Treads the line between off-dry and sweet, with honey, apricot, orange, peach and vanilla flavors. With a hit of acidity on the finish, it's easy to drink and the alcohol is refreshingly low.
Treana has enjoyed great success with this blend of Viognier and Marsanne, which is one of the best Rhône-style white wines in California. The main reason is the source of the grapes. The vineyard, owned by the Wagners of Caymus, is stellar. The '06 is as rich and crisply acidic as ever, with fantastically complex, honeyed tropical fruit, apricot and floral flavors that taste like they have a touch of botrytis.
Treated now as a separate wine, rather than a second wine, with its own vineyard, Clos du Marquis has developed a dense, concentrated style. It is firm, chewy, the tannins in suspension in the rich fruit. Good aging potential.
Trebbiano d'Abruzzo is a white wine that delivers both structure and freshness wrapped around a core of pear, white flower and peach. This expression from the historic Valle Reale winery does a very nice job of living up to the grape's food-friendly reputation.
Trebbiano grapes are harvested from near Lake Garda in northern Italy to produce an easy, no-fuss wine that would pair well with seafood and white meat. This expression is light, lean and refreshing.
Trebbiano grapes from the beautiful Spoleto area of Umbria (also found in the areas of Montefalco and Trevi) have been carefully selected to produce this rich, golden white wine that would pair with veal or roast turkey. Aromas here include apricot, yellow rose, Golden Delicious apple and candied citrus.
Trebbiano is a workhorse Italian variety that will never achieve noble status, like Chardonnay, but in the right hands can be the perfect dry white wine. Cinnabar has done a great job. The wine is crisp and floral, with citrus, honeysuckle and spice flavors lightly touched by oak. Try with tempura dipped in soy sauce.
Trebbiano is part of that great family of Italian whites that refreshes and revitalizes the palate—especially on warm summer afternoons. Talamonti delivers a pristine expression with grassy notes, citrus and peach.
Trebbiano, Malvasia and a tiny percent of Chardonnay are blended to produce a sticky, slightly soft wine with lush tones of peachy fruit, cantaloupe and honey.
Trebbiano, Roscetto and Malvasia are blended to produce a clean and simple wine with sharp, clean lines backed by lively aromas of citrus, pear and Golden Delicious apple.
Trebbiano, Sémillon, Roussanne, Sauvignon and Pinot Bianco form this unique blend. It offers subtle tones of peach, pineapple and honeysuckle.
Tree bark and deep woods notes mix with plum notes for an intriguing opener, yielding to a palate with plummy, leathery flavors. Overall, it's a bit lean, but the finish shows admirable length and mouthwatering acidity.
Tree bark and pine needles mark the aromas, adding woodsy complexity and weight to ripe black cherries. Full and somewhat backward, this needs a few years to sort itself out and fully express its generous nature, but you can sense the future now in its power and velvety texture.
Tree bark, rubber and berry aromas get this blend going. The palate shows piquant, zesty acidity, which pumps up dry, herbal, tangy flavors of red-berry fruits. On the finish, it's all about rubber, pepper, herbs and tomato, all wrapped in zesty acidity.
Trefethen has been on a roll the last few years, producing some of Napa's most spectacular Cabernets. This bottling, which contains minor quantities of Petit Verdot and Merlot, spent 28 months in new French oak barrels. The fruit is incredibly ripe and intense, with flavors of black currants and chocolate-covered cherries. As hard as the tannins are, they must have been even more aggressive two or three years ago, so kudos to Trefethen for holding the bottle back for five years. This beauty is just now beginning its long journey. Drink now–2020.
Tremendous California richness in this Chardonnay. You can taste the sun in the ripe tropical fruit and peach flavors that are so pure and sweet tasting. Yet the acidity is brisk, and the finish is dry. Don't drink this complex wine too cold.
Tremendous concentration is evident right from the start. The deep color and intense black cherry and blackberry fruit start it off. Streaks of tar and red licorice power through a mouth-filling midpalate and into a finish with exceptional length and balance. Drink now through 2030.
Tremendously complex, offering ever-changing elements for the palate to discover. Cherries, raspberries, dusty spices, gingerbread, bacon fat, sweet vanilla, toast, they all flood together. Delicious, but seems a little soft, possibly lacking the structure to age.
Tremendously delicious, this bottling combines hedonistic flair with elegant depth, satisfying both carnal and intellectual desires. Waves of hot cherry pie with vanilla ice cream and cola spice show on the nose, but the sip grows more dry and refined. Black cherry is enhanced with crushed nutmeg, black pepper and a pinch of dill, balanced via underlying acidity and a leathery tannic frame.
Tremendously pretty with honeysuckle and apricot highlights and memorable texture as well as a bright, crisp finish, this Chardonnay makes for a very good food wine, its cool-climate grapes grown organically along the banks of the Russian River.
Tremendously rich and oaky, with butterscotch-inspired pineapple, golden mango pear and Meyer lemon flavors that are as rich as crème brûlée. Dramatic now, if a bit overpowering. Calls for carefully crafted foods of the richest level, like lobster.
Tremendously rich and ripe, this Pinot just dazzles the palate with waves of raspberries, cherries, cocoa, red licorice, bacon and other intense umami flavors. It's dry and silky, but the drawback is excessive softness.
Tremendously sweet in blackberry, chocolate and vanilla oak flavors, with a fine bite of acidity. It's a satisfying dessert wine for drinking with chocolate, or try pecan pie, but it would score far higher if it were richer.
Tremenel has an earthy fragrance of underbrush, tobacco and ripe black fruit with a whiff of spice. The palate delivers a tight core of black cherry layered with raisin, white pepper, nutmeg and cocoa backed up by bracing but refined tannins.
Tri-Centenary refers to the fact that these vines have lived in parts of three centuries, being planted prior to 1901. The 2006 isn't the most profoundly complex of recent vintages, but instead offers remarkably pure essences of cherries and berries, allied to a wonderfully silky texture that makes it awfully easy to drink.
Tri is actually a blend of four grapes – Syrah, Dolcetto, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre. Maybe should be renamed Quad? It's soft and fruity, and the unusual mix of grapes resolves into an easy-drinking, all-purpose, but somewhat diffuse, generic red.
Tribolo is a Sangiovese-based wine from coastal Tuscany that opens with smooth richness and bright tones of wild blueberry and cherry. There's a milky, mocha element as well that adds to its overall sensation of creaminess.
Tribute is 41% Syrah, 30% Merlot and 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, all estate-grown. The bouquet opens immediately into a fascinating complexity. What wafts up from the glass is a heady mix of incense, smoke, jam, toast, iron and herb—you can spend a pleasant 10 or 15 minutes just counting all the threads. Spicy, loaded with raspberry and strawberry fruit, gentle acids and silky tannins, this glides comfortably into a tangy finish.
Tribute is a blend of 43% Barbera, 43% Sangiovese and 14% Nebbiolo—a difficult enterprise at best, particularly with fruit from young vines. It's thin and generic, showing no distinct varietal character.
Tries for Burgundian richness, but ends up rather common, although it will satisfy fans of buttery, oaky Chardonnays. Shows ripe flavors of pineapple jam, apricot purée and buttered popcorn.
Trim and tannic, this distinctive effort mixes bright black cherry and cassis fruit with peppery herbs, notably rosemary. The balance is right on track, and the wine holds together through a medium-long finish.
Trincadeira, also know as Tinta Amarela in the Douro, has produced this dense, rich, smooth wine. There are tannins but they are buried in the opulent spice, black plums and dark chocolate flavors. Wood aging shows, but only lightly. This is ready to drink, although it will be better from 2016.
Trincadeira, Moreto and Castelão form the blend for this stalky, fruity wine. It shows no signs of wood aging, boasting only fresh red fruits and balanced acidity. The aftertaste is fresh, continuing the fruity theme.
Trine, named for the three main partners at Pepper Bridge winery, is predominantly equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a final 12% of the blend divvied up among the other three Bordeaux red grapes. It shows good balance and complexity, phenolic ripeness, texture and herbal detail. But despite so many good traits, it has less concentration than most wines in its price category.
Trinity's first-ever reserve is a beauty; half the barrels were new French oak, half neutral. Well-defined with juicy, citrus-flavored acidity, the cherry/berry fruit runs deep and true, while the oak aging adds buttered toast and nut oil. It offers exceptional value for the price.
Trisaetum produces both a dry and an off-dry cuvée from each of its three estate vineyards, as well as two versions of an Estates Reserve. Richer and bigger overall than the individual cuvées, this dry bottling is smooth and round, with a palate-pleasing blend of citrus flesh and peel, notably orange. There's tangerine and spice as well, and the wine continues bright and long through a most engaging finish.
Trisagio is a Malbec-led blend with Cab Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. It's a dense wine offering the full allotment of berry, earth and meaty aromas. Plump and layered across the palate, this tastes of chocolaty oak, baking spices, herbs, cassis and a pinch of salt. A long, pure finish is a nice topping; drink through 2021.
Trollinger, also known as Schiava or Vernatsch outside of Germany, is a rarity in the U.S. market, but this delightfully crisp, raspberrry-scented bottling is worth seeking out. It releases sweet raspberry and cherry perfume, but also darker notes of smoke, granite and cedar. Cranberry and strawberry flavors are tingling and tart, framed by tight tannins and a deep granite finish. Drinks well now but should improve further from 2021.
Troon's reserve is not all that different from the regular bottling. The color is a bit darker, and the tannins have been boosted. The fruit is compact and tightly wound.
Troon is going all in on Tannat, and this latest release—all estate-grown—marks a dive into natural winemaking. That means hand-picked, foot-stomped, native yeast and no additions during fermentation. Smooth, almost burnished to a fine gloss, this has dense fruit flavors of blueberry, boysenberry and blackberry. A dark streak of espresso, graphite and charcoal adds extra weight and length.
Tropical-fruit aromas and lavish flavors go well with the richness and full body of this creamy-textured wine blended from Chardonnay, Sémillon and Verdelho grapes. Toasted almond, nutmeg and vanilla all come out on the palate and linger on the finish.
Tropical-fruit aromas are balanced by crisper apple and pear scents, while the palate is plump, round and easygoing. Flavors of pear, melon, green banana and wood spice end creamy but with adequate acidic cut.
Tropical-fruit aromas are slightly oily but on target for Verdejo. This wine displays a full, round palate held together by acidity and white-fruit tannins. Lightly salty grapefruit flavors finish moderately long, with citrus overtones. Drink as soon as possible.
Tropical-fruit aromas highlight the Moscatel in this blend. The palate is plump and melony in feel, with melon, peach and lychee flavors. The finish is soft and doesn't show a lot of acidity or cut.
Tropical-fruit aromas of lychee and passion fruit come with a hint of lanolin. This wine feels citrusy, with fresh passion fruit and tangerine flavors that are not oily or gritty on the finish.
Tropical and a bit briney on the nose. The palate is healthy in feel, with sweet white fruit flavors, a pinch of lemon and creamy oak. Finishes quick, with a nice feel and adequate acidity; will do best if well chilled.
Tropical and citrus fruit aromas come with controlled skin-based bitterness. This has a full oily texture and flavors of lemon-lime and white pineapple. Fresh acidity on the finish keeps this clean and in good shape. Drink right away.
Tropical and citrus fruits complement each other in this soft and fruity wine. It has some richness and a tangy texture of orange peel, which give it a balanced character. Drink now, although the wine will be better in 2016.
Tropical and citrus notes blend with green herb and subtle struck match notes in this wine. On the palate there's some textural weight and the matchstick character carries through. The searing acidity is overpowering and the wine falls apart a little on the finish, leaving a bitter after taste.
Tropical and creamy, the aromas thick in grapefruit and pineapple, this light, citrus-tinged, refreshing 100% Sauvignon Blanc is well-balanced and easy to enjoy, approachable with some depth.
Tropical and fleshy with upfront acidity, this wine has a full-bodied richness on the nose and overtone, despite a more light-bodied midpalate and finish. Along the way, lemony brightness mingles with a taste of yellow apple.
Tropical and forward, and with three months spent in oak, the wine offers some resin and vanilla both on the nose and in flavor. Tastes sweet, honeyed and nutty, with banana and melon notes. An easy drinker that will do best if well chilled.
Tropical and mild smelling, with vague aromas of melon and lychee. The palate is very sweet and sticky, as if some residual sugar had been left in the wine. Cloying late, and while it hints at higher quality, it comes across candied.
Tropical and pure on the nose, this has aromas of lychee, lime, talcum powder and candle wax. It feels juicy and healthy, with flavors of apple, lime and lychee. The finish is steady and pure.
Tropical and slightly reduced, this complex wine from the famous Westside Road site is peachy and dripping in caramel. Baked apple adds to the lush, plush and richly robust palate, which finishes with balanced acidity and a taste of salty pretzel.
Tropical and stone-fruit aromas mix with notes of vanilla, cinnamon and other barrel spices. The palate is full bodied, with a rounded feel and a finish that carries. It shows some pleasing nuances.
Tropical and toasty, with buttercup and banana on the nose. Good acidity keeps the palate zesty and moving forward, while the flavors of lemon, lime and pineapple are juicy and clean. Good in a fresh and simple way, with just a spot of oak character.
Tropical and vegetal aromas turn more green as this sits. A plump, slightly tired mouthfeel indicates that this is losing steam. Vegetal, briny, pickled flavors are vacuous when it comes to fruit.
Tropical and zesty on the nose, with a big shot of lemon blossom and a secondary note of melon. The palate is juicy, fresh and sort of lean, with lemon, pineapple and green apple flavors. Arguably tart and angular, but at least it's clean and crisp.
Tropical aromas abound on the nose, giving way to passion fruit and peach. These notes the star players on the palate, along with papaya, banana and lime in support.
Tropical aromas are a tiny bit grassy and oily. In the mouth, this is acidic and tangy, while lime and green-herb flavors are snappy. Crisp citric acidity creates sizzle on a racy finish.
Tropical aromas are friendly but basic. A melony feeling palate is low on acidity, thus flavors of honeydew and mango seem mushy. A soft, mealy finish with a papaya-like flavor is the last act. Year after year this unoaked Chardonnay barely gets by.
Tropical aromas are typical for basic Chilean Chardonnay. This is plump in feel, with cantaloupe, honeydew and chunky apple flavors. The palate feels balanced and the wine is just focused enough on the finish, which shows a spot of bracing acidity. Drink right away.
Tropical aromas arise from the bouquet of this unoaked new Chardonnay, and there's some pineapple and lemon-lime thrown in. Flavors of apple sauce, cinnamon and lime juice are sweet and tasty, while the mouthfeel is simple and fleshy. Drink now for the wine's youthful jump.
Tropical aromas come with familiar notes of apple and pear. This feels chunky and melony, with soft, pithy melon and apple flavors. It remains soft and friendly on the finish, and with more fruit than cut, it should be drunk right away.
Tropical aromas include banana. There's good texture here framing toasted apple, melon and banana flavors. Tastes lightly buttered on the finish, with notes of apple and lemon. Normal and good.
Tropical aromas mixed with pear are just right, and overall this Treixadura-Godello-Torrontes blend is ripe and delicious. It's round but zesty, with pear, kiwi and honeydew flavors. It stays on message from front to back, and despite its size and ripeness it keeps everything in balance. Drink now.
Tropical aromas of bath soap and scented baby powder are hard to take serious. The mouthfeel is candied but also tangy and chalky, while lychee, mango and pear flavors run sweet then finish green.
Tropical aromas of lime and lychee are simple but also normal for Moscato. This semisweet still wine is a bit dilute, with flavors of sweet grass, green herbs and lychee.
Tropical aromas of lychee and banana come with a varietally familiar note of bath soap. This is oily feeling, but with integrated acidity it isn't ponderous. Pithy citrus flavors are backed by a hint of bitterness, while the finish is juicy, a touch burning and tastes of nectarine and mango.
Tropical aromas of lychee and green banana are clean and inviting. The palate feels lifted, fresh and easygoing, with lychee, banana and pear flavors. It finishes pure and fairly long.
Tropical aromas of lychee and honeydew set up a straightforward palate. Powdery flavors of green melon and lychee are light and flowery on a modest finish.
Tropical aromas of lychee and pineapple come with blocky, pithy citrus notes. The palate follows that lead with body weight and power; flavors of green fruits fold in a touch of nettle and funk, while the finish is medium in length but doesn't bring anything new to the table.
Tropical aromas of lychee are about all that stand out on the nose of this unusual Moscatel-Garnacha Blanca blend. Neither dry nor sweet, this seems caught in no man's land. A dilute mouthfeel and bitter pyrazine notes on the finish don't help this along.
Tropical aromas of lychee, green melon and peach come with hints of sweat and pine that can be attributed to the 20% Sauvignon Blanc in the blend. This is racy, lean and citric in feel, with tangerine, lime and passion fruit flavors. A lean, pithy, citrusy finish is crisp and clean.
Tropical aromas of mango, banana and honeysuckle lead the nose on what first seems like a fruity wine. But then the palate is much more restrained, clean and mineral-driven, with steely flavors surrounding the remnant ripe plantain-like tropicality.
Tropical aromas of mango, guava and lime peel show on the nose of this bottling by Raymond Smith, who makes his wine in the Carmel Valley. The flavors are easy and nicely restrained on the palate, with apples and pears galore. The tannins are fine-grained but quite noticeable, especially for a white wine.
Tropical aromas of melon and mango make for a good start. This varietal white rings with bright acidity but tastes a touch pithy and bitter, like barely ripe nectarine with the pit. An orange-like citrus flavor takes over on the finish.
Tropical aromas of melon and papaya are clean and youthful, but rudimentary. This is pulpy in feel, with moderate acidity. Simple apple and peach flavors finish mild, with mild complexity.
Tropical aromas of melon, pineapple juice and canned pears are friendly. A fresh palate with minimal depth and weight offers simple apple and white-grape flavors prior to a lean, melony tasting finish.
Tropical aromas of pineapple and melon are simple but clean, while the palate is fresh yet a little plump, with pineapple, mango, apple and banana flavors. This one will wet the whistle but it turns monotone on the finish. Drink as soon as possible for maximum vitality.
Tropical aromas revolve around lemon-lime. This is acidic without much body. Flavors of lemon, melon, mango and green apple are lean and finish with tangy, pithy citrus flavors.
Tropical aromas rise up and win you over. Bold and citrusy in the mouth, with crisp lime, green apple, grapefruit and passion fruit flavors. Zesty and remaining fruity until the end. A ripe, fresh, familiar wine done right.
Tropical aromas suggest bath soap. A tight, lemony palate has an oily feel, while flavors of melon, lychee and lime are exotic, finishing with an oily essence of white flowers.
Tropical fruit and a touch of lemon lead on this gentle white. Elegant and approachable, its combination of crisp lemon and citrus with rounded tropical fruit flavors gives it a balanced, complex edge. Soft spice and a lemon zing finish it off.
Tropical fruit and banana on the nose and palate are both exotic and unusual in this affordable Sauvignon Blanc, and a lively acidity adds to the appeal. A refreshing and fun everyday wine, pair this with ethnic food or salads.
Tropical fruit and citrus aromas aren't bad, but the palate is heavy. The flavor profile only offers soap and grassy white-fruit flavors, while a light, flowery finish falls flat.
Tropical fruit and citrus aromas turn toward air freshener and bath soap upon airing. This feels standard for Torrontés, maybe even a bit flabby, with lychee and melon flavors that finish chalky.
Tropical fruit and citrus lead the nose on this lively white. The palate offers passion fruit, nectarine zest and white peach alongside crisp acidity that gives a clean finish.
Tropical fruit and floral notes abound on this intensely perfumed white. Aged six months in neutral oak, it maintains all it's fruity, forward charms along with a backbone of acidity that's pert and mouthwatering. It's blossomy bouquet might be a bit overwhelming for some.
Tropical fruit and hay aromas open this plump but basic SB that's low on acidity. Low-energy green-melon flavors are a bit briny, while a lack of punchy acidity leaves a short finish.
Tropical fruit and honey aromas set up a shy palate that's lightly spritzy. An odd mix of flowery honeyed flavors turns in the direction of pink grapefruit on a lean spritzy finish.
Tropical fruit and melon aromas are basic but friendly. This has a punch-like mouthfeel as well as open-knit flavors of orange, nectarine, white grapefruit and apple. What it lacks in finesse is made up for in fruit.
Tropical fruit and melon aromas are filled out with a touch of toast and acidity. The result is a wine that is not quite balanced, with wood and fruit still at odds. The aftertaste, with a creamy texture, is more attractive. This is one of the first vintages since Labouré-Roi, which was hit by scandal in 2012, passed into new ownership.
Tropical fruit and new wood flavors thread this opulent, seductive Chardonnay. It has surface glamor, with its flavors of ripe mango, peach and toast. Under the surface, the flavors are simple, softly textured.
Tropical fruit and peach aromas take center stage on this bright wine. The round, friendly palate doles out white peach, green apple and passion fruit alongside lively acidity.
Tropical fruit and powdered sugar aromas are imprecise This blend is round and chunky in the mouth, with underripe nectarine and orange flavors. A pithy, briny finish shows a touch of peach flavor.
Tropical fruit and vanilla-cookie aromas come with a note of nectarine. This feels juicy, racy and citric, with flavors of tangerine and nectarine. Despite having tangy acidity, the wine turns heavy on the finish.
Tropical fruit and white-flower aromas are foxy and strained. This is scattered and flabby on the palate, with pithy, lightly bitter citrus flavors blending with sweet mango in front of a tropical finish with papaya, mango and sugary melon notes.
Tropical fruit aromas and flavors of mango, vanilla and melon give this white blend an exotic spin. Mild acidity gives the wine lift, but the style is easy-drinking and offers a long finish. Pair with poultry or grilled seafood.
Tropical fruit aromas and melon and apricot fruit on the palate give this wine a ripe character. It is spicy, full of ripe fruit with a background of acidity. With a tight edge showing the youth of the wine, it will be better to drink from 2018.
Tropical fruit aromas are hanging in, while this blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Torrontés feels drawn in. Slightly salty melon and apple flavors are showing a hint of oxidation. This finishes a bit dried out.
Tropical fruit aromas are suggestive of bath soap and body oil. This feels obtuse, with depth and an oily sensation to the palate. Chunky, ripe, oily flavors of melon and orange finish loud and ripe, with a deeper set of tropical fruit flavors than your average Argentine Torrontés.
Tropical fruit aromas are the lead-in, but upon airing the wine's pineapple and mango scents turn austere and prickly. The mouthfeel here is astringent and acidic, and the flavors are briny, even pickled.
Tropical fruit aromas come with notes of bath soap and white-flower blossom. This is easygoing and healthy on the palate, with just enough snappy acidity. Flavors of lime and green banana run long on the finish, which shows a touch of the variety's patented oily bitterness. Drink immediately.
Tropical fruit aromas come with nutty, oily grittiness. The palate is full and oaky, while core tropical flavors are barrel driven, honeyed and warm. This comes across as a warm-vintage wine, one with extra sweetness and an oily character.
Tropical fruit aromas feature some gooseberry and grassy notes. Melon, nectarine and passion fruit flavors also bring white pepper and a hint of bell pepper. Tangerine fruit highlights the drying finish, which is a bit chewy and full given the flavor profile and normal perceptions of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
Tropical fruit aromas lead to a peach- and apricot-flavored palate. It shows old-vine concentration, spice from having aged in wood and a generous, velvet-like texture that is balanced by a fine shot of lemony acidity. Age this for 4–5 years.
Tropical fruit aromas meld with a whiff of Mediterranean herb. The bright, simple palate shows hints of banana and citrus, alongside zesty acidity.
Tropical fruit aromas of mango and guava prepare the palate for flavors of lemon-lime sorbet with notes of freesia. There is a nice vein of minerality that offers a faint sensation of chalkiness on the gums. Softly lingering tannins recede into a crisp finish.
Tropical fruit aromas show up on the ripe fruity palate of this wine. With pineapple and mango, it is in the tropical spectrum of Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity is just right to keep the crisp texture in place. Drink now.
Tropical fruit aromas suggest mango and melon, but this wine is fading and shows a mealy side upon airing. The palate remains citrusy in feel, with grapefruit, nectarine and citrus peel flavors coming in front of a pithy finish.
Tropical fruit aromas, lime and minerality create an appealing bouquet. This feels tangy but a touch hollow, with modest body weight and flavors of green apple, orange and lemon-lime. A chiseled, racy finish makes this the perfect pairing for Asian foods and sushi.
Tropical fruit drips from this barrel-fermented Chardonnay, accented in golden honey and toasted oak. Crisp at first, then oaky, it feels a bit disjointed but manages to resolve its issues on the finish, a nice combination of the two.
Tropical fruit flavors abound throughout in this balanced, straightforward wine. Simple yet attractive, it can be used as an apertif or for casual dining. Spicy shellfish dishes, especially coconut shrimp, would pair well with this.
Tropical fruit flavors are brightened by lemon-lime citrus notes and a hint of the variety's trademark grassiness. A slippery smooth texture and balanced acidity make this easy to drink on its own.
Tropical fruit flavors form the base of this wine, but over the ripe mango flavor rides a heavy layer of toasty oak, and it's questionable whether it will integrate before the fruit starts to fade. Drink now for its lusty obviousness.
Tropical fruit notes of pineapple and guava backed by accents of sweet grass and clementine citrus flesh out this white. Lively and slightly prickly on the palate.
Tropical fruit, air freshener and bath soap aromas lead to a candied, sticky palate with a mix of sweet flavors that include papaya, powdered sugar and mango. The finish is confected and soft.
Tropical fruit, apple and citrus aromas are chunky. A plump, mellow palate with modest acidity is home to peach, mango and papaya flavors. A soft finish is easygoing but suggests that this should be drunk as soon as possible.
Tropical fruit, aromatic herb and tomato vine scents jump out of the glass. The palate is focused, albeit a bit lean, offering green melon and white grapefruit flavors, with crisp acidity.
Tropical fruit, banana and citrus aromas are flat and not fully convincing. This is narrow in feel, with bland stone-fruit flavors. The finish follows the palate, meaning it's good enough but unremarkable.
Tropical fruit, citrus and Mediterranean scrub aromas take center stage in this lively white. It's bright and savory, doling out juicy grapefruit, white peach and pineapple flavors, with crisp acidity and a mouthwatering saline note.
Tropical fruit, citrus and white almond scents lead the nose. On the tangy palate, oak hints underscore grapefruit, juicy yellow peach and dried herb flavors, with a candied note of lemon drop.
Tropical fruit, passion fruit and lime aromas are a bit sweaty and suggestive of pine resin. This is low on spine and verve, meaning it's a touch flat and flabby. Briny nectarine and tarragon flavors finish with green notes of scallion and lime.
Tropical fruit, peach, pear, green apple and lime flavors mark this fruity Chardonnay. It has prominent vanilla and buttered toast flavors, with a nice hit of acidity for balance.
Tropical fruit, pineapple and white stone fruit lead the nose alongside a vegetal note. The palate offers white peach and green apple, with racy acidity and brisk bubbles that leave a sharp finish.
Tropical fruit, vanilla cookie and lemony citrus aromas set up a fresh, lithe palate with minerally lime and lychee flavors. This is as pure as they come, with a crisp-as-a-whistle finish. Drink prior to fall 2014.
Tropical fruit, white flower-flavored candies, aromatic heirloom apples and a touch of honey come into crystalline focus on this wine by Joey Tensley and Alex Guarachi. Lime blossoms, Key lime crème fraîche and a touch of yogurt consume the energetic palate.
Tropical fruit, white peach and almond aromas come together on the nose and follow through to the green-apple driven palate. It's vibrant, with racy acidity and a rather brisk perlage.
Tropical fruits and a mix of grass and green herbs make for a nice bouquet. The palate on this Casablanca wine is juicy and round, not pointy, with citrus and nectarine flavors. Finishes with green apple tang; definitely gets the job done.
Tropical fruits and richly herbaceous flavors come together in this ripe, fruity wine. It has a citrus core along with a fine tang of orange zest and pineapple. Ready to drink.
Tropical fruits are cut with citrus acidity in this warm, ripe wine that has rich fruitiness as well as a crisper texture. The wine is bright while also full and rounded in the mouth. Drink now.
Tropical fruits dominate this intensely fruity, perfumed wine with loads of tangy pineapple, mango and kiwi-fruit. Bright acidity, an orange zest texture and a light touch of toast add a sense of structure.
Tropical fruits dominate this rich wine. Mango and pineapple flavors are freshened with a twist of lemon. There are only hints of a more steely character in this full and round wine that's ready to drink now.
Tropical fruits, flowers and citrus lead this appetizing Chardonnay from Peconic. On the palate, the wine has some depth, with lemon/grapefruit citrus, pear and apple. A good everyday white.
Tropical guava and mango surround a restrained cradling of French oak, only 15% of it new, in this easy-to-like, approachable wine. Wrappings of vanilla and honeysuckle complete the picture, with a straightforward, relatively lengthy finish.
Tropical guava, flint and lemon chiffon combine for a mild-mannered expression of the variety untethered by oak, the wine said to have no barrel treatment whatsoever. An easygoing quaff, it goes down without nuance or fussiness, finishing clean and lean.
Tropical hints of passion fruit join freshly cut pear in the aroma stakes. The palate is zesty, fresh and ever so slightly spritzy, making for easy, very enjoyable drinking.
Tropical hints of pineapple rise from the glass but the dry palate of this wine focuses on tangerine and ripe lemon. It offers poise and slenderness in a clean-cut, dry style that promises refreshment and leaves a citrus-scented aftertaste.
Tropical in character, this wine has soft acidity and an attractive texture. With ripe mango flavor, it's full in the mouth and ready to drink.
Tropical in its pineapple and coconut scents, this white is creamy and lush. Neither overripe nor over-oaked, its finish is marked by wild vanilla.
Tropical in personality, this wine is also singing in acidity, offering refreshing stone-like minerality to complement the fruit. Layered and just the slightest bit grassy, it's a wonderfully refreshing quaff, and a fantastic choice with seafood.
Tropical in personality, with a leanness of pineapple and guava, this wine holds a concentration of oak-influenced flavor and texture at its heart. It ends generously sultry in sweet Tahitian vanilla.
Tropical in scent, almost to the point of air freshener, this also has an oily, bitter hint to the bouquet. It feels choppy and citric, with a nuttiness to the core of tangerine, lemon and melon flavors. Good but fading.
Tropical in scent, this has precise notes of apricot and papaya, plus a dusting of turmeric for complexity. Medium to full in body, this offering feels soft on entrance, though the acidity becomes more energized as the wine progresses across the palate.
Tropical in scent, this is an easygoing, medium-bodied wine that is laced with bright acids. Baked cod doused with lime would make a solid pairing.
Tropical in style and approach, this rich wine dotted in pineapple and papaya drinks bigger than it is, veering into very ripe flavor and texture.
Tropical in style, which for Los Vascos is as expected. Year after year, this Casablanca Chardonnay tastes, smells and seems more like Sauvignon Blanc than Chardonnay. As per usual, it's spunky, citric, green and grapefruity. A breed unto itself, with a zesty, green character.
Tropical is how to best describe the bouquet; it's melony and sweet, but not that zesty or pungent. The palate is round and works well, while flavors of orange pith, lime and sweet grapefruit are just lively enough. Drink now or wait for the 2010.
Tropical mango and guava flavors are cut by racy lime and lemon acidity on this intensely ripe, yet dry, full-bodied Riesling. The palate is lush and weighty, with a smoky, mineral character that lends elegance and complexity.
Tropical mango and melon mingle elegantly into swathes of blossom and peach in this lush, juicy Gewürztraminer. It's lusciously textured, a bit brawny even, boasting creamy swirls of fruit that linger long and heavy through the finish. Drink now through 2016.
Tropical mango and pineapple flavors give this attractive wine an exotic character. It does have some herbaceous character but it is more about ripe fruits and a light texture. Drink now.
Tropical mango, guava and melon flavors abound on this fruity, forward off-dry Riesling. It's plush and crowd-pleasing, nuanced with a nutty tone on the finish. Drink now through 2019.
Tropical mango, melon, citrus and peach-pit aromas are typical for Verdejo. Flavors of citrus peel and stone-fruit pits follow the nose, while this organic-grape offering is mildly green on a light fresh finish.
Tropical melon and mango notes are wild and effusive on the nose, striking a contrast to a palate that's surprisingly smoky and mineral. Vivacious and zesty on the palate, it's a uniquely composed, enjoyable wine.
Tropical more than green and pungent, this fragrant wine offers powdery, sweet notes and stronger coastal ones. It's lean and angular in feel, with oceanic flavors of nettle, tangerine and lemon. A light green flavor and a chalky feel make up the finish.
Tropical notes on the nose are as good as it gets; otherwise it smells like air freshener. In the mouth, it's waxy and flat, with bland apple and vanilla flavors. Finishes pithy.
Tropical notes rule the nose, with guava most prominent, yet white flowers present as well. There is lemon rind-driven acidity on the apple juice-laden palate, making for a pleasant wine for drinking with light fare.
Tropical on the nose with lots of melon, guava and pineapple, this is reminiscent of fruit cocktail on both the nose and palate. Despite it's juicy profile, however, it lacks in intensity, but a clean minerality and bright, citrusy acidity keep it refreshing.
Tropical on the nose, with floral, lychee aromas that seem more like Torrontés than typical Sauvignon Blanc. In the mouth, the feel is basic, with sweet flavors of lychee, mango and melon. Vacuous on the finish, but overall it's not going to turn anyone off.
Tropical on the nose, with lychee fruit and tangerine aromas. The palate is easygoing and fairly thorough, while the flavor profile suggest Argentine Torrontés as it deals lychee, powdered sugar and papaya. Clean, light, quaffable and that's about it.
Tropical papaya meets moderate acidity in this lush, creamy and voluptuous version of the variety, complemented by enough minerality to cut through the fleshy ripeness. The oak impact is subtle and plays a supporting role, never distracting from the fruit.
Tropical peach fuzz, grassiness and acidity give this wine a lively edge, supported by ample freshness on the palate, as well as length and body. A touch sour on the finish, it begs for just-caught seafood.
Tropical pineapple and guava flavors are restrained and balanced in this bright, soft and seductively smooth vineyard designate. Its high-toned acidity delivers stone and lemon peel characteristics, finding more citrus-tinged focus on the finish.
Tropical pineapple and more relaxed apricot find comfort in a creamy texture in this rare version of the variety, blended with 3% Sauvignon Blanc. Full-bodied and fleshy, it stays fresh in the glass, thanks to highlights of lemon zest and grapefruit.
Tropical pineapple, mango and melon tones burst from nose to palate in this luscious bang-for-your-buck Auslese. It's densely packed with fruit yet deft and darting in mouthfeel. While it may lack the complexity and nuance of greater sweet wines, it's an irresistibly fresh and fruity sip.
Tropical ripeness shows strong on the nose of this wine, which is made from the Musque clone out of the Carter Estate Vineyard. It shows aromas of Juicy Fruit gum, papaya-orange-guava juice and daffodils. The palate offers a honeyed red-apple flavor.
Tropical ripeness teases on the entry of this wine, before its lush, fleshy texture takes over. Its golden apple, pear and mango flavors combine effortlessly, while an underlying minerality plays upon the palate.
Tropical scents of guava and cherimoya with the mineral edge of concrete lead the aromatics on this Carmel Valley wine. Sharp acidity at first sip massages into softness soon afterward, upholding the nose's rocky promise as well as delivering lime-zest tang throughout.
Tropical scents of kiwi and Catawba are strung together with a touch of caramel syrup and a hint of sulfur. The palate has a pudgy feel upon entrance, with mild flavor concentration. As the wine sits in the glass, the acidity flattens out and a cheesy flavor surfaces.
Tropical smelling, with green banana, minerality and firmness to the bouquet. The palate is clean and cleansing, which are two very different things, while the wine tastes of tangy citrus and green melon. Fresh, tropical and uncomplicated. Drink this year.
Tropical stone fruit and wild honey rise from the nose of this exquisite white wine, from a spot smack in the middle of the appellation. High-toned citrus lifts the acidity to refreshing, supporting levels, a mix of Meyer lemon and limestone-like stoniness. A lean, lithe underbelly underlies a heart of apple pie and baked pineapple.
Tropical tones of mango and grilled pineapple are matched with notes of citrus oil and Honeycomb cereal on the nose and mouth of this decadent wine. Ample acidity helps to keep the palate fresh and the mouthfeel lifted, while rich flavors of peach pit and toasted brioche linger long on the close. Drink now–2019.
Tropical vanilla and pineapple notes provide this full-bodied wine with voluptuous fruit and texture. That ripeness finds its equilibrium on the midpalate, settling down into lemon peel and quince highlights that finish bright.
Tropical with notes of gingerbread and vanilla, this wine tastes full bodied despite its medium level of alcohol. It offers a reduced note on the finish, anchored otherwise in sweet toffee.
Tropical, citrusy aromas are about as good as this gets. The palate is cloying and the flavors of banana and burnt sugar finish sticky.
Tropical, floral aromas are modest but enchanting. Plump and balanced on the palate, this blend tastes a bit yeasty and creamy, with green banana and herbal infusions. A floral finish shows a touch of bitterness.
Tropical, soapy aromas are yeasty and flat. Flavors of lychee and melon have no follow-through and finish mealy.
Tropical, thick and decidedly rich, this wine is both balanced and luxuriously fleshy, with highlights of peach, pineapple, Gravenstein apple and vanilla-kissed caramel. Full bodied, it'll still sing at the table.
Tropical—the flavors are reminiscent of mango and guava—but lacking in intensity. It's cleanly made, showing just a hint of warmth on the finish.
Tropicality rules the roost on this wine, which offers peach, papaya, apricot, mango, coconut and even banana aromas on the nose. Ripe apples, cherimoya and poached peach show on the palate. It's all a little bit much, but not overdone, with enough restraint to achieve balance.
Tropically fruity and plump, with some banana and custard aromas and flavors--also some tapioca and vanilla. Finishes with a refreshing citrus edge.
Tropically layered in glazed pineapple and generously vibrant Asian pear, this wine offers heartiness at the beginning that evolves in the glass into a compellingly balanced wine. The oak is there, but well-integrated.
Trottevieille's style, like its old style yet renewed, offers structure and dry tannins, while there is fruit to give a powerful punch. When it all comes together, this will be in a wine for long aging.
Truchard has produced a Roussanne for many years, but the quality seems to vary according to vintage. The 2012 is a very good wine. It's dry, yet honeyed, with orange, peach and white-flower flavors. The texture is creamy, but highlighted with brisk acidity. It would be a great accompaniment to rich, complex dishes, but a simple roasted chicken would be wonderful as well.
True aromas of green fruit and grapefruit send it off in the right direction. For Maule SB, this is pretty lively and refreshing. The palate features zesty green-apple flavors backed by a jumpy, agile finish. Nothing special but good while it's young and fresh.
True as dry oloroso comes, with nutty aromas combined with caramel richness. Feels raring to go, with pumped-up acidity that boosts otherwise normal flavors of dried white fruits, mixed nuts and brine. Tight, long and driving on the finish.
True bargains are hard to come by, so drop your guard for this $8 SB and you may wind up happy. Xplorador from Concha Y Toro is peachy and simple, with light grassiness and green notes. But it does have a plump, neutral palate and likable pineapple and apple flavors. Inoffensive and not flashy, but good for the money.
True ice wines are a rarity in the Northwest. This one brings honeyed aromas of dried pineapple and mango that draw you into the glass. The flavors are sweet and rich but still manage to remain light on their feet. It's a perfect end to any meal.
True to its advocacy for Malbec in the Napa Valley, the producer adds 15% Malbec to this Cabernet Sauvignon, forging a dark, rich and intense wine that's generous in black fruit and tobacco. It nonetheless retains ample acidity to stay balanced and rewarding on the palate. Enjoy through 2020.
True to its full-bodied, burly profile, this blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Petite Sirah packs a powerful punch and needs further time to open. For now, a reduced sense of baked coconut, plum and black pepper struggle for identity, with shocks of dark chocolate and velvet. Drink now through 2020.
True to its legacy, K-J's V.R. Chard is almost off-dry and soft in style, with pleasant mango, peach, orange and vanilla flavors. It's an easy-drinking wine to enjoy with everyday picnic or beach fare.
True to its name, this blend is tangy in acidity. Flavorwise, it's simple, with pleasant orange, peach, lemon and vanilla flavors that finish a little sweet.
True to its name, this is the kind of wine that'll shake you up good, with burnt caramel and vanilla weaved between gobs of black cherry jam, bacon bits, coffee and dark chocolate. Big and chewy, this might be just the wine for the cigar lover in your life.
True to its name, this Moscato delivers musky aromas of soapy flower, honey, acacia flower and stone fruit. It shows sweet, smooth creaminess as well.
True to its name, this wine is a rowdy mashup. It has an earthy, smoky aroma, cherry flavors shaded by leathery funkiness, and a smooth easy-drinking texture.
True to its name, this wine is golden amber in color. Its apricot and almond blossom aromas lead to quince, underripe apple and bitter almond flavors. Grippy tannins come on strong from first sip and persist into the chalky finish.
True to its varietal character, this is earthy, on the rustic, farmyard side, but balanced with concentrated licorice and fresh black berries. There is a serious core of dusty tannins, but the other flavors dominate a wine that can be drunk now.
True to label, this dry, invigorating Riesling is a showcase of Mosel-style minerality. Racy lime, pineapple and tangerine flavors are intensified by slatey, salty tangs of minerality that reverberate on the finish.
True to Passito tradition, this luminous dessert wine delivers intense and pristine aromas of dried figs, dried fruit, raisin, apricot, honey, almond and natural rubber. On the close is a blast of freshness and the wine's rich, raisin like flavors last a long time.
True to past vintages, this is a peppery Syrah from a cooler site, putting the accent on very tart and tight fruit flavors of wild berries and aromatic herbs. It's well balanced and the tannins are reasonably ripe, with good grip.
True to the ambitious Damiani style, this wine has tightly packed fruit tones with a generous overlay of vanilla and mocha from toasty new oak. Intoxicating flavors of caramelized pineapple and boysenberry frame the dense palate while refined tannins provide a counterbalance to the dense fruit. The finish is moderately long and slightly drying, winding up with a chocolate note. Best 2011–2013.
True to the Clos du Val paradigm, this wine offers ripe California fruit rendered traditionally-in this case in a Burgundian manner. The fruit rides high on the bright acidity; full, meaty black cherry and earth aromas and flavors sport attractive licorice accents. Big on the palate but not heavy, the wine finishes dry with dark cherry and mineral notes, fairly full tannins. This very good California Pinot Noir should improve over the next two or three years. A fine candidate for the short to mid-term cellar.
True to the dense, muscular style of Woodward Canyon's Merlots, this elevates the complexity in a near-perfect vintage. Deep and textural, it packs together concentrated red fruits, preserves and cassis. At first it shows a little heat from the 15% alcohol, but as it breathes open over hours (and even days) the primary fruit gives way to subtle veins of olive, earth, coffee and toast.
True to the estate's signature style, this is a powerful, luscious wine. It's ripe with plum and berry fruits,layered with dark, firm tannins. There is a juicy element as well as black-coffee flavors from the enthusiastic use of wood. Give it time to integrate properly and drink from 2022.
True to the Pride style, this Chardonnay is massively constructed, with an enormous blast of pineapple, orange and golden mango fruit, elaborated with sweet, smoky, caramelized oak. It's saved from being a mere fruit bomb by crisp acidity and a bracing minerality. Drink now for sheer hedonistic freshness.
True to the Schug style, this is dry, earthy and less flamboyant than many of today's Cabs. But it's also elegant, and its modesty wants to support food, not overwhelm it. With its finely delineated black currants, anise, dried herbs and oak, it's a lovely wine to drink now, and should gain traction over the next 5–6 years.
True to the Syrah variety, this plush red wine offers bright fruit tones of blackberry and cherry backed by light spice and clove. It's an easy, soft ensemble that would pair with meat, chicken or pasta.
True to the variety, this expression of Cabernet Sauvignon offers rich layers of dark fruit, prune, chocolate, spice and dried rosemary. The palate is tight, structured and fresh.
True to the variety, this expression of Riesling offers touches of nature rubber and kerosene backed by a light and luminous mouthfeel. There's a touch of sweetness as well as a polished mineral aftertaste.
True to the variety, this pure expression of Syrah shows blueberry, cola, smoked bacon and milk chocolate aromas. The bouquet is a bit muddled compared to last vintage, but the wine is soft and smooth on the finish.
True to the vintage, this is a more aromatically brooding wine than often found from this winery, with notes of dark raspberries, vanilla and assorted barrel spices. It's full bodied, layered and rich with cherry and raspberry flavors showing a lot of depth and intensity. Best after 2017.
True to the vintage, this is a rather hard and chewy Cabernet, yet it captures both varietal and vintage character in a style that is ready for that sizzling steak off the grill. Lightly herbal, with black cherry, cassis, coffee and bitter chocolate streaks, it's a firm and well-balanced wine with the potential to age over the next decade or so.
True to the winery's style, this wine pulls no punches, with aromas of black licorice, dark cherries and woodspice. It's rich and full bodied with a grainy feel.
True to this negociant's style, this Chardonnay offers lots of bang for the buck. It delivers true varietal character, offering flavors of pineapples, pears and oak, wrapped into a creamy texture that finishes dry and spicy.
True to Toro, this is a riper styled wine that shows a lot of raisin and licorice on the nose. It's aged in oak, but it's not that woody or resiny, hence the approval despite its lack of acidity. A drink-now wine with some richness, weight and black-fruit flavors.
True to type, this Cab Franc from cool-climate Clarksburg is very herbal and dry, with a back beat of black cherry. Rich on the finish, herb flavors turns to chocolate and clove. A good wintertime wine.
Truffle and dirt arise aromatically from this wine, a structured and juicy offering of red and black berry, tobacco and black tea. Lush and complex, the wine jumps from the glass and is a nice example of the beauty that can be coaxed from a challenging vintage.
Truffle, black plum, game and leather aromas come together in the glass. On the savory palate, notes of mint, dried sage and white pepper accent a core of juicy black cherry while polished tannins provide the framework. It's already accessible and delicious. Drink through 2016.
Truffle, blackberry, dark spice, dark chocolate and new-leather aromas take center stage on this delicious full-bodied red. The smooth, enveloping palate doles out juicy Marasca cherry, ripe plum, vanilla and a confectionery note framed in velvety tannins. It's structured but also remarkably easy drinking and a fantastic value. Drink through 2022.
Truffle, blue flower and eucalyptus aromas take center stage in this straightforward red. The racy palate offers tart sour cherry, orange zest and licorice notes, framed by firm tannins and zesty acidity.
Truffle, chopped mint, woodland berry and eucalyptus aromas unfold in the glass. Bright and juicy, the palate evokes succulent red berries, star anise, clove and tobacco, set against a backdrop of firm, polished tannins. Fresh acidity lends balance. Drink 2019–2027.
Truffle, dried herb, espresso, new leather and balsamic aromas come together on this along with a whiff of wood shop. The firm tightly knit palate shows cranberry, sour cherry, clove and thyme framed in assertive close-grained tannins that leave a rather raspy finish. Drink after 2023.
Truffle, fig, underbrush, toast and chopped mint aromas emerge in the glass along with a whiff of cocoa. The firm palate shows dried black cherry, cinnamon, clove and star anise alongside assertive tannins that need to unwind. Drink 2018–2024.
Truffle, forest floor, baked plum and cake spice aromas mingle with whiffs of new leather and pipe tobacco on this bold full-bodied red. The enveloping palate seamlessly combines concentration and finesse, doling out fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, licorice and mocha alongside big velvety tannins that give the finish nice grip and a polished texture. This will give decades of enjoyment. Drink 2020–2037.
Truffle, forest floor, new leather, purple flower and crushed herb aromas take center stage in this Barbaresco. The firmly structured, elegant palate delivers juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, cinnamon and clove flavors in a matrix of tightly wound, polished tannins and bright acidity. A hint of star anise signals the close.
Truffle, forest floor, wild berry and scorched soil aromas lead the nose of this easygoing, earthy red. The lively palate offers juicy wild cherry and a hint of cake spice alongside pliant tannins. It would pair nicely with hearty Tuscan soups.
Truffle, game and grilled sage aromas take center stage along with a floral note of red rose. The solid palate shows red berry, clove and white pepper while somewhat grainy tannins provide an assertive framework and a mouth-drying finish. Drink 2020–2028.
Truffle, game, leather and black plum aromas open this earthy, full-bodied red. The palate offers ripe blackberry, juicy black cherry, mocha, white pepper and savory herb alongside assertive, drying tannins. It ends on a licorice note.
Truffle, leather, berry, grilled herb, oak and a whiff of game lead the nose. The dense, taut palate doles out Morello cherry, raspberry compote, baking spice and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside close-grained tannins. A bitter sage note closes the firm finish. Drink 2018–2023.
Truffle, leather, forest floor, pipe tobacco and purple flower aromas all come together in this young, balanced Brunello. The palate is taut and chewy, with a nervous tension that offsets its juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry, licorice and clove flavors. Its fresh acidity and polished tannins promise good aging potential. Drink 2020–2032.
Truffle, leather, mature black-skinned fruit and carob aromas emerge from this powerful red. The full-bodied palate delivers succulent wild cherry, black raspberry, licorice, pipe tobacco and grilled herb flavors with big, chewy tannins. Drink 2019–2027.
Truffle, leather, Mediterranean brush, chopped herb and black-skinned fruit aromas meld together with a balsamic note. The juicy, concentrated palate shows dried cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and licorice while fine-grained tannins lend support. Give it time for the tannins to fully integrate. Drink 2020–2030.
Truffle, leather, scorched earth, menthol and steeped plum aromas lead the way on this full-bodied red. The brawny palate offers dried black cherry steeped in spirits, blackberry confiture, licorice, cinnamon and mocha alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. You can barely detect the warmth of alcohol on the finish. Give it a few more years to fully come together. Drink 2018–2026.
Truffle, new leather and plum are some of the aromas you'll find in this taut red. The palate delivers Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise and earthy game flavors, set against bright acidity and tightly wound tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
Truffle, new leather, coconut and spiced plum aromas come together in the glass. The taut, full-bodied palate delivers mature black cherry, licorice, coffee and ground pepper set against a backdrop of fine-grained tannins that give it a firm texture. Drink 2019–2027.
Truffle, new leather, ripe plum, tilled soil and chopped herb are some of the aromas you'll find on this impressive red. Polished and powerfully structured, the palate delivers morello cherry, ripe blackberry, star anise and clove set against a backbone of tightly knit, velvety tannins that lend firm support and a smooth texture. Drink 2021–2031.
Truffle, new leather, wild berry, forest floor and balsamic notes are just some of the aromas you'll find on this fragrant, fantastic red. Fresh and juicy, the palate doles out Marasca cherry, raspberry, cinnamon and pipe tobacco set against a tannic backbone and fresh acidity. It's firmly structured but also boasts balance and elegance. Drink 2023–2043.
Truffle, oak, stewed fruit, exotic spice and leather aromas lead the nose. The mature, approachable palate offers raisin, sweet baking spice and stewed prune while firm tannins grip the finish. It's already at its ideal drinking window so enjoy soon.
Truffle, ripe berry, plum, oak-driven spice, espresso and leather aromas lead the nose. The firm palate delivers dried black cherry, raisin, licorice and tobacco alongside tightly knit tannins. It closes on a note of grilled herb. Drink 2016–2021.
Truffle, underbrush, dark berry, mocha and grilled sage aromas unfold in the glass. The firm palate delivers smoke, raw berry, baking spice, anise and a sprinkling of aromatic herb while bracing tannins provide the backbone.
Truffle, underbrush, mature plum, saddle leather and a balsamic note emerge on this robust red. The hearty, one-dimensional palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice and grilled herb alongside solid if not very persistent tannins. You'll also notice the heat of alcohol on the rather quick, drying finish.
Truffle, underbrush, new leather and chopped herb aromas slowly emerge in the glass. The bright, elegantly structured palate delivers tart cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside vibrant acidity and tightly wound noble tannins. It's still youthfully austere so give it time to develop. Drink 2023–2033.
Truffle, underbrush, scorched earth and grilled herb aromas lead the nose. On the warm, ripe palate, toast and oak-driven spice underscore raspberry jam and dried black cherry while aggressive tannins clench the finish. Give the tannins another year or two to soften then to drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Truffled compost and chocolate mocha combine for a density of flavor and texture in this approachable, decadent wine. Medium in terms of body and length, it's abundant in leather and burly black fruit.
Truffled earth and cranberry-strawberry envelop sizable oak and bittersweet tannin in this warm-vintage wine. On the more light-bodied side, it features savory tinges of black tea.
Truly a Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec from Seven Hills (51%), Pepper Bridge (32%) and Octave vineyards, this wine offers aromas of wood, dark raspberry and licorice. The supple, reserved fruit flavors bring plenty of appeal. Give it time for the oak to fully integrate.
Truly a wine that overdelivers, this packs molten fudge cake, vanilla-laced black-currant syrup and chocolate pudding with a fresh sprig of mint on the nose. The palate is soft and dynamic, with ripe black currants given complexity though licorice and butter-softened roasting herbs, all wrapped in tannins that keep the flavors steady throughout.
Truly classy, with a deep nose of earth, tar and pure berry fruit. This wine delivers both the sweetness and ripeness that it should along with some rugged, spicy edges. The finish is big and packed with licorice, spice and pepper. A fine wine. Hold until 2006.
Truly dry, with barely perceptible 6g/L of residual sugar, this is intensely aromatic. A strong and lingering impression of talcum powder dominates. It's a potent, powerful, penetrating wine, true to variety, but a bit of a challenge with food.
Truly elegant, this displays the complexity of vines now hitting maturity at almost 20 years of age. Spice, clove, herb and cherry flavors mix with a dash of truffle. The lower alcohol and juicy acidity of the vintage contribute to a lingering, textural, complex and beautifully balanced finish.
Truly enjoyable, this has loads of fizzy bubbles and sweet tones of strawberry and raspberry tart. This sweet, sparkling red wine is made with low atmospheric pressure, giving it a soft, creamy feel.
Truly herbaceous and aromatic, this is a crisp, clean, easy-drinking wine, with a fresh, bright line of acidity. Ready to drink now.
Truly stunning, the Lewis Estate Riesling from Dunham explodes with fragrant fruits—citrus, melon and tropical. A symphony of subtle accents, such as powdered sugar, candied citrus peel and breakfast tea, this gorgeous bottle belongs with the short list of the very best of Washington's many Rieslings.
Truly stunning, this white starts out with subtle talcum powder and gravel notes, then adds intense perfume and peaches in the mouth. There's a finely tuned balance and good length. Exceptional harmony and intensity suggest it will improve for 15 years or more.
Truth be told, both the regular and reserve Chardonnays from Blakeslee are very close in quality, cost and flavor. This selection is loaded with thick fruit flavors of peach and apple, along with barrel notes of buttered popcorn and coconut.
Truth be told, the difference in quality between this wine and the $125 Graveyard Vineyard bottling doesn't appear that great, so savvy consumers should jump on this Shiraz, which offers leather, coffee and roasted meat complexity allied to medium body, a creamy texture and a long, firmly structured finish. Drink 2015-2025.
Try as we might to understand very ripe Bonarda blended with low-acid Malbec, it doesn't make sense...and this example doesn't help much. It's a little green and funky, with mineral, asphalt and prune aromas. The palate is soft, semidark and baked, with chocolate and medium tannins on the finish. A strange blend that comes out strange.
Try giving this Pinot Noir 5–6 years in the cellar. It's not that it's undrinkable now, but it's immature, offering just a hint of what it wants to be. The fruit is ripe and jammy, suggesting red cherries and pomegranates, and the acidity is juicy and tart. Pinots from this vineyard are known to age well.
Try sneaking this into your next wine group blind tasting. It might turn some heads. It shows the ripe, polished cherry, plum, sage, carob and licorice flavors of the finest Merlots, with rich, finely ground tannins, and finishes dry. With a drop of Cabs Sauvignon and Franc, it has true complexity.
Try this as an alternative to Merlot or Pinot Noir. Well balanced and medium bodied, it has light and appetizing cherry and strawberry flavors and a smooth mouthfeel.
Try this as an interesting alternative to Chardonnay to pair with grilled salmon or chicken. It's rich and creamy, with ripe orange, apricot, mango and honey flavors, but balanced with crisp acidity. The blend consists of Roussanne, Viognier, Picpoul Blanc and Marsanne.
Try this beautiful wine in order to understand how Amarone evolves and becomes more sophisticated with age. The aromas here are thick and penetrating with tones of dried fruit, cherry preserves, cola and resin. The mouthfeel is deep and concentrated and the finish is impressively long. A true classic.
Try this bold and concentrated wine for a change of pace. Enormous aromas of fully ripe plums and cherries mix with savory, herbal accents. The flavors are rich and mouthfilling, dripping with prune, boysenberry and anise.
Try this rare wine from a vineyard planted in the 1880s. Aromas like maple syrup and vanilla, and flavors like raspberry and cherry jam make this wine seem sweet and feel soft as a pillow, but understand that the alcohol level is almost high enough for a Port.
Try this superrich wine as a twist on Chardonnay. It's full bodied and creamy, with intricate flavors of tropical fruits, limes, oranges, white chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon spice. Straddles the border between dry and off-dry.
Tufaie gets its name from the chalky tufa stone deposits that characterize its vineyard soils. That quality adds a pristine, dry quality to the wine that works very nicely with its sweet melon, sage and stone fruit aromas.
Tulin offers characteristically earthy aromas of porcino mushroom with pressed violets and animal or leather like notes. That said, the aromas are warm and inviting and offer interesting depth and complexity. In the mouth, the wine's precise and sharp nature is emphasized by its bright acidity and drying tannins.
Tulin opens with thick concentration and a dark, brooding appearance. The aromas are intense and extremely inviting and recall blackberry, cherry, eucalyptus leaf, cola, underbrush and licorice. The thickness and density in the mouth creates a big, satisfying sensation and the wine ends with a soft, plush finish. Drink after 2015.
Tulip blossom, fresh green apple and feisty lemon acidity play on the palate of this wine that offers flavorful refreshment. The lasting length suggests hidden depths worth plumbing.
Tulpen's 2009 Cabernet moves the fruit sources to a trio of Walla Walla vineyards, notably Tokar and Heather Hill, to good effect. It's pure varietal, and the excellent fruit sources yield a muscular, aromatic, dense wine. Floral top notes lead into spicy, brambly black fruits. The tannins are firm and astringent, leaving just a bare suggestion of ripe raisins in the finish.
Tumbarumba is an up-and-coming cool-climate viticulture region, and this Chardonnay is a fine example of why the area is considered to have promise. The wine is medium in body and nicely plump in the mouth, and displays a harmonious blend of apple, pear, citrus and butter flavors and an elegant, lingering finish. Drink now and over the next 1–2 years.
Turbo-charged fruit flavors, full body and an almost thick texture make this wine opulent and compelling. While technically dry, it has such ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors that it tastes like a syrup, coating the sides of the mouth with fruit flavor and powering to a lingering finish.
Turkey Flat's Mourvèdre is perennially one of the Barossa's finest. The 2009 is a full-bodied,  creamy-textured example, with flavors of cherries jubilee grounded by savory, meaty notes. A long, mouth-coating finish completes the picture. Drink now–2018.
Turkey Flat's rosé has been an Aussie staple for more than decade. The 2015 is 92% Grenche, with the balance a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Dolcetto and Mataro. Crushed stone and red berry scents lead the way, followed by flavors that are reminiscent of white chocolate and strawberries. It's fairly weighty for a rosé, with a long, slightly viscous finish.
Turned earth is very apparent on the nose of this bottling from the historic vineyard, with crushed shale and loam dust as well as cinnamon spice and a red-cherry backbone. The sip shows deep pomegranate and black-raspberry fruit with gingerbread, hibiscus and a touch of thyme. It's rich in the midpalate, with extreme spice throughout.
Turned earth, coffee grounds, asphalt and dried cherries show on the mushroomy nose of this widely available bottling. Black tea and strong coffee flavors emerge through a thick veil of chunky tannins.
Tuscan dishes celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients such as fava beans, artichokes, asparagus, zucchini and extra virgin olive oil. This structured white wine offers the richness of texture and aromatic intensity to pair with the best of that culinary tradition.
Tuscany's Mazzei family delivers a wonderful Chianti Classico from their Fonterutoli estate that would pair perfectly with grilled meats or oven-roasted pasta. This is a soft, lush wine with bright cherry and spice notes, which drive a long, velvety finish.
Tuscany has been showing magnificent results with Syrah and this expression boasts all the clean lines, spicy flavors and natural intensity of the variety. Aromas of dark fruit, smoked beef, chocolate and tobacco are balanced by a thick, velvety mouthfeel.
Twelve different parcels provided the grapes to make this Puligny-Montrachet. It's rich and round, and it has a minerally structure and a touch of crisp acidity. The vintage has given a sense of shape to this white- and yellow-fruit-flavored wine. The finish bears a lemon-zest tang.
Twelve months bottle aging and a selection of Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro have resulted in a powerfully structured wine. The wood aging is still showing in the wine's toasty character with hints of dry extraction spoiling the black fruit flavors. The wine will integrate better as it develops, so wait until 2017.
Twenty-five percent new oak shows in the aromas of buttered toast, butterscotch and caramel that superimpose over ripe notes of pineapple jam. Purists might object to all that oak, but others will go gaga.
Twenty percent of the fruit in this 2005 comes from Red Mountain grapes—though not yet from the newly planted estate vineyard. Rich, ripe, smooth and supple, this nicely styled blend is packed with good dark fruits and sweet berry jam flavors. It's supple and muscular, with well-modulated tannins, and layered flavors of earth, soy and black tea.
Twin unbalanced notes of vegetables and raisins mar this Cabernet. It's very soft and finishes with notes of prunes and milk chocolate.
Twisted Oak has a pretty serious track record with this wine. The '05, a blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Garnacha (Grenache), is very dry and complex. It's soft but firmly tannic, with juicy flavors of cherries, raspberries, pomengranates, licorice, chocolate, cloves and pepper. Has the body of a fine Pinot Noir, with different flavors.
Twizzler and other red candy aromas lead to a creamy feeling yet acidic palate that tastes like raspberry extract. Sharp acidity prevents what would otherwise be a cloying wine.
Two-plus years in the cellar have softened and mellowed this wine, taking off the edges and giving it a nice roundness. It's quite impressive, filled with classically varietal cherry, cola and sweet persimmon fruit, while that famous Russian River acidity gives it a boost of tartness. Drink this delicious, rich wine now–2016.
Two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one-third Merlot, this wine conveys brooding aromas, with notes of dark cherry, herb, anise, toast and gun smoke. The palate has restrained dark-fruit flavors that possess a silky feel.
Two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance near-equal parts Merlot and Syrah, this wine displays aromas of vanilla bean and baking spices along with cherry and fruit leather. Flavors mingle fruit and barrel, with spice lingering on the finish.
Two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec and Carménère, this brooding wine brings aromas of moist soil, herb, black tea, eucalyptus, fig and spice. It's full in feel, tart and tightly wound with bright acids and chewy tannins—a wine intended for the long haul. Enjoy after 2020.
Two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot, this reserve is aromatically distinctive. A suggestion of grapefruit in the underlying acidity outlines pretty boysenberry, mulberry and sweet spices. It's beautifully balanced.
Two-thirds Chardonnay, 22% Viognier, and the rest Sauvignon Blanc—an unusual blend that works well. Medium gold and showing the color and scents of oak aging, this big-boned white runs the gamut from apple to pear to peach, soaked in Bourbon barrel flavors, with a rich, creamy finish.
Two-thirds Chenin Blanc and one-third Grüner Veltliner, this wine opens with aromas of apple, white pepper, herb and spice. It brings a sense of freshness and purity, along with a rounded feel.
Two-thirds Grenache and one-third Syrah, this wine has intriguing aromas of white pepper, earthy funk, garrigue and berry. It's full bodied with the oak (33% new French) dialed back, putting the focus on the rich red and black fruit flavors.
Two-thirds Grenache with the balance Syrah and Mourvèdre, this shows moderate aromas of coffee and pepper along with high-toned herbs and barrel spices. It's supple in texture, with the mouthfeel bringing much of the appeal.
Two-thirds Merlot with the rest made up of near equal parts of the other four Bordeaux varieties, this wine opens with aromas of toast, spice, plum, licorice, herbs and red and black fruit. The black-fruit flavors are fresh and exquisitely balanced, with a finish that persists.
Two-thirds of the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, initially tannic with an emphasis on the greener flavors sometimes found in those grapes. It's well-balanced, elegant and tart, with highlights of cinnamon and chocolate from aging in one-third new French oak barrels.
Two-thirds of this wine comes from McKinley Springs Vineyard with the rest from Kiona and Les Collines. Coffee, pencil lead, barrel spice and high-toned herb aromas lead to full-bodied coffee and cherry flavors. The tannins show some grit and grip.
Two-thirds of this wine is Malbec and one-third is Merlot. Aromas of asphalt, plum and orange rind lead to a palate that possesses a lovely sense of balance and length.
Two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay, this aged a decade in bottle on the yeast, before being disgorged in August 2015. Amazingly fresh, it bursts with subtle, well-integrated flavors of citrus rind, peach, almond and pastry. The length and imposing structure suggest it can age for another decade. Drink now through 2025.
Two bottles were tasted, with significant variation. The better bottle showed moderately ripe cherry fruit framed in chocolate and orange peel. A 50/50 mix of Pommard and Dijon 777 clones, this is best enjoyed soon.
Two bottles were tasted; the first showing some signs of incomplete fermentation. The wine is lean, grapy and tart—stylistically apart from the other 2012 releases. Though relatively high in alcohol, the flavors don't seem to have the full physiological ripeness you might expect. This may need additional bottle age.
Two bottles were tasted; the first sour and disjointed, the second, considerably better, with tart lemon and green apple fruit and some pretty orange-peel highlights. It's finished with a screwcap so a bad cork is not an issue, but watch out for bottle variation.
Two classic Dão grapes, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz are blended in this powerful wine. It has dark tannins that still give dryness at the heart of the wine. Alongside that are the beautiful black fruits, dense structure and balanced acidity. The wine will be better from 2018 as the tannins soften further.
Two complementary grapes produce this ripe wine that's full of citrus flavors and balanced with pear and peach. It's rounded and rich in its texture, with a touch of honey to go with the lemon acidity on the finish.
Two different Tempranillo clones are aged in 100% American oak. This pure, varietal wine offers warm, light red fruits and flavors of the barrels—hints of pickle barrel spice, along with whiffs of smoke and cured meats.
Two Dijon clones went into this tasty Chardonnay, which is rounded out and easily accessible upon opening. Smooth tree-fruit flavors are set in a lightly buttery frame, with nutmeg spice. As it rolls along the impression of fresh-baked brioche is undeniable. Delicious and ready to enjoy immediately, this should hold up in the cellar through 2021 or so.
Two fistfuls of Merlot help soften this wine, along with 5% Petit Verdot. These grapes contribute to the full-bodied spirit and youthful tannin make-up that becomes plush and lush as it goes, revealing sizable elements of mocha, black currant and vanilla-tinged oak. Drink now through 2020.
Two fistfuls of Petite Sirah are added to the mix here, the wine a mix of black cherry and berry around soft, sinewy layers of black pepper and firm tannins. Never overbearing, this wine will do well at the table around plenty of meats.
Two Hands' 2007 Gnarly Dudes is a nicely balanced wine, managing to be full bodied and supple in tannins while still coming in under 15% alcohol. Brown sugar and cinnamon shadings accent the main plum and earth elements, all wrapped up in a long, spicy finish. Drink now-2017.
Two native Sicilian grapes—Catarratto and Inzolia—are blended here to produce an easy, well-priced drinking wine with fresh aromas of citrus, peach and stone fruit. The wine is light in color and consistency and would make an excellent informal luncheon companion.
Two naturally crisp grapes come together in a sparkling wine of bright and delicious character. Its lively mousse carries its fruity, fresh citrus and apple flavor. Drink now.
Two Oceans offers a friendly, vibrant sip with this Sauvignon Blanc. Tropical fruit, gooseberry, some straw on the nose and simple, fresh citrus and fleshy tropical fruit flavors give the wine complexity. A fun white with some heft.
Two of the crispest and most savory white varieties in California are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio, and this blend of both shows the best qualities of each. It's just slightly off-dry and vibrant in citrus, fig, melon and vanilla flavors, with beautiful acidity.
Two of the most planted white varieties of the Veneto (Pinot Grigio and Garganega) are blended here to offer soft peach and citrus tones followed by a soft and slightly thick mouthfeel.
Two profiles emerge in this deep-colored, ripe-tasting and very dry Barbera. It smells and, at first, tastes almost overripe and pruny, with a soft, broad texture. Then the firm acidity and slightly tough tannins kick in on the finish. Not an ideal balance, but it will be good with especially rich dishes.
Two rounded, ripe varietals give a rich, smooth wine. It has just a touch of perfume from Fernão Pires, made ripe by the creamy Chardonnay. Pear fruit is cut with balanced acidity. Drink now.
Two samples of this Cabernet were tasted and both are reduced and smell like spray paint. A clampy tannic palate offers stewy black-fruit flavors in front of an overoaked finish. This lacks flow and doesn't seem entirely natural.
Two talented winemakers, Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges, jointly produce wines under the Wine & Soul label. This vintage of Pintas, black as ink, is richly spicy, with peppered fig and raisins over a dense core of dusty tannins. It is seriously powerful, but bears its weight well.
Two thirds Boushey Vineyard, and one third Red Willow, this pure Sauvignon Blanc has not yet completely knit itself together. There's a solid core of clean and tangy ripe lemon, citrus and pineapple fruit. The finish is where it lacks some focus, and may benefit from another year or two of bottle age.
Two thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, with the other Bordeaux grapes filling in the rest. Though this 2006 vintage was held back for some time to allow for extra bottle age, this is still a hard, tannic wine that requires decanting. The build-out is well done, tannins firm and moderately ripe, fruit flavors Bordeaux-like. Right now it's a bit monolithic, tasty enough, but without the textural interest that most Abacela wines display.
Two thirds Chardonnay, and one third a Viognier/Roussanne blend, this young wine has a definitely spritzy mouthfeel and a yeasty finish. The fruit flavors are fresh and lively, suggesting lemon and pineapple, with finishing hints of honeycomb.
Two thirds Grenache, the rest a mix of Tempranillo, Syrah and Counoise, this smooth and fruity red has a pleasing, lively mouthfeel. It carries a hint of moist, clean earth, and finishes with a lick of mocha.
Two thirds Syrah and one-third Mourvèdre, this highly aromatic rosé features hints of passion fruit alongside confected, bubblegum flavors balanced by a squirt of lime on the finish. Drink now.
Two thirds Tempranillo, this Spanish-style red blend is filled out with 17% Merlot, 6% Grenache, and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit is dark and compact, but nicely framed with barrel spices that add some welcome sweetness. Tannins are hard and the finish brings in a broad swath of earth, tar and bark.
Two types of wood barrels were used to age this wine: large chestnut and smaller oak. The wood shows although it does not detract from the tightly crisp and aromatic fruitiness of the Bical grape. It is lively at the end with plenty of bright acidity. Drink now.
Two vineyards go into the making of this wine, including Stonestreet Estate. A nose of plum and dried cherry ride along an extracted palate of relative lightness and notes of soy and tomato leaf.
Two vintages ago this wine rated the same, so we can say that improvement and evolution are not evident. This wine is tan in color and heavy, with strange butterscotch aromas that seem foreign and artificial. Forced oak flavors and a resiny mouthfeel are also drawbacks.
Two years of aging in French oak help shape the overall quality of this beautiful wine. It opens with a luminous garnet color and segues to aromas of spice, anise seed, mineral and black fruit. This is a penetrating interpretation of Nebbiolo with firm tannins and a powerful finish.
Two years of aging on the lees renders incredible textural dimension to this decadently silky dry Riesling. Fresh white grapefruit, lime and lemon notes shine on the palate, offsetting expansive mouthfeel, with acidity that's focused and precise. Stunning already, but should evolve dramatically through 2025.
Twomey has turned to various coastal sources for Pinot Noir for years, with mixed results. Finally, with this Bien Nacido bottling, they've found something worth repeating. It shows that vineyard's balanced structure, with fine acidity and tannins framing cherry, red currant and cola flavors laced with minerality.
Typhoon Pabuk drenched the valley during harvest and botrytised these grapes. Making lemonade out of that lemon, the winery hand-sorted the grapes and crafted this ultrarich dessert wine. Dense flavors of butterscotch and sweet lemon candy make a potent combo. One half-size bottle will easily satisfy four sweet tooths.
Typical Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc (it appeared on the 2008 MW exam), with grassy aromas laid over a base of passion fruit and gooseberry. It's medium in body, finishing with hints of mineral, citrus fruit and great freshness. Drink now.
Typical Albariño aromas of white peach, white pepper and citrus fruits are about average. Bright citric acidity makes this racy, while salty tangerine, apricot and nectarine flavors end with pithy grit.
Typical apple and straw aromas are ripe and pure. In the mouth, this is lean, racy and spritzy, with elegance and fine lines. Flavors of pineapple, nectarine and pink grapefruit finish on a wave of citric acidity.
Typical aromas of ripe peach, melon and white flowers are elevated on the nose. A slightly oily palate houses floral tones up front, leading to juicy nectarine on the midpalate. A playful, fuzzy feeling round out the finish.
Typical aromas of spice and lychee mesh with white grape notes. The wine is attractive, ready to drink, and probably best as an apéritif. Screwcap.
Typical Beaune in its round, soft character. If the tannins are not particularly powerful, it still shows a generous nature, with super-ripe fruits supported by some dryness. The finish is jammy, ripe, a salad of red berries.
Typical earthy Zweigelt flavors join great plum juice fruit and acidity. The wine is ripe, packed with fruit and soft tannins, ready to drink. Screwcap. Private Reserve.
Typical for basic Rioja, this is violet in color, with fresh plum and red berry aromas. The palate comes across kind of hard, tight and candied, with sweet berry fruit flavors that turn bitter on the finish.
Typical for Pomerol, this is a tiny property of seven acres. It is situated on the plateau close to Pomerol village center. It presents a bold display of Merlot, full of ripe tannins and jammy red berry fruits. It's dark, rich and maturing well, and will be ready to drink from 2017.
Typical for the region, and nicely done for the price. Apple and almond aromas yield to citrus and passion fruit, while the palate deals peach, melon and citrus flavors. There is nothing special or out of the ordinary here; the wine is clean, tasty and textbook.
Typical for this winery, this smells a bit herbal, with tomato and earthy plum aromas leading the way. Scratchy, grabby tannins support savory, herbal berry flavors. Hard tannins struggle to resolve themselves on a firm, muscular finish.
Typical light and fresh Grüner, with an attractive burst of lemon acidity as well as a creamy texture. Delicious, crisp wine. Screwcap.
Typical Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, pairing ripe, honeyed stone-fruit flavors with slightly grassy, herbal notes. It's softer and lusher than many of its competitors, with less biting acidity and a soft, mouthwatering finish.
Typical mineral notes shine through this impressive wine. It has plenty of acidity, berry fruits and vivid acidity, the whole structure held together by dark tannins.
Typical Moscatel aromas suggest lychee and pineapple. This feels regular in every way, with no spritz or anything of interest in terms of texture. Flat lychee and tropical-fruit flavors finish with modest citrusy kick and a note of grape skins.
Typical of a fine young S&B; Pinot, this is rather hard and closed in tannins now, although decanting will help coax out the cherry and currant fruit. But it really needs a good 4–6 years.
Typical of a young, fine Petite Sirah, this bottle is too tannic and unintegrated to drink now. But it has a gigantic heart of blackberries, currants, chocolate, anise, leather and cedar, and should have no problem developing in the bottle over the next decade. Hold until after 2011.
Typical of Chilean Carmenère, this deals a mixture of herb, spice, olive and gritty berry aromas. The palate feels racy and it scrapes, while the flavor profile is defined by toast, black fruits, green-leaning herbs and licorice. It's full in feel, and it tastes minty and spicy on the finish.
Typical of early-maturing, Merlot-based wines from this vintage, this is rich, swirling with black-berry fruits and generous tannins. The fresh, almost crisp aftertaste is already attractive. Drink from 2019.
Typical of Egon Müller's wines, this is light in body, but titanium-strong in structure, welding rather tart, lemony fruit to stony, minerally notes and embellishing it all with the merest hints of riper, apple-y fruit. It's just off-dry, with great persistence and lipsmacking appeal.
Typical of Pouilly Fumé in its dense texture and flavor, this ripe wine has a smoky character that comes from the flint soil, which also adds its tight, mineral texture. It needs to age, so drink from 2018.
Typical of the Ayala style, this is almost bone dry. It has crisp acidity and a light touch on the fresh strawberry and raspberry flavors. Its success also comes from the mineral texture that gives structure to this food-friendly wine.
Typical of the best 2009 Riojas, this is aromatic with scents of berry fruits, graphite and spice all mixed to the right proportions. A well-structured palate features firm but flexible tannins and fresh flavors of plum, berry, spice and mocha. On the finish, darkness takes over in the form of espresso, peppercorn and bitter chocolate flavors. This can be drunk now but will benefit from another 5–10 years of aging.
Typical of the huge power of Guiraud, this is one of the richest Sauternes in 2005. The wine is rich and intense, the dry edge of botrytis just dominating the sweetness. Flavors of honey, almonds and peaches give the wine extra complexity.
Typical of the variety, this shows upfront aromas of fresh green pepper, eucalyptus, black pepper and blackberry. These notes are amplified on the palate, with cedar and earthiness adding dimension. The tannins are not shy, but are well-integrated and the acidity is zippy and playful, which lends to a long, enticing finish.
Typical of the variety, this wine shows ripe strawberries, florals, white pepper and a hint of stalky, smokey gamyness. The flavors on the palate are simpler—mainly cherry and strawberry fruit—but there's still a delicacy and juiciness that make this easy to knock back.
Typical of the wines from Estremadura, low in alcohol, offering great juicy fruit, very fresh, bursting with red currants and berries. It is balanced, a vivid painting of bright flavors.
Typical of Volnay, this wine has a velvety character that surrounds the firm tannins. The acidity is palpable through the warm red-berry flavors and firm edge. It is certainly a wine for aging, although it is also likely to be drinkable in 2–3 years.
Typical of Volver's wines, this everyday Monastrell opens with oaky, toasty, charred aromas of black cherry and blackberry. This is a little wiry and acidic, but it's also full and dense. Charred, spicy flavors of baked plum and clove finish with gusto and some heat.
Typical orange, lychee and pineapple aromas set it off in the right direction. In the mouth, however, it's angular and lean, with hard, narrow flavors of tart citrus and lychee. Bites on the finish, which is oily in texture.
Typical passion fruit and gooseberry aromas turn tropical and almost rich on the palate. This is weightier than many Sauvignons, lushly ripe and maybe even a touch sweet—serve it well chilled for best effect.
Typical pepper and spice flavors mark this wine as a classic, fresh, ready-to-drink Grüner. It's all about bright acidity and hints of minerality.
Typical Pommard, with its initially severe tannins. The wine then shows its potential for rich fruit, in its round plum flavors, the tannins offering support. It is a concentrated, chunky wine, the final acidity adding freshness.
Typical scents of ripe, green pears, with an edge of lime peel, whips the rounded and ripe body into shape. There's plenty of structure, with a cleansing backbone of acidity and a pleasingly phenolic midpalate.
Typical tobacco and herb-flavored wine, not for aging, but with red plum flavors and light tannins. It has a pronounced element of acidity.
Typical varietal aromas of black-skinned berry, blue flower a spice note waft out of the glass. The straightforward, easygoing palate conveys mature black cherry, raspberry jam and a light note of ground pepper alongside soft, round tannins. Simple but well made, it makes an ideal quaffing wine.
Typical varietal aromas of lychee, citrus and white flowers feed into a juicy palate that's tight and tangy in feel. Lychee, pineapple and mango flavors hold form on the finish before showing a slight bit of pith and bitterness at the end. Drink now.
Typical varietal aromas of wild berry and damp earth lift from the glass while the rather lean vibrant palate offers morello cherry, blackberry and star anise. Racy acidity and firm tightly packed tannins provide the backbone. Drink 2019–2026.
Typical, light and sweet rosé, fruity with bright acidity and forward red fruits. Drink now. Screwcap.
Typically bright and floral-fruity, this offers up a big mouthful of lemonade, peach juice, and honeyed, wildlfower flavors. ItÕs creamy and rich, and really a lot of fun, a wine to enjoy, not ponder over.
Typically Calera's most luscious, delicious wine in youth. The year 2007 was kind, and the result is a Pinot rich in cherries, raspberries, licorice and cola, wrapped into a silky texture, with near perfect acids and tannins. As good as it is now, it should develop over the next 6–8 years.
Typically crisp and fruity, this green-apple-driven wine has bright acidity and a tangy, citrus edge. It is bright, cool and refreshing, ready to drink now.
Typically dark in color, with plum, blackberry and a touch of raisin on the nose, this feels a bit jammy, with a shock of acidity and hard tannins. Prune, baked plum and baking-spice flavors finish toasty and charred, with dry rough tannins. Drink through 2025.
Typically fragrant, with floral aromas vying with mildly green notes of lime and lychee. Feels tangy and downright citric, with lemon, orange, lime and green apple flavors. Cleansing and acidic on the finish, with lemony snap.
Typically fresh and fruity, this strawberry-jelly flavored wine is light, ripe and soft. With fresh acidity and only a hint of tannins, it is ready to drink.
Typically intense, polished and smooth up front, this has concentrated aromas of graphite, cola, wild berry, spice, coconut and wood. It feels full and makes a statement on the palate, where baked, earthy, fully loaded flavors of clove, herb and black fruit hold court. Oaky and spicy on the finish, this needs another 2–4 years to fully settle.
Typically Nairac, this is elegant and delicate, with great freshness and acidity. While it is not hugely concentrated, it is beautifully ripe, an aperitif style rather than for dessert.
Typically rich, this Pinot Noir-based Champagne is ripe with red apple, quince and plum flavors. The fruit is balanced by the steel and mineral edge that gives the wine a tight texture.
Typically semi-sweet style of rosé, crisp and clean, flavored with ripe strawberries. Good as an apéritif or with spicy dishes. Screwcap.
Typically soft and ripe, this is already a delicious, fruity wine. It is strongly perfumed and has the acidity typical of the vintage. Ripe red fruits and acidity are well balanced, with dry tannins that are still in the background. Drink the wine from 2018.
Typically spicy, this wine is all about intense perfumes. Very soft, ripe and rounded, it will be better as a sweet apéritif than with food.
Typically the most forward of the winery's offerings, this wine brings aromas of blue fruit along with notes of fire pit, olive, mineral and cured meat that become more prominent over time. The blue and black-fruit flavors are dense and focused, with a firm backbone of tannins providing support. It needs time in the cellar to stretch its legs.
Typically young and fruity, this wine is packed with fresh cherry fruits and plenty of acidity. It's almost crisp and should be drunk now.
Uccelliera's savory Rosso offers a compact mouthfeel, with bright acidity, silky tannins and bright berry aromas. Pair this wine with lamb stewed with exotic spices and grated ginger.
Uccelliera regularly produces powerhouse Brunellos. This Rosso evidently represents a change of pace because instead of power and intensity, you get ethereal aromas of wild berry and green spice. There's also an unexpected touch of sour cherry on the close.
Ugo Lequio is a winemaker who presents some of the best expressions from the Gallina Cru. This shows bright berry and cola characteristics, with beautiful complexity and fresh acidity.
Ugolforte Brunello opens with perfumed aromas of blue flower, wild berries, white cherry, cinnamon, vanilla and a slight hint of toasted coconut. In fact, those oak-driven aromas could use more time to integrate. The mouthfeel, however, is more evolved at this stage with bright acidity and a spicy aftertaste.
Ultra-fresh and snappy, but a little light and neutral when it comes to fruit character. The palate is totally spunky and alive, with bouncy but mild flavors of lime, white grapefruit and orange. Clean and likable, with good focus but only medium-level intensity and power. Drink now.
Ultra-rich, with chocolate-infused dark berry flavors, splashed with cassis and accented with smoky new oak. Although the wine, which is 100% Cabernet, is totally dry, it's soft, which accentuates the alcohol, making it taste a bit hot and unbalanced.
Ultra-rich, with the weight and creamy texture of a full-blown Chardonnay, but it's a little too exotically rich and heavy for balance. Although the wine is fully dry, the flavors of pineapple cinnamon buns, butterscotchy toffee and Lifesaver lemons and limes are overwhelming.
Ultra-ripe, this Cab is decadently tasty, but not really dry. It's almost as gooey soft and sweet as a dessert pastry, with flavors of pie crust, chocolate pudding, sweet blackberry jam, currants and licorice. Drink now.
Ultra Brut, the original no-dosage Champagne, is the name and that's just how this bone-dry wine tastes. It's totally crisp, fruity, structured and fresh. Acidity from tight citrus combines with apples and pears to produce a wine that offers both fruitiness and dryness. Like many super-dry Champagnes, it will benefit from some bottle aging, so drink at least six months after purchase.
Ultra concentrated and sticky, with unctuous but wholesome raisin aromas taken to a level that's almost heavenly. In the mouth, the maple, cinnamon and brown sugar flavors are lusty and satisfying, and the finish never ends. This is P.X. in awesome form.
Ultra smoky and baked, with aromas of campfire, berry marmalade and fine herbs. At 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc, this is rich but balanced. It shows a cushioned mouthfeel and lively flavors of black cherry, cola, chocolate and even some cumin. Finishes roasted and firm, with a backbone of tannins. Drink now through 2011.
Ultraconcentrated and almost heavy on the nose, but not fully syrupy or leaden. Has a heavy disposition in the mouth, with brown sugar, caramel and other usual suspects making up the flavor profile. Creamy and chunky on the finish. Excellent dessert wine for the price.
Ultradry and tart in acidity, this is not a Chardonnay for those looking for richness. With citrus and mineral flavors, it's suggestive of a young, minor Chablis. Clean and vibrant. Drink now.
Ultrarich and fruity, this Cabernet shows the grapey ripeness Paso Robles is famous for. The wine is fresh and jammy in blackberries, cherries and raspberries. It's a little one-dimensional, and the alcohol is very high, but not hot. Drink now.
Ultrarich and spicy, with exotic flavors of bacon, cherry pie, cola and sandalwood. Notable for its structure, so dry and sturdy in tannins, yet so silky. A big, full-bodied wine, it should develop bottle complexity over the next four years.
Ultraripe aromas of blackberry, cassis, raisin, tobacco and vanilla lead to a plush flush palate with kick-ass tannins. This tastes of baked blackberry, cassis and chocolate, while the finish is stout and dense as a brick. If you like full-bodied, ripe and saturated reds, this was made for you. Drink through 2025.
Ultraripe berry, herb, cedar, and toast aromas. Refined plum, licorice, and coffee flavors show great appeal, and the supple, elegant mouthfeel plays into the finish with dark fruit and cocoa-powder notes. Bright tannins and good fruit-to-acid balance promise a fine future. Hold for two to four years; drink to 2014.
Ultraripe black currant, chocolate, date and oak flavors mark this Cabernet. It's as rich as Raymond's other District Collection Cabs, yet somehow has greater vitality and energy. Drink now, after decanting, and through 2022.
Ultraripe black fruits—berries and cherries, along with raisins—reflect the high alcohol. Even so, the wine carries an impression of almost sugary sweetness, as if still not fermented completely dry. Spice cake and plum pudding, with heat on the finish, mark this as extreme by previous Fielding Hills standards. Drink soon.
Ultraripe fruit, strong tannins and porty, high alcohol give this wine a certain rusticity. Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petite Sirah in almost equal parts, it's rich in blackberries, red licorice, crushed peppercorn and sandalwood.
Ultraripe in pineapple, tropical fruit and oaky vanilla flavors, this white blend is almost as sweet as a dessert wine. It's fortunately balance with mouthwatering acidity.
Ultraripe, almost to the point of being syrupy and soupy. The nose is all sweet licorice, baked fruit and raisin. In the mouth, there's some tannic bite but mostly it's a rich, bruising, unctuous wine with smoky, rich berry flavors and a sweet, toasty finish.
Ultraripe, simple and almost as sweet as jelly, with flavors of cherries, raspberries and vanilla. The alcohol is 15.9%.
Ultrasmooth and luxurious in the mouth, with the fine tannins and complex cherry, blueberry, anise and mocha flavors of a fine red wine, and the finish is dry and lingering. It's a bit soft and hot, but a lovely Merlot to drink now.
Ultratight cherry and plum aromas create a lean red fruit profile. The palate is extra crisp and sheer, with piercing raspberry then a wash of oak flavor. Paper thin on the finish, with freshening acids and a final blast of oak.
Umani Ronchi makes some of the best Verdicchio you will find in the United States today. There's a sweet candied quality to the bouquet that is followed by ripe fruit and pineapple. In the mouth, the wine is smooth and silky.
Unabashed in its alcohol levels, but not really boozy in any overdone way, this bottling offers very fresh, juicy and boisterous aromas of violet, candied blueberry, asphalt and pepper on the nose. The palate also starts with ripe blackberry and blueberry then grows more serious with grippy tannins and a zingy acidity. Dark chocolate and charred meat show in the midpalate.
Unabashedly appealing, this 100% varietal, full-bore wine displays aromas of dark plum, milk chocolate and clove. The flavors are sweet, rich and palate-coating, leading to a persistent finish.
Unabashedly bold, this Texas rosé hits the nose with a dose of lilac and rose perfume that lingers a bit obtrusively onto the palate. Off-dry in style, it's chunky on the palate, but finishes nicely, with a hint of tart red-plum flavors. Drink now.
Unabashedly buttery and oaky in aroma and flavor, this first-class, full-bodied wine has a mouth-filling, creamy texture that lingers long into the finish. It starts with buttered toast and almond aromas and opens into a rich pear-and-hazelnut palate, its flavors unfolding in nuanced layers.
Unabashedly exhibits thick layers of roasted nut, espresso bean, black chocolate and spicy pipe tobacco. The wine is modern and plush and seems to be bursting at the seams in terms of richness and concentration.
Unabashedly New World in style, Peregrine's 2009 combines lusty fruit with ample oak accents to create a moderately complex, silky-textured Pinot  Noir. The cherry fruit is accented by hints of vanilla, graham cracker and a delicate wreath of smoked meat. Drink now–2017.
Unabashedly tropical on the nose and palate with gobs of ripe mango, guava and peach, this cheerful Chardonnay is fresh and juicy, with lemon-lime acidity and a surprisingly-elegant minerality on the finish. Drink now.
Unapologetically sweet and luxuriously fruity, this wine is like a blackberry pie in a glass. It will be just the thing to serve as dessert, or to warm up a cold evening. It's full bodied, very thick and smooth in texture, and has a lingering finish like that of a Port.
Unbalanced, with citrus fruit flavors that taste distinctly sugary mixed with sharp, green mintiness.
Unbalanced, with lots of acidity, hard tannins and raisiny flavors alongside green ones.
Unbalanced, with sweet cherry and orange jam flavors and acidity that's almost sour.
Unbalanced, with vegetal and stewed cherry-berry flavors that have a sun-baked edge. Soft in acids, too, which makes it a little flat.
Unbalanced, with weedy, grassy flavors side by side with sweet spearmint chewing gum and pineapple LifeSaver candy. Crisp acidity gives it the sweet-sour taste of certain Chinese sauces.
Unbelievable that there's no oak on this Chardonnay. It's so rich and creamy in vanilla, tangerine, peach and apricot flavors, you won't miss that hit of buttered toast. The acidity is marvelous.
Unbelievably rich and decadent, this tastes of honey drizzled over crushed ripe pineapples, guavas and pears. Added hints of buttered toast, vanilla bean, caramel and sweet cream come with scads of savory pie spices.
Unbelievably rich and delicious, this is a joy to drink. It continues the winery's long record with this vineyard, reaching toward its apex with this 2009. Made from 100% Cabernet and aged in nearly two-thirds new French oak, it's elaborate, layered and complex, offering juicy notes of blackberry, black currant and dark chocolate, with sweet toast and vanilla flavors that continue onto the spicy finish. If you can keep your hands off it, this will develop over the next 10–15 years.
Unbelievably rich, this tastes pretty much as excellent as the winery's more expensive Chardonnays. It really dazzles with its complex flavors of tropical fruit, green apple, pear, buttered toast and honey. It's all brightened by terrific acidity and wrapped into a creamy texture.
Unchallenged as the world's best-selling Champagne, this bottling is impressive. It has become slightly drier over the years, currently emphasizing the fruit quality with apple and lime flavors. The acidity and crisp texture make it immediately attractive. Light and fruity at the end, it is a good apéritif wine.
Uncommon exotic blueberry aromas are lean and grassy. In the mouth, this is high in acidity and scouring. Flavors match the nose, meaning this tastes sour and exotic, while the finish is sharp and scrubbing.
Uncomplicated and tasty, this is a nice Cabernet for everyday purposes. It's dry and silky, with pleasant cherry, blackberry, mocha and cedar flavors.
Uncomplicated berry and plum aromas are easy to process. This everyday Cabernet feels complete despite showing rubbery grabby tannins. Lightly herbal plum and berry flavors finish tight, bright and fresh.
Uncomplicated yet tasty, this medium-bodied, mild-textured wine has a pure raspberry/strawberry character from the bright aroma to the ripe flavors to the lingering finish. The balance is on the soft side due to low acidity and little astringency from tannins.
Unconventional but outstanding, this wine is an earthy throwback to an earlier era, from its light, brownish color to its dried leaf, rhubarb and wet earth aromas to its lean but complex red cherry, rhubarb and cranberry flavors. Wild yeast and wild bacteria were used for the primary and malolactic fermentations, respectively.
Unconvincing aromas are hard to describe. This Malbec sparkler is coarse and foamy on the palate, with burnt peppery slightly bitter flavors of orange and grapefruit.
Unctuous and bold with toasted oak flavor, this wine shines with layers of ripe, round pineapple and pear flavor.
Unctuous and earthy, this medium-bodied wine is more about subtle and savory herb notes than deep fruit. With its light fruit characteristics and bold spice elements, it will make a versatile choice for the table.
Unctuous and intoxicating in dried apricot, honey and peach, this is a lovely example of the variety, which is rarely planted in Northern California, let alone on the Sonoma Coast. This shows the grape's promise, offering both crispness and creaminess on the palate and finish.
Unctuous and made in a robust style, this wine offers a taste of caramel apple and hazelnut, with the illusion of sweetened oak amid a persistent finish.
Unctuous and ripe in caramel and toasty aromas, this is deep golden in color but completely crisp and balanced in the glass. The nose is so overwhelming that the flavors take time to show. Once they do, it's a celebration of green apple and melon enveloped in complex minerality and a supple body.
Unctuous in mouthfeel, this white offers ripe peach, almost a peach cobbler, with a complement of vanilla. The bouquet is somewhat grassy and herbal, before an explosion of fruit and cream is delivered on the full-bodied palate.
Unctuous mango and peach flavors are accented by hints of candle wax and dried herbs on this delicate but intensely concentrated Riesling. Silky and sweet in texture, it's brightened by streaks of orange acidity and touches of saffron and lemon peel that linger on the finish.
Unctuous texture is the telltale sign of quality  in a rich, sweet, botrytized wine. This wine has traded the spice of a Gewurztraminer with a palate full of honey and delicate lemon acidity. It is a fine, complex wine that is developing well. Drink until 2020.
Unctuous, with a profound sense of the salty sea, this wine is both rich and bright, balanced between crisp, defined acidity and complex depth of flavor. Lemon verbena and quince compete against a more nuanced, satisfying bite of caramelized pear as the finish refreshes.
Unctuously honeyed and floral, this is an irressistably pretty auslese that's sweet with peach and pear nectar, but vibrant, almost searing, with citrus acidity. It's not the most complex in style, but it's appealing for its decadent style and lingering sugar-laced finish.
Unctuously ripe melon and tangerine aromas turn flintier and earthier on the palate in this full-bodied Riesling. It's dry and densely textured, heaving with silken layers of lime and lemon, but vivaciously brisk. The finish is long and nuanced, amplified by subtle cardamom and sweet spice hints. It's beautiful now but should improve further through at least 2025.
Unctuously ripe yellow peach and cherry aromas entice on the nose of this sprightly late-harvest Riesling. It's semi-sweet and fruity, with tart tangerine acidity that takes the spotlight on the palate. A refreshing, tasty quaffer for a remarkable price.
Undefined black fruit aromas are average at best, while the cherry fruit is decent but citric. This wine shows too little to warrant much attention; it's brittle but persisent, with thin, cleansing acids throughout.
Undeniably riper than the 2011, this soft and smooth wine offers pretty red plum and cherry pit flavors, lightly spicy and supple. Lovely though it is, the wine tilts toward a high-toned finish, suggesting that it's best consumed young.
Under all of the oak-derived buttered toast and caramel aromas and flavors exists a crisp, clean Pinot Noir that bears notes of raspberry and cherry.
Under any new classification, this should certainly be a classed growth. Today it is among the leaders of the crus bourgeois. The 2000 is opulent, generous, stylish. The tannins are ripe and sweet, the fruit is finely balanced. It will develop well over the next 10-15 years.
Under control on the bouquet, this has pear and apple aromas. The wine feels round, juicy and pure, with oak, toast, lemon, apple and spice flavors. Barrel influence creates a peppery, dry and spicy finish, and overall this blend of Viura and Malvasia is on the money. Drink now.
Under new ownership, Prieuré-Lichine continues its rapid quality improvement. The wine is concentrated, with dark tannins and brooding fruit, dominated by new wood. It is rich, but also structured for a steady development over 10-15 years.
Under new winemaking and vineyard protocols, this producer is working with estate-grown fruit across all its wines. This one shows a rich, rounded approach that never gets overly ripe, instead embracing a sanguine, savory profile of cranberry and red currant wrapped in toasted oak.
Under the attention of the Miecaze family, this ancient estate has burst out of a dormant period and into new life with vineyards, a winery, a restaurant and a B&B. This latest vintage is powerfully dense and with great swathes of tannins and perfumed fruit. The wine is stylish, while also being ripe and full in the mouth. It has fine potential and will be ready from 2020.
Under the control of white wine wizard Denis Dubourdieu, this is one of the great wines of Barsac. It has intensity of sweetness, but just the right lightness, which gives it freshness as well as richness. This is a great wine in its early stages, and is certainly likely to age over many years.
Under the Feather label, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon styled by Napa's Randy Dunn s the only one pure varietal red wine in the Long Shadows collection. Eucalyptus aromas rise instantly as it's poured, leading into a smooth, appealing flavors of plum and cassis fruit. It fades rather quickly, even after being open for a few hours, leaving just an impression of chocolate from the barrel aging. It lacks the heft of past vintages.
Under the guidance of Tuscany's Mazzei brothers, Doppiozeta is a New World wine from an Old World tradition. The blend is 60% Nero d'Avola with the balance comprised of Syrah and Cabernet Franc. It offers modern accents of chocolate fudge and spice behind territory-driven layers of small berry fruit, wild sage and toasted pistachio.
Under the ownership of American Stephen Adams, this estate is showing promise. The wine is finely structured, a smoky bacon element mingling well with fresh red plum and firm tannins. The core is dry, solid, showing wood, finishing with vivid minerality and acidity.
Under the ownership of Jacky Lorenzetti, president of one of France's top rugby clubs, this estate is now performing impressively. The wine is finely structured with dark tannins and tight acidity and a hint of minerality. It is Merlot dominated, although it is the 40% Cabernet Sauvignon that brings out the black-currant fruitiness. Drink from 2022.
Under the regime of Gérard Perse, Pavie seems to have become more opulent, more extracted, and, dare I say it, more simplistic. The richness of the 2000 vintage lends itself to this technique. While it is a wonderful, immediately appealing wine, with its intense dark fruits, it seem to lack the complexity of other wines of similar status.
Under the same family ownership as Château Lamothe-Cissac, this estate has produced a broa rich wine, dominated by its 60% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is rounded already with juicy blackberry fruits and dark tannins. Drink this already fruity wine from 2019.
Under the same ownership as Château de Panigon, this property (which has a heart on its cork) has produced a wine offering layers of smoky wood as well as ripe fruit. That solid structure suggests the wine will need time to develop. The aftertaste boosts a more juicy fruitiness.
Under the same ownership as Château la Dominique in Saint-Émilion, Clément-Pichon has produced a richly juicy 2012. Firm structure underlies the generous fruits, while the acidity and the dry core of tannins promise good aging. Drink from 2017.
Under the same ownership as Château la Dominique in Saint-Emilion, this estate continues to make impressive wine. With its subtle tannins and ripe berry fruits, it is structured while never letting the tannins overwhelm the fruit. It is an impressive wine to age, so drink from 2021.
Under the same ownership as Château la Dominque in neighboring Saint-Emilion, this estate produces 100% Merlot. This generous wine with its rich tannins is dark with tight acidity, juicy black fruits and dark coffee flavors. It is concentrated and is going to take many years to soften. Drink from 2023.
Under the same ownership as Château Roubine, this estate has old vines, some up to 60-years-old. The wine is rich and with concentration as well as a crisper edge. It is full of red-berry fruits, sharpened with red-currant acidity. This is a ripe wine that will be better from late 2017.
Under the same ownership as Lynch-Bages, Les Ormes de Pez offers a family likeness in the richness of this wine. At the same time, dry tannins are very much up front—“firm” is the word to describe this wine, which needs 2–3 years to open up.
Under the serious amount of wood, this wine feels rich and concentrated. Wood spice, a touch burnt, along with chocolate and black currant fruit show both extraction and the need for 2–3 years' aging.
Under the watchful eye of consultant Eric Delacroix, the Bazin twins (Thierry and Odile) created a wine that is dark and dense. This is a young wine with good potential. Its black fruits and solid tannins are rich and structured. Acidity and ripeness go together and will let the wine develop well. Drink from 2019.
Under the watchful eye of consultant Michel Rolland, Candale has produced an intense, powerful expression of super-ripe Merlot. The tannins are dense, powering through the dark berry fruit, rounded by the wood. It could do with 4–5 years aging.
Underbrush and dark-skinned fruit aromas lift out of the glass along with a hint of nut. The soft fruity palate offers black cherry, spice and a hint coffee. Round tannins and bright acidity provide the easy-drinking framework.
Underbrush, berry, blue flower and rose lead the nose. Still closed, the firm palate eventually reveals dry cherry, licorice and baking spice. A backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provides support. It closes on a menthol note.
Underbrush, black-skinned fruit, exotic spice, leather and balsamic aromas emerge on this full-bodied red. The austere structured palate offers dried black cherry, star anise, tobacco and clove framed in bracing, fine-grained tannins. Don't even attempt it for another few years. Drink 2021–2031.
Underbrush, blackberry, blue flower and mocha lead the nose on this blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The dense palate offers cassis, black cherry, black pepper, espresso and licorice alongside youthfully assertive tannins. Drink 2016–2021.
Underbrush, camphor and new leather aromas unfold in this taut red. The linear palate shows red cherry, pomegranate, espresso and star anise flavors alongside a crushed sage note. Assertive tannins and racy acidity lend grip to the finish. Drink 2022–2032.
Underbrush, camphor, balsamic notes, game, French oak and oak-driven spice lead the nose. The tight, firmly structured palate shows oak, mature plum, baked fruit and a hint of vanilla alongside assertive, grainy tannin that dry out the finish.
Underbrush, camphor, dark berry and balsamic aromas take center stage on this radiant wine. The palate shows structure and finesse, delivering licorice, black cherry, French oak and a hint of exotic spice. Firm acidity and assertive tannins provide an age-worthy framework. Drink 2020–2035.
Underbrush, charred earth, ripe dark-skinned fruit, grilled herb and a whiff of cooking spice aromas all come together on this chewy red. The round palate doles out fleshy black cherry, cured meat, chopped herb and tobacco while a touch of star anise backs up the finish. Robust, velvety tannins support the juicy fruit. This will offer fine near-to-mid-term pleasure.
Underbrush, chocolate, tobacco and black plum aromas take center stage on this bold wine. The palate delivers prune, roasted coffee bean, black pepper and licorice alongside bracing tannins. A graphite note signals the close. Drink after 2018.
Underbrush, chopped aromatic herb, dark spice and balsamic aromas come together in the glass. Firmly structured and elegant with a backbone of taut, refined tannins, the palate doles out ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and baking spice flavors. Drink 2020–2032.
Underbrush, chopped aromatic herb, wild berry and a hint of new leather are the main scent notes. The bright, structured palate is full of layers of juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon, mint and tobacco set against a backbone of chewy tannins. It's already accessible, and while not loaded with complexity, it is delicious. Drink through 2020.
Underbrush, coconut, espresso and floral aromas lead the nose. It's full-bodied but lean in terms of fruit richness, offering exotic spice, roasted coffee bean and a hint of licorice while aggressive grainy tannins leave a mouth-drying astringent finish.
Underbrush, cooking spices, dark berry and scorched earth aromas waft out of the glass. On the firm, full-bodied palate, licorice, tobacco and clove accent the core of ripe black cherry. Firm, well-integrated tannins give it a structured but polished feel. Drink 2018–2028.
Underbrush, crushed blue flower, fig, charred earth and ripe black cherry aromas come together on this full-bodied red. The brooding, muscular palate delivers blackberry jam, raisin, licorice and tobacco while tightly knit, ripe tannins provide support. Drink after 2017.
Underbrush, cured meat, grilled herb, menthol and dark-skinned fruit aromas unfold in the glass. The chewy palate offers dried black berry, black cherry, licorice, coffee and toasted nut alongside tightly packed tannins. Drink 2019–2022.
Underbrush, cured meat, new leather, camphor and a whiff of cellar floor are some of the aromas you'll find on this. On the firm palate, notes of grilled sage, anise and espresso accent a red-cherry core alongside austere tannins that grip the finish. Drink 2020–2028.
Underbrush, dark-skinned berry, chopped mint and cooking spice aromas lead the way on this fabulous, structured wine. The full-bodied palate delivers a juicy core of ripe black cherry while white pepper, cinnamon, dried herb and a balsamic note provide the backdrop. Firm but refined tannins and fresh acidity provide balance and support. Drink 2018–2030.
Underbrush, dark berry and pressed violet aromas waft out of the glass. On the simple, easy-drinking palate, notes of cooking spice accent the black cherry core. Soft tannins and fresh acidity provide support. Drink soon.
Underbrush, dark berry and spice aromas lead the nose. The palate doles out ripe blackberry, raspberry, clove, espresso and a hint of herb alongside soft, supple tannins.
Underbrush, dark berry and tilled soil aromas come together along with a whiff of iris. On the brisk palate, dried sage, anise and orange peel accent the tart cherry core. Bracing acidity provides the backbone.
Underbrush, dark berry, scorched earth and spice aromas emerge on this full-bodied red. The structured, refined palate delivers layers of ripe black cherry, blackberry jam, ripe raspberry, licorice and tobacco alongside firm, rounded tannins that give it a velvety texture. Drink 2017–2026.
Underbrush, dark spice, mature berry and balsamic notes emerge in the glass. The chewy palate doles out juicy Marasca cherry, black raspberry and licorice flavors with a hint of pipe tobacco, while youthfully firm, seasoned tannins provide the framework. Drink 2019–2017.
Underbrush, dill, new leather, smoke and spiced plum aromas lead the way. The austere palate offers red cherry, pomegranate, licorice, tobacco and a mineral note set against close-grained tannins that grip the finish.
Underbrush, dried herb, raisin, saddle leather and balsamic aromas follow over to the ripe palate along with dried cherry, crushed herb and ground clove. Taut tightly wound tannins provide a grippy framework. Give the tannins a few years to unwind then drink to capture the remaining fruit.
Underbrush, dried mushroom, ripe dark-skinned fruit and cake spice aromas lead the nose on this accessible, robust red. The warm, hearty palate offers dried black cherry steeped in spirits, licorice and the heat of evident alcohol. Velvety tannins provide the setting.
Underbrush, dried plum, resin, leather and a whiff of baking spice aromas slowly emerge in the glass. The big chewy palate shows juicy blackberry, ripe black cherry, tobacco and clove set against a backbone of firm velvety tannins. Despite its heft, it also boasts surprising finesse. Hold for even more complexity. Drink 2017–2025.
Underbrush, dried rose, aromatic herb and a balsamic note of menthol slowly take shape. The full-bodied palate offers French oak, licorice, espresso, raspberry jam and mint alongside aggressive, somewhat grainy, tannins that leave a bracing finish. Drink 2019–2028.
Underbrush, dried tobacco leaf, dark-skinned fruit and espresso aromas form in the glass. The firm palate offers crushed red cherry, licorice, tobacco and sage alongside tightly woven tannins that need time to unwind. Drink 2020–2030.
Underbrush, dried tobacco leaf, roasted coffee and balsamic notes lead the nose. The tightly wound palate is lean, offering sour cherry, pomegranate, licorice and espresso notes, clenched by close-grained tannins on the finish.
Underbrush, dried wild flower and aromatic herb aromas come together in the glass. The full-bodied palate offers dried black cherry, licorice, leather, mint and clove alongside firm, polished tannins. Drink soon to capture the remaining fruit flavors.
Underbrush, forest floor, crushed violet, new leather, mature plum and graphite aromas lead the nose on this brawny red. The hearty palate delivers dried black cherry, blackberry, nutmeg, grilled sage and licorice alongside youthfully aggressive but ripe tannins. Drink 2015–2025.
Underbrush, French oak, Mediterranean herb, menthol and blackberry aromas unfold on this elegantly structured red. The full-bodied palate offers ripe black cherry, cinnamon, star anise and chopped mint alongside fine-grained tannins. This is still young and needs to develop to its full potential. Drink 2018–2028.
Underbrush, grilled herb, camphor and toasted notes lead the nose of this wine. The palate is raw, showing unripe cherry, orange peel and clove flavors alongside bracing tannins.
Underbrush, grilled herb, exotic spice, raspberry jam and balsamic aromas lift out of the glass. Round and ripe, the warm and forward palate presents dried black cherry, licorice, pipe tobacco and white pepper framed in firm fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2026.
Underbrush, grilled herb, new leather and spiced plum aromas lead the nose of this chewy Brunello. The palate doles out juicy black cherry, raspberry compote, licorice and pipe tobacco notes, framed by robust, fine-grained tannins. Despite the powerful structure and hefty alcohol, it has elegance. Drink 2019–2027.
Underbrush, grilled herb, roasted coffee bean and dark-skinned berry aromas unfold in the glass. The elegantly structured palate delivers red cherry, raspberry, sage, anise and clove framed in bright acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2020.
Underbrush, grilled porcini mushroom, leather and a whiff of iris lead the nose. On the youthfully assertive palate, clove, star anise, orange peel and aromatic herb accent tart red cherry while firm tannins and fresh acidity provide the backbone.
Underbrush, grilled porcini mushroom, leather and ripe dark berry aromas lead the nose on this hearty red. On the firmly structured palate, notes of graphite, ground pepper, smoke and tobacco accent a core of ripe black cherry while fine-grained tannins provide support.
Underbrush, grilled porcini, chopped herb, tilled soil aromas and a hint of stewed fruit unfold in the glass. The developed palate doles out layers of mature black cherry, raspberry compote, chopped mint, tobacco and anise set along against a backbone of fine-grained tannins. It will be even better in a few years but it's not built for long-term cellaring.
Underbrush, grilled porcini, red berry and grilled herb aromas lead the way. The bracing palate offers dried wild cherry, clove, cinnamon and powdered sage alongside astringent tannins. Drink after 2018.
Underbrush, grilled porcini, roasted herb and menthol emerge in the glass. The medium-bodied, structured palate is initially closed but eventually reveals dark berry, white pepper, sage and orange zest alongside clenched tannins. It closes on a licorice note.
Underbrush, herb and woodland berry aromas take center stage in this fragrant red. The full-bodied palate deals morello cherry, cranberry and licorice, alongside firm, refined tannins. Drink through 2018–2023.
Underbrush, intense rose petal, rosemary, grilled herbs and red berry scents leap from the glass. Polished and almost pulsating with energy, the palate displays succulent red cherry, sage, leather, cinnamon and white pepper alongside supple tannins and vibrant acidity. Drink after 2020 for more complexity.
Underbrush, iris, rose and berry aromas take center stage while the ripe, dense palate offers cherry marinated in spirits, white pepper and grilled sage. Tightly wound, bracing tannins provide the backbone. Drink after 2020.
Underbrush, leather, black pepper, clove and leather lead the nose on this brawny wine. The spicy palate offers allspice, anisette, concentrated black cherry and juicy raspberry alongside strapping tannins. It's one-dimensional but savory. Enjoy through 2015.
Underbrush, leather, pressed rose and dark spice aromas lead the nose. The tight full-bodied palate opens with raw sour cherry, pomegranate and star anise alongside assertive tannins but it falls apart quickly, leaving an abrupt lean finish.
Underbrush, leather, scorched earth, ripe black-skinned berry and a whiff of sweet baking spice abound on this. The big bold palate offers layers of ripe Morello cherry, raspberry jam, cinnamon, vanilla and a confectionary note. Hearty, somewhat grainy tannins grip the finish. Drink from 2017 through 2022.
Underbrush, leather, spice and savory herb aromas lead the nose. The smooth palate offers juicy dark cherry, mint, tobacco and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
Underbrush, leather, sun-baked soil and chopped herb aromas emerge from this structured red. Loaded with personality, the palate delivers juicy layers of ripe Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, baking spice and pipe tobacco flavors, framed by firm, chewy tannins. It's a full-bodied wine that will reward several more years of cellaring. Drink 2019–2032.
Underbrush, leather, tilled soil and game aromas lead the nose on this delicious, structured wine. The big, warm palate delivers juicy black cherry, carob, mocha and cinnamon alongside big, velvety tannins. This is aging well with nice depth, but it's in its ideal drinking window. Enjoy now through 2017.
Underbrush, mature berry, leather and grilled herb aromas lead the way. The ripe, chewy palate offers juicy wild cherry, cinnamon, menthol and a hint of anise while seasoned tannins give the finish a firm grip. It's rather straightforward but enjoyable. Drink 2018–2025.
Underbrush, mature black-skinned fruit, worn leather and scorched earth aromas lead the way. The firm, chewy palate offers mature plum, juicy Morello cherry, clove, anise and tobacco framed in tightly wound tannins. Drink 2019–2028.
Underbrush, mature dark-skinned fruit, aromatic herb, menthol and baking spice aromas lead the nose on this full-bodied red. The bold palate delivers mature black cherry, fig, chopped mint, pipe tobacco and clove set against a firm backbone of velvety tannins. Fresh acidity lifts the finish. Despite its robust structure, it's also surprisingly easy to drink—rare for Amarone.
Underbrush, Mediterranean herb, sunbaked soil and a whiff of sea breeze are some of the aromas you'll find on this blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot. The round chewy palate offers dried black cherry, star anise, grilled bell pepper and espresso alongside velvety tannins. Enjoy over the next several years.
Underbrush, menthol, dark berry and allspice aromas take shape in the glass. The simple palate, which has a slightly fizzy character, offers fleshy black cherry, overripe plum and soft acidity alongside buffed tannins.
Underbrush, menthol, new leather and black-skinned berry aromas emerge in the glass. The smooth, full-bodied palate delivers juicy black cherry, baking spice, tobacco and mineral alongside firm, velvety tannins.
Underbrush, mint, graphite, leather, mocha and tobacco are just some of the aromas of this full-bodied red. The palate offers dried black cherry, tobacco and a hint of coffee alongside mature, buffed tannins. This is at its ideal drinking window so enjoy over the next few years.
Underbrush, mint, rosemary and wild berry aromas lead the nose and follow through to the elegantly structured palate, along with accents of white pepper and orange zest. It's young and beautifully balanced thanks to firm acidity and assertive but fine-grained tannins. A mineral note closes the lingering finish. Drink 2016–2030.
Underbrush, moist earth, blue flower and spiced plum aromas take shape in the glass. The palate offers juicy morello cherry, cooking spice, grilled sage and a hint of espresso alongside firm, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity.
Underbrush, moist soil, menthol and woodland berry aromas unfold in the glass. The structured palate offers ripe black cherry, raspberry, licorice and a hint of mocha alongside fine-grained tannins and bright acidity.
Underbrush, new leather, menthol, culinary spice, dark fruit and toast aromas take center stage in this wine. The elegantly structured and linear palate delivers red cherry, strawberry, cinnamon and white pepper flavors set against bright acidity and taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2033.
Underbrush, oak and crushed mint aromas lead the nose. The palate is firm, evoking macerated cherry, star anise and vanilla flavors enveloped in dusty tannins that leave a grainy finish.
Underbrush, oak, mature black fruit and a leather note lead the nose on this wine. The ripe palate begins with lush black cherry accented with grilled sage, thyme, black pepper, vanilla and mocha. But the fleeting tannins, soft acidity and lack of energy show this is already evolved. Drink through 2019.
Underbrush, oak, mint, blackberry and licorice sensations all come together on this full-bodied Rosso. Showing the warmth of the vintage, it's forward and very accessible so enjoy now with hearty first courses.
Underbrush, oak, wild berry, herb and balsamic notes lead the nose of this Brunello. Tightly wound, fine-grained tannins frame cranberry, red cherry, orange zest and white pepper flavors on the palate. A hint of star anise signals the close. Drink 2020–2027.
Underbrush, pipe tobacco, blue-flower, berry and star anise aromas unfold in the glass. The firm, elegant palate offers dried cherry, clove, mint and orange peel alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Underbrush, plum, blue flower and coffee aromas lead the nose on this concentrated blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. The dense, one-dimensional palate doles out blackberry, prune, licorice, grilled pepper and milk chocolate alongside velvety tannins.
Underbrush, porcini mushroom, chopped mint, used leather and eucalyptus aromas lead the nose. It's robust and somewhat one-dimensional, with flavors suggesting prune, dried cherry marinated in spirits, fig and a hint of cinnamon alongside big but not very persistent tannins.
Underbrush, pressed flowers and red berry aromas lead the nose. The easy-drinking palate offers ripe raspberry, black cherry, almond and a note of anise alongside polished tannins. This is already extremely accessible so enjoy now.
Underbrush, prune and a whiff of leather lead the nose. The palate offers raisin, dried black cherry, black pepper and a hint of glazed plum alongside big, round tannins.
Underbrush, raisin, charred earth, mocha and toast aromas lead the nose. The palate offers dried black cherry, prune, chocolate, toasted oak, vanilla and a green note of dried sage alongside astringent tannins. It lacks fruit richness to stand up to the oak.
Underbrush, red berry and clove aromas carry over to the linear palate, which is steeped in espresso flavor. While it's already accessible, fine-grained tannins give it a firm structure. Drink through 2020.
Underbrush, red berry and coffee bean lead the nose while the light-bodied palate offers red cherry, clove and a hint of grilled sage. It's easygoing, with loose-knit, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Enjoy now.
Underbrush, red berry, scorched earth and dark spice aromas emerge in the glass. The structured, chewy palate offers mature black cherry, clove, ground pepper and star anise set in a firm framework of fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
Underbrush, red fruit, dark spice and a whiff of menthol are some of the aromas that come together on this. The firmly structured elegant palate offers ripe plum, red cherry, licorice and tobacco framed in youthfully austere fine-grained tannins that need time to unwind. Drink 2020–2028.
Underbrush, ripe berry, menthol, Asian spice and a whiff of aromatic herb come together in the glass. The straightforward palate offers dried wild cherry, cranberry, chopped mint and anise alongside polished tannins.
Underbrush, ripe berry, new leather and Mediterranean herb aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Showing youthful tension, the vibrant palate delivers red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and pipe tobacco notes framed by bright acidity and taut, refined tannins. It already shows great balance and finesse but is still young and tight. Drink 2022–2035.
Underbrush, ripe plum and baking spice aromas waft out of the glass. On the palate, vanilla, licorice, dark chocolate and espresso accent the black cherry core while polished tannins provide the framework. Drink through 2017.
Underbrush, ripe plum, tilled earth and dark spice aromas come together in this. The soft, enveloping palate offers juicy black cherry, blackberry extract and licorice flavors, framed by round, pliant tannins. Enjoy through 2019.
Underbrush, rose, dark spice and black-skinned fruit aromas lead the nose of this elegantly structured red. The savory palate delivers fleshy plum, juicy black cherry licorice and ground pepper alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2018.
Underbrush, saddle leather, dark berry and culinary spice aromas slowly unfold in the glass. Succulent and full bodied, the firmly structured palate delivers raspberry compote, ripe Marasca cherry, baking spice and pipe tobacco framed in youthfully assertive but noble tannins and bright acidity. A savory mineral note lingers on the finish. This is one for the long haul. Drink 2025–2053.
Underbrush, scorched earth, chopped mint and roasted berry aromas lead the nose. The taut palate offers mature black cherry, clove, dried sage and toasted nut alongside tightly wound tannins that leave a firm finish. Drink 2019–2024.
Underbrush, scorched earth, dark spice and grilled herb aromas slowly take shape on this full-bodied red. The chewy, enveloping palate doles out mouthfuls of fleshy black cherry, juicy blackberry, ground pepper and clove while ripe tannins provide support. The lingering finish closes on a mocha note. Drink 2018–2026.
Underbrush, scorched earth, dried berry, violet and spice aromas slowly emerge on this generous, polished wine. On the palate, fine-grained tannins frame dried black cherry, grilled herb and anise. It's almost accessible and is going to offer terrific drinking in the near and mid-term. Enjoy 2017–2026.
Underbrush, scorched earth, dried tobacco leaf and camphor aromas emerge in the glass. The tight, compacted palate isn't extremely expressive but eventually reveals suggestions of raw cherry, grilled sage, clove and a hint of orange peel alongside drying tannins that leave a firm finish.
Underbrush, scorched earth, espresso and exotic spice aromas open. The taut, linear palate offers dried sour cherry, coffee bean and grilled sage alongside a backbone of austere, fine-grained tannins that leave a firm finish.
Underbrush, scorched earth, leather and camphor aromas lead the way along with an earthy whiff of game. On the ripe chewy palate, notes of crushed mint, clove, licorice and grilled porcini accent a juicy black-cherry core. Firm close-grained tannins offer taut support.
Underbrush, scorched earth, menthol and plum steeped in spirits are some of the aromas that unfold on the glass. The big, chewy palate doles out ripe wild cherry, raspberry jam, ground pepper and licorice alongside firm, velvety tannins. You'll also detect the warmth of alcohol on the finish.
Underbrush, scorched earth, ripe berry, blue flower and leather aromas take shape in the glass. The full-bodied enveloping palate doles out black cherry marinated in spirits, fleshy raspberry, truffle game and dark baking spice alongside firm, velvety tannins. A licorice note marks the finish. It's evolving quickly and won't need years to come around. Drink 2020–2030.
Underbrush, scorched earth, toast and crushed stone aromas emerge in the glass along with a whiff of dried herb. The firm palate doles out cherries marinated in spirits, espresso, star anise and clove alongside chewy tannins.
Underbrush, singed earth, mature dark-skinned fruit and a balsamic note emerge in the glass. The ripe, firm palate shows mocha, black raspberry and licorice as well as a slightly green note of raw sage. A backbone of bracing tannins provides the tight framework.
Underbrush, smoke, mocha and dark fruit aromas lead the nose and carry over to the ripe palate along with dried black cherry, licorice and clove. Firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. Drink 2018–2028.
Underbrush, spiced plum, vanilla and French oak are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied red. The dense palate offers dried black cherry, toast, coconut, licorice and oak-driven spice alongside round tannins. A walnut note closes the finish. Drink soon.
Underbrush, steeped prune, blue flower, exotic spice and vanilla aromas come together on this impressive, robust red. The round chewy palate delivers raisin, blackberry extract, tobacco, clove and licorice. Firm velvety tannins provide support. Drink through 2023.
Underbrush, stewed plum and a vanilla aromas lead the nose. The medium-bodied palate offers dried Morello cherry, orange zest, sage and star anise flavors, framed by firm tannins.
Underbrush, stewed prune and tobacco aromas follow over to the rather lean, evolved palate along with dried cherry, espresso and a hint of clove. Drink this over the next few years to capture the remaining fruit.
Underbrush, stewed prune, grilled herb and cedar aromas take center stage on this big bold wine. The densely packed syrupy palate offers blackberry, raisin, black cherry steeped in spirits and chewing tobacco alongside chewy tannins. The heat of alcohol and a confectionery note mark the finish.
Underbrush, sun-baked earth, black spice, menthol and mature dark-skinned fruit aromas jump out of the glass. The bold, full-bodied palate doles out raspberry jam, ripe Marasca cherry, ground pepper and licorice alongside firm, fine-grained tannins that provide seamless support. It's brawny and bold but the refined tannins also lend a measure of finesse.
Underbrush, sunbaked earth, cured meat, menthol, toast and mature plum aromas unfold in the glass. The ripe palate is mature and offers dried black, cherry, truffle, licorice, espresso and a funky hint of game alongside firm but somewhat fleeting tannins that leave a drying finish.
Underbrush, sunbaked soil, toast, and espresso aromas come together in the glass. The structured, tightly wound palate shows star anise, dried black cherry and a note of powdered sage with bracing tannins that grip the finish.
Underbrush, tilled earth, leather, ripe berry and a whiff of baking spice aromas meld together on this fragrant wine. The savory, refined palate offers juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and a tobacco note framed in firm, polished tannins. Drink through 2020.
Underbrush, tilled soil raspberry leather compote hint of baking spice meld together on this full-bodied wine. The ample palate boasts a core of juicy black cherry while notes of vanilla, mocha and cake spice provide accent. Fine-grained tannins lend structure. Drink 2018–2028.
Underbrush, tilled soil, violet, pressed rose petal and ripe berry aromas emerge on this polished, full-bodied red. The palate shows nice tension, offering juicy wild cherry, raspberry, ground clove, cinnamon and chopped herb framed by fine-grained tannins. A licorice note closes the firm finish.
Underbrush, toast and prune aromas lead the way. The lean, evolved palate offers raisin, dried blackcurrant, sage and anise but the fruit richness has dried out.
Underbrush, toast, dark-skinned berry and eucalyptus aromas lead the way. Firmly structured and elegant, the palate offers dried cherry, cranberry and star anise framed in fine-grained tannins. A coffee note wraps up the finish.
Underbrush, toast, oak-driven spice and balsamic aromas lead the nose. The lean bracing palate offers dried cranberry, roasted coffee bean, bitter almond and oak but not much fruit richness. Austere tannins give it an astringent finish.
Underbrush, toast, truffle, mocha, oak and berry aromas take center stage. The firm palate offers black cherry, coconut, espresso, powered sage and oak extract alongside tightly packed, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2017–2025.
Underbrush, toasted hazelnut, licorice and wild berry aromas lead the nose. The straightforward palate shows raw red cherry, orange peel and star anise alongside firm but refined tannins.
Underbrush, toasted oak and red berry aromas lift out of the glass. The bright, light-bodied palate doles out sour cherry, orange rind, oak, coffee and star anise. Fine-grained tannins and zesty acidity give support.
Underbrush, toasted oak, violet and baking spice aromas lead to the dense palate along with prune, dried cherry, vanilla and a hint of orange zest. Dusty fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink 2019–2027.
Underbrush, tobacco and spiced plum aromas lead the nose. On the straightforward palate, notes of anise and clove add depth to the black cherry core. It's easy drinking, with lithe tannins.
Underbrush, tobacco leaf and raisin aromas lead the way on this structured wine. The smooth palate delivers black plum, prune, black pepper and exotic spice alongside velvety tannins and surprising freshness for the vintage. It closes on a licorice note.
Underbrush, tobacco leaf, leather, truffle and blackberry aromas take center stage along with whiffs of toast and fig. The palate shows black cherry, carob, bitter cocoa, white pepper and sage alongside bracing tannins that leave a drying finish.
Underbrush, tobacco, black cherry and grilled herb aromas waft from the glass of this dense wine. The warm palate offers prune marinated in spirits, raisin, black pepper and mocha alongside bracing tannins that leave a drying finish.
Underbrush, tobacco, dark cherry, licorice and grilled herb are just some of the aromas offered by this structured wine. The palate delivers mature black cherry, black pepper, sage and licorice alongside tongue-coating tannins that need time to soften. It hails from a top vineyard site and is an impressive effort from this hot, dry vintage. Drink 2017–2024.
Underbrush, tobacco, mint and ripe dark-skinned berry aromas slowly take shape in the glass. The powerfully structured, monolithic palate offers raisin, cinnamon, licorice and clove alongside a backbone of firm velvety tannins. You'll notice the heat of alcohol on the finish but the rich flavors still hold their own.
Underbrush, tobacco, new leather, crushed herb and a whiff of mature plum lead the way. The juicy full-bodied palate is still young and taut, evoking ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice, clove and a hint of coffee. A backbone of youthfully austere fine-grained tannins and bright acidity gives it an age-worthy structure and balance. Drink 2020–2032.
Underbrush, truffle and eucalyptus aromas take the lead. The full-bodied, no-frills palate shows spiced cranberry, dried cherry, sage and a hint of cinnamon while assertive, close-grained tannins provide robust support.
Underbrush, truffle, baking spice, leather and tobacco aromas segue over to the smooth full-bodied palate along with raspberry jam, licorice and clove. Seasoned polished tannins provide elegance and structure. Drink through 2027.
Underbrush, truffle, crushed herb and ripe black-skinned fruit aromas slowly take shape along with a waft of new leather. The bold palate shows mature black cherry, licorice, clove and tobacco framed in big velvety tannins. This is already tempting but will be even better in a few years. Drink 2020–2027.
Underbrush, truffle, pressed violet, tilled soil, eucalyptus and mature berry aromas unfold on this structured, elegant red. It is still young and primary, offering red cherry, black raspberry, menthol, licorice and dried herb alongside youthfully austere tannins that need to unwind. This will benefit from another decade of cellaring.
Underbrush, truffle, ripe red berry, violet and pipe tobacco aromas emerge on this beautiful, structured red. The delicious, full-bodied palate shows ripe black cherry, fleshy raspberry, star anise, ground pepper and clove framed in ripe, velvety tannins. A generous, gorgeous wine.
Underbrush, truffle, stewed plum and toasted aromas come together in the glass. The packed, densely concentrated palate offers raisin, blackberry jam, pipe tobacco, baking spice and dark bitter chocolate framed in bracing, close-grained tannins that still need to unwind. You'll also notice the warmth of alcohol on the finish. Give this a few more years to let the tannins loosen up. Drink 2018 through 2026.
Underbrush, violet, berry, tilled soil and espresso aromas come together in the glass. The medium-bodied palate doles out blackberry, wild cherry, white pepper and a vanilla note alongside fresh acidity and supple tannins.
Underbrush, violet, moist soil and spicy blackberry aromas unfold in the glass of this refined, full-bodied wine. The delicious palate offers crushed dark cherry, raspberry, white pepper and clove alongside supple tannins. It ends on a mocha note. Drink through 2018.
Underbrush, violet, wild berry, menthol and sweet pipe tobacco aromas lead the way on this vibrant wine. The sleek palate doles out juicy wild cherries, baking spices and crushed herbs, while fresh acidity and a network of polished tannins provide backup. Drink 2016–2025.
Underbrush, violet, woodland berry and Mediterranean herb aromas lead the nose of this savory wine. The firm palate delivers ripe wild cherry, black currant, mint and orange peel alongside polished tannins. A balsamic note accents the finish. Enjoy through 2017.
Underbrush, wild berry and Mediterranean brush are some of the aromas that lift out of the glass. The firm chewy palate offers mature black cherry, licorice, black pepper and a hint of coffee bean framed in tightly knit fine-grained tannins. Drink 2019–2027.
Underbrush, wild berry, dark culinary spice, chopped herb and tilled earth are just some of the aromas you'll discover on this gorgeous wine. Impeccably balanced and loaded with finesse, the palate delivers wild raspberry, red cherry, clove, ground white pepper and licorice while radiant acidity and youthfully austere noble tannins provide structure. It already boasts impressive depth but it still needs to fully develop. A gorgeous wine. Drink 2025–2043.
Underbrush, woodland berry, pressed rose, tobacco leaf, savory herb and menthol aromas mingle in the glass. The palate delivers raw red cherry, anise, white pepper and a note of grilled sage alongside tightly knit tannins and brisk acidity.
Undergrowth, truffle, black-skinned berry and exotic spice aromas meld with balsamic notes. Rounded and chewy, the palate doles out fleshy black cherry, blackberry extract, cinnamon, licorice and chopped mint flavors, enveloped in velvety tannins. A hint of carob closes the finish. Drink through 2024.
Underipe nectarine, lemon pith and a touch of freshly dried grass start off the bouquet of this Chardonnay. The medium-weight palate transitions into ripe flavors of melon and pear flesh that carry through to the slightly flabby finish.
Underneath the austere exterior, there's a fruity character, with layers of citrus, kiwi and white peach flavors, along with the richness from having been aged in wood. Cellar this taut, minerally and structured wine for 2–3 years.
Underneath the oak is a modest, crisp Pinot Noir, dry and appealing in raspberry, cherry, cola and mushroom flavors. The oak is a little heavy-handed, though, making the wine feel heavy and finish sweet.
Underripe and slender, this wine's vegetal flavors appear alongside its blackberry note. Although it's dry and balanced, with firm Howell Mountain tannins, it implies richness but doesn't really deliver. The thinness allows the high alcohol to become prominent, making the wine feel hot.
Underripe aromas of bell pepper and scallion correctly announce a shearing, high-acid palate. Salty, tart flavors of citrus fruits finish with pyrazine-driven green notes.
Underripe berry aromas are leathery and briny. This wine is bulky and chewy in feel, with herbal berry and rubbery flavors. A rustic finish with good mouthfeel delivers animal-like flavor notes.
Underripe black currant and elderberry aromas mix with campfire, cedar and roasted beef on the nose of this wine. Black cherry and crushed pencils show on the palate, which is framed by impressive tannins and a chalky mouthfeel.
Underripe fruit seems more sour than anything. Some bitter, stemmy flavors creep into the finish.
Underripe lemons, yellow roses, cut apples and white lilies are bolstered by an intriguing, light cinnamon spice on the nose of this bottling. It's a bit like sipping on honeysuckle tea, as the palate is sizzling with acidity and packed with flavors of lemon oil, green apple skins and tangerine rinds.
Underripe melon meets butterscotch on the nose. The round palate shows banana-lemon yogurt with streaks of caramel, leading to a toasted vanilla finish.
Underripe peach, candied lemon and white flower aromas are lifted and bright on the nose. The palate is zesty and crisp, with ripe red-apple flavors leading to a slightly chalky finish.
Underripe raspberry, green-olive, dewy herbs, green-peppercorn and cardamom aromas show on the herbaceous nose. All of those elements are interwoven on the sip, where a core of fruit punch is laced by bay leaf, kalamata olive, bergamot and Christmas spice that persist deep into the finish.
Underripe red currant and green peppercorn show on the nose. The light-bodied palate brings similar flavors, with sweet vanilla being up the finish. Already showing some slight bricking in color, this Cab Franc is best enjoyed soon.
Underripe red plum and currant aromas are flecked with prickly fern notes on the nose. The light-bodied palate is marked by tart red berries and bitter green stems.
Underripe, slightly green orange peels mix with honeydew, grass and lime on this straightforward selection. The palate shows a touch of peach on the first part of the sip before delving into pungent grassiness that continues through the finish, all complemented by a wet stone frame.
Underripe, with green grass, gooseberry aromas and flavors. Acidity is high and mouthwatering, and there is a core of orange honey that will have its fans.
Understated and less ripe than many Australian Chardonnays, which makes for a nice change of pace when tasting, but also a leaner, more austere style dominated by citrus flavors. This atypical Aussie Chard could even be paired with shellfish.
Understated aromas of dried strawberry, black mission fig and raisin mark this wine's nose. Firm tannins bolster the medium- to full-bodied palate, and the acids veer sharp on the finish.
Understated aromas of pastis, fines herbes and portobello detail the core notes of blackberry and dark cherry. The wine has a slick, tender palate, with furry tannins surfacing on the finish.
Understated grapefruit and herbal aromas lead the way, framing peach and melon flavors. Round and soft on the palate, then turning a bit chalky on the finish. Drink now.
Understated on the nose, with hints of fresh strawberries and raspberries, this bone-dry rosé is quite penetrating on the palate, with a deep red-fruit flavor and a vein of crushed-stone minerality.
Understated plum, earth and spice aromas give an indication that this is not a casual, fruity Grenache. It is warm and supple, yet features enough dried-spice complexity to merit slow sipping and even savoring the lingering finish.
Understated scents of red plum and fresh pear mingle sweetly with brioche and sugar cookie crumb on this gorgeous sparkling blend of Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. Dry, yet concentrated with crisp raspberry and rose petal flavors, it has striking acidity and a deeply penetrating minerality.
Understated stone fruit and mineral flavors dominate the palate, with peach-pit and citrus notes on the finish. Round and resinous in the mouth; nose offers a white peppery, plasticy bite.
Undoubtedly one of the top wines from the Costières de Nîmes, this is 90% Mourvèdre, from the oldest vines on the estate, matured in oak for 18 months. It's dark and plummy, full bodied and richly textured, with hints of chocolate fudge and closet cedar. Drink now–2020.
Undoubtedly the greatest Chardonnay the winery has ever produced, this is as rich as any Chardonnay on the market. Notes of tropical fruit, green apple and crème brûlée mesh with vibrant minerality that's steely, chalky and tangy. Although it tastes of honey, the finish is completely dry. This might even develop earthy, nutty complexities as it ages.
Undulating with richness and flavor. There's a textural brilliance that stands out on this sumptuous Trockenbeerenauslese-style Riesling from the North Fork's Roman Roth. Gorgeously perfumed with roses, freesia, lanolin and honey, it's a complex, composed representative of a fine American dessert wine.
Undurraga's top Sauvignon hails from the premier terroir of Leyda. It smells clean and inviting, with an aromatic mix of talcum powder, lime, mango and scallion. The palate is very fresh and lively, with snappy citrus flavors that include grapefruit. Razor-clean on the finish.
Undurraga has never been know for sparkling wines, and this brut isn't going to help much. It smells okay, with applesauce and lemon-lime stirring intrigue. But the palate and feel are off. It's foamy in the mouth, with undefined white-fruit flavors. Not ready for prime time.
Unexpectedly aromatic in jasmine and rose, Parducci's True Grit is otherwise big with a coated mouthfeel of leather, amidst a wall of toned tannins.
Unexpectedly thick and mouthfilling, with generous peach aromas and flavors underscored by mustard greens and citrus. Clean and refreshing on the finish. Best Buy.
Unfiltered and broad shouldered, this is a fine expression of pure Merlot from the Walla Walla Valley. Though plenty ripe, the sweet fruit flavors have a pillowy elegance—the wine feels light but the flavors run deep.
Unfiltered and made in what the producer calls a traditional ancestral way, the wine is certainly intense and full of spice as well as fruit. The wine, with its tangy citrus and concentration, needs to age. Drink from 2018.
Unfiltered and unfined, this wine made from 60-year-old Baco Noir feels significantly fuller in body than the alcohol content belies. Ripe and concentrated on the palate with hints of garrigue and Graham cracker crumbs, it finishes with a whisper of green on a softly bitter finish.
Unfiltered, this is an invitingly earthy wine, marked by truffle and forest, with a generous concentration of black cherry that's impacted quite a bit by oak. Velvety smooth, it's substantial on the palate.
Unfined and unfiltered, this has a deep garnet color with a little smoky touch at the rim. The aromas resemble ripe cherries and cola, the flavors emphasize both fruit and savory components like sage and smoke and the feel is nicely dry. The way it holds back a bit on richness is fine for a change.
Unfined, unfiltered and fermented with native yeasts, this is a solid effort with medium concentration that expands with ample aeration. Blackberry and black-cherry fruit is matched to notes of cola and chocolate, with fresh acidity and a pleasing, textural mouthfeel.
Unfined, unfiltered, wood aged, this wine was created as a tribute to old-style Sancerre. With its intensity and definite wood aging character, it is certainly different. It retains the green fruit character of pure Sauvignon Blanc while offering a more oxidative richness.
Unfocused, and jumbled aromas of clove, mint, latex and gritty oak barely allow for any fruit to show through. This is clampy and acidic. Roasted oaky plum and berry flavors finish jagged, with roasted flavors.
Unfocused, somewhat compromised aromas of green banana and papaya are a bit soapy. This is acceptable but coarse in feel. Peppery green-fruit flavors echo in milder fashion on the finish.
Unforthcoming on the nose, it offers mild aromas of red fruits and flowers. Soft and fluid in feel, the palate is imbued with flavors of raspberries and dried herbs. It finishes with a loose, open-knit texture.
Unfortunately only available in Bermuda, this wonderful bottling shows salted brambleberries, crushed violets, asphalt, rosemary and pinpointed florality on the fresh yet concentrated nose. The palate is zesty and darkly focused, with elderberries, stewed plums, thyme and Earl Grey tea. It's quite a complex effort.
Unfortunately this wine just hangs on the cusp of quality. The nose is somewhat muddy and grassy. Plummy fruit with tangy acids carry the unrefined palate. Cola nut is noticeable on the dry finish. The effort seems to be there, but the result is not stellar.
Unfortunately underripe, with an asparagus and pepper taste to the coffee and currants. Lacks fruity richness.
Ungainly, with stiff, puckery tannins giving a hard astringency, and unintegrated oak sticking out. Somewhere inbetween are modest cherry, anise and herb flavors. Pretty good, but not likely to go anywhere, so drink now.
Union Wine Company, which now owns Amity, makes a number of good-value, well-structured Pinots. Add this one to the list. Aged 11 months in 15% new French oak, it's pleasingly fruity (raspberry and cherry) but doesn't stop there. The touch of barrel-aging adds coffee and caramel highlights.
Unique and exotic, this Pinot Gris is crisp and textural, with the edges rounded out as if gently sanded by the contours of the concrete egg fermenter. A complex mix of cucumber, citrus, green herb, apple, pear and lemon verbena flavors, it's got tremendous grip, depth, balance and weight. Drink now through 2020.
Unique aromas of chamomile, dried orange peel, hay and smoked chicken show on the nose of this bottling. The palate is also a wash of intrigue, with smoked lemon peels, roasting chicken, oregano and other dried herbs.
Unique aromas of lime blossoms, flowering herbs and a tiny bit of jalapeño combine for a fascinating nose on this winery's entry-level offering. There is a slightly bell pepper element on the palate, but it's quite tasty alongside the ripe pears and other familiar flavors.
Unique for Argentina is this type of blend, which is 75% Tempranillo and 25% Malbec. The nose on this mature wine is heady, earthy and rooty in nature, with raisiny richness lurking in the background. On the palate, it's full and gritty, with grabby tannins. Flavors of earthy, baked berries and tomato sauce finish short, an inidication that this is ready to drink now.
Unique in style and sourced—these are the oldest Pinot Gris vines in the country—this young, yeasty, textural wine will surely continue to improve in the bottle. Give it a lot of breathing time, and complex layers of rock and fruit unfold. Jicama, cucumber, daikon radish...You get the idea. It tastes as clean and fresh as a mountain spring.
Unique tarry and crushed-gravel notes show on the nose of this bottling by veteran Adam Tolmach, giving nuance to the red cherry and raw beef aromas. A juicy acidity opens the palate up to flavors of peppercorn, red rose petals, hibiscus, red cherry and a touch of smoke.
Uniquely sea-salty aromas of kelp mesh with sharp Italian herbs and heavily spiced cherry on the nose of this wine from a vineyard at the western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills. Flavors range from raspberry and tart cranberry to clove, cardamom and espresso.
Unless you just love oak, this one is way too woody. Buttered toast, creamed corn and popcorn aromas are seconded on the palate by thick, cloying buttery flavors and very little fruit. Not appealing.
Unless you knew that this was Dominus and had tasted older vintages, you might not be impressed. In its youth the wine is tannic and dry and linear. However, it is Dominus and it does need cellaring. Right now it shows blackberry, black currant, cedar and baker's chocolate flavors. Will slowly open and reach maturity after 2011, and could easily develop for far longer.
Unlike 1999, this year half of the wine was fermented in stainless steel. Stylish and truly “Burgundian” character, with bright flavors of citrus and stone, buoyant on lively acids, unencumbered by heavy oak. Young and seductive, with a finishing kiss of toast and butter.
Unlike any other Merlots in the region, this fascinating low-alcohol tribute to a northern Italian style shows oregano, thyme, parsley, rainbow peppercorns, dried purple flowers and a seductive hint of green pepper on the elegantly layered nose. The flavors reflects the nuanced nose, with crushed peppers, just-ripe blackberry, iodine and a touch of greenness.
Unlike many '05 Rhônes, this is made in a soft, silky, approachable style, marrying brandied cherries with cinnamon and clove and supple tannins. Shows a touch of warmth on the finish. Drink now-2018.
Unlike many an Australian Shiraz, this one sees only French oak barrels for aging. The result is a dense, blueberry-filled wine, supported by hints of toast and espresso. It's full-bodied but not tiring to drink, thanks to an enlivening burst of black pepper on the finish. Best Buy. —J.C.
Unlike many of the kabinetts from 2006, this is a true kabinett-style wine, with modest levels of alcohol and sugar balanced by crisp acids. Mineral-diesel notes accent apple and mint flavors, and there's a hint of honey as well. Finishes fresh, if just a bit short.
Unlike many vintages of Coudoulet, this one is medium-bodied and fruit-forward, offering hints of cherries, mulberries and wild Provençal herbs. Those garrigue notes linger on the softly dusty finish. Drink now–2023.
Unlike many Zinfandel rosés, this one is dry. A bright pink color, aromas like canteloupe and flavors like watermelon and fresh grapes add up to a light-tasting but rather full-bodied and soft-textured wine.
Unlike Marisco's 2015 The Ned Late Harvest, this is a botrytis-affected wine, featuring a darker color and more complex flavors. The aromas suggest Earl Grey tea and honey; the flavors resemble caramel-drizzled orange segments. A slightly bitter citrus-pith note marks the finish, providing balance.
Unlike most Australian Rieslings, this one is a bit sweet (off dry, really). Hints of honey and bergamot bring complexity to the ripe, peachy flavors of this muscular wine, finishing with a dusty, tactile sensation. Drink now-2025.
Unlike most Costières de Nîmes, this is 95% Grenache, giving it a round, expansive mouthfeel and soft tannins. Warm baking spices complement black cherry fruit. Drink now–2015.
Unlike most Dolcettos, this is laid back; it doesn't announce itself with a great blast of fruit. Instead it offers a package of spices and blackberry jam throughout the palate. No great intensity here but there is an easy elegance to the wine, culminating in a solid, medium finish.
Unlike so many Condrieus, this is a wine that needs to be aged. From a parcel of land in the south end of the Condrieu appellation, this vintage is currently dominated by new wood. But under that, there is elegant, spicy fruit with delicious flavors of ripe pears and peaches. Just a hint of acidity gives it structure and considerable potential for aging.
Unlike some of the old, wood-aged Moscatels, this gold colored wine has kept so much freshness and bright acidity to contrast the honeyed intensity and yellow fruit flavors. It is sweet, but not cloying because it is kept crisp by a touch of citrus that cuts through the honey. Drink now.
Unlike some other Wachau producers, Knoll restrains the alcohol even in the ripest wines. That means a wine like this has great freshness to go with the rich fruit. The balance is the thing – fresh citrus, ripe pears and spice and a fine depth of flavor. The acidity comes bursting through the finish.
Unlike the Colheita version, this can sustain high alcohol easily. That's because the black fruit is rich enough, there is a fine freshness from juicy acidity and the tannins are well managed. This is a wine to age and drink from 2017.
Unlike the heavily oaked Cuvée Crescendo produced from the same vineyard in 2005, this wine relies much more on ripe black fruits and open tannins. Certainly it has power, a broad and opulent character, the berry fruits jammy in their sweetness. Age 2–3 years.
Unlike the Primo cuvée from this estate, which is mainly Cabernet Franc, this is almost entirely Merlot. That makes for a rich wine with ripe tannins, red berry fruit and a complex structure. All this points to aging further, so drink from 2020.
Unlike the regular Clavidor, this old-vines wine glistens and slides across the nose and palate with nary a whiff of wood. It smells of apples and melon, and the flavors go straight to lemon curd, green apple and kiwi. Fairly long and cleansing on the finish, with a nice mouthfeel. Drink now.
Unmistakably a Kiwi Pinot Noir, with notes of Dr. Pepper, ripe bramble fruit, oaky spices and tree bark, it loses it's way a little on the palate, lacking the juicy fruit to stand up to all the oak.
Unmistakably Riesling from the petrol notes that dominates. The winemaker calls it off-dry, but it tastes dry in citrus, white flower and mineral notes, probably due  to the high acidity. Refreshingly low in alcohol.
Unmistakably Sauvignon Blanc, it carries notes of herbs, citrus and guava. It's lightly spritzy and drinks dry with mouthwatering citrus flavors. Try it with shellfish.
Unmistakably Zinfandel, and Dry Creek at that, with its robust texture, firm tannins and briary, brambly flavors of wild summer berries, chocolate-covered raisins, red licorice and cola, liberally spiced with black pepper. It's a big, voluptuous wine that never loses its sense of balance and harmony. Drink now.
Unoaked Chardonnays can be fairly neutral, but this one is anything but. Creamy and textural, it's laced with mixed flavors of grapefruit, gooseberry, lime and lemon zest. Delicious on its own, or pair it with gently seasoned seafood or poultry.
Unoaked Pinot Noir from Corsica, showing ripe berry flavors, fresh acidity and only light tannins. It's what it says on the label: for casual drinking.
Unoaked, and instead fermented for 10 months in both stainless steel and concrete egg, this white remains light-bodied and crisp, touched by aromas of honeysuckle and refreshing flavors of pear and quince.
Unripe and green, with acidic gooseberry, menthol and green peppercorn aromas and flavors.
Unripe green notes of leaves detract from this wine's enjoyment. It's crisp in acidity, with some pure Meyer lemon, lime and fig flavors, but that vegetal note is bothersome.
Unripe vegetal flavors mar this Zinfandel. There's an asparagus note to the blackberries that interferes with your enjoyment.
Unripe, with green peppercorn, tobacco and dried sage flavors, showing only a slender note of blackberries. Good and dry, but lacks richness. Drink now.
Unripe, with strong lemongrass, green pea and feline spray flavors accompanying more pleasant lemons and limes. Acidity is strong, and the wine is totally dry.
Unripe, with wintergreen and pepper aromas and flavors, and sharp acidity. Turns a little more generous with airing, but it's overpriced for what you get.
Unsteady stone-fruit aromas set up a chunky, cidery palate. Flavors of tropical fruits are short and turn toward grassy lime and scallion on the finish. As Torrontés goes, this is decently enjoyable.
Untamed and herbal on the bouquet, this has a coconutty sweetness that's offset by scratchy berry and grassy notes. It feels firm, with high acidity and tight tannins; the herbal flavors mingle with notes of sweet cassis and baked berry.
Untamed plum and cherry aromas are a bit strained. This everyday Garnacha is fresh and fruity in feel, with good but standard plum and cherry flavors. An edgy grating finish with a spot of oak character wraps this up.
Untamed, foxy aromas of wild berry, bramble bush and olive come in front of a palate with nails for tannins. This tastes highly herbal or mildly green, depending on how you look at it. A raw, hot finish renders this low on charm.
Until now I've found this winery's offerings to be underwhelming, but this small-production blend is a surprising winner. Hard spice, juniper, olive and compact berry aromas lead to a lifted palate with bright plum, berry, pepper and spice flavors. On the finish, it's stacked with juicy acidity and herbal berry leftovers. 200 cases made.
Until now, Tapiz has been a value-driven brand with no wine priced above $20. This outstanding Malbec shows that they've been holding something back. Black Tears is ripe and handsome, with almost everything in its perfect place. It's a hard-driving wine with blackberry, vanilla and coconut aromas and flavors in front of a chewy, tannin-rich finish with the mildest note of raisin. Drink this unbridled stud now through 2017.
Until this four-man group effort produces something that's less than outstanding, LTU will rank as a go-to producer of excellent full-bodied Malbec. This vintage is ripe on the nose, then saturated yet proportionally balanced on the palate. Plum, wild berry, roasted notes, licorice and herbal flavors finish big and ready. This doesn't need much time in bottle; drink now through 2016.
Unusual aromas of blue fruits are matched against cardamom and cumin scents. The palate is blocky yet dominated by acidity, while flavors of plum, black currant and woodspice are exotic. A hard finish shows hickory and barrel flavors along with wiry acidity.
Unusual aromas of cardamom and cinnamon accent blueberry and plum scents. In the mouth, this is robust and voluminous but mild in terms of tannins and structure. Earthy, stewy plum and blackberry flavors finish charred, with herbal notes and heat.
Unusual aromas of cocoa and green tea mochi lead to a creamy smooth palate. The oak plays a primary role.
Unusual aromas of creamed corn and exotic notes are too unfamiliar to register properly. It's thick but not entirely cloying, with powdered sugar and dried mango flavors. Weird stuff that probably won't find too many takers.
Unusual aromas of freshly rubbed herb, peppery spice, plum and pencil eraser lead to a supple full-feeling palate with a coffee-filled finish that lingers. It has nuances that hold the attention.
Unusual aromas of mustard, rubbing alcohol, white flowers and lychee are all over the map and unconvincing. This is mostly Viura, and it feels chunky and a bit awkward while tasting cidery and citrusy.
Unusual aromas of pine needle, cough drop and herbal berries set the stage for a juicy, tight palate with raspberry, red plum and herbal flavors. Medium in length and intensity, with a smooth finish that leaves a solid, generally positive lasting impression.
Unusual aromas of singe and tar are interspersed with Chinese tea and vanilla while flavors in the mouth turn a bit soupy. Medium-bodied with some grippy tannins and a short finish. Drink now.
Unusual aromas of wet copper penny, rubbed sage and black cherry are followed by tart cherry and cranberry flavors. The aromas and palate seem disconnected.
Unusual aromatics conjure ruby red grapefruit, Douglas fir needles, green tea and a touch of cola. The site, which is rather cool, fills in the main palate with grapes offering sleek subtle flavors of mountain berry.
Unusual but enticing, it opens with aromas of smoke, mineral and stone fruit. The savory palate offers yellow peach, golden apple and Bartlett pear accented with notes of clove, nut and nutmeg. It's linear and well-balanced. George Wines, Zancanella.
Unusual but intense aromas suggesting medicinal herb, rose and camphor lift from the glass along with a slightly chemical note and a whiff of pine. The rather evolved but solid palate offers cherry cola, cinnamon and spiced cranberry framed in robust tannins. It surprisingly accessible but will age for several years or more. Drink through 2023.
Unusual but not unpleasant aromas of cinnamon and coffee cake lead to a saturated palate with rugged tannins. Flavors of fig paste, chocolate and baking spices confirm the wine's ripeness, while blackened flavors and rock-hard tannins drive the finish.
Unusual exotic-leaning aromas of lavender, violet, cardamom and anise are intriguing. In the mouth, this has textural issues, namely it's abrupt and tannic. Flavors of mild chocolate, carob and blueberry are uncommon for Ribera del Duero.
Unusual for a 2003 Cab to be held back this long before release. Maybe they thought the tannins were too strong. They're fully resolved now, but the fruit has faded, leaving behind mild flavors of dried cherries, currants and herbs that finish very dry. It's an elegant wine, rather than a voluptuous one.
Unusual for a Bordeaux, this is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It has plenty of tannins, although they are embedded in the pure black-currant fruits and the acidity. It shows the gentle side of Comtesse—fruit and freshness—although with spice and a touch of wood that are likely to balance soon. The wine will develop well over the next few years. Drink from 2022.
Unusual for a brut style, this wine has a pale salmon color. It tastes fresh, dry and appetizing. Light cherry and peach notes are lifted by a crisp texture and fine effervescence.
Unusual for Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Brunel's white is 80% Roussanne (the other 20% is Grenache Blanc). It's a lush, fruit-forward style, with ripe pineapple and peach elements that nonetheless show surprising lift and freshness on the long finish. Drink now.
Unusual for Oz, in that the primary variety in the blend is Cabernet Franc (74%), with lesser amounts of Merlot (15%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (11%). The result is a fragrant, slightly herbal wine with plenty of red cherry fruit balanced out by vanilla and chocolate notes. It's lighter in body than most Ozzie Cabs, with silky tannins on the finish. Drink now–2012. Imported by Margaret River Wines, LLC.
Unusual for Vinho Verde, this wine was aged in wood for nine months, resulting in a rich, full-bodied character. It's ripe, full of yellow fruits and crisp pear flavors, shot through with lemon acidity. What it potentially lacks in freshness it makes up for in intensity and depth of flavor. Drink from 2016.
Unusual hints of mango hint at very ripe fruit. The slender palate counters this aromatic abundance with tenderly fresh notes of lemon zest and wood sorrel. The result is both delicious and refreshing.
Unusual in that this cava hails from the Ribera del Duero region, where red wines are 99.9% of the show. For a no-dosage nature, it's properly crisp and dry, almost like a liquid version of a soda cracker. There are some holes in the fabric but overall it's citrusy, tight and only mildly bitter on the finish.
Unusual nectarine and tangerine flavors are accented by some ginger, but make no mistake—there's still lots of wood-derived cream and butter here, particularly on the nose and on the finish.
Unusual notes of lemongrass and pine lend a curious twist to crisp apple, lime and honey tones in this deeply mineral auslese. Piercing acidity shocks the midpalate.
Unusual notes suggest cherry, allspice and hickory smoke. It's full bodied with cherry flavors and firm tannins that lead to a mesquite-filled finish.
Unusual rose petal perfume hovers above the apple-scented nose. The palate is dry but textured and open, broad but fluid and poised. There is a seam of taut, bright and pure lemon acidity that frames everything neatly and which makes this totally appetizing and moreish in all its fruitfulness.
Unusual, a 7-year-old white from Provence that doesn't show signs of age. Maturity yes, with almonds rather than primary fruits, but this wine is developing like an old Riesling, hinting at petrol, while still preserving some fresh pineapple flavors.
Unusual, high-toned aromas of green herbs, fresh flowers and pomegranate lead to smooth cherry and orange-peel flavors with abundant floral notes throughout. It provides lots of easy-drinking pleasure, though the floral notes at times seem overpowering.
Unusually blended from all five Bordeaux varieties with Malbec dominating, this is a wonderfully, rich, complex wine. It shows jammy blackberry and plum flavors, with spice and cocoa overtones and firm, ripe tannins. The finish is dry and long. An impressive introductory wine from Trefethen, off the estate vineyard.
Unusually complex for a rosé, this medium- to full-bodied wine offers a mix of red berries and melon, hints of cinnamon and clove, richness reminiscent of white chocolate and even a tinge of mocha on the lengthy finish. Drink now–2018.
Unusually complex for a wine in this price range, marrying grilled peaches with hints of toasted hazelnut and bacon fat, and wrapped in a layer of cedary, vanilla-scented oak. Medium-bodied, with a long, subtly oaky finish.
Unusually dry and crisp, this gives up tangy green apple, kiwi and lemon flavors backed by electric acidity, rather light body and a touch of enervating astringency that's unusual in a white wine. Fresh oysters, please.
Unusually dry and lightly astringent, this medium-bodied wine adopts a Burgundy-style label and flavor profile, too. It tastes like toasted almonds and apple skin, and feels steely on the finish.
Unusually dry and tangy, this light-bodied wine smells like celery and herbs, and tastes very lean and straightforward.
Unusually exotic and strange on the bouquet, with blueberry, lemon peel and warm mulch aromas. The palate has size and pretty good feel, with tangy blue-fruit flavors, exotic spice notes and zip. Finishes with floral notes and lightness.
Unusually for a Champagne from the Montagne de Reims, better known for its Pinot Noir, this is a 100% Chardonnay. It is ripe and fruity—a warm wine with apricot and spice as well as crisper citrus. Drink this smooth wine now.
Unusually for the Médoc, this wine has a significant percentage (14.5%) of Cabernet Franc as well as 12.5% Petit Verdot. These two grapes give the wine its perfume and its dark color. They add to the rich tannins and juicy black currants that pack the wine. Drink this fine wine from 2020.
Unusually fragrant, even sharp-edged for a sparkling wine, this has aggressive, Sauvignon-like aromas of thistle, grapefruit and thyme, and those strong flavors carry through on the palate. Nonetheless, it is dry and zesty and clean. If you like these sorts of herbaceous flavors in a sparkler, this one's for you.
Unusually fruity for a Pinot Gris, this bursts with quince, hay and lanolin aromas that give way to an intense palate with good weight. While slightly astringent, the mouthwatering finish will provide a good foil for fried calamari.
Unusually full-bodied and rich for a 2014, this is a big, muscular wine. The superripe plummy fruit is wrapped in a luxurious coat of chocolate-vanilla oak, yet finishes with drive to match its dusty tannins. Drink now–2025.
Unusually graceful and elegant despite full body and dense tannins, this wine has lush, rich fruit flavors like blackberry compote, plus clove and black pepper accents. It's an outstanding example of how attractive the variety can be, and no surprise considering its long history in Mendocino County.
Unusually lean and precise for a 2006, this shows some very floral, perfumed notes on the nose, and then delivers crisp green apple and underripe melon flavors.
Unusually restrained for the varietal, this appetizing and firmly textured wine has moderate fruit and clove flavors, great balance and a good snap of tannin in the mouthfeel. Its sense of moderation will make it consistently likeable, bottle after bottle.
Unusually set in a Burgundy-shape bottle rather than the normal Bordeaux bottle, this low-sulfur wine comes from a biodynamic vineyard. It is ripe with yellow fruits and rich acidity. It has a rounded character, with an edge of minerality and light spice. This delicious wine is ready to drink.
Unusually supple for Fromm, but still featuring a heavy overlay of toasty, cedary oak. If you don't mind that in your Pinot, you may like this even more, because it does offer ripe cherry-berry flavors underneath. Drink over the near term.
Unusually toned down on the nose for Sauvignon Blanc, the palate offers some slight glimpses of fresh citrus and intimations of distant passion fruit. In the face of the challenging 2014 vintage, this is ultraclean and very refreshing: a zippy, light-bodied summer wine.
Unusually, this premier cru vineyard produces both red and white wines, both of which are made by this domaine. The wine is soft, rounded and with a ripe creamy character. It has plenty of crisp apple and rich pear flavors along with enough acidity to keep it bright and tangy. Drink from 2018.
Unusually, Tibouren (a red grape more often found further east near Nice) forms part of the blend of this wine along with white Clairette. The mix gives a spicy, very perfumed wine that has ripe apricot and raspberry fruits. A strong peppery undertow suggests this is more of a food wine.
Up-front fruitiness of green and yellow pear lead to a simple, citrus-fresh palate with lots of zing. A simple, savory pleasure with lingering pepperiness.
Up front, this barrel-aged Verdejo is showing aromas of nut skins, vanilla, saline, melon and papaya. But in the mouth, it's creamy, such that it feels cloying and candied. Flavors of sugary melon and corn finish with little pulse.
Up front, this smells smoky and woody, although in due time earthy berry aromas emerge. This feels ripe and full in body; flavors of black cherry, cassis, fig and chocolate end with heady, toasty heat and a rich sense of extraction. Drink through 2018.
Up front, this wine is welcoming, with friendly cantaloupe and minerally aromas. However, it has a coarse, spritzy mouthfeel, with sour citrus flavors followed by a soda-like finish.
Up the slope above the Grand Cru of Le Montrachet, this vineyard once grew hemp (hence the name, cheneve). This poised wine is both stylish and rich, with good acidity allied to ripe apple and citrus fruits, cut through the mineral texture and promise a generous wine as it ages. Drink from 2020.
Up there in the Chalone hills they have a lot of limestone, and you can taste the flint and chalk in this wine even through the lavish tropical fruit and spice. It's a really interesting Chardonnay that's quite fancy and elegantly structured, and it will hold for a good six years.
Updraft is two thirds Sauvignon Blanc and one third Semillon, barrel-fermented. Full-bodied and fleshy, it's bursting with ripe yellow fruits, along with apricot and papaya. On the tropical edge, but focused and lightly toasty, as you'd find in a Bordeaux.
Upfront and generous, this is a bright and food-friendly Barbera d'Alba. What it lacks in overall complexity and aromatic intensity, it makes up for in terms of freshness and fruity simplicity. You'll love the dense concentration and fresh cherry flavors.
Upfront and immediate fragrances of sweet honey and acacia flower make this extremely aromatic.   The wine is bursting with sweet fruit freshness, creamy foam and sweet peach pie. It's also one of the best priced sparklers we've seen this year.
Upfront aromas of buttered dinner rolls—which take on a caramel quality with long sniff—contrast nicely with lime edges. The wine is expansive on the palate, but subtle in flavorings, with toasted coconut, balanced acidity and, on the finish, toasted marcona almonds.
Upfront aromas of cocoa, vanilla, sawdust and savory herb are followed by flavors of plum, cherry and barrel spice. The oak and fruit play equal roles, with the flavors a bit dialed back.
Upfront aromas of savory herbs and pressed apple lend an earthy feel to this medium-sweet wine. It opens gradually to reveal a pretty perfume of jasmine and lavender that penetrates long on the palate. It's juicy with sweet white-grapefruit flavor, and finishes tight with zesty lime and lemon astringency.
Upfront aromas of smoke and spring ramps subside to reveal delicate apple blossom notes on this honeyed, medium-sweet wine. Ripe, rich yellow peach and cantaloupe flavors flood the palate, yet wrap up remarkably dry with a lingering finish that's intense with minerality. It's gorgeously styled, yet elegant and dainty.
Upfront citrus, tropical fruit, peach and apple flavors mark this rich Chardonnay, plus notes of buttered toast and caramel. The opulence is balanced by crisp acidity and stony minerality.
Upfront earthy aromas of black olive render this Malbec's berry notes as secondary. This feels chunky, even a bit flabby. Flavors of black fruits and peppery spice finish with a note of oaky mint and drying tannins. Drink now through 2018.
Upfront floral aromas—think honeysuckle, orange blossom and a touch of jasmine—are pretty and attractive, with supporting fruit tones of pink apple and firm peach. The pleasantly crisp mouthfeel offers medium acidity and a lingering sweet-spice flavor on the close. Drink now.
Upfront fruit aromas present the bouquet much like a fruit salad, with forward scents of guava, mango, banana and citrus supremes. The palate is similarly fruited, with ample acidity to keep the ripe fruit flavors in check. It's a direct, fruit-forward drink.
Upfront jalapeño, white pepper and freshly sliced bell pepper aromas lead the nose of this wine. It's soft in texture and an intriguing example of the variety.
Upfront scents of blackberry and plum lead the nose of this wine, while denser notes of muddled berries, chocolate raspberry and tree bark unfold on the medium-weight palate. Hints of earth and pepper lend depth to the finish. Drink now.
Upfront, ripe pear fruit plays on nose and palate. These fruit notes are boosted by slight residual sweetness that makes this wine off dry, counterbalanced by a pleasantly bitter pith note. Enjoy this with ripe, runny cheese for a successful combination.
Uplifting aromatics of blackberry soda and purple flowers provide a nose that could be sniffed all day, hinting at a fun but elegant GSM. The flavors fall in line, with cola, Bing cherries and rose water combining for a light, floral palate, yet with green tea tannins and tartness to keep it grounded.
Uplifting, light and fresh peach aromas mix with ruby-red grapefruit spritzer and tiny flashes of honey on this energetic wine by the San Luis Obispo-based producer. The palate shows fresh nectarine, apple blossoms and lots of white flowers, and would make a perfect compliment to spicy food.
Upon first pour, this only shows some earthy hints of evolution. With air, the aromas awaken and lovely notes hayflower notes emerge. The palate is laced with elderberry and dried oak leaf flavors and framed by smooth tannins. Just a little bottle age has given this an almost timeless elegance, proving a wine doesn't need power to shine, just depth. Drink now–2025.
Upon first sniff, this could be a Chilean red; but then the warm fruity entry—complete with hints of crushed flower and fresh herb—suggests something else entirely. The wine does not hold together well, turning sour and herbal through the back of the palate.
Upon opening, it's compact and tangy, with deep fruit flavors of raspberry, red plum and pie cherry. There is a lot of life to this wine, with fresh and clean fruit flavors. It needs time to develop in the bottle. A blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 33% Merlot.
Upon opening, this intense, fragrant wine seems European in style, with Italian-like nuances of leather, fungus and tobacco. The enticing whiffs give way to a full-flavored palate that offers notes of mixed red fruits, while the finish loses some focus.
Upon opening, this smells oaky and lemony, although airing brings it around. Fresh and mildly astringent on the palate, this tastes oaky and briny at first, then more complex, deep and toasty as it spreads out. Licorice, herb and background berry flavors are woody and still somewhat fiery on the finish. Drink 2015 through 2025.
Upon opening, this wine showed some funky low tones that blew off after a while to reveal an unusual mix of aromas, including cotton candy, stewed prunes and fresh nuts. The light-to-medium-bodied palate is more classic, with razor-like acidity and raspberry and cherry flavors. Delicious cherry-berry finish. Try with beef stew. Drink now.
Upon pouring, there's a slight haze of CO2 visible in the glass—but that's a good thing in this case, because the unreleased fermentation gasses help enliven the otherwise fat mouthfeel. With aromas of pears and fresh parsley and flavors of pears and pineapple, it's pretty standard stuff, but executed well.
Upscale and pedigreed, but not showing well now. Too tannic, with an astringent lockdown that accentuates the acidity. Underneath are fine black cherry, cola, pepper and oak flavors. The suggestion is ageability, but the future of this wine is unpredictable no matter what anyone says.
Uriah is Spring Valley's Right Bank-style blend, with Merlot and Cabernet Franc sharing the lead. It's lively and fine-tuned, with a lovely mix of red fruits, spices, and fresh acidity. It spent 21 months in 65% new French oak, to good effect.
Ursonia is a well-aged expression of the hearty Montepulciano grape, with juicy notes of blackberry, cherry and currant. There are hints of spice, smoke and milk chocolate; and the wine is plush, rich and velvety on the close.
Used espresso grounds and soft nutmeg aromas mingle with sweet red berry and plum fruit notes. The mouth is full and creamy with dusty tannins and a juicy red fruit core. Straightforward but enjoyable and easy to drink.
User-friendly Chard, all toasty-spicy apples, and peaches and cream. There's almond-skin bitterness in the aftertaste that sort of sets your teeth on edge, but food will take care of that. —S.H.
Using a blend of grapes sourced from old vines, this is powerful, dense and very concentrated. At the same time, an elegance lightens the wine's weight and integrates all of its elements. This serious, structured offering should be aged for 4–5 years.
Using dry-farmed grapes, Ryan Pease crafts a heavily structured wine with aromas of black gravel, mocha and blueberries reduced in a vanilla vinaigrette. The sticky tannins will need some time to unravel, but the flavors of cooked cherries, blackberries and coffee paste are promising. Drink 2018–2024.
Using fruit mostly from the Bassi Ranch property he recently acquired, Mike Sinor delivers a bright, minerally wine, with aromas of scratched grapefruit skin, orange and peach juice, burned lemons, sea salt, ripe apples and nectarines and fresh-cut herbs. Flavors of salty, lime-juice nectarines emerge once sipped, with hints of butter and white flowers.
Using fruit sourced from 94-year-old vines, this is a powerful and concentrated wine. It has a serious, complex mix of fruit and tannin, with notes of leather and spice that lend power and density. Age this for at least another year.
Using fruit sourced from a 20-acre vineyard in Castillon, this is dominated by Merlot, with a touch of perfumed Cabernet Franc. It has an age-worthy structure, showing good balance, firm tannins and ripe fruit.
Using fruit sourced from a small appellation to the west of Cahors and east of Bergerac, this blend of Merlot and Malbec shows a light, approachable character. It's full of red berry fruit, with sweet tannins and juicy acids on the finish.
Using fruit sourced from old vines, this firm, tannic and concentrated wine has a fine balance between the dense texture and bright black-plum and berry flavors. Given its tannic structure, it needs to age, although it would be a great accompaniment to a stew if consumed now.
Using fruit sourced from old vines, this is concentrated, with some richness and weight. Ripe red-cherry fruit mingles with balanced, dry tannins.
Using fruit sourced from old vines, Umani Ronchi flexes its creative muscle with this beautiful white wine. It is fermented in stainless steel and cement for 10 months, an elaborate process that adds softness and creaminess to the finish. It also renders enduring aromas of apricot and vanilla custard.
Using fruit sourced from old, low-yielding vines, this is black in color and in taste, with ripe black-plum and licorice flavors that show toasty wood influence. Although the wine's name translates to “pure pleasure,” the true pleasure will be revealed in five years when it will become opulent and powerful.
Using fruit sourced from vineyards close to Cahors, this is a rich, soft, tropical-fruit-flavored wine that shows how the Mediterranean influence reaches this inland area. It is rich, with notes of apricot, green plum and mango. Ready to drink.
Using fruit sourced from vineyards on an eastward extension of the ridge of Castillon and Saint-Emilion in Bordeaux, this finely structured wine shows a judicious amount of oak influence, which supports the ripe blackberry flavor. It's a complex, spicy effort, and its fruit is finely layered with acidity and toast.
Using fruit that was sourced from a 12-acre property planted to Merlot, this wine is laden with wood. A burnt edge covers what will inevitably be attractive, ripe plum fruit. It has acidity on the finish, and its juicy element promises good things in 2–3 years.
Using fruit that was sourced from a five-acre parcel of old vines, the black plum fruit coddles the tannins. It shows the structure and ripeness of the vintage.
Using fruit that was sourced from the vineyards of Feudo Arancio near the town of Sambuca in southern Sicily, this pretty white wine offers bright aromas of lemon, green apple and cut grass. A long list of seafood menu items would pair with this Grillo.
Using grapes from all three estate vineyards, this slightly sweet (2.5% residual sugar) Riesling is textural and complex. Flavors of fruit skin and rind dominate, notably grapefruit and peach pit.
Using grapes from both sides of the Columbia, winemaker Jonathan Oberlander has crafted a flavorful and beautifully balanced wine that mingles quince, lime, citrus rind and a hint of herb. All stainless and no malolactic fermentation—just pure fruit and clean acids.
Using grapes from the Taittinger brand's first vineyard at Château de la Marquetterie, this wine is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay aged partially in wood. It is rich and beautifully structured, with a sense of ripe fruit as well as the beginnings of maturity. A mineral edge adds to the complexity. Drink now.
Using grapes sourced entirely from Boushey Vineyard, this well-structured Syrah has a claret-like refinement. Sleek and focused, it offers raspberry and black cherry flavors, with a tight, taut structure and length. Some notes of leaf and earth trickle onto the finish.
Using grapes sourced entirely from the En Chamberlin Vineyard, this pure Cabernet is deep, dark, focused and tight, with firm but velvety tannins and a perfect mix of cassis, coffee and earth. Even more than previous years, this vintage displays astonishing depth and power. Flavors of Serrano ham and other cured meats, plus a delicate saltiness and minerality keep the flavors developing onto  the long, fascinating finish.
Using grapes sourced from 102-year-old vines, this is superripe and concentrated. Yet despite its richness, it has tight acidity that meshes with plum and damson fruits. Age for at least five years.
Using grapes sourced from 50-year-old vines, this is a powerful expression of rich Chardonnay. It has great depth of flavor, with concentrated, intense and ripe yellow and white fruits, spiced from having aged in the wood. Allow to age for over five years.
Using grapes sourced from 80-year-old vines, this is a rich, powerful wine, with juicy, generous black fruits. The big tannins are right upfront, lending a solid, dense texture. Gentle black fruits and acidity emerge on the finish.
Using grapes sourced from a Red Mountain vineyard, this pure Cabernet seems to have been overripened. Notes of raisin and prune appear on the nose and palate, and the mouthfeel is chalky and a bit flat.
Using grapes sourced from a steep slope in the Blanchot Vineyard, this powerful wine shows richness as well as concentrated fruitiness. Its smooth, mineral texture is punctuated acidity and flavors of apricot and melon fruit. Age for 4–5 years.
Using grapes sourced from an older vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, this pure Cabernet mixes blackberry and black cherry fruit with a lightly smoky core. It thins out quickly, and shows a hint of green in its tannins.
Using grapes sourced from estate vines planted in 1972, this wine is comparable, in its subtlety and delicate elegance, to an old-vine Zinfandel. Strawberry and spice run through the core, with brambly highlights and excellent balance. The wine is still a bit closed, so give it a good decanting, or leave it alone for a few more years.
Using grapes sourced from four high-quality vineyards, this shows deeply layered raspberry, cherry, cola and mushroom flavors, with no trace of the unripeness that marred some other coastal wines from this cool vintage. Drink it over the next six years before the fruit fades.
Using grapes sourced from Klipsun Vineyard, this is a roughly even Sauvignon Blanc–Sémillon blend. Flavors of sweet toast, lemon verbena and melon, with a hint of mint and a splash of orange soda are all in evidence. Nicely nuanced, this does not overreach, but rather zooms in on the details of aroma and flavor that keep it interesting.
Using grapes sourced from old vines, this is dark and concentrated. It's dominated at the start by firm, dry tannins, with its power coming from its dark, brooding fruit and dense structure. Age for at least four years.
Using grapes sourced from the excellent Stillwater Creek Vineyard, this is a ripe—to the point of being pruny—yet acidic red wine. The unsettled mix of raisiny fruit and chalky acids may or may not shake out with further bottle age.
Using grapes sourced from the greatest white-wine vineyard in Burgundy, this is huge, dense, very rich and complex. The balance already shows in the wine's acidity, ripe yellow fruit and round texture. Wood aging brings notes of spice and toast. This will age for many years.
Using grapes sourced from the Klipsun Vineyard, this disappointing effort is stemmy and tannic, with a bitter finish.
Using grapes sourced from vineyards just outside of the Chablis region, this soft and white-fruited wine is attractive and fragrant. A touch of vanilla adds another dimension, lending a ripe feel. Ready to drink.
Using grapes sourced primarily from Lodi, this Merlot is oaky and smoky, expressing an aroma of cooked black olive. It also features a subtle and toasty berry cobbler flavor, and the finish is all cedar and caramel.
Using Grenache sourced from the moderately cool Lonesome Springs Vineyard, this is slightly leafy, with notes of forest floor, blueberry and blackberry. This is the first pure Grenache ever made by Brian Carter. It doesn't just taste like a big bowl of berries; it has power and depth to spare.
Using many biodynamic practices, Werner Michlits has crafted a rich, sweet and juicy wine, full of intense fruit, touched by spice, but more to do with black plum, fresh figs and vivid acidity. This is a hearty wine, ready to drink, its final tannins soft. Screwcap.
Using organically farmed grapes, this boasts enticing scents of rose, blue flower, plum and cake spice. The chewy, delicious palate tastes of juicy wild cherry, black raspberry, white pepper, cinnamon and mocha and has round, ripe tannins that give it a smooth texture. Drink through 2020.
Using Ripanço, an old technique of destemming the grapes after harvest with wooden rods, the wine has intense color and a smooth, rich character. It is rounded and soft, with a light layer of tannins offering backbone to the generous fruitiness. Drink after 2015.
Using shriveled, dried Cabernet Franc grapes, this appassimento-style wine is a new endeavor in the Michigan wine scene, yet it might merit further experimentation for such a cool climate growing region. Initial notes of balsamic blow off to reveal notes of brandied cherries and dried hay. Medium in weight, with fine, sandy tannins, the palate is condensed and ripe in fresh cherry tones that linger on the finish. As a result of the drying process, the alcohol hits over 15%, yet beyond the roundness on the palate, it's quite imperceptible.
Using the all-too-confusing “extra dry” designation for a rather sweet sparkling wine seems unnecessary for this re-named wine with spiffy new packaging. The blend is 63% Chardonnay, 19% Pinot Noir and 18% Pinot Gris; the flavors are a mix of citrus rind and crystalized sugar. The finish, despite the sweetness, is slightly bitter.
Using the four main grapes of the Dão region—Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Alfrocheiro and Jaen—this is an impressive wine, with solid tannins and a crushed-stone texture. Black currant fruits are set against perfumed acidity and a dense structure which needs to soften for the wine to be fully ready. Drink this wine from 2018.
Using the Metodo Classico, this shows bright aromas of citrus, mountain flower and apricot. The mouthfeel is round and smooth, with a playful touch of bitter almond on the close.
Usually employed as a blending grape, Petit Verdot stands on its own two feet here, yielding a dry, sophisticated wine. With a full body and sizable tannins, it's rich and aromatic with blackberry, cassis and violet notes.
Usually Natura is better than this; this hot-vintage wine shows animal notes, spice and jumpy plum and cherry aromas. It's edgy and raw in feel, with hollow, green-leaning flavors and minty oak. An echo of green rattles across the finish.
Usually one of Yarra's top Pinots, the 2006 YS Reserve is a medium-bodied, rounded wine with extremely soft tannic structure. The aromas hint at brown sugar, coffee and cola, with flavors of roasted root vegetables and a touch of mushroom. Supple and silky on the finish. Drink now.
Usually Terrunyo exudes blatant ripeness, but this cool-vintage rendition smells stalky, rubbery and herbal more than ripe and lusty. The palate is chunky and extracted, but shallow. Herbal blackberry flavors are toasty and oaky, with licorice, pepper and spice flavors carrying a short finish.
Usually the bigger, more opulent of the Kumeu River Chardonnays, the 2015 version of the Coddington is medium to full in weight, but strikingly focused and vibrant. Bacony smoke notes frame white peach flavors, finishing long.
Usually this block is at the top of the offerings from Coeur de Terre, but a leathery aroma and dried-out fruit knock it down in this vintage. Earth, cola, mint, a hint of cherry and a pleasant spiciness are also there, but the saddle leather dominates. Two bottles tasted.
Utilizing only ambient yeasts and bottled without fining or filtration, this is a showcase of winemaker Kim Engle's devotion to natural winemaking. Dry in style with savory apple, orange rind and a whiff of apple cider vinegar on the nose and palate, the finish is long with a pleasant orange pekoe tea note.
Utter generosity of both ripe and dried pear is immediately evident on the nose. Notions of sandalwood hover. The dry palate carries that same, generous fluidity at its deep core. There is immense concentration, shimmering with dried, fresh and cooked pear. But there also is a sense of earth, stone and fresh orange peel. The wine seems like a message from another world, , leading you beyond the physical, into a wold of contemplation. The finish lasts and lasts.
Utterly brisk freshness and the slightest hint of green emanate from the glass. The palate, in keeping with the freshness, is utterly slender and brisk, underlined with a soft, fine mousse that enforces the pure lemon flavors. If you are looking for an apéritif of exquisite lightness and weightless charm, this is it.
Utterly delicious, with blackberry and cherry pie, chocolate health bar and caramelly wood flavors. But for the price, there's little in the way of tannin-acid structure, and flavor isn't enough for balance.
Utterly glowing notes of pear already point towards richness. Notes of smoke and nuttiness prevent them from appearing facile. The palate rings with the same fruity glow and introduces soft, pliable sweetness. Earthy elements echo here and there from the concentrated, focused palate. This certainly leaves a mark and finishes almost dry.
Uvaggio is making a serious case for Lodi Vermentino. This bottling is compelling: savory with herb and green olive notes, and yet freshly fruity and delicate, well integrated and plenty acidic to stand up to a wide range of food, even given its modest 11% alcohol level. A stunner that'll keep you thinking, and asking for more.
V. Sattui has been making some pretty good Cabernets, and here's another one. It's classic Napa, with smooth, polished tannins, fine acidity and ripe, full-bodied flavors of blackberries, black currants and cedar. Might even develop additional bottle complexity over the next 6–8 years.
V. Sattui has quietly been producing outstanding Cabernets, and here's another. The vineyard is on the Rutherford bench, arguably the tenderloin of the appellation. Made from 100% Cabernet, the wine is sumptuously rich and soft in tannins, with sour red-cherry candy, licorice, bacon and pepper spice flavors. Will age well for at least 10 years.
V. Sattui tries their hand at Grenache, with good results. The wine shows the variety's famed cherry flavors, intense and jammy, along with a good amount of caramelized oak. The winemaker wisely added a bit of Syrah and Petite Sirah, which add body and weight. Ready to drink now.
V.T.S. stands for Vintage Top Select, the prestige cuvee from Hans Moser. It's an eclectic blend of every grape imaginable, from Cabernet Sauvignon to Syrah, by way of Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch. What you get is a superrich wine that's beginning to mature, with dark plum jelly and sweet black fruit flavors. It is ripe and concentrated, just finishing with some firmness.
V.T.S.? Vintage Top Select is the name of this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt, Merlot and Syrah. Quite a collection, but the result is a finely polished wine, new wood topping a concentrated, lightly jammy texture, which has richness and good ripe redfruit flavors. A finishing bitterness, which needs to soften out, is the only downside here.
V90 is a soft red with bold fruit concentration and sweet aromas of jammy fruit, candied almond, vanilla and Christmas spice. It's a well-made wine with an easy approach and a bold mouthfeel.
V90 offers loads of fresh citrus and grapefruit with background aromas of fragrant white flower and peach blossom. The wine offers a soft, almost sweet delivery that would work nicely next to shellfish or shrimp.
Va Piano has introduced a stellar series of single-vineyard Syrahs. But if you had to pick just one, it would have to be this massive, beautifully structured bottle from Les Collines vineyard. Concentrated boysenberry fruit leads into a firm, sleek, subtle wine with even deeper flavors of black cherry, chocolate, espresso and baking spices.
Véronique Barthe is the first woman to manage the estate that has been in the Barthe family since 1789. She delivered a light and bright wine, poised and stylish with its crisp fruit and tangy acidity. A delicious burst of citrus at the end continues the theme of this fruity wine.
Vacheron are masters of red Sancerre, and this wine lives up to the billing. There are impressively ripe fruits, flavors of the brightest berries and a sweet, pure character, emphasized by the acidity and underlined by wood.
Vacillates between seeming totally fresh and clean and showing herbal, light green notes. There's graham cracker, jammy blackberry and bergamot on the nose, but also a pickled element. Grabby, chunky and jammy in the mouth, with juicy acidity and blue fruit flavors.
Vague apple, pear and lime pith aromas show on the subdued nose of this bottling. The palate is pleasant, with dried apple, lime peel and grass flavors, but it's somewhat lacking in energy.
Vague black-pepper aromas and almost neutral flavors combine for a simple, muted wine. It is medium bodied and innocuous.
Vague melon aromas are strange at best and offputting at worst. This blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Moscatel is watery and suggestive of cantaloupe juice. Funky, mushy white-fruit flavors are tough to wade through.
Vague tropical fruit aromas give way to a petrol note. High in acid but even higher in sugar, this offers flavors of orange and lime that finish fast.
Vaguely Chardonnay-like, with peppery, peach aromas and flavors, bone dry, and a creamy mouthfeel. Not a lot of complexity, it's a country-style wine, with no flaws but kind of obvious. —S.H.
Vaguely floral aromas precede a sweet, cloying palate that tastes candied.
Vaillons is on the left bank of Serein river across from the slope of Grand Cru vineyards. This wine, made from organically grown grapes, is ripe while also having a tense, steely texture that will allow it to develop for several years. Apple and pink-grapefruit flavors are lifted by nervy acidity. Drink from 2018.
Vaio Armaron is an elegant and sophisticated wine that exhibits deep complexity and aromatic intensity. Thanks to its pretty layers of red cherry, spice and cola this wine exemplifies the best of classic Amarone tradition. It makes a fabulous winter wine to be paired with beef stew or roasts.
Vajasindi Làvico is a lively expression of Nerello Mascalese that is redolent of capers, black olives, black fruit and exotic spice. The wine is sharp and intense in the mouth, with a bright personality and some chewy, ripe fruit notes on the close.
Valamasca is a bright and foamy Moscato d'Asti with cheerful aromas of white flower, honey, peach and dried hay. The creamy effervescence feels thick and smooth in the mouth and the wine would pair with baked desserts or fruit.
Valbuena is Vega Sicilia's so-called second wine, and this vintage is elegant and lithe. To equate it to Burgundian Pinot Noir is not a stretch, seeing that the nose is earthy and dry, with fresh flowers, leather and tobacco aromas. The palate is light and full of finesse, with airy cranberry, earth and cherry flavors. From a poor vintage, this is more than admirable. A Europvin, Christopher Cannan selection, imported by multiple importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines.
Valcolomba is a pure expression of Vermentino from Maremma in southern Italy with ripe aromas of melon, peach and passion fruit. The mouthfeel is smooth, easy and creamy soft.
Valdivieso's nonvintage mystery blend is always one of Chile's most curious wines, and 16 happens to be superb. An opening of rich black-cherry aromas tips towards spice cake with raisins. A lush, saturated palate holds delicious flavors of chocolaty black fruits, while on the finish a dark smokiness takes over. Drink now–2023.
Valentina Cubi is one of our favorite Amarone producers thanks to the fine line this husband and wife team draws between Old World and New World styles. The aromas here recall ripe fruit, red apple, spice, mesquite wood and dried herbs. This wine speaks the language of Valpolicella and imparts sweet, velvety tannins.
Valiano offers good quality at an attractive price and delivers aromas of wild berry, vanilla, toasted almond and moist earthy tones. These qualities show true characteristics of Sangiovese and Tuscany.
Vall Llach Embruix may be the winery's base-level offering but it's no starter wine. Five grapes led by Garnacha are blended to achieve a potent and piercing brew of blueberry aromas, black cherry and cassis flavors, and a rich, chocolaty finish. Modern in style, and making no apologies for it. Equal in quality to the excellent 2004 Embruix.
Vall Llach is known for making ripe-styled wines, and this fits the bill. Embruix is ripe and raisiny on the nose, with black currant and prune-like aromas. A thick, jammy, stewy palate holds flavors of prune, blackberry and bitter chocolate, while the finish is hot and sticky, with molasses and chocolate flavors.
Valley of the Moon hasn't raised the price on this Bordeaux blend for years, which makes it a value for the complexity you get. This isn't one of those soft, mushy wines that's all flavor and no structure. Acids and tannins provide the architecture for polished blackberry, black olive and smoky oak flavors that are so appealing.
Valmaggiore Riserva exhibits dark color and concentration with a mixed bag of aromas that spans dark fruit, prune, olive and caper. The mouth sees more richness and softness with a seductive touch of sweet spice on the finish.
Valmur is considered to produce a generous style of Grand Cru, and this wine lives up to that. It's warm and rounded while never losing touch with the crisper side of a great Chablis. The ripe white and yellow fruits are on the rich side, cut with citrus acidity and underlined by wood aging. Drink from 2018.
Valpolicella is an informal but friendly wine that pairs with a long list of easy foods like pasta and pizza. This expression opens with bright cherry, blueberry and almond aromas.
Valpolicella Nanfrè presents an easy but balanced bouquet with defined elements of mature berry fruit, prune, Indian spice and crushed black pepper. You'll love those savory, spicy nuances on the close.
Valpolicella Vigneto Sant'Urbano offers very bright, albeit, one-dimensional aromas of red cherry and blueberry. The mouthfeel is crisp and smooth and the wine promises to pair with light meat or pasta.
Valtravieso Winery is now run by the international wine consultant Michel Rolland and Javier Galaretta. This ripe, stewy blend of Tempranillo and Merlot shows aromas of animal, cheesy oak and soft berry fruit. The mouthfeel is heavy and somewhat flat, while extremely ripe berry flavors hint at raisin. This is more jammy than structured.
Value-level Chardonnay has never really been Argentina's strong suit, but this fuller-bodied version is pretty good. It starts with citrus, orange peel and some dusty scents, which are backed by melon, apple and citrus flavors. It finishes with some pithy bitterness but overall it's nice for Mendoza Chardonnay.
Value and quality come with Faustino's 2007 rosé. Red licorice nibs, spice and cherry-raspberry aromas set it off in the right direction. The palate is wide, but good acidity keeps the nectarine and sweet grapefruit flavors on target. Dry, pithy and fleshy on the finish. It's the type of dry rosé that we want to drink.
Values from Spain are becoming less common than they were a few years back, so hail this nicely made Tempranillo that delivers tons of ripe fruit, purity and drinkability. It's nothing difficult or complex; instead it is dark, chewy and pounds you with ripe black-fruit flavors. A mouthfilling, fully ripe wine with a modest upside but no faults.
Vanilla-soaked French toast and caramelized apples promise a butter bomb in this Testarossa take on the historic Sierra Madre Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley. Once sipped, there is a surprising level of soda-like acidity, and a steadily emerging flavor profile that ranges from cream soda to squeezed lime.
Vanilla and Animal Cracker aromas fold in mango and banana. The palate is soft and creamy, with not much acidity and pulpy flavors of ripe banana and pithy citrus. Soft and peachy on the finish.
Vanilla and baking spices frame blueberry and plum fruit in this rich, velvety offering. It's slightly fuller and bolder than Colombo's 2014 La Louvée, but also less precise and perfumed. Drink now–2030.
Vanilla and banana jelly, manuka honey and muscovado sugar—layer upon layer of fruity sweetness with tropical overtones of pineapple is revealed on the luscious palate. Such liveliness is engendered here with a seemingly endless finish. A total triumph.
Vanilla and butter touches give this medium-bodied, rather oaky wine extra richness. Its soft, creamy texture and muted fruit flavors are a bit unusual for the type, but it's still quite enjoyable to sip.
Vanilla and caramel flavors dominate this wine after 12 months in French oak. That means that the fruit is really not allowed to shine. It is firm, very dry and all about spice. A pepper flavor from the alcohol leaves a burn in the mouth.
Vanilla and caramel show right away on the nose of this bottling, followed by stewed blackberry and black plum sauce, proving quite jammy but layered with burnt sugar aromas. Blackberry pie in a vanilla crust is the flavor that pops on the palate, along with black plum and all manner of purple fruit and flower.
Vanilla and cinnamon give this fresh, full-fruited red and its notions of plum and ripe cherry a very generous feel. This is easy to drink and easy to like, with a lovely plush mouthfeel and a medium body. Its fresh core is a real bonus.
Vanilla and cinnamon notes show some oak influence in this medium-bodied well-made wine that has enough plum and red-cherry flavors to balance out a lightly tannic texture.
Vanilla and cookie crumb notes add a sweet, toasty flair to the sour cherry flavor on this bright, nervy red. The palate is tart, tangy and refreshingly tasty, with soft, chalky tannins that linger on the finish.
Vanilla and cookie dough flavors dominate. The fruit is light and simple cherry candy; the tannins are equally light. Quaffable and refreshing.
Vanilla and cream, cocoa, and herbs really jazz up the medium-berry nose. Dark sweet fruit in the mouth, with some earth and cedar for substance. Bitter chocolate and espresso add backbone to the medium-length finish. Good and balanced, and not bad for current consumption.
Vanilla and fig hints add interest to this medium-bodied, richly textured wine. It's quietly fruity, suggesting honeydew melon, and has complex layers that unfold on the palate. It's a very good example of how this grape variety thrives in Lake County.
Vanilla and fresh lumber notes lead the way, but gardenia and stone fruits emerge in the mouth and lead to a long, creamy finish remniscent of a peach milkshake. A final kick of acidity keeps the whole thing balanced.
Vanilla and green wood aromas are at the fore, followed by cherry and herbs. The fruit flavors are sweet and elegant, with the oak nearly completely overriding them.
Vanilla and leesy aromas create a reticent bouquet. This feels plump, chunky and oily at first, but more cut and precise with time. Green apple, canned green bean and bell pepper flavors turn more spicy and in the direction of jalapeño on the finish.
Vanilla and lemon curd aromas bring nuance and depth to the the complex bouquet of this wine. Full bodied with a silky texture, tones of green apple and mango show bright on the palate, leading to a splash of minerality on the finish.
Vanilla and maple aromas lead to overtly fruity red cherry flavors with a touch of sweetness and a soft texture. It's pleasant to drink for those looking for a soft touch, with very mild acidity and no tannin to speak of.
Vanilla and notes of mocha pervade nose and palate: this peppery, ripe and cherry-laden Blaufränkisch has a good dollop of fine oak spice. The generous body counters dill fruit and mellow spice with ample freshness and ripe, pliable tannins. Lovely now but a year or two of bottle age will reveal more of the rich fruit.
Vanilla and pear aromas begin this soft-bodied wine that is mouthfilling and easy, but not up to shocking anyone. The flavors of orange and pineapple are close to the real thing, and the finish is smooth and easy. A mellow white wine at its best.
Vanilla and pepper aromas lead to sexy, vanilla and black cherry flavors on the palate and finish. A very good effort and an enjoyable wine, though a little heavy on the vanilla.
Vanilla and ripe fruit aromas and a creamy texture give this wine its rounded fruity character. White fruits, caramel and light spice all come into play. The wine is ready to drink.
Vanilla and spice aromas lend confectionery notes to this soft, slightly syrupy red wine. Sweet and fleshy on the palate, it's light in alcohol and acidity. The finish is marked by fine but rigid tannins.
Vanilla and toasted almond aromas evolve into a scent of tarte tatin. Full bodied, with warm alcohol, this shows medium fruit concentration. The acidity is borderline in its balance, leaning to flabiness. The tactile heat on the medium finish is distracting.
Vanilla and white fruits on the nose lead this fuller bodied organic Chard. On the palate, a spicy, robust style of white unfolds, making it ideal for everything from salmon to creamy poultry dishes. Nice spicy finish.
Vanilla aromas and sweet butter and baked apple flavors make this medium-bodied wine appealing and easy to enjoy. The acidity is very light, and the texture soft.
Vanilla aromas give this wine its warm wood character. The ripe fruits that are underneath are full of red berries, touches of spice and acidity. This is a full-bodied wine, likely to be ready from 2017.
Vanilla aromas indicate that wood aging has made an already ripe wine even richer. The tannins are still young, calling for aging, but bold cherry and red plum tones are ripe, full bodied and open. Drink this concentrated wine from 2019.
Vanilla candle wax, pollen and peaches-and-cream aromas are inviting and warm. The luscious body of juicy stone fruit is overcome by soapy floral notes on the midpalate, yet the persistent acid manages to clean up the flavors on the finish.
Vanilla cookies and sulfuric match stick are about all you can draw from the bouquet. This is flat in feel, with candied, flabby flavors of green fruits. The finish is bland.
Vanilla cookies, peach and nectarine aromas work the opening. In the mouth, there's a nice and even flow of acidity and pulpy tropical fruits. Flavors of tangerine, melon and lychee are authentic and well balanced, while the finish is musky, fresh and confirms the wine's high quality.
Vanilla cream and a stony minerality form around a bitterness of preserved lemon and a touch of heat, that takes on an abundance of intensity on the finish.
Vanilla cream, banana, Golden Delicious apple and a rubbery note characterize the intense aromas of this Northern Italian wine that moves over the palate in a pleasing way thanks to its creamy smoothness.
Vanilla cream, honey and tropical-fruit flavors mark this Chardonnay, which was fermented and aged in stainless steel. It's a straightforward wine, for drinking now.
Vanilla cream, marzipan and apple custard hit the nose on this creamy, dairy-inflected bottling, but a fine line of Key-lime rind balances things. Pan-seared apples in lemon juice mesh well with saffron and dandelion as well as buttered toast with lime marmalade on the dynamic palate.
Vanilla is the lead flavor on this generic, oaky Chardonnay. Creamy and a tad soft in the mouth, it has flavors of resiny oak that blend with pear, melon and vanilla on the palate. Popcorn notes come up on a woody finish.
Vanilla pervades the luscious palate of plum and berry. Everything here is at full volume: opulent fruit and ripe, structured tannin, alcoholic heat and oaky spice. This is unashamedly big and bold and will need a rare T-bone steak to tame it.
Vanilla salt-water taffy and melted butter are undercut with lime juice on the nose of this wine. Once sipped, it has a slightly waxy mouthfeel along with flavors of dried apples and underripe lime rinds, giving a slightly sour character.
Vanilla soda, pineapple and a touch of herbaceousness hit the nose first in this Chardonnay, which is grown high in the Santa Lucia range by a family that's ranched the land since the 1850s. On the palate, some creaminess emerges alongside flavors of tart green apple and toffee nuts. Serve with lemon-herb chicken or well-seasoned fish dishes.
Vanilla toast and a compelling yeasty character on the nose entice. It's a little brighter on the palate, offering a balanced combination of minerality, acid and cream that lingers.
Vanilla wafer, slightly mealy apple and citrus aromas open this slightly unfocused wine. The palate is flat, with flavors of green fruit and citrus that finish abruptly.
Vanilla wraps itself around cherry, cranberry and pomegranate to open with a ripe bang before this wine delves into darker tar notes and big tannins. Powerfully dense and concentrated, it maintains an herbal overtone that suggest further potential over time.
Vanilla, apple juice and banana aromas comprise the nose on this flat feeling, sugary tasting Cava that claims to be “dry” but tastes anything but. Flavors of ripe banana, vanilla and papaya taste like powdered sugar on the finish.
Vanilla, baked cherry and coconut aromas lead the nose. Bright and tense, the palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry, vanilla and clove flavors, bolstered by firm acidity and youthfully austere tannins that leave a grippy finish. It needs to unwind and soften.
Vanilla, baking spice, black licorice, flower and dried cherry aromas are followed by sweet fruit flavors. The tannins bring some astringency and it seems a bit dried out.
Vanilla, baking spice, cocoa, herb and dark fruit aromas are followed by ripe, generous black-fruit flavors. The layers provide room for exploration.
Vanilla, baking spice, coconut and dark fruit aromas lead to plush, plentiful purple-fruit flavors. It provides a lot of enjoyment and appeal, showing equal parts fruit and barrel.
Vanilla, baking spice, cranberry and cherry aromas lead to soft, medium-bodied fruit flavors with an elegant styling. It's a very pretty representation of the vintage with good balance.
Vanilla, baking spice, dark-fruit and herb aromas are followed by elegant cranberry and raspberry flavors. Spice flavors linger on the finish. It's a pretty expression of the variety, showing impeccable balance.
Vanilla, baking spice, herb, plum and cherry aromas are followed by supersmooth, creamy feeling plum and barrel flavors in this Cabernet. Caramel and vanilla notes linger on the finish, and while the oak influence is heavy, it largely works.
Vanilla, baking spice, huckleberry, herb and blackberry aromas are at the fore. The black and blue-fruit flavors are soft and supple, bringing light savory notes that provide appeal.
Vanilla, barrel spice, coffee and dark fruit aromas are followed by generous black fruit and barrel flavors that show exquisite balance. It's impossible not to enjoy.
Vanilla, black-cherry soda and a berry crème brûlée character combine for a very playful and fun nose on this bottling. The palate tightens up that fun a bit but stays sexy, offering dark chocolate, red-berry jam and a shred of mint.
Vanilla, black cherry and cinnamon on the nose lead the aromas of this exotic red. On the palate, a good red fruit and spice balance offers layers of cherry, plum and cedar. Likeable and a good introduction to Xinomavro.
Vanilla, butterscotch and some harsher oak-derived compounds dominate the modest citrus fruit that might have been wine before it was turned into oak juice. For wood lovers only.
Vanilla, cedar and caramel abound on the nose of this opulent reserve Cabernet Franc. Its unabashed oakiness integrates well into the palate though, adding a sexy, spicy tone to ripe black berry and plum flavors. It's bold, concentrated and a bit brawny, but irresistibly so, finishing with remarkable depth and persistence. Hold till 2020 to allow its brawn to settle.
Vanilla, cedar and mint notes mark the nose, while this wine boasts just enough fruit on the plate to carry the lavish oak. It's full bodied, creamy and supple, amply concentrated but still very approachable. Drink now–2023.
Vanilla, cedar and plum notes benefit from a dusting of cracked pepper in this medium-bodied dry red. The tannins are supple to the point of creaminess, and the finish warm and spicy. Drink now.
Vanilla, cherry and a crunch of barbecue chips greet the entry of this full-bodied, weighty wine that's soft in tannin. Baked plum and cinnamon make it inviting and satisfying on the palate, finishing with a zest of racy acidity.
Vanilla, cherry and raspberry flavors are complemented by smoky meat and tar in this softly built, mellow and pensively sweet wine that's ripe and generous in body.
Vanilla, cherry and violet on the nose lead into flavors of black fruit, spices and pepper in this balanced, crisp red. Complex but refreshing, with a food-friendly character. Pair with lamb, cheeses.
Vanilla, cherry, cedar, pipe smoke and violet extracts swirl into a rather amazing nose on this wine from the Gallo-owned producer. The black cherry-dominated palate is lifted by baking soda minerality, and the tannins are present but not intrusive.
Vanilla, cherry, strawberry and spice on the nose is followed by slightly smokier, bigger flavors on the palate. The wine has a fruity character backed by pepper and spice. Clean and suited for myriad flavors, from seafood salad to grilled lamb.
Vanilla, citrus and white flowers on the nose lead this memorable white from mainland Greece. The overall character is linear and crisp, with lemon and limestone flavors interlaced with exotic fruits and rose. A wine with class and character that will offer diverse food pairing experiences.
Vanilla, clove, allspice, dried ginger and soy are laced into black-plum sauce on the nose of this densely layered wine. The palate is even-handed, with tight boysenberry spiced up by caramel and bitter espresso notes.
Vanilla, clove, baking spice and dark fruit aromas lead to a palate plush with full ripe generous fruit and barrel flavors. It's a hedonistic delight, with the barrel influence playing a prominent role.
Vanilla, cocoa, barrel spice and herb aromas are followed by creamy fruit and barrel flavors. The vanilla notes overwhelm the nose and palate, however, distracting from the fruit.
Vanilla, cocoa, graphite, woodspice and black cherry aromas lead to polished blackberry and cherry flavors in this Cabernet. It shows a fine balance and texture that piques interest, and a distinctive spice note that lingers on the finish.
Vanilla, coconut and baking-spice aromas are out in front of dark fruit. The cranberry and cherry flavors show vibrancy, with fruit and barrel flavors lingering on the long finish.
Vanilla, coconut and baking spice aromas are at the fore, with the wood primary. The palate is rich and full bodied, with dark fruit and oak spice flavors. There are some good things going on but the oak—half new American and half seasoned French—rides right over them.
Vanilla, coconut and toast aromas are vibrant and out-front, followed by tropical fruit. This wine is full bodied with a viscous, almost oily feel that persists through the finish. It offers some good things, but the variety gets lost in the style.
Vanilla, coconut shavings, earth and dark-fruit aromas are followed by full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors. It delivers enjoyment, but the variety seems to get lost in the oak.
Vanilla, dill, pickling spice and dried-cherry aromas are followed by full-flavored black cherry and licorice notes, backed by grainy tannins. The wood and fruit tussle at times but there are still lots of good things going on.
Vanilla, green wood and dark fruit aromas lead to sweet black currant and baking spice flavors. The wood is somewhat prominent at times but it still provides a lot of appeal.
Vanilla, herb, cherry, coconut and barrel spice aromas are followed by supple cherry and spice flavors in this wine. The barrel influence is a bit up-front, but it still provides plenty of pleasure.
Vanilla, herb, pencil box and spice aromas are followed by sweet cherry flavors in this wine. Lightly tacky tannins provide support.
Vanilla, honey, citrus and spice aromas lead this luscious white blend from Bellingham. On the palate, vanilla, lemon and creamy white fruit all mingle in a round, integrated character, but are spun with spice. A pretty, appealing white with something for everyone.
Vanilla, lees notes and wafer cookie aromas are not terribly fruity or upright. This is chunky on the palate, with an odd spritzy feel. Briny orange is the key flavor, along with an oily nuttiness.The finish is pithy and breaks up.
Vanilla, licorice, herb and woodspice aromas are followed by slightly gritty-feeling cranberry flavors. This wine is interesting, but it doesn't all come together.
Vanilla, mocha and dark-fruit aromas lead to tart fruit and barrel flavors that interweave through the vanilla-filled finish.
Vanilla, oak spice, tea, berry, olive and herb aromas signal a classic Rioja. Its crisp palate and choppy tannins form the canvas for spicy berry and cassis flavors. More spice powers the finish, which has the fruit to absorb and support the high level of oak. Drink through 2025.
Vanilla, orange marmalade and butterscotch aromas intrigue in this more voluptuous white. On the palate, flavors of butterscotch and orange peel are unique but the white could use a touch more balancing acidity. Overall though, this is a unique everyday wine.
Vanilla, pear and a whiff of wintergreen make the nose intriguing, but after that it's commercial mango and pineapple flavors with a pithy finish. A sweet, overpumped Chardonnay.
Vanilla, pencil eraser and red-berry aromas set up a fresh, juicy, healthy feeling palate. Flavors of oak, vanilla, berry fruits and plum finish with additional vanilla flavors and woodspice. As a whole, this is bright, zesty and oaky, even for a wine that's more than five years old.
Vanilla, plum, clove and leather wrap around softy layered tannin and oak in this simple blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Tempranillo and Carignane.
Vanilla, popcorn and baked apple aromas create a good but one-dimensional nose. In the mouth, things run tight and acidic, with a puckering, lemony feel and austere flavors of dry apple and spice. Finishes tangy and lemony.
Vanilla, popcorn, resiny oak, pear and pineapple aromas come in front of a creamy feeling palate. Flavors of oak, vanilla, popcorn and tropical fruits end similarly. This is consistently sweet and oaky from nose to palate to finish.
Vanilla, ripe pear and cinnamon touches appear on the nose of this wine. That cinnamon impression becomes stronger on the palate, where it frames yellow apple and pear fruit. Medium-bodied and dry, it's characterised more by oak than by fruit, with a richly spiced, mellow finish.
Vanilla, saffron and other exotic yellow spices are laced amidst the dried apples, dried pineapples and just-cut lemons on the nose of this wine from a vineyard on the cool western fringe of the appellation. It's fairly broad in the mouth, with lots of lemon zest, cooked apples and more vanilla, cut by a pithy bitterness.
Vanilla, spice and citrus aromas start this dependable Greek Chardonnay. Spicy citrus, vanilla, fresh white fruit and flowers on the palate are balanced and easy to love. Pair with richer seafood or salads.
Vanilla, strawberry and cherry on the nose leads into a spicy but balanced blend of fresh and fruity flavors. The wine offers ample minerality so it's clean on the tongue. Delightful and flirty, and good with fruit desserts.
Vanilla, thyme, dill and plum aromas are followed by plentiful fruit and barrel flavors that possess a pleasing mouthfeel. The oak is out front at times, especially on the aromas, but the wine is appealing.
Vanilla, toast and stone-fruit aromas are followed by light, elegantly styled flavors that show persistence. It comes off as a bit faint but what's there is pleasing.
Vanilla, tobacco and anise flavors quickly overwhelm the fruit; perhaps the wine just needs to breathe longer. At first taste, it quickly turns tannic and very drying; the fruit is buried and the oak flavors are still a bit jarring and disjointed.
Vanilla, toffee, wood spice and Band-Aid aromas are out in front of herb are red fruit. The palate is lighter in style, mixing equal part fruit and barrel, finishing tart.
Vanilla, wood shavings, charcoal and floral berry aromas come with a hint of minty green. The palate has a healthy but common grabbiness to it, with flavors of black cherry, cassis and herbs. Almost cloying on the finish, with candied notes and vanilla. A strange wine that doesn't fully come together.
Vanilla, wood spice, herb and plum aromas are followed by soft, silky purple-fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze on the finish.
Vanillan oak notes dominate on this Pinot Noir, originating from Nelson, on the northwest of New Zealand's South Island. Red berry, licorice, and savory olive characters follow, along with chunky tannins and lashings of acidity. Stylistically this is a broody, oaky, powerful expression of Pinot and one that will need food or a few years in bottle for the oak to mellow out. Drink now–2022.
Vanillla, baking spice and dried herb aromas are at the forefront. The dark-fruit flavors are dense, supported by lively acids and firm but well integrated tannins. It's a delicious example of the variety.
Vargellas is always associated with violet aromas as well as the strength and power of its wines inside a velvet glove. The 2012 is concentrated yet soft and smooth on the surface. It's fruity and fresh, while brooding with inner strength. Drink now for its fruit; wait until 2021 for its power and longevity.
Varietal aromas of fresh and dried herbs, flowers and cherries mix with tar, chocolate and barrel spices. The palate displays a reserved styling and a lingering finish.
Varietal aromas of tomato vine, elderflower, gooseberry and citrus lead the nose and follow through to the palate along with grapefruit, sage and mineral. Racy acidity leaves a crisp finish.
Varietal bottles of Malbec are an extreme rarity in this appellation. This one, which hails from Frazier Bluff Vineyard, offers light aromas of dried herbs, plum, pepper and tobacco. The blue fruit flavors are sweet and lithe, with the texture upping the enjoyment.
Varietal bottlings of Sangiovese are an extreme rarity in this appellation, yet this wine makes its case for more. It shows aromas of herbs, cigar box, mocha, plum and raspberry jam. Flavors convey purity and concentration, with the tannins providing a lightly chalky feel.
Varietal Counoise is a rarity in the state. This one offers aromas of mortared fresh herbs and red plum that are followed by plump pure fruit flavors that stretch-out on the finish.
Varietal Garnacha Blanca from Catalonia is a distinct animal, and this is a prize specimen. Waxy and mature on the nose, but with dry scents of peach pit and apricot, this feels full and peachy but also grabby and acidic. Papaya and stone-fruit flavors finish full, pulpy and balanced. Drink through 2017.
Varietal Graciano will never fit into the mold of “tried and true,” but this 2004 from top-level producer Contino shows the grape in its most positive light. The nose is natural, with hints of cola and ripe berries. The feel is brawny and intense, with semi-searing acids offset by ripe tannins. Finishes well, with a cleansing wave of red fruit and citrusy flavors. More of a novelty than anything, but a fine wine in and of itself.
Varietal in its celebration of lychees and roses, this wine also exudes richness and oak, while remaining relatively low in alcohol. From a fantastic site in the heart of the Russian River, it finishes in a tropical flourish.
Varietal Malbec from New Zealand is a rarity. This one is medium to full in body, with supple tannins that end silky and long. The herbal shadings may be a bit much for tasters accustomed to fruity Argentine versions, but black cherry and mocha notes compensate.
Varietal Malbec is rarity from this appellation. This one brings aromas of purple fruit, barrel spice, black pepper, plum and spice that are followed by pitch-black-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a gentle squeeze.
Varietal Malbecs are a rarity from this tiny appellation. This one offers aromas of dark plum, herb and wood spice. The flavors are full bodied and hedonistic, showing the ripe, forward style of the vintage, finishing a bit sharp.
Varietal notes of pepper mingle with a tart, lactic freshness on the nose. The palate mirrors these flavors but balances them with soft creaminess. The body is light and dry with a slight phenolic edge pulling through all the way to the tart finish.
Varietal offerings are a rarity in this appellation. This one brings aromas of dill, woodspice and vanilla, with the focus on the barrel. The tart red cherry flavors are silky smooth, gliding on the finish.
Varietal scents of cut grass, grapefruit and a hint of tomato vine come forward on this vibrant white. The racy palate offers gooseberry, kiwi and a note of green bell pepper that lead up to a tangy finish.
Varietally and regionally correct, with green, grassy, punchy aromas of citrus, white pepper and jalapeño. This is prickly in the mouth, with lively acidity and flavors of lime, scallion, green apple and bell pepper. It finishes with cut and juicy acids.
Varietally correct aromas of cured ham, honeysuckle blossom and orange peel are fair and solid. This is a bit flat in feel, without much zest or snap. Flavors of green banana and lightly bitter green fruits fall off quickly on the finish.
Varietally correct aromas of peach and melon form a good opening to this mostly fresh but fading Albariño. Flavors of melon, papaya and peach are typical for the grape, and the finish is holding on but showing signs of maturation. Drink immediately.
Varietally correct aromas of white flowers, lychee and tropical fruits feed into a plump, creamy palate that's losing some of the steam it probably had when it was bottled. Melon, banana and lychee flavors finish on the heavy, creamy side. Drink immediately.
Varietally correct on the nose, this has green apple, grapefruit and floral aromas. It feels basic, tangy and linear, with notes of melon, citrus and a dry, crisp finish that's mildly briny and a touch bitter.
Varietally correct scents of rose petals and spice burst from the glass, followed by pear and melon fruit. It's all backed by acidity that's fairly crisp for Gewürztraminer and relatively modest residual sugar. The only quibble is the relatively quick fade on the finish.
Varietally correct Syrah from Washington can be difficult to find in this price range but this wine brings it with notes of blueberry, mesquite and vanilla along with a soft, subdued, citrusy feel. Finishes a touch ripe.
Varietally correct, with familiar prickly aromas along with citrus and sweat. It's pretty much all you could ask for at under $10, and with honest lemon and pineapple flavors its committed and alive. Good mouthfeel with grab and body only secures its standing as a white wine Best Buy.
Varietally designated Pinot Noirs are an extreme rarity from this warm region. This one brings notes of cranberry, copper penny and herb, although the aromas not in sync. The flavors are plump and sweet, showing a sense of elegance.
Varietally familiar aromas of petrol and white fruits set up a tight, acidic palate with lemon-lime and nectarine flavors. On the finish, this tastes pithy and loses clarity and zest as it winds down.
Varietally funky, light in color and straightforward in approach, this still-young wine has structured tannins that persist on the palate, nearly chewy but starting to find their groove. Orange and cinnamon are dominant characteristics.
Varietally specific aromas of wild flowers, honey and lemon verbena set up an unctuous, creamy palate with modest acidity and lots of weight. Honey, mango, vanilla and other sweet, tropical flavors finish thick but not quite cloying. This is a unique wine for Navarra that deserves to be judged on its own.
Varietally typical aromas of grapefruit and green onion start it off, but the palate is more citrusy, as it emphasizes flavors of orange, grapefruit, passion fruit and some pickle. The finish is fresh and clean, and the mouthfeel is juicy. However, dilution of flavors and a failure to improve once opened hold it back.
Varius is a blend of 50% Negroamaro with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The bouquet is steady and clean with pretty offerings of black fruit, spice and dark chocolate. It is rich, clean and polished; the finish shows a touch of bitter almond.
Varois is a small enclave surrounded by Côtes de Provence vineyards. This wine, with its softness, touches of vanilla as well as the proper rich red fruits, is a gentle rosé, easy and ready to drink.
Vasse Felix's 2011 Chardonnay is full bodied and fleshy without going over the top. Toasty, grilled-bread notes mark the nose, while the palate unfurls into a mix of peach, melon and citrus flavors that finish clean and refreshing. Drink this well balanced wine over the next few years.
Vasse Felix's impressively consistent track record with Cabernet continues with the 2009, a mouth-filling, supple wine that still retains a modicum of structure. Bold cassis fruit is balanced by earthy, meaty complexity and finishes long and mouthwatering. Drinkable now, but it should hold easily through 2020, and possibly longer.
Vaulorent is often grouped with others as Fourchaume Premier Cru. Here Brocard has bottled it separately to bring out its ripe fruits and warm character. The wine is toasty, smooth although not losing its more mineral texture. It offers a delicious, rounded vanilla aftertaste.
Vaulorent is on the same slope as the Grand Crus, giving it an extra structure. Very ripe and forward, this wine shows both power and the approachability of the vintage. It has plenty of freshness while also showing off yellow fruits and pineapple richness. A more textured, steely, crisp aftertaste will allow the wine to age. Drink from 2018.
Vavasour has done better than this in the past, and undoubtedly will do better in the future. The 2008 just lacks a bit of the jacked-up pungency that it has had in the past, instead offering relatively tame white grapefruit aromas and flavors and just a touch of grassiness. Well made, clean and refreshing.
Vecchia Modena is a landmark label in the world of Lambrusco and is often seen as one of the easiest and most straightforward expressions of the ruby-red sparkling wine. It shows a light cherry color with bright raspberry and blueberry flavors capped by white foam.
Veering towards sweet, this soft, generous wine is rich with attractive lychee and spice flavors. There's little hint of acidity although the buoyant feel of the wine compensates. It's ready to drink.
Vegan friendly and made with organic grapes, this fresh informal rosé has subtle aromas of red berry, wild flower and a whiff of tilled soil. The easygoing palate offers sour cherry and a hint of dried sage.
Vegetal-leaning aromas of beans, peas and squash lead to a round somewhat flabby palate. Green, herbal flavors crowd out mild citrus and melon notes in front of a low-acid soft finish.
Vegetal-leaning, stewy aromas of plum and jammy berry are saucy. This feels sticky and low in acidity. Grassy, herbal plum and berry flavors are a bit green on the finish.
Vegetal and a little unclean, with deficient acidity that makes the fruit tastes insipid and sweet. Meanwhile, high alcohol makes it all hot.
Vegetal and dry, this Rhône-style blend of Syrah and Mourvèdre doesn't have much going for it.
Vegetal and dull, with asparagus and raspberry flavors.
Vegetal and earthy, this very dry wine has a brittle, metallic mouthfeel. It's shy in fruit, offering only slight berry-cherry flavors.
Vegetal and herbal, with disageeable aromas of canned white asparagus. Tastes a little better than it smells, but hardly like a Chardonnay. Flavors are citrusy, and the wine is lean and tart.
Vegetal and metallic on the nose, this Verdejo fails to improve as it goes along. It's dilute in feel, with celery and grassy flavors. It finishes bitter and flabby.
Vegetal and watery, a very dry wine that offers little in the way of fruit. Tastes like alcohol with a drop or two of grapefruit juice.
Vegetal aromas are followed by a more red berry, while always herbal, wine. It is taut, showing minerality as well as a tight texture. The wine is young and will certainly round out as it ages over the next 2–3 years.
Vegetal aromas of canned peas are also oddly powdery. This feels racy and healthy, but flavors of canned veggies echo the nose. A salty, green-tasting, peppery finish yields little to no fruit.
Vegetal aromas outmuscle the wine's green fruit character. A plump, round mouthfeel offers only mild acidity, while the vegetal essence returns on the palate, with sulfuric bitterness on the finish.
Vegetal flavors run through the cherries and blackberries of this Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah blend. Despite a rich softness and velvety tannins, the unripeness makes it hard to appreciate.
Vegetal notes of asparagus mingle with accents of chalk and sweet grass on the nose, while ruby grapefruit and underripe mango flavors burst in the mouth. Vibrant and clean; drink now.
Vegetal notes, mild citrus and sulfuric aromas make up the nose of this fresh but limited SB. Herbal, peppery green-fruit flavors are lean and finish with notes of rosemary and other green herbs.
Vegetal on first blush, with aromas of green bean and asparagus. The green character becomes less obvious with time, but there's still a bell pepper element to the palate, which offers mildly stewy flavors. Finishes bland, and as a whole it's not exactly cutting the mustard.
Vegetal, green flavors appear on a wine that doesn't balance the fruit and structure. Considering its age, it needs to be drunk now.
Vegetal, unripe flavors mar this Pinot's otherwise attractively silky texture and raspberry fruit. Drink now.
Vegetal, with a green bell pepper aroma and taste. What fruit there is veers toward currants, and the mouthfeel is soft.
Vegetal, with an asparagus edge to the citrus fruit flavors. That mars this otherwise clean, dry and zesty Chardonnay.
Veins of crushed slate and spice lend complexity to this spine-tingling wine. Fresh, sweet tangerine and stone-fruit flavors are concentrated yet pristine, bolstered by streaks of lemon and grapefruit acidity. The finish meanders long, nuanced by hints of bramble and earth.
Veins of smoke and nuts lend savoriness to the bouquet of this dry, full-bodied Chardonnay. It's rich, round and easy on the palate, balancing pressed apple and pear flavors with a fresh zest of lemon on the finish.
Veins of smoke and petrol thread through layers of pressed apple, pear and tangerine in this sprightly semi-dry Riesling. It's a delicately concentrated wine but bolstered by crisp lemon acidity and touches of bramble and spice. Drink now through 2019.
Veins of smoke and wax seep through fresh apple, lemon and lime in this refreshingly spry Riesling. Medium-sweet in style, it balances crisp citrus flavors against a savory, earthier side of brambles and dried herb. The finish lingers moderately long.
Veins of sweet cinnamon and chocolate run through the body of this thick, concentrated wine. Exceedingly soft and supple, it has penetrating endnotes of cherry preserves, blackberry pie and Middle Eastern spice.
Velázquez's most successful and consistent effort is this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. It's crusty and dark on the nose, with magnanimous baked-fruit, earth and berry aromas. The feel is just right and the wine shows few, if any, faults or breaks. Overall it's pure and fades away with rich, dark flavors and velvety tannins. A New World red wine that's sure to please. 350 cases made.
Veltlinsky is among the very first of the fruity Grüners that swept through our wine shops. It is as crisp and green as the grape should be, with apples and pepper laced together in a bright, light harmony. Screwcap.
Velvety-smooth and rich in red plum and strawberry, this medium-bodied, varietally honest wine is textured and complex. It's well-crafted and balanced, with a lingering finish.
Velvety-smooth in texture, with well-articulated blackberry jam, cherry, cassis and melted dark chocolate flavors, this Zin is a little too dessert-like and Porty for my palate. But lots of people will love this richly superripe style.
Velvety and brooding, this vineyard-designate is complex and well structured, memorable in its combination of savory earth, black tea and cranberry-rhubarb. It has a dense body and concentrated texture, which present as voluptuous on the palate.
Velvety and dense, this vineyard designate from a cool appellation is floral and herbal as well as freshly celebratory in wild strawberry. A leathery texture finds balance and life in prickly acidity.
Velvety and plush on the palate, this classic Cabernet offers firm, youthful tannins and full-bodied concentration of dense black fruit. Cedar, dried herb and tobacco scents frame its core, broadcasting a burning intensity and sanguine chewiness. Cellar and enjoy best 2023–2033.
Velvety and rich aromas of chocolate and dried plums are cut with a citrus tartness on the nose of this single-vineyard expression from a historic site near the Gilroy Golf Course. The refreshing if slightly reductive palate offers flavors of espresso and blueberry-crusted beef, enlivening the tongue before washing away.
Velvety and showing a bite of oak, this wine blends grapes from Spring Hill Vineyard and Nobles Vineyard, with a small addition from Horseshoe Bend, a coastal site that contributes earthy salinity. Bright red fruit is layered and succulent, with an underlying richness that contrasts against the sizzling acidity.
Velvety and thick, this wine is tannic, oaky and still tenacious about its youth. Spicy cardamom, violet and dried herb notes make it more earthy than fruit-driven, begging for complementary fare at the table. Raspberry, black cherry and blackberry flavors vie for attention.
Velvety aromas of blackberry-spearmint chiffon greet the nose on this wondrous bottling from the Mainini Vineyard. The wine's mouthfeel is sexy, luxurious, soft and supple, with unctuous yet not overbearing flavors of dark chocolate, plum, black pepper, truffle and shaved licorice.
Velvety aromas of ripe fruit, dried herb and cured meat give this Alicante a savory, spicy feel. The wine delivers medium body and intensity and would pair with meatloaf or white meat.
Velvety blueberry and blackberry notes highlight the moderate structure of this blend of 35% Grenache and 32% Syrah with smaller amounts of Petite Sirah, Carignane and Counoise. Lightly spiced with nutmeg and white pepper, it's balanced and food-friendly, with a soft, round texture.
Velvety chocolate and dark plum flavors give this wine a smooth, satisfying mouthfeel, assisted by well-integrated oak. Dark and brooding, it reflects its hillside provenance without succumbing entirely to an overripe or overdone style.
Velvety in texture, this is a concentrated yet finely wrought expression of modern-style Châteauneuf-du-Pape, matured in oak. Cherry and leather notes slide toward chocolate and espresso on the long, richly textured finish. Drink now–2025.
Velvety on the palate, this coastal wine from a site three miles from the Pacific Ocean shows cool-climate savory tones of cranberry, rose petal and pine, with streaks of black licorice adding to the complex range of flavor. Integrated and lushly elegant, it finishes in a strong touch of cardamom.
Velvety on the palate, this is a rich, unctuous wine, showy in full-bodied waves of baked cherry, tar and minty earth. With a substantial weight, it will appeal to fans of a bigger style while retaining plenty of varietal character.
Velvety smooth and big-boned, this wine shows crisp red fruit wrapped in tart acidity and subtle oak. Bay laurel, spearmint and green tea add savory complexity.
Velvety smooth and lengthy on the palate, this 100% varietal, estate-grown wine from an appellation known for power and robust flavor reveals a depth of black licorice, clove and plum amidst a richness of peppery meat, which would also suggest a fine pairing. Part of its beauty is the abundance of violet aromas on the nose.
Velvety smooth, and brimming with ripe berry flavors, this wine feels broad and rich on the palate, carrying flavors like black plums and boysenberry jam. So ripe it's almost sweet, the wine is nothing if not generous and fruity. A 7% addition of Port-style sweet wine gives it that extra dimension.
Velvety smooth, this estate-driven wine is soft, with a backbone of integrated oak, seasoned in pleasing handfuls of clove and black cherry. Juicy on the palate, and well structured, it finishes brisk in acidity and a note of mocha.
Velvety smooth, this wine seduces from the get-go, robust in black fruit, tea and delicate offerings of rose petal and lavender. Intensely full bodied, it retains a balance of bright, natural acidity that tames the spicy tannin.
Velvety tannins underlie a concentrated body of menthol, peppercorn, cedar and blackberry, punctuated in coffee along the way. An estate-bottling from one of the appellation's longstanding resident wineries, this wine is bold and brawny.
Velvety texture underlies dusty tannins and neutral oak in this light and lean wine from a vineyard in the heart of Pinot Noir country. Vanilla and cherry play off each other nicely, finding equal partnership with a buoyant acidity.
Velvety textured and full in weight with moderate tannic presence, this wine is powerful while remaining immediately approachable. Black cherry, blueberry, menthol and iris aromas lead into the palate of stewed red berries, pepper and eucalyptus leaves. A lingering finish of muted thin mint closes beautifully.
Velvety thick with black fruit and pepper notes, this wine is firm with tense, fully structured tannin—a powerful backbone that contributes complexity and concentration.
Velvety, lush and bright, this wine celebrates a warm, wonderful vintage in its exuberance of clove, currant and chocolate-covered cherry, yet the acidity is focused and tense. Lengthy and built to last, the rounded palate is seasoned in black pepper.
Velvety, rich and intense upon first sip, this is a lively, well-built wine, held back in bottle and offering layers of blackberry, black cherry, anise and sage flavor. Fruity and feral, it delivers a lot of nuance within its powerful presentation.
Velvety, robust structure makes way for a textured, complex personality of baked plum, rhubarb and cola spice. That spice continues in lengthy spikes of clove and cinnamon, providing a warmth that complements and accents the concentration.
Velvety, with a touch of grit, this wine is tart and tangy in acidity, with a firmness of structure and tannin. The boldly interwoven flavors are defined by wild strawberry, cranberry and black tea.
Vento Forte (“strong wind”) sees a year of oak aging to render a smooth, rich feel in the mouth. A pure expression of Vermentino, the wine is redolent of peach, candied lemon and almond blossom.
Ventoso (“windy”) shows easy fruit aromas of cherry and blackberry, with notes of cured meat and tobacco. Nothing on the bouquet is overdone by any stretch, but the wine does offer a nice, easygoing informality for pizza or pasta dinners.
Venturing into the orange side of the rosé color rainbow, this Mourvèdre-based wine—with 13% Grenache—brings melon, guava, pomelo and ripening banana to the nose, followed by papaya and watermelon once sipped. It's a revealing look at the potential of the overlooked Central Coast vineyards that winemaker Ian Brand diligently seeks out, both for his personal labels and the many for which he consults.
Veramar's Estate Club Viognier has a high-toned apple scent. Fat and full bodied with lots of rich cream, butter and apple cider notes, it's fairly low in acid, but high in alcohol, contributing to a finish that feels a bit dense and hot.
Veramonte's first high-end Ritual Sauvignon is a big success. The nose is mellow, refined and minerally as opposed to pungent and feline. The feel is fresh, clean as a razor, and easygoing, with lime, nectarine and passion fruit flavors. Long and lightly green on the classy finish.
Veramonte is one of the early proponents of Casablanca, and this wine sings a pretty tune. The bouquet offers apple, melon, pear and a kiss of solid oak, while the palate shows vanilla along with soft pear and apple flavors. Balanced and a touch sweet, but not too oaky or resiny. Imported by Huneeus Vintners, LLC.
Veramonte knows how to capture the pungent, alert character inherent to Sauvignon Blanc. This is a peppy wine with spiky tropical and green-fruit aromas and flavors. It's a mash up of citrus and nettles, with a controlled, fairly long grapefruit-driven finish. Modest in price, but the realthing.
Verbatim offers a compelling mix of juicy citrus flavors from the potent acidity, along with tangy strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. The components are balanced and the flavors pure and well integrated. The length and balance suggest that this should drink well at least through 2022.
Verdelho and Sauvignon Blanc hangs together easily on this herb-dominant wine. The texture has a creamy character, showing green fruits, lively acidity and a bright orange-zest aftertaste.
Verdelho is one of those new varieties imported from old Europe that's providing a badly needed shot in the arm for California, namely, the need for crisply acidic, dry whites. It's a zesty, refreshing wine, with lemon-honey, peach and vanilla flavors.
Verdicchio is celebrated for its crisp, green aromas that resemble lime, kiwi and cut grass. This expression offers those notes, with an added touch of lemon candy.
Verduzzo is a very interesting grape that tends to exude oxidized aromas of candied fruit, butterscotch and carmel. But when made well, as in the case of this selection, it offers power, concentration and natural richness as well.
Verging on orange in color, this intensely botrytized wine from one of Germany's unique grape varieties is thick, almost chewy with extract and sugar. Dried apricot aromas lead into orange marmalade flavors with an almost burnt, caramelized quality. Finishes long, with a hint of bitterness that helps balance some of the intense sweetness.
Vermentino from southern Tuscany achieves a special richness and density that is well suited to the variety. This expression is smooth and creamy with some acidity on the close and lingering flavors of peach and honey.
Vermentino has been making great strides lately in Italy and demonstrates a keen ability to pair with our favorite Mediterranean dishes. This oak-driven expression shows exotic fruit, candied lemon and toasted almond.
Vermentino is a Mediterranean variety rarely found in California. Gianelli has done a good job. The wine is crisp, with zesty flavors of limes, oranges, vanilla and honeysuckle flowers.
Vermentino is a native grape of Italy that offers fresh tones of chopped basil, lime and stone fruit. This expression is no exception and the wine is well suited for light lunches of pasta or chicken salad.
Vermentino is a very attractive grape that produces crisp and clean white wines that are redolent of kiwi, cut grass, citrus and peach. This luminous wine has all those qualities plus a crisp, fresh finish.
Vermentino is one of the latest hits from a long list of successful Italian white wines. Crisp, clean and definitely marked by a green or herbal note, the wine feels zesty and sharp on the palate. A dusting of crushed white pepper makes for a very nice endnote.
Vermentino makes a great companion to sushi, Mediterranean fish dishes, light pasta salad or chicken salad. There's a zesty touch of fresh sage or rosemary on the nose followed by peach, citrus and melon aromas.
Vernaccia Rondolino opens with fragrant aromas of citrus, green apple and passion fruit. The mouthfeel is lean and compact, but there's a nice touch of zesty freshness on the close.
Vernaccia strives to demonstrate its aging ability in this slightly oxidized, oak-fermented white that is redolent of stone fruit, mature melon, almond and pine sap. It's an interesting wine with depth, dimension and loads of personality (albeit a style that not everyone will appreciate).
Vernaccia takes a subdued approach and delivers clean aromas of grapefruit, pear and honey that are distinctive yet not very intense. It's very lean and compact in the mouth but ends with clean acidity.
Versace is a smooth but easy Sicilian Nero d'Avola with ripe fruit and loads of dark, sun-ripened concentration. The mouthfeel is soft, round and chewy.
Vert de l'Or is a play on words for Verdelho, grown in Anjou since 1810. It is a richly textured wine, ripe with apple, but with a spicy, steely character. Black currants linger in the background of this dry, fragrant wine. Screwcap.
Verve continues to rock with their new Syrah. Fire up the barbie with steak or pork chops to eat with this lusty, full-bodied red wine. It's dry and tannic, with rich, complex flavors of blackberries, black currants, pepper and a sweet, salty meaty note, like the char on a broiled steak.
Very acidic, almost sour, which gives the citrus fruit flavors a lemondrop throat lozenge taste. Sure does get the tastebuds whistling.
Very acidic, giving the ripe tropical fruit and green pea flavors an almost sparkling spritziness. But very rich and flamboyant and complex. This wine was tasted at just about a year of age, and should calm down by summer 2012.
Very appealing aromas of warm strawberry-cherry pie, red licorice and red rose promise ripe juiciness in this nearly equal blend of Syrah and Mourvèdre. The palate delivers with cherry cola, and the wine almost seems sweet, yet is bone dry, with nice grippy tannins as well.
Very appetizing in a lean style, this light- to medium-bodied wine from a little-known part of Northern California shows dried herb and cranberry aromas, good crisp fruit flavors, medium body and a grippy texture that encourages another sip.
Very appley wine, with high acidity and crispness. It's a well-made bottle-fermented wine, with a good steel and mineral edge.
Very approachable and easygoing aromatics invite the nose with salted lime, yellow apples and buttery strudel scents. The palate is equally smooth and tasty, with warm apple and lemon-brioche flavors and a creamy mouthfeel. This is a full-body take on the grape rather than lean and grassy.
Very approachable and inviting, L'Aspetto (Sangiovese and Canaiolo) is a bold and dense wine with a dark ruby color and velvety tones that sit heavy on the tongue. Its aromas include black cherry, dried currant, pressed rose petal, Spanish cedar and exotic spice.
Very aromatic clouds of pear and mirabelle dominate the appetizing nose. The palate has the same freshness and fruity flow, especially of more yellow plum and a spicy hint of grapefruit zest. There is something fluid that suggests ease and joy. The spicy fruit flavors linger long on this gentle but refreshing, rounded white.
Very aromatic for Merlot, with ripe, sugary blackberry and black- cherry aromas. Tastes deeply fruity and sweet, with plenty of berry flavor and a kiss of oak. Not especially complex, but the ripe sweetness and purity make it a very likable wine. Contains 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Very aromatic, gentle, almost floral notes of Cox's Orange Pippin appear with the first whiff. They get their full due on the off-dry palate which boosts the fruit flavors and paints them in a golden light. There is grip and backbone and ample fruit. Drink while the fruit is at its height: 2016–2018. Finishes off dry.
Very aromatic, showing a complex nose of cherry, spice, smoked and raw meat, and tobacco. The flavors are copious, too, with strong black cherry, licorice and tobacco elements. Balance and structure are beautiful here, and the coffee-chocolate finish has very good length, showing spice and blueberry accents. Lovely already, it will be better in four years and will drink well to 2010.
Very aromatic, this has flavors of lychee and lemon. It has a spicy feel to it, giving it a soft, rounded texture. Ready to drink.
Very aromatic, this ripe, full-bodied wine is still young—full of spice, exotic fruits and only a touch of acidity. With a density that can only come from a Grand Cru vineyard, this powerful wine needs to age. Drink from 2017.
Very aromatic, to the point of being flowery. The palate is sweet and dense, with a heavy, round mouthfeel and candied mango, melon and applesauce flavors. Finishes just pure enough, with weight and pith entering the fray. Don't wait long to drink.
Very aromatic, with an elusive note of violets that adds to the attractions of the blackberries, briary wild cherries, licorice and black pepper. Full bodied and dry, this Zin is charmingly sweet in fruit and brown butter on the finish.
Very attractive aromas of Chinese spices, rose petal and lychees lead to a slightly watery palate with spiced orange notes. The short finish would benefit from a bit more acidity. Good beach sipper.
Very Beaujolais-like, and still showing a bit of spritz in the mouthfeel, this offers pretty cherry fruit in a fun, forward, clean and simple style. Note the low alcohol.
Very beautiful red wine. Not too many Cab Francs are coming off this mountain. It's lighter in body, and more cherried, than your standard Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, but shows the same tough tannins. Yet it's not an ager. Drink now–2010, with steak or lamb, and decant.
Very berry, with sour candy scents and cooked red fruit flavors floating over a base of seasoned leather. Juicy, medium finish. Drink up.
Very big and rich and extracted, offering massive flavors of cherries and raspberries, enriched with caramelized oak. Very delicious, if a little obvious. Pinot Noirs from this stretch of the southern Santa Rita Hills tend to age well, gaining earthy complexities over the years. This one could hang in there for a long time.
Very big and smoky, an impressive young Merlot that grabs you by the collar and shakes you. Made by the veteran Robert Foley, it's in his style, a ripe, powerful wine exuding massive flavors of black cherries, cassis and chocolate.
Very big, modern, sweet and oaky. And that doesn't mean it's bad, because the richness, high alcohol (15%), buttery barrel notes and candy-like qualities are all rendered well. Still, be on the watch for creamy oak, cinnamon, café mocha and butter more than precise, angular fruit character. Should get more integrated with another year of bottle age. The boisterous blend is Garnacha, Syrah and Mazuelo.
Very big, very dry and powerful, a Pinot that explodes with lush cherry jam, red currant, chocolate and spice flavors wrapped into a tannic and frankly acidic young wine. If you pop the cork now, give it a good decant.
Very big, very rich, almost a fruit store in itself. Offers a wild ride of intensely ripe, extracted cherries, currants, blackberries and blueberries that taste like jam spread on buttery toast, then sprinkled with cinnamon and cocoa. Also fairly tannic and full-bodied. Lacks some delicacy, but delicious and dramatic.
Very black and dense, a super-young wine that shows pedigree and promise for development. Impresses for its fine structure of thick tannins and acidity, and the way the lush black currant and chocolate fruit meets the toasty oak. Good now, and should improve for up to four or five years, at least.
Very bright and acidic, with the savory taste of a sour lemondrop candy. If you're sensitive to acidity you'll find it tart. But it's deliciously layered, with tiers of buttered toast, vanilla and spice.
Very bright and pure, with high acid that makes the wine clean and vibrant all the way through the finish, this Viognier bursts with tropical fruits, limes, wildflowers, honey and vanilla bean. Really easy to drink with a wide range of fare.
Very broad but also complete and elegant aromas show on this bottling, including Asian pear, yellow apple, Meyer lemon, wet stone and a touch of browned butter. The mouthfeel is very tense though not overly sharp in acidity, with lemon and key lime citrus. That tension holds deep into the sip.
Very buttery aromas lead to a wine that is ripe, rounded and full in the mouth. The acidity is masked by the richness, leaving apricot rather than citrus as the dominant character.
Very Chablis-like, this coastal Chardonnay has high acidity that makes it clean and vibrant. The flavors are marked by minerals and Meyer lemons, with a touch of smoky oak. It's a fine, dry white wine that will pair well with a wide range of foods, and it's from Francis Ford Coppola.
Very characteristic of the 2008 vintage, this young Brunello opens with soft and round aromas of cherry and blackberry backed by delicate tones of spice and tobacco. Once the wine hits the palate, you will feel that bright acidity that is so typical of Sangiovese Grosso.
Very characteristic of the variety, with perfumes of white flower, citrus, lemon soda and drying mineral tones. The wine offers intensity and precision with focused attention on acidity and citric freshness. Try with fried wontons or eggrolls.
Very citrusy aromas of fresh squeezed lemons grow rounder with pear and nectarine flesh, all cut by a white rock minerality, without many of the typical grassy notes. The palate is very tight with lime juice and green apples, and driven by chalky grip and vibrant acidity.
Very classic in style, it has firm tannins that come before black currant fruits. Its structure is dry, lightly smoky from wood aging and with a crisper fruit character underneath. The tannins need to soften before the wine can be drunk with pleasure, so wait until 2017.
Very clean and clear, and even though it's a 2009 it is still holding onto its core freshness and character. White fruits and flower blossoms work the nose, and the palate is now fully mature, elegant and smooth. Flavors of peach, melon and kiwi are clean and tasty. Albariño at its best.
Very clean, compact and fresh, here is a Soave to pair with take-away Chinese food. The wine is acidic and light with subtle aromas of peach, citrus and white flower.
Very clean, smooth and inviting. Every piece is in place, and the wine flows from nose to palate to finish with ease and comfort. Flavors of black cherry, cassis and blackberry are creamy and deep, with a hint of vanilla sweetness and oak. Warm and chewy as well. Cabernet Sauvignon with 12% Cab Franc; drink now.
Very clear in the glass, this bottling from the Wrath team shows honeydew, passionfruit, pine needle and a hint of wood on the nose. The flavors are straightforward, with green-apple flesh and a hint of more passionfruit.
Very closed and tight, this is still a young wine. Its fruitiness, with citrus and pear flavors, is just beginning to develop into something that's rich and full-bodied. With its steely structure and taught acidity, it shouldn't be drunk before 2016.
Very cohesive aromas of blueberry and black currant meet with deep violet, lilac and brioche aromas on this bottling of the relatively rare grape from Southwest France. A well-woven tapestry of blueberry mousse, cola spice, root beer, dried ginger and clove dust make for layers and layers of thick and impressive flavor.
Very concentrated and closed up, like a coil. The intense green fruit is followed by plum skins. Crispness, dry but fresh, comes alongside a powerful explosion of flavors.
Very concentrated aromas of kirsch, dried berries, chocolate and spice cake show on the nose of this bottling that is bolstered by 10% Petite Sirah. That density extends to the palate, where treacly black-cherry-syrup flavors mix with baking spice.
Very concentrated notes of zesty grapefruit peel mingle with punchy, peppery watercress on a rather concentrated palate. Freshly ground pepper intriguingly pops up here and there. This is a weighty wine that definitely belongs on the table.
Very concentrated purple flowers aromas of violet and lavender are tough to crack at this early age, with pressed olallieberry, menthol and a forest floor tartness on the nose as well. The palate is quite tight, with espresso, underripe elderberry and plum-skin flavors, but the incredible energy and slight gamy character keeps it quite intriguing.
Very consistent in style with previous vintages, this textural, lemony, racy Riesling seems bone dry, though it is noted as having 1% residual sugar. Along with rich flavors of grapefruit and citrus, there are nectarine and pear fruit highlights and a sharp minerality.
Very creamy and buttery, this Ribolla Gialla offers aromas of butterscotch, crème caramel and vanilla bean. It's a sophisticated and opulent wine with depth and richness. Pair it with lobster bisque or crab cakes.
Very creamy and rich, this is a truly beautiful rendition of Chardonnay. It shows intense layers of apricot, vanilla, lemon zest, honeysuckle and exotic fruit. It lingers long on the palate and imparts dense fruit flavors that are followed by fresh acidity.
Very creamy mousse leads to a tight wine with raspberry flavors and considerable acidity. That makes the wine very fresh, crisp, clean with an attractive final fragrance. It's ready to drink but could have a few months' bottle age.
Very crisp and fresh, this is a product of the relatively cool conditions of 2007. It is a lively, green and white fruit-flavored wine, all tense structure and perfumed acidity with a layer of concentration.
Very crisp and fresh, this young wine has tight acidity as well as touches of yellow fruits. It is a fruity wine that needs to soften over the next few months. Drink from 2016
Very crisp and fruity, this is a light, bright and refreshing wine, with a tangy edge that gives texture. Apples and a strong citrus character promise a wine that will round out over the next few months. Drink from late 2015.
Very crisp and packed with fruit, this is an attractive, lightly mineral wine. It is fresh, full of green apples and lime, with a juicy apricot aftertaste. Drink now.
Very crisp and slightly sweet, this simple, everyday Chardonnay has jammy flavors of pineapples, apples and lemon tarts. Pretty good for the price.
Very crisp and very fresh, this thrives on its bright sliced apple flavors. A tight texture gives a lemon tang. It's still young and should be given until late 2015.
Very crisp apples and lime juice fit well together in this fruity sparkling wine. It has plenty of acidity, of course, balanced with a mineral texture and a light hint of spice.
Very crisp fruit, with light acidity and a taut character. A lively wine, bright and vivacious, packed with citrus. Screwcap.
Very crisp while also creamy, the wine has sliced apple acidity with a mineral, tight texture and a lemon aftertaste. It's young and fruity, fresh with a lively mousse. Because it is dry, it will be better with food.
Very crisp, and loaded with tart green apples and lemons, this would be an ideal match for light fish or shellfish dishes. This is what unadulterated cool-climate Chardonnay tastes like.
Very crisp, clean and polished, this is an easy white wine to enjoy with friends and grilled fish. It's redolent of cut grass, citrus, peach and white almond.
Very crisp, refreshing and nicely dry, this light copper-colored wine surrounds a core of fresh raspberry flavors with light spicy nuances and a texture that turns vibrant bubbles into a creamy sensation on the finish.
Very crisp, this young, fruity wine has intense apple and citrus acidity over its bitter almond character and light mousse. It needs a few months of bottle aging to soften the acidity.
Very crisp, very lean, and very lively, this wine is driven by great fruit acidity and has a refreshing lip-smacking blend of tart apple, lemon and grapefruit flavors. It will be an attention-getting drink before dinner.
Very dark-purple fruit meet with crushed black rocks, dense purple flowers and roasted beef on the nose of this lush and delicious bottling, which is bolstered by bits of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec. Soft black cherry, caramel and vanilla flavors coat the palate, with slate, cocoa, espresso bean and graham cracker touches.
Very dark and charred, but at the same time it smells like a fudge milkshake mixed with espresso. It's plump but loose in structure, with generic black-fruit flavors and strange acidic kick.
Very dark and concentrated, this is a powerfully rich wine. Full of juicy black fruits that give a brooding quality, it's still waiting to spring to life. A selection of the best barrels, this opulent and long-lived release will be ready to drink from 2018.
Very dark and dense in the glass, this blend of 74% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre and 11% Grenache by winemaker Steve Martell shows blackberry syrup, black cassis and touches of caramel and molasses on the nose. Dark and tarry flavors of lavender-laced black plum and elderberry show on the palate, where a finely tuned tannic structure also presents leather and tobacco notes.
Very dark and dramatic, this delicious wine combines great balance with power. It has exotic fruit flavors and a light spiciness. The smooth, sculpted mouthfeel comes with rich, almost thick tannins that seem to extend the finish. This will find its full potential sometime after 2020.
Very dark and grapey, with raisin, licorice and bite to the bouquet. Saturated and heavy in the mouth, with lemony acidity framing loud, generic black fruit flavors. The finish features ample oak in the form of butter and coconut. A little overripe and oaky, but on the right path.
Very dark and inky in color, this bottling by Matthias Pippig shows baked black plum and black cherry on the nose as well as a dusting of cocoa and elegant forest spices of juniper and pine. More baked plum and rich blueberry show on the palate, but with a considerably earthy edge of black tea, juniper, coffee and dark chocolate.
Very dark and seemingly on the cooked side of the ledger. The nose is black and raisiny, while the core flavors are saucy. At least this meaty, overdone Garnacha isn't oaked, so in that sense it isn't offensive. But it is definitely soft, and without much future.
Very dark in both color and flavor, this single-vineyard Syrah is loaded with smoke, earth, licorice, espresso and cacao notes. There is enough tight, tangy black fruit to create balance in the focused midpalate. A lick of citrus adds lift to the finish.
Very dark in color, dense and thick in the mouth, and tight in astringent tannins. Clearly an immature wine not showing well. The blackberry and cherry flavors are impressive, but the wine seems disjointed. Cellaring is a gamble.
Very dark in color, this is an impressive wine with power and dense tannins. The fruit is solid, packed with blackberry and dark plum flavors, and wild, almost savage, ripeness.
Very dark in color, this jumps out at first because it's showy and high in alcohol, with seemingly sweet overtones that might appeal to lovers of brawny red wine.The oak, green pepper and olive undertones take over on the finish.
Very dark in color, this Picolit from the celebrated Rosazzo cru offers thick and syrupy tones of almond nut, dried apricot, honey and marzipan. It's a ripe and very sweet wine with thick sugary layers in the mouth. The hot 2003 vintage has shaped a mature expression of Picolit.
Very dark in color, this robust wine has enticing wood smoke and oak aromas, rich but dry fruit flavors like blackberry and blueberry, an abundance of muscular tannins in the firm texture and full but not overpowering body. It's very tight to drink now, so best consume it after 2022.
Very dark in the glass, this bottling shows blackberry jam, crushed slate, turned black loam and hot baking spice on the nose. There is prominent structure to the palate, where olallieberry meets with smashed clove, bay leaf, black pepper and vanilla. The acid is seamlessly integrated, so drink 2018–2030.
Very dark in the glass, this drought-hammered bottling (from a yield of just two-thirds of a ton per acre!) shows deep and concentrated black plum, black currant and licorice aromas but retains the wild thyme and dark mint character typical of Central Coast Pinot Noir. The palate combines richness with strong acidity, its concentrated black cherry fruit cut with tart plum skin notes.
Very dark in the glass, this imposing wine shows bacon fat, black cherries, blackberries, allspice and violet-flavored cookies on the lush and layered nose. Once sipped, a silky, luscious mouthfeel conveys blueberry pastry, lavender, black tea and espresso notes, set against a strongly tannic backbone that ensures long aging. Drink 2017–2027.
Very dark in the glass, this inky wine shows aromas of iodine, distilled violets and wound-up black-currant fruit, making the Syrah appear in charge. It's very dense but not especially ripe on the sip, where layered tannins reluctantly reveal elderberry and lilac flavors. Though five years old, it still needs time to unwind.
Very dark in the glass, this is a blend of 86% Syrah and 14% Petit Verdot. Distinct brandy, cognac, cherry cough syrup and chocolate-balsamic reduction sauce notes characterize the nose. The wine coats the mouth with a viscous density and heavy weight, offering deep flavors of blueberry extract, scotch and vanilla extract. It would work as a dessert wine.
Very dark purple in the glass, this bottling shows leathery red cherry, subtle nutmeg and ginger spice, a touch of baked soil and stronger caramel notes on the nose. Rich black cherry meets with vanilla on the palate, which is slathered with a strong simmering acidity that's refreshing although almost too potent.
Very dark though not too viscous in the glass, this bottling of a rarely planted grape originally from Madiran in France shows pressed blackberry, dark chocolate and coffee touches on the nose. The palate balances blueberry and other purple fruits with mocha, black coffee and hoisin hints.
Very dark, dramatic, opulent, but young. Opens with brooding aromas of black currants, cassis and spices, and turns dense in tannins in the mouth. Deeply refined, concentrated, intense, bone dry. A classic Napa wine in every sense, and one in need of extended cellaring. 2012–2018. The release date is Spring 2010.
Very dark, iron-oxide-tinged fruit lures you in. There also is a lot of pepper on the nose. The palate is full of dark crushed fruit: juicy blackberry, aromatic blueberry and red cherry. The tannins are supple and there is lovely freshness to the palate. This is vibrant, juicy, smooth and aromatic. Drink now–2022.
Very dark, rich and dramatic. Massively constructed, with vast reserves of blackberry jam, blackstrap molasses, mocha, smoked meat, mushu plum sauce and sweet, smoky oak. The tannins are big, ripe and astringent. A great Cabernet that clearly needs plenty of time. Drink 2015 and beyond.
Very dark, rich in oak and extracted in fruit, this Cab has enormous flavors of blackberries, black currants and cedar. It's a little sharp in acidity all through the finish, which gives it a sting.
Very dark, structured wine, with coffee as well as fruit flavors. The wood comes through firmly producing a solid, very dry character. The more juicy black currant fruits are still to show well. So wait to drink until 2015.
Very dark, very focused, and very pure, this full-bodied wine polishes the notorious tannins of the varietal just slightly, while pouring on dark chocolate, blackberry jam, white pepper and a touch of floral flavor. It's a great wine to buy and stash in a cool place for a few years to see how interesting Petite Sirah can get. Best after 2024.
Very dark, very rich and nicely dry, this is a concentrated wine with gobs of fruit flavor enhanced by luscious chocolate and coffee notes. The texture is full of fine-grained tannins and the body is full. A lot of the density and texture comes from 53% Petite Sirah.
Very deep black plum, smashed red berries, concentrated cola and coffee liqueur aromas entice the nose on this blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Zinfandel and 20% Grenache. It's very spicy and lively on the palate with an almost biting, explosive acidity. Flavors of espresso and deep red fruits are noticeable.
Very deep color, potent aromas and a dense, but velvety texture paint a bold picture for this full-bodied wine. It has the drama and flavor recalling an expensive red, without overpowering tannins or a high price.
Very deep in color and aromas, this slams you with black fruit, herbs and saucy oak aromas. The palate is stable, with dark prune, fruit cake and acidity giving it an extra burst of life. Finishes with some faux oak flavor, butter, pepper and heat. Imported by Carolina Wine Brands USA, Inc.
Very deep in color and spicy-smoky in flavor, this full-bodied wine is packed with dark-fruit flavors like blackberry and blueberry. Aromas like grilled beef and spicy flavors like cardamom and smoke give it a bold character that's hard to deny.
Very deep purple for a rosé, although still transparent, this could be mistaken for a light red wine. That's also true for the aromas that include cherry pie, cola and a light dusting of clove. There is a tangy tension to the sip, then flavors of baked red cherry, pastry crust and more clove. It's rather delicious, but a tad heavy for a pink wine.
Very deep violet aromas are shrouded in a thick veil of heavy-duty dark fruit as well as woody cedar spice on the nose of this blend of 78% Syrah and 22% Mourvèdre by Orion Stang. The palate is well composed, its solid core of black fruit lifted by vanilla and allspice flavors.
Very deep, lush and welcoming in the nose—there’s an unmistakable heavy color and look to it. It’s a ripe and ready wine that should pick up complexity with bottle age. Yes, there’s a one-dimensionality to it because it’s a single-clone wine, but you should really enjoy the cherry and plum sweetness at its core.
Very deeply flavored, with fine, ripe blackberry, black currant and cedar flavors, anchored with an earthy minerality. The finish is thoroughly dry. Yet it's also a very tannic wine, with a bracing, but fierce, mouthfeel that suggests time in the cellar. Better after 2013.
Very delicious and luscious, but no mere fruit bomb. It has the tannic-acidic structure and dryness to make it refined, but explodes on the palate with blackberry, chocolate, cassis, anise and sweet, smoky cedar flavors that are deep and long. Tastes important and first rate.
Very delicious and savory if a little hot in alcohol, this has flavors of raspberry and cherry jam, buttery pie crust and vanilla that are flecked with red pepper flakes. It's not an ager, but it is an elegant, flashy wine for pairing with tuna, lamb or steak.
Very delicious in flavor, with rich cherries, red currants, cola, caramelized oak, anise, cocoa and pepper, and the texture is as smooth as silk. But curiously soft, showing more elegance than depth. Drink now.
Very delicious in terms of sheer flavor. Floods the mouth with ripe, rich black cherries, black raspberries, milk chocolate, licorice and spicy, oaky vanilla. Could have more structure, though. Drink now.
Very dense and eminently intriguing on the nose, this wine shows aromas of turned earth, black olive, concentrated strawberry and gravel. Sagebrush and tarragon power the tip of the palate, which emerges into dense yet restrained blueberry and black cherry, all presented in a very appealing way.
Very dense and extracted, this wine has bitter chocolate as well as dark plum-skin flavors. It is hard-edged, demanding time to escape the dominating clutches of toasty wood. The firmness continues to the finish.
Very dense and firm, this has powerful tannins as well as a blackberry jam flavor. The wine is complex, full of both dark tannins and the richest fruits, layered with notes of herb, spice and a concentrated structure.
Very dense and layered in grilled cherry, raspberry, cocoa, spice and cola flavors, this full-bodied wine needs rich barbecues and stews to tame its bigtime tannins. The fruit is so ripe, it tastes sweet, but this Zin is actually very dry.
Very dense and tannic, this wine is hiding its fruit behind its firm structure. It is solid, chunky and powerful, with plenty of weight that will always be dry. Needs to age for several years.
Very dense in the mouth and full-bodied, with a dry, soft feeling. Lots of toasty oak, too. Feels somewhat inert, but the delicious cherries, toast and spices make it a pleasant sipper.
Very dense wine, its tannins solid and concentrated. The structure is the leader here, with the young fruit showing through as black plum skins and crushed strawberries. This is a firmly tannic wine, needing aging.
Very dense, this wine has some bitter extract and layers of wood that give it a very firm structure. While there is acidity, the wine also has a dark character that is hard and powerful. It is likely always to be a solid wine. Drink from 2020.
Very dense, very rich, and really too thick in primary fruit flavors to enjoy now. Almost like a blackberry, cassis and chocolate-filled pastry, with the oaky overlay playing the role of sweet, smoky crust, and the alcohol providing heat. Soft, too. Not particularly elegant now, but might age, if you want to roll the dice on this pricey 100% Cab.
Very different from the Bricco delle Viole cru expression from the same producer, this wine offers bold, ripe fruit with lingering tones of red cherry, leather, charcoal and campfire. The fruit is thick and succulent and the finish offers sweet, succulent spice flavors. Multiple U.S. importers.
Very different from this winery's Temperance bottling. Starts with sour cherry aromas along with sumptuous smoke, vanilla and spice notes. Drinks very soft and gentle, with melted tannins framing generous cherry-berry fruit. This is a supple, easy-drinking wine for early consumption.
Very different than the 2005 vintage, Barolo Le Coste from Giacomo Grimaldi opens with a brownish-amber color and ripe berry or candied fruit aromas. There are beautifully fine aromas of tar, asphalt and licorice in the background that help balance it out. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Very distinctive and unique in terms of its aromatic delivery, this beautiful Barbaresco boasts complex layers of licorice, root beer and white cherry that help support a lively vertical lift. A light ruby appearance is followed by tight astringency and crushed black pepper. Pajoré plays the elegance card very well.
Very Douro in its mineral texture and dry core, it also has a surround of ripe black fruits. It's concentrated and has some aging potential, although it can be drunk now.
Very dried fruit aromas of elderberry and raisins meet with potent nutmeg, clove and rustic leather on the nose of this bottling from the Pozo area. Raisins and prunes dominate the palate, with a hint of gingerbread and chocolate cake.
Very dry and a little austere, with suggestions of cherry skins, citrus fruits and spices. The alcohol is nice and low, while the acidity is brisk. A fine, elegant rosé, delicate and easy to drink.
Very dry and crisp in acidity, this is a mouthwatering wine. It has flavors of citrus, gooseberry and lemongrass. Clean and elegant, it's a nice partner with puff pastry appetizers, bruschetta with chevre and grilled veggies.
Very dry and crisply acidic, this wine shows concentrated flavors of lemons and limes, gooseberries, green melons and peppery spices. It's strong in that feline flavor often associated with New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs.
Very dry and delicate, this outstanding-quality, Euro-style wine has a transparent pink color, good crisp acidity, relatively light body, and fresh, charming flavors like pink grapefruit and white peach. Drink it as soon and as often as possible.
Very dry and dusty, this blend of Carricante and Catarratto does a great job of showing the volcanic characteristics of Mt. Etna. There is fruit in the form of citrus, pear and melon, and the wine presents a tangy grapefruit finish, with a pretty mineral nuance as well.
Very dry and earthy, with tobacco, herb and blackberry flavors. Could be richer, but the structure is impeccable, and the wine is elegant. Ready now.
Very dry and elegantly silky, this Pinot, from one of the best vineyards in the valley, brims with cherry, red currant, cola, licorice and peppery spice flavors. Seems at its best now and in the short term.
Very dry and fairly soft, with licorice, cherry, cranberry, cola and oak flavors, it lacks the power and complexity you expect from this great property.
Very dry and fairly tannic, it's severe on first sip and hard to appreciate, although there are some good black cherry, cola, leather, oak and black pepper flavors. It's complex in its own way, and gets better as it breathes in the glass. Give it a good, long decanting, and drink it now through 2018. The blend is Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah and Counoise, in that order.
Very dry and fairly tannic, with cassis flavors, this Cab is quite enjoyable now and should hold for a couple of years. It has an elegance and structural balance that bring to mind the pre-cult era of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Very dry and kind of earthy and herbal. Shows lots of sweet vanilla and oak, but not much fruit. Maybe some pineapples. The poster child for why Napa Valley struggles with Chardonnay.
Very dry and not overly fruity, this medium-bodied wine brings subtle earthy, savory flavors and a firm, straightforward mouthfeel, with a touch of astringency on the finish.
Very dry and pretty tannic, this cool-climate Syrah combines its blackberry and cherry fruit with less ripe notes of herbs and even a touch of asparagus. Intense umami flavors of salty, smoky bacon give it richness. Drink now.
Very dry and quite acidic, this racy Chardonnay has a Chablis-like minerality that suggests chalk and steel. That may come from the grapes that were grown in the far southerly part of the valley. An equal percentage hails from warmer St. Helena, and they seem to have contributed the pears and peaches.
Very dry and raisiny-pruney, a harsh, somewhat bitter wine. The dryness is relieved by some ripely sweet blackberries that show up in the middle palate.
Very dry and rather sharp in acidity, this Syrah offers cherry-berry flavors with a hint of herbs and spices. It turns bitter on the finish. Good price, but could use greater richness.
Very dry and rather sharp in fruit-skin acidity, with a tart bite to the cherries, cola and licorice. A good, rustic wine for drinking now.
Very dry and rather tannic, this Merlot strikes off in interesting directions. Along with the usual cherries and blackberries, it shows an array of dried-crushed herb aromas and flavors, such as thyme and sage. This increases balance and complexity, not to mention the wine's versatility at the table.
Very dry and sharp in the finish, this Syrah has red currant and bitter cherry skin flavors, relieved by softer, richer oak influences. It's tough, but softens in the glass. Really needs a good steak.
Very dry and slightly musty, the fruit tastes lightly of apple and citrus, but the wine already seems to be heading over a cliff. —P.G.
Very dry and steely, this offers crisp acidity plus butter and wood flavors that bring out citrus as well as white peach fruits. With five years aging, it is ready to drink.
Very dry and tannic now, although soft, with ripe flavors of blackberries and black currants that verge on overripe ones of prunes and raisins. This blend of Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon does not seem likely to improve.
Very dry and tannic, a somewhat austere wine. But it has a deep core of blackberries and black currants along with a meatiness, like charred beef off the grill. Interesting and complex, for slow sipping with complex beef, pork and lamb dishes.
Very dry and tannic, a style of Cabernet that relies more on structure than flash. Despite fairly high alcohol, it keeps a tight rein on the blackberries and cedar, locking the flavors in astringency. Needs time. Give it until 2013 and see where it goes.
Very dry and tannic, an austere young Cabernet that offering much relief now. You'll find a very rich, concentrated core of blackberries and minerals, brightened by a scour of fine, clean acidity. The odds are heavily in favor of this wine aging well for a decade.
Very dry and tannic, as Petite Sirah should be. But unlike many “Pets,” it's also balanced and elegant. The official alcohol is only 13.5%, yet there's not a trace of greenness. In fact, the wine, which has plenty of French oak, is quite rich in blackberry and black currant flavors. Really a superb example, a Petite Sirah for Cabernet fans. Should evolve interestingly for many years.
Very dry and tannic, this has interesting suggestions of cherry, rose petal, red currant and mineral, all kissed by oak. It's light in body, like a Pinot Noir, but with some real complexity. Drink now.
Very dry and tannic, this Malbec has an unrelieved toughness in the mouth, despite some good cherry flavors. The texture is just too hard, and shows some bitterness in the finish. Drink now.
Very dry and tannic. Treads the line between elegant and boring. Some good cherry and blackberry flavors erupt midpalate, but it's really a fairly lean, earthy Cabernet. The score reflects where it could end up in, say, eight years.
Very dry and tannicly tart, with blackberry, currant and pepper flavors touched with oak. This is a good, everyday wine to drink with rich meat dishes and cheeses.
Very dry and tart, with pear, lemon and lime, green apple and oaky vanilla flavors that finish with crisp Russian River acidity. Has a touch of pyrazine sourness that detracts.
Very dry and very crisp, with lime, lemongrass and mineral flavors. Considerable new French oak brings creamier notes, while 15% Viognier in the blend adds an exotic tang. It impresses for dry, zesty elegance. An interesting wine, and one to watch in future vintages.
Very dry and with too much wood, this is an attenuated wine with a hard facade. It doesn't offer enough fruit for the future.
Very dry at the start, this opens up well to give a rich and fruity wine. The tannins are still powerful and show that the wine needs to age. With licorice and smoky flavors, the wood element is still very present. Drink from 2018.
Very dry in style, this is a beautifully crisp, tight and taut Champagne. It has citrus and green apple flavors, and is steely in character while also fruity. It could do well with some more bottle age.
Very dry, a lean, austere Chardonnay currently marked by aloof flavors of lemons, limes and oak. Yet there's something going on. As the wine warms in the glass it becomes richer, showing hidden pineapple tart, macadamia and crème brûlée. Firm, minerally acidity is there throughout, making for a mouthwatering cleanliness. Drink this streamlined, Chablis-like wine now–2013.
Very dry, acidic and minerally, this is not one of those lush, decadent Chardonnays. It shows controlled flavors of citrus fruits, pears, wet stones and spices. The malolactic fermentation was prevented, giving it tangy acidity. Give it a try with shellfish and roast salmon.
Very dry, crisp and elegantly structured, this Pinot Noir can be had at a pretty good price. It has modest flavors of cherries, tobacco and spices, but is a little unripe, with hints of green tomato and white pepper.
Very dry, crisp and minerally, a subtle wine with some bottle age that shows real complexity and finesse. Not for fruit-forward fans, its pineapple, pear and herb flavors are drying out, leading to interesting, old-wine, honey-and-cashew nuances. Drink right away, before it dies.
Very dry, crisp and minerally, with subtle citrus fruit and floral flavors, this Chardonnay suggests Chablis as its model. The elegant structure is likeable. If you're a fan of big fruit, it's not for you, but it's quite a classy Chardonnay. Good with cracked crab with drawn butter and buttered sourdough bread.
Very dry, crisp, grapefruit and green apple flavors pile through this wine. There is some spice, hints of kiwi and a layer of apple skin tannins. All these intense flavors explode from the glass.
Very dry, crisp, taut and mineral, a tense wine with a streak of green berries and almost achingly fresh acidity. This is certainly a food style of Riesling, too dry for aperitif. Screwcap.
Very dry, high in acidity, and not particularly charming now in its youth, although there is a certain nobility. Has a tough, hard mouthfeel, with suggestions of ripe red cherries. An ager? Hard to tell. Give it until 2011, then try again.
Very dry, tannic and acidic, in the manner of Barbera, a wine that's not offering much charm now. Fans of the variety will like its unrelieved austerity. The flavors of are blackberries and espresso.
Very dry, tannic and full-bodied, with somewhat underripe tobacco, pepper and herb flavors behind the blackberries. More like a minor Zinfandel than a Syrah. The toughness and grittiness need softening meats and cheeses for balance.
Very dry, tart and brittle, this Pinot, from a famous old vineyard that pioneered the Napa side of Carneros, isn't very lush right now. The cherryskin flavors are more bitter and tannic than you expect from most Pinot Noirs. Really needs lamb, steak or similar rich fare to wake it up.
Very dry, tart and earthy, this is a solid Chardonnay to drink now, at a fair price. It has everyday flavors of peaches and green apples.
Very dry, tart and silky, this is a great Williams Selyem Pinot to drink now. It shows the classic elegance of the appellation, with nuanced flavors of raspberries, cherries, red currants, cloves, anise and pepper.
Very dry, tartly acidic and lemony, almost like a Sauvignon Blanc, but with richer notes of pineapple cream. Super-drinkable, and the low alcohol won't overpower a delicate dish, like sole in a garlicky butter sauce.
Very dry, the fruit losing some freshness with the wood aging. However the structure is firm and dark. With the acidity, this could be a wine for aging over 1–2 years.
Very dry, this has almost no dosage, but it delivers great fruitiness, a crisp and steely structure and lively acidity. Red fruits dominate this fresh and lively wine that is ready to drink.
Very dry, this is a crisp, steely and structured wine, a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that still tastes young. A blend made from nine different villages, it is so fresh and fruity with its white and citrus fruits, sliced apples and lemon juice. A zesty character at the back gives it a lively aftertaste.
Very dry, this is all about dark tannins initially, appropriate for the Tannat grape of Madiran. But even from cool 2002, there are good black fruits pushing through those tannins, giving juice, as well as more exotic nutmeg flavors. Age for 4–5 years.
Very dry, this wine is firmly tannic, with the potential for great swathes of juicy fruitiness. It's currently developing beyond its youthful dryness and just beginning to reveal black-currant fruit. Give it another 2–3 years.
Very dry, very tannic and austere, this southern Rhône-style blend isn't offering much now beyond the astringency. Airing coaxes out some modest cherry, Dr. Pepper cola and leather flavors, but it will always remain a tough, harsh wine.
Very dry, with mouth-watering acidity, but the palate also searches for a little more fruit than the wine offers. Still, the pineapples, peaches and apricots are pleasant enough.
Very dry, with tough, astringent tannins, this wine may develop with some years in the cellar. It has a good heart of cassis. If you drink it now, give it serious decanting.
Very earthy notes precede a subdued nose of citrus zest. These tart but expressive notes open up a little more on the palate where they are joined by a rounded, if crunchy structure. There is ample freshness here but also an earthy and (for now) citrus-fruited generosity. The finish reverts to stony, earthy cleanness. This is intriguing and needs time to unfold its fruit and unusual texture. Drink 2020–2030
Very easy-to-like aromas of honeysuckle, jasmine and green tea ice cream show on the nose of this bright and vivacious wine by Dave Potter, one of the forefathers in the evolution of Santa Barbara's Funk Zone neighborhood. A powerful grip grabs hold of the palate, making for a very racy and chalky experience with lots of length, carrying more green-fruit and tea flavors.
Very easy and fresh, this is the kind of Prosecco to drink at a summer poolside party. Citrus, talc powder and peach appear on the bouquet and this sparkler is lean and fresh on the finish.
Very easy and fresh, this offers a quick succession of grapefruit, apricot and lemongrass aromas. It's a simple wine that should taste great with summer salads.
Very easy, slightly confected cherry fruit comes immediately to the fore. The palate has the same candy-ish notion countered with lots of freshness. The body is light, translucent and off dry. Drink soon while berryish aromas are at their peak.
Very elegant, it opens with refined aromas of rose petals, lychee and a hint of juicy citrus fruit. The full-bodied palate delivers ripe pink grapefruit and steely mineral notes accented with a spicy note of white pepper.
Very elegant, very classy, this wine shows, discreetly, its sweet juicy fruit, great ripe black currant flavor and fine tannins. Nothing is overstated; this is for lovers of stylish wines.
Very enticing but ever so ethereal notes of tropical fruit are hinted at: yellow and pink grapefruit, passion fruit and even some pineapple. The palate is still in thrall to all the primary citrus notes but holds promise of stone and riper fruit. This is taut, elegant, concentrated, dry and whistle-clean. Like a superlative sports car waiting to be sped around a race track. This spells raciness, subtle power and linearity. What a super-clean finish. Drink 2020–2035.
Very extracted and ripe, this wine's voluptuous cherry, currant, licorice and spice flavors are compromised by excessive softness. Doesn't show much complexity beyond the fruit, so drink now.
Very faint notes of mandarine and earth emanate from this delicate, closed wine. All the flavors are subdued and delicate with flinty smoke making an appearance here and there. All of this suggests that this is far too young to be approached: the structure, however, suggests delicacy and balance, tender flavors of linearity and precision. Smoke and salt characterize the long finish. Drink 2019–2035.
Very faint notes of red berry are supported by floral overtones on the nose. The palate has pleasantly bitter elements that enhance the yeasty notes of bread crust. The body remains light while the finish is dry and balanced.
Very faint peach notes break through the lemony freshness of this slender, golden wine. The usually richer, more sumptuous nature of Zierfandler shines through on the textured palate and in the glimpses of generous oiliness that flank the edges of the central citrus focus. This is lovely now but will reward cellaring. The finish is poised and clean-cut, lemony and long.
Very familiar Rioja aromas of cherry, plum and prune scream Tempranillo. This is wiry in feel, with tight, hammering acidity. Berry and black-cherry flavors finish on a subtle note of chocolate along with a final shot of juicy, sharp acidity.
Very few producers make a varietally labeled offering of Sémillon in the state, with this one including 14% Sauvignon Blanc. It's a shame as the variety clearly succeeds here. The aromas bring notes of fig, almond butter and spice followed by dry fruit flavors backed by lemony acidity. It needs some time to fully come together.
Very few wines present such intense florality as does this bottling that smells like a potpourri sachet, full of dried violets, dried lavender and eucalyptus, with touches of dust, chipped slate and black plum. Those flowers carry to the palate as well, where lavender, blossoming thyme and green peppercorns show.
Very fine and complex, this is a great sparkling wine, but one that needs lots of time in the bottle. A classic brut blended with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it's rich with flavors of strawberries, limes, vanilla and honey, with lots of smoky toast and yeastiness. Above all, the mousse is exceptionally refined and pure.
Very fine and complex. This deeply flavored Pinot Noir is powerful, but it's also elegantly silky, which is the magic combination. Shows perfectly ripe cherry and raspberry fruit, with gorgeous overtones of oak and spices. Beautiful now, and will age well through 2014 or so.
Very fine and high-toned, a Cabernet that shows real class and pedigree. Entirely drinkable now for its soft, lush tannins and elaborately detailed blackberry, black cherry, anise, carob and cedar flavors that last long through a spicy finish. Should age well through 2015.
Very fine Chardonnay, marked by brisk, racy acidity and a steely tang to the lemon, lime, white peach and honeysuckle flavors. Very complex and lively, an alluring wine that will take a few years in the bottle.
Very fine, a smooth, silky wine with an elegant mousse, or quality of bubbles. It's pretty full-bodied, with subtle raspberry, peach, vanilla and brioche flavors. Easily the most complex and interesting of Chandon's lineup of sparklers.
Very fine, showing the class of this vineyard, at a great price. Although the wine is thoroughly dry, it's vast in pineapple and lime fruit, with a minerally tang from the terroir and rich, sweet buttered toast and vanilla notes from oak barrel aging. The minerality reprises throughout, giving the wine a steely authority.
Very firm and closed up, this wine is a tough proposition at the moment. It has the weight to develop well along with richness. Acidity, sweet fruits and concentrated tannins will all come through strongly as the wine matures. Drink from 2020.
Very firm and tannic, this gently earthy Merlot-dominated blend also includes 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Cranberry and pomegranate red fruits are softened with buttery oak, and the wine shows more polish than in previous vintages.
Very firm and tight, with streaks of mineral and textures of earth. Unyielding and a bit over-sulfered, but it hints and depth and concentration.
Very firm in tannins, this Petite Sirah is astringent and closed right now. It's hard to appreciate the sweetly ripe cherry and licorice flavors. Could improve significantly over the years, but there's no guarantee.
Very firm tannins coming from ripe black fruits give this structured wine, produced by the winemaking team from Château Montrose, a solid, dense feel. The core of dryness is surrounded by rich fruits and bright acidity. The wine presents the possibility of good aging; drink from 2018.
Very firm, this is a structured, relatively austere wine, with lots of minerality and tightness. The green fruits are  pierced with acidity, but also very fresh. A wine that needs time, give this at least 5–6 years. Screwcap.
Very firmly tannic, still young and needing another year to age. The red berry fruits are present, layered with the tannins and acidity. The wine has structure, plenty of freshness, finishing with cherry acidity.
Very flavorful and full-bodied but also velvety-smooth in texture, this wine is packed with ripe black plum, cranberry and dark chocolate flavors. It has plenty of tannin to thicken the texture but low acidity, which lends softness.
Very flavorful and generous, this wine has bright berry aromas, a mouth-filling, smooth mousse and vibrant, ripe raspberry and cherry flavors.
Very floral and aromatic, a smooth and confected wine, rounded in texture. It has a fine varietal character, rich and with a bite of pepper.
Very floral aromatics mark this distinctive effort; it's positively overflowing with rose petals. Turns more musky and spicy in the mouth, before fading away a little abruptly.
Very floral, citrusy and perfumed upfront, retaining that lemony edge to help the retained carbon dioxide balance the inherent sweetness. Clean and refreshing on the finish.
Very floral, fragrant wine, its acidity a foil for the ripe tropical and white fruits. There is a definite mineral texture here, with just a hint of sweetness that will make this wine great with Asian food. Screwcap.
Very focused and deep aromas of boysenberry, violet, rose petal and anise make for a heady rich entry into this Grenache. There's a touch of caramel to the sip, where black cherry, clove, dried ginger and leather also show. It's a good example of how Grenache can ride the heavier side of the scale with style.
Very focused and pure fruit aromas and flavors give this medium-bodied wine a tasty and straightforward personality. The texture is relaxed due to soft acidity and tannins, and everything tastes fresh and clean.
Very focused and vibrant, this wine has plenty of good acidity that lends a crisp mouthfeel, along with fresh and buoyant flavors of red cherry and cranberry that are nicely concentrated. Moderate tannins add to the grippy texture, and will make this wine work well with rich foods.
Very focused Key-lime aromas meet with strongly earthy, wet-clay scents on the nose of this wine that also offers a subtle minty kick. The palate is citrus-driven, with kumquat and tangerine flavors that give way to a warmer cream element before settling on a tense pink-grapefruit pith element.
Very forward and mouth-filling in pineapples, mangoes, nectarines, guavas and figs. Yet the wine is dry and crisp. Shows flamboyance rather than complexity, and will appeal to fans of this hedonistic style.
Very forward and young, with an overt, grapey style. This wine doesn't walk lightly, as it starts out more positive than it finishes. The plum, cassis and berry fruit is really ripe and active, but there's also some aggressive acidity that makes it more tangy and sharp than ideal.
Very forward fruity flavors of apricots and mandarins and soft, fresh acidity lead to a finish that is more toward grapefruit. But this is essentially a soft, aperitif Grüner.
Very forward, with pretty, medium-ripe cherry flavors. The sweet fruit picks up some vanilla from the barrel, and finishes with smooth tannins. Though at first blush it seems a bit light, sweet and simple, the flavors are persistent, the balance perfect.
Very fragrant and floral, this fun Prosecco (closed with a string instead of a capsule) offers aromas of sweet fruit and honeysuckle. The wine is simple, clean, crisp and ends with bright peach flavors.
Very fragrant green floral and apple aromas on the nose yield to a round, soft, full palate bearing light strawberry and apple flavors. It’s a bit on the sweet side for a brut, but the aromatics keep it quite interesting and pleasing.
Very fragrant in the glass with ripe blackberry syrup, purple lilacs, root beer, chopped mint and sharp cola notes on the nose, this blend of 57% Dolcetto, 35% Refosco and 8% Nebbiolo is a nod to the family's Italian heritage. It's rather light and vibrant on the dynamic and unique palate, with purple fruits, tobacco leaf, slate and black-pepper flavors.
Very fragrant, with aromas of violets, charred meat and ample black fruit. The flavor profile is uncommon but appealing, surely a result of the blend, which is Cabernet Sauvignon along with Carmenère and Petit Verdot. On the finish, you get a hint of charcoal in addition to espresso. If it were deeper and more complex it could potentially be a great wine.
Very fresh although not particularly fruity aromas of raspberry mesh with allspice, thyme and tarragon on the nose of this block-designate bottling from the historic vineyard. Energetic and lighter red-fruit flavors like pomegranate show on the sip, where fennel is the dominant spice.
Very fresh and acidic to the point of tasting sour, this ruby-colored Chianti offers bright berry aromas and white cherry crispness. The wine seems perfectly engineered to pair with cheesy pasta or pizza.
Very fresh and crisp initially, this wine then develops a richer, denser character. Lime and lemon acidity cuts through the rich pear and white plum fruits, giving texture and structure. Drink now.
Very fresh and crisp, this is a wine to drink soon. It has great acidity, bright and lively with green fruit flavors and some mandarin zest to give softness at the end.
Very fresh and crisp, with yeasty aromas and delicious red currant flavors. The acidity is well integrated with the red fruits, giving crispness as well as a light, delicate character. The aftertaste shows some more sweetness, but the wine balances well.
Very fresh and easy-going, this cheerful sparkling Prosecco is a perfect choice for afternoon sips by the pool or in the garden. Citrus, lime, white flower and nectarine open the bouquet.
Very fresh and easygoing, this crisp and spicy selection offers bright accents of lemon zest, kiwi and dried hay. Pair it with your favorite salad recipe.
Very fresh and fruity, this wine from the north end of the Côte de Nuits has tight acidity and plenty of raspberry fruit, fragrant and perfumed. It should be ready to drink from 2017.
Very fresh and inviting aromas of blueberry, plum, rich rose petal and vanilla bean show on the nose of this blend of 65% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 5% Tannat. Once sipped, mulberry, vanilla and red cherry mesh with lavish clove and baking spice, creating an elegant and layered wine.
Very fresh and juicy, this mouth-pleasing Viognier mixes peaches and grapefruit, zippy acidity, with highlights of lemon zest. It's beautifully balanced, detailed and refreshing.
Very fresh and light, with just a bit of a resiny mouthfeel, this Sauvignon Blanc sees only stainless steel. White stone fruit, pear and citrus flavors dominate; flint and steel notes give the fruit substantial backbone. Drink with risotto, or other rich foods—this wine will cut right through it.
Very fresh and lively carnation, rose petal, tarragon, elderberry and strawberry aromas show on the nose of this bottling from young winemaker Gretchen Voelcker. Deep cranberry flavors show on the strong and pleasant palate, where dried herb and peppery spice notes add complexity.
Very fresh and refreshing aromas of honeysuckle blossoms, seared apple, lemongrass and kiwi hit the nose on this wine by James Ontiveros. The palate shows a bit of ripe apple flesh, but trends more toward sour citrus rinds. It's a very clean, crisp wine.
Very fresh and ripe Bing cherries, black plums and roasted figs are balanced on the nose of this wine by chopped mint. It's elegantly complex on the palate, rising in flavor through the sip, with red cherries, purple flowers, smoked meats and a dried garlic-meets-shiitake sense of umami. Firm tannins suggest moderate ageability.
Very fresh and strongly fruity, with just the right amount of dry botrytis, this is already approachable. However that botrytis does promise aging, with peach and ripe orange flavors pushing forward. Drink this attractive wine from 2019.
Very fresh and very delicately fragrant with crisp but balanced acidity. This is a wine as light and delicate as a summer breeze and should be drunk on a sunny day as a lovely, scented apéritif. Drink soon.
Very fresh and very fruity, this wine gushes blueberry aromas and dark cherry flavors in a fun way that makes it easy to sip or even gulp. It's light on tannins and acidity, so it feels smooth but has a slightly gripping texture.
Very fresh and vibrant, filled with zesty pear, citrus and pineapple fruit. Just a pleasure to drink, balancing lush fruit with zippy acids. Hints of apples and butter linger in the background.
Very fresh and vivacious, this light-bodied wine is refreshing. It smells like lemon, grapefruit and kiwi, tastes bright and tangy like lemonade, but is quite dry. The texture is crisp and vital, and keeps the flavors echoing on the finish.
Very fresh aromas of lemongrass, blanched almonds, white flowers and hints of pineapple emerge from this blend of vineyards, featuring 60% Bien Nacido, 33% Dierberg and 7% Maldonado fruit. It's steely and laser-focused on the palate, with a good mix of lemon juice acidity and lime pith grip, not overpowering in any direction.
Very fresh green pear notes are joined by riper notions of passion fruit. These linger on the palate where peppery phenolics add structure and depth.
Very fresh on the nose but with an underlying savory character, this bottling from a vineyard on the extreme western edge of the appellation shows exotic aromas of lime skin, chopped lemongrass and salted lemon juice. The palate is taut with crispness and very salty, showing apple flesh, pear skin and lime-rind flavors. It's altogether well centered, cohesive and attention-grabbing.
Very fresh pear, melon and tropical fruit, medium body and a clean, crisp, citrusy finish make this a wine to rely on with a wide range of foods. It should pair well with just about anything that normally works with white wine.
Very fresh, crisp and green, packed with the crispest apples and lime zest. The Colombard adds a perfume of warm apricot skins, while the acidity and weight come from the Ugni Blanc.
Very fresh, crisp fruit, light and with a soft, green plum skin texture. The aftertaste is lively, bright.
Very fresh, crisp raspberry flavors are layered with acidity. This shows the bright red fruit character of 2007—light, fragrant, maybe finishing with some leanness.
Very fresh, fine and elegant, this has savory aromas of cured meat, rusty earth and white truffle followed by notes of dried fruit and currant.
Very fresh, fruity and appetizing notes of juicy pear make this very easy to like and sip. The palate is fresh and made light and zingy by lovely zesty lime and lemon notes. A vein of white pepper is fizzing away at the core. It's a perfect summer wine with the slightest spritz.
Very fresh, fruity and drinkable, this is a soft, red-cherry-flavored wine. Attractive acidity bursts out of the glass with a perfumed, tangy aftertaste. Drink now.
Very fresh, light and a little candylike in flavor, this vivid-pink wine is dry and fruity. It is charming and easy to sip.
Very fresh, pliable and clean, it makes for easy and refreshing summer drinking.
Very fresh, very raspberry, this wine opens gently with sweetness and roundness. The tannins do come into play, but ever so gently, a counterpoint to the sweet, fine fruits that dominate this attractive, relatively early drinking wine.
Very fresh, with well-judged wood and very juicy fruit, a wine that is almost shocking in its youthful acidity. It bursts in the mouth, fruit and bright.
Very fruit-driven, this dry Cab has jammy cherry, blackberry and currant flavors, with a rich edge of cedar and cocoa. It's a bit immature now and should develop bottle complexities over the next 6–8 years.
Very fruit-forward aromas of green apple, kiwi, passion fruit and even chopped scallion are pleasantly pungent on this wine by Dr. Enrique Ferro. Nectarine flesh mixes it up with white flowers on the palate, all held together by bright acidity. It taste good, but is rather powerful, reminiscent of the grassier New Zealand style.
Very fruity and a little spicy, this medium- to full-bodied wine has a smooth texture, nicely concentrated black-cherry and blueberry flavors and a good sense of layering and length.
Very fruity and fragrant, this is an attractive wine that shows potential. It has good acidity, firm tannins and fresh black-currant flavor. Drink this wine after two more years.
Very fruity and fresh but also smooth and supple, this full-bodied wine smells like ripe raspberries. Likewise, tastes recall raspberries and red cherries. and feel firm and grippy enough to counterbalance the ripeness and body. It's a very sleek but very big mouthful.
Very fruity and fresh in aroma, this elegant wine has light, crisp apple and lemon flavors, fresh-baked bread accents and lively acidity. A layered texture seems to blend in accents of almond and vanilla, increasing complexity with each sip. It's one of California's blue-chip bubblies.
Very fruity and fresh, this wine has crisp apples as well as red fruit giving it a bright, delicious feeling. The acidity goes right through the wine, giving a beautifully fresh feel that points up the fragrant raspberries. Vineyards are in the heart of the sandy soils of the Saint Tropez peninsula.
Very fruity and rather soft in texture, this wine has a sense of sweetness from the buttery, grape aromas to the ripe, almost jammy flavors and gentle finish.
Very fruity and soft, this wine blends tropical pineapple aromas with a crisper, lemon zest palate. It's a gentle wine, its acidity tamed by the ripe fruits. Screwcap,
Very fruity aromas hint that this is a bright wine, its tannins shaded by the red and black berry flavors. The structure is integrated, showing ripe as well as fresh fruit with final flavors of chocolate.
Very fruity but nice and dry, this wine smells like cantaloupe and tastes like honeydew melon. It's well balanced, full bodied, and has a good crisp element propelling it from the palate to the finish.
Very fruity in aroma, like raspberries, and generous in flavor, like boysenberries, this full-bodied wine is easy to drink. It's slightly sweet and has a smooth texture.
Very fruity in flavor and smooth in texture, this Rhône-style blend of 67% Grenache with Mourvèdre and Syrah is easy to enjoy. It is full-bodied, feels rich and mouth-filling on the palate and remains light in tannins and acidity.
Very fruity in flavor and tangy in mouthfeel, this full-bodied wine combines lively acidity with citrus, herb and ripe pear flavors and a touch of sweetness. Little or no oak influence comes through, so the vivid fruit components take center stage.
Very fruity, fresh and easy to enjoy, this has the smoothness of barrel age but little overt oak flavor. It features bright red cherry and raspberry aromas, juicy berry flavors and a texture with just enough bite to be appetizing.
Very fruity, lightly sweet and full bodied, this easygoing blend of Zinfandel, Merlot and other varieties smells like maple syrup, tastes jammy and has enough sweetness to balance its tannic texture.
Very fruity, ripe-tasting and rounded, this medium-bodied wine is easy to swallow due to its low acidity and soft texture. Hints of butter and nutmeg add to the fresh apple flavors.
Very fruity, ripe and extremely full bodied in terms of alcohol, this exuberant wine has abundant cherry and herbal flavors and a smooth, juicy texture. With very little tannin and all that fruitiness, it should be a crowd-pleaser.
Very fruity, this is a crisp, lemon-scented and flavored wine, with grassy, herbaceous character from the green Sauvignon Blanc in the blend. The aftertaste is tight with some bitterness.
Very fruity, this is a dry wine, with green fruits, citrus and a tangy character. It is light, bright and fresh, very ready to drink.
Very fruity, this is a refreshingly crisp lemon-flavored wine, bright and intensely tangy. It is a young Alvarinho and needs aging to bring out its ripe creamy, apple-and-pear character.
Very fruity, this is a ripe Merlot-dominated rosé with some Cabernet Franc. It is rounded, smooth, soft at the end with bright and crisp acidity. Wild strawberries and a rich aftertaste give extra weight.
Very fruity, very juicy, this wine is all about crisp, fresh fruitiness, starting with hand-picked biodynamic vineyard plots and gravity-flow into the winery. Red currants dominate, with considerable acidity right at the fore. At the back, the tannins are developing, but fruit will be the hallmark for the long future. Owner Thierry Valette's family also owns Château Troplong-Mondot in Saint-Émilion.
Very fruity, with jammy or pie-filling flavors of red cherries, raspberries, cola and sweet cedar, sprinkled with cinnamon, anise and melted butter. The tannic structure is rich and refined, suggesting moderate ageability.
Very fruity, with tons of blackberries, cherries, currants and cocoa folded into soft tannins. A bit simple, but a nice everyday sipper.
Very full-bodied and rich, a densely structured wine that's too young to appreciate now. The cherries, raspberries, currants, roasted coconut, mocha frappuccino, date nut bread, candied ginger, orange tea and sandalwood are exotic and almost overpowering, but the wine never loses its tense control. Now through 2012, at least.
Very full-bodied, heavy and dense, with significant tannins, although they're ripe and soft, which makes this Syrah drinkable now. It's enormously rich in blackberries, currants, chocolate, licorice and sweet oak. Probably at its best now and for a year or two.
Very funky and confounding at first, but then it opens to reveal smoke, stone fruit and mineral aromas. The mouth is quite spicy, with green herbs accenting citrus and mineral. The tangy lemon finish has a chalky grip to it, which only adds to the overall complexity of this unique Napa white.
Very gamy and umami-rich aromas of bacon fat and animal hide meet with maple, boysenberry, white pepper, rosemary and teriyaki on the nose of this bottling. The savory and somewhat smoky touches thrive on the palate too, where roasted pork and charred plums combine with coffee bean and warm-toast flavors.
Very generous and full-bodied, this wine has buttery, toasty aromas and almost-sweet marshmallow, vanilla and cream flavors. It's mouth-coating and has a lingering, tasty finish.
Very gentle notions of ripe pear color the nose. The palate is more toned down, with an earthy edge. The body is light and fresh. Drink while aromas are at their height.
Very gentle, perfumed honeysuckle notes are distinct and enticing on the nose. The palate follows this with a perfumed, opulent medium-sweetness that is reminiscent of sugar-plums and candied fruit pastilles: there are peach and plum and unbridled richness with a slight phenolic grip.
Very golden and even nearing brown in color, this wine by the Paso Rhône pioneer shows walnut oil, honey and dried lemon peel on the nose. It's not so dense on the palate, offering an essence of brown pear and orange rinds. It could use a touch more mellowing in the bottle.
Very good and delicious, if not quite up there with the warmer vintages of 2007 and 2008. The winemaker has done a yeoman's job with this wine—considering the difficult vintage—coaxing out pleasant raspberry- and cherry-jam flavors.The finish is dry and spicy. Drink now.
Very good Carmenère with requisite tea, herbal and bold berry aromas. The palate is just right in that it's neither heavy nor sharp, and the flavors of cola, burnt brown sugar and roasted berries are smooth and deep. Finishes with notes of coffee, herbs and sweet fruits as it hits the target close to the bull's eye.
Very good price for a Cab of this quality. It's dry and full-bodied, with ripe, attractive flavors of blackberry jam, cherries, minty chocolate and smoky oak.
Very good price for a Cabernet this complex and smooth from Napa Valley. Offers lots of pleasure in the velvety texture and rich flavors of blackberries, cassis and mocha. A big improvement over the '06 bottling. Give it a few hours of decanting.
Very good price for a nice, silky, dry Pinot of this quality. It's quite restrained, in keeping with the vintage, showing herb-inflected sour cherry candy, cranberry, red currant and spice flavors, brightened with zesty acidity.
Very Grüner, with its spice, pear skin and pepper and rounded, creamy character. A delicious wine, quite light, with flavors of crushed grapefruit coming through in the form of fresh acidity. Screwcap.
Very grassy and citrusy, with hints of garden-fresh vegetables and a slight floral note. It's light and almost airy on the tongue, finishing crisp and clean. A refreshing burst of anise caps things off.
Very grassy, herbaceous aromas lead to a wine that is dominated by minerality and pink grapefruit. It is intense, ripe and concentrated, but there is an element of tension in its crisp aftertaste.
Very hard in tannins, with a real lockdown astringency in the mouth, this is one for the cellar, and it's a slam dunk that age will reward it. Drily balanced and elegantly constructed, it brims with rich blackberry and black currant flavors, with a fine coating of spicy oak. Best 2012–2018.
Very heady and earthy aromas of cedar, tobacco leaf, smoked cigar and the hint of ancho chile show on the nose this unique, cool-climate take on Merlot. The palate is quite woodsy with cedar and pine but also jammy with red fruit, bolstered by bitter dark chocolate and dried chile pepper.
Very herbaceous and fruity, this has gooseberry, lime and pink grapefruit flavors. It's a light, bright and attractive, and it will be ready to drink in a few months.
Very herbaceous in character, this is a wine that has richness, intensity and the balance of a mineral texture and tight acidity. It's a wine that needs food with its structure and tangy aftertaste.
Very herbaceous, dominated by Sauvignon Blanc, this wine is powered by green fruits, citrus and layers of wood. Ripe, crisp, with a tangy finish.
Very herbaceous, Sauvignon Blanc-dominated wine. It has gooseberry flavors that are rounded out with pea and green bean tastes. A wine that can be drunk young and with seafood. Screwcap.
Very herbaceous, this is a light and simple wine. It has attractive green fruits, citrus and fresh acidity. Crisp and clean, it is ready to drink.
Very herbal and grassy, this crisp wine emphasizes fruit rather than texture. It is ripe, fruity with citrus and gooseberry flavors that are heightened by the acidity. It's a wine to drink now.
Very herbal and green, this is an intensely grassy wine, with a catty character. It's crisp, fresh and ready to drink.
Very herbal Sauvignon Blanc, crisp and tangy, with flavors of lime and green apple skins. Fresh as well as structured, with a final zest of acidity.
Very herbal, this wine is all tangy acidity and spice. It shows strong Sauvignon flavors and texture with a fresh background to all this richness. Drink from 2018. The property is owned by Bordeaux Sciences Agro school, which uses the 55-acre vineyard for training and experiments.
Very high-toned for a relatively affordable wine, this shows Key lime pith, Greek yogurt, scratched pink grapefruit skin and a fresh 7-Up soda liveliness on the nose. Anjou peas, seared green apples, lime zest and nectarine power the pleasant energy on the palate, which wipes up clean with a vanilla finish.
Very high alcohol (15.5%) mars this otherwise good wine, giving it a hot, peppery feeling and making it unbalanced. Dry and tannic, it has fully ripe flavors of black cherries, cassis, cocoa and oak.
Very high alcohol gives this wine a hot, jalapeño pepper burn. Based on Zinfandel, the blend also includes Syrah and Petite Sirah. It's a rugged, rustic wine that would shine with a richly-sauced barbecue for balance.
Very high alcohol in this superripe wine shows in a hot, chili pepper feeling and in the impression of sweetness. Both combine to give the berry-cherry flavors a rustic quality.
Very high in alcohol but wears it well, showing a soft, lush texture and lots of fruit flavors. Waves of cherries, raspberries, currants and plums wash across the palate, with a rich edge of milk chocolate. The finish is dry and wonderfully spicy.
Very high in alcohol, nearly 18% abv, which gives the sweet blackberry, blueberry and chocolate flavors some heat. It lacks some complexity, and is too soft for development, but it's luscious. Drink up.
Very high in alcohol, to the tune of nearly 16%, making this Zin hot and also rather sweet, an impression that may be reinforced with residual sugar. It's made in that big, Porty style, with dried fruit and chocolate flavors.
Very honeyed and sweet, with bold flavors of apricot and mango that seem almost caramelized in their sugary intensity. Drink now and over the next few years.
Very honeyed, liquorous wine, with a full texture, orange marmalade flavor and acidity contrasting with a sweet toffee character. It has weight and richness, with possible long-term aging. Screwcap.
Very hoppy and herbal on the nose, this bottling offers aromas of dried blueberry, wet gravel and leather. The palate combines underripe blackberries with asphalt and espresso flavors. Too tightly structured now, it needs more time to develop.
Very impressive color, fruit concentration and tannic structure add up to an outstanding Petite Sirah. What's compelling is that this full-bodied wine seems to get its character purely from the concentrated and tannin-laden grapes rather than from new oak barrels or add-ins. This needs time in a cool cellar to show all its potential complexity. Best from 2016–2022.
Very in line with traditional Cerasuolo di Vittoria, this ruby-colored wine offers pretty berry nuances, with raspberry and blueberry followed by delicate almond flavors. The wine is lean and crisp and would pair well with fish couscous or eggplant caponata.
Very informal and light, this shows fresh fruit aromas that are backed by notes of green grass and dried herb. It feels sharp and lean on the close.
Very inky in color, this bold and flavorful blend by Hope Family Wines shows aromas of cooked blueberries, caramel, fudge and milk chocolate. The palate is rich with milk chocolate, cappuccino and vanilla-bean flavors laid across a base of black-plum pudding and woven together by lush, sticky tannins.
Very intense herbal wine, full-bodied, with hints of mineral and a very forward grapefruit and lime fruit character.
Very intense wine, packed with dark tannins, solid and powerful. It is leavened with great perfumes, while the overall effect is dark, brooding and concentrated.
Very intense, very nervy wine, living on a thin wire of grapefruit and other citrus flavors but much more about pure structure. The aftertaste shows great concentration.
Very inviting and familiar aromas of sea salt, squeezed citrus, baked lemons Gravenstein apple and a touch of slate show on this crowd-pleaser from Bill Brousseau and Rob Jensen in Los Gatos. The palate is framed by slightly sour kumquat, tart apple and lime-powered acidity, with a cementy grip that makes the sip as much about texture as flavor.
Very inviting aromas of blackberry-cherry pie with ice cream get floral lift from violet on this wine by Gianni Manucci. Grape candy flavors emerge at first, then find a nice tension with chopped herbs, dried oregano and a plum-skin bitterness.
Very inviting aromas of lemon curd, buttercream, white peach and pear blossom prove quite ripe but far from overdone on this blend of 40% Roussanne, 40% Marsanne and 20% Viognier. There is thinly focused but prevalent acidity to the sip, where peaches, lemon and cream flavos thrive. A well balanced and rich white Rhône blend, which is harder to pull off than it sounds.
Very inviting, incredibly rich aromas of butterscotch, crème brûlée, peach custard, lemon curds, honeysuckle and caramelized banana show on this wine's thick nose. The palate offers orange peels cooked in a buttery sauce, marshmallows and marzipan.
Very jammy aromas lead to strawberry flavors. The other side of this wine is bitterness and a tight acid texture. It needs until 2015 to integrate.
Very jammy in character, this is a soft, ripe wine. It seems almost too ripe, a wine that is rounded without great texture. It will be ready to drink by the end of the year.
Very jammy on the nose with fig and blackberry, this bottling of all the primary Bordeaux grapes except Cabernet Franc also shows aromatic hints of maple and bacon fat. It's very full on the sip, with chalky, mouthcoating tannins and flavors of black cherry, cola and cocoa.
Very jammy, it has gentle, soft tannins, and strawberry fruits. It's fresh without any structure.
Very juicy and full of acidity, it has an unpleasant metallic edge that gives a bitter aftertaste.
Very juicy and ripe, this is a fruity, blackberry flavored wine. The ripe feeling is cut through by acidity and solidified by tannins, making it a rich wine that will be ready to drink from 2016.
Very juicy aromas of blueberry pie with a buttered crust and vanilla ice cream bring great promise to this Malbec. It carries through with a very round and broad mouthfeel and rich plum flavors with cracked black pepper. The tannins are a tad astringent.
Very juicy if straightforward aromas of blueberry and blackberry rise off of this fun and easy-drinking Syrah from the Carhartt family, whose estate is in the middle of the Santa Ynez Valley. The palate builds on those ripe elements with a bit of tar and dried fruit.
Very juicy wine, with fresh berry fruits and relatively soft tannins. The wine has acidity, a dry leather edge and a softer, sweeter finish.
Very juicy, easy blueberry-fruited, light Zweigelt made for fun, easy drinking. Unpretentious and honest, this could also be chilled in summer. Wonderful for picnics and other occasions where a joyful but uncomplicated red is needed.
Very juicy, smoky, smooth and velvety. It has great acidity as well as sweet fruit. An opulent, open wine, yet with a great final structure; big and sweet.
Very laid back, the nose shows some mango and pear, but you really have to go looking for them. In contrast, the palate is almost pushy–this is a big, fat intense wine. Essentially quite simple, but very tasty. Short to medium finish.
Very lean in mouthfeel and very dry and light in flavor, this refreshing wine adds cucumber flavors to lemon zest aromas. It's light in body, crisp and tangy in texture.
Very lemony, this is a crisp citrus- and peach-flavored wine. It has delicious, refreshing fruitiness that contrasts with a softer, rounded texture.  For drinking now and until 2018.
Very lifted notes of camphor precede a light-bodied, refreshing white and remain within touching distance throughout. This is a fresh, if unusual, Riesling.
Very light-bodied, slight but textbook Grüner with green pear fruit on nose and palate and an almost fizzy, refreshing and utterly appetizing hint of white pepper. Gives a superclean, pear-drop finish.
Very light and fresh, this offers crisp red berry flavors. It's not quite dry, favoring fruitiness and acidity with a touch of sweetness to soften the crisp aftertaste.
Very light and reserved on the nose at first whiff, this wine eventually allows aromas of smoked pork, red cherry and a light dusting to dried herbs to emerge. The palate is also delicate with cranberry and peppery herbs, making for an easy, engaging if not overly complex sipper.
Very light and shy on the nose, this wine with patience shows pomegranate punch and rain-slicked slate. The palate offers tart cranberry, a touch of Earl Grey tea and pencil-lead flavors.
Very light and slightly sweet in style, this low-alcohol bottling offers stone fruit, lemon juice and peels, and the slightest hint of petrol on the honeyed nose. Exceedingly bright and crisp on the palate, the peachy sweetness is cut by a nearly bubbly acidity. It would be great for pool parties.
Very light and summery on the nose, this bottling shows aromas of yellow melon, green pear, lime blossoms, lime juice and a touch of chalk. Wet rocks, cut garden herbs and green apple skins emerge on the refreshing palate, which is perfect for sunny days and shellfish.
Very light aromas of Anjou pear and lemon-lime soda grow riper toward an increasing melon element on the nose of this wine. There is a bouncy and enlivening acidity once sipped with green lime, kumquat and citrus pith flavors.
Very light aromas of apricot and apple blossom show on this appellation blend by the single-vineyard specialists, whose winery is based in Los Gatos. A nice touch of acid marks the palate, where lemon zest meets with ripe Pink Lady apple flavors.
Very light aromas of red cherry, rose petal and potpourri barely show on the nose of this bottling. The flavors are very flat, with light cranberry and a touch of licorice.
Very light aromas of seared nectarine, wet stone, orange peels and gardenia show on the nose of this bottling from the Tooth & Nail team. Tangerine rinds, sea salt and Gala apple flesh show on the sip.
Very light berry and mint aromas open this austere, dry Cabernet. The fruit is dark, but needs more depth and profile to carry the woody presence here.
Very light in appearance, this sprightly bottling offers tart yet warm aromas of wild cherry, cranberry, sweet oregano, sandalwood and wet earth. Pomegranate, strawberry, slate and cedar notes show on the palate, which showcases ripeness in a restrained fashion. Drink now–2035.
Very light in aromas for two often-overpowering grapes, this delicately arranged bottling with patience shows rainy slate and pear-skin aromas. The minerally concrete character carries the sip, where yellow-apple skins and squeezed lemons make for a racy experience. It's a white wine for the cellar.
Very light in body, color and aromas. The nose is punchy and a bit sharp, and so is the palate, which offers crisp, bracing acids to highlight zesty, lean nectarine and tangerine flavors. Quite linear and citric, but experience with this wine says it shows best with food.
Very light in color and body, with citric and chewing gum aromas along with a spot of caramel. The palate is lean, jumpy and fresh, with tart cherry and plum skin flavors. Borders on sour but doesn't quite go that far. Lean Pinot any way you slice it.
Very light in color and very crisp, clean and light in taste, this wine also delivers vivid raspberry flavors and great acidity. It stands out from the crowd for its elegance, balance and taut texture, while also delivering a mouthwatering finish.
Very light in color in the glass, this appellation blend shows cut nectarine, lemon juice and apple skins on the easy, restrained but energetic nose. The palate offers touches of Pink Lady apple, nectarine and squeezed tangerine. It's altogether crisp and refreshing while retaining the grape's familiar notes.
Very light in color, so much so that it’s almost transparent. Potent aromas of mushroom, bramble and buttery oak. Some strawberry and cream flavors are driven by snappy acids. There’s length and kick to the fruit-forward finish.
Very light in color, such that it's almost pink. The nose on this Cabernet-Syrah blend is accented by chewing gum and spice aromas. The palate is clean but light in weight, with crisp cherry skin and watermelon flavors. It's not very deep or long, but what's here is tasty and ready to drink now.
Very light in color, this bottling by the Coppola family shows sweeter aromas of Gravenstein apple, ripe pear, honeysuckle and tuberose on the nose. It's also a tad sweet on the palate, especially for today's sparkling standards, but will surely attract a wide fan base thanks to apple custard, cotton candy and plumeria-like flavors, all dissected by racy bubbles and acidity.
Very light in color, this bottling is one of the first submitted in the vintage. It offers fresh lemon-lime soda, tangerine skin, lime zest and pear-blossom aromas. There's a touch of sweet to the palate, with poached apple, pear cider, tangerine juice and orange-skin flavors. The honeyed element grows quickly as the wine sits open.
Very light in color, this bottling offers tight, bright and plump aromas of peach and lime pith. Lime candy and citrus pop on the palate, giving life to ripe Asian pear flavors that ride a grippy texture all the way into the finish.
Very light in color, this bubbly shows ripe apples, caramelized pears, nectarine flesh, yellow cake and the slightest hint of roasted nuts, marzipan and yeast on the dynamic nose. Nuttiness and yeastiness also touch the tightly wound and tart palate, flavored further with seared pineapple, apricot and apple flesh elements.
Very light in color, this cool, crisp bottling by Amy Butler shows ripe Key lime, chalky minerality and sliced red apple on the nose. The palate is clean and tangy with lime peel, Meyer lemon pith, green papaya and a slight grassiness.
Very light in color, this wine brings appealing aromas of white pepper, smoked meat, orange peel, herb, earth and sauvage. The palate is ethereally light and delicate, showing pleasing nuances, with plenty of floral flavors on the finish.
Very light in color, this wine has a brisk nose that shows Key lime peel, lemongrass, grapefruit blossom and a wet-concrete minerality. There is tremendous energy and zest on the palate, which is steely and stony with flavors of red grapefruit and a great textural grip.
Very light in color, this wine has a pungent nose that features white flowers, cold steel and lime juice. The palate is bright with racy acidity, showing lots of honeysuckle, some ripe green apples and hints of honeydew and kiwi.
Very light in color. Opens with blueberry, rhubarb, bacon and cedar aromas. From front to back it sits on a light frame, and on the palate it dances. Shows some buttered-toast and wood on the finely etched finish. Classy and lean, not sugary sweet. Elegant, in the Bethel Heights house style.
Very light in flavor and texture, the wine has hints of strawberry flavors with acidity and a crisp, clean character.
Very light in the glass and fresh on the nose, this bottling by Chumash tribe descendant Tara Gomez offers aromas of lemon blossom and honeydew rind. There is good tension to the sip, which is very much focused on texture, with flashes of green apple skins and lime peels, proving quite tight and zesty.
Very light in the glass and nimble throughout the sip, this is a promising young wine that may wind up quite excellent with some bottle age. Tightly wound black raspberry and strawberry fruit notes meet cinnamon, camphor and dewy eucalyptus on the nose, while the palate packs an array of thyme and bay leaf against a lighter cranberry fruit base.
Very light in the glass and subtle on the nose, this bottling from the John Sebastiano Vineyard shows cranberry-raspberry fruit with a pleasing mace and nutmeg spice, proving refreshing and easily quaffable. Tart red currants and raspberry meet with dewy herbs and fennel on the palate—elements that work well with a slight chill on a warm day.
Very light in the glass, this bottling from a very cool-climate vineyard shows a clean line of honeysuckle, crisp Asian pear and tart lime blossoms on the nose. There is great tension to the tight and tart lime-laced sip, with some nectarine ripeness in the midpalate, lots of chalky texture and a sizzle of acidity. Racy as can be, it's great now, but will last for years. Drink now through 2030.
Very light in the glass, this bottling from Richard Sanford's label shows apples, orange rind, scratched lime and tonic notes on the nose. Once sipped, the intriguing texture is grippy, the flavors are tightly wound and the finish is mouthwatering, with lemon, lime pith and kumquat elements.
Very light in the glass, this bottling is also delicate on the nose in terms of power. But it offers tons of action nonetheless, with fresh and dried herbs, flint and a tiny bit of smoke adding to the red-fruit aromas. The palate is tense with energy, showing thyme, oregano and eucalyptus spice, placing more emphasis on the herbal backbone than the red-fruit ripeness.
Very light in the glass, this bottling is fruit punch-like, with prominent pomegranate, cranberry and raspberry notes, alongside cola aromas. The palate is reminiscent of cran-raspberry soda: simple, light and easy, with a touch of licorice to spice it up.
Very light in the glass, this bottling shows peach, melon, apple and key lime pith, which cuts through the riper elements. A simmering acidity is ever present on the sip, hewing the tropical guava flavors and providing a refreshing tension.
Very light in the glass, this bottling shows tons of underripe cranberry, dried rose petals, marjoram, white pepper and tangy olives on the nose. The light-bodied palate shows similar qualities, with fully extracted flavors of tart red fruits, purple flowers and white tea.
Very light in the glass, this fascinating exploration of the underripe side of Pinot Noir shows green olive and crushed cherry tomato aromas on the nose, with prevalent bay leaf, green peppercorn and pine resin. Those elements converge on the sip to make a cranberry, spicy herb and eucalyptus nut tea, which is tangy and complex.
Very light in the glass, this offers lime juice, lemon peel and tuberose on the nose. There is decent acidity and minerality on the palate, with apples, white flowers and melon.
Very light in the glass, this single vineyard expression shows, fresh pomegranate and rose petals on the expressive nose. It's tight and bright in the glass, with light raspberry, cranberry, fennel and chaparral spice.
Very light in the glass, this vanguard blend of 9% Chardonnay, 29% Pinot Blanc and 32% Pinot Gris shows tight aromas of wet cement, sliced apple, Key lime sorbet and kiwi popsicle. There's lots of brisk, apple- and pear-driven energy on the palate, which also offers a very stony character and white-rock minerality, all dancing across the tongue with panache.
Very light in the glass, this wine by regional Sauv Blanc veteran Kathy Joseph offers cut green apples, sweet lime blossoms and a light honey element on the nose. Lime zest and citrus pith decorate the palate, with steely white pepper and dried oregano flavors that race across the tense palate.
Very light in the glass, this wine by Steve Martell strikes a singular stone-fruit note at first, then slides into pluot, Gala apple and fresh, margarita-like lime tones. Specks of focused acidity rule the palate, where a poached-pear warmth shows on the midpalate yet the edges are sharpened by bergamot and Mexican lime zest. The finish tingles the tongue nicely.
Very light in the glass, this wine shows cola, dried strawberries, dried rose petals, sagebrush and a rustic leather element on the nose. The palate offers lots of dried herbs, from oregano to sage to marjoram, as well as Earl Grey tea, all against a light raspberry-cranberry juice frame.
Very light in the glass, this wine shows strawberry, wild thyme, charred cedar and a smoke character. It's dainty and very herbal on the sip, with cranberry and pomegranate flavors enhanced by dried oregano and bay leaf.
Very light mango, pineapple and banana aromas are joined by flowers and minerals. Nutty notes are brought to the fore on the dry and stony palate. Finishes broad and long, with echos of the floral and mineral notes on the nose. Now it's pretty tight; best in 2002 and beyond.
Very light on the nose, this wine from an extreme coastal site shows key limes, wet slate and pear flesh on the delicate, well-integrated nose. Ripe Pink Lady apples and lemonade show on the surprisingly juicy sip before settling into tighter lemon peel flavors and a chalky structure.
Very light pink, this rosé offers extremely pleasant and approachable aromas of nectarine, pluot, plum, lime and a dusting of vanilla. These give way to a light and bright palate, where lime zest cuts through a bubble gum core. Yeasty notes adds further nuance.
Very light strawberry fruit competes with a powerful flavor of damp earth. The wine seems thin and on the green side.
Very light wood aging gives a complex dimension without losing the ripe yellow fruits that give the wine its rich character. Fresher acidity is integrating well with the spice and vanilla. Drink in 2016.
Very light, actually nearly translucent. Aromatics of caramel and butter lead into a super-sweet palate with plenty of vanilla and caramel flavors. The texture is creamy and there's ample woody character along with toasted nuts on the finish. It's quite sweet, yet structured.
Very light, could almost be a rosé.
Very light, crisp, fresh, it has some sweetness that is balanced by the acidity and raspberry fruit. For those who like a really pink color in their rosés, this is perfect. Screwcap.
Very light, elegant, fresh wine, crisp in the extreme, deliciously perfumed with its white flower aromas and hedgerow fruits. There is a green element here, shown in the fruit skin structure, which ends with an aftertaste of fresh, piercing acidity. Screwcap.
Very light, even thin, this white lacks the stuffing sought in a simple quaffing white. There are no overtly off-putting elements here, there's just not much here at all. —M.M.
Very light, just hinting at tannins, this is an easy, soft wine, the black berry juice fruit flavors the main taste element. The wine has a jammy, smoky character that comes through, but the texture remains dilute.
Very light, the fruit is soft, easily attractive but rather muted. Flavors are of spice, black figs and stewed plums, the acidity a factor along with the wood.
Very light, this is scented with fresh bread dough and shows a cherry soda pop flavor. Pretty, light and simple on entry, it feels stripped of depth and disappears quickly in the mouth.
Very light, this wine disappoints with a lack of power, of steely acidity. Instead it is soft, broad, a touch of green fruit, leaving a light, bright aftertaste.
Very light, to the point of being watery, with hints of citrus and tea. The finish leaves a sour aftertaste.
Very lightly golden in color, this perfumy wine has fine ripe tropical fruits with a touch of honey and spice. Rounded, full bodied, pepper and acidity at the end. Screwcap.
Very lightly textured, this fruity, fresh wine has a hint of caramel to accent flavors of citrus and red berries. The aftertaste is clean and always packed with fruit. Screwcap.
Very lightweight wine, with some attenuated fruit and a dry character. The attraction is the fresh acidity that does offer some compensation for the overoaked flavor.
Very limited, this is a relatively new project from second generation winemaker Jason Lett. It is sourced from “the oldest vines in the Willamette Valley”—presumably Eyrie vines planted in 1965, and finds similar territory as the Eyrie reserve, with a bit more richness through the midpalate, partly from more expressive barrel flavors.
Very little Auxerrois is grown in Oregon, and the earliest plantings, the owners note, were here at Zenith. This could be mistaken for a Chardonnay, with ripe melon, peach and banana fruit matched to rounded out flavors of butter and caramel. It was barrel fermented and put through malolactic, much like a fine Chardonnay.
Very little differentiates this from the winery's other single-varietal reds. They all seem like components rather than complete wines. It's dry and austere, with barely ripe red berry fruit. The hard, short finish and drying tannins make this wine difficult to like.
Very little of this bottling was made. It's an experiment in making a white wine the way one would a red, fermented with skins and seeds, then aged eight months in new French oak. It's not for everyone. Cloudy and funky, it's teeming with acidity and yet somewhat dense on the palate, the fruit muted in favor of a taste of flowers and clay.
Very little of this dry, lightly fruity wine is produced. It's fruit more than flower that you'll taste here—melon, peach, and a suggestion of guava. It's fresh and ready to drink right now.
Very little of this reserve was produced in 2011. A blend from five vineyards, it spent 10 months in 43% new oak. Firm and a bit steely, it has tight dark fruits anchored in a streak of earth and iron. Give it a few more years in the bottle, or decant if drinking it soon.
Very little of this wine exists, sadly, given its gorgeous mix of mint, dried herb and feral, meaty notes. Despite its rustic flirtatiousness, it allows for floral aromas to accent the expansive palate, revealing hints of white pepper, citrus and smoked meat.
Very little stands out on the bouquet other than a whiff of oak and applesauce. This feels juicy and acidic, thus fresh, while flavors of apple and citrus feed into a citrusy finish with a touch of oak.
Very lively and jumpy, with bright cherry fruit supported by high-voltage acidity. It hits the high notes, but lacks the bass below, and therefore is ultimately a bit out of balance. Very much a cherry-fruit dominated, one-dimensional wine
Very mature and soft in structure, this is a wine that needs to be drunk now. It has some richness, a dry edge and some attractive acidity, but it is not a wine that will improve.
Very mellow and mature tasting, this full-bodied wine leaves no rough edges or elbows sticking out, so sipping it is a pleasure. Aromas are savory, herbaceous and lightly earthy rather than fruity, and the flavors follow the same path.
Very Merlot dominated, this is a ripe and soft wine. It has some dryness that forms the core, but the rich fruit with its balanced acidity dominates. Smooth now, it will age quickly and easily and should be drunk from 2015.
Very mineral and textured from the limestone soil, this is a concentrated and complex wine. It boasts considerable acidity and very crisp fruit, with grapefruit and juicy lemons coming through strongly. Age until at least 2016.
Very mineral in character, the wine has grapefruit and orange peel characters. It's taut, linear in style, with a lively acidity that cuts through the citrus and green apple fruits.
Very mineral in character, this wine is named after a former priest of Dürnstein who renovated the village church. It is certainly ripe, while very textured and chalky in character, with its acidity whirling around the glass. There's great concentration as well, beautifully smoothed out by the spice and crisp apple balance. Screwcap. Artisanal Cellars, Select Wines.
Very mineral in style, this is a structured, textured wine with good aging potential. It's acidity, still pronounced and up front, reveals itself with crisp citrus flavors that accent warm yellow fruits. The wine needs a year or two before drinking, so wait until 2015.
Very mineral textured wine, speaking of limestone soil. It balances a toasty, smoky character against the ripest green and yellow fruits. The citrus lends its acidity to tighten up a finely structured, ageworthy wine.
Very mineral, flavors of quince and almonds in a tight structure. The wine needs several months to open out.
Very mineral, textured wine, its acidity and taut green fruit flavors firmly in evidence. It has some of the richness and opulence of the vintage, with great swathes of ripe yellow fruits developing. For long-term aging.
Very minerally in character, this is taut and edgy, laced with acidity, citrus fruit and a tangy character. It's bright, crisp and so fresh.
Very minerally in character, this wine has only a touch of wood, showing attractive acidity, citrus fruits and a tight, nervy texture.
Very modern and polished in style, this wine goes for the soft, juicy fruit characters. The tannins are sweet, equally soft, already delicious in character, finishing with smoky cranberry and black currant flavors.
Very much a baby, this is one big, bold, burly Cab-Merlot-Syrah blend that's filled to the brim with extracted plum fruit, bitter chocolate and earth. It takes a long time in the glass for it to lose its youthful, funky aromatics, and on the palate things are still a bit scattered. But in due time things will settle and integrate
Very much a food wine, this has a strong tannic element as well as red-plum flavors. It is rich, dry and full bodied showing a touch of pepper at the end.
Very much done in a mineral-driven Chablis style, this interesting bottling shows a tremendous amount of flint, crushed rock and struck match on the nose, alongside dried apple and yellow-grapefruit skin. Briny oyster shells and sandstone combine with a touch of smoke on the palate. Serve with shellfish.
Very much in an elegant style, this wine shows soft, almost velvet tannins supporting the ripe fruit. It has richness, a round character masking the dense texture, and setting off the clean red berry fruits and fresh acidity.
Very much in line with SEV's fine 2009 Chardonnay, this is sourced from the Lewis Vineyard. Instantly round and fruity, it offers up a ripe mix of oranges and apricots, backed with juicy acidity. Then it brings in the butter, toast and nuts—a full-bodied, extremely generous wine.
Very much in the food style of Bordeaux, this wine shows the freshness of the 2006 vintage, while also offering some ripe weight. Flavors of fresh black currants edged with black plum skin are supported by a firm line of tannins, finished with a sweet, juicy, fleshy aftertaste.
Very much in the style of the light whites of Gascony, this is crisp with apple and grapefruit flavor, herbaceous and clean as a whistle. It's ready to drink, but keep a few months if you'd like a softer character. Screwcap.
Very much in the vein of a super-oaked, ripe Chardonnay, bursting with peach and tropical aromas and flavors, but with a distinctly nutty, minerally, almost steely note and an electric jolt of acidity. Judging from the very long, sweet finish, it's got quite a life ahead of it.
Very much like the fine 2009, the winery's new Chardonnay is bone dry and austere, like a Chablis. Highly minerally, with mouthwatering acidity, the fruit flavors veer toward Meyer lemons and limes.
Very much on the ripe, tropical side of Sauvignon Blanc, this is rich and concentrated. There are citrus and toast along with the spice and pineapple. Textured, it is still young and will age.
Very Muscat, very aromatic, this is a light, crowd-pleasing apéritif wine that dances on the palate. It's dry, but the lychee-like perfumed flavor and the spice make it softer and easier. Glass stopper.
Very neutral on the nose, this sparkling blend of Prosecco, Chardonnay and Moscato presents a thin, watery wine with slight, almost invisible shadings of stone fruit and citrus. There's more action in the mouth thanks to its crisp finish and bubbly foam.
Very New World in its ripe, tropical fruit flavors, rounded toasty element, and impressive concentration. Yet the elegance also remains, finishing with spice and light acidity, adding shape to this rich wine.
Very nice and inviting on the nose, with bold black fruit aromas, spice and leathery notes. Feels full and smooth, with dark flavors of berry, chocolate and savory spices. Long and toasty on the finish, with warmth and power.
Very nice Cabernet with a competent mix of earth, black fruit, olive and toast on the nose. The palate is firm, warm and spicy, with good balance and classy flavors of rich berry and chocolate. Lush, just sweet enough, balanced and long on the back end. Drink now through 2012.
Very nice for a 2002. The wine is elegant and delivers aromas of violets, minerals and dried fruits. The palate folds in chocolate and spice along with a layer of blackberry flavor. We wouldn't call it superconcentrated or complex, but it's driven, pure and pleasurable. Smells, weighs and tastes a lot like Bordeaux.
Very nice on the nose, with lime, celery and semisour pickle aromas. There is plenty of character to this round, generous single-vineyard SB from Casablanca. The palate is snappy and citric, while the finish is full of ripe grapefruit and other subtle green notes. A very good wine that borders on excellence. For the money, it's a green-light special.
Very nice red wine but for $112 we want to be forced to take notice, and frankly that doesn't really happen here. Still, the wine goes snap, crackle and pop on both the bouquet and palate. It's a crisp one, with live-wire cherry, cola and spice flavors. Not at all flabby, and instead runs lean and fresh. Good now and maybe better in a few more years.
Very nicely done for a new brand that we haven't seen before. This is Chilean SB in fine form. It's a mix of green and ripe fruits both on the nose and palate. Aromas of gooseberry and mango are alluring, and in the mouth it bounces along on a wave of bracing acidity. Elegant and easier toprocess than Quintay's more pungent, angular and demanding Reserva.
Very nicely done, with full-force berry and plum balancing off mild vegetal/herbal aromas. The palate is ripe, round and textured, with alluring plum, berry, leather and vanilla flavors. It folds in cinnamon and pepper on the finish to bring everything full circle, while keeping the herbal element under control; 60% Carmenère and 40% Malbec.
Very nutty aromas introduce this smooth and creamy wine. It has a rich feel that's fruity and ripe with flavors of spice, vanilla and caramel, as well as red apple. Ready to drink now. Screwcap.
Very oaky and very ripe, offering a flood of pineapple jam, pear, vanilla and toasty oak flavors. Crisp acidity provides needed balance and a clean, brisk mouthfeel.
Very oaky, very buttery, very posh in texture, this wine takes the spicy richness of oak-barrel fermentation and aging to a high level. It's not at all shy about the toast, caramel and baking-spice flavors, with a mouthcoating texture that helps those accents linger on the finish.
Very oaky, with sweet caramel and butterscotch flavors overshadowing the underlying pineapples, pears and limes. But crisp acidity makes for balance, and a firm, stony minerality uplifts and provides structure.
Very opulent and jammy in blackberry, cherry and mocha flavors, this has a strong oak presence in the form of caramelized wood. It defines Napa richness, but it is too tannic and immature to properly enjoy now. Give it a snooze for 6–8 years.
Very opulent in style, this wine is ripe, full bodied and typical of 2009. It is rich and rounded, melding new wood tones and sweet black fruits into a delicious, age-worthy selection.
Very opulent in texture and somewhat sweet in flavor, this wine has black pepper and blackberry aromas, ripe and jammy fruit on the palate and enough grippy tannin to nicely counterbalance the sweetness.
Very opulent, almost too much so, with a flood of Key lime pie, pineapple jam, orange, butterscotch and buttered toast flavors that overwhelm in richness. The saving grace is a fine structure of acidity and minerals and a finish that strives to be dry. Drink now with shellfish, roast pork, or all alone as an apéritif.
Very opulent, very rich, this is a complex, structured wine packed with fruit and brooding tannins. It is already rich, and will develop into a beautifully intense, concentrated and generous wine.
Very pale copper in tone, this is a delicate rosé that's made entirely from Mourvèdre. Hints of peach, melon and a light flower top note are evident.
Very pale in color, this '07 Gewurz, tasted just 6 months after harvest, was a bit muted. Airing brings out rich, spicy aromas and flavors ranging from green apples and peaches to dates, vanilla, wildflowers and dusty spices. The wine was barrel-fermented.
Very pale in color, this is a fruity, fragrant wine. It has acidity, red fruits and a leathery texture. There is something of the undergrowth here, an earthy character that needs time to broaden out. Give the wine 4–5 years.
Very pale in color, this is a light wine with only hints of fruit. The acidity and the crisp texture are there with just touches of soft red berry fruits. Drink now.
Very pale in color, this is a lightly aromatic Merlot with notes of raspberry, cherry, ash and tobacco. The palate is tart with dry, chalky tannins.
Very pale in color, this is a lightly fruity wine that feels fresh, light in flavor, with a final caramel note.
Very pale in color, this is a wine that has memories of fruitiness rather than the fruit itself. It is neutral, soft with acidity at the end and dull.
Very pale in color, this soft and gently fruity wine is almost ethereal in its lightness. It's fresh with attractive acidity, a touch of red currant and orange and refreshing at the end.
Very pale in color, this spice and red-fruit flavored wine is refreshing and crisp. It's a light wine, cut through by acidity and floral undertones. Drink this attractive wine now.
Very pale in color, this widely available Spanish white opens with a melon-lime and slightly floral bouquet. Citrus accents appear on the light- to medium-weight palate, but the floral note turns faintly candied, too. Finishes a bit short, with a little bite. Drink now. —M.M.
Very pale in the glass, this proprietary white blend offers soft peach and sharp lemon juice on the nose as well as cut grass and kiwi fruit. The palate is quick, easy and clean, with green pears and green apples framed by decent acidity.
Very pale, almost transparent, despite alcohol over 14% abv, this very light, citrusy wine carries a background flavor of vitamin pill, and feels a bit flat in the mouth.
Very particular yet still very Riesling. Oily, tight aromas signal intensity, which is delivered on the peach-like palate that turns creamy toward the finish as banana and papaya take over. There's a bitterness throughout, and at points it's interesting while at others it's too much. Also in abundance is the taste of pepper. A unique wine with attitude.
Very peppery and briary, with a slightly green, minty edge to the riper wild berries and tobacco. A good, gutsy Zinfandel of character and a sense of place.
Very peppery even for Syrah. Marked also by intense blackberry jam flavors, it's a full-bodied, tannic bruiser, but one with brooding depth. Decant it a few hours before serving.
Very perfumed and dense, this is a structured, aromatic wine, full of dark berry tones and fine acidity to balance. The dry texture and the solid tannins promise some medium-term aging, so drink after 2015.
Very perfumed aromas of violets and Hawaiian Punch hit the nose. The palate is effervescent and bouncy, with sour pomegranate and fruit skin bitterness.
Very perfumed in character, the wine has a bright red cherry flavor, with some weight and structure. There are good tannins and a warm, soft finish. The wine could age for another year.
Very perfumed in style, this is classic Gewurztraminer. It is full of candy shop flavors and slightly blowsy. It doesn't take itself too seriously, and it's ready to drink now.
Very perfumed Riesling, full of white flowers, hedgerow fruits and fragrant acidity. There is a good granular texture to balance this fruitiness giving a ripe wine that can be drunk now.
Very perfumed wine, from organic grapes, the black plum and black currant flavors rounded by wood and dried with tannins. Flavorful, very friendly, with well-integrated fruit and acidity.
Very perfumed wine, just on the right side of green. The tobacco and dried fruit flavors cut through with intense acidity, breaking out of the dry tannic core.
Very perfumed with wood and strong berry flavors, this stalky, structured wine has tannins that are already well integrated into the spicy, juicy red fruits. Bold flavors and tasty fruitiness are well balanced with the texture and dry core. Drink now.
Very perfumed, it has a rounded character and lightly citrus fruits. There are hints of pineapple as well as pear flavors. It does need to age, so drink from the end of 2014.
Very perfumed, this has a floral character that's allied to a creamed-apple flavor. It's soft and fruity—a quickly developing wine. With its open texture, it is already delicious.
Very perfumed, this is a spicy Traminer with an amount of sweetness. The wine is ripe and rounded, with dominant tropical fruit. The acidity cuts through the richness. Screwcap.
Very perfumed, this is a wine torn between oxidation and freshness. The aromas are nutty and smoky; when tasted, the wine is ripe and fruity, full of apricot and spice. To bring the two sides together, it should age, so drink from 2015.
Very perfumed, this lightly sweet and poised wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Manseng. It has cool acidity as well as wonderfully fragrant fruitiness. The texture gives the wine the potential to age, so drink now and until 2017.
Very perfumed, this wine is exotic and rich with fruit, but also remarkably dry. Drink from 2017.
Very pithy aromas of grapefruit, squeezed lemon, crisp Asian pear and a touch of chalk show on the nose of this bottling, another strong argument about how well this variety can do in cool coastal California. The flavors are light and crisp, with yellow apple and yellow-grapefruit pith most prominent.
Very pleasing aromas of red berries, wet slate and red flowers make for a very floral and fruity entry to this bottling from a single vineyard. The palate is very easy to enjoy as well, with fat red-cherry fruit, decently chalky tannins and hints of licorice and caramel toward the finish.
Very plump, chewy and bold, this masculine wine shows a cheerful and bright side thanks to its ripe fruit aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and black cherry. Careful oak aging has produced strong Indian spice and barbecue tones.
Very polished and pure, if a bit direct and obvious in appeal. A beautiful wine, with pure flavors of currants and cedar. Drinkable now, and should hold through the decade.
Very Pommard, very structured, this is a dense and dark wine that shows big black fruits over dry tannins. It's big, firm, muscular, a powerhouse of firmness and richness.
Very powerful, very strong, almost overwhelming in the sheer wealth of fruit and oak, but balanced with acidity. Winemaker Bob Cabral himself calls it “concentrated.” It detonates on the palate with an almost dessert wine quality of lemons, pineapples, honey, vanilla and minerals, but it's totally dry. Will hold for perhaps six years.
Very pretty and soft upon entry, with tangy boysenberry fruit, this young Syrah is sharply defined and buoyed by sharp acids. Lightly floral and still a bit yeasty, it offers scents of brioche, orange blossom and sweet grape candy. An elegant, feminine Syrah.
Very pretty aromas of rose, violet and perfumed berry lead the nose on this concentrated wine. The juicy palate offers blackberry, black cherry, licorice and white pepper alongside lithe, polished tannins and bright acidity. The succulent finish closes on a mineral note.
Very pretty aromas suggest lychee, Spanish broom, Mediterranean brush and a balsamic sensation. The linear palate delivers nectarine, creamy green apple and savory herb while edgy acidity generates a crisp, clean finish. It closes on an energized mineral note.
Very pretty nose, with plenty of raspberry-focused fruit, and a nice creamy mouthfeel. Delicious, mouth-filling, concentrated wine, with a lot of finesse and a wonderful ripeness. Smooth tannins, long finish, with a touch of toast.
Very pretty, simple and clean, this opens with sharp, tonic perlage followed by etched aromas of talcum powder, citrus and white flower. Overall, this sparkling expression is extremely firm and clean.
Very primary aromas of lime zest and mineral are followed by lightly spritzy, just a hair off-dry citrus flavors backed by bright, tart acidity.
Very primary, with tart blackberry fruit and a slim, refreshing body, suggesting that this young wine could also work well chilled when its lively, uncomplicated nature will show best.
Very pungent aromas, with piercing red fruit and light touches of citrus on the nose. At first it’s shockingly tart and tight, so much so that it might throw you for a loop. After lots of time it breathes itself to life, where raspberry essence rises up. Time may allow it to shine, but now it’s hard and astringent.
Very pungent in gooseberry aromas, this ultra-dry wine is crisp in mouthwatering acidity. The flavors are of grapefruits, orange rind, vanilla and spice.
Very pure and lifted notes of red cherry are held tightly within a taut frame: the nose gives almost nothing away. The palate provides another glimpse of that hauntingly delicious, almost sublimated cherry note. There is something aromatic and pure, unforced and honest about this disarming wine. The structure is subtle but firm, the elegance borders on the Pinot-esque, thus the wine is slender but profound.
Very pure and totally appetizing notes of ripe pear and juicy Golden Delicious Apple fill the nose. The same insistent lively fruitiness pervades the taut, dry and very juicy palate alongside a blazing vein of lemon freshness. This is full of fruit, life and freshness. The finish has a lifted touch of conifer and is totally refreshing and whistle clean.
Very pure Chardonnay from the heart of the Côte de Blancs. It has all the minerality of the vintage while also boasting tropical fruit flavors. It's already a delicious wine, with its tight edge of acidity, but could certainly age.
Very pure fruit notes of yellow, ripe pear mingle with fresh citrus zest on nose and palate of this supercrisp Grüner. The aftertaste reinforces that wonderful pepperiness and lends extra vivacity to this streamlined, dynamic wine. Very moreish.
Very pure in blackberries and black currants, this expresses the classic taste of Cabernet Sauvignon. New oak adds a lovely veneer of smoky, cedary cigar box. It's beautiful to drink now for the soft, velvety texture and appealingly sweet complexity, but should age gradually for many years.
Very pure in character, a wine that expresses the chalk terroir. Minerality and complexities of bright acidity, flavors of pear juice and grapefruit presage a final hint of honey.
Very pure lemon and toast flavors dominate this wine. It has crispness, intense freshness and lively acidity. There is also a sense of richness that is slowly developing and that will broaden the wine over the next several months.
Very pure notes of cherry and strawberry pervade this wine. They are perfumed with a slight conifer scent that spells freshness and lifted ease. The palate has an unforced, elegant concentration. This is charming and fresh, with convincing depth, purity and a lasting, fresh finish.
Very pure notes of conference pear charm on the nose and palate, which is taut and slender. A citric verve makes for liveliness. With some air, subtler notes of pepper appear alongside gossamer-like phenolics. Typical for the 2014 vintage this is light but also clean with subtle, earthy spice. No fewer than 17 co-planted varieties from an old vineyard go into this. Savor that pepper.
Very pure notes of Conference pear rise from the glass and promise freshness. The palate reprises the same fruitiness but streamlines it with grapefruit zest and juicy bone-dry concentration. This is bright and sprightly, energetic and invigorating, slender but packed with flavor. The finish is uncompromisingly fresh and dry.
Very pure notes of freshly cut, tart but ripe apples fill the nose, but there is also a slight perfume of fir forest and lemon zest. The palate is ripe and shows a dry but nonetheless lusciously ripe core, all straightened and brightened by fresh, lemony acidity. This has both balance and drama and is a joy to drink.
Very pure notes of red apple and Bosc pear on the nose relax into a juicy, delicious mix on the dry, poised palate. The abundance of fruit cannot conceal the absolute purity and concentration at the core of this dry, structured wine. This strikes a wonderful balance and finishes dry and long.
Very pure, creamy fruit with acidity and green plum flavors. There is a fine, underlying tension that translates into a tight acidity and spice to finish.
Very pure, this has a clean strawberry flavor, with exhilarating acidity. The wine has some structure and firm tannins, although its fruitiness is the dominant factor.
Very pure—this has a straight line of acidity right to the wine's citrus- and pineapple-flavored heart. It is structured and taut, with its acidity dominant. It is concentrated and ready to age for 2–3 years.
Very recognisably Pinot Noir, even if not Burgundian, this is an earthy wine that is full of spice and secondary, mature flavors. It is rich and impressively full while keeping the perfumed Pinot character. The wine, from a portion of the Château Montus vineyard, is ready to drink.
Very red and slightly grassy on the nose, with aromas of strawberry, mint leaf and rhubarb. It's a juicy screamer in the mouth, with intensity, blazing acidity and wild raspberry and plum flavors. Dry, tight and long on the finish.
Very refreshing, this is a lightly textured wine with juicy acidity and lemon fruits. It is bright and soft, cut by lively acidity that makes it delicious for the summer.
Very reliable and rewarding for everyday drinking, this wine packs lush black cherries, well-integrated purple flowers, savory roasted beef and touches of salted caramel and oak into the nose. Cooked blueberries, caramel and French-toast flavors show on the palate.
Very restrained aromas of Meyer-lemon pith, apple blossoms and scratched Key lime show on the nose of this appellation blend. There is a slightly burnt butter character to the sip, where touches of sweet corn and vanilla meet with citrus tang. Altogether, it's a very light expression of the region.
Very rich and classically structured, a wine that shows real Merlot personality. The red cherry, cola, red licorice, sandalwood and peppery spice flavors are almost Pinot Noir-like, except for the tannins, which have the weight of Bordeaux. Should develop through 2012.
Very rich and complex, in the manner of Sanguis, with intricate layers of berries, mocha, leather and new oak, highlighted with a burst of citrusy acids. The tannins are pure and fine, the mouthfeel is smoothly tannic, and the finish is long and spicy. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache and Viognier, it's one of the most unique wines in California.
Very rich and deliciously smooth, but with a bite of acidity and stalky black-currant fruit to give it structure. This wine is dry, ripe and dense, showing its tannins while promising longevity.
Very rich and dense, and with the firm tannins, might be a candidate for some limited time in the cellar. Shows concentrated blackberry and cherry pie filling flavors, with milk chocolate and spicy oak layers. Try after 2008.
Very rich and dramatic, a fine Pinot, and it's nice to see this veteran winery continue at such a high level. With a near-perfect structure of acidity and tannins, it offers lush flavors of cherries, raspberries, cotton candy, sweet vanilla, granola and cinnamon spices. Grows better and better in the glass.
Very rich and elaborate with blackberry, cherry and cassis flavors, this wine is so tasty, it's easy to drink glass after glass. The tannins are firm, but soft and complex. Made from all the classic Bordeaux varieties, it's classy and elegant, and will hold in the bottle for years.
Very rich and elegantly structured, this shows the talented viticulture and superior winemaking. Bone dry, it has powerful flavors of cherry pie filling, cola and pomegranate, with a mouthwatering spiciness. The acidity is notable. Try pairing this with a salted and peppered steak.
Very rich and extracted, with massive flavors of blackberries, cherries and currants that taste like they were baked into a pastry, and sprinkled with cocoa, anise, vanilla and a touch of salt and black pepper. Delicious and forward, and should hold steady over the next six years.
Very rich and flamboyant, this could only have grown in a New World climate. In fact it's from a coastal vineyard. Ripe and expressive in raspberries, cherries, sandalwood and spices, the richness is balanced with crisp acidity. Drink over the next three years for freshness.
Very rich and fruit-forward in currants, cola, cedar and figs, with an exotic complexity suggesting dried dates and figs. Delicious, but a bit full-bodied and heavy. Could develop.
Very rich and fruity, offering waves of ripe crushed pineapples, pears, vanilla bean, buttered popcorn and spices. What it lacks in subtlety it makes up for in sheer power.
Very rich and fruity, yet it tastes pretty sweet. If you enjoy a candied blackberry flavor, this could be for you.
Very rich and full-bodied for a brut, with pronounced citrus and smoke aromas and a hint of honeyed vanilla. Turns ripe and toasty in the mouth, with big, forward lime flavors. High acidity provides a nice backbone, while exceptional balance keeps it tight and focused. A dry, austere, palate-cleansing finish completes the picture.
Very rich and honeyed, a powerhouse Chard oozing with pineapple jam, crème brûlée, and coconut candy flavors. For all its sweet mouthfeel, the wine is dry and crisp in brilliant acidity.
Very rich and jammy, this full-bodied wine grown at 2,500 feet has spicy oak aromas, lavishly ripe blackberry and dried cherry flavors and a mouth-coating texture. Its vanilla, nutmeg and toasted bread aromas meld nicely with all the fruit notes for a complex, showy, wine.
Very rich and juvenile now, with exotic cherry, blackberry, gingerbread, tangerine, herb tea, vanilla oak and spice flavors, this Zin has a thick, tannic intensity that needs time to mature. The power and concentration must come from the mountain vineyard, on the eastern side of the valley. Hold this dramatic, high-alcohol Zinfandel until mid-2008, at least.
Very rich and oaky, with bigtime flavors of grilled pineapples and peaches, pears, buttered toast and oak spices. Only 250 cases produced.
Very rich and oaky, with ripe pineapple, orange, pear, lime, buttered toast and vanilla custard flavors. Bright acidity makes the finish clean and zesty. Don't drink it too cold.
Very rich and opulent, if a little soft, offering a flood of orange cream pie, meringue, butterscotch and cinnamon spice flavors. Delicious, if a bit one-dimensional. Try as an alternative to an oaky Chardonnay.
Very rich and opulent, in the Heidi Barrett style, this Cabernet is sweetly jammy but somewhat direct in blackberries, cherries and raspberries. The finish is extraordinarily long and spicy, an indication that it's a wine for the cellar. Firm tannins and fine acidity confirm its ageability. Hold this flashy, decadent wine until 2016 and then try it again.
Very rich and opulent. You can taste how the grapes had a long season to grow enormously ripe, delivering flavors of pineapples, pears and golden mangoes. Yet the cool vintage also preserved vital acidity. A delightful young Chardonnay for drinking now with upscale fare.
Very rich and packed with yellow and tropical fruits, this is a complex, wood-aged wine. It has a strong toasty edge that gives burnt spice that is balanced by the rich fruitiness. Acidity follows, making an appearance in the fresh finish. Drink from 2014.
Very rich and refined, this features sleek acidity and a racy tang of minerality. It really shows how well Sauvignon Blanc grows in a good Santa Ynez Valley vineyard. The tropical fruit, pear and green apple flavors have tantalizing hints of gooseberry and smoky oak.
Very rich and ripe, marked by pure, intense flavors of cherries, blueberries and spicy cloves. It displays the balanced elegance and thoughtful winemaking of this winery. Young and juicy now, it should develop in the bottle for a year or two, but some sharpness in the finish will ultimately limit ageability.
Very rich and ripe, with luxurious blackberry and cherry jam, chocolate and sweet oak flavors. Feels soft and complex in the mouth, with thick but gentle tannins. It's a little generic, in the modern style, but tasty.
Very rich and ripe, with masses of cherries, red currants and mocha that finish thoroughly dry and spicy. Full-bodied, too, almost like Grenache. Quite good, but a bit ungainly in youth. Needs a few years in the bottle. 2010–2013.
Very rich and smooth in texture, like pure velvet, this Bordeaux-style blend has lots of tannins that are soft, ripe and easy. It offers extraordinary waves of blackberry, black currant, dark chocolate and caramelized oak flavors. Drink soon for maximum enjoyment.
Very rich and sumptuous, if a little heavy. It's delicious and complex, with cherry, mocha and red currant flavors that finish sweet and spicy. You'll experience a hit of tannins that provides structure, but makes the wine slightly unaccessible. Aging is a gamble, given a certain pruniness on the finish.
Very rich and unctuous, this superripe bottling has buttery honey and hints of English breakfast tea notes that add flavor interest to the sweet, almost sugary Riesling.
Very rich and voluptuous, this has ripe blackberry fruit that has a roasted character, as if the berries spent a moment on the grill. It's deep and impressive, showing tiers of complexity, but it's also very tannic, with a dry, astringent kick that makes it seemingly undrinkable now. Made from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, with a drop of Petit Verdot, it's a wine that needs considerable time in the cellar. Hold until after 2018.
Very rich aromas of cherry, blueberry syrup and hot blackberry jam-filled pastry greet the nose. So the sour cherry and tart cranberry flavors are surprising on this medium-bodied wine, which also picks up interesting peppery notes into a lingering finish.
Very rich aromatically in golden Santa Rosa plum, raisins and lemon chiffon, this new producer's Chardonnay has a touch of caramel popcorn and is delicately dense with a nice lift on the finish.
Very rich for any Burgundy, this is plump with ginger and pepper as well as yellow fruits. The acidity has been diminished by the ripe fruit, although the wine still has a crisp aftertaste. Drink the wine now.
Very rich in blackberries and cassis, almost sweet, and the oak adds to the impression of sweetness with smoky caramel. Almost chocolaty, with a minty tang. Definitely in the modern style, soft and flashy. We'll see if it ages.
Very rich in blackberries and cassis, with an herbal grounding of sage and tobacco and a dusting of freshly crushed black pepper. You'll find hard-edged tannins and some sharpness to the mouthfeel. A few years of aging are warranted, but this isn't a wine for the long haul. Decant if you drink it now.
Very rich in oak and ripe fruit, with kiwi, lime, pineapple and fig flavors that finish crisp and dry. The oak really stands out with its blast of buttered toast, caramel and woodspice.
Very rich in oak, with massive buttered toast, caramel and crème brûlée flavors. The underlying fruit is good, suggesting pineapples and ripe peaches, but misses a beat for all that winemaker intervention. Drink now.
Very rich in texture and lightly sweet in flavor, this wine smells citrusy and crisp but tastes full and soft. It has ripe pear and peach flavors and a lingering, honey-like finish.
Very rich in texture while also balanced, this is a wine that shows extreme concentration—honey, yellow fruits and final sugar all wrapped in lively acidity.
Very rich in tropical fruit pie filling, cotton candy, raspberry sorbet and caramelized vanilla flavors. Tastes a little too sweet, although it's balanced with good acids.
Very rich in tropical fruit, orange, apricot, lime, Asian pear and honey flavors, this tastes like an orchard in a glass. It's so powerful in fruity essence that it tastes sweet until the finish, which turns nicely dry and crisp in acidity. It defines Viogner's exotic, unctuous side. Nice now with today's modern Asian fusion fare.
Very rich style of wine from 50-year-old vines. It is smooth, opulent almost, packed with pure pink grapefruit along with an herbal, grassy character. Concentration is the hallmark of this fine wine.
Very rich, almost overripe pear dominates the palate, which also has a rich marzipan edge. Residual sugar is just about cut by citrus freshness. This is at the cusp of being just a little too much.
Very rich, almost soupy, this is an enjoyable wine, not hugely structured and therefore not likely to age long. But in 2–3 years, drink this for its plumy fruits, its dried fruit richness and its light tannins.
Very rich, as you might expect from botrytised Chardonnay. It remains surprisingly young, no sign of 11 years' aging, with the acidity coming through freshly over the maple syrup and baked apple flavors. The finish brings the acidity right up front.
Very rich, but a little heavy, this features orange, pineapple and mango flavors that are reminiscent of a juice drink. The sweet-tasting finish gives it a candied edge.
Very rich, concentrated and intense, almost jammy, showing the essence of ripe blackberry and cherry fruit nectar. Oak shows up as rich, smoky char. With firm tannins and a long, sweet, fruity finish, this Cabernet should age well. Too young and tight now, so give it until at least 2014.
Very rich, creamy and oaky, made in the ripe, California style of Chardonnay. Brims with buttered toast, vanilla cream, and caramelized wood aromas and flavors riding over underlying pineapples, pears and limes. Flamboyant, if a little top-heavy. Ready now.
Very rich, extracted and soft in tannins and acids, a melt-in-your-mouth Zin with almost sweet flavors of milk chocolate, crushed ripe cherries, licorice, caramelized wood and oodles of black pepper. Should develop over the next 4–6 years.
Very rich, oaky and acidic, showing the crisp, minerally profile that usually marks white wines from this Monterey appellation. The flavors veer toward lemons, limes and Asian pears. Drink this drily elegant Chardonnay now.
Very rich, one of the more exotic Pinot Grigios on the market. Shows the variety's crispness and citrus, pear, floral, and spice flavors, with the honeyed creaminess of a barrel-fermented Chardonnay.
Very rich, opulent and ripe with oak-driven aromas of vanilla, chocolate, licorice and spice, this is a dark Riserva with loads of personality and almost impenetrable density. It imparts a smooth, silky feel thanks to the quality of its tannins and ends with a chewy bite of plump cherry.
Very rich, reflecting 100% barrel fermentation in partial new oak and 100% malolactic fermentation. Under the creamy lees and buttered toast are scads of pineapples, pears and papayas. The grapes come from the Nielson Vineyard.
Very rich, ripe and bold, in the way of Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noirs, with mouth filling cherry, raspberry, red plum and mocha flavors, enhanced with smoky oak. Tasty, but a bit ponderous, with some sharpness through the finish. Try cellaring for 4–5 years and see where it goes.
Very rich, ripe and complex, showing a near-perfect display of flavors and textures. The riper blackberries and black cherries have a chewy, meaty edge, with notes of cola and bacon. Very fine tannins and acidity suggest midterm to longterm aging, but it's a splendid sipper now. Should develop through 2018, at least.
Very rich, ripe and dramatically textured, this has explosive flavors of blackberry, crème de cassis, dried herb and smoked meat flavors, enriched by smoky oak. It shows the tough, hard tannins you often find in low production mountain Cabernets. Made by the well-known consulting winemaker, Philippe Melka, it has the structure of a wine that needs age. Give it at least eight years, and it could be one that lasts decades.
Very rich, ripe and dry, a Merlot with a drop of Cabernet that needs a year or two to resolve. It's fat and fleshy in cherries, violets, red currants and cola, with a dusting of cocoa, pepper and cinnamon. The tannins are ample, but very finely ground. Hold until 2011.
Very rich, ripe and oaky, but something of a fruit-oak bomb. Blasts the palate with pineapple jam, toasty meringue, caramel and buttered toast aromas and flavors. Lacks subtlety.
Very rich, ripe wine, full and round in character. It has spice from wood aging as well as almost-sweet yellow fruits. Pineapple acidity does give some balance to this powerful white wine.
Very rich, spicy and full-bodied for a rosé. The raspberry and strawberry flavors have a grilled, caramelized quality, making for a slightly sweet finish. Fortunately, there is high acidity, giving this high octane rosé needed crispness.
Very rich, this is all about structure and pure elegance. Flavors are of fresh white fruits with touches of green pepper, alongside honey, lemon and crisp sweetness. A wine for aging.
Very rich, this perfumed wine has considerable weight. It is powerful, perhaps too powerful, and its dense fruits and structure don't fit the norm of Provence rosés.
Very rich, this ripe and rounded wine is typical of the powerful 2010 vintage. It's dense and concentrated, packed with black plum and sweet berry fruits. It shows a dense structure along with juicy fruits. It could be over the top, but the acidity and tannins hold it back. Drink from 2018.
Very rich, very complicated, a young, dense, grapey wine that clearly needs time to come around. Dry and balanced in acids and tannins, it shows brilliantly ripe blackberry, black cherry and cola flavors, with an earthy note the Brits used to call beetroot. Give it until after 2009 to begin to mellow.
Very rich, very flamboyant, a Chardonnay that rocks your palate with flavor, yet has the acidic structure and dryness to keep it from going over the top. Pure Bien Nacido in the wealth of tropical fruit and spice flavors, so nicely balanced with a deft touch of oak. It represents a step above the '05 and is a wine to watch.
Very rich, with freshly crushed pineapple, grilled ripe peach, buttered toast and caramelized vanilla cream flavors. Could have greater structure, as it's a little soft for all that weight, but it's a fancy Chardonnay.
Very ripe and a little heavy, this Pinot has impressive flavors of crushed blackberries and cherries, with a spicy, licorice and cola finish. Drink now through 2010.
Very ripe and almost sweet in jammy, pie-filling cherries and raspberries, with a rich seasoning of cinnamon, brown sugar and cocoa. But it's technically dry, and has a crispness from fine Arroyo Seco acidity. Drink now.
Very ripe and bright in acidity, with clean, vibrant flavors of Meyer lemon custard, Key lime pie, vanilla sorbet and crème brûlée flavors. Could be more elegant, but it's certainly not shy.
Very ripe and Burgundian in the wealth of flamboyant pineapples, guavas, minerals, buttered toast, crème brûlée and vanilla, wrapped into a creamy, leesy texture. A bit unfocused now, and should be best by the Fall of 2009.
Very ripe and concentrated, this wine offers fruit-forward peach and pear flavors. There is also a hint of mango, and a sense of toastiness and smooth texture, although the acidity is never far away. Give the wine another year to mature.
Very ripe and deliciously forward in cherries, cola, bacon, anise and sweet smoky sandalwood, with silky tannins. The acidity is a bit low, giving the wine a softness that limits ageability. Now–2011.
Very ripe and extracted, just oozing the flavors of melted blackberry jam, black raspberry purée and milk chocolate. A bit sweet, but saved by firm tannins.
Very ripe and extracted, this has flavors of blackberries and cherries that are a bit heavy-handed. There's a lot of oak influence, too, which adds to the heaviness.
Very ripe and flashy, but a little too sweet. Shows sugary raspberry and cherry jam flavors, with lots of zippy acidity.
Very ripe and forward Cabernet, with jammy blackberry and cherry, spice and earthy flavors, as well as lots of sweet, toasty oak. It's satisfying to drink now.
Very ripe and forward in baked fruit or pie-filling flavors of cherries and raspberries, spiced with cinnamon, anise and nutmeg. The wine is a bit simple and is ready to drink now.
Very ripe and forward in candied black cherries, violets, cedar and mocha, with plenty of sweet toasty oak. Feels a bit chunky in the mouth. Drink now.
Very ripe and forward in fruit, this Cabernet floods the mouth with cherry fruit flavors, liberally enhanced with the sweet vanilla and toast of oak barrel aging. The tannins are strong but finely ground. Appeals now for sheer beauty.
Very ripe and forward in jammy cherry and blackberry flavors, this blend of Cabernet and Merlot has a milk chocolate edge. It's extracted and not very subtle, but offers a powerhouse of taste.
Very ripe and fruity and ultra smooth in texture, this wine is a treat to drink and a very good value. A touch of sweetness adds to the supple mouthfeel and helps carry the boysenberry and blueberry notes through the finish.
Very ripe and fruity in character, this wine smells like cherries, raisins and spiced plums, and has a grippy texture from good acidity and moderate tannins for a little bite of astringency.
Very ripe and fruity in the modern style, almost too strong in blackberry jam, black currant and oak flavors that are not particularly subtle or delicate, although the wine is thoroughly dry. The tannins are significant, but negotiable. The suggestion is ageability. Give it 2–4 years and try again.
Very ripe and fruity, in the Paso style, with tiers of sweet red and black cherry pie filling and spice flavors. The acidity, which must come from the Sangiovese, is quite high and a little invasive, but it's a charming wine.
Very ripe and fruity, offering wave after wave of pineapple, orange, mango, peach, green apple and vanilla. Tastes honeyed and ripe in fruity essence, but fundamentally this is a dry wine. Brilliant acidity helps to provide a clean balance.
Very ripe and fruity, this has a rich, glycerine-driven sweetness, like a tangy ruby Port. It's delicious in blackberry jam and caramel flavors, with intricate tannins and fine, citrusy acids.
Very ripe and fruity, this is sort of a second wine from Malibu Estate, with good acidity that makes it crisp. It's an easy sipper with enough peach, pear, pineapple and spicy creamy flavors to satisfy Chard aficionados.
Very ripe and full bodied, this wine has seemingly sweet flavors like cherry and strawberry jam. Low acidity and light tannins give it a soft, almost syrupy texture.
Very ripe and jammy in raspberry and cherry fruit flavors, this Pinot is accented with crisp acidity. Oak barrel aging adds notes of caramel and buttered toast. It's a deliciously dry wine, although a bit direct and obvious. Seems at its best now and for 3–4 years.
Very ripe and jammy, showing primary fruit blackberries, cherries, black currants and cola, and lots of new, smoky oak. A big wine wrapped into big, sweet tannins that's tasting a bit direct now. The suggestion is ageability. With the grapes coming off two mountains, Howell and Veeder, it should cruise through the next 6–8 years.
Very ripe and oaky, what this wine may lack in subtlety it makes up for in sheer power. Bursts with ripe, candied pineapple and lemon honey flavors that finish sweet.
Very ripe and oaky. Bursts with pineapple pie filling, tapioca, butterscotch and caramel flavors. Could use some complexity and restraint.
Very ripe and obviously fruity aromas and flavors are coated with sweet-seeming oak notes that resemble vanilla and maple syrup. The wine is medium bodied and just moderately tannic.
Very ripe and rich in cherries, cola and sweet red currants, with a jacket of toasty oak. Although this wine is silky in texture, there's a heaviness that makes it Grenache-like. Drink now–2015.
Very ripe and rich, this has a smooth, oily texture, with a perfumed fruit character and just a hint of acidity. The wine feels fat and is not for aging.
Very ripe and soft, this has blackberry, plum and chocolate flavors that veer toward prune and raisin territory. It's dry, spicy and a little hot, but is a great example of a warm-climate Zin at the highest level.
Very ripe and spicy, with a sprinkle of dusty Christmas spices tanging up the wild cherry, raspberry, licorice and Dr. Pepper cola flavors. Zin doesn't get much richer, but this one could be a little firmer in structure. Drink now.
Very ripe and sumptuous notes of blueberry pie make for an appetizing proposition. This blueberry fruit plays the major role on this medium-bodied but fresh, easy-drinking red. It is full of joy and provides a dense, balance palate of ripeness and ease.
Very ripe and sweet in orange, lemon and lime flavors that are almost sugary, like a fruit drink. At the same time, there's a brisk cut of acidity. The result feels odd.
Very ripe apple aromas mix with light peach and summer melon on the nose of this light and refreshing sipper from the family's Edna Valley property. It's clean and tight on the palate, showing more stone fruit, lime skins and a racy minerality.
Very ripe aromas and flavors resemble sweet raisins and prunes, but the flavors are dry and more savory than outright fruity. Black pepper, dark chocolate and charred beef notes seem perfect to pair with a grilled steak or giant portobello mushroom. It's a big-boned but well-balanced wine.
Very ripe aspects inform the nose: ripe honeyed peach and pear dominate. The palate, on the other hand, is a picture of citric slenderness and steely concentration of freshness. Its absolute dryness highlights the brisk, clean and lemon-driven style perfectly. This is wonderfully bracing and cleansing and so very refreshing. Lovely now but sure to develope. Drink now through 2025.
Very ripe black cherries mix with the smell of roasted chestnuts. The ripeness of the fruit pervades the palate and downs it in lush softness. The tannins are equally pliable. There is just enough freshness to keep the balance. Drink soon.
Very ripe cassis, blackberry and raisiny aromas set up a dry, drawing palate with full tannins. Flavors of lemony oak, burnt toast, lead pencil and roasted black fruits finish woody and chunky.
Very ripe flavors make this wine seem almost sweet and the rich texture coats the mouth, augmenting the syrupy impression. Flavors suggest plump raspberries and fresh blackberries, while the finish brings out milk chocolate.
Very ripe flavors of berries and figs dominate this Cab-centric Bordeaux blend, along with intriguing side notes suggesting melon and cassis, smoke and mocha. It's a big, sexy wine, its fruit flavors backed with thick, ripe, but chalky tannins. If there is a downside, it is that it comes off as a bit monolithic.
Very ripe flavors of yellow pear gain focus on the palate where they are framed by grapefruit zest. There's an earthy pull, too, and lots and lots of texture.
Very ripe fruit and a long bottle maturation gives this wine considerable concentration, richness and exotic flavors of ripe apricots, mandarin oranges and an extra layer of spice. The acidity keeps it all  together.
Very ripe fruit aromas and flavors in this wine resemble dried plums and cherries. The texture feels broad and smooth, with enough firm tannins to give it some grip on the palate. It tastes full bodied and a bit exotic, with some anise and black pepper to enhance the dried-fruit notes.
Very ripe fruit is discernible on nose and palate and gives a sense of generosity with even a touch of spice. Lemony freshness provides a wonderful counterpoint to this generosity and makes for a very appetizing moreish finish.
Very ripe in aroma, almost thick in texture and syrupy in flavor, this wine is full bodied, super fruity and smooth.
Very ripe in blackberries and cherries, with a nice coating of toasty oak, with a long, spicy finish. The texture is a bit aggressive, with sandpapery tannins. Doesn't seem like an ager, so drink now–2015.
Very ripe in cassis, with plenty of smoky oak influence and a spicy, dry finish. This is a bold, tannic young wine, tight and astringent in youth. It needs time in the cellar to soften and meld. Should be best between 2009 and 2011, and live far longer.
Very ripe in fruit, with good acidity and lots of smoky oak. Made in the jammy style of California Chardonnay, it has sweet flavors of pineapples, papayas and buttered toast. Drink now as a cocktail, or try with a rich shellfish risotto.
Very ripe in the modern style, with masses of jammy blackberries, black currants and black cherries and uplifted, smoky notes of oak. The tannins are thick and astringent. One defect is a certain sharpness that lasts through the finish and makes the mouthfeel tart.
Very ripe notes of black cherries set the tone for a fruit-forward, bouncy but fresh and textured red. This has spicy, cinnamon-scented depth and a heart of pure cherry. The body is pliable and toned and has smoky edges of oak.
Very ripe notes of yellow pear appear on the nose. A touch of earthiness adds texture and interest to the palate, as does the merest smidgen of residual sweetness, boosting the fruit flavors. A zesty freshness pulls all into focus. The finish is dry and lasting.
Very ripe notions of pineapple and soft banana are coupled with a fresh, clean earthiness. A phenolic edge lends mouthfeel and structure while citrus zest pervades the palate with freshness and linearity. With more time in glass, a very charming, tender note of ripe conference pear appears. Give this time to unfold. Drink from 2018.
Very ripe notions of red-cheeked mirabelle plums and sun-ripened apricots with an edge of nettle shimmer on the nose. The palate is a clearly delineated but gorgeous canvas for foliage-fringed citrus—mandarin, clementine and tangerine all vie for space while yuzu adds spice and savor. There is generosity and slenderness. The finish is ultra clean and the entire wine is surprisingly approachable. Drink this now and rejoice, or keep it and look forward: In either case, this is a delicious fruity trinket of pure pleasure. Drink 2017–2040.
Very ripe pear and plum notions dominate the nose. The palate has concentration and drive but still blossoms with generous fleshy fruit of great purity. This is an expression of joy and ripeness—of ready overflowing fruit kept taut and in focus by ripe orange freshness. The long finish has a touch of earth.
Very ripe pear fruit is dangerously close to tipping over into cloying richness, almost hinting at cream soda. The palate is less overwhelming. As always, that special streak of Alsace acid saves the day.
Very ripe pear plays on the enticing nose. The palate has the same refreshing and appetizing fruitiness. Lemony brightness pervades the light-bodied palate and makes for a very moreish finish.
Very ripe prune and wild berry flavors fill this full-bodied and rather soft-textured wine. Based on Zinfandel grapes, it is bold in aroma, forward in flavor, smooth in the mouth and tastes a little bit sweet on the finish.
Very ripe wine that tastes of the heat and sunshine of the vintage. It is warm, the peach and pineapple flavors partnering the toast and spicy vanilla. The wine has some power, maybe missing out on acidity.
Very ripe yellow fruits make this a generous, dense, rich wine. A light touch of wood and acidity balance the super-rich character of the wine. Maybe it's all too much—too opulent—but then again, it is delicious.
Very ripe yellow pear mixed with punchy arugula create a contrast that makes this wine hard to put down. Partly aged in large, used acacia barrels, partly in stainless steel, the slender but ripe body is accentuated by the peppery edge. Very moreish with a lovely and long finish.
Very ripe yellow pears set the scene. Richness continues on the palate, with the wine preserving a light touch without sacrificing concentration. Full marks for balance, charm and savory length.
Very ripe yellow plum, immediately tempered by zesty grapefruit, is the chief notion on the nose. The palate seems softer and even has a smoky note. Slender and mineral, this is toned and light-footed. The layered palate pulls to mind very stony soils. Beautiful now but will get even better—if you can wait at all. Drink as of 2017.
Very ripe, almost candied notions of orange and mandarin peel determine the aromatic direction of this streamlined yet ripe Riesling. The flavors play along the entire ripe citrus spectrum: clementine and tangerine are there as well as pink grapefruit. The purity and subtlety, with hints of fragrant citrus leaves, make for a lasting impression and long finish.
Very ripe, almost jammy in apricots, pineapples and pears, this Chard seems sweet, like sugared or honeyed pie-filling. The finish is a bit cloying.
Very ripe, almost like the berry-cherry filling from a pastry, this Zin also has notes of chocolate and sweet roasted coconut. It's rough and ready in the mouth, with jagged tannins, and needs meats and cheeses to balance it.
Very ripe, almost overripe berry fruit greets the nose. Black cherry is in abundance on the palate. This is juicy and full, with notions of compote fruit. The tannins are velvety and ripe, and there is a focusing ray of acid down the middle.
Very ripe, almost pineapple-like notes emanate from the glass. The palate is light and also has ripe tropical notes, shot through with refreshing lemon acidity. The light body turns this into an easy sip, but drink soon while the fruit still lasts.
Very ripe, almost pruney fruit flavors plus full body and a broad, rich texture give this wine amplitude. Made from mostly Mourvèdre, plus Syrah, Grenache and Counoise, it has chocolate, black pepper and jam flavors that fill the mouth and linger on the finish.
Very ripe, almost sweet, like raspberry, cherry and blackberry purée with a sprinkle of brown sugar, cinnamon and pepper. Fortunately there's a tannic, acidic counterpoint to the richness. Ready now.
Very ripe, almost tropical notes of fruit join the characteristic green pear and citrus notes on the nose. The palate has that wonderfully elastic but vivid phenolic edge while more and more juicy pear fruit comes to the fore. Such freshness, such generosity and ease.
Very ripe, as befits 2009, this is still a young wine. It is packed with fruit, some hints of wood, delicious fresh red berries and acidity that balances the firmly tannic core. Keep the wine a year at least for the full richness to develop.
Very ripe, dense and concentrated. Although it's totally dry, the wine shows massive, sweet flavors of blackberry and cherry fruit. Impresses for sheer power, as well as the length of finish. Cellar this youthful beauty for 6–7 years and see what it does.
Very ripe, even superripe, with pie-filling currant, cherry and plum flavors that approach raisin. With its soft texture and smooth tannins, the wine is voluptuous. Drink now.
Very ripe, in the manner of this spectacular vintage, showing a blast of cherry pie filling, black raspberry tart, cola and smoky oak flavors. The acidity is firm and clean. Feels juvenile, with a jamminess that a few years in the cellar should resolve.
Very ripe, juicy and spicy, this is a forward, fruity wine that should be consumed within the year. It has rich plum and jam flavors, light tannins and a soft aftertaste.
Very ripe, juicy green pears are the chief notion on nose and palate. The body is light but boosted by alcoholic heat, there is a lovely seam of freshness and a very clean-cut finish.
Very ripe, juicy pear notes emanate from the glass, but there is also a friendly tinge of yeast. The palate does both notions complete justice, delivering a refreshing but supple, peppery mouthful with a lovely, moreish and lip-smacking finish.
Very ripe, juicy yellow Comice pear seems to drip from this lip-smacking, charming wine. At the core a vein of wonderful, lively acidity gives acidity and lots of drive. For now this concentrated wine shows zesty fruit but it also has stores of minerality.
Very ripe, powerful and extracted, the wine has a bitter edge, a dark and tannic structure and a dense texture. With its edge of cocoa and layers of wood over the blackberry fruits, it's a wine that will need a while before drinking. Drink from 2016.
Very ripe, red-cheeked Mirabelles and orange peel represent the aromatic top notes. With more air, mandarin juice becomes apparent, and the palate is wonderfully taut and concentrated. There is a haunting purity and a strong undertow of earth and stone that soars on the long finish.
Very ripe, rich and fruity, showing powerful blackberry, cassis and cedar flavors. The structure is classic Napa, with firm, dynamic tannins and a fine application of acidity. Feels just great in the mouth, if on the young side. Give this wine three or four years in the cellar.
Very ripe, rich and new-oaky, with dazzling flavors of ripe pineapples, pears, limes, caramel and buttered toast, drizzled with vanilla honey. A crowd-pleasing Chardonnay of enormous power and concentration. Could use a touch more nuance and complexity, but a tremendous wine at a good price for the quality.
Very ripe, rich and oaky, made solidly in the California style. Doesn't leave much to the imagination, but rewards for decadent pineapple, pear, crème brûlée, buttered popcorn and vanilla flavors.
Very ripe, rich, structured wine, exuding power and concentration. It is packed with red fruits and damsons, creating a juicy character and tense mineral acidity. A magnificent wine, for aging.
Very ripe, showing rich, pure varietal flavors of blackberries, cherries, ground pepper, grilled meat, sweet sandalwood and spices. One hundred percent Syrah, it's balanced with great acidity. Really smooth and delicious, and a crowd pleaser. Could develop over the next 4–5 years.
Very ripe, soft and jammy in cherry, raspberry and blood orange pie-filling flavors, this Pinot is made to be opened now. New oak adds a touch of smoke and vanilla. The wine feels dry and silky and lightly elegant in the mouth.
Very ripe, soft and sugary sweet, this Cab has flavors of blackberries, cherries, mocha and caramelized oak. It doesn't really taste like the kind of tannic, ageworthy wine you expect from Diamond Mountain. Drink now.
Very ripe, sweet and oaky, tasting almost like a dessert wine, or at least a melted cherry and plum pastry. Delicious in an obvious way, but lacks complexity, and doesn't seem like an ager. Drink up.
Very ripe, this offers sweet cherry and cinnamon aromas, equally enticing red cherry flavors plus great balance and purity. Full-bodied, it has silky texture and a long finish. A sweet oak influence is evident.
Very ripe, this wine has tropical fruits, a full, soft texture and a mouthfilling floral character. Its mango and peach flavors are deliciously balanced with light, sweet acidity.
Very ripe, to the point of overripe. The blackberries and black currants veer into raisins, and there's a hint of raisinskin tartness that, combined with the strong tannins, adds to the tough mouthfeel. Will probably soften with age, without necessarily gaining complexity.
Very ripe, very fruity and practically oozing across the palate, this full-bodied and very fairly priced wine tastes sweet and lightly tangy. The berry and plum flavors are quite concentrated, keeping the wine focused on fruit and freshness.
Very ripe, very full bodied and very tannic, this wine is bold and tasty. It has raisin and dried plum aromas, a flavor that is warm with alcohol, and a mouthfilling texture.
Very ripe, with a solid structure, this is dense and tannic. Its black plum and berry fruits are rich, jammy and likely to show well with the tannins in a few years. Drink from 2016.
Very ripe, with earthy aromas of black plum, berry liqueur and bitter chocolate. The mouthfeel is meaty and muscular, but not hard. A wall of moderate tannins builds after a few sips, but the overall feel is still soft. The finish is medium in length, with adequate depth.
Very ripe, with mouth filling blackberry, currant, cassis and smoky oak flavors that finish dry and spicy. There's an edge to the tannins that suggests limited ageability.
Very ripe, with powerful grilled blackberry, cassis and smoky oak flavors that are wrapped into strong tannins. The large vineyard is up on Atlas Peak, and the wine shows the slightly rustic, pugnacious quality that can mark Cabs of the appellation. Give it a few years to mellow.
Very roasted notes of coffee, warm leather, tobacco leaves, sagebrush and stewed blackberries show on the nose of this blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Grenache and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The roasted quality carries through the sip, with more coffee and char tones alongside dried plums, crushed gravel and dusty tannins.
Very salmon pink in color, this lively, crisp wine has some weight as well as refreshing fruit. It is full-bodied, with citrus and raspberry fruits, dry and very fresh at the end.
Very Sauvignon in style with marked acidity and a grassy character, this wine has flavors of pure green and crisp white fruits. Apples and quince are balanced by the light texture and fine acidity.
Very Sauvignon, with a strongly herbal character, the wine is crisp, tight and with intense acidity. It is all tangy fruit, ready to drink.
Very savory aromas of roasted lamb, bacon fat, teriyaki and crushed pepper meet with light blueberry and a touch of mint on the nose of this delicious, well-rounded bottling by winemaker Sashi Moorman from the vineyard's oldest blocks. The palate kicks off with a zesty acidity, then come waves of black pepper-crusted beef roast, oregano, bay leaf, dark plum fruit and lavender. The solid structure ensures cellar potential but it's ready to drink today.
Very savory, earthy, even animal notes spice this crunchy cherry-ish, easy-drinking and refreshing red. There is a proper drying, tannic grip on the palate and tons of peppery spice, enlivened by bright freshness. The aftertaste is one of crunchy red, fresh cherry.
Very seductive and flavorful, this smells like a bushel of ripe blackberries and raspberries, and tastes exotic, generous and full of dark fruit notes. Full bodied and velvety textured, it has enough firm acidity and tannin to make it mouthwatering.
Very sharp and acidic, with a powerfully grassy core. It might be thought of as Loire valley-style Sauvignon Blanc, but without the minerality. Herb and lemon rind flavors dominate.
Very shy in aromas, this wine eventually offers slight minerality and the faintest whiff of white peach. The palate is also light, though not unpleasant, showing fresh lime zest and melon flavors.
Very similar in style and feel to the 2005 offering, Wise's 2006 Single Vineyard Chardonnay is a crisp, nicely structured wine with a preponderance of citrus and toasty oak flavors. Apple and pear notes add just the right amount of fleshiness.
Very similar to last year's bottling, Morgan's '06 is pale in color, dry, silky and a little aloof. It's like a shy person who opens up when you get to know them. With firm acidity framing cranberry, rose petal, red cherry, grilled mushroom and spice flavors, it should begin to open up in a year or so.
Very similar to Peju's regular '05 Cab Franc, released a few months earlier, except it tastes much oakier. You'll find the soft structure and cherry, currant and violet flavors, but the toasty oak and caramel are overwhelming.
Very similar to the 2006, Kameron's '07 Bordeaux blend, which is based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, is upfront in blackberry, cherry, cassis, oak and spice flavors. It's quite tannic, with a puckery astringency that suggests needed time in the cellar. Better after 2014.
Very simple and clean, this pretty Lambrusco offers fresh cherry and blueberry with a touch of bitter almond on the close. The wine would pair with pizza piled high with mozzarella cheese.
Very simple and straightforward, this bright wine opens with aromas of lime, cut grass and white peach. It's crisp and lean on the finish.
Very simple and straightforward, this easy expression of Prosecco carries forth crisp aromas of dried grass, pressed flower, honey, peach and citrus. There's creamy foam in the mouth that would pair with mozzarella.
Very slight fresh citrus notes emanate at first and become more pronounced with air, the palate is light and equally lemony, with lovely texture and freshness. A light-footed Chardonnay which is known as Morillon in Styria, that will please those who like aromatic restraint.
Very slight hints of fresh pear peel on nose and palate are joined by fresh lemon concentration on the palate. Chardonnay in the blend provides midpalate texture and with a bit of air there also are notions of riper, jucier yellow pear. Not a showy but rather subtle and light-bodied. Will work on its own or as a versatile accompaniment on the table.
Very slight notes of elderflower play around the crisp apple fruit. The palate is more mellow—its tart freshness countered by ample red apple fruit and the rounding effects of autolysis that highlight fruit and refreshment in every one of its prickles.
Very slight notes of reduction still cling to the wine, but a swirl or two reveals crisp, crunchy red cherry. On the slender palate the fruit is pleasantly tart and even more crunchy but wonderfully vibrant. A refreshing, easy-drinking red. Drink soon.
Very slight notions of honeycomb hover over the nose before giving over to restrained, hazelnutty oak flavors. This is fruity but sprightly, rounded and precise, fresh but medium-bodied. Right now, it is still full of primary fruit flavors—think red apple and citrus—but this will mature beautifully and become ever more mellow, but with pleasing freshness. The long aftertaste is very promising.
Very slight peppery accents peek though the citrus and yeast notes of this light-bodied, very slender wine. The streak of zesty acidity has a peppery edge. Light but refreshing, it's perfect for an enlivening apéritif.
Very slight reduction on the nose shows that these wines—despite their beguiling youthful aromas—are built to last. This has the generous ripeness of plump stone fruit and the edgy freshness of tart, fragrant citrus zest. The palate is precise, streamlined and clean; the finish tells of purity and lasting power. Enjoy now through 2035.
Very smoky aromas, the fruit ripe with sweet blackberry flavors. The wood is still very present, not yet completely integrated; there is a touch of green perhaps from the wood. At the same time, the wine is developing while keeping a fresh streak of acidity.
Very smoky notes of oak become apparent first. This needs some air to open more, when the initial smoke is followed by dark sumptuous floral-tinged berries. The peony-scented blueberry and bramble note is highlighted on the palate by fine freshness. The tannins are ultrafine and gentle, while the wine is full bodied but still taut. This is for the longer run. Drink 2020–2030.
Very smooth and flavorful, this full-bodied wine pairs excellent concentration of dark-fruit flavors with subtle accents of both dark and milk chocolate. Classic varietal cues of black olive, black cherry and a faint hint of rosemary make it complex and interesting to taste. The mouthfeel strikes a good balance between firm, fine-grained tannins and a posh richness that helps the finish linger. Best after 2024.
Very smooth and harmonious, from its cherry, cocoa and smoke-tinged aromatics through the similarly endowed palate, where licorice and cedar notes add further complexity. Balanced, not weighty; it closes with very even tannins and a full, even black-cherry finish with toasty notes. Approachable now; will improve over the next three years.
Very smooth and mouthfilling, this medium-bodied wine has a harmonious feeling about it. Ripe, juicy fruit and cola flavors meet soft tannins, and a broad, expansive texture carries them into the finish.
Very smooth and quietly flavorful, this wine has more almond and vanilla notes than overt fruitiness, making it a subtle treat. It's full-bodied and soft on the palate, with good concentration.
Very smooth in the nose, with fragrant, fresh aromas of flowers, lemon and lime. The dry citrusy palate and soft mouthfeel work perfectly together, while the finish is long, fruity and very pleasant. Quite a tasty sparkler with pure fruit. Its quality is obvious.
Very smooth, almost thick, this is a rich wine in flavor and mouthfeel. It practically oozes over the palate, dripping with ripe pineapple, vanilla and cream, and coats every corner of the mouth before lingering through a long finish. It's full bodied, soft and concentrated.
Very smooth, concentrated blend of Merlot and Blaufränkisch. There are considerable smoky wood flavors along with ripe berry fruit notes and a dark, firm edge that will soften as the wine ages. It has power, density and finishes dry. Age for 5–6 years.
Very smooth, yet mouth-drying with firm tannins, this Cabernet is a bit lean, but it defines the elegance that Napa is capable of. The blackberry and currant flavors are balanced by earthier notes of green olives, cola and dried herbs, while the oak is subtle, even though it's all new. Grows more interesting as it warms in the glass, and the alcohol level is a moderate 13.6%. Blended from all five classic Bordeaux varieties, it will improve in the bottle over the next eight years.
Very soft and creamy, with the open drinking style of many 2000 vintage wines. It has a good solid base of white fruits, apple skins and green almond, with the acidity light and fresh. Drink now.
Very soft and direct in plummy black currant flavors that are so ripe, they veer into plumped raisins and prunes. The wine is fully dry, with refined tannins. Drink now.
Very soft and direct, this Syrah offers lush flavors of blackberries, currants, dark chocolate, smoky oak and pepper. It seems at its best now.
Very soft and dull, it offers white fruits and some acidity. Drink now.
Very soft and easy going, this has rounded peach and apple flavors. The acidity is light, hinting at citrus. Screwcap.
Very soft and gently fruity, this is a rather muffled wine, its structure and fruitiness at a distance from a dry core of tannins. It's a wine that will develop quickly so drink from 2014.
Very soft and light-bodied, almost without tannins, this gentle wine has flavors of cherries, chocolate, orange zest, anise and vanilla. Could use greater structural volume, especially at this price.
Very soft and melted, lacking structure, although the flavors are enormous. They're explosive in blackberries, chocolate, anise and smoky cedar. Despite the flaws, this is a fairly impressive Napa Cabernet for the price.
Very soft and melted, this Cabernet has ripe flavors of blackberries and plums that veer into currants and raisins. Drink now.
Very soft and rich, this wine offers dusty tannins now well integrated into the ripe fruits, It is full of red fruit and some herbal flavors, along with a light level of acidity. Drink now and until 2019.
Very soft and simple, this is fruity, with a light touch of acidity. The wine is fresh and fragrant, hinting at attractive spice, honey and lemon flavors.
Very soft and simple, with candied flavors of blackberries, cocoa, spices and oak. Perfectly fine for drinking now.
Very soft and smooth—like a Michel Rolland version of a Pinot Noir. The berry/cherry flavors are velvety and clean, the tannins supple, the palate seamless. The tang to the finish, showing some unintegrated acids, is the only jarring note.
Very soft and sweet in dessert pastry flavors. Not much structure, but delicious in cherry- and raspberry- pie filling flavors.
Very soft gentle floral hints of honeysuckle rise from the glass. The dry palate amplifies them with peachy fruit on a slender, taut and textured palate. There is a lightness in the step and lovely depth of aromas with a touch of lavender on the finish.
Very soft in the modern style, with flavors of melted milk chocolate, black currants, black cherry jam and black pepper. Could use greater tannin and acid structure.
Very soft notions of ripe, yellow pear with floral overtones create a softer, luscious but completely dry palate. An ideal wine for those who like structure but mellow flavors. The savory edge of Grüner makes itself felt around the edges but never dominates and provides spicy length.
Very soft, an unctuous, rounded wine, all charm, rich fruits, soft tannins and ripeness. It's certainly generous, almost opulent, a wine that rolls around the mouth.
Very soft, creamy in the 1999 vintage style, open and warm. The Chardonnay shows richness, ripeness, with white and yellow fruit flavors, apricots and baked apples, and only the lightest hint of minerality.
Very soft, faint strawberry nose hints at freshness and summery fruit. The palate foams frothily but carries some bitter edges. Nonetheless, the lemony core makes this zero dosage a refreshing, light-hearted apéritif.
Very soft, full-bodied wine that has red berry fruits and a light touch of acidity. There is some concentration with a pepper and spice exoticism to go with the ripe feel.
Very soft, it feels like the vinous equivalent of a creampuff. The fruit is lightly tropical, with notes of caramel and banana, cut through with a streak of citrus and apple.
Very soft, not quite dry, this red wine is ripe and full. It has a gentle structure with some stalky black fruits and ripe tannins. It's very ready to drink.
Very soft, perfumed with bright red cherry fruits, this is a lively rosé, light and bright, lilting on the mouth, finishing with mineral acidity. Screw cap.
Very soft, ripe grapefruit and kumquat flavors, lifted by acidity. The wine is broad, full in the mouth, crispness well integrated. Great final fruit.
Very soft, rounded wine, with yellow fruits, peaches and apricots vying with spice from wood for supremacy. At the heart, there is some steely character, but this is a big-hearted, full-on wine.
Very soft, this has a melted quality to the blackberry, cherry liqueur and cedar flavors. Everything about it is so fine, though it could have a firmer structure. Still, it's an elaborate wine that will pair well with beef or lamb. Drink now.
Very soft, very ripe and generous, the tannins showing but surrounded by fruit flavors that are now morphing into more herbal, tarry, mushroom flavors. The final spice character gives a great complementary burst of taste.
Very soft, with low acidity and a texture as creamy as pudding, this Petite Sirah is made for early drinking. It's frankly delicious, with blackberry, currant, cherry, raspberry, chocolate and pepper-spice flavors that flood the mouth with opulence.
Very solid and deep, with a bouquet of delicious black-currant and dark-cherry fruit and toasty, buttery oak. Very comfortable mouthfeel. Full, with layered fruit and a long and elegant finish that sports big but not sharp tannins. Tight now; hold for three to six years.
Very solid and sturdy, with aromas of apple, lemon-lime, soda cracker and mineral. The palate is fuller and more flavorful than your average cava, with candied apple, papaya, lime and lemon flavors. Dry, pithy and hinting at complexity on the finish.
Very soothing to sip, this is nevertheless a full-bodied wine with generous cherry, raspberry and almost-meaty flavors that flood the palate and spread to the edges of the mouth. The texture is broad and expansive, with only mild tannins.
Very spicy and mineral-like in aroma and flavor, this new Mendocino release from a Napa-based winery is unusual in the intensity of salty, nutty components that dominate the crisp grapefruit and green-apple flavors underneath. Concentrated in flavor, tight and dense in texture, it will need time to reach its peak, and will be best after 2020.
Very spicy and mineral in character, this is a distinct terroir wine, speaking of the gravel and loam soils of the Traisental region. It has richness, complex lychee and mango fruits and a tight texture of acidity and pepper. Screwcap.
Very spicy in character, the wine has a rich feel to it, offering a rounded palate with a touch of mango alongside the more complex almond and spiced pear flavors.
Very spicy on the nose, this sweet wine is ripe, full bodied and fruity. It has a floral character that gives complexity as well as a delicious, refreshing aftertaste. Drink now.
Very spicy, full-in-the-mouth wine. It has just the right amount of acidity to keep it fresh, but its main thrust is towards rich pepper and weight. At the end, a tighter mineral character appears. Keep for 2–3 years.
Very spicy, lychee-flavored wine, rich and concentrated. It is full of this perfumed character, with pepper, sweet spice and an edge of honey.
Very spicy, this soft and rounded wine comes packed with lychee and quince flavors. There is a pepper element to the wine and a gentle spicy aftertaste. Drink now.
Very spicy, yes, but also subtle, marrying exotic bergamot flavors with a structured, mineral texture. It is rich, cut with pepper as well as nutmeg, allowing room for some fresher acidity at the end. Drink from 2016.
Very sprightly lemon notes sprout from the more rounded apple flavors on nose and palate. There is a slight backdrop of autolytic bread notes but a frothy, almost urgent freshness that wants to come to the fore. This might well serve as a palate-freshener between courses. The friendly apple scent makes it a welcome pick-up.
Very stalky and young, this wine has medium-term potential. It shows weight, ripe plum and berry fruits and flavors that go deep. The aftertaste, juicy now, will soon show signs of extra richness. Drink from 2015.
Very stiff and tannic, with hard, stemmy flavors and very little evidence of ripe fruit.
Very stony and chalky sea-shell aromas arise off of this bottling that also benefits from lemon curd and plump Anjou-pear fruit on the edges. A tingling acidity and steely structure frames the palate, where delicate flavors of Key lime and more lemon curd add depth to the tension.
Very straight, firm, a wine that seems to be developing slowly. The blackberry fruits are impressive, rich and pure, and the tannins form a dense core of darkness. The wood is currently showing too strongly, but the fruit will certainly open out in a year or so. An impressive wine, but it needs time.
Very straightforward, it's a dry and zesty Riesling for every day. While the nose gives little, the palate holds freshness and ample texture.
Very strong and concentrated, with intense Key lime pie flavors, brightened with a squeeze of lemony acidity. Oak adds complex notes of buttered toast and vanilla. This powerful young Chardonnay will hold in the bottle for up to six years.
Very strong white peach and lemon blossom aromas meet with roasted chicken, honeysuckle and chamomile on the nose of this bottling. Apple, pear and nectarine show on the palate, as does fresh cherimoya, graphite and more white peach toward the finish.
Very strong, ripe and extracted. The word massive comes to mind. So packed with blackberry and blueberry preserves, it's almost a food group in itself. Then there are the tannins, huge and soft, giving the wine dramatic refinement. Defines the modern style, and shows that Alexander Valley doesn't have to take second place to Napa Valley when it comes to Cabernet Sauvignon.
Very strongly flavored, and needs a salty cut of meat to tame its powers. Explodes with jammy blackberries, blueberries, cherries and raspberries, with a monster blast of black pepper. Bring on the sausages.
Very structured and dark, this is a wine for the long haul. It is concentrated and balanced, still very young and only just hinting at the black fruits that show the rich potential of this wine. Drink from 2020.
Very structured and firm, it has dense tannins that smother the fruitiness along with a herbal character that suggests under-ripe fruit. It will be a short-term wine that will always be tough.
Very structured and firm, this has dense tannins overlaying the black currant fruit. Its dry, solid texture ­dominates, yielding an impressive wine that has fine juicy fruit now and will age well over four years.
Very structured and firm, this has the weight, richness and power that is typical of Echézeaux. It's the tension between the tannins and the ripe black fruits that give this wine its great aging ability and depth of flavor. It needs at least six years.
Very structured and packed with tannins, this has the weight to balance those qualities, promising layers of black fruits as it develops. There's a mineral character here, the tannins in suspension. The aftertaste brings out delicious, lightly salty acidity. Drink from 2018.
Very structured wine that shows its wood aging as well as textured black plum fruits. It has spice, toast and a smoky character. Underneath are blackberry fruits and a strong layer of acidity. Age for 3–4 years.
Very structured wine, firmly anchored to a tannic core. The wine has weight, blackberry fruit and dark cherry flavors. It is rich, full-bodied, with great swathes of juicy fruit and acidity. Drink from 2016.
Very structured wine, ripe with its plum jelly flavors given shape by tannins and acidity. The wine is full in the mouth allowing an attractive edge of tannins at the end.
Very structured, as befits a Vosne-Romanée, even a village wine. The black cherry fruit and layered acidity are combined with a firm and dry tannic core. There is power here, and some aging potential.
Very structured, this solid wine has enough fruit to develop well. It comes from the estate that also produces Barca Velha in the very top vintages. The wine is full, rich and concentrated. The tannins and structure will take time to soften, so wait until 2020.
Very structured, this wood-aged wine is showing more tannin than fruit. Smoky, burnt flavors dominate a wine that is all tannin and dry texture. Only the juicy acidity at the end suggests potential.
Very stylish, but substantial too, with engaging lemon, vanilla, earth and toast aromas. It’s taut and crisp on the palate, where lovely green-apple, lemon and spice flavors shine. A persistent bead, and familiar flavors with an interesting mineral streak play out on the bright finish. Delicious now and will keep well.
Very subtle but the alluring flesh of melon and peeled pear is hinted at here: this spells juiciness and easy, thirst-quenching joy. The palate gives a little backbone to all this pliable, soft fruit. An ideal, almost languid but very fresh summer wine.
Very subtle but ultimately seductive wild cherry notes captivate on the nose, while the body is luscious, rounded, generous and inviting, without an ounce of fat. There are hints of clove and anise, a deep, mellow cherry core and haunting floral hints. Drink 2015–2020.
Very subtle hints of blueberry emerge first, while on the palate they color both texture and flavor of this elegantly structured wine. Peppery spice tinges the aftertaste. This is fine-boned and defined, but with upright, well-bred poise and a subtle rather than in-your-face charm. Drink this now with game and venison or treasure it for another 3–5 years.
Very subtle hints of green and yellow pears play on the nose, intensifying on the palate and coming across round and plump, but not without some straightening, tonic freshness. There is a satisfying depth here, something mineral, and its elegance ensures that it's firm but not overbearing. A testament to what Pinot Blanc can be in the right hands.
Very subtle hints of jasmine and ripe Valencia orange skin gently perfume this soft, subtle, ethereal wine. Gentle sweetness adds to the charm and creates a dreamy mirage of fruit and scent—what lightness of touch. This wine is best savored slowly so every shade of fruit and blossom is encountered and enjoyed.
Very subtle hints of ripe pear on the nose lead to a citrus-dominated palate that has a pleasant bitter-almond edge and a finely textured midpalate. Nonetheless, the zesty freshness is the main feature of this tricky vintage. This is Pinot Gris but not as you know it—here it has the slender verve of a stony, steep site.
Very subtle hints of ripe, red apple hover above the glass. They become more apparent and richer on the slightly spiced palate that also shows hints of pepper and saffron. There is concentration on the palate and ample definition and structure provided by clean, brisk freshness.
Very subtle notes of green and yellow pear peel entice the nose. The palate adds zesty hints of yellow grapefruit peel, pith and flesh that brighten a peppery herbal note reminiscent of arugula and watercress. White pepper is highlighted too. What zest, what life, what energy, what balance. Dangerously good.
Very subtle notions of nettle and ripe, yellow mirabelle plum play on the nose. The palate displays the same juicy notions and bounces with the ample fruit of 2015, tempered by spicy grapefruit zestiness. This offers a wonderful interplay of ripeness and just the right amount of refreshing tartness.
Very supple on the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend has dense black cherry aromas and flavors framed by dill oak.  Earth notes add a touch of complexity and the finish is full, with tobacco-earth accents.  Attractive and easy-to-like as it is, but the wine seems to have the potential for more nuance and dimension than it presently shows.
Very supple wine, with great richness and density. It is all so complete, a pleasure, powerful yet also with sweet opulent fruits layered with dark tannins. For long-term aging.
Very supple, easy notes of ripe apple and ripe green pear make for a charming, superfresh and slender white. Immensely approachable in fruitiness, but not in the least facile. It treads lightly but has subtle impact and tender, fruity length.
Very sweet-smelling, like putting your nose in a bowl of sugar, followed by aromas of ripe pineapple juice, this smooth Sauvignon Blanc from the Michael David folks is sweet through and through.
Very sweet and delicious, a true Port-style wine that's high in acidity and packed with tannins. But the sugar level is so high, it makes the wine drinkable now. The flavors are of chocolate, red currants and vanilla.
Very sweet and honeyed, this dense wine almost has a botrytis character, sweet and dry together. Spice and yellow fruits are balanced with a touch of fresher lemon. This could age; drink from 2017.
Very sweet and honeyed, which makes it easy to drink despite a certain lack of body. Shows rich, exotic flavors of orange tart, tropical fruits, honey, vanilla, crème brûlée and candied ginger. A blend of Muscat and Verdelho.
Very sweet and lush on the nose, and teetering on overripe due to prune and raisin aromas. The palate, meanwhile, is more narrow than you might expect, with big tannins and extract. Tastes of black plum, blackberry and herbal notes. A ripe, loud wine that's a little clumsy but definitely big and fruity. 200 cases made.
Very sweet and rich in honeyed citrus and vanilla flavors, this dessert wine suggests white cookies and cakes as partners. It's not particularly complex, but it is deliciously easy to drink.
Very sweet and supple, this red dessert wine has a light perfume of roses and prunes. Rich, ripe fruit flavors come with a full body and soothing, wrap-around texture. The finish is long and sweet, too.
Very sweet at first, with aromas of cherry cough drop and crème de cassis. Turns cheesy with air, and once the palate arrives be prepared for tangy pie cherry flavors in front of a starchy, lean finish. Offers the basics but nothing more.
Very sweet but a little soft and simple, with blackberry jam and chocolate flavors. The blend is Touriga Nacional, Sousa and Syrah.
Very sweet in black cherry and chocolate flavors, basically a Port-style wine, yet too soft, with a melted candybar feeling. Would benefit from greater acidic structure, but it sure is delicious.
Very sweet in honey and bubbling brown sugar, with a nice fruity core of blackberries and mocha. Could be a little more concentrated and focused, with a simple finish, but it gets the job done with admirable dessert wine hedonism.
Very sweet in white sugared apricot and tangerine flavors, this wine fortunately has enough crisp acidity for balance. Caters to the current liking for sweet Moscato.
Very sweet in white sugared orange and vanilla flavors, like a honey-nut candy bar. Will satisfy Chard lovers with a sweet tooth
Very sweet on the nose, this has aromas of prune, raisin and nutmeg. It feels surprisingly acidic given the sweet-leaning aromas, with full tannins and berry and smoky oak flavors. The finish is tasty and long.
Very sweet, but the raspberry and cherry fruit is thin, making the wine ultimately unsatisfying.
Very sweet, this dessert wine has potent flavors of tangerines, apricots, honey, butterscotch and vanilla. Crisp acidity provides clean balance. Delicious and heady.
Very sweet, this has honeyed-apricot, orange and vanilla flavors. It's an opulent wine, but as rich as it is, you find yourself wishing it were even sweeter.
Very sweet, with honeyed flavors of apricots, peaches and vanilla crème brûlée, but lacks the acidity a sweet wine needs for liveliness.
Very sweet, with white sugar, raspberry, chocolate and sweet vanilla bean flavors, enriched with the glycerine of high alcohol. There's fine acidity and tannins, yet the fruity concentration falls short. Drink up.
Very tangy in texture, it has spice from wood aging and a crisply fresh character. It is bright and light, and very lemony at the end.
Very tannic and concentrated, this is a dry wine with a chunky structure and a dark, firm feel. Plum skin and black currant notes are behind the scenes; this wine needs at least three more years of aging.
Very tannic and dry, especially for a 2007 Cabernet, not showing the fatness and opulence of that acclaimed vintage. There are some buried treasure blackberry and cassis flavors, but the wine is so tough, you have to wonder if it will ever come around.
Very tannic and gritty now. Shuts the fruit down with a dry, sandpapery astringency. But what great fruit. It's rich in blackberries, black cherries, currants, licorice and mocha, and is bone dry. Could and should age, but there's a certain sharpness that makes you wonder.
very tannic wine, with an astringent, dry mouthfeel, but it's so rich in fruit, it's enjoyable now. Floods the mouth with blackberry, cherry, plum, currant and dark chocolate flavors, edged with dusty spices. Should develop over the next six years, but if you can't wait, give it a good long decant.
Very tart, almost sour in acidity, with unnaturally sweet pineapple, buttered toast and caramel flavors.
Very tart, almost sour, this high-acid wine just might be a good match for fresh oysters, but on its own it is slightly bitter and barely ripe.
Very tart, with a deep, tannic, earthy mineral streak. There's an iron/earth streak running through all Abacela wines; here it comes across as iron and slightly bitter licorice. This is still very young and green; the score might well improve with more time in the bottle.
Very tart, with barely ripe flavors of rhubarb and wild raspberries, this late release is already showing bricking around the rim. It's high in acid but low in fruit flavor, and from the looks of it, should be consumed immediately.
Very tasty and large in scale, it sports a huge nose of dark plum and heavy cedar, along with cinnamon and vanilla accents wrapped in very toasty oak. Very dark fruit with licorice shadings and an elegant, supple mouthfeel add to the appeal. The dark flavors and heavy toast continue on the long finish, which doesn't want to quit.
Very tasty and well-balanced, this wine is fresh, smooth and easy to enjoy, and it stayed that way for two days after tasting. It has delicious red cherry and cranberry flavors that blend nicely with the lively texture and medium body. Just the thing when a slightly lighter, more refreshing red is called for.
Very tasty fruit flavors showcase pretty berries, especially raspberries, with a hint of mint and fresh herb. It's front-loaded and ready to drink immediately.
Very tasty, this full-bodied but not heavy wine has an earthy, irony vein running through ripe fruit and black-pepper flavors, giving it unusual complexity. The balance is good, lending a smooth but lively feeling on the palate.
Very tasty, this medium-bodied version puts forward bright raspberry and ripe red cherry aromas and flavor. Not too big or bold, it's well-balanced with acidity and moderate tannins to bolster the fruit flavors.
Very tender notes of baked apple and faint hints of creamy autolysis rise from the glass. The palate is tart and brisk, reminiscent of white currant and pale lemon. Slenderness is enlivened by the dosage which lends overtones of elderflower. Fine bubbles add welcome creaminess and leave you thoroughly refreshed.
Very tentative hints of earthy red fruit are all that can be discerned on the nose. The palate is lithe and soft and slightly edged with fine sprays of white pepper amidst very tender red fruit: is it cranberry? Red fruit just shimmers through and wants to be coaxed out. The delicate aftertaste of forest floor, cranberry and pepper is a joy.
Very terroir-driven from chalk soil in this great vineyard, this firmly structured wine is powerful and solid. There is a mineral character at this stage of the wine's development, with 60% new wood giving a lightly smoky feel. Drink from 2017.
Very textured wine, hinting at fruit that is only just ripe. This light and fragrant wine has red currant fruits and a smoky character. Probably not for aging.
Very textured wine, with apple skin tautness, followed by acidity, a touch of wood, and final spice. Attractive wine that could age for 1–2 years.
Very thick and syrupy, this is a sticky wine with thick concentration and vegetal notes of green spice, blackberry and milled peppercorn. It's dense, rich and succulent with chewy tannins on the close.
Very thin and yet tannic at the same time, this Tempranillo shares some classic traits of the grape, from earthy cherry to tobacco, even a suggestion of rose water, but it's all fairly understated and quick to end.
Very tight and Chablis-like in style, this bottling from Richard and Thekla Sanford shows crisp Asian pear, lemon pith, Pink Lady apple rinds, wet concrete and a touch of petrol on the nose. The palate is light and fresh, with yellow pear, nectarine and a lemon skin-led acidity, possessing all the bones to age with style.
Very tight and coiled, the freshness of this wine acts as a counterweight to its intense, smoky, ripe fruit flavors. It is so balanced, yet still so young, this is a wine that needs at least 10 years to show its true richness and power.
Very tight and crisp, this is an intensely dry wine with pristine citrus and apple-skin aromas and flavors. A steely, nervy, mineral character lends the wine a distinct ageability. Drink now–2022.
Very tight and linear in all the right ways, this focused wine shows black raspberry, sweet hummingbird sage, clove butter and star anise on the nose. It's even lighter on the palate, where potpourri, olallieberry, black pepper and pencil lead converge. It will age gracefully, thanks to judicious acid and tannins. Drink 2018 through 2028.
Very tight and shy aromas of lime zest, gray slate and white rocks show on the nose of this wine from the pioneering Niven Family and their winemaker Christian Roguenant. The palate shows some grassiness, Mexican lime and an interesting warmth on the back end, proving quite lean and sharp.
Very tight and young, this is packed with acidity and lively citrus and green apple flavors. It is still too young to drink although with its tangy freshness and bright character, it has a good future. Drink from 2017.
Very tight in the nose, with hints of peanuts. A cinnamon nuance provides an exotic edge to the otherwise straightforward, somewhat tart cherry palate. Buttery oak and more tangy cherries dominate the finish.
Very tight now, with minerally, yeasty flavors of lees and unintegrated smoky new oak. High acidity adds to the impression of austerity. Difficult to appreciate in its infancy, but this elegant, layered, complex Chard should begin to blossom after 2008 and hold for several years.
Very tight yellow-pear-skin aromas meet with lemon rinds, scratched lime skin, fragrant wet clay and very pithy aromas on this intriguing bottling. Once sipped, the body is steely in acidity and texture, like licking gunmetal, with a warmer stone-fruit element arising in the midpalate. It's a very interesting wine that will appeal to savvy palates.
Very tightly wound in high acidity and even some tannins, with austere, aloof citrus flavors. There's not a lot of appeal to this wine now, except a certain dry, yeasty elegance. It's like a sparkling blanc de blancs without the bubbles.
Very toasty aromas mark this wine. While the toast is present on the palate, it also offers plenty of fruit flavors, conveying apricot and white peach along with a citrus edge that brings out the freshness. Drink this wine from 2022.
Very toasty aromas materialize into a wine that has way too much wood aging. There is no sign of fruit here, only wood plank flavors.
Very toasty wood aromas, the wine itself packed with new wood, fresh spice, the fruit lost somewhere at this stage. But it does have some weight and underlying hints of concentration.
Very tough and tannic now, and dry too, so that the ultimate impact is disagreeably harsh. That, despite a solid core of blackberries, black currants, violets, bacon and minerals. The question is one of ageability. The answer is that it's a gamble, as the wine, like the stock market, could go either way.
Very tough in tannins now, and bone dry, but it's not showing the richness you want for it to survive time in the cellar. Some modest blackberry flavors, which turn into black currants and cocoa toward the finish, relieve the austerity. But it doesn't seem likely to improve.
Very treacly aromas of overripe strawberry, brown sugar and maple syrup show on this dessert-like wine. It's very sweet on the palate, with sweet tea, prune and raisin flavors.
Very tropical and aromatic, this is a powerfully rich white. It is tangy with sweet oranges, layered with pineapple and apricot. There is a spicy, peppery character that comes from the alcohol.
Very tropical but fresh and clean aromas of pineapple, guava and lemongrass show on the nose of this bottling. It's a bit fat on the sip with prominent guava and tropical flowers like plumeria, yet it's a zesty well-made wine.
Very tropical fruits aromas overlay a crisp, tight wine with orange zest acidity. It is softly textured, rich and packed with peach and apricot flavors. The wine is full in the mouth and ready to drink.
Very true to the variety, this is a soft, barnyardy, raspberry flavored wine. With its ripe fruit and well integrated tannins, it has a smooth mouthfeel that is freshened with acidity on the finish.
Very true to the variety, with ample servings of cedar, tobacco and cassis, plenty of weight and a firm structure that bodes well for aging. Best from 2010-2020.
Very typical of Chianti Classico, this feminine wine made by a boutique winery in Greve-in-Chianti offers elegance and harmony thanks to its remarkable intensity and refined aromas of cherry, blueberry, marzipan, root beer and violets. It leaves a thin, easy impression in the mouth with a fresh close.
Very unusual to get a newly released Cabernet from the 2004 vintage, especially one this good, at this price. At age six, it's fully mellow, with a silky mouthfeel framing flavors of cherries and blackberries that are starting to dry out and sweeten. There are also developing notes of mushrooms and earth. What a bargain, but only 800 cases were produced.
Very varietal aromas of sour cherry and cranberry lead to a fruit-filled flavorful palate. Light oak accents linger on the finish. It's a very pleasing example of the variety.
Very vivid notes of green citrus signal refreshment and lightness. The palate confirms this near weightless lightness and underlines it with fine tiny bubbles that fizz away creamily, providing a counterpoint and resulting in a wine that is both exquisitely light, dry, creamy and elegant. If you are looking for a sophisticated but light apéritif, this is your answer.
Very weak, with watery fruit and medicinal oak flavors. Not offering much, even at this everyday price.
Very well balanced, this is already a beautiful wine that could almost be drunk now. Smooth tannins and oak are layered with red and black-currant fruits that are perfumed and fresh. The structure is all there, just light and fragrant. Drink now, although the wine will fill out from 2022.
Very well structured and richly textured, this is a serious red for a special occasion. It has a deep, smoky red color, slightly herbaceous and mineral aromas, generous cherry and raspberry flavors, full body and lots of fine tannins to give a soft bite on the palate. Made from 50% Tinta Roriz, 35% Carmenère, 15% Cabernet Franc.
Very wound-up aromas of dried and dark red berries and asphalt show on the nose of this bottling from Temecula, another sign that Italian varieties can thrive in the warmer climate. The flavors are impressively deep and spicy, with black currant, blackened berries, pencil shavings, vanilla and char.
Very yeasty and slightly clouded in the glass, this wine by regional bubbly pioneer Norm Yost shows buttered plums, rising sourdough bread and freshly picked scarlet red rose petals on the nose. The mouthfeel is noticeably creamy, with more bready yeast, citrus peels and hints of hibiscus and jasmine.
Very young and crisp, this refreshingly fruity wine has intense acidity, strong citrus flavors and a light, bright aftertaste. Drink from 2016 for its acidity to soften.
Very young now and a bit rude, with upfront primary fruit flavors of cherries, black raspberries and new oak. Needs time for all the parts to knit together. Cellar through 2009, at least, and should hold for a while afterward.
Very young wine, dominated by its textured spiciness and ripe tropical fruits. It is rich, full of pepper, cinnamon, and a dry core that makes it as much rich as sweet.
Very young wine, one which is full and rich, but which needs several years to blossom into its full potential. It is in the dry Deutz style, emphasizing acidity and elegance, even though it also has a wonderful ripe intensity.
Very young, dominated by its bitter tannins, then with tight blackberry fruits. It is like a coiled runner, waiting to sprint, its freshness promising a good development. It certainly needs time.
Very young, fruity wine. The tannins are already soft and there is stalky black currant acidity that gives the wine a bright freshness. It has no wood and will develop fast.
Very young, herbal wine, it has a surprising green element to its otherwise ripe, succulent fruit. It's very juicy, fruity, layered with a hard set of tannins, a tight acidity. A year or two should help soften this firm wine.
Very young, juicy, loaded with boysenberry and black cherry fruit. There is a strong streak of licorice, hints of tobacco and vanilla, but plenty of muscle and stiff tannins. A substantial effort, this ranks at the top of the list of Washington Cabernet Sauvignon priced under $10.
Very young, needs plenty of time. Still showing fermentation notes, with brisk, grapey acidity and primary cherry and raspberry fruit flavors. Seems brilliantly constructed and capable of aging, though. Hold until after 2012.
Very young, the wine gives out pure fruitiness, very fresh and lively. Good juiciness offers a riper view of this already very drinkable wine. Drink from 2015.
Very young, this firm, structured wine has dense tannins and a dry core. All of this will open up to bring in the red fruits waiting behind this formidable facade. It needs to age, so drink from 2019.
Very young, this is a fine follow-up to the winery's outstanding 2009. Dark and rich, the estate-grown fruit offers far more flavor than almost any domestic Merlot in this price range. Blackberries, black cherry, smoke and espresso lead into a grainy, chocolaty, tannic finish.
Very young, this is currently all about juicy black fruits and accompanying tannins. It should develop well to give a richly structured wine that has both fruits and a dark, mineral character, hinting at wood aging. Drink from 2018.
Very young, very closed up, but it's possible to tell that this will be an immense wine, even from the 2004 vintage. The acids, the dense structure, the hints of wood and the power of this wine are already in place. Soon, the fruit will come bursting in.
Very young, very tannic, this wine is hard and not showing much fruit at the moment. Heavy extraction has left a wine that's tough and needs to age to get anywhere. Try again in 2016.
Very youthful, so the first aromas are of a wild field, with some cranberry. It’s a full-volume wine, with an appealing chunky forwardness but also bright acidity, style and character. In a word, it’s “balanced.” Will go with almost anything, from baked salmon to dark chocolate. A real pleaser, especially at this price point. Best Buy.
Very youthful, yet from 100–year-old vines, this 100% Garnacha has a vibrant purple color and a chocolate-accented nose. Smooth and tart-sweet on the tongue, it delivers flavor and texture galore. It's a real mouthful with a fairly big, persistent finish. Delicious, yet makes you want a more serious rendering of such old, solid fruit. —M.M.
Very, sweet, with molasses, oatmeal cookie, blackberry jam, chocolate, vanilla and spice flavors. Could be more concentrated for the sweetness. The blend is mainly Petite Sirah, with the balance comprised of traditional Port varieties.
Very, very dry, but bitter in raisinskin flavors and tannins, with a baked currant finish. Not a bad wine, but an acquired taste. Drink now.
Very, very ripe in blackberries, currants and prunes, with oak elaborations. The flavors are rich, but the wine is a bit lacking in structure and depth of interest. Drink now.
Very, very sweet, with exotic flavors of honey, black cherry liqueur, raspberry tart, white chocolate, butterscotch, vanilla cream and cinnamon spice, balanced with crisp acidity. In other words, delicious.
Vespera combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Petite Sirah from two of the winery's signature vineyards, Grigsby and Collinetta, into an explosion of chocolate, mint and intense tannins. A tropical layer lurks on the back palate, making the wine an intriguing quaff.
Veteran chef Puck lends his name here to a quaffable wine. It's a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and several other varieties. The mouthfeel is soft with luscious flavors veering toward cherry pie. A portion of the profits goes to Alzheimer's research.
Veteran Kevin Judd has turned out another fine effort. Passion fruit and pea tendril aromas impart a welcome green edge that's never overwhelming, picking up layers of white grapefruit on the plump, medium-bodied palate. The finish is intense, long and citrusy.
Veteran producer Oak Knoll remains one of Oregon's most underrated value wineries. This full-bodied, super-fruity Riesling offers bright, off-dry, well-balanced flavors of citrus, honey and tea.
Veteran Rick Longoria offers a complex wine, with aromas of black-peppered steak strips, violets, tight purple fruits and a hint of bacon. It's soft on the palate at first, then laser-focused on raspberry juice, Earl Grey tea, blood-orange rind and pencil-lead flavors.
Veteran vintner Bill Smith delivers solid and often ageworthy Pinot Noirs. With this bottling, he's succeeded again. The well-known Marimar Estate Vineyard has given him superb fruit to work with, and the resulting wine is dry, full bodied and fairly tannic, with deep, brooding cherry, cola, white chocolate and anise flavors. While it's drinkable now, it should gain bottle notes after 2018.
Veteran vintner Bryan Babcock offers a ripe style in this bottling, with showy aromas of strawberry, blackberry, graphite, pipe smoke and roasted meats. It's big and dense on the palate, with dried strawberry and squeezed pomegranate fruits, brown spice of cloves, allspice, nutmeg and gingerbread, and the tart cut of orange juice.
Veteran winemaker Dennis Martin's take on the Miller family's famous vineyard presents pretty aromas of violet, red rose and black raspberry, along with turned earth and wet mushroom. It's soft on the palate, with pomegranate and beet juice, anise and shiitake.
Veteran winemaker Eric Laumann pushes the varietal envelope by blending Dornfelder, Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in this wine. Vanilla, baked black cherry, spice cake, cola and strawberry scents show on the nose, while the palate strikes a balance between judicious tannins and vibrant acidity, integrating red berry, baking spice, mulberry and dark chocolate flavors.
Veteran winemaker Joe Davis holds back wines like this Chardonnay longer than most, revealing wondrous maturity once uncorked. This shows whipped vanilla cream, marzipan, walnut and baked apple scents on the unctuous nose, while similar butter and meringue flavors show on the palate. Underlying acidity and chalky tension keep it fresh and mouthwatering.
Veteran winemaker Joel Aiken marches to a different beat from today's cult style, reverting to an older expression of Napa Valley Cabernet. This one is bone dry, tannic and tightly wound in acids. It will not offer much pleasure now, even after decanting. It needs to be aged, and judging by the intense core of blackberries, cherries and minerals, it will easily negotiate the next 10–15 years.
Veteran winemaker John Abbott (Chalone, Canoe Ridge, Abeja) jumps back on the Pinot Noir wagon with this new project. This is the second vintage for his Freedom Hill designate, a vintage that was notoriously difficult due to monsoon-like rains mid-harvest. Abbott cajoles the grapes into an elegant, refined expression of high-acid Pinot Noir. Slightly saline, with mountain strawberry fruit and autumnal (forest floor) accents, this is lean but polished, and should cellar well now through 2022.
Veteran winemaker Lane Tanner teamed with Will Henry of the Henry Wine Group on this newer brand. This bottling shows scents of rose petals and earthy hibiscus as well as more brooding rooibos tea and plum aromas. The action-packed palate is subtly presented with flavors of iron, black plum, cranberry and clove.
Veteran winemaker Larry McKenna says Te Rehua consistently shows the most ripeness of his various single-vineyard wines. In this vintage, that comes across as a slightly jammy midpalate filled with plums and blackberries. Upfront, there's a floral element, and on the finish, some dusty tannins. Try it once 2016 rolls around, and drink it through 2025.
Veteran winemaker Nick Goldschmidt has crafted a simple, appealing Marlborough Pinot Noir featuring bright cranberry and pie-cherry fruit, some slightly mossy or herbal elements, medium body and supple tannins. Drink now.
Veteran winery Taft Street has crafted a gentle, easy-drinking Pinot from the cool Sonoma Coast appellation. The wine is pale in color, dry and crisp, with a silky texture, and has nice varietal flavors of cola, cherries and smoke.
Veuve Clicquot's prestige cuvée is named after the widow Clicquot, the great lady who built up the house in the early 19th century. This latest incarnation is just showing signs of ripe toasty maturity. It is rich and soft with a high dosage, in the house style, with a full panoply of lime, red apple and apricot. Drink now and until 2022.
Viader has a long history of producing great Bordeaux-style blends grown at a high elevation on Howell Mountain. This 2010 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, with almost the same percentages as the superb 2009 bottling. The wine is rich, dry and complex. It shows a fantastic array of blackberries, dates and dark chocolate, with fascinating notes of lavender and dill. The tannins are gorgeous, the acidity fine, and the application of oak is deft. It's hard to describe just how good this wine feels in the mouth. Drink now, after decanting, or within the next 20 years.
Vibrant acidity envelops lively yet dark, brooding baked plum and cherry notes in this smoothly made, velvety-textured wine from estate vineyards. It excites as much on the palate as on the nose, transitioning smoothly into the medium-length finish.
Vibrant and balanced, this luminous wine offers alluring scents of rose, red berry, baking spice and a delicate whiff of new leather. The fresh, elegant palate is loaded with juicy strawberry, wild cherry, white pepper and star anise alongside firm but ultrarefined tannins. Drink 2018–2025.
Vibrant and bright with wild berry and white cherry, this expression of Sangiovese (with small percentages of Canaiolo, Colorino and Malvasia Nera) shows the trademark acidity you can expect of this region.
Vibrant and bright, this Chenin boasts lively notes of tropical fruit, white peach, blood orange and ripe melon. Balanced and refreshing with a clean, citrus-infused finish. Drink now.
Vibrant and concentrated, this light-bodied wine is one of the best of the flamboyantly packaged La Catrina line so far. Packed with vivid fruit flavor, it's lightly sweet but nicely balanced by fresh acidity and flavors like citrus and apple.
Vibrant and crisp, this offers delicate aromas of acacia flower and citrus. The bright, linear palate shows crunchy green apple, tangerine zest and a hint of white almond alongside racy acidity.
Vibrant and delicious, this has aromas of violet, red berry and a whiff of peppercorn. The sleek, savory palate doles out crunchy wild cherry, crushed raspberry and spicy herb alongside silky, supple tannins and bright acidity. This is all about sheer drinking pleasure, so enjoy over the next few years.
Vibrant and easy-drinking, this delivers intense aromas and flavors of crushed strawberry, ground white pepper, clove and mineral backed up by a note of orange peel. Thanks to fresh acidity and smooth, supple tannins, it's made to be drunk young.
Vibrant and easygoing, this opens with aromas that recall woodland berry, violet and moist soil. The bright, simple palate offers tart sour cherry and a hint of white pepper alongside zesty acidity.
Vibrant and elegant, this delivers aromas and flavors of crushed red cherry, raspberry, cinnamon-spice and Alpine herbs. Supple tannins and bright acidity provide support. Enjoy through 2018.
Vibrant and elegant, this offers aromas of wild flower and ripe red berry. The juicy palate doles out tart red cherry, fresh strawberry and mineral alongside tangy acidity. A mouthwatering saline note closes the bright finish.
Vibrant and elegant, this opens with aromas of bright red berry, rose petal and savory herb. The sleek palate delivers juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper and intense licorice alongside firm but fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. It's impeccably balanced. Drink 2018–2028.
Vibrant and elegant, this opens with classic varietal aromas of elderberry flower, passion fruit, crushed tomato vine, dry hay and stone fruit. The linear palate delivers white peach, cantaloupe, juicy citrus and a vein of mineral alongside bright acidity.
Vibrant and elegant, this opens with scents of citrus blossom, Golden Delicious apple and a whiff of herb. The bright palate offers tangerine zest, mineral hint of almond alongside bright acidity.
Vibrant and elegant, this radiant sparkler has enticing aromas of wild flower, apple, graphite, Alpine herb and a whiff of bread crust. The fresh linear palate delivers ripe pear, nectarine, mineral and a hint of toasted almond alongside lively acidity. The bone-dry finish closes crisp and clean.
Vibrant and elegant, this refreshing, mineral-driven white offers aromas of white spring flower, ripe orchard fruit and citrus blossom. Bright acidity frames the juicy pear, apple and flint flavors, while the crisp finish closes on a saline note. This is a fantastic wine from a grape grown only at the Sella & Mosca estate in Sardinia.
Vibrant and elegantly structured, this has delicate aromas of red berry, blue flower, aromatic herb and a whiff of cooking spice. The luminous, rather austere palate shows sour cherry, strawberry, star anise and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside youthfully assertive but refined tannins and racy acidity. This is one of the rare Rossos that will get better after a few more years in bottle. Drink 2018–2023.
Vibrant and espressive notes of tart red currant, blueberry jam and charred meat compose the bouquet. The palate reveals some developed notes of dried leaves and beef jerky. It's full bodied, with moderate extraction, firm and structured tannins and bright acidity. It has a fairly short finish; drink now until 2014.
Vibrant and expressive, this offers initial aromas of blackberry, cassis and boysenberry that are matched with spicy hints of licorice root, black pepepr and cigar-box spice. The palate is round and slightly creamy, but framed by medium tannins and a long, toasty finish.
Vibrant and fresh citrus aromas lead on this white blend from Greece. Lemon zest, orange marmalade and spice flavors on the palate are simple but good. Pair with grilled sardines, mussels, or a fresh salad.
Vibrant and fresh with hints of apple, green herbs and blossoms, this off-dry wine boasts a plush, juicy palate full of white peach and lime flavors. It's anchored by a clean line of steely minerality that lingers elegantly.
Vibrant and full of good cheer, this ruby-colored Recioto boasts cherry, red apple, Turkish spice, leather and dark chocolate. In fact, it would make a perfect companion to chocolate-based dishes. The mouthfeel is chewy and rich with lively cherry intensity and silky tannins. It is worth pointing out, however, that I tasted three corked bottles before finding a good one.
Vibrant and juicy with red cherry and blueberry playing well alongside notes of thyme and soft pepper spice. Medium weight in the mouth with soft grain tannins, solid acidity, and a finish that leaves a delicious raspberry syrup flavor lingering until the next sip. Drink now or hold for a year.
Vibrant and linear, this has classic aromas of young Nebbiolo, including wild red berry, fresh rose petal, damp earth and a whiff of cake spice. The racy palate offers sour cherry, fresh strawberry, orange peel and a hint of cinnamon alongside polished tannins and brisk acidity. Drink through 2016.
Vibrant and linear, this opens with aromas of leafy underbrush, moist soil, woodland berry and chopped herb. The luminous, graceful palate is all about freshness and elegance, offering crunchy red cherry, star anise and white pepper alongside bright acidity and firm refined tannins. Drink 2018–2030.
Vibrant and lively with forward notes of fresh red berries and pink florals along with a touch of watermelon rind and soft sandalwood. Juicy and clean in the mouth with a crisp, mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
Vibrant and lively, this fruit-driven Chianti Classico offers delicate shadings of almond paste, allspice, ground ginger and rose. Its concentration is just right, not too thick and not too thin, and it boasts a supple, velvety feel.
Vibrant and loaded with finesse, this blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc opens with enticing scents of red woodland berry, new leather, Asian spice and a touch of menthol. The youthful palate delivers red currant, wild cherry, star anise and clove alongside a backbone of firm acidity and polished, tightly wound tannins. It will age majestically; drink 2020–2033.
Vibrant and poised, this charming red opens with scents of red berry, iris and aromatic herb. The luminous palate offers red cherry, mint and orange zest while a firm vein of acidity and supple tannins provide freshness and an easy-drinking structure. Drink through 2017.
Vibrant and polished, this offers quintessential Nebbiolo aromas of rose petal, wild berry, mint, underbrush and a hint of tilled earth. The elegantly structured palate doles out fleshy black cherry, clove, licorice and a balsamic note. It's nicely balanced, with bright acidity and firm, refined tannins. Drink 2017–2025.
Vibrant and racy, this Chard's bright acidity boosts and brightens the lime, pineapple, Meyer lemon and vanilla flavors. Try with grilled salmon with a tropical fruit salsa topping.
Vibrant and refreshing, this easygoing red offers aromas and flavors of ripe raspberry, crushed black cherry, ground black pepper, smoke and star anise. Bright acidity and supple tannins lift the savory flavors and give it a silky texture.
Vibrant and refreshing, this opens with aromas of tropical fruit, green apple and a whiff of white flower. The fruit flavors carry over to the linear palate, plus citrus notes and a vein of mineral. Zest acidity gives a clean, crisp finish.
Vibrant and savory, this blend of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Sagrantino and 15% Colorino boasts juicy black cherry, blackberry and raspberry flavors, while notes of white pepper and cinnamon add depth. It's balanced and delicious with fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2016.
Vibrant and savory, this blend of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Sagrantino and 15% Merlot delivers succulent black cherry, crushed plum, black pepper, grilled herb and mocha flavors alongside firm but velvety tannins. It's well balanced with surprisingly fresh acidity for the hot vintage. It's already drinking well but will be even better after 2016.
Vibrant and savory, this delivers wild cherry, dark raspberry, rosemary, mint and Mediterranean herb flavors alongside firm tannins. It closes on a licorice note.
Vibrant and savory, this fresh Nebbiolo doles out blue flower, crushed red cherry and black raspberry flavors. Accents of white pepper add depth while supple tannins and bright acidity create balance. It finishes on a succulent note.
Vibrant and savory, this has aromas of red berry, blue flower and a whiff of baking spice. The bright palate doles out red cherry, juicy strawberry, and star anise alongside bright acidity that gives it a crisp finish.
Vibrant and savory, this opens with lovely aromas of spring flower, citrus, herb and white stone fruit. The round, juicy palate offers ripe white peach, juicy grapefruit, pineapple and mineral alongside fresh acidity. A saline note backs up the finish.
Vibrant and savory, this polished white offers scents of perfumed white flower and ripe orchard fruit. The tangy palate doles out Granny Smith apple, white peach and juicy tangerine. Crisp acidity provides balance while a mineral note energizes the clean finish.
Vibrant and showy on the nose, this yields alluring aromas of white peach, apricot and grapefruit. Zesty acidity gives this rosé of Merlot energy and pizzazz.
Vibrant and spicy, this savory red delivers aromas and flavors of ripe blackberry, black cherry, ground pepper and chopped Mediterranean herb. Firm, fine-grained tannins support the juicy flavors. An anise note backs up the finish.
Vibrant and straightforward, this opens with delicate aromas of Spanish broom, citrus fruit and herb. The bright, simple palate offers tangerine and a bitter almond note alongside zesty acidity.
Vibrant and structured, it has aromas of flint, brimstone, lemon zest and grapefruit, all of which carry over to the palate alongside racy acidity. The bright, juicy palate is accented with energizing mineral that add depth.
Vibrant and structured, this expression of Aglianico opens with a fragrance that recalls blue flower, dark woodland berries, forest floor and balsamic notes. The polished palate offers red cherry, black pepper, licorice and menthol alongside subtle oak. It's well balanced but still young, with nervous acidity and assertive tannins. Drink after 2018.
Vibrant and young, this offers tart cranberry and raspberry fruit set against baking spice highlights. It spent 10 months in French oak, mostly neutral, and is a clean, crisply defined wine with plenty of life ahead.
Vibrant and youthful, this wine greets the taster with fresh, clean scents of honey, fall flowers and roses. It's medium-bodied and crisp, with a final peach note that fades a bit too quickly. Try with Thai curry. No improvement with age; drink before 2011.
Vibrant aromas of black plum, cassis, dried leather, licorice and herb lead to full, sweet, soft-feeling dark fruit flavors that linger.
Vibrant aromas of black raspberry, black cherry, cigar box, wet soil and dried oregano are reminiscent of classic Bordeaux in this blend of 34% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc, 9% Malbec and 9% Petit Verdot. Rounded red fruits show on the front and finish of the sip, but the midpalate is layered with olive, crushed pepper, marjoram and black tea.
Vibrant aromas of cherry, black currant, green herb and barrel spice are followed by polished fruit flavors that show depth and detail. It's expressive on the finish.
Vibrant aromas of citrus, honey and tropical fruit lead here, followed by flavors of pear, honey and lemon. Mouthcoating but balanced by good acidity. Pair with soft cheese or fresh fruit.
Vibrant aromas of cranberry, raspberry and red currant are followed by full-bodied jammy red-fruit flavors. It drinks quite sweet but overall holds the sugar well and the acid provides a counterbalance.
Vibrant aromas of honeysuckle, honey-drizzled peach and green apple lead to medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors. Pair it with a spicy Thai dish.
Vibrant aromas of honeysuckle, jasmine, mandarin orange and petroleum jelly lead to just off-dry, lightly spritzy fruit flavors. Tart, lively acidity keeps the interest high.
Vibrant aromas of honeysuckle, orange peel, peach, jasmine and citrus lead to off-dry stone-fruit flavors. It provides a lot of appeal.
Vibrant aromas of lychee, white flowers and spice give way to off-dry fruit flavors, with the concentration seeming a bit light. Still, it delivers a lot of appeal.
Vibrant aromas of lychee, white flowers and spice lead to elegant off-dry flavors. It brings easy-drinking enjoyment but the concentration seems a bit lacking.
Vibrant aromas of peach, botrytis, apricot and pear lead to ripe stone-fruit flavors that linger. Pair it with a yellow curry.
Vibrant aromas of pear and apple lead to a creamy, full-feeling palate. It's a strong example of the variety and style.
Vibrant aromas of pineapple, flowers, peach and lychee lead to an palate that leans sweeter than off dry. Stone-fruit flavors linger on the finish.
Vibrant aromas of pineapple, kiwi and gummy bear lead to just off-dry drinking flavors. The concentration seems a bit lacking.
Vibrant aromas of raspberry, tart cherry, lavender, red flowers and freshly plucked garden herbs show on the pretty nose of this bottling by Zac Wasserman. The sip starts with a touch of unexpected red-fruit richness, then rides waves of sandalwood, dried rose petals and thyme. The acidity is mouthwatering and the tannins a bit sticky. Altogether it is both light and lively.
Vibrant aromas of red berry, vanilla and spice gives this Cabernet from Bulgaria an energetic start. A soft, mouthfilling style of dry red with flavors of pepper, leather and vanilla, the wine has style and substance, but is not overly complicated. A good go-to red for heartier dishes.
Vibrant aromas of ripe pear, white flowers and melon are followed by a just off-dry palate, with lean fruit flavors.
Vibrant aromas of rose petals, stone fruit, pastry and smoke captivate throughout this multifaceted Riesling. Semidry in style, the palate apposes sweet flavors of honey and caramel against crisp peaches and tangerine. The lingering finish is marked by a flurry of blossoms and astringent tea notes.
Vibrant aromas of sour ale, pear, lime and white flowers are followed by off-dry fruit flavors that provide appeal.
Vibrant aromas of spice, cranberry and plum lead into a vivid, juicy, youthful wine with plenty of tangy fruit. The acids are way out in front, but the fruit has a zip to it, and there is little or no suggestion of new wood to get in the way.
Vibrant aromas of tangerine and flowers lead to sweet fruit flavors that show persistence. Enjoy it as an apéritif.
Vibrant aromas of violet, herb, orange peel, smoked meat and plum lead to dense fruit flavors brightened by snappy acidity. It shows uncommon purity and depth that kicks it up a notch, along with enough tannic heft that cellaring will be rewarded. The balance is impeccable.
Vibrant aromas of white flowers, ripe peach, fresh herb, cocoa butter and hard candy lead to nuanced, well-balanced fruit flavors that show just a touch of lees influence. It offers an exquisite sense of balance and depth along with an extended finish.
Vibrant aromas suggest violet, rose, vineyard dust, aromatic herb and perfumed berry. The palate delivers crunchy red cherry, black raspberry, licorice and baking spice alongside firm but polished tannins. It's still young but well balanced and intense with bright acidity. Drink 2018–2030.
Vibrant black-fruit aromas come across young and vital, with a lot of oak topping. The palate is chunky, with pulpy weight and plenty of body. Blackberry and black currant are the lead flavors, and they are backed by chocolaty oak. This feels meaty and bulky, with tons of fruit-forward heft and power.
Vibrant blackberry and cherry flavors are accented by complexities of rose petal, bramble and savory herb in this elegant, light-footed red. It's not deeply complex or penetrating, but quite charming, marked by sunny cherry acidity and a plush, lingering palate.
Vibrant but slightly reduced aromas of canned pear, jasmine, flowers and peach are followed by off-dry-leaning sweeter fruit flavors. It brings appeal but needs more acid to stand it up.
Vibrant diesel, orange rind, white flower and dried apricot aromas lead to dry stone fruit flavors in this wine. It shows a pleasant balance and persists through the finish.
Vibrant floral aromas of violets, hibiscus and rose hips meet with strawberry extract, licorice paste and a fruit-punch nose. It's easy and light on the palate, with rose petals, lavender and white pepper spicing a rhubarb pie character. Tannins emerge to give density to the finish. It's great for beach or barbecue.
Vibrant in apple blossom and coconut, this voluptuous, well-made wine is full bodied and ripe. Key-lime pie and orange pith marry atop a firmly structured texture and a punch of integrated oak, finishing with a taste of caramel apple.
Vibrant lavender, as well as the flowering tips of rosemary and thyme, meet with blueberry on the floral nose of this wine that shows little of the tarry harshness that often comes from the grape. Lavender also marks the sip, as does white pepper, crushed thyme, dried mint, sage and even tarragon, atop a dark purple-fruit backbone.
Vibrant lemon- and lime-zest notes make this off-dry Riesling brisk and bright. Chalky minerality and a saline tone add depth, and there is a pleasantly bitter lemon-peel note that lingers on the finish.
Vibrant lemon and tangerine acidity freshens savory tones of pressed apples and nuts in this slightly rustic earthy Riesling. It's dry on the palate and finishes briskly.
Vibrant notes of red cherry, plum and blueberry are partnered with earthy hints of forest floor and cocoa. This is a solid selection that's perfect for entertaining. It's well balanced, with light tannins, lifted acidity and a medium-length, black-pepper-kissed finish.
Vibrant pink in color, this rosé of Chambourcin, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is light bodied and easy to drink, driven by tart watermelon.
Vibrant red cherry tones are expertly woven within toasted nut and vanilla to produce a wine with character that ultimately seems younger than it is. You'll taste red currant berry, pomegranate and toasted wood flavors and enjoy its refreshing crispness.
Vibrant red plum and cherry aromas meet hibiscus, cinnamon and a touch of inviting cotton candy on the nose of this bottling. The palate brims with cinnamon spice, baked strawberry and red plum, further enhanced by licorice and ginger snap flavors. The structure is elegantly grippy.
Vibrant scents of peach and nectarine lead the nose, and a touch of white flower adds a sense of elegance. Broad and expansive on the palate, this Viognier demonstrates a striking balance between its flavor concentration and flesh, and its acidity lends it spine and verve.
Vibrant strikes of acidity and spicy mineral tones permeate through this brisk, feather-light spätlese. Zesty green-apple and plum flavors are cutting and spry on the palate, accentuated by delicate, lingering sweetness. Invigorating now, it should gain depth through 2025 and hold further.
Vibrant tangerine and red-apple flavors are concentrated and fresh on the nose and palate of this barrel-fermented Chardonnay. On the palate, it's a silky and textured wine that builds lusciously in body. Warming notes of vanilla, spice and just a touch of canned creamed corn linger on the finish.
Vibrant to the point of spritzy, with more tartness than cushion. This is a sharp rendition of Viura that emphasizes grapefruit and lemon. It stretches astringency to its limit, and yet some may like it because it will never be confused for plodding.
Vibrant tropical fruit and citrus on the nose start this poised white from Greece. Pineapple, lemon and banana flavors are balanced by refreshing acidity and minerality. Overall, the wine is a delicious blend of fresh and fruity. A great find.
Vibrant white grapefruit and crisp-tart peach and pear notes penetrate throughout this subtly off-dry Riesling. While light on its feet and irresistibly refreshing, it reverberates with a long, cool steeliness on the finish. Drink now through 2021.
Vibrant yellow peach, apricot and blossom notes permeate deeply through this light-footed dry Riesling. It's exuberantly primary, yet not at all cloying. Enjoy now for it's youthful vitality.
Vibrant, attractive notes of black cherry, plum, raspberry sauce and licorice root draw you in immediately, and continue on to the palate alongside complementary accents of sweet spice and black pepper. Medium weight in the mouth with grippy tannins and a strong finish. Elegant yet intense.
Vibrant, complex aromas of grilled asparagus, ember, tapenade, fresh herb, potpourri and moist earth lead to full abundant palate-coating fruit and savory flavors. It shows a very pretty sense of styling along with impeccable balance.
Vibrant, coppery salmon in color, this lively and delightful rosé is two-thirds Grenache and one-third Mourvèdre, all stainless steel-fermented. Pretty watermelon and strawberry flavors are accented by streaks of cracker and mineral.
Vibrant, delicious and tastefully oaky, this wine smells like spearmint, tart apples and buttered toast, with flavors of citrus and crisp white peach. There is some heft in the texture, but it's medium bodied, very supple, and energized by fresh acidity and oak spiciness.
Vibrant, dense purple in color, this is ultraconcentrated on the nose, offering kirsch, blueberry reduction and dusty-earth aromas. The palate is heavy, rich and laden with dark fruit, yet there's a balance of grainy tannins and snappy acidity to keep the weight in check.
Vibrant, fruity and dry now, with savory black currant, red currant, plum and cherry flavors, this Cab also has a spicy, minty quality that makes it come alive on the palate. It's young and tannic, and will benefit from up to eight years in the cellar.
Vibrant, fruity aromas of red cherry concentrate and bubble gum powder ride over a sweet sawdust note on the nose. The palate shows a bit of depth and darkness, with tart black plum and grippy plum skin on a medium-bodied palate. Sandy, yet structured tannins support. A dusty vanilla finish rounds out this approachable red.
Vibrant, linear and complex, this dazzling red has enticing aromas of wild berry, pressed rose, graphite and a whiff of smoke. The luminous palate is all about finesse and energy, delivering tart red cherry, crushed raspberry, mineral and baking spice. Even though it has an ethereal quality, firm but extremely refined tannins and bright acidity provide structure and balance. Drink through 2026.
Vibrant, tart aromas of green gooseberries and lime rind elevate the underlying hay and fresh thyme herbal accents. Lean, barely ripe white peach and hard pear add volume to the medium-weight mouth. Balanced and seamless with a clean, refreshing finish. Drink up!
Vibrant, tart gooseberry, plum and lime aromas are upfront on the bouquet, with additional hints of sweet grass and honeysuckle dancing in the background. The palate offers bright acidity and crisp citrus flavors. Drink now.
Vibrant, this opens with aromas of almond cream, toasted nut, Mediterranean herb and orchard fruit. The firm palate delivers juicy green apple, lemon zest and sage alongside a persistent perlage. It's balanced with bright acidity.
Vibrantly effervescent and bursting with ripe, juicy strawberry and cherry fruit notes, this has a fine-sandpaper-like texture. It's an interesting selection that would pair well with barbecue or pulled-pork dishes.
Vibrantly fruity, it offers aromas of currant, raspberry, celery stalk and spice. The palate has tart cranberry flavors, finishing a bit short.
Vibrantly intoxicating wafts of varietal pepper and violets are complemented by gorgeous layers of blackberry, raspberry and smoky, gamy meat. The acidity marks the palate most, however, lifting the wine's denseness of concentration into a more complex and interesting place. Made in small quantities, this wine is ready to enjoy but will age through 2021, as well.
Vicente Faria delivers a densely ripe wine made from selected vineyards. Wood aged, with rich black, tarry fruit and dark chocolate aromas, it's an impressive blend that will need to age. Drink from 2019.
Vidal-Fleury ages its wines longer than most other Rhône firms, so don't be concerned that this is “a year behind” other Tavels on the market. It's the one rosé appellation that can handle a bit of bottle age, so this is at its peak. It shows typical Tavel weight and richness, but also savory, almost meaty or mushroomy elements, balanced by bright citrus notes. Drink now.
Vidal has a peculiar bouquet that I have a hard time describing. This one boasts muskmelon, litchi and kumquat aromas, backed by a honeyed sweetness and grapefruit-like acids. Intense—verging on overblown—this is a fine example of what this French-American hybrid is capable of producing.
Vietti's iconic Barolo from the Brunate cru deserves a special spot in your cellar collection. The wine delivers power and heft thanks to ideal vineyard conditions in 2007. It also exhibits the vintner's unique style, in which oak tones are set against the delicate aromas associated with quality Nebbiolo.
Vietti offers a concentrated and super rich expression of Barbaresco with solid aromas of black berry fruit and toasted oak that create a solid, almost syrupy whole. The wine is luscious and concentrated with opulent notes of dark chocolate, espresso, cured meat and licorice. It tastes fresh and succulent now and needs at least five more years of bottle aging.
Vigna Broglio is a ripe, jammy Barolo with bold notes of mature cherry and blackberry preserves. It tastes more like a Tuscan wine than one from the Langhe and offers syrupy fruit flavors that indicate a hot vintage or a low altitude vineyard. It's soft in the mouth, however, and offers very smooth tannins. Drink 2012–2015.
Vigna Cerretta shapes a smoky wine with notes of black fruit, road tar, licorice and spice. The wine presents an upfront layer of aromas but doesn't offer as much depth after that. Give it time to find harmony and loosen its tight tannins. Drink after 2015.
Vigna del Fiore is a dark and impenetrable wine with lavish aromas of roasted coffee bean, toasted oak, vanilla and spice. The oak element is very apparent and the wine offers smooth, velvety tannins with plush chocolate softness.
Vigna del Mandorlo Dolcetto d'Alba opens with bright freshness and loads of cherry, blueberry, raspberry and toasted almond. The wine shows freshness that is balanced by smooth, velvety tannins.
Vigna delle Raunate opens with bold smoke and spice tones upfront that are closely followed by mature fruit and blackberry aromas. Delicate touches of vanilla and black spice create beautiful accents along the way.
Vigna di Pallino is a light, well-priced and easygoing Chianti that would work with pizza or even a soup and sandwich lunch. Cherry and raspberry are wrapped around a light, compact mouthfeel.
Vigna Fraschin has subdued aromas of rose petal and red berry with a tobacco note. The palate is a bit closed but reveals underbrush, mushroom, tobacco leaf and oak. It finishes on a note of espresso.
Vigna La Rosa is always among Fontanafredda's best performing wines and this vintage will appeal to those who enjoy a riper, fuller style of Barolo. There are mature aromas of blackberry and raspberry backed by meaty tones of mesquite, smoke, cola, charcoal and powdery mocha. There's density and roundness here with velvety, plush tannins.
Vigna Manapetra's inky dark concentration is noticeable from afar and gives this Brunello a brawny and dark personality. The bouquet is broad and immense with integrated aromas of dark cherry, spice, leather and toasted nut. It's almost too much of a good thing with smooth, evolved tannins and a touch of bitter fruit on the close.
Vigna Mandorlo ushers forth sweet-smelling aromas of Christmas spice, nutmeg, ginger and vanilla backed by chopped herbs, anise, licorice and underbrush. There's a layer of smoky mesquite that also appears on the finish. This bright Barolo has a vibrant, sharp feel in the mouth and ends with dusty tannins. Very nice.
Vigna Paganelli shows amazing results with a bright fruit quality that translates into black cherry and blackberry. At the back are sophisticated tones of leather, tobacco and light touches of spice that give the wine depth and elegance. The most interesting aspect, however, is the mouthfeel that shows firm but beautifully ripe tannins that will help the wine age 10 years or more.
Vigna Rionda is among the finest crus in the Serralunga d'Alba area with 40- to 60-year-old vines and this producer takes a traditional approach to Barolo. It opens with a slightly brownish hue and seems older than the vintage thanks to aromas of old spice, used leather and dried herbs. The mouthfeel is raw, but firm.
Vignavecchia hits its stride with this successful wine, which reveals spicy, exotic flavors enhanced by vibrant tones of incense and moist pipe tobacco. Fresh fruit lends the palate a plump, soft and rich feel.
Vigne di Proprietà is an estate-grown wine with dark concentration and distinctive aromas of black cherry and mature fruit (likely explained by the hot vintage). The wine offers chewy fullness and opulence backed by sweet spice flavors and velvety tannins. It has power too and the alcohol definitely shows as the wine warms in the glass.
Vigneti di Foscarino is a beautiful Soave Classico with a rich and round personality followed by sophisticated aromas of stone fruit, melon and dried sage. There's a playful touch of piquant spice and freshness on the close.
Vigneti di Montegradella is a well-priced Valpolicella with more intensity and density than you'd expect. In fact, the wine offers determination and personality with enough natural extraction to pair with bean soup or barbecued hamburgers.
Vigneto annually honors a single grower from among Ponzi's suppliers; here the spotlight is on Bieze vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. The sweet raspberry fruit brings overtones of spiced orange peel, clove and marzipan, and the wine has sustained length and power, with exceptional purity throughout.
Vigneto Boscareto offers a pretty bouquet of delicate mineral nuances that are carefully laced between notes of red berry, exotic tea, licorice, sweet ginger and clove. The wine is sharply focused and chiseled with rock-tight tannins and lingering notes of ash and smoke.
Vigneto La Villa opens with ripe, pulpy fruit and fresh aromas of plum, blackberry, crushed mineral and exotic spice. The wine takes on a ruby color and there is slight browning on the edges. The mouthfeel shows great balance between the fresh acidity and drying tannins. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers.
Vigor and muscularity mark this young Pinot Noir, in the form of vibrant fruit, stringy tannins and mouthwatering acidity. The black cherry, red currant, licorice, sandalwood and pepper flavors are massive, although for all their apparent sweetness, they finish dry. Give it until at least 2018–2019 to begin to mellow.
Vigorous and tannic, this young Pinot is hard right now. It also seems a little unbalanced, with some raisins and mint bracketing the cherries. Could just be going through an awkward youth. Try in 2011.
Vigorous bubbles present a Pinot Noir-like nose of crushed rocks, Indian spice and sour earth on one of the best Central Coast sparklers of the vintage. The intriguing flavors center on pluot and nectarine flesh, with fringes of salinity, lemon juice, cardamom and even dashes of curry.
Vigorous in body, this Syrah comes from one of Foxen's warmest vineyards, the well-known Vogelzang. It's riper and higher in alcohol than their Tinaquaic Syrah, making it richer, rounder and tastier. With blackberry, orange peel, red licorice and cola flavors, it's balanced with fine tannins and acidity. Drink now–2017.
Villa's Seddon vineyard is located in the Awatere Valley—a Marlborough subregion that's generally cooler than the main valley. As a result, this is a slightly lighter, more herbal rendering of Pinot Noir, but one that avoids any overt greenness or astringency. It's complex, elegant and silky—just like more Pinots should be.
Villa Antinori offers the elegance and excellence of a great Tuscan producer, with the informality of a family dinner wine. Notes of cherry, blackberry, spice and leather give it softness and persistence.
Villa Donoratico, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Cabernet Franc and Merlot, opens with bold, ripe cherry aromas followed by spice, leather, tobacco and smooth chocolate. The wine also earns points in the mouth thanks to its intensity and firm structure.
Villa Gemma is a flagship wine for Abruzzo that underlines a specific quality-minded winemaking philosophy that makes this Italian region so exciting and full of surprises. The wine is dark and superconcentrated, with amazing intensity and generous layers of mature berry fruit, spice, tobacco, used leather and polished river stone. It is smooth, firm, dense and will age many more years to come.
Villa I Cipressi stands out because of the smooth, velvety feel the wine imparts across the palate and because of the delicate renderings of smoke and spice that frame its pulsing red fruit. Despite the wine's natural richness, it comes across as tonic and fresh on the close.
Villa Maria's entry-level Sauvignon Blanc remains a solid bargain year after year. Delicate leafy notes provide lift to gooseberry and pineapple flavors. It's a very good, fruit-driven introduction to the regional style at a fair price.
Villa Maria's upper-level Pinot Noirs have always been big and bold, but with this release the wines seem to have taken a turn toward more finesse and elegance. The 2010 Cellar Selection features a plushly textured palate, refined aromas and flavors of cherries, earth and cedar, and a long, softly dusty finish. Drink now–2018.
Villa Monticelli Passito represents one of the best dessert wines to come from Umbria, central Italy. Made from air-dried grapes, the wine sports a amber-copper color and opens with syrupy aromas of white raisins, candied fruit, honey and loads of apricot.
Villa Novara presents easy aromas of fresh forest berry and almond paste. The wine is informal and sharp making it an ideal companion to pizza with mozzarella or pasta stuffed with ricotta cheese.
Villa Novare offers a light and bright expression of Ripasso that ties nicely into Valpolicella tradition where the focus is on balance and elegance. You'll also enjoy the wine's food-friendly qualities such as its medium structure and smooth finish.
Villa Pillo's Sant'Adele is probably Italy's best Merlot at this price point. The wine is soft and smooth with beautiful intensity of aromas that spans from red fruit to sweet spice. It demonstrates clarity and balance with a velvety, opulent style and a crisp close.
Villa Pillo is an expert at producing value wines and this Cabernet Franc-Merlot is no exception. The wine boasts measured renderings of blueberry, coffee, almond and chocolate.
Villa Prandone Navicchio is a pretty expression of Pecorino from Central Italy with resiny aromas of mature apricot, cola and white peppercorn. There's depth and personality here and the wine offers a unique experience.
Villa Puccini's Sangiovese (with 10% Merlot) offers a neutral nose with soft aromas of ripe cherry, prune, plum and spice. The wine's texture is supple and plush, making this a perfect choice for pizza or take-home dinners.
Villa Rubini delivers a fresh, easy Pinot Grigio that will wash down informal summer meals and picnic foods. Aromas include stone fruit, grapefruit and talc and the wine's consistency is lean and thin.
Villa Russiz's Collio Pinot Grigio offers good density and depth with aromas of mature peach, honey and melon. You could pair this wine with seafood or white meat thanks to its firm feel and persistency.
Villa Russiz offers an elegant and delicately balanced Sauvignon that puts equal emphasis on bouquet and mouthfeel. You'll get aromas of passion fruit, cut grass, tomato leaf and the density and crispness necessary for keeping the palate refreshed.
Villa Sandi's dry Prosecco registers high in sweetness, an impression reinforced by the wine's fragrant floral aromas—you'll detect loads of jasmine. It's chewy-sweet in the mouth with medium zest on the close.
Villa Sandi's refreshing Brut Prosecco offers everything you look for in a traditional Prosecco. The wine is well-priced and it awards a fresh mouthfeel that is balanced by peach, apricot and lemon zest. It's soft and foamy in the mouth with a zippy, lively close.
Villa Sandi delivers a refreshing and tonic sparkling wine from the Prosecco Superiore area that would pair with a broad range of light fish and vegetable dishes. The mouthfeel is smooth, silky and zesty clean.
Villa Santera is a well-priced Primitivo di Manduria with jammy notes of black fruit, mature apple, root beer and spice. The wine has a dense, rich texture and a bright endnote of cherry fruit flavors.
Villa Santera opens with jammy aromas of blackberry preserves and raspberry tart, followed by slightly smoked tones of roasted almond and pipe tobacco. This is fleshy, extremely rich and sweet on the close.
Villa Spinosa owns some of the most beautiful vineyards in Valpolicella and selects the best fruit for this intense, succulent Amarone. The nose offers notes of milk chocolate, vanilla-cherry and spice as well as warmer tones of white mushroom, earth and baked apple. The mouthfeel is subdued, but balanced.
VillaBella delivers a generous Amarone from the Classico zone with loads of spice and characteristic blackberry and cherry fruit. On the one hand, the wine tastes a bit overripe with strawberry marmalade. On the other, the firm tannins and natural freshness keep it in check. Age this wine another five years.
Villalta's Ripasso opens with simple aromas of spice, dried fruit and forest berry. Although the intensity and overall staying power is very nice, the wine definitely represents the less formal side of the Ripasso spectrum.
Villero is a bright and traditional wine with a lean, compact appearance and sharp aromas of small berries, almond and anise seed. It's a well-defined wine with firm, tight tannins and a cooling menthol-like finish. Drink after 2012.
Vin d'été means “summer wine,” and this delicate Cabernet Franc would be the perfect companion to a balmy summer eve. It's unabashedly rustic in style, with touches of leafy herbs, clay and barnyard accentuating crisp black-cherry flavors. Brisk and sprightly on the palate, it finishes long, with a murmur of velvety tannins. Unusual and a bit mysterious, yet truly lovely.
Vin Jaune, one of the glories of Jura, is in good hands here. This wine is still developing, its oxidative, yeast and acidity still showing a fresher fruit character. Even now, still young, it is a wonderful, totally memorable wine.
Vincent and Ludivine l'Amouller, the estate's fourth generation, named this wine after the sailboat of the ancestor who moored in Blaye and bought the vineyard. The 2014 vintage, certified organic, is firm while also rich with fruit. The wine is going to generous, ripe and full of concentration. Drink this attractive wine with its good potential from 2019.
Vincent Bouchard's Quinta do Tedo has produced an outstanding 2009. It's in the soft, rich and ripe style of the year; its flavors of black plum juice and sweet berry have a rounded character, with underlying structure that promises good aging.
Vincent Couche has a specialty with very dry Champagne. This wine, with some bottle age, is rich, warm and generous, yet quite dry. A touch of toast adds complexity to ripe apple fruits.
Vincent Lataste's organic wine is light, bright and immediately refreshing. This is a wine that shows a strongly herbal side. It has citrus and green apple flavors that are crisp and tight. With perfumed acidity at the end, the wine is delicious to drink now. It won 2016 Best of Wine Tourism award for B&B in giant wine barrels.
Vincent Leflaive was the uncle of Olivier Leflaive. The wine, from old vines, is made in homage to him. Impressively rich and full-bodied, it has some toastiness as well as fresh acidity and apple and citrus flavors. It's tight at the moment, showing a steely character that will soften. Drink from 2016.
Vincenzo Toffoli's Extra Dry Prosecco delivers a playful touch of sweetness that would pair with salty foods or savory appetizers. The sparkling wine boasts a clear, compact style with a touch of crisp acidity on the close.
Vine Cliff consistently produces one of the best Chardonnays in Napa Valley, and here's another one. The cool vintage gives it refreshing acidity, while the flavors are ripe and frankly delicious, suggesting pineapple and Key lime pie, vanilla custard, buttered toast, vanilla and dusty pie spices. A girding of minerality helps the dry structure. Really complex, and a joy to drink.
Vinegary overtones suggest a volatile wine from the first sniff. Flavors are high-toned as well, with plum and cherry. Some sort of barrel treatment brings in dark chocolate and espresso, with slightly burnt, bitter tannins.
Vines aged 35 years and more go into this wine. It has great power and concentration while also having beautiful ripe fruit. Big-hearted berry flavors are balanced by some serious tannins that promise medium-term aging. Drink this wine soon from 2017 or even better wait until 2018.
Vines around 25 years old on this family domaine yield this soft and creamy wine. It has attractive, crisp acidity and a bright texture that brings in apples and lemon flavors. The wine is ready to drink.
Vines close to the east coast of Corsica give this bright, light and fruity wine. Crisp acidity is fleshed out with creamed apple and pear fruit. The wine is delicious to drink now.
Vines close to the Gironde are the source of this structured wine. It has rich berry fruits and a good balance between the fruit acidity and the wood. At the moment, it is dry and firm. Give it until 2018 and it will be a powerful wine.
Vines from a number of growers on the lower slopes of Gevrey-Chambertin contribute to this wine. It has the plentiful tannins typical of the village yet also exudes attractive juicy red fruit. It will need another year or two to show its best, so drink from 2019.
Vines from high up in the vineyard produce this cool, fresh wine. It has bright acidity along with intense grapefruit and lemon fruits. The wine is tangy with a strong texture. Drink from 2018.
Vines grown at 1,800 feet give this wine its cool climate attitude. The granite soil gives a strong mineral character to the grapefruit and green apple flavors. With its textured almond and spice character, this is a ripe wine that is ready to drink now.
Vines grown on sandy soil yield a wine that is accessible now. Full, soft and ripe with red berry fruits, the palate is marked by gentle tannins and an attractive burst of fruity acidity. Drink now.
Vines grown on thin soil close to the stony subsoil produce this tight, taught and mineral wine. With acidity, structured tannins and concentration, the wine is still starting out. It is a dark wine with black fruits that need time to fully develop. Drink this intense wine from 2020.
Vines in deep red-iron soil on this tiny biodynamic family parcel (1.3 acres) are just coming into their own. This ripe wine balances rich yellow fruit with a tight shot of acidity and citrus. Fresh and crisp with touches of spice and butter., it is ready to drink.
Vines in the Douro Superior, the remote area in the eastern edges of the Douro wine region, go into this firm wine. With its dry tannins and firm structure, the wine is always going to be powerful. It has spice and rich blackberry and damson fruits. The aftertaste brings in acidity. Drink this wine now, but don't forget to let it breathe for a couple of hours.
Vines in the hills west of Nuits Saint-Georges are the source for this crisp red-currant-flavored wine. It has a juicy character, bright with red fruits. The wine will be ready from 2018.
Vines in the southern Amarante region of Vinho Verde give this wine its ripe melon and apple flavors. It is tangy, bright with ripe fruit and with a lightly mineral texture. Drink now.
Vines more than 40 years old are the backbone of this ripe, concentrated wine. With bergamot and intense spices, it's a rich wine that's already beguiling. Vines from Katzenthal give the mineral edge to this pepper and spice wine that is only just moving towards sweet.
Vines on steep slopes leading down to the Gironde estuary give this estate a good exposure. This wine is structured and laced with firm tannins. It has a balanced character that will allow it to age further, although the black-currant flavors are beginning to shine. Drink from late 2016.
Vines on the slope of the Brouilly hill give a firmly structured wine. It is has a fine sense of balance between the tannins and the bright black-cherry fruits. Rich and crisp with acidity, it is going to be a wine that brings out so much fruitiness as it matures. Drink from late 2017.
Vines on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims have given this wine a soft character and ripe fruitiness. Fresh baked apples and bright acidity are right out front to produce a refreshing, accessible wine that is ready to drink now.
Vines over 20 years old are seen as old vines for this wine. A ripe wine, it is full of tropical fruits, with a dense texture and intense green-fruit acidity. Mineral with balanced fruit, it will be ready to drink from mid-2017.
Vines over 45-years-old in the most northerly vineyard in Givry are the source of this rich smooth wine. It has a fine combination of blackberry fruits and pointed acidity that gives it a great lift. The balance is just right: the tannins comfortably part of the ripe fruitiness. Drink this wine from 2018.
Vines over 50-years-old give a concentrated cru wine. It is ripe with berry fruits topped by spice. Fruity and likely to develop quickly, it is an attractive wine to drink young from mid-2017.
Vines over 50 years old are the background to this impressive wine. It's produced from a field blend of over 20 different varieties that assembled together give an enormous wine that's solid with tannins and lush fruits. With so much structure and concentration, it will need many years. Drink from 2018.
Vines planted between 900 and 1,200 feet above sea level give this cool interpretation of Pinot Noir. The wine is crisp, lightly structured with some tannins and with a delicate cherry and red-berry fruitiness. It will be ready to drink from 2017.
Vines planted in 1934 are behind this smooth and concentrated wine. It has red-berry crispness as well as a cool crisp texture from acidity and tannins. With aging potential, the wine is perfumed and still firm. Drink from 2019.
Vines planted in 1939 by the current winemaker's grandfather give an impressively ripe wine. It is dense with concentrated tannins, smoky red fruits and still youthful acidity. The wine has a bold juicy character that comes from the open-tank fermentation giving great fruitiness. Drink this wine from 2020.
Vines planted in 1947 are the source of this dark and concentrated wine. It has a strongly smoky character with dry tannins. They contrast with the potential of the red cherry and berry fruits that are ripe and juicy. The wine is developing well and should be ready to drink from 2019.
Vines planted in 1961 give this wine great concentration as well as impressive fruitiness. The wine is ripe, full in the mouth. It's also still young, with a tight structure and a mineral edge. This complex wine is likely to age well. Drink from late 2017.
Vines planted in a former apple orchard (pomar) give a structured, firm wine with tannins as well as dense black fruits. The dense texture comes from the ripe fruit, aged for 12 months in wood. This concentrated wine will age further. Drink from 2018.
Vines planted in the 1960s give this wine its great concentration. With its powerful fruits and dense tannins, it is well structured, with the hallmark bright fruits of the vintage along with acidity. The tannins are very present at the moment, and the wine will need long aging. Drink from 2024.
Vines planted on gravel soil line a terrace above the Cher river. This wine with an intensely herbal character is fresh, crisp and packed with fruit. It has some weight, along with a great lift from the aromatic aftertaste. The wine can be drunk now, although it will be better from 2017.
Vines planted on steep, terraced slopes around an 18th-century château give a dense and warm wine. While the acidity is very present, bringing out lemon and orange flavors, the spice and pepper give the wine its complexity and its still-young aftertaste. Drink from 2016.
Vines situated close to the fortified citadel of Blaye have produced this bright and shiny 2014. With its clear red-berry fruits, black currants and acidity, it is immediately attractive. The tannins, a great support to the fruit, promise some aging. Drink now, or, better yet, wait until 2018.
Vines situated in the heart of the village give this wine its ripe, generous berry flavor. The tannins, while firm, are integrated into the bold fruitiness. This round while structured wine has good acidity to balance the richness. Drink from 2019.
Vines surround a garden full of contemporary sculpture in the grounds of the château. This wine, produced at the western end of the Margaux appellation, is well structured with firm tannins that are balanced by juicy berry fruits and acidity. It is well integrated, on the way to aging well. Drink from 2018.
Vines that are more than 50 years old are the backbone of this wine. It is called Epicurean, meaning it is made to go with food and its extra dryness, almost extra brut, puts it firmly in that category. Structured and tangy, the wine could do with some more bottle age, so drink from 2017.
Vines up to 40-years-old are growing on this 13-acre parcel. The wine is lighter than some in this producer's range. At the same time, it is also more mineral and more textured, giving a tight steely wine that will need some time. So drink this wine from 2019.
Vines up to 50-years-old are the basis of this rich and tannic wine. While it does have some age, it still has a way to go. Big bold tannins show strongly along with ripe black-plum skins. The wood aging has given this wine a smooth elegant edge that contrasts with the still young fruitiness. Drink from 2021.
Vines with an average age of 30 years give this wine good intensity that balances the firm, dark tannins. It's a powerful, concentrated Merlot-based wine, big and generous. Ripe plums and berries show strongly through the tannic structure. Give this wine until 2017 before drinking.
Vines with an average age of 35 years have produced this smooth, creamy wine. A light mineral character shows in a flinty texture, balanced by ripe white stone fruits and pink grapefruit. A touch of pepper comes through in the aftertaste. Drink now.
Vineyard-designated Grenache is a rarity in the Northwest. This one is all about subtlety and elegance of expression, with aromas of candied raspberry, thyme, spice and wildflowers leading to a textured, pillowy palate that possesses an ethereal lightness and great length.
Vineyard-designated rosés are unusual in the state, and other Cinsault offerings unheard of at present. Pale copper in color, this offers berry aromas followed by just off-dry flavors backed by a big blast of acid that keeps you coming back for more.
Vineyard designated Cabernet Francs are an extreme rarity in the state. This one brings aromas of plum, herb, vanilla and pencil lead that are followed by pillow-soft fruit flavors. The variety doesn't always show through but it provides enjoyment.
Vineyard designated Merlot is a rarity in the state, though this is one of the three the winery made in this vintage. Amped volatile aromas and generous barrel spices are followed by light, slightly dried-out cranberry and cherry flavors.
Vineyard redevelopment and a new winery contributed to this fine expression of ripe Alicante Bouschet wine under the direction of Catarina Vieira. It's rich and structured, reflecting the grape. The dark color and powerful spice and black-fruit flavors are right up front to give a dense wine that will always be firm. The wine comes in a very heavy bottle.
Vineyard sources for Col Solare are evolving as the recently planted estate vineyard comes into bearing. This vintage incorporates fruit from several Red Mountain vineyards, though not Col Solare itself, along with lots from elsewhere around the state. Toasty and full-bodied, two-thirds Cabernet, the rest Merlot, Cab Franc and Syrah, this is a nicely blended wine but not yet showing the precision and structural detail of the superTuscans it is modeled upon.
Vineyard sources for this 100% varietal Syrah were mostly Yakima Valley growers; the cooperage was all French (22% new) and the alcohol levels were in proportion with the overall balance. It's a good wine, though not up to the standard of the exceptional Trust 2005 Syrah. Here you'll find light flavors of berry and tomato, fresh herbs and a little green edge to the tannins.
Vineyards around Mont Sainte-Victoire have their own appellation, accorded because of the extra ripeness the wines often have. This ripe, full, strawberry flavored wine has a fine balance between its crisp acidity and the ripe, warm texture. It could age for a few more months.
Vineyards around the ancient castle of Tracy produce fine wines, like this. It has an intense character, still young, full of fragrant lemon flavors and richly crisp. The wine is going to be impressive, with great depths. Drink from 2017.
Vineyards close to the sea produce a beautiful crisp wine, with red fruits, a touch of saltiness and tangy acidity. Cool fermentation has kept so much delicious flavorsome fruit. Drink now.
Vineyards in the upper Douro Superior region are able to produce surprisingly fresh and fruity whites like this, despite the heat and dry climate. Old vines go into this yellow and green fruit flavored wine with its lively acidity and totally refreshing palate. Drink from summer 2016.
Vineyards just across the hills from the Douro have produced this ripe wine. It has fine acidity that gives freshness to the apple, peach and ripe pear fruits. The aftertaste is bright, tight with minerality and citrus. Drink now.
Vineyards north of the Douro River deliver an attractive, fruity wine with bright red fruits and a generous core of tannins. The light wood-aging character has smoothed and filled out the fruitiness of the wine. Drink now.
Vineyards on the western slopes of the Serra da Estrela, Portugal's highest mountain range, give this fine expression of the local star white grape. With a creamy texture, apricot and citrus fruits and a tangy lemon zest texture, this is a delicious, balanced wine, ready to drink now.
Vinha Paz is the property of surgeon, António Canto Moniz, who decided to produce wine on his family farm in the 1990s. This latest vintage of the Reserva is intense, dense, and concentrated while never losing sight for an instant of the structure and texture of the finest Dão wines. Dark berry fruits are sustained by tannins, wood aging and final acidity. Keep this wine until 2020.
Vinified by the former Margerum winemaker (who now works for Morgan Winery), this bottling from one of the appellation's most exciting vineyards is chock-full of baked red cherry, vanilla, clove and gravel aromas. Though light and bright in body, the palate packs intriguing flavors, from raspberry and rose petal to dried fennel and dill.
Vinified by the winemaking team of Dão Sul, this is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet and Syrah, a rich, wild blend, with smooth blackberry jelly fruits, an edge of astringency, and a layer of toast from the eight months wood aging.
Vinified in 100% new French oak, this is young, tight and showing the barrel flavors more than the fruit. As it opens, in come flavors of citrus skin, lemon drop and caramel. It's quite acidic, with good structure, and still has a yeasty finish.
Vinified in California with grapes purchased from Willamette Valley sources, this is a pleasant, quaffable wine, with simple red fruit and grippy acids. The flavors seem to get stuck in the back of the throat, a bottleneck of acid and red berry. Don't look for the breadth or sweetness of California Pinot Noir here, but you will find texture and nuance.
Vinified in large wood barrels, the wine is extra rich with a touch of spice and vanilla as well as mango and warm apple flavors. It comes from vines grown on flinty soils, but there is little sign of that in the generous full texture. Drink this ripe wine now.
Vinified in neutral French oak puncheons, this luscious wine offers a lively mix of papaya, mango, vanilla and butterscotch flavors. Though rich, it's never tiring, and firms up midpalate into a wine with some muscle through the finish. Enjoy through 2025.
Vinified in new 500-liter oak barrels, this wine is fresh, fruity and crisp. It has attractive acidity, a strong streak of minerality and lively lemon fruit. With a taut, nervy edge, the wine has a bright aftertaste. Drink now.
Vinified in stainless and left on the lees for six months, this wine sets its tasty, lime-inflected fruit against refreshing minerality. It's a bold, assertive style, with a lovely citrusy core.
Vinified in stainless steel and not put through malolactic fermentation, this is a leesy, textural wine with plenty of minerality. Its flavors conjure up wet concrete, stone and lemon and lime peel.
Vinified in stainless steel, this affordable wine doesn't need new oak flavors to flesh it out. It's sharply defined, with crisp apple and pear fruit that carries a touch of spice. The length and precision are impressive.
Vinified in the soft, opulent style of Chambolle, this is ripe and round. With its dry edge and rich fruit, the structure of the apparent is apparent. The acidity cuts through to give a juicy element. Already delicious to drink, but it's worth aging over 2–3 years.
Vinified with 50% whole clusters, this pure Pommard selection is from the highest portion of the vineyard. This seems to bring slightly more definition to the wine, which puts a tangy undercoating around the bright berry flavors. There's a pleasant lick of chocolate running through the tail.
Vinified without sulphur, this wine is all about fruit. It has red-berry flavors, ripe tannins and just the right amount of acidity to keep everything bright and fruity. The structure at this stage needs to soften and this fine, ripe wine will be better starting from 2018.
Vinous aromas of fresh red berry meld with a hint of chopped herb and a floral note. The slender, simple palate is a bit diluted but still offers red cherry and a note of espresso alongside racy acidity.
Vintage 2002 is turning out to be a great year in Champagne, and this wine is a reflection of that. Made from the heart of the pressing, it starts crisp and creamy. But then the power of the year shows through with its depth of flavor, yeast and apples, and a fine mineral structure, offering aging potential.
Vintage after vintage, the Resonance Vineyard designation is the most seductive, most expressive of all the Sineann Pinot Noirs. In this difficult vintage it is a more elegant and delicate wine than usual, but delicious. Tart cherry, hints of pine resin, delicate spicy highlights and a persistent and elegant finish are the hallmarks here. Nicely done!
Vintage after vintage, the wines of Camigliano offer a long perspective on the changing evolution and complexities of Brunello di Montalcino. This edition shows bright berry nuances with spicy highlights of white pepper and cola. The mouthfeel is crisp and sharp.
Vintage after vintage, there's a smoky, dusty undertone to this intensely mineral Riesling. It's dry on the palate with streaks of fresh lemon, lime and herb that linger long and lean on the finish. Fine and fleeting in texture, yet remarkably powerful in presence.
Vintage after vintage, this wine impresses for its complexity and balance, and the 2009 won't disappoint on those counts. It may not be the biggest, baddest Dry Red No. 2, but it features blueberry fruit and espresso and black olive shadings, a lovely supple texture and a softly lingering finish. Drink it over the next few years.
Vintage after vintage, this wine impresses in its tension of power and grace. Leather and cigar provide the savory yin to the wine's perfumed cedar and sage yang. With additions of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the mix, accents of currant, blueberry and blackberry add succulence and flavor. Decant before enjoying or cellar through 2023.
Vintage Selection has long been the winery's age-worthy 100% Cabernet. Although this has an alcohol content that's higher than in the past, it should still reward cellaring. The wine is rich with a sweet blackberry flavor, with lots of new French oak. The tannins are hard, reminiscent of an older era of Napa Cabernet. Give it 5–6 years, but anything longer than that and the fruit may be threatened.
Vintner Adriano Gigante delivers a thick, resiny Ribolla Gialla with aromas of candied fruit, caramel and apricot. Try this pretty wine with ravioli stuffed with yellow squash.
Vintner Carlo Cattaneo offers a lean, crisp expression of Sangiovese with aromas of cassis and spice. The wine shows sharp acidity on the close.
Vintner Carr follows up on his great 2008 Reserve with this delicious bottling. In California, it's usually a cinch to get fruit this ripe and tropical, and easy to plaster on lots of new oak. What's hard is to fuse the elements seamlessly. This wine does, offering waves of Chardonnay opulence. It may have a touch of botrytis, but that's in its favor.
Vintner Chiara Boschis took over this historic estate after the death of its founder Luigi Pira. She continues in a precise Barolo tradition that pays attention to quality of fruit and vineyard designations. The Cannubi cru, for example, is celebrated for the elegant nature of its wines. Here you will encounter fine aromas of orange blossom, wild berries, white mineral and delicate floral notes.
Vintner Elena Walch offers this fine Sauvignon that shows the best of northern Italian winemaking. Crisp, clean and cheerfully fragrant of passion fruit and wild flower, this wine is layered and fresh at the same time.
Vintner Elisabetta Geppetti's Saffredi is part cult wine and part mainstream blockbuster in that the wine enjoys worldwide fame, but few know it well. This vintage is soft and luscious, with loads of dark chocolate, cherry, blackberry, tobacco and spice. It's gorgeous down to the last delicious drop.
Vintner Enzo Rapalino has crafted a luscious, thick Barbaresco with warm wood tones of spice and toasted almond backed by delicious notes of bright berry and wild raspberry. The wine shows firm, determined tannins and a very solid structure for a long aging future.
Vintner Ettore Righetti presents an extremely food-friendly Ripasso that boasts power and concentration, without being too heavy or chewy. Aromas here include cherry maraschino, licorice, tar and dark chocolate.
Vintner Gaetano Bertani delivers a dark and delicious Amarone with bright fruit tones, loads of dried spice, leather and tobacco. The wine presents a soft, sweet sensation in the mouth thanks to its chewy tannins and fruity finish.
Vintner Gianmario Marchisio has crafted a complex and generous Roero Riserva with mature fruit tones that soften the blow of Nebbiolo's natural astringency. This is a streamlined, dry wine with a touch of menthol freshness on the close.
Vintner Gianni Zonin was instrumental in pushing for the enlargement of the Prosecco production zone and this wine is made under the terms of those new rules. It's an easy, informal apéritif wine with aromas of dried hay and citrus.
Vintner Giovannella Fugazza has crafted a soft and plush white wine with ripe peach and candied fruit aromas. The fragrant grape used is Malvasia and the wine is sweet and chewy on the close.
Vintner Guglielmo Bortolomiol (not to be confused with the Prosecco estate of the same name) delivers a dry, tonic sparkler with steely effervescence and soft tones of yellow fruit and spring flower.
Vintner Luigi Rubino represents a new generation of young and dynamic winemakers in Puglia. This is a dark and decadent red wine, with sweet oak tones that sit behind the cherry, chocolate fudge, cinnamon and tobacco. The mouthfeel is supple, rich and long-lasting.
Vintner Marco Bacci delivers a plush, ripe and mature expression of Morellino that really hits all the right marks. There's great fruit quality here and the aromas are bright, polished and clean. Warm, earthy tones pick up the rear.
Vintner Marco Caprai is the man who has tamed the tannic, unruly beast that is Sagrantino. Having carefully aged for two years in oak, this has become deeply elegant and sophisticated. Aromas of chocolate, exotic spice, dark berry, leather, tobacco and dried prune leave a lasting impression. Age for 10 years or more.
Vintner Matt Villard blends Petite Sirah, Syrah, Grenache, Tannat and Petit Verdot into this whopper of a wine, which is very fairly priced. Aromas of vanilla-laden black cherries, hot fudge and licorice lace into an elegant, well-integrated nose. Once sipped, flavors of smoked blackberries, black rocks, purple flowers and more licorice linger long on the palate.
Vintner Maurizio Marchetti has crafted an easy white wine to pair with fish or vegetable curry. The mouthfeel is thin and compact with bright tones of peach, citrus and almond on the close. It is packaged in a fun, amphora-shaped bottle.
Vintner Riccardo Cotarella's fantastic Cabernet-based Marciliano (both Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc are present) opens with an intense bouquet of red fruit, blackberry, oak spice and chocolate. The ripeness level is spot-on; and the wine leaves a smooth, soft sensation in the mouth that's followed by firm, age-worthy tannins.
Vintner Roberto Cipresso presents a dense and rich blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from Sicily with ripe aromas of prune, blackberry and black pepper. The wine is dark and thick in the mouth and would pair with grilled steak.
Vintner Romano Marengo has crafted a bright Barbera d'Alba with a simple approach that is generously rich in fruit. There's sharp, evident acidity here with polished tannins and a bright finish. Pair it with ravioli stuffed with fresh ricotta cheese.
Vintner Salvatore Geraci is the proud producer of Palari Faro, one of the great red wines to emerge from the Mediterranean rim and the island of Sicily. The elegance and finesse is extraordinary and the wine opens with a complex bouquet that sees petite elements of cassis, licorice, tar and tobacco rolled into one.
Viognier (10%) announces itself first with aromas of flowers and orange peel that are followed by smoke, leather and spice on a wine that has yet to fully reveal itself. The cranberry and cherry flavors are full in feel, tapering toward the finish.
Viognier and Alvarinho are not native to the Alentejo but the region's heat adds warmth and richness. This refreshing wine's acidity and citrus flavors are balanced by the ripe yellow fruit and pineapple. Partially aged in wood, it needs a few more months. Drink from 2018.
Viognier and Vermentino spend some time in both stainless steel and oak, which gives this blend fresh aromas and a creamy palate. Stone fruit, apricot, honey and white flower notes are accompanied by mildly spicy overtones.
Viognier from the Southern Rhône can often be overripe and heavy, but while this offering from Grand Veneur is full bodied and richly textured, it remains reasonably fresh. Apricot, pineapple and passion fruit flavors mingle easily on the palate, finishing clean and long. Drink now.
Viognier in Portugal brings out the grape's ripe side along with layers of rich spice. This wine is full, layered with toast and almonds as well as superripe intense fruit. Powerful, complex and dense, the wine is still very young and should be aged. Drink from 2017.
Viognier is a particular strength at Penner-Ash, and here, once again, the challenge of balancing the grape's high-wire sensibility is met with ease. Firm and compact initially, it blooms with delicious flavors of lemon pastry, hints of mint, and lemongrass. It's full bodied, poised and steers clear of both bitterness and burn.
Viognier is clearly a strong suit at Cowhorn, a biodynamic vineyard and winery in the Applegate Valley of southern Oregon. The aromatic nose is wreathed in seductive scents of flower and fruit. Flavors are a mix of citrus and stone fruits, with a taste of honey that brings added depth, but not sweetness.
Viognier is half the blend, with the rest Roussanne and Riesling, yielding a delightfully aromatic, lightly honeyed wine, with a lush array of ripe fruits. Apricot, papaya, pineapple and banana are all here, with supporting acidity. Overall, this is one of the most delicious and unique white wines in Washington.
Viognier is nothing if it's not rich, and who knows richness better than Bob Foley? This wine is an exotic treasure trove of pineapple tart, pear jam, apricot purée, honeysuckle, butterscotch and dusty Asian spice flavors, balanced with crisp acids and a steely, minerally finish.
Viognier makes up 61% of this wine. The aromas don't seem entirely pleasant, with notes of ale and herb. The palate brings a lightly oily feel to the stone-fruit flavors that also show some sweetness that isn't balanced by acidity.
Viognier makes up just over 8% of this wine and it shows itself with perfumed aromas of flowers and orange peel, along with brown stems, freshly ground herb, black olive, mineral and whiffs of smoked meat. The palate is all about texture and layers, while never losing its exquisite sense of balance, gliding on the extended finish. Superb stuff, with an emphasis on elegance.
Viognier remains a strong suit for William Church, and part of the consistency is the vineyard sourcing each vintage from Conner Lee and Gamache, in roughly equal proportions. Lemon and lime, peaches and apricots rule the palate, ripe but neither hot nor bitter. There's a good long finish as well, but it's the fruit that really shines.
Viognier represents 60% of the blend, unusual for the Southern Rhône, and it imparts white pepper and ginger to the bouquet, a broad, oily texture, and bold apricot flavor. The balance is 30% Clairette and 10% Grenache, but those varieties play only supporting roles. The spice notes integrate nicely into the wine with airing, but the wine does finish a bit short.
Viognier, Roussanne and Grüner Veltliner mix pleasantly in this newest edition of Syncline's popular Subduction white. Tasted shortly after bottling, it was delightful, though perhaps not yet at its peak. Spicy and aromatic, with melon, herb and lemongrass, and just a whiff of white pepper.
Violet-red in color, this semisweet wine has a nose of blackberry and vanilla. It is soft on entry, with flavors of black cherry, blueberry and creme brûlée. It is smooth on the palate, while the blueberry pie finish is brightened up by a brief but not unwelcome tart note.
Violet-red in the glass, this wine has a nose of blackberries and gingerbread spice. It is well balanced, with equal amounts of velvety tannins and refreshing brightness cavorting on the palate. Pronounced flavors of blackberry, aniseed, smoke, flint and thyme are accentuated by notes of mint tea.
Violet-red in the glass, this wine has fragrances of watermelon and black cherry. Tannins come on strong at first but are undercut by astringent notes of cranberry alongside flavors of cherry, pomegranate, vanilla and French toast.
Violet and berry aromas are pleasant, fresh and not too demanding or loud. This is solid in feel, maybe a bit simple overall, with plum, berry and a touch of char making up the flavor profile. Generic berry flavors and a dry feel define the finish.
Violet and berry aromas lead into juicy black cherry and red currant flavors. A hint of clove adds interest while fresh acidity and soft tannins makes this wine already extremely enjoyable. Drink through 2016.
Violet and cooking spice aromas lead the nose in this wine. The juicy palate offers black cherry, clove and bitter almond notes, and the tannins are smooth. Enjoy soon.
Violet and floral boysenberry aromas show earthiness and leather after airing. This feels supple and deep, with just enough acidic lift. Toasty, blackened cassis and blueberry flavors show a hint of bacon, while toast, spice and chocolate flavors grace a solid finish. Drink through 2024.
Violet and lavender florals mesh with strawberry pie and earthy bark aromas on this single-vineyard expression from Lompoc-based Joey Gummere. The flavors are cranberry-apple and boysenberry, tart and relatively light, both tannins and acidity integrated seamlessly.
Violet and lavender lend a floral tone to this very pretty Pinot. Brisk and bright, it balances delicate red berry and cherry flavors against subtle shades of toast and oak. It's irresistibly refreshing and quaffable.
Violet and raspberry perfume persist in this pristinely fruity yet deeply complex wine. Morello cherries and cranberries pulsate deeply in the core, but the periphery is shaded by savory tones of underbrush and black-tea leaves. While voluptuous in body, it's crisp and structured by soft tannins that linger dramatically on the finish.
Violet and red cherry aromas are followed by flavors of tart cherry, mesquite smoke and pepper on the palate. A little angular but overall nicely rounded by Syrah, this Xinomavro blend is a good cohort to meats and cheese.
Violet and underbrush aromas lead on the nose of this wine, with glimmers of violet and ripe plum. The palate has wild cherry, mint and spice flavors, dusted with a hint of espresso. This is well-balanced and fresh, and should develop complexity over the next few years.
Violet as all get-out, with a nose that initially smells like bug juice. This is all about sweet, youthful fruit, so if you're looking for sophistication at bargain- basement prices you're shopping in the wrong place. What you will get is blackberry fruit, sweetness and gummy tannins. In the grand scheme of things it's just o.k., but for $6 you should not expect more.
Violet blossoms and orange peel aromatics jump out, followed by scents and flavors of lamb tartare and mixed charcuterie. Cofermented with 5% Viognier, it's an elegant and beautifully proportioned wine, offering ripe purple fruits with finishing hints of baking spices and dark chocolate.
Violet florals and ripe blackberry perfume are alluring on this Merlot-Cabernet blend. The palate is particularly plump with luscious, slightly confected, black-cherry preserve flavor, but tightened on the finish by a ruffle of grippy tannins.
Violet in color, this has ample berry and cassis notes on the bouquet. It feels edgy and grabby, with oaky, spicy plum and blackberry flavors. The fruit component fades fast on the finish, leaving a dry, peppery aftertaste.
Violet in color, this Maule Carignan smells toasty and oaky, like maple and campfire. In the mouth, this is resiny but also flush and acidic. Woody upfront flavors are backed by racy plum and blackberry notes, while this tastes oaky but feels juicy and zesty on the finish. Drink through 2023.
Violet perfume, sweet fruit and a rich character make this wine immediately appealing. Delve into it and the tannins emerge, powerful in character. Berries and sweet, ripe plums complete this serious, impressive wine.
Violet petal, cookie dough and graham cracker aromas surround berry scents on the nose of this good-value Malbec. The palate is jammy and not at all fierce or demanding; flavors of floral raspberry and vanilla finish sweet and a touch candied.
Violet petal, fine leather, roasted berry and spice aromas are classy and elevated. This is a deep, generous, modern Rioja with tons of ripeness but also ideal balance. Black-fruit flavors spread from cheek to cheek, while toast, bitter chocolate and espresso notes add complexity. This beauty finishes stout, with toast, mint, chocolate and herb flavors. Drink from 2015 through 2025.
Violet red in the glass, this wine features a bouquet of cherry, violet and vanilla. Flavors of cherry, blueberry, anise, ground black pepper and green bell pepper are fixed in a framework of tannins that offer full mouthfeel right into the orange peel finish.
Violet red to the eye, this wine is a blend of 55% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. A nose of black cherry and violet prepares the palate for flavors of cassis, cherry conserves, orange zest, licorice and tobacco. Fruit and spice flavors keep each other in check amid velvety tannins. The smooth cherry finish is highlighted by touches of orange zest.
Violet, baking spice and dark berry aromas lead the nose of this zesty, straightforward wine. The palate offers dried cherry, black currant and clove flavors framed by rounded tannins. Enjoy soon.
Violet, berry, meat juices and spice aromas lead the nose on this big, round Rosso. The ripe palate offers dense, black cherry, mature plum, mocha and sugary vanilla alongside a bracing, tannic backbone. It's already drinking well so enjoy it soon.
Violet, black cherry and berry aromas are elevated by mocha and coffee aromas, while the palate is deep and layered. Flavors of boysenberry and plum are creamy and rewarding, and the finish offers plenty of fruit in addition to oak. Maybe not super complex, but the wine's bold meatiness makes up for that. 1,000 cases produced.
Violet, black fruit and cedar notes lead this poised red. The palate is plush, but finishes clean and dry. Subtle, clean and focused, it's a good wine to savor alone or with steak.
Violet, blackberry and plums on the nose are followed by unctuous, dark berry flavors in his affordable red. The wine has body but is buoyed by good structure and acidity. A very god alternative to everyday reds, and with a more mysterious overall character.
Violet, blackberry, cassis and blueberry aromas immediately waft from the glass. Rich and ripe, the palate boasts more of the same concentrated fruit in a lush, creamy, crushed-velvet-like texture. Notes of charred espresso bean, vanilla pod and licorice root all unfold on the long finish. Balanced, delicious and affordable.
Violet, boysenberry, sandalwood and pencil lead converge on this nose of this 72% Cabernet Sauvignon bottling, which is boosted by 25% Sangiovese and 3% Petite Sirah. The palate is loaded with interesting flavors, from dried raspberry to crushed wild chaparral and black rocks.
Violet, cigar box and smoke mark the nose of this distinctive Xinomavro. On the plate, spice, sweet cedar and clove give it a rustic but refined feel. Pair with aged cheeses or meat dishes for extra appeal.
Violet, crushed herb and mint aromas start this Agiorgitiko. On the palate, coca, vanilla, red berry and a savory spin give it depth. Fresh and friendly but substantive, this wine can age.
Violet, dark-skinned berry and balsamic notes come together in this ripe, round wine. The palate delivers black cherry, tobacco and thyme flavors, bolstered by assertive tannins. Enjoy 2018–2023.
Violet, dark-skinned berry and chopped herb aromas lift out of the glass. The lean firm palate offers dried sour cherry and a hint of spice but not much fruit richness while bracing, drying tannins leave an astringent finish.
Violet, dark-skinned berry and sweet baking spice aromas take center stage on this vibrant, easy-drinking red. The supple, savory palate doles out black cherry, raspberry, orange peel, cinnamon and star anise framed in zesty acidity.
Violet, dark-skinned berry, toasted oak and sweet baking spice aromas float out of the glass. The full-bodied palate doles out mature blackberry, black currant, sage, green pepper and oak-driven spice framed in fine-grained tannins.
Violet, dark berry and a whiff of spice lead the nose on this blend of 50% Sangiovese, 25% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. The sleek, straightforward palate doles out black cherry, raw raspberry and aniseeed accompanied by fine-grained tannins. Drink 2016–2020.
Violet, iris and hints of natural rubber and eucalyptus lead the nose. The bright palate offers red cherry, espresso, star anise and vanilla notes bolstered by close-grained tannins.
Violet, iris, leather, tobacco, vanilla and savory herb aromas lead the nose on this full-bodied wine. The structured palate delivers juicy morello cherry, crushed black cherry, anisette, black pepper and tobacco. It's brightened by firm acidity while bracing tannins provide support. It finishes on a licorice note. Give this time to unwind and develop complexity. Drink 2018–2025.
Violet, iris, perfumed berry, pine forest and baking spice aromas mingle in this fragrant, precise wine. The linear, focused palate offers cranberry, pomegranate, licorice and white pepper flavors alongside a backbone of vibrant acidity and youthfully austere tannins. Give it time to fully come together. Drink 2023–2043.
Violet, iris, red-berry, toast, clove and menthol aromas take center stage. The mature palate offers oak, dried black-skinned berry, anise and a hint of tobacco alongside close-grained tannins. It's already rather shy on fruit richness so drink sooner rather than later. Drink 2018–2022.
Violet, iris, red berry and spice scents take center stage in this delicious blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot and Syrah. The bright, fruity palate delivers wild cherry, black pepper and cinnamon spice notes alongside assertive tannins and freshness.
Violet, iris, red cherry and a whiff of baking spice aromas carry over to the light-bodied, straightforward palate. It's easygoing, with supple tannins and bright acidity.
Violet, iris, wild berry, tilled soil and mint aromas mingle in the glass. The structured, elegant palate delivers crunchy red cherry, crushed raspberry, white pepper, iron and aromatic herb alongside a backbone of vibrant acidity and firm but refined tannins. This is quite simply a fabulous wine. Drink 2018–2030.
Violet, lavender, espresso and cherry-cola syrup aromas show on the nose of this wine by interior designer Caren Rideau and industry veteran Andres Ibarra, who's been growing and making wine for decades. The palate offers blueberry, cedar ash and pencil shavings, but it shows quite a bit of grip and will require more patience to enjoy fully.
Violet, lavender, mulberry, black cherry, cola, graphite and a touch of sarsaparilla lead the nose on this bottling from this vineyard planted in 1997. Tart cranberry, pencil lead, dried orange rind, bay leaf, fennel and bay leaf all show on the palate, which is tremendously grippy and offers strong depth way into the finish.
Violet, leather, dark berry, clove, menthol and grilled herb aromas lead the nose. The vibrant palate offers crunchy cherry, raspberry jelly, cinnamon and licorice alongside bright acidity. A backbone of assertive but noble tannins provides support. Drink 2018–2030.
Violet, mature plum, black cherry, vanilla and espresso jump out of the glass of this savory wine. The juicy palate is balanced with supple tannins and remarkable freshness for the vintage. Enjoy it now to capture the succulent fruit.
Violet, menthol mint, red-berry and dark-spice aromas lift from the glass along with a hint of toast. The delicious, chewy palate doles out juicy black cherry, vanilla and star anise alongside firm, polished tannins that leave soothing, velvety texture but also give it structure. Hold for even more complexity. Drink 2018–2023.
Violet, new leather, dark berry and herb aromas take center stage in this young red. The juicy palate offers crushed raspberry, tart cherry and licorice flavors, enveloped in soft tannins and bright acidity. This is what a Rosso should be: fresh, succulent and enjoyable.
Violet, perfumed berry, menthol and thyme are just some of the aromas offered by this fragrant Barbaresco. The structured, graceful palate weaves together red cherry, crushed raspberry, cinnamon and a balsamic note. It's impeccably balanced with firm but polished tannins and bright acidity that provide an age-worthy framework. Drink 2017–2025.
Violet, perfumed berry, new leather, cinnamon and mint aromas follow through to the elegant palate, lifting its juicy core of plum and ripe Morello cherry flavors. A licorice note signals the close while firm, fine-grained and polished tannins provide support. Drink 2018–2027.
Violet, plum, black cherry and cooking spice aromas take center stage on this enjoyable red. The juicy tangy palate doles out blackberry, raspberry, white pepper and a hint of cinnamon framed in chewy tannins.
Violet, plum, leather and baking spice aromas merge on this easygoing red. The no-fuss palate offers black cherry, star anise and a hint of clove alongside polished but rather fleeting tannins. Drink soon.
Violet, raspberry, underbrush and wild herb aromas take center stage on this straightforward red. The lean, racy palate offers sour cherry and orange peel alongside vigorous acidity. This cries out for food, so enjoy it with hearty soups and pasta dishes.
Violet, red berry and baking spice aromas take center stage on this zesty red. The tart palate offers cranberry, sour cherry and star anise alongside racy zesty acidity and rather grainy tannins that leave a mouth-puckering finish.
Violet, red berry and crushed herb aromas lead the nose while the juicy, fruity palate doles out wild cherry, crushed strawberry and white pepper notes. Crisp acidity lends a clean finish.
Violet, red berry and underbrush scents come together in this Dolcetto. Its savory, juicy palate evokes crushed blackberry, cherry and a touch of toasted almond alongside lithe tannins. Enjoy soon.
Violet, red rose, wild berry and chopped herb aromas abound on this fragrant sparkling wine. Made with 100% Sorbara gapes, the luminous, copper-toned palate offers ripe strawberry, crushed raspberry, wild cherry, nectarine zest and a note of baking spice alongside tangy acidity and a firm, persistent perlage. This puts a whole new spin on Lambrusco.
Violet, ripe berry and a whiff of sweet cake spice lead the nose on this straightforward red. The bright, easy-drinking palate offers crushed wild cherry, raspberry, white pepper and cinnamon. Fresh acidity and silky tannins give it an approachable, easygoing nature.
Violet, ripe black berry, vanilla and tilled soil aromas take center stage. The palate offers dense and juicy black cherry layered with chocolate and mocha alongside polished tannins. It's straightforward, savory and accessible. Enjoy now.
Violet, ripe plum, black-skinned berry, leather and truffle scents take center stage in this firmly structured red. The medium-bodied palate offers dried plum, chopped herb and licorice flavors, framed by firm, polished tannins and racy acidity, finishing on a black tea note. It's still a bit austere but should develop beautifully over the next few years. Drink 2018–2028.
Violet, rose and woodland berry aromas fuse with a whiff a new leather on this bright red. On the luminous no-frills palate, accents of clove and orange peel add interest to unripe strawberry and sour cherry. Fresh acidity and firm tannins provide solid support.
Violet, rose, cherry, baking spice, Alpine herb and mineral are some of the aromas and flavors you'll find on this radiant Nebbiolo. Bright acidity and silky tannins balance the juicy palate. It's elegant and boasts great depth, but will continue to evolve for years. Drink through 2030.
Violet, rose, mature black fruit, leather and baking spice aromas open this smooth, structured wine. The palate offers prune, dried cherry, nutmeg and mocha alongside assertive, drying tannins. Drink 2016–2023.
Violet, rose, perfumed berry and a whiff of sweet cake spice are some of the enticing scents you'll find on this impressive wine. On the delicious palate, notes of clove, cinnamon, mocha, licorice and raspberry weave seamlessly throughout the juicy black cherry core. It's elegantly structured, with fresh acidity and firm, ripe tannins. Drink 2020–2036.
Violet, rose, wild berry, chopped herb and dark spice aromas float out of the glass. The friendly, robust palate doles out black cherry, ground pepper and rhubarb alongside fresh acidity and round tannins. Enjoy soon.
Violet, sarsaparilla, crushed stone and dark berry aromas show on the nose of this bottling from Mourvèdre master Ryan Pease. Still quite young, it shows black plum, black fig, loamy earth and roast pork flavors and is bit richer and riper than his other bottlings.
Violet, scorched earth, dried herb and dark spice aromas take shape in the glass. The full-bodied palate offers wild cherry, raspberry, star anise, ground pepper a hint of orange rind alongside firm fine-grained tannins. Drink 2018–2023.
Violet, scorched soil, spice and mature berry aromas lead the nose. The medium-bodied, elegant palate delivers mature black cherry, crushed raspberry, freshly ground clove and black pepper. Firm but fine-grained tannins provide support.
Violet, tilled earth and red currant tones mark the nose and palate. The crisp acidity races down the midpalate, leading the fleeting flavors and mild tannins to a short finish.
Violet, wild rose and woodland berry aromas lead the nose in this lively, polished and joyful wine. The lightly sparkling palate doles out red cherry, crushed strawberry, candied tangerine zest and ginger hints. Crisp acidity lends a clean, dry finish.
Violet, woodland berry, baking spice and chopped mint aromas slowly emerge on this polished red. The bright palate doles out tart cherry, cinnamon and a hint of white pepper while lithe tannins and fresh acidity lend a refined framework.
Violets and compost dance through the aromas, leading into an intensely fruity palate loaded with sappy berry richness, nuanced with scents and streaks of cured meat, garrigue, earth and graphite. Blending 77% Syrah with 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, it strikes a perfect balance among fruit, earth, and rock. At its core it is still wrapped tight, immaculately clean, and still almost impenetrably dense.
Violets and lavender perfume lend lift to this plush, velveteen Cabernet Franc. Ripe black cherry and berry flavors are rich and concentrated, off set by crisp cranberry acidity and soft, lingering tannins.
Violets and rose petals lead the nose, followed by ripe blackberries and, with a bit of patience, some warm pie crust. The flavors are pleasant but hard to pin down, with flashes of licorice, red currant, allspice and orange peel.
Violets and white pepper intrude pleasantly on the nose of this estate-grown wine, accented by 10% Zinfandel. Layered and mischievously elegant despite its size, it's drinkable now, as satisfying as a piece of blueberry pie, and yet structured. It's a fine wine to lie down, through 2022.
Violets mingle with notes of dark char and almond on this perfumed, nuanced Cabernet Franc. On the palate, delicate sour-cherry flavor flavors are subdued by swathes of earth and spice. Brisk in acidity, it finishes with a mouthful of penetrating but finely textured tannins.
Violets, bacon fat and caramel sauce are drizzled across blueberry and olallieberry fruits on the nose of this bottling from Billy Wathen and Dick Dore. The palate is expertly integrated and deep with flavors of blackberry, pepper dust, tart black-plum skins, cocoa powder and roasted pork. It conveys classic Syrah flavors, done with grace.
Violets, blackberries and espresso beans whirl together into a delicious, silky nose on this wine by Josh Baker and Matt Brain. It's similarly luxurious on the palate, soft and sensual with lots of boysenberry and olallieberry. It also shows a peppery licorice spice, boosted by focused acidity that enlivens every part of the tongue.
Violets, leather, vanilla, subtle oak and black berry sensations all meld together in the glass. The rich, concentrated palate delivers ripe black cherry and blueberry extract accented by mocha, cinnamon, clove, white pepper and mineral. It's soft and already extremely accessible, with velvety tannins, but will age well for the next five years or so. Drink now through 2019.
Violets, lilacs, black pepper, blackberry paste and hot asphalt show on the nose of this 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah blend from the appellation in the heart of Monterey County. The palate is ripe and juicy with boysenberry and blackberry fruits, wrapped up in a tannic asphalt structure.
Violets, smoke and fall foliage perfume this deeply concentrated Virginia Cab Franc. It's full bodied with sultry, black cherry flavors and there's a noticeable build in complexity on the midpalate amidst layers of crushed black pepper, charred wood and dark floral notes that linger to the finish.
Violets, spring flowers, orange peel, licorice and cola emerge from the nose of this beautiful Barolo. The tannins are tight and the acidity is bright, and the wine needs another decade of cellar aging. Once it reaches its peak drinking era, the wine would pair perfectly with duck in orange sauce or New Zealand lamb.
Violets, underbrush, woodland berries and baking spice aromas lead the nose on this lovely, youthful Nebbiolo. The lively palate delivers crunchy red cherry and wild strawberry accented with notes of white pepper and citrus alongside supple tannins and brisk acidity.
Vionta aims for the racy, lively style of Albariño, and for the most part it nails it. Aromas of peach and nectarine are youthful and pure, while the flavors of apple, peach and lime are pleasant. Not over the top but instead it achieves balance and ease. Imported by Freixenet, USA.
Viosinho and Gouveio, two classic Douro white grapes are blended in this ripe wood-aged wine. It has spice as well as rounded fruit, giving the wine a ripe character that is balanced with final citrus acidity. Drink now.
Viosinho and Viognier are the principal grapes in this blend. It is fresh and very crisp. Lively acidity with a lightly perfumed character and touches of apricot. Drink now.
Viosinho, more often found in the Douro, dominates this ripe and full-bodied wine. Lemon acidity is integrated into the rich yellow fruit flavors to give smoothness and roundness. The intense fruit needs to soften a little, so wait until 2016 to drink.
Vipra Bianca, which means “white viper,” is a blend of 60% Grechetto and 40% Chardonnay. The bouquet offers a delicate floral aroma, with notes of lemon blossom and peach. The mouthfeel is smooth, crisp and dry.
Virginia's 2010 harvest brought intense heat and little rain, making for many ripe, powerful wines, such as this Cabernet Franc. Aromas of blackberry cobbler, jammy blueberry, caramel and vanilla lead to a medium- to full-bodied palate that bears muscular tannins and lush acids. This is a big boy in terms of alcohol, clocking in at 15.8%, which makes for a warm finish.
Virtú is the winery's white blend, this vintage partnering 56% Sémillon with 44% Sauvignon Blanc. The combination is explosive, briny and flowery in the best ways, a taste of apple and fresh-squeezed lime vibrant on the palate, followed by savory herb and a nuanced taste of toasty oak. The aroma conveys a sense of fresh salt air.
Virtually identical with Pinot Noir, and quite a good one at that. Shows cool-climate influence in the translucent color, vital acidity and pure flavors of raspberries and persimmons, accented with smoky oak.
Viscous and dark in the glass, this can be none other than a Daou wine. The telltale crème de cassis, black cherry, mocha and espresso aromas lead to a palate of exotic black spice and concentrated fruit, its blackberry and blueberry flavors accented with hoisin notes. It has enough structure to age but is also accessible now.
Viscous and heavy, this 100% Zinfandel made in a Port-like style is intense and chocolaty, a concentrated form of blackberry and blueberry that shows full-bodied richness.
Viscous, almost oily in texture, this is several vintages older than most of the recent samples, yet seems so unevolved that it's not out of place. Honey and dried spices are the predominant themes, with citrusy fruit making up the core. Should evolve glacially through at least 2025.
Visellio is a pretty wine from one of the most promising wineries in Puglia. It opens with an inky dark color and shows balance and harmony, with aromas of ripe blackberry and exotic spice. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety.
Visitors to Saint-Émilion will see the winery of Clos des Menuts right in the town center. The vines, on the plateau outside, have produced a ripe wine in the 2012 vintage. It's rich and soft, still with juicy black fruits and a smoky mildly tannic character. This will develop as a ripe wine to drink from 2018.
Visitors to Sonoma Valley are familiar with the beautiful Cherryblock Vineyard, which has been Sebastiani's flagship Cabernet source for decades. The 2010 vintage was kind to it, producing fruit that's not only exceptionally ripe, but well structured. Balanced acidity and soft, intricate tannins house luscious black cherry, currant, anise and new oak flavors. The wine should age in the bottle for at least eight years.
Vista Hills is in a sweet spot in the Dundee Hills, with neighbors including DDO and Domaine Serene. This puts the fruit front and center, a panoply of berries and melon, lightly edged with toast. Warm, forward and palate-friendly, it rolls into a finish with a hint of sassafras.
Visually, this is a pale version of a Creamsicle. It has citrus yellow fruits and soft acidity. With its spice, it is well balanced, ending with a refreshing burst of bright red-currant flavors.
Viticulturalist Ann Kraemer, who farms Shake Ridge Vineyards for many other producers, keeps some of the grapes for Yorba, her label with winemaker Ken Bernards of Ancien. The result is an exceptionally good dark plum, black cherry and blackberry-tinged Syrah with pepper and meat thread throughout the deep fruit concentration of this still-tight, mountain-grown wine. Cellar another 2–5 years.
Vittorio Moretti Extra Brut is an elegant sparkler with aromas of apricot, stone fruit and yellow candy. The wine is creamy and tight in the mouth with long-lasting flavors of butterscotch and toasted nuts. Pair it with elegant fish recipes like buttered sole with garden potatoes.
Viu's first Sauvignon from coastal Leyda is more neutral than desirable. But as it opens you get tangy and fresh flavors of citrus, tropical fruit and grass. It's racy and lively, but the depth and complexity seem regular and not reflective of the reserve notation. Imported by Baystate Wine Co.
Viu 1 is pure Malbec, and this rendition is one of the more ripe and jammy versions on record. The color is pitch black, the nose is saturated and fully extracted, and the feel is almost syrupy. Flavors of prune and blackberry finish heavy and oaky, with a lasting note of raisin. Tasted three times with mostly consistent results.
Vivacious and juicy blackberry flavors are spiced by cola and root beer on the nose of this annual fund-raising bottling by Raymond Smith, and it also shows a touch of chalk on the nose. River stones and gravel minerality are present on the sip, with fresh black plum, more blackberry and dried mint rounding it out.
Vivacious cola and pomegranate fruit gain complexity with lava-rock minerality, cigar box and woodfire ash on the nose of this appellation blend. The palate offers perfumy purple flowers and blackberry, quite quaffable though not especially complex.
Vivacious notes of yellow plum and pear are shaded in tones of savory herb and earth in this dry light-bodied Riesling. Lemon and tart tangerine acidity jolt the midpalate into a brisk finish. Drink now.
Vivacious on the nose, with hibiscus flowers, pomegranate, strawberry, rose petal and cola aromas, this bottling from a historic vineyard is both juicy and delicate at the same time. Vibrant flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, hibiscus and even red melon show on the palate, enhanced by dried fennel, sage and purple flowers.
Vivid and snappy, this was fermented in stainless steel, with a small percentage aged in neutral barrels to soften the mouthfeel. It's spicy and fresh, with a mix of fruit flavors including grapefruit and pineapple. A touch of vanilla enlivens the aromas.
Vivid aromas of cherry and blackberry set the stage for flavors of black cherry and black raspberry with a hint of citrus zest in this garnet-colored wine. Full-on fruit flavors remain on the palate well into the persistent finish.
Vivid aromas of tart cherry and cranberry are followed by equally vivid, crisp and tangy flavors that echo the cherry and cranberry but add richer plum notes and nuances of cinnamon, nutmeg and cedar. This is so well balanced and bright that it tastes lip-smacking delicious now but will improve with age through at least 2020.
Vivid aromas of toasted bread, butter and white pepper lead to more oak-related notes on the palate, where flavors reminiscent of vanilla and nutmeg are backed by light lemon and apple notes. This bold, dry wine offers plenty of oaky character.
Vivid berry flavors drive this medium-bodied, lively and firmly tannic wine. It has good acidity that combines with the fine-grained tannins for an especially tangy mouthfeel.
Vivid black cherry lights up the aroma and floods the flavors of this full-bodied, expressive wine. Attractive nuances of rhubarb and clove add complexity. The purity of fruit and absence of obvious oak give great focus and brightness that continue through the lingering finish. It will be best after 2018.
Vivid flavors and an unusually firm texture make this a bold, structured and noteworthy wine with good potential for mid-term aging. It is dry, has pure raspberry and blackberry on the palate, fine-grained tannins for grip and a lingering finish.
Vivid flavors and zippy fruit acidity give this medium-bodied blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon a big but refreshing personality. It has vibrant citrus and fresh herb aromas, crisp grapefruit and lemon flavors, and a sense of depth on the palate without being heavy. There are so many ways this would start a meal off right.
Vivid fruit flavors light up this extroverted Viognier, starting in the aroma and lasting through the long finish. It tastes like apricot, orange, pineapple, vanilla and cream. Good acidity keeps it lively and fresh, balancing the full body.
Vivid fruit flavors meet spicy new oak accents in this full-bodied, extroverted GSM. It smells like toasted bread, cloves and cinnamon, and tastes like ripe blackberries and smoked bacon while a very firm, grippy, nicely tannic texture completes the picture.
Vivid grapefruit and crisp apple notes give a big personality to this medium-bodied wine. A light sweetness takes off the acidic edge, while oaky and earthy accents linger on the finish. It's a terrific value and not hard to find.
Vivid herb and mineral aromas and equally vibrant citrus and herb flavors give this wine a bright personality. It has enough body and near-sweetness to match all that energy and find balance.
Vivid pepper and rounded red plum notes are joined by hints of cinnamon—reminiscent of freshly baked plum tart. This is a soft, pliable but very full-fruited wine. Lovers of Pinot should definitely try St. Laurent—here it is in a very approacheble and supercharming, medium-bodied red.
Vivid plum and prune aromas and flavors define this generous and rather soft-textured wine. The fruit component is so rich it's jammy, and the tannins are very mild. The overall effect is grapy, almost sweet.
Vivid red-cherry and raspberry flavors and a rather high level of sweetness make this medium-bodied wine seem light and easy. A vanilla accent and soft texture come through on the palate.
Vivid with acidity yet deep and rich in body, this dry, voluptuous wine brings out the best of a difficult vintage for Germany. It's fresh on the palate with bright apple and pear flavors, touched with nuances of bramble, spice, pollen and caramel that add complexity to the long finish.
Vivid, bright red cherry and cranberry notes create the main aroma and flavor impressions, while crisp acidity and lip-smacking tannins make a firm texture. On subsequent sips, more complexity and depth come out as the crisp, austere structure holds its ground. This is tantalizing, and should improve through 2019.
Vivid, fresh apple aromas and flavors plus light banana and butter notes and a tangy but rich texture make this medium-bodied, Rhône-style wine more than simple refreshment. There is depth and interest in the fruit flavors and the mouthfeel. It's made from Roussanne and Viognier grapes.
Vivid, tangy cherry and raspberry flavors practically light up this medium-bodied, polished and complex wine. It pours out red cherry, cranberry and raspberry in refreshing bursts with each sip, with a lightly astringent, lip-smacking finish.
Vivid, tangy fruit flavors like raspberry and strawberry come with a light sweetness in this medium-bodied lightly tannic wine.
Vividly fragrant, with silky smooth tannins framing the ensemble. The wine features black cherry, blackberry, sage, coffee, spice, anise, clove and a hint of bright raspberry on the finish. Full-bodied yet balanced and elegant, it is long and lush to the end.
Vividly pink in color, this is a light and sweet wine. There is a sugary aftertaste followed by fresh, crisp acidity.
VJB's estate Syrah, from Sonoma Valley, is vintage variable, and 2004 was kind to it. The grapes got quite ripe, so the wine, which is slightly hot, shows lush flavors of black and red currants, dates and figs, chocolate macaroons, anisette and peppery spices. Yet it maintains a balancing backbone of acids.
VM's 2010 Cellar Selection SB is slightly weightier than its Private Bin counterpart, but not necessarily better. Tomato leaf notes cruise alongside bold pineapple and citrus, ending in a mouthwatering crescendo of flavor.
VM takes a huge leap in the Syrah race with this wine. It's inky purple in color, with hints of pepper, espresso and black olive accenting blueberry and blackberry fruit. A plush coating partially conceals ample structure, while the richly textured finish lingers a good long time. Drink now–2025.
VMR stands for Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne, which are blended together in this flamboyantly floral version of a Rhône-style white. Apricot, melon and citrus flavors strike the palate with a lush, almost oily impression, yet finish long and crisp. Drink now.
Voiles (sails) seems an appropriate name for a wine that comes from near the resort of Saint-Tropez. This attractively packaged wine is soft and rounded, with just the right amount of acidity and red currant fruits to keep it fresh and fruity.
Volatile and sharp, this well-aged (though current) release tastes of vanilla, maple syrup and cut tobacco. After lengthy aging (48 months) in 60% new oak, the wood flavors have taken over.
Volatile and showing some scents of glue, this hides its cherry fruit. It's drinkable, but for those with a high sensitivity to volatility it may be problematic.
Volatile aromas are backed by abundant strawberry and cherry notes. The palate packs a mouthful of bold and puckering dried-cranberry flavors, backed by lightly astringent tannins.
Volatile aromas include pie cherry and red plum. In the mouth, this is choppy and aggressive. Herbal red-fruit flavors are woody but also green, while an herbal, oak-driven finish is brisk and edgy.
Volatile aromas lead into fruit flavors that could be anything. It's more like Roussanne than Pinot Noir.
Volatile aromas lead to broad cranberry and raspberry flavors. It shows more age than its vintage might indicate.
Volatile aromas of cranberry, cherry and vanilla are followed by gritty lightly sweet cranberry and green-pepper flavors that show some astringency. The concentration seems lacking.
Volatile aromas provide significant distraction. The black- and blue-fruit flavors are easy drinking but can't provide enough counterbalance.
Volatile, minty, piercing aromas are hot and devoid of elegance. This reduced, high-acid number is clipped on the palate. Flavors of vinegar, oak and sour plum finish with a covering of unhelpful minty oak.
Volcanic ash over granite gives this vineyard its structured character, which carries over into this wine. Wood aged in large barrels, it has a rich firm character that will allow the wine to develop. Powered by acidity and tannins, the ripe black fruits are juicy and concentrated. Drink this wine from 2018.
Volpaia is the proud author of one of Chianti Classico's most enjoyable dessert wines. This luscious Vin Santo (a blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia aged in small barrels called caratelli) is velvety soft and decadent with lingering tones of orange zest, resin, dried ginger, candied fruit and a tiny hint of musk.
Volpolo is a big, ripe, succulent wine with ripe fruit and a broad approach. It delivers tones of black cherry, currant berry and spice over a tightly knit structure. You could call it a comfort wine because it is easy and satisfying.
Voluptuous and a bit brawny, this ebulliently perfumed Gewürztraminer is hardly a wall flower. It's lavishly fruity, bursting of sun-kissed grapefruit, lychee and white-peach flavors. Yielding acidity and a richly dense mouth-filling texture leave a lingering kiss of warmth on the finish. Drink now through 2019.
Voluptuous and almost creamy on the palate, this very dry yet intensely fruity Riesling is chock full of sweet white peach and orange blossom flavors, balanced by a shimmer of minerality and piercing acidity on the long finish.
Voluptuous and bold, this intensely aromatic Gewürztraminer explodes from the glass in plumes of ripe lychee, peach and apricot perfume. Dry and full bodied in style, it's richly textured in mouthfeel. While soft in acidity, it's surprisingly balanced for its brawn.
Voluptuous and broad, this richly textured auslese suggests soft yellow apples and fleshy tangerines. It's a bit fat on the palate, but sunny acidity lends some freshness on the midpalate. Drink now.
Voluptuous and expansive in texture, this wine offers a wealth of honey-apple and margarita-lime flavor accented by a streak of stone. The richness is balanced by juicy acidity that lifts the experience all along to the finish.
Voluptuous and heady, this lychee and mango-scented wine balances juicy tropical fruit flavor with a hefty dose of spice. It's expansive on the palate with a rich, textured mouthfeel, but tightened with a hint of tangerine acidity. A touch of alcoholic heat marks the finish.
Voluptuous and inviting, this Malbec has softened tannins amid bright blue and black fruit and wild cinnamon flavors. Structured and concentrated this is a memorable wine that will age another 5–10 years and go deliciously with a range of foods.
Voluptuous and savory, this Syrah is blended with 10% Viognier and the aromatics benefit as a result, a minerally mix of floral raspberry and vanilla. Earthy and leathery on the palate, it shows a taste of baked plum on the finish, as well as tobacco, a nice balance between Syrah's darker and brighter sides.
Voluptuous blackberry and plum flavors are edged by hints of bitter coffee and spice in this richly bodied wine. Fringed by a bare feather of tannins, it's luscious in mouthfeel, with an unctuousness that persists luxuriously on the palate.
Voluptuous in wild strawberry, cranberry and tart cherry, Quintus is light and suggestively chalky, balanced in velvety tannins and a backbone of structure. Dancing in the background is a taste of black tea and dark, fragrant earth.
Voluptuous notions of orange oil segue into a more earthy notion of lemon-anointed autumn leaves. Lots goes on here: the fresh peel of rosy apples, grated lemon zest and wet earth, all combined on a very smooth palate. This is highly drinkable and full of moreish allure.
Voluptuous white peach and lighter butter notes form a classic nose set against a chalky backbone of lemon verbena and pink apple skins. The palate is tightly knit with lime skins, quinine and pink grapefruit pith, proving versatile and tartly acid-driven in style.
Voluptuous, lush, a wine of great power. Packed with cedar-inspired flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, currants, cassis, cola, licorice and spice, wrapped into a texture of velvet and silk. Delicious and compelling. Only 126 cases produced.
Voluptuously exotic in Asian pear and honeyed hazelnut on the nose, this savory and ultimately lean wine is balanced and elegant, with a richness of texture and juicy mouthfeel on the midpalate and finish. Made in small quantities, it has a lovely label and is well worth looking out for.
Voluptuously full-bodied and smoky, this 100% varietal wine imparts characteristics of cedar, herb and cigar on its grippy and generous palate. This is a reserve-level wine that delivers on that promise, it finishes awash in fists of black pepper.
Voluptuously honeyed with swirls of caramel, this single-vineyard estate wine is expansive on the palate. Toast, Good & Plenty candy and lemon meringue intertwine on the nose and palate atop a chalky texture and lingering acidity.
Voluptuously lush and creamy, this is thick in vanilla swirls and crème brûlée, with full-bodied concentration of baked apple. Rich and round, it finishes in a yeasty tone of brioche.
Voluptuously rich and concentrated, this full-bodied wine is spectacular in leather, tobacco and a whiff of grilled game. While dense, and age-worthy, now through 2022, it remains balanced and vibrant on the palate and would make a wonderful companion to hearty foods.
Voluptuously smooth, this wine is dark and brambly in tangy blackberry and black currant, offering a length and breadth of texture and big flavor. Earthy, with accents of cedar, it has a toasted oak flavor that adds to the complexity and intrigue.
Voluptuously succulent and welcoming, this coastal wine seduces with its caramel apple, pear and preserved lemon flavors, edged with high-toned acidity and an exotic touch of seaspray. That sense of the sea plays out on the palate in texture, too, with a stony note that lingers in nutty spice.
Voluptuously tropical in shaved coconut and silky layers of peach and pear, this is a complex, age-worthy white from a stellar vineyard site, a knockout version of the variety. Smooth and round, it maintains a core of acidity that buoys the experience, finishing with a flourish. Drink now through 2022.
Von Schubert bottled two eisweins from the Herrenberg in 2009. This one is pale in color, with intense pineapple and honey flavors. The wine is sweet, luscious and viscous yet never cloying, with a long finish that features unfolding layers of fruit flavor.
Von Strasser continues to produce stunning Cabernets that are not only delicious when released, but ageable. This estate bottling is superbly rich in cassis and cedar, and while the tannins are thick, they're sweet and intricate. Great now and should develop through 2012, at least.
Von Strasser has a good track record with this wine, and the '05 is right up there with the best, but be forewarned. It's very tannic. But then, it is from Diamond Mountain. Give it a good 4 years, at least, to throw some sediment and let the rich blackberry and black currant flavors emerge. Should hold well for 15 years.
Vranken's releases seem to be bucking the trend towards drier Champagnes. This wine is soft and obviously the dosage is high. It is balanced and the fresh creamed apple flavors and light texture all work well together. It is in a light style, ready to drink.
Vrucara represents a new, exciting page in the story of Sicily's most important indigenous grape, Nero d'Avola. The purity of the fruit comes through loud and clear, and the wine doesn't deliver that bittersweet finish you sometimes get. Instead, it shows cherry, spice and an elegant mineral tone.
VS stands for “Vouvray Style,” a nod to the Loire Valley. Notes of citrus and mineral stand out first, seeming almost tart, like a squeeze of lemon, followed by a touch of almond. Pair this with seafood, especially scallops or raw oysters.
Vuj does a nice job of portraying those rich aromas of peach, melon and white rose that are natural to the promising Friulano grape. Made with the banner variety of northeast Italy, this easy white wine shows fresh fruit layers and balanced acidity.
Vulcano, in homage to the might Mt. Vesuvius, opens with tight aromas of cola, blackberry, licorice and root beer. The wine is compact and linear with some sharp, brambly elements due to high acidity and tannins.
Vultur captures the essence of volcanic  soil, expressing notes of wet earth, crushed stone, ash, tobacco and dried berry, plus dusty, firm tannins.
VV refers to the old vines that are at the heart of this impressive wine. It has great concentration both from the richly structured fruit and tannins. New wood comes through richly on this powerhouse of texture and density. Give the wine at least six years to mature.
Wölffer's dusty pink Grandioso has a saline minerality on the nose, accenting whiffs of raspberry and peach. As with the producer's standard-bottle rosé, the palate is crisp with acidity, but more intensely concentrated with juicy white peach and yellow cherry flavors. The elegant finish carries a touch of cherry blossom perfume.
Wadleith offers fullness and generosity with bright aromas of yellow rose and stone fruit followed by touches of almond and cinnamon spice. The wine closes with a smooth, waxy feel and a touch of heat on the close.
Waffles and maple syrup in the aroma, and blackberries in the flavor seem to recommend this full-bodied wine for breakfast time. In fact it is a little sweet, and those maple-like notes continue in the flavors along with vanilla and cinnamon.
Wafting baked bread aromas create a warm, inviting entry in this wine, which reveals medium-bodied layers of tart, tangy citrus, cranberry and pomegranate as it opens. High-toned yet deep, it offers balance and complexity and lingers on the finish.
Wafts of campfire smoke, vanilla bean and wet granite greet the nose. The palate shows lemon-lime soda and hard caramel candies, with a touch of bitterness. It's clean and well made, but not too showy.
Waipara is becoming better known for its Rieslings, thanks to wines like this one. Bold pineapple and kumquat aromas and flavors come across as broad and off-dry without being flabby or fat, then end with a flourish of baking spices and a hint of cracked pepper. Drink now–2015.
Waipara isn't usually considered Sauvignon Blanc country, but this is a creditable effort, boasting ample melon and fig flavors and a shot of grassiness on the otherwise soft finish.
Waitaki Valley is an increasingly popular region for Pinot Noir, although the number of producers is quite small. This is a pale, delicate rendering of Pinot Noir, with floral and beetroot notes, silky tannins and a long, mushroomy finish.
Waiting to release this wine greatly benefits the experience, with inviting aromas of blueberry pie and perfectly roasted meat emerging. There still are strong tannins, but they're more digestible, with flavors of red and light purple fruits, violet, mocha, and plum skin.
Wakefield (known as Taylor's in Australia) was founded as a Cabernet-focused estate. While the range has expanded over time, Cabernet Sauvignon remains a strength. Brown sugar and cedar frame cassis fruit on the nose; the palate shows just enough juicy, mouthwatering fruit to support the ample oak. This is full bodied yet supple, with crisp acids showing on the finish.
Wakefield (known as Taylors in Australia) was founded in Clare with the goal of producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, so it's no surprise this wine is a solid effort. Cassis and black-tea notes are carried easily by the medium body and dusty tannins that turn silkier on the finish. Drink now–2025.
Wakefield is a reliable producer of Clare Valley wines, and the Chard is no exception. Toasted nuts mingle easily alongside grilled pineapple and peach notes, and the almost plush texture of this wine gives it another dimension. Contains 4% Viognier. Drink now.
Wakefield was founded as a Cabernet producer, so it's no surprise that the 2009 is a very good drop. The cassis fruit carries a slightly herbal tinge, with hints of coffee and vanilla helping to frame the fruit. It's lush and velvety in texture, making it drinkable now and over the next several years.
Walla Walla Valley-designated white wines are a rarity. This one brings aromas of apple skin and pear, showing a very clean profile that leads to dry creamy-feeling fruit flavors. It's capped off by a warm finish, speckled with barrel accents. Overall, it provides a lot of intrigue.
Walla Walla Valley-designated whites are a rarity. Here aromas of vanilla, toast, honeysuckle and peach show nuance and detail and lead to sweet, light bodied, lightly spritzy stone-fruit flavors with a long finish that commands attention.
Walla Walla Valley Barbera is rare, although this producer consistently makes one. Its toasty spice, tart cherry and herb aromas give way to well-balanced plum and cherry flavors, needing food to truly shine.
Walla Walla Vintners wines generally offer a sophisticated blend of vineyard sources and mixed varietals, and this Cab includes modest proportions of Merlot, Cab Franc, Carmenère, Malbec and Petit Verdot. It rounds out into a broadly flavorful bowl of chocolate-covered cherries, with a whiff of tobacco and forest coming through as well. Powerful and seductive, it will please those who love ripe black fruits and plenty of sweet and creamy new oak.
Wallulla Vineyard provides the majority of the fruit for this Chardonnay. The lemon verbena and floral aromas and flavors are dialed way down here, with full malolactic fermentation providing a creamy feel.
Wallywood is a Rhône-style red, half Syrah, 40% Mourvèdre and the wild card 10% Petite Sirah. Still young, stiff and tight, its brambly berry flavors are accented with streaks of earth, herb and mineral. This could use another few years in the bottle to open up. Otherwise, give it plenty of breathing time.
Wallywood is a Rhône-style red, with two thirds Syrah, while Grenache, Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah fill in the rest. It surprises with its elegance, despite hefty alcohol and tannic components. It's a very well-done blend, melding together flavors of plum, berry, herb, stem, earth and iron.
Walnut and almond aromas share the bouquet with melon and apple scents. This feels fleshy and resiny, with a generic mix of white-fruit flavors and oak. A bulky, woody, creamy finish with tropical fruit flavors is kept afloat by firm acidity.
Walnut oil and grit on the nose are not exactly welcoming aromas. This feels oily, while the palate delivers little more than a quick hit of tropical fruit flavors followed by a nutty, bitter finish.
Walnut oil, orange rinds and burned caramel converge for a Scotch-like aroma on the nose of this late harvest wine. Sour orange and bitter walnut flavors show on the sip.
Want dense tannins? Then this your wine. Of course, it has much more than that. It has mineral-driven stone fruit flavors, a sense of terroir, of restrained power. It also has a serious side, and definite aging potential.
Warm-vintage characteristics of earthy berry aromas require time to come into focus. In the mouth, this Cabernet Sauvignon blend feels ripe, chunky and lush. Loamy, baked plum and cassis flavors are rich and easy, but short on the complexity that Almaviva usually offers. On the finish, this is smooth, lightly herbal and spicy. Drink through 2022.
Warm and aromatic hints of ripe Bosc pear pervade the aromatics of this wine. The palate has a rounded, ripe feel but remains beautifully slender, expressing more of that pear fruit now highlighted by citrus freshness. It's a very balanced, dry wine with a clean finish.
Warm and clean seared-apple notes greet the nose on this bottling, with white peach, apple blossom and concrete aromas. The palate is complex, with lemon-skin and herbal lemon-verbena flavors, bound together in tight acidity.
Warm and complete, with oak-influenced char and licorice along with black fruits on the bouquet. An elegant Uco Valley specimen with refined, full-force flavors of cola, blackberry, tobacco and chocolate. Turns more complex and satisfying on the finish. Drink this high-quality value now through 2013. A blend of Malbec at 50%, with Cabernet, Petit Verdot and Syrah.
Warm and creamy, this fills the palate with apple and pink grapefruit flavors. A touch of spice adds interest to this ripe, fruity effort that is ready to drink. Screwcap.
Warm and earthy at first, but more soupy as it opens. Crisp, snappy red-fruit flavors are also on the herbal side. Nervy yet it does show a reasonable amount of honest Rioja quality. Still, for a 2001 reserva it doesn't amount to much.
Warm and forward, this opens with aromas of prune marinated in spirits, menthol, toast and dark cooking spices. The palate offers raisin, raw cherry, menthol and clove alongside dusty tannins.
Warm and fruity, this has an open apricot flavor that's balanced by spice and vanilla from the wood aging. Citrus flavors give a fresh, more medicinal finish.
Warm and fruity, this has the right amount of wood and sweetly ripe blackberry flavor. It is certainly structured, but the generous texture balances it, making it likely to age into a full, ripe character. Drink in 4–5 years.
Warm and fruity, this is just what this style of wine should be. Red fruits, soft tannins and a generous, juicy character are already giving pleasure. Drink from 2015.
Warm and full-bodied, this opens with aromas of espresso, fig, dried berry, toasted oak and clove. The dense palate offers raisin, oak, roasted coffee bean and spearmint alongside round tannins. You'll also notice the heat of evident alcohol.
Warm and hearty, this opens with aromas that recall mature dark-skinned fruit, leather, truffle, scorched soil and a menthol note. The big, chewy palate delivers black cherry marinated in spirits, ground pepper and anise alongside a tannic backbone. The heat of evident alcohol dominates the finish and gives it a monolithic quality.
Warm and honeyed Chardonnay with toast and melon aromas. The body is big but the acidity is staunch enough to keep things moving. Flavors of toast and coconut sweeten up apple and melon fruit, and the finish is lasting.
Warm and juicy, this has a typical rustic edge. It's packed with plum and dark prune flavors, with a rounded and soft mouthfeel that's layered with attractive acidity. Glass stopper.
Warm and mulchy at first; this is a muscular, dark wine despite the bargain price, and it's tight, tannic and herbal but serious in weight, structure and depth. The palate shows creamy, oaky, herbal fruit in front of a full, grabby, tobacco-accented finish. Elevated size and structure is what brings it up a notch.
Warm and rich, even if still young, this is a rounded Champagne, full of ripe apple and spice, pink grapefruit, lined with intense acidity. Because it is still so young, it needs several years' aging.
Warm and rich, the wine from vineyards on the slopes above Cadillac have the structure of the vintage along with the ripe, blackberry fruits. It is already attractive to drink, and will continue to age nicely over the medium term.
Warm and ripe wine, very open with its red fruit acidity well integrated. There are tannins and a more dry character of course—this is a 2010 wine, but the main effect is of weight and some power.
Warm and ripe, it offers bitter cherry fruits, sweet berries and a layer of firm tannins. It's already balanced and delicious with weight and structure. At the end, it is all bright fruitiness.
Warm and ripe, this has fine honey and yellow fruit flavors. It has well-integrated acidity, with a touch of apple that lends a crisp finish.
Warm and ripe, this has yellow fruits that contrast with the freshness of crisp apples. There is a light touch of minerality, although the essence of the wine is its fruitiness.
Warm and ripe, this is a beautifully balanced wine. It is packed with black-currant fruits that are bursting out of the glass. A darker side comes with the tannins and new wood flavors that are still prominent. It looks likely the wine will develop slowly, so don't drink before 2025.
Warm and ripe, this is a delicious, structured wine from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot from Stéphane Dupuch. It has fine tannins that give a spicy character aided by 14 months in French oak as well as bold black fruits that are developing well. The acidity at the end adds the freshness. Drink from 2019.
Warm and ripe, this is a full-bodied rosé that has the weight and some of the tannins of a red wine. With its vivid pink color and sweet strawberry fruits, it's fruity and ready to drink.
Warm and ripe, this is a soft, green-plum- and quince-flavored wine. It is fruity, with some concentration providing a rich tang of orange zest on the finish.
Warm and robust, this full-bodied Barolo offers aromas of underbrush, scorched earth, tar and kirsch. The palate is bold and hearty but also shows the heat of the vintage, doling out cherry-marinated-in-spirits, licorice and clove alongside almost scorching alcohol. Drink sooner rather than later.
Warm and robust, this has aromas of underbrush, spiced plum, grilled sage, leather and a balsamic note. The tightly wound palate offers dried berry, fig, menthol and licorice alongside super-astringent tannins and the heat of alcohol. A note of roasted coffee bean signals the close.
Warm and round, this has a generous character, while missing some of the attractive crispness of the vintage. It is ready to drink now, soft and fruity.
Warm and round, this Mâcon has ripe melon and peach flavors that come with a citrusy edge. It has an attractive floral character that brings out the light minerality and acidity on the finish.
Warm and rounded wine, with almond flavor and the ripe red fruits to go with the intense and balancing acidity. The wine is rich, while also well textured, giving fine final acidity.
Warm and rounded, this is a soft, ripe rosé. The flavors of plums and red berries roll easily around the mouth, producing a wine that is full, rich and soft.
Warm and rounded, this spicy wine has wood flavors just showing through the ripe fruit. It is already delicious, with rich blackberry flavors right up front, although its aging potential is evident with the concentrated, deep structure.
Warm and rubbery on the nose, with earthy aromas of blackberry, black cherry and freshly laid blacktop. The palate is full, tannic and grapey, with dark fruit flavors and an herbal element. Finishes short, herbal and salty, with lasting meatiness.
Warm and smelling of menthol, cough syrup and sweet, jammy berry fruit. The palate is also fairly medicinal in terms of flavor, while the feel is a bit hard and underdeveloped. Turns more tart and herbal the more you get to know it.
Warm and soft, this is an apéritif style of Crémant, light and fruity. There is a light tang of orange zest followed by crisper citrus notes and green apples. Textured, fresh and ready to drink.
Warm and solid, with weight and color. The palate is well rounded and full, with sweet, semisticky berry flavors and a lashing of oak. The finish turns a little herbal and earthy, while the lasting flavors are of vanilla and wood resin.
Warm aromas of lemon preserves, smoked honeysuckle and lightly honeyed Marcona almonds are cut with a citrus freshness on the nose of this estate-grown wine. A citrus-blossom character starts the sip followed by rounded saltiness and apple-flesh flavor in the midpalate. It's altogether very luscious and yet enlivening to the mouth.
Warm aromas of lightly buttered apples, lemon cream croissant, yellow cake and dainty caramel invite the nose into this bottling by retired pro baseball players Dave Roberts (today manager of the L.A. Dodgers) and Rich Aurilia. The palate is creamy and buttery, but judiciously so, with custard flavors framed by a bright lemony acidity and finishing on vanilla bean.
Warm aromas of menthol, chocolate and black fruit are the opening act, which is followed by flashy flavors of grape bubble gum, blackberry and raspberry. Fairly spicy, full and chewy on the palate and finish, and overall it shows fire in the belly while never striving to outdo itself.
Warm aromas of mocha powder and spicy white pepper mesh with the boysenberry jam foundation on this wine by the region's pioneering Franscioni family. The intriguing palate shows a lot of fennel, tarragon and black pepper, with ripe but tart boysenberry fruit and prominent lavender elements. This great wine shows the grape's herbal potential.
Warm aromas of red cherries, star anise and cinnamon greet the nose with inviting brown spice scents on this entry-level bottling. Cinnamon, cranberry and black plum show on the palate, along with pencil-lead minerality and a tart plum-skin finish.
Warm aromas of yellow peach, baked-apple croissant, vanilla and marzipan show on the nose of this bottling from the longtime family-run winery near the town of Santa Ynez. It's soft and lush on the palate, with baked nectarine and poached pear. It's familiar for those who enjoy the ripe California style, but chiseled enough to appeal to others as well.
Warm aromas, mellow flavors and a plush texture make this full-bodied wine easy to appreciate. It smells like cherries, berries and baking spices, tastes generous and mouthfilling, and has a soothing layer of fine-grained tannins.
Warm baked aromas of oak resin and spice cake turned more charred as this Tannat opens. A pulling bone-dry palate is rough, while spicy savory black-fruit flavors finish resiny and oaky, with barrel-based chocolate residuals.
Warm berry-rhubarb pie notes mix with black pepper and an appealing, shy layer of green bell pepper on this blend of 50% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot from three vineyards. Stewed plums, cherries and strawberries dominate the tasty palate, with a proper acidity and woody bitterness as balance.
Warm blackberry aromas mesh with savory cooked meats, clove, allspice and campfire smoke on this bottling, which features lines from famous sonnets on the back label. The palate shows plum-pie flavors, with allspice, cinnamon and clove.
Warm butter and light toasted oak scents meld with smoked lemon and walnut hints on the nose of this reserve bottling. The palate is soft and almost sweet upon entry, its cashew and roasted apple flavors buttressed by a grippy tannic texture.
Warm butter, apple and saffron-chamomile aromas show on the nose of this bottling from winemaker-to-watch Colin Murphy. It's classic Chardonnay on the palate, with pan-seared apple and sea salt touches.
Warm caramel-laden notes of French toast and baking bread mix with black-cherry paste and shaved vanilla on the nose of this bottling. It's rich and full on the palate, with loads of black currant and plum fruit, a touch of teriyaki and a delicious chocolate-chip-cookie quality. The medium tannins are approachable, making this easy to drink right now.
Warm cherry fruit enfolds the palate, with supporting, lemony acids. This subtle, graceful wine both intrigues and invites, still promising a bit more than it delivers, but holding the potential for future greatness. Cellar it and try again 2018–2025.
Warm cherry pie and hibiscus notes meet with candied vanilla and cream soda elements on the nose of this bottling. The palate is rounded with red fruit and a clay minerality in the background.
Warm dark fruit aromas of blueberry are accented by rubber and earth. The palate is deep and racy, with no dead weight and good flavors of berry, cassis, spice and chocolate. Bright in feel, focused and just oaky and dry enough to not be jammy and soft. 35,000 cases made.
Warm dusty oaky aromas come prior to a citric palate that's high in acidity and thus austere. Salty citrus flavors are monotone and fail to alter path on a salty woody finish.
Warm earth, leather, black fruit and herbal aromas set up a palate that's bolstered by tartaric acidity that doesn't last long. Flavors of olive, lactic oak, herbal plum and blackberry finish creamy and chewy.
Warm earthy berry aromas are mostly solid. This Tannat has a fresh rubbery mouthfeel and dark peppery flavors of mixed black fruits. The finish deals chocolate, coffee and spice notes. For entry-level Uruguayan Tannat, this is a good one.
Warm earthy ripe aromas of raisin, baked berry fruits and prune are typical of Jumilla and Monastrell, which is 85% of this blend along with 15% Syrah. Punchy and tannic, but not fierce, this is ripe and tastes of raisin, prune and dried herbs. A lasting finish is raisiny and choppy.
Warm notes of cured meat and spice eventually give way to dried currants and blackberry. This Vino Nobile is rich and saturated with a pretty ruby color and tart, firm tannins that give it structure and staying power.
Warm notes of dried hay flower, pear and wet earth appear on the nose. The palate frames these in pervasive lemon freshness. This is refreshing and concentrated with a textured harmonious body. This is energetic and full with a dry but lasting finish.
Warm notes of toasted brioche and smoked nuts accent high-toned lemon and apple tones in this brisk, boldly petillant blanc de blancs. The palate is bright with lemony acidity, and sweet biscuit notes by linger on the finish.
Warm red-berry aromas are simple and fresh, a hallmark of a good Alicante wine. This is a touch sharp and drawing on the palate, with cherry, plum and berry flavors. Crisp and focused on the finish, this ranks as an ideal everyday quaffer.
Warm red-cherry aromas meet with light hints of sage and leather on the very shy nose of this bottling from one of the region's larger growers. The flavors are also light and rustic, with tart cranberry and hints of leather and game.
Warm spice and dark fruit tones with cured meat, bresaola, licorice, black pepper, leather and tobacco define this expression. The wine is plush rich, structured and firm.
Warm spice and oak tones accent fresh apples and lemons on this full-bodied Chardonnay. It's not subtle with a dense slick of caramel that extends along the midpalate, but a kick of lemon-lime acidity on the finish adds some levity.
Warm spice and smoke aromas start this stylish wine. Rich red berry, smoke and peppery spice flavors are integrated, and smooth tannins give the wine an accessible feel. Pair with game, robust cheeses and grilled meats.
Warm spice, vanilla and cedar tones accent blackberry and cherry on the nose of this ripe, luxurious Merlot. Fleshy black fruits are densely concentrated on the palate, refreshed by a cool menthol breeze that extends through the finish. Powerful tannins linger.
Warm spicy wintertime scents like cinnamon, clove and nutmeg meet baked fruit flavors and a broad soothing texture in this full-bodied wine. The color has an amber tint at the rim, the texture is absolutely mouth-filling but gentle, and the finish lingers nicely. The husband-wife winemaking duo let native yeast ferment the wine, and then aged it in 33% new French barrels from Remond.
Warm toast, vanilla and spice notes are inviting on this deeply penetrating Merlot. Despite its rich black-fruit profile, the palate is surprisingly delicate displaying tart cranberry notes that linger long and lean.
Warm tones of cured meat, wet earth and wild mushroom are balanced out by brighter notes of wild berry, cherry and cassis. This is a modern Barbera d'Alba with a rich palate, crisp acidity and long persistency (at an attractive price).
Warm tones of marzipan, roasted almond, yellow peach, pineapple and a touch of coconut are reminiscent of a piña colada on the nose of this bottling from a vineyard just behind the coastal town of Cambria. Gala apples and poached pears show on the sip along with lemon curd, chalk and meringue flavors, all tightly woven into a fresh expression of the grape.
Warm touches of lemon-laced chamomile tea, soft butter and a dollop of orange sherbert show on the nose of this intriguing and unique wine from the Sierra Madre Vineyard. There's a strong sense of baking soda-like alkalinity to the palate, laced through juicy lemon and tangerine flavors, pithy grip, slate minerality and a mouth-watering combo of acidity and salt.
Warm vanilla notes are laid across ripe nectarine, apple skin and a twist of lemon rind on this single-vineyard study by the Los Gatos-based winery. Pencil lead kicks off the palate, which then opens into poached apples and lemon oil, laid across a sizzling acidity that lasts long.
Warm whiffs of cinnamon and brioche accent aromas of black cherry and plum on this plush, fruit-forward Saperavi. Plummy and soft with black-fruit flavor, it's a straightforward, yet tasty wine. Finishes with a fringe of fine, delicate tannins.
Warm while also fresh, this rounded wine is full of red fruits, lit up by a touch of spice and freshened with acidity. Clean and crisp, it's just bursting with fruit at the end.
Warm wood and spicy flavors are the hallmark of this smooth, elegant Blaufränkisch. The ripe fruit flavors show black plums, dark figs, and cranberry tannins. The wood, polishing the rough edges of minerality, fits the texture well.
Warm woodsy berry and prune aromas blend with notes of animal fur and mint. This is full and grabby, but not out of shape. Flavors of raisin and blackberry feature accents of charred oak and creosote, while this ends with roasted, blackened, meaty flavors, mild heat and sticky tannins. Drink through 2021.
Warm yellow apple, light custard and white peach combine for a creamy nose on this bottling from the Riboli family's new estate vineyard. The sip starts with a sizzle of acidity and then shows flavors of caramelized green apples and a touch of banana, proving both a tad tart and a tad rich.
Warm, baked and dusty on the nose, with black cherry and cassis along with brick dust, olive and spice aromas. The palate is healthy and full, with punchy, snappy flavors of cherry, raspberry and spiced marmalade. Creamy, sweet and rooty on the finish. Drink now through 2015.
Warm, baked aromas smell of clay and raisin, and later a wave of minty green enters the picture. The palate is sort of lean, with some holes in the fabric, while flavors of wild berry and black fruits fold in a heavier note of molasses. Limited in its virtues; short in complexity.
Warm, cinnamon-spiced blueberry and plum flood the palate, while approachable and supple tannins charm their way from start to long finish. This has wonderful balance of structure, fruit and medium-full body. This has huge charm right now and is very seductive, but it will also age well, if you can wait.
Warm, earthy and stewed smelling, but then sharp and tangy and acidic in the mouth. Red fruits are dominant, but there's a persistent scour to the wine that doesn't allow it to get to the next level of quality or ripeness.
Warm, earthy aromas of molasses, moss and baked fruit scream rich and big, and the palate matches that early announcement with cola, baked blackberry, coffee and syrupy flavors. Weighty and forceful, but not without style and a flash of elegance. Pure Toro; drink now through 2012.
Warm, earthy plum and tomato aromas turn horsey with airing. Flavors of spiced but lightly weedy red-berry fruits, tomato and herbs finish with a creamy, candied texture.
Warm, earthy, dusty aromas of red plum and smoky oak turn toastier the longer this sits. A fresh but balanced palate offers equal amounts of snappy acidity and creamy weight, while tart plum and spice flavors finish toasty and charred, with crisp acidity generating length.
Warm, earthy, jammy berry aromas are oaky and bring a note of latex into the fold. This chunky Malbec is tannic and grabby, with oaky flavors of black plum and vanilla set against herbal undertones. Spice, chocolate, carob and drawing tannins create a bold but rough finish.
Warm, earthy, slightly horsey berry aromas are brambly and spicy. This Malbec feels flush but reduced and hard at the edges. Potent but crude boysenberry and plum flavors show a raisiny note, while this is long at the end, with earth notes and lemon peel. Drink through 2018.
Warm, earthy, ultraripe aromas of blackberry, raisin and cassis announce a bold, forward, fiercely tannic palate. Flavors of lactic oak, baked blackberry, cassis and licorice finish long, toasty, dark and chocolaty. This is brash, powerful and modern. Lusty and built to age; drink from 2018–2032.
Warm, fragrant and juicy, this is an off-dry, just peppery wine, full of ripe peach and pear flavors. Very fruity and delicious.
Warm, fruity and ripe, this offers a good balance between a ripe, creamy, yellow-fruit character and juicy acidity that refreshes and gives a crisp aftertaste. The wine is totally ready to drink.
Warm, furry aromas of olive, prune and animal hide are challenging. In the mouth, this cool-year Carmenère feels tartaric and narrow, with grating tannins. Fiery flavors of black fruits, raisin and oak are mildly salty and herbal, while the finish feels hot and tastes of minty oak and black fruits.
Warm, jammy and lightly herbal smelling, with an overriding aroma of blueberry compote. Fairly full and concentrated on the palate, with herb-infused flavors of dark berry and plum. Plump, warm and chewy on what amounts to a solid finish.
Warm, leathery cherry and plum aromas are ripe and rugged. This blend of Petit Verdot, Carmenère and Cabernet Sauvignon feels choppy but bold due to firm acidity. Prickly, oaky flavors of mixed berries and green herbs end on a note of mild heat.
Warm, lightly baked aromas of plum, cherry and dust set up a layered palate with just enough acidity to keep this wine upright and steady. Flavors of loamy berry, earth and chocolate are rich, while the finish tastes oaky, with more than enough vanilla and toast. Drink now.
Warm, loamy, baked berry and cherry scents are the lead aromas on this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Syrah that also brings a green character into play. Hard acidity makes for a rough palate, while heavy oaking has created flavors of cheese and vanilla as well as spiced berry. Edgy tannins, leftover grit and green notes conclude things.
Warm, loamy, oaky aromas of pastry and blackberry set up a tannic, jammy, cheek-pounding mouthfeel. This is 75% Malbec and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It's dark and chocolaty, with blackberry, prune and coffee flavors. A heaping of chocolate and fig makes the finish quite friendly; drink through 2019.
Warm, plummy and inviting, with plum and black cherry fruit framed by crisp acidity. The combination makes for a juicy, mouthwatering finish in this fine everyday red.
Warm, rich aromas of wild berry carry a hint of dried cheese, while the rest of the bouquet is woodsy and spicy. The palate is juicy with fresh acidity, and the flavors of red plum and raspberry are solid. A structured wine with good DNA. Drink now through 2011.
Warm, rich wine with tropical flavors of mango, peach and with a ripe feel. It has weight, although the fruit does hint at crispness. There is a toast and nuts character that broadens out the interest.
Warm, rich, with a southern Chardonnay ripeness, this shows high toast, but also ripe tropical fruit. The acidity is light, with a creamy texture, and added spice and richness. It's a harmonious style that needs 3–4 years.
Warm, ripe and round, this red-fruited wine has a fine feeling of richness. It is soft and fruity, with just the right amount of acidity to balance. Ready to drink.
Warm, ripe and rounded, this is a soft and attractive wine. It has touches of wood as well as some firm tannins that are embedded in the soft texture. It's a wine that will develop quickly and well. Drink from 2016.
Warm, ripe cherry flavors marry easily with fresh herbal notes to give this silky, medium-bodied wine ample complexity. Amid the dark cherry fruit lurk notes of cola and baking spices, all gliding to a long, elegant finish. Drink now–2020.
Warm, ripe, earthy aromas of plum and berry are welcoming. This is moderately tannic, with lasting acidity. Oaky aromas of coconut and vanilla blend nicely with loamy earth, black plum and prune flavors. A mellow, flavorful, smooth finish amounts to a fine ending; drink through 2020.
Warm, roasted aromas beckon and engage your interest, while in the mouth, the wine puts a tart citrus frame around blue-plum and black-cherry fruit. Streaks of cola, earth and coffee bring further highlights.
Warm, round and full-flavored, this is packed with in-your-face flavors of cooked strawberries, blackberries and cherry-pie filling. The explosion of rich ripe fruit is captivating, and though it may not be right for long term cellaring, it's ready right now and most enjoyable. Drink now through 2020.
Warm, rounded and open style of wine with attractive fruits, hints of raisins and a smoky character. Not for aging.
Warm, rubbery berry aromas mixed with smoked meat and herbal accents make for a solid nose, and while the palate has clampy acidity and herbal notes, there's ample body, roundness and berry fruit to bring it home. Both leafy and candied on the finish.
Warm, sharp (15.3% alcohol) and spicy, this Roussanne has a lot of bite in the mouthfeel. Sharp, edgy citrus rind flavors lead quickly into a finish that also has a bitter edge, a bit like quinine or gin. But served chilled on a warm day, it makes a fine apéritif.
Warm, shimmering notes of ripe pear fill nose and palate. This generous fruit is countered by citric freshness on this dry, almost slender wine that pulls off a lovely balance and softness without losing its definition.
Warm, slightly leathery and earthy on the nose, with a hint of cheese. Feels full, nice and solid, with decent depth. Flavors of black fruits and pastry are friendly, while the finish is pleasant. Delivers all it can for the price.
Warm, slightly sweet aromas of smoked applewood and hickory waft from this rich and decadent Syrah sourced from the Fess Parker estate. On the dark fruit-laced palate are black currant and cherry cola flavors, bolstered by black licorice and followed by a long finish of vanilla cream.
Warm, soft-fruited wine, with fine ripe red berry fruits as well as a gentle tannic structure. There is an earthy Merlot edge to the blend, along with the more dry texture of Cabernet. For drinking next year.
Warm, soft and fruity, this has notes of spices, soft tannins and a light touch of acidity. Reflecting the warm vineyards of the Alentejo, it is ready to drink now.
Warm, spicy scents of brambly blackberry, spiced plum and fruit cake grace the bouquet of this 80% Syrah and 20% Carignan blend. Hints of graphite add intrigue, while soft tannins and fruit-skin flavors lend an attractive earthiness to the palate. An approachable and ready-to-drink selection.
Warm, sweet aromas of pear, apple and buttered toast crawl all over the nose. Like most Argentinean Chardonnays, this shows creamy white-fruit flavors and noted sweetness. It's fairly rich but not complex or layered. Drink soon for maximum freshness.
Warm, syrupy, jammy and brambly up front, with the grape's typical meaty, herbal aromas. The palate is soft save for core acidity, while the flavors run medium-rich and plummy, with controlled sourness. Solid for the money, with a chunky disposition.
Warm, toasty aromas are punctuated with whiffs of mature black berries and chocolate. The palate offers tart red cherry, black pepper and cinnamon-spice alongside the warmth of alcohol. It lacks the complexity one expects from a Brunello Riserva but it's well balanced and ready. Drink through 2020.
Warm, voluptuous, rich and generous, this wine has the right weight, along with firm, dark tannins and a bitter coffee flavor. The finish is warm and delicious.
Warmed croissant yeastiness matches up with sea salt and lemon butter on the nose of this bottling from the pioneering Santa Barbara Winery. The salinity carries on the palate, with apple pie and butterscotch presenting a nicely oaked but not overdone palate.
Warming aromatic notes of fresh and dried peach reach the nose. The palate revels in the peachy sweetness, adding a lovely, pleasantly bitter phenolic edge. The flavors are concentrated and have both a welcome tangy zesty edge and some honeyed spice. There is quite a bit of palpable warmth. This is full on and exploding with peachy fruit. The medium-sweet finish is long and warming. Drink 2017–2027.
Warming spice, cherry and plum on the nose and palate give this wine a food-friendly edge. A touch of smoke and mocha adds appeal. Pair with grilled meats, pastas.
Warming spices and smoke on the nose lead into an elegant balance of juicy berry, firm tannins and pepper. There's an earthy backbone to the wine but overall, it's bright and approachable. Pair with grilled meats.
Warming spices of cinnamon and clove with a touch of orange give this Chardonnay a unique appeal. Full of depth and dimension, the wine still has a light, deft touch. Pair with earthier, more complex dishes or enjoy alone.
Warmly sensuous in the mouth, this gentle and attractive Pinot Noir offers soft fruit, a mix of berries and plums, that slides gracefully across the palate. It's dappled with light hints of cracker and chocolate, and the balance is maintained until the very end, where there is a finishing heat spike from the 14.5% alcohol.
Warmth and mocha greet you, but dig as you might it's hard to settle on any particular fruit aromas or flavors. There is, however, plenty of cola, rooty flavors and baked characteristics. Finishes almost hot, with sticky tannins and a sprig of green. Drink now through 2009.
Warren Dutton planted the first vineyard block of this Russian River Valley producer, the Pinot a combination of Dijon and Pommard clones. In the hands of new winemaker Jerome Chéry, the wine is exotic in spicy cinnamon and cardamom, earthy and herbal with layers of dark cherry.
Was it the chilly vintage that made this wine so elusive? Tasted in the spring, it was oaky and jammy with raspberries and cherries, with the astringent tannins of green herb tea. Hard to tell where it's going, if anywhere, but it does have dryness and vital acidity in its favor.
Was probably better a year or two ago; now it's losing steam and smelling and tasting oily and pithy. Aromas of almond skins denote old age, and while there's still vital acidity and leftover citrus flavors, it's fast approaching its deadline. Best to wait for the 2010, or even the 2011.
Washington Roussanne, which is two thirds of the blend here, has sharp edges and some phenolic bite – it's not a round, fruity style. Take that into account, but pair this firm, woodsy, slightly bitter wine with pork roast or grilled chops and you'll have a match made in heaven.
Water Wheel's 2005 Shiraz is a full-bodied, creamy-textured effort filled with the scents and flavors of dark plums, vanilla and coffee. It's delicious now, but should evolve through 2020, thanks to its concentrated fruit and ample tannins.
Water Wheel wines consistently deliver quality and value. The winery's 2007 Shiraz is made in a decadently supple, drink-now style with enough cocoa and mocha overtones to bring chocolate cake to mind. There's some cedar and spice complexity as well. Drink now-2013.
Waterbrook consistently provides high-quality wines at affordable prices and this appealing Cabernet is just another example. Dark cherry, cocoa and barrel notes from a kiss of new American oak (19%) lead to a palate with broad cherry flavors and grainy tannins.
Waterbrook makes a  lovely, lighthearted, citrus- and melon-flavored Sauv Blanc. Crisp and elegant, it manages to be flavorful without being overpowering; it's a delightful summer sipping wine that will add zip to almost anything you serve it with.
Waterbrook offers up a clean, palate-refreshing style of Sauvignon Blanc, with fruit flavors of melon and mixed fruits.
Watercress and fleshy apricot meet in this wine and make that incongruous combination work. A savory undertone of yeast adds a deeper dimension where pepper, chervil, lovage and stone abandon themselves to riot. This so comes alive in the mouth and demands your attention. Wonderful balance, ripe fruit and a whole lot of savory play!
Watermelon and caramelized sugar notes waft sweetly from the nose of this dry Cabernet Franc rosé. While delicate in body, the palate suggests fleshy red-plum and cherry flavors. A streak of acidity leads a brisk clean finish.
Watermelon and light pomegranate fruit seem dusted in ash. Tannins are moderate but show some grip. It's a modest, quaffable effort without much varietal distinction.
Watermelon and strawberry fruit flavors, a bit faint, suggests grapes that were not quite ripe. Perfectly quaffable, with lightly earthy flavors and a finishing streak of herb.
Watermelon, blueberry and black cherry fruit come through in this Bordeax blend, the flavors light and forward, with details of pencil shavings, red licorice and moist earth. It offers good complexity in a lighter style, with a suggestion of heat in the finish.
Watermelon, cantaloupe and peach aromas are just as they should be, while the palate is whole, fresh and full of tangerine and nectarine. Compact, defined and complete, with a smooth, light finish. Nothing miraculous but great for summer sipping.
Watermelon, strawberry and pie-cherry fruit flavors showcase a light and quite pretty rosé. Bone-dry despite the very low alcohol, it's backed with crisp acidity, a dash of minerality, and a finishing whiff of cocoa powder.
Waterstone's non-reserve Cabernet is often quite good and the '05 is just about their best ever. It's a fine wine, dry and full-bodied and rich in black currants, smoky oak and spices. Drink now and for the next several years.
Watery and a little fizzy, with sugary flavors of oranges, lemons, limes and honey. Will appeal to those who like a slightly sweet wine.
Watery and sweet, like fruit juice, with orange, pineapple and buttered toast flavors.
Watery and sweet, with apricot and orange jam flavors.
Watery blackberry, mint and oak flavors mark this simple wine. It's soft and ripe on the finish.
Watery pineapple and peach flavors have a heavy jacket of oak-like smokiness. Acidity provides a clean mouthfeel.
Wattle Creek's best Triple Play ever. A blend of Syrah, Viognier and Petite Sirah from this cool appellation in Mendocino County, the wine is dry, medium- to full-bodied, tannic and complex, with flavors of blackberries, currants, tobacco, smoked meat, cedar and scads of black pepper. Drink now for its sheer power and joy.
Wattle Creek has done a good job with Cabernet over the years, and here's another one. I don't think '04 was their best vintage, as the wine is a little raisiny, despite an official alcohol of only 14.1%. But it shows a classy structure, polished dryness and a good depth of varietal black currant fruit, accented with new oak. Probably best now and for a few years.
Waves of berry aromas matched by oak-based vanilla and a hint of violet comprise the nose on this Malbec-led blend that smacks hard in the mouth with tannic bite and acidity. Flavors of wild berry, cherry and hard spices finish juicy and lively. Drink through 2018.
Waves of crunchy, ripe red cherries on the nose mellow into cinnamon-spiced fruitiness on the palate. This Zweigelt is sumptuously winter-spiced, with soft, ample-fruited generosity and smooth tannins, but it never loses its freshness.
Waves of French oak, coconut, espresso and menthol lead the nose. The dense, extracted palate offers raspberry jam, vanilla, toasted oak and kirsch alongside packed, fine-grained tannins. The warmth of alcohol and a leathery note signal the finish. Nebbiolo purists may find the new wood sensations excessive but if you're into concentrated, oak-driven wines, you'll especially enjoy this.
Waves of purple floral fragrance meld with soy, blackberry and roast lamb on the nose of this complex and compelling bottling. It's quite soft on the palate, with black plum and hoisin sauce flavors accenting its core of dried purple fruit, black pepper and bacon fat. The finish offers a touch of maple syrup.
Waves of rich bacon fat, maple, caramelized black cherries, campfire smoke and an elegant touch of lavender show on the nose of this bottling, which includes 14% Counoise. Similar smoke shows on the palate, but it's more tart and acidic than expected, with underripe blackberry and black plum skin flavors. The tannins are fine-grained but firm. Drink 2018 through 2023.
Wax bean and citrus notes meet dry, woody elements on the nose, but this wine does feature a plump, appealing texture and a soft, easy finish. Drink now.
Waxy and a touch volatile on the nose, this wine offers broad aromas of tropical fruit and barrel. The palate is lithe and medium bodied, bearing kiwi and papaya notes. It finishes with a minerally tang and vital acidity.
Waxy and aromatic in petrol, this stainless-steel-fermented white offers flavors of white flowers, green apple and lime around sizzling acidity. From the Main Ranch Vineyard, an estate property, it finishes high-pitched and lean, completely refreshing.
Waxy and burning on the nose, and then very heavy and sugary on the palate. The orange marmalade and honey flavors are over the top and sticky, while the wine leaves an unctuous, resinous finish. Too much of this 15% Moscatel could cause a headache.
Waxy and crisp, this white is a blend of 61% Roussanne and 39% Viognier, a marriage that complements in fresh, balanced creaminess amidst light layerings of pear and apricot fruit. Nicely sippable on its own, it's the right call for fruity salads or goat-cheese omelets dusted in herbes de Provence.
Waxy and exotic with lychee scents, this is a bone-dry, nutty and meaty version of the variety, which has been grown by this producer since the 1950s. It's refreshing and complex—a perfect companion for the table or picnic basket.
Waxy and floral on the nose with hints of zesty orange peel, this dry, full bodied white is richly concentrated with tangerine, lime and fresh apple flavors. It's bold at 13.6% abv, but maintains a crisp, citrus pith astringency and orange blossom elegance to the finish.
Waxy and lightly lemony, this is a well-made, small-production wine from well-farmed vineyards, a steely, medium-bodied study in tangerine and green apple. Balanced and ready for the table, it has enough weight to match well against a wide range of foods and impress as an apéritif.
Waxy apple and lemon pith open this wine, followed by crisp, candied grapefruit. Robust, it finishes dry and balanced. The whole sums up into a full-bodied, rich and lush experience.
Waxy apple and melon aromas are basic but fresh. A plump and melony mouthfeel offers enough acidity to lift up flavors of honeydew, papaya and green banana. A round, regular feeling finish is clean and cleansing.
Waxy apple and peach open this wine, before deeper hits of vanilla give it a complexity of flavor. Crisp, bright and refreshing, it offers a touch of brine and sour lemon on the finish.
Waxy apple and pear aromas come with butterscotch and dusty scents. The body on this barrel-fermented Viura rates as round and full, while flavors of apple, peach and spiced citrus finish yeasty, long and slightly oxidized.
Waxy apple aromas are chunky, dusty and a bit choppy. Ditto the palate, which is thick and on the full side, with moderate acidity. Apple, savory oak and spice flavors finish with a briny, saline note.
Waxy apple opens the nose before this tame stainless-steel aged white builds flavors of pear and vanilla extract amid a medium-bodied frame. More pear, with a wrapping of gingery spice, is featured on the finish.
Waxy apple stars in this brisk, approachable white from a single estate-farmed block, the oak briny and salty in toast and honey. Textured and elegantly light bodied, it finishes with a satisfying note of lemon candy.
Waxy aromas of baked apple and spices come in front of a full-bodied palate supported by citric acidity. Flavors of orange and nectarine are honeyed, while the finish starts out big then stumbles on the backside. Drink this Macabeo-led blend now.
Waxy aromas of dried stone fruits and potent oak open this classy barrel-fermented Viura. A refined palate with cutting acidity energizes woody pear and apple flavors. On the finish, resiny oak and a wave of oxidized Sherry notes are highly complex but maybe not for everyone.
Waxy aromas of lanolin, dried apple and cheese set up a plump well-balanced palate, with plenty of body weight and adequate acidity. Peach, apple and melon flavors are moderately stony and minerally, while this varietal Garnacha Blanca finishes with good length.
Waxy aromas of scented candles and canned pears define the nose. The palate is low on acid and thus tastes soft and remotely of Bartlett pear and peach. Light on the finish; thus it needs to be drunk now.
Waxy aromas suggest haystack and dusty apple. This is on the borderline of heavy and cloying in the mouth, while oak is the main driver of the flavor profile. On the finish, notes of melon and banana are covered by a resiny oak flavor.
Waxy but also plenty acidic, which creates some clash on the bouquet. Flavors of lemon, orange and peach meet a little bitterness on the finish, and overall this won't be confused for French Viognier. It's scattershot and unique, but it has finishing harmony and a pretty good texture.
Waxy cherry and pomegranate invite the senses before a taste of dried cranberry wafts in, layering itself on top of velvety, silky tannins. Juicy and well-composed, it hails from an appellation not known for the variety. In the hands of this producer, also a fine craftsman of Cabernet, this wine simply sings.
Waxy citrus peels and pressed apples waft on the nose of this Chardonnay. Flavors of apple and pear cider are a bit muted, but it's elegantly composed, marked by brisk acidity and a pleasantly bitter tone on the finish. Drink now through 2020.
Waxy citrus skins and pressed apple notes are accented by a whiff of pine in this racy light-footed Riesling. It's just a shade off dry, with an invigoratingly brisk texture. Drink now through 2019.
Waxy crayon, petrol and steely lemon aromas mark the closed bouquet. The palate shows some decent weight, yet disparate acids give a sharp feeling. Citrus races from start to finish, with a slight char marking the close.
Waxy floral and lemon skin notes are elegantly subdued on this concentrated semidry Riesling. Juicy on the palate with abundant peach preserve flavors, it finishes moderately long with on a slightly drying, tea inflected note.
Waxy floral aromas are pretty, but suggest a slightly plastic note on this light-footed Riesling. It's delicately sweet, boasting flavors of fresh yellow peach and pear accented by hints of bramble and earth. The finish is crisp and clean.
Waxy fruit flavors of peach, melon and banana, all a bit understated, lead through a light and pleasant quaffer with a hint of toast on the finish.
Waxy honeycomb accents fresh lemon, pear and white peach in this dry, lushly textured Chardonnay. It's creamy and voluminous in mouthfeel, yet balanced by bright acidity and a lingering oyster shell minerality lends elegance and style.
Waxy in mouthfeel and dark gold in color, this wine offers simple fresh lemon and green apple flavors, its finish expansive and full.
Waxy lanolin and lemon-skin notes scent this dry, intensely linear Riesling. The palate is stark, with lime and lemon flavors accented by a stony mineral tone that lingers on the finish.
Waxy lanolin and spice notes add complexity to tart stone-fruit aromas on this sprightly Riesling. Semidry in style, the palate drips with peach nectar flavor, balanced by bracing tangerine acidity. It finishes long, with a refreshing spray of herb notes.
Waxy lanolin, lime zest and savory nuts waft solemnly from this distinctly earthy dry Riesling. It's a showcase of minerality—shades of clay, dust, smoke and rock—but fascinatingly so, bolstered by a shock of lemon-lime acidity.
Waxy lemon-rind and orange blossom notes waft from the nose of this fresh, easy-drinking Riesling. Sumptuous grapefruit and tangerine flavors are cut by a rejuvenating bite of lime acidity on the finish. Drink now through 2019.
Waxy lemon and apple skin aromas meld with spring blossoms on this bright, citrusy Pinot Blanc sparkling. While it's aggressively foamy, sunny tangerine acidity shines on the palate. Finishes crisply on a zesty lemon note.
Waxy lemon and pear aromas are muddled by bee pollen aromas. The palate is light and watery, driven by a plastic citrus flavor.
Waxy lemon and the crisp bite of an apple open this wine that builds power as it goes, becoming a full-bodied expression of Russian River apple-kissed fruit. Toasty oak and silky tannins buoy the midpalate, ending with a lift of orange citrus.
Waxy lemon peel accents savory apple and quince notes in this dry, zesty Riesling. While expansive on the palate with bold, voluminous body, it finishes brisk and tart.
Waxy lemon peel aromas on the nose are amplified on the palate of this delicate auslese, exposing riper, sweeter shades of yellow peach and cherry. Nervy acidity jolts the midpalate, finishing brisk and clean. Drink now through 2020.
Waxy lemon rind and blossom notes accent this off-dry Riesling full of ripe, almost preserved peach flavor. Briskly textured and fresh in acidity, it's an uncomplicated, drinkable wine. Enjoy now through 2019.
Waxy lemon, green veg, honey and a bit of matchstick lead precede a chalky textured palate. Searing acidity keeps the body light in feel.
Waxy lightly toasted aromas of yellow apple are more subtle than popping. This barrel-fermented wine offers good weight and balance along with quiet flavors of spiced apple and vanilla. A sophisticated clean finish is lightly oaked in flavor and smooth in feel.
Waxy lime and lemon peels perfume this fresh, floral Riesling. It's invigoratingly crisp, boasting tart green-melon and tangerine flavors and racy hits of lime and lemon acidity. An elegant wine for a very approachable price.
Waxy minerals mingle with deep, concentrated tones of orange and tangerine in this lusciously sweet Riesling. Vibrant and complex, it's marked by tart tangerine acidity that sears through the midpalate. Swathes of saffron and exotic spice soften a long, lingering finish. While delicious already, its minerality and composure should only improve from 2020-2025.
Waxy notes of white flower and orange peel persist on the nose and palate of this bold, invigorating wine. Dry and full bodied, it's structured and concentrated, but it finishes crisply with hints of tart tangerine and hazelnut skin.
Waxy on the nose, with buttercup, creamy yellow-fruit scents and white flowers. The palate is wet, racy and a touch like soda, with sweet, candied flavors of peach and melon. Plods along with good enough acidity to support the wine's core sweetness and candied qualities.
Waxy papaya and melon aromas maintain freshness despite this getting on in age. A lean, snappy palate is par for the variety and origin, while tangy tangerine and lemon flavors finish sharp and whispy. Drink now.
Waxy peach-, pineapple- and pear-scented, this fulsome and fresh white offers lively acidity within a complex, medium-bodied framework. From estate-grown fruit, it's a rarity from the appellation and well worth seeking out.
Waxy peach and apple aromas come with a leesy cookie-like component. This is 50% each Sauvignon Blanc and Garnacha Blanca, and it feels both plump and watery. Flavors of quince and apple are diluted and distant, while the finish is mild.
Waxy peach and baked apple aromas are a touch dusty as well. This barrelfermented Viura feels round and peachy, while flavors of buttered toast, white pepper and bitter melon finish with fortitude. This is an interesting take on Viura that should age and improve through 2024.
Waxy peach aromas seem slightly oxidized. It's round and citrusy on the palate, but in a monotone way that fades to pithy white fruits and mealy citrus. Shows some flashes of uniqueness and class; mostly it's wayward and slightly bitter.
Waxy pear and apple aromas lead to a lean, acidic palate. This Garnacha Blanca from the highest vineyards in Somontano tastes of briny citrus and tart apple. A slightly green finish with pickled notes closes it out.
Waxy pear and white plum provide the fruit-forward flavors of this wine, which exhibits plenty of minerality on the midpalate before offering a wave of richness and vanilla cream. The finish finds a focus and balance between these two ends, ending light and bright.
Waxy pear flavors ride a lush texture of supportive acidity in this rare white from dry-farmed vines planted more than four decades ago. Food-friendly and light on its feet, it's the perfect picnic wine, ready for charcuterie and cheese.
Waxy plum and a surprising characteristic of watermelon provide a subtle freshness to this otherwise hugely tannic, concentrated wine. Tar and yeast play a role as well.
Waxy plum is given ample richness from a taste of milk chocolate in this luxuriously full-bodied voluptuous wine. Big lush tannins are met by a smoky backdrop of robust oak and a spicy hit of clove on the finish.
Waxy plum, cherry and a thread of oak accent a full-bodied warmth of soft tannin in this lovely wine, which also unfurls savory elements of cedar and graphite. Succulent, it shows the remarkable acidity for which the site is known.
Waxy slightly bitter aromas of peach pit give way to a palate with grip. This tastes salty and like white melon, while on the finish what fruit there is fades out quickly. Hailing from Chile's deep south, this is complex and challenging more than ripe.
Waxy smelling and gritty, with an oily overtone, this feels O.K. but sort of wayward, with flavors of bitter grapefruit and matchstick. Simple and somewhat sour on the finish.
Waxy stone-fruit aromas come with a shot of butterscotch but also a whiff of chemical cleanser. In the mouth, this blend of Viura and Malvasia is full-bodied and braced by sharp acidity. Flavors of walnut, baked peach and citrus peel finish with nutty notes and angular acidity. At six years of age, this is showing some gaps in its fiber.
Waxy to the max, with baked apple, dry spice and plenty of oak on the bouquet. Thick and mouthfilling in terms of texture, with creamy melon and sweet apple flavors. Turns pithy, stalky and bitter on the finish.
Waxy white-fruit aromas are a touch austere and harsh. This holds a tight, crisp palate with flavors of yeast, apple and citrus fruits. A short, clean finish ensures that this closes with ease and clarity.
Waxy white floral aromas add a hint of richness to squeaky-fresh lemon and lime tones in this dry, rather tonic wine. Refreshingly mineral and moderate in alcohol, it's a brisk white to pair with rich, creamy pasta or a cheese plate.
Waxy white floral notes accent fresh apple and pear aromas on this dry, medium-bodied wine. The palate is crisp with a refreshingly alpine coolness. Lime acidity pierces the finish.
Waxy white florals and lifted apple aromas add freshness to slightly cider-like flavors of pressed apple and mulling spice in this dry Riesling. Delicately light bodied it has a brisk, refreshing finish.
Waxy white flowers and peaches scent this ripe, penetrating Riesling full of sweet tangerine and stone-fruit flavors. Fresh lime and mineral tones accent the palate, leading a long, lingering finish. It's effortlessly quaffable yet elegant and complex.
Waxy white fruit aromas of peach and apple are a touch baked, with vanilla peeking through. The palate is smooth and offers good mouthfeel, while the flavors of lemon, apple and hay are good and finish buttery and creamy. Made by Finca Allende; 70% Viura and 30% Malvasia.
Waxy, cheesy, resiny aromas rest heavily atop baked apple and vanilla scents. This is round and easy, maybe even soft, with flavors of toasty oak, vanilla extract, mixed nuts and wood grain. As a whole, the wine is very much oak-driven.
Waxy, dusty apple and oak aromas reflect the 30% Sémillon, but this is mostly Chardonnay in quantity, style, feel and flavors. Salty melon, tropical notes and nicely laid-out oak flavors turn a touch bitter on a weighty but healthy finish. Drink this classy white blend through 2018.
Waxy, dusty aromas of stone fruits and honey are typical of Garnatxa Blanca, although this contains 30% Viognier as well. A citrusy, direct palate with cutting acidity sets up lemon, tangerine and green-apple flavors. Only on the finish does this taste mildly yeasty and slightly buttery.
Waxy, floral white-fruit aromas are tropical in style. This feels citrusy, with some pulpiness to the texture. Tangerine, orange and nectarine flavors finish tangy and citric, with one-dimensional juiciness.
Waxy, honeyed aromas of melon and white flowers lead to a plump, leesy, creamy but balanced palate full of bready notes, stone-fruit flavors and vanilla. Another wave of leesy vanilla, melon, tropical fruit and cream takes over the finish. This contains Viognier, Garnacha Blanca and Chenin Blanc, a small portion of which was barrel fermented.
Waxy, minerally aromas include whiffs of butterscotch, peach pit and dusty apple. This is big and heavy on the palate, with just enough malic acid to keep it upright. Briny flavors of mustard and pickle finish with weight and the variety's patented lanolin character.
Waxy, oxidized aromas suggest Sherry and late-harvest wines. A peachy, fully mature palate offers apricot and papaya flavors in front of a salty, dry finish with fino Sherry notes.
Waxy, peachy aromas are less than fresh, and the palate follows that lead via soft, pithy flavors of orange and melon. Shows little grip or structure for Godello and the finish fails to bring it home with kick or pop. Already past its prime. Tasted twice.
Waxy, round aromas are soft and properly indicate that this wine is already turning south. The palate lacks that certain Sauvignon Blanc edge but it does offer true flavors of melon, mango and orange. Full but fleshy.
Waxy, slightly mealy white-fruit aromas set up a pulpy citrusy palate. This offers salty orange and yeasty flavors in front of a finish that's struggling to stay fresh. Drink immediately.
Waxy, stalky aromas lack freshness. This is chunky and citrusy on the palate, with wheaty flavors and a note of stale orange juice. A juicy-feeling finish doesn't much improve the impression.
Waxy, stalky aromas provide little to no varietal familiarity. This is acid-driven, with lemon and underripe pineapple flavors along with wheaty, stalky aftershocks. The fresh and tangy feel turns bitter on the finish.
Waxy, weird aromas of lemon and ham are all over the map. This feels heavy, with a sense of sugary weight. Chunky flavors of cured pork and creamy melon finish plump but amorphous.
Waxy, yeasty aromas are not very fresh. A citric mouthfeel lacks clarity and foundation, while orange and nectarine flavors are briny. This tastes pickled on the finish.
Way too charred and roasted. The mouthfeel is acceptable and ranks as the best part of the wine. The rest is just a burnt, charred, overoaked mess with flavors of earthy berry, leather, peanut and resin. A poor effort that makes you wonder what the winery was thinking.
Way too high in alcohol, giving it the ripe, hot, raisiny taste of a simple Port.
Way too much banana, mango and sugar. Not a prime-time player.
Way too much oak on this wine, which is dominated by buttered toast and butterscotch aromas and flavors. Underneath all that you'll find pineapples and guavas.
Way too oaky, with buttered toast, honey and caramel flavors dominating. The underlying wine, which is crisp in acidity and suggests limes, peaches and apricots, just isn't strong enough to handle all that oak.
Way too oaky, with caramel, buttered toast and smoky vanilla flavors dominating the fruit beneath. There's a sound, crisp, citrusy wine down there, but the winemaker needs to let it, not the oak, star.
Way too oaky. Compromised by the clumsy, heavy application of wood. The caramel and roasted butterscotch aromas and flavors completely swamp whatever wine lies beneath.
Way too oaky. Like drinking toothpicks, with its charred, wood flavors and oak tannins. The wine is dry and the underlying blackberry and cherry sour candy fruit is just fine, but the oak dominance makes you wonder if the wine will ever age.
Way too ripe, with high, hot alcohol framing black cherry jam flavors. The finish is nice and dry, but the wine lacks balance and subtlety.
Way too ripe, with raisined flavors, including raisin-skin bitterness and alcholic heat on the finish. The dominant variety is Sangiovese.
Way too ripe, with raisiny, porty aromas and flavors that turn bitter on the finish.
Way too ripe, with the flavors veering into raisins. The alcohol, which is 15.6% abv, really sticks out.
Way too sweet and soft to qualify as a dry table wine. Okay for big parties where everyone's drinking happily from paper cups.
Way too sweet for a table wine that's supposed to be dry. Almost like a dessert wine, with sugary cherry and raspberry flavors.
Way too sweet in ripe, jammy cherry-berry fruit and caramelized oak, resulting in a Cabernet that tastes like the wine equivalent of a granola candy bar. Fans of this sweet style will like it.
Way too tannic to earn a higher score, although the dryness is welcome, and the blackberry and black cherry flavors are complex, augmented with floral, licorice notes. The tannins hit the mouth hard, and are unlikely to age out.
Wayward and slightly weedy on the nose, with candied fruit notes that help it along. The palate is more acidic and rhubarby than ideal, although the tartness is offset by a creamy flavor of carob bean. Short and hot on the finish; acceptable but not well executed.
Wayward aromas of tropical fruits and diesel fumes are warm and mild. The palate is plump and slightly citrusy, while flavors of white grapefruit, orange and pineapple end with pithy bitterness. On the finish, this is citrusy in flavor and pulpy in texture.
Wayward, funky aromas of wet dog and candied fruits don't provide much elegance to the bouquet. This also feels somewhat bland and dilute, which is unusual for Argentina. Herbal, minty flavors of cherry and plum finish peppery, green and raw in feel.
We've noticed traces of volatility in past Sesti Brunellos, but the 2004 vintage smells polished and pristine. Aromas of black fruit, spice and cured meat are intact, generous and are delivered with uplifting force and buoyancy. This helps contribute to the general intensity of the wine and the supple nature of its mouthfeel.
We all wonder if those cult Cabs will age, but there's no doubt that this is a cellar guarantee. Cathy Corison makes her Cabs less ripe than many others, so the alcohol is lower and the acids and tannins are harder and drier. That's in youth. But such is the depth of cherry, blackberry, cassis, cedar and mineral flavors and overall balance that this complex young wine should easily negotiate the next 15 years.
We are big fans of Mauro Sebaste but found this vintage of his base Barolo to be slightly less charged and intense than previous years. You'll get characteristic aromas of wild fruit, cola and spice and the mouthfeel is drying, polished and long-lasting. Give this wine another five to 10 years of cellar aging.
We can debate the pricing on Yao Ming's new reserve, but what's undeniable, by any modern standard, is the wine's excellence. A blend of fruit from Atlas Peak and Rutherford, the wine is a barrel selection from the winery's regular 2010 output, and accounts for only about 20% of total production. The Cabernet Sauvignon is mixed with a little Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It's delicious in blackberry, cassis liqueur, dark chocolate and oak flavors, and well structured in acids and tannins. The wine should develop in the bottle for at least 10 years.
We can now enjoy a lively little group of Sicilian producers who also make metodo classico sparkling wine. This expression from the Carricante grape shows dry fruit and mineral notes with background tones of fresh baked bread and dried hay.
We can quibble over whether the cherries are red or black, or if it's persimmons or pomegranates, or if the mushrooms are fresh or sautéed, but that's the point. This wine is so complex, it initiates discussion. Fine acidity and rich tannins provide structure, and although the wine is silky enough to enjoy now, you really want to give it 6–8 years.
We didn't go crazy over the 2005 and the '06 Sentido is also challenged. It's soft, raisiny and borderline overripe. The flavors are roasted and short, with low acidity, soft tannins and plenty of toast and coffee on the black finish. More baked than vivacious, with some excess weight.
We haven't seen anything labeled Trio for years, but the return of this Concha y Toro brand seems solid. Aromas of orange blossom, lime and other green fruits are good, while flavors of citrus, grapefruit and cucumber are fresh and appealing. A good but standard wine that is lifted by a touch of green herb and brine.
We haven't seen much improvement in this wine since the 2003 vintage. It's still lacking forward, ripe fruit and instead shows more leather and drying, firm tannins. Shows glimpses of higher quality but can't support them.
We love fresh, zesty Italian whites because they pair so well with the healthy, international cuisine offered on our menus. This expression is especially delicious with tonic aromas of chopped sage and stone fruit that build in momentum.
We need wines like this that are super-dry, ultra-crisp in acidity and sleakly lean. This one's the anti-Chardonnay. It's tightly wound in minerals and citrus fruits, a Sancerre-style wine born to drink with food. Crab salad in lettuce wraps or chicken satay skewers come to mind.
We suggest very little time with this bulky, medicinal Tempranillo. Despite color and weight, it's prickly, sour and not too ripe. The flavors and finish are short, while the overriding impression is that it's underdeveloped.
We were very impressed with this wine: its luminous color, luscious mouthfeel and intense aromas create an irresistible package. Penetrating flavors of forest berry, vanilla, violets and licorice suggest a pairing with roast quail or duck. The wine ends with food-friendly acidity and firm tannins.
We won't call this the best Terrunyo SB to date, but it is typically clean, mineral and full of lime and passion fruit. The overall balance and purity are up the ladder, while the flavors of green fruits, passion fruit, brine and lime don't hold back. Top notch SB from Chile to drink now.
Weak aromas of peach pit and tropical fruit are none too exciting, while the palate is dilute and carries flavors of orange and lime. Too narrow to warrant a recommendation, with barely any concentration.
Wearing a heavy mantle of rather green, not-too-subtle oak, the fruit in this wine struggles to be noticed. Faintly apple, with earthy notes, it is fairly buried, and the wine lacks the life and dimension on the palate one seeks in a wine with reserve status.
Wedge Mountain makes a Riesling that is as bone dry as any Riesling can possibly be. It's consistent, and styled for slurping with fresh oysters more than anything. Mouth-puckering acidity, lean citrus fruits and a lingering sense of sucking on a ripe lemon.
Weedy and herbal, this Merlot-based blend is thick and rich in black cherry and medium oak, with an abbreviated finish.
Weedy and vegetal despite some decent raspberry, cherry and spice flavors. Okay for a big party where nobody's fussy.
Weedy on the nose in a combination of dried herb and celery, this wine settles down nicely to offer a juiciness of red currant, cherry and cassis, with a stroke of caramel and toasty oak on the light finish.
Weedy underbrush and scorched soil aromas lead the way along with a smoked note. The bitter palate offers a green note of powdered sage and hazelnut but it lacks fruit. Clenching tannins grip the finish.
Weedy underbrush, leather, mature berry and a whiff of cellar floor open. The full-bodied but somewhat evolved palate shows toast, mocha, grilled mushroom and dried black cherry alongside tightly knit tannins. Give the tannins a few years to unwind but then drink sooner rather than later to catch what fruit richness remains.
Weedy underbrush, porcini mushroom, stewed plum, violet and leather aromas come together on this. The forward, approachable palate offers juicy black cherry, crushed strawberry, baking spice, orange zest and a hazelnut note framed in polished tannins.
Weedy underbrush, salted game, exotic spice and cellar floor aromas are front and center. On the dense palate, oak-driven spice underscores baked plum while tightly-wound, grainy tannins provide assertive support. It's still extremely tannic but drink sooner rather than later to catch the remaining fruit.
Weedy, herbal and strong-willed, this is a warm concentrated wine that's softly textured and moderate in structure. Extracted flavors of red cherry and vanilla accentuate the wine's succulent nature.
Weight and a mealy character combine with bath soap aromas on the nose. This is pulpy in feel, with flavors of generic citrus and lychee. The finish is fresh at first and then turns hollow.
Weight and a rich character bring out caramel and apricot fruits as well as a crisp citrus core. It's warm, round and ripe, and still fresh while full in the mouth. Age this very drinkable wine until 2015.
Weight and dense tannins go with the firm black fruits and acidity, producing a wine that is spicy, fruity and likely to age quickly. Drink from 2015.
Weight and richness here, with attractive acidity, but also a ripe, creamy texture. The wine has some tight tannins, but is much more to do with opulent peaches and cream.
Weighted in tannins and oak, this wine is also perfumed in ripe berry and chocolate, along with dried herb. Bittersweet tobacco marks the finish, complemented in vanilla.
Weighty and creamy in rich tones of just-picked pineapple and Key lime, this is round and expansive on the palate, with undertones of earth and herb. Complex layers of apple and almond interplay, before a finish of honey and spice lingers.
Weighty and dry, Albariño is a rare sight in Sonoma. This one is well worth seeking, savory in nutty almond and a taste of grilled peach. Mouth quenching, it'll pair well with spicy Thai shrimp.
Weighty but polished, this wine is full bodied, moderately flavorful and very smooth in texture. It has mild pear, butter and vanilla accents, subtle acidity and a plush mouthfeel.
Weighty in cinnamon, this wine is soft and entirely spicy throughout, medium in weight and slightly complex. Blackberry and black cherry play off the firm tannins and structured oak, providing girth but not overindulgence.
Weighty yes, and with a full-on richness, but also touched with a surprising amount of minerality. The flavors range from the almost tropical to apple-fresh acidity. It's full, but certainly balanced by its acidity.
Weighty, warm and welcoming, this is an easy-to-like wine with surprisingly delicate aromas of citrus blossom, tangerine and pineapple. Citrus and honey flavors form the bulk of the rich palate, lingering on the finish.
Weil's Estate Dry Riesling is lighter in weight than one might expect, with hints of pineapple and passion fruit on the nose and tightly focused apple and citrus notes on the palate. Crisp lemon and green apple emerge on the finish.
Weil's standard-label Spätlese shares the same core of minerality that its single-vineyard siblings boast, but in a slightly earthier, more rustic style marked by heady whiffs of pollen, saffron and spice. It's a thirst quencher, light-footed and sheer on the palate, finishing with an exhilarating array grapefruit, lime and tangerine flavors.
Weinbau, Stone Tree and Dionysus vineyards make up the backbone of this wine. Aromas of dry chocolate, dark plum and sage lead to a densely flavored, hedonistic palate, with full-bodied plum and chocolate flavors that linger.
Weinert has always pushed the more traditional, less extracted style. And this Bordeaux blend shows a nose of light spice, cinnamon, wet clay and subdued berry fruit. The palate is earthy, with hints of tomato, herbs, raspberry and cocoa. It's a drying wine, with grabby tannins, but it should age well for another few years. Drink now or hold through 2011.
Weinert holds its wines back longer than almost any other Argentine winery, hence when you get a blend like this it's mature and ready. This is maderized, with aromas of earth, citrus, tobacco and mushroom. The palate is tight and houses tobacco, mocha, citrus and dried raspberry flavors. If you like aged Rioja, this is for you. The blend is Malbec, Cabernet and Merlot.
Weir has never been my favorite Williams Selyem Pinot, although it has its fans. The ‘05, as with previous vintages, is dry and tannic, showing a toughness that's almost rustic. The flavors are of cherries, cassis, cola, balsamic-splashed sautéed wild mushrooms and dusty spices. Could do interesting things over the years.
Weird name, simple wine, but not a bad one. It's awfully hard to get distinction in Pinot Noir at this price. The wine is dry, and there are some berry flavors wrapped in silky tannins.
Weirdly acidic and sweet, with cloying raspberry Lifesaver candy flavors.
Weissburgunder, or Pinot Blanc, can be a rather subdued grape. But it's delightfully bright and zippy here, boasting sunny shades of apricot, grapefruit and tangerine offset against dazzling lemon-lime acidity. It's brisk and cutting on the palate yet finishes with persistence.
Welcome back to the classic off-dry Sherry that helped make the category's reputation. It's amber in color, with toasted almonds, citrus peel and cinnamon on the nose. The mouthfeel is solid and not too overtly sweet, and the finish is coated with burnt brown sugar. Best served on the rocks, or at least with a very good chill.
Welcoming and easy to drink, this full-bodied wine has mellow, ripe fruit flavors, light oaky accents and a warm sense of ripeness that doesn't go over the top. Subtle tannins support the texture while keeping it smooth. The blend includes Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah.
Welcoming aromas of wood spice, plum and blackberry become more smoky with airing. This strong-boned RDD is pure and deep, with manageable tannins. Generous flavors of spiced blackberry, tobacco and vanilla finish long, elegant and with a lot in reserve. Drink from 2017 through 2030.
Welcoming bubblegum, key lime, grass and cement aromas check many Sauvignon Blanc boxes in this widely available and reliable bottling. The palate leads with decent structure, but then ripeness prevails, with peach and more bubblegum notes.
Welcoming but basic cassis and berry aromas carrry a leathery accent and a hint of rubber. The palate is mildly creamy and comfortable, with cassis, cherry and plum flavors but little beyond that. A clean finish cements this well-made wine's value position.
Welcoming but brisk peach aromas meet with some lemon peel sharpness on the nose of this blend of grapes from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco. It's quite juicy on the palate, with apple blossoms, nectarines and pungently fragrant white flowers. Good acidity that keeps the mouth singing for a while.
Welcoming jammy fruit aromas are clean and robust, while the palate on this value-priced bottling is creamy, balanced and generous. The flavors are naturally a bit herbal, but there's so much beefy blackberry and dark plum fruit that the package is downright commendable. For everyday Carmenère, this is where to look.
Welcoming on the nose, this top-end bottling offers aromas of baked red cherry, clove and black plum before diving into crushed graphite, wet slate and loamy mud aromas. Soft on the palate but immediately vibrant with acidity, flavors of dark cranberry and tart cherry are lifted by anise-like spice.
Well-aged and drinking at a peak, this 100% Sangiovese is round and toasty, filled with plush cherry fruit, and just a smidgen of green olive. The barrel aging brings in accents of toasted walnuts through a full, inviting finish.
Well-aged and elegant, this proud Taurasi shows a very deep and sophisticated side. Aromas include cured meat, licorice, rum cake, dried herbs, cola and root beer. The freshness of the fruit is fading but the tannins are still firm, giving the wine a few more years of longevity.
Well-aged, light gold, and bottled in a Burgundy bottle for reasons unknown, this off dry high-acid effort should be consumed within the next year or two. The apple fruit has moved into secondary (baked) flavors, with a tart kick to the finish suggesting that the acids may soon outstrip the fruit.
Well-balanced wine, ripe fruit, touches of wood, light spice, ginger and sweet apples. Structured, held well together by wood.
Well-balanced, ripe and toasty, it has all the elements in the right place. It's rich, packed with spice, apricot and red apple fruits given a creamy texture by the wood aging. The wine could benefit by waiting until 2015, although it's delicious now.
Well-balanced, this is a wine that already shows the considerable improvements made at Brown under the Mau family ownership. There is a delicious lightness of touch, with black currant fruit flavors shot through with fresh acidity.
Well-balanced, this medium- to full-bodied Zin offers spice and berry aromas and plummy flavors. The noticeable, firm tannins are a good thing in Zinfandel, which can sometimes be too soft.
Well-concentrated black-cherry flavors give a great core of fruit to this well-balanced, full-bodied and lightly tannic wine. It has more grip and less obvious oak than many others.
Well-crafted and fruity, this has a fresh character that allows room for red berry flavors. It's a ripe wine, keeping freshness while bringing in a warmer, caramel character.
Well-defined, crisp and lightly peppery, this estate-grown Pinot Gris carries no hint of oak aging. Tart apple and pear fruit have just the right bite to sail into a sharp and satisfying finish.
Well-drained gravel soil gives this wine its crisp and dry character. It is ripe and fruity, although the spice is subdued in favor of a more serious structure. This is a wine to age for a couple of years, so drink from 2017.
Well-executed and very intense, this dense Sicilian Cabernet imparts a few green notes of dried herbs, bell pepper and coffee bean. Here, the rosemary and wild sage nuances are very attractive and the wine sits confidently in the mouth thanks to its firm tannins and solid structure.
Well-integrated aromas of dried mint and black cherry meet with baking spice, cappuccino and dried-beef notes on the nose of this bottling. Dried cherry, smoked beef, bittersweet chocolate and coffee flavors show on the sip, where a solid tannic structure and good density ensures a long life for this wine.
Well-integrated aromas of hibiscus, red plum, dark berry and purple flowers make for a very clean nose on this bottling from an increasingly popular vineyard toward the western edge of the appellation along Highway 101. The palate packs a very loamy, wet soil minerality with boysenberry, lavender and white-pepper flavors.
Well-integrated blueberry and purple flower aromas make for a casual rather than bombastic nose in this blend of 32% Syrah, 28% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre and 15% Petite Sirah. Roasted meat, charred blackberry and dried fennel notes show on the palate, feeling very balanced and acid-even.
Well-integrated minerality and a combination of exotic fig and guava make this an inviting wine, supported by floral wafts of orange blossom. Finely made from a stellar vineyard site in Carneros, it has creamy lemon and tangerine layered throughout, finished by a spicy, herbal accent.
Well-integrated oak, deliciously ripe fruit flavors and an absolutely luscious texture make a great combination for this very full-bodied wine. The entry is smooth and light, then the flavors of ripe plum and boysenberry build on the palate, very mouth filling and rich, before lingering on a long finish.
Well-known winemaker Ben Riggs deserves credit for this wine, which balances sugar and acid so deftly that it's hard to tell if this is off-dry or just genuinely fruit-ripe. It's a fuller style than many Australian Rieslings, but pulls it off, packing in lemon-lime and honey notes. The finish is long and textured, just to the point of balanced bitterness. Ready to drink.
Well-made and creatively blended from Zinfandel, Syrah and Petite Sirah, this is a big, tannic wine, formidable in sweet blackberry, cherry, licorice and spice flavors. It's not subtle, but it is authentic. Drink now.
Well-made and dancing in acidity, this Cabernet is juicy in notes of red currant and pomegranate, yet slightly exotic on the back palate, with hints of cardamom and cinnamon. Layered without being overly concentrated, the wine is built to age like its bigger brother (the Family Reserve), able to hold on and build nuance through 2020.
Well-made in an opulent, hearty style, this vineyard-designated Chardonnay is barrel-rich and full-bodied. Floral on the nose, and tasting of oak, crème brûlée and vanilla extract on the palate.
Well-made, well-balanced and medium-bodied, this combines moderate blackberry and black cherry flavors with subtle spicy notes. The texture is tannic enough to be great with food, but smooth enough to enjoy sipping.
Well-made, with clean, bright fruit and lots of pretty new oak. The wine is beautifully balanced, elegant with a long, rich, toasty finish. Fairly light fruit in this vintage, but well handled and perfectly showcased.
Well-modulated fruit and spice flavors rest on a moderately tannic and velvety texture, giving this dry wine a suave feel despite being full bodied. Blended with Petit Verdot, Malbec and Petite Sarah, it's also one of the best values in a big, beefy Cabernet.
Well-polished and well-structured, this deep-colored, full-bodied wine blends ripe blackberry and black cherry notes with sophisticated oak nuances reminiscent of cardamom, cinnamon and wood smoke. The texture is firmly tannic and nicely supports the unusually generous fruit flavors.
Well-priced from estate-grown vineyards, Shannon Ridge's Chardonnay is smooth in lemon, ripe apple and pear, and easygoing and clean with a finish of pineapple and vanilla oak. A great go-to wine for white wine lovers.
Well-ripened fruit flavors and full body define this big, smooth wine that was aged in French oak for 18 months—longer than is usual for Pinot Noir. It shows black cherry, blackberry and mild spices on the palate, with an appropriately tannic mouthfeel and warm, lingering finish.
Well-rounded and integrated strawberry, black plum and licorice aromas show on the nose of this appellation blend from Paso Robles' most exciting Italian variety producer. It's light and easy on the palate, with red plum, cranberry and chaparral herb flavors packed tightly with tannin. It's good now but will improve with age.
Well-rounded pear and apple aromas get a fresh squeeze of lemon in this good-deal Sauv Blanc. It's easy to drink, with apple popover flavors (whose toasty elements come from the 20% barrel fermentation) and a brisk acidity.
Well-rounded, this offers aromas of fresh-cut grass and citrus fruit, citrusy flavors, good acidity, a smooth texture and soft finish. Very refreshing, it will be a good match with seafood, goat cheese or grilled chicken.
Well-structured and dry, but lacking in fruity richness, with a note of asparagus. That disrupts the cherries and oak of this blend of all five Bordeaux varieties.
Well along the aging curve, this feels a bit pushed, with divergent and strong flavors of cherry, plum, licorice, smoke and sweet toast. There's a lot going on, though little sense of the elegance that often typifies Pinot Noir, and the tannins have a rough, rustic quality.
Well balanced and 100% varietal, this is a mix of berry, plum and cassis flavors that are annotated with notes of licorice, tar and coffee. Moderate in length and clean, this has polished tannins to keep it all in balance.
Well balanced and high-toned, this lovely white impresses in spritzy acidity and teases of lemon peel and grapefruit. The back of the palate develops more complex elements of hazelnut and vanilla that add texture and complexity to the fruit.
Well balanced and measured in terms of its aromatic intensity, this is a clean, straight-shooting Rosso di Montalcino that will pair with everything from lasagna to hamburgers. The wine shows more determination in the mouth thanks to its thick, supple texture.
Well balanced and moderately flavorful, this wine feels quenching and appetizing at the same time but needs time to round off its rough edges. It's not overwhelmingly fruity or oaky, but has compact, concentrated red cherry and rhubarb and a good firm grip of tannin and fruit acidity. It will be best after 2019.
Well balanced and well priced, this beautifully balanced Brunello by vintner Riccardo Campinoti offers tones of cherry, forest bush, cola, exotic spice and black licorice. It has a naturally meaty or succulent nature, yet it also speaks of Montalcino tradition. Drink after 2013 to allow the tannins to soften and the oak notes to fully integrate.
Well balanced between fruitiness and spice, this is a young, crisp wine. Its apricot and pear flavors are lighted by fragrant acidity and considerable freshness for a Pinot Gris. It is ready to drink, but will be better in 1–2 years.
Well balanced wine, the entry level of the Conceito range. It has lively acidity and red cherry and strawberry fruits packed with underlying tannins. It is a fresh wine, showing the lighter side of the Douro, while retaining great minerality.
Well balanced, bringing together its firm, youthful tannins with ripe jammy fruits and  great swathes of spice and chocolate. It needs aging, but it is an impressive wine.
Well balanced, lively and delicious, this medium-bodied wine pulls together spicy oak and raspberry aromas, compelling and bright fruit flavors and a lip-smacking texture due to fine-grained tannins and good acidity.
Well balanced, ripe and fresh, it reveals raspberry fruits, an attractive mineral texture and citrus acidity. The style, definitely dry, needs food.
Well balanced, this red fruited-wine is also fully structured with a mineral background. With a dosage that brings out the texture as well as the fruit, this is a great apéritif-style of wine. Drink now.
Well balanced, this wine has acidity and a crisp character complemented by spice and a ripe, round texture. It's ready to drink, fresh as well as peppery.
Well built, this feels firm and structured and tastes alive and fruity. Aromas suggest blackberry and dark plum, and it tastes of those fruit too, with a velvety texture. It's medium-bodied, balanced by firm tannins and good acidity, and well-rounded in flavor.
Well composed with a steely palate of green apple and lemon complemented by apple blossom aromas, this is a medium-bodied white that's easygoing and not overly complex.
Well defined citrus and apple flavors abound, along with touches of yellow and green fruit. There's a hint of unripe papaya also, and if the wine spent any time in new oak, it's not evident.
Well differentiated from the winery's Pinot Blanc, this round and fleshy wine offers freshly cut pear fruit with a burst of orange juice and peel. It's bright, lively, spicy and a great all-purpose white wine when you need a break from Chardonnay.
Well done Shiraz, carefully made and judiciously oaked, with vanilla and cedar accenting blackberry, plum and black olive flavors. It's moderately tannic on the finish, where it adds some coffee-like nuances as well. Drink 2010–2018.
Well etched, defined and crisp, this is a strong, determined wine with loads of power, acidity and firmness. The wine shows all the criteria for a long cellar life, softening slowly as the wine evolves. Age 10–20 more years.
Well integrated charred oak melds well with ripe blackberry and black plum aromas in this blend of Merlot from a cooperative of Long Island winemakers. This is a full-bodied wine with an intensely concentrated black fruit character, a kick of earthy, barnyard funk and firm, structured tannins.
Well integrated in terms of barrel use (listed as 60% used French oak and 40% new), this features a robust exuberance of fruit, from Asian pear to Meyer lemon. Spicy with a touch of nutmeg and ginger, it hones a fine line of minerality throughout.
Well made and balanced, this wine is full of red-currant and berry fruits plus layers of tannins. Structured and with a smoky character, it is fresh, fruity and will develop quickly. Drink from 2017.
Well made and muscular, this compact effort brings black fruit, black olive, black licorice and espresso flavors together in a balanced and strikingly complex Syrah. The blend includes small amounts of Cabernet, Lemberger, Sangiovese and Merlot—unusual, but it works.
Well made in a light, easy style, this wine has classic aromas like dried cherry and cinnamon, and dry, appetizing flavors like sour cherry and rhubarb. It will make a great house wine at this reasonable price.
Well made in a lighter style, this offers strawberry and raspberry fruit, tart acids, and a tight, somewhat tannic exit. This winery has dramatically reduced the alcohol levels of their wines over the past few years—by what means we do not know—but the 13.1% listed here feels a little thin.
Well made in large quantity, this wine offers fleshy tropical papaya around a structure of toasty oak and vanilla. Medium in body and length, it's balanced with a crisp finish.
Well made, complex and complete, this offers a tantalizing whiff of lightly toasted oak that mingles with cinnamon and berry aromas, all carrying through to the palate. It's nicely balanced between assertive flavors, fresh acidity and full body. Nuances of rosemary, plum and cherry linger on the finish.
Well made, well balanced and rich in flavor, this medium-bodied wine has fruit flavors that are almost sweet but countered by crisp acidity. It tastes spicy like vanilla and nutmeg on the finish.
Well made, well rounded and well balanced, this medium-bodied wine has tasty fruit aromas and flavors. Spicy accents accompany a firm, layered texture and lasting finish.
Well oaked and smoky, with aromas of coffee, mocha, black olive and roasted fruits. The palate is lively and ripe, with pointed tannins and red-fruit flavors with black edges and olive. A compact, solid mix of Cabernet, Carmenère and Syrah.
Well oaked, showing plenty of espresso-like char and brown sugar on the nose, this is a full-bodied, creamy-textured Cabernet. Mocha and caramel flavors continue the theme, backed by just enough cassis fruit. Drink now–2025.
Well on the dry side of brut, this wine pushes acidity and the freshest citrus along with an apple-skin texture. It shows some bottle age toastiness, while offering a delicious bright finish.
Well on the way to sweet, this soft, spicy wine has light acidity and a gentle feel, with just a tangy, mineral edge to suggest some potential. Drink now.
Well priced and friendly, this Muskat has the honeyed, floral character of a traditional muscat, but also a lemony wave that overrides the rest. The citrus mutes the prettier character here, but overall, it's a good, exotic sip at a great price.
Well priced for the quality, Chapel Hill's Shiraz-Grenache is barely a blend, with only 10% Grenache. It comes across as a nicely complex, easy-drinking Shiraz, marrying mulberry fruit with hints of chocolate, cracked pepper and fresh herbs. The texture is plush and the finish long; a super value at under $20 to drink now and over the next few years.
Well priced for the quality, Villa Maria's entry-level Pinot Noir delivers moderately assertive notes of dried leaves, black cherries, cola and oaky spices. It's concentrated and gently mouth-filling, with a silky finish. Drink it now and over the next two years.
Well roasted and toasty, with plenty of barrel power and underlying black berry fruit. The palate is tight and fully tannic, while the palate has plum and sweet berry flavors. Ripe, a little grating and uncomplicated.
Well rounded, subtly spicy and deep in fruit concentration, this full-bodied wine packs a lot of flavor into an almost deceptively smooth package. It has plenty of black cherry, blackberry and cocoa notes to savor and a texture that's saturated with fine-grained tannins. Best after 2018.
Well stitched together with a broad, wide assembly of dark fruit, spice and cola-like aromas. All the wine's elements sing loud as a single chorus; bold, plush, chewy. Ends with ripe fruit, rum cake, pipe tobacco and dark espresso bean. Firm, great length.
Well structured and appetizingly tannic, this full-bodied wine from a consistently excellent producer has opulent fruit flavors, mouth-filling texture and wonderful ripeness. Black cherry, blackberry and a touch of cranberry meld with mild oak spices—a combination that lingers nicely on the finish. Best after 2019.
Well structured wine with plenty of ripe fruit. The freshness of fruit is replaced by spice and peach flavors.
Well structured wine, the red cherry fruits laced with some banana hints. The wine is deliciously fruity, the tannin edge just a light coating.
Well structured, it places its raspberry fruit in a compact, focused core. An appealing and balanced mix of herb, baking spices, citrus and white pepper highlights give the wine complexity beyond its apparent lightness. Drink now–2019.
Well structured, this combines ripe red fruits with a firm texture. It has a good concentration and a mineral, terroir-driven character that shows through in its dry core. The juicy acidity at the end gives a lift, but the wine needs to age. Drink from 2017.
Well structured, this ripe and fruity wine is impressive in its structure. It has smoky flavors, acidity from the red fruits and a firm lining of tannins. Aromatic and rich, still firm and dry, it should age but can be drunk now.
Well, who thought Chenin Blanc would end up in the Alentejo? Obviously not the guardian of the wine rules, which is why this classified as a mere table wine. However, the grape, perfumed and ripe in this warm climate, still weaves its magic to give a very fine wine with tropical fruit, a touch of honey and fine crisp acidity at the end. Drink this wine from late 2017.
Wellington held back this Cab for all these years, with good results. The cherry and blackberry flavors are just beginning to develop secondary complexities. The mouthfeel is softly tannic and light. It would be a fine wine for drinking with elegant beef dishes.
Welsh winemaker Damian Grindley delivers aromas of concentrated vanilla, bacon, black cherry compote, fig jam and barrel smoke in this wine from his west Paso estate. Loamy, earthy flavors evolve on the palate into elderberry fruit and leather, with a distinct minty sensation emerging on the finish, leaving the lips alive.
Welsh winemaker Damian Grindley has turned out a winner from north of his Paso Robles winery. Aromas of black cherry, toasted vanilla, fudge and cigar ash lead into a palate that's juicy and jammy with black fruits at first, but then edged with dark flavors of coffee grinds and charred meat.
Wente continues to impress with fine wines at fair price points, and this 2007 is a case in point, a high-end offering at a still reasonable price. A rich, red Cabernet Sauvignon, with Petite Verdot and Petite Sirah in here, too, it delivers intense flavors of dark, ripe plums and brown sugar, a very agreeable Cabernet that will pair well with rich red meats.
Wente does a consistently good job with this Riesling, which is from a cool appellation in the Salinas Valley. The '11 is off-dry and clean in acidity, with citrus fruit, green apple, honey and spice flavors.
Wente remains remarkably adept at making very good wines in big volumes at fair prices. This is a textbook example—a crisp, layered and complex SB that's as floral as spring, generous in acidity and lemony on the finish. Pair with shellfish, chicken or goat cheese on crackers.
West of the Okanagan valley, Similkameen Valley is being touted as the next great Canadian wine region. If these first releases from Vanessa are typical, they are right on track. This Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cab Franc blend is a supple and sensuous wine, with well-integrated flavors of fig, black cherry, brambly berry, roasted coffee and mocha. It's sturdy, layered and balanced, with a hint of smoke from aging 18 months in a mix of French and American oak.
West Side, in Paso Robles, means hot, and while the alcohol in this wine is a moderate 13.5%,  you can taste the heat in the gentle tannins and soft acids. It's bone-dry, with berry flavors. A nicely crafted young wine. —S.H.
Wet and citrusy smelling, with a touch of toasty oak. Good and medium-bodied on the palate, with decent acidity and balance. Tastes like spiced apple and melon, with vanilla and mild woodspice on the finish. Well done for under $10.
Wet cedar, dried leaves and mushroom notes extend a woodsy, earthy tone to ripe black cherry and plums in this unusually savory, nuanced Merlot. Supple and ripe, it extends languorously on the palate, fringed by fine tannins and an appetizing touch of bitterness on the finish. Drink now through 2020.
Wet cement, cinnamon, wild mint, rust, oregano, cocoa and wild berries show on the nose of this wine from a very reliable producer. The palate offers cranberry and pencil-lead flavors, pumped by Earl Grey tea, bergamot and dried-herb complexity.
Wet cement, cut grass and fresh oregano aromas show on the nose of this affordable white. Dried herb, hay and kaffir lime flavors come through on the palate, making it an excellent choice for weekday sipping.
Wet clay, tomato paste, oregano and carob aromas form the bouquet that's more strained than smooth. The palate is lively and herbal in flavor, with a baked berry note that ends in a wash of herb. It gets better with airing.
Wet earth, pine needle and floral aromas and assertive menthol and lanolin flavors lend a bold, unorthodox personality to this full-bodied wine-in-a-can.
Wet earth, rain-wet stones, damp moss, wild sage and very ripe pear make for a complex opening. Further sniffs reveal more citrus: both juice and zest of lemon. The palate still holds a lot of leesy yeast flavors but its phenolic richness is tempered by total citrus freshness. This is still tightly wound; leave it so it can come into its own. The warming resonance on the palate suggests it has a long future. Drink from 2019.
Wet leaf, black cherry, and assertive barrel flavors of brown sugar, maple syrup and crème brûlée are the dominant notes in this blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc. The short, slightly bitter, green finish is the downside.
Wet moss, green apple and russet-pear peel create a nose that is spicy, fresh and fruity. The palate concentrates these flavors against a backdrop of zesty citrus freshness. Compact and taut, the body is accentuated by slight spritz, and is very appealing in its zesty vigor.
Wet river rock and struck flint notes accentuate the sharp, tangy vitality of this razor-edged Kabinett. Zesty white grapefruit, lime and tangerine flavors penetrate deeply on the midpalate, finishing long but lean. It drinks beautifully already but should hold well through 2022.
Wet river stone, black slate and a hint of dill weed are laid across a blackberry frame on this wine by vintners Jim and Mary Dierberg. It's lush and soft on the palate, with black cherry and other dark fruits hanging on a solid structure that finished on dried herbs and leather.
Wet slate and chalk penetrate through silken layers of honey, fig and dried apricot in this decadent beerenauslese. It's intensely concentrated in fruit, but also racy and taut, finishing with a flair of rose petals and pink grapefruit. Stunning now, but structured enough to develop beautifully for decades.
Wet slate minerality leads the brisk, tightly wound nose. On the palate, the wine is a bit perfumed, at least for how tight the nose is, with elements of crisp apple, pear and a touch of nectarine.
Wet slate, cinnamon and allspice notes meet with red cherry, baked black cherry and bramble on the nose of this bottling from a popular single-vineyard source. Clay and chalky earth notes show on the palate, which is very full and rich with tart cherry, black plum and pencil-lead flavors.
Wet stone and a chalky underbelly of crisp, clean and low-oaked fruit entices in this food-friendly wine, elegant in lemon, lime and green apple. Juicy and well-rounded, it's an easily enjoyable wine at a fair price that will please a range of palates.
Wet stone and earth notes add a distinct minerality to intensely fruity peach and apricot flavors on this ripe, but dainty Riesling. Zippy acidity and a flurry of fresh, green herbs make for a brisk finish.
Wet stone and graphite scents up front give way to hints of honey and Earl Grey tea (bergamot). It's medium bodied and fades quickly on the finish, but it's a solid buy for under $10.
Wet stone and lemon-lime. If those sound good to you, this ageworthy Riesling is a fit for you. It's medium in body yet very crisp and linear in structure, with a hint of citrus pith on the finish. Drink 2015–2020.
Wet stone and lemon set the tone when it comes to scent. The palate falls in with these themes and presents precision and poise; the razor-sharp freshness of lemon zest is both brightening and deliciously bracing. This is a svelte but concentrated wine of great purity that has not really come into its own yet. It is perfumed now but one cannot help but suspect much more development of aroma in the future. All the potential, concentration and balance is there. The finish is dry and lemony. Drink 2017–2030.
Wet stone and lime blossoms kick off the pretty nose on this bottling, bolstered by nectarine, white peach and a mango tropicality. There are lemon and sea-salt touches once sipped, with baked-apple fruit on a tightly wound palate.
Wet stone, cut grass and white pepper create an appetizing nose. The palate positively sprays with refreshing, lively pepperiness and verve while the balanced body cushions its freshness in a creamy, white-pepper-scented core of pleasant lightness.
Wet, hot concrete, blueberry paste, olallieberry jelly and black-fig aromas swirl on the nose of this delicious boutique bottling by Jeremy Weintraub, also winemaker at Adelaida. The palate is evenly measured, showing a solid structure with grippy black fruits, espresso, cola and Dr Pepper flavors.
Wet, salinic, oceanic and appley on the nose, with snappy, crisp, almost tart flavors of apple and citrus. A pure wine with juicy acids and a monotone finish that sports lemon and green apple. Powerful, pure, acidic and zesty for Chilean Chardonnay.
What's 25 Barricas? The 25 barrels of this wine. It is a grand wine that has dark tannins, firm structure and rich fruit all in the right places. Of course, it is young, so the firm, dry tannins need to soften out. It's the balance that winemaker Jorge Moreira commands that makes it so good. The result is a wine that will age impressively over many years. Drink this powerful wine from 2019.
What's nice about this wine is its bone dryness, and the way the acidity scours and cleanses the palate. It's subtle in citrus, grass and hay flavors, with complex herb, spice and mineral complexities. A superior California Sauvignon Blanc, and a superb food wine.
What's nice about this wine is the acidity: It burns; it sparkles; it makes your mouth water and prepares it for yummy food. It's not all about fruit, oak and lees—a meal in itself. The flavors are of apples and peaches dusted with pepper and cinnamon. —S.H.
What's not to like about this extremely fruity, easy-drinking Rhône-style blend? It smells and tastes like blackberry jam, with a lightly tannic texture. A touch of sweetness keeps it soft.
What's so appealing about this wine is the precise control it exhibits. That's partly the winemaker's touch, but it's also the terroir of Dry Creek Valley, which gives the wine crisp acids and less overt fruit than neighboring Napa Valley. It's savory, with flavors of blackberries, currants, tobacco and herbs, along with a lovely brambly character. Drink now–2017.
What's so interesting about this wine is the savory minerality, racy acidity and extreme dryness that make it completely different from 99% of the Sauvignon Blancs in California. It's not without fruit. You'll find mouthwatering Meyer lemons, sweet Kaffir limes and spicy figs. Just beautiful, and a real sommelier's wine.
What's so likeable about this Cabernet is the dryness and the overall balance, which is stylish and elegant. It keeps the blackberry and black currant fruit in check with earthier tones of tobacco and olives.
What's so likeable about this Pinot is its dryness, silkiness and elegance. It shows a cool-climate structure, with a bite of acidity and fine tannins, and tantalizing flavors of raspberries, cherries, cola and minerals. Should develop in the bottle over the next six years.
What's so nice about this Cab is its balance and delicacy, without the heaviness that can mar a more alcoholic wine. It shows polished flavors of cherries, blackberries, cola and cedar, with a long, fine finish of cassis liqueur. Really an elegant sipper, this wine is best now and for a couple years.
What's so refreshing about this blush wine is its crisp acidity and the slight bitterness that makes it almost like a digestif. It has a wealth of fresh, green herb flavors, like sage and thyme, along with red cherryskin and white pepper. Complex and full-bodied, it can replace a red Pinot on hot summer nights.
What's so wonderful about this Pinot is the way it reconciles all sorts of opposites. It's dry but sweet in fruit, and delicate yet potent at the same time. It's totally accessible now, but enormously complex. Flavors of raspberries and cherries meld with pomegranates and persimmons, as well as mushrooms, tea and licorice. It's a joy to drink now, and should develop in the cellar for at least 10 years.
What's this? Single-vineyard Barbera coming from The Rocks District? It's a stunner, with notes of crushed rock and gravel, red and black currants and smoke that show outrageous minerality. The mouthfeel is flat out stunning, showing subtlety and suppleness, with fruit and savory flavors lingering on the finish.
What's up with this once proud value leader? Wines of character and balance used to be the norm (circa 2001-2002) but now Rívola has devolved into an herbal, green wine with difficult aromas and vegetal flavors. The mix is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Tempranillo.
What a bargain in a fine Chardonnay. There is a hint of vanilla, flavors of pears, apples and melons and a rich mouthfeel, perfectly balanced by ample acidity. Should be easy to find, with 15,000 cases produced. From Delicato.
What a beautiful Cabernet. It's dry and classically elegant, with sweet, ripe tannins framing succulent blackberry, black cherry, violet, cedar and mineral flavors. Really a great wine for drinking now, and so balanced, it will easily negotiate a decade in the bottle.
What a beautiful combination of grapefruit and mandarin peel on the nose: one part zesty freshness, the other plump and juicy promise. The palate does not disappoint and throws in notions of bergamot, as well as a citric thrill of exquisite lightness.
What a beautiful Pinot Noir for drinking now with lamb chops or maybe a rich, exotic Ahi tuna tartare. Brilliantly crisp in acidity, with a clean, bracing mouthfeel, it offers dazzlingly rich flavors of raspberries, cherries, orange zest, Dr. Pepper cola and Asian spices, with smoky oak adding elaborate tiers of vanilla char. For the price, it's a very great buy.
What a beautiful wine this is for drinking now and over the next few years. It's lush and approachable, but it also has plenty of complexity, offering waves of blackberry, cherry, red currant, mocha and delicately toasted oak. Easy to find, with 8,950 cases produced.
What a beautiful Zinfandel this is. It has punchy, ripe raspberry and black cherry, red currant, red licorice, white pepper and vanilla oak flavors that are dry, smoothly tannic and brisk in acidity. Despite the brown sugar richness the finish is totally dry. Great with barbecue.
What a beauty! Masculine aromas of black fruits, cola and oak sit there begging to be sipped, while the lush, deep palate is home to dense blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors. Lively but dense, with tannins, plenty of oak and a finish of black pepper, fudge and vanilla. Complex and exciting Spanish wine. Needs time; best from 2012 through 2018.
What a big difference a year can make on the Mornington Peninsula, which juts daringly out into the Southern Ocean near Melbourne. This is lightweight and tart, revealing hints of decaying leaves, fruit reminiscent of pie cherries and virtually no tannin.
What a bold and powerful selection this is. It opens with intense aromas of blackberry, black plum and boysenberry that are hit with spicy notes of black pepper, cured meat, leather and Thin Mint. The plush and concentrated palate is like crushed velvet in texture, with gripping yet balanced tannins to support the rich, dense black-fruit flavors. The finish transitions from black cherry and boysenberry fruit to menthol, followed by lingering cocoa nib and charred oak tones. Drink 2019–2024.
What a clean, pretty fruit-and-flowers nose this has, and theflavors don't disappoint. Melon and citrus dominate, but it's all ripe fruit and not the least bit lean. The tail end is lengthy and layered, if maybe a bit chalky. But all in all this wine delivers the goods with a smile.
What a combination—quality on par with some of Australia's top performers at a price point that doesn't put you on the bread line. Lively, with brisk acidity, the Bin 7 has lime, grass and mineral notes and just enough viscosity to remind you that it's Riesling, not Sauvignon Blanc. Finishes long and fresh, with sour apple flavors.  Editors' Choice.
What a creamy Champagne, its mousse bursting around the mouth. Impressively, all this creaminess is well balanced by full, dry fruits, flavors of pear and fresh bread and finished with crisp apples. This is not a wine for aging, but it is ready to go with many meals now.
What a delicious barbecue wine. It shows Malbec's thick, sturdy tannins and California's ripe, sweet fruit, in the way of blackberries, cassis and blueberries, with a savory streak of espresso. But it's totally dry on the finish. Shows how well the Rockpile appellation ripens these big, full-bodied red wines.
What a delicious Pinot Noir. The cool, long vintage has given it wonderful lightness and acidity, yet also an intensity of fruit that makes it irresistible. Marked by flavors of raspberries, cherries, cola and red currants, it's a wine to savor now, with Pinot-friendly foods such as lamb and steak.
What a delicious Sauvignon Blanc, and look at that everyday price. It's so easy to like the creamy, yet tart flavors of peaches, with a slight touch of sour lees for complexity. From Mason Cellars, with a case production of 48,000.
What a delicious Zin this is. Sourced from the warm climates of Lodi and Amador County, it's ripe and fruity, offering waves of wild raspberries and cherries dusted with brown sugar, cocoa and pie spice. Great value in a lusty, versatile Zin.
What a delicious, easy-to-like bubbly. It's definitely on the sweet side, but crisp in acidity, with raspberry jam, vanilla and buttered toast flavors. It will pair nicely with ham sandwiches, fried chicken, fresh fruit.
What a delightful wine this is. Loaded with finesse, it opens with lovely scents of red berry, crushed rose, graphite, cooking spice and Alpine herb. The beguiling medium-bodied palate offers sour cherry, raspberry, white pepper and mineral while fresh acidity and polished tannins provide impeccable balance. It's already drinking beautifully but will also provide several more years of pure enjoyment.
What a difference a year can make. Last year's Brunello was ripe and awkward, but this pretty 2004 vintage hits all the right notes. The wine is firm, tonic and buoyant and those impressions are sustained thanks to uplifting aromas of wild berry, cherry cola and spice.
What a difference a year makes. In the warm '09 vintage, this was ripe and delicious. But in 2010, a much cooler year in Chile, the wine came out dry and leafy, with aromas of green herbs that strengthen with airing. Flavors of mint and green herbs are dominant, while plum and spice flavors form the underbelly. A scratchy feeling finish confirms this wine's abrasive DNA.
What a disappointment. This isn't the Artist Series it used to be. It's okay for an everyday Cab, but is simple, with watered-down blackberry and cherry jam flavors. Not ageable, so drink up.
What a fabulous vintage for this fragrant, radiant wine. Opening with alluring scents of iris, rose, culinary spice and perfumed berry, the focused palate delivers crushed strawberry, red cherry, cinnamon and star anise. It's loaded with finesse, thanks to firm ultrarefined tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2022–2033.
What a fine Chardonnay. Made in a bone dry, minerally style, it may not have the immediately seductive quality of some Chards, but it does show a Chablis-like elegance that makes it a natural for food pairing, with its fine citrus and steel tang and mouthwatering acidity.
What a fine Syrah this is. It's the color of midnight on a moonless night, with just a hint of ruby purple at the rim. The aromatics are closed, but provide tantalizing hints of cedar, jam and pepper. It's in the mouth that this young wine shows its stuff, erupting with sweet chocolate, intensely ripe blackberries and savory smoked meat. The tannins close in on the finish, suggesting that the wine needs time. Don't even think of popping the cork before 2016.
What a fine, beautiful wine this is. Shows every graceful aspect of a modern Napa Cab, from the perfectly ripened fruit to the unbelievably fine tannins and application of oak. Thrills the mouth with decadently rich black currants, crême de cassis, milk chocolate, anise and cedar flavors, but never loses an impeccable sense of balance and control. Best now, even without decanting, and through 2014.
What a great bargain this wine is. It's soft and delicious with blackberry, currant, brown sugar and creamy mocha flavors that lead to a spicy finish. It's easy to drink this Cab with all sorts of foods that pair well with a full-bodied red.
What a great break from boring commercial red blends! This vibrant but deep wine from the Fore Family Vineyard at 3,000-feet in elevation has beautiful spicy aromas like black pepper, cardamom and tar, distinctive flavors of cranberry and black cherry and a taut texture of fine-grained tannins and good acidity.
What a great follow-up to the 2009 vintage. You can put this in the cellar with entire confidence that it will age for likely 10–20 years, and actually improve. At nearly three years of age, it's rich and vibrant with black currants, blueberries and dark chocolate, and a big hit of sweet oak. But the tannins are impossible, locking the mouth down with astringency. It's a pity that most of the 2l,064 bottles produced will probably be opened too young.
What a great improvement the '06 is over the '05. It's considerably lower in alcohol, and much more balanced and crisp. Yet the flavors are ripe and seductive, in peaches, pears, papayas, honeysuckle flowers and oak-influenced butter, honey and vanilla. Great with Thai food.
What a great Pinot Gris. Barrel-fermented, it shows a toasty, creamy smokiness to the citrus, nectarine, fig and vanilla flavors, with that Edna Valley acidity that's so clean and refreshing. Absolutely delicious, it's rich and substantial enough to stand in as an interesting alternative to Chardonnay.
What a great Pinot, and look at that price. The wine is translucent in ruby hue, dry, silky in texture and crisp in acids, showing the textural hallmarks of a fine coastal bottling. The raspberry, cherry, cola and spice flavors are delicious and complex. A terrific value. Production was 1,100 cases.
What a great price for a Chardonnay this balanced and savory. It's bright in acidity, with keen flavors of limes, oranges, tropical fruits and vanilla, and just a touch of buttered toast. Easy to find, with a production of 6,000 cases.
What a great price for a Pinot Noir with this charm and integrity. It's a wonderful wine, dry and rich in raspberry, cherry and spice flavors. Feels svelte and silky in the mouth, just like you want Pinot to be. Might even gain a few notes with a year or two in the bottle.
What a great price for a white wine this crisp and likeable. It's dry, yet rich, with orange, tropical fruit, honeysuckle, vanilla and white-pepper flavors, along with excellent acidity. The grapes come from Paso Robles and Lake County.
What a great red wine for drinking now. It has the structure of a fine Merlot, soft and refined, yet the flavors are pure Southern Rhône. There's an umami smoked meatiness to the blackberry jam and black currant fruit, while a touch of oak adds just the right note of sweet toast.
What a great red wine, just about perfect for steak. It's dry, full-bodied and tannic, with big, ripe blackberry and blueberry flavors. A little rustic, yes, but terrific for drinking now, and easily one of the best California Malbecs ever. And look at that price.
What a great Sauvignon Blanc, a fine followup to the 2011. A 100% varietal wine, it's brisk and clean with acidity, along with complex flavors of Meyer lemons, limes, ripe white peaches, honey and a touch of golden mangoes. Only neutral oak was applied, which allows the fruit to star.
What a great Sierra Foothills mountain Zin. It's big, dry and brawny, with thick, sticky tannins that call for rich beef dishes. But it's also balanced. The official alcohol is below 14%, and the blackberry, currant, leather, tobacco and baker's chocolate flavors are streaked with nutmeg,cinnamon, anise and pepper spice.
What a great success. Oozes with blackcurrant jam and cassis and a dash of black pepper. Flamboyant oak adds a perfume of vanilla and smoke. Fleshy, long and full, this beautiful wine is not a monster, but it coats the palate with spicy flavors that epitomize class and style.
What a great value! This medium-bodied wine has spicy oak accents and mouth-filling fruit flavors. It's ripe and generous, with plump cherry and raspberry notes and a palate marked by mild tannins and soft texture.
What a great wine for the price. It's made from various Napa mountain vineyards, and shows concentrated blackberry and black currant flavors, wrapped into superfine Napa tannins that go down with silky smoothness. Not cheap, but the price is a bargain compared to superexpensive Napa Cabs. At nearly 6,000 cases produced, it's a steal.
What a great wine for the price. This doesn't have too much tannin, but instead features plenty of tempting black cherry and olive flavors. It's a delicious, dry wine in a classic style.
What a great wine this is. It combines Chardonnay's rich, creamy texture with Sauvignon Blanc's dry, tart, lemony flavors to yield a complex wine that's a joy to drink. The acidic, peppery finish begs for food to accompany it. A very great value.
What a heady nose. Tangerine peel, hay flowers and ripe apples all dance and swirl across the senses. The palate takes the swirling fruit and fragrance up a notch, heightened with the intensity of tangy lemon freshness. This has utter precision and concentration, there almost seems to be a life force of stone and power behind it. It's a textbook Riesling with a clean, dry and totally tangy moreish finish. Lovely now but with great potential. Drink 2017–2035.
What a lovely and balanced rendition of Zweigelt: its forest fruit and cherry notes are pure and held in a tight focus on the midpalate. The body is smooth, full-fruited, generous but balanced by vibrant, food-friendly and appetizing freshness. Handled with such bravura, Zweigelt almost attains a Pinot-like elegance—no wonder, since the Reinisch-brothers are masters of their art.
What a lush and spectacular New World Malbec. Buttery aromas of coconut and black fruits mix with herbs, mineral and char to create a near-perfect bouquet. The palate is saturated and balanced by great natural acidity, which frames the blackberry and herb flavors in excellent light. Meaty, textured, fruity and balanced: What more could you want? Drink now–2010. Imported by Baystate Wine Co.
What a mouthful of flavor! You don't know Muscat or Moscato until you've enjoyed this rare dry interpretation. It is aromatic and exotic, lively with fresh acidity yet full of ripe apple and peach flavors that linger on the finish. Great with salty appetizers like prosciutto or nuggets of Parmigiana.
What a nice Merlot, Brander's best yet. It's easy to drink now for the rich array of cherries, currants, cola, smoked meat and cedar, brightened with brisk acidity. But give it an hour or two in the decanter to soften and mellow.
What a nice Paso Cabernet, perfect for drinking now. While dry in style, it's rich and sweet in black currant, anise and cedar flavors, and the thick tannins are just what you want in a full-bodied Cab. Wonderful with hearty beef dishes.
What a nice Riesling, and look at that price. It's crisp and rich, with an oily texture and interesting flavors of citrus, honeysuckle and that complex organic taste known as diesel or lighter fluid. Although there's a sweet finish, the wine is fundamentally dry. This is one of the best values now on the American market.
What a nice Sauvignon Blanc this is. It's crisp and delicately structured, with light, airy flavors of limes, dried hay, pineapple zest and white pepper.
What a nice Sauvignon Blanc, so savory and rich in fruit. It's a little sweet, with a honeyed edge to the peach, pineapple, lemon and green grass flavors. Nice with an Asian-style chicken salad with ginger and spices. From Mason.
What a nice Syrah for drinking now. It shows that firm structure of Highlands reds, with fine acidity and dusty tannins, and is rich in blackberry, currant, licorice, bacon, black pepper and cedar flavors. Too bad more Syrahs aren't this good.
What a nice wine for bistro-style drinking. Conjures up pairing with almost everything, from tempura to grilled chicken to pork enchiladas. Bone dry and crisp, it offers outstanding flavors of citrus fruits, petrol, wildflowers, grass, minerals, honey and spices. A blend of Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli and Chenin Blanc.
What a nice wine for drinking now and over the next few years. At the age of nearly four, it's mellow and rich, with the blackberry fruit and oak flavors achieving a savory marriage. Finishes dry, spicy and tart.
What a nice wine for drinking now. The second wine of esteemed Laurel Glen, it's made from 100% Cabernet. The grapes from Sonoma County have been joined by fruit from Napa Valley, resulting in plenty of blackberry and cherry richness. With classy tannins, it's a great success for the chilly 2011 vintage.
What a nice wine for this price. It's so dry and crisp and minerally and easy to drink, with enough sophistication to satisfy even fussy wine snobs. The subtle flavors include lemons, limes and smoky oak.
What a nice wine to drink with almost anything that wants a white wine, from chicken or pork to potstickers. It's bone dry and brisk in Edna Valley acidity, with flavors of lemons, limes, green apples, minerals and white flowers.
What a nice wine. It's so dry, acidically crisp, and so balanced, it puts many more expensive California Sauvignon Blancs to shame. There's no oak in this screwtopped wine, nothing to muck up the pure, fresh citrus and fig flavors. The winemaker has allowed high natural acidity to remain, which makes everything ultraclean and savory.
What a perfumed, elegant, structured wine, with all the elements of fruit, wood, tannins just in the right place. It shows great tannins, powerful black and red berry fruits, denseness, and a classic, fresh aftertaste.
What a pleasant surprise awaits you here: It's delectable, decadent and downright delicious. Fabulous mango, lime, and peach aromas parade upward in advance of vivid nectarine and pink grapefruit flavors. This charmer, which features perfect vitality and acidity, is almost too easy to drink and enjoy.
What a powerfully lovely, lilting and blockbuster of a wine this is. Seamless in baked rhubarb and a velvety texture it never stops impressing, allowing for nuanced explosions of black cherry and Asian spice to coat the palate and become more complex the longer each sip lingers. Deliciously drinkable now, the wine will take on additional wow factor over time.
What a pretty Syrah this is. With moderate alcohol and subtle oak influences, it's dry and stylishly elegant in the mouth. The flavors veer toward ripe cherries and blackberries, sprinkled with cinnamon, cocoa and finely-ground black pepper. Drink now–2015.
What a pretty wine! Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot, it's delicious and complex, with each of the grape varieties bringing something different. The blackberry, cherry, currant and cedar flavors are wrapped into silky tannins. Should age for 5–6 years, but there's no reason you can't drink it now.
What a pretty wine. Made for drinking soon, it shows impeccable balance in the finely ground tannins, moderate alcohol and deft touch of oak. Feels soft and complex in the mouth, carrying flavors of berries, herbs, mocha and sandalwood. Easy to find, with 16,056 cases produced.
What a rare and beautiful expression of Sagrantino. This delivers unusual tones of cola, eucalyptus, dried ginger, wild berry and exotic spice. The characteristic firm tannins and structure of Sagrantino appear fine and textured.
What a rare, complex and spectacular wine. Well-aged and fortified wines like this are uncommon in California but this full-bodied and very sweet example proves it's possible. It has gorgeous aromas of apricot, honey and toasted nuts followed by expansive, ripe-and-spicy fruit flavors transformed by the aging process. The mouthfeel is lavish and full, enabling a wonderful finish that lasts for minutes.
What a roll Feliz Noche has been on. They're scoring hit after hit, and this lovely Syrah is right on. Drink it now for its polished tannins, soft texture and dry, rich flavors of blackberry jam, cherry tart, cola and chocolate.
What a roll Mumm Napa is on with their new releases. This blush wine shows the level of richness and elegance the winery has achieved lately. Made from 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay, it has deliciously forward flavors of raspberries, strawberries, gingersnap cookies and vanilla lemon custard, with the bubbly froth and tart yeastiness of a fine sparkling wine.
What a step up this is from the winery's Are You Game? bottling. The acids are a little edgy, but they serve to highlight the wine's savory complexities and brighten the fruit well into the red spectrum. Cherries and earth glide to a long, finely textured finish. Drink now–2020.
What a superb Zin this is. It's a robust, luscious wine, that's thrillingly rich with notes of wild blackberries and raspberries, red licorice, cola and crushed peppercorn, along with a subtle jacket of smoky oak. The grapes come from a small vineyard in the heart of Dry Creek Valley. Drink now–2018.
What a surprise to find such a delicate and berry-driven Pinot Nero from sunny Umbria in central Italy. This tastes very much like a Pinot you'd find in any northern region with feminine fruit and floral nuances lavished over by raspberry, vanilla, honey, cola and lavender. It's fragrant and buoyant in the mouth with loads of personality and bright acidity on the close: a pleasure to drink.
What a surprise to find that this Riesling is bone dry. It boasts complex flavors of mineral, lime, Meyer lemon and orange zest, with fantastic acidity that awakens the palate and prepares it for food.
What a treat to find a great rendition of this rare varietal. Concentrated black-fruit flavors pair beautifully with aromatic oak accents in this bold and complex wine. It has plenty of tannins to support the intense blackberry and blueberry flavors, while enticing cinnamon, cumin and leather come up in the aroma and last through the lingering finish.
What a value. Pretty much as delicious as Paso reds get, although it's high in alcohol. Dazzles with cherry, blackberry, currant, dark chocolate, sweet sandalwood and cinnamon spice flavors.
What a wine. It tries to intimidate. At first, by its bottle size and alcohol level, but in the glass this 100% Garnacha is like a purring kitten—well a purring 20-pound Maine Coon cat, joyous in its pretty red fruit, and its earthy, meaty, vanilla and cinnamon toast range of goodness. All lush, Twisted Oak's Torcido is, like a retro soap opera, brave and beautiful.
What a wonderful Cabernet this is for the price. It's producer, Delicato, is one of the few wineries with wide enough access to fruit to be able to produce something this good and affordable. It's softly gentle in black cherries, cola, mocha and dusty tannins, finishing with a long, sweet spiciness.
What a wonderful surprise! Barolo Donna Bianca is a beautiful wine with a long list of special attributes. First is the wine's complexity, which shines through in the many aromas, from pressed violets to Indian spice. Second is the wine's natural richness and smoothness of texture. Third is its ability to age a long time in your cellar.
What a wonderful wine to pair with game hen or roasted quail. This delicate and elegant expression boasts a superripe lining of strawberry and blueberry jam that gives this wine a youthful, more approachable quality.
What a wonderful wine to pair with spaghetti alle vongole or calamari fritti. Made from Grechetto grapes and aged only in stainless steel, this is fresh, youthful, tangy and crisp, with aromas of citrus, kiwi, honeydew and peach.
What Americans need is a good $8 Zinfandel, and what do you know? That's just what this is. Dry as dust but sweet in fruit, with all kinds of savory spices, this is the perfect everyday wine for barbecue. Production was 8,000 cases, so it shouldn't be too hard to find.
What an aromatic tease: there is elderflower, tart passion fruit and lots of fruity exuberance. The interplay between lip-smacking tartness and almost frivolous fruit makes for liveliness, excitement and joy. Serve this when you want your guests to sparkle as much as the wine. Autolytic flavors are subtle but provide a creamy finish.
What an interesting wine. It drinks like it really comes from someplace, which is to say, it has terroir. It smells earthy and peppery, with a perfume of cassis. It's soft in tannins and acids, but utterly delicious. Hard to exaggerate the lip-smacking quality and fantastic finish.
What an inviting, friendly perfume of stone-fruit tempered by lemony freshness. This provides glorious refreshment with such a huge amount of charm that it becomes irresistible. Underneath is a creamy but bracing base of texture that anchors this firmly in ancient stone. This soothes and thrills at the same time—what a delicious, compelling paradox.
What appears as apply, plummy fruit on the nose gains ample spice on the palate. Fermented and aged in used barriques, this wine has an unusual style that really demands food. It's fresh and fruity but with added roundness from wood.
What Baumard describes as a “secret blend” from its vineyards, this wine is both sweet and fresh. Honey and intense acidity are filled out with baked apple and lemon-marmalade flavors. It is ready to drink in all its fresh glory.
What deep, supple flavors on this soft, delicious wine. The grapes obviously had no trouble ripening, and offer waves of blackberries, plums and black currants, not to mention spices like fennel and pepper. Very dry and fancy, this wine could sit on the best tables and not hang its head. Best Buy.
What differentiates this from the winery's other Grüner is hard to say. Both are round and spicy, with moderate acidity and a suggestion of residual sugar. This has a touch more alcohol, and a bit of heat in the finish.
What differentiates this offering is the block selection—all Pommard clone—and a higher (30%) proportion of new cooperage. Warm and generous fruit flavors bring strawberry and cherry in a lushly textured wine that refreshes as it delights. The finish adds extended notes of lemon custard, orange flan and a lick of caramel.
What does “briary” mean? Think about a wild black raspberry bush on a hot summer afternoon. The wood, the bark, the dust, the chlorophyll from the baking leaves and the berries, with that wild, primitive, spicy, fructose-sweet bitterness. This wine is bone dry and finishes with a tannic bite. Drink it now with sturdy chow.
What has become Portugal's national red grape shows well here. It has the characteristic violet and hedgerow berry fruit perfumes that go with some firm tannins and black currant fruit flavors. It is a wine that will be ready to drink soon, so just wait until late 2016.
What herbal berry aromas this wine has evaporate fast, replaced by oaky clove and other spice notes. Iron tight and tannic, the wine draws on the cheeks. Spiced-up plum flavors set up a rugged finish with hard tannins and spicy berry residuals. Serve with beef or BBQ; it needs it.
What is so good about this wine is its balance. The producer has accentuated the fruit of the vintage, leaving aside any big tannic structure. The result is a black-currant wine that is juicy, fresh and developing well. Drink from 2017.
What jumps out immediately is a bright spicy scent. The forward fruit is a zesty mix of cranberry, guava and citrus, and the flavors just punch up the palate in a most delicious way. Drink this over the next couple of years while it retains its freshness.
What makes a great Chablis grand cru? It's the intensity of flavor, which can be found in this wine. Its green and white fruits are layered with wood spice and an ineffable crispness that allows the wine to show the purity of Chardonnay and the great terroir at the same time.
What makes this Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon blend stand out are its pristine balsam notes. Those beautifully pungent aromas are followed by exotic spice, black cherry, maple syrup and tobacco. The wine boasts deep concentration of color and flavors and obvious sophistication. It's a bit thick and sticky in the mouth with heavy wood tones and gritty tannins.
What makes this wine so good isn't just its fine Pinot Grigio character of crisp acidity and clean, savory citrus fruit flavors, it's also the unusual winemaking method. The PG was stainless-steel fermented, and then it was blended with some barrel-fermented Chard and Sauvignon Blanc. That adds richer, creamier notes that make the wine complex and exotic.
What power and drama have gone into this wonderful wine. Sheer Pomerol, with pencil shaving, black cherry, cedar, chocolate and gamy-meaty aromas and flavors, tinged with violets, and the most voluptuous mouthfeel. Sheer hedonism right through the long sweet finish.
What rich flavors there are here. With this fabulous vintage that ripened the grapes perfectly, it would be hard not to find plush  blackberry, cassis and other herb and spice flavors. The tannins are just a bit brash and bold, suggesting a year or so of aging to calm things down.
What rises from the glass is reminiscent of very ripe sun-warmed mirabelle and pear. The palate supports these fruits with wonderful, zesty concentration of citrus notes which also give a lovely pithy texture and brightness to the wine. The palate is dry and slender but has real impact. The finish is long, fresh and aromatic.
What separates the Orchard Block in terms of taste is a certain saline quality that underscores pretty plum and blackberry fruit. It's youthful and fresh, with balancing tannins and sufficient acidity for aging through 2020–2022. A gentle  hint of chocolate weaves through the finish.
What sets Gaja's super Tuscan apart is the extraordinary softness it offers both on the nose and in the mouth. The wine's aromas are cushiony and round, including milk chocolate, smooth cherry and silky spice. It tastes like liquid chocolate in the mouth and follows up with plump tannins and chewy succulence.
What sets this beautiful Riserva apart from the crowd is its delicate, ethereal and extremely harmonious nature. In the truest spirit of Chianti Classico, it offers a bright, fresh and crisp experience accented by aromas of cherry, red apple skin and subdued almond. That apple note adds buoyancy and dimension and affirms its traditional approach.
What sets this pretty Chianti Classico apart is its elegance and delicate harmony. Bright but subtle notes of forest berry, white cherry, cassis and vanilla are backed by fresh acidity and cooling freshness.
What sets this Taurasi apart is a distinct floral note of blue flower or pressed rose that sits over a much broader and bolder base of dark spice, black fruit, prune, resin and cola. The little floral accent adds a feminine touch to what is without a doubt one of Italy's most masculine wines.
What sets this wine apart are the cooling aromas of chopped mint and white licorice. It delivers tangy layers of black olive, resin, tar, tobacco leaf and sweet cinnamon stick.
What sets this wine apart is its gorgeous, creamy intensity on the finish. Made from Trebbiano, this expression shows the qualitative heights this variety can achieve. Notes of vanilla cream, peach cobbler, dried sage and pineapple appear on the bouquet. The finish is long and full. Try aging this for five years or longer.
What slight dark cherry fruit there is in this light '97 is submerged under the oak. It's a bit brown at the edges and overwooded. —M.M.
What stands out about Confluence most is its wealth of plush mushroom and woodsy earth accenting the otherwise rich, ripe, black cherry flavor. Powerful, it offers Anderson Valley's nuances, a dash of spice and bright acidity.
What stands out here is the purity and elegance of this wine's fruit-driven bouquet. This is a Rosso di Montalcino, but it drinks almost like a Brunello (which is by law aged more years in the cellar) thanks to its sophisticated style and integrated spice notes. The main difference is that you can taste the wine's youth here.
What stands out here is the wine's complexity. Dried apricots, honey and almond paste are framed by a tiny hint of mint or chopped basil. The wine is very sweet in the mouth but it is also balanced out by a blast of fresh acidity on the close. A blend of Garganega, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Cortese.
What stands out most in this wine is its floral flirtation, the ability to draw in the nose effortlessly and seductively. From there, it offers cherry-berry, cola and peppery clove in equal measure, the acidity in check and spicy on the tongue.
What strikes you first here is a bright note of crushed clove that accents this wine's fruity bouquet. Made with native Friulano grapes, the wine offers the structure and creaminess you need to pair with chicken or crab cakes.
What this 100% Merlot lacks in subtlety, it makes up for in the sheer power of its fruit. It's rich and spicy in black cherry, milk chocolate, red licorice and oak, after being aged for 20 months in 100% new French barrels. With thick but refined tannins, it's drinkable now.
What this Chardonnay lacks in immediate fruity richness, it more than makes up for in austere, complex minerality. The flavors veer towards lemon and lime, with hints of tropical fruit and the sweet smokiness of barrel aging. The acidity is vital and rich. It's a wine that develops complexity as it warms and opens up in the glass.
What this mature, ripe wine has lost in fruit, it has gained in richness and complexity. Its toasty, nutty character attracts, along with its tight acidity and taut, nervy texture. Nicely evolved and well-balanced, it is ready to drink now.
What this Pinot is not is ageable and dramatic, but it's a good expression of the variety: silky and dry, with savory cherry-skin and spice flavors.
What this Pinot lacks in opulence, it makes up for in elegance. The construction is as severely tailored as an Italian suit. Bone dry and quite tart in acidity, the flavors tread a delicate balance between ripe red cherries and persimmons to greener notes of heirloom tomatoes. Aging is doubtful, so give it a good decant.
What to mention first? A hint of mossy earth, chamomile tisane, Cox Orange Pippin apples or lemon zest? All of these aromas dance on the nose. They are still totally shy on the taut, dry and concentrated palate. For now, it is mossy citrus that is most aromatic while rich fruit still needs to unfurl. This strikes a note of utter purity, of something soaring and bright. Right now this is totally brisk, invigorating and refreshing but its true colors won't show for some time. Drink 2020–2035.
What to remark on first: those hints of mellow, luscious ripeness of plum, peach and apple, or that zesty, breezy lemon acidity? Together they make a complete and contrasting picture that focuses on full fruit expression and slender but concentrated linearity.
What would convince a producer to call a wine Jovly seems to be a mystery. That said, the wine is fresh, rounded with plenty of orange juice acidity, honey and a soft finish. Screwcap.
What you need to know about this wine is that it's pretty sweet. Straddles the border of off-dry, with sugary pineapple, tangerine and vanilla flavors.
What you see is what you get, a simple, affordable Cabernet, with decent berry, spice and oak flavors. It's dry and balanced.
Whatever the blend is on this red wine, and winemaker Heidi Barrett isn't saying, it's really interesting. The bottle is old-fashioned and stubby, like something from the 1700s. The wine itself is immediately likeable for its spicy array of spices and berries. Despite its upfront appeal, there's a complexity that elevates it.
Whatever the blend is on this wine, it's sweet and simple. It tastes like heavily sugared orange and herb tea, with a squirt of lime juice.
Whatever the grape varieties in this wine are, and the winery doesn't identify them, they're of the full-bodied type, like Petite Sirah or Zinfandel. It's an easy-drinking wine, soft and rich in cherries. Good for everyday fare, like burgers and tacos.
Whatever the Jackson family does in Santa Maria works quite well, including this wine. The wondrous nose shows chives, exotic pears, mandarin pith, sesame seeds, a touch of smoke and chalky grip. On the palate, flavors recall fried green apple peels, lemon juice, quince, star fruit and lemon pith.
Whatever the secret, it's working: year after year, de Nit excels. This vintage is typically crisp and focused up front, with aromas of dried cherry, orange, vanilla and wood spice. Elegant and crystal clear on the palate, this light rosé tastes of tangerine, plum skins and white pepper. A long, unbreakable finish only helps it along.
Whatever the varieties are on this wine, and it's not disclosed, it's soft, ripe and simple, with orange, peach and lime flavors.
Wheat grass and hot peppers make for an intriguing if odd bouquet. A fair amount of vegetal flavor carries onto the palate—mostly green beans and some pickle. Fortunately, there is also a light tropical fruit background to the flavor profile, something reminiscent of papaya. Ultimately, however, this wine is characterized more by its vegetal character than bright, clean fruit.
Wheaty and waxy on the nose, this Viura also smells of vinyl and corn. A limited palate is directed by pointed acidity, while flavors of almond skins and pithy citrus are somewhat bitter and finish with zero character.
Wheaty and yeasty on the nose, this becomes clearer and more focused on the palate and finish. The mouthfeel is round and solid, while the flavor profile folds in a maderized tone, with cherry and raspberry notes and mild bitterness.
Wheaty white-fruit aromas lack pop and clarity. This feels round and fairly juicy due to its acidity. Lime flavors are tempered by a bready yeasty note and fall off quietly on the finish.
Wheaty, flat aromas are indicators that this is losing its luster. The palate is chunky, with melon, mango and canned peach flavors. Best to wait for a newer vintage.
When a Bordeaux wine gets into a heavy bottle, it has something to prove. As here, when the wine has way too much wood and lacks fruit. It could balance out, but that is a long shot.
When a producer renowned for its red wines can turn out an elegant, understated white of this quality, you know Australian Chardonnay has firmly arrived. Subtle accents of toasted nuts frame citrusy fruit, and while the wine is full-bodied and round in the mouth, it remains focused and long and on the finish. If you're fortunate enough to get some of the 600 bottles imported, drink the wine over the next couple of years.
When a rosé pushes past 14% alcohol, that's an indication of a pretty potent wine. Here's a fine example, showcasing ripe strawberry and peach fruit, with excellent concentration and mouth-filling flavors. Using all free-run juice, this is fresh and full-bodied.
When a winery this good puts their name on a particular, prized vineyard, it pretty much guarantees you a great flavor ride. It pays off here, with this sophisticated Pinot Noir that carries itself with seamless authority. Red plum, black cherry and a dusting of baking spices all converge in a complex and delicious wine that pins the hedonism meter.
When a young Pinot Noir is dominated by oak, as this one is, it's a little worrying. Will the oak be absorbed in time, or will it always be excessive? This young wine has pleasant cherry, black raspberry and cola flavors, but the oak seems to have the upper hand. Drink soon.
When Aveleda's Guedes family purchased Quinta da Agueira, it came with its own grand house, a 19th century folly (a great term in the British lexicon). So, being fans of follies, the family named this spicy wine after the house. This wine is dense and concentrated, with dark fruit balanced by structured tannins. Drink now–2022.
When botrytis struck, the Bien Nacido Vineyard-owning Miller family (who plan to steadily up production on this brand) made this dessert wine. This show honey, concentrated honey blossoms, golden raisin and baklava notes on the nose. The palate is expectedly viscous yet intriguingly grippy, with flavors of dried lemon peel, chamomile and honey butter, finishing on peanut brittle.
When California Riesling succeeds, it's because of wines like this, which hails from a well-farmed, cool-climate region. The two most important varietal elements, racy acidity and subtle flavor, both are here. The latter suggest peaches, Meyer lemons and wildflowers, with a rich undertow of stony minerals, and the finish is wonderfully bone dry. What a great restaurant wine.
When caught fresh, this is one of the Txakoli region's best wines. It comes on hard, clacky and tight as a box of nails, with citrus and minerally aromas. The palate is crisp and tight, with apple, lime, kiwi and spritz. Long, clean and refreshing.
When Donatella Colombini left the family estate of Fattoria dei Barbi, she set up her own production network at Fattoria del Casato. Here she has made an elegant 1997 Brunello, brimming with black tar and cherries, and balanced ripe, sweet tannins and acidity. While it is not powerful, it is smooth, ripe and seductive.
When Dry Creek gets it right, few wineries anywhere can beat their Zins. Somers Ranch is in the eastern hills, where it gets the full benefit of the afternoon sun. The wine is impressive in ripe blackberries, currants, licorice and cocoa, but maintains a beautiful structure, with soft, fine tannins and just-in-time acidity.
When first opened it is tight and herbal, with the scent of blood. But the subtle hints of rock and spice that underlie the pristine cranberry fruit need some years to unwrap themselves. This new 2006 Schindler comes out swinging, its wild berry fruit laced with earthy, barnyard funk. Tastes like an unbridled mix of fruit and soil, spice and barrel, that adds up to a vibrant, earthy, alive Pinot.
When first opened, this seemed a bit shallow, but it blossomed with breathing time into a lovely brambly berry-soaked wine with a full-bodied palate. Streaks of cola and molasses come up also, lengthening the finish and adding texture and detail.
When it becomes a sweet wine, Chardonnay's natural richness shows immensely. This wine has orange and crystallized orange flavors along with intense concentration. A smooth texture is given just the right lift by acidity.
When it comes to sheer deliciousness, this wine nails it. Comprised of 99% Cabernet Sauvig-non, with just a drop of Petit Verdot, it offers wave after- heady wave of black currants and blackberry jam. What truly distinguishes the wine is the overall balance. The tannins are beautiful, the acidity fine and the oak perfectly integrated.
When it comes to sheer extracted power, Zinfandel doesn't get more massive than this. Several things come together. Zin's wild, briary flavors of currants and raisins are here with fantastic concentration, along with notes of licorice, bitter dark chocolate and exotic spices. Howell Mountain's famously hard tannins co-star. The alcohol is high and heady, and discloses itself with jalapeño pepper heat. Not for everyone, but a great evocation of its style.
When it was planted with Bordeaux grapes in 1974, this vineyard was a first in Portugal. It continues to produce great wines, with this is the latest release. It is sophisticated and rich, while also finely structured. Its wood aging lifts the wine and adds spice and density. As with past vintages, this wine needs to age. Drink after 2020.
When O. Fournier tackles a new project, such as Sauvignon Blanc from Leyda, it doesn't mess around. This is an excellent example of Chilean SB with green fruit, citrus and a light touch of capsicum. It's a serious wine that challenges with its peppery crispness offset by grapefruit and green melon. Very nice mouthfeel; shows itself in a couple of waves.
When people ask us, “What's your favorite value wine from Argentina,” the pet answer is this one, Pascual Toso. A former Best Buy of the year, the '07 keeps the streak of great values alive. It's round, balanced and loaded with holes-free berry and cassis aromas and flavors. It is also layered, long and composed.
When people talk about good value Cabs from Chile, this is what they should be referring to. The nose is balanced and offers plenty of clean berry aromas, while the palate is fresh, light in weight and mildly citrusy, with flavors of cassis, plum and raspberry. More snappy and fresh than weighty.
When planted south of its home in the northern Vinho Verde region, Alvarinho reveals a softer side. The acidity in this wine is balanced by the warm yellow fruits and open texture. Drink from 2018.
When Russian River Zinfandel succeeds, and this one does, it marries the variety's wild, feral personality to the valley's perfect terroir to produce distinctive wines. Ottimino's 2005 Von Weidlich is very tannic, but classic in presentation, showing blackberry, currant and intense black pepper aromas and flavors. Might tempt you to cellar it, but it's best over the next year for sheer exuberance.
When some of the greatest Cahors weigh in at 13.5% alcohol, there is no need for this 15.5% monster. It's a shame, because there is much to admire here, with the powerful bitter chocolate and the sweetest berry fruits, a wall of polished concentration. It needs aging for four years at least.
When T-L gets the mix of fruit and oak right, the wines can be deliciously hedonistic. This is a beautiful mix of cedar, vanilla and chocolate with bright boysenberry fruit, wrapped in a richly velvety texture and lingering elegantly on the finish. Drink 2012–2020.
When the alcohol levels are reined in to appropriate levels, this can be one of Australia's top Shiraz. The 2012 is a stunning example of balance and finesse, combining youthful scents of cassis and toasty oak with floral elements. There's ample weight and texture yet silky elegance at the same time, while already complex notes of orange pekoe and black currant are sure to gain even more with five or 10 years of cellaring. Drink 2020–2030.
When the Craig style of extreme ripeness works, it's decadently delicious. When it doesn't, the wines can be tired. This '06 Bordeaux blend hovers in the middle. It's superrich in black currants and milk chocolate, yet has a melted feeling that needs greater tannin-acid structure.
When the slightly reductive and rubbery funk blows off about 10 minutes after opening this appellation blend, then come great aromas of rounded red apple, cut grass and wet rocks. There is a solid boost of acidity to the tip of the sip and a tantalizing structure, with flavors of Granny Smith apple and lime rinds. This is a full-bodied, even aggressive Sauv Blanc.
When this hilly vineyard Cab first came out, it was very good, but quality has slipped over the years. The '04 is perfectly decent in oak-infused blackberry and currant flavors and rich tannins, and it may even improve for a few years.
When this wine was launched in 1987, it was the first in the region to be fermented in wood. That wood aging has continued. This latest release (Sauvignon Blanc, Mauzac and Muscadelle) by Jean-Marc Balaran gives a beautiful wine that is finely balanced between tightly crisp fruit and smoother, creamy spice and wood flavors. The wine is ready to drink.
When two naturally perfumed grapes get together they make an intense wine that has big aromas as well as a series of firm tannins and ripe fruit. Blackberry and spice are shot through with acidity to give a solid wine, firmly structured and fruity at the end.
When vineyards or, at least, land is in the family since the 15th century, it is interesting to taste their wines trending back to “bio.” This Baron de Montfort vineyard is certified organic. The result is fresh while also ripe, this is a lightly wood-tinted wine. It has a dry edge along with blackberry fruits and firm tannins. The acidity at the end acts as a counter-balance. Drink from 2019.
When you're blending barrels from multiple vintages, you'd better make a fine wine. Oso Libre succeeds with this opulent offering from their Abernathy Vineyard. There is leather, mocha, oak smoke, vanilla and deep cherry on the nose, followed by a rich palate of ripe red-berry fruit and a lingering campfire-flavor finish.
Where else in this country can you find $12 Pinot with actual varietal character? Yes, it's quite young, light, lean, tart and even simple, but it does taste like the grape it's made from, and avoids the vegetal and the overtly leathery qualities of many of its rivals. Gentle flavors of raspberry and cherry are supported with juicy acids and hints of spice. This would be a lovely companion to a simple roast chicken.
Where Girard's estate Cab is beautiful now, their Diamond Mountain bottling is one for the cellar. Veteran winemaker Marco DiGiulio has applied his considerable experience, with classic results. The wine is marked by firm tannins that make it astringent and sticky. But underneath all that is an explosion of currant, plum, licorice, chocolate and spicy curry flavor that dazzles. Should easily age for a long time in a proper cellar. Production was a paltry 325 cases, and worth the search.
Whereas many Syrahs from this vintage from the Rocks District show more fruit than usual, this wine is clearly rooted in the stones. It's aromatically expressive with black olive, crushed flowers, mineral, black pepper and an earthy funk. Flavors are silky soft in feel, with a well-balanced mixture of fruit and savory notes that leads to a lingering finish.
Whereas once Ochoa produced some of Navarra's best rosés, lately the wines have been marginal. This is awkward, with aromas of chemicals and rubber gloves. The palate is wan in flavor and feel, while the finish tastes burnt and medicinal.
Whereas other Oz Rieslings can be described as having light chalky notes, this one's got rocks and boulders. It's dry in the mouth, with lime skin and a bold rocky-slatey sort of minerality. Has a slight spritz in the mouth, with star fruit on the finish and melon notes on the nose.
Whether by virtue of vintage or bottle variation, Boudreaux wines seem to gyrate a bit wildly when first released. This new 2005 is no exception. At first sniff it explodes into life, the aromas a mix of herb, spice, tar, smoke, earth and fruit. Flavors are threaded together into a seamless, saturated whole—plum, cassis and cherry liqueur up front, earth and tannin right behind. Some tasters may find it leaning toward the medicinal, but for those who love Rob Newsom's full-speed-ahead style, this is a gorgeous bottle.
Whether due to vintage conditions or simply the result of re-prioritizing the brand, production of the Muleskinner has plummeted. Too bad, as this 100% estate-grown varietal wine is a unique expression of Walla Walla fruit. Here, it's tight, tannic and sharp-toothed with wild, brambly berry fruit in a compact frame. The aromatics promise more, so this could age for a bit before drinking.
Whether it's the biodynamic vineyard or the ripeness of the fruit, this is certainly a rich, full-bodied wine. It's fruity and forward, although it's structure and minerality lendimpressive character. The aftertaste is fruity, fresh and bone dry.
Whether it's the vintage, or simply the evolution of winemaking at this new winery, this reserve Chardonnay is more restrained and structured than past efforts. Still young and compact, it shows succulent green apple and white peach flavors along with toast and butterscotch.
Whether it's the winery's intent or not it is the flavor of the oak barrels that define this wine. The impression is that the vineyard is overcropped. The fruit is light and dilute, with generic fruit flavors. It's perfectly sound, but lacks depth.
Whether it's this single-vineyard Malbec or its partners below (Turcos or Tanos), the characteristics of each are nearly identical: creamy oak, tons of vanilla and milk chocolate, resiny mouthfeels and rich, sweet berry flavors. Pick one or pick them all; they are quasi interchangeable and only time will tell if they show individuality or remain identical triplets.
Whether or not you are inclined toward the grape, this is a must-try bottle. Dry without being austere, it starts with a berry generosity featuring bright, almost hop-driven flavors. It smoothes out with notes of mineral and citrus, and a wonderfully refreshing finish.
Whether or not you consider yourself a fan of varietal Cabernet Franc, this is a wine to explore and to savor. Pure fruit is set amidst generous streaks of herb and earth, framed by firm tannins. The wine opens slowly, and pretty cherry flavors emerge, along with black olive, pencil lead and complex barrel notes.
Whether the cute little dachshund on the label appeals or not, this fresh, intensely fruity Riesling is quite tasty. Supple, sweet white peach and grapefruit penetrate on the palate, accented by the faintest wisp of petrol. Zesty lemon-lime acidity breaks up the unctuousness, leading a bright, moderately long finish. Drink now.
Whether you ask me, God, or the lamp post, anyone who's ever had Australian Riesling will count this among the country's best versions of the variety. On the nose, it yields a little sweetness, plus some grapefruit and passion fruit; after a few minutes in the glass, the passion fruit aromas hold on and are joined by kiwi and other fresh tropical fruit. It's a very dry Riesling, with strong lime and a fresh herbal (perhaps cilantro?) flavors, which makes the mineral foundation seem that much drier and racier. Finishes medium-long with grapefruit and putty flavors. An excellent food wine…or an excellent  last meal in itself.
Whether you call the winery Haras or Haras de Pirque, this Character Cabernet is the real deal. It's earthy and round, with almond, moss, blueberry and boysenberry on the well-oaked bouquet. Comes across juicy and ripe, with layered plum, blackberry and black olive flavors. Smooth on the finish, with a dark, mildly herbal salutation.
Whiffs of Assam tea and honey permeate throughout this bright, bristling spätlese accenting succulent yellow peach and tangerine flavors. It's vibrant and brisk, but finishes on a sweet, meandering marmalade kiss. Stunning already but structured enough to evolve beautifully through at least 2025.
Whiffs of baby powder and blossoms lend a floral, perfumed tone to this pretty Gewürztraminer. It's bold in body and alcohol, but the palate stays bright thanks to fresh grapefruit and tangerine flavors.
Whiffs of balsamic vinegar and dusty minerals lend a savory, rustic tone to ripe black cherry and berry flavors in this full-bodied Syrah. The palate is concentrated, but it's a bit sharp and unrefined. The finish is modest.
Whiffs of balsamic vinegar, leather and spice accent this rustic yet elegant Merlot. Ripe red cherry and raspberry flavors brighten the palate, but complexities of tobacco and riding saddle maintain that deeply savory tone. Coarse, fine-grained tannins and brisk acidity lend structure and gravitas.
Whiffs of bamboo leaf, lime zest and green herb invite and invigorate on this light-bodied, off-dry Riesling. The palate is juicy and concentrated, an easy going yet tangy mix of tangerine, lemon and salty minerality that lingers long through the finish. Proceeds benefit Nashville's homeless people and pets.
Whiffs of barnyard and bramble lend rusticity to this wine, contrasted by fresher, prettier notes of rose petal and blackberry jam. It's a charming Merlot marked by crisp black-fruit flavor, sprightly acidity and dusty, lingering tannins.
Whiffs of barnyard and earth lend a rustic, yet comforting, tone to black cherry and berry aromas on this elegant, Old-World style wine. The palate is crisp with tart black-fruit flavors framed within layers of soft, chalky tannins. It finishes moderately long.
Whiffs of barnyard and leather are prominent on this earthy Cabernet Sauvignon. Full bodied in style with soft, chalky tannins, there's a core of tart blackberry and currant flavors that are crisp on the finish.
Whiffs of berry and pressed apple scent this slightly honeyed sparkling blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It's opulent and floral on the palate with a rich, mouth-clinging mousse that finishes sweetly with a hint of vanilla and biscuit.
Whiffs of black cherry and delicate violets make this full-bodied Long Island Cab Franc wonderfully aromatic. The palate as well is rich with red fruit, dark brambly notes and soft supple tannins, but the tomato leaf flavors that linger throughout are a distraction.
Whiffs of black cherry, rose petal and spice scent this invigoratingly crisp red blend. It's satisfyingly full in body but impeccably balanced, offering taut black-cherry and plum flavors. Aged minimally in oak, there's not a lot of fuss or complication on the palate, but it's delightfully fresh and tasty. Drink now through 2019.
Whiffs of black coffee and wet soil mingle amidst plump black cherry and berry notes on nose of this medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate shows a cooler crisper black-fruit profile, accented by swathes of green leaves and herbs. The finish is a bit tart, lingering on a bite of penetrating tannins.
Whiffs of blackberry and plum preserve hint towards the dense, richly concentrated nature of this boldly fruity wine. It's rustic in style with hints of earth and mulch, and big, grippy tannins that lend bite to the finish.
Whiffs of blossom accent fresh apple aromas on this just off-dry Riesling. The palate is intensely fruity with ripe, rich apricot and white peach flavors yet cut with bristling lime acidity. Refreshing yet deeply satisfying.
Whiffs of blossom and preserved red cherry lend delicate perfume to this exceptionally light-footed Pinot Noir. Tart cranberry and raspberry flavors are refreshing and crisp, but almost ephemeral in concentration. The finish is swift. Drink now.
Whiffs of blossoms accent aromas of fresh apples and dusty minerals on this semi-sweet Riesling. It dances nervously on the palate with pretty white peach and floral notes accented with a streak of puckery lemon-lime acidity. Finishes with a hint of savory dried herbs.
Whiffs of bramble and dried thyme on this semi-sweet Riesling suggest a decidedly savory wine, yet the palate surprises, brimming with sweet stone fruit, melon and red berries. It's a honeyed, almost candied wine, but zesty acidity keeps everything in check. Enjoy now through 2021.
Whiffs of bramble and earth lend a savory tone to fresh red berry and apple flavors in this dry-style rosé. It's brisk with acidity and refreshingly quaffable.
Whiffs of bramble meld into raspberry and white-cherry flavors in this dry white wine made from red Pinot Noir grapes. It's brisk in acidity and spry in mouthfeel but finishes with a luscious cling of ripe red-berry flavor.
Whiffs of brambly raspberry and fresh watermelon introduce this ripe full-bodied rosé made from almost equal proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It's moderately concentrated in red-fruit flavors but boasts bright acidity and a refreshing clean finish.
Whiffs of brioche and biscuit mingle with pressed apple and pear in this sprightly dry Grauburgunder, or Pinot Gris. It's delicate in fruit concentration but its zesty, nimble style is refreshing. Drink now through 2018.
Whiffs of butter and vanilla in the aroma lead to a soft and supple wine that tastes like baking spices and cherries. It's very polished and almost soft in texture.
Whiffs of candle wax and crushed minerals lend depth to the concentrated tangerine and honey flavors in this sun-kissed, citrusy kabinett. It's forward and fruity yet zippy and fresh, showing balanced acidity and a cool, mineral finish.
Whiffs of candle wax and lime zest accent pretty floral notes on this slightly off-dry Riesling. Flavors of yellow cherries and peach are juicy and ripe on the palate, extended through the finish with steely streaks of mineral and acid. It's an elegant wine with power and complexity.
Whiffs of candlestick and honeycomb lend subtlety to zesty white-grapefruit and honeydew flavors in this dry Riesling. While rich, round and supple in mouthfeel, it's balanced squarely by acidity and a pleasant bite of lemon zest.
Whiffs of caramel and honey accent sweet yellow apple and pear in this bright, easy going Riesling. Off dry in style, it offers delicate sweetness balanced by fresh acidity and a rounded, creamy mouthfeel. Drink now.
Whiffs of caramelized sugar and grilled peaches lend a ripe, fruity tone to this otherwise, brash, lean wine. Refreshing on the palate, it's zesty and spry, concluding with a steely, mineral tone.
Whiffs of caramelized sugar and smoked nuts accent aromas of ripe, concentrated peaches and nectarines on this intensely juicy semi-sweet Riesling. It's fruitiness makes it unabashedly approachable, but it's stately in feel with bold mineral and smoky earth tones that linger on the finish.
Whiffs of cedar and baking spices lead to ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors in this well-balanced and easy to appreciate wine. The ample fruit flavors are hard to resist, and the supple, modestly tannic texture is just right.
Whiffs of chalk and slate lend a mineral tone to aromas of honey and white peach on this unctuously sweet, yet nuanced Riesling. Ripe mango and yellow cherry flavors are densely concentrated on the palate, yet lifted by bursts of tangerine acidity. Finishes endlessly long with a lingering spray of blossoms.
Whiffs of cherry Coke and vanilla juxtapose fresh red raspberry perfume on the nose of this fruity, forward Merlot. Sour cherry and berry flavors are juicy and thirst quenching, framed by a fringe of feathery tannins. Drink now to enjoy its fresh, primary flair.
Whiffs of cinnamon, savory spice and cedar accentuate this intensely ripe, almost pulpy bend of Cabernet Franc and Malbec. It's richly deeply concentrated yet anchored by a backbone of pert cassis acidity and fine penetrating tannins. The finish lingers long on a scintillating thread of vanilla spice.
Whiffs of cola and exotic baking spices abound on this rich, caramel-toned blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Noiret grapes aged sherry-style in a solera. It's a unique wine with interesting notes of oxidation and maturation, but a bit clumsy on the palate.
Whiffs of crushed mineral and candle wax lend mineral intensity to crisp, concentrated green plum and honeydew flavors in this semi-dry Riesling. Lime acidity cuts through the midpalate, leading into a long, slightly floral finish. Year after year, it's an exceptional bargain wine of consistent value.
Whiffs of crushed minerals and smoke lend nuance to this dry yet intensely fruity wine full of Meyer lemon, peach and melon flavors. It's brisk and dancing on the palate with a bracing hit of lime acidity that lingers towards a long, steely finish.
Whiffs of crushed slate and smoke add earthy complexity to sweet yellow-peach and pink-grapefruit flavors in this delicate but composed Auslese. Intensely minerally on the palate, it finishes with a fresh, green, floral flair and piercing citrus acidity.
Whiffs of cured meat and dark plum compote entice on the nose of this richly fruity Cabernet Franc. The palate is medium bodied and luscious, with flavors of sweet red plums and cherries. Green, leafy notes and nervy acidity add refreshment and verve.
Whiffs of damp soil and leather lend a rustic, earthy tone to dark cherry and briar notes on this Pinot Noir. The palate is lushly textured, with just a ruffle of delicate tannins.
Whiffs of dark-skinned fruit, blue flowers and game take shape in the glass. The palate is rather diluted and not very expressive, offering subdued hints of black cherry and a note of pepper alongside fleeting tannins.
Whiffs of dusty mineral and pollen lend savory accents to intense tangerine, grapefruit and pineapple flavors in this fresh, fruity Riesling. Just a shade off dry, it's approachable yet elegantly zesty. Drink now–2016.
Whiffs of dusty minerality add depth to pretty yellow-flower and orange notes. It's silken on the palate, with rich flavors of honey, orange peel and black tea. Piercing acidity extends the long, lingering finish.
Whiffs of dusty minerals lend a savory, earthy character to dried fig and pressed apple notes on this sweet Riesling. With flavors of fresh fruit fading into the background, it's showing signs of an approaching maturity. Drink soon.
Whiffs of dusty tobacco box and cedar accent roasted black-cherry and plum flavors in this light-bodied red blend. It's not a deeply concentrated wine but subtle earth and leaf complexities are elegant. The finish is marked by fine velvety tannins.
Whiffs of earth and mushroom against a backdrop of intensely aromatic red cherry, fresh herb and spice hint to the future of this bold, complex Bordeaux blend. The palate is juicy with fruit, but shaded with rustic layers of autumn leaves and wet soil, along with a bracing cranberry acidity. It's quite nice now, but should improve further through 2019.
Whiffs of earth and musk add a dark complexity to sweet peach and blossom aromas on this superconcentrated spätlese. On the palate, unctuous marmalade is laced with saffron and honey, finishing long and with a streak of tangerine acidity and a murmur of astringency.
Whiffs of earth and spring ramps subside, exposing sunny peach and floral notes on this medium-sweet wine. The palate is satisfyingly juicy with honeyed peach and pear flavors, but anchored with a deep, savory complexity. Finishes long with sweet-tart citrus flavors and a murmur of dusty minerals.
Whiffs of exotic spice lend flair to berry and cherry aromas on this sparkling blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Exuberantly pétillant, it's fresh with cranberry  acidity and tart red-plum and cherry flavors.
Whiffs of forest floor and violets lend complexity to this fresh, perfumed wine. Cranberry and tart red-cherry flavors are bracing and tight but yield slowly into a supple, velvet finish. It's subtle and elegant, but also deliciously juicy in character.
Whiffs of freshly cut mint and tarragon are pleasant against a backdrop of lean red fruit on the nose and palate of this Bordeaux blend, but lurking traces of underripe fruit and tomato leaf distract.
Whiffs of freshly pressed apple cider and honey lend a rustic, homey appeal to this brisk off-dry Riesling. It's juicy and thirst quenching with a revitalizing lemonade finish. Drink now through 2019.
Whiffs of freshly pressed apples and peaches entice on this brisk, easy-drinking wine. Refreshing on the palate, it has a hint of minerality that lingers on the finish.
Whiffs of freshly pressed apples are accented by pretty peach and honeysuckle notes on this dry, refreshing Riesling. The palate is lean in style, with subtle stone-fruit flavors that feel brisk and vivacious against a backdrop of pineapple acidity.
Whiffs of gooseberry and tart green plums lend a zesty, green tone to this refreshingly mineral off-dry Riesling. It's a concentrated but spry wine, full of fresh lemon and lime flavors glazed by hints of wax and stony minerality. The finish is persistent, edged by a hint of bitter citrus peel.
Whiffs of green herbs and nuts lend savoriness to fresh apple and pear in this easy-drinking Riesling. Dry in style, it's marked by zesty lemon-lime acidity that leads a brisk, refreshing finish. Drink now through 2018.
Whiffs of hazelnut and raspberry introduce this dry Blanc de Noir, a white wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. Red berry flavors on the palate run a touch ruddy, but vibrant acidity brightens the finish. Drink now.
Whiffs of herbs and green florals persist from start to finish on this elegant off-dry Riesling. The palate is lush with ripe white-peach flavor, but blossomy and bright with a streak of lemon-lime acidity. Finishes long with a delicately lacy sweetness.
Whiffs of honey and caramel entice on this elegant late-disgorged sparkler. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it's delicately pétillant, filling the palate with soft, supple mousse and whispers of biscuit, citrus rind and berry.
Whiffs of honeydew rind and white blossom lend freshness to this light-footed Riesling. It's juicy and sweet with pristine stone fruit and citrus flavors yet revitalizing and spry. Hints of earth and bee pollen lend complexity to the finish.
Whiffs of juicy melon and yellow peach brighten darker notes of potpourri and aged honey on this very pleasant late-harvest Riesling. Quite hefty on the palate with hints of dusty minerals and a sharp, clean acidity.
Whiffs of lanolin and white flowers add freshness to this lavishly honeyed, deliciously fruity Riesling. Its sweet stone-fruit flavors are balanced with a spray of fresh lime acidity, giving it a lingering but refreshing finish.
Whiffs of lanolin, lime and mineral accent the steely, stony flavors in this dry, medium-bodied wine. Concentrated flavors of lime and lemon lend an invigorating briskness to the palate. An ideal summer dinner wine to pair with seafood or fowl.
Whiffs of lavender and lime mark this unusual yet elegant dry Riesling. It's lean and zesty in feel, with tart stone fruit and pear flavors that are layered in waves of crushed minerals and puckering tangerine acidity.
Whiffs of lavender and violet lend a perfumed, floral edge to this stylishly composed wine. Full bodied and supple on the palate, it's moderately concentrated with crisp blackberry and cherry flavors. Penetrating but fine-grained tannins bristle on the finish.
Whiffs of leather and black pepper add complexity to concentrated black-fruit flavors in this bold yet surprisingly finessed Merlot. Tannins are a shade grippy and unripe, but add structure and power.
Whiffs of lemon and honey brighten notes of savory pressed apples on this tart, zesty Riesling. The palate is fruity with elegant tones of fresh peach and apricot, and finishes long with hints of lime and herb on the finish.
Whiffs of lemon and lime are subtly aromatic on this dry, full-bodied wine. The palate is bright and fresh with pear and apple flavors, but elevated by a penetrating sheen of minerality that lingers through the finish.
Whiffs of lemon and lime zest lend verve to waxy white-floral notes on this honey-touched Riesling sparkling. Juicy and a touch sweet with ripe stone-fruit flavors, it's elegantly balanced with a streak of high-pitched acid and soft, delicate bubbles.
Whiffs of lime and lemon zest, lanolin and herbs entice on the nose. Off dry in style, this is chock-full of sweet-tart melon and citrus flavors glazed in a slick of honey, which lingers on the finish
Whiffs of lychee and pink grapefruit accent fresh florals on this slightly off-dry Gewürztraminer. It's plush on the palate with juicy stone-fruit flavors, but also bright with lemony acidity. Finishes elegantly with a murmur of tea-leaf tannins.
Whiffs of minerality, waxy lemon peel and lanolin add complexity to lemon-honey flavors on the palate. It's dainty, with a steely acid backbone, and hints of saffron and spice on the finish. Made from grapes frozen after harvest.
Whiffs of mushroom and autumn leaf add complexity to this Pinot Noir's dried cherry, strawberry and violet aromas. The palate boasts an ample black-cherry flavor and delicate tannins that linger on the finish, melding into a dark chocolate and graphite-tinged note.
Whiffs of nuts and smoke mingle into blackberry and bramble in this dry, slightly herbal wine. Light bodied, it has a refreshingly brisk, cutting mouthfeel that's pleasant.
Whiffs of nuts, dusty mineral and lemon are demure on the nose, but become more concentrated on the palate of this dry white. A blend of Chardonnay, Riesling and Grüner Veltliner, it's more minerally than fruity, but refreshing and brisk.
Whiffs of nuts, pollen and earth are savory on the nose, but the palate is full of pristine lemon and tangerine flavors. Zesty and refreshing, it has a touch of honey to soften the finish.
Whiffs of orange blossom and bramble persist throughout this bright, pretty wine, accenting flavors of fresh white grapefruit and lemon. It's sunny and ripe, yet briskly balanced. The finish is moderately long.
Whiffs of orange blossom and lemon rind lend vibrancy to this rich, luxuriously textured Pinot Gris. Just off dry in style, it bursts with flavors of white peach showered in grapefruit acidity. Luscious and irresistibly clingy, it lingers long on the palate.
Whiffs of orange blossoms add delicate floral flair to sweet marmalade and honey tones on this penetrating dessert Riesling. While creamy and sweet on the tongue, earthy mineral tones and piercing acidity add balance and structure. It's delicious now, but certainly an age-worthy wine that will develop gorgeously over the next two decades at least.
Whiffs of petrol add complexity to lush honeycrisp apple and stone fruit notes on the nose and palate of this off-dry Riesling. Sleek and steely on the midpalate with an edgy lime juice acidity, and the finish is quite dry.
Whiffs of petrol, brine and fennel extend from the nose to the palate, adding a minerally sheen and a savory tone to the ripe peach and nectarine flavors. Lacy and crisp on the palate, it's mouth-smackingly good and easy to keep sipping.
Whiffs of petrol, herb and spice lend savory tones to a palate that's chock full of pristinely ripe grapefruit, peach and nectarine flavors. It's dry in style, but richly textured on the palate, with generous acidity that reverberates on the finish.
Whiffs of pine forest lend a pristine alpine feel to this bold dry Riesling. The palate is concentrated, with sun-streaked tones of pineapple and peach balanced by bristling lemon-lime acidity. The finish is moderately long with a lingering honeycomb note.
Whiffs of pine frond and moss lend a cool, alpine air to the nose of this medium-dry Riesling, but the palate is all lemon drops and sunshine. Juicy citrus flavor is uplifted by a stream of acidity that's invigoratingly fresh.
Whiffs of pine fronds and green melon rinds lend a brisk, tonic feel to this off-dry Riesling. It's racy and fresh with acidity, but wraps up briskly and without a trace.
Whiffs of pine fronds and herbs lend a green tone to this dainty medium-sweet wine. Steely and lean, it's refreshingly quaffable with sweet-tart pineapple and grapefruit flavors that linger nervously on the finish.
Whiffs of pine fronds, smoke and spice lend a woodsy alpine flair to this dry, intensely mineral Riesling. The palate is bracing and bold, juxtaposing crisp greengage plum and lime against crushed minerals and lemon-zest astringency. It's a penetrating, thrilling wine that drinks well now but should only intensify in its mineral complexity through 2023.
Whiffs of pink grapefruit, guava and blossom entice on this dry, yet lush, full-bodied Riesling. The palate is round and ripe with flavors of yellow cherry and peach, but it's slick and steely with minerality too. Finishes long with a line of focused acidity.
Whiffs of pollen and saffron lend shades of nuance to this otherwise perky sun-kissed Kabinett. Sweet yellow peach and apricot flavors are honeyed and plush, but balance out nicely through a crisp, lime-tinged finish. Drink now.
Whiffs of pollen, saffron and spring ramps lend a savory tone to this semi-sweet Riesling. Waxy orange-peel and tangerine flavors brighten the palate, along with a nervy streak of lemon-lime acidity on the finish.
Whiffs of popcorn and smoked nuts lend a savory tone to fresh apple and lemon on this dry Chardonnay. Bold in body and alcohol, it's a bit brawny on the palate. Flavors of pressed apple and pear are brightened with a welcome spritz of lemon acidity.
Whiffs of potpourri florals, orange rind and pressed pears lend a musky tone to this deep golden Gewürztraminer. Soft acidity accentuates its robust body and texture. Bold alcohol lends a sizzle of heat to the finish.
Whiffs of pressed apple intensify on the palate along with shades of smoked nuts, stone and steel in this deeply mineral wine. It's honeyed and slick on entry, yet bristled by a shock of lime acidity that rallies the finish endlessly.
Whiffs of raspberry are accented with bramble and dried herbs on this bold, richly textured Cabernet Franc. Big, bitter tannins frame delicate red fruit flavors, finishing with a kiss of cranberry acidity. It's brawny still, but should meld beautifully from 2016–2020.
Whiffs of red-cheeked mirabelle plum, tart red apple, a touch of earth and vivid tangerine immediately signal pleasure. The absolutely straightlaced, concentrated and dry palate adds hints of quince and blood orange. This is dry, even lean but absolutely powerful with bundled flavor. You can feel heat and energy at the core of this, there is real ripeness and force here, played against absolute, vivid and cleansing freshness. High drama indeed. Let it age a while before playing it out. It will be worth the wait. Drink 2022–2037.
Whiffs of reeds and dusty mineral contrast sharply against sunny, slightly candied citrus and peach flavors on the palate. It's medium sweet with a delicate, dainty composure. Drink now.
Whiffs of ripe black cherries, vanilla and spice, along with delicate hints of soil and barnyard, mark this unusual blend of Saperavi and Sereksiya grapes. Tart black-fruit flavors accented with swathes of fresh herbs are a bit lean on the palate, but the acidity is gentle. It's dry and easy drinking in style with smooth, gentle tannins.
Whiffs of ripe red berries and stone fruit lend a particularly fruity tone to this just off-dry Riesling. While medium bodied in style, sumptuously ripe flavors of peach and nectarine give the palate a distinct plumpness. Wraps up tart and tight with a shower of citrus acidity.
Whiffs of rising bread mingle with bright citrus notes on this full- bodied blanc de noir. Hints of sugar cookie and orange zest are balanced by bright acidity and a soft but exuberant petillance.
Whiffs of saffron and crushed stone lend an earthy tone to the nose, but the palate of this semidry Riesling is all honey and tangerines. Laser-cut acidity lends precision and lift to a moderately long finish. Quaffable and invigorating.
Whiffs of saffron and honey lend a sweet, spicy tone to this off-dry Riesling. It's lusciously ripe on the palate, with juicy white peach and honeydew flavors accented by layers of candle wax and crushed slate. Brisk and bright with acidity, it's effortlessly quaffable, but with refinement and depth.
Whiffs of saffron and spice lend earthen complexity to cutting lime and green plum in this zesty Riesling. Off dry on the palate, it's delicately sheer and spry. Its invigorating style is pleasurable already, but should only meld and improve from now through 2022.
Whiffs of sage and brush lend an herbaceous quality to this vivacious wine. Apple cider and honey tones are bright and sweet, accentuated by puckery lemon-lime acidity.
Whiffs of savory herb and smoke fade into buoyant fruit on the palate of this juicy, tangerine-kissed Riesling. Off-dry in style, it's easygoing and fruit forward, with a finish marked by sweet apricot and citrus flavors. Drink now through 2020.
Whiffs of savory spice and terra-cotta pots lend rusticity to this unusually earthy Chardonnay. Partial fermentation on grape skins gives the palate grip, accentuating softer tones of bruised apple and pear. Brisk acidity lengthens the finish.
Whiffs of sea breeze and oyster shells waft throughout this brisk unoaked Chardonnay. Crisp apple and lemon flavors are delicate in concentration but pristine and refreshing. Drink now through 2019.
Whiffs of sea breeze led a saline tone to fresh apple and pear flavors in this brisk, light-bodied wine. It's crisp and approachable, finishing on slightly dilly, herbal note.
Whiffs of slate and petrol add nuance to white flower and pineapple aromas on this intensely minerally, dry Riesling. The palate is lush and full with ripe nectarine flavor, freshened with a swathe of fresh green herbs on the finish.
Whiffs of slate and river rocks are replaced by ripe juicy melon and tangerine flavors in this zesty delicately textured Riesling. It's a straightforward Kabinett but offers loads of juicy fruity refreshment. The finish is moderately long, marked by a pleasantly waxy mineral undertone. Drink now through 2019.
Whiffs of smoke and crushed stone form a veil over concentrated peach and preserved quince in this remarkably nuanced auslese. It's sweet and juicy on the palate and accented with hints of fresh herb. Earthy flavors lend a dark, savory dimension.
Whiffs of smoke and crushed stone lend a mineral edge to this dry, full-bodied Riesling. The palate is fairly straightforward, but crisp and bright, with grapefruit acidity and a swathe of savory herbs that would match well with herb-accented Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.
Whiffs of smoke and crushed stone on the nose of this off-dry Riesling foretell the intensely mineral nature of its palate. Sheer and spry, it's a delicately honeyed crush of bristling apple, lime and lemon flavors with a lingering mineral finish.
Whiffs of smoke and dark-roast coffee meander pleasantly amid crisp red cherry and berry flavors in this brisk but full-bodied red blend. The palate is lean but elegantly concentrated, finishing on a refreshingly herbal tone.
Whiffs of smoke and dark toast lend savoriness to this otherwise plush plummy Cabernet Sauvignon. Unctuous black plum and berry flavors are rich and yielding on the palate but finish with bold penetrating tannins.
Whiffs of smoke and dust add a savory tone to delicate flavors of apple and honeydew rind on this dry, zesty wine. It's medium bodied on the palate with refreshing lemon-lime acidity.
Whiffs of smoke and earth lend a dusty mineral tone to this lusciously tropical, yet remarkably nuanced, wine. The palate is full of sweet mango and pineapple flavors cut with tart lemon-lime acidity. Finishes long with an elegantly mineral flair.
Whiffs of smoke and earth lend complexity to this light-bodied kabinett. Delicately concentrated yet approachably fruity, it offers sweet-tart mango, peach and tangerine flavors and comes to a clean, elegant finish.
Whiffs of smoke and herbs add complexity to this beautifully floral, fruity wine. Off-dry in style, it's richly concentrated with peach and apricot flavors that reverberate on the palate with bracing lime-toned acidity. The long finish has a bristle of lemon-zest astringency.
Whiffs of smoke and mineral lends complexity to pretty white peach and floral tones on this dainty off-dry Riesling. It's juicy with stone fruit, but maintains that streak of minerality and a clean, focused acidity that leads to a long, dry finish.
Whiffs of smoke and nuts mingle into tart tangerine and lime flavors in this refreshing off-dry Riesling. Juicy and fresh, it's a straightforward, revitalizing sip. Drink now through 2018.
Whiffs of smoke and sea breeze entice on the nose of this amber-hued Georgian wine, which was aged in traditional clay vessels. Earthy on the palate, with hints of orange rind, mushroom and roasted chestnut, it's shockingly tannic for wine made from white grapes—thanks to being exposed to its grape skins during fermentation and maturation. A fascinating accompaniment to almost any kind of cuisine.
Whiffs of smoke and spice add complexity to this remarkably inexpensive, tasty Riesling. Off dry in style, with delicate white peach and apricot flavors, it's brightened by lime acidity and hints of savory herbs. Drink now.
Whiffs of smoke and spice introduce heady aromas of white flower, lychee and stone fruit. The attack is sweet, with flavors of ripe melon and peach candy, but it tapers elegantly to a dry finish that's marked with hints of grape-skin astringency.
Whiffs of smoke and struck flint blow off with aeration, revealing bright orange and lemon peel notes on this off-dry Spätlese. It's broad and a bit luscious on the palate, with intense, dusty minerality and a spray of fresh herbs and lemon-pith notes that lend a bristling astringency.
Whiffs of smoke and struck flint persist from nose to finish, lending dramatic minerality to this otherwise juicy, fruity Riesling. Sunny peach and tangerine flavors are semi-sweet on the palate, but it's a refreshing wine with a honed elegance throughout.
Whiffs of smoke dissipate with aeration on this delicately off-dry Riesling, revealing a lush wine, with yellow peach and nectarine flavors. Roundness on the midpalate is tightened by a shock of citrusy acidity that lingers long on the finish.
Whiffs of smoke lend a savory feel to pressed apple notes on this dry, delicately framed wine. The palate bristles with lemon-lime acidity and finishes long and lean with a hint of wet stones.
Whiffs of smoke, soil and dried herb lend a dark, savory tone to ripe cherry and cassis notes on this rustic Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is juicy with fleshy red-fruit flavors but wrap up tightly in a softly tannic finish.
Whiffs of smoke, spice and nut oil add an alluring maturity to this Riesling. The palate is gorgeously fruity, with loads of concentrated sweet peach, dried apricot and honey flavors, but it's honed and steely, with a long laser-beam finish.
Whiffs of smoke, wet earth and pressed apples seem subtle on the nose of this dainty auslese, belying the shock of sweet tangerine and grapefruit flavors that flood the palate. A nervous fringe of acidity bristles the palate, cutting through streaks of honey and nectar. It's powerful and concentrated, yet ephemeral in its delicacy.
Whiffs of smoked cashew lend a savory tone to this spry yet silken-textured Silvaner. Dry and light bodied, it showcases a vibrant fruit profile of crisp green plum and limes. Drink now through 2021.
Whiffs of smoked nuts and savory dried herbs extend throughout this dry white, accenting fresh lemon and grapefruit flavors. It's not deeply complex or concentrated, but a savory accompaniment to delicate fish or fowl dishes. Drink now.
Whiffs of smoky crushed slate lend some mineral depth to this light-bodied, medium-sweet Riesling. It's a deftly balanced wine offering zippy tangerine, lemon and lime tinged by a reverberating streak of honey.
Whiffs of soft leather and fresh herb set up this dry Cabernet. The scents and flavors of earth and stem are accompanied by a finishing accent of vanilla.
Whiffs of sour Asian plums and briar patch add complexity to the fleshy cherry aromas of this composed, full-bodied wine. Brisk acidity and hints of spice, wet earth and soy sauce lend a sweet and savory tone to it's black-cherry-flavored finish.
Whiffs of spice accent aromas of orange blossom and fresh pears on this dry, richly textured wine. Ripe pineapple and tangerine flavors are unabashedly mouthwatering, but elevated by a piercing mineral focus that drives the finish. Effortless yet elegant in style.
Whiffs of spice and dark toast lend warmth to ripe black cherry aromas on this Syrah-Viognier blend. The palate is brisk with tart cassis and plum flavors wrapped up tightly within layers of mouthfilling tannins.
Whiffs of spice and orange blossom lend an exotic air to this intensely concentrated Riesling that's full of sweet yellow cherry and berry flavors. It dances briskly on the palate, but finishes long and steely, with a lingering minerality.
Whiffs of spice and slate lend complexity to plump, sunny peach and yellow plum flavors in this off-dry Riesling. It's fruity, approachable and easy, yet elegantly balanced.
Whiffs of spice, honeycomb and lanolin meld curiously on the nose of this intensely mineral Riesling. Dry in style, with pretty yellow-cherry flavor, it builds in concentration and complexity as shades of spice, rock and fruit amass against a backdrop of sunny tangerine acidity. Drink now.
Whiffs of stem and smoke blow off with aeration, revealing bright lemon and apple notes on this off-dry Riesling. It's refreshingly brisk with acidity, along with a slightly herbaceous tone that lingers.
Whiffs of struck flint and slate lend minerality to this light-footed dry Riesling. It's an electric wine powered by jolts of lemon-lime acidity but juicy white grapefruit and peach flavors round out the midpalate. Drink now through 2020.
Whiffs of struck flint and smoke meander from the nose to the finish on this dry Riesling, accenting fresh white grapefruit, lemon and lime. Tonic in feel, it's invigorating—zippy refreshment for youthful enjoyment.
Whiffs of sugar cookies and raspberries entice on this consistently pleasing bargain buy. Fruity and floral and a just shade off dry, its an easygoing wine but with a depth beyond what one might presume from its cheeky packaging. Finishes on a lingering white peach note.
Whiffs of sun-burnt slate lend contrast to bright nectarine and citrus peel flavors in this clingy, textured Kabinett. Bristling acidity balances delicate swathes of honey- and nectar-like sweetness that linger on the finish. It's delightfully refreshing, with complexity to linger over.
Whiffs of sunny tangerines are shaded by hints of earth and herb on the nose of this remarkably nuanced spätlese. The palate is juicy and sweet, brimming with ripe yellow-peach and grapefruit flavors, but the long finish is driven again by that slightly savory, dried herb and mineral complexity. Drinks beautifully now but should continue to improve through 2021 and likely beyond.
Whiffs of sweet baking spice, cedar and tobacco entice from nose to finish on this unabashedly fruity and oaky, but enjoyable Cab. Juicy vanilla-cherry cola notes permeate the rich palate, cut by a razor's edge of acidity on the finish.
Whiffs of sweet curry spice and fennel are enticing on the nose of this earthy, rather savory Riesling from Rock Stream. Lean in profile and vibrantly acidic with a squeaky, lemony sheen, it's the perfect pairing for subtly spiced South Indian cuisine.
Whiffs of sweet pastry and sun-kissed nectarines lend richness to this zesty, off-dry Riesling. Sweet and tart, it's lip smackingly juicy, finishing on a deliciously astringent lemon pith note. Drink now through 2017.
Whiffs of sweet white peach and melon agua fresca on this unabashedly fruity Pinot Gris are a delightful reminder of warm summer days. Semidry in style, it's quite rich on the palate, with concentrated fruit flavors accented by a touch of tart lemon. Drink now.
Whiffs of talcum powder and orange blossom perfume this bright, brisk wine. Crisp white peach and melon flavors are penetrating on the palate, finishing on a clean, slightly mineral tone. Drink now through 2017.
Whiffs of tea leaves and tobacco lend earthiness to this slightly savory but exotic appealing rosé. There's plenty of red-cherry and raspberry flavor, but it's slightly muted, embraced in shrouds of Cabernet Franc's brambly leafy character. It's a unique, full-bodied rosé to try over dinner with poultry or other white meats.
Whiffs of toasted coconut, dark herbs and animal combine with plush black cherry on the nose of this full-bodied red. Dornfelder's characteristic ripe, ruddy black fruit flavors are a bit obscured in wood and sweet spice, but it's brisk finish is refreshing. Drink now.
Whiffs of toasted wood and cardamom lend a warm, spicy tone to concentrated black-fruit notes on this boldly tannic, structured Cab. Brisk acidity adds balance to fruit and body, highlighting delicate herb notes on the finish.
Whiffs of turmeric and saffron lend exotic flair to this bracing lemon-lime Riesling. Off-dry in style, it's refreshing and quaffable, yet remarkably complex if you'll give it the time and attention it deserves. Drink now through 2020.
Whiffs of vanilla and strawberry entice on the nose of this full-bodied rosé made from a blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. It's not a deeply concentrated wine but offers delicate shades of crisp red cherry and strawberry along with refreshing acidity.
Whiffs of vanilla bean and caramel accent this peachy blossomy aromatic white. Bold texture and slightly warming alcohol are offset by delicate but fresh peach and apricot flavors. The finish is long and pleasantly spicy.
Whiffs of vanilla, saffron, peach and yellow cherry lend exotic flair to this unctuous yet delicate dessert wine. A blend of Riesling, Scheurebe and Huxelrebe grapes, its unique composition lends plumpness of fruit balanced by zesty acidity and a lingering waxy sheen. It's sure to be a dramatic finish to an elegant dinner event, yet surprisingly affordable.
Whiffs of violet, blackberry and mint set the tone while the no-frills palate offers blackberry, plum and a hint of dark spice. Mellow tannins provide the easygoing framework. Drink soon.
Whiffs of watermelon and spring blossoms abound on the nose of this dry Merlot, vinified as a white wine. Crisp yellow-cherry and citrus flavors are a bit more delicate in concentration on the palate but its vibrant acidity is refreshing.
Whiffs of watermelon, maraschino cherries and bubble gum lend a slightly candied tone to the nose of this Pinot Noir rosé, but the palate is refreshing and zippy. It's dry in style and delicate in concentration, finishing brisk and clean.
Whiffs of white mushroom, saffron and caramel lend complexity to this concentrated elixir of apricots and orange peels. It's honeyed and sweet but vivaciously balanced, glazing the palate in ethereal textures of gossamer and tulle. The caramel finish lingers endlessly.
Whiffs of white peach and yellow cherry intensify on the palate of this punchy, concentrated dry Riesling. It's buoyantly juicy and fruity, full of fresh stone fruit and citrus flavors. Vibrant acidity and deep veins of crushed slate lend refreshment to a long finish. It's an exceptionally balanced wine at a bargain price.
Whiffs of white pepper and fresh young pine trees give nuance to the supple raspberry and wild red-berry fruit aromas on the nose of this bottling. It's light in body and texture once sipped, so throw a chill on it to enjoy the nice anise notes, juniper character and pomegranate backbone.
Whiffs of white pepper and smoke add shades of spice and earth to this delicate off-dry Riesling. Tangy lime acidity brightens fresh peach and melon flavors that linger on the finish alongside a puckering touch of lemon pith.
Whiffs of white tea and tropical fruit perfume this pretty, delicately concentrated Gewürztraminer. While full bodied and moderate in alcohol, it's brisk, almost ethereal style lends grace and refreshment. Drink now through 2018.
Whiffs of wildflowers, fennel and slate combine in this deliciously blossomy, complex wine. While dry in style, it's a touch softer and riper than the HJW or Josef Vineyard bottlings, coating the palate in a supple silk of peach and grapefruit flavors. Powerful and concentrated, it lingers long on the finish. Delicious now, but sure to improve through at least 2023.
Whiffs of wood smoke, black pepper and clove bring an exotic touch to this dry, medium-bodied and tautly balanced wine. It stops just short of full ripeness, but has ample enough blackberry and black olive flavors to taste complete and to reverberate on the finish. It has great varietal character, and will be interesting to age through 2019.
Whiffs of zesty lemon and fresh herbs lend vitality to rich, honeyed peach flavors on this unabashedly juicy, semi-dry Kabinett. An ideal late-summer apéritif at an excellent price, it finishes with a bracing shower of jasmine tea and lime acidity.
While 16 months in French barriques lends roundness of mouthfeel, there's hardly any oak embellishment here. Instead, this wine offers a showcase of perfumed, concentrated black cherry and berry that shines through. It's rich and mouthfilling, yet impeccably structured, with a long, delicately tannic finish.
While 1976 in Germany was a benchmark vintage, known for ripe, intensely flavored Rieslings, this auslese feels frail and faded at nearly 39 years old. Still, it offers a fascinating glimpse at Riesling's intensely mineral character, once the ebullience of its fruit and perfume have faded. Tasting now only a touch off dry, it's intensely dusty, saline and mineral, with a lean, slightly astringent finish.
While 2007 was not the greatest vintage, Roederer managed to produce one of the best wines of the year. It is a great blend of mature yellow fruits, with a pure line of tangy orange zest. Tightly txtured, with bright acidity and steely minerality, it promises long aging. Drink until 2025, and possibly longer.
While 2010 was a great vintage in most of Spain, parts of Bierzo had a mildew problem and thus some wines are less than fully ripe. This seems to be a case in point; it's scratchy on the nose, with a sinewy, drawing mouthfeel that's only partly covered up by oak. Prickly berry and black cherry flavors finish tight, with scraping tannins. Drink now with meat or cheese.
While 2011 has been widely seen as one of the great Port vintages for long-term aging, there are also wines, like this, that are so attractive they can be drunk early. This wine, with its perfumed character and red fruit flavors, is soft, fruity and will be ready to drink from 2016.
While a bit demure in character, this full-bodied, dry Pinot Gris boasts fresh apple, pear and lemon notes. Crisp citrus acidity shines on the finish. Drink now.
While a bit earthy in aroma, this gains more fruit flavors on the palate and wraps them in a soft, smooth texture. Elements of apple and pear make it rich rather than bright.
While a bit lean in concentration, yellow apple, pear and lemon are pristine and ripe on the nose and palate. The mouthfeel is a bit broad and flat but finishes briskly. Drink now.
While a bit quiet on the nose, watermelon, white-peach and raspberry flavors explode on the palate of this lovely dry rosé. It's exuberantly fruity but neatly balanced, offering spry acidity and a long, floral finish.
While a bit restrained in style, this dry easy-going Riesling offers delicate shades of tangerine and yellow-apple flavor augmented by zesty lime and lemon acidity. Crisp texture and a soft bristle of lime zest lend a vibe to the finish.
While a bit savory on the nose, with notes of pressed apple, lemon and stem, this off-dry Gewürztraminer is fresh and bright on the palate, with crisp pear flavor. It's brisk and easy drinking, if not varietally expressive.
While a bit shy in both bouquet and concentration, this cherry-kissed rosé is a refreshing summer sip. A blend of Pinot Noir and Dornfelder, it's a touch tart with a brisk, zippy finish.
While a minuscule amount of this was made, it bears remembering the producer for this is an impressive burst of tangy citrus, lemon and orange. Light and bright, it has a pithy texture of cranberry and raspberry.
While a tad more slender in frame than many of 2015's single-vineyard Kabinetts, this delicate Riesling offers a zesty punch of sweet-tart tangerine and quince flavors. It's irresistibly thirst quenching, finishing on a salty tang of mineral and lime.
While a tad pulpy and overripe on the nose, there's a purity to the dark red fruit on the palate of this Virginia Cab Franc that penetrates amidst notes of fresh green leaves and herbs. Full bodied in style with just a hint of green bramble on the finish.
While a tad savory and earthy on first whiff, this semi-sweet Riesling is surprisingly fruity on the palate, bursting with concentrated grapefruit and tangerine flavors. It's a satisfying sip that's zesty and tart with lemon-lime acidity.
While a tad savory on the nose with aromas of pressed apples and pears, this full-bodied Chardonnay boasts brisk lemony acidity and a straightforward, fresh apple appeal. It finishes briskly, with a hint of honeyed tea.
While a touch brambly on the nose, ripe rich tangerine and yellow plum flavors take the spotlight in this sunny off-dry Riesling. It's plush on the palate but pleasant, accessible and forward. Drink now.
While a touch candied and confected in style, this Cabernet Sauvignon is chock full of ripe, rich black cherry and berry flavors. Plush and juicy, it's best enjoyed in its youth.
While a touch weightier in mouthfeel, Schloss Vollrad's standard-label bottling, this boasts the same peach and pink-grapefruit intensity that's so appealing on the Kabinett. Edged by a lacy fray of sugar, it's lip-smackingly sweet, but irresistably quaffable and neatly balanced by a streak of tangerine acidity. Drink now through 2020.
While aged eight months in oak, this elegantly integrated Chardonnay reveals only the faintest whispers of toast and spice. Thirst quenching and quaffable, the palate highlights crisp peach and apricot against a taut backbone of lemon-line acidity. Enjoy now for it's fresh, youthful flair.
While Alicante Bouschet is probably more at home in the Alentejo, this wine from the coastal Lisboa region still has much of the dark color, solid, dry tannins and intensely juicy wild-berry fruits. It is ready to drink.
While almost bone-dry, this Champagne has intense apple and citrus fruitiness along with a fine texture that's stylish and crisp. Extra bottle age will improve this tight, steely wine and bring out the quality of the fruit. Drink from 2014.
While ample flavors of apricot and rose are made even richer by residual sweetness, the components are abundant but slightly out of focus. Opulent and round, this might find its match in a mature wedge of oozing Munster cheese.
While Argentine Malbecs aren't textbook cellaring wines, this one has enough spirit, tannin and structure to benefit from a few years on its side. Now, it's lush on the nose, with ripe berry, pencil eraser, vanilla and marzipan aromas. The palate is chewy but well built, with dense blackberry, cassis, coconut and chocolate flavors. On the finish, things only intensify. Will be at its best around 2015–2016.
While aromas of smoke, char and plump black cherry lend a sultry tone to the nose, this light-footed wine is surprisingly refreshing on the palate. Brisk and spry, it finishes with an electric jolt of tart red raspberry and cherry acidity.
While aromatically demure and light in body for a Gewürztraminer, this lip-smacking wine offers loads of fresh pineapple, grapefruit and tangerine flavor. It's medium-sweet in style yet refreshingly brisk through a moderately long finish. Drink now through 2018.
While aromatically subdued with delicate notes of lemon, lime and minerals, a streak of honey builds throughout this medium-sweet wine. It adds decadence to sweet, ripe flavors of pear, apple and hibiscus nectar on the palate. It's tasty, bright and penetrating.
While aromatically subdued with just a hint of fruit and floral tones on the nose, this dry rosé is fruity on the palate with rich, fleshy tones of berry and cherry. It's straightforward in style but discloses refreshing astringency on the finish.
While aromatically subdued, this is a refreshing, easy-drinking white blend, with pleasant lemon and apple flavors. A hint of orange peel and a brisk, lime-accented acidity highlight the midpalate. Drink now.
While aromatically subdued, this semidry, late-harvest Riesling is surprisingly exuberant on the palate. Sunny and bright grapefruit and apricot flavors coat the tongue in rich, almost creamy, layers, lingering through a bracing lemon-lime finish.
While at this young stage there may be toasty aromas, there is also intense, perfumed fruit. This complex, distinguished wine is polished, with plenty of bright fruits and acidity.
While barrel-influenced and full-bodied, this unctuous wine remains crisp in edgy acidity, with lean flavors of lemon and grapefruit amidst a deeper, richer background of oak and caramel.
While big and brawny in style, this Pinot still maintains good balance. The aromas resemble toasty, spicy oak, with cranberry and dark cherry notes. The flavors echo the nose and are vivid due to lively acidity and a firm layer of tannins.
While big, ripe and jammy, this wine has firm tannins and a dense texture. There is concentration, but the freshness is missing.
While black plum and cherry flavors seem ruddy and ripe on the nose, the palate of this medium-bodied Bordeaux blend is surprisingly brisk. Lean in style and delicate in concentration, it's a crisp and elegant sip. Firm, fine tannins accentuate the finish.
While blackberry and cherry notes are lush and ripe on the nose, this Finger Lakes Zweigelt is surprisingly elegant on the palate. Sour cherry and tart plum flavors are concentrated and juicy, but lively in feel. The finish is extended by a fringe of fine, polished tannins.
While blossom and melon aromas on this Gewürztraminer are subdued, the palate is a veritable explosion of jasmine, lychee and grapefruit flavors. Silky, rich and mouth-filling, it's balanced neatly by fresh citrus acidity and a bold, phenolic finish.
While bold and rich with a concentrated black fruit character, Korta Katarina's Plavac Mali is also wonderfully expressive with glimmers of rose petal, espresso and chocolate under a spray of raspberry perfume. Big, ripe tannins subside with aeration to a smooth, finely grained texture, finishing on a delicious black cherry and vanilla note.
While bolder in body and a more brambly and earthy than the 2015, Grafen Neipperg's Trollinger is attractive for its crisp sour cherry and plum flavors. Brisk acidity and soft, feathery tannins linger nicely on the finish. Drink now.
While bottled for four years now, this Cabernet is still developing bottle-aged notes. It's rich and jammy with blackberries, blueberries, cherries and mocha, along with a good overlay of oak. It's a pleasant wine to drink over the next few years.
While bountiful in ripe, plush nectarine, peach and melon, this medium-sweet Riesling off sets its sunny side with dazzling acidity. Light on its feet yet deeply penetrating, it's an effortless people pleaser offering balance and satisfaction.
While bright and fresh with fruit, this robust structured rosé offers enough substance to thrive beyond a summer season. Dry and sprightly, it offers crisp raspberry and cherry flavors nuanced by complexities of garrigue and earth. A pleasant bite of tannins elongates the finish.
While bright and tropical on the nose, the intense ripeness of this dry Cabernet Franc rosé lends a caramelized, almost ruddy richness to the palate. Brisk acidity lends balance and structure.
While bright cherry and berry aromatics take a bit of aeration and coaxing to flourish, this four-square wine calibrates juicy primary red fruit with cool touches of menthol and cranberry acidity. It's approachably fruity and framed in soft delicate tannins. Drink now.
While briskly composed, this delicately bubbly blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir envelops the palate with a flurry of delicate foam. Late disgorged, it highlights flavors of pressed apples, pears and the faintest hint of brioche. Drink now.
While Brouilly is one of the lighter of the Beaujolais crus, it still is a step up from Villages, as this ripe wine shows. With weight and some tannins, it promises moderate aging while also offering a delicious cherry profile drinking now.
While buoyantly aromatic with aromas of superripe tropical fruit, honeysuckle and waxy honeycomb, this top-notch ice wine is remarkably elegant in profile. On the palate, concentrated honey and tangerine flavors are matched with steely acidity that reigns the palate in toward a dry, crisp finish.
While buoyantly fruity with notes of ripe peach, apricot and melon, this dry, delicately framed Riesling also has an intensely mineral character. On the palate, a shower of crushed stone and lime  acidity pierces through a long, lingering finish.
While Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, all five red Bordeaux varieties are represented here. Dark in color, a combination of black pepper and black-fruit syrup meets earthy and dry tannins. This structured wine needs time. Cellar through 2020.
While certainly present, apple and stone fruit take a back seat to layers of flint and smoke on this uniquely savory, dry Riesling. Slightly viscous on the palate with a rich, minerally slick, there's a hint of sea salt on the finish making this wine the perfect accompaniment to oysters on the half shell.
While certainly ripe and fruity, this wine is also structured—its generosity tempered by intense acidity, crisp apple-skin notes and a mineral texture. The result is a full wine that needs a little time to soften. Drink from 2014.
While Chardonnay may not be native to Southwest France, the Chenin Blanc is. So this blend of spicy and creamy wine has roots in its terroir. The combination of varieties gives minerality, a ripe green-fruit texture and great acidity. This fruity wine is ready to drink.
While closed on the nose, the palate reveals a spicy spray of white pepper, freshness and a surprisingly robust and concentrated midpalate that very much calls out for food.
While Colombo's Les Abeilles is a more traditional Rhône blend, this offering marries 70% Viognier with 30% Roussanne. The result is a medium-bodied wine hinting at honeyed peaches and tinged with anise that seems to be on a fast-developing course. Drink it over the next several months.
While concentrated black-cherry flavors shine brightly, this herbaceous wine suggests a leaner, more savory expression of Long Island Pinot Noir. Bright acidity and firm tannins maintain a taut, tight feel.
While creamy and voluminous, this full-bodied Chardonnay boasts fresh green plum and apple flavors brightened by sunny lemon acidity. Streaks of vanilla, toast and spice are bold yet well integrated. It finishes moderately long with notes of dried herbs.
While crisp and bracing due to tart apricot and green apple flavors, this wine deepens on the palate as compelling white raspberry, white peach and subtle floral, spicy notes unfold. Markus Niggli added 5% North Carolina-grown Traminette, making it an interesting and seriously delicious bottle to enjoy over a seafood lunch or as an apéritif.
While crisp and bright on the nose with aromas of red cherries swathed with green herbs, this full-bodied Meritage is quite dense and rich on the palate. Green, tomato-leaf notes linger on the palate as well, accenting lush black cherry and berry flavors. It's softly tannic with a tart cranberry note that lingers on the finish.
While crisp black plum and cherry notes are refreshing, persistent green pepper and herb notes lend a lean, slightly vegetal tone. Medium bodied and brisk in composure, the finish is brisk and clean.
While dainty in structure, this light-footed Riesling is intense and concentrated, with ripe stone-fruit and tangerine flavors. Nervy lemon-lime--like acidity and shades of slate and steel add depth and balance.
While dainty in style, this refreshing Riesling is chock full of white-grapefruit flavor accented by a flurry of white florals, lime and lanolin. Concentrated but fresh, the palate bristles with striking acidity and minerality.
While delicate and demure, this light-bodied Pinot Noir rosé revitalizes the palate with a crush of mineral intensity. Whispers of blossom and strawberry peek through a moderately long finish.
While delicate in bouquet for Muskateller, aeration brings out pretty whiffs of blossom, basil and gooseberry in this slightly off-dry white. Overripe, slighty ruddy melon and lychee flavors are a bit clumsy, but bright acidity brightens the finish. Drink now.
While delicate in frame, layers of exotic spice and vanilla amidst creamy peach and tangerine flavors lend flamboyance to this Chardonnay. It's forward and a bit oaky, but finishes vibrantly and briskly.
While delicate on the nose with hints of lemon, white blossom and crushed stones, this dainty spätlese builds in intensity the palate. Juicy sweet peach and apricot flavors are mouthwatering, finishing long on a puckering sweet-tart note.
While delicate peach and berry aromas are subdued on the nose, crisp raspberry flavor exhilarates on the palate of this cutting, light-footed wine. Dry and refreshingly mineral, it's the perfect summer quaffer either with food, or just sipped on the porch.
While delicately concentrated, this dry, full-bodied Pinot Gris offers shades of pristine apricot and peach flavors. Fresh lemon-lime and grapefruit acidity brightens the midpalate and lingers elegantly on the finish.
While delicately framed for its variety, this Gewürztraminer is concentrated with sunny tangerine and peach flavors. Delicate hints of smoke, spice and blossom accent the midpalate and linger on the finish.
While delicious now with flavors of raspberries, cherries, cola and oak, all showered with tart, citrusy acidity, this wine also has a great future. Give it 6–8 years to evolve in the bottle for further complexity.
While demi-sec is the description, this almost as dry as some Brut Champagnes. Its flavors are of walnuts and pear juice along with a fine drive of acidity. This is food Champagne, looking for richer white fish or scallops as a pairing.
While demure and mineral at first whiff, this revitalizing Riesling blossoms on the nose as it aerates, accumulating layers of citrus and floral aromas. Off-dry in style, it boasts ripe yellow-cherry flavor streaked with lime-juice acidity.
While demure on the nose with faint hints of blossom and mineral, the palate of this sprightly kabinett surges with ripe yellow cherry and peach flavors. It's a finely filigreed yet unctuously juicy sip. Drink now through 2020.
While demure on the nose with just hints of yellow peach and spice, this dry, medium-bodied Riesling builds in intensity on the palate with concentrated flavors of tangerine and yellow cherry. A streak of lemon-lime acidity stretches out the finish.
While demure on the nose, the palate of this off-dry Riesling explodes with mouthwatering flavors of tangerine, grapefruit and peach. Kisses of honey and caramel on the midpalate are calibrated neatly by strikes of lemon-lime acidity and a clean, mineral finish. Drink now through 2025 for it's youthful vitality.
While demure on the nose, this dry Riesling offers a palate that is surprisingly bold in both flavor and textural intensity. Bursts of ripe grapefruit and tangerine flavors are accented by a kiss of rose-petal perfume. Zesty orange-peel notes lend a touch of astringency to the finish.
While demure on the nose, this dry, seemingly diminutive Riesling builds in power and concentration on the palate. It's fairly low in alcohol, with an unassuming gradation of flavors ranging from lime to lemon and grapefruit, but its rippling textural expanse lends persistence and gravitas.
While demure on the nose, this light-footed Gewürztraminer is pretty on the palate with delicate lychee and floral notes. Its unusually nervous and shy for it's variety, but refreshingly quaffable.
While demure on the nose, this revitalizing, citrusy rosé offers a firm punch of raspberry and pink-grapefruit flavors. Dry and guzzably thirst-quenching, it's an ideal summer apéritif.
While dense on the palate with bold alcohol and big tannins, crisp black plum and cassis flavors show pristinely on the palate of this Cabernet Sauvignon. Hints of tobacco leaf, bramble and sweet spice lend a lingering warmth to the finish.
While displaying strong herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc flavors, the wine is also rich with fruitiness, offering a delicious series of green fruits followed by pineapple and tropical flavors. It's a wine that's right up front, crisp and bright at the end.
While dry and delicate in body, this intense, penetrating Riesling is lush with sun-drenched peaches. A steely, mineral tone lends gravitas to the midpalate, finishing lean, elegant and bright. Enjoy now for its exuberant youth, but store some away to enjoy as its minerality intensifies from 2020 on.
While dry and impeccably elegant, this buoyantly perfumed Riesling balances subtle notes of honeysuckle and bees wax against a backdrop of luscious, mango, pineapple and peach flavors. The palate is satisfying and supple yet balanced by a sheen of lemon-lime acidity. Finishes long with a savory flick of pollen.
While dry in style and crisply balanced, plump white peaches and apricots shine brightly in this silky Pinot Blanc. It's rich and round with a slightly clingy mouthfeel but not at all cloying or dense. Enjoy now through 2020.
While dry in style and subtle on the nose, this fruity fresh rosé offers loads of concentrated raspberry, melon and peach flavors. Light on its feet and imminently quaffable, it's an irresistible warm-weather sip at an approachable price.
While dry in style, a hint of honey marks the nose of this zesty medium-bodied Riesling. Electric acidity lends a raciness to the palate, highlighting fresh, concentrated flavors of apple, pear and lemon. A kiss of blossom and crushed minerals dance on the finish.
While dry in style, ruddy, slightly overripe notes of melon and peach extend from nose to palate in this Gewürztraminer. Full bodied and soft in mouthfeel, it's brightened by a streak of tangerine acidity on the midpalate. Drink now.
While dry in style, S.A. Prüm's 2005 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Old Vines showcases the staggering ripeness and richness of the vintage with super concentrated flavors of peach preserve and caramel. It's round, rich and textured on the palate, with a lush orange acidity and hints of saffron, fennel and spice that linger on the finish.
While dry in style, sumptuous black cherry and cassis notes lend a plummy feel to this Lemberger. It's an uncomplicated welcoming wine that's a bit plush in mouthfeel but invigorated by bright cranberry acidity on the finish. Drink now.
While dry in style, this bold, intensely concentrated Riesling is rich in notes of sunny peach and honeysuckle. Luscious on the palate, it's cut by a bright line of tangerine acidity that lingers on the finish.
While dry in style, this effusively blossomy, peach-driven Riesling is chock full of ripe, honeyed fruit flavors. Soft tangerine acidity cuts through the lushness on the midpalate, aided by a sheen of minerals and bristling white-tea tannins.
While dry in style, this lithe, delicately framed Riesling packs a punch of ripe, rich tropical fruit. It's blossomy and buoyantly fruity, yet brashly mineral as well. Made using “virgin berries”, uniquely seedless grapes with a tendency towards exuberant aroma and flavor concentration.
While dry in style, this ripe, lushly textured Riesling feels flush with peaches and nectarines glazed in caramelized sugar. It's bold in body, yet briskly acidic, finishing elegantly on a bitter lime-zest note.
While dry in style, this wine is chock full of ripe, rich yellow peach flavor accented with hints of dusty, floral potpourri and mineral tones. Its bold, expansive mouthfeel is penetrating on the palate, but cut with a line of lime acidity that lingers long on the finish. Delicious now, but its sharp edges and dark mineral tones should meld beautifully from 2019–2021.
While dusty mineral, smoke and lemon notes are demure on the nose, the palate of this Weissburgunder, or Pinot Blanc, turn surprisingly honeyed and rich. It's satisfyingly weighty despite moderate alcohol, with delicately creamy flavors evocative of lemon curd. Bright acidity refreshes through a long finish. It's ready to drink now, but could evolve nicely through 2024.
While earthy mineral and fennel pollen notes abound, there's plenty of plump yellow plum, peach and lemon flavor in this luscious Riesling. Full bodied yet crisply balanced, it's a straightforward dry white with wide appeal. Drink now through 2019.
While earthy on the nose, the palate bursts with huge berry flavors on this powerful wine. Bold, ripe fruit is cushioned by tannins and penetrating acidity, lending a dark feel to its structure. Drink from 2015.
While earthy on the nose, the palate of this stainless-steel fermented Tocai offers pretty, primary flavors of apricot, tangerine and rose-petal jam. Luscious in body and texture, it's soft in acidity and finishes with a touch of warmth on the finish.
While easy to grow in Virginia's vintage-variant climate, there still needs to be some work in the cellar for this Southwestern France transplant. The bottling is a variety of flavors and textures that don't quite seem to meld: honeycomb wax, citron and a slight char seem disjointed on the flabby palate.
While ebulliently floral and fruity with notes of orange blossom and white peach, a bracing hit of lemon balm and lime zest make this bright, brisk Grüner Veltliner especially refreshing. It lingers long on the palate with a bristling minerality.
While ebulliently peachy and floral on the nose, savory notes of dried reeds and savory herbs overwhelm the fruit flavors in this dry, light-bodied Riesling. It's crisp and refreshingly composed, but finishes a bit short. Drink now.
While ebulliently perfumed with untamed blossoms and tropical fruit, the palate of this dry, brisk Riesling surprises in its restraint and subtlety. It's refreshingly mineral with a pleasant bite of grapefruit zest on the finish.
While effortlessly quaffable, this pretty, intensely floral off-dry Riesling also has a polished mineral tone throughout. Plush honeydew and yellow cherry notes are delicately sweet, offset by a revitalizing lime finish.
While elegant and a bit restrained, this dry, mineral-laden Sauvignon Blanc boasts crisp white grapefruit and lemon flavors. It's refreshing and brisk, finishing on a delicate green, herbaceous tone.
While elegantly fruity with hints of fresh peach and apple, this dry, mineral-focused Riesling showcases a lean, intensely linear profile. Brisk and revitalizing,it gains texture and astringency on the finish with hints of lanolin and lime pith.
While Equifera, produced by Inniskillin co-founder, Donald Ziraldo, may still be an unfamiliar name, one sip of this Riesling ice wine is proof of its impeccable pedigree. Intensely aromatic with loads of fresh apple, honey and white blossom aromas, it balances luscious sweetness with bracing acidity and a long, undulating floral finish.
While ethereal in structure, there's a seductively penetrating appeal to this light-footed Pinot Noir. Initially pronounced notes of smoke, dried herb and cedar fade into a dusty rose and cherry perfume. Blossom and sage aromas extend into the palate, lending a sultry flair to brisk Maraschino cherry and raspberry flavors. The finish extends on a pleasant bite of bitter almond.
While expressive on the nose with scents of dried cherries, potpourri and spice, the palate on this Pinot Noir is rather savory and austere. Fresh with green herbs and a tart sour-cherry profile, it makes a brisk companion to an array of light meat and game dishes.
While exuberantly floral and fruity on the nose, this dry, full-bodied Riesling is surprisingly lean on the palate. It's briskly structured, showing delicate flavors of tart apple and lemon, and a crisp, biting finish.
While exuberantly floral, this wine feels weightless and breezy on the palate. It's a bit lacking in concentration, but tart grapefruit and pineapple flavors make it refreshing and quaffable.
While exuberantly floral—almost soapy—on the nose, this dry, full-bodied Traminette is surprisingly elegant on the palate with crisp, fresh apple flavors accented with soft Meyer lemon acidity and a blossomy jasmine tea note on the finish.
While exuberantly fruity, almost tropical on the nose, there's a crystalline edge to this dry Riesling that renders it especially refreshing. It's vibrant and light footed, brightened by a lingering honey note on the finish.
While fairly neutral on the nose with aromas of lemon and pressed apple, this off-dry wine is chock full of concentrated yellow-cherry, peach and nectarine flavors. Piercing citrus acidity jolts the palate, driving a long, honey-touched finish. Refreshing and invigorating.
While fairly neutral on the nose with subtle aromas of apple and lemon, this off-dry Riesling is lush and fruity on the palate with flavors of white grapefruit and quince jelly. It's straightforward, but finishes elegantly with a reverberating tea-leaf astringency.
While fairly neutral on the nose, the palate of this dry Riesling boasts bright, sunny citrus notes against a backdrop of apple and pear. It's straightforward in style, but crisp, pleasant drinking.
While fairly subdued on the nose, this dry, rather uncharacteristic Gewürztraminer is refreshingly quaffable, with an abundance of fresh apple and fig flavors marked by snappy tangerine acidity.
While feather light in stature, this semisweet Riesling stuns with intensity. From nose to finish, dark earth tones and luminous stone fruit and cherry flavors meld seamlessly. It's intensely ripe, almost tropical in tone, but an electric tang of acidity and minerality keeps it rooted firmly in the Mosel.
While firmly tannic and structured, this wine shows youth with its concentrated fresh berry flavors and bright acidity. The dry core promises a long-term future, so don't drink before 2016.
While five years from harvest, this bold, penetrating Merlot is still a baby, with a long, promising future ahead. Subtle whiffs of crisp red cherry and mushroom seem quiet on the nose, but the palate is deeply concentrated. Black plum and cherry flavors are penetrating yet deftly grounded by a core of mouth puckering tannin and acidity. Enjoy starting 2020, but should maintain for much longer.
While floral and fruity on the nose with juicy white peach, lemon and orange blossom notes, the palate is all Sauvignon Blanc, full of ripe gooseberries and a green, grassy backdrop. Refreshingly high in acid, yet ends on a soft peach candy note. Pretty remarkable for $7.
While floral notes waver a bit chemically on the nose, the palate on this Michigan Riesling is nicely concentrated, with abundant fresh apple and citrus flavors. Just slightly off-dry in style, it finishes sprightly with cut and focus.
While forward with stonefruit and honey, along with toasty oak and vanilla notes, this is a structured Viognier that's crisp and fresh. Drink with Thai food or buttery lobster.
While forward, plump red-cherry and strawberry notes are buoyant, a deep vein of granite and minerals adds gravitas and complexity to this elegant wine. Fresh cranberry acidity drives a swift finish.
While fresh and fruity in aroma, this feels full bodied, tastes rich but not sweet, and has a smooth texture. Aromas like apples and bananas tone down to milder spicy, baked-apple flavors that stay through the finish.
While fresh and fruity, this wine also has some good concentration and richness. It shows crisp acidity as well as a mineral edge, tangy zest notes and an apple-skin texture. The mouthfeel is bright and edgy still, so it will need a year to fully settle in. Screwcap.
While fresh lemon and lime notes are invigorating, there's a slightly savory tone to this dry Riesling suggesting hints of grain and milled corn. Its spry light-bodied style is thirst quenching, however, and the finish wraps up brisk and clean. Drink now through 2018.
While fresh pink grapefruit and Meyer lemon notes shine brightly on the nose and palate of this off-dry Riesling, there's a touch of savory allium that distracts. It's a juicy easygoing wine with approachably soft, sunny acidity. Drink now.
While full and ripe in style, this wine is also quite dry. It's packed with crisp, youthful fruits, along with an intensely mineral texture that penetrates deep on the palate. Apple and lime juice pierce through the finish. Drink through 2021.
While full bodied and plush, this vineyard-designate, named for original owner Judy Jordan's daughter, brightens the palate with cranberry and rhubarb. It shows high acidity and a leanness of texture that makes the wine seem lighter than it is, a nice mix of power and grace with a lingering hit of spice on the finish.
While gossamer-light in texture, this intensely sun-kissed spätlese builds in fruity, floral exuberance. Tropical mango and melon flavors are almost ruddy in richness but offset by an electric jolt of acidity. The finish is long and persistent, marked by tea leaves and lavender. Drink now through 2020.
While grapefruit and lychee aromas are fresh and clean on the nose, the palate of this full-bodied Gewürztraminer is a bit muted by comparison. It's texturally rich, but flavors suggest pressed apple and pear accented by hints of ginger and spice. Drink now through 2018.
While grassy, herbal aromas dominate the aromas, plenty of white grapefruit comes through on the palate to provide for a crisp, refreshing mouthful. It's medium in weight, with some leafy and citrusy notes on the moderate-length finish.
While having the richness of the vintage, this wine also has all the steely minerality of Chablis. Its acidity goes in a crisp line from the yellow and white fruits to the wood. Still young, give the wine another 3–4 years. Screwcap.
While herbaceous and green on the nose, this almost-dry kabinett is luscious and fruity on the palate, with bursts of white grapefruit and tangerine. It's bold and expansive in mouthfeel, with a brace of citrus pith on the finish.
While herbaceous, this wine also has ripe tropical fruits that bring out a richer, early drinking side. It's bone-dry and crisp, the apricot fruits balanced by intense citrus. Concentrated and very fruity, it can be drunk now.
While hints of earth and bramble on the nose seem a touch savory, the palate of this concentrated semi-dry wine is richly flavored with fresh peach, orange and apricot. It's juicy and fresh, accented by soft orange acidity and a brisk finish. Drink now through 2018 to enjoy its fruity vitality.
While honey and white peach flavors ring pure and sweet, there's a slatey, mineral tone that penetrates deeply in this off-dry Kabinett. It's nervy and brisk, finishing long with zesty lime pith bitterness.
While honeyed peach and quince flavors are juicy and sweet on this delicately framed auslese, distinctly earthy notes of herb and smoke lend a mysteriously savory tone. It bristles on the palate, with sunny lemon acidity.
While I prefer the 2009 for its clarity and freshness, this '08 is no slouching tiger. The nose delivers still-fresh apple and mineral aromas, while the flavor profile leans toward gooseberry, lemon and green melon. Shows some pithy bitterness on the finish, so drink right away or seek out the '09.
While impressive now for its weight and flavor profile, this should evolve well, thanks to its heavy tannins and ample concentration. Right now, there is wet earth and prominent mint on the nose. The palate also picks up spearmint, with sagebrush, licorice and tobacco as well. The tannins emerge at the end of the sip, and will continue to smooth out beyond 2020.
While initially a bit earthy and savory on the nose, this ethereal kabinett abounds in fruity, floral complexities. Cutting and spry, its sweet, tangy citrus and stone-fruit flavors seem to dance nervously on the palate. It's nuanced and minerally, with a deliciously salty finish.
While initially a bit musky and waxy on the nose, this Riesling gains strength on the palate as it offers rich honey and red apple flavors. The lemon-lime-like acidity lingers on the finish.
While initially a bit smoky and closed on the nose, time and aeration reveal the elegant briar and raspberry aromas of this wine. Made predominantly from Cabernet Franc and Merlot, along with smaller proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah, it's concentrated in red berry and plum flavors accented by savory herb and bramble.
While initially a bit smoky, or even slightly sulfurous on the nose, time and air restore prettier notes of berry and cherry to this zesty dry rosé. Sprightly and crisp, it offers a refreshingly breezy finish.
While initially closed, suggesting a bit more bramble than fruit, a brief aeration coaxes pretty strawberry and cherry aromas from this full-bodied rosé. It's dry in style with crisp cutting acidity and a clean finish.
While initially quite closed, aeration reveals pretty floral notes against a backdrop of apple, tangerine and lemon flavors. It's a straightforward but refreshing dry Riesling with wide appeal. Drink now through 2018.
While initially quite closed, time and aeration seem to replace dusty mineral and smoke tones on the nose of this dry rosé with prettier notes of blossom and cherry. It's delicately concentrated but revitalizing and refreshing.
While initially quite lush on the palate, with undulating notes of honey, lanolin and hibiscus nectar, there's an invigorating briskness on the midpalate from the sweet-tart citrus and stone fruit flavors. It's bright with acidity and delicate lacings of sugar, spice and black tea.
While initially quite smoky and nutty on the nose, this light-bodied wine does release prettier notes of cherry and raspberry with some aeration. Soft acidity lends heaviness to the plate. The finish is brisk and clean.
While initially subdued on the nose, this zesty citrus-kissed Riesling offers loads of lemon and lime vitality. It's crisp and light bodied with a finish that's dry and mineral.
While initially the fruit seems tight and stalky, there is also a rich layer of spice, black currant and balanced wood flavors. Acidity is prominent, but it fits well into the fruit. For medium-term aging.
While intense aromas of mango, honey and blossom are appealing, this unusually structured Gewürztraminer seems at the same time quite tart and caramelized. It's lithe and lean with moderate concentration of peach and tangerine flavors.
While intensely aromatic of honey and marmalade, this powerfully structured wine is dry in style. Rich, round and expansive on the palate, with intense flavors of tart stone fruit and lemon, it's anchored by a steely, mineraly backbone. It finishes long and with impeccable focus.
While intensely floral from nose to finish, this subtly nuanced Riesling has a more savory side as well, offsetting stark lemon, tangerine and lime flavors against wet stone and clay. It's ethereal and light on the palate, but finishes boldly with a lingering murmur of astringency.
While intensely fruity, a deep vein of crushed-slate minerality extends from nose to finish in this lithe Kabinett. Lip-smacking honey and peach flavors penetrate through the palate, electrified by a laser of lemon-lime acidity. Finishes remarkably dry and fresh.
While intensely mineral and strikingly brisk with acidity, this delicate dry Riesing also boasts pretty notes of blossom, white peach and pear. It's a keenly four-square wine that's zingy, fresh and endlessly quaffable.
While intensely mineral on the nose, redolent of crushed rock and smoke, the palate of this Sauvignon Blanc is remarkably fruity, bursting with fresh peach and apricot flavors. It's brisk, straightforward and primary in style, yet undeniably refreshing and quaffable.
While intensely mineral on the nose, wafting of struck flint and crushed slate, this plucky, light-footed Riesling boasts a decadently juicy, fruity palate. Honeyed tones of peach and nectarine are sumptuously sweet yet balanced neatly by a piercing strike of acidity. The finish is lavishly persistent.
While intensely peachy and floral, this plump, fruity Gewürztraminer has a lingering trace of earthiness that distracts. Nonetheless, it's buoyant and juicy on the palate, with sunny tangerine acidity that lingers refreshingly.
While intensely ripe on the nose, this beautifully balanced Bordeaux-style blend offsets luscious fruit with dazzling acidity and a rigid frame of fine tannins. Black plum, cherry and currant flavors are succulent but pristine, penetrating deeply through a long finish. Drinks well now but should improve through 2021.
While intensely ripe on the nose, with scents of white peach, tangerine and quince, this is a dry, remarkably savory wine. It's dense and bold in body, but brightened by fresh herbal tones and a zesty lemon-pith finish.
While intensely youthful on the nose with aromas of fresh red cherries and blossom, the wine seems to build in depth and maturity on the palate. Fresh red fruit turns deeper and darker, and pretty floral notes pick up hints of potpourri and fall foliage. Elegant yet seductive, it is delicious now, but should mature beautifully through 2019–2021.
While it's dry and acidic, it has a coarseness that's unforgiving.
While it's firmly tannic, the fruit still shows through the structure. It has taut flavors of black plum and currant; angular now, but has some good aging potential.
While it's fresh and creamy, as any Vinho Verde should be, there's something extra to this smooth wine. The tangy acidity is balanced by melon and apple flavors to give the wine some richness. Drink now.
While it's hard to go wrong with any of Fritz Haag's gorgeously sunny 2012 auslesen, the goldkapsels truly exemplify the pristine lusciousness of stone fruit and mango. Lemon acidity sings through the midpalate, highlighting nuanced shades of spice, mineral and earth that linger on the finish. Decadent yet impeccably balanced.
While it's not complex this is certainly well composed. It opens with subtle aromas of yellow flower and orchard fruit while the light, easygoing palate offers pear and citrus. Crisp acidity gives it a clean, refreshing finish.
While it's not for everyone, this is a great expression of Rosenblum-style Rockpile Zin. It's a big, lusty glass of red wine, warm and heady, with extraordinarily ripe berry, currant and mocha flavors.
While it's on the soft, fruity side, this single-vineyard Syrah has the depth and complexity of a fine wine. Showing black and red currant, cola, plum, sandalwood and spice flavors, it's boosted by refined tannins and a proper dryness. Ready to drink now.
While it's rich, this beautiful dry wine also offers considerable freshness. Acidity cuts easily through the ripe white fruit, pear and red apples, allowing room for spice that provides a contrasting aftertaste.
While it certainly has bright acidity and green fruit flavors, this is quite creamy in texture for an Aligoté, its angles softened and rounded. The finale is fresh, with a more citrus character.
While it does have a light texture, this wine is also rich. With intense red-currant fruit, totally crisp acidity and a fine citrus lift, the wine is both fruity and zesty. It will be best drunk from 2018.
While it does have a mint flavor, this spicy blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and several other varieties is a fine wine to drink now with pizzas, chili and hamburgers.
While it does have a rounded texture, the dominant character here is a black currant and pink grapefruit herbaceousness. The wine has richness and good concentration along with tight acidity on the finish.
While it does have a tannic structure, this wine is characterized by its ripe fruits, rich texture and softness. Strong plum jelly and spice are nicely combined to give an in-the-mouth fruitiness that's freshened by the final acidity. Drink this wine from 2017.
While it does have some of the typical Volnay plumpness, this is a light wine that offers sweet strawberry fruits and a strand of acidity. At the end, red currant acidity delivers an attractive fresh aftertaste. Drink from 2016.
While it does have the structure of a Pommard, this is also a ripe, rounded wine. Its sweet red fruits surround the firm tannins offering richness. A wine that will offer sold pleasure in 3–4 years.
While it does not have strong intensity, this is a wine that packs pleasure. It is fruity and rounded, with plenty of green apple and white fruit flavors. There is an attractive tang of citrus that adds lift to the finish. Enjoy soon.
While it doesn't have huge power, this wine does have many great attributes. It is smoothly ripe, its open structure a fine reflection of the elegant style, edged with minerality. The acidity is pure, not too dominant, but lifting the generous fruit and final dry character.
While it feels rich and round, this is also a wine with a crisp side to it. Acidity cuts through ripe pear, apricot and lychee flavors, giving a decidedly crisp balance. It's a wine that is already ready to drink. Screwcap.
While it has all the structure of Gevrey-Chambertin, it also has the richness of the vintage. This strikes a healthy balance between the two, creating a powerful wine that's full of black fruits and sweet tannins, with a firm, dry core. Age for 5–6 years.
While it has lost its primary fruit, this wine has gained richness, toastiness and structure. Caramel and almond flavors stand out from the firm texture and the concentration. It is a complex wine that has weight and ripeness. Drink now.
While it has some attractive apple fruits, the wine misses out on the real minerality and texture of Pouilly Fuissé. It's a wine hidden behind net drapes, indistinct.
While it has sufficient tannin, the wine also has a feeling of generous black currant and berry fruits. It's dry with considerable concentration, but it's future looks good, so keep for 5–6 years.
While it is certainly dry, this Champagne also has a rich, toasty character, with crisp acidity. It is tight and minerally, reveling in ripe fruit flavors. The wine balances some toasty age with delicious, citrus fruit.
While it is certainly on the sweet side, this bottling, with its lively mousse and strawberry flavors, is a definite step up from previous tastings. It has weight but also freshness.
While it is certainly rich, this wine has a drying core of botrytis that dominates at the moment. There's remarkable weight and concentration on the palate, but brisk lemon flavors add vibrancy and cut. It is obviously a wine to age, so don't drink before 2018.
While it is certainly sweet, this also shows a fine, delicate texture, with red currant, plum and honey flavors. This is a wine to drink by itself after a meal.
While it is dry, this wine is so rich that it has a honeyed, sweet character. It is very full, ripe, full of grapefruit, white stone fruits and tight Meyer lemon. It is still in its youthful fruity phase and needs to age. Drink from 2018.
While it is light for the structured 2010s, this wine has attractive red fruit flavors and soft tannins. With its gentle structure and good fruity acidity, it's ready soon. Drink from 2015.
While it is not a powerful wine, it is elegant, balanced, with density of flavor and tannns, freshened by fruit acidity and red cherry and black currant fruits. Like many wines from 2007, this is for the medium term, and can even be drunk now.
While it is not a premier cru, this wine conveys many of the precise red-fruit flavors of the Les Marconnets vineyard just below on the slope. It is finely perfumed, with the softness typical of the northern Beaune vineyards. Vivid strawberry and red-cherry fruits are already delicious and ready to drink.
While it is rich and powerful, this wine also has a great presence of fresh fruits, lifted by red cherries and acidity. The texture offers red apple skins and some tight tannins.
While it is rich, the wine is more dominated by the minerality and structure of Chablis. White fruits, melon and pear come through, with a citric edge and firm toast. It is taut and tense, ready to age.
While it is still young, the wine is showing great fruit and soft tannins. Juicy black cherries are ripe and full, a sign of the fine vintage. With the acidity and the dry core, the wine should age. Drink from 2018.
While it is still young, this is a complex wine, with black currant notes supported by firm tannins. It shows wood aging, fresh acidity and a solid core of structure that promises good aging. Drink from 2015.
While it is structured and solid, the wine also has rich black fruits that are surrounded by the firm, dry tannins. There is a base of dark chocolate, wood spice and a brooding final quality to the weighty finish.
While it may not be as spicy as some Alsace Gewürztraminer, this definitely shows soft, lychee qualities to go with its soft texture and light acidity. Its delicacy gives it the chance to be an apéritif wine as well as one for food.
While it misses out on the firmer side of the Morgon cru, this is a robust ripe wine. It has attractive red-cherry fruit and juicy acidity. The structure will allow it to age for a few more months, so drink from late 2017.
While it obviously has a relatively high dosage (added sweetness), this is still a fresh and balanced wine, with a mineral edge to go with the green apple flavors. The finish is ripe and soft.
While it shares the same electricity and mineral finesse of Bürklin-Wolf's other 2014 Premier Cru (labeled P.C.) wines, the Rechbächel has an intensely fruity, almost tropical appeal. It's concentrated and ripe, but with cutting white grapefruit and tangerine acidity leading a long, focused finish. Drink now through 2025.
While it shares the same floral overtones, the 2010 Bedell Cabernet Franc is a marked contrast to the demure 2011 vintage. This one is a bold, concentrated powerhouse of red cherry flavor, with a rich, lavish texture and a dark granite minerality that's penetrating to the finish. Equally good, but fascinating side-by-side.
While it shares the same ripe rich fruit intensity of Paumanok's more expensive reds, there's a distinctly green tone to the Festival marked by shades of herb, bramble and green pepper. It's approachably juicy, yet complex, with pert acidity and a tight frame of tannins. Drink now through 2021.
While it shows modest cherry pie filling flavors, it's simple and sweet, with a harshness from acidity and tannins.
While it starts austerely, this wine is obviously going to be a powerhouse of red plum and other ripe red fruits. The aromas are smoky, and this also shows in the palate as the wine fills with juicy richness, finishing with tight acidity. Give it 5–10 years.
While it was not a generally declared vintage, this year has produced some fine single-quinta vintages. This wine has a fine tannic structure behind the rich damson and dried fruit flavors. Spice and acidity add to the complexity of this dense wine that will certainly need to age. Drink from 2023.
While its briary, red berried fruit expression is pristine, there's an Old-World anchor to this Cabernet Franc. It's brambly and a bit herbal, but bright and fresh, framed firmly by tart acidity and velvety tannins. The palate is supple and silky with a long, persistent finish. Drinks well now but should improve till at least 2021.
While its forward, fruity aromas are inviting, intensely candied notes of cherry cough syrup and strawberry jello lend a confected feel to this Syrah. The palate is sharp and thin, with a modest finish.
While its nose suggests zesty green herbs and lime peel, the palate of this delightfully brisk Weissburgunder, or Pinot Blanc, is sunny with fruit. Crisp nectarine and tangerine flavors are concentrated and fresh, marked by crush ed mineral notes on the finish. Drink now through 2021.
While jasmine and tropical fruit aromas show nice concentration on the nose, there's a bit of a chemical undertone. The weighty palate in punchy in character, with Juicy Fruit gum, banana and canned peach flavors.
While juicy and ripe with red fruit, this Zin lays a little flat on the palate. A handful of Sangiovese is blended in.
While juicy Merlot dominates this wine, the structure comes from the perfumed Cabernet Sauvignon that brings out the tannins, while the fruit is packed with blackberry flavors. This ripe wine needs to develop over the next few years. Drink from 2017.
While juicy white grapefruit and gooseberry notes are concentrated on this easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc, grassy, stemmy herb and leaf tones are prominent from nose to finish. The palate is refreshing with bristling lemon and lime acidity.
While Jurançon wines are sweet, it is the freshness that is beautiful. So there are honey and orange marmalade flavors to give the sweetness and hint at botrytis. Against that is a poised, ethereal acidity and citrus tang. Together they make a beautiful wine that can age. Drink now, but better from 2018.
While just a touch ripe on the nose, this rosé is wonderfully dry with a bright red plum and cherry compote palate accented by deep, stony minerality. Full bodied, yet pleasantly astringent on the finish, it's the perfect accompaniment to seafood.
While labeled Extra Brut, this wine is on the sweeter side of this description. An attractive tang of lemon zest goes with the smooth creamed-apple flavors. The aftertaste is fresh and fruity, ready to drink.
While lacking the vibrant fruit typical of the variety, there are some attractive hay and honey scents on nose. The full-bodied and soft-textured palate is cloaked in vanilla, which lingers on the finish.
While lavishly oaky and luscious in feel, this barrel-fermented Chardonnay maintains balance and levity. It's a ripe, plump wine, but fresh in acidity and delicate apple, lemon and spice flavors. A kiss of vanilla lingers nicely on the finish.
While lean in style, this semi-sweet Riesling juxtaposes sunny tangerine acidity against a core of juicy apple and pear flavors. It's not a deeply complex wine but enjoyable for its fresh and fruity exuberance and delicate honey finish. Drink now through 2019.
While lemony-fresh with a streak of crushed-stone minerality, this medium-bodied white lacks the exuberance and spice expected of Gewürztraminer. It's refreshing and pleasing nonetheless, with a spray of lingering white blossom perfume on the finish.
While light-bodied, gentle and intricate, this wine offers plenty of flavor nuances. Cranberry and herb tea aromas mark the nose, while the mouthfeel is at once soothing and tangy, with mulled cherry and clove aromas that slowly emerge and persist on the finish. It's a treat to sip and savor.
While light coral in color, this unusually rich and mouth-filling wine is flavorful, dry and smooth-textured. It smells like watermelon and tastes like ruby grapefruit with just a hint of maple syrup. It is hefty in flavor while light in body, and will be perfect with ham or prosciutto.
While light in body, this lemony spätlese has a textural broadness. Its sweet tangerine and quince flavors are neatly offset by a streak of bright acidity and lingering earth notes. Drink now through 2022.
While light in color, this rich wine is full of both fruit and tannin. It has real Pinot Noir cherry and strawberry flavors, lightened by cool acidity. The structure comes from the rich wood flavors and the complex tannins. Drink from 2015.
While light in color, this wine is flavorful and easy to enjoy. Its smoothly textured, medium-bodied palate carries generous red cherry and plum flavors.
While lithe and delicate in mouthfeel, this dazzling wine packs a punch with sun-kissed peach and apricot flavors. High-toned lime notes cut through the palate like a razor, leading a long, honey-kissed finish. Impeccably balanced, it's full of vibe and refreshment.
While lithe on the nose, with understated red-fruit aromas, this shows a palate that's nicely concentrated with crisp red-cherry and plum flavors, laced with an invigorating shower of minerality and acidity.
While low in alcohol and austere in dryness, there's a remarkable richness of texture that lends an impression of volume and density on the palate. Brisk notes of lemon and tart tangerine shine brightly, but are juxtaposed by an intensely stony, mineral finish. Drink now through 2020.
While lower-priced than some of the Loring single-vineyard wines, this offers compelling characteristics and complexity. It smells like red and black cherries, black tea and cardamom, and tastes ripe but tangy. Full bodied and very flavorful, it stays well balanced by firm acidity and fine tannins.
While luscious on the nose with ample notes of honey and orange blossoms, this Riesling is surprising dainty on the palate. Sheer and steely with tart, slightly underripe stonefruit flavors, it finishes on a spicy white pepper note.
While lush and ripe on the nose, with aromas of stone fruit and citrus, this dry Riesling is remarkably lean and steely on the palate. The lemon-lime acidity is searing, but highlights an intense minerality that lingers through the finish.
While Marsannay is mainly planted with Pinot Noir, there are small vineyards of Chardonnay, like this six-acre parcel. It has produced a fruity, ripe wine with a touch of minerality, along with wood and crisp acidity. Light, fruity and ready to drink soon.
While maturing well, this wine still promises a considerable future. It is sweet and rich, honeyed almost while allowing room for a touch of dry spice and pepper. It's a ripe wine with depth of flavor and density. Drink from 2016.
While Merlot makes up the majority of this blend, the Cabernet Franc seems in the lead, with aromas of leafy green herbs, bell pepper, flowers and savory notes. The feel is silky and polished, showing richness and deftness with a finish that lingers. Some warmth holds it back.
While more herbal in character, this wine also carries grapefruit, lemon and quince flavors. It is fresh with a steely mineral character that adds some interest. Drink now.
While more mineral than fruit-forward on the nose, this pretty, dry Riesling is quite yielding, suggesting ripe, rich pink grapefruit and white peach on the palate. It's feather light but silky in texture, balanced by a strike of lemon acidity that lingers on the finish.
While more mineral than fruity, this briskly structured dry Riesling offers loads of mouthwatering refreshment. Zesty lime and lemon-pith flavors awaken the midpalate, leading to a long, stony finish. Drink now through 2021.
While most of this wine was fermented in French oak, a small percentage was held back in stainless steel. It finds a happy middle ground between creamy oak, even a touch of reduction, and a brightness of green apple and Jolly Rancher. It offers medium-bodied richness.
While muted on the nose, this refreshing off-dry Riesling offers concentrated tangerine and yellow peach flavors. Light in body with a spry, zesty mouthfeel, it finishes brisk and clean. Enjoy now.
While muted on the nose, this surprisingly expressive Pinot Noir balances elegant black fruit against layers of fallen leaves and floral potpourri. It's a delicate, soft-spoken wine but memorable, finishing on feathery-soft tannins.
While Négrette dominates this blend, the addition of Cabernet and Syrah gives an extra ripe complexity, while adding sinews to the structure. Red berry fruits and a fresh layer of acidity are added to the oak from the barrique aging. Drink from 2016.
While Neil Ellis's winery is in Stellenbosch, he gets his Chardonnay for this wine from the cooler region of Elgin. It has sweet, almost tropical-fruit aromas, followed through with spicy, creamy, wood flavors and ripe, generous acidity. Despite its richness, it also has delicacy, as much in the finely judged use of wood as in the clean, elegant fruit.
While nose and palate shine with beautifully precise pear, there is a core of wonderfully pure mandarin. There are hints of zesty grapefruit spice but the concentrated purity of fruit makes this stand out. Tangy citrus means the ripeness is harnessed into a linear streamlined direction that gives this drive and lively energy. This is moreish and impressive.
While not a declared vintage Port year, it did produce some impressive old tawnies, like this. It is such a balanced wine, fresh with ripe marmalade, raisin and old wood flavors. It has a wonderful milk chocolate aftertaste that is contrasted with its still-fresh acidity. Drink now.
While not a generally declared year, 2012 has produced some excellent single-quinta wines. This full, ripe wine was fermented in open stone tanks and then kept in old wood for 12 months. It is richly structured with fine black fruit and a powerful aftertaste. Age this until 2024.
While not a mind-blower, this fresh Verdejo is all that it should be. The nose offers a just-right blend of minerally crispness along with apple, melon and citrus aromas. The palate is properly tangy, while flavors of orange and melon finish solid and zesty.
While not as blossomy in perfume as previous vintages, there's plenty of fresh watermelon and sour-cherry refreshment here. Exceptionally light bodied and dry, it's an invigoratingly crisp summer sip. The finish is brisk but crystalline and mineral.
While not as full-bodied and complex as the winery's Les Pionniers bottling, their Tradition is considerably less expensive. Like Pionniers, it's unoaked and bright with acidity, with savory citrus and tropical fruit, green grass, honey and spice flavors.
While not in the official canon of Grand Crus, La Moutonne is definitely in grand cru territory, a parcel that is divided between Les Preuses and Vaudésir. The 2012 is very structured, dense and textured, with a strongly tannic character packed with minerality. Time will bring out its fruit and richness. Drink from 2019.
While not Millbrook's premium Chardonnay, this bottling offers a surprising amount of elegance amidst a lavishly ripe, fruity sip. It's ebulliently peachy with a decadent creamsicle twist, offset by crisp acidity and a firm, focused finish.
While not overly intense in grapefruit, gooseberry and pea-shoot aromas, the palate brings a bit more frivolity into play, with guava, peach and flint. There's some weight behind this wine, which takes it beyond a simple apéritif.
While not smelling much like typical Viognier, this southern Oregon offering is round, sweet and ripe, with honey and apple flavors. The finish is sweet and honeyed, and also quite short. A chunky, full-bodied mouthfeel is the most typical characteristic of the wine.
While not strictly part of the Haut-Médoc Château Cambon la Pelouse, this small parcel in Margaux is under the same ownership and vinification. The wine has weight, some solid fruit, with the wood adding polish but not dominating. A well-structured wine for medium-term aging.
While not the best Keuka Spring has to offer, this Merlot-dominated Bordeaux blend offers up some pleasant fruit compote notes and a crisp finish. The tannins are a bit grainy, however and the confected fruit flavors are on the simple side. Serve with steak, hamburgers.
While not the most structured vintage of Beaucastel, this is a full-bodied, creamy-textured rendering of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Finely detailed notes of plum, thyme and leather mark the nose, while the flavors are ripe almost to the point of jamminess. Drink now–2025.
While not very full bodied, this tastes rich and heavy like fruit syrup. Pear, apple and banana flavors coat the mouth with a touch of sweetness and a rounded texture.
While oak can commonly overwhelm Chardonnay, this is a perfect example of an appropriate balance. Toasted notes of almond and peach pit intertwine with red apple and underripe pear; crisp acidity shines through on the finish.
While oaky and smoky, this Chardonnay is packed with fleshy tropical fruit A slightly bracing feel on the finish gives it some texture. It should pair well with weekday meals or as a pass-around wine at parties.
While obviously not a “cult” wine, this full-bodied bottling has just what the varietal should offer in terms of ripe fruit, spice, a firm and moderately tannic texture, and a mouthfilling presence. Its strengths lie in good balance, tempting layers of flavor and a lingering finish.
While off-dry in style, there's a savory apple tone throughout, accented by hints of lime zest and herb. The palate boasts juicy pink grapefruit flavor, along with a hint of lanolin that lingers on the finish.
While often ignored in favor of its more famous countryman (Riesling), Silvaner offers a freshness and purity of green fruit and herb that's delightful. This dry, yet lusciously full-bodied bottling is particularly rich in texture, glimmering with ripe green plums and yellow cherries. Fresh lime acidity brightens the midpalate leading a long, slightly chalky finish.
While on the light side, this is an attractive, fruity wine. It has a creamy, soft feel to it with fresh pear flavors, as well as a touch of vanilla from the gentle wood aging. It's ready to drink now, but will be better in a year.
While outwardly this wine is generous and opulent with great juicy sweetness, the core is structured and powerful. The wine is concentrated and complex, with dark tannins and a brooding, dense texture. This is a wine with a long-lived future.
While packed with ripe berry and cherry flavors, this wine is also well-balanced due to good acidity and firm tannins that buoy the full flavors and give a lively tension in the mouth. Complementary spicy accents from oak come out with each sip.
While perfumed on the nose with aromas of rose petal and peach, a vein of green lingers throughout this blend of Muscat and Malvasia. It's dry and medium bodied in style, but delicately concentrated with soft, yielding acidity.
While Petit Manseng is famed for producing late-harvest dessert wines in southwestern France, this bottling is a table wine, featuring a slight edge of sweetness and a richly textured palate. It's intense and exotic, with tropical notes of papaya, pineapple and apricot preserve, offset by a nutty edge.
While Petit Manseng is more often made into a sweet wine, its natural richness does lend itself to dry wine as well. Here it gives an intensely perfumed wine, floral and spicy together. Crisp apples and kiwis are made richer with a tincture of honey. Drink this wine from 2018.
While Petit Verdot is often relegated to being a minor blending component, it makes up a full 51% of this wine with the balance Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. High-toned, locked-up aromas of herbs, flowers, tobacco and cocoa are followed by fruit flavors backed by lively acids and firm but well-integrated tannins.
While plush blackberry, dried fig and cherry aromas are rich and ripe on the nose, this voluptuous Cab is surprisingly structured and taut on the palate. It's rich and luscious in red fruit yet firmly anchored with cranberry acidity and a fine firm fringe of tannins. It's amply lavished in vanilla, spice and toast, but wears these embellishments well.
While predominantly Chardonnay, this zany blend of Finger Lakes and North Fork fruit incorporates proportions of everything from Riesling to Vidal Blanc and Viognier. Dry in style with a brisk lemony backbone, it offers loads of mineral vitality and refreshment. Drink now through 2018.
While pressed apple notes seem savory on the nose, the palate of this dry Seyval Blanc is surprisingly fresh boasting a delicate honeydew flavor. There's not a lot of concentration or power, but it's pleasant and crisp, with lingering lemon-lime acidity.
While pulpy and ripe on the nose with aromas of blackberry and cherry compote, this Cabernet Franc runs towards the savory side on the palate. Bold in body and alcohol, it's rich with red fruit, but has a musty, earthen tone that persists through the finish.
While quiet on the nose, the palate of this semi-sweet Riesling screams for attention with its buoyant fruit salad of peach, maraschino cherry and tangerine flavors. It's a fun, unabashedly fruity wine to enjoy young.
While quite earthy and smoky on the nose, this off-dry Riesling is pleasantly fruity on the palate showing fresh apple and lemon flavors accented with vibrant lime acidity. The finish is brisk with some astringency.
While quite lush and full-bodied in style, this dry rosé offers ample sour-cherry refreshment. Made predominantly from Merlot with small proportions of Chardonnay and Riesling, it finishes on a slightly herbal note.
While quite ripe and fruity, this wine is also dry, nicely tannic and firmly textured, so it will pair beautifully with rich proteins. Aged 18 months in oak, mostly French, it has concentrated dark fruit aromas, and a layered array of flavors that recalls blueberry, dark chocolate and blackberry syrup. Bright acidity keeps everything in balance.
While quite savory on the nose, wafting of pressed apples and dill, the palate of this semisweet Riesling evokes sweeter tones of honey and grapefruit. It's a bit candied and confectionery in style, but finishes on a bracing citrus note.
While racy and spry, this delicately framed wine packs a punch of honeyed peach and nectarine flavors. It's effusively fresh, floral and fruity, yet accentuated by a crystalline sheen of minerality. Drink now.
While red apple, raspberry and bramble aromas on this rosé are restrained, ruddy, slightly overripe cherry and strawberry flavors build on the palate. Dry and full-bodied in style, it finishes with a touch of exotic spice.
While redolent of jasmine blossoms and sweet orange marmalade, Hosmer's dry Riesling is surprisingly austere on the palate with hints of fresh fennel fronds and a gripping lemon acidity. A good match for heavier, savory fare like braised pork belly, it finishes on a pleasantly bitter citrus-pith note.
While relatively full-bodied and tannic, this wine also has friendly, fresh berry and cherry flavors that are held in place by very firm acidity and tannins. It feels and tastes generous but also strong and taut, so it should improve with a little time. Best to drink now through 2020.
While relatively neutral on the nose with notes of savory apple and pear, the palate is deeply earthy with flavors of mushroom and dried herb. Light in body and alcohol, it's brisk on the palate with a streak of lemon-lime acidity.
While remarkably lithe and delicate in style, this complex auslese is lusciously concentrated, with ripe peach and nectarine flavors balanced by hints of smoke, spice and musk. It's zippy and bright, with tart tangerine acidity and a wave of minerality on the finish.
While restrained on the nose, there's plenty of zesty apple, lemon and pear on the palate of this off-dry Riesling. It's an elegant yet quaffable wine with a brisk, crystalline finish. Drink now.
While restrained on the nose, this wine shocks the palate with a powerful punch of white peach, nectarine and citrus flavors. A brisk line of lime acidity invigorates the midpalate leading to a long, floral finish.
While rich and almost nectar like in ripeness, this vibrantly peachy, floral wine is kept in check by an exhilarating strike of lime acidity. Off dry in style, it's concentrated and penetrating, yet bracingly sheer. It would be a showstopper apéritif at the most elegant cocktail party.
While rich, this blend of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon is also quite herbal in character. Maybe it gets its nature from the wild garrigue countryside of Provence, but its tannins are firm and the fruit is laced with licorice. It should age another year.
While rich, this wine is well balanced with its fresh acidity and wild strawberry flavors. Citrus and a tangy orange texture are both attractive and give the wine a great lift. Drink now.
While richly concentrated, with a plump, sunny, yellow peach and sweet lemon character, Wagner's Select Riesling boasts darker tones of bitter tea and a slightly herbal aroma that runs from start to finish. It's elegant and restrained on the finish, with puckery lemon and lime pith notes.
While richly textured and boldly perfumed with melons and tangerines, the palate of this dry Riesling is delicate and lithe. Crisp honeydew and white peach flavors are almost ethereal in their subtlety, but elegantly cast against a backdrop of striking lemon and lime.
While ripe and fruity on the nose, with notes of red berries and tropical fruit, this full-bodied Riesling is quite dry on the palate. It's a bit cloying in its fruity, floral perfume, but refreshing nonetheless, with a bright grapefruit finish.
While ripe nectarine and grapefruit notes are bold on the nose, the palate of this medium-bodied Gewürztraminer is a bit demure. It's a refreshing easy-drinking white, however, offering delicate hints of lychee, citrus and guava flavor. Drink now through 2019.
While ripe on the nose and luscious in mouthfeel, this taut, nervy Bordeaux-style blend showcases sweet-tart pomegranate and cranberry flavors. It's a lean, but refreshing wine with a crisp finish.
While ripe on the nose with scents of juicy red cherries, mocha chocolate and Graham cracker crumbs, this soft, light-bodied Pinot Noir gains a slightly rustic edge on the midpalate with hints of fall foliage and a soft, furry coating of tannins on the finish.
While ripe with black fruit and hints of caramel, forest bramble and black pepper, this Bordeaux-style blend (with a hefty dose of Petit Verdot) boasts an elegant structure and clean acidity with just a hint of green on the finish.
While ripe, this also has a firm structure, with a mix of rich yellow-fruit flavors and austere minerality. With the acidity just beginning to soften, it will turn into a full and more rounded wine.
While round and supple in style, this has a puckering note of sour plums that mingle amid ripe blackberry and cherry flavors. It's uniquely tart and rich, but nuanced with fine, layered tannins and just a touch of brine that lingers on the finish.
While Savigny is better known for its red wines, its whites have a rich, soft character that makes them accessible when young. This wine, from 40-year-old vines and aged lightly in wood, is structured, mineral and full of crisp green and white fruits. Drink from 2016.
While savory and smoky on the nose with subdued aromas of apple and pineapple, this dry yet fruity Furmint from Slovenia offers a host of bright tropical flavors. Full bodied with a bracingly high acidity that's a tad off-balance, it's a refreshing wine for everyday.
While savory on the nose with pungent whiffs of smoke and dried herb, this full-bodied Chardonnay is surprisingly forward with ripe, sunny peach and apricot flavors. Straightforward in style yet juicy and enjoyable.
While savory on the nose, with hints of mealy apple and chalk dust, the palate of this vibrant, light-bodied Pinot Gris exposes a range of delicate wildflower and lime zest notes, punctuated by snappy acidity and a brisk, clean mouthfeel. Drink now.
While scents of lemon and dried tarragon seem savory on the nose, this sweet, delicately textured Riesling drips with sweet pineapple and honey flavors. The palate shrieks with lemon-lime acidity, but balances squarely with a lingering kiss of blossom.
While shades of slate and saffron lend complexity and nuance, this semisweet wine is more a showcase of sumptuous yellow peach and pear flavors. Its high-toned acidity and delicate, lacy mouthfeel make it irresistibly gulpable.
While showing roasted, tomato-like aromas, this Malbec from northern Argentina also features a nose full of tobacco, earth and berry fruit. There's acidic snap to the palate, but that only pumps up raspberry, toast and mild herbal flavors. A spicy, woody finish tastes exotic and saucy.
While showing some smoky wood, this wine is more about pure fruitiness with yellow fruit flavors given a crisper shot with acidity. Full-bodied and rich, the wine keeps a refreshing brightness. The aftertaste is crisp and fruity.
While showing sweetness, this wine also manages to retain great freshness. It's delicious, with bright green plum fruitiness as well as weight and richness. It will be a great food wine, but wait until 2018.
While showing too much wood at the moment, this wine has potential. The red berries and black currants promise a fruity future with good tannins in support. Give the wine a few years and drink from 2019.
While sleek and slender in style, there's a steely intensity to this well-priced dry Riesling. It's deeply mineral, wafting of smoke and crushed slate, and vibrantly acidic, but the midpalate yields nicely, offering layers of ripe honeydew and grapefruit. It's silken in texture, with a lingering chalkiness on the finish.
While slender in frame, this vibrantly zesty, herbal wine offers loads of intensity and vibe. Tart tangerine and apricot flavors are piercing and fresh, building in concentration and richness through a long, penetrating finish. It seems closed in its youth still, but should gain texture and complexity from 2020–2030.
While slight in alcohol, there's a profound textural richness to this stunning dry Riesling. Bold yellow-peach and orange flavors command the palate but are shaded by cascades of wet stone, petrol and smoke reminiscent of the wine's volcanic origins. It's a powerful wine calibrated by spry acidity and a deep, persistent finish.
While slightly reserved in aroma, this serious, special-occasion wine comes on steady and strong in flavor. Blueberry and black cherry notes pick up more raspberry and red cherry with each sip. In addition to fruit complexity, it has a full body, sleek texture and lingering finish. Best now through 2020.
While smoke and char notes are prominent on the nose, there's plenty of concentrated blackberry and cherry flavor in this medium-bodied red. It's fleshy and rich on the palate, but balanced out nicely by zesty strikes of cranberry acidity and fine, feathery tannins.
While smoky and mineral on the nose, the palate of this semidry Rieslaner, a cross between Riesling and Sylvaner, is boldly fruity. Fresh tangerine and berry notes are a bit candied on the palate but balanced neatly by a racy streak of acidity. This light-bodied sip finishes with sweetness.
While soft and approachable, this wine also offers a density of black currant and cherry that gives significant power and juicy exuberance. Sizable tannins risk overtaking the fruit, but never do, with the oak imparting a jolt of smokiness on the finish.
While soft and opulent initially, this wine reveals a structured, mineral character on the palate. Ripe red cherry and black plum flavors pair well with firm, dry tannins and hints of wood aging. This is an elegant wine that needs aging. Don't drink before 2017.
While soft on entry with slightly pulpy, sweet plum flavors, this Cab Franc gains intensity on the midpalate as spicy bramble notes and soft tannins accumulate. Approachable in style, it's a pleasant everyday red with just a hint of leafy green on the finish.
While soft on the nose with a generous dose of cooked black fruit, Jamesport's Bloc E is surprisingly crisp and lean on the palate. Pristine red fruit shines amidst layers of mocha, spice and forest floor, finishing on a grippy, darkly toasted wood note.
While soft spoken on the nose, the palate of this effusively fresh, fruity Kabinett bursts with ripe, peach and apricot flavors. It's irresistibly juicy and delicately sweet, balanced by a shower of tart tangerine acidity that extends the finish.
While softly smoky on the nose and palate, this honey-kissed Traminer is gorgeously perfumed with notes of orange blossoms and waxy white florals. Lusciously mouth quenching with a pithy, citrus-flavored mid-palate, it finishes on a tasty lime juice and white pepper note.
While some cuvées seem to handle the oak better than others, this wine comes across as full of toasted coconut and vanilla. There's some dark cherry fruit and savory herbs in support, but the oak dominates, albeit it in a popular, user-friendly way.
While some previous vintages have shown more richness and complexity, this is still commendable. A hint of nail polish is a bit distracting, but the toasted coconut aromas and candied pineapple flavors offer plenty to like. Drink now.
While sometimes the Pauly-Bergweiler wines come across as too simply sweet, this one hits all the right notes, from an outrageously exotic bouquet of dried apricots, orange marmalade and faintly sweaty socks that add a kinky edge to the rich, layered texture in the mouth and virtually endless finish. Should age effortlessly for decades, but it's pretty spectacular now.
While somewhat withdrawn aromatically, this Syrah has integrated flavors of cinnamon, plum and raspberry. It's structured with a tinge of sweetness and finishes on a leathery note.
While sprightly and lean in style, this dry, mineral-tinged Riesling seems to round out on the palate, building in ripe white-peach and grapefruit flavors. Penetrating lemon-lime acidity wins out on the finish, along with a pleasant bite of citrus zest.
While sprightly and sweet on the attack, this deeply fruity Riesling deepens on the palate with layers of earth and smoky mineral tones. Juicy apricot and pink-grapefruit notes linger on the finish with an astringent touch of lemon rind.
While sprightly in body and texture, this intensely concentrated, medium-sweet Riesling offers powerful fruit intensity offset by toe-tingling acidity. Ripe, luscious apricot and yellow-peach flavors are fresh, lingering on the finish with hints of sweet biscuit and caramel.
While still a bit closed on the nose, this vibrant off-dry Riesling develops rich, concentrated strokes of tangerine and stone fruit on the palate. It's sun-kissed and cheery, balanced elegantly with pert, citrus-toned acidity.
While still closed on the nose, this has hints of green and yellow pear that shine through. A slender but very appetizing juiciness on the palate is light but full of freshness and flavor. Yeast, aloe vera and herbal spice add even more pleasure. It's a gorgeous, refreshing wine from a challenging vintage.
While still light, this Vinho Verde has a creamy texture and a sense of richness. It blends two of the quality grapes of the region, Alvarinho and Loureiro. Together they make an aromatic, intense and tangy wine that is ready to drink.
While still vibrantly peachy and floral, four years of bottle aging have given this off-dry Riesling sumptuous tertiary complexities of dusty mineral and white mushroom. It's feather light on the palate yet deeply penetrating in honeyed tangerine and stone fruit flavors. Drink now through 2021.
While still young and fruity, this has the potential to be a complex, long-lived wine. It boasts stone fruit and white flower aromas, a tight structure and a hint of sweetness. Drink from 2018.
While still young, this is a wine that's full of potential. It's weighty and rich on the palate with concentrated apple and lemon flavors, but balanced with intense acidity and a lingering touch of toast. It will need aging, so drink from 2016.
While still young, this wine has a smooth texture that shows the black fruits and perfumed tannins well. The balance of acidity and rich fruitiness is underpinned by the drier, tannic core. Drink young and fruity, but better wait until 2016.
While stridently oak driven, this Chardonnay keenly maintains a core of fresh pear and apple flavor amidst layers of spice and caramel. It's supple and silky in texture, finishing on a lingering kiss of vanilla cream.
While structured and firm, this is a ripe and juicy wine. Its texture has some minerality, lending an edge to intensely youthful acidity. As the wine ages, all these elements will integrate well, so drink from 2016.
While subdued and closed off at initial tasting, time and aeration seem to bring out this wine's vibrant tangerine and apricot perfume. The spry palate is delicately sweet, juxtaposing fresh, primary stone fruit and lime flavors against a backdrop of savory earth and nut. It's a quiet wine that should gain power and depth with maturity. Hold until 2020.
While subdued on the nose and delicate in body, this dry yet honey-slicked wine overflows with concentration and power. Pristine, ripe grapefruit and lemon flavors flood the palate, catapulted by tart tangerine acidity and earthy touches of pollen and crushed minerals. The steely finish lingers long.
While subdued on the nose with aromas of pressed apple and lemon, this semi-sweet wine is surprisingly fresh and floral on the palate with ripe, juicy flavors of yellow plums and cherries. Searing lime acidity adds brightness and drives a moderately long finish.
While subdued on the nose, crunchy Asian pear and green-apple flavors on the palate are persistent and vital. Racy acidity and delicate sweetness balance neatly. A refreshing, thirst quenching wine with wide appeal.
While subdued on the nose, there's lots of lively lemon and tangerine flavor on the palate of this dainty Kabinett. It's zippy and spry but sharply penetrating with a lingering lime pith finish.
While subdued on the nose, this offers tart red cherry and currant flavors that are refreshing and crisp on the palate. The wine is not deeply concentrated or complex, but its elegant frame and vitality are attractive.
While subtle on the nose with hints of chamomile and pressed apple aroma, this ripe, full-bodied Chardonnay is concentrated with apple and lemon flavors. It's round in mouthfeel but marked with bright acidity that lends steely precision to the finish.
While sultry and rich with ripe black-fruit flavors, this concentrated Pinot Noir is surprisingly multidimensional on the nose and palate. Green herb and brisk acidity add freshness. Hints of mushroom and wet soil, along with penetrating, chewy tannins, add depth and balance.
While sunny and ripe with scents of tropical fruit, orange and peach, this bang-for-your-buck Riesling reveals surprising complexities. It's sweet and lusciously fruity on the palate, but nuanced with rambling layers of dried herbs, earth and mineral tones. Finishes long with a lingering tea-leaf astringency.
While sunny melon and peach flavors are forward and fruity, an underlining of chalky minerality lends finesse and elegance to this dry, neatly composed wine. It feels sprightly on the palate, finishing briskly on a lifted white-blossom note.
While super light in color and texture, this old-vine Zinfandel is undaunting, with a subtle intermingling of jammy cherry and mint flavors. Made to commemorate McFadden's 40 years of farming, it's a throwback in color and personality to a different time and place in Zinfandel.
While supple in mouthfeel, this offers a curious juxtaposition of puckery sour cherry and cranberry notes against slightly overripe black-fruit flavors. Soft tannins frame a relatively brisk finish. Drink now.
While sweet on the nose with aromas of cherry vanilla and wet cedar, the palate on this medium-bodied blend is a bit soft and stewed with overripe red fruit and hints of tomato sauce. Easygoing and generous throughout, it ends with soft tannins and a mocha chocolate and graham cracker crumb finish.
While sweet on the nose with hints of black cherry cola and vanilla, Lucas' Limited Reserve is a bit lean and tart on the palate with strident sour cherry fruit flavors accented by ripe wood and foliage notes.
While sweet with cream, baked apple and warm oak notes on the nose, Bellangelo's Chardonnay is a bit underripe on the palate with a subtle green apple and pear profile. Overall, a bit lacking in intensity, but finishes on a pleasant hazelnut note.
While sylphlike in mouthfeel, this outrageously ripe, rich auslese packs a punch of dried apricot, peach and pineapple flavors. Its sweetness penetrates deeply, punctuated by earthy fennel notes. It's delicious already but should improve through 2040, likely beyond.
While tart red-cherry and red-apple notes are pleasant, there's an earthiness that persists throughout this dry Merlot rosé. It's light in body with a tangy finish.
While taut and intensely mineral, there's a core of juicy grapefruit and honeydew flavors that shine brightly throughout this Riesling. Dry in style, it finishes tightly on zesty lime-pith note. Drink now.
While taut citrus is at the core of this dry, zesty Riesling, it has much more going on. Notions of peppery spice play around the edges, with glimpses of red and green apple. This is juicy and moreish, pure and totally refreshing. The dry finish accentuates the citrus zest.
While Testarossa specializes in single-vineyard wines, this basic appellation blend is solid. It's crisp in acidity and amply oaked, with powerful pineapple and peach jam, buttered toast and sweet vanilla flavors. This wine calls for dramatic Chardonnay fare, such as lobster and crab.
While the acidity is intense, it is balanced by the ripe cherry fruits and soft tannins. This is not a wine for aging much beyond 2014, showing a bright, fresh aftertaste.
While the alcohol is high and the wine powerful, it has managed to retain its linear, structured character. The result is a concentrated wine that also has acidity and a juicy blackberry fruit character. It does need to age, so don't drink before 2016.
While the alcohol on this Zin is very high, it's an outstanding example of its style, and easily Peju's most delicious Zinfandel ever. Nearly 20% of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot in the blend contribute to a nobility of structure and firm tannins, but the briary, brambly fruit and spiciness are all Zin. Decadent to drink now with short ribs.
While the alcohol says rich, the wine is in fact fresh and fruity. It's medium dry, although with a drier character from the spice and smokiness. It's ready to drink.
While the apricot, orange and green apple flavors in this Chardonnay are strong and sweet, the wine is balanced by brisk acidity and a minerality that feels and tastes like a lick of steel. It's a nice wine to drink now, although it's pricey for what you get.
While the Arinto is normally found further south in Lisboa, this wine comes from vines that have the same ocean influence. That keeps it fresh even through the oak aging, so the wine is both rich, toasty and cut with attractive citrus acidity. This one is still young and will be better from 2017, although it is ready to drink now.
While the aroma is a touch earthy, the flavors in this full-bodied and plush-textured wine resemble honey, peach and almond. With a hint of sweetness to round out the mouthfeel, this could be a good match for a wide variety of cheeses.
While the aromas are earthy, with a farmyard character, the finely textured palate is fruitier. The tannins give a firm, structured base for the red currant flavor. Solid and rich, this is now maturing, but it retains its youthful acidity.
While the aromas have rustic overtones, the wine itself goes down the red fruit path. It shows juicy cherry flavors, soft but present tannins and a good touch of spice and wood. There is an attractive smoky aftertaste. Drink in 2015.
While the aromas of this rich wine suggest a barnyard character, on the palate it is ripe and still young. Yellow fruits dominate with light acidity and a generous structure. At the end, the wine is full, opulent and needing to age. Drink from 2017.
While the aromas of this young wine reveal considerable toast, on the palate the wine brings forward the ripe apricot and mango flavors to go with that wood. As it matures, these elements will coalesce with the taut, tense mineral texture into an superb, ageworthy terroir-driven wine.
While the aromas of white strawberry, passion fruit preserves and citrus are soft spoken, they increase in intensity on the palate. Relatively low in alcohol, with sweetness and bright acidity, this should pair well with exotic, slightly spicy fare, like curried chicken with mango chutney.
While the aromas on this example are not perfectly clean, they are followed by a burst of flavor that makes up for it all. Indian spices and macadamia nuts are punctuated by apricot fruit and wrapped up in a glossy texture. Long, nutty finish. Drink now to one year.
While the aromas show some promise, they are disappointingly faint for a Gewürztraminer. This wine is an easy quaffer but lacks the palate richness typical of this variety. Crisp acidity and low alcohol (11.7%) make it a good hot weather choice.
While the aromas speak of wood aging, the fruit comes through on the palate. It is firm, full and dry, and the fruity acidity and fresh black currant flavor backs up the structure.
While the attack of this dry wine is akin to biting into a perfectly ripened white peach, notes of salt and slate accumulate on the palate, lending a profound impression of minerality. The mouthfeel is rich and full bodied, yet high-toned acidity adds structure and a prolonged finish. It's drinking well now, but still quite taut and should open gorgeously through 2025.
While the Aube vineyards are dominated by Pinot Noir, this wine shows that the region can also produce steely, mineral-driven Chardonnay. This is a fresh wine, crisp and full of tangy citrus as well as fresh green apple flavors. It could be an apéritif wine but it will work best with food.
While the blend ranges widely across Provence, the wine itself is a classic light, fruity rosé. With its tang of citrus, bright acidity and touch of spice, it is a delicious apéritif style wine.
While the brooding notes of dark cherries, herbs and barrel spices bring some interest, the palate comes off as quite astringent and distracts.
While the bulk of this estate's wines are in prestigious Saint-Julien, this comes from a parcel in the Haut-Médoc. It's a rich and structured wine, full of black fruit and acidity. Although developing well, it still needs time. Drink from 2019.
While the citrus aromas are subtle, the linear palate discloses lemony concentration and green pear, lending precision and structure rather than aromatics. The wine calls for sturdy food.
While the color of this wine is light, the intensity and the structure are not. It comes from 30-year-old vines, planted densely that gives the wine huge concentration. It is firm full of tannins that lie over the ripe fruit. As it develops, this wine will be sumptuous, ripe and impressive. Wait until 2023.
While the concentrated flavors of peaches and sweet pears are pleasant, whiffs of smoke and toasted nuts lend a savory, rather atypical character to this dry Gewürz. It's dry and brisk, with soft, lemony acidity.
While the familiar white version of this wine is from Vinho Verde, the producers have gone a little further south to the Douro for the red. That gives a soft wine but with weight and attractive layers of red-berry fruits and a touch of warmth. Drink now.
While the Finger Lakes region is better known for Riesling, this gorgeously composed single-vineyard Cabernet Franc sets a benchmark for American red wine. The nose is delicately perfumed of violet, lavender and autumn leaves. On the palate, swirls of luscious black fruit juxtapose layers of granite and stone. Briskly balanced, yet endlessly persistent on the finish, it's a standout bottling that's well worth seeking out.
While the fruit is delicious, full of blackberry flavors, a powerful tannic core shows a firmer side to this wine. As the wine opens up, it becomes dense, concentrated, with ripe Merlot fruitiness. At the end, all is freshness and light. Drink from 2020.
While the initial impression is fruity, the wine then shows almond and spice characters. The texture, is thin and light, like apple juice with taut acidity.
While the Larmandier's main vineyard is in Vertus, they also have a parcel in the grand cru vineyard of Cramant. It is full of beautifully ripe fruit, beginning to round out as it ages. Green fruits and white pears, as well as yeast are still dominant; drink 2010.
While the majority of the grapes for this wine are from Napa, small additions come from Lake, Sonoma and Solano counties. It holds a healthy dose of Merlot too. Simple in richness and ripeness, its flavors highlight bacon and charred oak, the tannins dusty and firm.
While the name means “burnt,” it really refers to the southern exposure of this warm vineyard. Wood aged in new barrels, this wine has a toasty character that is well balanced by the rich fruits. Acidity and a mineral texture give this wine aging potential. Drink from 2017.
While the nose discloses little, the palate displays an array of apricot, sharp arugula and white pepper with some grapefruit zest. Focused and streamlined, this wine delivers lip-smacking freshness, great concentration and a super-clean finish. Drink as of 2016.
While the nose does not give away much, the palate reveals simple but supple cherry fruit, joined here and there by darker blackberry and plum. The structure is there but lightly worn. This is a friendly, unobtrusive, medium-bodied red with an edge of tar and spice.
While the nose exudes burnt-toast aromas, the palate is much better suited to fruit. It has wood flavors, certainly, but these are well balanced with the ripe berry fruits and dark, brooding structure. From just north of Saint-Estèphe, this wine will age well. Drink from 2018.
While the nose gives little away apart from a yeasty roundness, the palate shines with crisp, pure Conference pear fruit and a herbal tinge of watercress and arugula with the merest notes of salty soy. Slender, poised and very enjoyable.
While the nose gives little away here apart from the slightest lemon flavors, the palate is lightly textured and shows straitlaced lemon freshness with bright rays of zesty fruit. It's an ideal, refreshing apéritif for warm summer days.
While the nose gives little away, the palate has a shy but very seductive nature: floral borders of honeysuckle adorn the edges of tart, fresh apple fruit and are highlighted by lemony acidity. The body is light and dry and shows playfulness and charm against a more serious, stony background. A very charming, subtle wine.
While the nose gives little away, the palate is smooth and fruit-laden. A mix of cinnamon-scented red and black forest berries appears on the smooth midpalate which has just the slightest grip of tannin. This has a mellow, soft theme but nonetheless carries all the necessary freshness on a medium body.
While the nose has a persistent apple cider quality, the palate brings a bit more nuance, with unripe peach and sweet-and-sour lemon flavors.
While the nose has savory hints of walnut and dried herb amid pressed apple and mineral tones, the palate is lavishly floral and peachy. Intense streaks of honey are offset by bracing lemon-lime acidity and a long mineral finish. Refreshing and lively.
While the nose is a bit closed off, pristine apple, pear and grapefruit flavors shine brightly on the palate of this dry, brisk Riesling. Fruity, forward and fresh, it's an uncomplicated yet satisfying quaffer. Drink now.
While the nose is a bit cool, suggesting tart, green notes of melon rind and apple, the palate of this late-harvest Riesling is unctuously ripe. It's boldly honeyed yet pristine in fruit character, suggesting sun-kissed yellow cherries and tangerines. The palate is concentrated and forward but balanced by zesty acidity and a lingering, delicately sweet finish.
While the nose is a bit subdued, suggesting bruised apple and herb notes, the palate of this spry, off-dry Riesling is fresh, fruity and elegant. Crisp white peach and grapefruit flavors are lively and tart, finishing with a refreshing green herb note. Drink now through 2018.
While the nose is a delicate bouquet of cherry blossoms and raspberries, the palate of this pomegranate-toned wine is kicky and bright. Despite its extended bottle age, it's surprisingly primary still, bristling with tart sour-cherry flavor.
While the nose is a touch brambly, profoundly ripe blackberry and cherry flavors are ruddy, almost pulpy on the palate of this plush juicy wine. Soft acidity and even softer tannins contribute to its easy-drinking style. Drink now through 2019.
While the nose is a touch herbaceous, there's plenty of varietal characteristic to celebrate in this fresh, blossomy Gewürztraminer. Green melon and peach flavors are brightened by a lemony squirt and delicate lace of sweetness on the finish. Drink now through 2018.
While the nose is a touch savory and subdued, the palate of this off-dry Riesling boasts an abundance of sweet-tart apricot and peach flavors. Its sunny, simple demeanor is jolted by searing lemon-lime acidity that bristles on the finish.
While the nose is a touch savory, accented by hints of nut and earth, a bounty of luscious, fruity exuberance awaits on the palate of this off-dry Gewürztraminer. Layers of honey and nectar lend an unctuousness to fresh yellow peach and citrus flavors. The finish lingers with a swirl of sweet caramel.
While the nose is austere, suggesting more stone than fruit, the palate of this dry-style Riesling offers loads of juicy, sunny peach and apricot flavors. It's an approachable yet elegant wine with cutting acidity and a lime-pith finish. Drink now through 2021.
While the nose is buoyant, bursting with honey, mango and flowers, a polished elegance reverberates throughout this dry, steely Riesling. Rich in body and texture, it's ripe and peachy, yet balanced with streaks of lime, lemon and mineral. The finish rolls endlessly on the palate.
While the nose is decidedly savory, wafting of herbs and bramble, the palate of this delicately lacy auslese bursts with juicy, peach and apricot nectar. Wax, honey and spice notes meld into a long finish, lifted by a streak of tangerine acidity.
While the nose is delicate with faint hints of yellow plum and pear, the palate is surprisingly brawny and bold. Rich, buttery and voluminous, this wine showcases ripe citrus and apple flavors, but falls a bit short on the finish.
While the nose is demure with delicate notes of apple and lemon, the palate on this Grüner Veltliner is ripe with fleshy gooseberry flavor. It's delicate in flavor concentration, but overall, refreshing and brisk.
While the nose is demure, suggesting only a hint of muted apple and pear, the sweet-tart palate on this spry wine is full of yellow-cherry flavor. Bracing acidity wraps the finish up tight and brisk.
While the nose is demure, the palate on this dainty auslese bursts of sweet yellow peaches and cherries. Luscious and clingy, it's irresistibly juicy, yet remarkably mineral and structured, with a nervous tension throughout. It's delicious now, yet should gain even more mineral complexity from 2020 and on.
While the nose is demure, with just a touch of rose petal remniscent of Gewürztraminer, this dry white gains body and power on the palate. There's a surprising intensity of stone fruit flavor that remains through the finish.
While the nose is dominated by darker mineral notes of petrol and smoke, a penetrating core of juicy white peach and melon flavors flood the palate. Silky and lush in mouthfeel, it lingers long through a slick, lip-smacking finish. Drink now through 2025.
While the nose is exuberant and tropical with swirls of mango and pineapple, the palate of this dry Riesling is surprisingly dainty. Crisp pear and tangerine flavors are refreshing and easy drinking through a brisk finish.
While the nose is focused on delicate lemon, apple and talc aromas, the juicy palate brings peach and crunchy red apple-skin flavors. Off dry in style, with vibrant acidity, this is a well-balanced offering from this northern Michigan producer.
While the nose is intensely oaky, wafting of dark toast, smoked nuts and spice, the palate of this Chardonnay is surprisingly fresh with crisp apple and pear flavors. It's a rounded, voluptuous wine that neatly balances the richness and complexity of oak against fruit. Drink now through 2021.
While the nose is more mineral than fruit, a crush of fresh white peach and grapefruit flavors explode on the palate of this juicy off-dry Riesling. Spry and briskly textured, it makes for an especially refreshing apéritif.
While the nose is muted, on the palate there are hints of Golden Delicious apples, fir honey and a pleasing bitter almond edge. This is a white wine made with food in mind, its pronounced midpalate will pair well with cheeses or creamy pasta. If you are looking for texture rather than primary fruit, this is your wine.
While the nose is on the simple side, with ultraripe—almost confected—cherry, cocoa powder, flowers and medicinal herbs, it's the palate that draws you in. Fresh acidity, particularly for the variety, and a good lick of tannins round out this sleek, well-structured wine. Drink now–2025.
While the nose is overall a bit soapy, the aromas of berry and banana are Gamay-like in character. The wine feels flat on entrance, but the acids pick up pace toward the midpalate. It finishes short, ending on a mocha note.
While the nose is plush and tropical, there's elegance and restraint on the palate of this complex dry Riesling. It's delicate in body, yet its honeyed lemon and tangerine flavors are bold and penetrating. The finish is long and edged in steel, with a pleasantly astringent kick of lime zest. Beautiful already, it should improve through the next decade.
While the nose is pungent and true to the variety, there isn't much else positive to say about this cypher of a Sauvignon Blanc. The palate is plump yet fizzy, while the flavor profile offers citrus, bitterness and nothing more.
While the nose is quite bold, boasting concentrated notes of strawberry leather and caramel, the palate on this delicately framed rosé is demure. It's a bit light in concentration with soft acidity, but an easygoing quaffer for early consumption.
While the nose is quite demure, the palate of this Chardonnay-Riesling blend is vibrantly fruity. Dry in style with forward fresh flavors of red apple, pear and tangerine, it's an easygoing sip with a crisp lemony finish.
While the nose is quite neutral, the palate of this off-dry Riesling boasts ripe, concentrated peach and apricot flavors bolstered by sunny lemon acidity. Juicy and mouthwatering, it's a lively sip to be enjoyed young.
While the nose is restrained, the palate of this off-dry Riesling bursts with sweet, luscious pink grapefruit, guava and peach flavors. It's refreshingly crisp, yet deeply concentrated with a lingering, almost berried touch of sweetness on the finish. Drink now–2016.
While the nose is restrained, the palate of this Spätlese Riesling abounds in sweet-tart nectarine, peach and tangerine flavors. Primary and fresh, it's an uncomplicated yet vibrantly penetrating wine. Drink now.
While the nose is ripe and plush with sweet smelling red-cherry and strawberry aromas, this is a surprisingly brisk, light-footed Pinot Noir. The palate is lean with crisp, briary red fruit and drying, slightly astringent tannins on the finish.
While the nose is savory with dusty mineral and earth tones, the palate of this semi-sweet Riesling is intensely concentrated with juicy, ripe peach and marmalade flavors. It's lacy and light in texture, but penetrating fruit flavors linger long on the finish.
While the nose is savory, dominated by smoke and mineral notes, this elegant yet quaffable off-dry Riesling is remarkably floral and fruity on the palate. Rich honeydew and apricot flavors are highlighted by a zing of lime acidity.
While the nose is shy at first, the palate reveals abundant red and green apples, with some juicy yellow pear around the edges. Texture and structure strike a balance with the lovely, clean fruit. It's a delicious, textured, earthy Riesling made for food.
While the nose is shy, the palate displays a grapefruit-spiced edged along with the ripeness of juicy stone fruit: mirabelles and yellow pears are conjured up. While the fruit is ripe the wine has something weightless, transparent and fresh. This goes down far too easily and needs to be savored. The finish is delicate but full flavored.
While the nose is shy, the palate is full of texture and focus: citrus freshness has an edge of pleasantly bitter pear peel while grapefruit zestiness pulls no punches with its brightening focus. This packs a punch and needs a good meal to counter its power.
While the nose is slightly savory with whiffs of dried herbs and stems, the palate on this Sauvignon Blanc is ripe with juicy white grapefruit and peach flavors. Sunny tangerine-lime acidity keeps the mid palate pert.
While the nose is slow to express itself, the palate immediately bursts with crisp, tart apple, with fresh, green pear, with ripe but zesty citrus. There is an innate lightness and lovely depth in this unforced, honest and utterly refreshing wine. It comes on light feet and draws you in with its fresh-faced authenticity. More please.
While the nose is soft-spoken, the palate of this honey-slicked Spätlese is robust, buoyant with fruit and complexities of spice, saffron and mineral. Ripe tangerine and stone fruit flavors are satisfyingly juicy, yet edged by a fine filigree of lime and lemon acidity.
While the nose is subdued with delicate hints of minerals, wax, lemon and lime, this almost-dry Riesling is buoyantly fruity on the palate with concentrated flavors of peach and Meyer lemon. Lemon-lime acidity strikes provocatively on the midpalate for a bold, impactful finish.
While the nose is subdued, lush honeydew and white peach flavors shine brilliantly on the palate of this taut, nervous wine. Streaks of steely mineral lend a polished feel that lingers on the finish. It's strikingly acidic still, but should meld together beautifully with some cellaring, ideally from 2019 on.
While the nose is subdued, the palate brings out yellow apple peel and rounded, mellow spice, spiked with pure lemony freshness. Tingling pepperiness around the edges makes this pure apple-lemon combo so moreish. This is authentic, pure and has a lasting, clean finish.
While the nose is subdued, the palate of this off-dry Riesling is unexpectedly fruity, brimming with juicy peach and nectarine flavors. It's simple and straightforward but a refreshing, satisfying sip. Drink now through 2017.
While the nose is subdued, the palate of this semidry Riesling offers loads of fresh peach and yellow-cherry flavors. It's crisply balanced with fresh lime acidity and a brisk revitalizing finish.
While the nose is toasted, raw and spicy, the palate is weighty and legit, with grabby tannins and generic but solid flavors of mixed berries, herbal notes and oak. The finish is savory and slightly barbecued in flavor.
While the nose of this ethereal, lithe Riesling is a bit bashful, glorious shades of tangerine, quince and peach await on the palate. High-toned acidity pierces through sweet honey and nectar, darting into a long, minerally finish. It's stunning now, but should develop with integrity for at least another decade.
While the nose of this Lemberger is quite voluptuous, with aromas of ripe black cherries and plum, the palate highlights crisp, slightly tart blackberry flavor. It's full bodied in style, yet refreshing with acidity and finishes quite brisk.
While the nose of this purplish red is almost closed, the palate conveys lots of pepper-spiced black cherry tamed by slight but pleasantly textured tannins that lend slender structure. There is freshness, balance and verve in this unusual blend of Austrian everyman Zweigelt and silky Pinot Noir. An intriguing blend that keeps you coming back for more.
While the nose of this Riesling is fresh with scents of orange zest and berries, the palate is unctuously ripe and rich with sweet tropical fruit. It's a lush, easy-going sip but lively with acidity and irresistably tasty.
While the nose of this sprightly off-dry Riesling is floral and fresh, the palate is almost dense with ripe rich flavors of tropical mango, melon and orange. It's a lush deeply penetrating wine, yet feather-light in texture. The salty, mineral tang on the finish reverberates delightfully. Drink now through 2021.
While the nose of this wine is a bit savory, hinting of dried herb and bramble, the palate dazzles with crisp green apple and plum flavors that feel puckering and spry. The finish is racy and refreshing.
While the nose on this Chardonnay is decidedly savory, with notes of cooked apples and buttery cheese rinds, the palate is surprisingly feminine, with pretty orange-blossom and apple jelly notes. Opulent and fruity, yet refreshingly-balanced in alcohol and acidity.
While the nose on this medium-bodied Cab is eminently fruit forward with scents of lush black cherry jam and spice, the palate is remarkably fresh with herbs, bramble and bright sour cherry. Supple tannins and a tart midpalate lead to a long finish.
While the nose on this muscular Malbec is lush, ripe and minty, there's also a grounding, complex scent of graphite. Blazing with intensity, this tastes like a glorious blend of plum, prune, chocolate and caramel. Dry spice, toasty oak and ripe berry flavors touch up against raisiny on the finish. Drink through 2019.
While the nose on this off-dry Riesling is lean and mineral, the palate is lusciously ripe, brimming with peach and mango flavors. A streak of high-pitched acidity shakes up the midpalate and lingers through the finish.
While the nose on this sweetie isn't deep, it's lush, inviting and peachy as they come. The palate feels fresh and straightforward, and the flavor profile blends tropical fruit flavors with spice and honey accents. Overall this seems natural, easygoing and expressive.
While the nose on this unoaked Chardonnay is exuberant with billowing, ripe yellow stonefruit and floral aromas, the palate is quite brisk in style with a lean, steely acidity. Dry and medium bodied, it's an exceptionally elegant Chardonnay.
While the nose opens with intense mineral tones of smoke and petrol, the palate of this kabinett bursts with plump melon and stone fruit. Zesty and bright, it's a deeply complex and irresistibly quaffable wine, with satisfying sweetness on the finish.
While the nose reveals only faint whiffs of apples, nuts and brambles, the palate of this off-dry Riesling is crisply concentrated with fresh red apples and tart peaches. It's not a deeply persistent wine, but finishes brisk and bright.
While the nose seems a bit savory, with muted apple and honeycomb notes, this dry, full-bodied Riesling is quite fruity on the palate, with pleasant peach and nectarine flavors. It's brisk, with lemon-lime acidity and just a hint of astringency on the finish.
While the nose seems dominated by oak, with charred bacon and cola aromas, the palate shows plenty of fruit, offering velvety dark cherry in the lead. Savory spice notes streak across the plush, structured palate, giving way to a mocha finish. There's enough acidity and tannic structure to explore how this will develop in the years to come. Give it another year or two for the oak to integrate further.
While the nose seems promising with its exotic-tinged aromas of banana, peach and papaya, the palate falls short. It tastes a bit disjointed, with an oily mouthfeel, exaggerated acidity and a feeble banana flavor.
While the nose shows more minerality than fruit, suggesting of hints of wet slate and clay, the palate of this off-dry Riesling reveals crisp green apple and yellow plum notes. It's a juicy, fresh and approachable wine for everyday enjoyment.
While the nose shows sweet aromas of cherry bubblegum and vanilla, the palate brings notes of ripe cherry and currant balanced by zippy acidity. Soft tannins provide just enough grip, giving this fun and fruity wine adequate structure.
While the nose suggests a hint of pressed apple, the palate on this richly textured Chardonnay is bright with yellow plum and apple flavors touched with spice, smoke and cream. Revitalizing acidity freshens the midpalate, leaving the finish brisk and clean.
While the nose suggests hints of oxidation, the bright palate brims with fresh apple and pear flavors. It's plump and rich in mouthfeel, accented by streaks of caramel, toast and spice.
While the nose suggests intensely ripe, almost ruddy black plums and cherries, the palate of this full-bodied blend is surprisingly lean. Black fruit flavors, accented by swathes of sage and thyme, are surprisingly crisp and tart. It's a delicately concentrated wine finishing on a meandering fade of soft tannins.
While the nose suggests more dusty mineral than fruit, the palate of this off-dry Riesling offers loads of concentrated tangerine, lemon and apple flavors. It's juicy and ripe yet keenly balanced by a penetrating backbone of lemon-lime acidity. Drink now through 2021.
While the nose suggests ripe tangerines and blossoms edged by hints of smoke and slate, the palate of this dry Riesling turns surprisingly austere. Light on its feet with a lean, razor-edged precision, it's angularity and steeliness are refreshing and revitalizing. The finish is marked by lingering lime pith and herbal tones.
While the nose takes some time to open, crisp lemon, green apple and pear on the palate are vital and fresh here. It's a zingy, brut-style sparkling wine made entirely from Chardonnay with bold, mouthfilling foam. Delicate caramel and sugar cookie tones embellish a long finish.
While the nose wants to give little away, the palate speaks of crunchy, fresh red cherry. The medium body carries this fruit with ease and gives the necessary structure. The tenor of this is playful, fruit forward and most enjoyable, with a suitably peppery finish. Drink soon.
While the notes of raspberry jam, plum and herbs bring plenty of appeal, it's the velvety soft, plush texture that truly dazzles on this fresh, fruit-filled wine that has a high yum factor.
While the orange, pear and green apple flavors of this Pinot Grigio seem sweetened by the vanilla and honey notes, the wine's brisk acidity balances it and makes finish dry and clean. This will make for a fine apéritif, and it will also pair well with slightly sweet Chinese, Vietnamese and Cambodian fare.
While the producer does have vines in Volnay, this wine comes from the negociant side of the business. The wine has structure and some firm tannins. At this stage, the Volnay roundness lies behind the dry surface. But it does have weight and the potential to age well. Drink from 2021.
While the producer holds back its heartier reds in bottle before release, this complex, rich wine will keep going with more cellaring, giving it a chance to further hone its already-developed layers of leather, earth and backbone of black fruit. Smooth and velvety, it retains sizable tannin weight on the finish. Cellar through 2020.
While the Russian River Valley is a cool-climate area, the vineyard sourcing for this wine is in a warmer, eastern part of the appellation. It's ultrarich in berry, licorice and bacon flavors that are sweet in the middle palate, but finish with a dry scour of tannins. Lovely now and over the next six years.
While the savory nose leads with subdued notes of apple and lemon, this off-dry Riesling shines on the palate, with juicy stone fruit and yellow cherry flavors. Tangerine acidity adds zip and verve, leading into a finish that's fresh with herbal and floral tones.
While the small coastal appellation of Colares, just north of Lisbon, is better known for its reds, it does produce even smaller quantities of white Malvasia de Colares. This wine is perfumed, ripe with honeyed notes as well as a salty, mineral character. The aftertaste shows the spice from short wood aging. Drink now.
While the softer scent of green Conference pears wraps around the nose, the palate also takes in subtle earth and adds pliable, almost soft notes of apricot and yellow plum to a stony, poised and statuesque background. This is lovely and fresh now but sure to develop. Drink anytime now until 2019.
While the style is soft, full of yellow fruit richness, the wine also show an excellent concentrated texture. The fresh fruit is integrated into this more complex style. The aftertaste shows some softness, but the wine can certainly age for several years.
While the tannins are still firm, this has the potential to be a fruity wine with attractive acidity. A juicy character will allow the wine to develop quickly. Sylviane Garcin-Cathiard also owns Clos L'Église in Pomerol, Château Barde-Haut in Saint-Émilion and Château Branon in Pessac Léognan.
While the tannins are still powerful and dense, the wine has rich berry fruits and juicy acidity that give freshness. It's ripe, well balanced, and full bodied, with a dark, concentrated character at the end. Drink from 2016.
While the tannins are still young, enough fruit gives balance and potential to the wine. It has structure and a dry texture sustained by the black currant fruitiness in the background. Drink from 2017. Joseph Arbo bought the property in 1988 and installed a new winery in 2011.
While the tannins are very present in this wine, it also has good acidity and blackberry fruits. It's firm and structured in the front, still young, although allowing plenty of room for the fruit to show strongly over the next few years. Drink from 2019.
While the tannins here are dry, this wine has enough fruit to show its potential. Blackberry flavors are ripe, cut with acidity and a juicy texture. The wine needs time, so drink from 2017. Enologist Sebastien and vineyard manager Nicolas are the latest generation managing the Carreau family estates.
While the texture is light, the fruit and the wood flavors give this wine richness and a ripe, toast and apricot character. It has balanced acidity that allows a fresher edge to develop. The aftertaste, hinting at a steely edge, suggests the wine will age. Drink from 2017.
While the texture is rich and full-bodied, there is an edge of sharp acidity that takes away from the generous ripeness. Tannins and juicy red fruits are present, but the acidity is a little jarring.
While the texture of this Pinot is silky and light, it's dramatic in flavor. The cherries, plums, pomegranates and persimmons are packed together into a dense core of taste, all spiced up with cinnamon, cloves and anise. Feels dramatic and complex, but young and fresh in acids and tannins. Give it 5–6 years.
While the trend among many Australian Cabernets is towards moderate, silky tannin structures, this austere, firm wine embraces its dry, dusty nature. Cedar and toast frame big cassis fruit, ending with chewy tannins. Drink 2018–2028.
While the wine's aromas are all about wood and smoky toast, it proffers reassuring hints of fruit on the palate. However, it is still an over-oaked wine that will likely never have enough fruitiness.
While the wine's surface is smooth, underneath there are firm, dry tannins that offer potential for power. New wood flavors are still prominent, indicating that this is still a wine in development.
While the wine appears initially generous, it then reveals a strongly steely, tight and mineral character. Rich fruits give a full and rounded exterior, while the more textured center shows how well this wine will age. Honey and acidity reinforce the poised contrast. Drink from 2017.
While the wine certainly has structure, its main character, from the dominant Merlot, is the juicy, stalky fruit and jammy, ripe black plums. It does have an edge of bitter chocolate and a layer of wood. When that softens, it will be a ripe, broad wine. Drink from 2017.
While the wine does have considerable tannins, it also has the ripe Merlot fruit to support it. Good acidity, black currant fruits, smoky wood, all the elements are there. It will always be firm, but should mature well.
While the wine does have richness, it's the mineral and citrus side that is coming through at this stage. The balance with the wood aging is so right that you feel the toast rather than tasting it. As it matures, the wine will deepen in intensity and power, certainly over the next 5–10 years.
While the wine does have some dry tannins, it is surprisingly light and soft for a Nuits-Saint-Georges. Red cherry flavors are already as important as the acidity and the dry core. That means this is not a wine for long-term aging, so drink from 2017. This is one of the first vintages since Labouré-Roi, which was hit by scandal in 2012, passed into new ownership.
While the wine does have some firm tannins, it also bears rich black fruits that envelop and cushion the dry core. They give the wine weight, ripe fruitiness and jammy red berry flavors. It would be worth aging until 2016, but can be drunk now.
While the wine does have tannins, it's dominant characters are juicy red fruits, sweet tannins and a fresh, lightly mineral texture. It's a wine that's ready to drink, fruity while firm at the end.
While the wine has a crisp side, it's also full of red fruits and soft tannins. That makes for a wine that's fragrant, fruity, ready to drink and not likely to age much. Enjoy it now.
While the wine has a fresh character from tart black currants, it also has a rich underlay of perfumed, riper fruit. It's bright, light and fruity—ready to drink while also ready to age for a few more years.
While the wine has all the steely crispness you expect in a Chablis, it also offers ripe fruitiness that gives a full-bodied, round character. Acidity cuts through to give a lift to the fruit and to the tight texture of this young wine. It should age until 2015.
While the wine has considerable power and richness, it is the fresh character that's most noticeable. The firm tannins and dark structure are shot through with black currant acidity and fresh berry fruits. Drink from 2017.
While the wine has plenty of juicy fruit, it also has a heavy hand with wood that gives a bitter, spice and pepper character. Densely textured, it's tough for the moment although it will round out. Drink from 2017.
While the wine has plenty of tannins, it also has juicy black fruits that more than balance the structure. It's a well-made, ripe wine that has a sweep of fruitiness. From 2018, the tannins will be fully integrated.
While the wine has plenty of the tannins typical of 2011 at this stage, it also has ripe fruit, full of blackberry and currant flavors. The balance is already there, giving a potentially rich, juicy and generous wine. Drink from 2017.
While the wine has some concentration from the old vines, its general effect is of a soft, open and generous texture that is full and rounded. There is some spice, a touch of toast and full-bodied blackberry and currant flavors. Drink now.
While the wine has some richness, it is also firmly structured, with a minerally severity from its tight tannins. Under the surface, there is a fruity character that's dominated by a juicy black-currant flavor.
While the wine has weight, it also has intense mineral structure. It piles the citrus flavors over more notes of apples and apricots, a medley of fruits that are shaped into a firm, concentrated structure. The wine has acidity along with a light toast edge.
While the wine is a touch gamy, it also has a ripe, fruity character. There is a touch of wood, underlining the acidity and juicy red fruits. The finish brings out the richness of the vintage.
While the wine is bone-dry, its soft character keeps it from being too steely and tight. Aromatic and fresh, it has delicious, juicy apple and green plum flavors. Drink from 2015.
While the wine is bright, there is a serious side to it. The mineral texture and flavors of apricot and honey are paired with vanilla and grapefruit acidity. It is ready to drink, but will be better in mid-2015.
While the wine is clean and refreshing, its texture lacks definition. It has a soft, bright finish.
While the wine is clean, it tastes yeasty and heavy despite its low alcohol. There is strawberry fruitiness and final acidity, although the sweetness remains intrusive.
While the wine is dominated by flavors of wood aging, it also has fine fruit weight that will come through. Then it will be a powerful and concentrated wine, rich and full of blackberry and black plum fruits. The structure will keep this fruitiness in order. Drink from 2017.
While the wine is dominated by youthful acidity, it's red fruits and light structure promise an attractive future. It's fresh and very fruity, with spice and smokiness at the end.
While the wine is dry at this young stage, it has fine potential. Generous fruits and firm tannins give it richness and a juicy character. Drink the wine from 2018.
While the wine is dry from the austere tannins, it also has a core of ripe berry fruits that are laced with acidity. It should develop some more and the tannins will soften, although they will always be very present. Drink from early 2018.
While the wine is dry, it has such a wonderful honey character. It is perfumed, ripe and rich with almonds, pear and baked apple flavors. The wine, from a single vineyard, is likely to develop much further. Wait to drink until 2019.
While the wine is dry, there is a fruitiness to it coupled with a caramel flavor that certainly makes it seem sweeter. With a crisp aftertaste, the raspberry flavored wine is ready to drink.
While the wine is firm and tannic at this early stage, it does have the potential to bring out a more fruity character. The red-berry fruits and acidity are there, promising a fresh wine from 2018.
While the wine is fresh, it also has a bitter, cheesy character that is more funky than fruity. The acidity is very present, giving a crisp edge. Drink now.
While the wine is full bodied and rich, it is also deliciously fresh and with lively fruitiness. There is great acidity here, a bright layer of red currant fruits and wild strawberries, making it a good food rosé.
While the wine is full in the mouth with ripe fruits, it also has a delicious poise and freshness that makes it ready to drink. It's a well-balanced wine, full of fruitiness and acidity in harmony.
While the wine is light, it has a good balance between its dry tannins and attractive black currant fruitiness. With good structure, it will age over the medium term, so drink from 2016.
While the wine is on the sweet side of Gewürztraminer, it has an attractive level of acidity. The result is rich, but it has poise and elegance. Ready to drink.
While the wine is really pale in color, it does have a great range of flavors, offering red fruit notes balanced by beautiful acidity and citrus streaks. It's gently textured, giving a good bite to the fruitiness at the end.
While the wine is rich and fruity, it also a cool, crisp edge that comes from the nearby ocean. Red-berry fruits are shot through with acidity and a dry core of tannin. The pepper and spice flavor probably comes from the high alcohol.
While the wine is rich and seriously textured, it has a pure fruitiness that is beguiling, ripe and full of green and citrus flavors. Spice and minerality give a strong sense of structure and ageability. Drink this firm wine from 2016.
While the wine is rich and tarry, it has an old-fashioned feel to it that comes from the juicy tannins and touch of rusticity. That's not unattractive, a wood-aged oxidized wine that has fruit and spice to add to its allure. Drink from 2015.
While the wine is rich, it does show a more austere side, with tight acidity balancing superripe fruit tones. Big berry flavors are contrasted by ripe tannins and a chalky, firm texture. This wine might need to age, so drink after 2015.
While the wine is ripe, it does have a barnyard aroma that needs to blow away before it is ready to drink. The aroma comes with firm, dry tannins and a ripe berry fruits that are just beginning to develop. Drink from 2017.
While the wine is round, full and rich, it also has a tense minerality that joins the acidity in cutting through the smoother structure. There is a clean, tight tang to the texture that offers a ripe aftertaste.
While the wine is showing the spirit strongly, that doesn't detract from the good acidity and dried-fruit flavors. It has kept much of its freshness, still hinting at red fruits, while the wood aging provides great support. The aftertaste, with its aromatic acidity, is just right.
While the wine is soft and almost ready to drink, it does also have the Douro mineral texture and dry tannins. The Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) dominates, giving the wine its round and rich character. Drink now or wait until 2016 for the tannins to soften further.
While the wine is structured and firm at the moment, it also has a solid character with plenty of berry fruits that are waiting to come through. It is smoky, fruity and likely to be ready to drink from 2016.
While the wine is structured, it does also have plenty of ripe, juicy fruitiness that is already delicious. It's an open wine, rounded and rich in fruit flavor. The tannins are likely to smooth out soon, so drink from 2016.
While the wine is technically dry, its richness gives it a sweeter sensation. The ripe apricot and pineapple fruit is cut with knife-like acidity, allowing this concentrated wine to remain poised, with a crisp finish.
While the wine is toasty, burnt almost, the freshness of the fruit is very present, giving a light, lively touch to the weight. Give it six months to finally integrate.
While the wine is very dense, it also has layers of very ripe fruits, plums and dark berries that give it an intensely rich character. The juicy acidity is almost overwhelming, a shock of freshness as it cuts through the concentrated texture. The wine still needs to age, so drink from 2017.
While the wine is very ripe in character, it is also finely structured and generous while still keeping a sense of proportion. It is dense, full of blackberry jelly flavors that are balanced by a final burst of acidity. Drink now, although better from early 2017.
While the wine is very sweet, the sweetness does not stand out as much as the intense spiciness. It's a gorgeous wine without excess, textured and with minerality. The aftertaste has a light touch of acidity. It's impressive now, although it will be better from 2018.
While the wine is very young, the potential is there. It has rich tannins and berry fruits that are packed with youthful acidity. The structure and the depth of flavor are there with a hint of the juicy fruits as well as the minerality that are both developing. Drink from 2018.
While the wine is young, it is made in a style that makes it very ready to drink. The tannins are so soft, with rounded black fruits just crispened by acidity. Drink now.
While the wine seems at first rich, it then shows a tautly acidic character that gives a refreshing character to the roundness. That steely acidity is what defines the tight, crisp finish.
While the wine shows plenty of wood aging, dry flavors, it also has a good weight of fruit and richness. That gives both structure and weight that promise a good future. It has density, dusty tannins and good power. Drink from 2016.
While the wine, with its wood aging, does take away the fresh varietal character of the Arinto, it offers a rich, full and spicy wine that is stylish and well balanced. It has a firm, mineral character that cuts through the opulent texture to produce a wine that is ripe and ready to drink.
While the winery's regular 2010 Diamond Mountain Cab is a barrel selection, this Estate Vineyard selection consists of “only the darkest, most extracted lots,” from the winery's various vineyards, according to the winemaker. That's exactly what you get, an inky wine, it's huge on the palate with blackberries, currants and dark chocolate, augmented by plenty of new French oak. It is absolutely delicious now, but the tannin structure guarantees to develop for 10–20 years.
While the wood aging and toast do show, this wine is also rich. Black fruits give a juicy, flavorsome character, an opulence that is finished with some acidity. Drink from 2016.
While the wood aging of this wine still shows, it's already balancing out with the ripe black fruits and rich structure. An attractive smoky character is followed by juicy berry flavors and acidity. This is a wine to age, so wait until 2017.
While the wood flavors are prominent, they don't mask the ripe berry fruits in this Merlot-dominant blend. Blaye sister-brother team of Marie-Pierre et Pierre-Charles Dartier produced a wine with a rich character. It is full of wood spice, hints of mint and acidity. Drink from 2019.
While the wood is still very apparent in this wine, it does also have the rich fruit as a balance. The acidity, dark berry fruits and a fine juicy character go with the firm tannins and spicy wood character. Drink from 2017.
While the year is not one of the great Port vintages, it has produced some finely structured wines like this that will mature relatively quickly. It comes with great fruit that was teased out of the grapes in traditional open stone lagars. It is, of course, dense and full of tannins as well as fruit. It will develop well and could be drinkable soon (say by 2018) for its fruit although it will then age for many years until 2030 and beyond.
While there's a decent amount of weight to this wine—enough to stand up to food—the flavors seem a bit dilute, showing only hints of almond and melon.
While there's lots of candied black cherry and coffee grinds on the nose, on the palate, this medium-bodied Romanian Pinot Noir is rustic and herbaceous with balanced sour cherry fruit and notes of grass and earth. With such mild tannins, it lacks impact on the midpalate, but bright acidity carries it through a fairly long finish.
While there's no oak here, there's a heft and weight to the mouthfeel of this wine. The flavors veer toward orange and apricot jam.
While there's plenty of peachy, primary perfume, crushed slate and stone form the backbone of this deeply mineral Riesling. Dry in style, it's plush, creamy palate is balanced by a bitter edge of lime pith and savory pollen notes. It's a complex wine that should meld and intensify further over the next five years.
While there's some nice, honest fruit here, it's weighed down by heavy vanilla overtones. The finish is long enough but shows a confected element and winds up with a singed wood tone.
While there are banana aromas, the palate is rich with red fruits and ripe tannins. This wine is soft and fruity, although a tight line of acidity cuts through. The wine will be better from 2016.
While there are certainly tannins here, this wine is essentially about fruit. Stalky black currants and berries dominate this perfumed wine with its fresh acidity and crisp, clean aftertaste. Drink now.
While there are few varietal Tempranillos made in Chile, this one is mostly positive. On the nose, this is dark, with a chocolaty crust along with patented Los Lingues aromas of olive and herbs. A choppy palate is high in acidity, while flavors of heavy oak, vanilla and herbal plum finish peppery, spicy and scratchy in feel.
While there are firm tannins here, the wine also has rich fruit. The two together, allied to the concentration, promise some good aging for a solidly made wine. Fine acidity cuts through in the aftertaste. Drink from 2017.
While there are firm tannins, this wine also has plenty of fresh black currant fruits. Acidity and a crisp texture give it a lift and brightness. Drink this 100% Merlot from 2016 when the tannins have softened.
While there are hints of banana, the wine does have a firm and solid structure that suggest it will age. With its red cherry fruit and structure it's ready to drink now.
While there are not many acres of Gamay in Michigan, it seems to be an viable addition to the rows of Pinot throughout the the state's two northern AVAs. From a warmer vintage, this wine shows plenty of red cherry and strawberry alongside lightly toasted vanilla. While juicy and snappy, a light dusting of tannins offers just enough support.
While there are plenty of firm tannins and weight here, the wine does feel somewhat hollow. The red fruits are there, showing slowly against the tannins. It has fine final acidity, but not the power and concentration you should expect.
While there are plenty of firm tannins, there is also some fine red-berry fruit and layers of spice. The wine is structured as well, bringing the whole into balance. Drink this fine wine from 2018.
While there are plenty of tannins in this wine, there is also great fruit. Blackberry and plum flavors explode in the mouth. They are backed by the serious tannins and dark texture that will allow the wine to age. Drink this bold wine from 2019.
While there are plenty of toast, butter and ginger spice flavors here, this wine also shows the tight, more mineral side of Chassagne-Montrachet. It comes from the acidity and the dry edge of red apple skins. This powerful wine needs 2–3 years for the wood to calm down.
While there are plenty of wood flavors here, the wine also has fine ripe blackberries. That gives potential balance and density. This fine wine will be ready to drink from 2018.
While there are powerful tannins at work here, this wine is mainly full of rich black fruits that have a juicy side from the acidity. The addition of Tannat brings even more tannin to the wine while also giving it density and longevity. Drink from 2019. The wine comes from a long-time wine family that tended the few remaining Malbec grapes that survived phylloxera of late 1800s. Alain Gayraud is the current owner.
While there are signs of maturity, this wine still retains its original perfumed character, with aromas of spring flowers, and flavors of pear and cantaloupe.
While there are some herbal, green flavors here, this wine is more about rich tropical flavors. So peach and pineapple dominate the soft texture and ripe acidity. The aftertaste brings out more minerality and a touch of pepper. Drink now.
While there are still plenty of firm tannins, the wine also is now showing its red berry fruits and enticing texture. Great acidity cuts through the structure, giving freshness to the naturally dense character of this Grand Cru wine. It's for aging, but not for too long, so drink from 2017.
While there are strong wood flavors here, the wine also has a good rich weight from the blackberry fruits. It is a concentrated wine with spice and some dry tannins that will integrate well. Drink this fine wine from 2018.
While there are tannins, they are not as powerful as the appellation and year would suggest. Instead, there is bright acidity, strawberry flavors and a fresh feel.
While there are wood aromas and wood flavors, the wine is equally about ripe fruit and generous tannins. It has spice, red-berry fruits and a rounded structure. It will age well, giving a rich wine from 2022.
While there is a fine citrus element here, the texture also has some creamy richness. However, the almost salty character of the wine certainly places it near the ocean. Drink this year.
While there is a good structure here, this wine is spoiled by banana flavors that dominate the otherwise attractive red berry fruits. Acidity and a dry tannic core suggest some aging, so maybe the wine will round out.
While there is a herbal character to this wine, its main interest is in the ripe orange and apricot fruits. They cut easily into the acidity and the mineral edge of this attractive ready-to-drink wine.
While there is a mineral austerity to this wine, it has the potential for richness. It offers dark berries and sweet plums under the dense layer of tannins. Give it 2–3 years at least.
While there is a somewhat meaty edge to this wine, it also has good rich texture. It probably needs time to bring out the full potential of its ripe yellow fruits.
While there is a strong element of new wood in this wine, it also has plenty of ripe black fruits. So it makes a wine that is powerful, potentially complex in 4–5 years with richness and a solid, serious final character.
While there is a strongly wooded aroma, the yellow fruits shine through on the palate. Attractively rounded and soft, the wine has bright acidity, a good citrus touch and a feeling of lightness. Drink from 2016.
While there is a youthful stalky element to this wine, it also has plenty of ripe black-cherry fruit. That suggests a warm ripe future as the tannins soften. Drink this potentially rich, spicy wine from 2019.
While there is ample pear fruit on nose and palate, bitter pith notes seem to be dominant. Alcoholic heat is palpable on the midpalate. The finish is dry and returns to the fruity pear notes.
While there is an herbaceous element in this wine, it is more to do with ripe berry fruits. It has a tangy orange-zest character that is bright and fruity, along with the black-currant flavors that give the wine some good intensity.
While there is an initial barnyard edge, once that blows off, it reveals a dense and solid wine, packed with ripe black fruit and sweet tannins. The acidity brings out spice and edgy, mineral characters.
While there is certainly plenty of wood here, the wine has weight and impressive concentration for the year. The tannins are still brooding away, giving a dark firm character to the wine. Blackberry fruits and acidity are there, but still well buried in the tannins.
While there is little varietal character in this Pinot Noir, it is still an attractive, light and fruity wine. Red berries come through strongly sustaining acidity and some tight, mineral tannins. The wine is already well developed and ready to drink.
While there is little white wine in Santenay, the vines for this wine come from a small parcel near the château. It is soft and rounded, smooth and creamy. With white stone-fruit flavors lifted by light acidity, it is ready to drink now.
While there is no wood aging in this wine there is some good concentration and richness making it full-bodied, with ripe citrus and minerality. Drink from 2018.
While there is plenty of acidity in this wine, it also has red fruit character that conveys a ripe, full feeling. It's juicy and fruity, crisp but still warm at the end.
While there is plenty of fruit here, there is also a rustic, barnyard edge that is less attractive. The wood aging has produced some spicy flavors and tannins to give the wine structure.
While there is plenty of wood around in this Gonfrier family wine, the Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend also has good black currant and berry fruits. At the moment it is smoky and toasty, so it needs to soften. Drink from 2017.
While there is probably plenty of ripe fruit somewhere in this wine, it is all too much dominated by high toast wood flavors which will likely always give a tough character. It only just hints at a more generous side.
While there is some bitterness in this wine, it also has forward black fruits and a great sense of juicy acidity. It needs a little time, so don't drink before 2016.
While there is some botrytis here, this wine is not heavily into that style. Rather it shows freshness, with its white currant and grapefruit acidity and delicate perfume. There is a fine core of sweet apple skin tannins to finish.
While there is some spice here, the wine is more dominated by its acidity, fresh pear and crisp texture. It's lively, fragrant and probably best as an apéritif.
While there is some unfortunate banana flavor, the rest of this wine is attractive. It has juicy black berry flavors, an edge of citrus and final lively acidity.
While there isn't much subtlety, this is a strong wine, offering dry, oak-inspired pineapple- and orange-jam flavors. Crisp acids and a touch of steely minerals help to ground it. It shows enough elegance to drink with the finest foods.
While there was some bottle variation between two samples, this elegant Sauvignon Blanc highlights the variety's more mineral, smoky expressions. Despite six years of cellar aging, there's still plenty of crisp cutting lemon and green-apple flavors augmented by spine-tingling acidity and a long chalky finish.
While thick and dark, this brawny Syrah is elegantly structured, firm, and aged enough to be a wise choice with food. It tastes of wild blackberry—just picked—dripping off the vines.
While thick and viscous with ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit, Musician's Zin is smooth in tannins and texture. Fruit dominates to the finish with a hit of characteristic pepper on the finish.
While this bottling is always interesting, it is dependent on vintage conditions. This bottling, from the excellent 2012 harvest, is Windstream's best ever, a provocative example of a cool-climate Pinot from a fine vineyard in an excellent year. It's bone dry, tart in acidity and hugely complex, offering layers of raspberry sour candy, cherry-pie filling, persimmons, tobacco spices and just a touch of smoky oak. The mouthfeel is silky and delightful. As good as this wine is, give it at least until 2018 to develop further.
While this boxed wine smells a touch weedy and stalky, with airing you could call it “herbal” in a good way. Mildly green flavors of blackberry and plum finish solid enough. This is generic wine with both good and shaky qualities.
While this breathes alcohol, there's also requisite caramel, fig and chocolate aromas on the nose of this heavy Pedro Ximénez. Flavors of raw honey and caramel dominate a syrupy finish. Consider this for an ice cream topping rather than as a drink.
While this bubbly is technically dry, it tastes sweetly infused with the essence of strawberries and vanilla. The mouthfeel is fine, with a gentle scouring of acidity and the slight sourness from its lees. Drink it now with almost anything, especially sushi.
While this Cab is a little thin, it feels nice and tasty in the mouth. It offers ripe flavors of cherries, currants and plums that finish spicy and warm in liqueur heat.
While this Cab is basically okay, it's thin in flavor, which leaves that sharp Arroyo Seco acidity to star. It's also a little hot because there's so little fruit to modify the alcohol.
While this Cab is dry and well-structured, there's something weedy and green about it. It has flavors of dill, mint and cherries, with a sweet oakiness. Drink it now, after giving it some time in a decanter or in the glass.
While this Cab may be a touch soupy and heavy on the nose, aromas of coffee grounds and berry fruits are good. A full, blocky palate features cheek-rubbing tannins, while this tastes of coffee, chocolate and herbal berry fruits. For everyday purposes, this makes the grade.
While this Cabernet is very rich and ripe in flavors of blackberry and cherry jam, crème de cassis and new oak, it's also very tannic. That bite of astringency gives it a rustic note. A very high, Port-like alcohol level may or may not thwart cellaring plans.
While this Cabernet Sauvignon-driven blend opens with fiery, herbal aromas of plum and cherry, time helps it along. A fairly raw and juicy palate is far from cushioned, while herbal, roasted flavors of plum and currant are spicy and fold in patented Chilean flavors of olive and herbs. Drink through 2020.
While this Chardonnay has rich tropical fruit and citrus flavors, with a light touch of oak, the acidity and minerality make it taste clean and balanced. Don't drink it too cold, and be sure to enjoy it with Dungeness crab and buttered sourdough bread.
While this Chardonnay is packed with ripe pineapple, pear and tropical fruit and has decent acidity, it's awkwardly sugary and raw. Tastes like Chinese sweet and sour sauce. The fruit is good, but the wine needs to be drier.
While this Chardonnay is rich, it is also well balanced. It offers light spice, rounded yellow fruits and just a touch of minerality to give texture, plus toastiness to add interest. The end brings out the acidity.
While this Chardonnay is tropical and sweet as a whole, it's also an honest reflection of Casablanca. Aromas of honeyed apple, toast and peach are friendly, while the palate feels round and resiny, with solid core acidity. Apple, sweet melon, honey and toast flavors precede a finish where oak rises up and vies with residual tropical notes.
While this Chardonnay was aged in only 17% new French oak barrels, the oak really dominates, bearing aromas and flavors of buttered toast and butterscotch. Underneath that veneer is a tart wine with fine flavors of pineapples, oranges and pears, plus beautiful acidity and a clean, minerally finish.
While this could be considered the equivalent of a second wine for the Château Pech de Jammes estate, it is in a modern, fruity style, which sets it apart from the Château wine. Bold, ripe and generous fruits give blackberry flavors alongside a lively, perfumed character. The wine is ready to drink.
While this dense wine has plenty of firm tannins, it also has fine, ripe fruit. Rich blackberry flavors and smoky aromas dominate. Drink from 2020.
While this doesn't quite rival the great 2007, it is superior to the 2008. Rich, concentrated and structured, this has forward black-cherry, chocolate, anise and sandalwood flavors that are wrapped in firm but smooth, supple tannins. It should develop in the bottle over the next six years, but it can also be consumed now.
While this domaine is based in Chaintré it also has vines in Pouilly-Fuissé. This wine comes from a 2.4-acre vineyard on the clay and chalk soil that marks this appellation. It is rich, full in the mouth with a mineral texture and lively acidity. It is still young and will be better from late 2017.
While this Ducourt wine does have wood-aging flavors, it also has plenty of black-currant fruitiness to bring out the crisp character. The ripe Merlot of the vintage is very evident in this potentially delicious wine. Drink from 2018.
While this foamy rosé is not elevated, it should appeal to those who like sweet Moscato bubblies. Candied flavors of raspberry, lychee and dried mango finish with a note of pineapple syrup.
While this Grüner does not give away too much on its rather closed nose, the savory hints of pepper, arugula, pear and thyme unite beautifully and insistingly on the midpalate. The wine gets full marks for refreshing, authentic typicity.
While this has a tight-lipped nose at first—offering reticent scents of grilled herb, game and leather polish—it does open up with air. Flavor wise, it is much more outgoing, with notes of dark stone fruit framed by chewy tannins and comfortable acids.
While this has a tight corset of freshness and structure, expressive notes of peach show their exuberance. The palate again reveals tautness, shot through with lemon purity while the peach delightfully plays around them.
While this has some lean tannins, the wine offers ripe red fruit and berry character to balance. It's structured, still young and getting its tannins together. Drink this fresh, structured and juicy wine from 2018.
While this high-elevation (4,035 feet) white Garnacha is mostly neutral smelling, it offers stony notes that are direct, minerally and clean. On the palate, it is tightly wound and showing vital malic acid. Salty but fresh persimmon and quince flavors are lasting on the finish. For a 2014, this is in fine shape; drink now.
While this is 100% varietal and entirely fermented in stainless steel, it opens with a vibrant note of green apple. That apple quality gives way on the palate to light grassy peach and nectarine, finishing crisp and clean.
While this is a bit rustic and herbal on first take, with time it settles and improves. Aromas of tomato and berry fruits lead to a crisp, firm palate with earthy plum, black cherry and herbal flavors. A soft fade away with earthy, baked notes doesn't hurt.
While this is a bit scratchy and rugged up front, that's Toro in a nutshell. In the mouth, things are built like a brick house, while flavors of cassis and berry come with a medicinal note and chocolaty richness. Licorice, pepper and more chocolate flavor define the finish on this stout Tinta de Toro. Drink through 2018.
While this is a firm wine, full of dry tannins and smoky wood-aging flavors, it also has plenty of ripe and juicy fruit. Red berry and black currant show strongly, filling the wine out and promising roundness as it ages. Drink from 2017.
While this is a good, sound Cabernet, it is not the winery's finest effort. Dry in style with black currant flavors that are austere, the wine is more notable for its tannins and acidity. Drink up.
While this is a Moscato, it's unlike most of the Moscatos out there on the market. For one thing, it's bone dry. Without the distracting taste of honey, you can really taste the underlying citrus fruits and white flowers, as well as a stimulating minerality. The acidity is excellent.
While this is a nonvintage wine, it is still very young and will benefit from time in bottle. That will allow the rich apple and crisp lemon flavors to round out, calming the intense acidity. The potential of this rich wine is considerable.
While this is a rich wine, it also has a more fruity character that brings out acidity and a streak of freshness. It's firm at the moment, reflecting a need for aging. Dense and full of berry fruits, it will be best drunk from 2017.
While this is aged in barrel, the wood influence doesn't quite work for Arinto, which is a lively, fruity varietal. The result is a wine that is laden with toast and textured with vanilla, and it comes with an edge of bitter lemon. The wood will soften, but it will always be present.
While this is almost ready to drink, with its fruity pear and apple flavors, beneath the surface, the wine is much more serious. It has a rich feel to it, touched by toast and a hint of honey, it has a firm wood aging character, a firm structure and considerable potential. Drink from 2018.
While this is big, powerful and rich, it keeps a sense of proportion and elegance. A dark chocolate flavor and firm tannins show the wood influence, while the rich blueberry-compote note brings in both texture and fruitiness. This needs at least 6–7 years.
While this is certainly a young fruity wine, it also has a soft texture to go with the juicy black fruits to make it ready to drink now. It is smoky, lightly tannic and packed full of ripe fruits.
While this is certainly crisp, it also has a rich, creamy undertow giving the green plum and herb flavors some warmth and ripeness. It's ready to drink, but could age a year or two.
While this is certainly herbaceous, it also carries richer fruit flavors like apricots and melon to go with the grapefruit acidity. That gives it a rounded texture, full in the mouth and with a touch of minerality. Age this impressive wine another 1–2 years.
While this is certainly on the higher end of South African Shiraz price points, it's worth the investment. The intense bouquet is loaded with rich dark cherry, raspberry, sweet spice and small wild strawberries. All-spice and pepper dominate the creamy mouth, with opulent flavors of meaty plum, roasted espresso and black cherry guts. Full and powerful in the mouth with a strong vanilla-accented finish. Delicious now but worthy of cellar time as well.
While this is crisp and fresh, it also has an attractive, round vanilla flavor that provides a smooth, creamy texture. It's refreshing with apple and pear flavors, with appealing acidity on the finish.
While this is currently a tough proposition, the inherent fruitiness of this structured wine augurs well for its future. With berry fruits under the dark tannins and some slight bitterness from wood aging, it needs time. Drink from 2017.
While this is currently firm and closed, it promises fine things to come. Weight and richness combine with a solid core of tannins. The intense, refreshing acidity is a counterpoint to the ripe black-plum flavor. With all of this concentration, this should age for over 5–6 years.
While this is dry in style, it exhibits all of the varietal's ebullient rose and lychee tones. It has vibrant acidity and an intense, honeyed palate that's full of rich citrus and tea leaf notes. This is full bodied, with a lingering finish.
While this is dry, it is enormously rich in orange and guava flavors, with an oaky overlay that tastes sweet in buttered toast and vanilla. Salmon or lamb with a fruity tapenade or salsa should make for a great pairing.
While this is fiery on the nose, you also get attractive, complex aromas of baked cherry, brandied plum, leather, coffee and chocolate. The flavor profile consists of red berry, chocolaty oak and spice, and things conclude with savory, roasted flavors cut by lasting acidity. This is a powerful, tannic yet sophisticated Nebbiolo that should improve with more time in the bottle.
While this is full bodied, with an unctuous quality, it has plenty of acidity to keep the palate feeling lively and defined. The notes of butterscotch, candied apple and citrus blossom are pleasing, leading to a brisk and slightly warm finish.
While this is immensely oaky on the nose, that wood and char works because it comes with ripe cassis, blackberry and raisin scents. Chewy, ultraripe and tannic on the palate, this tastes of sweet black fruits, chocolaty oak and wood. An oaky reprise is front and center on a grabby stacked finish. Drink through 2023.
While this is largely neutral-smelling, it's flush in the mouth, with pithy citrus and green apple flavors. Lasting and steady on the finish, this blend of Chardonnay and Muscat is juicy and alert after initial dull aromas. Maritime Wine Trading Collective, Vintage Wines Inc.
While this is lightweight for a Douro wine, it does have a backbone of tannin. It is warm, with its damson jelly flavors giving a reassuring winter feel. The texture shows dusty tannins and a final juicy character. Screwcap.
While this is obviously Sauvignon Blanc, it also has some rich creaminess that makes it more rounded and rich. The citrus and crisp apple flavors are well-integrated into this ripe wine.
While this is packed with ripe fruit, it is balanced with a dense tannic underlay and judicious wood aging. With this structure, the wine should age for several years.
While this is piercing, aggressive and herbal on the nose, there's enough rustic authenticity, licorice and cherry character to push it along. A raw palate offers oak-based flavors of vanilla and coconut but also tart plum and currant. A wiry, shearing finish tastes oaky and feels hard.
While this is pink fizz, its intent is serious and showcases the structure of Pinot Noir. The palate is dry and displays some pleasant bitterness around the edges, accentuating both dryness and austerity. This will work better at the table—say with salmon sashimi—rather than as an apéritif. This is a serious wine, so explore its hidden charms.
While this is rich, it is also balanced and elegant. This is an impressive, ageworthy wine, with a perfumed, spicy character. It has white fruit and peach flavors and taut acidity. Screwcap.
While this is soft and fruity, it lacks all varietal resemblance. Drink it as a ripe red rather than as a Pinot Noir.
While this is stout and dark up front, the nose comes with a note of stewed fruit. The thick, tannic palate is grabby and resiny in feel, while flavors of raw oak taste lactic, and the berry fruit component in the wine is loamy and feels big and blocky.
While this is supple and rich with loads of sweet blackberry and blueberry fruit, the penetrating minerality and a swathe of fresh flower and herb add depth and grace to this lovely Merlot. The tannins are still quite taut, yet they're ripe in nature. It drinks deliciously now, but it's structured enough to improve over the next five years.
While this is the most tannic of Envy's wines, it's also made in the house style of soft, fruity approachability. Forward and lush with blackberry jam, currant and spice flavors, it shows an impeccable balance. Wonderful now and over the next 3–4 years.
While this is the top wine of a major Cahors estate, it is impressive how restrained it is. Sure, the wood and dense brooding black fruits are there, but they have been subtly controlled by the freshness of the wine and its great balance. With its richness, still youthful fruit and its structure it will need aging. Drink from 2020.
While this isn't easy to identify as Shiraz, it still qualifies as a good, everyday red wine. Rubbery berry aromas come with a pinch of spearmint, while the palate feels juicy and racy. Berry and mild oak flavors finish with a chocolate note and a rubbery accent.
While this isn't in the same league as the winery's stunning Alexander reserve-style bottling of Cabernet, it's an approximation of it and, at about one-third the price, a pretty good value. The wine is rich in blackberry, currant and cedar flavors, and balanced with gorgeous tannins, showing true Napa elegance. Drink now–2012.
While this may not be the strongest Clos de Sixte the Jaume family has made, it's still a very good effort. The red fruit aromas and flavors seem slightly confectionary, but carry enough pie-cherry flavors to see them through, backed by hints of dark chocolate. The tannins are supple, turning to a cocoa-powder texture on the crisp finish. Drink now–2018.
While this needs a little air, the nose is spicy, full of that Zweigelt pepper, with subtle but gorgeously aromatic notes of violets and black cherries. This is understated and seductive. The floral, spiced fruit continues throughout the slender but concentrated palate and makes for a lovely, clean, evocative and lasting finish. It's elegance rather than power that convinces here. Hurray to that.
While this opens slowly, it conveys notions of yellow pear and aloe vera. These turn into full-blown fruit on the textured palate that also shows off a limey tang and enticing green pepper.
While this opens with harmless aromas of lychee and tropical fruits, the palate sizzles with sharp citric acidity. Flavors of pithy grapefruit and tangerine finish grabby, tart and aggressive. This is not nearly as good as the two prior vintages.
While this opens with sharp citric aromas, there's no denying that it's fresh up front. Linear, pinchy and high in acid, this rosé of Malbec tastes of nectarine and citrus fruits. A slightly round oily finish holds onto snappy fresh flavors.
While this Pinot has gorgeous, generous raspberry, cola, mushroom and sweet oak flavors, it also possesses a superb structure of tannins and acids that makes it successful. In that sense, it's a masterful balance of power and elegance, and is distinctly Pinot Noir-esque in its silky texture. Drink now–2017, depending on your taste for older Pinot.
While this Pinot is huge in fruit and has a big, heavyweight mouthfeel, somehow it never loses its sense of delicacy and charm. The flavors are the essence of cherries: ripe, sweet and intense. This richness is balanced by the earthiness of a wild mushroom risotto. With brilliant acidity, it's a wonderfully rewarding wine, easily on par with the 2009, perhaps a shade better. The grapes come from the famed Sierra Madre Vineyard.
While this Pinot is silky in texture, with pleasant cherry cola and oak flavors, it's a tough wine with a somewhat harsh mouthfeel.
While this Sauvignon Blanc seems to have some sweetness, it also has crisp acidity and pleasing minerality that gives the citrus and tropical fruit flavors a tang. It would pair nice with Vietnamese noodle dishes or chicken tacos.
While this shows its youthful tannins, it also bears blackberry fruit and juicy acidity. The chateau has produced a stylish wine that's rich while still keeping plenty of freshness and acidity. Age for 3–4 years.
While this shows the concentration of the vines that were planted in the 1940s, it also has a tight, lean quality and considerable acidity. Its fruit is still subdued by the structure, and it needs 3–4 years to become round.
While this shows the ripeness of the vintage, it remains very minerally in style, with a lemony crispness to match with its white fruit flavor, tight texture and taut finish.
While this smells a bit rough and herbal, it's more generous than the winery's varietal Tannat. This Merlot has some of the same scratchy qualities of the Tannat, but it shows more body and richness as well as riper black-fruit flavors.
While this smells a touch green and scratchy, there's enough berry and plum to the nose to get it going in a good way. Fresh and medium-bodied, this tastes of medicinal cherry and plum along with herbs. The finish tastes similar.
While this smells almost entirely like a barrel, the palate avoids being resiny and instead comes across as fresh and balanced. Oaky flavors are unavoidable, while melony fruit notes on the finish are dosed up with wood spice and a shot of freshening acidity.
While this smells directly from the Old World, it's appealing and unique in style for Argentina. For starters, it's mature, bordering on old. Because of vital acidity, it's in good shape, with stewed berry, tobacco, spice and chocolate flavors. On the finish, pepper and bitter coffee notes enter the picture. Drink this one-of-a-kind Merlot now.
While this smells floral and candied, the palate rages, courtesy of strapping acidity that creates tart plum and blueberry flavors.
While this smells plump, mealy and soft, it's decidedly acidic and citrusy in the mouth. In terms of feel, it's limited and monotone, while the flavors run toward vanilla, orange and oak. The finish is fleeting finish and light on flavor.
While this smells slightly briny and gritty, there's controlled energy and a sense of quality to the palate. Peppery, dry flavors of apple and peach are lasting on a stone-fruity-heavy finish.
While this Stephané Derenoncourt wine has dry tannins, it also has ripe fruit and blackberry flavors. Concentrated and firm for now, from 18 months in barrel, it will develop well to give a rich wine in the future. Drink from 2019.
While this structured wine has firm tannins, it also holds the potential of warm red-cherry fruits and acidity. It is concentrated, structured and ripe. Drink from late 2016.
While this takes a while to open up, what follows is worth waiting for. It discloses a rounded richness composed of yeasty layers interspersed with ripe pear, stone fruit and ivy leaves. It also offers shimmers of apricot and juicy, yellow pear, with a more salty verve of grapefruit zest around the edges. Texture and acidity are the twin pillars of structure on this ripe and rounded wine that should be cellared to give its best. Drink from 2018.
While this Tempranillo is straightforward in style, it does have some good cherry, herb tea and cola flavors. It's rich and soft, but has a pleasant burst of acidity.
While this Tempranillo smells rustic and horsey, it performs better on the palate, which is thick but flat in feel. Rustic, leathery black-fruit flavors finish hot.
While this vineyard is close by the Russian River and is not considered the best of Rochioli's vineyards, winemaker Bob Cabral consistently makes its grapes into one of Williams Selyem's most compelling wines. This shows the impeccable tannins and acids of Rochioli fruit, with sweet, ripe, deep flavors of cherry and spice. Notes of pomegranate, rum punch, dark chocolate and smoky sandalwood add complexity. Beautiful to drink now, it should continue to develop for at least 10 years.
While this was not a generally declared Vintage, there are many attractive, structured single-quinta Ports, such as this. It has ripe sweet black plum and dried prune flavors along with just the right tannic structure to let it age further. While it is drinkable now for its fruit, it will be so much better from 2020.
While this wine's moniker literally translates as “scantily dressed,” it is derived from the name of the vineyard. The wine is light and crisply fruity, with red-currant fruit and plenty of acidity. It is ready to drink.
While this wine's Mount Eden sister bottling may better stand the test of time, the Domaine Eden is what most people will most like to drink right now, and it's cheaper too. Aromas of dried violets, uncrushed boysenberries and pencil lead make for an ethereal nose that seems to hold secrets one must uncover. Precise tannins on the palate offer floral yet savory flavors of black sesame, nori, violet and mulberry. It's mellow yet mysterious.
While this wine allows plenty of room for ripe voluptuousness, it opens in a light, sublime sense of green apple and lime zest, with a nice tension of acidity on the balanced palate. A slight hint of ginger and lemongrass tease in the background.
While this wine certainly has a firmly tannic character, it is the fruit that shines. Black currants and perfumed spicy berry fruits are right up there along with the juicy acidity. This is a blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. It is well balanced although it needs to age. Drink from 2018.
While this wine certainly has a tannic background, it is already showing fruitiness and ripe berry and red plum flavors. That makes for a warm, rounded wine that will age relatively quickly. Drink from 2016.
While this wine comes out of the chute loaded with toast, mocha and brown sugar-inflected oak, the wood falls appropriately into the background on the palate, allowing cassis fruit to come forward. It's firm and tannic, with a powerful structure that requires a few years to come into perfect balance; try it after 2020.
While this wine comes out of the gate showing little but earth and dark fruit aromas, it lightens and develops more delineation with air, eventually revealing berry, plum and spice notes. Right now, the flavors are almost jammy, so purists may want to wait a few years before opening a bottle. Full-bodied, chewy and rich, this superripe Hermitage should age well for up to 15 years.
While this wine demonstrates the telltale cool element of the appellation, it also offers ripe fruit, pear and peach flavors lightly layered with wood. The wine is crisp at the end, with a mineral aftertaste. Drink from 2016.
While this wine does have firm tannins, it also offers a ripe, fruity backdrop that will develop. At the moment, the wine is dry and dense. Give it a few months for the red fruits to broaden out. Drink from mid-2016.
While this wine does have structure, it also offers some lean fruitiness. Plum skins, banana and tight black-currant flavors dominate, cut through with acidity. The wine has structure and some potential. Drink from late 2016.
While this wine does have sweetness, its great character comes from its structure and spiciness. It is rich, full in the mouth, ripe and concentrated. Even at four years old, it is youthful and closed still, and needs some time in the cellar. Drink from 2015.
While this wine does not age in wood, it does age on its lees, giving it a rich, creamy texture. It's smooth, full and soft, its apricot and peach flavors showing ripeness and openness. Drink from 2018.
While this wine from a year that was not declared as a vintage, it has sweetness and ripe caramel and toffee character and it does, inevitably, show some age. So the acidity and intense wood flavors are dominant, giving a wine that is dry while still very drinkable. It is a Port that is so concentrated and dense—the distillation of a tawny. Drink this impressive wine now.
While this wine has a strong tannic structure, it also offers plenty of ripe fruit. Acidity is kept in its place, giving freshness allied to warm berries. Drink this attractive wine from 2016.
While this wine has both fine tannins and a steely, mineral structure, it also offers generous ripe berry fruits that give fresh acidity and a full-bodied feel. The wine is made to be drunk young and fruity, almost now, certainly by 2016.
While this wine has eye-watering acidity, it also has a sweet backdrop of fruit candies and lemon tang. It is ready to drink.
While this wine has fruit and a juicy apple flavor, it also displays a less attractive earthy character. This may decrease after a few more months in bottle.
While this wine has generous swathes of ripe fruit, it also has plenty of the dark tannins that are found in the northern part of the appellation. It is dense in character, packed equally with concentrated tannins and with red-berry fruits. The wine will age well; drink from 2022.
While this wine has high acidity, it also offers attractive fruitiness. It is light and bright, with a layer of spice and pepper. Drink the wine now.
While this wine has hints of a green herbal character, its main character conveys creamed apples and even riper fruits such as white peach. It is soft and lightly textured with just a touch of final acidity. Drink now.
While this wine has Napa elegance, it never completely loses the varietal's rustic edge. It's rich in briary berries, cola, tobacco and white pepper flavors, and it comes with an overripe, raisiny sweetness.
While this wine has obviously seen plenty of wood aging, it's also full of dark blackberry fruit. Together, those qualities give density and structure, with acidity and fruitiness to match. Drink from 2021.
While this wine has pleasant fruit, there are also some dark edges of black berries and rough tannins. The focus is shaded, still developing.
While this wine has plenty of tannins, the generous blackberry fruits dominate. It is balanced with a fresh character that brings out just the right amount of acidity. The dry core will allow the wine to develop. Drink from 2018.
While this wine has roundness and a ripe, rich character, it is also fresh, aromatic and cut with intense acidity. A touch of honey gives a softer, almost sweeter edge to this otherwise crisp wine. It is still bringing the fruit and the mineral texture together, so drink from 2018.
While this wine has slightly rustic aromas, the flavor is lively, ripe and bright with good acidity and a thrust of steel that gives minerality. Tight and crisp, the wine will take a while to develop. Drink from 2018.
While this wine has the crispness of Chablis, it also has weight and concentration. The bright green-apple flavor is underpinned by a sense of minerality. Nervy, tense yet fruity, this can age for 2–3 years.
While this wine has the right piercing, shattering acidity of an eiswein, there's a toffee/caramel element that takes away from its purity. Perfumes are good, and there's a lively touch of white fruit.
While this wine has wood aromas, the palate also shows plenty of fruit. That combination gives it weight, spice and red-currant flavors along with juiciness. The wine has plenty of development ahead. Drink from 2019.
While this wine is a majority varietal, it blends in Syrah, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, each co-fermented with the Cab. The tannin weight is pronounced, adding to the richness and concentration of blackberry jam and black pepper, the tannins leathery and lengthy.
While this wine is big on acidity, it does offer ripe, fresh blackberries and currants along with a firmer tannic background. Drink from 2016.
While this wine is certainly dry, it holds a hint of honey in the baked-apple flavor and tight texture. It's still very young and needs to open up until 2015 to give a less shocking, more rounded acidity.
While this wine is certainly sweet with yellow fruits and plenty of ripe honey flavors, it also has a beautiful streak of acidity that allows the wine to be crisply textured. There are spice, great fruitiness and a bright tight aftertaste. Drink now, or better from 2020.
While this wine is clean and vibrant, it tastes off dry. With its honeyed finish and flavors of peach, nectarine and apricot jam, this is one of the most pleasant California Rieslings on the market. It's easy to drink with ham, sausage and slightly sweet Asian fare.
While this wine is concentrated with firm tannins, the rich fruit dominates. It is dark, complex and rich, filled with black-plum flavors and a good structure. Intense juiciness character complements the tannins, giving a ripe wine that can age. Drink from 2018.
While this wine is crisp and clean, and the price is right, it's a little thin in flavor. Suggests peaches, pears and citrus fruits that finish with a touch of honey. It's okay for everyday food, especially Asian.
While this wine is dark and packed with tannins, it has the fruit weight potential to compensate. It is a firm wine, solid with ripe tannins and blackberry flavors. The acidity at the end promises a good future, so drink from 2022. Lucien Lurton took over Bouscaut in 1979. Since 1992, has been in the hands of daughter Sophie Lurton and her husband Laurent Cogombles. Investments include vineyard renovation, a barrel cellar in 2010 and a B&B in 2013.
While this wine is dry and crisp with acidity, it straddles the border of ripeness. On the plus side are vibrant lemon, lime and honey flavors. On the downside is a green, feline streak.
While this wine is dry and firm, it is also full of ripe black-plum-skin flavors and juicy acidity. The two together have produced a wine that should be ready to drink from 2018.
While this wine is dry, it offers good fruit weight that will fill out as it matures. It has a smoky character with juicy red-berry fruits in the background. Drink from 2020.
While this wine is dry, its warm strawberry fruit rounds out its character with a softness. Lemon sherbet acidity gives another touch of almost sweetness. Drink now.
While this wine is dry, the spice and creamy, ripe texture give a warm, rich feel. It has weight, baked apple fruit and a touch of spice. Ready to drink.
While this wine is firm at the moment, it does have fine black fruits. The acidity from the blackberry fruitiness is going to balance with the tannins shortly to give a ripe and fruity wine. Drink from 2018.
While this wine is firm, with some fine tannins, it also has a pure line in fresh strawberry fruits that will develop as the tannins soften. This perfumed wine will develop slowly. Drink from 2020.
While this wine is full, it has an indistinct character. A soft texture and only light fruitiness leave a dull impression.
While this wine is herbaceous, the attractive aspect lies in its lemon and orange zest flavors that are full and bright. It's crisp while deliciously fruity, ready to drink.
While this wine is labeled "dry," it's technically not. There's some sugar left in it, it just seems dry if you compare it to the winery's regular, semi-dry version. Aromas of spiced pears and musky, evening flowers blend with flavors of pears, peaches and dried spices.
While this wine is lean initially, it also shows weight and the potential of ripe fruits. Concentrated tannins still allow room for a little juicy fruit. The overall effect is of structure triumphing over fruitiness. Made by the team at Domaine de Chevalier, the wine will take time to develop. Drink from 2019.
While this wine is less expensive than some of Corley Family's other Cabernets, it's beautiful. Blended with one-quarter Cabernet Franc, it's softly tannic, acidic and rich in black cherries, black and red currants and smoky sandalwood. Drink this flashy wine through 2022.
While this wine is not powerful, it has elegance to go with the ripe fruit, fresh honey, lemon flavors and a core of dense dryness. With this vintage, Rayne Vigneau seems to be back where its vineyard, next to Yquem, suggests it should be.
While this wine is packed with red-berry flavors, it is still too young with its stalky edge. Tannins and smoky flavors are there along with intense acidity. Keep it until late 2016 for it to be at its best.
While this wine is rich and spicy, it also has a strong mineral element that cuts into the honeyed, ripe character. It's a smooth wine with potential. Drink from 2017.
While this wine is rich, it is also well balanced with perfumed acidity and a tight, mineral edge. Ripe with red berry fruits, it is dry and full in the mouth. Both fresh and rich at the same time, it will be better with food.
While this wine is rich, its tight texture brings out the minerality. Yellow fruits and toast are balanced with zingy acidity for a wine that will need time to broaden out. Drink from 2021.
While this wine is still dense and tannic, it also has great layers of blackberry and black plum fruits that give richness. So although it is structured, it is also full and ripe, hinting at a delicious, generous future. Drink from 2018.
While this wine is still young, it has great fruit and a good structure. Tense tannins lend form to ripe red fruits, with a touch of cigar-box aromas and a rich texture. This wine will show how well Chinon can age. Drink from 2018.
While this wine is unoaked, it still carries a strong whiff of sulfur and popcorn that doesn't really dissipate. The palate offers good feel and is balanced between weight and acidity. Flavors of melon and applesauce are round and end in a swirl of sweet pear.
While this wine shows its wood aging strongly, it is likely that the fruit will be able to push through the spice and heavy toast as it matures. Drink from 2018.
While this wine shows plenty of wood at this young stage, it also has good fruit and tannins. It needs some time to develop and to integrate the wood. Drink from 2020.
While this wine shows some of the softness and richness of 2003, it keeps a light touch and the acidity and black fruits remain fresh. There is an edge of astringency that leaves a hard aftertaste.
While this wine starts out a bit reductive, it subsequently explodes with aromas of dried herbs and generous amounts of black pepper. It's palate-coating and mesmerizing in feel, showing a dazzling sense of texture, lightness and richness.
While this young wine is dry now, it has good potential with rich fruits developing well. Dark and firm at the moment, it will become a generous rounded wine as it ages. The 30-acre Etienne Barre and Christophe Reboul Salze estate is managed by the Stephane Derenoncourt team. Drink from 2019.
While this Zin is high in alcohol, which gives it some peppery heat, it's dry and complex. The flavors range from ripe blackberry, blueberry and currant to dark chocolate, licorice and warm-climate Zin spice. The vineyard contains 80-year-old vines, grown in the mountains above the valley floor, which explains the wine's unique concentration.
While tight and mineral focused, this dry, featherweight Riesling seems to accumulate depth and body with each sip. It's brisk and spry, but a delicious streak of lanolin lends a waxy sheen that amplifies delicate notes of apple, pear and blossom. A strike of zesty lime acidity enlivens the finish. Drink now–2019.
While tinged with savory complexities of wet earth, spice and game, this densely structured Cabernet Franc is anchored by a core of ripe blackberry and black cherry flavors. Zesty acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins lend a tightness of structure that should hold up well through 2025.
While toast and spice are prominent on the nose, oak notes integrate elegantly on the palate of this plush, full-bodied Bordeaux-style blend. It's juicy and fruit forward, with soft, chalky tannins showcasing sultry, ripe cassis and blackberry flavors.
While unabashedly sweet and simple, this luscious, lip-smacking wine is full of ripe pink grapefruit and tangerine flavors. Zippy acidity sharpens the midpalate and drives a lingering, fresh finish. Drink now through 2019.
While unctuously honeyed from nose to finish, this elegantly balanced spätlese also conveys a purity of fruit. It's richly concentrated in white-peach and yellow-cherry flavors but invigoratingly brisk. The finish is marked by hints of pollen and spring blossom.
While unoaked, this tropical swirl of mango, guava and pineapple is unabashedly rich in style. Decadent caramel and butterscotch notes are a bit on the confected side but clean up tidily against a streak of sunny lemon on the mid palate. Drink through 2019.
While unusual for the variety, the herb, lemon and orange zest, berry, green pepper and asphalt aromas provide intrigue. The fruit flavors are plump but light, showing good length. This wine provides enjoyment, though Merlot wouldn't be a first guess.
While unusually perfumey, this dry, full-bodied Pinot Gris balances pleasant apple and pear flavors with a striking lemon acidity. Robustly structured, a slight warming sensation adds to the finish.
While very flavorful, this wine is more of a dessert drink than a lunch or dinner wine. It smells sweet and earthy, feels unctous and tastes sweet, especially on the finish.
While very fruity, fresh and ripe tasting, this medium-bodied wine also has good acidity for balance. Light touches of vanilla, butter and nutmeg add welcome complexity.
While we'd suggest waiting for the 2007 to hit the market, this softer-styled wine is showing mature melon, tropical fruit and bee's wax aromas in front of mild citrus, lemon and pineapple flavors. It has a medium-weight body and almost a honeyed roundness. Drink now.
While whiffs of bramble, white mushroom and earth are savory on the nose, the palate of this full-bodied Cabernet Franc is bright and fruity. Juicy black-cherry and berry flavors are forward and fresh, marked by crisp acidity and ripe persistent tannins.
While wood aging is an integral part of fine Bordeaux, with this wine it is just too much. While it is young, the wood, raw and dominant, submerges the fruit to give a wine that is dense, very dry and hard at the edges. It's not likely to ever lose this quality.
While wood aromas are prominent now, this ultimately showcase the ripe red fruits that lie underneath. It has a solid core of tannins, which is balanced by the juicy fruit. Age for 6–7 years.
While youthful tannins play an important part in this dense wine, so does the black fruit character. It's balanced, with the wood toast adding extra complexity. Ripe, while structured, it will age over several years.
While zesty and mineral on the nose, this dry Grauburgunder, or Pinot Gris, is ripe and concentrated in yellow cherry and grapefruit flavors. Racy acidity cuts through the sunny palate, uncovering a pleasant bristle of white tea astringency on the finish. Drink now through 2017.
While zesty lime notes stand firm from start to finish, plump, white peach and tangerine flavors seem to melt into the palate of this off-dry Riesling. Lavish, yet composed, it's a showcase of ripeness maintained in balance. An irresistible sip, pour after pour.
While zesty on the nose with lime and lemon aromas, this off-dry Riesling is surprisingly ripe and tropical on the palate. Peach nectar and pineapple flavors are pleasant, but there's a slightly dusty, herbaceous note that lingers on the brisk finish.
Whimsically feline packaging aside, this fruity and forward Pinot Grigio does a good job balancing bright luscious stone fruit against refreshing lemon-lime acidity. It's an easygoing, widely appealing dry white at a bargain price. Drink now.
Whispers of brioche and spice lend warmth to concentrated flavors of pressed apple and pear in this traditional Champagne blend. It's intensely frothy and foamy on the palate but bright lemon-lime acidity tightens up the finish.
Whispers of charred wood, ripe bramble and earth add an elegant rusticity to this Pinot Noir's subtle black-cherry flavor. This is delicately structured, with bright, brisk acidity and a hint of dried mushroom that linger on the palate.
Whispers of cherry blossoms and briar patch add flair to the sweet black-cherry and blackberry flavors. Dry in style, with notes of fresh and dried herbs, it's a perfect pairing for an elegant late-summer barbecue.
Whispers of fresh green herbs and lavender lend elegance and refreshment to intensely ripe yet pristine black cherry and plum flavors. The palate is succulent and juicy, marked by crisp, cutting acidity. Fine, velvety tannins cushion a long finish. Drinks well now but should hold beautifully till at least 2024.
Whispers of fresh green herbs lend elegance and restraint to this impeccably balanced Bordeaux-style red. Juicy, lip smacking red fruit shines on the midpalate, anchored against zesty acidity and nuances of earth, game and woodsy spices. Delicate in tannins, it's approachable already but should drink well through 2025.
Whispers of leather and granitic soil lend rugged appeal to this slightly savory, subdued Merlot. Bright acidity adds lift and light to the midpalate, accentuating flavors of crisp black cherry and cassis. It's supple and round, yet finishes curt and brisk.
Whispers of saffron and pollen lend mineral intensity to succulent yellow peach and cherry notes in this juicy yet revitalizing Riesling. It's semisweet in style with a dancing, lacy sugariness that lingers gently on the palate.
Whispers of smoke and crushed stone add an interesting element to the fleshy, ripe peach and lychee flavors. A tad sugary on attack, but it finishes dry, with a hint of bitter tea-leaf notes.
Whispers of smoke and flint on the nose of this intensely minerally Sauvignon Blanc blow off to reveal a bright, elegantly balanced wine with hints of fresh green grass and stems. It's brisk and refreshing, with an easy drinking feel.
Whispers of smoke and fresh herb are a counterpoint to the heady notes of white flower, sweet peach and melon on this gorgeous Bordeaux-style. It's elegantly composed, with a rich, creamy texture, a bristle of acidity and a crushed-stone minerality. This is undeniably a top pick from Long Island.
Whispers of smoke, toast and nut mingle amidst ripe blackerries and bramble in this full-bodied St. Laurent. It's softly structured, framed by feather-light tannins and a juiciness that's attractive for drinking now.
Whispers of tobacco leaf and cherry cola on the nose combine with a palate full of ripe black cherries on Hazlitt's easygoing, everyday Cabernet Franc. Soft tannins accented by woody notes of bramble and dried herbs make for a smooth, earthy finish.
Whispy and lightweight on the nose, with hints of celery, sweat and passion fruit. There's not a ton to say about this pedestrian but well-made Sauvignon. It is citrusy with a touch of bell pepper, and it finishes in a comfortable way. Classic everyday SB from Casablanca is what this tastes, smells and feels like. Drink now.
Whistler Vineyard is an extreme site on the coast above Annapolis, and a source of Pinot Noir for other producers. Here, it is working with a suitcase clone from Condrieu, fermenting the grapes in entirely new French oak. Honey, clove and apricot jump from the glass, with a blithe spirit of minerality and light body that provides plenty of refreshment. Made in tiny amounts.
Whitcraft has produced a fine, complex young Syrah from the Stolpman Vineyard, in the emerging Ballard Canyon Region. The wine is tannic, with deep flavors of blackberries, red and black currants, grilled meat, tobacco, wild herbs, black pepper and cedar wood. While it's a bit hot in alcohol, it seems balanced enough to age, allowing the tannins and other elements resolve. Try after 2015.
White-flower and citrus aromas are mild. In the mouth, this is cutting and acidic. Flavors of lemon and pineapple are tart and come in short blasts, while the finish is cleansing and crisp, with a strong sense of minerality.
White-flower aromas and little more define the nose on this bland wine from hot Jumilla. A flabby mouthfeel sets up green banana and pyrazine-based flavors. Papaya is the only discernible flavor note on an otherwise soft and creamy finish.
White-flower aromas are a touch yeasty, like animal crackers. This feels plump but maintains a sense of freshness. Citrus and nectarine flavors are generic but good, while this is lasting on the finish, with notes of grape-skin extract and pyrazines.
White-fruit and melon aromas are widespread and mellow. This is chalky feeling, with citric acidity in charge. Flavors of apple, nectarine and lime finish clean and typical of the variety and region.
White-fruit aromas and a prickly scent of cactus or nettle opens this tight, citrusy old-vines Verdejo. Matching the aromas, this tastes of pithy citrus, grapefruit and green herbs. A racy finish fades out nicely.
White-fruit aromas are generic but satisfactory. This mix of Viura and Chardonnay is plump to the point of being slightly cloying. Candied melon and lime flavors finish short, with residual sweetness.
White-fruit aromas are generic up front and a bit stalky if examined more closely. The palate feels good but typical, while flavors of peach and apricot are chunky and turn a touch bitter on the finish. Drink now.
White-fruit aromas are without frills. Like the nose, this wine feels fresh and clean. Flavors of white peach and slightly underripe honeydew are mild and don't force anything on a pleasant finish.
White-fruit aromas of apple and green melon are slightly yeasty. This feels round, with enough weight and body to absorb amplified acidity. Flavors of melon and apple are dry and salty, while this is clean and secure on the finish.
White-fruit aromas of pear, apple and melon are decent. This feels round but not exact. Chunky flavors of apple and melon are low on zest and freshness, while the finish feels heavy and is salty in taste.
White-fruit aromas suggest peach and melon, but there's also some sourness and green thrown in. Acidic but fresh in the mouth, with citrusy flavors of lime and grapefruit. Acutely citric on the finish, with a hint of asparagus.
White-fruit aromas, brine and clam shell notes get this Albariño going. The mouthfeel is full and lemony. Flavors of pickled, briny citrus and nectarine carry onto the finish. This is at its best now; in 2014 it will not be so good.
White-fruit flavors are minerally and crisp, leading to a bone-dry palate that is lean and zesty. Flavors of lime-infused seltzer and green apple finish tangy and direct, with an echo of green herbs.
White-peach aromas meet with vanilla butter and honeysuckle on the nose, yet there is a tension apparent amid the ripeness. The sip starts with an edgy texture and crisp acidity that cut across flavors of nectarine and apple.
White almond, pressed rose, natural rubber, exotic fruit and tangy spice characterize this Grüner Veltliner. It's thickly textured, with tangy freshness on the close.
White and black pepper jump out of the glass, calling to the senses in this wine from the Wallace Creek Vineyard. A complex tangle of body and texture interweaves between an underlying elegance that belies the considerable ripeness behind this wine.
White and pink floral tones of clover and sweet pea waft from the glass on first nosing, with supporting tones of white pear, melon rind and green apple. Gooseberry and pineapple flavors unfold on the palate, framed by ample acidity that results in a short yet clean finish.
White apricot, spice and lemon flavors give character. Vibrant acidity lends the plump palate satisfying energy.
White balsamic and beeswax notes pop against the backdrop of white fruit and bitter papaya seed. Medium to full in body, the palate starts out a bit flat, but the acids become more prominent as the wine progresses to the finish, ultimately ending with a tangy, minerally kick.
White blends like this are increasingly popular in America for versatility and sheer likeability. Made from Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Muscat Blanc, it's a dry wine with crisp acidity alongside lemon and lime flavors. The finish is pleasantly honeyed.
White blossom and apple aromas open on this vibrant white while the racy palate shows Kaiser pear, tangerine and a hint of mineral. Zesty acidity gives it a clean, crisp finish.
White blossom perfume accents notes of fresh lemon, lime and green melon in this aromatic Silvaner. While dry in style, it's refreshingly juicy on the palate, bursting with pristine citrus flavor tinged by edges of lime and lemon pith. Mouth filling and rich in texture, it clings lusciously through a long finish.
White blossom, stone fruit and tangerine aromas lead the nose on this crisp, savory white. The vibrant palate displays creamy white peach and notes of Mediterranean herb brightened by zesty acidity.
White blossoms and fresh green herbs perfume this full-bodied wine. Dry in style and refreshingly tart, it finishes briskly with a bit of floral flair.
White blossoms and grapefruit zest perfume this crystalline late harvest Riesling. Veiled by a gossamer spray of sugary lace rather than streaks of honey, it showcases peach and apricot flavors in their most pristine and primary state. It's dancingly delicate on the palate yet endures dramatically on the finish.
White blossoms and peaches perfume this unusually zesty Viognier. Dry and delicately framed, it's balances crisp, cutting acidity against sunny citrus flavors. It's an easy, refreshing wine with a moderately long finish.
White blossoms and summer peaches persist from nose to finish here. The palate is lusciously sweet, dripping with ripe, rich apricot and tangerine flavors, but a backdrop of lime acidity makes it refreshing too. Drink now through 2021.
White blossoms and wet stone softly caress on the nose. The flavors are layered and compelling, starting on crisp green apple, honeydew melon and peach, folding into complexities of crushed stone, fennel and pollen. Well-balanced, fresh acidity and ample body lend to a long, evolving finish.
White cherry, raspberry, almond skin and cola describe the simple bouquet of this easy-going red. On the palate, it's crisp and lean.
White currant and orchard fruit tones lead onto the silky, open-textured palate. It finishes with a welcome minerally tang.
White currant aromas give an exotic character that is confirmed by the spice and ripe apricot flavors. Acidity is bright and fresh while the aftertaste moves the wine more to a warmer character.
White currant, green pear and peppery arugula rule this crisp white. It bursts with very ripe sweet, juicy pears on the palate, making for  savory sipping with lots of resonance, with or without food. Drink now.
White currants and fresh apricots dominate this fruity, fragrant wine. Bright acidity is enveloped by the generous texture and touch of toast. This rich wine is ready to drink.
White currants and grapefruit dominate this wine. It could be drunk now but will certainly improve for the next two years when the fruit will be more in balance and the acidity better integrated.
White floral and lemon zest scents perfume this zippy, light-footed Pinot Blanc. It's not a deeply concentrated wine but offers sunny yellow apple and citrus flavors, warmed by a touch of caramelized sugar. The finish is crisp and slightly mineral.
White floral and peach notes bound from the glass of this gorgeously feminine Riesling. It's intensely ripe, with peach and melon flavors, but dry and mineral laden on the palate. Finishes long, with a kiss of spring blossoms and a shock of lemon-lime acidity.
White florals and clover add an interesting edge to this brisk Sauv Blanc, otherwise loaded with flavors of grapefruit pith and pineapple core acidity. Drink now.
White flower and bubble gum notes show little depth on the nose. A briny, sharp palate overpowers generic fruit-cocktail tones.
White flower and freshly cut pear aromas are followed by just off-dry peach and pear flavors balanced by juicy acidity. It shows a lovely sense of balance.
White flower and Granny Smith apple aromas come together on this refreshing sparkler. The racy palate offers crisp Bartlett pear and green apple alongside small, persistent bubbles.
White flower and orchard fruit aromas come together in this bright, easy-drinking wine. The simple palate offers golden apple and tangerine notes, alongside zesty acidity and a hint of bitter almond.
White flower and pink bubblegum notes lend a slightly confected tone to this semisweet Hungarian sparkling wine, but it's an undeniably drinkable, peach-flavored sip, with sharp effervescence and a tasty sugar-cookie finish.
White flower and ripe pear aromas segue over to the racy palate along with tart apple and a hint of medicinal herb. It's crisp, with brisk acidity, while a note of bitter almond marks the close.
White flower and yellow stone fruit aromas lead the way in this straightforward white while the bright palate offers yellow apple, apricot and bitter almond flavors. Zesty acidity gives it a refreshing finish.
White flower perfume and rain-soaked concrete scents make an interesting and appealing nose on this wine from the summits of the Santa Cruz Mountains. There is tight, barely ripe nectarine on the palate and a bright freshness, making it a perfect partner for shellfish or counterpoint to aged cheese.
White flower, citrus and beeswax aromas open. The enjoyable, easy drinking palate offers Anjou pear, lime and a hint of bitter almond alongside zesty acidity. It's simple but well made.
White flower, citrus and exotic fruit aromas follow through to the juicy palate along with notes of toasted almond and mineral. It's vibrant and balanced, with brisk acidity.
White flower, honeydew melon and lemon aromas meld together on this lively white. The savory, juicy palate doles out green apple, white peach and a white almond note alongside flinty mineral and bright acidity.
White flower, lychee and apple aromas carry the mellow bouquet. The chunky-feeling palate bears powdery, sweet flavors of peach and melon, mixed with greener notes of grass and lime. The 80% Viognier component is typical of the warm climate: plump and oily, with a short finish. Chardonnay fills out the blend.
White flower, orchard fruit and banana aromas lead the nose while the vibrant palate doles out white peach, Bartlett pear, citrus and saline flavors. Tangy acidity provides loads of freshness.
White flower, orchard fruit and citrus aromas emerge on this lively white. The bright, crisp palate delivers crunchy rennet apple and lime zest alongside racy acidity that leaves a clean finish.
White flower, orchard fruit and crushed stone aromas delicately guide the nose. The easygoing palate offers Bartlett pear, apple skin and a hint of mineral alongside bright acidity.
White flower, Spanish Broom, chamomile, exotic fruit and a hint of hazelnut unfold in the glass. The linear, razor-sharp palate delivers Kaiser pear, citrus, sage and white almond while a salty mineral note closes the finish.
White flower, stone fruit, apple and bread crust aromas lead the nose. The fresh palate offers up yellow peach, candied lemon and hints of clove and white pepper alongside a vivacious perlage and brisk acidity.
White flower, toasted nut, citrus and white stone fruit aromas set the tone on this crisp sparkler. The elegant palate offers creamy pear, yellow apple, nectarine zest and bread crust alongside fresh acidity that brightens the rich flavors. An elegant perlage conveys finesse.
White flowers and a red apple candy reveal themselves on the nose, but the strongest aromas convey a concentrated pear-peach perfume. The palate is dominated by apple at first, but grapefruit carries the midpalate and finish, which shows good acidity and a bit of grip as well.
White flowers and almonds give fragrance to this Chardonnay-dominant Champagne. It is a concentrated wine, full of ripe white fruits, with a tight core of acidity. Named after the producer's owner, it is a flagship wine, intense and just ready to drink.
White flowers and lime skins juxtapose smoke and slate on the nose of this ethereal kabinett. Delicately sweet, as if gilded by hibiscus nectar, it fills the palate with waves of sunny yellow-stone fruit and tart lemons. A lovely wine that should show its youthful effervescence through 2020.
White flowers and peach start this slightly simple but good white from Greece. On the palate, lemon and orange flavors join with a honeyed spice. The overall character is balanced and friendly.
White flowers and pine fronds perfume crisp yellow peach and apricots in this delicate, yet intensely concentrated Riesling. Zesty, cutting and spry, it's a bright star for Riesling in a region traditionally not known for the variety. Made from “virgin” seedless berries known for their intense aroma and flavor concentration.
White flowers and wild anise give this a crisp, tangy quality, the fruit balanced and refined, showing up as Asian pear and Meyer lemon. The voluptuous finish adds depth without overbearing power.
White flowers meld with saffron and fennel notes on this complex medium-dry Riesling. It's delicately lacy on the palate, yet sweet-tart peach and lime flavors penetrate deeply. Racy acidity drives a high-toned, focused finish.
White flowers, dried lavender and vanilla bean scent this wine. Pleasantly acidic on entry, it tastes of lemon curd, pineapple juice and white peaches. The finish is zesty and long lasting.
White flowers, eucalyptus and a slight whiff of petrol greet the nose. In the mouth, it is all about green olive, white peach and green apple. The finish is soft and elegant.
White flowers, green apple, pear, lime and mineral notes come together on this linear, lightly sparkling wine. Refermenting in the bottle on its yeasts gives it a slightly cloudy appearance and a fine sediment at the bottom. It has a dry, almost austere finish.
White flowers, honey and toasted spice lead on this Riesling from New York, and on the palate, a backbone of elegant fruit prevails. Paired with the wine's sweet touch, the flavors offer a simple, appealing quaff that will pair well with spicy cuisine.
White flowers, honey, melon and ham aromas are true to the variety and welcoming. This feels round and generous, with a lot of ripeness to the body and flavor profile, which includes papaya, melon and spice elements. A melony, honeyed finish is bold and ready.
White flowers, lemon peel and vanilla lead this elegant white. Though the wine's tropical fruit flavors are forward, its minerality and spice give it grounding. This is a very good everyday white perfect for grilled chicken and heartier vegetable dishes.
White flowers, nectarine, red apple and a steely minerality greet the nose on this entry-level wine from Rajat Parr. A bright and racy acidity frames the energetic palate that shows delicate flavors of yellow apples, lemon juice and honeysuckle.
White flowers, spun honey and graham cracker aromas introduce this wine that will be a hit with those who prefer a sweet touch to their bottles. The palate is very sweet, even treacly, with honeysuckle nectar, sugared apples and candied orange flavors. There's just enough acidity to somewhat balance the sugars.
White fruit and almonds dominate the flavor of this perfumed wine. It has a young, fruity structure that hints at minerality while letting acidity and freshness show strongly. The end is bright and crisp, ready to drink.
White fruit and flower aromas are friendly and simple. The palate feels soft and syrupy, and thus it's not surprising that the wine's flavors of sweet apple and pear taste honeyed and candied. Creamy on the finish, lacking the zest and cut that Verdejo should have.
White fruit aromas are as expected and clean, with no faux oak, weight or interference. The palate is round but nicely acidic, with cutting texture and sweet, lightly creamy flavors of sweet peach, apple and butter. Turns slightly oaky late, with butterscotch and spice.
White fruits and candied apple aromas turn a little dusty with airing. The palate is crisp and standard, with no issues and juicy flavors of lightly sweetened apple, nectarine and citrus. Clean on the finish.
White fruits and delicious soft acidity make this wine immediately attractive. It is rich and fresh at the same time, with just a touch of apple skin structure. The name of the wine refers to the Solutré rock which towers over the vineyards.
White fruits, fennel and Serrano ham aromas create a sophisticated bouquet. This jabs away on the palate courtesy of citric acidity, while flavors of nectarine and citrus are good. It finishes dry and foamy.
White fruits, flower blossom and a touch of brine work the nose, which is followed by flush, semisweet apple, gooseberry and lime flavors. More sweet than outright tangy, but still citrusy and zesty. Holds form on the crisp finish. 60% Verdejo and 40% Viura.
White grapefruit, peach and blossom notes are perfumed and pretty on this dry, full-bodied Riesling. The palate feels weighty and ripe, but bright, with flavors of quince jelly and yellow plum, along with a zesty, focused minerality that carries from start to finish.
White lily, popcorn kernel, citrus spray and underripe peach lead the well-integrated and restrained nose. The palate follows suit, remaining quiet and delicate in flavor concentration, yet loud in weight and texture. Salty citrus lingers on the finish.
White melon rind and key lime citrus abound in the bouquet of this intricate white blend made from 40% Rhine Riesling, 33% Viognier, 13% Sauvignon Blanc, 11% Chenin Blanc and 3% Chardonnay. The mouth is ripe and full of tropical fruit flavors, with sweet but zippy pineapple acidity lingering after swallow.
White Merlot? Why not? It's actually a deep rose color, with fresh, exuberant aromas of raspberries and wildflowers. Drinks fruity and clean, with nice strawberry and raspberry flavors and just a tad of sugar. The finish is pretty.
White orchard-fruit aromas, like slow-cooked green apples and Barlett pears, are offset by flower and light spice accents. The palate is a little broad, but the wine finishes with a lemony, minerally tang.
White peach and a bit of sweat accent the expiring bouquet, while the flavors are of dull, heavy apples dotted with sauerkraut and pickle accents. Imported by Kysela Pere et Fils, Ltd.
White peach and flower petal notes on the nose gain rich honeydew and fresh herb flavors on the palate of this refreshing, concentrated Malvasia. Bright acidity and a lovely saline touch keep the finish brisk and balanced.
White peach and honey-butter aromas show on the nose of this richly styled bottling from one of the region's bigger producers. Salt and nectarine appear strongly on the palate, which is bound together by a very grippy texture. Waves of caramel pop toward the finish.
White peach and papaya aromas are sweet and tropical, while saline notes play second fiddle. Feels tangy, juicy and lean, with dilute lemon and green banana flavors. Wet and watery on the finish.
White peach and spice notes billow aromatically in this soft, creamy textured wine. There is attractive acidity along with a touch of honey that softens and rounds out the acidity. It's ready to drink, although it will age well in the bottle.
White peach and toasted grain aromas ease gently into a plump, custardy mouthful of melon and stone fruit. Balanced nuttiness frames the wine, giving it just enough structure on the elegant, plush finish. Drink now–2020.
White peach aromas and powerful fruitiness give this wine great intensity. It is bone dry while rich, full of quince, pear and peach fruits. There is an extra richness from the edge of wood aging. The wine is still young and should not be drunk before 2020.
White peach aromas give a warm feeling. It has fine acidity as well, bursting with fruit and with just a touch of toast. It's ready to drink but will benefit by holding until 2015 in bottle.
White peach cooked in browned butter, sea salt and apple slice aromas make for a delicious entry into this bottling from one of the few estate wineries in the appellation. Spiced apple and lemon salt flavors combine for a solid and ever-reliable palate, while a fresh-rain-on-cement accent adds interest and depth.
White peach, cherry and cranberry fruits are coupled with attractive scents of white tea, talc and peony on the nose of this wine. There's a subtle texture to the lightweight palate, thanks to notes of lime pith and bitter melon rind. It's well balanced and easy to like.
White peach, hints of smoke, yellow pear and squeezed lemon show on the rounded nose of this wine. It's softer in style on the palate, with kumquat cream, poached apple and pear, white flowers but also a sharper herbal backbone of dill and fennel.
White peach, melon and lime flavors are pure and pristine. A kiss of honey sweetens the palate, lingering softly alongside a spritz of lemony acidity. Enjoy now through 2016 for its crystalline character.
White peach, sea salt, pecan, guava and the slightest hint of sour cream show on the nose of this bottling from the family that owns Bien Nacido Vineyard. It's light and delicate on the sip, with stone-fruit and tangerine-laced citrus flavors held up by a pithy structure and acid that rises toward the finish.
White peach, tropical fruit and citrus typify this curvy white punctuated by fragrant Viognier. The rounded fruit is buoyed by Assyrtiko's brisk acidity.
White peaches and pink grapefruits lend perfume and brightness to this racy, lean-bodied Riesling. Dry in style with a zesty mineral-focused palate, it's endlessly refreshing and invigorating.
White pepper and a floral nose pique interest right away in this wine. A relatively light-bodied expression of the grape, it's soft in body and texture that persists in flavors of cinnamon stick.
White pepper and celery aromas, along with distinctly herbaceous and tart flavors give a tight aspect. It is definitely light, crisp and mouth-cleansing; would be great with raw oysters or goat cheese on toasts.
White pepper and dill scents make up a promising beginning and lead to a velvety palate with plenty of roasted meat and black cherry fruit. A fine choice with barbecue. Drink now to 2010.
White pepper and matchstick come to the fore aromatically in this crisp white that's fuller bodied on the palate than one would expect given the aromatics. Apple and pear give a complex, autumnal fruit presence that leads up to a ripe, creamy finish.
White pepper and smoke notes highlight the intense minerality in this steely Riesling. Lemony on the palate, this is crisp and brisk, and it comes with notes of wet slate and steel on the finish.
White pepper and thyme stand alongside ripe flavors of blackberries and toasty oak in this Cabernet. Brisk acidity testifies to its cool-climate origins. Will drink well over the next five years or so.
White pepper and vanilla bean aromas give this richly textured, concentrated and subtly fruity wine a spicy start. It has a bright yellow-gold color and has gained complexity through extended aging before release. Savory consomée and dried herb characteristics accent its substantial core of apple butter flavor.
White pepper aroma. Subtle blackberry fruit reveals itself on the palate, as do some tough tannins. Very dry, with an earthy, tannic finish. Needs a few years to soften up.
White pepper dominates the smell, and the flavor is primarily of candied lemons.
White pepper in a fortuitous blend of blueberry and blackberry creates an inviting nose. The palate continues this spice-driven berry theme, with a wonderfully subtle but palpable structure of fine tannin and a welcome backbone of acidity. All this together makes this wine incredibly moreish, elegant and appetizing.
White pepper is already signalled on the nose, on the palate it keeps fizzing amid crushed herbs and yeasty, salty tanginess. The fruit for now remains in the background, but ripe pear is ready to burst forth. This is a quintessential Grüner, full of focus and direction without forgetting the all-important charm. Lovely now but will be even better after 2018.
White pepper mixed with clove and cinnamon frames the cherry fruit on this elegant, almost understated red. That delicious white pepper edge highlights and spices every impression of this nuanced, moreish red.
White pepper spice and crunchy cherry are the aromatic markers on this light-bodied but vibrant Zweigelt. Its structure is soft and pliable but inherently fresh. The lightness makes it ideal for lunchtime or summer drinking. While this may be simple, it is incredibly vibrant and full-fruited.
White pepper, tart pomegranate and herbal touches show on the nose of this bottling from winemaker Mike Sinor. There's a strong spice-and-herb quality to the palate, evoking thyme, oregano and black pepper, which gives depth to the black plum skin flavors. It's racy with acidity and vibrant as can be.
White pepper, toffee and vanilla aromas are followed by full-bodied flavors backed by rustic tannins. It needs some hearty food alongside it to be properly enjoyed.
White raisin and touches of lettuce and celery give this multigrape blend some richness but also a bit of green character. The palate shows lemon, green apple and pineapple, and this lean quality is confirmed by the wine's modest 11% alcohol level. Drink now to catch it at its scouring, sorbet-like best.
White rose, tangerine skin and honey open the bouquet of this beautiful cool-climate Pinot Bianco. Its structure is firm and creamy enough to pair with Pacific seafood or grilled shrimp.
White Rully is one of the unsung values of Burgundy. This soft, attractive ripe wine is a pleasure to drink. It has a buttery, toast character along with crisp acidity, delicious apricot fruit and a mouthwatering aftertaste.
White seems to be the new black when it comes to Oregon Pinot Noir, as more and more winemakers give it a spin. This is one of the better ones, at a very modest price, mixing sweet grass and fresh pear and stone fruits. It would be difficult to identify it as Pinot Noir in a blind tasting of mixed whites, but that's not the point, is it?
White spring-flower and ripe orchard-fruit aromas lead the way in this lovely white. Its creamy palate doles out juicy pear, ripe apple and honeydew melon flavors, while a blast of tangerine and bright acidity lift the finish.
White spring blossom and citrus aromas waft out of the glass. On the palate, crisp acidity brightens creamy apple, pear and tangerine zest. It's quite simply crisp and delicious.
White spring blossom, orchard fruit and a whiff of Alpine herb come together on this delicious, structured white. The juicy, full-bodied palate offers white peach, mature pear and tangerine alongside bright acidity that lifts the creamy flavors. A precise mineral note closes the lingering finish and lends finesse.
White spring flower and apple aromas lead the way on this enjoyable white. The soft fresh palate doles out ripe Bartlett pear, citrus and a hint of mineral that lifts the finish.
White spring flower and apple aromas lift out of the glass. On the palate, bracing acidity and brisk bubbles offset ripe pear and a hint of thyme.
White spring flower and citrus aromas lead the nose on this easygoing, savory white. The juicy palate offers juicy tangerine and a note of sea salt alongside fresh acidity. It's simple but well made.
White spring flower and citrus aromas lead the way on this juicy, savory wine. On the bright palate, a touch of cake spice accents succulent grapefruit, lemon drop and green apple alongside fresh acidity. A white almond note fills in the finish.
White spring flower and citrus fruit aromas lead the way while the bright palate offers juicy nectarine and a hint of papaya. Zesty acidity gives it a tangy finish.
White spring flower and mature orchard fruit aromas lead the nose on this appealing sparkler. On the palate, notes of candied nectarine zest and lemon drop accent ripe green apple and pear.
White spring flower and orchard fruit aromas float out of the glass. The bright breezy palate shows crisp green apple, peach and a hint of tangerine zest alongside a soft mousse and vibrant acidity.
White spring flower and orchard fruit aromas lead the nose. The lean, rather evolved palate still retains fresh acidity, but drink soon to capture the remaining yellow apple and lemon peel flavors.
White spring flower and white peach aromas jump out of the glass and follow through to the vibrant palate along with crisp green apple. A soft mousse lends finesse.
White spring flower and yellow stone fruit aromas lead the nose. The lively, straightforward palate shows peach and a hint of bitter almond accompanied by brisk acidity.
White spring flower, beeswax and orchard fruit aromas take center stage while the round, ripe palate evokes yellow apple, candied lemon drop and a hint of fennel seed. A saline-like mineral note energizes the finish.
White spring flower, Bosc pear and wet stone aromas lift out of the glass. The bright, straightforward palate offers apple, tangerine and a hint of almond alongside bright acidity.
White spring flower, citrus and a whiff of tomato leaf lead the nose. Bright and linear, the palate offers juicy white grapefruit, pineapple and a hint of mineral alongside tangy acidity.
White spring flower, citrus and apple aromas set the tone while the bright palate offers pear, nectarine zest and a hint of bitter almond. Fresh acidity gives it a crisp finish.
White spring flower, mature pear and yellow peach aromas lead the nose on this enjoyable white. The ripe round palate offers exotic fruit and a hint of white almond.
White spring flower, ripe pear and grilled herb aromas take center stage in this medium-bodied white. The bright, linear palate offers green apple and citrus flavors, with a hint of clove.
White spring flower, yellow stone fruit and a whiff of Mediterranean herb come together on this savory wine. The bright juicy palate offers creamy peach, Bartlett pear and a hint of nectarine while an almond note gives it a pleasantly bitter finish.
White stone fruits, some smoke and toast, and ample spice makes the entrance to this wine really inviting. There's plenty of richness to the mouth, which is jammed with lemon, lime and a balancing dryness not unlike chalk. The fade is pure and dry, offering long nuances of spicy oak and white pepper. It's a wine that's integrated and satisfying.
White summer blossom and fresh green pear create a superlight, superfresh opening. The palate continues in the same vein: ultralight as befits the 2014 vintage, but with an aromatic, spicy, peppery edge. It makes for a perfect, light summer apéritif.
White summer blossoms and ripe green pears make for a fresh scent. The palate lifts these notions with bright lemon acidity. All is buoyed by some residual carbon dioxide. Drink soon while this is at its aromatic height.
White talc and pressed flowers come to mind and color a pristine sparkler with pretty luminosity and a generous disposition. The wine has a soft, yielding texture and offers peachy fruit flavors on the close.
White truffle, dark chocolate, ripe plum and blue flowers are some of the aromas you'll find in this impressive Merlot. The powerful, extracted palate doles out fleshy blackberry, black cherry, clove, tobacco, licorice and cured meat. Velvety tannins wrap around the bold flavors, providing support and a smooth texture. You'll also detect the warmth of evident alcohol, which gives it a one-dimensional finish.
White wildflower and Bosc pear aromas lead the nose. The bright, linear palate offers nectarine zest and crisp Granny Smith alongside zesty acidity. A mineral note closes the tangy finish.
White wine is rare among producers in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil who normally concentrate on red wines. However, this wood-aged wine from a parcel that is better suited to Chenin Blanc, has a fine texture, crisp apples even a touch of honey. It should age a little longer, so drink from 2018.
White wines are extremely rare in this blazing-hot appellation. This off-dry example brings aromas and flavors of dried pears and apples, with the sugar writing much of the story.
White wines are rare in the Côte de Nuits and this wine is as structured as many reds. It does have strong toast flavors, a juicy citrus character and pear flavors. They go with an apple skin and spice aftertaste, laced with acidity. Drink until 2022.
Who can resist a wine called the Lovers' Vineyard? Finely aged in wood, it comes from the highest point of the Santar estate and is rich in yellow fruit and toasty spice. Creamy, smooth and lightly tangy, it needs another few months to mature. Drink from 2018.
Who knew Ohio made such tasty Chardonnay? Bright and fresh, with scents of green apple, pear, fresh herbs and just a hint of nut oil. This dry, medium-bodied wine offsets juicy flavors of nectarines and apples against a backdrop of sweet cream and white flowers that lingers on the finish. Drink now.
Who puts their lowest-priced Pinot Noir in 20% new French oak, and includes fruit from their best vineyards in the blend? Ponzi does, and the result is a terrific vintage for Tavola. Bright, compact, aromatic and lushly fruited with plum and black cherry, this is a stunning value. Cola, caramel and cinnamon spice add further details and highlights.
Who would have believed that one day we'd have Sauvignon Blancs paying tribute to 1980s pop groups? At least both share a New Zealand connection. The wine is a bit on the fuller side of things, but nicely balanced by mineral and grapefruit aromas and flavors, ending on notes of lime and cut grass. Drink up.
Who wouldn't love this Cabernet? It defines the famous description of wines from this district as an iron fist in a velvet glove. Shows a firmly tannic structure, with good acidity and a firm minerality. That's the iron. The velvet is the ripe, rich black currant and cherry fruit. Glamorous and delicious, it gives its best over the next six years.
Who wouldn't love this Pinot Noir? It's zippy in acidity and ripe in briary raspberry and cherry fruit, with spicy, smoky oak complexity. Really defines the luxurious silkiness of the appellation. The grapes are mostly from the Fiddlestix Vineyard, with the balance hailing from Rio Vista Vineyard. Drink now-2015.
Whoa... need... water. Michael David's Earthquake is all about impact, no bones about it. And this one won't disappoint people who like their wine like finely aged Scotch, high in alcohol. For them, its bold smoky chocolate, savory bacon on toast notes will be delightful.
Whole-cluster fermented, this wine offers complexities of baked plum, raspberry and truffled earth. Generous in oak and structure, it also flashes lavender, rose and black licorice around a core of meaty game. Smooth on the palate, enjoy this wine through 2027.
Whole-cluster pressed and aged in barrel and stainless steel, this is fruity in ripe apricot and pear. It's medium-bodied, meaty but not overdone, with zingy acidity. More creamy than crisp, it lingers on the tongue and makes for a good food wine.
Whole-cluster pressed and barrel fermented, this is a deep gold, and opens powerfully with scents of buttered fruit and nuts. It's rich and creamy, showing toast and other barrel tones ahead of any specific fruit. Drink now through 2018.
Whole-cluster pressed and fermented in French oak barrels, about one third new, this pure Marsanne is a deep gold, and scented with buttery, oily oak and vanilla. It's full in the mouth, bright and high-toned, with a mix of stone fruits.
Whole-cluster pressed, with 20% Marsanne in the blend, this displays fresh fruit flavors of apple and pear, with a bit of somewhat dilute green banana. There's a slightly waxy aspect to the mouthfeel; overall this is a simple, pleasant, clean but generic white wine.
Whole-clustered pressed grapes, all from this one clone, provide an aromatic entry of golden honey and caramel, which is also how the color can be described. Decadent in a bite of yellow apple that could almost be baked, it remains buoyant on the palate, textured and floral in gardenia.
Whole berry fermented and aged seven months in neutral oak, it shows appealing notes of dried herbs, raspberry and cherry. The palate is fruit focused with a abundant sweet raspberry flavors that linger on the finish.
Whole berry pressed with 11% saignee from Syrah and Primitivo rounding out the blend, it's a very pretty, pale salmon color with notes of strawberry, watermelon and mineral. It drinks medium sweet with abundant cherry flavors.
Whole cluster fermented in stainless steel, this is big and spicy, with a lovely textural impact. The aromas and flavors run to honeyed pears and very ripe apples; the finish is resonant and surprisingly mature for a 2009. Drink up.
Whole clusters of Syrah are co-fermented with Viognier to create this tight, concisely crafted wine. This is a firm expression of field and grape, with bright berry fruit and chocolaty tannins. The slightly chalky finish may smooth out with a bit more bottle age.
Why not try this with fried porcini or mushrooms au gratin? This bold wine delivers playful notes of wet earth and cured meat that would match nicely with those foods. It also has has dried fruit flavors of cassis and raspberry that keep the palate refreshed and ready for the next course.
Why reach for a lean, tart Chianti when you could have this varietally correct but friendlier Sangiovese? Aged half in stainless steel and half in large Slavonian oak casks, this wine's black cherry and plum fruit flavors are carried by soft tannins, but still show hints of tobacco leaf on the finish.
Why shouldn't Pfalz producers cash in on the Pinot Noir craze? This is a commendable version, offering earthy, herbal aromas and a base of black cherry fruit. It's plump and nicely rounded, with a soft, mushroomy finish.
Why this basic Garnacha is so oaky is a question that deserves to be asked. That said, it's still a healthy, balanced wine with grabby tannins and good energy. Dry, woody notes of spice and clove accent sappy plum flavors.
Why yes this is mountain Zin with a lot of Dr. Pepper, sarsaparilla happening aromatically and then a mouthful of thick, savory, herbal, raspberry jam with soft tannins and a just-right note of earthiness too.
Why, at the northern limits of Burgundy, there should be a small village producing Sauvignon Blanc is a curiosity, as the name of the wine suggests. This ripe, tropical fruit and crisp green plum-flavored wine is tightly textured and ready to drink.
Wichmann is the smallest of the estate vineyards and holds the oldest vines. That old-vine intensity rings true here, in a low-alcohol wine with splendid aromatics. Musk, chocolate, almond candy and caramel swirls around black raspberry and black cherry fruit. The depth of flavor is striking.
Wichmann is the smallest of the estate vineyards, with Trisaetum's oldest vines. The signature Dundee Hills flavors of big bold black-cherry fruit come through, full and round, with a light frame of bitter herb. Let it breathe and highlights of orange peel, clove and dark chocolate emerge. This wine should drink especially well from 2020 onward.
Wickedly, sinfully good. This is fruit detonation in the mouth, a blast of pure, sweet cassis, currant, plum and chocolate. The tannins are a velvety wonder, the oak lavish and thick, but perfectly in balance to the size. Opulent and hedonistic, it's best in its sensual, seductive youth.
Wide aromas suggest earth and compost, rubber, strawberry and green. It's got the size and hits hard, but the flavors are a bit too leafy and green. Toasty and oaky on the finish.
Wide open and seductive, this brings together grapes from both Conner Lee (northern Columbia Basin) and Champoux (Horse Heaven Hills). Muscular, ripe and round, the sweet blackberry and cassis fruit is limned with a granite-like minerality. Great concentration and layering—a berry/rock/tannin layer cake.
Wide streaks of saffron, caramel and honey along with a deep mineral core hint to the maturity of this complex sparkling Riesling. Rich yellow cherry and peach flavors persist on the palate, buoyed by soft, delicate mousse and striking lemonade acidity.
Widely accessible and hedonistic aromas of cherry pie with a tinge of wild mint lead the nose on this young but ready county blend. The palate is framed with oak influence and the associated tannins, as well as plum and ripe cherry fruit. It's unusual that this 2013 is on the market after 10 months in barrel.
Widely available Rioja Crianzas don't come much better than this. An opening of raspberry and strawberry aromas backed by direct cherry, raspberry and red-plum flavors render this all about fruit and freshness.
Widely available, Kings Ridge delivers strong flavors for the price. Cherry candy fruit with an earthy edge is set within sharp, potent tannins. This is a steak-worthy Pinot Noir.
Widely available, this easy Prosecco offers fresh aromas of citrus, stone fruit and honey. It's elegantly packaged with a light blue label that would look gorgeous at a lunchtime table set by the pool.
Widely distributed and often praised, this seems a bit off-kilter this vintage. It delivers light berry and rhubarb fruit but also a hint of plastic and little sense of depth or flavor that go beyond basic red wine.
Widely regarded as the most majestic of the Chablis Grand Crus, Les Clos has produced a properly impressive and richly dense wine. It has the crispness of the vintage, tight minerality and ripe fruit flavors that contrast apricot and citrus. This is a serious, structured wine ready for aging. Drink from 2022.
Wiemer's Cuvée Brut is fresher and more forward than the producer's longer-aged blanc de blanc. Yet amidst the cutting green apple and lemon, there's plenty of autolytic character, expressed as whispers of toast, rising dough and burnt sugar. It's vibrantly balanced by tiny, penetrating bubbles and a lingering, fresh finish.
Wiemer's standard dry Riesling is an impeccable value for a wine that offers such density of fruit and minerality. While dry in style, it's a luscious, deeply fruity wine studded with tangerine and stone-fruit flavors glazed in honey and nectar. It's unctuous and ripe, but finishes with a cool, steel-edged persistence.
Wieninger's blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is a finely structured wine. It has black currant flavor, firm tannins, and a dark core of dryness. Wood aging has lifted the fruits and acidity and added a sense of elegance. It's for aging over 4–6 years. Screwcap.
Wiese & Krohn have made a specialty of Colheitas, vintage-dated wood-aged Ports. This 1983, aged in wood for 28 years, is an opulent, ripe example of the style. It is sweet and very concentrated, with burnt old wood flavors to go with raisins and prunes. The acidity is intense, a fine counterpoint to the rich fruit.
Wild-berry, truffle, leather, menthol and sunbaked soil aromas lead the way. Tightly wound but ripe tannins wrap around the firmly structured palate, underscoring mature Morello cherry, black raspberry, white pepper, licorice and chopped Mediterranean herb. A subtle hint of game closes the finish. Drink 2019–2026.
Wild aromas abound on the nose of this wine, but are balanced with expressive garrigue (primarily rosemary and thyme) and ripe red cherry, bramble and blueberry notes. The medium-weight mouth shows great richness and concentration of flavors, all framed by silky tannins and moderate acidity.
Wild aromas of sage, thyme and cedar play out on the aromatic entry of this softly layered wine. Integrated oak wraps around a density of chocolate and herb, before the full-bodied finish mellows out.
Wild barnyard notes dance among the rich dark fruit and berry core. Garrigue and bramble accents add more character to the smooth and silky mouth, while the medium finish lands on a softly oak-kissed flavor. Drink now.
Wild berries, blueberries and some natural rubber come to the forefront of this bright, young Dolcetto. In the mouth, it offers cooling fruit flavors with a hint of firmness in the form of polished tannins.
Wild berries, cranberries and pungent herbaceousness characterize this Barrel Select Pinot Noir. It seems a little light at first, then gathers itself in a focused, spicy midpalate that nicely integrates the fruit and herbs.
Wild berries, from elderberry to salmonberry to mountain strawberries, are in play in this wine. The underpinning scents suggest earth and wet cement, while in the finish a strong flavor of breakfast tea lingers. This is an interesting addition to the Sineann lineup.
Wild berries, white cherry and even a touch of green olive or caper come to the forefront of this delicately colored rosé from Sicily. The wine loses momentum in the mouth, however, because of its bitter, slightly astringent feel.
Wild berry and cherry aromas and flavors are at the center of this jammy, fruit-forward wine. It's balanced and accessible, with soft tannins and medium acidity that lend a freshness to the finish. Drink now.
Wild berry and meaty sausage aromas introduce a creamy, concentrated palate. Jammy cassis flavors have a peppery edge, while the finish is toasty at first, transitioning to bitter.
Wild berry and spice aromas are herbal. This is not that lively in feel, with herbal blue-fruit flavors of blackberry and juniper. This is more green on the finish, which is modestly structured.
Wild berry and vanilla rise to the fore on this rose-petal-piqued vineyard-designate, the site planted by this producer. There's some girth on the midpalate, and depth of flavor, along with a supportive structure of oak and tannin, the entirety teased in complexity. It finishes juicy and refreshing in pomegranate, wild mushroom and spice.
Wild berry aromas are foxy and smell a bit like vinegar. This dark young Tempranillo is severely tannic and hard as rocks. Blackberry and boysenberry flavors finish salty and with rugged leftover tannins.
Wild berry aromas come with a cool hint of herbal mint. This is full, grabby and solid in the mouth. Flavors of dark fruits come across lightly stewed and pruny, while the finish dishes up a final taste of prune and foresty notes.
Wild berry aromas come with notes of Band-Aid and latex. This feels tight and pinched, with hard tannins. A flavor profile built on limited berry and peppery bitterness ends with some clipped tannins.
Wild berry, black cooking spice and a whiff of Mediterranean brush come together on this soft, straightforward red. The medium-bodied, concentrated palate offers ripe blackberry, raspberry jam and a note of anise alongside round, compacted tannins.
Wild berry, cherry and mint notes are what you'll find on this wine's open, likable bouquet. The feel is clean and crisp, with snappy wild-berry and plum flavors that crackle with finishing acidity and controlled tannins.
Wild berry, chopped mint, sun baked soil and violet aromas meld together on this solid savory red. The juicy straightforward palate doles out ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, anise and cinnamon alongside chewy tannins. Enjoy through 2018.
Wild berry, crushed herb, violet and baking spice scents lift out of the glass along with a whiff of menthol. Focused and elegantly structured, the delicious palate doles out ripe Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, cinnamon, sage and white pepper, while refined tannins and bright acidity provide supple support and impeccable balance. Drink 2023–2033.
Wild berry, dark baking spice, aromatic herb and espresso aromas are present along with a floral note. The linear palate offers raw red cherry, dried sage and a white pepper note framed in vibrant acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins.
Wild berry, dark brown spice, French oak and underbrush aromas lead the way. The medium-bodied palate displays ripe black cherry, cranberry, vanilla and dried aromatic herb alongside taut, tightly wound tannins.
Wild berry, dark spice and Mediterranean herb aromas lift out of the glass, accented by a whiff of new leather. The enveloping, full-bodied palate doles out fleshy black cherry, star anise, pipe tobacco and cinnamon notes, framed by chewy tannins. Drink 2020–2027.
Wild berry, exotic spice, crushed violet and a whiff of Mediterranean herb aromas lead the way. The polished, austere palate offers up dried black cherry, leather, anise and white pepper framed in assertive tannins. Give this a few more years to soften then enjoy. Drink from 2019 through 2024.
Wild berry, forest floor, chopped herb and a balsamic note are some of the aromas you'll find in this bright, elegant red. The vibrant, medium-bodied palate offers crushed raspberry, red cherry and baking spice flavors, buttressed by taut, polished tannins and fresh acidity. A blast of orange zest further lifts the finish. Drink 2019–2027.
Wild berry, fragrant blue flowers, pipe tobacco and sun-baked earth aromas come together in the glass. It's bright, with notes of clove, white pepper and tobacco adding interest to the black cherry core. Lithe tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors.