Wellyowo/wine_review · Datasets at Hugging Face

wine_id int64 1 130k	country stringclasses 41 values	description stringlengths 20 764	designation stringlengths 1 95	points int64 80 100	price float64 4 1.1k
37,157	us	golden yellow coloring and deeply perfumed notes of dried flowers and stone fruits are enticing hints to this wine's extended skin contact during fermentation. but the palate of this dry, light-bodied riesling seems demure with pressed apple and pear flavors that struggle to penetrate through.	Skin Ferment	85	27
57,581	italy	this concentrated wine offers aromas of tobacco leaf, stewed plum, grilled porcini mushroom and sage. the lush palate delivers blackberry extract layered with notes of chocolate and vanilla alongside velvety, embracing tannins.	Bosan Riserva	93	115
108,467	us	with each new vintage of cuvée elena, the blend of grapes and vineyards grows more complex, the vines older, the flavors more compact and captivating. a sophisticated and penetrating mix of strawberry and raspberry preserves, highlights of herb and spice, a dash of clean earth, and a lingering and detailed finish make this a wine to savor immediately while tucking away a few bottles to watch it evolve.	Cuvée Elena	94	40
2,981	australia	you've got to like oak to appreciate this wine, which is presently dominated by scents of vanilla, mocha and toasted coconut. it's full bodied and velvety in texture, with hints of black cherry lurking in the background.	Special Select	91	50
108,811	italy	savory spice and candied fruit notes emerge on the bouquet of this sophisticated wine. it shows tight, silky tannins and delivers a brightly intense finish with notes of dried ginger, cedar and licorice.	Rocche dell'Annunziata	92	75
62,886	italy	serpico is a beautiful but also modern expression of aglianico (the grapes come from ancient vines in the taurasi area) that opens with dark notes of blackberry, crushed stone, chocolate, rum cake, licorice and cola. the mouthfeel is smooth, firm and very rich.	Serpico	92	80
17,479	us	this 100% varietal wine displays aromas of herb, leaf, cocoa, barrel spice and currant. the flavors are light and fresh, showing restraint and a pleasing mouthfeel. the finish lingers.	Sagemoor Vineyards	89	34
35,593	austria	adding cabernet sauvignon and merlot to blaufränkisch and zweigelt gives an intense wine that explodes with black fruits and intense, dark tannins. it is maybe less of a bomb than 2004, but that means it is more sophisticated, ripe but elegant, and finely structured.	Vulcano	91	35
59,575	us	delicious in briary blackberry jam, cherry pie, currant, milk chocolate, black pepper and anise flavors, with a touch of sweet oak, and the finish is totally dry. it's a little too soft in structure, but fine if you're in the mood for zinfandel.	Altitude 2401 Fair Play Farms	87	25
63,757	hungary	this golden-colored wine has enticing aromas of butterscotch, vanilla, caramel and pineapple upside-down cake. in the mouth, there are great flavors of dried apricot, mango, honeycomb and marzipan candies. it has elegant heft on the palate and balanced acidity in the finish. enjoy now or keep in your cellar for another decade or so.	Aszú 5 Puttonyos	95	43
115,137	italy	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.	Boscareto	92	79
92,582	italy	la fornace is a dark, savory expression of cabernet sauvignon that shows aged tertiary aromas of dark spice, cured meat and prune. it feels rich and dense, with a gritty quality to the tannins and long endnotes of bacon, black pepper and leather. drink now.	La Fornace	90	65
48,033	us	seared yellow apple, lemon rinds and pressed white flowers show on the nose of this bottling from the pioneering winery, which was recently acquired by the gallo family. the texture is quite steely with bountiful acidity, but the flavors are a little flat on the sip, where stone fruit and squeezed citrus show.	Logan Sleepy Hollow Vineyard	87	28
80,467	portugal	tasting mature for a 10-year-old tawny, this ripe wine has lost fruit but gained in spirit, wood and acidity. balanced just right, it finishes dry and fragrant.	10-Years-Old Tawny	91	25
61,173	spain	this 50-50 blend of monastrell and cabernet sauvignon is jammy and modest on the bouquet. in the mouth, it's plump but a bit wishy-washy, with generic dark-berry flavors. while it's easygoing on the finish, it falls off a bit and doesn't show much kick. drink now.	El Bon Homme	87	16
23,846	argentina	roasted plum and tomato aromas are spicy but hard and gritty. that also describes the mouthfeel on this narrow, linear malbec with beaming acidity. plum and berry flavors finish direct, with no interference from heavy oak.	Unsung Hero	88	26
72,226	us	a reserve that is also a finesse wine. de ponte's regular 2006 pinot noir packs plenty of juicy power; what's added here is not more jam, but more detail. the wine is layered, the tight berry and currant fruit flavors threaded with mineral and chocolate, spice and coffee. delicious already, it should cellar well for another 8–10 years.	Baldwin Family Reserve	91	70
62,977	argentina	big and woody to start, with heavily toasted blackberry and herbal aromas. the palate is thick, dense and tannic, but it doesn't punish. tastes of cassis, blackberry and herbs before transitioning to dry oak and roasted berry on the finish.	Crios	88	15
127,567	france	bailly lapierre regards this full-bodied rich pinot noir as its signature wine. it has a cool, northern feel to it, but it also has powerful red-berry fruits, a firm structure, a final layer of acidity and a sense this is a wine as well as a crémant.	Pinot Noir Brut	91	24
62,561	greece	this fresh version of a cabernet/merlot blend starts with a minerally, red berry and leather nose, followed by juicy flavors of berries. balanced and approachable, the wine has sturdy tannins and a lingering finish. elegant but ageable.	Geromilos Farms	88	11
107,227	chile	toasty, tarry aromas include dark berry and baked plum notes. this offers ample tartaric acidity to cut the wine's weight, while flavors of berry, tea, mint and herbs lead to a good tasting but hollow feeling finish.	Reserva	86	11
11,399	us	coming from older vine plantings at dionysus, red willow, boushey and bacchus vineyards, cabernet sauvignon (70%) takes the lead, with the rest merlot (20%) and cabernet franc. aromas of graphite, savory herb and red and black fruit are followed by refined fruit flavors. it shows a sophisticated sensibility, bringing a sense of texture and vibrancy, along with a lingering finish.	Sestina	91	65
98,124	us	perfumed aromas of flowers, orange peel and smoked meat are followed by full-bodied fruit and savory flavors. it delivers a lot of enjoyment.	Grand Klasse Lawrence Vineyards	91	50
110,129	italy	made exclusively from sangiovese, cipresso is a lively, brilliant red with pretty fruit intensity and a solid, bright finish.	Piano del Cipresso	89	44
71,308	australia	the 2007 gosling manages to combine savory, spicy complexity with bold fruit, delivering peppery, herbal notes alongside cherry and blueberry flavors. it's mouthfilling, with a creamy texture, yet retains a sense of freshness on the lingering finish. drink now-2020.	The Gosling Roennfeldt Road	92	30
128,194	france	this tavel rosé contains six grape varieties, although 80% of the blend is grenache and cinsault. despite ample weight on the palate, the result is a bit chalky on the finish, with flavors of underripe berries and melon.	La Forcadière	87	19
43,604	us	soft, approachable and easily structured, this sangiovese and montepulciano blend brings forth cherry bubble-gum flavors in a completely gulpable way.	Texican	84	23
89,355	portugal	the blend of fernão pires and arinto produces a rich and creamy wine with pear, ripe apple and apricot flavors. a floral character gives extra piquancy.	Companhia das Lezírias Catapereiro Branco	87	12
95,648	chile	there's no shortage of black-fruit aromas on the nose. however, the palate is bumpy and jagged in feel, with hard-driving black currant, wild blackberry and licorice flavors. a shearing finish with punchy acidity is not congruent with the rest of the wine.	Serie Riberas Gran Reserva Ribera del Tinguiririca	86	17
89,064	italy	made entirely with merlot, this full-bodied red opens with aromas of menthol, dark berries and cooking spices. the firm, savory palate offers ripe plum, juicy black cherry, cinnamon, clove and dark chocolate alongside velvety tannins. drink through 2020.	Casalferro	92	65
3,079	us	this particular bottling belongs with the very best syrahs from this syrah-infatuated state. a broad, toasty, full-bodied and fully realized wine, it has begun to smooth out from the extra years in bottle, but has a long life ahead. berries, cherries, chocolate, coffee, mocha, tobacco, fungus, graphite… the flavors go and go.	Boushey Grande Côte Vineyard	94	36
74,053	italy	you'll find aromas suggesting underbrush, wild berry, tobacco and a whiff of aromatic herb on this. the palate isn't quite as expressive as the nose and is still tightly wound, offering red cherry, cranberry and white pepper alongside a backbone of tense tannins and bright acidity. give it time to unfold. drink 2025–2035.	Boiolo	92	80
104,664	france	a rich blend of dried pear, baked vanilla and shortbread on the nose suggests the richness of this evolving pinot gris. dried pear and apple give more aromatic nuance to this spicy, vanilla-scented white that has an oily and rich palate despite being just off dry. this will shine with food.	Quintessence	91	38
127,009	us	longtime grower lee hudson sources from his prime carneros site for this blend of 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc, unexpected varieties that thrive in his dirt. dark color gives way to supple layers of raspberry and vanilla. a dusting of milk chocolate adds lushness and additional complexity that lingers on the finish.	Old Master Estate Grown	93	125
94,252	chile	neutral on the nose to the point of dull and mute. the palate is more wet than complex, and the flavors of apple, candy and toffee are basic at best. for a half-bottle priced at $25, this is underwhelming and far too simple in all facets.	Hacienda Araucano Kochii Late Harvest	84	25
20,156	italy	here's a delicious dessert wine made with dried moscato grapes. it has an intense fragrance of orange blossoms, citrus and herbs. the dense palate delivers honey, lemon drop, sage and mint. pair this with cream-filled pastries or fruit tarts.	Dindarello	90	22
46,382	us	although it's just a guess, it seems clear that snoqualmie was the loser in 2004, when so many small wineries were helped out by chateau ste. michelle, which provided them grapes during a bad freeze year. snoqualmie probably should not have made a reserve under the circumstances, as this falls well short of recent efforts. it's a light and simple wine, with thin candy cherry flavors and herbal streaks.	Reserve	85	23
111,410	us	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.	River Road Ranch	87	30
5,018	us	co-fermented with 3% viognier, this has a nice peppery lift. the fruit flavors seem less forward, with the herbal components much more front and center. it's made from a clone specific to the cougar hill vineyard, showing cool climate flavors with subtle grace. given a full 24 hours of breathing time, it opens further into a dazzling, rich mix of cherry and cassis that's soaked in an herbal broth.	The Beautiful	94	60
107,170	italy	the high acidity on this wine gives it a sharp and steely personality, especially on first impression. those sharp edges will soften with time but the wine already shows slightly aged aromas of candied berries, tar, tobacco and leather. pair it with creamy pasta dishes.	Da Vinci	88	60
94,842	australia	this fine offering from victoria's mornington peninsula nails pinot noir's elusive texture, gliding across the palate in a silky veil. cherry-berry fruit is framed by hints of brown sugar, coffee and vanilla, but the oak should integrate with a few more months' aging.	Reserve	89	40
113,165	italy	this no-fuss red opens with aromas of red berry and underbrush. the cheerful palate offers strawberry, cinnamon and a hint of orange peel accompanied by smooth tannins. it's made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.	Il Sangiovese	87	21
46,809	us	this first wine of the vintage, a blend of pinot noir, grenache, and valdigue, is largely the result of carbonic maceration, a winemaking technique that creates the freshest, sharpest, zingiest aromas and flavors imaginable. itõs vibrant and juicy, like beaujolais. the gorgeous ripeness of the fruit bodes well for the 2001 vintage. great value.	Nouveau	86	8
3,451	australia	an innovative blend of sauvignon blanc (53%), semillon (37%) and viognier (10%), this medium-bodied wine delivers a mix of figs and melons, underscored by a silky texture. ready to drink.	Scrubby Rise	88	15
96,121	italy	jasmine, tropical fruit and yellow stone fruit aromas lift out of the glass. on the rounded palate, tangy acidity accompanies banana, white peach and citrus flavors.	Perla	87	21
12,718	uruguay	rubbery aromas of plum and wild berry turn toward earthy with airing. this blend from one of uruguay's better wineries is full, hefty and tight, with grabby tannins. blackberry, pepper and burnt flavors finish blackened and slightly bitter. drink through 2018.	Reserva	88	20
61,472	spain	aromas of raw oak, cinnamon, bacon and clove outmuscle fruit on this rough, tannic, scraping 2013. flavors of toast, chocolate and baking spices push blackberry and black-plum fruit towards an oaky, abrasive finish with rocky tannins and accents of chocolate and cinnamon. holding this for another couple of years may or may not soften this fierce but tasty rdd.	Crianza	90	40
7,335	italy	thick as molasses and dark as caramelized brown sugar, the wine oozes out of the bottle releasing concentrated aromas of butterscotch, toffee, honey, licorice, coffee, resin and maple syrup. grapes from the montepulciano area are dried in a ventilated room and the wine ages over 10 years in tiny oak barrels resulting in thick, dark concentration. don't pair it with food: vin santo as good as this deserves to be enjoyed alone, as a so-called “meditation wine.”	Occhio di Pernice	100	210
25,381	us	the color of this wine is deep, with a bright ruby rim. effusive and enticing aromas of spicy cinnamon, toasted oak and red cherry notes meld into black cherry and pomegranate flavors. the balance is just right, the texture is snappy, appetizing and rich at the same time and the finish lingers. best after 2016.	Burt Williams' Morning Dew Ranch	94	78
29,922	italy	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.	Sommarovina Sassella	86	42
47,398	us	this is refreshing and quite dry, with fragrant fruit cocktail aromas and subtle, spare flavors that suggest it would be a great oyster wine. made from 51% sémillon along with other grapes it's interesting enough to serve during dinner as well as an apéritif.	Estate Grown Cuvee Brut	87	36
88,665	france	strawberry hints and floral overtones promise pleasure that arrives on the dry, creamy palate. a lively froth accentuates lightness and ease, while dryness underlines the clean fruit flavors. fine autolysis provides the creamy, textured background, all pervaded by a lively seam of bright acid.	Brut Rosé	91	20
1,710	us	this central coast vineyard has produced an extraordinarily rich, vibrant viognier, brimming with tropical fruit, wildflower, honey and vanilla-spice flavors. it benefits from crisp acidity, and finishes clean and off-dry.	Vista Verde Vineyard	86	25
74,666	spain	stalky, gritty, low-fruit aromas suggest a used grill. this is more heavy than upright, with a mouthfeel that collapses on itself. savory, herbal and brambly tasting, this finishes rough, with herbal berry notes and a hint of chocolate.	Teófilo Reyes	87	30
39,019	italy	here's a bracing sparkler that has aromas of mature citrus fruit and toasted bread crust. the sharp, vigorous palate offers yellow-apple skin, bitter walnut, oak, and a slight confectionary note.	Brut	85	25
78,191	portugal	this is an impressively bold and rich wine for its low alcohol content. the character comes from the ripe, perfumed touriga nacional in the blend giving blackberry and plum flavors. the wine is concentrated and ready to drink.	Quinta do Penedo	90	13
69,241	us	like your zins big and in-your-face? this one's for you, with its richly tannic, concentrated black currant, licorice, cola and pepper flavors and long, spicy finish. it's high in alcohol, but that's rockpile zin for you. drink now with great barbecue.	Rocky Reserve Florence Vineyard	88	35
6,312	us	fenestra's proprietary blend of 59% chardonnay and 41% sémillon, this is a wine perfumed in gardenia that has a bite of oaky barrel amid barely ripe apple that finishes quick.	Semonnay	83	18
48,611	portugal	the wine is ripe, full with red currant and raspberry fruits and some attractive acidity. a blend of touriga nacional and merlot, it is soft, fruity and needs drinking fast before it fades.	Selection	84	8
17,120	spain	this is dark as night, with boysenberry, blackberry, animal fur and smooth oak aromas. for $10, it's bringing all sorts of power and quality, like oak-influenced flavors of vanilla, chocolate, blackberry and cassis. on the finish, this is full and smacks down with tannic grab.	Tinto	88	10
28,153	us	a beautiful cabernet that shows the promise of this lake county appellation. coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. it's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.	Obsidian Ridge Vineyard	90	28
106,407	us	lots of oak and lees on this chardonnay, but is never feels overworked. the acidity is brisk, and fruit flavors are rich in apricots, mangoes, tangerines and pears. don't drink this delicious wine too cold, as it picks up nuances in the glass.	Kyndall's Reserve	91	38
1,650	portugal	lisboa, with its cool climate, lends itself to crisp rosés like this. this lively fruity wine is touched by hints of vanilla and layers of red-fruit flavors. it is light and ready to drink.	Pinta Negra	85	9
52,667	chile	spicy aromas of balsam wood, tobacco and sawmill work well with ripe but reserved red-berry scents. tight, tannic but also fresh as opposed to drying, this cabernet from a cool year delivers a classic set of herbal berry, plum and wood spice flavors. a ripped finish is dry and oaky now, with core fruit resting for the future. drink 2018–2028.	Royale Los Lingues Vineyard	92	26
22,674	us	made at an attractive price point, this wine delivers value and plenty of flavor, from blackberry jam to oak and black pepper. it's sturdy and structured, ready for the table or larger gathering.	Classic Collection	90	24
29,840	us	light herb, green olive and earth aromas are followed by broad cranberry, cherry and orange peel flavors in this wine. it doesn't quite stand up on its own but should fit well at the dinner table.	Wildebeast	88	24
100,977	france	this is a gentle style of sauvignon blanc that has just a touch of herbaceousness to go with the fresh, young grapefruit and crisp apple flavors. it's a wine to drink this summer.	La Petite Perrière	85	13
59,549	austria	summer blossom, honeysuckle, even rose petals appear on the aromatic nose. the slight and slender palate is poised and comes on very light feet. this is a breezy, easy summer wine to be drunk as soon as possible.	Gamlitzberg	87	24
17,136	chile	pushy, forceful aromas of vanilla and oak blend with berry and spice notes. the palate is quietly full bodied, with plum and spice flavors in front of a toasty, dry, nicely oaked finish. for a lively, nervy wine, this is honest and good.	Reserva Especial Sibaris	87	16
106,360	israel	this wine has a bouquet of black currant, cassis and juniper berry. there is a very pleasant balance of fruit and cool herbal flavors, with an emphasis on black cherry, peach, anise and eucalyptus. the sense of coolness that persists on the palate is slightly overshadowed by a flash of brightness on the finish.	Matar Stratus	91	32
30,359	us	subtle hints of vanilla, lavender and spice lend depth to pristine peach and pear flavors in this judiciously balanced chardonnay. it's fleshy and plump in mouthfeel but zesty lime notes keep the finish vibrant. drink now through 2020.	Barrel Fermented	88	16
124,056	france	long barrel aging has given this wine an extra richness. that supplements the ripe red fruits and intense acidity. the result is a wine that is bright with a spice and floral character. the aftertaste brings out crispness and some minerality. ready to drink now.	Les Chênes	92	28
59,424	france	a dense wine, with black fruits that go in one direction, and tannins that go in another. maybe this is because it's young. there is some good, ripe acidity and blackberry flavors, so in six months, this may well integrate.	Mouton Cadet Réserve	85	15
81,500	us	apple, pear and spice aromas lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that manage to remain light on their feet. the finish seems a bit clipped but it still delivers enjoyment.	Centennial Trail	88	17
82,977	us	from an estate vineyard, this wine is robust, full-bodied and viscous, with an underlying hint of petrol and plenty of oak. there's a tartness behind its flavors that gives it a lift as it finds its way to the finish.	Cannon Block	86	26
25,895	us	a quite remarkable mauve-pink in color, this offers faint cherry aromas. it's nearly sweet on the palate, with strawberries and hard red berry candy flavors.	Estate Rosé of	84	20
79,603	italy	a blend of 40% corvina, 40% corvinone, 15% rondinella and 5% oseleta, this opens with aromas of blackberry, raisin and toasted almond. the rich approachable palate offers concentrated black cherry, red plum and a touch of cinnamon alongside supple tannins. enjoy through 2021.	Tasi	89	45
64,816	italy	this cheerful, screw cap valpolicella offers crisp raspberry and cherry flavors over a lean, compact body. it's a lightweight, easy-going wine that would pair with soups or sandwiches.	La Roverina	85	18
111,609	italy	an inky-black appearance and spicy-savory aromas make this the kind of brunello you want to drink on a really cold winter night. tightly concentrated and extracted, with loads of black cherry, leather and tobacco, there are balsam notes too, but delivered in a big, strong fashion. the smooth, silky finish that is not overly dense or intense.	Voliero	90	50
107,975	portugal	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.	Branco Reserva	88	27
68,592	us	labeled dry and tasting very much so, this clean, floral-scented gewürztraminer has a pleasingly dusty aspect; rose petals with a thin veneer of incense. long and complex.	Dry	90	14
56,678	france	tight, young and tangy, this wine will be delicious when it all comes together. the elements are all there, with the quince and pear fruits, intense acidity and the crisp texture that is so refreshing. drink this ageworthy wine from 2017.	Sec	91	15
9,045	chile	this mix of petit verdot and four other red grapes is dark, slightly raisiny and jammy on the nose. in the mouth, it is ripe and ripped, with depth and density along with soft tannins. flavors of prune, baked berry, licorice and peppery spice finish with overt herb, tobacco and chocolaty flavors. drink this powerful, weighty blend through 2018.	VSC	91	40
48,021	us	the reserve gets 90% new french oak, and there is a strong scent of oaky toast, with flavors that follow. plump cherry fruit fills a broad midpalate, finishing with rather hard tannins that show a green edge.	Winemaker's Reserve	87	39
31,325	italy	made entirely from sangiovese, this enjoyable wine opens with violet and mediterranean herb aromas. the straightforward palate doles out wild cherry flavors, an earthy hint of underbrush and soft tannins. enjoy soon.	Titolato Strozzi	87	19
74,256	us	the aromas are super spicy, with cinnamon-glazed sour cherries proving most dominant. on the palate, black cherry and beet juice pair up with black tea, before culminating in a remarkably long and tantalizing spice-driving finish.	Clos Pepe	92	65
24,460	us	you'll want to give this vigorous young cab time in the cellar to come around. it's tannic and closed now, and the blackberry and cherry fruit has a primary fruit jamminess that wants to develop some bottle-aged characteristics. give it until 2017 to begin to come around.	Stagecoach Vineyard	92	65
32,753	italy	a 50-50 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, this offers aromas of cedar, leafy underbrush, scorched earth, ripe dark fruit and ground black pepper. the palate delivers dried black currants, licorice, mint and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. drink through 2019.	Boschivo	90	51
42,067	us	this delicately spritzy riesling carries a whiff of orange rind, along with fresh flavors of lightly sweet tree fruits. tasty on its own, or use it as a mixer for cocktails or punches.	Sext	88	24
4,782	austria	yeasty aromas give way to a ripe, plump palate. varietally typical phenolic richness is kept in check by acidity.	Lamm Reserve	90	41
106,246	us	with 12 months in french oak, the reserve barrel fermented chardonnay is a rounder, more spice-infused chard than macari's regular estate bottled offering. as big as it is, the nose is somewhat muted with soft notes of pear and yellow flowers and the palate shows more as a result of the oak (spice, toast) than the fruit.	Reserve Barrel Fermented	85	23
37,606	italy	this straightforward, simple wine brings together sensations of violet, red cherry and light baking spices. the warm, forward palate finishes on a sweet note of cherry extract. it's made to be enjoyed young and will pair well with hearty pasta dishes.	Campo ai Sassi	87	30
77,787	us	parts of this vineyard date back to the late 1970s. scents of raspberries and cherries bloom from the glass, and the wine gains volume in the mouth. dark fruits take center stage, tightly wound and showing threads of smoke, earth and dark chocolate.	Five Mountain	91	60
82,640	us	produced by three rivers for celebrity winemaker geoff tate, this new insania is a full-on bordeaux blend, with all five red grapes in the mix. it's a powerful wine, with heavy metal flavors of deep black fruits and thick tannins. pair it with a juicy steak or kobe beef burger and rock on.	Insania Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon-Petit Verdot-Malbec-Cabernet Franc	91	35
64,089	us	dark fruit shows on the palate in this exotically spiced and floral blend from several vineyards, including sangiacomo roberts road. soft and medium in weight, it has high-toned acidity underneath the brooding spice and forest floor.	Sascha Marie	91	52
96,430	us	volatile aromas lead into fruit flavors that could be anything. it's more like roussanne than pinot noir.	Le Jour Magique White	84	55
66,694	austria	a pepper- and spice-dominated wine, this has a background of citrus and green plum flavors. the palate is textured and full. the rotenpüllen is made up of glacial deposits.	Rotenpüllen	89	20
16,894	us	this wine is a blend of cabernet franc (60%), merlot (15%), syrah (15%) and petit verdot. aromas of smoke, herbs, cedar and mushroom show some volatility. the cranberry and cherry flavors are light and elegant.	Red Fusion	85	29
16,994	italy	this wine opens with aromas of burned tire rubber and asphalt. the palate offers bitter sensations of grilled sage, oak extract and roasted coffee beans alongside tongue-drying wood tannins.	Vigneto San Marcellino	84	50
100,609	south africa	soft spice and blackberry on the nose are followed by rich, balanced layers of mint, toast and berry. the wine has a minerality that adds a fresh note to the mix. a big wine but not overly complex, this is a cabernet for spicy dishes and beef stew. imported by gbw, llc.	Gamekeeper's Reserve	87	17

37,157

us

golden yellow coloring and deeply perfumed notes of dried flowers and stone fruits are enticing hints to this wine's extended skin contact during fermentation. but the palate of this dry, light-bodied riesling seems demure with pressed apple and pear flavors that struggle to penetrate through.

Skin Ferment

85

27

57,581

italy

this concentrated wine offers aromas of tobacco leaf, stewed plum, grilled porcini mushroom and sage. the lush palate delivers blackberry extract layered with notes of chocolate and vanilla alongside velvety, embracing tannins.

Bosan Riserva

93

115

108,467

us

with each new vintage of cuvée elena, the blend of grapes and vineyards grows more complex, the vines older, the flavors more compact and captivating. a sophisticated and penetrating mix of strawberry and raspberry preserves, highlights of herb and spice, a dash of clean earth, and a lingering and detailed finish make this a wine to savor immediately while tucking away a few bottles to watch it evolve.

Cuvée Elena

94

40

2,981

australia

you've got to like oak to appreciate this wine, which is presently dominated by scents of vanilla, mocha and toasted coconut. it's full bodied and velvety in texture, with hints of black cherry lurking in the background.

Special Select

91

50

108,811

italy

savory spice and candied fruit notes emerge on the bouquet of this sophisticated wine. it shows tight, silky tannins and delivers a brightly intense finish with notes of dried ginger, cedar and licorice.

Rocche dell'Annunziata

92

75

62,886

italy

serpico is a beautiful but also modern expression of aglianico (the grapes come from ancient vines in the taurasi area) that opens with dark notes of blackberry, crushed stone, chocolate, rum cake, licorice and cola. the mouthfeel is smooth, firm and very rich.

Serpico

92

80

17,479

us

this 100% varietal wine displays aromas of herb, leaf, cocoa, barrel spice and currant. the flavors are light and fresh, showing restraint and a pleasing mouthfeel. the finish lingers.

Sagemoor Vineyards

89

34

35,593

austria

adding cabernet sauvignon and merlot to blaufränkisch and zweigelt gives an intense wine that explodes with black fruits and intense, dark tannins. it is maybe less of a bomb than 2004, but that means it is more sophisticated, ripe but elegant, and finely structured.

Vulcano

91

35

59,575

us

delicious in briary blackberry jam, cherry pie, currant, milk chocolate, black pepper and anise flavors, with a touch of sweet oak, and the finish is totally dry. it's a little too soft in structure, but fine if you're in the mood for zinfandel.

Altitude 2401 Fair Play Farms

87

25

63,757

hungary

this golden-colored wine has enticing aromas of butterscotch, vanilla, caramel and pineapple upside-down cake. in the mouth, there are great flavors of dried apricot, mango, honeycomb and marzipan candies. it has elegant heft on the palate and balanced acidity in the finish. enjoy now or keep in your cellar for another decade or so.

Aszú 5 Puttonyos

95

43

115,137

italy

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.

Boscareto

92

79

92,582

italy

la fornace is a dark, savory expression of cabernet sauvignon that shows aged tertiary aromas of dark spice, cured meat and prune. it feels rich and dense, with a gritty quality to the tannins and long endnotes of bacon, black pepper and leather. drink now.

La Fornace

90

65

48,033

us

seared yellow apple, lemon rinds and pressed white flowers show on the nose of this bottling from the pioneering winery, which was recently acquired by the gallo family. the texture is quite steely with bountiful acidity, but the flavors are a little flat on the sip, where stone fruit and squeezed citrus show.

Logan Sleepy Hollow Vineyard

87

28

80,467

portugal

tasting mature for a 10-year-old tawny, this ripe wine has lost fruit but gained in spirit, wood and acidity. balanced just right, it finishes dry and fragrant.

10-Years-Old Tawny

91

25

61,173

spain

this 50-50 blend of monastrell and cabernet sauvignon is jammy and modest on the bouquet. in the mouth, it's plump but a bit wishy-washy, with generic dark-berry flavors. while it's easygoing on the finish, it falls off a bit and doesn't show much kick. drink now.

El Bon Homme

87

16

23,846

argentina

roasted plum and tomato aromas are spicy but hard and gritty. that also describes the mouthfeel on this narrow, linear malbec with beaming acidity. plum and berry flavors finish direct, with no interference from heavy oak.

Unsung Hero

88

26

72,226

us

a reserve that is also a finesse wine. de ponte's regular 2006 pinot noir packs plenty of juicy power; what's added here is not more jam, but more detail. the wine is layered, the tight berry and currant fruit flavors threaded with mineral and chocolate, spice and coffee. delicious already, it should cellar well for another 8–10 years.

Baldwin Family Reserve

91

70

62,977

argentina

big and woody to start, with heavily toasted blackberry and herbal aromas. the palate is thick, dense and tannic, but it doesn't punish. tastes of cassis, blackberry and herbs before transitioning to dry oak and roasted berry on the finish.

Crios

88

15

127,567

france

bailly lapierre regards this full-bodied rich pinot noir as its signature wine. it has a cool, northern feel to it, but it also has powerful red-berry fruits, a firm structure, a final layer of acidity and a sense this is a wine as well as a crémant.

Pinot Noir Brut

91

24

62,561

greece

this fresh version of a cabernet/merlot blend starts with a minerally, red berry and leather nose, followed by juicy flavors of berries. balanced and approachable, the wine has sturdy tannins and a lingering finish. elegant but ageable.

Geromilos Farms

88

11

107,227

chile

toasty, tarry aromas include dark berry and baked plum notes. this offers ample tartaric acidity to cut the wine's weight, while flavors of berry, tea, mint and herbs lead to a good tasting but hollow feeling finish.

Reserva

86

11

11,399

us

coming from older vine plantings at dionysus, red willow, boushey and bacchus vineyards, cabernet sauvignon (70%) takes the lead, with the rest merlot (20%) and cabernet franc. aromas of graphite, savory herb and red and black fruit are followed by refined fruit flavors. it shows a sophisticated sensibility, bringing a sense of texture and vibrancy, along with a lingering finish.

Sestina

91

65

98,124

us

perfumed aromas of flowers, orange peel and smoked meat are followed by full-bodied fruit and savory flavors. it delivers a lot of enjoyment.

Grand Klasse Lawrence Vineyards

91

50

110,129

italy

made exclusively from sangiovese, cipresso is a lively, brilliant red with pretty fruit intensity and a solid, bright finish.

Piano del Cipresso

89

44

71,308

australia

the 2007 gosling manages to combine savory, spicy complexity with bold fruit, delivering peppery, herbal notes alongside cherry and blueberry flavors. it's mouthfilling, with a creamy texture, yet retains a sense of freshness on the lingering finish. drink now-2020.

The Gosling Roennfeldt Road

92

30

128,194

france

this tavel rosé contains six grape varieties, although 80% of the blend is grenache and cinsault. despite ample weight on the palate, the result is a bit chalky on the finish, with flavors of underripe berries and melon.

La Forcadière

87

19

43,604

us

soft, approachable and easily structured, this sangiovese and montepulciano blend brings forth cherry bubble-gum flavors in a completely gulpable way.

Texican

84

23

89,355

portugal

the blend of fernão pires and arinto produces a rich and creamy wine with pear, ripe apple and apricot flavors. a floral character gives extra piquancy.

Companhia das Lezírias Catapereiro Branco

87

12

95,648

chile

there's no shortage of black-fruit aromas on the nose. however, the palate is bumpy and jagged in feel, with hard-driving black currant, wild blackberry and licorice flavors. a shearing finish with punchy acidity is not congruent with the rest of the wine.

Serie Riberas Gran Reserva Ribera del Tinguiririca

86

17

89,064

italy

made entirely with merlot, this full-bodied red opens with aromas of menthol, dark berries and cooking spices. the firm, savory palate offers ripe plum, juicy black cherry, cinnamon, clove and dark chocolate alongside velvety tannins. drink through 2020.

Casalferro

92

65

3,079

us

this particular bottling belongs with the very best syrahs from this syrah-infatuated state. a broad, toasty, full-bodied and fully realized wine, it has begun to smooth out from the extra years in bottle, but has a long life ahead. berries, cherries, chocolate, coffee, mocha, tobacco, fungus, graphite… the flavors go and go.

Boushey Grande Côte Vineyard

94

36

74,053

italy

you'll find aromas suggesting underbrush, wild berry, tobacco and a whiff of aromatic herb on this. the palate isn't quite as expressive as the nose and is still tightly wound, offering red cherry, cranberry and white pepper alongside a backbone of tense tannins and bright acidity. give it time to unfold. drink 2025–2035.

Boiolo

92

80

104,664

france

a rich blend of dried pear, baked vanilla and shortbread on the nose suggests the richness of this evolving pinot gris. dried pear and apple give more aromatic nuance to this spicy, vanilla-scented white that has an oily and rich palate despite being just off dry. this will shine with food.

Quintessence

91

38

127,009

us

longtime grower lee hudson sources from his prime carneros site for this blend of 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc, unexpected varieties that thrive in his dirt. dark color gives way to supple layers of raspberry and vanilla. a dusting of milk chocolate adds lushness and additional complexity that lingers on the finish.

Old Master Estate Grown

93

125

94,252

chile

neutral on the nose to the point of dull and mute. the palate is more wet than complex, and the flavors of apple, candy and toffee are basic at best. for a half-bottle priced at $25, this is underwhelming and far too simple in all facets.

Hacienda Araucano Kochii Late Harvest

84

25

20,156

italy

here's a delicious dessert wine made with dried moscato grapes. it has an intense fragrance of orange blossoms, citrus and herbs. the dense palate delivers honey, lemon drop, sage and mint. pair this with cream-filled pastries or fruit tarts.

Dindarello

90

22

46,382

us

although it's just a guess, it seems clear that snoqualmie was the loser in 2004, when so many small wineries were helped out by chateau ste. michelle, which provided them grapes during a bad freeze year. snoqualmie probably should not have made a reserve under the circumstances, as this falls well short of recent efforts. it's a light and simple wine, with thin candy cherry flavors and herbal streaks.

Reserve

85

23

111,410

us

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.

River Road Ranch

87

30

5,018

us

co-fermented with 3% viognier, this has a nice peppery lift. the fruit flavors seem less forward, with the herbal components much more front and center. it's made from a clone specific to the cougar hill vineyard, showing cool climate flavors with subtle grace. given a full 24 hours of breathing time, it opens further into a dazzling, rich mix of cherry and cassis that's soaked in an herbal broth.

The Beautiful

94

60

107,170

italy

the high acidity on this wine gives it a sharp and steely personality, especially on first impression. those sharp edges will soften with time but the wine already shows slightly aged aromas of candied berries, tar, tobacco and leather. pair it with creamy pasta dishes.

Da Vinci

88

60

94,842

australia

this fine offering from victoria's mornington peninsula nails pinot noir's elusive texture, gliding across the palate in a silky veil. cherry-berry fruit is framed by hints of brown sugar, coffee and vanilla, but the oak should integrate with a few more months' aging.

Reserve

89

40

113,165

italy

this no-fuss red opens with aromas of red berry and underbrush. the cheerful palate offers strawberry, cinnamon and a hint of orange peel accompanied by smooth tannins. it's made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.

Il Sangiovese

87

21

46,809

us

this first wine of the vintage, a blend of pinot noir, grenache, and valdigue, is largely the result of carbonic maceration, a winemaking technique that creates the freshest, sharpest, zingiest aromas and flavors imaginable. itõs vibrant and juicy, like beaujolais. the gorgeous ripeness of the fruit bodes well for the 2001 vintage. great value.

Nouveau

86

8

3,451

australia

an innovative blend of sauvignon blanc (53%), semillon (37%) and viognier (10%), this medium-bodied wine delivers a mix of figs and melons, underscored by a silky texture. ready to drink.

Scrubby Rise

88

15

96,121

italy

jasmine, tropical fruit and yellow stone fruit aromas lift out of the glass. on the rounded palate, tangy acidity accompanies banana, white peach and citrus flavors.

Perla

87

21

12,718

uruguay

rubbery aromas of plum and wild berry turn toward earthy with airing. this blend from one of uruguay's better wineries is full, hefty and tight, with grabby tannins. blackberry, pepper and burnt flavors finish blackened and slightly bitter. drink through 2018.

Reserva

88

20

61,472

spain

aromas of raw oak, cinnamon, bacon and clove outmuscle fruit on this rough, tannic, scraping 2013. flavors of toast, chocolate and baking spices push blackberry and black-plum fruit towards an oaky, abrasive finish with rocky tannins and accents of chocolate and cinnamon. holding this for another couple of years may or may not soften this fierce but tasty rdd.

Crianza

90

40

7,335

italy

thick as molasses and dark as caramelized brown sugar, the wine oozes out of the bottle releasing concentrated aromas of butterscotch, toffee, honey, licorice, coffee, resin and maple syrup. grapes from the montepulciano area are dried in a ventilated room and the wine ages over 10 years in tiny oak barrels resulting in thick, dark concentration. don't pair it with food: vin santo as good as this deserves to be enjoyed alone, as a so-called “meditation wine.”

Occhio di Pernice

100

210

25,381

us

the color of this wine is deep, with a bright ruby rim. effusive and enticing aromas of spicy cinnamon, toasted oak and red cherry notes meld into black cherry and pomegranate flavors. the balance is just right, the texture is snappy, appetizing and rich at the same time and the finish lingers. best after 2016.

Burt Williams' Morning Dew Ranch

94

78

29,922

italy

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.

Sommarovina Sassella

86

42

47,398

us

this is refreshing and quite dry, with fragrant fruit cocktail aromas and subtle, spare flavors that suggest it would be a great oyster wine. made from 51% sémillon along with other grapes it's interesting enough to serve during dinner as well as an apéritif.

Estate Grown Cuvee Brut

87

36

88,665

france

strawberry hints and floral overtones promise pleasure that arrives on the dry, creamy palate. a lively froth accentuates lightness and ease, while dryness underlines the clean fruit flavors. fine autolysis provides the creamy, textured background, all pervaded by a lively seam of bright acid.

Brut Rosé

91

20

1,710

us

this central coast vineyard has produced an extraordinarily rich, vibrant viognier, brimming with tropical fruit, wildflower, honey and vanilla-spice flavors. it benefits from crisp acidity, and finishes clean and off-dry.

Vista Verde Vineyard

86

25

74,666

spain

stalky, gritty, low-fruit aromas suggest a used grill. this is more heavy than upright, with a mouthfeel that collapses on itself. savory, herbal and brambly tasting, this finishes rough, with herbal berry notes and a hint of chocolate.

Teófilo Reyes

87

30

39,019

italy

here's a bracing sparkler that has aromas of mature citrus fruit and toasted bread crust. the sharp, vigorous palate offers yellow-apple skin, bitter walnut, oak, and a slight confectionary note.

Brut

85

25

78,191

portugal

this is an impressively bold and rich wine for its low alcohol content. the character comes from the ripe, perfumed touriga nacional in the blend giving blackberry and plum flavors. the wine is concentrated and ready to drink.

Quinta do Penedo

90

13

69,241

us

like your zins big and in-your-face? this one's for you, with its richly tannic, concentrated black currant, licorice, cola and pepper flavors and long, spicy finish. it's high in alcohol, but that's rockpile zin for you. drink now with great barbecue.

Rocky Reserve Florence Vineyard

88

35

6,312

us

fenestra's proprietary blend of 59% chardonnay and 41% sémillon, this is a wine perfumed in gardenia that has a bite of oaky barrel amid barely ripe apple that finishes quick.

Semonnay

83

18

48,611

portugal

the wine is ripe, full with red currant and raspberry fruits and some attractive acidity. a blend of touriga nacional and merlot, it is soft, fruity and needs drinking fast before it fades.

Selection

84

8

17,120

spain

this is dark as night, with boysenberry, blackberry, animal fur and smooth oak aromas. for $10, it's bringing all sorts of power and quality, like oak-influenced flavors of vanilla, chocolate, blackberry and cassis. on the finish, this is full and smacks down with tannic grab.

Tinto

88

10

28,153

us

a beautiful cabernet that shows the promise of this lake county appellation. coming off the very good 2006, it shows the same dry balance, but is richer, offering graceful flavors of black currants, anise and herbs. it's quite a tannic wine that needs a rich steak to balance it.

Obsidian Ridge Vineyard

90

28

106,407

us

lots of oak and lees on this chardonnay, but is never feels overworked. the acidity is brisk, and fruit flavors are rich in apricots, mangoes, tangerines and pears. don't drink this delicious wine too cold, as it picks up nuances in the glass.

Kyndall's Reserve

91

38

1,650

portugal

lisboa, with its cool climate, lends itself to crisp rosés like this. this lively fruity wine is touched by hints of vanilla and layers of red-fruit flavors. it is light and ready to drink.

Pinta Negra

85

9

52,667

chile

spicy aromas of balsam wood, tobacco and sawmill work well with ripe but reserved red-berry scents. tight, tannic but also fresh as opposed to drying, this cabernet from a cool year delivers a classic set of herbal berry, plum and wood spice flavors. a ripped finish is dry and oaky now, with core fruit resting for the future. drink 2018–2028.

Royale Los Lingues Vineyard

92

26

22,674

us

made at an attractive price point, this wine delivers value and plenty of flavor, from blackberry jam to oak and black pepper. it's sturdy and structured, ready for the table or larger gathering.

Classic Collection

90

24

29,840

us

light herb, green olive and earth aromas are followed by broad cranberry, cherry and orange peel flavors in this wine. it doesn't quite stand up on its own but should fit well at the dinner table.

Wildebeast

88

24

100,977

france

this is a gentle style of sauvignon blanc that has just a touch of herbaceousness to go with the fresh, young grapefruit and crisp apple flavors. it's a wine to drink this summer.

La Petite Perrière

85

13

59,549

austria

summer blossom, honeysuckle, even rose petals appear on the aromatic nose. the slight and slender palate is poised and comes on very light feet. this is a breezy, easy summer wine to be drunk as soon as possible.

Gamlitzberg

87

24

17,136

chile

pushy, forceful aromas of vanilla and oak blend with berry and spice notes. the palate is quietly full bodied, with plum and spice flavors in front of a toasty, dry, nicely oaked finish. for a lively, nervy wine, this is honest and good.

Reserva Especial Sibaris

87

16

106,360

israel

this wine has a bouquet of black currant, cassis and juniper berry. there is a very pleasant balance of fruit and cool herbal flavors, with an emphasis on black cherry, peach, anise and eucalyptus. the sense of coolness that persists on the palate is slightly overshadowed by a flash of brightness on the finish.

Matar Stratus

91

32

30,359

us

subtle hints of vanilla, lavender and spice lend depth to pristine peach and pear flavors in this judiciously balanced chardonnay. it's fleshy and plump in mouthfeel but zesty lime notes keep the finish vibrant. drink now through 2020.

Barrel Fermented

88

16

124,056

france

long barrel aging has given this wine an extra richness. that supplements the ripe red fruits and intense acidity. the result is a wine that is bright with a spice and floral character. the aftertaste brings out crispness and some minerality. ready to drink now.

Les Chênes

92

28

59,424

france

a dense wine, with black fruits that go in one direction, and tannins that go in another. maybe this is because it's young. there is some good, ripe acidity and blackberry flavors, so in six months, this may well integrate.

Mouton Cadet Réserve

85

15

81,500

us

apple, pear and spice aromas lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that manage to remain light on their feet. the finish seems a bit clipped but it still delivers enjoyment.

Centennial Trail

88

17

82,977

us

from an estate vineyard, this wine is robust, full-bodied and viscous, with an underlying hint of petrol and plenty of oak. there's a tartness behind its flavors that gives it a lift as it finds its way to the finish.

Cannon Block

86

26

25,895

us

a quite remarkable mauve-pink in color, this offers faint cherry aromas. it's nearly sweet on the palate, with strawberries and hard red berry candy flavors.

Estate Rosé of

84

20

79,603

italy

a blend of 40% corvina, 40% corvinone, 15% rondinella and 5% oseleta, this opens with aromas of blackberry, raisin and toasted almond. the rich approachable palate offers concentrated black cherry, red plum and a touch of cinnamon alongside supple tannins. enjoy through 2021.

Tasi

89

45

64,816

italy

this cheerful, screw cap valpolicella offers crisp raspberry and cherry flavors over a lean, compact body. it's a lightweight, easy-going wine that would pair with soups or sandwiches.

La Roverina

85

18

111,609

italy

an inky-black appearance and spicy-savory aromas make this the kind of brunello you want to drink on a really cold winter night. tightly concentrated and extracted, with loads of black cherry, leather and tobacco, there are balsam notes too, but delivered in a big, strong fashion. the smooth, silky finish that is not overly dense or intense.

Voliero

90

50

107,975

portugal

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.

Branco Reserva

88

27

68,592

us

labeled dry and tasting very much so, this clean, floral-scented gewürztraminer has a pleasingly dusty aspect; rose petals with a thin veneer of incense. long and complex.

Dry

90

14

56,678

france

tight, young and tangy, this wine will be delicious when it all comes together. the elements are all there, with the quince and pear fruits, intense acidity and the crisp texture that is so refreshing. drink this ageworthy wine from 2017.

Sec

91

15

9,045

chile

this mix of petit verdot and four other red grapes is dark, slightly raisiny and jammy on the nose. in the mouth, it is ripe and ripped, with depth and density along with soft tannins. flavors of prune, baked berry, licorice and peppery spice finish with overt herb, tobacco and chocolaty flavors. drink this powerful, weighty blend through 2018.

VSC

91

40

48,021

us

the reserve gets 90% new french oak, and there is a strong scent of oaky toast, with flavors that follow. plump cherry fruit fills a broad midpalate, finishing with rather hard tannins that show a green edge.

Winemaker's Reserve

87

39

31,325

italy

made entirely from sangiovese, this enjoyable wine opens with violet and mediterranean herb aromas. the straightforward palate doles out wild cherry flavors, an earthy hint of underbrush and soft tannins. enjoy soon.

Titolato Strozzi

87

19

74,256

us

the aromas are super spicy, with cinnamon-glazed sour cherries proving most dominant. on the palate, black cherry and beet juice pair up with black tea, before culminating in a remarkably long and tantalizing spice-driving finish.

Clos Pepe

92

65

24,460

us

you'll want to give this vigorous young cab time in the cellar to come around. it's tannic and closed now, and the blackberry and cherry fruit has a primary fruit jamminess that wants to develop some bottle-aged characteristics. give it until 2017 to begin to come around.

Stagecoach Vineyard

92

65

32,753

italy

a 50-50 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, this offers aromas of cedar, leafy underbrush, scorched earth, ripe dark fruit and ground black pepper. the palate delivers dried black currants, licorice, mint and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. drink through 2019.

Boschivo

90

51

42,067

us

this delicately spritzy riesling carries a whiff of orange rind, along with fresh flavors of lightly sweet tree fruits. tasty on its own, or use it as a mixer for cocktails or punches.

Sext

88

24

4,782

austria

yeasty aromas give way to a ripe, plump palate. varietally typical phenolic richness is kept in check by acidity.

Lamm Reserve

90

41

106,246

us

with 12 months in french oak, the reserve barrel fermented chardonnay is a rounder, more spice-infused chard than macari's regular estate bottled offering. as big as it is, the nose is somewhat muted with soft notes of pear and yellow flowers and the palate shows more as a result of the oak (spice, toast) than the fruit.

Reserve Barrel Fermented

85

23

37,606

italy

this straightforward, simple wine brings together sensations of violet, red cherry and light baking spices. the warm, forward palate finishes on a sweet note of cherry extract. it's made to be enjoyed young and will pair well with hearty pasta dishes.

Campo ai Sassi

87

30

77,787

us

parts of this vineyard date back to the late 1970s. scents of raspberries and cherries bloom from the glass, and the wine gains volume in the mouth. dark fruits take center stage, tightly wound and showing threads of smoke, earth and dark chocolate.

Five Mountain

91

60

82,640

us

produced by three rivers for celebrity winemaker geoff tate, this new insania is a full-on bordeaux blend, with all five red grapes in the mix. it's a powerful wine, with heavy metal flavors of deep black fruits and thick tannins. pair it with a juicy steak or kobe beef burger and rock on.

Insania Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon-Petit Verdot-Malbec-Cabernet Franc

91

35

64,089

us

dark fruit shows on the palate in this exotically spiced and floral blend from several vineyards, including sangiacomo roberts road. soft and medium in weight, it has high-toned acidity underneath the brooding spice and forest floor.

Sascha Marie

91

52

96,430

us

volatile aromas lead into fruit flavors that could be anything. it's more like roussanne than pinot noir.

Le Jour Magique White

84

55

66,694

austria

a pepper- and spice-dominated wine, this has a background of citrus and green plum flavors. the palate is textured and full. the rotenpüllen is made up of glacial deposits.

Rotenpüllen

89

20

16,894

us

this wine is a blend of cabernet franc (60%), merlot (15%), syrah (15%) and petit verdot. aromas of smoke, herbs, cedar and mushroom show some volatility. the cranberry and cherry flavors are light and elegant.

Red Fusion

85

29

16,994

italy

this wine opens with aromas of burned tire rubber and asphalt. the palate offers bitter sensations of grilled sage, oak extract and roasted coffee beans alongside tongue-drying wood tannins.

Vigneto San Marcellino

84

50

100,609

south africa

soft spice and blackberry on the nose are followed by rich, balanced layers of mint, toast and berry. the wine has a minerality that adds a fresh note to the mix. a big wine but not overly complex, this is a cabernet for spicy dishes and beef stew. imported by gbw, llc.

Gamekeeper's Reserve

87

17