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Jim Barry Lodge Hill Shiraz 2008
Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
90
This wine has deep, dark red/black hues, lifted aromas of mulberry, raspberry, coffee and kirsch. The bramble, chocolate, methol and rosemary fl avours that fi ll the mouth are present in abundance, with delicate, sensual and ripe tannins playing a structural role. This wine is ideally suited to good food, good friends and good conversation.
Argyle Reserve Pinot Noir 2005
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
91
This Pinot Noir has a seductively rich, super dark ruby-violet color. Aromas leap out of the glass with black cherry, black cherry leather and cedar, along with a ripping portion of cinnamon spice. The wine finishes with a hint of violet flower patch. Use of new oak was delicate, so the aromas are authentic Pinot Noir.
Cambria Katherine's Vineyard Chardonnay 1997
Central Coast, California
White Wine
87
The 1997 Katherines Vineyard Chardonnay is a rich, mouthfilling wine, with lush pineapple, mango and pear aromas, along with butter and caramel notes. This wine is well-structured, with a backbone of crisp acid, and a long, lasting finish.
Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay 2015
Willamette Valley, Oregon
White Wine
92
The art of blending is a hallmark of the Domaine Serene winemaking program and one of the most important steps in making wines of distinct and unique character. Sourcing only the finest Dijon clone grapes from the winery's premier Chardonnay vineyards in the Dundee Hills, the Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay is meticulously blended for balance, personality and consistently superior quality from vintage to vintage.
Barnard Griffin Chardonnay 2012
Columbia Valley, Washington
White Wine
90
A burst of ripe fruit flavors greet the palate: infused orange and apple with hints of ginger, honey and wet stone. Rich vanilla aromatics complete this delicious, crisp Chardonnay. A perfect wine for get-togethers with friends.
Black Sheep Finds Genuine Risk red blend 2016
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
92
Each vintage the blend of Genuine Risk changes with the quality of the grapes in the field and conditions of the growing season. 2016 was an ideal vintage for Bordeaux varieties in the Central Coast: an early bud break, no frost damage during set and a moderately warm summer with limited days of excessive heat. Crop levels were normal after a very small 2015 vintage and harvest began in mid-September. The 2016 blend is comprised of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Syrah. The introduction of Syrah into the blend has added round dark fruit and helps soften the wine and make it approachable immediately. The Cabernet Franc comes from a single vineyard in the San Benito AVA in Monterey County. The Syrah comes from the cool Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara County. While this is not a typical "Bordeaux" blend these two varieties complement each other quite well.
Felton Road Cornish Point Pinot Noir 2015
Central Otago, New Zealand
Red Wine
91
Brambly forest floor, deep Eastern spice box and dark concentrated cherry aromas. The fruit intensity and plump richness that sings Cornish Point ultimately gives way to a pleasant and soothing rustic charm. An alluring and irresistible mouthfeel with a savoury intensity shining through the finish. Textbook Cornish Point; mouth-coating, silky, sexy and spicy!
K Vintners Motor City Kitty Syrah 2010
Washington
Red Wine
91
Tar, black cherry and tobacco with a distinct toasted fennel seed notes. Motor City lives on and on.
Ceuso Scurati Nero d'Avola 2013
Sicily, Italy
Red Wine
89
Ruby red with purple highlights. Fruit nose of blackberries, blueberries and cherries with hints of licorice and damp earth. Balanced with good tannins and a long finish.
Jean Lallement et Fils Rose
Champagne, France
Sparkling & Champagne
90
The Lallement Rose Brut is all Pinot Noir from one vintage, despite being labeled N.V. The fruit is from Verzenay, and the wine includes 9% still Pinot Noir vinified and aged by David Pehu.
Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
91
Captivating aromas of anise, expresso, dried herbs and orange peel introduce the 2011 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon. Sumptuous and savory blackberry, dark cherry and fig are revealed during decanting, with notes of bittersweet cocoa, black olive and nutmeg adding intrigue and complexity. The vintage exhibits composure, with both depth of flavor and ripe, refined tannins.
Dominus Estate (3 Liter Bottle) 2014
Yountville, Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
97
Dominus Estate wines are made with an objective of purity, balance and complexity. Minimal intervention and restraint throughout the process of grape berry selection, fermentation and aging preserve the character of the fruit. The resulting wines convey the very personality of the vineyard.
Chateau Lafleur 1999
Pomerol, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
92
The chateaux of Pomerol were never officially classified but Chateau Lafleur is one of the top quality properties in Pomerol. It is perhaps the only chateau in Pomerol that can rival Chateau Petrus.
Chateau Palmer Alter Ego de Palmer 2005
Margaux, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
90
The dynamic bouquet combines power and complexity. The fruit is ripe and varied: blackcurrants, sour cherries, figs, plums and dates. Spices (vanilla, white pepper, and cinnamon) melt with roasted notes (mocha and cocoa), a few plants (tobacco and cedar) and delicate musky touches.
Domaine Arlaud Gevrey Chambertin Premier Cru Aux Combottes 2014
Gevrey-Chambertin, Cote de Nuits, Cote d'Or, Burgundy, France
Red Wine
93
A well-placed premier cru, surrounded on three sides by grand crus: Clos de la Roche in Morey-Saint-Denis and Latricieres and Mazoyeres-Chambertin in Gevrey. The name 'Combottes' means "small valley". Mostly planted in 1964 and 1999, with a small section of vines planted in 1925.
Chateau Fontenil 2000
Fronsac, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
91
Gorgeous. Blackberry, with toasted oak and berry. Medium-bodied, with lovely, silky tannins and a long, ripe fruit and berry aftertaste. From the famous global wine consultant, Michel Rolland. Best after 2007 2,500 cases produced.
King Estate Reserve Pinot Gris 2000
Willamette Valley, Oregon
White Wine
90
Exhibits tropical fruit aromas consisting of guava and papaya, accented by tangerine and mandarin, and a waif of spring flowers. A smooth and inviting mouthfeel, the ripe tropical fruit flavors include a hint of hazelnut and spice.
Bouchard Pere & Fils Nuits-St-Georges 2014
Nuits-St-Georges, Cote de Nuits, Cote d'Or, Burgundy, France
Red Wine
90
Intense aromas of berry fruit and spice. Rich, tannic and well structured, this wine develops additional roundness after several years in bottle. Good aging potential.
Brampton Unoaked Chardonnay 2007
South Africa
White Wine
88
"Elegant fruit and minerals on the nose start this affordable wine from Brampton. Balanced, refreshing but substantial, it offers lovely Chardonnay fruit with a layered character. Overall, a wine to impress." - Wine Enthusiast
Jose Maria Da Fonseca Douro 2003
Portugal
Red Wine
90
Established in 1999, DOMINI represents a joint venture between Domingos Soares Franco of Jose Maria da Fonseca and Cristiano van Zeller, one of Portugal's famed "Douro Boys" (a small group of the Douro's top port and table wine producers). Together, these partners have set out on a mission to showcase the full potential of the Douro's grapes, and the excellence this region's dry red table wines are capable of attaining.
Chateau Destieux 2003
St. Emilion, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
92
Blend: 66% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon
Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande 1998
Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
93
The Petit Verdot produced an exceptional cuvée. A fine, elegant wine of great class.
Bergstrom de Lancellotti Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010
Oregon
Red Wine
91
An incredibly youthful wine packed with promise. When first poured, this deep ruby and magenta wine is both enticingly sweet and savory, with aromas of black raspberry, cassis, star anise, cinnamon, sweet basil and black olive bursting from the glass. Such a rich garrigue-laden aromatic profile makes me think this wine could have hypothetically been grown on the steep Northern Rhone hillsides of Cornas.
Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
90
On the nose this wine exhibits blackberry jam, vanilla, andallspice leap out of the glass yet gracefully yield to notes of dried plum, coee bean, and perfume with some patience. Deceptively soft up front, with fresh strawberry and raspberry immediately apparent. These instantly give way though to density and concentration of flavor as the tannins and acidity come into focus. The finish is elegant and balanced with the aforementioned ripe flavors and textures of the vintage comingled with bright acid, cocoa, crème de menthe, and chalky minerality.
Hess Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon (375ML half-bottle) 2015
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
90
Full bodied, with classic Cabernet red fruit flavors set off by aromas and flavors of currant and blackberry, our Allomi Cabernet is noted for moderate, well-integrated tannins showing a round, plush mouthfeel. Distinct notes of vanilla and oak spice from aging in American oak add to the personality of the wine, surely one of our most popular Napa offerings.
Bodega Garzon Uruguay Reserve Tannat 2013
Uruguay
Red Wine
89
This elegant and powerful wine opens with beautiful aromas of raspberry and red cherry followed by delicious flavors of black plum, rhubarb and tobacco mixed with dark chocolate and white pepper. It has a finish that presents a brilliant tension between silky tannins and supple fruit.
Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
92
When you talk about vintages at Montelena, they are often categorized as "hot" or "cool." Then occasionally there are years like 2007 which, because of their ideal conditions, earn the tag of "Goldilocks" because everything was just right. Warm spring conditions led to earlier than normal bud break, while the moderate temperatures in summer and early fall further extended the growing season, resulting in long, slow ripening with fantastic flavor development and near-perfect juice chemistries.
Jaffurs Viognier 2015
Santa Barbara, Central Coast, California
White Wine
91
This Viognier has our classic full mouth feel and a clean, lingering finish. Sourced from the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard, we fermented and aged our 2015 Viognier in a combination of stainless steel and neutral French oak. Vibrant aromas of grapefruit and guava abound on the nose, with subtle notes of anise and honeysuckle. Tropical fruits persist on the palate, mingled with stone fruits and delicate minerality. Pair with fresh seafood: think mahi-mahi with tropical fruit salsa or seared scallops.
Henriot Cuvee des Enchanteleurs 1998
Champagne, France
Sparkling & Champagne
94
Pale gold with fine effervescence and an attractive cordon of mousse. Discreet notes of candied citrus, hazelnut and pastries enhance a bouquet dominated by honey. The nose is ripe, very fine, a sign of attractive aromatic evolution. This mature, well balanced, elegant wine has a lively, frank attack typical of the great vintages. Roasted, toasty aromas, butter and pastry together with fragrances of citrus and wild peach create rich, aromatic complexity leading on to flavors of honey and delicate exotic notes. The length is superbwith aromas of pastries, fine touches of hazelnut and honey to complete this magnificent "cuvee."
Keenan Cabernet Franc 2004
Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
92
This wine was produced exclusively from grapes grown on the Keenan Estate located in Napa Valley's Spring Mountain District. The fruit was hand picked then, after de-stemming, the must was inoculated with Montrachet yeast and fermented in a stainless steel tank.
La Follette Sangiacomo Chardonnay 2015
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California
White Wine
93
A bouquet of white peach, biscuit and wet stone immediately entices. With time in the glass, oak spice and a roasted chestnut richness emerge. A vanilla cream entry leads to a well-integrated acidity that supports the lifted fruit flavors while complementing the wine’s mineral component. The finish boasts a pleasing note of mandarin zest. This is a Chardonnay of finesse with finely balanced weight and structure.
Chateau de Saint Cosme Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2009
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France
Red Wine
92
My Chateauneuf 2009 is a sort of 2007 with less exuberance, less outspoken. 2009 is a vintage of powerful and meaty wines. It was necesary more than ever to work with full clusters, have nice and well-ripe mourvèdre, age without any racking to preserve the heart of the fruit. It has notes of Christmas cake, gingerbread, fennel, garrigue and rosemary.
Chateau Brane-Cantenac 2007
Margaux, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
90
A very complex nose dominated by red fruit aromas (raspberry, black berry) expressing great maturity. Notes of vanilla et spices (white pepper). Showing a beautiful bouquet when aerated. A good solid 'attack' and fullness in the mouth. Gives the impression of a round and powerful wine. Finesse and elegance of the tannins are very typical of Brane. The mid-palate is dense, while the finish is long, with rich back-whiffs of vivid fruit.
Domaine Tollot-Beaut Aloxe-Corton Les Vercots Premier Cru 2016
Aloxe-Corton, Cote de Beaune, Cote d'Or, Burgundy, France
Red Wine
92
Tollot-Beaut’s Les Vercots 1er Cru is rustic and robust with aromas and flavors of red cherries, spice, and earth with substantial weight and ripe tannins. It is aged for 18 months in 50% new Burgundian pièce. Red Burgundy might be the world’s most flexible food wine. The wine’s high acidity, medium body, medium alcohol, and low tannins make it very food-friendly. Red Burgundy, with its earthy and sometimes gamey character, is a classic partner to roasted game birds, grilled duck breast, and dishes that feature mushrooms, black truffles, or are rich in umami.
Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Shiraz/Grenache 2010
Australia
Red Wine
90
Brick red in color with youthful crimson hues. Perfumed notes of dark fruits, licorice and black olive combine beautifully with the characters of older French oak spice and char Palate is Richly rewarding, the classic flavors of the Shiraz and Grenache complement each other perfectly, the gentle tannins, earthiness and older French oak generously contributing to its long persistent palate finish.
L'Ecole 41 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Apogee 2012
Walla Walla Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington
Red Wine
91
This sophisticated and complex wine has brooding aromas of black cherry, dried cassis, cola nut, and currant. Flavors of tobacco leaf, dense dark fruit and sage are wrapped in gentle gripping tannins on a persistent leafy finish.
Kaesler Stonehorse Shiraz 2006
Barossa Valley, Barossa, South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
90
The "Stonehorse" wines are vinified to make styles that highlight the fruit characteristics without too much influence from new oak.
Castiglion del Bosco Rosso di Montalcino 2008
Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
88
The color is ruby red, nose is delicate and full of typical varietal aromas. In the mouth it is pleasant and harmonious. Its unique versatility makes it suitable for everyday drinking.
Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2008
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California
White Wine
93
Our 2008 Chardonnay reveals the purest expression of Freestone terroir that we have captured with this varietal to date. The first dip of the nose into the glass reveals aromas of orange blossom, lemongrass, savory herbs and white flowers. The subtle oak nuances lend an appealing sweetness to the delicate bouquet. Lean and focused, with richness and depth on the palate, this wine has a lot of verve. It is dense yet also has great intensity with a complex mineral-like finish and mouthwatering acidity; a lovely balance between power and finesse.
Blandy's Bual Madeira 1920
Portugal
Collectible
97
Golden color with golden green tinges at the rim. Intense, exuberant and concentrated bouquet of dried fruits with an aroma of licorice. Notes of wood, toffee and vanilla. Luxurious long finish of dried fruits, spices and tobacco.
Lake Breeze Bernoota Shiraz/Cabernet 2006
Barossa Valley, Barossa, South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
90
Lake Breezes Bernoota is a lovely example of a classic Aussie blend. The nose is spicy and lifted on opening with notes of savory cedar touched up with light mint underpinning flowing into red cassis and richer blackberry fruit aromatically. The palate is medium fuller bodied and sleek, with a streak of lively acidity giving brightness to the fruit flavors that mirror the nose. Finer tuned tannins help firm up the long finish with a savory cast that works nicely with the vibrant fruit.
DAOU Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
92
Rich deep dark berry color with creamy mocha-espresso flavors is the first impression of this wine. The tannins are well integrated with the fruit and create a long finish that keeps going. It's full bodied with a saturated finish while accompanied by bright acidity and infused by black current and cooked blueberry fruit. Balanced and intense, it showcases what Bordeaux varieties can perform when managed correctly.
Dutton-Goldfield Freestone Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
Russian River, Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
90
The weather in 2014 was so perfect, even Dutton-Goldfield's usually fog-shrouded vineyard in Freestone saw plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. Their cooler coastal sites love warm summers and temperate fall weather, and reward them with generous, rich, elegant fruit.
Eola Hills Chardonnay 2000
Willamette Valley, Oregon
White Wine
88
Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Wine Values of 2002
Alta Vista Premium Malbec 2009
Argentina
Red Wine
90
Together with its ruby-red color, this wine has an aroma of very ripe red fruits and spices. On the palate, it is velvety and rounded, with great volume and a lingering presence.
Gabbiano Bellezza Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2012
Chianti Classico, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
91
A deep ruby red color, enticing aromas of red berry and citrus fruits contrasted by spicy vanilla toast notes: a complex and well balanced palate. The silky tannins and elegant style make this a remarkable expression of single vineyard Sangiovese.
Langmeil Orphan Bank Shiraz 2013
Barossa Valley, Barossa, South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
93
Medium depth crimson with purple hues. A rich aroma of red and blue fruits, violets and cedar, entwine with hints of sage, chocolate and white pepper spice. Juicy raspberry and Satsuma plum fills the mouth, with oak sweetness adding to the mouthfeel. Well balanced with briary and white pepper spice and textured, fine tannin. May be cellared between 2015 – 2030.
Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva 1999
Chianti Classico, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
90
Color: Medium ruby.
Araujo Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Calistoga, Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
90
The tiny berries characteristic of the vintage here gave us an intense wine of remarkable depth and intensity, with loads of full, round tannins and mouth-coating flavor, but with delicacy in the dusty potpourri nose and the long graphite finish. The wine is earth-driven, rich and vibrant
L'Ecole 41 Columbia Valley Merlot 2004
Columbia Valley, Washington
Red Wine
90
Rich and spicy, with aromatic aromas of nutmeg, clove and cinnamon, this Merlot shows ripe black plum, blackberry and dark flavors encased in a peppery, chocolate, black cherry finish.
Kinsella Estates Heirloom Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
96
While it was the third consecutive year marked by limited rainfall, the 2014 vintage offered a perfectly temperate growing season characterized by long, moderate days and cool, clear nights. The year began with warm spring conditions that gave way to an early bud break and the consistent, dry weather afforded an optimal fruit set of small berries with incredible concentration. Crop yields were down a bit from 2013, but the quality was magnificent. It was a textbook growing season, every winemaker’s dream.
Bodegas Luzon Verde 2009
Jumilla, Spain
Red Wine
88
The color is deep cherry with a violet rim.
Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Merlot 2006
Chile
Red Wine
90
: Bright and deep red ruby with a purple robe.
Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico RS 2015
Chianti Classico, Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
90
Intense ruby red color with notes of red fruits and spices in the nose. Soft with balanced acidity and aromatic highlights. A clean, enduring finish.
Hirsch San Andreas Fault Pinot Noir (375ML half-bottle) 2014
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
91
The San Andreas Fault is Hirsch Vineyards’ signature Pinot Noir and is crafted to represent the entirety of this multifaceted vineyard. The 2014 San Andreas Fault has fruit from more than 30 of Hirsch's 61 distinct farming blocks, more than any other wine made from the Hirsch Vineyard. It is the flagship wine from Hirsch, and the wine that represents the summation of this complex vineyard.
Domaine Henri Gouges Nuits-St-Georges Clos des Porrets St. Georges Premier Cru 2012
Burgundy, France
Red Wine
93
This Premier Cru - exclusive to the Gouges domain with its 3.5 hectare vineyard - perfectly expresses the full character of Nuitonne Cote wines and their alignment of vines hanging onto the sloping hills : very subtle wines, developing beautiful aromatic qualities.
Anthonij Rupert Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Franschhoek Valley, South Africa
Red Wine
92
Deep purple. Rich, spicy fruitcake, cedar and tobacco leaf abundance on the nose. Complex and generous. There's more of the same in the mouth with a generous abundance of black cherry, nutmeg, clove and cedar spice. Svelte and poised, the wine is superbly elegant with the oak and fruit beautifully integrated.
Domaine Michelot Meursault Perrieres Premier Cru 2015
Meursault, Cote de Beaune, Cote d'Or, Burgundy, France
White Wine
93
This wine is made from two parcels which are found on the border of the communes of Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet. The first, which is to the left of the Clos des Perrières, has clay/limestone soil and a subsoil of volcanic rock which allows a healthy root system to develop in this limestone-rich environment. The second is on the upper slope and overlooks the Perrières quarry. Here the soil is heavily limestone, partly as marl and partly as white rock. This is interesting for the way it brings mineral notes to the wine.
Iron Horse Estate Chardonnay 2003
Russian River, Sonoma County, California
White Wine
91
2003 is a excellent vintage in terms of quality and flavor intensity. It is also a special anniversary vintage, marking our 25th year of making Estate Chardonnay at Iron Horse. It beautifully expresses the bright, focused, clean, sweet-tart flavors of cool, foggy Green Valley. It is beautifully balanced, imparting a delightful "leesy", toasty, perfectly integrated barrel character that doesn't overwhelm the fruit. The texture is soft, smooth, silky and sensuous. The finish, long and lingering.
Goldeneye Anderson Valley Pinot Noir (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2002
Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California
Red Wine
93
This is a well-balanced wine with a lush entry, velvety mouthfeel, bright acidity, well-structured tannins, and a lingering finish. The aroma is rich with plum and black cherry mingled with smoked bacon, anise, earth, and caramel. The flavors are ripe with strawberry and cherry followed by toasted oak, clove, and vanilla.
CARO 2002
Argentina
Red Wine
90
A wine with intense ripe red and blackberry fruit, perfectly integrated with the French oak. Good elegant tannins hold the aromas to the long end.
Chateau Mouton Rothschild 1985
Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
90
The wine has an attractive, intense ruby color with a red-orange tint and a nose of considerable aromatic intensity on which lovely jammy fruit (blackberry, bilberry, blackcurrant) mingles with notes of vanilla, incense, cinnamon and roast coffee. Round and smooth on the attack, it asserts a fine texture over nicely rounded, well-integrated tannins, developing a stylish mid-palate on toasted, roasted notes of caramel, biscuit, spice and chocolate. The powerful finish, lush, long and full, reveals all the generosity, elegance and balance of this very fine vintage.
Chateau de Bligny Clos du Chateau 6 Cepages
Champagne, France
Sparkling & Champagne
90
A harmonious blend of the 6 Champagne grape varieties, this Clos du Chateau has a delicate, scented nose. It is well-structured, powerful and lively on the palate, with dominant mineral flavors. "Cuvee 6 Cepages" is a very full wine with superb length.
J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
95
Beck Vineyard, in the Creston District of Paso Robles, is a unique site. It sits at 1,700 feet above the early morning fog. Its calcareous soils and cooling afternoon winds are perfect for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet from this vineyard ripens early with excellent color, purity of fruit, and phenolic maturity. Malbec is an ideal addition to the blend, as it complements the fruit component of the savory '15 Cabernet Sauvignon. It also supplies a gain in color without adding more tannins.
Artesa Napa Merlot 1999
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
88
This wine offers a wealth of ripe black cherry and plum aromas with mouthwatering hints of warm roasted grain and fresh mint in the background. There is a lovely interplay of cherries, plums and creamy vanilla on the palate, and the long finish is balanced, complex and juicy.
Gaja Sori Tildin 2009
Piedmont, Italy
Red Wine
93
Deep purple in color, with complex aromas of toast, minerals, sour cherries, cedar and spices. This wine dispalys the roundest tasting profile of all Gaja single-vineyard wines. The rich body, subtle texture and fine, ripe tannins are typical for this wine of great finesse, the quintessential expression of the land and the Nebbiolo grape. This wine has extraordinary aging potential--more than forty years in outstanding vintages.
Eyrie Estate Chardonnay 2017
Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
White Wine
92
The Chardonnay estate is a barrel selection. Since each barrel ferments with its own yeast and ages at its own rate, each barrel becomes very distinct. Before bottling, the winemaker tastes each barrel. Those barrels which speak to the longest aging potential become the Original Vines Reserve. This estate, on the other hand, is blended from those barrels which offer the most immediate pleasure.
Hermann J. Wiemer Dry Riesling Reserve 2015
Finger Lakes, New York, Other U.S.
White Wine
91
The finest qualities of the estate are expressed in their Reserve Dry Riesling, an exclusive wine spotlighting unique characteristics from all three of our vineyard sites. Small selections of grapes are meticulously chosen from specifically identified lots, which are fermented separately and then blended to create the exquisite balance of juiciness, freshness, and minerality displayed in this specialty bottling. A brilliant, tangy nose heralds a burst of stone fruit and citrus zest on the palate. Fruit and minerality play into a lingering finish that continues to make the mouth water long after the wine is gone.
Elyse Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel 2012
Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
91
This 2012 bottling is dark crimson red in color with vibrant aromas of crushed berries, violets, mint and cinnamon. The palate is complex and layered with flavors of briary red and black fruit, boysenberry, smoked bacon, wild herbs, plum and a surprising hint of minerality. This wine shows great finesse with rich yet buoyant fruit and terrific overall balance. Classic Morisoli!
Lake Sonoma Winery Russian River Chardonnay 2013
Russian River, Sonoma County, California
White Wine
90
Its cool climate, sculpted by the regular intrusion of Pacific Coast fog that ebbs and flows through the Petaluma Wind Gap and up the Russian River, makes Russian River Valley one of the world’s most celebrated Chardonnay growing regions. This natural air-conditioning allows Lake Sonoma's Chardonnay grapes to develop full flavor over an extended growing season while retaining their life-giving natural acidity. The result is a Chardonnay of both character and depth.
Fattoria Le Pupille Elisabetta Geppetti Saffredi 1995
Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
90
Saffredi is born in 1987 from the vineyard planted around Magliano 7 years before, by Elisabetta’s mentor, Fredi, and his dear friend Giacomo Tachis. Fredi was never able to taste the fruits of his vineyard, for this Elisabetta decided to dedicate this wine to the grandfather of her daughters. After its release, Saffredi becomes very quickly the legend it still is today.
Domaine Laroche Chablis Les Fourchaumes Premier Cru Vieilles Vignes 2016
Chablis, Burgundy, France
White Wine
90
This wine is racy, elegant with intense minerality. It has a beautiful structure with delicate notes of white blossom and orchard fruit.
Carmel Limited Edition (OU Kosher) 2014
Israel
Red Wine
90
The wine displays a deep purplish hue and is characterized by a hint of ripe plum, cassis, violets mint and cigar boxes. Full-bodied and rich, with a long and balanced finish. The wine is ready to enjoy, but will continue to mature in the bottle in the coming years. The character of the wine reflects the "old wine" style of winemaking which is expressed in the balance between fruit, tannins and acidity.
Cono Sur 20 Barrel Pinot Noir 2007
Chile
Red Wine
88
Deep, dark and concentrated ruby red in color. Aromas of amazing finesse and complexity, with notes of cherries, strawberries, raspberries and plum with hints of leather. The palate shows intenxe sweet fruit, balancing elegance, rich texture and concentrated flavor. A long, soft finish.
Gaja Rennina Brunello di Montalcino 2008
Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
91
The designation Rennina (rehn-NEE-nah) first appears in the High Middle Ages and is derived from the late-Roman name of the estate, Fundus Rescianum, denoting a state-owned farm. Since the Gaja family's acquisition of the historic estate in 1994, three growing sites have been devoted to the cultivation of Sangiovese grapes for the production of Brunello di Montalcino: Santo Pietro (St. Peter), Castagno (Chestnut Tree), and Pian dei Cerri (Turkish Oak Flats). Here, lime-rich subsoils, southwest exposure, and ventilation arriving from the Tyrrhenian sea to the west deliver well-balanced Brunello di Montalcino, defined by its characteristic red fruit notes, minerality, and polished tannins.
Hacienda Araucano Syrah 2009
Chile
Red Wine
90
Great depth of color with various shades of purple. A spicy wine, showing aromas of white pepper, liquorice and black cherry. A supple, elegant and long wine, the spices found on the nose linger on in the form of retronasal sensations. A real cool-climate Syrah.
Barco de Piedra Tempranillo 2012
Ribera del Duero, Spain
Red Wine
90
The grape's thick skin naturally produces powerful, robust wines packed with flavor. Adding more power and oak to something already powerful is overkill. The three parcels that produce Barco de Piedra are located on the hillside of the Quiñón Estate. Raspberry and violet aromas with rose petal, blueberry and mineral notes make this wine. Barco de Piedra is one of the prettiest examples of the elegance and structure of Ribera del Duero, one of the great wine regions of the world.
Conundrum White Blend 2007
California
White Wine
88
Our wine's core profile remains thoroughly Californian, with Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the Napa Valley, Muscat Canelli from Tulare county on the Central Coast, and Chardonnay and Viognier from our vineyards in Monterey County. The "puzzle" of Conundrum lies partly in guessing the range of grape varieties we use, because we never reveal its exact composition.
Chateau Clinet 2009
Pomerol, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
92
Blend: 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc
Gaston Chiquet Rose
Champagne, France
Sparkling & Champagne
90
Luminous pink-orange hue. Fine mousse. Nose of ripe red fruit, black cherry, strawberry. Smooth and fresh palate (Meunier), red fruit, blackberry, cherry, finesse of Chardonnay (one-third), hint of lemon in the finish.
Colgin IX Estate Red 2016
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
97
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, IX Estate Red is distinguished by complex fruit interplays, a luscious nose of rustic herbs, iron, clay and black fruits, huge layers of flavor and supple, sweet tannins impeccably well-balanced. The number IX refers to the parcel number and is also significant as the date Ann and Joe were married: 9/9. The 2002 vintage was the first, of four vintages, from this property to achieve the highest accolade of “a perfect wine”. Each year the blend displays extraordinary intensity, a beautiful purity, and a remarkably long finish. Approachable when young, it ages most gracefully.
L'Ecole 41 Chardonnay 2005
Columbia Valley, Washington
White Wine
90
"Some of the best Chardonnays in Washington State are grown in the slightly cooler growing conditions of Yakima Valley and in the northern latitudes of the Columbia Valley. Fair Acre Vineyard (Yakima Valley) provides ripe tropical fruit, while Evergreen (latitude 47 on the Columbia River) contributes crisp acidity and minerality. The old vines at the warmer Sagemoor Vineyard provide a nuance of ripe melon and pear on this Burgundian style Chardonnay."
Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Walla Walla Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington
Red Wine
92
A beautifully dark and saturated color that leads in to aromatics of raspberry, blackberry cobbler and cocoa powder. Digging deeper reveals sage brush, menthol and rosemary that evolves and opens with grace over time — a completely entrancing wine. A large mouthfeel of dark fruit, dark chocolate and enticing length with perfect acidity for balance. Incredibly rich and lush, this wine is complex, ridiculously layered, and will age for years to come.
Chateau Beychevelle (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2016
St-Julien, Bordeaux, France
Red Wine
93
Blend: 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Argiolas S'elegas 2005
Sardinia, Italy
White Wine
90
Pale yellow color, with a fruity bouquet. Full bodied and rich with a lingering aftertaste that is characteristic of Nuragus. Made from 100% Nuragus.
Finca Perdriel Coleccion Malbec 2010
Argentina
Red Wine
90
Perdriel Coleccion Malbec is an intense red color. Complex aromas of ripe fruits, plums and cherry with spice notes. Concentrated and mouth filling. Persistent finish.
Diamond Creek Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2014
Diamond Mountain District, Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
92
Diamond Creek's second coolest micro-climate is the five-acre Gravelly Meadow vineyard. Originally a pre-historic river bed, this stony, gravelly soil drains rapidly and the vines struggle for moisture.
Domaine de la Romanee-Conti La Tache Grand Cru 2003
Burgundy, France
Red Wine
99
La Tâche is elegance and rigor. Beneath the frequent hardness of its tannins, passion is aflame, restrained by an implacable, courtly elegance.
Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
87
A very bold and complex wine that is still elegant and polished. The fragrant rose petal, violet and pencil lead aromas lead into dimensions of plum, wild berry, currant, black olive and spice. Dense shadings of cedar and fresh earth flavors finish with pretty, mocha-scented oak. The tannins are firm, yet balanced, for years of potential enjoyment.
Kistler Vineyards Stone Flat Vineyard Chardonnay 2010
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California
White Wine
94
Stone Flat Vineyard produces a wine that strikes an impeccable balance between its minerality, its fruit reminiscent core and it's silken, persistent finish.
Juve Y Camps Milesime Brut 2015
Penedes, Spain
Sparkling & Champagne
90
Milesimé is made only in exceptional vintages. This single-vineyard Reserva Cava is made entirely from the free run juice of Chardonnay grapes, sourced from their oldest estate vineyard, Espiells. This vineyard is located in the heart of Cava territory, San Sadurni d’Anoia, and is considered one of the finest vineyard sites in the Penedès due to its higher elevation, resulting in sparkling wines of exceptional balance and complexity.
Brewer-Clifton Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2013
Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
92
Pomegranate, anise, and Pu-erh tea aromatics set the stage for the flavors of dried cherries, dried wild mushroom and baker's cocoa flavors that follow. Tender and cohesive in the mouth with a very firm and savory palate impression and finish.
Canvasback Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Red Mountain, Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington
Red Wine
90
Alluring aromas of blueberry, black cherry, plum and licorice rise from the glass supported by earthy minerality and hints of dry desert sage. While the entry is rich and juicy, the wine reveals its full structure and intensity on the mid-palate, where firm, fine-grained tannins support layers of lush fruit and earth, as well as notes of savory herbs and exotic spices.
Aveleda Vinho Verde 2011
Vinho Verde, Portugal
White Wine
90
A harmonious wine in which the floral aromas of the Loureiro grape variety are merged to perfection with the tropical notes of the Alvarinho. The result is a complex, elegant wine with a long, persistent after-taste in the mouth.
Ken Brown Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2015
Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
92
This wine is a superb representation of Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir featuring vibrant fruit aromatics and an intensely rich profile. Expressive aromas of black raspberry, cranberry and seashell are highlighted by hints of rose petal and pink peppercorn. On the palate, intense dark cherry and spice components give way to a velvety mid-palate and lush, lingering finish. The wine’s plush tannins and balanced acid profile suggest this Pinot Noir is poised to age gracefully for years to come.
Dashe Dry Creek Zinfandel (375ML half-bottle) 2012
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
88
Dark black-purple in color. This wine has an extremely aromatic bouquet of black raspberry, cassis, and chocolate overtones, with an underlying floral component of lavender and violets. Great balance of fruit with firm acidity, making for a great velvety yet structured wine. An intense Dry Creek zinfandel, with dark chocolate and black pepper spice underlying the higher-toned fruits.
Bodegas Valdemar Conde de Valdemar Crianza 2009
Rioja, Spain
Red Wine
89
The 2009 Conde Valdemar Crianza is ruby red in color with ripe fruit aromas of plum and cherry. In the mouth, it has fresh raspberry integrated with spicy oak and vanilla flavors.
Bodega Norton Privada 2009
Argentina
Red Wine
91
Bodega Norton Privada is a ruby red color of remarkable intensity. This wine has excellent aromatic complexity with notes of ripe fruit and a fine touch of smoke and coffee. It's rich on the palate with an excellent concentration.
Amici Olema Pinot Noir 2019
Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
89
A quintessential Pinot Noir, the 2019 is true to its varietal character with ripe cherry, raspberry and rose petal notes accompanied by garnet and bountiful spice characters through the nose. The fruit aromas carry into the velvety mouthfeel with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. A medium-bodied wine with lively, bright flavors, soft tannins, and a silky-smooth finish.
Bridgeview Blue Moon Chardonnay 1998
Rogue Valley, Oregon
White Wine
85
Showcases ripe citrus aromas with French oak accents from barrel fermentation.