zhuchi76/wine_review · Datasets at Hugging Face

wine_id int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 41 values	description stringlengths 20 764	designation stringlengths 1 85	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 1.1k
41,822	us	this chewy, still-tight cabernet is full-bodied on the palate, revealing savory, herbaceous characteristics. made in a robust style, it's approachable and enjoyable now.	Reserve	88	27
91,794	argentina	a fleshy wine with aromas of wet clay and earth. it seems a little hot and herbal at its foundation, but around the edges there are flavors of cherry and raspberry. the feel is chunky and innocuous, with mild tannins.	Coleccion	83	12
66,974	us	the oak—85% new french—plays a large role, with aromas of cocoa, vanilla and woodspice playing off plum and red fruit. it's sleek and sultry in feel, with the wood getting out in front of the tart fruit flavors.	Estate	87	32
67,695	us	jammy aromas, tangy raspberry and blackberry flavors and a firm vein of tannin make this medium-bodied wine easy to enjoy and firm enough to pair with big proteins.	Midnight Reserve	85	30
74,690	france	just what the label says, this is fresh, fruity, simple and attractive sauvignon blanc. lemon, crisp apple peel and fragrant acidity all meld easily together. screwcap.	Limited Release	84	11
50,486	us	fall line makes its bordeaux blends ava-specific; here the focus is on red mountain, and the wine is composed of 42% cab franc, 29% merlot and 29% cabernet sauvignon. an elegant wine, it shows refined tannins, mature fruit flavors, already light bricking and aromas of plump fruits, pie cherry and tobacco. drink now.	Red Mountain Red Wine	89	30
4,323	us	grown in the sebastopol hills area, this pinot tastes very young and jammy and immature. released at less than a year of age, it's thick and a little heavy, with cherry, currant and mocha flavors not yet meshed with oak. one wonders why the winery didn't hold it back another year or so. but it could develop in the bottle. try after 2010.	Umino Vineyard	89	48
18,301	italy	this edition of le sughere di frassinello shows impressive softness and richness, with round tones of red cherry, chocolate, spice, leather and tobacco. it's soft, luscious and very smooth on the finish.	Le Sughere di Frassinello	91	33
4,183	france	this is a structured, still young and extracted wine, with dark tannins and spice from the wood aging. in the background, the red-berry fruits are developing and filling out to give a balance to the wine. drink from 2017.	Les Papilles	87	18
95,866	us	tastes like there's too much oak on this chard. although the new wood is only 20%, the wine oozes sweet, caramelized vanilla, with only modest expressions of fruit. the underlying wine just isn't powerful enough to support that powerhouse overlay.	O.F.S.	84	30
88,674	us	powerful, natural, uncomplicated grape aromas and flavors fuel this light-bodied but memorable wine. with each sip its depth, complexity and appeal improve. the density and intensity of the fruit flavors combine with very firm tannins and lively acidity to make it nervy and delicious. best now through 2019.	Chileno Valley Vineyard	91	44
111,187	spain	bulky and clumsy, with powerful early barnyard aromas that ultimately give way to more refined plum and cherry. while this wine has its virtues, it lacks elegance. and while we admit that it's a country wine that's probably meant to be a sizable, rustic quaff, it seems a bit too basic and borderline to garner a better review.	Riscal 1860	84	8
40,730	italy	named after the mighty republic of venice, serenissima opens with sharp effervescence and bright aromas of citrus and white flower. this easy effort is crisp and clean on the finish.	Extra Dry	85	7
4,889	us	milk chocolate and dark plum combine to nice effect in this majority-merlot, blended with almost 25% cabernet sauvignon. dry, savory and spicy in cinnamon and clove, the wine is substantially dense and thick on the palate.	Mat Kearney	87	22
31,114	us	this wine's pink color edges ever so slightly toward brown, and offers aromas of orange juice and pink rose petals. it's a tad flat on the palate, suggesting sour orange and lemon rinds, a touch of maraschino cherry and a slight baking-soda minerality.	Rose of	85	20
70,742	us	a blend of 75% syrah and 25% cabernet sauvignon, this wine is somewhat unformed, with notions of black olive and garrigue suggested but never quite committed to. the finish is lean and diluted.	Black and Blue	83	65
3,942	us	funky with prune and tobacco overwhelming any fresher fruit, this livermore zin is high in alcohol (15.8%), which coats the tongue for a long time after the wine goes down.	Hansen Vineyard Reserve	83	33
85,533	austria	a very restrained nose hints at citrus zest which comes into full, exciting force on the concentrated, taut and slender palate. this is so fine, so clean, that it suggests a cool, alpine stream. zesty freshness conquers all—just a few peppery, yeasty notes are glimpsed at the edges. a racy memento of the 2014 vintage.	Privat Senftenberger Pellingen Reserve	93	60
5,449	italy	you'd be hard pressed to think of another italian sparkling wine made from ribolla gialla grapes, a native variety of northeast italy. this rare expression offers aromas of yellow flower and stone fruit followed by a smooth, fresh mouthfeel.	Brut	88	50
69,255	us	this has a dry finish with modest alcohol, and its emphasis is on phenolic flavors rather than the usual floral-perfumed aromas that characterize most versions of the grape. here you'll find lemon rind, pineapple and tart, mineral-soaked acids. it's a fine match for white fish, shellfish, scallops or oysters.	Gloria Anne	88	15
112,568	us	this 100% varietal wine, barrel-aged in french and american oak, offers aromas of vanilla, cranberry, cinnamon and raisinated red fruit, seeming a bit advanced for its age. the palate has tart acids and good flavor concentration, backed by somewhat blocky tannins.	Celebration Series	88	28
96,765	israel	this pale apricot-colored semidry wine is a blend of cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc. aromas of butterscotch and nectarine get the taste buds prepared for flavors of butterscotch, peach, rose petal and nutmeg. it is a gently sweet wine that is not at all cloying, with nicely balanced acidity.	White Franc	89	30
27,512	spain	apple, peach and yeast aromas are welcoming but a little wayward. this brut nature shows roundness on the palate and no coarseness. briny apple and dried-apricot flavors are calm on the finish.	Brut Nature Vintage	89	20
32,698	us	meaning “from the vine,” this 100% whole-cluster bottling presents black cherry, tart pomegranate, graphite, baking spice and sage bark on the nose. there's lots of dark herbs and dark fruit on the palate as well as black-olive depth and black-slate minerality. with the density of herbs, it's a bit like chewing on sage and eucalyptus.	Ex Vite	90	38
80,051	us	the three guys in question are former professional football players who shared a love of wine, enough to launch this small-production project. it delivers juicy apple and pear in a lusciously creamy texture that shows a hint of stony minerality and nutmeg, the fruit coming back to the fore on the powerful finish.	Sangiacomo Vineyard	92	40
4,632	france	from a sloping flinty vineyard, this is an impressive wine. it is powered by its tight tense texture to give a concentrated essence of sauvignon blanc. the wine, with its green and citrus fruits, is tangy, steely and needing to age. drink from 2019.	Le Rochoy	94	30
6,588	us	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.	Las Madres Vineyard	93	38
121,026	us	this wine comes from the niven family, whose winemaker christian roguenant enjoys pushing varietal boundaries. lively and vivacious, aromas suggest jasmine tea, lime, green pear and wet cement minerality. the palate blends the welcoming flavors of orange blossoms with cut-grass herbaciousness and chalky minerals.	Paragon Vineyard	88	17
54,909	us	inviting macerated strawberry aromas mix with light plum, pink peach flesh and the original hubba bubba bubblegum scent. the delicious palate is driven by a subtle sense of cotton candy, all cut with a lime peel acidity.	Rosé of	90	22
108,034	us	this bordeaux-style blend of 48% merlot, 42% cabernet sauvignon, and 10% cab franc looks a bit murky, unfiltered, and is currently showing a lot of influence from barrel aging. medium-weight blackberry and cassis fruit is married to dark chocolate, with a dash of black olive in the mix. it's tasty for drinking 2017–2019.	Reckoning	89	39
8,201	us	full-bodied, complex and delicious, with extraordinarily ripe flavors of blackberries, cherries, currants, chocolate, grilled meat, tamari, violets, sweet fresh herbs and black pepper. quite dry and tannic now, with a youthful, primary fruit character that suggests ageability. best 2010–2012.	High Slopes	91	35
49,700	austria	this wine does take time to open up but convinces with a spicy freshness dominated by lemon zest and a suggestion of wet pebbles. concentrated yet subtle, this deserves some aging but is delicious right now.	Grassnitzberg	91	33
111,048	italy	rosso carillon is aged one year in oak to produce smoky notes of toasted almond and exotic spice. the bright, compact mouthfeel offers cola, sour cherry and wild blueberry endnotes.	Carillon	87	30
55,127	us	blending 75% cabernet franc with 25% merlot, this wine is mildly aromatic on the nose, showing red cherry, spice and violet. while the palate is medium in weight, a string of acidity cuts short the blackberry and cherry flavors. grainy tannins build on the finish, with a shock of cranberry and vanilla marking the close.	Reserve Right Bank Crain Hill Vineyard	85	60
36,355	italy	this is creamy, elegant ribolla gialla that offers soft tones of peach, melon, yellow rose, vanilla, honey and bee's wax. the wine tastes fruity and fresh and has enough consistency to drive its flavors over a long, satisfying finish.	Rjgialla Selènze	88	21
35,022	us	a really nice pinot noir, rich and silky, with gentle tannins and fine, crisp acidity. it's delicately structured, but powerful in raspberry, rosehip tea, vanilla, spice and sandalwood flavors. an upscale wine that gets better as it breathes in the glass.	Chorro Creek Vineyard	92	38
95,975	us	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.	Estate	89	20
49,432	us	sourced entirely from old vine tapteil fruit, this spent 32 months in french and american oak. it's loaded—as per usual with this winery—with generous, dark and smoky flavors of espresso, smoke and charcoal. but the fruit has the power and depth to handle it well, and as the wine breathes it smoothes out into a thoroughly luscious quaff.	Reserve Tapteil Vineyard	92	43
113,405	argentina	subtle and fairly deep, with aromas of berry, pastry and cherry cough drop. it feels lively and good, with blueberry and plum flavors in front of a textured, medium-deep finish.	Alta	87	9
25,693	romania	pristine on the nose and palate, this dry, full-bodied chardonnay is a prime example of how thoroughly modern romanian winemaking can be. juicy and floral with pretty hints of apple blossoms, it's creamy and rich in texture, yet impeccably refreshing on the finish.	Theia Limited Edition	88	20
9,134	italy	there is only a handful of kosher sparkling proseccos out there, and this is one of them. lively and bright, the wine shows citrus, stone fruit and dried hay aromas.	Banero	84	8
81,077	france	a perfumed wine in a square bottle, this is just off dry, with crispness and an herbal, green-fruit character. the wine is peppery, ripe and ready to drink.	Pure Loire	84	15
91,988	us	this wine is a light gold color, with appetizing pear and crisp apple aromas. firm acidity, a lively texture and absolutely fresh flavors make it a pleasure to drink.	Cuvée Brut Made With Organically Grown Grapes	89	25
84,763	us	austere and steely at first, this white settles into crisp, tangy grapefruit and lemon notes, centered around a bright, medium body. the mouthfeel is crisp and clean, uncomplicated, yet well-crafted and composed.	Estate	89	19
83,045	france	stéphane brocard is based in marsannay the northernmost vineyard in burgundy's côte d'or. this wine comes from two small parcels with 35-year-old vines. it is already fruity and attractive, although the tannins do promise aging. crisp with the pure acidity of the vintage, it will develop well and should be drunk from late 2017.	Closerie des Alisiers Vieilles Vignes	89	35
21,484	italy	this barbera's black cherry, blackberry and clove aromas segue to its simple palate. supple tannins and brisk acidity lend support. drink through 2019.	I Tre Vescovi	87	19
91,997	italy	there are enticing notes here of caramel and butterscotch that are so minute and delicate they come across as accents. beyond those notes is granny smith apple and chopped fruit, over a smooth, soft texture.	Extra Dry	85	25
117,806	italy	it opens with aromas of oak extract and burned tire rubber. the lean palate delivers toasted oak, vanilla and espresso alongside astringent oak tannins. it lacks fruit richness.	Ginestra	86	70
95,050	france	this is a very fine wine with considerable bottle age. from its orange-pink color to its mature toast and almond flavors, this complex wine is much more than the fruit that has merged with the secondary flavors. light tannins and a crisp texture are balanced by the softness that comes from the relatively high dosage. the wine, beautifully mature, is ready to drink.	Dom Pérignon Brut Rosé	95	320
9,591	portugal	this lightly perfumed wine is crisp and clear. apple and pear flavors are attractively packaged in fresh acidity and an orange-peel tang. the wine is still young, with its tight aftertaste, so wait until later in 2015 to drink.	Palha Canas	85	10
96,651	australia	this wine from high-altitude inland victoria is built around acids, not tannins. it's full bodied but bright, lively and refreshing, with crisp cherry and cassis fruit framed by hints of tobacco, vanilla and mint.	Stone Dwellers	90	20
110,993	us	even and smooth, this paso robles contender comes on strong with round, jammy red berry and rhubarb fruit offset by pepper and dusty rose accents. a green note does show early and persists, but the wine still has very good feel, and the silky finish displays a long pepper and red berry fade.	James Gang Reserve	87	26
111,803	france	classic southwest france sauvignon blanc, bright, fresh and citrus-flavored. great for summer drinking, clean and delicious.	Reserve	86	8
40,976	italy	fruity and fresh, this is a sweet-smelling, but not over-the-top prosecco dry with measured aromas of chopped fruit salad, kiwi and citrus. the wine offers an easy, fresh approach and ends with a long trail of sweet fruit.	Millesimato Dry	86	18
63,563	italy	blue flower, mature plum, licorice, clove, mocha and menthol aromas all come together on this brawny red. the warm, bold palate delivers juicy black cherry, espresso, ground pepper and anisette alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. showing the heat of the vintage, it won't need years to come around. drink 2018–2028.	Castelletto	90	70
20,571	us	made from organically farmed grapes grown in an estate vineyard, then cradled in american oak, this delivers subdued aromas of ripe, lusty lemon and big oak. lurching toward the finish are flavors of caramel and bittersweet dried fruit.	Reserve	86	65
53,932	spain	hard oak on the nose creates a pinched, chemical sensation. give this time and that goes away, leaving minerally apple and peach aromas. in the mouth, this is firm and intense, with peppery flavors, sherry notes and almondy accents. a bitter finish with nut skins and dryness registers as complex.	Blanc de Montsalvat	88	40
127,280	south africa	this blend of 48% merlot, 35% malbec and 17% cabernet sauvignon is plush and accessible, with attractively ripe notes of brambly blackberry, raspberry and cherry on the nose and palate. soft, spicy tannins lend the wine a crushed-velvet texture, while hints of licorice, vanilla bean, fruitcake spice and black tea add depth to the medium-weight mouthfeel and linger long through the finish. drinkable now, but should hold well through 2020.	Series M	92	79
99,730	france	the old vines here do give some concentration. more importantly, they give a great swathe of ripe fruit that is so crisp and refreshing. lemon and the lightest texture are lifted by intense acidity and a lively, fresh aftertaste. this wine is ready to drink.	Sélection Vieilles Vignes Sur Lie	89	14
26,939	italy	this pinot nero opens with candied aromas of raspberry, citrus and wild strawberry, followed by a lean but fresh feel on the palate.	Tenuta San Michele	87	60
82,271	us	bob tillman and his daughter, maggie, run this winery in a hands-on way. this thick, viscous wine offers hearty cherry and baked black plum mixed with black spice, roast beef and espresso on the nose. the lush palate shows more cooked purple fruit and intense black-cherry syrup along with concentrated lavender flowers and strong acidity.	Ann's Block	92	55
26,296	italy	citto is an informal tuscan red made with organically-farmed fruit that opens with bright cherry, blueberry, light spice and leather. this is a very likable wine with bright fruit freshness and all the easy qualities needed to pair next to a heaping plate of fettuccine and meat sauce.	Citto	87	11
7,514	us	dense and intense, with loads of fine-grained tannin, this is a deep, dark-colored wine with oodles of flavor and a very thick texture. as massive as it is in texture though, delicious flavors like blackberry, blueberry and dark chocolate come through and then linger on the finish. drink from 2016 to 2026.	Naylor Vineyard	92	29
24,102	us	roth's virgin berry riesling, made from tiny seedless grapes, typically exhibits an intensity of flavor distinct from its standard-labeled bottling. this vintage suggests a deeply mineral-intense expression with concentrated lime and tart tangerine flavors layered in dusty minerals and earth tones. it's zippy and light in body but finishes with piercing lemon-lime intensity.	Virgin Berry Dry	90	32
1,806	spain	cidery aromas are briny. this feels low on bubbles but propped up by citric acidity. orange and lettuce flavors end in pedestrian fashion, with a note of green herbs. this cava's moderate, straightforward personality is due to the fact that it's 100% xarello.	Essential	85	15
33,101	spain	floral and tropical aromas include a note of lemon blossom. this wine feels friendly, with enough acidity to create raciness. slightly oily tropical fruit flavors hold steady on the finish. drink now.	Viña Tobía	88	16
9,132	france	there should be more muscat planted in alsace if this fine wine is anything to go by. it brings out all the ethereal perfume of the grape, offering a ripe character while remaining delicate and elegant. the acidity lightens the final tone.	Terroir	90	18
53,570	france	this blend of pinot noir and pinot meunier is full bodied and rich. red-berry aromas are followed on the palate with tangy apricot and strawberry fruitiness. it is a ripe wine, ready to drink.	Charles VII Grande Cuvée des Lys Blanc de Noirs Brut	89	50
17,249	spain	pickled and leesy on the nose, this kosher cava runs low on verve and bubbles. scallion, green herb and green banana flavors finish similarly, with herbal notes leading the way. 100% macabeo.	Excelencia	85	18
18,153	us	this winery produces luxuriously rich wines, and this blend of 47% merlot, 30% petit verdot, 12% malbec and 11% cabernet sauvignon fits right in. aromas suggest vanilla-cherry cream, fresh cracked dark chocolate, mulberry extract and root beer. cola, blackberries and woody herbs show once sipped.	Party of Four	88	59
24,672	new zealand	with almost 2% residual sugar, you might expect this wine to taste sweet. it does—to a point. the strong lime-like finish provides a balancing counterpoint that makes this floral wine very drinkable with food. clove and cinnamon notes add complexity to ripe pear fruit.	Classic	88	15
84,183	spain	the under-$10 high scorer is fast disappearing, so take a good look at this young, jammy tempranillo-shiraz blend that hits nicely with ripe boysenberry and black plum. the shiraz seems to have darkened the wine, and the mouthfeel is ripe and lush.	Tempranillo + Shiraz	88	8
117,082	us	a complex and complete wine with everything in place, this tastes delicious from the first whiff to the lingering finish. it has fresh-baked bread and light peach aromas and white-cherry flavors. well balanced, it's layered on a subtle level and harmonious.	Brut Rosé	93	29
42,662	canada	a sniff of truffle introduces this light but interesting wine. it's still youthful and tight, with tart fruit conjuring up sour cherry pie. another couple of years in the bottle would put the optimal drinking between 2018 and 2020.	Oldfield Series	87	33
115,320	france	this rich, delicious wine is still bursting with young apple and grapefruit flavors, giving it a fruity start with great long-term potential. then the concentration and the richly mineral texture kicks in, lending the wine intensity and the possibility of aging. drink from 2019.	Marie-Amélie Fleur de Vigne Brut Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Millésime	94	87
24,406	austria	this wine's peardrop fruitiness is evident right away. fresh but slightly dilute, it's a very light, easy-drinking party wine with a dry finish. drink now.	Wimmer	86	13
11,496	australia	made in a somewhat restrained, focused style, this wine features hints of smoke combined with peach and pineapple notes to create the impression of grilled fruit aromas and flavors. it's linear and crisp on the palate, with admirable length and mouthwatering citrus notes on the finish. ready to drink now.	Kevin John	92	75
69,466	us	honeysuckle and orange blossoms perfume this bright, ebullient wine full of ripe grapefruit and pineapple flavors. while dry in style, it juxtaposes a lusciously rich, penetrating palate against a pulsating backbone of lemon-line acidity. it's pristine yet powerful through a long, undulating finish.	No. 239 Single Vineyard	92	19
27,454	us	like taking in a fresh bouquet of flowers just in bloom, this deliciously crafted moscato frivolo, slightly fizzy and superlatively refreshing, is a lovely surprise at just 7% alcohol and $16. start your night off with a glass or let it guide you through a meal, serve cold and take in its candied orange and jasmine amidst the bubbles.	Frivolo	90	16
42,707	us	lemon and mineral tones dominate and show more intensity and definition on the nose than the palate. turns a bit tart on the finish. this is a wine that screams for raw oysters.	Old Vines	83	25
63,582	spain	this is so toasty and heavily oaked that it smells burnt and acrid. in the mouth this is pinched, tannic and tough. flavors of plum, raspberry and vanilla finish scratchy and abrasive with drum-like tightness. drink now.	Reserva	86	33
109,748	us	as before, the estate selection is the bigger of the two pinots from amalie, textural and clean. strawberry and raspberry fruit flavors hint at herb and stem, but all the details are in proportion and complement each other. not for long aging, but drinking well right now.	Estate Selection	89	50
26,444	france	this wine is already well balanced. ripe strawberries and red cherries are shot through with the acidity of the vintage. the tannins are present, complementing the already attractive fruits. the aftertaste shows the considerable potential with its tannins. drink from 2020.	Les Cazetiers Premier Cru	94	145
46,711	us	smooth in tannins with a nice bite of acidity, this shows rich flavors of blackberry, cherry and spice, with a touch of mocha that gives it an apparent sweetness. it's a bordeaux blend with some syrah, grown in the famed stagecoach vineyard.	Veraison	91	50
92,953	france	this is a red that shows some richness— ripe cherry flavor, as well as good layer of tannins. there is a juicy character to the wine that is balanced by the smoky flavors from wood aging. drink now and until 2018.	Bonheur Convivial	87	17
1,167	italy	here is a very clean and pristine prosecco brut with measured but distinct notes of white peach, acacia flower and chopped kiwi. the wine tastes creamy and slightly sweet with chewy peach flavors. it makes a perfect aperitif wine.	Special Cuvée Brut	86	13
124,949	us	although this is from the sonoma coast appellation, it's high elevation, so the vineyard is often above the fog that plagues the lower russian river valley. as a result, the wine is quite ripe and forward in jammy raspberries, cherries, licorice and cola. new french oak adds the usual smoky, vanilla accents.	Clone 828	89	55
13,615	us	this appears to be a wine that's simply over-reached. noticeably high-toned, with a vinegary bite to the cherry flavored fruit, it's pushed it a bit too far. not even 28 months in three quarters new french oak can mask the volatility.	Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4	84	50
22,167	us	argyle's reserve shows more barrel flavor than the regular willamette valley bottling, highlighting an interesting mix of asian spice and coffee. but the tannins are oddly absent; there seems to be a bit of a hole in the back of the wine. it opens beautifully, then hits a dead spot. a good wine, but missing something.	Reserve	87	37
111,896	italy	quater is a rich red blend that opens with blackberry, rum cake, indian spice, cola and ground clove. it combines intensity and complexity with a bold, opulent mouthfeel.	Quater	90	32
72,840	spain	gritty, heavily roasted aromas of stewed berry, coffee grinds and compost are less than appealing, although with airing things improve. this is wide and blocky in the mouth, with ripe, raisiny, roasted black-fruit flavors matched by bitter espresso. molasses and heat drive the finish on this pricey wine that's not in great shape.	Reserva	86	52
104,568	italy	aromas include dark berry, blue flower, leather and a balsamic note. the palate delivers juicy black cherry, coffee, toast and mocha alongside chewy tannins.	Fondo Filara	90	15
93,873	italy	pretty aromas of blue flower and forest floor take center stage in this straightforward blend of 90% sangiovese and 10% alicante. the fresh, juicy palate is dominated by wild cherry, while black pepper notes add interest. soft and round, this isn't complex but it is extremely friendly and delicious. enjoy soon. guido & son italian imports, old bridge cellars.	A Luciano	88	15
19,986	israel	draws you in with its brilliant ruby color and assertive bouquet of dark plum, black cherry and berry nuanced with menthol and dirt. a full, round mouthfeel and soft, fleeting tannins showcase the wine's solid balance, and the strong finish is not sweet or overdone.	Kosher	87	24
37,947	us	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.	Gratitude	85	14
118,552	portugal	soft, fruity wine, with an earthy character. the wine has acidity and red fruits with a final fresh burst of ripeness. not for aging, drink now.	Crasto	85	20
79,334	us	coming from the winery's young estate vineyard, this 100% varietal wine conveys aromas of coffee, braised green pepper and herbs along with bittersweet chocolate and mineral accents. the cherry and herb flavors show good weight and intensity, with the tart acids and grainy tannins bringing plenty of appeal. it needs significant time in the cellar to show its best. enjoy after 2024.	Owl & Crown	89	65
27,195	france	this 16–acre estate is run biodynamically, producing intensely flavored, honeyed, ripe wines. this is succulent from ripe fruit, with the acidity bright and vivid, finishing with sweet pineapple and apricot flavors.	Quintaine	90	33
15,348	france	as its 14.5% indicates, this is a particularly rich wine. maybe too rich, because it is all superripe black fruit without the balance of structure or acidity. enjoy it as a blockbuster, probably not with food.	Cuvée J.J. Lesgourges	84	17
69,339	argentina	starts with baked, candied, mildly raisiny aromas that hint at expiration, but the wine has good grab and acidity on the palate along with dry fruit flavors, licorice and spice. persistent but not special, with a light, supple finish. it's 72% malbec with bonarda and syrah.	Amado Sur	86	15

41,822

us

this chewy, still-tight cabernet is full-bodied on the palate, revealing savory, herbaceous characteristics. made in a robust style, it's approachable and enjoyable now.

Reserve

88

27

91,794

argentina

a fleshy wine with aromas of wet clay and earth. it seems a little hot and herbal at its foundation, but around the edges there are flavors of cherry and raspberry. the feel is chunky and innocuous, with mild tannins.

Coleccion

83

12

66,974

us

the oak—85% new french—plays a large role, with aromas of cocoa, vanilla and woodspice playing off plum and red fruit. it's sleek and sultry in feel, with the wood getting out in front of the tart fruit flavors.

Estate

87

32

67,695

us

jammy aromas, tangy raspberry and blackberry flavors and a firm vein of tannin make this medium-bodied wine easy to enjoy and firm enough to pair with big proteins.

Midnight Reserve

85

30

74,690

france

just what the label says, this is fresh, fruity, simple and attractive sauvignon blanc. lemon, crisp apple peel and fragrant acidity all meld easily together. screwcap.

Limited Release

84

11

50,486

us

fall line makes its bordeaux blends ava-specific; here the focus is on red mountain, and the wine is composed of 42% cab franc, 29% merlot and 29% cabernet sauvignon. an elegant wine, it shows refined tannins, mature fruit flavors, already light bricking and aromas of plump fruits, pie cherry and tobacco. drink now.

Red Mountain Red Wine

89

30

4,323

us

grown in the sebastopol hills area, this pinot tastes very young and jammy and immature. released at less than a year of age, it's thick and a little heavy, with cherry, currant and mocha flavors not yet meshed with oak. one wonders why the winery didn't hold it back another year or so. but it could develop in the bottle. try after 2010.

Umino Vineyard

89

48

18,301

italy

this edition of le sughere di frassinello shows impressive softness and richness, with round tones of red cherry, chocolate, spice, leather and tobacco. it's soft, luscious and very smooth on the finish.

Le Sughere di Frassinello

91

33

4,183

france

this is a structured, still young and extracted wine, with dark tannins and spice from the wood aging. in the background, the red-berry fruits are developing and filling out to give a balance to the wine. drink from 2017.

Les Papilles

87

18

95,866

us

tastes like there's too much oak on this chard. although the new wood is only 20%, the wine oozes sweet, caramelized vanilla, with only modest expressions of fruit. the underlying wine just isn't powerful enough to support that powerhouse overlay.

O.F.S.

84

30

88,674

us

powerful, natural, uncomplicated grape aromas and flavors fuel this light-bodied but memorable wine. with each sip its depth, complexity and appeal improve. the density and intensity of the fruit flavors combine with very firm tannins and lively acidity to make it nervy and delicious. best now through 2019.

Chileno Valley Vineyard

91

44

111,187

spain

bulky and clumsy, with powerful early barnyard aromas that ultimately give way to more refined plum and cherry. while this wine has its virtues, it lacks elegance. and while we admit that it's a country wine that's probably meant to be a sizable, rustic quaff, it seems a bit too basic and borderline to garner a better review.

Riscal 1860

84

8

40,730

italy

named after the mighty republic of venice, serenissima opens with sharp effervescence and bright aromas of citrus and white flower. this easy effort is crisp and clean on the finish.

Extra Dry

85

7

4,889

us

milk chocolate and dark plum combine to nice effect in this majority-merlot, blended with almost 25% cabernet sauvignon. dry, savory and spicy in cinnamon and clove, the wine is substantially dense and thick on the palate.

Mat Kearney

87

22

31,114

us

this wine's pink color edges ever so slightly toward brown, and offers aromas of orange juice and pink rose petals. it's a tad flat on the palate, suggesting sour orange and lemon rinds, a touch of maraschino cherry and a slight baking-soda minerality.

Rose of

85

20

70,742

us

a blend of 75% syrah and 25% cabernet sauvignon, this wine is somewhat unformed, with notions of black olive and garrigue suggested but never quite committed to. the finish is lean and diluted.

Black and Blue

83

65

3,942

us

funky with prune and tobacco overwhelming any fresher fruit, this livermore zin is high in alcohol (15.8%), which coats the tongue for a long time after the wine goes down.

Hansen Vineyard Reserve

83

33

85,533

austria

a very restrained nose hints at citrus zest which comes into full, exciting force on the concentrated, taut and slender palate. this is so fine, so clean, that it suggests a cool, alpine stream. zesty freshness conquers all—just a few peppery, yeasty notes are glimpsed at the edges. a racy memento of the 2014 vintage.

Privat Senftenberger Pellingen Reserve

93

60

5,449

italy

you'd be hard pressed to think of another italian sparkling wine made from ribolla gialla grapes, a native variety of northeast italy. this rare expression offers aromas of yellow flower and stone fruit followed by a smooth, fresh mouthfeel.

Brut

88

50

69,255

us

this has a dry finish with modest alcohol, and its emphasis is on phenolic flavors rather than the usual floral-perfumed aromas that characterize most versions of the grape. here you'll find lemon rind, pineapple and tart, mineral-soaked acids. it's a fine match for white fish, shellfish, scallops or oysters.

Gloria Anne

88

15

112,568

us

this 100% varietal wine, barrel-aged in french and american oak, offers aromas of vanilla, cranberry, cinnamon and raisinated red fruit, seeming a bit advanced for its age. the palate has tart acids and good flavor concentration, backed by somewhat blocky tannins.

Celebration Series

88

28

96,765

israel

this pale apricot-colored semidry wine is a blend of cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc. aromas of butterscotch and nectarine get the taste buds prepared for flavors of butterscotch, peach, rose petal and nutmeg. it is a gently sweet wine that is not at all cloying, with nicely balanced acidity.

White Franc

89

30

27,512

spain

apple, peach and yeast aromas are welcoming but a little wayward. this brut nature shows roundness on the palate and no coarseness. briny apple and dried-apricot flavors are calm on the finish.

Brut Nature Vintage

89

20

32,698

us

meaning “from the vine,” this 100% whole-cluster bottling presents black cherry, tart pomegranate, graphite, baking spice and sage bark on the nose. there's lots of dark herbs and dark fruit on the palate as well as black-olive depth and black-slate minerality. with the density of herbs, it's a bit like chewing on sage and eucalyptus.

Ex Vite

90

38

80,051

us

the three guys in question are former professional football players who shared a love of wine, enough to launch this small-production project. it delivers juicy apple and pear in a lusciously creamy texture that shows a hint of stony minerality and nutmeg, the fruit coming back to the fore on the powerful finish.

Sangiacomo Vineyard

92

40

4,632

france

from a sloping flinty vineyard, this is an impressive wine. it is powered by its tight tense texture to give a concentrated essence of sauvignon blanc. the wine, with its green and citrus fruits, is tangy, steely and needing to age. drink from 2019.

Le Rochoy

94

30

6,588

us

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.

Las Madres Vineyard

93

38

121,026

us

this wine comes from the niven family, whose winemaker christian roguenant enjoys pushing varietal boundaries. lively and vivacious, aromas suggest jasmine tea, lime, green pear and wet cement minerality. the palate blends the welcoming flavors of orange blossoms with cut-grass herbaciousness and chalky minerals.

Paragon Vineyard

88

17

54,909

us

inviting macerated strawberry aromas mix with light plum, pink peach flesh and the original hubba bubba bubblegum scent. the delicious palate is driven by a subtle sense of cotton candy, all cut with a lime peel acidity.

Rosé of

90

22

108,034

us

this bordeaux-style blend of 48% merlot, 42% cabernet sauvignon, and 10% cab franc looks a bit murky, unfiltered, and is currently showing a lot of influence from barrel aging. medium-weight blackberry and cassis fruit is married to dark chocolate, with a dash of black olive in the mix. it's tasty for drinking 2017–2019.

Reckoning

89

39

8,201

us

full-bodied, complex and delicious, with extraordinarily ripe flavors of blackberries, cherries, currants, chocolate, grilled meat, tamari, violets, sweet fresh herbs and black pepper. quite dry and tannic now, with a youthful, primary fruit character that suggests ageability. best 2010–2012.

High Slopes

91

35

49,700

austria

this wine does take time to open up but convinces with a spicy freshness dominated by lemon zest and a suggestion of wet pebbles. concentrated yet subtle, this deserves some aging but is delicious right now.

Grassnitzberg

91

33

111,048

italy

rosso carillon is aged one year in oak to produce smoky notes of toasted almond and exotic spice. the bright, compact mouthfeel offers cola, sour cherry and wild blueberry endnotes.

Carillon

87

30

55,127

us

blending 75% cabernet franc with 25% merlot, this wine is mildly aromatic on the nose, showing red cherry, spice and violet. while the palate is medium in weight, a string of acidity cuts short the blackberry and cherry flavors. grainy tannins build on the finish, with a shock of cranberry and vanilla marking the close.

Reserve Right Bank Crain Hill Vineyard

85

60

36,355

italy

this is creamy, elegant ribolla gialla that offers soft tones of peach, melon, yellow rose, vanilla, honey and bee's wax. the wine tastes fruity and fresh and has enough consistency to drive its flavors over a long, satisfying finish.

Rjgialla Selènze

88

21

35,022

us

a really nice pinot noir, rich and silky, with gentle tannins and fine, crisp acidity. it's delicately structured, but powerful in raspberry, rosehip tea, vanilla, spice and sandalwood flavors. an upscale wine that gets better as it breathes in the glass.

Chorro Creek Vineyard

92

38

95,975

us

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.

Estate

89

20

49,432

us

sourced entirely from old vine tapteil fruit, this spent 32 months in french and american oak. it's loaded—as per usual with this winery—with generous, dark and smoky flavors of espresso, smoke and charcoal. but the fruit has the power and depth to handle it well, and as the wine breathes it smoothes out into a thoroughly luscious quaff.

Reserve Tapteil Vineyard

92

43

113,405

argentina

subtle and fairly deep, with aromas of berry, pastry and cherry cough drop. it feels lively and good, with blueberry and plum flavors in front of a textured, medium-deep finish.

Alta

87

9

25,693

romania

pristine on the nose and palate, this dry, full-bodied chardonnay is a prime example of how thoroughly modern romanian winemaking can be. juicy and floral with pretty hints of apple blossoms, it's creamy and rich in texture, yet impeccably refreshing on the finish.

Theia Limited Edition

88

20

9,134

italy

there is only a handful of kosher sparkling proseccos out there, and this is one of them. lively and bright, the wine shows citrus, stone fruit and dried hay aromas.

Banero

84

8

81,077

france

a perfumed wine in a square bottle, this is just off dry, with crispness and an herbal, green-fruit character. the wine is peppery, ripe and ready to drink.

Pure Loire

84

15

91,988

us

this wine is a light gold color, with appetizing pear and crisp apple aromas. firm acidity, a lively texture and absolutely fresh flavors make it a pleasure to drink.

Cuvée Brut Made With Organically Grown Grapes

89

25

84,763

us

austere and steely at first, this white settles into crisp, tangy grapefruit and lemon notes, centered around a bright, medium body. the mouthfeel is crisp and clean, uncomplicated, yet well-crafted and composed.

Estate

89

19

83,045

france

stéphane brocard is based in marsannay the northernmost vineyard in burgundy's côte d'or. this wine comes from two small parcels with 35-year-old vines. it is already fruity and attractive, although the tannins do promise aging. crisp with the pure acidity of the vintage, it will develop well and should be drunk from late 2017.

Closerie des Alisiers Vieilles Vignes

89

35

21,484

italy

this barbera's black cherry, blackberry and clove aromas segue to its simple palate. supple tannins and brisk acidity lend support. drink through 2019.

I Tre Vescovi

87

19

91,997

italy

there are enticing notes here of caramel and butterscotch that are so minute and delicate they come across as accents. beyond those notes is granny smith apple and chopped fruit, over a smooth, soft texture.

Extra Dry

85

25

117,806

italy

it opens with aromas of oak extract and burned tire rubber. the lean palate delivers toasted oak, vanilla and espresso alongside astringent oak tannins. it lacks fruit richness.

Ginestra

86

70

95,050

france

this is a very fine wine with considerable bottle age. from its orange-pink color to its mature toast and almond flavors, this complex wine is much more than the fruit that has merged with the secondary flavors. light tannins and a crisp texture are balanced by the softness that comes from the relatively high dosage. the wine, beautifully mature, is ready to drink.

Dom Pérignon Brut Rosé

95

320

9,591

portugal

this lightly perfumed wine is crisp and clear. apple and pear flavors are attractively packaged in fresh acidity and an orange-peel tang. the wine is still young, with its tight aftertaste, so wait until later in 2015 to drink.

Palha Canas

85

10

96,651

australia

this wine from high-altitude inland victoria is built around acids, not tannins. it's full bodied but bright, lively and refreshing, with crisp cherry and cassis fruit framed by hints of tobacco, vanilla and mint.

Stone Dwellers

90

20

110,993

us

even and smooth, this paso robles contender comes on strong with round, jammy red berry and rhubarb fruit offset by pepper and dusty rose accents. a green note does show early and persists, but the wine still has very good feel, and the silky finish displays a long pepper and red berry fade.

James Gang Reserve

87

26

111,803

france

classic southwest france sauvignon blanc, bright, fresh and citrus-flavored. great for summer drinking, clean and delicious.

Reserve

86

8

40,976

italy

fruity and fresh, this is a sweet-smelling, but not over-the-top prosecco dry with measured aromas of chopped fruit salad, kiwi and citrus. the wine offers an easy, fresh approach and ends with a long trail of sweet fruit.

Millesimato Dry

86

18

63,563

italy

blue flower, mature plum, licorice, clove, mocha and menthol aromas all come together on this brawny red. the warm, bold palate delivers juicy black cherry, espresso, ground pepper and anisette alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins. showing the heat of the vintage, it won't need years to come around. drink 2018–2028.

Castelletto

90

70

20,571

us

made from organically farmed grapes grown in an estate vineyard, then cradled in american oak, this delivers subdued aromas of ripe, lusty lemon and big oak. lurching toward the finish are flavors of caramel and bittersweet dried fruit.

Reserve

86

65

53,932

spain

hard oak on the nose creates a pinched, chemical sensation. give this time and that goes away, leaving minerally apple and peach aromas. in the mouth, this is firm and intense, with peppery flavors, sherry notes and almondy accents. a bitter finish with nut skins and dryness registers as complex.

Blanc de Montsalvat

88

40

127,280

south africa

this blend of 48% merlot, 35% malbec and 17% cabernet sauvignon is plush and accessible, with attractively ripe notes of brambly blackberry, raspberry and cherry on the nose and palate. soft, spicy tannins lend the wine a crushed-velvet texture, while hints of licorice, vanilla bean, fruitcake spice and black tea add depth to the medium-weight mouthfeel and linger long through the finish. drinkable now, but should hold well through 2020.

Series M

92

79

99,730

france

the old vines here do give some concentration. more importantly, they give a great swathe of ripe fruit that is so crisp and refreshing. lemon and the lightest texture are lifted by intense acidity and a lively, fresh aftertaste. this wine is ready to drink.

Sélection Vieilles Vignes Sur Lie

89

14

26,939

italy

this pinot nero opens with candied aromas of raspberry, citrus and wild strawberry, followed by a lean but fresh feel on the palate.

Tenuta San Michele

87

60

82,271

us

bob tillman and his daughter, maggie, run this winery in a hands-on way. this thick, viscous wine offers hearty cherry and baked black plum mixed with black spice, roast beef and espresso on the nose. the lush palate shows more cooked purple fruit and intense black-cherry syrup along with concentrated lavender flowers and strong acidity.

Ann's Block

92

55

26,296

italy

citto is an informal tuscan red made with organically-farmed fruit that opens with bright cherry, blueberry, light spice and leather. this is a very likable wine with bright fruit freshness and all the easy qualities needed to pair next to a heaping plate of fettuccine and meat sauce.

Citto

87

11

7,514

us

dense and intense, with loads of fine-grained tannin, this is a deep, dark-colored wine with oodles of flavor and a very thick texture. as massive as it is in texture though, delicious flavors like blackberry, blueberry and dark chocolate come through and then linger on the finish. drink from 2016 to 2026.

Naylor Vineyard

92

29

24,102

us

roth's virgin berry riesling, made from tiny seedless grapes, typically exhibits an intensity of flavor distinct from its standard-labeled bottling. this vintage suggests a deeply mineral-intense expression with concentrated lime and tart tangerine flavors layered in dusty minerals and earth tones. it's zippy and light in body but finishes with piercing lemon-lime intensity.

Virgin Berry Dry

90

32

1,806

spain

cidery aromas are briny. this feels low on bubbles but propped up by citric acidity. orange and lettuce flavors end in pedestrian fashion, with a note of green herbs. this cava's moderate, straightforward personality is due to the fact that it's 100% xarello.

Essential

85

15

33,101

spain

floral and tropical aromas include a note of lemon blossom. this wine feels friendly, with enough acidity to create raciness. slightly oily tropical fruit flavors hold steady on the finish. drink now.

Viña Tobía

88

16

9,132

france

there should be more muscat planted in alsace if this fine wine is anything to go by. it brings out all the ethereal perfume of the grape, offering a ripe character while remaining delicate and elegant. the acidity lightens the final tone.

Terroir

90

18

53,570

france

this blend of pinot noir and pinot meunier is full bodied and rich. red-berry aromas are followed on the palate with tangy apricot and strawberry fruitiness. it is a ripe wine, ready to drink.

Charles VII Grande Cuvée des Lys Blanc de Noirs Brut

89

50

17,249

spain

pickled and leesy on the nose, this kosher cava runs low on verve and bubbles. scallion, green herb and green banana flavors finish similarly, with herbal notes leading the way. 100% macabeo.

Excelencia

85

18

18,153

us

this winery produces luxuriously rich wines, and this blend of 47% merlot, 30% petit verdot, 12% malbec and 11% cabernet sauvignon fits right in. aromas suggest vanilla-cherry cream, fresh cracked dark chocolate, mulberry extract and root beer. cola, blackberries and woody herbs show once sipped.

Party of Four

88

59

24,672

new zealand

with almost 2% residual sugar, you might expect this wine to taste sweet. it does—to a point. the strong lime-like finish provides a balancing counterpoint that makes this floral wine very drinkable with food. clove and cinnamon notes add complexity to ripe pear fruit.

Classic

88

15

84,183

spain

the under-$10 high scorer is fast disappearing, so take a good look at this young, jammy tempranillo-shiraz blend that hits nicely with ripe boysenberry and black plum. the shiraz seems to have darkened the wine, and the mouthfeel is ripe and lush.

Tempranillo + Shiraz

88

8

117,082

us

a complex and complete wine with everything in place, this tastes delicious from the first whiff to the lingering finish. it has fresh-baked bread and light peach aromas and white-cherry flavors. well balanced, it's layered on a subtle level and harmonious.

Brut Rosé

93

29

42,662

canada

a sniff of truffle introduces this light but interesting wine. it's still youthful and tight, with tart fruit conjuring up sour cherry pie. another couple of years in the bottle would put the optimal drinking between 2018 and 2020.

Oldfield Series

87

33

115,320

france

this rich, delicious wine is still bursting with young apple and grapefruit flavors, giving it a fruity start with great long-term potential. then the concentration and the richly mineral texture kicks in, lending the wine intensity and the possibility of aging. drink from 2019.

Marie-Amélie Fleur de Vigne Brut Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Millésime

94

87

24,406

austria

this wine's peardrop fruitiness is evident right away. fresh but slightly dilute, it's a very light, easy-drinking party wine with a dry finish. drink now.

Wimmer

86

13

11,496

australia

made in a somewhat restrained, focused style, this wine features hints of smoke combined with peach and pineapple notes to create the impression of grilled fruit aromas and flavors. it's linear and crisp on the palate, with admirable length and mouthwatering citrus notes on the finish. ready to drink now.

Kevin John

92

75

69,466

us

honeysuckle and orange blossoms perfume this bright, ebullient wine full of ripe grapefruit and pineapple flavors. while dry in style, it juxtaposes a lusciously rich, penetrating palate against a pulsating backbone of lemon-line acidity. it's pristine yet powerful through a long, undulating finish.

No. 239 Single Vineyard

92

19

27,454

us

like taking in a fresh bouquet of flowers just in bloom, this deliciously crafted moscato frivolo, slightly fizzy and superlatively refreshing, is a lovely surprise at just 7% alcohol and $16. start your night off with a glass or let it guide you through a meal, serve cold and take in its candied orange and jasmine amidst the bubbles.

Frivolo

90

16

42,707

us

lemon and mineral tones dominate and show more intensity and definition on the nose than the palate. turns a bit tart on the finish. this is a wine that screams for raw oysters.

Old Vines

83

25

63,582

spain

this is so toasty and heavily oaked that it smells burnt and acrid. in the mouth this is pinched, tannic and tough. flavors of plum, raspberry and vanilla finish scratchy and abrasive with drum-like tightness. drink now.

Reserva

86

33

109,748

us

as before, the estate selection is the bigger of the two pinots from amalie, textural and clean. strawberry and raspberry fruit flavors hint at herb and stem, but all the details are in proportion and complement each other. not for long aging, but drinking well right now.

Estate Selection

89

50

26,444

france

this wine is already well balanced. ripe strawberries and red cherries are shot through with the acidity of the vintage. the tannins are present, complementing the already attractive fruits. the aftertaste shows the considerable potential with its tannins. drink from 2020.

Les Cazetiers Premier Cru

94

145

46,711

us

smooth in tannins with a nice bite of acidity, this shows rich flavors of blackberry, cherry and spice, with a touch of mocha that gives it an apparent sweetness. it's a bordeaux blend with some syrah, grown in the famed stagecoach vineyard.

Veraison

91

50

92,953

france

this is a red that shows some richness— ripe cherry flavor, as well as good layer of tannins. there is a juicy character to the wine that is balanced by the smoky flavors from wood aging. drink now and until 2018.

Bonheur Convivial

87

17

1,167

italy

here is a very clean and pristine prosecco brut with measured but distinct notes of white peach, acacia flower and chopped kiwi. the wine tastes creamy and slightly sweet with chewy peach flavors. it makes a perfect aperitif wine.

Special Cuvée Brut

86

13

124,949

us

although this is from the sonoma coast appellation, it's high elevation, so the vineyard is often above the fog that plagues the lower russian river valley. as a result, the wine is quite ripe and forward in jammy raspberries, cherries, licorice and cola. new french oak adds the usual smoky, vanilla accents.

Clone 828

89

55

13,615

us

this appears to be a wine that's simply over-reached. noticeably high-toned, with a vinegary bite to the cherry flavored fruit, it's pushed it a bit too far. not even 28 months in three quarters new french oak can mask the volatility.

Copeland Vineyard Brothers No. 4

84

50

22,167

us

argyle's reserve shows more barrel flavor than the regular willamette valley bottling, highlighting an interesting mix of asian spice and coffee. but the tannins are oddly absent; there seems to be a bit of a hole in the back of the wine. it opens beautifully, then hits a dead spot. a good wine, but missing something.

Reserve

87

37

111,896

italy

quater is a rich red blend that opens with blackberry, rum cake, indian spice, cola and ground clove. it combines intensity and complexity with a bold, opulent mouthfeel.

Quater

90

32

72,840

spain

gritty, heavily roasted aromas of stewed berry, coffee grinds and compost are less than appealing, although with airing things improve. this is wide and blocky in the mouth, with ripe, raisiny, roasted black-fruit flavors matched by bitter espresso. molasses and heat drive the finish on this pricey wine that's not in great shape.

Reserva

86

52

104,568

italy

aromas include dark berry, blue flower, leather and a balsamic note. the palate delivers juicy black cherry, coffee, toast and mocha alongside chewy tannins.

Fondo Filara

90

15

93,873

italy

pretty aromas of blue flower and forest floor take center stage in this straightforward blend of 90% sangiovese and 10% alicante. the fresh, juicy palate is dominated by wild cherry, while black pepper notes add interest. soft and round, this isn't complex but it is extremely friendly and delicious. enjoy soon. guido & son italian imports, old bridge cellars.

A Luciano

88

15

19,986

israel

draws you in with its brilliant ruby color and assertive bouquet of dark plum, black cherry and berry nuanced with menthol and dirt. a full, round mouthfeel and soft, fleeting tannins showcase the wine's solid balance, and the strong finish is not sweet or overdone.

Kosher

87

24

37,947

us

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.

Gratitude

85

14

118,552

portugal

soft, fruity wine, with an earthy character. the wine has acidity and red fruits with a final fresh burst of ripeness. not for aging, drink now.

Crasto

85

20

79,334

us

coming from the winery's young estate vineyard, this 100% varietal wine conveys aromas of coffee, braised green pepper and herbs along with bittersweet chocolate and mineral accents. the cherry and herb flavors show good weight and intensity, with the tart acids and grainy tannins bringing plenty of appeal. it needs significant time in the cellar to show its best. enjoy after 2024.

Owl & Crown

89

65

27,195

france

this 16–acre estate is run biodynamically, producing intensely flavored, honeyed, ripe wines. this is succulent from ripe fruit, with the acidity bright and vivid, finishing with sweet pineapple and apricot flavors.

Quintaine

90

33

15,348

france

as its 14.5% indicates, this is a particularly rich wine. maybe too rich, because it is all superripe black fruit without the balance of structure or acidity. enjoy it as a blockbuster, probably not with food.

Cuvée J.J. Lesgourges

84

17

69,339

argentina

starts with baked, candied, mildly raisiny aromas that hint at expiration, but the wine has good grab and acidity on the palate along with dry fruit flavors, licorice and spice. persistent but not special, with a light, supple finish. it's 72% malbec with bonarda and syrah.

Amado Sur

86

15