. Unfined and unfiltered, it's subdued and structured, an intriguing example of the dual power and finesse behind Morning Dew Ranch, Burt Williams's vineyard in Philo.
This Pinot Noir project from the Napa Valley's Hall family starts with dense and inky core aromas of ripe raspberry and black tea, with a touch of vanilla. Once sipped, the flavors verge toward black cherry and blackberry, with very liqueur-like chocolate and a pronounced and lasting spice element.
This Pinot Noir shows tart, Monterey-derived acidity, but it has enough raspberry and cherry flavors to make it enjoyable. It feels light and silky.
This Pinot Noir stands out in a flight of German reds for its slightly fleshy, concentrated fruit quality. Bristling with acidity and a delicate layer of tannins, it's delicately structured but elegantly fruity, with hints of dried cherry and plum accented by rose and potpourri notes.
This Pinot Noir tastes vegetal and harsh, with weirdly sweet oak flavors.
This Pinot Noir, named for a particular soil type in the Willamette valley, is scented strongly of the lumber smell you get at a building supplies store. There is a simple but pleasing layer of strawberry/raspberry fruit hidden in the wine's core. Perhaps a year or two of bottle age will pull things together.
This Pinot offers a substantial amount of big, concentrated fruit, from plum to ripe, almost baked cherry, the kind you'd find in a pie. Pronounced oak underlies a sizable amount of tannin structure, with savory spice and earthy leather layered into the wine.
This Pinot offers bright tart cherry fruit and earthy spice in good proportion and is softly textured. From the remote Mendocino Ridge and aged in entirely French oak, it's still young and exhibiting plenty of oaky toast on the finish.
This Pinot overcomes a somewhat murky appearance by offering an interesting mix of earth, tomato leaf, pepper and granite, along with very tart red fruits. It's textural and chewy, with substantial tannins, but it's also flavorful and dense, and for the relatively modest price it shows some real muscle.
This Pinot saw one-quarter new oak, which contributed an undertone of burnt toast. The spicy berry fruit is accented by a cola note, and the wine has a friendly, mouth-filling roundness. This is perfect for near term drinking.
This Pinot seems to float weightlessly on the palate, yet the flavors sink in instantly and dazzle. Suggestions of raspberries and red cherries come spiced in white pepper and cinnamon, with richer levels of Dr. Pepper cola, mocha and red licorice, all highlighted with the most perfect acidity. It's easy to fall in love with this wine and drink it now, but it can develop interesting complexities through 2020. The winery is Oregon-based and has a good history with Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
This Pinot shows basic varietal character, displaying ripe, opulent raspberry and cherry pie flavors, with a touch of toasty oak. It's soft enough to drink now.
This Pinot shows lots of style and classy elegance. Just past three years of age, it's still delicious in raspberries and cherries, but it's beginning to soften and show earthier, more complex notes of mushrooms and herbs. With a silky texture and fine acidity, it should continue its bottle path for another six years, at least.
This Pinot shows the acidity of its coastal origins, and also is bone dry, with low alcohol that gives it a delicate texture. Flavor-wise, it's pretty thin, with watery cola and cherry jam notes.
This Pinot shows the early promise of the exciting 2012 vintage. While it's just a basic appellation wine, it's rich in raspberries, cherries, blueberries and persimmons, with the fruit nicely balanced by crisp acidity. Enjoy this ripe wine now through 2016.
This Pinot shows the ripe, sunny richness that a good vintage in California can coax out of the grapes. It's enormous in raspberries and cherries, with plenty of new French oak bringing smoky, buttered toast complexities.
This Pinot starts out tight, but after some time in the glass opens up to reveal black raspberry, mushroom, cola and exotic spice notes. It's dry, yet silky, in the mouth. A pretty wine, and for the price, a comparative bargain.
This Pinot takes a few minutes to open up, yet when it does it smells like dusting polish and Dr. Pepper. The palate is more subtle with a good lick of acidity and chewy tannins finishing on dark cherry fruit. It's not the most typical example of this region or grape variety, but it has its charms nonetheless.
This Pinot tastes so oaky, it's like chewing on barrel staves. Notes of vanilla, buttered toast and the creamy-sweet flavor of oak sap completely overwhelm what otherwise seems like a good wine. This is a real outlier among MacPhail's other 2010 Pinot Noirs.
This Pinot tastes warm, soft and seemingly sweet—like a cherry cola drink without the carbonation—making it feel syrupy.
This Pinot tastes young and undeveloped, but it should go places. Evidence of its youth lies in the big tannins and acids and the way the fruit flavors are so fresh and primary. Although it's delicious in berries and currants, it just hasn't pulled together. It's so balanced it should benefit from 4–5 years in a cellar.
This Pinot, from Black Kite's highest elevation block right beneath a stand of redwood trees, is light and nuanced, earthy, buoyant with acidity and gorgeously textured, with an exotic thread of spice on the finish.
This Pinot, from the cool climes of the unsung region of North Canterbury, is downright sultry. This shows a dense nose of blue fruit, cherry, chocolate, baking spice and violets, while the palate slinks with tart cherry and earth, hugged by elegant, fine grained tannins and a long, chocolatey finish. Drink now–2022.
This Pinot, one of a few that hail from Carmel Valley, combines instant drinkability with a certain complexity. The wine is softly approachable in ripe raspberry purée, cherry pie filling, cola and anise flavors, wrapped into a delightfully silky texture. Drink now.
This Pinot, which was grown on the Hanzell estate, is described by the winery as a barrel selection made to drink now. Yet it shows tight tannins and an astringency that effectively masks the ripe cherry and pomegranate fruit flavors. You're better off cellaring this wine for a few years.
This Pinotage-based blend, with 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, opens with intense aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and plum that are hit with earthy accents of tree bark, balsamic herbs and cigar. The fruity concentration continues through to the rich, plush palate, framed by bold tannins that lend overall balance and structure. Final notes of cocoa nib, toasted spice and charred earth grace the long finish.
This Pinotage-dominant blend is a bit closed to begin, but opens up after some time in the glass to reveal enticing notes of dark berries, plums and whole vanilla beans. Medium tannins and jammy, crushed-berry fruit flavors flesh out the palate, ending on a textured plum-skin flavor.
This pioneering Alsatian-inspired winery always amazes with this distinctive and approachable bottling. Bright botanical aromas of mandarin orange rind, honeysuckle and pear give way to a zesty palate full of preserved citrus and marmalade flavors, all set against a firm structure and racy acidity. The finish—which is bone dry—opens with nectarine notes, then sails off with a flash of herbs.
This pioneering Oregon producer makes a fine, fruity, yeasty sparkling wine from 100% Chardonnay grapes. It’s crisp and lively in the mouth, with medium bubbles and a fresh, citrusy finish.
This pioneering Otago winery has turned out a medium-bodied, sturdily built Riesling loaded with notes of baked apples and spice. Although there may be a touch of residual sugar, the primary impression on the lingering finish is of crisp acids, not sugary sweetness.
This pioneering winery is all about integration of aromas and flavors, with this bottling showing rounded notes of honey, macadamia nut, salted peach and candied lemongrass on the nose. The blend of 72% Roussanne, 23% Grenache Blanc and 5% Picpoul Blanc is light and delicate on the sip and refreshing in structure, with crisp yellow-apple-skin flavors.
This pitch-black Malbec opens with aromas of raisin, blackberry, cassis and vanilla. The palate exhibits a tight muscular grip, while flavors of mocha, chocolate, prune and cassis finish with complex hints of leather and salt. Drink this massive offering from 2018–2026.
This pitch-black Malbec smells like prune juice. That overripe character also shows on the overweight palate that deals saturated flavors of fig, raisin and prune. The finish doesn't display a lot of balance or freshness. Two samples tasted with identical results.
This pitch-dark Malbec from Cafayate is concentrated and heavy on the nose, with grapy blackberry aromas that are doing their best to stay fresh and clean. A full-force, grapy palate deals chocolaty black-fruit flavors in front of a warm finish where toasty oak and graphite notes come onto the scene.
This pitch-dark, fully extracted Malbec from La Consulta in Mendoza's Uco Valley delivers blackberry, black pepper and brushy herbal aromas on what amounts to a massive, spot-on bouquet. Big, chewy and tannic on the palate, with earthy, roasted flavors of blackberry, prune, savory spices and raw oak, this finishes meaty, slightly salty and strong, with wild herb and black-fruit flavors. Drink through 2022.
This playful and punchy wine stands out from this producer's often more reserved style. Aromas of concentrated pomegranate and hibiscus team with cola and vanilla on the nose. The palate is quite joyous, with candied cranberry and raspberry and even a touch of soda-like Hawaiian Punch.
This playful blend of air-dried white grapes (Prosecco and Incrocio Manzoni) offers simple aromas of honey and peach backed by some dried hay and citrus. Made with organically-grown grapes, this dessert wine is sweet and thick on the close.
This playful Moscato offers simple tones of tangerine skin, white acacia flower and honey. Luscious ripeness gives the wine a broad and heavy feel in the mouth.
This playful rosé is marked by a saccharine, cotton candy quality that will remind you of cherry cough drops or raspberry lollipop. It's a simple, no-fuss, beautifully packaged wine with a subtle touch of bitter astringency on the close.
This playful, drink-now blend of 64% Counoise and 36% Cinsault is great for those seeking to try lesser known Rhône varieties. Rose petals, plum blossoms, hibiscus and gamy notes entertain the nose. Anise seeds power the tip of the palate before red fruits and purple flowers play into a quick, easy finish.
This pleasant and straightforward Chardonnay comes in a hock bottle for no apparent reason. It's accented with pine needle aromas and flavors of resin and crisp apple. Forward and fruity, the time in barrel seems to have mostly just rounded it off, without adding noticeable flavors.
This pleasant blush offers interesting flavors of raspberries, cherries, vanilla and pepper, and is quite dry and crisp. It's also low in alcohol, with only 13%, which makes it light in body and easy to drink.
This pleasant bubbly seems sweet and crisp, featuring flavors of raspberry, strawberry, vanilla and yeast. With a rich copper color, it's an affordable sparkling wine to drink with sushi.
This pleasant fruit cocktail of a wine smells like pears and peaches and tastes equally fruity, ripe and smooth. It's medium bodied and soft in texture, yet fresh and clean on the finish.
This pleasant Gavi has a delicate fragrance of white spring flowers and flavors that recall pear, green apple and citrus. Its crisp acidity leaves the palate feeling clean and refreshed, making it an ideal apéritif.
This pleasant Grenache has the weight and texture of Pinot Noir. It's light and silky in the mouth, with moderate acohol and savory acidity. Shows cherry, cola and herb flavors for drinking now.
This pleasant Merlot is a little tough and gritty, but it's rich and candied in blackberry and cherry, roasted almond and vanilla flavors. Give it some time to breathe in the glass.
This pleasant Merlot/Cabernet blend brings ripe cherry fruit flavors that border on raisiny. It's forward, round, soft and fruity, with the Merlot definitely dominating the front, while the Cabernet adds a bit of weight and substance to the finish.
This pleasant Pinot Gris has melon fruit flavors with a hint of kiwi. Fresh, and ready for near-term enjoyment.
This pleasant Sauvignon from Friuli shows typical varietal aromas of tomato vine and cantaloupe. The palate offers green melon and spice flavors and has a crisp, clean finish.
This pleasant white offers delicate aromas of citrus blossom and orchard fruit. The easygoing palate has green apple and peach alongside bright acidity. It would work well for everyday occasions or informal parties.
This pleasant, easy-drinking wine from five different Pinot Noir clones mixes citrus and berry flavors. It was aged in 30% new oak and is nicely balanced, with firm acidity.
This pleasant, easy-to-drink Chardonnay features subtle oak notes framing white peach and sweet-corn flavors. It's medium bodied, with a tender texture and ample pineapple and pear on the finish. Drink now.
This pleasant, fruity wine has lemon-lime crispness. Hints of apricot flavor prove the Alvarinho grape is far from its northern Portuguese homeland. Drink now.
This pleasant, medium-bodied blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon features ample flavors of passion fruit and pink grapefruit. It's not complex, but over the next year or so it will wash down seafood just fine.
This pleasant, medium-bodied wine stays 11 months in French oak (30% new), so there's plenty of barrel influence. The cherry and herb notes manage to stand up to the wood treatment, which adds a layer of mocha flavor and a touch of bitterness. Drink now–2017.
This pleasantly perfumed wine has some acidity, jammy red fruits and soft tannins. It feels very rounded and smooth, with a structure that is totally integrated into the velvet texture. Drink from 2016.
This pleasing blend of Pinot Noir from estate-grown fruit is light and undeniably pretty. Rhubarb and raspberry flavors are backed with vivid acids. It's a wine from a challenging vintage, and the native yeast ferment seems to have contributed to its length and detail.
This pleasing effort is light but interesting. It first introduces flavors of strawberry and rhubarb, with a dash of pepper. A whiff of root vegetables does not interfere with the overall enjoyment, and a lick of chocolate lifts the finish.
This pleasing quaffer blends five white grapes, capturing the floral top notes of Riesling and Gewürztraminer, the herbal spice of Sauvignon Blanc and the tangy fruit of Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Hellfire is the second label of Phelps Creek.
This plummy, dusty red wine is simple and straightforward in its approach to tannin and oak. Offered at a fair price it should please a wide range of palates.
This plump-textured blend of Roussanne, Marsanne and Viognier features aromas and flavors of apricot, melon, mango and ginger. Drink it over the next nine months for its appealing, forward fruit nature.
This plump and fruit-driven Barbaresco offers nuances of ripe cherry and forest berry backed by lingering tones of licorice, vanilla, dark chocolate and clove. The wine is distinguished by a precise and focused mouthfeel that is shaped by acidity and firm tannins.
This plump blend of Cab Sauvignon, Merlot and Cab Franc is raw in places but carries a pretty tune of blueberry, spice and smoked ham. The deep ruby color is glorious and the wine ends with firm tannins.
This plump Brunello offers layered aromas of black plum, mature berry, vanilla, and balsamic notes with a hint of leather. The ripe, one-dimensional palate first reveals rich, sweet black cherry, black pepper and cocoa but concludes rather abruptly with a drying finish.
This plump Pinot Noir uses 20% new French oak to deliver nutmeg, gingerbread spice and licorice aromas. Black cherry and raspberry round out the nose and integrate on the palate, which is hearty and rich in Christmas spice and crushed rock notes. An excellent choice for anyone seeking a full-figured Pinot.
This plump Rosso di Montalcino offers ripe, succulent fruit notes of black cherry, blueberry and fresh plum, rounded by toasted espresso and almond. All that results in a soft, round and smooth mouthfeel.
This plump, creamy-textured Riesling shows plenty of flattering peach and lime fruit, but also enough mint and slate that it avoids being simply fruity. Balanced toward the dry side of the Riesling spectrum, so it should prove versatile at the table.
This plump, dry-style Pinot Gris features plenty of fruit, which ranges from apple to pear and through to pineapple. The finish comes with a cool, refreshing note and ample length.
This plump, dry rosé features hints of wet stone, strawberry and barely ripe melon. It's vibrant, refreshing and an ideal thirst-quencher for the warm months ahead.
This plump, easy-drinking wine offers plenty of ripe fruit. Lovely pink grapefruit or gooseberry notes lead the way, buttressed by passion fruit shadings. No doubt it's a crowd-pleaser.
This plump, fruity expression of Merlot from southern Tuscany shows great intensity. It feels soft and velvety smooth, and it offers cherry, chocolate and lightly toasted almond notes on the finish.
This plump, medium-bodied blend of Grenache blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Clairette and Bourboulenc features notes reminiscent of ginger, nectarine and melon, then finishes with fresh, zesty citrus. Drink it through mid-2018.
This plump, medium-bodied Chardonnay boasts aromas and flavors of smoke and grilled pineapple. It may be a little on the simple side, but it's well done, combining ample varietal character with an appetizing bit of oak.
This plump, medium-bodied Chardonnay shows yellow fruit notes of mirabelle plum, peach and pineapple, all wrapped in a cocoon of woodsmoke. Drink now–2020.
This plump, medium-bodied Pinot Noir lacks for fruit, instead showcasing savory notes of underbrush, smoke and roasted vegetables. Drink up.
This plump, medium-bodied Riesling is off-dry in style but avoids the one-dimensional fruitiness that sometimes plague the genre. Slate and brine notes mark the nose, balanced against peach, apple and citrus flavors.
This plump, medium-bodied rosé features aromas of nectarine and citrus, followed up by flavors of stone fruit, perhaps a hint of cherry and a bit of white chocolate. Then it tightens up again on the finish, turning more citrusy again.
This plump, medium-bodied rosé is a blend of two-thirds Syrah and one-third Mourvèdre. It's a fruit-driven style, driven by hints of peach, cantaloupe and bubble gum, that should have broad appeal.
This plump, medium-bodied rosé offers hints of peach and melon fruit, then finishes long and citrusy. It's very pale salmon in color, with an attractive coppery tint.
This plump, medium-weight Chardonnay features bright, fleshy pineapple flavors that finish clean and crisp. At this price, you could do a lot worse.
This plump, ruby-colored Amarone shows extreme clarity and sharpness thanks to its etched aromas of soya sauce, root beer, toasted cashew and blackberry jam. The best part is that it's a totally drinkable wine without the cloying chewiness you sometimes get with appassimento.
This plump, succulent Riesling offers up scents of honey, ripe pears and even some slate-driven minerality, then follows through on the palate with crisp pear and citrus flavors, underscored by wet stones. Fresh and clean, it's an ideal apéritif, but would also work well with various Asian dishes.
This plump, succulent spätlese starts off with apple and citrus aromas, then delivers intensely mineral flavors reminiscent of crushed vitamins and green apples. Crisp and citrusy on the finish, with a fine sense of poise and balance.
This plump, succulent wine is a solid value. Understated toast frames pineapple and melon in this fruit-driven style. Drink this crisp, appealing quaffer now–2018.
This plush-textured wine effortlessly blends ripe fruit, light spices and touches of oak to glide easily across the palate. While full bodied it is not heavy, but well balanced by good acidity and fine-grained tannins.
This plush and easy expression of Syrah opens with distinct aromas of cured meat, spice, black fruit, white pepper and mature cherry. The wine is smooth and rich with a fine, soft nature of tannins.
This plush Montepulciano is aged 15 months in oak barrel to deliver nicely executed tones of spice and chocolate at the back of blackberry and bold cherry. There is a touch of bitter fruit on the close that will pair next to cheesy lasagna.
This plush Syrah opens with a pretty ruby color and thick, almost syrupy, tones of blueberry and raspberry. The fruit aromas are followed by spice and roasted almonds and the wine is succulent and chewy to the very end.
This plush Tuscan Merlot (from one of Montalcino's best producers of Brunello) opens with soft and round tones of cherry, milk chocolate spice and cassis. There's an elegant richness here that would help pair this wine with game hen or risotto with wild mushrooms. Drink now.
This plush, fruit-driven style of Shiraz displays aromas that resemble a cross between Nilla Wafers and graham crackers spread with berry preserves. The flavors follow along similar lines, underscored by hints of chocolate and coffee on the lingering finish.
This plush, full-bodied Cabernet comes across as slightly Shiraz-like, but still represents good value for $15. Smoky, toasty notes of charred oak frame black olive and cola notes, while some red fruit does peek through from time to time. Drink this ready-to-drink Cabernet through 2020.
This plush, full-bodied wine is already delicious, delivering wave after wave of savory fruit flavor, something like soy-marinated, char-grilled beef. Tannins are supple enough to make this wine drinkable now, yet plentiful enough to suggest ample cellaring potential. Drink now-2030.
This plush, rich expression of Pinot Grigio from northeast Italy would pair with white meat, seafood risotto or spicy dishes from the Far East. The mouthfeel is smooth, rich and long-lasting.
This plush, silky wine is a thrill ride from start to finish. Asphalt and black olive notes on the nose give it a rather rustic edge to start, but purer peppery notes emerge with air. And once past the funk, this shows layers of blueberry and mulberry fruit, maybe even a trace of apricot to go along with savory notes of olive and espresso that glide gracefully through the long, silky finish. Drink now–2025.
This plushly textured and luxuriously ripe wine has soothing baking spice aromas, soft plum and blackberry syrup flavors and a medium body. Moderate tannins boosted by 11% Petite Sirah are well integrated and make for a velvety mouthfeel.
This poised late-harvest blend of Loin de l'Oeil and Sauvignon Blanc tastes lightly honeyed, with an edge of dry botrytis. Perhaps more prominent are the dried apricot and spice notes, along with balanced acidity. Intense and in need of more aging, it will be best from late 2018.
This poised white offers aromas of honeysuckle, pear and flowers, and on the palate, curvy flavors of spice, apples and pear. Charming—serve chilled with cheese, dessert.
This polished 100% Pinot Nero wine opens with enticing red cherry, baking spice, blue flower and balsamic notes. The elegant palate delivers red raspberry and wild strawberry fruit laced with cinnamon. It's nicely balanced, with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Enjoy through 2020.
This polished and harmonious wine has a very deep color showing a ruby hint at the rim. It shows effusive dark cherry and rhubarb aromas, with a sleek texture backed by vibrant acidity. Sophisticated fruit flavors echo red cherry and cranberry, combining a nice tartness with ripeness. Balanced to the lean side and very well structured, it will be best after 2017.
This polished and structured Barolo presents rich fruit and floral scents of black cherry, plum and rose. The dark fruit and spice flavors layered with eucalyptus and balsamic notes are delicious. It's still young, with bracing but ripe tannins that need to soften, but this already shows great complexity.
This polished and well-behaved wine has light spicy, oaky aromas, plenty of good blackberry and cherry flavors and an easygoing texture. It will be a crowd pleaser as well as a host pleaser, with an affordable price.
This polished blend of 80% Pinot Bianco and 20% Chardonnay features aromas of Golden Delicious apple, peach, passion fruit and vanilla that carry over to the palate along with lemon drop. Aging partly in barrels gives it structure, while fresh acidity generates a crisp, clean finish.
This polished Nebbiolo opens with aromas of perfumed berry, violet, tilled soil and grilled herb. The bright, elegant palate doles out sour cherry, star anise and cinnamon framed in sleek tannins and bright acidity. A mineral note energizes the finish. Drink through 2018.
This polished red offers enticing aromas of mature plum, fragrant blue flower, leather and tobacco. The chewy palate is full of juicy wild cherry, black raspberry, cinnamon and licorice alongside soft, silky tannins. There's not much complexity but it's delicious and accessible so enjoy soon.
This polished red opens with aromas of ripe berry, toasted oak and a whiff of blue flower. The vibrant palate delivers juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry and ground black pepper framed between bright acidity and supple tannins.
This polished white opens with an enticing fragrance of honeysuckle, wisteria and orchard fruit. The elegant palate delivers crisp green apple, Bartlett pear and citrus alongside fresh acidity. A light mineral note signals the finish.
This polished wine is accented with small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Juicy, spicy and leathery, it has a smoothness to the texture, the tannins well integrated and permissive of the plummy fruit. The finish has a smoky, mocha tinge.
This polished wine is rich, dry and pretty much as complex as Grenache manages to get in California. With the weight of a silky Pinot Noir, it has pleasant cherry, teriyaki beef and white pepper flavors, with a touch of overripe raisin on the finish.
This polished wine offers an array of ripe cherry, pomegranate, persimmon and cola flavors, making it rich and sweet in the mouth. Yet the finish is entirely dry, and you'll find plenty of scoury acidity to rip through the greasy richness of lamb or duck.
This polished wine opens with delicate white floral aromas and hints of stone fruit. The savory but elegant palate delivers white peach and lemon accented with almond and mineral notes. It's a subtle wine that shows true elegance.
This polished young wine shows the softness and slight herbaceousness that mark many Alexander Valley Cabernets. With ripe blackberry, cherry pie, red currant and mocha flavors, it's a fine wine to drink now and over the next 4–5 years.
This polished, savory Pinot successfully navigated the difficult 2011 vintage, coming out ripe and clean. Vibrant acidity accompanies raspberry, rhubarb and persimmon flavors, while new French oak brings a rich jacket of buttered toast. With refreshingly low alcohol, the wine will age well. Drink now–2019.
This polished, savory red offers aromas and flavors of black raspberry, black currant, flint, graphite, and dried Alpine herbs. Easy drinking and well balanced, it has supple tannins and snappy acidity that make it very approachable now. It ends on a smoky note.
This polished, structured white opens with intense aromas of yellow peach, passion fruit, dried hay and crushed tomato vine. The linear, vibrant palate delivers juicy nectarine, creamy white peach and green melon. It's balanced, with refreshing acidity.
This polished, un-oaked Riesling shows the variety's petrol note riding high over citrus and honeysuckle flavors. It's off dry and brisk in acidity. With alcohol of 12.5% by volume, it's a lovely, delicate wine to drink now.
This pomegranate-pink Cerasuolo from central Italy opens with spicy aromas of chopped herb, cassis and raspberry and ends with cooling acidity on the close. The mouthfeel shows balanced density and smoothness.
This Ponzi-owned vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA (but not listed as such). It's bright and tense, with coiled energy and flavors that do need some hours to breathe open. Poached pear, lemon curd and caramel apple are in the mix. At first a little hot in the finish, it smoothes out and turns into a buttery gem.
This Ponzi-owned vineyard is in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, yet is listed simply as Willamette Valley. Aromatically intense and intriguing, it opens quickly with scents of chamomile, plum, peach and apricot, leading to hints of honey and tea. Aged entirely in neutral oak, this wine fully engages the palate through a lingering, beautifully proportioned and optimally ripe finish.
This popular blend of seven red grapes is dark and strongly flavored with a streak of vanilla. There's nothing fancy here, just big, vanilla-soaked flavors, at an affordable price.
This popular blend, now up to nine grapes sourced from across the Columbia Valley, spends time in 40% new oak. This 2009 lives up to past vintages, though perhaps falling on the lighter end of the scale, with pleasant fruit flavors and a hint of toast.
This popular bottling offers the tropical fruit salad array it always has, with honeydew, cantaloupe, pineapple, guava and banana aromas. Yet, this particular vintage has a refreshing zestiness. Steely structure and lime-like acidity drive the palate, balancing its buttercream and peach custard flavors.
This popular brand's pink version is off dry, lightly fizzy and fruity. It has a strawberry-sherbet character that is attractive and great for summer drinking.
This popular brand's white version is soft and smooth. There are some citrus flavors to give the wine a crisp edge, although the main thrust of the wine is more towards apricot and perfumed green plums. Drink now.
This popular Chardonnay gives you a generous burst of buttered nuts and toast, the flavors many consumers want in their Chardonnays. Not much going on in the fruit department—just clean, tart green apples, with a sharp, acidic edge.
This popular mutt red is supple and smooth. What began as “an accident” in 2001 has become a complete blend, with structure and nuance and a mix of fruit, black olive, herb and earth.
This popular red blend is almost three quarters Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Syrah, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Tasty, chewy and tannic, it shows strong flavors of cassis, licorice, smoke and espresso—the same dark style as the winery's varietal reds. It offers especially good grip and power for a wine in this price range.
This popular vineyard, now almost 20 years old, yields a brambly Pinot Noir which might pass for a Sonoma Coast bottling. More elegant, almost steely, than many of the other Soléna vineyard designates, this offers cooler fruit flavors of rhubarb and wild strawberry, along with anise and dried herb.
This popular white wine from Tuscany is aged three months in oak for extra softness and creaminess. Aromas include honey, peach and slightly roasted almond. Pair this pretty wine with spicy Indian or Thai curries.
This popular wine is about fresh fruit, vividly displayed with red cherries and red plum flavors, light tannins and easy acidity. To drink now.
This Port-style dessert wine is lush in aromas and flavors of kirsch, fig, cooked plum, clove and coffee. A nice expression of the Norton grape, this is viscous and smooth, yet the finish brings a bite at the end.
This Port-style wine is rich, sweet and frankly a joy to drink. It has chocolate-covered raisin, blackberry and blueberry jam and sweet oak flavors, with refreshing acidity for balance.
This Port comes from a good year for single-quinta vintages. Made in open stone lagars, it is a ripe, black-fruited wine, packed with sweet plums as well as raisins and figs. At this stage, the added brandy is very prominent and the wine needs time. It should be ready to drink for its fruit by 2018, for its maturity by 2026.
This Port is structured, with notes of mint and herb. It has blackberry jam flavor and a firm, solid structure, while it also shows intense youthful fruitiness. It is rich and full, showing some firm tannins. Either drink it right now, or leave it for 10 years.
This Port shows considerable richness in its jammy, spicy red fruit character. It is dense, on the sweet side, with a great open, ripe style. The tannins are relatively soft, suggesting this delicious vintage is for medium-term aging.
This Port was “rescued” from the darkest recesses of the Graham cellars and bottled to commemorate Queen Elizabeth's 90th birthday. It is impressively youthful even hinting at fruit. Of course, the concentration is intense and the richness is gorgeous. At the end, the acidity of a mature wine gives a shot of essential freshness. Drink now.
This Port was bottled unfiltered which means there are the right conditions for it to age. It is rich and dense with jammy black fruits and ripe tannins. Dried black plums and dates are backed up by a dry core and by fine acidity. Drink this rich wine now, but it will be much better from 2019.
This Port, still young to taste, is a dry style of LBV giving structure as much as fruit at this stage. It does have floral black fruits from the Touriga Nacional in the blend. It also has a firm core that will certainly soften. So although this wine can be drunk now, it will be so much better from 2019.
This portion of the winery's vineyard always yields Cabernets of enormous concentration with hard tannins. The 2009 is a classic, detonating in the mouth with laserlike blackberry and cassis flavors, to which new oak brings additional richness of smoky cedar. It's really a beautiful wine, but very tannic, even by Von Strasser standards. Give it at least eight years, and it could be drinking well 20 years from now.
This Portuguese variety, most often spelled “Verdejo,” isn't widely planted in California. But here, from Bray's estate vineyard, it has produced a lovely wine. Crisp and fine, with flavors of honeysuckle, lemongrass, peaches and candied ginger, it's the perfect accompaniment to Vietnamese or Burmese food.
This Poruzots offers a restrained version of Meursault, very structured, its texture severe and tight. Apple skin and green plum fruits go with the dry toast character. Age for a year for more ripe flavors to emerge.
This potent Petit Verdot will test your tolerance for tannins and raw power. After a bouquet of gritty berry aromas, tobacco, moss and graphite, you come to punishing tannins and huge flavors of blackberry and dark chocolate. Nothing really subsides on the finish, which is peppery and hard as rocks. This can age another 5–10 years, or drink now with something like steak or braised short ribs.
This potent Syrah is marked with strong scents of organic compost, umami, and roasted meat; it's packed with plenty of purple and black fruits. Though it tails off slightly in the finish, it seems destined for a good 6–8 year ride in the cellar, improving all the way.
This potent wine brings the snap and vivid acidity of Washington-grown grapes to the spicy red- and black-berry flavors of this fully ripened Zinfandel. It has cut and verve along with dense fruit, and a finish with smoke, espresso, anise and mineral streaks.
This potentially rich Champagne is still young. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that dominate the blend show tight acidity, minerality and a tangy, orange-like edge. Give it time to mature, and it will be splendid.
This Pouilly Fumé works well, balancing the ripe yellow and pineapple fruits with toast and spice notes to give a rounded, richly textured wine. It is now mature, while retaining a fruity character on the finish.
This pours an extremely pale-pink color, with dainty aromas of white cranberry, cherry and orange blossom in the bouquet. The lightweight palate is bright and lively, with good verve and tart berry and citrus flavors that finish quick yet clean. Drink now.
This pours such a pleasing, vibrant pink color, with a fruity nose of fresh strawberries. It's like eating strawberries dressed in lemon juice: refreshing, deceptively easy and simple. If you are looking for refreshment and charm, this is your wine.
This power-packed blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Malbec offers superripe cassis, fudge, vanilla bean and burnt coffee aromas. That coffee element carries over to the lush and softly structured palate, melding with blueberry, caramel and pork fat flavors, a meaty spice note adding to the deliciousness.
This power-packed new Malbec from the son of legendary Mendoza winemaker Jorge Riccitelli shows lush blackberry and cassis aromas along with burnt toast and graphite notes. A huge, saturated palate is resiny and chewy, while flavors of baked black fruits are oaky and savory, with a saucy finish that's bulky. This is full, chunky and delicious; drink through 2024.
This power-packed wine leads with aromas of raspberries, blackberries, dark chocolate and herbs. The dark fruit flavors are high octane, showing some warmth on the finish.
This powerful and densely packed sweet wine has a color that's nearly black except for a dark garnet rim, aromas of wood smoke and dark chocolate and flavors like espresso, blueberry syrup and black pepper. It's very high in alcohol, hot on the palate and about as bold as a wine can get.
This powerful and rich 100% Malbec from the western edge of Cahors is still so young. Big and fruity with ripe tannins that are surrounded by concentrated fruit, it is only just rounding out with a smoothness that comes from the wood aging. This small-production wine is named after a statue of Notre Dame in the vineyards of this family estate taken over by daughter Martine and husband Serge Costes 20 years ago. Drink from 2018.
This powerful and rich wine wants to be sweet but is bone dry. Hints of honey accompany opulent ripe peach and spiced pear flavors. The balance of the acidity is crisp and refreshing. Drink from 2017.
This powerful and ripe wine is a blend of juicy Merlot, perfumed Cabernet Franc and fruity Petit Verdot. It has weight, richness, layers of spice and peppered black plums. There are some tannins, but the wine is really ready to drink now until 2018.
This powerful and tannic wine impresses with its concentration, dark black fruit and dry core, proving it's made for long-term aging. A field blend of old vines, it shows both density and a minerality that comes from the vineyard's schist soil. Drink from 2019.
This powerful blend of 23% Malbec, 20% Carmenere, 20% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot and 7% Petite Verdot delivers layered aromas of olallieberry, grape candy, sage, anise and lava rocks. Purple fruits dominate the palate, with complexity provided by creosote and violets, along with ample tannins and acidity.
This powerful blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Franc by longtime urban winemaker Benjamin Silver comes together in a big way. Aromas recall rosemary-crusted beef, boysenberry, sweet tar and, thanks to the oak-aging, both caramel and vanilla. The rich palate shows black cherry, black raspberry and a pinch of tarragon.
This powerful blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petite Sirah, 15% Malbec and 5% Syrah shows maple syrup, caramelized black cherry, graphite and coffee aromas. A solid tannic backbone anchors the wine's richness, its blueberry, smoke, coffee and mocha flavors lingering long into the finish.
This powerful blend of Moroccan Syrah and Grenache is intense and fruity, and it bears ripe black-cherry, plum and blackberry flavors, tinged with chocolate, cherry cordial and granite notes. Soft tannins on the midpalate add texture to this dense, richly structured wine.
This powerful blend of Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is smoky with oak and thickly concentrated on the palate, with sweet blueberry fruit and dark chocolate flavors. Round and rich, it has moderate acidity.
This powerful Cabernet is bold in alcohol and ultra-ripe with fruit. The Port-like heat is balanced by luxurious cherry and black currant flavors, and lush new French oak that imparts a soft toastiness. It's hard to see the wine aging beyond 6–7 years, so decant it and enjoy soon.
This powerful Cabernet Sauvignon calls on 13% Malbec to further its brawn, the mix spending two years in entirely new French oak. Hugely muscular, it needs time to calm its masterfully ripe fruit and dark layers of clove spice, and to further soften its tannins and coax out the shy component of herb. The vineyard behind the wine is Bismark within the newly named Moon Mountain District.
This powerful effort is holding back on its richness now, but it has great potential. It has concentration, firm tannins and round fruit that will soften over the next several years.
This powerful expression of Riesling blends floral aromas with scents of lime, pineapple and crushed stone, then finishes with great length and intensity. The strident citrus and mineral notes seem to echo on the palate, filling the mouth with their characterful flavors.
This powerful Pinot is not for the meek or easily afraid. It's a heavyweight in its prime, stemmy and unabashedly full-throttled in juicy Bing cherry, blackberry and raspberry. Though generous in style, it remains coiled in acidity, with springtime aromas of just-picked rose, proving beauty can come in a substantial package.
This powerful Pinot, from one of the three distinct blocks within Black Kite's estate vineyard, offers earthy plum compote and blueberry with a lingering background note of vanilla. Bright, grippy and layered, the finish offers toasty oak.
This powerful rich wine is finely structured and concentrated. It has weight from solid tannins that contrast with the high tones of the ripe red-cherry fruits. From a single parcel, this cru wine is dense, both firm and fresh. Drink from late 2017.
This powerful ripe wine has firm tannins that are so well integrated. With acidity and with rich black fruit, the wine is concentrated and dense. From a small parcel on the slope of Saint-Emilion, it is a wine to age for many years. Drink from 2026.
This powerful ripe wine is full bodied and concentrated, with young tannins and rich berry fruits. It comes from a single vineyard high on the hill above the estate house. With its structure still intact, it will take time to develop. Drink from 2021.
This powerful Sagrantino opens with aromas of meat juice, truffle and black fruit. The palate offers blackberry, black cherry, cinnamon and black pepper, along with tobacco notes. It also has Sagrantino's trademark tannic backbone, but the tannins are ripe and are balanced by bright acidity.
This powerful wine features wood and the ripest fruit. It also has the solid structure of a Nuits Saint-Georges, creating a wine that is dark and impressively concentrated. It offers richness while preserving the fresh fruitiness of the vintage. Drink from 2017.
This powerful wine has a superb mix of the crispest fruit and great structure. Blackberries and black currants shine through the tannins, expressing the liveliness of the vintage. It is so well delineated with everything in its place. The wine is certainly going to age for decades. Drink from 2027.
This powerful wine has benefited from time in bottle, offering an elegance of peppercorn, cedar and black licorice around a lushness of velvety black fruit. Full-figured, it also exhibits rocky minerality, a nod to its vineyard site, as well as spicy layers of clove on the finish.
This powerful wine has big ideas, as indicated by the weight of the bottle. The wine itself is dense, showing some signs of extraction that give a dry and firm aspect to the wine. A juicy, black-plum aftertaste adds lift.
This powerful wine has considerable structure and considerable acidity that will shine as the wine develops. The fruit is delicious, showing great potential. Drink from 2020.
This powerful wine is sourced from 100-year-old vines in the famous Deaver vineyard. There's a touch of pepper behind the thick tannins and oak. It's a long lasting wine with leathery blackberry fruit that should come to the fore over time.
This powerful wine nicely balances big fruit flavors with a firm texture and full body. There are raspberries in the aroma, sweet and sour cherries in the flavor, and a nice, gripping mouthfeel.
This powerful wine puts purple plum and tart cherry fruit front and center. That fruit drives the bus through a dense palate, with a burst of acidity adding a turbo charge. It saw 25% new French oak.
This powerful wine reveals its style and breeding from the start. It has weight and concentration allied to great tangy fruit flavors. The nervy edge is very evident, with wood, structure from green apple skins and aging potential.
This powerful wine that also holds 5% Cabernet Franc shyly packs a punch. At first it comes off as elegant, soft and highly approachable. Faint notions of blackberry and black cherry are highlighted amidst a concentrated, tannic build.
This powerful, concentrated wine hails from the steep granite slopes of the Sommerberg. It is packed with both acidity and structured white fruits and citrus. The wine is textured with great depth of flavor, the acidity streaking right through the wine. It needs aging over at least 5–6 years.
This powerful, dense and hugely rich wine has swathes of ripe yellow and citrus fruits. These are balanced with beautiful botrytis, honey and spice notes. Although tempting, it would be a mistake to drink it now. Much better to wait until 2024.
This powerful, dense wine has a good, long journey to travel. The 20% wood aging has given a surprising amount of toastiness to the black plum fruit and intense acidity. It needs to age, so drink from 2020.
This powerful, fruity wine is full of ripe berry and plum fruit. It's delicious, its fruitiness right to the fore. The firm tannins are behind, giving a solid texture. This is a Port with a long-term future and an attractive medium-term.
This powerful, intense Bordeaux-style blend includes (in decreasing amounts) Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is richly textured, and it offers ripe boysenberry and cassis fruit, layered with supple tannins and smoky oak. Approachable now, but it will probably be better in five years, and it could still be going strong in 10 years.
This powerful, perfumed wine shows as much structure as fruit. That gives it a strong presence, solid and dense. Its black plum and damson fruits have richness, spice and intense acidity. With the dark tannins, the wine will certainly age. Drink from 2018.
This powerful, rich and complex wine comes from a low-yielding vineyard that produced just 2.5 tons per acre, and the meticulous label even shows the amount of fog days. Deep and jammy aromas of strawberry preserves, cherry pie, brown sugar, hot licorice and smoked meats give way to a sultry palate that shows nuanced layers of berries, black pepper, mace and baking spice.
This powerful, rich wine is densely packed with sweetness and citrus flavors. Honey and lemon notes combine with a dry core of botrytis, offering intensity and a complex sweet-and-sour finish.
This powerful, ripe wine is a delicious testament to the structured qualities of the Alicante Bouschet. It is rich and dense, with juicy blackberry flavors and dark tannins. With the wood aging smoothing out the wrinkles, the wine is impressive. Drink from 2017.
This powerful, savory bottling named for the two generations behind the family winery opens with toasted barrel and meat aromas before expanding on the nose and palate with additional black pepper and soy components. The fruit is distinctly spicy—a mix of blackberry, clove and cinnamon.
This powerful, single-vineyard wine is both fruity and structured. Dense tannins and dark cherry fruits are beautifully balanced with the wood aging. Wait to drink this wine until 2017.
This powerful, spicy wine offers structure and a thrust of wood. Firm and dark, as befits a Vosne-Romanée, it is densely powerful, full of black fruits that are already shining above the structure. Drink from 2017.
This powerful, tarry and ripe wine offers weight as well as good black fruits. As it develops, it will reveal ripe berry flavors with a balanced structure. Drink this potentially impressive wine from 2021.
This powerfully built, youthful wine was made from coastal fruit grown in Susanna's Vineyard. Brawny and smoky, it offers a concentrated black-cherry note that takes on a refined, baked quality. The fruit is cradled in soft, seductive acidity and a hint of leather.
This powerfully ripe, direct Chardonnay shows massive flavors of pineapples, nectarines, green apples, vanilla and oaky buttered toast, brightened with crisp, coastal acidity. Nice with scallops in a saffron and coconut cream sauce.
This powerfully textured white wine from Bien Nacido Vineyard will last for ages. Tightly wound on the nose with lime pith, limestone, Brie cheese rind and a touch of flint, the palate shows scorched Meyer lemon wedges and some seared orange pith. The mouthfeel is tremendously grippy. Drink 2017–2024.
This precious expression made by the dynamic Rizzi family shows thick, heavy, sweet creaminess in the mouth and bright aromas of honey, apricots, raisins and pressed flowers.
This precious Moscato d'Asti opens with soft foam and sweet aromas of peach, honey, almond blossom and jasmine. Pair this delicious dessert wine with fruit ice cream or semifreddo.
This precious vin santo opens with lovely aromas of caramel, butterscotch, vanilla bean and toasted honey-coated almond. There's a resiny feel in the mouth that is typical of this carefully aged dessert wine, and the close is sweet and tart at the same time.
This Preda Sarmassa cru Barolo promises to open and evolve with more time in the cellar (at least 10 years). At this point, the wine is still a bit closed and firm although the aromas are already showing pretty tones of fruit and blue flowers. The mouthfeel is polished but hard.
This predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon blend could actually be Cain Four this year, as there's no Malbec in the blend. Large and taut, it displays tightly wrapped prune, toast, coffee and currant aromas. Possesses a handsome mouthfeel, with full tannins, tarry pine bark and a cocoa note on the palate and back end. An elegant bruiser, it needs three to four years to come around.
This predominately Duras wine is fresh and fruity with an attractive depth of smoky tannins and structure. It is rich enough to age although its red currant fruitiness is delicious and juicy now. Drink now, or age until 2018.
This premier-cru vineyard, wholly owned by the Devillard family, has produced a broad, ripe wine. It is generous, somewhat muted at this stage although promising plenty of citrus and yellow fruits and acidity as it ages. The wood aging creates a smooth hint at the back. Drink from 2021.
This Premier Cru abuts some of the grandest Grand Crus of Burgundy. It shares the same rich, age-worthy characters with this dark structure and dense tannins. The wine is still very young: its texture mineral and concentrated. The black fruits and licorice flavors will develop slowly and surely, but don't drink before 2022.
This premier cru is on the cooler left bank of the Serein river, making this vintage a crisply mineral wine that's tight with zesty lemon and fine crisp acidity. The hints of yellow fruits are still to develop. The wine is structured and needs to age, so drink from 2018.
This Premier Cru is situated in the southern half of Savigny, close to Beaune proper. Here it has produced a ripe generous wine full of spicy smoky red fruits and balanced acidity. The wine is still showing its baby fruit and needs time. Drink from 2019.
This Premier Cru vineyard is on a high point in the village. It has produced a rich fruity wine with great structure and dense tannins. Bold red fruits are dominant with the acidity in a supporting role. The wine is rich, full and needing to age. Drink this wine from 2018.
This Premier Cru vineyard lies north of the Grand Crus, with a west-facing exposure. It has yielded a wine with soft, generous floral character, ripe yellow fruit and a crisp, mineral edge. Finely sculpted and ageworthy, it will be best from 2019.
This premier cru vineyard with its steep slopes, is close to the village of Saint-Aubin. It has produced a wine that is toasty, showing strong wood flavors as well as ripe pear and peach fruitiness. Drink this rich wine from 2018.
This premier cru, surrounded by grand cru vineyards, has produced a luscious, ripe wine. It's generous in both black fruit flavor and structure, showing great potential for aging. Drink from 2021.
This premium cuvée from Eugénie is packed both with superripe fruit and layers of wood aging flavors. The fruit of this impressive wine is still pushing through the dark tannins that give a dry dusty edge to the wine. It is powerful and rich and should age. Drink from 2020.
This presents a feather-weight but super-clean rendition of the 2014 vintage in a slender and balanced package. With airing, the characteristic pepperiness of Grüner shines through.
This presents a rather fresh take on this often extracted grape, with raspberry and boysenberry juice, black pepper, dried strawberries and a touch of wild mint. There are nice coffee elements on the palate, along with sage and brown spices, but the boysenberry and fresh purple fruits shine throughout.
This presents a rounded style, but still fresh with red fruits and soft acidity. It is light and fruity, with a bite of spice in the aftertaste.
This presents aromas of ripe black fruit—just shy of overripe—and bitter almond. The palate shows black cherry, baked plum and cinnamon flavors. While it's simply structured and a little shy on fresh acidity, it's still very enjoyable thanks to the generous fruit.
This presents aromas of toasted oak, espresso and a whiff of burned tire rubber. The lean palate displays raw, red cherry, coffee and oak extract alongside astringent tannins that leave an abrupt, bitter finish.
This presents sweet notes of berry fruit, cinnamon and crushed clove that are backed by firm structure and polished tannins. The finish is generous, with a cool cherry flavor.
This presents the nose whiffs of pineapple and wet stone while the lean palate offers rennet apple skin, tangerine and a hint of mineral. Bracing acidity dominates the finish.
This presents the opulence that many Chardonnay fans enjoy. It bears flavors of caramel, orange, pineapple, tapioca, vanilla, honey and cinnamon, which are wrapped in a creamy texture.
This prestige cuvée from Collet, with its hand-blown bottle and blend mainly of Premier and Grand Cru vineyards, is elegant and stylish—just like the fashion industry it celebrates. It is balanced, soft and ripe, filled with pear and apricot fruits that are cut with steely acidity. The wine has touches of maturity and this bottling is ready to drink.
This prestige cuvée from Jacquart is a blend of grand and premier crus, giving a wine that is rich, round and approaching maturity with a dense, deep series of fruit and creamy toast flavors. It's a beautiful Champagne at this stage, poised between youth and maturity. The aftertaste leaves a crisper, fruitier end.
This prestige cuvee honors Guy Devaux, who founded the California winery, and takes the familiar, user-friendly house style to an unprecedented level of intensity. The concentrated, beguiling nose suggests cask-conditioned ale and freshly baked bread. The wine fills every corner of the palate with rich, seductively layered flavors. The finish says California, not Champagne, with its tart fruit and spice.
This pretty 50-50 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Nero delivers bright aromas of citrus fruit, apricot, almond and yellow rose. The sparkler offers a smooth, creamy mouthfeel with a touch of piquant spice and mature fruit flavors on the close.
This pretty Barbaresco from the Asili cru offers bright fruit intensity with layers of white cherry, wild blueberry and plum. Those fresh tones are backed by softer shadings of smoke, spice and mineral. The wine is focused, sharp and firm on the long finish.
This pretty Barolo shows many of the telltale signs of the celebrated 2007 vintage. The wine is soft, dense and chewy with enduring aromas of chocolate fudge, red cherry and leather. Sophisticated tones of cured meat and Spanish cedar fill in the back.
This pretty barrique-aged Vernaccia delivers a luminous, golden color and perfume-like aromas of jasmine, almond, pear, honey, apricot and melon. It has a creamy, smooth mouthfeel and ripe melon flavors that are typical of this Tuscan variety.
This pretty blend of Aglianico, Montepulciano and Piedirosso delivers great intensity and persistency to the senses. The wine exhibits black cherry, forest berry, tobacco and black stone. Its structure is tight and firm and the wine could stand up to grilled prime ribs with a spicy barbecue sauce.
This pretty blend of Nero d'Avola, Cabernet and Merlot is soft and plush with lingering layers of bright fruit and exotic spice. You could pair it with spicy pork or beef dishes thanks to the wine's cushiony softness and chewy succulence.
This pretty Brunello riserva shows elegant tones of candied fruit, prune, leather, rum cake and dried rosemary. The wine is smooth and fine, with silky tannins and a elegantly aged quality. Don't wait too long to drink this wine.
This pretty Brut Rosé offers rich and soothing aromas of baked bread, dried flower, apricot and lavender. The blend is 60-40 Pinot Nero and Chardonnay and both varieties contribute to the overall richness of this sparkling wine.
This pretty Brut Rosé sparkler opens with a pretty pink color and aromas of stone fruit, white almond and chestnut honey. Thanks to the wine's foamy perlage, the bubbly tastes thick and smooth on the close.
This pretty Cab Franc opens with vibrant notes of red cherry and blackberry that are infused with spicy notes of green pepper, fynbos and fresh minty herbs. Fine yet structured tannins feel green and woody, while flavors of plum and cherry skin unfold on the finish. Drink now–2018.
This pretty Cannonau-based wine opens with ripe aromas of blackberry, tobacco and dried spice. The mouthfeel is smooth, plush and dense.
This pretty Chardonnay from Sicily (that sees six months in oak) delivers notes of apricot, banana, peach and a touch of playful exotic spice in the background. The wine is well-made and approachable and would pair beautifully with roasted eggplant and basil or fragrant Asian foods.
This pretty expression of Cabernet Franc delivers notes of carob, flowers and maraschino cherry. It's lighter in style with tart flavors and quite chalky tannins.
This pretty expression of Pecorino opens with a fragrant bouquet of wild flower, stone fruit and sweet honey. The wine holds firmly to the palate thanks to the natural richness of this indigenous grape.
This pretty expression of Primitivo opens with ripe fruit aromas of prune and blackberry, plus notes of sweet spice and moist pipe tobacco. There's a soft, chewy feeling on the palate, followed by bold fruit flavors.
This pretty expression of Prosecco opens with distinct aromas of white flower, honey and passion fruit. The quality of the perlage is firm and bright, with a steady delivery of mouth-cleansing effervescence.
This pretty expression of Riesling Renano offers fruity aromas of pear and peach backed by natural rubber and fragrant floral tones. The wine is soft, smooth and thick on the close.
This pretty expression of Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo opens with aromas of wild berry, plum, violet, wet earth and a whiff of Mediterranean herb. The lively, easy-drinking palate delivers sour cherry, black raspberry, black pepper and espresso alongside sleek tannins and bright acidity.
This pretty Extra Dry Prosecco (with a playful touch of sweetness) opens with bright aromas of peach, honey and jasmine and segues into a soft, creamy mouthfeel.
This pretty good everyday Chardonnay shows slightly sweet flavors of peaches, pineapples and mangoes brightened with crisp acidity. You could even make a summertime wine cooler with it.
This pretty light pink wine's acidic bounty is apparent on first sniff, as the underripe raspberry aromas are cut by a baking soda-like freshness. The sip of this mostly Grenache-based pinkie is all about the sizzle, where more club soda zest is painted with a light bubblegum flavor.
This pretty Moscato d'Asti shows a rich, creamy quality, thanks to the sweet tones of honey, peach and exotic fruit that drive the bouquet. The texture is sticky and thick, but a zesty touch of fresh acidity shows up right at the end to keep the palate refreshed.
This pretty Muscat leads with slightly lifted scents of candied orange peel, dried apricot, fresh honeycomb and a touch of straw. The rounded palate offers ripe fruit flavors that transition seamlessly into toasted nut and peach-skin flavors on the medium-length finish.
This pretty Pecorino opens with bright tones of apricot and honey followed by a thick, viscous mouthfeel. Pair it with asparagus or creamy artichoke risotto.
This pretty Pinot combines aromas of cherry and clove with fresh strawberry and cherry flavors, a lively texture and lingering finish. Refreshing and complete, it would pair well with everything from salmon to steak.
This pretty Pinot Grigio opens with creamy aromas of melon, stone fruit and pear. It has a full, generous and persistent personality.
This pretty Pinot Grigio would pair with or cream of shrimp risotto. There's a dry mineral note of brimstone and granite beyond more obvious tones of peach and citrus.
This pretty Pinot is less concentrated than those in Palliser's The Great... series, but the fruit speaks louder nonetheless. Bright cherry fruit retains Martinborough's savory, earthy edge while finishing crisp, with a hint of tea leaf. Drink now.
This pretty Pinot Noir is drinking well now, but has the depth to last for a while. It's succulent and forward in black and red currant, Dr. Pepper, clove, smoky vanilla and pepper flavors. Really a beautiful, alluring wine.
This pretty Pinot offers ripe fruit flavors of strawberry and cherry. There's a nice dash of chocolate and a supple, seamless mouthfeel, with all the components beautifully integrated.
This pretty Prosecco delivers elegant aromas of pear, white flower and honey. Thanks to a tangy touch of sweetness and the wine's creamy mousse, this could be paired with smoked salmon or prosciutto di Parma.
This pretty ramato style Pinot Grigio (“ramato” refers to the copperish color you see here) delivers clean aromas of citrus, pomegranate, white cherry and a touch of cinnamon spice. Pair this wine with crab cakes or grilled Ahi tuna.
This pretty red blend of Magliocco and Montonico Nero opens with bright aromas of red cherry and blackberry. It shows nice firmness and medium consistency.
This pretty red has an alluring fragrance of iris, violet, brown spice and crushed berry. The easygoing palate offers juicy black cherry, white pepper and a hint of espresso while lithe tannins lend support.
This pretty riserva from the up-and-coming Montecucco area of coastal Tuscany, which is located roughly between Bolgheri and Montalcino, shows deep nuances of cherry, blackberry and cassis, followed by notes of leather and tobacco. The palate is velvety and fresh.
This pretty Riserva Nebbiolo will surely grow softer and finer with age. Those who drink it now will experience smoky, toasted aromas of almond, cigar box, moist earth and powdered licorice. The wine is also elegantly tight and focused in the mouth.
This pretty rosé has flavors of tart salmonberry and wild raspberry, with plenty of citrusy acidity. Good balance throughout.
This pretty rosé sparkler from Prosecco producer Villa Sandi boasts a nice, easy style that manages elegance and dimension at the same time. Evident yeast tones create softness and buoyancy.
This pretty rosé sparkling wine opens with a lush raspberry color and toasted aromas of baked bread, almond, mature fruit and crème de cassis. It shows a clean, compact mouthfeel with a touch of crisp acidity on the close.
This pretty Rosso di Montalcino opens with a concentrated appearance and aromas of ripe fruit, spice, toasted nut and dried rosemary. A bit thin on the finish, the wine concludes with silky tannins and a fresh touch.
This pretty rosso has typical fragrances of dark fruit and spice. The palate shows ripe plum and cherry layered with cinnamon notes. It's fresh and ready to enjoy now, and would pair well with pasta dishes or grilled chicken.
This pretty Teroldego Riserva opens with dark concentration and offers pungent aromas of plum, cherry, spice and chewy cookie dough. The wine has power, intensity and ripe fruit flavors.
This pretty vineyard-designate Barbera d'Alba delivers a fresh bouquet of floral, fruit and spice aromas. The wine is tonic and firm with a bright, crisp close.
This pretty Viognier shows bright tones of honey, stone fruit, melon and peach. There's a subtle creaminess that's derived from the fruit itself, and it leaves a lasting floral impression on the senses.
This pretty white start with aromas of fragrant flowers, spice and vanilla, leading into creamy layers of citrus and fruit. A richer style of Chardonnay, but balanced with acidity and minerals. Pair with steak, lamb, richer seafood dishes.
This pretty white wine from northern Italy opens with an ashy, mineral feel and segues to aromas of candied fruit, peach and citrus. It is nearing the end of its drinking window so don't bother putting this bottle aside.
This pretty white wine would pair perfectly with salads, fresh water fish or grilled tuna. Stone fruit and honeydew melon give it a clean and lively mouthfeel.
This pretty wine is rich, dry and softly tannic. Although it's a little high in alcohol, it feels smooth and round, showing Cab's riper side of blackberry jam, cassis liqueur and chocolate, generously oaked. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, it's great to drink now and over the next four years.
This pretty wine offers a fragrance of hawthorne, Spanish broom and a touch of tropical fruit. The palate delivers apricot, peach and citrus flavors that are energized by steely mineral notes and bright acidity. It has a crisp, quenching finish.
This pretty wine opens with fresh aromas of melon, stone fruit and fragrant honeysuckle. This expression offers more richness and intensity than many of the Falanghinas available today.
This pretty wine showcases aromas of yellow flowers and exotic fruit. The bright palate offers honeydew melon, apple and a hint of almond alongside crisp acidity that leaves a quenching finish.
This pretty wine shows how well this variety thrives in Lodi. There's a mushu pork note, with peppery plum aromas and flavors that are delicious, and yet the wine is bone dry. Adequate acids and tannins make for balance. It may not be a complex wine but it's a thoroughly enjoyable one. Best Buy.
This pretty wine, with its pale pink color, is soft and fruity. Strawberry flavors give it a ripe character that's reflected in the light acidity on the finish. Drink now.
This pretty, aromatic Riesling is lush with cherry-blossom and berry scents that mingle lusciously into layers of wax and lanolin. By contrast, the palate is crisp and bracing with tones of lemon and lime acidity.
This pretty, floral wine made entirely from Chardonnay grapes from this site is both creamy and crisp. It offers impressive length, acidity and stoniness, accenting its focused green apple flavor. As it opens, it takes on a richer honey-like tone that adds further complexity and deliciousness.
This pretty, polished young Chardonnay comes from the sprawling Santa Maria Valley of Santa Barbara County. It's a good, dry wine, rich in acidity, with mineral-infused apple, pineapple and pear flavors, lavished with sweet, smoky oak. Drink now.
This pretty, Rhône-style red blend consists of roughly equal parts Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, with a splash of co-fermented Roussanne. It smells young and fruity, with candied scents of strawberry and raspberry. With plenty of breathing it gains a bit of midpalate weight, but the candied character remains.
This pretty, salmon-colored wine opens with aromas of red berry, iris and a yeasty note of bread dough. On the palate, strawberry and raspberry take center stage while clove and vanilla add interest. It's balanced with bright acidity, while a soft mousse adds elegance.
This pretty, warm wine is touched with caramel and yellow fruit flavors. It gets a kick from crisp lemon zest. Drink in the coming months.
This primarily barrel-fermented and barrel-aged Chardonnay offers toasty oak on the nose and a palate rounded out by expressive fruit. Soft and friendly, it has a lingering finish but is not overly complex. Pair wth game birds and seafood.
This Primitivo bears a dark, inky color, with bold aromas of blackberry jam and exotic spice. Oak-driven flavors of tobacco, cinnamon, toasted nut and carpenter's shop are almost too much. However, the wine does end on a sweet, fruity note.
This Primitivo gives off both ripe and green characteristics with a finish of vanilla, but it also comes off as slightly burnt.
This Primitivo has a raw nose with notes of tin can and petroleum that take away from the natural integrity of the fruit. The wine is light and thin in appearance with a sour note on the close.
This Primitivo has good linearity and well-defined aromas of black fruit and spice. The wine is ripe and succulent, but it is also precise: pair it with grilled meats or pasta with meat ragu.
This Primitivo opens with inviting peppery aromas, followed by bright fruit and spice overtones, along with a nice bead of acidity throughout. A good pizza and lasagna wine.
This Priorat-like blend of 50% Grenache, 28% Syrah, and 22% Mourvèdre is pungent and spicy, with a bit of menthol in the nose. Supple and luxurious fruit, a mix of raspberry and black fruits, baking spices, sweet barrel flavors. Powerful and rich, this is a big wine with tobacco and clove highlights and a little heat in the finish.
This pristine expression of Grillo opens with dry aromas of hay and crushed white stone followed by melon, citrus, pear and white almond. There's a spicy touch of white pepper on the close.
This pristine Prosecco Brut offers drying mineral tones framed by delicate notes of stone fruit and spring blossoms. This is an elegant and linear wine with a direct and immediate personality. You'll get soft peach flavors and a clean, crisp close.
This private reserve is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, aged considerably in bottle. Rich and full-bodied, it has a vanilla-kissed nose and earthy leather pedigree, the black cherry flavor concentrated and thick.
This private selection is nicely structured, pitting clean raspberry fruit against tight tannins. Those strong components are accented with touches of cola and earth and a subtle undercurrent of barrel toast.
This prodigious wine showcases Barossa's ability to deliver big, mouthfilling flavors without any suggestion of heat or heaviness. Scents of stone fruit, pepper and red currants mark the nose, while the flavors take on a darker cast, heading toward black cherries and black olives. The tannins are supremely silky, but this graceful, feminine beauty should drink well through at least 2020.
This producer's light take on the variety continues to impress with this vintage. Anise and oak hints combine on the nose to invite one in for an elegant taste of bright, juicy acidity and refined lemon and green apple flavors.
This producer's signature grape is Chardonnay and this Champagne with its tight, nervy and mineral character is a fitting emblem. It is crisp, with green-apple fruit and lively acidity. Underneath there is a structure that will allow the bottling to age further. Drink from 2018.
This producer's style is for rich wines and this is no exception. With its depth of fruit and ripe apples and lemon, it is both crisp and full. The wine has some wood aging not for the flavor, more for the open effect. Drink the wine now.
This producer's vines are in the Sézanne region, south of Epernay. With a high proportion of Pinot Meunier in the vineyard, it has produced a ripe, oak fermented wine that has obtained its color from the grape skins (rather than the usual Champagne practice of adding red wine). It is a dark colored rosé, one that is dry, with crisp red currant fruits and plenty of acidity. Drink now.
This producer always does a nice job with Zinfandel and this is no exception, a fairly-priced offering of fresh-picked blackberry, red berry and blueberry. Sanguine and leathery in the background, it's balanced, too, with a finish of black pepper.
This producer based in the Marne Valley has made a deliciously crisp, bone dry rosé. With raspberry fruitiness and lively acidity, it's tight, mineral and drinkable as a young Champagne.
This producer based in the small Côte de Sézanne has produced a bright, zesty and crisp style of blanc de blancs. It emphasizes fruitiness, lively with only a light touch of chalky minerality. It is full, ripe, fruity and ready to drink.
This producer continues to impress in quality and focus. Proving the point, this estate-grown white proffers inviting teases of jasmine and tropical-kissed peach and pear. Tangy acidity finds a complement of texture and body, delivering voluptuousness that remains elegant in the glass.
This producer continues to impress with varieties that are outside the usual suspects, showing finesse with this dry expression of waxy apple and tart lemon. Creamy on the palate, it exuberantly releases stony minerality as it goes, finishing with a taste of wet stone.
This producer continues to up its game with this brand. This wine offers a smoky, luxurious experience defined by black-cherry spice, smoky oak and a thickness of chocolate. Textured and full bodied, it's made for fans of a richer, more concentrated style.
This producer continues to up its game with this variety, becoming more impressive with every vintage. With the majority stainless-steel fermented, it offers tart, tangy grapefruit pith, lemon and lime around a grip of sublime texture and length.
This producer does a fantastic job of presenting quality air-dried fruit without the jamminess and heaviness that is sometimes encountered. Aged for 30 months in large oak casks, this is tight, structured and elegant.
This producer focuses on Rhône Valley varietals, and this wine continues the theme. Its apricot and very fine mineral texture are impressive and rich. Touched by spice from wood aging, the wine is generous, with the potential of a creamy, smooth texture as it ages. For now, it is fruity and rich. Drink from 2018.
This producer has a magic touch with its white wines, and this fresh Greco di Tufo is no exception. Mineral nuances are enhanced by notes of stone fruit, honey and citrus. A dusty touch of talcum powder appears on the close.
This producer has a number of estates in Sancerre. This estate, bearing his own name, has produced a delicate, crisp and fruity wine. Its acidity and tight texture make this wine really food friendly.
This producer impresses again with this vibrantly layered, fleshy coastal-grown white, which is golden in color and brooding in baked lemon and a length of spiced apple. Its nicely contoured acidity supports a tang of crisp citrus.
This producer in Corgoloin has made a lightweight red Burgundy, with bitter cherry flavors. The tannins are soft, the effect somewhat rustic with an earthy, high acid aftertaste.
This producer is honing in on the unconventional, sourcing Pinot Noir grapes from unlikely Napa Valley spots like Spring Mountain and Atlas Peak. The resulting wines are surprising and unpredictable in their complexity of savory blithe spirit, light and clear with edgy red cherry and tea, plenty structured, with lurking tannin. The floral aspect on the nose is compelling, as is the cardamon finish.
This producer is making some fantastic best-bang-for-your-buck Cabernets. This one is an excellent case in point, a sultry, sophisticated and elegant take on the variety, with memorable characteristics of chocolate, raspberry and dried herb in the form of bay leaf. Structured and ready for the table, it's a standout.
This producer is showing true skill with this variety, vibrant in red and black cherry and cassis. Bright and satisfyingly generous on the palate, it's succulent as well as being earthy, with lingering layers of black pepper and cinnamon. It never gets heavy or burdensome, maintaining a fleetness of freshness that's irresistible.
This producer is the only grower of Caladoc grapes in Portugal, and one of the few in the world. Blended here with Tinta Roriz, the grape gives a ripe, soft and perfumed wine. It has a generous character, all fruit and balanced acidity. Drink now.
This producer is well respected for its long reputation of making ageworthy whites and this vintage is no exception, a bright, complex and nutty expression of pear and ginger cookie. Textured and restrained, it shows a wealth of structure and lemony acidity. Cellar it away until 2024 if you can.
This producer makes a perennial standout of the variety. It is subdued and elegant in its approach to the lengthy layered weight and the integrated fruit. Plum, cedar and black licorice form a core of flavor over soft supple tannin and peppery oak, ending in a burst of spice and leather.
This producer makes small amounts of minimal-intervention wines from a handful of California appellations and this one does a good job of capturing Russian River. Peppery and steeped in dried herb and lavender, it goes light on the oak to show tightly woven tannin and structure, but the floral aromatics, especially of rose, really shine.
This producer owns the coveted vineyard designation, selecting some fantastic fruit that yields a wine that is intense in black cherry and forest floor, accented by wild mushroom. The style is substantial and generous in ripeness and oak, mouthfillingly rich and lushly layered, yet elegant on the finish. Cellaring, through 2020, should soften its edges.
This producer releases a vintage Champagne almost every year. This latest release shows the character of a vintage widely regarded as difficult. It's fast maturing, with soft fruit, attractive acidity, just a touch of toast and a mineral structure. Drink now.
This producer remains committed to showcasing this rare variety, making this 100% version of it from 40-plus-year-old dry-farmed vines. He lets the grapes hang out sur lie for five months in mostly stainless steel, with a small amount of neutral French oak. The result presents as full bodied, though the ripeness is restrained, a celebration of apple, vanilla, spicy lemongrass and robust minerality.
This producer shows its aptitude for whites with this dry, estate-grown effort, a bit cloudy thanks to the lack of fining and filtering. A touch of grass is on the nose, but then it's all rich, vanilla-laden texture and pear, the body medium and the wine lengthy and in balance.
This producer shows its preference for dry Champagnes with this bone-dry, oak-fermented bottling. With its bottle age and the softening effect of wood, it's generous and gently textured, leaving plenty of room for its bright fruit and balanced acidity to show. Drink from 2018.
This producer specializes in seeking out parcels of old vines. In this case, the vines, planted at high density, have unusually crooked trunks. The wine itself, richly tannic and dense, has new wood flavors, ripe black-plum fruits and a dark firm character. It is still young and will develop into an impressively rich wine. Drink from 2019.
This producer, based in Ladoix-Serrigny in the Côte de Beaune also has a small parcel in this Grand Cru in Vosne-Romanée. Like all this producer's wines it was fermented in open tanks before barrel aging. That gives an extra concentration to the ripe fruits and firm tannins. It is an opulent wine, juicy with black fruits and acidity. With its structure, it will certainly age further, so drink from 2019.
This producer, based in the eastern edge of Saint-Emilion, has these vines in the flat plain that leads to the Dordogne river. The wine has richness that comes from the vintage while also having structure and power. The juicy acidity and blackberry fruits are still developing, so drink from 2019.
This producer, based in the Lisboa region, has branched out into the Alentejo to source this rich, generously ripe wine. With its full-bodied plum and spice flavors, it is soft with a light touch of tannin. Drink now.
This producer, based in the Tarn valley east of Cahors, has created a rounded, ripe and fruity wine. With some young tannins still in evidence, it is all about berry fruits and balanced acidity. The structure will soften over the next few months, so drink this attractively fruity wine from late 2017.
This producer, based in the western Loire, has been able to take advantage of the cool ocean climate to produce a crisp, fruity Chardonnay. It is all fruit, citrus and white-plum flavored, with a soft, fresh aftertaste. Drink now.
This producer, based on the northern slopes of the Montagne de Reims, has created a tight vintage wine that is still young. With its 70% Pinot Noir it has a dry, almost tannic edge that will soften to bring out the ripe pear and apricot flavors. Drink this impressive wine from 2019.
This producer, firmly established in Vinho Verde and the Douro, also has vineyards at Quinta da Aguieira in the central coastal region of Bairrada. A blend of local white grapes along with some Chardonnay, this wine is ripe, with a touch of saltiness and minerality, plus plenty of concentration from old vines. With its rich texture and crisp aftertaste, this is ready to drink.
This proffers a very clean-cut nose with a hauntingly precise notion of Williams pear. The lovely, slender palate features some midpalate texture and delicate lemon and pear notes finishing with a warm aftertaste of alcoholic power.
This progressive domaine in Tavel reaches into neighboring Lirac for this wine, which is a high 70% Cinsault (the balance is Grenache). It's fresh and citrusy despite having ample weight, ending on a zesty note.
This project aimed to show how well Washington wines can age and the proof is in the bottle. Aromas are complex, with notes of dried cranberry, cherry, leather, black tea, cocoa and mushroom. The palate is packed with rich fruit flavors that show no signs of slowing down. It flat-out impresses.
This project led by founder Jocko Douglas makes small batches of compelling wine. This Pinot Noir offers aromas of blackberry-laced tea, mocha and spearmint. The palate shows juicy, plump raspberries and blackberries bolstered by clove, allspice and espresso elements.
This property continues its upward trend. It is a solid wine, packed with great ripe fruit. Old vines give extra concentration and depth of flavor. The wine has great potential, with both its tannins and rich fruit playing strongly. Drink from 2023.
This property excels in some vintages,and the 2015 is a huge success. It's certainly complex, effortlessly combining hints of pungency with soothing notes of grapefruit. In the mouth, it's fairly full and creamy in texture, then punctuates that richness with a long, vibrant finish.
This property is flying below the radar...for now. This is yet another excellent wine from Clos Berenguer. The nose is full of butterscotch and oxidized aromas of fine Sherry. The palate has a big feel, purity and fine acidity, while flavors of smoke, toast and oxidized white fruits finish waxy, creamy, oaky and long. This Garnacha-heavy blend would go great with fish or lobster done in a butter sauce.
This proprietary blend brings together many of Napa Valley's old-vine grapes, from Zinfandel and Petite Sirah to Alicante Bouschet and Mourvèdre. Plum sauce, tobacco and leather are seasoned in black pepper and espresso within a full-bodied grippy package.
This proprietary blend combines 52% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, another in its line of Aaron Pott-made wines. It's lovable in its austerity and varietal suggestions of dried herb, cedar and green bean. Dusty, soft tannins support a full-bodied, straightforward structure.
This proprietary blend combines 63% Pinot Grigio from Carneros, 22% Traminer from Carneros and a small percentage of Moscato Giallo from Lodi. Together they harmonize in a light, crisp and floral bouquet of apricot, ginger and lemon, never becoming overly fussy and instead focusing entirely on refined refreshment.
This proprietary blend of 62% Sémillon and 38% Sauvignon Blanc seems on the sweet side. It tastes like a honeyed fruit drink, with orange and tropical fruit flavors, plus hints of white pepper and spicy tobacco.
This proprietary blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Malbec satisfies, offering a crisp, creamy layering of strawberry and grapefruit atop a medium-sized body and salty, tangy finish.
This proprietary blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Grenache, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a deep and layered nose. Wild blackberry jam, pine pitch and white sage converge, like a walk through the California chaparral. The acidity is amazingly vibrant, with flavors of bright purple fruit, pepper and crushed herbs on the finish.
This proprietary blend starts with a very gamy though thoroughly enjoyable nose of charred meat, coffee, berry and compost. On the palate, there is espresso, dried herbs and black cherry, proving to be a complex and savory yet very easy-to-like wine.
This proprietary bottling from Shafer is always a huge wine. The 2010, which contains a splash of Petite Verdot, is gigantically packed with blackberry jam, black currant, dark chocolate and sweet oak, courtesy of 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels. The wine is a bit of a bully now, but it has the balance to age. Give it until 2018.
This proprietary combination of 43% Roussanne, 43% Pinot Gris and 14% Viognier is creamy and robust, although it did not spend time in oak. Apple, apricot and an intensity of tart lemon make up the flavor characteristics, the body round and full.
This proprietary red combines equal portions of Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah with smaller amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Altogether, they form soft, spicy waves of full-bodied flavor, showing off characteristics of leather, black pepper and clove, with the tannins intrusive and lengthy.
This proprietary, single-vineyard blend is 50% Cabernet Franc and 25% each Tannat and Malbec. Sharp and slightly volatile, the black-cherry palate is burried by herbal tannins.
This Proprietor's Reserve Grenache is one of a handful of Maryhill's 2010 reds that improves upon the previous vintage. Sappy and relatively substantial, this has a core of Bing cherry, along with chewy tannins and an earthy finish.
This Prosecco Brut (made with 5% Chardonnay for extra smoothness) delivers floral aromas of dried lavender and rose backed by mineral tones and pulpy peach. It's a lively and generous wine made by Franco Adami, one of the most charismatic and enthusiastic producers in Prosecco land.
This Prosecco Brut does have a touch of wet cardboard that weighs down the wine's natural aromas of peach, citrus and honey. The appearance is bright and luminous and the wine tastes tonic and fresh in the mouth.
This Prosecco Brut from Tenuta Cà Bolani is symbolic of the sparkling wine efforts now underway in the newly enlarged Prosecco appellation. The wine is simple and bright with a lean mouthfeel and lively citrus endnotes.
This Prosecco Brut from the slightly warmer Conegliano subzone is a perfect example of its kind. The luminous sparkler offers drying mineral tones that are embellished by pretty notes of white rose, honey, stone fruit and citrus. The mouthfeel is lean, smooth and fresh.
This Prosecco Brut has a neutral mineral streak that recalls crushed vitamin with stone fruit and some floral notes. It tastes lean and compact and although it doesn't have much staying power, it leaves the palate clean and refreshed.
This Prosecco Brut seems disjointed and unfocused because of the piquant soda and sharp citrus notes that define it. There's a touch of matchstick in there as well—that blows off eventually—yet the sparkler never fully recovers.
This Prosecco Cartizze offers fun tones of minerals and dried herbs that add one more aromatic layer to the wine's natural fruit flavors of white peach, pear and honey. This luminous sparkler is loaded with fruity flavors that recall pear and peach.
This Prosecco delivers medium intensity and a compact, slightly watery mouthfeel followed by lime, kiwi, white flower, honey and chopped basil. The cheerful sparkler ends with creamy consistency thanks to the foamy quality of its effervescence.
This Prosecco Extra Dry definitely boasts sweet, fruity tones of peach, melon and honey and backs those aromas with a creamy, frothy texture. It has piquant, lively effervescence and a crisp, citrusy finish. Col Vetoraz is located at the heart of Valdobbiadene's most celebrated cru.
This Prosecco Extra Dry has a subtle, easy approach with measured fruit intensity but recognizable sweetness in the form of silky honey and melon. It offers a good measure of cleaning effervescence and chewy fruit to keep it going.
This Prosecco Extra Dry has full notes of almond and stone fruit backed by sticky honey and mature fruit. The wine tastes sweet and fruity and has pretty floral nuances with some mildly sour flavors on the finish.
This Prosecco Extra Dry, made from organically grown grapes, lacks tonic freshness but delivers flatter, broader tones of peanut skin and mature stone fruit. It has almond flavors backed by stone fruit and a slightly sour note on the finish.
This Prosecco is made with fruit from the Conegliano area and does a nice job of reflecting the potential of this Prosecco subzone. It offers aromas of grapefruit, spring flowers with a touch of sweet spice and lemon zest. This area produces a bigger, broader expression of the popular Italian sparkler.
This Prosecco is not as fresh as others and offers a tiny hint of ash or matchstick at the back. In the mouth, however, the wine tastes tonic and tight and ends with a blast of citrus zest.
This Prosecco offers heavier aromas of yellow rose, soda, pear, peach and cardboard in what is a flatter and broader interpretation of this popular Italian sparkler. The mouthfeel is lean and crisp and you could pair this wine with fried finger foods.
This Prosecco stands out in a crowd thanks to its strong concentration of pear-like aromas. That pear note is embellished by similar tones of Golden Delicious apple, almond and melon. Great personality and persistency in the mouth.
This Prosecco Superiore doesn't offer the roundness of other wines in its category, but it does offer an easy-drinking experience with fresh fruit, sweet peach and creamy perlage.
This Prosecco Superiore is characterized by an immediate whiff of tree-fresh lemon and shows a stronger citrus quality than most sparklers in its category. The close is steely, bright and dry.
This Provençal-style blush is made from Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache. It's a good wine, dry and crisply acidic, but not without its faults. The main problem is a streak of green mint and vegetables. But there's enough sweet raspberry and cherry fruit to get by.
This Provence cru classé estate has produced a refreshingly fruity wine. With its red-currant and citrus flavors and tight mineral acidity, it is both textured and really crisp. Drink now.
This proves that sparkling wine does not have to be bone-dry to be sophisticated. Although moderately sweet, it is complex in aroma, elegant in texture and balance, rich in flavor and long on the finish. An appealing fresh-bread aroma leads to rich poached-pear flavors. This will be great with an after-dinner cheese course.
This provides a strong argument that delicate yet flavorful Pinot Noir can indeed come from the Santa Clara Valley. Intriguing and elegant aromas of lavender and violet meet with Earl Grey tea and bergamot on the nose. The palate's light black-plum and black-raspberry fruit are enlivened by purple flowers and a dusting of dried sage.
This provides a very good example of the varietal in a velvety-smooth style. It tastes dry but generous, nicely balanced and just tannic enough to be appetizing. Flavors are a warm combination of berries, light spices and a touch of oak.
This pruney, baked and somewhat sour blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot presents itself as overly ripe.
This pruny smelling Malbec, Cabernet and Petit Verdot blend hits with a thud. Stewy and overripe, this tastes raisiny and like little else. Similar on the finish.
This puckering, tannic and brawny wine has a lot of body and a shyness of fruit, lingering in clove and tobacco.
This puff-pastry of a wine has a vivid gold color, enticing bread-dough aromas and lush texture. Ripe peach and honey flavors are layered with butterscotch and mineral notes that lead to a lingering finish. Full-boded, well-balanced and delightful.
This pulls off the neat trick of being both light and dense, with fruit running the gamut from strawberry to cherry to cassis. Deeply concentrated, and with lovely purity and length, this is delicious now but will surely drink even better in a few years. Drink 2018 through 2028.
This pure Arinto from its home territory is fresh, fruity, citrus-driven and with apple and textured zesty orange flavors. The wine has structure, intense acidity and a tangy, mineral character that will allow it to mature a few more months. Drink now, but better from late 2016.
This pure Cabernet blends first-class fruit from Loess, Windrow and Cold Creek. It's spicy and tight, with black cherry fruit at the core. It's back-loaded with toast and caramel flavors from aging in a mix of French and American oak.
This pure Cabernet Franc is perfumed and crisply fruity. It has balanced acidity as well as a soft, creamy character. Red-berry fruits go well with a citrus aftertaste. Drink now.
This pure Cabernet Franc was barrel-aged for 21 months in 30% new French oak. That barrel toast stands out, along with flavors of tart berries, hints of green fruit and earthy tannins. Aeration is a good idea for this young wine.
This pure Cabernet Franc, aged in 100% second-use French oak, displays nicely ripened fruit flavors of blackberry and black cherry. Highlights of black pepper dapple the finish, which at first seems attenuated, but opens up nicely with extended breathing time.
This pure Cabernet from a lush vintage comes together in a wonderfully supple, dense and complex mix of red and black fruit, coffee, mocha and toast flavors. There is no part of this wine that is not thoroughly delicious. It's very satisfying, long and luscious, with plenty of life ahead—but why wait?
This pure Cabernet is stubbornly unyielding at first, showing a lean and herbal expression. But with extensive (overnight) breathing time, the fresh and bright flavors of boysenberries and cassis pop into focus, the tannins are ripe and polished, the finish still tightly wound but textural and long.
This pure Cabernet jumps from the glass with luscious cherry fruit. Forward and tasty, it's a full-blown mouthful of cherries and chocolate, with a hint of warmth in the back of the throat from the alcohol. Drink soon while the fresh fruit is in play.
This pure Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate vineyard shows focused blueberry, black cherry and cassis fruit at its core, with underlying minerality. Dusty tannins and firm acids support a chewy, cherry-infused finish.
This pure Cabernet Sauvignon is light and lean in appearance, with a slightly sour note on the finish. It offers easy aromas of ripe fruit, spice, black pepper and dried herb.
This pure Cabernet Sauvignon is not a heavy wine, but within its sleek profile are interesting flavors of berry, leaf and earth. Tannins are crisp and proportionate, and the fruit carries through a graceful, moderately long finish.
This pure Cabernet spent 22 months in a mix of French and American oak, though what percentage was new is not stated. It enters the palate with a pleasing mix of cassis, tar and a hint of mint, then seems to hit a wall and fade.
This pure Carignan from 80-year-old vines is really interesting aromatically, featuring hints of clove, cinnamon and lavender, but its substantial tannins clamp down hard on the palate, raising the question of whether it has enough fruit concentration to age successfully. Drink now with tannin-taming rare beef or lamb, or cellar it and hope.
This pure Chardonnay has a tight, nervy mineral texture that gives great freshness as well as a crisp apple skin and lemon zest character. It is fruity, full of lively acidity that goes with the perfumed, refreshing aftertaste.
This pure estate-grown Cabernet shines. It's tight and somewhat earthy, with nuanced notes of bark and stem. The fruit is medium bodied, firm and clean, showing good balance.
This pure expression of Cabernet Sauvignon from sunny Tuscany has done a good job of holding up to the heat of the vintage. The wine shows ripe aromas of blackberry, chocolate and spice but does not taste jammy or cooked. In fact, it strikes a very good balance between fruit and firmness.
This pure expression of Corvina (one of the main grapes used in Amarone) opens with a pretty ruby color and bright aromas of forest berry, blueberry and white almond. It boasts an easy, fresh mouthfeel that would work with pork or smoked ham.
This pure expression of Frappato offers savory notes of cassis and cured meat, followed by prune and dark plum accents. It's a dark and concentrated interpretation of this grape.
This pure expression of Merlot opens with enticing scents of red woodland berry, crushed flower, smoke and exotic incense. The silky, structured palate boasts a range of flavors, including juicy wild cherry, raspberry jam, licorice, tobacco, vanilla and cinnamon, while velvety tannins offer seamless, polished support. It's already elegant and thoroughly delicious, but it will age well too. Drink 2018–2028.
This pure expression of Negroamaro has been enhanced by rich oak influence, producing a bouquet redolent of spice, dark chocolate, cigar box and Spanish cedar. There are jammy fruit tones at the back. If oak is not your thing, don't bother.
This pure expression of Nerello Mascalese opens with bright berry intensity and drying mineral nuances of brimstone and lead pencil. The mouthfeel is fresh, lean and etched.
This pure expression of Nero d'Avola has bittersweet aromas of almond and cherry that are set against notes of soda, cassis and wet earth. The wine is aged in stainless steel to maintain the purity of its aromas.
This pure expression of Nero d'Avola offers broad aromas of red berry, blackberry and currant. The fruit is on the dry side, made complex with aromas that recall wet earth and tobacco. The palate is elegant and layered.
This pure expression of Sangiovese delivers aromas of blackberry, plum and cassis, plus accents of spice and tobacco. It is easygoing and crisp, and it would pair well with grilled sausages or pork chops.
This pure expression of Sangiovese offers alluring aromas of ripe plum, blue flowers and baking spice. The straightforward palate delivers black cherry, licorice, toast, espresso and ground pepper alongside polished tannins.
This pure expression of Sangiovese offers classic varietal aromas of red berry, plum, violet and a whiff of dark cooking spice. The vibrant palate offers juicy black cherry, ripe raspberry, white pepper, anise and a hint of tobacco. Bright acidity and polished tannins provide the framework. Enjoy 2016–2020.
This pure expression of Syrah opens with a black fruit note, followed by opulent notes of cardamom, clove and nutmeg. Savory notes of leather and cured meat drive the palate's momentum.
This pure expression of the Fiano Minutolo variety opens with candied aromas of peach syrup and butterscotch. Honey and sweet fruit flavors fill the palate.
This pure expression of the native Corvina grape opens with a thin ruby appearance and spicy aromas of wild berry and crushed black pepper. The wine is packaged with a glass cork that underscores its identity as an informal, food-friendly Italian red.
This pure Grenache is an elegant wine, one that might be mistaken for Pinot Meunier, given its light hue and stiff tannins. Pretty raspberry and cherry fruit comes up slowly—give it plenty of aeration—and the more it breathes, the less those tannins take away from the fruit.
This pure Malbec carries spicy, slightly gamy scents similar to Syrah. Forward purple fruits fill the mouth, accented with notes of licorice, moist earth and dried herb. The finish leaves an impression of maple syrup, which is quite delicious.
This pure Malbec from a single vineyard offers deep boysenberry fruit flavors, along with cassis, coffee and dark chocolate. It shows an effective balance between fruit and barrel flavors.
This pure Malbec is generous and ripe. It has concentration and dark berry fruits that come strongly through the tannic structure. As it develops, its texture will become increasingly more velvety, bringing out richness. Wait until 2018.
This pure Marsanne was whole-cluster pressed and fermented in French oak barrels—30% of which were new. It's full and flavorful, and it has a lemony richness that's streaked with veins of butterscotch and marzipan. As with all of this winery's 2011 white wines, the aromatics are excellent and the length is exceptional.
This pure Merlot coats the mouth with opulent berry and cherry fruit and silky tannins. Crafted from Ciel du Cheval, Conner Lee and Stonetree vineyard grapes, the poise, balance, integration and persistence are outstanding, as is the value.
This pure Merlot has the grip and muscle often found in Washington fruit; in fact, it's a bit tight at first. Notes of red plum, strawberry and stiff tannins carry the medium finish, with a nice hint of dried herb.
This pure Merlot is made from fruit that was sourced from Bacchus, Conner Lee, Dionysus and Klipsun vineyards. Sappy, spicy and loaded with black fruits, this delivers plenty of flavor across the rich midpalate. Notes of black cherries, coffee grounds, licorice and smoke all come into play.
This pure Merlot is racy, ripe and ready to drink, with fruit that shows maturity. Tannins are well integrated into the structure, leaving plenty of room for the juicy fruit and mature, spicy flavors. Drink now.
This pure Merlot special cuvée is intense, rich and extracted. It has serious layers of spice and toast from wood aging. That lies over a solid structure that is concentrated and dense. The fruit is more masked and the bitter licorice character of the wine means it will take several years to come together. Drink from 2020.
This pure Merlot wine from Mayne-Vieil is ripe and rich. Full of jammy blackberry and black plum, it is a generous wine, enveloping the tannins in a cushioned embrace. It is going to develop into a delicious wine. Drink from 2018.
This pure Merlot wine suffers from excessive wood aging giving an extra-dry character. To compensate, the red fruit is perfumed and rich. Another year will help the softening process although probably not enough.
This pure Mourvèdre begins well, offering a full palate of varietal flavors that are built upon a mix of citrus and ripe tree fruits, along with accents of leaf and forest. It turns soft and seems a bit overripe, running into a rather short finish.
This pure Pommard-clone bottling offers lighter red fruit with highlights of cocoa and baking spices. The balance is good, and this should age well and develop interesting aromatics if cellared. Drink 2018–2025.
This pure Roussanne offers bracing acidity coupled with fleshy melon, citrus and pineapple. Balanced and fresh, it still shows a yeasty character, with hints of cracker from aging in older French oak.
This pure Shiraz gives a wonderfully perfumed wine that is both spicy and packed with dark, dense fruits. Blackberries are supported by soft tannins and a touch of caramel from wood aging. It's solid, firm while also fruity and should age. Drink from 2016.
This pure Syrah from Reininger's estate vineyard has the focus and also the tightness that often characterize single-vineyard wines. There are dense flavors of cranberry and pomegranate, plenty of natural acid, along with polished tannins and a soothing layer of toasty oak, that helps smooth the rough edges and buff up the finish. Hints of earth, leaf and tar add detail and interest all the way through a lingering finish.
This pure Syrah—the first reserve Syrah from Gorman—pulls out all the stops. It's a tannic, bold, earthy and powerful wine that's loaded with black fruits. Aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak, it takes the wood in stride, adding Red Mountain minerality to the mix.
This pure Touriga Nacional is full of black-currant fruit. Along with its mineral texture it has some good aging ability as well as the richness. Maybe a little less wood aging would have helped bring out the obvious fruitiness and fruit tannins of this wine. Drink from 2019.
This pure Touriga Nacional is perfumed, firmly tannic and packed with the tight, mineral character typical of the region. Richly fruity with juicy black currant flavor, it's still developing and will be best from 2019.
This pure varietal blend of Merlot opens fragrantly with scents of black raspberry, black cherry, plum and smoke. Very young, tight and firmly packed, it's a wine that is already showing finesse and a pleasing tension between the tart fruit and the toasty, mocha-flavored oak. Given time in the bottle, it may well prove to be one of the best-aging Beresan Merlots ever made.
This pure varietal bottling is compact and tannic. Blue and black fruits lean toward deep cassis flavors, with earth, pencil lead and peppery herb along for the ride. Chewy tannins and herbal flavors come up in the finish.
This pure varietal bottling spent 18 months in oak, emerging perfectly proportioned with deftly integrated flavors of berry and herb, and a touch of fresh snap peas. The tannins carry the characteristic green olive notes, and the finish offers the scent and flavor of ground coffee as well. Overall a very fine effort.
This pure varietal bottling spent two years in barrel. It's extremely leathery, dried out, and smells and tastes of the tack room. This is not terroir. It's most likely barrel-related.
This pure varietal effort includes 20% that was barrel fermented. This is flat-out delicious and overflowing with ripe fruits: a pleasing blend of oranges, peaches and papayas. It's rich enough to stand in for your favorite Chardonnay, while offering flavors that more closely resemble a New World take on a white Rhône blend.
This pure varietal expression of the grape is a steely svelte spicy red with unusual complexity. The tart and tangy fruit could be any wild-picked red berry, and the acids are like a squirt of citrus. But there's extra depth and interest from the hints of herb, seed, stone and metal that reward your attention. This should drink quite well now through the mid-2020s.
This pure varietal seems underripe, with scents of mushrooms and tar, and no fruit in sight. The finish turns bitter, with dry tannins.
This pure varietal wine conjures up apple and pear juice, finished dry and crisply defined. There is no particular nuance to it, but it's well made and quite quaffable.
This pure varietal wine exhibits good Viognier character, with plenty of interesting botanical highlights in nose and mouth. Citrus flavors dominate, with a medium-weight midpalate and moderately long finish.
This pure varietal wine is finished completely dry. Lightly spiced, with fruit flavors of waxy lemon, it seems to fall a bit flat once it hits the tongue. Drink up.
This pure varietal wine showcases rich, ripe cherry pie fruit backed up against a mineral-soaked base. Baking spice highlights and a streak of caramel reflect aging in 100% new French oak. Acids and tannins are proportionate and substantial.
This pure Vermentinu (the local spelling) is fragrant, crisp and deliciously fresh. With bright acidity as well as zesty white fruits and orange peel, it is perfumed and ready to drink for its freshness, or age until 2017 for extra richness.
This pure, bullish, smoky Tinto Fino is full of charred blackberry, cassis and licorice aromas. The palate is massive but superbly balanced. Flavors of mocha, black coffee, bitter chocolate, toast, blackberry and cassis finish with power and precision. Drink 2017–2025.
This pure, chiseled Albariño is light but right on the nose, with lime and stone aromas. Crisp yet comfortable, the palate delivers nectarine, apple and other familiar white-fruit flavors. A stony finish with crisp acidity and a leesy accent is lasting and attractive.
This pure, Columbia Valley Cabernet is blended from a variety of widely separated vineyards. The fruit is forward, pushing black cherry and cola notes to the front of the palate, layering in a streak of milk chocolate, and finishing with smooth, supple tannins.
This pure, focused, fruity wine practically dances on the tongue. Fresh strawberry and ripe raspberry aromas lead to similar lively, fruity flavors that wake up the tastebuds. Brisk acidity and moderate tannins add lift for a balanced, refreshing taste experience.
This pure, full-bodied Merlot coats the palate with purple fruits and a creamy mix of mint, spice and vanilla. The herbal highlights are subtle and proportionate, and it's a very flavorful wine for the price.
This pure, single vineyard Viognier enters the mouth rather soft and silky, with well-structured flavors of cantaloupe melon, grapefruit and pineapple. It shows good concentration, focus and length, and will age nicely for another five or six years.
This pure, supple, fruit-laden Syrah is loaded with wild blackberry fruit, and detailed veins of licorice, coffee, and iron filings. The wine's excellent length and polished tannins showcase exceptional handling of superb fruit.
This purple-tinted Carignan is a concentrated number with familiar varietal and regional aromas of latex, graphite, schist, tire rubber and black fruits. In the mouth, this is chewy and full bodied, but not heavy. Oaky spicy blackberry and nutmeg flavors linger on a mildly woody, extracted and gritty finish. Best to give this a few more years so drink through 2022.
This purple-tinted heavyweight smells rugged, scratchy and jammy, with horsey notes accenting currant and cranberry flavors. An aggressive palate is far from an easy ride, while plum, spice and herbal flavors end with juicy acidity.
This purple-tinted Monastrell offers ripe yet cool aromas of blackberry and cola that run smooth and long. A deep, bright, juicy palate is weighty but balanced. Dark berry flavors are lightly toasted with fine oak, while the finish is bold and fruity. Drink through 2018.
This purple Carignan smells jammy, with an infusion of raw oak. In the mouth, high acidity creates ample energy to balance the full body and structured tannins. Flavors of ripe blackberry and plum linger on the robust finish. Drink through 2022.
This purple saturated Malbec opens with powerful aromas of cola, tree bark and spiced blackberry. A saturated, extracted, highly tannic palate amounts to a heavy load, while baked and blackened berry flavors include a strong shot of chocolate. On the finish, more chocolate along with fig and baked berry flavors seal this rich ripe offering. Drink through 2022.
This puts the spotlight on a single Dijon clone and delivers polished cherry fruit. It follows through with hints of graphite and the underlying minerality that is characteristic of this AVA. The wine is young and should be decanted, having spent just nine months in barrel prior to bottling.
This quaffable white blend opens with minerally vitamin-like aromas along with touches of peach pit and apple. The palate is good in a generic way, while apple, pear, melon and mild spice flavors finish exactly the same.
This quaffer has a touch of sweetness and plump tropical-fruit flavors. It's not too serious but goes down easy.
This quickly veers from being delicately light into simply sour and grassy. Cucumber- and tart melon-flavored fruit fades into a short finish.
This quiet Albariño comes from the Vicente Gandia family of wines. It opens with short, peppery aromas backed by a medium-bodied palate. Peppery, slightly bitter flavors echo the nose, with a hint of stone fruit to help it along. Drink now.
This quinta is in the Rio Torto Valley in the heart of the Port vineyards. The wine is rich, sweet fruited, ripe with jammy blackberries and great perfumes. Open, already drinkable in a fruity way, it is likely to age over the medium term.
This quintessential young Chianti Classico is composed of 90% Sangiovese, 10% Pugnitello and 10% Colorino. The juicy palate bursts with ripe black cherry, raspberry, black pepper and cinnamon-spice. Smooth and delicious, it's ready to be enjoyed soon.
This quirky medium-bodied wine has a flavor spectrum all its own. It smells floral and tastes like spiced red candy, and is noticeably sweet.
This quite tart, young and spicy red pulls sharp and puckery cranberry fruit into focus. It's best enjoyed chilled, and would be a fine option for the base of a wine punch.
This racy and leesy young wine offers fresh and crisp flavors of cucumber, celery, jicama and green apple. Despite all the green components, it is not herbal or vegetal, and offers a precise, delicately crafted and ageworthy take on the grape.
This racy Cab smells a touch scalped, with modest, slightly candied cherry and raspberry aromas. On the palate, this is balanced but basic. Flavors of plum, black currant and a dash of salt finish firm and warming.
This racy white opens with scents of cut grass, tomato vine and grapefruit. The zippy, rather lean palate offers citrus, pineapple and a mineral note alongside bracing acidity.
This racy, fresh, cool-vintage blend is a touch rubbery on the nose, with berry and cassis undertones. A tight palate delivers a mix of dark plum, blackberry, baking spice and chocolate flavors in front of a peppery, dry, crisp finish. Drink through 2019.
This racy, textural white wine presents a mix of wet stone and sweet yellow apple flavors. Bright and persistent, it is surprisingly rich, almost unctuous, and almost demands a second glass, or a second bottle if you must share it.
This racy, vivid wine carries an Oregon AVA, but the fruit is principally sourced from warm sites in the Columbia Gorge. Bright raspberries are set amidst sappy acidity, and the structure brings both precision and vitality into play.
This radiant red opens doles out succulent sour cherry, crushed strawberry, orange zest and a nuance of almond alongside bright acidity and delicate tannins. It delivers easy-drinking pleasure, so enjoy soon.
This radiant white opens with scents of stone fruit, blackcurrant, crushed herb and cut grass while the vibrant palate doles out honeydew melon, white peach, mineral and a hint of sage. Crisp acidity leaves a clean, tangy finish.
This radiant wine opens with heady aromas of white flower, honey, beeswax and citrus zest. The elegant palate shows class and pedigree, offering nectarine, aromatic herb and white stone fruit alongside lively acidity. An energizing mineral note closes the lingering finish.
This radiant, fragrant Nebbiolo opens with a potpourri of scents including aromatic herb, leather, cedar, pressed rose petal and dark spice. The luminous, subtle palate is loaded with finesse, delivering juicy red cherry, cinnamon, star anise, white pepper and pipe tobacco. It's impeccably balanced, with noble tannins and bright acidity. Drink now or hold for even more complexity. Drink through 2032.
This radiates fragrance and spice: ferns and pepper, yeast and juicy, yellow pear, mirabelle plums and aloe vera. All of this is on both the nose and the palate and is combined in a harmonious, balanced parcel of rounded goodness. It treads a fine line between opulence and freshness but does not stray from its perfect high wire act.
This Randall Grahm wine, which also includes 9% Mourvèdre and 2% Syrah, hits the nose with tight raspberry juice, hibiscus, cola and iron aromas, proving tight and mineral-driven. Pencil lead leads the lighter palate, which also shows brisk pomegranate, black and white pepper and a menthol-like Sichuan-peppercorn sensation on the finish. It's a tremendous wine for the price.
This range of wines comes from different regions of the southwest. The white comes from Gascony and is typical local blend. It is crisp and fruity with a soft texture from the ripe Colombard. There is a light dancing character to this lively, fruity wine. Drink now.
This ranks among the producer's biggest, boldest and most luxurious wines, a celebration of all that the appellation can offer in a stellar vintage. Integrated tannins provide structure without distraction, while layers of red berry, currant and leather combine for a dry, ripe and rewarding mouthfeel. This should be best between 2023 and 2025.
This ranks as a good no-frills white wine from central Spain. Viura is at its best when it's crisp, clean and tastes like apples and honeydew. And for the most part, that's exactly what this is. There's freshness and scour, but it's not acidic or sharp. Still, best to drink it as soon as possible.
This rare blend of Cabernet, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Touriga Nacional works surprisingly well, emphasizing tannic structure rather than fruit. The acidity of the Cab is what keeps it from being heavy, while the dense color and herbal flavors show its southern warmth and richness. Dried plums and fresh acidity to finish.
This rare bottling of this variety displays aromas of pear and spice along with whiffs of tropical fruit. It's on the lighter side of medium bodied with a creamy, slightly unctuous feel.
This rare Greek variety expresses itself here with aromas of lime and quince, and fresh green flavors of citrus and cucumber. Refreshing but also creamy. A unique wine that will pair well with grilled fish or octopus.
This rare intrusion of Sauvignon Blanc into Burgundy is in the small northern vineyard of Saint-Bris, close to Chablis. This wine is fruity with a herbal character that is balanced by the crisp citrus and melon flavors. Drink the wine now.
This rare library release from Jamesport is another great testament to how age worthy Long Island wine can be. At 12 years of age, it's remarkably fresh, with crisp, red cherry and plum flavors, layered with shades of clay, savory herbs and brine. Lively with acidity, it's powerful on the palate but elegant in style.
This rare single-vineyard rosé is all Syrah. Pale peach in color, it brings aromas of blood orange and strawberry that are followed by a textured lively palate with an extended finish. It's one of the best rosés the state has produced to date.
This rare single-vineyard, single-varietal offering of Petit Verdot has brooding aromas of high-toned flowers, fresh herbs, cherry and coffee. It's full bodied but doesn't overwhelm with its brawny, well-integrated tannins, reserved fruit flavors, bright acid and long finish.
This rare survival comes from Ramisco grapes planted on their own rootstock on sandy soil close to the Atlantic Ocean. Considering its great age, the wine is remarkably fruity and fresh. With a tarry texture and firm tannins it also has layers of red-cherry fruit and acidity. The wine is impressive, and not just a relic. Drink immediately after opening; it does fade quickly.
This rare unclassified growth from Saint-Julien has all of the elegance you would expect, and it balances firm tannins with a classic black-currant flavor. It has dark, structured tannins, with layers of wood and acidity on the fragrant finish. Keep this for many years.
This rare varietal bottling has lightly volatile aromas of Dimetap, raspberries, woodspice and herbs. Cranberry, raspberry and rose-hip flavors are full bodied and show purity. Drink now.
This rare varietal offering, blended with 25% Petite Sirah, displays notes of dark plum, herbs and black and green olive. The fruit flavors are sweet, lush and concentrated with abundant olive flavors on the finish.
This rare Walla Walla Roussanne comes on crisply with a mix of melon, pineapple and lime. It's tart and fresh and lightly minty, with persistent and clean fruit flavors.
This rare white wine from a vineyard in Saint-Emilion is produced by Gérard Perse of Château Pavie. Now mature, this ripe, bitter-almond and spice flavored wine shows a touch of scorched wood. As a contrast, there is a rich, almost buttery character that gives the wine a full texture. Ready to drink.
This rare, single vineyard (McClellan Estate) Petit Verdot takes some of the toughness out of the grape. It shows floral scents and accents, bright berry fruit, and finishing flavors of cracker and nougat. It's nicely balanced, with fine tannins and no bitterness.
This rarely explored grape, also known as Trebbiano, proves quite exciting in this bottling. Aromas recall ripe lime flesh, white flowers, green apples, Asian pears and white peach, with a nearly tropical banana sap character. The palate tightens around the limey acidity, showing some ripe red apple, but remaining bright, ready to pair with everything from roast chicken to shellfish.
This rarely seen variety (a hybrid from a cross of a French grape with an indigenous North American one) brings notes of ash, green olive and an assortment of berries. It's medium bodied with a low-alcohol feel and cranberry-like tartness.
This raspberry-flavored wine is soft and ripe. While it is fruity, it also has a nutty character that gives it a rich taste. It's dry and in a style that will make it better with food than by itself.
This Rasteau-based estate has turned out a plummy, savory blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignan aged solely in concrete. The plum fruit is pronounced, balanced by hints of asphalt and some dusty tannins on the finish.
This rather chunky example of Tasmanian Pinot Noir isn't typical of the genre, but impresses for its bold black-cherry fruit. Some menthol-like notes give it a slightly medicinal quality, but the persistent finish and fine tannins more than compensate. Drink this idiosyncratic effort over the next 4–5 years.
This rather closed wine has layers of sulfur that have suppressed the fruit. It's cool, neutral and dull.
This rather deeply hued, yellow-gold wine offers aromas suggesting orchard fruit, toasted almond and crushed rock. The palate shows tart apple and green pear accompanied by vibrant acidity.
This rather exotic Riesling was fermented and aged in barrels, 43% new, and the rest once-used. The barrel treatment takes it away from any ordinary Riesling characteristics, yielding a wine that has much in common with Viognier—floral and buttery, with substantial alcohol.
This rather old-fashioned (Wente clone) Chardonnay is full-flavored, with fruit front and center. Apples and pears are there in abundance, but the wine doesn't develop much layering.
This rather soft and approachable wine offers tart green apple fruit with a delicate hint of honey and brown sugar. That sweetness is not to say it's a dessert wine: there's plenty of backing acidity. It's just a nice gentle nuance.
This rather sweet wine leads with heady floral aromas that recall red and white roses. The off-dry palate offers lemon zest, pink grapefruit and ripe apple alongside fresh acidity. Try this as an apéritif.
This rating is a follow-up to one we did about a year ago, and it doesn't seem as though this wine is making any progress. It's still clumsy as an ox, with stark pineapple flavors and overt acidity. Citrus juice is the best way to describe it; it bears little to no resemblance to Chardonnay as we know it.
This rating is probably as much a reflection of tasting the wine too late in its evolution as anything else. At this mature state, the wine is heavy and syrupy, with stalky, almost bitter red-fruit flavors. Finishes with matchstick and grassy flavors. Wait for the 2011.
This ready-to-drink wine opens with berry and plum aromas layered with subtle oak. The palate is smooth and round, with blackberry, mocha, white pepper and mint flavors alongside polished tannins.
This ready to drink wine seems tailor-made for many—loaded with blueberry fruit, it's a soft, smooth, easy-drinking style. The rich streaks of vanilla and milk chocolate keep it satisfying to the very end.
This really elegant Pinot Noir has good color as well as a perfumed, aromatic character. The fruit is ripe cherries, supported by a light tannic layer. Acidity gives this wine freshness as well as suggesting that it could age. Drink from 2017.
This really gets the tastebuds whistling, with brisk acidity that brightens the lemon, lime and orange flavors. Even though it's rich in honey flavor, it finishes dry.
This reasonably full-bodied Chardonnay manages to retain a sense of freshness and crispness throughout. Subtle oak and vanilla notes frame peach and pineapple fruit, while the finish is long and citrusy clean.
This reasonably priced Hermitage shows the appellation's hallmark gamy notes. It's a sturdy, moderately full-bodied wine with a richly textured finish. Drink now–2025.
This recent addition to the lineup at DeLille blends Cabernet from Klipsun, Ciel du Cheval, Grand Ciel and Upchurch vineyards. It's a fine effort, structured like the scaffolding on a high-rise building, narrow and vertical, with a spine of steel and a core of cassis. Firm acidity completes the picture.
This recently released 2002 is still showing its youth, with a firm, mineral edge to it. But it does have the right refreshingly crisp character, along with intense fruits, and acidity that just powers right through. Wait 3–4 years.
This Recioto opens with a beautiful, vibrant ruby color with purple highlights and deep dimension only to segue into typical aromas of bramble, blueberries, blackberry and chopped herbs. It's got power, sweetness and structure with chewy, tart tannins. Recioto is an ancient wine made with the same blend of grapes that goes into Amarone. Pair this sweet red with dried cinnamon cakes, chocolate-based desserts or a selection of aged cheeses.
This red-colored barrel-fermented rosé of Tempranillo and Merlot smells funky and gummy. Flat on the palate, this tastes of pickled red cabbage: charmless and difficult to get through.
This red-colored rosé smells a bit briny, like pickled strawberry. The palate is somewhat round, with initial flavors of raspberry and strawberry that turn a bit peppery on the finish.
This red-currant and red-berry flavored wine is bright and fruity. It does have some wood-aging flavors that add spice and a dry edge. The juicy acidity at the end keeps it all fresh.
This red-fruit-dominated Garnacha smells of earthy cherry and plum along with orange peel. A racy, chewy, slightly rough palate of pie cherry, red plum, raisin and chocolate finish juicy and aggressive.
This red-fruit-dominated Pinot Noir is a tart, tannic embrace of earthy minerality, with a tease of citrus. Bright, persistent acidity keeps it fresh and forgiving, making it balanced and food-friendly.
This red-fruited, ripe wine has attractive bright acidity and some weight. It's dry and probably better suited to food than as an apéritif.
This red-label cuvée is made exclusively from estate-grown fruit. Lively and aromatic, it carries a streak of beetroot threaded through blackberry fruit. It's tight and tense, like a coiled spring, suggesting that some additional bottle age will help to open it up. The concentration is impressive, and the flavors continue on through a lengthy finish, with a suggestion of gunmetal as it subsides.
This red-tinged rosado hits the nose with sharp and herbaceous scents. A drawing palate with sour citrus flaand pyrazines ends equally raw, tart and green.
This red-tinted, full-bodied rosé is strained on the nose, with a strong, distinct whiff of wet animal fur. The palate feels heavy and unfocused, while flavors of plum skins and nectarine finish bitter and without any crispness or cleansing properties.
This red-violet-colored wine has a bouquet of raspberry and lingonberry. Velvety tannins create a backdrop for flavors of blackberry, cranberry, vanilla and fennel. Notes of cranberry shine through on the bright finish.
This red-violet-colored wine has cherry and chocolate aromas. It's well constructed, with softly gripping tannins and overall sense of brightness. Blackberry, black currant, toffee and basil flavors coalesce in a slightly spicy but juicy finish.
This red aims for smoothness and easy drinkability. It smells like black plums, tastes medium-bodied, slightly sweet, and has a touch of tannin to balance it out. One of many new brands produced at the Terravant Wine Co.
This red blend commences with aromas of red currant, black berries, spice and blue flower. The spicy palate delivers black pepper, nutmeg, sour cherry and ripe raspberry sensations that are restrained by fresh acidity and bracing tannins. Hold for complexity. Drink 2015–2021. Trilussa Wine, J.W. Sieg Wines.
This red blend features a nose of raspberry, fennel bulb, oregano and lavender. Mouth-pleasing flavors of ripe cherry, anise, orange zest and anise are wrapped in smooth tannins. It is full in the mouth, offering a lingering finish punctuated by a burst of pomegranate.
This red blend from Central Italy shows thick concentration and an inky dark appearance that is enhanced by ripe aromas of prune, blackberry jam, plum and tobacco. This is a dark, rustic and hearty red wine with a dense, velvety texture.
This red blend from Hungary is garnet in color with aromas of cranberry and black cherry. Flavors suggest tart cherry and pomegranate juice, with grippy tannins and an acidic finish.
This red blend from Moldova is composed of 70% Feteasca Neagra and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. It has scents of black pepper, black plum juice and a whiff of jalapeño. In the mouth there are flavors of dried plum, cinnamon, clove and persistent sweet tannins in the finish.
This red blend from Umbria offers a decadent bouquet that consists of rich chocolate and bright cherry intensity. The wine is smooth and chewy with a plush, velvety texture.
This red blend has a nose of fresh cherry, red plum and clove. In the mouth, it offers a combination of fruit and spice flavors featuring anise, black plum, Chinese five spice, and black cherry. There is a burst of still-youthful acidity on the finish, but this should be drunk within the next year or two.
This red blend has characteristics of late-harvested grapes from a cool year. Aromas of prune and blueberry are cool and mellow but not lifted. The palate is smooth, with blackberry, baked plum and chocolate flavors. A mild, slightly pasty tasting finish is rich but hollows out quickly. Drink now.
This red blend has ripe tannins and a dusty core of leather that frame rich red fruit on the palate. A partnership between singer Dave Matthews and winemaker Steve Reeder of Simi Winery in Healdsburg, it's fairly priced and accessible, with moderate alcohol and a soft, medium-weight body. It contains mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
This red blend is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Syrah—peppery, tannic, and fruity. A jam and toast style, it shows some heat in the finish.
This red blend is a bit confected on the nose, with vanilla cookie, condensed berries and molasses notes pervading. The palate is rich and flabby, with similar flavors as the nose and bitter tannins on the finish.
This red blend is comprised of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 15% Saperavi and 5% Rara Neagra. It has aromas of black plum, saddle leather, black pepper and menthol. In the mouth there are flavors of sour cherry and dried plums with a velvety tannic finish.
This red blend is comprised of 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. It has aromas of perfumed violet talc and red raspberry. Flavors of cherry vanilla and tart pomegranate partner with fine tannins, finishing with a nice splash of fruit acidity.
This red blend is dry, tannic and coarse. It's also packed with cherry and blackberry jam flavors.
This red blend is nicely dry, with abundant of dark plum and pomegranate flavors and a full-bodied, moderately tannic mouthfeel. It's easy to drink but bold enough to pair with hearty proteins.
This red blend is snappy but also jammy on the nose, with a blueberry aroma and a pinch of green. The mouthfeel is syrupy and big, with jammy flavors of baked berry and cherry. On the finish, there's enough acidity to keep it fresh as the red berry and cassis flavors take over.
This red blend of 34% Babic, 33% Plavina and 33% Lasin has delightful aromas of tart cherry pie fresh out of the oven. There's lots of bright fruit and fresh acidity in the finish.
This red blend of 59% Zinfandel, 20% Petite Sirah, 14% Syrah and 7% Malbec has depth and concentration, as well as length. It has flavors of black and red berries, accented by cinnamon.
This red blend of 67% Syrah and 33% Mourvedre immediately announces itself as serious and classy. The bouquet is layered with berry fruit and baking spice aromas that aren't hard or pushy. It feels stout and secure, with its structure supporting flavors of concentrated berry, pepper and baking spice. The long finish keeps its form. Drink now–2015.
This red blend offers a nose of spiced wood, tobacco and pepper, and on the palate, light, simple flavors of red fruit and cigar box. There's a lot of oak here, venturing into a maple syrup character, and overall, the wine is a bit clunky, but it's reasonably priced and from a unique location, giving it a fun spin.
This red blend offers aromas of black-skinned fruit, cedar, coffee and anisette. On the palate, dried black cherry and black currant make up the core while espresso, clove and tobacco play supporting roles. Grippy tannins hold it all together.
This red blend offers aromas of black cherry, dried plum and dried cherry. Flavors of red and black plums come with a touch of dark chocolate in the finish.
This red blend opens with aromas of mature black plums, vanilla, oak, underbrush and toast. The palate offers dried black cherry, prune, black pepper and espresso, alongside drying wood tannins.
This red blend relies mostly on Cabernet Sauvignon, adding smaller amounts of Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soft, spicy and impressively lengthy, it's highlighted in blackberry, currant and toasty oak, concentrated and complex.
This red blend shows its 51% Cabernet roots with strong red cherry and ripe plum fruit. Throughout, the notes of vanilla, cinnamon toast, and cream vie for attention over the likeable fruit. The snug, particulate tannins and alcohol heat make for a mouthfilling experience.
This red blend starts with aromas of cocoa, cinnamon and vanilla, followed by a wave of cherry, nutmeg and pepper on the palate. The wine has an earthy character and bold structure. Pair with feta and lamb, or olive tapenade.
This red blend, made of 65% Syrah, 28% Mourvèdre and 7% Tannat is a fresh and fruity wine that's ready to drink now. Dark berries and a touch of sweet oak flesh out the mouth, with a clean and refreshing finish.
This red blends Xinomavro, the “acid black” grape found most in Macedonia, and Syrah. The Xinomavro gives the wine its tannic, slightly spiky edge, while Syrah rounds the character out with juicy fruit and softer spices. Overall, an assertive, ageworthy red that will pair well with grilled lamb or beef.
This red boasts aromas of cranberry, red plum, geranium, rooibos, tar and licorice. These notes unfold onto the palate and are met with soft hints of coconut and vanilla. The tannins are soft and velvety, the acidity is zippy and active, and the finish is long and juicy.
This red combines Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon to create black currant and Mediterranean herb aromas. The easygoing, approachable palate shows black cherry and dark spice flavors, framed by polished tannins. Enjoy soon.
This red comes from one of the appellation's most important vineyards. Immense amounts of black peppercorn and raw beef show on the nose of this awesome bottling, which also offers soy-crusted meats that are gamy but not harsh. Rosemary oil, pine needle and peppercorns decorate the palate. It has a meaty lamb-roast richness at its core.
This red dessert wine offers cedar, cocoa and hazelnut on the nose, followed by expressive flavors of bitter orange and dark chocolate on the palate. Cedar and citrus add to the complexity. Overall, quite delicious and exotic.
This red has a fruity, jammy nose with a peppery kick. On the palate it's a mixture of spicebox, cherry, coffee and pepper. Approachable and well made—a good everyday drinking red.
This red has a plummy, juicy nose that leads into a fresh, tart blend of cherry and strawberry. Fresh and fruity, it's an approachable red with added character.
This red has a wide and broad personality that encompasses aromas of black fruit, leather and tobacco. There's less fresh fruit here: the wine definitely focuses on oak-driven tones, but it is lively enough to pair with roasted meat or dishes that require a touch of juicy succulence.
This red interlaces juicy red fruit with soft, elegantly rendered layers of tannin and oak. It's highlighted with crisp acidity, its tart cranberry and red currant flavors complemented by a dusting of subtle dried herb.
This red is a hunting lodge in a glass, with aromas of leather, game, cigar and cedar on the nose, followed by flavors of blueberry, cigar box and vanilla on the palate. Pair this with earthy fare, such as steak, grilled duck or dried sausage.
This red is made from 70% Merlot, with smaller additions of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Eucalyptus and bay laurel dominate on the nose, as thick tannins resolve softly in the glass. Peppercorn, licorice and black cherry combine to offer big flavor and length, making way for a powerful finish.
This red is mostly Syrah (59%), and this variety speaks up with its appealing notes of blueberry, boysenberry and spice. The palate is lighter in style, with silky smooth, fleshy fruit flavors that keep you coming back for more.
This red is roughly split between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. It spent time in 40% new French oak and shows density and grip. There are substantial acids, bright black fruits and a streak of black tea among the flavors.
This red is smoothly seductive in its lineage of cedar, pencil lead and undercurrent of lifted cassis and red cherry. Lengthy and full bodied, it is generously lush and brooding on the palate, with plenty of length on the smoky, peppery finish.
This Red Mountain cuvée falls nicely between the winery's Columbia Valley and single-vineyard offerings. Raspberry and cassis fruit, young and compact, is underscored with chalky minerality and suggestions of dried herbs. The tannins are ripe and astringent. This is a spot-on steak wine.
This Red Mountain Syrah spent a year in French oak, half new, half once-used. The fruit is wrapped in smoke and coffee, graphite and mineral scents and flavors. Crystal clear and densely packed, this shows none of the funk common in many Washington Syrahs, but an almost claret-like structure and grip. It should age well for a decade or longer.
This red offers bright berry and violet in its pretty, perfumed nose, followed by soft, integrated cherry and pepper flavors. The wine has an impressive complexity and a spicy, lingering finish. Pair with cheeses, duck, turkey.
This red offers tightly wound strawberry and cassis around spicy leather and medium-boned weight and length.
This red opens with reticent jammy aromas that expand to include licorice and asphalt notes. The wine is so saturated that it weighs down on the palate. Flavors of savory berry fruits are matched by saucy tomato and spice notes. On a sinewy finish, tomato sauce, raspberry and red-plum flavors stick out. Drink through 2026.
This red Passito dessert wine from Tuscany offers bittersweet aromas of wild cherry, raspberry, cassis and cola. It makes a simple but clean impression in the mouth and would pair with chocolate brownies or cherry pie.
This red pushes a pretty cherry fruit flavor forward, letting the fruit rather than new barrels, do the talking. It's a tasty, with good balance and medium length.
This red showcases characteristic aromas of red fruit, cola and barbecue spice, with a soft, velvety close.
This red sources from across three appellations and four varieties, all aged in a mix of French and American oak for one year. That oak imparts a smoky element around thick, concentrated baked fruit and big, lasting tannin weight, showing plenty of leathery tobacco.
This red starts with aromas of dried forest fruit, crushed herbs and red fruit, and on the palate, classic, elegant waves of dried fruit, spice and black pepper. Spicy and dry but softened at the edges by cherry fruit, it's a classy red with versatile pairing ability.
This red starts with black fruits and pepper aromas, followed by waves of black cherry, cocoa, pepper and red berry. Rich and mellow, it's a classy sip that will pair well with duck, roasted meats.
This red wine has brisk tannins that frame blackberry and currant flavors, with a meat note and lots of peppery spice. It's bone dry, and while it's a little rustic, it's easy to drink with lamb and beef dishes.
This red wine is ripe and structured. It is has a finely textured mineral character that's typical of the Dão region. Rich berry and spicy fruits are dominant with attractive acidity. Behind this fruit, the tannins give a fine shape to a wine that is ready to drink now.
This red wine might just make you purr with satisfaction. It delivers everything you want in a Merlot. It's dry, but soft, with plush tannins and rich flavors ranging from red cherries and currants to cocoa, violets and cedar.
This red wine named simply Blend is – guess what! – a mix of Columbia valley grapes, including Syrah, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and Grenache. This is bigger and spicier than Sineann's other blend, called simple Red Table Wine, and shows more concentration. The acids and tannins are in a stand-off at the moment, but throw a steak into the mix and you'll have a party.
This red wine, named for the chef at the winery restaurant, is fruity and high-toned, with lots of cherry and berry flavor. All neutral oak, soft tannins, ready to drink.
This red, made from 61% Cab Sauv, 30% Shiraz and 9% Merlot, offers attractive floral aromas of lavender, baby powder and light menthol (like a Thin Mint) to the soft but ripe dark fruit notes. The mouth offers more spice and weight than the aromas would suggest, with a firm but approachable structure and cigar box spice on the medium-length finish.
This reddish-pink quaffer smells like cherry gumballs. Soft and flush, with mild rose hip and berry flavors, this finishes dry and hollow. Drink immediately.
This reddish-pink rosé of Syrah is clean up front, with touches of yeast, chewing gum and red fruits on the nose. Fairly full-bodied as rosé goes, this tastes fruity but nondescript, while the finish is similar before showing some sweetness.
This reedy smelling, jammy boxed wine is on the cusp of acceptability. It's gooey in feel, a bit fake and sugary in flavor, and sticky on the finish.
This reedy, strained Garnacha features cheesy aromas, stalky fruit and chemical notes. The palate is hard in feel, with a weedy, burnt aftertaste.
This refined Malagouzia starts with a fleshy peach and melon nose, followed by pronounced flavors of peach, citrus and spice on the palate. Balanced and pretty, the fruit tones linger on the finish.
This refined sparkling wine has a classic Franciacorta fragrance of candied fruit, almond and just a whiff of vanilla. The palate delivers ripe peach and nut flavors andd a hint of bread crust. Fine perlage and a crisp, quenching finish.
This refined white opens with delicate aromas of cut grass, chamomile flower and citrus. On the vibrant palate, firm acidity supports grapefruit and kiwi, while a mineral vein energizes the finish.
This refined, gorgeous and integrated Cabernet features ripe raspberry and cassis flavors, with a subtle swirl of cinnamon and a wall of supple tannins. This wine will age another 5–7 years. Pair it with a steak.
This reflects the big, modern style of Mendoza Malbec. The bouquet is ripe and hefty, with coconut, mint, blackberry and almond cookie aromas. Expect thick, rugged tannins along with toasty flavors of black coffee, chocolate and mint. A dark, fruity finish is more subtle and harmonious than specific. Drink through 2018.
This reflects the Yarra region's Pinot Noir character well, combining earthy, cola- and beet-scented notes with well-ripened tannins and medium body. There's a fair bit of textural richness for such a modestly priced Pinot. Drink now.
This Refosco (a native grape of northeast Italy) opens with plush, ripe fruit flavors and then follows with bitter acidity that comes as quite a surprise. Pair this wine with butter- or cheese-based dishes that will help diminish that sharp acidic bite.
This refreshing and crisply designed Viognier conveys restrained aromas of white peach and vanilla. The palate shows yellow melon and creamy peach, but with a razor-sharp edge of acidity and a compelling chalky texture. The acid sizzles into the finish.
This refreshing and light-bodied Grüner also has a rounder, riper aspect, referencing flavors of red apple and green pear. While the nose does not give away that much, concentration characterizes the midpalate before an easy, super-clean finish.
This refreshing aromatic wine will appeal to the sailors with its nautical theme. It is light and fruity, just touched by spice and with lemon and red-currant fruitiness. The wine is lively and bright at the end.
This refreshing Chardonnay—with aromas of grapefruit and lemon and flavors of zesty grapefruit and lemon zest—is anchored by a weight that gives it balance. Overall, the wine finds a great middle ground and is food friendly.
This refreshing Millesimato expression of Prosecco offers a crisp, tonic mouthfeel capped by aromas of white flower, peach and citrus. There's very nice sharpness and definition here overall.
This refreshing Pinot Grigio has all its cards in place and offers pretty aromas of peach, Golden Delicious apple, honey and green melon. It tastes fresh and has sweet tones of yellow fruit and honey.
This refreshing Pinot Grigio opens with delicate aromas of white spring flower and pear. The easygoing palate offers green apple and lemon-lime alongside zesty acidity.
This refreshing red starts with aromas of allspice, clove, mint and red berries, followed by flavors of tobacco, clove and cherry on the palate. A wine with some elbows, it could age for 3-5 more years. Pair with grilled meats.
This refreshing rosé, just slightly dilute, brings watermelon and strawberry with a touch of minerality. It's a blend of saignée and whole-cluster-pressed wine, aged half in steel and half in neutral wood.
This refreshing sparkling wine is made entirely from Chardonnay. It offers pear and Golden Delicious apple aromas and flavors, along with a hint of baked bread and almond notes. It's elegant, with a creamy texture and crisp acidity.
This refreshing sparkling wine made mostly from Pinot Noir grapes has a light-gold color and slightly toasted or earthy aromas. It feels lively and frothy in texture, nicely crisp in balance, and medium bodied. Ripe apple and peach flavors emerge with each sip.
This refreshing white from Sardinia has a dried floral fragrance with a whiff of Mediterranean herbs. The palate offers creamy white peach and mineral flavors that finish crisp and clean.
This refreshing white opens with aromas that recall honeysuckle, citrus and ripe orchard fruit. On the palate, rich flavors of white peach, yellow apple and pear are balanced with fresh acidity. A note of bitter almond closes the finish.
This refreshing white wine rewards with beautiful tones of stone fruit, mineral and melon over a compact, well-built structure. Pair it with pan-fried dumplings or other dim sum specialties.
This refreshing wine comes from one of the Premier Cru sites on the north-facing bank of the Serein river. It's structured, tight and full of fine acidity and grapefruit and crisp apple flavors. Its texture and mineral character will allow it to age. Drink from 2019.
This refreshing wine from the Seze family of Fronsac is light, crisp and packed with fruit. Crisp with citrus flavors it is ready to drink now.
This refreshing wine has lively acidity followed by red fruits and a soft texture. It is a round wine, hinting at sweetness because of the ripeness.
This refreshing wine is clean and dry, with grapefruit, peach and honeysuckle flavors boosted by high, tingly acidity. Made Sancerre-style, it leaves behind a spicy, fruity aftertaste.
This refreshing wine is redolent of stone fruit, citrus and tangerine skin. It's an easy, food-friendly effort.
This refreshing wine offers aromas of honeydew melon and guava. A palate-pleasing combination of green apple, nectarine and eucalyptus culminate in a mint-tinged finish.
This refreshing, racy, frothy and focused red delivers raspberry, strawberry, orange zest, white pepper and dried black-cherry aromas and flavors. Made from 100% Lambrusco Salamino, it's vibrant, with a crisp, dry finish.
This refreshing, well-made wine combines vibrant citrus flavors with richer ripe melon and apple notes for an interesting and enjoyable personality.
This refreshing, well-structured wine offers vivid but light fruit flavors, a crisp balance and mouthwatering texture. It has lots of fresh citrus flavors that will pair well with salty meats and all kinds of seafood.
This refreshingly balanced, light-on-its-feet wine doesn't hold back in terms of black fruit and subtle richness. The dark currant and cherry highlights are accented with dark chocolate, clove and white pepper notes, the oak quiet and supportive of the overall structure.
This region is known for producing lean whites from grapes that tend to be blousy in warmer zones, and this bottling is no exception. It shows crushed chalk, pomelo and gardenia aromas on the nose and is tense on the palate, its grippy white rock flavors accented with Granny Smith apple notes.
This regional bottling has been a strong suit of Testarossa over the years, a best-barrel blend from their far-flung coastal empire of vineyards. It's very rich in apricot, pineapple, honeysuckle and smoky oak flavors, and finishes dry and spicy. Shows an elegant complexity that should develop over the next six years.
This Reims-based cooperative's wine is fruity, with a nice mature character from aging. Its citrus and green plum fruit is balanced with soft acidity. The texture is creamy, ripe and ready to drink.
This relative newcomer from near Pisa is three-fourths Sangiovese and the remainder Merlot, and the mix is delightful. Black-plum aromas are hardened by the background scents of tar and leather, while soft, smooth tannins allow for a chocolaty, soft mouthfeel that steals the show. Rich, sweet and smooth.
This relatively full-bodied Pinot Grigio leans toward warm, baked-apple scents and flavors, blending ripe fruit with dried cinnamon and folding in hints of peach on the long finish. Has a lovely, caressing mouthfeel that underscores its comforting flavors.
This relatively lean wine focuses on pear and apple aromas and flavors. Some spearmint scents spice up the nose, while buttery nuances appear on the palate. Finishes a bit short, but with crisp and clean with herb notes, unencumbered by lots of oak.
This relatively light wine smells and tastes like strawberries and raspberries. It has good balance and a straightforward texture.
This relatively lightweight Pinot Noir features an array of meaty, earthy notes and a modest pie-cherry flavor before drying out and turning even more tart on the finish. Drink now.
This relatively low-alcohol Zinfandel offers dusty blue fruit and piles of earthiness around a core of juicy texture. Straightforward on the finish, with a hit of herb and fresh farm.
This relatively new partnership's wines have been up and down, but this one gets things just right. Black cherry and plum notes are ripe and pleasing, backed by some cedar and spice nuances. There's ample richness on the palate and a long, finely textured finish. Drink now–2017.
This relatively simple but satisfying wine hits all the basic Sauvignon Blanc notes: Melon, fig, citrus and grassy herbs. It's medium-bodied and boasts a decently long finish, too. Drink now.
This relatively small estate in the Awatere Valley continues to impress. The tomato leaf character of the region comes through loud and clear without being overbearing, being balanced by passion fruit and gooseberry flavors. It's reasonably full in body, yet finishes spicy, prickly and refreshing.
This relatively snappy SB reflects coastal Chile in a good, true way via minerally and citrusy aromas that include jalapeño notes. The palate is friendly but exact, with passion fruit, grapefruit and lime flavors. The minerally finish is sweeter and less acidic than in years past.
This relatively understated wine is less ebullient than the 2000s it was tasted alongside, but held its own, with green apple and lemon fruit underscored by smoky, earthy flavors. The lemony finish lingers a long time.
This release comes from the producer's own Durell Vineyard, specifically two blocks consistently used for this wine. Powerful ripeness and showy fruit rise on the nose and palate first, with an explosion of coconut water and burly oak. The wine was given 15 months in French oak, half of it new. Almonds, oranges and lemon rind combine before a dry finish. Drink now through 2021.
This release deserves some sort of award for consistency, year in and year out. The 2011 is light to medium in body and long, zesty and vibrant on the finish. Aromas and flavors of bergamot, honey (although the wine is completely dry) and toast are classic aged Eden Valley Riesling. Drink now–2030.
This release is always among my favorite Aussie Rieslings. Not only is the quality consistent, the price for a nearing-maturity wine makes it a winning value. It is smoky and toasty on the nose, showing off those developed aromas to good effect against a background of bergamot-tinged fruit. The round patina of age is balanced by great acid drive and a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2020.
This release of Luca Sanjust's monumental Merlot is more subdued than the previous vintage, but what it lacks in intensity it makes up for in elegance. Instead of bursting red fruit and thick density, this feminine wine offers bite-size bursts of soft cherry, forest floor and toasted almond. It's smooth and supple in the mouth.
This release represents a gigantic leap forward for Oberon in their basic Cabernet Sauvignon. Past releases have been so-so. This one's terrific. Blended from vineyards all over the valley, it shows all the hallmarks of a Napa Cab you want. It's dry, full-bodied and impressively ripe in blackberries, currants, licorice and oak, with a long, smooth finish.
This relies on its ripe fruit to convey the rich flavors of the Douro. Its black fruit flavors dominate the broad tannic structure, with a light hint of wood aging. It's bold, chunky and ready to drink.
This remains a richly textured and weighty rosé, despite the fact that its color seems lighter than previous vintages. It's almost entirely Grenache, with bits of Shiraz (4%), Cabernet Sauvignon (2%) and Dolcetto (1%) filling out the blend. Hints of berries, ripe melon and white chocolate end on a mouthwatering citrus note, but this is built for the beefy side of your grilling menu.
This remains quite tight, almost shuttered, with boysenberry fruit and sharp acidity. Hints of composted earth and somewhat tarry tannins may be attributed to the addition of 8% Malbec in the blend.
This remains tight and somewhat impenetrable, with focused, tart flavors of red berry, lemon and pineapple. The scent of oak references considerable time in 40% new barrels. Once the fruit flavors fade, it's mostly acid that remains in the finish.
This remarkable Cabernet was grown and produced by a longtime Mexican-American immigrant. It is an extraordinary wine, rich and full-bodied, explosive in sweetly ripe blackberries, cherries and black currants, yet given firmness by a firm minerality that must come from the soil. Defines André Tchelistcheff's description of Stags Leap Cabernets as an iron fist in a velvet glove. Drink now–2020.
This remarkable wine from the famed family-farmed, organic estate impresses immediately in its depth of concentration and stately grace, imparting a wealth of rose-garden compost and wild truffle on the nose. Within the vibrant range of sensual flavor is salted caramel, black cherry and chocolate, alongside a twist of saddle and campfire coffee. Its grip of focused tannin suggests years of aging potential; enjoy best from 2023 to 2033.
This remarkable wine offers soft luxury between its balance of fresh red cherry and cassis and the velvety grip of tannic concentration. Spiky persistent acidity guides a freshness of forest floor, sage and tobacco, the power entirely graceful in the glass.
This remarkably balanced semi-dry wine is intensely aromatic, with scents of preserved yellow peaches, saffron and spice. Juicy and ripe in stone fruit flavor, it's unabashedly forward, yet piercing acidity and delicate mineral tones lend elegance and style. Finishes with a lingering kiss of honey.
This remarkably bone-dry wine from a cool-climate vineyard shows black plum, smoked beef, cracked peppercorn and slate scents on the nose. The palate recalls cedar and sandalwood, along with charcoal, pepper and soy-like flavors, framed by chalky and firm tannins.
This represents a debut vintage from a brand new estate in a little-known corner of southern Tuscany made with consultant Michel Rolland. The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot and the results are savory and delicious, with lingering tones of blackberry, rum cake, spice and leather.
This represents a softer, more subtle side of the variety, holding back on overripeness in favor of simple leather, compost and black pepper. Touches of unearthed truffle offer the wine's one note of richness.
This represents the winery's attempt to recreate a Côte Rôtie-like wine. It's very similar to the regular bottling, with lots of ripe, fancy fruit, but it's oakier, with 50% new American barrels. What really distinguishes it, though, is its balance. The only complaint, and it's a minor one, is that the tannins are so soft, and the acidity so low, that it's a bit flabby. Most people won't notice or care.
This represents Torres' highest effort in Priorat, and it's a success. Perpetual deals freshly laid asphalt, cola and grilled char on the nose and then follows that up with black cherry, cassis and tobacco flavors. It's pure and ripe more than intellectual. Best 2009–2013; 60 cases produced.
This reserva blend of Tempranillo, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromas of lead pencil and mossy berry. The lively palate deals coconut, spice, lemon peel and wild berry flavors. This is a powerful wine that will benefit from airing.
This reserva from a warm year smells like crushed rocks, clay, wood smoke and spiced berry fruits. The palate is rubbery and tannic but bold, while oaky, roasted flavors of spiced black fruits and toast finish lightly baked and chocolaty. Drink through 2018.
This reserve-level bottling spends 15 months in French oak, and remains tight and hard, with blocky cranberry and strawberry fruit. It thins out quickly, with a reductive hint of rubber in the finish.
This reserve-level Cabernet—made from grapes sourced partly from 35-year-old vines—is lovely in its wealth of detail. A brambly, elegant mouthful of berry and cherry flavors mingles with a note of rose petal. The finish is soaked in graphite, with length, grip and finesse.
This reserve-level cuvée has been made since 2004, but in severely limited amounts. A mix of one-third new, one-third once-used and one-third neutral oak barrels aged the blend. Rich, tight and sappy, it shows generous ripe stone and tropical fruits, along with rich layers of butterscotch and toast. Drink now through 2025.
This reserve-level cuvée is the star of Goodfellow's Chardonnay lineup in 2014. Toasty, sleek and stylish, it deftly skirts the border of stone and tropical fruits, melding the best of both. Buttered-nut flavors coat the lingering finish. In short, here is a textbook example of Oregon Chardonnay.
This reserve-level effort is crisp and stylish. Fruit flavors mix melon, lime and pink grapefruit, nicely balanced against fresh, textural acids. About 20% of the blend was aged briefly in acacia.
This reserve-level Pinot from DDO is exceptional in every way. Silky, elegant and deeply-fruited, it marries a plush midpalate of red berries and cherries to compelling grace notes of pine needle, cola and mocha. Delicious and ageworthy; if past vintages are any indication, this can go until 2029.
This reserve-level wine from the Roserock vineyard, Domaine Drouhin's recent Eola-Amity Hills planting, is compelling. Dense and fragrant, it boasts a beguiling mix of rose, cocoa powder and Asian spice, like a magic carpet ride of flavor. A finishing note of chocolate-covered orange peel is the pièce de résistance.
This reserve-level wine is a barrel selection from a particular block of the vineyard. It's aromatic, with wet hay, raspberry and cherry scents. The flavors have a lightly spicy lift, punching through with a chipotle pepper-like edge but finishing on ripe fruit. Best through 2022.
This reserve-level wine is annotated with interesting highlights of iron, mint and tea leaf, all wrapped around a black-cherry core. There's a streak of cola running through it all, and just a hint of alcohol burn in the finish.
This reserve-level wine is down to just three barrels in this vintage. It's creamy and yet precisely defined, with generous layers of pineapple, lime, golden apple and lemon tea. A bracing minerality underscores gently oaked, finishing notes of melba toast and almond butter.
This reserve-level wine is meant to represent the best barrels of the vintage, coming from grapes grown on both the Schug Estate and Wildcat Vineyard, which makes up the majority at 80%. Austere on the nose, it offers chiseled acid as well as apricot, pear and a touch of mango. Complex and lengthy, it should become more interesting as the baby fat sheds.
This reserve-level wine is sublime in stone fruit and lime as well as pear. The oak used for aging this wine was all neutral, and the taste and impact of it is unobtrusive. While vibrant in fruit, it also offers richer hints of caramel and graham cracker in complex and balanced ways, ending with persistence.
This reserve-level wine shows extra concentration, though it comes with a slightly chalky mouthfeel. Raspberry and cherry fruit flavors are set against stiff, drying acids, and seem a bit blocky. Think of it as a chunky style of Pinot Noir, and pair it with a fat-inflected filet of wild caught salmon.
This reserve-series wine opens in honeysuckle, offering a wealth of floral aromas before unveiling a backbone of caramel oak. Starting fresh and crisp in acidity and citrus, it evolves in the glass to become richer and more unctuous in texture, with a boldness of baked apple.
This reserve-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Syrah (20%), Merlot (20%) and Malbec comes from Summit View and Les Collines vineyards. The dark cherry, herb, vanilla and plum aromas lead to silky fruit flavors that show restraint and polish.
This reserve-style wine primarily comes from Boushey Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Aromas of mineral, wood spice, bacon fat, herb and red fruit are followed by sultry, soft flavors that display a lot of elegance.
This reserve begins as a vineyard-block selection, and spends nine months in 100% French oak. It's bright and brambly, melding citrus skins and oils, fresh raspberries and cherries, and a touch of chocolate. There's a hint of dustiness as well, and it's drinking quite well already: no need to wait.
This reserve bottling spent 20 months in 50% new French oak. Spicy and complex, it deftly moves from pretty scents of lavender and blueberry into a firmly knit wine nuanced with nutmeg, star anise, ginger, citrus and tobacco. Drink now through 2020.
This reserve bottling takes the winery's basic 2011 Chardonnay and elevantes it with rich fruit and oak flavors. It's flamboyant in style with buttered toast, lemon custard, papaya and vanilla bean flavors, but balanced with good acidity.
This reserve bottling, done entirely in stainless, brings extra weight and depth, with an enticing floral top note. Oranges and citrus-peel aromas carry into the palate, and a sense of powdered sugar suggests that perhaps it wasn't fermented completely dry. In any event, it's complex, compact and commanding.
This reserve Cabernet is moving quickly toward full maturity, with a rich blend of cassis, figs and prunes, layered with streaks of stem and earth flavors. The tannins are beginning to dry out; it's a wine to drink up while it's at its peak.
This reserve is actually one of the winery's less expensive Chardonnays. It's full, fruity and forward, with a lush mix of pineapple, peaches and tropical fruits, buttressed with juicy acids and highlights of toasted nuts. Thoroughly delicious, and ready for immediate enjoyment.
This Reserve is higher in alcohol, oakier and contains more Cabernet Sauvignon than Bello's regular '10 Cab. But, like its sibling, the wine is all elbows, with the black currant and dark chocolate flavors sticking out from the other parts. The wine should have no trouble negotiating the years. Try it in 2020.
This reserve is only occasionally produced. A stunning wine, it's tight and packed with raspberry and cherry fruit that show great concentration, well-balanced acidity and ripe tannins. The barrel-aging brings in a nice lick of chocolate to this blend that includes a small amount of Petit Verdot.
This reserve is the best of Kason's 2007 releases, with cranberry fruit, minty spice, moderate tannins and overall balance. The thinness of the vintage shows through, and this will need to be drunk now, rather than cellared. Aging in 80% new French oak puts some toast into the finish.
This reserve level wine brings high-toned aromas of herbs, violets, bittersweet cocoa, mint and dark fruits. The palate displays layered, full-bodied cherry and chocolate flavors that show density and depth. It's an impressive display that captures the senses with its seamless feel.
This reserve offers rather light strawberry fruit, and some highlights of tobacco and milk chocolate. It spent 18 months in one-third new French oak. Despite the reserve tag and the excellent vintage, it comes across as simple and a bit dilute.